Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

              There was a legend. One of the stars. Of the Universe. Of the Sun. It was said that once upon a time, the Goddess of the Stars had become bored. Tired. She felt empty in a way she couldn’t describe. Longing for something that she didn’t know. She tried everything. Making new comets, new stars, even the occasional meteor shower that humans would look at in awe at didn’t seem to help her longing feeling. So, she watched. She watched each human interaction, each animal killed, each tree grow. Then, she saw something.

                Children. Nothing new at all, yet, something caught her eye. How children were born were somewhat disgusting, sure, but afterwards, something beautiful is created. And she didn’t seem to understand it, but the look in the mother’s eyes were filled with utter adoration for the life she created. And then a thought.

                ‘What if I had a child?’

                After blessings from other Gods and Goddesses, she quickly got to work, she molded the stars to take form, to become the thing to stop her longing. All the stars and constellations glistened in excitement, shone so brightly for the boy that was being made, that even the Sun came around, offering its energy to the boy. Soon, he opened his eyes for the first time, and the Goddess understood the look in that mother’s eyes. Understood the absolute loving feeling for this little child she had created. Her little Sunshine. Her baby boy.

                The child lived among the stars, running along, creating new constellations, helping his mother with the moon and the sun, himself just a ball of energy, both metaphorically and physically. Though, his favorite past time was watching the world below, watching the humans down on the Earth. Though he might’ve been the reason for the occasion asteroid or meteor falling into the Earth, he really did love the place, he marveled at how the creatures of it could survive and run and do whatever their hearts desired. When the boy was physically 10 to the human eye, he asked to go down to Earth.

                “Are you sure darling? I won’t be able to protect you there...” The Goddess voiced her concerns. The boy only beamed. “I’m sure mum! I’m a big man you know!” She laughed, ruffling his shining blond hair. “Ah yes. Of course you are, dear. However, I’m worried. Humans may seem nice, but they can be cruel to those not of their kind...and you’ll be all alone there...” The blond  thought for a moment. “Well then, I can act like a human! No power or anything.” The Goddess’s worry seemed to deepen for a moment, before an idea sprouted.

She brought out her hand, the stars rushing to become what she needed, a small necklace, the main jewel in the shape of a Nether Star. She put the necklace around the boy’s neck, he looked at it in awe. “What’s this??” He asked. She smiled. “A way back home. Think of it as like one of those communicators humans use. Just grab the star and you’ll be able to talk to me. And if the need may arise I will answer and bring you home. Whenever you desire, little one.” A small ‘ohhh’ left the boy, before the realization hit him, his energy seemingly on full as he jumped excitedly. “Does this mean I get to go to Earth?!” She only nodded, a cheer coming from her child. “Are you ready, sunshine?” He nodded.

And from then on, the child of the stars roamed the Earth, being said to give blessings to those who do him right. Being a light for those who need it. And being one of the brightest beings in the universe.

                ---

                Shit, shit, SHIT! Tommy thought, running through the town, trying to outrun the man behind him. “Get back here you little fuckin thief!” The man yelled. “Fuck off! It’s not my fault you weren’t paying attention and got pickpocketed by a 13-year-old!” He yelled back. Okay maybe it wasn’t a good idea to tell this guy chasing him his human age. The man hesitated, momentarily caught off guard. Okay, never mind, it was great idea. He looked back at the man who was now falling behind. He laughed, hell yeah, he was almost home, he just needed to- Tommy slammed into someone, falling backwards. “Ow! What the fuck-“ He looked up at the guy he had bumped into.

                Brown eyes stared down at him in shock underneath the wild brown hair that was semi-contained in the beanie on his head. He wore a yellow sweater, a brown coat over it. The man put out his hand, fingerless gloves out to help him. “Sorry- you okay kid?” Tommy was about to reach for his hand, then smacked it away. “’m not a fuckin kid. I’m a big man.” He said, getting up, on his own, might he add. Brown eyes looked at him questioningly, an ‘mhm’ was all he said. He really wasn’t. He was older than most humans. Tommy was about to defend his manliness again, when the guy caught up with him.

“You little shit!” He yelled, making Tommy jump. Tommy hid behind the man he’d just bumped into. “I fucking saw you, don’t you try hiding now!” He yelled. “Woah uh- let’s all calm down here-“ the brunet said, trying to deescalate the situation, seeing as the blond had forced him into it. “What seems to be the problem here?” He tried. “That fuck stole my shit!” The man yelled. The brunet looked back at Tommy, Tommy letting out a nervous laugh. “Kid. Give the man back his money.” The brunet said in a soft, yet warning voice. Tommy stared between the two of them for a minute. He could outrun them, sure, but he didn’t wanna seem suspicious with his amount of energy, and the guy that was chasing him was so out of breath and sweating. Gross. He also couldn’t tell how fast the brunet was, so Tommy groaned and held out the stuff, to which the man snatched it up instantly, grumbling profanities under his breath as he left.

“I needed that, you prick.” He said to the brunet, who looked down at him. “That doesn’t justify stealing.” He said. Tommy glared at him dead in the eyes for a moment, before turning and walking away. “Whatever.” “Wait-“ The brunet followed the kid.

“How old are you? Where are your parents, huh?” He asked, worried. Tommy looked over at him. ‘Humans don’t like those that aren’t their own kind.’ Tommy scoffed. They don’t like their own kind either. He felt his shirt until he felt the star, sure of its safety. “I’m 16.” He said. The brunet didn’t look amused. “Yeahhh, not believing that.”

“15?”

 “Nope.”

 “14...?”

 “Kid.”

“Not a kid....13.”

 “Name?”

Tommy glared over at him. “What are you, the police now? Huh? Gonna arrest me and call my parents?” The brunet simply rolled his eyes. “No, I just don’t want to hear you whining each time I call you kid because I don’t know your damn name.” Oh. That made sense. “Oh. Tommy.” He said. “You?” He looked up at the man. “Wilbur. Nice to meet you Tommy.” He smiled as they stopped for a moment. It was almost sunset. Fuck, had he been out that long? “Yeah sure.” He grumbled. Wilbur decided to cut straight to the point.

“Tommy, where’s your parents?” Tommy also decided to be short about it.

“Don’t have none.” Wilbur’s face changed to one of worry. “I- Wait what?”

“You heard me.” The sun was starting to set.

“So where have you been staying?” The blue of the day started darkening into a pink and purple hue.

“Wherever really. Doesn’t matter.” The orange started to bleed in, signaling for the sun to start it’s disappearing act.

“Tommy, it does matter, you’re a kid who’s been living on his own. You shouldn’t have to take care of yourself like that.” Tommy only let out a hum. He’s taken care of himself for millennium of years. At least in the human’s eyes he had. For him it only felt like a short time. 3 years at most. It's why he said he was 13. The sun listens accordingly, following the sky’s guidance down.

“Tommy, how about you come with me?” The simple question asked nearly caused whiplash to the star child. Tommy snapped his attention towards Wilbur, who in turn looked back. “What?”

“I want you to come with me. You wouldn’t have to live on the streets, and I’m sure my son would appreciate the company, seeing as his Uncle and Grandpa don’t bother to be around.” There was a bit of bitterness in his voice, but Tommy was too focused on the offer at hand. “So, what do you say Tommy?” Tommy looked back at the sky. The sun was nearly down, the stars almost pushing it at the chance to be in the sky, and it did go down, but not without one last beautiful view. Yes, dusk was always one of Tommy’s favorite times of day. “Okay. Let’s go.” He said, voice nearly a whisper. Wilbur smiled.

“Follow me.” 

Chapter Text

              As they approached the house, a small orange figure seemed to jump up from its spot at the window, darting towards the door. “Dad!” The figure said, slamming the door open and dashing towards Wilbur. Wilbur seemed to share the same amount of excitement, quickly wrapping his arms around what Tommy could now see to be a fox hybrid. “Fundy!” Wilbur said. “I’m sorry I was gone for so long, I had something to deal with.” Wilbur said, looking up at Tommy. Fundy followed his father’s eyes to Tommy, look in awe at the taller boy. “Who’re you?” Fundy asked, tilting his head. Wilbur jumped up to introduce him. “Fundy, this is Tommy. Tommy, this is my son Fundy. Tommy’s going to be staying with us.” Wilbur said. Tommy only nodded.

              Wilbur led them both inside, Tommy taking note of the inside. It was a cabin, not very big, but big enough to surprise you. A kitchen to the right, a small living room type area to the left and a dining room and bathroom just past the kitchen. There was a set of stairs, which Tommy assumed led to the bedrooms. Wilbur directed them towards the couch by the fireplace. “Here, sit, I’ll make dinner real quick.” He said, letting the two settle before leaving to cook.

               Fundy looked over at him. “How old are you?” “13.” Tommy replied shortly, watching the hybrid look at him in surprise. “You’re only 3 years older than me! Why are you so tall??” He asked, getting a small laugh out of Tommy. “Because I’m a big man.” “A big man?” “Mhm. The biggest.” “Hmmmm, no I’d say dad is bigger than you.” Fundy said, letting out a snicker as Tommy glared over at him. “I’ll have you know, I could kick his ass in a fight.” Tommy said, more jokingly than anything. Fundy looked over at him with skepticism, a drawn out ‘sure’ leaving his mouth. “I could!” Tommy yelled. Wilbur peeked over at them from the kitchen. “What are you two fighting about??”

              “Furry boy here says I can’t beat you in a fight, when I clearly can!” “I’m not a furry!” The hybrid defends. “Oh gods.” Wilbur laughed. “Toms, there’s no way you could beat me in a fight. Though, unless you’ve been fighting for a while- which would be concerning.” The nickname caught Tommy off guard for a moment. “I- Well I know how to fight well enough!” He said. It was true, he knew how to fight, mostly because he was forced to. Though there was that one time...he shook the thought off. He didn’t wanna rely on his powers, though he did when he had to. He didn’t want to have to call his mother to help him. He was a big man.

                “Mhm.” Wilbur said, handing the boys the food he’d prepared, laughing when Tommy scarfed it down. “Hungry?” He asked through his laughs, Tommy’s cheeks becoming red. “Well I mean, yeah, I guess-“ Tommy said, looking down at his lap. “You can have more if you want.” Wilbur said, motioning to the kitchen. Tommy shook his head. “I’m fine.” Wilbur took that as an answer and started eating himself.

                 After dinner, Wilbur showed him around each room, glancing back every now and then to make sure Tommy understood what was being said. Eventually they got to the final bedroom. It was a very clean room, however very plain. A desk sat in one corner while a plain white bed sat by the window, a bookshelf separating the two objects. Upon further inspection, most of the books in there were Greek Mythology, one with the more worn down outside being the story of Theseus. Tommy had read it before. He didn’t like it. Inaccurate, to say the least. “This is your room.” Wilbur said with a smile, though there was some deviousness to it. “This used to be Techno’s room, but the fucker hasn’t been here in a while, so go wild with it. I already took up Phil’s old room so Fundy could have a room of his own.” He said. Ah. Tommy got it now. Tommy laughed. “Will do, big man.” Wilbur’s grin got wider with that. “Hell yeah. Okay. I’m gonna go, I’ll be in my room. Call if you need anything.” Tommy nodded, and Wilbur left.

                 He seems nice.

                 New father?

                 No! He doesn’t have a father!

                 The child can have an earthly father if he wants.

                 He has a brother too!

                 New family pog.

                 Ah. There they were. The stars. At night when they shone more brightly, he could hear the stars voices. He could hear them sometimes in the day, but they weren’t as loud as they were at night. It was something Gods could hear. The voices of the life they create. Wait. Was Tommy a god? He didn’t feel like one. No, being a God was his mother’s job. Speaking of which.

                Clara!

                Don’t fall, I’d feel bad.

                Do a flip.

                Don’t say that to a child!

                Tommy sighed as he climbed out the window, onto the roof. He did this nightly. It was a sort of routine. He would go out into the embrace of the sky, clutch his necklace and tell his mother how his day went. She rarely answered, but it brought comfort to him. To know that she could hear him and that she could help him if he ever needed it.

                “Hey mum.” He said as he softly touched the star on the necklace. “I guess you could say I made some friends today. There was a guy named Wilbur and he took me in after I got caught stealing...I returned it. Don’t worry.” He laughed. “But...the guy took me in. Probably won’t keep me for long. It’s the thought the counts I guess. That’s what you always said, right? Oh yeah. He has a kid of his own. Fox hybrid. Name’s Fundy.” Tommy was now swinging his legs off the roof, unworried of falling. “He doesn’t think I could win a fight against Wilbur, the furry does. I totally could.” He hears a faint, soft laughter. The stars seem to flicker in happiness. Tommy smiles.

                 Don’t try to fight people, child. You know how that went the times before.  

                Of course, he’d be able to win a fight, he’s Clara’s son!

                Mortals underestimate you.

                “That’s the point- I wanna be seen as a mortal. I’ve seen how they look at Gods. Some pray, some hate.” Tommy thought for a moment. “Most hate. Humans are very hateful.”

                That’s why you should’ve stayed.

                Humans are so unappreciative!

                At least some of them are nice...

                I say we kill them all. Restart.

                Giant meteorite.

                What?! No! That’d hurt the child too!

                Clara can bring him up.

                “Guys please- no- I’m having fun here.” He said. “And besides, no one’s figured out who I am yet. I’ll be fine.” A voice cut through the rest, his necklace shone.
                “It is late, sunshine. You should sleep. I know how much you love that past time.” Tommy nodded, a soft smile on his face. “Good night my dear. Me and stars will be here to greet you tomorrow.”

                “I love you mum.” Tommy said.

                “I love you too, darling.” And with that he let go of the necklace, stuffing it back into its safe spot under his shirt as he climbed back down into the room and got under the covers. He sighed, looking over at the stars, letting their soft voices lull him to sleep. 

Chapter Text

               Tommy woke up to a knock on his door, followed by a child’s voice saying his name. Tommy didn’t want to open his eyes if he was completely honest. The bed was probably the most comfortable one he’s ever slept in.

                “Dad told me to wake you up.” Tommy jumped, screaming out a string of curses. Fundy laughed. “You should see your face! You look so scared!” He said between giggles. Tommy sighed, settling back down. “You are an arsehole, you hear me? You. Child. Arsehole.” Fundy only flashed him a smile. “Breakfast is ready.” He said before leaving the room, still giggling at his successful jump scare. Tommy sat there for a moment before groaning and pulling himself out of bed, heading downstairs.

                It was a nice sight to see. Fundy sitting at the table, swinging his legs back and forth as Wilbur set out plates of food. It felt welcoming. Homely in a way. Wilbur looked up at Tommy and smiled. “Tommy! Glad you could join us.” Tommy gave a hum in response, going over and sitting down. “How’d you sleep?” He asked, sitting down.

                “Great, actually.” Wilbur smiled. “I’m glad. I was worried that the bed wouldn’t be as comfy because of how long it’s been since someone’s used it.” Tommy nodded in understanding. “By the way- you told me it was Techno’s room- who is Techno anyways?” Wilbur had given him a name, but no understanding of who it was. Same with Phil. Wilbur looked confused for a moment before figuring something out. “Ah- Sorry, I totally forgot about that. Technoblade is my brother. Philza is my father.” Oh okay...Wait. “Wait, the Blade and Philza Minecraft are your family??” Tommy asked in surprise. Wilbur nodded. “Holy shit!” He exclaimed. Technoblade was a proclaimed ‘Blood God’, who fought whoever stood in his way, said to leave a trail of blood wherever he went. Also hates orphans according to parents who don’t want their kid running off or anything. And Philza? Philza was just cool as fuck. The ‘Angel of Death.’ Tommy had admired the man as soon as he heard about him.

                “You’ve talked to them? Seen them? I didn’t know the Blood God had a brother! Or that Philza had any kids- holy hell, this is so cool!” Wilbur laughed. “I see you’ve heard of them before.” Tommy nodded. “I mean, I heard adults say stuff about the Blood God all the time- usually scare kids into listening. And Philza’s just poggers.” “Ehh, I wouldn’t say that.” Wilbur grumbled. “What do you mean??” Tommy asked. Wilbur sighed. “Well. It’s not really that big of a deal anymore, but- Techno and Phil were constantly out on adventures, leaving me behind, only coming back every now and then. They’re gone for good now, but...They missed a lot, basically. I can’t really be mad at Techno though. He had the voices to deal with.” Tommy was intrigued by this. “Voices?” Wilbur looked over at Tommy.

“Yeahhh, it was something he has to deal with, my poor brother. Apparently in some piglin hybrids they hear voices, I don't but that's-“ “No they don’t.” Wilbur stared at him for a moment. “What?” “Piglins don’t hear voices. It’s impossible. Unless...” Tommy thought for a moment. Had the God of the Nether cursed their creation to such a fate? No, they couldn’t have. It’s not possible. Is it? He couldn't ask either, his existence was only known by a few gods and goddesses. Tommy shook his head. “Don’t worry about it. Go ahead-” Wilbur stared at him for a minute longer before continuing.

“Okay...Anyways. He had voices, yeah? And they got real violent sometimes. Made him black out in a way. Made him attack anything and everything. He couldn’t control it. So, Phil took him out to try to help him. At first, they came back every few days, just leaving whenever the voices got bad enough. But then they went out more and more, and eventually...” Wilbur looked towards the door, a look of longing on his face. “They just didn’t come back.” Silence filled the room. Fundy and Tommy looked at each other, not really sure what to do. Suddenly, Wilbur stood up, slamming his hands on the table.

                “Welp! Their loss. Anyways, you two done? I’ll take the dishes.” He grabbed them up, walking into the kitchen. Tommy hesitantly got up, Fundy already running off, probably to go play or something. Tommy, unaware of what to do, walks into the kitchen after Wilbur. Wilbur is leaning against the sink, burying his face into his hands, the dishes patiently sitting in the sink. “Wil?” He asks quietly. Wilbur snaps his head towards Tommy. “Oh- Tommy. Hey.” He said just as quietly before clearing his throat. “What do you need?” Tommy walked towards the sink, shrugging.

                “Just thought you’d appreciate some company from big T.” Tommy said proudly. Wilbur laughed a bit. “Yeahhh...Thank you Tommy.” Tommy nodded. “I uh- I’m not good with emotional shit, but- I know what it’s like to miss someone...so...Don’t worry. You’re not alone there.” Wilbur scoffed. “I don’t miss them, I just...wish they’d been around for more, is all.” Tommy stared at him. “You miss them.” “I do not.” “Wil, you’re in denial.” “I am not!” “Don’t worry, you’ll get through all the stages of grief soon enough- it’s okay-“ “I’m not grieving anything!” They stared at each other for a minute before both began to laugh at the absurdity of the situation.

“No, but seriously Wil. I get the feeling.” Wilbur gave him a questioning look. “You’re a child, who could you possibly miss, huh?” “I’m not a child. And my mother.” Wilbur’s face gave away his surprise. “Didn’t you say you didn’t have any parents?” Tommy scoffed. “Just because she isn’t around doesn’t mean I can’t miss her.” “Does that mean she abandoned you?” Tommy gave him a sharp glare. “Don’t you dare say that. She would never. Not ever.” Wilbur put up his hands in surrender. “Sorry, sorry- my bad. Didn’t mean it.” Tommy looked down at the counter. “I just...she’s not able to be here.” He held the necklace, using it as a comfort item of sorts, making sure not to touch the star as to not bother his mother in the sky. “Like how the Blade and Philza aren’t here. Except it’s involuntary-“ “Is she dead, Tommy?” Damn, the bluntness of this guy. Tommy guesses he’ll have to lie here.

                Tommy merely nods. Wilbur let out a sad ‘oh’, before going and actually starting the dishes. Tommy thought for a moment before asking his next question. “Uh...Wil....does Technoblade actually kill orphans?” Wilbur sputtered before looking down at him. “W-What did you say?” He asked, smile on his face. “I asked if Technoblade actually hates orphans- cause uh- if so, I’m kinda fucked here-“ Wilbur let out a loud laugh, finding it hilarious that his twin brother had gotten himself such a reputation. “This is a very serious question, Wilbur, I don’t know why you’re laughing.”

                Wilbur talked through laughs. “No- No Tommy- Techno doesn’t hate orphans-“ He calms himself down, sighing. “Actually, he’s an orphan himself. Or was. We both were.” Tommy stared at him with wide eyes, before processing it and settling for an unimpressed look. “Wow. I am both reassured and mildly disappointed.” Wilbur snorted, shaking his head. Of course. “I think we’re gonna get along.” Tommy gave him a grin. “Kid.” Wilbur added, earning a smack to the arm by Tommy. “Oi! I’m not a kid, dickhead!”

“You’re just a little baby-“

 “Oh, shut up!”

“13? More like just out of the womb!”

“You prick! You’re just old! And bald!”

“Wha- I am not bald!”

“You’re in deep denial Wilbur-“

“I am not-“

“Old and senile and bald. Poor Wilbur.”

“You absolute child!”

“OI!”

---

                The rest of the day was spent with Tommy learning how the home operates, playing with Fundy, memorizing the layout. For exits of course. Tommy wasn’t actually considering staying here...right? That night he climbed onto the roof once more.

                Star child!

                Why are you so excited, he’s here every night.

                He’s one of us.

                We’ll always be excited to see star child.

                Tommy faintly smiled. The stars were always so supportive, mostly on his mother’s command. Still, it’s nice. After a long day of getting chased around and called names, the stars were a friendly constant that he would always welcome. He pulled out his necklace.

                “What’re you doing up here?” Fundy asked. Tommy jumped once again, almost falling off the roof. “What the fuck?! How- when-“ Fundy laughed. “You weren’t paying attention, so I climbed up here.” Tommy let out a sigh. “What do you want.” He said plainly. “What’re you doing up here?” Fundy repeated, looking up at Tommy expectantly. Tommy hesitated before answering.

                “I’m looking at the stars.”

                “Looking at the stars?”

                “Mhm.”

                “Why?”

                “Because they’re pretty.”

                “Why?”

                “Because they just are.”

                “Why?”

                “Fundy, I am not above shoving you off this roof.”

                A snicker was heard from the smaller. “Okay, okay, I’m sorry- but why are you looking at the stars on the roof?” Tommy paused, then tightened his grip around the necklace. Fundy seemed to notice the glimmer of the star-shaped necklace. “What’s that?”

                “What’s what?”

                “That!” Fundy pointed to the necklace.

                “Oh um...well, it was my mum’s. She gave it to me.”

                “Your mom?” Tommy nodded.

                “I thought you said you didn’t have any parents!”

                “I don’t...” At least not Earth ones. Tommy thought. “Mum, uh- she isn’t here anymore.”

                Fundy thought for a minute before seeming to understand what Tommy had said. “Oh...I’m sorry.” “Don’t be. It was awhile ago.” Fundy sat there for a minute.

                “So, did you have a dad?” Tommy let out a small laugh.

                “Uh- well- actually, I don’t remember. I don’t think so?” Fundy gasped.

                “Wait! Maybe my dad can be your dad!”

                “Uhh- well- I don’t think-“

                “No, c’mon! I’d get to have an older brother and you’d have a dad!” Fundy looked him in the eyes, determination making them sparkle. He sighed. “Alright. I guess I don’t have anything better to do.” Fundy cheered, making the stars shine with happiness over his newfound Earth family. Then Fundy looked back at the necklace.

                “So, why’d your mom give you that necklace?” Tommy thought for a moment. I mean. No one would believe the child if he told him. Eh, fuck it.

                “Well, she told me that if I ever needed help, I could talk to her through this and she’s answer.” Fundy looked at it in awe. “Does it actually work?” He asked. Tommy grinned, then nodded. “You can’t tell anyone though okay?” Fundy looked at him skeptically. “Are you sure you’re not messing with me?” “Why would I lie to you, Fundy?” Fundy gave him a face of doubt. “It doesn’t actually work does it.” Tommy shrugged. “Whatever you wanna believe.” Fundy didn’t seem to like that answer. “Can...Can I try to talk to your mom?” He asked. Tommy touched it for a moment. After hearing a hum of approval, he let Fundy touch it.

                “How do you do it?”

                “Just touch it and talk.” Fundy gently grabbed it, looking at it carefully. “Hello?” He asked. Then his eyes lit up. “Wha- who was that?!” Tommy laughed. “My mum, Fundy! I told you this!” “Who is your mom?? Can all moms do magic??” He listened for a moment, before looking over at Tommy with a wide eyed look.

                “You didn’t tell me your mom was a Goddess.” Tommy only smiled and shrugged. He put a finger to his lips.

                “Don’t tell Wilbur, ey?”  

Chapter Text

                After that, him and Fundy talked until the small fox hybrid was nearly falling asleep standing up. Tommy brought him into the house and tucked the boy into his bed, per Fundy’s request. Before Tommy went to bed, he looked out at the stars one more time, saying goodnight to them and his mother.

                The next morning, Fundy shook him awake, beaming from the night before.

                “Could I talk to her again?”

                “I dunno big man, Mom’s very busy.”

                “Oh yeah, I guess being a God is hard work...” Tommy nodded.

                “Oh- and like I said last night, don’t tell Wilbur about this, okay?” Fundy excitedly nodded, giggling at the fact that he has a secret to keep from his father.

                They head downstairs, Fundy continuing his giggles as he sees his father. Tommy sighed. It’s not like Wilbur would believe the child, but still. He was a little anxious. “What’re you so happy about this morning?” Wilbur asked, amused by his son’s antics. “I can’t tell you! It’s a secret!” Fundy says proudly. Wilbur raised an eyebrow at this. “Oh yeah?” Fundy nodded.

                Breakfast continued as normal, Fundy bringing up said secret multiple times, and looking over at Tommy. Regret filled Tommy as he realized that children couldn’t keep secrets. Though, the closest Fundy had gotten to telling Wilbur his secret was telling him they were on the roof, which got Tommy a disappointed stare and a small lecture from Wilbur. He would gladly take that rather than have his secret spilled that he wasn't exactly any part human and ruin these nice moments he’s gotten with a family he’s barely known and yet felt like he’d known them his whole life. All his laughs were genuine and he didn’t feel left out of anything. He fit right in. And god if that didn’t feel fucking amazing. He couldn't do that to them. 

                That evening, as the sun was going down, like when Wilbur had led him to this nice place, Tommy had gone outside. Something told him he was going to be here for a while, whether he liked it or not. And so, with that, he decided he needed to protect it. Protect this warm feeling the people inside gave him. He made a bright star that would lead him here. It would be his beacon. And for protection, he made a barrier around the home. Not that it could stop any bad people, it would just alert Tommy if anything threatening besides mobs went near the home. They’d have to deal with the child of the stars if they brought any ill intent to the good people in there. To his family in there. He knew he shouldn’t be so quick to attach himself to mortal beings, they’ll die eventually, they all do. But they make him feel a warmth in his heart and they were so welcoming to a child they barely knew. So, the most he could do was make sure that they’d be safe and live as long as they could.

---

(Time skip woahhhhh)

                After a while, Tommy had gotten antsy of just staying around the house all day. He’s honestly surprised that he hadn’t earlier, but the excitement of getting an Earth family and the stars chattering constantly every night somehow had blocked out that he was TommyInnit, a traveler. A wandering child, who did not grant miracles, despite the legends. He just wanted to see the world. Being young does that to you, he supposes. He asks and asks Wilbur and eventually he’s allowed to go to the village with Fundy. Apparently, the small fox had also been asking and Wil decided to kill two birds with one stone and just let them go together, (not without making sure that they could defend themselves of course, he wasn’t about to let the kids he has around die on his watch), and possibly get some stuff while they were there.

                 Fundy skips besides him, humming a tune, seemingly making it go along to the beat of his footsteps, making it sound like a song for a marching soldier rather than a random song a child was humming. “Hey big man, what’s that song you’re humming?” Tommy asks curiously, as it wasn’t any song he recognized, and as much as Tommy didn’t like to admit it, he found comfort in all sorts of music, making it his goal to know as many songs as he could. “Oh, it was a song dad was working on! It’s a little slower than what I was singing it as, but it’s boring to go slow.” He said with a laugh. “Oh yeah? What’re the lyrics?” “Doesn’t have any yet. Dad says he’s waiting until something special happens before he writes the lyrics.” Tommy let out a ‘huh’ in response. (None of them knew, but in another world, it would one day be a country’s anthem. A great unfinished symphony).

                Tommy pulled out a small list that Wilbur had written for them. Tommy had scoffed beforehand when the man had handed him the list. “What are we, your slaves? I’ll have you know I am no child slave my friend!” Wilbur only laughed. “I just thought that since you’re going to the village, you might as well grab some things instead of just burning it to the ground, you gremlins.” He said fondly. Tommy huffed and took the list, mumbling that he was in fact NOT a gremlin, or a child, or anything else. “Okay big F, you have the emeralds?” Tommy looked over to the hybrid, who happily nodded and pulled out a sack full of emeralds. “Good. There’s not much on here, so let’s try to quickly get through it, yeah?”

“Yeah!”  

As they agreed to, they quickly got through most of the list, Fundy actually making it easier to get away with cheaper prices. His childish demeanor mixed with his sly wit made for a terrifying con-man of a 10-year-old. Even Tommy was slightly scared of how well Fundy managed to get people to drop their prices. Sometimes with a sob story, sometimes with just puppy dog eyes as he asked the price of certain things that would otherwise be expensive. Don’t get them wrong, they had plenty of emeralds and could afford it, but Fundy insisted that he needed to prove that he was the best at scamming. However, it didn’t work for all places, much to their dismay. And it was as they were being pushed out of a store by a lady who had caught onto their act as they noticed a small goat hybrid sitting in a small box on the side of the road. Fundy had tugged onto Tommy’s sleeve and pointed to the boy who played with his bee plush without a care in the world.

“Hey, uh- why’re you in a box?” Tommy bluntly asked. The boy looked up at him then smiled as he processed that he was being talked to. “Oh! Well you see, my dad put me in here. He works weird jobs and puts me in a box when he’s not sure he’ll be back.” The goat said with a way too cheery voice for what the small boy was saying. “Oh. Well, how long have you been here?” “About a day. He should be back soon. If not then...” He trailed off, not seeming to want to finish the sentence. Tommy coughed, not sure how to make the dampened mood any better. The goat seemed to catch drift of Tommy’s nervousness, as he just went back to beaming at them. “It’s okay! I’m sure he’ll be back. My dad’s strong, he’ll be okay.” Tommy nodded. “Alright...well, it was nice talking to you, uh-?” “Tubbo!” He answered. Tommy smiled. “Tubbo. Name’s Tommy. This is Fundy.” Fundy flashed a toothy grin as he waved to Tubbo. Tubbo waved back. Before Tommy and Fundy went off, Tommy turned to the boy.

“Hey- if uh- your dad doesn’t come back-“

“He will.”

“Yeah- Yeah, of course- but if you need a place to stay...our house is just that way.” He points in the direction of the house. “It’s a bit far though, so I suggest going at night.”

“What if I can’t find it?” Tommy smiled.

“You will. I guarantee it.” Tubbo grinned back.

“Okay big man. I believe you.”

“You fuckin better!” He says with a laugh, the goat echoing his humor.

“Alright, alright, I’ll see ya around then!” Tommy nodded, grabbing Fundy’s hand before running off.

“See ya later Big T!” Tubbo’s smile grew with the nickname. He’d made his first friend. He’ll definitely be telling his dad about this.

---

                      When they got to the house, they slammed open the door, Tommy having to do the heavy lifting, seeing as Fundy wasn’t really as strong as the big man himself. “Dad!” Fundy called out to his dad, who turned around with an ‘oomph’ as the child latched himself onto his father. “Hey Fundy.” Wil replied with a laugh. He looked up at Tommy and ruffled his hair. “Hey Toms. Here, let me take some of that.” Wilbur took some of the bags they had acquired, Tommy mumbling a small thanks under his breath.

                     “Dad! Guess what?"

                     “What?”

                     “I managed to save us some emeralds, look!” Fundy said, shoving the bag of emeralds towards his father, Wilbur laughing with a bit of concern.

                     “Funds, I’m glad, but you didn’t do anything too bad to convince them, did you?”

                     “No, I used my words like you told me to! Right Tommy?” Tommy nodded.

                     “A real con-man, he is.” 

                     “He sure is, aren’t you my smart little champion?” Wilbur said, patting his son on the head resulting in Fundy groaning and saying “Daaaad” in embarrassment. Tommy snorted and wondered if all mortal fathers were like this. Obviously not, but he liked to entertain the idea. Tommy looked towards the window and out of the house, where the green grass was being painted gold by the sky above.

                     “Oh, oh! Dad!” Fundy exclaimed, making Wilbur stop what he was doing. “Hm?”

                     “Me and Tommy saw a Tubbo in a box!” Wilbur looked at him confused, looking up at Tommy for the answers. Tommy only shrugged.

                     “’s Tubbo in a box. What will he do? Who knows.” Fundy laughed, nodding along with Tommy. Wilbur snorted. “Who’s Tubbo?”

                     “Goat boy in a box. Had a bee plush. Said he was waiting for his dad.” Tommy said. Wilbur’s face fell. “And he was just there?” Tommy nodded.

                     “Insisted his dad would be back. Said he does it often.”

                     “That’s...concerning.”

                     “No shit, Wilbur. I told him if his dad didn’t come back, he could come here.” Tommy said, still staring out the window.

                     “Did you give him a map here or something?” Wilbur asked. Tommy shook his head.

                     “How the hell is supposed to get here then? Place is pretty fuckin far away from the village.” Tommy only grinned.

                     “He’ll find his way. Don’t worry Wil.”

                     ---

                     After dinner, Tommy went upstairs, Fundy following close behind. It had become their thing. To go onto the roof and talk, or sit in comfortable silence when Tommy just felt like listening to the stars. Today was different, apparently, because as soon as they got onto their spot, Fundy asked questions.

                     “So, you know how your mom’s a Goddess?”

                     “Mhm.”

                     “And Goddesses have powers, right?” Tommy nodded, having a faint idea of where he was going with this.

                     “So, since you’re her son, does that mean you have powers??” Fundy looked him dead in the eyes, a hopeful glint there. Tommy smiled. “You fuckin bet I do, big man.” Fundy gasped.

                     “Really??? What is it? What can you do?” Tommy laughed.

                     “Eh, a few things really. I can manipulate the stars, make them take any form I want them to. Even can make new constellations and shit.”

                      Tommy reached out his hand and some light flew down like shooting stars into his hand, taking the form of a small fox plush. “See?” Fundy’s eyes sparkled. “Does it stay like that forever??” Tommy nodded. “Unless of course I make it not be like that anymore.” Tommy looked at it and made it take the form of a cow plush instead. Fundy’s face fell, looking up at Tommy with a pouty face for making it change. Tommy laughed, changing it back before giving it to the hybrid. Fundy smiled, hugging it close. “What else?” He asked.

                     “I can make small little bombs from stars- though I can’t do that now. One too big and this whole house will explode.” Fundy nodded in understanding, not wanting his home destroyed. “Another thing is I can help people find places and things with the stars.” Fundy tilted his head as if to ask ‘how’. “Well. Hm. Ask me where someone is.” Fundy thought. “Where’s that goat boy we saw earlier?”

                      Tommy closed his eyes for a moment, face towards the sky. Then he opened them and pointed towards the woods beyond the village. “That way. Seems his dad actually came for him.” Fundy smiled. “You know that from the stars?” Tommy nodded. “They speak to me, y’know.” The fox looked at him. “No they don’t.” “Yeah they do! Only at night though. Only when the stars are bright in the sky.” Fundy joined him in looking at the stars, admiring their beauty.

                     “Oh yeah, I can also shapeshift.”

                     “WHAT?!” Tommy let out a laugh. “You’re a liar! There’s no way!”

                     “Fundy, I’m made up of stars. And what can I manipulate?”

                     Fundy thought for a moment before the realization hit him. “Stars...So wait- you can look however you want???” Tommy grinned. “Sure can big man!”

                     “Show me, show me!”

                     “Who should I look like?”

                     “Uhhh...like me!”

                     “Pff- okay Big F.” A silence as Tommy started to glow, then in a flash of light he was a perfect mirror image of the fox hybrid, said hybrid looking in awe. “Woah...”

                     “It’s a little weird, but hey, sometimes I gotta shapeshift to survive.” He says as he turns back, his human form now showing some fox ears and tail. “Now we’re more like brothers, ey?” Fundy excitedly nods. Even though he wasn’t sure if Wilbur thought of him as a son at all, Tommy liked making the fox boy happy by entertaining the thought that they were brothers and their father was a piglin hybrid who hid his features. Tommy had figured that one out when he saw a tusk and asked Wilbur about it, the man telling him that his heritage made him part piglin. Apparently not as much as his brother, but enough to where if you looked hard enough, you could see it.

                     Fox boys!

                     They’re brothers your honor.

                     Two lovely boys if I say so myself.

                     Family time!

                     Little star boy and fox boy, love them.

                     His smile’s almost as bright as yours, star child!

                     So adorable.

                     Tommy laughed. He really did have a family now, didn’t he? He was glad. He didn’t regret leaving the space to go explore, but sometimes he did miss the warmth of his mother’s hugs and her encouraging words. It’s why he spoke to her every night. He still did, but now he had people who were physically here. His mum’s voice and Wilbur and Fundy being here, this was what he needed. He could live with this.

                     He could love this family, even if he wasn’t a human at heart.

                     Even if he could burn out and explode someday. 

Chapter Text

                     Schlatt had grabbed up his son the night before, smiling at his boy’s excitement to be back with his dad. Though he was tired before, now having a mouthful to say and more. Not that he minded, the boy always had interesting things to say. His topic of the day was some boys he had apparently made friends with.

                     “They told me I could go to their house if you didn’t come back, which obviously you did, I knew you would!” Tubbo rambled happily.

                     “Yeah?”

                     “Mhm! But yeah, they said I could go, but Tommy said to go at night. Not sure why though. Though when I thought about going there, I felt a sort of pull towards the direction. Who knows. But either way, I wanted to go see them! They were my friends!” Schlatt smiled, happy for his son. The boy had problems with making friends, so he was glad.

                     “You wanna go see em?” Tubbo nodded furiously. “Well, I guess we can do that soon. I wanna go make sure of some things and make sure we have food and such, yeah?”

                     “So we can go Tommy and Fundy’s house??”

                     “I don’t see why not.” Tubbo cheered, but not without accidentally hitting Schlatt in the face, which caused him to fall over. Schlatt gave him an amused glare, causing the boy to laugh. “You are a fuckin- gods, what am I gonna do with you, huh?” He said, standing up.

                     “Abandon me in the woods?” Schlatt ruffled his hair. “Yeah no, not planning on that anytime soon.” Tubbo grinned at the confirmation that his dad was here to stay.

                     “Now let’s go get those things so we can go visit those friends you won’t stop rambling about.” He said with a laugh, Tubbo already darting to try to get everything done quickly.

                     ---

                     They were eating lunch when a chill went up his spine. Someone was near the house. Tommy shot up, getting confused looks from Fundy and Wilbur. He had changed back to human beforehand, not wanting to be questioned by Wilbur. “Sorry, uh- I-“ Before he could say anything, a knock came from outside. Wilbur hesitantly stood up. “I’ll get that.”

                     “No. I got it Wil.” Tommy said, fairly on edge.

                     Wilbur was already halfway there. “What, you think someone dangerous is gonna be all the way out here?”

                     “Yes.” Wilbur rolled his eyes.

                     “Okay, fair enough, but you’re a child, and I can defend myself Tommy.”

                     “I’m not a fuckin child, Wilbur.”

                     “Mhm, that’s-“ The knock came, this time a little harsher.

                     “Jesus Christ- Okay, okay!” He said. Opening the door, two goat hybrids stand there, one looking more annoyed than the other. Tommy recognized the smaller one as Tubbo, and looked up he guess the taller one was his dad. “Tubbo?” Tommy said, Fundy’s face lit up upon hearing the name. “The boy in the box is back!” Tubbo laughed.

                     “Schlatt?” Wilbur said, recognizing the goat hybrid, which laughed in amusement. “Wilbur fucking Soot. It’s been a while!” Wilbur nodded. “Sure has. And you have a kid now!” He exclaimed as Tubbo squeezed his way past towards the other two. “And you have two!” Schlatt said, mimicking Wilbur’s tone. Wilbur looked conflicted for a moment. “Well...” He looked over at Tommy, who glanced up at them slightly, curious of what Wilbur would say. Wilbur smiled fondly. “Yeah. Guess I do.” Tommy softly smiled, going back to being chaotic with the others.

                     The two older boys played together with Fundy in his room while the adults talked downstairs. They expected it to be boring, and it kinda was, but they managed to have a good time and make each other laugh. Not to mention how Fundy showed off things he made, which impressed both boys. Or at least they were happy that the little fox was happily showing off things he’d made. Tubbo made the mistake of asking a question.

                     “Where’s your mom by the way?”

                     “I don’t know. She’s a salmon, you know.” He answered, not looking up from where he was grabbing things. Tubbo and Tommy looked at each other.

                     “She- She’s a what now?” Tommy asked. He didn’t ask about Fundy’s mother out of respect, but he sure wasn’t expecting this. Fundy stared at them.

                     “She’s a salmon. Sally the Salmon. Is there a problem with that?” Both boys were quick to shake their heads.

                     “Of course not, big man! We just- weren’t expecting that-“ Tubbo nodded with Tommy.

                     “Mhm. I’ll have you know I’m very proud of my mother, no matter what people say.” 

                     “That’s great bud- but uh- was she like a shapeshifter or-“ Tubbo asked, weary of what the answer would be. Fundy only shrugged.

                     “Dad never really went into detail.”

                     “I can imagine why...” Tommy said, god this conversation was something else.

                     “But wait, if your mom’s a salmon and your dad’s a human-“

                     “Piglin.” Fundy and Tommy corrected.

                     “Right. Then how are you a fox?” Again, Fundy only shrugged.

                     “I dunno man! Genes are weird, okay??” Tubbo mumbled a ‘yeah okay’ before the room went silent. They all sat there, unsure of what to say. Tommy hated it, usually the stars were there, but it was still daylight out. He coughed. “So, uh- bees huh?” He said, motioning to the bee plush Tubbo had beside him. Tubbo smiled. “I like da bee. The only thing I like more than bees? Nukes.” Tommy laughed loudly, caught off guard by that. “What the fuck??” He asked through laughs. Tubbo only grinned.

                     The two goat hybrids soon had to leave, Tubbo and Tommy promising to send letters to the other and meet up when they can. Tommy was excited. Never before had he had a friend who matched his energy. It was nice. He was seeing now that this home he’d found himself in was quickly becoming a huge source of happiness he wasn’t about to give up anytime soon. However, once they left, he made the barrier bigger. If a threat did come, he needed more time than a minute to know they were there.

                     That was the first time someone passed through the barrier.

                     ---

                     The second time was a bit later in the month, Tommy and Fundy playing around out front, Tommy letting himself be more of a kid than he has since he left space. Then a chill up his spine. There was someone here. And they were dangerous. He felt a sense of dread come with the chill, this person could kill. And they have. There was no doubt about it. He stopped in his tracks, staring towards the direction that the breach came from.

                     “Fundy. Go inside.” He said coldly, his eyes not moving from the spot.

                     “What? But It’s not even dinner time yet.” Fundy pouted.

                     “Fundy. Please. Now.” Fundy seemed to sense how on edge Tommy was, because the boy ran inside with no more objections. From the tree line, Tommy could see two figures. One was sparkling from the jewelry he had and the crown upon his head, he wore a regal red that was visible from where Tommy stood. The other was shorter than the other, almost blending into the forest if not for the whites and some reds on his outfit, and one other thing. Pitch black wings that sat there, not folded, but not quite fully out. Tommy clenched his fist. He would fight these two. And he would win if they even think about- His thoughts were interrupted by a door opening and closing, Wilbur looking confused before he looked over at the two figures, his eyes going wide.

                     “Oh you’ve gotta be fucking kidding me.” He said, now glaring at the two as the reached the house.

                     “Wilbur?” The shorter one said with a smile, neither of them acknowledging Tommy, who was piecing together what the fuck was going on.

                     “Phil.” Wilbur said shortly, still with an angry look on his face.

                     “So sorry we’ve been gone mate, there’s just been a lot going on and-“ Wilbur put up a hand to stop Phil from continuing. Phil seemed to get the hint.

                     “Anyways, how have you been?” Tommy looked over at Wilbur, who glanced over for a moment. If Wilbur could describe how Tommy looked right now, he’d describe a soldier waiting to take orders. Confusion on his face, but it was hidden by a stone-cold stare. Wilbur leaned over and whispered to Tommy. “Go get Fundy, will you?” Tommy hesitated, looking at the two in front of them before nodding, going to get the hybrid.

                     “Who was that?” Techno asked bluntly.

                     “That was Tommy. He’s been staying here.” Wilbur replied.

                     Tommy and Fundy came out after a minute, Fundy sheepishly going behind his father and Tommy returning to his place besides Wilbur. Wilbur smiled at the boys for a moment before looking back at the two older men who clearly wanted introductions to the smaller ones. Wilbur put a hand on Fundy’s head. “This is Fundy. My son. Not that you were here for it, of course.” Wilbur said, bitterness seeping through. Though he has to admit, the surprise on their faces was amazing. Phil face morphed into one of sorrow. “Wilbur, I really am so-“

                     “Don’t start Phil. I’m not in the mood for your bullshit.” Wilbur said coldly.

                     “Wilbur-“ Techno said gruffly, starting to defend the man he’d been travelling with. “What are you two here for?” Wilbur wasn’t having any of it. Wilbur didn’t seem to be in any position to attack them, but he seemed to feel no need to, his words having enough venom to strike down the two before anything began. Tommy admired that.

                     “This is our home, we can’t come back to it?” Techno said, Wilbur scoffed.

                     “This hasn’t been your home in a hell of a long time and you know that. Besides. The kids have already taken up all the rooms.” Techno froze. “You let a child take over my room?” Tommy glared.

                     “I’m not a fucking child. And besides, your room was painfully boring.” Techno looked down at him. “You didn’t touch anything did you?” Tommy shrugged. “Not really. Might’ve burned a couple books, but that’s it.” He hadn’t meant to, but rereading the story of Theseus made him boil in anger in a way where he didn’t even notice the small star that burned brightly until the book itself had caught on fire and Tommy watched in surprise as the book went into the flames in his hands, crumbling into ashes. He cleaned it up of course. Wilbur whipped his head towards Tommy. “You started fires in the house??” Tommy froze. Shit, he was in trouble. “Not on purpose!”

                     “What books did you burn?!” Techno asked, to which Tommy turned his attention back to Technoblade.

                     “Theseus. It’s a shit story.” The Blood God seemed to take offense to that.

                     “Wha- you didn’t have to burn it because you didn’t like it!”

                     “Like I said, it wasn’t on purpose. And besides. It was just overall bad. And inaccurate.”

                     “How do you burn something on accident??” Wilbur questioned, still set on scolding him.

                     “And what do you know about the story of Theseus?” Techno added.

                     “That it’s not completely true.” Tommy opted to ignore the other twin, who made a noise of anger at him being metaphorically pushed to the side.

                     “What is true then?” Tommy sighed.

                     “Just- go back to arguing with Wilbur, Blade.”

                     “No, I’m curious to why you think it’s not true.” Tommy huffed.

                     “It doesn’t matter, it’s just bullshit.” He really shouldn’t be mad at this. He shouldn’t be mad at the fact that the people documenting it hadn’t known some details about the story that only he knew.

                     “It does matter, it matters to me, so spill-“

                     “Just fuck off!” Tommy said, deeming it safe enough to stomp off into the house. Tommy had his reasons for not liking the story of Theseus. He had known better because he had lived through it. Lived through the life of Theseus. It was like the books, in a way. But it also wasn’t. It didn’t feel real. The books made it feel like that life was a myth. And Tommy hated that fact.  

Chapter Text

                     Theseus was a real person yes, but he’d died long before he killed the Minotaur. Tommy had been watching from afar, curious of the man’s adventures. A would be king, though Medea was afraid Theseus would get Aegeus’s throne instead of her son, and sent him on a dangerous journey to capture the Cretan Bull and bring it back to Athens. That much was true.

                     What wasn’t told in the stories was about how a small boy had caught the man off-guard while he was in the process of capturing it, and ultimately getting him killed. Tommy felt terrible for causing such a tragedy. So, instead, he took the form of Theseus, making a legacy for the poor man he had killed. He was a son for a bit, killed the Minotaur, hell he was even married for a few days. He had dropped her off on an island before, unsure of how else to handle that situation, making sure she was safe before he left.

                      He had also accidentally caused Aegeus to kill himself, Tommy had forgotten to change his sail to white, which both led him to become a king and cause yet another death. He had a starry look alike Theseus for most of those years. No way he was about to have children, he wasn’t that into giving the man a legacy. He mostly just did the work and let the look alike handle family matters. He didn’t want to get into what happened with Pirithous. He would forever feel shame for not saving the man he called his best friend in those days. However, he didn’t want questions. So, he left Pirithous behind in the Underworld.

                     Exile was something else he very much was not able to handle. He had been replaced and then turned away, and once he thought he found refuge? Lycomedes, the paranoid idiot, thought he was after his throne. He wasn’t, of course. He had just wanted to have a break, but oh well. At least he didn’t have to play Theseus anymore after the king had pushed him off. He got to be Tommy again.

                     Tommy stretched, looking over at the books on the shelf, the empty spot where the story of Theseus was now feeling bigger than it was. Reliving those memories was both painful and exhilarating. Painful for the death and tears he had caused, but exhilarating for the adrenaline and battles he had gotten himself into, back then he truly lived life being feral, letting his violent tendencies run wild even without the stars. He wonders if that’s why they weren’t like the Blood God’s Chat. He was already violent enough as it is. Or at least, he was. Tommy thinks for a moment. No, he definitely still is.

                      Downstairs, he heard people walking into the house, two more sets than usual. Damn. He guessed those two were staying. He was both slightly excited, because for a while he had looked up to the Blade and Philza, but it was bittersweet, seeing as they abandoned Wilbur and didn’t even know about Fundy. On the bright side though, at least Fundy gets to meet them. He supposes he gets to meet them too, but Technoblade kind of ruined his first impression with the Theseus thing. It wasn’t meant to hit him in a soft spot, sure, but it still doesn’t mean he can’t be mad about it.

                     He sighed, going back down after cooling himself down. Phil and Techno sitting at the table while Fundy is sitting, playing with his toys, however silently observing the conversation that was going on. Phil, Wilbur and Techno were making small talk, Wilbur reluctantly catching them up on everything that had happened after they left. Tommy proudly sat down at the table next to Wilbur, away from the other two. “Well, if it isn’t the child expert on Greek Mythology.” Techno said, obviously still bitter.

                     “I’m not a fucking child, dickhead. And I’m not an expert in Greek Mythology, I just know Theseus is bullshit.”

                     “How would you know, were you alive back then??”
                     “Maybe I was.” He said with a smirk. Philza laughed.

                     “Mate calm down, it’s just a story, no need to get all bent outta shape about it.” Tommy wasn’t quite sure who he was directing it at, but he was guessing he meant Techno, who merely scowled at the older man. Tommy felt a satisfaction knowing that he was being defended by the ‘Angel of Death’.

                     “That’s right Blade, it’s just a story, ‘s not my fault it’s wrong.”

                     “How old even are you?” Techno was seemingly fed up with Tommy already. Too bad, he could do this forever.

                     “13, big man.”

                     “You’re barely a teen!” Techno shouted.

                     “That’s what I said!” Wilbur joined in.

                     “Wil,” he said, drawing out the ‘L’, “you’re supposed to be on my side!” Tommy was not happy about this alliance.

                     “Sorry Toms, but he has a point.”

                     “You bitch! You absolute bitch!”

                     The rest of the day went in a similar fashion, all playfully arguing and Wilbur reluctantly accepting the fact that Philza and Technoblade were back into the house. Though, there had to be a slight change of bedrooms. Tommy had rejected any attempts to change bedroom, but once Wilbur said he could sleep on the couch to give Phil a bed, Tommy quickly changed his mind, not wanting Wilbur to have to be moved to a couch for some old man who abandoned him. He slept in Fundy’s room that night, sharing a room with the fox boy who didn’t seem to run out of energy. It turned into a sleepover of sorts, the ones that ended in giggles over small things and Wilbur having to open the door and nicely tell them to shut up and sleep.

                     Tommy had kept a close eye on the two legends, occasionally talking with them. They seemed nice. Or at least Philza was. Techno seemed to still be mad over the Theseus book. He did him a favor with that. He did offer to get another one for Techno, but Techno just grumbled, saying how Tommy would just burn it again. Asshole.

                      Though, besides the arguments over Greek Mythology, they had some nice conversations. Mostly just Tommy ranting about his day while Techno listened, either getting into the conversation as well, or just telling him to go away.

                      They all seemed to fall into a routine of sorts, each morning Tommy would get up and go down to see Phil and Techno making breakfast, Wilbur using the time to spend with Fundy, which Fundy very much appreciated by the look on his face. After breakfast and small conversations, Phil and Techno would go around doing things, whether it be talking to Wilbur, fixing up small things around the house, putting extensions on the house to accommodate for the extra people, or weirdly enough, Technoblade started a potato garden out back, which everyone but Phil seemed to be caught off-guard by.

                     Wilbur seemed to be happy that the two were here, his smile seeming more genuine after the two stayed for more than a couple days. Which was good in Tommy’s eyes. Wilbur seemed sad whenever he talked about them and if they’re back for good, it could be good for Wilbur. However, it was also quite evident that he didn’t expect them to stay for much longer, which was not so good. He had reduced himself to not talking as much, watching the two for signs of...something.

                      If Tommy was guessing, Wilbur was waiting for them to up and go with an announcement or packing or something. He’d seen his fair share of families drifting apart. He didn’t want this one to fall apart any more than it has, and they seemed like they were good people at their core, so he prayed they had some common sense and didn’t leave their brother and son behind once again.

                      Then again, some could only pray.

Chapter Text

Chapter Text

                     Tommy went down the next day smiling, knowing he had done a good thing, especially as he saw Wilbur genuinely happy to be in their presence. They looked towards the stairs, Wilbur quickly greeting him as the other two adults avoided eye contact, Phil only giving a small smile, while Techno ignored him completely. That was fine. He didn’t need their attention.  

                     Fundy happily ran up to him, letter in hand. “It’s from Tubbo!” Tommy’s smile widened, quickly grabbing up the letter. Now, Tubbo wasn’t the best at writing, his dyslexia had gotten the better of him with that, but even if they couldn’t read a few misspelt words, both boys felt a joy when getting letters from his friend. Tommy read through it, his face going from shocked to extremely happy.

                     “What’s it say? C’mon, stop being tall!” The boy whined, trying to peer over Tommy’s arm.

                     “It says he’s planning on visiting soon!”

                     “Really?!”

                     “Couple things to do, but yeah! His dad and him found another job around here and they’ve decided to harass the Soot family, ey?” Fundy smiled full of teeth, happily cheering as the three adults looked over. Tommy smirked. Sure, he knew for sure that their real last name was Minecraft and not Soot, and Tommy wasn’t biologically a part of it. Would that stop him? No. He was gonna show them just how much they fucked up. We don’t even use your last name anymore, pricks. He thought as he smiled over to Wilbur, who looked fondly at him and the hybrid running around. Techno quickly went back to what he was doing to avoid making eye contact. Philza’s mind seemed to be catching up, before smiling quickly and then going back to his task as well. Tommy knew he shouldn’t rub it in, but he’s still mad over the fact that the two even considered abandoning a family.

                     “Well, hopefully we’ll have enough room for everyone here.” Wilbur said.

                     “We’ll get the extensions done soon, I’m sure we will.” Techno said blandly. Wilbur only nodded in understanding.

                       “Speaking of which, how about we get to work on that? If we’re gonna have visitors, we might as well hurry up and get it done.” Philza said, Techno stood up in a silent agreement, the two beginning to walk out.

                     “Hey can I help? I’ll be helpful, promise.” Tommy asked. He really wanted to fuck with them, and the way they looked when he asked was priceless.

                     “Uh...well, maybe another time mate-“

                     “Aw c’mon Phil, the gremlin looks up to you two, he told me so himself- let him help-“

                     “Wilbur, what the fuck?! Don’t tell them that! Not true!” Tommy shouted, which led to Wilbur laughing.

                     “Yes, it is, you said to me- you said ‘Wilby, I really love the Blood God and Philza- they’re so cool, you’re related to them?? They’re so amazing, holy shit!’”

                     “I did not say that!”

                     “You might as well have said that!“

                     “Fuck off! I hate you! You’re a bitch! Blade, Philza, let’s go!” Tommy said, stomping out of the house, Philza and Techno followed reluctantly after Wilbur waved em off to go and let him help. They worked in silence, or well, what Tommy considers silence, him rambling to keep at least some noise. Until Technoblade finally spoke up.

                     “Why are you here?” Tommy looked up to him.

                     “What?”

                     “Why are you here? You can’t just be helping us for no reason, what do you want?”

                     “Techno...” Phil began, Tommy stood up.

                     “No, I understand. I know what you’re asking. I am here for a reason. I mean you are the Blade and Philza Minecraft.” They stared at him expectantly. After a second, they realized they weren’t getting another answer.

                     “Is that really it?” Phil asked.

                     “You assume I have other motives? I’m hurt, Philza Minecraft. You’ve harmed me with your words. I, a mere child, wishes to spend time with two legends, who are also his family-“

                     “We’re not your family.” Technoblade cuts in.

                     “-and this is how you treat me? I’m wounded.” Tommy finished.

                     “Ah...didn’t mean to mate, it’s just- after last night-“

                     “What about last night?” Tommy asked, looking towards Phil with a curious look. Phil paused.

                     “You do, uh- remember, right...?” Tommy scoffed.

                     “Of course, I remember, big man, I’m not some violent sleepwalker. I just wanted to know if you wanted to talk about it.” Techno’s patience grew thin, him finally speaking up.

                     “You never answered my question.”

                     “Which one?” Techno glared at him.

                     “What are you?”

                     “I think that one was answered.”

                     “I didn’t ask who you were-“

                     “I think what I said fairly describes what I am. I’m a brother and a son. I don’t need to be anything more.”

                     “But you aren’t human.”

                     “And what if I wasn’t? What’s the problem with that, oh great Blood God?”

                     Silence. Tommy sighs. 

                     He turned towards the door. “Welp! It’s been fun, talk to you two later.” He gave a small two finger salute and then walked back into the house, seeing Fundy play while Wilbur was finishing up some food in the kitchen. Wilbur turned towards the door, seeing who it was before smiling.

                     “Hey Toms, back so soon?”

                     “Yeahhh, not as cool as I thought. Pretty boring.”

                     “Ah. Building not for you?” Tommy shakes his head. Wilbur laughed softly.

                     “Okay, okay. I’m gonna go see what the fuck they’re doing out there, sandwiches are on the counter for you and Fundy if you want them.”

                     “Okay, thanks Dad-” They both froze, Tommy felt his face heat up. Fundy beamed while a grin found its place on Wilbur’s face.

                     “Did you just-“

                     “No! Fuck off!”

                     “Aww Tommy-“

                     “Shut the fuck up Wilbur, go hang out with your family!”

                     “You are my family now, Toms!” Wilbur hugs Tommy, Tommy trying to squirm his way out of it.

                     “No! I swear to god! Fucking- Let go of me!”

                     “You called me Dadddd-“

                     “I did not!”

                     “You did too! I heard it!” Fundy joined in.

                     “Fundy! You traitor! I’m gonna-“

                     “You will do nothing to your little brother.”

                     “He’s not my-“ Tommy looked over to Fundy, who had an almost hurt look in his eyes for a moment. Tommy groaned and stopped squirming.

                     “Fine- Fine whatever- Just- fucking- Let me go, dickhead-“ Fundy went back to smiling and Wilbur laughed, letting go of Tommy and ruffling his hair.

                     “I’ll be back. Don’t burn down the house.” Wilbur said as he went outside, Fundy nodded while Tommy put a thumbs up, flopping onto the couch, Fundy following. A moment of silence as he closed the door.

                     “I say we burn more of those books to prank him-“ Fundy suggested.

                     “Eh, I’m sure he’d just laugh along with us.”

                     “Aww ok.”

                     “Good idea though. Could fuck with Technoblade.” Tommy laughed. Fundy fidgeted in his spot.

                     “Tommy?”

                     “Yeah?” Fundy looks up to him.

                     “What do you think of Grandpa Phil and Uncle Technoblade?” Tommy thought about it for a moment before shrugging.

                     “They’re okay I guess. Less awesome, but hey, people hype up legends. What do you think of them? I mean they’re your Grandpa and Uncle.”

                     “They’re yours too. But...hm....I guess, I don’t really know. I’m glad them being here makes Dad happy and that he doesn’t have to do as much, but...I dunno...Grandpa’s nice...Uncle Technoblade’s kinda scary though.” Tommy snorted.

                     “Nahhhh he’s not scary. He’s just a bit intimidating.”

                     “Isn’t that the same thing?”

                     “Shh, I’m older than you. And besides, he’s probably one of those guys who don’t know how to give an unawkward hug from lack of affection. Trust me, I’ve seen plenty. I’m sure at his core he’s fine. Just ‘troubled’ as the therapists say. Seen a lot of it.”

                     “Sure, Mr. ‘I’m 13’.” Fundy said with a snicker.

                     “Hey, I am!”

                     “You’re an old man!”

                     “I’ll have you know, I’m super young for a star, dickhead!”

                     “Tell me how old you are.”

                     “That is classified.”

                     “Tell me!”

                     “Nope!” Fundy sat back, pouting. Tommy thought for a moment.

                     “Oh yeah. Speaking of old and misleading, Technoblade is actually the Blood God, not just legend or a rumor. Learned that from the stars a while back. Pretty surprising.”

                     “What? Wait- he’s a god? Like you?”

                     “I’m not a God- but yes. Guess the old one retired. Must’ve picked him to be the replacement. Explains the voices. Poor guy. Only God or Goddesses and extremely close followers that the God or Goddess has personally recognized can hear voices. And he’s definitely not a follower.” Fundy nods in understanding.

                     “So...Gods can choose someone to be the next God?”

                     “Basically.”

                     “So I could be a God?”

                     “I mean- I don’t see why not.” Fundy’s face brightens.

                     “Can I be a god?” He says, voice barely a whisper.

                     “I- well- I’m not a god- so I can’t really choose that...”

                     “But  you can talk to other gods, can’t you?”

                     “I’m not really supposed to do that either...”

                     “Why not?”

                     “Well, Mum said a lot of Gods and Goddesses got replaced while I was being made and was with her, so I guess she’s worried they’ll try to use me against her somehow? I don’t see why they would do that though.” It went silent, both Fundy thinking and Tommy silently reassuring himself of his answer.

                     Just then, Wilbur came back in, followed by the other two.

                     “Hey! Glad to see you two didn’t do anything bad, what’re you talking about?”

                     “Politics.”

                     “Crimes!” Fundy shouts.

                     “That too.” Tommy said. Techno turned to Wilbur.

                     “What kind of kids are you raising?”
                     “Obviously the best kind.” Wilbur answered. 

Chapter Text

                   On one of the rare days where Tommy could go out undetected, he did. He hadn’t gotten a good grip on where everything around the house was, and he needed to know his area. Mainly, he needed to make sure the barrier was clear. Call him paranoid, but he’d rather be prepared. It saved him in wars and it’ll save him here. That and he wanted to see if he’d see Tubbo. He wasn’t missing the goat boy or anything, it’s just that Fundy wouldn’t stop talking about his visit. Yeah. That was it.

                     A flash of white just outside the barrier. Tommy whipped towards it. Nothing. Maybe just a rabbit or something. He thought. Still, he couldn’t help but feel on edge. He’d been in way too many wars or something. Here he is, basically patrolling the barrier when he should just let it do its job. A slight shiver and then it’s gone, like someone stuck a hand into the barrier before quickly pulling it out.

                     Was...Was someone there? Was someone aware of the barrier? That was worse than someone just entering. He felt the shiver again, this time walking towards where the feeling came from.

                     He slowly approached the area, hoping to catch the person in the act.

                     “What are you doin' mate?” Philza said.

                     “Fuckin- what is it with this family and seeking up on people?!” Phil let out a laugh.

                     “Sorry, I was just going out to see if there was anything to hunt around here and I saw you sneaking around. Thought I’d see what you were doing.” Phil said, smiling. Tommy looked behind him, where the spot was, the feeling now permanently gone.

                     “Yeah okay...you made me lose it though.” He mumbled.

                     “Lose what?”

                     “Nothing...Just...a rabbit. Yeah.” He was honestly trying to convince not only Phil, but himself at this point. Because if something was aware of the barrier and fast enough to evade him? Well, either he had a sibling or there was a God who was aware of him and what he could do. And his mother would’ve told him if she made a new child out of stars.

                     “Hm. Well what are you doing here? Are you hunting as well?”

                     “I guess you could call it that.”

                     “Well, you wanna come with me then? Not much else to do, might as well stay together and see what we can find.” Tommy stared at him.              

                     “For a person who abandons children, you’re very kind when you want to be.” Phil laughed.

                     “Yeahhh...here.” He handed him an extra bow, Tommy taking it. They go past the barrier, Tommy trying not to make it obvious that they’d just past an important thing around the home.

                     “Why do you just have an extra bow on you?”

                     “It never hurts to be prepared. Besides, I had a feeling I’d be hunting with someone today.” Tommy stares at him.

                     “You are a strange man, Philza.”

                     “Pff- how am I strange?”

                     “Well, to start off, you’re a legendary immortal who turns out to be a father to my father, which you abandoned with his brother and now that I’ve forced you to stay, you suddenly want to be buddy-buddy with me. Don’t you see how that’s strange?”

                     “You make a point, but I mean if Wilbur sees you as a son, then it must be for a good reason. Threatened or not, I might as well see what you’re about, you know mate?” Tommy hummed, looking around for anything.

                     “You should be more focused on Fundy and Wilbur.”

                     “I thought I’d let Technoblade enjoy time without me there.” Tommy snorted.

                     “What?”

                     “That’s rich. From what I’ve seen, the piglin would choose you over other family members any day.”

                     “Now, let’s not assume-“

                     “Phil, I’ve seen favoritism before.” Phil softly laughed.

                     “Alright, what haven’t you seen before?”

                     “Gods on Earth. It was quite a surprise when I saw Technoblade was actually a god.”

                     “Hm?” Tommy stopped.

                     “Wait- you didn’t know?”

                     “Know what?” Confusion was written all over Phil’s face.

                     “Phil, Technoblade’s a god. Blood God.” Phil’s face turns into amusement.

                     “Ah yes, that rumor.”

                     “It- It’s not- If he’s hearing voices, he’s a follower of the Gods or a God. Does the Blade pray to any Gods?” Phil shook his head no.

                     “Not that I’m aware of...”

                     “Then he’s a God. Wow. Glad we got that out of the way. Let’s keep moving.” Tommy started walking again. Phil stood behind for a moment before he collected his thoughts and quickly caught up with Tommy.

                     “How do you know so much about Gods? Isn’t that information supposed to be kept between followers and Gods?”

                     “How do you know that, hm?” Tommy said, avoiding the question.

                     “There’s a reason they call me the Angel of Death, Tommy.” Tommy looked over with a raised eyebrow.

                     “You pray to Death?” Phil nodded.

                     “I’ve talked to her before.”

                     “Oh...So you hear voices as well?” Tommy had talked to the Goddess before as well. Exde and Kirstin; better known as Life and Death, were some of the only deities he could speak to. For Life and Death were eternal; not fully replaceable. And Exde and Kirstin seemed to like their jobs, brightly explaining to the small star how their jobs worked as they visited his mother.

                     “Yes. It’s why me and Techno decided to travel together. Calm the voices. They crave death.” Tommy hummed in acknowledgement. Out of the corner of his eye, he spots a deer.

                     “So that’s why you’re saying you had to leave?”

                     “Well it is mostly the reason.”

                     “And what was the other, what would it be? 10 percent?” Phil sighed.

                     “I’ll be honest with you mate, adventuring just called to us. Can’t stay in one place for too long.”

                     “And you didn’t think Wilbur would want that?”

                     “He never asked to go.” Tommy raised up his bow silently, Philza not entirely paying attention, most likely half listening to chat and half talking with Tommy.

                     “He shouldn’t have to ask. Family should stick together. Talk things out. That’s what my mum always said.” He formed an arrow while Phil wasn’t looking. He hadn’t bothered to give Tommy any while they were talking.

                     “Yeah?” Aim it.

                     “Yeah.” Pull it back; not too much or the string will snap.

                     “She doesn’t seem like she kept to her advice-“ Let go. The arrow zoomed through the air and hit the deer through the chest. A noise of pain from the deer. Philza snaps towards where Tommy was, who curtly put down his bow.

                     “You don’t know shit about my mother. Just like you don’t know shit about being a father. I know Wilbur and Fundy will die one day and I know they’ll eventually mean nothing to you, but if I were you, I’d cherish the time you have together. Just like that deer. It probably had a family. Siblings. And now they’ll never hear from that one again. Never get to spend another moment with it.”

                     “Ender, morbid much?” Phil said with a concerned laugh.

                     “Eh- someone talked to me about time once and it really stuck with me. And besides. You’re still not getting the fact that you need to be a father and not a family friend. You’re treating your kids like they’re your old buddies. They’re not.” Tommy walked over and picked up the deer with only a small amount of trouble, not bothering to worry about the blood at the moment.

                     “If I have to talk to you and Technoblade about how to actually care about people, it’s just gonna be really sad. So please. Try to figure it out. It was fun talking to you Philza. Learned quite a lot. Now I’ve gotta get this thing home. Sun’s gonna be setting soon.” And with that, Tommy walked off, going back to the house to gross out Fundy with his dead deer.

                     No one saw the pair of purple eyes staring down the two blonds.

                     ---

                                A child sits in the aftermath of a broken civilization, of a total wipeout of his home. He cries out, to someone, anyone who will lend their hand. Alone and afraid. He calls out for a mother, a father, a sibling, to no avail. He is the lone survivor and he doesn’t know how to handle that. He reaches out to the Gods, praying for anyone to save him from all the fire and smoke and blood. And finally, someone answers. They grab his hand and pick him up.

 But then a small seed invades his mind, pushing into his thoughts and controlling them. He can’t control his body anymore. All he sees is void, and a smiley face. And no matter where he turns and where he runs, he can’t escape it, can’t escape the sickly-sweet voice that haunts him as he tries and tries to regain control of his body.

                And he screams. 

Chapter Text

                   Two days later, a warmth was felt. Tubbo. Tommy dashed out of the house the second he felt it, Fundy following behind with a confused Wilbur. They met up about halfway, both adults extremely confused while the kids had their nice reunion.

                     “Tubbo!” Tommy shouted as they hug.

                     “Big man!”

                     “Tubbo!” Fundy echoed.

                     “Smaller big man!”

                     “I’m not that small!”

                     “You are tiny.” Tubbo stated.

                     “Sorry Big F, he’s got a point.”

                     “Hey, you’re supposed to take my side!”

                     “Just because we’re brothers doesn’t mean I have to lie to you. I’m sorry Fundy.”

                     “You’re mean!”

                     “Okay, let’s go back to the house- Technoblade and Phil will wonder where we went.” Wilbur said.

                     “Techno and Phil? Didn’t they leave years ago?” Schlatt asked.

                     “Apparently they’ve come back for good.” Wilbur said. Schlatt scoffed.

                     “Yeah right, you know those two.”

                     “Yeahhh, but they’ve stayed longer than usual so- I can hope, huh?” Schlatt only nodded, they all headed towards the house. Techno and Phil had gotten the extensions done the day before, so there were plenty of rooms set for not only the family, but two goat hybrids too.

                     As they entered the house, they found Phil and Techno sitting on the couch with Phil reading and Techno sharpening a sword. “Philza and Technoblade! Been a while since I’ve seen you two in this place.” Schlatt said through a cheery demeanor. Tommy could tell Schlatt was closing to throttling them though. He doesn’t blame him. Techno hummed in acknowledgement while Phil put his book down, smiling up at the hybrid.

                     “Schlatt! It sure has been a while. I apologize for that.” Schlatt merely nodded, going back to talking with Wilbur.

                     “So you said you had some extra rooms?”       

                     “Oh, yeah- let me show you where you guys can stay-“ Wilbur led Schlatt away. Tubbo stared at the two legends, leaning towards Tommy before whispering.

                     “Is that Philza and Technoblade? Those guys people are always talking about?” Tommy nodded.

                     “Holy shit.” Tubbo stared at them for a minute longer. “Okay, let’s go then!” He grabbed Tommy’s hand and they went, Fundy following.

                     They messed around for the rest of the day, occasionally pulling small pranks on some of the adults around the house and just generally being chaotic kids. Dinner was livelier than ever, and it was one of the moments where Tommy could do nothing but grin, happy he was able to be a part of this. Schlatt and Wilbur were talking to Phil about whatever, Techno was reading a book and Tubbo somehow had gotten ahold of a pufferfish, trying to slip it to Fundy calling it a ‘stress reliever’. Tommy smacked it away a couple times before Schlatt eventually confiscated them, very confused on how his son got ahold of the thing.

                      Dinner ended with the boys having to go their separate ways, much to the trio’s dismay. Tubbo was in a room near his father, which was basically on the other side of the house. However, that didn’t stop Fundy from basically dragging Tommy onto the roof, their nightly routine at this point.

                     Time went by with talking and questions until a different voice was heard.

                     “What the hell are you two doing up there?!” Tubbo asked, his head out of the window. Fundy waved to him.           
                     “We do this every night!” Tubbo stared at him.

                     “So you guys go up on the dangerous roof to just talk...”

                     “L-Look we-“ Tommy started, rubbing the back of his neck.

                     “Without me?!” Tubbo interrupted, climbing up onto the roof and going over to them, much to Tommy’s surprise.

                     “You’re okay with this?”

                     “It’s the roof, what’s the worst that can happen?”

                     “We could cave in the roof and fall.” Fundy said.

                     “Or just fall.”

                     “We could also just jump on the roof until everyone’s awake.” Fundy said.

                     “That’s more of harassing the adults, not bad things that can happen.”

                     “It’d be funny though.”

                     “He’s right. It would be.” Tubbo agreed. “So what do you guys talk about up here? There’s nothing really interesting.” Fundy brightened at the question.

                     “Oh! We talk about lots of things! Like things I’ve made, stories Dad has told me, and Tommy tells some stories too! Like one time, he was telling me about a Go-“ Tommy slapped his hand over Fundy’s mouth.

                     “Fundy. Our secret. What the hell.” Fundy smacked away his hand.

                     “First of all- you said not to tell Dad.” Fundy said with a grin.

                     “Damn you, you and your fuckin loopholes.”

                     “Also. It’s Tubbo. We can’t just not tell Tubbo. It’s against the law.”

                     “Yes. I am a lawyer, and also Tubbo, and I agree.” Tubbo said.

                     “Since when were you a lawyer?” Tommy said, turning towards the goat hybrid.

                     “Since right now. I’m Big Law. A lawyer. I know the law. Now tell me.”

                     “See? Big Law. We have to tell him.” Fundy said. Tommy groaned.

                     “Fine. Whatever.” Tommy grumbled.

                     “Tommy’s a God!” Fundy exclaimed. Tubbo stared blankly.

                     “I am NOT a god.” Tommy said.

                     “Then what are you?”

                     “An immortal being made up of pure stars.”

                     “So a god.”

                     “No. Do you see me have followers? You see me able to go up to where the gods are? No. I’m just immortal with some powers.” Tubbo seemed to snap out of it a second later, exploding with questions.

                     “So wait- you’re telling me. Tommy of all people is a person made of stars? How do you not burn everything you’re around? Is this your true form? How were you made? Who’s your creator? Was it like some failed lab experiment?”

                     “Woah there- one question at a time Big T-“ Tommy said, slightly overwhelmed.

                     “Sorry I just- It’s really weird.”

                     “No shit. And also- you can’t tell anyone- I’m already taking enough of a risk by telling you two.”

                     “So only us kids know?” Tommy nodded.

                     “Huh. Why not tell the adults?”

                     “You think I’m gonna tell a God, an immortal with contacts to said Gods and Wilbur?”

                     “What’s wrong with Dad?” Fundy asked.

                     “Wilbur is Wilbur. I think that’s evidence enough.”

                     “Okay...but how do you know about the gods?”

                     “His mom’s a Goddess!”

                     “Yeahhh. Goddess of Space. It’s how she made me. With condensed stars. Don’t ask me how I’m staying like this, I have no clue.”

                     “Hm okay...so Gods and Goddesses are actually real?” Tubbo asked. Tommy nodded. “Which ones are real?”

                     “Well, I’ve only talked to a handful of em...But the ones I’ve talked to are Exde, God of Life- pretty weird, but he’s cool I guess. Kirstin, Goddess of Death, she’s like a, uh- aunt to me? I think that’s what you call them. Bad, God of the Nether- really nice guy, though he isn’t fond of swearing. Not sure why. Clementine, Goddess of Time, she’s actually around my age I think; she was one of the only ones I played with when I was smaller. Technoblade, the God of Blood- you know how he is. And then my mom, Clara, Goddess of Space.” Tubbo nodded along as Tommy counted on his fingers as he talked.

                     “That’s a lot of Gods.”

                     “Sure is. You know, I really shouldn’t be telling you any of this.”

                     “But you are.”

                     “Yeahhh. Mostly because I trust you not to say anything.”

                     “Oh no, I’m gonna tell everyone. Gonna sell you as an attraction and make millions. Profit off of all the information you’ve given me.” Tubbo said jokingly.

                      “Honestly? Wouldn’t be the first time.” Tommy said.

                       “Wait- really?” Tubbo asked.

                       “Was one of my first mistakes when I first came down here. Was in a cage for months. Wasn’t until I got real fuckin pissed and blew up the cage that I got out.”

                      “Ender- that sucks.”

                      “Sure did.” Tommy said. Suddenly, he noticed a glint of light from the trees. He leaned slightly forward, trying to get a better look.

                       Rabbit?

                       No it’s shining. Someone must be here!

                      Within the barrier? No way.  

                      He agreed, no way there was someone in here. Not without him knowing...Unless...

                      Starchild, you have to run.

                     The tone felt like cold water being dumped on him. What the hell are they on about? The voices only got louder, agreeing with the voice.

                     Starchild, go!

                     They’re gonna get you!

                     You can’t save them.

                     Run.

                     You’re fucked if you stay here.

                    Tommy, you have to go. You’ve stayed too long.

                     What the hell were they on about? He put his hands over his ears, trying to block out the noise. Somewhere around him someone was saying something, but he couldn’t tell what. He couldn’t get over the sense of dread, the fear he felt as he saw the glimmer of light again, only closer. What the hell was it? What was he supposed to be scared of? They wouldn’t tell him. What weren’t they telling him? Why couldn’t he stay here? What did they mean he’d stayed too long? What-

                     “What the fuck are you guys doing up there?” Schlatt called out, making all three jump and turn towards him.

                       “Uhh- Plotting.” Tubbo says.

                      “This late at night?”

                      “Yes.”

                       A moment of silence.

                     “Get your asses down here.” Schlatt says as he stares at them from his window, all three mumbling ‘okays’ as they go back through the window and into the house. Tommy was still semi-zoned out as Fundy and Tubbo tried to come up with a story to explain why they were up there before Schlatt came.

                     “What the hell was that about by the way?” Tubbo asks, snapping Tommy out of his daze.

                     “What?” Tommy asked.

                     “You randomly covered your ears and were talking to yourself- you wouldn’t answer us...we were worried...” Fundy says.

                     “Oh, I uh- Don’t worry about it- It was nothing.” Tommy assures, an unspoken ‘I hope’ hanging in the air. Not even a minute later, Schlatt with a pissed looking Wilbur stood in the doorway, the kids hanging their head low.

                     “Schlatt, you can take Tubbo- I’ll talk to my two.” Schlatt nodded, motioning for Tubbo to follow him. Tubbo waves a small goodbye and trails after his father. Wilbur sighed and pinched the bridge of his nose, walking over to the two.

                 “Gods it is too late for this- why the hell were you two on the roof?”

                 “We were talking...” Tommy said.

                 “About what?” The two shrugged.

                   “Dad, it’s fine, we do it every night-“ Fundy tried to defend.

                   “Every night? On the roof?” Wilbur stared at them in disbelief, and Fundy seemed to shrink down, not wanting to get his dad too angry.

                     “We were sure to be safe, I promise.” Tommy said. Wilbur looked at them for a moment before seeming to come to a decision in his mind. He got down on a knee to be more at eye-level with them. Mostly Fundy.

                     “Okay. You two are kids, you wanna play dangerous, I get it. But please guys, no more going on the roof. I don’t know what I’d do if one of you got hurt. Do you understand?” The boys nodded.

                     “Good. Thank you. Now let’s all go to bed, yeah? I’m tired as hell and Schlatt basically just dragged me out of bed until I hit the floor and then told me what happened.” He said with a tired laugh. “Come on Fundy, let’s get you to your room. Do you need anything Toms?” Wilbur asked before taking Fundy. Tommy shook his head and that was enough, Wilbur and Fundy going, closing the door behind him.

                     And as Tommy turned back towards his window to close it he saw something again. A flash of white against the trees and then a glimmering flash of light that was only seen for a moment. And in that moment, Tommy knew he needed to go outside. Something was here. Something was dangerous. And he needed to deal with it immediately. 

Chapter Text

                  Tommy walked out into the cool night, dagger in hand. The stars were screaming at him to go inside. It felt like the times he was in war, when he was wounded and bleeding out, but he still kept on fighting, kept on running into the carnage, sword in hand as the stars yelled for his safety and blood. Gods, all the blood. But this wasn’t a battle and he wasn’t hurt. Not yet at least.

                     Chaos.

                      Oh poor child...

                     Starchild, run before it’s too late.

                      Oh dear, not Chaos...

                     RUN. RUN. RUN.

                     The rat bastard has gone too far this time.

                     He always did, didn’t he?

                     It’s why Clara never let Starchild near the newer ones...especially not him...

                     Tommy was confused, of course he was, but the stars wouldn’t tell him jack shit other than to run and he sure as fuck wasn’t doing that. So, he walked towards the barrier, to where he saw the light. And with one deep breath, he blocked out the screams of the stars and walked through.

                     Maybe for the last time.

                     At first, there was nothing at all, just the wind rustling the leaves in the trees and the light from the moon leading his way until he got to a clearing. In that clearing a boy stood. He was taller than Tommy, Tommy could tell that much even from the distance he was from him. Purple particles gathered around the boy, who had black and white skin and hair, his eyes a glowing purple. Tommy thought he was an enderman for a small second, but another look showed that, no, if anything he was a mix of enderman and...whatever the hell the white part of his skin was. A black suit with a red tie was what he wore and Tommy saw the crown on his head, concluding that that was the flash of light he’d occasionally see.

                     “Hello?” He said, taking a step towards the unmoving boy, who stared at him. It was kinda creeping him out to be honest. “Can you hear me?” One of the boy’s pointed ears twitched at that and Tommy hoped that was confirmation that yes, he can hear him. So, he continued, taking another step.

                     “Okay, um...question- what the fuck are you doing out here in...well, the middle of nowhere? It’s kinda fuckin weird, if you ask me...” The boy tilted his head as they were now a couple feet away from each other. After a moment of silence, Tommy awkwardly looked around.

                     “Look buddy, a conversation kinda only works if you respond so- I mean if your mute or something, that’s fine, maybe we can get you a piece of paper or a notebook- my name’s Tommy by the wa-“ At the mention of his name, the hybrid lunged forward, knocking Tommy to the ground.

                     “What the fuck?!” He yelled, kicking the hybrid away from him and jumping up, dagger held in front of him. The hybrid stumbling up like a puppet held by strings, his eyes trained on Tommy the entire time. This time, he pulled out a sword, netherite gleaming in the moonlight. With minimal effort, Tommy upgraded his own dagger into a sword as well via stars, just in time to block the boy’s sword as he lunged at him again.

                      Their swords clashed, the hybrid never actually swinging for anything vital, and when he would almost connect, it would mostly be near the legs, or somewhere to try to immobilize Tommy. Tommy was fine for the most part, the hybrid’s erratic swinging not really a match for his years of experience with a sword. But then teleported. One moment he was just blocking another swing and then: Vhoomp. Thump!

                     The boy hit the handle of his sword against Tommy’s back. Hard. To say it hurt was an understatement as Tommy fell forwards onto the ground.

                     “Ow! For prime’s sake, that was such a dick move, what the fuUCK!” He yelled as the boy picked him up by his leg. “Let go of me, you asshole! I’ll fucking kill you-“ The enderboy made no move, only staring at Tommy, his head tilted. Until Tommy, swung up and hit the boy in the forehead with his own, making said boy let go of Tommy and back up with a hiss. Tommy stumbled back, and for a split second, he could’ve sworn the boy’s eyes weren’t purple anymore. But then, the boy ran at him, sword abandoned and he launched at Tommy, initiating in wrestling match over his sword, which ultimately got thrown into the grass. Tommy reached for it only to get pushed into the dirt by the hybrid.

                     Tommy, far beyond annoyed at this point, started a small star. The boy, because of fucking course he did, saw and pushed his hand into the dirt, extinguishing it. Tommy groaned.

                     “Look just- What the fuck do you want, huh?! You were perfectly peaceful like 10 minutes ago- what the fuck is this about?!” He yelled, only for him to stare at Tommy, earning another groan. At this point, Tommy just faceplanted into the grass, or well, not like he had much of a choice, he was kinda pinned there. He turned his head to the side to glare at the hybrid, who stared back wide-eyed. Then he reached out and grabbed Tommy necklace.

                     “Woah wait- hold on- that’s- y-you can take anything else, just not that- Give it back-“ He struggled to get up as the enderboy stared at it, holding it by the chain, seemingly mesmerized by the star.

                     “Look I know it’s pretty and all but- that’s all I have- please- give it back-“ The boy’s gaze went back down to him as he dropped it onto the ground. Tommy immediately started reaching for it. The he noticed the boy’s foot raise up.

                     “Wait- wait no- Don’t you fucking dare- please- no-“ Tommy started to desperately grab for the necklace. That was his only way home. That was his only way to his mom. He can’t lose it. He can’t, he fucking can’t- And then the foot comes down. And Tommy hears a faint crack.

                     And it’s silent. For once in his life, as the stars shine; it’s quiet. He can feel the tears gather in his eyes, a small bit of hope still there as he stares at the boy’s shoe that has yet to move. Specs of stardust float out from under the shoe, and despair seizes his heart. The enderboy lifts his foot, and the stardust flood up to the sky, a chain was all that’s left. And suddenly, Tommy feels like those children who he’s seen at the orphanage, the ones that weren’t as accepting of their new life with no parents, the ones that still held onto the hope that ‘when I open my eyes, this will all be a dream, and I’ll wake up. I’ll be back home.’ Suddenly, Tommy is far from home and he doesn’t remember which direction is which and he feels small. He feels helpless.

                     But then a wave of anger washes over him, because how fucking dare this mortal do this? Though all the blood and tears and happiness and anger, that necklace was the one thing he valued most in the world, the one thing that made it out unscathed, and it gets crushed by a shoe? By a fucking shoe?! The sky is no longer silent, a symphony of anger, a jury for justice as Tommy can only feel himself drift into the void and the stars take over. As the stars hold him and promise him blood and revenge with a gentleness unfitting for what was about to happen. And Tommy lets it happen, his emotions a whirlwind of pain and anger.

                     He’s lost himself. He’s lost his way home. He’s lost his mother. And as any lost child does: he curls up and cries as his body becomes a vessel for bloodlust.

                     Two creatures not of this world fight like animals as their body’s owners are all too aware that they’re not in control, and yet they can do nothing but cry.

                     ---

                     Technoblade woke up to screaming. Not his usual morning screeching from Chat to get him to wake up, no, this was at least 20 times louder and it hurt. He could barely hear what any of them were saying.

                     BLOOD FOR THE BLOOD GOD.

                     TECHNOSAVE.

                     CLARA’S CHILD.

                      Noooo not my Allium Duo.

                     E

                     SAVE TOMMY SAVE TOMMY

                     OH NO NOT THE STARS

                     RANBOO NO!

                      Oh those poor boys-

                     Techno stumbled out of bed with a grumble. What did they mean ‘save Tommy’? Who the hell was Ranboo? And Clara?

                     “Quiet down Chat, I can’t do anything while you’re screaming.” He said, walking out of his room and to the stairs. Phil sat at the table, crows cawing from their place on the windowsill. Upon hearing footsteps, the avian looked up, a strained smile on his face.

                     “Hey mate. Can’t sleep?” Techno nodded.

                     “Chat.” Phil hummed in acknowledgement.

                     “My Chat’s been awfully loud as well. Can’t understand a word, but I can’t do much until they calm down. It doesn’t seem to be anything to do with blood, so I’m at least thankful for that.”

                     “They’re saying something about Tommy, some named Ranboo too- and the stars. There’s a lot all at once. Can’t hear much.”

                     “About Tommy? What about him?”

                     “Something about saving him. I don’t understand though, he should be in his room...right?” They look up towards the stairs leading to Tommy’s room, a sense of dread looming in the air. Phil stood up.

                     “Welp. Let’s go check.” Techno nodded and they made their way to Tommy’s room, careful not to wake any of the other members of the house, the sun barely even peaking over the horizon. Phil knocked softly.

                     “Tommy? You in there, mate?” No response. Phil knocks again, a bit louder this time.

                     “Tommy?” Another moment of silence. “We’re coming in.” Phil hesitated, waiting for a response. When, for the third time, no answer came, the opened the door.

                     The room was lived in, but nice. Semi-clean. Very much different from its inhabitant, who’s brash personality didn’t at all fit this type of room. A deer skin from a couple days ago hung above the desk, on it were some books, and even some journals that were written in. Techno found he couldn’t read most of what was written in it. Mostly from Tommy’s horribly rushed handwriting, but also because some of it didn’t seem entirely English. Techno shrugged it off, he could ask said boy later. At the end of the bed, a chest with a bit of clothes sticking out and a small sewing kit hidden between it and the wall. He wouldn’t question it. And finally, looking at the bed, unlike the rest of room, it was messy and unmade, the window wide open. They looked out the window, no sign of him. Phil sighed.

                     “Ah. Wil’s not gonna be happy about this.”

                     “About what? What are you two doing in Tommy’s room?” Wilbur asked from behind them. They turned, looking at each other for a moment before looking back at Wilbur.

                     “Let’s uh- let’s go downstairs and talk, huh?”

                     ---

                     Fundy didn’t usually wake up early. In fact, he was usually the last awake, or the second to last, Tommy liking to use up every second he could sleep. But there was a yell, and that woke him right up.

                     “What the fuck do you mean Tommy’s missing?!” He heard his father yell downstairs, and Fundy shot up. What did Dad just say? Surely whoever told him that was just playing a prank- there’s no way. Not his brother.

                     Fundy quietly snuck to the stairs to see his dad enraged as his grandpa and uncle sit there, a seemingly blank expression on their faces. But of course, they surely felt something about this. This was Tommy they were talking about.

                     “Just like I said Wil, he’s gone. Chat’s been screaming and we checked and he’s gone.” Grandpa said calmly.

                     “Nonono, he wouldn’t just disappear- Did Chat say anything about where he went? At all?” Dad said, Uncle Techno only shook his head.

                     “Nothing useful.” Grandpa gave Dad a small smile.

                     “I mean, hey, at least you don’t have to buy the kid anything more. Seems like he skipped town.” Dad scoffed.

                     “Phil, Tommy would never. He and Fundy are like brothers, they barely leave each other’s side! And not to mention Tubbo’s here- Tommy’s been looking forward to his visit, he’s rambled on about it for days! He wouldn’t just leave!”

                     “Well apparently he did. And what do you know of the kid- he’s barely been here for some months. It’d probably be beneficial if he left. He’s an orphan, right? He can handle himself.” Fundy decided he didn’t like Uncle Technoblade much anymore.

                     “Techno, he’s a fucking kid!” Fundy’s uncle snorted.

                     “He is far from that.”

                     “What the hell do you have against Tommy, huh?!”

                     “The stupid kid threatened me and Phil when we tried to leave, I-“ Silence filled the room.

                     “....when you tried to what?” His Dad said, his voice barely a whisper. When no answer came, a small laugh escaped him.

                     “I fucking knew it. I knew there was a reason- you never would’ve fucking stayed otherwise!” Dad’s voice rang out, Fundy curling in on himself at the unfamiliar yelling.

                     “Wil, mate, let’s all calm down-“

                     “Calm down?! Why the fuck would I do that?! You wake me up, tell me Tommy’s missing, then proceed to tell me you tried leaving again only to be stopped by a child who you said fucking threatened you?!”

                     “Uh- well- we stayed, didn’t we? And it sounds a lot worse than it is when you say it like that, mate...” 

                     “Really now? How would you describe it, Philza?” Grandpa swallowed, taking a moment to pause before answering.

                     “Look, I will admit. We fucked up a bit-“

                     “Pff- Understatement of the fucking year.”

                     “-but Wilbur, listen to me. We’ve thought about what we’ve done and we’re not leaving again. Even if it did take a child to tell us...A child who’s currently missing.” His father stared down at them, unamused and irritated.

                     “That was not a child- that was a deity of some kind, and honestly? I say good riddance. It was too loud and all over the place for this-“ Dad slammed a hand down onto the table.

                     “Tommy,” He said, the rage boiling up once again, “was a child. And he was my child. Just like Fundy, he is perfect in his own way, and he’s made this house so much better and you have the fucking audacity to think you can tell me that my kid is unnatural- and ‘good riddance’?! Techno, he looks up to you, you asshole! And you.” He glared at Phil for a minute before looking away, shaking his head. "I'm not even gonna start with that one." Techno huffed angrily at that.

                     “Wilbur, now is not the time to act high and mighty-“

                     “It’s not. So stop acting like your word is any better than mine. You two fully left me when I was barely 15, deciding I was ‘mature’ enough. And you know what? I did mature. But I wish I could have had some love from my family instead of fucking favoritism. And now I have my own family and I’m gonna give them all the love I didn’t get. So now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to find my son. If Fundy comes down, tell him I’ll be back.”

                     Fundy winced as the door was slammed, clutching his fox plushie tightly, reassuring himself that his dad had to find Tommy. That his bright brother had just gotten lost in the woods or forgot to ask permission to go to the village and was gonna come home with gifts, because he better get him something cool for pulling such a bad prank, and then he, Dad and Fundy would hug and it would all be okay.

                     Yeah.

                     It’s all gonna be okay.

Chapter Text

                 Tommy ran down the great halls of the Heavens, avoiding any and all Gods that could spot the little star child. Clutching the seeds close to his chest, he made his way through a little door portal leading to the Time Goddess’s domain. In the space, a girl sat with a large clock, said clock ticking for all eternity, only showing her what it brings.

                     “Clementine! I brought the seeds!” Tommy calls out, making the girl turn towards him with a smile.      

                     “Great! Now, come here and give em to me.” She said, standing up. Tommy ran over to her and dropped the seeds in her hand. She grinned, looking down at them.

                     “Wow, this is a lot! How’d you manage to get so many?!” Tommy laughed.

                     “You know me, I’m the sneakiest guy around!” Clementine giggles.

                     “Honestly, if you were a mortal, I wouldn’t be surprised if you were a raccoon hybrid.” Tommy flashes a bright smile.

                     “Alright, Raccoon Innit, let’s do this, shall we?” Tommy nods enthusiastically, choosing to ignore the joke about him. Clementine takes the seeds in her hands and throws them up in the air, the seeds landing all around them, some even in Tommy’s hair.

                     “Why’d you do that?! Now they’re all over the place!” Tommy pouts, which Clementine ignores momentarily. A small clock appears in front of her, and she gently guides the hands of it around clockwise. Tommy is confused before he notices. The seeds seem to dig themselves into the void of a ground before budding up and suddenly little pieces of green peek up from the ground, making the barren void green and lush with plants of all types. Grass takes its time, but it was the first, the small flowers and bushes coming second. Then the trees grow, some of all kinds looming above them, and they brought the vines, which curled around the branches and even the giant clock, making it somehow look more ancient than it already was. Tommy stared in awe as Clementine slowly stopped her clock.

                     “It’s beautiful, isn’t it?” She says softly, Tommy nods. Clementine looks over at him, letting out a snort as she grabs the flowers that had grown on his head. “I’ve never been to the overworld, so I like to steal from Nature when I can. Now I have you to steal them for me!” She says, sitting down on the grass, Tommy following.

                     “You’ve never been there?” Tommy asks, she shakes her head.

                     “Never had any reason to. You don’t really need to be there to keep the timeline in check, you know?”

                     “Well that’s just not fair! You have to go! There’re so many things there! Mum lets me look down there sometimes, and honestly, I was thinking of going myself at some point. You can come with me!” Her smile faltered on the last line.

                     “I would love to, I really would. But Tommy, I’m a Goddess. I can’t just leave for no reason. That’d be irresponsible of me. And besides, I can basically simulate what it’s like there. All the flowers and trees. I even got an egg once! I raised chickens! Most fun I’ve had in millennia.”

                     “Yeah, but there are people, and things that aren’t made by eggs. How will you know what they’re like?” Clem hummed in thought.

                     “Well then, you’ll just have to enjoy it for me! Show me with your stars when you get back, yeah?” Tommy nodded.

                     “Of course, Clem!” She smiled at him, then went back to fiddling with the flowers, her current interest being in the aconite that had sprouted between the two. Silence filled the air.

                     “Tommy?” Clem asked, not looking up from the purple flower.

                     “Yeah?” He glanced over to her. She finally looked up to him, a sorrow in her eyes that he couldn’t tell what from.

                     “Come back soon, please?”

---

                     Tommy shot up with alarm, taking in the room around him. This wasn’t home. There was stone surrounding him except for the bars in front of him. Prison. He was in a cell. Okay. He could deal with this, it’s fine. However, as he tried and failed to create an explosion, he looked down, seeing magic-cancelling handcuffs on his wrists. Shit. His cot slightly creaked as he swung his legs off of it.

                     He heard a shaky exhale and swiftly looked up, suddenly aware of the other person in the room. It was the enderboy. Said boy didn’t seem to be aware that he was awake, he just kept mumbling to himself in a language Tommy couldn’t bring himself to understand at the moment, his own mind too in a panic to care. Tommy’s feet hit the floor and then the boy’s head shot up, staring straight at him.

                     His eyes weren’t a glowing purple anymore, now a green and red, looking on the verge of tears.

                     “Um...hey...” Tommy started, unsure of how to go about this. “So, uh-“

                     “I’m so sorry.” The boy spoke, his voice sounding hoarse and like he’d been screaming.

                     “What?” Tommy replied.

                     “I’m so sorry- I didn’t mean to- I didn’t want to- I couldn’t control it, I just- I-“ The boy said, seemingly working himself up in his loss for words.

                     “Woah- hey- it’s- it’s okay...just take a deep breath- from what I can see there’s no rush to explain.” He said with a small laugh. The boy did as he advised, taking in a breath and slowly exhaling, doing that a couple times before finally looking over to Tommy again.

                     “Um...let me just say- I never wanted to hurt you- or whatever I did while I- you know...” Tommy nodded, a silent cue for him to continue. “I couldn’t control my body- I-I can’t really explain it that well, but...Dream takes over my body, controlling what I do- and- I guess that involved getting you? I don’t know- Just know- I didn’t want this to happen at all.” He finishes.

                     Tommy takes a minute to process everything. Not just what the boy had just said, but everything that had happened until that point. Everything leading up to being in this cell, with this boy.

                     “Who’s Dream?” He decided to ask first. The boy looked confused.

                     “You don’t know Dream? God of Chaos?” Tommy shook his head.

                     “Oh...well he’s a God. And I’m his...follower? I guess? That’s what he tells me, anyways....I don’t really want to be his follower...” Tommy hums in agreement.

                     “I’m Ranboo, by the way...” Ranboo says. Tommy looks in surprise. He totally forgotten about that. And he sure didn’t expect the boy to give it that easily.

                     “Ah. Nice to meet you, Ranboob.”

                     “That’s not-“

                     “For attacking me, I get to call you Ranboob until we get outta here, got it?” Tommy said with a smirk, standing up from his cot.

                     “I- yeah okay- why not...wait- get out of here?” Ranboo said, voice sounding amusing.

                     “Duh. We’re getting the fuck outta here. No way am I staying in this shithole.”

                     “We, uh- don’t really have a choice. Dream has magic-cancelling cuffs and-“

                     “And they stop your powers, yeah, yeah- I don’t give a shit. I don’t care what it takes, I’m getting outta here. And you’re coming with me.” Ranboo seemed confused.

                     “Why would you...” He began. Tommy got what he was trying to say, though.

                     “Well, you apologized, and I feel bad enough for you, so think of this as doing it out of the goodness of my heart.” Tommy says jokingly. Ranboo gave him a small laugh.

                     “Okay...how do you plan on getting out?” Ranboo asked.

                     “I have yet to work that out...But I will!” Tommy said. In that moment, someone entered the room.

                     “You won’t get out. It’s not possible.” They said. Tommy looked over at them. There were a couple things he noticed right off the bat, the most noticeable being the circular sphere with a smiley face serving as his head. No neck, just a ball floating. He wore a lime green hoodie, its brightness hurting Tommy’s eyes a bit. Tommy walked over to the bars while he spoke.

                     “Memememe, only a small percentage of people can get out of this prison, mememe- I don’t give a fuck, let me out.” Tommy was beyond pissed and he wasn’t going to play this dickhead’s games. 

                     “I’m afraid I can’t do that, Tommy.”

                     “How the fuck do you know my name?” Tommy asked.

                     “Eh, I do my research.” He said, now feet apart from Tommy and looming over him. Tommy knew there were people taller than him, sure, but this was just overdoing it.

                     “So, you must be Dream, huh? I can tell you’re a God.” Dream’s head tilted.

                     “Oh great, the child recognizes me.” He said, amused.

                     “Fuck off, I’m not a child. And I only knew you because Ranboob here told me who you were.” Dream hummed in acknowledgement, looking over at Ranboo, who curled into himself more.

                     “Let’s just get to the fuckin point- what do you want?” Tommy said. Dream looked back over at him.

                     “Well, you see, I’m the God of Chaos, you know? And I get bored easily, especially when all my friends are busy doing other things. And you made the simple mistake of staying in one place for too long. So, I decided, from one deity to another, that we could be friends!” Tommy processed that for a moment.

                     “And you kidnapped me for that?” Dream thought for a moment.

                     “I wouldn’t call it kidnapping- more like involuntary temporary relocation.”

                     “Kidnapping, dickhead. Also, what the hell do you mean I ‘stayed in one place for too long’?”

                     “Well, exactly that. You stayed too long around the same area, and I was able to pinpoint where you were. Also I don’t think you realized, but other than who you let see the star, other Gods can feel the pull towards a beacon star you put up.” Oh. Well shit, Tommy wishes he knew that before he did it.

                     “Oh. Shit. Welp, not my fault no one told me this shit.” Tommy said, crossing his arms to the best of his ability. Dream hummed.

                     “Dream? What are you going to do?” Ranboo asked, glaring at the God from his spot on his cot.

                     “Well. I think that’s fairly simple. What do people do when they’re bored?”

                     “Not kidnap a minor- with a family, might I add.”

                     “They’re not your family, and you’re not a minor.”

                     “Look at me. Does this look like someone who’s older than 13? No. You’re a stalker and a weirdo, I hate you, let me out.” Dream sighed.

                     “Tommy. I’m not letting you out. There are some things I need to do, but I’ll be back. We’ll talk more then.” With that, Dream turned and walked out of the room.

                     “Prick.” Tommy mumbled, going over and sitting on his respective cot.

                     “You can say that again...” Ranboo said.

                     “I need to be getting home soon- I can’t even hear the stars, so it must be day. And if that’s the case, then everyone’s gonna know I’m missing.”

                     “At least someone knows you’re gone.” Ranboo said sadly. Tommy looked over to the hybrid.

                     “You don’t have anyone?” Ranboo shook his head.

                     “Oh...sorry to hear that.”        

                     “It’s fine. It happened a while ago. I can barely remember what they looked like.”

                     “That’s just sadder, boob boy.” Ranboo shrugged.

                     “Can’t remember a lot before being here. Only bits and pieces. I have a really bad memory.”

                     “Well, we better get you a memory book or something, huh? I’ll buy you a book when we escape. Hell, I’ll actually probably just make one.” Ranboo looked surprised.

                     “What?”

                     “That’s...surprisingly thoughtful of you.”

                     “I’m not fuckin’ heartless, and besides, it’s not gonna be helpful if I have to keep reminding your dumbass about things.” Tommy said, offended Ranboo would think he had that much of an ego. The hybrid laughed softly.

                     “Yeah...thanks.”

                     “Mhm..”

                     “Tommy?”

                     “What?”

                     “I didn’t do anything too bad to you, right? While I was fighting you?” Tommy paused, thinking for a moment. Stardust flew up to the sky, leaving only a chain in its place. Tommy’s lost it. He’s lost his necklace. His way home.

                     “No. It’s fine, Ranboob.” He didn’t want to make the boy more worried than he already was. Besides. It’s not like he could fix it.

                     “I’m fine.”

                ---

                     Back at the house, a simple and soft knock was heard at the door. Techno huffed, standing up and walking over, answering the door.

                     In the doorway stood a girl, a moth hybrid with light brown hair in a half ponytail, gray eyes staring up at Technoblade. She clutched a messenger bag, holding what seemed to be some papers and other items.

                     “Hello. My name is Clementine. Have you seen Tommy?” 

Chapter Text

                     The clock ticked on, the only thing in the silence that is her domain. Clementine laid there, staring at what would be the ceiling. Suddenly, the clock chimed.

                     ‘There has been a change to fate. A change to what is to come in this world.’

                     “Really now? And what is it? Tell me, oh ancient clock.” She said sarcastically. The updates she usually got were boring, or about something small that would lead to things that ultimately didn’t matter.

                     ‘A blood relative to the stars will fall at the hands of Chaos, and the sky itself will wither and fall with this loss. The Goddess of Space will wail until her lungs give out, a sadness will befall those around, for his miracles will fade with him.’

                     Huh. That was a weird one. What did it mean fall to Chaos? And why would Clara care about some- oh. Oh. Clementine shot up.

                     “Tommy? No, you can’t be- oh gods- th-there’s a way to fix this, right?”

                     ‘As there always is. Fate is not a permanent punishment. It can be molded and changed based on certain factors.’

                     “Okay. Um...I need to check on Tommy immediately. What are my followers doing?”

                     ‘The majority are preparing for big events, or already doing something to help your work be more manageable.’

                     “Ah. Okay.  Guess that’s off the table..."

                     She thought for hours upon hours, before finally concluding: She needed to go herself. Now, there were a couple problems with this one, first and foremost being: she’d never been there. She didn’t know whether she was actually allowed to leave. She didn’t even leave her domain except if pulled to a meeting of the Gods or when stealing from Nature, and if she were more rational about this, she would’ve considered that. But she wasn’t. Her friend was in danger.

                     Wait! She pulled up Tommy’s life clock, looking  through the vision it brought, and like she feared, someone had covered it up. Fuck.

                     She stood up, stretching for a moment. She hadn’t exactly been paying attention to what Tommy was doing, too busy caught up in her own work. Even if the majority of it was laying down on the ground and listening to a clock. She walked over to the door portal.

                     “Welp. Here we go. You better be fucking okay Tommy, I swear to me.” She grumbled, stepping through. Suddenly, everything was ten times brighter than it was in her room and she loved it. She wished she could stay there and soak up every second of it, but she had a job to do. Maybe after.

                     Clem walked around the Heavens, eventually reaching the portal room. Most Gods could just teleport, but she hadn’t exactly practiced the skill. Hadn’t needed to. She kind of regrets not doing it as she steps onto the platform. Clara had made it, funnily enough. Shifted space to get you to where you wanted. It looked reminiscent of the End Portal that Exde so proudly guards. They hadn’t found someone willing to be God of a place that used to be a civilized kingdom, now reduced to a dragon and screeching enderman.

                     She shook her head of those thoughts. She needed to focus. A small see-through pad appears with the question of coordinates. As she filled in the pad with the last place Tommy had been, the small empty slots were filled with clocks, something to show who it was teleporting. Finally, taking a deep breath, she confirmed the coordinates, and she felt her body get pushed and pulled before finally she was in the Overworld.

                     Clementine looked around. It was a field. it would be nice, if not for the blood around where she was and items scattered across it. Two swords and a chain to a necklace. She wondered what happened here. Looking up, she saw the stars and smiled. Clara and Tommy were always proud of the sky they created. And as if on cue, Clem noticed a star that shined a tiny bit brighter than the rest. A pull towards the direction made her feet move of their own accord. Maybe Tommy was there.

                     She eventually got to a large cabin, then lights turned on, meaning someone was home. Good. She carefully knocked, and a pink haired piglin hybrid opened the door. She recognized the presence as godly, though she had no time to be formal with a fellow God. She had a friend on the line.

                     “Hello. My name is Clementine. Have you seen Tommy?”

                     The piglin blinked in surprise. Perhaps he wasn’t expecting someone of her size. She had always been called small amongst other gods, but it was a comfortable height, sue her.

                     “Uh...do you know him?” The piglin asked.

                     “I wouldn’t be asking if I didn’t.” He nodded.

                     “Right, right. Uh- come inside I guess.” He opened the door more for her. She quickly stepped inside, looking around.

                     “So, where is he? Is he causing you all trouble? I won’t guarantee I won’t help him cause it, but-“

                     “Tommy’s missing.” He spoke behind her, causing her to pause. So it’d already happened. Shit.

                     “Ah. That’s not good. Do you know what happened?” She asked.

                     “No, other than he was here last night and then was gone in the morning.” Clem hummed.

                     “How do you know Tommy anyways?”

                     “I’m an old friend of sorts. And honestly, I’m surprised you don’t know who I am, all the Gods know about me one way or another.”

                     “Gods?” Techno asked, eyebrow raised. She looks at him.

                     “Do you not...? You know what, I could care less. I have a job to do right now.” As she talked, Phil walked into the room to see the two standing there.

                     “Oh, hello.” Phil walked over to them. “What’s going on here?”

                     “I came to visit my friend and I’ve been told he’s missing. I need to find him.”

                     “You know Tommy?” Techno leaned towards Phil.

                     “Old friend or something.” He mumbled, Phil nodding.

               “Is there a reason you need him? Wilbur’s already out looking.” Clementine looked confused for a moment.

               “No, not particularly...and Wilbur...” She pulled up a small clock, staring at it intently for a moment before exclaiming. “Oh! Wilbur Soot! So, he’s the person Tommy’s been staying with. Okay. We’ll have to wait till he gets back.”

              “How did you-“

                 “Goddess of Time things, I’ll explain it to you all later. Where is Fundy by the way? I’d love to meet the self-proclaimed brother of the lamp I call my friend.”

                     “Lamp?” Techno asked, amused.

                     “He should be upstairs.” Phil supplied. Clem nodded.

                     “And yes, he is a lamp. My favorite lamp. Very bright when he wants to be. Literally. I don’t know how much he lets his powers loose these days, but sometimes he used to be so bright I was almost blinded.” She said with a laugh.

                     “So he isn’t human. I knew it.” Techno said.

                     “Oh shit, he didn’t tell you all? He’s gonna kick my ass- welp, Fundy time! Goodbye!” She ran off towards the stairs. As she got up, she heard faint sniffling coming from the room. Child was crying. Oh, no, that’s absolutely unacceptable.

                     She softly opened the door, looking in to see a small fox hybrid with his arms around his knees and a fox plush by the foot of his bed. Her heart tugged at the sight.

                     “Oh you poor thing...what’s the matter?” She asked, walking into the room, sitting besides Fundy. He looked up at her.

                     “Wh-Who are you...?”

                     “That doesn’t matter right now...what’s wrong, little fox?” Now, she was never one for comfort, but she’d seen Clara do it many times.

                     “T-Tommy went missing and Dad’s mad- and- and I don’t know where he is, and I’m scared...what if he never comes back...I don’t want Tommy gone forever!” He said with a sob, pulling his legs closer in an attempt to hide himself.

                     “Tommy won’t be gone forever. I know that much for sure. He’ll be back in here before you know it, doing whatever domestic shi- stuff. Stuff he’s been up to. There’s no need to worry...he’s too stubborn to stay gone for long.” She said quietly.

                     “Y-You know Tommy...?” She nods.

                     “My best friend. And I know him well enough to say that he’s gonna be back and okay. It’s all gonna be okay.” Hearing these words, Fundy practically leaped into her arms, a hug which she happily accepted, soothing the boy as he cried. They sat there for a few minutes before he finally spoke again.

                     “I miss Tommy...” He said, voice muffled by her sweater.

                     “I know...I’m sure he misses you just as much, if not more.” He looks up at her.

                     “Really...?”

                     “Really.” Fundy gave her a small smile, wiping his eyes.

                     “Sorry for crying on you..” He said, backing up. Clem shook her head.

                     “It’s fine. Everyone needs to cry sometimes.”

                     “Who are you anyways?” He tilted his head.”

                     “Oh! I forgot about that. My name is Clementine. It’s nice to finally meet you, Fundy.” She said. Fundy’s eyes widened.

                     “You’re Clementine?” She nodded. He beamed. “Tommy’s told me about you! He said you’re a Goddess!” She laughed.

                     “Yeah? I sure am. I control time.” Fundy was practically vibrating from excitement.

                     “Why are you here? I thought Gods didn’t go to the Earth??” Fundy asked.

                     “Well, usually I don’t. It’s actually my first time here if I’m being honest, but I felt something was off, so I decided to come visit Tommy...seems I made the right choice.” She said, Fundy nodded.

                     “He was here last night...I don’t know what happened...”

                     “Hm. Well, we’ll have to find him once your Dad gets here, huh? Tommy does tend to run off, even if it’s a blatant trap.” Fundy’s face fell a bit, an uncomfortable silence as he hugs his recently grabbed fox plush close. Clem cleared her throat.

                     “Hey, you wanna help me figure everything out before your dad gets home? I can show you my powers!” She said, Fundy immediately brightened. Clementine can see why Tommy liked the boy.

                     ---

                     Wilbur trudged back to the house after a while of both calling for Tommy and just thinking. He knows Tommy would never run or anything. So that led to a couple options, none of which he liked. He got lost trying to find something, he’s at the village, (which is very unlikely, but he has to at least check), and the worst option: he got kidnapped. Or killed, but Wilbur didn’t even want to consider that one.

                     Swinging the door open, he was greeted with Phil making tea, Techno sitting on the couch in thought, Schlatt glaring at Techno from the other couch and Tubbo basically glaring holes into an empty cup, waiting to be filled by Phil. Said man turned towards Wilbur.

                     “Wil, hey. How are you feeling?” The man asked.

                     “Like shit. Have you told them?” Phil nodded. Wilbur hummed.

                     “Where’s Fundy?”

                     A giggle erupting into the room, Fundy along with Clem appeared at the top of the stairs, Fundy getting a piggy-back ride from the moth hybrid. Clementine stared right at Wilbur for a second before a grin appeared on her face, and she jumped down from the top of the stairs. Wilbur was about to yell out to them, but suddenly they slowed midair by her wings spreading open, not big like Phil’s but enough to glide down the stairs, going down to the ground with ease. Everyone stared as she put Fundy down. She walked over to Wilbur.

                     “Wilbur Soot! It’s very nice to meet you.”

                     “Uh...hello?” He said, obviously surprised. “What was that about- I-“

                     “Don’t mind that. I’ve been waiting for you to arrive. You’re Tommy’s father, am I right?”

                     “How do you-“

                     “We’re old friends. My name is Clementine. I heard he’s gone missing, which I find unacceptable. I wanted to talk to you about getting him back.”

                     “Okay, hold on- slow the fuck down, kid. First off. You’re friends with Tommy?” Clementine nodded.

                     “And you’ve heard he’s missing...so you’re here?” Another nod.

                     “Originally, I came to visit him, but I got the news and so I’ve decided to help you find the fucker. He’s not allowed to go missing on my watch. I can’t even find him on his life clock!” She showed a small clock, the screen where the clock would be, blank.

                     “Life clock...?”

                     “She’s a Goddess.” Fundy mumbled, Tubbo looked up.

                     “Wait what? You’re the Clementine Tommy was talking about?” He asked.

                     “The one and only.” She said, look over at the goat boy. “And as the best goddess ever, I’ve decided to help my friend before everything goes to shit and his mother gets pissed.”

                     “His mother? I thought he was an orphan-“ Wilbur said.

                     “Okay. I really need to explain everything to you. Because if this is what I think it is, we don’t need any communication problems or people making a fuss over feeling betrayed by not getting told something. Cause I swear if I hear one word I will fucking kill you.” Clem calmly explained, despite her words not at all being calm. Wilbur laughed.

                     “I can see why you and Tommy get along.”

                     “I rubbed off on him when we were small, what can I say?”  She said with a smile, before clapping her hands together.

                     “Alright! Gather round everyone. Save your questions or prepare for me to get off track.” She pauses, pulling out a small book with some strange language on the front.

                     “Okay, hold your breath momentarily, or else you may feel like your lungs are getting torn out. Ready? Here we go!” And then, darkness.

                     They opened their eyes to a void, a clock looming above them, Clementine sitting on top of it.

                     “Welcome everyone! I thought I could explain everything better this way. In my own space. This is way overkill, but Tommy always loved when I did shows like this, so might as well do it for his family.” They all stared in disbelief.

                     “So, the story of Tommy.” She opened the book. “Let’s reintroduce you to him, yeah?”

                     Wilbur was the first to shake out of his shock. “What the hell are you talking about?!” Clem laughed.

                     “I’m telling you about Tommy, weren’t you listening?”

                     “I told you, he wasn’t human.” Technoblade huffed. Wilbur glared at him.

                     “Neither any of you, but you don’t see me complaining.” Clementine said.

                     “We’re just hybrids. He’s- he’s something else entirely.” Techno said. Clem hummed.

                     “Well you aren’t wrong. Let me start this off. Tommy was made from the Goddess of Space’s stars, herself becoming bored and sad.” As she spoke, the numbers on the clock flew off, dancing around them and morphing into figures, of the Goddess moving around, forming Tommy.

                      "So she just wanted another project?" Technoblade asked, earning a glare from the goddess.

                     “Tommy’s made of stars!” Fundy yelled. Clementine nodded, choosing to ignore Techno's remark.

                     “He is! Which means he isn’t really whatever age he told you, sorry to say. Mentally, he might be though. He was always a child at heart-“

                     “He’d kill you for saying that.” Wilbur mumbled fondly.

                     “No doubt. But Tommy was the child she’d always wanted. The thing she needed. We met when he was smaller. I was just starting out as the Time Goddess. Needless to say, I was lonely. We got along pretty well. He was my little lamp.” She said with a laugh. “Very loud, but very bright.” The forms changed to Clementine and Tommy, running around. Tommy leading the way as they ran around Clara and other gods.

                     “Why was he on Earth then?” Tubbo asked, by now they’ve all sat down in the void, listening with interest.

                     “He’d always loved the place. The people and such. He wanted to bring me along. I couldn’t at the time. He left when he was about 10 physically.”

                     “How old was he actually?” Phil asked.

                     “Not important. Anyways. That’s the basics of what happened. You want me to get into the good stuff?" Fundy and Tubbo nodded furiously. Clementine clapped her hands together.

                     “We’re both gonna be new to this one, so let’s watch Tommy’s adventures on Earth!" She jumped down and smiled as the huge clock lit up to show Tommy's life.

                     He always loved to have stories told like this. She wonders if he still does. 

Chapter Text

                   “Oh Dreaaaaaam!” Tommy yelled for probably the 78^th time as Ranboo stares at him from his cot. Who knows. All he knows is that Dream can hear him through that guard and he’s slowly annoying the shit out of him. Good. “Dream, c’mon, boob boy doesn’t have anything to talk about. You said you wanted to be friends? I won’t be your friend, but I’ll talk to you for five minutes and then punch your lights out. I can do it. I will do it.” The guard sighed, his voice distorted and tired.

                     “Tommy. I’ve told you. We can talk more later. I’m doing some things at the moment.”

                     “Does it seem like I care?”

                     “You’re being annoying, Tommy.”

                     “I think I’m amazing sounding. You’re just bad of hearing.”

                     “Yeah, because you won’t shut up.”

                     “Oh. Ouch. Dick.” A hum of acknowledgement.

                     Tommy tapped his foot on the floor, unsure of what to do. One thing he hates? Silence. Another thing he hates? Having nothing to do. And those combined are just fucking terrible.

                     “You should stop aggravating him.” Ranboo said.

                     “Eh. He should stop kidnapping minors. It’s illegal, and for the record I am 13.”

                     “You are far from 13.”

                     “And you’re ruining my chance of being 13 to people.”

                     “It’s going to come out eventually. You should be thanking me.”

                     “I’ll fucking fight you. I will. Square up, bitch.” The guard looked over, amused.

                     “You want to fight?”

                     “I mean. Sure. Anything to get out of this fucking hellhole of a place. Nothing to fucking do, I might as well beat up some green bastard.”

                     “Tommy...” Ranboo starts.

                     “No Ranboo, it’s fine. Actually, I’ve got just the thing for this.” A look of horror appears on Ranboo’s face as the guard opens up the cell door.

                     “Tommy-“ He got up, grabbing Tommy’s arm. “Let’s be rational here- please-“ Tommy rolled his eyes.

                     “I’ve got this Ranboo. Besides, what’s the worst that can happen?”

                     ---

                     Barely dodging an arrow as he ran through the woods, Tommy realized he in fact did not have this. Dream had brought him out to this secluded woodland area and told him that they were playing ‘Manhunt’, as he called it. The game was simple: get enough gear to kill something that Dream wouldn’t elaborate on more than it was ‘the most dangerous thing here’, all while one chases the other.

                     Normally, this wouldn’t be a problem at all. However, Dream had made Tommy’s magic-cancelling cuffs bracelets, so no powers. And Dream himself was the one hunting him. And he was good at this. He was barely missing Tommy, and not to mention he wouldn’t stop fucking talking.

                     “C’mon Tommy, just give up! I think you’ll find the cell better than this. I’m being generous and barely missing you. If you get hurt, no one’ll be there to patch you up. Ranboo can’t do anything.”

                     Another arrow. Tommy only had a stone pickaxe and a sword, Dream did not let up at all.

                     “Fuck off, you green bitch! I’m not going back to that damned cell!” Tommy yelled. He could hear a laugh from behind him.

                     “Gods- this is why I picked you, Tommy. Way too much spirit and determination. So fun.” The way he said that made Tommy unsettled.

                     Tommy found a small cave that had easy escapes. He found 3 iron before Dream caught up. Just enough for an axe. Quickly crafting it, he ran off. Some would argue he should’ve made armor, but Tommy disagrees. He can dodge quick enough, and- thunk! An arrow in his arm. Tommy shouted in pain.

                     “Fucking hell! I thought you said you wouldn’t-“

                     “I changed my mind. You weren’t listening anyways.”

                     “You dickhead!” At least it wasn’t his good arm. He kept running and running until- a clearing. In the middle sat a kid, around his age. He had curly black hair with purple tips. Small wings poked out of his back. Tommy stared at him. Slowly, he turned, looking at Tommy. His eyes were red, like he’d been crying.

                     “...are you okay?” Tommy asked, inching closer. At this the kid smiled, his form mutating and changing until a large dragon took his place. Tommy stared, wide eyed. So this is what Dream had meant. As the dragon opened it’s mouth to let out a fireball, Dream shot out of one of the trees, slashing the dragon, it going out with a puff of smoke and a shriek that made Tommy stumble back and fall over. Dream gracefully hit the ground, letting out a hum. Tommy barely had time to pull his arms away from his ears before a sword was at his throat.

                     “Welp. Seems like I win!” Dream said, his voice bright.

                     “That- he was a kid- wait- I don’t-“ Tommy was still trying to catch up with everything that had just transpired.

                     “No, that was a illusion. Though he really could’ve killed you, had I not stepped in. You should be thanking me, Tommy.”

                     “Right...can you put your sword away? I get it- you’re simply better, you cheating prick.”

                     “I didn’t cheat. I just got supplies faster.”

                     “Sure you did.”

                     “Tommy, it’s not nice to assume.”

                     “What are you, my fuckin dad? Put the sword away. And can you help with this arrow? It’s fuckin jammed in there.” Dream sighed.

                     “I told you, I wouldn’t help if you got hurt. Deal with it yourself.” He said, putting the sword away.

                     “Wha- That’s not fuckin fair!”

                     “Tommy, you’ve been in wars before. I know you know that life isn’t fair. You aren’t a kid. Stop acting like one.”

                     “How the fuck do you know about what I’ve done, huh?”

                     “We’re done playing Manhunt. Let’s get you back to the cell.” Dream said, grabbing Tommy.

                     “No! Answer me, you bastard!”

                     “We can talk later. All I did was treat you to a fun game.” Tommy scoffed.

                     “Like that was fucking fun.” Dream looked back at him, smile never leaving his face.

                     “I think you’ll grow to like it, Tommy.”

                     “Fat fucking chance, but okay.”

                     ---

                     As he got into the room, Ranboo’s eyes immediately went to Tommy’s wound.

                     “Tommy! What the hell happened?! Are you okay? Wha-“

                     “I’m fine boob boy. Tis a scratch as they say.”

                     “You’re bleeding and there’s an arrow in your arm.” He wasn’t exactly wrong. There was a large amount of blood that would surely only get to be more if they left it untreated. Thinking about it now, they don’t have any bandages or magic to make any, so even if they did pull it out, he’d only be bleeding more and then he’d pass out, he’s already feeling pretty light headed and- Tommy sighed.

                     “Yeah, but I’ll be fine. Not much I can do about it. Dream got me and unless you have any bandages, I don’t think there’s much we can do.” Tommy said. Ranboo looked down at his shoes.

                     “That’s what I thought.” Tommy mumbled, going to his cot.

                     “You can’t just leave it like that...” Ranboo said.

                     “What do you suggest I do, hm?”

                     “I dunno- maybe we can make makeshift bandages? I can use my coat and-“

                     “No, I wouldn’t want to ruin your perfectly good coat. You never know when you may need it.” Tommy said, looking over at the injury, poking at it slightly and wincing with the pain. Ranboo’s face grew determined.

                     “Nope. We’re doing that. I don’t go out much anyways, and this place is pretty warm for prison standards I guess- so I can sacrifice it.” Tommy opened his mouth to protest, but Ranboo grabbed ahold of the arrow, making him yell in pain.

                     “What the fuck man?! Warn a guy before you touch his wound, yeah?”

                     “Sorry, sorry- so how do we get this out?” Ranboo asked.

                     “I guess the only way that’s possible. Pull it.” Ranboo winced in sympathy.

                     “That’s not gonna be good.” Tommy shrugged.

                     “Only way.”

                     “I-I’m sure that’s not-“ Ranboo tried to reason. Tommy put a hand on his shoulder a grim face of determination on his face.

                     “Ranboo. Just pull it out before I change my mind.” They stared at each other for a moment.

                     Ranboo pulled it out with a tug.

                     A scream was heard around the prison.

                     ---

                     “I hate you. I hate you so much.”

                     “You were the one who told me to pull.” Ranboo said, wrapping the ripped off fabric around Tommy’s arm.

                     “I didn’t expect you to actually listen to me!” Ranboo stared at him with a tired look.

                     “You would’ve gotten mad at me if I didn’t.”

                     “And yet, here I am. Mad at you because you did.”

                     “You’re right, I just can’t win.” He said, looking back at his hands to wrap the makeshift bandage.

                     “You’re a bitch.”

                     “Okay Tommy.”

                     “I fuckin hate you.”

                     “Okay Tommy.”

                     “Stop fucking saying that!” Ranboo looked directly into his eyes.

                     “....okay Tommy.”

                     Another yell was heard. This time of anger.

                     ---

                     “So you’re telling me. I’m not gonna be able to move my arm.”

                     “I mean, he hit a pretty bad place. It won’t move without hurting until it fully heals. So I would suggest not moving it too much.”

                     “Bullshit. I can move my arm just fine.”

                     “Tommy, I will start saying ‘okay tommy’ again.”

                     “You fucking dare, I will start stabbing shit. Also take your crown or whatever.”

                     “How about let’s not.”

                     “You will leave me no choice if you ‘okay Tommy’ me.”

                     “Mhm.”

                     “I’m serious.”

                     “Mhm.” Suddenly, there was a silence. Too long of a silence. Ranboo looked over to Tommy.

                     “Tommy?”

                     “It’s night time.”

                     “What?”

                     “The stars. I can hear them.”

                     “Oh? Really?? You can hear things too?” Tommy nodded.

                     “What are they saying?”

                     “Asking if I’m okay. Stuff about my family. Anything really.”

                     “Hm. Mine just passive aggressively tells me I’ve done everything and sounds like Dream.” Tommy sputters out a laugh.

                     “H-Holy shit- are you okay man?”

                     “Hahaha. No.” Ranboo says with a smile. Tommy gives a small smile back.

                     “Sorry I’m bein all mopey and shit- I just- I had a necklace...and...I could talk to my mum with it...and now I can’t...”

                     “Where’s the necklace?” Ranboo asked.

                     “...it’s gone.” Tommy mumbled.

                     “Oh. I’m sorry.”

                     “Don’t apologize. Wasn’t your fault.”

                     “Is there a way to get a new one?” Tommy hummed in thought.

                     “I mean, maybe if I got these cuffs off. Think you can figure that out?” Tommy said with a small laugh. Ranboo thought for a moment.

                     “Hm. Maybe. Though most of them require magic, sooo-“ Tommy nodded in understanding.

                     “It’s fine Ranboo. We’ll work it out. Hopefully.”

                     “Yeah. Hopefully.” Both went quiet again as Tommy stared at the ceiling and Ranboo at the ground.

                     “Tommy?”

                     “Yeah?”

                     “...you think I can come with you?” Tommy looked back at Ranboo.

                     “Huh?”

                     “I mean...I don’t really- have anywhere to go, so...Just- just until I can find somewhere else to stay-” Tommy stared for a minute before a smile appeared on his face.

                     “Of course, boob boy. I’m sure the rest of the Soots would love ya. I know Fundy would. Kid loves anything strange.”

                     “Are you calling me strange?”

                     “Well you aren’t exactly normal, ey?”

                     “That is just offensive.”

                     “Sue me.”

                     “You don’t have a lawyer.”

                     “I do. Big Law’s got my back.”

                     “Big Law?” Ranboo said, amused.

                     “Oh yeah. Tubbo’s alter ego. He knows the law.”

                     “Yeah?”

                     “Mhm- let me tell you-“

                     The two talked into the night, keeping each other company. Tommy would never admit it, but Ranboo was good company. They were similar in a way, and bounced off each other well enough.

                     Maybe this wouldn’t be so bad.

                     ---

                     The next morning, the doors leading to the cells burst open, and Dream along with two others came in. Tommy recognized the other two as godly as well.

                     “Dream, this is by far the worst idea you’ve ever had! What the hell were you thinking?!” The first one yelled. The man had some glasses on his face, brown hair seeming both straightened out and frazzled at the same time. Man was seriously stressed. Tommy couldn’t blame him. He wore a blue shirt with a red square in the middle. Tommy was too far away too read the text that was on there; that, and there was a red cloak blocking his view. A small mushroom hat sat on his head as he continued his rant.

                     “Do you have any idea of how dead we are if Clara finds out about this?! If you hurt him at all, Clara will have our heads made into stars or something!” The man yelled, glancing over at Tommy.

                     “George, it’s fine. I’ve got it all under control.” Dream said.

                     “It sure seems like it by the way he’s glaring at us. Also, is his arm hurt? Oh man, you really fucked up now-“ The other man said. He had black hair, a white bandana, along with horns, poking through the lazily brushed hair. He wore a white shirt with a black undershirt, an image of a small fire on his white shirt. A tail waved around, seeming to show no care for the situation at hand. Tommy wondered if he knew Bad. George seemed to short-circuit at hearing that Tommy was hurt, putting his head into his hands and groaning.

                     “Dream!” George yelled.

                     “Not my fault he was an idiot.”

                     “I’m right here, you dick.” Tommy said.

                     “We know, Tommy.” Dream said, crossing his arms.

                     “Dream, do you even understand how much you’ve fucked up right now? His mother is one of the oldest gods around! She could get Exde to take away our Godhood!” George said.

                     “You guys will get your godhood taken away, I was born like this. No way Bad will let me fall.” So he did know Bad.

                     “Shut it, Sapnap!” George snapped at apparently Sapnap, who responded with a small laugh.

                     “Alright everyone, listen- I know that I’m a big deal and all, but all can be fixed if you just let me and my associate Ranboo out.” Tommy said, seeing a opening to get out. Ranboo right now was sitting on his cot, wearily staring out towards the three Gods.

                     Dream sighed. “No, Tommy, I’m not letting you out.”

                     “Fine then, I’ll sick Clementine on you once we get out of here.”

                     “You’re not getting out of here. And what’s the Goddess of Time gonna do? She doesn’t even leave her domain.” Dream said.

                     “Oh, she’ll leave. She’ll get your ass, and so will my mum. I’ll tell her you locked me in a cell and didn’t let me be a minor.” Tommy crossed his arms. Dream strode over, getting face to face with Tommy.

                     “How are you gonna tell her, huh? I broke your necklace. I made sure there was nothing left of it.” Tommy froze at that. So it was intentional? Tommy glared at him.

                     “You absolute bitch. I swear, once I get out here I’ll kick your fucking ass- I’ll strangle you, you green son of a bitch. You and your stupid games and horribly colored hoodie-“

                     “Dream.” Sapnap said, getting Dream’s attention once again, turning towards the two gods once more.

                     “Look, Tommy’s really well known amongst the older gods. Once they notice he’s missing, all hell will break lose. We might as well let him out now before things get messy.” Dream tilted his head.

                     “Isn’t that the point? Chaos is my thing after all.”

Chapter Text

                     Wilbur sat, still trying to wrap his head around everything. It seems everyone was trying to do the same, but some were more surprised than others. Phil and Techno seemed to go and talk amongst themselves after it. Techno had especially been surprised when the goddess showed his time as fucking Theseus of all people. Honestly, what were the chances.

                     Fundy had mostly been excited to just see the stories, Wilbur and Schlatt both shielding Fundy and Tubbo from the gruesome bits. It was like watching a movie, but it was someone’s actual life and Wilbur was just more concerned on how the fuck Tommy was still happy and alive. He’d went through a lot, near death situations, war, abandonment, abuse, and yet he still wore that bright grin he always had at the end of the day. Talking to his mother through a necklace shaped like a star. Wilbur won’t complain though, he’d hate to see Tommy sad.

                     The two children were currently upstairs, leaving Wilbur and Schlatt, the two sitting on the couches.

                     “So...what do you think?” Schlatt asked. Wilbur sighed.

                     “Honestly? It’s a lot.”

                     “No shit. Not even my kid and that was a lot.”

                     “If I’m being honest? I couldn’t care less.” Schlatt looked towards Wilbur.

                     “Huh?”

                     “I don’t care if he’s some kid from the stars who’s lived hundred of lives- he’s still Tommy, my son, who’s missing. We should be finding him.”

                     “I’m glad you see it how it is, Wilbur.” A voice said from behind. The two whipped their heads towards Clementine, who stood at the bottom of the stairs. She stepped off the last step, going over and sitting down besides Wilbur.

                     “Honestly, I’m glad Tommy found someone like you. Like I said, I showed you his life to explain what he was and where he came from. Nothing more, nothing less. He’s still Tommy at the end of the day. Still Fundy’s brother and your kid. I was listening to Phil and Technoblade earlier, and they’re having a whole meltdown about him.” She said with a laugh.

                     “Yeahhh- I’ll have to talk to him about that when we get him back. Philza and Technoblade can get paranoid and he didn’t help at all.”

                     “Tommy’s an act first, think later type of guy.”

                     “I can tell.”

                     Schlatt got up. “Alright, I’m gonna go see what the hell those two are up to up there. You guys have your conversation.”

                     “Oh- Schlatt you don’t have to-“          

                     “No, it’s fine Wil. It’s too quiet up there anyways, and I barely know the kid.”

                     “Alright...” Schlatt goes.

                     “...so. What are we gonna do about Tommy?” Clementine asks.

                     “Well. I think finding him might be start.”

                     “Oh, I think I have an idea of who might be behind this. I might be wrong, but I doubt it. We’re gonna have to try to keep Clara from knowing, however. She’d come down to save Tommy in a heartbeat.”

                     “Then why don’t we get her?”

                     “Oh you don’t understand. If she gets too angry, I guarantee that half the planet will become nothing more than a crater.” Clem said. Wilbur sat up in surprise.

                     “Oh. Gods, that’s not good.”

                     “Isn’t that an understatement. I think whoever took him planned ahead, because I found his necklace missing a piece.” She pulled a chain out of her bag, holding it for Wilbur to see.

                     “The star...well, what happened? Surely you can see how it broke.”

                     “That’s the problem. This person managed to block everything related to Tommy being kidnapped. But he’s definitely okay. We’d know if he died.”

                     “How would we?”

                     “Huge explosion. Not to mention the sky would change. Clara would know immediately.”

                     “Ah. That’s fair.”

                     At that moment, giggles were heard as two kids ran down the stairs, Schlatt following close behind.

                     “We just want to go on a mission!” Tubbo yelled.

                     “Yeah, we’ll save Tommy like- like-“

                     “Like how he did when those people were bleeding out and he stitched em up with needles!” Tubbo said with a laugh, Fundy giving a grimace.

                     “You little shit- you weren’t supposed to see that!” Schlatt said, scooping up the two, who laughed as they were grabbed.

                     “You can’t hide things from me, I’m Big Crime. I get away with anything. I’m sneaky.” Tubbo said.

                     “Oh yeah? I thought you were Big Law? You were just telling me that yesterday.” Schlatt said. Tubbo shook his head.

                     “Nope. Big Crime now. You thought you could hide the bloody stuff from me? Never.”

                     “I didn’t like the blood. It was gross.” Fundy murmured.

                     “That’s fine, Fundy, you don’t have to. That’s why I blocked you from seeing.” Wilbur said from the couch. Schlatt let him down and the little fox ran to his father, Wilbur happy to give his son a hug.

                     “Can we go save Tommy? Please?” Tubbo asked.

                     “We don’t even know where he is, bud. How would you save him?”

                     “I’d find him out of pure spite. He isn’t allowed to leave while I’m visiting. I know the law.”

                     “Yeah! We didn’t give him permission to leave. Not allowed.” Fundy said. Tubbo nodded.

                     “Not allowed.” Tubbo echoed. Schlatt sighed, now putting Tubbo down as well.

                     “Look kid, as much as we’d love to let you go find him, we can’t.”

                     “Yeah...we don’t know how far he is or anything. You two could get kidnapped yourselves.” Tubbo crossed his arms.

                     “Well you guys are taking too long! I’m sure I’d find him way faster.”

                     “I can see why Tommy likes you all, my gods.” Clem said with a laugh. “You’re very entertaining.”

                     “You’re being slow too! Tommy could be getting tortured and you’re just sitting here!” Tubbo said.

                     “Tommy’s fine.” Clem assured. “Honestly, I’m surprised they’ve kept him this long. He’s crafty. He’ll find a way to reach us eventually.”

                     “How are you so sure?” Tubbo narrowed his eyes at Clementine.

                     “Truth be told? I’m not. But Tommy has a way of subverting my expectations.” Clem said, looking at her feet. She wouldn’t tell them what the clock told her. Not yet. They looked so hopeful when she spoke and she didn’t want to crush them now.

                     “You said you had an idea of who was keeping him? Who do you think?” Wilbur asked softly. Clementine took a breath in, looking around at everyone before answering.

                     “I think it’s the God of Chaos, younger sibling to Exde, God of Life and older sibling to Drista, Goddess of Trickery. I think it’s Dream.” 

                     ---

                     Techno had taken to pacing around the room to calm himself, Phil sitting on the bed, unsure of what to say.

                     “Phil, he knows gods.” Techno said, still pacing. “Wilbur’s taken in a child made of hot gases and a Goddess for a mom!”

                     “Look mate, calm down. We aren’t gonna get anywhere by panicking.”

                     “Honestly Phil, how are you not panicking?” Phil slumped down a bit, staring at the floor in thought.

                     “Well...I’ve talked to the kid before. I’m honestly surprised I didn’t figure it out sooner. He knew things that only followers would and actually told me you were a god.”

                     “Heh?” Techno stopped pacing.

                     “Mhm. We went hunting together. Very strange time, but it seemed he only was looking out for Wilbur and Fundy. Made me open my eyes to a couple of things.”

                     “Did he now?”

                     “Techno, I don’t think the kid’s entirely bad. He’s just been protecting the people he’s found. Protecting those he’s loyal to. And he never seemed to fully like us, but he’s tolerated us for Wil and his kid.” Techno stared at him for a moment before humming in acknowledgement.

                     A knock at the door. “Phil? Techno?” Wilbur called.

                     “Come in.” Techno said blandly. The door opened and Wilbur and Clementine came in. Techno groaned.

                     “Why are you literally everywhere?” He asked, earning a glare.

                     “Because I need to be. I have a friend on the line. And as much as I hate to admit it, we’re gonna need your help. So are you done being assholes about Tommy?” Wilbur put a hand on her head.

                     “Okay, calm down Clem. But seriously, can we get to planning? I don’t want him gone any longer than he needs to be.” Phil gave a smile, standing up.

                     “I’m ready to go whenever.” Wilbur returned the smile, then looked at Techno, who simply stared back.

                     “Well?” Wilbur said.

                     “What? You want me to risk my life for a kid that some old gods are attached to? Yeah, no.”

                     “You’re immortal you dickhead, I swear to god if Clara doesn’t kill you, I will-“ Clem said, Wilbur simply picked her up. She started to try to wiggle out of his grasp.

                     “Calm, small gremlin.”

                     “Wilbur, if you don’t let me down, I will bite your hand.”

                     “Jokes on you, I have a high pain tolerance. Fundy’s teething was a nightmare.”

                     “Shit.” Clem grumbled, stopping her attempts.

                     “Gods, you and Tommy are so alike.”

                     “We grew up together, what did you expect?”

                     “Yeah yeah, go play with the other kids-“

                     “I’m not 5, you fucking-“

                     “Go find Tubbo and Fundy.” Clementine walked off, mumbling curses under her breath. Wilbur then redirected his attention to Techno.

                     “Techno, look. I know Tommy isn’t your responsibility, but I need your help. Just at least for this. That’s all I need. You don’t even have to help go get him. Just help us out the bare minimum. Please.”

                     Techno thought for a moment, staring at the two in front of him before huffing. “Fine. Let’s just get the kid back so I can be left alone.” Wilbur beamed.

                     “Alright! Let’s get to planning!”

Chapter Text

A routine had been established without anyone knowing it. It went: Ranboo woke up, then Tommy, they got food, Tommy annoys the guard until they either ignore him or take him to play manhunt, Tommy gets back, they get food again, Ranboo and Tommy talk, they go to sleep.

Something worrying that Ranboo had noticed, however, is that whenever Dream and Tommy play manhunt, Tommy would come back increasingly quiet. At first he came back complaining or brightly explaining how he pulled something on Dream, but over the course of time, he just came back silent, either letting Ranboo deal with whatever injury he’d gotten that day or sitting on his cot and occasionally mumbling something to the stars, (which were their only way of telling time in this hellhole if Ranboo was being honest). 

He’d go back to his normal, loud self in the morning, but Ranboo couldn’t help but wonder what happened during the manhunt. What Dream said or did to make him like that. He’d tried asking Tommy about it once, but Tommy only gave him a contemplating look before starting to ramble about what had happened in the manhunt, only saying Dream ‘talked shit’, and that was that. He didn’t ask about it again. 

One day, Tommy was thrown into the cell, Tommy yelling out a few curses at the guard, who merely scoffed and walked away. Ranboo shuffled over to the star boy. 

“Tommy, are you okay?” He asked lightly, the other turned his head towards him with a scowl, before a grin found its way across his face and he lifted up an object. Ranboo’s eyes widened.

“I-Is that-” Tommy shushed him.

“I nabbed it from one of the guards. Dream assumed I was trying to grab his weapon, so he got a little rough, hence being thrown in here- nothing I can’t handle. I’ve been trying to get one for weeks now. Why I was so quiet.” He said with a slightly more sheepish grin. In his hand was a small communicator, barely functioning, but it would do for sending something.

“What are you going to do with it?” Ranboo asked quietly as Tommy started to flip through it.

“What do you think? Can’t call mum, so I’m calling my dad.” He said with a smirk. Finally finding what he wanted, he silently cheered.

“Okay. Coordinates. We need those.” 

“Uhhh…” Ranboo tried to answer, but Tommy put up a hand to stop him.

“No need to feel stupid Boo, it’s night time. Don’t even worry about it.” Ranboo snorted a little at Tommy’s confidence. Not that he was making fun of him, no he actually looked up to the boy quite a lot. Tommy went silent for a moment, staring up at the ceiling before he quickly looked down, typing coordinates.

“Woah- They actually tell you that kind of stuff?”

“Have to convince them a little, but yes, they can be helpful sometimes.” Tommy said finishing his message. He put the communicator down.

“Alright. Now all we have to do is wait.” Ranboo smiled.

“And we’ll be saved?” Tommy nodded.

“We’ll be saved.” A noise from the communicator. A worried father asking his son where he was, if he was okay. Normally, it would be okay, but the tall ceilings made for any noise to be louder than it should. So, rightfully, the panic set in as they heard footsteps after a couple loud pangs that just didn’t seem to stop .

Tommy was mumbling strings of curses and Ranboo? He just curled into himself. It was his way of feeling safe. Tommy seemed to see this and tried to console him a bit.

“Hey- Hey it’s gonna be okay- I just need to- Fuck, Wilbur, shut up for a second!” He whisper-shouted, fumbling with the communicator. A loud bang was heard as the door to the cells swung open, causing Tommy to drop the small device. Tommy looked up at an angry Dream, who looked just about to kill with that smile, and in a moment of quick thinking, Tommy stomped down onto the device, crushing it and it’s contents with each stomp.

Dream opened their cell door and picked Tommy up by the collar, making them see eye to eye.

“ What the FUCK did you send?” Dream hissed, causing a forced laugh from Tommy.

“Find out for yourself, bitch- go on and pick up the pieces you green bastard!” Dream went silent. Then looked over at Ranboo, who simply looked down. He didn’t wanna be here. He didn’t want to be in this cell feeling this amount of fear for his life- this isn’t normal, right? Of course it isn’t, but gods, when was anything normal anymore-

“Don’t fuckin look at him, I was the one who did it, dickhead!” Ranboo raised his head. Tommy was really taking the blow for him? If Ranboo wasn’t in shock, he’d notice how Tommy was digging himself an even deeper hole.

Dream looked back at Tommy, his smile now being softer. 

“Alright Tommy. I’ll play your games.” He set Tommy down, now holding onto his wrist with a surprising amount of grip. “I actually just finished the thing I’ve been working on. So let’s go.” Tommy gulped. He seemed to notice Ranboo’s gaze, looked over to him and gave him a small, genuine smile and a nod. The quiet promise of ‘ I’ll be okay. I’ll be back.’

And then he was gone with Dream.

He didn’t come back after the guards switched shifts, like he normally did.

---

At the cabin, the family had been worn out. They were running out of places and at this point- Tommy could be anywhere. They had basically searched the entire goddamned forest and Wilbur was tired. Techno was tired, Schlatt was tired- everyone was tired. And Clementine was just there drinking an apple juice. Her face never changed, just slight twitches of the eyes or how she held her juice. 

Techno had demanded she tell him why she kept drinking damned apple juice while they were searching for her friend . She only shot back that Tommy was his nephew and his other nephew was on the verge of tears whenever he came down every morning to find his brother hadn’t been found. Tubbo had winced, Schlatt patted the boy’s arm in an attempt at comfort. Wilbur could only sigh as she continued.

“And besides. It’s my first time here. Let me enjoy myself.”

Then there was a ping on Wilbur’s communicator. And Clem grinned. 

Wilbur was hesitant, but reached over to the communicator and saw from an unknown contact the one thing they needed. Coordinates. Wilbur sat up immediately, his eyes widening at the text and the message underneath it.

‘Dad come pick us up, the green boy’s being a bitch.’ Wilbur snorted out a disbelieving laugh, looking up at Clementine, who kept her smile.
“...It’s Tommy.” 

“Told you. He’s crafty.” Another sip of the juice.

“Yeah. He sure is.” He said, typing out a couple messages to Tommy, wanting to make sure he was okay. After that, he turned back to the others. 

“Well? You gonna give us those coordinates or are we supposed to guess?” Techno said, a smile evident in his voice.

“Oh- Yeah- Yeah! Sorry, I just...holy shit-” Wil handed over the communicator and the two mapping experts started to see where exactly they’d have to go. Fundy peeked into the room.

“Dad? What’s going on?” He asked quietly. Wilbur smiled brightly at his little boy.

“We found Tommy, buddy.” And gods was it all worth it to see the way Fundy lit up and ran over to Wilbur, hugging him as his father picked him up.

“Where is he?! Is he ok? Wait- of course he’s okay, he’s Tommy!” Fundy said with a giggle. Wilbur could only feel a warmth in his heart. He’d have his boys soon. They’d all be okay.

“Huh. What’dya think he meant with ‘us’?” Schlatt said, looking at the message. Wilbur looked over his shoulder.

“Hm...Dunno. I guess we’re gonna find out when we go get him, huh?” Schlatt hummed, nodding. Tubbo, at this point, was with Clem, excitedly hounding Technoblade after he’d said weapons were needed to Phil.

“Dad? When are we getting Tommy back? I miss him.” Fundy said in a hushed whisper. 

“We’ll get him back as soon as possible. We just need some tools to help him out, okay?” Fundy slowly nods, understanding.

Clem turned towards them.

“Trust me. If you have me. We’ll be fine. I have some things to say to Dream myself, and there’s no way I’m letting you all have the fun.” She said with a mischievous grin.

Fundy decided girls were scary that day.

Chapter Text

Tommy was led through multiple rooms, each one bigger than the last. He was kept close to Dream’s side until they reached the final room, Tommy getting pushed into a chair. His metal cuffs were brought to each arm of the chair, melting into the similar metal. Tommy was now stuck. Great. And it looked like an electric chair. Even better.

“What the fuck is this?” Dream laughed.

“It’s my latest project! You like it?”

“What is it?” Tommy asked once again.

“Oh you’ll see.” Dream went closer. “Tommy, what did you send and who did you send it to?”

“A message. To a friend.” 

“Tommy.”

“What?! I told you!” Dream sighed.

“Alright. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.” As he said this, he flicked a small switch, and suddenly a sharp pain went throughout his entire body, and he couldn’t hear his own thoughts over the stars and his own pained scream that echoed through the room mixed with Dream’s manic laughter as the god finally flicked the switch again, stopping the pain that seemed to drain him of all energy. He slumped forward, holy fuck . A small light flickered where his heart was. 

“What the fuck?!” He screamed, yet it didn’t hold the same angry energy. He felt tired. Dream only continued laughing, eventually composing himself.

“Did you like my project?” He asked softly.

“No! Of course I fucking- What the hell is this thing?!” Tommy struggled in his cuffs.

“Well, it’s kinda like the electric chair- but I put a bit of a twist on it...you see, I was thinking. What’s the one thing that can hurt a star like you?”

“Literally anything?”

“Yes, but I wanted to be more creative Tommy. So, I got in contact with a couple... friends ...and I had them get me a little something. You may be feeling drained right now, right?” Tommy glared at him.

“Well, you can thank the small black hole I’ve made this connected to!” 

“....what.”

“Mhm! I got some friends to get me a black hole from the space goddess herself! How does it feel Tommy? How does it feel that you and your mother’s own creations are being used to slowly kill you?” Dream came closer as he spoke, Tommy slunk back. He was trembling. Shit- no. He couldn’t show this bitch that he was winning here. He glared down at the ground.

“But because we’re friends, I’ll give you a break here. Just tell me what was said. And I’ll let you go. Simple as that, Tommy.” Tommy mulled over the options in his head. Surely the god wouldn’t kill him. He was valuable to him. And his mother wouldn’t stand for it either….but his mother wasn’t here. And from the faint light coming from his chest- death was honestly a big possibility that Tommy didn’t want to think about. Right now. He was fine.

“Piss off.” Tommy mumbled. Dream only hummed, flicking the switch, causing another bout of pain. Tommy could feel the stars that made up his body stretch and die and get wholly consumed by whatever controlled black hole that was in this thing. It was kinda like having your guts rearranged. Dream flicked off the switch.

Tommy couldn’t keep his human looking form for long with how much energy was being drained of him- ( why was he doing this? For fucking entertainment? Fuckin green man.) - and he needed to keep his energy to keep even a form at all. So he let himself have a soft glow, his body returning to it’s scarred and original state. 

“There’s the real Tommy Innit! Now are you willing to comply, now that you’re realizing you can’t keep this up?” Tommy glared at him for a minute. Then spat out glowing blood towards Dream’s feet. That was concerning, but he wasn’t a worrywart like Ranboo, so he didn’t focus on it.

“Suck it, green boy.” He said with a smirk, trying to hide the way he was scared out of his mind right now. Dream just sighed.

“I hate to do this to you, Tom, but you gotta learn somehow. And what kinda friend would I be if I didn’t help you out?” 

“Fuck off.” Tommy grumbled. 

Another scream. More light.

---

George had had enough. He understood some of Dream’s misdeeds, he had to use his powers somehow- and what’s a couple tricks here and there? Didn’t hurt anyone and hell, even Dream’s siblings would get in on it too! But this? This was way too far.

First things first, he would talk to Tommy and that poor hybrid Ranboo and hopefully make amends with his words the best he could. Then, he’d demand Dream to release them. They were- or at least Ranboo was- kids, and Tommy had gotten cut off from not only his mother, but apparently he had a mortal family that was probably terribly worried about him. 

He soon entered the room that the cells were in, giving the guard a harsh glare as he entered to see….only Ranboo. He went up to the boy, who was shaking in a corner.

“Hey...are you okay?” He tried and the boy shot up. “Woah- breathe- it’s all okay- I’m- I’m here to help.” That seemed to calm his nerves a bit, Ranboo settling down slightly. That was good.

“Um...wait- isn’t Tommy supposed to-” A loud scream of pain echoed through the place, and Ranboo jumped, looking impossibly small despite his tall stature. George looked towards the noise, rightfully horrified.

“Yeahhh...that’s been happening for a while…” Ranboo said in a hushed tone. 

“Gods, please don’t tell me that’s…” He looked back towards Ranboo, who merely shrugged.

“I’m hoping just as much as you are that I’m wrong…” George winced.

“Okay...I’ll be right back okay- Just- stay put-” Ranboo let out a wet laugh.

“Don’t think I could leave if I wanted to.”

“Well that’s about to change. I’ll be right back.” And with that, George stormed off. He wasn’t ready for what he was welcomed with.

In the middle of the room was a bright figure that George figured out to be Tommy, stuck in some metal chair.  Dream was off to the side looking way too damn happy.

“Dream. What the hell is this?” George asked, honestly scared to make his voice go any louder.

“Ah. George. Just a bit of interrogation fun. Nothing much.” George almost laughed. Almost. 

“Fun? Fun?! It’s like those people in the electric chairs! This is torture!” Dream merely hummed, tilting his head. George walked up to Tommy, who’s eyes, despite being no more than glowing light at this point, seemed distant. Somewhere else. 

“Tommy?” The boy looked up at him, face going into a scowl as he recognized the god.

“What. You wanna ask me dumb questions too? I’m not gonna answer. Go ahead. Try it, bitch.” 

“What- Tommy, no, I’m not-”

“George. I suggest you step back.” George whipped his head around to glare at the other god in the room. He stood up, walking over to Dream.

“Dream. Let him go this instant.”

“George, we’ve been over this. I’m not letting him go.” George wants to yell, to knock some sense into his friend, but then an idea pops up. George sighs, calming himself down and puts on a sad face.

“Dream, please. You’re killing him. At least put him back into his cell.” Dream seems to think for a moment, staring at George before letting out a hum and walking towards Tommy. George has never felt such relief. Dream pulled the boy up, the cuffs reforming and Tommy, despite looking to try his best, all but fell into Dream, who held him up by his wrist with a noise of disgust. 

Now, George was a god. A God of Illusions to be exact. He could make things seem like they were what they weren’t. So, simply put, snatching the keys from Dream was an absolute breeze. He might be a minor god, but he was good enough of one to trick another. 

As Dream shoved Tommy into the cell, Ranboo immediately ran up to him.

“Tommy?! Oh my gods- what-” 

“Be thankful George was here. I won’t be so nice next time Tommy. That chair won’t be the only thing I have.” Dream bit out, turning and leaving. George turned towards the two. Tommy shakily stood up, Ranboo anxiously helping him. 

“Why are you still here?” The boy spit out, causing George to flinch.

“Oh- uh. I just wanted to say.” He put his hand on Tommy’s. “I’m sorry.” He whispered. Then he walked out. He couldn’t help but smile at the grin that came on the boy’s face as he noticed the keys. Surely, this would make a good enough apology for the star boy. He felt horrible anyways.

He could only hope Clara was as kind and understanding.

Chapter Text

Tommy gripped the keys, managing to unlock the cuffs. They fell to the ground with a clack against the stone, but Tommy didn’t care. He felt his powers return, the stars swarming to replace the stars he’d lost in his body. Ranboo watched with disbelief. 

“You- You got keys?” Tommy smirked and looked over at him.

“Thank goodness for Gogy.” He said, jangling the keys where Ranboo could see. Tommy laughed at Ranboo’s dumbfounded look and went to unlock the door.

“Alright! Let’s get the fuck out of this prison!” Tommy said, opening the door. He went to the side, motioning for Ranboo to go first.

Suddenly, the weight of everything going on suddenly came crashing down on Ranboo. He couldn’t go. Dream would find him- he always did. Ever since that day in the village- ever since that voice entered his mind- 

“T-Tommy I can’t.” He said, backing away. Tommy looked back, confused.

“What do you mean- we just have to go- we can figure out a way out-” Ranboo only shook his head.

“Tommy- we don’t know the way- I’ve never been outside of here! You’ve never been where Dream hasn’t taken you- We don’t know where anything is!” He gripped his arms to try to keep his panic down.

“Dream- He’ll find us- Tommy, you almost just died back there from what I heard!” Tommy’s face shifted to one of concern.

“Ranboo, I-” 

“No, Tommy! I respect you- and I thank you so much for- everything - but- we can’t leave...we’ll just get….killed.” He let out a shaky breath as the words he said sunk in. They’d be killed . Not some small punishment or a manhunt or something- Death. He sank to the floor, trying to get a grip as tears stung and burned. He would die. Tommy would die. Even if they did escape, Dream would hunt them down till he found them. The god was a maniac. And they couldn’t even kill him. Gods don’t die- they aren’t expendable like the rest of them. 

Ranboo had been thinking optimistically before, but now...he couldn’t move. He could barely breathe, how was Tommy not panicking?! The star boy almost died chained to a chair and yet here he was, trying to say they could escape?! He pulled on his hair slightly, trying to stop the tears.

Suddenly, he heard a small chirp. A chirp only a certain species could pull off. Ranboo looked up to find Tommy feet away from him, down at his level, looking like an enderman hybrid. Tommy lightly pulled Ranboo’s hands away from his hair, letting out another set of chirps.

“Tommy…?” Tommy smiled softly.

“It’s gonna be okay...just breathe with me…” The familiar language made Ranboo let out a shaky breath. He only nodded and tried to calm himself down, eventually matching Tommy’s breathing. He looked back up. 

“...thank you...I’m sorry.” Tommy shook his head.

“Don’t be. Now. Are you ready to go?” He asked, keeping his voice quiet.

“...Tommy, we can’t escape. Dream will-”

“ Dream. Won’t do shit. We just need to get out. And then we’ll be okay. That’s a promise.” Ranboo stared him dead in the eyes, something he would usually never do, but he needed this reassurance.

“You swear it?”

“I’ll swear on my own mother.” Tommy said, earning a small laugh. Ranboo then nodded, standing up. Tommy followed.

“Okay. Let’s go.” Tommy smiled.

“Hold my hand. It’s night time.” Ranboo held on tightly as Tommy led them out of the room. 

“What the fuck are you two doing out of your cells?” A guard asked, causing them to book it running. More yells followed as they ran through the labyrinth of a place.

Tommy gripped his hand, leading him through the corridors, never letting up his pace, every now and then looking back at Ranboo to make sure he was okay, occasionally letting out small chirps of reassurance. 

“Everything will be okay.” “Just keep holding onto my hand.” “Keep breathing, we’ll make it out.”

Ranboo could hear his heart beating in his ears, trying to keep himself grounded by focusing on their footsteps, not the shouts and way Tommy occasionally cursed at a wrong turn. 

“We’re almost there Ranboo, hold on- just- hold on.” Ranboo only nodded.

Then they stopped.

There, in front of them, stood Dream and his followers. Ranboo heard Tommy mumble ‘shit’ under his breath. Dream’s head tilted, the smile never faltering. 

“You knew you couldn’t escape Tommy. And with my little tracker too. You made this way too easy.” Ranboo felt his heart drop. He was the reason they got found? Dream could track him ? Is- Is that how-

Ranboo didn’t get time to finish his train of thought, because Tommy mumbled to him in Ender: “ When I count to three, I want you to run to the right. The exit’s over there.”

“Wha- Tommy-“

“1.” Dream’s smile grew wider, if that was even possible.

“Wait, what about you-“

“2.”

“Tommy, whatever you’re trying here, it won’t work.” Dream said.

“Tommy-“

“3!” Tommy shouted, and in his hand, he saw a small orb of light, a star, get thrown, a huge explosion emerging from it. Ranboo stumbled backwards from Tommy letting go.

“Ranboo, fucking go!” Tommy yelled, and Ranboo took no time to book it towards the exit. Dream yelled for some followers to go after him, however they were stopped by Tommy, stars exploding, not big enough to collapse everything, but to cause damage and act as a smoke bomb. Ranboo burst through the doors and- oh my gods, was that the moon?  It was beautiful. Like something out of a dream, the moon big and full in the sky, a moment of peace, relief he hadn’t felt in years , suddenly drained from him as he still heard screaming, fighting, swords clanging against each other. 

“Tommy!” Ranboo yelled, seeing Tommy still fighting the God. Tommy turned for a moment.

“Go Ranboo, run! I’ll- I’ll be there! I promise!” He yelled, and that was all Ranboo needed to hear. Tommy kept his promises. That had gotten them this far. So, he ran and ran and then:

A huge explosion. A bright light. Ranboo snapped around to look at the sight. The entire place was rubble. And in the middle?

A boy with a glimmering light where his heart should be.

And a God with a sword through the boy’s stomach.

--- 

Tommy couldn’t move. Tommy couldn’t breathe. All he could hear was Dream’s laughter as he stared down at the sword in his chest. Somewhere, he heard his name- a girl’s voice- Clementine? Every muscle in his body screamed to run as the God of Chaos hugged him close and said to him.

‘See Tommy? I told you. You can’t escape me. :)’

That...That didn’t feel like a person- that was a voice. He felt something in his ear- like a fucking worm it curled it’s way into his ear far beyond where he could reach.

“What- what the fuck did you do…?” He managed to blurt out, causing the god to laugh again. 

“What do you mean Tommy? I’m just helping a friend stay close. Now I’ve gotta go okay? I’ll see you later Tommy. You’ve been real fun.” Dream said. As Tommy was about to ask what he meant, the god pulled out the sword, a yelp of pain erupting from the star boy as Dream smiled down at him and then...disappeared. 

“TOMMY!” A voice yelled and then all the pain he’d been ignoring came back to hit him like a brick. He doubled over in pain, a pair of arms grabbing him before he could fall.

“Ranboo…?” He asked, not looking up.

“Wow, I leave you alone for a couple thousand years and you forget me? Honestly, I’m hurt-” That wasn’t Ranboo. He jerked his head up, grinning wide as he saw Clementine. 

“Clem?” She scoffed in amusement.

“Who else, dumbass? Technoblade over there?” She motioned towards the others who were watching with caution. He caught sight of Wilbur, who was holding Fundy close.

“...Dad?” He asked softly. The man all but runs up to Tommy, Clem letting go so the two could hug. Wilbur holds him close, running a hand through the boy’s hair.

“Holy shit you’re okay...oh my gods when that explosion came, I...oh thank the gods…” Wilbur mumbled as tears flowed down his face. After a minute, he pulled Tommy away, looking at the boy.

“Oh- that’s a lot of blood- oh no-” Tommy laughed tiredly.

“Yeah. I’m bleeding out.”

“Not on my watch you don’t.” Clem said from behind. She put a hand over the injury, a small clock appeared, causing the injury to freeze.

“Ah- what would I do without you Clem?” Tommy says.

“Bleed out and die, that’s what.” Tommy only nodded along. 

“Truely, Clementine the moth. The poggest woman besides the queen.” 

“I can’t tell if you’re being genuine or sarcastic and it’s irritating me.” 

“Good.” 

“Okay okay- I don’t know how long Clementine’s magic works and I don’t think I wanna find out, so can we all go back home?” Wilbur asked. Tommy nodded. They all turned towards the direction of the house, starting to walk. Tommy heard small footsteps behind him. He looked back, seeing Ranboo, not seeming too sure of what to do, but slowly following the rest. Tommy stops momentarily.

“C’mon boob boy, I know you’re faster than that. I get grass is cool and all but we got plenty of that at home.” He said with a smirk. Ranboo looked up at him for a moment before smiling, making his way beside Tommy. 

Tommy thought about how much better this would be with his mother here. He simply shrugged it off. She’d be here eventually. He knew it.

:)

Chapter Text

Clara was worried, to say the least. Her stars had been silent, and she couldn’t see or hear Tommy at all. So when he finally contacted, of course she answered.

“Mum?” A small voice came, which she recognized instantly.

“Tommy! Oh dear- where have you been? Why haven’t you said anything? I was so worried, sunshine!” She scrambled to open up a view of her boy, who was sitting on the roof as he had been before.

“Sorry- didn’t mean to make you worried. I was...busy…” He says, fiddling with his necklace.

“Busy? Oh hon, please don’t tell me you got into another war! You said things were calm there…” She saw her boy process what was said before laughing.

“No, no wars, I just got stabbed.” He seemed to feel somewhere on his stomach before wincing.

“Stabbed? By who?” The goddess would usually never allow such acts towards her son, however Tommy would tell her to be merciful, for the person who did it had a good cause. His eyes darkened.

“The God of Chaos.” He mumbled. She wasn’t quite sure she heard it, at first. A God attacking her child? Protected by multiple gods which he followed? It was absurd, unheard of. He continued.

“He kidnapped me. He broke the necklace too. I was stuck there until I found a communicator and told Wilbur and them the coordinates. He found out and...well, he put me in a chair and almost killed me, mum!” He exclaimed, fear lining his words. The goddess found herself filled with rage. She would’ve expected this from a lowly minor god who wanted to be more- but Exde’s little brother? A role model to the Goddess of Trickery? Unacceptable. 

“There were some other gods there too. George and...Sapnap? Yeah. They tried to tell him to let me go, but he didn’t listen. So George got me the keys. I didn’t see Sapnap after the first time. I don’t think he wanted to be around what Dream was doing.” She hummed in acknowledgement. She would have to talk to the two. Or at least get Bad to talk to his son. They should’ve at least reported what was happening to the eldest gods and goddesses.

“We got out, as you can see. Big man Tommy Innit got himself away from the green bastard. Though, now Fundy and Wil are being clingy bitches and putting me on house arrest basically.” She snickered at her son’s antics, before catching onto something.

“We?” She asked softly. Tommy froze for a minute before his eyes lit up.

“Ah yeah. Ranboo, or as I expertly nicknamed him: Ranboob. He was the one who kidnapped me. Though, he didn’t want to. Dream did something to him. I’ll be honest with you, he’s a good guy. A little strange and shit, but eh. I’m made out of stars, who isn’t strange?” He said with a laugh. Clara could only smile.

“Alright little one. You best go to sleep before Wilbur and Fundy catches you. I have some gods to talk to, okay?” Tommy smiled up at her.

“Alright mum. See you tomorrow.” He climbed back into the house, Clara closed the window to see him. She took a deep breath, putting on a serious face.

Exde was going to hear an earful for this one.

---

“No Tubbo, you can’t use my stars to make bombs!” 

“But Tommy- think of the mass destruction-” 

“I wouldn’t even be allowed to see it!”

“Why not?” Tubbo whined. Tommy pointed to Wilbur and Fundy, who were both watching the interaction with caution.

“Oh.” 

“Yeah. And besides- you can’t hold it like I can.”

“I can make something that can! C’mon Tommy please?” Tommy stared at him for a moment.

“No.” Tommy said, Tubbo’s face fell.

“You know what- no- I won’t take this.” Tubbo makes his way behind Ranboo, who was on the couch writing stuff down in the book Tommy had made him. “Ranboo’s my friend now. He’s been nice to me, in fact- we’re married now.”

“Wha- huh?” Ranboo whips around from his spot to stare at the two.

“Platonic, Boo, don’t make it weird.” Tubbo said, crossing his arms. Tommy turned and gave Ranboo a look.

“Ranboob! I let you into my house and you steal my best friend? What is this?!” Tubbo looks over at Tommy.

“I’m your best friend?” He asks, looking touched. Clementine looked offended.

“Betrayal!” She shouts. 

“Shut up! All of you!” Tommy redirects his attention back to Tubbo and Ranboo. “This is a betrayal on both of your parts and I’m going to get rage married because of you.” Tubbo scoffed.

“Like you’d get anyone to marry you.” 

“I’ll have you know, Tubso, that I’ve gotten married on multiple occasions, sometimes even to more than one woman.” Wilbur chokes on his drink.

“You’ve been married?!” He turns towards his son. Tommy raises an eyebrow.

“Yeah? I mean, I’ve been alive for millions of years, it’s only natural.” He pauses, letting out a ‘tsk’ at their surprise. “Clem, I thought you showed them everything?” The goddess shrugged.

“Only the important parts.”

“Me getting married wasn’t important?”

“Only to you.” She said, earning a glare from her friend. Ranboo clears his throat.

“So have you like- had kids or something?” He asked, Wilbur’s face turned terrified. Tommy wheezes out a laugh.

“Gods no! I might be millions of years old, but I’m still mentally 13- No way in hell I would ever- I used starry look-alikes to deal with that stuff.” He says, grimacing at the memories of wives asking for children while he was different, older people. The majority of the room lets out a sigh of relief. 

“Thank the gods. I think I might’ve had a heart attack if you said yes.” Wilbur mumbled.

“Yeah yeah-” Tommy grumbles making his way towards the door. Tubbo glances over.

“Where are you going?” 

“To get rage married. I told you.” Tommy says, smirking.

“Wait, you were serious?” Ranboo asked from his spot. Tommy laughs.

“No, of course not. Going to the village. Won’t deny the offer if someone asks me though-” He gets stopped by a tug on his sleeve. He looks over to see Fundy holding onto his sleeve. The kid had grown some since he first came here- Wilbur had said something about age magic, but Tommy never really paid attention. 

“Don’t go.” Fundy orders, though his voice wavers a bit. Tommy can see the uncertain fear from the fox hybrid and he sighs, closing the door.

“Fiiiine, guess the marriage can wait. You’re lucky you’re my brother.” He mumbles, going and flopping onto the couch next to Ranboo, who jumped at the sudden added weight. Fundy gives him a smile, and he can’t help but smile back. He notices everyone staring.

“What, dickheads? Never seen a guy talk to his brother?” He says, earning a laugh from Tubbo.

“SoftInnit confirmed?” Clem says. Tubbo nods. 

“Tommy Innit is soft for family- this is truly the end of the world.” Tommy grabs a pillow, throwing it at Tubbo, who was leaning on the couch. The goat hybrid shrieks, backing away with a laugh, tripping over and falling to the floor. “I’m okay!” He says, putting a thumbs up.

“Yes. Fight. I’m going to get more juice.” Clem says, getting up from the bottom step. Tommy lets out a small laugh that makes her stop.

“Oh no. Don’t think you’re not next, bitch.” He says, forming a pillow and standing up. They stare at each other for a minute before Tommy jumps over the couch and Clementine runs, letting out a scream of terror. Tubbo laughs from his spot on the floor.

“You all are so hyper…” Ranboo says quietly, watching the two immortals fight with pillows. Tubbo grins.

“Oh c’mon boss man, you love us.” Ranboo only looks over the room, Wilbur trying to calm the two down as Fundy joins in. Phil and Schlatt soon join and try to pull the kids away from each other while Techno watches with amusement. He smiles.

“Yeah. Maybe I do.” He says looking down at the book, the page only having one thing written.

‘⌰⍜⎐⟒ ⏃⋏⎅ ☊⊑⟒⍀⟟⌇⊑ ⏁⊑⟒ ⏁⊑⟟⋏☌⌇ ⏁⊑⟒ ⌇⏁⏃⍀⌇ ⊑⏃⎐⟒ ☌⟟⎐⟒⋏ ⊬⍜⎍. ⊬⍜⎍ ⏃⍀⟒⋏'⏁ ⏃⌰⍜⋏⟒ ⏃⋏⊬⋔⍜⍀⟒. ⎅⍀⟒⏃⋔ ⍙⏃⌇ ⋏⟒⎐⟒⍀ ⍀⟟☌⊑⏁. ⊬⍜⎍ ☊⏃⋏ ⊑⏃⎐⟒ ⏃ ⊑⍜⋔⟒ ⏃☌⏃⟟⋏.’

Chapter Text

George was nervous. He had been called down to the God of Life’s domain, to talk about what he assumed was his involvement in Tommy’s kidnapping. He was right in his assumption as he entered the room to see the taller Goddess of Space and even taller God of Life, with a girl that he recognized as the Goddess of Trickery on his shoulder, a bored expression on her face. He coughed, making the higher-up deities look over to him. The God of Life clapped his hands together.

“Ah! George. Just the god we were waiting for.” George let out a small laugh, walking up to the gods. He was a minor god, so he couldn’t exactly grow to impossible heights to meet the other gods’ eyes. Thankfully, Exde seemed to notice how he craned his neck to look up at them, so he extended a hand for George to stand on, which he happily stepped up onto.

“Thank you.” George said as the eldest god brought him up. Exde let out a hum, looking over to Clara, who nodded.

“George. Do you understand why you’re here?” He gulped at her tone, all cold, nothing like he’d heard about from the other minor gods.

“Um...I’m going to guess it has something to do with Tommy.” Clara nodded once again.

“You’re not in trouble...not exactly at least.” Exde spoke up, taking notice of how George nervously rubbed his hands together. “You helped the boy escape to his earthly family. For that, we will forgive your affiliations with Dream and such.” That calmed George’s nerves a bit.

“Though…” Clara interrupted. “You did not inform any other gods what was transpiring in that place. I didn’t know Tommy was even gone until he told me earlier. You, a minor god gifted this gift instead of made for it, should know the importance of creations by the Eldest Gods.” 

George stiffened, trying to find the right words. “I- yes, of course I know that… I just...I had hoped it wouldn’t get to be that serious- Dream has done stupid things before, yes, but it was all just harmless fun- I thought he’d let him go, thought maybe it was a planned prank or something, but…” He trailed off. Clara’s rage seemed to spark, her dark violet hair sparking with blonde, streaks of white making themselves apparent as she spoke up.

“But my son, who wanted nothing more than a peaceful life with his mortal family, was chained to a chair and tortured, and then stabbed in the stomach.” George grimly nodded, looking down. 

“Let me make it clear. I never- ever- wanted that to happen, I made him stop as soon as I saw the situation. I got the keys and then gave them to Tommy right after.” Exde tilted his head, Drista now looked incredibly uncomfortable. George thought he would too- if his brother was stupid enough to do something like that. 

“Hm. He does seem to have no mal intent, Clara.” The god said. “He seems to regret being involved in such a situation. I say we let him go off. He knows well enough what to do next time.” Exde booped the top of his head, George masking his semi-annoyance. Clara merely sighs.

“Yes, but we must do something! Tommy has done nothing but love. Sure, he has been in wars, he has made mistakes, but we be damned, he is one of the most precious beings on this plane of existence!” Clara said, starry tears beginning to form in her sky blue eyes that flickered with darker shades. Exde continued to stare at George, or what he would assume to be staring. The god didn’t exactly have eyes like his younger siblings.

“I recognize that Clara, but getting angry at the only deity who helped him that we are allowed to talk to would just be useless. You and your son have the same temper, I swear. One more endearing than the other…” He mumbled the last bit under his breath, earning a laugh from Drista and a scoff from Clara, who turned and grumbled to the small stars that were gathered around her. George watched as the goddess’s face turned to one of acceptance, turning back to the others. She cleared her throat, clearly embarrassed about her outburst now that she calmed down.

“....I’m sorry, I just...my sunshine didn’t deserve that…” She whispered, staring down at her hands, which were now clasped together.

“It is okay. I know how important the little star is to you.” Exde said, never looking towards her. He looked to the small figure on his shoulder.

“Drista? Would you like to escort our God of Illusions out of the domain?” He suggested, giving the uncomfortable goddess an out from the emotional mother and her older brother, who seemed so okay with the fact that their sibling was a traitor. She curtly nodded, jumping down beside George. 

“Thank you for coming to meet with us, George. I understand this is a very stressful situation. Though, I do ask you to tell us if you find anything regarding Dream.” George opened his mouth to ask what would become of his friend, but then decided against it, only giving a nod. Exde brought the two down, Drista leading George out with a small ‘come on’. As they walked out silence enveloped them.

“...so, how are you doing?” George asked timidly. Drista seemed to glare up at him before her mask became an overexaggerated smile.

“Oh, I’m doing just great! My brother who I looked up to for years just turns out to be a huge prick, and my other brother is acting like this is totally normal! I’m. Doing. Amazing.” Her mask turned to an annoyed frown as she looked back at him. He winced.

“Alright- that’s fair. I just- wanted to make sure I guess. You are his sister after all.” He said the last part softly. Her mask shifted to a less annoyed expression.

“You should be more worried about yourself and anyone else involved. Clara’s forgiving, but she definitely won’t be forgetting.” She said, before turning and walking the other way. “I’m going. Bye. Don’t get in more trouble. That’s my thing.” She said, the smile returning. George smiled too, waving her off.

“Right. I’ll keep that in mind.” As she went out of view, he sighed. Being a god is really more stressful than he thought.

---

Ranboo came down to see the trio of a family at the table, a slightly taller Fundy and Tommy nervously fidgeting while Wilbur looked absolutely drained of life. Ranboo cautiously went up to the other two.

“Uh...what’s going on?” Tommy turned to him.

“Well- Fundy’s like physically 12 now and I asked Wilbur if that meant he’s gonna reach the end of his lifespan before Wilbur’s like 40 and I think it broke the poor man.” 

“You broke dad. Good job Tommy.” Fundy said from his spot. 

“It’s not my fault! I just asked a question!”

“I- w-wait Fundy’s 12? I thought he was 10?!” Ranboo sputtered.

“Apparently he’s supposed to be like 4 or something, age magic I guess…” Tommy mumbled and Fundy simply shrugged.

“Why are you not concerned about this?!” Ranboo asked.

“It’s DNA and shit big man, do you really think I care about it?” Fundy nodded along with his brother.

“Thinking about it now, that’s really weird to think about...it’s only been like 6 months since you’ve been here, and I was 10 then, so…”

“Please- Please don’t continue that thought, Fundy.” Wilbur mumbled, rubbing his temple.

“Yeahhhh okay-” Fundy looked over to Tommy who was deep in thought. “Whatcha thinking about Tommy?” 

“Well... what if you guys were immortal?” Tommy asked, and Ranboo, after a moment, froze.

“You can’t be thinking about what I think you are.” 

“But think about it Ran, all we’d need to do is-”

“Tommy, no. You know what happens to those types of people. Voices and stuff? And you’d need to get a god to do it for you and I don’t-”

“Clementine.” Tommy said.

“No can do, buddy, they’d need to do stuff for me, and I don’t think they’d wanna go jumping across timelines constantly.” Clementine said, making them jump.

“How- how did you- You weren’t here before...” Ranboo said. Clem just looked up at Ranboo.

“I’ve been practicing, okay? Just because I’m here doesn’t mean I don’t have things to do. I have to get back and forth from my domain somehow.” Tommy, completely ignoring this, seemed to deflate, giving her a face.

“But Clementine- who else will do it?”

“I dunno, your mom? Exde? Literally any eldest god that you have wrapped around your finger?” 

“Everyone else wouldn’t recognize them as a close follower! And the only other thing I could try to do would be make them a god, and I’ll admit Clem, my puppy eyes are good, but not that good.” 

“That really sucks.” Clementine said. “Guess they’ll just be mortals, you know, like they’re supposed to be.” 

“They’re the first family to figure out I’m not human and still be around- I wanna keep em around-” Clementine sat up, a serious look on her face.

“And then what? Tommy, immortality may be a game to you and me and stuff, but some people are haunted by that. Gods and followers who were once mortal honestly can’t handle the weight of living forever, of seeing loved ones die.” At this point the entire table was staring at her except for Tommy, who looked down at the table. “And besides. You don’t know if they even want that.” Tommy looked up at Wilbur and Fundy, opening his mouth to say something before a strange look came across his face. 

“Okay- you know what- just- forget I said anything, yeah? I-I’m gonna find Tubbo and see what he’s up to…” Tommy got up, pausing momentarily as his grip on the chair tightened and then he walked off.

“...Clementine, that was a bit harsh to say, don’t you think?” Ranboo asked. Clementine shook her head.

“He’ll be okay, I just...I don’t want him making any bad decisions.”

“Yeah, okay…” Ranboo said. 

“....so we aren’t gonna be immortal today?” Fundy said, a smile on his face, making the other three laugh a bit.

"No. Not today." Clementine said. 

---

It had started as something small. 

A small whisper here and there after the incident with Dream. Tommy assumed it was normal to relive it. He’d had similar problems after wars and such. He got over it though. Because he had to. He was going to live forever, so why waste it being haunted by the past?

But eventually, the voice got louder than most. It blocked out the stars sometimes. And it was only one voice. One terrible voice that no matter how much he tried couldn’t get rid of. And it was self-aware too. Nothing like flashbacks- no, it was Dream and it knew it. 

‘Tommy.’

“Shut the fuck up.” He mumbled, making his way towards Tubbo’s room. 

‘You can’t just shut up a voice in your head, Toms, I think that’d be way too simple.’

“You shouldn’t be using that nickname.”

‘Aww, but we’re friends, aren’t we Tommy? Why can’t a friend use your nickname?’

“We aren’t fucking friends.” He spat, knocking on the goat boy’s door. Tubbo opened it with a bright smile.

“Tommy! How’ve you been, big man?” 

“Absolute shit.” Tubbo’s face morphed into one of confusion.

“What? What happened?” Tommy opened his mouth to spill, but paused. A laugh echoed.

‘ Yeah, go ahead and tell him. See who believes you, Toms.’ The voice spits out the nickname with venom and Tommy can’t help but recoil at the horrid tone. 

“I, uh- I just offered an idea and Clem shot it down, nothing much…” Tubbo looked like he had something to say, a concerned look on his face, so Tommy decided a distraction was needed.

“On the bright side. I have taken your idea into consideration and decided I am no longer on house arrest.” Tubbo raised an eyebrow, a grin making its way across both boys' faces as Tommy answered Tubbo’s unspoken question. “Let’s go build a fuckin’ bomb, Tubster.” 

“Hell yeah!” The goat boy cheered. 

They both got grounded later on, but dammit if it wasn’t the thing Tommy needed to feel a bit better. He'd talk to Ranboo about the voice later. 

Chapter Text

Hey everyone, I know I haven’t made any updates to this story in a long ass time, and I apologize for that. It’s been a long couple months for me, family stuff has come up and I really couldn’t bring myself to write, especially with how everything’s been going around me.

I will be continuing this, it’s not done. It was just a mix of writer’s block and just general busyness and no motivation, and now I’m in a bit of a better place where I can continue writing again. Now, I won’t guarantee a full update schedule or anything updated soon, just know I’m working on it, everything’s just really crazy at the moment. Also, I get distracted very easily so there’s that.

But I hope you all are having an amazing day, and I hope I’m able to write this as good as before haha.

Also also, I might be thinking about starting a newer story, but that’s for another time- the drafts aren’t fully done and nothing’s set in stone, but expect me to take on a too big project soon :D

Chapter Text

Tommy found Ranboo sitting outside, enjoying the nice weather. Tommy sat down beside him with a huff, looking ahead.

“Um...is everything okay, Tommy?” Ranboo questioned softly. Tommy looked down.

“...do you still have that voice, Ranboo?” Ranboo blinked in surprise before thinking for a moment.

“Sometimes...though not as much as before. I think he’s been too busy, which is concerning…” Tommy hummed. 

“How...do you deal with it? Ignore it?” Ranboo looked over at him. Tommy refused to look back. 

“I- why do you need to know..?” Ranboo stared for a moment before his eyes widened. “Tommy, are you-”

“It’s just a question, if you don’t wanna answer, I won’t fuckin ask-” Tommy tries to get up but Ranboo grabs his arm. 

“Wait.” He pulled Tommy back down. “Well- it’s a hard question to answer. Most of the time, what I do is try to keep myself busy, whether that be talking to others, helping Techno or Tubbo with something- or even just writing stuff down.” Ranboo gestured to the book in his lap with a laugh. Tommy nodded. 

“So you just distract yourself.” 

“Eh- well, basically. I try to focus on my own thoughts, and especially having someone around to keep me grounded really helps.” Tommy snorts.

“Is that why Tubbo insisted you two share a room?” Ranboo slightly winced.

“Well- let’s just say I had a particularly bad day with the voice, and Tubbo was there- I didn’t really want to share a room in case I ever accidentally hurt him, but Tubbo reassured me that he’d be fine.” Ranboo said with a sheepish smile. Tommy thought for a moment before getting up. 

“Alright! Thanks, boob boy, see ya at lunch!” Tommy said, setting off towards the woods.

“Wait- where are you going?” Ranboo asked. Tommy looked back and shrugged.

“I have some things I need to do. And besides, I don’t wanna have to sit inside all day. That’s boring.” 

“Aren’t you grounded?”

“Are you gonna tell?” Ranboo put his hands up.

“Nope. No involvement. Go ahead and dig yourself a hole. I’m gonna go talk to Tubbo.” Tommy grinned as Ranboo stood.

“That’s what I thought. See ya later, Boo!” Tommy yelled as he ran off. Ranboo softly laughed as he turned away and went inside. 

---

To say Tommy hadn’t been here in a while was an understatement. The village was as lively as ever. 

He made his way through the crowds, seeing what has changed since he’s been gone. Not much, of course, just some new faces, though there was a new bakery... he’d check that out later, maybe bring home a cake or something because he was 100% going to be in deep shit for just leaving out of the blue, but what can he say? He’s a wanderer at heart. 

Out of the corner of his eye, he saw a flash of green, making him uneasy. Dream...Dream wouldn’t come to a crowded village, right? Stuffing his hand in his pocket, he made a small knife, going towards where he saw it. Now, he knew he wouldn’t be able to kill Dream like that, Gods can’t die. However, it could give him time to get away if it was unexpected enough. 

He crept around the corner only to find an abandoned alleyway. He didn’t go into it, obviously. He wasn’t stupid. The voice laughed. 

You’ve made plenty of stupid decisions before, Tommy. He scowled at that. Concluding that whatever was in the alleyway wasn’t worth his time, he turned around. 

Only to bump into someone. 

“The fuck?” He said, backing up. There before him stood a girl, her face? Mask? In a bored expression. She wore a green hoodie, a black and white skirt poking out from underneath. 

“Why’d you run into me like that? That was rude.” She said, crossing her arms. Tommy blinked in surprise before her words caught up to him. 

“Wha- I ran into you?!” She nodded.

“Yeah, why’d you do that? It’s rude.” He stared at her, completely speechless for once. He took a moment to process everything- and that’s when he realized something.

“You’re a goddess.” He mumbled. Her mask turned surprised momentarily before returning to a bored expression. 

“Yeah, and you just ran into me. Apologize.” 

“You were the one standing there! I was just turning around!” 

“Not an excuse, apologize.” He sighed and simply walked past her. She followed.

“Wh- why the fuck are you following me?” 

“Because. You need to apologize.” 

“I’m not going to fuckin apologize- you were the one who chose to stand directly behind me!” 

“Well, now you’re just yelling at a goddess. I could curse you.” Tommy scoffed.

“What are you even the goddess of, hm?” He turns around, narrowing his eyes. Her mask turns annoyed and she looks away.

“I don’t need to tell you anything. You’re mean.” Tommy groans into his hands. The voice speaks up after a silence. 

Trickery. It spoke. Tommy looked up, confused. 

“Trickery?” He asked the air. The goddess gave him a look.

“How’d you guess?” She said, clearly caught off guard by that. Tommy had to pause. Did the voice actually help for once? He shook his head. 

“None of your fuckin’ business.” He said, going back to walking. He needed to find that bakery, he was definitely low on time until his dad came and dragged his ass back to the house. 

“Can we burn down some houses?” Trickery asked. Tommy thought for a moment. Now, that did seem like a hell of a fun time...but at the same time- 

“No. I have things to get here. This is the only village for miles.” He said. “Speaking of which, are you just gonna follow me home or some shit? That’s pretty weird if you ask me.” 

“I dunno, maybe I will. You haven’t even introduced yourself yet, you’re ruder than I thought.”

“Wha- how-” He let out a defeated sigh. “Tommy Soot.” He heard the footsteps behind him stop. He looked behind him. The girl stood, shocked. He raised an eyebrow. 

“What?”

“...are you the Goddess of Space’s son?” And now he was shocked. A newer goddess knew of him? I guess his mum talked about him a lot. 

“Uh, yeah?” Her expression stayed for a moment before turning into a determined face. 

“Alright...my name’s Drista.” He nodded. 

“Nice to meet you.” She hummed, now walking in front of him.

“Where are you trying to go, by the way?” 

“Oh- there was this bakery I saw earlier, and I-” He didn’t exactly wanna say it was supposed to be his bribe to his dad and brother because he ran out. “I was hungry. Looked pretty good.” She nodded and helped him look around. Soon enough they found the place. Niki and Puffy’s Bakery read on the sign.

They stepped inside, Drista going immediately to the front counter and furiously ringing the bell. Tommy took a moment to look around. Some small tables were put here and there, no one really in the small place. Tommy stood beside Drista, who had yet to stop ringing the bell- gods that was loud. 

"Fuckin- can you quit that man?" 

"What, am I hurting your ears?"

"Yes." Tommy spat. 

"Ah, that really sucks, I don't have sensitive little human ears."

"I'm going to melt that bell."

"You wouldn't."

Just as Tommy reached out, a woman with dyed pink hair scrambled out from the back, and to the counter. Drista didn’t stop, just stared at her. The woman seemed just as sick of the bell as Tommy was at this point, so she softly put her hand on Drista’s and moved it away from the bell.

“Um, hello...can I help you?” Tommy cleared his throat, Drista simply glaring at the woman for stopping her. 

“How much for a cake?” He asked. 

“Ah. What would be the occasion? Anything you want me to write on it?” Tommy shook his head.

“Just uh- don’t make it chocolate.” Tommy wondered if Fundy was like wolves in the eating sense, and he honestly didn’t want to test it out. The woman nodded with a smile, walking to the back and calling for ‘Puffy’. He guessed that that was Niki then. Drista reached out for the bell again only to be stopped by Tommy, who grabbed the bell and melted it with a star. 

“What the hell, Tommy?” 

“It was really fuckin annoying..” Drista huffed in annoyance and slumped over the counter. A moment later, Niki came back, a cake in hand. 

“Thankfully we had one blank one in the freezer!” She said with a laugh, handing it to him. He gave her the emeralds and thanked her.

“Feel free to come back any time!” She said as she waved to the two. 

So now they were back outside, this time with a cake. Tommy turned to go home, and the goddess followed. Tommy resigned himself to his fate and spent his time joking and getting to know Trickery itself. Eventually, they got near the edge of the village.

“No, but really, are you gonna follow me home? Sorry to say Dris, but I don’t think Dad’ll be pleased with me bringin’ home another deity, especially one that looks so much like…” He trailed off, really not wanting to say his name. Drista tilted her head in question before seeming to understand.

“I can change my clothes and stuff if that makes you feel better.” She said, the green changing to a purple. “This good?” Tommy nodded, grateful. They went back to walking.

“Do you have to have that mask or can you take it off?” He asked, honestly pretty curious. 

“Stuck to my face, I guess. I dunno, I’ve never had to take it off. I could try though.” Tommy walked backwards to look at her. She brought her hands up and grabbed the mask, attempting to take it off. That was until it made a horrible sound of ripping flesh. Tommy, horrified, scrambled to push it back onto her face with one hand, the other holding the cake. 

“Oookay never mind, let’s never try that again!” He said with a panicked laugh. Drista simply shrugged as they continued to the house. 

They made their way back, only to be met with a disappointed Wilbur and Fundy Soot standing on the porch. Tommy stopped at the two. 

“Tommy.” Wilbur said.

“Dad. Fundy.” He said. “I, uh- got cake?” He held up the cake, Fundy immediately breaking the angry facade and running over to snatch it up, which made Tommy laugh as Fundy ran inside and announced that his brother had brought a cake. Wilbur however, stared still. Tommy cleared his throat.

“Uh- I’d like to apologize, but-” 

“Oh my gods-” Wilbur breathed out. 

“What! You can’t just keep me locked up, man!”

“Tommy, you didn’t tell anyone where you were going!” 

“Like you would’ve let me!” Tommy crossed his arms.

“Because what if-” 

“You need to stop being paranoid, Wil- I’m fine.”

“You know I have a damn good reason for being paranoid, Tommy Innit Soot.” Tommy grumbled to himself as Drista shifted in his spot.

“Are we gonna go inside yet, or?” Wilbur’s gaze turned towards the goddess.

“Toms, who’s this?” Tommy looked up again, thinking for a moment before answering.

“I may have also brought home another goddess.”

“You cannot be serious.” 

Meanwhile, two gods, two friends argue over one child.

---

“What the hell are you thinking with this?”

“Are you going to help me or not?” Chaos spat, making Fire recoil. 

“Why would I?! You’re messing with things way beyond silly pranks at this point- look it was funny at first, but this is too much.” 

“So you’re backing out?” 

“The elders are looking for you already. They won’t stop until they find you.”

“Do you really think I haven’t thought about that? I’ve thought about this all for so long and he really did it to himself!” Chaos ever smiling at the memory of the stars aligning themselves in such a position to be snatched- to play games and bend and twist at the will of Chaos itself. The game wasn’t over and Chaos didn’t intend to let it end anytime soon. Fire frowned, deeply uncomfortable at his friend’s obsessions. 

“What’s your endgame here, anyway? You’re just asking to get killed- your brother isn’t going to have mercy on you.”

“My endgame is chaos. You know this. It’s always been this. My only question to you is are you willing to join me?” Chaos held its hand out to the Flame. The Fire, however, danced away slightly. 

“I don’t...this is a horrible idea- I have people I care about. Hell, you have people who care about you. This isn’t a good idea.” Chaos frowned.

“We’ve gone too far already. It’s too late to go back. We need to finish this.”

“ You can finish this.” The Flame said, thinking of a follower of time and a duck hybrid who would be devastated if he went through with this. 

“...you’re backing out?” Chaos asked. The Fire nodded.

“I’m sorry, I just- this is getting too much and I- there’s people I just can’t give up. Not for chaos, not for some kid or some game you’re playing. I’m sorry.” They stood in silence for a moment before Chaos turned its back on the Flame. 

“Fine. I’ll do it alone.” Chaos said, walking off.

“Fine.” The Flame said, desperately wanting to find the words to tell his friend to stay, to come back, that they can figure it out together, get help, but he can’t. So all he does is turn the other way and say his final words to a friend before leaving. 

“I’m sorry, Dream.”