Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Dream stood on the bare ground. Serious expression on his face. Sword in hand as maniacal laughter echoed around him.

Deep purples and blacks swirled around the empty area.

“Wilbur! I will stop you! Cease these terrible deeds!”

Wilbur only laughed from where he stood. The ground pushed up to a small podium. His eyes swirling with the same purple and black as it spilled from his staff. The gem stone on top glowing brightly.

“Really Dream? You’d think you could get some better dialogue?! That was horrendous!”

Dream grit his teeth, “I’m going to stop you!”

“You sound ridiculous. So cliche.” Wilbur grinned, “What next? Going to go on a whole rant about how friendship is going to save the world?”

“Maybe if you weren’t a villain then you’d have friends!”

Wilbur’s smile wavered for just a moment before he burst out laughing, “Oh this is rich! Dream, we both know how this goes. The hero beats the big bad villain. That’s how all these stories go. So go ahead and STOP ME!”

Dream’s face fell to fear as his sword shook in his hands, “I don’t- I don’t have anything...”

Wilbur titled his head to the side in thought. A grin crawling up his face.

“Well. Isn’t this just so interesting! Perhaps fate has a different story in mind for us! Perhaps she was bored!”

Tears started to stream down Dream’s face, “But I’m- I’m supposed to be the hero!”

“Maybe in this story... Good things don’t happen to heroes.”

Wilbur picked his staff up, the purple swirling around it as the crystal glowed brighter. Suddenly a beam of purple and black shot at Dream. A manic cackle erupting from Wilbur as Dream blocked it with his shield. The beam pushing him further and further back.

Dream screaming for help.

The shield began to crack.

“PLEASE! THIS ISN’T HOW IT’S SUPPOSED TO GO! I WAS SUPPOSED TO STOP YOU! TO WIN!”

Wilbur refused to answer him any longer.

He was winning. Actually winning!

“Perhaps it’s time for my cliche line! I WILL RULE THIS ENTIRE WORLD AND YOU WILL BE ABLE TO DO NOTHING TO STOP IT! YOU ARE AN INSECT DREAM! A GOOD FOR NOTHING BULLY WHO THINKS HIMSELF A HERO! HOW FITTING A FATE FOR YOU! HOW FITTING!” Wilbur laughed and laughed as Dream’s shield shattered and the beam struck him. Sending him flying into the air and into the dirt.

Dark lines connected to his staff. Coming from everywhere in the world. Different crystals shooting out the same purple beams as they connected to each other and to Wilbur’s staff.

He smiled at the grid it was forming.

“OH THIS IS WONDERFUL ISN’T IT?!? HOW BEAUTIFUL A FATE FOR THIS WORLD! FOR US ALL!”

Dream was in blubbering tears as his armor fell off. His skin torn from where he skidded against the dirt.

“Oh and all your little charms are gone. Nothing left to defend you Dream! YOU LOSE!” Wilbur’s voice echoed.

Wilbur pulled his staff up, ready to pull it down and seal the world’s fate.

To seal his fate as the lone ruler of the world. A lonely, lonely throne awaits him.

Tears spilled down his cheeks but the grin didn’t fade.

He started to pull the staff down, ready to slams it to the ground when suddenly a bright light shone across the land.

Wilbur and Dream pulled their hands up to block the light. The beams all connecting to his staff breaking.

A figure descended from the light. Black wings on his back as his hair shone a radiant yellow.

“Oh you’ve got to be kidding me!” Wilbur shouted.

“Wilbur.” The man’s voice echoed.

Wilbur’s lips pulled up into a snarl, “Father.”

Tommy sighed as he flipped the page.

Blank.

He closed the book. Setting it on his night stand.

“THOMAS!” His mother shouted.

“COMING!” Tommy yelled as he hoped off his bed and rushed through the door.

He didn’t want to make them upset.

————————————————————————————

Tommy sat at the table. A plate of food being put in front of him.

It was noticeably emptier than his mother’s and father’s.

“What took you so long?” His mother asked as she sat down.

“I came as soon as you called-“

“I bet it’s that book. Gonna have to get rid of it one of these days.” His dad said as he swung a beer bottle back and let it drain down his throat.

“NO!” Tommy shouted.

The table went silent and Tommy shrunk in on himself.

“No I mean- I’ll do extra chores and- whatever you need just please don’t take it.”

His mother rolled her eyes, poking at her food, “Fine. Take the chores tomorrow then. And over the weekend.”

Tommy nodded, “Yes ma’am.”

His father snorted, “You’re too old for fairytales anyway.”

“It’s not a-“

His father waved his hand dismissively, “Yeah Yeah. Not a fairytale.”

Tommy pushed down the glare. His father probably never even read the book.

It was Tommy’s favorite. His comfort.

After every punishment, whenever he got the chance, he read the book.

Sometimes he even slept with it. Curling around it and crying into his pillow.

Tommy shook his head, focusing on his meal.

————————————————————————————

At the end, the two parents emptied their quarter full plates into the trash. Tommy watching the food go as his stomach grumbled.

He might be able to sneak down tonight and take the leftovers from the trash.

He got up and washed the dishes, letting his parents go to the living room to watch tv.

Once finished, he marched up stairs to read his book one more time.

————————————————————————————

Wilbur’s lips pulled up into a snarl, “Father.”

Tommy flipped the page.

Blank.

He sighed, closing the book.

No matter how much he wishes it to be true, the book never ends.

He never finds out if Wilbur wins or what his father does.

Of course he’s shown his book off to his classmates. They all made fun of him for still reading fairytales.

He’s 8. And the book isn’t a fairytale!

Clay had absolutely died laughing at the terrible writing of the book. Which Tommy probably took more offense to than necessary.

He said that Wilbur’s father showing up made no sense.

But if Clay had REALLY read the book then maybe he would have picked up on the subtle signs that he existed!

Like how the man walks out on Wilbur early on for unknown reasons!

But noooooo.

Tommy glances at the clock. Well past midnight.

Tommy slips off his bed, careful to not make a noise as he heads down the steps and towards the kitchen.

He opens up the trashcan and reaches inside. Shuffling around until he found some stray food.

He picked it up with a triumphant smile and stuffed it in his face. His stomach only rumbling for more.

He reached in for another handful when he lost balance and slipped, the trashcan falling with him and throwing trash all over the floor.

Tommy gasped as the sound vibrated through the home.

His breathing began to pick up.

He should move.

Should get up and run upstairs. Pretend to be asleep so his parents don’t catch him.

But he can’t move.

Not when the light turns on. Not when words are shouted at him. Not when he’s yanked up by the shirt and thrown to the ground again with a loud thump. Not when hands get raised and come rocketing down.

————————————————————————————

Tommy falls into his bed. Ignoring the way his body aches as bruises bloom underneath his skin.

He grabs his comfort, his book and cracks it open.

And he reads.

And reads.

And reads.

Until he can’t anymore.

To some, they may wish for Dream to come and save them. The hero of the story with a pure heart. Who chases away the evils of the world.

But Tommy can’t find it in himself to care for Dream. There’s holes in the story.

Pieces of backstory missing.

But all he’s seen is Dream’s distaste towards Wilbur. Like he’s some pure evil Disney villain when he’s clearly not.

The book shows Wilbur has a heart.

Doesn’t it?

Tommy decides not to get into some long rant about their characters and shuts his eyes.

Picturing what he does every night.

Someone bursting into his home, into his school and saving him.

Bundling him into their arms as the people who’ve wronged him receive justice.

And that person is only ever pictured as one Wilbur Soot.

————————————————————————————

Tommy slapped his hand over the alarm as it blared in his ears. Slowly getting up and wincing at the pain.

He’s 8. He shouldn’t hear his bones creek and feel his muscles tense as he tries to get up in the morning.

He shuffles out of bed and gets ready. Avoiding his parents at all costs and packing his things for school.

His hand hovers over the book.

He probably shouldn’t leave it here because his parents are angry and might take it away.

He carefully packs it inside and rushes to the door.

Not even saying hello as he passed by his family.

————————————————————————————

“Hey Tommy!” A boy shouted as he hopped on the bus.

“Hey Tubbo. Ranboo.” Tommy dipped his head to the two and sat down.

Ranboo gave a small wave in return.

Ranboo and Tubbo are the only good things in his life besides his book. The only people that have stayed by his side despite what others thought of him.

“You alright there man? You got a bruise on your face.” Ranboo asked.

Tommy shrugged, “Fine. You know how it is.”

He ignored the grim look on the other’s faces.

Tommy’s tried to report his parents before. He had a phone in hand and dialed the number.

His parents had found him before he could finish the call.

He regrets that decision every day of his life. The permanent limp he has says enough.

————————————————————————————

The bell rang and Tommy groaned. Pushing out of his chair and heading towards recess.

He sits down by the door and opens his backpack. Pulling out his book and beginning to read it for the millionth time.

He doesn’t even remember when he got the book. His parents don’t remember getting it for him, and none of their friends or family remember getting it for him.

He’s just... always had it.

And he’s never been able to find another copy of it.

Due to their different grade levels, Ranboo and Tubbo don’t share recess.

So Tommy is stuck with Clay. Who is currently striding up to him.

“Reading your little fairytale book again?” Clay smiles mockingly.

Tommy rolls his eyes, “Not a fairytale.”

“Oh come on! It’s got witches and magic! And it’s for little kids.”

Tommy grips his book tighter, “It’s not for little kids.”

Clay and his little friend group chuckle.

“I think we should play hero and villain!”

Tommy’s eyes widen. He hates that game.
Every time they make him the villain. And they always use his book. Making Clay, Dream, and Tommy, Wilbur.

If they even bothered to pay attention then they’d see Dream is against bullying.

Though in the book all he does is go up to some kids and tell them to stop being mean.

Tommy calls it plot armor that the bullies see the error of their ways instantly and beg for the bullied’s forgiveness.

The bullied forgives and it’s all sunshine and rainbows after that.

Tommy likes to think Wilbur would just zap them with some magic until they were crying like little kids.

But Tommy doesn’t have magic so he’s stuck being bullied and alone.

“I don’t want to.” Tommy says, knowing it will do nothing.

Clay only rolls his eyes, “You don’t really get a choice in the matter. So I’d start running because I’m going to be the hero.”

Tommy stood up and held his book close as he booked it.

————————————————————————————

The final bell rang. Tommy wincing at the pain throughout his body.

Maybe it’s because he was already hurting, but Clay’s little game seemed tougher than usual.

Not to mention the fact somebody tattled on Clay and they somehow both got detention.

Don’t ask him. He doesn’t know how that happened.

So once detention is over he plans on running for his life. Because Clay is sending him looks that could kill. He can feel it burning in his skull.

And he really doesn’t want to die today.

He starts on his homework. Ignoring the spitballs getting launched his way.

And Clay calls him the childish one.

————————————————————————————

Detention is over.

“OH TOMMY!”

Tommy’s shoes squeak against the tile floor. Rounding the corner as he ran further down the halls.

He busted through the door.

Of course it’s raining, because he can’t seem to catch a break today!

He heard Clay’s feet stomp against the ground behind him. Little splashes of water kicking up and soaking into his pants.

Thing is Tommy failed to notice the side walk wasn’t quite even so his foot caught on the ground.

Tommy fell face first into the concrete. Letting out a pained sound at his skin rubbing against the gritty material.

Tommy felt a kick to the side. Gasping out in pain.

Then he heard his backpack unzip.

No no no no-

“YOU’RE JUST AS WORTHLESS AS THIS LITTLE KID’S BOOK!”

Tommy instantly tried to push himself up. Seeing Clay pull his book out of his backpack.

“NO! NO PLEASE!” Tommy desperately reaches for it but Clay just pushed him back down. Dropping his book into a puddle.

“NO!”

Clay stomped on it for good measure.

“GROW UP ALREADY!” Clay yelled as the book soaked through.

Tommy tried to reach for it but Clay just pulled him away. Tommy managed a good kick to Clay’s chest and he stumbled back.

Tommy rushed and grabbed his book before sprinting off towards home.

————————————————————————————

By the time he reached home, it stopped raining.

His parents weren’t home. So nobody to hear him cry as he fell to his knees in the front lawn.

Their home wasn’t secluded but it wasn’t in a normal neighborhood either. Houses were a little walk away from each other.

So no neighbors to hear him either.

He grabbed the book as he sobbed.

Opening up the pages to see they were completely drenched. Falling apart as the ink became unreadable.

The little pictures drawn at the start of each chapter were distorted, making a horror movie scene.

Tears fell onto the book as he flipped through each page.

He’s read it enough to not even need the words.

He spoke the story out loud.

Flipping through each page, them crumbling beneath his finger tips.

“Wilbur’s lips-“ Tommy hiccuped, “Pulled up into a snarl, ‘Father.’”

Tommy flipped the page.

Not blank.

Tommy blinked. The page was...

Completely dry? Gold lettering etched into it.

Tommy squinted at it in confusion.

Running his fingers gently across. Feeling the grooves.

Tommy began to read it out loud.

“A darkness consumed that which was good
A light inside, slowly dying
To a world who called it night
Sealing itself a fate of eternal darkness
By its own selfish greed
A light will become an ever consuming black
And the world will pay its dues
A tale etched into stone.
Unworn and kept safe through time.
Until a new light is born
To blow away the darkness at its very core
To tame a beast so filled with sorrow
And change the very story of fate”

Suddenly the golden letters began to shine blindingly bright. Tommy covering his face with his hands.

It sounded like thunder was crackling around him as something BOOMED.

————————————————————————————

Wilbur is completely done with Phil. The man leaves him when he needs him the most, then shows up with some ancient prophecy like,

“Oh Wilbur. You’re a bad guy but you aren’t really and there’s still good inside you. I’m trapping you in this book until someone has the ability to tame you.”

Pfft. As if he can be tamed.

He honestly feels bad for the poor sap who got picked to be his tamer.

His eyes open to a clearing. A house in front of him and a forest behind.

He’s dealt with the whole chosen one thing. His father thinks he can change fate?

Fate decided to make him the villain. Fate decided he wins.

It’s funny to see his father even try to change it.

Now all he has to do is get rid of the supposed chosen one that’s supposed to tame his dark heart.

His eyes glance around. Spinning in a small circle.

His brows furrow.

Surely they must be right here right?

There’s a gasp from... below him?

His eyes slowly look down, and down, and down.

It’s a child.

‘Dad, you’ve got to be kidding me.’

Chapter Text

‘Dad, you’ve got to be kidding me.’

Surely he wouldn’t put a child up to this?

The blonde kid is looking at him with wide and amazed eyes.

Yeah. Wilbur is sure seeing somebody appear in a flash of light is cool.

He doesn’t sense any magical abilities from the child so he’s probably never seen a witch before.

Stinks he’s going to have to kill the kid.

“Um. Hello.” Wilbur says.

The kid scrambled up and absolutely beams at him.

Wilbur blinks. Nobody has ever... looked at him that way before.

“HI! I- I- I CAN’T BELIEVE YOU’RE REAL! YOU WERE IN THE BOOK AND THEN AND THEN-“

Wilbur felt just a sting of guilt.

Okay so... he’s never actually killed a kid before. Or... or anybody really.

He doesn’t really kill people. Why do that when you can control their minds?

They’re useful slaves after all.

But he is a villain and therefore should kill this supposed chosen one before he somehow gains powers and stops him.

His father is powerful.

But Wilbur isn’t sure he’s more powerful than fate.

The kid is still rambling on about Wilbur’s life. Which somehow the kid knows.

Wilbur supposed he must have read the book he was trapped in.

How far back did that go?

Wilbur shook himself off, staring at the kid who looked like he might pass out because he wasn’t breathing.

He has to do it. To end this kid’s ramble.

Permanently

Wilbur sighs, he can at least make it painless. He’ll just put the boy to sleep and end it then.

(Despite the way every part of he screams not to)

Wilbur reaches his fingerless-gloved hand out and places it gently on the boy’s head. A magic beginning to glow just beneath the surface.

The boy’s rambles stop immediately and his eyes shut, but not from his magic.

He leans heavily into Wilbur’s hand.

Wilbur’s face contorted to pained, this kid-

Wilbur can’t help the way hair slips past his fingers and it’s SO SOFT-

ABORT ABORT ABORT

Wilbur pulls his hand back like he’s just been burned. The kid stumbles forward and falls onto him. The child wrapping his arms around his legs and just starting to cry.

Wilbur holds his hands up, “Uh.”

The kid just keeps crying. Tears soaking into his pants.

He hopes it’s tears and not snot.

He slowly brings his hand down and pats the boy’s head.

“Uh. Please stop crying. Please?”

The kid only cries more, uttering, “You’re real. You’re real. You’re real.” Through his sobs.

“Oh, of course I’m real? I’m here aren’t I?” Wilbur tried to placate, “Can you maybe just-“ He pried the kid off him.

A tear stricken face meets his. And if the child was crying before, he was bawling now.

“Oh no! No please stop!” Wilbur felt completely helpless.

What are you supposed to do when a kid cries? He doesn’t know. He’s never dealt with kids before!

He tries to think of what his father did before he ditched him.

Wilbur slowly gets on his knees, putting his hands in the air, “He-Hey...” Wilbur thought for a moment, “Uh... What’s wrong? Please just- stop crying; it hurts my ears-“ and his heart but it shouldn’t.

His heart should sing at the sound of a child crying. He’s a villain after all.

(But it doesn’t)

The child just extends his arms.

Oh. Oh the child wants a hug.

Wilbur pulls a face at the snot running down the boy’s face.

Disgusting

“I-“ Wilbur sighed, “Okay, if you just stop crying already-“

He didn’t get to finish before the boy tackled him. Wrapping his small arms around Wilbur’s larger frame. Well he tried to anyway. His arms were a tad too short.

Wilbur awkwardly pulled his hand down and patted the boy’s back, “Um. There there.”

The boy just kept crying, though it wasn’t as loud and hurt as before.

Why is he crying? Is it because he’s scared?

Surely if he read the book then he’d know Wilbur is the villain.

But you don’t usually cry into the chest of the person you’re scared of and hold onto them for dear life.

He supposes in order for the hug to be complete, he has to hug back.

No. No, absolutely not. He is a villain. Pure evil runs through his veins and he does NOT hug children.

The boy looked up at him. Big, round, blue eyes looked into his brown.

“You’re-“ the kid laughed slightly, “You’re real!”

There was so much... excitement in his eyes.

And he was smiling at Wilbur.

At Wilbur.

The big bad man who wants to enslave the world.

The child still has tears streaming down his face as he buries it back into Wilbur’s chest.

Wilbur doesn’t stop his arms from wrapping around the boy’s smaller frame.

Wilbur felt tears prick his own eyes.

He’s never-

Never been looked at like that.

Like he wasn’t some monster.

(Not since that day)

“What’s your- your name?” Wilbur asked as he choked down whatever was crawling up his throat.

The boy jerked back in his hold and beamed at him, “TOMMY!”

Wilbur couldn’t help but chuckle at Tommy’s excitedness, “Well my name is Wilbur.”

“I know! You’re in my book!”

“Your book?”

“Yeah!” Tommy looks to the ground and frowns, “Well. It was here somewhere.”

“It may have disappeared when I came into existence.”

Tommy’s frown deepened before disappearing into a smile as he looked back to Wilbur, “That’s okay! I have you now! You’re my favorite character!” Tommy squeezed Wilbur tighter.

Wilbur felt the breath leave him.

He was... Tommy’s favorite character?

Of course. Everybody loves a good villain.

Yet he couldn’t stop the fondness growing inside him if he tried.

No he isn’t going soft. He isn’t.

He really should kill this kid. He should.

Suddenly Tommy shoots up, looking around frantically.

“We have to go!” Tommy lets go of him only to latch on to his wrist and start dragging him towards the house.

Wilbur gets up and allows him to, picking up his staff off the ground as he goes.

“Is this your home, Tommy?” Wilbur asked as Tommy pushed through the front door.

“No. This is some stranger’s house.” Tommy said flatly.

Wilbur raised a brow.

“Of course it’s my house!” Tommy shouts as he’s being dragged upstairs and into a room marked ‘Tommy.’

Tommy slammed the door and rushed to the window. Leaving Wilbur to look around the room.

Are all children’s rooms this bare?

Wilbur hears... something. He isn’t entirely sure what it is so he strides up to the window with Tommy.

“What is that?” Wilbur asked confusedly as he stares at the strange metal thing with wheels.

“It’s a car. Like a carriage except less cool.”

“How does it work?”

“Mechanics. I don’t know.” Tommy said as he closed the curtains, “My parents can’t know you’re here. They’ll-They’ll... they’ll probably kill you or kick you out.”

Wilbur snorted, “I’d like to see them try.”

It made sense that the parents would try to kill him though. He is a strange man in the house. They’d want to protect their child.

The child he was about to kill...

Wilbur glances at Tommy, who is currently trying to find a good hiding spot for him.

“Do you think you could fit under the bed?” Tommy asked and looked at him like it was a genuine question.

Wilbur glanced at the child sized bed, “Probably not. No.”

Tommy grumbled and opened his closet, “I can clear some stuff out here...”

“Relax. I can just weave an unseeing spell over me.”

“An unseeing spell?”

“Use your brain Toms.” Wilbur halted at the nickname.

What.

Tommy seemed to be frozen as well.

They both stared anywhere but each other and Wilbur contemplated his life decisions before Tommy coughed.

“I assume like invisibility?”

“Yes.” Wilbur finally looked at him again.

So young.

“How old are you, child?”

Tommy squawked at that, “I am not a child! I am 8 and a big man!”

Wilbur covered his snicker with his palm.

This kid-

Wilbur tried to wipe the smile off his face but a tiny one remained, “Well. ‘Big man’ I’m sure your parents would want to check on you.”

Tommy frowned and looked to the ground, “No. They don’t... they’ll just call me down for dinner. Maybe.”

“Maybe?” Wilbur asked with furrowed brows.

Now that he thinks about it... it’s strange to leave your 8 year old all alone isn’t it?

(Phil didn’t seem to think so)

Tommy nodded, “Yeah they- I did something wrong yesterday so they might not let me have dinner.”

“What.” Wilbur said darkly.

Tommy flinched at the tone of voice. Eyes widening as he looked at Wilbur.

“They um... might not let me have food?”

“I heard you.” Wilbur said as he grit his teeth.

“Look it’s not the worst they do and I’d rather spend my time with you-“

“It isn’t the worst they do?!” Wilbur asked.

“Um, well no.”

Wilbur takes notice of the bruises on Tommy’s face as he bends down to eye level. Grabbing Tommy’s face and pulling it closer. Tommy stares at him with fear as Wilbur inspects the bruises.

“Did they do this to you?” Wilbur asked with a strange sound to his voice.

“Some...”

Look. Wilbur might be a villain.

But that doesn’t mean he’s okay with child abuse.

‘You were about to kill a child’ a voice whispers.

Wilbur’s face saddens.

He didn’t-

He doesn’t-

He’s not going to.

Not anymore.

He’ll never hurt a hair on this boy’s head. He’s gone through enough already. The poor thing.

He’ll make sure this boy’s parents pay.

How could they not see the sunshine they held?

Tommy smiles brighter then anything he’s ever seen!

How could they not want to see that everyday?

Wilbur’s face darkens again, “Well then. We’ll just have to take care of that won’t we?”

Tommy’s face is still frightened. Admittedly it’s kind of adorable with his face all squished up in his big hands.

“Relax. I’m not going to hurt you.” Wilbur smiles.

Something shifts in Tommy. His face morphing to something soft. Still all squished up in Wilbur’s hands.

Wilbur releases, waving his hand gently over Tommy’s face as his hands glow.

Instantly the bruises fade.

Wilbur then moves to take care of Tommy’s parents when Tommy grabs his wrist.

“Can we please just... stay.”

“I’ll be right back.”

“Please.” Tommy insists and there’s tears clinging to his eyes again.

Wilbur sighs and bends back down, “Okay.”

Tommy smiles softly at that and runs into his chest again. Giving him another hug to add to the very few Wilbur’s had in quite sometime.

Wilbur hesitates less to wrap his arms around the boy.

————————————————————————————

The two sat like that for a few minutes before Wilbur pulled back.

“I’d still like you to eat something.” He said as he walked over to the window, pulling it open and striking his staff against the floor.

Suddenly plants began to sprout from the ground below, rising higher and higher until it reached the window.

Tommy stood beside him, watching in wonder as fruit grew right in front of his face.

Wilbur picked a few, “You may have some.”

Tommy didn’t hesitate to show his wide, toothy smile as he grabbed a handful.

Wilbur struck the ground once more and the plants withered away.

Tommy didn’t hesitate to dig in. Wilbur following slowly. Tommy pulled himself up onto his bed and kicked his feet over the edge.

Wilbur smiled slightly at how childish he looks, “So Tommy.”

Tommy looked up at him with his sky blue eyes.

“Tell me about yourself.”

“So.” Tommy said with a mouthful, “I like the color red. And blue. Though red and white is my favorite combination. Ya know your book doesn’t say anything about your favorite color. What is it?”

Wilbur shook his head with a chuckle, “Either yellow or blue. Thought black is also a good color.”

Tommy made a face, “So you’re emo?”

“I don’t know what that means.”

Tommy eyed the brown trench coat and black turtle neck he was wearing, “Definitely emo. Anyway so more about me-“

Wilbur just watched Tommy ramble on about himself. Somehow he could jump from favorite animals to the meaning of the universe and life itself.

He was rather mature for his age, Wilbur thinks. He acts childish yet somehow holds wisdom.

It’s a strange and entrancing combination. To watch Tommy go off. Wilbur found he never wished to interrupt.

————————————————————————————

Tommy laughed at his own joke and Wilbur laughed along until they heard stomping footsteps approaching.

Wilbur waved his staff around. An invisible veil coating him, though Tommy could still see him.

A man burst into the room, looking rather drunk in Wilbur’s opinion.

“What are you up here laughing about, boy?! You’ve got nothing to be laughing about.”

Tommy shrunk in on himself, “Just thinking-“

“Thinking about what a joke you are?”

Tommy frowned but didn’t retort.

“What got nothing to say?” The man said and Wilbur could see he wasn’t really there. Angry for no reason except the alcohol rotting away at his insides.

“I don’t know what you want me to say.” Tommy admitted.

The man grew furious, striding towards Tommy and wobbling slightly, “You dare talk back to me when you’re already in trouble?”

Tommy flinched back and pulled his arms up as the man raised his hand.

“Stop.”

The man halted. The voice was sickeningly sweet. Weaving into his mind like spider silk and capturing any of his thoughts.

Tommy watched as Wilbur walked to the man, a certain grace about him.

“Well. You are quite something aren’t you?” Wilbur said as he titled his head, inspecting the man, “Such a hideous creature. I would know.”

The man’s eyes were wide with worry and fear. Perhaps some confusion laced in there too.

Wilbur felt a burning rage fill him.

He’s never wanted to kill someone before. Not really.

They call him Siren for a reason. He entrances people. Makes them his minions. Killing them would be a total waste of potential.

But now. Now he wants to watch this man burn.

The fact this man’s heart is still beating offends him. He has no potential.

Just a sad shell of a person.

Maybe Wilbur should just give in to his villainy even more. No more dancing around what he’s meant to be.

A killer

Someone who doesn’t take a single ounce of disrespect and does what he pleases.

That’s what he should do. What he’s meant to do.

A small hand slips into his.

Wilbur looks down and sees Tommy’s concerned gaze.

He didn’t even realize he was trembling.

“Wilbur? I think you scared him enough.” Tommy said.

Wilbur looked back to the man.

“Wilbur?”

Wilbur sighed, “Leave and forget this happened. Do not return here.”

The man turned and left in a daze. Wilbur shutting the door behind him.

Tommy squeezed his hand and Wilbur smiled at him.

“Thank you.” Tommy said with a smile.

“You’re welcome.” Wilbur said back.

————————————————————————————

Wilbur looked to the window. The sun had long since set and Tommy was still rambling.

“Toms.”

Tommy stopped mid-sentence, tilting his head to the side in an adorable manner.

Wilbur smiled, “It’s late. Surely you need to be getting to bed?”

Tommy looked at the window with a small ‘o’ forming on his lips, “Yeah. Yeah, I guess so. Where are you going to sleep?”

“The floor is fine, I suppose.”

Tommy nodded and went to his closet, pulling out a few spare blankets and pillows he had stuffed in there for the winter time.

He unrolled the first blanket and placed the pillow gently on top. Making sure it was as fluffy as possible. Then he unfolded a second blanket and laid it on top.

Wilbur just watched with a smile and took off his brown coat. Setting it on top of his staff and leaning it in the corner.

When he turned back, Tommy had his makeshift bed all set up.

Tomorrow he’d work on his whole...

Taking over the world plans.

For now he laid down and listened to the blankets ruffle as Tommy slipped into his bed.

It was a few minutes in when Tommy’s sheets kept rustling.

“Tommy? Gonna go to sleep?” Wilbur chuckled.

Tommy turned and the moon light drifted through the window to frame his face. It was concerned and sad.

“You won’t... You’ll still be here right?” Tommy asked in a quiet voice, so quiet he barely heard it.

“Yeah of course.”

“You promise?” Tommy asked and it sounded so desperate.

“Yeah Tommy. I promise.” Wilbur said, and he meant it.

Tommy nodded and curled into a ball. Finally letting his eyes slip shut and sleep take him.

Wilbur watched his breathing steady out before letting his own eyes close.

Chapter Text

Wilbur was out gathering ingredients. Shuffling through the crowded streets.

He was tall for his age but the adults still had a foot or two on him.

He carried a basket full of leaves and other things. All things he needs for his and his father’s spells.

He made it to a vendor and bought a few herbs he needed. Laying the gold coins down on the table and giving the kind lady a smile and a ‘thank you’ before leaving.

He skipped through the town with a smile on his face. Ignoring the couple of dirty looks he received.

He headed into the forest to gather a few more things he needed.

The forest was nice. The trees weren’t so thick that sunlight couldn’t get through, but thick enough it provided a nice bit of shade.

He made it to a clearing and looked around at the flower field he stumbled into. Picking away at a few when he heard a shout.

He whirled around, recognizing the voice.

Dream.

The blonde haired boy stepped into the clearing with his friends. Waving at him with a sickeningly sweet smile.

“Hi Wilbur!”

Wilbur huffed and gripped his basket. He didn’t want to deal with Dream today.

“Hey Dream.” Wilbur said as he turned back to him.

The 8 year old only put on a fake curious expression, “What you got there?”

“Ingredients.” Wilbur answered.

“Ooooo. Ingredients for your evil spells?”

The other kids snickered.

Wilbur rolled his eyes and adjusted his basket. He accidentally wraps Dream in vines ONE TIME-

“They’re not evil.” Wilbur muttered.

“Oh come on Wil. We all know you’re going to be the villain.” Dream said with his usual smile.

Wilbur took a deep breath as tears pricked his eyes.

Dream always does this. Always tells him he will end being the villain.

The hero and the villain.

A cycle created every generation.

Once every couple of decades two people are chosen.

One a hero. The other a villain.

A mark will appear on the back of their hands. An eta symbol covered in healthy leaves for the heroes. A pi symbol with poison ivy growing on it for the villains.

No body knows how exactly the people are chosen.

Some say it’s the gods. Some say it’s an ancient witch who cursed the world to create stories as they watch with amusement.

Some say it’s fate herself.

One thing has been consistent, the hero is always a good person, and the villain is always bad.

So that’s why Wilbur can’t be the villain.

Because he works harder than anyone else to be a good person.

He doesn’t care to be the hero. But he doesn’t want to be the villain.

Dream has been calling him the villain since as long as he can remember. The reason being because he’s a witch, just as his father.

And even if his father is powerful and well respected, Dream doesn’t care about that.

Wilbur went to his father about it once. He told him to be the bigger person. To take the comments in stride and when he becomes a well respected witch, Dream will have nothing.

(However he didn’t tell his dad Dream goes farther than just comments. He’s going to prove he’s isn’t the villain and take the hits.)

“And I’m going to be the hero!” Dream shouted with a real smile, his friends cheering for him as well.

Wilbur rolled his eyes, “Sure Dream.”

Everybody loves Dream in the village. They all see him as this golden boy who will surely become the hero.

His story will be written in stone and passed on for generations. Every time the hero wins, and the villain loses. Most of the time even dying.

A few of the more popular stories he knows of are a girl trapped in a tower with extremely long hair, possible with the strange magic involved with these stories. Another of an old witch giving a girl a poisoned apple. Knights slaying dragons.

Typical man gets the girl by doing impossible feats.

The stories are always unrealistic and people seem to forget the power controlling the strings to craft the story it wants. People get killed trying to do the same things as these stories.

Every young man wants to be the hero, most ladies want to be the damsel in distress, and no body wants to be the villain. It’s practically a death sentence.

Wilbur just wants to be a friendly witch with great powers who helps people.

Wilbur focused back onto the conversation just in time to hear Dream.

“Let’s play hero and villain!”

Wilbur shuddered. Out in the field? With no one to see?

Dream won’t hesitate to get rough.

Wilbur bolted before Dream said anything.

Now Wilbur could easily defeat Dream. He could use all these ingredients and create powerful spells to knock Dream down with ease.

But he doesn’t.

Because he’s the bigger person.

Wilbur rushed back through the forest, Dream and his group’s footsteps thundering behind him. Twigs snapping beneath their feet.

It felt like a manhunt.

Wilbur made a critical mistake and looked back. As soon as he turned forward again, his foot got caught on a root. Him yelping as he fell face first into the grass.

Laughter echoed around him and he prepared for the worst.

————————————————————————————

Wilbur limped home.

It was dark out at that point. He ignored the bruises forming on his stomach and chest. One eye nearly swollen shut.

An empty basket on his arm.

Phil could probably heal him. But he can heal most of his injuries himself once he gets his staff.

He doesn’t take it everywhere with him incase it gets stolen.

He sneaks inside his home. Slipping past his father as he works on some totems.

The door opens with a creek and he closes it behind him, walking to his staff and grabbing it.

He closed his eyes and took a deep breath. A pink shine swirls around him as he breathes easier.

Relief fills him and he sets his staff back down. Collapsing onto his bed and curling inside the blankets.

Magic takes a lot out of him. Only being 8 years old.

Phil says he has great power in him, maybe to rival his own one day.

Wilbur smiled to himself.

He’d like that. Him and his father, two powerful witches.

He fell asleep, hoping he’d dream of a powerful duo.

————————————————————————————

Wilbur was on his knees.

Darkness surrounding him as he bent over and clutched his wrist. The back of his hand was burning. Burning like someone took a hot fire iron and dug it into his skin.

Searing on a branding as he sobbed.

Laughter echoed around him and he screamed for help.

But the laughing just grew louder.

Why was no one helping him?

Why are they laughing at him?

It burns.

Please.

Please somebody help.

PLEASE IT BURNS!

IT BURNS-

Wilbur woke up with a jolt.

Panting heavily as he grabbed his chest, trying to control his breathing.

It was just a dream. A strange, painful dream.

He still feels the phantom pains on his hand. He glances down and the breath catches in his throat.

He slowly lifts his shaking hand to his face, eyes wide.

He’s dreaming. He has to be dreaming.

It can’t be-

He isn’t-

A pi symbol stared back at him. Poison ivy growing off it.

Wilbur stumbles out of bed, “DAD! DAD! DAD PLEASE!”

Wilbur tripped down the steps. A very worried looking Phil throwing open his door and looking around frantically.

Wilbur felt the tears covering his face as he blubbered, “Dad! Dad! Dad dad dad! PLEASE PLEASE DAD!”

Wilbur collapsed into Phil’s arms as Phil tried to calm him, “Hey hey. Wil. It’s okay. I’m right here. I’ve got you. What’s wrong?”

Wilbur threw the back of his hand into Phil’s face, his lips quivering as he sobbed, “Dad I’m not- please I’m not- it’s a cruel joke please dad-“

Phil’s eyes widened in horror. His breathing picking up as he grabbed Wilbur’s wrist and inspected it. Phil flicked his hand and candles lit up the room in a warm glow.

He licked his thumb and started pressing against Wilbur’s hand. Trying to remove it as if it was just an ink spill and not a mark of death.

Wilbur flinched at how hard Phil pressed. Phil practically burning his skin with the friction.

Nothing came off.

“Dad! Dad please I’m not- I’m not a bad person! I don’t understand!”

Phil’s face turned solemn, “Son I’m... I’m so sorry.”

Wilbur screamed, fingers squeezing his father’s robe between them.

Phil rubbed his back soothingly, “Baby. I’m so sorry... I’m so so sorry...”

“Please- Daddy- I don’t wanna die!” Wilbur sobbed.

They collapsed to the ground as Phil just squeezed him tighter. Letting him sob and plead into his shoulder.

“I’m not bad! I’m not a villain! Dad please! Please!”

“Shh. Shh.” Phil hushed gently but it did nothing to sooth him, only screaming more.

Screams and sobs echoed around their home.

Wilbur’s pleas to the universe, to fate, ignored.

————————————————————————————

When Wilbur woke up, he was laying on Phil’s chest. Phil laying on the couch with an arm wrapped around him and the other waving in the air.

Books floated around them. Phil squinting at one before throwing it to the side.

“Dad?” Wilbur asked as he rubbed his eyes.

He glanced at the back of his hand and last night hit him like a wave.

“Dad-dad I-“

Phil got up, setting him on the couch before moving around to a shelf with a few drawers, “I know Wil. Here.” Phil threw him a pair of gloves, “Wear these to hide your mark.”

Wilbur caught them, staring at them for a moment.

Like putting them on was accepting this fate.

Accepting that there was something to hide.

He pulled the gloves on.

Phil bent down on one knee and looked him in the eyes, “Son. Do not let anyone, anyone, see your mark. Do you hear me?”

Wilbur nodded, “Yes father.”

Phil smiled and patted his hands, “Good. Now I’m getting back to work. Do everything how you normally would okay? Don’t act suspicious.”

Wilbur nodded, “Okay. What are you... what are you working on?”

Phil’s smile wavered, “Don’t worry about it okay? Just be yourself. Your wonderful self.”

Wilbur felt tears prick his eyes, “Am I a bad person dad?”

Phil smiled and cupped his face, “No. No you’re- you’re not.”

Wilbur nodded sadly and Phil released him. Rushing into his room and slamming the door.

Wilbur walked to the front door.

Looks like he has some ingredients to gather.

————————————————————————————

Wilbur stepped into the village. Basket hanging off his arm and less pep in his step.

He tries to smile the same but just... can’t.

He sees the way people’s face morph to concern when he passes them.

Some even asked what what was wrong.

(If they knew what he was then they’d never ask)

He always answered with a faker smile and a “Just tired.”

They either believed him or didn’t push any further and he continued to purchase the things he needed.

That was until someone ran into the streets yelling, “THE HERO HAS BEEN DECIDED!”

Wilbur blinked and suddenly everyone was following them.

Wilbur got pushed through the crowd. Everyone cheering and clapping so much it made his ears ring.

He couldn’t hear anything other than cheers so he pushed to the front. Weaving through the people until he caught sight of who was in the middle.

No.

Why? Why him?

Dream stood in the middle, hand raised and a bright smile on his face.

An eta symbol with healthy leaves growing on it on his hand.

Wilbur felt his breathing pick up. Or was he breathing at all?

He doesn’t know.

All he knows is he isn’t getting any oxygen.

He pushes back through the crowd, running as fast as he can. Rushing back towards his home. Basket smacking his arm and body with each stride.

He slammed his front door open, “DAD!”

It took a moment but a very drained looking Phil walked in, “What is it? What’s wrong?”

“The-the hero- DREAM!”

Phil frowned, “Dream is the hero?”

Wilbur nodded frantically.

Phil sighed, “Okay. Okay. Just keep acting normal okay? You cannot let anybody know.”

“What if he finds out!” Wilbur sobbed.

Phil gripped his hands, slightly harsher than necessary but it seemed he was trying to ground himself too, “Make sure he doesn’t.”

Wilbur fell into Phil’s chest. Phil hugging him before pulling back.

Wilbur reached out for comfort, but Phil turned away, “I have to get back to work Wil.”

Wilbur nodded through his cries and Phil disappeared.

————————————————————————————

The next few weeks were torture. Though things slowly started to get back to normal.

His father hadn’t talked to him much. Opting to staying inside and looking through books Wilbur doesn’t even remember owning.

He doesn’t think he’s seen Phil sleep.

Dream still bullied him. When Dream first saw the gloves, he had immediately pointed out that he was hiding the villain mark.

He almost took it off but Wilbur quickly lied. Saying Phil told him to wear them after he accidentally exploded a tree. That the gloves helped keep his magic at bay.

Dream didn’t seem to fully believe him but enough that he didn’t take them off.

After that Dream didn’t bully him as much. Mostly because he was too busy with people wanting his autograph.

Every time Wilbur would roll his eyes.

Dream hasn’t even done anything yet.

But apparently he is like the youngest chosen one yet. So people are making a big deal.

The entire kingdom knows at this point! Their little village has never been more crowded.

Wilbur appreciates the relief but having so many people around makes him even more wary.

It was only a matter of time before something went wrong.

————————————————————————————

Wilbur stumbled to the ground. His fist clenching in anger and gathering dirt into his palms.

He heard snickering from above him and he knew who it was right away.

“Dream.” Wilbur said.

They were in the middle of public. Did he really want to risk exposing who their so called hero really is?

“Oops. My bad Wil.” Dream said as he extended his hand.

Wilbur rolled his eyes. He had half a mind to smack the hand away but people were looking. He had to respect the hero after all.

He grabbed Dream’s extended hand.

He really shouldn’t have.

Suddenly Dream’s symbol began to glow slightly. Wilbur’s symbol beginning to burn just as it did in his dream as he and Dream grit their teeth. Yanking their hands away and rubbing them.

Dream looked at Wilbur cradling his hand, “You.”

Wilbur threw his hand down.

Mistake mistake mistake-

Dream suddenly grabbed him. They seemed to be attracting some attention now.

Wilbur tried to pull away but Dream’s friends grabbed him. Keeping him pinned in their grip while Dream pulled his glove off.

“Don’t- you’ll get hurt-“ Wilbur tried to say but it was too late.

Gasps ran out through the crowd and a huge grin formed on Dream’s face.

“I knew it!!!” Dream shouted.

The crowd began to murmur.

Wilbur couldn’t breath again.

He writhed in their grip but it only tightened, “Dream I-“

“So if he’s the villain... why not just go ahead and get rid of him?” Someone in the crowd said.

Suddenly the murmurs picked up, loud agreements following.

“Yeah Dream! Just get rid of him before he hurts someone!”

“Kill the villain!”

“Kill!”

“Kill!”

“Kill!”

Wilbur was too panicked to even think how Dream got a sword before he was striding up to him.

The sword pressed against his neck.

He was also too panicked to see Dream’s unsure expression. How his eyes darted around to the crowd and back to the sword at Wilbur’s neck and then straight into Wilbur’s eyes.

How his eyes said nothing but ‘I don’t know what to do.’

The sword pressed further into his neck and blood trickled down.

It seemed to even surprise Dream because the pressure lessened immediately.

He was too scared to see just how terrified Dream looked as the crowd’s shouts got louder.

They were only 8 years old after all.

“KILL!”

Dream’s form shook as he started pushing the sword down on Wilbur’s neck, squeezing his eyes shut and looking away.

Wilbur’s fight or flight finally kicked in, his fingers glowing with a bright magic as suddenly a wave exploded off him. Pushing the crowd away and making a path for him as he bolted.

“STOP HIM!” The crowd yelled.

Wilbur scrambled away, randomly throwing waves of magic back to push the mob away. He heard his own heartbeat thundering with the rhythm of the footsteps behind him.

Fast and heavy.

No noticeable breaks.

Just-

THUMPTHUMPTHUMPTHUMP

He’s going to die.

He’s 8 years old and he’s going to die.

He’s never going to become a powerful duo with his father. He’ll never be able to prove Dream wrong.

He’s going to die and stories will be told of the evil witch child who Dream saves the world from.

A tragedy prevented.

Wilbur felt tears stinging his face. His legs burning and muscles aching as he pushed harder than he ever had before.

He thinks somewhere deep in his mind, maybe he should be thankful for Dream’s little manhunt games.

He learned to run for his life.

Wilbur threw back another blast of magic. His heart hurting just a tad at the pained yelps it caused.

He’s only proving them right isn’t he?

A villain who can’t accept their doomed fate. A villain who tried to mess with the strings tying them and only hurting people in the process.

But maybe he’s just selfish because he keeps running.

Like a good, selfish villain.

Wilbur threw back another large wave of magic as he reached his door. Throwing the crowd back enough for him to get inside and slam the door behind him.

“DAD!” Wilbur shouted.

Phil opened the door to his study, bags on bags under his eyes, “What is it?”

Wilbur waved his ungloved hand around, “THEY KNOW!”

Phil’s eyes widened and he glanced outside to see the mob regrouping.

Wilbur crashed into him, desperate to get into his father’s protective hold.

His father didn’t hug him back, instead pushing him off and waving his arms around in the air.

Wilbur’s staff appeared in his hand and he gave it to Wilbur.

Wilbur held onto it for dear life, clutching it close to his person.

“Wil, you...” Phil huffed and grabbed his shoulder.

Wilbur followed the harsh grip as Phil pulled them outside to their backyard. A large fence and magical dome in the way of people entering. Phil then turned around with a flourish.

“Run.”

Wilbur’s eyes widened, “What?”

“Just. Wilbur. I told you to run.”

“What about you?!”

Phil turned around, still refusing to look him in the eyes.

He hasn’t looked him in the eyes since he’s arrived.

Phil waved his arm around. The other holding a black crow feather close to his chest as he muttered something Wilbur couldn’t understand.

Suddenly black wings unrolled from his back.

Phil looked to the ground, his hair falling in front of his face and blocking it from Wilbur’s view.

So he didn’t notice the clear tears running down his cheeks.

Suddenly the wings expanded. Knocking Wilbur to the ground.

“Stay yourself, Wil.” Was all his father said before suddenly he was lifting off the ground and flying into the sky.

Wilbur reached into the sky, “DAD! DAD DON’T LEAVE ME! THEY’RE GOING TO KILL ME!”

Phil’s form only got smaller and smaller as he disappeared into the blue.

“DAAAAAAAD!!!!!!”

Tears rolled down his face.

He wanted to curl into a ball and sob but the sound of shattering filled his senses.

He whipped around to see the dome his father used to protect from attackers shattered.

A mob rushing over the fences.

Wilbur scrambled up, holding his staff in the air as the gem on top glowed.

Suddenly roots sprouted below his feet and lifted him over the fencing as he rushed into the forest.

He whispered words he learned from his father long ago and vines broke the ground. Creating a wall between the edge of the forest and the mob just outside of it.

He heard shouting as people tried to get past his defenses.

The sounds faded and eventually stopped but Wilbur didn’t.

His feet pounding against the forest floor, dancing over tree roots and brambles.

He didn’t stop until the sun set, clouds filling the sky as he collapsed from exhaustion.

On his knees in the middle of a clearing, he screamed into the air.

He screamed to Dream, he screamed to the village, he screamed to his father, and he screamed to fate herself.

Only the forest listened.

————————————————————————————

Wilbur slowly blinked his eyes open.

Squinting at the sunlight drifting through the window.

Oh right. He’s free from his father’s little curse now.

He felt the sunshine on his face. Blankets gently draped over him. The bed to his back and a small lump in his arms.

Hold on.

Something was off here.

He squinted at the lump. Blonde hair poked out of the blanket. He shifted his arms slightly and pulled the blanket back a little.

Oh it was Tommy.

Wait, when did that happen?

Wilbur blinked a few times. Confused on how exactly he shifted to his side, wrapped both arms around Tommy, and then tucked him in while he was asleep.

Tommy was also tucked into his chest. His soft breaths floating into the air.

He was... warm.

Wilbur hasn’t woken up warm since...

Since before all this happened.

He glanced at his fingerless-gloved hand. Gently peeling the glove off to see the pi symbol still looking at him. Taunting him.

He sighed and let his head hit the pillow again. Draping his arm back over Tommy’s form and pushing him back to his chest.

So warm.

Like the sunlight falling on his face except better. Like it was from the inside and not out.

He breathed.

It felt easier than it has in a long time. Like there wasn’t just some weight on his chest at all times. Like he was free.

He wasn’t, he reminded himself.

He’s a villain. Holding something so pure and innocent to his chest.

A darkness that was meant to be purged.

Well... it seemed fate hadn’t wanted him to fail. It seems she wanted a new story. One where the villain won.

His father should have never intervened. So now Wilbur needs to get back to what he was doing.

Tommy suddenly shifted and looked up, eyes blinking open.

Wilbur has never cooed before. Never once.

But there’s a first time for everything.

Tommy gave him a dopey smile.

“You’re still here...” Tommy said with his eyes half closed as he buried his face back into Wilbur’s chest.

Wilbur moves a hand to Tommy’s hair, he isn’t sure why he did that, “Yeah Toms. I’m still here.”

Tommy suddenly shot up. Wilbur resisting his urge to pull Tommy back.

“What’s wrong?”

“I have school!”

“School?”

Tommy rushed into his closet, pulling out clothes, “Yeah! I’m going to be late!”

Wilbur nodded as Tommy rushed out of the room to another room, closing the door behind him.

Wilbur grabbed his staff and pulled on his coat before following and waiting outside the closed door until Tommy came out wearing his chosen outfit.

Tommy rushed out and down the steps, Wilbur stepping after him and through the front door.

“Are you coming with me?” Tommy asked as he slowed his pace to a brisk walk.

“No. I was going to... to go do some things. What time will you be done?”

Tommy didn’t pick up on his pause, “Uh... like 3?”

“Okay. I’ll see you then.” Wilbur waved.

His heart hurt the way Tommy didn’t question what he was doing.

He decided to push that problem down.

Like a mature adult.

He finished escorting Tommy to “school.”

Making sure to be sneaky when he waved his hand and staff. Whispering a few words under his breath.

Tommy didn’t notice the thin veil of magic coating him.

Just a simple tracking spell. Something to alert him if Tommy is in danger.

He doesn’t know what school is but it sounds suspicious.

He watches as Tommy runs off into the strange looking building and turns around.

Walking away to do what he needs to do.

Chapter Text

Wilbur walks into the forest, looking for ingredients he may need. His magic has grown exponentially stronger since he was a little kid. But ingredients can still be useful for certain spells.

Not to mention his crystal system is probably destroyed after all these years.

He’s going to have to set that up again isn’t he?

Ugh. That took so long!

He’ll have to get some minions and then order them around the world... that’s so much work.

He could probably make some totems and charms for Tommy...

What is he going to do with Tommy?

Wilbur chooses to once again ignore that problem. His head gets fuzzy when he thinks about it and he doesn’t like that much. So he’ll just continue to gather things he needs until it’s time to pick the boy up.

————————————————————————————

It’s about noon when Wilbur feels his senses buzzing.

That can only mean one thing.

Tommy.

Wilbur waved his hands around in the air, luckily he isn’t too far away from him. He slams his staff into the ground and mist surrounds him before he poofs inside a fenced area.

Directly beside Tommy.

Tommy is shouting at some other kid-

Wait.

Dream?!?!

Wilbur squints. Blonde hair, green eyes, freckles face. He looks exactly like him!

“Just leave me alone Clay!” Tommy shouted at the boy.

“Aww but Tommy! I want to play hero and villain again!” He smirked with too many teeth.

Oh well that’s not happening.

Wilbur puts his hand on Tommy’s shoulder and Tommy jumped. Well so does everyone, not having seen him due to his spell.

Dream- Clay’s eyes are wide and so are his little friends’.

Tommy beams up at him, “Wilbur!”

Wilbur smiled menacingly as he bends down to eye level, still having a grip on Tommy’s shoulder, “Well. What seems to be the issue here?”

Clay was absolutely quaking and maybe Wilbur was finding just a little too much joy in terrifying a Dream lookalike, seriously this kid has to be a descendent or something.

But... Wilbur isn’t the bigger person anymore.

“I-I-I uh- you- r-real-l?” Clay stuttered.

‘Not so high and mighty now are you Dream?’ Wilbur smiled.

Wilbur then turned to face Tommy, his expression softening. Did Tommy really have a Dream lookalike bully too?

“What happened?” Wilbur brushes his finger softly over a bruise forming over Tommy’s cheek.

“He hit me!” Tommy shouted, “He wants to play hero and villain so he can do it more!”

Wilbur hated how similar they were. How similar their situation is. The thought of Tommy turning into... into him...

That little light needs to be kept safe.

And if he has to do the dirty work to keep it pure, then so be it.

Wilbur turned to the kids, a dark look in his eyes, “You wish to play hero and villain?”

The kids shook their heads.

Wilbur grinned, “Well you don’t get a choice. I’d start running.”

The three kids bolted. Wilbur raising his staff and swirling it around. Lighting began to form around it. Crackling and snapping as he felt power course through his veins.

He pushed his staff forward, the lightening shooting out and snapping at the kids’ feet.

Them yelping and screaming in fear.

Purple and black began to ooze from his staff and Wilbur’s eyes started to gain it too, his grin growing feral.

Dark magic was a dangerous thing. An evil thing. The thing he was always meant to give into.

He doesn’t need it.

It hurts.

It erases who he is and replaces it with an oozing black and disgusting version of himself.

Wilbur hates it.

But it was never his choice.

The lightening grew black. It starting to do more than just miss their feet.

It got closer and closer, ready to evaporate them into dust.

Suddenly a weight slowly pulled his staff down. Making his hands wrap around something. Arms wrapped around his legs. A trembling form took refuge in his arms. In a dark, black abyss of a person. A light too bright for the darkness to stay.

“Wilby... please stop. You did enough.” The light muttered.

Wilbur felt something burn away at him. Away at the darkness as the black swirled back into his staff. Receding back into the safety of his skin.

Wilbur blinked and suddenly the world was calm.

Tommy was hugging him tightly, Wilbur’s arms around him gently.

“Why did you... stop me?” Wilbur asked.

Tommy looked up at him with big, blue, glistening eyes as he suddenly reached up and made grabby hands.

Wilbur bent down to his hands with a confused look on his face.

Thumbs brushed against his cheek, smearing something wet against it.

“You were crying.” Tommy said.

Wilbur’s hands shot up and grabbed Tommy’s wrist (they were too thin) as he leaned into Tommy’s hands. Shutting his eyes and feeling Tommy’s tiny fingers against his face. Shaky breaths leaving him.

“I’m sorry I scared you Toms.”

“I was just worried about you. I’m not scared of you.”

Wilbur’s breath caught in his throat and his grip tightened on Tommy, not painfully so, “You’re not... scared of me? Not even like that?”

“Well it was... it was scary but it wasn’t you I was afraid of. I was scared you... you lost yourself.”

Wilbur suddenly pulled Tommy into a hug.

How could he be so bright? So blindingly brilliant?

He doesn’t understand that... Wilbur is darkness.

He is an evil man. A terrible person. Tommy seems to think he’s not.

But he is. He is.

And it’s all he ever will be.

(But not to Tommy)

Wilbur felt tears prick his eyes again. He can’t... think. It’s too fuzzy. It’s too much.

“Do you want to stay with me for the rest of my classes?” Tommy asked.

Wilbur nodded, “Yeah. Yeah I’ll stay with you.”

Wilbur released from the hug and Tommy took his hand, leading him inside the building.

Wilbur made sure to put his spell back over him so nobody could see him.

————————————————————————————

Turns out school is where you learn things. Kind of how Phil taught him except an actual hired person.

It was fine really, good for children to get education. He even learned some things in Tommy’s science class.

And then a loud bell rang and Tommy said that was it for the day. Tommy took his hand and guided him out of the school.

“Do you want to go see the town?” Tommy asks, “It’s only like a... 30 minute walk from here. It’s a small town but it’s nice.”

Wilbur shrugged, “I don’t care.”

Tommy nodded and began their walk to the town.

————————————————————————————

It took almost exactly 30 minutes to reach it and Wilbur looked around. Amazed by the cars and buildings. It was the same but different from the world he knew. In a good way.

“I don’t have any money but if I did then I would go shopping. But me and you can just look around! That’s what I always do.”

Wilbur nodded and let Tommy drag him around the town. They stopped at a clothing store for children and Tommy tried on a few shirts he liked, despite knowing he wasn’t going to buy them. He put them back on the shelf and Wilbur frowned.

“We should just get it Toms. Let me.” Wilbur said.

“Do you have money?” Tommy asked with a brow raised.

Wilbur nodded as he smiled to himself.

He does have money. Doesn’t mean he’s going to use it.

He took the clothes and told Tommy to meet him outside as he went to the worker.

He waved his staff and whispered something.

The poor worker went into a daze and handed Wilbur a few bags to pack the clothes in. Wilbur stuffed them inside, bowing his head in a thank you before leaving. The worker blinking out of his daze before shaking himself off.

————————————————————————————

“Wilbur Wilbur Wilbur-“ Tommy said as he pulled on the elder’s arm.

Wilbur smiled warmly at the boy’s excitement, “Yes Toms?”

“We should try some ice cream! I think you’ll like it!”

Wilbur nodded, “Sure. I’d be willing to try.”

Tommy brought them up to a small building and pushed the door open. A bell chimed above them and the worker turned up in a greeting. He had a strange shade of green hair.

“Hey Tommy- Who’s this?” The man asked with furrowed brows.

“Oh I’m...” He hadn’t really expected people to know Tommy, seems that was a mistake.

“He’s my brother!” Tommy said, “He was out at college but came back to visit me!”

The worker blinked but couldn’t take what the boy said as a lie, he was too excited, “Oh ok, Tommy. Didn’t know you had a brother.”

Tommy smiled proudly, “Mmhmm! He’s the best!”

Wilbur was just staring the entire time. His mind was just running the word ‘brother’ over and over again in his mind.

Tommy called him his brother.

Wilbur knows it was just an act... Tommy doesn’t mean it...

(Why does that hurt?)

Wilbur shakes himself off before he starts crying, smiling as Tommy drags him to look at different ice cream flavors.

Tommy says Cotton Candy is the best, though he thinks Wilbur would be a more Cookies and Cream kind of guy.

Wilbur ends up getting both and Tommy gets Cotton Candy.

“Go get a seat while I pay Toms.” Wilbur said with a smile.

“Oh no. That’s not necessary.” The man says as Wilbur looks at him in surprise, “Tommy is a good kid. It’s on the house.”

“He gets me ice cream for free every now and then!” Tommy said brightly.

Wilbur blinks then smiles. This man is kind to Tommy.

He’ll have to make sure he is given a good position in the new world order.

Wilbur takes the ice cream and hands Tommy his.

“Thank you sir.” Wilbur said.

“Call me Sam. Come back again soon!” Sam called as they exited the building.

Tommy dug into his ice cream. Wilbur glancing unsure at his. He stuck his tongue out and scooped a little up.

His eyes widened as he started scooping more up.

“Careful! You’ll get a brain freeze!” Tommy shouted but it was too late.

Wilbur grabbed his head in pain, “What is this!?!”

Tommy chuckled, “If you eat it too fast then you’ll get that!”

Wilbur shook himself off, beginning to eat slower, “Why would they make it that way?”

Tommy shook his head, “It’s just because ice cream is so cold!”

Wilbur made a small ‘o’ with his mouth before continuing to eat. He didn’t even jump when Tommy’s smaller hand slipped into his. Just giving it a reassuring squeeze.

He doesn’t know why it feels so right and normal.

(He’s terrified of it)

Wilbur chuckled to himself as Tommy skips next to him. His arm getting swung over exaggeratedly. Tommy starts rambling on about cows or something as they walk through the town.

They ended up stopping right in front of a store with strange glowing boxes. They displayed some kind of image and Wilbur squinted at it while Tommy pressed his face up to the glass.

“Oh hey! They’re playing Up!”

Wilbur blinked a few times, feeling a strange energy radiating from the device, “What?”

“Up! Oh wait you don’t know what any of this is. Well that’s a TV! It plays like... shows. Up is the name of one of the shows.”

Wilbur leaned in closer. There’s was something so strange about it.

“How does it work?”

“Well I don’t know exactly but it runs off electricity. It powers the screen and like... lights up in different colors to display the movie!”

“But... How is it so small? Are there tiny people in it?”

Tommy barked a laugh and Wilbur couldn’t help but smile slightly, “No! It’s like these... there’s this technology called a camera. It is kind of making paintings but super fast and then these paintings are all put together to make a video! Then the video is sent through a signal I guess? And goes to the TV! My parents have satellite TV so our signals come from outer space!”

Wilbur stood up with shock, “What?!? What’s a satellite!?”

“A satellite is this big machine that people make and send up into the sky. Or into the atmosphere. They circle around the planet and send and receive signals. That’s how our TV gets it!”

Wilbur blinked a few times, “This sounds so complicated. How do you know all this?”

Tommy flushed red, “Oh well... I go to the school library often and read books on technology and stuff. It’s always been an interest of mine. I’m no where near the level to make any of this stuff but it’s interesting to me to see how it works.”

Wilbur smiled at the boy’s embarrassment.

Tommy really was a wonder wasn’t he?

He ruffled Tommy’s hair, ceasing his ramble, “That’s really cool Toms.”

Realization struck him.

Electricity. It’s a form of energy. That’s what he’s feeling in the TV. And the signals coming off of it.

Magic is an interesting thing. It’s manipulation of different forms of energy.

It’s how he can make lightening. It’s how he can control people’s minds. It’s how he can make plants grow.

It’s how everything in this world runs.

And Tommy just said that there’s these big things in outer space, surrounding the world with signals.

What if he could twist that into magic signals?

Wilbur grinned to himself. Instead of using crystals like he did before, he could use these satellites.

He’ll need some time to experiment with these modern devices. He’ll have to research how they work and maybe even ask Tommy sometimes.

Oh this is wonderful. It’s perfect.

Fate really did have this all planned out.

————————————————————————————

Wilbur let his staff hit the ground like a cane with each step.

Did he need to do that? No.

Did it make him feel cool? Absolutely.

Tommy seemed entranced by it too. His eyes growing heavy from the soft beat it made as they walked back towards Tommy’s home.

They had spent practically all day out. The sun was beginning to set and he could see the tiredness radiating off the boy.

Tommy decided to shake off the tiredness with curiosity, “Why do you have that crystal on your staff? It glows and stuff in your book but I didn’t know why. Is that where your magic comes from? Because I’ve tried picking up crystals before but maybe mine just weren’t-“

“Toms.”

Tommy stopped to see Wilbur’s amused expression.

“The crystal isn’t magical necessarily. It’s more of a... conduit for my magic. It helps me channel it and focus it. Thus making my spells more powerful and more precise.” Wilbur explained.

Tommy looked at him with awe, “So your magic comes from what?”

“Me. It’s something you’re born with.”

Tommy held his hand out and focused, making an adorable concentrated face.

Wilbur chuckled, “Sorry to inform you Toms, don’t think you have any magic.”

Tommy pouted, “But I want magic like you!”

Wilbur ruffled his hair, “Oh I’m sure. Magic comes at the cost of a lot of training Toms. It’s a lot of boring work and even in my day was a dying art.”

“Is that why I don’t see anymore witches?” Tommy asked.

Wilbur shrugged, “It’s possible witches these days stay hidden. What you’ve been doing with your electricity powered devices seems to have rid the need of a lot of spells. Most witches aren’t that powerful anyway. Using spells to create protective totems and floating things to themselves was what most did. It’s very possible those with magic died off. Or maybe there’s a secret society of them and they are waiting for a moment to strike.” Wilbur said playfully.

Tommy seemed to take it a little too seriously and huddled closer to him.

Wilbur rested his hand on the boy’s shoulder, “Don’t worry. I won’t let anybody hurt you.”

Tommy smiled, “Promise?”

“Promise.”

“Can you fly on your staff like witches on a broom? Did witches actually ride brooms? Because why a broom? Why not a cool staff like you have or something even cooler? If I was a witch then I’d-“

“Yes Tommy. I can fly on my staff.”

Tommy paused, looking at him with wide and amazed eyes, “YOU CAN?!?”

Wilbur grinned and bent down, “Would you like to go flying with me?”

————————————————————————————

Wilbur waved his hand slightly, his staff floating in the air.

He grabbed Tommy under the arms and lifted him up. Tommy yelping at the sudden action as he was placed on the staff. The staff wobbled slightly but didn’t fall.

Tommy sat straddled on it and gripped it tightly. The crystal to the back and the bottom of the staff to the front.

Wilbur hopped on after him. He secured his arms around Tommy, grabbing the staff just in front of Tommy’s hands.

“You’re not gonna let me-e fall will you?” Tommy asked as Wilbur leaned forward, pushing them both down closer to the staff.

“Of course not. I won’t let you fall Toms.”

Tommy smiled shakily and looked back in front of him. He could feel Wilbur’s hair tickle his ear as his arms tightened slightly.

“Ready?”

“Mmhmm.” Tommy hummed and suddenly they went flying into the air. Him screaming in fear.

Wilbur laughed into his ear and suddenly his screams of fear turned into delight. Barking laughter erupting from him as they rushed through the sky. Wilbur flying them higher and higher.

Suddenly Wilbur pushed forward, them leaning down and starting to rocket to the ground.

Tommy gripped tighter as he felt himself rise from the staff. Wilbur’s arms kept him secure.

Wilbur pulled up just before they hit the ground and Tommy fell back into his chest.

Laughing as they skimmed over a small lake.

“Go ahead and touch it!” Wilbur shouted over the wind whipping past them, the smile evident in his voice.

Tommy slowly released one of his hands, shakily lowering it to the water as it began to spray behind them.

Tommy laughed in awe.

He looked back to see the water fall back down, and saw the trail of purple particles the staff was leaving. Like little fairies dancing in their wake.

Wilbur suddenly pulled up again, spinning around in the air as Tommy giggled.

Wilbur found he didn’t want to ever stop hearing that beautiful sound.

They brushed past trees. Dodging the branches as Tommy laughed. Screaming when he thought they were too close only for Wilbur to dodge just in time.

Wilbur pulled up once more so they were going straight up.

As they reached the clouds, Tommy put his hand out. Hand phasing right through the fluffy white.

Wilbur directed that staff forward, Tommy just feeling the cool breeze as it swept through his hair.

“I have somewhere you might want to see Toms.” Wilbur said, “I think you’ll like it.”

“What is it?”

“My home.”

Tommy’s gaze shifted to look at Wilbur and he could see the tiredness weighing down on him, “Tha’s so co’l!” Tommy slurred.

Wilbur chuckled and slowed down a little, “We can make this a bit more comfortable.”

One arm left Tommy’s side and suddenly wrapped around him, keeping him from falling off.

“Okay just swing your leg over.” Wilbur said and Tommy did as he was told. Letting his legs dangle off the side of the staff.

Wilbur quickly did the same, one hand holding the staff on his left and the other around Tommy’s back and holding the front. Tommy scooted closer and tucked himself under Wilbur’s arm. Wilbur allowing it with a smile.

Tommy gently laid his head on Wilbur’s chest, mouth opening wide in a yawn. The calming sound of the wind lapping at his ears lulling him into a sleepy state.

“You can sleep, sweetheart.” Wilbur murmured.

(It terrified him how the pet name sounded so right on his tongue)

Tommy nodded slightly before drifting off into unconsciousness.

Wilbur ran a quick hand through his hair. The boy had a long day, no wonder he was so tired.

Wilbur let his magic pick up the pace, him zooming through the air and over the forest.

He was a bit away from Tommy’s home. But it’s surprisingly not that long of a journey. This forest seems to be the one his home is hidden in.

Strange coincidence...

It took about 20 minutes to arrive at their destination.

To others, it would seem to be only a thick part of the forest. But with a quick wave of Wilbur’s hand, a veil was removed.

A tall castle sat in its wake. The moonlight shining off the dark brick. Clear of vines and other pests due to the magic Wilbur left here.

Wilbur slowly got off his staff, grabbing Tommy under his arms and hoisting him up.

He wrapped an arm underneath the bend of Tommy’s knees while the other wrapped around his back. Cradling him close to his chest as Tommy’s head lulled on his shoulder.

Wilbur could feel Tommy’s soft, sleepy breaths puffing against his neck.

He grabbed his staff and waved it, the doors opening on their own as he strides inside. He follows a well known path down a few halls, up a few steps, until he reaches a floor with several doors on each side and one directly ahead. No more turns, just a straight hallway.

He walks down it, careful with the sleeping bundle as he opens the door.

He flicked his hand and old candles come alive. Lighting the room in a warm glow.

His giant bed sits made and plush in front of him. Now all Wilbur can see was how lonely it was.

Wilbur padded over to it, pulling the blankets back and shuffling inside. Tucking blankets around Tommy’s back as Tommy just pressed closer to him.

Wilbur laid on his back, staring up at the ceiling as Tommy laid his head on his chest. Tiny fists bundled in his shirt.

Wilbur lets one hand lie on Tommy’s back while he rests the other behind his head.

He has to do this. He has to think.

He has to decide.

Tommy will never be hurt by his hands. That’s already been decided. But what to do with him?

Tommy is... he’s so bright. So blindingly innocent.

And Wilbur is very much not. He’s a dark and hideous creature.

And he’s so selfish.

He’s selfish because he wants Tommy.

He wants his beaming smiles. He wants his roaring laughter. He wants to hold him in his arms. He wants the way Tommy’s tiny hand fits into his. He wants Tommy to lean into him when he’s afraid. He wants Tommy to trust him to keep him safe. He wants to see Tommy when he wakes up and before he closes his eyes. He wants the way Tommy looks at him like he’s hung the moon and stars.

He WANTS that.

And that’s SO selfish of him.

A part of his mind whispers. The part he’s listened to for so long.

‘Aren’t villains supposed to be selfish?’

Wilbur lets his train of thought follow it for a moment.

Villains are selfish.

They take what they want.

And Wilbur wants Tommy.

So shouldn’t he, the big bad villain, just take him?

Shouldn’t he just hold him and if Tommy doesn’t agree with his plans to take over the world... shouldn’t he just keep him locked up in the castle anyway?

Shouldn’t he just take what he wants?

Manipulate Tommy’s mind so he’ll never leave him?

Like a good, evil villain.

Wilbur feels like throwing up.

His stomach twists and he’s never felt so disgusting in his life.

Just the... the THOUGHT of forcing Tommy to stay with him-

He feels sick.

He wants Tommy to care about him. But what good is that if he just makes him?

What good would seeing Tommy cry and beg him to let him out do?

He’s supposed to be the selfish evil villain.

But he just can’t.

Not like that.

Not to Tommy.

Tommy deserves better than to be tainted by his darkness.

Tommy deserves the world.

He sees that only from two days of knowing him.

And Wilbur is going to give him the world. He’ll just...

He’ll compromise with his evilness.

Tommy just doesn’t have to know.

He doesn’t have to go up to Tommy and say, “Oh hey, Tommy. I’m going to enslave every person on this planet and force them to do my bidding. Except you of course. You cool with that?”

He just has a feeling that won’t go over well with his sunshine.

So he’ll just... not say anything. He’ll do what he needs to do. Take over the world and have Tommy by his side.

Tommy will never have to know.

And surely Tommy knows he’s the villain. He read the book so there’s no way Tommy just doesn’t know his plan.

Surely.

He knows he’s grasping at straws here but he’s going to keep doing it.

What if... what if Tommy doesn’t know he’s a villain?

Wilbur’s heart hurts.

Oh the poor thing doesn’t know he’s evil.

It’s the only way that makes sense. He doesn’t know how truly evil he is. How he’s hurt people. How he’s selfish. How there’s a mark on his skin that screams pure evil.

That screams he doesn’t have a choice.

Wilbur takes a deep breath.

Good. A decision has been made.

Tommy doesn’t have to know. Tommy can stay right by his side and never have to know he’s being surrounded and protected by darkness.

Wilbur turns over, letting the arm behind his head swing over Tommy and wrap around him.

Pulling him impossibly closer as his face is shoved into his chest.

Tommy stirs slightly, just grumbling a little before snuggling somehow closer.

Wilbur pulls his arms tight, placing his hand on the back of Tommy’s head. Letting his fingers scratch small circles into his scalp. Feeling the softness as it slips between his fingers.

He doesn’t think he’s ever done this before. He remembers Phil doing it but he’s never done it back.

Wilbur buried his nose in golden hair. Breathing a weightless breath in.

He hasn’t been tamed. He is simply allowing one person into his life.

He’s still the villain. He’s still a bad person.

But not to Tommy.

Never to Tommy.

“Toms.” Wilbur prompts.

Tommy doesn’t say anything.

“Tommy.” Wilbur says a bit louder.

Tommy doesn’t even blink his eyes open, just humming a sleepy acknowledgment.

“Would you like to stay here... with me?”

Tommy’s eyes open at that, sleep still having a hold on him but not enough to keep him down, “What?”

“I want you to stay here. With me. I want you out of those nasty peoples’ house. I’ll make sure you’re fed and cared for I promise-“

Tommy just slammed his head into Wilbur, Wilbur noting it probably hurt from the way Tommy’s forehead hit his collar bone.

“Y-yeah. Please-Please let me stay Wilby-“

Wilbur bent down and pressed a soft kiss to his hair, “Of course. Of course sunshine.”

“Wh-What about m-my parents?” Tommy hiccuped and tried to bury himself as far as possible into Wilbur’s chest.

Wilbur just pulled him in tighter, as if trying to absorb each other, “Don’t worry about them,” He growled, “I’ll take care of it.”

“You won’t- k-kill them, right?” Tommy asked.

Wilbur just pressed another kiss to his head, “You’re so bright. So wonderful. How could you care what happens to them after they hurt you so? No Toms. I won’t kill them.”

Tommy sighed in relief, his body relaxing into the warm hold. Tommy hasn’t felt warm in a long time.

“Go to sleep darling. I’ll be here when you wake up.” Wilbur murmured.

Tommy didn’t even try to resist as sleep pulled him under. Wilbur pressing one final kiss to his head before doing the same.

Both in a comfortable warmth.

Chapter Text

Wilbur drifted through the village. Hood up and head down.

He’s 16 now. And he’s surviving.

He keeps gloves on to hide his mark and face covered as much as possible. Trying to pass off as just a traveler. He never can stay in one place too long.

They might figure out who he is. What he is.

He passes wanted posters of him all the time. Tales are told of roots and vines coming out of the ground to tangle around one’s neck and squeeze.

Wilbur never did that.

But everyone seems to think he did. Or at least that he will.

He can’t entirely blame the people for being afraid of him.

He’s afraid of himself.

The villain mark has never been... wrong before.

It’s always placed on someone who was already a bad person.

So maybe Wilbur was always a bad kid.

No. No he’s going to fight this. He’s not going to hurt people. Even if he is a bad person, he’s going to fight it.

He’s going to be good.

He used to put an illusion spell over him to keep himself hidden, but sadly another witch just so happened to have a charm that could see right through his weak spell.

It exposed him in front of the entire village and after he escaped, news spread.

Charms were put up in all villages to ensure he could be seen.

Wilbur heads up to a stand. He reaches into his coin pouch, sighing at how disturbingly light it is and placing a few coins on the table, “Five loaves please.”

The woman at the stand nods and wraps up his order, sliding it across to him.

She tires to bend down to see under his hood but Wilbur turns away, “Say, I haven’t seen you around. New here?”

Wilbur smiled just slightly, trying to sound friendly, “Y-yeah. Just traveling through.”

“You sound awfully young.” She then eyed the guitar on his back, “You play?”

“Hm? Oh. Uh yeah. I play.” Wilbur said.

It’s how he made his money. Head down and playing as people passed him by, throwing a couple coins in when they were feeling generous.

“Then how about this... You play me a song and I’ll give you these coins back yeah?” She offered with a kind smile.

Too kind for the likes of him.

Wilbur nodded, “That would be wonderful ma’am.”

She pulled out a chair from behind the stand and set it down, Wilbur sitting on it and throwing his guitar over his shoulder.

“Is there anything you particularly want to hear?” He asked.

She just shrugged, “Whatever you feel like playing.”

Wilbur nodded and started strumming.

It didn’t have any lyrics, this song.

It was sad. A story painted with just the waving of strings. A story of heartache and loneliness.

It sounded distorted. Like it wasn’t meant to be this way. Like someone took what could have been a happy tale and grabbed it’s vocal cords.

Straining it until the original was almost... unrecognizable.

The song ended and Wilbur thumbed away the water that dripped onto the body of the guitar.

“Young man...” The woman seemed so sad.

She wouldn’t be, if she knew.

Wilbur coughed and chuckled humorlessly, “Sorry about that. Thank you. For the bread.”

He grabbed the coins from her hand and turned and left.

————————————————————————————

He left that village and headed north. He was going to be forever alone.

Or so he thought.

This is when his life took a turn.

For the moment... the turn was for the better.

But like all pretty paths that promised sunshine and rainbows.

The path would turn twisted and dark.

————————————————————————————

Wilbur was a bit away from the village. Probably about a two hour ride away by horse, when he spotted a farm.

It wasn’t that large, probably qualify as a garden rather than a farm but it was absolutely beautiful.

Wilbur was completely in awe. He stepped towards it carefully. Just to see it.

To see the healthy leaves and fruit. Vegetables poking out of the ground and carefully trimmed hedges and trees.

It was magnificent.

As he approached he realized there was a small cabin attached to it. Vines growing up it beautifully. Trees creating the perfect amount of shade. Dark oak perfectly blending into the greens.

Wilbur stopped his careful approach when he heard yelling.

“I’m not leaving!” An older woman shouted.

“Mom come on! Daniel and I don’t want to live all the way out here! We want kids and they need to be around other children!” A younger woman shouted back, Wilbur assumed it was the elder’s daughter.

“Then fine! Go live with Daniel!”

“Mom, you can’t live out here by yourself!”

“I’ll just hire a help then!”

“Do you seriously feel more comfortable relying on someone outside of your family than moving in with Daniel and I?”

“This is my home! I know this place. I can navigate it just fine. Yeah, I need help, but I don’t need you on me 24/7! Just someone to help me cook and help with the garden. I can handle myself!”

“No you can’t Mom! Just admit it!”

Wilbur has been creeping closer this entire time.

Was that kind of rude? Probably.

But curiosity got the best of him.

He glanced through the window, wondering why the daughter was on her mom so much when he saw it.

The mom’s eyes were glazed over with a grey tint.

She was blind. She wasn’t even looking directly at the daughter.

“Get out of my house!” The mom shouted, “I’ll hire a help because you can’t handle living out here!”

The girl huffed loudly and stalked out the front door. Slamming it behind her.

The mom huffed and sat down, holding her head in her hands.

Wilbur wondered if this was the right moment to interrupt, but he was already walking to the front door and knocking.

He heard some shuffling and then the door opened, “Look Rose, I’m-”

“Sorry- My name is not Rose.” Wilbur started.

The woman’s eyes grew wide and she stepped back, raising her cane at him, “Who are you?!”

Wilbur raised his hands, putting them down when he realized she can’t even see them up, “I’m sorry! I just... I was leaving the village and I heard yelling so I came to check it out! I overheard your argument and heard you are in need of a help! And I wanted to offer myself as said help!”

The woman’s brows furrowed, “How old are you?”

“I am 16 ma’am. I’m very sorry for eavesdropping. I just am very low on funds and could use a job.”

The woman seemed to consider it, “Huh… This will show Rose. Anyways, yeah! You’re hired!” She laughed.

Wilbur blinked a few times, “I am?”

“Yeah! Come on in.” She moves back a little, using her cane to get around, “You can call me Fran.”

“Well nice to meet you Fran. My name is Wilb- You can call me Will.”

Fran laughed, “Alright Will. Here’s the deal. I won’t pay you all that much. 15 coins a day. But you’ll have free food, housing, and clothing. How does that sound?”

“Wonderful. Thank you so much.” Wilbur thanked.

Really. That was more than he could ask for.

“You’ll just do whatever I ask of you. I can take care of myself but you’ll probably cook and help me clean. You’ll also be in charge of that garden out there. Can you do that? I can’t see it but I do love to go outside and smell it.”

“Yes. I can garden.” Wilbur said, “Where can I start?”

The woman guided him over to a set of stairs and he followed her up. She fumbled with a door knob for a moment before opening the door. The motion swept up a cloud of dust and both Wilbur and Fran coughed as they waved their hands in front of their face.

“Uh sorry about that.” Fran laughed, “Rose didn’t want to clean this room since no one was living in it. But this can be where you stay, you’ll just have to clean it up!”

Wilbur smiled and stepped inside, “This is wonderful. Thank you.”

The room itself was a nice, cozy size. Not too big but not too small either. There was a drawer to the side and a wardrobe next to it. A bed that should just fit him in the corner and a desk next to it. A window sat right in the middle and filled the room nicely.

Wilbur carefully pulled his guitar and staff off his back and set them down in the corner with a clang.

Fran seemed to pick up on the guitar’s strings wobbling, “Is that a guitar?”

“Uh yes ma’am.” Wilbur chuckled, “It’s how I’ve been making money, though as stated previously... I’m rather low on it.”

She smiled in his direction, “Well you’ll have to play for me some time. You go ahead and get settled in, clean this room up and then come down to help me with dinner. Oh and...” Her face got stern as she pointed her cane at him, directly at him, “You don’t try nothin’ because I will beat you so hard you’ll forget your own name. Just because I’m blind doesn’t mean I’m not capable.”

Wilbur chuckled nervously, “Of course. I wouldn’t dream of it.”

She smiled smugly and lowered her cane, strutting off back down the hall and steps.

Wilbur smiled to himself as he turned back to his room. It would take a bit of work but this could potentially be a home for him. At least for now.

He slowly peeled off his gloves. Stretching his fingers out as he stared at the symbol on the back of his hand.

He smiled to himself and put his gloves down on the bed.

Time to get cleaning.

————————————————————————————

It’s been a few years now. A wonderful few years.

Wilbur strummed the guitar, a happy tune echoing through the small cabin as Fran danced. Laughter filled the home, the woman happy to dance again.

It became a routine. Wilbur playing for her.

It took a few times but eventually Fran felt comfortable enough to dance. Spinning in circles as Wilbur’s music picked up.

The song stopped and the woman laughed, “Good job!” She cheered and Wilbur blushed.

“Ah. It’s nothing really.” Wilbur mumbled.

She walked up to him, hands struggling for a moment before finding his face and squishing it between her hands, “Sweetheart. Come on. Don’t put yourself down! You’ve improved a lot! I wish my son was more like you.” She patted his face and pulled back.

“Oh yeah?” He chuckled.

He’s heard her mention him occasionally, but it was always a quick mention and then she’d drop the subject.

“Yeah. He wanted to be a musician, like you.”

Wilbur smiled, “He did?”

“Mmhmm.” She hummed and walked around, huffing, “Wanted to so bad he up and left me! Slammed the door in my face and left my daughter to take care of me. He just turned 18. Wanted to be all independent. Said I didn’t support him and he called me an old hag. All I said was real musicians work for it! And he didn’t. Nothing like a sweet boy, such as yourself.”

Wilbur’s face heated up, “I’m really... not. I’m just doing what I’m paid to do.”

She snapped her head back to look at him, “Oh come now. You work hard in the garden and find a way to make such beautiful music. And you don’t leave me when I need you! He could learn a thing or two. Haven’t seen him since he left. I don’t even...” Her voice suddenly dropped from playfully angry to despair, “I don’t even know if he’s still alive.”

Wilbur set his guitar down, face morphing to sad as he approached. He made sure to put more power in his steps so he made more noise as he approached. Carefully, he put a hand on her shoulder.

She sighed and wrapped her arms around him, pulling him close.

Wilbur froze for a moment. Tears pricking at his eyes.

She’s never... hugged him before.

It’s been so long-

“Sometimes I can still hear his voice. Singing to me. He always did have the most scratchy voice.” She laughed and Wilbur chuckled wetly with her.

Wilbur swayed them back and forth. He was much taller than her. Her head about shoulder level as she leaned on him. Wilbur could feel a bit of water seep into his clothes as she looked aimlessly to the side.

“I just... wanted him to know that just because momma loves his singing and playing, doesn’t mean everyone else will. Especially when he started getting lazy. He wouldn’t practice and said he was just... the best. I told him there were better out there. He... ran into his room and slammed the door. That night I caught him leaving and he- he said he hated me.” She hiccuped.

Wilbur placed his chin on top of her head, closing his eyes as he heard her sniffles.

“He hasn’t come back since.” She laughed humorously.

Wilbur didn’t know what to say. Fran has always been... strong. She wasn’t the emotional type. She was fierce and didn’t let anything phase her.

He remembers one of his first days here. He started working in the garden and she pointed out everything he needed to do.

Most of his compliments were from when the plants grew to be fresh and healthy even during drought.

(He didn’t tell her he used magic)

They bonded. Over tea and the smell of flowers. Over not needing to talk about their past.

She didn’t question him when he said he didn’t have any parents. And he didn’t question her when she said she had a son that wasn’t around anymore. Or a husband that disappeared one day and never came back. Or how her daughter comes while Wilbur is in the garden and he can hear their shouting matches.

And she doesn’t question when she hears a broken guitar whispering into the night. Just comes and sits next to him.

They both come back to each other with smiles in their voices and an attitude like nothing happened.

And maybe that wasn’t the healthiest thing.

Maybe it was.

Wilbur didn’t know.

All he knew was he was so thankful for the constant. For the ability to just hear her voice yelling to get his lazy self down stairs and cook breakfast.

So this was a change.

“I’m sorry.” Wilbur whispered.

“You don’t have anything to be sorry about.” She said simply, almost sounding angry at his reply.

After another few moments of silence, she pushed off him and patted his shoulder a few times, “Thank you, dear. You’re a good man.”

Wilbur’s breath hitched, “I’m... thank you.”

She smiled at him, “You deserve it, sweetheart.” She patted his face and her brows furrowed as her thumbs brushed a few tears away.

She opened her mouth like she wanted to say something but closed it.

“If you want to talk... you can.” She admitted.

Wilbur took a shaky breath and stared down at his mark, “Not much to tell. Just... thank you. Really. For everything.”

She patted his back so hard it pushed him forward as she laughed, “Don’t say it like that! Makes it sound like a goodbye!”

He laughed along, “I really should go make dinner.”

“Well don’t wait for me! Go!” She pushes him.

Wilbur shook his head fondly and left to the kitchen, preparing their dinner.

And if he used a little magic to help him out...

Well then that’s his business.

————————————————————————————

Wilbur smiled as he set the crate down.

“Think that’s the last one.” He said as he patted the old thing, gloves on and hood up.

Fran smiled as she finished setting up the stand, “Great! You know what we need.”

She threw him a pouch of coins, only a little bit off from where he was but he still caught it.

Wilbur hummed his agreement, “Be back in about two hours. Don’t leave without me!”

She snorted, “No promises!”

He laughed and turned around, walking into the village. Fran sold a lot of the food they got from the garden, them not needing most of it. And with Wilbur’s green thumb (magic), they have a lot extra.

Wilbur left Fran to deal with the costumers, trusting her to be able to handle herself (that woman scares him sometimes).

He headed through the market, pushing past people.

He’s been able to stay hidden for the most part. Some people know him as Fran’s help but they don’t bother him.

A hand grabs his arm and he’s pulled into a dark alley.

Well. Most people.

Wilbur rolls his eyes as he’s pushed further and further down until he reaches a back entrance.

He’s shoved through the door and into a chair.

Wilbur huffs as a man sits down opposite of him, propping his elbows up on the table between them.

The man smiles, a gold tooth twinkling in the little light emanating from the candles. A scar running over one of his eyes.

“Hello. Wilbur.” The man says as his lackeys pull off his hood in a dramatic reveal.

Wilbur blinks at the man, bored expression on his face, “Quackity.”

“Wilbur! My man! I have a brilliant offer for you today.” Quackity says as he brings out several potions and ingredients, “Only the finest for you.”

Wilbur rolled his eyes, “I’m not interested in your dark magic, Quackity.”

Quackity has been trying to get him to buy ingredients for dark magic spells for a long time.

Quackity leaned back in his chair, smiling brightly, “Alright alright. I get you. Straight to the good stuff.”

Wilbur stood up only to be pushed back down.

He huffed, “Quackity. I already told you. I don’t want to mess with dark magic.”

Quackity rolled his eyes and threw his head back with a groan, “I just want to get on the good side of my soon-to-be supreme overlord! Come on man.”

Wilbur grit his teeth and his fists tightened, “I’m not going to be the villain.”

Quackity just smirked and sat up straight again, “Stop fooling yourself Wilbur. You can’t run forever.”

Wilbur squeezes his eyes shut and turned away slightly, “Just get this over with. I want to go.”

Quackity smirked and Wilbur didn’t have to open his eyes to hear it.

“Oh Wil. I think I have the perfect thing for you. Truly, it’s my best find. Couple of my people died obtaining this one.”

Wilbur couldn’t stop the way one eye peaked open. Quackity’s grin widening as he slammed a book down.

It absolute reeked of dark magic. Like evil itself was coursing through the spine, the very fiber of the pages.

Quackity places his hand on it and shoved it towards him.

The book opened automatically, pages flipping rapidly until it landed somewhere in the middle.

“Ah. What a wonderful spell for you! The book knows you perfectly, I’d say.” Quackity grinned.

Wilbur felt himself pulled towards it. Leaning over the book as his eyes trailed over the page.

The dark magic latched onto him. The words of the page seeping into his mind. The book had pictures. Creatures half human, half fish. He could hear them. Whispering in his mind the words necessary. Singing.

It was such a simple spell. It just required a lot of energy.

And Wilbur was quite powerful.

He could just-

Wilbur slammed the book shut, shoving it back towards Quackity.

“No.” And it felt like the air was sucked out of the room.

Wilbur stared at Quackity, the man’s jaw dropped slightly as he tried to speak.

Wilbur just continued to stare.

“Y-yeah. Man. Sorry. You’re- you’re free to go.”

Wilbur stood up, chair knocking to the ground behind him as he turned with a flourish. Shoving past the guards and out of the building.

He wasn’t going to become the villain.

He’ll just keep pretending.

————————————————————————————

“Will! You’re late!” Fran yelled.

Wilbur chuckled, “Sorry. Got distracted.”

She rolled her eyes, “Well hurry up then. I want to get home before dark.”

Wilbur hummed his acknowledgment and got in the front of their little cart. Her sitting with the left over crates as Wilbur whipped the horse’s reigns. The horse began to trot off, towards the setting sun.

————————————————————————————

The next few weeks went fine. They stocked up for the winter, Wilbur’s favorite time of year.

He loved the brisk chill. The way he could huddle up on his coat and just sit outside. Listening to the wind whistle past him.

He likes the cold.

Maybe because tucking himself into his coat makes him feel like he’s getting a hug.

And maybe... maybe he got a little too comfortable.

Feel asleep, out in the open.

Without his gloves.

Maybe he didn’t hear the footsteps crunching as they left the scene.

Maybe he should have never pretended he could be good.

Maybe this is where fate pulls on her favorite puppet’s strings.

————————————————————————————

Wilbur wiped the sweat off his forehead, smiling down at the plants.

He just finished picking what he could. He stood up, basket balanced on his hip and full of fresh fruits and vegetables. He started his walk towards the home when he heard hushed whispers. He walked to the window and glanced inside curiously.

It was Rose and Fran. Fran seemed upset but also... unsure. Rose was talking quietly but intensely.

“-mom he —“

“Ar- -ou sur-“

“Man —- village —- already summ- Dream-“

Wilbur’s eyes widened and he nearly dropped the basket.

Surely he heard that wrong? He had to find out.

Wilbur pushes the door open, the two ladies stopping their conversation and whipping their heads to look at him.

Rose pushed her mom behind her and stared at him with wide, scared eyes, “You- you leave my mom alone!”

Wilbur felt his heart beating faster as he dropped the basket, reaching a hand forward, “Let me explain-“

Fran stepped out from behind Rose, face turned up in something between anger, hurt, and pure fear, “You’re the villain?!?”

“I-“ Wilbur stuttered, trying to step closer, “I am but-“

“GET OUT!!!” Fran screeched as tears started to fall from her eyes.

Wilbur’s heart shattered as he stopped his approach.

Fran reaches for whatever she could, throwing it at him, small trinkets or books, pillows even, “GET OUT! YOU MONSTER! YOU LIAR! YOU USED ME!”

Wilbur felt tears stinging his eyes as he dodged the lazily thrown objects, “Please I didn’t- I didn’t use you! I promise I-“

“GET OUT!!!” She screeched again, landing a book against Wilbur’s chest as she sobbed.

Wilbur’s lip quivered as he ducked his head down. Rose just trying to shove her mom away from the monster.

“I’m sorry.” Wilbur whispered.

“LEAVE!”

Wilbur nodded and summoned his stuff, putting on his cloak and throwing his guitar over his shoulder. He grabbed his staff, sulking out the back door as things continued to get hurled at him.

————————————————————————————

He ended up teleporting near the village. Just out of sight.

He needs to get some food for the road, then he’ll be out of here and onto the next village.

He’ll stop trying to make friends. Trying to have family.

That’s what Fran was, Wilbur admits to himself.

Like the mother he never had. His real mom had died early on. Back when his father was young and weak in magic. Weaker than he is.

Phil couldn’t save her. Not from the disease that plagued her.

After that, his father devoted himself to magic and raising him. Urging him to grow his power while he was young, like Phil was too bored to do.

Phil regretted his laziness everyday.

Wilbur learned he needed to protect the people he cared about.

Wilbur walked through the streets. He really should have expected that more people in the village knew who he was.

But he was too in his own mind to think his decision through. He walked aimlessly through the village. Occasionally stopping to buy something and wrapping it up.

He didn’t notice the stares.

Not until it was too late.

————————————————————————————

He had finished his shopping. A bag full of food strapped to his side and a relativity full coin pouch.

Someone tapped his shoulder.

He turned around and a fist collided with his face.

Wilbur fell to the ground, grabbing his face as he tasted blood.

He looked up to glare at whomever thought they were funny enough to do that, only for his eyes to go wide at the sight of the village crowding around him.

“Witch!” They yelled.

Wilbur fumbled as he stood up. The crowd forming a circle around him, but it seemed like they were afraid to approach.

“Dream is on his way!”

“I saw him enter the village!”

“He’s going to destroy you!”

“Witch!”

Wilbur summoned his staff to his hand, ready to teleport himself out of there when there was a scream.

“MOM!” It sounded so desperate, so heartbroken, like someone took glass and shattered it.

He recognized that voice.

Rose.

The next moment was like slow motion. The crowd parted and someone carrying a body came forward.

The body was thrown in front of Wilbur.

Wilbur’s eyes wide in horror. Sound faded away.

Everything turning muffled. The screams from Rose. The chants of the crowd. Dream’s voice pulsing over everyone.

Wilbur fell to his knees.

There, wrapped up in blood red ropes...

Was Fran.

Her eyes staring distant and lifeless. A wound in her chest, the bleeding stopped.

She was already gone.

Wilbur’s hands hovered over her in disbelief. Slowly grabbing her and pulling her into his lap. His hands growing red with scarlet liquid as tears flowed down his face. Dripping onto her lifeless face as he pulled her body into a hug. Burying his nose in her hair as he sobbed.

“Why?” His watery voice asked, chanted as he repeated it.

“She was a servant to you! Hiding you all these years! We see through her lies!”

Rose fell to her knees in front of him, “IT’S ALL YOUR FAULT! YOU MONSTER!”

Wilbur hiccuped as he squeezed her tighter.

“I’m sorry. I’m so sorry. I’m so so sorry.” Wilbur repeated like a spell. Like it would somehow bring her back.

He sounded like a kid. A kid who broke something special and felt the most guilty someone can. Like the words weren’t enough but it’s all his mind could think.

There was nothing else in his mind.

Just regret.

Footsteps crunched and a gasp rang out.

“Did you... did you kill her?” A familiar voice asked.

Dream. Dream. Dream has come to kill him.

“She was a servant of the villain! She had to go!”

If he had looked up, he’d see the horrified look on Dream’s face.

But Wilbur didn’t. Didn’t listen as Dream shouted at them in confusion. Asking question on question about what had happened.

He stayed in his own mind.

Thinking

This was his fault.

He pretended.

He pretended for too long. That he could be good.

That he could deny fate and never hurt anyone.

But look where that got him?

He hurts people. Got someone he cared about killed.

Trying to not hurt people... only made them hurt worse.

Denying fate her precious story.

It only caused everyone pain.

So.

He’s going to stop pretending.

Who cares if he loses his mind?

He’s already cursed

Wilbur felt a chuckle bubble up inside him, letting it out a little at a time.

The crowd silenced as they watched the chuckle turn into a giggle and then to a full on cackle. Wilbur’s head looking up to the sky as his body bounces with the force. Tears streaming down his face.

Suddenly the laughter stopped and Wilbur let Fran’s body roll out of his lap, gaze snapping to the crowd with a crazed grin.

The crowd’s chants silenced as they cowered.

Wilbur’s eyes landed on Dream, Dream taking a step back as Wilbur’s face suddenly fell to a frown.

Something sparkling in his eyes. Swirling dangerously.

“You want me to be the villain?” Wilbur started as he stood up slowly, the crowd taking a shaky step back.

Wilbur’s head tilted forward, casting a shadow over his eyes. Purple mist beginning to pour out of his staff as he raised it up. Distant singing began to fill their ears as the mist spread across the ground.

“Then I’ll be the villain.”

Wilbur slammed his staff on the ground, screaming in pain as black tendrils struck each of the villagers. Dream pulled up a shield, a yellow barrier protecting him as the mist spread through the entire area. Filling up his vision.

The mist slowly dissipated, leaving Wilbur panting as he stared into the distance. Back facing Dream.

Dream’s eyes were wide with shock. The villagers all mindlessly standing around.

Wilbur’s body was shaking slightly, not enough for Dream to see, “Every hero needs an origin story.”

Dream shuddered as he took a step back, everyone’s gaze snapping to him.

Wilbur twisted his head back, a single, watery brown eye met his, “Run, before your’s catches up to you.”

Dream took a few slow steps back before turning away and sprinting off. Huffing and nearly tripping over himself in his panic.

Wilbur waited for his form to disappear before turning back around. He looked at the crystal glowing a soft purple in his staff.

He stared at his new subjects, his new slaves.

“We have work to do.”

————————————————————————————

Wilbur’s lips pulled up into a snarl, “Father.”

Wilbur watched as his father stayed in the air, wings flapping behind him occasionally.

Phil has the audacity to look sad.

“Wilbur... I’m so sorry.”

Wilbur rolled his eyes, “I’m in the middle of something here! Oh I bet I know how this story goes. You’re going to turn to Dream and gift him some great power that will be enough to defeat me. So I guess I really am going to lose.”

Wilbur’s features softened just slightly.

He wanted to be defeated, after all.

No he didn’t. He was a rotten to the core villain.

He wanted to hurt people.

“Do you know why I left?” Phil asked.

“No. Don’t care.” Wilbur said simply, “Let’s just get this over with.”

Phil sighed and pulled out a book. It was completely blank, no pages inside. Just the spine and cover.

“Pretty useless book you got there, Dad.” Wilbur said, sounding rather annoyed.

Phil waved his hand and it floated in front of him, his eyes began to glow as his hands did as well.

“I’m giving you another chance. I’m giving someone else a chance. To save you from this fate.”

“What? You’re trying to change my story?”

“I’m trying to save you.”

“I’ve already tried! Nothing works!”

“I’m sorry Wil. I’m so sorry.” Phil said as tears dripped down his face, surprising Wilbur.

“A darkness consumed that which was good
A light inside, slowly dying
To a world who called it night”

Phil began to chant, a language Wilbur only knows from years of study. Wilbur’s brows furrowed.

He’s never heard a spell like this.

“Sealing itself a fate of eternal darkness
By its own selfish greed
A light will become an ever consuming black
And the world will pay its dues”

Wilbur felt something latch onto him. His vision growing blurry as he looked at his arms. Slowly his body turned into thin sheets of paper.

Wilbur’s eyes widened as the paper began to peel off, flying towards Phil and spinning around him.

Wilbur screamed as his fingers unraveled, entire being pulled towards his father.

“What are you doing?!?” Wilbur growled as he tried to use his own magic. Nothing but sparks disappearing into the pages.

“A tale etched into stone
Unworn and kept safe through time
Until a new light is born
To blow away the darkness at its very core”

“STOP! WHAT IS THIS?!?” Wilbur tried to desperately pull away, face slowly fading away.

“To tame a beast so filled with sorrow
And change the very story of fate”

Wilbur yelled once more before the last of him turned to paper, flying around Phil as suddenly they all piled into the book.

Phil slammed it shut, a bright light emanating from it.

Phil panted as his body shook. His gaze snapped to a very confused looking Dream.

“Dream. Your mission is to destroy Wilbur’s crystal system.”

“Wait wait. What just happened?”

Phil grit his teeth as his body began to glow, “There isn’t time! Just do what I said!”

Dream nodded and shrunk back like a scolded child.

Phil took a deep breath focusing his magic on the book as his body turned to light. Starting to fade from existence.

He pressed the book to his face, pressing a soft kiss to the cover before whispering, “Save my son, Tommy.”

The world filled with light once more, Dream turning away and covering his eyes as it blinded him.

There was a loud BOOM and suddenly everything was quiet.

Dream turned back around to find Phil and the book, gone.

He blinked a few times, looking around the quiet wasteland.

“Hello?”

Nothing but his own echo was heard. Dream shuddered as a cold breeze blew past him.

Better... get started on what Phil ordered him to do.

Yeah. That sounds like a plan.

————————————————————————————

Wilbur blinked his eyes open. A warm, hazy blanket of sleep covering him.

He felt Tommy snuggled securely in his arms. His head and face buried in his neck. Blankets wrapped around him. Completely shielding him from the world. Only his blonde hair poking out from the blankets.

Wilbur smiled to himself. Fondness ever growing in his dark heart.

He won’t pretend. Not again.

He’s going to do what he’s always meant to do.

And he’s going to bring Tommy with him.

Wilbur moves slightly so he could kiss the top of Tommy’s head. Right where a crown would lay.

Wilbur’s smile only grew.

Tommy will look wonderful in a crown.

Tommy stirs slightly and Wilbur just pulls him closer. He’s not ready to deal with being evil.

He just wants to stay here. With his sunshine and blanketed in warmth.

So entirely selfish of him to do.

Tommy’s eyes blink open and met his, a dopy grin crawling up his face, “Hi Wilby...”

Wilbur chuckled softly, “Hey sweetheart.”

But Wilbur must get up. Must continue his plan.

He can’t pretend anymore.

(Not like last time)

And there’s some things he’s been meaning to ask Tommy.

He needs to find out just how much Tommy knows. And he needs to ask it in a way that doesn’t reveal what the mark is in case he doesn’t know.

He can’t possibly know. There would be no way that Tommy...

Tommy wouldn’t care about him if he knew.

Fran didn’t. So how could Tommy?

Yeah maybe Tommy knows he’s a bad guy but clearly he doesn’t know about the mark.

He can’t.

“Hey Toms?” Wilbur prompts.

Tommy hums his acknowledgment, starting to stretch, “Yeah?”

Wilbur hums, thinking of the phrasing of his question, “Do you know... Do you know stories like... like a woman getting stuck in a tower. She has long hair.”

“Rapunzel?” Tommy questions with squinted eyes.

“I think that was her name... What about... a girl who falls in love with a beast?”

“Beauty and The Beast?”

“What about, a girl given a poison apple-”

“Snow White. Why are you asking about a bunch of fairytales?” Tommy questions with pinched brows.

“Fairytales?” Wilbur asked.

“Yeah. Fairytales. That’s what category these stories fall into. There’s a bunch. Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, etc...”

Wilbur hummed, muttering to himself, “So all our stories are fairytales now a days...”

“Well, your story wasn’t a fairytale-“ Tommy started.

Wilbur stood up, cutting him off, “Thank you. I was just curious. They were old stories I grew up with and I wondered if they were still around.”

Tommy opened his mouth like he was about to say something but Wilbur cut him off, “Anyway! I have some work to do and I’m sure you have school!”

Tommy pulled out his phone, checking the time, “I have like an hour before I need to get there.”

“Wonderful! There’s something I need to do real quick.” Wilbur said and rushed out of the room, Tommy following after him.

————————————————————————————

Wilbur walked to a different room, full of chests and drawers. All of them labeled in a language Tommy couldn’t read.

Wilbur shuffled through a few, letting out an ‘Ah-ha!’ as he pulled something out.

It was a necklace. Hooked on to it was a bright red feather, burning an orange color then a yellow at the tip.

He gripped it tightly and pulled it close to his face. Closing his eyes and whispering to it.

Tommy couldn’t understand what Wilbur was saying.

Dark purple began to swirl around the feather before creating a purple shimmer over it. Like it was enchanted.

Wilbur turned to Tommy and bent down on his knees, pulling the necklace over Tommy’s head.

“Tommy. This is serious. I need you to keep that on at all times. Never take it off. Do you understand?” Wilbur asked, his voice stern.

Tommy blinked at his seriousness but nodded.

Wilbur grabbed his shoulders firmly, “Promise me.”

“I-I promise.” Tommy gulped.

Wilbur’s grip loosened and he smiled, “Good.”

He patted Tommy’s shoulder before standing up, walking out of the room.

“What... what does it do?” Tommy asked as he trailed behind Wilbur.

Wilbur didn’t even glance back at him, “Don’t worry about it sunshine. Just some protection.”

Tommy looked at it and smiled, “Thank you. It’s really pretty!”

Wilbur melted, looking back and smiling fondly at Tommy as he looked at the feather, “Of course. No need to thank me.”

Tommy jumped at him and hugged his legs, “I love it.”

Wilbur couldn’t stop himself as he bent down and scooped the boy up, throwing him over his shoulder, “Only the best for you, sunshine.”

Tommy giggled and Wilbur spun them around. Making funny noises as he did so. Tommy giggled more, trying to push away but Wilbur just held tighter. Stopping his spinning and adjusting Tommy to sitting on his shoulders.

Wilbur started rushing down the steps, taking them three at a time and leaping off the next.

Tommy screeched out a laugh. Wilbur making whooshing noises as he went.

This was how he wanted to spend the rest of his life. This giddy feeling in his chest that he could be more than the villain.

Wilbur stopped. Smile pulling into a frown.

He can’t do this yet.

He has to... to finish his story first. To take over the world.

Then he can be happy. Unafraid that something will come and take Tommy away.

He can’t let this feeling worm his way into his heart. Make him forget that-

That he has a job to do. A world to conquer.

Tommy cranes his head in front of his face, a worried expression looking into his, “What’s wrong?”

Wilbur shook his head and forced a smile, “It’s nothing. Sorry Toms. Better get you ready for school, yeah?”

Tommy nodded and sat up, Wilbur setting him down. Wilbur summoned his staff, slamming it on the ground.

Tommy got something of a Cinderella transformation without the poofy dress. Just cleaning up his clothes.

“There. How about some food then?”

————————————————————————————

Wilbur dropped Tommy off at school. Making sure to let Clay see him with a menacing smile. Finding a bit of joy in the way the kid immediately ran away.

He then turned to start his journey to Tommy’s old residence.

He had something to take care of.

————————————————————————————

Wilbur appeared at the door, knocking. Seems they haven’t left for work yet.

There was some stomping and the door opened.

“What do you want?” The man squinted at him, recognition sparking in his eyes, “Do I- Do I know you?”

Wilbur smiled, “Depends. Have you ever read Tommy’s book?”

The man’s eyes grew wide and he started backing away.

Wilbur grinned manically as he waved his staff around. The man was suddenly surrounded in a purple glow and lifted off the ground. His wife rounded the corner, eyes going wide at the sight.

She was quickly engulfed in purple, Wilbur bringing her next to her husband.

“What are you-ou going to do to us?” The man asked, voice filled with fear.

Wilbur tilted his head, “No concern for your son? I am from his book. Wouldn’t he be the first one to get hurt?”

“Well he’s not here! We are! Now what are you going to do?” The woman yelled.

Wilbur’s eyes grew dark, “You know... I learned some troubling things from your son. How you treat him.”

“So?! You’re a villain!”

Wilbur grinned manically, “Oh I am. But you seemed to have missed out on something so bright.”

“What...?” The man questioned.

“Your son! He is so innocent! He cared about me, even if I was the bad guy. The sweet kid doesn’t realize just who he befriended. Doesn’t realize just how evil I am.”

“Did you kill him?” The woman asked, sounding annoyed with this conversation and not concerned for her son’s health.

Wilbur’s gaze snapped to her, “No. I will never harm him.”

His smile only grew, “None of us deserve him. But at the very least, I won’t hurt him. He’ll be safe with me. You don’t deserve to even know him. You let the sun itself slip through your fingers and your punishment will be forever darkness. You’ll never see the light again. You won’t even remember him.”

Wilbur waved his staff, their eyes turning hazy.

He whispered of memories forgotten, replaced with something new. Without sunlight. Without the precious boy he’s taken in.

Then he let them fall to be ground. Their heads smacking against the ground in a way that would leave them with splitting headaches when they awoke.

Their son, completely forgotten.

They’d never hurt Tommy again. Never threaten the one good thing he has.

(He’d never see Tommy’s dead body tied up and thrown in front of him. Blood dripping from an open wound-)

Wilbur closed his eyes, taking a deep breath. He turned around with a flourish, walking out of the home with his head held high as he slammed the door shut.

Chapter Text

Things have been... really nice with Wilbur.

It’s only been these two days but Wilbur has been great. School is great without Clay bullying him. And while Tommy used to love his classes because they were an escape from his parents, he can’t wait to go home.

Home sounded so nice. And as always, the image was of Wilbur’s arms.

He tightened his hand around his new necklace, feeling a pulse of comfort. Like Wilbur was squeezing his hand right back.

He smiled softly to himself.

This is all he could ever dream of. So why doesn’t it feel right yet?

Wilbur is... Tommy knows Wilbur isn’t okay.

He’s read the book, how could he possibly be okay?

But Wilbur hasn’t even done anything except hurt people who hurt him. He flew him around on his staff, cleaned his clothes.

But it doesn’t seem like Wilbur just decided to be good. There’s something else going on.

Tommy grips the feather tighter.

Or maybe he’s overreacting. Maybe Wilbur did decide to put his evil to the side now that he wasn’t around people who hate him all the time.

Tommy steps into the cafeteria, grunting when he was tackled.

“Tommy!”

Tommy looked back to see Tubbo and Ranboo. Ranboo panting while Tubbo just grinned at him.

“Hey Tubs.”

They sat down at their usual table, Tommy taking out his lunch box which Wilbur packed for him.

He grinned to himself. Wilbur Soot packed him a lunch box.

“Lunch looks good today. Your parents finally start getting you some real food?”

Tommy’s jaw drops and his eyes go wide as he nearly drops his food, “I forgot...”

“What?” Ranboo asked with pinched brows.

“I forgot to tell you! HOW DID I FORGET TO TELL YOU?!?” Tommy shouted, the rest of the students giving him dirty looks as he shrunk in on himself.

“What did you forget to tell us?” Tubbo asked.

“Wilbur came to life!”

“What...?”

“Wilbur! Y’know? From my book?”

Tubbo and Ranboo gave a nervous glance to each other. Communicating with their eyes.

“Oh... I’m... I’m sure he did Tommy.” Tubbo said unsurely.

Tommy didn’t pick up on it, just blabbering about Wilbur, “Mmhmm! He has this big castle and he asked if I wanted to stay with him! I said yes, obviously, so I’m living in the forest now. Wilbur teleported me to school and he also gave me this cool feather!”

Tommy held it gently in his hands, showing it off. The two bent closer to inspect it.

“Can we see it?” Ranboo asked as he reached out to grab it.

Tommy pulled back slightly and shook his head, “Wilby said I needed to keep it on at all times. And I promised!”

“O-okay Tommy. It’s really cool.” Tubbo said.

“I can ask Wilbur if he would be okay with us hanging out! I don’t see why he would mind.”

The two nodded. Thing is they don’t really believe Tommy.

There’s two options. One, Tommy needed an escape so bad that he made Wilbur his imaginary friend. Or two, some strange dude was pretending to be Wilbur for some reason.

The second option wasn’t likely but still. They needed to make sure their friend was safe.

————————————————————————————

School ended. Tubbo and Ranboo walked with Tommy outside, looking around carefully for Wilbur.

“Wilbur!” Tommy suddenly shouted and started sprinting off.

Tommy crashed into nothing and gave a hug to the air.

Tubbo and Ranboo blinked, frowning at their friend. They gave each other a quick glance.

Tubbo questioning if they should just pretend with Tommy or tell him the truth.

Ranboo shrugged and looked back to Tommy.

Tommy looked like he was holding his imaginary friend’s hand as he lead ‘Wilbur’ over to them.

“These are my friends! Tubbo and Ranboo!” Tommy said with a grin as he pointed to them.

“Um... Hi Wilbur.” Ranboo said with an awkward wave.

Tommy’s brows scrunched together as he titled his head slightly towards ‘Wilbur.’

Suddenly Tommy burst out laughing.

“Guys! Why didn’t you tell me you can’t see him! I completely forgot about your unseeing spell!” Tommy grinned, “You’re safe Wil.”

“Tommy look...” Tubbo started but suddenly Wilbur Soot appeared next to his best friend. Tommy’s hand wrapped around Wilbur’s larger.

Wilbur gave an awkward wave, “Hello.”

Their jaws dropped.

“You’re-“ Ranboo started.

And maybe it’s because they’re children, or the fact they just saw magic happen, but they’re pretty sure that isn’t some strange dude and is actually Wilbur Soot.

“Wait wait... so that- the book? Was-was all of what happened in it real? I’m so confused-“ Tubbo started.

“I got trapped in the book and Tommy freed me.” Wilbur smiled, face falling when he saw Tubbo start to tremble.

“T-Tommy... come here for a second...” Tubbo said nervously.

Tommy let go of Wilbur’s hand and walked over to them. Tubbo grabbed him by the sleeve and pulled him behind him. Standing between him and Wilbur.

“Tommy he’s... if he is real. Really Wilbur Soot. Then... then he’s a bad guy Tommy.” Tubbo said with a shaky voice as he pushed Tommy further back.

Wilbur’s gaze darkened and his hands curled into fists at seeing Tommy pushed away from him.

Tubbo looked at him with wide eyes. Tommy just rolled his eyes and grabbed Tubbo’s shoulder.

“Come on. We talked about this before!”

Ranboo got between them as well. Standing with his arms up even if he was shaking like a leaf. Wilbur’s lips started to curl up.

“Tommy! Look man. I never judged you for your favorite character being the villain but you have to realize he’s REAL now! He tried to enslave the WORLD Tommy! He’s going to hurt you!”

Wilbur snarled at them and they pushed Tommy further, “I won’t hurt him.”

“Tubbo! Come on! I’ve already told you why he’s my favorite! He hasn’t hurt me and he’s been really good to me!”

Tubbo looked at him in horror, “Does he already control you?” Tubbo’s eyes flash to the feather around Tommy’s neck, hands reaching out towards it, “I bet he did something to this-“

Tommy jumped back and Wilbur stepped towards them. Ranboo shouting to stay back.

“I won’t hurt him!” Wilbur shouted, “Get away from him!”

“I could say the same to you!” Ranboo shouted.

Wilbur’s head leaned forward, casting a shadow over his eyes as magic started to buzz at his finger tips.

Tommy’s eyes filtered over to Wilbur, something like recognition sparking in his eyes as he looked over the situation.

This scene looked so familiar to one in the book.

Except he isn’t blind.

Immediately Tommy jumped away from Tubbo, Tubbo reaching out to grab him but missing.

“Tommy!”

Tommy jumped in front of Wilbur, arms extended and facing his friends, “Enough!”

Wilbur stopped his approach as he stood just behind Tommy, carefully placing a hand on Tommy’s shoulder. Grounding himself.

“Get away from him!” Ranboo shouted.

“I said enough!” Tommy shouted, huffing, “Stop it! Wilbur didn’t use a spell on me! He didn’t hurt me! He’s been nothing but nice! We’ve had this conversation so many times! You know why he’s my favorite character. You know he doesn’t hurt people randomly! He doesn’t have a reason to hurt me. So he won’t! As for the feather, I don’t know what it does but I agreed to stay with him before he gave this to me! Back off!!!” Tommy shouted, his friends flinching back.

Another hand settled on his shoulder and Tommy looked up at Wilbur. Everything about the man had softened. The curl of his lips was gone, the dark look in his eyes was replaced with something fond, and the curl of his hands was gone. His hands now resting softly but securely on his shoulders.

“Thank you, sunshine.” Wilbur whispered with a smile.

He then looked to the two and the genuine smile faded to something strained, “Your friends are right. I am a villain but...” he bent down and smiled softly at Tommy, “I’ll never hurt you sweetheart. So sweet of you to defend me.”

Tommy let the sweet words blanket him, smiling at his Wilby, “Of course. I only told the truth.”

Tommy turned to his friends, “Wilbur won’t hurt me, and he won’t hurt you either. Right Wilby?”

Wilbur nodded, “As long as you don’t hurt Tommy.”

The two gave a stiff nod.

Tommy cheered and looked at Wilbur with puppy dog eyes, “Can they come over and play? Pleeeeease?”

Wilbur melted, ruffling his hair, “Of course. If they’d like to.”

Tommy looked back to his friends with a smile, “Come on!”

The two hesitantly approached and were quickly engulfed in purple mist. Disappearing from view.

————————————————————————————

Tommy played with the two around the castle.

Hide and seek and tag. Other childish games Wilbur never played.

Wilbur had planned on getting started today but he was slightly nervous that Tubbo and Ranboo would try to convince Tommy to leave him. Start reminding him of all the bad he’s done.

Maybe Tommy doesn’t care. He honestly doesn’t understand Tommy at all.

He’s so innocent. And it’s either because he’s so innocent that he forgives easily, or he thinks Wilbur is actually a good person at heart.

Naive would be the word for the last one.

Wilbur just smiled to himself as he watches the three play. Happily watching after his Toms.

They argue for a minute on what to play. They end up taking turns picking.

Once the spell is complete, Tommy won’t have to worry about taking turns. Tubbo and Ranboo will do whatever he asks of them. Tommy will be safe from his spell with that enchantment he put on the feather.

Tubbo and Ranboo though... won’t have a choice.

Wilbur’s smile turned into a grin, the dark magic that’s carved into his heart purring happily at the thought.

It hurts. It hurts so bad.

Wilbur ignores it. As he always has.

————————————————————————————

Tommy is the happiest he’s ever been. It’s been a month now. Tubbo and Ranboo have eased into being around Wilbur. Wilbur seems to trust them enough to leave and do... whatever he’s doing.

Wilbur’s been... a little distant.

He still spends time with him, taking him flying, but every night he quietly gets out of bed and leaves. Tommy has followed him a few times.

Wilbur always goes into a back room in the castle. Inside is a bunch of electronics. It basically looks like a messy electronics store.

Wires thrown everywhere and monitors placed all over. Computers stacked on computers and phones everywhere. Tvs. Consoles. Everything.

And Wilbur in the center. Purple mist coming off of him while he messes with them.

Screeching when the electronics zap him before throwing that one away and starting on another.

It’s been happening less lately. Every time he follows him there’s less mistakes. Wilbur able to manipulate the electronics with more and more ease. Wilbur’s grin growing wider and wider each time.

Sometimes it’s a little... scary.

Tommy knows Wilbur won’t hurt him but there’s this sense of wrong in the room. The purple mist.

The dark magic.

Tommy knows what dark magic is. But he doesn’t understand what it has to do with electronics.

What is Wilbur doing?

Maybe Wilbur is just trying to make new spells.

Electronics are a whole new world for him. Maybe he’s just trying to understand them in his own way?

That... that makes some sense.

It’s all Tommy has so he goes back to bed. Unaware of Wilbur’s grin turning feral.

————————————————————————————

The beast in Wilbur’s chest is ecstatic and Wilbur has to say he’s pretty excited as well.

He’s done it! He’s finally mastered it!

Bending signals and radio waves to his will. To fate’s will. He went and tested it out on Tommy’s parents to be sure it worked and it did!

He was able to use electronics to send magic signals! He released his hold on them soon after. No need to waste his energy.

Plus the technology is working just as his crystals did. A conduit. Focusing all of his energy.

His plan has reached its crescendo, and tomorrow morning he will let it all come crashing down.

For now though, Tommy is waiting for dinner.

————————————————————————————

Wilbur and Tommy walk through the small garden just behind the castle. Tommy picking out fruits he wants. Sometimes Wilbur would pick him up so he could reach the trees.

Tommy ate the fresh fruit like it was the best thing in existence. He said he didn’t get fresh fruit often, and even after a month of it he still loves the taste. And Wilbur’s magic certainly helps it’s sweet flavor.

Tommy is everything he needs. The way Tommy has somehow continued to look at him like he is someone special. Someone worth the time of day.

It still makes him feel so... so happy.

Tommy hasn’t stopped looking at him with such excitement. So much fondness.

He’s terrified of the word that wants to crawl up his throat for how Tommy looks at him.

He hasn’t heard the word aimed at him in so incredibly long.

He isn’t sure if Tommy does...

He can’t think it. If he does then he’ll crave it.

And that’s just asking too much from Tommy.

But maybe... maybe he does think that of Tommy. Maybe he does absolutely explode with happiness when he sees that smile. He does melt whenever his tiny hand slips into his, completely engulfed by it.

He does adore the way Tommy tucks himself under his chin and the way Tommy fits so perfectly in his arms.

But he can’t say the word. Because he can’t take it if it’s not said back.

He’s not brave enough. He’s too weak. Too afraid. Too...

Too vulnerable.

If he says it... he won’t be able to go through with this.

If he says it then he’ll be giving himself over to someone else.

He can’t do that. He just can’t.

Tommy brings him back into the moment as they walk back into the castle, “I saw you had a guitar in one of the rooms!”

Wilbur chuckled, “Oh yeah? Surprised you hadn’t found it yet.”

“The castle is huge!” Tommy retorted, “Anyway you know how to play?”

Wilbur stopped in his tracks, “I uh... Yeah, I used to.”

Tommy’s eyes absolutely lit up, somehow looking at him with more awe than he usually does, “Can you play me a song? Please Wilby?!”

Wilbur sighs fondly, “Sure sunshine.”

With a flick of his hand, the guitar is summoned. He finds a seat and settles on it.

“You want anything in particular?” Wilbur asked.

Tommy shook his head, “I don’t care! Whatever you want!”

Wilbur smiled softly and began to strum. He played how he felt. Happy. Content.

Everything was going as it should. He’ll have Tommy and fate will have her story.

Tommy started dancing. Spinning and giggling happily to his song and Wilbur’s smile widened.

All worries and cares forgotten for now.

His plan was tomorrow.

For tonight, he was going to sing and play and watch Tommy dance. Watch that sunshine smile light up the room.

Wilbur settles his guitar down, laughing as Tommy stumbled to a stop, “I have an idea!”

Tommy gives him a confused look and with a flick of Wilbur’s hand, more instruments fill the room.

Another flick and the instruments begin to play on their own.

Tommy’s eyes went wide and he jumped excitedly, grabbing Wilbur’s hand and dragging him to dance.

Wilbur laughed, genuine joy bubbling up his throat as he took Tommy’s hand and spun him around. Letting Tommy use his finger to spin alone.

He grabbed Tommy and lifted him up, spinning in circles to the song. Tommy giggling as Wilbur threw him in the air, catching him with ease.

Wilbur let himself relax. Tommy laughed.

And so they danced.

Everything else forgotten.

————————————————————————————

Wilbur had just dropped Tommy off at school. Wilbur giving him a big grin and an extra order to never take off his feather.

Tommy felt something off about the way Wilbur was smiling. It didn’t feel like Wilbur’s smile. It felt dark and menacing.

Tommy didn’t like it.

He didn’t like it at all.

————————————————————————————

And that’s how Tommy found himself, twiddling his thumbs at lunch.

Tubbo and Ranboo were talking beside him but he couldn’t listen. Outside was dark, overcast with foreboding clouds. The air smelt different today.

There was tension in Tommy’s chest that was making it harder to breath. The oxygen entering his lungs wasn’t a relief, it was a warning. And Tommy didn’t know what it was trying to say.

He kept feeling like there was someone whispering in his ear, but every time he whipped his head around... there was no one.

It was driving him insane.

Something was wrong. He gripped his feather and he didn’t feel comforted. It felt like something dark was pulsing under his hand and burning him.

He tried to focus on his lunch, but looking at the nicely prepared food made him feel like throwing up.

What was wrong with him?

Tubbo and Ranboo’s conversation sounded like it was under water and his breathing was getting more and more difficult. It started turning ragged and wet. Like he was trying to breath but the air was so humid that water filled his lungs.

He started coughing viciously as the whispers only started getting louder. He barely heard Tubbo and Ranboo’s panicked voices. The hands on his shoulders burned and he heard someone call for help.

No...

No that was the whisper.

‘Go Tommy. Go now. You have to help him. Please.’

In an instant Tommy was to his feet. He didn’t know the voice and yet he did. Like he’s heard it somewhere before.

So long ago.

It was when... when he first received the book.

When did he... when did he get it again?

‘Save my son, Tommy.’

Tommy gasped for air and started running. He heard shouts after him but he didn’t stop. Bursting out of the school and running straight into the forest.

His lungs burned as he sucked in as much air as possibly. Greedily taking the oxygen the trees were supplying him.

Trees and bushes smacked against him but he didn’t care.

He just kept running and running and running. He heard people shouting after him and branches snapping behind him, but he didn’t stop.

The voice only grew louder and he just knew he had to follow it. Had to keep going.

It was nearly half an hour later when he finally burst into a clearing. His muscles ached and everything inside him burned.

He was a bit grateful for Clay’s games now.

His eyes slowly looked up and there was no denying what was happening.

There stood the castle, a giant purple beam shooting out of the top and into the sky. Breaking through the clouds and into the atmosphere. Just beyond, he could see the purple grid forming.

It looked just how he imagined it would.

Tommy huffed as he rushed towards the castle, bursting through the door and bolting to Wilbur’s work room, where he saw him go every night.

He pushed open the door and it slammed against the side.

“What are you doing?”

Wilbur whipped around, eyes swirling with black and purple. A feral grin on his face. All around him electronics were emanating a purple glow as they hooked up to his staff, sitting nicely on a stand in the center of it all. Wilbur holding onto it as it shot a giant purple beam to the sky.

“Tommy!” Wilbur exclaimed brightly as his grin somehow grew, “You’re not supposed to be here silly!”

“Wilbur... what are you doing? Y-you-you-”

Wilbur rolled his eyes and clicked his tongue, “Oh come on Toms. Don’t tell me you didn’t see this coming! You very well knew who I was. But don’t you worry your pretty little head. You won’t be affected!” He was smiling like a maniac, the purple in his eyes swirling with his emotions.

Tommy tried to hide the shake of his hands, it starting to crawl up his arms, “Wilbur. You don’t have to do this.”

Wilbur blinked at him then burst out laughing, “Oh dear. I do. Trust me, I do. Very sweet of you though.”

“Stop! This isn’t you!”

“But isn’t this a great version of me?” Wilbur asked, Tommy starting to noticing the tear slipping out of his hazy eye.

“What?”

“Well-”

Suddenly Tubbo and Ranboo burst in behind Tommy, huffing and puffing, trying to catch their breath.

“GET AWAY FROM TOMMY!” Tubbo growled.

Wilbur’s grin fell into a snarl and he flicked his wrist, Tubbo and Ranboo getting surrounded in purple and thrown against the wall. Not with enough force to hurt them, just pin them.

“Anyway, as I was saying.” Wilbur continued, “Just think about it sunshine! Me and you! We rule the world and do whatever we want! Oh it will be wonderful! I have magic that can make us immortal too! It’ll keep you and me just like this. You’ll be my little guy forever, and the world will be our playground!” Wilbur cackled.

“Wilbur.” Tommy said, trying and failing to hide the shaking of his voice, “Put them down.”

Wilbur’s smile turned into a frown as he titled his head, “Are you scared of me, sunshine?”

“N-no.” Tommy said as he stood his ground, nails digging crescents into his palms.

“You sound scared darling. Don’t be. Your friends won’t be harmed. They’ll just listen to us and do what we say. So will everyone. Nobody has to be hurt.”

Tommy took a shaky breath, feeling the lump in his throat that means he’s about to cry, “But Wilbur is this what you want?”

Wilbur faltered, “What?”

“You... you don’t want this. I know you don’t.”

Wilbur smiled almost pityingly, “Oh dear... This has always been what I wanted.”

Tommy let out a humorless laugh, “I read your book. Don’t lie to me!”

“Then you should know it’s true!”

“Wilbur you aren’t evil! You-you never actually wanted this!”

“Well I do Tommy! So what are you going to do about it!”

“I can’t... I can’t support this Wilbur. I don’t want this. And I know you don’t either.”

Wilbur’s breathing started to pick up, becoming more exaggerated as his eyes filtered over Tommy. Tommy was going to leave him.

“T-Tommy! I don’t have a choice! Don’t you get it!?! I’m a pure evil villain from your book!” Wilbur ripped his glove off, “I’m just another one of your fairytales!”

“YOUR STORY ISN’T A FAIRYTALE!” Tommy screeched.

“THEN WHAT IS IT TOMMY!?! HUH?!? TELL ME!” Wilbur shouted back.

Tommy’s anger faded to sorrow and his voice dropped to a shaky whisper.

“It was a tragedy.”

The world stopped. Wilbur feeling like the wind was knocked out of him.

“What...?” Wilbur breathed.

“Y-your book. It was... it was called ‘The Tragedy of Wilbur Soot.’”

Wilbur’s breathing grew frantic, body starting to shake as tears slipped past his eyelids, “I-I-”

Tommy looked to the ground, “It’s... it’s why I liked you so much. I could... I could relate to you.” Tommy wiped his eyes with his wrist, “You were bullied, like me. Your parent neglected you, like mine do. That’s actually how I figured out my parents were bad.” Tommy chuckled wetly, “I realized you being abused wasn’t normal so... so it wasn’t normal for me either.”

“Tommy I-”

“A-and you taught me to keep trying anyway.”

“Tommy I’m not a good role model.” Wilbur said simply, “Look at me. Look at this.” Wilbur pulled up his hand and showed off his symbol, “This-this means I’m a villain. It’s a whole cycle-”

“Whole cycle. Yeah. Yeah, I know about it. Did you think I didn’t?”

Wilbur’s mouth went dry, “W-What? Th-then you know I don’t have a choice-”

“It’s just a symbol. It only means what others say it does. I could go take a sharpie and draw it on me. Doesn’t mean anything.”

Wilbur chuckled slightly at that, “This isn’t a sharpie. This is... its a mark Tommy. I can’t scrub it off I can’t- I can’t change.”

“Then how did you become the villain?”

“What?”

“How did you become the villain? How did an innocent, 8 year old kid become someone who wanted to enslave the world if not without some kind of change?” Tommy asked.

“W-well... I... I must have been evil then as well.”

“Might as well call me evil.”

“No! No Tommy you’re so innocent. You-you somehow care about me and you don’t want to hurt people! I wanted to see Dream hurt and I-”

“You think I’m perfect?!?” Tommy laughed in disbelief, “You really think there aren’t times that I wished my parents would die in a car crash?!? That Clay would trip and fall in the mud?! That I could come in and break his nose?!? Of course I did! That’s why you impressed me so much! You went through all of this but somehow are still so GOOD!”

Tears tracked down Wilbur’s face, “I wasn’t good Tommy. I broke and you didn’t!”

“BECAUSE I HAD YOU!” Tommy shouted.

Wilbur gulped, trying to push away his tears.

“I had you!” Tommy cried, tears slipping down his red cheeks, “You didn’t have anyone! You were so alone! Everyone left you but you never left me! You were there every time my parents hurt me! You were there every time Clay gave me a black eye! You were there every time I needed a hug! You were there every time I had a nightmare! You were there to remind me I wasn’t so alone...” Tommy hiccuped, “If I was you, I’d have done the same thing. Mark or no mark.”

Wilbur opened and closed his mouth, trying to find words but he couldn’t. His chest was tightening, pushing tears out of his eyes. He didn’t even notice they weren’t purple anymore, instead a shining brown. His staff still swirling with violet. Tubbo and Ranboo long since dropped to the floor, watching the conversation intensely.

Tommy spoke up, “Tell me Wil. Why did you turn evil?”

“Because... because it’s what I was meant to do.”

“Wrong. Try again.”

Wilbur’s face morphed to anger, “What do you want to hear from me Tommy?! It’s what I have to do!”

“I’ll tell you why you turned evil! It was so you could stop hurting people!”

Wilbur froze.

“You turned evil when trying to be good got Fran killed!”

Wilbur turned away, not daring to look Tommy in the eyes.

“Wilbur Soot I studied your life. Every important moment I analyzed because I felt what you felt! I tried to be good! I tried to report my parents and it got me hurt! Wilbur you... you are why I still try to be good. Because even in your lowest, you cared.”

Wilbur finally looked over to Tommy, his eyes watering. Tommy’s lip quivering.

“Wilbur Soot... you are my hero.”

Wilbur broke. He fell to his knees, a blubbering hiccuping mess. He looked to Tommy and his arms slowly opened.

Tommy slammed into them. Like the sun rising, he blew the darkness away. The purple clinging to Wilbur’s skin screeched, peeling off of him.

Sunlight dug into his heart, pushing the darkness away. Finding joy in the way it screamed in pain as it evaporated.

The electronics around them popped and whizzed. The lights and screens bursting as wires fizzled and crackled. The staff clattering to the ground. The dark mist gone with the light.

Wilbur wrapped himself around Tommy. Burying his nose in the back of Tommy’s shoulder as he sobbed. Fists full of Tommy’s shirt as his body shook. Tommy arms wrapped around his chest, not able to connect around his back.

“It hurts- It hurts so much Tommy-“ Wilbur blubbered.

“I know...” Tommy whispered and Wilbur squeezed him tightly, nearly screaming as he just clawed Tommy closer.

“Please-please don’t leave me- Tommy please don’t leave me-“ He begged like a child, “Please-“

Tommy buried his nose in Wilbur’s hair, squeezing him tighter, “I’m not going anywhere.”

Suddenly Wilbur stopped. His grip loosened and Tommy’s brows pinched in confusion. Wilbur pulled back and looked into his eyes.

Wilbur’s face was almost blank, but it had a soft hint to it as he grabbed Tommy and moved him. Slowly pushing Tommy’s head to his chest, right above his heart. Tommy could hear it beating beneath his chest.

“I love you.” Wilbur said.

Tommy’s breath hitched, but he answered without hesitation, “I love you too.”

Wilbur gave a soft smile and looked into his eyes.

He started speaking softly, a language Tommy didn’t know but somehow understood. Through it all, Tommy heard Wilbur’s heart beat in time.

Like it too was speaking to him.

‘I give my heart to you
I give you the key to the most powerful being on the planet
I trust your delicate fingers to wrap around its strings, around fate’s strings
I trust your tiny hands to cup it gently and never let it go
I trust you to hold it as it beats
As it feeds me life
I trust you not to hold it too roughly and squash it
I trust you to not hold it too loosely and drop it
I trust you with my very being
May you keep it safe
Keep it tucked away
Feel it beating in your hands
I put my trust in you, a mere child
To tame the untamable’

Suddenly Wilbur’s mark began to glow, Wilbur covering Tommy and closing his eyes.

————————————————————————————

Slowly, Wilbur opens his eyes. He’s surrounded in light. He immediately looks down to Tommy, who’s passed out in his arms.

“Tommy?” Wilbur shakes him slightly but gets no response.

“TOMMY?!?” Wilbur shouts, shaking him more as tears start to gather in his eyes.

“Relax mate. You just hit him with a pretty powerful spell. Worked pretty deep into his being.”

Wilbur’s head shot up, meeting soft blue eyes.

“D-dad?” Wilbur breathed.

“Hello son.” Phil smiles softly at him.

“Y-you...”

Phil crouched down to his knees in front of Wilbur, a sad look in his eyes as he took Wilbur’s marked hand, “Wilbur. I am so so sorry I left you when you needed me.”

Wilbur just glanced away and frowned, “I don’t know what to say to that.”

Phil smiled sadly, “I understand. I’m not asking for your forgiveness. But you deserve to know why.”

Wilbur looked back up to meet his father’s eyes, listening patiently.

Phil took a deep breath, “As soon as the mark appeared, I got to work. I started studying everything I could on the mark, trying to find someway to get rid of it. I started spending less time with you to do it, and I thought I was making the right decision. I thought that... that the mark was an omen. That you were going to become the villain, not by choice.”

“But it was by choice.”

Phil nodded and his eyes grew wet, “I was already planning on leaving when you were found out. I found a lead but it was... incredibly dangerous. And because you are so incredibly good... I knew you wouldn’t let me leave with the high possibility of me dying. So I gave you a boost of energy, and I left. It tore me apart but I knew you’d survive. I didn’t realize that- that in accepting your fate that-“

“That would be what caused my downfall.”

Phil let tears slip down his cheeks but the sad smile stayed, his big black wings wrapping around and cacooning them, “Yeah... yeah. Wilbur you became the villain because that’s what we told you you were. We, our entire world, pushed you and pushed you and you fought so hard. If I had stayed... if I had stayed and kept you safe, this never would have happened. If you weren’t so alone... you never would have become a villain. After I realized that... that fate decided she didn’t want a black and white story anymore, it was too late. So I got to work again. I had to find some way to convince you. I found a very, very powerful spell. It allowed me to see possible futures. I found Tommy that way.”

Wilbur smiled and looked down at the bundle in his arms, breathing softly, “I’m glad you did.”

Phil chuckled, “He was something else. He needed you just as much as you needed him. And so I trapped you in the book and I used the last of my magic to keep the book safe through time until I could deliver it to Tommy.”

“Dad... the last- the last of your magic-“

Phil rubbed Wilbur’s hand gently, “Mmhmm. I used it all up. This is the last spark of it, keeping me here.”

Wilbur felt tears stinging his eyes, “I don’t want to lose you.”

Phil bumped his forehead against his son’s, “You won’t truly lose me. I’ll be in your heart. Right in Tommy’s hands.”

The two chuckled wetly.

Wilbur looked to the mark on his skin, “So... will this go away?”

Phil shook his head, “I’m not powerful enough to get rid of it. But you are powerful enough to fight it. It’s a monumental task but... you have to keep it. As long as you’re here, fate’s precious story is incomplete. The cycle will never restart.”

Wilbur took a deep breath and nodded, “I’ll do it.” He then looked to Tommy, “I’m not alone anymore, after all. The weight of it won’t be so heavy.”

Phil smiled and slowly took off his necklace. A single black feather attached to it.

Phil’s wings disappeared as he held it out towards Wilbur. Wilbur bowed his head and Phil pulled it over, the feather dangling from his neck.

Phil then pulled up his marked hand, pressing a kiss to it, “My son. I’m so proud of you.”

“I love you, Dad.” Wilbur hiccuped.

“I love you too. Stay yourself, Wil.”

With that, Wilbur was blinded once more.

————————————————————————————

Wilbur blinked his eyes open. Tommy was still tucked into his arms, snoring softly.

He chuckled wetly to himself and peppered Tommy’s face with kisses. Even in his sleep, his face scrunched up in disgust.

Wilbur laughed and brought him to his chest once more, keeping him right next to his heart.

Tommy snuggled closer to it like they were magnets.

He looked up at the sounding of coughing.

Tubbo and Ranboo stood there, awkwardly shuffling around.

“Oh... I am SO sorry-“ Wilbur started.

Tubbo raised his hand to silence him, “Tommy cares a lot about you,” he marched up to Wilbur and stabbed a finger into his chest, “If you ever hurt him then you will be nuked.”

Wilbur burst out laughing, “Okay, okay. I won’t hurt him. Promise.”

Tubbo huffed and nodded to himself, Ranboo awkwardly stepping closer and peering at Tommy.

“Is he alright?”

“Yeah he’s fine. Just got a bit sleepy. He’s adorable when he’s sleeping, isn’t he?”

Tommy suddenly shot up straight, “Aaaand I’m awake.”

“Were you just faking it?!?” Wilbur sputtered.

Tommy shrugged, “Wouldn’t you like to know.”

Wilbur just groaned and immediately turned it into peppering kisses to Tommy’s cheek.

“I’M BEING ATTACKED!” Tommy shouted.

Wilbur pushes Tommy’s face closer so their noses were touching, “Thank you, Tommy. Genuinely.”

Tommy softened, looking a bit unsure before leaning to the side and pressing a kiss to Wilbur’s cheek.

He immediately pulled back and blushed, pushing off Wilbur while he was stunned.

“Yeah, yeah. You’re welcome.” Tommy said with a bright red face.

Wilbur touched his cheek, still in awe. Suddenly his face split into a grin.

“AWW SUNSHINE! COME HERE!”

Tommy screeched as Wilbur launched himself at him, narrowly avoiding him. Wilbur then proceeded to chase Tommy around the castle, all the way outside before finally scooping him up.

Grinning widely as he nuzzled his cheek into Tommy’s hair, “TOMMYYYYYYY!”

Tommy groaned, face somehow still red, “You don’t get to act like this when you’re the one who gave me your heart in an absolutely disgusting display of affection!”

“I can act however I want.”

Tommy just shook his head, both of them going quiet at the sounds of the forest. Wilbur just continued to hold him close, closing his eyes and burying his face in the golden hair. Tommy let his eyes shut to the sound of Wilbur’s heartbeat.

It was such a soothing sound. It was like he could feel each beat in his very being.

Pulsing right next to his, right in rhythm.

“What now?” Wilbur asked distantly.

Tommy shrugged, “I don’t know... We could go rob a bank or something.”

Wilbur choked, “Toms- Toms I’m supposed to not be the villain-”

“Aye aye-“ Tommy chuckled, “I never said anything about not doing crime. You must have misheard me.”

Wilbur burst out laughing, barely able to get his next sentence out, “Y-you want to go rob a bank- do some crime-”

“Course! What else is better to do with our time?”

Wilbur’s laughter died down and his face went slightly curious as a thought came to mind, “Actually...”

————————————————————————————

The bank’s alarms blared as Wilbur grabbed Tommy and rushed out. Invisible to everyone around. People screamed in confusion as he pushed past them, both he and Tommy laughing as they carried bags of money.

————————————————————————————

Wilbur and Tommy stood perched a top a tall building, watching as Tommy’s parents were shoved into the police station. Tommy had his phone out, a news video covering the story.

“-ith an anonymous tip, the police recovered nearly all of the stolen money from last night’s robbery. The money was found in the Innits’ household. They are being brought into the police station now, and are awaiting charges. A search party has been warranted for their son, Thomas Innit whom his parents claim does not exist. Some believe that they will be charged with child endangerment and neglect. Surprisingly, the only cash still unaccounted for is what was already in their bank account. Police are still searching the household. Stay tuned for further developments.”

Tommy clicked off the video, smiling at Wilbur, “So, we’re off to see the world?”

Wilbur smiled, “If that’s what you would like to do. I’d like to see how it’s changed.”

Tommy smiled, “Alright then. Better get started. Do the... the staff thing, to make it float.”

Wilbur smiled, “Y’know... there are other ways we can fly.”

Tommy raised a brow.

Wilbur then whispered with a smirk, holding onto his feather necklace as he said something Tommy couldn’t understand.

Suddenly black crow wings unfolded from Wilbur’s back. They looked huge and powerful as he feathers ruffled into place. Wilbur gave them a gentle smile and stretched them slightly.

“Wilbur.” Tommy said seriously, making Wilbur eye him with concern, “Wilbur you could have given me wings. Why was this not the very first thing you told me?”

Wilbur burst out laughing, his feathers fluffing up too, “Not really what was on my mind!”

“But Wilbur. Wilbur they’re wings.” Tommy said as he shook Wilbur’s shoulders.

Wilbur wiped away a fake tear, “Alright, alright. Do you want wings or not?”

Tommy nodded vigorously, grabbing his feather necklace, “Is that what this was for?!?”

Wilbur held it gently, it still wrapped around Tommy’s neck. The purple enchantment gone and replaced with a lighter blue color.

“Well no. This is a Phoenix feather. Very, very rare. I originally enchanted it so you couldn’t fall victim to my spell, and put a tracking and protection enchantment on it. But it has its own magical properties. If you were to die, it would revive you.”

Tommy’s eyes went wide, “What!?”

Wilbur chuckled, “Please don’t take that as a dare to go be reckless. It’s a onetime use, and my poor heart can’t take it.”

Tommy’s features softened and he nodded, “Okay. I’ll be careful.”

Wilbur knocked their foreheads together, “Good.”

He then whispered the same thing as before. Tommy taking a shocked breath in at the new feeling on his back.

He looked behind him, completely in awe at the beautiful wings on his back. They burned a bright red, swirling into orange and then a bright yellow at the tips.

“They’re amazing...” Tommy breathed.

“They are quite pretty. Would you like to test them out?”

Tommy nodded so fast Wilbur was scared he’d get whiplash.

“Okay!” Wilbur chuckled, “Just watch what I do.”

Wilbur jumped off the side of the building, wings spreading out behind him and easily catching the wind. He flapped them a few times before circling back and landing next to Tommy.

“Alright. Your turn.”

Tommy stepped to the edge, nervously glancing down, “Uh... that’s a bit far, big man.”

Wilbur put a gentle hand on his shoulder, Tommy looking up to see his soft smile, “I won’t let you fall Toms. Just let your wings do most of the work. I’ll be there to catch you.”

Tommy gave a shaky smile before looking forward with determination. With a deep breath, he leaped off. Wings flapping behind him nervously as he started falling.

“Let your wings guide you!” He heard Wilbur shout.

Tommy closed his eyes, letting his wings do the work as the opened gently. They caught on the wind, lifting him in the air with a few beats. He kept his eyes squeezed shut, terrified to look down.

“Toms...” A voice called from beside him, “Open your eyes.”

Tommy carefully pried one eye open, both opening in shock to see he was keeping himself in place. Wings flapping behind him and countering gravity.

Tommy let out a laugh of awe, “This is so cool!”

Wilbur chuckled from beside him, “You did so good sunshine. You’re a natural at this.”

Tommy smiled proudly, “I’m a natural at everything.”

Wilbur ruffled his hair and it nearly threw him off balance as he tried to push away. Wilbur laughing at his pain.

“Well that’s enough floating around! Let’s go!” Tommy shouted as he leaned forward and burst through the air.

Wilbur followed after him, staying a small bit behind to watch Tommy try and do tricks. Spinning in circles, flipping, letting himself fall to gain more speed before shooting back up into the clouds.

The setting sun painting the sky orange and purple. Shining beautifully off Tommy’s wings.

Wilbur watched his heart soar through the sky. Innocent laughter filling the skies.

“Come on Wilby! You’re so slow!” Tommy called as he did another flip.

Wilbur smiled softly to himself.

Yes,

He’ll follow his heart anywhere