Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

How did he even get here? Laying in a bed with your enemy, ice pack on your lip and a bandage on your arm. How the hell do you explain this to anyone? Let’s try it anyway…maybe it’ll make sense if it’s in words.
He woke up to pounding on his door and yelling outside. He immediately thought to Faye and burst outside. Outside the cave opening, Krit sat with a letter in their claws with his name plastered on the front in shitty cursive. “Theo! Orion said he wanted to give this to you? He didn’t seem to wanna sliver it himself so I’m here to do it!” Krit stated with their usual optimism. “Oh. O-ok? Can I have it?” He asks the crab, extending his hand. Krit nods and hands the letter off before waving goodbye and swimming off. “Why couldn’t he deliver the letter himself? Did he forget where I live already? Damn.” Theo said, opening up the letter.
Theo, we need to talk. Meet me at these coordinates. -136, 56, 455. Come alone. -Orion Why would he need to be alone? With Orion of all people. He messages Nel and Micah the coordinates as a precaution and set off. After a few hours, he arrived at the spot and waited. Orion arrived eventually and they met together, walking along the sand together. “Why’d you need me alone, Orion?” Theo fired away immediately. “We need to talk. You need to control your fucking anger, Theo.” Orion answered, stopping. “Me?! I need to control MY anger? Have you forgotten the pain you’ve cause me? The reason I get so angry is because of the shit you’ve said and done. It’s never been my anger, Orion.” Theo turns to him, arguing back. “Then what is it? Hm? Why are you so damn angry angry at every little thing? Why do you feel the need to yell at everyone and everything that comes your way, Theo?” Orion asked, furrowing his eyebrows. “You’re telling me to tell you why I’m angry? Why would I? I don’t owe you that answer. I don’t owe you shit.” Theo said, pushing him farther away. “Theo, you and I both know that you can’t keep pushing your problems away everytime.” Orion whispered. “Yes I can. If I push them far enough away, they can’t hurt or bother me. It buys me at least some time to figure out a solution or way out of it. …Good night Orion.” Theo whispered before diving back into the ocean, headed to the way home. “Theo get your ass back here.” Orion said diving in after him, following behind.

Chapter Text

"Theo get your ass back here."

Theo swam and swam for miles, only resting to eat. He could hear Orion following behind him so he sped up to try and escape him. "Come to these coordinates. Orion's tailing me. -108, 15, 443. Hurry. Bring weapons maybe." He texted to Micah and Nel before moving to a cave to hide. He watched Orion swim by as he breathed a sigh of relief and swam out. "Gotcha." He heard before being grabbed from behind before he could turn to look at who said it. His attacker crossed his forearms against his back securing them there with a tough seaweed rope. "LET ME GO! RIGHT NOW!" He shouted, thrashing against his attacker. He felt himself be dragged backwards by his forearms. He was tossed into the cave and as he got his barrings, he heard the entrance be blocked off. No no no please. Not again. Please no no no. He couldn't get his thoughts to stop spinning, it was dizzying. "Theo. Cool it. I'm not gonna hurt you ok? I just want answers. I'll untie you if you promise not to attack me." The voice said swimming over. Theo looked up to a familiar orcas face, disappointingly. "Orion, I'm not spilling anything. Over my dead fucking body." Theo admitted to the orca. "Why not? We grew up together. Shouldn't I get answers as to why you're such an asshole all the time?" Orion said smirking. "No. You don't get that luxury. Not after all the things you've said." Theo retorted back glaring at Orion. "You're a difficult person Theo." Orion commented, cutting off the seaweed. "I know. I'm suppo-" Theo said hearing a cracking noise. CRASH. "Orion, back up." A familiar lionfish would say. Orion turns around seeing a trident to his neck. He tosses his hands up in defeat as Nel makes their way to Theo, checking for injuries. "Mind telling me what the hell is happening?" Micah asked, finally lowering the trident. Orion sighed, "I wanted answers from Theo but he's being fucking difficult and won't tell me." "I don't have to tell you anything and everything mister orca." Theo retorted back. "Both of you. Stop it. Theo, why don't you wanna tell him what's wrong?" Nel said turning their attention to the Shark. "...He doesn't need every fucking DETAIL of my life." Theo said huffing. Nel sighs and begins applying ointment to his rope burn. "Can we be left alone? I wanna talk to Orion a bit more." Micah asks of the two others. They both nod and as Theo passes Orion, he glares into the other mer's soul. //in the cave\\ The loudest silence can be heard echoing through the cave. As the two mers sat parallel to each other, watching the sand settle around them. "Orion I can't keep doing this. Every. Single. Day." Micah states rubbing his forehead. "What? I want answers as to why he's a prick all the time. He needs to learn to open up to people. Especially those who have been there since he was a pup." Orion retorted back, letting his tail lay in the sand off to the side of him. "No, you need to learn to not fucking instigate him at every chance you get. Maybe he won't open up to you or anyone because of the way you instigate and act towards him. Listen. You can't force someone to love you right? That'd be wrong. So why is it different when getting him to talk to you?" Micah asks. "Because I don't love him. Hate his guts. I just like seeing him angry like a toddler. It's fucking hilarious." Orion states, a smile creeping up on his face. "You need to learn and understand that he's not going to open up and tell you what you wanna know if you keep making him angry. You're going to get a trident through your neck and I will not be cleaning that up." Micah states finally meeting Orion's eyes. "...Fine." Orion states before leaving the cave. Micah sighs and follows him out.

Chapter Text

Micah sighs and follows him out.

Nel held Theo's hands as they gathered outside the cave. "What happened this time Theo?" Nel added, stopping in a kelp forest. "He sigh he asked me to meet up and then cornered me into answering the same question. He's done this for months." Theo says looking at his wrist which were red and slightly bruised from the tight kelp rope. "Why does he want answer? He shouldn't ask multiple times and should be an adult and take no as an answer! He's not 5! Why can't he accept that you don't need to answer him." Nel says doctoring Theo's wrists with bandages and ointment. "You ok Theo?" Micah asked as he swam over, watching Orion swim away glaring into Theo's skull. He glared right back before turning his attention back to Theo, checking for extra injuries. "Yeah. Yeah I should be ok. Just some rope burn and a bit of bruising." Theo said rubbing the bandages around his wrist.

//back at home\\

The sound of the door bursting open rang through the bubble."THEOOOOOOOO" Faye yelled as she walked in. "I'm here. I'm here. What's up sis?" Theo said coming into view. "Nel was acting weird today a- what happened to your wrists?" Faye asked, stopping her ramble and swimming to his side. "I'm ok..just got,uh, a bit roughed up by Orion. Nothing too bad though just some bruising and rope burn." He said reassuring Faye's mind. "Again? Why does he keep pressuring you to answer him?" Faye asks, trying not to be upset at the orca. "He'll learn eventually…I hope. Nel and Micah helped me at least get him off my tail for now. No clue what Micah said but I know Orion hated it whatever it was. " Theo said giving a slight giggle to himself. "Yeah! Nel he was bein strange today. He was being really protective and stuff. Not that I hate it but, just weird. I can't tell if he's just being protective or weird like always." Faye said swimming to put things in their chests. "He's always been strange Faye. Nothing's different now." Theo said giggling to himself. He couldn't believe that after everything, Faye never looked at his injuries as a really big part of him. Sure, she'd acknowledge them but she never made them a big deal. That's what he loved about her. He couldn't get the days events out of his mind. Why would Orion just come at him out of nowhere. He'd never done anything to him, to his recall. These questions going through his mind at an unrelenting pace. He couldn't do this right now. His sister needed him right now and he's over here thinking about his own problems. He can worry about that later.

Chapter Text

He can worry about that later.

Faye leads him towards this bubble with….books? "Faye, what is this exactly?" Theo asks, running his hand along the glass edges. "A present. It was gonna be for Nel but, I don't really like him at this moment." Faye said, opening the door. "Oh? Why's that Faye??" Theo asks, following her in. "He pissed me off. He asked me out at the wrong time and it just icked me. Not exactly hating him but, he could've asked at not that time." Faye said, sitting on the swing in the middle. "Oh damn. When did he ask?" Theo said, sitting on the swing beside her. "Few days ago but still a fresh wound y'know?"  Faye said, reaching for a book. "Did you tell them this?" Theo asked, reaching for a book with a golden spine. "Yeah. I think he got that message…punched him square in the ear." Faye said flipping to a page. "Well damn- is he ok?-" Theo asks shocked that Faye would punch anyone, especially Nel. "Yeah. Minimal blood and a bit of bruising according to Micah at least." Faye said, swimming to a wall of books. "That's my sister…I taught you well Faye." Theo said giggling towards himself as he opened the book.  How to properly throw a punch 101 Why in Krit's name did his sister have that? Yknow what not gonna ask. She deserves to know how to fight a bitch He continued reading for what felt like eons. He never knew how much he loved to read! Guess he's never got the chance to really read back in the kingdom. "Theo! Look at this book! It glows!" Faye said swimming to show him the book. "Hm? It glows? Why does it glow?" Theo said, taking the book. "Glow squid ink! I used it in the spine and coloured it to make it stand out!" Faye said as she pointed out all the little details of the spine. How it glowed and shined different gradients in different directions. It was beautiful…the cover read, "A Tail of Lovers Long Forgotten." As Theo ran his hand along the pages, he flipped to one in particular and started reading. He couldn't believe what he saw before him. The one he loved, standing before him, holding another man's hand. No. He must be seeing wrong.  His lover left this world years ago. But his face...the eyes..the laugh...everything about the man before him was exactly the same. The one who held his hand left and picked up a call. He went over and introduced himself. Theo closed the book, putting it back on the shelf in its rightful spot. "You like that one Theo? I found it and decided to y'know, repurpose it! Never read it but it looks cool!" Faye said as she reorganised the books around the place. Huh...a dumped book. Interesting.

Chapter Text

Huh…a dumped book. Interesting.

As he left the bubble to head to land, waving bye to Faye, he finally took in the way that the water hit his fins as he swam towards the inn. He needed to talk to Elodie and Void about making some food for a trip he'd been planning for a while. Needed to see if it was possible to make that much food.

"Ah, Theo! Pleasure to see you here! What can I do for you? More puffer chips for Faye? Some salmon crisps for yourself?" Void asked as she turned to face the Shark. "U-uh no. No, not today. Just need to make a request and see if it's possible? If not, that's ok. I can probably make it myself." Theo said as he sat at one of the barstools. "Sure! What's your request?" Void asked, turning off the stove and setting a pot on a separate stove top. "I need food. A lot of it. I'm going on a trip by myself and I don't know for how long. If that's not too much?" Theo said, looking at the kitchen's setup. "Well, you'll need 3 meals plus snacks. I'll see what I can do for you ok? I'll maybe have to get Elodie and it may take a little bit. May I ask why the sudden trip?" Void asked as she opened a book with meal plans and set it and a pencil in front of Theo. He tensed up at the question and answered, "I uh, just need a vacation. Yeah, that's all." Void saw right through him and he knew it by the way she looked at him. "It's Orion isn't it? He's giving you trouble again?" She asks, watching him check off different meals and their quantities. "...Yeah it is. He's been up my ass sayin I 'owe him answers' because he's 'been with me since childhood'. So has Nel, they don't ask about my personal life so much. They don't pry into things that aren't theirs. So why does he?" Theo said, handing the book back and opening his bag to get payment out. "He's an instigator. He's gonna pry and pry till you break and tell him." Void said, taking the book and writing down the meals. He finished up there and headed home, making sure to leave Void and Elodie some extra payment. When he got home Faye had left a note saying she was with Moki and would be back soon. At least he's got some peace for now. He can't seem to clear his head so he explores, steering clear of Jormun's territory. He didn't have the energy for that today. He swam for a bit and the sun started to set so he made his way back home. He decided to hop onto a small strip of land to get his surroundings. He looked around for any kind of landmark and was rudely interrupted by the sound of splashing and weight on top of him before he had time to react. "WHAT THE HELL?!" He shouted at the attacker.

"Cool it your highness~ it's just me." A familiar orca voice said. "ORION GET THE FUCK OFF OF ME! RIGHT NOW!" Theo yelled as he thrashed in the others arms. "Now, who said I was Orion? You're close though." The voice asked. Theo stopped struggling against him. There was no use. "There ya go Thalia. Now, I'm going to let go and you're going to not run ok? Good." Marius said as he got off of Theo. Theo could hear his heart in his ears. He panicked and texted Micah and Nel his coordinates. "Now, I just need to talk ok? Want a few words and information. All of which you're going to give me. Understood?" Marius said, opening a notepad. After a few minutes of avoiding the info Marius wanted, Theo finally had hope. He heard splashing and three figures emerged holding tridents to Marius' neck. "Well now…who're these guys eh? Well my nephew I know. The other 2 I don't. Tell me nephew, why are you against your dear uncle Marius hm?" He asked, turning to face the orca. "Because I'm not a kid anymore. You don't scare me. And I'm not letting you harm him any longer." Orion said, pointing the trident against his jugular. "But I thought you wanted this information? What's changed dear nephew?" Marius asked, looking Orion in the eyes. Orion lowered his trident slightly. "I don't need the information from you. I need the information from the source you egotistical fuck." Orion said glaring right back at Marius. Marius only nods as he reluctantly dives back into the ocean and swims away. Nel rushes over to Theo with supplies in hand. Theo backs away as Orion approaches and he doesn't press further. He backs away from the situation as Nel wraps his back and ribs up and Micah keeps watch for anyone else. Once it's cleared, Theo is guided back home and told to rest. The next morning Faye is laying at his side, seemingly protecting him from the world. That's all he needed at that moment. His sister. 

Chapter Text

That's all he needed in that moment. His sister.

Where is he..? How'd he get here..? Faye. Where's Faye..? Please. Faye. Please.

"Theo? Theo you there?" A voice asked as he looked around at his surroundings. "Mmmm." He responded looking towards the source. "Hey there Theo! You ok?" Nel said getting eye level with the Shark. He could only grumble and further crumble into the corner. "Hey hey! Theo, Faye is ok. She went to get some supplies for you and Orion went back home. I'm here to watch you because Faye didn't want you to be alone!" Nel said as he sat down in the sand. He laid against a rock and tried to fall back asleep. Everytime he closed his eyes he heard his voice repeating "Thalia Sealan" over and over till it was all that occupied his thoughts. I'll never be him..I'll never be seen as Theo. Always Thalia Sealan. Always a princess, never a prince.

I can't hear my thoughts. I can't think. Faye. Faye please. Please.

"I've got you." Faye said, holding onto Theo's hand. Faye! He wrapped her body into a hug holding his sister close. "He's gone. He won't come back ever again, Theo." Faye said, rubbing the small of Theo's back. "Nel. If you could." Faye said motioning towards the door. Nel nodded and left, making sure to gently shut the door behind him so as to not frighten Theo. "I'm here Theo. I've got you. I've got you, brother." Faye said, holding Theo's head in her hands. Brother..I'm her brother. Not her sister. "We heard what he said. You. Are not. Her. You are my brother. You are Theo Sealan and you're a brother, a friend and a son. Nothing of the past can hurt you now Theo." Faye said, releasing the hug and holding Theo's hand. "Mmm mhmm. 'M your brother..Theo." Theo said, finally looking Faye in the eyes. "Mhmmm you're my brother!" Faye said, sitting beside her brother.

Some time later

Sun rays fell through the roof of the Coral caves. It was surely a sight..one he missed seeing. "Why'd you bring me here Micah? Something special?" He says as Micah leads him through Coral structure after Coral structure. "Wanna show ya something! Found it with krit a while ago and thought you could get some use outta it!" Micah said, leading Theo to a kelp infested ship. "The hell? Micah, what is this exactly?" He asks letting go of Micah's hand. "I promise. It's more than meets the eye! Cmon!" Micah says swimming into the ship. Theo has a few weapons on his person just in case of emergency. He follows a bit behind Micah as he swims into the ship. "Down here!" Micah says, calling out from below. Theo follows Micah's lead and it leads to a lush cave. "A hangout spot! I've been wanting to get Void and maybe Elodie to help with maybe a bit of a base plan for this place! Cool eh?" Micah said, sitting down on a piece of moss. You've been here before, siren~ Don't choke~

His breathing picked up and he felt like no matter how much breath he sucked in, his lungs wouldn't fill. He felt his legs fall underneath his own weight as his head felt airy and vision blurred. "THEO?! THEO HEY HEY BREATHE! BREATHE THEO!" Micah said, rushing to the sharks' side. Now now~ What did I just say hm? Don't. Choke. Siren~

"Theo. You with me bud? You there?" Micah asks, trying to calm him down. "Can't." Theo says, trying to curl up into a ball. "Can't what bud? Can't speak? Can't breathe?" Micah asks, checking Theo's pulse. Keep your composure. You're supposed to be strong for Faye. What are you doing! Breaking down. Get up. GET THE FUCK UP THALIA!

"Faye's on her way Theo. I'll stay right here ok? I'll be right here bud." Micah says as he moves the Shark closer to him.

Minutes turn into what feels like days

"Theo! Thank kelp you're okay..right?" Faye asks, rushing to collect her big brother. "His breathing has slowed any lower than about 130-150 for the past 25 minutes. He's unresponsive and I don't know what happened." Micah said, handing Theo off to Faye. "May we have a bit alone? Please Micah?" Faye asks, holding her brothers hand. Micah nods and leaves to back home.

"Theo? Hey hey I'm here. I'm here brother..I'm here. I've got ya brother." Faye said, holding Theo's head to her chest, softly stroking his hair. Theo finally looks up at Faye and starts to almost breakdown. "Heard him again..he-he was saying things a-and hic hic hic hic he said I wasn't being tough for breaking down an-!" Theo gets cut off by his sister kissing his temple. "You are still Theo Sealan. You are still my brother and you are still tough for crying. No matter what, you're tough to me Theo." Faye said, wrapping her tail around Theo's. After a few hours, they left for home. When they got there, the mailbox was halfway closed. "Were you expecting something?" Faye asked, looking to Theo. Theo shakes his head and cautiously swims over. When he opens it, he's met with a letter and a box. The letter is wrapped in kelp and the box says "Open me after the letter". Theo takes both out of the mailbox, closing it back and heading inside. He sits in the book bubble and opens the letter.

Dear Theo, I'm sorry I took you there today. I didn't know it would end like that and I wanna apologize. I wish you only the best and I want you to know that. You and Faye mean a lot to me and so many others. Hope you can forgive me, Micah

"Micah sent it." Theo said, looking to Faye. Curiosity filled both of their eyes as they opened the box. Inside was a bag of what looked to be jerky chips and some little crystal sculptures. "Awww this ones an orca! And a torso? And ooo a mushroom! So many shapes Theo!" Faye said, picking the contents up. All this for me? "Heh. This ones a sword!" Theo said, picking the sword shaped agate up. It glimmered in the light through the ceiling like nothing he'd ever seen. He smiled picking the others up and looking through them. After the events of today, he needed that happiness in a box.

Chapter Text

After the events of today, he needed that happiness in a box.

Once everything is done and sorted, Faye invited Nel, Krit and Void along to try and brighten Theo's day a bit. "I brought punch! Its just sprite, pineapple juice and lime sherbert!" Void said carrying 2 gallon jugs of punch. Void set the jugs down before taking a seat on one of the pillows. A bit of time passes before a knock is heard. "Knock knock!! I have brought a bracelet for Theo!" A familiar crabs voice can be heard through the door. "Come on in Krit!" Faye said before returning to talk to Void. Krit walked in with the bracelet carefully held in between their pincers. "Theo! Hi theo!" Krit said, handing him the bracelet. "Heh, hi Krit. Thank you." Theo said putting the bracelet on and leading krit to the main area with Void and Faye. Knock knock

"Come in!" Faye said swimming to greet the person. In walked Nel with a basket in hand. Following close behind was a familiar face. "Orion? What're you doing here?" Faye asked as Nel went and set the basket on the table and joined the others. "I wanted to apologize to Theo. He didn't deserve that. Every single thing that bastard said was unfuckingcalled for." Orion said, pushing past Faye to find Theo. "Orion! Slow the fuck down!" Faye said, grabbing Orion by the ear fin. "Ow ow ow- ok ok- fine. What? Why can't I go see him?" Orion said, stopping and looking at Faye. "He's still nonverbal and I don't think that seeing your face would help…too much of Marius." Faye said letting go of the orcas here. "...You think I'm like him? A danger? A monster? Is that what you see me as Faye?" Orion said, looking down at the Shark. "No! Good hell no! If you were anything like him, I'd punch ya in the gut! It's just your coloration is. You're nothing like him and if you were, you wouldn't be standing here in this moment. Trust me. You wouldn't have lasted to see this day, Orion. In time, he'll trust you again. But right now, please Orion..? From a distance please? At least until he's ready again?" Faye asks, looking to the orca with sympathy. "Of course. Please keep him safe, Faye. He deserves only the best. One day I hope he can trust me. I'll head home." Orion said, walking out the door. Faye was walking away as there was more knocking. "Good kelp! I only invited a few people." Faye said going to answer the door. "Faye! Is Theo here? I wanna apologize!" Orion said, looking into the cave. "Orion? I just saw you leave..? I told you to watch from a distance!" Faye said, swimming out with the orca, closing the door. "I-I've been trying to find Theo all day! Nel told me what happened and I rushed over to try and cheer him up!" Orion said, trying to peek inside. "Ok what the hell. You just came over! I saw you!" Faye said, looking to Orion in confusion. "That wasn't me, Faye! I've been out working on the village all day when Nel told me what happened! I came over to make sure he was ok!" Orion said, looking back in confusion. Something's wrong…

"I- ok I have no fuckin clue what's happening but I-I guess I can tell you what I told other..you?" Faye said, sitting against a rock. "Uh, yeah yeah! Yeah..please?" Orion said, sitting across from Faye. Faye repeated what she said making sure to look at the details of this Orion in comparison to the other "Orion". "I can prove that I've been on land all day! You can ask Void!" Orion said, looking inside to see the familiar purple fins. "Stay here. A-Actually, come inside. I'm not letting you get napped or something." Faye said, opening the door. Orion walked in after Faye and looked at Void.

"Void cmere please" Faye messaged on the comms. Void swam over to Orion and asked, "Is something wrong?" Orion and Faye looked at each other before nodding to Void. After the explanation Faye asked, "Was he with you all day Void?" Void nodded and looked in horror to something beyond Orion's shoulder. "Don't look at it. Void focus on me. Only me ok?" Faye said, moving to Void's line of sight. Void looked to Faye's eyes with terror. "Focus on my eyes ok?" Faye said, leading Void to the main room. Once down there, Krit asked what took her so long. "Orion is here…and Orion..is here." Faye said, looking to the group in fear. I beg your pardon..?

Chapter Text

Hiya! I know yall were expecting a new chapter but I'm a bit worn out so, yes there will be a new chapter just not as of right now! I said this also in a friend that cant be trusted but, more people appear to read that first-. Also, please keep in mind that I'm human- I can't mass produce content every single day- I'm a human behind the screen, have human emotions and a life outside of online- please respect when I say that I'm not writing and don't rush or force me to write. That just makes me not wanna write more- I know people love the stories but please remember that I have a life as well as school and myself to take care of before writing these stories. New chapter should be out today or tomorrow! See yall then<3 love ya mosslings/p

Chapter Text

I beg your pardon..?

"Go over that one more time..?" Krit asked, lookin at Faye in confusion. "There's 2 Orion's. One is real and one isn't. The door remains locked till further notice. No one goes out, no one comes in. For now," Faye said, turning to Orion. "you are on a heavy watch, understand Mr. Orion?" Faye said, glaring into the mers soul. "I-I can prove I'm the real one!" The orca said sitting on a lower ledge. "Prove it then." Faye said, pulling out a trident, gripping it against her side. "Theo, we grew up together! You and Faye are still polar opposites! As kids, we used to run around the courtyards in the kingdom while meetings were happening. My uncle took over and so, he had to watch over me. When I left, I set out to find you both again. Every voice I heard, I hoped was yours. Everyday a bit of that hope left me. After so long, I heard Faye's voice. I found you both again but..neither of you remembered me it seemed. Theo nearly speared my head clean off my shoulders seeing me again. I realized how much damage my uncle caused the both of you. A-and void! Your sons name is Azrael. Made from white sand, gold and another thing that isn't coming to mind at the moment. You run an inn and offer safety to those who need it most." Orion said, catching his breath before continuing. "Krit, you like shiny things and are learning about this world and what it can do just like the rest of us. You keep your friends safe to the best of your ability. Something is affecting things around you. Your bed, your blocks and other things. You got Theo to open up to people and make friends." Orion said, looking to the crustacean. "...What about just me..Orion?" Theo asked, dagger drawn at the ready. "You're protective of your sister. Very protective of your sister. You stop at nothing to keep her safe. You used to flick me with water to get me to shut up! That or sand..or whatever you had lying around..!" Orion said, looking in panic towards the dagger tightly gripped by the Shark. "..It's true. I did." Theo said, putting the dagger back into its holster. "So then, who is outside our fucking house..?" Faye asked, pure horror on her face. The whole group stayed out of eye and ear shot of whatever the creative at the door pretending to be Orion was.

"You all ok? Krit stopped answering and I know they were with yall- Everything alright over there?" A comm message from Micah. What am I even supposed to say..? 'Yes we're fine. Maybe their comm died!' And lie? Or 'No, someone is pretending to be Orion and we can't leave.' Tell the truth and risk Micah getting hurt or lie and him be left in the dark and us get hurt…?

"Yeah! Yeah we're ok! Think their comm died or something..- They're safe with us! I'll get them to charge it!" Faye said, sending the message and looking to Krit. They were talking to someone. Traitor..

No. Krit isn't a traitor. I don't think they even know what that means. "Krit, who ya texting?" Faye asked, swimming over and sitting beside them. "Nel! He asked where I was!" Krit said, looking to Faye. "Don't tell him we're in danger. They'll get hurt or worse and I don't think I can handle that..please?" Faye asked, putting her hand on Krit's shoulder. "I didn't! Just told them I was with yall!" Krit said, sending the message. Nel can't get hurt, not now.

"Let me in, Faye~ it's just me!~ Orion!! Cmon old pal. Open the door, let's catch up! Like old times!" Not-Orion said, tapping on the glass. "Don't respond. No matter what. Do. Not. Respond. We don't know how this thing works. If we respond it could do so many things. Mind control us, attack us. We don't know how it works, so don't talk to or look at it." Theo said, keeping his trident steady against his side. After hours of waiting and waiting, watching the sun turn to the dark of night illuminated only by the speckles of stars, they peeked outside and saw no one. With weapons drawn, everyone went home. Except for Krit. "Krit. Since your house is out in the open, you'll stay here with us until further notice. Ok?" Theo said, leading the crab to a bedroom. Krit nodded and got nestled into bed for the night. "G'night Theo! G'night Faye! Sleep well!!" Krit said as the two of them walked back to the main room. "So, who the hell was that..?" Theo asked, looking to his sister, hoping for an answer. "Theo..I'll be honest, I have no fucking clue. Because if Orion was sitting in front of us and Orion was also outside, one of them is lying and I have an idea of which one. The one outside. Its eyes were the wrong shade of red. That and, it was missing Orion's scars across his chest. I have no clue who it is but all I know is we can't let anyone near them." Faye said, looking back to Theo. Time to put your guard up again..we were getting so close..so fucking close..

Chapter Text

Time to put your guard up again..we were getting so close..so fucking close..

"Just a little further!" Micah said, leading Theo to yet another place. "Yknow last time you took me somewhere, I had a panic attack.." Theo said, following behind. "Yeah yeah I know. Hence why I asked Faye to join. Just in case." Micah said,  stopping in a clearing in the coral. "What is this place Micah?" Theo asked as Faye caught up to the both of them. "A home away from home. I don't like the water too much, so I made an above ground home underwater!" Micah said, leading Theo inside a tunnel. "This doesn't look very abo- holy shit." Theo said, gazing at the house of quartz and chisled bone. It was a quaint little cottage type house with a hidden staircase going to the surface. "It's not real big but, home!" Micah said, showing him and Faye around. Hours ticked by like seconds and suddenly it was pitch black outside the hidden sunroof. "Take care ok you two? Theo, get some rest and Faye, keep Nel out of the library." Micah said, giggling to himself as the the two sharks swam away smiling. Theo stopped to check his pockets and told Faye to just head home, he'd be there soon. "Your highness! A moment?" A voice called out to his side. Theo froze as a hand met his shoulder and a figure came into view. "Marius. What did we say about staying the fuck away from here. Exactly, we said to stay the fuck away. So why are you here?" Theo said, jolting his shoulder away from the orcas grip. "Just want to…talk with you, dear princess. Nothing more." Marius said, swimming to sit on a sturdy piece of coral. Every part of him wanted to run, swim, be anywhere but here. Marius sensed this and reassured he had no weapons or ill intent. "Please, I just wish to discuss Orion." Marius said, pulling out a lined notebook. Theo sat across from the orca, hands firmly against his side as Marius talked about what Orion had said to him. "I don't understand why he feels that he has the right to talk to me like that. I practically raised him! I shaped him into who he is!" Marius said, throwing his hands up in exasperation. "Maybe because of who you were talking to, Marius. He doesn't want to be a stuck up brat with a never ending ego. He doesn't want to be you. He will never EVER want to be you, Marius." Theo said, getting off of the coral and turning to leave. "He doesn't care! He's never cared about anyone or anything! Why would he start now!?" Marius said, following the Shark, pinning him to the side of a coral plant with a dagger. "Maybe because he's finally learning to fucking care. Maybe because he wants to be his own person. Maybe because he actually wants to live life and enjoy it, Marius. Now if you'll excuse me, I'm leaving." Theo said, struggling to get free from the hold of the dagger. Finally getting free, he swerved away as he swam through the coral forest. "Get back here! Just because you think you know him, you don't! You never will, Thalia!" Marius shouted, chasing behind Theo at a quickening pace. Theo ducked into a rotting shipwreck out of sight of the orca.

-56, 18, -12 help..
On my way.

He felt every sense in his body go into overdrive. His heart pounding in his ears, water swaying with his tail movements, iron flooding his nose as he looked to his shoulder. A cut…

Soon enough he heard a familiar voice calling his name. "Theo? Theo!!" Faye called his name. He poked his head out of the rotting wood, catching his sisters attention. "Let's get you home yeah? Orion said he wanted to uh, talk." Faye said, taking her brothers hand and swimming towards home.

Upon arriving, sure enough, a familiar orca wait by the door. "Faye! Hi Theo..look can we talk?" Orion asked as Faye nodded off and went inside. Theo nods as Orion takes his hand, leading him to a small cave entrance. "I promise it's not whoever the hell was impersonating me. I can prove it!" Orion said, sitting on a smoothed rock. "Prove it." Theo said, hesitant to sit anywhere near him. "You have a constellation on your back. It's Canis Major. It's not the literal constellation but it's freckles that almost connect to look like it." Orion said, looking to Theo with crimson eyes and a worried expression on his face. "Orion..what do you want? Came to taunt me? Belittle me like when we were kids? You never want to talk unless you get information out of me." Theo said, backing up ever so slightly. "Don't leave just yet..prince. I want to make you not angry at me. If that's ok..?" Orion asked, honesty in his voice. Sigh

"What do you have in mind?" Theo asked, now curious what the orca had planned. Orion walked towards the other side of the cave, opened a chest and walked back to Theo. "Let me dance with you. We never got to at your coronation so I figured, why not make it up?" Orion said, smirking at the shark. "I- You're so fucking stupid. You know that?" Theo said, walking towards the open chest and seeing a garment bag with his name embroidered on the front. "It's the same one from the castle. I fixed it to be the right name." Orion said, watching the other pull the bag out and open it. A crystal teal suit corset that laced in the back, matching pants, both with a gold sand stripe running down the side and a white undershirt. The collar of the suit jacket had a gold shark fin pin on either side, connected by a chain. "Really Orion?" Theo asked, turning toward the now chuckling orca. "Well go on, handsome. Change." Orion said mining out a part of the wall to change. "I-I'm sorry wha-" Theo said, face heating up from the sudden compliment. Theo slipped off his tool sling, setting it to the side before changing into the outfit provided. "Orion? Can you uh, can you help me?" Theo said, walking to the hold Orion made. "Hm? What's wrong?" Orion said, peeking his head out of the hole. Theo motioned to his back where he couldn't quite thread the string through. Orion chuckled and walked out, shirt haphazardly buttoned up exposing parts of his chest. Theos face only flushed more as he caught himself glancing before looking forward. "Turn around for me?" Orion asked, finishing tying off the corset. Theo turned to have his face towards Orion. "Yknow if you wanted to look, you can ask. You know that right?" Orion teased, watching Theo's face flash a bright red. "I'm messin with you Theo." Orion said, buttoning his own shirt up and putting on his corset. A dark gray and black corset with white ribbing and dark green ribbon laced up into a neat bow. "I-I'm sorry I don't look the best." Theo said, looking down at his chest. "Why?" Orion asked, looking at Theo before lifting Theo's face to look at him. Theo squirmed in his hand, nervous about how Orion thought of him. 

Chapter Text

Theo squirmed in his hand, nervous about how Orion thought of him.

"We don't have to do this Theo. Promise. We can sit uptop in the rain if you'd like?" Orion asked, letting the others face go. The more he thought about it, thought about giving this up and curling away again, he thought about the simple times back with Faye and Nel. How Nel never cracked under Faye's constant pestering and poking him. How Faye talked his ear fin off for hours at a time. Times when Mom and Dad were alive..

"Theo? You there bud?" Orion asked, snapping his fingers in front of the shark. "Mm? Ye-Yeah I'm-I'm sorry Orion. Just too deep in my thoughts..we can continue." Theo said, looking the orca in the eyes. Orion took his hand and led him out of the cave and swam to the surface, watching the water ripple as rain fell. He opened an umbrella as they breached the water's surface. Once there, he led Theo to a gazebo behind the village, weaving in between structures to get there. "Now when was this built exactly?" Theo asked, laughing a bit, letting the orcas hand fall free. "Built it while you weren't here! Thought it'd be nice to surprise you with." Orion said, ducking into the gazebo with Theo right behind. "May I have this dance, Your Hi-" Orion started before cutting himself off. "Theo. May I have this dance with you, Theo?" Orion asked, extending a hand to the other and bowing. Theo giggled before taking his hand. "Yes you may, Dear prince. Yes you may." Theo said, taking Orion's hand once more. Orion held Theo's hand in his own, swaying the other to the sounds of silent songs playing only in the orcas mind. Hours ticked by like minutes and next the two of them knew, it was night. They had both fallen into giggling fits as they realized the time of day and how long they'd stayed out. "Shall I walk you home, handsome?" Orion asked, taking Theo back towards the village. "I suppose so, prince." Theo said, giggling as Orion led him through the village. A sound was heard from the two as they ventured more and more into the village. "Is Faye practicing? At this hour I expected her to be back with Nel asleep!" Theo said, picking up the pace of his steps, letting go of Orion's hand. "Faye? What're you doing up?" Theo said, walking to his sister. "Just thought I'd get some practice in, Big Brother!~" 'Faye' said, turning to the siren. "Y-You're not Faye. Who the hell are you and what have you done with my sister?" Theo said, pulling his trident out towards the attacker. "Oh..sweet sweet Theo. You should learn not to run from loved ones..one day, you'll learn." The figure said, tone laced with malice. Before Theo's eyes, the figure of his sister morphed into that of an eel. "Jormun..w-what have you done with my sister?" Theo said, pointing the tip of his trident to the opposers throat. "That won't help you, Theo. We both know that. So don't even try with your flimsy weapon." Jormun said, a laugh rumbling in their throat as Theo pressed the trident further. "Get out of my village." Theo said, lowering the trident, still having it at the ready in case the eel tried anything. "Your village? Your village…right. The village that your boyfriend has worked on for days while you're nowhere to be found? The village you helped design and nothing more? This village is Orion's with your name in the after credits." Jormun said sternly, looking the Shark in the eyes. "W-What? N-No I've helped! I've helped plenty!" Theo said, taking a step back from the other. "Have you really? He's been up here every day, Theo. Working on the buildings and structures by himself. You've been here to pop in and out not offering a single hand to him! I mean really. You say you're helpful and strong but, what have you done to deserve those titles hm? Nothing." Jormun said, stepping toward him. Don't. Whatever you do, do not fucking engage. He's not worth your anger. Don't give them that satisfaction of your anger. Don't.

Theo sheathed his trident and began to walk away when a hand grabbed his wrist. "No no no. Where do you think you're going hm? Gonna go cry to Orion? That weird purple thing? Your wittle sister?? No one's gonna help you, Theo. Give up and just accept that you're not in power anymore! It's someone else's turn, yeah?" Jormun said, digging their nails into Theo's wrist causing pinpricks of blood to form. Theo snapped his eyes shut as he turned his head away from the eel

Nononono fuck please..Faye! Nel! Someone..?

"GET AWAY FROM HIM!" A voice called out from behind Jormun. That was all the warning he got before his wrist was freed and Jormun lay on the floor beneath the figure. "Theo! You ok?" The figure asked, keeping Jormun pinned. He couldn't respond..why couldn't he speak? He felt hands on his back and panicked, turning towards the other with eyes in slits. The hands let go and Jormun was dragged back to the sea. He could feel his breath heaving, heart pounding in his ears as the voices around him were muffled in his ears by fog. What was this..?

Chapter Text

What was this..?

"-eo? Theo!! You there? You with us bud?" A voice called out from in front of him. He shifted a bit in what he could only assume was a bed. "Mmm.." Theo groaned, opening his eyes. "There he is! How ya feelin, Theo?" The voice said. Once he had registered his surroundings and familiarities, he realized the voice was Moki's. "'M ok..shaken." Theo responded, sitting up. "Easy there! Don't sit up too fast, yeah?" Moki said, holding a hand out for him to grab. Theo took the others hand, looking around for anyone else. "Nel is at the tavern, Faye is out with Orion and I'm here with you. Nel got some minor injuries and Orion refused to leave your side all night. He must really care about ya Theo!" Moki said, getting off of the bed and walking to the kitchenette. Theo remained silent, finding words hard at the moment.

[Nel] Hey Theo! Thought you'd be awake by now so thought I'd text you! We're all ok, no major injuries sustained. We'll be back home soon, I bought some ingredients to make pot roast! I know we had it a lot at the kingdom so I thought, why not go down memory lane yeah? See you soon Theo, promise.

Theo smiled at the message, grateful that the other mer was looking out for him. Moki started preparing a snack when the door opened. "Moki, we're home!!" Orion said, setting his bag down and walking to put his things away. "Hi Moki! How's Theo?" Faye asked, sitting down. "How bout you come see for yourself yeah?" Moki said, smiling as he walked into Theo's room. As the two walked in Theo perked up his head, looking Faye in the eyes. "THEO!" Faye said, immediately dropping her things before rushing to Theo's arms. Theo opened his arms, happily accepting his sister's excitement. Faye fell into Theo's arms, hugging him close. "Theo! You're ok! What happened? If you wanna tell me." Faye said, releasing the hug and sitting at the edge of the bed. Theo remained as he looked away. "Jormun..?" Faye asked, not elaborating as to not make Theo panic more. Theo nodded looking his shoulder. Faye nodded, changing the subject to her adventure with Orion. She rambled before getting a text from Nel. "Nel wants to show me something. You gonna be ok with just you and Moki?" Faye asked, checking in before doing anything. "I'll live." Theo said, smiling at her as she grabbed her things. "I'll be back later ok? Call me if you need me!" Faye said, swimming out the doors. Moki smiled as he helped put things in their spots before bringing the snack back over to Theo's room. "Brought you a snack Theo! Don't eat too quickly, ok?" Moki said, setting a plate of kelp chips down on his lap. Theo nods letting Moki know that he was listening, just not responding. "Hey Moki, did Theo ever wa- Theo!" Orion said, cutting himself off to greet the other mer. "Ah ah ah- Orion, he just woke up. Let's give him some space, yeah?" Moki said, holding his arms out to stop the other mer from charging into Theo. "Right right. My bad, I'm sorry Theo." Orion said, sitting on the edge of the bed. Moki nodded, leaving the two alone. Theo moved the plate of kelp chips off of his lap before wrapping his arms around Orion's neck and pulling him into a hug. Orion hugged the other back, wrapping his arms around the other's torso. A silence fell among the two as Theo's gripped only tightened and quiet sobs filled the room. "You don't have to talk to me Theo..I'll be right here ok?" Orion said, holding the back of Theo's head. "Alive.." Theo muttered into Orion's neck. "Yeah Theo, I'm alive. So are you. We're alright." Orion said, releasing his arms. Theo released the hug, patting to his side. Orion smiled, sitting next to Theo and staying there till he calmed down. Hours passed by, many conversations happened and the sun set.

[Nel] Faye is home with me, don't stay up too late Theo. See you soon ok?

[Theo] I'll try. Sleep well Nel.

"Stay with me?" Theo asked, holding Orion's hand. Orion thought on it for a minute before smirking. "Only if I can hold your head to my chest!" Orion spoke, watching Theo giggle a little. "Fineeeee you can hold me Orion." Theo said, laying down to rest for the day. Orion laid down beside him, holding the back of his head, keeping him against his chest. Theo fell asleep listening to Orion's breathing and heartbeat home and safe, calm and serene. He was safe with people he loved once more..

Chapter Text

He was safe with the people he loved once more..

Theo's heart pounded in his chest as he ran through the maze of traps and walls before reaching outside. He heard a faint clicking of tripwire and turned to see a tripwire hook had activated meaning that if he moved even an inch, he was done for..As his breathing picked up again, trying to think of how to escape, he heard a familiar laugh. One he hadn'theard in years.."A delight to see you again, your highness."

Theo jolted awake, sitting up as his breath heaved. "Hnn..Theo? You alright?" Orion said, flipping over to face him. "Can't..Cant.." Theo said, rubbing his throat. "Can't? Can't what Theo?" Orion said, fully sitting up. Theo looked at him with panic in his eyes. "Ok ok, you don't have to talk. You can write it if that's easier, yeah?" Orion asked, grabbing a notepad and pen.

Can't words.. was written in very messy handwriting.

"That's ok. What can I do to help?" Orion asked, waiting for an answer.

Don't know.. Theo wrote, grip on the pen tightening.

"Hey hey, look at me. Wanna try to go back to bed?" Orion said, looking to him. Theo nodded, laying back down, back facing the other. "Want me to hold you? Face away? What can I do Theo?" Orion asked, waiting to lay back down. "Hold." Theo said, yanking the orca's hand towards him, forcing him to lay back down. "Ack! Ok ok!" Orion said, getting comfortable behind the other. The two fell back asleep, much tension in the air.

As the sun rose Orion woke up, letting Theo sleep in as he carefully got off of the bed. He scribbled out a note, tying it to one of the bed posts. "I'm sorry Theo..I can't be here and hurt you like this." Orion said, leaving the cave, swimming away.

When Theo woke up, he realized Orion's absence and grabbed his communicator.

[Theo] Orion, where'd you go?

[Orion] Away. Best read the note I left. I don't know how long I've got, Theo.

What does he mean by that?

Theo got off of the bed, walking away when he noticed the note.

Dear Theo, by the time you're reading this, I'm already gone. I was never supposed to be here. Marius sent me out to look for you and after I refused, he threatened my life. I've made my decision, my life over yours. Live your life Theo. Fall in love, make Faye happy and please, remember me so long as you live ok?

No..Orion..I trusted you. I told you things not even Faye knows and you up and leave!? Why did i think this was a good idea..?

[Theo] Orion come back here. Please..

[Orion] I'm already almost back to Eventide Theo. I'm not killing you.

[Theo] Then come back. We can arrange a plan that doesn't involve either of our heads on spikes yeah?

Theo waited for a response as his communicator went quiet.

[Orion] …Meet in the middle.

Theo considered it for a minute. Wondering if he would be truthful and really be alone, or backstab him and have soldiers with him. He set his communicator off to the side as he grabbed breakfast. As he finished eating, he came to a compromise. "If I go and he has soldiers ready, have Moki, Nel and Micah on standby. I'm not risking Faye's safety for some possible traitor." Theo said to himself, packing weapons and food as well as bandages. As Theo left, he made sure to notify Nel of his location, the others would know his location quicker if Nel knew first. Once Theo was getting closer to the agreed meeting point he sent out a final set of coordinates, ready to face whatever the orca had planned for him. "Theo! Over here, quickly!" A voice called out to him. He turned around to be greeted by a hooded Orion. Orion grabbed his wrist before dragging him into a secluded corner just outside of the village residing near Eventide. "Orion, I can swim on my own, you know that ri-" Theo was cut off by a hand over his mouth. "Theo, I need you to listen and listen close. You've gotta make this whole "plan" discussion quick and quiet. Cause if I'm spotted with you, both of our heads will roll." Orion said, uncovering the sharks mouth. Theo looked at him like he was insane. "Ok first, you cover my mouth out of nowhere like that again and I'm biting your fucking arm off. Second, why not just come back home, away from here where we could discuss this better?" Theo asked, yanking his wrist out of the others grasp. Orion sighed, looking around for any listeners or eavesdroppers. "I'm on a time limit. I have 2 weeks to have you and Faye back here, dead or alive and 2 weeks to get Nel here…dead. I figure I can just say I don't want to, get myself killed and you're safe." Orion said, sitting on a nearby pole of the dock. Theo sat across from him on another pole of the dock. "Do you know how fucking…stupid that plan is? You're not going to die, whether you come back empty handed or holding Nel's head on a spike. Marius knows we're still out there and that you're the only one close enough to the 3 of us to actually manage to kill us! He wouldn't kill you even if you said 'Fuck you' directly to his face! He wants us dead and if sending you out to do it is how he wants it done, it's going to get done. He's stubborn and won't stop until us 'traitors' are dead. Either, you come back home and prove him wrong or, you prove him right, betray us and kill us. We can talk this over at home. Now c'mon." Theo said, hopping off the pole to swim to Orion. An invisible cord in Orion's brain snapped as he started to tear up in front of the other mer. "Theo I can't! I can't leave here! Not because I don't want to but because there are guards posted at every fucking corner of this place that will interrogate anyone who enters. I found an empty spot while the guards changed, that's how you got in. Now, neither of us can leave here until they change again! I don't want you to get hurt or worse. You have a family waiting for you at home, I have a stuck up uncle who thinks he can get whatever he wants. So please when the guards change, just go home Theo..go home to Faye and Nel and Moki. Make them happy with your presence." Orion said, nearly breaking down as he spoke. Theo looked at him, concern in his face as he looked the other over for any discomfort. "Orion..what have they done to you..?" Theo said, taking the others hand before pulling him into a hug. Orion looked at him, eyes turning puffy and red as he fell into Theo's embrace. "So much Theo..so much." Orion said, gripping the others back. "Orion? Do I have your permission and consent to sing to you?" Theo asked, wanting to get consent before doing anything. Orion looked at him before nodding and laying his head back on Theo's shoulder. Theo sat with him there for hours, singing a siren song to lull him into a calmer state of mind.

"You're ok..You're alright. I'll stay here through the darkest night. All the way I will fight with you." Theo sang, rubbing circles into the orcas sides. As time passed, the orcas sobs seemed to slow and his breathing regulated. Orion lifted his head up, looking at Theo with the fear that once resided in his eyes replace itself with gratitude and thankfulness. "Now I'm pretty sure the guards are changing about now. Wanna get outta here?" Theo asked, releasing the other. Orion nodded, reaching back for Theo's hand. As the two swam past where guards would be posted, they both felt a sense of relief and freedom as they made their way home.

Upon arriving, they saw Faye curled up against Nel's back asleep. The two smiled letting them have their alone time as they chose a different room to rest in for the night. "Thank you Theo. For everything." Orion said, taking off the hooded cape before getting comfortable in the bed. Theo laughed a little as he laid beside the orca. "Consider it even for you helping me this morning with the nightmare." Theo said, watching the other fiddle with the sheets. "You never did tell me what it was about. Would you like to?" Orion asked, laying down on his side. Theo fell silent as he started to shrink in on himself. "You don't have to if you don't want to!" Orion added. "It was uh, about Andromeda. She was uh..her crew had captured me. I managed to escape, nearly. I had triggered a sand trap with tripwire and right when I was about to make my escape, I heard her laugh at my attempt. 'A delight to see you again, your highness' she said, taunting me. She got the last laugh in that situation as I was thrown right back in the holding cell. Was actually recently that this happened..haunts me even now." Theo explained, forcing the tears that started to well in his eyes back from falling. Orion pulled the siren close to his chest, kissing his hair. "Why didn't you tell anyone Theo? We would've been there to help you!" Orion asked, letting the other pull away if he wanted. Theo remained flush against Orion's chest, looping his arms behind the others back to hold his shoulders. "You weren't answering anything, Faye was sick and Nel was taking care of Faye. I had no one." Theo said, laying his head in the crook of Orion's neck. Orion nodded, not wanting to pressure Theo any further than needed. "Now, we've got your back ok Theo?" Orion asked, truthfulness in his tone. Theo giggled against the others skin. "I'm holding you to that y'know that right?" Theo said, gently scratching at Orion's scalp. Orion giggled as he nodded, holding the other close to him. Today was a lot..but it's good to get that off my chest.

Chapter Text

Today was a lot..but it's good to get that off my chest.

Theo swam around, hunting for food and resources when a hand grazed his back. "Hi love. Whatcha lookin for?" Orion asked, wrapping his arm around the other's waist. "Some food and resources for home. Saw we were running low so might as well right?" Theo said, relaxing against the orca's grip. "Mind if I help out? Wanna do something besides sit at home." Orion said, swimming to the others side. Theo nodded and swam towards a school of fish, killing them and putting them in his bag. Orion smiled and joined his boyfriend in collecting the fish. After a few hours of collecting materials, food and resources, the two headed home to prepare a meal. "Pass the bowl would you Theo?" Orion asked, looking towards his boyfriend. Theo nodded passing the bowl of dry ingredients consisting of flour, various seasonings and bread crumbs. Orion double battered the skinned and deboned fish filets, tossing them in the hot oil as Theo cleaned the kitchen counters. The two finished up dinner, sitting in Orion's room to eat, opting for the bed in the end. "So Theo, wanna tell me a bit more about that nightmare a few days ago? You don't have to of course love. Just wanna make sure I don't bring something up and you panic." Orion said, finishing up as he took their plates back to the kitchen.
You think your little song..is gonna work on me? You've got a sister don't you? We don't need yours. Though if it were up to me, I'd cut the cords right from your throat!
Theo snapped put of it with a gasp, on the verge of hyperventilating with how quick his breathing picked up. He got out of the bed, hand rushing to his throat as he checked he could still speak. "Hey hey, Theo. You're alright. You're ok baby I promise." Orion said, hearing his breathing and rushing into the room. "I'm here baby. Can you look at me dove?" Orion said, hands ghosting over Theo's as he spoke. Theo looked up at his boyfriend with his eyes half narrowed into slits. "There you are. Hi baby. Can you breathe for me darling? In and out ok?" Orion said, looking his boyfriend over for any kind of sign. "M-Mhm." Theo said, breathing slowing down as he . "1 for closer, 2 for space. Which do you want?" Orion asked, looking at the other mer. Theo only moved closer to Orion, hugging him close as he did. "Ack ok- that's a choice. Hi honey." Orion said, taking Theo's hands, rubbing his knuckles as he did. "What happened baby? What's wrong?" Orion asked, kissing his boyfriend's knuckles.
[Theo] Flashback
"Ok baby. Was it about the question I asked earlier?" Orion said, watching his boyfriend's pupils go from blown wide to slits back and forth. Theo nodded, trying to shake Andromeda's voice out of his head. "M ok..j-just need-" Theo said before he cut himself off. "Wanna sit down? We could sit on the bed if you want?" Orion asked, looking to the bed before looking back at Theo. Theo shook his head, opting to sit on the wood slab in the room. Orion followed, sitting next to Theo, facing him. "Wanna write it instead baby?" Orion asked, offering to get his notepad. "Mm-mm. Just wanna- mmm I don't know.." Theo said, looking down at the wood below him. "Walk me through what happened. What'd she say honey?" Orion asked, not forcing Theo to answer. "She said she wanted to rip my vocal cords out. I sang to try and get her to let me go, to no avail. She's a siren too so, neither her or her crew were persuaded or lulled by me singing." Theo said, tears welling in his eyes. "Oh baby...I promise, she can hurt you anymore. She'll need to get through a lot of people before she can even get close to you. I promise." Orion said, wiping the tears away just as they fell. "Orion..? Why do you stay with me? I mean after everything that's happened, you've stayed with me. I have a bounty for my head, a hefty one. Why do you stay with the runaway princess?" Theo asked, yanking his face out of Orion's hands, sobbing into the wood below. "Baby..You're not a princess anymore love. You've been a prince since you assigned yourself the name Theo. And I've stayed with the "runaway prince" because I like a lil danger now and then. Dating you is an added bonus to the danger of being on the run. If dating you is what gets me locked up, at least I'll get locked up protecting my prince." Orion said, kissing the tears on Theo's face away as he wrapped his arms around his waist. "But I'll always be Thalia, Princess of Eventide. Never Theo Sealan. So why call me Theo and Prince when I'll never be those things?" Theo asked, stopping fighting Orion's affection. "Because you're Theo Sealan. And you're my boyfriend. And you're my prince no matter how hard you try and deny it." Orion said, pulling Theo to his lap. Theo buried his face in Orion's neck, sobbing softly as he wrapped himself around his boyfriend. "Beautiful boy. My beautiful boy." Orion said, kissing the tips of Theo's fins. Theo giggled as his fins wiggled from the tickling feeling of Orion's lips on his fins. He flipped his face over so that he was looking directly at Orion's neck. "Imma bite you." Theo said, opening his mouth against the orca's neck. "Theoooo. Don't bite me! I've done nothing wronggggg!" Orion said, looking at his amused boyfriend, pushing his face away. "But I wanna show that I love you! Lemme bite you!" Theo said, biting at the air. "Gently baby. Bite gently." Orion said, letting Theo lay his head back in his neck. "I'm not gonna bite you Orion. You don't deserve to bear a scar caused by me." Theo said, gently kissing the crook of Orion's neck. Orion chuckled as Theo continued kissing his neck, rubbing his head and back as he did. Orion sure was good at keeping him in check. Maybe he should listen to what Orion says more often.

Chapter Text

Maybe next time he should listen to what Orion says more often.

Theo woke up to an empty bed, scattered clothes on the the floor and a note on the wall. As he walked to the note, he noticed tear drops making the ink runny.
Theo. I'm sorry it has to come to this. Meet me at the village outside of the Eventide. No weapons. No other person. Come alone and be quick. Republic Ruler Marius wishes to see you.

P.S. I'm so fucking sorry Theo..I don't want to fight you. Anyone but you. We'll figure something out. I promise. Meet me at the dock of the village.

-Orion

He lied to me..he told me he wouldn't leave me with them! I'll die if I go near that fucking village. He knows this and yet he's putting my life in danger. And to think I trusted him.. Theo scribbled a note to Faye and Nel with his coordinates as well as Eventide's coordinates before packing some supplies and leaving the house. As Theo swam through the ocean, dodging tridents from drowned and covering himself once he got closer to the meeting location. "There you are! Over here, quick!" The orcas voice said from behind him. Theo turned around to greet his lover when he felt the orcas lips press against his own. He hesitated accepting the kiss, not wanting to kiss a traitor. Orion released the kiss, looking to Theo with tears pricking his eyes. "Please just let me explain. I can explain everything just give me a chance." Orion said, pleading to the shark. "I- Did you just kiss me?!" Theo asked, ignoring the others question as his face tinted pink. "Yes. Yes I did. Oh fuck I just kissed you- Ok we can talk about that later. For now, let me explain everything. Please?" Orion said, face flushing."You have 5 minutes. Go." Theo said, crossing his arms. "Ok listen, I have a plan to keep you from dying and to keep me from getting my ass handed to me. As bad as this is going to sound, let them capture you. Stay there for a little while and I'll be back I promise. You won't need me to survive and it'll only be for a little bit. I'm going to try and convince Marius to let us "fight" instead of killing you. Please just trust me ok?." Orion said, taking the sharks hands. "I think I'll always need you Orion. You better keep your promise or your head will be on a spike by morning. That's all the warning you get. Understood?" Theo said, squeezing Orion's hands. "I will. I promise I will." Orion said, kissing Theo's knuckles.
As the two swam up to the surface, they talked about the plan further. "It should only be a few days. Then we'll "fight", we rough each other up a lil and then we go back home. When I drop you off, play along. Be dramatic a little bit. Think you can do that?" Orion said, kissing Theo's forehead. Theo nodded, giggling as Orion trailed kisses down his arms. Once on the surface, Orion lightly pinned Theo's arms to his back as he lead the other through the town. "Follow my lead." Orion whispered in Theo's ear. Theo walked through the town, hanging his head in fake sadness as the towns residents watched on.
"The Rulers nephew caught the wanted princess!"
"What's Marius going to do with her??"
"Thalia Sealan! Handed in by the prince's hands!"
"Finally some action around here!"
Theo fought back tears at the sound of her his name on their tongues. How it sounded so much more fitting than Theo. How it fit with everything else in her his life. Once at the castle, the doors were opened and Orion led the siren to Marius' throne room. "Remember Theo, be a little dramatic alright?" Orion said, pressing a light kiss just under the sirens ear. Theo nodded, fighting back blush and straightening up as they entered the throne room. "Well well, what do we have here! Princess Thalia Sealan! Handed over to me by my gracious nephew of course. Thank you Orion. You've done the republic well." Marius said, walking over to the pair. "I did as you asked. Shall I put her in the holding cell, Uncle?" Orion asked, looking to Marius. "Yes of course! Keep her there till we have the other two treacherous traitors in our grasp." Marius said, grinning. "Well about that dear uncle. I had a better idea as to what we could do with her." Orion said, looking down at Theo once more. "Oh? And what idea did you have nephew?" Marius asked, now curious what he had in mind. "I say we duel. Fight each other in the coliseum. If I win, I get to monitor Thalia privately whilst we wait for her sister and guard to arrive. If Thalia wins, she's allowed to be free for a little while longer." Orion said, tightening his grip on Theo's arms slightly. "Well there's no way she'll win so, let's do it!" Marius agreed. Orion nodded, taking Theo to the holding cells below the castle.
"..You didn't mean it when you called me Thalia right Orion..?" Theo asked, tears welling in his eyes. "Gods no Theo. You're a handsome prince and I promise this will all be over soon." Orion said, getting to the lower levels and greeting the guards as he passed them. Once he put Theo in the holding cell, he knelt down to be eye level with him. "Now say something as if I'm betraying you. Play along." Orion whispered, looking to the shark. "You can't just leave me alone here Orion! I need you please!" Theo cried out in faux betrayal. "Good job. Now, I talked to the other guards and convinced them to let me stay with you to "make sure you stay". So it won't be anyone else but me with you." Orion said, smile creeping onto his face. Night crept up on the two as they finally settled down for the night. "It'll only be a little while Theo. I promise." Orion said, laying down outside his cell. "You better not be lying Orion." Theo said, glaring at him. "I'm not. A few days of this, we "fight", I let you win and then we go the fuck back home." Orion said, getting as comfortable as he could on the concrete floor. "And we're gonna talk about what happened earlier right?" Theo teased, laying on the pallet of blankets in the cell. "I- yes Theo, we'll talk about earlier. But for now, rest up. Can't imagine your first day as captive will be easy." Orion said, chuckling. Theo smiled as he dozed off on the floor. Let's hope this works well..

Chapter Text

Let’s hope this works well..

“Theo! Come on, we’ve gotta get out of here!” Orion shouted, tugging the siren from his slumber. Theo mumbled in confusion at the orca, still rubbing the sleep out of his eyes. As they made their way up the stairs of the dungeon, they were met with two guards holding glowing tridents. “Ah! There you two are. Are you ready for your fight?” Marius asked, pushing past the guards. The pair froze in place, having both forgotten their true mission. “You didn’t forget about your fight, right?” Marius asked, chuckling. Orion let go of Theo’s hand, trying to put up the act of confidence as he had so many times. “I was just about to take Princess Thalia to her holding cell in the arena.” Orion said flatly. Marius nodded proudly, stepping off to the side to let the two pass by.

Once in the holding cell, the two tried to be quick with their actions. “We’ve just got to make it look believable. Rough each other up a little bit and hope they believe it. We can pull that off right?” Orion asked, pressing a kiss to the siren’s forehead. The siren gave a soft nod, forcing down the pang of panic and anxiety that came with being called a name he so greatly hated. “I love you, Theo. Nothing will ever change that.” Orion said, wiping away any stray tears that fell on the siren’s face. “You owe me so many fucking kisses when we’re back home.” Theo teased, huffing lightly. Orion chuckled, leaning in to kiss the siren before being interrupted. “There you are, Orion. Let’s get you to your side and then we may begin. I’m immensely proud of what you accomplished.” Marius said, gripping the orca’s shoulder. “Yes sir.” Orion said, straightening up. Orion shot Theo a pitiful look as he left, guilt hanging thickly in the air.

”Ladies and gentlemer! We have gathered here in this colosseum today to bear witness to one of the most brutal showdowns in history! On our left, Orion Gladigéan! Nephew to our gracious ruler, Marius!” The announcer shouted from the intercom. A raucous amount of cheers and roars erupted from the crowd. Orion emerged from his side, covered head to toe in weapons and light armor and a sly smile on his face. “And to our right, Thalia Sealan! Former princess of the Eventide Kingdom!” The announcer said, chuckling before falling silent. A cacophony of boos and uproar filled the crowd as Theo was announced. Theo walked out in similar garments, putting on a faux mask of confidence as he walked toward Orion in the middle. “At my command, the fight will begin! The bets of the crowd have been placed and the fight shall begin!” The announcer said, shutting off the intercom once more. The pair stared at each other in knowing, nodding softly to one another as they drew their weapons. Theo was the one to make the first move, striking Orion against the chest with the blunted tip of an axe. Orion stood firmly, only being slightly knocked back by the blow. As Orion charged toward Theo, the siren threw himself out of the way of the orca, dodging the attack with ease. Orion still managed to nick the siren’s lip, causing it to bleed. “Is that all you’ve got, Gladigéan? A bit of blood?” Theo teased, wiping the small amount off. Orion rolled his eyes, taking this opportunity to land a punch on the other’s lip, causing it to bruise and swell slightly. Theo was knocked back at the action, taking a moment to recover before meeting the orca’s gaze. “Well now you’ve got a pretty bruise to match it.” Orion remarked, chuckling loudly. While Orion was distracted, Theo struck him again in the chest, this time with the handle end of his axe. Orion got the wind knocked out of him in an instant, sending him into a coughing fit. While he was distracted, Theo landed a left hook to the orca’s jaw, connecting his fist with a satisfying pop. As Orion tumbled back, he met Theo’s gaze with a glare, as if warning the siren that he was hurt. “Now we can match!” Theo teased, catching his breath. A tense silence fell unto the crowd as they watched the pair glare at one another. Once Orion gained the breath back in his lungs, he swung his broad axe, aimed directly at the shark’s arm. Theo let out a groan of pain as the axe struck him, making a medium sized vertical cut on his arm. Theo crouched down to one knee on the colosseum, holding his arm as he hissed in pain. Orion huffed and held his side, adrenaline flowing through him as they fought. Blood seeped into the sand of the colosseum, staining the ground with the metallic liquid. “Give up yet, Princess?” Orion asked, placing the tip of his axe under Theo’s chin. Theo looked up at Orion, meeting his solemn yet confident gaze. “I yield..” Theo said, hanging his head in defeat. “We have our winner! Orion Gladigéan! Thank you all, lovely patrons, for your support in today’s activities!” The announcer said, bowing his head in respect. Before the two could walk away, a familiar face caught the pair’s eye.
Nel?? Where’s Faye?
Once the pair got back to the original holding cell, they gave each other the same look of worry. “So, we both agree that Nel’s face wasn’t right, right? I mean, obviously it was Nel but..he didn’t look too happy. He didn’t look like himself..” Theo said, still holding his bleeding arm. “Firstly, I snuck some bandages down here so give me your arm. Secondly, he absolutely didn’t look like himself. He looks like he hasn’t slept in days!” Orion said, gently tugging at the shark’s arm. Theo gave his arm to the orca as his thoughts raced. The sound of the door creaking snapped the two out of the tense silence. “Be quick, Kaufhaus. Don’t take too long down there.” A guard shouted, shutting the door behind the figure. The two tensed up as the shadow approached, staying unnervingly silent as they approached. “Nel!” Theo exclaimed, eyes widening. “Not too loud. Can’t have the guards knowing I lied, especially in the way I did.” Nel said, taking off their hood and sitting in front of the cell. “Ok, addressing the elephant in the room. Nel, when was the last time you slept? Or cleaned your cape?” Orion asked bluntly. Nel seemed to hesitate at the question, fidgeting with their hands before looking at Theo solemnly. “I don’t want to scare you but, Faye recently lost her last life. Before you freak out, she’s alright now, she’s safe and back at the castle. Me and Moki went to Valinda and asked if she could help. She was able to bring Faye back successfully, memories and all. All she’s waiting on is you, Theo.” Nel said, smiling softly at the prince. “What did you have to give..?” Theo asked, worry creeping in. “Both me and Moki gave a life for Faye. And we’d do it again if we had to.” Nel said, finally relaxing. “I figured..But how am I even supposed to get out of here? There are several guards posted around and even more guards posted outside the kingdom walls. Someone’s going to notice.” Theo retorted, slightly fearful. “That’s why I brought a little something.” Nel said, pulling out a medium sized satchel. The pair cocked their heads in confusion, looking to the bag. Nel cackled before opening the satchel, revealing a slew of makeup and disguises.

Looks like its group dress up time..

Chapter Text

Look like it’s group dress up time..

Nel carefully picked the lock of the cell, helping Theo out of his shackles. “I’ve got some supplies that can help us get out of here. At least that get us far enough away from the palace.” Nel said, opening the satchel. Theo rubbed his wrists, peeking inside the satchel. Nel pulled out an assortment of outfits, makeup palettes and wigs. “You can choose any of them but I’d advise you to be quick, the guards will be done changing soon. Wouldn’t want them to be suspicious of the captive being gone.” Nel explained, looking at the siren. Theo and Orion nodded at the jellyfish, carefully picking out an outfit. “This doesn’t look too much like my outfit already does it?” Theo asked, holding up a brown hooded cape. “Well no but I’d hope you’re wearing more than that.” Nel said, looking for a shirt. “I mean, I wouldn’t mind if that was all..” Orion muttered under his breath. Theo’s face flushed a light pink, smacking the back of the orca’s head. Orion snickered, picking up a white shirt and brown hooded cape. “Here.” Nel said, handing Theo a black shirt and tan khakis. Theo happily took the clothes, walking back into the cell to change. The other two faced away from him, allowing him privacy in the cell. Orion picked up the exact opposite of the shark, opting for the brown hooded cape to keep him hidden. Theo stepped out of the cell, depositing his old clothes in the satchel. “We’ll need to remember those are in there. Don’t wanna lose your actual clothes.” Nel said, adjusting the hood on his head. Theo nodded, nervousness still bubbling in his gut. Orion easily slipped the shirt on, fitting the cape over it. “Ready?” Orion asked, putting his hood on. Nel gave a confident nod, reaching for Theo’s hand. “We’ll get you home, Theo. We promise.” Nel said, smiling confidently. Theo shakily took the jellyfish’s hand, following after them. The group made their way out of the chamber, up to the entrance of the colosseum. They made their way through the tangling streets of what once was their home, briefly seeing just how much had changed with Marius as ruler. They made it to the gates by the skin of their teeth, swimming far enough just as the guards had settled in their positions. They were safe..

But that’s not where this ends, of course it’s not. Theo still has a sister to see, a father to talk to. Orion still has a story to tell, notebooks that need to be filled. Nel still has a princess to protect, a life to live. They’re going home..!

“Faye!” Theo exclaimed as he entered the castle, bounding toward his sister. “T-Theo? Theo!” Faye exclaimed, turning around to her brother. The two embraced each other in a tight hug, falling to the prismarine floors of the castle. “W-What happened? You’re bleeding!” Faye said, releasing the hug, still holding Theo’s shoulders. “We can talk about that later. What happened to you? Y-You died!” Theo asked, holding her upper arms. Faye took a moment to catch her breath and calm down, thoughts swirling in her brain. “I uh, I got captured by pirates. Well, me and Cella did. Nel and Moki tried to come get us but to no avail. Nel tried to bargain and before he could trick them, they shot me through the chest. Before I blacked out, I saw Nel and Moki knock the shit eating grin off the pirates’ faces. Moki is surprisingly strong when he wants to protect someone! I still remember how my blood looked..pooling and staining the sand beneath me..I wanted nothing but to text you. I wanted my brother..” Faye said, guilt hanging in the air. “It’s always been like that!” A voice chimed up. “Dad?” Theo asked, looking around. “Behind you, Seastar.” Morgan said, placing his hand on Theo’s other shoulder. Theo smiled softly, standing up to pull his father into a hug. “It’s always been like this?” Faye asked, standing up behind Theo. Morgan nodded, releasing Theo from the hug. “You’ve always wanted he- er, him to be around. You were like his shadow when the two of you were little. When Theo was learning and training, you always watched from the side. You followed in almost every step of his. You didn’t want to be exactly like him but, you did want to be pretty close.” Morgan said, smiling at them. “I really have always been this clingy!” Faye said, wrapping her arms around Theo’s waist. “You’ve always loved your brother. Through and through, you’ve loved your sibling.” Morgan said, ruffling Theo’s hair. “I even loved him when he chopped his tits off!” Faye said, giggling. The room erupted into laughter, Nel nearly toppling over in laughter. After a while, Morgan said his goodbyes and headed back to the necklace for the night. “Shall I make us dinner?” Nel said, pulling out the dried gnocchi. “Not alone you’re not. At least let us help.” Faye said, pulling out a pot. Nel sighed dramatically, pulling out cloves of garlic. Everyone grabbed the various ingredients from the cupboards and fridge. They grabbed the diced chicken, stalks of celery and white onion from the garden, carrots, olive oil, chicken broth, thyme, half & half, gnocchi and salt and pepper. Each of them played a part in preparing the night’s dinner. From cooking the chicken to chopping veggies and combining everything together, the kitchen quickly filled with laughter and light. Everyone settled at the table for the night, each having served themself a bowl of the gnocchi. “It’s nice..having you back here..” Faye muttered, lazily splashing her soup with her spoon. “It’s nice knowing my sister is still alive and well. It’s nice knowing you made it out of the witch’s house alive.” Theo said, smiling at his sister. The group all shared conversation and laughter as the sun set beyond the horizon.

So here he was, right where all of this began. How this part of his life came to be, how it played out. He sat on the middle of Orion’s bed, facing the end of the bed, he adjusted the ice pack pressed to his lip and let Orion grab bandages from the medical cabinet just in the bathroom. “Didn’t mean to hit you so hard, love.” Orion said, sitting down in front of Theo. As Orion carefully placed the gauze around his arm, Theo pressed a kiss to the orca’s forehead. “It’ll heal, hon.” Theo said, smiling softly. “I know it will but still. Your lip will have a scar on it and so will your arm.” Orion said, carefully wrapping the bandage around the shark’s arm. “More for you to kiss then.” Theo said smugly. Orion scoffed, gently flicking his boyfriend’s forehead. What a strange concept to him. The man he was supposed to kill, to fight, is sitting on his bed, being taken care of by him. Orion thought it was strange how he could be loved. He found it strange that someone like Theo, someone he was taught to despise, could love an orca like him. He never thought it to be that simple to love him, never
considered that he could be loved in such a way as this..
Same could be said for Theo. He had never exactly grown up around this kind of love, never was allowed to experience it. He had thought up until a few months ago, he was unloveable. He had received familial love for almost all his life, this wasn’t a new concept. It was this kind of love, the love he had and experienced with Orion, that threw him off so much. The fact that he had lived to see his sister again and not immediately killed really said something about how much Orion had convinced the kingdom that he was truly going to kill him. Sitting here now, smiling dopily at his boyfriend, was a moment he never wanted to end.
Lying back on the bed, the two of them got comfortable in the bed they shared. The two remained wordless, lying in silence next to each other as they entangled their legs together. “Goodnight, hon.” Orion said, pressing a kiss to the siren’s temple, wrapping an arm around his waist. “Goodnight, love.” Theo said, pressing a kiss to the orca’s nose, wrapping his non bandaged arm around his boyfriend.

He was happy with this chapter ending here. He now had everything he needed within walking distance again. He’d love nothing more than for this moment to last forever.