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Chapter Text

It was like pristine white quartz resting on top of ash. The bright white and gold clashing with the dark, hardwood floors of his apartment in a way that made it impossible to miss. Grian still had his hand resting on the front door which he had just opened. He had stalled after seeing the letter that was quite possibly slipped under his door while he was at work.

He went from tired after a long day, to his heart racing as fast as his brain was trying to comprehend what the letter was. He knew, of course he knew, who the letter was from. The color and emblem wax seal gave it away. That and the fact the Grian had a drawer in his kitchen (the one furthest for the front door and the closest to the floor) that had several of the same letters hidden under unused tupperware.

Grian took the final step past the threshold of the door, closing it softly behind himself. He dropped his satchel bag on the floor kicking off his shoes without looking away from the letter. With slightly shaking hands he gingerly picked it up. He flipped it around hoping to possibly gauge what its contents said.

Historically, each time he got these letters they all had the same contents. A firm and professional denial of his original wish. Biting the bullet, Grian sighs, breaking the golden wax seal.

Dear G. Xelqua,
It is our greatest honor to formally invite you to the audition to be the superhero HotGuys newest sidekick. Not only has your past action caught our eyes within the Hero Association, but HotGuy has chosen you, among others, himself.
Please see the attached documents and follow the instructions for the final judgment. Congratulations, and remember: Eyes in the Sky Keep Everyone Safe.

Grian feels his eyes widen as he reads the letter. He was shaking, accidentally crumbling the paper in his hands. He lifts the letter closer to his face, just to make sure that he's read it correctly. Then he read it again. Then one more time to make sure.

Flipping over the letter he sees a list of requirements to bring to the audition and where to go. He sets the letter down on his kitchen counter, releasing a breath he didn't realize he was holding. He leaned over, running his hands down his face.

He had been waiting for this moment for far too long. Letter after letter and night after night sent and spent trying to get the attention of the association just for the small chance he would get recognized. This was his only chance, he can't lose this; he won't lose this.

Not only would this be helpful for getting out of this horrible apartment (he could hear the dripping water from each faucet and the smell of musk and dust from around the room. While he understands that he's lucky to even be able to afford a roof over his head, the type of income The Association can offer is more than enough to turn heads.) but even more reason: they have information on all the goings on in Hermitopia Empire.

They have the one and only database that contains every known gang, underground network, and anyone who has ever even been mentioned in a crime. Or at least, he hopes they do. And that is his main and only reason for trying for this partnership.

Taking a deep breath Grian dropped his hands standing up straight. Folding the letter back up he placed it in his back pocket. He had to get ready. The letter said he had to meet up at the Hero Center for his Judgment tomorrow afternoon.

It was very soon but that wasn't surprising to Grian. Every source that he has ever read about people being contacted by the Association for a Judgment, it was on very short notice. Grian knew he would be ready for tomorrow, but that being said he still had things to do tonight as well.

***

It was a cool night out in the city. A slight breeze coming from the southeast that kissed Grians exposed shoulders. Mid-summer was treating the air kind. He fluffed his wings out behind himself, feeling the wind through his feathers. It felt nice, having his wings out for the first time in a while.

While hybrids were not new to Hermitopia Empire, eventent by the wolf hybrid mayor, winged hybrids were something rare. It was even rarer to have wings such as Grian. Pure white slowly changes to a deep rich red at the tips. Very…recognizable Grian knows.

But oddly enough the public didn't seem to believe that his wings were real. Most news reported that they were just really high-tech prosthetics which was honestly not the most outrageous explanation for his one-of-a-kind wings. There were several supers around that don't really have powers as much as they have the smarts to make themselves weapons.

Most notably 77 and Starvoid. Two completely opposite people morally Grian might add. The former being a villain and the ladder being a hero. Both, though, made their own suits and gear. Every news station and their mother knew about the super technology that went into each of their suits. It was way beyond Grian level of comprehension so he opted to leave both of them be, whenever they ran into each other.

(77 was actually quite a nice guy despite being a villain. Once when they both got trapped in a burning building during a fight with famous hero Tek, he offered him a mask to filter the smoke. Great guy really, he didn't even poison the mask.)

The sides of Grians mouth quirked up in a smirk, flexing his wings behind himself. They had it all wrong clearly. After all, it would've been significantly harder to get on top of the highest building in Hermitopia Empire without flying.

Case in point, the man who was currently clamoring over the ledge and dropping onto his back in the gravel. He was gasping for breath as if he had just run a marathon. Grian had to guess that it makes sense for a man who just scaled a whole tower.

Turning his head to watch said idiot, Grian saw his normal patrolling outfit. A black tight-fitted shirt with his signature blue and orange logo plastered in the center of his still gasping chest and baggy black pants cinched around his calves. He had his bow clipped to his back in a way that could not be comfortable to lay on and his quiver attached to his thigh. And of course, dark framed sunglasses that somehow never flew off his face (no matter how hard Grian hit him). They were so dark that his eyes were completely obscured.

The idiot on the ground was none other than the most famous superhero this side of the server: HotGuy. What a joke.

The two had a love-hate relationship – or well, tolerate-hate relationship. In which HotGuy seemed to begrudge Grians existence, happily leaving him be while occasionally having a polite conversation (these polite conversation typically happened while HotGuy was trying to apprehend Grian but that was neither her nor there. Just because HotGuy didn't mind Grian and his vigilante business, it was illegal. And the hero did have a job to do after all.) and Grian would usually avoid the man at any and all instances (other than the occasional fight, of course.)

Heroes and vigilantes have a, to put it nicely, strained relationship. Most heroes hate them while others see them as harmless hero wantabes. While being “harmless” is decisively not true Grian knows, most vigilantes do try to do good with the powers they've been given. Like most, Grian finds himself on the fence. Then again he is identified in the public and by the news as a vigilante himself. Maybe that means he should support the vigilante side more, maybe it means he should stop lying about actually being a true vigilante.

The “hero” lifted his head to look at Grian with what he could only hope was a glare before speaking.

“You know…you could…ask to meet…me somewhere… lower..” The man pants. He threw his arm out toward the ledge as if to accentuate his point. Grian couldn't help but roll his eyes at the hero's dramatics.

“Are you always this – actually, I already know the answer is yes.” Grian scoffed, going back to scanning the streets below. It had been a quiet night. Normally that would be fine. Great even. It meant less work for him to do and less people getting hurt. But just like a full moon to an ER, it feels like a bad omen when it's quiet.

Grians feathers ruffled as he heard the hero shift behind him. He may have asked the hero to meet him here in good faith, but that doesn't mean he trusts him.

He flicked his feathered ears when the superhero stood up walking over then slyly leaning against the ledge Grian was perched on. He went to bend over to look down at the streets, but Grian watched as his face got slightly pale, then he quickly pulled back. He thought it before, and he’ll think it again, HotGuy is an idiot.

Clearing his throat, Hotguy smoothed over his clear frightened features replacing it with a charming smile.

“As much as I’m sure you asked to meet me here under the most altruistic intentions, I doubt you just wanted to watch the beautiful sunset together. So, vigilante-who-wont-give-me-his-name, what's up?” The hero asked a bit breathy, not able to completely recover from both the climb and the height related fright. “If you wish to turn yourself in, I promise to tell everyone you put up a fight.” He added, tipping his head into the smile.

Rolling his eyes, Grian took a moment to put his thoughts together, turning fully to the man. He couldn't see the hero's eyes through the sunglasses, but he wishes he could. Especially as his smile gradually becomes wider and wider as he reaches back to pull the letter out of his shorts pockets.

The dark haired hero just looked confused at Grians lack of words but turned his head to watch Grians movements. Whether that was a trained thing or a curiosity thing, Grian wasn't sure but the look on his face was getting progressively more and more confused.

Slowly, he unfolded the letter and stretched his hand toward the hero, urging him to take it. All while he still had a sly smile plastered on his face.

“You know Pesky Bird, you are making me a bit nervous here…” The hero laughed. Still though he pulled the letter out of Grians hand. He let his arm drop, continuing to watch the hero's face.

Gradually the confused look was overtaken by shock, then by what Grian couldn't only assume was grief. He couldn't resist barking out a laugh. Slipping off the ledge he sat on the ground with his back to the short wall, keeping his wings in close, as he giggled.

Grian may not have liked the hero, but he knew he was going to have a good time with this. The famous HotGuy, forced to take up an apprentice against his will, without his own knowledge, and the real kicker? A vigilante.

“No…They wouldn't! Not without my knowledge…You! When- How- Ugh!” The hero so eloquently huffed. “I don't need a sidekick! Let alone a hooligan like you!” He stomped his foot like a child. “Listen, I don't mind you vigilantes doing some of my work for me. But this is too far Bird Boy!” He threw the letter on the ground scowling at Grian. His tune changed quite quickly from amicable to anger. Typical for what Grian expected his reaction to be.

“Well that's not a very kind way to talk to your new partner HotGuy.” Grian tutted back standing. He walked over, gravel crunching under his feet then picked the letter off the ground. He wasn't sure if he needed it to get into the audition so he would rather be safe than sorry.

“I thought you called me here to like, turn yourself in or something!” He crossed his arms over his chest, joselting the bow whose string stretched over his shoulder down to his hip. “You never showed an interest in being a hero before, so why the sudden switch? We were literally fighting in Hermissippi Park a week ago. You broke my arm!”

“Guess they had a change of heart, seeing as I did break your arm, maybe they see me as better than you now.” Grian shrugged with a smile climbing back onto the ledge. Spluttering, HotGuy dropped his arms taking a menacing step toward Grian. “Ah ah ah! I’m going to be your sidekick soon. No reason to arrest me now!” Grian turned to face the hero, his back to the open air.

“I won't stand for this you feathered menace!” He growled, taking his bow off over his head. “I'm sure they'd be willing to make an exception if I bring you in tonight.”

“If you could catch me first, seeing as you are currently on top of the tallest tower in the Hermitopia Empire. I’ll see you tomorrow HotGuy, I look forward to it.” And with that, Grian fell backwards feeling the wind whip though his hair and feathers.

The last thing he saw before flipping over and soaring into the air was HotGuy nocking an arrow pointing down off the side of the tower. He also felt the heat from the flame arrow whizzing past his leg. Looking over his shoulder Grian could just make out HotGuy nocking another arrow. But he was already turning into an alleyway, losing sight of the hero.

Smiling to himself, Grian turned his course back to his apartment back to the city. He still needed to pack the last of his belongings in preparation for when he has to move into the Association Hero Tower.

Chapter Text

Grian stared at himself in the tiny bathroom mirror affixed above the sink. His eyes scanned over every inch of himself but he couldn't find out what was wrong. He just felt it. The eyes that were looking at himself were not seeing something.

He stood in his usual vigilante outfit, getting prepared for the audition that was only a few short hours away. All black jumpsuit with the back and shoulders cut out to make using his wings easier. Its sleeves were full length cuffing around his wrists tightly. The whole garment had pink and red trim because that was all that the craft store had on sale when he went to buy some. He had his quiver in place between his wings, the strap resting over his shoulder and across his chest.

It made it hard to grab arrows while flying, but he wasn't about to copy that idiot HotGuy more than he already does. How the guy is able to have his arrows strapped to his thigh and still be in position to grab more in battle was beyond Grian.

He had repainted his clawed nails after getting home last night; matte black with pink and red. (He may not have wanted those colors to be his motif, but he'd be nothing if not consistent.) He usually opted to not have fingerless gloves since it was a hindrance, but today he put them on. Typically he only wore them when it was cold, but he saw them on his counter and put them on without much thought.

His pants were tucked into his mid calf combat boots he had found at a second hand store for cheap. He had switched out the laces for, again, pink and red ones. They added about three inches of height to Grian, so he often switched out the laces and just wore them as normal shoes. That being said, they were quite worn out.

Seeing all this, Grian still couldn't work out what was wrong. His wings were preened, each feather perfectly in place. His hair in a high tight bun to keep it out of the way. Slight stubble on his chin he couldn't be bothered to shave away. Nothing was off from what he normally looked like and wore.

Whatever. Grian scoffed, turning away from the mirror. It was probably just nerves. He knew what he was getting into, and he was very sure he would get the job. But with nothing left to blame the weird feeling on, he decided he must be a tiny but nervous.

He walked out of his bathroom to the main, and only, room of his apartment. There was a small love seat couch in the center, otherwise known as his bed, and two small boxes piled against the wall under the one window. He had packed away everything that really mattered for when he could move into the Hero Tower, the place where all main heroes and their sidekicks must live. He was hoping to be able to move in later tonight.

Checking one last time that his quiver was stocked full of pink tipped arrows, he opened up the window doing his best to try and shimmy out onto the outcropped roof of his downstairs neighbor. Getting his wings through was always the worst. He was a small guy but not “jumping out a window smoothly” small.

Finally pulling his wings through, luckily only losing a few fathers, exasperated, Grian took a running jump off the roof into the sky. He's glad that he's as light as he is or else his rude-as-hell neighbor would have definitely complained by now with how often he uses that roof as a landing and take off point.

The flight was short by high off the ground. While it was true he wasn't the only person with an ability of flight in the city (quite the opposite, flight was one of the most common powers), he really didn't want to be recognized on his way to the Hero Tower.

Even as high up as he was, the Hero Tower was always in his sights. Visible from almost any point in Hermitopia Empire while not even being the tallest. It was bright compared to every other building as if commanding everyone's eyes to look and stare and watch it. It was multiple levels of purple and white brick utilizing one way glass for the windows from bottom to top. The lower levels were said to be office space while the upper most floors were for the heroes. Something about “being able to keep an eye on the city” but Grian thought that was bullshit. More likely was it that they just wanted to feel even more powerful than they already were.

Weaving his way through the alleys between the tallest buildings, Grian started to descend from his flight. He landed a few blocks away from the actual tower stumbling slightly in the dilapidated ally. The uneven road was dirty with trash and rainwater runoff. Gross. But he started to fix himself up from the flight; smoothing his hair back into a perfect bun and tucking his pants back into his boots.

Grian startled badly when he heard a crash from his left. He jumped back, nocking an arrow quicker than a wink, poised in the direction where the sound emanate . Eyes searching for the culprit turned up nothing other than a pile of trash stacked precariously beside a rusting dumpster.

Then slowly emerging from the black bags was a white and gray plump cat with striking green eyes.

Grian lowered his bow with a relieved sigh, eyes still scanning the area still. Finally, seeing that the assumed danger had passed, he got down on his knee while he replaced the arrow and bow back to their holsters. He held his hand out as the cat came up to him meowing incessantly. It was oddly social for a street cat, Grian thinks. Then again, this cat didn't look very dirty so many they had just made a break for escape.

Welp, not his problem. The cat will find its way home. He was a vigilante for people, not for lost cats.

With one last scritch to the chin, Grian pulled his hand back and stood up preparing to leave the alley. He got one step into the process before the cat waltzed in front of his feet then dropping to its back, showing their soft white belly and purring loudly.

Okay, maybe now it was his problem. That was the cutest thing he'd ever seen.

He had never had a pet before. Well any that he can remember at least. He thinks that his sister Pearl may have had a cat before as it was her favorite animal. This cat reminded him or her, with their green eyes. He hopes wherever Pearl is, she has a cat. They made her really happy. Maybe if he could get out of this alleyway he would be one step closer to finding her.

With newfound determination he stretches down to give the cat one last pat (he really needed to go, but he wasn't a monster) before speedily skirting around them. Stepping out of the alley he made a beeline for the Hero Tower.

Pushing past mindless commuters, Grian finally was able to stroll around the building to the entrance. The intimidating glass doors were propped open, as they always were (they tried to keep up the illusion that anyone can walk around the building and talk to the heroes. Yet there were at least five security checkpoints and you needed a badge to even get in. So the only place the average city goer was going to see was the lobby.) Grian rolled his eyes at the preformative gesture of equality.

He saw other vigilantes he'd come to know about over the past few months excitedly walk through the front doors. Presumably they had also been invited to audition for HotGuys sidekick or possibly for a different hero. These auditions were not exactly a rare occasion, but typically out of the hundred or so people sent an invite only one or two people actually gained the favor of a hero enough to become their sidekick.

Historically that has been the only way to become a full blown hero with the permits to fight crime (while possibly inflicting major damage in the surrounding area.) Being a vigilante has never been the best way to do this either. The Hero Association has apprenticeships and assistant applications open but those are notorious to take years to get through. To Grian, the best way to get his invite accepted was to get noticed. Make moves, get seen, do good in the streets and hopefully don't get arrested before the Association tries to recruit him.

Walking to the front arch, he realizes he feels okay. Good even. He really doesn't want to come off cocky, but he isn't nervous. He's just…assured. Everything he's done up to this point was leading up to this audition and this moment. He couldn't fail his friends and sister. He will find them, and this is the only way how.

He fought on the streets as a vigilante for exposure and experience. He purposefully kept his identity a secret. He never had a vigilante name or persona. He will not walk out of this building without the job. He will find out where Mumbo, Impulse and Pearl went, no matter what it takes.

With one last breath, Grian holds his head up confidently walking past the grand doors into the Hero Tower lobby.

Chapter Text

The inside lobby of the Hero Tower is opulent, Grian notes. Just stepping past the threshold of the tall arched doors he sees the bright purple, gold and white accents on everything. The plush chairs on either side are arranged around a table; one might exchange pleasantries around coffee with friends. The floor beneath his feet was a roll of royal purple carpet that stretched from the doors to the main desk that had a single woman sitting behind a computer.

Above her was the logo of the Hero Association, a simplistic wide open eye with gold eyelashes with a purple iris. It was supposed to represent how the heroes watch over the city to keep everyone safe, but Grian just thought it was creepy. He couldn't quite put his finger on why, but it certainly sent a shiver up his spine.

Walking past the chairs and tables he walked up to the receptionist behind the also pure white computer. She was sitting chewing gum while seemingly playing some game on her computer screen. In the refectling of her glasses Grian could see some game that was very blocky. He didn't know much about games but he was pretty sure you weren't supposed to play them on the clock.

He cleared his throat trying to get her attention, but all she didn't was roll her eyes. Grian looked around confused, not knowing how to react to that. With a sigh she finally spoke up.

“You here for the hero try out?” She asked.

“Uh…yes. Do you need anything or?” He asked back, still confused.

“Yea you got the invite we sent you?” She held out her hand still looking at her screen.

“Yes here.” Grian shifted nervously after handing his golden invitation to her. He was prepared for fighting and showing off his crime fighting abilities, not for talking to people.

Without even taking a glance at the given letter she stamped it harshly before handing it back to Grian, who fumbled to grab it.

“Down the hall to the left. Can't miss the line. The audition starts from this moment on, anything could happen. Assume everything is part of a test, ‘cause it is. Have a good day and remember, Eyes in the Skies Keep Everyone Safe.” She said lazily waving to the left quickly going back to her game.

Stuffing the letter back in his pocket he swiftly walked down the left-most hall. It didn't take him very long to find the line the woman was talking about. There had to be about 50 people here. It was a wide range of people.

Some looked as if they had been training for this moment their whole lives. Tight shirts that showed off muscles and toned stomachs. Some were hybrids like Grian. There was a timid looking fawn hybrid girl who had flowers and vines weaved through her hair. Next to her was actually a vigilante Grian had met before. He was a Glare hybrid, probably just as rare as Grian if he's honest.

Also in line there were several vigilantes he'd come to know, albeit begrudgingly, throughout his time on the streets. Not just the Glare hybrid but also the Sleeper duo, as Grian calls them. He had once saved their asses from a burning building that they had willingly ran into. Granted it was because they were trying to save civilians but still.

The Sleeper Duo was a two person team where both of them had complementing powers. One of them had the ability to hypnotize anyone who looked in his eyes. Powerful in its own right but with his partner it was almost infallible. They had the ability to slow down anyone just by being close to them. Grian couldn't determine a radius on their power, but he didn't really want to find out either. Best just to stay away from that one when in battle.

Grian had watched the duo multiple times slow someone down, get the target to look them in the eyes, then they suddenly fall asleep. Before Grian knew either of their powers, he had assumed that one of them had the ability to knock someone out, which is where the Sleeper Duo name came from (most vigilanties choose to not have names. There's definitely a few that did, but it usually just made it harder to live a normal life outside of the night time activity. Plus, police records were a bitch to deal with.) After learning of their true nature he gave them a wide berth. There's no telling what someone with that level of hypnosis could also do.

But that didn't seem to stop one of them from taking a liking to Grian after their rescue.

The one that Grian knew had the hypnosis power was waving wildly at him trying to get his attention. Usually, Grian would ignore him just like every other time the two had happened to run into each other on their nightly patrols. But the words of the receptionist rang through his head. The test had already begun and the heroes were personable and kind; he'd have to put up a good act to get through this day.

Throwing up a plastic smile Grian waved back, walking past the last few people in line to stand with the Sleeper Duo and the fawn hybrid.

They both wore what Grian recognized as their vigilante gear. The one with hypnosis (Grian really should make up real names for them) was the taller of the two. He had medium brown short hair covered by a black baseball cap. A black vest with orange and yellow accents sat over his chest tightly. Under that was a long sleeve flannel tucked into black cargo pants. Both the vest and pants pockets seemed to be filled with an abundance of random objects. Grian didn't know if all them were even useful to fighting or if they were truly just random things.

In opposition was his partner, who had a pair of black jeans with a blue and black hoodie on. Grian had seen him have his hood up sometimes and he supposed that this was the one in the duo that needed more stealth compared to his more… personal powered friend. He was the shorter of the two as well, with dark chocolate brown hair and a scruffy looking beard.

“Hello! Fancy seeing you two here. Didn't know you wanted to become heroes.” Grian smiled, leaning his back against the wall and bringing his leg up to complete his cool-guy look.

The hypnosis guy lit up like a christmas tree, jumping up and down clapping his hands together. His glasses stayed firmly in place.

“Oh! You actually came over, Birdy!” He paused looking excitedly at his partner. “We actually weren't expecting an invite. We thought it might have been a set up to arrest us.” He shrugged. Grian was starting to get the idea that this guy was very expressive. In comparison his partner had yet to say a word or even stop shifting nervously.

Still bouncing, the vested man kept speaking in an accented voice.

“But surprisingly they didn't! And we would rather be doing what we're doing legally than illegally. Kinda defeats the purpose no? Us breaking the law when we are trying to enforce it. No no no that just wouldn't be right. So here we are! We’re gonna be heroes! Right xB?” He asked his partner who stilted at the use of his name.

“Don’t say my name idiot, they aren't supposed to know that.” He spoke, eyeing up Grian and the fawn who had yet to say anything at all. Grian looked her over, she just nervously waved slowly, still staying quiet. Looking back to the Sleeper Duo, who were now bickering, Grian decided to say something he truly did not believe.

“Well I mean, xB right? When we all work together as heroes it won't matter right? We will be friends and all that!” Grian turned up his smile.

Hypnosis man brighted nodding his head swiftly while bouncing on his toes. xB, though, reared his head back looking confused. He looked Grian up and down tilting his head either way as if he was solving a puzzle. Grian just continued to exude calmness and confidence, hoping that whatever xB was trying to piece together, he wouldn't.

Luckily, xB shook his head then glanced back down at his shoes, shoving his hands in his pockets and shrugging his shoulders.

“I don't know man. You seem awfully confident about that. We don't even know your name and you literally saved us once. Why the sudden turn around?” xB asked.

Before Grian could even start to think of a way out of that question, a loud voice started speaking from the front of the line.

“Excuse me! Hello! Welcome to the official Hero Association audition!” The man started walking his way down the line making sure everyone could hear him as he continued speaking. “You may recognize me as the Hero StarVoid, I am the facilitator of all official auditions, sidekick and otherwise.”

Ah. StarVoid. Grian had never had the misfortune of ever running into him luckily, but that man carried an aura. He was shroud in dark green plated armor from head to toe. His mask resembled that of a motorcycle helmet, except the visor was chroma purple and completely impossible to see his face though. Nobody had ever seen StarVoids face nor had they damaged the helmet.

There were plenty of theories as to why he always wore the suit. Many thought it was just protection as he has been a hero for quite a long time that maybe he was just paranoid. Others thought that maybe he was a hybrid that required the extra support of a hardened shell around him, like a slime hybrid or maybe a zombie.

Grian thinks it's for the energy it carries. The man is known for his amazing redstone abilities, which is to say he lacks a real super power, much like Grian. Unlike Grian, StarVoid can create redstone contraptions on the fly like no other. Tiny, on-the-spot contraptions that can range anywhere from an explosive trap or a means of escape for himself and allies. Whether offense or defense, he has a redstone piece for it that nobody has ever been able to wrap their head around.

Grian shuffles a bit closer to the wall as the tall man walks right by him.

“How this will work is: you will go into the room one-by-one, or if you have a group, you will go together. You will be in front of a panel of heroes, you will state your name. It doesn't matter what name you give them, but please give them something. You will show them your power if you have one. If you don't, then just tell them why you are interesting and sent an invitation. After that, you will be sent into another room surrounded by one-way glass. This is where you will be given a challenge to complete. It is not about success, but how to go about the situation. All the scenarios are different and not all of them are about fighting. If you have any questions, please ask me now. Otherwise, we will be getting started.” He finished his speech stopping back at the front of the line next to the plain white door he originally came out of.

Nobody raised their hand, which Grian was very relieved of. He really just wanted to get this all over already.

Nodding his head, StarVoid opened the door, holding it open for the first person in line. After they walked through, the door shut behind them leaving everyone in line deathly quiet staring at the closed door.

Grian sighed looking up and down the line realizing that he was toward the end. This is going to be a long day.

Chapter Text

He has been waiting for around two hours at this point. Just a few minutes ago he had waved goodbye to xB and hypnosis power guy (even with how much that guy talked, he never gave Grian his name. Whether it was because Grian never asked for it or he just didn't realize he'd never told him, Grian didn't know. But even though Grian never asked, he did feel it was a bit hypocritical to give out your partner's name, but never your own.)

xB didn't even spare him a glance when they departed from the line and through the door that was being held open for them by StarVoid. xBs partner, however, waved at Grian so hard he feared he'd sprain his wrist before they even got to show the heroes their powers.

No sound ever came through the door no matter how hard Grian tried to listen. He was really left in the dark about what this audition was truly going to look like for himself. While yes, StarVoid had told everyone what was going to be expected of them, Grian doubted that he was giving everyone the full rundown of what was beyond that door.

He had seen dozens of people go through the door already and none of them had come back. There must be another exit, Grian assumes as to not tell the rest of them what the audition was like.

Nobody ever talked about the auditions when they were over. Clearly not all 50 people here were going to get hired, and these auditions weren't the most rare event. Yet when Grian tried to look up what others went though in the audition nobody had even written an article. It was possible that there was fine print on the back of the invitation contracting people into silence, Grian never looked. But it was odd that nobody even tried to talk about it.

Grian sighed, looking up from his feet he silently counted the rest of people in line behind himself. Including himself there were only six people left. And seems that those last five were a group as well judging by how they were talking to each other. They had been since the beginning, jeering each other and laughing. They hadn't even attempted to even acknowledge Grians presence, which was fine by him. (He had never seen them before, out in the streets. He's not sure how they got invited but intuition tells him this is the first and last time he will see this group.)

With nothing else to look at he went back to staring at his shoes and waiting patiently. If he was being honest with himself he was expecting to be waiting much longer than just two hours. With the amount of people that were here waiting he was expecting to wait at least an hour for each group. Thinking back, that was kind of a dumb. How would they get through all those people if everyone got a full hour?

Interrupting his trail of thought, the door next to him abruptly opened slightly startling Grian into taking a step back. Looking up he stares through the opaque purple visor of StarVoid. And while Grian can't see a single thing past the visor of the helmet, he gets the distinct feeling that he's getting laughed at. He quickly stands up straighter, rolling his shoulders back, Grian rests his hand on his bow and smiles back slightly embarrassed. Hopefully his chances haven been ruined by that small lapse in concentration.

“Your turn! Come in and stand on the ‘x’ on the floor.” He gestured for Grian to follow him. As he passes the threshold of the door frame, StarVoid closes the door behind him.

Looking around the room he was immediately drawn to the mighty tall ceilings. The whole room was about the size of a chapel with white walls and floor. But the ceiling was made of purples and magentas in a ‘A’ frame which made Grians wings twitch. There was a joist that would be just perfect to perch on.

Shaking his head at such a thought, Grian took in the rest of the room. Opposite the door he just entered thought was a semicircle panel of tables, built up like a lecture hall. The first row sitting on ground level, then three more rising behind that. There appeared to be around 20 well known heroes sitting behind this panel in various states of boredom. To the right of the heroes table was a wall half built with a one way glass window. A door was set in the center, shut. The room beyond the door and window is completely shrouded in black shadows. It was impossible to even tell how big the room even was.

Grian swallowed thickly, he has a good idea what happens beyond that door. His last step. His final challenge. He just has to get through this interview and hope whatever challenge is behind that door isn't something impossible. He purposefully turns his head away from the mysterious room to look back at the heroes, some of them staring at him as he walks to his spot marked on the floor.

Grian only recognized a few by name, mostly because those were the ones he'd been in scuffles with before. This included the hero Tek, famous for his flame abilities. He's also a blaze hybrid and while most blaze have some sort of fire ability, Tek isn't harmed by any fire either. His flame abilities are also abnormally strong as well. He's a strong adversary and has made his disdain for vigilantes quite well known.

Sitting next to Tek was Queen of Hearts. He was busy playing with his infamous deck of cards he's never been seen without. Amazingly QoH is reported to not actually have a super power, just an impressive aim in card throwing. Grian would know, that was a fight he almost didn't walk away from. And even though he did, he had the scars to prove that those cards were without-a-doubt sharpened somehow.

Sitting in the top row in the further seats possible were Minos and Aphrodite. Grian, personally, has never had to fight them as they were both very vocal about their support for vigilantes. They never have actively tried to fight a vigilante, though they have been known to give those who hurt a few to many civilians a stern talking to.

Minos has the ability to control mobs and other undead beings. (She herself is said to be a zombie hybrid, which does bring some interesting ethics into play about the nature of her ability but Grian chooses not to think about it too hard.)

Aphrodite is just…unimaginable. When he uses his power, you just overlook him. His face is completely unimaginable. Some say they see the most beautiful face they could ever imagine, while others report that they see the most horrific, eldritch face they've ever seen. The lucky ones say they see nothing at all.

At the moment Grian just sees some guy with glasses and dyed green hair talking with a red headed zombie hybrid. He hopes that it stays that way too.

Finally, the only other hero Grian recognizes sits in the center of them all on the bottom row: HotGuy himself buffing his nails completely ignoring the rest of the room. He had his feet propped up on the table leaning so far back in his chair even Grian was worried he was about to fall.

Scoffing silently to himself, Grian sees himself to the ‘x’ on the floor like he was told. He was around twenty feet away from the heroes in the dead center of the room, the highest peak of the roof directly above him. He watches quietly as StarVoid walks around the table to take his seat next to HotGuy, pushing his feet off the table with a huff.

HotGuy grunts dropping his nail buff and glaring at the masked hero. Not even turning his head to look at him, StarVoid picks up a clip board before addressing the room. HotGuy crosses his arms over his chest finally looking past the table seeing who was on the floor now. His eyebrows raise over his glasses realizing who he was looking at. Grian smirked.

“Alright! Our next auditiontee is a vigilante that most of us probably know.” StarVoid says getting everyone's attention. All of them stop their conversations, focusing on Grian in the center of the room.

Grian wouldn't call himself a nervous guy, especially not here doing what his goal has always been, but he watches as all of their eyes collect looking behind him at his wings. Unconsciously he ruffles them, pulling them in tighter behind his back. His grip on his bow tightens slightly, willing their eyes off of them. He shifts from foot to foot noting that several eyes follow him.

“Please state your name,age and any abilities.” StarVoid asks, writing on his clipboard while keeping his head facing Grian.

“I don't have a vigilante name…” Grian starts. He hesitates before looking over to HotGuy. “But some have chosen to call me PeskyBird.” He smiles sweetly at HotGuy who just scoffs and rolls his eyes. “I’m 24 and as for powers, the only thing I have is my hybridity. My wings are powerful and last I checked I can carry as much as 200 extra pounds of weight. And while it's not a power, I am very good with my bow and arrow.” Grian pulls his bow over his head to show off its craftsmanship. He doesn't remember where he got it, but it's the only one he has ever used.

A few heroes lean on their table to catch a closer look, including HotGuy who leans the furthest trying to peek the closest . Grian pulls it back to his chest, noticing him getting a bit to close. It's the only bow he has, he doesn't want the hero getting ideas if he likes the look of it. Getting the hint, HotGuy leans back uncrossing his arms, he's looking at Grian a little more interested now.

“Why did you choose vigilantism?” The hero Tek spoke up after everyone watched him put his bow back over his head. He was looking at Grian with interest, a pen in his hand writing on a notepad in front of himself. “It's illegal, yet you still chose to put yourself on the streets. You could have hurt people.”

Grian had prepared himself for this question. Of course being in a room full of heroes this question was going to be brought up at some point. With a calm breath Grian started to give his thought out, yet mostly fabricated, sob story.

“When I was little I was saved by a vigilante during the Mycillian war. The villains and heroes had been getting closer and closer to my family's farm for a few years, then finally in the middle of the night they were right overhead. The brutal fright showed up so quickly it was too late to escape. My wings were too small at the time so I just ran trying to dodge the rubble best I could. While running away from my burning home a vigilante known as Crow swooped from the skies and picked me up flying to me to safety.” That part was true. But after Crow swooped down to grab Grian, he then turned and dive bombed to grab his sister as well with his other hand. But the heroes didn't have to know that much.

“After being saved by him, I couldn't see myself as anything except a vigilante. And while I could have applied to be a hero, that would’ve taken years. If I could do even half of what Crow did for me, then I would consider myself a true hero. I wanted to help as soon as possible.” Again, not particularly untrue. Just very exaggerated. He's sure that Crow had played a part in his want to be a vigilante, but he also has some pretty big other motivations. At least three if he's counting right.

“So what changed your mind, PeskyBird?” QoH asked, eyes flicking up from the house of cards he was building. “You said the man who rescued you was a vigilante, why become a hero at all then?”

Fantastic! Another question he had prepared for.

“Well, to be honest it wasn't really the biggest priority to me until I met HotGuy.” Grian smiled at HotGuy who looked at him interested. “We have complementary skills and I just found out he recommended me for this position through the invitation. And while I'm happy to be helping people anyway I can, doing it legally would be a big plus.” HotGuy rolled his eyes, leaning his head into it, and huffed when Grian mentioned the recommendation.

That whole explanation was very false, but deciding it was very fun to rile up HotGuy, Grian continued, “I’d be happy to be paired up with anyone, but it's nice to be noticed by The HotGuy you know?” He finished condescendingly, batting his eyelashes.

Grian heard several heroes snicker at HotGuy as he spluttered his disagreement. He gestured wildly toward Grian standing from his chair.

“I would never! Like I said last night, I had nothing to do with that! You- you pesky bird! I don't know who would ever recommend you but it wouldn't be me! I was trying to arrest you! You- you bird-brained vigilante! ” He said with annoyance. Grian just chuckled at his anguish over something so small.

“Woah, calm down HotHead.” Minos smirked while at the same time Tek spoke up.

“You met with him last night?” Tek asked, confused.

HotGuy paused his rant to look over at his fellow hero, still standing. His face morphed into a flustered stare, like he was caught with his hand in the cookie jar.

“I- I thought he was going to turn himself in! He's a vigilante! I didn't know he was going to be here today!” He tried to defend himself, but gave up flopping back into his chair heavily, crossing his arms over his chest.

“Alright…” StarVoid started drawing out the word. “We are definitely going to be having a conversation about going after vigilanties without informing us.” StarVoid spoke quietly to the ruffled hero next to him, awkwardly looking between Grian and HotGuy. “Let's just move on from whatever that was. I think we know all we need to know, unless anyone has any more questions?” Grian glanced around the room along with the heroes. Nobody spoke up, causing StarVoid to nod his head, shuffling his papers into a neat stack.

“Okay then. We can move to the last part of the audition. That being The Room.” The way StarVoid said the word made Grian believe the words were meant to be capitalized. It got everyone's attention the way he said it. The mood shifted from informal and friendly to a little more serious in nature.

Grian looked to the wall with the one way glass. He doesn't know what's beyond those doors, but whatever it is it's his last challenge before getting hired. He can't mess this up. He won't.

“You will walk into the room then proceed to the center. Await instructions from there. Understood?” All of the heroes stood up from their chairs shuffling over to the observation window. Grian gets the hint and makes his way to the door as well. StarVoid meets him there grasping the handle and before he opens the door he leans close to Grian.

“The trial will begin when the lights turn on. The Room will take the shape of its own trial to put you though. Now, I have no way of truly knowing what The Room will end up looking like. But if I had to guess, I'd say make sure you can fly quickly.” Grian nods confidently. If all he had to do was fly quickly, then this will be easy.

Nodding back, StarVoid opens the door and steps back.

Grian takes his first steps into the pitch black room. He's not quite sure where the true center is as the light that bleeds in from the first room only shows about three or four feet but after taking around 15 steps, Grian stops. The door behind him closes with a soft click, leaving him in complete darkness.

He tries to look around himself, eyes adjusting and readjusting trying to catch a glimpse of anything. His ear feathers ruffle, working overtime listening for any sound. Nothing. There is nothing to see or hear leaving Grian to reach up and grip his bow.

Suddenly, Grian's eyes were assaulted with pure white and he felt a wave of heat hit his body. He shuts his eyes, stumbling back slightly before catching himself. He freezes, slowly opening his eyes, blinking rapidly to adjust to the sudden overwhelm of his senses. Finally blinking away the pain, he takes a look at his surroundings.

His eyes involuntarily widen, stunned.

This room is impossible. He's standing on what looks to be around a five foot by five foot platform completely surrounded by lava. Looking at the edges of the platform he sees his heels are mere inches from the edge. He jumps forward with a startled chirp, clamping his mouth shut as soon as the noise reaches his ears. Grian glances back around the room overwhelmed, noticing the room itself is approximately the same size as the one he just came from, but when he looks up he can't see the ceiling. There's just shapes coming from the walls further up, randomly, acting as if they were trying to block his view. He can't see an ending.

The windows were gone, replaced with sheer white concrete. Grian assumed he was going to be watched and judged but now he isn't quite sure. He felt his heart beating thickly in his chest. This was significantly more dangerous than he thought it was going to be. Is he just expected to live? They don't need to watch because they'll if he lives, then he lives. If he dies…well.

In all the possibilities he thought up, most were centered around a simulated villain fight. Something that was dangerous, but part of the job. Bad guys with knives? No problem, he has the high ground with his wings. Heroes with powers? Not an issue since he's trained. Villains trying to take over the city? He can talk his way out of that no problem.

But being surrounded by lava? One wrong move and he's gonna be seriously hurt.

At the moment though, he was safe on the solid platform. The only sound being the popping molten rock and the feeling of the rolling heat.

Okay. Okay this is fine. Whatever trial this was he would pass it no problem. Expect the unexpected and all that. Breathing in the scalding air, Grian spins in circles taking it all in while trying to figure out what his objective is. There's no notes or signs telling him what to do.

Huffing Grian looks back up, puzzled. He starts to tap his foot, getting increasingly annoyed at the lack of direction. His feathers ruffled in irritation. Pulling his wings around him he started running his clawed hand through the feathers coaxing them to settle. Sighing, Grian twists a feather into place.

Suddenly pausing, Grian remembers the words of StarVoid. Of course! He pulls his bow from around his shoulders then spreads his wings to their full span. Taking a deep breath he propels them down, throwing himself into the air.

As soon as his feet leave the platform he feels something wrap harshly around his wrist. Surprised, he stutters in the air, losing some ground. Catching himself, he hovers and brings his arm up to his face. Where normally would be nothing but his long black shirt, there's what looks like a normal wristwatch. Except this one is counting down from ten minutes.

His eyes widening, Grian looks back down at the platform. It's gone, completely engulfed by lava that he abruptly realizes is quickly rising up beneath himself.

Shit!

Grian thrusts his wings downward in shock, shooting himself further into the air narrowly avoiding his boot being melted off his foot.

Releasing a shaky breath, Grian rises his head to look at the shapes above himself. Where there used to be a seemingly endless ceiling with oddly shaped blockages there's now several pillars that look as if they were taken straight from Rome stretched from one side to the other. They left only gaps just barely big enough for Grians body to fit though. Not the worst odds he's ever faced, but difficult.

Looking down Grian noticed that the lava was definitely getting closer quicker then he felt comfortable with. He raised his wrist to glance at the too-tight watch, ‘9:30’ it read. Okay. Okay that's fine. He can last nine minutes and thirty seconds of just dodging random pillars. Easy.

Flying around the pillars Grian kept a close eye on both the steadily rising molten lava and the timer. He definitely was feeling the heat. Sweat was already starting to drip down his forehead and the back of his neck. He felt his lungs protest the seething air along with the excursion from dodging pillars that never seemed to end. Randomly appearing with barely a gap enough to fit both him and his wings.

Smoothly swerving between too rough pillars pulling his wings in close, Grian huffed a breath. He was really starting to rethink his desire for this job.

Dodging a few more pillars, Grian was greeted with a few hundred feet of empty space. He paused if only to just catch his breath. He was used to flying quickly, but the twisting and turning was definitely getting to him. He didn't have too much time cause the lava was still rising, so he must continue.

With a final short sigh, he covered the empty space quickly. Curiously he was met with a ceiling. A completely white, solid blockage, ceiling. He couldn't continue going further up. Hovering Grian raised his arms to push against the faux wall he knew it was. But it didn't budge.

Nervously glancing back down Grian grimaced at the lava was persistently getting closer and closer.

He started to bang on the ceiling listening for any false walls or for any empty space beyond. There was nothing. Just a consistent solid ‘thunk’ throughout the whole structure. Grian let his arms fall haughty.

Think! Think!

Grian flew down a way glancing around the walls for any sort of clue. His eyes shooting between each wall and the lava getting steadily closer and closer. He was starting to get a bit panicked. He scanned the shrinking room as he was forced to fly closer to the ceiling again. Then finally out of the corner he spotted a single red mark on the wall about a foot down from the ceiling.

He flew closer and upon inspection he recognized it immediately. A target. Quickly he flew back from the circular target, nocking an arrow. He had to pull his feet up away from the lava as he leveled the arrow then finally let it fly true, striking its home in the center of the target. The ceiling disappeared as soon as the arrow stuck. In between the blink of his eyes, it was gone as if it never existed.

Grian didn't have time to dwell on this as the lava was only a few feet below him. Racing higher away from the molten rock, he noticed more and more targets appearing on the walls. He reached around grabbing a few more arrows with his one hand nocking one at a time while holding the rest. Scanning the walls and releasing the arrow at any hint of red targets.

This was significantly easier, Grian realizes. Fly up, scan the walls, find the target, shoot, continue. He was able to gain quite a ways away from the rising lava. Of course his happiness can’t last forever as he slowly watched the pillars start to show up again.

But now not only was he having to hit the targets to continue moving upwards but now he's having to go back to scraping his way around obstacles. It was harder to find the targets around the columns making his lead on the lava disappear as almost as quickly as he got it. Was it rising faster?

Catching a quick glance at his wrist he read the time: ‘1:08.’

Has it already been nine minutes? Grian can feel his wings getting tired everytime he changes his directions on such short notice. But while this was an interesting challenge, Grian wouldn't say that it was incredibly hard. It made sense for a hero he supposed. Having to dodge a weave through obstacles while keeping steady, quick aim. So while Grian is struggling only slightly, he can certainly keep this up for a while.

Then he heard it. A rumbling sound vibrates the air around him. Not stopping, Grian continues to fly higher while dodging a shooting arrows as he needs to. Looking around when he can, he sees it. A giant crack starting even below the lava traveling up and spider webbing onto the pillars he's been dodging. He looks around to see another target. Without thinking he lets an arrow go. He watches as the arrow hits its mark as a crack splits the target in half. His arrow gets wedged in the wall, widening the crack sending more fractures to spread.

His eyes widen and heart drops as he watches the fissure run along until the pillars above him start to crumble.

Oh. Oh fantastic.

Banking to the left, Grian dodged a chunk of the concrete and wall falling past him into the lava below, sinking below and disappearing. His eyes widened almost comically. Okay, maybe now was panic time.

He swiftly brought his wrist up to check the clock. 45 seconds, that's all he had left. Rubble was falling onto his shoulders and dusting his hair. Jumping back in alarm right as a hunk of the concrete fell past his front.

Looking up he saw that there were still faux ceilings blocking his path and targets on the walls. Scowling, Grian clutched his bow tighter while pulling more arrows out of his quiver. Now this was a challenge.

Dashing past a falling pillar, Grian went over, pulled his wings in close to go under, then shot back up around the plummeting rocks. He kept an eye on the walls shooting anything that looked even vaguely like a target. Shot after shot went out but none of them seemed to be the last one. The ceiling remained as did the ever rising lava.

Spotting a much larger falling pillar, Grian raced over landing on it best he could. While he was losing height, he was able to focus on the walls for longer. He was snapping his head every which way but there were no more targets he could see. There were tens of his arrows sticking out of the walls, and no target that he could see was left unmarked.

Frustrated, Grian hopped back into the air feet before the lava consumed his makeshift perch.

Columns continued to rain down around him as he fought to gain back the height he'd lost. Later Grian would recall how the masses falling around him seemed infinite. Just seeming to spawn, then fall. At the moment Grian could care less about the logistics of it, he wanted out.

He could see the ceiling above him, not 30ft away when he finally miscalculated. Swerving too far left, clipping his wing on a smaller chunk of rubble. But that was all it took at that speed for Grian to lose his balance, flipping him with his back to the roof and face to the hot hot lava practically upon him.

Time seemed to slow as he glanced around himself seeing that he was put in the direct line of a large falling pillar. He watched with wide eyes between the closing in lava and the concrete that got closer and closer with nowhere for him to go.

He squeezed his eyes shut feeling the room get hotter and hotter. He could feel his heart in his throat, beating wildly while his wings fluttered between keeping him up or seizing with fear. He waited for the inevitable.

And he waited.

And waited.

Slowly Grian peaked his eyes open. It was pitch black. As if he'd never opened his eyes at all. He was still on his stomach, his arms by his face as if to protect himself. Bow and arrows still in hand, he scratched lightly at the floor feeling if it was real.

It was. Slowly he lowered his wings, pained from working overtime and being hit with rubble.

Gathering his strength past the confusion, he pulled his arms underneath himself sitting up. Taking stock of his body, he felt tired, and a bit sore. But otherwise as if nothing happened at all. He caught the sight of a soft light flashing on his wrist. Sitting fully he raises his arm to read the flashing ‘0:00’.

As soon as he acknowledged the timer, it stopped blinking. Grian felt the grip release his wrist, no longer attached. He continues to stare at his wrist, even though without the soft light he can't see anything there.

The room was silent, until a soft click was sounded directly in front of him. His head shot up to the sound as a door opened, illuminating the darkness around Grian.

Grians mouth opened in a soft 'o' as none other than StarVoid stood dead center of the doorway. Highlighted with a halo effect from the bright lights of the room behind him. He held out his hands in front of himself, gloved palms out toward Grian.

"You're hired.” He spoke softly, his voice wavering a bit. “When can you start?"

Chapter Text

Grian opened his eyes slowly, blinking away sleep. He felt warm, which wasn't too particularly uncommon when he woke up, but it was also soft. Which was distinctly not a feature that his beat up old couch typically offered.

Sluggishly he flipped over onto his back, not the most comfortable position with wings, and looked at the ceiling. Turning his head, eyes catching on the decor of the room he was in. Lots of white and purple. A dresser was against the wall directly across from the foot of the bed with a tv mounted on the wall above that. Currently it was off. The ceiling was tall, painted white with a small fancy light hanging over the bed, also correctly off.

Up against the wall his bed was posted up against were heavy drapes that cut off his view of the outside. It shrouded the room in light shadows, still though, the sunlight persisted in beams of light coming from under the mauve colors curtains. The walls were painted lilac in color with basic mass printed art hung up aesthetically.

Confused, Grian sat up causing the overly soft blankets to pile around his bare waist. Looking down he saw a bed of white sheets and comforters with a few plum and periwinkle fuzzy blankets tossed over. The carpet was sheer white with circular rug matching the drapes centered under the bed. His bow and quiver was leaned neatly against his bedside table within arms reach.

Slowly the confusion on Grians face was overtaken by a wide smile. Oh. That wasn't a dream. That wasn't a dream!

Looking to his right Grian caught sight of the two boxes he had brought from his old apartment the late afternoon before. He had sat them against the wall next to the door before promptly diving into the formally neat bed, forming the blankets into a semi-nest like shape, before passing out before even touring the flat he had been moved into.

After StarVoid had offered him the job, Grian stood up shakily. He remembers how his hands shook while putting his arrows away and pulling his bow over his head. Shaking his head slightly, he squared his shoulders and walked through the door as StarVoid stepped to the side letting him pass.

The Heroes were all still crowded around the window but had shifted to watch as Grian walked though. But none of them said a word. Grian paused to look over them all, some had wide eyes with slightly dropped jaws, while others looked pale. A few had all three. HotGuy was in front of them all closest to Grian, and even though he still had the dark sunglasses on, Grian got the impression that he was speechless. (Sitting in his bed now Grian smirks at the idea that the HotGuy could ever be truly “speechless.”)

Tilting his head to the side, Grian furrowed his eyebrows. Why was everyone so tense? Did he just barely pass or something? Surely this was just one of many trials they had seen that day, maybe they were tired. Maybe they weren't expecting so much action or something. Or something…

HotGuy opened his mouth as if he was about to say something. But he paused, as if searching for his words. When he came up with none he huffed and crossed his arms over his chest, looking away.

Grian felt StarVoid place his hand onto his shoulder then. Looking away from HotGuy and over his shoulder to the masked man, Grian saw him shifting slightly in place. Swaying from foot to foot with poorly hidden anxiety. Why was everyone acting so weird? He had just survived! Shouldn't they be celebrating?

Clearing his throat quietly, StarVoid addressed Grian.

“It would be an asset to have you on the team, PeskyBird. You may take a few days to decide, but I ask that you please highly consider joining. You would be–”

“If I say yes right now how quickly could I move into the tower?” Grian interrupted StarVoid. Whatever was happening here could wait. Grian was tired, and already been offered the job. No point in drawing this out when he already knew his response.

Taken-aback, StarVoid dropped his hand from Grians shoulder. Grian turned around to face StarVoid properly.

“Well- Well I don't see why it wouldn't be as soon as you'd like.” He lifted his head as if looking to the other heroes, before looking back down at Grian. “There's just some paperwork to do but there's already a few flats ready so... I- I assume you’ll be paired up with HotGuy, so you'll be roomed next to him. If you have any things you need moved we can send someone out to pack them for you.”

“That will not be necessary. How about I grab my things and come back in an hour. That way you can do your paperwork, and I can get my stuff here?” Grian suggested.

StarVoid hesitated for a moment before agreeing and leading Grian to the exit. After grabbing his stuff, signing a few documents and being given a few temporary passes, Grian was led to his new apartment flat.

StarVoid had told Grian that someone would be over in the morning to give him an official tour of the building. He also said if Grian needed anything, just across the hall was HotGuy. (Grian had bent to the side to look around StarVoid who had been standing in the doorway to peek at HotGuys door. Surprisingly, the only signifier that it was his place was a golden plaque with his name etched into it. Grian feels slightly disappointed; expecting something more comical and brash like the hero himself. Damn.)

Grian pulls himself from the memories of the night before, shaking his head side to side pulling himself out of his lackluster nest. Feet planted on the cozy carpet, he hoisted himself up letting the sheets fall away. Letting out a groan he raised his arms stretching his back and wings, which flared out framing the ornate hanging light.

Relaxing his body he realized he felt kind of gross. When he fell into bed yesterday he only removed his shirt and boots, leaving the rest of the clothes he had been wearing during the whole audition on.

Glancing down at the pristine white bedside table, there was an alarm clock currently displaying ‘8:23 AM.’

Woah he hasn't woken up that early in years. He'd normally sleep all day and go out at night patrolling. Being a vigilante was a full time job after all and he tried to think of it more like a night shift. Hopefully with being a legal hero he can patrol during the day now.

Grian shuffled forward to the boxes stacked by the door. Pulling off the top box labeled ‘taxes’ (it was just a box full of random sentimental things he kept around. He labeled it ‘taxes’ so none of the heroes would judge him when he walked into the building. Everyone has taxes. Not everyone has a stuffed pigeon named Moon.) Grian paced it next to the bottom box labeled ‘clothes.’ This box was half empty. He didn't own much; didn't need much.

Pulling out a new set of clothes he turned to the door opposite of the boxes. Walking over and opening the door, Grian was greeted with a huge bathroom. Boasting both a shower stall and jetted bathtub, a two bowl sink with a toilet and shelving at the end. It was fully furnished with toothbrushes, toothpaste, towels, toilet paper and when Grian opened the drawers under the sinks, razors, pads and other ‘feminine’ products like makeup wipes and brushes.

Grian scoffed. As if he wouldn't need a brush and makeup wipes. Do they even know who he is? He literally slept in yesterday's makeup and his bun was looking extra messy, and not in an aesthetic way. While logically he knew that the heroes didn't know who would be accepted into the association, but there was no need to hide these products under the sink as if they were dirty.

Sighing, Grian took the wipes and brush, setting them on the sink counter. He reached his arms up untying his hair letting it fall just over his shoulders. He lazily used a few makeup wipes to take off the smudged eyeliner and mascara he was wearing. Turning to the shower, Grian awkwardly fussed with each knob until he figured out which one turned the water hot. When it was nice and warm, Grian took off the rest of his clothes and threw them into the empty basket by the door, then hopped into the shower.

He practically melted. Usually his showers were cold, so this was a nice change of pace.

There were two different kinds of shampoo, conditioner and body wash. Reading the label of each, one was supposed to smell like ‘fireside brawl’ while the other was meant to smell like ‘strawberry sunshine.’ Smelling them both, he notes that ‘fireside brawl’ smells distinctly masculine and musty while ‘strawberry sunshine’ was actually nice. Needless to say, he would be smelling like sunshine, thank you very much!

After he had finished up he dried off, redressed and brushed out his hair, pulling into a low bun at the base of his skull. He lazily fixed a few out-of-place feathers, pulling the ones that were ready and tossing them into the trash next to the toilet.

Now he feels much better. Looking in the mirror Grian makes sure he looks presentable. Today didn't feel much like a makeup day so he just made sure his outfit was relatively nice; a black long sleeve shirt tucked into black loose pants. A rope belt cinched them at his waist, also black. Ah yes, his signature look: black-on-black-cause-thats-what-he-could-afford. Classic.

Twisting to look at his backside, he made sure the hole for his wings was clipped correctly. He wasn't sure if this tour would involve a lot of movement but just in case he wanted to be prepared. All of his clothes were adapted to fit his wings well, so he would have no issue flying at the drop of a hat.

Leaving the bathroom Grian continued to explore the rest of the flat. Directly out of his bedroom Grian sees a large kitchen with the front door he had entered from the afternoon previous next to it. The kitchen looked to be stocked; if the bananas and apples sitting on the counter meant anything. It was completely furnished with a large fridge, oven, stove and plenty of little gadgets like a toaster sitting across the counters. A bar counter separated the kitchen from the connected living room.

Looking up he sees extremely tall ceilings with joists stretching from each side of the walls. Light fixtures were hanging from them over a large ‘L’ shaped white couch. A coffee table centered on the mulberry colored eye shaped rug the couch also sat on. The couches were facing an electric fireplace with a wide tv mounted above.

Grian walks over to the couch running his hand across the cushions testing the plushness of it. It's much to be expected; very soft.The whole place is pretty much what Grian expected. It all screamed ‘staged’ as if it was pulled straight from a ‘Decorate Like a Hero’ magazine. Filled with shades of purple and pure white, the colors of the Hero Association and Hero Tower. Any small details like outlet rims and fixtures were plated in faux gold.

Looking up from the couch Grian notices light seeping from some large curtains hanging stretching the width of the whole wall. Assuming there was a window behind the huge drapes, Grian grabs them, tossing them open only to be stunned.

Where Grian expected a few windows or possibly some french doors he was met with a wall completely made of glass. A large window from floor to ceiling with two glass doors in the center leading out to a roofed balcony.

Excited, Grian opened the doors stepping out in the cool morning air. He placed his hands on the railing leaning over looking at the city. He could see everything from here, or at least it felt like it.

Grian breathed in deep, the fresh air filling his lungs. He smiled widely while scanning over the city. This was nice. He’ll be the first to admit things were moving a little fast. This time yesterday he was getting ready for the audition, and now here he was moved into the hero tower awaiting his first official day as a hero. Or well, hero sidekick. He supposed he wasn't expecting the heroes to be accommodating this quickly.

Sighing, he drops his head to look over the cars driving under him. He can't forget his original objective, but the perks of this job were quite something. He can't remember a time he felt this peaceful and well rested. His wings fluttered in jealousy of the wind. What he wouldn't give to go on a listless flight in the morning breeze. Alas, he can't indulge in his avian instincts like that, lest he be ridiculed. He's surprised he'd even made a nest last night. He must have been more tired than he thought.

A knock from behind him interrupted his idle morning. Sighing for a final time, he pushed off the railing walking back into his new flat. Peace can’t last forever after all, jobs require actually working. Lame.

Opening his door Grian is greeted with a familiar black, blue and orange suited man. HotGuy stands with his hand still raised as if he was about to knock again. His face is set in a dazzlingly bright smile that doesn't make it to his eyes.

Standing next to HotGuy is a shorter, thicker man in a blue shirt with a white lab coat. He has black trimmed hair and thick rimmed glasses. There's a lanyard around his neck with a badge attached but it's flipped over, so Grian can’t read a name. The man is also completely ignoring his surroundings, furiously writing on a clipboard with a solid stack of paper clipped to it.

Grian looks back up to HotGuy who had dropped his arm and is now bouncing back and forth seemingly excited.

“You ready for the tour, PeskyBird?” He asks. Though he knew HotGuy was putting on an act, Grian rolled his eyes.

“Of course, just let me get some shoes and I’ll be all good.” Grian walks away leaving the door open. His boots were not far and after zipping them up he meets the two outside his door, shutting it softly.

Finally, the man with the clipboard addresses Grian, though still not looking away from his papers.

“Hello, my name is Cub, and I am the Public Relations manager for HotGuy and now, you.” He lifts a few papers, squints at its contents, looks up to Grian then back down again. He scribbles something down before looking back up. Grian folds his wings close as Cub rakes his eyes over his body. Slowly he circles Grian silently, every once in a while scribbling something down.

“Those wings are real, correct?” Cub asks in a way that didn't sound like a question, more like a happy observation.

“Y-Yes…” Grian responds. He knows many people don't believe they are real but at this point it should be pretty obvious.

Grian nervously looks over at the HotGuy who is leaning against the opposite wall checking his nails looking happily unfazed. Cub finishes his scan by walking back to Grians front then leaning in close to his face. Grian leans back as he gets closer.

“Do you wear contacts or glasses?” He asks, still scanning Grians face with scrutiny.

“Uhh, no.”

“You were wearing makeup yesterday, but not now. Why?” He pulls back, tapping his pen on his papers.

“Didn't feel like it?”

“Alright, but you know how to apply makeup?”

“Yeesss?” Grian replies tilting his head. Why would he wear it if he didn't know how to apply it?

Nodding his head he leans away from Grian. Glancing down, Grian sees Cubs clipboard which has a few upside down pictures compiled of himself in the hallway from yesterday. There were multiple pen marks circling parts of himself with illegible writing next to them. He wasn't aware there had been cameras in that hallway while he'd been waiting. He supposed that the receptionist wasn't lying when she said the audition had begun at that moment.

“I can work with this.” Cub said suddenly, causing Grian to snap his head away from his snooping. “Alright, both of you come to my office after the tour please.” And with that, he turns away from Grian and HotGuy. He strides down the hallway, stopping halfway down in his tracks. “And Scar, be nice to him.” disappearing around a bend, still not looking up from his clipboard.

HotGuy looks up from his nails to Cub, scoffing, but Cub is gone before he strings a sentence together. Confused, Grian stands back up straight smoothing his clothes down, even though they weren't much ruffled. He feels weirdly violated from being looked over like that.

“What was that about? And what about a scar?” Grian asks, putting his hands in his pockets and turning to face HotGuy.

HotGuy huffs in what could be called a laugh before dropping his arms to his side. He shrugs his shoulders before turning down the way Cub went pushing off the wall. Getting the hint, Grian follows.

“Well first of all, you are now the official sidekick for the most well known, hottest, and bestest hero!” HotGuy said dramatically, throwing his arms out to his side narrowly missing Grian, who let out a squawk as he dodged.

“Huh, funny. I didn't know I was going to be Teks sidekick. That's cool though.” Grian quipped, smiling cheekily.

HotGuy dropped his jaw in offense pointing to himself. “No! Me!”

Grian threw his head back cackling at HotGuys dramatics. He leaned his hand against the wall to help support himself as he laughed, having to stop walking to catch his breath. HotGuy pauses his walking to huff as he watches Grian with his arms crossed tapping his foot.

When Grian raised his hand to wipe away a few tears, he saw HotGuy was smirking with soft eyes. But when he noticed Grian was looking his way, he threw on a grimace turning his head away. Interesting.

“I always did think your name made you sound a bit like a prick. Good to know you actually are one, humble too.” Grian laughed as HotGuy huffed, rolling his eyes.

Still giggling quietly Grian reclaimed his composure continuing to walk down the hall. HotGuy sided up next to him, clearing his throat then continued to speak.

“Anyways,” He started pointedly, “Now that you are my partner-in-not-crime, Cub just needs to find a way to make you marketable.”

“Marketable?” Grian questions as they stop in front of an elevator, Hotguy presses the button as they both wait for its arrival.

“Well yeah. I’m on the front page of every magazine, I deliver press conferences twice a week, every news station has an hour dedicated to all the good deeds I've done.” The elevator dings opening, prompting both of them to walk in. HotGuy presses the lowest level button, then presses his thumb on a scanner next to the emergence button. The screen turns green, and the door's close. He looks down at Grian with boredom in his eyes. “And now you have just signed up for that as well.”

Oh. Grian looks down at his feet as the elevator starts to move. He didn't think about this aspect as hard as he probably should have.

“Are you saying I’m gonna be…a celebrity?” Grian asked quietly.

HotGuy looked at him like he was insane, tilting his head with his eyebrows raised as if what Grian said was ridiculous.

“Of course you are! Or well, Cub will make you one. You won’t with the way you look now.” Disregarding the insult, Grian shook his head.

“I didn't think of this when I auditioned…” He breathed.

“How did you- what do you mean! Almost everyone in line was trying to be my sidekick for fame. Are you telling me you were just there just to become a hero?”

“Well yes! Am I- Will I have to do all that? The press and stuff?” He asks nervously.

HotGuy looks incredulous, staring Grian down like he's trying to look for something. Seemingly not finding it, he scoffs, shaking his head, turning away from Grian.

“Ah the price of fame as a hero. Yes. You will have to come with me and be amicable and likable. I know that must be hard for you.”

Grian opens his mouth to respond before he's interrupted by the ‘ding’ of the elevator. The doors slide open and HotGuy hops out without waiting. The hallway is colored much like everything else in the Hero Tower: white walls, purple rolled out carpet running the whole length of the corridor. There are a few doors lining the hallway, but HotGuy walks past them continuing straight forward.

“We can continue this later. Let's just get on with the tour.” HotGuy continues to walk away as he speaks, bidding Grian to follow.

Grian walks next to HotGuy with his head up, but his mind somewhere else. While he knew that becoming HotGuys sidekick would probably come with some media attention, he now realizes he didn't completely think this whole operation through. Twice a week public appearances, magazine headlines, paparazzi following his every move. All that for maybe a few hours of archive access. He should've applied for a desk job. Too late now he supposes. He feels a bit dumb really.

He was a vigilante who helped people first and foremost, but getting noticed by the Hero Association was also a main factor. He didn't want to be famous. If he did, he would have just come out with a name and did some more high profile vigilante business; shown off his wings a bit and he'd probably have a fanbase at some point. But he stayed under the radar for a reason. He had no use for fame, and now he just threw that all away for a sidekick job. Ugh, great.

Shaking his hands out by his sides Grian purposely pushes the thoughts out of his head for a later freak out. He can deal with all of that later, preferably when he's alone. Trying to come up with a new train of thought he thinks back to what Cub had said as he left Grian alone with HotGuy.

Looking over to HotGuy, Grians eyes catch on the multiple scars that litter his face and exposed neck and arms. Some of them looked deep and old , while others were superficial and thin. Tilting his head Grian was trying to wrap his head around what Cub had said.

“Why did Cub call you that? ‘Scar’ I mean. Doesn't seem very nice from a PR guy.” He asked, pursing his lips.

HotGuy threw his head back with a bark of laughter.

“That's my name. My real name, not one of the many the media likes to guess. I swear if one more fan girl yells “Larry” when they see me I’m gonna quit. Do I even look like a ‘Larry’? I don't think so!” He rants.

“Shouldn't you not be telling me this?” Grian asks, confused. Which prompts HotGuy, or Scar, to look over at him with an equally confused expression.

“Why not? We are going to be hanging out with each other a lot more. You were going to learn it one way or another. That being said, Mr. Secrets,” He flips around while he's talking, walking backwards facing Grian. And while usually he would find this dangerous, Grian finds that it would be much funnier if he falls, so he lets him. “I know PeskyBird isn't your real name, or a vigilante name, so what is it huh?”

Grian smiles, shaking his head as he rolls his eyes debating on what to say. He doesn't want to give out his real name, but ‘PeskyBird’ was a bit of a mouth full. Nor did he want people to continuously call him ‘pesky’ all day. But Scar did have a point, they might as well get to know each other a bit if they now had to spend so much time together.

“My name is Grian.” He says but as the name catches Scars ears he trips over his feet falling flat onto the ground. Rolling onto his side with a groan, Grian laughs at his misfortune.

“What was that? There wasn't even a fold in the carpet!’ He giggles.

“I just… It's nothing. You- I Just… tripped. I guess.” Scar says softly. Grian stops laughing in that moment, sensing something is actually amiss. He takes a hesitant step toward the man on the ground but is stopped when Scar speaks again.
“Anyways! I trip over myself all the time, let's actually take that tour.” Scar pushes himself off the ground with a grand smile, brushing off invisible dust. Grian feels slightly unsettled at the complete 180 degrees in his demeanor. Not only had he already stopped laughing, but Scar completely changed the topic, walking away with a pep in his step, as if nothing had even happened. How odd.

Catching up with Scar, Grian listens as he explains with enthusiasm where some of the doors and connected hallways go. A few were just random offices and old storage rooms Grian has no interest in. At the end of the long hall they are greeted with tall grand doors. They have the Hero Association logo on each door creepily, in Grian opinion, watching them as Scar reaches to open the doors.

“This is our training room! It's basically our place to spar and hone our skill. Every hero has a little section made for their certain ability, which is why,” He paused as he moved to the side, letting Grian walk into the room. “This place is huge.”

Grian thought ‘huge’ was still an understatement. It was a whole warehouse, two, maybe three and like three airplane hangers all added together. It had two whole tennis and basketball courts, a complete gymnastics set up, weights and other gym equipment lined the walls. Hanging from the impossibly tall ceiling were hoops of various sizes (Grian fought the small shiver that ran through his wings remembering the events of yesterday. Maybe the smaller hoops could be for future Grian.) with pillars that stretched from ground to ceiling with tight ropes that bridged them.

On the floor there were yards and yards of tape sectioning off certain areas. Some were actually walled off while others were open empty spaces. There had to be at least 30 separated spaces, each with different things in the sectioned off spaces.

There were other heroes training in many different places. Some were in what Grian assumed to be their designated sections while others were using the community training equipment. None of them even turned their heads when HotGuy opened the door, keeping their heads down while working out.

It was almost too much to look at. Everywhere he turned there was something new to see. He felt his wings flutter softly when his eyes caught how at the very top of the ceiling there were beams that connected the pillars keeping the roof from collapsing. (If Grian had to guess, they were very far underground. It's the only way having an open space this huge wasn't a well known fact of the Hero Tower.) What a perfect place to perch! Wait. No!

Shaking his head, Grian looked at HotGuy who was also looking at him smiling. Upon being caught he snorted a laugh, gesturing his arm to the hoops.

“You can go fly for a bit if you want. I can see your wings itchin’ to.” He pointed to Grians wings, which were in fact still twitching without his knowledge.

Sucking in a breath Grian snapped his wings shut. Scars smiling face morphed into thinly veiled confusion. He dropped his hand tilting his head. Grian threw him a slightly strained smile.

“No thank you. I’m fine on the ground. I only fly when I need to, like in training or on patrol. I don't need to fly otherwise so I stick to the ground.”

Scars head somehow titled even more making him look like a puppy as his eyes went comically wide as well.

“I…didn't know Avians could…do that.” He replies. “I don’t think that's healthy…”

Taking a deep breath, Grian tries to settle down a bit. Relaxing his wings slightly so they weren't so high strung, giving the illusion of calm. It was his business and his business only on why he still doesn't flaunt his wings around. (A few years ago there was an act signed that gave avians and other hybrids more equality in the city server. But there were still plenty of purists out there, and with Grians wing type he has run into quite a few. No need to draw unwanted attention to yourself. It's just rude anyway really.)

“Don’t worry about it, SmallGuy. Why don't you just show me whichever section is yours?” Grian quipped, hoping to take the questions off him and just finish the tour.

“SmallGuy!” And it worked. “I’ll have you know I am quite tall! Above average, some would say.” Scar huffed, waving his hands around as he spoke. Grian broke out into a genuine smile. He could at least say this Hero was good entertainment.

Shaking his head, Scar turned on his heel leading Grian though the training room. Sometimes he'd stop or point out some other peoples sections. One of which was Teks, which was just an empty room surrounded in glass. HotGuy explained that it was blast and heat resistant, so he could practice whatever the Blaze wished without the fear of burning someone.

He sped past Minos’ area fast, as if the area scared him. Which, to be fair, was justifiable. It was a grass field with what looked to be bones covering the ground. Feeling a shiver up his spine, Grian chose to follow in Scars footsteps and speed past the Zombie hybrids training section.

In complete opposition to Minos’ area was Aphrodites. Fittingly right next to Minos’, this was an open concept library. The whole area had bookshelves absolutely stacked with books. When asked, Scar said he wasn't super sure what Aphrodite was practicing by having the library, but whenever he was in his comfy look chair reading, Scar decided to stay away just in case.

After a walk that seemed way too long they arrived in the center of the whole building. Grian was starting to rethink his wish not to fly around here. Finally, Scar stopped in front one of the large pillars holding up the roof. He turned to Grian with a wide, real looking smile, then gestured into the section off area.

Being the number one Hero did seem to have its perks, as Scars zone seemed to be at least a full baseball field. Each corner had a pillar with a tight rope stretched between them. At different levels there were targets of differing size, even the pillars themselves were painted with targets. Several of them had arrows sticking out of them, all bullseyes.

Grians fingered twitched to reach for his own bow that he left in his room. It looked to be an archer's dream. Usually he would just practice by flying around junkyards at night, and natural talents he supposed. (When he chose to become a vigilante a few years back he figured that if HotGuy could be that good with a bow, it must not be that hard. And he was right. As soon as he picked up the bow that he had found buried in the back of his closet, he had been a natural shot. Almost as good at accuracy as the Hero himself, not that he could ever get HotGuy to admit that.)

Scar looked at Grian with a smirk on his face. He threw his arms over his head with fake yawning.

“Yeah I know. Pretty cool. Very big and awesome, like me.” He was flexing his arms and stomach in a way that he tried to make look natural. All it made Grian do is want to throw up.

Suddenly a voice spoke from behind Grian, saving him from whatever this was.

“Birdy!” Okay maybe not save, but certainly anything is better than this. Grian turned around with a confused gaze as he recognized the accented voice of the hypnosis powered vigilante from yesterday. Not only him though, as his sidekick xB trailed lazily by his side. Behind them both an anxious looking Queen of Heart and ridged looking StarVoid rushing to catch up to the over enthusiastic Swede.

Finally finishing his fast paced journey to Grian, he pauses panting slightly. But nonetheless opens his mouth speaking much too quickly for Grian to catch everything he says. Seeing the blank look in his eyes, he takes a small huff of breath before starting over, much calmer and slower.

“Hi BirdMan! Long time no see yeah? Feels like just yesterday that you said we were all gonna be buddies! And look at us now!” He smiles brightly. Grian smiles back, though much smaller than the dark haired man.

“Keralis, don't scare our poor coworker.” xB said, elbowing him in the side. Finally, a name for the face. xB lifts his head a bit to look over at Grian, for the first time smiling at him. “Hey listen man I know I was a bit cold to you yesterday but thanks for believing in us yeah?” He takes his hand out of his pocket extending to Grian, who looks at it feeling a bit guilty. Was false encouragement that ended up working out still encouragement? He doesn't know, but he does know that these two remember him as a nice guy and that makes him feel bad.

Well, when in doubt, double down!

Grian raises his hand and takes xB lightly. He smiles kindly, taking a step closer to them both.

“Of course! I may have had to bail you guys out but you guys have got something interesting. I’m glad you guys made it and I look forward to working together in the future.” When he releases xBs hand he takes Keralis’, who ends up pulling him into a side hug much to his surprise. The small squawk he let out was between him and the thin air alone.

Finally being released he takes a step back directly into Scar, who was standing way too close. Tripping over his foot Grian yelps as he overcorrects, nearly falling onto the ground. He snaps his wings out trying to catch himself, which works, but also clocks Scar in the nose.

Regaining his balance he watches as Scar groans holding his nose. His brain catching up to the events that just transpired, Grian bursts out into a real, loud laugh.

“Why were you so close? You deserve that so hard oh my Void!” He doubled over holding his stomach as he laughed.

xB and Keralis both were trying to contain giggles while Queen of Hearts and StarVoid were looking on with disappointed gazes (though Grian did notice a suspicious glint in Queen of Hearts eyes that suggested maybe he agreed with their sentiment.) A few of the other people training in the gym stopped to look at the group. Grian stood up wiping the tears from his eyes, still laughing.

“Yeah yeah that one was on me! Dang you sure pack a punch with those! Maybe keep them behind ya huh?” Scar joked while still rubbing his nose which luckily wasn't bleeding or broken.

And just like that, Grian was no longer laughing. Right. Keep his wings out of the way. He forgot.

“Sorry, I’ll be better at keeping them out of the way.” He says with a fake smile. He doesn't want to make a big deal about this and drop the mood. It's alright, he just forgot they were a bit annoying.

Noticing the change in Grians demeanor, Scars goes to say something but is quickly interrupted by the hyper Swede.

“Are you guys hungry? Cause I know xB is! Right xB?” He asks, punching his friend in the shoulder. In return his friend punches his right back, though he didn't seem to pull his punch as much as Keralis given the Swedes small “ow ow ow” while rubbing his shoulder.

At the suggestion StarVoid steps forward around the Sleeper Duo and beside Scar. He glances down at his wrist before looking down to Scar, who was still dramatically rubbing his nose.

“How far have you guys gotten in your tour? We can join our groups for a brunch and continue from there if that world for you guys?” He offers. Grian finds that a slightly anxiety inducing scenario. Having Scars attention was bad enough but now more people and hanging out with StarVoid? He really didn't think this hero thing through. Sadly Scar doesn't seem to pick up on Grians hesitation as his face lights up.

“That sounds like a fantastic idea! That way you can tell us how yall know each other and we can all get to know each other.”

“Sounds good to me, we kind of already teamed up with X. The more the merrier.” KoH added.

Keralis fistpumped the air while xB watched him huffing a laugh. Inclining his head Grian nodded along as if he was excited as well.

“Great! To the cafeteria!” Scar chanted marching off in the direction of the hallway they had entered from.

They reached the elevator quicker than what Grian felt like the first time. It was a bit of a tight squeeze getting all six of them into the elevator but it was a short ride to just one floor above the main floor.

Walking through the doors, Grian got the impression that the level they just came from was for Heros only because this place was packed. Three of the walls were completely made of windows looking out onto the streets below. It was very bright with the early morning sun. Tables of different sizes filled with people in suits chatting with each other. Against the far wall was the wall where Grian assumed the kitchen was, as there were several heated tables with different types of foods.

But the first thing that caught Grian's attention when he first stepped into the room was the smell. Now, maybe he was being dramatic, but it was the best smell he had smelled in a long time. The smell of real cooking with real ingredients and spices. It was possible that he was just way too used to making ramen every night for the last three years. But hey, being a vigilante didn't pay very well, or at all really. And odd jobs during the day didn't pay much either. He wrapped his hands around his growling stomach hoping the group didn't hear him.

Being broken from his hungry thoughts, Scar threw his arm out to the large chalkboard above the line of food.

“Ah yes! It's hamburger day! Watch out Beef, don't get too excited.” Scar said, poking QoHs in the side. His face screws up as his face goes slightly red. He scratches his beard while sighing. Seeing the newbies' confused glances, Queen of Hearts sighs louder as Scar laughs. StarVoid tilts his head to the side, crossing his arms. Grian gets the impression he's putting on a disappointed stare.

“Listen, you forget the name of a hamburger one time, and you'll never hear the end of it!” He threw his hands as if angry, but the smile on his face made Grian think differently.

“You didn't just forget the name QoH,” StarVoid started, pronouncing his name as ‘Coe’, which Grian supposed made sense as a nickname for Queen of Hearts. “You stumbled so hard over the name you just called it ‘good-time-tasting circular beef’, and for that you will never be forgiven.”

“My real name is Vintage. But I’ll never live down the nickname ‘Beef’ so call me what you like I suppose.” He clarified to the new sidekicks, leading the group to the start of the line grabbing some food trays.

“So, that would make you Vintage Beef no?” Keralis chimes in smiling while assembling an honestly terrifying looking burger.

Beef's head slowly turned to look over at Keralis with faux horror on his face.

“What have you done?” He breathed as Scar started cackling while leaning on StarVoid to hold himself up, StarVoid just letting it happen. Many people stopped eating, turning to look at the group. Both xB and Grian just laughed softly while Keralis looked proud of himself.

“How have we never thought of that before?” Scar laughed.

“You will never live this down VintageBeef.” StarVoid added, spurring Scar on with more laughter. Grian noticed that StarVoid wasn't grabbing anything to eat while Scars plate tilted precariously.

Suddenly two cards landed by Scars and StarVoids feet, wedged in the ground halfway. Scar only laughed harder, while StarVoid just looked at the card shaking his head. Looking over to QoH, he looked as if he didn't do a thing. Smiling while finishing off his burger he was whistling a tune. Now it was Grians turn to laugh along with Keralis and xB. It seemed like both StarVoid and Scar were used to almost losing toes to cards as they also seemed amused.

Finally, Scar finished making his food before looking at Grian with an odd look. He was picking around the food looking for something that he could actually eat. Being Avian came with his own challenges, including certain foods he just couldn't eat. And while everything smelt amazing and he was very hungry, he didn't feel like spending the night feeling completely awful. He came to the slightly sad conclusion that maybe he should just stick with a salad this morning and stock some more ramen that he knew he could eat in his room.

But before he reached for the salad tongs, Scar nudged him causing him to look up.

“There's a hybrid safe table over there. There are three separate tables around here, one for everyone, one for restricted diets such as vegan or pescatarian and also a hybrid-safe table. We take hybrid safety seriously, even before the law was signed. They serve the same things over there as over here, let me show you.” He smiled as he started walking past the whole line of people. Surprisingly, xB followed them as well.

“I didn't know you were a hybrid…” Grian voiced as they followed Scar.

“Really? It plays into my power, I’m a guardian hybrid. That means I’m also forcibly pescetarian.” He smiles as they come to a stop before a buffet of food that looks similar to the last place they were, but with certain hybrids listed in front of the dishes naming which can eat which safely.

Now that xB mentioned it, it made a lot of sense that he was a Guardian hybrid. A lot of them were known to have the ability to slow people down when in water, along with a transformation that turned them into a mermaid-like creature when submerged in water. And while they usually had outward features such as fins and gills, xB having possibly none of them added to his powers he supposed. Quick escape if he was near water, nobody suspecting he was a hybrid.

Humming Grian started looking for Avian safe food, piling on his plate. After the two finished, Scar led them back to the others of the group, sitting at a table in the corner big enough to fit them all. All of them dug in, well all except StarVoid.

After they were all done they stayed seated just talking for a few hours. Grian learned the rest of the Heroes real names like Minos being Cleo, Aphrodite being Joe Hills, and Tek being just Tango. He didn't know exactly what he expected from the Heroes, but being this…normal, wasn't it.

When fighting on the streets they always seemed so stuck up and posh. Following the rules, flashing smiles to the cameras, making boisterous statements that turned into clips on the internet later. He wouldn't say they are all completely nice to him, there were a few heads turned in the cafeteria when the ex-vigilantes walked by. But these Heroes, the ones who gained a sidekick, were being very generous with their time. Grian didn't know what to think.

Every once in a while he'd look over to StarVoid, or Xisuma as he learned his name to be, (It was traditional, apparently, for the type of hybrid he was. Something called a VoidWalker, but he explained no further what that entailed. Grian had never heard of that species before and judging by the look on Keralis and xBs face, neither have they. Beef and Scar just continued off as if it was a normal admission. Which for them it would be, since they've known Xisuma for so long.) to see if he had any input into the conversation. But after learning his name, he seemed content to just watch the group talk. He sat in a straight posture inclining his head to whoever was speaking at the moment, never adding his own words.

That is until a quiet ‘beep’ came from his suit, which it seemed only Grian and him heard. Xisuma raised his arms and looked to the inside of his wrist, using his other hand to swipe around as if he was using a communicator. Which Grian supposed wasn't a far off guess as he let his arm drop, addressing the group.

“Scar, it seems you and Grian have a meeting with your PR manager soon.” He spoke to Scar alone. Grian huffed at the act of being ignored.

“What? It's not even…” He pulled out his own communicator, the balked at the time. “It’s 2 o’clock! We’ve been hanging for like three hours here!” Scar shoved his com back into his pocket grabbing both his and Grian trays. Grian watched as he tossed them 30 feet away where they landed directly on the stack of dirty trays perfectly, surprising everyone except Xisuma.

“We’ve gotta go guys! Cub is gonna be pissed…” He mumbled the last bit as the group recovered from the impressive aim, then they started laughing as he bent down grabbing Grians hand and booking it to the door. Grian could barely keep his feet under himself as he tried to pull his arm away, but it was like fighting a cement wall; he wasn't going anywhere.

When they finally reached the inside of the elevator, his face was beet red from exertion and his wings were raised as if trying to make himself bigger. Scar dropped his hand snickering while Grian tried to catch his breath. He noticed that Scar didn't even look like he was winded.

“Never do that again!” He shouted attempting to smooth his feathers out. Scar ignored him, pressing one of the many buttons before once again using his thumb to scan before the elevator started moving.

“Sorry not sorry Birdy, we’ve got places to be.” He chuckled at Grian. “Not very becoming to be late on your first day.” He leaned against the wall smiling at Grian.

“It's not my fault you can’t tell time!” He chirped, walking up to Scar placing his finger against his chest purposefully measuring his breath pretending he wasn't still out of breath.

“Well I’m always late cause I can be. I’m helping you, G-man!”

“You are so annoying!”

“Yeah yeah you love me!”

“You wish! I just met you!”

“Don't be like that! We’ve been nemesis for years.”

“You wish you were my nemesis.”

While at first Grian was upset, it was now getting increasingly harder to hide a smile at such a dumb argument. He didn't really care about being forced to run like that. If anything it was pretty fun trying to keep up.

The two were so wrapped up in their squabble that they didn't notice when the doors finally opened. Nor did they notice the stout man standing there with a clipboard, an exacerbated look on his face. He was tapping his pen on the clipboard just waiting to be noticed, which he quickly realized wasn't going to happen when the two men started to cat fight. So he drew out a long sigh before loudly clearing his throat.

Both Grian and Scar stopped where they were, hands wrapped around each other trying to strong-arm the other. They shared a glance before letting go, snapping to look at Cub, who just sighed again.

“I have to deal with another one. Great.” He said to himself. “Follow me please.” He looked back down at his papers, tuning a few over then writing on a few more. Scar followed him into the office first, followed by Grian.

It looked like a normal office one would expect from a public relations worker for the Hero Association. Very high floor level, made of mostly windows that looked over the city dramatically, and a sleek desk in the center. But when Grian walked up to Scars side he saw a few things that truly stood out. Namely the twenty or so outfits floating around the room in various states of completion. They had a faint blue growing aura around them, hovering up and down slightly. Sewing supplies were strewn around the room and over every available surface. A few of those are floating as well.

A thimble floats past his eyeline and he follows it with his head as it passes. Scar leans down as he does so.

“That's Cubs power. He's a Vex Hybrid with small level telekinesis. But he mostly uses it for sewing.” He says, poking the thimble as it passes him too.

Cub was in the center of it all, also with the thin blue aura around himself, and for the first time since Grian had met him, he put the clipboard down.

“Alright, Grian was it? Most of the outfits you’ll be wearing from here on out have already been sent to your room. Along with those are your other mandatory respawn bracelet and identification badges. I have not however sent your true Hero outfit as it is not finished yet. But here's the concept.” As he spoke he gathered a few of the outfits out of the air laying them over a chair behind the desk.

Grian was starting to get a little nervous. Every outfit he was seeing was very…pink. Which isn't really an issue, it's his favorite color so really that's a win. The issue was most of these outfits were very dressy. No lounge wear in sight. He looked over to Scar who seemed just as confused while looking around the room.

“Cub, what is all this? Isn't he just supposed to be a normal sidekick? He doesn't need all this gear.” He asked, pointing to the stuff on the desk that Grian didn't even notice. It had weapons on it, again all either pink, red or orange though some had blue as well. There were some knives longer than Grian forearm, smaller bows that could pass a slingshot honestly, and a few utility belts with weapons he doesn't even recognize.

“Normally, yes. Sidekicks are given the basic essentials until they can get contracted as a Hero. But he is different.” He grabs a shirt then turns to Grian, who straightens up nervously. Cub turns the garments back looking at the wing holes. “He is your sidekick.” His eyes flick up to Scar. “He's HotGuys sidekick. I don't know if you realize what we got here Scar, but this is a gold mine for the Hero Association and you two. You are already the most famous and successful Hero, and now you have a sidekick. He has to be just as marketable as you.”

“Yes I know that, but what does that have to do with the discount HotGuy outfits?” He pulls one of the shirts out of the air. And now that he mentions it Grian sees how similar it is to HotGuys signature outfit. Cub sighs, setting down the shirt he had.

Waving his hand, two of the mannequins from the corner of the room fly over to rest in the center. The taller one has HotGuys current Superhero outfit, with a few tweaks to it, such as a few pink details that used to be black around the waist. But the shorter mannequin showed off a Superhero outfit that had motifs of HotGuy while being different. Like that fact while HotGuys is mostly black, this is mostly white. It was sleeveless, tied around the neck with a bow in the back. There were white fingerless gloves stretching up past the elbow and halfway to the shoulder, these also had bows. A pair of high-waisted white baggy pants cinched around the calves much like HotGuys yet these were sent over a pair of orange fishnet tights. A belt held them above the hips with a heart-shaped belt buckle with the blue and orange of HotGuy. White combat boots tied to look together laced up with orange and pink laces. Resting on the head was a pair of pink sunglasses, heart shaped. And to finish off the look, there in the center of the shirt was a rounded off version of HotGuys logo, it almost looked like a heart.

Scars jaw dropped as he stared at the knockoff HotGuy outfit. While it did look different, the similarities are not lost on any of them.

“What is this!” He shouted, throwing his hands out. Grian just stared wide eyed at it. He felt his heart start to speed up. He was really starting to feel like he bit off more than he can chew. It was a great outfit. Very much something he would wear. But this all was moving a lot faster than what he expected.

“It's the new uniform for the famous Hero HotGuysnew sidekick. It's for the sidekick CuteGuy!” He smiled cheekily while the shorter mannequin flew to his side. “If you are worried about him getting cold I'm working on a sweater for him.” A pile of bulky fabric lifted from the desk settling over the mannequin's shoulders, then slipped off. An off-the-shoulder, oversized half pink, half blue, cardigan was warped around the outfit, it had heart shaped buttons and hugged the waist.

“I am not worried about him getting cold!” Scar shouted, sounding almost hysterical. “You steal my brand for this brand new sidekick that I didn't even want! Then you take my name too? CuteGuy! What kind of name is that Cub?” Grian watched as Scar yelled at Cub, who just was watching him with lazy eyes.

With an exhale, Cub pinches the bridge of his nose while grabs his clipboard before walking up to Grian. But before he even gets there Scar blocks him, stepping in front of Grian.

“Seriously Cub, don't ignore me!” Whatever Scar and Cub exchanged Grian couldn't hear. He was thinking very loudly to himself. He fucked up. The whole day was starting to crash down on him. He really did this. He's a Hero now and he's gotta uphold all the Hero look and rules. He went from fighting Heroes for fun last week to now sitting and having brunch with them. He knew their names. He's HotGuys sidekick. They were literally play-fighting like 20 minutes ago!

Grian could feel his wings wrapping around his shoulders trying to calm himself down. His breathing was getting quicker and quicker as his eyes scanned the roof for a place to hide. When that was a bust he started to slowly back up to the door hoping that neither of the men in the room would notice. And while he wasn't noticed, he didn't make it to the door before he was addressed.

“Scar, leave it be. This was a direct order from higher than you or me. He will be just as popular as you whether you like it or not. Now Grian,” He pushed Scar to the side who just crossed his arms and huffed at the dismissal. “Here's a packet of approved makeup looks you will be required to wear when seen in public with HotGuy, as CuteGuy. There are also some pictures as well as all the required makeup to produce these looks have been sent to your room. One last thing, I need to measure your wings one last time for a better quiver for you.” Not noticing Grians uncharacteristic silence he slipped behind Grian before he could even protest.

Now, Grian wasn't sure how much the people around here knew about Avian hybrids, but he was going to go on a limb and say Cub didn't know much. Grian had his wings curled around himself in what he thought was an obvious sign of distress. Catching eyes with Scar, Grian saw his eyes go from pissed off to widening with shock.

“Cub wait,” he started too late. Cub placed his hand in the center of Grians back holding up a measuring tape, unaware of his turmoil. Immediately Grians eyes dilated, he squawked jumping away from Cub chittering angrily. He couldn't breathe. He couldn't breathe! Too much its all too much!

He backed up into the corner of the room, knocking over several mannequins in his effort to get further away, though still trying to keep an eye on both Cub and Scar. All he could hear was the blood in his ears and his own distressed coos. He kept scanning the room for an escape while Scar pulled Cub to the front of the office away from Grian. He thinks he can maybe see Scars mouth moving, saying something but he doesn't understand. He wants out!

Finally he spots it. A singular open window directly behind the desk. Perfect! Belining for the window he hears someone shout, only spurring him on more. His claws push the window harshly until it's as wide as it will go, then he jumps though with minimal effort. He feels the air whip past his face as he plummets to the ground below. He flares his wings out, catching the wind and flinging himself up past the window he just jumped out of. He still can't hear, but at least now it's because of the wind rushing past him. He circles the building until he sees what has to be Scars balcony since it has broken down targets piled on it.

He goes to the opposite side, knowing it's his room, and lands on the balcony. When he opens the door he knows it's his room by the stack of boxes by the front door overflowing with white and pink clothes. He doesn't want to think about all of that right now. It's too much. He makes a beeline for his room, taking all the blankets and pillows he passes on the way there. He rearranged them in the corner of the room furthest from the door. All the while he's chirping in distress, calling for people he hasn't seen in over three years.

He upturns the box of sentimantals he brought from his apartment, taking the stuffed pigeon his sister got him, and curls up in the very nest-like bed in the corner. He feels a few tears come to his eyes. His breathing had gotten a bit better, now that he was alone and in a nest. He missed his flock. He hadn't needed them in years, so busy trying to find them that he didn't even have time to grieve.

He takes a deep breath to calm himself further. He certainly bit off too much for himself. It's only day one and he has a panic attack because of all of the things they expect of him. Not only is he expected to do all this Hero business like HotGuy, but he also has to get the information he needs about his flock too.

He coos sadly at the thought, gripping Moon closer. He will get his flock back if it kills him. Mumbo deserves it, as does Impulse and certainly his own sister. But this is turning out to be much harder than he thought it was going to be. Stupid bird! He really didn't plan this whole scheme very well, and for that he's paying the price.

Grian falls asleep feeling a single tear slide down his cheek and into the pillow. He dreams of his flock and the day he realized they were missing. Tossing and turning as the afternoon turns to night.

Chapter Text

Grian was awakened by a knocking at his door. For the second time he felt warm when waking, blinking slowly. This time though, he knew where he was waking up. He groaned, curling up tighter while pulling the blankets around his shoulders. His wings felt sore and he could still feel the dried tear tracks on his cheeks. He turned his head into his pillow, closing his eyes hoping the world would go away.

Sadly, the knocking didn't stop. Though it did seem to get softer.

Sighing softly, Grian prepared himself to face the day. Shifting his arms underneath himself he pulled himself up to sit, confusedly looking at where he was laying.

A large mass arranged into a mid sized circle on the floor. It had all the pillows and blankets from his bed along with the cushions he recognized from the couch. It was so comfortable and made his brain happy.

But it was immediately drowned out by the wave of embarrassment that washed over him. He made a nest in the room that he had only had for one day. He must have been a lot more out of it last night then he thought he was. He didn't remember passing out here, just the distressed feeling he felt. Ugh.

He climbed out of the nest, determined that when he wasn't so tired he’d take it down. That being said, he was still very tired, so he kept the blanket wrapped around his shoulders. What? It's cold in the morning.

Looking at the clock on the bedside table, Grian saw that it was a ripe 6:30am. He hummed lowly making his way through the closed bedroom door. He probably looked like shit. But to be honest he wasn't 100% sure he wasn't going to get fired because of what he pulled yesterday. Carefully shoving the boxes of clothes off the side, he reached the front door just as another knock sounded.

Interrupting their knock, Grian opened the door to yet again, HotGuy standing outside his door. But this time he was in normal looking clothes. Dark blue pajama pants with a loose fitted shirt with a mustache plastered on the front. It looked like something from an old major campaign. Still though, his sunglasses stayed. He stared at Grian, as if shocked he answered the door.

“Heyyyy…” He started awkwardly. He shifted from foot to foot nervously, which Grian felt was odd coming from the overly boisterous Hero. “I umm…Look I came here to say that Cub is really sorry for yesterday. He should've known better than to touch your back without you saying so. He moved some stuff around but sadly, all he could do was move the photoshoot for today to around 12pm, but after that he cleared our schedule for a week to help you get settled. Again, very sorry. And…” He paused to look over past Grian into his flat, seeming to look for certain words before looking back to Grian, “I’m sorry too. I should’ve realized that all this would be a little overwhelming. For that, I am sorry. I will help you get settled instead of showing you everything so quickly. I guess I forgot that this could be overwhelming for someone who isn't used to it and just wanted you to be as up to speed as me.” He finished straightening back up.

Grian stood shocked. Why were they apologizing? He had been the one who was too weak to just accept the challenges he brought upon himself. And not only Cub, but the HotGuy. He must still be asleep or something.

Looking over Scar, he couldn't find a trace of lies though. He was still shuffling slightly, as if waiting for rejection. Something about the way he was looking at Grian felt real, like he was actually sorry for what he had purposefully put Grian through yesterday.

Well, don't look a gift horse in the mouth.

“I…appreciate the apology. I guess I was just very overwhelmed and Cub touching my wings just sent me over. It- It won't happen again.” Grian nodded seriously. Best to forgive and forget here, no need for any animosity.

Scar seemed to agree as he smiled nodding his head too.

“Perfect! Well,” He bent down by the door pulling up a garment bag in his signature colors. “I thought because we still have to do that photoshoot, I’d help you get ready! That way you’ll know what they're looking for so you won't be surprised.” He smiled at Grian, as if there was no doubt he would agree. And honestly, with a bright smile like that, he was right.

Shrugging his shoulder Grian opened the rest of his door allowing Scar into his flat. He still was a bit upset about yesterday, but he’d rather be ready for this photoshoot than guessing every move.

Scar walked into his flat like he owns the place, setting his bag over the back of the couch. Grian just closed the door behind him, still lagging behind from walking up. He finally turned to face Scar, pulling his blanket further around himself.

“Uhh, G?” He heard Scar ask.

“Hmm yeah?” Grian blinked his eyes open. When had he closed them? He must be much more tired than he thought if he was falling asleep standing up and also in front of what was essentially a stranger.

“Did they not give you couch cushions?” He asked with what sounded like genuine concern.

Suddenly Grian was a lot more awake. He felt his face heat up to a nice tomato red as he sputtered through an answer.

“They- uhh- yeah they did! I- I just- Wanted them…somewhere else...” He finished lamely, looking at his feet.

“Oooh ho! Bird stuff! I gotchu! Anyways, help me dig through this frankly too big box of clothes for something that'll match my outfits perfectly! But not too perfect or else you’ll outshine me, and we can’t have that!” Scar continued talking and digging though one of the large boxes Cub had sent in the night before.

Was that it? Just ‘bird stuff’ and that's it? No like…being upset at ruining the couch or unconvincing everyone? This Scar guy keeps getting weirder and weirder. Each and every time Grian had some weird bird related ism Scar completely let it slide with no comment. Not even the typical scoff from him usually got when his wings got in the way.

Shaking his head and clicking his tongue, Grian decided to not think about it any further. Scar is Scar and so far he's found out that that's its own can of worms.

Walking over to the bare looking couch he tossed this blanket over the back. Shivering slightly, he pulled the closest box to himself and started to shuffle through it. He wasn't quite sure what he needed to be looking for, but he was sure that Scar would find something before he would.

The box he found looked to mostly be more casual clothes. Light feeling shirts and nice looking work out pants. Most of them were some variation of pinks, reds, blues, and oranges. To be honest it was more clothes then he could ever remember owning. Too much, is what it is. There was no way he would be wearing most of these.

At the bottom of the box he was greeted by a pair of fluffy pajama pants that he assumed Cub forgot to take out. It was like nothing else in the box, just plain black with one pink streak down the right leg, and an orange one down the left. Rubbing the fabric between his fingers he had a feeling he would be wearing these every night for the foreseeable future.

Feeling the air shift around him, he looked up from the pajamas to see Scar sitting next to him on the floor smiling. He had a few stocks of various colors of clothes in his lap.

“Like those do you? Cub tends to try and make one truly comfortable outfit as long as you promise to not leave your room in them. I think I have a pair that look very similar to those.” Standing up, Scar made to set each outfit on his kitchen counter before turning around pointing to Grian.

“Now the fun begins!” He clapped. Grian titled his head to the side, confused as he still sat cross legged on the floor. Clothes surrounded him as he didn't fold any of them when he dug through the box. “Fashion show!”

“Ha! I don't think so!” Grian replied. “Just tell me what to wear and I'll wear it. You know what's going on here, I don't.” And he was very set on making the Hero pick his photoshoot outfit until the man started pouting. At first it wasn't working. Grian just scoffed rolling his eyes, but then Scar just frowned in a way that looked even sadder. Squinting his eyes at Scar in challenge he waited. One of them was going to crack first, but who?

As the thought crossed Grians mind, he realized he had lost when Scars eyes seemed to start to fill with tears. He felt compelled to just go along with whatever the Hero wanted.

“Fine! You win!” He threw his arms shaking his head. “Just don't cry, I don't know how to deal with that.”

“Oh don't worry I wasn't going to actually cry! I just taught myself how to do it on command.” He laughed in a way that felt a little too maniacal.

“Whatever, just give me the outfits and tell me which is the best.” Grian stood off the ground, trying to hide a smile from Scar. Best not let the man know that he was being funny. His ego is big enough.

The two spent the next hour and some looking for a good outfit to compliment Scars, or well, HotGuys. Scar had obviously picked some combinations just to make them laugh. Such as the pink CuteGuy crop top paired with the armored up black pants. And while it was certainly a look, it was definitely one not to be worn outside. Scar was particularly taken when Grian added a pair of platform heels from a box of shoes Cub had sent along.

After they recovered from trying to create the worst outfit possible, they landed on the perfect look. At least, perfect according to Scar.

It was a cropped pink and red hoodie sporting the HotGuy logo over his heart. The sleeves were a bit long so they poofed out around his wrists with white cuffs. His stomach was covered by a pair of high waisted joggers. The string belt was tied off with a heart shaped bow above his naval. Scar pointed to the slightly heeled pink and white combat boots resting to the side of the shoe box. He had also handed him a pair and heart shaped sunglasses that tinted the world in a rose hue.

After they had agreed on the outfit, Scar locked himself in Grians bathroom to get himself ready. Somehow, he took longer to get ready in one outfit than when Grian was trying on the others.

Okay, maybe that was a bit of an exaggeration, but he was taking a while. Leaning against the wall outside of the bathroom, Grian started picking at his nails, sighing loudly. And when that didn't work, he sighed even louder.

“I can hear you, you know!” Scar shouted.

“Yeah that's kinda the point. I still need to do my makeup, SmallGuy.”

“I am not–!” Scar cut himself off as he flew through the door glaring at Grian, who looked like the picture of innocents. Pursing his lips, Scar seemingly decided to let the dig go. He released his grip of the handle, huffing while walking back into the bathroom to look in the mirror. “You don't need to do any of that, hair and makeup that is. They will do it for you.” He said, while fixing his hair. He was wearing his typical, mostly black, HotGuy Hero outfit.

Raising his eyebrows at the obvious irony, Grian made his way into the bathroom next to Scar. He placed a smaller box that Cub had sent to his room the night before on the counter, pulling out the brand new cosmetics. Most of the products were better than the ones he had, luckily they mostly matched his skin tone.

“I'd rather do it myself. What look are we going for?” He looked up to Scar, who was busy looking at all the things he had just pulled out with wide eyes. Sighing, he looked back in the box pulling out the paper that was the list of approved looks.

“You know how to use all of these?” He picked up a tube of concealer, rolling it in his hand.

“You don't?” That was curious. He would have assumed that most Heroes at least knew the basics of coverup makeup. Or a ‘no makeup’ makeup look. But Scar looked completely lost bouncing from jar to jar seeing what it was for.

“Nope! They usually just slap some stuff on my face and I just sit still. Er- as still as I can… I asked before but they just told me not to worry about it.” He placed some maskara back onto the counter. “I got the feeling they didn't want me to mess up the vision.”

“Vision?” Grian asked while washing his face lazily. Normally he wouldn't really bother with the whole nine yards of a makeup routine, but he was getting professional photos taken. He should probably put effort in.

“Yeah you know…The whole HotGuy look. I have to maintain the idea of the superhero or else people would get upset. It's probably smart that they don't let me do my own makeup cause I would probably do a lot more colors!” He opened up a palette of eyeshadows, gently rubbing his finger over the bright orange color holding it close to his face inspecting its color. “I've always wanted to but can't really practice and get feedback if I can't wear it outside you know?” He wiped his finger on his palm, inspecting the color further.

That didn't sound very fun to Grian. They wouldn't let Scar do something as simple as makeup because it didn't align with the idea of the superhero persona? That sounds dumb and really controlling. The fact that he couldn't even wear it out of his room is ridiculous.

“Well…If they don't mind me doing my own, then they probably wouldn't mind me doing yours too if you want me too.” Putting down the palette with a shocked gasp, Scar lit up like a Christmas tree at the offer.

“Really! Will you explain what you are doing? I want to try and learn too!” Again, there was no chance of Grian saying no with a look like that. Scar looking at Grian like he offered him a present made him feel nostalgic for some reason. Maybe he reminds him of his sister a little bit? No that didn't sound quite right…His sister was never as much into makeup as he was. Maybe it was just too long since he hung out with people like this. It feels nice…

Looking up to Scar, Grian realized that he was probably going to have to sit somewhere for him to comfortably reach his face. Walking out of the bathroom he pulled one of the chairs from the bar for Scar to sit on while he did his own makeup first. He placed it in front of the mirror so Scar could watch him do his own face. Being as practiced as he was, it didn't take too long. Cubs papers had mentioned a more modern look but with fun add ons such as drawn on stars under his eyes or hearts as freckles. It wasn't a look he typically went for, but it was fun to do. It gave him quite a few ideas on what to do with Scar.

He narrated the whole time what he was doing and what products he was using. Scar rarely asked questions, mostly just watching quietly as Grian applied it all, completely enthralled. When he finished his face he turned to Scar, asking what he thought.

“That's perfect! I'm sure Cub will love it! I love it! You did so good, you must have a really straight hand to get that detail…” Scar appraised with raised eyebrows.

“Well thank you! Now it's your turn. Take your glasses off, and close your eyes.” Looking back into the box Grian shifted a few things around hoping to find a bit darker shade of foundation. Somehow, as if Cub predicted this scenario, from the box Grian produced the items he was looking for.

Turning back to Scar, he saw the man hadn’t really changed at all. His glasses were still firmly on his face, sitting on the chair fidgeting slightly.

“Um-” He started, leaning back twiddling his thumbs over each other. “The glasses are part of the– uh– vision. So, even if I did take them off for you to do the makeup, nobody would see it. So what if you just did something like…around them?” He got progressively more nervous the more he spoke.

Now Grian wouldn't necessarily call himself the most socially adept person, but this was a pretty clear boundary. Scar wanted to keep the glasses on for some reason, and who was he to push for something from someone he barely knows? Truthfully, he didn't need to know. So he didn't ask.

“Sure! I'm sure I can do something.” Scars shoulders dropped immediately, releasing a breath nodding his head slightly.

After rethinking his approach, Grian decided to forgo the concealer and foundation. It would take away from his scars, and that wouldn't be fair anyways. He was starting to get an idea of what the ‘vision’ for HotGuy was and he didn't particularly care for it. Taking a larger brush, he started applying a pinkish blush over Scars cheeks including his nose; a call to Grians look where he used red to make him look almost cartoon-like. Then he took a blue pencil and drew a star right below his right eye, matching Grians pink one. On the other side he drew a pink heart, again matching his blue one.

Taking a step back, he nodded satisfied. Leaning back in, he added a few much smaller stars and hearts around his cheeks making them look almost like freckles, before he decided that's all he needed to do.

Scar swiveled around as soon as Grian called he was done looking in the mirror. He gasped softly leaning closer to the mirror, just short of climbing onto the counter. Grian barked a laugh as Scar practically vibrated with happiness.

“They never make it look like this! It's always boring.” He turned to catch Grians eye, and while he could really see Scars eyes, he could tell they were wrinkled with his wide smile. “Thanks PeskyBird.”

“Ha! No problem SmallGuy. We should probably get to that photoshoot before they send people after us huh?” Grian laughed as Scar turned back to look over himself in the mirror again. He started putting some of the makeup away back into the box.

“Yeah yeah we probably should…” Scar sighed, finally exiting the bathroom with Grian in toe. “You should grab your bow and quiver. They might have one for you but you never know with these things.” Scar pulled his own bow over his head from where he had rested it against the couch. He cinched his quiver around his thigh, standing to wait for Grian.

Walking back to his room Grian grabs both his bow and quiver, throwing them both around his head to rest between his wings. He didn't completely clasp the quiver over his chest though. Not being sure whether or not they were going to even have him wear it, he didn't want to go through all the trouble.

Together they left Grians room and headed to the elevator. Glancing over to Scar, Grian sensed his energy drop. After leaving his room, Scar seemed more resigned. That isn't to say he stopped smiling though. If anything he did that more. His posture improved and his smile became wider. He put on a pep to his step as he walked down the empty hall.

Inside the elevator he rocked on his heels resting his arms behind his back. Grian felt weird about what he just witnessed. He truly just saw the transformation from Scar to HotGuy. He supposed now he was supposed to act the same, go from Grian to CuteGuy. Then again he wasn't quite sure who CuteGuy was yet. So far it just felt like himself, but more fake. Maybe that was how Scar felt too.

Scar led them to a floor Grian had never been to. It was a pretty empty floor, or at least he assumed it was when a photoshoot wasn't going on. At the moment it was full of busy bodies setting up light and cameras in different areas, each with different backdrops and props.

People walked back and forth, talking with each other. Grian peered up to Scar, watching as he took a deep breath before walking further into the room. Following him closely, he led them straight to Cub, luckily somehow finding him among the crowd. He was talking with a few photographers, but upon seeing HotGuy who flashed them a bright smile, they quickly fled with red cheeks.

“Ah, perfect! HotGuy and our new star CuteGuy! Come talk to me for a second.” He motioned for the two of them to step further into the corner of the room. Following, he spoke to them in a hushed voice. “Hey Grian, I just wanted to apologize in person for what happened yesterday. I had no right to touch you without permission and truly I should've known better. I've cleaned the schedule for the rest of the week for you both. After this shoot I’ll edit the pictures and we can debut you guys sometime next week. Again, very sorry and it won't happen again.” He spoke looking at Grian in the eyes, no clipboard in his face or a blase attitude. He seemed genuinely sorry for his actions.

It's been a long time since anyone has apologized to Grian for touching his wings. But hey, as long as he wasn't in trouble for what happened, then all is forgiven. And he just has to hope and believe it really won't happen again.

“It's okay, just please let me know if you plan on touching my wings. Just freaks me out a bit is all. Water under the bridge man.” He laughed nervously. His wings were pulled closer to his back, jostling his quiver a bit.

Cub looked over to HotGuy with what looked like confusion, but quickly snapped back to Grian. He nodded his head, smiling softly.

“Yeah, water under the bridge. Now let's get this over with yeah? I noticed that you already did hair and makeup. I like the look of Grian, perfect for what we are going for. And Scar,” He paused looking between the HotGuy and Grian. In turn the two gazed nervously at each other as well. After a second or two too long Cub continued. “While I wasn't planning on changing up the HotGuy look, I like this a lot. It makes you two look more cohesive as a pairing. Good job. Probably time we change up the HotGuy merch anyways.”

Cub led them over to the largest white backdrop up against the leftmost wall. He instructed them that this was going to be the first of many duo photos. They were supposed to look relaxed and like they actually liked each other. Which, Grian supposed, was becoming much easier the more time he spent with HotGuy.

That being said, he felt very uncomfortable with the amount of people just staring at them. They were all there for the photoshoot to help with light and camera and costumes but it just made Grian feel awkward. Here he was on his second day being treated like a celebrity. Getting pictures taken as if paparazzi had caught him and HotGuy.

He tried to look relaxed and carefree, but his uncomfortability must have shown somehow as Scar suddenly looked away from the cameras and down to Grian. He tried to smile up to him, but it fell short as HotGuy just shook his head, turning his back to the camera, much to the camera woman's dismay.

“Hey, you are too tense.” He spoke quietly, so as the others didn't hear. He dropped his shoulders a little as well when talking to Grian. Ah so Scar must be talking a little bit instead of HotGuy. “It's not as hard as they make it seem. Just act like you are out on patrol looking for bad guys or something. Smile a few times like you saw a cat while patrolling. Always works for me!” Scar smiled putting a hand on Grians shoulder.

“I'm just…Not used to this much attention is all.” Grian breathed.

“I get that. Let's just try and have some fun with it, yeah? I said I was going to try and help you and gosh darn it I will! Watch this!” Scar spun around on a heel flashing the camera a wide, brilliant smile with brandishing finger guns. A flash radiated through the room as the women behind the camera took an opportunistic photo.

It made Grian smile, how very Scar to try and get him to smile by being goofy. Well it certainly worked as the camera flashed a few more times as Grian's smile grew wider watching the ridiculous poses that Scar threw at the camera.

Crossing his arms over his chest, Grian just watched Scar keep going more and more. Shaking his head and rolling his eyes. Finally after a few more photos like that, Cub called for a new scene. They were now individuals, because of both HotGuys new look and CuteGuys overall debut.

HotGuy went first. Pulling multiple poses that would surely get the fanatics to swoon. Flashing the camera with brilliant smiles and almost pulling his shades down to tease a look at his eyes. It didn't take long for it to be CuteGuys turn in front of the camera.

“Alright! From you I’m going to need a full range of individuals because you are new.” The woman said, to which Cub shook his head. “First, just look into the camera and smile.”

He did as he was told. Smiling when told to smile, pulling out his bow and aiming when told to aim, and interestingly enough, when they told him to look broody, he tried his best to look broody. For that particular pose, he looked past the camera and shot Scar an unimpressed sneer, which the camera lady loved. Scar just laughed calling him a natural.

After that it was just a few more cycles of duos and individuals whenever Cub seemed to want more of a certain pose. All in all it took around three hours for all of the promo photos to be finished. Both Grian and Scar were feeling it, getting tired and hungry. Sharing a look with Scar, Grian groaned, throwing himself on the ground overdramatically. Scar laughed, looking over to Cub, who was bent over a camera with the photographer checking the last photos they had taken.

Sighing, Scar turned his head to the side slightly starting intentionally at Cub. Then without taking his eyes away, dropped onto the ground next to Grian. This time it was his turn to laugh as Scar groaned just as loud. Fortunately, Cub seemed to hear this one. Scoffing, he made his way over, kicking Scar lighting in the boot.

“Alright you two, the photos came out good. You can take off. As promised I won't contact you for the next week. Do whatever you want, but be ready when the week is up. I'm sure the higher ups will have a mission or two for when you get back.” Cub went straight back to the camera men, looking through the photos taken. Guess even though they had the week off, Cub didn't. Welp, not his business.

Grian jumped off the floor, grabbing Scar to help him up, making a beeline for the door. He made it to the elevator in record time as Scar laughed at his urgency.

“Don't laugh at me! We have to run before he changes his mind!” He laughed back. Scar just laughed harder as the elevator finally closed, raising them up to the living quarters floor.

Shoving at each other lightly as they left the elevator, they walked down the hall to their respective rooms. They both stopped outside their doors gazing at each other from across the hall still giggling.

“Enjoy your week off PeskyBird. Maybe we can hang out again sometime within the week. We can invite the others and have a nice night.” Scar said, pulling his bow off his back and untying his quiver from his thigh.

“Maybe. You know where to find me if you want to, just let me know.” He leaned against his door while talking to Scar taking a similar approach and removing his quiver and bow.

Scar smiled at him kindly. “You did good today by the way! Those pictures are going to look awesome!”

“I doubt any of mine will be great but thanks anyways. You really helped me back there and I really appreciate it.”

“Of course they will look good! I was in them too!”

“Oh how humble of you.”

“Humble is my middle name!”

“No it is not!”

“You wouldn't know!”

“Whatever. I'm going to take all this off. Let me know if you need any makeup wipes.”

“Nope! I’m all good. All I need is to get out of these annoying clothes. I’ll see you again later, okay Grian?”

“Yup! See you later!”

And with that, they went into their opposite rooms with the same goal of getting out of their uncomfortable clothes. Grian shut his door with a smile on his face. A whole week to himself. Pulling his shirt over his head as he walked into his room, he walked straight into the bathroom, dropping it into the laundry basket. He turned on the shower waiting for it to heat up.

He smiled wider. A whole week to himself. Now with complete ID cards and scannable passes to any place in the Hero Tower. His tour wasn't very thorough the first time. Now he supposed he could go anywhere he wanted to all by himself. Look through any floor, or computer, or locked room.

He could find any information he wanted now that he had this much free time. And being new had the benefit that if he got caught he could blame it on being lost. Perfect plan!

A perfect plan that he will put into action…tomorrow. He was very tired right now and a nice shower and nap sounded very pleasant, thank you very much!

He hopped into the shower feeling the hot water run down his shoulder, letting out a sigh of relief. This next week was going to make the past few days worth it. He just knew it! He just wanted a small rest first, then he will find his family, and everything will be fine again. He's just so close and everything finally felt like it was falling into place. Knowing him, it won't last long, but he will enjoy it while he can.

Chapter Text

The next day passed slowly. After begrudgingly sleeping in his (nice, soft and oh so comfortable) nest, Grian took all the blankets and pillows and put them back in their right places. He strictly ignored the part of himself that was sad to watch the nest go. He felt his wings twitch every time he tore a blanket away and tossed it back on to the bed.

When he was done, he decided it was finally time to see what the kitchen had been stocked with. When he woke up that morning he realized it was already quite late in the day. It was now late brunch time, though he wasn't really that hungry. It was kind of weird that he even had a kitchen considering there was a whole cafeteria. Then again plenty of people worked in this building and didn't live here. And really Grian knew he wasn't the best cook, so he was probably going to frequent that cafeteria more often than not.

Ignoring the twitching of his ear feathers, he opened cabinet after cabinet taking stock of everything. It was getting quite annoying that these Avian instincts were acting up again. He used to have these under such good control. Why were they irritated? He supposed maybe it had to do with the new environment. Yeah that sounded right. He just got used to the area yet and once his birdness caught up he would go back to being normal.

While glancing around the kitchen, Grian noticed that all of the food was Avian safe, even down to the cereal. They had really thought of everything huh…

Shrugging his shoulders, Grian grabbed one of the boxes of some random cereal and a bowl. It had been a while since he had had this kind of meal. He typically didn't have enough money for milk. And while he wasn't quite sure if this whole Hero business would extend past getting his family back, he was going to milk this for what it's worth.

He took his dubiously expensive bowl of cereal to the couch and looked up at yet another luxury he could never have afforded: a tv. Squinting his eyes at it, he brought a spoonful up to his mouth. He was never really one to watch tv in any of the foster houses he was in, and he certainly didn't have one back at his old place to peruse.

While he knew that to get enjoyment out of it, he'd have to turn it on, he wouldn't even know what to watch. Maybe… He put his half empty bowl of cereal on the coffee table in front of him. Maybe next time he sees Scar he could ask him for some recommendations? Would that be weird? No, probably not. Maybe… whatever.

Taking his bowl to the sink to wash it out, Grian started to plan out the rest of his day. He was waiting for the night. He can't really sneak around the facility looking for classified documents if it was plain daylight. He'd get caught way too easily, which would ruin everything. So night time he must wait!

Placing the bowl on a drying rack next to the sink (distantaly he remembered he had a dishwasher, but he was too used to washing dishes by hand at this point.) he looked around his apartment. It was so quiet. A serene kind of calm that most would find easy to breathe in. The sun peeking through the curtains, lighting the room in a natural glow. He wasn't sure how thick the walls were but he hadn't heard a peep from anyone else in the building. It's peaceful, and it's calm.

And it's boring.

With a sigh Grian set out to find something, anything, to do. He had put most of the clothes away last night. (It was also entirely possible that he purposefully kept some of the ones he didn't particularly like in the boxes that he shoved in the back of one of the closets. But Cub didn't need to know that.) With that thought, Grian remembered that in putting some of the clothes into the closets, he noticed some stuff that looked to be left behind by the last resident or the people in charge of this room just didn't feel the need to take it away. Hopefully they left something entertaining.

Walking back to his room, Grian got on his knees and crawled into the closest. Locating the stack of stuff in the back, he pulled out a few of the random items out into the light. Most of it seemed to be small things that someone no longer wanted. A few cheap looking wine glasses, an old baseball cap or two, a couple plushies that looked impersonal. Pushing those to the side Grian saw something bigger in the very back that looked promising.

Reaching further back he pulled the heavy item closer along with something that was piled on top. Or somethings. Looking at what he had just pulled into the light, it looks like someone had thrown an old record player back there, along with several records to go along with it.

Upon realizing what he stumbled on, a wide smile stretched across his face. Music! It had been so long since he had something that he could just play music on! He once had a portable CD player that an old foster home had given him. But he had lost it a long, long time ago.

He hauled the heavy record player into the main room, placing it on the coffee table with a huff. He ran his hand across the faded wood top, lifting it to look at the inside. Everything seemed to be intact, if not a little dusty and well used in the past. Bouncing on his toes, he grabbed the plug and searched for an outlet. After plugging it in, he excitedly leafed through the vinyl records.

All of them were covered in a layer of dust and a few of them were in covers that were held together with tape and a prayer. They also seemed well loved. He wonders why someone would shove them in the back of an unused closet.

Nonetheless, he gets to use them now. And use them he will! Finders keepers and all that.

He pulls the most rough looking record from the bunch, deciding if whoever had these last loved this one the most, it must be pretty good. He didn't recognize the name of it, but it had a pretty cover. Or what was left of the cover.

Gently placing it in the player, he ticked over the needle and pressed the on button hoping for the best. And it seems his hopes were met as the record hummed to life skipping slightly before the song started playing.

It was a piano heavy slow melody that immediately made him feel relaxed. It was light sounding and beautifully flowing. He leaned back on the couch happily listening to the song continue into the otherwise silent room. Somehow, it felt like coming home, a warm hug. Like he had heard this melody everyday since birth, yet he was sure that this had to be the first time ever hearing it.

He let his eyes close, enjoying the music.

It ended sooner than he would have liked, frowning as he lifted his head from the back of the couch. He pulled the record out, flipping it to the next side and letting that play as well.

Looking at the pile of records next to the player, he knew what he was going to be doing with the rest of his time today.

Time seemed to pass quickly after that. Morning turned into afternoon, which turned into evening which he spent sorting the stack of records into separate piles based on how much he liked them. Pursing his lips he looked at the dubiously stable tower of the ones he liked versus the maybe two or three he thought were just okay.

As the last few notes floated through the air, Grian let out a labored sigh. He sat forward with his hands resting in his lap, playing with his fingers. He turned his head to look out onto the balcony and into the city. It was night out, but that didn't make it dark outside. The lights from various buildings and cars cast an orange glow around the city and onto the clouds in the sky. He was sure that if he opened the door he could also hear the sleepless metropolis.

But while the city never sleeps, he knew that Heros certainly did. And this was the perfect time to do a bit of snooping under the guise of being lost if caught. The longer he waited the less plausible deniability if he was seen in a place he shouldn't be, perks of being a newbie.

If only he could convince himself to get up.

It wasn't that he was nervous. Well, maybe he was a little nervous, but not about getting caught. Being a vigilante he had done plenty of missions incognito. Get in, get out type business where getting caught would have severe consequences. Very rarely had he come close to having to face any of those consequences though. So no, he wasn't worried about getting caught.

But he was a little worried about what he would find. What if he found his family was somewhere far away? What if they are Villains now? What if…What if they are gone? Grian is very aware that ignorance isn't always bliss. And he would certainly feel worse never having tried to find them at all.

He brings one of his wings around himself into his lap brushing over the feather with a less than gentle hand. It'll be fine. In and out. Find some information, stay a few more days, then book it. Maybe take some of the food and clothes. But otherwise, there would be no reason to stay here if he finds his family.

Resolve set, Grian stood replacing the record back into its sleeve before closing the case entirely. Maybe when he got back he would listen to some of them again. Okay, he knew he would be listening to them again when he got back, which is why he didn't put any of the records away completely.

He walks into his room, searching for all black clothes. Cub hadn't given him much of that option. Sure some were mostly black but they still had some sort of color. Usually in the form of that damn heart shape. Whatever. Mostly black will work just as well as long as he isn't in broad light.

After changing, Grian went and opened his box labeled ‘taxes.’ Most everything from the box had already been put away (such as Moon and a few pictures he couldn't find himself to throw away) but at the very bottom was his small collection of weapons he used to carry when on the streets. Much like his bow, he wasn't quite sure where they came from, but he was sure to never lose them.

He was pretty sure he wouldn't ever need to carry such protection here, but trespassing made him feel a little paranoid. Taking one of the smaller daggers, he placed it into his boot before standing up and making his way out the door and into the hallway.

Closing his door quietly behind himself, he listens closely for movement anywhere. He knew that only Scar and himself lived on this level, but he didn't feel like being questioned by the boisterous Hero either. Luckily, he was alone.

The lights of the hallway had been dimmed for the night. Assumedly for better sleeping or possibly to dissuade people from roaming the halls at night, but that didn't stop Grian. Stepping lightly to the elevator, he pressed the lowest level button available.

When he originally was given his tour he remembered a few doors in the training room hallway. Scar had explained that most were boring office rooms and such. At the time Grian didn't care about them much, but if he's not mistaken a few of those doors had fingerprint scanners, of which he should now have access to. Hopefully one of those would lead down into an archive room of sorts.

He used the scanner on the elevator he was on, and sure enough, his prints were now in the system. The doors closed and he began his descent to the lowest level. It felt much longer without someone there to keep him company. He was also certainly feeling how closed off the space felt. Damn Avian-ness.

Launching himself out of the elevator as soon as there was enough of a gap that he could, Grian shuffled to a promising looking door in the hallway. It was the last one on the left side, and he chose it first because it was a few more feet away from the other door in its row. It felt oddly sectioned off, making it suspicious in his eyes.

Placing his thumb on the scanner, he waited for the agreeable green pass like the elevator gave him. Unfortunately, it beeped a garnish noise accompanied by a robotic female voices declaring ‘denied access.”

Frowning, Grian smashes his thumb back into the scanner harshly. Again, the same voice appears relaying the same as before. He scoffed before changing his finger to his pointer finger, banging his other fist above the scanner. This resulted in the same situation as before. Come on, why wont it just work? Does he need to steal a pass from someone? He wasn't prepared for that much work. Who was he going to have to steal from?

“Trying to break into restricted rooms I see.”

Jumping back with an embarrassingly loud yelp, Grian reaches his hand for his boot before his brain catches up to his ears.

With wide eyes Grian sees, leaning against the elevator door laughing his ass off, is Scar dressed in workout clothes. He reaches his hand up under his glasses wiping a tear away as he clutches his stomach.

Grian feels his cheeks warm, crossing his arms across his chest, turning his head to the side and looking at the floor.

“Oh ha ha. Where did you even come from? I didn't even hear the elevator move?” He scowls, willing his heart rate to calm down.

Continuing to giggle off and on, Scar takes a deep breath before finally addressing Grian.

“It's part of my charm, I’m always there.” He sent a blindingly wide smile Grians way while joining him next to the locked door. He presses his thumb to the same scanner Grian did without a word, watching it turn green with a pleasant tune.

Looking at Scar with a questioning gaze, he watches as Scar opens the door, holding it open for Grian. Squinting his eyes in suspicion, Grian wonders why Scar is just letting him into restricted places. Especially just catching him trying to force his way in. Scar turns his head catching Grians look, then just shrugs when he sees the question in his eyes.

“No tour is complete without going to the places you aren't allowed to go. Besides, I’ve got nothing better to do.” He says nonchalantly, as if Grian couldn't see he was clearly on his way to the gym. Scar must have seen the obvious call-out in his face as he scoffs, throwing his head back.

“Okay fine. So maybe I had stuff I was going to do. But this is much more fun and interesting!” He smiles.

“Hmm…” Grian lifts his head still squinting his eyes at Scar. “I don't,” He turns his head away from Scar, “believe you.” He says, crossing his arms. Scar gives a sudden bark of laughter at Grians antics. Looking into the room Grian is greeted by the sight of yet another elevator. Both interesting and annoying.

Both Grian and Scar walked into the elevator, but Scar was the one to press a combination of buttons. Grian just watched quietly as the doors closed, and he felt them start to move downwards once again.

“Listen, there's nothing interesting down there. Real boring stuff. So I might as well show you instead of someone finding you down there and you getting in trouble.” Grian could hear the smile in his voice, so he gave up the suspicion. He dropped his arms and leaned against the wall, relaxing.

“Yeah yeah whatever…”

“What are you even looking to see? Just places you aren't supposed to, PeskyBird?”

Grian paused at the question, remembering what he was actually trying to do. Oh shit. Scar just invited himself into Grians super secret mission. Ugh how was he supposed to get this information now? With Scar breathing down his neck he won't be able to grab any documents he might need.

“I, umm…was just curious? I guess?” He told Scar, hoping he didn't sound too much like he was lying.

Unfortunately Scar gives him a suspicious look. “I don’t,” He parrots Grians previous words, “believe you!” He finishes cheekily. Grian just rolls his eyes as Scar continues. “But I get it. A locked door has to be opened, you know? Well, strap in, cause the floor you wanted to go to is like, really far down. So we're gonna be here for a hot minute.” He brings his hand up inspecting his nails. He painted them blue. Quite poorly, Grian may add.

“Well, if we are going to be here for a while, tell me what's down there.” Grian asks while looking around the elevator. It had already been a few moments and he was starting to get a bit antsy with the enclosed space.

“Well not much. It's the lowest basement that I know of, and it just has all of the server rooms and wifi stuff. And the whole archive library of past missions and people involved in them.” He waves his hand lazily as he speaks, as if he hadn't given Grian the best news of the year. He somehow stumbled onto the correct door for the stuff he needed. Grian wouldn't call himself a lucky person, but maybe all of the good karma was finally coming back to him in these past few weeks.

He could feel his hands start to shake the further down the elevator went. Whether it was because of the now adrenaline coursing through him at being so close to finding his family, the anxiety from the small elevator, or a mixture of both he wasn't sure. He rubs his hands together to try and relieve the energy as Scar continues.

“Nobody really comes down here unless something is wrong with the internet or to add to the archive. Of course they wouldn't just want anybody down here ‘cause of all the classified mission reports, so only those who are on a need to know basis have access.” Grian snorted.

“So why do you have access then?”

“I’ll have you know I’m very need to know! I need to know everything!” Scar indignantly spoke back.

“Yes yes I’m very sure the HotGuy knows everything about everything ever.”

“I do thank you!”

Grian brought his hand up to his mouth as he laughed over Scars ridiculous self satisfied look. Seeing Grian laugh at him, Scar squinted his eyes (or well, Grian assumes he does. He just sees his eyebrows lower beneath his sunglasses and he gets the idea he's looking at him with suspicion.)

“I’m starting to think you don't actually believe that I know everything ever…”

Grian only laughed harder as Scars face melted into an affronted stare, though Grian could see he was trying to hold back a smile as well. The elevator chooses that time to finally stop on their desired floor. With a quiet ding, the doors slide open revealing a dimly lit hallway.

As soon as the doors open, while still trying to regain his composure, Grian quickly steps out of the small, enclosed, tight elevator with Scar following behind him. Pausing outside the doors, Grian takes a few more deep breaths. Finally looking around, the hallway is much like every other one he's seen in this building so far, white with more white. Except with the lights being dimmed, it makes the shadows more pronounced giving the walls a gray look.

Walking down the hall he passed a few doors that have glass lining the sides of the doors letting him peek into the room. He could see green blinking lights in two of the rooms, though the rest of the rooms were pitch black, and he could feel cool air slipping from under the door.

“Those are the server rooms. The Association has lots of cameras and computers all over the place and that's where all the data goes I guess. That could be completely wrong but that's what I got when Cub explained it to me once.” Scar shrugs while continuing to walk past them. Lagging behind slightly Grian looks into the rooms once more, debating whether it would be worth it to take a closer look.

Ultimately, he decided that he would have better luck looking for tangible files first. Then if nothing comes up there he can look deeper into the server rooms to see if anything is hidden in those.

Jogging to catch up to Scar, they come up on another door, but this one has another fingerprint scanner. There was a plaque on the door engraved in a language that Grian didn't recognize. It was very swirly, with thin dots breaking up the letters. Scar didn't even look over at it, whether he knows the language or just ignores it Grian doesn't know. How interesting.

Clearly Scar knew what was behind the door as he didn't even hesitate to press his thumb onto the pad, waiting for it to turn green before twisting the handle open. He went in first, holding the door open for Grian to pass. Once in the room, he shut the door behind him.

It was darker here than in the hallway, but Grian could still tell he was in an in-between room. The air felt stale, and there was another door not but ten feet away. After shutting the door, Scar pressed a button next to the door.

“Brace yourself, this always feels weird.” And that was Grians only warning as he felt the air get sucked out of the room, then replaced a few seconds later. It was like the air was stolen from his lungs, then quickly replaced. He felt colder, and slightly violated. Coughing lightly, Grian leaned against the wall as he took deep breaths.

“Sorry, I should've warned you better!” Scar hovered over Grian with his hands up, as if he was going to pat his back.

“What was that?” Grian rasped, finally catching his breath.

“Air filter. These documents are the only copy that exists so it's a precaution that no bad germs or particles get into the room. I’m so used to it that I forgot how bad it could feel if you aren't expecting it…”

“It's fine. Just felt…weird..” Grian shook out his feathers, feeling them lift then settle in a new alignment.

“That's one way to say it! Here, through this door is the hallway to the archive.” Scar shuffled past Grian pressing his thumb one more time onto the sensor and opening the door once he was accepted. For how much security this place had, Grian was surprised Scar was just willingly letting him look around. It would have taken him ages to break through this many scanners without Scar.

Pushing through the door Grian was greeted with yet another hallway, but it looked much more…run down. Like at one point there may have been art painted on the walls, but now that paint was chipping away or poorly painted over. There were only three doors yet Scar led him directly to the one across from the air lock room.

“Ironic that we had to have our air stolen for safety purposes yet this place looks like I'll get a disease by looking at it.” Grian said, following Scar closely.

“I know, they don't really care about down here as much as they used to. At least the hallway, that is.” Quickly opening the door he ushered Grian though first then followed after. Flipping the light on, Grian had to blink quickly to let his eyes adjust. Finally, when he could finally see again, he scanned the room.

From floor to ceiling there were stacked filing cabinets in rows and rows giving the appearance of a maze. Suddenly Grian realized that his search may not be nearly as quick as he thought. Stunned, he turned to Scar.

“You said this was every mission and every person even involved with the missions?” He asked.

“Yup! If they used a computer system to store it all, it could get hacked and stolen. At least if it's all here then they can defend it!” He smiles walking further into the room. “It's sectioned by Heros, Villains, civilians then by mission reports. So over here,” he pointed to a section along the wall next the the door they entered from, “is all the Hero's files. Like me and Tango! Don't try opening StarVoids though, it's locked and I haven't been able to pick that lock yet.” Scar laughs nervously, as if he'd get in trouble for admitting that. As if Grian would care, if anything he would help Scar.

Looking at all the Hero's Grian feels a little small. There had to be at least one hundred different names labeled on different cabinets. Some of the labels seemed to be etched out, or blacked out in black marker. Scar must have notched where he was looking, because he stood next to Grian then sighed.

“They don't remove a file if the Hero dies or goes missing, since then their information would get lost. And it might be needed later on for something or another.” Judging by Scars voice, Grian can guess that a few of the blacked out names were possibly some of his friends. He chooses not to bring it up.

Tuning away from the Heros, Grian walks down an aisle labeled in alphabetical order.

“You said this is the civilian area?” He asks, beelining for the ‘P’ cabinets.

“Yup! It's all in alphabetical order, but towards the back it gets a little jumbled. Looking for someone?” Scars voices follow him, much more chipper than before. He must be masking again.

“No.” He lied, finding the correct place alphabetically. Come on, Pearl Xelqua. There has to be something! Anything…

But after searching through the meticulously labeled folders, right where her name should be there was nothing. Not even a place holder. Plenty of ‘Pearls’ lived in the city that had been involved in some with the Association and Heros, but none with his last name.

He refused to let tears flood his eyes. He wasn't done yet. He had come much too far to let go where he gave up hope. He will just have to look somewhere else. Plus, he still has three other people to search for! He shakes his head while he closes the filing cabinet. Two. Two other people. Where did the three come from?

He makes his way back to Scar, who watches Grian come back with a small frown.

“Not see anything interesting huh?” He wagers.

“No.” Grian says clipped. He needed to find more files somewhere. Maybe a missing person? Did the Hero's deal with those? If so then they must have an open mission file somewhere. Maybe they had more clues then Grian did. Before he could ask, Scar stepped away from the Hero files toward Grian.

“Here! This will cheer you up, it always does for me!” He turns back to the Heros and immediately pulls the file that says ‘Tek’ on it. Rifling through the files among files, Grian leans over shoulder slightly interested in whatever Scar was going to show him. Finally he pulls back with a soft ‘a-ha!.’ Turning back to Grian he shoves a paper into Grians hands, pulling away to place his hand on his hips in a power stance, looking proud.

Pulling his hands back from his chest after barely gripping the paper from Scar, he holds it up to see what must be a very tiny Tango. Grian feels a smile stretch across his face as he looks at a small child with blonde hair and ears much too big for their head, caught mid-bit of what Grian can only assume is chocolate cake. They were dressed in a red jumper with pink and white hearts patterned all over. If he looked closely he could make out the beginning of fire coming off of his head.

Finishing his assessment, he hands the photo back to Scar giggling softly. Scar takes the photo, putting it back laughing as well. Suddenly, Grian is hit with a revelation.

“So. What you are showing me is that Heroes have baby pictures in their files?” He asks Scar with a mischievous smile. Scar doesn't seem to catch on, as he laughs once more before nodding.

“I suppose.” He closes the file finally turning to Grian and seeing his smile. Suddenly, Scars smile drops. “Don't even think about it, PeskyBird!” He shouts as Grian turns tail and books it for HotGuys file. Scar reaches out but his hand catches the air.

Grian slides to a halt yanking open the file, quickly shuffling through its contents. Just like in Tangos, in the back was an almost empty folder with a few photos inside. Pulling a random one out, Grian coos at baby Scar. He was sitting on the floor of a kitchen with a mischievous grin on his face surrounded by pots and pans with a wooden spoon in hand. The photo was abruptly snatched from his hand, but the damage had been done as Grian doubled over laughing with bird-like coos interrupting him every so often.

“Oh ha ha, laugh it up! Very funny!” He said discontentedly, putting the photo away. Grian reached up grasping Scars sleeve preventing him from shutting the file. Scar gave him an odd look as he recovered from his laughing fit.

“Wait, I wanted to see more.” He wiped a tear away with his free hand as he peered into HotGuys file once more. Scar seemed hesitant to let him look, but he didn't close the file.

There seemed to be folders labeled with normal stuff such as personal documents, tax forms and a few packed folders named ‘missions’ that were close to bursting at the seams. But what Grian found odd was the four folders in the front with blacked out labels. When he went to reach for one Scar grabbed his wrist, they locked eyes. And while Grian couldn't really see his eyes, he let his arm drop. Looking back in, he saw a partial label connected to all of them that read ‘Boatem.’

“What's a ‘Boatem?’ He asked looking back at Scar, keeping his hands by his sides leaning from the last time. Grian is taken aback when Scars face looks shocked. Aghast that Grian would even ask a question like that.

“You’ve never heard of Team Boatem?” He breathed appalled. He dropped his arms from the open file to take a step away from Grian tilting his head to the side.

Grian got the feeling he was missing something. A feeling in his chest spreading out to his limbs that froze his lungs. Boatem? He is very sure he's never heard of that word before, yet Scar is acting like it's the letter ‘e’ in English. But even though his brain knows he's never heard the word, his heart beats harder and feels warmer. What was this Team Boatem?

“Are you serious? How long have you lived in Hermit Empire?” He shakes his head, as if to regain his thoughts. He turns away from Grian to close the file with a soft click.

“Umm…For like at least five years…” He hesitantly remarks. It is hard to really remember when he and Pearl had shown up after he got kicked out of foster care (Pearl had only been 15 at the time, but he had made sure to grab her before anyone went looking.) They had taken a one way ticket to the biggest city they knew of and started being vigilantes to follow in Crows footsteps. What good that did…Now he has nobody.

“Then you must live under a rock G. Comere, look.” He huffs a sad laugh under his breath as he leads Grian out the way they came and into one of the other doors along the hallway.

Scar holds his arm out pointing to the walls of the revealed connected hallway. Grians eyes widen and he steps to where Scar presents. Along the whole length of the hall are paintings of all past and present Heros. Each had ornate frames that were somehow related to their power, like the now retired Hero TFC who had empath powers along with a few minor telekinesis powers. His frame had swirls and deep blues and purples with seemingly floating flowers around the sides.

Continuing his path down he kept looking back and forth at each painting on either side of the hall. He takes note of several of the portraits. They look candid, like they had to sit and pose while they were painted. Why they didn't just take a picture, Grian didn't know. He saw Teks picture, gilded in flames that somehow didn't burn the paper or smoke up the room. StarVoids frame was so dark it looked like it was cropped out of existence. Grian decided not to look at it too long.

He continues his slow moving jaunt down the hallway, until he gets halfway down the hall where he's stopped in his tracks. There, painted directly on the wall from floor to ceiling was a mural containing five figures. Shockingly, three of the five faces were painted over with black paint, covering their eyes and distinguishing facial features.

They were all lined up and posed in a way that Grian could only assume was a mid-laugh shot. He recognized a younger looking HotGuy on the furthest right. He held his signature bow in one hand while his other was up covering his mouth as he laughed. A few of the scars Grian were used to seeing had disappeared. His outfit was different as well. Where now he wears a lot of black with patches of blues and oranges, such as his logo, in this mural he was dressed in a long deep green robe. It was loose, wrapped around his waist showing a deep 'v' down his chest. Detailed with gold accents and lace. A slit up to side showed off his knee high gold and green matching boots. His hair was much, much longer as well, tied in a braid draped over his shoulder. But even with all of that, the most notable difference to Grian, was his signature sunglasses were missing, though his eyes were closed mid laugh.

Next to HotGuy was a person with a womanly figure. She was dressed in a dark blue skin tight bodysuit that went from her neck to her knees. She had a hooded capelet thrown around her shoulders that seemed frozen mid movement, yet she didn't seem to have been moving in her pose. She had her hands up by her head grasping like a clawing cat, and feet planted firmly on the ground. Her hair was flowing around her shoulders, also floating. The capelet was painted with intricate moon phases, along with her body suit which had stars as well. The shadow cast by her frame seemed darker than the rest of them.

On the furthest left was a bulkier male figure dressed in mostly yellow and black. There was a big yellow ‘i’ on the front of his shirt which had a resemblance to the one HotGuy wore now. The man had a yellow flowing shall reaching from one shoulder to the other held together with a brooch made of some sort of gem. He wore baggy pants cuffed around his ankles with a utility belt holding what looked to be potions and other gear. He was painted with his head turned to the other and his arm behind his head, as if nervously scratching his neck.

To his side was another male figure, taller than the rest. He was dressed in black slacks with a white dress shirt tucked in. A red tie sat across his front, possibly a bit too tight. He had a matching suit jacket thrown over his shoulder with one hand while the other was resting on his popped out hip. He was also looking at the rest of the group in what Grian hoped was a smile.

In the center of them all was a figure that made Grians air catch in his throat, but he could piece together why. The person was shorter, and their figure was covered in heavy looking purple and white robes. They were looking directly forward, and was the only face other than HotGuys whose face wasn't painted over in black. But it didn't need to be as a white mask covered their whole face. Painted on the slate was the Hero Associations Watcher logo, in purple. How the person behind the mask could even see, is beyond Grian. But the most catching part of the entire mural was the person's pure white wings stretched over the entire group, blanketing them all in safety.

He couldn't look away from the painting. Something in his chest yearned for what was here, and he didn't know why. Something was missing. Something so crucial but his brain would just stop going forward whenever he thought about it for too long. Something. Is. Missing.

“This is Team Boatem,” Grian jumped back, not even realizing he had gotten so close to the painting in the first place. He didn't even hear Scar side up to him. What was he thinking about? “The first, only and last crime fighting group the Hero Association ever put together. We were the face of the Hero Association. The golden children.” He goes to the first figure on the painting, himself. “You know who this is,” He laughs, though it sounds self-deprecating. “I was a new Hero. Freshly trainted from the intern program. I was shocked they let me into a project such as Boatem. Such big shoes to fill.” Grian feels like he's hearing something he shouldn't. Something HotGuy won't ever admit to, but Scar doesn't seem to have as much reservation.

He continues to the person next to him, not continuing the train of thought about young HotGuy. “This is MoonLight. She was scouted along with the rest of Boatem as vigilantes. She had- has,” he quickly corrects, “this really cool shadow manipulation power. Could basically teleport and create anything from thin air. She's so powerful.” Grian scrunched his nose slightly. He immediately thinks of his sister and her less than stellar shadow manipulation. Maybe in a different world he could have introduced Pearl to this MoonLight, and she would have taught Pearl how to use it to such strength. (He has many memories of helping Pearl preen her undergrown wings while she practiced to just make a shadow bend slightly. While shadow manipulation is one of the most common powers, it is extremely difficult to master. When they found out Pearl had that power they rented every book for the library, and last Grian had seen her she was still barely getting a hold of it.)

“Next to her is,” He pauses, looking over to Grian. “...This is her best friend, Watcher. He is basically the voice of the group. His wings are so powerful he could lift us all off the ground with one wing beat. We still don't know if his power is super wings or if it's just an Avian thing. Projectiles of any kind would just bounce off. MoonLight and him were attached at the hip. Couldn't see one without the other trailing behind.” Grian feels a pang of pain zip through his heart. He misses Pearl so much.

Shaking his head to rid his mind of such depressing thoughts (he will find her. All of them.) he comprehends what Scar had said about the wings, that doesn't sound like any Avian that Grian has heard of, but also he's only ever met Crow, Pearl and his parents. So he doesn't really know many Avians. His wings certainly don't do that. He had been on the receiving end of a stray dagger one to many times for that to be proven.

“Beside Watcher is M- uhh RedStone.”

“Redstone? Like the fancy wire tech?” Grian interrupts without thinking, tilting his head to the side (while he hears Scars stumble in words, he deftly chooses to ignore it.). Scar just huffs a disbelieving laugh.

“You really have been under a rock. Sure you didn't get hit too hard on the streets?” He shakes his head as Grian delivers an offended squawk. “Yes, like the tech. But he had the name first. RedStone was so good at making machines and useful gadgets on the go that his name became one and the same with D.U.S.T, the actual name for redstone. Don't ask me what that stands for. RedStone has told me a million times and I'll never understand.”

“Dominant Utility of Static Transference.” Grian states without even blinking. His mouth moves before his brain, having heard Mumbo talk his ear off about D.U.S.T years ago.

“I thought you said you've never heard of it before?” Scars asks, taken aback at his quick response.

“I don't. You just… reminded me of a friend who does.” He turns his head away looking at the floor. He never thought he would actually miss Mumbos D.U.S.T. rants. When the shapeshifting vigilante had started to pick up books on the stuff Grian remembers how often he'd have to drag him away from his 3 A.M. projects to actually sleep. He was actually pretty adept at it, before he disappeared. Grian just knows that the amount of osmosis information he must have picked up just from Mumbos mumbling rants must be wild. Ranting must be a common trait of those D.U.S.T. fellas, if the way Scar stalks about this RedStone guy is anything to go by.

“Every redstone master you've ever heard of, RedStone paved the way for them. He's the original master.” Scar continues to stare wistfully at the mural, before singing and looking at the last Hero.

“This is I-Mighty. He hates his name.” Scar suddenly laughs. “We just call him Mighty. You can assume that he wasn't the one to pick out his name. He isn't too bad at redstone either, but his power is super strength and in direct opposition to MoonLight, he has some minor light manipulation in there too. He likes that power way more than being strong.” Grian remembers the way Impulse used to spend hours training his powers. Much like shadow manipulation, light manipulation is also very common, and hard to master. Impulse would sit in the sun, reaching for the rays to try and bend it. It makes sense that this I-Mighty couldn't master it if they had such a useful power as super strength.

“Those four,” Scar continues, “had been a group for around three years before I was added, I was the last to join the group. Didn't get to spend much time with them before…” He reached up and touched the wings of the center Hero.

“Before?” Grian asked softly, also raising his hand to trace the outside of the Hero's wings. He's seen many wing shapes from Avians over the years. While they are an increasingly rare hybrid, he had read a lot of books that showed off every known patterning. After all, each Avian has some bird descendant where they get their wings from. This Hero has the shape of a crow, but is pure white. A white crow. How interesting.

“Before,” Scar let his hand drop with a sigh. He looked like he was debating something in his mind. He turned his head and scanned Grian up and down, but when he reached Grians eyes he apparently didn't find what he was looking for. His face hardened and he took a step away from the wall. “They disappeared one day three years ago. Nobody knows what happened. I was in my room and they all got called for a meeting, not unusual for the four of them to get called and not me. I had been with them for barely two years so I was still new I guess. But they just…didn't come back.”

Call it a hunch, but Grian doesn't feel like he's getting the full story. Scar seems to be relaying this story to him as if it was written on cue cards in front of him. Stilted and rehearsed. As if he doesn't believe the story he is telling.

“You…Don't believe that do you?” He hesitantly asks, dropping his hand to his side. He steps away from the mural so he can see the full picture. A beautifully painted depiction of friends and Heroes, disgraced by someone painting over their faces. Harsh black lines hastily painted over their features, obscuring anything that could remotely identify them.

“I don't know what to believe. It's what we've all been told.” Scar says, clipped. He stalks next to Grian, pausing to stand next to him gazing at the mural as well. They stand in silence together before Grian finally speaks up.

“Well just because that's what you've been told doesn't mean that's what actually happened.” Grian replies nonchalantly, shrugging his shoulders as he puts his hands in his pockets.

Scar slowly turns his head to stare down at Grian with a confused look. Grian feels like a puzzle being solved under his gaze, but remains still. Scar turns his head slightly to look up at the ceiling, as if looking for something.

“You shouldnt give me false hope. Not very nice.” He speaks quietly.

“It's not false if I believe it. I-...” Grian stops short, breathing in deeply. “I know some things about searching for missing family members. It's never false hope if someone believes in it.”

“I've been-” Scar stops abruptly, eyes scanning around the walls more intensely. He's looking in the corners and around Grian as if paranoid someone is watching or listening. He leans in close to Grian, close enough Grian feels his breath on his neck, be he stays still. “I’ve been looking for three years, Grian. False hope is all I have left.” He says shakily.

A lot of things are clicking into place in Grians mind as he hears Scar speak. Why it seems Scar knows the organization of the archive a little too well. The way Scar knows so much about Avians and their needs. The mask of brava he puts on in front of people. Maybe it's pity, or maybe understanding, possibly a mix of both, but Grian finds himself speaking before thinking.

“I’ll help you. I’ll help you find them.” He hears himself say to Scar, equally as quiet. It causes Scar to suck in a sharp breath and hold it, frozen in place. “Help me find my family, and I’ll help you find yours.” Grian reaches a hand up and places it on Scar's shoulder, pushing him away to look into his face. He looks almost devastated, a single tear falling and curling around his jaw.

“Nobody believes me.” He breathes heavily.

“I have nobody to believe me. Let's believe in each other.”

“Okay…okay. I…want to trust you. But- but I can't tell you the full story yet. I just…I can't.”

“That's okay. We can work on it. It's getting late, and I’ve had enough emotionally devastating conversations for the night. Why don't we regroup tomorrow? Search these archives a bit more. Two sets of eyes is better than one.” Grian smiles up at Scar, who seems to deflate a bit, shoulders dropping with a long sigh.

“Yeah that's probably for the best. Let's get out of here.” Scar takes a small step out of Grians space, shaking his hands out at his sides. He's still hunched over slightly, a few strands of his typically slicked back hair are falling in front of his face. He takes a few calming breaths before wiping the tear away.

Grian feels…something in his chest. A warm feeling traveling from his lungs to his heart then his throat. He feels his wings twitch behind himself, flexing slowly. While focusing on getting his damn wings still, Grian doesn't realize he's lifted his hand brushing Scars hair behind his ear with a calming coo.

Scar froze as Grian realized what he had done. Clearing his throat, cutting off any more bird noises, he takes a full step away from Scar. He feels the tips of his ears burn and his wings give one more valiant attempt at reaching out from behind him before he finally regains his mind.

Suddenly, he hears a soft laugh. Looking up with a small scowl, he sees Scar hiding his smile behind his hand shaking his head.

“You don't have to hide your Avian tendencies, Grian. Trust me, I’m used to it, if not a few years removed.” He turns on his heel, back facing Grian. He watches as he lifts his glasses into his hair, rubbing his eyes with his palms, before replacing the glasses back on his nose.

Waiting for Grian to start walking with him, the two leave the way they came and get into the elevator. Like last time Scar is the one to use the thumbprint scanner, waiting for the doors to close and lift them back into the training room halls.

Grian thinks of what Scar said, about not having to hide himself. While realistically he knows that the world is a very different place then the one he grew up in, he was still worried about being in the way. It had to be annoying to deal with weird birdy traits… But Scar was friends with that Watcher Hero, and if they were an Avian then maybe at least Scar wouldn't care too much. It’ll still be hard to transition to suppressing all of his instincts to suddenly letting them go. Maybe if he just lets a few squawks and chirps out on purpose then he goes back to feeling fine. Yeah that seemed good. Probably.

Coming back out of his mind, he must have been quiet for too long. Scar decides to break the silence Grian didn't even realize must have been awkward.

“So…you were trying to break into restricted areas on purpose.” He cheekily asks.

“Pfft! Of course! The archive has all crime ever in Hermit Empire and you expect me not to use it for my own personal gain? The Hero Association needs better security.” He laughs, crossing his arms.

“I think they need to hire less snoopy birds.” Scar quips back.

“Hey! I’ll have you know you just let me walk in there! You are just as much an accomplice!”

“Damn right! I'm the best accom- akcomm- aw-com-police!” He stutters though the word slightly, making Grian smile. This HotGuy might actually turn out to be an okay accomplice. Or maybe he should say Scar is the accomplice. He has yet to see HotGuy be anything more than an ass. But who knows, maybe this alliance will be good for both of them.

Chapter Text

It was the last day of his little week off when Grian heard the knock at his door. The sun had just gone down, lights almost just having to be turned on to see what he was doing. He was sitting at the bar in his kitchen doodling in a notebook he had found in one of the drawers. He looks up from his rendition of the Hero Tower to the clock on the wall.

Seeing the time, he smiles slightly. He knew exactly who was behind the door. This whole week since that first day, Scar had been showing up to “break into” the archive basement again. It had been their nightly gig. Though Grian would say they didn't do much perusing of the off-limits paperwork as much as they goofed off and looked into other Heroes embarrassing baby photos.

At some point during the week Grian gave up finding any relevant information while Scar was there. Not that Scar was watching him, but he was very good at being distracting. Every time Grian went off on his own Scar would find a mission document from one of the Heros that was particularly embarrassing (while he was a little disappointed in not finding anything helpful, he wouldn't trade the knowledge of a young Queen of Hearts being knocked out by an old lady with a particularly heavy hand bag for anything.)

That wasn't the only thing Grian did the whole week. He spent a majority of the daylight walking around the building trying to commit every hallway to memory. He could say with relative confidence that now he knew how to get around without the help of the Heros giving him directions. Sometimes Scar joined him for these walks as well. Grian felt that maybe, just maybe he made a friend here. (He is ignoring the fact that if two weeks ago someone had told him he would be friends with the superhero HotGuy, he would have laughed so hard he would've been in stitches. But here he is, offering not only his help but awaiting a visit from him with a smile on his face. But then again, after not having anyone for three years, they both might need a friend.)

Shoving himself off the stool Grian made his way to the front door, slipping his boots on before opening the door. Scar was excitedly bouncing from foot to foot with a smile painted across his face. He held his hands to his chest playing with his fingers absently. He was wearing different clothes than Grian was expecting. Usually he was in mid-casual, as they were just messing around away from any foot traffic. But tonight he was dressed much like when he first went into the basement; he was in workout clothes. Noticing the confusion of Grians face, Scar answered the unspoken question.

“Tomorrow is your debut and our first real patrol out, so I figured we could go to the training room and maybe see how we work around each other a bit.” He shifted his hands to behind his back, leaning forwards a bit.

Grian let his hand drop from the door handle, feeling maybe just slightly disappointed. He liked going into the archives. He would be messing around, while also hoping to stumble onto some information. But he supposed since he knew how to get in there now he could actually break in alone if he needed too.

Plus Scar might have a point. They didn't train at all together this week. And while them being on good terms was great for them being partners, they still didn't know how each other moved around while fighting.

“Okay, but I think I need to change first.” He spoke, leaving the door open as he left to go to his room. Scar followed behind him, shutting the door and leaning his hip against the couch as he waited.

Going to his closest he started to shuffle through the clothes. He’ll admit, Cub had really given him several outfits for any and all occasions. It didn't take him long to find some comfortable workout clothes. It was a cute baby pink tank top and some loose fitting black and blue basketball shorts. He had also found some nice matching tennis shoes as well.

“You know!” Scar started speaking, raising his voice to be heard through the walls as Grian started to change. “We probably should have been doing this this whole week. Training, that is.”

Grian scoffed to himself, raising his voice as well to answer back as he leaned down to tie his shoes.

“Yeah yeah but I rather enjoyed walking around and actually knowing where I’m going.” He stood back up hearing Scar laugh from the room over. He made sure to grab his bow and quiver he had leaning against his bed, then walking out of his room he smiled as Scar replaced his glasses over his closed, smile lined eyes. When he firmly placed them back over his eyes, he jumped and gasped seeing Grian was already in front of him. He raised his hand grasping at his heart. Grian threw his head back and cackled.

“I didn't even hear you leave your room! How are you so quiet you Pesky Bird!” He huffed a few breaths trying to calm his heart while Grian giggled at him. This felt nice. He missed being able to just joke and have fun with people.

“Yeah yeah laugh it up! Just wait for the training room, I’ll be running laps around you!”

“Oh yeah, I bet. But I’ll be flying laps around you!” He countered, fluffing his wings up. It still made him a little self conscious to purposefully bring attention to them, but this is Scar. And he knew Avians before so this should be fine.

“Ha ha! I'm sure you will! Let's get goin’ and see then!” Together they walked to the front door, Scar swung the door open, stepping out without waiting for Grian.

Shaking his head, Grian decided to ignore Scars isms and just follow the man. He closed his door behind himself, jogging to catch up with Scar who had already made it to the elevator.

“Slow down! We’re in no rush!” Grian huffed. Scar just laughed in response. He turned his head to look down at Grian with his nicely painted smile.

“I know. But I haven't been training all week and I still need to tell you how all of this Hero stuff is going to work for us now. So, why not multitask! Ask me anything!”

“Anything?” Grian asked with a mischievous smirk. Scar titled his head to the side and, what Grian can only assume, squinted his eyes at him.

“Within reason, PeakyBird.” He huffed back.

“Aww well that's no fun. I was gonna ask who your favorite and least favorite Hero is.” He crosses his arms with a smile. Scar just leans against the wall, also crossing his arms.

“If if I had an answer for that, I wouldn't tell you. Ask me about the Hero stuff G, I know everythin’ there is to know about being a Hero, since I am the best one.” He replies smoothly, placing a flourishing hand on his puffed out chest.

“Don't be going all HotGuy on me now. I just met Scar, I’d like to keep him around.” He jokes with a laugh.

Scar, though, didn't seem to get the joke. Or at least he doesn't seem to find it funny. Because he tightens his crossed arms, making it seem more like a self hug than anything. Grians smile fades a bit, but before he can even ask Scar drops his arms and whips on a truly dazzling smile. Grian feels a bit like he's gotten whiplash.

“I can't say I know what youre talking about.” He says with every ounce of brava that is in HotGuys typically cadence.

Okay, well that's not going to do. If Scar wants Grian to ask him about being a Hero, then he will ask him about being a Hero.

“Why are you acting like that?” Okay, that came out wrong. Scar must have thought the same thing as he barked a startled laugh.

“What,” He paused to take a short breath. “What do you mean?” He continued to smile.

“You are acting very HotGuy right now, and not very Scar. Like, over confident and stuff. Is that part of this?” He asks, squinting his eyes at Scar. It seemed like Scar finally got the question as he just froze a little. His smile dropped a bit and he turned his head away. He sighed.

“Yeah, yeah I’d say it's part of it.” The elevator took the perfect time to ‘ding’ along with the doors opening. Scar hurried out first, cutting off any continuation of his answer he ever might have had. Ah, so he was avoiding being real in front of Grian. Well that still won't do. It's no fun to be around HotGuy, he wanted to be hanging out with Scar.

“Are you nervous for tomorrow?” Spoke up, hurrying to catch up to Scar.

“Pfft! Me? Nervous? Honestly I should be asking you that.” Scar continued to look forward as he pushed the doors to the training room open. He held it open for a second longer than he needed to for Grian to follow him. But still, kept his eyes forward as they walked to their shared space.

At this time at night it was completely empty. Usually when Grian meandered through here during the day there was always at least one person. But right now there was nobody except the two of them.

Honestly Grian was trying not to really think about tomorrow. He didn't have a plan for getting this far. He planned on getting in, getting information, then leaving. And now he not only doesn't have that information but he also somehow got himself into a promise to help Scar. He's been deftly ignoring thinking about tomorrow all week, maybe he should actually take this time to ask real questions about it…

“Ugh fine! I’m a little nervous..” Grian rushed out and he noticed Scars shoulders drop slowly as he admitted it. He released a drawn out sigh before finally turning to look down at Grian.

“I…” He looked around at his surroundings as if searching for something, much like the day in the archives before he told Grian about Team Boatem. What was he looking for? “I am a little nervous too. But! I know what I’m doing! So I will help you! Do you have any questions?” His smile came back, looking more real.

“Hmm,” Grian had to think. Clearly Scar didn't want to answer the question about why he was so different from HotGuy… “You never answered my first question.” He settled on holding back a laugh, which he immediately let out as Scar groaned.

“I meant normal questions like what the hours are like and what patrol routes are not trying to gossip!” He throws his hands in the air as if annoyed, but Grian can see his smile. Good.

“Come on,” He holds out the ‘o’ putting on whining, “You have to have an answer!”

“Oh my Gods fine!” Grian celebrates by jumping in front of Scar and twisting around to walk backwards with a little ‘yes!’ “My favorite is me and my least favorite is you!” Grian realizes he celebrated too early and immediately pouts.

“That doesn't count! I’m not even a Hero!” He spins back around so his back faces Scar. He only feels a little self conscious. He hears Scar burst out laughing and feels himself smile knowing Scar cant see it.

“I'd say it counts just fine! As you are certainly a Hero now! No going back.” He laughs.

They finally come up upon their training sector looking much the same as he last saw it. Scars platform pillars randomly placed around the whole area, all at different heights and lengths from each other. The targets seemed a bit more used as well. He lifts his head to look at the hanging hoops against, he feels his wings twitch seeing the hoops hung so high above the ground (he could see that the hoops definitely were hung up all around the whole training room, but way more concentrated over Scars designated area. He can assume who these hoops used to belong to.) He hasn't been flying since his freak out in front of Scar and Cub. He had not been too keen on flying around and possibly someone saying something about said freak out. But really not flying for over a week is not something his bird brain likes much at all.

“I wasn't lying when I said you can fly up there.” Scar said from directly behind him, making him jump with a startled chirp.

“Payback is fair play Birdy, but really, go ahead. We are here to train after all. Warm up a bit, shoot some targets, show me what you've got.” He waved his arm, gesturing to the large air space.

While he very much wanted to just take his word for it and take off into the air, he was still a bit hesitant to just jump into it. Plus, he still had to ask Scar some questions about all the Hero business for tomorrow. He shook his head trying to clear his thoughts before looking up at Scar.

He opened his mouth to dispute the flying permission, but paused when he saw Scar face. It was as if he was expecting Grian to say something in the negative about it. He looked a little disappointed, a thin line between his pinched eyebrows accompanied by a small frown. When he noticed Grians gaze, he softened a bit.

Okay, maybe since there was nobody here, and he was itching to fly, maybe he would just do a few laps. He wouldn't want to bog down Scars practice anyway. Warming up would benefit them both. So with a soft huff, Grian turned his head to the ceiling.

“Okay fine, but you better be warming up too.” He didn't wait for Scar's answer before shooting up as fast as he could into the empty air. He could hear his startled laugh as he flapped his wings harder to gain more air though.

Ignoring him, he finally reached the rings suspended at several heights hooked to the ceiling. Holding himself steady he studies the path ahead of him. Below himself he sees a few of the raised pillars he assumes are for Scar to jump along, there are targets everywhere. Looking back at the hoops, smiles as he pulls a few arrows from the quiver on his back. Best to grab a few then have to keep reaching between his wings for more.

Pointing his bow at one of the closer targets he shoots a straight bullseye laughing to himself. This will be fun.

He shoots off through the first hoop with ease, turning to his back facing the ground so he can shoot at a few of the targets above him. Leaning further back he used gravity to fall through another hoop, pulling his wings and feet closer so neither of them got caught. Twisting back he saw he was getting closer to the pillars so he spread his wings getting more air to swiftly careen back up and through some of the smaller hoops.

He made sure to get through every hoop at some point while hitting the targets whenever he felt the need. Most every shot was a dead center shot, except a few. And each one of those he made sure to recreate the circumstances and try again until he got it perfect.

He forgot how fun practicing could be. He didn't do it too often when he became a vigilante. Most of that practice was just doing that, and if there ever was a mistake, he corrected it for next time. He did have that old junkyard (he remembers searching for anything even remotely looking like targets to hit, then setting them up all over there. It also had the added benefits that he could only practice there at night, so shooting at night wasn't an issue.) but nothing as fancy as this.

He was so caught up in his own fun that when an arrow hit a target that he was aiming at, he startled mid air, dropping a bit of altitude. He snapped his head to look where it came from to see a smiling Scar standing on the tallest pillar. He had nocked another arrow and was pointing it at a target a few hoops away from Grian.

Oh. So that's how this was going to be.

Grian smiled wider and pulled more arrows out before aiming at the same target, shooting before Scar, taking the bullseye. He then tucked into a barrel roll speeding towards Scar at an alarming rate. Well, alarming for anyone but him.

He watched as the smile on Scars face slowly fell and was replaced with a panicked look as he watched Grian get closer and closer. But Grian made sure to miss Scars pillar flying past him. Causing Scar to look down past his feet to discover Grian was gone, only for Grian to have changed his course and flared his wings out causing him to shoot up behind Scar. The strength of the wind almost knocked him over as Grian cackled into the air.

Scars face followed him as he flew through a few more rings and shot a few more targets around the stunned Hero. Suddenly he sees his face harden with a smile. He jumps from pillar to pillar seemingly effortlessly. As he does he will sometimes raise his bow to the skies and shoot at a target around Grian. They weren't aiming at each other at all, just to the targets that each other might be trying to hit, trying to hit it first.

After Scar steals his fifth target, Grian grows a bit frustrated at the Hero. Come on! He has the high ground. How does he know where he's going to shoot! Looking around he remembers seeing the tight ropes stretched across the corners of the training room. Smirking, he turns his attention down to the Hero currently climbing up one of the taller pillars, bow hanging off his belt as he uses both hands to scale the tower.

Following his lead, Grian pulls his bow over his head and past one arm. It wasn't how it usually is when he pulled it over his shoulder since he was flying and couldn't put it past one of the wings. But it was fine being like this for a few minutes.

Watching Scar finally reach the top of the pillar, he positions himself to be behind him. Scar lifts his head to try and find where he is, but upon not seeing him he takes some time to pull more arrows from his thigh quiver and unlatch his bow from his belt.

Smiling wider, Grian takes this opportunity to pull his wings in close, once again using gravity to his advantage as he quickly gets closer and closer to Scars unsuspecting form. He was getting closer and closer and when he was closing in on the last 20 feet or so, Scar finally looked up and turned slightly trying to find Grian.

Grian watched with unrestrained laughter as Scar finally turned enough to catch sight of Grian over his shoulder, but by then it was too late. His eyes went wide as he tried to take a hasty step forward but Grian had already thrown his arms out colliding with the center of his back. The force threw them both off the pillar, but Grian pulled Scar to his chest and thrust his wings to their full length, throwing them both into open air.

Scar yelped upon initial contact, and was now holding onto Grians arms like his life depended on it. His bow was still tightly grasped in his one hand, but he dropped the arrows.

“Grian!” He shouted the higher Grian was taking him. He was originally going to set Scar on the tightrope and make him find his own way down, but he changed his mind, passing the ropes and continuing higher and higher. When he first got there he remembered thinking that the girder bars lining the ceiling looked really nice to perch on. And maybe all this flying was making him not of the sanest, most human, mind.

Slowing slightly he dropped Scar onto the few foot wide steel beams, landing next to him with a satisfied chirp. Scar, who had landed on his stomach, quickly pulled his feet over the edge and clambered backwards until his back hit one of the supporting pillars to his right.

His hair was all messed up and looked like a bird's nest, how fitting. He was breathing quickly looking between Grian and the floor. He had a double handed grip on his bow, holding it to his chest as if it would guarantee his safety.

Seeing how disheveled he looked, Grian bent over laughing harder than he had in a while. It was a chirpy mess of giggles and cackles ending in him falling over on his back, his wings spilling over the sides of the steel. He heard Scar make a startled noise as he finally sat up to face him.

His face was red, his cheeks a rose color stretching to his ears. He was decidedly keeping his eyes away from the edge of the beam, now that Grian was seated in front of him. He seemed so nervous…oh. Oh! The realization was so sudden that Grian barked a laugh not even he expected.

“You-,” He continued to giggle, “A-are you sca-scared of heights Scar?” He asks, scooting closer to him.

“What!” He seemed so offreoned that Grian would even ask, yet he didn't take his eyes off of Grian. “Of course not! I jump from skyscraper to skyscraper quite frequently I’ll have you know! And my platforms down there! I’m always high! Higher than a kite! Wait.” He paused his rant as Grian again ascended in another laughing fit. He had to wipe away a few tears before addressing Scar again.

“If you aren't scared then why won't you look down?” He questioned, purposefully leaning really far over the edge, just to see Scar panic a bit.

“I-I just don't like being…so close to the edge without a way down.” He stuttered, going even more red.

A memory of Scar the night before the audition comes to Grians mind of when he avoided the edge of the roof. Grian didn't know how he was able to be a Hero this long without it coming out he was scared of heights but here they were. He decided to throw Scar a bone, no longer having as much fun if Scar was actually scared.

“I’m right here. I’m your way down, so no need to worry!” He tweeted, still happy about how high up he was.

Somehow, that seemed to work as Scars face softened and he loosened up a bit. He still refused to take his eyes off of Grian, but he seemed much less stiff. Taking his eyes off of Scar, Grian surveyed the area now that he was as high as he could get. He could see every Heros section along with the communal equipment. He could see everything up here.

Turning back to Scar, he saw him finally shift his eyes away from Grian and too look around where they were. By moving his head Grian saw the pillar behind him, which seemed to have writing on it. On the white painted pillar a myriad of colors that Grian couldn't quite make out. He tried getting a closer look but he didn't want to crowd too close to Scar.

“Hey,” He spoke, startling Scar enough to where he overcorrected almost going over the edge. But with a shout Grians hand shot out, grabbing onto his shirt, steading him. Scar let out a nervous laugh, planting his palms onto the beam with his bow under his hand.

“Yes?” He asked, keeping his eyes from looking back down again.

“Look,” Grian kept his hand close to Scar in case he decided to almost take another trip over the edge. He raised his other hand to point behind Scar. “Someone has been up here before.”

Scar looked past his shoulder, scooting a bit away from the pillar and closer to Grian, who shifted back to make more room. Now that Grian could see it clearly, graffiti would be putting it best. Messy written messages overlapping in some places along with a few crude drawings that Grian couldn't help but giggle at. But Scar froze when he saw it, letting out a shaky breath.

Titling his head to the side, he watched as Scar raised a shaky hand touching the pillar. Reading it, Grian finally realized what he was looking at.

It read: “MoonLight and Watcher were here!” and “Red smells like redstone” and “I saw Mighty kissing 77” along with a bunch of other phrases. These were the handwritten messages of the now missing Team Boatem.

Eyes scanning the pillar, Scar suddenly starts to laugh quietly, though it sounds a little choked. Grian scans his face but just sees a sad smile.

“I've been up here once before you know. G-um- Watcher wanted everyone to leave their mark here since he spent a lot of his time up here. But when he found out I didn't like heights he didn't make me come up here again. I wish he would have.” He huffs a short sigh.

“I’m…sorry for making you come up here then..” Grian breathes, plopping himself close to Scar, leaning close to read more of the graffiti.

“Don't apologize! Really. I’m…I'm glad to see this again. Maybe next time though tell me you are bringing me up here.” He spoke, not taking his eyes off the messages. They both stayed silent as they read through them, every once in a while one of them would laugh at something they had read or saw. Then Scar spoke up.

“You know,” He paused to laugh, “this one right here?” He pointed to the line about Mighty kissing 77, which Grian got a good laugh out of. “He didn't really kiss 77. But once when Boatem was fighting him off, those two got trapped in a room together and nobody could find them for a few hours. This was in the middle of a dead winter, there were negative numbers out and we were getting worried. It was me and Moon who found them. When we finally opened the door, those two were huddled together to stay warm. We were so shocked that 77 escaped before we could do anything, Moon and I immediately started to tease Mighty. We tried to spread a rumor that we saw them kiss. Didn't get very far, but we found it funny.” He had a sad laugh, shaking his head slightly before turning his head to look at Grian. It was a cute story, lords know he has plenty of those kinds of stories with his family too.

“What did Mighty think?” He asked, smiling encouragingly at Scar. His face broke out into a wide smile as he barked a laugh.

“He hated it. It was the reason the rumor didn't go far. His face would get so red and he’d throw whoever said it over his shoulder and walk them out of the room. Sometimes he’d just toss them across the room onto a couch or something. Never stopped us though.” Grian could tell his eyes were smile lined as he spoke of his friends.

“Here's mine.” Scar spoke, leaning over to the side and pointing at a message toward the bottom. It was written in bold blue paint marker saying, “Watchers mask is creepy! There I said it!” It wasn't signed with ‘Scar’ or even ‘HotGuy’ but by ‘Tycoon.’

“‘Tycoon’?” Grian questions quietly. He shits back to look at Scar, tilting his head in question.

“My..old Hero name, before Boatem disappeared. When they were not found after a few weeks, they decided that I would become the new face for the Association. So they changed my name, cut my hair, changed my outfit and made me, well, HotGuy. Someone that everyone would love and the media would always believe. They hired Cub around that time to help me and stuff.” Looks sadly back at the pillar. “I did like my name though. That was back when they would let you keep your name if they liked it. I was lucky to keep mine unlike Mighty.” He laughed. “Little luck I had with that now though.” He sounded slightly bitter in a way Grian didn't like.

“That name doesn't really go with your power though…” Grian points out. “Not that I'm trying to defend the Association! I'm not the biggest fan of CuteGuy but…HotGuy who has a sharp eye… like a hawk?” He nervously adds. Luckily Scar didn't seem to take it the wrong way as he laughed before looking at Grian with a small smile.

“The word play is great, but I just liked my old name. Plus, my power isn't a sharpshooter, so the double meaning doesn't really make sense.” He said looking off in the distance.

“Then what is it?” Grian asks, taken aback, speaking before thinking. Everyone knew HotGuys power was a crack shot. He never missed. It was why he had his quiver on his thigh, Grian imagined. Wouldn't matter where he got the arrow if it would always land.

“Ah, that's the big question isn't it. Don't worry about it, it doesn't work very well anyways.” He sighed, finally looking back at Grian. He seemed a bit far away. Grian frowns as he watches him. He didn't expect this trip to become so melancholy. Looking at the ground below them, he traces the edges of the pillars and targets with his eyes. He assumes Scar didn't expect this as well.

He suddenly feels a bit bad. He had been brought here by Scar to help him through tomorrow, ask him questions and such yet he decided to indulge in flying and having fun. He feels his wings droop sadly at the realization. He can fix this!

“Um-!” He so eloquently started, gaining Scars attention, “Tomorrow. What are we going to do?” He asks lightly.

Scars face stretched into a small, grateful smile when he looked at Grian. Grian just smiled back, hoping to turn the mood up.

“Well, first thing in the morning will be your debut on all the news channels and in front of a crowd. I’ll give a speech, then you might have to as well. It's up to you. But it's where you kind of announce what your personality is and how you are going to be as a Hero!”

“H-how many people?” He was beginning to accept the fact that he would be in the public light. It was unavoidable really, being partnered with Scar. But that didn't change the fact he wasn't used to it.

“Well, most people will probably be watching on tv. But I know that Hero debuts don't happen all that often. The last one was mine, so a lot of people might come in person too. At least half the city will be watching from somewhere.” He says waving his hands nonchalantly.

“That's like two million people!” His jaw drops and his eyes widen.

“Yup!” He laughs, but upon seeing Grians distressed face, he amends, “But don't worry! I’ll be there with you! When I had mine I was all alone since I was the new solo Hero, you are just a sidekick for now so I will accompany you whenever you are outside the building.” As much as Grian didn't like the idea of always being accompanied, at least in this instance he could begrudgingly admit that maybe he was glad Scar was with him. Someone who at least knew what they were doing and would also cover for him if something went wrong or if he did something wrong.

“B-but! I’m not even a Hero. Why have a Hero debut for a sidekick? You just said that they don't happen often for solo Heros, I’m not becoming a Hero.” It didn't make sense why so many people were interested in him. He wasn't the only one who had just gotten accepted through the audition. While he didn't know Keralis and xB very well, he hadn't heard a word on whether or not they were getting a debut.

“What about Keralis? Or xB?” He pointed out questioningly.

“Well,” Scar turns his head to the ceiling, thinking while tiling his head either way. “Heroes kinda work on a ranking basis. It's a two step process based on how powerful you are and then how many villains you have defeated slash just how successful you are. Keralis and xB were picked up by StarVoid and KoH respectively. Xisuma is number two, Beef is number four. I've been sitting at number one since Boatem disappeared. And because of that, everything that I do requires public attention. Nobody will ever be able to take me over, not that they would really want too. As for Keralis and xB, ‘Suma and Beef could debut them, but it wouldn't have as much fanfare from the Association. Plus, they also get to train them much longer than you. Lucky for me, I only get the best of the best when it comes to a sidekick.” Somehow, that was the most sarcastic comment Grian had ever heard the man utter even when talking about a serious topic.

“Hey!” He chirped, getting onto his knees to lean over and hit Scars arms and push his back against the post. Scar just laughed, lifting his hands in a vain attempt to protect himself from the defensive attack. Grian flet his wings open widely to keep balance, finding himself smiling as well.

“Okay okay! I yield!” Scar giggled as Grian finally sat back crossing his arms with an put-on annoyed coo.

“I am the best sidekick thank you!”

“I’m sure you are! Anyways,” He expertly moved along before Grian attempted a second hit, “With me being number one, you'll essentially be number one with me. It's a big deal when someone like me gets a sidekick. Other than Boatem, I don't think there has ever been a number one who has taken on a one. So this is a pretty big deal and nobody will know about it until midnight tonight when the pictures from the photoshoot get uploaded and sent to every news show and website imaginable. It'll be quite the surprise.”

Grian watches as he speaks so nonchalantly. So flippant and almost jaded like he's just relaying normal information with no weight or pull. Like he's not saying words that make Grian's whole mind spin and palms clammy. But in some weird way, his unconcerned disposition is helping his mind not wander too far. If Scar could do it alone, then maybe Grian can do it with a person. Besides, his plan is still in action. Find his family, help Scar find Boatem, then live happily ever after. That's all he needs to do. Everything else is manageable. But maybe he should change the subject before his hands get any more slippery and he slips off the beam.

“You said earlier that nobody would be able to take your spot, why? Wouldn't some want to anyway? For pay or something?” Grian askes confused. Sure it seems like a lot of work, way more work then whatever the other ranking Heros do, but surely the system is there to make the Hero's try harder.

“It's not so much that nobody really wants to, but,” he pauses, dropping his head to look back at Grian. He takes a long sigh before speaking again. “Boatem used to collectively be number one. We worked together and a success for one of us was success for all. When I joined they had been number one for a while, and with me we still were. When they disappeared the council decided that as the remaining member, they will just keep me as number one because of the previous successes. No single Hero could ever be what team Boatem was. So I’m going to be here for a while.”

That…made some sort of sense. Grian looked over the edge to the floor thinking. That must have fucking sucked though. Having all your friends disappear and then have to take credit for all their work.

“Did…did the media care when Boatem disappeared and you took their place?” Grian asked hesitantly. He jumped slightly when Scar let out a loud bark of laughter. It sounded so painfully disbelieving. Grian cringed at his own question, even if he wanted to know.

“You really lived here, and didn't see the whole storm that was all that?” Scar asked, he raised his hand to his glasses, like he was about to push them into his hair, Grian felt his heart sink a bit quickly lifting his eyes to look behind Scar instead of at him. But when he touched the frames he seemed to remember himself and readjusted to run his fingers through his hair instead.

“Let's just say, some people liked me, and…some, didn't. It's a long, long, long story.” He kept drawing out the ‘long’ for more and more time until Grian pushed his foot into his. “Besides, we should be focusing on you, not my tragic, and it's truly just the most tragic, backstory.” He tried to strike a victory pose but quickly squeaked in fear when his leg almost fell off the edge. Grian snorted, shuffling to get closer to Scar in case he did accidentally take a dive.

He could still feel his heart beat and racing mind when he thought about tomorrow. But with a quick deep breath, Grian wills his heart rate to calm down a little. It will be fine. Just a quick speech and then he can go on a normal patrol. Of course that will also involve Scar but at least patrolling is something he really knows. He knows this city and he knows it well. Stop a few crimes and then he can go back to the tower and have a freak out about it later. Perfect plan!

“Okay. So. We speech. Then we go on patrol for a little bit?” He asks hopefully. Which is immediately crushed by the sad smile Scar gives him.

“Oh no Birdy. Tomorrow will be quite the long day. First the speeches, then the press conference, then the red carpet, then another photoshoot, then we go on patrol but we won't actually do any crime fighting. It's more of a meet and greet than anything. Hopefully by then it's late enough that we can get away and on a real patrol for a few hours. But either way, we will always have to report to Cub at the end of every patrol, because he's the one who keeps track of our mission documents and patrol movements.” He kept listing the things using his fingers until he got to Cub, when he waved his hands as he explained.

Ugh. It just sounded like a lot of talking. And being nice to people. Two things he didn't particularly care for.

“Won't people wonder why a vigilante became a Hero?” Grians decides to ask, honestly the more questions he asks Scar, the more likely he will have all the answers for no matter what people ask him tomorrow.

“Not ness-nesci-neceessarly.” He stumbled, but pushed through seamlessly. “There's been a few Heroes that started out as vigilantes. I do believe TFC was actually one. Boatem too, other than me. Plus, you didn't really have a media presence. People might recognize your wings but otherwise nobody should really care. While it is technically illegal, the media will be way more excited about me getting a partner.”

“I…guess that makes sense…” Grian looked over the edge of the beam at the ground again. He certainly wasn't looking forward to tomorrow. But Scar telling how it will all go has helped alleviate some of the nerves he had. He felt a yawn sneak up on him. Tilting his head back while he stretched his wings behind him and his arms above his head, he heard Scar snicker from his side.

“Getting tired Birdy?” He smiles, but it dims as he seems to have a sudden thought. He reaches into his pocket and retrieves his communicator issued by the Association. Grian had been given one along with his badges but he had yet to feel the need to set it up. He watches as Scar looks at the time, surprise etched in his features.

“It's later than I was expecting. We should probably turn in for the night.” He spoke with a hint of disappointment in his voice. It made Grian smirk.

“Don't sound so sad, SmallGuy, you'll see me tomorrow.” He nudged his side with his elbow, purposefully trying to set his balance off.

“H-Hey! Watch where you aim! And I'm not small!” He laughs. “You have to help me get down from here, PeskyBird, and I highly doubt you wanna catch me while falling.” He shakes his head in amusement as Grian gets onto his feet. He looks down at him turning his head to the side putting on his own rendition of the HotGuy smile.

“Aww, but I wanted to leave you here!” He jokes. Scar starts to protest but Grian ignores him, walking off the edge hearing Scars startled yelp. He lets the air whip past his face as he free falls for a few seconds. It feels nice to just fall sometimes.

He unfolds his wings until they catch air, thrusting him back up to the beam Scar still sits on. He stops a few feet below, hovering as he looks up to Scar. The poor Hero barely peeks over the edge, there is palpable fear on his face but it seemed mixed with hard determination.

“If you want down you have to jump to me!” Grian trills holding his arms out, ready to catch him.

“I don't know if I can do that, G...” He says hesitantly, glancing dubiously from Grian to the ground.

“Don't worry, I'll catch you. Here, grab my hand and I’ll pull you to me!” He offers his clawed hand to the fearful Hero, but to his credit, he only hesitated for about ten seconds before lightly gripping his hand.

Scar looks to Grians face with a relieved smile only for it to watch it fade as Grians own becomes more and more devious the longer he holds Scar hand. Then suddenly, Grian grasps his hand tighter and then rips him off the beam. Scar falls with a loud shout, but he doesn't fall far. He falls into Grians chest, instinctually wrapping his arms around him and Grian does the same. Holding him from under his arms and Scar continues to scream even though he is in fact stationary. Laughing and rolling his eyes Grians adjusts to make sure his grip on Scar is tight enough. Though with how hard Scar is holding onto Grian, he doubts there is much that could ever get him to let go.

“Scar.” He tries to get his attention, but it can't be heard through the yelling. “Scar!” Again, no let up. “Scar!” Finally Scar closes his mouth, but doesn't take his face out of Grians shoulder.

“Put me down you overgrown chicken!” He shouts back, yet it certainly didn't have the desired effect as Grian just laughed.

Deciding to have some mercy, he changes direction down to the ground. Slowly drifting further and further down until his and Scar's feet brush the concrete floor. Lightly setting Scar back on his feet, he folds his wings back behind himself with a huff. It had been a long time since he carried someone else while flying, and today he did it twice, so he's slightly sore.

Scar seems fine now that he is on the ground. Running a shaky hand through his hair as he tries to catch his breath. It makes Grian laugh.

“I told you I’d catch you!” He brags, elbowing him in the side making him lose balance. He catches himself on the pillar next to him, shaking his head slightly. Grians smile dimmed raising his hands to help if there was an actual issue, but Scar continued as if nothing happened.

“Yeah yeah you are the almighty flier! Best there's ever been.” He sarcastically said, yet it was greatly softened by the smile he had on his face.

“You know it! The best flier you all got! Considering my audition, you should know this by now!” Grian laughs, starting to walk toward the exit. He reached a hand up to grip his bow by instinct, grasping it around his chest as he walked.

He heard Scar speed up to catch him, coming up to walk shoulder to shoulder. Grian looked up at him and smiled, but Scar looked forward with a thin smile.

“Oh yes,” He started as if it was a taboo topic. “Your audition. The most wild audition we had ever seen!” He laughed, though it seemed nervous.

“Yeah,” Grian drew out, catching a weird vibe to this conversation. Was it taboo to talk about? “It was pretty crazy. I didn't expect to have to fly as fast as I did. But it was over pretty quick all things considered. What was yours like?” He asks, genuinely curious.

“Nothing like yours! None I've ever seen have been like yours! You didn't even have a respawn bracelet. You really could've been hurt in there.” He huffed a laugh but it seemed strained.

“What…what do you mean?” Surely his audition wasn't too different from everyone else. It was meant to weed out the weak. If he got hurt then it's about how you get back up. Heroics is a hard gig. The amount of times he risked himself as a vigilante made the audition look like a bad dream. He assumed that being a Hero was quite a few many times worse.

“Grian, your audition was way more harsh than any of us had ever seen. It was dangerous. The room is meant to give you a trial to test your wits and ability to make good choices under a bit of pressure. What it had you do could've gotten you killed.” Scar was talking a lot more seriously about this than how Grian felt. He survived, so what was the issue?

“Well, how does the room work?” He suggests, trying to understand why Scar is acting so weird about his audition. “I tried to look up what I was going to be tested on before I got there but there was literally nothing. Not even the internet had much to say.”

“Well yes the people who audition do sign a form stating they are okay with getting a memory wipe of their trial if they don't get taken in as Heros.” Scar dimisses with a wave of his hand. “You signed one too, didn't you read it?” He looks down at Grian, who just purses his lips and looks away.

“What a lovely floor pattern…goes very well with the…floor.” Grian tries even though it's a completely white hall, but Scar laughs anyway.

“You didn't read what you signed did you?” He pushed Grians shoulder, causing him to stumble.

“Hey! There was a lot going on that day!” recovering from his stumble he shakes his fist at Scar as they continue to the elevator.

“You should really read the documents you sign PeskyBird. Legal contracts are no joke. Anyways,” he claps, finally arriving at the lift. He presses the button for their floor, waiting for the doors to open. “Nobody really knows how the room works, but most of us assume it's one of the council members' powers, since there's that window that they watch through.”

That makes sense. He remembers seeing the other window on the other side of the room. The one he was never able to see through, and wondering who was on the other side. Interesting.

“But,” Scar interrupted his thoughts with an oddly serious voice. “We have never seen a room trial as dangerous as yours. It was like it was trying to kill you. I’ve been in some binds over the years, but the way you pulled through some of those pillars was insane Grian. Xisuma also tried to break in to help you, but Tango held him back. We've never broken in one before and we didn't want to hurt you or anyone else.”

Grian…didn't know how to feel about that. They felt it was dangerous enough to try and save him, yet he felt like it was a good trial to send a would-be Hero into. Is he the mad one here? Yeah, sure, he could've been hurt. And if there really is a council member who runs the room, then that guy might need some help. But he's been in a lot worse situations on the streets, and assumedly so had Scar. Maybe it was just because it was so different from what they were used to seeing. Yeah, he'll go with that.

Suddenly the elevator doors opened. Grian decided to just drop the topic of conversation as they headed in, pressing the button to take them back up to their rooms. He didn't understand why the room would've been so hard for him, and nobody else, but either way it didn't matter since he passed. He got what he wanted, and he didn't really get hurt from it. No need to worry about it then.

They waited in comfortable silence. Or well, maybe it was comfortable, maybe not. Grian was getting quite tired he couldn't really tell. Distantly he felt kind of bad because if it was uncomfortable, Scar had to sit there and deal with it.

Luckily, the ding of the elevator shook him out of his haze a bit. Walking with Scar down the hall he was brought to a sudden halt as Scar stopped abruptly. Looking around him, Grian slowly looks for the reason for him to have stopped. But the only thing that's different in the hallway from then they had left a few hours previous, is two stark white envelopes sitting innocently on both of their doorsteps.

Grian is taken back to when he had found a similar letter in his old apartment not even two weeks ago. How time flies. He certainly doesn't feel very tired anymore as he looks up to Scar to gauge his reaction to the random letters.

Scar reaches into his pocket and pulls his com out again, checking the time before letting out a long sigh. He tilts the screen to Grian, letting him catch the time. It's twelve-o-five, on the dot.

“Well, it's safe to say our break is over. And now I have more to explain to you.” He sulks over to the envelopes picking them both up and shuffles over to Grians door, waiting for him to open it. Maybe if Grian wasn't so confused at the white envelopes he might have thought it odd Scar didn't invite him into his room first, but immediately went to Grians. But as it stands he just let him in, both shuffling over to sit at the bar.

Scar places the letters next to each other in front of them both. The two are identical except for their individual Hero names printed on the front in ornate gold font. It feels weird to see that name and it means him. CuteGuy. He’s gonna have to get used to that.

"What are these?" Grian titles his head to the side to study them. He reaches his hand out to grab his own, turning it in his hands. Perfectly sealed, no blemishes. It feels thick and sturdy, made with expensive paper and even if held up in the light you wouldn't be able to see what was in it unless opened.

"These, my feathered friend, are mission details!" Scar snatches his from the table without fanfare, ripping it open through the side and pulling out several folded papers. He looks disgruntled, getting increasingly more upset while scanning the documents.

Grian, still without a detailed answer, decides to open his as well. Using a singular claw he delicately tears the side open, similar to Scar just way more careful. Pulling the thick stack of folded documents he's greeted with a plethora of long winded sentences and words only a dictionary would know. He skims the papers understanding something about a drug and him and Scars names.

Giving up, he drops the papers back on to the counter top, waiting for Scar to finish. Clearly he understood what he was reading if he was still scanning them front to back. At some point while Grian was previously trying to decipher Scar had stood up. The Hero is pacing behind Grians chair, who twisted in his seat to watch him. His fingers play with his short hair as he reads absentmindedly and if he didn't look so pissed, Grian might find it endearing.

But as it stands, Scar scoffs, tossing the papers on top of Grians. He sighs heavily, plopping himself down in the seat next to him, head in his hands.

Grian was starting to feel a bit worried if he's being honest. Scar still hasn't explained what the letters mean, and here he is being pretty upset at its contents. Glancing back to the documents he slides them over to himself trying to decipher the letter again. But it just feels purposefully convoluted. Grian would consider himself pretty well read considering his upbringing, but this was absurd.

"It's that way on purpose." Scar mumbled from his hands. Grian lowers the papers again, Scar isn't even looking at him yet he has no doubt his confusion was palpable. "It's meant to confuse anyone who doesn't know what to look for. Keep these plans out of the wrong hands. The only sentences that are important are every third sentence in a paragraph."

Okay, odd. But probably smart. Armed with his new knowledge Grian reread the papers for a third time, this time skipping the sentences that don't matter.

He reads that he and HotGuy are planned to infiltrate a supposed drug deal happening the day after tomorrow. Some stimulant drug that they have been chasing information for for a long time. It gives a few dates, times and locations, for when to be there. It also has a few pages on some names and photos of some of the criminals they should expect to see.

Huh. Dropping the information he looks to see Scar watching him.

"So, what? Cub just gives us missions whenever?" He asks, shuffling the papers.

"Not Cub no. Higher than him. Missions come directly from the council to the Hero they are sending out. All Cub is given is that I'll be out of commission those days. These trump everything, patrols, interviews, press conferences, everything until they are done." He explains gently. He clearly is not upset at Grian, but upset at something. Opening his mouth to speak, Scar beats him to it. "Only certain Hero's get missions, and I didn't expect to have them give us one together so soon."

Ah, so that's why he's upset.

"You don't even know patrol routes and they are sending you out to do dangerous work with me." He huffs, shaking his head. Grian feels his feathers ruffle when he says that, not liking the unintentional insinuation.

"I'd say I've done plenty of dangerous work all by myself before." He mutters, if only to himself. Scar seems to hear him anyway.

"I'm not saying you haven't, I'm saying they shouldn't be making you go out so soon after your debut. Especially on the mission that has been in the works for a long time." He splays his hands out on the counter roughly, as if that accentuates his point.

Grian feels even more confused, which is an emotion he's getting a little tired of feeling. He trills quietly, an expression of annoyance. He forgets himself, because Scar head immediately snaps in his direction. He shrinks back in his chair, he forgot how Scar can decipher some Avian calls.

“What's wrong?” Scar softens his face, probably thinking he was the one Grian was annoyed at. Grian sighs, relaxing his shoulders. Even knowing Scar is fine with his Avian isms he still forgets sometimes.

“I’m just still confused as to why this is a bad thing. I’m going to have to learn at some point, right?” Scars shoulders also dropped, mostly likely upon realizing Grian wasn't mad at him.

“I just think it's unfair to throw somebody into the life I have to live with no formal training. I know!” He quickly amends as Grian opens his mouth to counter. He narrows his eyes before shutting his mouth to listen. “You were a vigilante, you know what you're doing in a fight. I don't doubt that. But the rest of this world is something I had help with from four other people. You don't have anyone, Grian.” He says sadly.

Grian stops to think. Really think. He knows Scar is right about a lot of it. He doesn't know how to be kind to the media, doesn't know how to Heroic, doesn't know how to write speeches or say calming words to large groups. He's been riding off the idea that he wouldn't get this far, and now he's friends with HotGuy and also promised to help him find out a conspiracy. Boy his life sure took a turn. And really, for the first time in three years he doesn't know what's going to happen tomorrow or the next day. But he does know one thing for certain.

“Scar, I understand where you're coming from. But you have to remember, I have you. You said you'd help me, and that'll be enough. I can get myself outta some shitty situations, so don't worry about me so much.” He tries to smile kindly, and it seems to work as Scar processes his words. He slowly shakes his head in understanding.

“Okay. Okay.” He mumbles. “I think we’ll be okay, as long as we help each other.” He finally smiles back. He shifts his gaze to the papers on the bar, frowning at them before reaching over to shuffle them into one thick stack. “We will worry about these after patrol tomorrow. Or maybe during patrol, since we will be out so late anyways. For now, it is late and we have an early day tomorrow. We should probably turn in.”

The way he speaks, Grian feels that this isn't the last time they will have a conversation like this. He seems better than he was, but still far away, like he's missing something. Or most likely, some one.

But they both know each other are tired, even if one of them made it clear that he's used to it. But Grian won't have it.

“Yeah, we both should turn in. I’ll see you bright and early, yes?” Grian stood from his seat, stretching his wings and arms out hearing a few cracks and pops. When he opened his eyes he saw Scar doing much the same as him, minus the wings of course.

“Of course!” Scar reached to make sure his bow was still around his shoulder, and once finding it was, he made his way to Grians door. Something about the way he walked away made Grian chirp in alarm, causing both of them to freeze where they stood.

Grian felt his cheeks light up, he didn't know why he did that. He just felt like he needed to tell Scar something, he wasn't going to but now he guesses he has too. He watches as Scar slowly turns around, his hand had been reaching for the door handle.

“Everything okay, Birdy?” He asks, poorly concealed concern written on his face.

“Umm…I was just going to say that if. If you wanted to come over a little earlier for me to do your makeup we can.” He said hesitantly. Both shuffled a bit awkwardly which made Grian hastily amend, “You don't have to! I just thought maybe-”

“G!” Scar laughed, causing Grian to pause mid gesture to look slightly panicked at Scar. “I’d love to. I’ll be over just before sunrise okay?” He smiled in a way that Grian was sure to reach his eyes.

He then turned around again, opened the door and left quietly. The door shutting with a soft click as Grian suddenly coos sadly to an empty room. Halfway through he swallowed it down. He didn't know where those were coming from but they needed to stop. Last thing he needed was to accidentally announce his emotions to everyone in the room.

Sighing, Grian went through the rest of his nighttime routine making sure to set out his Hero Uniform that Cub had sent earlier that week after it had been finished. And with that done, he crawled into bed, closed his eyes and dreamed of nothing.

Chapter Text

“Red! Watch out!” Watcher shouted, landing roughly on the concrete roof. He used the momentum from landing to push himself into a faster run, though the gravel under his boots caused him to lose his footing a bit upon take off. He stumbled, but kept his eyes focused on the Hero currently putting the finishing touches on a D.U.S.T. machine, oblivious to the world.

Unfortunately, the villain that they were all currently fighting had the Hero in his sights and certainly did not want them to finish it. To be fair, if he had ice powers and some Hero was building a superheater real time, he would also be quite worried. But the villain currently creating a barrage of ice spikes and compacted snow to cover the Hero was also something Watcher personally would not like to be happening at this time either.

The Hero looked up upon hearing his name, goggles strapped onto his head, hands covered in D.U.S.T. He looked slightly frazzled, being this close to the action. Typically RedStone would come along to the fights, get close enough to find the villains weaknesses, sneak away and hide until he made a contraption that could help defeat them. That's not to say he couldn't fight, he could very well fight, but he knew he was most useful with his full attention elsewhere.

And that's how they find themselves here. With RedStone with a palm full of D.U.S.T. in one hand and some rectangular contraption in the other, while the villain known as Snow Major suspended himself mid air with towers of slick compacted ice. He thrust his hand up to the sky generating a deadly looking cloud of swirling ice and snow. At any moment, when he decided it was deadly enough, he would throw it towards RedStone, if not killing him then seriously injuring him.

He had watched as Snow cackled upon finding Reds hiding place. He had been on the ground covering a few unlucky bystanders with his wings as Snow was hurling ice spikes and waves of snow against the Big Eye Bank. Tycoon had been taking shots with his bow whenever he could withstand the freezing wind and ice. Both I-Mighty and MoonLight had to back up to take care of a few injuries they had sustained earlier in the muti-hour long battle.

Shuffling the citizens down a secluded alley, he ran back to Prime Street hoping to buy Red some more time. After the first hour of the fight RedStone had finally told them all he had an idea that could take Snow Major down, and he needed cover. It was something that could latch onto the villain and hopefully make his powers less strong. The only problem was making sure RedStone wasn't seen while he was busy engineering the device.

At some point Snow Majors plan changed from robbing the bank, to just causing as much damage as possible just to be a problem. He flew into the air, presumably to assess his surroundings to find something else to destroy, when he suddenly paused his ascent. He had raised himself over the tallest skyscraper on Prime St. freezing himself next to the tower with a loud cackle the Hero could hear from the street below.

He felt his blood run cold; that's where RedStone was hiding. His wings snapped from his back, thrusting himself into the air without a second thought, racing to the top of the tower before Snow could harm Red. Tycoon was at the base of the pillar taking shots into the air trying to knock the villain loose, but every shot was coming up unlucky.

As he was flying up, up, up he watched as Snow raised his arm creating a spike of ice from thin air. A wicked smile graced his face as his piercing blue eyes stared RedStone down from above him. He pulled his arm back with the spike, ready to javelin it right for RedStone along with the rest of the dangerous cloud of ice.

Which leaves him here, running toward Red hoping to reach him before the ice spike that had just left Snow's hand did. He couldn't see behind Red's goggles, but he could tell that his eyes widened by his eyebrows rising as the ice got closer and closer, ironically frozen in place. His hands continued to move around the object even without his eyes looking at it. Shoving redstone dust into places while snapping wires together before shutting the back plate harshly.

He was a few feet away when RedStone finally moved. The villain had created more ice, finally shooting everything they had at them. But before any of the spikes could hit anyone, Red simultaneously threw his device over his head at the villain while he dived for Watcher. Knocking them both over as Watcher threw his wings over them as the rain of ice showered over the two. He made sure to push Red to the ground under him and cover him up as much as possible. His wings took the brunt of the ice luckily, he could barely feel the ice hit the impenetrable limbs.

As the ice stopped raining his ear feathers twitched upon hearing a not so distant scream. Lifting himself off of his team member, he quickly made sure he was unharmed before standing to look at the villain.

Whatever Red had thrown at them was a perfect hit. It had hooked onto Snow's shirt, then sprouted tendrils of wires that wrapped around the villain, keeping them still while also, what he could only assume, heating up to keep the winter powers at bay. Snow Major was shifting every which way to try and get free, trying to throw the device off but everytime he reached for it another wire held his arms down. The pillar of ice that was holding him up was slowly melting the warmer the villain got, RedStones theory had been proven correct.

He felt a smile stretch across his face as he helped Red to his feet. Checking over the other a bit longer revealed a few scratches weakly dripping blood from being pushed into the gravel, but otherwise was fine. With a soft pat to the back, he walked over and stepped off the building stretching his wings out to catch air. He drifted to the villain who had enough self awareness to recognize he had been caught, a scowl plastered on his face. He never stopped struggling but it did get less and less strong.

Following the villain as they descended down the melting tower, he met with the rest of the team on the ground. Snow Major at their feet sitting as they couldn't stand with the wires wrapped around them. The blue haired villain was still weakly trying to escape the wires, wiggling and scoffing swears. Looking up from the captured villain, he smiled at Mighty, Moon, and Tycoon as they also surrounded the defeated villain. RedStone flew in, landing right next to him releasing the trigger of his grappling gun. He pulled his goggles off his eyes up into his hair. His cheeks were flushed with excitement and confidence as the group congratulated him on the success of his mid-fight invention.

They were so caught up in their excitement they didn't hear the footsteps walking up to their group. StarVoid interrupted their circle with a clearing of his throat, announcing his arrival. The group startled then parted, letting the older Hero grab the villain, and with some help from Red they detached the wires replacing them with cuffs. The villain stayed silent the whole time with a blatant scowl even as StarVoid dragged them off into an Association police car.

The group watched as the Hero opened the back doors, shoving the villain in and shutting the doors. He then hopped into the front seat with the driver as protection. Once the doors were shut the car took off down the crumbling street to the secure villain jailhouse.

The team was then left alone in the middle of the collapsing remnants of the street and surrounding buildings. The previous excitement suddenly left them all. It was quiet as they all took in to damage, the ice was melting leaving everything wet and dripping. The rubble under their feet crunched when they shifted and every once in a while some more would fall off a building hitting the streets below.

It was always eerie after a larger scale Hero fight. A mix of the feelings that come along with winning a hard grueling battle but also the crestfallen thoughts and scenes of so much that hurt in the process. They didn't know how many people had been hurt yet. Or the possibility of deaths as well. All because some villain with stronger powers wanted to try and rob an impenetrable bank vault.

Suddenly, he heard a small giggle from behind him. It was getting louder and louder until he was forced to turn around. Pulling his wings in tight, he looked for whoever would find it appropriate to laugh at such destruction.

Behind himself he found the culprit, the newest addition to their team: Tycoon. The new Hero had his hand up trying to stifle his giggles, eyes closed in humor. Beside him, Moon was starting to catch the giggles as well. Starting slow, and then catching speed along with Tycoon. The two every once in a while would look over to him and start giggling harder.

“What, may I ask, is so funny?” He heard himself ask. This just got them to actually start laughing without hesitance. This then caused RedStone and Mighty to look from the two to him and back, then also start giggling.

Finally, Tycoon spoke up. He opened his honey brown eyes and gazed at him amused.

Wait, that's not right. Where are his sunglasses? Did he lose them in the fight? Grian felt his feathers ruffle.

“You flew up to cover Red so quickly! You scrambled your way up there so quickly it was like watching a lighting bolt fly.” Tycoon laughed, even if his analogy didn't make much sense. The rest of the group also started laughing, alleviating some of the depression of the devastation.

Watcher could feel his cheeks light up under his mask and Red's face also started to match the color of his namesake. Though both eventually started laughing along with them.

“Well if he would've been paying attention to his surroundings maybe I wouldn't have too!” He laughed back, “With Mighty and Moon getting hurt and you helping citizens, Red would've been in deep shit had I not done something!”

“Hey! I am perfectly capable of helping myself thank you!” He huffed playfully.

“I’m sure that's why you dove under my wings huh?” He laughed along with everyone else as Red spluttered embarrassed.

“Watcher!” He shouted, punching him in the shoulder.

Yet he didn't feel a thing. This is an odd dream, he'd rather his friends not hit him…

Wait.

He shot up in bed, his chest pulling in oxygen as quickly as he could make it move. He had sweat beading along his brow and his hands were shaking as he ran them through his hair in an effort to calm himself down.

What was that?

He snapped his head to look at his alarm clock, three minutes til he was set to wake up. Great. A perfect way to start the busiest day of his life.

Still trying to get his breathing in check, he flopped back onto his pillows with a hand on his chest. In, out. In, then out.

That was one weird ass dream. He was what? The long lost Hero Watcher? And he was in some battle alongside Team Boatem? He must really be full of himself if he feels he has any sort of power like Watcher. Let alone be in a group that is that powerful.

Ugh. He slapped his arm over his face, Scar would be so upset if he knew what Grian was dreaming about his missing family members. Like seriously, he hears about Scar's tragic backstory and immediately fills the spot with himself? Sure he was missing his family too but that didn't give his subconscious the right to place himself into Scars.

His feathers ruffled thinking of Scar being part of his family. Oh. Oh. So that's what this was! A “flock” thing. Yet another one of his bird traits coming back at the exact wrong time. He hung out with Scar like, three times and now his brain is calling for them to be flockmates.

He had distinctly lost the call for flock when-

His train of sad thought was abruptly cut off when his alarm finally sounded throughout his room. Groaning, he rolled over slapping the top of the clock harshly, causing it to almost fall onto the floor.

It was an hour or so before sunrise, aka, way too fucking early. But he promised Scar he would get ready with him, so out of bed he must get. If only he could make himself get up. The pull of his soft, warm covers was almost enough to say screw it and let the consequences meet as they may. But that wouldn't be a very good first impression to Hermit Empire.

Okay fine! He threw his arms into the air, the argument with himself getting heated. He’ll get up, but just shower and put his outfit on. He can do his hair and stuff when Scar gets there. Perfect plan.

He shifts to sit up in his ne- bed. He sits up in his bed, the covers falling off of himself and pooling around his waist and wings. Ugh, those are going to need a good preening too if he wants to look presentable in front of half of the city. With a tired sigh, he pulls the blankets the rest of the way off, swinging his feet off the edge while rubbing his eyes with a yawn.

Standing to stretch he hears a dull thud by his feet, as if something fell off. His room was still very dark, even with his eyes adjusted when he knelt down to try to pick up the pillow or whatever fell he had to blindly run his hand by his feet back and forth.

Finally his claws grappled onto the small object, lifting it to his eyes as he squinted to make out what it was. He recognized the beak first, then the eyes then the claws. Oh no he accidentally dropped Moon! He pulled the bear to his chest with a sad coo. With a silent apology he placed the stuffed animal carefully onto his still warm pillow.

He knew he shouldn't be so attached to a stuffed animal at his age but for the longest time, Moon was all he had. So sue him, the pigeon will be treated like royalty. Besides, who was going to say anything about it? Not like he had anyone who knew him well enough anyways.

Gathering the things he'd need to take a shower, Grian entered the bathroom. He made sure to bring his Hero uniform that had been sent to his room by Cub. It was… interesting. Seeing it all finished and put together made it all feel even more real. As if at this point it didn't. But that's neither here nor there.

After finishing his quick shower (he made sure to clean his wings extra nice. Usually he wouldn't really bother since it takes so long to dry them, but he's pretty sure he has enough time to blow dry them out. Make sure they look extra shiny and bright.) he put on most of his Hero outfit on. He left the heeled boots til they were about to leave. He knew that Cub made them comfortable, but he'd rather just wait til after his and Scars makeup.

There were a few changes made to the outfit that he noticed were there when he first saw it. (That is to say, when he thought about it much later, after he had sufficiently calmed down. He also recognized that he wasn't in the best headspace when he saw it the first time anyways, so maybe he wasn't the best judge of what had really changed.) It did have less bows, such as the gloves now being smooth all the way up. The one in the back of his neck stayed, but with an added latch so if it came undone then the top would still stay on. The fishnets also changed from orange to light gray, probably to break up all the bright colors.

With all those bright colors, Grian was worried about being able to sneak around and actually do his job. But luckily Cub had sent over the exact same outfit but in black, with long sleeves and pants, and also one with even less coverage. He hoped that was just in case it was like, a million degrees and not something he was expected to wear all the time; he was already worried about being covered with what he had.

Whatever. He wasn't the designer and they probably knew something he didn't. Plus, the more he was learning about this the more he realized more than half of this job was just media attention. The look, more so than the act.

Lazily fixing his hair in the mirror, he heard a quiet knock at his door. Right on time, if not a bit later than what Grian was expecting. Placing his brush on the counter, he turns away from the mirror and makes his way to his front door. His flat was dark, never bothering to turn the lights on and along with the sun still not being up, he was basically walking around hoping not to run into anything.

Another quiet knock sounded just as he reached for the handle. How did he always end up knocking a second time right as he made it to the door? He flipped on the lights while pulling the door open, Scar had one arm still poised to knock while the other was busy covering his mouth as he yawned. Upon realizing the door was open he lazily dropped his arms. He was dressed in his new HotGuy outfit, the one that was slightly changed to look more like Grians. His hair was a right mess. It looked as if he had been running his hand through it for hours. Grian grimaced upon realizing he probably did.

By his feet he had a black duffle back with his logo on it. His bow was neatly laid on top. If Grian had to guess, in the bag was his quiver and shoes as the man before him did not possess either of those on his person.

Grian watched as he straightened up a bit, yet still was slumped with obvious exhaustion. His sunglasses concealed his eyes but if Grian were to guess he’d say that Scar must have had some eye bags rivaling a raccoon.

Suddenly without a word, Scar grabbed his stuff and walked past Grian and into his flat. Shocked, Grian just spun around watching as Scar beelined for his couch.

“You didn't actually go to sleep last night did you?” Grian snarked, closing the door softly following behind Scar.

“I slept some I’ll have you know!” His speech was slightly slurred as he spoke. He was clearly more tired than he let in. “I just had to look into the mission a bit more. Old memos and all that. Didn't take too terribly long. Just…a few hours.” He said the last bit quieter than the rest before dropping his bag, and collapsing with a yawn onto Grians couch.

“Yeah I’m sure it was a completely reasonable amount of sleep.” He popped his hip to the side to lean against the side of the couch, titling himself to look over Scar. He's practically melting into the couch, head tilted back against the cushions and Grian could only assume his eyes were closed.

It was unfortunate, because they both had to get ready before the sun was up. He was tired too, but his shower woke him up nicely. And while he wasn't used to being up this early, maybe that old adage of the early bird maybe had some merit, because Grian felt actually quite peppy.

“I got the normal amount of sleep for me, Pesky Bird.” He mumbled, still trying to disappear into the sofa.

Sighing, Grian turned to the clock on the wall. They probably had an hour and a half before they needed to be in Cubs office and picture perfect. That's plenty of time…if they got started now.

But looking at Scar, completely exhausted (even if it was probably his own fault) Grian couldn't find himself to make him get up. Maybe they could just do everything here? They were already dressed and hair and makeup could be done on the go! He had done that plenty of times.

Flicking his eyes back to Scar he could see his chest moving slowly, as if he fell asleep. For some reason, it brought a small smile to his face. There has to be a compact mirror somewhere in the stuff Cub sent, or maybe just in the bathroom.

With that, he left Scar on his couch to do… Scar things, and he went back to the bathroom. His hair was mostly dry, but he needed to blow dry his wings still. After that he would bring all the makeup and brushes he would need for Scar and himself. This way, Scar can sleep for the next twenty minutes or so while he gets his wings done.

Closing the door slightly hoping to lessen the amount of noise a blow dryer makes, he opens the drawer he had seen it in and takes it out. Plugging it in, he twists himself as much as possible and starts the annoying process of drying his damn wings. He had to make sure he doesn't get it too hot, cause they are too sensitive and he’ll burn quickly. But if it's too cold or far away then they won't dry at all.

It takes about as long and as much flexibility as he expects. The only place he can't really reach is the center of his back, but those feathers are typically quite thin so it won't take long for them to air dry, thankfully. He sets the dryer back onto the counter and starts gathering up his makeup and hair brushes. He basically had the ‘approved’ looks memorized, at least the ones for himself. He wasn't really sure if Scar had any makeup looks he was allowed to do for HotGuy, but if he had to guess it'll be a more masculine version of what he was allowed for CuteGuy. Which was fundamentally bullshit so he wouldn't be doing that unless Scar wanted him to.

Speaking of Scar, Grian used his foot to edge the door open as his hands were full, and left the bathroom to go back to the front room. When he turned the corner heading to the coffee table to set his things down, he noticed that somehow Scar had managed to fall sideways onto the couch. His feet were pulled up as well and if Grian had to admit, he looked very comfortable.

Unfortunately though, they had only an hour before they had to be with Cub awaiting transportation instructions. So, quietly he set all of his products down and knelt before Scars head. He had his hands up, balled by his softly rising chest. His glasses had been knocked askew, revealing one of his closed eyes (which, distantly, Grian remarked at how he was correct at his horrendous looking eye bags.)

Suddenly Grians dream from the night before hit him. Supposedly concealed by dark sunglasses worn at all times of the day were honey brown eyes. He knew it wasn't any of his business why Scar wore the sunglasses nowadays, but he couldn't help but be curious if his dream was…well real. Clearly it couldn't have been real. He's not Watcher. But Tycoon was there. Scar was there. What if he did have honey brown eyes? What if…What if there was some truth in it?

No. Impossible. It was probably just some weird ‘what if’ dreams where he was part of Boatem. Yeah. And his brain just put him in the role with the other guy with wings. That makes sense.

Shaking his head to clear his thoughts he slowly reached out and fixed Scars glasses. Pushing them further up around his ears until he could no longer see his eye unless he looked over him. Smiling at his success, he moved his hand from Scars glasses back to his side before standing up. His smile got wider upon seeing his record player.

Listen, he may have been a good guy but he was not a good guy. He quietly walked over and grabbed a random record from the stack and placed it inside the player. Before turning it on he made sure to turn the volume dial as high as it would go. Then, when he turned it on he softly grabbed the needle and dropped it in the middle of the song.

Immediately a piano melody began blasting from the old speakers. Grian flipped around just in time to see Scar leap up from his lying position on the couch at alarming speed with a yelp loud enough to rival the speakers. He snapped his head around the room looking for the source only to find Grian having trouble standing, holding onto the player while covering his mouth.

When Scars eyes finally landed on Grian, his fearful expression went to one of vague annoyance. And that was Grian's last straw. He doubled over holding his stomach as he laughed hard. His wings flapped along as his cheeks turned red as he used his other hand to turn the volume down on the player.

“W-Well you- you're definitely awake now!” He giggled, wiping the tears from his eyes. He watched as Scar harrumphed, crossing his arms over his chest turning his head away from Grian. Which just caused Grian to laugh more, coming around the table to sit next to Scar. He bumped their shoulders together, twittering a lighter laugh to get him to look at him.

He could see Scar trying not to smile, especially when he finally turned his head to look at him. He cooed at him, making him finally smile with him.

“That's cheating. I'm supposed to be mad you woke me up.” Scar huffed with a smile, it slowly turned into a yawn that he covered with the back of his hand. Smacking his lips together and Grian got a hold of himself, he turned to look at the coffee table and its plethora of objects.

Taking a deep breath, Grian finally wiped his eyes one more time before addressing Scar.

“I needed to get you up somehow. I was already nice enough to let you sleep on my couch as I dried my wings.” He smiled, grabbing the brush off the table. “Now we have to get you ready. Your hair looks like a rat's nest. And I would know, there was one in my old apartment.”

“Okay, ignoring that last part,” he pulled a face that suggested he really didn't want to know about it, “how long did I sleep?” He asked, his voice betrayed that he seemed nervous. His head turned to Grians balcony doors, checking to see if there was any light out.

“It was only 30 minutes. You seemed like you needed it.” Without much thought, Grian brought his hands up and started brushing through Scars hair. It startled them both. Scar whipped his head back to look at Grian, who froze in place, realizing what he had done. While not completely odd, Grian definitely knew it was a flock thing, which made it weird for him. He had no clue what Scar was thinking. He should have at least asked first.

“I-I’m sorry. I didn't think…” He pulled his hand back, but was stopped when Scar grabbed his wrist which pulled a startled chirp from him.

“No!” He said a bit loudly, which he must have noticed as he cleared his throat and started again. “No, it's okay. You, um, you are going to do my makeup anyways so might as well just do the whole look you know?” He said kindly with an undertone of nerves.

Okay, that is…okay. He's glad Scar doesn't think he's weird. But, Scar doesn't know this is a flock thing. Which makes it still weird. If he brushes Scar's hair then he will definitely go all birdy and flocky and want Scar to be his best friend forever… Okay maybe that's a bit far but it could happen! It's been so long since he's had anybody that his birdy brain is begging him to say yes, but common sense says no. They've literally known each other for a few weeks. Where did this come from?

Well technically they had known each other for quite a bit longer than that but also they were enemies so that didn't count. Probably. Definitely. Maybe.

But, on the other hand, er, claw, maybe if he…indulged… a little bit in this flock thing without Scar knowing then it will go away a bit. Hopefully a lot, but so far his birdy stuff was just getting worse not better. But all he could do was hope it would go away so he might as well give it a shot.

“O-okay. Um, stay still while I fix your hair. After that I’ll do your makeup.” He moved his hand out of Scars soft grasp and back to trying to fix Scar mane. Scar titled his head down a bit so Grian could reach, which was both kind and insulting.

The longer Grian brushed Scars head out into somewhat of a normal HotGuy hairdo, the more relaxed he felt. His wings shifted and let go, spilling off the side of the couch and onto the floor. He could hear himself coo and chitter every once in a while. And once he was done getting his hair to stay perfect, he moved onto his makeup.

“Do you-” Grian spoke but it came out more as a chirp than words, so he cleared his throat and tried again, “Do you have a specific look you want? I know we can't do eyes, but you want feminine or masculine, light or heavy?” He had leaned over to grab come concealer and foundation before looking back to Scar.

The poor man looked a little scared, which made Grian trill with a small smile.

“I…have no clue. Never really had a choice so I don't know what I’d like to do.” He smiled nervously back at Grian while looking at the products in his hands.

“Well, what kind of looks have you seen that you like?” He unscrewed the concealer and started to dab some onto some of the dark spots on Scars face. It was a good thing the Hero had shaved not too long ago from what Grian could tell, or else this might be a bit harder. He took a blender and started to smooth those spots out. Scar started to unconsciously twitch as he did, so he brought his other hand up without a thought, holding onto his cheek as he continued.

Scar sighed and leaned into his hand a bit, much to his bird brained delight.

“I’m not sure…What you did last time to yourself was nice. Don't tell Cub, or anyone else, I said this but,” He paused and lowered his voice considerably, “You know the villain GiGi and her sidekick Vault?” Grian nodded his head as he pumped some foundation onto a blender and put some of Scars face. “I really like what they do. They both have the same look on even though Vault is non-binary. It's pretty cool.”

Hmm. Grian knew who those two were. He supposed if villains had ranking they would be number two. GiGi and Vault were a duo who were very focused on taking over the city to turn it into a forest again. Nature to nature or something like that. Since GiGis power was creating plants from nothing, he supposed that made sense. The city probably created a lot of pollution and the Mayor only seemed to care about making this place bigger. Vault was her right hand. Excellent fighter and known assassin, never known to have a power though. Grian never really ran into them when he was patrolling. They had been on hiatus for a little while now, not causing too much trouble.

Their makeup looks werent too hard to emulate (he couldn't just copy one of them. The media would very much so pick up on something like that.) Honestly from what he remembered from their looks were the intricate eyeliner type stuff. Bold and outstanding. And they both always matched.

Grian looked into Scars eyes, or well, his sunglasses. Usually he wouldn't even suggest he was trying to see through the lenses, but actually looking at the glasses, he truly couldn't see a thing past them.

“I…could do something similar,” Grian said, looking back at the light contour he was applying,”but it wouldn't really be noticed since you wear the glasses, sadly.”

“Well.” He started then stopped, thinking. “Well, I could take them off and you could do it just for me?” He asked quietly. “Besides, I’d have to keep my eyes closed anyways.”

Grian just blinked. And then blinked again. He wanted to wear makeup even if nobody would see it? Well, if it made him more confident (then again Grian didn't know if HotGuy needed anymore confidence. But whatever.) and made him feel good, then what is the harm? And maybe, they could try to borrow more from the two villains.

“Okay. We can do that. Just keep your eyes closed. And after I’m done with that, I’ll do the exact same on my face so that way people will still see it!” He chirped happily. Ugh. More flock things.

Though Scar seemed just as excited. Pulling his glasses off, Grian instinctively closed his eyes. He made sure to wait a few seconds before slowly opening them again. Just as Scar was told, his eyes were closed. Long brown lashes kissing his very obvious eye bags.

Grian laughed to himself, grabbing the concealer again and getting to work. He chose to go for a dramatic wing with some more intricate, yet simple lines around it, along with an orange and pink gradient eye shadow. Finishing off the look with some mascara on his bottom lashes only. He also applies some pinkish lip tint to his lips. Grian leans back to admire his work and smiles happily. Chirping to himself he grabs the handled mirror from the table and places it in Scars hand.

“Okay, open your eyes and look in the mirror!” He closes his eyes tightly, but can't keep the smile off his face or the chirps from leaving his mouth. He hears Scar shuffle around, assumedly looking at himself. He hears a click and some more shuffling.

“You can open your eyes now.” Scar said, he sounded happy so that was a good sign.

Opening his eyes, Grians bird side was slightly disappointed to see that he had covered up his handiwork with those glasses once again, but it was outshined by the pride he felt at Scar blindingly wide smile.

“It's perfect Birdy! You did so well! I don't even know how you were able to do all this so fast!” He picked the mirror up again, checking himself out some more.

Grian preened, smiling and chirping happily that Scar, his flock, liked his preening job. Wait! No! Bad bird! He shook his head, clearing his thoughts. He was meant to indulge a little, not a lot. It's a very slippery slope. Wait, how did he do it so fast?

Abruptly, he remembered they were on a time limit. Snapping his head to the clock he felt his face flush. They had spent 30 minutes doing Scars makeup, so they had less than 30 for him to get completely ready. He still had to do his wings! And makeup! And hair!

He twittered, shocked and anxious. He grabbed the brush from the table and started to brush his hair quickly. He needed to get it into a tight bun at the base of his skull, instead of his normal messy one.

He noticed Scar put the mirror down as soon as Grian started to chirp. Looking confused as Grian started to hurriedly put his hair up in a much too tight bun.

“Hey hey what's the matter?” Scar asked, softly grabbing his arms when he finally finished with his hair.

“We have, like, 25 minutes and I still need to do my makeup and wings.” He put the brush down before grabbing similar products to the ones he used for Scar. His wings can be last cause those should be quick as long as he just makes them presentable and not so much usable.

“Well, um.” Scar started nervously. It gave Grian pause, hearing him nervous. Upon seeing he had Grians attention it seemed to give him confidence. “I could do your wings,” He leaned over the side of the couch to see his wings still spilled over the side, grimacing at their ruffled yet clean state, “while you do your makeup? If it would help?”

Grian froze at the suggestion. Preen his wings? Scar wants to preen his wings? He felt his wings twitch and flap excitedly at the prospect. Grateful chirps and coos escaped his throat that he immediately brought his hands up to try and cover it up.

How embarrassing, like, come on! No, no, no! He couldn't let Scar preen his wings no matter how long it's been since someone had. He was able to make do just fine on his own for years, three years to be exact! Nobody had touched his wings since his family went missing. Well, other than Cub, but that was a low moment he'd like to forget.

But. But…they didn't really have the time. He turned his wide eyes to the clock, 20 minutes. Ugh.

“Look. I um. I know we arent that close yet,” Grian felt himself coo sadly without his consent as Scar spoke. He also saw Scars mouth quirk up into a small smile, but he graciously ignored the sound. Did he know what that meant? Please be a no. “But I do know how to preen wings. I might be a bit uh… out of practice, but it wouldn't take too long.” He says kindly, but he seems just as excited as Grian wings and tweets made him sound. But he also looked nervous, like even the suggestion would make Grian blow up. And honestly, if it was anyone else asking he probably would.

“I-” He didn't want to say no, but he didn't want to say yes. He can't lie to himself, and he knows that even though his avian instincts definitely wanted him to say yes, he can't deny that as a whole he wasn't compelled against it either. They were out of time! And maybe! Only maybe, did he miss the feeling of kind hands between his feathers.

“You don't have to either!” Scar interrupted his thoughts anxiously. Grian must have taken too long to answer. “You could preen your wings now and then maybe do your makeup in the car? I could help you carry all the…uhh makeup things! And I’m sure Cub won't mind us being a little late. Though the other Heros are supposed to be there too so we can't be too late, but don't feel pressured! We can-” Scar continued to ramble about options that they have and while usually Grian would laugh at his anxious rant, unfortunately it had the effect of making Grian calm down a bit. Lovable idiot. Hard to believe that he ever had beef with this guy on the streets if this is how he acts normally.

With a drawn out sigh, drops his hands but keeps his head down.

“Fine. Just, I'm trying not to catapult myself into bird brain mode and we don't have much time so don't worry about making it super comfortable, just look nice.” He said slightly clipped. Without another word, or look at Scar, he turned around with his back facing Scar. He heard Scar shuffle as well, probably sitting crisscrossed like Grian.

Hesitantly, Grian moved his wings off the ground and onto the couch behind him for Scars reach. He felt Scar slowly place his hand on the outside of his right wing, causing it to twitch, which made him draw his hand back quickly. A sad coo poured from his mouth without his permission as well as his wings unconsciously following his hand.

“Are you okay, Pesky Bird?” Scar laughed softly. Grian groaned in response, covering his increasingly reddening cheeks in embarrassment.

“I'm fine. It's been a really long time since I let someone touch them so I’m not used to it. But my bird brain loves it so go ahead. I'm going to do my makeup real quick.” He changed the subject, grabbing some eye primer and a few brushes. He felt Scar shrug from behind him, placing his hand back onto his wing, starting to actually straighten his feathers.

Grian was trying to resolutely ignore the calls he was making. Annoying bird noises that he hadn't heard himself make in years. He moved onto foundation and eyeshadow, trying to keep his mind off it. But clearly Scar doesn't have mind reading powers as Grian hears him clear his throat before speaking up.

“You uh, you said you wanted this to just make them look nice, but wouldn't that impede your ability to fly if they aren't in the proper places?” He dug a little but further into his wings, further than just a tune up job. But Grian didn't stop him.

“It would take too long to preen them perfect. You said you've done this before, so I-” He stops abruptly, pulling the brush away from his eye and looking into the mirror at himself. He tilts it to the side to catch Scars reflection. He looks concentrated. More concentrated than he's ever seen the man. Fixing feathers into place with a confident hand of someone who had done this many times before. He goes back to affixing the last touches of his eye shadow, grabbing his eyeliner next. “I trust you know what you are doing to a certain extent so…Do what you can. I already cleaned them in the shower so just go quick enough to look good and do what you know.” Grian says quietly and they lap into silence.

Flicking an eye at the clock they have about eight minutes left. Good enough for him but Scar just moved onto his other wing. They can make it, even if they might be a little late.

“You know,” Scar suddenly spoke up startling Grian enough where he almost messed up his intricate liner. “I used to do this before almost every mission for Watcher.” He states as if he's not paying attention. Which he totally isn't. Just saying words as he has his undivided attention of Grians wings. Grian stays quiet, opting to listen to what he might say while continuing to finish his look.

“I was new. Compared to everyone else. And I'll admit, I'd never met an avian before. We had just come off of the new Inclusionary Treaty a few years prior and hybrids were finally feeling more welcome in the city.” He sighed, fixing a feather that made Grian chirp. It had been bugging him for a bit. “None of them really trusted me at first I mean, I got it. They had been a group for three years then suddenly the council added some kid. But they never made me feel unwelcome. We just all had to learn about each other first. Before every mission Watcher needed to preen his wings cause he wasn't sure when he would get the time next. He usually let Red or Moon do it for him, sometimes Mighty as well. But never me.”

Grian felt himself let out a sad coo as he continued the story. He tried to stifle it, much to Scars amusement. He was putting the finishing touches on the eyeliner now, pulling the mirror back with a satisfied hum. It looked exactly like Scars under the sunglasses.

“It had taken him a year and a half before he finally trusted me enough to let me even touch his wings.” He continues, finishing the secondaries and primaries. “He said,” He laughed, taking his hands off his wings. Grian turns around watching as Scar speaks, smiling and waving his hands. “He said that even though I was good with a bow, I was a bit too soft when preening. But after that I was added to the preening rotation until-” He cut off abruptly, the smile dropping from his face, dropping his hands slowly. “Its…its been a while since I did this. But I remember pretty well so…if you ever need help again I don't mind if you don't.” He smiled kindly at Grian, but it didn't quite reach his eyes.

Grian cooed sadly, but this time he meant to. He flaps his wings, feeling out for how well Scar did and was very pleasantly surprised. Not only were they set right, but also functional. The feathers were actually in the right places and not just twisted to lay straight. He looks over his shoulder, and they look perfect as well. It had been a long time, and then even longer, since he had cleaned and perfectly preened wings. He looked back at Scar with a huge smile on his face.

“He taught you very well, Scar, thank you.” He hopes that his voice betrayed how grateful he is, wanting Scar to feel better about his loss.

It seems to work as Scar brightens up a bit, getting to his feet and offering a hand to Grian. Chirping a laugh, Grian takes it and is helped up.

“You are very welcome, Birdy.” He bowed dramatically, throwing one hand out. Grian barked a laugh, pulling his hand out of Scars hand to cross his arms.

“Yeah yeah don't get a big head!” He scoffed with a smile. He looked at the clock, and froze. Scar took notice and looked over as well. They had to leave, now.

“Shit!” Grian squawked, spurring them both into motion. Grian scrambled back to his bathroom grabbing his boots, heart shaped glasses along with some small jewelry that Cub had sent with the outfit. On the way back to the main room he grabbed his bow and quiver. He saw Scar doing much the same, sitting back on the couch shoving his shoes on as fast as possible.

Grian strapped his quiver on quickly, throwing his bow over his head. Leaning against the wall, he pulls one of his boots on. Hopping on one foot to get it on all the way before doing the same with the next. He heard some laughing in front of him and when he looks up he sees Scar, HotGuy, perfectly ready to go laughing at his hops.

Scoffing, Grian finally gets the shoe on and beelines to the door purposefully leaving Scar behind. He opened the door walking into the hallways, leaving the door open because he's not that mean.

“Hey!” He hears Scar yell, followed quickly by footsteps behind him. Without looking back he hears his door click shut as Scar finally slides up next to him in the hallway. He bumps their shoulders as they wait for the elevator.

“Careful now, if you mess up my hair Cub is going to be more pissed than he's already going to be.” Grian shoved back laughing when the door dinged and opened for them. They continued to push each other laughing while walking past the doors. Scar hit the level for Cubs office and then continued to goof off waiting to stop on the office floor.

By the time the doors finally opened they had mostly calmed down. Walking into Cubs office both with smiles on their faces. When Scar pushed the doors open though, the smiles dropped as they saw Cub waiting for them with his clipboard in his hand.

His face was blank as he watched the two close the doors behind them except for the blue tint to his eyes. He was dressed differently than what he usually was. Instead of the lab coat covered in various sewing supplies, he was wearing a nicely fitted dark blue suit, with an orange to pink ombre tie. He had a pen floating around his shoulder, yet he didn't reach for it.

Scar and Grian just stood next to each other looking between each other and Cub, waiting for him to say anything.

Grian would admit, he didn't know Cub all that well. He seemed like a nice guy. Their unfortunate second meeting had not gone as well as it could have, but with the apology he'd been given, he liked to think that Cub was a bit of an easy going guy. But the fact that even Scar seemed nervous, made him feel the same.

“You two are late.” He said finally with a sigh. He brought the clipboard up pulling a few pages up, scanning them, then letting out an annoyed sigh dropping it to his side. “Neither of you are in any of the approved looks I sent you. But it's much too late to fix that. We have to get down to the lobby with the rest of the Heros.”

Grian and Scar looked at each other with relieved sighs. So they weren't getting in trouble! Yes!

“The media was informed last night of the red carpet event today, as well as the release of the pictures from the photoshoot. So, they are expecting CuteGuy to be in attendance.”

Suddenly, Grian felt the weight of the world land on his shoulders. Oh yeah. He almost forgot about the whole “you're a Hero now and everyone will be looking at you no matter what” thing. He felt a bit faint at the realization. He swallowed thickly, tuning out the rest of Cubs itinerary to look over to Scar.

The man was watching Cub with a serious look on his face. Nodding along as he spoke about the next steps for the day. Scar had obviously done things like this before, but he continued listening to Cub.

He should probably listen as well considering he had never done anything like this before. Turning back to try and pay attention to Cub, he tried to focus on his words.

“The other Heros are going to pair up and go down the red carpet with whoever they want this time, as you two will be last anyways.” He said, finally leading them out the door and back into the elevator they just came from.

He watched Scar walk with a perfect, smooth, confident glide. Standing tall with an easy smile on his face. Conviction writing in the aura around him. Okay. So maybe that's how this is supposed to work. Scar transformed into HotGuy, and while he still wasn't sure who CuteGuy was, he had to be him now. Okay. That's fine. He can try that.

He can just be who he is all the time.

“Wait,” Grian heard himself speak. “You said all the Heros are going to be coming?” They are all waiting in the elevator. Cub looks up from his board and HotGuy looks over to him when he speaks.

“Yes. It's traditional.” Cub says, waving his pen in the air before going back to writing something down.

“So,” He starts, crossing his arms and leaning against the wall. “You’re telling me that for the next few hours, the streets of Hermit Empire aren't being patrolled by Heros, for any thug to do as they wish?” He asks with a certain amount of sass.

He watches as Cub stops writing, staring down at his board. He hears a small snort to the side of him and upon looking that way he sees HotGuy trying his best to hold in a laugh by resolutely staring at the doors.

“Well. That's way above my pay grade to worry about. But I assume the council has some plan in place.” Cub huffs something that might sound like a laugh. Grian feels a bit proud that he was able to get even that much, looking to HotGuy to see him smiling as well.

The doors finally open to the first floor lobby. It had been a little over a week since he had last been down here. It felt like yesterday though.

There were many Heros down here, all of them in little groups talking among themselves dressed in their full uniforms. There were quite a few that he didn't recognize. Of course there were the ones he did, such as StarVoid, Queen of Hearts, Tek and so on. But then there was this group talking around the front entrance. One was dressed in a pirate aesthetic which Grian thought was weird but somehow the man dressed as a wild west sheriff was weirder. How had he never seen these Heros before?

When they walked out of the elevator and into the main room they suddenly all got quiet. All turning their heads to look at the trio. He made sure to keep his head up like HotGuy, yet walk slightly behind. Cub led them to the center without looking up from his clipboard, stopping and scribbling before finally addressing the whole room.

“Alright! Big day everyone! You all should have read the file that had been sent to your comm. Hopefully you have picked your partners already and have coordinated accordingly. The vehicles and drivers are waiting right outside. Four to a car, and please mind the media! We are already late so let's get a move on!” He pointed out the door, spurring the Heros to form a line with HotGuy and them at the end.

“Hey, by the way, you forgot your lipstick.” Cub said, drawing Grians attention.

“Did I?” He asked, touching his lips with a claw. Drawing back he looked at his glove seeing no pink tint. “Oh no!” He turned his widened eyes to HotGuy who just shrugged with a grimace. He turned back to Cub, who just rolled his eyes. Suddenly his eyes turned blue, and from his pocket emerged a tube of the lip tint he had been using. It flew into Grians still raised palm, which he automatically closed around it.

“It's my job to remember what you forget. Don't try too hard though.” He smirked at his confused, grateful stare.

He felt slightly embarrassed for forgetting. While they had been in a hurry, he had looked at himself in the mirror and still forgot. But, CuteGuy didn't get embarrassed. He did everything with purpose and poise. Probably.

“I totally meant to do that.” He smiled, still opening the bottle, applying it before giving it back to Cub. Both HotGuy and Cub scoffed and rolled their eyes, yet both were left with a smile.

Slowly the cars filled up and the line got smaller. Until finally only the three of them were left. With a deep breath, he grabbed HotGuys arm. HotGuy looked over at him but he just gave him a smirk. He was flashed a similar smirk back accompanied by a lax shrug. Cub walked out first, and he instantly heard the click of cameras and the shout of many voices clamoring over each other to ask Cub questions, knowing that HotGuy would be after him.

The final acknowledgment that he was about to have many pictures of himself taken, and half the eyes of the city was finally setting in. It didn't make him quite as nervous as it used to, but it made him pull his wings in more. Old habits die hard. He just didn't want to be too in the way.

With one final deep breath, he pulled his heart glasses down over his eyes, dowsing the world in a pink tint. He nodded to HotGuy, who smiled down at him, urging them forward and out the doors outside. Immediately he was bombarded with what felt like hundreds of flashing lights. Distorintated, he held tighter onto HotGuys arm tilting his head up to try and catch his face.

But HotGuy was looking away from him and into the crowd. He had his other hand lifted, waving and smiling so bright he commanded attention. Grian though, felt his heart in his throat. Beating wildly against his chest, while he was solidly trying to ignore the crowd around them. They were shouting questions, waving microphones at them both as Cub pushed through giving them a path.

A few braver reporters shoved at Cub, pushing their cameras and microphones in Grians face, making him pause his steps pulling HotGuy with him.

His first reaction was to grimace at the audacity. He's just some guy, no need to push and be rude. But then he saw the flashes go off and he remembered himself. Oh yeah. He has to be nice and pleasant.

He forged a smile onto his face, titling his head cutely to the side. He opened his mouth to probably say something nice, but probably snarky but found no sound came out. His wings twitched a bit, which he made sure to snap shut as he realized. With a quiet chitter he looked from the lady to the microphone and back, frozen.

Then he felt a presence lean over his shoulder.

“Hello Kristin, lovely to see you here. We aren't taking questions right now. CuteGuy and I will see you at the red carpet dear.” HotGuy spoke, the reporter flashing a red cheeked smile. He gently grabbed Grians hand that was holding onto his arm, pulling him quickly along and all but shoving him into the tinted black car. He scooched into the center seat with HotGuy dropping next to him, shutting the door on many voices trying to gain his attention. Cub had taken the passenger seat, and once the door finally closed he told the driver to go.

The car was quiet. Grian, because he was slightly reeling from what just happened. That could have gone better but honestly, it could have gone much much worse so that's great!

Suddenly, he heard a stifled giggle from his side. Shifting to the side (cars seats and wings weren't the best match. Made them all squished and, after a while, sore. But he wasn't one to complain. Too much anyways.) he caught HotGuy laughing while looking out the window. Clearly purposefully not looking at Grian. It made him pout.

“What!” he asked, shoving at his shoulder. Unfortunately it just made him laugh harder. Grian pouted harder, crossing his arms and squinted his eyes trying to piece together what he was laughing at.

“Never, and I mean never, stop when there's a flood of reporters like that. You just have to keep walking. Or else then they will all pounce.” He huffed, finally turning to look back at Grian, who had dropped his arms, interested in what he was saying.

“But, isn't that kind of rude? Just to ignore them?” That didn't seem like a Hero thing to do. Shouldn't they be super nice and stuff? Make people like them and look good for the media.

“You aren't ignoring them though. As long as you smile and wave, maybe shake a few hands, then you are being polite enough.” He pointed finger guns at Grian, making his scoff a laugh.

He supposed that makes sense. They do have places to be so they can't realistically talk to every person in the Empire that wants to talk to them. Which, really, was just a ridiculous thought to have anyways. So many people want to talk to them . Wild concept that he doesn't think he ever will get completely used to.

“I…guess that makes sense.” He hummed, looking past HotGuy out the window. He usually never drove downtown. It was such a walkable place there was no reason to (and also totally not because he couldn't afford an actual vehicle).

They were slowly passing tall skyscrapers with people absolutely packed onto the sidewalks. On both sides of the road a barricade placed with people watching the cars goes by, guessing who was in each car. He leaned over HotGuy, closer to the window with wide eyes. That was a lot of people.

He knew that the windows were black out, so he didn't feel worried about getting close. He caught sight of a few people dressed as Heros. Cosplayers cheered as the cars drove by, there were even a few hastily put together CuteGuy outfits as well. So those pictures really did go viral last night then huh.

“Where are we going?” He heard himself ask, leaning back to watch HotGuy and Cub.

He heard Cub scoff a laugh, along with HotGuy who titled his head back against the headrest.

“You didn't listen to anything Cub said did you?” He laughed. But upon seeing Grians pout, he barked a laugh and continued. “As we were told,” He started cheekily, “we are going to Sahara Park, which is only a few blocks away. It's where we usually hold Hero media meetings since it's close to the center of Hermit Empire. There's a huge stage set up with a red carpet set up on the road leading to it.” He waved his hand flippantly as he explained.

HotGuy looked down at his lap, fixing his quiver affixed to his thigh. Making sure it was tight enough before flicking his eyes to Grian. He felt a little scrutinized as HotGuy raked his eyes over him making sure he looked right.

“Where is your respawn bracelet?” He asked seriously, much to Grians confusion. He had heard of them and knew there was apparently one in the things Cub had sent, but it didn't really fit his outfit so he didn't think about it.

But before he could voice as much, Cub had stretched his arm over the back of his seat. A black wristband with a red blinking light between his fingers. HotGuy laughed, taking it from Cubs hand and reaching for Grians hand. Accepting it, he clasps the band around his wrist. It was tight and sturdy he noticed, twisting his arm around to look at it.

“What does it do?” He asked simply, even if he felt a bit stupid for asking.

“It's…complicated. We can talk about it later when we have time.” HotGuy answered, waving his hand, dismissing the thought.

The car slowed to stop, Cub immediately stepping out and closing the door behind him. HotGuy smoothed out his shirt and pants. Making sure that his bow was around his shoulder just right and running a hand through his hair. He watched out the window until Cub gave some sort of gesture, then he placed his hand on the door. He hesitated, looking at Grian.

He could feel his heart beating. At this point it couldn't be healthy to have his heart rate up this high for this long. But the look on HotGuys face calms his nerves a bit more.

“Listen, just. Stick with me and everything will be fine. People are going to ask you weird questions or they might…try and touch you, but just stay with me. Tell me and I’ll answer and handle anything you don't want to, okay? Now, we need to get out there and have some fun! This is supposed to be fun too, worry about everything else later! I'm going to come around to your side to open your door for you in a minute. A little bit of a reveal!” Grian could tell he was rambling a bit. It's nice to know that there's still some Scar in HotGuy. It's also kind of nice to be able to tell as well.

With a final nod and smile, Scar steps out of the car. Taking Cubs hand to help him out, waving his hand at the roaring crowd with a signature, flashy smile. The door was shut behind him, muting the screams of the crowd giving Grian a moment alone. Well, other than the driver. But that guy hasn't spoken a word since they all got in and Grian couldn't even see their face from where he was.

Scooting over to the other side of the car to await HotGuys arrival, he watched the crowd. They had plenty of room on either side of the car, the barricade doing their job. All kinds of different people were here. Men, women, children and everyone in between or outside of, along with hybrids of many types were all reaching over or had their phones out taking pictures and videos.

There were a few people on the other side of the fence with professional looking cameras and lanyards. The more Grian looked around the more he wondered about how long in the making this had been. This was very planned out since this whole road was blocked off and somehow half the Empire knew to come even though they had only been given the pictures last night.

Suddenly, the crowd nearest Grian started going wild. Pushing each other against the barricade and reaching their hands as far as they could. He heard the screaming kick up even from behind closed doors. Then he saw HotGuy around his way, putting a hand on the handle of his door. Oh yeah that made sense then.

HotGuy waited, like the good friend he was trying to be. Giving Grian one final moment to breathe and have one last moment to himself. Like HotGuy, he took the time to smooth out invisible wrinkles. Make sure his bow and quiver were set just nicely and his hair and makeup were just so. He even ran a hand through his feathers on his wings and ears just to keep them straight.

Then, the door clicked, signaling Grians doom. The sunlight illuminated him as the door was opened. The fans were going crazy, yet somehow it felt like the world was holding her breath. HotGuy reached his hand down, offering help to step out and into the light. With a shaky hand, he placed his claws in his hand, stepping a leg out. Followed by the rest of himself. He blinked a few times, eyes adjusting from the dark car to the bright outside. Along with the cascade of flashes from camera after camera.

He made sure to smile up at HotGuy as nicely as he could. Holding back onto his arm for a moment until he got his footing in the heels. He dropped his arms, grazing his bow on the way down if only for his own comfort.

Turning away from HotGuy finally addressed the crowd. Smiling, or maybe smirking, he raised his hand and waved. And in this specific case, Grian finally understands the phrase “and the crowd goes wild!” So many people shouting his name and screaming questions was overwhelming. He couldn't even make out most of the words being shouted at him.

So, he did as HotGuy said and just smiled and nodded his head. He started walking with HotGuy around their car and a little ways down the rest of the block. Both waving and smiling as people scrambled to try and get their attention. This has gotta be the weirdest experience in Grians entire life.

They made it too a sidewalk that was blocked off from the public moreso. As stereotypical as it sounds, it truly did have a red carpet over the top of it. Against the side of the building on the corner were backdrops of various prints, and in the blocked off street was a swarm of reporters and paparazzi. There was a barricade behind the reporters, with people screaming and reaching for them still.

At the end of this two block street Grian could see the setup of the stage they were heading for but it was hard to see above the scampering people. He could see some of the Heros that he had seen in the lobby still walking down the carpet, talking to people and getting their pictures taken as well. They truly were the last to get there.

He once again held onto HotGuys arm, both stepping up onto the sidewalk and onto the plush carpet. He followed HotGuys lead. Walking where he did and stopping when he stopped. He noticed that on the ground there were certain markers telling them which part of the media the camera in front of them represented. He was surprised when HotGuy skipped past the first two without so much as a glance. He didn't get a good look at the marker, but he's curious why they were worth the skip.

Finally they stopped in front of a person holding a microphone on their side of the barricade. They were short. Shorter than Grian, with cropped short black hair held back by a beanie. They were in a purple suit and white shoes. Very ‘Hero Association’ if Grian got an opinion.

As soon as they stopped, lights started flashing. He tried his best to pose naturally. Mirroring HotGuy, but with a bit more CuteGuy mixed it. He rolled his eyes at a guy in the crowd getting yelled at for pushing, and even more flashes went off. After a majority were through, HotGuy stepped forward towards the reporter who was speaking into the camera.

“Hello and welcome back Channel 10! To Aimee's Hot Tea morning show! We are finally at the main course right here, HotGuy and CuteGuy!” They had an accent like his, he noticed as he sided up next to HotGuy. They quickly turned to the Heros, squealing in delight seeing them both there. He just nervously smiled and waved a clawed hand at them.

“Why hello Aimee! Been a long time since I’ve seen you! How's the girlfriend?” HotGuy leaned into the mic while looking directly at the camera. The poor reporter went bright red, stuttering about how they were doing well together.

“Oh you charmer! We are all here to talk about you, not me!” They countered, which made HotGuy throw his head back with a distinguished bark of laughter. He suddenly reached around and pulled Grian further in front of himself.

“I think you’ll find that this morning is more about us and him, more than me. He's the real star of the show. You should've seen his audition. Absolute powerhouse with a bow and arrow, though never better than me I’ll tell ya.” Suddenly, an elbow found its way into HotGuys' side. Accompanied by ‘oof’ as the poor Hero wasn't expecting it. Serves him right, Grian thinks. He'd rather talk about himself. Thank you very much.

The reporter's eyes were wide and their mouth was dropped into a small ‘o’. Grian cleared his throat. Right. If he was going to try and command attention like a good Hero should, then he would have to try and keep it too.

“Hi, I’m ‘him’. CuteGuy, the new partner of the critically acclaimed Hero HotGuy. And I’d say my bow skills are at a very similar level with HotGuy, if not better.” He gave a small giggle at the end of his sentence, watching HotGuy recover his voice. He felt weirdly proud like, where did that come from? Didn't even stutter! The reporter Aimee recovered and got to him before HotGuy.

“Well hello!” They said excitedly, recovering quickly. “It's an honor to meet you, CuteGuy! I think I can speak for the whole of Hermit Empire when I say that it was quite the surprise when we found out last night that HotGuy got a partner! I think we are all dying to know, firstly, pronouns and preferred name?” The question made Grian smile. Out of all the questions he expected, this was a nice first one to get. He could see why HotGuy beelined for their mic.

“Well, first off, thank you for asking! And secondly, CuteGuy is perfectly fine by me, and any of its variants. Thirdly, I use he/him no matter how I dress!” He followed HotGuys lead and looked right into the camera as he smiled. It was getting easier to tune out the other flashes of cameras around him as long as he focused on this one.

“Of course! HotGuy, any changes we should know of?” They point the mic closer to HotGuy awaiting a response.

“Same as always for me Aimee, thanks for checking though!” He gave finger guns to the camera which made Grian grimace. That would not be something he would be doing.

“Alrighty! I’ve already kept you guys a bit over my time so one last question for the Cutey. From our Bitter poll, the world wants to know, what is your power and is it similar to HotGuys?” They pointed the mic straight at Grian as he smirked and laughed. He leaned in close as if he was sharing a secret. They all leaned in and waited for his response with baited breath. He cleared his throat for dramatic effect.

“I actually have zero powers. Everything I do is because of my avian nature and hours of practice.” He finished pulling back and bumping into HotGuy, who looked as if he was holding back a laugh. Again, the reporter looked stunned, but as their job required them to do, recovered quickly.

“That is amazing! Congratulations and I know we all can't wait to see the good you’ll do for this city!” They say before spinning back to talk into the camera some more. Something about the amazing opportunity and interesting answers.

He, along with HotGuy continued to walk down the carpet, stopping wherever HotGuy knew they should. The next few they just took pictures for and no interviews. Just to be cheeky, in one picture he pulled HotGuys bow, stretching the string as he leaned away from HotGuy as he held it. He just held a smug look as HotGuy tried to be mad at him. But no matter whatever Grian did, HotGuy just looked proud somehow.

And to be honest, Grian was feeling a bit proud of himself too. He was so unbelievably worried for this day and being seen by so many people, but this isn't nearly as bad as he pictured.

Inbewteen pictures and interviews Grian would walk up to the barricade with HotGuy. He saw how HotGuy would reach over and shake a few hands, maybe lay a kiss on a few. He would ask a few non-invasive questions and even sign a few pictures or notebooks. After a few moments Grian started to as well, much to HotGuys excitement.

While saying goodbye to a very kind boy he had met, Grian heard an annoying voice shout their way.

“HotGuy! HotGuy! Over here! BirdGirl too!” He was just about to walk by like HotGuy had said to do, but was stopped by the man himself. When he looked over, HotGuy just sighed while he looked at the reporter calling them over. He tilted his head to whipster into Grians ear. If he wasn't so curious he would've been more weirded out about the amount of flashes that went off at that.

“We have to talk with him, unfortunately. Just let me do the talking and just get this over with.” He murmured, barely loud enough over the crowd. He turned to look over at the reporter. The man was dressed in an ill-fitted black suit. He had HotGuy sunglasses on along with a fedora. He was using his phone as his microphone and his friend with a separate phone as his camera.

Not one to judge, he confidently walks over to the two with his head held high and his wings tucked in tight.

“Why hello there Damien! It has sure been a while since I’ve seen you!” HotGuy smiled, though Grian could tell it was the most forced smile he had seen all night. It made him curious what this guy was about, if it got a reaction like that from the HotGuy.

“Too long I’d say!” He all but shouted. He then turned to his camera, addressing it instead of the two Heros. “What's up Dame Nation! I just got unbanned from Hero Debuts to bring you, my millions of devoted fans, the real details about Heros we want to know.” The cameraman was moving the camera around so much it was giving Grian vertigo, and he's a bird. “Look at these two guys! The Hero of the hour and his new so-called ‘partner.’ Let's see what juicy details we can get out of her. Who knows what freaky stuff HotGuy might get up to!” He then turns back to them, HotGuy holding back another sigh. He sends Grian a look which without his eyes, he can only interpret to mean not to yell at this guy. But Grian could already feel his blood starting to boil and it was starting in his fingertips. But he just saw HotGuy shake his head back at him.

Fine! He won't go ballistic. But he won't take it lying down either. Sure, HotGuy was supposed to take care of the talking to this guy, but it wouldn't hurt if he said a few words. Probably.

He smiled at HotGuy, which just made him shake his head harder, but the decision had already been made. He flipped his smile onto kind and leaned down to speak into the phone mic. He batted his eyelashes and tilted his head to the side. The reporter also leaned in, looking at Grians lips as they parted before he spoke.

“I am a man.” He said simply into the mic, leaning back with a threatening smile. “Oh, and it's CuteGuy. Not BirdGirl. Nice try though, I know reading can be hard for some people.” Grian brought a claw up inspecting his talons, even though they were covered by gloves. This was fun. It was much easier to talk to assholes than nice people anyways. Less to censor.

The reporter gawked for a moment. Looking between HotGuy and him as if he was going to help him. Realistically, HotGuy probably should've done something. Insulting media reporters probably wasn't the best way to gain the support of the public. But HotGuy was busy holding back his laugh to try and help the reporter out of the hole he had dug himself.

Somehow, the man recovered. Shaking his head and moving on as if nothing even happened.

“Sure. CuteGuy. But what's your real name?” Really? Had this guy not gotten the message the first time? But before he could pile on the sass, HotGuy spoke up.

“Really? Damien, has that worked on any Heroes ever?” He laughed. The man just shrugged, laughing nervously with him. He kept looking back at Grian as if he was going to jump him. Honestly depending on his next question, he might.

“Okay okay, final question for the vlog family. Who's the top?” Grians jaw dropped. How dare he ask such a question! He looked at HotGuy, who just looked disappointed. He started to walk away, dragging Grian along, ready to ignore the question.

Hell no! Grian pulled his arm out of HotGuys hand. Turning to look directly into the camera and talk clearly into the mic.

“Your mother!” He shouted as HotGuy actually grabbed his shoulder, pulling him along. But he wasn't done. “And she's huge!” Finally HotGuy pulled him fully away, leaving the stupid reporter left in whatever emotional devastation he just caused.

Finally on the next set of reporters they stopped for pictures. And then, HotGuy finally let go. Both of Grian, and his breath. He doubled over, surprising Grian. He was laughing harder than he probably should've been in such a place. Grian just threw on a smile, acting like told the funniest joke so the media would have something to frame well.

It took HotGuy three more people before he finally calmed down enough to talk to another reporter. He was catching his breath when he leaned down to talk into Grians ear again.

“I’ve been wanting to do that for years, Birdy, you have no idea.” He giggled again. “Cub is going to be so pissed.” He stood back up, pointed ahead of them a bit. They only had about half a block left until the stairs that led up to the stage. “We only have time for two more interviews before the speeches, so let's get these over with yeah?” He smiled, pulling him over to a man speaking Spanish into a live camera. He had glasses and slicked back dark brown hair. When he noticed the two of them walking up, he turned to them with a bright smile.

“¡Hola chicos! ¿Cómo están?” He asks, holding a purple mic between the two.

“Hola Mariana! We are great, thanks for coming out today!” HotGuy replies smoothly, reaching to shake the guy's hand.

“Bien! I will make it easy for you guys today! Only one question for Mr. CuteGuy.” After he shakes HotGuys hand, he pretends his grip was very strong, waving his hand out acting like it hurt. HotGuy laughs, shaking his head at his antics. It makes Grian smile as well.

“Just because it's one question doesn't mean it'll be easy!” Grian counters, hoping to gain a laugh. Which he's surprised when he does, both HotGuy and Mariana laugh jovially.

“You might be right! My only question for you is why did you want to become a Hero?” He asks, tilting the mic closer to Grian.

Oh. Mariana may have hit the nail on the head with that one, that question is not easy. He certainly had the answer he gave to the Heros at his audition. He also had the real answer. And then he had the real answer. Three different stories yet only one of them was one he can actually tell. So, he retells a simplified version of what he told the Heros.

“When I was really young, during the Mycelium War, I was saved by a Hero when my parents were missing. Ever since then I’ve wanted to follow in the footsteps of that Hero. I’ve been trying to get an audition for years. I’m proud to say that I was never expecting to land being HotGuys partner, but here we are!” He finished with a smile. He was speaking to the camera, making sure to keep his voice soft and even. Sure, he was lying. But the world didn't need to know that.

“Ahh what a beautiful answer from the new Heros partner CuteGuy! I don't want to keep you two too long! I look forward to meeting again!” He holds out his hand to Grian, who takes it with a light shake. He does the same joke he did with HotGuy though, making them both laugh as they walk away to the last marker on the ground. They pose nicely one last time before walking up to the frazzled looking new anchor. She was dressed in a long floor length dark purple dress.

But before they could even get up to her, Cub came down the stairs, waving them over. Looking at each other, they both shrugged at the same time and walked over to him, not that the anchor even noticed.

“We are running behind schedule. Stand here, I’m going to get StarVoid to start announcing you guys and do the whole before speech like he normally does. Don't move.” For the first time Cub sounds a bit stressed when talking. Usually he is calm and collected, nothing betraying how stressful a situation might be.

He turns and leaves them at the steps of the stage. Looking behind himself, he sees many of the reporters turning away from the sidewalk and pushing to get closer to the front of the stage. A few stayed where they were, pointing their cameras at him and HotGuy still, hoping for a killer shot.

Unfortunately for them, there was no time to give them an exclusive as the voice of StarVoid echoed down the street. From where they were it was a bit hard to make out exactly what he was saying, but Grian caught something about taking on three sidekicks, but only one of them being debuted today. A few things about his audition maybe?

And then, the crowd erupted seemingly out of nowhere. It made him jump, wings flapping behind him to steady himself. HotGuy just pulled his arm onto his, having him grab onto him like he had been doing, and walking them both up the stairs.

On the stage were all the Heros he had and hadn't met. All standing behind a single podium on stage. As Grian and HotGuy finally stepped up the last stair, the crowd somehow got even louder. He was on the side closest to them, so he was who they all saw first.

Turning to face them, he was stunned. The whole street for the next several blocks were packed with people. Screaming fanatics with phones lifted taking pictures of. Of them. Of him.

Okay so maybe he wasn't actually getting used to this.

He waited for HotGuy to face the crowd with him before holding his arm again. Like always, the Hero raises his hand and smiles at the crowd. Almost everyone waves back. He laughs and continues to wave, silently encouraging Grian to do the same, so he follows along. Waving at a few people in particular, since he can make eye contact with them when HotGuy can’t. Those people practically swoon and the acknowledgement. It makes him feel weird, but this is being a Hero he supposes.

HotGuy pulls him lightly over to the podium. StarVoid claps him on the back kindly as he lets the Hero and his new sidekick take over. Without actually speaking a word he turns and walks over to the other Heroes and stands next to Tek and a Hero he had never met.

“Why hello there beautiful people of Hermit Empire!” He paused as the crowd cheered, speaking again when they calmed down a bit. “It is a great honor that I come here today and announce my apprentice! The pupil I have taken under my wing!”

As he continued talking Grian just kept scanning the crowd. That is so many people. Like. A ridiculous amount of people who put their lives on hold to come watch a speech from some random dude. Well. It isn't really just some random dude . It's the number one Hero in the Hero Association, and his brand new sidekick. A sidekick that a number one Hero has never had. Sure, maybe it's a once in lifetime event. But still. Way too many people.

He scans the faces. Faces of people that he used to scan at night. Patrolling and making sure these people were safe walking home at night. Helping them carry groceries and cross the street. And now here he is, in front of at least half of them if not more.

And somehow, some way, he's not viciously overwhelmed. He feels somewhat confident. The longer he stands up here, seeing faces to protect, he feels slightly welcomed.Like this is what he's meant to do or that he's done it before all his life. A weird feeling of deja vu hits him, but for the life of him he can't remember where from.

He finally turns to look back at HotGuy and somehow the Hero is still talking. Turning back on what he's talking about makes him sneer.

“And after I saw what a magnificent archer he was at his audition, I just knew he would be perfect to protect the wonderful people of this city! Furthermore-” With a sudden burst of confidence, HotGuys finds his mouth is full of feathers and he's being pushed to the side of the podium.

“You talk a lot…” Grian says, purposefully loud enough for the mic to pick up, but still directed at HotGuy. He felt the audience gasp, all shocked at his audacity to use his wings to push HotGuy away. But as HotGuy spits out a feather, they start laughing. HotGuy pretends to be mad, but again, all Grian can see is pride.

“Hello all! My name is CuteGuy and I have been working in Hermit Empires for as long as I can remember. I am excited to be partnered with HotGuy and I am grateful to be a Hero. I will work my hardest to protect you all, while learning what it truly means to be a Hero. This is an opportunity that I must prove to you and I wont stop till I every single one of you knows you are safe as long as we are around. Thank you all for your support!” He holds his hand in a heart shape before turning to HotGuy. “And that's a speech, SmallGuy.” Again, just loud enough for the crowd to hear and irrupt in roaring laughter.

He smiled cheekily to HotGuy, who did have a little hint of embarrassment on his face. His cheeks slightly red at being the butt of the joke. Where he would've been pissed a week ago, he's now proud of Grian speaking up. He holds his hand out to Grian, who took it. They both walked across the stage and down the stairs of the other side. He heard StarVoid take up the mic again, but the rest of the Heros were following them off as well.

On the other side, at the bottom of the steps, Cub was waiting. He had his arms crossed and a puckered look on his face. Frankly, he looked pissed. It made Grian pause, why was he upset? He knew he had been pushing his luck, did he finally go too far with the wings stuff? It's always the wings… Nowadays he forgets himself in public. He looks to HotGuy, who continues to pull them down the stairs. He looks ecstatic. Smiling brightly and a pep in his step walking straight past Cub with barely even a glance.

He ushered them quickly into another black tinted car, the two shoving themselves in the same seats as last time. Cub got in last, and as soon as he closed his door, the car took off back toward the Hero Tower. Somehow, luckily, even though there were thousands of people on the streets trying to get to their cars or home, they had almost a smooth ride back.

It was only a few minutes to get back to the Hero Tower, as opposed to the five or ten it took the first time. The entire time Grian felt a wound tight, anxiety dripping off him in wafts. Cub had not spoken a word, yet HotGuy seemed oblivious. Or maybe purposefully unobservant.

It felt a bit like whiplash. He went from the fantastic high of a job well done, to the oppressive aura of possibly pissing someone off. He's not quite sure what he could have done. He was with HotGuy the whole time! And there was nothing that would've gotten them in trouble. Okay. Well. Maybe there were a few things he had done today that were not strictly within Cubs parameters of conduct.

The vehicle rolled to a stop, HotGuy immediately opened the door. Unfortunately, the door was surrounded in a blue haze, and then slammed shut forcing HotGuys hand back. Grian raised an eyebrow. Alright that was a bit dramatic even for him. But it certainly didn't help the stew of anxious thoughts, a feeling swirling in his mind and stomach. He started to fiddle with his claws if only to just get out some of the nervous energy in the tinted car.

“I can't believe you two!” Cub said through gritted teeth.

“I know! We did so well! I’m so proud of Grian! I also missed talking to Aim-” HotGuy bragged. Waving his hand nonchalantly as if they weren't about to get chewed out by their PR manager.

“No!” Cub interrupted, HotGuy pouted, but stopped talking. He seemed more confused when Cub spoke again. “I leave you guys alone to conduct interviews without my help, and you insult a reporter and his mother on camera!” Grian grimaced, looking down to his feet, his leg bouncing nervously. Okay so maybe he could have tried to hold his tongue. Goddamnit, somehow within the two weeks he had been here he managed to piss Cub off twice!

“Not only that, but you two are the most oblivious when it comes to posing together and the other angles that may have been taken advantage of. You two are partners. A Hero and a sidekick. Not anything more, especially to the media! You have no idea how much work you've made for me to fix this. Especially you, Grian.” Grian jumped at hearing his real name, he felt like a child getting scolded. And honestly what was happening wasn't too far off.

“Hitting and insulting HotGuy in front of the press as if they don't think he's the man who gave you a job. As much as I love the bickering behind closed doors, and I know you two are good friends now, you leave it at the doors! People are going to be pissed, and now I will have to fix it!” Cub had turned around in his seat, eyeing the two who just kept looking at each other awkwardly. “Grian, You have to be careful right now. HotGuy is established and people love him. You are new, and nobody knows you at all! It would be so easy for people to hate you so quickly and there would be nothing I could do. Then, people won't even accept your help if they are in trouble because they don't trust you.” He finished his speech while Grian swallowed thickly. He never thought of it like that… People were smiling and laughing with him while he was out there. He supposed he wasn't really looking to see if there were those who weren't.

He turned his head expecting to see an agitated look on HotGuys face, as he put both their reputations on the line. But all he saw was HotGuy purse his lips, holding in a smile. Did he not find this as serious as he did? His chest felt like it was about to explode and here HotGuy was laughing.

“I think you’ll find that Damien deserved it. And it will all blow over if something is wrong in like a week. Media moves on quickly so don't worry so much. Be proud of CuteGuy for how good he did! I know I am Cub! His speech was killer and everyone laughed when he said those things to me! He went out there so scared and came out with poise and confidence. Taking the wind from his sails is not cool. He did fantastic!” He presented some truly inspiring jazz hands trying to persuade Cub, but judging by the vexs face, it wasn't working.

After an awkward silence where Grian just looks between the two, hoping to just leave the car and think about all of this much, much later. And preferably in his nest, alone.

Cub broke first, sighing heavily, turning back forward in his seat.

“You two have approximately two hours before you must report for patrol. Spend it how you wish, I’m going to try my best to fix this.” And with that, Cub leaves the car, shutting the door softly and pushing through the crowd without waiting.

“Welp,” HotGuy said, popping the ‘p’. “That could've gone better!” His smile ever dropped, encouraging Grian to give a small hesitant smile as well. “We have a few hours, so let's grab brunch and talk some shop. I just know the cafeteria is empty right now.” He bounced out of his seat and out the door leaving Grian alone with the poor driver. The door on his side opened, revealing HotGuy offering his hand like before. Not wanting to be in this car any longer, he takes his hand and steps out and into the crowd screaming his name and taking even more pictures. He smiles like last time and hopes that they can't tell it doesn't reach his eyes.

Luckily, HotGuy keeps hold of his hand guiding him through the crowd with almost no issue. As soon as they step through the door, the voice level drops. The doors remain open but nobody follows them in, and they both breathe out a sigh. Grian feels his hands still shaking and the pit in his chest still vibrating with the anxiety he feels. Grian turns to HotGuy, opening his mouth to ask about what the hell just happened, but before he could get a word out he sees HotGuy shake his head; still looking at him with a pasted smile. He shuts his mouth, confused.

HotGuy pulls them both to the elevator quietly, waiting for the doors to open. HotGuy is bouncing on his heels as he waits, but Grian still feels a bit like shit. He has no idea how HotGuy is so calm right now. Cub was really mad at them, well more so just him he supposed, but that honestly just made it worse.

Finally, the doors open and they walk in. As soon as the door closes, Grian watches as HotGuys shoulders drop. He let out a long sigh as his smile finally drops, shaking out his hands at his sides as if relieving built up energy. Grian feels the same in that regard but also what the fuck. Again with the whiplash! Watching Cub turn into PR manager and now watching HotGuy become Scar. He doesn't think he will ever get used to, nor have such a dramatic mask to remove at the end of the day. He hopes so at least.

“Overall, that went really well I’d say!” Scar says, leaning against the wall holding his hand to his mouth to yawn. Which in turn makes Grian yawn against his will. Scar just laughs at him as a little annoyed chirp escapes. But the smile fades when Grian slaps a hand over his mouth at the sound. He resolutely closes his mouth, letting no more bird calls to escape. That's one of things Cub was mad at right? The wings and stuff?

Scar looked at him confused, tilting his head to the side as if trying to understand why the sudden back off of the natural Avian calls. Grian has also been oddly quiet since they've gotten in the elevator, maybe Scar was finally catching on.

“Are you okay?” Scar frowns, tilting his head to the side.

Grian just shakes his head, dropping his arms and pulling his wings in tighter. Scar frown deepens.

“You did so amazing today. Seriously. You surprised me when you actually started talking to people and signing things. I didn't start doing that for so long without Watcher and Red helping me. You should be celebrating, not worrying about Cub.” He bumps their shoulders together flashing a kind smile.

It calms Grians racing heart and lessens the weight of the ball in his chest. He did think he was doing really well today…And honestly if there was an issue with the way he acted then that's a them problem, because he is who he is! He breathes out a long sigh, then takes a deep breath in. Scars right! He's a badass and he can deal with Cub tomorrow!

“Thanks.” Is all Grian says, leaning his head on Scars shoulder as they wait the rest of the ride to the cafe. Cub scared the shit out of him earlier, but hopefully the rest of the day will be better.

Finally they made it to the cafe, which was in fact completely empty. They both heard each other's stomachs growl at the scent of food, causing them both to break the residual anxious tension with an amused laughs. Grian left the elevator first, after grabbing a tray making a beeline to the Avian safe food and piling on the breakfast food still out. Nobody said being a Hero would make him so hungry.

After grabbing some water and two cups of tea, he made his way to one of the corner tables. It was in the furthest corner from everything so it should give them a little bit of privacy. Even with no one there, he assumed people would be trickling in soon once they got back from the debut as well. He sets down his tray, taking a seat just as Scar pops up again as well. He takes the seat opposite Grian, digging into his food as soon as his butt hits the seat. It makes Grian laugh a bit before following his lead and eating as well.

“So,” Grian starts as they push their trays away. He grabs the two teas he had gotten, handing one to Scar who gives him a grateful smile and taking a sip. “I guess what Cub said just kinda got to me” Sure he wasn't as anxious as he was, but it will be hard to let go now that it's a worm in his ear.

“Don’t worry about him, really.” Scar sets his cup down with a small ‘clink.’ “I’ve known him for years and he's dealt with much worse when it comes to PR related blunders. He’s just upset that he already has to fix something. But I don’t think he’ll have to fix anything! You did so well and everyone will love you!” Scar praises, but Grian just gives a small grimace.

“Well clearly I didn’t do that well if Cub has to fix stuff.” He traces his finger around his cup of tea, watching it go round and round. Scar reaches out and grabs his hand, making him look up at Scars face, which has a comforting smile.

“I know this morning was a lot, but don’t let that downer set up your own pity party. People will love you, I just know it! I mean, they can never love you as much as me but maybe you can get close.” Grian scoffs a laugh, pulling his hand back to playfully slap Scar, who takes it in stride and just laughs along.

Grian chooses to trust Scars judgment on this one. The people didn't seem to hate him while he was out there. If anything he felt more in his element, so maybe Cub is just a quick to annoy kind of guy. Judging by how easy going Scar is, he seems like the kind of guy to constantly get on Cubs nerves so if Scar isn't worried, then Grian won't be either.

So, with a smile, Grian and Scar go on a tangent to each other talking about the different reporters and fans they met. It was such a wild experience for Grian, but insanely cool! Grian asks some questions about Aimee, and finds out they are one of the reporters that HotGuy talks to the most as they are just the nicest. He also finds out that Damien has always been an issue. Always asking the worst questions under the guise of getting the ‘juicy details’ when in reality he just treats everyone, including his own fans, awfully.

By the time they run out of people to talk about, Grian catches the time on Scars comm. Unfortunately, they should be hitting the road soon to go on patrol. So, even though Grian really likes the conversation they've been having, he knows he has a few questions he should probably ask before getting out on the streets.

“I have a few questions about, uhh, patrolling.” Grian starts, feeling a bit awkward.

“Ah yes! We should head out for that soon.” Scar checks his comm for the time as well, then sighs. “We still have some time, so ask away!”

“Should I have gotten, like, a map or something of the route?” Grian crossed his arms, leaning his back against the seat.

“You were probably given one with some of the other papers, but I’ve got the whole route in my brain. It's not huge so we will just go back and forth on that path until we get off at 10pm.” He folds his arms over the table, holding onto his cup of tea.

“10! We’ve been up since like 5am!” Scar laughs at his exclamation.

“Yes well, usually I don't get up until 11 to patrol until midnight or later. Today is a special occasion.” He waves his hand, taking a sip from his cup.

Ugh. So he fixed his sleep schedule for no reason as he was just going to go back to sleeping in the day and patrolling at night. Fantastic.

“Don’t worry! Time flies when you're having fun with HotGuy!” He points at himself with a blinding smile.

“I sure hope so.” Grian smirks.

“Hey!” As he pouts, Grian watches as he puts his hand back onto the table, catching sight of his respawn bracelet. The very same one strapped to his wrist as well.

“What about these?” Grian ignores Scars pouting in favor of holding up his wrist with the bracelet. Scar pushes his arm in the center of the table showing off his slightly beaten up, respawn band to Grian. He leans closer as Scar points to certain parts.

“This is a respawn bracelet, and its name is kind of a lie. Its experiential redstone that just recently has been given to every Hero and partner blah blah blah. It is basically an emergency contact. It monitors your heart rate and if it gets too low, then it will send your coords to the Association to send you help. In addition, it has a bit of adrenaline in it so if you are in life or death, it'll give you a little boost until help comes.” He flips his wrist to show off the clasp on the other side. “It can't be taken off without sending a warning to the Association.” He flips his hand back over, gesturing for Grian to give him his hand, which he places gently in his hand. Scar then points to the black square on the top of his wrist. On the side there were three dark buttons he never noticed.

“This one,” Scar points to the most left button, “Is the one we use the most. When we capture a bad guy, we press this and a Hero Association sanctioned officer will show up and take them away. This one,” He moves to the next, Grian is very intently focused on what these do. “Is a distress call. It doesn't mean help will show, but it's nice to think so.” Scar says somewhat bitterly, must be a story there. He points to the last button. “And this is like a recording device. If you go somewhere and have to get some evidence, press this and talk into it and it'll be saved for up to a week, after that it'll be deleted.” He draws back, leaving Grian to look at his band.

Interesting. So they are just fitting every Hero with an experimental bracelet that may or may not help them stay alive. Better than nothing he supposed. He dropped his hand looking at Scar, who was busy looking at his comm with a slight frown.

“We’ve gotta get going unfortunately, we can continue talking as we walk to the patrol route.” Scar shuffled out of his seat, grabbing both Grians and his tray, tossing them in the trash.

Grian chugged the rest of his water, and after throwing the cup away he and Scar made their way back down to the lobby. Grian was worried about Scar becoming HotGuy again, but all he did was plaster a smile on his face as he left the elevator. Again, they end up in the lobby as Scar leads them to the front doors.

“Wait, we just walk out the front door?” Grians asks confused. He wasn't sure where he was expecting to go but this feels a little lackluster. Scar must know what he means cause he laughs at his confusion.

“Where else would we leave from? It's a short walk so we don't use cars, and not all of us can fly.” Scar laughs as Grian sticks his tongue out at him. Finally they both walk out the uncool feeling doors to start their shift on patrol.

Blinking the sun out of his eyes, he was expecting to be bombarded with people again. And while there were still some people milling around the streets and workers picking up the barricade, everyone just seemed to ignore them. Looking there way, then quickly looking away once they realized who they were.

What happened in the two hours they were gone to suddenly have no attention on them? He decided to just follow Scar, walking down the street onto the sidewalk further and further away from the Hero Tower. They continued to pass person after person, some of whom Grian recognized because they were still in cosplay, but each and every of them just looked away as they walked.

Suddenly Scar took an abrupt turn into an alleyway. It looked well kept, which made sense for the area they were in. The Hero Tower being central to Hermit Empire and everywhere around there being the richer part of the city. Tall apartment towers, way too expensive for Grian to have ever considered. Even the people walking around were dressed expensively in suits and dresses, walking while talking on the phone about things Grian would never be able to get his head around.

“This is the start of my route. We will go in and out of the alleyways and down the streets. It's about a ten mile radius and I usually can get around twice before midnight, but we don't have until then so we just do what we can.” Scar speaks as he walks, Grian following getting more confused as they walk.

“And,” He speaks up, Scar spins around and continues to walk backwards, somehow expertly avoiding running into people as he guides them from alley to alley. “What's with the people ignoring us?” It was making him feel pretty uncomfortable, all the people ignoring them as much as possible, when literally two hours ago he was getting yelled at.

“Well, ohhh that's a good bakery,” He points to a small looking bakery that smells fantastic, getting distracted. After they pass it he looks back to Grian who just raises an eyebrow with a smile. “Anyways,” He continues as if nothing happened, “where was I? Oh! It's illegal for people to stop us during our patrols. They could get hella fined for it. So if someone sees a Hero in full uniform walking around the city, they typically leave them alone.” They turned into another alley way, a few critters scuttled away under the dumpster.

“What if someone needs help?” Grian asked with a frown, shocked. What are they, service dogs? Look but don't touch?

“Well of course they can ask for help!” He seems appalled at the question. “And to be honest I don't mind taking a few pictures and doing a few autographs if the night is slow. People are just nervous of getting in our way so they make sure to leave us be, if we are completely dressed up.” He guessed that made sense. There was no way they could do their job well if people could just walk up to them whenever they wanted to. It makes him feel a little weird that people would get fined money if they just say hello to them.

They continued walking for a few hours, not doing much. They broke up a little fight between some teenagers, but otherwise they just kept walking. And walking. And walking.

The thing that Grian was starting to notice though was how the look of everything never really changed. They stayed in all the good areas, the rich neighborhoods and high dining places. Is this it? They just make sure that the rich people of the city are safe and never go to the more poorer areas? That makes no sense.

“Are we staying in the rich area all night?” He voices. They had just passed a restaurant and Grian thinks if he ate there the bill would cost more than his whole old apartment building.

“Yup! I have this radius that I stick to. Sometimes it fluctuates and I will go somewhere else for a while but typically I am always in this area. Being the number one Hero means I handle the number one issues. I don't control where I go.” He shrugs, but Grian crosses his arms with a sneer.

“So the number one Hero is used to protect rich people's pockets from getting mugged?” They really sent their number one Hero to the rich city instead of the places that really needed his help. Where he was from only a few weeks ago could have really used the Hero's patrol but here he was guarding rich people's apartment buildings.

“While I know where you are coming from,” Scar starts, slowing down a bit to walk next to Grian. His voice was low and gentle, not getting mad at Grian for asking a loaded question. Continuing to speak with his hands, he guides them back onto a street, walking past expensive restaurants and a few banks as well. “And while my nights are dull when it comes to petty crime usually, this area is a villain hotspot. Just down the road from here is the Big Eye Bank. And I need to be in this area if some villain with snow powers tries to break into an impenetrable vault.” Scar laughs sarcastically, but Grian feels his face drain of blood.

“What did you just say?” He breathes shaky, clenching and unclenching his numb feeling hands. Scar seems none the wiser, speaking with a smile while taking them down yet another alley.

“Oh it’s just a joke from one of the first villain fights I went on with Boatem. A mid villain named Snow Major tried to rob Big Eye, but once he figured he couldn't do it, he just started wrecking shop. There was so much damage, but luckily only a few people got hurt.”

“Moon and Mighty…” Grian paused for a second, trying to will his heartbeat to go down. No. It was just a dream. There's no way it actually happened. Scar stopped with him, turning his head to the side with a confused look.

“Yeah…MoonLight and I-Mighty got hurt and had to step out of the fight while I helped citizens. Watcher and RedStone were the ones to actually capture Snow. How did you know that?” Scar asked. It has to be some weird coincidence. A really, really, weird coincidence.

“I umm,” finally finding his voice, “found that story in the archives. Read something about them getting hurt…” Grian lied, his wings twitched as he did, drawing Scars attention to them. He pulled them back in but not before Scar pursed his lips with a frown.

“Huh…” Scar said skeptically. He opened his mouth, probably to ask questions that Grian did not have the answers for, but was interrupted by a little meow by their feet.

Immediately Scars face changed, completely forgetting about everything they were talking about.

“Jellie!” He shouted, getting on his knees to pick up and pet the cat more happily then Grian had seen him do anything. Leaning against the wall Grian took this as an opportunity to catch his breath and calm his beating heart. It was just a dream. It had to be.

Looking back at Scar and the cat, he realized he recognized it from somewhere. Oh!

“I’ve met this cat before.” He voiced, crouching next to Scar and reaching his hand out to let the cat sniff him, hoping that he was remembered. It seems it was his lucky day, as the cat abandoned Scar and went to Grian instead. It was the most offended Grian thinks he'd ever seen Scar, making him laugh and pick up the cat.

“I met this cat right before my audition actually! And it looks like they love me more than you!” He bragged, hugging the cat round the middle, lifting its paw and shaking it at Scar.

“I’ll have you know she loves me so much! I raised her and fed her so she just liked you cause you are new!” He fought, crossing his arms like a grumpy child. It calmed Grians heart being like this, laughing at Scars expense.

“I’m sure. Why is she out here if you love her so much?” Grian counters, putting the cat back on the ground. She walks between his crouched legs before going back to Scar, who looked ecstatic.

“We aren't allowed pets in the Hero Tower. And I think she likes being able to go where she likes. But I do bring her in when the weather is bad and during the winter. It's hard to keep her a secret but I can't just leave her be. I found her as a sick kitten on one of the first patrols I had to do alone. After I nursed her back to health, she's joined me on patrols ever since.” He plays with Jellie as he talks, not even paying attention to anything else.

Grian hums, standing back up to lean on the wall. He just watches as Scar plays for a few more minutes with a small smile on his face. Finally when he stands back up they continue on their patrol. But from then on Jellie walks with them, only sometimes will she chase after mice and other rodents before coming straight back.

Scar explained a few buildings and fights he had around them years previous as they walked for the next few hours. It was very boring, but being with Scar and Jellie helped a bit. He couldn't imagine being Scar a few weeks ago having to do this alone. Usually when he went on patrol in his old area he had plenty to do all night. Between muggings, fights, confused old people, he had a lot to do every night. And even on slower nights, he could always fly around and practice his shots in the trash yard.

But tonight they had literally done nothing. They only have around an hour left on their shift or wherever it was called, and they had done nothing.

Grian sighed, kicking a rock down the road. The sun had gone down a while ago and both Grian and Scar were very obviously tired. Quieting down a while and now just walking up and down the streets, following Scars lead.

“We are getting to the end of my route now. I usually turn around up here.” They continued to walk down a street as Scar pointed to an alley a bit away. “Honestly from there we can go straight home, it'll be our time by the time we get back to the Tower. Tomorrow morning Cub will have us for an actual debriefing of the debut earlier today.”

Now that Grian was looking around, the area was getting a little more less taken care of further they walked away from the Hero Tower. Typical, but it sucks that they turn around right as the city gets a little worse for wear.

Nodding quietly, they continued down the path and into the alleyway. It was way less maintained then the other roads and alleyways they had already been down. He rubbed his hand under his eye hoping it wouldn't mess up his makeup too bad. They had been up for a very long time and he was very tired.

Scar picked up Jellie and walked closely next to Grian, shoulder to shoulder. They sleepily smiled at each other and Jellie, walking out of the alley and back toward the Tower.

All of the sudden, Grians ear feathers flicked at a sound behind them. It made him pause his steps next to the Scar, stopping him as well. It had been all but silent since the sun had gone down, everyone going home and sleeping, like he wished he was.

But the loud bang and a cut off scream that came from the alley right outside of where they turned around. He woke up right quick. He turns to look at Scar, with wide eyes, but the Hero was just looking at him weird.

“Did you hear that?” Grian asks, spinning around and listening harder, his feathers spreading out a bit.

“No? What was it?” Scar put Jellie down, pulling his bow over his head and gripping it tightly.

“I heard a scream I think…” Grian also pulls on his bow, nodding to Scar and leading him down to where he heard something. “Down this way.”

Jellie had disappeared somewhere, which was probably for the best. They quietly came up to the alleyway, and leaned around the corner to see what was going on. Unfortunately, Grian heard right.

It was a dead end alley surrounded by brick walls. Clearly this was out of HotGuys radius because it didn't look very well cleaned up. They leaned around a dumpster seeing the scene before them. Against the brick wall at the end of the alley was a tall person in heels and a skirt, cowering from a large man shouting at them. The man had a knife against the person's throat as they felt around the person's body for their pockets.

“Throw your shit on the ground! All of it!” They slurred, CuteGuy could see he was wobbling where he stood, probably drunk. He sneered, looking around the alley to see how safe it would be to shoot in the area. By glancing around he noticed that around 30 feet up there was a rusted balcony hanging over them on the right building.

Formulating a plan, his eyes shot back when he heard the poor person whimpering as the man stumbled into them, possibly cutting them a little bit.

HotGuy, hearing it as well, took a step past the dumpster, about to rush the man mugging the random citizen. But CuteGuys hand shot out, holding back with a shake of his head. He brought a hand to his lips, and pointed to the sky with a smile.

“Trust me.” He mouthed at HotGuy. HotGuy nodded back, willing to trust. CuteGuy took a step back and silently threw himself into the air. He turned and glided to the balcony above, landing quietly on the railing, pulling an arrow from his quiver and taking aim. He turned to look at HotGuy, who had a smile on his face. He watched as HotGuy kept his bow in his hand, walking into the alley with a nonchalant junt.

“Well good evening fellas! How's it going?” He asks, flashing a blinding smile. The man immediately turns away from the person to HotGuy, brandishing his knife in his direction. HotGuy kept the smile and raised his hands in a placating manner. “There's no need for that my friend!”

“You don't belong here, Hero bitch.” The man slurred, CuteGuy rolled his eyes. The man continued to wave the knife around, trying to be as intimidating as possible. Rolling his eyes, CuteGuy started looking around further. He ended up catching the eyes of the person currently being mugged. They looked terrified, but CuteGuy just sent them a comforting smile and moved his hand to show them to be quiet.

“I think you’ll find I can go where I like. Listen, we both know how this is going to go. So just come quietly and we can all forget this even happened, though I don't think you'll remember it anyways…” HotGuy lowered his arms, taking a step closer to the mugger.

“Stay the fuck back! I’ll kill you both!” The man then brandished the knife back to the person against the wall, they scuttered back further trying to keep themselves away from him.

“Hmm only a knife and that much audacity. What power do you have?” HotGuy asked, CuteGuy saw how he inched his hand to his thigh quiver. Fingers grasping an arrow without the man even noticing.

“None of you’re fucking business!” Honestly it was getting embarrassing at this point. The man could barely stand straight yet he was so confident he would get out of this somehow.

Before CuteGuy could even blink, an arrow was flying at the man. For a second, CuteGuy worried his hand slipped and the arrow was his. He was shocked to find HotGuy stanced to fire, yet a arrow missing from the bow. Following its line of fire, he is further surprised to find it hovering mid air with a red pink hue around it. It was frozen a foot away from between the man's wide eyes.

“Ah low level telekinesis.” HotGuy stated unconcerned. He lowered his bow, continuing to step closer. “Makes sense you'd need a knife, can't fight with a power like that.”

“Low level! I-”

“You know the best way to get someone to reveal their power is to put them in immediate danger? If their power can, it’ll save them.” HotGuy interrupted the guy, stopping ten feet away and leveling his bow at the man once again.

“I’ll fucking show you low level!” The man threw his knife at HotGuy, making him have to dodge out of the way or risk getting hit. And while they were both distracted the man reached into his pocket and pulled out a flask. He took a large swig of it before CuteGuy remembered himself and let his arrow fly, striking the flask through the center and knocking it out of his hand. It struck the ground, a milky white liquid spilling out and pooling on the ground. Ew he's never seen alcohol that looked like that.

The man immediately looked to the balcony seeing CuteGuy, who met his eyes with a smile and a wave.

“I saw you on TV today. Didn't know they let the bubblegum bitch out yet!” He gritted his teeth then suddenly thrust his hand up, glowing red. Before CuteGuy could even have a witty response, the man turned around with their back to HotGuy and thrust their hand towards the unfortunate victim's throat. They also started to glow as their feet lifted off the ground by their neck. Their hands raised clawing at their throat with choked wheezes slipping past their lips.

A few things happened at once. CuteGuy felt his eyes widen realizing what was happening, so he flew down to the street below, placing himself between the man, and the person in the skirt, pushing them back. Their hand continued to glow, so CuteGuy took it and twisted it around trying to pin it behind their back. As he spun around the man he felt the air millimeters away from his ear feathers grow suddenly cold followed by the tell-tale whistle of a close arrow. Before CuteGuy could process what he heard there was an arrow in the man's shoulder and the red aura was gone.

He heard the person fall onto the ground, their knees buckled as they held their throat coughing and wheezing on concrete. He kicked out the knee of the still blubbering man, taking him to the ground and laying him on his front. He was still trying to fight, though very uncoordinated. So CuteGuy lifted his bow and fired three consecutive arrows around the man, pinning him by his clothes to the concrete ground.

He then spun on his heel and he fell to his knees to help the person.

“You dumb bitch I’ll kill you! You and your little pink bitch!” Somehow the idiot was still struggling to get free, even with an arrow in his shoulder. CuteGuy looked over his shoulder to see HotGuy with a pissed off look. He was walking to the man, so CuteGuy decided to let him handle it, even if he was a little hesitant.

“Hey what's your name?” He asked, helping them sit up.

“Al-Alister.“ They coughed into their hand, still holding onto their throat. Their deep voice cracked on the first syllable as they spoke. CuteGuy grimaced, that is definitely going to bruise.

“Hello Alister. Sorry that this happened tonight. Other than the obvious, are you hurt anywhere else?” CuteGuy looked them over, and didn't see anything outside, but being hurt on the inside wasn't something that he could fix.

“No, no. J-just sh-aken.” They croaked, planting their hands on the ground, and with CuteGuys help, they stood on their feet. CuteGuy grabbed their purse, placing the spilled items back inside before handing it back.

“That's good. Can I help you get home safe tonight?” CuteGuy eyed the weird flask. The transparent white substance had almost evaporated, but it was still dripping every once in a while from the opening. He turned his nose up, whatever it was, it made people act like dumbasses.

“I already pressed the respawn band. Go ahead and get them home and then we can head out.” HotGuy said. CuteGuy looked over his shoulder to see that HotGuy had the man on the ground, surprisingly silent. He had his hand tied behind his back, laying down on his face with the arrow still in his shoulder.

“I umm…” The person spoke, gaining CuteGuys attention. “I live up there.” Their voice was sounding better, but still a little strained. CuteGuy could already see the bruising starting. The person would point up to the balcony that he had previously used as his perch.

“Oh man you were almost home huh…” CuteGuy said with a sad coo. It made the person smile, so it was worth it. “Here let me just…Can I carry you?”

He watched as Alisters cheeks turned a bit red, they looked down at CuteGuy a bit skeptical.

“Okay well now it's a challenge.” He joked, placing his hands on his hips sassily. Alister tossed their head back with a laugh before nodding in consent at CuteGuy.

Picking them up bridal style, CuteGuy quickly flew up to the balcony. He softly placed them on their feet before taking a step onto the railing. They looked surprised, but CuteGuy just smiled back.

“Hope you have a better night! And ice your neck for those bruises, may we meet again in better circumstances Alister. Goodnight!” And with a final wave, CuteGuy jumps back down to the alleyway below. He hears a quiet goodbye, followed by a sliding door opening and then closing.

Walking back to HotGuy, he sees a black tinted car had pulled up and HotGuy was showing the man inside. He slams the door behind him, knocking on the truck and the vehicle takes off. Suddenly, they were left in the quiet night once more.

HotGuy turns to him with a long, drawn out sigh. He lifts his sunglasses, and rubs at his eyes, before putting them back. Even though his eyes never opened, Grian still averted his gaze just in case. It used to be out of respect, now it's out of fear of what he'd see.

He swallows thickly and they both quietly turn around and start walking home. What was that? HotGuy hit that guy with an arrow, when it could definitely be solved with no blood shed. Not only that, he almost shot him! A few millimeters away and that arrow would be in his wing!

HotGuy sighs again. But this time he opens his mouth and speaks as well.

“Next time maybe try not to jump in front of my shots.” He jokes, unfortunately it was not the correct thing to say to a tired, irritated Grian.

“Me! What do you mean? You shot that guy!” He explodes, waving his hands around as his wings flap.

“He was hurting that person.” He said calmly, “I did what I had to. It wasn't a deadly shot, and that guy is now in jail.” Grian lets out a long breath.

“Do you just shoot anyone ‘because you had too?’” He asks through gritted teeth. Scar sideyes him, hesitating before answering.

“Listen, typically, no. But, the Hero Association would honestly not care if I did use more force.” He waves his hand as he speaks, which does not help the fact the Grian can almost feel his blood boiling.

“Not helping your case..” Grian huffs shaking his head to the side. HotGuy drops his hands into his pockets, looking at the ground with a soft sigh.

“If- If it makes you feel better I know that the best way to get a telekinesis power to release is through pain. Even when you pushed them away, he was still choking the victim and would have continued until they either stopped themself or had power damp cuffs on. Or, they get hurt.” Oh…that made sense. Everytime he fought a telekinetic before as a vigilante he supposed they did get hurt before they stopped. Hmm. He had thought HotGuy just hit him cause it would have made an easy take down, not that he had formulated a plan and he had almost gotten in the way. Maybe they should communicate more… Grians shoulders dropped off their tension. He should've trusted HotGuy.

“Anyways,” HotGuy stares, still watching the ground as they walk. “I’m honestly more concerned at how they went from a low level power to a mid level that quickly. I know they were low level, you can tell from the color of the aura. But they could never have picked someone up as a low level. But after they drank whatever was in that flask, it was like their power doubled. It's weird. I highly doubt normal milk did that.” He shakes his head, turning to look over Grian with a confused look.

“Well, if they were low level, I thought you said Cub was low level?” Grian questions as he knows that Cub and and has held multiple things at once mid air with barely even a thought.

“I lied. It's a joke between me and Cub. He's actually one of the strongest I’ve ever met. But he's just not a fighter, so PR is all he does for the Hero Association.” Scar crosses his arms, tilting his head back to look at the sky. You couldn't see many stars in the city, but it's nice to try. “I just don't understand how he did it.”

“Maybe it was whatever he drank? Like a drug or something?” Grian suggested. He knew many of the drugs that were on the streets. He had taken down a couple big dealers in his day, but he hadn't really heard of a drug that would increase power level. Maybe it was like a steroid?

“Maybe…There might be something in the archive. But, honestly, with our mission tomorrow we probably won't have time to look into it.” Scar drops his arms with a shrug.

The rest of the walk back was silent, both men too tired to hold conversation. At some point, Jellie started walking by their sides, and after a quick pet break, they continued their way back. Honestly Grian almost ditched Scar and flew back, but that would be rude so he stuck it out.

Finally, the Hero Tower came into view and all Grian could think about was taking a long, hot shower and passing out in his nice, soft nest. All just to get ready to do it again tomorrow.

Chapter Text

“Hey Grian!” The sudden voice directly in his ear made Grian almost fall out of his seat. The seat he was currently sitting in and trying to enjoy his breakfast before a very important meeting. The council has not been talking to him nearly as much recently, and he couldn't figure out why. It was frustrating him to no end, but that wasn't Scars fault. So with a measured breath, he turned in his seat and gave the loud man a pleasant smile.

“Hello Scar, how was training today?” The Hero-in-training had been with them for almost a year now but at least once a week he still had routines to do to make sure he was ready to become a full blown Hero among Boatem.

“Great! I only missed a few targets but I wasn't really trying so…” He trailed off giving Grian a mischievous wink. It had been a few days since Scar han revealed his secret power to the Boatem crew. Somehow he had hidden it from the Association, which honestly probably wasn't hard since it was something Grian, nor the rest of them, had ever heard of.

Grian huffed a laugh at his goofiness. He will never understand Scars ability to be silly in almost any situation. The public had a problem with him sometimes because of it, saying he wasn't serious enough. Boatem liked the levity.

“I’m glad. How did you get into my room again?” Grian smiled, turning back to his cereal. He heard Scar laugh, pulling the bar chair out from beside Grian and plopping down into it.

“Well why keep your door unlocked if you don't want company?” While his original plan had been to sit and sulk at the Council's lack of communication, Scar had a point at company being better. There was no point in having the “Scar stop sneaking into our rooms” talk with him again, as evident by Scar being here, in his room, without permission.

“You make a great point!” Grian laughed along, finishing his bowl and pushing it back to deal with later. He jumped off his chair, raising his arms over his head hearing the crack of each of his bones. His wings fluttered out as well, contented chirps spilling from his lips. With a calmed coo, he turned to face Scar, who was looking at him with poorly contained awe.

It made him smile. It wasn't too long ago now that people used to sneer at his wings and tell him to get them out of the way. Working on the Hybrid Acceptance Act was one of the highest points in his career that's for sure, and that was years ago now. He's glad he can be himself with his friends and in public now.

He sends a coo Scars way, pleased at his pink cheeks at being caught staring. Scar is still dressed in his Hero uniform. Loose fitting shorts covered with a long green dress robe thing. The slit up the side would typically show off his boots, but he seems to have taken them off whenever he snuck into Grians room. The very flowy and comfortable looking nature of his outfit makes Grian jealous sometimes. He also got to wear a dress, well, a robe, but it was heavy and thick. Scar also still has his bow around his shoulder, though his quiver was nowhere to be found. Must've forgotten it there.

“I wish I was good at archery.” Grian spoke, shocking them both. He felt his cheeks go as pink as Scars. “I mean…All I have is my wings I can't really…Do anything else…” He trailed off. As the leader of Boatem, he shouldn't be talking about this. Especially to the newest member. But it just slipped out. He had always wanted to try and shoot like Scar, but was too embarrassed to even ask. He doesn't know what brought this out now.

“I can teach you.” Scar spoke before Grian could go too far into his head. “I know I use my power in combo with it a lot, but I’m still good without it. And the Association gave me tons of bows just like this one. I’ll give you one and we can practice at night! It’ll be fun!” He was practically vibrating in his chair with excitement. It was sweet, if a bit naive.

But…It wouldn't hurt to say yes. As long as nobody saw him then there should be no issues with him learning something he shouldn't. Plus it would make Scar a better leader too! Yeah, let's go with that!

“Okay. We can start later tonight.” Grian nods his head with a smile. Scar practically explodes, his smile blinding as he claps happily.

He opens his mouth to tease him about how excited he is when he hears his front door open without a knock.

Spinning around he sees the rest of Boatem walk through the door without a second thought. They all have their own versions of Watchers mask on, as customary when meeting with the council. He narrows his eyes, lifting his wings and puts on an annoyed chitter.

“Does anyone knock around here or is it just me that gets walked in on?” He taps his foot on the ground as they finally look up at him.

“Why have the door unlocked if you don't want company?” One of them countered, immediately sending Scar into a fit of laughter.

“That's what I said! You get it!” Scar got up from his chair to give each of them a hug, which was reciprocated.

“You all are ridiculous.” He said, even if his smile gave away his true feelings.

“To be fair, we are here to pick you up then go to the Council meeting.” Red points out, fixing his tie after Scars enthusiastic hug.

“Meeting?” Scar tilts his head like a puppy, “I didn't know there was a meeting?”

“That's because you weren't invited.” MoonLight laughs as Scar pouts.

“Why not?” He frowns. Grian sighs, getting his mask ready and lightly preening his wings. They've been over this a hundred times, but Scar just doesn't seem to get it.

“You aren't ready yet, Scar. You haven't even been here for a year, you’ll get your time, but for now we will handle the meetings and you can continue to refine your skill.” Grian states. Scar sighs flopping onto Grians couch.

“Yea! You're just a baby!” MoonLight laughs, walking over to pinch his cheeks as he protests greatly.

“It's real boring stuff, mate. You wouldn't like it anyways.” Red smiles.

“Yeah really we are saving you from having to go!” Mighty laughs heartily, as the three of them walk out the door. Grian is the last to leave, taking one last look into his room. Scar has sat up and looks at him as he leaves. He looks…defeated. It makes something twist inside Grian but he can't put his talon on it. Scar isn't ready yet, still immature. It's for the best…

The door clicks as he closes it.

He feels bad. He follows behind the rest of Boatem and they go to the elevator. Have they always treated Scar that way? He didn't…

Grian, once again, shot up in his bed. His hair plastered to his forehead and heart all but beating out of his chest.

Another dream? Another, way to realistic, dream? What was going on…

This one also left a bad taste in his mouth and bad feeling in his chest. They were so dismissive of Scar. Sure he was young but so were they… Why would they do that? There's no way. He refuses to believe it. It was just a dumb dream playing off of the weird coincidence of the last one.

He reached a hand over feeling for his pigeon Moon. Upon his hand gripping her, he brought it to his chest feeling his breathing even slightly.

He doesn't like waking up this way. It made him feel gross and wrong. Like he was in the wrong body or missing something huge. But there was literally nothing wrong so where were these dreams coming from.

Sighing, Grian turned his head to the window. The sun was peeking over the horizon, or at least he assumed as the buildings and skyline were in the way. It was bright enough that he could take an educated guess. His alarm must’ve not gone off for some reason if he was able to see the light of the sun instead of the darkness of right before.

Dropping Moon back onto the sheets, he slides his legs off his bed deciding some music will help him feel better. He knows that he has to meet with Cub soon, so he changes his clothes into something somewhat presentable before stumbling to his coffee table.

He sleepily searched for his favorite record, placing it in the spinner and putting the needle on before crashing onto his couch.

He was right about the music making him feel better, but it didn't stop his brain from thinking. Ugh. Why was this all happening now? What changed? Nothing. Nothing changed yet he feels so weird.

At some point, he finally heard a knock on his door. He already knew who it was, and he also knew his door was unlocked. Maybe he could… test something.

“Come in!” He shouted from the couch, not bothering to get up. He does stretch his hand to the coffee table to turn the switch to the music off, leaving him in comfortable silence. It took a few moments, but he slowly heard the door creak open. He heard some footsteps, and the door close, before the footsteps started coming closer.

They stopped near Grians feet, probably horribly confused at why Grian was face down on his own couch. He turned his face from the cushions to be able to look at Scar. He was correct, the man looked confused, but also amused so that's a win in Grians book.

“My door was unlocked.” He mused, gaining Scars attention to his face. The Hero walked closer, crouching near his head, tilting his head.

“That it was. Too comfortable to get up and let me in, Pesky Bird? Or…Are you sick?” He gives a small smile, slowly reaching out and gauging Grians face, and upon Grian giving no reaction be pushes some of his hair behind his ear. It made his aural feathers tickle, then twitch and react without thought, they smack his hand away. He just laughed and pulled his hand back as Grian rolled his eyes.

“I’m okay, just tired. Why didn't you just come in?” Grian asks, his smile turned fully confused.

“Well… it would be rude to just walk in, Birdy. Are you sure you're okay?” He laughs. Grian narrows his eyes, he's looking around Scar trying to find any body language that would suggest he's catching on. All he saw was a wholly confused Hero who was looking over him as if trying to sense what was wrong.

“Well, why would my door be unlocked if I didn't want company?” He spoke kindly, freezing Scar in place, like a real life buffering. He looked at Grians face with such confusion mixed with a bit of shock before he shook his head, unsticking himself with a nervous laugh.

“Well, I suppose that's a great point!” He brings his arms up to nervously scratch his neck, looking anywhere except for Grian.

Well then…That is odd. Very odd. But it has to be another coincidence. Because if it's not then he has no clue what else it could possibly be. Nor does he want to even think of what else it could mean.

So, he pulled his arms under himself to finally sit up on the couch. He stretches, his wings fluttering behind him but not spreading out any further than necessary. He catches a few feathers out of place, and when he looks over to Scar he sees that has stood up and is looking down at him. He has a sad look across his face as he stares past Grian and at his wings.

A vision of a winged man that he's looking through the eyes of flashes in his head. That Hero preens and chirps whenever he wants… Ugh. Fine. He’ll take care of himself or whatever.

With a huff, he pulls his wing into his lap fixing the bigger feathers out of place. When those few are done, he shakes it out a bit before folding them back behind himself. Unfortunately, that does, in fact, feel much better. An unrestrained chirp falls from his throat and upon gazing up at Scar, it looks like he couldn't be happier.

“I don't want to be late.” Grian stands up, paying Scar no mind. It was embarrassing enough to have someone care for you, he doesn't want to draw more attention to it.

“Of course! I know Cub will have a lot to say!” Scar seems chipper for this time of morning, especially considering yesterday's escapades. Then again, the Scar that Grian keeps dreaming about (that wording makes him cringe. Like he's having weird dreams when in reality the dreams are borderline nightmares) was very upbeat and chipper. Is very? Was very.

The Scar in front of him now always has a resigned look to him that he never paid attention to before. Sure he smiled and laughed and was a general nuisance (even if he now found it endearing) but there was also a serious air to him that he wasn't really seeing in these dreams.

Dreams. They are just dreams. He needs to remember that…That Scar and this Scar are not the same person. His weird conscience just is pulling from Scar's most notable personality traits and that's why that Scar is weird. Cause it's not real and totally just a weird coincidence. One. Big. Coincidence.

“You coming?” At some point while he was lost in thought Scar had walked back to his front door. He's standing there waiting for Grian to move. He has a small frown on his face yet seems conflicted about something. Deciding that won't do, Grian finally stands up and trails over to the door.

“Of course. Let's get this over with.” He playfully groans, trying to relieve the weird tension that he purposely accidentally put over them. Though, in doing so he starts to relive some of the anxiety from yesterday.

“Oh it won't be so bad!” Scar laughs, seemingly grateful for the change of topic as well. “Cub seems scary but he really isn't!” They, again, get into the elevator. Grian knows this place has stairs and he's getting real tired of this damn elevator.

“You literally just told me he has a high level power and currently he's mad at me.” Grian points out as he crosses his arms. He raises an eyebrow at Scar as the man purses his lips.

“Maybe so– But!” He bulls over the first part, pointing at Grian with finger guns, “He's a lover not a fighter!” It makes Grian laugh, breaking through some of the anxiety he was feeling from this meeting.

“Oh HotGuy please protect me from the villain Cub!” Grian plays along, placing the back of his palm against his forehead and falling against the wall as if he's about to faint. “He's terribly mad at me! And I am but a mere powerless hybrid, I’d stand no chance!”

“Fear not citizen! I will protect you from the evil Vex! But– Oh no!” Grian opens an eye glancing at Scar. He has both his hands on his face, making an ‘o’ shape with his mouth and raised eyebrows. “I have forgotten my bow! We might just be doomed!” He gasps.

Grian breaks character to bust out in chirpy laughs. Raising his hand to try and cover his mouth as his wings flutter around him.

“Im- imagine saying that to some- someone oh my gods!” He doubles over wiping his eyes. “They are so scared and think you’ll help them but sike! ‘Sorry I forgot my bow, you're on your own. Cya!’”

“I would never! You are different, I’d just leave you! I would never help someone as low as you, when I am as cool as I am.” Scar huffs, he too is laughing but he crosses his arms anyway pretending to be mad. Now this is more like what they do.

“How dare you–” Grian points over to Scar, his wings raised in faux defense, poised to fake attack the braggart Hero, when the elevator door opens.

They looked into Cubs office, expecting to see him already standing there with items floating in the air like normal. Instead they are greeted with a completely still, silent room. Cubs head was poking up from over the back of the chair, which was facing the windows from behind his desk.

Slowly, Grian pulled his wings down and swallowed thickly. He dropped his arms looking at Scar, seeing he did much the same. Clearing his throat and fixing his glasses. Okay so great he is nervous too.

“Take a seat you two.” Cub says with a leveled voice. Two chairs fly in from the sides of the room, placed themselves in front of the desk next to each other. Scar and Grian look at each other. Grian feels the grimace on his face along with the boiling of anxiety that has found its place in his stomach again. Scar just stretches a fake, yet endearing smile across his face, trying his best to make Grian feel better.

Slowly, both of them make their way to the chairs taking a seat. And maybe Grian pretends not to notice how Scar scoots his chair just a bit closer to his. They both silently watch Cub as he turns his chair dramatically towards them.

Grian feels his heart stop then restart all in one second when he sees the blinding smile stretched across Cubs face. He really starts to get annoyed at these Hero Association boys messing with his feelings because what the hell is going on?

Cub places his entwined hands on the desk, looking between Scar and Grian. It's still quiet, and Grian squirms in place a bit at the feeling. Finally, Cubs eyes land on him, making him sit still and smile nervously back.

“I owe you an apology, er, again.” He says not unkindly. It makes Grian actually freeze, out of all the things that he could have said, why would he need to apologize? Cub sighs but doesn't drop the smile. His eyes start to glow, it's his typical blue, and from down by his feet magazines lift up and set themselves gently on the desk by Cubs hand.

He looks over to Scar again, but he looks just as confused as he feels. Cub places his hand on the stack, pulling the top one off and holding it in front of his own face.

“I misjudged you, Grian. I didn't even give you or the public a chance before I condemned you both. For that, I am sorry.” He flips through the magazine without glancing up. Grian feels wildly taken aback.

“I’m– I’m sorry but…I’m still confused.” Grian muses, playing with his fingers to relieve some pent up anxiety. He wasn't in trouble so at least there's that. No yelling or anything about his wings or makeup so honestly this was already going better than expected. Then again, yelling he knows how to deal with. This is just weird and he doesn't know where to go from here.

Suddenly, the magazine that was in Cubs hand, flew onto the desk in front of Grian. He hesitantly looks down at it and his breath catches in his throat when he sees the cover. He feels Scar lean on his shoulder, looking down with him and he too pauses at the image.

There, on the front cover is a picture of him scowling at the camera. His glasses perfectly reflect the sunlight making them look like they are made of rose quartz instead of just pink glass. The light passing through makes his narrowed eyes shine brightly and his makeup look fierce. He is standing tall and confident. Radiant, even though he was scowling, he had an air of mischievousness around him as he looked directly into the camera.

Right behind him is HotGuy, his face turned into a profile and looking directly in the direction of the sunlight. His arm was taken by CuteGuy, but he had his other hand up waving with a dazzling smile. He looked directly opposite of CuteGuy: happy and almost innocent. But even then, it was like two kinds of opposite. Grian, dressed like the cute one, yet with a scowl while the Hero dressed in dark colors was the nice one.

The headline read, ‘CuteGuy is Actually a BadBoy?’ along with a few smaller lines that Grians eyes scanned with a dazed look. ‘HotGuy and CuteGuys new look!’ ‘How to look like CuteGuy in 5 steps!’ ‘Exclusive interview!’

That picture, he remembers, had to have been taken right outside of the Hero Tower. When he had forgotten to act the part just a shutter too late. And now here that picture was on the front of a magazine praising him already.

He felt his head spinning a bit as Scar took the pages from his hand. But just as that one disappeared, another was placed in his hand.

This picture was the one where he was feeling cheeky, so he pulled on the string of HotGuys bow. They were both laughing and smiling, looking at each other rather than the cameras. Around this photo were a few of the ones that were released a few days ago. Specifically the ones where CuteGuy was looking mischievous. This headline read, ‘A Sly Foxy Hero To Trust!’ in big yellow print.

They…Liked him? They liked him! He felt a wave of relief flood his system. He was waiting to get fired or for a smear campaign or maybe at least for the people to hate him. But everyone seemed to like him! And they liked him alongside HotGuy. He felt a smile slowly stretch across his face looking at the pictures. They were having fun in these pictures, you can just tell.

“Ha!” A laugh jolted him out of his thoughts, making him jump a little. Dropping the magazine slightly to turn to Scar, he sees a similar smile on his face along with a thick stack of magazines and newspapers next to him. He was holding one close to his face pointing at the bottom corner with a wide smile. When he saw Grian watching him he shoved himself forward with the paper shoving it in his face.

“Look!” He laughs, but before Grian could even read it he excitedly pulls it back to read it to Grian himself. “‘CuteGuy and You~ Compatiblity Quiz pg. 15!’” Grian feels his cheeks go pink.

“No way! Give it here!” Grian jumps at Scar; he laughs and holds it out of his reach.

“I don't think so! You’re you! Of course you're compatible but Cub and I have to know!” He starts to open the magazine but Grian scrambles out of his chair trying to wrestle it out of his hands. They are both laughing, but Grian still feels his face continuing to heat up at the implications of thousands of teens reading this magazine, so he’d rather Scar not.

Suddenly, just as Grian was finally gaining the upper hand, the magazine turns a blue hue and it flies from Scars hand. Looking over his shoulder back at the desk, he sees it fly into Cubs. He has a wide smile on his face but it's mixed with contempt. Confused at why, Grian turns back and realizes the position he is in. He had moved from his chair and jumped into Scars lap with one hand pushing Scars face into the chair while he was reaching over his head at Scars now empty hand. Scar is still giggling as he finally pulls his hand down to push Grian off of him.

With a huff at losing, he plops back into his own seat, red cheeked and twitching feathers. He crosses his arms but leans forward to catch a look at the other magazines on the desk. Cub had spread them out while they were fighting and almost every single front cover was a picture of him.

“This is why I’m sorry. Not even HotGuy had this much media approval when he started. The people love you, look.” A few papers came into his view. One of them had a sideways spread of one of the photos from the photoshoot they had done last week. HotGuy was laying on the ground reaching his hand up to a CuteGuy who was standing over him, reaching out a clawed hand to help him up. They both had their bows in their other hands and smirks on their faces. The picture had been an accident. Scar had actually tripped and fallen, after Grian had laughed at him, he offered a helping hand up. “Read the headline of it.” Cub pushed.

Flicking his eyes up to it, Scar beat him to it with a huff.

“‘The Most Trustworthy Hero Yet!’ No way! I am right here!” Scar scoffed, Cub rolled his eyes, passing him another newspaper. Grian leaned over to read it as well. It had a picture of the two of them on the red carpet, the one where CuteGuy was leaning away from HotGuy using his bow string for balance. “‘The Two to Trust! HotGuy and CuteGuys are the People's Heroes.’ Wow. Are there any bad ones?” Scar passed the paper to Grian, who took it with slightly shaky hands.

“Of course you would ask that.” Grian smirked. “Upset I’m doing well?” He asked cheekily, as if he wasn't curious too.

“Well, when HotGuy debuted there were a few bad papers.” Cub pointed out, making Grian put down the magazine he had in preparation for the one he assumed Cub would be giving him. “But I haven't seen any bad papers so far.” That took Grian aback.

“None?”

“None!” Scar and Grian spoke at the same time, making them both pause.

“No papers, so far. Or if there are, I haven't seen them. But online is a different story.” Ah that made sense. Anonymity did that to people; being able to say what they want with no face behind it. “Damien posted his video.” Oh that made even more sense.

“Well of course his cronies would–” Scar starts waving his hand dismissively before he's interrupted.

“I’m not done.” Cub said, his smile somehow got wider. “Because of what you said Grian, his video ended up getting taken down for hate speech and he has lost almost half of his followers on most every account he has. He even deleted his Bitter account. I don't think we will have to worry about him again.” Both Grian and Scars jaws dropped. They looked at eachother totally shocked, blinking.

Scar then turned to Cub, all but slamming his hand on the table playfully and standing up. He pointed at Cub with a poorly hidden smile.

“You are telling me that's all it took? And you told me to behave! He would've been gone so long ago if you let me say what I think!” He shouted. Cub raised his hands in a placating motion though he was laughing as well.

“To be fair, if I let you speak your mind you’d probably be in jail! CuteGuy did a good enough job for the both of you.” He clapped his hands together, gathering all the magazines into a neat pile before floating them to the corner of his desk. Grian watched Scar flop back down in his chair with folded arms, muttering something about ‘I’ll show you jail’ or some other poor come back.

“That being said, when Tycoon debuted as HotGuy there was a fair bit of backlash. As I've told you before Scar, you were coming off of a bad situation. It was to be expected.” Surprisingly, Scar had nothing to say. He looked vaguely uncomfortable in his seat, shuffling slightly with a small grimace.

Grian never really thought about that before. That must have been really hard, to debut as the number one Hero right after the others disappeared. Of course there must have been backlash and of course the conversation topic would make him uncomfortable. On the other hand…Grian was quite curious what his debut magazines looked like. So with a mischievous smile he looked at Scar.

The poor Hero looked at him with a confused ‘hmm.’

“Cub?” Grian stretched without looking away from Scar. “Can I see HotGuys debut magazines?” He laughed as realization flooded Scars face along with a pink tint.

“I thought you'd never ask! It's good to compare the two just to make sure you both are on track!” From the other side of Cub, a smaller stack of magazines spread out on the desk for ease of Grians pursuing.

Grian was having a little trouble picking just one, but when Scar immediately reaches for one, Grian beats him to it. There has to be a reason he doesn't want Grian to see this one. Much like Grian had done earlier, Scar jumps over to him trying to grab it from his hands. But Grian was prepared, he brought his feet up and pushed him by his chest back into his chair as he pulled the paper away to see the front cover.

And to be quite honest, he should've let Scar keep it. Grian shouts, tossing the paper back onto the desk face up pulling his hands away like it burned him.

There on the front page of ‘Goodies Being Baddies’ magazine is a full hip up picture of a younger looking HotGuy completely shirtless, flexing for the camera. Cub is laughing his ass off from across the desk while Scar has his head in his hands, the tips of his ears bright red. The gotcha headline read ‘HotGuys WorkOut Routine and RelationShip Status Inside!’

“They made me take that picture I swear!” Scar hastily explained, he looked over to Grian, who, upon seeing Scar's scarlet face, finally burst out in a cackling, chirpy laugh.

“I–I’m sure you– you were just s-so against it! The smile on your face says differently.” Laughs as he picks the magazine up, pointing at a HotGuy who is in fact smiling very sensually into the camera. Grian starts to leaf through the magazine landing on a page very similar to one he didn't want Scar to see either.

“‘Do You Have What It Takes to Become HotGuys Secret SideKick? Take this quiz and find out!’ Damn…” Grian laughs looking at Scar, “I did it and didn't even take this quiz. Wonder if it would've worked! Let's find out…” Grian looks back down right as if flies from his hand. He lets out an annoyed chitter, which makes Scar actually laugh.

“And that's enough of that. I’ll do the comparison for you, while HotGuy had some mishaps, the public opinion of you both went over very well. I am…proud. Of you both.” Cub says and he rounds up the rest of the papers and puts all of them under his desk. Grian crosses his arms but isn't actually upset, though it would've been funny to see what they would have said.

“Those were from three years ago, Birdy. I’m a changed man!” Scar laughs yet raises a hand to nervously scratch behind his neck.

“Ha! That’s a laugh and a half Mr. I’m-so-cool-and-handsome!” Grian punches his shoulder with a smile. Scar seems to release some tension he had since those magazines came out.

“Well just cause I’m changed doesn't mean those things aren't true.” He smirks, as Grian barks an exacerbated laugh.

“Now, again,” Cub starts, getting both of their attention. He had a small smile on his face while he folded his hands in front of him on the desk. “Grian, I acted so poorly to you and I can promise it will never happen again. I was thinking too much about being Public Relations and not enough about what you might be feeling or going through or if you were even ready to be in front of that many people. I am sorry.” He sounded so sincere Grian felt uncomfortable. He had felt most of his anger was deserved, and sure Scar had remedied most of it last night, he wasn't expecting an apology.

“It's okay. I forgive you.” He said, also sincere. “Nothing to forgive!” He laughed nervously, just hoping to move on. It made Scar look at him weird and Cub pause. He felt his wings flutter at being stared at, but Cub just shrugged before pulling out a few papers from his desk. Grian drew out a breath, still feeling Scars gaze on him. But he ignored it. It sucks that Scar can read his wings so well. He can never get away with anything ever again, luckily Scar didn't say anything.

“Well, pivoting off of that, you two are due for a mission.” The room felt more serious now, replacing the excitement. Grian pushed his wings further behind himself to sit further back in the seat. “You are relieved of patrol duties and after you leave this room you are expected to start the mission.” It sounded like he was reading off a script, and if by the look of Scars face meant anything, he might actually be. “I was given these few papers from the Council to give to you guys. I haven't read them and don't plan to. Come to me if you guys have any questions for the Council or any updates, otherwise you two are on your own. Good Luck and remember–”

“Eyes in the sky keep everyone safe blah blah blah, can we go now?” Scar finished for Cub who gave an exacerbated huff. He handed Scar both papers with a roll of his eyes. He folded them and slipped them into his front pocket.

“You know what I have to say to that.” Cub muttered, pulling out a clipboard and writing something on it. He supposed that was their cue to leave, as Scar stood up and stretched his hand over his head.

“I’m aware. As aware as you are of a low level.” Scar all but hightailed it out of the room as Cub stood up so fast. His eyes were glowing dangerous blue as Grian froze in his place standing from his chair. Cub flicked his eyes to Grian and as he saw his fearful face Cub smiled, raising a hand to his lips. He reached down and opened a drawer pulling out a round palm sized object. And before Grian could even question it, he reared back and threw it through his door at a truly alarming speed.

“Yeouch!” Grian heard a Scar shout from just outside the doors. The ridiculous sound made Grian unfreeze with a cackle. He brought a hand up to cover his smile as he turned back to Cub, who had already sat back down and started writing as if nothing happened. It just made Grian laugh again, and if he was paying attention, he might've seen Cub smile back.

But as it is, Grian took his leave and met Scar just outside the doors waiting for the elevator. He was rubbing his head with a pout on his face. The ball that Cub had thrown was off to the side against the opposite wall. Giggling still, Grian picked it up and decided that it was his now. Just in case he needed it for similar reasons.

The elevator doors opened and they both walked in side by side. Slowly Grians giggling subsided with a deep breath and sigh. Scar was still rubbing his head with a slight scowl, but he asked for it so Grian didn’t feel too bad about it.

“I thought you said it was a mutual joke. That didn't look very mutual.”Grian pokes, tossing the ball from hand to hand. It was quite rubbery, so possibly a bouncy ball?

“No he loves it I swear!” Scar counters, though Grian, for some reason, really doesn't believe him. It makes him laugh, pocketing the ball to put away later. He feels one of his wings give a gentle flick, like a feather is out of place. So he brings it around to his front and cards his hands through trying to find it. And once he does, he fixes it with a contented coo before flexing back behind him.

“I’m glad you are doing better.” Scar speaks gently, still making him jump somehow.

“What do you mean?” Grian asks as the elevator doors open. They are back on their living level, probably to get ready for wherever they are going on mission tonight.

“Well you seemed a bit out of it this morning. Are you okay?” Scar asks, seemingly genuinely concerned.

“Just…Had a bad dream last night is all.” Grian smooths off.

“Want to talk about it?”

And that's the question isn't it. He doesn't. Not really. But also the only way to get to the bottom of it is to talk about it. Unfortunately. Ugh. Open and honest communication. Gross. Maybe he can just like…get vague information from Scar without actually revealing anything that might make him sound weird. And that way they both learn more about each other's missing family so they can actually start to help each other. Flawless plan.

“Sure…” Grian draws out, regretting it as it comes out of his mouth. Scar upturns a dazzling smile as they finally get to Grians door.

“How about we make some brunch at your place and we can talk some more. We have to talk about the mission more anyways, might as well kill three birds with one stone!” He says way too happily. Grian just smiles and opens the door letting them both in.

Scar immediately starts to raid his fridge, which is fine by him. He may have a fully stocked kitchen but that doesn't mean he knows how to use it. But Scar seems to know what he's doing so he’ll just leave him be. Grian takes a seat at the bar so he is still facing Scar, and just watches him kicking his feet back and forth.

“Do you like fried rice?” He asks, pulling a pan from a drawer he didn't even realize had pans in it.

“Sure.” He answers, leaning down and placing his chin in his hands and elbows on the counter. “As long as there's no onions I’m good.”

“Of course of course. I’d never!” He laughs finding a bag of frozen vegetables. “Vegetable fried rice it is!” He starts heating some oil on the stove and again, Grians glad it's not him. There would be a fire by now. Probably.

Grabbing some rice and a pot of water, Scar turned his back to Grian and continued putting vegetables into the pan and…doing something. With his back turned Grian just continued to watch. It was quiet, but nice to hear the sounds of someone cooking. Domestic in a way that Grian hasn't felt in over three years.

Mumbo used to love to cook. Every night, as long as he wasn't too caught up with learning new D.U.S.T. techniques, he would make some new recipe that he had found from a magazine or something.

“So, what was your dream about?” Scar asks, not turning around and drawing Grian from his thoughts. Oh yeah. He said he would talk about his dream.

“I’m…not quite sure. It just left me feeling weird. Like you know that feeling when you are forgetting something, but don't know what?” Scar hums from his place in front of the stove. “It was like that. I think…I think you were there?” He didn't want to give too much away, but that seemed like a good place to start.

Then again maybe not since Scar paused what he was doing, still not looking at Grian. After a silent moment, he restarts himself, going back to stirring the vegetables in the pan, adding some spices from the cabinet above.

“Oh? What did I say?” He asks calmly. Oddly calm for how Scar typically acts.

“Nothing much, just being annoying like usual.” Trying to alleviate whatever weird air he's made. It works, as Scar spins around and points his spatula at him menacingly.

“I am not!” He protests, annoyingly. It makes Grian laugh, putting his hands up with a smirk.

“Of course not, ‘course not.”

“You bet! I’m the best to be around!” He spins back around and goes to test the rice. Grian goes back to watching him quietly, debating on how to secretly ask Scar questions without being too obvious.

“You know…my sister, she's a terrible cook. Worse than me really. If she could set fire to water, it’d happen.” Scar snorts, cracking some eggs into the pan. “I’m glad I had my other friend who loved to cook or else we probably would’ve starved in my apartment.”

“Red was like that.” Bingo! “Loved to cook, but was usually too busy. He was always wrapped in some redstone business that none of us understood so we just left him to it. I also liked to cook so I picked up the slack when I could. We do have a cafe too so it was never dier!” He laughs, adding the rice.

“Did they…ever treat you differently? Cause you were newer, I mean.” The question gives Scar pause. Like he wasn't expecting the question to be so serious and it makes Grian cringe. Why was he even asking this anyway? Cause he was upset that weirdo dream him and Boatem were kinda mean to a Scar that doesn't exist?

“Sometimes.” That's the worst answer Scar could have given! “Especially in the beginning. But they always treated me kindly and welcomed me into the group. There were just times they forgot I was a Hero too and would still treat me like I was a baby or something.” Scar chuckles a spite filled laugh. “If only they could see me now.” He grabs some bowls and proportions out the fried rice.

Grian felt weirdly guilty making him talk about these people he misses so much. But if they want to find them then he has to know more about them, right? Right.

“Here you are!” With a small flourish he slides a bowl piled with steaming fried rice. It smells really good. It has been a long time since he had a true home cooked meal, even longer since someone else made it for him.

Scar comes around the bar and pulls out the chair to take a seat next to him. Together they start eating and Grian is pleasantly surprised.

“This is really good.” He says muffled as he shoves his spoon into his mouth. Scar tilts his head back with a bark of laughter.

“Why thank you!” He smiles, going back to his own bowl.

The two finish off their bowls (Grian quicker than Scar but who's really counting) and put their dishes in the sink for Grian to clean later. Together, they move to his couch, sitting a little closer than strictly necessary to each other. It made his bird brain happy! Sue him!

“You know,” Scar starts, leaning back until his head touches the back of the couch and he's facing the vaulted ceiling. Grian follows his lead, leaning back, but he's not tall enough to place his head over the top like Scar. “I’ve told you a lot about my tragically missing family, but I know nothing about yours.” Scar huffs a small laugh and the statement makes Grians heartbeat pick up a little. It's weird having Scar be so casual about all of this, especially considering it's literally the only reason Grian is sitting here right now.

This whole Hero business was just a ploy to get information, and now he's kinda stuck here. And while it isn't without no complaints, he will admit that so far it's not so bad here. He’ll be sad to leave when he gets everyone back…He reluctantly realizes he’ll have to leave Scar behind so he isn't like…thrown in some sort of AWOL Hero jail. But he will just have to cross that bridge when he gets there. Not if, when.

The implied question does catch him a bit off guard though. Scar wants to know about his little vigilante family, and knowing Scars thoughts about vigilantes he won't be too pleased. Then again, Grian’s here and they are friends now. So it’ll probably be more funny than anything.

Tilting his head back and forth, Grian makes up his mind. What could it hurt? If they were helping each other then mutual trust was important. And maybe if he tells Scar his story then he will be more willing to share what happened to Boatem. The real story, that is.

“What do you want to know?” Grian settles on, starting to fidget with his fingers.

“Well, I suppose first off, I know you are lying about why you became a Hero.” He turns his head to look at Grian with a smirk. Grian feels his feathers ruffle at being called out.

“How would you know?” He narrows his eyes.

“Your wings twitch when you lie. It's okay, pretty much every Hero lies about their backstory. Especially to the public!” He laughs. “The media thinks I come from a nuclear family with a mom, dad and sister. And that we were lower middle class and that my powers gave them a better life or something. They eat it up.”

“And that's…not true?” Grian wagers with a frown.

“No. It's really not. But this isn't about me!” He hastily changes the subject. “I wanna know about you!” He forces a laugh and Grian gets the hint. Whatever happened there isn't something Scar really wants to get into.

“Umm…Well I wasn't lying about all of my story. Parents killed in the war, sister and I saved by the vigilante Crow,” Grian is counting on his claws as if trying to keep the story straight. He's said it so many times recently it's like reciting a poem. It doesn't really affect him anymore, so he doesn't really care. “But then we were put in foster care until I turned 18, my sister was 15. But when they kicked me out, I took her and ran because we were going to be split up.”

“That…sounds awful.” Scar hesitantly says. He shrugs, putting his hands down.

“It happens. I was able to do odd jobs but after a while decided to become a vigilante. I could make more by doing morally gray activities.” He laughed at Scars deadpan face. He gracefully ignored him though and continued. “After a while I met some…Like minded people.” Scar scoffs and Grian laughs.

“Other vigilantes I presume?” He crosses his arms with a mock disappointed look.

“Yup!” Grian chirps back with a small smile. “I didn't really have a name, just went by ‘G’ but my sister went by Pigeon, the other two were Impy and Jumbo.” He feels Scar turn to look at him with something close to disbelief on his face, but is soon shaken off. It makes Grian tilt his head with a questioning coo.

“No-Nothing just…never heard of those vigilantes before.” Scar says evenly. Weird, Grian notes, but not any weirder than Scar normally is.

“Well yea. We tried really hard to stay away from public view. We knew getting that attention would be bad, so we just helped each other when needed. Pidge was doing well with her low level shadow manipulation. She had wings too but they were small and underdeveloped. We joked that I took all the good Avian genes from our parents and left the rest for her. She didn't mind though.” Both Grian and Scar huffed a laugh, though Scar seemed to hold back and make sure he could before he did. Courtesy and all that.

He doesn't know what he is giving out so much of this story to Scar. It doesn't matter. Scar didn't need to know this much, all he needed to know was just the ending. But it was almost as if once he opened his mouth he couldn't stop. He never actually had anyone to talk about them with. When they disappeared he was just…alone.

Which he assured himself was fine! He was so wrapped up in trying to find them that he never once considered getting help, or finding somebody to talk to. He felt his breath hitch and his eyes go a bit misty.

He subtly brought his hand up to rub at his eyes. The last thing he needs is for Scar to see him weak. He spent all this time alone, he won't cry just talking about people he will find again.

“Jumbo was an amazing shapeshifter. And by amazing I mean annoying.” He says with a fond, sad smile. He can feel his wings start to droop the longer he talks about his missing family. He suddenly understands why Scar hates to do it. “He used to become a bird just to fly with me, and also squawk as loud as possible in my ear.”

“Sounds like someone I know!” Scar tries to lighten the mood. It works a little, getting a smile out of Grian.

“Impy always liked using his power during patrols. Light manipulation was never easy for him but he took every opportunity to practice. He was getting pretty good at it before–” He sucked a sudden breath in remembering the reason he's even telling Scar all of this. Ugh, he was sorely losing battle with trying not to cry in front of Scar.

“We only worked together for like…six months before they disappeared one day. That's why you never heard of us.” Grian feels his chest grow a bit tight as he thinks of the next part of the story.

“I just…We all went to bed in my apartment one night after patrolling and when I woke up, I was alone. No note, no evidence. I looked for days,” He feels his hands shake a bit as he looks up at Scar. “Days, and nobody has seen or heard a thing. I don't know what happened, but I will find them. My theory is that when we were patrolling we were tailed by some gang or something as we went home. And during the night they were kidnapped.”

He feels a hand take his, holding it still as a single tear travels down his cheek. “Oh buddy...” Scar pulls him closer, reaching his other hand around him and tugging him into a hug. Grian doesn't even try to pretend he was okay, just reaching his other hand around Scar and crying softly into his shoulder.

“It's alright. We will find them. You have a lot of ideas on what happened and now you have me and the archive. We will find them, I promise.” He rubs small circles in the center of his back, right by his wings, and while it felt great and was making him feel better, if he's not careful this whole mess will send him into bird mode, which would not be fun.

So reluctantly, with one last squeeze, Grian pulls back sniffling while rubbing his eyes. Scar keeps one hand on his shoulder, and after Grians puts his other hand in his lap, Scar takes it back in his hand.

“Thanks, I guess we're even now. We’ve both seen each other cry.” He laughs sadly, and Scar laughs with it.

“I suppose you are right! It's called bonding Grian! We are trauma bonded now!” He says it with such a stupidly blinding smile that Grian can't help but double over laughing.

“What? What did I say?” Scar asks, genuinely with his hands still exactly where they were before Grian moved. He looks so genuinely confused that Grian keeps laughing.

“T-Thats not ho-how that works!” He falls back onto the couch, punching Scars arm, but seakinly grabbing his hand again.

“Oh! Well…uhh– We are still bonded then!” He says raising their clasped hands laughing.

They both lean back giggling every once in a while, squeezing each other's hand whenever they feel the need for a reminder the other is there. But after a while of pure comfortable silence, Scar suddenly sighs. It grabs Grians attention as he turns his head to look at him.

“Well. If it was up to me we would march right downstairs and search the whole archive until we found something.” He brings his free hand up to rub his eyes, pushing his glasses up while his eyes are closed. Still, Grian looks away. But now he's more scared of what he’ll see.

“But unfortunately,” he pulls his glasses back down, reaching into his pocket pulling out a folded slip of paper. “The mission.” With one hand he starts to unfold the papers. He has a regretful look on his face as he does so.

Grian groans, sliding down the couch dramatically. He had forgotten about the dumb mission. It's only late morning and all he wants to do is curl back into his nest and wallow for a while. Maybe, just maybe, he could go a little bit birdy with Scar here.

“Do we have to?” He coos, purposely falling onto Scar's shoulder. It surprises him enough to almost drop the papers. He laughs when he looks down to Grian, who has pulled out all the stops and is giving the best puppy eyes he can muster. It must come out short since he's getting laughed at.

“We kind of have to, Birdy. Unless you have a better plan.” He places the papers on the coffee table and Grian knows he's winning. He feels his wings flutter and his eyes dilate just a bit while he looks at Scar, just to cement his place in getting his way.

“Oh I see what's going on here.” Scar laughs, Grian narrows his eyes. While he's sure that Scar really does know, he doesn't know how he feels about Scar knowing a different Avian. He churrs in displeasure, which only makes Scar laugh again.

“Alright fine, you've had a long morning.” He pulls on Grians arm until he all but falls into his lap. He chirps and curls up a bit around Scar's legs. Not what he was expecting, but he’ll take it. “Can I preen your wings?”

The question splits Grian in half. His Avian side is flying with joy at the thought, but his more human and traumatized side says he's already been so open and vulnerable he shouldn't do it anymore today. But…He's so tired. And overwhelmed from just the past two days, maybe he deserves something good. And even if this means something, means something important to both Scar and Grian, he knows neither of them will say a word.

So with a small shuffle and coo, Grian relaxes his wings in his own version of an answer. But Scar understood with a huff. Grian letting out a pleased cheep as Scar started running his hands through his wings.

He felt himself relax into the feeling as he reached further down then just the maintenance preening he did earlier. He missed this and he didn't even realize he did. It feels nostalgic, like this should be something he was used to. Something that he had done hundreds and hundreds of times. One thing felt missing though.

With his eyes closed, and honestly half asleep, he blindly threw his hand out reaching for the record player. Feeling for the switch, he felt his claws graze it. So he turned it over, hearing the music he had turned off earlier start right where it left off.

Pleased, he brought his hand back with a coo and smile. Now this was nostalgic and peaceful. Except for the fact Scar stopped moving. He let out a dissatisfied chirp opening one eye to try and look up at him, but his wings were in the way.

“W-where did you get these records?” Scar askes a little stilted.

Unfortunately, Grian was not in the right mind to answer nor quite understand the question. Instead, he lifted his wings back into Scars hands impatiently. The Hero hesitated, but went back to running his hands through without speaking again. And that was the last waking thought he had before passing out in Scars lap.

Chapter Text

His back hurt. Not something that totally unusual, but upon recent events it is quite odd. Chirping quietly, he stretched out still laying in his stomach. He felt something under him move, making him cheep, shocked. He looked over his shoulder and was surprised to see Scar with his head tilted back, asleep.

He felt his cheeks immediately heat up as the memories from just a few hours ago resurfaced. He put his face in his claws with an embarrassed churr. That's all it took? Really? He spent all this time tough, alone, and independent. And all it took was a few weeks of companionship and he not only spills his life story but cries and goes bird mode?

Scar probably thinks he’s hella weird. Falling asleep right in his lap after crying like a little weak fledgling. This has got to be one of the top ten worst moments of his life. Possibly top five, which is hard cause the top three spots are already taken for life.

This is fine. He can fix this. All he has to do is get up, and pretend this never happened! Ever! At All!

So, with the grace of a newborn fawn, he slowly starts to extract himself from Scar. Luckily, the Hero stays asleep. Grian finally is able to sit next to Scar, still close but no longer touching. Something in his chest protests the distance, and he sighs. He's indulged in that for long enough. Be gone BirdBrian!

He sits up straighter to try and look at Scars face. His glasses are still on and with his head tilted back Grian can see the start of a five o’clock shadow. His lips are slightly parted as he snores quietly. His neck is bent at an angle that really can't be healthy and will definitely hurt when he wakes up. He has his arms crossed as he sleeps, which makes sense If they were still in Grians wings he would've had a way harder time trying to get free.

He looks peaceful and honestly, dead tired. If Grian wasn't sure about the Heros sleeping patterns before he had a good guess now. He almost felt bad about how his first thought was to prank him. Almost.

But the longer he looks, and the longer he stays asleep the less and less Grian feels like waking him up. With a sigh, Grian turns to look at the clock. It's only 1pm, and if he remembers correctly then the mission thing wasn't until later tonight. And to be honest that's all he really remembers about it. He should really look into those folders again, and probably the letter that Cub handed them.

But looking back to Scar, he feels something, something that disgustingly feels like fondness spreading through his chest making his wings twitch. Fine! Fine. Just this once! And only because he's asleep and won't know it was him!

With a quiet happy chirp Grian gets off the couch and goes into his room pulling a few blankets off his bed along with a few pillows. Chittering the whole way, he places the pillow against the arm of the couch and the blankets on the floor for a moment. He slowly, ever so carefully pulls Scar arms apart before taking his head and pushing him over until he gently hits the pillow. He then drags his legs up, thankful he had taken his shoes off when he walked in, and folds them on the couch as well.

Finally he grabs a blanket and drapes it over him and shuffles it around until his brain deems it fine, which he follows the same routine with the next two other blankets as well. When Grian is done he chirps happily but then groans in recognition. The poor Hero is buried in a makeshift nest. Welp. He fell asleep next to an Avian. His fault so he gets to deal with the consequences. Nothing can be done.

Looking back to the clock he decides to wake him up an hour before whenever they need to get there. Which he should really find out in case it's like 20 minutes from now, which would suck.

So with one final contented chirp he goes back to the bar table and pulls the files off the counter. They had been set off to the side when Scar left the other night. He assumes they both hold the same information but he grabs them both just in case anyways. Maybe if he studies them enough then he can just tell Scar what they need to do so he doesn't have to do anything when he wakes up.

With that thought, Grian takes them back to the couch and sits down on the floor by Scars head. The Hero was covered head to toe in blankets with just a little tufted of his hair peeking out from the top. He hopes it won't get too warm for him, maybe he should open a window or something just in case? Maybe later.

He sits crisscrossed, pushing the coffee table back a bit so he had some floor space to work. Opening the folder ment for him, he reread the instructions the way Scar told him, every third line in the paragraphs.

It basically told him that at 6pm tonight there was to be a drug exchange happening at an abandoned warehouse. They were to not engage, to just watch what happens and possibly get some information.

He grabbed, for the first time, his comm from his room. He had been here for a few weeks and had never used it. Now that he's thinking about it he thinks it's just because he's not used to having access to something like this. He never had one before on the streets and he did just fine. He had mostly forgotten they had given him one. But right now it could be quite useful.

He sat back down and turned it on, it looked and worked like a normal phone. It had almost no contacts in it, just Scars and StarVoids, which he found a little odd. But otherwise it was completely unpersonalized.

He looked up the address of the warehouse given in the papers, and found it was a good 45 minutes away from where they were. Just on the inside of the city limits in a place that Grian very rarely ever patrolled when he was a vigilante. That's not to say he never did though, that place is definitely not the most well maintained place. Most of the drug dealers Grian dealt with came from that area, but he was never able to actually catch where they were coming from. Perks of being a Hero he supposed, the address just fell into his lap.

It sucks that they aren't allowed to engage though. Then again, the mission details did say they have been after this drug for a while now so maybe this could be a big break as long as they get some good information.

The pictures that were included in the folder seemed to just be mug shots or blurry camera stills of random dealers they might see, and to watch out for. As in, if they see them, then they are in the right place. It makes Grian laugh quietly, they will know they are in the right place if they see drugs.

Grian was no stranger to the dealing of the late night in Hermit Empire. Drugs are an issue everywhere, but in the poorer parts of the city it's almost debilitating. He would help drugged up men and women home quite often. The people that buy the stuff are never the issue. They are good people making poor choices. The dealers are the epitome of moral grayness. They need the money for them or their family, but selling it to vulnerable people? The morally gray vigilante drew his moral line somewhere around there. Unfortunately, for those dealers.

Grian continued to pour through the information for a while more, just to make sure everything was committed to memory. It's his first mission! If he wants more time to look for his family then they’ll need to get this done quickly. Or even…who knows maybe the gangs they’ll be running into will know something. He both hoped they did and didn't…

Shaking his head to the side, Grian decides to forego that train of thought, and instead look at the time. It was now 3pm, he had been looking over all of this information for around two hours now. He sighs, piling all the papers back up and placing them up on the coffee table.

He stands up pulling the table back where it came from before turning around and looking over Scar. The Hero was still dead asleep. He must've been really tired if he was still sleeping like this. Grian coos sadly, upset that the Hero stays up as late as he does. He can only assume that the Hero has a lot on his plate all the time. Even during the week break he had been training. Grian isn't even sure Scar took a break at all.

Well, he can probably stay asleep until around 4pm. Since he still needs to get ready and they still need to travel to get there. Grian Starts to walk to his closet to pull out the uniform he will wear and get ready now. It's technically a job so he has to get the whole nine yards on, including the makeup and hair.

He picks the darkest looking pieces Cub gave him, since it is a stealth mission. Him and Scar will be pretty matchy today, the thought makes his huff a laugh. He puts together a mostly black outfit and heads to his bathroom to start getting ready.

He takes a quick shower, making sure to not to get his wings wet. When he got dressed again, he went to preen his wings absentmindedly but finds that there's no reason to. Nearly every feather is in place and he feels nothing between them. He's surprised he didn't even notice it before since it's such a foreign feeling, having them be so perfectly preened. Even the places he can't reach alone were done. Scar is a miracle worker and if Grian has anything to say about it Scar will never know.

He gets dressed in a pair of dark loose pants with strips of pink down the sides. He tucked a sleeveless black shirt into his pants paired with a light off the shoulder zip up jacket. He had a blue belt with black hearts around the sides. His jacket had the CuteGuy logo over the heart.

He pulled his hair back into a low bun, and pulled out his makeup. He knew it would be dark wherever they were going but that didn't mean he couldn't look snatched. Dramatic wing and smokey eyeshadow to match his outfit with some stars and hearts across his nose and cheeks.

Happy with the final look, he takes his sunglasses off the counter and fixes them to the top of his head. Looking in the mirror one last time, he decides it's good enough and walks back to his front room.

Still, Scar is asleep on the couch curled up around a pillow now snoring softly with his face now outside of the covers. Grian coos, looking at the time and knowing he has a decision to make. He could be nice and just wake him up kindly. Or he be mean and wake him up in a very Grian way.

Unfortunately for him, (fortunate for Scar) the decision is made for him when he hears a groan from the couch. Grian leans against the wall crossing his arms with a small smile as he watches him. Scar hugs his pillow closer, his glasses squeezing against his face making him frown deeply. It makes Grian laugh, gaining Scars attention as his eyebrows pinch in confusion.

Then suddenly the Hero sits up raising a hand to his head with such speed it makes Grian jump.

Wha-?” He so eloquently speaks looking around the room until his eyes land on Grian. And when he does, his shoulders drop as if relieved. Grian tilts his head with a questioning coo, continuing to smile despite his previous startle.

Scar doesn't respond, but does look more at his surroundings, much to Grians chagrin. He seems confused at being all wrapped up, looking down at the blankets that fell from his shoulders to around his waist. He grabs at one of the pillows looking from it too Grian, then back. Slowly a smile spreads across his face, erasing the confusion.

Grian rolls his eyes, kicking off of the wall and walking back to the couch. Taking his blanket and pulling it off of Scar.

“Yeah yeah I’m so generous and cool and a bird, don't get used to it!”

“Hey! I didn't say anything!” He laughs, bringing his hand up to cover his chest as if was wearing nothing when Grian pulled the blanket off. Grian rolls his eyes, reaching down and grabbing one of the pillows just to thwack it right at Scars face.

“Rude!” The Hero laughs, falling over and stretching out. He yawns, covering his mouth with his hand. Grian drops the pillow onto his face just for extra measure, before heading to the kitchen to get some water.

“How long was I out?” Scar asks, throwing the pillow across the room at Grian. It was a dead hit to the back of his head which made him squawk, not having expected it and almost dropping his glass. He hears Scar laugh joyously while still laying down.

“How did you even-?! Whatever. A few hours, you looked like you needed it so I let you stay.” Grian picks the pillow up off the floor, setting his glass down on the counter. Scar sits back up and he can see the back of his head. Looking at the pillow then to Scar, he smiles and throws it back.

“I would've been fine bu– Ack!” He's interrupted by a pillow to the back of his head. Grian breaks out in cackles, surprised he made the shot.

“Oh ha ha nice shot!” Scar laughs sarcastically, turning around to look at Grian while rubbing the back of his head. “But seriously, you should've woken me up as soon as you did…I didn't mean to fall asleep.”

Grian fills up his glass, pulling another glass out and filling it for Scar. He watches as the Hero stands up then stumbles around the couch with an awkward gait. Grian feels his eyebrows pinch, confusion coloring his features. Scar stops, putting his hand on the arm of the sofa, taking a deep breath before straightening up and walks into the kitchen with him. His clothes and hair are rumpled from sleeping on a couch.

“That's what you get for sleeping on a couch.” Grian muses, handing him the glass. He takes it with a grateful smile, leaning back against the counter.

“Yeah, I suh-suppose…” He clears his throat, taking a sip of his water. “But really, you didn't need to let me sleep. I didn't need it.”

“We had time, and it’s been a long few days. Just let me be a bird for a second.” Grian tries to say as nonchalant as possible while Scars face morphs into a proud smile. He looks to the floor, pretending everything is normal.

“Well, thank you then.” He finishes his water, leaving the glass on the counter.

“I um, looked at all the mission details while you were asleep so we can just head out when you are ready.” Grian speaks, watching Scar take a few steps towards the front door. He looks over his shoulder as he walks.

“Oh great! I’m just going to go get changed and grab my stuff then. I’ll be back in a few minutes and then we can get going!” He smiles, grabbing his shoes by the door and walking about.

Grian rolls his eyes and starts to put some of his bedding away. Which basically involves taking all of it, and just dumping it back on his bed with no rhyme or reason. He grabs his bow and quiver, strapping them on and pulling on a pair of black combat boots.

He meets Scar in the hallway, he's dressed in his typical uniform with his quiver and bow. But something he is very much not expecting is the motorcycle helmet held under his arm. It was pure black with the HotGuy logo on the side.

Scar must have noticed his staring as he holds it out for him to grab. He takes it in his claws with a confused churr, turning it over his hands before looking back to Scar.

“It's a 45 minute drive, Birdy. We have to get there somehow.” He says with a charming smile.

“What?” He replies, eloquently. Scar laughs, shaking his head.

“We can’t always walk everywhere, and having other people drive us to mission places is just asking for problems. So…” He gestures to the helmet in his hands, and suddenly Grian understands.

“Absolutely not going to happen!” Grian chirps, shoving the helmet back into Scars hands and speed walking to the elevator. He hears a pause and then footsteps quickly coming after him.

“What? What's wrong?” Scar asks with a huff, stopping as Grian smashes the elevator button.

“I will not be getting on any motorcycle, let alone one with you driving!” He laughs.

“Why not?” Scar whines as they get into the elevator and press the button to go down. He deflates as he looks at Grian with puppy eyes, or what he assumes is puppy eyes. Really he just frowns comically and looks sad.

“No Scar, I’ll just fly. I read all the information while you were asleep so I know where we are going.” He chirps. Scar gives him a somehow even sadder look.

“Come on, why not? I’m a good driver!” He pleads, shaking his helmet towards Grian as if that proves a point.

“See, it's not that I don't believe you. But because I don't believe you .” The doors open and Grian steps out into the lobby, as Scar huffs walking past him down a corridor he's never been down.

“Fine! Whatever. You don't have to drive with me, but at least follow me because we have to walk at least a few blocks so they don't hear us coming.” He leads them to a door, which when Scar opens the door he realizes that it's a garage.

“That, I can do!” Grian gives finger guns to Scar, stealing one of his signature moves. It just earns him a roll of his eyes and a huffed laugh.

The garage is filled with expensive looking cars and motorcycles for at least a football field's length. Now that he thinks about it, it does make some sense. These Heroes are forced to live in the Hero tower, but they also get paid really well. So where would all their expensive stuff go? It makes him wonder what belongs to who.

Towards the large garage door Scar stops by a sleek looking motorcycle. It was mostly painted a shiny black color, but orange and blue details are painted along the whole body. And most importantly there it's the HotGuy logo right across the front.

There's plenty of room for two people, even one that has wings, but honestly Grian would rather fly. And while it is funny to joke with Scar about his possible abysmal driving skills, Grian would like to take this opportunity to actually fly. It's been a while since he's been able to go for a long fly session.

Scar straddles the vehicle, kicking up the kickstand and hitting a button on the side to open the garage door. He pulls the key out of his pocket and goes to actually start it up. He revved up the engine, seemingly trying to be as loud as possible. He looks away from Grian as he takes his glasses off, then puts his helmet on and Grian just watches, waiting for him to stop being so dramatic.

Finally, Scar gets the hint, tucking his glasses in his pocket and pulling out of his little parking spot and out into an alleyway behind the Hero Tower. Grian just walks behind him until they are both out in the open. Scar closes the door behind them as he finally pulls out into the street.

Grian takes a deep breath before throwing himself into the air. He feels his wings fold out and in, catching air just so nicely. It's been too long since he was able to do this. It brings a smile to his face as he looks down, finding Scar weaving in between the mid day traffic. They aren't really in a hurry, but when in Rome.

He throws himself down, stopping right above Scar, obscuring the light above him. It makes the Hero look up, confused, before seeing Grian and almost crashing from shock. He quickly swerves around a breaking car, before lifting a hand and giving Grian quite a rude gesture.

It makes Grian laugh, so that's how it's going to be? Okay, that's fine.

Grian thrusts his wings down, gaining speed and a bit of altitude. He's still low enough to get under the traffic lights, but high enough to go over every car. He overtakes HotGuy easily, flying over him and then gaining more air and reaching up to swing around on the traffic light. He takes a seat on top, waiting for HotGuy to catch up, making sure to keep his wings spread out so he can actually be seen.

HotGuy finally catches up, and definitely sees Grian as he speeds past, but snaps his head back as he zooms past. Grian sees him shake his head, taking a right turn a few blocks away. He jumps up and off the lights, flying fast to catch up again.

His cheeks hurt from how hard he is smiling. He hasn't had a long flight like this in a very long time. A few flights here and there are good but he had nearly forgotten how nice it is to stretch them out for a longer amount of time. Even his aural feathers are shaking a bit in the wind, loving the feeling.

He's catching up to HotGuy again. He has no doubt that the people in their cars and the pedestrians on the street are very confused. A Hero and their sidekick racing down the street somehow getting stuck behind no traffic as the sidekick flies round like he owns the streets. And while he doesn't own the streets, it does feel like he owns the sky.

Now within arms reach of the motorcycle, he thrusts himself forward then digs his claws into the back pulling himself forward and perching there. With one last thrust of his wings forward, he matches the speed of the motorcycle, then folds them behind himself to create as little drag as possible. Once he's sure he is well balanced and won’t fall off, he reaches a hand up and taps Scar on the shoulder.

The response is immediate, the vehicle swerves, almost to the point of tipping over. By the grace of the Void they stay upright but Grian is sure he heard Scar scream, which is all he really wanted, so after sticking his tongue out, like an adult, and a wicked smile, he throws himself off the back.

He thinks he hears Scar shout again, but it's lost in the loud flap his wings give to get him airbound with such little space to work with. He's had less though, so he's able to get himself up and up with little worry. He goes above the traffic lights this time, making sure to keep an eye on Scar.

He decides to leave the Hero be for now. There will be plenty of time to mess with him on the way back. For now he will just fly normally the rest of the way and enjoy the feeling of the wind through his feathers and on his face.

The city is quite large, but after about 20 minutes they get out of the heavily populated areas and into the poorer ones. This means less traffic and less people walking around. They were able to slow down a bit and Grian had a bit more fun flying around chimneys and houses just because he could.

Finally, Scar turned down a run down alleyway and Grian followed. Most of the buildings around here weren't too tall, compared to downtown. Mostly there were warehouses and apartment buildings with a few stand alone houses scattered around.

The alley that they were in was pretty run down. It was narrow, in between two of the taller looking apartment buildings in the area. The bricks were crumbling and the concrete under them was more gravel than anything else. A few alley cats scattered when Scar drove in.

He dropped onto the back of Scar motorcycle, perching behind the man as he flipped the kickstand and turned off the engine. Scar threw his leg over the side, stepping off and taking his helmet off. He kept his head down as he put his glasses back on. He hung the helmet off the handle, turning to face Grian with a smile.

“Those were quite the moves you pulled out there, PeskyBird. I’m sure Cub is going to love seeing the videos of that online tonight.” He puts his fists on his hips. Oh yeah. He wasn't really thinking of the people around him when he was doing all that. Or well, he was thinking of them but more so their safety, not so much that they would be filming him. Hope it doesn't give Cub too much trouble. Last thing he needs is to be on that guy's shit list again.

“Thanks, you too!” He quips with a smirk. “Surprised you didn't faceplant out there!”

“I’d never! No help from you though! Jumping on the back like that.” He huffs.

“It probably looked sick as hell though!” He laughs, stepping off as well.

“Oh I have no doubt about that!” He chuckles. “Now,” He starts, pointing out the way they came. “Not that we aren't having a lovely conversation, but we need to walk about five minutes that way before we get to the warehouse.”

“And we just…walk there?” Grian tilts his head looking out into the street, confused.

“I mean. If you want to fly go ahead bu–”

“No. I mean,” He turns to look up to Scar. “Won’t people recognize us and like. Tell other people and then all the nefarious people will leave?”

“Well. If I knew what ne-nefair-i-us meant then maybe I’d know!” He smiles. “But I’m going to assume that you mean bad people!” Grian rolls his eyes, gesturing for him to continue. “We are going to have to travel through the alleyways and try not to be seen.”

He starts walking out of the alley, as if that wasn't the opposite of what he had just said to do. But with a shake of his head he followed the Hero out anyways. There's nobody walking the streets, so they are just able to cross the road into another alleyway. This one looked much like the last, damp and decrepit. He made sure to keep his wings close so they didn't touch the walls.

Grian looked back, seeing a person suddenly walk by, but not look their way. Honestly a smart way of living in these areas. He used to live in an area like this, but pretty much on the other side of the city. Most people learn quickly to mind their own business when it comes to the alleys and honestly anything that is really, not their own business. He turns his head back, watching Scar as he walks between alleyways getting closer to the warehouse of their attention.

“Aren't you worried about just leaving your bike parked in that random alley?” Grian asks, a warehouse coming into view. He hopes it's that one they are looking for.

“Oh it’ll be fine. I trust it there.” He assures, confident as he leads them past a tall, broken down fence.

“I’m glad you trust the bike. But you shouldn't trust the people.” He speaks as they round the back, searching for a quiet and secret way in.

“I’m sure it’ll be fine.” He speaks flippantly. They round the corner and find a whole crumbling through the wall just large enough for them to fit through. Grian squints his eyes as HotGuy speaks. It's like he doesn't care, or knows something he doesn't. Well, Scar has never lived here, and Grian has. So he'd like to think he knows something about this area. Not only that, this is the place he patrolled when the Heros didn't even care.

His feathers fluff up as they squeeze through the hole in the wall. It ends up making the appendages brush up against the sides, getting rubble between his feathers. He starts to chitter, even more upset at the turn of events. He's not sure why this is getting to him so much, but Scar must've hit some nerve he didn't know he had.

Said Hero gives him a confused look, but raises a finger to his lips motioning for him to quiet down. Fine. Whatever, it doesn't matter. Grian huffs, folding his wings back down and crossing his arms. He rolls his eyes, but continues to follow Scar.

The wall they came from led to behind some stacked wooden crates. They look old, but sturdy and tightly shut. When they look around them they see a wide open room with more of the same crates randomly dispersed around.

They were on the lowest level, against the far wall was a metal staircase going up that looked rusted and rickety. A catwalk surrounded the whole inside around 50 feet up. Above that was the roof which could be in better shape. A few spots looked to be bowing from where rain and weather may have weakened it, a few years from being impromptu skylight windows. The whole place made Grian cringe, everything was rusted and dull.

“It doesn't look like they are here yet, but we should still be quiet.” Scar whispers, silently moving from behind one stack of crates to another. Grian follows, but not as stealthy. Scar is crouched down low, as if hiding from the center, but there's nobody there.

When Grian gets within range, Scar grabs his sleeve and pulls him down behind him, much to Grians chagrin.

“What was that for!” He angrily whispers, yanking his sleeve out of Scar's hand.

“We need to not be seen, Birdy. Stay down.” He says, matter of factly. He keeps looking around the creates as if someone will suddenly appear. He turns back around to look at Grian with a serious face. It makes Grian raise an exacerbated eyebrow.

“Okay, we need to get from here,” He leans back around to point at the stairs. “To there, so we can watch from above.” He nods to himself as Grian assesses his plan. “Do you have an idea on how to get there?”

Grian folds his arms across his chest looking at Scar with a deadpan.

“A plan to secretly walk up some stairs while nobody is here to see us do it?” He can sense Scar narrow his eyes, not appreciating the sass in Grians voice.

“We don't know that though. People could be hidden.” He lightly scolds, but Grian isn't really listening. As an Avian he has better hearing than Scar would ever have, and truly, there is nobody but him and his dumbass in this warehouse.

He looks above them and sees the catwalk, then looks back around the creates to the rest of the room. Currently they were behind the tallest stack of crates, giving them good cover for around 30 to 40 feet or so. Glazing back down to Scar, a wicked smile slowly paints his face and his wings twitch.

Scar catches the movement, a look of fear spreading on his face a few beats too late. He raises his hands with a silent shout as Grian all but jumps at him, putting his arms around Scar chest pulling him forward into his. And with a near silent wing beat down, they are both propelled into the air. It only takes a few seconds to reach the catwalk, making sure to go on the behind side to pretend Scar has a point at not being seen, before touching down on the rusted metal.

He lets go of Scar, and the Hero scrambles back almost going over the edge if it wasn't for Grian grabbing his shirt before tipping over the rumbling rail.

“You never learn.” Grian laughs, letting go of his shirt, ducking behind one of the support pillars holding the catwalk up.

“You–!” Scar starts with an annoyed huff. He slides next to Grian, crouching with him. “Stop doing that!” He whispers. “It's not fu–!”

“Shh!” Grian interrupts him when his ear feathers twitch, picking up a noise that neither of them made. Scar immediately quiets, though he doesn't look happy about it. It makes Grian smile a bit before he leans closer to his ear to whisper even quieter.

“I heard something. I think our people are here, and stop being so weird. I’ve probably done this as many times as you have.” He claps Scar cheek twice with his hand and a smile before pulling away to look to the floor beneath them.

He hears Scar huff a laugh mixed with something probably annoyed before joining Grian in his observation.

Less than a minute later a person dressed primarily in loose black clothes walks in from what Grian assumes to be the actual way of coming in. They approached one of the crates that was alone and off to the side confidently. Grian watches closely as they look around a bit, as if suspecting someone to be watching them, before easily prying off the wooden top. The nails are ripped straight from the chipboard below.

Ah, a strength power than. It's hard to tell what level from here, but since this person doesn't seem like a full blown villain, they must be somewhere between low to mid.

Watching them, they reach deep inside before producing a purple backpack that seemed heavy. Well, heavy as in its bottom was bulging quite a bit, but the person holding it didn't seem to have any issue.

Grian glances to Scar, who was just as interested in what was going on. The Hero was shifted with his back to the pillar but his neck twisted to just barely show the top of his head around the corner. With his wings Grian didn't have that luxury, so he stood up and put his whole front along the pillar and made sure his wings stayed behind as he stretched to just peek his eyes out.

The person took the bag and dropped it in the center of the room, not bothering to close the box they got it from. They seemed impatient, tapping their foot repeatedly while continuously pulling out their phone to check the time. They seem jittery, bouncing back and forth while scratching at their covered neck.

They were too far away to catch any features, but the person also kept their hood up the whole time. Their back was to them now, just stood there waiting.

Finally, just before Grian was about to bug Scar again, the sound of grating metal reached his ears. His wings flicked at the garshish sound, thwacking Scar across his chest, punching the air from his lungs. Grian smacked a hand across his mouth to keep from laughing as Scar tried everything in his power to keep his gasping breaths as quiet as possible.

“Sorry!” Grian mouthed at him, which earned him an irritated thumbs up with his free hand, as his other was on his chest helping to regulate his breathing. Grian had the distinct feeling he was going to get a talking to on the way home… They both turned back to look at the now two people down on the warehouse floor.

The new person looked feminine, dressed in short shorts with a pink hoodie with the hood up. She had blonde hair and that's all Grian could see.

“About time you showed up.” The original person said, annoyed. The new person just laughed.

“I told you I’d be late. Let's just get this over with, I’m a busy person you know.” She waved her hand around flippantly, bending slightly to reach for the backpack, which was hastily pulled back.

“I don't think so, babe. Show me the money from your sugar daddy, and then we can talk.” The darkly cladded person said, reaching down to pick up the pack they had pulled over with their foot. The woman huffed, standing back straight before reaching into her front pocket, pulling out what Grian can only assume is a wad of bills.

“Here.” She tossed the bundle at them. “It's all there. It's the good stuff from Princess right?”

“Princess?” Grian mouths to himself, turning to look at Scar who seems just as confused.

“Of course it is. Are you accusing me of selling bad shit?” They say, counting the bills they had caught.

“More and more people are these days.” She sighs, crossing her arms. “We trust Princess though.”

“As you should. Don't let them know you got it from there though.” They throw the backpack at the woman, which she catches having to step back from the weight. “Tell your pimp to cut it before selling, make more that way.” They pocket the money, already heading the way they had come in, not waiting for the woman.

“I’m not new to this, you know!” She shouts, putting the backpack on and following them out.

“Oh, I know. I remember how you paid for the last batch. Such a prett–” The piecing doors slam before Grian can catch the last of the conversation. But judging on how it seemed to be going, he's glad he didn't.

He lets a breath out, relaxing his wings from the tensed position they had been stuck in. He watches as Scar stands back and hears the Hero's knees pop. He leans on the pillar for a second, before facing Grian with a smirk.

“Let's get out of here, we got some good info.” He whispers, pushing off the pillar to walk towards the stairs. Grian rolls his eyes, throwing himself over the side of the railing, spreading his wings to land gracefully beside the crates. He looks up and sees Scar shaking his head, but still walking his way to the staircase.

Welp, he's got a few minutes to kill, and he's serious about that crate. Listening closely, just to make sure the people are gone, Grian tiptoes closer to the box the backpack came from. It's about knee height and in better looking conditions than the ones around it. With its top pried off, Grian looked inside, seeing almost nothing at all. He's about to leave when the light catches something in the bottom.

Crouching down, Grian leans back and forth watching as the light hits some sort of liquid at the bottom. There's only a few drops, it looks milky and new. As if they must have come from the backpack. Huh.

He reaches his hand down, intent on swiping a drop to look at it closer. But as he reaches down, a hand clamps over his wrist, startling him. Snapping his head over, he sees Scar leaned over holding onto his wrist quite harshly.

“Do not touch random substances at the bottom of a container we know drugs came from please.” He says not unkindly.

Grian feels his cheeks get hot at being called out. His logic is sound, but also, asshole. Scar drops his arm, which he pulls to his chest indignantly, as he leans down himself to look at the liquid. He's tilting his head like Grian watching the waning light reflect from it. Together, they watch as it slowly seeps into the wood, before disappearing like it never was there.

“I’ve never seen anything like it.” Scar murmurs, standing back up and Grian following.

“It kinda looked like the stuff that drunk guy from the other day was drinking. The one with the low level telekinesis.” Grian thinks out loud. Scar hums in confirmation.

“I think you're right. But that was drunk, this is supposed to be drugs. I’m not sure there's a c-core-i-lation…” He shrugs, they both take one last look into the crate.

It's true that there could be no correlation, but he's never seen alcohol like that one last night. Nor has he seen a drug that looks like this. He's seen plenty of other drugs when he was a vigilante. Hell he had gone undercover once or twice as a dealer to catch a few people before. But all of those were pills or rocks. This seems to be a pure liquid. Weird.

They both walk back out the way they came, through the hole in the wall. It's significantly darker now than it had been when they went in. The sky is a pleasant dusk as they make their way silently back to Scar motorcycle. They are both thinking (somewhere in the back of Grians mind he makes a joke about how hard that is for Scar, but it stays where it's formed.), uncertain of which information is really important.

The mission details had been a bit confusing for end game wants. Sure they gave a time and place for today, but other than that they have been left on their own. Grian assumes that they are meant to investigate this new (or possibly old) drug, find its name and makers, and wipe them out. There must be a reason the Council has sent them on this mission. And taking drugs off the streets sounds like something Heros would do, so Grian thinks of ways to get to that ending.

They come up upon Scar's bike, right where they left it as Scar said it would be. Grian rolls his eyes and Scar throws a cheeky smirk his way. He takes a seat on it backwards, facing Grian while leaning back on his hands.

“Well, we learned a few things. Any idea on who Princess is? She has to be the supplier or something.” He asks.

“No idea,” Grian crosses his arms thinking. “I know a lot of dealers from when I was patrolling out here. But Princess is not a name that I recognize.”

“Hmm. Well, we can check the archive downstairs and see if we can find anybody with that name. It's kinda all we got to go off of, unless you heard something I didn't?” He wagers, but Grian feels his aural deaths droop a bit. He doesn't even have to ask how Scar knows about his hearing.

“Nah, nothing important anyways.” He mumbles. He thinks his cheeks must go pink cause Scar immediately smirks leaning closer.

“Hear something else then?” He smiles as Grian grimaces.

“Shut up, I didn't hear anything!” He pushes Scars face away with his hand as the Hero just laughs.

“Whatever you say, PeakyBrid. Want a ride this time or are you gonna fly again?” He asks, standing to face the right direction before pulling his glasses off, grabbing his helmet and putting on, most likely already knowing Grians response.

Chirping in indignation at being known so well, he barely even waits for Scar to turn his bike on before throwing himself into the sky. Propelling himself higher and higher until he can barely see the Hero below him. It's so quiet up here, and a beautiful view of the sunset.

He follows Scar to the Hero Tower from up there. An uneventful 45 minutes this time as he just soars high above watching the sun go down. And after it's gone, he may do a flip of two. Listen, it's almost impossible to fly and not do some aerial acrobats. Keeps the wings agile. Probably.

He waits for Scar to open the Garage door, before dive-bombing in and hopefully scaring Scar. He gets his feet on the ground, coming in a bit hot so he stumbles. Not his most grateful landing, but it does little to tamper with his good mood after such a long over do flight.

He catches Scar putting his helmet on the handle, his glasses were already on as he watches Grian. He has a smile on his face, but he looks like maybe Grian succeeding in scaring him a bit if his pinched eyebrows mean anything. With a contented coo, Grian stretched his wings out as far as they'd go in the big open space of the garage. After a long flight it feels good to extend them to the point they shake, a bit sore.

He reaches his arms up as well, a long full body stretch that has him chirping up a storm. When he finally relaxes he notices Scar had wandered up next to him, smiling.

“You have very nice wings.” He says unconcerned. As if that's not something Grian doesn't hear often. It makes him feel…weird. His heart is singing to accept the compliment because his wings are very pretty. But his brain feels awkward. People usually don't compliment hybrid traits. Maybe Scar is just different though.

“Um…Thanks! Grew ‘em myself!” He tries to laugh off, luckily Scar does laugh with him even if it feels like the joke was a bit flat.

Scar seems to dismiss it, heading to the door leaning back to the hallway. He hits the garage door button on the way out as Grian follows.

“I’ve never seen that pattern before in an Avian. Watcher had pure white, and yours are mostly red with some white. Do you know what bird you are?”

The question kind of throws Grian off. While, no, he doesn't really know, it begs the question: is he supposed to know? Before the hybrid act a few years ago nobody really cared too much. People looked at wings as pretty things they wanted, so the type of bird didn't really matter, as long as it was pretty.

He brings his wing around to look at the feathers and its shape. He has a very faint memory of being little and his parents telling him about the bird types and reading a book to him and his then baby sister. But he doesn't really remember much.

“I…don't really know.” He lets his wings go, folding back behind him as they walk into the elevator hitting the lower level button, heading to the archives. “When Avians are born they have white wings, and then when they get older they shed them almost overnight and get replaced with whatever coloring they get. Our parents were two different birds I think. Dads were really red… maybe a cardinal? Moms were like…brown? And speckled I think.”

“Well, if your dad was a cardinal, wouldn't you be?” Scar suggests.

“But where did the white come from?” He shakes them out, fluffling them up a bit. This is such a weird conversation that he hasn't had since Mumbo and Impulse. Those curious bastards thought his wings were so cool. It was the first time he ever remembered someone just liking them because they were attached to him and not because they wanted them alone.

“White cardinals exist.” Scar points out, walking out the open doors toward the archive elevator.

“They do?” He didn't know that…

“Yeah! It's actually a rare genetic thing to make them lose some coloring. But they look pretty!” He smiles as the doors close and down they go.

“Huh...”

“Have you never looked into it?”

“Well up until pretty recently people just wanted the wings for themselves so pardon me for not really caring for what bird I am.” Grian rolls his eyes leaning against the wall and crossing his arms.

“Well it wasn't that recently I’d say.” There are a few moments of silence before the doors open, and Grian is quite done with this conversation. Walking out before Scar can finish his thought and plowing through the door to the decontamination room.

Scar scrambles after him, able to get in right before Grian closes the door.

“Alright I’ll let it go! But look it up, it's a cool bird–!” He whines as the airlock cuts him off. When Grian can, he laughs at Scar getting the air taken from his lungs in the middle of speaking. They wait for the other door to open, as Grian tries to stop feeling so awkward about the conversation they just had.

Finally, they both are released. Grian rolls his eyes for what feels like the millionth time today as Scar takes a dramatic breath of air upon leaving the room. The move into the actual archive Grian had once tried to break into, and had since spent quite a bit of time with Scar going over. He knew this place pretty well now so they both took a section to work though.

“Look for anybody named ‘Princess’ or groups. It could be a gang code name too.” Scar remarks, going over to the civilian section, leaving Grian to the ‘Gangs and Affiliations’ area.

They both spend the next few hours piling every file that they could find that even mentions the name Princess. And after those few hours, Grian is surprised to find out how lackluster of a pile it is. Grian had only found one file in the gang area that referenced a Princess, and it was code for a different drug Grian had already known about. So that got rid of that lead.

Scar had been shocked to find there were only two women named ‘Princess’ in the whole Hermit Empire, and both of them were cleared as they looked further into their background. One was a bank teller and the other was a lovely old retired woman who worked for a church.

So after hours, they had nothing.

“Princess…Princess…” Scar was pacing, picking at his lip as he spoke. He was mummering the name over and over as if one of the times he spoke it, it would mean something else and drop a clue from the Void.

“Saying her name over and over isn't going to help Scar.” Grian moans, skimming through some of the files he had already dismissed in case he forgot something.

“Well what else do we have?” He threw his hands up in exasperation. Grian looked up at him, lifting one eyebrow in question.

“Are you hoping that if you say her name enough, you’ll become a princess and gain all the knowledge of who we are looking for?” Grian asks in faux seriousness, breaking up the stale air making Scar laugh.

“I still have my Tycoon dresses, all I’d need is a tiara and the shoes!” He laughs, tilting his head back. Grian laughs along with him. If only it was that easy. He would dress up too if it would help them figure it out. Not that he has a nice enough dress. He might have the stockings. Stockings. Princess stocking. Princess…shirt? Why does that ring a bell in his brain?

His eyebrows pinch together and Scar continues to giggle in the background. Princess…leggings? No…Princess…Pants? Pants!

“Princess Panties!” Grians gasps pointing at Scar with wide eyes. Scar stops laughing, snapping his head to Grian with a scandalized look.

“I don't know if I have a pair of those, G but–” He stammers, cheeks going pink. Which in turn Grians go bright, fire truck red.

“No! No! That's not–! No!”He fumbles with his words, interrupting Scar. “It's a place! The drug dealers!” He stands up trying very hard to explain himself. Even his wings have snapped back against his back in embarrassment. “What if they meant a place!”

Both men stay quiet for a moment. It's dead silent in the room and they both look at each other. Then suddenly, Scar breaks out into raucous laughter. He has to bend over to hold his stomach and hold onto the filing cabinet to not fall over. Grian just stands there awkwardly, but the longer Scars laughs, the more Grian sees the humor in what just happens and slowly starts to giggle.

And then that giggle turns into a chuckle, then a proper laugh, and then he's almost as loud as Scar as he cackles and chirps.

“G- you– you c-cant just–!” Scar laughs, walking over to put his hand on Grians shoulder.

“I w-wasn't thinking!” He giggles, wiping a tear, probably messing up his makeup.

“Clearly!” He laughs, redoubling them both back into roaring laughs.

Slowly they both calmed down, not without a few more relapses, but they do finally get there with a few more giggles. Both were breathing pretty heavily, trying to get breath back when Grian finally spoke back up.

“I mean,” he draws out the word to accentuate his point, “There's this strip club named ‘Princesses Panties’ I used to work for before I was a vigilante, and when I was a vigilante I would help the employees to their cars or walk them home when they didn't feel safe at night. It's on the other side of the city. Maybe the dealers were talking about a place, not a person. Kinda.” He giggles one last time, wiping his eyes before looking up to Scar. The Hero has a very confused look on his face. In turn, Grian gives him an equally confused look back. What was confusing about what he said.

“You worked at a strip club?” He asks, quietly as if it's taboo. And suddenly Grian is struck with how it sounds.

“No!” He pushed Scar away with a huffed laugh at the ‘oof’ the Hero lets out. “I was basically a janitor. I told you, I worked odd jobs before I became a vigilante. I didn't even officially work there. I did them things and they gave me money.”

Saying it out loud makes Grian pause. His face contorts a little in confusion remembering those times.

“Hey I’m not judgin’! Just askin’!” Scar hastily amends. “Besides, that's kinda cool! I bet it was very pretty! All the lights and stuff.”

“As much fun as kicking out drunk people and picking up cigarettes can be I suppose.” Grian says, absentmindedly. Scar waits, clearly Grian is thinking. Grian notices, looking up to Scar to see him waiting patiently, though he clearly wants to say something.

“It's just… I know the owners pretty well and they wouldn't do something like use their business as a front for drugs…” Grian muses.

“Well, it's been a long time since you worked there. Maybe they've changed owners?” Scar suggests, but Grian just shakes his head.

“It's named after the owners. A married couple named Lizzie and Joel, nicknamed Prince and Princess– and before you think about it too much, Joel is Princess and Lizzie is Prince. Joel is even one of the dancers.” Grian smiles while he rolls his eyes, thinking of the couple. “They loved Princesses Panties. They wouldn't just sell it…”

“Well. It's the only lead we’ve got, G. Everyone has some demons, maybe they found theirs.” The thought makes Grian sad, but Scar is right. It's really all they've got to go on.

“Well, it's the perfect time of night to visit a nighttime vice. You down for some undercover work?” Grian smiles. Scar looks at him like he's a little scared of the look in Grians eye. But all the same, he gives him a wide smile.

“Always.”

And with that, they head back up to their rooms to change into something they wouldn't be recognized as: miscreants.

Chapter Text

“Scar you are taking forever again!” Grian bemoans banging on the door. Technically he doesn't need that bathroom, he used his own in his room. But also technically Scar has his own bathrooms to use, yet when Grian was finally ready and dressed he came out into his living room to see his other bathroom door closed with the lights on inside. So Scar really did just sneak in while Grian was in his master bathroom getting ready, rather getting ready with Grian instead of in his own room.

Not that Grian really cared, especially when he thinks back to his dream. Scar used to just walk in, and now after Grian subtlety pointed it out, he started doing it again. It makes something warm and fuzzy spread in his chest knowing Scar hasn't changed too much.

What doesn't spread warm fuzzies is that fact Grian got changed into his outfit, new makeup and new hair style yet Scar still wasn't ready yet.

“It takes a while to a-ach-achi– to get perfection, Bridy!” That's another thing Grian has noticed. While jumbling some words is normal for most people, Scar seems to do it more often than most. But usually he barrels through, skipping the word entirely is new. Hmm.

“I’m sure it does, judging by the way you usually look you don't get enough time normally huh?” Grian pokes, pulling a bobby pin from his hair bending down to pick the lock.

“...That's a very long winded way to say something mean. I think.” He hears him mumble through the door. He really doesn't know what the Hero could be doing in there. He can't do makeup himself, his hair is not something really styleable, and otherwise he just needs to change outfits.

They had decided that Grian would go with ‘cutesy I’m trying to buy drugs’ while Scar will look like his druggie friend. He was surprised to find some normal looking clothes mixed in with what Cub gave him. Again with him always knowing what they’ll need, they were still branded with the colors but it was subtle enough that it could just be blue and pink.

With a final prick, Grian turns the handle and swings the door open. Unsuspecting and startled, Scar lets out a high pitched screech covering up his very much still clothed body with his hands as if he was actually naked. Grians aural feathers twitch at the sound, but he just replaces the bobby pin back in his hair staring deadpan at the man as he continues to scream for far too long.

Finally the Hero runs out of breath, crossing his arms across his chest with a huff.

“What if I was naked! You can’t just break into anywhere you want!”

“If you were then we’d both be traumatized then. My house, my rules!” Grian smiles, looking into the mirror.

“You are awful…” Scar finishes lamely, dropping his arms and looking at Grian through the mirror.

Grian reaches his hands up to fix his hair a bit, messed up from taking the pin out. He decided to just go for a high ponytail, pulling out some strands to frame his face while bobby pinning the baby hairs in the back. He's wearing a pleated above the knee pink and white skirt (with black shorts underneath. He's not a heathen.) It's mostly pink with white lace around the edge, it's even got pockets!

He paired it with white cropped hoodie, fitting with his feminine look. He had explained to Scar earlier that Princesses Panties was an all inclusive club. They had every type of dancer and every type of clientele, it didn't matter who or what you were. (It's not like those types of clubs are taboo or wrong in Hermit Empire, but they are a bit hard to find. It just sucks that this one is in the bad part of the city.) He was hoping to play off the naive look though, hoping that he can flirt his way to information.

He had found a pair of white boots with little wings on the side. The laces were pink so he put on one white stocking and one pink, making sure one of them was fallen while the other was just below his knee. He went a bit heavy on the makeup, hoping to not get recognized too easily.

Fixing his hair, he dropped his arms looking to Scar to see what he was dressed in.

He almost burst out laughing, they were practically opposites. He’ll admit, Scar knew how to dress for an undercover mission.

He was in an ill fitting black button up, rumpled in a way Grian would believe he pulled out of the back of his closet. He was in black slacks, and tanned shoes. Over the top he had a long black trench coat, looking straight out of Sherlock Holmes. He looked ruffled all over, like he had just rolled out of bed.

They looked perfect! Except for two major details…

“Your glasses–”

“Your wings–”

They spoke at the same time, stopping when they heard the other. Realizing what happened, then both laughed.

“I guess we both have something really recognizable.” Grian huffed, fluffing out his wings. “Fortunately for you, you could just switch to a different pair. What are we going to do about these?” He flicked one toward Scar, making him have to dodge out of the way.

“Well,” He started, gently pushing Grians wing out of the way with a smile. “Watcher used to bind him sometimes for missions, we didn't like him to do that though..” He muses. Grian pulls a face, he doesn't like binding his wings either. He has for a few undercover things before, and even for a few odd jobs that weren't too hybrid friendly years ago.

“What's the other option?” Grian asks, pulling his wings to the front, preening them lightly.

“I’m glad you asked!” He ducks down grabbing something off the floor before dumping it on the counter. Its multiple bottles of…powder? Grian reaches out and grabs one to read it closer. “Its temporary wing dye. It's kinda like chalk? I think?” Scar fiddles with his thumbs and Grian reads the label, and is surprised to find that Scar is correct.

“I didn't even know they made this stuff.” He thinks out loud. He puts the bottle down tilting his head to Scar. “Where did you even get this?”

“Well before a snuck in– I mean politely used your bathroom,” He smiled as Grian rolled his eyes. “I had the same idea about your wings being very recognizable right now. So I went to Cub and asked if he had anything.” Grian just blinks.

“So. Not only did you wake up Cub at,” He looks at his comm, “12am, but he also just had wing dye laying around?”

“Oh he wasn't asleep, but once I told him where we were going he said he had something that could help. I swear he said he only has one power, but how he always has what we need has got to be something I swear.”

“You…told him where we were going?” Grian ignores most of his words just at the thought of what he told Cub.

Scar pauses, thinking over what Grian says. They are both quiet for a good moment before Scar cheeks tint pink.

“Did you at least tell him it was for the mission?” Grian pleads.

“He…Uhh. No. But!” He hastily says.

“Scar!”

“No listen! He probably knew! Why else would I dress like this going out somewhere like there! ” He tries valiantly to assure Grian, but it does not work. He just shakes his head with a laugh.

“You are addressing him next without me to explain that one.” Scar pouts, but doesn't try and argue. “How does this stuff work? Won't it be messy?” Grian changes the topic, picking the bottle back up.

“I’ve only ever seen Watcher use it once. But he just walked into the bathroom, then came out with blue wings. So, maybe not?” He shrugs.

“Only one way to find out. What color is this? I can't do blue cause then my wings would go purple.” He twists the bottle open, peering inside at the powdery substance. “Black?” He answers before Scar.

“It's just what Cub gave me. I doubt you’ll have to fly, and even if you do I highly doubt anyone will recognize cardinal wings versus crow ones.” He pulls the bottle from Grians hand, looking inside himself.

“And it's temporary?” He'd be lying if he said he wasn't a little nervous. He had never done something like this.

“It will all just wash off in the shower! Do you want me to help you?” He assures. The question gives him pause though. Does he want help? Neither of them have actually done this before so maybe four hands is better than two?

“Fine. You do the back and I’ll get the undersides.” He grabs the other bottle, opening it and tipping some into his hand. It's very fine. He was a little worried he would be able to feel the gritty texture in his wings, but between his fingers he can barely tell. Well, here goes nothing.

He spreads one of his wings out, grabbing one of his longest feathers and running it through his hand, coating it in the chalk dye. He is surprised at how evenly it sticks to his feather, and when he touches it with his other hand, it barely comes off. It sticks really well to just the feathers. Huh.

He feels Scar discover the same thing, as he gently runs his hand through his wing coating a bunch of feathers at once. Once they both figured out how easy it was, it didn't take very long at all to get the rest of them covered. It only took the two bottles for the whole of his wings, but when he turned to look back at the mirror he saw his ear feathers, reaching to open their third and final bottle.

He leaned close to the mirror, dowsing the rest of his feathers in the black powder. When he leaned back he was shocked at his new appearance. Midnight black wings, all one color instead of the typical ombre. He keeps flexing them, thinking they will change back if he does it enough. His bird brain is not happy with the change. While they are very pretty, they are not his. They look like Crows…

He can feel himself making annoyed chitters and hisses at the reflection in the mirror. It feels wrong, wrong, wrong . Scar pulls him away from the mirror, and out the door. He stumbles, trying to keep himself within view, but he can't fight back as Scar all but drags him away.

“Woah there buddy, not liking the change?” He hesitantly laughs. Grian shakes his head, clearing his thoughts. That was weird.

“I don't know what that was. Bird stuff I guess. Don't look like myself.” He huffs, luckily as long as he keeps his wings behind himself, he doesn't really see them.

“Yeah it's very different! But it still looks pretty though!” Scar tries, knowing what birds like to hear. And Void dammit it helps as he feels his wings flap and a little of the weird feeling in his brain shuts up.

“Thanks. That helps a bit.” He mutters, upset for a different reason now. He folds his arms across his chest narrowing his eyes at Scar. The Hero just smiles as if he has no idea why Grian would be upset.

“You're welcome! Now, weapons!” He claps, moving on. He walks to Grians bar, grabbing what looks to be a cane that had been laid on top of it. Curious, Grian walks closer to take a look.

It looks like a normal cane, but when Scar sees him looking, he presses a button on the side. He jumps as two wooden pieces of the cane's sides spring out, a string connecting the two. A little narrow section carved through the center left empty with the pieces missing.

It takes Grian a second to comprehend what he's looking at, but as soon as Scar pulls an arrow out of one of his inner pockets of the coat, does he understand. Scar places the arrow in the depressed center, pulling it back with the string until there is a distinct ‘click.’ It's a heavily modified crossbow, a low of awe coloring his features as he looks up to Scar. He smiles back, taking the arrow out and folding the pieces back in.

“It's one of the only redstone machines I’ve personally asked Xisuma for. It's what I always take on undercover missions.” He twirls it in his hand, tapping it on the ground and leaning on it. “You, on the other hand, still need something. And we don't have time to ask ‘Suma for something.”

“Way ahead of you.” Grian smirks, lifting the side of his skirt revealing a band counseling a few throwing knives. Then dropping the fabric, he leans down and pulls out a small dagger from his boot. He flips it in his hands a couple times, looking at Scar with a wide smile. He looks impressed.

“Well! Sometimes the simple solution is the best!” He laughs. He spins on a heel, heading towards the front door. Grian replaces the knife back into his boot, following the Hero out the door. He's hoping they can leave out the back of the building, not wanting to be seen out with HotGuy looking like this.

As they load the elevator Grian pushes the button for the ground floor, stepping back and leaning against the wall. He looks up to Scar who seems oddly quiet since they left Grians room. He still has his glasses on, and never left his room to grab another pair.

“Don't you need a different pair of glasses?” Grian asks, confused at why he kept the very recognizable HotGuy glasses on. Scar is already a pretty recognizable guy with the criss crossing scars along his skin. But out of the uniform one could confuse him for a dangerous guy, but the glasses definitely give it away.

“No. Any glasses would be too noticeable. I’ll take them off outside.” Grian freezes shocked. He's just going to…take them off for a mission after all that? He kept them on while sleeping but they just came off for a mission. Scar must notice his bewildered expression, chuckling.

“I usually just keep them off for undercover things. Most of the city doesn't know my eye color and assume the glasses are glued to my face. If I show up without them, but kind of look like HotGuy, they are more likely to let me go.” He shrugs, stepping out of the elevator together, heading down the way they did for the garage.

“I’ve never really thought of that…”

“Most don't. But that's kinda the point. It's so simple and that's why nobody thinks about it. I’ve done this hundreds of times, Birdy.” They pass the door to the garage, heading out the door at the very end of the corridor that leads directly to the outside. It's dark in the alley now, it's past 1am.

Grian feels his palms get sweaty and his heart rate pick up as Scar takes his glasses off right in front of him. He wants to look away like he normally would, but can find it in himself too. He pulls them off while looking down at them, folding them and sticking them in one of his inner pockets before looking at Grian. And he feels the air get stolen from his lungs.

Honey brown. How? His eyes are honey brown. Just like the ones he saw in his dream. At what point does he decide it's no longer a coincidence? It just doesn't make any sense! He's had two dreams so far where things that actually happened, happened. But he has no memory of those things!

He needs to… think. Or talk to someone. Maybe it's like…a latent power? He's heard of that before, like people who dream prophecy. It's a little rare but possible! But so far he's only dreamt of past things that have happened…but he's not crossing that line of thought out yet…

His wings fluff up and then go back down as he thinks. He doesn't know what to do with this information. Why now?

“Um. I know I’m pretty but you have to blink at some point, Birdy…” He nervously laughs, drawing Grian back to the real world. He processes what Scar says after a moment of blinking, scoffing while punching him in the shoulder.

“Ew as if!” Scar laughs pushing Grian away. It's weird to see his eyes pinch as he laughs. He has crows feet in the corners of his eyes, as if laughing used to be as easy as breathing. He has a scar that goes from his eyebrow, and down his left eye ending just at the apple of his cheek. He ever even noticed until now. Or well, he had noticed his scar when he had done his makeup and he took his glasses off. But with them off and his eyes open, it's more noticeable.

“Well, lead the way, PeakyBird! You know where we are going!” Scar extends his hand to the alley entrance.

“From here it must be about a twenty minute walk. But at least this time we don't have to walk through the alleyways.” He mused sarcastically, leading them out onto the street.

Scar sided up next to him as they walked the opposite direction of where they had gone earlier. The streets were empty this late at night, even for the nicer area. The typical traffic of the day was now just a few cars going about their night, probably heading to a night shift.

The street lamps lit up the sidewalk below, reflecting off the windows of the businesses shut down for the night. At almost every corner there was a small convenience store, lights still on with a few people milling around.

If this was a patrol he’d probably hang out with them a bit, make sure they all were okay and had a way home. But as it was, he isn't a Hero nor a vigilante. At least not right now. So they pass them without so much as a glance.

They turn a few streets down, it's starting to get more run down the further they get from the Hero Tower. They've only been walking for around 15 minutes, but on this side of the city it changes over quick. He would know, he lived over here just a few weeks ago. A few smashed windows covered by tarps and random broken glass bottles litter the streets, and it only gets worse from here.

Scar continues to walk next to Grian closest to the road. His cane is on his left side and where Grian thought the man would be swinging it around, he seems to actually be leaning on it as he walks. Odd, but maybe just part of his whole undercover persona.

Grian watches Scar as he takes the scenery in. Everyone in the city has been to this area before but it's a different thing just passing through than actually living here. He watches his eyes scan the dirty buildings with bitterness in his eye. His eyes which he can now see. They move around the area, observing everything around them.

When they finally land on Grian, he startles a bit, making Scar laugh.

“Whatcha lookin’ at Birdy?” He smiles cheekily as Grian narrows his eyes.

“Nunya.”

“Nunya?”

“Oh my Void you fell for it!” Grian barks a laugh, grabbing Scars shoulder sleeve as he laughs. The poor man just looks so confused.

“What did I say?” He pouts.

“Nothing buddy. Don't worry about it!” He giggles, not even finishing the joke so happy and surprised it even worked.

He recognizes the road they were on. A few blocks to the right and they will be at the club. He pats Scar's shoulder, putting his hood up and then his hands into his skirt pockets.

“I hope you brought money.” He watches Scar trip on the air when Grian speaks.

“What?” He asks, regaining his footing as Grian snickers.

“Well, I didn't have any room. And you are my sleazy friend who I’m going to charm up the bartender to get drugs for.” He bats his eyelashes as Scar groans.

“I have my wallet, but I am very upset at this. You getting a free drink off me.”

“Oh you are paying for more than just a drink. We are buying drugs, Scar.” Grian starts to skip down the street with a wide smile. This is going to be a fun night for him if this is the dynamic they are going for.

“Cub will be so mad if he finds out I’m buying drugs with my own money! Who knows what the council will think!” Scar exacerbates.

“Oh please, it's for the mission so it's probably fine!” Grian waves a flippant hand and laughs. Together they turn the last corner, Princesses Panties coming into the view.

“...Still. I’m a Hero buying drugs…” He huffs.

“Welcome to working with a vigilante! Morally gray is the way!” Grian moves a bit closer to Scar. It may be a little past mid summer, but it is quite chilly when you aren't wearing much. Scar just scoffs again at his remark, hopefully not even noticing Grian getting closer.

The club is bright compared to the stores and buildings around it. Black out windows filled with neon signs of different colors. A few of them flickered with movement as showing an angel flying, or a pair of lips kissing whoever was looking at it.

The large neon sign affixed to the roof said the establishment's name, along with the depiction of a man laying across it with nothing on but a pair of pink underwear. Yup. Just as Grian remembered it!

There were quite a few cars parked outside the building on the street. Typical for a late night on a weekend. Again, this place was one of a kind in this city, so it was typically pretty busy.

“You ready?” He asked Scar with a smirk.

“Oh ho! Let's get this over with!” He laughs, taking the lead across the street and even opening the door for Grian.

Shaking his head, Grian pulls his hand out and puts his hood down. The place is much like it was last he had been in here. When was that? Had to be a few months ago now. Been longer since he saw Joel or Lizzie.

The whole theme of the place was royalty and elegance. So lots of reds and lace. Grian had once told Joel that if they ever went under then they could turn the place into a specialty diner. Bring in the knights on horses to serve the food and stuff. He had almost been kicked out, but it was a good laugh!

Just past the doors was a wall and hallway that blocked the view from the street. It was muted, but still loud as the music traveled from the main room to all the way over here. The bouncer was seated right by the door behind a tall counter, he had never seen him before so he must be new. He looked Grian and Scar up and down, and then without a word waved them off, letting them in without even checking ID.

Hmm, maybe Scar was right about this place going under… The Princesses he knew would never just let anyone in.

Walking past him down the hall, Grian reminisces a bit on the dimly lit corridor. It has royal red striped wallpaper, alternating with a deeper red. Gilded sconces decorated the walls with small chandeliers hanging from the tall ceiling.

When they walk all the way down, Scar and Grian are greeted with the main stage directly to their left. A pole from ceiling to the four foot raised up stage, a huge chandelier, dowsing the room in white and red light, hanging from the vaulted roof behind the dancer. And to the left and right were smaller stages, currently unoccupied.

There were themed couches and tables scattered against the walls. Thones and gilded chairs with plush seating for comfortable dances. The main stage has a long, velvet red couch directly in front of it for comfortable viewing. At the moment it was full.

There was a man Grian vaguely recognized on the main stage in a fancy green bikini, with dangling jewels that glittered and almost looked like slime. He has some routine going for some slower song, but judging by all the people around the bottom of the stage throwing bills, the crowd is eating it up. Good for him.

There were a few other workers walking around and mingling with the crowd, hoping to set up private dances or get a few tips themselves. Grian didn't recognize any of the ones he could see walking around. So he pulls Scar to the back, where he knows the bar is set up.

Walking straight past the stage and the crowd of people, he leads Scar along. He looks at the doors of the rooms off to either side of the stage. The place for private dances and such, but he was interested in the back room, more near the back and it's used for storage. Grian had never been back there before, even when he worked here. So if there were any drugs here, it would most likely be back there. But he knew the door would be locked, as were all the doors until a dance was ordered.

So. To the bartender they went, and hope the guy knows what they are asking for.

Grian is suddenly stopped by a person stepping in front of him. Scar bumps into his back as the person smiles nicely at him. They were dressed in a loose pink cropped tank top and white bikini bottoms. They had their blue hair tied up in a high ponytail, with dainty silver jewelry wrapped around their neck, arms and legs.

“I love your skirt!” They pointed to Grian, who smiled back, giving them a little twirl.

“Thank you! It has pockets!” He shows them, which they clap and laugh at.

“Amazing! You are a right cute one.” They bat their eyelashes. “Let me know if you or your friend here want a dance!” They blow a kiss at Scar and they trail their fingers under Grians chin before they saunter away.

Grian laughs, elbowing Scar lightly in the stomach. He lifts his head to look at Scars face while he smiles. They were nice, and while he wasn't going to take them up on the offer of a dance, he appreciates the compliment and the hustle.

Scar looks as awkward as Grian thought he would. Pink cheeks and a slight pinch to his face. The poor Hero was used to getting hit on, but most of those were baseless. Here, it was real and impossible to avoid. Grian takes it in stride, even if he would never be here for that reason. Scar, on the other hand, wouldn't even step foot in this type of place without a reason like a mission.

He doesn't bring it up. Deciding it was funny enough as it was, taking his arm and leading him the rest of the way to the bar. It was a nice looking bar, a back wall shelf filled with different bottles of liquors to choose from. It was built in front of a mirror, so even if you were facing away from the stage, you could still see the dancers.

It was more lit back here, the shelf back lit illuminating the bottles to bring attention to them (especially since he knew they kept the lights brightest on the bottles that cost more.) Along with that, there were hanging lights above the counter. There was a chalkboard menu displaying the specials and drinks, but Grian wasn't interested in those.

He throws himself in a seat at the bar. It's surprisingly not as crowded around here. Most people are watching the dancer. Once he was done then people would probably be back over here, so they should be quick. He makes sure to keep an eye on the dancer through the mirror.

Scar stood closely behind Grian with his hands in his pockets. He had an uninterested look on his face, playing his part.

Grian leaned over the bar, batting his eyes until it caught the attention of one of the tenders. They were a large man, taller and more filled out than Grian and Scar. He had a leather vest on, his bald head covered by a purple beanie. He has a chiseled jawline, and piercing blue eyes. Grian watches him closely, making sure he doesn't see the use of any power. So far, he doesn't see one, but it doesn't completely exclude it. He feels Scar lean closer against his back, tense as he also watches the man.

Grian will admit, while this guy was their best bet (as he was quickly ensnared in Grians trap) his vibes were off, and Grian couldn't understand why. Something about him seemed off, unhinged. He made sure to keep his eye on him as they spoke.

“Hey there darlin’! What can I getcha?” He had a southern american accent, but it was quite light as compared to Aphrodite's back at the Hero Tower. Grian fake giggled, pushing himself back in his chair.

“I’d like a Prince’s Dream please. And my friend here will have The Diary.” He smiled politely. The bartender whistled followed by a laugh.

“Dang, off menu drinks. Yuh come here often? I haven't seen you around.” He speaks as he pulls out the glasses for those drinks.

“Oh no!” He feigns embarrassment. “I know one of the dancers and thought I’d show my friend around!” Points to Scar, who gives a polite smile but stays quiet. The man takes the lie with a nod of his head and a smile. He continues with the fruity drinks, eyes continuously raking over Grian. He just smiles innocently, processing the distaste on the inside only.

“I don't think my friend mentioned your name?” Grian smiled, tilting his head and fluffing his aural feathers.

“Well that's a sure shame. The name’s Jessie. Jessie James sometimes.” The man clearly jokes with a smirk, thinking his joke was so funny. Unfortunately, Grian has to pretend it was, busting out laughing willing his cheeks to pink.

“That's cute.” He smiles sweetly. The man smiles back with mirth, looking down to the other bartenders before standing more closely to the bar to talk to Grian. Hook and line. Now just wanting to reel him in all the way.

“I was wondering actually,” Grian starts, leaning in close as the man puts their drinks in front of them. The man leans over as well. “Are Prince and Princess here today?”

“Why do you ask, handsome?” The man pulls back a bit, judging by his face he didn't like that question at all. Grian feels his heart pick up speed, hoping he didn't fuck this up. He quickly, yet smoothly reaches a hand out and places it gently on Jessie's forearm.

“Oh, my dancer friend,” Grian rakes his brain for the name of the dancer on stage. “Charlie told me to ask you.” He remembers. “He didn't know if they were and he wanted to know.” The man's features smooth over, coming back to lean in.

“Well, honey you’ll have to let ‘im know that they left a few hours ago, before his shift started.” He pulls back, standing up fully again, much to Grians displeasure.

“Don't look so upset sweetheart. I’m not goin’ too far. Just wanting to know if you’ll be starting a tab?” Grian giggles, putting his hand up without looking behind himself. After a few moments, Scar places his card in Grians hand, which he promptly hands to Jessie.

“Don't worry about a tab, he's got it.” The bartender laughs loudly taking the card from his claws, touching far too much of his hand in doing so.

“You’ve got that friend of yours trained well.” He rings them up, handing the car back.

“Oh he does.” Scar speaks for the first time since they got here. His voice is deeper than normal, speaking with a rumble that suggests he is a bit upset. But Grian doesnt turn around to see his face. He just watches as Scar reaches over his shoulder, leaning over him to grab his card back, touching the man like he touched Grian. He watches as the man's cheeks go a bit pink, satisfaction spilling in his chest. They've got him now.

Scar leans back, taking his drink with him. Grian leans back with his drink as well, he takes a long sip. Ah, tastes the same as it did the last time; a bit too strong but tastes of pear and cherry. He smiles sweetly, playing with the lime on the side of the glass.

He flicks his eyes back at the bartender who has stayed watching them both as they drink. His face is still pink as he roves his eyes over them both. So far, the bar has stayed quiet. The other two bartenders take care of the other folks that may come up, and while they give odd glances to their coworker, they don't say anything. Grian realizes that they should probably get this over with.

Grian tucks a strand of hair behind his ear, leaning very far over the bar so he can look up at Jessie through his eyelashes.

“You know. I was hoping that we could,” He flicks his eyes behind his shoulder, gesturing to Scar. “Get something a little…stronger.”

The man tilts his head confused, still leaning in closer.

“Well darlin’ whatcha lookin’ for?” He reaches out and touches Grians arm, prompting him to lean even closer. Whispering in the man's ear, his lips almost touching him.

“Hmm. My friend here was hoping for a bit of a…pick me up? If you know what I mean.” He leans back to look in the man's eyes, watching as understanding passes through them.

He also watched as the man's eyes raked over Scar's form. Looking him up and down, hovering around his cane by his feet. He purses his lips, slowly smiling.

“I think I know what you mean honey. Over use?” He stands up a bit straighter, smiling kindly at Scar. Over use? What does that mean? Grian feels Scar tense a bit, but he kindly leans over his shoulder to whisper with the bartender.

“Oh you know how it can be.” He charms with a bright smile. “But you can help me, right?” Oh Scar is much better at this than Grian was expecting. He had assumed that Scar didn't involve himself in these types of undercover work, but then again being the top Hero, he probably didn't get a choice.

“Oh I’m sure I can do something for you…” He looks from Scars eyes to his lips. And Grian was getting a little nervous where this was going. He was willing to go a bit far for this, but not that far. Luckily, he backed off, leaving Scar to lean on Grian. “But we have some rules.” He reached into his pocket, pulling out a set of keys.

“Hey. I’m taking a smoke break.” He elbowed one of the other bartenders, who gave him a sneer. People were starting to crowd around the bar, the dancer, Charlie, done with his dance. The bartender didn't care, walking around the bar to Scar and Grian, waving for them to follow him.

He took them to the locked storage room Grian thought he would. They pushed past a few people, the man waving off an enthusiastic couple having an impromptu anatomy lesson next to said door. They left with red cheeks and rumpled clothes. Grian just smiled and feigned innocently waving at them, feeling icky on the inside.

Jessie finally faced them, basically towering over Grian and a little over Scar as well.

“One of you has to stay here. It's the rules of the seller, for our… safety.” He said licking his lips as he looked both of them up and down. Gross, but it unfortunately makes sense. Grian and Scar looked at each other, debating without words who was going to go with him. Scar gave the man an obvious once over (to Grian it was obvious at least) before staring at Grian with a deadpan.

Grian knew what he was trying to say. Something along the lines of ‘it should be you, but he is a large man and you could get hurt. So let me.’ Grian just blinked his innocent eyes, relaying his own messenger which Scar narrowed his eyes at.

“That's okay,” He smiles, “Let me just get a little something first!” He giggles, pulling Scar down by the coat until they are very close. He leans close to his ear, whispering while reaching a hand into Scars pocket, pretending to search around. “Take this, and if I’m not back in five minutes, come and get me.” He uses it other hand to discreetly pull a bobby pin from his hair and place it in Scars pocket. He pulls back and shoves a few bills he had pulled from Scar's pocket into his. He had taken some money, and left the pin.

Scar looked worried, but said nothing. He presented to smile, raising his hand to touch Grians jaw kindly while looking over his shoulder at the man waiting. He felt his wings twitch a bit, not a completely unwelcome gesture from Scar, but weird when they are doing it to make some man jealous. Though the more he thinks about it, he's sure the man would be willing to be around them both. When Scar dropped his hand, Grian spun back around, taking the man's arm.

“Show me whatcha got darlin’.” He smiles, giving a purposeful poor rendition of the man's accent. The man smiled down at him, his cheeks were a bit pink, flashing between Grian and Scar. He finally placed the key in the lock and opened the door letting Grian go first before he followed, closing the door behind them and locking the door.

They were in a short corridor, the reddish light spilling from under the door into the dimly lit hall. The sound from the club was slightly drowned out with the door closed, leaving them in a much quieter atmosphere.

The man put his arm around Grians shoulder, leaning him further into the room. It wasn't big, just a typical storage room, a few extra poles and some cleaners. There were an extra few chairs and a couch in the corner that Grian didn't even want to know why it was banished to the back.

Grian just kept an easy smile on his face, pretending he wasn't looking for all the exits and possible problems he could face. There were none, the only entrance was the one he came from, and the only exit was there too. He felt his thigh to make sure the two knives were still there, his heart calming a bit at the feeling of the hard metal.

He was led to a little cabinet in the back corner. It didn't look like it was supposed to be there, it had a lock on it, which Jessie had to let go of Grian to grab the keys to open it. He covered up Grians view to see inside, but he didn't want to seem suspicious so he just stood behind him shifting from foot to foot.

Jessie turned around, slamming the door closed, looking back to Grian holding a small vial in between his fingers. He looked upset, huffing and rolling his eyes. Not the best mood for Grian to try to just get in and get out.

“Looks like someone sold the supply. Only got one left, Pretty Bird, so you and your little friend will have to share.” He crowded around Grian, still holding the vial in his hand. It was the same milky white substance that they had seen from both the drunk man and the drug dealers. He held his hand out, intent on doing a cheeky grab. Smiling and giggling a bit as he reached out.

“Well, that won't be a pro–”

The man snatched it away from his claws, smirking as he leaned over Grian. Grian titled his head putting on a confused smile as he dropped his hand. He was so close!

“Ah ah. Rules are rules. Pay up first, then I’ll hand it over.” He reached his other hand over, going to place it on Grians waist. He was trying to discreetly shuffle over to the gross couch in the corner. Yeah, not going to happen.

He innocently shuffled away, fluttering his wings kindly stepping towards the corridor reaching into his pocket.

“Well how much do I owe you then honey?” He pulled the bills out, counting silently. The man scoffed, reaching over and pushing Grians hands down. He takes Grians chin in his hand, pulling him up to look him in the eyes.

“You’ll need more than that darlin’” He smiled, leaning down. Grian panicked slightly, wing twitching out before he reigned it back in. Keeping his face neutral. He slyly stepped away, facing away from Jessie and walking to the corridor.

“Well, my friend will be able to help with that!” He winked over his shoulder. He startled, the man actually followed him as he walked away, he was much closer than he expected him to be. Jessie took his shoulder and pushed him not-so-gently against the edge of the wall at the end of the hall, the furthest away from the door.

“Product doesn't leave the room, darlin’. So either you pay, or no power hightener.” He leaned in real close to Grians neck as he spoke. He felt his heart drop, this was not going the way it should. But then again, he was getting information. Power hightener huh? At least they are getting somewhere.

“I’m sure we could figure something else out.” Grian muttered, pushing the man away and trying to reach for his knives. He slowly reached up his skirt, feeling the cool metal trying to pull it from its holster. Suddenly, the man grabbed his hand, pulling it up by the wrist.

“I’m sure I’ve already figured ‘something’ out.” He smiles, pushing himself even closer to Grian. No, this isn't going any further, Grian decides. He sneers, bringing his other claw up and wrapping it around the man's wrist.

“My friend is right outside. I'll get you what you want, it’ll just take a moment.” Still trying to charm his way out of this. But also, he squeezed his hand, pricking his claws into Jessie's wrist, drawing drops of blood. He watched as the man's eyes widen, looking from his arm to Grians eyes. He felt a bit of satisfaction fill him, only for it to be crushed as the man's eyes dilated and he smiled widely.

Suddenly, the man grabbed his other wrist as well, pulling them above his head and holding them there with a single hand. He could feel the vial still in Jessies hands, pressing up against his wrist, but he couldn't reach his hand down to grab at it. He watches as Jessies pulls his own knife out of his waistband. Ugh, great! He felt his heart race and his wings flick at the turn of events. He sneers up at the man. The last thing he needed was to get involved in someone's weird ass fantasy.

“You don’t want to do this man.” Grian dropped the cute guy act. The idiot man didn't seem to get it though, waving the knife around a bit as he spoke.

“You aren't the first lookin’ for a free product, but you’ve been askin’ for it all night. Let go a little. I'm sure your friend won't mind waiting. I love when little guys like you come in trying to charm free drugs, I get to have so much fun with them. It's also one of the sellers' rules.” He didn't care about what the man was saying, a single thought ringing through his head. Scar. He had slightly forgotten about actually having help. Usually in these situations he just had to wait for an opening to get himself out. But now, as long as he can stall he can get outta this clean.

“Yeah, for what you ‘love to do,’ I’m sure a knife isn't needed.” Grian deadpanned, bringing his knee up into the man's groin. Jessie buckled with a groan, but didn't let go of Grians hands. He huffed out a breath and pinched his face, leaning over a second just to breathe. Grian kept struggling, but he just couldn't get out. He's strong, but only relative to his size and weight.

He tightened his hold on his wrists making Grian feel his bones creek. His wings fluttered as he tried his best not to let the pain show. Jessie raised his head to look back at Grian, pain and anger in his eyes. It was such a dark change from before Grian felt his heart pick up even faster. He put a scowl on his face, hoping to show the same emotion of anger in his eyes.

“You just fucked up, pretty bird. I can assure you, a knife is a must for me.” He brought the knife up to Grians throat, forcing him to lift his head at risk of getting cut. Even then, the bartender forced it even more, slicing a thin line under his chin slowly beading with blood. This is so fucking annoying. They were going so well until this asshole’s ‘rules’ got in the way. And now he’s back here having to endure this weirdos knife kink.

Jessie leaned down to Grians ear, his feathers flicking the man away, but he ignored it all the same.

“This is how this is going to go. You are going to stand here, and let me paint you a pretty red, then you can have the MooPop. And–” He started to speak, but Grian drowned it out when he heard the sound of the door lock being fiddled with, very, very quietly. But just loud enough for an Avian to hear. Perfect timing.

MooPop? He had heard of that before. Back when he was new to the whole vigilante stuff. But it was like a pill, not this liquid stuff. It was a power enhancer then too, but it was mainly used by powerless people for a killer high, or so he was told. It barely enhanced powers enough to be useful, so it wasn't a popular drug of choice. Why is it being brought up again now?

The man took the knife off his neck and started to lightly trace it up Grians thigh leaving behind a long scratch beading up, lifting his skirt a bit. Luckily, he was on the wrong side to see his own knives, he let the skirt drop, placing the knife on Grians exposed side. He clearly did not hear the door. He couldn't make out what the man was saying, just listening for when the door would open.

Suddenly, he felt sharp pain on his stomach, forcing him to listen back on to the conversation with a hiss.

“You aren't even listenin’ pretty thing. I don't like it when I’m not listened to.” He dragged the knife across Grians stomach, leaving a relatively deep slash from his waist to his stomach. A pained chirp forced itself from his throat, breathing in a breath through his teeth.

Holy shit this guy was nuts! He knew there was a weird ass vibe, but he didn't think it would be this! This took a turn way more quickly then he was expecting, and all he could do was either wait for an opening or wait for Scar. Void, this fucking sucks. He tried to amp up his struggling, feeling his own warm blood trickle from his stomach down his leg.

“Fuck you!” Grian spat, finally hearing the door open. The pain in his stomach suddenly got significantly worse, not being able to hold back a gasping chirp. The man opened his mouth to say something, probably stupid judging by the smirk he was wearing.

Grian felt like he blinked and then Scar was behind the man pulling him off of Grian so hard he flew against the other wall and his head bounced off. Grian doubled over, holding his stomach as blood poured from his brand new stab wound. He slid down the wall to sit on the floor as he tried his best to level his breathing. This is fine, he's been through worse, this is fine.

He lifted his head just as Scar introduced his fist the man's face, cracking his head to the side as his body followed. His head hit the ground first, followed by the rest of him and the man didn't get back up. Grian watched as his fist hit the ground last, milky white leaking through his fingers. Shit!

Painfully, Grian crawled his way over to Jessie, grabbing his hand with a blood covered claw, opening his palm to coo madly. The glass was shattered as the liquid absorbed abnormally into the man's palm. That was the last one! Damn it!

He grabbed the man's shoulders, trying his best to flip the mountain of a man over to check his pockets. He has to be lying! There has to be more on him, he's a drug dealer. Lying is like, their whole thing!

Someone behind him grabs his shoulders, pulling him off and flipping him around. He struggled to get back to searching, but was forced to look up and meet the eyes of his interrupter.

As he forced his vision to focus, he froze. All of him. His struggling, his heart, and his breathing. Bright, blazing orange eyes were staringing at him with shock and urgency. He was shaking his shoulders, his mouth moving but Grian couldn't hear him.

Scar, the man was Scar. But why were his eyes glowing? Slowly, he was able to focus on what Scar was saying.

“Birdy, we have to go, he stabbed you!” He was trying to get Grian to stand, but he wouldn't do it. The pain was starting to come back, but he had something to do. What was it? Oh!

He pushed Scars hands off, turning back around to search the man's pockets further. He could feel Scar grabbing him again, pulling him away. Finally, he shoved his hand into the man's inside coat pocket, getting a hold of a tiny notebook. He snatched it out and put it in his own pocket, finally letting Scar pull him back.

He felt something wrap around his shoulder, pulling tight around his waist and stomach. He looked up to see Scar had taken his coat off and placed it around his wings and shoulders. He had used the waist rope to tie it tightly around his wound, sopping up some of the still leaking blood.

Grian felt light headed, it could honestly be from either the blood loss or the adrenaline from everything that just happened. This isn't even the worst injury he’s gotten, but it was the shock of everything that was getting to him. Scar keeps moving his hands over him, checking over him almost frantically as Grian just stared blankly.

“A–are you– Can you walk?” Scar asked, his eyes are still orange. Why? He felt his head shake ‘no,’ Scar immediately scooped him up and started walking out the corridor. His wings were pinched under Scars arms, but he really wasn't in the right mind to think about it.

Scar snuck out the door, locking it on the way out. Nobody stopped them or even looked their way as they left. Even the bouncer was busy checking some peoples IDs. A new dancer was on stage. She looked nice, but he didn't recognize her. She had a huge crowd around her, shoving bills her way. Good for her. It was so loud.

And then it wasn't. Scar rushed out, jogging down the street towards the Hero Tower. Slowly, Grian was starting to get his head back. His stomach hurt like a bitch, Scars coat scratchy and itchy around his middle. He groaned, pressing his hand harder against it. Doing that made it hurt much more, but after a moment it went numb.

He shook his head, trying to clear his mind a bit more. Scar was still carrying him, looking ahead while continuing to jog. He still had the piercing glowing, orange eyes. He knows how certain powers work, and most show their use by the glowing of certain parts of the body. Most common being the whole body, or the eyes.

So Scar had to be using his power, now and before, yet he hasn't shot a single arrow the entire night. Scar had told him a while ago that his power wasn't actually just sharpshooting. But that leaves the question of what it actually is. At this point he couldn't even hanker a guess. It just makes no sense.

He chirps to get Scars attention, a little startled when Scars eyes land on him. But he shakes it off, taking a deep breath past the pain.

“I–I can walk.” He says, using his other hand to push at Scars chest. Scar scoffs, holding him tighter which is not what he wanted. This whole situation was starting to get embarrassing. Not only did he get himself in a situation he needed help getting out of, he also got hurt and went into shock. What is he? Some amateur vigilante?

“I’m sure you can,” He blinks, speaking seriously. “But you will not.” He finishes finally, looking back ahead to where the Hero Tower was finally coming into view. “We are almost there anyways.” Grian rolled his eyes as Scar picked up his pace.

Looking around, there was nobody on the streets. While it was well past midnight, people usually were milling around. But there wasn't a single car or pedestrian around at all.

Scar bust through the open doors of the Hero Tower, startling the front desk woman. She looks up with wide eyes as Scar jaunts up to her, Grian feeling even more embarrassed as the night continues. He chirps weakly in protest, deciding the best thing he could do right now is hide his face. He turns into Scars chest, curling more around his middle.

“Tell Poppy to meet me in the stairs. Now.” He says, not waiting for a response as he turns to the elevator. Instead of pressing the button though he passes it, shifting Grian to open the door next to it.

He knew this place had stairs! In hindsight he really should've checked the door labeled with the stairs, but Scar always just took him into the elevator and it would be weird to tell him no.

Scar is jogging down the stairs trying his best not to jostle Grian, which he appreciates even if he'd rather be anywhere else right now. He feels them turn a corner, before taking more stairs. Okay now he feels a bit lightheaded, and it's not going away.

He lifts his head, watching Scar struggle to open the door. He tries to help, but his hand isn't listening to where his brain wants him to reach. He cheeps, confused at why it's not working. He shakes his head and feathers, trying his best to understand.

Suddenly, the door flies open revealing a man he's never seen before. Taller than him, but shorter than Scar, skinner too. He's weaning a red beret cap over his dyed blonde hair, as well as a short trimmed beard. A lab coat looked like it was hastily thrown over a blue silk shirt, he has capri pants on, red and gold. He also looked very worried.

“What happened?” He spoke, sounding confused, hovering his hands over Grian. It made him want to pull back, he didn't know who this guy was. Scar pushed past him, rushing on the floor where Grian had never actually been.

It was very bright here, and there were several doors lining the hall as Scar shuffled further in. The random person followed, corralling Scar into one of the rooms toward the end of the hall. At this point, he was just getting tired and didn't want to think any more. He closed his eyes, trying to block out the light, it was hurting his head.

“Ah ah no sleeping friend!” A voice spoke, clapping his cheek lightly forcing him to open his eyes. He blinked, realizing he was looking at the ceiling. When had he been laid down? Eh. A bed is a bed. He tried to curl up, but once again he was stopped by someone holding his hands by his head. He chirped, so confused. His stomach hurt.

“Hello,” The person from early leaned over him, filling his vision. “The names Oli, or Poppy if we’re in public. You are CuteGuy right? I was hoping we’d meet under different circumstances but this is usually how I meet new Heros. Have you ever been healed before?” He smiled, pulling latex gloves on his hands. It took a moment for Grians brain to process the question. Healed before? Like, in general or from a power?

“A power, Grian.” Scar clarified. Oh he spoke out loud. Huh. He shook his head ‘no.’

“That's okay! But this is going to feel real weird for a moment. You don't have a power activated right now or one that I should know of?” The man seemed a bit frantic. Why? Again, he shook his head no. But Scar did! He chirped, looking at Scar. His eyes are still orange! Weird! It felt important to mention, but they both ignored him. Rude!

Abruptly, he felt a chill travel from his toes to the tips of his feathers, but it was quickly followed by flashing heat, and then repeated. He let out a startled cheep, trying to pull his wrists away from Scar, but no luck.

Slowly the icy heat started to go away, leaving him with a vastly loopy feeling. The pain had gone, and so had the tiredness, but his mind was lagging behind. He heard the healer and Scar talking but it was taking a bit to catch up. Oh! They were talking about him!

“The knife missed anything important, and the cuts on his neck and thigh will heal with no scars. But the slash on his stomach and the stab wound will scar and probably hurt after I’m done. He is going to be very tired.” Oli said. Making Grian very curious, he lifted his head to see what the man was doing.

Scars coat had been removed, and his bloodied hoodie pushed up to reveal his stomach. His skirt was also pushed up, his black shorts still in place but his knives were gone. Olis hands were pressing down on his stomach, glowing a muted red around not only his hands, but also Grians wounds.

It was weird because he couldn't even feel his wounds now, they had stopped bleeding but were still there. He must have made a noise because Scar laughed, letting go of Grians hands. He shifted his arms under Grians back, lifting him lightly and placing a pillow behind him so he wouldn't have to keep his head up. Aw that's nice, he cooed.

Oli moved with him, keeping his hands on the wound. He was feeling…better? Better isn't the word. But he's not in pain or bleeding so that has to account for something.

“What's happening?” Grian askes, feeling a bit dumb at how the question came out. He felt Oli huff a laugh as Scar pulled up a chair. He noticed he still had his cane. Must have been clipped to his belt or something. It certainly wasn't in his hand as he carried Grian.

“I’m an Association healer, you got really hurt bad. You were probably about five minutes away from your bracelet kicking in.” The cut on his thigh was almost gone, but Oli kept his hands on him.

“Oh.” He chirped. Huh. He had never been healed by a healer before. He usually just waited, like normal people who can't afford a healer would do.

“You not having a power makes it easier. Some people have conflicting powers to certain healers. I’m lucky to have the most compatible of healing abilities, but we should still be careful.” He smiles, removing his hands to check his progress. Grian doesn't even look down. Not because he's squeamish, but because the hands are put back before he thinks to even check.

“None that I know of!” Grian jokes with a belated laugh. Maybe he's not making sense, but it's funny to him! He looks at Scar, hoping he will laugh too, but all he can realize is his eyes are still orange! “Stop that!” He suddenly blurts, starting the man.

Olis eyes glance over the Hero by his bed, tilting his head to the side before looking back at Grian.

“Are you hurt Scar?” He asks. “You are on my rotation chart, so I can if you need it.”

“Rotation.” Grian parrots, just because he can. They both ignore him.

“No no. I’m okay, just uhh.” He leans back reaching for his blood soaked coat that had been thrown over another bed in the room. Why have more beds than one? There were so many rooms.

He rummages through the pockets until he finds his sunglasses, throwing them back on. Yeah, it is really bright down here. He wishes he had sunglasses. Why doesn't this healing make his head ache go away?

“How long has your power been in use, Scar?” Oli asks, oddly serious. He had sounded vaguely goofy this whole time. Why the change? He looks back to Scar, why does he have glasses on? His orange eyes are now hidden.

“Not long.” He clips. The air suddenly got weird. Maybe he should just…go to sleep? He closes his eyes, but Oli presses harder on his stomach. It doesn't hurt but he makes his annoyance known with an unpleasant chitter.

“Don't sleep while I do this. And Scar, you know the dangers of prolonged power use. Just cause your glasses are on, doesn't mean I can't feel that it is on. It's my job, mate.” He lightly scolds them both, both giving the healer a scowl. He just laughs at them. “Quite the pair you lot make.” He murmurs. But Grian hears, busting out laughing, surprising both Oli and Scar. Now that makes his stomach hurt!

“Ow!” He laughs, Oli pressing a bit harder, the color going from muted to a deeper red. Grian feels the icy hot come back, cutting off his laughter.

“Don't laugh, you dunce!” But he also has a smile on his face. Suddenly, Grian feels very, very tired. Oli lifts his hands away from him, looking down at his wound. Or well, lack thereof since Grian actually looks down this time. It's nothing but a thin, raised scar.

His head is much clearer now, now that there is no power running through him. His stomach still hurts, and so does his neck and thigh, but honestly that's thought in the very back of his mind. His body feels like lead, not even his wings can shift. His eyes flutter, trying his best to stay awake. He was thinking of the conversation they just had, he had so many questions! But as he somehow flops his head to the side to look at Scar, he sees the Hero reach towards his face, as
he finally loses the battle and his eyes close.

Chapter Text

The fight was dragging on for far too long at this point. They had been called for this earlier in the day, and now it is sundown but they are still fighting! The villain, Dragon Witch, decided the object of their desire was the whole Hero Tower today. And while usually that would be an ‘all the Heroes in the area please help and do something’ call, the Council had just sent out Boatem. They could really use some back up right now, but it was not something that they were being granted.

This isn't the first time Boatem dealt with Dragon Witch, (the scars along Reds back showed that) but the only information they have on them is that they are some sort of shape shifter. They clearly favored the dragon form though as that's all anybody has ever seen them use. Other than that, they know nothing of their person or their motives. Which honestly just made the whole situation worse.

They had managed to divert the fight away from the Tower to Saharah park. All civilians had been evacuated from the area and they had been given the go ahead to use any force necessary. Unfortunately, the villain had the same thought.

They were all getting tired. Moon had to retreat once again to beg the Council for extra help, so now they were also down a person. Red had created everything from impenetrable nets, to sticky bombs, but nothing seemed to make a dent. Dragon Witch was always able to escape, get out of the way or they plain just didn't work. Tycoons' arrows just bounced off their scales each time. He hadn't given up, trying to find some weak point, but he had to stay out of sight or he would be targeted.

Watcher was starting to think of any way they could maybe escape and think of some plan instead of this stalemate. He remembered the fight with the same villain from years ago, and the only reason Dragon Witch had retreated then was because, after Red was seriously injured, the Council sent out more Heros and they got scared and flew away.

It was the first time the villain had retreated like that and it was also one of the first times any of them got seriously hurt. Red was out for months.

He shook his head, bringing himself back to the battle, best not to think about it.

Watcher was flying around the dragon's head, trying to keep track of where all his teammates were to make sure they all had cover. It was pretty much all he was useful for, either helping Red by distributing the D.U.S.T. machines he makes or by shielding the others from blows with his wings.

More recently he had started carrying throwing knives he had StarVoid get for him. With Tycoons archery lessons they moved on to throwing knives, which he was weirdly much better with. So it was now an extra line of offense he needed it to be.

He caught eyes on Tycoon, shooting an arrow around the dragon's knees. Yet again the arrow snapped, doing nothing but angering the Dragon and making them spin around to catch whoever shot it. But Tycoon had hid before they could even look. He's proud of the Hero's progress from intern graduate to a dependable Hero.

But now is not the time for reminiscing, Dragon Witch was getting increasingly more agitated with the stalemate and they were making riskier moves. Smoke rose from their nostrils into the air. All it would take is one long enough trail of fire breath and the poor park would be more like a golf course, treeless.

He flew further down, hoping to see Red around. Maybe they could think of something together while Tycoon had them distracted. On that thought, it had been a while since he had seen Mighty as well. Hopefully he was with Red plotting something because Tycoon has to run out of arrows at some point.

He watched as Scar moved positions, making a break for it from behind one of the trees to behind a bench. He readied an arrow, aiming for the dragon's backside (Watcher couldn't help but huff a laugh. Of course Tycoon would think of hitting them in the butt of all things when looking for weaknesses.) and the arrow again, bounced off.

Suddenly, the Dragon let out an earth shaking roar, knocking Tycoon off balance landing on his own backside. They both had a scowl on their faces as they couldn't do anything but watch as Dragon Witch swiped a claw across the trees around to them, leveling them all. They picked one of them up, holding it in their claws up to their mouth, setting it ablaze with a single breath. That couldn't be good.

Watcher flew down landing heavily next to Tycoon, helping the Hero back onto his feet still crouching behind the bench. It didn't last long though as before Tycoon could even utter a ‘hello,’ Watcher grabbed him and rolled them both to the left. It ended with Watcher on top, covering them both with his wings as a flaming log was thrown onto the bench, destroying it.

Ah, good thing he moved them both then. He popped up, turning around to track the movement of the dragon. They were still facing away from them, having tossed the log over their shoulder without caring. They still seemed to be searching for them though, but they still didn't see them.

“Thanks for the rescue. Any idea on how to end this?” Tycoon grunted, dusting himself off and offering a hand to Watcher. Together they slid behind one of the last standing trees in the area.

“No, I was hoping to find Red and Mighty. Seen them?” He peeked around the trunk, the Dragon tearing through more trees.

“They are both over there,” Watcher turned to look where Tycoon was pointing. A few hundred feet away there was a street, and across that Watcher could vaguely make out RedStone and I-Mighty hunched over together behind a set of outdoor seating for the deserted restaurants behind them. He couldn't see what they were doing, but at least that meant neither could Dragon Witch.

“Give me one of your knives. Maybe something like that will actually pierce the scales.” Tycoon put his hand out, Watcher just shrugged and handed him what he had in his boot.

Without another word, Tycoon took off around the flaming tree and to the other side of the dragon, probably going to test another idea for a weak point. Watcher hoped they were making some progress because this was getting annoying.

He took to the sky, intent on going over to check on Red when all hell broke loose. A pained cry out made him pause his movements mid-air at the sound. He was above the dragon, watching as it snapped his head around with enough speed to catch Tycoon red handed. The knife that Watcher had just given him was sticking out of the side of the dragon's stomach.

Well, good news is they found a weak spot. Terrible, awful bad news is that Tycoon was now in immediate danger. The dragon starting to rear back its sharp talons to take a swipe at the uncovered Hero.

Even worse bad news is that he catches sight of Mighty and RedStone abandoning their post, starting to cross the street and get closer. Assumedly, they finished some D.U.S.T. machine that could help, but they chose the wrong time to try and join the fight.

He barreled down, landing right next to Tycoon right as the dragon swiped them both. His wings caught it luckily, only sending them both careening to the side. It hurt and hurt bad, but it could be worse. He snapped back up, ready to shield them both again, reaching for another knife to throw. But the dragon wasn't looking at them anymore, it was much more focused on the two Heros it could now see crossing the street.

“Damn it Scar, you had to throw the knife right in front of Red and Mighty?” Watcher didn't even wait for a response, racing the dragon on who could get to the two first.

Red had barely left the last fight, and ever since he was very wary of even regular reptiles, let alone bigger ones. If he gets caught again he will freeze, and Watcher needs to be there or he might not make it out of this fight either.

He watches right as Mighty notices the incoming Dragon, quickly putting himself in the way first. Tucking Red behind himself as he stands up to the Dragon. He holds his hands out, like if the Dragon comes to close then he will fight with all the strength that he's got. But Watcher knows, his strength is nothing in the face of those claws. And, looking around him, much like he thought, when Red sees the Dragon running at them, he freezes.

He's flying at max speed, touching down at the same time the dragon pulls its claws back. Mighty pulls Red, and whatever they were working on, behind Watcher as he turns around hugging them both. His wings will take most of the hit and be fine, but whatever hits his uncovered back is going to hurt like a bitch, so he braces. He looks over his shoulder, watching as the claws get closer.

But the pain never comes, instead they are greeted with the back of Tycoon. The Hero appears suddenly, poised to shoot an arrow, the claw still coming down. Watcher begins to fold one of his wings out, intent on shouting for Tycoon to get to cover (even if in his mind he knew there wouldn't be enough time.) It's like a slow motion picture.

Right as Tycoon releases his two fingers letting the arrow fly, he is slashed through his side. Tossing him like a ragdoll onto the concrete ground sliding a good 50 feet down. Before Watcher or the others could react, an ear piercing screech waivers through the air.

They all cover their ears, turning to watch as the dragon cradles their face, an arrow sticking straight from their eye.

That's certainly one weakness…

Watcher jumps up, uncaring of what the dragon may do next. He runs to Tycoons side, feeling for the younger Heros pulse. They were all wearing Red's prototype respawn bracelet, but it was only meant for monitoring at this point, it could barely even tell bpm.

His pulse was there, thank the Void, but light. He was bleeding very heavily from his side and had caught the brunt of the attack. Watcher rolled him onto his other side, looking at the damage. Three, very deep gashes ran from the middle of his back, round the side and almost to his stomach.

Immediately, he started taking his robes off to staunch the bleeding. He was staining the pure white, red but he couldn't care less. If he could, he’d take his mask off to see better too. But he knew he would get in much more trouble for that.

“You are so stupid oh my Void, I was right there!” He whisper-shouted as he pressed into the wounds harder. These aren't the worst wounds he's ever seen, not even the worst he's ever treated. But they are for Scar. This is the first time that this Hero has gotten hurt this bad and it feels like Watchers fault. He jumped in front of them to save Grian from the pain, and took it himself.

He heard footsteps on the concrete coming towards them, prompting him to throw his wings over Tycoon, not knowing who was coming. He looked at the Hero's face, there was a prominent scape along his chin and brow, most likely from sliding along the ground. They needed a healer quickly.

“It's alright mate, it's me.” Someone put their hands on his wing, pushing down. He let them, recognizing the voice as RedStone.

“He's not doing good. You call Ponk–er, Willow?” Watcher corrected, still being in public (even if everyone was long evacuated.)

“Already on the way.” Mighty spoke, taking over holding the robes on to Tycoon.

“Let me–” Red muttered, not finishing before kneeling down by Tycoons face, opening his mouth to pour one of his potions down his throat. It was another kind of tech he had been working on. It was supposed to be a simple way to heal quickly, but it only went so far. It would at least keep him stable until Willow got there.

Weirdly enough, it seemed to work almost too well. Tycoon swallowed a few gulps before starting to cough, making Red take the potion away. He breathed in deeply, letting out a pained wheeze and opening his eyes. Red seemed shocked, it wasn't supposed to do that.

“Grian… “ He rasped, coughing into his hand. It came back bloody. At once Watcher was next to Red, looking into Tycoons pained eyes.

“Yes?” He murmured, not sure why he was keeping his voice low. Whatever he had to say felt important.

“Grian.” He started, reaching a weak hand up and pulling Watcher closer. “Not your fault.” He tried to turn over onto his back, but was stopped by multiple hands.

“You’ll be okay. Just don't waste your energy.” He ran his claws through Tycoons hair, pushing it out of the way from his pain-struck face.

“No. Listen– Grian!”

He shot up. A hand coming up to claw at his chest, trying and failing to get his breathing under control. His wildly beating heart pattered away as tears trailed down his cheeks and into the blankets. Someone grabbed his arm, pulling it away from his chest, much to his displeasure.

He needed Scar. He needed to make sure he was okay. Dragon Witch threw him so far and he never got to hear what he had to say! So much blood…

He tried to push himself up and out of the nest of blankets and pillows he found himself in but he couldn't quite get a grip around the fabric to pull it off. It just made him more scared. He had to get to the infirmary! Willow will be there and so will Red and Mighty and Moon and they will all be okay. They have to be.

“Hey hey look at me, Birdy!” A slightly panicked voice spoke from beside him. No! He had somewhere to be! He tried to take his hand back, but was unsuccessful. He was properly crying now, painful sobs escaping his throat as he tried desperately to kick off the blankets tangled around his feet.

The person took both of his wrists, pulling him into their chest and wrapping their arms around him. He tried to fight it, weakly pounding his fits against their back, but soon gave in. He hoped Scar was okay.

“I’m okay. I’m right here. Following my breathing Birdy.” The person breathed in deeply, which Grian instinctually followed. He stuttered though, not being able to keep it up, making him feel even worse.

“Shh shh it's okay, try again.” The person spoke softly, holding him tighter and breathing in again. This time Grian was able to follow better, getting a deeper breath and being able to take another with Scar.

Scar. That's who was hugging him. Oh Void Scar. He wrapped his hands around Scar pulling him closer, his claws tearing the back of his shirt. He's okay, he's here, in this room with him. Where are the others?

“Woah, I’m okay. You’re okay, keep breathing.” Scar was rubbing his back between his feathers, practically forcing coos and cheeps from him as he steadily regained power over his lungs.

Slowly, he calmed down. His heart is slowing and his tears are coming slower and slower. The further that went, the more brain power he got back as well. He opened his eyes, moving his head away from Scars neck just a little to look over his shoulder into the room.

He was, for some reason, on his couch. Scar was sitting on his knees, leaning over Grian while hugging him. He remembered his claws, forcefully unfisting his hands in his shirt and letting it go. He remained hugging Scar close though.

Whatever that dream was, it had him waking up like it was a nightmare. And the longer he thought about it, the less and less it made any sense. Scar is fine. He's right here, and always has been. But he woke up panicking so bad he had a panic attack. Sure, he likes Scar (if he was honest, he liked Scar quite a bit now. He's a good guy and a good friend now that they actually see almost eye to eye) but that reaction to that nightmare was something else. He's never reacted like that, waking up from a nightmare.

Maybe it was just a bad dream that he had an unproportionate response to…

Oh who is he kidding! He hides his face back in Scar shoulder, feeling tears well up again. He's never felt like this before, and it's only getting worse! It makes no sense, none of these dreams do. He doesn't know what to do about them, and they seem to be getting worse! He's not Watcher! He's pretty sure he would be the first to know whether he is or not… But these dreams are always from his perspective.

He had thought that maybe it was some latent power, and that's still not off the table, but that still doesn't explain why it's only Watcher and why now of all times? He feels Scar lightly scratch the base of his wing, making him relax his shoulders a bit. He's trying to will the embarrassment out of this moment as well. It's the second time he's had a panic attack in front of him in under two weeks. And one of them, he was trying to go see him during it.

That's another thing! It's always Scar. Or at least he's always there. If it was just Watcher, why wouldn't these dreams also include when Scar wasn't there? Scar said Boat existed for three years before he joined. Why doesn't he dream about those?

“How are you doing, Birdy?” Scar asks quietly, aware of how embarrassed Grian must be, which in turn makes Grian even more embarrassed. With one last deep breath and short squeeze, he pulls away from Scars shoulder. He doesn't look at the Hero, instead staring at his covered lap. He raises his arms to wipe the last of his tears away, when he pulls them back he expects there to be makeup on his hands, but there's none.

He suddenly remembers last night again. The unfortunate retelling of last night running through his head. Princesses Panties and not getting the drugs and the whole ‘getting stabbed’ bit wasn't fun either. Some things are definitely fuzzy, especially after the part where he got stabbed. But then, like a punch to the gut, he snaps his head up to look at Scars eyes. Upset that they have since been covered back up by the sun glasses.

Scar must take his silence as confusion, sitting properly by the side of the couch. He twists around picking up a glass of water from the coffee table and handing it to Grian, which he accepts gracefully.

“You got stabbed in the club last night,” He says bluntly, reiterating what Grian already knows, but still almost making Grian spit-take as he laughs. Scar looks taken aback, before realizing what he said, his cheeks turning slightly red as he laughs as well. He starts again. “Sorry, I mean, you got healed by Poppy after I ran you back. Your stomach might hurt a little, but nothing went wrong. You’re okay.” He smiles, calming Grian even further.

“After you passed out though, Poppy helped me take you back to your room. I found your makeup wipes! I hope I did a good job of that, and then I changed you out of your bloody clothes. Sorry I couldn't really do your wings, you’ll have to wash them in the shower…” He awkwardly scratches behind his neck while he talks. Wings? He tries to move them, then immediately cringes. He can feel dried blood and something gritty between the feathers. That's going to be a bitch to clean alone. Ugh.

“I–,” Scar starts and stops, readjusting his glasses. “I set you up out here so I could keep an eye on you last night. Healing non-powered people through a healing power could have weird effects so…” Grian looks around him and feels his cheeks warm slightly. Scar had basically set up his own version of a nest around the couch, including every blanket a pillow he owns. He tries not to be too embarrassed. It's a part of him and Scar seems to know what he needs, so he might as well let him do it.

“It's probably a good thing I did seeing as you had that nightmare!” He gives a tentative smile. “I tried to wake you up, but it wasn't working. You kept saying my name.” Grian cringes again. Should he tell him about it? Maybe if he actually talked about these dreams Scar could help him get to the bottom of it… Or it could make him upset because he's able to see Scar's family, while Scar himself is not. On the other claw, Scar did help him through a panic attack so maybe he owes him a little explanation…

“I–,” Grians voice cracks, causing him to have to clear his throat and drink some more water.

“You don't have to tell me, Birdy. Last night was a little scary so I get it.” Scar tries to wave away his explanation. But he doesn't understand. It's not about last night, not really at least

“I– I want to.” Grian holds his water with both hands, holding it in his lap. He doesn't watch Scar, but he takes his silence as acceptance. “I um. Had a nightmare.” Obviously. “You got like, really hurt.” He tries to remember more of the dream he can say, but the more he thinks of it the more it slips away like water through his fingers. “I just had to wait for help and you wanted to tell me something, but I never got to hear what it was.” He traces his claw around the rim of the glass. That's about the gist of it, at least.

“Was I at least hurt in a cool way?” Scar finally asks, shocking Grian.

“What?”

“Was I at least going down for being super heroic and cool or was I doing something dumb and lame that you’ll have to make up a fake story for at my totally real funeral?” He asks again with a completive face. Grian is stunned into silence, and then slowly, he starts to laugh. That's what he cares about? This is the guy he's crying over? Oh Void strike him down now!

He cackles until there are tears in his eyes, wiping them away with a shaky hand.

“You are ridiculous!” He giggles, finally trying to unwrap himself from the blankets. Scar, somehow, knows just what to say to make him feel a bit better.

“Why thank you! I think it's a valid question!” Scar smiles, helping him.

“It was a dragon. You were fighting a dragon.” Grian laughs, setting his glass down on the coffee table next to a small notebook. Finally, he's able to shift his legs over the side and plant them on the floor. He scoots off the edge, sitting shoulder to shoulder with Scar.

“I will always win against a dragon! Always have and always will!” He shouts triumphantly, flexing his arms until Grian slaps him lightly with a laugh, because ew.

“You've never fought a dragon, you would get killed so quick.” Grian laughs, but Scar doesn't laugh back.

“Oh ho! I certainly have. That Dragon didn't see what hit it! Mainly because it got them in the eye with an arrow, so they really couldn't see but I di–digress.” Grian feels his heart drop again. Again? Another backwards prophetic dream? What is going on?

“W–What happened?” He smiles, pretending his heart isn't starting to flutter again.

“Oh, an old shape-shifting villain attacked a few years ago.” Hes says flippantly, waving a hand around as if Grian doesn't know the end of this story. “They got a good hit on me at the end of the fight, but not before I got a killer shot. Made them retreat but I ended up in the infirmary so.” He shrugs trailing off. Grian is stunned into silence, staring blankly at the rug under them.

“But. You're okay?” He hears himself murmur. He's still staring, waiting for a response. Clearly Scar is okay, he's sitting right next to him. Breathing and talking and being fondly dumb as always. But there's something in him that's still so scared, and he just can't tamp it down. He just feels it. The heavy ball of anxiety in his chest that isn't going away until he hears Scar confirm it.

“I’m okay.” Grian flicks his eyes up to see his face. He's oddly serious now, compared to how he was. Like he knows the confirmation is something Grian just really needs at this moment. But still has an easy going smile on his face, making Grian feel calmer. “I’m okay, Birdy. It just left a few wicked scars, but. I’m just fine.” Grian feels him move his arm, making him look to the side to catch Scar lifting his shirt over his side. His breath hitches, recognizing those three huge scars over his side. The type of wound that could only be made by long, sharp talons. They disappear as Scar lets the shirt fall from his hand.

“Those weren't on the magazine Cub showed me…” He hears himself say, looking up at Scars face. It had only been one night, but now that Scar is wearing the glasses again Grian feels like it's hard to read his face. Before it was easy, but now. He doesn't know.

“Oh yeah, they edit out some of the bigger scars for…looks? I guess. I have a few pretty big ones on my back and left leg from when I was a kid and if they need to, those get taken out too.” He was speaking a little slower, like he was actually a little upset about it. Resigned, maybe. Grian chirps sharply, upset on his behalf.

“That's not fair! It's you!” He harrumphs, moving to stand up. Scar watches him as he does, continuing to sit where he is.

“It is, what it is!” He shrugged looking up at Grian.

Grian reaches his hands up to stretch his back, feeling a slight twinge of pain around his stomach, but it's easy to ignore. He cringes as he spreads his wings as well. His feathers shake, a few floating lazily to the ground. The dark color of the feather fills him with contempt, he chitters angrily at them.

His anger is interrupted by a stifled giggle coming from below him, causing him to tilt his head to the side to look. This causes more laughter to come from the Hero still on the ground. He was holding his stomach as he laughed.

“You are such a bird! You are so mad at your discolored feathers like a cat looking at their own reflection. Especially when you tilt your head like that too!” Scar laughs, and it makes Grian feel weird. He's being laughed at for his bird traits but not in the way he's used to. It's like in the way he laughs at Scar for the way he speaks or how he acts. It's not malicious, it's friendly. He's not used to that. Huh.

“I’d hope so…It's in my genes.” He lightly jokes back, unsure if he should joke back. Scar just barks another laugh, before placing his hands on the couch to help himself up. He stands next to Grian with a smile, reaching up and pulling a feather off the top of his head he didn't know was there.

“I think before we debrief about last night, you should take a bird bath.” He tosses the dark gray feather onto the table. The color was definitely coming off, leaving his wings more of a dark gray and dusty muted red than the black it used to be. Grian playfully sneers at the bird bath comment, but keeps his mouth shut knowing that it wouldn't be far from the truth.

“Yeah yeah I feel gross anyway.” He goes to step away from Scar, but finds as soon as he does, his stomach drops again. What? What's wrong? He looks around but sees nothing out of the ordinary. He steps back towards Scar, and he calms back down.

Oh. Come. On! He coos sadly and puts his face in his palms. He looks between his fingers up to Scar, only to see the Hero smiling sadly. He shakes his wings out, flicking them lightly trying to get rid of the feelings of gross. It wasn't working, and everytime he tried to step away, a scared cheep escapes his throat. But damn it he won’t say it. Luckily, Scar got it. Probably knew from the beginning.

“You know. It’ll probably be hard to reach your back to get rid of the dye. I could help you if you'd like?” He puts his hands on his hips, standing proudly as if he isn't offering Grian peace of mind. While this was annoying, it calms his bird brain to have Scar close. He knows the nightmare didn't actually happen (or well…maybe it did, maybe it didn't. He's still not sure…) but his brain isn't catching up with that. So for now, he wants Scar close so he can supposedly keep him safe. As if the Hero couldn't do that himself. But nobody ever said Avian instincts made sense.

“My room has a bigger shower, and I can pull a stool in there so we can both work on them together. Come on…” Grian leads them both into his room, noticing his practically stripped bed. All of his covers and pillows were taken to be part of the couch nest. He sighs, happy that Scar cared enough to do that, but also he has to put that back now.

He turns to Scar, stopping them both. He looked at what Scar was wearing, black loose shorts and an orange tank top. Grian himself realized he was wearing almost the same thing, just black and pink instead. Honestly, that'll work.

“I was gonna say we should change, but this'll work. C’mon.” Scar nods, following him into the bathroom, pulling a stool that he had found shoved in the back of his closet. He put it in the center of the walk in shower, turning the handle and waiting for it to get warm. It shouldn't be too hot for his wings, but at this point he would take any sort of water that would clean his wings.

He is purposefully avoided looking in the mirror, even if he heard Scar laughing at him for it.

When the water was warm enough he took the shower head off the holder, grabbing it and wetting his wings as deep as he could. The water was dripping down and swirling down the drain with a mix of charcoal gray, and his own blood. Once he thought it was sopping enough, he dropped the shower head, turning the water down.

He could still feel the grit between the feathers, so he sat down on the stool and instantly started pulling the feathers apart and swiping the dye away. Suddenly, he felt an extra set of hands in his wings from behind, causing him to chirp sharply. The hands disappeared immediately.

“Just me Birdy, don't peck me please.” Oh yeah Scar was here to help. He chirped back, understanding. He shifted his wings back into Scars hands, ignoring the bird joke, too enthralled with getting his wings clean. “Gotta clean a dirty birdy!” He heard Scar laugh from under his breath. Okay that was a bit far, so he smacked him in the face with his soaked wing.

“Pfft! Hey now! I’m all wet now!” Scar whined, spitting out a feather.

“Then don't be dumb.” Grian muttered, continuing to preen fully focused.

“You got my glasses wet! I can't see, hold on.” Scar stepped out of the shower, and Grian watched as he took his glasses off and put them on the counter before stepping back in. Grian averted his eyes, but still saw the orange glow persisting. Wasn't he talking with Pooppy about that last night? He couldn't really remember…

They continue to preen Grians wings, Scar surprisingly deft as he rinses some spots. The water still runs gray, so they just keep rinsing and rinsing. At some point Scar runs the water over his head, soaking his ear feathers, which he forgot was also dyed. He gave an annoyed chitter at first, thinking Scar was just being a jerk only to receive a laugh in response.

“Does your stomach hurt at all?” Scar asks, running the water over the middle of his back. It was a good question, it twinged a little, but otherwise he barely felt it

“Not really, just a little bit. Oli did a good job, even if I don't remember most of it.” He scratches at his ears, getting water under the feathers.

“You got got pretty good. I knew I should've gone with that guy instead.” Scar pulls a few feathers out and places them along the ledge in the shower stall. A little pile of them is growing. He hopes none of his flight feathers fall out, it's annoying to fly without them until they grow in again. He's been going through quite a bit of stress recently, hopefully that doesn't trigger a molt…

“He would have probably done the same to you though. I just couldn't grab my knife, and you didn't have any at all. I just got unlucky, and you might have as well.” He's not really concerned about what happened yesterday. Getting in trouble like that happens often enough and it's not the first time he's been in situations similar to that one. If not him, then Scar, and either way the situation sucked.

“Yeah…I’m sure you're right. What even happened anyways? I just opened the door and you were bleeding against the wall with that guy standing over you.” The water was finally starting to run a bit clearer.

He thinks back to the night before, remembering going through the door and seeing the safe in the corner. It didn't all start to go south until it was time to pay. Ugh, that guy really was a presumptuous ass.

“He said I didn't have enough money, and when I said I was going to ask you for more, he said he had a better idea. Him and his weird ass knife kink thing, stabbed me right before you came in.” He feels his cheeks heat up a bit, embarrassed that he needed to be saved. “I wasn't expecting it and he was much stronger, so I was caught off guard. And you know what happens from there.” He huffs, annoyed.

“I should've come in sooner. I wasn't, uh, thinking. When you didn't come out after the five minutes, I immediately broke in but it was a bit too late to help much.” He sighs, rinsing his wings one last time. The water runs clear. “That guy was easy to knock out though, didn't even fight.” He laughs tentatively.

“I should've been able to help myself.” He grumbles, standing up, shaking out his wings like a dog. Scar was still in the stall, shouting while he covered his face trying futilely to not get wet.

“Hey!” He laughs, pushing Grians shoulder hopping out of the stall.

“We are both already soaked, might as well.” Grian smiles back, stepping out next to him. He grabs a towel rubbing his head and ear feathers vigorously, not caring for how it'll turn out in the end. “Might want to get the blow dryer out, start doing the annoying part.” He drops the towel, pulling the stool out of the shower to sit back on it in front of the mirror.

He's much happier to see the red and white wings back, cooing happily under his breath. He thinks he sees Scar smile, but he's looking down so he can't really tell. He puts his own head down as Scar looks back up, not wanting to see his eyes out of impulse. He already knows what they look like, but it's a habit now.

“Don't think I didn't hear that by the way.” He takes hold of the blow dryer from the counter, plugging it in and turning it on. It's loud, but Scar just raises his voice over it. “Everyone needs help in this industry. That's the reason we are partners, you know, to help each other.”

“No need to be embarrassed.” Scar starts drying the back of his wings with a trained hand, again surprising Grian. It shouldn't at this point, he knows Scar has been friends with an Avian before. But it's just surprising to have someone who's not a hybrid, know so much.

“I’m not embarrassed.” He huffs, embarrassed and crossing his arms. “I just should've been able to do something myself. If you weren't there I would have had to just wait for an opening, after getting stabbed. I’ve done it before but still.”

“Just because you have before, doesn't mean you have to now.” He says kindly, as if he's repeating something he's been told before. Grian just huffs, curling in on himself a bit still upset at the situation. Scar sighs, moving on to the underside of his wings.

“You don't believe me?” He asks. It makes Grian finally look up at the mirror. He sees himself, wet hair and drooping aural feathers. Scar was intently drying his wings with a focused face looking down so Grian couldn't see his eyes. He suddenly looks up though, catching Grians eyes in the mirror, his are still orange. He feels like he should be shocked, but he's just…not. They both pause, watching each other. Scars face goes though several different emotions that Grian doesn't even bother to decipher.

He lands on contemplative, looking away from Grians eyes back to his wings. He doesn't put his head down so Grian sees them go back to honey brown, still thoughtful tilting his head back and forth. Then finally, he opens his mouth.

“I’m going to tell you a story. But it better not leave this room!” He flicks his eyes up again, smiling at Grian. “Or my image will be ruined!” He looks back down, continuing to dry the feathers. Grian smiles, totally planning on telling everyone who will listen depending on the story.

“When I was first starting out as a solo Hero, I was giving an undercover mission alone. I had never done one alone and was quite looking forward to it. Something about getting to the bottom of a money laundering case being run out of the casinos around here. I was supposed to start gambling and then work my way up to meet the owners and gain their trust blah blah blah.” Scars telling the story easily while drying his wings. Walking around him, focused but still talking. He walked to the front of Grian, their eyes catching again but it was not awkward. It's like it has always been this way.

“I got a bit too far, a bit too quick.” He admits. “I didn't realize that they were on to me from the beginning. And I was getting tired of being undercover. It had been months. It was fun in the beginning, but I missed being at the Hero Tower.”

“Why couldn't you be in the Hero Tower?” Grian asked. Couldn't he just come back for the night and continue in the morning?

“Doesn't work that way with those things. I had to stay in the casino hotel for the looks. This type of undercover we are doing right now is ex-ex-ten-u-ating circumstances.” He explains, stumbling slightly. He was speaking with his hands, moving the dryer around whichever way he felt inclined.

“But when the owners told me to meet them in a location far from the city, I thought I was close to being done.” He continues. “They would give me all the info I need ‘cause they ‘trust’ me and then I could go home. I was…lucky, in a way. I had just so happened to tell StarVoid the night before that I should be back the next day for good. I was excited, you know? Needless to say, that didn't happen.” He turns the blow dryer off, setting it on the counter. Without asking (he didn't need to) Scar starts straightening his feathers as Grian just listens intently to his story.

“It was a trap, and I should've known. The whole thing was sketchy, but I just wasn't thinking that way. So I followed them into a bunker where they jumped me. Tied me up, beat me around a bit trying to get information on who I was and what I was doing. Didn't give ‘em anything, which just made them more upset. ‘Swhere I got these!” He pauses his preening to show Grian his arm, pointing to the spotty scars running up his arm. He pulled it away before Grian could reach up to touch them. He couldn't even imagine what could have caused those.

“But it could've been worse! I was only down there for a night. StarVoid busted up in there and saved me. He was expecting me back that morning, like I told him, and when I wasn't he got worried.” He had a fond smile on his face. It's not often that Grian hears him talk about working with his fellow Heros.

“Could I have saved myself? Probably, given the opportunity, but I didn't have to. I was in rough shape when he got there, and he had to use a few D.U.S.T. contraptions to keep the thugs away as we dipped. They were all arrested later in the day and I’m okay. Have I been part of worse? Yes. But I am grateful for what Xisuma did.” He finished.

“Don't tell him I said that though.” He laughs nervously, looking at Grian in the mirror. “I was pretty loopy when I was getting healed, he probably got an ear full then.”

Grian looks away. He has stories pretty similar to those, except he never had someone to save him. Being a vigilante was technically illegal, so nobody would come help him if he got in trouble. Back when he had Pearl, Mumbo, and Impulse they had been new. They never truly got into anything super dangerous back then. Sure, they all had gotten a few scars, but kidnapping and torture wasn't something they had really faced. Boy, have those times changed.

He went from having three people to lean on, to only having himself. He was the only one he could truly rely on.

He appreciates Scars story, he does. But that isn't a magic fix all where he now will be fine asking and getting help. Honestly, he's surprised that he's even asking Scar for help on his wings. It's…different. Different, having help and being able to rely on someone again. And especially that being Scar, HotGuy. They used to hate each other. Times change quicker than he thinks.

“I– Okay.” Grian says quietly. Feeling like he's forcing the words out of his mouth. Whether it's embarrassment or something else he doesn't know. “Thank you for last night…”

“It's no problem!” Scar smiles. “And you are done!” Grian lifts his head, seeing Scar put up some truly inspiring jazz hands. He shifts his wings and as he expected, they are perfectly smooth and clean. He chirps happily, flapping them to feel some wind through the feathers.

“I know. I’m a miracle worker. No need to thank me citizen, I take all the thanks I need in a job well done.” Grian laughs as he bows to an invisible audience, talking into a fake camera. He smacks him with his wing, making him yelp.

“So dramatic.” He snarks, Scar spluttering having not expected the attack. He narrows his eyes at Grian through the mirror, making him laugh.

“You’ve gotta stop doing that. Feathers don't taste great, Birdy, and I can never guess when you are about to do that!” He walks towards the counter, Grian standing from his stool and opening his mouth to continue snarking back. But as he watches Scar move around him, a better word would be ‘limps’ to the counter. Grian watches confused as he picks up his glasses and puts them on. Then suddenly, he's standing straight again.

He lets his confusion be known, chirping at Scar to get his attention. But the Hero just looks at him and shrugs, unplugging the blow dryer and putting it away. And while Grian feels like he should just just drop it, since Scar is so nonchalant about it, something is poking in the back of his head.

Scar was doing that last night without his glasses on too, leaning on the cane more than someone who was faking it should. But what did the glasses have to do with anything?

Then like lighting, Grian is struck with the conversation he had overheard last night with Oli. Over use of a power could directly harm the user, or something like that. Suddenly, every time he's ever seen Scar with his glasses on make much, much more sense.

“You are using your power again, right now, aren't you?” Grian tries to ask as blase as possible. He picks up his chair, seeing from the corner of his eye Scar freeze as he's bending down to put the blow drying in the drawer. Neither speaks for a moment, Grian turning his back to Scar pretending to get the stool just right in the closet. He can feel tensions rising.

He isn't sure why he asked, it's not like he can or will do anything. Scar is his own man and probably knows what he's doing. Probably.

He turns back around as Scar stands up properly again, smoothing out invisible wrinkles on his clothes. Grian isn't expecting an answer anymore, he knows the answer. He thinks if he looks just close enough, he can see the faint orange glow from behind the glasses.

“I…am…” Scar stretches out, reaching up to scratch the back of his neck. He looks away from Grian, who just watches him warily. Why? What power would possibly be useful right now? And he wants to ask. He really does. But with the way that Scar is acting right now, he's certain he won't get an answer.

So, in the interest of not making things weird, he moves on. Maybe one day he’ll figure it out or Scar will trust him enough to tell him. But for right now, Grian changes the subject.

“I remember searching that guy last night…Did I… find anything?” He asks, stilted. He's grasping a bit at straws, wanting to relieve the tension but also knowing that this subject isn't fun either. But Scar takes the olive branch, a grateful look passing his face.

“Yeah you scared the crap out of me too! I left it in the front room.” He barks a laugh, walking past Grian out of the bathroom. Grian lets out a relieved breath, happy to move on. He follows after Scar and sees he is standing by his bedroom door, hesitating.

“We are both still soaked so I’ll go change and then be right back, okay?” He makes great points. Grian somehow forgot that both of them had soaked their shirts and shorts as well. He nods at Scar, watching as he peels out of the room. He hears his front door click shut and he goes to his closet to change as well.

He pulls out some white shorts and a blue tank top. As he changes he thinks about Scar and what Oli had said. That it was ‘dangerous’ to have a power on for a prolonged amount of time. And he knew that certain powers were just not meant to be kept on. Some of them were like switches and some were born with them on. Like Crow was basically born with his ‘on,’ but someone like Pearl had to actively be trying to keep it on.

It could cause permanent damage to leave it on, he remembered his mother telling Pearl. She was very young, and barely showed signs of even having the power, but she had been told and he had listened as well. He didn't have power, but even he knew it was important.

He shuffled out of his room into the kitchen, getting some water and an orange. He peeled it as he wondered what could possibly be so important of a power to keep it on all the time. Maybe it was some energy thing and if he turned it off for too long the city would lose power. Or maybe it was something to do with weather, and if he lets it go a tornado will hit. Or maybe even it's something to do with…a disability. Maybe it helps him in the opposite way, the more he uses it the more he can walk but the worse it'll get eventually.

He doesn't like that thought…He doesn't know Scar that well to know if he had some underlying disability. But he’d like to think that his fellow Heros do, and if he did have a disability then Xisuma or RedStone would have made something for him instead of letting him keep his power on for such long periods.

It seems unlikely that they would leave him to suffer like that. Even if he is the number one Hero now, the others don't seem to hold any grudge. Grian may not be a huge fan of Heros as a whole, but the lot that he has met have been some alright people. So he puts that theory on the shelf for now.

He hears the door open as he splits the orange in half. He sees Scar walk in, his shoulders a bit hunched and tense. He's now in dry clothes, his glasses still in place. When he turns his head to look at Grian and he immediately hands half of his split orange to Scar. He seems surprised, but then relaxes and takes it with a smile.

“Thanks, PeskyBird.” He fiddles with it, taking a slice and putting it in his mouth. Grian does the same, tossing it in the air and catching it with his mouth because he's cool like that. Scar seems to think so too as he cheers. They both laugh, sharing the orange (and maybe throwing a slice or two at each other trying to catch them. The slices that end up from the floor into the sink totally have nothing to do with that.)

“So, you said I did pull something off that guy. What was it? Because after you broke in, everything goes a bit hazy.” He sips his water, Scar lighting up at the mention of the item.

“Yes! I assume after the drug broke in his hand, you were looking for some more.” He shakes his head with a laugh. “Stubborn, you are! You were pulling away from me to search him. You could've gotten more hurt, you know!” He stares disappointedly at Grian, who feels distinctly like he's being scolded.

“Sorry, dad, I was just doing my job.” He waves a hand with a laugh, but Scar only huffs a smile back.

“Can't do that job if you get hurt, Birdy!” Says smiling, but serious. It makes Grian kind of actually feel bad for a second. But then Scar smiles happily again and the weight is lifted a bit ( he feels like he was taught some sort of lesson though.) “You did find something good though! I didn't look too closely at it last night, but I think it's a list of buyers! Come, look!” He and Grian rounded the corner of the bar to sit down on the couch.

It was a bit of a struggle, since it was still covered in blankets and pillows, but finally they smooshed themself into the oddly shaped nest. (Grian really tried his hardest to keep the happy chirps down, but the idea of having Scar in his nest made it practically impossible. Scar just leaned against his shoulder with a wide smile.)

Scar grabbed the book, opening it so they both could look inside. The writing was small, and messy, some parts not even legible at all. But Scar seemed to be right. The first page was a bunch of numbers and words he didn't know, chemicals? Maybe? But the second and third page had neat lines of names, dates, weights, and amounts paid.

So not only did they now know the names of people who had purchased the drugs, but when they bought them, how much they bought and how much they paid for it. Grian was shocked, and so was Scar. He twisted his head to the side to look at Grian, mouth agape.

“You, my feathered friend, almost died, but also just cracked this case wide open!” He laughed, pushing Grians shoulder with his. They both were excited, but Grian felt almost proud. He had finally done something right! As a Hero no less! Well, sidekick but who's counting.

They went back to the list, pointing out people who had bought more than once or who bought large amounts. The whole book was only about half way filled, the earliest date only being a few weeks ago. So they must go through these books quite often if this is only two weeks worth of people.

“That's crazy how many people are in this for only two weeks…We will have to look these people up in the archive.” Scar breathed, slowly thumbing the rest of the book to see if there were any more pages with writing. They weren't expecting there to be, the dates cut off literally yesterday, when they had taken it. So they had to be up to date.

But as Scar got to the last ten pages or so the writing picked back up again. They paused, skimming the writing again, before Grian felt his heart drop at what was written. There, a few months ago, was a name that he recognized. The name being one ‘77.’

What was a good guy villain doing buying these drugs? Not only that but power enhancing drugs when he doesn't even have a power? He doesn't want to underestimate a villain, especially one that he truly doesn't know all that well. But he has met up with the guy several times and on average, the creeper hybrid seemed more socially awkward than the drug dealer type.

He's not saying it's impossible, but the last time he met with 77 it was maybe three months ago. And they had just chilled over by Tumble river and shit talked the Hero Association. 77 probably wouldn't be too happy with him right now actually, turning into a Hero. But still, he seemed like a nice guy.

While he was thinking, he felt Scar take an unsteady breath. Stuttering, as he flipped the pages almost frantically as he scanned them. He leaned off of Grian and over the coffee table, taking the book with him. Grian, confused, followed him. Certainly a villain, to him, buying drugs would be quite normal. So why the panicked reaction?

“Did you see what I saw?” He suddenly asked, breathy.

“77?” He hesitantly asked? Surely it was just a list of villains and vigilantes who bought the stuff. Maybe there were some dangerous villains getting a hold of it? That would suck. He knows 77 must be up to something, but he would trust the villain to not be doing anything to evil with it. Other villains? Not so much.

“No. Well, yes. But look.” He lifted his head with a desperate look. Grians wings twitched at the look, feeling unnerved. He leaned over to look back at the book. But all the names Scar pointed to, he didn't recognize.

“Are those other villains that I don't know?” He asked, trying to sound not so confused.

“No, Grian.” He reached one hand up and pulled his glasses into his hair. His eyes burned orange as he looked at him. “These are the names of other Heros.”

Chapter Text

“What?” Grian heard himself ask, having to shake himself to stop looking in Scars eyes. He gently took the book out of Scar's hand to bring it closer to his face, reading the names over again.

He didn't recognize any of the names he was seeing, (well, other than 77. But he's pretty sure that's really not who Scar is talking about.) all of them were people he couldn't put a face to. No ‘Tek’ or ‘Poppy’ or ‘StarVoid.’ If these people were Heros, then only Scar would be able to point them out to him.

“Those are names of Heros, non-ranking Heros, but still Heros. And there are even a few for people who just work here too, look–” He points to a name lower on the list towards the bottom. “That's the front desk lady, she has low level mind reading powers…And here,” He points to a higher name, “this is the Hero Melody, she can do a siren song but as long as you put ear plugs in, you're good.”

“What are Heros and Association workers doing buying drugs like this? To be stronger in battle?” Grian hands the book back, moving to stand as Scar snaps it shut.

“I don't know…Maybe we should go to the archives. Find someone who bought some drugs then go and interrogate them.” Scar stands with him, fiddling with the book. Grian studies his face, he seems genuinely concerned about this information.

Grian thinks he should be too, since he's technically a Hero and all. But…something tells him that it's not too shocking. Hell, he was more shocked to see a villain's name than a Heros. But Scar seems upset, his eyebrows pinched and eyes a little glassy. He feels his heart sink a bit, this must really be worrying him.

“What if we talked to Cub? Asked him if there's something the Counsi–”

“No.” Scar cuts him off. “We can't ask him about findings of the mission because he’s not permitted.” He huffs, putting the book into his pocket.

“Okay well then…I don't think a random person that buys these drugs will be very willing to help us. Did you see anyone in there that you know? Like, a civilian?” Grian asks, trying to come up with a solution. There's an idea forming in his head, but he wasn't too sure Scar would like it all that much.

“I…don't talk to anybody outside of the Tower. Other than reporters I guess… Do you?” Scar crosses his arms, looking away from Grian as if embarrassed by the fact he has no non-Hero friends.

And to be fair, Grian doesn't really either. Yes, he has met a lot of people on the streets but he’d hardly call the villains that tolerated him ‘friends’. And now that he is thinking about it, villains are all he really got to know anyway. It's the best they've got.

“Um. Kinda?” Grian shrugged. Scar looked back to him, his orange eyes looking a bit relieved.

“I do happen to know someone on that list, we could go out and ask him?” He decided he wouldn't tell Scar the truth until they were well on their way. He knows Scar would try and talk him out of it and this is the only solution Grian can think of. Scars face lights up, throwing his hands up with a laugh.

“Well why didn't you say so! Let's get dressed and head on out then!” He walked forward and pulled Grian into a quick hug. Though surprised, he melted into it before Scar tried to let go. But…he didn't want to yet. He still wanted to keep Scar close, not quite just over everything that happened earlier.

He held him impossibly tighter, and Scar let him, starting to sway slowly. They waited for Grians instincts to go down, until he himself started to let go. His wings twitched a bit, and his heart felt a little heavy, but they had things to do. Plus, he would see him in literally a few minutes. He, and his birdy instincts, will live without Scar for a while.

He lets go with a sad chirp, Scar reaching up and ruffling his hair. It forced a laugh from him, playfully slapping his hands away. He smiled, and turned around walking out the front door.

For the second time today, the Hero left to go change and Grian did the same. He chose to leave out the heavier makeup, just doing light eyeliner and painting a few hearts under his eyes. He dressed in his typical, white CuteGuy uniform.

He met Scar right outside his door, both fully equipped with their bows and quivers. (Yeah Grian knew who he was meeting up with, but that didn't mean he trusted them.)

They both rode the elevator down, passing the front desk lady quickly and leaving out the back like last time. Grian told Scar that his bike was not needed and that they could just walk. He calculated that it was probably about a ten minute walk from the Hero Tower to the base he was going to. He had only been there a few times, and never walked from the Tower to there, but it was too far.

“So, who's your civilian friend?” Scar asked as they passed some girls walking down the sidewalk (they stared and giggled as HotGuy and him walked by.)

“Oh, just someone I met not that long ago…” He avoids the question, hoping to make it a bit longer before telling the truth.

“And they buy drugs? Did you know?” Scar is snooping and he knows it. Grian rolls his eyes, of course the pure Hero would suspect the vigilante of being friends with druggies. He was, but it's not cool to stereotype.

“No, I didn't know he buys MooPop. But I also never asked either. Take a left up here.” They were walking the opposite way from Sahara Park, and away from the Hero Tower. They were still in the city center though. They turned left, leaning them down a cleaned up looking alleyway.

“That's the name? MooPop?” He speaks as he's testing the word in his mouth.

“Yep. It's been on the streets for a while, but it's very different now.” Grian stopped them in front of a green door. The paint was chipping, making it look like a creeper face if you squinted. It made Grian smile a little.

“Come on in!” Grian says, walking over and just opening the door. He hears Scar splutter, shocked Grian just let himself in. He shuffles to keep up with him, pulling his bow off his shoulder as he walks through the door into the relatively well lit dining room and kitchen. It was quite a small area, but the space was used well.

There was a nice looking oak table with a few place mats and a vase of flowers on top. Above was a low hanging stained glass chandelier lighting the flowers nicely. The kitchen had a full fridge and other amenities. There were a few windows facing the street, one way so they could see out and nobody could see in.

Oh. And also there was a creeper hybrid saying in the center, his metal arm prosthetic frozen with a spoonful of cereal halfway to his mouth.

Everyone seemed to freeze, Scar taking a gasp in when he saw him. And Grian was a little shocked to see the man already in the room. Sure he had expected to see him soon since he practically stormed into his house, but being right in the kitchen is kind of funny.

Grian regained his thoughts first, smiling wide and shifting away from the door.

“Hey 77. Sorry for dropping in unannounced! I uh–” Him speaking must have restarted the other two's brains as they both sprung into action. Scar knocked an arrow, pointing it straight at the villain, while said villain threw his bowl on the counter and grabbed some sort of ray gun off his belt. And once again, everything froze. Grian just sighed, drama queens.

“G, why have you brought a Hero to my base?” 77 asked slowly, readjusting his grip around his gun. He was dressed in his typical white lab coat, oddly colored stains around the cuffs and hem. Shirtless underneath with dark cuffed jeans as well. His green tinted fur looked ungroomed, like he had just rolled out of bed.

“Why have you brought me to a villain's base?” Scar mumbled, shifting his eyes from 77 to Grian. To be fair, he knew both people here would not be happy about this idea. Which is why he didn't say anything. Better to ask forgiveness than permission!

Grian puts himself between then, both of their weapons having to go through him before reaching the other. He notices Scar relaxing his taught bow string, pointing it just slightly away from him. He keeps his eyes looking past him though, staring through him at 77.

“Put your weapons down, we are here on business.” He sighed, both narrowed their eyes not taking their eyes off each other. Neither put the weapons down, much to Grians annoyance. Knowing they both won't listen, he steps over to the table, pulling out a chair and taking a relaxed seat.

“G. I trusted you with coming here if you needed help, or were dying. Not to bring Heros around.” Scar tightens his grip, pulling the sting of his bow back even further.

“Well, yes, and now I need help.” He explains.

“I don't help Heros, G.”

“Listen. I didn't didn't know this was happening either. But, let us just ask you some questions, and we will just go.” HotGuy says, trying to do damage control. He hears 77 growl lowly when HotGuy speaks, warning him to shut up.

“I. Don't. Help. Heroes.” Okay this was actually getting a bit out of hand. To be honest he kind of thought 77 would listen to him more than he is. They were at a stand still. Both HotGuy and 77 were watching each other intently while Grian slumped in his chair.

“Well then don't help him, help me. I’m new so technically I’m not a full blown Hero.” Grian reasoned. 77 flicked his eyes over to him, he looked very annoyed with him. So he smiled kindly back, hoping to not get shot today.

He hesitated, looking between Grian and HotGuy suspiciously.

“We just have a few questions 77, nothing personal and I will make sure HotGuy never comes back here.” One of 77s goat ears flicked, he tilted his head and the light reflected off one of his polished horns. He grimaces, but slowly lowered his gun, but he didn't put it down all the way.

“He puts his away too.”

“Not gonna happen, villain.” HotGuy sneered. 77 moved to bring his gun back up, opening his mouth to speak before Grian beat him to it.

“Stop being an ass, put it away.” Grian lifted his hand to study his nails. He didn't put his gloves on today, he should really repaint them.

“An ass! He’s literally a killer Gr- CuteGuy!” He protests, actually turning his head to look at Grian. He looks just as annoyed as 77, a hard frown settled on his face. Oh, great, good to know he can piss off both Heros and villains all in one fell swoop.

“I knew you wouldn't come here if I told you who it was. I trust him, so trust me!” Now Grian is in the seat of talking HotGuy down. His wings flutter a bit, squished behind him in the chair. He lets his hand fall into his lap, fiddling with his fingers nervously.

“Trust you? I trust you not him .” As if remembering the room he was in, he suddenly turns back to 77. At some point while they were…arguing…77 had put his gun away (onto his belt, still within arms reach) and was pouring himself a cup of coffee while watching them.

“Are you done?” He grabs a second mug off the counter as he speaks.

“Ha!” Grian exclaimed, shocked that the villain was getting bored of their fight. He feels himself relax a bit, the tensions broken. Or at least, broken for him and 77 and 77 to HotGuy. Scar made a sound similar to that of a deflating balloon. His bow drooped slightly, embarrassed at being ignored in that way. Grian was just very amused. He missed talking to 77.

“Drop the bow, Einzeller, Birdy has questions to ask me.” 77 walks close and scoots around the arrow pointed at him and takes a seat at the table with Grian. He sets his cup down, and in front of Grian he sets a second cup catching him a bit off guard. He smiles when he looks inside, it's a cup of black tea, just how he likes it.

Scar slowly drops the bow, suspiciously looking at the cup 77 had handed him. Grian sighs, watching in through his glasses as he takes a sip. HotGuy keeps a hand on his bow and steps behind Grian, refusing to sit. He rolls his eyes, looking across the table to 77.

“Now that introductions are over,” Grian smiles, “how have you been?”

Scar scoffs from behind him, but stays quiet. 77 smiles back, his bionic red eye adjusting and wavering in color as he studies over Grian.

“Oh not too bad, Vogel. The usual really. You know,” He shifts to look at Scar, “evil things.”

He feels Scar tense behind him, barely keeping it together as Grian has a similar reaction. Except for him, he wants to laugh so bad, but he can't. Because if he does then Scar will be mad and might leave in embarrassment.

“Oh, sounds like fun.” He squeaks, noticing that 77 also looks like he wants to laugh.

“How about you? I saw you are some big shot Hero now?” He leans back in his seat, the chair squeaking as he crosses his arms with a smile.

“You know how things go. Promotions and all that…” He waves away and they both bark a laugh. Scar stays silent, huffing as they shoot the shit.

It's always fun to rile up Scar, but after Grian calms his laughing down he knows they have to actually ask 77 some questions. Unfortunately it's his job now or whatever. Maybe they could meet up as…well not friends per say but he would like to meet him in the streets again, just to talk.

He sighs deeply, lacing his fingers over the table. He leans forward, addressing 77 with a more serious tone moving the investigation on.

“Can I ask you something?” He starts. 77 raises an eyebrow, looking both him and Scar up and down. He lingers on Scar before rolling his eyes with a sigh.

“I’ll answer you if I like the question, but if I don't I won't.” He frowns and narrows his eyes.

“Fair enough. What do you know about MooPop?” Grian says, jumping right into it.

“New drug of choice on the streets. Well, not new, but it's the choice now. What do you want to know?” He speaks a little stinted, like he's surprised at the question itself.

“I remember coming in contact with it a few times, but uhh.” He hesitates, reaching behind himself holding his hand out. When nothing happens, he looks up to catch Scars face, “book?” He chirps, waiting for Scar to stop being stubborn. He watches as an incredulous look passes his face before he gives in, reaching into his pocket and retrieving the small book of names.

“Thanks!” He smiles, looking back to 77 who had a small smile as well.

“Trained KleinerKerl well huh?” Grian barks a laugh. That's the second person who said something about how well he ‘trained’ HotGuy. He never has, but it's funny people think he did. Maybe he does have Scar wrapped around his claw, just a little bit. That's not his fault! He never tried to, if it's true then it was all Scars doing.

“Maybe.” He feels Scars confusion wafting behind him. It makes him smile even harder. “We found this the other day,” pivoting off of Scar, “and it has some interesting names in it. Interesting names, like yours.” He opens the book to the page with 77s name on it, before passing it over to him. Scar again, makes a sound of protest. While 77 takes the book to look it over, he raises his head to look at HotGuy.

He chirps quietly, blinking slowly up at him. He's starting to kind of feel bad for dragging Scar to this knowing that he's wary of 77. He knows Scar trusts him, and he lied to him. Scar looks down at him and just stares for a second. But after a moment, he sighs. Reaching his hand over and lighty petting Grians wings. Good, so he wasn't too mad.

“Congratulations.” 77 grumbled with a smirk. Grian narrowed his eyes, not understanding what he meant. Before he could ask though, 77 threw the book back across the table. “What are you asking, my name is there, yes.”

“77. I know you and I know you don't have a power. So why did you buy MooPop?” Grian takes the book back, giving it to Scar. 77 just tilts his head at the question, like he was confused at it.

“Because I wanted to see what it was made of?”

“Oh so you want to cash in then huh?” Scar interjects, accusatory. And if Grian is honest, it's what he's thinking too. “You want to learn how to make it and sell it!”

“I can do much worse things to the public than sell addictive drugs, HotGuy. Besides, this drug kills people. There is no fun in that.” He says flippantly, as if he doesn't send a small shiver up his back. Scar leans in closer, not appeased by his answer.

“Killing people?” Grian hears himself breathe. They weren't told it was that kind of drug. Then again they weren't told much of anything at all. 77 just tilts his head, his eye adjusting again.

“Yes. It's well known to be dangerous, but very addictive. It's not even overdosing, it's just random.” He speaks as if it's common knowledge, something that they should already know. Grian looks up to Scar, who looks contemplative, but silent. Just standing and watching 77 for any sense that he's lying to them.

“I think we are on a different page here…” 77 suddenly speaks after their moment of silence. He is now the one looking confused. “What do you know about MooPop?” He asks, not unkindly.

“Well…um.” He's not sure what he can say. While he trusts 77 enough, he also doesn't want to have to answer to StarVoid or the council or something. He doesn't know the punishment for collusion with a villain but it's probably not great. And while he knows that end game is skipping town anyways, he would rather skip jail time.

Scar looks similarly at odds with himself. Torn between getting information and talking with a villain, or figuring it all out himself. But Grian knows that this is their best shot. They have to assume that the whole point of this mission is to stop these drugs from killing people, and 77 knows more than they do about it.

“It’s worth a shot, HotGuy.” Grian murmurs up at him, making him tilt his head to look at him. He looks slightly incredulous.

“He's a villain! He could be lying, Birdy.” Scar argues, insisting that it's a bad idea.

“He is our best bet, just. Trust me.” He smiles at Scars small scoff. But he stays quiet so Grian has won.

“We were just told to just get to the bottom of it.” He addresses 77 again. “That was about it. Catch some dealers and get information on what was going on.” He's taking a bit of leeway with what they were actually told but 77 won’t know. Probably.

“Oh Vogel , it's so much deeper than that. Have you two not been looking at the media surrounding it? It's really dangerous stuff. Well, it is now. Back when you saw it G it was just a normal drug. But recently it's killing people at higher and higher rates. I've been trying to find out why…”

“So…you are a good guy?” Scar asks.

“I wouldn't go that far, Einzeller.” He growls, successfully shutting HotGuy up.

“How dangerous is it?” Grian asks, interested now in what was going on.

“Well, it's targeting people with powers I’ve found.” Now that's interesting.

“What do you mean?” He asks.

“Well, if someone powerless took it, they would just feel high. But if you have a power, it ups it.” He explains, taking sips of his coffee like it's just a nice lunch conversation. “You’ve had to have fought some people hopped up, Mr. Hero.” He looks over his cup at HotGuy, who is startled a bit at being addressed.

“I– I don't know. Maybe? If someone is more powerful than they used to be, I wouldn't know. I only fight people once.” He humble-brags, but it makes sense. He wouldn't know unless he met the same person twice, and he also typically fights the big villains anyway. Villains who are powerful enough to not need some drug. 77 seems to take the statement as it is, shrugging and setting his drink back down.

“The stuff is meant to be diluted when you take it, I've found. And there's been a huge spike recently of powered people overdosing or just dying. And I want to know why.” Scar must have a skeptical look on his face, because when 77 looks at him, he scoffs.

“Listen, I’m a villain. But I can't terrorize people, if there's no people to terrorize. I know I’m a villain but I’m not a bad guy.” He huffs, rolling his eyes.

Grian sips his tea, thinking about the information they were just given. So, not only were they not given all the info they should have been, but it's much deeper than they were expecting it to be. It's actually killing people, powered people, at alarming rates. Why? Why would somebody make a drug targeting powered people?

And, why were they not informed? That seems like a pretty big thing going on and Scar and Grian had no clue. Grian was on the streets and didn't even catch up with this.

“How recently did this all start?” He asks.

“The past few months it's been getting much more aggressive. But I noticed it changing a year or so ago.” He finishes his coffee.

So, he was busy not only searching for his family, but trying to get looked at by the Hero Association. Trying to get an audition to get hired as a Hero so he can look harder and more efficiently. He feels a little bad knowing that maybe he could have helped some people when he was a vigilante, if he wasn't so wrapped up in himself.

“What else do you know? If you've been looking into it too, maybe we can help each other.” Grian suggests, if only to relieve a little misplaced guilt. Scar shuffles, clearly not liking the idea too much.

“I told you most of what I know. It's clear your side didn't, so it's more than you had before.” He stands and takes his mug to the sink, rinsing it out.

“You have to know something more.” Grian reasons. “You bought some, why?”

77 pauses a bit, his back facing them as he washes the mug. He sighs as he dries it and sets it on the side of the sink. When he turns back to face them he leans against the counter crossing his arms.

“I like you Vogel , but that's all I’m going to help you with. I can't be seen with you lot, my reputation would be in ruins.” He waves his bionic arm as he speaks.

“Basically you want to know what's in it for you?” Grian huffs, watching the smirk spread on his face.

“Precisely.”

“Oh come on!” He chirps, wings twitching annoyed. 77 just laughs lowly.

“Come on, see it from my side. I can't just go around helping Heroes.”

“Well, how about that?” Scar suddenly speaks up, confusing both Grian and 77.

“How about what?” 77 frowns.

“You don't want your reputation ruined. But if you do find a cure for this drug then how would you tell people? They would know you did it.” Scar points out, stunning them both.

“Well, I–”

“But if you help us, then maybe, the number one Hero might say something about how the great 77 was a huge obstacle. And maybe he would even throw in something about how scary 77 is in person, you know. For the looks.” He smiles blindingly, charming his way as he speaks.

77 is taken aback, mouth forming a little ‘o’ as he thinks about it. Grian will admit, HotGuy has a point. And he's quite shocked Scar of all people was the one to make it. After a few moments of silent deliberation, 77 growls and narrows his eyes at Scar. He looks at them both, hesitating on their arms before looking at Grian in the eyes.

“Fine! Deal, just leave me out of the Hero business.” He rolls his eyes at them “I can show you what I’ve found in my samples I bought, but those bracelets come off.” He points a metal finger to Grians arm. Both Grian and Scar look at their wrists, the black bands wrapped tightly around them.

“Why?” Grian asked, pulling at it slightly. Scar reached a hand down, stopping him from fiddling with it.

“They can't come off, or someone will come after us. They stay on.” Scar countered with a serious look.

“So there's a tracker. I don't want other Heros to show up here.” 77 stated smartly. Huh. Grian never thought of it that way. Scar scoffed, letting go of Grians arm crossing his own across his chest.

“They only activate if we are dying, they are dormant until then. I will concede that you…know more than we do about this drug. So I give you Heros Honor that once we leave here, nobody will ever come back.” Scar reluctantly speaks, surprining Grian a little. How mature of him.

77 pauses to think for a second, narrowing his eye to watch Scar. Grian just stays quiet as they have their little moment. He'd rather just get this over with, he understands why there's some animosity here. A Villain and a Hero in the same room, what will they do? There is no trust from either side. Grian just has the special background of being a middle man, knowing both sides.

Luckily, they seem to have come to an agreement on going forward. 77 stands up, reaching his hand out to HotGuy for him to shake, which he does with little hesitance. Like a true Hero, Grian supposes.

“Alright, but if you go back on your word, there will be hell to pay.” 77 grumbles, releasing his hand. Scar just nods, face set in a hard line. Grian is honestly impressed . He turns to address Grian. “I’m doing this cause I’d like to trust you G. Don't betray that.”

He swallows thickly, nodding as well. This wasn't supposed to be some trust exercise, he just thought it would be an easy way to answer some questions. Ugh, being a Hero sucks.

He stands up, 77 waving them through a door leading to the rest of his house. It's quite cramped, 77 having to duck through a few doorways. He leads them past a few bedrooms, the doors propped open and when he looks in they are perfectly set, as if they haven't been touched in years.

They go into an office type room, a desk in the corner piled with papers and D.U.S.T. The walls were lined with bookshelves and metal contraptions that Grian didn't even want to try and mess with. Mumbo used to get so mad if he touched his D.U.S.T. machines, so he could only imagine what 77 would do.

Scar was looking around as well, he had finally put his bow back around his shoulder and was just glancing around the room. 77 made a beeline for a bookshelf right next to the desk, and like typical villain fashion, he pulled a book out and soft clicking sounds erupted around the room. Scar jumped, scanning the room for danger as Grian just watched at the bookshelf suddenly pulled back and then to the side, completely pulling it from view.

77 didn't even wait for them to express any sort of awe before he walked down the now revealed staircase. Grian followed immediately, noticing Scar's hesitance but not paying it any mind. The staircase was winding, going down and down. Grian has to pull his wings in close as the deceased, lest they scrape against the walls.

He can hear Scar steps behind him, so he knows that the Hero followed him whether he thought it was safe or not.

As they went down, sooner rather than later, it opened up into a laboratory looking area. It was huge, about the size of a buried warehouse. What was it with these people and having huge ass basements? It was starting to piss Grian off for literally no reason other than how unreasonable it was.

They had to walk down a few more spirals before they finally touched to the bottom. He could see several huge builds dotted around the space, some half completed and others looking almost done. They were clearly large D.U.S.T. machines, but otherwise Grian had no idea what he was looking at. One of them had like, pistons? And definitely observers. Maybe. He decided to look somewhere else at risk of a headache if he tried any harder.

There were doors along a few of the walls (suggesting that this place was bigger than it looked), but they were closed. Lining the furthest wall from them was ceiling to floor shelves holding boxes and boxes of Grian would assume to be building materials and old projects.

Looking at Scar, he was doing much the same as him. Just in awe of the amount of things in the huge space. 77 seemed smug, like he knew they would be shocked. It made Grian smile at him, the smarmy bastard.

77 led them through the weaving path of workbenches until they made it to the center of it all. A big ‘u’ shaped workstation was fashioned with several machines, piles of D.U.S.T. and what looks to be blueprints scattered about. 77 led them into the center, a few microscopes lay about with a few half empty vials of the milky liquid Grian had seen the drug dealer have.

77 pulled a rolling chair over and sat down in front of the microscope, taking a look. After a moment he sighed, sitting back and taking a pen to write on a paper next to him.

“As you can see I have actually purchased from several different people to get these vials.” He spun around to face Grian and Scar, folding his hands over each other. “I took care to go back to the same people every month and test what should be the same drug against the others.”

“And what did you find?” Grian steps forward as 77 scoots out of his way.

“You can look; that one’s actually from the guy you got the book from.” He says, grabbing a stack of papers and shuffling through them.

“How would you know who we got it from?” Scar asks, suspicious for no reason.

“Because it's the only person I bought from yesterday? And my name is in the book. With the date. And now you have the book. With my name. And date.” He explains slowly. Grian watches as Scars cheeks go a little pink at the call out. He huffs a laugh, looking away to the microscope.

Grian looks, but honestly he doesn't really know what he's looking at. It looks like a liquid, but with little purple dots running through it. It's not magnified enough to see more than that though. He leans back, gesturing for Scar to look next. He, too, steps up and leans down to look.

“What are we looking at?” Grian asks, looking at the other vials on the desk.

“It's easier to show you this.” He replies, seemingly finding what he was searching for. Pulling out several sheets of paper and spreading them on the workspace next to him. Both Grian and Scar walk over and see that it looks to be a spread of print out from what they were just looking at. Close ups of the different vials, all labeled at the top with dates and where he got them.

They pursued the pictures for a good moment, Grian pursing his lips and nodding like he knew what he was looking at. Scar, doing much the same, kept wandering his eyes over to Grian as if he would be able to help. Finally after a painful amount of fumbling to understand what they were looking at or for, 77 loudly sighs.

“You two should not be number one Heros.” He wheels up the first picture he laid out.

“Hey–!” Scar shouts, offended.

“Look here,” 77 ignores him, which Grian smiles at. He looks over, pulling Scar over with him. “This was taken from a guy over by the south side of Tumble river two weeks ago, but this one,” he points to the picture next to it, “I got a few days ago from the same guy and look.” Comparing the two, Grian notices that the newer one has quite a bit more of the little purple dots he saw before.

“The little dots?” He remarks, looking to 77.

“Yup! And look at this one.” He takes them to a set of four photos. Just like the others, it starts off with little of the dots, but the most recent has a considerable amount more. Like, a crazy amount more.

“This one was from three months ago, when I realized there was something fishy going on. And that one,” He points to the one Grian and Scar are still looking at, “is from yesterday.” Grian picks the page up, holding it closer as he looks at the little dots.

“What are they?” He hands the paper to Scar for him to look at closer as well.

“I’m…not quite sure.” He wheels back over to the microscope, taking another look inside. “I've had some luck in separating the purple parts from the liquid around it. But when I do that, it no longer behaves the same way.” He picks up his pen and writes something down without looking up.

“Hey Doc!” Both Scar and Grian flinch at hearing the new voice. Snapping to look where it came from, Scar went as far to pull his bow off of his shoulder. From the door directly in front of them, 50 feet away or so, a wolf hybrid busts down the door excitedly bounding in. Grian thinks he hears the pen that was in his hand snap.

“Hey Doc, look at what Gem–!” They suddenly stop in their tracks, looking up and seeing the Heros. He's dressed in a red plaid button up and dark jeans with black suspenders holding them up. Grian can see his long hair pulled into a braid pulled over his shoulder.

His brown tail stops wagging and sags between his legs as his pointed fluffy ears fall. His sunglasses hide his eyes, much like HotGuy. He also has two redstone D.U.S.T. prosthetics like 77s, his arm and right leg.

Everyone stays still, Grian watching both 77 and the newcomer warily. He looks up slowly from his microscope, pinching the bridge of his nose before looking at the wolfman.

“Grim, what did I–”

“Doc, did you see Rens–!” Another person came through the door, a fawn hybrid that Grian vaguely recognized. He was wearing a green dress with a little brown apron overalls on top. Long antlers sprouted from the red wavy hair, little bits and bob hanging from the ends. She also stopped when she saw the Heros, a few steps behind the wolf hybrid.

Grian takes a slow step closer to Scar, mostly because he's just a little worried for what 77 is about to go. As he runs his hand down his face, growling a bit before starting to walk around the workbench. But before he could get around to the side, all hell broke loose for the second time that day.

“Heros! 77, run!” The wolf yells. He then growls while dropping into a sprint at Grian. Surprised and shocked, Grian feels rooted in place as the wolf, Grim, catapults himself over the bench and tackles Grian. He yelps on the way down, pulling his hands up to cover his face. He brings his leg up, ready to kick in his favorite place to kick, when the weight is suddenly lifted off him.

He opens his eyes and sees Scar poised with an arrow nocked facing the fawn. He stood close to him, as if he was protecting him from another attack. Scar flicks his eyes down to him and sees that he's now free from his impromptu brawl. Looking back to the fawn, seeing that she has not moved at all, he reluctantly brings his bow back down.

Scar is at his side immediately, crouched down and grabbing his arm. He looks pissed, holding his bow with his other hand as well as the arrow, scanning the room around. Grian feels much the same, getting tackled out of nowhere and some dude he doesn't know. He places a hand by his side, Scar helping him sit up.

He turns his head, ready to fight back, but feels himself start laughing at the scene in front of him.

77 was standing at his full height, somewhere around 8 feet, holding up the wolf hybrid by the scruff of his neck. The man had his arms and legs pulled up with his tail between his legs as the villain started down at him with a sneer.

“Don't maul my guests please.” He growled, the wolf's ears folding even further down. He had a strained smile on his face, like he knew that he wasn't actually in trouble.

“Sorry dude, did know they were uh…” He looked down at Grian and Scar. “um– guests?”

77 dropped him without warning, the wolf falling onto the floor with a yip. He jumps right back up, pulling on 77s lab coat to help him. 77, sighs and looks up at the ceiling as if asking a higher power to help him.

“You let your boyfriend jump people often?” Scar huffs, actually helping Grian to his feet.

“He's not–”

“Sorry! I thought we were being invaded! Are you guys going corrupt and lookin’ for a little Ren Diggity Dog action?” He laughs, snapping his suspenders.

Grian chitters angrily at the dog, swiping unseen dirt off of his outfit. It makes Scar huff a laugh as the wolf, Ren, rears back. He whines sadly, tuning to look at 77 with what Grian can only assume is puppy eyes.

“You deserved that, Grim.” 77 says, patting his head.

“No need to hide his name now! He went and blabbed it to the whole Hero Association now, Ren!” The fawn hybrid shouted, crossing her arms.

“Says you! You also said his and my name, Gem!” Ren huffs back, 77- Doc looks like he would rather be anywhere else.

“Whatever… Long time no see Pinky!” She said, looking directly at Grian. He tilts his head to the side, confused. She looks familiar but…where…oh!

“The audition!” He snaps with a smile. She smiles back, nodding happily.

“I see you made it then? How about Dumb and Dumber?” She starts walking around the workbench to actually talk with him.

“They actually made it too, xB and Keralis.” He rolls his eyes.

“Do all of you just give out real names whenever?” Doc grumbles, flopping down in his chair facepalming.

“She already knew!” He stammers, seeing both Scar and Doc disappointed looks. Gem and Ren laugh as his cheeks go pink. “Well what about you? You were auditioning to be a Hero and now here you are with 77 of all people!”

“I changed career paths?” She giggled with a shrug. He rolls his eyes, turning to see Scar. If he looked close enough, Scar seemed out of his depth. He kept looking from person to person, holding his bow tightly. His other hand was opening and closing at his side as he kept a straight posture.

From his perspective, Grian could see why he might be nervous. They are in a room full of villains, two of them Grian apparently knows, and they are very deep underground with almost no way of escape.

So he steps next to him, forcing his wing behind his back. Scar looks down at him, but he's not looking. He just stays close for his sake, but continues to watch the villain. He thinks he feels Scar relax a little, but he could be imagining things.

“What are you guys doing here? Coming to the dark side?” She sides next to Doc, leaning against the desk and fixing her pretty green dress. It looked like she had embroidered flowers on it now that he sees it closer.

“You wish. 77 is helping us with something.” Both Ren and Gem snap their heads to look at the creeper hybrid with wide eyes. Was he not supposed to tell them that? Oops…

“They were just leaving, actually.” He hisses and Grian feels himself deflate. But they didn't get all the information that they wanted. Grian goes to protest, but Doc is already herding them both to the staircase. Ren and Gem start to apologize but they don't follow them up the stairs.

“Come on Doc, we have more questions.” He whines as they reach the office. Doc flips a switch by the desk, and the bookshelf replaces itself as if it was never moved at all. He ignores Grian, walking out of the room, the two following him out.

“I’m sure you do, but I have two villains to yell at and you don't want to be there for that.” He says, opening the front door and gesturing for them to get out. Scar does, walks right out without a hesitation. But Grian stays put, crossing his arms with a defiant chirp.

“G. Out.” He huffs.

“No! You know more about this, if we leave now we will just come back tomorrow.” He warns, steppin closer to the door.

“Fine! We have a deal anyways. I have a few leads we can talk about tomorrow but,” He pauses, stopping his sentence abruptly. He hesitates, looking at Grian and then out the door with the Hero waiting. “Just, come back tomorrow. Now go.”

With a winning smile, Grian skips out the door not even flinching as it slams behind him. Scar is standing there with his hands on his hips, also not looking pleased.

“I. Am upset at you.” He says evenly. Grian knows he should feel worried, but on the other claw he just broke the case even further open. So, instead he turns and walks out of the alley way.

It's darker out now. He knew he woke up late, it had to be around 12pm then and now the sun is almost down. The overcast clouds in the sky don't help with it being dark either. It smells like rain too. A nice summer rain will be nice. The streets are pretty empty too, maybe everyone else knows about the rain.

“Don't ignore me Birdy!” Scar catches up to him. Pulling his bow around his head finally. “You tricked me! We could have been in serious trouble, and we still could be if the Council finds out about this!” He's gesturing wildly with his hands.

“So, they won't find out!” Grian shrugs looking up to Scar. “Listen, we now will have access to all the information we need for this case. This mission will be over so quickly now and then we can go back to looking for our people!”

This seems to sober Scar a bit. The realization that they are almost on two missions at once, and really this one is in the way. He deflates a little, he clenches and unclenches his hands as he thinks. They walk down the street quietly, Grian is relatively high spirits and Scar somber.

“I hope you know what you are doing.” Scar says suddenly, shaking his head, scratching the back of his neck.

“I promise, everything will be fine!” He smiles, leaning over to catch his eye as he walks. Scar smiles back, laughing at Grians ridiculous lean as he walks. He straightens back up, happy that he got Scar to lighten up a little.

As he walks he hears a meow at his side. Looking down between them he sees a round gray and white cat strolling along next to them. She meows loudly up at Scar flicking her tail against his pants.

“Jellie!” He smiles, stopping to pet her along her back. Scar stops and squats down as well, scratching her under her chin with a happy smile.

“She knows it's going to rain. She's coming home with us!” He pats her head one last time before standing up. Grian follows, debating on whether he should pick her up or not. He decides against it, she looks happy enough to walk alongside them.

“How will she come inside? Aren't pets not allowed?”

“I’m sure she will be overlooked as she walks by…” He smirks, watching Jellie saunterns beside them.

“Oh? She comes in often then?” The sun had fully gone down now, the street lights illuminating their walk back. They were a few blocks away from the Hero Tower, strolling past dark alleyways hoping to avoid whenever it decided to start raining.

“Whenever she wants to I guess. And bad weather.”

Right as the words leave his mouth, Grian feels a harsh hand in his wing, pulling back into the dark alley. A hand is wrapped around his middle as a knife is placed by his neck. He feels his bow fall from his back and onto the ground, the string cut by the knife on the way to his throat.

(He distantly feels his heart shatter at the thought that his bow is broken. That's his only one, and it got him through vigilantism. And now it's broken. But he knows he has bigger fish to fry right now, or else he might have felt as cut through as the string.)

He chirps feeling the pain travel through his wing when he gets pulled. As unexpected as he was, he still reaches to grab his own knife, but the knife pushes his head up further. A warning, meaning he can't reach down into his boot.

Instead he reaches his free hand arm up to try and claw at the arm with a knife to his throat. Unfortunately, the person is wearing leather arms guards, and when he tries to pull him away, he can't get a good grip. Great, so, oiled leather.

He tries to stomp on his feet, but he has steel boots. And he can't kick either because they have their feet planted out of his reach. He is quite literally, helpless. Again. Damn, twice in 24 hours.

He glances back to the mouth of the alley to see Scar already pointing an arrow at him. And he will admit, being on this side of Scars bow when he's looking at him like that, really is terrifying.

“Let him go.” He states, staring them down.

“Not a chance. Lotta money on this one.” The person behind him says. His voice is low, and gravelly like he doesn't speak often. It's a tenor tone, lazy in gait and almost cocky. And most surprising, familiar.

“Mercenary?” Scar is scanning them, looking for a clean shot. But Grian knows wings are in the way, too big to fully fit behind his back.

“I prefer 'professional assassin’, but sure.” They say flippantly, holding Grian tighter. Grian could probably get out of this, but not without a killer cut on his neck. He would like to avoid that, so he waits for an opening. Much like HotGuy is as well, and the assassin knows it.

“You were paid to kill CuteGuy?” Scar asks, slowly trying to inch his way to the side to get a better angle. The merc notices, turning them as well.

“Lots and lots of money. So why don't you just walk out of here, and maybe you can live too.” Grian can hear the smile in his voice as he speaks. It's so familiar but why?

“You know I can't do that.” He starts pressing the knife in harder and he feels the blood start to drip from his neck. He tries to use his wings a bit, one is pinched around his side by the man's arm, but his other is almost free. He tries to fare it out, maybe to throw the assassin off.

It doesn't work, he just cuts deeper, making Grian freeze all his movement. His damn wings! He knows that Scar would have a clean shot if his wings weren't in the way. The assassin just keeps moving him to hide behind them.

There is one way that Grian can think this'll go better, but it'll be one hell of a shot and very painful. He tries one last time, futilely, to either pull his wings in more or get them out of the way, but cant get any leverage. A (scared) concerned chirp forces its way from his throat.

“Stop!” Scar shouts, taking a step closer.

“Ah ah ah! Come closer and I’ll just get it over with.” He pulls Grian further into the dark alley.

“HotGuy, shoot through my wing.” Grian grounds out, giving permission. It'll be a bitch to heal but it's better than dying. And honestly, he can see no real way out of this without someone getting hurt. He’ll take an arrow to the wing if this gets over with.

“No.” He answers immediately, leaving no room for negotiation. Of course, righteous Hero bastard. Grian huffs. “How much did they pay you?” Scar goes back to addressing his will-be murderer.

“More than you have.” He says lazily. Lazily…

“Try me.” He just knows that Scar narrows his eyes. It's no secret that the number one Hero is paid quite well.

“Two.” He says evenly.

“I’ll give you four to let him go.”

“Two billion.” He laughs. What? Both Grian and Scar are very shocked. Who would put a hit on him for two billion dollars. He's been a Hero for like three days! Why, or better yet, who would do such a thing? Was Cub right about people not liking him that much, like damn!

The assassin laughs. “I’ll cut you in if you leave now.” He muses.

“How do you expect to leave here? You kill him, I kill you. So what's the point?” Scar sneers, Grian can tell he's searching for an opening. Stalling, waiting and watching and hoping for something to help.

“That's for me to worry about, HotStuff.” They laugh. He's interrupted by the yowl of a cat, and a loud hiss. Grians breath catches as the man sucks in a pained breath. If he could look down, he's pretty sure he can take a guess on what he would see.

Something along the lines of Jellie with her claws sunk into the man's calf. Possibly even a bite or two. He wants to smile, proud that Scars cat likes him enough to try and defend him, but he's scared of what the assassin might do to her.

Then, the man hisses back . Odd, but thankfully he doesn't kick her off. He treats her more like a nuisance than a threat. Which is pretty fair, but at least the killer-for-hire has morals about hurting animals.

“Recruiting animals now huh?” He snickers, shaking his leg to try and dislodge her, but she must bite harder because he yelps.

“Hurt her too and they won’t find your body.” Scar says darkly, his voice low spooking even Grian. So the Hero does have a bit of a dark side.

Suddenly, the assassin tightens his grip into Grians shirt, pulling him close as he slowly digs the knife in more.

“Scar!” Grian yelps, just wanting him to shoot the arrow. He squeezes his eyes shut waiting for either pain he knows is about to happen.

“Oh, so the Birdy sings? I’m getting bored, any last words?” ‘So the Birdy sings,’ he says? Who had said that to him before? His eyes snap open, a memory resurfacing for just under three years ago.

“I call the Sword! Etho, stop!” The knife pauses, he feels the blood dripping down his neck. The alleyway suddenly silent, all that can be heard is Jellie’s occasional growls.

“Grian?” The person, Etho, stutters.

“I called it Etho, let me go!” He hesitates, but slowly releases the knife. He pulls it away from his throat, but he continues to hold onto him.

“Call off your guard dog and cat and I’ll let go. This is a lot of money G!” The man laments, letting his head fall onto Grians shoulder as he whines.

“S-Scar it's okay. He's okay, I know him.” He stutters a bit, still a little shocked at the turn of events.

“You kno– Do you just know everybody in Hermit Empire?” He cries. He does drop his bow down to his side, but again keeps the arrow in his hand.

“Most of ‘em apparently.” He nervously laughs, shuffling from foot to foot now that the arm around him has relaxed a bit. “Put your bow on the ground please.” He asks, his wings shaking a bit from the adrenalin.

Scar follows his request, with a huff and a sigh, but he does comply. Crouching down and putting both the bow and arrow flat on the ground. Staying crouched as he whistles a high note. He hears Etho grunt from behind him, then Jellie runs over to Scar. She sat down between his legs, facing Etho and Grian. If he looks close enough, he thinks he can see a little blood around her claws and mouth (and maybe if he thinks about it long enough, it makes him smile and laugh a little.)

Scar stood back up, Jellie as well, walking around Scar's legs and wrapping her tail around his ankle. Scar put up his empty palms, frowning deeply but not moving.

Grian felt himself be pushed suddenly, tripping over his feet and stumbling over as Scar stepped up to catch him. Grian reached his hand up to his throat, it came back slick. It wasn't a super deep cut, but it was bleeding pretty bad. Damn, twice in 24 hours he's almost died. Maybe being a Hero was a lot more dangerous than he was thinking.

Scar presses some cloth around his throat, pressing Grian to grab it himself and hold it there. He does, confused at where it came from, but grateful nonetheless. He's fine, if not a little shook up. He takes a deep breath, looking up at Scar seeing his eyes flashing orange over his glasses. He hesitantly smiles at him, but his face is still pinched, clearly upset.

He draws his eyes over Grians shoulder, looking at the assassin. Grian turns around, keeping himself closer to Scar, but wanting to know more about his assassination attempt. Etho stood leaning against the wall, cleaning his knife. His white hair was held out of his face by his black bandana, and his signature mask obscuring most his face, except his eyes.

He looks up from his knife, his one red eye piercing through them with a lazy stare. He put his knife away in his belt, kicking off the wall and stepping toward the Heros. Scar pulls them back, making the merc stop putting his own hands up.

“What can’t say hello to an old friend?” He huffs, stuffing his hands in his jacket pockets. The green, fur lined coat is something Grian knows well holds several more weapons, but he chooses not to say anything about it.

“I wouldn't say someone you almost killed is a friend.” Scar scoffs.

“Must have different ideas of friends then.” He shrugs. His lackadaisical way of speaking unfortunately makes Grian laugh, much to Scars annoyance.

“Good to see you again Etho, been a while.” Grian shakes his head, looking at the ground.

“Been around. You know how it is.”

“I don't, but it sounds like you do.” Grian laughs. He can tell Etho is smiling as well.

“What the hell is happening right now?” Scar shouts, Grian can hear the painful confusion in his voice. Grian sighs, remembering the night that could probably be described as the worst situation he had ever been in as a vigilante. Etho just laughs, deciding to go back to leaning on the wall, taking his hand out of his pocket to inspect his black painted nails. His fingerless gloves had been pulled off exposing his scarred skin.

“We met, what, like, two and a half years ago? I saved his ass once and he has owed me ever since.” Grian says the quickest version of the story he could, not getting into much of the details. They would be there the rest of the night if he had. Etho huffs a laugh, turning to look at them again.

“And now you used it, and stole 2 billion from me! G, what the fuck? I could kill you, then find a way to bring you back with that much!”

“You didn't even know it was me until I said your name!” Grian counters, feeling a headache start behind his eyes. He also is starting to feel a little light headed as well. Ugh, he's feeling a bit of deja vu from the night previous.

“A jobs a job G. I’ll be lucky to get out of this one. Maybe Doc will take me for a bit…” He murmurs under his breath. Grian hears it though, his heart beating a bit faster. So, he also knows Doc? He had assumed Etho had skipped town after what had happened, but if he knows 77’s real name and he also knows that he can crash at his place too? He must have ‘been around’.

“Who hired you?” Scar interrupts his thoughts, finally reaching down to grab his bow. Etho tenses, but as Scar just puts the arrows away and swings the bow over his shoulder, he relaxes again.

“Nice try, but I never know. But if I were you, I’d think about who in this city has billions of dollars to throw away. He stares at Grian coldly, a shiver running up his spine. Who? Who is right. He looks at Scar, wondering if he has any idea. The Hero is moving his jaw as he thinks, a troubled look crossing his face.

“We are…seeing Doc tomorrow. Will you be there?” Grian asks, hesitant. He's not sure if he wants to see him again. They did have a tumultuous friendship a few years ago. He turned away from Scar, addressing Etho who had put his glove back and was walking across the alley to the dumpster that was near the end.

“Maybe. Maybe not. Hope we meet again for different reasons though.” He drugs again. “I’m going to help you out, pro bono as it is,” They watch as his person is surrounded in a light purple aura. He hops up onto the closed lid, and jumps to reach the rusted balcony above him. It creaks as he expertly swings himself over the rail.

“Someone wants you dead, and really bad, Birdy. And I’m going to give you the benefit of knowing me, and help you out. What you actually used the sword on, was to get me to protect you indefinitely, instead of killing you tonight. I am a man of my word, Birdy. See you later. Be careful.” He jumps onto the rail, then leaps to the otherside of the alley, catching the edge of the roof and flipping himself over. He disappears without another word into the night.

Both Heros stand still in the silent alley, thoughts racing through both of their minds. The cloth in Grians had felt wet, but the cut must've stopped bleeding. He continues to hold it though.

Scar takes his arm, starting to pull him out of the mouth of the alley. He resists though, catching his eye on his now ruined bow. He felt tears well in his eyes, that was his only one! The one he had through all of this…

He pulls his arm from Scar, and drops his other hand from his neck, the cloth falling onto the ground. He kneels down on the ground and picks up the bow, the string lax and unraveling, spilling onto the concrete. His heart is heavy, forgetting that Etho had snapped it in the emotions of everything.

How could he forget? It's all he had when he was on the streets and now it's broken. A tear falls free, trailing down his face under his glasses. He feels Scar crouch next to him, putting an arm around his shoulder. He takes the bow from his hand without resistance, Jellie taking its place headbutting his hand and meowing until he starts to pet her. He does, keeping his bloody hand to himself.

“It's okay. I have plenty of bows exactly like this.” Turning the bow over in his hand. He knows that Scar has more, but that one is his, and now it's busted.

“That's all I had…” He breathes, petting Jellie as she purrs loudly. He feels a little ridiculous, crying over a lame bow. He can get another. Probably a better one if he asked StarVoid kindly enough. But he had this one for so long. And now it's ruined.

“We can restring it, Birdy.” Scar says, comfortingly, tilting his head to the side. Grian tilts his head to the side too, but confused.

“You can fix it?” He feels his hope flutter in his chest. His wings fluttering in response with a hopeful cheep.

“Of course G. It's just a broken string, I do that all the time! Did…you not know you could do that?” He asks, taking Grians arm again and helping him up. Grian hesitates, scooping Jellie up with him. She's coming in tonight anyway, and maybe he wants something to hug.

“No…I've never broken a string.” Was that something that happened? Never happened to him…and he didn't really know anyone else that was good at archery.

“You must have been really lucky then! Mine snap all the time! I’ll teach you how, but we have to go back home. I’ll get Poppy to meet us there and help your neck.” He just nods, sniffing lightly. He’s getting tired of this. All of this. He took this job to get closer to finding his family, and so far he has done everything but that. He's almost died twice and only been a Hero for two weeks.

He can tell Scar is also upset. He's hiding it well but by the way he grips his arm he can tell he's worried. Angry, maybe, too. He didn't ask for this! He doesn't know what is happening.

Why would somebody want him dead? What did he do? He just got here! Maybe he made some enemies on the streets, but he would be shocked to know if he made any influential enemies. He stayed out of the media for a reason…

He felt a raindrop fall right onto the tip of his nose. The Hero Tower was in sight, a block away. He pulled his wings in tight, not wanting to get them wet. Scar doesn't let go of his arm, pulling him closer as the sky starts to open up. He pulls him faster along until they finally break through into the lobby.

Grian shakes his wings out, since they had just been preened the water didn't penetrate the feathers much. He looks up to Scar who still looks contemplative. Both quiet as they pass the front desk and hopping into the elevator. He feels lighter, without his bow. It's a weird feeling of loss even though he doesn't even remember where he got it.

But it makes his heart hurt, thinking about it… He sees it in Scars hand, and he hopes he can restring it back to how he knows. He knows he's also a little in shock at what happened, getting almost killed in two nights will probably do that to you.

His headache is worse and all he can think is that maybe if he asks Poppy, he can fix both his throat and head.

Chapter Text

“Mumbo! Nice of you to join us!” He chirped towards his front door. He heard the Hero sigh before shutting the door. Impulse and Pearl laugh, sitting on the floor around the coffee table arranging documents.

“Right, right, sorry! StarVoid would not stop talking to me about Evil Exs new villain plans and then that new Hero Tek asked me training questions and I–” He adjusts his tie as he speaks, walking over to the couch.

Grian rolls his eyes, leaning back against the sofa, spreading out his wings and chirping to interrupt the frazzled Hero. He stops talking, huffing as he takes the empty seat next to Grian and under his wing. He wraps it around him, ignoring Pearl and Impulses fake gags.

“We can start the meeting now!” He smiles, rolling his eyes at the antics of the other two.

They had all been called for their monthly Boatem meeting (well, usually it was monthly. But recently it was becoming much more common.) each of them taking their normal spots. He watches Mumbo look around at the group, eyes lingering on the empty spot on his other side.

“Scar still not invited?” He voices to the group, them all turning to look at Grian. He pursed his lips, wings twitching as he looked away from them.

“Shouldn't we invite Scar?” Impulse asks, resting his elbows on the table placing his chin in his hands. He shifted over to try and catch Grians eyes.

“I– still don't want him involved in this stuff. We all agreed on this.” Grian sighs. Guess they were getting straight to business. “Especially with this new evidence, he would just become liable. He's still too new and I don't want this to…shock him.” He explains again. Pearl's small aural feathers twitch, she usually doesn't show them often, hiding them with her hair, so it's nice to see them out.

“But,” Pearl lowers her voice as she speaks, as if the Hero they are talking about will suddenly appear. “Wouldn't his ability be able to help us?” She grabs one of the papers, as if to accentuate her point.

“Having some luck on our side would really help.” Mumbo mumbles at his sides, leaning closer.

“I agree with Grian,” Impulse points out. “His luck would be nice, but he's still too new. This would crush his idea of the Hero Association. I mean, not only the corruption but the drugs and Council? He's never had to deal with these issues. He hasn't even had a long term undercover mission like this yet.” He fiddles with the sleeves of his shirt as he speaks. His eyes are hardened though, believing what he's saying.

“But he will have to know at some point!” Pearl starts, but Grian stops her with a sigh.

“He will know then, then. This isn't the point of today's meeting.” He huffs, rolling his eyes. “I found something.” He says, leaning away from Mumbo as he pulls an envelope out of his coat. He opens it up, a little vial of milky, light purple liquid falls into his palm.

“I got Miss Leading, False, to use her power and get me this,” He held it up to the light, barely any shining through. He passed it to Mumbo, who would pass it around when he was done. “I don't know what it is, she had just gotten it off a Hero who had been gone on an undercover mission. The Hero had been acting odd when they got back, so I asked False to take a look into it and she gave me that.”

“I can test it to see if it has any similarities to MooPop. See if the pills that we found the Association making are similar to what this is. If so, then the antidote I’ve been working on should still work with this.” Mumbo spoke, handing it off to Impulse.

“Please do. Otherwise, that's all I have.” Grian finished, leaning back and pulling Mumbo with him. He huffed, but followed with a smile.

“How close are you on that Red?” Pearl asked, looking intently at the vial.

“Close. Some parts are still confusing me. I might need to ask for some help, but without being able to ask Xisuma I’m kinda left on my own.” He starts to gently preen Grians wings, much to Grians happiness.

“Well we still have time. We just want to get on top of the corruption. We have made it this far, and they don't know. So we can wait a few more months, don't worry about it!” Impulse starts to gather their documents that they didn't even look at this meeting. It was all stuff they had seen before anyways.

"On the topic of Scar, he seems a bit down recently." Impulse said, getting up from the floor. Both Pearl and Grian cooed sadly, but Grian moreso.

"Really?" He chirped, he didn't really notice anything weird with Scar.

"Yea, I think its the-"

Grian shot up from his couch with the sound of heavy pounding on his door. His breath was already picked up from the nightmare, dream, memory thing. But now he's confused, scanning his front room blinking hard. For the few weeks he's been here, nobody has ever come to his door. (There was Scar, of course. But Scar doesn't knock anymore, and when he did it was very neat and nice.)

He jumps, startled again, when the banging continues. He starts to take his blankets off absentmindedly, trying in vain to get his brain to catch up to what was going on. Was there a meeting he forgot about? Scar didn't say anything…

Maybe it was a Hero needing help? He still wasn't too sure at how the proceeding for these things went. Maybe there was a big villain or something, but the knocking was a little archaic. So he went to stand up, intent on opening his door.

This is weird, his wings shaking out beside him. He feels so off kilter, such an abrupt start to his morning he is still confused. He takes a step toward his door, finally clearing his mind a bit as he is finally out of bed. But not enough to get his brain jumpstarted.

But, his instincts give him pause. Something about this feels wrong, odd. Not being fully awake, his instincts seem to take over for him, making him stop. His ear feathers twitch, and he takes a step back. Normally, he would find this annoying. But being so confused, he just lets it happen.

He listens closely. The pounding on his door stopped for a moment, leaving him in silence. Silence? There was no shouting outside the door. No urgency in the way the harsh fists pounded at his door. That doesn't make any sense, if there's something going wrong there should be a commotion, he'd think.

One thing was glaring through his mind though, whoever was behind his door was certainly not Scar, so who?

His sleep addled mind was telling him it has to be somebody bad. Years of paranoia will do that, living in the bad parts of town makes you very weary to open a door being banged on. Somewhere in the back of his mind he knew that he was in the Hero Tower, and there was no way somebody nefarious could get in. But the pounding on his door still has not stopped.

It made him increasingly more nervous. So, when he heard his door handle being jiggled (maybe leaving the door unlocked for Scar wasn't the best idea), he shot up from the floor and flew up onto the support beam hiding against the wall. If whoever was coming in looked up, they would no doubt see him. But for being unprepared, this was the best he had. He doesn't even know why he's hiding, instinct maybe. The increasingly less uncommon occurrence that it was.

Not even a second after his back touched the wall, the door swung open. If he wasn't awake before, he was at the sound and crash of the door hitting the wall. It made him flinch; that was definitely gonna leave a mark.

He watched as around five people, all dressed in long royal purple robes, barged into his room and started to turn the place upside down. When they rushed in, they all split up into different rooms. Grian could hear as they tipped his stuff over, completely silent as they did it.

They kept their heads down, luckily, so they didn't see him. Unluckily they had hoods on so Grian couldnt even see who they were.

He felt so confused. Is this a dream? A dream after a dream… That's never happened before but at this point he wouldn't put it past his brain to figure something like that out. What was that old saying? You can't feel pain in a dream? He reaches around and pulls a downy feather from under his wings. He feels a sharp pain as the snap out of his reach behind him. He winces, okay, not a dream then.

Crouching down, and sliding his back down the wall, he leaned down to get closer. Nervous energy flowed through him making his hands buzz slightly. What the fuck was happening? These people just barge in and flip his shit? He's never seen a gang look like this before, so it's not someone coming for revenge. And it's certainly not some Heros looking for some help. As the seconds flew by, anger was taking the place of confusion.

It didn't matter who these people were, they were trashing the place! He almost chittered as he watched one destroy the nest Scar had made him. Then they tipped over his record player, checking each record sleeve before just dropping them. They looked under every cushion, under his blankets and every surface in each and every room.

Grian could do nothing, just watch and take long calming breaths. Whatever was happening, he's sure Scar can help him. This has to be a weird Hero fanclub or something. They have to be looking for something of his, not that he owns much. His place is barely decorated. He had the records and the player and that's about it…

He was getting a bad vibe from them though as he watched from his perch. Something underlying and dangerous. Possibly not a fanclub then, but he has a hard time believing that a villain group could just walk into the Hero Tower. That feeling is why he stayed on the rafter even after they ruined his nest. Call it a hunch, but something wrong was happening here and he'd rather just wait it out.

"Xelqua is gone." One of them finally voiced. All of them as a collective walked back to the front door. Creepy, Grian sneered and flicked his wings out lightly. So they were looking for him? The guy with the wings, and they didn't look up? Whoever these guys were, they weren't very smart. And how did they know his last name?

"We will look in the Lucky ones room then." The one closest to the door spoke, walking out the door without another word. The others followed, slamming the door behind them. Good riddance! He shifted on his beam as he looked over his trashed place. Maybe Cub could help with this?

Those guys said they were going to somebody else though. He would rather not run into them again. What did they say? The lucky one? He jumps down from his perch onto his blanket covered floor. He coos as he picks up one of the pillows. The lucky one...

He drops the pillow suddenly, the dream. The lucky one! Scar!

Like a bullet, he jumps over his tossed around things and throws his balcony door open. It's pouring rain, soaking him almost instantly as he bursts out the doors, but he doesn't care. Something weird was happening and something just tells him that he needs to get the Scar, and get to him quick.

He throws himself over the railing, catching himself with his wings and shooting the other side of the Hero Tower. He knew that Scar flat was probably a direct copy of his, and directly across from him.

The rain is getting in his eyes and dripping down his hair. But it's a warm kind of rain, the kind that instead of making one shiver, makes it hard to breathe the moist air. He pushes on, thinking of his rapidly beating heart and racing instinctual thoughts.

He thinks of his dream and the way they were treating Scar. Watcher wasn't very nice to him, excluding him in most everything. And the words ring in his ears, ‘I don't want him involved’ . Yet all Grian can think about right now is how much he does want Scar involved. Maybe he can help.

So, ignoring his bogged down wet wings, he pushes himself up and around the side of the building. He passes window after window, yet doesn't see a single soul behind the glass, not that he's really looking.

He pushes himself up, spotting what he knows should be Scars room, and landing heavily on his balcony. He threw the door open, happy that it was unlocked, and instantly noticed how dark it was in the room. But as he heard the pounding in the door he knew he didn't have much time to look around.

Scanning the room he started to walk to where he knew Scars room should be. The floor feels bare, like wood with no carpet or rug. He squints his eyes making sure he doesn't step on something, when he catches the look of a lump huddled on the couch.

At first, he was confused. Why isn't Scar in his bedroom? But then he hears the handle of the door jiggle and he's glad that he isn't. Welp, hopefully he doesn't scream too loud.

Instantly, Grian jumps to the Hero sleeping on the couch and grabs him. He was curled up around something, so when Grian grabs him, he does so bridal style taking his blanket with him. He shoots them up to the rafters, somehow Scar only waking up as he touches down. How he did not wake from the knocking he'll never know.

The Hero started to peel his eyes open just as the door struck the wall. The sudden noise had him snapping his neck to the area it came from. He opened his mouth to probably voice his confusion, but Grian shoots his hand out and covers his mouth.

Then the Hero starts trying to wiggle out of Grians grip, awake and very confused. Grian holds him tighter, using the hand covering his mouth to turn his head toward him. Scar eyes are wide with a mix of fear and anger. Oh, he probably assumed this was a botched kidnapping. Oops.

He watches as Scar squintes until he recognizes who has a hold on him. Relaxing his grip a bit, Scar sighs through his nose. He stays curled up, the fear and confusion being replaced with just confusion and, after moving some more, an expression that looks like pain.

Scars uncovered eyes widen up at Grian and he stops most of his movement, a grimace passing his features and he adjusts his position slightly in Grians grip. Grian watches his eyes as an orange glow bleeds across the brown, settling into him starting his power. He stops wiggling, snapping his neck to watch the intruders as they give Scars room the same treatment he got.

They were both temporarily blinded when one of them flipped the light switch. Grian blinked his eyes rapidly, getting used to the brightness of the room. He could hear as the groups moved Scars stuff, but they didn't sound too busy. When his eyes finally adjusted to the light of the room, he glanced around.

Scar’s room was practically empty. Even compared to Grian, there was barely a thing! Just a couch and a coffee table. There looked to be some fruits on the counter, but otherwise, no rug, no table, no chairs, not even a tv. But Grian did see that on the walls there were frames and frames of photos.

Grian couldn't see them very well from the height, but he could assume who was pictured in them. It seemed as soon as he saw them, so did the Purple Robes. All of them congregated there and they started tearing them off the walls. They either just threw them on the ground until they broke, or tore the back off of them first. They were searching for something here too, just throwing them on the floor when they were found to be just normal photos. Many of the frames shattered upon impact.

He heard Scar whimper, leaning close to the edge as they did. He pulled him closer, not wanting him to fall over the edge. He was surprised at not only the pure destruction but also Scars willingness to lean over the edge when he was scared of heights. He watched as Scar's water line filled with tears as they continued, Grian becoming just as upset with Scar as they took each and every photo down.

Still, they both stayed quiet, Grian sitting against the wall with Scar still held in his lap. He would've put him down if he had time, but alas, here they sit. And honestly at this point, maybe a part of both of them didn't want Scar to be put down.

He couldn't really imagine what Scar was going through right now. Sure, a similar thing happened to him as we woke up. But he can only imagine this is much more jarring for him. And the seemingly only things he owned are all broken. Oh Scar… He pulled him closer.

After the wall was destroyed, they all stood by the door again.

“They have nothing here. We must come back later.” One said, all of the nodding at the same time. He saw Scars face the moment he realized how creepy they were too. “We will monitor the building, if they come back, tell the others to capture them.” The last part shocks Grian, capture them? That rules out weird fans unless they are that weird.

They then left, slamming the door behind them making both Grian and Scar jump. As well as a soft ‘murr?’ coming from Scars lap.

Grian chirped quietly, confused. Scar just huffed, still staring at the door but relaxing his arms a bit from his lap. Out popped Jellies head, looking up at Grian with wide green eyes. Oh so that's what Scar was curled around.

“Who are they?” Scar murmured, subdued. Grian feels let down, hoping that Scar would know.

“I was hoping that you had an answer for that… Got any enemies?” Grian jokes, flying them both down and setting Scar on his feet. Scar doesn't smile, he just holds onto Jellie and slowly walks to the broken glass. The blanket falls from his shoulders as he does.

“Too many.” He breathes, crouching down to look at the photos. None of them looked ruined, but many of the frames were. “But none that would do something like this…” He looks like he wants to pick some of them up, but would rather just keep hold of Jellie.

Grian sighed sadly, walking over and crouching next to Scar. He started to carefully sift through the glass, taking the photos out of the mess and stacking them in his hand. He heard Scar give a noise of protest as he moved broken glass with his bare claws, but he continued anyway.

He didn't stop to look at any of them. If Scar had wanted him to see them, then he would have invited Grian in. Instead, he basically broke in and saw something he's pretty sure he wasn't supposed to. Even if it was to help out Scar, the situation sucked.

It was quiet as he picked them all up. He only nicked himself once on the glass somehow even though it was all really sharp. He made sure to keep the pricked finger away from the pictures, not wanting to get blood on them.

As he stood up, he walked over and placed them all on Scars empty bar. When he turned back around he saw Scar standing, walking over and sitting on the arm of his overturned couch. He was petting Jellie, a soft frown on his face as he looked down at her. She just purred, dozing in his lap.

Grian felt a weird mix of jealousy and sadness. Jealousy because his instincts want to be the one helping Scar, and sadness for the fact he needs the help in the first place. Maybe dream Grian had a point in not involving Scar. Watcher. Dream Watcher.

Grian chooses to ignore that line of thought, walking up to Scar and petting Jellie was well. She gives a soft ‘murr’ as he does. Grian churrs back, wings fluffing up as he talks back. Scar huffs a laugh, much to Grians delight.

“None of the pictures were ruined. Not even a scratch.” He smiles, using his head to venture over to the bar where he set them all down. He didn't look at the contents of the pictures really (he got the jist of who was in them. If he really paid attention maybe he saw how most of the faces were blurred out too.) but he did turn them all in the light to look for scratches, finding none.

“That's good. Those are all I have left.” He mumbled raising his hand to rub the back of his neck, seemingly nervous. Or maybe even embarrassed as his eyes scanned over his empty walls. It made Grian feel awkward. He wasn't prepared for this when came in, not really thinking past making sure Scar got out of view.

“Umm… Nice place.” Grian said dumbly, regretting it as soon as it came out his mouth. Scar looks over at him with an incredulous look. But upon seeing Grian's horrified face, he bursts out laughing. He throws his head back, Jellie squirming as he shakes her with his laughing.

Well, at least something good comes from his dumbassery. Grian shakes his head and pulls his wings in close, now he's the one who is embarrassed. Scar wipes a tear, whether it's from before or the laughing Grian does not know. But what he does know is that when Scar turns to look at him, he too can't help but smile a little.

“Thanks Birdy. I'll be sure to give you a tour sometime.” He says with a sombering smile. Grian feels his wings droop seeing his squinting eyes filled with tears. It's clear to Grian that Scar doesn't want to talk about his room. And while Grian really wants to know why it's so empty, he respects Scar. Plus, after looking back at the glass on the ground, they have much more pressing things to talk about.

So, he moves on.

“You said you don't know who those guys were, but do you have a guess? Or why they said something about capturing us?” He turns around and leaps around the glass, still not wearing shoes. He hears Scar take in a breath, probably about to yell at him to not do that, but he doesn't say a word. Grian opens a closet door, searching for a broom.

It's one of the only things in the closet, leaning against a bare wall next to a singular hanging winter coat. With a sigh, Grian grabs it and starts to sweep all the glass into one pile that they can deal with later.

“You don't have to do that…” Scar remarks, staring down at Jellie who is busy pawing at the strings of his hoodie.

“I want to. They wrecked my shit, but none of it was really personal.” He tries and fails not to think about the overturned record player and the possibly scratched records to go with it on his floor. “You don't know them then?”

“No…But the purple robes point to either some weird Association fan cult, or something related to that.” He finishes piling the broken shards against the wall, placing the broom alongside.

“So, how do you think they got in then? Can you just walk right in?” Grian asked, walking back to stand in front of Scar with his arms crossed.

“That's what I want to know too. You need to have your fingerprints in the systems to open any door or the elevator. So unless someone let them up, they shouldn't have been able to.” He slowly strokes Jellies back.

“Could they have broken in?”

“ You couldn't even break in.” Scar snorts, making Grian frown, offended. “So no, not really.” He sighs, standing from his seat. “It's quite the start to the day though I’ll say that. I’ll…try and talk to Cub about it. But if this is at all related to the mission then he can’t help.”

That still makes no sense to Grian. Why have Cub be their connection to the Council if they can't even talk to him? With everything going on it would be nice to talk to someone who could give them some sort of direction.

‘With everything going on’ buzzes through his brain. So much has happened in such a short amount of time that it's getting hard to keep track of it all. He can see it in Scar too. The way the dark shadows under his eyes cling harder and the way his posture is failing even when he's in character. Grian can't help but feel like maybe this is somehow his fault. Everything was fine before he became a Hero…

Especially the thing about being captured. So they weren't just looking for something specific, they were also looking for them. But why? Grian isn't too terribly freaked out by the threat, he and Scar can hold their own. Maybe it has to do with whoever hired Etho…

Grian wonders how they could have gotten in, if nobody even knew or cared that they walked in. Maybe…somebody let them in? No Hero would have let a group like them in. Scar did say that it's possible it has to do with the mission, so maybe they are missing something.

Who had they met that could do something like this? He goes back through what they know so far, finding it wasn't a lot. But there was one thing that rang through his mind suddenly while recounting the last week.

“The book…” He breathed, snapping his head to look at Scar with wide eyes. Scar looked confused for a moment before he too was struck by recognition.

“The book. There were Heros in the book.” He recounted to Grian, making sure they were on the same page. Then suddenly Scar looked like he held the weight of the world. Grian didn't understand why, this should be a huge breakthrough!

“It means we've been compromised Birdy. We can't… stay here anymore.” He sighs, petting Jellie softly with his eyes looking down.

Oh…Oh yeah. He remembers Scar saying something about how staying in the Hero Tower for undercover missions was a little weird. And it usually isn't something Heros did. He didn't think of that…

“What are we going to do then?” He asks. It feels unfair to look to Scar for what to do, given everything that has just happened. But Grian is too new, he just doesn't know what to do here.

“I’ll speak to Cub to let him know we have to go off site for this now, and from there we have to figure it out ourselves.” He shakes his head huffing a small and quiet exasperated laugh.

“Speaking of the mission,” Scar says in a sudden change in tone, surprising Grian with the change of topic. “We should probably head to…Docs.” He wanders his eyes around his walls as he hesitates on saying the name. His eyes land on Grian before speaking again. “He probably wouldn't mind an early morning visit!” He puffs out his chest with a bright smile.

Grian narrows his eyes at the Hero in front of him. The whiplash he used to get from this type of switch feels a bit strained now. Like he's getting used to it, expecting it when it comes to these types of topics. Scar sounds chipper again, happy and much more alert. But Grian can see how he grips onto Jellie, keeping her closer as she slowly glides her tail back and forth. He's faking it again. Faking being okay for the sake of being a Hero.

And while Grian would love to call him out, he also understands that right now, everything is so confusing. He’ll let Scar keep his masking comfort for now, as long as it does not harm. They will have to talk about it later. Find a place to stay, talk more about what this all means. But for now, he will leave HotGuy be.

Abruptly, Grian sees a single drop of water fall from his bangs past his eyes and onto the floor. Oh yeah. He is still soaked to the bone.

“Do you… have a change of clothes I can borrow? Since I’m here?” He feels a drop of water slide down his back, making him shiver uncomfortably. Scar just tilts his head, looking him over before suddenly realizing.

“What?” He pauses, probably also realizing that his backside where Grian held him is quite damp. He sees Scar grimace at the wet spot on his couch as well as he turns to look at it.

“It's raining.” Grian states dumbly, moving around the couch to push it back upright.

“That doesn't explain why you are soaked head to toe. Claw! Whatever!” He says, correcting himself yet still confused. Grian laughs, deciding to shake himself out like a dog, upsetting both Scar and Jellie. “Hey!”

“I flew here dingus. Look.” He points a claw over his shoulder at the still open balcony door. The rain continues to pour heavily, not letting up since he was last out. Somehow, he realizes, the Purple Robes didn't even look out there.

“Huh. How did you know those people were coming?” He asks, yawning now that his adrenaline isn't pumping. He walks to Grian and hands him Jellie. “Hold her? I don't want her to step on the glass.” He then turns and walks into what Grian assumes is his bedroom.

“They came to me first.” He raises his voice so Scar can hear him through the walls. He pets Jellie in his arms, she just purrs contentedly. The glass is in a pile, so he probably doesn't really need to hold her. But he does anyway.

“Do you know what they want?” Scar asks from his room. Grian here's some ruffling of clothes and some drawers opening.

“Nope! Just turned my flat upside down then left. I hid then too.” He leans against the arm of the couch when Scar was sitting. Hey, it's already wet so…

Scar comes out of his room then. He's wearing new clothes, loose and black like he was wearing before. But the items in his arm were an emerald green, folded neatly. Scar must notice his confused look, huffing a laugh before shuffling for a trade of Jellie, for the dry clothes.

Once complete, Grian unfolds the clothes one at a time. The first was a green robe like garb with a rope in the center to hold it together. Flicking his eyes up to Scar, he saw the Hero's ears were tipped red. Unfolding the other two pisces he was met with a dark green tank top and black knee length leggings.

“It's, uhh, all that I have that would fit you…” He shuffles on his feet nervously.

It takes Grian a moment to get his words back from the absolute reel that his brain took. More accurately, his bird brain took. Scar? Wants him to wear his clothes?

He's positive his pupils must've taken over his whole iris as he looked up at Scar. That thought being pretty much confirmed by Scars bark of laughter as he watched him. He chirped, annoyed, at getting laughed at, but didn't do anything about it.

He just watched as Scar shook his head with a real smile. He lifted Jellie and put her around his shoulders (for how large she was, Grian had no idea how she didn’t fall. She looked pretty content up there though.) before taking his shoulders. He churred confused, but let himself be pushed around.

With another laugh, Scar pushed Grian into the guest bathroom, closing the door behind him. Rude. But whatever.

Without Scar in the room, his birdness calmed down a bit. At least enough for him to strip and dry off using the towels under the sink. While it was warm outside, the drying rainwater was starting to make him shiver. So he decided to put the clothes Scar had given him on, throwing his wet ones into the bathtub.

First, the leggings were just a tab too big, but the stretchy material made them stay up fine. Then the tank top, which fit well enough. It had a deep ‘v’ neck that he flipped around to make room for his wings. When he got to the robe he was concerned he wouldn't be able to wear it for the same reason.

But as he flipped it around, he realized a dropped back was already sewn into it. He supposed he had never seen the back of Tycoons uniform, but he didn't think it would be this much skin. But to each their own, he supposed.

He put his arms through and wrapped it around his waist, tying it up. The slit up the side showed off the leggings with the front coming down enough to show off what would probably be his chest if he didn't flip the undershirt around.

The gold embroidered detailing around the side was a detail Grian had never really paid attention to before. The sleeves were a little long, so when he went to roll them up his eyes caught on the shiny decorative thread weaved into the satin fabric. Different plants and animals were depicted around the whole hem, as well as a few other things as well.

He pulled the sleeve closer, getting a closer look. These details look shoddier, like they were done by an unskilled hand. The thread matched, but it looked shakier and filled with imperfections.

There were four scattered just on this sleeve alone. There was a moon, a sun, a very prominent star, and a comet. Aww, Scar was trying to add to the scene. Cute!

He finished rolling up his sleeves, finally stepping out of the bathroom to see Scar leaning against the bar waiting for him. His eyes lit up (not from the glow, that was still there) as he looked over him. Coming up to him, he ruffled Grians fluffy hair. He cheeped, not expecting it.

“Those fit you well. Green is a good color on you!” He smiled genuinely.

“You are making it very hard to not bundle up in a nest and call it a day!” Grian huffed, not leaving from under Scars hand though. The annoying, nuisance and a Hero just laughs at him. Laughs! Rude. He crosses his arms over his chest.

“Come on Birdy, we have a mystery to solve.” He smiles, putting his hand down and motioning for Grian to follow him. “Here, these somehow found their way to my room after I carried you back from the infirmary.” He places a pair of boots in front of Grian, they look vaguely familiar and relatively his size, so he chooses to believe Scar (even if he remembers Scar saying he had spent the night in his room that night.)

They both get shoes on, and grab some concealable weapons before looking over at the door. It's both on their minds, the idea that those people are still looking for them. They would rather not run into them in the hallway. But also that is their alone way out.

Grian scans the room, looking for anything of interest that could help them out. It's just so barren, just basic. Until his eyes catch the still open balcony door. A smile tugs at his lip as he looks outside. But his train of thought is interrupted.

“No. Not happening.” Scar says, walking over to close the door. But Grian beats him to it, throwing himself in front of Scar.

“Come on!” Grian draws out the words with a giggle. “It's not that far down! Just hold on tight and I’ll glide us down! From here I could even probably glide all the way to Doc's place!” He smile mischievously up at Scar, who has a grimace.

“We just got dry- '' He starts only for Grian to barrel though.

“By gilding my wings will cover us mostly. And since you did such a good job preening them, they are quite waterproof right now!” Scar is trying to push past him, but he holds his stance.

“No Birdy!” He stops pushing, but he gives Grian a disappointed look. Grian celebrates inside, knowing he's winning.

“Do you have any better ideas? We certainly don't want to see those guys right now. By the time we get back tonight some other Hero would have probably dealt with them! For now we need to leave inconspicuously.”

“Oh yes, because flying from the top of the Hero Tower is in-inca-imcom-spi-cus! And what about Jellie?” As if hearing her name woke her up, Jellie lifts her head from Scar's shoulder with a loud ‘meow.’

“We just have to hold her, or, well, you hold onto me and I hold onto you both.” He taps his finger on his chin while he thinks, looking up at the ceiling and hoping to come off as mischievous as possible. Scar is just giving him an incredulous look, reaching up to pull his cat off his shoulders and hold her to his chest.

“You’ll kill us both!” He whines.

“Do you have a better idea, SmallGuy?”

“Well!” He stammers, pausing to look between the pouring rain outside and the front door. Grian watches his face as he finally drops his shoulders with a sigh, giving into Grians idea. “If we die, I’m going to haunt you forever.”

Grian barks a laugh, chirpy and high pitched. Truth be told, he also didn't really think this through before suggesting it. He just thought it would be fun, and the thing about the rian and his wings is a lie. He has no clue if they will actually stay dry, but no time like the present to find out!

“Perfect! Come here.” He walks them both out onto the balcony, the rain coming down before Grian raises his wing over Scar and Jellies heads. He too tries his best to stay under but the angle is a bit weird with Scar standing next to him.

Grian looks past the railing at the city before them. It's a fantastic view normally but with the downpour it makes it all blurry and gray. He takes a step towards the rail, trying to understand exactly where they are facing to try and glide them the closest he can to Doc's place.

Scar follows hesitantly, basically only following to stay under Grians raised wing. He has his eyes down, watching either Jellie or the concrete floor they are standing on. It makes Grian feel a little twinge of upset, knowing that he is the one making Scar do this. But he knows it's a necessity if they want to avoid those guys.

So, after getting the general idea of where he needs to fly, he turns to face Scar, raising both of his wings over them. It gets Scars attention, lifting his head until he meets Grian who is looking at him with a sly smile.

“Scared?” He asks cheekily. He watches as Scar sneers down and the tips of his ears go red.

“You know the answer to that, HotGuy doesn't really do heights.” He mumbles.

“Then don't look down! Here,” Grian tries to lighten the mood, but Scar just sighs and Grian pulls him close. He wraps his arms under Scars, holding him chest to chest while Jellie is squished between them. She lets her displeasure be known, she yowls grumpily as Scar holds her close. And though she's yelling, she still settles down quickly purring happily at the attention of two people on her.

“Let's just just get this over with.” He leans further into Grian, putting his head on Grians shoulder. Grian hears him grumbling unintelligibly as well. It makes Grian smile, holding him tightly before thrusting his wings down without warning.

Scar yelps loudly, bringing his legs up around Grians waist to hold on even tighter. Grian laughs, angling his wings to just let them glide. Surprisingly enough it is keeping the rain off of them quite well. It's quieter gliding then it is flying, not having the wind whip past his face. Insead they are steadily drifting downwards, gliding past a few skyscrapers as they go. This early he doubts anyone is at the offices yet, but if they were they would be getting a big surprise if they looked out the windows.

While most of the rain is being blocked off, he can still feel the mist on his skin. Flying with the robe on also felt a little odd, it was waving in the slight wind. It made him feel kind of pretty, the fabric flowing around him.

Looking around he would typically be able to see Sahara park as well as the lovely rooftop gardens people grow. But as it was, the dreary sky bled down into the scenery. It felt like even the colors on his clothes were muted and dull.

“Not much to look at, if you planned on it.” Grian says, squeezing Scar in place of punching his shoulder.

“Not something I was thinking about, but thanks Birdy.” He breathes out, keeping his head firmly in Grians shoulder.

“I mean. Normally you could see everything from up here. But with the rain-”

“Yup! I get it Birdy! Very sad and gray from all the way up here in the sky! Stop talking please!” At the same time he stops speaking, Jellie pops her head out from between them and blinks her wide eyes. She looks around and down, before looking up at Grian. He really hopes Jellie doesn't start freaking out because if she does then Scar will and he can’t handle that.

But she doesn't. She just meows politely, reaching up a paw to bat at Grians ear feathers. It makes Grian laugh, moving his head around as she tries to catch one. He stops moving though when he feels Scar breath hitch, Jellie seems to sense it too. Putting her paw down and just watching the world.

“We are only a few blocks away, Scar, it's alright.” They are only just above street lamp height now. But as long as he keeps the trajection, they will land just outside of the alleyway for Doc's door.

So he does just that, squeezing Scar just before his feet touch the ground. It was a bit of a rough landing, he stumbled a little with the added weight before standing sturdy. Scar slowly drops his feet to the ground, still keeping his head in Grians shoulder. Jellie jumps from his arms into the alley, deciding she has her own business to attend to, and Grian doesn't stop her.

He keeps his arms around Scar as well, pulling him closer now that Jellie is gone. Scar doesn't really hug back, but he also doesn't move. The longer they stand there, Grian still shielding them with his wings, the more it starts to feel like a hug. He's also getting the distinct impression that this is no longer about the flight as much as literally everything else. Neither of them are the type to ask for a hug, but Grian can catch a drift.

So he hugs him tight, swaying a little waiting for Scar to decide when it's enough. They didn't really talk too much about what happened this morning. And not only that, they haven't really talked about anything weird that's been happening recently.

Grian sighs, relaxing into the hug now feeling like it's for himself too. They need to talk soon. These dreams are getting weird. Revealing things to him that he's sure Scar doesn't want him to know… Scar had been purposeful in not telling him what his power actually was, and now due to something out of both of their control he now knows. He has to tell Scar…he just doesn't know how.

Scar pulls away first, swiping at his eyes before Grian can even look up at him. Soon after, Grian watches as he takes his sunglasses from his pocket and places them on his face, concealing his eyes yet again. While disappointed, Grian understands why; he always carried those glasses so he should’ve known he would wear them when visiting a villain.

Purposefully shoving his previous thoughts into the back of his brain, Grian does the totally healthy thing and moves on. Wanting to get this meeting with Doc to get going so they can finally get more information. They can worry about all other things when they are not on the mission. Perfectly, and totally healthy.

“See, I told you it would be fine!” He laughs, finally able to punch Scar in his shoulder. The Hero pretends it hurts, gasping and holding his arms like it's the worst injury ever. It seems that he too is intent on moving on from whatever the hug was really about.

“Yeah yeah until you and Jellie started to mess around! You two could’ve killed us!” He throws his hands in the arms as if really mad, shaking his head with a disapproving frown.

“But we didn't!” Grian shrugs back with a smile. He waves his hand flippantly, walking past Scar and into the alleyway. He hears Scar yelp, catching up behind him to stay under his wings.

Doc's door looks much the same, and Grian treats it the same as well. He just walks right in, much the Scar unamusement. What? It's unlocked, still unlocked that is, so Doc really just expects Grian to walk in. Probably.

Unlike last time though, nobody was waiting for them in the kitchen. Just a silent room looking much the same as it did the day before. This time, Grian just slightly shoves Scar in first, shaking out his wings behind them out the door to get the rest of the water off.

“Thanks for not doing that inside, I've stayed dry this long. It'd be a shame to change that now.” Scar remarks rolling his eyes. He's smiling though, not actually upset.

“Oh I wouldn't say they are completely dry yet!” He skips past Scar letting the door close behind him. As he walks by he makes sure to lift his wing to swipe one under Scars chin.

“Ack!” He shouts, Grian walking down the hallways towards the office they knew the entrance to the lab was. Scar spluttered, wiping off his chin and face.

“Told you they were still a bit wet!” He laughs, jumping into the room.

“You little…” He hears Scar say, knowing there's a smile in his voice. He giggles, and runs to the bookshelf and pulls the book he saw Doc pull yesterday. The redstone clicks, opening the door which he throws himself down right as Scar comes behind him. His hand just misses Grians robes and he cackles as he runs down the stairs.

“Get back here!” Scar laughs, following him down trying to catch Grian. They both run down laughing, Scar swiping his hand out trying to catch him but failing each time. They were getting to the bottom where Grian planned on running to hide behind Doc (and hope the villain is in a good mood for Grian playing around.)

“Not a chan-!” Grian starts, but it turns into a shout as he trips on one of the last steps, falling forward. Scar yells as well, leaning forward to try and catch him. He over corrects and Grian hears him shout louder as he falls forward after Grian.

Grian lands on the hard floor with a ‘oof’ then a few seconds later lets out a much louder ‘oof!’ when the hunk of Hero lands directly on his back, luckily, between his wings. Grian just stays on the ground not only embarrassed, but also in pain. He groans as Scar also seems to lay embarrassed. He shouldn't be hurt though since he landed on Grian!

“You two are so cute!” A higher voice speaks, making Grian force his hand into a thumbs up still laying face down. Scar, though, gets the message and scrambles up by placing his hands by Grians head and pushing himself to his feet. Good, cause if he rolled over then his wings would definitely have felt that.

“Hey,” Scar draws out the words, as if slyly leaning against the wall. “Gem, was it? Great to see you again!” He says, and Grian can perfectly picture his dumb blinding smile.

“Nice of you two to drop by again!” She laughs, much to Grians displeasure. Scar gives her a reluctant laugh back, suddenly deciding to help Grian up instead of continuing to talk to her. He kneels by Grians side, folding in his spread wings carefully before flipping him over.

Grian looks up at the amused face of Gem and the embarrassed, but concerned face of Scar. He sighs, throwing his arm over his eyes.

“Let me die here. I'm too embarrassed to go on.” Scar scoffs at Grians lament as Gem giggles.

“Don't be so dramatic.” Scar rolls his head to the side, mostly likely rolling his eyes as well.

“Ironic coming from you!” Grian smirks under his arm.

“Hey!”

“Don't be embarrassed! Ren once fell down all the way from the top! We had to get a healer over for that one.” Gem said, both Scar and Grian pausing. They were pretty sure villains weren't supposed to tell Heros about these things. But it was funny. So Grian decided to laugh with her, finally putting his arms under himself and sitting up.

“Telling the enemies my secrets Gemini?” The voice of the dog-eared villain said suddenly. Grian saw him walk around one of the larger contraptions, his tail wagging gently behind him. Stalking behind him was the creeper-goat-cyborg villain as well, looming over his back yet he didn't seem to notice or care. The dog, Ren, was it? Just had a jaunt as he walked and a dramatic voice to go along with it.

“Of course Ren! It knocks you down a few pegs.” She smiles cheekily. As Ren finally makes it to their sides he pouts, giving her upset puppy eyes.

“I need no knocking!” He shakes a fist at Gem, who takes it in stride with a laugh. Doc stands to the side, one hand on his hip while the other raises to pinch the bridge of his nose.

The dynamic between these three is interesting to Grian. While he's met with 77 a few times, and they were on good enough terms, he's always come off as someone who is very serious. Very spooky and at the worst of times, terrifying. Grian liked to press buttons and 77 not being exempt just cause he was a little scary.

But this was well outside of what he assumed 77s day to day life was like. Not only this wolf hybrids hyperactivity, but also taking on Gem. He didn't know the full story there, but she was supposed to be a Hero. Yet here she is hanging around villains. Or, at least, one villain and his sidekick.

“I’m surprised you came back.” Doc spoke, voice gravelly and low. Scar stood up properly, smoothing away dust from his pants before reaching his hand out for Grian to take. He does, letting Scar pull him to his feet, holding onto his hand for just a tad too long before dropping it.

“You know things we don't, so of course we are back.” Grian states, always swiping away the dust he picked up from the floor.

“Your side won't like this very much, I assume.” He smirks, crossing his arms. Ren and Gem stand at his sides, both looking interested in whatever they would say to that. Grian looks to Scar, who looks like he has a lot to say on the topic. His eyebrows pinches and lips set in a firm line. But even with his hands balled at his side, he stays quiet, letting Grian take the lead.

He feels a bit of warmth in his chest from it. Like Scar trusts him more now. It's dimmed a bit, knowing what they have to talk about still. Maybe it's best just to focus on what needs to be done right now, instead of what's to come. Yeah. That sounds better.

“I’m sure they will turn a blind eye as long as we solve this soon.” He says, completely speaking out his ass. He has no clue how much trouble they will get in for this. But confidence is key! “We said we would help each other, so that's what we came here to do.”

Doc drops his arms with another sigh, something he seems to do a lot when talking to others. He looks Scar and Grian up and down, his prosthetic eye adjusting and readjusting. The red light dims as he looks back down at their wrists for a long time. He feels like he is being appraised for value. And to be fair, when talking with a villain, he might be.

“Okay.” The tension Grian didn't even know he was holding in his shoulders, released. “But the bracelets have to come off this time. I don't trust them.” And it was back. Scar said they couldn't come off yesterday, why was it so important. Scar opened his mouth, probably to reiterate what he had said the day before, but he was interrupted.

“I made something to help…get them off. It will be undetected and you can put them right back on when you leave.” Doc stated simply. He waves them over to follow, turning his back walking whether they follow or not. Gem and Ren trail along behind him, quietly bickering as they go.

Scar and Grian turn to look at each other, judging on whether or not they would get in even more trouble if they are found with the bracelets off. Plus, if something goes wrong (not that it will, Grian trusts Doc enough not to pull anything. But as he's found out, sometimes things just don't go as planned when you're a Hero.) then they won't be able to get help. Then again, so far they have done nothing for Grian, and Scar hasn't said one way or the other if they've actually helped him.

Scar looks worried, making Grian second guess himself a little. A villain is always a villain…but Grian has met a lot of people over the years. And sometimes villains are just people who cause too much chaos. In a different world, he knows he would be the one walking next to Doc.

So, with a softened look he grabs Scars wrists gently and tugs him to follow the villain trio. Scar doesn't try and protest, just follows along lazily. They are too far in now to just not find out where things are going.

They were led to the same horse shoe shape as before, the desks filled with papers and microscopes. Much more than Grian could realistically remember, even though it had only been yesterday. But the big black box sitting off to the side was certainly something he would’ve remembered, if it was there.

Doc leads them over to it, lifting the top and looking down inside. Grian is a bit too short to look at, but Scar peers over with a puzzled look on his face.

“You put your arm in there, and I’ll take it off for you. The box itself will trick any tracker, making it look like you two are patrolling normally somewhere that is not here.” Doc huffs, he reaches a clawed hand out to them both, asking permission to touch them. Grian shrugs, letting Doc pull his hand over and into the box.

He can feel him place some sort of tool under the bracelet and around his pulse. He flicks his eyes to Scar, smiling to let him know that everything is okay. He still looks skeptical, looking between Grians face and then inside the box, watching Docs every move. Suddenly, a small stab of pain twinges through his wrist before he feels the bracelet release.

He slowly removed his arm, Scar taking his place. It goes much the same, including the small pinch of pain that flashes past his face. He too, pulls his arm out bracelet free (and Grian snorts at the tan line that is shown as well. But the look that Scar flashes at him makes him shut up with a smile.)

Doc places a lid over the top of the box, a satisfying ‘click’ accompanying as he does.

“Perfect! Don't forget those when you leave.” He hums, turning around to walk further along the desk. He looks as if he's searching for something, shifting papers and lifting vials as he grumbles to himself.

“So…” Scar starts awkwardly, Grian looking away from Doc to Scar assuming that he was trying to talk to him. He was surprised to find that Scar was actually talking to Ren. The wolf hybrid seems surprised too, his tail wagging and ears perked up happily. Grian smiled in interest at where this was going, Scar didn't like talking with villains but at least he was making an effort.

“What do you…do?” Grian facepalms as Ren tilts his head back with a laugh. Scars cheeks light up a light pink, grimacing awkwardly at how that question sounded coming out of his mouth. Grian would've never thought the HotGuy would have this much of a problem talking to villains in a casual sense. The poor guy…it's really showing that he didn't leave the Hero Tower often.

“You don't recognize me?” Ren says with a put on sinister smile. His fangs are on show, peeking out from his upper lip. He leans in close to Scar, who leans away as Ren gets closer. Grian holds back a snerk, knowing that Ren is just messing with him. But it sure is very funny to watch.

“Uhh, no. Can't say I’m familiar.” He slowly takes a step closer to Grian, watching as Ren huffs a laugh. Ren looks at Grian, dropping the creepy smile.

“And you don't either?” He's back to acting casual, tilting his head like a dog, err, bird, while asking Grian. He lets Scar lean into his side as he continues the conversation as casually as possible.

“I’m a little out of the loop when it comes to 77 and his sidekicks.” He shrugs. Suddenly, a booming laugh comes from their side making all of them snap to look. Doc is doubled over, laughing harshly and squinting his eyes at Ren. The dog crosses his arms with a huff and a scowl, Gem joining in on the laughing. Grian gets the sense something he said wasn't quite right.

“I’ll have you know I've been a villain longer than 77!” He whines. Now it's Grians turn to feel shocked. Looking at Scar, he also looks confused. He's pretty sure both of them would know of some wolf hybrid villain on the streets. Especially one that has the type of prosthetics he does.

“Ever heard of the villain ‘Grim?’” Gem suddenly says. She had sat down in Doc's chair and was spinning around slowly. She was still laughing, but seemed to cut the two of them a break in answering the question on their minds.

And it sure did run through their heads! And also stopped all their thoughts as well!

“Grim? As in GrimDog? The assumed dead leader of the Giga Corp. gang? Who disappeared years ago after an encounter with the Hero Magma, leaving both to disappear?” Scar uttered, and if Grian didn't know he would say the Hero looked a little…Starstruck?

“The one and the same! And I would've been dead if Doc didn't find me and build these bad boys!” He uses his natural hand to knock on his metal arm and leg prosthetic. “I don't know where Magma went. Probably felt bad or something. Good riddance honestly they weren't a good Hero anyways.” He harrumphs.

Grian had heard that story before, when he was still in foster care staying with some family. It had been big news across the whole server, not just Hermit Empire. Giga Corp. had been the biggest gang running around for years prior. They had a monopoly on major steel and a few lawyer agencies. But everyone knew they had underground ties as well, and once GrimDog had disappeared, his assets were taken over by both the city and the Hero Association as well.

It was surprising to Grian that this whole time he had known Doc, Grim had been with him that whole time. It's not that he really cares about the case, but seeing who was thought to be a dead man in front of him, is not something he sees everyday.

“I… When I was little I wanted to be in Giga Corp so bad.” Scar breathes, shocking Grian more than Grim being alive. What is happening? He feels like he's getting whiplash every other sentence. Clearly the others in the room were also shocked. Doc holding a file in one hand while the other has paused, Gem stops trying to spin slowing down naturally as she stares wide eyed at Scar, and then Ren who looks shocked but also has a smirk sliding across his face.

“Oh, did you now?” He smiles. Scar just nods, and Grian is sure he must have stars in his eyes.

“I liked reading the comics they made of you! And, the way you talked to people was inspiring!” Grian’s pretty sure that Scar has forgotten there is anyone else in the room. “And! And, you used to give a lot of money to food banks and stuff my mother and I went to a lot. She didn't like the comics after what happened to dad but you were so cool!” If Scar was a wolf hybrid, Grian is sure his tail would be wagging wildly.

His previous awkward disposition was forgotten in the face of his apparent childhood idol. He's not sure a Hero, let alone the number one Hero, should be admitting this. Grian doesn't know much, or really anything at all, about Scar's past. He knows what everyone knows, and also the things he was able to read from Scars archived file. All in all, it wasn't anything substantial.

He knows Scar, at 18, got into the Hero intern program. He had lived with his single mother in the city his whole life. But that was it.

“I’m flattered that a Hero such as yourself admires my work, HotGuy.” Ren dramatically bowed, and the spell was suddenly broken. Scar seemed to remember himself, hearing his Hero name, dropping his smile as quick as it appeared. He looked around the room at the spectators as he shook his hands out by his side. He placed them in his pocket, and looked down at the ground.

“Umm, yeah. Anyways, Doc, did you find the stuff?” He moved on quickly, back to being awkwardly nervous.

Grian doesn't really know what the right thing to do here is. Clearly Scar was excited to meet Ren, but he has to fight with the idea that he shouldn't because Scars is a Hero and Rens a villain. And it's unfortunate that Grian doesn't know much about Ren overall when clearly Scar does.

Right as Grian is about to say something about it (he wanted to show Scar that it was okay to be friends with villains as a Hero. Grian is, and he's a good person. Or well, at least he's an alright person. And Scar has to be the best person, or so he's been told, to be a Hero. But as he said himself, Ren used to donate to food banks for Void's sake.) he's interrupted by Doc clearing his throat. He walks over and hands Grian a large manilla folder, which he takes with little hesitation. Like everything else so far, they will have to talk about it later. Scar still looks uncomfortable and Grian would really like to understand why. What had the Hero Association filled his head with?

He turns around and places the folder on the desk, opening it up. Wordlessly Scar leans over his shoulder as he skims through the papers. He doesn't know what he's looking at, but he can certainly pretend.

He hears Doc sigh, nudging him over so he can pick through the documents himself. Grian lets him, pretending to be offended with a pout.

“This is all the relevant information I have. We’ve all been researching this together for a while now.” He takes several of the papers out and lays them next to each other. They look similar to the photos they saw yesterday of MooPop under the microscope.

“They've been teaching me how to do science!” Gem adds happily. She points to two of the photos. “I don't know what Doc told you about this stuff yesterday, but for some reason depending on where you get the drug, you get a different product. And, over the past few months, it's been getting stronger.” She pulls out a graph and hands it to Grian.

It had several dots set to different dates starting from a few months ago. As the dates got closer to today, the graph went up. Grian can only assume this was showing the potency of the drug getting stronger and stronger. He hands it to Scar so he can look at it closer.

“Okay, but what does MooPop do? Last I saw it, it was a little pill that got you high. Then suddenly one day it's this?” He takes one of the vials that were just sitting on the desk and spins it around.

“I wouldn't say ‘suddenly,’ I've noticed its gradual change for the last six years or so. Only noticed it getting dangerous around three years ago, and within the last few months it's becoming enough of an issue for me, a villain, to look into.” Doc moves away from the desk, holding one of the papers, squinting at it.

Six years? He's pretty sure that he was dealing with the pill form no less than three years ago. Weird. Must have been dealing with some older school drug dealers.

“But what does it do ?” Scar reiterates, dropping the graph back into the folder.

“Depends on if you have a power or not.” Ren sighs, crossing his arms while leaning a hip against the desk.

“We've found that if the person who takes it doesn't have a power, then it's a normal high compared to ice or another upper stimulant. But if you don't have a power, it's a strengthener. It almost doubles their natural strength as well as the normal high that comes with using it. Highly addictive for those with low level powers.” Gem finishes. How interesting… He felt his wings twitch remembering the drunk guy they met a few days ago.

“That guy Scar, the one who was too powerful. He drank that milky stuff before the fight, it had to have been MooPop…” He quietly speaks to Scar, getting his attention. His eyebrows pinch as if trying to remember more from that night, before his face goes slack with surprise. He nods his head slowly.

“Yeah, that makes sense… You're right.” He breathes, acknowledging him before looking back to Doc. The creeper was now holding a clipboard, flipping through some papers before pulling one out of the middle.

“That's not the worst part.” he hands the page to Grian and Scar, who hold it together as they look at it. The top of the document reads ‘Mortality Rates’ with yet another upwards curved graph.

“You said yesterday that it was killing people, is this about that?” Grian looks up from the page.

“Kinda!” Gem quirks.

“For some reason it's only killing powered people.” Ren shrugs.

“Well that makes sense,” Scar starts, also looking up from the paper. “If it heightens a power, it's easy to get addicted to, easy to build a resistance, then easy to overdose.” Grian is surprised at the intelligent answer, he knows he shouldn't be since Scar has been a Hero for longer than he's been a vigilante. But he still feels a little amazed. Scar doesn't even seem to realize he had a smart thought, his face set in a hard line as he converses with Doc.

“You would think, but it's almost completely random. You could take this drug for the first time, and could just drop dead.” Gem grabs a paper from where she was sitting and holds it out to Grian. He takes it, feeling like they printed out way too many papers when they could've just told them information. Still, he looks down at it while angling it to Scar as well.

“The vials I have been purchasing recently have been getting stronger, the little purple dots are multiplying yet the color hasn't changed.” The paper shows this in ratio form, the numbers from previous samples compared to newer ones. All of the latter samples have almost doubled levels from the months before.

“And you are sure that's what's killing people? How do you know?” Scar flicks his eyes up to Doc while not moving his head.

“Medical records. I have some…friends…who owed me a favor.” Scar scoffs, but doesn't speak further. “He works in medicine and was able to get me a list of recent drug related deaths, and from there I looked into who those people were. The deaths were overwhelmingly disproportionate to powered people.” Doc searches in a drawer before pulling out another folder and sets it next to the other.

Disregarding the apparent villain working in a hospital somewhere, it's hard to dispute Docs evidence. Grian turned around to look over the pictures from yesterday. Doc seems to have an answer for everything, and it's certainly a lot more information than they had before.

So, MooPop was suddenly lethal, but only for people with powers. Which, one could say it's also targeting people with powers since it's a strengthener. But why? What would the point be for something like that?

“Just to clarify,” Scar starts suddenly, “all these samples are from different dealers and different producers?”

“That's what I’m not quite sure about.” Doc counters, leaning on the desk directly in front of Scar and Grian. Gem and Ren take up his other sides as well, interested in this conversation. “I have just recently located where I believe a lab that produces this stuff is. We haven't been able to investigate it though, that's usually Rens job.”

“We can go.” Grian hears himself say not even thinking before he says it. He pauses, putting the paper down he was looking at, turning around to face a group of confused people. And while he didn't mean to say it, he will admit that it wasnt a bad idea. They still had the whole day ahead of them and so many questions left unanswered. Might as well continue to figure this stuff out.

“We-...You could do that. It's that last place I have to check and all we need is a sample, if there is any.” Ren gestured with his claws with a shrug.

“Woah woah!” Scar protests. Grian settles in for the argument, rolling his eyes where Scar doesn't see before facing him. He looks exacerbated, looking at Grian like he's grown a third head. “We can't trust this!”

“One moment fellas.” Grian smiles sweetly at the villain trio, before grabbing Scars arm and just turning them around. It's not actually privacy but it's dramatic enough to feel like it. “They literally have the most amount of information on this compared to us. We already made a deal with them and it's one small stealth mission. Get in, get out. And the quicker we do this, the quicker this case gets solved and we can go back to doing normal Hero things.” Grian speaks quickly, absolving all of Scars questions before he even asks them.

If looks could kill, Scar would have killed him where he stood. It makes him bark a laugh and a chirp. Scars pouting, but can't argue with his completely sound logic, so he just crosses his arms and turns back around. Grian does as well, making sure to lightly put one of his wings behind Scars back in apology.

“We’ll go!” He smiles while Scar frowns. The three just give them dubious looks, but none of them say a word about it.

“Okay…” Doc draws out the words, looking down at Ren who just shrugs. “Why?”

“It's easier this way, just to get it over with. You help us, we help you. Scar and I go in and get the stuff, and then we come straight back here.” Grian states, trying his best to give the CuteGuy charisma. In reality, they didn't need to go in place of Ren, but Grian just really feels like they should go on this to finish it off.

“I can go with if-” Ren starts, only to be interrupted.

“No. If we are going, then the least amount of people there, the better.” Scar interrupts Ren, talking with his hands. Grian got the impression that, while that is a true sentiment, he more so just didn't trust Ren and would rather just go with him. And while he did mostly trust Ren (as not only he's learned more of his background today, but also his association with Doc) he would also rather go on this mission with Scar, alone.

“Well. We can give you the address, and I’ll assume you need some bows.” Gem hummed, walking off to assumedly grab those things. Grian could tell that Scar was fidgeting. He was going from playing with his fingers to scratching at the back of his neck.

Doc, again gives them a scan once over. Whatever he's looking for, he doesn't seem to find it. He looks skeptical of them, and he's sure Scar is giving him the same look. They have a trepid agreement at best, but Doc seems to trust them enough for this. He turned away from them and so was Ren, both of them gathering papers with their backs turned. Gem had left the room to get them some weapons, so it was just left with Grian and Scar.

He hip checked Scar, getting his attention as he flipped around to stand directing in front of him. He brought his wings around the side to give them a little more privacy, as he reached up to Scars face. More particularly his sunglasses, which he slowly pulled down the bridge of his nose until he could see Scars bright orange eyes.

He looks concerned, which Grian expected. His eyebrows pinched, and mouth set in a soft frown.

“Hey, you trust me?” He asks like it's a question, and not something he already knows the answer to at this point. That question if asked not even two weeks ago would have a much different answer than it does now, and it makes his chest tight thinking about it.

“I do. But Grian, if we get caught doing this-” Scar reaches up and takes one of his wrists.

“Shh. We won't get caught, they haven't even checked in on us. This could be it, if the drugs are coming from there, then we take it back to the Council and then we raid the place. Then boom! Mission over. “ He smiled, hoping to get Scar to see what he does. He knows it's idealistic, but he thinks they've earned the right to be a little hopeful that this will be over soon. Their families are waiting out there for them, and they can't even go out and look.

“I’m just…worried.” He huffs, dropping his arm, but Grian follows with him. He intertwined their fingers, holding his hand.

“When are you not?” Grian smiles.

“I try not to be-”

“Knock knock!” Gem says from behind the wing cocoon, cutting their conversation short. He gives Scars hand a squeeze, reaching up his free one to push his glasses back. It gets him a smile, so he smiles back, before pulling back and dropping his wings.

Gem smiles as well, a hint of mischievousness in her eyes, as she hands them some 77 branded bows and quivers. Scar sighs deeply, no doubt even more worried about being recognized in 77 merch. Grian just scoffs and starts to strap them on along with Scar. (Some part of Grian is deeply saddened by this, knowing that his bow is still broken back at the Hero Tower. He's not even sure when they can go back for it now… Scar said they could fix it so he will hold him to that.)

Doc walks up to them, and hands them a folded up piece of paper. Scar took it and put it in his pocket.

“That's the address, and directions. It should be a compound above ground, but I've got intel that the lab is below ground. Meet us here later tonight with the stuff and then we can go from there, alright?” Doc said lightly, he ran his metal hand through his dark hair. Grian narrowed his eyes, why did he seem nervous too?

Grian and Scar look at each other, each holding a bow in hand. Grian shrugs his shoulders before looking away.

He hopes it's not raining anymore…it's probably going to be a long walk.

Chapter Text

Luckily, it was barely even misting now. They were able to just walk down the street without Grian having to cover them with his wings. Not that he would be burdened if he had to, he wouldn't mind.

They walk side by side on the pathway away from Docs lab. They had been given the address on a piece of paper, along with a small map and after vaguely recognizing where it was, they were heading in that way. Gem had also handed Scar a little bag to attach to his thigh. She explained that it was somewhere to put the vials when they got them, and since Scars quiver was on his thigh it would be easier to get to.

It didn't make much sense to Grian, considering that his robe was outfitted with plenty of inside pockets. But he chose to just let go, wanting to just go out and get this over with.

They had taken the green colored bows and red tipped arrows that Ren offered, putting them around their shoulders and into the quivers. Doc gave them instructions to find them at a new location neither of them had ever been to if things went south. He seemed serious and the tone in which he talked sent shivers down Grians spine.

After a few more short goodbyes, they set off to the supposed drug lab.

When they looked at the map they saw the lab was just on the other side of Sahara park, just before Tumble river. If Grian remembered correctly, it was actually an old abandoned H.E.P. warehouse.

After the Mycelium war ended, the buildings used were just left behind to rot. Most of the buildings in the Hermit Empire were just storage for the pesticides used. Ultimately, when the Hermit Empire lost the war, the warehouses were just left to succumb into disrepair.

The Hero Association had been the one to fund these warehouses, since they had a majority of the Heros fight in the war. (Grian remembers seeing the Hero TFC hold news conferences when he was really little about the construction of them, before the Hero became outspoken about his disdain for the war and subsequently disappeared.) They had been emptied years ago and now were mostly just used for angsty teens to let their creativity out.

There were rumors though. Rumors that under a lot of these buildings were laboratories where the pesticides were made. And while Grian had never really believed the rumors he heard on the streets before, he was now starting to. It made sense, really, to have the destructive products to be made in house. Nobody had ever found the entrance to one though, so most believed that the rumors were just that.

But if Doc was certain that the drugs were being made here, then there has to be some sort of lab somewhere in the building. Maybe they should have asked more questions about how he knew that the lab was even there. Well, they were about to find out for sure he supposed.

He looked up to Scar, the Hero leading them around the Hero Tower a few blocks away from them. The streets were calm as they walked. Most people having stayed home because of the heavy rain earlier in the day. It was good for them though, since nobody should recognize them as they traveled.

Though, right now there isn't much that would identify them as the new Hero duo. He's still dressing in Tycoons old outfit, no makeup and a bow that looks nothing like his normal one. Scar isn't much better, basically dressed in loose black clothing. His glasses stayed on, and of course his scars were all still there, but otherwise they both are vaguely recognizable.

“Do you think if people saw me, they would think I'm cosplaying Tycoon?” Grian asked, bumping shoulders with Scar. The Hero scoffs with a smile, looking down at Grian instead of the sidewalk. He roams his eyes over Grian laughing at some of the places where it doesn't fit too well.

“They would probably think it's one damn good cosplay. Did you make it yourself?

“No no! My friend gave it to me!” He smooths down the front of the robe. He twists his hips a bit to see it sway around his ankles. Scar was taller than him, so he's pretty sure it's supposed to sit a little higher. He can feel the warmth in his chest come back remembering these are Scars clothes. He runs his fingers over the embroidered animals on the sleeves with a small smile.

“Oh lucky you. Must be a cool friend to give you something like that!” Scar laughs.

“I wouldn't say cool ,” Grian drawls the words until Scar rolls his eyes. Grian takes his arm though, hanging off it as he chirps a laugh as well. “He's alright though.”

“Just alright? Wow Birdy, does he mean so little to you?” He holds an offended hand to his chest, a little too offended to pretend he's not talking about himself.

“Well I only met him a few weeks ago. Before we hated each other so I’d say we came a long way.” His sincerity seems to catch Scar off guard. His hand drops to his side as he tilts his head back and forth thinking, dropping the act.

“I didn't hate you Birdy, I just think I didn't get you.” He murmurs over, it almost feels like he's embarrassed to admit it. He coos, bringing his wing around to brush up against his back.

“I don't think I got you either. But that's okay, because now we understand each other better. And now, I know that you are small and annoying!” He says cheekily, hugging Scars arm as he shouts in offense.

“You would say that before you knew me!” He whines tilting his head back to the sky. He pretends to be annoyed, but the small smile tells Grian otherwise.

“Huh, maybe I did get you then!”

“Birdy…” He huffs, shaking his head.

“Yea yea we are best friends now, and do everything together. Like real besties!” Grian remarks sarcastically, though they both know it's not far from the truth. “Oh, how the times change.”

“Please never call me ‘bestie’ ever again.” Scar states semi seriously. Grian immediately busts out laughing holding onto Scars arm. He was not expecting Scar to latch onto that part of the sentence. But he sounded so serious for some reason; it came out of nowhere.

“O-okay, any reason why?” Grian giggles. They enter the park, walking along the gravel and dirt path through the trees.

“No not really, just sounds weird.” Scar speaks, waving his free hand as he speaks.

“Fair enough.” He huffs back.

He looks around the park, still wet and empty. Typically, it was pretty busy since it was the biggest, and really the only, park in the city. Not that Grian hung out around here all that often anyways. Not many crimes took place in the area, and as such Grian didn't really come over here.

But it was a pretty park; it used to have a completely indoor botanical garden at the north end (now closed, for some reason Grian never knew about), Tumble river running alongside the east end and little benches scattered all around and under the trees. The path they were on cut through the park lengthways up to the north eastern edge. From there, the warehouse would only be around two blocks away.

They walk the rest of the way quietly and peacefully. Pointing out little things as they walk they carry small, light conversation (Scar had pointed out a few empty spaces where there were clearly supposed to be trees. Grian immediately recognized the area as the place where his dream took place, the one with the Dragon Witch fight. He holds Scars arm tighter and quickly walks away. He could feel the confusion coming off of Scar, but he doesn't mention it.)

Finally, they stepped off the flattened dirt pathway back onto the concrete sidewalk. Grian saw the warehouse come into view even from a few blocks away. Large and imposing with an 8 foot barbed wire fence surrounding the whole parameter. Its chain link was rusted over and clearly not taken care of.

For being property of the Hero Association, he would've thought they would at least keep it secure. There were many holes cut into the fence, possibly by teens or people looking for a place to stay when the weather got rough.

It was made mostly from gray bricks, crumbling and mossed over. Green vines were growing up the side as nature tried to reclaim it. Grian was surprised that, considering what the building had been made for, the plants were growing strong enough to make a stance. It was almost inspiring how much they've grown, that despite the pesticides made on the inside the world was willing to take it back. He's sure there's a beautiful statement in that thought somewhere, but he didn't feel like trying to make it.

Besides the crumbling bricks, paint was chipping off the outside. The building looks like it was supposed to be covered in purple and white, but the weather had its way. Most all the windows were broken or boarded over. Glass was scattered around under the window sill and Grian could only assume it was the same on the inside as well.

The roof looked like it was holding on the best it could. Two large chimney stacks rising up, those too built in brick. One of them was almost completely toppled. It looked like all it would take for it to come down was one harsh wind gust.

Grian wondered why they just didn't tear it down. It's an eyesore, surely, for such a well respected area. Not only that, but it was a safety hazard for anyone who went inside. As well as the huge amount of space that was taken up could be used in a much better way. Its irony at its finest if he thought about it.

The whole reason the Mycelium war even took place was because of the expansion of the Hermit Empire. They lost, yet they learned nothing. Still building in concrete and adding no parks or nature reserves. Yet buildings like these are just left here when it could be something useful like housing or medical buildings or even a library.

Grian was much too young to do anything when the war took place, as was Scar. But now that he's older he's very aware that this city was on the wrong side of history.

Sure the war wasn't that long ago, he was ten when it was officially declared over. What was that, fourteen years ago now? Fourteen years since the war was over, sixteen since his parents died in the crossfire. Oh how time flies.

Though, he supposes if they do have an underground lab underneath the building then it would make sense if they didn't want to tear it down. But if the outside of the building was anything to go off of, then an unkept lab would also probably be in some serious need of renovation.

They approach the building cautiously, checking over their shoulders to make sure nobody sees them slip through the rusted fence. Scar turned back and gave the hole they came through a dirty look, making Grian roll his eyes. Sure, some kids probably illegally came in here. But on the bright side, they got in super easily.

“Silver linings.” He smiles at Scar, knowing what he was thinking. It makes the Hero shake his head before continuing forward.

Beyond the fence, there was around 20 feet of empty space before getting to the actual building. It looked like there was supposed to be green grass filling it up, but it was long since dead. Random piles of glass alcohol bottles and cigarette butts littered across the law.

Again, for being in such a well to do area, Grian is quite surprised at how overlooked this place is. They would be naive Heros to think that crime never found itself here. An abandoned warehouse that apparently isn't monitored even though the Hero Tower is blocks away? Yeah the fence will probably keep them out. Grian smiles to himself gazing back at the very large hole in the fence.

Scar leads them up to a rectangular hole in the wall where there was clearly a door missing. It hinges still intact, but the door is completely gone. The once-painted-white bricks are deteriorated enough that Grian thinks the door would probably help keep them up at this point.

Scar, presses himself against the wall, dragging Grian with him. He cranes his neck around the door frame, checking to see if anybody is inside. Considering the rain recently, Grian is pretty sure the only people they will have to worry about being inside are homeless people. But Scar lets out a sigh of relief before slinking inside. Grian follows quietly behind, assuming that he found nobody of immediate problem.

It's pretty empty; empty and dark. It's filled from floor to ceiling with metal shelves bolted to the ground. Rows and rows of shelving completely devoid of contents, making it to where there was no cover anywhere. About them were around three stories of empty shelves as well. The ceiling was metal, caving in slightly but being held up by said selves.

Grian was able to follow the two chimneys all the way down, running into the ground. Huh, weird place for chimneys to lead…

Looking around more, Grian sees not much other than a few of the plants finding their way from the windows to the inside. If it wasn't so dark, then they would be able to see wall to wall.

Sure it was mid-day, but the overcast sky mixed with the covered windows, it was quite hard to see. And Grian knew that if it was hard for him, then it would be even harder for Scar. Luckily, there were some windows that weren't covered, letting streams of light persist through. Dust floated throughout the air, tickling Grians nose as he inches forwards ahead of Scar.

It was very quiet. He could hear himself breathing and when Scar takes a step. That being said, there had to be nobody in here. Not only was there nowhere to hide, but with it being so quiet they would be able to hear them.

This was the place Doc told them to go to, right?

He turns to face Scar, breathing near silently as he watches the Hero stumble a little. Grian jumps forward to catch his arm, steading him.

“Can’t see?” Grian asks. He sees Scar shake his head.

“Not really.” He whispers back. Grian nods back, taking his hand from his arm and running it down until he grips his hand. He laced their fingers together before smiling up at Scar. “That'll work.” Scar says, smiling back.

“It would probably help if you take the glasses off.” Grian jokes, pulling Scar off the side. He supposes that they should probably at least walk up and down the aisles searching for anything off.

“Yeah, probably.” Scar remarked yet didn't move to take them off. Grian just moved on without mentioning it.

“Is Doc sure this is the place? There's nobody here…” They continue to talk in hushed whispers, as if there actually was somebody in the warehouse.

“Don't be too hasty Birdy. I don't think a huge drug lab would just be in the middle of a run down warehouse. We are only blocks away from the Hero Tower, in a building owned by the Association. It wouldn't be out in the open.” Scar states smartly.

Not for the first time Grian thinks about how much Scar knows about this world; sometimes it's easy to forget he's been a lone Hero for a few years.

“Well, then where is it?” They walked lengthways down the warehouse, turning when they got to the end to continue down the width.

“It's probably underground. I had seen a sch-sk-ematic in the archive once, most of these abandoned pesticide warehouses had a small bunker built in for injured Heros. It might be right….here!” Scar stopped them halfway through the width, directly under a shattered window. The light filtered through landing directly on a slightly discolored patch of concrete.

“How did you…?” Grian pulled on his hand leading them over to it. Kneeling down, he starts to pat his hand along the edges searching for the way to open it.

“Guess I'm just lucky!” Scar jokes, catching Grian so off guard he tripped over his shoes. He squeezed Scars hand to balance himself as he snapped his head over to look at the Hero. He looked shocked to see such a reaction from Grian, switching over to a nervous laugh.

Did he know? Did Scar know that he knew about his power? That's impossible. It was just a dream, there's no way that Scar could know what he dreamed about. Was there? Is that part of luck? Knowing things that involve him and being able to guess correctly?

“Umm Birdy, kinda hurting my hand..” Scar gritted with a forced smile. Grian immediately released his much too tight claw. Pulling back as Scar shook his hand out and rubbed it with his other.

“Oh sorry!” Grian shakes his head out of his thoughts. He can play this off, surely. “So is that your power then Mr. Mysterious?” Grian said overly sarcastic, still squatting on the ground. He already knew the answer and this really wasn't the time or place for this kind of conversation. But for some reason he just wants to hear Scar confirm it. And if he has a weird reaction then he can play it off as a sarcastic joke.

Scar seemed reluctant to answer the question, a confused look passing through his face.

“Don’t uhh, don't worry about it. I think we should get on with the mission.” He deflects, reaching back to scratch the back of his neck. He squats down next to Grian, running his hand against the seams of the discolored floor. It's a fair enough diversion from the question that Grian just goes back to looking for the handle. He's a little disappointed, but he wasn't really expecting a true answer anyways.

Scar finds a handle first, a little depressed edge he was able to put his fingers under. Grian steps back, letting Scar have the room to lift it up. But before he does, he looks up at Grian with a serious look. It makes Grian feel stiff, his heart beating a bit faster.

“If there's something down here, we need to have a plan.” Scar starts, reaching his other hand to his thigh pulling out a dagger from the satchel Ren gave him. Grian follows suit, instead grabbing some throwing knives from his boots.

“Stay together?” Grian asks, understanding that both of them have never really done something like this before. “It's underground, so escaping might be hard if we are caught.” He explains, feeling a bit like he's being quizzed.

“Stay close, if not together. Splitting up will make it easy to pick off if there are multiple rooms. Good job Birdy.” Scar smiles. Grian chirped back, slightly proud. “ If there is a drug lab down here, and if we get caught, their first thought is going to be to kill us, no questions asked.” He continues as Grian feels a little dread rising in him. “We should have the same model: if we get caught down here, shoot first then ask questions later.” Scar finishes, grim sounding.

It's almost ironic, Scar sitting here telling Grian he will have to shoot to kill down here when he knows that Grian doesn't tend to do that. Grians not sure what they will face down there, but with everything going on recently he's truthfully not sure where his line is anymore. He just nods over to Scar, staying silent. He seems to take it as a sign to continue.

“I'm not sure if it's going to be cramped, but if it is then bow shots will be hard to make. Stick to close quarter combat. Stay quiet, and stay safe Birdy.” He starts to lift the metal door, but Grian reaches out to stop him.

“You too, Scar. Stay safe.” And without waiting for a response, he helps lift the door. Together they flip it over and silently place it on the dusty floor.

It's a staircase down, of course it is. Grians wings twitch, realizing that he's actually going into an unknown place underground . He looks up to Scar, the Hero giving him a sad glace but he still stands reaching a hand out.

Grian takes it, if not for the dark this time then for the comfort. They take the first step down, Scar reaching over and pulling the cover back over them as they walk further down. It's all concrete, and significantly better kept concrete as well. At least when compared to the stuff above. There were bright lights lining the path down with a well used railing bolted into the wall.

Grian looked around, hoping to not see any cameras mounted anywhere. So far it seemed they were in the clear on that front. It just continued down and down with no end in sight. At some point they started to curve into a spiral, getting tighter and tighter as it did so. Soon enough they couldn't even walk side by side anymore.

He had to pull his wings in close making sure they didn't brush uncomfortably against the walls. Using his free hand, he has to hike the hem of the robe up a bit so as to not trip. He sure it's just because it's too long on him, but he would really rather not ruin the hem by tripping then ripping it. He chittered quietly, annoyed at having to do both those things. But Scar squeezed his hand, and they continued to walk down stairs.

Suddenly as they were walking, the gray concrete walls became white. It's the opposite of a seamless change, a harsh line divides the two colors. Every inch is painted over including the stairs. It made the lights seem even brighter, Grian blinking a few times to get used to it. For the first time Grian was a little jealous of Scars sunglasses.

Finally, they reached the bottom after a few more minutes. It's hard to guess, but if Grian had to, he'd wager they had to be at least three or four stories below the ground. How many buildings in this city were built underground? It seems like every place he's been to recently has some secret bunker. He wonders if they knew about each other, having to avoid hitting major water and electrical pipes. He ends up giggling at the thoughts, Scar shooting him confused look.

As they approached the bottom step, they crouched down low. The stairs landed them in a very open room, Grian would be overwhelmed at the amount of white if he wasn't used to it from the Hero Tower. A few wooden boxes were scattered around, all had their lids were off resting either on the floor or against their sides.

Across from them was an open door, while on either side were two closed ones. The ceiling is vaulted, and when Grian looked above the door right in front of them, he had to pause. His heart sank straight from his chest to the floor. There, painted was the creepy Hero Association seal. Its unblinking eye, perfectly preserved and unpeeling, like someone was taking care of it. The slogan, ‘Eyes in the Skies Keep Everyone Safe’ plastered under it, written in gold as the all seeing eye started them down with its purple iris. Grian felt a shiver go down his spine, turning to look at Scar.

The Hero didn't look nearly as perturbed as he did, scanning the room in haste before grabbing his arm and pulling them over to hide behind the closet box. He gave Scar a confused, and probably very concerned look. Scar just tilted his head, like he didn't know what Grian was asking about. Then it hit Grian like a ton of bricks: they never told Scar.

Dream Grian said that the Association was involved with making MooPop, but that they didn't want to tell Scar about it. So he doesn't know. Little things are starting to click into place, and this is literally the worst timing for it too. Boatem, minus Scar, was messing with things that maybe they shouldn't have. And suddenly, mysteriously, they are missing and Scar doesn't know why?

Grian swallows thickly but his throat is dry. He knows he is staring off, but he can't stop his train of thought. What happened to Boatem? Just taking a look over his shoulder he's sure he can take a solid guess on what. But…Scar…How does he tell Scar?

Suddenly, Scar snaps in front of his face, shoving his shoulder harshly. He looks up quickly to find Scars face a bit too close. He looks upset, reaching up and clapping Grians cheek not unkindly. He shakes his head, trying to think of the last thing they were talking about to appear as though he didn't have the biggest revelation of his entire career.

He tries to see Scars eyes through the glasses, just wondering if they will be orange. He knows the answer, but he just needs something to think of anything else. But alas, he can't see his eyes. Eyes! They were talking about the eye!

Grian draws out a sigh, gesturing over his shoulder at the giant eye. He pretends he was just messing with Scar, trying to get him to understand why he was so confused about the eye, and luckily, it seems to work. He draws his head up a little to peek over the box to where Grian pointed, before he pulls himself back down with a nod.

Then, he just shrugs at Grian before leaning really close to Grians ear.

“This is an old Association building. They used to plaster that all over the place, it's not too weird.” He whispered so quietly that Grian almost didn't hear him, which is a feat.

He supposed that reasoning would make sense if Grian didn't already know what the Association was actually doing. But he doesn't tell him this. And it hurts knowing that Grian is doing the same as Boatem did. He's directly keeping information from Scar, just because it's convenient.

Scar explained away the Associations presence here in his mind, and sure, this place could still just be an old lab for making pesticides to kill off the Resistances plants. And while Grian isn't going to correct him, something about it just felt off about it. Too perfect or too well taken care of. Speaking of that though, this whole room is too well intact.

Looking at the walls and floor stood testament to that. Nothing was crumbling, or covered in dust, no paint chipping and the air smelled new and clean. Scar must have realized that too, scanning the walls trying to find at least one imperfection. Finally their eyes landed on each other, most likely thinking very similar things. This place has to be frequented.

Grian wishes he could tell Scar everything right now, but he knows now is not the time or place. So he focuses back in on the present, intent on telling Scar when they get back to Docs with the evidence.

Grian listens very closely to their surroundings and there are definitely people down here, he can hear voices and footsteps, all muted suggesting that they are all rooms away. He peeks his head around the box, knowing that they are safe to at least do that.

“The boxes are empty.” Scar whispered at his side. Grian watched as he leaned back down after stretching his neck to look over into the box. He nodded once, signifying he understood.

“There's people down here, but far away. We need to find out where they are keeping the drugs.” Grian inches his way around the boxes, glazing inside just in case Scar missed something. It was just an empty wooden box that, if he looked super close, maybe he could see a milky substance at the bottom.

They split up slightly, both heading over to one of the closed doors just to check and see if they are unlocked. When Grian places his ear to the door, he hears nothing. So he reaches up and tests the knob only to find that it is in fact locked. Turning around he sees Scar in much the same position. So both of the offshoot doors are locked, leaving them with one option unless they wanna pick the locks.

Grian motions to his hair, reaching in and acting like he's pulling a bobby pin out. Scar just shakes his head, then jerks it to the open hallway. Grian pretends to pout, kinda wanting to prove that he can also pick locks, but Scar just silently scoffs and rolls his eyes with his head following along.

He leads them over to the hall, pausing to make sure that they don't hear anybody coming before they head down that way. As they walk they make sure their footsteps are virtually silent, making sure they stay vigilant as they come up upon off-shotting doors. They tiptoed past the closed ones that they pass, but for any open doors they pressed themselves against the wall. Slowly, whichever was closest would crane their head around to search the room.

They were getting lucky, every room that they came upon had nobody in it. As well as there being nobody in the hallway. Grian knew he shouldn't be thinking about it, knowing why that was, but it was hard not to. He knew that under Scars glasses his eyes were bright orange. He knew that they were getting lucky because of it. Or well, Scar was and he was just being lucky through proxy. But either way, Scar is using his power almost all day long. Right now, it makes sense. But when they are hanging out in Grians room? Why?

And that brings up the question of just how long does he really use his power during the day? He knows he heard Oli say something about it being dangerous…He never really looked into power stuff since he didn't have one…

“Birdy!” Scar whispered in his ear, making him jump. Scar didn't elaborate, grabbing his arm and pulling him off to the side. He dragged him through a door, pressing his back up against a wall uncomfortably. Scar followed, standing chest to chest in a small closet as Scar closed the door behind him. Grian goes to speak but finds a hand over his mouth before he gets the chance.

Grian narrows his eyes upsetably, then he hears it. The sound of footsteps and animated speaking walking right past the door. He was so wrapped up in his own thoughts he didn't even hear people walking their way.

He looks up to try and catch Scars facial expression in the almost pitch black closet, he is once again left speechless. The only light Grian can see is through Scars glasses. Dimmed through the dark frames, but he can see his glowing eyes through them nonetheless. So he was right, Scar is using his power right now.

Scar takes his hand off of Grians mouth dropping his arm by their sides. They both wait quietly for the footsteps to get further and further away before Scar finally says something.

“What is with you spacing out?” He breathed. Grian could vaguely see the shape of his mouth set in a deep frown.

“Sorry. I just-”

“We need to be careful, Grian.” Scar interrupts Grian, taking a hold of his hand and squeezing a little too hard. “Keep an ear out please.” Scar says softer.

“Sorry. Lost in thought.” He whispers back, feeling bad at almost getting them caught. His heart is beating out his chest, and his hands feel clammy. He rubs his hands against the smooth texture of his robes trying to get rid of the anxious feeling. There's just so many things he's been thinking about recently and it's all bubbling up now.

“Well, find your way back out, we have a job to do.” Scar says not unkindly. Grian knows he's being HotGuy right now, focused on the mission first and foremost. And really, he should be CuteGuy too. But his brain is all mixed up right now, and he can't think super straight knowing the things he knows right now.

But they can't talk here. Not in a closet, owned by the Hero Association, that he knows were manufacturing drugs, in front of Scar, where he knows his secret power, from random dreams he can't help having, it's all so much to think about…

“Let's keep going.” Scar whispers. He turns around, it's a tight fit, but he manages. Grian feels him lean over to presumably press his ear against the door. Grian doesn't have to, knowing that he doesn't hear anybody on the other side. But Scar does though, making sure himself that he doesn't hear anything.

Grian then sees the light pour through a crack in the door as Scar slowly opens it. They both slip through, Scar closing it behind them as quickly as he can.

They continue walking silently, finally making it to the end of a hallway being forced to turn left. After looking around the corner and seeing it, too, was clear, they shuffled down. It was all the same white walls, white floors, white ceilings, interrupted by a few doors here and there.

Then finally, a different looking door. Possibly something, considering the door had a fingerprint scanner. It looked just like the ones in the Hero Tower, down to the color of the box and scanner itself. The door was completely sealed otherwise, not even a handle.

Grian and Scar looked at each other, Grian getting a bad feeling in his stomach. He had a feeling he knew how they could get into the door, and he didn't like it.

Scar walked up to the scanner, looking at Grian as he placed his thumb on the device. It made a small beeping sound, before turning green, making both of them tense up a bit. So, this place is still connected to the Hero database…Not good from Scars perspective and very not good from Grians, considering what he saw in his dream.

He just shakes his head, Scar needs him to be present, so he pushes ahead and gently thrust the door open. He hadn't heard anybody in a while, so the place must be huge. But it also meant that they didn't have to worry too much about people being in random rooms.

The room was dim, but Grian could see perfectly what they had just stumbled upon. The lab. A wide open room with tables among tables filled with tubes and burners. A few were still boiling as Grian and Scar walked further in.

It was not like anything Grian had ever seen before. On the closest table were plates with a white substances and purple gloves laying next to it. There was an open book as well, something about numbers and elements he doesn't even know. It seems important though, and if Doc is trying to figure MooPop out then maybe this could help. So he grabs it, intent to hand it to Scar.

He turns around to find the Hero scanning the tables walking back and forth. He looks serious, like he's looking for something and to be fair, he is. But he's not going to find it here clearly. Every counter Grian looks at has some form of an incomplete MooPop. It's either a powder or some clear liquid. But nothing milky and white like Doc is looking for.

Glancing around the room further, Grian spots another door and the furthest wall, also with a fingerprint scanner. Interesting…

He walks over to it, getting Scars attention as he places his own thumb on the scanner. It beeps, then beeps again, tuning purple. Grian takes his hand away, not recognizing what that means. But the door still opens, a little click and ‘creek’ as it swings on its hinges.

That's really weird…He looks to Scar hoping to get an answer but he looks just as baffled. Squinting into the room, Scar looks to see if he can catch any trap that might be inside. But after finding nothing, he just walks in.

Grian feels a little hint of panic, not trusting the idea that it was just a fluke, but he follows Scar in, nonetheless. Walking in, it looks like they finally hit the jackpot. There were wooden boxes stacked on top of each other, some off to the side and others neatly piled in the corners. In front of them there was yet another door, a path cleared nicely from them, to it. Boxes stacked high on either side.

Walking close to Scar, they leave the door open to escape through later, planning on just going out the way they came. They walk over to a lone box on the ground, separated from the rest. The top pops off easily, not even nailed down like it should be.

Grian holds it open, taking a look inside. Once again, he is incredibly shocked at the sight before him. The box is chalked full of the same little vials that the bartender had handed him the other night. There has to be well over a thousand in this one box, and looking over his shoulder he sees several more boxes in this one room. He takes a deep breath in, and then out…That's a lot more than he was expecting.

He glances back in as he feels Scar reach in and grab one of the vials. He watches as he slips it into his thigh bag, then reaches up to help Grian close the lid. They do so silently, smiling as they finally find what they came here for.

It's a momentary celebration, as it is immediately ripped from them at the sound of glass shattering at their feet.

Both them whip around, pulling their bows around their heads while nocking an arrow. Grian balked at the sight they saw. Several people had somehow been able to enter the room without either of them hearing. They all had masks on, but he was sure he recognized a few of their outfits. He just couldn't name them.

They all had different weapons, some guns, some bows and others just had their powers active. They were vastly outnumbered here as well, in an enclosed space in a facility that they don't know the layout of. This was very bad.

Suddenly, he smelled something very sweet. His energy felt like it was being sapped out through his feet. A cooling sensation starting from there and traveling up. He looks down seeing the broken glass seeped in a bluish liquid that looked to be steaming. It must be what he was smelling since it was getting stronger as he looked down.

“Shit!” Scar shouted, letting an arrow fly hitting one of the people in the shoulder. They yelled as they dropped down, Grian deciding to let an arrow fly as well. It missed, hitting that wall. What? He doesn't miss…

All hell breaks loose, people shouting and yelling while others spread out trying to surround them. Luckily, where they were was close to the other door against the wall. So it would be very hard to completely surround them.

“Birdy, get down!” Grian does as he told without hesitation. Jumping behind the box they had just been looking in, nocking more arrows as he went down. “Fuck!” Scar shouts as he goes down.

Scar meets him behind the box, the sound of guns going off as well as more glass breaking around them. He's having trouble focusing. Shit, what was that stuff?

He shoots off a few more arrows, one hitting the wall while another grazes one of the necks. Good enough, as they drop down holding onto their throat he reaches down and takes out a throwing knife. He throws it true, hitting them dead center in the forehead. He doesn't linger on it long enough to think about it.

He turns to see Scar holding his thigh, blood seeping through his fingers and he presses down. Somehow, some way, the luckiest man Grian will ever know had been shot. His eyes were squinted in pain, glassy and wet from tears. Surprised at actually being able to see his eyes, Grian then saw that his glasses were off to the side, looking like they had been knocked off when he was shot. Those things never came off that easily before…

He trailed his eyes back over to Scar, catching his gaze. They both look into each others eyes, Grians heart sinking as he sees that something his very, very wrong. Scars eyes, while they were in the most dangerous situation they've ever been in, were a cool honey brown and not their bright, luck producing orange.

“Damn it! Shit, fuck!” Grian starts saying all the curses he knows as he shuffles over to help Scar press on his wound. “What happened?” Grian shouts, no longer caring about being quiet.

“Bullet, in and out, and it hurts like a bitch too.” He looks towards the ceiling as if trying to hold in his tears as Grian adds his weight to the wound. When he looks back down down he scans the room almost frantically, a manic look on his face. “I don't have anything to wrap this…” He grits through his teeth.

No, they don't, Grian knows. They didn't prepare for this level of things breaking down and falling apart. He too looks around the room, eyes searching for anything that they can use, hoping they get lucky. He winces at the idea. His eyes land suddenly on the green fabric pooling around his own thighs. Lots of excess cloth that was quite honestly in the way… It hurts his heart a little knowing what he has to do.

Grian takes his hands back, grabbing his bow off the ground before firing a few more around their makeshift barricade to make sure they all stay away. The attack hasn't stopped, but Grian is able to injure a few more of them.

Arrows and bullets keep whizzing past, and to be quite honest Grian isn't sure how many are even left. Surely there can't be too many since they have stormed over to their blockade and took advantage of their vulnerable position. Grian supposed they should be thankful that they haven't…

He goes back to Scar, dropping his bow and grabbing another knife. He immediately starts to cut the bottom of the robe Scar gave him. He felt bad, and he really hoped Scar had more of these old uniforms, but they had bigger things to worry about.

He starts around his ankles, trying to do the least amount of damage while also being as quick as he can. His flock instincts are practically screaming at him as he does it, but he keeps going. The sound of tearing cloth seems to get Scars attention.

He hears him huff out a sad laugh when he sees what Grian is doing.

“Careful of the sleeves…” Is all he says, accepting the fabric as they both work together to tightly tie it around Scars thigh. He lets out a little cry of pain as they finish, but immediately grabs his bow he had dropped when he got shot. He knocks a few arrows back and Grian watches as he downs the last few enemies.

He misses a whole lot of his shots, taking several more arrows than normal to drop the last few. He even shot them in the least showy places, and he still managed to miss in some cases. What was going on?

Scar was acting both frantic yet also calm. His eyes were wild as he took shots and his hands shaking as he nocked arrows back. Yet he continued on and continued taking shots. Grian assumes it has to do with Hero training. So much has gone very wrong, yet Scar just keeps getting up.

“Let's go.” Scar tries to stand up, only to lean most of his weight on the wooden frame box. He groans as he goes to take a step, and then another. Grian assumes it's because of the bullet wound, hurrying over to throw an arm around his back while pulling his bow over his head. He makes Scar lean on him, making him put his own arm on his shoulder. For some reason, it doesn't seem to help all that much.

Either way, Grian tries to get them to shuffle out the way they came but Scar tells him no.

“They know we were here. They will be waiting that way, we need to find another way out.” He says, pointing at the only other door in the room with his free hand.

“We have no other choice huh…” Grian says with sass, shuffling them over to that door and testing the handle. It's unlocked, which Grian doesn't know whether it is luck or some trap like this one but they don't really have the time to test it.

So he thrusts the door open, and it leads to a completely white, yet dim long hallway. He can't even see the end. There are no other doors, and while it does seem to curve, it's completely straight.

With a sigh, Grian walks in and lets Scar go propping him up against the wall. He turns back and takes two of his arrows and stabs it in between the slats of the tallest wooden boxes next to the door. He grabs them both for leverage and pulls them with all his might until the both topple over. He jumps back and slams the door before any of it falls inside, but they hear the crash and see the milky substance spill under the doorway.

He breathes heavily, walking over and helping Scar off the wall. He looks like he's in a lot of pain, more pain than just what a bullet wound on his thigh would suggest and Grian doesn't know why. His face is pinched and beads of sweat roll down his temples. Maybe he just has a really low pain tolerance. He chooses to accept that answer rather than the alternative…

Grian feels drained and tired but he knows that they aren't out of the thick of it yet.

“Nice thinking…It'll take them a while to follow us.” Scar huffs out.

“Thanks, I just hope this leads somewhere safer. Are you okay?” Grian grits, having some trouble carrying both Scar and himself.

“It was a splash potion, I’m powerless right now.” Scar spits. Grian feels his heart grow cold.

“What?” He breathes. He knows that means something different to Scar than that means for him. Scar doesn't know that he knows he's lucky. Ignoring that though, he's never heard of anything like that that would take away a power like that…

“Not something that anybody has except the Association. It's only used in villain prisons to keep them in check. They shouldn't be out of those buildings.”

“So that's why we were missing our shots…”

“Me, yes. You by proxy, also yes…”

“How did we not hear them?” Grian asks, noticing a slight incline in the floor. The hallway was still empty, but now it was curving slightly. Still couldn't see the end though.

“A power, probably. Those were low tier Heros you know.” Scar says in the most disappointed voice Grian has ever heard. He wants to be shocked, and appalled. But he can't even muster the feeling. At this point, now that most things are falling into place, those all being Heros makes the most amount of sense.

“I know. You still have the vial?” At this point, he just wants to get back to Doc. And next time, he will not be offering services to villains.

“Of course. Safe and sound, as well as-”

“Shh…I hear something…” Grian doesn't stop walking, but he certainly hears something. It was muted and dull, like it was coming through layers of dirt or concrete. It sounded like…

”Birds?” He says out loud. Scar tilted his head to try and listen as well. Where were they heading where there would be birds?

The incline was getting worse, slowing them down a little but with the added inspiration of possibly getting out of here, he keeps a fine pace. Scar keeps letting out little pained noises every once in a while as he walks, his knees buckling or his ankle rolling.

Grian tries not to think about it. Scar hasn't spoken yet, other than small apologies, so he won't ask. But with everything else going on, he's pretty sure he can figure out why he's feeling like this. Seems pretty convenient that as soon as his power is inactive, he is riddled with pain. But again, not a topic of discussion for right now. Later, later, later they will talk about it later.

Finally, Grian thinks they reach the end. A solid door comes into view, metal and painted light purple. The birds are louder now, so it must lead outside. They must have found the way they smuggle the drugs they make from the lab up into the city.

Grian drags them up the final few steps and pushes on the handle. It swings open with a horrible ‘creak’ making Grians ears ring. But he continues forwards, using his free hand to reach down and pulling out a knife, just in case.

He walks him through the door onto grass, yet they are inclosed. He pulls them forward as Scar grits his teeth harder. This place was also abandoned, or it looked to be. The whole ground was covered with overgrown grass and moss. Trees were growing, some were very large, growing almost as tall as the ceiling.

Said ceiling was made completely out of glass, letting the dusk light shine through leaving the place in a golden glow. In the very center the window was gone, to let fresh air in and mostly likely where the birds and other animals came in from. The birds were flying from tree to tree and butterflies fluttering around, landing on flowers.

The concrete pillars that held up the roof had green vines spiraling up the sides. The moss and greenery completely changing the color from building gray to lively early green.

It was beautiful. And the only place that Grian can think of is the old abandoned botanical gardens on the most north side of the park. He had never gone, but from pictures that he had seen of its hay day, this had to be it.

He wished he could spend more time here (it would be so fun to fly around in here, feel the wind in his wings alongside the birds) but he was way more distracted trying to find an exit. It was hard enough to get them to walk up an incline, but now walking through tall grass and random terrain changes, they were having a rough go of it.

And now, Grian stops them, his aural feathers twitching at the sound of something that shouldn't be here. He hears lots and birds and other nature like things, but he hears shuffling of cloth that is not their own. There's people here, hiding in the bushes.

Scar lets out a shaky sigh, realizing that Grian had heard something since they stopped. Slowly, Grian lowers them under the brush hoping to give them a little cover so they can come up with a plan. Scar looked exhausted, his leg still bleeding and his face glazed over with pain.

He didn't see any exits near them at all, nor any that they could try and sneak over too. And even if there was, without Scars luck then it was a high chance they wouldn't even be able to get there without getting caught. So this all has to be done with a carefully thought out plan.

Think, Grian, think!

He has a few more knives and several more arrows. That, along with Scar they should have plenty of ammo. But they don't know how many people are waiting for them. Maybe if they make a break for it then they can surprise them, using less of their arrows and getting out quick.

That might work, if Scar wasn’t mostly out of commission. Grian growls quietly under his breath trying to think of something else. There has to be a way out of this that doesn't involve luck…

Scar starts moving to his side, drawing his attention to him. He watches as Scar reaches down, opens his thigh bag and pulls out the vial. He thrusts it to Grian trying to get him to take it. Grians eyes widen as he understand what Scar is trying to get him to do. He denies it, crossing his arms and silently shakes his head.

Scar reaches out and grabs his torn robe and pulls him down so he can whisper in his ear. They bonk foreheads on the way down, both holding in a pained sound.

“Take this to Doc, I will be okay.” He explains, as if Grian didn't understand from the beginning. He goes to protest again, but Scar beats him to it. “Fly out the roof, it's the best way out. It will be fine.” They both know that's a lie. Or at least not a guarantee.

“No.” Grian chirps, final.

“Grian, the potion should wear off soon. I will be fine. Go.” He shoves the vial at Grian again, who shoves it back.

“No.” While Scars idea is…certainly an idea. It does help Grian think of something better. “Trust me. Hop on.” With the last whisper, Grian turns his back to Scar and spreads his wings through the grass.

His back is fully exposed, making it easy for somebody to lay completely against him with little interference when flying (he remembers doing this with Moon a lot when they were younger, helping her fly when they found out she would never be able to. He's never let anybody but her do this, but desperate times…) He shakes his wings out, impatient knowing that Scar is being annoying about it. They don't have time for hesitance, so he does it again. Finally, he feels Scar shuffle over and lay his chest against his back. He wraps his arms around his neck, placing his face there too. (Grian does feel a little bad, knowing that Scar is still scared of heights. But this is their best, and only option.)

Grian reaches up and holds Scars arms, if only for their comfort and he gets his feet under himself. He takes a moment, and then one more, before thrusting himself into the air with as much force as he physically can. It's fast and he hears Scar yelp when he does, holding tighter and burying his face further.

Suddenly, he sees an arrow whip by. Great, that was quick. He glances down, seeing at least 20 Heros pop up from the long grass, and start shooting at them. He starts dodging, going up and up as fast as he can.

He hears something come from his right, immediately banking left just in time to avoid a ball of liquid fire. It flies past them fizzling out right before it hits the glass. He overcorrects a bit, not used to the extra weight but doing his best to try and get used to it as he has to bank right to avoid yet another arrow.

It reminds him of his audition in the room. Bank right, then left, then bank right again while making sure to still fly up and up. But this time, as soon as he gets through the gap in the windows they are home free. They'll have a whole sky to escape into, and they are so close.

Just a few more heavy thrust and they would make it right through the window and they will be on their way to Docs. They will heal Scar and finally get to the bottom of this MooPop stuff. Only a few feet more…

And then, the most painful feeling Grian has even experienced rips through his right wing. He screams and instinctually tries to flap them again, making it feel even worse. It feels like something is tearing, something warms seeping between the feathers.

He feels wind whip past his face, the window getting further and further away. They are rapidly losing altitude. He thinks maybe he can hear Scar yelling too.

Something his brain snaps, making him flap harder randomly, as if he was trying to get away from his own wing. But he was just trying to get the pain to go away. It's not working! He's being thrust in all different directions as his instincts try to get him away.

He tried to make sure their crash wasn't too hard, but they still are going down fast. When the do hit the ground, Grian angles himself to where he takes the majority of the fall on his left side. It hurts so bad, and he just knows the chirps and clicks he is making are completely out of his control. He sees his vision wavering, Scar rolling off of him avoiding his wing. His wings weren't red. Why was it red?

Scar reaches over and pulls him close, his eyes fluttering as well. Oh Scar is hurt too! Flock is hurt and is reaching for him to help! Grian chirps and coos, leaning into him hoping he can help relieve the pain. But he hurts too, so there isn't much he can do…

He senses someone else around them, footsteps of multiple people. No! Flock is hurt! Nobody can be here!

He awkwardly cranes his neck to look up, his vision swimming as he catches sight of a group of people approaching them. He hisses, but they don't back away. Oh, he can't see much anymore… He's very light headed.

He pulls Scar under him, trying to pull his wings over him but one of them hurts too much to move. He hisses again, this time having to lay his head back down. The people are still coming, but all he can do is watch as people in purple robes reach towards them, and he loses consciousness.

“Hey, wake up!” Someone pokes his shoulder, jolting him awake with a startled chirp. His wings flutter as he shakes his head looking up to see who would be rude enough to interrupt his beauty sleep.

Of course, he sees Scar, vibrating with laughter watching Grian try to wake up.

“You fell asleep in the training room again.” He smiles, reaching up to take a hold of his bow. It's wrapped over his shoulder, a quiver on his back as well.

Tilting his head to the side, he chirps quietly in confusion. He sits up placing his hands at his sides, Scar giggles a little before walking over and reaching out a hand. With help, he stands up looking around trying to clear a little bit of the sleep fog in his brain.

Welp. Scar was right, he was in fact in the training room. Damn he told himself he would stop falling asleep in here after StarVoid had tripped over him when training… Too late he supposed.

He remembers now what he was doing when he came down here. Just trying to find somewhere quiet where he could think, but he made a little mistake in coming over to Boatems shared training parameter. He had sat down with his back to one of Scars pillars and apparently it was too quiet. He leaned down and covered himself with his wings, falling asleep soon after.

And now here Scar was, waking him up probably on his way to do some training before their patrol tonight. They were planning on letting him take the lead since he was coming up on his two year mark for being with the team.

The green clad Hero was smiling down at him with amusement filling his brown eyes. Grian just rolled his, taking his hand back now that he was up.

“Yeah yeah, very funny.” He huffs, crossing his arms as Scar throws his head back with a laugh.

“I'm surprised you haven't built a nest here yet with how often one of us finds you here.” He giggles, taking his bow off his shoulder and setting it to the side. He lazily starts stretching, reaching high into the sky and then down to his toes.

“Ha ha even funnier.” Grian drawls sarcastically. He watches as Scar gets ready to train a little, a mixture of feelings bubbling in his chest. Coming up on two years of knowing Scar has some more sentimental warmth. It's immediately snuffed out by the understanding of what the rest of Boatem is about to face soon.

He doesn't regret not telling Scar what was going on, but he feels bad that he is so left behind. They are supposed to be a team yet they purposefully kept Scar in the dark. It's supposed to be for his own good, but it's now that everything has hit a high point he feels like they might have made a mistake.

He had come here to clear his head, try and think through their next steps after talking to TFC. It was clear that the Hero Association was corrupted and they had to do something about it. They were so close to being able to release it all into the media, but they were just waiting for the final touches on Red's reversing agent.

They had recently found that it was able to work on most potions too, not only MooPop. It was ironically white in color so Grian jokingly called it Mumbos Milk, which Red promptly turned into the acronym: Medical Immobilizer of an eLixir Quickly, or M.I.L.Q. for short. It was the best he could come up with and they had gotten a good kick out of it.

It would reverse all potions and drugs running through somebody's blood stream and, if used quick enough, it could certainly save somebody's life. The Grian and Moon were so incredibly proud of Red and Mighty for such a brilliant use of medical D.U.S.T. It was so close to being done, and after that all they had to figure out was the Association's motive.

It's what Grian was hoping to find an answer for the more they dug into their past. But all they could really find was links to the old mayor of Hermit Empire. He had been killed years ago right after the loss of the war, yet the Association was still going out of their way to acquire more power.

They knew that the way MooPop was heading was dangerous. Something that was directly targeting powered people yet leaving powerless ones alone. It wasn't there yet, but from the samples they have been able to get through undercover means, the little purple dots were growing.

He's pretty sure that the Council is on to them as well. They had stopped calling Grian in for meetings a while ago. He hasn't seen hide nor hair of them and it's worrying. Did they know? Were they just watching them to see how far they would get? Grian knew they had secret cameras everywhere, it's why their creepy logo made sense.

“You look constipated.” He heard as Scar punched his shoulder. He snaps his head up, realizing that he was staring into space while thinking. Scar laughs, and Grian just feels more sad. It's all just getting more and more confusing and Scar knows nothing of it…

“Just thinking about how you've been looking smaller lately. Skipping the weights?” Grian quips back, finally able to let out his own laugh at Scars wildly offended look.

“I'll have you know I’m getting stronger everyday!” He flexes his arms, and to be fair Grian can see that he is certainly stronger than when they first met, but it's no nowhere near Mighty. He wouldn't say he was buff per say, but more like muscularly lean.

“You should ask Impy for some tips.” He smiles as Scar drops his arms with a pout.

“That is not fair and you know it!” He puts a hand on his hip while pointing a finger angrily at Grian. It makes his laugh harder, probably harder than it should. He bends over holding his stomach while wiping a tear from his eye.

“It's not that funny! I'm strong and still getting stronger! I'm here to train aren't I?” He huffs talking with his hands. Grians continues to giggle, getting an idea as Scar raises his arms.

“Are you?” Grian asks, smiling as he looks into Scars eyes mischievously. Scar catches on immediately, pulling a suspicious face as he backs up a little.

“That was the plan, Birdy.” Grian coos at the nickname, and Scars eyes widen as he understands where this is heading. But he is much too late to make a break for it.

Before he can even turn around, Grian pounces using his wings as an extra boost. He wraps his arms around Scars waist and squeezes tight. Then, while Scar was still scrambling to try and get away (to be fair, he had never done this to Scar before. Only the other members of Boatem since Scar to have an issue with heights. But the bird brain gets what the bird brain wants.) Grian thrusts his wings down, throwing them into the air.

Scar stops struggling and instead wraps himself around Grian. He had his head hidden in Grians shoulder as he yells the higher they get. It doesn't take long to fly up to where they are going since it's directly above them.

He spins in the air until his backside is facing the beam, letting himself fall elegantly onto his butt on the beam holding the roof up. Scar is practically on his lap, holding each other close while he adamantly refuses to take his face out of Grians shoulder.

Grian scoots further back so he has some room to set Scar down. The man is very much so not on board with that but with a little struggling he is able to get him to lean his back against the perpendicular pillar rising from the ground up to the ceiling. The man holds his knees to his chest making sure that all of him is on the beam.

Grian chirps happily now having a part of his flock this high up. It's where they belong, high up in the sky where he can keep them close.

Scar holds a delicate smile on his face, trying to keep his eyes off of anywhere but Grians face. If Grian wasn't so birdy, he would know it was because he was scared. But as it stands he just knows he has to be careful since this member of his flock doesn't have wings.

“Here. You wanted me to make a nest, here we are!” He cheeps, crossing his legs. Sure, it's not a comfortable nest, but it has sentimental value.

“This isn't a nest Grian, it's a death trap.” He breathes, flicking his eyes over the side before huddling further into himself.

“Hey! Just because it's not a mess of blankets doesn't make it not a nest!” He huffs.

“Then what is a nest, Birdy, cause this doesn't look like one.”

“It's just anywhere I feel comfortable and where my flock has been.” He smiles, falling backwards so his wings spill over the sides and he lays on his back. He's pretty sure he heard Scar yelp when he did but he ignores it.

“I really doubt that Boatem comes up here often.” The statement makes Grian sit back up with a chitter.

“Yes they do,” He lifts a claw to point at the beam behind Scar, “look.”

Hesitating only for a moment to give Grian an exasperated look, Scar huffs in a seated manner before slowly, and oh so carefully, Scar twisting his head around. He watches as the man gives pause, eyes scanning the multiple works of graffiti on the pillar.

He was proud of those! Little memories of each time he hung out with a member of Boatem up here. And with the way that things were going he really wanted Scar to add something. While he wasn't planning on bringing Scar up here, he always carried a marker on him.

He shuffled forward, grabbing the marker from his back pocket. He leans over Scar, watching as his eyes scan the wall. He looks mesmerized, a smile on his face while he finally pulls one of his hands away from his knees. He reaches up and traces over a few of the letters in Mighty's name, giggling.

“They did kiss, I know it.” He laughed. Grian giggled as well, pushing the marker into Scars hand. It was blue, just one he grabbed out of his room.

“We all know they did. Here, you write something too! Everyone has but you…” He leans back to give Scar some room. The man rolls his eyes, but takes the marker cap off. Grian waits patiently as Scar looks around to think of something to write, then finally as his eyes land on Grian, he lets out a little ‘ah!’ before starting to write near the bottom of the pillar.

Finally when Scar puts the cap back on, Grian leans forward to see what he wrote.

“‘Watchers mask is creepy! There I said it!’ Really Scar?” Grian laughs. Next to the statement Scar had signed his Hero name in a curly font.

“It is! And really, so are the ones the rest of you wear when the Council calls. I know it's been a while since they have, but good riddance I say!” He laughs, curling back up in a ball. A bead of sweat makes its way down his temple.

“I didn't pick them!” He jokes back. “And the ones we wear during patrols were also not from me!”

“Those ones are fine, just enough to conceal identity even if I don't wear one. Can we get down now?” He changed topic very quickly out of nowhere, making Grian pause and tilt his head.

“We just got here…” He chirps sadly.

“I know, but Grian, I don't like heights so can we just…” And suddenly it clicked.

“Oh! You really don't like heights! I'm sorry, I just thought it was a little thing.” He cheeps scooting close to grab onto him. He didn't want Scar up here if he was truthfully scared, that was his bad honestly.

“It's okay…Just please get us down safely and don't fall out of the sky.” He laughs nervously, uncurling a bit to wrap his arms around his neck.

“The only way I would fall out of the sky is if my wings got hurt!” He jokes, knowing that that was impossible.

He jolted awake with a pained gasp. His wing. His wing hurt so bad. A strangled chirp forced itself out his throat as he noticed that he was laying on his stomach. He tried to get up, if only to see where he was, but everything was still fuzzy from sleep and his pain driven instincts.

He had to be on a bed, or some sort of cot. The bedding was hard and uncomfortable, but marginally better than concrete. There was no pillow, just a ball of green cloth placed under his head.

He takes a moment to just breathe. He needs to relax his muscles to lessen the strain on his wing. He stutteringly breathes in, feeling stale air enter his lungs making him cough. It hurts, but he forces more air down his throat. Slowly he's able to regain control and relax just enough to work through his brain fog.

Now is not the time to rely on his instincts, he needs to think. He's clearly not in his room, nor in Scars and he's pretty certain he isn't at Doc's place either. So it raises the question where is he. He turns his head to look into the room past his cot.

While he recognizes that wherever he is, it's definitely a cell, his eyes immediately land on the Hero huddled next to his head on the floor. His side is facing Grian with his back against the wall, his knees pulled up and his face is in his hands. His shoulders are shaking like he's crying.

A shot of panic runs to Grian seeing him curled up like that. His thigh still has the makeshift bandage wrapped around it and a few bruises have even started appearing on his arms. Though his shoulders are shaking, he's completely silent and if he wasn't shaking Grian would assume he was sleeping.

Two things hit him at once, the first being what just happened. The whole fight comes rushing back to him seeing the greenish brown fabric wrapped around Scar. Scar had been shot after they had been caught and they had nothing to patch him up with.

They ran; tried to escape through an open window but something happened. They were hit (his wing twitches a little at the thought) and they fell. They hit the ground hard, Grian being deep in his instincts tried to help Scar over himself. He saw purple robes but from there Grian doesn't remember a thing.

He tears his eyes away from Scar and into the room. It was dark, built mostly of concrete. There was a singular door painted in white with an Association eye in the center. Grian felt his blood run cold, but somehow he wasn't surprised.

There's nothing else in the room other than him, Scar and the cot. A single light positioned in the ceiling over the center of the room; it's dim.

And that leads to the second thing to hit him, his dream. He's been running away from them for so long trying not to think about anything but getting the mission over. It felt like it was all catching up to him now. Ignoring the problem just made it so much worse, and now so many things were falling into place. So many things that make no sense yet had to be the truth.

One thing is for certain: him and Scar need to talk.

“Scar…” Grian croaks. His throat feels dry and scratchy, probably from the chirping and yelling from earlier. How long had he been out?

Scars head shoots up to look at Grian. He immediately notices how red his eyes are along with the tears running down his cheeks. His eyebrows are pinched up and his mouth set in an open frown. His nose is running, mixing with the tears. It's not a pretty sight, seeing him cry.

Yet somehow him being a mess isn't even the most worrying thing Grian is seeing. The most noticeable thing was Scar's eyes, they were flashing. Going from their normal color and then lighting up orange before dimming back down. They twitch every once in a while like he's purposefully trying to get them to light up, but they stubbornly won’t.

Suddenly, Scar reaches his hand up and runs it over Grians cheeks softly. He closes his eyes as Scar runs his hand up into his ear feathers lightly preening them. His hands are shaking.

“I'm so glad you woke up…I didn’t know… I don't know what to do with wing injuries. Watcher never got them I- It was bandaged when I woke up but- it- I don't…” He stutters.

“I'm okay. Or well…” He interrupts and tries to move his wing. It's clearly been wrapped up in something to keep him from moving it too much. But though it still hurts, like he wasn't healed even a little bit, he's not going to tell Scar that.

"Are you okay?" Grian asked, deflecting off of himself. He is more concerned about Scar than anything else anyway.

Scar huffs a wet laugh and sniffles. "Who cares. You're awake now." Grian scoffs at the answer.

"I care.” He huffs, moving on. “How long have we been here?” Changing the subject.

“I woke up about an hour ago, and since my bullet wound has stopped bleeding I’m going to assume we’ve been down here for a few hours before that.” Grian opens his eyes to watch the Hero wipe the tears off his face, but they are replaced almost immediately. Grian feels something cold bubble in his chest thinking about why Scar knows how long it takes for a bullet wound to stop bleeding.

“‘Down here?’” Grian asks instead of thinking about it too hard.

“The Hero Tower cells, they are right below the infirmary. You were never shown them since they are almost never used.” Scar explains hastily, like he's just getting the information out of the way to talk about other things.

Grian supposed he could have guessed where they were because of the door, but hearing it was just as heartbreaking. They really did land themselves in much deeper water than they meant too.

His dreams… It has always been deeper than anyone meant to get involved in. He should have known how this would go, should've told Scar as soon as he knew that the Association was suspicious. This whole thing is his fault.

“We should try and get out of here.” He suggests first off, guilty sounding. They can go somewhere safe and have a nice long discussion on all the things that Grian never said.

“We can't.” Is all Scar says, sounding final. He rests his head against the bed dropping his hand to try and search for Grians. When he found his claw, he grasped it tightly.

“What?” Grian breaths back. Sure, they were in a bad state, but there has to be some way of getting out of here. They were Heros! Someone must be looking for them, even if it was the Association that took them.

“These cells are guarded by mid tier Heros 24/7 when someone is locked up. There's no way we can get out while my power is interrupted.” He makes it sound like they are hopeless, but Grian is nothing if not stubborn. He squeezes Scars hand back before letting go. With a struggle, he's able to sit himself up in the bed. He feels his whole left side throb, that must have been where he hit the ground. He is surprised he didn't break any bones or do any worse damage than a few bruises.

Scar just watches on with tired, red rimmed eyes.

“I’m sure we can figure something out! We just have to-” Grian starts, rolling out his shoulders trying to relieve some of the pain. A few chirps and coos slip in between the words as his brain tries to force him into instinct mode.

“You don't get it!” Scar shouts out of nowhere. It shocks Grian enough for him to flinch back. His mouth sets in a hard frown hearing him shout like that, especially because he is still crying curled in on himself. He's never really seen Scar get mad… He watches as Scar drags his hands down his face exacerbated.

“We are trapped Grian, and there's no way out! We got ourselves on the Association's bad side and now we are going to disappear just like the rest of Boatem!” He bangs his fist on the bed, doing no damage because of the soft material. It seems to frustrate him, so he uses the cot to help him stand up.

He groans and his knees pop and crack in ways Grians is sure aren't healthy. He goes to try and stop him but the man has already moved away from his grasp and started pacing. There's not much room to pace in, but Scar limps back and forth anyways. His face is set in a mix of frustration and a grimace and Grian doesn't understand either.

“What?” Is all he can think to say…Maybe they would be having a conversation much sooner than expected. His wings try to twitch, sending a pain jolt down his spine.

“Don't you get it? This is all my fault!” He runs his hands through his hair anxiously as he speaks. His eyes light up a powerful orange, but dim almost as soon as they do. He growls in frustration, throwing his hands up.

“How, Scar, is any of this even remotely your fault?” Grian can feel his temper dwindling as well. He knows that most of this has to be his fault, and Scar sitting here blaming himself is getting both of them nowhere. They are both injured, without powers, and trapped. Now is not the time for playing a blame game.

“I don't know if you noticed, Grian, but ever since you got here everything has been a mess! I'm the number one Hero and I didn't even notice it was the Association making the drugs!” He yells, facing Grian as he rants. Grian feels his heart break a little as he speaks, but doesn't interrupt him. “I don't know anything! I've just been coasting by after Boatem went missing feeling sorry for myself, and now here we are! My power is useless, I’m useless and we’re trapped. I can’t do anything alone… or even with a damned sidekick!" Scar turns around to face the wall and turns his head up to look at the ceiling. A wrecked sob makes its way through his body and he shouts "It's no wonder they never told me anything!" Scar then reels back and punches the concrete wall causing dust to fall from the ceiling and sprinkle onto the floor.

“Woah!” Grian swings his legs over the bed and jumps to his feets, ignoring the pain, and rushes to Scars side. He roughly grabs Scar's wrist to inspect the damage while pulling Scar away from the wall. The man lets him, continuing to cry as Grian looks at his bleeding knuckles.

“The Association has been operating under my nose this whole time with Heros; people I see in the cafeteria everyday and I never knew a thing… Mumbo would’ve known, or Pearl. She was so smart…” He mumbles oh so quietly, but it's enough. Grian's whole body freezes, from his blood to his muscles to his heart and breathing.

“Who?” He whispers, staring at Scars chest. The man scoffs, pulling his hand out of Grian easily, since Grian can't move, and walks over to the cot. He practically falls onto it, his knees giving out as he plops down. Grian doesn't even turn to face him.

“I’ve always been useless.” He sighs, a hiccup escaping his throat.

“What did you just say?” Grian manages to voice louder this time.

“Nothing. Forget I said anything.” He flippantly waves off, pressing his back against the wall with his legs hanging off the side of the bed. Grian finally gains movement of his limbs, which he uses to turn around to face Scar. He can feel the tears being gathered in his eyes and lashes threaten to fall.

He has balled his fists at his side, hands and whole body shaking with anxiety, fear and maybe a little bit of rage. Scar, when he finally looks up at him after a little too long of silence, morphs his face into one of slight surprise when he sees Grians expression.

“What did you just say, Scar.” He breathes one more time. Scars eyes widen looking between Grians eyes like he can't find a place to stick with. He opens and closes his mouth as if debating whether he actually wants to answer Grian. Grian feels his heart in his throat, needing to hear what Scar had just said one more time. It feels like if he doesn't confirm it he will just explode.

“I said…that Pearl and Mumbo would've known about the Association…and that I’m useless without them.” He confirms and just like that, all of Grians fears and anxieties are answered.

He's pretty sure he falls to his knees, the shock of the concrete feels dull though. He grabs at his head as he leans over, tears finally spilling over the concrete.

No. No! There's no way! There can't be! Those dreams… they make no sense! The rest of Boatem…the reason they felt so familiar. The reason they were always from the perspective of Watcher. Because…

It can't be! There's no way he was Watcher! He would know! He doesn't have the wings, clearly his were very destructible. The Mumbo he knew was a shape-shifter vigilante named Jumbo learning D.U.S.T., not some expert! And Impulse was Impy! The vigilante who was getting better at light manipulation! And his sister…His wonderful baby sister with underdeveloped wings and a love for chaos.

But Scar just said their names, and suddenly the fog of his dreams is lifted. Everything seems so much clearer than before. Even with them wearing the masks he just remembers them and can tell. What is happening?

What happened?

“Grian!” He feels hands take his wrists and they are then dragged away from his face. His scalp feels a bit sore and tingly. “What's wrong?” Scar asks, sounding more panicked than even when he was ranting.

Grian just feels himself shake his head. All this time spent, all those weird dreams leading him on, they were here the whole time. And apparently he was too.

“You know Pearl?” He said in place of an answer. He slowly brings his head to look at Scar. His self-deprecating expression was replaced by one of confusion and panic. The tears tracks on his face had dried a little, but he held onto the puffy ‘just cried’ look.

“MoonLight, yes.” He shook his head with confusion so he spoke in earnest. “Are you okay?” He asked again.

“My sister's name was Pearl…” It was now Scars turn to freeze. Grian is pretty sure he watches the blood leave his face. “And my best friends, Mumbo and Impulse. I- I’ve been looking for them for three years…”

“Grian… RedStone and I-Mighty… Gri-” Scar whispers, eyes staring a thousand yards into Grians own.

“What was Watchers name, Scar?” He has to know. He needs to know. Needs Scar to confirm his biggest suspicion from the moment those damn dreams started. Needs to have just understand .

“I-... Birdy I just- I don't…” Scar stutters out, his hands squeeze Grians wrists too tight, but he doesn't care.

“Scar. Please…” He breathes, boiling hot tears dripping off his chin onto the ground.

“Watchers name was Grian. But I didn't think- I just… You two are so different, I didn't want to-'' Scar can't seem to find the end of his sentence, giving up instead.

Grian can't blame Scar even if he wanted to. He can imagine some Avian showing up with no powers, different wings, different style, personality and background then he too would let a matching name slide. Especially if that person didn't even know who he was.

“You tripped when you heard my name.” Grian remembers. It was the first day during the tour and he tripped over the carpet. Thinking back, it's weird for somebody with a luck power to trip over his own feet. Now he understands.

“It had been such a long time since I heard that name. It's unique, but not enough to raise much suspicion. Plus, you didn't recognize me. I just-” He explains, pausing at random points. He finally drops Grians hands, instead reaching out to cup his face again pulling him closer. “You don't know me…” His eyes begin to fill with tears again when Grian slowly shakes his head.

“I- I’ve been having dreams, Scar…” He murmurs, his turn to reach up and grab at Scar wrist, if only to make sure he continues to hold his face. He looks away from Scar face as he says this, as if admitting to some sort of guilt. And he supposes that he kind of is. He's kept so much from his supposed partner. He does catch the little hitch in Scar breath though.

“It thought…maybe they were some sort of latent power. Maybe it was just happening because of my proximity to you and how often we talked about Boatem I just-” He stutters a breath in before continuing. “They wouldn't stop and they were always so similar it was freaking me out. I thought you would hate me if you knew…”

“Tell me what they were about Birdy?” Scar breathes. Grian forces more air into his lungs, breathing out slowly as Scar pulls him into his shoulder, noticing his hesitancy. He brings his arms around Grians shoulders carefully, squeezing him gently.

“They were always about Boatem through the eyes of Watcher, as if I was him I- It was weird at first, seeing them all since I never met them…But they all felt so familiar. The first one was about some fight with a villain uh…Snow Major, the villain Snow Major. Then one about where you told Watcher you would teach him archery, then the fight with Dragon Witch, then a team meeting about the Association…” He felt Scars arms tighten more and more as he spoke. He placed his chin on Scars shoulder as he spoke, probably soaking his shirt.

“The last one was when I just woke up…I- you…Watcher took you up to the rafters to sign your name on the beam. You were so scared he took you down.” He suddenly felt Scar breathe in a sob, taking a hand off of Grians back to stifle it into his hand. It gave Grian enough motivation to raise his arms to hug Scar tightly back.

“I'm sorry I lied to you, I just didn't know what to say! I promise I’m telling you the truth, I know it sounds crazy I-” He rapidly chirps out. His one stable wing comes around to try and cocoon them in a sad attempt at comfort.

“I believe you! I believe you!” Scar weeps harder, falling off his knees onto his backside and practically pulling Grian into his lap to hug him closer. “Those happened Birdy! I was there for most of those, they're memories, not dreams!” He cries.

“I’m sorry.” Is all Grian can think to say, attributing Scars upset to Grians lies of omission. And he truly is sorry. He didn't want this, he just wanted his family back and now everything was just made infinitely more complicated.

“Your last dream,” he mewls, “They went missing that night. It was the last time I ever saw Watcher and I wanted to leave his nest for such selfish reasons.” He sobs holding Grian close.

Oh. Oh , that's why he was upset. Grian just reminded him of literally the worst thing to ever happen to him. Well. Now that Grian thinks about it, it's the worst thing to happen to them both. Whatever happened that night.

“I’m so sorry, Scar.” He sobs too, pulling Scar so hard against him his wing throbs in pain.

“I have you back!” He cries. “Don't be sorry, I have you back!” He pulls Grian back to look into his eyes. Grian is sure they both look like messes; tears streaming down both their faces along with snot and sweat. But neither care as they look into eachothers eyes with so much care it makes Grian feel sick with anxiety.

“I don't remember you…” He breathes his anxiety into the words. “I don't know you as he did…I know HotGuy Scar, not Tycoon Scar. I don't remember…anything about being Watcher.” He says with sudden realization.

“That's okay! Because I don't know you like I did. But it's still you . It's still you Grian.” He pulled him back into his shoulder.

And that's where they both sat for the next few minutes while they both cried their eyes out. Every once in a while Scar would murmur something about ‘it still being him’ and how much he missed Grian.

It just made Grians heart shatter that much more knowing he has no memories of the man, except the ones replayed in his dreams. It's unfair, unjust that he somehow was the missing Hero, yet had no idea on what happened. It's all just blank no matter how hard he tries.

“I don't know what happened.” Grian says into Scars shoulder, both of them calming down a little. It's the one thing he wishes he did know. Out of all people, he would be the only one to possibly know what happened to their shared family, yet he doesn't remember (he can't stop the coo that leaves his throat at the thought of their ‘shared family.’ Like it's the words his instincts have been yearning to hear from the beginning. He lets himself revel in that feeling this time, okay letting it out.)

“I don't know where they are and I don't know how I’m here…Or why I’m so…different now.” He admits. Scar brings a hand up to lightly scratch at the nape of his neck, sending a shiver down his spine.

“That's okay…We can figure it out together now.” He says as he continues to play with Grians hair. He can feel the beginning of a headache coming on from all the crying. He can't imagine how Scar must feel.

He pulls himself back to look at Scar face, trying to judge if there's any indication of pain. He feels Scar keep his hand in his hair as he moves back to look in his eyes. He's surprised, yet a little happy at what he sees.

“Your power is back!” He smiles lightly, using his own hand to tap gently below his now orange eyes. After a moment of confusion, Scar blinks quickly with a little frown. It's not the reaction Grian was expecting considering their situation.

“So it is.” He doesn't sound enthused like Grian was hoping. It's a good thing! Now they have a little luck on their side.

“That's good though right? Having a little more luck?” The comment makes them both freeze, Scar looking quite taken aback. Grian realized the words far too late before they came out of his mouth, but he unfroze quick enough knowing that Scar already knows about the dreams.

“How did you-?” Scar starts, but Grian beats him to it.

“The dreams! Uhh, Pearl told me…I guess.” He explains, hoping Scar wasn't mad. He had kept his power a secret for so long and he didn't even get to tell Grian himself.

“Oh…Well, that's okay. You had to find out at some point.” Scar seems somehow both relieved and disappointed and Grian doesn't know what to make of it. “S’not like it's good anyways.” He mutters, sounding like he meant to say it only to himself. Grian still heard it nonetheless. His face pinches into something of confusion recalling all the other time's scar has said something like that.

“What do you mean? You've said that before…” Grian asked. Scar gives a long drawn out sigh before gently pushing Grian out of his lap and stands up. His knees pop again and a slight look of discomfort passes over his features, but he holds out a hand from Grian to take, which he does.

Scar leads them over to the cot, taking a seat against the wall before he situates Grian over his lap, onto his stomach to rest his wing. He admits, it does feel better to not over gravity affect his wing, but he's upset he can't see Scars face anymore. His whole body still feels like one big bruise, but huddled with Scar it all feels just a little better. Or, at least his flock brian thinks so.

“Well, since we are gonna be here a while anyways, can I preen you?” He asks, calm. He knows Scar has to be talking about his injured wing, so he nods his head bringing up his arms to pillow himself in Scar's lap.

“You've told me your story and I think it's time I tell you mine. I never got to before…” He slowly strokes his feather quietly as if thinking.

“This is all my fault, Grian.” He says suddenly, making Grian immediately go to tell him off again, but Scar barrels on. “Did you know,” He starts unprompted. “That my dad used to be the mayor?” No, Grian did not know that. He never really paid attention to the family line of the mayors of this town. But with some quick math he can take a guess on who the man was.

“He was the one to start the Mycelium war.” Confirming what Grian thought. “He wanted to expand the city limits, but the naturists wanted him to know his place. He somehow got the Hero Association under his thumb, I was too young to know how. I just knew that the cool Heros were helping my dad and I wanted to be one of them when I was little, but I never presented with a power.” He spoke. Grian couldn't see his face from where he was, but he could hear a little tremble in his voice. They both knew that Scar did have a power, so he was interested in where this story was going.

“I used to pretend I had powers like Grim, or TFC, hoping that one day it would actually happen. It's not odd for powers to come in later in life. Though, for certain powers it is also possible they were just always there, but so subtle you would never know. I was the latter.” Grian winces and coos quietly. Scars weren't even preening anymore, just petting gently.

“I was playing in school with some friends one day and he noticed that everytime I wished for something simple, like a quarter on the ground or a free swing at recess or the last copy of Giga Corp. comic, it somehow always happened. They said I was so lucky… And it got me thinking… I was 11 and didn't have a power yet so what if it was something so incredibly rare that nobody else even has it? I decided to test it.” Something in his voice sounded dark. “On my way home that day I just…walked into traffic.”

“What!” Grian squawked, trying to sit up to look at Scar. “Just to test if you were lucky? Try and find a fifty dollar bill not kill yourself!” Scar huffed, pushing Grian back down. He felt his wing throb at the movement. Seeing Scars face made him feel a little better though, his tears had stopped even if his eyes were red rimmed.

“So far everything was passive, I needed to know it so I could control it. I had to try something that was my choice and my actions. When I walked onto the road, suddenly it was just clear. And then, when I got to the other side, nobody bumped into me on the sidewalk. I was shocked. Sure, maybe it was a coincidence but… I was excited so I ran home to tell my mom and dad. I didn't really know at the time what I had, but I knew it was something. Of course, they didn't believe me that I had any power, but said they would take me to the doctors to get tested the next day. I was so excited I almost didn't sleep that night, I wish I didn't.” He stopped talking, just continuing to pet Grians wings. Grian just let him, he didn't know where the story was heading, but it didn't sound good by the tone of Scars voice. After a few minutes of silence, he spoke back up.

“I woke from a nightmare that night, I don't remember it now but I know I wanted my mom. So I went to my parents room and opened the door slowly. Their bed was perfectly framed by the moonlight coming in front of the window behind them. I crawled in between them holding my blanket, my mom rolling over to hold me closer. I was just about to fall back asleep when the glass window above us shattered. My mom screamed and pulled us off of the bed. We were both getting cut up by the glass pretty badly, it's where most of my scars came from…” He takes his hand out of Grians wing to rest the fist on top. He's sure he felt more tears fall into his hair as Scar spoke. His breathing had picked up with a tremble in his voice.

“I watched them kill my dad. Assassins, I think. I can understand why, now that I’m older and see how the world works. He wasn't a very good mayor. But he was my dad…and I loved him as much as a son could at 11. They were dressed in dark purple hoods with black pants, around two or three people. I just remember the whole time begging and crying for them to stop, and they didn't. They left as soon as it was done. I wouldn't call that lucky Grian.” Grian forgot that that's what they were talking about, Scars power. He was too busy trying not to cry at the heartbroken sound of Scars voice.

“We were taken to a hospital and then suddenly my mom was a single mother trying to keep us afloat. The city didn't help us much since my father wasn't a very loved man. I spent all of my time trying to make my power stronger so I could become a successful Hero. I lied, telling my mom I found out I was a sharpshooter. And in combination with my luck I got into the intern program, you know it all from there.” He swallows thickly. “I never told anyone about my luck because it doesn't help anybody but me. It's selfish.”

“You told Boatem?” Grian asked, phrasing it as a question even though he already knew.

“I did. Thought that maybe they could find a good use for it, much good that did them. Look where we are now. Not only did my dad get killed when I was right there, but Boatem disappeared right in front of me and I still wasn't able to do anything . It's why I don't turn it off. As long as something good happens to me then maybe, just maybe, it might benefit those around me too.” He sucks a breath in as he cries quietly.

“Oh Scar. ” Grian whispers, struggling to get his arms under him. He feels Scars hand roll off his back and he lifts himself up slowly to pull himself all the way into Scars lap. His wing and body throbs but he doesn't care. He wraps his arms around Scars chest and hugs him tightly as he cries for the umpteenth time today.

“None of that was your fault Scar. Bad things just happen…” He holds him together as he speaks.

“Then it's useless!” He sobs, pulling Grian closer, being unwaveringly gentle with him. “I don't know where Boatem went, and no matter how hard I focus my power, I am never lucky enough to find anything about them. I’m useless!”

“Don't say that!” Grian bites without malice. He pulls himself back placing both his hands on Scars shoulders. He makes Scar look into his eyes as he speaks again. “You found me!” He starts, raising his hands to cup Scars face, using his thumbs to whip some tears away. “And you saved Alister in the alley, saved me in the strip club, and even before that you saved Watcher, RedStone and Mighty from the Dragon Witch! You are such a good Hero whether you are alone, or with people Scar.”

“You think I am a good Hero?” Is all Scar asked, shattering Grians heart. It's the first time Grian has ever realized that Scar was insecure about being a Hero. But it makes sense when he thinks back to his dreams…Watcher constantly didn't trust him and that was only in the dreams he saw. How rude of his past self to not even give Scar a chance.

“Of course you're a good Hero. An amazing one…” He hugs Scar close again, holding his head against his shoulder and they just sit there. They will have to escape soon, but for now all they want is to just bask in their closeness while they can.

They both know that they will have to do something about everything they found. Grian has to tell Scar what Boatem was up to before they disappeared. Grian knows vaguely what they were doing, but everything so far tells him that they landed themselves almost exactly where Boatem did. They caught the Association manufacturing drugs, and the only question left is why.

Why would the Council send them on a mission, knowing where it would end up? They knew that HotGuy and CuteGuy would find the end of the trail back to the Association. So why even lead them down that way?

Scar starts to lazily preen his uninjured wing. He drags his nails under the feathers lightly scratching every once in a while making Grian chirp happily as he thinks. The room is silent otherwise.

There is a possibility that this was planned from the beginning. Every clue they got seemed to lead them even further into danger. Maybe they were never meant to make it this far…

“They were trying to get us killed…” He whispers as he thinks about it. As Scar registers the words his hand slows to a stop under his feathers. He pauses only for a moment before going back to the gentle preening.

“Your friend, Etho, was it?” He asks back, as if confirming a thought that they both have. It was certainly a lot of money to pay someone. Most wouldn't have that just lying around unless they were one of the biggest media masterminds in Hermit Empire.

“Probably hired by the Association or Council. They probably weren't expecting us to make it this far.” He pulls back to lay back into Scars lap. His wing was really starting to bug him now, twitching every once in a while sending pain through his back. He refused to turn and look at it. Depending on how it looked it might thrust him into his instincts and they really don't need that right now.

“Why even lead us this far?” Scar asks, going back to just petting him lightly. “Maybe they wanted to finish what they started with my dad?” He suggests, twisting a loose feather.

“They could've killed you anytime though…” He says, sounding worse than he meant. Scar scoffs a small laugh though.

“Rude, but true. Maybe…Finish off Boatem?” He sounds like he doesn't even want to suggest the idea. But Grian has to admit that that's exactly where his line of thinking was going as well. It's just too obvious to discredit it.

“Or maybe to finish off me.” He admits. “I shouldn't be here, I don't think.”

“Don't say that!” Scar starts, but Grian carries on.

“No, listen. I can’t remember anything , or I couldn't. But with the dreams it's all coming back! Somehow, I went missing with the rest of Boatem, but I showed back up! Maybe I wasn't supposed to.” His twitches again, a pained chirp coming from his throat. He's going to have to look at that wing soon, whether he wants to or not.

“And that means that they have to be out there still too, Scar.” He warbles. “We have to find them before the Association gets to us. And before my wing gets to bad.”

“I-...Grian,” He takes a moment to breathe a slow deep breath. He scoots forward to sit next to Grian, shoulder to shoulder. Grian looks into his bright eyes, he looks worried or seldom, like he has already accepted a loss. “We can't escape here…” Confirming Grians thoughts.

“Not with that attitude we can't!” He cheeps which turns into an uncomfortable groan.

“No, Grian, I am telling you it is not possible. The point of this place is to neutralize every power without actually taking them away. It's made of man-made concrete to stop earth and weather powers, its melting point is higher than any known fire or magma power, there's no moisture for water powers and the temperature is kept so even you can never tell if somebody is outside the room. Every power was taken into account since this is a Hero cell.” He sounds defeated, like it's simply impossible to beat this room.

Well, lucky for Scar Grian has experience in defeating supposedly impossible rooms.

“What about you?” He says, struggling to get his hand under himself to sit up. Before they even try to go he's going to have to check out this injury. Scar helps him by putting his hand under his arms and lifting him. He sits on the edge of the bed as Scar speaks.

“What do you mean?” He hovers his hands by Grians shoulders to make sure he's steady before scooting forward to sit shoulder to shoulder.

“You said it was built for all known powers, but you said the only people who knew about your Luck was Boatem. And, really, there's no way to account for a power like Luck…and if there was wouldn't we be Lucky if it just…slipped their mind?” He stood from the bed with his back facing Scar. He moves stiffly, getting mentally ready to unwrap his wing as soon as they finish their conversation.

“I-..I’m not sure that's how it works, Birdy. I’ve never really looked into it…” He remarks, an air of confusion coloring his voice. It makes Grian laugh a little, glad to know that Scar is still as clueless as always.

“Either way, we need to get out of here and get back to Doc. Do you-” Grian goes to pat his pockets, just now realizing that he's only in the tank top and leggings that Scar had given him before. Now that he thinks about it, both him and Scar had been stripped of their weapons and bag leaving them just in their clothes.

It makes sense since they were technically thrown in a cell, but it certainly is a little bit of a set back.

“Are you wondering about this?” Scar hesitantly says, making Grian turn around to face him. He catches the glint of the light reflecting off of a little glass vial in Scars hand. It was filled with milky white substance, and Scar is smiling softly with hope in his eyes. Happy, like he's proud of himself.

“I hid it on me right before they threw the splash potion…I guess I got Lucky they didn't find it.” Grian chirps happily, clapping his hands and bouncing on his toes with a bright smile. He doesn't reach for it so Scar puts it back into an inside pocket in his shorts. “Usually, this building has cameras literally everywhere…but maybe we’ll be Lucky they have maintenance for the next few hours.” He brings up a hand to scratch nervously at his neck.

“Scar, if I wasn't in massive amounts of pain, I would hug you so hard.” Grian said as seriously as he could, making Scar burst out in a startled laugh. Grian then too drops the act, laughing lightly as not to aggravate his wing. He's glad that Scar's attitude is turning around, even if just a little.

“Do you think you might have just enough Luck for me to have a bobby pin in my hair? You know, so maybe we can Luckily pick the lock?” Grian asks, Scars eyes light up even more brightly while he laughs rising from the bed.

“Well, I hope I am!” He reaches up and tucks a piece of hair behind Grians ear, and when he come back hes holding up and single bobby pin. Grian cheeps kindly as his ear feathers slap Scars hand away because it tickles.

“What a lame magic trick.” He jokes lightly. “I hope you have some Luck left to make sure the guards outside the door are about to do a shift change.” He smiles, taking a step away from Scar.

“I'm sure it will be around that time… Shall we?” He gestures to the door between them while offering the pin to Grian. He takes another step back away shaking his head while turning his back to Scar.

“No um… Give me a minute to check on this.” He explains, taking a few deep breaths.

“Do you need help?” Scar asks in urgency, already forgetting the escape plan to instead help Grian. It makes him coo just a little bit.

“I uh. I don't know. I think I was shot through the wing and it possibly tore either the wound or some feathers I can't tell.” He looks over his shoulder and sees the binding strap attached to him. It looks like it's supposed to be white, but around its center it turned a maroonish color. His feathers are in much a similar state making him suck a quick breath in and snap his head to look forward again. As he releases his breath it comes out as a warble.

“Birdy, I was a lone Hero for a while. I know how to deal with injuries. Let me help you so you don't have to look.” He places his hands on Grians waist as leans around Grian to catch his eye. He knows he has tears building up, watering his lashes. If it hurt quite a bit now, and it's going to hurt a whole of a lot more when they take the bandage off.

“Didn't you say you've never dealt with wing injuries?” To be fair, Grian also very rarely has dealt with those as well. The worst he had sustained in his life was a sprain or a nick or two. This is certainly something that if they weren't together or had bigger worries, he would be panicking so hard.

“No, I haven't. But I’m not here to fix it, I'm here to assess the damage.” He says with a serious tone. He is smiling kindly though, his eyes soft knowing that this is a huge extension of trust. Even as a flock member, letting Scar near his injured wing is a lot. But to be honest, there's nobody else he would rather have.

“Okay just…Ignore the sounds I make cause I won't be able to stop it.” He jokes nervously, heart rate rising and he brings his hands together to play with his fingers.

“That's a non-issue Birdy. After I rewrap it, we will just be on our way okay?” He said, moving back behind Grian. He gives Scar a single nod as he tenses for when he's touched.

“Relax, It's alright. I’m going to unwrap it now.” His voice is as soothing as it is calm. Grian gives a coo of understanding right as Scars hand touches his wing.

He recoils a little away from him with a sharp tweet, but forces himself to step back into Scars hands. The man continues to whisper encouraging words and warm sentiments as he takes hold of the bandages and gently unwraps his wing.

It hurts as he has to pull the bandage away from his wing as the dried blood that was binding the two together. Hes hissing and chittering all the while, his claws flexing and relaxing as he tries to keep himself under control. If he lets himself just slip then he will condemn both him and Scar to the corner of the room for the next few hours as his instincts try and ‘protect’ them from ‘danger.’

His brain is a mess right now of thoughts. Thoughts of ‘get away!’ and ‘I’m hurt, where is flock?’ but also ‘calm down!’ and ‘it's not that bad.’ He has to grit his teeth together when Scar finally pulls the rest of the binding off. Scar sucks a breath in as he looks at his back, and he doesn't want to turn around to see why.

“Can you try and spread it out, or do you want me too for you?” He asks kindly. Grian can not express how grateful he is that Scar asked that question. Literally, he can't express it. But he feels glad that Scar is involving him in the process and asking about boundaries.

But as it is, it's unnecessary.

“You.” It comes out a bit garbled around a twitter. His wing throbs to the beat of his heart, making him wish more than anything he could calm his racing heart.

Scar says no more, gently taking a hold of his blood crusted, outer wing and slowly starts to pull it out. He feels his knees go a bit weak as the burning sting that ripples through his being. It's painful, but he's able to stay standing. He can hear the sound of his feathers separating from each other as it moves.

Finally, Scar makes a click with his tongue before slowly bringing the wing back to its relaxed position. Grian can't help but mimic the click as Scar lets go gently, taking a step back. Grian immediately chirps in panic, starting to turn around whether it hurts or not. He's stopped by hand on his shoulders holding him still.

“It's okay, I’m just going to grab something. Just stay right here.” He says not unkindly. He can do that! He can stay still cause Scar asked.

He feels Scar step away again, his brain yelling at him to follow, but he doesn't. He stays put even as he hears Scar tearing something that sounds like fabric. Footsteps follow him back to Grians wings, as he feels Scar take hold of his wing again.

“Okay, I know what's wrong so I’m just going to bind them up again, alright?” Scar murmurs and he slowly starts to wrap him back up.

Grian just gives a solid nod again, tapping his fingers on his thigh. He's starting to just feel numb now, and he's not sure whether that is a good or bad thing. He really, really doesn't want to think about it. So he doesn't, instead he focuses on keeping himself tweeting and chirping. As long as he lets the instincts out this way, he should be alright.

“All done!” Scar says, lifting his hands away. Grian doesn't even wait a second to turn around and throw himself into Scars arms. He nuzzles his head into Scar shoulder as he chitters to his heart's content. Scar gives a little ‘woah!’ before quickly putting his arms around Grian as well. He then chuckles a little, squeezing him trying to mimic of of Grians coos.

If Grian was even just a little more gone than he already was, they wouldn't be leaving the room anytime soon after that. He cheeps and coos back happily, his one wing flapping behind him.

Slowly but surely he's able to regain his ability to think straight. His chirping comes to a halt and his heart beat slows back to normal. He continues to hold onto Scar though. His wing still hurts like a bitch but being close to Scar makes everything else feel better. He missed his flock so much…

“What's the damage?” He says as his first coherent sentence in the last few minutes. Scar chuckles as he holds him closer.

“It probably feels worse than it is. Lots of blood but it's a clean shot right through the skin of the secondaries. It definitely took a few feathers with it, but otherwise I think it was a clean arrow.” He brings a hand up and cards it through Grians hair making him coo again.

“Good. Well…Not good but better than I was thinking.” He sighs, curling his hands into the shirt on Scars back.

“You've never had a wing injury?” Scar asks, starting to sway gently.

“Not like this… I'm surprised the other didn't break in the fall.” Swaying with him.

“Well, something else must've happened to you then…Watchers wings were impenetrable. And uh…these are definitely penetrable.” He says thoughtfully, as if saying something wise and smart. It takes everything in Grian to not burst out laughing, he's practically vibrating holding it in. “What?” Scar asks, noticing.

“Nothing! Nothing. You're right, my wings have been hurt before so somehow not only is my memory missing, but every instance of being Watcher including the power is gone.” Slowly Grian takes his head out of Scars neck to look at the man. His eyes are still glowing, but he looks a little sad, maybe guarded as well.

“Sorry I don't remember.” Grian feels like he needs to say it. If only he could just remember then maybe they wouldn't be in this mess..

“Don't say that.” He smiles sadly. “It wasn't your fault.” Scar says, but it doesn't give Grian the relieved feeling Scar probably hopes it does. It kinda is his fault…

“We, er- Boatem was searching for the truth about the Association Scar. We knew about the drugs and didn't tell you. There was some plan to tell the media since Mumbo had a neutralizer. I don't know what happened, but we were messing with stuff we shouldn't have…” He admits, trying to remember the important parts of the dreams and summarize them.

Scars expression stays the same with the exception of a little look of longing that passes through his eyes unguarded. He smiles and he extends his hand to tuck the hair behind Grians ear again. He pulls out another bobby pin.

“You aren't the Association that made Boatem disappear. So it's not your fault.” He lets Grian go fully, backing up and turning to face the door. “Come on, the sooner we get to the address Doc gave us, the sooner we can get you healed.” Grian pointably looks down at Scar wrapped thigh, but stays quiet knowing that he will have to force the man to get healed anyways. “Something tells me that they might be doing a guard change right now.”

“Oh, I’m sure.” Grian rolls his eyes and crosses his arms with a small smile. Maybe when they get out of here he can ask Scar exactly how his power works. He's pretty sure he's never heard of another instance of that power, so now that Scar has told him about it he's going to take advantage of knowing.

Scar leans down to start picking the lock, which will somehow be so easy to pick. Grian goes to take a step that way when he feels something under his foot. He looks down and sees what was previously the bandage holding his wing together. It's stained a deep red with blood that he knows is his. He kicks it gently with his boot watching it move, it looks dirty and he's glad Scar found something else to rewrap it with.

It raises the question of what Scar grabbed to wrap him up with. The room was empty, and they both had all their clothes on. Then his eyes roam over to the single cot in the corner of the room. He knows he had his head resting in something green, but it's no longer there.

Suddenly he realizes that the robe he had cut for Scar is no longer on his upper half. He's just wearing the leggings and the tank top. He feels a little shot a sadness shoot through him knowing that Scar used the rest of the garment on his bloody, dirty wings. Most likely even the sleeves which he told Grian to save…

He twists around against better judgment to look, just to confirm. And there it is, emerald green contrasting with the blood red and muddled white of his feathers. A disgruntled chirp slips past his lips so he turns away, slightly saddened by the sight. He hopes they can save the sleeves when they take it off. It seems he has stopped bleeding so hopefully the robe will stay clean.

“A-ha!” Scar says, jump starting him out of his mind. The door between them and the outside world swung open as Scar had finished picking the lock.

Scar stands up with his hands on his hips looking back to Grian with a little pride. Grian quickly abandons his thoughts, and walks over to the door. He stands behind Scar giving him a nod, watching the man lean out the door and check to make sure there was no one guarding. They got Lucky, nobody was in the hallway at all.

Scar grabbed his hand and pulled him through making sure to shut and lock the door behind them. And then they jogged over to the elevator.

“They don't have the stairs stop here, one way in and one way out.” Scar explains quietly. He presses the button to go up and it dings as they wait.

“Sounds dangerous…” Grian says confused. “What if there's an emergency?”

“Birdy,” Scar looks down at Grian with a serious and sad manner. “If you are locked up down here, they do not care what happens to you.” He finishes just as the elevator door opens.

He pulls him inside, clicking the main floor button and then pressing the ‘close door’ button multiple times with urgency.

What a vile way of treating people, Grian thinks. Just lock them up and forget about them? For how long? There had to be a plan for what they were going to do with Grian and Scar. But with the way that Scar spoke about the cell, Grians just glad they didn't find out. It's a wonder more people didn't take a closer look into the odd practices of the Association…

He continues to hold Scars hand as the doors close and start to go up. He understands why Scar is rushing them a bit. They are so close to being free and then they never have to come here again. They will talk to Doc and then do what TFC probably did and disappear after learning the truth. They don't need to know the why, all they need to know is how quickly they can leave.

Maybe Grian can keep having dreams and then they can find the rest of Boatem. He hopes so.

Suddenly the elevator slows to a stop much sooner than expected. They both snap to look at each other with wide eyes and Grian swears Scars flicker just that much brighter. He yelps as he pulls his wings tighter behind himself as a means of his instincts trying to protect them further.

They move into the corner as the elevator slides to a full stop and dings. They grip each other's hand tightly, tenseing ready to either fight or run.

“This isn't Lucky!” He whisper-yells up at Scar, pushing himself tightly into his side.

“I told you I don't know how it works!” He whispers back. They both keep their eyes on the door, shutting their mouths as they start to open.

Slowly, the doors reveal the sound of two people talking, getting louder the more they open.

“-a the cams are down again…” One of them says.

“Of course. I’ll let them know, thank you Poppy.” The doors fully open to reveal the two Heros StarVoid and Poppy. They are wrapped in conversation so they don't even realize that there are two, very wanted and very injured ex-Heros already occupying said elevator.

They both walk in still without seeing them and Scar and Grian resolve to just remind quiet and hope they are both just missed.

“Going up?” StarVoid asks, his helmet muffling his voice.

“Just to the main level.” Poppy smiles. “Thanks!” And that's when it all falls apart.

Just as the door closes Poppy turns with his mouth open ready to continue talking to StarVoid when his head turns just a bit too far. He locks eyes with Scar and freezes for two full seconds before jumping back with a high pitched scream.

Grian lets go of Scar's hand to try and protect his ears and Scar jumps back. StarVoid spins around, dropping into a stance like he is ready to attack. His visor is the same purple color which is still impossible to see his eyes through. His whole body is tense, but then when he seems to recognize Grian and Scar, he relaxes.

“HotGuy? CuteGuy?” He asks, dropping his arms. Poppy had flung himself across the small elevator breathing rapidly with a hand on his chest. He looked properly upset and surprised.

“You lot scared me!” He gripes the obvious. “Why didn't you say anything?”

Both Grian and Scar just look at each other, then say nothing. What was there to say? It's not like they could really trust any of the Heros anymore… But then again, Scar said only minor Heroes were on the list. There are plenty of major ones, so maybe they were purposefully left out of the loop?

He tries to convey this complex topic just through his eyes at Scar, but the man just sends him a confused look back. Grian rolled his eyes with a sigh, dropping his hands. He slides past StarVoid and smashes his thumb into the ‘stop elevator’ button before taking his spot back next to Scar. The elevator grinds to a halt, jolting all of them as they stop.

As he walks back he hears both the Hero's gasp at his back. Oli immediately jumps into action.

“Oi! If you two got injured on the mission you don't have to trap us to get healed. You can just come down and I’ll take care of you!” He rambles, seeming almost nervous. He shuffles next to Grian who just keeps his back to the wall.

“I-...We-” Scar stutters, not knowing what to say. They were both clearly injured so they couldn't lie about that, but they also weren't really injured during a mission.

“If there's an issue, you should tell us.” StarVoid says, piecing together that something is wrong. Grian and Scar look at each other again, still staying silent.

“Look, why don't you let me heal you here and then we can go somewhere else to talk.” Poppy says, going back into serious Healer mode. Grian almost gives in, his wing being fixed right now would honestly solve a lot of his problems. Not all of them, but a lot.

“Heal Scar first.” Grian hears himself say, all heads snap to look at him. The tension is getting more and more tense as time goes on.

“I work on who has worse injuries first, CuteGuy. I should heal you first, and then HotGuy.” Poppy explains.

“No. I’m fine, heal Scar so he can walk better. Please.” He adds the last part after realizing how demanding he sounds.

“Grian,” Scar starts, looking upset at him. He's interrupted before he can continue.

“How about, someone tell us what's going on here.” StarVoid says, crossing his arms. He's tapping his foot and looking directly at Scar as if he can just read the man's mind. Scar looks back, and if Grian knew him any less then he might take his look at face value. But he knows him a lot more than he even though he did, and Scar eyes are all but pleading for StarVoid to help them.

Both Grian and Poppy watch on, confused at the mental stare down. If it was Grian in Scars shoes, he would've folded immediately when being stared down by the StarVoid. But Scar just takes it in stride, and if he looks close enough he might even see his eyes become just a bit glassy.

His helmet moves down, as if assessing Scars body to see if there's anymore injuries. He lingers on Scars wrist which makes Grians blood grow a little cold. Their bracelets, he looks at his own arm. They forgot them at Docs...

And that's when StarVoid breaks. He sighs, placing a hand on his helmet like he's trying to pinch the bridge of his nose.

He doesn't say anything about the black bands, or the absents of. Maybe he realizes that there must be something seriously wrong if they have them off...Maybe he was stringing them along to just get them in trouble (well, even more trouble) later on.

“Grian, let Poppy heal you. We are going to my room.” A relieved sigh erupts from Scars lungs and he deflates against the wall. Grian has no idea what he just watched, but he too feels the tension dissipate just a little.

“But Scar-!” Grian tries to protest but is shut up by StarVoid.

“He will be healed too, but wing injuries are time sensitive. So let him heal it to make sure you'll be able to fly again.” He lightly scolds.

What? Time sensitive? He didn't know that!

And just like that he turns around and lets Poppy have access to his back almost against his will. He's facing Scar, so he just leans onto him to muffle his chirps he knows are going to escape.

Poppy gets to work quickly. He's pretty sure he hears Scar explain a very brief description of events that lead to the wound. He feels the fabric come off and Poppy places his hand into the feathers.

He feels the beginning of the icy chill spread through his limbs, followed by the heat. It feels a little more muted this time and less jarring now that he was expecting it. The light headed loopy feeling is also there, but it's muffled as well. He feels glad for that since he would rather not be out of his head right now.

He still chirps in discomfort though. He doesn't like the feeling of random hands in his wings, no matter how much they are trying to help. Scar puts an arm around his waist to help hold him up as he sways a little. He uses his other hand to pet Grians other wing, hoping to calm him down a bit.

It didn't take long for Poppy to pull back. He takes his hands out of his wing with a level sigh. The pain was gone and in its place was a slight tired feeling. He chirps and without turning around spreads his wings as much as he can in the cramped elevator. It feels gross, dried blood between the feathers grating against his skin as he moves. But he would take that over the pain any day.

It feels fine otherwise, no hint of pain at all. He pulls away from Scar with pink cheeks at the other two having to witness it. He keeps his head down and moves to put his wings facing the wall again.

“Thanks.” He flicks his eyes up at Poppy, who just gives him a smile.

“S’what I’m here for!” He hands Grian the green robe that was used to bind the wing. It's mostly okay, a few places stained with blood back after shaking it out, the sleeve Luckily survived. He smiles at Scars forethought. Speaking of Scar…

“His turn.” He points a thumb to Scar, whose face goes from a calmed smile to a grimace.

“No thanks!” He says, quickly trying to press the elevator button so they would start moving again. StarVoid gets to it first, using his hand to cover the button so Scar ends up poking his hand.

“Nice try. Let him heal you.” He says down to Scar like a parent scolding a child.

“I can’t.” Scar says back, purposefully poking StarVoids hand over and over like it will do something.

“You can and will. Let him heal you, Scar.” Poppy and Grian look at each other awkwardly, Grian feeling a bit bad for dragging the poor healer into this. They would be halfway to Doc's place if they never got caught, to be fair.

“Scar, it will take less than a minute. Just turn your power off, and then I can heal you.” Poppy joins in. They aren't quite sure why Scar is so against it, but he really does need to be healed before they can go on.

“I-...Xisuma. I can't.” He breathes, intent for only StarVoid to hear.

“You can, Scar. Turn the power off and then-”

“I can't! If I do then I can't stand!” He shouts, his glassy eyes finally producing more tears. Grian isn't sure how he has anymore left to cry. This day is really turning out to be even more of a shit show.

“Scar…?” Xisuma asks quietly, wanting an explanation. He seems to be the only one though because Grian and Poppy seem to arrive at the same conclusion at the same time. Poppy, because he's a medical professional, and Grian because a lot of things just started to make sense. Every little limp and every moment where Scar seemed to be in pain, he actually was. Grian felt a little sick.

“ Oh Scar…” Poppy breathed, wringing his hands nervously. “You know -”

“I know, Oli, I know! And it's already too late, so let's just skip the lecture.” Scar spits, tears falling down. “But right now, Grian and I are in some trouble so I can't turn it off. It will heal on its own.” He reasons, trying to push the elevator button again. This time Xisuma lets up, but only for the button to his room floor.

Scar sighs in annoyance, dropping his shoulders and leaning against the wall bringing up an arm to cover up his eyes. Grian decides to tuck himself next to Scar, understanding that they are in some deep water, but at least they are together.

He keeps an eye on StarVoid and Poppy. They stuck next to each other, both watching Grian and Scar with thinly veiled concern. It actually, in a weird way, makes him feel better. If those two were on the side of the Council, they wouldn't care if they were hurt. They wouldn't care if Scar was hurting himself. Yet they both are concerned and it looks real.

Before they knew it, the door opened to Xisuma's floor. Xisuma waited until all of them stepped off the elevator before leading them to his door. It's a similar set up to Grian and Scars floor, looks much the same as well.

His door is the first on the left, and when he opens the door he gestures for the others to go inside first as well. Scar hesitates, but Grian just walks right in. At this point, with his wing fixed, there's very little that he couldn't get himself out of. Xisuma has large windows, easy enough to jump out of…

They all walk in and Xisuma closes the door behind them. He turns the lock and even twists the deadbolt. Grian knows he should take that as some weird threat, but something is telling him that it's for protection not imprisonment.

His room itself is almost a direct copy layout of Grians and Scars, but it's furnished with little details of personality. Darker colored throw blankets and pillows in blues and greens. He has potted plants dotted around the windows and some even hanging from the ceiling. There's coffee cups and sketchbooks left on the bar table, showing that the Hero had not expected company.

“Scar, take a seat so Oli can heal you. And then, you two will tell me everything.” He says, voice sounding final. He points to Grian and Scar as he speaks, as if they don't know who he's talking about.

Scar does as he's told, taking a seat on Xisuma's white couch groaning as he bends his leg. While it was a thigh wound, flexing the muscle at all still hurt. Grian watches as he doesn't turn his power off though as Oli walks up to his side.

“Scar…” He scolds, making Scar sigh. He flicks his eyes over to Grian, who has walked around the coffee table to give him a slightly disappointed look. But Scar doesn't seem to care, he just looks away out the window.

“Make it quick.” And then his eyes dim down to brown. Oli immediately unwraps the once-green fabric and lays his hand over the bullet wound. His hands light up red and Scar lets out a soft pained sound. It's clear how he's used to the feeling of being healed…

It only takes a few moments, and then finally Oli steps back. As soon as he takes his hands off of Scar his eyes light back. Oli clicks his tongue with a shake of his head, but he doesn't say a word. Grian decides it's about time he takes a seat as well, walking around and plopping himself next to Scar.

Oli and Xisuma walk over back to the front door having a quiet conversation that not even Grian could hear. He opens the door, letting Oli out.

“I expect you to keep this to yourself.” He makes out from Xisuma. He assumes Oli gives an affirmative as the door shuts behind him. He deadbolts the door again before coming back to the front room.

He stands in front of Scar and Grian with his hands on his hips. His full Hero suit is on and it makes Grian wonder what he was doing in the infirmary before he ran into them. He will admit, he doesn't know the Hero very well. He knows how he's got a bit of a soft side, which he learned after he got hired. And that the Hero is a bit of a dad around the Tower.

Thinking about that makes sense on why he was so ready to hear them out. Scar gives him a look that basically spelled out ‘Dad, help us.’ and the Hero dropped it all to do just that.

Now all they had to do was actually tell him what happened…

“So…You remember Boatem?” Scar starts, sounding almost nervous. He plays with his fingers as he speaks. He ends up looking back to Xisuma as the Hero sighs deeply before putting a hand back on his helmet.

“Scar, we've talked about this.” He starts making Scar almost jump off the couch.

“No! Listen-” He tries to explain, but Xisuma doesn't even let him get that far.

“They have been gone for three years, Scar, you have to move forward.” He says not unkindly. Grian gets the distinct feeling that this is a long standing conversation. Both parties seem like they had this argument a thousand times, and it really makes him wonder just how long Xisuma and Scar have actually been friends.

“Xisuma, I have new information!” He finally cuts in, reaching over to grab at Grians hand.

“And what would that be? Neither of us were there, nobody was there when they disappeared. Scar you have to move on…” Scar opens his mouth to rebuttal but his moment is taken.

“Birdy!” A fourth voice calls out from the hallway. They all turn to look as the man barrels out of the master bedroom and zooms to stand next to Xisuma. He's bouncing on his toes with a wide smile on his face. His hair and clothes are ruffled like he just woke up.

There, next to Xisuma, stands one Keralis, staring with wide blue eyes. He's wearing no glasses this time as he looks over the group freely.

“Long time no see, Mr. Cutey! Mr. Hotty!” He gives a dramatic bow, as if he doesn't notice the tension in the room. And to be fair, with everything Grian knows about Keralis, he probably doesn't.

“I’ve been looking for you everywhere! I just have to tell you about what Shashwham taught me about my powers! I basically read people's minds now and it's nuts!” He smiles so widely that Grians own cheeks hurt just looking at him. “Where did you guys go? Oh! I bet on some super secret mission being cool Heros huh? Too famous to talk with your good friend Papa K? I see how it is…”

Grian just blinked as Keralis spoke, the man not stopping to even stutter. Now, he wouldn't call the man a friend per say, but it also seems that Keralis just befriends whoever he wants no matter the other's thoughts on the matter. It doesn't help that he still just feels lost when speaking to the man.

“Keralis, how long have you been here?” Xisuma asks, voice sounding purposefully calm as he interrupts the man so Grian doesn't have to.

“Since last night, I just never left.” He speaks in such a hyper tone, that Grian is having a little trouble following. Keralis stayed with Xisuma last night? He side eyes Scar, who is side eyeing Grian, both equally confused.

“Ah. I see.” He sounds less than enthused, bringing his hand up to his helmet yet again. Keralis skips around the table and sits next to Grian. The man chirps as he almost gets crushed, having to sit closer to Scar. Keralis gives a giggle but backs up a little.

“It's been a while since I saw you! Xisuma taught me how to use my power better! Did you know you can use hypnosis to read somebody's power? I didn't! I can also read past dreams and memories and deep dark secrets! But I wouldn't ever do that to you since we are friends, but once I get out into the field those baddies won't know what hit them!” He uses his hands as he speaks, making Grian have to move around him to avoid being hit.

“Oh how rude of me!” He gasps suddenly. “I've only been here talking about me, myself and I! You have to tell me everything about this super secret mission!” He leans in really close to Grian and brings an open hand close to his mouth as if telling a secret. Grian is so confused he just leans in as well. “Don't worry about Smashwhammy, he won't tell.” He says at full volume, before quickly leaning away again, leaving Grian feeling slightly off center. This is not what he was expecting by coming back with Xisuma.

“I've told you all about my power, but you never told me about you guys’! You both have very cool powers by the way, so tell me about ‘em!” He finally finishes with his hands in his lap. They are given approximately two seconds reprieve before he opens his mouth again, but is Luckily cut off by Xisuma. Grian levels to thank Scar later as he takes a calming, deep breath.

“Keralis, we were in the middle of something.” Xisuma sighs.

“But Shashwham I’m catching up with a friend…” He all but whines. Grian doesn't think he's ever felt more confused than he does at this moment, right now.

“Keralis-”

“I don't have a power…” Grian decides to correct when is brian catches up. He doesn't know why, but that feels important to correct.

The Hero-in-training pauses, giving him a confused look. His blue eyes stare deeply into his eyes, making him feel beastly uncomfortable. But the man looks closer, eyebrows pinching tighter as he moves in. Grian has to back up to make sure that their foreheads don't dump.

Suddenly, Keralis backs up with a frown. Grian thinks it's the first time he's ever seen a negative notion from him. He blinks rapidly a few times, shaking his head enough to cause Xisuma to take notice. He takes the last seat on the other side of Keralis, putting his hand on his shoulder while Keralis palms at his head.

He takes his hand away and turns to look at Grian with crystal clear blue eyes.

“Watcher?” He breathes.

Grian sucks in a breath, much like Xisuma who pulls Keralis gently back to look over Grian himself. Grian just slowly shakes his head, tuning to look at Scar.

“That's what I was trying to tell you… He's Watcher, but he doesn't remember.” Scar murmurs, taking Grians hand.

“I've been having dreams…I just- I don't know.” Grian adds, hoping to alleviate any confusion. Though he's also pretty sure that no amount of talking will even come close to clearing this up.

“You have to believe us…I- I don't know where the rest of Boatem is but-”

“Do you want to know?” Keralis interrupts. Xisuma has been oddly quiet, but he hasn't taken his hand off of Keralis’ shoulder. If anything, he had gripped him tighter.

“What?” Both Grian and Scar breath. Keralis keeps looking into Grians eyes, and then shifting away like he's not supposed to.

“I’m sorry…I’m still getting a hold of my powers and when I look into your eyes I just… fell too deep. Did you also know that with hypnosis you can look into dreams or even memories?” He asked hesitantly, almost embarrassed as if he hadn't remembered he mentioned it already.

It takes Grian a moment to register what he just said again. When he does he feels a mixture of elation and trepidation.

“What?” He asks ever so eloquently. A small smile makes its way onto Keralis’ face looking like it always belonged there.

“When you asked about your power, I went to look deeper to make sure I was correct. But, I fell in. I can't describe it…but Grian, you have a lot of missing memories.” It makes Grian scoff a laugh.

“Yes well, we could've told you that…” He smiles lightly back.

“Who took them away?” Xisuma breathes. Both Grian and Scar pull back a little. Do they just…tell them? Grian is only here because it looks like Scar trusts StarVoid, but that's all he is running on. What if he's working strictly for the Council? What if he's in the Council?

He leans his shoulder against Scar, turning away from the other two to check in. The man looks tired, more tired than he probably naturally would be. The healing must have taken more out of him than he let on…But neither of them can rest yet.

Scar just barely nods letting Grian know through such a small gesture that he trusts Xisuma enough with this. And by extension, Grian does too.

When he turns back he sees a very similar thing going on with the other two. They are huddled close together having a very quiet conversation. He's never seen Keralis be this serious, not on the streets and not whenever they ran into each other in the Tower. He surprisingly can't hear what they are saying, but the way they murmur to each other, they look close. He feels glad that Keralis was able to find a place here, even if right now everything feels a bit upside down.

He waits, leaning comfortably on Scar, for the two to be done with their conversation. It only takes a few more moments for them to lean away from each other. Xisuma leans away crossing his arms, he looks disgruntled through his body language.

Keralis looked excited again, a bright smile gracing his features. It doesn't quite reach his eyes though.

“Okay, so! Shashwham and I decided that you can be my first test on my stronger powers!” He states happily. “Only if you want to!” He quickly amends, realizing how that sounded. It gets laugh out of Grian.

“Will it help me remember?” He asks, knowing that at this point that it's all that's important.

“It will! I can tell what's blocked off and I should be able to lift it off. It shouldn't even be overwhelming. It will just fill in gaps you didn't even know you had!” Keralis pulls his feet up onto the couch and sits crisscrossed, Grian follows.

He feels Scar sit up a little behind him, he can feel him watching over his shoulder. Grians heart starts to beat a little faster at the realization of what they are doing.

Just an hour ago they both agreed that he was most likely Watcher, and now here he is hopefully getting those memories back. He doesn't even know what he's going to do with all that information…He hopes that it's all useful things.

“Are you ready?” Keralis asks, fiddling with his thumbs. Good to know that he's a little nervous too.

“Yes…” He tries not to think of all the things that can possibly go wrong during this. There are just so many things…

“Look into my eyes, and nothing but my eyes…” The man breathes. Grian follows the simple enough instructions, looking directly into Keralis’ blue eyes.

He feels like he's being sucked in and suddenly, he feels like the analogy of ‘falling’ makes perfect sense.

Chapter Text

Grian feels himself be awakened by a harsh knock on his door. His eyes blink open and hears his voice groan as he sits up, swiping a hand over his eyes. It felt heavy, like it was a hefty task to pull off after just waking up. Yet, he didn't feel tired at all.

His head shakes, messy hair flying away from his eyes so he can look at his alarm clock. 3 A.M. huh? Wasn't he just up with someone? Doing something?

Like a train, he was hit with the thought: wasn't he just with Keralis?

He felt his heavy legs swing over the side of his nest and land on the floor as he was still thinking. The movement felt smooth, like he didn't even have to think to do it, akin to second nature.

He tried to reach a hand up to run it through his hair, but found the task impossible. His arm just wouldn't move. What? Instead, his arms pushed himself off the bed and up to standing. He didn't do that!

Grian started walking out his bedroom door, recognizing the place as his flat. Where was Keralis? And Scar? He felt himself trying to turn his head to look more around the flat, because while it looked like his, there was definitely more stuff in here than he remembered leaving. But, his head wouldn't move!

It was dark around where he was walking, but he could tell it was the same layout of his flat. The same hallway from his room into the living and kitchen area, and then next to that, his front door. But even in the dark he could see things were off. The walls were painted a different color than white, and the floor felt possibly like carpet. His was only hardwood…

At this point he felt like he should be panicking. He could feel his body moving in ways that he wasn't directing it too. His wings shift and legs move, but it all feels muted. Like someone else was feeling everything for him, and he was feeling it second-hand.

But for some reason, instead of freaking out, he mostly just felt confused. He feels almost too small for his body. Like the whole being is empty, yet he fills the space awkwardly.

“Hello!” A voice echoed in his brian. It made him jump, or well, jump in a metaphorical way. That felt weird!

“Keralis?” Grian pondered out loud, or well, ‘outloud’ but also not. He was watching through the eyes of himself as he navigated dirty clothes and blankets on his floor.

“Sweetface! Welcome to your memories! Make sure to keep your hands and feet inside the ride at all times, and remember! All you can do is watch!”

Now that made much, much, more sense. He's reliving a memory, or well, a memory of Watcher, who is also himself. That's a revelation that he thinks should feel more important. Like, he knew that. But he didn't know that. Or maybe he didn't want to believe it.

“Stop thinking so hard, it feels weird.” Keralis giggled from somewhere to his left. Or, the feeling of his left. Technically, to his left was a couch.

“Where even are you?” Grian watched as his arm lifted to the handle of his front door, his hand shaking slightly yet he felt no form of fear. What was he scared of?

“I’m around. I can't talk for long since I have to keep my power going this whole time, but I didn't want to leave you too confused. A few things to know, this is your memory. So anything that you don't really remember, you won't see. Or feel!" He tacked the last bit on quickly, like the thought just came to him. He spoke a little quieter as if a little bit embarrassed. "I uh- haven't quite figured out how to get all emotions to transfer over. So you’ll only feel the important stuff, okay?” He ended his sentence with a question but moved on much too quickly for Grian to even ask anything.

The door swung open before Grian could think of a proper response. He immediately raised his hands into the air, but didn't take a step back. Behind the door stood, what Grian could only assume, was the entire Hero Association Council. Grian instantly recognized them as the people who broke into his and Scars rooms. There were around twenty of them, all varying sizes and heights, yet they were all dressed the exact same.

Full, dark purple robes that reached all the way to the floor. The fabric looked heavy, and expensive, being lined with intricate golden threads and detailings. A gold rope was tied around their waists, with the excess hanging all at equal lengths. They had circular white masks around their faces that looked distinctly like the one that Watcher used to wear, though theirs had a golden painted eye in the center.

He also recognized the Hero Association seal and motto. It was creepy there, but it was even creepier to have twenty of them staring him down. This was just a memory, but Grian had remembered the dreams where he had said he met with them often. He wondered if we could relive those memories too.

Grian could vaguely feel his heart pick up pace as his mouth opened. Presumably he was about to say something, and knowing his background it was probably going to be sarcastic. But from the dreams, he also knows that this version of himself tends to lean a little more demure. Either way, his mouth snapped shut immediately as movement was seen from the side of the council.

He turned his head and he felt his own heart instantly stopping. There, arms restrained and struggling against his capture, was Mumbo. It's been so long since he's seen him, but there he is. His raven black hair slightly covering his eyes, a light scowl on his face and those stupid matching pajama sets he always wore. And while he knew this was just a memory, it felt so real. He felt like it would be so easy to reach out and touch him. Grab him and hold on as bone crushing, and as long as he could.

He somehow catches his eye as he weakly struggles in the hands of a Council member. Grian tried to convey a whole bunch of messages just through his eyes, knowing that there was no way Mumbo could know he was watching. He could feel the eyes of his past-self soften when their gazes met. Grian felt himself shake his head side to side then, as if telling Mumbo to back down. The Hero seemed to slump just a little, his eyes squinting and turning away from him.

Grian then caught the sight of both Pearl and Impulse, the two of them doing much the same as Mumbo. Pearl. His lovely sister Pearl. Grian is sure that if he could cry right now, even through the memory, he would be. There she was. And she was alive, and well. Actually, not well. But alive. Both her and Impulse were valiantly struggling against their bonds but not in any way that mattered. Even though Pearl was fighting against them more than the others, even the spit fire, she was more close to sulking than pissed off.

He found his eyes drawing away from his family (wishing against everything that he'd have one more moment to look at their faces) and back to the group gathered around his door. He felt his chest expand deeply, drawing air in so far he felt his lungs start to complain with no more capacity. And then he let go, all the air rushing out in one long exhale. Without a word he left his flat and closed the door behind himself. His wings were dragging slightly behind him in a way that made him feel self conscious, yet he had no control over what his past-self did.

The figure closest grabbed him harshly, taking his arm and spinning him around before slamming him into the wall by his door. He felt his arms get pulled behind him and his wings got shoved into his back. They flapped back in a way Grian knew neither he nor his past-self would be able to control. He felt a hiss building in his throat, but it never escaped. Instead he heard his voice speak in a way that was softer than he would've ever made it be if he were to be in this situation now.

“You've got us, no need to be so rough.” The hands on his back didn't ease up, but they did stop pushing him so harshly into the wall. Grian hummed, balling his hands up and then releasing them over and over. He felt some sort of metallic rope get fastened around his wrists before someone harshly pulled him by his shoulder away from the wall.

He spun around until he was face to mask with a Council member. He felt his heart skip a beat at the closeness, them being only a few inches away. But himself from the past didn't even flinch. There were no eye holes that he could see but he felt so unbelievably watched that if he could, he would one hundred percent be reaching for some kind of weapon. But he didn't do that, instead we just waited until the member walked away, given the simple command to follow.

And follow they all did. The four had no handlers, all the members walking ahead of them, yet nobody even tried to make a break for it. What were they doing? They had a perfect path of escape right now, and they were wasting it!

Grian felt his eyes get drawn over to a door they were about to pass. It was the last door before the elevator hallway, and it was cracked just slightly. All of them walked right past it and turned down the hallway, except Grian. His feet stopped right at the edge, just as everyone else disappeared.

“Scar, do not follow us…” His voice spoke quietly to seemingly nobody. “This isn't something that you need to be involved in.” Grian felt confused. Scar? He wasn't even there, at least that he saw maybe if he could just move around then-

As if being called, the door suddenly was pulled open revealing a slightly disheveled Scar. He looked to be wearing his old Hero outfit, hastily put on over his pajamas. The green clashing quite a bit with his pink pjs. His hair looked as if he had just rolled out of bed, unbrushed and unruly. Grian feels a small, fond smile on his face seeing the state of scar. This smile doesn't reach the Grian in the memory though.

Notably, Scar’s eyes weren't orange. Just the honey brown that Grian doesn't know if he will ever get used to.

“Who are those people? Are you guys okay? Actually, dumb question. Let me just-” He spoke softly but quickly. Stepping around Grian to try and get at his bound wrists. And while present-Grian would love for Scar to set him free, past-Grian just turned his body away from Scar. He faced the young Hero once again and just shook his head.

“No, Scar. We will be back later, we just need to have a little meeting with the Council. It's okay, promise.” He was lying, he didn't know how he could tell, but he was definitely lying. If there's one thing he knows about his past-self, it's that he seems to like to blow Scar off.

Scar seemed to realize that he's lying too, dropping his arms to his side. He had a slight puppy tilt to his head with a confused look accompanying it. Some things really never change…

Scar took a step away from Grian, eyebrows scrunched up with confusion.

“G, I saw what they just did to you, Impulse Pearl and Mumbo. Let me help you.” He tried to take one more step towards Grian, but again he backed up. Why? He had a perfect out here, why not let Scar just help! Something bad was clearly about to happen!

“You aren't ready to get wrapped up in this Scar, go back inside.” Oh, so that's what this was about. Past-Grian having some sort of bias against Scar and his abilities… It was like a switch was flipped while looking at Scar. He went from concerned, to almost annoyed as quick as a blink.

“Not ready? Really? I’m a Hero, Grian, let me be one!” He whisper-shouted, but it didn't seem to make his past-self budge.

“No, we got ourselves into this, and I know how we get ourselves out. Now go back into your room. I’ll come find you when this is done, okay?” He said, feeling his lips pull into a soft, almost convincing, smile.

It was convincing enough that Scar seemed to buy it, at least a little. Curse him for being so nice! Grian tried to fight the memory again, doing anything to try and get himself to say something, anything, to get Scar to actually help them. But it was all in vain. Scar nodded sharply with a hint of orange flitting inside his eyes. He turned and walked back into his room, shutting his door softly.

Grian released a breath he literally didn't know he was holding. He still wasn't quite sure which feelings carried over, but it was getting a bit annoying not knowing. He wonders what he was thinking or feeling back then. Was it just pure annoyance at Scars stubborn persistence? Was it protection out of love? He supposes once he gains all his memories the feelings associated with them would follow but as of right now he is annoyed and upset with his past self for treating scar that way.

After Scar closed his door, he felt his feet shuffle around the corner to catch up with the rest of the group. It didn't take long as they were all waiting patiently for the elevator. He just sided up next to Pearl as if he was never gone. He wondered if they even knew he was…

Once the doors opened, the Council parted ways and shoved Boatem in first. They were accompanied by five or however many they could reasonably fit in the elevator with them. He wasn't sure what for. Clearly past-Grian wasn't planning on escaping anytime soon, so really this big to-do wasn't really needed.

The doors closed and they started to descend.

If Grian had to wager a guess, he would assume they were going to a lower level. They had to be taking them somewhere with privacy, and the only place Grian knew of that was hard to get to were the archives. Maybe there was more to that place than he thought…

Suddenly, they stopped prematurely from where Grian thought they would be heading. The doors opened revealing the hallway that he knew was on the main floor. They were shuffled calmly past the front desk, the lady not even batting an eye as they walked past. Grian always found her suspicious, and clearly his past-self knew something about her as well since he didn't even spare her a second glance.

They walked down the hallway Grian had really only been down once on the very first day he was here. The hallway to the left, where he was instructed to stand and wait for his audition to take place. Well that made no sense. Why would they be going to a room that's very accessible on the first floor when they could be going to somewhere like the archives or at least the training room?

And still, none of Boatem was even trying the struggle! They just calmly walked on behind the Council. Were they under the influence of a power? He didn't feel like he was, but maybe that's a feeling in a memory that can't transfer over… Or maybe his past-self was right and there really is nothing to worry about… His stomach twisted at that thought, but it was a possibility.

The audition room looked much like the last time he saw it, which is odd considering that this memory had to be at least three years ago. Guess they never change the decor around the Hero Tower. Much like his last time though, the tall ceilings were a huge temptation. He felt the phantom feeling of his wings twitching behind himself.

He continued to look on through his own eyes as the Council led them past the judgment seats. Unlike the last time he was here, they are completely empty. Nobody was sitting there waiting for his audition or asking him odd questions. It's a weird feeling knowing that his audition was only a few weeks ago in the present day.

Instead of leading them to the ‘x’ on the floor though, they went straight past and directly to the door off to the side. Grians heart skipped a beat realizing where they were actually going. The Room. Last time he was there he barely made it out, at least, according to Scar. But his past self didn't seem to have nearly as many reservations as he just walked straight in with no hesitation.

It was extremely dark just as he remembered. He couldn't make out a single thing as they all crowded in, including those who had not joined them in the elevator. He didn't know whether they all had to be cramped up like this. He never saw how big the room actually was. But with all of them together like this in the dark Grian knows it would be so easy to start untying each other's bonds. Yet his hands are not his own to move right now, and they make no move to do such a thing.

Someone shuts the door, leaving them in disorientating pitch darkness. Grian knew that his past-self was not even a little concerned for what was going on, but Grian now was freaking out a little. Were they going to have to go through The Room again? He barely made it through last time…

Then suddenly the lights flipped on. The quiet hum of fluorescent lightning overhead was heard by all and past-Grian searched for the one who turned them on. Yet everyone was standing in the very center, so possibly a power of some sort? It was impossible to tell from who though.

The Room was completely white around all sides, the only thing he could make out was the edge of the door they came from. Suddenly, Grian started walking to the edge of the room, followed by everyone else. He kept getting closer and closer to the plain white wall and showed no signs of stopping. Grian felt like he wanted to place his hands out in front of himself, or brace for impact even though he wasn't even sure he would feel it if he did.

But then he stopped. Only a few inches away from the completely empty, white walls, and waited for a few seconds. Grian almost felt like the waiting was self-satisfactory, before finally a glass sliding door appeared before him. He felt his lips twitch into a smile as the door opened itself and he walked through.

Beyond the door was a hallway Grian had never seen before, nor did he know it even existed. Looking around as much as he could, Grian felt like a shudder would run down his back if he was ever truly there. Much like everything, it was mostly white, but the floor was made out of royal purple tile. And randomly along every surface was gold painted eyes. He couldn't prove it, but as he walked by them it felt like they moved. Like he was being watched by the walls.

His past-self kept moving forward though, as if completely unbothered by the creepy hall. Grian knew that this wasn't the first time he had supposedly met with the Council, but did that mean that he had to walk through here every time he did? Maybe he was just used to it… It would explain how he just knew where the hidden door was. Weird…

It wasn't very long until he reached yet another elevator. It was at the very end of the halfway, inlay a bit to the wall with golden trim around the frame. This one also looked much bigger, being able to hold each member of the council plus Boatem.

Grian was looking directly forward as the doors closed, each side completely half of a huge eye staring directly back at him. After the doors closed it was about ten minutes before they opened again. The whole time Grian was just wishing that his past-self would look away from the damn creepy eye mural. He would much rather see his family a little more than whatever intimidation tactic this was.

It was hard to remember that at this point, his past-self would've been seeing Pearl, Mumbo and Impulse everyday. So as Grian feels depraved and wants to just make sure that they are okay, this Grian has no clue what is about to happen. He has no reason to fear losing them for the next three years.

To get his mind off that sad thought, Grian starts to feel where they were being led. It was far lower than any other part of the building that Grian had ever been to, or even knew existed. Or well, the Grian he was now. Clearly his past-self had been here multiple times if he already knew how to get here…

When the doors finally opened they opened directly into a room that looked almost like a courthouse. That is if the courtroom had several judges and stood 20 feet above the people on trial.

They are arranged in a semicircle around a big white patch on the floor in the very center. Off to the sides were purple concrete pillars that stretched terribly high up into a dome-like ceiling. Painted directly in the center of the dome, looking down on the white spotlight of a floor, was yet another golden eye. Each and every other piece of the room was painted some off shade of purple.

The Council members filed out first and up onto their chairs. The last ones to leave corralled Boatem into the center of the white tile, before slashing their bonds and then leaving them alone before the head Council member.

It was so quiet that Grian feels like the saying of ‘hearing a pin drop’ might actually have some merit. He looked to either side of himself, seeing Mumbo and Impulse both rubbing their wrists. He assumed that Pearl must be behind him doing much the same. Neither Mumbo or Impulse are looking at Grian, all they have eyes for is the room around them.

Finally, after some time, the Council member sitting directly in front of them stands up and addresses the room.

“It is time to begin, my Eyes.” They speak into the open air. One member stands up, their mask the same as everyone else's.

“We have seen what you have done.” They say down to Boatem, almost flat. Grian feels himself roll his eyes. “You have been acting without permission, against us. We've seen .

This was incredibly creepy. Everytime one of them stops a sentence, another one picks it right up.

“We have seen what was almost completed by RedStone.” They say as Mumbo scoffs to his side. “We call this treason!” They shout all at once. He sees everyone flinch beside him, yet he stands true.

Suddenly, from there the memory somehow goes fuzzy, the sounds get muddled and the sight gets hazy. Grian tried to shake his head, metaphorically, yet it didn't help. It's as if for some reason this part of the memory isn't as strong.

“Sorry! I can only help you remember what you do actually remember. You kinda just spaced out during this part!” Keralis says, sounding somewhat nervous. It makes him jump, forgetting that Keralis was even there. He supposed his reason made sense, but he kinda wishes he knew what they were saying here…

He also wishes he knew what he was thinking here. He had to be spacing out for a reason. Was it possible that maybe both now, and the ten minutes in the elevator, he was just…thinking? Maybe of a way to get out of here? He can't say, but he hopes that's what's going on.

The picture gets clearer after a few more moments, and his hearing comes back too.

“We see all.” The leader asks, watching as the rest of the Council nods in unison.

“Watcher, come forward.” As if shocked to hear his name, Grian stumbles a bit closer, yet doesn't leave the white circle. He can feel the scowl on his face as he looks up to address the lead Council member. “You are the leader, we have seen. What say you? All we do is help.”

“Come off it!” He shouts, surprising them both it seems. “Erm- Just,” He tries to correct. “You've already seen it with those creepy cameras you keep around, so there's no point to a trial.”

“I suggest you watch your tongue, Hero, this isn't just a light disagreement of which you seem to find a perchance for.” They spoke disjointed as others either spoke at the same time, or took over random words in the center. A shutter seemed to go down Grians back and through his wings. He turned his head slowly and Grian hoped he would catch another glance at his family.

His ask was answered but not in a way he wanted it to be. He certainly saw them, but somehow, at some point they had been shoved to their knees. There was nobody holding them down, but none of them were even trying to stand back up.

They were looking up to Grian all with some look of conviction and acceptance that if Grian was truly there he would feel heartbroken at. Why were they all just okay with what was happening?

Suddenly, Mumbo opened his mouth and spoke.

“If I may, this looks to be a pretty open and shut case from here.” Even past-Grian flinched back at the Hero's tone. The typically soft and quiet man had a hard edge to his voice that was completely out of character.

“Yeah, so you may as well get the whole villain speech over with!” Pearl spoke up, waving her hand around flippantly.

“I would rather get this over with yeah.” Impulse nodded along. Grian just turned his head back slowly to look at the Council. Grian really wished that feelings could transfer over because he was very curious as to what past-him was thinking right now. But if his sweaty palms were anything to go by, Boatem wasn't supposed to be talking back like that. Though, he also feels the slight smirk held on his face as well. So maybe they really did just talk this way to the Council.

A loud slamming of a desk was heard to their right, making them all flinch and look over to where the sound had come from. One of the Council members was standing with their hands flat on the desk while leaning over. They had stood up with such force and their chair was knocked over.

“Bite your tongues, Heroes! Do you not realize the trouble you are in?” The question made them all pass glances to each other. And while they all certainly looked startled, none of them looked particularly scared. What was going on?

Grian felt himself swallow nervously as he took a step closer to the speaking Council member.

“Listen-” He tried to start but was interrupted.

“No, Bird, you listen here.” The one Council member sat back down (how the chair stood back up, Grian would never know) while the leader commanded the room's attention. “I think there has been a misunderstanding here. You, Team Boatem, have committed the highest treason against not only the Hero Association but Hermit Empire as a whole.”

Grian balled his fists as his feet felt rooted in place. The feathers around in ears and on his wings were ruffling and shaking themselves out in annoyance at the same time. A self soothing measure that he rarely feels himself ever getting to. He felt himself take several deep breaths in and out, his lungs expanding almost too much before releasing the oxygen. None of the rest of Boatem spoke up before he did.

“I say, we were doing our job. Protecting the people from the likes of you!” He spit, shocking the Grian watching through his eyes. “Everything we did was to try and stop the drug you were producing from getting in the hands of civilians. We ran the data, and you are targeting powered people! We aren't just going to sit back and watch like you!”

“We didn't expect you to.” They stated calmly, it somehow felt like slapping them all in the face.

“Wh- what?” Impulse breathed.

“Oh but you all seemed to have it all figured out! We manufacture a drug that will kill off powered people, and then we rise in power. End of story right?” A few of them gestured their arms out wide as they spoke, and if it was from anyone else it might have looked like an invitation for a hug.

“Is…Is that not what's happening here?” Mumbo spoke up, voice going back to his even and softer tone.

All at once, every Council member broke out in an evenly spaced raucous laughter. It lasted around ten seconds before they all stopped at the same time. Now the rest of the Boatem members decided to sit just a bit closer and lean on each other while Grian stayed standing.

Now, present-Grian knew that he himself had never actually met the Council until just now, but he would say that their presence was always to some degree, felt. Everywhere in the Hero Tower felt like it was being watched, and now that he just heard something about hidden cameras, he was sure they were.

But the fact the past-Grian was still not standing down goes to prove that this isn't the first time he's had to deal with these people. He wonders how often he did…He remembers the one dream that mentioned the whole of Boatem (minus Scar) going to a meeting, but through his actions so far it seems that his past-self had to have been dealing with them alone quite a bit, if he was this calm in the face of them. He is sure if anyone were to have witnessed this particular behavior by a group of people they would be scared out of their wits, as evident by the other members of Boatem.

“Sure, power would be nice, but you know what would be nicer? Safe cities, controllable powers, and stronger Heros.” They almost echoed each other, yet still talked all at once. They would pick up words where others left off.

He felt himself take a step back in shock. What? That makes no sense. If they wanted things safer than why distribute drugs onto the streets?

“They look confused.” One of them spoke, almost sounding like pity.

“It's a difficult concept for most.” Another answered. Grian felt like his brain was starting to spin. There was so much information being thrown at him, and half of it was supposed to be assumed knowledge. Maybe this wasn't the best memory to start off on.

“Let me explain something to you and your little found family group.” They hummed, “Over 70% of the population has powers, yet over 98% of crimes are committed using some sort of power. And of this 70% population, at least 5% have powers that could put them in the top ranks as Heros. But they choose to do evil with it! So, instead, we will slowly kill off the powered population and take the survivors as Heros! That way, everyone can be safe and the Hero Association will continue to thrive!” They threw their hands up dramatically and the rest of the Council started to clap their hands in unison.

“That's wrong!” Pearl shouted, interrupting their claps. “Those are people that you are playing with! What? Just get them addicted to a drug that will ruin their life and then hope it kills them? That's awful!”

“Yes, MoonLight, we know your opinions on it. We have found your antidote and have promptly destroyed it.” They waved off, making Mumbo choke.

“Destroyed it! It was almost done!” He whined in a way that Grian almost forgot about how endearing it was. It was a poor time to be doting on his family but he will take anything he can get at this point.

“We are aware, maybe be quicker when dealing with D.U.S.T.? You truly are a slow learner.” They huffed. Mumbo jolted back like he had been stung, Grian knowing that that was one of his insecurities. How dare they!

“Fine! So now what?” Grian speaks up, bulldozing over the attack on Mumbo's character. “We are already aware of what you do to those who defect, so get on with it.” Grian huffed back. He turned to look back at the faces of Boatem, and all of them were resolute, like they too know what is coming. So they had already planned for if, or when, they got caught? But how did past-Grian know?

“Oh, do you now?” They spoke, all tilting their heads to the side.

“I thought you know and see everything?” Grian cheekily snarked back. They tsked, all slowly standing up until there was nobody left seated. It would be intimidating if Grian was actually standing there, and not just watching.

“Enlighten us.” They spoke at once, and maybe if Grian was paying any more attention then he might have felt the ground vibrate just slightly.

“I've seen the files you forgot to make disappear. We know what TFC tried to do, and what you did to him afterwards.” Grian sated, thoroughly shocking the Grian watching through his own eyes. So, TCF didn't actually retire…

“He failed too, so just give us the standard memory wipe and power erasure and send us on our way.” Grian sounded so sure of himself while he spoke. As if he didn't just drop a bomb of revelation on his future-present-self.

“Oh no.” They interrupted Grians thinking. “You've got it all wrong see,” Many of the members sat back down, while a few stayed standing. “He was just the first, so he got off light. You four, should have known better.” They sighed in unison. Grian finally took an unsteady step back.

He flicked his head to look at the rest of his family, and they too looked perturbed. They had slightly panicked looks on their faces like something was not going to plan.

Grian got the distinct feeling that this is where everything started to fall apart.

“We don't want to risk you four somehow coming back. You're lucky that you didn't bring your fifth little member into this. You were smart to keep him out of this.” They all cooed and tilted their heads condescending. Grian couldn't tell if telling Scar to stay in his room was actually a good idea or not. Considering how this was going, maybe his past-self had a point.

“Let's keep moving. Bring it out!” They suddenly snapped their fingers in front and then appearing from deep purple haze, three figures stood.

Two were Council members, Grian could see that there were two missing from the previous seating above him. And the other was, at first, unrecognizable. Clearly, the rest of Boatem did though, if their loud gasps were anything to go by.

They had a very familiar uniform on, along with the fact that they were wearing a helmet. They were being held steadfast in the Council members grip as they stood slouched forward. They looked more roughed up. Some places were torn and Grian saw a crack down the visor of their helmet before they had put their head down. He could hear them breathing from where he stood. What did they do?

Then suddenly, one of the Council members holding them kicked their leg out bringing them down to their knees. The other, while the person was still falling, grabbed their helmet and pulled it off. They tossed it to the side with a harsh clatter, making the person's face visible.

Yet, not. Even as the Council member gabbed their hair and pulled their head up, Grian was confused at the lack of…well, face. It was blurry and impossible to dephire, but not in the powerful Hero Aphrodite way, but just, he couldn't really tell what he was seeing. As if, he didn't want to remember what he was seeing…

Even so, suddenly he was hit with remembrance of the only person he knows that wears a helmet and outfit even a little similar to the ones this person was wearing, StarVoid.

“Team Boatem, for the act of committing high treason against the very Council you vowed to protect, we sentence you to death worse than nothing. You will be joining whatever lurks between realms, between worlds, and between everything and nothing at all. You all will be sent into the Void!” Their voices boomed as other voices joined them as they spoke.

“What!” Pearl shouted, fear finally tainting her voice. Both Mumbo and Impulse echoed here with their own shouts of disdain.

Yet Grian stood still, eyes not leaving the sad state of StarVoid. The Hero lifted his head presumably looking directly into Grians eyes and he shook his head in a soft ‘no.’ Grian just fluffed his wings and tilted his head to the side.

Out of all the things that Grian thought was going to happen, this was certainly not it. So Xisuma had a role to play in Boatem's disappearance, yet he has said nothing over the years? Not only that, why use him in the first place? What is his role here? He found it very hard to believe Xisuma is on the side of the council. Especially when considering how harshly they have been treating him thus far.

He was a Hero known for redstone contraptions, he doesn't even have a publicly known power. And to all known laws, the only kind of people who can access the void are Void Walkers and their hybrid counterparts…

Grian is suddenly thrown back to the moment he had met and had lunch with the other Heros in the Hero Tower. He has learned that StarVoid was a Void Walker, but didn't really know what that meant since he never talked about having a power associated with it.

Oh… Oh! Oh, no.

“I said I won't do it.” Xisuma weakly struggled against the Council members holding him.

“Again, we are well aware, StarVoid.” They scoffed and Grian got the feeling that they all rolled their eyes. “But we have ways of making you comply.”

Finally, Grian found the nerve to actually move his feet. He abandoned his post next to Boatem to try and get closer to StarVoid, taking a single step and holding his hands trying to reach out to him. His claws were shaking.

Before he could even take that second step he felt a scream tear itself from his throat. Whatever was happening was very muted for Grian, but he certainly felt some sort of electricity coursing through his veins. It felt like a light hum, compared to what it must have felt like when it actually happened.

He suddenly felt himself being pulled back as he tripped over his own feet. Upon landing on the ground he curled up slightly. He could feel himself trembling as he waited for the rest of the electricity to find its way out of his body.

Slowly, he started to make out some of the sounds happening around him again, not even realizing that they had been muffled. Clearly, he wouldn't remember those things while getting properly electrocuted. He could hear Pearl shouting, and feel Mumbo and Impulse's hands running over him.

When he finally felt his past-self try and sit up, he shook his head rapidly as if to shake it off. He flicked his head back at the head of the Council. He was wobbly and had to blink a few times to settle his wavering vision.

They stood calmly in the center, as if they hadn't moved an inch. Only, they had their hand raised pointing at Grian. It may have been a trick of the light, but he swore he saw some smoke coming off the tip of their finger.

They slowly lowered their hand back down at their side. His chest was rapidly breathing trying to catch up what he lost. What was that? Well, he knew what it technically was, but more so what just happened?

“Grian!” Impulse spoke from his left. He was hovering his hands around Grians wings as if wanting to touch, to comfort, but not wanting to do anything Grian wouldn't like.

He missed him so much…

“I’m o-okay…” He rasped. “I’m-”

“I suggest you not try to leave the white rim. It will be painful.” They spoke, several speaking at once.

“We knew the consequences of our actions when we decided to go after you pricks! So what? We were caught! Boo hoo, wipe our memories and take our powers and be done with it! You don't have to involve our friends in this!” Pearl shouted. Grian couldn't help but stare at her and wish that he could actually be there to comfort her. But he is well aware that that is not how this story plays out.

Puzzle pieces are starting to be laid out in a way that sort of makes a picture. They were trying to take down the corrupt Council, and then got caught. They were expecting punishment, but it's clear that this was not the punishment they were betting on.

“I said! Silence!” They once again yell. They raise their arm once more, making Pearl flinch back. Grian feels himself move in front of her before he even realizes what was about to happen. He braces for another attack that luckily never happens. “Your fate was sealed when your little bird stumbled on something he wasn't supposed to.” He blinks his eyes open to see the Council member still holding their arm up, but this time they just snap twice.

Much like the first time, it was sudden. Off to the side of Xisuma three more people appear, and two of them are once again Council members. But this time the person in the center wasn't someone he recognized at all.

He was curled around himself a bit with his arms and head pulled in, well, as much as they could be while still being held up. His long hair obscured his face, but his outfit vaguely resembled that of Xisumas. But where his was forest green and black, this one was reddish. And it was horribly cut up.

His arms and legs were exposed showing the extent of the beating he must have gone through. Blood was still seeping through some of the wounds. Scrapes and reddish green bruises mottled their skin.

Oh, and he was still struggling like a wild horse.

“Fuck off! Th-this is fucked!” He yelled at the ground, though it was clearly meant for the two holding him.

And while Grian certainly didn't recognize him, Xisuma seemed to right away.

“Ex… Ex! Let me go! Ex!” He seemed to get a second wind in fighting back, throwing his shoulders back to shake off their hands as he made mad dash to this ‘X.’ He didn't make it very far, the two Council members getting a good grip back on him and pulling him back. This didn't get him to stop fighting though.

The sound of it made the beaten man face rise and suddenly, Grian understood what was happening. Even through the blurry vision of not wanting to remember, there was the face near identical to Xisumas.

Suddenly, Grian is hit with the memory of a dream he had where Mumbo said something about StarVoids brother… Oh gods…

“Let him go! He had nothing to do with this corrupt Association!” Xisuma shouts, almost breaking free of his captures.

“Ah ah ah! You know what we want from you. Send them to the void, or we kill all of you.” They did a little hand motion into the air and the two released Exs shoulders. He wasn't expecting it, falling on his chin before he could even get his hands in front of himself. “Your little villain of a brother is just extra incentive so you will use your powers.”

With a broken sound, Xisuma was still weakly struggling. Grian couldn't really tell, but he was sure that tears were starting to fall from his cheeks. This was messed up… It would be so much easier to just kill them, but instead they chose to involve two people that had no hand in what Boatem decided to do.

Slowly, Ex picked himself up off the ground and wiped the blood off his chin with his thumb. He sat on his side keeping himself up with one arm. He looks around the room first, giving it a low whistle that turns into a cough.

Now, Grian has never met Ex before. He of course had heard of the less than evil villain named Evil Ex, but that villain had been missing when vigilante Grian showed up on the scene. And while he's pretty sure his past-self had never met him either, he was amazed by how different Xisuma and Ex were. And that's not even to say one is a Hero, while the other is a villain.

They have a different air to them. Ex just feels gruffer, and tougher too. While Xisuma feels kinder and more well rounded. But somehow, they are undeniably brothers.

“Zuma. I-” He started in a voice just a semitone lower than his brothers.

“No! Ex, don't even try it.” His voice shook as he spoke.

“Fuck you, just l-listen.” Exs arm gave out, sending him back onto the ground with a painful sounding ‘thud.’ He didn't even try to finish his sentence as his voice had grown weaker as he spoke.

“I- No! This isn't fair! It's uncontrollable and dangerous! I can’t use it! I don't know how!” He shouts up at the Council members above them all. They act like they don't even hear him.

“Get on with it, Void Walker, before we pick for you.” The Council was starting to get antsy, and Grian really didn't know how they were going to get out of this. Well, he knows that they don't…Since Boatem has been missing.

He watched as Xisuma lifted his head and locked eyes with Grian. He had to just remind himself that this was a memory, and no matter what he thought or what he wished he could do, the outcome will always be the same. He just has to watch.

“I- Xisuma. I don't…” Grian choked out. He turned away and looked down to the rest of Boatem. They looked…scared. It tugged on Grians heartstrings so terribly. This all felt so real… They were so close yet he could do nothing to comfort or help them.

Grian wondered if in this exact moment, both him and his past-self were feeling the exact same emotion. Helplessness.

Boatem just looked up at Grian and shook their heads, they all looked defeated. And Grian was having a hard time accepting it as it was. Sure, he was just watching and couldn't do anything. But this was as close as he's been to his family in a long time. He feels like he's losing again, and again, and again.

After what Grian had seen, he knows that they knew the outcome if they got caught. And while this was a much worse punishment than what they were expecting, it was still a punishment. Some time in between everything and now he had forgotten they had all already come to terms with losing.

Yet Grian just has to deal with it now. Process something that past-Grian had months, years to do, in less than 30 minutes. He wants to fight back! He wants HotGuy to swoop in here and save the day!

But it's all done and over! This isn't fair!

“We forgive you.” He spoke into the air calmly, much more calmly than present-Grian was feeling. “It's okay, we won't blame you. It's not your fault. You were never supposed to know about any of this” He turned back to face Xisuma. The man was curled into himself with his chin to his chest. He was definitely crying heaps, and there was nothing he could do…

“I can't! This isn't fair! We did nothing!” Xisuma cries.

Though this should not be the time, Grian can't help but realize how weird it is to see Xisuma like this. Weird, and scary. He's never seen him produce this much emotion, which is also to say that he's never been that close with him either. He's not sure how close he use to be to Xisuma, but presently they were mostly just co workers.

He thinks back to the Xisuma that is still sitting next to him on the couch back in the hero tower. He tried to mix the person he sees right now with the person he was just talking to seemingly ten minutes ago. It seems like an impossible task.

He knows that Xisuma and present day Scar are pretty close, considering he was so willing to spill the beans to him. It makes Grian wonder if Scar knows what Xisumas was involved in at all.

Does Xisuma even know what he's done? Maybe that's why he comes off as closed off and scary sometimes. It would be quite the secret to hold inside. He's so nice overall, but maybe it's to cover up what he's hiding…

“Oh yes, but with such a pretty power like yours, it would be a shame not to use it for its more, interesting, uses. Imagine what you can do for villain prisons or transportation if you just used your power more! You could become number one.” They spoke, as if they were offering Xisuma something he couldn't turn down. Yet Grian knows that Scar becomes number one, so they are lying straight to his face.

“It's okay Xisuma, we knew this was coming.” Impulse tries to say in some morbid form of comfort.

“Right, mate. We will be okay…” Mumbo adds and Grian doesn't know how they are doing this. They are still so positive knowing that they are about to be sent somewhere where nobody has ever come back from.

“Fuckin’ – X just-” Ex weakly started. Grian couldn't even guess where he was going to go with his statement because he was cut off before he got very far.

“Just-! Everyone! Stop talking!” Xisuma exclaimed suddenly. The room vibrated with the sound of it, shaking the chairs and causing Grian to stumble slightly. “It's not that easy to just choose! It's not fair!” He broke free from the Council members holding him to just fall onto the ground onto his hands and knees. He hit the ground with his fists and yelled something lost to the aether of Grians memories.

Pearl gasped from where she sat, scrambling away from the center of the circle until she hit the back of Grians legs. And when he turned around and looked down he understood why, quickly taking a step back. Mumbo and Impulse got the memo and shuffled back as well.

There, in the very center of the room, was a small but growing completely black hole. It looked fake, like someone had real-time deleted the floor that was once there. It grew, and grew, and grew until it was about 6 feet in diameter.

“Ah it seems like our little Hero has made his choice. Throw ‘em in.”

“No! I can't control- No! I don't want this!” Xisuma shouted, trying once more to break out of the members' hold in vain.

The whole room started to shake once more, this time with significantly more violence. Enough to a point where pieces of plaster and paint were starting to fall. Grian didn't know much about powers (or at least as it stands right now, he doesn't) but it was quite clear that whatever was happening was unstable.

The black hole kept changing shape and size, going from a perfect circle to an oval or even just a shapeless blob.

Grians wings flapped uncomfortably behind himself. This isn't right, something isn't right.

“Throw. Them. In! Before it collapses!” One of them shouted, startling Grian away from watching the hole change shape.

Suddenly, behind every Boatem member was someone from the Council. They grabbed their shoulders and made them stand. It was useless fighting back as they were one wrong step from falling in. Though, either way they didn't seem to have a way out of this.

Somehow, within a memory, it felt like time slowed down. All the Boatem members are on separate sides of the unstable black void hole. The first to be thrown, with little to no preamble, was Pearl. Grian felt himself be propelled forward and not because he was pushed, but out of instinct to grab his sister. He could feel himself being pulled back before he could even so much as touch her sweater, and then she was gone.

Next was Mumbo. He didn't fight it, but as he fell he turned his head to look at Grian. He looked tired, and a little scared. But before he could decipher any more emotions than that, he too was gone.

Then Impulse, ever the fighter, fought them off the hardest. And when he got even slightly free, he jumped himself. On his way down, he flashed a small but sad smile at Grian.

And then Grian was left as the last member of Boatem. They hadn't tossed him in yet, and Grian couldn't guess why. Maybe so he can suffer a bit longer knowing that he was the one who caused this? Maybe so he can think for just one more second about what he could have done, or should have done?

This can't be the end! Clearly, he lives on! And he won't just accept that his family is well and truly gone!

Suddenly, a Council member sided up next to him for just a moment before kicking something at their side. With a deep sigh, Grian hesitantly turned his head down to see the sad form of Ex, Xisuma's twin brother. He was in a state, and he could hear Xisuma shouting from behind them. He couldn't make it out though or maybe he just couldn't remember.

With so many thoughts running through Grians head, he almost missed when they kicked Ex straight into the void with the rest of Boatem.

“You lied! You lied!” Xisuma cried as he stopped fighting.

“You won't remember darling, don't worry. You've proved yourself useful.”

This was all too much to comprehend. It's not fair that Xisuma was dragged into this, or even his brother. But thinking about how Scar talked about Xisuma and the others not believing him in knowing there was something up about Boatems disappearance, the memory wipe makes sense. Present-day Xisuma probably doesn't even know he was involved in this.

There was the heavy feeling of tears sliding down his cheeks and trembling down to his toes. Clearly all this was not what he had been expecting to happen. And by the frantic shake of his head, Grian guessed he was fresh out of ideas on how to get out.

So this was it then huh? All of Boatem gets thrown in a hole never to be seen again? It seems unlikely that past-Grian either found a way out and then somehow ended up getting his memory wiped or somehow convinced them to just let him go.

But here he was, teetering on the edge of literally nothing. The only sound registering was the weak crying coming from StarVoid. Everything else was deathly quiet, until it wasn't.

A sound Grian, both past and present, were intimately familiar with; the sound of a string being pulled and an arrow flying through the air. Grian had his head lifted just enough to watch as it pierced through the shoulder of the tallest Council member, taking them down to their knees as everyone else turned to look at them fall.

A distraction, and a good one at that. But not good enough.

“Push him now!” The leader shouted as they took cover.

“No!” A voice shouted over the commotion.

And that was that. Grian could feel the oppressive weightlessness that was distinctly different from flying. He was falling.

He watched as he threw his hand out, hoping against hope that he could catch the edge or anything on the way down. Before he even knew that most of his body was already past the threshold.

He felt his fingers grip something, and thinking it was the robe of the Council member, he held steadfast. But whatever it was gripped him back. He tried to hold on harder.

Tossing his head up he saw the face of none other than the luckiest man he had ever, and will ever meet: Scar.

His face was twisted in a grimace and struggled to hold onto Grians slipping claw. His eyes, gods his eyes, were blazing an orange so bright, brighter than he's ever seen from the man. He could tell that he was holding onto Scar with his everything, but he was still slipping.

Suddenly everything was starting to feel so incredibly cold.

He could feel it. Starting at his toes and creeping upwards and through his wings. It wasn't even a typical cold feeling of being in the snow too long, or sleeping on concrete. It was an absence of heat. The feeling of it never having been there in the first place. The feeling of never getting it back.

The only place that still had any warmth was where he and Scar were connected, skin to skin just past the lip of the hole. Scar kneeing and tossing his bow out to the side and going to add his second hand in effort to lift Grian back over the edge.

No words were said, but for the first time since the memory began, emotion was bleeding through. Thoughts were bleeding through. And the only thing running through his mind, completely unbidden, was how he wished against wishes that he was as lucky as Scar. That somehow, someway, that he would be able to find a way out of this.

And like that an overwhelming heat spread through Grians body just as Scar lost his grip. Its starts from the hand that had just slipped out of Scars and reaches every possible place from Grians body to his soul and very being. He suddenly feels too big for his body. Like there's too much packed in a little suitcase. He pushes back against it, like second nature, and something behind him pops and bleeds. Or, at least it feels like it does.

Grians claws scramble to reach back but it's much too late. He watches desolate as the hole, and Scars face, gets smaller and smaller. Scar doesn't stop reaching, and neither does Grian, until the only thing that he sees is pitch black.

After some moments, it stops feeling like he's falling. He's just weightless and… there. There is nothing in this ‘there.’ He can't hear anything, feel anything, touch anything.

What was that? He still feels quite warm, but it's fleeting. He's getting colder by the second, but less quickly than the first time. It seems like past-Grian doesn't understand either, but he does flick his wings out to bring them around himself to try and conserve what heat he has left. But what he sees causes both past and present Grian to shout out loud.

His pure white wings are no longer pure white. Instead they are the color that Grian knows well. It's what he's been wearing since he molted overnight. Or at least, when he thought he molted overnight.

The all white feathers have changed into an ombre of rich red at the tips.

His past-self flaps them curiously, reaching a hand over and running it though as if to check whether it was real. It was weird watching his hand move though such a sensitive place, yet only feel a muffled shell of how it should feel.

He shrugged, pulling them around himself anyways. Somehow, it feels even darker than it did now that he was cocooned in his own wings…

All that he was left with was his own thoughts, and this time they were truly just his own. Now that it was quiet, and he was alone, he could actually start to process everything he just saw. Everything from just how corrupt the Council actually was, to StarVoid involvement, and the worst part of all, Scar being there.

Every time Scar talked about the disappearance of Boatem, he was so adamant that something else had happened. And now Grian knew why. He was there and he saw at least some of what went down, yet he told nobody. Not even Grian.

It felt like a bombshell revelation. It felt like years ago that Scar admitted that he couldn't, wouldn't, tell Grian the full story of what he knew. And this is why. He was told a completely different story of what happened to Boatem, and if it's true that they wiped Xisuma's memory, then the only one who knew what happened would be Scar. And nobody would've believed him with a story like that.

Scar was starting to question his own memory.

“And that's it for a while!” A way to chipper, yet somehow nervous sounding voice spoke right into his metaphorical ear.

“Ah! What was that for!” Grian shouted back. Now that there wasn't anything to see, Keralis sounded that much louder, especially after being stuck in his head thinking for a while.

”Ah, sorry sweetface! Didn't mean to startle ya! But, I’m looking at this memory in its fullness and it looks like it's just blackness for the next– let's say, twenty minutes!” He hums as though he was looking through something, but again, Grian still sees nothing.

“Can we like… skip through or?” Grian tries, as much as he likes getting traumatized twice, he would rather not have to relive his time spent alone in the void. Remembering it once, is enough.

”I’ve never tried! But let's see…” He sounds like he is moving something heavy, and after a small moment gives a little ‘a-ha!’ before Grian suddenly feels a little sick. There's no visual to show that they've moved forward, but he certainly feels like something happened.

”I moved us twenty minutes ahead! I think!” Keralis spoke. He sounded both excited and somber, certainly different than when they went into this. Grian thinks maybe Keralis expected them to be happy memories that he would unlock. He just hopes Keralis isn't too traumatized by what they both saw.

As it was, the air was still black and he was surrounded by profound nothingness. He had moved his wings out of the way at some point and seemed to find some sort of contentment in just floating around. Not being able to feel his feelings from back then, he really had no idea what was racing through his head right now. He doesn't know if he wants to know either…

It stayed dark, until there, out in the middle of nothing, was something. It was white, with a silver shine around it, and it was getting bigger. His past-self held an arm up, as if covering his eyes from such a bright shine in the middle of the black air.

It got bigger, and bigger, as if coming towards Grian, or maybe he was going towards it. Whichever was happening, it felt like it was pulling him in. Closer and closer until his whole vision was consumed by it, and between a blink and the next, he was back on the couch.

Chapter Text

Grian rapidly blinks his eyes as they adjust to the light; the harsh comparison from just being in the void to being on Xisuma's couch was causing pain. He noticed could feel things again, which was nice. Somebody was holding his hand, and his chest felt tight.

It was very quiet in the room as Grian tried to process what he just saw. Remembered? There was a lot to unpack in there and it was slowly crashing down on him.

After a moment the brightness wore off and he was finally able to open his eyes normally enough. He was looking down at his lap, remembering that he was still supposed to be dressed as Tycoon. He will admit it doesn't really look much like it anymore with the overcoat dress gone… his pants and shirt are a bit cut up too. Slowly, he lifted his head until he saw Keralis, who was still blinking like he wasn't quite recovered.

The Hero-in-training looked a little dazed and tired, eyes a little glassy. He was swaying in place slightly, raising his arms to swipe over his eyes. Grian thinks that maybe he saw a tear escape before he did. He feels like he should maybe also cry over what they both just saw, but for some reason he felt very little right now. Like he was still coming back. Grian just blinks some more.

Just past Keralis was Xisuma, sitting up proper and straight with a perfectly intact helmet on. Grian would be lying if he said he didn't feel just a slight pang of fear shoot through him when he saw him. He knows it wasn't fair, it wasn't his fault that he had to do what he did. Maybe the fear was out of what he could do more so than what he did do.

Does Xisuma even know? The question plays on Grians mind suddenly as the Hero puts a hand on Keralis shoulder, leaning over to talk quietly to him. Clearly, Xisuma had to not realize the role he played, right? The Hero was completely beside himself when he saw his brother there. He can't put together in his mind that those two are the same people.

He only knew StarVoid as some level-headed and even-tempered Hero. Sure, emotion didn't seem to be the Hero's thing, but what he just saw was such a huge display of emotion. It felt like trying to imagine a raging ocean fitting into a fish bowl. It just doesn't seem right to place that in Xisuma.

The man is so kind and gentle in everything he does, a real dad in the Hero Tower. Grian refuses to believe that he knew something happened, and hasn't done anything about it. He remembered hearing something about the Council erasing his memories. Maybe he was actually in the same boat as Grian.

Thinking about the memory sends pins down his hands, a shot of anxiety making him take a deep breath to push through. It was hard to process what he just went through, or went through again? Well, he supposed if he got spit out of the void without his memories, then he never really did have time to process.

His head was starting to hurt. He was certainly coming back to the ground, yet everything was starting to feel fuzzier. Like he was trying to float away, but something was keeping him there. He felt like he was both too full of information, yet forgetting everything.

He wanted both to go curl up in his wings in a dark corner and just cry until everything felt better, yet also to take flight. Go as high as he possibly could and just free fall, then do it over and over again. He's buzzing under his skin, and he doesn't know why.

Finally he turned to face the last person left in the room he hadn't looked to. Scar was behind him and to his side as he turned around. His face was set in an overly concerned gaze, his mouth in a hard line. Grian eyes raked over his features and followed down to his shoulder, then arm, then hand and saw it was indeed the hand that had been holding his the whole time. He gave it a light squeeze and retraced his eyes steps to look at his face again.

It all came rushing back. How much of unlocking these memories were as much for Scar as it was for him. He remembers him. He remembers Scar, the Tycoon Scar! (He knows it's not everything. There's missing pieces, but the biggest one has been cleared.) He knows what happened to Boatem and what happened to his family. They were the same people all along. They were always looking for the same people. And probably the most heartbreaking, Scar was looking for one more person that Grian was.

The man looked to be shaking a little, holding in his emotion just in case Grian needed something from him. Just in case they wouldn't have the time for it. The man waited years to find his people, and still he's willing to wait longer.

And just like that, Grians chest caved in with an ugly sob. All the emotions bubbling up from his chest. All the things he thinks he should have felt in the memory and all the things he's feeling now after it. The fog had cleared, and now the dam has burst.

“Oh, Scar.” He cried, throwing himself into Scars lap, absolutely burying himself into his chest with a painfully tight hug.

Scar reciprocated. Holding onto Grian just as tightly, if not more.

“Do you,” Scar took a soft breath in as he tried to speak, still somehow holding himself back. “D-do you remember?”

“Yes!” He cried back, bringing his wings around them as well. It was hard since Scar was leaning against the back of the couch. If he had it his birdy way then he would be completely encased. “Yes! Yes I remember everything!” A chirp escaped his throat, one of both great sadness and frustration as his wings were still trying to push themselves behind Scars back.

“Good. Good.” He leans over, somehow pulling Grian in closer while also allowing him to finally cocoon them both. Finally, Scar seems to give in a little. His breathing falters as he also hides in Grians neck.

There's a thousand thoughts rushing through Grians head as he cries. Every single one is some question that he's going to need to ask Scar at some point. They have a lot to talk about now, and Grian still has to find time to process the fact that he's older than he thought, and now he has five more years and then some memories to remember.

But for now they just hold one another how Grian wishes he would've years ago. Somehow hoping that he can fix the years of being an ass to Scar. He knows he wasn't a horrible person to him, but he could have been better. Has been better. Scar deserves better.

“You were there, Scar. Y– you were there!” He hiccups, not letting go.

“Wha–?” Scar goes to say, tears finally wetting his shoulder.

“Boatem. That night. You were th–there!” He chirps sadly. “Y–you never said you were there.” Scar seems to freeze almost, taking a long shaky breath in. He pulls back a little to look Grian in the eyes and he sees his face go through several different emotions at once. In the end Scars face landed on some sort of relief, like he was happy that Grian realized that he was there.

“Yes…I was but–! I thought it was a dream or something!” He cries, “Nobody believed me!”

“It's okay. It's okay I’m here, I’m back!” Grian tries to sooth. He can understand why Scar thought that, it was the easiest thing to think compared to what actually happened. He doesn't blame Scar at all.

“Sweetfaces,” Keralis’ voice breaks through the wall of feathers, making the two jump forgetting other people were there. They don't pull away, but Grian does put his wings down to look at the other two in the room. They had had their moment, and their tears had stopped falling a few minutes ago. Now it was just sniffles and squeezing hugs hoping that the other wouldn't disappear again.

He notices Xisumas again. The Hero sitting quietly behind Keralis, his hands drawn back into himself. Grian thinks he sees how they moved closer to each other while Scar and him were having their moment. Keralis leans just a little too close to make it not seem like they are at least somewhat close. Looks like he's not the only one to make friends after only a few weeks.

He feels something bubble in his chest as he looks at Xisuma. A feeling like he just needs to let him know that it's not his fault. That he understands what happens, and why everything turned out the way it did. So, he does.

“I don- we. We don't blame you for what happened.” He tried to look him in the eyes, just past Keralis’ shoulder. It's impossible to know if he is, the visor being too reflective, but he'd like to think that he is, what with the way the Hero freezes.

“Wha-” He goes to start, but Grian just has to interrupt him.

“It's okay, honest. None of Boatem blames you and I can guarantee that we all forgive you.” He breathes out with a sad coo. He hears Scar take a shuddering breath behind him, like he's started crying again.

“Well, I-,” He tilts his head, sounding confused. And Grian suddenly believes that maybe he did have his memory wiped as well. “I appreciate it, but you are worrying me with the implications here. I had nothing to do with the disappearance of Boatem. I led the search parties for the first few months and organized them too…” He turns to head to look past Grians shoulder, looking at Scar. He pauses before taking a shuddering breath as well.

“Are they okay?” He asks it so sincerely, laced with pain yet confusion and acceptance. Like no matter what Grian says, it won't be a good answer. And to some extent that's true. Grian goes to answer, but is beaten by Keralis first.

“Shashwham…” Keralis pauses, searching Xisuma's body language, since he couldn't see his face. Apparently he didn't find what he was looking for. “You were there.” Keralis shifts so that he can look at Xisuma. Grian watches as Keralis, whether he realizes it or not, tries in vain to see his face. Tries to do what he did to Grian and unconsciously read his mind.

Xisuma shakes his head almost vehemently.

“No, I wasn't. I would remember something like that, I’m sure. Scar and I have already talked about this before. I can't-”

“Xisuma.” Keralis stops him, taking one of his hands in both of his. “I saw you. I saw you there.” He says with finality.

Xisuma doesn't seem to know what to do with this information. He looks between all of them, like one of them will admit they were joking. But Grian is pretty sure this is the most serious he's ever been.

“So did I, three years ago.” Scar suddenly speaks up. His voice sounds a bit rough, probably from crying.

“I don't remember that… Scar-”

“I told you what happened, but you didn't believe me. You still don't, and Watcher is right there!” Scar spoke, a tremble in his voice. Grian feels his arms tighten around his waist as he speaks. He sounds upset, but not sad upset, mad upset. The change in tone in the room throws Grian off wildly.

“Scar, I didn't know what you were talking about. I’m sorry Scar, but I have no recollection of this happening!” He throws his hands out in a placating way, making Scar hug him tighter. Both Grian and Keralis just look at each other, confused at where Scar was trying to go with this.

“I thought I was going crazy.” He breathes, and he hears Xisuma's breath stutter. “Nobody thought Boatem was out there, but I knew you were there. Yet when I tried to tell you, you had no idea what I was talking about. You just told me to drop it over and over again.”

Now, thinking back, Grian isn't really sure when Scar had shown up to save him back then. Clearly he had only heard and seen enough to try and save Grian, or else he would've been there when his sister, Mumbo and Impulse were also thrown in. But that also means he would've missed the memo on the whole “wiping Xisuma's memory” business, depending on when he left after Grian fell.

“Scar, they wiped his memory too.” He speaks up, wrapping his hands around the arms on his waist.

“What?” Both Scar and Xisuma voiced at the same time. Keralis’ face morphed into a hesitant smile.

“They must have after they threw you in Grian. And after Scar escaped, however Mr. Luck did that.” He jokes lightly. Grian huffs a laugh for him, if not to be polite.

“When? Who?” Xisuma asks, sounding almost panicked. Grian knows how that feels, truly. Scar remains quiet, sinking back a little into the couch.

“Don't worry sweetface, I can unlock them for you too. Just like how you taught me! But I, uh– I need to see your pretty, pretty eyes.” Keralis offers, in lieu of an actual answer.

Xisuma physically recoils at the offer looking between all of them.

“I think you two should step into the guest room for a moment.” Keralis speaks evenly. He reaches over and takes Xisuma's hand again and pulls him closer to himself.

Grian can take a hint, remembering how his own subconscious chose to forget what Xisuma looks like. He peels Scar's hands off his middle and stands up off the couch. He's a bit wobbly at first, getting his land legs back as opposed to void legs. Scar stands silently by his side, his knees and back popping as he does.

Grian understands without asking, pushing his arms under Scars and around his waist. Scar doesn't mention it as they walk around the coffee table away from Xisuma and Keralis to get to the guest room.

Grian helps Scar over to the perfectly made bed in the center of the room, letting him sit down before closing the door they came from. He turned back to face Scar to see the man had taken his glasses off and was rubbing his eyes. He had thrown the glasses on the bedside table and was leaning over his lap.

Grian took the liberty to sit on the bed next to him, scooting closer and gently laying his head on his shoulder. There were plenty of things that needed to be said, and neither really knew where to start. It had been so long of searching for both of them, and they were always just right there the whole time. Grian felt stupid for never having seen it, or felt it.

It made sense now how he got so close to Scar so quickly. Gods, he was Watcher. Is Watcher? He doesn't feel like Watcher. He feels like Grian. Like CuteGuy.

“I was lucky.” Scar started, shattering the silence of the room. He puts his arms down on his lap, sighing. Grian scrunched his eyebrows, confused at what Scar meant. He was always Lucky, that is kinda his whole thing. Well, not that anybody but Grian knows that.

“Not like that Birdy,” He huffed a laugh. Grian huffs back, not liking that Scar had somehow read his mind. “I was lucky to get away. When you told me to not follow you guys, I was so mad at first. I went back into my room and just started pacing while cursing your name.” He gives a dry chuckle. He turns his head a bit to look at Grian, still leaning on him. His eyes are a dim orange, much different from the version of him in the memory with his burning, bright eyes.

“I decided to follow anyway, a few minutes after the elevator left. I had a vague idea where you were going, but lost you after you guys went into The Room. It's always so dark in there, so I focused my power and got lucky enough to find the door. I decided then to just keep the power on for a bit while trying to find you guys. A little couldn't hurt.” Suddenly, Scar flops back dislodging Grian. He chirps in annoyance at his pillow moving without him allowing it, but he ends up following him down anyways. He rests his head back on his shoulder as their legs fall over the side.

“By the time I actually found you guys it was too late, the portal was open and Pearl, Mumbo and Impulse had already been tossed in. Just as they threw Evil Ex in. I missed whatever you guys had talked about, and I blacked out everything except that damned portal and guy holding you over it. I fired before I knew what I was really looking at.” Grian feels his throat start to hurt with tears. He reaches down and grabs Scar's hand, for comforting Scar or himself he doesn't know.

“I was still too late, I grabbed you too late. Slipped right out of my hand, but not before I felt something I'll never be able to understand.” Scar turned and freed his hand from Grians so he could hover over him as he spoke. “When I grabbed your hand I had the biggest power surge of my life. I felt powerful, and. And– I don't know!” He said to Grian, looking decimated. His other hand was waving in the air as he spoke, like he was trying to convince Grian of whatever he was talking about.

He didn't need to, because Grian knew exactly the moment he was talking about. Now that he was out of the memory, everything came back just a bit sharper. Like his brain actually realized that he lived though that, and not just watched it.

It was muted, since it was just a memory, but he certainly remembers the ‘too full’ feeling. The being ‘too big’ for his skin, the feeling of pushing back and something happening to his wings. (When he was in the void he remembers being confused at why the color had changed, but also thinking he had worse things to deal with than his feathers being different.)

Now he feels like that moment had much more significance than he realized.

“Whatever you did gave me a huge boost, and I was able to get out with any of them even remembering that I was there. After… After I dropped you I knew I needed to get out, so I just ran. I wanted to help Xisuma, but he was surrounded and no matter how lucky I was in that moment, there's no way we both would be that lucky. So I went back to my room and waited for them to come for me, but they never did.” As Grian looked up at him he couldn't help but watch as the tears gathered in his eyes.

“You didn't drop me, Scar. I was pushed, and not by you. You did what you could and I appreciate you for it. You did nothing wrong and you were incredibly brave for trying to catch me in the first place!” Grian holds onto that instead of talking about the other part. He doesn't know how to talk about whatever the boost was, because he doesn't even know. So, he smiled up at Scar, hoping to at least give him some sort of comfort about that.

“You're different than you used to be.” Scar all but whispers. The tears threaten to fall, but Grian rushes up and wipes them away before they do.

“Well, people change. You're different than I remember you too. I was an ass to you, and I don't even think you knew it.” Grian tries to laugh, but it comes out just sad. Scar does laugh a little though, finally smiling.

“Oh I knew, I just didn't know how to prove myself so I just let my actions speak for themself. I knew one day you'd all trust me.” Reaching his other hand around, he starts to mess with Grians feathers. Before, he would've been upset at him for not asking first, like a flash a memory arises where he gave Scar permission to touch them if he notices an issue years ago.

And then it's gone but still there. Like a normal memory, it comes to him when he thinks about it, but otherwise not at the forefront. He feels Scar smooth out a feather he didn't even know was bothering him, and another memory surfaces of a similar thing happening a while ago during a battle. Then, Grian remembers being upset. Now he finds it a bit endearing. His past self was really a pendulum of emotion when it came to how he treated Scar…

Oh, so that’s how this will work. Whenever something is relevant, or when he needs to, he will just remember something he's already been through. Interesting. He just quietly coos as Scar continues to smooths out some rouge feathers.

“I missed you,” Grian says without thinking first. “Even without realizing it. I missed you.” He breathes. Scar doesn't stop running through his wings, but they do stutter for a moment. “Memories keep popping up when I think, you are in a lot of them…”

“I guess it wasn't actually false hope, huh.” He says back, confusing Grian for just a moment at the switch of topic. That is until he remembers the conversation he had with Scar that felt like it was years ago. Suddenly Grian starts laughing.

“I told you to hope that I was still out there, when I was right in front of you!” He laughs until Scar joins him. “You cried! And I was right there!”

“How was I supposed to know that? You didn't exactly look and act like the Grian I knew!” He giggles, sitting up fully. Grian follows him, sitting shoulder to shoulder as they giggle with each other.

Grian missed this. And he didn't even know how to until this moment. Both him and Scar have changed a lot, but they are still here together. And that's all they need.

A knock on the door has them putting a pause on the giggle fit. Keralis sticks his mousey brown head through the crack in the door, giving the two of them a tired smile. Grian suddenly feels bad for the ex-vigilante. He had no clue when he met the man and his partner at the Hero tryouts that he would become so involved in his story. The man is too nice for his own good to be willing to help them all out. Maybe he truly is a Hero.

“He um. He remembers now and is okay to talk to you pretties if you want.” If Grian looked any harder he might notice how Keralis’ eyes look a little red. But he chooses not to.

Instead he stands up, helping Scar do the same, and they make their way back to the couch. Xisuma has his helmet back on, but he still has his face in his hands. He bends over his legs and his shoulders are shaking in a way Grian can't tell whether he's crying, or mad. In this situation it could be either really.

Grian leads them to the couch, but just before he's about to sit down, Xisuma abruptly stands up. Before either Scar or Grian can process, he moves across Grian and pulls Scar into his chest with an all encompassing hug. Grian takes his seat and lets them have this moment.

“I’m so sorry. I didn– I should've known! Helped you! Scar–” He can barely keep his thoughts straight on what he wants to tell Scar, and that's fair in Grians opinion. He's ineloquent in a way Grian has never seen him be before, and his hands are shaking where he hugged Scar. He would say that a lot of people are victims here, but Xisuma had a very unique tragedy happen that none of them can really fix.

Scar just reaches up and hugs him even tighter, burying his face in Xisuma's armored neck. He takes a shuddering breath.

“You have no reason to be sorry. It wasn't your fault. I didn't know they took your memory, so I’m sorry for pushing it..” Scar says and Xisuma just shakes his head. He pulls back, holding onto Scars shoulders before reaching a hand up to his visor and hesitating. Grian is confused, looking at Scar who seems just as confused. But Xisuma's pause doesn't last long before he flips up the visor while looking directly at Scar. Everyone in the room takes a gasp.

But none as much as Scar. From where Grian was sitting, he couldn't see Xisuma's face unless he moved, but he stayed planted. But Scar was looking directly at him. Grian heard his breathing pause and saw his eyes widen as he looked at him.

“After they disappeared, I vowed to protect you and be there for you as much as I could. But now I know that I was a major part of what went down. I’m sorry for any stress I caused you after what happened. You aren't crazy Scar, and I’m sorry , to make you think so.” He speaks and it's so much clearer without the visor muffling him. It's a richer timbre, and softer than what Grian was expecting.

He goes back to hugging the man, Grian catching sight of a few stray tears falling down Scars face. He forgot his sunglasses in the guest room.

“I never actually blamed you,” Scar started, voice oddly solemn and earnest. “I never did. I– I just… I was mad at the world I guess. It never wavered my trust in you, just made me confused, I guess.” Scar closed his eyes and hugged him tighter for a few moments before letting go. He sniffles, and uses his sleeve to wipe his tears and face. Xisuma goes and does the same, but after he closes his mask again.

“We will get them back. All of them.” Scar says with conviction, looking up at Xisuma. His eyes flash a brighter orange for a second before calming down. Xisuma just sighs for a moment, before moving down and taking a seat where he was before. Keralis was already there, he must have watched the whole thing silently.

Scar sat down next to Grian again, sitting as close as he could without being in his lap. Grian scoffed good naturedly and took his hand.

“About that, I– I just.” He starts and stops for a moment, looking at Keralis. The Hero-to-be gives him a small smile and a nod. Xisuma takes a deep breath before starting again. “Let me explain some things…” Keralis leans over onto his shoulder.

“I don't know how to use my power.” Xisuma admits, Grian knew that, but it seems Scar did not. “They made me use it by accident, before that moment the most I did was play with it as a child. Void Walkers usually do one of two things with their abilities, the first being learning to control it from a very young age. Very strict, regimented practice. It's a powerful power that needs to be contained and controlled if someone wants to use it regularly.” He speaks with urgency, like he needs them to understand what he's talking about to explain himself.

“The other being to leave it alone. It's already a passive power, it's why most of us wear a suit. So if I just leave it alone then nothing will happen. Ex,” He hesitated to say the name. “And I didn't have a great childhood, so neither of us practiced very well. He kept with it more than I did, I chose to leave it alone when I found out D.U.S.T. was easier. I–” He paused, taking a deep breath. “I want to help, but I don't know how…” He finishes, shaking his head.

Keralis reaches out and takes his hand, running his other hand over the top.

“You don't need to know what you're doing to help us. You saw what the Council was doing, did, and what they are going to do. If we want a chance at taking them down we need to get Boatem and Ex back.” Scar says back softly.

“Mumbo was the only one to know the antidote…” Grian voiced, another memory surfacing. He saw everyone laughing as Mumbo rambled about what was needed to make the antidote. Nobody understood but him, but they were content to listen. He can't recall any of the man's words, just how he said them with a smile.

“Before I– remembered… what happened, I forgot I even had a power that strong. I– Listen. We were taught about the void when we were little, how powerful it can be. If you are there when you shouldn't be it can just, like, take things from you.” He sighs.

“‘Take things’?” Scar questions, tilting his head. Xisuma says it in a grim manner, but it's too vague to make Grian and Scar understand why.

“People aren't supposed to be there,” He starts to clarify, “VoidWalkers can't even be there. We are just able to bend it into what we want. Portals, transport, communication and in rare cases physical objects made of void itself. But nobody should spend time there consumed.” He tries to explain, but even he seems to realize it's not making a lot of sense still.

“I– remember… that after Scar left they had said something about being glad they didn't have to take Grians memory, or any of Boatems. That I did a good thing now that they are gone.”

“But, my memory was blocked?” Grian asks, possibly understanding where it was going.

“You were there for very little time. I suspect the void was about to start taking the memories that meant most to you, but you got spit out right as it started. That ended up with–” Xisuma was cut off by a harsh sounding knock on his door. It made them all jump before the room went silent as they shared glances.

Grian felt his heart rate take a dangerous shift upwards. He wanted Xisuma to finish what he was saying, just so he knew what was going on in his head. But the only person who would dare to knock on Xisuma's door like that was already in the room, Keralis. So whoever was on the other side, did not sound nice.

Xisuma got up first, smoothing his hands down his lap as if there was anything to wipe away. Grian made to stand up as well, but Scar reached out and grabbed his hand. When he looked over, Scar just shook his head silently. His eyes shone a brighter orange and then Grian understood.

They watched as Xisuma tiptoed to his door, swift but smooth, like he was on a stealth mission. He leaned his head over to look through the peephole but jumped back when another round of banging started up. Grian was starting to get a bit of deja vu from the other day when he was so rudely woken by a similar sounding knock.

Xisuma leaned back over after it stopped and they all heard him take a gasp in before turning to face them. Grian really couldn't tell what his face looked like, but judging by the fact Keralis stood up with a look of fear on his face, whoever was behind the door was really not someone that they wanted to see.

Finally both Scar and Grian decide it's time to actually stand as Keralis does. Scar leans over the coffee table, grabbing a napkin and a pen before writing something down. He's confused at first, but lets him do whatever he's doing. When he stands back up he keeps it balled up in one hand while reaching to Grian with his other. They hold each other's hand while Xisuma quickly walks back to them crowding in close.

“It's the Council.” He breathes, whispering. Scar lets out a light curse as Grian just feels more tired. They should've known that was coming, nothing is ever that easy. “I don't know how they found you here, but you guys need to go.” He starts to push them closer to the balcony.

“They have eyes everywhere…” Grian says, pushing the curtains back and sliding the door open. The pounding on the door is near constant now. He wouldn't be surprised if they knock it down.

“I’ll cover for you guys, but you need to get somewhere safe. Stay low profile while this goes on, I’ll find a way to talk to you later.” He hastily pushed them more past the door.

“Here, hide this. Go here when you can, and send any Heros you know are safe here too.” Scar says, perfectly hard. He's in Hero mode right now, and it's very weird to see him talk like that without his glasses on. The color wavers slightly as he speaks, as if some of the words require more luck to get out. Hoping to imbue them with Luck as he speaks them into existence.

He hands the balled up napkin to Keralis, who shoves it in his pocket before taking his shirt off, much to Grian and Scars confusion. He starts to undo his belt as he runs back into the flat, turning the light off as he goes. Xisuma sighs as he follows Keralis’ lead, mumbling something like “Plan S-X-E it is…” He shuts the door behind him and Grian tries not to think about whatever plan that was.

He turns around and hops up on the railing, he jumps off quickly letting the air rush past his face. He flares out his wings much sooner than he would like, but he needs to help Scar down as well. He soars up back to the balcony where Scar has his hands white knuckle gripping the railing.
His jaw is clenched tightly while he is pointedly looking everywhere but down. He watches his eyes move uncovered until finally they land on Grian.

“Scar, jump.” Grian says, and for the first time he says it with no sass in his voice. They don't have time to make fun of Scars fear of heights right now, sadly.

Still, Scar gives him a face full of fear and a slight shake of his head. But he too knows that they don't really have the time to hesitate this much. So he goes to put one leg over the railing, shaking slightly. He makes it over and Grian decides today is that day to show the man some mercy.

He flies closer, turning his back to the Hero with a flap of his wings. This would be the safest way to travel with someone for a longer distance. It's hard on his wings, but overall the best. Scar hesitantly puts his arms around his neck but keeps his feet on the rails like he doesn't want to step off. Well, too bad. They have places to be. So as Scar hides his face in Grians neck, he flaps back lifting his feet from the balcony. Scar yelps in his ear as they lose a little altitude, but Grian manages to get his bearings back.

He feels the wind ruffle his feathers as he changes direction, he angels up and then pushes. They need to get as far as they can as quickly as they can, and the higher they get the harder it will be for anyone to follow them if they get seen.

He knows that at some point they have to head over to Docs but he decides the best thing to do is to fly a few miles out from the Hero Tower, just in case anyone that was banging on Xisuma's door saw them. Then after confirming that they weren't being followed, he would turn back around and make their way over to the villain's lab to reconvene.

He looks down to try and get a sense of some landmarks. He had flown this high up over the city many times during his stint as a vigilante, so he knew of the places around that were recognizable. Like Sahara Park, which is the only place in the entire city where there were no lights so it's very easy to pick out from the height they are at.

There's also a few tall skyscrapers that are easy to recognize, especially the tallest tower in the entire city. Grian wasn't too sure what the building was for, some sort of office job maybe. But Everyone knew that it was always a major target for villains to try and over take due to its size. And now it has another memory attached to it now: where Grian and HotGuy met the night before the audition.

Grian shakes his head, bringing himself back to the present. Both sadly and not, he realizes it's a very clear night. No clouds in the sky makes for a great view, but poor cover. They drifted higher and higher and the air got colder and colder.

Any other time, Grian would enjoy this flight. It was a beautiful night, the air crisp and cold and the wind flying past his feathers and hair. The city view below was gorgeous as well, the lights and tall buildings reaching into the sky. They were nowhere as tall as they needed to be to reach Grian though. And that's usually what made flying even better for Grian, he was always completely alone.

The extra weight on his back was throwing him off a little, having to compensate by thrusting his wings down harder. By doing that though it jostles Scar a little more, prompting him to hold on tighter. It makes Grian let out a choked chirp, sound being lost to the wind. He feels bad, but at this rate Scar might end up choking him for real if he holds on any tighter. So he raises his arms to hold onto Scar hands, prying them away from his throat while also providing some form of comfort.

He could tell the man was trembling a bit, but he couldn't tell whether it was from the cool air or because he was scared. He was willing to bet it might be a bit of both.

Grian switched to gliding once he reached the peak height where he knew it was safe. Angling his wings so that they wouldn't go down too fast, but at least this way it was easier to talk. The wind swishing past their ears calming down to a dull woosh. Plus, it gave Grians wings a break.

He tried not to think of the last time he flew with Scar. His wings felt just a bit more sore than they should carrying this much weight, he pretends it's just because he hasn't trained enough recently.

“Scar, we need a place to go. Can't fly forever.” Grian broke the self-imposed silence. He felt Scar jump a little from his back. The man did not move his face out of Grians neck, but still tried to speak anyways. It came out in a garbled mess that had Grian pulling a nonplussed face that nobody could see.

“I promise you are safe Scar, I can't hear you when you speak…” He tries to speak softly since he does feel for the scared Hero. But also, like he said, he can't fly forever.

Slowly Scar slid his face until his chin was hooked over Grians shoulder. Grian couldn't turn to look, but he was sure that Scars eyes were still closed. He almost wanted to huff a laugh, but decided against it.

“We should head to Docs first,” saying what Grian already knew. “See if he's still there. If not, then we go to the address that they gave us if we got in trouble.” He said, oddly calm. There was still an almost imperceivable quiver in his voice as he spoke though. Grian almost forgot about the other address they were given, that must've been what Scar gave Keralis as well.

“We are a few miles out from Doc's place, we’ll have to double back.” Grian explained, slowly, starting to glide down over where he knew Doc's lab was. He glided around the tallest building, knowing that they were back tracking closer to the Hero Tower. He felt Scar nod his head on his shoulder, Grian noticing that he didn't move his head back into hiding.

He wanted to enjoy the view and peace while he could. He could see everything from up here, from the Hero Tower to his old apartment to Princesses Panties. It had been too long since he was able to fly this high. Even with Scar on his back he felt way more at peace up here. It was a view he would never tire of, and even with the looming threat of kinda being on the run, his head feels clearer up here.

There's the flashing lights of parties that Grian would typically patrol around. The very faint sounds of the honking horns of cars upset those around them. The flashes of color from the LED lights that people have strung up in their apartments.

Flying made him feel like he could breathe. He wishes Scar felt the same.

“Scar, the city looks beautiful up here.” He said, hopeful. The man on his back immediately shook his head, hair tickling Grians ear.

“I'm sure. Totally not very far away and scary!” He laughed back, adjusting himself to hold on tighter. “No thanks, land please.” Scar said it sounding overly polite, it made Grian finally huff a laugh.

“I promise, open your eyes, Scar.” He angled down a bit more, going a little faster down but not fast enough to be scary. He honestly expected Scar to tell him to fuck off and hide his face again.

Instead though, after a moment he heard Scar gasp. He held on impossibly tighter, but lifted his head a pinch more off Grians shoulder. He couldn't help but smile as the man tilted his head around with what Grian could only assume was bright eyes.

He turned his wings to the side, shifting as he descended so Scar could have a look at every possible angle. It was sad that it was dark out, Grians favorite view of the city was during the day when he could see the park and river. But at night with all the lights was a very close second place.

As they got closer and closer to the ground, Scar laid his head back down. Deciding that certain heights he could deal with, others he couldn't. And that was fine, but Grian was glad that Scar at least saw a glimpse of what he did while flying.

It was a short minute more until they reached the block that Doc's lab was supposed to be on, and unfortunately his brilliant view was suddenly not so perfect.

“Shit!” Grian spoke, flexing his wings in preparation to move quickly. He was glad Scar hid his face now because Grian had to quickly bank left to get out of view. Scar squeaked as he did, not expecting the sharp movement. To be fair, neither was Grian. “Sorry Scar.” He said, knowing that Scar probably couldn't hear him, but it's the thought that counts. Probably.

He quickly had them disappear from the view of Doc's building, which was completely surrounded by police cars. How he didn't see their lights from above, Grian doesn't know. He was a little distracted, but missing twenty cop cars was a bit much.

He circled around the building across the street before soaring up to the roof from behind. He landed a bit hard on the gravel roof, but at least he was on his feet. He felt Scars feet hit the ground first, him being taller, but he didn't let go until Grian unflexed his wings. Slowly, he removed his hands and stumbled around to Grians side.

When he pitched a bit to the side, Grians hand shot out to make sure he didn't fall over. He laughed quietly, pulling Scar back straight as the man wobbled slightly. Poor guy didn't have his land legs back.

Scar batted Grians hand away, squinting his eyes he huffed while crossing his arms. Grian just rolled his eyes and crouched low. He motioned for Scar to do the same, which he followed without complaint, but titled his head in confusion.

Slowly Grian led them to the edge, looking over the side at the sea of police cars and Heros. They swarmed Doc's house and alleyway, coming in and out of the door. If he had to guess he would say they didn't find anything. Or at least they didn't find Doc. Because if they had, then there would be a whole villain fight going on right now as Doc would not just let himself (or any of his team) just be captured.

That led Grian to believe though that maybe they were searching for something else, since they were still around.

“Well hello.” A mellow voice spoke from behind them. Grian immediately whipped around reaching for the knife at his thigh, only for his hand to grasp nothing. Scar had done much the same, not even bothering to reach for the nonexistent bow around his shoulders. Instead he lowered himself into a fighting stance with his fists raised, ready to throw a punch.

Grian went to do the same, but ended up dropping them with a sigh. There in front of them was a nonchalant looking Etho, standing with swagger, one hand on his hip as he raised his other to inspect his nails. His white hair was pulled up in a high pony and his face mostly hidden under the black mask. Grian couldn't say for certain, but if he had to guess he would say that the hit-man for hire was definitely smiling at them.

“I wouldn't go in there if I were you.” He says with snark, making Grian roll his eyes. He watched as the hitman lowered his hand to finally look at them. His eyes lingered on Grian for a moment, most likely taking in his rumpled state. He's pretty sure there's still blood in his wings too, he can feel it.

When his eyes went to Scar, he started at his shoes, seeing how messed up he looked as well. But surprisingly, when they got to Scars face Grian saw the almost imperceivable gasp before averting his eyes.

Oh, so even Etho has some morals about Hero identities. Scar didn't even seem to notice.

“Didn't plan on it Mr. Assassin.” Scar huffs, taking a step away from the ledge toward Etho. Grian notices how he places himself subtly between the two. Idiot.

“Calm down HotGuy, I’m still on your side.” Something flashes in Ethos' eyes, but Grian chooses to ignore it. The assassin starts to pat his clothes, starting with his pants pockets then going to his coat and shirts.

“It sounds like you're being co-conde–scending, but that's just my name…” Scar huffed, crossing his arms and making Grian snort a laugh. He also steps away from the ledge, understanding that there was no way they would be going in there any time soon.

“You're pretty funny when you aren't being an uptight Hero.” Etho laughed, which in turn made Grian laugh. Scar, in fact, did not laugh, but instead pout. They had to be careful not to be too loud, but they were pretty high up so he wasn't too worried about having a conversation here.

“Are you here to help us out?” Grian asked, taking the spot at Scars side. He loved their conversations, but right now he was very tired and just wanted to get this over with.

“Straight to business? Being a Hero changes you that much?” Etho sighs, suddenly letting out a little ‘aha!’ as he reaches into his inside breast pocket and pulls out a pair of what looks to be aviator glasses. With his eyes still cast down he offers them over to Scar, surprising them both.

“Don't act so surprised, I’m almost always covered head to toe.” Etho jokes, wiggling the glasses in front of Scars face.

Grian looks at Scars face, the Hero looking almost confused or torn. He will admit, he too is a little shocked that the Etho, is offering the number one Hero some sunglasses for identities sake. Sure, they were friendly, closer to coworkers than friends, but still. This is a very kind gesture coming from a hitman.

Slowly, Scar reaches up and takes the glasses with a soft thanks. He opens them up and holds them up to the moonlight, looking through the lenses to make sure they aren't altered. It makes Grian laugh, as well as Etho.

“They are wire frames, a bit hard to tamper with. I swear they are clean, HotGuy. ” That time Grian definitely heard the snark when Etho said his name.

Scar puts them on and they are certainly a different look than what Grian is used to seeing him in. They also aren't completely opaque. When Grian looks at his eyes he can see the glowing ring of his irises. But it's better than nothing he supposed.

“Thanks…” Scar says louder, Etho nodding in acknowledgment. Hes now actually looking up at Scars face

“Anyways! Straight to business CuteGuy, don't even want to catch up?” Etho says, giving Grians name the same lightly condescending treatment.

Grian isn't actually upset, but he chirps in annoyance anyways. It makes Etho pause, actually. The man's head whips his way with a confused tilt. Grian watched as he squinted his eyes as if trying to decipher something, making him pull his wings in closer on habit. Ethos eyes jump to the movement, his eyes softening ever so slightly before moving on.

A memory comes to mind unbidden of Grian himself signing the Hybrid Acceptance Act. He remembers being so proud of it; being one of the first things he did… that was not nearly as recent as he thought it was signed. Oh gods when he has time to think about all of this, he's going to be a mess.

“Yeah.” Etho moves on before Grian can think about it any harder. “I said I’m a man of my word, so I’m here to let you know, don't go in there. S’not safe.” Grian felt like his jaw dropped a little as he gave Etho the most incredulous face possible. He can only assume Scar thinks the same thing, the Hero turning to look down at Grian as if he is the one responsible for the way Etho just is.

Then suddenly the black-clad man starts laughing again. He laughs in a series of high rasps as he leans back holding his stomach.

“Oh man you guys are so easy to make fun of, you should've seen the looks on your faces!” He laughs, wiping a tear from his eye. If Grian wasn't so tired, and maybe less confused, maybe he would've fought it more. But as it stands he is so confused.

“I'm here to escort you to the location 77 gave you before you left.” For a moment, Grian forgot that they were technically in public, so they should be using their Hero or villain names. “You guys were supposed to be back a while ago, so we assumed you were compromised. And then we got raided as well. Those cute little bracelets you wear? Nothing more than a tracker with some adrenalin in it, 77 and I messed around with them.” Grian can't say that he's particularly surprised, but he does feel maybe a little bit of disappointment. Heroes wore those thinking they would help, and probably died because of it.

A memory flashes through of Mumbo talking animatedly about his new prototype bracelet that would help other Heros. Now all that was left of that was a bastardized attempt at the idea.

“77 had me stay here unless you guys showed up. And looky here.” He finishes the story with shitty jazz hands, only doing it for a few seconds before putting his hands back into his jacket pockets. It made Scar snort though.

“Are you trying to say that we couldn't protect ourselves?” Grian says instead, pretending to be annoyed. He takes Scars arm, hugging it close and pulling him over to Etho. The anti-Hero gets the hint, leading them over the fire stairs behind the building. Etho takes the step down first, and Grian follows.

They are rusted to all hell, barely hanging in on in a way that definitely isn't up to fire code. But it holds all three of them with minimal groaning, so they swiftly descend. (Grian knows he could fly. It would be easy to just glide down and catch himself at the bottom. But he would much rather not be alone while the streets are swarming with Heros possibly looking for them.)

“Well I never said that but. You two look like you've had a long day, maybe you could use the extra help.” He says this with a cheeky sound, but Grian can hear the bits of truth. They must certainly look like a pair; their hair and clothes torn up, shadows under their eyes and HotGuy wasn't even wearing the right glasses.

“Eh, we've been through worse.” Grian says, following a line of memories about worse situations he was in as a Hero. There were a few captures in there, and few very poor villain fights. They make him shiver, going a little nauseous seeing what he's been through. He tries his best to put them to the side and he climbs down the stairs, finally dropping the last way onto the concrete in a dark alleyway.

Etho doesn't remark, just lifts his hood as he makes his way down the dingy alley with Grian and Scar following along. He doesn't really know where they are going, but he trusts Etho. Scar does know where they are going as well so if there was an issue, then he would no. So Grian just follows. Follows and thinks.

It's been one hell of a day. First they go talk to Doc, then go on a mission for the villain, get captured and severely injured, has a whole revelation with Scar, escapes, gets captured by StarVoid (basically), healed and then another revelation, and now they are on their way to meet with Doc again. He did have his nonconsensual nap earlier in the day, but he was still tired. A type of tiredness that was down to his bones and most likely from the healing earlier.

He couldn't afford to be too tired though. They apparently are now on the run from the Council now. They want to find Grian and Scar for what Grian can only assume is to finish the job. They must've known from the beginning, the Council. Inviting him to the audition, hoping it would kill him. Then going on patrol with HotGuy, then on the mission, then even going so far as to hire a hitman. Grian feels like maybe he should be proud of himself for surviving this long.

He also feels a little sick, now realizing what was happening from the beginning.

Scar must notice how quiet he is, pumping his shoulder with his and gaining his attention. Grian looks up seeing Scars bright orange eyes. That somehow makes him even more sad. Memories flash before his eyes of a younger Scar, honey brown eyes and no stress lines on his forehead.

He remembers when Scar had told them about his power, nervous and voice shaking a little. Of course they all supported him and understood why he never told them. They also vowed to never make him use the power.

Look at Scar now…

Scar didn't speak, even as tears welled up in Grians eyes. Instead, he just took his hand as they walked. They had just turned onto an actual street, the warm yellowish orange light illuminating them all. Grian just gripped his hand tighter, turning his head away to look at anything else.

He brought up his other shoulder to wipe at his eyes before they had the chance to fall. He decided to focus on how different the city looked walking on the ground compared to twenty minutes ago when they were in the sky. He will admit there are some beautiful details here that get lost while up so high.

Details like the carving on the bricks on the building or some of the cheeky graffiti yet to be cleaned up. There's a charm down here like there's a charm up there. Both are pretty at night though.

Nobody is out this late. Nobody that doesn't need to be at least, especially in this part of the city. They haven't run into anybody yet, the roads and sidewalks staying completely clear as they walk. Grian wonders if Scar had anything to do with that.

And that's another thing. Luck. How was he able to just get popped out of the void like that? To his knowledge nobody else got kicked out like he did. He wasn't there for long before the portal opened, maybe Xisuma's brother? No, that didn't make sense be cause then why didn't he escape as well. Plus, the villain didn't look to be in the best shape when they threw him in…

Xisuma would've told him if he was the one who did it…but that also implies that he didn't let the rest of Boatem or his brother out. And he would've had to do it before his memory got wiped.

He goes through the events of what transpired again, taking a deep, calculated breath as he does. It's not really something he likes thinking about, but this feels important. It feels like this is something he should know, but no memory is popping up. If it was a memory that was blocked, Keralis would've told him.

He remembers being pushed, suddenly remembering the feeling along with it. The fear, the acceptance, and then renewed fear upon seeing that Scar was there. How much he wished and begged the universe to somehow get Scar out of here. Wished for the Luck the man possessed to make everything go back to the way it was.

Then the rush of warmth where they were connected spread down to his feet and wings. He remembers now feeling something settle in his chest, pushing against something that wasn't even there. It almost hurt and it definitely felt too big, and then his wings suddenly felt cooler; lighter. Like something was wiped away, or the feeling of rightness, right before Scar lost his grip.

What was that feeling? It makes no sense…

“Sc– HotGuy,” He breaks the precious silence. While he knows that he already blew Scars cover to Etho back in the alley a while ago, he still feels like he shouldn't speak it out in public. It gets his attention well enough with the Hero looking over with an interested look. Grian continues speaking quietly, knowing Etho can still hear them but at least setting the idea that he shouldn't be.

“How does your power work?” He asks, knowing the answer mostly. But last time they talked about it, it was a sore subject. Maybe there were some details he would talk about this time.

“You know what I know, Birdy.” Scar sighs before looking back ahead, subtly trying to slow them down a little to get further from Etho. He doesn't seem to notice as he continues to walk close to the buildings, mostly out of the light.

“I do, but can you transfer it or like…leave residual Luck around?” Scar laughs when he finishes his question, making Grians ears twinge pink.

“Do you think I’m like a witch? No, I cannot hex someone with Luck G.” He giggled making Grian huff.

“No, ass, just wondering if you knew your limits. Can you make someone else Lucky by, like, touching them or something?” He fluffs his wings as he speaks, using his other hand in a way that feels distinctly like something Scar would do.

“Thinking about how you got out of the void?” He asks freaking Grian out a little. How did he– “I've been thinking about that too, actually.” He hums, uncharacteristically somber. Grian looked over his face as he spoke, seeing that Scar too looks incredibly tired. He recalls how Scar was awake in their cell before he was. Even while the glasses were only vaguely transparent, he could still make out the dark bags under his eyes.

“I know I can't make someone else Lucky G, if so, then a lot of people would be a lot more Lucky in this world. It always works in my favor, which is why it's a selfish power. I don't know what happened that night with Boatem, but whatever it was I felt it too.” Etho turned down another alleyway, Scar and Grian following at a distance behind. “I was oddly warm when I touched you. And then it felt a little like I was being drained before a surge of power came over me. It's why I was able to escape, but I don't know where it came from… But I already told you that.”

Grian listened as he spoke, trying to equate what Scar felt to what he did. So, basically, while Scar felt like he was being drained Grian felt like he was being overflowed. Something was both adding up, and tipping his viewpoint upside down.

He felt his mouth go a bit dry at the puzzle pieces falling into place in his head. Trying to search his missing memories and coming up empty handed. Nowhere does he remember having a power, but…

Then, a memory surfaced that he never actually lost, but he dismissed on account of him thinking Keralis was mistaken. But after everything that has happened he suddenly thinks that Keralis rarely is.

“Do…Do you think maybe it was me?” He asks, voice small and barely audible. Scars face didn't change, nor did he even look at Grian. He rolled his jaw, thinking, before opening his mouth.

“Let's talk about this later…” He finally looked at Grian, eyes barely visible yet was flicking to the place they were, before settling on Etho. Grian admits, he's disappointed. Disappointed that Scar doesn't trust his friend, but he begrudgingly understands not trusting the public. Maybe that wouldn't be a good topic of conversation for some paparazzi to overhear. Sure, they think they are alone, but between being the talk of the town and the Council, are they ever truly?

Grian nods with a slight frown, he didn't really know if they would have time. It really feels like something bigger is coming and he's not sure he's ready for it. Right now all he wants it's a nice bed and a dark, quiet room. He leans a little closer to Scar, letting his head fall onto his shoulder as they walk. It's not comfortable at all, but it lets him rest his eyes as they walk with the trust that Scar won't lead him astray.

Unfortunately, they come to a stop all too soon. Opening his eyes he sees that they are in some alley just outside the richer district of the city. Honestly for the best since Heros don't really come out this far, then again if they are looking for them then maybe they might look through the whole city… He's not sure how the Hero Association takes missing persons cases. Scar probably would though.

Etho had stopped them in front of a rusted green door covered in moss. Much like Docs, it's unassuming. Even has an awning above with an old logo for some restaurant that must've used this building before. There's no windows though, and there are several more doors lining the alleyway that look much the same. Grian wonders how Etho knew that this door is specifically the one. Has he been here before?

Before he can open his mouth to ask, Etho steps up and knocks loudly four times on the door, before lightly knocking twice more. Grian huffs looking at Scar who has a small smile on his face. Not a very secure secret knock, they both know.

Grian hears a deadbolt turn, unlocking the door with a loud click sound. Etho doesn't even pause before throwing the door open and ushering the two inside quickly. He follows behind them, shutting the door.

He closes them into darkness, completely pitch black and Grian suddenly wonders if they just walked into a trap. Etho is a man of his word, but if somehow just the right price was offered, then maybe he could be swayed.

He dropped Scars hand, lowering himself into a fighting stance just in case. Finally the lights were flipped on by Etho himself, the assassin squinting like Grian as they adjusted to the brightness. So maybe Etho didn't trap them…

From what he could see, they were in a greenhouse type room. A lot of green, as well as plants covering every surface that he could see. He would've looked around more until a voice he didn't recognize started to speak, drawing his eyes to the center of the room.

“‘Ello! Nice to ‘ave ya!” She spoke, her cropped brown hair framing her round face. She was smiling brightly with a dangerous look in her eye. She almost looked unhinged.

“The Heros are here, oh good…” The taller person at her side spoke in a disinterested tone. Their mechanical eye scanning them both in a way Grain couldn't deny was probably an actual scan. They had a short beard and small scowl as they looked at Scar specifically.

And to be honest, Grian just let them look at them however they wanted. Because standing in front of them in a secure and enclosed space, was the number two (in Grians opinion) villains GiGi and Vault.

Chapter Text

The night before is when they had exchanged nervous pleasantries with GiGi and Vault until Doc had all but ran into the room. He apologized for his tardiness, breaking the awkward and tense atmosphere. Grian was only a little surprised at the relief he felt when he saw the villain. He had corralled them away from GiGi and Vault, down a hallway to the left.

Normally, Grian would very much be protesting the pushy way Doc sent them down the hall and asking questions on where they were going. But he was just so tired… And he trusted Doc well enough. So, he let himself and Scar be led around.

The hallways were lined with plants, much like the room they had just been in. Flowers and pretty leaves clung to the sides, yet never touched them as they walked through. Or at least Grian thinks they didn't. He wasn't really paying attention anymore, his brain feeling like it was moving through a thick fog.

They passed a few rooms, down a set of stairs, and then turned a few times before Doc opened a door and let them through. It was a bedroom, empty and plain. Doc followed them in, closing the door behind them quietly, talking with Scar. There was a large fluffy bed in the center, so Grian decided to take the hint that wasn't there, and take a seat.

He pulled a wing over his shoulder into his lap to gently card his claws through the dirty feathers. He really needed to preen them, but he was much too tired right now. But it felt nice to at least run his fingers through them.

Looking up, he watched as Scar handed over the vial that he had saved from when they were captured. He was so proud that Scar was able to keep it safe the whole time. With everything that happened, the fact that he was able to hold onto it that long was crazy! That being said, he let Scar continue his conversation with Doc without getting involved. He wasn't the one who got the vial, so maybe he can just doze for a minute.

Doc took the vial with a grim nod, thanking Scar lowly. He turned his head to catch eyes with Grian, nodding at him as well. He just nodded back, understanding it was an acknowledgment of presence. Doc said something to them assuring that they were safe here, that ‘he made sure of it,’ whatever that means. There was to be a meeting tomorrow discussing everything that has happened today, including that happened to Doc's base. It made Grian cringe thinking about that; they didn't do it but it still sucks that it happened.

Then Doc left, Scar shutting the door behind him and locking it. He watched as Scar tested the handle to make sure it really was locked before dragging a chair over from the desk in the corner. He wedged it under the handle before sighing and relaxing his shoulders. He walked over and sat next to Grian, the bed dipping where he did. It made Grian slide into his side, groaning annoyed as he did.

Scar laughed, telling him to lay down and go to sleep. That he would take shifts until Doc got them for the meeting. Well, Grian didn't need to be told twice. He kicked his shoes off and curled under the blankets so quickly, he didn't even know when he fell asleep.

There was a knock at the door that woke him up first. He had blinked his eyes open, feeling dehydrated and confused. The room was bright and he lifted his head to find Scar dragging a chair away from the door. He cheeped out his confusion, still tired and wanted Scar to come back.

He heard Scar giggle for a second before he ignored him and opened the door. Grian huffed, but immediately jumped to sitting up straight, realizing behind the door was actually Doc. And all the memories of last night came rushing back.

Gods there's so much to think about that he can already feel the headache coming in. He brings his hands up and massages his temples trying to relieve some of the pressure.

He heard Doc and Scar exchange some words, too busy in his own head to make out what was said. Did they really just crash in some villain's hideout for the night? Sure, Scar blocked the door but they were Heros! In a den of villains!

Well…are they anymore? They were basically just chased out of the Hero Tower and are actively on the run from the Council. And they technically now know where Boatem is so they have to do something about that. As well as having to solve the whole issue with MooPop. Can't forget about the fact that he's technically Watcher, a Hero who famously had powers and Grian very much doesn't.

Gods he just woke up and he's already back to spirling…

Scar walked over to him and told him that it was time for the meeting. He just nodded and hopped out from between the blankets. Rest time over, time to go back to work.

Doc was waiting by the door, Grian giving him a nod as he walked over ready to follow. He nodded back, his red mechanical eye scanning over him as usual. The creeper turns away and starts walking down the hallway with no words exchanged. Grian started to follow before he felt Scar side up and grab his arm.

Looking up at the man he sees that he's still wearing the glasses that Etho gave him. He suddenly realizes that Scar had never woken him up over the night to take watch. But looking at Scar he's pretty sure the man had fallen asleep at some point as well, considering his eye bags seemed a little better.

He just smiled kindly, in a way that Grian didn't quite know what he was getting at. But Scar pulls him out the door without dropping his arm, he notices Scar is also tapping a steady rhythm. Suddenly, Grian understands what he is doing, Scar is trying to keep him grounded. The only way he could have known he was having an issue in the first place was by knowing that he was in his instincts too far. Grian sighs with a near silent coo; it was actually helping quite a bit…

The hallways were different than he remembered them being last night. It's one hundred percent because he was tired out of his mind, but he's a little shocked that he missed all this. Everywhere was covered in some sort of foliage and plants. Greens and pinks were the main colors around, and while the floor was cleared for walking, Doc definitely had to duck under a few hanging flowers. He remembers the plants, but not nearly this variety.

It doesn't take them long to enter a large conference room. The room is dark, walls painted in dark gray and the lights are inlay in the ceiling. Much like out in the hall, there were plenty of plants around here too. There's a dark long wooden table in the center with at least thirty chairs. All of them are empty.

Doc has them sit at the end, which makes sense since they are probably going to be the topic of conversation, but it still feels exposing. Doc sits next to them, pulling out a small stack of papers and placing them in front of himself.

“Well, it's been quite eventful lately!” Scar says, trying to sound chipper but Grian can hear the strain in his voice though. He too still looks worse for wear, especially when compared to the villain he's talking to.

“You got the vial, and lived.” Doc said matter of factly. “Looks like someone tried to stop that from happening.” He says looking the pair up and down pointedly.

“You'd know with what happened to your base.” Grian replies back, crossing his arms feeling slightly called out. He knows they look like shit, but no need to point it out. It was a small jab, knowing that it wasn't their fault for the raid, but still making fun of Doc for it happening.

Either way, Doc gives him a nonplussed stare, which Grian, as an adult, sticks his tongue out at before looking away. Scar barks a surprised laugh, before coughing into his fist as if he didn't. Doc just shakes his head before grabbing one of his folders and pushing it in front of Scar.

“Yes, my base. Thanks for that by the way.” He grumbles, tossing another folder to Grian. The feathered man chirps in offense.

“We didn't send them!” He defends, even though he was the one to bring it up. He has known Doc for quite a while, and apparently longer than he even thought. He really doesn't want the man to think that either Scar or him sent people after him.

“I know, Vogel, I know. It was my fault that I let those bracelets stay in my base. My box was good, but malfunctioned and they pinged their location. I'm just lucky to have gotten out with everyone.” He waved a metal hand in their direction, as if to say it was no big deal.

Grian looked to Scar, who looked at him, and both of them had matching expressions of both guilt and shock. So the “life saving bracelets'' were just a tracker… The fact that the Council got away with that for as long as they did was insane.

“Still…” Scar started, sounded hesitant, but sure, “Sorry that we left them there… and came back so late.” The Hero apologized. The villain paused, thumbing through one of his own folders. Grian hadn't even reached for his, much more interested at what was happening here.

“A Hero apologizing to a villain huh?” Doc asked with a smirk. Scar started to splutter as Grian giggled. It was truly a marvel at how far Scar had come in terms of trusting “villains.” Grian was the first to push him into it, and now he was actually talking, apologizing , to them. Or, to Doc at least, a villain that Scar had history with. He's weirdly proud of him, and that's not to say that Grian trusts each and every one of them one hundred percent. A healthy dose of suspicion never hurt anyone, and it certainly helped them out a few times.

“A Hero does good, no matter who they need to help! Villains included! Probably!” He defends and Grian is suddenly thrust into a memory of a very long time ago.

It was him, looking at a new Hero-in-training standing in the lobby of the Hero Tower. He had a stuffed and overflowing backpack on his back with a beat up suitcase by his foot. His smile was blinding as he bounced on his feet from nerves.

The rest of Boatem was at Grians sides, looking the newbie up and down. Grian was the first to speak, asking him why he wanted to be a Hero and the reply was lackluster, innocent and naive. Something along the lines of “to help the good guys win and protect people!” Grian chuckles, and tells the kid, their newest member:

“Heroes do good, no matter who needs help. That is your first lesson, Scar.”

And he's back at the table, Scar and Doc exchanging quips trying to one-up the other. Gods. They all had so much therapy to do after this.

“Hey-” A voice said off of Scars other side. They interrupted Scars sentence, startling the man so bad he jumped about a foot in the air with a high pitched, very manly scream. That scream then startled Grian so bad he immediately reached for his knives which were unfortunately still not there.

When he swiveled to look over at Scar to see where the threat was (he trusted the villains that Doc did, but he's already established by not that much) he found a smug looking Etho, leaning on the table with his elbow, and his face in his palm. He tweets out his upset at Etho, the man looking at him with wide eyes before breaking out laughing. Doc soon joined him, and then Grian as well. Scar just sat back down with a huff and very red ears.

“When did you get there?” Scar grumbled, leaning closer to Grian. He won't lie, his own heart was also still settling, they were both still a bit on edge, clearly. The Council could be around any corner at this point…

“I've been here the whole time.” He said, and honestly, Grian believed him. Even if he didn't actively see him there, he'd believe that he was somehow around. That's just how Etho was.

Scar seemed to find it smart to also just believe him, huff again and sitting further in his seat. Grian laughed at him once more, flicking his wing at him. Scar caught it, without hurting him, he grabbed gently onto the feathers and just started preening. Grian just let him, it wasn't a full preen so it wasn't embarrassing, plus, he really needed it.

Grian felt the eyes of Doc and Etho on them, choosing to ignore them as best he can. He too decided now was a better time than any and pulled his other wing into his lap to do some light preening.

“You are like a different bird, Birdy.” Etho expressed, watching Grian with kind and wondering eyes, Doc chufsfshis agreement. And he supposed he was, considering that he lived two different lives and just remembered the first. He just sighed a sigh that felt like it came from his bones and ancestors.

“There's a lot to talk about.” He spoke, just continuing to preen without looking up. He wasn't sure how many more people needed to show up, but he was at least waiting for Xisuma before they really got into it. Everyone, Hero, villain, or otherwise should know who he really was and what was really happening in the Hero Tower with the Council.

They seemed to take that as an answer, both knowing that there was, in fact, a lot to talk about. A few more people walked in, the sound making Grian look up from his wing. It was Gem and Ren, both talking animatedly with each other as they came in.

They plopped down next to Doc, Ren accidentally elbowing him in the side as he did.

“Sorry about that Doctor!” He barked, Doc just huffing before pulling his folder back and flipping through pages Grian didn't bother to read. Without any more acknowledgement, Ren just went right back to talking with Gem. Grian couldn't quite catch what they were talking about, but he felt some relief at seeing them. He's glad they got out of the raid that took place at Docs, he doesn't want to think of where they would be if they didn't.

Grian went back to his preening. Scar had pulled more of his wing in his lap, digging a little deeper to untangle a few of the feathers. How he was able to fly both of them away from the Hero Tower and land was just short of a miracle. Or just really lucky…

Either way, it was starting to catch up to him. It was itching and made him feel just gross. Maybe depending on how long this meeting went, he could ask around for a shower. He couldn't dry his wings quickly but honestly he’ll take having to make Scar help towel them down.

More people shuffled in and took seats. Grian was a little shocked to see Joe, Cleo and the Glare hybrid vigilante he remembers seeing at the audition. He was basically bouncing in his chair and Cleo and Joe took seats on either side of him. He wasn't sure how they knew the vigilante, but honestly, there's already so much information to get through he's going to let it slide for now.

“Who's he?” Scar asked out of nowhere. Okay, nevermind guess he will be learning now.

“Hey! I’m BDoubleO, thank you very much!” And he's just as over the top as Grian remembered, if not a fair bit louder.

“‘Boo’?” Scar asks, his hands still carding through his feathers. Nobody even pays it any mind and some part of Grian feels healed.

“Ah! What?” BDoubleO yells, looking all around his chair including underneath. This has got to be the most confused Grian has ever felt a whole room be. That is, except for Cleo and Joe who just laugh before pulling BDoubleO up into his chair before introducing the man to him.

“This is Bdubs and you should know him already!” Cleo said, a hint of boredom in her voice. Joe laughed at Scars' even more confused face, Grian joined in with the laugh since he did know as well.

“He auditioned to be a Hero, Scar, do you not remember the whole Glare hybrid?” Cleo continued. Glares were rare, it should've been a once in a lifetime for Scar, yet he just forgot.

“Umm…There was a lot going on that day?” Scar tries, pursing his lips as he stares at Bdubs. Clearly, Scar has no memory of it, but he certainly is trying to.

“I’m unforgettable! How dare you!” He yells, and Grian gets the feeling that he doesn't have a quieter volume. He was a lot more mysterious during the audition. He seems way more confident now, and he wonders what Cleo and Joe have to do with that.

“The number one Hero has a lot to think about!” Scar yells back, causing Bdubs to splutter. Cleo and Joe just laugh along with Grian. Scars face goes back to a rosy red, having not meant for what he said to sound so pretentious.

“I think you should both stop talking.” Grian muses with a smile, both Scar and Bdubs searching their feelings and deciding to listen. “Good job! I have a question though.” Grian says, looking at Cleo and Joe. The two hiding a little shocked look at Grian addressing them so casually. “Why is he here? Didn't he not pass the audition?”

“The audition was to find a sidekick for HotGuy, Xisuma just has some pull and took on Keralis and by extension xB. But we saw potential in Bdubs so…” She peters off, only for Joe to pick back up.

“So we did a little switch-a-roo and let him keep his memories and have been training him ourselves until the next audition!” He smiles, Bdubs cheering as well.

“I…don't think that's allowed?” Scar says, sounding more like a question.

“Yeah well…We did it so..” Cleo laughed as Scar frowned.

“Do…you guys know why you're here?” He asked.

“Not really. Xisuma told us to come here, and we trust Xisuma. Even though there's villains and a known assassin in this room, I'm confident that Dadsuma would never lead us wrong. So don't try anything 77.” He says flippantly. And maybe it sounds naive, but to Grian his heart breaks just a little. They trust Xisuma, hell, he trusts Xisuma, so fucking much.

77 just huffs out a reply as Gem leans over to talk with Bdubs. He hears something about the audition Room and he clocks out, not wanting to know. He goes back to preening, hearing a few more people walk in, but he doesn't even look up.

It's only after he hears a few more people that he decides to look up and see who. He's done as much as he can for that wing anyways, and Scar seems to be wrapping up on his other one as well. He coos in thanks as he pulls it out of his hands and folds them behind his back. Scar smiles at him and Grian realizes how much better they feel now. It's not perfect, but it's better. And honestly, he’ll take that.

Looking up he sees that the table is actually almost full. He recognizes most people here, Heroes and villains alike. He kept getting flashes of memories of every person that he was confused about. If he's never met them, he at least knows their name… In any case, he could feel how though everybody was conversing with each other quietly, their eyes always seemed to trail over to watch him and Scar.

It could really be for many different reasons. Maybe it was the fact that the number one Hero and his sidekick were just chilling peacefully in a room full of villains. Or possibly the fact that they looked pretty rough up, yet were just sitting there interacting with nobody. It could also be the fact that Scar himself was much more mature than most of the villains were used to. They had also never met CuteGuy before, since they never had the time to ever patrol more than once. (An insecure part of himself told him they were staring at his wings, and that he should put them away. But he had learned more that that line of thinking was more than likely wrong… He has too many memories telling him so.)

He sees that Etho had moved even further over letting xB sit down next to Keralis. And of course, Beef sat next to xB. Tango was a bit further down from them and so were a few more Heroes that Grain knew he had seen at his debut.

GiGi and Vault walked in next, both sitting at the other head of the table directly opposite of Grian and Scar. They had put on their signature twin like uniforms, makeup and hair swept back. The Heroes quieted down for a moment, but the villain didn't even pay them any mind. The two also didn't seem to mind, sitting down and talking quietly between themselves as if they were just passing time.

Grian releases a breath he didn't even know he was holding. He didn't really know why he was holding it either. The two seemed nice enough last night and this is technically their base. It was awfully nice of them to offer their base as a safe space for Heroes and villains alike. Grian can't help but wonder if they have a reason for that.

He turns his head to look at Scar, pausing as he notices him staring at the two villains. He has a small smile on his face, bright yet dimmed eyes tracing over their faces. His eyes shift away to look down at the table, confusing Grian greatly until suddenly, he remembers the conversation he had with Scar about how much he admired GiGi and Vaults look.

“Still admire their looks hmm?” Grian leaned in close as he spoke, not wanting anyone else to hear. Still, Scar startled a little out of his thoughts when he heard Grian speak to him. He turned to face him, before he pursed his lips and crossed his arms.

“I don't know what youre talking about.” He said defiantly. Grian scoffed, knowing that the Hero was just trying to save face. Grian literally painted his face to look like the makeup that the two pulled off. There was no lying to him about it, but it was funny to see him try.

“Yeah. I'm sure. You know, I could probably ask Gem if she has any makeup and I could–” He starts to tease quietly. Scars ears begin to tip a little pink as Grian flicks his eyes looking over to the villainous duo, only to be struck silent at the look vault was sending their way. Their red mechanical eye was bright as they looked at them, or, more specifically Scar. They were just glaring at his partner down with a deep, hating scowl.

It struck Grian aback, not knowing why the villain had such a reaction to Scar. Sure, he was a Hero in a room full of villains, but so were half the other people here. But Vault singled out Scar. There had to be some history he was missing here, so he turned back to see if Scar noticed.

He did, of course. He stared back, not being one to back down as he's been taught to do. But Grian could see the anxiety in it and the way Scar fiddled with his thumbs under the table. After a moment Vault looked away first, going back to talking with GiGi about something.

What was that?

Scar blinked a few times before looking over to Grian, a confused look on his face to match the one Grian was wearing. Great so neither of them knew what that was.

“You must've pissed them off at some point.” Grian shrugged.

“I've pissed a lot of people off…Probably most of this room.” He sighed back, leaning back in his seat, closing off. He was pouting a little, upset at being singled out considering there were many other Heroes in the room that could have pissed them off.

His upset was cut off abruptly when the final two people briskly walked through the door. They had come over and sat next to Scar, Etho having moved two seats down when he saw who they were. Kerlais sat down first, his cheeks flushed under his dark sunglasses. He was breathing heavily, like they had just run here. Still, he had the typical smile on his face as he waved enthusiastically at xB, who simply waved back.

Xisuma stays standing for a moment, the room quieting as he scans around silently looking at each person. The last people he gets to are Grian and Scar themselves, just watching them. He nods at Grian before placing a hand on Scar's shoulder. He sits then, taking his hand back and wrapping them together on his lap.

The room is now silent, all of them looking at each other wondering who will be the one to break it. Grian supposes that the meeting has started, somebody just needs to stand up and lead it. A moment later, right as it started to get a little awkward, GiGi stands up.

“‘Ello all! You know me as GiGi and this is Vault!” Vault lifted their hand with a single wave though the scowl stayed. “This is our not-so-secret base where I’m fulfilling a favor I owed 77! I don't know why we are meetin’ ‘ere, but I will say that for our Hero friends ‘ere, I swear on me life that you will not be harmed while ‘ere. It was part of 77s deal.” She mumbles the last part, as if it was annoying.

“Why should we trust you?” Tek throws out, tensed in his chair and clearly uncomfortable at the situation.

“Why should we trust you ?” Vault sends back, eyes still looking at Scar.

“I would like to know what I did to piss you off.” The remark Scar threw back almost made Grian choke. He was not expecting the Hero to clap back at all, especially when he said it so casually, like he was truly interested in what Vault was talking about.

“How dare-!” Vault started before GiGi put her hand down onto their shoulder stopping them mid sentence.

“Let's keep it civil, you lot!” She looked nervously between the two. “‘Ow bout, to gain some trust real quick, we go ‘round and say our names! That way we are all on the same level!” She suggests with a smile, but she is immediately met with backlash from both villains and Heroes.

“Why should we do that when we don't even know why we're here!” Beef looked just as uncomfortable at the same time Tango says, “Of course a villain would suggest that!”

“Wait yeah! What's the point of even being here with them ?” A villain Grian recognized as Mire, him ignoring the comment Tango made. He never ran into him as a vigilante or as CuteGuy, but Watcher has a few memories with him. A few fights here and there both walked away relatively unscathed.

“Rich coming from someone like you!” False threw back, hand resting on the hilt of her sword. Grian could feel the tensions rising, but he didn't really know how to break it up. The Heroes clearly didn't trust the villains, and the villains didn't even know what the point of being here was.

The shouting kept going, raising in volume as a few even stood up to yell louder. GiGi sighed and plopped back down in her chair, huffing as she hid her face in her hands. Scar and Grian stayed out of it, looking to each other and shrugging. Neither really knew how to handle this, especially because they weren't quite sure what the villains were doing here either.

“Alright enough!” Doc shouted, slamming his hands on the table as he stood. A threatening hiss was sounding throughout the room as the group held their tongues. “You have all been gathered here by people you trust and you have our word and GiGis word of safety. Believe me when I say, we wouldn't have gathered you here if it wasn't something important. So just shut up and listen!” He all but growled. Many slowly sat back down, watching Doc as they did. A few held strong before giving up and sitting back down as well with exasperated sighs.

The last two left standing were Doc and Xisuma, the Hero standing not because he was fighting Doc, but because he was trying to get their attention well before Doc did. He didn't seem to put out by it though, nodding to Doc as if to say thanks.

“I know many of you are confused and possibly even suspicious,” a few villains scoffed, but Xisuma ignored him and continued talking. “But we have some very important information to share with all of you. Information that could lead to the couple of the entirety of Hermit Empire if we don't get a handle over it now. It's no secret that you all are the most powerful people in the city. I know we are all from different walks of life, but despite popular belief, the people in this room are the only people in all of Hermit Empire that can be trusted.”

That seemed to get most of their attention, including Grian. So these must've been the only Heroes that Xisuma could ensure were clean of the Councils influence. He's not going to lie, he's a bit disappointed at the turn out. Out of over one hundred Heroes, only seventeen were trustworthy. That was not great odds…

“I know a lot of the villains in this room are untrusting of us, and that's a fair assessment. I feel it is only fair to lay out my hand as an olive branch first. My name is Xisuma,” Most everyone in the room gasped at his blasé admittance. Even Grian wasn't expecting the number two rated Hero to just air out his name for a room of villains. But when compared to the situation they were in, Grian had no room to doubt Xisuma's way of gaining trust and help.

“I was contacted by 77 late last night, as we have been in correspondence and might I say tentative friends, for years.” Again, lots of whispers and small gasps echoed through the room. Grian didn't even know that, and judging by the slightly betrayed look on Scars face, neither did he. “Clearly, his base was raided last night by Heroes, none of the Heroes here I’ll add.” He pauses, letting that information sink in and be heard before continuing. “Doc had asked a little about why he had been a target, this is before he found out why, but I hadn't even heard there was going to be a raid that night. They had left most of us out, and after a few other things that happened, we knew we had to come here for a meeting. Doc?” Xisuma finished.

There were tons of more questions arising than answers after he was done.

“I pulled the villains here. I have been tracing a new drug found on the streets that many of you might be familiar with. MooPop, as it's called, has horrifying effects and is highly addictive and always ends in death for the user. At first I thought it was a villain,” Protest broke out among a few, but were quickly quieted. “I was wrong. None of you owned up to it, and none of you would want to kill the entire town's powered population.” Doc sighed, long and drawn out.

“We are all connected to this, whether we like it or not. So let's keep it civil for now and fight about it later.” He grumbled, sitting back down. Ren leaned into his side. “Oh, and call me Doc, I guess.”

“I’m Ren!” The dog hybrid barked, he lowered his glasses showing off his bright eyes with a sly smile. Some of the Heroes bristled, the older ones recognizing him as Grim, the retired villain.

“I’m Gem, and I have a question!” She started with an easy smile. Xisuma seemed to recognize her, his helmet tuning slight to the side as he nodded to her to continue. “Why do they look like shit?” And then she pointed directly at Scar and Grian. Rude!

Both of them spluttered and even a few people around the table choked on a laugh. Xisuma sighed while shaking his head.

“They've had a long day.” He said back, not even letting Grian and Scar defend themselves.

“Yeah! We've had a long day!” Scar huffed as if it was a glorious defense.

“I’m glad you brought them up though, because they are up first on our bullet points for this meeting. But I feel it would come off more sincere if it came from them. Boys?” He sat down, gesturing for the floor to now be theirs.

Grian was not expecting to have to tell the story himself. Hasn't he lived through it enough times already? Apparently not considering even Scar was looking directly at him, waiting for him to speak. He was reminded of several times where he was put in similar situations as Watcher, so at least he has experience.

Slowly, Grian stood up, his wings folded neatly behind himself. He wasn't really sure where to start with this. While it was only a few weeks ago, it felt like so much longer. He supposed the most important thing was to tell them that Watcher and Boatem were alive. And probably also that he is Watcher. But he also can't forget to tell them about MooPop… That's also a long story. He rubs a palm over his eyes as he sighs.

Well, the best place to always start has to be the beginning. And so that's where he probably should too.

“My name is Grian, currently CuteGuy, formally an unnamed vigilante.” He looks at all the faces around the table. He knows that only just ten hours ago he wouldn't recognize most of the villains. But now, after last night, he can place a name to the face of every single person in this room. “Also formally known as that number one Hero Watcher.”

He watches as their faces morph into a plethora of different emotions. Many of them are in stages of shock or, more commonly, disbelief. There were gasps and murmurs among them all as they looked over him, eyes piercing him and appraising his stature. He even caught a few staring at his wings, making him unconsciously pull them back.

He catches eyes with Etho. The assassin looks at him with more emotion in his eye than Grian thinks he's ever seen. He looked shocked, and maybe a little confused.

“I know it's hard to believe but hear me out.” Grian looked away. “Three years ago I woke up in my apartment and my family was gone. I searched anywhere and everywhere and nobody had even heard of the people I was looking for. So for years I lived as a vigilante hoping for a chance to get into the Hero Tower to use their archives to further my search. A few weeks ago, I was accepted as HotGuys sidekick.” He decided to skip a bit from there, not much was interesting or relevant.

“I found that they weren't in the archive either, but I also learned from HotGuy of a group of Heros named Boatem, and their disappearance that took place at some time.” He pauses, letting out a shaky sigh knowing what he had to admit next. But before he can continue, Scar speaks up.

“I’m HotGuy, better known as Scar,” He said before starting right where Grian left off. “During that, we were given a mission to get to the bottom of a new drug named MooPop hitting the streets. We did as we were told, sleuthing around the streets as well as es–uh-stab-lish-ments,” Grians eyes flick over to Joel and Lizzie sitting closer to GiGi and Vault. The pair looked away as if guilty for what had happened in their place. “We ended up meeting with Doc, who told us more about the drug than even the Association knew. Or at least more than what the Association told us.” He sighed.

He was speaking in a way that commanded the attention of the room and Grian is once again forcibly reminded of Scar's status as number one Hero. The young man before him literally changed before his eyes into a leader. It almost seemed natural for him, if only Grian didn't know who he used to be. Who they both used to be.

“Every night since we got the mission,” Grian cuts in lightly. “I was having…dreams. Dreams about Watcher and Boatem. Things I couldn't explain. Stuff wasn't lining up and the dreams wouldn't stop coming. Then I talked to Ker– um…” He stops himself from saying Keralis’ name, in case the almost Hero doesn't want it out there. He didn't have an alias yet, and Grian really doesn't want to hurt his chances of getting one.

The waves him off though, giving him a thumbs up with a smile. Keralis probably would've had to tell them all his name anyways.

“Keralis, who has a mind tracing power, told me I had missing and blocked off memories.” He goes to take a breath, intent on continuing his story about getting his memories back, when he feels a hand suddenly on his shoulder.

He jumps a little, tweeting a sharp sound as he flicked his head to see Scar standing next to him. He had been too wrapped up in his thoughts he didn't even notice the Hero standing. Scar gives him a light smile, taking over the talk to fill in some gaps.

“They kept sending us into more dangerous situations until finally, we found out that the people behind MooPop in the first place were the Council themselves.” The room was completely silent, and Grian couldn't tell if it was from shock or waiting for Scar to say ‘sike.’ “We– I– I should've known.” He stumbles for the first time. “We were trapped by people in purple robes, masks with eyes painted on. They shot me in the thigh, then Grian through the wing.” He hears a few gasps from the table, but Scar doesn't stop. “They clearly caught us, sniped us out of the air, and then threw us in the cells below the Hero Tower. We had passed out when we got caught, but I'd say we were down there for at least ten hours. During our escape we ran into Xisuma, and that's where we found out about Grians memories.”

“Our story is almost identical to boatems but we started reliving it without even knowing.” Grian says. “Boatem found out the truth about MooPop and were… disposed of and now they're after us too.”

“So youre saying that the Council already had a group on their tail, got rid of them, only to send a group after themselves again?” Oli asked in a non accusatory way. He sounded genuine while asking, like he was just trying to understand.

“Basically, yes. I think they've known who I was since the beginning and were trying to keep tabs on me while also trying to kill us.” Grian answers, only slightly flicking his eyes over to Etho, who leans further back in his chair. “They wanted to get rid of me, after figuring I was alive. And they knew that their drug empire had grown, so they probably didn't expect me to last this long…”

“But…” Someone timidly starts. He looks around the room before eyes land on a small sheep hybrid that he distantly remembers being a healer for hire. “But if you are Watcher then where is the rest of Boatem? Oh! And I’m Zedaph…” He asks, adding his name last second.

“We…don't know.” Grian states heavily. “That night was a mess but….” He looks over to Xisuma before speaking again, waiting for some sort of nod to confirm he can tell the story. But he gets nothing. “We were thrown into…the void. But I was just, spit out. I guess.” He finishes lamely, his heart picking up speed. He didn't sound very believable but he also didn't want to expose Xisuma.

“The– did you just say the void?” Vault says with an incredulous look. Most everyone else echoed them as well.

“Hold on! Let's back up,” Beef started holding his hands up. “You're saying that the Hero Association is actually the ones responsible for not only MooPop, but also the disappearance of Boatem?”

“Like it's hard to believe.” A villain known as Hels scoffed.

“What's that supposed to mean?” Jimmy bit back.

“You know what it means.” Hels leaned over the table with a wide, faux kind smile. His silver red helmet clinked as his head moved.

“Listen!” Doc all but growled. They all settled again, watching Grian as if he had the answers to everything. Technically, he did, but he wished he didn't.

“Thank you Doc. Um– to answer the question, yes. The Council has been behind it all since Watcher was instated. I remember them calling Wat– me, to meetings. Asking me to take Boatem out to fight so often, yet we never patrolled. We never went on missions that mattered until we got on the case of MooPop. Mum– Redstone started working on an antidote.” He explained, Doc took this moment to stand back up.

“I would like to pivot off that and talk more about MooPop and its dangers. I want to make it clear that while the disappearance of Boatem was problematic, the only reason they did it was because of this drug.” Grian decided now was a great time to sit back down.

He flopped down with a sigh, his wings fluttered as Scar reached over and ran his fingers through the one closest to him. The air felt tense and he knew that his story was hard to believe. But if they were going to get help, then they needed them all to agree on the danger here.

So far it seemed not hard to get the villains to believe that the Council was corrupt. No real shocker there. Most villains that he knew about didn't start out purely as a villain. Most started as vigilantes at least, and then just fell more into the villainous side.

It wouldn't have been hard for Grian to take a similar path if he wanted to. Instead of waiting to check the archives from the inside, he could have gained power and then just stormed the Tower. It wouldn't have helped him any though, now that he knows there was almost no information about them down there anyway.

It had always felt wrong to think of doing it that way though. It was never a second thought to just go about his vigilante business until he would be able to waltz on in the Tower and take a peak himself. Look where that got him now…

“A year or so back I noticed an increase in death cases relating to overdose, and it was only getting worse. Before you ask,” He held his hand up, cutting off a few voices. “I was looking into biomedical redstone uses, and asked Zed to get me some medical documents from the hospital he was working at.” The medic-for-hire nodded, leaning back in his seat.

“There was a pattern I noticed and I was curious what was going on. I looked into things, and after getting some blood samples, also from Zedaph, I found that they all had taken MooPop before they died. I've been following and testing it since then.

In the last few weeks, the potency has been off the charts.” He opens the folder in front of himself and takes a paper out of the stack. He holds it up so he can examine it first, before passing it off to Ren, who just passes it to Gem, who in turn gives it to Cleo. She looked over it with a critical eye. “For those unaware, MooPop is a power heightener for those who have a power. It is highly addictive for that reason, but unlike normal drugs that enhance power, it also affects non-powered people. For them it's like a normal, feel-good, high.” The paper is slowly being passed around the table.

“I truly had no clue that the Hero Association had anything to do with this, but I was slowly trying to find the source. I reached out to most of you guys at several points to see if you'd all take responsibility, but none of you did.”

“What's the point?” Tango spoke up, sounding genuinely interested and confused. “If it was killing powered people, wouldn't that be good for you guys?”

“Not so fast,” Surprisingly, Joe was the one to speak up. “Sure they might be self-proclaimed ‘malefactors’ but you wouldn't be able to eat a peach without the tree. No people, no villains. The issue overall is that the drug is killing off an alarmin’ amounts of people, while targetin’ powers.”

“And knowing that the Council is behind it, it's even more concerning that they are after powered people.” Xisuma finished. Grian couldn't help but feel just a little offended and insecure. Sure, targeting people who have powers is dangerous, but as a non-powered person he feels like he's within his right to feel upset at what Xisuma implied. But he also understands that this is not the place to say something about it, especially since he's in a room full of powered people.

“Overall, it is in all our best interest to figure this out. I’m not naive and I wish you wouldn't treat me as such, as well as your fellow Heroes and villains. I know some of you are friends with each other.” Several heads swiveled to look across the table or even right next to them. Grian was surprised at the amount of faces that showed slightly embarrassed or nervous faces. “The world has never been black and white. I admit, after Boatem disappeared even I played into the new Assication ideal of it being so.” He turns to look more at Scar.

“Heroes have always been kind to everyone they can, whether they are a villain or not. It was never a rule that in your personal life you couldn't fraternize with villains or anyone really. Heroes, you came here because of the trust you have in me. And villains, you came here because of the trust you have in Doc. All I ask is find some trust in each other too. And of course you can leave right now if you want no stake in the game, but–”

“What's the point?” A villain Grian knows is named Tized. “While I agree that the harming of citizens is bad, I have a heart. But we're talking about the whole Hero Association here! Villains have tried to talk them down before, and clearly they have been using substances to make themselves stronger. How do we even start with that?” He asks, and honestly it's a good question.

It's a question that he's thinking himself if he's honest. Now that he knows everything (that's a loaded word now, ‘everything.’ There's just so much ‘everything’ now.) it feels a bit hopeless. Boatem is still gone, and the good guys are actually the bad guys, and now somehow he has to solve it. Or, while he definitely has help now, he should at least have all the answers. He's Watcher for fucks sake.

Tized was right, what were they supposed to do?

“I’ve been working on an antidote, but nothing has ever stuck.” Doc cuts in, almost a growl like he's upset at himself for it. “Nothing I have made has ever come close but I was hoping some of you that are also proficient in redstone can help take a look.” Ren looks over at Doc with a simple, patting the cyborg on his shoulder as if proud of him.

“Redstone had been working on an antidote, but the Council said they destroyed it when they confronted us.” Grian spoke up, thinking back to the moments before the void.

“Did he write it down?” Tango asked, sounding interested.

And just like that, Grian remembers.

“I just think we should have something in place in case…something happens.” Impulse raised his voice a bit since he had his back facing them.

At the silence, Impulse finishes hiding documents in the floor, replacing the carpet and standing back up to face them. He had a look on his face as if he didn't know whether to continue or not. With a final sigh, he walks back over and sits facing them on the other side of the table.

“I think that just in case one of us…becomes compromised we should hide all the antidote recipes where nobody will find it, including us.” He places his hands neatly folded on the table.

“How will we do that? We shouldn't have someone else be involved in this…” Pearl sips her coffee smoothly.

“I think Mumbo should hide them in a place where only he knows.” Impulse explains simply.

“He did… He did!” Grian looks at Scar with a smile that the man didn't give back. He just gives Grian a confused tilt of his head. “I– I just remembered…that M– Redstone said that he wrote it down but Imp- Mighty, told him to hide it somewhere.” He flicks his wing nervously, he can feel the stares of the rest of the room, as well as doubt.

“Well…no matter how convenient that may be… Redstone isn't here, nor do we know where he is. So if only he knew where it was, then we might have to rely on Doc.” Tango sighed back.

“Well, if we find out where Boatem is then maybe we can ask him?” Zed suggested, Xisuma tensing immediately. Grian saw as Keralis moved his hand over to touch Xisumas. He knew it was an innocent ask, but he felt his own stomach clench at the thought as well. Even Scar had a reaction.

“Do you…know where they are?” Zed asked, sounding nervous. Grian swallowed thickly, not particularly wanting to talk about this part of the story. Mostly because he had so much to do with Xisuma, and it should be his choice whether to tell it. So he looked at the Void Walker, the Hero looking down at his lap.

“They forced me to use my power as a Void Walker to send them to the void.” He gritted out all in one breath. He heard Doc suck in a breath, an interesting emotion from the creeper considering it was new information to the group.

“They what?” He growled, once again shocking the group.

“Much like Watcher, my memory was altered after the fact. I too just got them back, I didn't even remember that I had Void Walker powers like that…” Xisuma let out a heavy sigh. “Many of you are aware that my brother, Evil Ex, also went missing around the same time. While most of us including myself thought that he just…ran away. Or possibly something worse. But,” his voice broke, making him clear his throat with a shake of his head. Keralis decided now was the time that he could speak up.

“Evil Ex was used as blackmail for Xisuma to use his power. He was told that his brother would be let go afterwards, but it was a lie and Evil Ex was thrown in with Boatem.” Kealis said evenly as Xisuma took a shaky breath. After clearing his throat again, he spoke.

“Yes, what Keralis said. That being mentioned, we know where Boatem went but we don't know where they are . The void is tricky, and even if I was strong enough to, I couldn't just reach in and grab them. That's just not how it works.”

Grian couldn't help but look over the faces of the people in the room. There were a lot of different expressions to go through. He was surprised to see how many of the villains looked completely pissed. GiGi looked like she was about to jump the table to hug the Hero, while Vault was just looking down at their lap with a scowl in their face.

Most of the Heroes looked a mixture of confused but also just as upset. Grian imagines it's much like how he felt when all the puzzle pieces fell into place for himself too. The world that they've been living in has just been proved a lie, and one of their most trusted friends has turned out to be the most harmed.

The air was still tense, people thinking quietly and deciding where to go from here. Grian wasn't super sure what they were asking of these people. They definitely need help, and they definitely need people they can trust.

“Alright. I think that we all have a lot to fink abou’.” GiGi stood up clapping her hands together. She still looked pissed, the plants in the room slowly spreading along the ground and across the ceiling closer to her. “I ‘ave plenty ov rooms for everyone and food too. Mingle around if you wan’, we can ‘ave ‘nother meeting tomorrow. Leave if you would like as well, but you will be forced to talk to…the villain to me left… before you go for our safety.”

Grian couldn't help but snicker a little when he saw who she was talking about. The villain named ‘Daddy’ was sitting next to her, a known empath who used his ability to talk his way around anybody to get what he wants. The man was dressed in a guards outfit, his beard neatly trimmed and dark hair slicked back. He looked almost offended at what GiGi said, but most everyone Grian can remember avoids saying his names as much as they possibly can.

“I agree, let's wrap it up here. Heroes, I will say you are completely free to leave. But if you do, then you will definitely be questioned. I made sure that only Keralis and I were…suspicious.” Xisuma said, rubbing his wrist. “If you wish, you're bracelets will be put back on but only when you are very far from here.”

Nobody moved, all watching Xisuma. Then, xB spoke up from next to Keralis, his voice soft yet confident.

“My name is xB, and this is Beef…” He elbowed Beef to his right. The Hero elbowed back, but also nodded his head.

“That's me.” He gave a small smile, then turned to the potion making villain next to him.

“I’m uh– Pause…” He coughed, his tan cheeks twinged pink with all the eyes on him. Oh, Grian understood what was happening. His chest felt a little warm and his feathers ruffled as well. He didn't actually expect them to follow through with GiGis idea of them all sharing their names.

“I’m Pixel, or just Pix.” And next to Pix was Joey, False, Tango and Jimmy which are Heroes he already knows. They all said their names with little flare, Tango surprisingly easy sounding. Grian certainly didn't miss how Jimmy and Tango seemed to lean closer together.

The slime hybrid's name is Jevin and Tized is Hypno. Daddys name is unfortunately Sausage and no matter how many people started to snicker and protest, he assured them that it was real. With that they had come directly across the table from Grian and Scar.

GiGi didn't even hesitate to reveal her name is Stress, but Vault scowled looking across to them. Stress didn't let them stew long though, punching their shoulder making them scoff and roll their eyes. They sighed saying their name is Iskall. It got a few gasps from the villain community, but Grian wasn't privy to why.

Next was Snow Major (who Grian suddenly felt a little guilty about remembering their fight years ago) who is Scott, and next to him is Lizzie and Joel. They were whispering to each other while flicking their eyes to Grian every once in a while.

Then there was Oli, Zed, Katherin and Shelby. The first of those four being healers, the only healers in the room. He hoped that Oli and Katherin stayed, knowing for a fact that they had comparable healing for at least Scar. Not that he thinks they'll need it, or at least he hopes they won't.

Then there was Wels and the fWhip, two villains Grian has never actually interacted with. Of course he had heard of them as both Watcher and a vigilante. Hels and Chaos tended to make a great team when they decided to.

After that it was just Joe, Bdubs, Cleo, Gem, Ren and Doc. Everyone had said their names without much issue, many were smiling gently and quietly conversing with those around themselves. Slowly, they all started to remember that the meeting was over and that they could leave if wanted. A few did, standing up in pairs or small groups while talking. Few left the room, more got up and started to walk over to Grian.

They all had this certain look in their eyes as they walked over and Grian just knew they had a lot of questions. He took a deep breath, preparing himself for the inevitable onslaught. It almost felt like the moments before his debut, right before HotGuy opened the door for him into the crowd of flashing lights.

Here it was much different though. The questions that they are going to ask, he knows he doesn't have good enough answers for. Most of this stuff barely makes sense to him, so how was he supposed to answer questions on specifics?

Still, he rolled his shoulders and fluffed his wings out like before. He almost cringed at the feeling, wishing more than anything he could escape to a shower, but knowing that this is more important than that.

When he breathed out, he opened his eyes and squared his shoulders and posture. If he was going to be questioned like Watcher he might as well act like the guy as well. He's changed a lot personally since being Watcher, but they didn't know that. And he really wanted to put on the most believable face for them.

The group started to crowd around him and Scar, whispering to each other. Looking to Scar he saw the Hero's blank face, he too seemingly amped up for a long press conference-like standoff. That is, until someone to the side clears their throat loud enough that everyone stops speaking.

“I don't think now is the time for questions,” Xisuma said kindly. He had broken through the group a little to stand behind Scar chair, putting a hand on his shoulder. “We will have time after these two get cleaned up and we’ve all had something for lunch. Alright?” He didn't wait for an answer before pushing Scar lightly so he knew to stand up. He took the hint, standing while grabbing Grians hand, making him do the same.

The group didn't protest, a few of them giving small apologies as they backed up or left the room. Xisuma started to crowd Keralis and them to the door as well, Grian feeling eternally grateful for the Hero. He really didn't want to have to sit through more questions with his wings getting progressively more and more itchy.

Right before they reached the door Grian heard someone call out, making them all stop short. Stress jogged up to them, a serious look in her eye but a smile on her face. Iskall hung back, leaning against the wall aways from them with their head looking down at the mossy carpet.

“Hiya loves!” Xisuma places himself slightly in front of the two of them, covering Grian and half of Scar from view. It's clearly a defensive move so that Stress can’t ask them anything without Xisuma making it weirdly uncomfortable. Grian cheeps a little from behind him, confused at the step. Why stop their host from speaking with them?

Sure Grian feels gross and tired still, but he feels like he should at least extend a courtesy for the woman providing them shelter. But…something in his chest feels warm getting treated like this from the Hero. A few memories pop up of Xisuma doing similar to Watcher, but he can feel how much his past self didn't appreciate it.

Stress tumbled on anyways, even with Xisuma clearly trying to hint to her not to ask any questions. He's such a dad sometimes.

“I just wanted to let you lot to know about the bath house on the lower floor. It would better accommodate wings and the like! There's private and public rooms, hot springs and a pool.” She leans in close like she's telling a secret. “I ‘ad to install it for a certain dragon a long time ago.” She laughs, and Grian swears he hears someone growl.

“Oh! Shashwham that sounds like fun!” Keralis decides to speak up from behind them all. He pushes his way to the front, leaning over the Hero's shoulder with a bright smile. “Can we go?”

“Of course love! I’ll lead you there!” She squeezes past Xisuma and out the door, Keralis happily following her along. Xisuma seems to let out a heavy sigh, but walks out the door.

Grian looks up at Scar, the Hero having been silent for a while, but he just shrugs his shoulders and follows along. Right before they exit, Grian looks over his shoulder and sees Iskall watching them leave. They have that ever-present scowl until they notice that Grian is staring. He can't be 100% sure, but he's pretty sure that their eyes soften when they see him. But he's past the door before he can really be sure.

They turn down the hall, following Xisuma, who is following Stress and Keralis. The latters seem to be having a loud and rambling conversation about something to do with plants. Speaking of the plants, Grian finally looked around the hallway to better observe the plant life.

There were plenty of flowers, pinks and greens and blues seeming to be the main theme. That's not to say there aren't a plethora of other colors, but those stood out the most. Especially the huge magenta flowers, a single petal as big as Grians head, affixed randomly all along the ceiling as they walked.

Pollen was floating through the air, yet never once did Grian breathe any in. He wondered if that was Stress’s influence, or Scars. Either way he couldn't ignore how the plants seemed to reach toward Stress as she walked by them. A few bolder ones would reach out far and she would pet them before flicking them away without even missing a beat with Keralis.

He realizes that this really is her domain, and that he's glad she's on their side (at least it seems so), otherwise he would be very worried about being so surrounded by the vines and flowers. There's so many villains and Heroes here now, he wonders if they feel the same.

It seemed like most of them in the meeting at least believed their stories. Doc had the proof of the drugs lethal effects, and Xisuma had…the trust of the Heroes.

Honestly the Heroes seemed to trust almost too much. Maybe that's what got them in this situation in the first place.

Grian remembers that first meeting he had with the Council all those years ago. It's almost crystal clear, unnatural when compared to normal memories which are a bit fuzzy around the edges. He had been scared, newly appointed as the leader of the team (he had ignored, then, how he was the oldest of the group then. Barely 19, and Pearl was definitely underage as well as Mumbo. Impulse was the same age as himself, but insisted that he wasn't the right man for the job. He can feel a hot wash of anger run through him at his past self for just being okay with Pearl and Mumbo being Heroes while that young. But…they were struggling so badly. Living on the streets and begging for food most days. It was shitty all around, he supposes.)

He walked in with his mask over his face like he was instructed. They were all so intimidating, but he they were the ones who protected the city. So they must be safe, right? That's what he told himself. Over and over again, each time they ramped up the difficulty of missions. What he told himself when they started asking for the others to join the meetings in masks as well. What he told himself when he forced some 18 year old sharpshooter to join their group.

What he could no longer tell himself that when he watched the pills and liquid hit the streets after watching it be passed out from a Hero's hand. What he could no longer convince himself of as they lied straight to his face after he reported on it. What he had to pretend to believe, knowing that their doom was impending.

And now here he was, living the whole thing over again. Not only living it twice over, but having to come to terms with both at the same time, his past self never getting the time to grieve. Does he even deserve the right? He led them there… He could have just left it alone. Sure, they agreed to fight with him, but as their leader he should've like…done something! Probably!

Scar didn't even know what they had been fighting when he went to try and save them. Just jumped in and tried to help them. No wonder he never suspected the Council. Sure he must have seen them in the room, but he had never even met the Council before. And then everyone just went on like nothing happened, like what he saw never happened. He must have been so lonely and scared after they all disappeared. Much like Grian was for so long, even if he didn't want to admit it.

He really didn't want to admit how much getting these memories back is fucking him up. Every time he thinks of something he feels a million miles away and on top of that, he feels like he's at war with himself. Years of being the number one Hero and having to do everything he saw Scar do. It's a contradiction of what he thought he knew and he doesn't want to change who he is, but who he is isn't who he used to be.

Is he still himself now though? So much has changed even before he got memories back, or even knew they were missing.

A startled chirp broke out of his throat as Scar held his arm in front Grians chest for him to run into. He quickly looked at his surroundings, realizing that they were no longer in a hallway, but a giant cave of sorts. He hadn't even realized that they had walked down stairs, or took an elevator. He must have been really deep in his own head…

He shakes his head, flicking his aural feathers out as if that'll expel the heavy thoughts plaguing him. After a moment he looks up at Scar, the man's face set in a slightly concerned and confused look. Xisuma walks over and if Grian could see his face, he would probably be holding a similar look. Ugh, embarrassing.

He goes to open his mouth, ready to assure them that he's alright, just thinking. But the only thing that comes out is a disgruntled chirp. It shocks him so bad that he flinches back on himself. Whatever look was on his face must have been hilarious since Scar immediately started laughing so hard he just about doubled over.

He felt his wings fluff up defensively, once again opening his mouth to give some very well thought out, poignant, rely but once again the only thing that came out was a series of coos and chirps that vaguely translated to ’I’ll fuck you up for laughing at me!’ while also mixing with ’Hey, my wings feel like shit. Ew, gross, ouch.’

Scar just laughed harder, reaching a hand up to wipe under his eye as Grian tweets, chirps and occasionally hisses at him.

“Alright you two! No fightin’ in the Lush Cave!” Stress came over, poorly disguising her own giggles. He chirped at her next, he didn't know her and she was getting too close to Xisuma and Scar. Or, wait. No, that's… Aw man not again!

Grian shut his mouth with an audible ‘click,’ drawing his hands up to cross them over his chest. His claws dug a bit into his arms but that was fine, they were dull at this point anyways. He cannot believe he had accidentally just shoved himself face first into his insects like that, and didn't even realize until he tried to speak. He tries not to find it embarrassing, knowing that it's okay to do Avian things.

He just wishes that it wasn't happening here in front of a stranger…

Scar seems to realize Grian closed himself off, stifling his giggles and purposefully taking a step towards Grian. He doesn't mention it, but he does reach over and take his hand and gently prying them away from his arms. He lets him do, if only for Scars' own piece of mind.

“Well! Just a quick tour then. Over there,” She pointed behind herself, further into the dimly lit, yet cozy cave. “Is the pools. They are heated, yet cool. There's also some hot springs and stuff dotted around. Over ‘ere,” she shifted to point to the right of them. “Is the extra storage for towels and your stuff. There's also robes and clothes if you would like as well. But in there,” she points to a door, clearly built into the wall. “Is the personal showers and rooms. They also have robes and stuff too. There's a large pool meant for bathin’ if you wish, but that's usually for large creatures. I’d prefer if you didn't walk around here naked.” She looks at Keralis with a pointed grin he takes in stride.

“Alright, off you pop!” She smiles, “You two stink!” Keralis laughs as she pushes Scar and himself towards the private showers.

“That's so rude, I do not!” Scar gasps back, and to be fair, they almost 100% do but she didn't need to say it. So he chirps his disdain at her as well all the way up to her throwing them past the door. He stumbles, knocking into Scar before he steadies them both. Grian flips around ready to give her a piece of his mind but the door is already closing. The last thing he sees is Stress pleased smile, and Keralis dragging Xisuma deeper into the cave.

After the door closes, Grian coos in faux retaliation. He's sure that the door was unlocked and they could leave, but they really do need a shower. But he's going to pretend he got the last word anyways.

He turns around, seeing that Scar has already decided to investigate the area. They are in a room very similar to the cave. And Grian didn't get a best look at the larger cave, but this place seemed just as cozy. The lights were low, and there was a layer of soft green moss under his feet. The ceiling wasn't as high either, it mimicked a natural cave, but clearly wasn't. The walls were lined with empty cubbies along with cabinets hanging pink robes. There were also towels and other labeled compartment with clothes and the like.

It was a wonder why Stress had such an organized place. How often did she have people down here to have clothes and the like organized by size? He wasn't sure, but he was glad to take advantage of it. She said they were allowed to use the space, so he was going to use it.

He walked over and toed his shoes off, shoving them in a little cubby by the door. They were kind of a mess, and barely wearable, but they were all he had. And he really didn't want to ask Stress for new boots either. She was already kind enough to not ask him questions.

He grabbed a towel, and some of the darker colored clothes that were in his size. They probably weren't meant for Avians, so he would have to cut holes in the back. But anything is better than the rags he's wearing at the moment.

He finishes grabbing his clothes, turning to see Scar had done the same. There were two hallways branching off of this room. One had a sign hanging over it, held up by vines, saying “Hot Room!” and the other said “Showers!” And while Grian was just a bit curious as to what “Hot Rooms” were, his wings practically buzzed at the idea of getting cleaned.

He looked at Scar, chirping sharply at him as the man lazily walked around looking at the detail of the plants. He looked up quickly from across the room, walking around a bench to side up next to Grian. Happy with that, Grian led them down the hallway hopefully to some showers.

It didn't take long until they reached a series of doors. There were around ten or so, completely enclosed shower stalls all lined up next to each other. Again, they also had a lush vibe to them with flowers and sweets scents coming from within. There were soaps affixed to the walls, like a hotel, so they wouldn't need to grab some from anywhere else.

Grian went to walk into a stall, but something in his brain made him hesitate. A saddened coo escaped and his feathers ruffled from back to the tips of the feathers themselves. He turned to Scar, and chirped at him.

The Hero was also hesitating about walking into a stall, hands clenching around the clothes he was holding. He chirped again, not quite knowing what he was asking for, but somehow Scar seemed to just know. He started to laugh nervously, rocking on his heels closer to Grian, then further away like he didn't know which way to go.

“I’m not gonna shower with you, Birdy.” He jokes, Grian chirping loudly out of shock. He felt his face flush, chirping some more upset at Scar for even suggesting the idea! It always gets so annoying that he can't speak when he's like this… Still though, neither of them moved into the stalls. His wings flick towards Scars, as if his bird-brain was trying to remind them both that Grian is going to need help.

Scar huffs nervously, turning his head to look at the ground like he's embarrassed. If anyone should be embarrassed it's Grian! His stupid bird-brian not wanting him to be far from Scar, considering that he's confirmed part of his flock, and he just got him back. But what's making it even harder is that Scar isn't pushing him away either. Like it's just as hard for him too…

Oh. Oh… Scar also feels that way.

“I know… um… This is awkward.” He tries to joke, pink tinting his cheeks as well. He reaches up and pulls his glasses off, swiping his wrist over his eyes while taking a deep breath. “I know you are having a hard time speaking right now, stuck in some Avian instinct stuff. So how about we both quickly take a shower to wash off, and then after we meet right here and then we can go back and I'll help with your wings?” He suggests, dropping his arm.

Grian…accepts that idea. It makes the most amount of sense, and he's sure that he can be out like, really quick if he tries. He nods, quickly padding into a stall, and watching to make sure Scar takes the one next to his.

He closes his door with no light feeling, and doesn't lock it. He tries to tell himself that it's because he still doesn't trust everyone here, so if Scar needs help then he can run out to do so. He turns back around, and places his stuff on a bench out of the way of the shower head. He quickly turns the water on, and messes with it until he deems it hot enough. Undressing, he hops under the water sighing deeply as it washes off all the sweat and blood still on his skin.

That water is hot, steam filling the smaller room quickly as Grian gets to work lathering his hair with shampoo. He usually would very much not try and get his wings wet, but right now it's a welcome feeling versus what they were previously feeling like. They would be getting wet soon anyways, so it didn't really matter.

He rinsed off, finding some conditioner and repeating the process. After washing his body, he rinses his hair, this time trying to get his wings as wet as possible. Maybe if he can get most of the blood off it'll be easier to preen through. It also had the added benefit of clearing his head a bit. With his wings not so gross feeling, his instincts receded a little bit, Grian sighing in relief.

That didn't make him slow down any though; he wanted to finish up quicker, so he could see Scar again. He rinses off one more time and makes sure he feels clean and well as looked it. The black, brown and blue bruises littering his whole body only confused him for a few seconds, so he will count that as a win!

He turned the water off, grabbing his towel and drying off swiftly. He pulled on his shorts that he had gotten from the earlier room. He left his shirt off, knowing that he would have to tear it to get his wings through, and he'd rather them be clean before he does that. He gathers his stuff and opens the door to be greeted by a damp looking Scar, sitting on the bench across from his door.

A happy chirp left him as he stepped out, his wings sopping and practically dragging on the ground. Scar was dressed in similar clothes to himself, but having chosen blue and orange. Very on brand for him and it makes Grian smile.

“Done so soon?” He spoke, Scar standing with a bounce in his step.

“Of course! You’ll need help with those wings of yours!” He sides up next to Grian, taking his arm and leading them back the way they came. He lets him, it makes his Avian brain happy as well as his heart. Who knew that finding your long lost family would make him never want to leave their side? Not him…They were only apart for less than ten minutes and he missed him. Ugh. Bird stuff.

They walk over to the cubby that Grian had put his shoes in, Scar reaching over and taking his clothes, adding them to the pile. Hopefully when they are done they can just…throw them out. He really doesn't think any of it is salvageable, nor does he really want them to be.

“Come on Birdy, we can go find a small pool to get the rest of the gunk out of these wings!” He smiles. There's a weird sense of urgency Scar has suddenly taken on. He doesn't step far from Grian, moving them both out the door and further into the cave. It's not like Grian wants to complain about Scars sudden want to be near him, hell he's doing the same thing, but it's oddly out of character for the Hero.

It didn't use to be, he needs to remind himself. The Scar of the past used to constantly be around a member of Boatem. Whether that be in their room, or just out and about walking the Tower. He realizes now that it was because they tended to leave him out of the loop for hours at a time, so him hanging around was his way of feeling included.

He wonders how both of them can move on from this, knowing that the other is who they've always been looking for. This can't be very healthy, but he can't find anywhere in himself that cares. They spent so long trying to find the other that they at least deserve some time to be joined at the hip.

With Scars arm in his, they walk around following the soft path. Now with his boots off he can feel the moss better on his feet. It feels nice combined with the rich air contained in the room. He's not sure how Stress managed this, but it was beautiful to look at. The same flowers that have been seen throughout the rest of the building were present here too, but they seemed even bigger in here. Hanging from the ceiling with floating particles drifting around the room.

It felt damp, but not uncomfortably so. Along the edges of their path there were shallow pools collecting water that dripped from the ceiling. The clay surrounded the pools in overlapping circles, small fish and other aquatic life swimming calming.

There were tall leaf-like plants sprouting from the pools, growing so high they practically formed a canopy as Scar and Grian walked. A drop of cool water dripped off of one directly on Grians nose, making him flinch back as Scar laughs at him. He made sure to reach a hand over and slap the stem of one, dropping water over them both making Scar pull them quicker along as they both laughed.

They made it to the main cavern room where there are two large man made pools. They sit side by side, crystal clear water reflecting the walls and ceiling. The vines hung atheistically down boasting large glowing berries, yet they never touched the water. Crawling up the sides of the cavern was creeping, glowing lichen, adding to the ambient glow.

Dotted randomly around were smaller pools, some steaming, others still and seemingly cool. Along the furthest wall Grian saw Keralis in the pool up to his waist. He was goading a reluctant Xisuma, who was sitting near the edge still in his full suit. The foliage made the room oddly ambient, so their voices didn't echo enough for Grian to hear what they were saying.

Either way, Scar pulled them over to the furthest warm pool from the two. It was in a little cove, not out of the way, nor private, but it was cozy. Scar didn't waste a moment before jumping, dropping down onto his backside before putting his feet in and hopping down. At most it was up to his hips, but Grian could see there was a little plateau around the edge to sit on.

“Come on slowpoke, the water isn't getting any cooler.” Grian just notices that his glasses are perched in his hair, as opposed to sitting on his nose. His eyes were a warm orange, instead of blazing. He reached a hand up to Grian, waving it trying to coax Grian in faster. With a faux annoyed chirp, he took Scars hand and sat at the edge with his feet in the water.

It was quite warm, but nothing too hot, so Grian slipped in taking a seat along the plateau. The water was up to his waist, soaking his wings even further. He gave a long, drawn out sigh. The water between the feathers felt great, relieving a lot of the itchy feeling that had started to come back.

He leaned back, dipping them all the way into the water before pulling them back up with no little difficulty. They were heavy when soaked through, but it felt so nice.

“How about I take the worse one, and you start on your other. Then I’ll finish that one up when you can't reach any more?” Scar suggested, pushing on Grians shoulder as he opened his eyes. He didn't even realize he had closed them, weird. Still, he did as instructed. It was a bit hard to turn all the way around, but as long as he kept his knees together with his legs off to the side, it was comfortable enough.

He sat up straight, pulling his wing into his lap and started to card through them with gentle yet firm claws. Already a few feathers gave way, having to pluck them out and lay them off on the side. He hummed happily as Scar also got to work, starting with the primaries and moving upwards.

He didn't even try to hold back contented chirps and coos as they both pulled feathers and grit. The pile on the edge becomes bigger and bigger as red twinged feathers join the others. But his wings feel so much better and lighter as they go. Soon enough, he can't reach behind himself enough to finish his wing. So he coos sadly, flexing it behind himself trusting Scar to pick up where he left off.

“Almost done with this one, Birdy, and then I’ll finish up the other one.” He cups his hands and drops some water over the tops of his wings. He sighs as he feels the warm water run between his feathers and trickle back into the pool. Leaning forward, he brings his arms up and lays his head down.

This is nice. Nice and calm. It was nice to relax after the past few days they’ve had. To be fair, more like the past few years have been rough. Hell, now Grian even realizes that the years before then were also bad. Everyone likes to assume Watcher had his shit together, but taking a look back, he never really did.

“Hey,” Scar started softly pulling his wing a little closer to himself to make sure he got Grians attention.

“Hm?” Was the most eloquent response he could mutter. He heard Scar huff a laugh before continuing to preen.

“If you are going to go back to being lost in your head, could you at least speak it out loud so we are on the same page.” He says, surprising Grian a bit. He noticed? “You've been in there all day, so I feel like I should at least know where you are going.” He plucks a feather that had been bothering Grian greatly, the itch fading.

“What do you mean?” He mumbles, turning his head so that when he opens his eyes he can at least look in the direction of Scar.

“I've been letting you get away with it, hoping that it was just the meeting and waking up early. But you've been spacy all day, so spill.” He says, more mature than Grian remembers. And then with that thought he lets out a groan. These memories are getting right annoying.

“It's…everything…” He says instead, making Scar huff.

“Good place to start, I suppose.” Grian can tell he's smiling, amused at Grians lack of words.

“I just…I don't–” He takes a deep breath in, and slowly lets it out. His wings shake in Scars hands, but he doesn't let the one he's working on down. Instead he just softly pets through it, making sure everything is aligned well. “I feel like two different people now, maybe even three.” He decides on. Scar doesn't respond with anything except a hum, urging him to continue.

“I got all these memories back of a person I no longer am. A person that treated people and the world differently than I do now. We grew up the same way, but he was only a vigilante for a few months and on the streets for around a year. I was out there for at least three years. He had five years to live well, and while he was a good enough guy, he did a lot of things I don't agree with.

What am I supposed to do with that? There's Watcher, and his memories, then me with all mine, and then someone else who is a combination of both? I don't want to be a combination of them…I just want to be me…” He feels a bit choked up putting it in words for Scar. It's an overwhelming feeling, something bubbling up from his stomach and into his chest. He has to take a moment to remind himself to breathe.

It's not even that Watcher was some awful guy. Sure, they made some poor decisions and had different outlook on some people. But that almost makes it worse . Watcher is a Hero through and through, and if he was evil then Grian wouldn't feel bad about wanting to just be himself.

“You are different from how Watcher used to be. Personally, I liked both of you, even if you don't.” He digs his nails gently into the soft down close to Grians back, and scratches. Grian is very sure that if he does that again he might melt into the pool if he's not careful. “If you don't want to change you don't have to! Just let the memories pass over you and be there if you need them, but otherwise just…A different part of you. Not a new part, just different.”

“So many things are different now, I just want to be me.” He breathes near silent.

“You are you. You are Grian, the overly sarcastic white cardinal hybrid who also happens to have had his memory taken from him. You are CuteGuy, the fan favorite sidekick to HotGuy, who is trusted in the city, maybe even more so than his ward. You've made a life for yourself without Watcher, you don't have to give that up.” He hums, moving on to the last of his other wing.

“I feel like I should though. Because Watcher has more Hero experience. Watcher was the number one Hero, and he knows how to talk with the media. He knows how to work a crowd. He knows how to lead.” He's more like HotGuy is now, is what he doesn't say. “I can't both be myself, and also go back to being like him.”

“Well, it was a learned skill right?” Scar asks so calmly, like this is just a casual conversation. Not for the first time, Grian is shocked by Scars competency sometimes.

“What do you mean?” Not fully understanding what he means.

“I wasn't always the way I am not, Grian. You know that.” He laughs, bringing up what Grian didn't even say. “I had to learn to be a leader, had to learn when to speak, when to smile and when to walk away. You don't have to just suddenly change, but you don't have to battle yourself on it either. Think of it as learning from your past. Learning from experiences you didn't even know you had.” He once again digs his nails into Grians back making him sigh and coo happily.

“Things can only get weirder from here Birdy, don't get caught up in the past. We still need to get the rest of our family back.” Resting Grians freshly preened wings against his back once again.

“There's no reason to be held back by stuff you really can't change from the past. Just feel what you feel when you feel it in the moment, no need to dwell on it as to why you feel it. Whether it's a ‘Watcher thing’ or a ‘you thing.’ It's just…a thing.” Scar sits next to Grain, leaning his back over the edge listening to it pop and crack.

That…makes a surprising amount of sense. And it definitely eases a lot of the pressure that had built up in his chest. He didn't have to change, nor did he need change. He can't change the way that his past self treated people or the decisions that he made, but he could make sure that he didn't make the same mistakes.

“Why are you suddenly eloquent?” He mumbles, turning his head back into his arms, smiling.

“Ello what?” He responded, genuine. And that's what broke Grian. It started with a slow giggle that gained some speed until he couldn't help but sit back up with heaving bouts of laughter so mixed in their emotion that the tears streaming down his face could really mean anything. But still, he laughed as he swiped them away.

Soon Scar joined in, the two of them leaning on each other as they laughed for seemingly no reason. Scar pulled him closer, an arm around his shoulder pulling him into his side. Not being able to stop himself, he leans over and wraps his arm around Scar and laughs into a hug.

Scar doesn't hesitate to hold him closer, practically pulling Grian into his lap. They are still giggling like idiots, but holding on to each other with the fear that the other one could disappear at any given moment.

But even with their shared fear, Grian doesn't think there is anywhere else he would rather be right now. He has Scar, and some semblance of a piece of mind. They are safe here, clean and happy and laughing. He knows soon they will have to give this up, but for now he will keep this. And he will keep it close.

Chapter Text

“Room for two more?” A voice spoke right before Grian heard the water break and felt the splash against his side. 

He had previously been dozing a bit against Scar. The water was pleasantly warm and a calmness buzzing through his veins after his wings being preened. He had closed his eyes and leaned his head on Scars shoulder, the man laying his head on his. They just breathed in the sweet smelling air, and basked in the calm, knowing that it wouldn't last forever.

And true to thought, Keralis asked his question and didn't wait for an answer. Grian opened his eyes, but didn't move his head as he watched the excitable half-Hero take a seat in the water across from them. 

“Well sure! It's a big pond, hot tub, thing!” Scar assures, picking his head up but not pushing Grian off. 

“Thank you Sweetface.” He hums back, leaning against the edge and putting his hands behind his head. He still had his sunglasses on, brown hair dripping wet from the pool behind them. His shirt was off, wearing nothing but pink shorts clearly taken from Stress’ extras. 

He heard a sigh from behind them, footsteps betraying Xisuma walking up to them. Grian watched as the Hero walked around the pool and stopped behind Keralis who just leaned back further and smiled up.

“Hello Shashwam, care to join us?” He tried, tilting his head back and forth to music that nobody but himself could hear. 

“I already told you that I can’t. This is too much to take off.” He vaguely gestures to himself, making Grian huff a laugh. Somehow the man was still dressed in his typical Hero armor, his helmet still obscuring his face. He sat down by Keralis but a few feet away from the edge, sitting crisscrossed.

“Come on ‘Suma, at least dip your feet in.” Scar cupped his hand and threw some water up at the Hero. Keralis threw his head back as he laughed at Xisuma, who flinched back as the sprinkle of pool water hit his visor. 

“Very funny, Scar.” He said, wiping his visor off. 

“He raises a great point! Here!” Keralis moved over to face Xisuma. With a mischievous smile on his face Grian watched as he brought his hands up and deftly started to untie the Hero's shoes. He giggled to himself, as if he was doing something evil or realizing that he's won and is getting exactly what he wanted. Grian heard Xisuma sigh, but not stop the excitable man. 

He even leaned down to help him, pulling off his armored shoes and wool socks. Grian held in his laugh at the sight of the man's pink and purple socks with little pineapples printed on them. Keralis didn't hold as much reservation, giggling as Xisumas pulled them off and folded his pants up a bit. 

Finally, he put his feet in the water with a contented sigh. Seeing Xisuma's skin made Grian realize how not human he is. His outfit usually covered all skin, but with his pants rolled up they could all clearly see the bluish purple tint. He also looked like he had claws, but at risk of being seen as weird, Grian really didn't want to stare at his feet for too long. No telling the jokes that Keralis would make.

“There. Are you happy?” Xisuma asked, kicking his legs back and forth, lightly yet purposefully splashing at Scar. 

“Very!” Keralis leaned back.

Xisuma hummed, Grian cooing back. This was a nice moment for just the four of them. Never did he think when he met Keralis at the audition, that he would become this important to everything that he knew. Without his power, and his kindness they wouldn't know half the things they do now. He isn't sure where they would be if he didn't have confirmation about his past…

They all sat in silence for a moment, taking in the warm water and air. It wasn't awkward; at this point Grian wasn't sure that the four of them could have an awkward moment (and not because most moments with Keralis were awkward.) They all had so much history together, now that Grian can remember it. 

Hell, even him and Keralis had a past as vigilantes, he almost regrets being a lone wolf on purpose. Keralis had been nothing but nice to him yet he pushed him, and anyone else who tried to get close, away. Old habits, even those you don't know about, must die hard then…

“I’m glad that Stressy is on our side. This place is very nice.” Keralis suddenly speaks, he smiles while leaning further back until his back pops. 

“You’ll hurt your back doing that.” Xisumas lightly chastised, kicking his feet calmly through the water. “We're lucky that the villains trust Doc, and Doc trusts me.” He leans his head back as he speaks into the air. “When he called me I knew he was our best bet, and I’m glad I trusted him.” 

“What did you guys do once we left?” Scar asked, sounding genuinely curious. Grian slowly turns his head to the Hero, feeling his face drop into an abashed stare. Did this man just ask what they were doing as if they didn't watch Keralis take his pants off? They literally heard Xisumas say something about the plan being called ‘plan SXE’ and to be quite honest, Grian doesn't think he wants to know what ‘plan SXE’ is.

So, he elbows Scar in the stomach. The man lets out a punched out sound as he doubles over, his arms curling over himself. Keralis perked up, a shocked look on his face, but a smile creeping on as well.  

“What was that for...” He breathed through gritted teeth. Drying, but wet hair stringing down over his pain-shut eyes.

“I don't think you wanna know what they did.” He huffs, crossing his arms. He felt his cheeks pinken as he shifted his eyes to glance at Keralis and Xisuma. The former had a look on his face suggesting that he had just been given the best news he had ever heard in his entire life. Grian felt confusion make room next to embarrassment.

“Why?” Scar croaked, finally leaning back up not taking his hands off his possible internal bleeding (or at least that's what he probably thought, the drama king.)

“Xisuma literally called the plan ‘SXE,’ we can take a guess on what they did!” He whisper-yelled at the man, splashing some water at him.

Then suddenly he heard Keralis let out a loud burst of laughter, Grian watched as he too doubled over with his arms across his stomach. He was almost hysterically giggling as Xisuma leaned over and held his face in his hands. 

“Wh-hat do you th-hink we did, Sweetface?” Keralis giggled. Grian felt like he was missing something, but he knew he wasn't the dumb one here for thinking what he was thinking. He squinted his eyes as he looked at the not-yet-Hero with suspicion in his gaze. It just made the man giggle more.

“He did that on purpose, hoping to confuse people.” Xisuma sighs, Keralis laughing even more. He kicked his leg out to push Keralis away from him. “One of the first days I had him as a trainee he came up with this idea that if we ever needed a cover that we needed a plan, and when I told him that wouldn't ever be a thing, he did it anyway. Coming up with plan ‘SXE’ which, granted to popular belief, stands for–”

“Sleep for eXit schEme!” Keralis giggles, moving right back to Xisuma's side. He somehow emphasized each letter that needed to be with just his voice. “No sexy involved, you dirty minded pesky bird! We pretend we were asleep!” 

Grian just blinks. There is no way he is the dirty one here, but he really cannot think of a good way to respond to what he was just told. Looking over to Xisuma, the Hero doesn't seem to know either, just shrugging while shaking his head. Then ever so quietly, Scar started to laugh.

A quiet giggle, gaining Grians attention and making him turn to look at him. His cheeks were flushed a bit, and his eyes squinted with his smile and his laughter picked up speed. He brought his hand up, trying to quiet himself and then the ridiculousness of the situation hit Grian.

Here they were, four dudes in a hot tub, trying to skirt around the possibility of sex having happened. Then it turned out that he was the weird one for thinking so! Grian started to giggle as well, joining Keralis and Scar until all of them were close to doubling over. Even Xisuma was laughing quietly off to the side. 

“B-ut, you were taking your pants off!” Grian shouted, pointing his claw at Keralis accusatively, still laughing. The man raises his hands as if wholly innocent.

“Do you sleep in pants?” He asks, which makes balk. 

“I'm not the weird one here!” He waved his hands generally in Keralis’ direction while turning to Scar. “What did you think they were doing?” 

It takes a moment for Scar to regain his breathing, laughing so hard he almost coughs. When he does he gives a sly look between both Keralis and Grian before taking a breath and speaking with a giggle. 

“I wasn't sure, but not whatever you were thinking!” He dissolves into laughter again and Grian decides he's lost wherever argument this was. He sits back with a huff as crosses his arms, he can't quite wipe the smile from his face or the giggles in his voice off tho. 

“To be fair, I told him how the plan looked, and he said that that would just be a ‘double distraction.’” Xisuma speaks up, smile evident in his voice. 

“Aha! Thank you ‘Suma! At least someone is on my side!” Grian celebrates, splashing water at both Keralis and Scar. 

“It worked though, didn't it! Those creepy robe people didn't suspect a thing!” Keralis splashed back. “They totally bought it.”

“I'm glad they did, or we wouldn't be here.” Xisuma splashes water at Keralis with his foot, the man gasping and pushing him away. 

“Papa K saved the day, spank you very much!” He splashed a bit back.

“We aren't out of the hot water yet…” Grian didn't want to bring down the mood but he felt it relevant to at least mention the fact they still have a lot of work to do. Sadly, it seemed like he was the only one who held that sentiment.

“Well yeah we are in a hot spring Birdy, its hot water.” Scar said with a dumb smile.

“I will strangle you.” Grian snarked back, a little glad that the topic of conversation didn't go that way. But he wasn't going to tell Scar that. 

“I'd like to see you try!” His eyes burned a little bit brighter as he turned to fully face Grian. He had that smirk on his face that suggested that that was a trap, and Grian was his target.

Grian took it anyway. 

He lunged forward, capturing Scars neck in his claws and not squeezing at all. But that didn't mean Scar wasn't going down without a fight. A loud, whiny, fight.

“No! Please! I have so much to live for!” He cried, reaching his hands up and trying to pull at Grians. There was no strength behind it since he wasn't actually struggling, but that didn't stop Grian from laughing and pulling away. Scar took the opportunity to quickly switch their positions, taking Grians hand that was on his throat and twisting it behind Grians back so fast he couldn't even fight back. 

He squawked, shocked, as Scar pulled Grians back against his chest and raised his free hand around Grians throat. He wasn't pressing at all, but also not moving away.  “Oh how the tables have turned!” Scar laughs.

“But wait!” Grian played along, even if he was still reeling from how quickly that all happened. He looked over to see Keralis and Xisuma just watching them mess around with smiles. “ I also have so much to live for!” He cooed.

“Not as much as me!” 

“How would you know? I probably have so much! ” 

“Well so do I!” 

“Couldn't be as much as me!” 

“I beg to differ!” 

“Then beg.”  

“Xisuma,” Scar draws out the last syllable in a truly obnoxious whine. “Grian is being mean to me! Tell him I have more to live for and to give up!” He draws his arm away from Grian a bit, moreso just hugging him now then keeping still. Grian doesn't move either way, kind of comfortable where he is honestly.

“Don't draw me into this.” Xisuma raises his hands up. “Scar helped me with my garden a few months ago, and with the Luck on his side I'd rather not end up on his bad side.” He jokes, as if they all didn't know that Xisuma was the most powerful in the room.

“I'm on the Birds side!” Keralis suddenly spoke up, he raised his fist into the air and shook it as he spoke as if urging them on. “Get him back, I know you can!” 

Grian huffs a laugh and gains a second wind, suddenly he actually wants to fight. But he knows he doesn't have strength on the Hero, so he has to be smarter here. Scar is also laughing behind him, Grian feeling as he takes a breath in to start whining again. Then, Grian sees his chance.

He lets out a truly pitiful cheep, the likes of which he would normally feel mortified to be heard making, but now he feels energized. A small buzzing under his skin and he wants to fly but knows he can't. He puts a frown on his face and widens his eyes so he knows they look glossy. 

Like clockwork, Scar immediately lets go of Grian, instantly turning him around and going to check if he somehow hurt Grian.

“What's wrong?” He asked, worry evident in his voice. It would be very sweet, if Grian wasn't a bastard. As soon as he turned to face Scar, he lunged at the man's face with a maniacal laugh. There was a particularly high-pitched scream emanating from the Hero, that he would adamantly deny later, but Grians hands landed true. One on the man's neck and the other pinching his nose. Scar struggled, but the initial shock had not worn off enough to stop him as Grian used his wings to shove them away from the edge as he dunked the man's head underwater. 

His arms flailed out, the shock of the water knocking the rest of sense into him. He's pretty sure he hears Xisuma shout something, but it's overwhelmed by Keralis’ equally maniacal laughter. Scars grasping hands finally catch Grians shoulders, the man immediately using the leverage to pull himself up out of the water and pull Grian closer. 

As his face broke the water, Grian saw the smile on his face. His glasses had been knocked off, floating somewhere below them so Grian saw that his eyes were a flaring molten orange. He pried Grians hands off if as he laughed, Grian trying to race away but not getting far at all. Something in Grian realized that now the game is on, and he chirped in delight. 

Scar had somehow maneuvered his hands under Grians arms, lifting the bird and throwing him over his shoulder in a surprising display of strength. His wings were back to being soaked, so while he was light naturally, wet wings were adding at least a third to his overall weight. 

Scar started laughing, purposefully sounding as evil as possible, while stepping up on the sitting ledge. Grian saw where this was heading and did not like it one bit! He started to struggle, beating his fists (not hard enough to hurt) against Scars back while kicking his legs out. He tried to wildly flap his wings with the hope all the movement would throw them off balance. 

Sadly, Scar didn't even seem to mind, just readjusting his grip as he walked them out of the small pool and towards the larger, and as Grian knew it, colder pool. He redoubled his effort making Scar laugh harder. 

“Ah ah! You started this, Birdy! I’m just finishing it!” Grian couldn't really see where they were going, but he assumed he was close. 

He hissed in warning, tossing his wing into Scars face to obstruct his view which just made the man laugh harder. 

“Man I hope I somehow, someway, just happen to stumble upon a pool of which I can throw a rabid bird!” He sing-songed, stopping suddenly. Grian drew out a cooing cheep, hoping to throw the same trick at the Hero. “That doesn't work twice!” 

And then Grian was airborne, thrown off of Scars shoulder and tossed like a doll into the large pool. He sheiked on his way, knowing that he was about to be fully submerged in much colder water since he was used to the heat of the last one. But he also won't lie and say he wasn't a little scared of having to swim with wet wings. It's possible, but very taxing. He supposed he did ask for this though. 

And that was his last thought before his back collided with the water, colder even than he was expecting. He held his breath on instinct as he heard the crash come and go becoming muted as his head went under. Much like he was expecting, he dragged down quickly since his wings were already wet. 

He was a little disoriented since he had hit the water with his back, but luckily after a bit of drag he felt his feet touch the bottom. He kicked up, feeling the water rush past his face and in between his feathers. When he finally breathed the top, he took in a lungful of air and released a litany of curses that only birds would understand. Well, birds and Scar it seems who immediately bent over laughing at the edge of the pool. 

Grian doesn't know how Scar can understand himself so well when he speaks Avian, he doesn't have any memories of himself ever sitting him down and teaching him, but he finds he doesn't mind. He wades over with no little effort, slowly getting closer to Scar as the man laughs to his heart's content. 

Past him Grian sees Keralis step out of the small pool, reaching a hand down to help Xisuma up. He watches as Xisuma takes it, drawing his eyes away realizing he's close enough to Scar to launch his new plan. This plan is much like his old plan in which he looks up at the unassuming man, currently hunched over laughing happily with his eyes closed, and suddenly launching himself up to grab the man's wrist. In this situation, the use of his wings in the water is helpful, flapping them down hard to create enough lift where he can reach the Hero.

It works and pulls the man back down with him with a shout. His eyes snap open as his feet lose contact with the ground, and he becomes acquainted with the pool, much like Grian. He comes up much faster, spitting water out and breathing heavily, not having been expecting the sudden dip. 

Grian scrambles, suddenly feeling every gained kilo as he squabbles for purchase on the hard lip of the pool, hoping to pull himself out and run. He chirps in frustration and he can't seem to get enough momentum this time around to pull himself out. 

“Oh no you don't!” Scar shouts, Grian feeling a hand wrap around his waist pulling him away from the ledge. 

“No!” He laughs, tuning his focus to night flight Scar.

“Yes!” Scar says back, pulling them further to the center. Grian feels his energy waning, realizing that he wasted a lot on swimming with his wings. But he doesn't want to go out a quitter! So with his last burst of effort he leans back as close to Scars ear as he can and just cheeps as annoyingly as possible making the man take one of the arms around Grians waist away. When goes to bring it up to push Grians face away, he turns and (gently but with force) sinks his teeth into the man's arm. 

Scar yells, dropping his other hand to try and pry Grian off. He's already latched on though, wrapping his arms around Scars and twisting so he can wrap his legs around Scars waist. His teeth aren't super sharp, but they are more so than an average humans. Still, he makes sure he isn't actually hurting Scar. He's still so completely caught off guard that he's just treading water, starting and stopping his sentences, not quite sure where to go from here. Perfect, just what Grian wanted!

“Dad!” Scar draws out, again, much to whiny. “Grians biting me!” That's not what Grian wanted! Last thing he needed was to get in trouble with Xisuma for playing dirty.

“No biting Grian, it's against the rules of sparring unless it's part of your power!” He says from the edge of the pool, stating the whole rule despite its irrelevance. Groaning, Grian spits out Scars arm, the Hero making a disgusted face which Grian ignores.

“I’m playing by street rules! It's not my fault he's dumb and doesn't know them!” Grian throws back, knowing that he's being just as annoying but he's having fun so he doesn't really care. He's pretty sure he hears the older Hero sigh, Keralis snickering at his side. 

“Be that as it may–”

“Hey!”

“No biting!” He finishes, his face in his hands.

“Street rules!” Grian shouts back, biting Scar again. The Hero shouts in faux pain, thrashing around in the water trying to pull Grian off. 

“He's still biting! Do birds have rabies? Am I going to get rabies?” Scar yells, sounding almost genuinely scared of getting rabies.

“Bird rabies?” Xisuma says slowly back, as if disbelieving Scars words. 

“Mhm, yes, Babies, very serious.” Keralis hums back, stroking his chin. Grian unlatches from Scars arm just to throw his head back with an incredulous laugh at Xisuma's pure confusion at what Keralis just said.  

“What.” Is all the older Hero can respond with and it doesn't even sound like a question. Just a statement of bewilderment. 

“I'd call that a draw!” Keralis ignores, clapping Xisuma on the back. Grian looks back to Scar, the water made his hair plaster to his skin, drops dripping down his temple. 

“If you don't take me back to the edge I’ll sink.” He says matter of factly, dropping Scars arm, letting him start using his arms to help them both stay afloat. Scar rolled his eyes with a smile, slowly starting to swim over to the edge. 

“Maybe I should, after what you pulled! You almost drowned me!” He griped, helping Grian turn around and try and lift him up. There wasn't much help he could offer though without his feet touching the ground. Fortunately, Keralis and Xisuma came over and pulled him out, Grian flopping over with heavy feathers. 

He groaned, trying to shake them out with little luck. Maybe he shouldn't have started a fight in water, somewhere where he has quite the disadvantage. He doesn't regret it though, seeing Scar pull himself out of the pool with Xisuma's help, a smile on his face. 

“Now we have to preen you again! You got them soaked through!” Scar chastised. Keralis comes over and hands him a towel. He pulls it around his shoulders with a slight shiver, the cool pool not mixing with the, what used to be warm air, but now it's cold against his skin. Grian feels himself shiver back and Keralis hands him two towels, looking all too smug, handing him more than one. 

“You look like a wet fish.” He smiles, making Grian bark a surprised laugh. He was not expecting that and it makes him giggle. He takes the towels with no wit and starts to wring his wings out. The one towel ends up almost just as soaked, but his wings are better now. Less heavy that is, so he wraps the other towel around his shoulders too, pulling it closer for warmth as he stands up.

“Aren't all fish wet?” Xisuma suddenly says, making all of them turn to look. He looks between them all and Grian feels the smile spread on his cheeks as everyone, including himself, busts out laughing. “What?” He says, only making them laugh more. 

He doesn't know why it was so funny. Maybe it was the way that the older Hero just sounded so innocent and curious. Or maybe they were all just in a silly, relaxed mood. Whatever it was, it felt light and nice. Scar coming to his side and knocking their shoulders together while laughing. Keralis did much the same to Xisuma, the man still looking confused but nonetheless following them as they started walking back to get dry clothes. 

They all went separate ways to change quickly, meeting back up outside the door. They kept looking at each other and giggling again, and Grian doesn't think he's ever had this.  

It's not true. He had several, several memories now telling him differently. But before. Before he knew who he actually was, he never had something like this. He has friends now. He hadn't had friends in so long, not since Mumbo, Pearl and Impulse disappeared. 

He looks up at Scar, the man on some random rant about something irrelevant, his glasses were still missing, nobody bothered to dive down and find them. Hopefully Etho wasn't planning on getting those back. He suddenly turned to look at Grian, his rant ending and a smile replacing his features. 

Then suddenly the quietness is slain when a loud rumble emanates from Grians stomach. Everyone turns to stare at him, Grian feeling his cheeks flush as he brings his arms around his stomach. Now that he thought about it, it had been quite a while since they've eaten anything. Well before they got captured yesterday at least. Healing from a healer tends to help with hunger but it doesn't solve the issue, obviously.

“Hungry Birdy?” Keralis smiles.

“Damn now that you mention it, I’m starving.” Scar realizes, running a hand through his hair.

“Well, good thing Stress told me where the kitchen is! She said there would already be stuff made there.” Keralis takes the lead, opening the door for them and bowing dramatically as they walk through. 

Last time Grian walked through these halls, he didn't remember the trip there. His mind was too full to pay attention to any of the details of the hallways, stairs, or even how long it even took to get there. He assumes they had to have taken an elevator or something since the cave was quite tall. 

After they had all come through Keralis came through last, closing the unassuming door behind himself. Looking at it, Grian, would never think that behind it was a giant cavern with natural hot springs (or well, as natural as it could get with whatever Stress’ influence over it had been.)

Keralis led them away from the door, the hall much like every hall that he had been in before around here. Filled with flowers and vines and pollen that never seemed to go in his nose, without Stress with him though Keralis didn't seem to be fairing as well. He sneezed three times in a row before complaining, which had to be a record for him. Scar said that his Luck wasn't transferable, but with Grian walking next to him and neither of them having a problem with the pollen he feels like maybe they should really test that again. Not that he is complaining, honestly he's glad he is not Keralis right now, the poor man seems to be the only one with a problem since Xisuma wore his helmet. 

He led them over to a large set of stairs, the pathway for once very clear from foliage. The carpet was magenta pink though, which made Grian start to sense a theme, or at least Stress’ favorite color. It didn't take them long to reach the top, Keralis’ chatter filling the silence, a sneeze briefly interrupting him every once and a while.

“It's a bit after lunch, I wonder if anyone will be there.” Xisuma wondered out loud, Keralis ceasing his talking easily. 

“I hope so! I want to see what xB has learned about his powers like me.” Keralis takes a left turn, briefly stumbling on a vine he didn't see. “It's not too far now…Here!”

Like his words suggested, there was an open concept kitchen just past one more right turn. It was a fairly large room, a full kitchen in the corner with an island giving it a little bit of cut off from the rest of the space. There were a few smaller tables against the walls, holding four people max, and one large table in the very center holding at most twenty.

Not for the first time, Grian wondered why Stress had so much space here. Did she get mass visitors this often that she had to have this much space ready or did she just like it? Grian didn't know, but what he did know was that he was starving and Beef was in the kitchen cooking something that smelled delicious .

He also noticed that there were a few more groups dotting around either at the smaller tables or at the bigger one. Keralis immediately rushed to xB who was perched at one of the bar seats at the island, the rest of them following behind. 

“Princess!” He yelled, hugging the quiet man from behind. xB didn't even flinch, clearly still very used to Keralis’ actions, just hugging him back with a small greeting and pushing him into the seat beside himself.

They immediately started talking to each other as if nobody else in the room existed, Scar, Grian and Xisuma sitting at the other bar chairs. Grian cheaped loudly, gaining the attention of Beef who had his back turned to them leaning over the stove. 

He twists around still holding up his spatula with wide eyes, apparently being scared by the sound. Grian huffs a laugh, the man was wearing an apron printed with fake blood splatters on it. 

“When did you guys get here!” His face morphs into a smile upon realizing who basically whistled at him. Grian watches as he scans over their faces, landing on Scars eyes but trying not to make a big deal about. (If he noticed Scars hand twitch up, as if to push his glasses up but found none there, he didn't say anything.)

“A few seconds ago! How long have you been cooking for?” Grian smiles back kindly, tilting his head to try and take a peek behind the man to catch a glance at what he was making. Beef throws his head back with a full laugh. 

“You guys go missing for a whole day and you don't even say ‘hi’ to me! All you want is my food!” He laughs, turning back around.

“No! Hello, Beef we missed you! Now will you cook for me?” Grian smiles back. The man laughs again, shaking his head while taking the pan he was cooking off the stove and to the side counter. He plated something before turning around and handing it off to xB.

Grian chirped sadly, Scar trying and failing to hide a laugh as Beef sent them both a self satisfied smile. 

“Thank you for my omelet, which I asked for, and you made for me, and nobody else.” xB responds, Keralis taking his fork and eating some off of his plate. xB doesn't stop him and just eats as well while looking at Grian. 

“Calm down Birdy, I’ll make you one too.” Beef amends, already pulling out more eggs from the fridge. And just like that, Grians smile returns after getting his way without having to grovel at all! “Would you like one too, Scar?”

“Oh! Um, yes please!” Scar responds, seemingly not expecting to be asked. The sounds of a light chuckle and cracking eggs came from the hero hunched over the stove. Grian just watched as he cooked, the conversation dying out. Well, except for Keralis and xB who seemed to be fine in their own world. 

Now that Grian thought about it, it had probably been a while since they last saw each other. Since xB had been picked up by Beef, Grian hadn't really seen him around. He wouldn't have seen Keralis either if he didn't happen to be in Xisuma's room. 

It made sense that the two had been split up, since their powers were so highly codependent, they wouldn't learn to improve their powers if they stayed practicing together. It sucks that they had to be split though. Grian came close to being split up from Pearl and just decided to collaboratively kidnap her. 

He looks over to the two, they seem happy enough. Keralis is leading the conversation as xB just seems to listen, which to be fair, seems normal when talking to Keralis. Xisuma seems to also be listening to him, leaning on the counter just watching the two interact. 

It makes Grian think about how close those two had gotten again. Like sure, he and Scar got along way quicker than probably anyone would've thought. But there was lore there. There was a whole half a decade of memories missing, but still bouncing around in his brain. Thinking about it now it all made so much sense. 

He had known Scar for years, and somewhere in his being he had known it and felt it. His instincts had felt safe around Scar from the beginning even when he himself didn't even like his Avian instincts. All those times he had fought with Scar when he was a vigilante had just been him doing what he had to do to live another day free. They both had a job to do, and it had been fun to push HotGuy’s button (and it still is).

That man sat next to him now, his hair drying in awkward angles and he didn't even know it. Grian could fix it, but he wont. He had always missed this and didn't even know it.

His thoughts were interrupted when two plates were set down, one in front of him and another in front of Scar. Looking down he was greeted by a beautifully made omelet smothered in Avian friendly greens and cheese. His mouth watered as his stomach growled and he couldn't even find it in himself to be embarrassed. 

He's pretty sure he heard Scar have a similar reaction as they picked up their forks and dug in. Beef gave a hearty chuckle, turning around one more time and grabbed another plate setting it in front of Keralis and xB to supplement for what Keralis had stolen. Beef had finally leaned over his own food as well, explaining to Xisuma that he made one for him as well, but he will bag it up for when he's alone. 

“I might be dramatic but I think this is the best omelet I've ever had.” Grian said seriously after swallowing a much too large bite. 

“I’m with Pesky Bird, full d– dram– a– tics.” He flubbed through, nodding his head in solidarity with Grian. 

“Well thank you!” Beef laughed, taking the cleared plates from xB and Keralis and putting them in the dishwasher. Taking a few more moments, both Grian and Scar shoved the rest of their food down their throats too. Beef came back and replaced their plates with bottles of water and Grian distinctly felt a little like a child being fed lunch. 

Either way, he immediately downed the whole bottle, much like Scar. It was then that Xisuma turned to them with an inquisitive tilt to his head. 

“When was the last time you ate or drank anything?” He asked. A good question that Grian didn't really think had a correct answer. Scar immediately turned to look at him with wide eyes, raising a hand and very obviously (at least to Grain, Scar certainly thought he was being sly) was trying to convince Grian to not answer the question. 

Looking at Xisuma Grian realized that this was a trap. It had been well over 24 hours since they had eaten, but since they were healed by Poppy they didn't even realize it until now. But looking between the two, Grian didn't know how to answer the question in a way that didn't sound like a lie…

“How upset would you be if we said at least 24 hours…?” He tried, immediately regretting it as Scar turned to face him with a look of horror. Xisuma stood up silently and made his way around the center island and back to the fridge. 

“What?” He nervously laughed as Scar groaned loudly flopping over the counter.

“Uh-oh!” Beef started laughing. “You've activated Dad-suma!” The man came around and took the recently vacated seat next to Scar. Said Hero was still dramatically lamenting on the counter, as Xisuma came back holding a carton of orange juice along with other snacks. 

“You should have said something sooner you two! Do you know how dangerous it is to use a healer to get rid of hunger pains? You need more nutrients than just an omelet, though that is a good start.” He explained, pouring them glasses and sliding them over. He then passed them both (or well, neatly stacked them by Scar as he groaned) some cheese sticks, assorted fresh fruit, yogurts and crackers. 

“This will bring your energies back up especially for Scar since he uses so much of it with his power.” He said, pushing the snacks closer to them. 

“How do you expect us to eat all of this?” Grian said, immediately chugging the orange juice, it being his favorite. 

“At least try to eat some of it, please.” He nodded, Scar still whining against the counter top until Xisumas snapped his fingers. “Scar.” Is all he chided, yet Scar swiftly lifted his head to grab his glass.Grian was not complaining really. It was nice to have someone care enough, plus free food is free food. Scar did complain but stopped when looking at the deadpan stare that Xisuma was giving him.

The other three in the room finally broke into a laugh at Grian and Scar plight, Beef having the best time seemingly. Grian looked at them with a smile of his own breaking out, this is also nice. 

He suddenly remembered a few other times that Xisuma acted a little too much like a mother hen in the past. The Hero he knew back then was more quiet then the one he knows now, which seems hard to beat since this StarVoid is also very quiet. He wonders if all that time he and Scar had spent alone broke him out of his shell a bit.

Whatever it was, it was nice to have all of them hanging out. They didn't really do it as Heroes back then it seemed like. Boatem seemed to only hang out with each other, at least until Scar forced them to talk with more people. The memories he's getting from back then are confusing because he feels like he was upset at Scar for it even though now, in the present, he just feels upset at himself for feeling upset back then. And with that he leaves that train of thought before he gets another headache. 

It's easy to do when he notices movement past Scar and Beef at the entrance of the kitchen. The whole room quiets as everyone else seemed to notice as well, everyone turning their heads to see the newcomer. 

Leaning back a little in his chair to look past Scar, Grian is greeted by the sight of a mostly green clad person. If Grian remembers correctly their name is Iskall, and they are standing in the doorway scanning the room. They have their hands in their pockets and shoulders relaxed, Grians pretty sure this is the longest he's seen this person without scowling. 

It was a short lived realization because as soon as their eyes landed on the group sitting at the island, the grimace came back. Their mechanical like, not dissimilar to Docs, dimmed and brightened as it scanned their faces ultimately landing on Scar. 

Somehow, it felt like the temperature in the room raised several degrees and tension bled into the air. Grian shifted in his seat, looking to the others in the room, mostly the villains, to gauge whether this was something that they should worry about. 

They all seemed just as confused at the reaction, Wels and Sausage just turning back around to continue their conservation. Clearly they didn't know what was going on either… Looking back to the villain, Grian watches quietly as they square their shoulders and make their way into the kitchen. 

Grian will admit he's at a bit of a loss, not really sure what was going on here. The other Heroes in the room were watching with skilled eyes every move the villain did while trying themselves to not come off as threatening. Xisuma stayed leaning over the counter as the villain came over to his side, bypassing him and heading for the fridge.

None of them said anything as they passed, or, well, Keralis just went back to talking with xB. Apparently he wasn’t catching the weird vibes that the rest of them were. Then again, it seemed to him that Scar wasn't catching it either.

Whether the man felt too awkward being stared at, or was genuinely curious, Grian would never know. But suddenly, Grians partner stood up with a put on loud stretch. Lifting his hands over his head and yawning louder than necessary causing the rest of the eyes in the room to look at him. He watched at the dimmer orange in his uncovered eyes roared to life, Grian tried to grab him before he started walking away, but was too late. 

The man plastered a wide smile on his face and a walking gait that suggested that he was the most important in the room. Suddenly Grian was hit with what just happened, as it was what he used to witness just a week ago. 

HotGuy now made his way around the island and sided up next to Xisuma, the latter Hero understanding what was happening and just rolling his head in disappointment. Scar just smiled wider and leaned his backside on the counter, his back facing Grian, but fully facing Iskall. 

Said villain had just opened the fridge and pulled out a bottle of water before turning around to face the Hero. They didn't look particularly taken aback, but they didn't scowl so Grian would consider it a win. 

“I don't think I've seen you around before! But the other villains seem to know you, so do I get the pleasure of knowing your villain persona?” HotGuy smiled, laying it on pretty thick. Clearly Scar was trying to get to the bottom of the animosity that Iskall seemed to have for him. If Grian had to guess, Scar is using his HotGuy personality knowing that that's the guy people would have beef with. 

But to be honest, the scowl that overtakes Iskall’s face shows that HotGuy probably wasn't the best angle to tackle this with. 

“You don't recognize me huh?” They all but slam their bottle on the counter space next to the fridge, Xisuma taking this time to step off to the side to watch. He didn't take a seat though, knowing that if something were to happen he would be the first to do something. 

Grian thought about getting up too, just in case, but he really didn't want this to escalate. He moved a seat over into Scars empty one so that he could now see Scars face, as well as Iskalls. And to be honest seeing that stupidly over arrogant smile on Scars face pissed Grian off as well. Whatever Iskall was mad at Scar for, Grian decides to let it play out. 

“Can't say that I do.” HotGuy moves his head to the side as if acting like he was thinking about it. “Did we fight before, or something?” A growl sounded from the villain, real and animalistic in a way a human couldn't produce. Suddenly, this was getting interesting and maybe Scar was on to something. 

“Or something…” They responded. “Do you always just shoot people in the eye and then forget?” At this point Keralis and xB had caught on that something was happening and were listening. No longer feeling the presence behind him, Grian turned and noticed that everyone else in the room had left. Maybe they were going to get Stress? He hopped not, this was getting interesting. 

“I can't say that I do, but when I do I'd remember it.” He lifted his hand to check his nails. Truly, this performance was Grian levels of dickery and he couldn't be prouder, while also not being able to shake the feeling of wondering what angle Scar was playing at. 

“I'm sure you do…” Iskall said, taking a deep breath and letting out a ring of smoke upon exhaling. Grian heard as the three sitting next to him gasped in shock, but he didn't know why. And Scar didn't seem to see, still busy checking his nails. 

“Maybe you are thinking of someone else then? I don't want us to be butting heads as long as Stress is giving us hos– spitality.” He cleared his throat before speaking again. “Maybe we can help each other! You tell me what your villain name is, or was, and I’ll help you figure out who you are thinking of.” He offered, dropping his hand as if his suggestion was a gift. Grian couldn't help rolling his eyes. 

“Oh you are so full of shit!” The villain bursts out in a laugh. “How about this, I’ll tell you my name if you promise me a,” they pause, eyes shifting to look over at Xisuma. The Hero looks forcibly relaxed but very much watching to make sure Scar doesn't go too far. “A sparring match, just you and me.” And suddenly their eyes are on Grian. 

“Of course! I would never turn down a good spar with a formidable opponent.” Scar starts and Grian knows he's lying. He has no idea what Iskall is capable of, yet he still says yes to a spar? Xisuma seems to have the same reservations. 

“Hold on here now, we shouldn't say yes to something like that without knowing who you are.” He says, crossing his arms over his chest. 

“I think the number one Hero can make his own decisions. He did back then, and he can now.” They say flipanty back, eyes now trained on Scar. To his credit, Scar doesn't back down. The man is very trained in situations like this, and his own past being thrown in his face, whether he knows it or not, is not going to shake him very much, Grian knows. 

“Oh! How about we make an afternoon out of it.” Keralis chimes in, shocking the others, almost forgetting that he was even there. “We can all spar with each other, and mediate each other as well!” Before any of them can even intervene, Iskall jumps on the opportunity. 

“Sounds good to me, what do you say, Tycoon?” They put their hand out with a sly looking smile that Grian doesn't like the look of at all. But none of them even have the chance to talk about it before Scar gabs their hand with a hearty laugh, completely dismissing the use of his old name. 

“Sounds good to me…?” Scar smiles back, waiting for their name to fill in the blank.

“Dragon Witch, is what they called me.” Smoke curled from their lips as they spoke, and suddenly everyone in the room felt the temperature curl even higher. Scar continued to shake their hand, but Grian watched as his face went pallor in color. An almost imperceivable glance into the man behind HotGuy as his smile faltered only for a moment. If it was anyone else, they wouldn't have noticed, but Grian did .

Well, this is going to be very interesting.

Chapter Text

“So… Dragon Witch huh?” Grian asks, breaking the weird silence that filled the small changing stall that they were in. He was sitting on a bench fiddling with his wings since he had already changed. 

At some point after the deal had been made in the kitchen, they had been whisked away to Stress’ training room. She was actucally there herself, lashing her vines out at bottles cracking them like a whip. Upon seeing that the group was being led in by Iskall a look crossed her face that Grian couldn't really decipher, but she then led them all to changing stalls with some more suitable work out clothes for them to change into. 

She didn't have much to say, just some small talk before dropping them off then disappearing. If Grian had to guess, he would say that her making a beeline back to Iskall maybe was the reason for her change in typical demeanor.

Not that she was the only one to come off differently in light of recent events.. Ever since Iskall said their villain name, the vibe between Xisuma, Scar and them had changed. 

“I remember the fight we had with DW, a few years ago…” Grian supplied still lazily preening his wings. That fight was a gruesome sight honestly, Scar had almost died if he remembered correctly. “I asked you about it when you woke me up from that one nightmare about it, remember?” 

Scar stays quiet as he takes his shirt off, the three giant slashes that run from his back and around his waist speaking for themselves. 

“I do remember that, didn't know it was that memory though. It was quite a dumb thing I did, taking the hit for you.” He laughed lightly, and Grian can't help but feel just slightly offended.

“Rude! I’ll have you know I’d take a hit for me.” He smiles cheekily. 

“You didn't have such a good reaction last time.” He laughs back. When Stress led them to the changing rooms, she had handed Scar another pair of sunglasses when she noticed his were gone. Scar didn't even hesitate to take them, Grian watched as he just put them on. 

Grian tilts his head in confusion before the memory finally surfaces. He remembers yelling at Scar while he was in a hospital bed. Remembers how angry he was at Scar for jumping in front of him and taking the hit. Remembers how Scar just took the reprimanding with tired eyes and a faint smile.

“Well last time I was a dick so.” He says, startling a laugh out of Scar. He turns to face Grian again and his smile seems more genuine. Scooting over, he makes room for Scar to sit next to him. 

“Well I wouldn't put it like that, ” He takes a seat. “But it was kinda dumb though. It was a split second decision where I just jumped in and fired an arrow. Very much a newbie move to make.” He nods solemnly, speaking like he was defending his actions, as if he was about to hear another lecture. 

He keeps looking over at him, and Grian isn't quite sure what to make of his hesitancy to talk to him. 

“Why is Iskall freaking you out? Not used to people not liking you, HotGuy?” He bumps their shoulders together jokingly hoping to keep the atmosphere light. He can take a guess on why he's so upset, but he would rather not speculate. 

“As if there's anyone who doesn't like me!” He smiles blindingly, waving his hand through the air as if that was never an issue. “It's just…DW hasn't been seen for years and nobody really knew why. Guess we figured it out.” He grimaced. 

To be honest, Grian is a little surprised by it as well. While he wasn't waiting around for DW to show up again (up until a few days ago he didn't even remember them) this injury was still jarring. Most every injury can be healed, including optical stuff. Grian had watched the injury take place and knew it was something relatively easy to heal as long as you had some potions or a healer. 

But for some reason Iskalls didn't…

He supposed that Doc also had prosthetics but…nobody had ever publicly asked questions on that. To the media, he had never not had them, so there was no reason to air something like that out. That being said it would probably also be rude to ask why Iskalls never healed either.

This whole situation has gotten Scar to act weird. From the very moment that Iskall had targeted Scar the Hero started to retreat in on himself. It was as if the presence of Iskall made Scar uncomfortable, and Grian didn't quite understand why.

Sure there was some history there but… wouldn't that just fall under hazards of the job? Not to sound blunt but… surely something else had to be going on here right?

Grian notices the shift in Scars personality when suddenly someone knocks on the door. He straightens his back and his smile that much more forced. It's nice to know that he was more relaxed around Grian, but there's clearly something that Scar isn't telling him. Interesting…

“You lot ready ta get goin’?” Stress voices from behind the door, Scar gets up with a sigh. Grian decided to follow behind, watching as he opens the small bathroom-esq door. Stress was standing behind with little flowers growing at her feet, nervously shifting from foot to foot. 

“Ready ta ‘ave some fun?” She smiles, turning and walking them back to the main training area. 

“Oh you know it!” Scar starts stretching his hands above his head. “I haven't had a real good training session in so long!” There's something nervous in the lilt of his voice that Grian can't quite get over. 

Still, Scar stretches obnoxiously, purposefully bulging his muscles out and trying to look bigger than he is. Grian just shakes his head, amused but trying not to be at Scar, rather, HotGuys put-on brava.

Stress leads them to a circular room lined with thick, magenta mats. There's a few doors that shoot off, directly across from them there's a dark blue one with a large viewing window next to it. It gives Grian bad vibes, reminding him of his audition room.

It's not terribly tall, but definitely enough room if he wanted to use flight as an evasion tactic. Along a portion of the wall, a wide range of weapons line the perimeter. Benches and exercise equipment are scattered around as well, but they are led past and straight to the middle.

There's already a few people in the room standing near the center. It looks like a few people heard of this 'fight' going down and decided they'd like to watch. Of course Iskall, Xisuma, and Keralis were already there, but so was Beef, xB, Poppy and Zed all of them in a circle chatting with each other. 

The air was stilted as they spoke conversationally, Keralis taking up the challenge of keeping the conversation going anyways. Grian took the opportunity to size up Iskall, trying to gauge what their deal was. 

They were also now dressed in lighter work out clothes, staying within their whole dark greens and grays color scheme. They had their arms crossed over their chest and had a pleasantly smooth smile while listening to Keralis ramble about something or another.  But Grian watched it fall, turning into a scowl as they caught sight of him and Scar walking over.

This grudge must be a bit more serious than Grian was expecting it to be… Honestly he feels a bit dumb for not figuring it out sooner. Scar must have, his brilliant smile straining as they join them all. Grians heart does a little flutter with anxiety realizing that this isn't just a little spar…

Iskall was shot in the eye by Tycoon in the one fight years ago, and clearly they still hold the grudge. It makes Grian suddenly understand why Scar is also acting so weird about it, because Grian doesn't like it when Heroes hurt villains too.

Hes reluctant to just blame everything on Scar being uncomfortable with Iskall though. A part of Grian, the one that Scar was probably worried about, is sure that Heroes rarely see the… damages… their actions produce. 

Something inside Grian twists uncomfortably. He looks over the people in the room and the atmosphere just feels weird and he doesn't know what to make of it. He looks over Scar, noticing how he keeps clenching and unclenching his hands. He's nervous.

“Alright! I’m not sure ‘ow you lot do tings, but here we have a few trainin’ rules.” Stress speaks up, elbowing Iskall in the side making them drop their arms. 

“We already went over it with Sisuma, pretty much the same rules: no actual damage, pull punches, no playing dirty, and have fun.” Iskall iterated, rolling their eyes as they said the last part. 

Grian was starting to get increasingly not as okay with this anymore. Xisuma seemed to clock it from the beginning as he pulled Scar to the side after Stress nodded. Clearly Iskall was just itching to fight and Scar was just going to let them. Grian followed behind, ready to give his input too, next to Xisumas.

“Scar, why are you doing this?” He asked, Scar reaching over and picking up a bow off the wall. He weighted it, plucking the string a few times before deeming it good enough and picking up a quiver of arrows. 

“It's just a spar.” He shrugs. “Besides! We all could use a good distraction from everything l, I think. Iskall asked to spar, so this is as good as any!” He smiles, turning to look at them both. Grian has no idea how he ever thought that HotGuy was ever a genuine person as he looks at the overcompensating confidence that Scars body language was practically screaming ‘please just believe me.’

While Grian would love to tell Scar that if he's looking for a spar, anyone else would very willingly step in, but…there's something else in Grian that wants to just let him go. He doesn't want Scar to get hurt ever, but something resulting from his years as a vigilante, wants a Hero to feel some consequences. They've hurt so many people using such excessive force… But he forces himself to shake his head. 

At the end of the day, what's done is done and he would rather Scar didn't walk into a fight. 

“Scar, we're not stupid and most of the time, neither are you.”

“Hey-”

“We all know that Iskall is looking to settle some score, and you feel guilty. You don't have to do this if you are uncomfortable.” He sighs, turning to look over his shoulder at Iskall. Stress seems to also be giving them a talking too. It looked heated, but he couldn't hear what they were saying. The rest of the spectators moved to a little seating area just outside of the circle, out of the way. 

“What? No! This is just a spar, guys! Calm down, I think as number one Hero I’d be able to hold my own here.” He laughs waving them off as he just passes by Grian and in the circle. And he almost reaches out to grab him, a shot of anger replaces the anxiety for a moment,, fluffing up Grians wings at the blatant flippant disregard Scar just treated him too. An annoyed chitter sounds from his throat as he prepares to give him a piece of his wing.

But Xisuma puts a hand on his shoulder just as he's about to speak his mind, getting his attention away from Scar and up to his helmet. The Hero just shakes his head. 

“I don't know what's running through his head, but we should let him figure this out I think.” Gently he guided Grian over to the side with the other people sitting, but neither of them sat. They watched as Iskall and Scar looked at each other from across the circle.

“So… why’d you call both of us?” Poppy asked quietly, making Grian look over at him. Xisuma looked over his shoulder too, but Stress beat him to the punch.

“You neva know with these tings!” She said almost too joyously. She sent a look at Zed's way, suggesting that she invited him and then Xisuma invited Oli. Ironic, neither of them trusted their sides to keep it civil. By the look of things though, it was possibly a smart assessment. 

“Alright lets get this ova wif! Play nice fellas!” She shouted, marking the beginning of the match. 

Immediately they started to dance around each other, just following a circular path around the mats without either going for a hit. Scar didn't even reach to bring his bow over his head, just keeping his center low and fists clenched up. 

Iskall had already decided to bring out their claws, a show of their power that hasn't been seen in a long time. Grian felt his heart slightly jump at the sight, remembering what those claws did the last time he saw them.

Looking back, Grian still feels nauseous at the look of Scar on the pavement after he had been swiped. It didn't make sense then and it doesn't make sense now on why Scar took the hit. Sure Grian would've definitely gotten nicked a bit, but most certainly he would have just been sore for a bit. Scar had almost died . 

He knows though that Scar had already been given that particular lecture. And now a small part of himself wanted to agree with his past. It was dumb and stupid what Scar did, and he was right, it was a rookie move. But now Grian has years of street experience. Years as a vigilante who plays dirty and rough, fast and loose. Scar did what he thought was right to protect someone he loved, even if past-him didn't know it. Now all they were left with were deep scars and a pissed off dragon shifter. 

“I don't have much to work with here!” He hears Scar laugh, “I’m sure you don't want me to fire arrows at the mats and ceiling, just making sure they don't actually hit you.” He jokes, missing the mark making Grian cringe. Is he really trying to talk in an atmosphere this tense?

“You didn't seem to mind shooting me before.” Iskall fired back, not quite with bite. And it was suddenly like you could hear a pin drop in the room. If anyone had doubts on this being personal, they were all on the same page now. Keralis had stopped his idle chatter with xB, and now Zed had stood up to stand next to Xisuma and Stress. 

“That was a long time ago…” Scar countered having to finally jump back because Iskall finally went in for a swipe attack. Scar caught the arm easily, twisting them around and kicking Iskalls back so they ended up switching sides and sending Iskalls stumbinging forwards. 

When they finally got their footing back, Grian watched as they looked over their shoulder back at Scar. He swears he could see smoke curling in the air, but couldn't be sure. They take a small breather, just watching Scar from over their shoulder before they finally all but growl at him.

“Not long enough.” They turned back around and sped towards Scar, initiating an actual hand to hand fight.

Grian watched, shocked that Scar still hadn't pulled his bow over his shoulder. He will admit though that he had never seen Scar fight this long in close quarters. It wasn't a secret to know that his main was distance fighting, especially since most people knew him to have the sharp shooting power. But here he was expertly dodging flying fists, that were definitely not being pulled, evading kicks as well. He supposes that his Luck would of course also work in this scenario. There isn't really anything Scar couldn't do if he used his power…

That thought was immediately challenged when Scar finally went flying down to the mat as Iskall landed a solid punch to the cheek. Both Grian and Scar sucked in a breath through their teeth, knowing that it'll bruise. Still, the Hero popped right back up in time to get behind an opportunistic punch down. He kicked Iskalls legs out, but didn't get away in time to avoid getting pulled down with them.

And with that, they were suddenly wrestling on the ground, battling for the top based on strength alone. That being said, punches were still being thrown left and right, some dodged some not. Honestly now Grian was just confused at when and where Scars power helped and when it didn't. 

“You can still sure pack a punch with that power!” Scar says, finally kicking Iskall away enough to stand up wiping blood off his lip with his thumb. “You never transform as Vault, nice to see you back Smokey.” 

Iskall had stood back up, this time smoke definitely curling from his lips and into the air. Grian took this time to look over to his fellow spectators. Everyone had finally stood up and lined up to watch them both, Oli and Zed looked almost nervous while both Xisuma and Stress were twitching to get involved. 

“That's because you ruined it!” Iskall all but roared, Grian tearing his attention back to the two ‘sparring.’ Somehow their claws looked even longer, closer to talons or small daggers. They jumped at Scar, said Hero narrowly avoiding the claws.

“I’m sorry.” Scar said, barely audible for Grian but plenty so for Iskall who growled and kept dancing around Scar.

“I don't think you are. I can’t transform because of you, the eye kinda messes up that whole process.” They say simple and Grian sees Scar, the real Scar, pause with wide eyes and Iskall pounces. They both fall hard onto the mat, Iskall landing on top and already raising their claw spread ready to swipe Scars face but he's already quick to buck the villain off of him. He rolls away, finally, emotion that is truly his own bleeding onto his face and now Grian himself is twitching to jump in. 

“I– I didn't…” Scar goes to start, only to be cut off as he ducks to avoid being hit by a sudden wing. Lo and behold, Iskall has manifested leathery black wings protruding from his back. Oh that can't be good…

“How long do we let this go on for?” He hears himself ask without turning his eyes away.

“Typically until somebody yields, or gets real hurt…” Xisuma responds and Grian can't help but splutter. Are they seriously just going to let this continue like this? Wouldn't this be a better conversation over a table or possibly a therapist, not while actively physically fighting?

Either way, nobody goes to break them up, and Grian doesn't know if he would be held back if he tried. So he waits, wings twitching and a tweet building in the back of his throat. 

“No! Of course you didn't think of that! Heroes never think before they do.” Now Scar finally took his bow over his shoulder grabbing an arrow. He didn't nock it, but held them together as if thinking that he might. 

“Truly, I’m sorry, Iskall.” He had to dodge another punch, flicking his head to the side making his glasses fly off his face. And that was the most surprising thing that Grian has ever seen. He has never gotten those glasses to fly off, now he knows it has something to do with his Luck, which means that he purposefully let them fall. 

Iskall just let out another growl of anger, flying into the air to circle around Scar. Finally Scar raised his bow, pulling back an arrow and letting it fly. The arrow doesn't even come close to landing, flying far left and into the high, high ceiling. 

Still, it seemed to annoy Iskall enough for them to dive bomb at Scar, only pulling back at the last second to soar back up. Grians own wings felt phantom strain at the move, Scar having not even moved from his stance. He was still nocking arrows and shooting but sorely missing as Iskall was just flying away long before he let them fly. 

Looking at Scar, Grian completely understood why too. Scar had knocked off the glasses to give Iskall an equal opportunity in the fight as whenever Scar was about to let an arrow fly, his eyes would burn brighter indicating that his power was more active. But why?

“What is your plan here?” He threw his arms out, finally sounding a bit exacerbated. “I’m sorry, I was young! What's done is done, and this is getting us nowhere.” Grian had to agree, this fight had no point to it. 

Honestly, they didn't even know this guy! His feathers ruffle and he can't help but cross his arms with a huff. They have significantly bigger fish to fry than the grudge of this one villain. What happened was surely an accident, Scar made that clear, and this whole issue was messing with him, clearly. 

“I just want you to listen to me!” They dived down again, but this time they didn't lift up. They barreled into Scar making him drop his bow as he let out a grunt as the air was forced from his lungs in the impact. Grian is sure he saw Xisuma twitch at his side. 

He thought that it was just to knock Scar over, but instead Iskall changed directions and took Scar with him into the air. And now Grian needs to be held back. His wings thrust out and flap down as his instincts slam into his brain without him even realizing they were teetering there. 

He feels Xisuma grab his shoulders before his feet even take off, feeling himself let out a string of tweets and twitters very upset at the turn of events. That's 100% playing dirty since he's scared of heights! And, only he's allowed to fly with Scar! 

Not too high off the ground though Iskall drops him, not high enough to do real damage but enough to where Scar thuds onto the mats further knocking any air from his lungs. The Hero bounces back though, popping onto his feet with calculated breaths to get air back into his lungs.

Without his glasses on, Grian sees how he looks over to his bow across the circle before landing them back on Iskall in the air. They were hovering above him, claws curled out a few feet away. Smoke puffed out every time they breathed out steadily increasing until it was full on plumes that they could all smell. 

Their skin was slowly being overtaken by pearlescent black scales, creeping up starting from their hands. 

“You have no idea what it's like to walk away from a battle permanently damaged beyond repair! You Heroes with your ‘holier than thou’ act!” Grians sure that he sees Scars hand twitch, hovering over his side. 

“Iskall this has gone too far!” Stress calls suddenly from his side. She doesn't move from where she is standing, but she doesn't look pleased. But Iskall doesn't even turn to look at her, still facing Scar with a scowl.

“What are you getting from this?” Scar all but breathes out. The smoke is only getting worse, spilling from their throat behind elongated fangs. They have a wild look in their one eye, a silence settles over them for a moment, only the sound of Iskalls wings. 

“I don't know.” They growled, shocking Grian with the shakiness of their voice. For the first time Iskall looked scared, eye wide and wild. There was shaking in their hands, even up into their wings which made Grian instinctively fluff his. Then suddenly, Iskall looked over the room, chest rapidly pulling in air.

They looked over the group, eye scanning them all. Grian is sure their eye hovers on him just a second longer. But then they suddenly turn back to look at Scar. They watch as their eye hardens, and they take a deep breath. 

The smoke seemed to flow back in, Iskalls mouth starting to emit a soft glow that was slowly getting brighter and brighter.

Grian is pretty sure he and Scar have the same thought at the exact same moment as both their eyes widened. Scar takes a small, hesitant step back but doesn't turn to run. Grian struggles out of Xisuma's hold, the Hero barely even holding him at that point. As soon as he was free he felt himself flapping his wings to thrust himself forward hoping to close the gap of distance between him and Scar as fast as he could. 

If he wasn't going to run, then he needed to push Scar out of the way of the impending breath of fire himself.

There was something in the back of his mind reminding him of who he used to be. Shielding people with impenetrable wings from danger at a moment's notice. Yet here he is, those wings gone yet he's still doing that anyways. He ignores the hypocrisy.

“Enough!” He heard someone shout just as he reached Scar. The man didn't even try to move as Grian halted in front of him, facing his back to DW with spread wings. Grian feels the air disrupt against his back, bracing himself for the hot, searing fire, but the pain never comes. Instead the air passes, ruffling a few feathers but otherwise nothing.

Slowly Grian looks up to see Scar looking down at him with an impassive stare. There's a slight grimace on his face, he looks as if he's looking through Grian rather than at him. There's something running through his head, and Grian doesn't know what. Clearly it's not some sort of fight or flight since he's just standing there! With an annoyed chirp Grian  goes to turn back around to face Iskall, ready to defend Scars honor since Scar won't. 

He has had his limit of who this guy thinks they are. Past or present villain, hurt or unhurt be damned. This guy just lost control on what was promised to be a fair honest clean spar and on top of all that they insulted all of what Scar has worked for which is unforgivable. They all get scars and skeletons they hide in their closet, it comes with their line of business and to think your own scars give you the right to marr others skin? It's selfish to think that for every scar, you need revenge. 

But as Grian whips his body around, suddenly confusion takes over his features instead of fury. Expecting to come face to face with a fire breathing dragon, he is instead nose to leaf with a giant wall of shrubbery that splits the circle in half. It's rising from the ground, boasting pink and magnet flowers twisting around themselves. It moves in an agitated way, like it's alive and angry. Grian had to step back, honestly the whole thing being a little hard to look at.

He felt his instinct to fight and his raging emotion waver off him. Not being able to actually see Iskall was a big help with calming down his bird brain. He tried to take measured breaths, ruffling his wings out behind himself and forcing himself to put them down. Behind the wall he could hear Stress talking rather loudly, but he couldn't quite make out what. 

“Scar, come here…” He heard Xisuma say from behind, his voice sounded slightly strained. He turns to look over his shoulder, forgetting that other people were actually in the room. Scar now closer than he remembers, the man now looking at Grian was a slight smirk. He huffs a small and quiet laugh, reaching a hand up to pat down a few of his more errant aural feathers. 

“Thanks Birdy…” Is all he whispers, before turning away and walking over to Xisuma, who was on the edge of the mat ringing his hands. 

As soon as he's close enough, Xisuma grabs him and pulls him into a hug. Grian follows him over, just a little surprised at Xisuma's gesture. It's just as Grian is walking over when he realizes that Scar is favoring a leg as he stands in the hug. Suddenly, he realizes the reason Stress thought it necessary to bring some healers along… Had she known this would happen?

When Xisuma pulls back, he quickly pushes Scar to sit on the bench behind him, waving Poppy over. Scar doesn't protest, just taking a seat and looking down at his lap as he does it. Poppy leans on his knee holding his hands up waiting for Scar to allow it. Probably also for Scar to turn his power off, knowing he can't have it on while being healed. 

It takes a moment, long enough that Grian almost says something, before Scar finally sighs and nods to Poppy. The glowing red over took his hands as well as a few of the cuts along his exposed arms. It didn't take long for them all to heal up, the wounds closing and Poppy standing back up. Scars eyes immediately lit back up, which Grian wasn't surprised about but he did send an offended chirp in Scar direction. 

The man lifted his head higher only to stick his tongue out at Grian, and maybe, maybe , if Grian wanted to be more upset at this whole situation, he would've berated Scar. Would've scolded him about how dumb it was to go into a fight knowing that it was a fight. But…Scar looked tired. He was clearly trying to keep his energy up though, an easy smile gracing his face, trying to pass it off as his full bold one. 

And looking back, Grian is quite done with begrudging Scar for being himself. It's a fruitless endeavor. And the parallels of him jumping in front of DW to protect Scar is not lost on Grian anymore…

So, Grian sticks his tongue back at him with a flap of his wings. It makes Scar smile all the more genuine.

“I fink it's time we take a break. I am so sorry for them!” Stress shouts as she pushes a complaining Iskall. They look better. Scales receded, claws retracted, and smoke no longer poured past their lips. They still looked shaken up though, hands running through their hair as they walked and Grian could see the way they shake. “I fink we all need a moment alone an’ then we can come back to this with we all have clear ‘eads!” She was clearly speaking to just Iskall, shoving them completely out of the room and shutting the door behind them. 

Honestly, not the conclusion that Grian was expecting here. Clearly neither was the rest of the group, Zed, xB, Beef and Keralis all awkwardly looking around. Stress was leaning against the door, holding it shut as Iskall was banging on the other side. After a moment though, they gave up and the room stayed silent. 

There was rolling tension over the room, all of them shifting on their feet looking at each other. This was increasingly awkward to sit through. This was certainly an…interesting close-to-first impression.

“Well…” Keralis starts, walking forwards and putting his arm around Xisuma. “I'm sure that will totally be the last we hear of that! Aren't they just the most hospitable!” 

And just like that the tension is broken, everyone at least giving a chuckle. Even Stress giggled with a sigh, dropping her shoulders and taking a step away from the door. She walked over to the rest of the group siding up next to Beef, crossing her arms but kept an easy smile.

“I’m really sorry about them… It's just…” Stress starts, but just huffs at a loss for words. 

“I swear these guys are nicer than this!” Zed defends with a smile. “I’ve worked for lots of people, and the villains have never been the worst group! I think this whole thing has just…frazzled a lot of people.” 

“I’m sure it's the same for our group as well. It'll just take some…adjusting.” Beef says. 

Grian chooses to ignore the fact that clearly this whole fight was very personal. Yeah, it was totally because everyone is a little stressed at the moment. Yep! Nothing more… Scar doesn't correct them either.

Suddenly, Beef lets out an attention gathering yawn, stretching his arms above his head. “Well, I for one am a bit tired. I was gonna have xB run some drills but I guess that can wait till tomorrow.”

xB immediately nods almost frantically as Keralis dramatically bemoans. 

“But xB, I was gonna spar and beat you with my new awesome skills!” He reaches up and adjusts his glasses striking a clean pose. xB threw his head back with a laugh, shaking his hair out of his eyes while backing up to stand next to Beef. 

“Sorry K, I think it's best if we call it a day.” He shrugs. “It's been a long one.” 

To be honest, he entirely agrees that it has, in fact, been a long day. Lots and lots to think about and even more now after what just happened. Looking at Scar, there was probably a lot that they were going to talk about alone later. He's pretty sure he's never heard Scar be this quiet for this long before…

The man had stood up at some point, just watching them all. He didn't even look like he was looking at them, lost somewhere in his own mind probably thinking about too many things. Probably stupid things too, self-blaming idiot. 

It's no secret that Scar definitely has some hidden self image issues, and to be honest Grian probably should've seen it coming. What super famous and good-looking Hero wouldn't? They haven't really had the time to focus on Scar as much as they had for Grian… 

He knows he shouldn't feel bad about it, that would be hypocritical all things considered. But if Grian was allowed a good cry then surely Scar was as well. Scar likes to keep up the HotGuy image as much as he can though, so he will have to question him when they are alone. Maybe they could slip off now? xB and Beef leaving could be an opportunity to dissolve the whole thing… Certainly Xisuma would want them all to go to bed anyway.

“Say ‘what’ if you agree, Grian.” He hears someone address him, not completely understanding what they said. 

“What?” Comes his eloquent response. Shaking his head away as Scar turns to face him, making sure he isn't caught staring.

“Perfect! And you will help sweetness?” Keralis claps, looking at a laughing Stress. Grian suddenly notices that there's less people in the room than before. Now only Xisuma, Keralis, Poppy, Stress, Scar and himself. Damn, missed the opportunity to leave then…

“What did I just agree to?” Grian asks, tired. 

“Keralis, I don't think this is such a good idea after…everything.” Xisuma waved his hand around at the circular mats, the bushes slowly dying off and drifting away with the still wind. 

“Oh come on Shashwham! It’ll take our minds off it I promise!” 

“Yeah, and this time I’ll be in control!” Stress bubbled. Still Xisuma seemed reluctant, and Grian was just even more confused.

“Still don't know what's going on…”

“Okay fine, but just one!” He hastily added as Keralis fist bumped the air. “And you two make it quick. We should all be turning in pretty soon here anyways.” 

“We haven't even had dinner yet…”

“Can someone please–” Grian groaned, raising his hands and shaking them in the air to show his frustration. He was happy to hear Scar give a delighted laugh. 

“You agreed to spar with Keralis in Stress’ little faux audition room.” He smiled. Grian couldn't help but feel like Scar was acting a little weird, but it was a little overshadowed at the mention of the audition room.

It's not that he's afraid of that room, but he does have a healthy amount of caution. And to be honest he would rather not have to go through that again. Or well, again again cause he kind of already had when he got shot down. His wings ached remembering both instances. 

“Don't worry hon, it's not like the real one! This one is ‘pletly run by yours truly.” She amended, leading them over to the door. He couldn't help but look at Scar to get some sort of help here. It's not that he didn't really want to…except he didn't really want to. 

Unfortunately Scar offered no help, just a shrug and a smile. 

“I had a spar, so all's fair.” He smiled, following Stress. Not fair! What just happened was not a spar! But Grian doesn't say that. “Besides! This could be good for you!” Scar waved a hand around as he spoke, a very old quirk Grian found. He couldn't help but follow him to the door with Stress, even if he didn't really want to do this, Scar did. And if it'll make up for what just went down then fine. 

“And how, exactly, would this be ‘good for me?’” He questioned, looking through the window into the completely empty room. It was square, and surprisingly, completely white with no plants growing on the inside.

“Technically, when you become a Hero through either an audition or training program, you're supposed to train against people at your level everyday. But uhh…” Scar looks a bit shy, not looking at Xisuma. “We didn't do that.” 

“But…I trained with you that one day and I'm far stronger than you.” Grian joked with a cheeky smile. 

“Hey–!” Scar perked up (finally), ready to defend himself, but Xisuma beat him to it.

“It was a conscious decision on my part to not enforce the training thing as you were already paired with the number one Hero. Clearly, you were already strong.” He explained, and Grian could hear the smile in his voice.

“Exactly! Number one Hero over here! Very strong!” Scar held his chest, as if trying to convince everyone. He was humorlessly ignored.

“Huh, so I should've been fighting with xB and Keralis this whole time?” 

“Theoretically, yes.” 

“But the only way I could've won that fight was if I had xB with me back then. Now, I can hold my own!” Keralis says, sounding over confident. 

“Not that I’m worried about losing,” Grian starts, not wanting to sound nervous but also not particularly understanding why they needed to go into the room for this. “But what's the point of that room then? Can’t we do this out here?”

“Oh but sweetface, our powers are so different!” He says as if that explains anything. 

“I’m still on about the strong thing!” Scar butted in, pouting (Grian wouldn't outwardly say anything, but his chest felt lighter knowing that Scar was acting more like himself. It's definitely not over, but they can at least push it to the side for now, for better or for worse.)

“You are very strong, HotGuy. Pack a punch I’ll tell ya tha’!” Stress said, patting the Hero sympathetically on the shoulder as Xisuma spoke over. 

“Stress explained earlier that this room is much like our audition room, except that she uses her plant powers to make the room take shape. That way, as she learns your powers she can make a more equal playing ground between two powered people.” 

“How does Stress know about the audition room?” Is all Grian asked, not really expecting that to be the first question to pop out. Xisuma goes to answer but Grian finds him stopping short before turning to look at the villain. Clearly he didn't think of that either. 

“The Association is more lax than you fink wif ‘oo they let on the custodial crew…” She shrugs, opening the door to the room. He's sure that he hears Xisuma let out a long drawn out sigh, shaking his head. “Follow me boys! Let's get this set up already, I’m gettin’ hungry.”

With a sigh himself, Grian started to follow Stress through the door. He was stopped momentarily by Scar, the man handing him a bow and a few loose arrows. Grian noted the fact it was the same one that Scar had just used in his fight with Iskall. When he had picked it up off the mat, Grian didn't know. Still, he thanked him quietly with a small smile before walking in.

“Whats both ya’s powers? It’ll help me wif the setup!” She asked, Keralis not having even followed yet. He hesitated for a moment to tell her the answer, considering that Keralis kept telling him there was something going on with him having a power. But, it wasn't confirmed nor did he think it was something that he uses considering he hasn't so far. 

“I don't have one, but I use bow and arrow as my weapon of choice.” He held the bow closer to himself, feeling the wood grain under his thumb. 

“What was the question sweetface?” Keralis asked from his side, finally having followed them into the room.

“What's your power hon?” 

“Hypnosis!” Keralis quickly gave, striking a pose as if it was cooler than it is. 

“Hmm… Alright, how about this?” She stopped them in the center of the room, giving Grian a moment to look around. It was still stark white, the only break being the window where Scar, Xisuma and Poppy were now crowded around talking with each other. Already better than The Room since he could still see the people on the other side. 

The ceiling was also pretty high, a good fifty feet or so up. Good so plenty of room to fly. He wonders of Stress will account for that in…whatever she plans on doing. 

Just as the thought reaches his brain, there's a soft rumbling emitting from the room. A vibration felt through his shoes, shaking him where he stands. He looks around and catches a glimpse of Keralis who has taken his glasses off, admiring the room with wide eyes and a grand smile. Stress also didn't look put out, a smile gracing her lips yet her eyes closed in what Grian can only assume is concentration. 

And then he sees movement all around him. Vines and roots erupted gently from the ground around them, destroying the pristine environment. They twist around each other, much like Stress’s shrub wall from before, but this time it was much more kind on the eyes. Moving slowly, but with purpose as they rise higher and higher. They start to coalesce into tightly strung rectangles, stopping at different heights. 

Looking down at where they stand, if Grian didn't know any better it almost looked like they were on the streets of a city, just scaled down. The plants Stress had made being the skyscrapers, completely with flowers for windows. 

After a moment, everything stopped and the buildings were complete. Stress looked back up at them with a soft smile and no sweat off her back. 

“Tha’ should do ya! You guys can start when I close the door on me way out!” She laughs, walking past a slightly shocked Grian. Theoretically, he knew she could do that. But seeing it is another story; remind him to never get into a fight with her with a power that strong.

Before she reached the door, he made sure to look back at Keralis. This was going to be a good, clean, spar. True, he's never actually had a spar before since he's become Scars partner. Sure they had their little training moment, but he wouldn't really call that sparring. That was just them messing around really… 

A plethora of memories showed up from his time as Watcher though. He used to be pretty good… he needs to make sure not to use his wings as defense though. 

Keralis is still looking around the room with awe, which is a perfect moment from him to hear the door click shut. No time to waste! So he throws himself in the air, thrusting his wings down before Keralis even notices. He lands on one of the towers, around three feet by three feet, making sure that one of the taller towers hides his position from Keralis who is, for now, land locked. 

 “Oh haha Birdy! Very funny! Get the high ground,” Keralis laughs, finally moving from his spot at the center and walking around the room. “But why do you come down and look into my eyes, and nothing but my eyes!” And Grian can just tell he's smiling as he speaks, it makes Grian smile a little as well.

He's glad this isn't a super serious spar. He was worried for a moment there that this was supposed to be. But if this is Keralis being serious, then he doesn't think he can be. Oh this could be fun! There's no real danger in this, since he and Keralis are actually friends. Something in Grians chest lightened at the thought. 

The grip on his bow loosened a bit and a smile pulled at his lips. He could hear Keralis’ footsteps in the corner of the room. The man was not even really trying to hide them, which Grian couldn't tell if it was on purpose or not. Either way, it gave away his position which was great for Grian. 

He makes sure to keep low, really not wanting to be seen, as that is Keralis’ whole thing. Honestly the whole room layout was starting to make sense now that he thinks about it. This isn't a spar of strength, of who can strong arm the other the quickest like Scars and Iskalls. Here, their ‘powers’ were encouraged which basically meant that this was a battle of wits. Who had the best strategy. 

He needed to think of a plan. Clearly, he couldn't look Keralis in the eyes, or even really at the man at all. If Keralis even got a glimpse of his eyes then it would all be over, but that meant that Grian had to find a way to get close enough to corner the man without seeing him. 

The footsteps were getting closer, so Grian dropped down from the pillar he was on, coasting to a shorter one on the other side of the room. He dodged a few others on his way there, hoping that Keralis didn't see him. 

His aural feathers twitched as he listened closely, pleased when Keralis’ steps didn't change cadence. Okay, so taking stock clearly he could just fly really high and shoot at Keralis and hope that he both doesn't see Grian and his arrow catches his clothes and not skin. Very risky, but the quickest. 

Though, just the thought of accidentally hurting Keralis doesn't sit right with him, so he puts that idea on the back burner. He'd just have to think of something else. He's not really used to playing the defensive as much as he used to, but now it looks like his best option is to just run away until he has a good shot.

A fleeting thought passes through his head, something that he was inclined to ignore but stuck around. If this whole thing was just for fun, then why not test a few things? Keralis was insistent that he has a power, yet Grian is sure he doesn't. Why not test it out now?

That just brings up more questions though. Mostly, how? Surely if he had a power that was able to be seen, like Watchers wings, he would've known by now. Even a power such as fire, or strength would've been very recognizable. That, and Keralis said that it was something very 'interesting,’ whatever that meant. 

He switches to the highest tower, hearing Keralis start to wander closer to where he was. He made sure to take a long way there, flying almost silently. He looks around from the highest point, eyes catching on the viewing window. He watched as Scar shook a reluctant Xisuma's hand, Poppy and Stress laughing as they did so. Scar threw his head back with a true laugh that Grian can almost hear in the back of his head. 

Were they making bets? Suddenly, Scar looks over and catches Grians eye. His eyes light up, but with happiness and not power as he raises his hand to wave enthusiastically at Grian. He just huffs a small, silent, laugh and gives a single wave back. At least he seemed happy. If he looked hard enough he might even see some confidence as well. 

Looking back down he sees the back of Keralis just as he turns a corner around one of the faux buildings. Grian gets down low, spreading his hand over the twisted roots and greenery trying to feel anything that might suggest he has power over them. He closes his eyes for a moment and just searches. He doesn't really know what it feels like to have a power, but surely if he's looking he’ll stumble upon it at some point. 

He doesn't, at least not that he can tell. Opening his eyes he feels no different then before he closed them, if maybe a bit silly for even trying. Okay, onto the next thought. 

“Come on Birdy! Come play with me…” Keralis says, echoing off the walls. He sounds honestly way too close, Grian got careless. Quickly he steps off the pillar, intent on taking a left and going to the farthest corner. He looks down, only for a moment, to gain his bearings right as Keralis turns the corner. He gasps just as he sees the beginning of Keralis lifting his gaze to meet Grians, but right before he does a feather flitted right in front of his eyes blocking line of sight between two heartbeats; just enough time to escape. One Grians feathers must have come loose at just the perfect time!

“Aw no fair!” He pouts, Grian losing him easily around a few corners. That was a close one! This is difficult since Keralis has no offense and Grian has very little defense. He should try and sneak behind him and try shooting at his clothes from there. It was a gamble though as to get the perfect shot Grian would have to be pretty open, so if he missed his shot then Keralis would turn around and see him. 

That was a thought though. What if he is a sharpshooter? He's definitely missed shots before but it was rare…and he had to practice to keep his shots sharp. He knew he also definitely had to be taught how to use a bow… But the Void is weird. So maybe it changed his invincible wings into sharpshooter? Worth a shot he supposed.

With that, he listened to Keralis once again for his footfalls. He wasn't too far, but he certainly figured out to quiet himself down. He was sneaking around now instead of just walking, which actually helped Grian out since he would have to catch him. 

It sounded like he was coming toward Grian, which meant he needed to go around him. Easy enough, but he needed to stay relatively low so he wouldn't be seen flying. Also an easy feat. He dropped down onto the floor for the first time since it all started, crouching real low. 

He kept his back to the pillars as he moved, listening to make sure Keralis didn't change paths at all. He only paused for a moment when he passed the viewing window, making sure to pop out from right beneath, having to bite his tongue to not laugh at the face Scar gave and the shrill scream that was lost behind sound proofed walls. 

Continuing on, he carefully moved along the wall until he reached the corner of the room. One of the larger pillars was positioned here, but he couldn't really fly up at risk of possibly being seen. Looking at the vines it didn't look like it would be too hard to climb. There's was certainly enough footholds, he just needed to make sure he didn't fall. 

With that he puts the bow around his head while reaching up and starting to climb. He doesn't have too hard of a time, each vine placed in such a way to where he doesn't have to search for long to find a good leg up. He's not sure if Stress did that on purpose, but surely if Keralis knew about it then he would've been climbing by now. 

After pulling himself up to the top, he stands tall looking to see if there was a way to spot Keralis from up here. Honestly, looking down the place looks almost like a maze of towers, the comparison to a city was not lost up here. Luckily, somehow from his position there was a perfectly clear look down the diagonal of the room. He could see from one corner, almost directly to the next. 

Grian grinned as he pulled his bow back over his shoulder as he crouched down. Nocking an arrow back, he decides it best to sit and wait until Keralis wanders past him. 

“Come out, come out wherever you are!” Speak of the devil and he will arrive. Keralis turns into the corridor as he speaks, keeping his walking quiet and creeping but not looking up at all. “I saw you walking around sweetface, come say hi!”

It makes Grian smile hearing him try and call him out, as if he was some lost animal who will just walk to the sound of his voice. Which, for a moment, is a power that Grian realizes he hasn't tried yet. He quickly dismisses it, knowing that he talks enough that he would have figured out by now if he had some sort of siren call.

Besides, right now he was testing out sharpshooter. All he needed to do was get the best shot and purposefully mess it up. That way, if the shot still struck true then he would prove to be a sharpshooter. He's just going to ignore all the times he's missed in the past because maybe in those moments he just wasn't thinking about it hard enough. 

His grip tightens as Keralis gets a little closer, Grian looking down the arrow waiting for the perfect shot. And then, the talkative Hero lifts his arms, mouth opening probably to start saying something more. It's the best shot, Keralis giving slack in the fabric of his shirt between his arm and torso, perfect to send an arrow through. 

And that is just what Grian aims for, but right before he lets the arrow go he moves just a little to the left. Too far to the left to even graze the mans shirt. He lets the arrow fly anyway, hoping that it hits its mark and willing some power to work. 

Unfortunately, it misses. Landing exactly where Grian expected it to, much too far to the left. Keralis jumps as the arrow seemingly comes from nowhere, embedding itself deep into the floor. Grian watches with belated movement as Keralis quickly snaps his head to look up at Grian following the path of the arrow. 

Somehow it's just milliseconds before their eyes meet that one of the flowers from the pillar on Keralis’ right drops right on his face. Grian can help but laugh at his luck, even Keralis shocked and spluttering. But by the time he knocks it off, Grian has already thrown himself into the air and winding his way around a few of the columns trying to lose Keralis’ eye. 

“Very cheeky! It was just getting fun!” He can hear Keralis running after him, the man's footfalls sounding off to the side. As Grian turns his head he is greeted to the sight of Keralis almost running parallel to him, trying his best to get either ahead of Grian or somehow cut him off. Honestly a smart move to make, but they aren't in a terribly huge space. 

Grian is staring for too long, almost getting caught as Keralis starts to turn his head to look directly at him. But since Keralis wasn't looking where he was going, too focused on trying to get Grian, that he ran face first into a pillar. Grian immediately pulls up to avoid hitting the wall, circling around and landing on one of the scaled down skyscrapers directly above Keralis. 

“Not a funny trick Birdy!” He shouts, rolling over and raising his fist at the ceiling as if knowing Grian would see it. Grian grimaces, it's not like he's the one who tripped up Keralis. And then a thought hits him. Was he? 

He sounds jovial, but it just makes something twist in Grians stomach. What does he mean? This would be so much easier if Keralis would just tell him what this power he is supposed to have is ! He missed that shot, which means sharpshooter is out, but he's been really good at evading Keralis. Evasion then? Surely not since he and Scar were very captured the other day…

“I know you're up there! Come and fight me!” 

“I’d rather not look at you thanks!” Grian answers without much thought, he's been found out and he has other things to think about. 

“Not funny!” Keralis snorts. 

Is he resistant to powers? Like, he keeps getting away whenever Keralis is about to look at him. Clearly powers work on him when he allows it to happen since Keralis was able to get his memories back. But maybe not when he's actively thinking about it? He's already stopped really thinking he was gonna win this little spar match thing, so might as well give it a shot. 

He can hear Keralis pacing the bottom of the pillar, possibly looking for a way up. Interestingly, he doesn't seem to find one as Grian hears him huffs before shouting at the top.

“Come on down! It's no fun up there!”And isn't that the truth. 

Slowly, Grian gets on his knees and places his hands on the edge. Surely if he looks at Keralis, he should feel whether or not the power will work on him. All he had to do was actually just look at him.

So with that Grian peaks his head over the edge hoping to catch the man's eye. He holds his breath for a moment, but releases it as he sees Keralis turn the corner around the side of the pillar, not realizing that Grian was looking around. 

Exasperated, Grian turns to look over to the other side, but once again catches the foot of Keralis walking away. Oh, so it was gonna be like this huh. He decided to just sit and wait for Keralis to get all the way to his side again instead of catching him. But after a moment of waiting, he doesn't come back. So now he decides to not move?

Moving back to the original place, he finally catches Keralis on the right side. But he crouched down, tying his shoe. Okay now slight anxiety was turning into anger. Everytime he tries to look at him, somehow the man's eyes are obscured or looking somewhere else. Literally, how? 

Grians patience runs out when Keralis stands back up with freshly tied shoes, raising his head back up to try and catch Grian. It all happens in slow motion, Grian ready to try and push back against Keralis’ power scooting closer to the edge. But in doing so, he accidently nudges his bow that he had set down right over the edge. It falls quickly, perfectly hitting Keralis on the head with a soft thud. 

“Ow!”

“Okay what the fuck?” 

They both shout at the same time. Grian stands, flaring his wings out in frustration. He thrusts them down, shooting himself in the air but immediately throwing himself downwards to roughly land behind Keralis. The man was still rubbing his head where the bow fell, the weapon now on the ground, unassuming in its position. 

Grian can feel his wings twitch as annoyance rolls off him. This whole time he was just trying to find out this stupid power that Keralis keeps talking about, and everytime he tries something interrupts! If he didn't know any better it felt like something was doing it on purpose! Seriously, while it was technically lucky that he was getting away from Keralis since this was a duel, he would rather not have the luck!

Finally, Keralis looks back up and finds no Grian. With a sigh, he turns around intent on doing something Grian isn't privy to. What he does notice is when Keralis tries to look Grian in the face, another flower falls into his eyes. 

“Oh hey Birdy! Looks light you caught me!” He fights with the petals for a moment before swiping them all away. “That power of yours was working double time on defense huh?” Once again, as he tries to look at Grian, he tries to take a step at the same time, resulting in him tripping over nothing.

“Alright! I conceded! You have a better tactic than me, so I lose! You can turn it off now!” Keralis jokes with a giggle as he tries to pick himself up. “I promise not to look into your eyes, just turn it off please!”

“I don't know what you are talking about!” Grian finally shouts, surprising them both. He didn't really mean to shout, he's just… frustrated. Keralis has only ever talked in riddles and he's so done with riddles. Can't someone just be straight with him? What is going on. “You never told me what this power is, Keralis! I…I don't have a power, but you keep saying I do and I’m so confused. This whole time I was trying to figure it out, but everything I tried didn't work!” He walks over and puts his hand out to help Keralis stand up. He wishes that Keralis would just tell him what the power is. Hell, he wishes that he had Keralis power so he could just tell himself.

Keralis looks up at him with a strained smile as he reaches up and sets his hand in Grians, and all hell breaks loose. 

A feeling starting from where the two are connected, something that he hasn't felt in a very long time, yet can't seem to forget. Or well, he did forget. But now its brought right back to the forefront of his mind as the warmth travels from their connected hands, up through his arm and invades every piece of Grian that bears existence. 

It pushes up against his very soul, making room where there is none. His skin feels too small, and his lungs feel like they are being forced to share the space in his ribs. There's too much, too much.

Like second nature, he wants to push back. He wants to rid himself of whatever feels too big, letting go of whatever has overstayed its welcome. He doesn't remember how. Doubling over as pain strikes through his chest, finally letting go of Keralis’ hand.  He's sure that he hears the man trying to talk to him, but he can't hear of the rush of blood in his ears. 

“G– You got– le… let go!” 

He breathes through his teeth as he tries to get used to the feeling. Whatever it is feels like multiples and he doesn't understand how he knows that. There's too many of something and it's too much. 

He's pretty sure he feels his knees hit the ground, someone holding his shoulders and his wings flap wildly. He feels something inside starts to fizzle out and he's overcome with an overwhelming sadness. Something longing as something bleeds away, and it is replaced by something else. It feels different and awful.

The world feels different now and he doesn't know why!

A quiet sob escapes him as the world returns to focus. He wants what he lost back and he doesn't even know what it was! Slowly, his hearing starts to return. He can hear himself mumbling about how he wants it back, but even he himself doesn't know what he's asking for. 

“I know! I know Birdy it's okay, lean on Scar. That's good..” Oh it's Scar holding his shoulders. That's good, he falls more forward placing his face into the Hero's shoulder. He feels as Scar pulls him closer, hands running over any place they can reach to try and soothe him. 

“I know you want it back, I know. Scar touch his skin.” Keralis speaks oddly serious yet out of breath. Scar doesn't even hesitate to hold Grians hand. Gods, he's so lucky that Scars here or he would seriously be even more freaked out. 

“Shh you're alright..” Scar spoke into his ear, it made his feathers twitch and bat at his face. The man doesn't move away though, if anything he pulls him even closer. 

“Birdy wouldn't it be better if you had a power like Hotty? You’d be so lucky…” Now is certainly not the time for hypotheticals as Grian still feels the buzzing under his skin. It's getting better, but he still feels so incredibly off center and he just doesn't know why. 

Maybe if he was as Lucky as Scar, he wouldn't have gotten into this in the first place. Was that what this was? A distraction from everything going on? Well it was working. He cheeps into Scars shoulder trying to focus on him, compared to the wrongness.

He feels hand tighten around his, and God's does he suddenly wish he was more like Scar. Sure they had their moments, but now more than ever he understands him so well. He could only wish to be so Lucky.

Then the warmth starts to spread from his hand again, and a startled chirp escapes him. No, not again!

Scar doesn't let him go though, and he's happy when the pain never comes like before. Instead the warmth takes place in his being and chases out the uncomfortable new. Slowly, he feels normal again. Whatever had tried to invade had bled away, and was replaced by something that felt like had always been there. 

He takes a measured breath in, releasing it slowly and then repeating the process. It takes a moment for him to truly regain a sense of where he is and what was going on. He's in Scar lap, for one, the man holding his shoulders as Grian still has his head tucked into his neck. His other hand is rubbing his back gently, taking care to steer clear of the wings.

He can hear Stress and Poppy beside him as well, them quietly talking to each other a few paces away. Xisuma and Keralis were on his other side, much closer as they spoke to Scar about him. He feels warm. Warm and tired.

“I didn't realize I never said his power…” Keralis says, sounding slightly guilty. “I guess he really didn't know what it was.”

“None of us do either, K.” Xisuma mumbled. “What is it? Clearly you are the only one who actually knows.”

“I– Birdy are you with us?” Keralis started, leaning over to touch his shoulder. Grian suddenly felt exponentially tired, it had been a long and emotional day. But still, he nodded, slowly taking his head out of Scars shoulder. 

Looking around he realizes that Stress had dropped all the pillars. They were once again in a plain blank room painted in stark white. Honestly it was giving him a headache. With a groan he raises a hand to rub at his eyes while trying to sit up better still in Scars lap.

What just happened?

“I'm sorry I never told you your power…I thought you'd know or remember.” Keralis gains his attention when he scoots in front of him, Xisuma staying crouched to the side. 

“Is…is what just happened part of it?” Grian asks, honestly not really wanting to use the power at all if that's what he has to deal with. Now that he's not freaking out, he now remembers how this has definitely happened before. It was right when he was shoved into the Void, after losing grip on Scars hand. It didn't feel nearly as bad then…at least that he can remember. That whole mess was already hard enough to process, what with everything that went on. 

“Yes, that was part of it. I'm so sorry Grian, I didn't realize it would hurt to use after such a long time…” Keralis looked genuinely upset, cheeks flushed and eyes downcast, completely avoiding eye contact. “I think we all understand that this power is rare and we've never seen it before so I really don't know. I thought you were being cheeky when you said you didn't know and Im sorry–”

“K,” Scar interrupts, hugging Grians shoulders. “Just tell us what it is?”

“Well…It's like. Well I guess you could say… Maybe– Something like–”

“Spit it out Keralis.” Xisuma cut in, sounding a bit put out.

“Mimicry?” He finally stated, something finally falling into place. “It's more than that but yeah. Birdy can just, like, touch and then poof! He has their power!” 

A wave of fatigue settled over Grian, making him sway back into Scar. Mimicry? All this time, he's had the power to mimic people's own powers and he never even knew? He can feel himself drifting off with a whole new list of questions, but a lot more answers. 

But something ringing above all the other, he has to know. He just touched Scar…

“Am I Lucky now?” He mumbles just loud enough to be heard. He notices as the others quiet down upon hearing the question. It's Keralis who answers, which is honestly who he expected to. But as Grian drifts off his response leaves a sour taste in his mouth.

“Oh Birdy… you've been Lucky this whole time…” And then he drifts into the ether of sleep.

Chapter Text

“Yea I think its the fact his official two years is coming up quick. Few more weeks now it seems.” Impulse stands from the floor, using the coffee table as leverage. 

“Why would that make him upset though? He should be happy!” Pearl throws out, standing as well and walking past the couch into the kitchen. Grian doesn't really watch her go, leaning back onto Mumbos shoulder. 

“I mean…” Mumbo starts, slightly dislodging Grian as he brings his hands up to ring them together nervously. “We have been kinda blowing him off… Maybe we should celebrate or something?”

“For a two year Hero anniversary?” Grian says back, “We have much bigger things to worry about than a party.”

“I agree, but Scar is part of the team too. He would probably appreciate it.” Pearl comes back holding two mugs in each hand. She stretches a hand to him and Mumbo, both reaching out and taking the mug of coffee. After giving the other to Impulse, she flops back on the couch next to Grian who hisses at the jostle. Pearl hisses back, before they both giggle at each other while taking a drink.

“Oh!” Impulse suddenly exclaims, “I do have something else to mention!”

“I assume not party related.” Mumbo sets his coffee down on the table, leaving Grian to flounder to keep himself up straight. Honestly everyone is so mean to him today!

“Unfortunately no, but we will go back to that because I agree that we should do something for him, since we are leaving him out a bunch.” He takes the documents that were on the coffee table and walks them over to the hidden compartment Grian had put in the corner of the room, under the carpet. “I just think we should have something in place in case…something happens.” He raised his voice a bit since he had his back facing them.

‘Something happens’? Grian places his drink on the table as well finally sitting up on his own. They had already been through all worst case scenarios last meeting, what else could they really do if they were caught? They pretty much just give in…

At the silence, Impulse finishes hiding their documents in the floor, replacing the carpet and standing back up to face them. He had a look on his face as if he didn't know whether to continue or not. With a final sigh, he walks back over and sits facing them on the other side of the table. 

“I think that just in case one of us…becomes compromised we should hide all the antidote recipes where nobody will find it, including us.” He places his hands neatly folded on the table. 

“How will we do that? We shouldn't have someone else be involved in this…” Pearl sips her coffee smoothly.

“I think Mumbo should hide them in a place where only he knows.” Impulse explains simply. 

“What if Mumbo defects though?” Mumbo himself cries.

“Hey!” Grian shouts before processing who spoke. Everyone in the room except Mumbo huffs a short laugh at the anxious man speaking about himself in third person. “Mumbo, you aren't going to defect.”

“I might! This is a lot of pressure!” His mustache twitches as he speaks, eyes a little wide as he speaks. 

“I'm not saying that I don't trust any of you, because I would quite literally lay down my life for any of you, but it's better if less of us know where it is.” Impulse explains. “And since Mumbo is the only one of us who knows what he's looking at, he should hide it until it's finally finished. That way if something happens, then none of us can give anything if they…ask… for it.”

“I agree…”Grian couldn't fault that logic, even if it felt a little painful to admit it. “To be honest I don't even know where your papers are right now anyways. So keep that up Mumbo!” He tried to bring a little bit of levity, luckily Mumbo did chuckle just a bit. 

“If you guys think it's best then I will keep my notes hidden somewhere, but that means you can't go snooping in my room any more, Pesky Bird.” Mumbo flicked Grian ear. 

Scandalized, Grian let out a clicking chirp flaring his wings to make himself look bigger. He leaned in close over Mumbo, baring his slightly sharper than normal teeth. The man leaned back laughing only a little nervous as Grian climbed further and further up. It was all fake, but Grian was having a good time.

Suddenly the front door slammed open, causing Mumbo to fully drop his head to lay over the arm or the couch. He was staring at the front door upside down as Grian looked up.

There in the doorway was a tall, slim, green clad figure with long brown hair. They had their hand flared out frozen in the motion of throwing the door open. They stood staring at Grian and Mumbo, their eyes switching looking between them both. Suddenly, it hit Grian what this position really looked like from an outside perspective. Finally, Scar regained himself first and broke the silence of the room.

“Well. I knew this relationship was am– ambi– guous, but I thought there was a no PDA rule in the tower.” He spoke, placing his hands on his hips with a smirk. “And I mean. In front of Impulse and your sister? Shameless, Birdy.” With that, he strode into the room like he owned it. 

Grian could feel his face light up red, flusteredly pulling his wings behind and throwing himself off of Mumbo backwards and practically into Pearl's lap. It was like the tension was broken because Pearl was having a fit with how hard she was laughing. He could also hear Impulse busting a stitch with Scars calming cuckles as well. 

Pearl pushed him off so she could fully curl over her stomach, hastily putting her drink down. Now sitting up Grian can’t help but groan as he hides his face in his hands. He didn't look at Mumbo, but he can only assume that he's much in a similar state. 

He can't even be mad because it most definitely looked weird from Scars perspective, but he didn't need to put it like that! He can hear the man clicking around glasses in his kitchen, probably making himself some coffee too.

“Gods you are worse than Keralis!” He groans, dropping his hands and standing. Seriously he could have just used his own kitchen if he wanted coffee, not break down his door. He passes Mumbo who is in fact holding his face in his hands. The tips of his ears were blazing as Impulse patted his shoulder laughing. 

“Yes, but I know both of you now, so.” He smiles over his shoulder as Grian walks into the kitchen. His shades are off, short hair messy like he just got out of bed throwing Grian off for a moment. Wasn't it just…long? No… maybe not. 

“You have your own room, you know.” Grian leans against the counter coursing his arms, face finally going back to its normal color. Hopefully Mumbo is faring better now as well, he can hear them talking quietly from where he is. 

“Sure, but your door was unlocked–”

“So I must want company yeah yeah I get it.” Grian finished for him, shaking his hair off his shoulders. Usually it's up in a bun, he must've forgot a hair tie this morning.

“Exactly!” He pours himself some coffee, more sugar than drink but Grian doesn't stop him. Scar steps past him, outfit seemingly changing between one blink and the next. It was a jarring change from the kind greens to the harsher blacks, oranges and blues. What? He has to shake his head as he watches him walk away, something here isn't right… Slowly he starts walking back to the living room behind Hotgu– Scar. It's Scar.

“Were you guys having another meeting without me?” Scar says with a smile, but Grian can see it looks a little forced. He plants himself where Grian had been sitting on the couch, nobody says a word about his outfit. 

“Oh you know how it is! Old Boatem traditions die hard!” Impulse covers, waving his hand flippantly as he takes a drink.

“Sounds about right. Right, Grian?” Scar sends a look his way and it makes him pause his steps. He looks angry. It's such a sudden turn of emotion that Grian feels unfounded and a little bit nauseous. What's going on?

He can feel his heart rate rising the longer Scar looks at him with unblinking eyes. 

“He says it's for your safety, you know. Like you aren't strong enough to handle it.” Mumbo looks over to Grian as well, Mumbos own Watcher mask set squarely on his face. He can't help but take a step back as Impulse and Pearl look at him as well with their masks on. 

“Scar you haven't even gone under cover yet…” He weakly defends, not even believing himself as he says it. It sounded practiced, like he didn't even want to say it but did anyway. 

“Oh but I have now, haven't I.” He stands up again, cup vanishing. “In fact, I’m the number one Hero because of you. I never wanted that.” He's stalking up to Grian, the rest of Boatem following behind. He keeps backing up as the room becomes darker and darker and he doesn't know what's going on. 

The walls and floor were disappearing around him leaving them in a blinding darkness. Still he found his feet hitting the floor as he took steps away from the group. 

“I–”

“Even this darkness doesn't compare to where you sent us.” Impulse says slowly, almost hurt.

“You got out, and left us behind. Sent us to our deaths and used your own power to save yourself but not us.” Pearl cries behind her mask, tears fall from her chin to the infinite ground. Mumbo stays silent, which somehow feels worse. 

His back suddenly hits a wall that isn't there as Scar towers over him, looking somehow taller than he actually is. His heart is practically in his throat as he looks up at the scarred man with no words he can say. The others crowd around, their faces obscured but body language telling Grian all he needs to know. 

“Cat got your tongue? That little power you stole from me isn't helping now, is it?” He sneers, his eyes a blinding orange color almost yellow. A small chirp leaves his throat, his wings flaring out behind him and coming around his shoulder to shield himself from having to look anymore. But only one makes it that far, the other is caught in Scar grip, holding it painfully so he can lean down closer to his face.

“You don't get to run away from us.” It hurts, the way he's holding his wing. He cries out as he lets out, his pristine wing replaced by a wrapped mess of blood and feathers. “What's wrong, Grian? Scared?”

“S-stop. Please, Scar.” And it's silent. At some point Grian had closed his eyes, leading his head away as to get further away from the bastardized version of his family.  

Slowly, he cracks them open peak past his one encompassing wing. He sees nothing because there is nothing to see. It's just nothing and nothing, completely pitch blackness no matter where he looks. The floor drops out from under him as the wall behind his back does the same. 

He shouts out, but doesn't fall. He is floating in Void, feelingless and empty. No…

He tries to move, to fly, but his one wing is still painfully wrapped and no matter how he moves there's no resistance. It truly is empty. Panic starts to set in not long after that.

“Th-thats not right… Scar! Scar please!” He tries to shout out. “Pearl?” Grian can't help but cry out. Please, at least give him his sister if he's stuck here once again. “Mumbo? Impulse?” Tears are streaming down his face, dropping down his chin and just floating away. 

“Scar?” He whimpers, curling up wrapping his claws around his head bringing his knees up. “Please, Scar…”

“We are going to find you, Watcher…” A voice calls out. He can't bring himself to lift his head though. A flash of a purple and gold eye flashes under his eye lids anyways. He can feel the presence of something surrounding him, purple bleeding around him. Coiling over his shoulders and in between his wings. “You got through the cracks a few too many times. And when we find you, and your little posse, we will kill you all for good and laugh as you suffer.”

“Please..” A cacophony of giggles and laughs break out from every angle around him. It grows and grows in volume until he has to cover his ears, but it gives little relief. 

“Go on, wake up, little bird. Wake up.” They giggle around the others. 

“Wake up, Grian!” He can't help but sob at the shout. It's too much. Too much!

“Birdy, please! Wake up!” They sound desperate as he cries harder. He just wants all the sound to stop. He didn't mean it! Everything that happened he didn't mean it!

“I know, Gri, I know. It's okay, please.” He feels something pulling at his hand, and he grabs at it, pulling it close. It's so warm compared to the feeling of nothing. “Grian, wake up.” They say, right next to his ear and his eyes fly open. 

It's bright. Well, bright compared to nothing. He's currently half in Scars lap, head under his chin with his wings encasing them both (with no pain involved). His face felt wet as tears continued to carve a path down his cheeks. His breathing was messed up, one whole step from hyperventilating as Scar whispered into his ear and ran his free hand up and down his back. 

“It's okay, Birdy. You're okay, please wake up…” He pulled him more into his lap with the hand on his back and Grian followed. 

“Scar…” He croaked back, feeling Scar slightly jolt as his grip tightened, before quickly relaxing. 

“Hey G, breathe with it me. It was just a nightmare…” He breathed, sounding close to tears himself but keeping his voice soothing and breathing even. Grian just did as told, a cloudy fog filling his brain the more he woke up. Confusion overtaking fear easily, the tears slowly stopping as they both relaxed against each other in the now silent room. 

Grian doesn't know what's worse now. Deafening silence, or a hallowed cacophony. He decides to turn his head until his ear leans against Scar, his heartbeat filling the silence in a more comforting way. There was a lot to process in that dream that he would honestly just rather not…

Finally, both him and Scar were just breathing in tandem, Scar leaning back until he was propped up by the headboard of the bed taking Grian with him. 

“What–” Grian tried to start, a chirp cutting him off as he spoke. He cleared his throat before trying again. “What happened?” Trying to clear some of the confusion he's feeling after waking up. 

“Which part?” Scar tried to joke, but it fell flat since Grian didn't really know the answer. 

“I don't remember falling asleep…”

“Do you remember we were with Keralis?” He nods his head. A little slower Scar asks "Do you remember what he told you?” Grian feels his wings twitch behind him as Scar reaches out a hand and starts to lightly preen. He almost throws him off, a feeling of nausea rolling through him as flashes of the nightmare blink in front of his eyes. He knows Scar would never , anxiety is rarely rational. He holds dead still for a moment, then slowly relaxes as Scar is as gentle as always.

“I do. Something about a Mimicry power that I’ve apparently always had.” 

"Yeah see you got it.” Scar tried, encouragingly. "You passed out right after that." He finished soft but abrupt and Grian could have laughed at the comedic timing, but he didn't want to make Scar feel bad when he was trying to help. “We brought you back to our room after that and you've been out for a few hours, past dinner time now. You started having a nightmare around an hour ago and wouldn't wake up no matter what I did… I almost called Keralis to try.” He had stopped preening, just laying his hand over his wing. “You kept calling my name…”

For some reason that made Grian feel almost guilty. Throughout that dream there were many reasons he called out for Scar, and a lot of them were not too good. He felt himself curl up a little bit, the first part of his dream coming back to almost mock him. 

Oh, how different he's become. Maybe in his other life he would have pushed down the dream and hid the fact it hurt so bad. But he is different and not that man anymore, so he spills it all.

“I was back in the Void, and you guys were telling me it was all my fault that everything happened like it did. It's dumb, I know stuff just happens, but it felt so real… And then the Council told me how they were searching for us and how they were going to kill all of us and–” He had to take a hiccuping breath in. Scar shushed him as he went back to preening. 

“It was just a dream Birdy, they can't find us here and Stress has made sure of that.” He takes a moment to wait for Grian to regain his breathing. “You know, this is like the third time I’ve woken you up from a nightmare. If I had a penny for every time, it wouldn't be a lot but a bit odd it happened that many times.” He jokes in such a wrong way that Grian can't help but bust out a small, chirping laugh. 

“That's not how that saying goes, Scar.” He smiles, pulling back just a little to look at Scars face. They are both smiling, Scars missing his glasses as his eyes glow a dim orange. He looks kind and happy, very different from the version of Scar his mind conjured up. He has a few tear tracks still drying on his face and could honestly use a fresh shave, but he's smiling. 

Something in his chest twinges as they look at each other. Something warm and wiggling that feels a lot like something that he should ignore and deal with at a very different time than when their lives are in danger. But it's there in Scars eyes too.

In lieu of what could be done about it, Grian leans up and gives Scar a small peck on his forehead. Technically, it's a traditional greeting and show of affection to Avian species, he's just never felt comfortable with the need to use it. Scar hums, cheeks a slightly pink color as he returns the favor as Grian gives a sharp chirp when he hesitates. If he's going to do traditional Avian things, he's going to make Scar do them too!

“I think I've only seen you do that to Pearl and maybe Mumbo.” Scar laughs, Grian moving out of his lap to just lean against his side. He still pulled his wing around himself and within reach of Scars hand, letting him continue his petting. 

“Poor Impulse, pushed aside.” He jokes, knowing that Impulse was very okay without forehead kisses in his vaguely touch adverse life. 

“I'm sure he is okay with it.” Scar smiles back, running his fingers through the feathers. It sends  shiver up Grians spine, pleasant but sensitive. Not that he wants to keep bringing the topic up, but he really has changed so much in the just the few weeks he really knew  Scar. 

Not only within his personality and the general way of how he thinks about himself, but all the stuff he knew about himself has changed as well. So many memories he didn't even know he was missing until they were back. And sure there was a draw to his past life since he went back to crime fighting and somehow   got close to Scar again. 

He leaned further onto Scars shoulder, prompting the man to lay his head over Grians. That brings up another thing he never knew about himself. Possibly the most important thing he's ever discovered about himself honestly. A power. Mimicry. Furthermore, he had Scars power.

For how long, is the question. He thinks he remembers the feeling of what it was like to use his power. He had tried to take Keralis before he passed out, most likely. It was warm and burning. Something trying to fill in the spaces between his blood and skin. For a moment he knew he had Keralis’ power, he felt how different his being felt. 

He remembers feeling that once before, right as he was being thrown into the Void. It was such a dimmed emotion through the memory that he didn't pay it much mind. But now that he's been through it again, it's like the gate has opened. 

He remembers wishing so hard that he had Scars Luck, and then he felt the burning and a bleed. He must've gotten what he asked for and had it ever since. 

It strikes him more now than ever how much he can relate to Scar now. Looking back at the past three years? He doesn't feel very lucky… He had just the three years, Scar has lived with this his whole life. Then again, maybe he just wasn't using it correctly?

Scars eyes are almost exclusively hidden or glowing a very noticeable orange. Surely Grian would realize if he was using the power? The mimicry doesn't seem like he needs to be actively thinking about the power to use it, but surely Luck would. He's not sure what it would feel like though…

“What–” He goes to start but Scar startles as he speaks. Apparently he had started to doze off in the almost silent room, if the stagnant hand in Grians wing gave any hint. 

“Sorry! Been a long day…” He laughs lightly, bringing his hand up to rub at his face. Suddenly Grian feels a bit bad. Not only did he have his whole fight with Iskall earlier, but then had to ride the emotional roller coaster of whatever was going on with Grian. Something was bubbling up in his chest again, but this time he knew what it was. He spent years pushing it down, of course he knew what it was. 

“You should sleep, it's probably late…” He chirps, pushing Scar off his shoulder and further down the bed. Hopefully indulging in this isn't a horrible idea, letting go of his instincts used to be as easy as breathing. Now it felt like something big.

Scar protested as he hopped off the bed, but he didn't really go far. Just far enough to start pulling the pillows and blankets off the bed. He cheeped at the lack of amount of it all, getting on his knees to check under the bed. 

“What are you doing? Really, I don't want to go to bed, Birdy. We have more important stuff to talk about!” He whines, peaking his head over the edge just as Grian finds the extra blankets and pillows piled under the bed. He gives a sharp chirp as he stands. How dare Scar not take care of himself! Udderly preposterous!

“Oh I see what this is…” Scar groans, falling backward onto the bed until he's star-fished in the center. Perfect!

And with that Grian starts to assemble that closest approximation to a next he can come up with. It's not very good since it doesn't have familiar blankets and familiar pillows. It also doesn't have very many of his flocks things in there… Scar is in it though so that's gotta count for something. Plus, once he steps in it will have doubled the amount of flock things. 

The circular mass comes together around Scar, the man laughing every time Grian chirps or coos. He giggles when Grian tries to push him out of the way so he can place the perfect pillow there. Obliging only after a light scolding in the language only the birds could really understand. 

After the final blanket is placed over the whole thing, including Scar, Grian climbs back in and settles under it next to Scar. He flexes his wings under his back as he claws to get back into the driver's seat. Sure he wanted to build this little nest but he and Scar still should talk about some things before sleeping. 

“Cozy!” Scar says, muffled by the blanket over his face. 

“Shut up…” Grian gently elbows him in the side, only kind of embarrassed. He's getting better, but it's hard. 

He heard Scar stifle a yawn, his hand coming up to cover it leaving Grian the perfect opportunity to replace where his arm used to be with himself. 

“Woah, I bit forward huh Birdy?” He could hear the smirk in Scars voice, so he elbowed him a bit harder. 

“Shut. Up.” He can't even really blame that on his flock instinct, but he's going to anyway.

“Shutting up…” Came the easy reply.  He laid his arm back over Grian, pulling him a bit closer so he could reach his wings. Honestly at this point that seems to be the only thing Scar kept him around for; his soft wings. 

He knows that is not true, but he's also becoming a bit tired the longer he stays as well. They could both really use a nice rest it seems. Still though, he decides to ask one more question, okay if Scar falls asleep in the middle of the explanation. 

“What does it feel like to use your power?” He asks, almost a whisper now that it feels like the room is even smaller under the blankets. There's nothing to see, but he knows that Scar is there, gently running a hand over his wings. He fluffs it up, hoping to get him to go a bit further to at least scratch. He does, but very lightly.

“Well,” He starts and it sounds heavy. “It would be easier to tell you what it feels like when I don't at this point.” He mumbles, and Grian realizes with a small shock that he can't see the warm glow of Scar eyes under the darkness. He's turned it off…

“Humor me.” He says instead of pointing out the obvious. It makes sense as to why Scar is really petting him much anymore, it probably hurts. 

“Well, I guess it's like any other power. I want it to work and then it does! I know you haven't really messed around with yours but, I’d imagine you had a similar mindset when using it.” He yawns again, his jaw clicking as he does. “It feels…kinda warm I guess? But that's because I also just feel cold when not using it… though…It does burn hotter when I want to double my Luck. Like pressure under my skin… I guess.” His words are slurring a little as he talks, slowing down towards the end. 

“That's kinda what it's like for me too I think… Maybe I could try and use your power tomorrow on purpose. We could find some pennies on the ground or something.” He jokes, getting a huff from Scar. The man rolls over sloppily, pulling Grian into his chest making him flail for a second, not expecting it. 

“I think that out of all people who could use my power, you would find a way to make it better than just pennies…” And Grian is stunned into silence, not knowing a proper response to that. He hears soft snores, realizing that Scar finally fell asleep. 

He curls up a little in Scars arms thinking about what he just said. He really doesn't think any part of his last three years has been Lucky, but yet here he is with Scar yet again. Scar doesn't think his power is, well, powerful. He finds guilt in every event that benefits him, and not others. Yet somehow upon knowing Grian has his power, he believes that it can do some good?

It's a lot to think about, especially while trying to fall asleep. But somehow Grian manages, closing his eyes and pulling his free wing over the both of them. He's still very tired from the day's events, body pulling himself down into sleep whether he wants to or not. He welcomes it though, intent on solving all his problems the next day. And hoping, as he drops off the waking plane, that this bout of rest is dreamless.

***

He wakes up with something warm pressed against his side that he leans closer into with a groan. It's probably too early to be awake, which is honestly all the time, but now feels worse. Stubbornly, he tries to fall back asleep only for his warm pillow to start shaking under him. He lets his discontent be known with a chirp.

“I guess this bird isn't early. No worms for you.” They giggle, but Grian is too tired to figure out why. Why would he even want worms? They laugh again, thoroughly waking Grian further.

“I guess there's no rush.” The mysterious body pillow says. They lay a hand over his wing and start to card through the feathers. When his instincts don't immediately reject it, he suddenly knows the identity of his nest mate (somewhere in his brain he knows he never didn't know, but just in passive thought.)

“How did you even wake up before me? You haven't slept in, like, forever, and I take unplanned naps all the time.” Grian with a slightly annoyed huff. He has given up the prospect of going back to sleep, but he will settle for laying in his comfortable nest next to Scar. 

“I wouldn't call passing out ‘unplanned naps,’” Scar laughs while moving to set up. It dislodges Grian and he makes his displeasure known through a series of clicks and chirps that don't mean anything good. Scar just laughs and scratches under his wing in a way he didn't even know would feel nice. Suddenly, he has a few memories surface of when Mumbo found it out, and then all the times Boatem would use it against him. “But I don't know why I woke up early Birdy, just did. Making sure you didn't have another nightmare I guess.”

Scar says the last part and then suddenly he remembers a lot about the dream he had had the night before, it brings up a whole list of questions. Not really the nightmare part, he would be happy to never relive that again, but before that. 

He rolls back until he's smooshing his face into the side of Scars thigh, now using that as his pillow instead. He thinks about him and Mumbo and their apparent past. He has some memories coming up of them being…close. But more like how Scar and him are now and not anything much more. He didn't know that…and he wonders if anyone else did. Clearly Scar had made a joke about it, and now that he's thinking about he definitely had some moments in some past dream memories that are not completely innocent. 

“Whatcha thinkin’ about Birdy, you went quiet. You didn't fall asleep on me again did you?” Scar moves to loom over his face as if checking to see if he really was sleeping. Grian raised his hand up and pushed his face away with a put-on annoyed chirp. Scar laughed as he sat back again and Grians chest felt just a bit lighter.

“I’m just remembering some things I guess.” He explains with a sigh. Things in his life are just becoming more and more complicated as they go on…

“Oh yeah? Like what? Anything about how cool and handsome I was– am.” He quickly amends before Grian could even make that joke. 

“I think I would have to sit and think for a long time to come up with any memories of that…” Grian settles on instead. It has the intended effect of Scar giving a scandalized gasp of offense. “I was actually thinking of Mumbo.” He settles on, before Scar can start a rant. It seems to work as the Hero stops in place, seeming a bit tense. Not the reaction he was thinking he would get, but it does confirm a few things.

“Oh. Yeah, what kind of memories.” He says almost slow, as if choosing his words carefully. 

“Well I’m not really sure. What were we? I remember when Mumbo and I were friends as vigilanties, we were close but not overly so. But we seemed to be…a bit close not too long ago.” 

“You could say that. You both never really settled on a label, so I supposed your memories must be as confusing as it actually was.” Scar jokes, sounding off.

“Huh, well that's interesting. I'll have to talk to him about it when I see him next, then!” He settles on, cause one thing he's not going to do when he has them back is beat around the bush on how much they mean to him. 

“Ha! Then you really are a different Grian!”

“That's what three years will do!” Grian pushes his arms under himself to finally sit up. He doesn't go far, just sitting back next to Scar and leaning on him again much like the night previous. “Looking back, he and I seemed as close as you and I seem now.” He pokes, gauging the reaction. 

“I uh– suppose you could say that…” Scar coughs, cheeks tinting. “I don't know how he would feel about that though. “ He says a bit awkwardly and honestly? Grian never thought of that… Was this a weird way of moving on? Is it moving on if he never knew? That sounds like a whole can of worms to think about when Mumbo is actually in his arms…

Call it scummy, but Grian knows that right now he has Scar to lean on. And while he has very fond memories with Mumbo, he still has to save him. He will, and when he does, then they will have to talk. They will have all the time in the world too. 

“Don't worry about it…” Grian says, leaning more onto Scar. “I think we should focus on the now, not the past or the future.” Scar leans against him as well, letting out a long, heavy sounding sigh. He can feel Scars shoulders relax just a bit, still slightly tense.

“Taking the lessons you've already learned and applying them to other problems, are we?” Scar huffs. 

“I have no idea what you are talking about. I've never learned anything from you ever. Especially not about overcoming my past and accepting things for as they are. I think you are thinking of someone else.” He hums lightly, making Scar bark a laugh at the unexpected little speech. 

“Right…” He giggles, “I’m sure.”

And then they sit in a comfortable silence, a blanket over their laps and nothing really going through Grians mind. Honestly Grian almost thinks he might fall asleep again, slumped into Scar. It was warm, and he could hear his even breathing in a gentle rhythm. 

He wonders what Keralis and the others are up to. Certainly it must've been a spectacle enough after he passed out for them to have brought him all the way back to his room. Hopefully they all went back to rest in their rooms as well. Maybe they will come check on him soon, it feels like something Keralis would do. 

Hopefully nothing bad happened to him either, since Grian had passed out after the whole power thing. He didn't really know what Keralis had felt or gone through. Suddenly he wasn't very tired anymore once the thought hit him. Oh yeah, he has a power. 

It's a pretty important revelation that he thinks he should have a much bigger reaction too (not that immediately passing out wasn't a bit grand, but still.) To be fair to himself though, he kind of already had this whole ‘power crisis’ when he found out he was Watcher. He used to have a power, now it just turns out he has a different power that he's always had.

He knows that he and Scar had kind of talked about it last night before Scar had fallen asleep. He tries to wrap his head around a timeline. Surely there must have been hints or clues that he should've picked up on. He knows that he never showed one at birth, and while most don't, neither of his parents having powers added to the idea that he never expected to have one.

And the more he thinks about it, the more memories surface of him having the invincible wings. It goes to show that really every memory associated with Watcher was gone, including even the memory of when he fell off the monkey bars and found out his wings were invincible. 

Really nothing comes to mind when he tries to think of anything that would tip off the Mimicry. Processing and understanding that he had this power since birth makes the most sense. It must have only come in handy…with Crow… And really the revelation is much more interesting. 

“I must have taken Crows wings…” He speaks out loud, and Scar hums. He doesn't know what the man was thinking about, but honestly he was probably thinking about Grians powers as well. Seems like a hot topic to think about now, and they haven't even left this room yet.

“He was a vigilante long before you and I came along the scene. Disappeared long ago as well. Makes me wonder why he never came forward to confirm the famous Hero Watcher had the same power he did. It would have guaranteed him a job, that's for sure.” Scar inches his hand back into Grians wing absentmindedly. Honestly it seems like the man is making up for lost time at this point, but it's so endearing that Grian doesn't say a word. 

“When he saved me and Pearl I must've just taken it, and since it was the first power, and so much was going on at the time, I didn't even realize. After that I had no need for another power, the wings were good enough…”

“Until…”

“Until.” 

Until that fateful day he truly wished for Scars Luck to escape what was happening. Look where that landed them all. Okay. So maybe he kinda understands where Scar could be coming from when he says he doesn't feel Lucky. 

Sure, Grian had been popped out of the Void, but he also lost most of his family and memories. He was really lucky to get out of the Void, but at what cost already?

“So I’ve been Lucky for about three years then?” He chirps when Scar pulls out a broken feather, it makes Scar laugh at his shocked face, having not anticipated the pluck. 

“I guess so Birdy, off and on I suppose.” He giggles as he tosses the feather to the side. Grian huffs as he flexes his wing to slap him in the face. Did he also get slapped? Yes. But it was worth it. “Ow!” He exclaimed, holding it out long after Grian had put his wing down.

“Drama queen.” Finally, Scar took a deep breath in, looking over to Grian with faux emotion in his eyes.

“I am a queen, thank you.” He put a hand to his chest as Grian pushed his shoulder with a laugh. He was trying to have a serious conversation here! Somehow Scar always ends up derailing every conversation they end up having. 

“What do you mean ‘on and off?’” He says instead of continuing the fight. Scar follows along, giving up the act quickly leaving back onto Grians side and reaching into his wing, of course. 

“Well, I’d assume it works like mine, so you have to turn it on for it to actually work.” Looking over, Grian can see that his eyes are softly glowing like usual. At some point they will really have to talk about that. Like, really talk about it. But much like everything else, it will have to be at some point that is far from now. 

“Have you ever seen my eyes glow?” He asks instead. 

“Well…Not that I’ve noticed.” He looks over to stare in Grians eyes. He can't help but stare back,  the orange is actually really pretty when it's used in a calm setting. Like orange peel or fire, gently twisting around the shades in his iris. 

“Should I try to be Lucky?” He asks dumbly, watching a small smile appear on Scar lips.

“You can try, I think you took it back after you had Keralis’.” He says a bit nervously. Grian remembers how awful it felt to have Keralis’ power, even for that small amount of time. He's pretty sure he's figured out that he can only have one power at a time at the moment. But there was something else there. The hypnosis power just didn't feel right, like it was a square trying to fit in a circle. Maybe…Keralis would know more about that then he would. 

“Yeah, I think so. It feels like I do…” He tries to feel around within himself, feeling for what he felt last night and the other time he took a power. Somewhere in his being under his skin yet sewn into the air around himself. 

“What does my power feel like?” Scar asks, a mix of curious and almost offended. 

“Comfortable.” He replies, distracted. He knows it's around here somewhere! It has to be because he had just felt it last night. “Like it's always been there.”

“Thats– uh, that's…cool.” Scar says and if Grian was paying attention he would've probably seen his cheeks grow a bit pink. But as it stands he's still searching for a certain feeling. 

Maybe he has to actively be wishing he was Lucky? Like how he takes a power, to use it he has to do the same thing. 

Well, as much as he likes right now, he supposed it would be better if things were a little less tense around everyone. If they are going to find Pearl, Impulse and Mumbo then they all have to be working together, and even since they got here it felt like everyone had been at eachothers throats. 

He understands why, but he has always been able to separate things villains do, from who they are as people. He just wishes that everyone would get along, at least enough to find his family. The city is in danger with the Council sending a manhunt after them, and the Association is about to collapse. 

Who is even watching the city right now? Is it so selfish to want to put pride aside and do something for the greater good? Maybe it is…But Grian has given more of himself to this city and Heroes that he thinks he deserves a little selfishness. At this point they would be lucky to even have Iskall on their side.

A sudden gasp interrupts Grians thoughts, focusing his eyes back in to realize that Scar is still staring in his eyes. He looks shocked, yet mesmerized, his own eyes twinkling as he suddenly shifts closer while reaching up to clasp a hand on Grians chin. 

His stomach does a little backflip at how close Scar gets, the man transfixed on his eyes. Then suddenly he must realize what he had done, releasing him and backing an inch up. Still, though, he stares in almost wonder.

“Sorry but, your eyes are glowing, just very very softly. I’m not surprised nobody had ever seen it before!” He smiles wide, seeming excited as he all but bounces in place.

“Are they orange?” Grian can't help but reach up and touch under his eye as if he would be able to tell. It's weird, he doesn't really feel any different while using it. Maybe a slight buzz under his skin, but that could also be the excitement from being right about the power. Oh this is so weird! Grian! Using a power!

“No! You are glowing a dull red! Faintly shining around the brown, like little bolts of lighting zipping around.” His eyes were wide, the orange dimming to a dull, barely perceivable glow. “It practically blends in with your normal eye color…” 

“Oh…” Is the only thought he can muster words behind. This whole time, every shot he made, every shallow escape, every moment that seemed just a little too lucky or involved too much skill, he was just being Lucky. Using the famous Hero HotGuys secret power. 

Surely, he has to remind himself, there had to be some skill in there. Hopefully at least.  He suddenly feels weird… Like somehow sad and depressed. It's suddenly just hitting him what all of this means. He has an insanely rare power, to take other people's powers. He can take any power he wants, barring the fact that Scars just felt the most fitting. Like a glove.

But, he doesn't know what to do with this news. It's surely a good thing, finding out that he does have a power and he never actually lost his invincible wings. They were just replaced with Luck while in the Void. Gods…how was he supposed to go with this?

“I don't know how to use this.” Grian mumbles, pulling himself bad from Scar. Is he supposed to just, know? Sure he has the memories of his last power but that one just stayed on. This isn't like that… What is he supposed to do now?

“What do you mean?” Scar asks, letting Grian look away. 

Before Grian can respond, there's a solid knock on their door. Both of their heads fly over to look at the area of where the sound came from. They didn't knock again, the silence in the room growing. Scar got up first, slipping his feet over the edge and standing up. He takes a step closer to the door, swiping his glasses off the bedside table and placing them on his nose, then walking over to the door quickly. 

He only gave a slight pause, turning his head to look at Grian with a small, if not confused, smile. Slowly he looked back and opened the door, from where he was standing it blocked Grians view. But be noticed how the man seemed to freeze, his shoulders trying to reach up to his ears. 

Now interested, Grian tries to lean over to look around Scar. It doesn't work well, still not able to see around the muscular man, but he doesn't need to look when the person behind the door starts to speak.

“Hey…” Iskall says quite awkwardly, their voice carrying into the room. 

“Well hello there…” Scar cordially says back, dropping his arm off the door knob. He moves over to stand a little off to the side so Grian can actually watch, but not enough to give the intention of letting Iskall walk into the room. “To what do I owe the pleasure?” 

“I don't like you.” They say, the room is filled with silence once more. Grian just blinks blankly as he watches from the sidelines and even though he should be on guard or defending Scar, the longer the silence goes on the more Grian has to hold back a laugh. What a bold thing to say at their door! And right in Scars face too!

“Join at the back of the line, I guess.” Scar finally sighs, hand already pushing the door back closed. That time Grian does let out a little chirp, finding it very funny that Scars one come back was to close the door in their face. 

“Wait!” Iskall forces their hand against the door, keeping it open and pushing it back so they can actually talk with Scar. “I wasn't finished.”

“I don't really know if there's much more to say with that one.” Scar jokes back, sounding a bit tired.

“No, just listen… I–” They hesitate for a moment, Grian thinks that maybe they tried to look over Scar's shoulder to try and look further into the room. But Scar solidly put himself in front of the villain again, blocking their view. Finally, Grian heard them let out a defeated sounding sigh. “I don't like you, but I was out of line.”

Scar seems to be at a loss, much like Grian is feeling right now. They came here to apologize? Like, genuinely apologize to Scar ? Certainly not what he was expecting after what happened yesterday…and also five years ago. 

“I don't forgive you for what happened years ago, but I’ve realized that even if I hurt you that doesn't change who I am now. I’m…sorry, that I tried to hurt you yesterday. I was upset at seeing you again and you didn't even know who I was. With everything going on, I trust in Stress. So if she trusts you, and wants to help you, then I do too. Bygones, be bygones?” Grian sees them shuffle a bit, probably offering a hand to Scar.

To say he's shocked is an understatement. That was a surprisingly well thought out apology, something he was not expecting to ever come from Iskall. Truthfully he thought they were just gonna skirt around each other for the rest of the time Stress was helping them out. Just having to live with the awkward tension everytime they both are in the same room.

He sees Scar take in a shaky breath, seemingly also shocked at the words. The silence stretched on for a moment, neither knowing what to say. This wasn't for, or about Grian, so he felt he really had no right on whether or not he accepted the apology (even if a little bit of himself felt the need, since it was his flock Iskall went after.) Still, it sounded heartfelt enough that Grian feels the need to give the guy a second chance…

Scar is still hesitating, Grian can see that Iskall started to shift back and forth on his feet nervously. Finally Scar gives in. 

“I'm sorry. I'm so sorry about what happened in that fight.” And now Grian understands why it took him so long to speak, he sounds like he's holding in tears. “I…I wasn't thinking about you as a person, just a villain. And– and while I don't re– regret protecting them like I did, I should've trusted Watcher more and not tried to impress. I didn't know the damage I'd cause… so I'm also very sorry.”

He couldn't see Scars face, but based on how rigid Iskall looked, and Scars barely shaking shoulders, he's going to assume there's tears falling down the man's face. It's hard because Grian remembers the aftermath of that fight pretty well, and nobody even considered the fact the Dragon Witch might've been hurt badly. Heroes didn't think about who they hurt when it came to villains, they just did their job.

Grians fully aware of this, it was one of the hiccups he had with HotGuy when they first met. His opinions are different from HotGuys, and they are also different from the opinions of Watcher. He knows he's done a pretty good job of making Scar see the villains as people now, like Doc and Stress. But seeing Iskall is a prime example of what Heroes do to villains when they don't think. Scar was young when he did it, but who knows about any of the villains he's fought recently. 

He can feel himself tearing up at what Scar must be going through and thinking. It's a hard lesson to learn, it sucks that people get hurt in the middle of it, him being one of them now. 

When he was just a Hero, he too had the wrongful ideals upheld by the association. Just do the Heroes duties and be done with the day. Now, he himself has been in the crossfire of Heroes since he was riding the line between the two. He had some pretty bad scrapes and run-ins with them.

“I'm not going to say it's okay, because it's not. But I lived, and you lived. Stress says that it would be better for both of us to let water under the bridge, instead of building a dam. Whatever that means…” Iskall smiles. “We were gonna have a small meeting at dinner to discuss more stuff about taking down the Council. I– Uh… hope to see you there. Both of you…” They look over Scars shoulder to catch eyes with Grian.

They nodded as Grian froze, not having realized Iskall knew they were there the whole time. After a second, he unfroze and nodded back dumbly. They looked back at Scar, the man having been oddly silent but also nodded back to Iskall. The villain gently punches his shoulder then walks away. 

It takes a moment, but slowly Scar closes the door. He stood looking at the closed door for a long moment before taking a deep breath in, squaring his shoulders. Turning around he pulls his glasses into his hair and rubs his face with his hands. A heavy sigh leaves his lips, arms dropping down to his sides. 

Grian moves his legs from under the covers, falling over the edge and placing his feet on the ground. He pushes himself off the nest, walking over to Scar and gently taking the glasses off the top of his head. Folding them, then tossing them onto the bed. 

Looking up he sees Scars watery eyes, trying his best to look okay with a small smile. There's a hitch in his breathing, though he is certainly trying to cover it up.

Grian knows what it feels like to regret the past. Knows what it's like to feel like a whole different person than he was just a few years ago. He can imagine Scar must be in much the similar state.

“You know,” Scar starts, voice cracking in the middle. “You know, I think… I think I'm a bad person.” And tears flow down his cheeks, Grian feels his heart drop. A short sob makes his way out of his throat and he all but collapses into Grians shoulder. 

“What? Where did that come from?” Grian already had his arms around the man leading them over to sit on the beds edge. “They said they forgave you Scar, you aren't a bad person for making mistakes.”

“But I am ! I've done such bad things over and over again.” Suddenly Grian remembers last time he had this conversation with Scar back when they were trapped in the Association cell. A sad coo leaves his throat as he brings his wings around them both, letting Scar continue to breathe heavily into his shoulder.

God's they were such messes. At this point both of them were just taking turns crying about everything. To be fair to themselves though, bottling up emotions for literal years can't be good for anyone. Grian supposes that he should feel lucky that Scar trusts him enough to finally open up about everything. 

“I did it to show off, to try and prove myself to Boatem. I hurt Iskall so bad for such a selfish reason.” He spits out, bordering on hyperventilating. “And even though I was able to apologize to them, it just reminded me of every other villain, real people, I have hurt and I can't ever say sorry.” He's still hiding in Grians shoulder, but he's just talking. Just ranting quickly, broken up every once in a while with a hiccuped breath. 

“I was content that some people hated me. I was told when I became the number one Hero it was just about having a name that made you hateable, it never occurred to me that maybe I was doing things that were worth all the hate. There are so many more people out there that I've hurt as a Hero. You were right that Heroes just hurt people and I'm just so sorry.”

Clearly the comments Grian had made about Heroes and villains hit Scar a lot deeper than he thought they would. He can't even say what Scar is saying isn't true, because it is. But now more than ever he also understands the nuance of the situation. 

Scar had put so much more on his shoulders, more that even the man himself knew about. It's so clear now that Grian can actually see Scar that he was coasting through the last few years. Living life through a small lens of HotGuy and Heroes and doing as he was told. And it's not fair that his world is finally collapsing and he blames himself for it all.

“Did you give yourself the mission to go after Dragon Witch?” Grian asks gently, reaching a hand up to card through Scars hair with his claws.

“No, but–” He tries, but Grian beats him to it.

“After you became HotGuy, did you give yourself the missions to go after high profile villains?”

“I didn't–”

“Or patrols. Can you tell me that every patrol you went on, you did it voluntarily? That you weren't under the watch of the Council to do your job?”

Scar pulls back a little, just to look into Grians eyes. There's barely any orange in the honey brown. 

“I– I was still trying to prove myself…” There's such an immeasurable amount of guilt in his eyes that Grian can't help but tear up too.

“You weren't the one who made you feel like you had to.” ‘It was me.’ The silent thought goes through Grians mind, but he recognizes now is not the time. They've both got demons, honestly more similar than not. But they were getting through it together. There's going to be a long process of healing when they get Pearl, Impulse and Mumbo back too. 

“It's a lot more complicated than just blaming ourselves for what we went through. There's so much more to it, and when I said all that about Heroes and villains I didn't get it yet. I don't blame you Scar, not anymore. And I'm sure most will forgive you given the chance.” He gives him a soft, hopefully reassuring smile.

Scar answers him in kind with a smile of his own, watery, but kind. 

“We are both such messes.” He laughs, one arm letting go of Grian to wipe his face. Grian helps with the effort, raising his hand to swipe a tear off his cheek.

“That's what I was thinking! Copy-cat.” Scar leans his face back onto Grians shoulder, arms tucking themselves around the Avians waist. Grian follows suit, the pair no longer crying but still hugging softly. 

“Gods, what are we going to do when we get the others back? We are barely fun– fu– func– tion– ing, the way it is.” He stumbles a bit. 

Grian has been trying to push that thought away honestly. Everytime he even thinks about what the plan would even look like to save Boatem, a pit of anxiety grows in his chest. The fact of the matter is, they don't have a plan. They had half a plan, which was to get some help. But now they have that help, and no rest of the plan. 

But they have still always believed that they will find a way to get them back. Grian himself is living proof it's possible. They just don't know how yet.

“I'd hope by that point we'd have multiple therapists waiting on site.” Grian jokes instead of letting out his greatest worry. It gets a hearty chuckle from Scar directly into his ear. His aural feathers flap, smacking the Hero in the face. “Ack!”

Grian couldn't help but laugh as Scar spits out an errant feather into his hand. The Hero groans as he tosses it onto the floor, Grian giving a faux saddened coo. He gets smacked by his wings so often, but he never learns. 

“Oh please! You have enough feathers as it is!” Scar jokes, finally letting go of Grian and pulling back. He doesn't go very far, thighs and shoulders still touching, but no longer almost in Grians lap.

“But I liked that one!”

“How would you know? You have thousands!” He waved his hands around looking towards the sky. Grian can still see the sadness in his features, the lines a little too deep in his face and a smile that doesn't quite reach the eyes. But, he's still laughing. He continues going on a tangent that Grian isn't really listening too, but just watching as the Hero speaks.

They both are so damaged by the last three years, and they aren't even done yet. He doesn't even have half the story of what Scar had been through as the number one Hero, nor does Scar really know what Grian did as a vigilante. He suspects there's always going to be some open wounds that the other hasn't seen yet… Hopefully those don't get shown when they are in need of a straight head…

Ugh, he's not looking forward to this meeting. Well, taking stock of himself Grian knows he is both dreading but also excited for it. Any new information is good information at this point. Hopefully they won't have to move again, this place was nice…

Actually, speaking of nice…

“Hey,” Grian interrupted Scar. “I think we could both relax a little bit.”

“We were literally just sleeping, but alright.” Scar responds with a smile. 

“Well half of that was a nightmare so… I know we just went, but do you maybe…wanna go back swimming? And the hot springs?” He asks, thinking it would be a great way to calm them both down more.

“Birdy,” Scar says seriously, but with his stupidly alluring smirk. “You had me at ‘hey.’” Grian gives an excited chirp hopping off the bed. And in a flurry of motion, they were out the door.

Chapter Text

They ended up spending most of the day in the hot springs, not really doing much, just relaxing and talking about nothing. There was a lot about each other that they both still didn't know, even after Grian got his memories back. But, even as Grian sat next to Scar under his arm, both of them had most of their past tucked close to their chest. 

Being as comfortable around each other as they are now, Grian doesn't ever feel like he has to say anything, and he knows Scar feels the same. Sure, maybe they would have more things to talk about if he did talk about growing up in an orphanage, but it's way more fun to splash him with his wing before running away and then jumping into the large pool. Of course Scar couldn't let such an offense go, so he pursued. And thus led them duking it out in the pool again. 

It took a long while before the two were tired enough to trek over to the small little snack-bar-thing Stress had set up in an empty corner. It had gone unnoticed previously, but now that they were close to famished, it was really the best case scenario.

It wasn't stocked with much, just some non-perishable foodstuffs as well as drinks. Under the counter were even more towels and clothes, everything looking close to untouched. It was still crazy to Grian that Stress just had all of this stuff. Was there a point to having a snack bar down here? Probably not, but she did anyway and honestly he was grateful she did cause now they got to use it.

Grian couldn't help but wonder how much use this place got though. Now, Grian can realize that this large room was probably once for when Iskall would shift fully into a dragon and needed a place to go. But now that they can’t… surely this cave didn't get that much use anymore. That begs the question, was Stress expecting company?

After eating their fill of some dry cereal and fruit bars, they ended up going back to a little pool a far walk from the entrance. It was a pool that wasn't hot, but not cold either so it was perfect to just sit in, pleasantly warm.

When they dipped in, Grian had taken to leaning against Scar under his arm almost immediately. The Hero held him close so he could get a good reach into Grians wing, he's sure. Either way, the two practically dozed for a good few more hours. 

Grian was only slightly surprised that nobody came to look for them the whole day. Not even Keralis, who Grian assumed either had a lot of questions or a lot of answers. Mostly likely both, knowing him. To be fair to them all, it is entirely possible they were just hard to find if they were being sought out. They had left their room that oring, and then just never went back…

This is nice, though. It's nice to just be, instead of something happening. It feels nice to just sit and not have to think about anything going on around them, even if just for the day. He feels himself let out a heavy sigh, a coo following behind. Scar pulled him a bit closer, firmly scritching his wing.

“Tired from your day of doing nothing?” Scar asked, a smirk practically dripping from his words. Grian rolled his eyes, grumbling wordlessly sinking lower in the water under Scars arm. Scars hand slips out of his wings as Grian keeps going until his nose is just above the water. His ears are submerged, but he can still hear Scar laughing. The water rippling around his stomach towards Grians face. 

Then, Grian ducks fully under the water. It's not easy to do, the pool only being about four feet deep. But somehow he's able to drag himself and his wings fully underwater. He's not quite sure why he decided to do this. It'll be annoying to air dry his wings again and he forgot to put his hair up so now it's flowing everywhere. 

Maybe the reason is just because it's so quiet under the water. That isn't to say that he's annoyed at Scar for talking, or that the room they are in is particularly loud. It's just so quiet. There's no anything, which is great when compared to the rest of the world right now. 

There's so much yet to do.

Suddenly he felt hands on his shoulders, pulling him up and up until his head breached the water. He took a deep breath in, forgetting that he kinda had to do that. He looked up to see a slightly concerned looking Scar. The man's eyes a soft honey orange color, head tilted softly to the side observing Grian. 

“You never answered if you're still tired. You can't sleep underwater, Birdy.” He lightly jokes, pulling them both to sit down again. Grian just yawns, stretching his sodden wings out as far as they could go taking Scar with them. “Ack!”

Grian just felt in some sort of mood right now. A little to sharp, yet rounded off. Buzzing, but relaxed. This all culminated into his favorite way of being: annoying. This usually happened when he was out on the streets, avoiding Heroes left and right until he ran into HotGuy, who he would annoy for fun. 

There was a faint splash as he lowered his wings back into the water. Scar looked a bit worse for wear, now completely soaked to the bone clinging to the edge of the pool with a dazed look. Grian couldn't help but let out a chirpy giggle.

“Watch where you wave those things!” He spits out a feather, one errant one stuck in his hair. “How does one always land in my mouth?” He all but whines.

“You never learn!” Grian can't help reply back, still laughing. Still he wades over to the sulking Hero and reaches up to take hold of the feather. It's one of the more red looking fathers from further down his wings, towards the tip. Scars eyes cross as Grian holds it between his fingers showing it to him. It makes him laugh more, knowing that Scar is just being as dramatic as always. Suddenly though, he reaches up and takes the feather from Grian, placing it behind his ear.

“Maybe I wanted it there! Ever thought of that huh?” He says, still pouting.

“Oh yes, I’m sure you also meant to get hit as well then?”

“Well hold on now…” And Grian is back to laughing, head pulled back and eyes closed. He could feel his wings flutter along with him, and then hear as Scar just chuckled along with him. Slowly, he goes to sit back down next to Scar, the pair still giggling a bit as Scar ropes his arm back around Grians shoulder. He goes to reach into his wings again, but seems to catch on Grians hair, now hanging around his shoulders. 

“Do you usually keep it this long?” He asks, hand curling around the strands and pulling them behind Grians aural feathers. Grian just shrugs, wings twitch and Scar starts to card his fingers through his hair absently. 

“I’m due for a cut I think. I remember waking up with it pretty short, but after a while searching for Pearl and them, cutting it slipped my mind. But I started to actually like the look of it so I kept it.” He hums. 

“It's certainly different from what you used to wear, I'll say that!” Scar drops his back to his wing and Grian has to pretend that he's not a little upset about it. 

“Well, that was when I had some dumb philosophy about keeping hair short so it wasn't used against you.” There were some memories there about getting after Pearl on keeping it up and out of the way.

“Oh you used to be so mad that I wouldn't keep it up all the time! You’re lucky I agreed to a braid!”

“I wasn't Lucky then, remember.” Grian says cheekily. 

“You know what I mean!” 

“Yeah, yeah.” He drawls with a smirk. “Whatever you say. Anyway, I usually put it up just to look neater. Plus, CuteGuy now has the signature bun according to Cubs documents.” That for some reason gets a reaction from Scar, the man stiffening at his side going completely still. 

Grian feels his own heart drop for a second. Did he say something wrong? Or did he see something in the cave? Grian finds himself searching around with his eyes just in case there was something around them. There was nothing but cave wall in front of them, a layer of soft moss clinging to the side. Looking up at Scar, Grians finds his eyes wide, a burning orange glowing brightly. What did he say?

“Scar, whats–”

“Cub. Where was Cub?”

Oh. Scar had a point, Grian hadn't even thought about that. Where is Cub? He wasn't at the meeting with all the Heroes and villains, and they didn't see him around the halls either. He had tried to think of the last moment he saw the man outside of the hero tower as well, and came up with nothing. To be honest, Grian doesn't really remember the last time he saw the man. Grian has to admit he's immediately filled with disappointment… Sure Grian didn't know Cub for long but he truly thought he was trustworthy. 

It was clear the man meant a lot to Scar, since he seemed to be the only one he was closest to the last couple of years (no matter how sad that thought makes him, considering that Cub had to hang around Scar since they were, at least in the beginning, coworkers. But still.) 

Looking at Scar he can see the almost stricken look of his face; contemplative and chewing on his lip as he stares into the water just thinking. He must be considering the same thing as Grian, the possibility that Cub might be on the wrong side.  

Surely the man wasn't on the side of the Council, right? It doesn't feel right since how much Scar trusted the Vex. When Grian first became a Hero, before he had got his memories back, he was introduced to all the other Heroes and Cub. Then, his memories are returned to him and he realizes that he knew everyone, except Cub. 

Cub hadn't worked for the Association when he was Watcher, and from every interaction they've had so far he would like to think that Cub is an easy person to read. But he can't ignore that the man felt almost secretive upon their first meeting. 

“Do you think Cub is with the Council?” Grian asks, almost hesitating but definitely quiet. 

“I don’t–” He goes to respond, but is interrupted by a slightly muffled voice.

“I wouldn't worry about Cub, Scar. He's on our side.” They said, sounding from behind them. It makes them both jump, the water splashing where Grians wings twitch. Turning around, Grian immediately recognized the armor of Xisuma who was walking closer with even steps. Distantly he is a little surprised to not see Keralis in toe. “But we can talk more about that in the meeting you two are late for.”

He stops before the edge of the pool, looking down at the pair with hands on his hips. He hears Scar let out a deep breath at his side prompting Grian to look back at him instead of Xisuma. 

“But he’s okay?” Scar asks, sounding soft and worried. 

“He’s alright, I promise.” Xisuma answers, the shock of the man finding them wearing off and now turning into confusion. 

“Not to push that aside but, how did you find us?” Grian asks, pulling away from Scar so he could stand. He stretches his hands over his head, feeling the weight of his wings pull at his shoulders. 

“There weren't many places for you guys to go, Grian…” He answers while taking a step back as both Grian and Scar pull themselves out of the pool. They had set out towels earlier, Scar going to grab one and dry off while Grian took several steps back. He was an asshole, but not that much. That being said, he did start to shake out his wings, much like a dog would, without any warning to the person closest to him: Xisuma. 

The man put his arms up as if to cover his face even with the helmet on. He groaned as Grian laughed, accepting the towel from Scar. He even pretended to not see the smirk on his face. Luckily, it seemed most of the water was expelled from his wings so that he wouldn't need to get a blow dryer involved, but it would definitely take a while to air dry.

“Very funny, Grian…” Xisuma said, trying to sound less-than-pleased. But Grian is certain he can hear a little smile behind the mask. 

“I thought so!” He laughed as he rubbed at his hair. 

“Let Birdy and I change and then we can be ready for this totally fun and wanted meeting!” Scar chirped with a plastered smile. He was lightly pushing Grians shoulder to get him to move closer to the changing room door. He followed along easily, ready to get out of his wet clothes anyway. 

It didn't take them long to get changed into more of Stress’ extra clothes (Grian only vaguely mourned his old clothes. He never thought he would care so much about both the clothes he wore that were Scars, but also the ones that Cub had given to him) and be on their way. 

Xisuma didn't say much more as he led them through the hallways into the decided meeting room. It was the same one from the other day, now less ominous given that he was no longer really concerned for whether or not they were safe here. 

A few people were already sitting concentrated on the left side of the table. Of course Stress and Iskall were sitting next to each other, but Doc was also there. The three of them seemed to be discussing something over a folder of papers. Grian couldn't hear what they were saying, but Docs deep chuckle echoed around the room, so it must not be anything bad. 

For some reason, Grian also noted that Bdubs was also there, the man having an animated conversation with the person to his right. He was being loud, but something told Grian that he didn't really know that. He was dressed in the typical mossy cloak, hood down with a red bandanna holding his bangs back. Around his neck was a gold chain with a large ornate clock hanging on his chest. 

What was a little surprising though, the person he was talking to was Keralis. The man was wearing a pleasant smile considering the pale complexion on his face. Grian also noticed the clearly covered up dark circles under his eyes, like the poor man hadn't slept the night before. Grian hoped that he wasn't the reason the man might've lost some sleep…

Just as the thought crosses his mind, Xisuma clears his throat to get the room's attention. Everyone dropped what they were talking about to look up at them, Grian feeling a little embarrassed at the attention, like always. 

He takes a breath to center himself for a moment. He feels alright. After the day that he has had, he feels much more relaxed and ready to get back into heavy topics. That's not to say he doesn't immediately feel the tension though. 

Both him and Scar take a seat beside each other, across from Keralis and Bdubs. The table went quiet, Grian realizing (mostly because he was trying to look anywhere else except at the people in the room) that there were actually plates of sandwiches in the center. He supposes that he did hear Iskall say that this meeting was supposed to be taking place over dinner. And sandwiches, while stereotypically a lunch food, Grian couldn't find it in himself to complain. 

“Well, migh’ as well git started! Eat up an’ we’ll talk through it.” Stress stated, reaching over and taking a paper plate and placing one of the sandwiches on it. The rest followed suit, Scar going ahead and just taking two and passing one to Grian. He took it with a smile, Scar rolling his eyes as if it wasn't something to even be thanked for. 

He takes a bite, some sort of turkey or chicken or something. It tasted good so he wasn't really going to pick it apart to find out really what it was. 

“Who made these?” Scar asked kindly, making idle conversation. Or at least trying to.

“Stressy.” Keralis answered before anyone else. Grian watched as the man was trying to get Xisuma to eat some of the sandwich in his hand through the mask. It wasn't working out very well, as he wouldn't take off the helmet.

“Well it is very good Stress, thank you!” After pointing it out the rest of the group followed in compliments and thank yous.

“Aw no problem! I though’ something simple would be best, so it didn’ take very long.”

“Still good, is this chicken?” Doc asked, finishing his off. 

“Yup!” She smiled.

“Should G even be eating this then?” Bdubs piped up, “Like, ethically.” 

Grian squawked, both out of not having expected to be brought up in conversation but also at the topic. He felt his wings twitch as the others laughed as he squinted at Bdubs from across the table.

“What's that supposed to mean?”

“You know! Bird eating bird?” He drawled, looking at the rest of the table occupants seeing if anyone shared his sentiment. Grian could tell he was trying to be funny, it was in his wide eyes. Honestly he also thought it was a funny question too, one that he's not unused to hearing, but still he wanted to mess with Bdubs a bit.

He purposefully chittered lowery, getting the man's attention. Right as Bdubs looked at him curiously with his large doe eyes, Grian maintained eye contact as he slowly took a large bite into his chicken sandwich. 

“I’m a partial carnivore.” He said after swallowing with a huge smile, the reply sounding much scarier than it is. 

“Wow, that's terrifying!” Bdubs answered with the same energy. The rest of the table laughed along as well. Grian chuckled as well, listening to Scar laugh while shaking his head in faux disapproval. 

“What! It's true! Cardinals are omnivores!”

“I don't know what that means and I don't think I want to!” Bdubs answered, getting an abashed look from Doc. The arguably-a-scientist looked like he was somehow personally offended at the mossy man's own lack of knowledge. 

From there it devolved into a light argument about what was and was not common knowledge, and whether or not Bdubs had it. Grian listened quietly as they all laughed and yelled at each other wondering why he was ever worried that these people would be mad at him. He knows the Heroes and the villains, and that is something that most people can't say. He knows that they have always been more similar to each other than they have ever been different. 

Sadly though, the lighthearted banter can't be the only reason for a meeting tonight. They do have actual things they need to talk about and unfortunately he should've known that he himself was going to be the first ticket up and on the docket. 

Xisuma once again cleared his throat, the Hero never had eaten anything but Grian knew he probably would when he was alone later. Everyone else had finished their dinner, turning to look at Xisuma and stopping their own conversations. He had a folder next to him and Grian didn't even want to guess what was in it. He would probably overthink it too much if he tried. 

“I think we should probably start this off by talking about what this meeting is about. The people in this room are people that we believe can help come up with a plan to possibly take down or at least expose the Hero Association for what they've been doing.”

Grian would be lying if he said his heart didn't drop a little at that. He knew at some point that this is where everything was heading. Of course the Heroes (at least the good ones) were going to want to do something about what they had learned about the Association. But Grian had been down this path already and it didn't end well last time. 

“Shouldn't the others be here for this then? Surely more heads are better than just us few…” Scar brought up, also sounding nervous. 

“Yes, and of course they will all be involved, but for right now this group is all committed to taking down the Council or has good information on the details of what they've done.” Grian doesn't know, but it feels like Xisuma looked at him when he said that. “A few others need time to think, and everyone else would make it harder to have a productive meeting. This is just to get as many facts as we can, and go from there.”

He paused, giving time for someone to ask any questions but everyone stayed quiet. 

“Overall,” Doc started, “We know that the Council has corrupted other Heroes into their little drug operation scheme. The best way to beat them at this game is to create the antidote so we can make sure that they can't either inject us with it, or themselves.” 

“And where are we on that?” Iskall asked, gaining a gruff sound from the creeper hybrid.

“Not any better really. Everything is eluding me, it feels like this drug is somehow ever changing, yet just the same.”

“We can get Etho,Tango and Zedaph to take a look with you. They aren't the best with these things but maybe some fresh eyes can help.” Xisuma suggests. 

Grian suddenly feels a gentle tugging on his sleeve. Looking over he sees Scar looking down at him with curious eyes.

“Do you remember anything about whether Mumbo was looking for the antidote?” He asks under everyone else. Grian scrunches his eyebrows together, confused at the question for a moment. 

“I know he was working on one for sure, but I don't know anything about it at all.” He says thoughtfully. Did he know something? Truly, he was the only person in the room who might have any more knowledge on this subject then the rest of them did. But Watcher was so careful about what all their parts were in their plan. 

“Did you have anything Scar?” Stress asks kindly, curious sounding. 

“Grian says that we know Mumbo was working on an antidote…before.” He hesitates with his last word. “But neither of us have any idea on where that went.” And suddenly that sparks something. His nightmare the night before, well, before it was a nightmare it was something else.

“No wait.” Grian hears himself say, still combing through the memory to try and figure out what was relevant and which wasn't. It all had started normally, like the other memory revealing dreams did. Clearly at some point it got all distorted, so was what he remembered truly even real? Worth a shot, he guessed. “I think he did have a complete antidote. Or it was close I just… I told him to hide it.” He suddenly feels a bit daft for even speaking, since it doesn't even help. He feels himself slump back in his chair a bit. 

“You don't remember where it is, or you know he hid it.” Xisuma says and Grian can tell hes trying to sound casual, but it definitely sounds strained. Looking at the faces around the rest of the room he can also see Doc clenching his jaw and Stress and Iskall giving him a slightly weird look. Bdubs seems very interested and Keralis is giving him a kind smile. His insides twist at that, still not wanting to think about everything that happened with him. 

“I remember telling him to hide it, in case any of us got caught alone the Council couldn't… uh– force… the information out of us. He must have been really close cause the night before we were taken was the day before we were going to go public.” He feels like he's divulging a secret that he's not supposed to tell. Like it was something that was supposed to be between just him and Scar, but he just spilled it out to everyone. 

The silence felt incredibly loud…

“Okay so, Doc should keep working on finding his, but maybe we should try and figure out where Mumbo was keeping his.” Keralis said, breaking the quiet. It was still a moment before anyone else spoke again. 

“I think that is a good idea. We can't really do much against the Council unless we have that antidote to MooPop.” Xisuma adds.

“I have a question!” Bdubs speaks up for the first time since the meeting started. “Why can't we just take out the Council, and then get the antidote? Wouldn't they not be able to make anymore with them gone?” 

“We don't really know who all are involved with this scheme. Sure, the Council is running it, and a lot of Heroes are in it, but taking out the Council first would just scatter the rest. If we have the neutralizer first, then at least we have something to lord over them all. Plus, it can’t be used against us.” Doc answers easily, and honestly Grian was thinking the same question so he was glad it was answered. Sure, he was the one who first came up with the original plan all those years ago, but like most memories from years past, it was a bit blurry.

“So basically, we need the antidote first?” He asks and Grian can tell he's going somewhere, but he can't tell where. 

“I would be a great help, yes.”

“So let's ask the man himself, then!” And just like that everyone in the room was shocked into stillness. Did… did he know nothing of anything that was going on? That sounds mean but, seriously did Bdubs really just say that? Sure they were making fun of him earlier for not having common knowledge but come on. 

It reminds him of when Scar had to explain the disappearance of Boatem when he first became a Hero (oh how long ago that felt.) Scar had asked if he lived under a rock, and to be fair, at the time, he kind of did. It makes him question whether or not Bdubs also lived under a rock…

“Bdubs. What the fuck–” Grian goes to say, but is interupted by Keralis.

“Bubbles, I don't know if you know this. But Mumbo, as well as the rest of Boatem, is kind of lost in the Void.” He says with strained kindness. A great out for the excitable man to back peddle his way into social repair. Keralis must truly be a saint of a person to ask him a question like that so kindly. 

“I know!” He crosses his arms as if he was offended. “Let's go in, and ask him where he put it.”

There were a few murmurs around the room, most turning to the side to talk with the person beside them. Grian didn't even move, confused at what the hell Bdubs was trying to say. It wasn't until Doc started talking that Grian realized that the man was serious. 

“No, let's hear the little guy out,” Doc leaned back in his chair and crossed his arms. He had a small smirk on his face, clear that he was trying to embarrass the short man further. “And how do you suggest we do that?” Doc chimes in, almost sounding angry but held back. 

“Hey! I’m not small! Void, do I really have to spell everything out? Y’all have the most incredible powers in the city and you forget you can use ‘em!” He shouts, as if he wasn't sounding completely nuts. Looking around the table again, Grian isn't the only one wholly confused, even Scar looked like he was seconds from stepping out. For a guy who's only contact with them, Cleo and Joe, arent even here, he's sounding very cocky. 

“I think we might, hun.” Stress placed her hand on the table and leaned a bit closer to Bdubs, sounding overly kind, like Keralis. 

“Well,” Bdubs clicks his tongue, “We've all heard by now about Mr. Mimic over here,” He points to Grian, who felt his heart just about pop out of his chest. He flinched back, a small cheep falling from his lips that went unheard of by everyone but Scar, who reached down and grabbed his hand. Bdubs just continued excitedly and obviously on. “Now here me out, Grian takes on a power like Keralis’ and then we have Xisuma open a portal. If we tie a rope to Grian and send him in along with Scar, who has Luck, then he should be able to find all the Boatem members!”

“Woah hold on–” Stress tries to but in, but the shorter man continues.

“We could even maybe get them all out too. That would depend on your Luck though… Honestly this sounds like the best option really.”

“Bdubs.” Grian twitters through gritted teeth. Still the man continues. 

“Of course we would probably need a few more people to help us out. Make sure nothing goes wrong.” He muses, not even reading the room a little bit. Grian feels barely restrained anger pulsing through his veins at the lax way of talking through all of this. 

Looking around the rest of the room, he's not the only one. Xisuma looks frozen in place, fists resting on the table. Keralis lays his hands on his, trying to get him to unclench his hand, but the masked man stays still.

“Bdubs, stop! Just–” And finally the man looks up from his little speech as Scar all but shouts his name. “Just stop talking for a second. How do you know about any of what you just said? Xisuma's powers and mine? Who even are you?”

Scar sounds mean in Grians ears. The last question sounded harsh, and rude, but Grian found that he himself held the same sentiment. While he knows that Cleo and Joe chose him for a reason, the fact that Bdubs just came to this meeting alone, and starts saying all of these things that were meant to stay secret, comes off as extremely suspicious. 

Out of all ways he expected this meeting to go, this was not it. How do they always end up devolving into a fight? Bdubs is saying a lot of things, and assuming a whole bunch more. It feels like this random guy that Cleo and Joe picked up forced himself into their plans. 

“I've never told anyone about that, so how do you know?” Xisuma all but whispered. 

And finally Bdubs looked a little sheepish, pulling his arms back in and leaning back in his chair. 

“Do you not… Did they not tell you what I can do?” 

“I think we are all just about as lost as we can get. So you should probably start explaining.” Iskall spoke up. Grian felt somehow grateful for Iskall for the first time, silently thanking the villain for being level headed when he felt about three feet to the left of his body. He couldn't imagine how the rest of them were getting on, especially Xisuma. 

“I thought Cleo would've told you guys by now, I–” He cuts off abruptly, looking hastily around the room as if finally catching onto the tension. “I’m a high level dream walker.” He finishes, as if that too isn't just a bomb to be dropped. But Still Bdubs isn't done speaking. “With a low ability to manipulate time. After you guys told the story of what happened at the meeting a few days ago, everyone can't stop dreamin’ about it! And I can’t just go to sleep and not end up there… ” He seemed a little proud, yet hesitant. Grian felt a bit sick. “I can’t really do anything while in the dreams… I just watch…so…yeah.” 

“I–” Xisuma was at a loss for words, much like Grian who squeezed Scar's hand even tighter.

Bdubs had seen it too. He had gone and watched the worst day of most of their lives and was talking about it so casually. Out of everyone in this room, only three were intrinsically tied to what happened that night, and only one knew from witnessing it. Well, now two. But at least with Keralis he had permission first. 

Grian has to remind himself that it's not completely Bdubs fault; he didn't know how fresh the wound felt for them nor did he mean to watch those dreams. While it did happen years ago, they only now just remembered it happening, so the memories were new. 

Bdubs must've seen either his or Xisuma dreams recently to get the context for what he knows. Maybe even Keralis since Grian is pretty sure that Keralis saw Xisuma's memory of what happened when he unlocked his memories as well. He wouldn't be surprised if Keralis was also having nightmares of what he saw from either of their memories. 

“Okay, first ov’ all, I tink tha’ maybe we should ‘ave a bit ov’a break. Bdubs, honey, come talk wif me.” Stress spoke kindly, but firm. She stood up and pushed her chair in. Nobody moved, including Bdubs. “Outside, Bdubs.” She clarified, and the man finally stood and followed her out. 

They were left in silence, Doc and Iskall looking almost pained by having to endure what just happened. Keralis quickly turned to Xisuma and was talking to him in a low enough voice that Grian couldn't really make out what was being said. He felt before he heard Scar lean over to do the same to him. 

“Are you okay?” He asks softly, pulling Grians hand into his lap. “I don't know what he was thinking…”

“I think he wasn't, to be fair.” Grian jokes lightly. “I’m…okay. I’m more worried about Xisuma and you right now. He just told them all your powers…” He was definitely deflecting how much this was upsetting him, but it's true that he does feel more worried for the other two. 

“It was bound to happen for me anyways, but you’re right.” He sighs, turning to look across the table at the pair huddled talking in low voices. He paused, Grian could tell that he was contemplating something. His head moved back and forth as he thought, almost like a dog. “What do you think of that plan though? Ignoring everything else that just happened,” Grian can help but snort at the way he says that despite everything, Scar smiles back. “Do you think going into the Void would work? I don't like the idea of you going back there.” He adds the last part quietly, as if not wanting Grian to hear it. 

“I think it's ridiculous to just assume that we would be on board with it. It sounds dangerous and dumb… But also kind of smart in a way. If we truly need Mumbos work first, then that might be the only way to find out where it is.” He admits, feeling anxiety continue to bubble in his stomach. 

“You don't look like you believe that.” Scar whispers. Grian can see the doubt on his face, along with his own anxiety at everything going on. He can't help but sigh at being read so easily by Scar. 

“I– I don't want to go back…” He says quietly, that being the end of that discussion for now. He leans over the side of his chair until his forehead is resting against Scars shoulder, the Hero huffing a short laugh before leaning his head on top of Grians. 

“I am so sorry!” Someone shouts from the door behind them. It makes them all jump as Bdubs speeds around the table and back to his chair with an urgent expression. “I didn't– I wasn't thinking! I thought you guys had already talked about powers and while yeah the public wouldn't know, I thought privately everyone knew. That's no excuse though, I should have been more careful! I’m so sorry…” He stunned everyone into silence, his face betraying that he truly was sorry. 

Slowly, nervously, Grian can't help but start to laugh. Quietly at first and then slowly gaining traction until he's genuinely laughing at the situation in front of him. Why has everything become so incredibly ridiculous but also so important and life threatening? Bdubs just aired out their combined biggest trauma (luckily, it was only to three trustworthy people) and then when confronted with that fact, he apologizes so viciously because he truly was just a fool. They were worried that he worked for the Council or something but no. He's just an idiot. 

Scar reaches over and starts to pet his wings in an effort to smooth them over. He isn't laughing, nor is he smiling. He almost looks concerned as Grian slowly rains in his little fit. 

“Sorry, sorry. This whole meeting has just been a bit ridiculous.” He shakes his head, relaxing into Scar's hand. He probably looked a bit crazy, laughing at something so serious, but maybe he deserves a moment to be a bit off his rocker. 

“I think…I think we should get back on topic…after that.” Xisuma speaks up.

“‘Suma–” Bdubs goes to start, only for Keralis to put his hand up to stop him.

“It's okay Bubbles, what's done is done and what's revealed is revealed. Let's just continue from where we left off using the information that we all know.” He smiles no unkindly, and not for the first time Grian realizes Keralis is way too kind, even if it's a bit put on. 

Bdubs slumps down in his chair folding his hands on the table. He looks a bit sad, the first time Grian has seen a truly negative emotion on his face. But Keralis is right, what's done is done and there's no reason to hold any more grudges (even if he kind of wants to, if only for Scars sake.)

“I think we should give more thought into Bdubs’ idea.” A sudden voice says from across the room. Everyone including Grian snapped their necks to look over to find a comfortable looking Etho sitting at the head of the table on the other side. How long had he even been there?

“When did you even get here?” Grian voices his thoughts, somehow impressed and also annoyed at how Etho can just appear. 

“A while ago, nobody noticed.” He said, pointing out the obvious before moving right over it. “I think we should work on the antidote first, and if Mumbo has a completed one, then finding that would be the smartest thing to do.”

“This sounds like a goose chase.” Doc chimes in finally. “We don't even know if we can find it.”

“Well, playing devil's advocate, you wanted all of us to work together. Here we are together, so let's work.” Iskall started. “What would need to happen to make that idea work?” They look over to Bdubs, the man still sulking a bit. He lights up when being addressed and Grian already wants to just move on from this idea.

“Well, my first thought would be that Grian would just have Scars Luck. Xisuma would open a portal, and Grian would jump in and Luckily stumble upon the crew. He could either pull them out or at least talk with them...” He mumbles, the plan clearly not having been as thought out as he made it out to seem. 

And boy did that plan sound so simple on paper. It also excluded several problems that, if Bdubs would've talked to them first, they could have cleared up. 

“First off,” Scar started, sounding forcibly kind. “You should know from these dreams you saw, Xisuma doesn't like to use his power. He's already said that he can't open a portal like that for long.” 

Exactly. Grian is glad that Scar can almost read his mind. 

“Then I freeze time while it's open. That way it’ll just stay open without him having to use the energy for it.” Bdubs offers and Grian feels his wings twitch and eyes squint. That's a good solution and Grian doesn't like it. He doesn't want to do this, but doesn't have a non-selfish reason…

“Okay well,” Keralis spoke next, not letting Scar continue. “The Void doesn't work like that anyway. The longer you stay in the Void, the more you lose but also the less you realize. Most likely, Boatem will be asleep and so far scattered apart it would be impossible even with all the Luck in the world.” He sounded confident in the words he was saying, but Grian knew that it was information that he had to have gotten from Xisuma. Nobody knows much about the Void other than Voidwalkers, so Keralis is speaking on behalf of Xisuma since the man himself is still sitting there in silence. 

“That, and the Void's time works differently. You may freeze time here, but certainly not there.” He finishes.

“Okay. Yes, that.” Scar stutters out, not having expected that much Void knowledge. 

“Okay… The time freezing thing wouldn't be an issue though. Wouldn't that be better since he's trying to find them anyway?” Etho spoke lazily. Grian was getting a little annoyed at how everyone just assumed that he was okay with this plan. His heart was beating a bit heavy. He had to do this huh?

“Yes! We would only need him to open it for a second and I would be able to freeze it for at least an hour.” Bdubs sends Etho a grateful look.

“But if they are asleep, how are we supposed to talk to Mumbo?” Scar asked. Hand stilling in Grians wing. 

“Well…” Bdubs didn't seem to have an answer to that, and Grian felt hope flutter in his chest a bit. But then it was just as crushed again as the man's large eyes landed on him, widening. “Well, G can just take my power! He can go in and then hop through their dreams. He wouldn't be able to get them out that way but… he would at least be able to talk to Mumbo.”

“You just said that you could only watch when in dreams. How is Grian supposed to talk with them if he can only watch? Plus, instead of G taking on a new power, why can't you go then?” Scar asks, a bit snipped. He seems touchy as he sends glaces to his side at Grian, as if he can feel his anxiety while sitting next to him. 

“It's just an idea…” Bdubs weakly defended. 

“It…It has some merit.” Xisuma hesitantly said, shocking them all. 

“Shaswham you don't have too–”

“No listen… As much as I don't like my powers, Bdubs has a point. Grian was spit out of the Void in a way that is unheard of because of his Luck. With Bdubs freezing time, and Grian having both Scars Luck and Bdubs Dreamwalking power then the chances of him finding at least Mumbo are pretty high. Plus, it would let us know if…if they are still alive. Bdubs can't do it because not only would the Luck not be there, but the Void is a different plane. His power wouldn't work unless he stepped in, which without the Luck we can't guarantee he will come back.” He points out sounding a little more put together and like a leader the longer he speaks. Grian is getting a little nervous that they might actually agree to go forward with this plan. 

“And!” Bdubs hurries to point out, “You said you told him to hide the antidote so it doesn't fall into the wrong hands. He doesn't know me, so even if I was able to talk with him, he probably wouldn't trust me.” And Grian hates how much that makes sense. 

“I– I don't think I can take more than one power at a time.” He tries to explain, his wings fluttering in anxiety under Scar hand still combing through the feathers. 

“Well…I think I can answer that for you.” Keralis spoke up, tired eyes landing on Grian. “After yesterday I think I know more about your power. You could certainly take on more powers, but you would just have to really focus. And since I know what it feels like, I think I could actually help this time.” Grian tries not to feel guilty, he really does, but the dark circles under his eyes aren't helping. 

“Won’t– I might lose my memories again?” He phrases it like a question, even though it's a very real worry. Last time he was only in there for what was probably an hour or so and he lost everything related to his Hero life. Wouldn't going back make him lose those again? He can't risk that again. He feels Scar hand twitch in his wing, tightening around a few feathers before letting go.

“It's… finicky. Even though the Void might not be frozen, the portal will be. So because you are going from one frozen place into the Void, it's possible it won't even recognize that you're there.” Keralis explains and damn it! How do they have an answer for everything that he's worried about!

“I don't…” Grian goes to object completely but, but can't really find it in himself to. Clearly he's the only person who can do this and who is he to tell them no when it could be their big break? He can suck it up. He has gone through worse… probably. 

“Of course we could think of something else, but I think that this might be our best and quickest bet on finding that antidote soon.” Xisuma finishes and Grian says nothing. He doesn't want to do this, like, at all. But he will, so he wont object. He can feel Scar scratching at his wing a little more firmly, and maybe if he concentrates he could feel a slight tremor in the way he moves. “It's imperative that we do this soon as well, I’m not sure how long Cub can hold off the media.” 

“Is that what Cub has been doing then?” Scar latches onto the conversation topic quickly, both out of wanting to be done talking about that plan, and also wanting to know more about Cub. 

“Yes, that was what I was going to let all of you know. Cub has been staying inside the Hero tower to directly let me know what is going on within the walls. He has also been tasked with making sure the media has no clue what's going on with the missing Heroes.” Xisuma explains. 

“So, he's like a spy? Working for the Council only to keep himself covered?” Scar asks, a certain tension leaving his body. 

“Exactly like that, yes.”

“How did he explain top ranked Heroes not patrolling anymore?” Iskall asks. 

“I read something about how they are trying out a new ‘heard not seen’ tactic or something.” Etho explains lazily, Xisuma nodding along. 

“He told the public that all the Heroes are still there and patrolling, but focusing on not being seen by the public. Framed it as an experiment on whether our metrics go up when we aren't interrupted by criminals seeing us first and then taking off. He's making sure that the Council thinks that he is working for them, trying to keep the public in order while they figure out what to do. Cub even paid off a few news sites to cover the story widely. It should buy us some time, but not a lot.” 

“Then we better get working on it.” Doc rumbled. “I think we should split up to make the most of it. Bdubs, Grian and Scar should go switch powers and practice using it then me, Xisuma, Stress and Iskall will go and set up a space for this. If everything works out we can probably get try this later tonight. What do you say, meet back here in a few hours say, 10pm?” He stood from his chair, pushing it in as he finished speaking. 

Tonight? They were just going to go with the first plan without even thinking about it? Everyone else nodded and started to stand as well, Grian felt a bit numb in place. He turned his head slowly to look at Scar, who had apparently already been looking at him. Scar had a saddened look in his orange eyes, yet said nothing. 

“Is this okay?” He asked quietly, so quiet only Grian could hear him. 

No, it wasn't. He didn't want to go back into the Void. He didn't want to try and take on a new power again. And he didn't want to be the one to find out whether his family was still alive.  

But… who else? Nobody has a power like him (even if he doesn't know how to really use it), nobody knows Boatem like he does (excluding Scar, even if there was certainly some secrets that were never shared with him), and he's already been to the Void before and made it out (even if by accident.)

If not him…then who else? He certainly doesn't want Scar or Xisuma to try, nor would he want Keralis to (he doesn't need to add to that to his guilt.) He looks around the room and sees that the Stress, Iskall and Doc have already started talking lowly about where they should do this. Xisuma and Keralis were talking with Etho, but it was too quiet for him to hear what about. Bdubs was standing behind his chair messing with some of the foliage around the table. 

They all seemed fine. Nobody seemed overly nervous like he felt. Doc and Iskall seemed almost excited about everything going on. Grian couldn't take that away… Maybe Xisuma was also excited to possibly hear from Boatem again. That's not even accounting for every other Hero in this building right now that doesn't know about this plan. 

Doing this could both relieve some of them of the unknown of what happened to Boatem. Surely many of them were part of the search effort. Not only that but… if he is able to actually talk with Mumbo, they could be able to topple over the Council. There's much more to gain here than to lose… 

He looks back up to Scar, the man looking like he was holding something back. Lips downturned into a soft frown with pinched eyebrows. Grian can see every memory where Scar had this look on his face, and never once was it for Grian. There were moments during patrols and missions against villains that went a bit sideways, there were times where some team members of Boatem got a bit hurt, hell even time's Scar looked like this because of something Grian had said to him. 

But this? This was Scar looking at Grian telling him without words that he would stand up for him. That if Grian didn't want to do this, then he would do everything to find a different way. Even if that means not finding Boatem, or delaying how long the Council runs the city, Scar would do it.

And that's not fair to Impulse, Mumbo or his sister Pearl. At the end of the day, Grian was the one to start all of this and he was the one to corral Boatem into rebellion. He remembers having meetings with the Council and how kind, yet cordial they used to be. And then suddenly when they wanted to have meetings alone with Watcher, he doesn't know if anyone knows about that…

He can’t not do this. It wouldn't be fair. He has been the one person to make everyone else's life hell, so he might as well endure this to try and fix it. And of course, he wants to see them again too.

He took a stealing breath, holding it in for a moment before releasing it in a long sigh. 

“It's okay.” He said, trying his best to give Scar a convincing smile. “I want to try and see them again.”

Scars lips moved into a thin line, eyes wandering his face looking for any trace of a lie. But Grian gives him a kind smile and wide eyes. He even goes as far as to throw a little chirp in there to completely smooth over Scars features, a small smile finally overcoming his face. He pulls his hand out of his wings but instead of putting it in his lap or standing up, he reaches over and holds Grians cheek. 

It surprises a chirp out of him, his cheeks definitely going a bit pink as he stares at Scar. Neither of them say anything, Grian doesn't know what either of them have to say. Scar just runs his thumb under his eye, which calms him, soothing the wrinkles on his forehead. 

He lifted a hand to cover Scars, a trill sounding from his throat. 

Someone clears their throat from behind Grians chair, both Scar and him taking their hands away quickly. Grian is sure that his cheeks inflame even more red as he turns around seeing the sight of Xisuma standing with his hand behind his back. Maybe, just maybe, him and Scar forgot they were not alone for a moment.  

“Grian, can we talk for a moment?” He voices, gracefully ignoring whatever he had just witnessed. For a moment Grian is a little sheepish about what Xisuma just walked up on, but it's soon covered by a feeling of anxiety and concern at why Xisuma came to speak with them.

He nodded slightly, not trusting his voice at the moment to not betray his emotions. He pulls his wings in close as he pushes his chair back before standing. Scar moves to do the same, but as he goes to follow, Xisuma stops him. 

“Just… me and Grian? It won't be long.” And now Grian is starting to feel a little more nervous. Scar just nodded his head silently, turning to lean against the wall closest to the door. It makes Grian smile and look down at his shoes, knowing that even though Scar respects Xisuma enough to leave them alone to talk, he still is not willing to go very far in case Grian needs him. He probably notices how nervous Grian is, or maybe he is nervous himself, either way Grian appreciates it. 

Xisuma leads them through the door, Grian catching Scars eye as they walk past. They don't go too far out the door, just a few paces down the hall before Xisuma stops. They face each other, Xisuma taking a deep breath in before speaking. 

“You don't have to do this. I know we kind of just assumed you'd be on board, but you and I understand the danger in this far more than the others. Say the word, and we shut it down.” He states plainly, sounding genuine. Grian can’t help but to be taken aback a little. 

It's true that Grian is scared and worried, and that he really doesn't want to do this. But out of everyone in that room, it's the two of them that have to be there. Grian has to. He doesn't really feel he has a choice after everything he’s put them all through. But Xisuma? He has truly faced nothing but pain and trauma from this. Surely he should be the one to shut this down.

“What about you?” Grian dodges the question. 

“I want to help in any way I can. I’ve talked with Keralis, and we think that I could get some closure here. My power was used against me to do something bad, maybe this time I can do something good. I’m–” He hesitates. “I’m scared, and everything is moving fast. But I can't be scared of my powers forever and we are both missing loved ones. I’m willing to move forward with this, but only if you are as well.”

What a unique position they are in. While Keralis and Scar know the story (and in Keralis’ case he has literally been there through memories) Grian and Xisuma are the only two people that were there. They have a shared position here that nobody else can claim to have. Yet somehow still Grian feels so incredibly isolated. 

He's proud of Xisuma. Nothing that had happened was ever his fault and he was never meant to be in the crossfire, and he's glad that he's aware of that. But he's surprised that he hasn't figured out that it's actually Grians fault. 

His whole brother was ripped from him in front of his eyes, yet he's still willing to help Grian. So much trauma was inflicted on him for merely being alive and in the Hero Tower, and it's all Grian. He can't help but admire Xisuma's resolve too. He had gotten his memories back what, two days ago? And he is already facing his fears and willing to work through them. Grian wonders how long it is going to take him to feel that way.

“I want to help too. I’d do anything to see them again.” And that's not a lie, but is definitely a cover for how scared he feels. Maybe if he just keeps thinking about who it's for, then it will make him feel better.

It's for his sister. For Pearl, who he pulled out of an orphanage when they told him that he was getting kicked out. His sister who he protected until she decided to become a vigilante with him. His little sister, whose wings are so little, that at night he would wrap his own around both of them to make sure they didn't sleep cold. 

It's for Impulse. The older brother he never had. The man who would protect them in the streets when he saw two younger vigilanties just trying to make ends meet. His friend who would bend the light unto them to keep them warm in the winter, but annoy them for fun in the morning. 

It's for Mumbo. His best friend and partner in crime. The man that he laughed so hard with when he didn't even know that was possible. His best friend where they could sit in a room silently, and it still somehow was intimate. 

It’s for Xisuma's brother. A man that he had never really met, but somehow got dragged into this against his will, leaving a grieving brother behind in its wake. No matter if he was a villain, nobody deserves to go through what he did, for something that he had no hand in.

Of course he's also doing it for Scar. The man who has become his best friend and partner (in more ways than just Hero/sidekick at this point.) The Hero who has had his whole life ripped up because of Grians poor decision making. 

He has to do this for every Hero that isn't corrupt yet. For every Hero that still believes in the city and believes in protection. 

He has to.

“I’m okay. We can do this. Together.” He tries to give the man a crooked smile. He can do it, and if anything goes wrong then they will deal with that then.

“Okay… Okay.” He nods slowly, sighing. His shoulders drop a little as he takes a step closer to Grian. He hesitates for only a moment before he leans closer and wraps his arms around Grian pulling him closer. Grian returns the hug almost instantly. He may not have had many interactions with Xisuma, old or new, but he knows this man is like a father to Scar. And somehow, even with the armor, it's one of the best hugs he's ever had. 

“You can back out at any time but… Thank you for trying.” He breathes, giving one last squeeze before pulling back. Grian can feel his eyes have gone a bit glassy, emotion almost overwhelming him for a moment. 

“No, thank you. It's not easy for either of us. I have to fix this. All I need to do now is find a way to take Bdubs power.” Grian changes the topic quickly, turning around to go to walk back into the room (and if he discreetly tries to wipe his eyes, hopefully nobody was the wiser.)

“Well, consider yourself Lucky, because I am the best teacher!” Bdubs shouted, almost running into Grian as he marched out the door he was just about to walk through. 

“You don't even know how my power works?” Grian huffed, taking a step back to avoid getting run over. Scar stepped out the doorway as well, making space for Xisuma to slip through (though, Grian didn't miss how Xisuma paused, laying a hand on Scars should gently as he walked past.)

“I know enough! Plus, Keralis had a dream about it last night. So I think I know a few things.” He smiled widely, but I did nothing to help the pit in his stomach. Dream or nightmare?

“How… convenient for us.” Grian forced out, turning away from them both to start walking towards the training room. 

“Hey!” Bdubs shouted, picking up speed to catch up. Grian also heard Scar take a few quick steps to fall in line beside him. Bdubs started talking but Grian didn't listen. Who knew one man could talk more than Keralis? 

He shook his head of the thought, not wanting to have the man on his mind. At some point he knows he will have to apologize to him, not only for the night before but also for dragging him into this mess he started… It's clear it is probably taking a toll on the man. 

He's worried that taking Keralis’ power hurt him like it hurt Grian himself. Is that what's going to happen to Bdubs? That didn't really happen to Scar, or at least he doesn't think so… 

Maybe he really can't take more than one power and that's why it hurts so much. He knows he has to try again, to focus on the feeling of searching for room. It certainly felt like maybe he could fit another in, if he tried hard enough. Well…he has to find room. Or else none of this will work and it will be all his fault times two.

He suddenly feels someone grab his hand, gently entangling their fingers together. Coming back out of his thoughts, he looks up to see Scar look at him with concerned eyes. Oh, his breathing had picked up a little bit.  

He looked away, guilty for a different reason now. Squeezing Scars hand, he took a long deep breath trying to calm his racing heart. He can do this. He just has to calm down and breathe. They can't know how scared he is. 

With carefully measured breaths he looks back up at Scar. His face was still pinched in worry, almost more so than before. But Grian gave him a kind smile, hoping it didn't look as fixed as it felt. Luckily, Scar seemed to buy it enough to smooth over his face, a soft smile returning. He squeezed his hand again, before looking back forwards. 

“Ah-ha! And here we are!” Bdubs recounted, throwing the doors open and letting them through first, dropping into a low dramatic bow. As they passed him Grian dropped their hands, Scar giggling, giving Bdubs a small bow back. Grian walks away from them both as they laugh at each other's antics, and he goes into the center of the matted room. He looks over at the contained room that he was just in the day before, but decides against it. 

“I don't think there should be any backlash. Every time I've taken a power it has just been internally a problem, not external.” Grian said over his shoulder, trying to come off more secure than he is. 

“Alright, so out here should be just fine! Since you already have Scars power, he can watch and make sure nothing goes wrong.” He nodded to himself, walking over and stopping in front of Grian. He had shed his thick mossy coat, looking up at Grian with big dark eyes. 

Over his shoulder he sees Scar. The Hero has his glasses in his hairline, watching over the two. His eyes are so bright, like he's once again trying to use his Luck to influence how this will all go. It makes Grian genuinely smile. What a bleeding heart.

Grian realizes that it's not actually a bad idea. Maybe he should try and use his Luck to try and make this go smoother as well… He's had very little practice with this, but it'll be that way when he gets Bdubs’ as well. 

“Well! What are waiting for!” And not for the first time Grian realizes that Bdubs doesn't know what he's gotten himself into. Grian doesn't go to tell him either as the Glare hybrid sticks his hand out for Grian to take. “I saw from Keralis that your power works through touch, and that it's very untrained. You'll have to focus real hard to get to where we want to!” 

He looks down at the offered hand, doubt slamming into him hard. What if it's impossible? What if his Mimicry is a one and done kind of deal? 

“What if I can't take another?” He asks, not really expecting an answer.

“Then we try something else! But every power has the ability to become stronger. We are just kinda… quickening the process!” He says with a toothy smile. 

It's weird to see this guy be somewhat knowledgeable while also being such a goof. Though he supposes it's much like how he assumed Keralis was when he first met him. He should really stop making assumptions on people when they first meet… Grian shakes his head at the thought again, there he goes again thinking about Keralis…

“This could hurt you…” He voices another concern. 

“Then we move on! I'm ready for it!” He sounds way too happy about that to be honest. 

“What if–” 

“We could do this all day, Grian. The only way to really know, is to do. All powers are trial and error. You think Hotty over here figured out Luck the first try? Or I knew I was Dreamwalking and not just dreamin’?” Grian doesn't tell him that Scar did pretty much figure it out the first time, or at least it didn't take him long. He can recognize a shut down when he sees it…

It doesn't calm his nerves anymore though. It doesn't change that he doesn't want to do this… it feels almost unfair. Bdubs says everyone gets to figure out powers within time, but he has to expedite the process…

He takes a deep breath looking straight over Bdubs shoulder at Scar, just to see the look on the Hero's face. He's pleasantly surprised when he sees the Hero giving him a thumbs up and a smile. It has its intended effect Scar probably had in mind: making Grian huff a laugh. Slowly he slides his eyes back to the offered hand. 

He can do this. What's one more power? It'll be fine. 

He thinks of how he did this last time. It was certainly not on purpose but he does remember bits and pieces of how Keralis was trying to get him to take Scars power. Something about having to want it first. He has to want Bdubs power to make this work. 

He raises his hand while searching for all the Luck he can muster as well. This has to work. He's the only one who can do this and they have to get Pearl, Impulse and Mumbo back (and Ex, he realizes. For Xisuma.) They have to. They will. It feels almost like a flame coming to life inside him. He doesn't know if it's hope, or something else.

Just as Grians hand lands in Bdubs’, he thinks he hears a gasp, but it's over taken by the grunt both Grian and Bdubs give off. 

It feels like all the other times, or at least the ones he remembers. He tries to stay calm, the memories of the night before still a little too fresh. It's wild to think about how he just found out he had a real power and now he's purposefully trying to use it. How quickly things turn around here…

The warmth travels from his and Bdubs' connected hands. He takes a steading breath, making sure to just focus on the feeling and try to not freak out. It's not until the warmth gets to his chest that everything tilts to the left. 

Bdubs lets his hand go as Grian stumbles back a bit. There's a feeling trying to make space where there is none, he remembers this. Gods it hurts as he feels the warmth move around as if searching for space. It moves everything from his claws to the tips of his wings but he now knows that space is taken up by Luck. There is already a power there, and this new one is trying to force its way in.

“You have to make room, G.” He hears Bdubs say, subdued. “All powers can be exercised and made stronger. Focus.”

And isn't that what he's doing! At some point he had closed his eyes, arms coming around his stomach as he leaned over against the pain. There was blood rushing in his ears, making the sound around the room dull. There just isn't room! A chirp leaves his throat, one of pain and upset as his legs finally give out. His knees hit the ground with a thud and he's sure he hears Scar curse. 

He can’t give up yet though! If he keeps it circling around his being long enough, maybe it will just stay! It has to! 

He feels hands on his shoulders pushing him back, before laying his head on their shoulder. It's Scar, it has to be. His hands come away from his stomach to grab at Scars clothes, pulling himself closer. 

There has to be a way for this to work, a shaky breath leaves his lips. Bdubs said that all powers can get stronger and while he didn't know he had this, he still has it, possibly since birth. That's a long time to have a power, and possibly be using it without meaning to. There has to be room!

Another chirp flies from his throat as it pushes again, trying to force out Scars power and replace it with itself. It feels wrong, like that Luck should always be there and anything taking its place would be like fitting a square where a circle goes. 

“Grian if you can’t, don't hurt yourself.” Scar murmurs into his ear, close enough to be heard.

No. He will try until he can’t anymore. He feels Scar pull him closer and he thinks that maybe he said that outloud. 

Maybe there's something else he can do. He is clearly using his Mimic power, maybe he needs to try and use more Luck. He feels the burning start a little in his chest, making that power known. Now everything is so warm, between the Luck and Mimic, and he can feel himself growing tired on top of it all.

There has to be room somewhere, and if there is not then he will make room damn it! He lets the feeling of Luck bleed, just a little, the rush of longing replacing it almost instantly, yet so did the new. Letting go of the Luck felt like dropping a sack of stones, something being poured away. Before he can even process where it went, something foreign replaced it.

Warmth then replaces the pain, seeping into the new place somewhere within his soul. Only for a moment did he not feel whole, something clicking into place and the pain switching off as if it was never there.

He almost went to push back, the sudden feeling jarring compared to the battle it felt like before. But… this is what they wanted. It feels wrong, but it should get better…

He could breathe, a sudden deep breath feeling almost forced but very needed. Something felt different. Something about the world felt new and the sense of longing was quickly fading into feeling slightly tilted. 

He fisted Scars shirt just to feel the fabric, his eyes still closed but still moving behind his eyelids. It's over, the warmth receding into the room temperature that he was at before. Surprisingly, that wasn't nearly as bad as when he had accidentally taken Keralis’, there had to be a reason but he isn't really in the mind of thinking about it. 

He did it. He did it! He had gotten two powers to stick!

Slowly he pulled back from Scar, opening his eyes and blinking in the bright lights. Finally he catches Scars eye, the man burning such a pretty orange with concern swirling around. Well that just won't do.

“I– I think I did it…” He spoke quietly, voice still a bit shaky. Scars face transformed in seconds, a shocked yet bright smile taking over his features. 

“You did?” He laughs, excited on behalf of Grian. It must be infectious, because Grian soon finds himself laughing as well. 

“It certainly feels like it!” He cheeps, it turns into a shout as Scar lifts them both off the ground, holding him under his arms as he spins them around on the mat. “Scar!”

“You did it!” He laughs, Grian feels his wings spread out on instinct to keep them balanced. The joy on Scar's face was indescribable, and Grian can't even fathom why Scar was so happy for him. “I’m so proud of you!”

He was proud. The warmth started again but for a completely separate reason. He tweeted out a high pitched sound, happy and twittering with his laugh. 

He did it! Probably! Oh this moment made it worth it! He figured out this power all on his own. It makes a lot of sense now that he's thinking about it. There's only so much room in his soul or being, so he has to let a little bit of each power go to gain another. 

Scar lets him down onto his feet after one more twirl, both falling into each other with ruddy cheeks. 

“I had to let some go, and let another power fill the space!” He smiles up at him. Scar returned it in kind, but shook with a silent laugh.

“I'm not even going to pretend I know what you mean!” 

Grian laughs back, suddenly feeling energized. It's like his bones feel tired but his soul feels wired. A buzzing somewhere he can't place yet he just knows is everywhere. This is great! And also terrifying!

“Well, lovebirds!” Bdubs shouts, not unkind. “Feeling a little left out here!” 

Grian jumps, forgetting that Bdubs is in the room with them and that he had a major part of this working. He turns around, smile still on his face, and looks at the shorter man. He has his fists on his hips, tapping his shoe on the ground like some cartoon. Upon seeing the smile on Grians face, he can't help but drop the act and smile as well. 

“How’s the power feel?” He asks, and Grian thinks it's meant to be rhetorical. But he actually does feel his power, and it feels lighter than Luck, soft around the edges. 

“It feels floaty, and light.” He nods, moving to touch his chest. Bdubs seemed at a loss for words (possibly for the first time in his life.)

“Wait,” Scar starts, pulling attention back to him. “Doesn’t Bdubs have two powers? How do you know you got the right one?” And the room is silent for a second, Grian most of all. He blinks, looking back to Bdubs, who looks just as slightly concerned. Then, he shrugs his shoulders with a hum.

“Did you want to take the Dreamwalking power when you activated your power?” He asks, trying to sound nonchalant. While the answer was yes, Grian feels like he should still be a little more concerned over whether this actually went the way it was supposed to. 

“I did…”

“Then, according to Keralis’ dream, that should be all you need! Now we just need to make sure you know how to use it!” He seemed way too confident in this, but maybe that was just how Bdubs always was… 

“How does your power work?” Scar asks, stepping to stand side to side with Grian.

“I’m glad you asked! I’m just the most perfect Dreamwalker, I assure you!” He bolstered, Grian and Scar turning their heads to just blink at each other.  “Firstly, I do my nightly routine that's perfectly timed with the moon. Then, as I cuddle up in my cozy bed, I think of dreams and fantasy. And as I float off into dreamland, I feel a little coolness in my chest, and I know it worked! I’ll open my eyes as if I’m awake, but I’m in someone's dream. I’m still working on being able to get into someone's specific dream.” 

Once again, Grian and Scar are silent at the short not-a-Hero said. 

“So,” Grian started.

“You have to be asleep for this to work?” Scar finished. 

“Well of course! What part of Dreamwalking don't you get?” Bdubs sasses back, as if that didn't just throw a wrench in their plans. Clearly Scar was thinking what Grain was.

“How am I supposed to fall asleep while tied to a rope dangling in the Void?” Grian deadpans, wing twitching at his side at the ridiculousness of the notion. 

“Dreamwalkers tend to be able to fall asleep anywhere, so I assume you would too…” Bdubs stops his foot back. “So much doubt! I can feel it fallin’ off ya! If you’d just trust me, you’d know that I’ve thought this whole thing through!” 

“Alright, alright!” Scar huffs a laugh at his antics. To be honest it is pretty funny, it's like a puppy throwing a fit. “But, clearly there's no way to test this power then. If we have to meet them back in a few minutes then Grian shouldn't fall asleep now. Plus, I’m not sure anyone in the area will be asleep for him to try on.”

Grian doesn't like the sound of that… The earlier excitement was starting to wear off back into anxiety. It's starting to feel much more real what they are going to attempt to do. 

He's going to talk to Mumbo. Mumbo Jumbo. His best friend and old partner who has been missing for three years and he hasn't stopped searching since. 

Or maybe… or maybe he won't find him at all. He doesn't really think he's ready to accept that answer. He doesn't think he will ever stop until they are found and alive and in his nest. They will be with him, and he will be searching at Scars side for the rest of time if he has to. 

But this is the first step. 

“I think we should get back to the others.” He says decisively. Scar seemed a little shocked at his resolve, Bdubs looked excited. Scar reaches up and places a hand on his shoulder, squeezing gently in comfort. But Grian didn't need it, he wanted to get this done. He’s overcome one roadblock, how hard can the others be? He decides to just pretend his anxiety is excitement in seeing his family again. 

He turned in Scar grip, his arm falling back to his side, but not for long. Replicating what Scar did in the hallway, Grian slipped his hand into Scar, lacing their fingers and holding gently. 

“Well, what are we waiting for?” He smiled, seeing a dim orange blaze. “Let's go get them back.”

Chapter Text

The room that they walked into was a bit small compared to what Grian was thinking they would need. It was decorated in the typical Stress way that everything else was, hanging flowers and all. The ceiling was quite tall though, and the walls here were a deeper green, soothing and easy on the eyes. 

Against the wall opposite of the door they had just walked in through was a comfy looking couch, a soft rug underneath. There looked to have been a coffee table there at one point, but now it's been pulled back and resting against the wall to be out of the way. There's a few more chairs around and a small twin sized bed along the furthest wall. 

So they were definitely in some sort of small guest room or something of the sort. Between the couch and bed there was an empty space of hard wood floor, a rug rolled up and put away. 

When Grian, Scar and Bdubs walked into the room Doc and Stress looked up from their conversion they were having. They were seated on the couch, Bdubs not wasting a moment before joining them and getting comfortable. Grian couldn't help but roll his eyes with a small smile. Bdubs is rapidly worming his way into his heart, which surprises him as he wasn't too pleased about everything that happened in the meeting just earlier in the day. It seems the mossy guy just had that effect…

Looking past them Grian saw Xisuma and Keralis having a quiet discussion against the wall. Keralis had the former corralled, doing most of the talking in a way Grian knew was probably a pep talk. Nowhere in sight was Iskall though. 

“How’d it go?” Stress asked, sounding genuinely interested. The rest of the room seems to quiet down at the question, all interested in the answer.

“I hope well, or else this would all be for nothing…” Doc spoke gruffly, crossing his arms as Stress elbowed him in the arm. 

“Don't be rude!” She hissed. Grian wouldn't lie and say it wasn't a little nerve racking to hear him say that, but he knew that he had happy news. 

“Well…I have two powers now so…”

“Sweetface!” He heard Keralis shout. “Congratulations!” The tired looking man bounded over and pulled Grian into a hug. He couldn't help but return it, glad that Keralis wasn't actively pushing him away. 

“Thanks… It hurt a bit but I can feel it, which I think is correct.” So much of this is just hoping that it's correct. If he knew that this power was present when he was younger, he would've had classes in school or even just an interest in looking into powers that required focus to turn on. Since he just had the invincible wings, it wasn't really required. 

“Let me see,” Keralis pulls back, looking directly into Grians eyes. It only takes a second for Keralis’ face to break out into a wide smile. “It's there!” Grian just laughed, shaking his head while looking down at his feet. He will never understand Keralis’ power. 

“I think we should get started before I chicken out…” Scar said, putting his hand on Grians shoulder. 

“You?” Bdubs asked incredulously, and Grian shared the sentiment. He threw his head back with a chirpy laugh, leaning back until his head was on Scars shoulder and he was looking up at his chin. He wings drooped lower, allowing space for his head to fall back, feeling the feathers slide against the fabric of Scar shirt.  Scar looked a bit shocked at the proximity, but just moved his hands to Grians sides. “You’ve got the easy part!” Bdubs finished as Grian laughed at Scar. 

“Hey! My health is on the line! I could have a heart attack right now, but I’m not, but I could!"

“As if it was a choice?” Stress asks, joining in on the joke. 

“Yes! I get to sit here and watch at the risk of my poor heart!” Grian continued to giggle, the others joining in as Scar puts on a faux pout. They continue for a few moments, Grian feeling lighter now. 

It's amazing how far the people in the room had come. Grian knew Doc for a long time, but only from his second vigilante years. God forbid he had villain friends when he was Watcher… He's glad that the man trusted him enough to help them out as far as he has. Not only that, but trusting him enough to be okay with Scar, the number one Hero, coming to his base. 

Then there's the whole growth with Scar himself, where he is now accepting help from villains. Him and the other Heroes like Xisuma (he's pretty sure Keralis would make friends with anyone though.) At the end of the day it comes back around to Grian and the trust the rest of them were putting in him. 

He looks around the room at the smiling faces of Heroes and villains alike and thinks that maybe this is all okay. From the moment he walked into the room he felt the anxiety, a heavy pit had grown in his chest. But he's trying his best to ignore it and continue on forward. This feels good and it's everything he's terrified of losing, but there's everything he could be gaining as well. 

He can almost hear the things Pearl would say right now if she was here with them, little jabs at his fear disguised as making fun of him but meaning to make him laugh. Impulse calmly talking through the plan and soothing any anxieties he might have. Mumbo bumbling around making sure everything would go right while helping Grian stay sane (Xisuma's brother, probably trying to calm Xisuma. Or trying to help him with his own power.) 

He can hear Doc joking around with Bdubs, Stress laughing in the background, and he realizes that he has those moments here now. It will never be the same as what they had with Boatem, that much is obvious but… time really does keep going. He lost them all and gained something different. They need them back, him and Scar, or else nothing will ever feel like enough, he knows that. But maybe he can let himself feel comfortable here, just for a moment before whatever happens, happens.

He took a deep breath to calm himself further, his giggling coming to an end as he leaned further into Scar. The Hero takes it in stride, pulling him closer with his arms around his stomach. Grian brings his own hands up to cover his and he really tries to not think of this as a weird goodbye. He can feel his back against Scars front, Scars face over his shoulder between his wings, cheek on his head. 

They sway slightly, pretending that the room isn't clearly trying to avoid looking at him and Scar. He can see the looks in their eyes though, they aren't being very inconspicuous with what they were probably thinking of him and Scar. They're just close friends, okay?

“Alright, I guess we should probably git on wif it then…” Stress signs, standing from the couch with an almost forced smile. Keralis moves to go back to Xisuma's side, leaning on him as well (Grians mind supplies that they have no right to look at them weird, when they are just as weird about each other.) “We moved the rug, thinkin’ the portal bein’ on the hardwood would work betta!” 

“Probably smart.” Grian nods, having no idea if that was actually true. 

“Where's Iskall?” Scars asks, squeezing Grian around the middle just cause he could. 

“We decided to have them step out so if something goes wrong, I can text them and they can get help quickly.” She says with a shrug and Grian doesn't know if that makes sense or not. Not that it really matters, if Iskall didn't want to be here, Grian understands. 

“So, here's the plan one more time,” She continues, flipping her hair over her shoulder as she leans her hip against the arm of the couch. “First, Xisuma will open a portal and Bdubs will freeze time right when it's large enough for Grian to go through. Then, Bdubs will help Grian tie a rope around his waist. After Grian goes in, he will have to try and fall asleep with his power activated to try and Dreamwalk into Mumbos mind.” She finishes as if it's just that easy. 

“Okay, first question.” Scar starts, and Grian feels grateful that at least he's asking questions, because he is just ready to go in and wing it. “How will Grian not be frozen with Bdubs freezes all of time?” Solid question that Grian should've asked. 

“As long as I’m touching him when I use my power, it won't affect him! Hopefully!” Bdubs answers, finally also standing from the couch. Slowly they all start to crowd around the circular empty space in the hardwood floor. Grian still stays leaning on Scar though. 

“You don’t know?” Doc questions, almost incredulous. 

“Well, it’s worked at least once so it should work again.” And he gives a wide, toothy and honestly a bit scary looking smile. Everyone just slowly nods and moves on from that.

“Okay,” Scar continues, holding out the last vowel. “Second question: is a rope going to be good enough?” Another good question that Grian probably should've thought about. 

“That's… more of a formality. We are mostly hoping that he will be able to walk out like last time.” Xisuma says the first things he said since they walked into the room. “Bdubs is on a time limit with his power, he can only hold the time for at most an hour,” Bdubs acts like he's about to object, but decides against it. “He will pull you out, if possible, when we get close to an hour. I think it would be Lucky if it worked, don’t you think?” Grian feels the burning in his chest rear up a bit, and he assumes Scars does as well. 

“Last question, how do we know that Mumbo is asleep? Or how is Grian supposed to fall asleep in the literal Void?” 

“I wouldn't worry about the last one,” Grian speaks up, looking up at Scar. “I’m close to dead on my feet after taking Bdubs power. I don't think I will have much of an issue with that.” Scar clicks his tongue, squinting his eyes down at Grian as if skeptical of what he just said. 

To be fair, Grian does think that maybe he's being a bit more lackadaisical about this than he should be. But at this point, it's a bit of a numb feeling. He has to do this, so he will, end of story. But it is a turn of character from before, till now. From being worried and scared against the whole idea, to now where he's ready to just jump in and hope. It's probably not healthy, but it’s working so he’s just going to pretend that it’s all okay. 

“As for the first part,” Xisuma cuts in, he sounds a bit skeptical himself but still moves on. “Everyone who stays in the Void for too long will end up in a sleep-like state. There is so much nothing there, it's the best state to be in.” Grian tries not to think about what Xisuma told him about how the Void will take things from them. It took his memory after an hour or so in the Void… Gods know what it might've taken from them. 

He doesn't want to think about it. 

“Okay,” Scar nods, holding Grian even tighter, almost too tight. “Okay…”

The room is doused in silence, like nobody wanted to be the one to start this. If this goes wrong, the person who started it would hold the misplaced guilt. That, and of course there's a possibility that this whole thing is for naught. There's no way to know if this is a good idea, or if it will actually work, until they just do it. 

They just have to jump into it, pun vaguely intended. 

Grian decided to be the one to start it. It was immensely hard to pull himself away from Scar, his back immediately feeling cold. The space between his wings missing the heat from the Hero. But he knew that he would be back, he had to come back because he remembers the Void being cold. He has to come back for Scar to warm him up again. 

“Let's get this started then…” He stretches his arms above his head, trying his best to keep his heart an even beat. If he doesnt think about it too much, surely he won’t start freaking out now. 

“Let’s… Good luck Grian, Xisuma…” Stress says, taking a step back. Doc nods to them both as well, a grim look on his face. It doesn't bode well, but Doc never looks particularly up lifting so he’ll choose to ignore that. 

“I’ll see when you get back, Vogel. I’ll make sure you come back in one piece.” He jokes, a small smile twitching on his face. Grian isn't ashamed to admit it does make him feel a little better having the villain at least try and give him a smile. 

Xisuma and Keralis walk up to them a bit closer, Xisuma looking nervous with his fists clenching and unclenching by his sides. He watches as Keralis takes one of his hands, stopping the movement. 

“You’ll do great Sweetface, I have no doubt! But make it snappy, I want Shashwams cushy shower back.” He finishes with a wide smile, no hint of doubt or sadness on his face. Leave it up to Keralis to have the least grim outlook of them all. 

Xisuma was quiet, seemingly having something to say but not knowing how to say it. It wasn't until Keralis gave him a little push on his elbow before he finally started speaking. 

“This will go great, with everyone here helping I have no doubt. After you talk with Mumbo and get out, we will work on the antidote to finish this. I… I don't know what you'll see down there,” He started speaking quietly, surely only Grian, Keralis, and Scar could hear the words he was speaking. “If you see Ex–” He sounds like he might've choked, clearing his throat before contouring. “If you see him,  tell him he's a derp and I miss him so much.”

And with that, he pulls Keralis away back to stand on the other side of the empty space. Grian can't help but feel a pit open in his stomach. He didn't really think of the possibility that he would see anyone but Mumbo… He's filled with both dread and some twisted form of excitement. It's a possibility that he could see all of them…

He turns to face Scar, looking up and realizing that he's the last to say something. If Scar says something now, surely he will explode with emotion and possibly back out, so he just shakes his head before he even tries. Scar huffs, clicking his jaw shut from whatever he wanted to say. He pulls him into a soft hug, leaning close to his ear to whisper. 

“Even if it doesn't help,” Scar starts, ruining Grians plan of him not talking. “I’m sending all my Luck your way. Please come back quick, I don’t think I could handle you forgetting me again.” And with that he lets Grian go, walking over to stand next to Doc and Stress. 

He blinks, heart in his throat. He can't think about it. He can't because if he does he will freak out.

He turns around, his back now facing the trio that are now wholly uninvolved, and looks at Xisuma and Keralis. Arguably, Keralis didn't need to be with them here either, but Grian doesn't think that Xisuma would be able to do this without the extra support. Grian almost wants to have Scar stand next to him too, but knows that after time is frozen, it wouldn't help much. 

Bdubs sides up next to him, reaching up and placing a hand on his shoulder. It was grounding, it wasn't meant to be but it was. The shorter man nodded to Xisuma, letting the man know that it was okay to start. 

“Okay, remember, I am not very good at this so it might take a moment…” Xisuma sounds hushed as he speaks, almost embarrassed sounding. Nobody replies, Keralis just stands a bit closer and whispers something that Grian doesn't hear. But he watches as Xisuma nods, then chest expands with a deep breath. He thinks that his eyes must be centered on Grian. 

Then, the man puts his hands out and faces his palms to the ground. Upon exhaling, the air turns static. The smell of ozone permeates through the room tickling Grians nose. He notices the silhouette of the Hero stars to glow a faint purple, a small sound coming from behind the mask and the glowing becomes even more pronounced. His eyes fall to the center of the hardwood food, a small black dot found slowly expanding. Grian feels his heart finally pick up more speed; this is really happening now. 

It looked like someone had photoshopped the floor away in the real world. The darkness expanded and expanded and it was completely silent as it did. Grian didn't even realize when it stopped, but once it did he felt Bdubs hand fall from his shoulder. 

It makes him look up, ready to check on Xisuma thinking something might have gone wrong, only to find everyone completely still. There was no movement in the different kind of silence. There was nothing to hear because there was nothing moving to cause it. Though, he thinks if he listens just enough, there's a faint ticking sound coming from somewhere. 

He snapped to look over at Bdubs, the man also looking around with wide eyes as well. His eyes are glowing green, almost exactly like Scars except instead of just the pupils, his whole eyes. 

“Yeah it’s always weird to do this. I’ll never get used to the quiet…” He says and it's somber. Not an emotion Grian is used to hearing from the mossy man. 

There has to be more there; how did Bdubs find out about this power? Grian watches as he grimaces at the air, as if the silence is actually getting to him. But Bdubs moves on from it quickly enough, Grian doesn't even try to ask about it.

Besides, they have other fish to fry as Bdubs produces a thick rope from one of the pockets from his cloak. He hands the end to Grian, and together they tie it around Grians waist tight enough for him to feel it. It certainly wasn't coming off without some help at least so there's no way that he would get lost. Well… there's no really telling what the Void could do but, hopefully it will be fine. 

Once they were done, Grian looked back up to the frozen people in the room. It was just so unnerving to see them all just looking at him and Bdubs, but not blinking. Stress and Doc had pretty straight faces, looking on with vague concern and hope. 

Scar made Grian breath catch. His eyes were so incredibly bright, his glowing eyes staring forward with pinched eyebrows. He was filled with so much false hope that maybe, just maybe, hopefully, his Luck would help someone other than himself. He just never gives up hope that one day it’ll work. One day his Luck will be helpful for someone that he deems worth it. 

Grian feels himself get just a little choked up, the danger in this coming back to the forefront of his mind. But he can't let his resolve crack, he's so close to seeing Mumbo again and he has to get them all back. He lets the burning in his chest flare, wanting the match the feeling that Scar must've felt (distantly he recognizes how much better he's getting at using the power on purpose, but he can celebrate that later.)

“Well,” Bdubs starts, getting Grian to look over at him only for the man to jump about a foot in the air with a shout. “Your eyes! Since when–” He yells, hands on his hips as if upset at Grian for scaring him. 

It confuses Grian for a moment, why his eyes were glowing enough to scare the man. Then, he remembers how excited Scar was when his eyes glowed even just a little bit. He can feel the burning in his chest and puts two and two together. 

“Oh, I’m using more Luck…” He says, feeling a little self conscious now of his eyes. Does Scar feel that way? 

“Oh! I wonder if you’ll glow green like me when you use my power! Or maybe something different since Scar is orange and you're red. Maybe you'll be blue then because the colors would be close but not quite when you use them together in the Void!” He smiles, rambling. He goes to look down at the Void and his smile slowly drops before looking back at Grian. His heart drops just a little more. “I guess this is it then… I’ll set a timer for an hour before I pull you out alright?” He grabs at the clock around his neck and Grian realizes that that's where the ticking had come from. He nods, taking a small step closer to the hole.

Slowly, he takes another. And then another until he was staring straight down into inky nothingness that he hasn't seen in three years. It's as terrifying as it was last time; he never thought that he would be back here. But at least now, this time they have a plan and people helping him. This time, he didn't keep it to himself. He reached out and has gotten help. He can't help but look back up at Xisuma, standing silently on the other side of the Void. His chest burns brighter. 

He turns around to look at Bdubs, the last person he could possibly ever see. The man gives him a bright, comforting smile. He feels like this is the moment before the end, or maybe the beginning. He should probably say something…

“If I don't make it–”

“Don't say that!” Bdubs sounds offended, but Grian continues on with a small smile. 

“If I don't come back, can you tell Scar something?” 

“You can tell ‘im yourself!” He huffs, crossing his arms. He still nods though, showing that while he doesn't want to believe it, there is a possibility that maybe he won’t come back… 

“Tell him that I’m actually proud of him, and I always have been.” It sounds too real. Like his actual last words and he doesn't like it, but he knows it's important. 

“He won’t want to hear that from me, but sure.” He sighs, blase, but with a pinched face. “Would it be rude to say good Luck?” Bdubs jokes, and Grian huffs a laugh back. 

“I don't think so, because it is good.” And with that, he takes a single step backwards while pulling his wings in close. 

And then, there is truly nothing. 

The feeling of panic comes just as quick as there being nothing. His memories were fuzzy of this time, and honestly now he knows why. With nothing to distract there's only himself and what he feels. It's so much. 

He's having trouble breathing and he forgets whether or not it's Void related, making him panic even more. Gasping, hands come up to grip at his hair feeling the wetness of his tears fall on his arm. Without his permission his wings come around and cover him completely, again like his memory. This is what his own brain was trying to forget, and now he's here back again, reliving it.

His head hurts when he hears himself cheep, it sounds to incredibly loud in his hears. His aural feathers come around to try and dampen the sound. He needs to breathe, needs to stop wasting time, but he can’t . He's scared and he suddenly realizes that he can't do this. 

He's not a Hero anymore and he wasn't a very good vigilante. He's never been good at saving anyone yet they sent him here to do just that. He's now feeling the weight of everything come crashing down when there is nothing to distract him from the fact. 

He's not who he used to be, and he's never felt farther from that man than now. When did he become such a coward? He can’t do this. 

His head hurts, he can't breathe and he knows that he's trembling though there's nobody else around to see. And now it's possible that he's never going to see anybody ever again. Gods he's just so tired. 

“Hey…” Grian lets out a shaking sob, hands over his eyes furiously trying to stop his crying. He needs to get his shit together!

“Hey.” He swears he feels something touch his wings softly, but he knows, know s that there is nothing out here. Nothing. And it makes his breath hitch even more; a reminder of how small and alone he is. His wings ruffle trying to get rid of the feeling but it doesn't go away.

“Watcher, right? Hey.” What is that? He can’t breathe. 

“You need to calm down, okay? You'll accomplish nothing this way." The voice says a little gruff and mean, Grian agrees though. But he still can't muster the ability to breathe as another sob racks through his body.

Suddenly the air shifts ever so slightly, almost imperceptible but in the dense Void of nothing, even the smallest change feels massive. The air feels easier to breathe and enter his lungs. He chokes on it immediately, coughing through tears. 

“Calm down, take a deep breath slowly. It's okay…” He's not sure what or who he's hearing but he feels like he will lose nothing if he follows it, nothing left to lose. So he tries. Opens his mouth and tries to take a deep breath in but instead just cakes on another sob. “That's okay, try again.” They soundly sound nicer and more patient, a juxtaposition to how they were before. Still, he finds that he wants to follow what they say.

So he does, it goes a lot like the first time, but the voice urges him to try again. It takes a while, but Grian can't really tell. Finally when he's able to take a whole deep breath, he pulls his hands down to his chest. His wings still encase him, feathers a bit hard to see in the dim lighting of the Void. 

“Yeah this place kinda sucks.” The voice says, and Grian thinks they sound like Xisuma, but a bit deeper and maybe more gruff. He almost wants to freak out again, but can’t find it in himself to. The burning in his chest is still alight, along with something else that feels new. 

“Who are you?” He whispers, worried that speaking too loud will hurt again. It doesn't, somehow. It sounded better to his ears than last time. 

“Well, come out of those wings and maybe we can talk.” Grian doesn't understand why the random voice in his head would want him to face the discomfort of the Void again. Especially considering that he just got out of a panic attack.