Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Everyone’s awake.”

Goggles blinked into a dream, seeing his shadow standing over him.

“Everyone?” Goggles asks.

“Everyone.” The shadow smiled, “And if you on the light side haven’t found them, you’ll find them soon enough. Sad that my team technically doesn’t exist anymore – but they’re with me. Their will. Their power. And that means we’re with you, too.”

“Oh.” Goggles said. He couldn’t decide if this was meant to be a good thing…

“Listen closely – You’ll want to go to the moth god. Several other shadows will be there. Where there are my friends, there are yours.” The shadow said, “Go. Find them. I want to find them.”

“Okay. I can do that for you.” Goggles said, then frowned slightly as he tried to sit up, but couldn’t. “hey… I have a question.”

“Fire away.”

“Which of my memories are real?” Goggles asked. “did everything that happened to me here… really happen?”

The shadow stared for a while. Piercing eyes of hazy colors staring deeply. And after a moment, they laid next to Goggles.

“Technically, both realities are true.” The shadow answered, “But I’m the copy of a dimensional interloper – all us shadows are, simply shaved off fragments of an observed reality. We’ve gained the power to form manifestations of books simply because the weilders all had significant importance in several realities. For an example, the fox survived a death game, as did the golden king. If you were to attune to me a little harder, you could remember these timelines too – but back to the main answer at hand. You remember my main reality so clearly, because you lost what happened to you here. You fractured through space time so hard, and this reality hit you so painfully, that even I thought the truth was too harsh, especially since I didn’t know if our team, Rider or Hachi were going to be there for you. As you found your friends, I let you have drips back. Once I knew who was out there, I let every one of your old memories back in, so to speak.”

“Wait – what do you mean timelines?!” Goggles asked, “Wait – I’m so confused, please slow down… how would I remember…?”

“Remember what you are, my dear warden. Remember the crack in spacetime you were flung through.” Shadow goggles said softly, brushing the hair out of the lighter side’s face, “Remember the hatred you felt, the devastation. Think. Why was it fair that only you felt such heartache? What keeps a warden alive? What feeds that cave in your chest?”

Like splotches of red on a bandaged wound, the answer was bleeding into his mind. Breathing, yet not breathing, the souls in his chest groaned and echoed. Screams of doomed lives, just trying to… win.

“You’re still feeding on it now.” They sneered. “I know you know, dear warden. or is that too generous a term? After all, Wardens don’t have such shiny eyes.”

The edges of the dream were fading to static. The echoing in goggles’ ears were so loud. He was trying to wake up, pinch his cheek, something – but the dream, or more accurately, his shadow, held him still. Still staring with infinite, tv-static eyes, flickering a dull green, yellow, red.

“Enjoy your world, Watcher. You wanted it.”

…

Goggles jolted awake, and would’ve fallen right out of bed – if he didn’t make his house just one entire floor of beds. He glanced around, almost expecting to see his shadow, only to find Hachi and Rider sleeping nearby, and hear the crash of the ocean tide outside, rumbling similarly to the static of his nightmare.

Quietly, Goggles got up and went outside, checking on the world around him. It was still dawn, and fairly dark. Creatures of the night still crawled about, and it did aggravate him – but each time Goggles thought about shutting them up, he’d remember the way the bodies would splatter to sculk – and shiver at the memory in disgust.

“Alright – I won’t kill anything p-personally then then. Only with my tridents and bows, that’s what I’ll use!” Goggles told himself. “As long as I don’t touch it… i-it won’t happen.”

Testing the idea, he retrieved his trusty trident from his bag, and flung it at a zombie. Bullseye, and… no sculk! Goggles pumped a fist in excitement. As he bent over to pick up the spoils of a dead zombie, Goggles then saw his chest bleeding through with sculk.

Panicked once again, Goggles ran inside to try and fix it, scrambling for a mirror. Once obtained, he pulled his shirt off and began to try to fix it. The cave in his chest was of course, open, the riblike teeth shuttering as he tried to scrape the sculk off the edges. It felt good, like scratching a nice itch, but it didn’t really do much – the sculk just still festered and dripped all over again.

And then he saw it.

Souls. Just like the kind that rose from Bobble’s lamps here and there.

But there were so many, swirling like a hurricane. He felt sick just watching.

Goggles, impulsively, went to try and grab one, but doing that made his whole body tremble violently – and he almost fell over. Ok, so no letting those free, unfortunately… why were there so many?!

“Goggles?”

Hearing his name, Goggles whirled around to see Hachi standing not far behind.

“Are you… okay?” Hachi asked, despite clearly seeing the whole gaping hole in his chest plain as day.

“I-I… don’t know.” Goggles admitted. “I had a dream about my shadow again and… I hate being a monster. I don’t like this. I hate it so much…”

“I know. Some changes are really rough…” Hachi said, and came close to give a hug.

Goggles flinched for a moment, but still accepted it. It’s a strange feeling, someone’s life against that weird, maybe-living hole, but it was still nice, if not just a bit sensitive. Goggles hugged tighter once he was sure it’s safe.

“But we’re back, and we will not leave.” Hachi said softly. Petting Goggles’ hair back in a comforting way. “No matter how you continue to change, or what you become in the end – I will still be here for you. I’m certain Rider will too.”

“Thanks, Hachi. You really do make me feel better.” Goggles said, finally cracking a smile.

“Anytime.” Hachi smiled. “Want some breakfast? I feel like making it.”

“Absolutely.” Goggles said.

After this, the two woke the rest of their friends with the smell of a good breakfast. Goggles remembered his shirt before talking to those that don’t know about it, and then, finally, began to talk of going to the goddess’ party. Not only for the festivities – but because Goggles wondered if a god could cure the cavern in his chest – take the souls and let them back into the world. Of course, goggles didn’t say that whole thing – just that the warden features weren’t natural and he wanted them gone before they possibly took over.

Luckily everyone was understanding, and Mask, the surprisingly kind cat he was, offered to be the guide when everyone was ready to get going. He and his team asserted themselves as boat crafters and map makers – all excited to continue the pilgrimage to the party.

Blue team dedicated themselves to food stocks, team Hachi to weaponry crafting, and yellow green to enchanting and armor. And of course, everyone was in charge of their own packing of whatever items they wanted to bring along.

With the path charted, and a day of preparation, everyone was ready to set sail. Specs was very anxious, but Headphones volunteered to swim by his boat, while Mask was to share and take care of the drive, and Bobble was scouting ahead every couple of hours to make sure no trouble was on the way.

Surprisingly, two decided to stay behind and watch things – this was Blazer and jersey. Jersey explained she was feeling lazy, and Blazer designated herself island watch because she had the power of exploding people if any thieves came along. They wave the group off, and all are in high spirits.

Especially Goggles – after all, he was fairly confident a god could save him from fate. Plus, the journey was absolutely an excuse to visit Hivemind again.

Maybe even ask if he knows what a Watcher is.

Chapter Text

Hivemind awoke early in the morning once again. He was up before Fierce was every time, and life was… comfortable. They occasionally got checked in on by Jet, Fierce’s good friend, and with her came some meats and other Nether delicacies, and he would send some mushrooms with her in exchange. Not only this, but the exports from the other dimension served to help Hive heal his wings quite a deal faster than usual. In fact, in their nearly-healed state, the elytrian could do short glides if he needed.

With as happy as he was about this, sometimes it was hard to keep Fierce entertained. Hive dearly wanted to explore with him whenever he left to scout around, but thanks to the nature of his journal, He couldn’t go very far from the Island without a terror overtaking him, causing him to zip back home. Double of course, Fierce now felt the need to protect hive from the damn thing and had now taken to sleeping in his bed with him – as if that does anything against a magic book. But, whatever makes him feel like he’s helping, Hivemind supposed.

As a per his routine at this point, Hive walked over to his rooted journal and checked through the pages for any updates.

>world updated successfully. See list for details.

>Invitation received: Moon goddess ceremony. Accept?

Hivemind squinted at the page, and grabbed his pen.

Are you even going to let me go? Or are you staying rooted?

>The rest are. Accept?

Fine. Accept.

>world-edit lock released. Pick me up.

Cautiously, Hivemind tried to lift the book from the lectern. With no trouble at all, the book was lifted away. Hive couldn’t help being both excited and a bit terrified.

Finally, he was free to explore some of the world! No more mycelium mushrooms and mooshrooms – he’d finally get a chance to miss this place!

He turned to wake Fierce and tell him – but then… he hesitated. Fierce saw his journal as a curse, he’d probably make Hive try to burn it or abandon it in a lake or lava pit or something. The thought of it burning made him deeply fearful, and so… Hive decided to pack the book away in his travel bag, gather some clothes, and start cooking a nice breakfast to make sure Fierce was in the mood for an adventure.

As he was cooking, he heard a hurried knock on the door. Visitors lately have been hostile, so he grabs his crossbow with a high-power firework loaded in before heading to the door.

Carefully, he clicked the button to slide the door open. “Hello?” Hive questioned.

There were just two visitors – one with a strange, futuristic head covering, and one wearing a hooded codskin cape, trembling as they held their bag close to them.

“Please let us in quickly. We were chased.” The one Hive recognized as Justice said.

Rather than argue and potentially let criminals get seen, Hive yanked them in and shut the door, setting it to a password lock. He trusted Justice at the very least.

“Go downstairs while I check the other door. If you hear your enemies looking for you, walk down the hall and shoot the first target block you see. That should hide you.” Hivemind instructed.

Justice gave a gentle nod, his damaged helmed sparking a bit. “Thank you, sir.”

“Just call me Hivemind. Or Hive. Most people do.” Hive called after them, briskly walking back to his room, grabbing the breakfast he made on the way.

He opens the door to see Fierce, awake, and already arguing with someone at the other door. Some punky younger guy that Hive also didn’t recognize…

“The hell are ya talkin’ about?? Fireflies are the size of pebbles, idiot! I’m tellin’ ya I ain’t seen shit like that!” Fierce told them.

The younger face, sporting wavy indigo-blue hair, dark skin and red eyes, leaned on the doorway casually, not intimidated in the slightest by the piglin before him. “You haven’t seen one – but that doesn’t mean it didn’t sneak in with the night. Just let me look around, won’tcha?”

“I don’t got the authority for that!!!! I told you 15 times, and if you ask one more time you’ll get punt to the fuckin’ moon!” Fierce yelled.

“What’s going on here…?” Hivemind sighed.

“Oh, finally – the one with brains, I assume?” the snarky one asked, causing Fierce to snarl and really get pissed.

“Why are you harassing my partner?” Hive asked, putting a gentle arm in front of Fierce to coax him into backing down, “If you’re begging for food or a firefly lantern, you’re getting cold soup and a jar of dead bugs.”

“No no, you can keep that – I’m a bounty hunter, you see.” The creature smiled, unfurling a sketched wanted poster of Justice. “The name’s Ocho. I’m after this little firefly monster here, and my colleagues have tracked him to this island. I already captured him once, and he stole away my little helper, so her life is on the line as well. Very tricky situation, and considering that your island only has caves and your house to hide within… may I peek around?”

Hive knew he was bullshitting. But he had plenty faith in his redstone, and the portal was unlit and hidden away behind more pistons and calibrated sculk.

“Go on then. You get five minutes before you are to leave, and there is one rule you are to follow on this island.” Hive said.

“Fair. Lay it on me.” Ocho replied.

“You will not harm my mooshrooms. If you hit them, you must stab yourself in the same manor. Kill one and suffer the loss of a limb. Understand? This goes for all of you, every single one of your colleagues. No matter how hungry they are.” Hive stated, clear and concise, making direct, intentional eye contact.

“Fair. They’re a rare species… I understand. Now please, let me root about quickly.” Ocho said.

Hive moved to the side, still close by Fierce as Ocho strode by.

“Are you seriously just letting him…?” Fierce hissed.

“Better to let things pass for now. I don’t trust him not to put up a fight.” Hive whispered back.

Ocho wandered around the base, and Hive followed.

“Thanks for letting me look… but you’re staying awfully close, aren’t you?” Ocho said, looking into the glass tanks full of different mob studies Hivemind had.

“It’s my house. I don’t want you nicking my stuff when I’m not lookin’.” Hive replied.

“Hm. Fair.” Ocho sighed.

Though he only gave him five minutes, the traveler was thurrough – looking into the basement, storage area, enterance to the dripstone cave beneath – and Hive hadn’t been down for quite a bit, because a horrible odor hit him right away when he stuck his nose down there.

“Ack- oh voids above, somethin’ hadto’ve died down there!” He muttered in disgust.

Ocho stared down into the pit for a long moment – probably longer than he meant to. He seemed for the moment, Ocho was disturbed for once, before regaining his composure and walking back up to the basement door.

“Doubt it, I know who that is down there. He must be… asleep – or stuck in a slime trap. Those things don’t die. Don’t worry yourself.” Ocho replied.

The wording… did not give Hive hope about the poor creature down there.

Either way, Ocho wrapped his search up, having found nothing in the way of what he was looking for. Ocho walked calmly back to the door, or so it mostly seemed.

“Thank you both for your time – my associates and I will be on our way.” Ocho said, then paused and said, “Oh – forgot one more thing. Just a moment.”

With this, Ocho retrieved a book from his own belongings. It was indigo-blue, and very distinctly metallic. Almost exactly like Hivemind’s, save for the color. Immediately upon seeing this, Fierce puts himself between Hive and Ocho, growling and snorting.

“The hell ya doing with one o’ those?!” Fierce said, “Get that away from here, we’re already trapped by Hive’s!”

Hive smacked a hand over Fierce’s snout, but it it was already too late.

“Oh, you’ve got one too? Now that’s interesting…” Ocho smiled. “What’s it do?”

“Not much that I can see – or well, at least, the power is a bit nonsensical. If you don’t know what modding is, you will not understand the full extent… and even if you do, it feels kind of impossible and verry very specific and limited, what one can do.” Hivemind said, scratching the back of his head.

“I mean, I’ve got a bit of time if you wanna tell about it.” Ocho said with a smile, scribbling in his own book as he watched the two, “I was already planning on a diamond or two for the hospitality, but I’ll definitely throw in a few more if you spill that little secret.”

Hivemind thought for a moment, and shrugged. “it’s a deal if you tell me what yours does.”

“Sure can – My book creates any kind of mining stone I desire – though it saps my health if I ask it too much. I can create any kind of iron, gold, amethyst, diamonds even… Just not netherite. That’s a nether thing after all.” Ocho explained, then added with a smile, “I find my influence has a nice reach! Money makes the world turn, ya know? Now… what’s yours do?” Ocho asked.

“Mine… is essentially one that monitors changes to the world at a vast scale. The range of creatures, what flora and mobs exist, down to surely even the ores you can find, and thus you can create… there is also a log of who dies and what way, personal achievements, and a way to communicate via messaging boxes with whoever else I like, though I don’t use it often because I cannot and will not connect to those I have not met in person. And I say monitor, because now that I think about it, well… even If I implement changes, such as, say, adding rice and recipes to use said rice in, Sakura forests, more mushrooms for my mushroom island, everyone else responds to this like it was already there forever and always, save for one interesting person who has a bit of a similar issue as me and notices what I add. Somehow. It’s weird, kind of a paradox if you ask me.” Hivemind rambles.

Ocho narrowed his eyes a bit. “Sounds like you’ve got a crazy god complex. The death alerts and instant messaging, sure, but I highly doubt you have the power to implement stuff. You just have a laggy, kinda useless book that tells you about shit everyone knows.”

Hive… felt kind of offended, but he shrugged it off. “Don’t call it a god complex. I know the book’s next to useless. So, the diamonds? Or am I letting Fierce chase you for insulting me?”

“Mm, I’ve already had my exercise, don’t need more.” Ocho decided, and from the pages of his book, he took 3 diamonds for each of them, handing them off before shutting his book and turning around. “Have a good one – if you see the outlaws, you can always message me.”

Fierce glanced between Hive, the departing Ocho, and the diamonds for a moment. He tosses the diamonds behind his back, brandishing his dagger. “I’d rather let Hive have em’. Chase ya around for bein’ a little jerk!”

Hivemind watched as Firece shoved past him, calling after him, “Fierce, don’t bother-“

But suddenly, a freezing wind hit his face – almost as cold as the void beneath the End.

Looking over, Hive sees Fierce frozen solid mid sprint, as Ocho grins in the doorway, six indigo tails swishing behind him whilst two droopy fox ears appear at the sides of his head.

“Like I said. I don’t want to play with you, porkchop.” Ocho sneered.

Ocho tapped the ice – knowing that he probably put too much power into the blow. “We done here, or are you gonna get all mad that I put your little piggy on ice?” he said, shifting his gaze to Hivemind.

BANG. the deafening sound of a close range firework fills the air.

Hivemind had shot him. His expression was unreadable, but tone clear in contempt as he held his crossbow high, already loaded with another charge: “Yer gonna turn him back, and yer gonna leave. NOW.”

Ocho receives a nasty burn, and in the face of that loaded weapon and his damage, decides to turn heel. “Hmm, with that attitude? I don’t wanna. Bye now!”

Of course, Hive now gives chase to the kitsune, running speed against the power of flight Hivemind has – though limited it is, Hivemind has begun to push himself just to catch the menace on his island. He. Will. Not. Let. Him. Leave!

Ocho weaves around the thick forest of mushrooms, but Hive is much too fast and knows this terrain better than anyone. He slams into Ocho’s side, knocking the kitsune’s bag far out of reach. Ocho is once again staring down the barrel of a loaded crossbow, now with those piercing, distinct eyes of an elytrian glowing through the dark of his shades – one red, the other blue, a difference rarely seen in End creatures. A strange buzzing was filling Ocho’s ears, and for the first time in his life, he realized he may actually be in trouble here…

“UNFREEZE FIERCE OR YER BECOMIN’ STARDUST!!” Hive screamed at him, voice breaking in his anger.

There was a very real problem – Ocho had no way of doing that. He only ever let his power run wild, like he was taught – he never once took back any of the cold he’s released. He genuinely didn’t know how.

“I… cant.” Ocho admitted, he wanted to freeze Hivemind too, but that loud, constant buzz was too much. He couldn’t focus. “Listen – I’ll try to make obsidian, I can just hire you a new one!”

A trembling fist grabbed Ocho by the hair – though Hive wasn’t strong at all, it was easy to tell he had put all the might he had into keeping the kitsune still, glaring deeply, making him understand how terribly he had messed up. He still didn’t fire the killing shot, but the weapon was now pressed to Ocho’s throat. Elytrian tears float up into the sky.

“HE’S MY BEST FUCKING FRIEND, YOU IDIOT!!!!” Hivemind screamed, despaired, “YOU FIND A FUCKING WAY TO FIX IT OR I’M TAKING YER DAMN LIFE NEXT!!!”

“I DON’T KNOW HOW!!” Ocho finally admitted, “I didn’t think he was important- I-“

With a screech unlike anything he’s heard in the overworld, Hivemind pulled the trigger. The flash of colors blinded Ocho, and once more he was burned with pain.

But he didn’t die.

Hive’s glasses fell in pieces to the ground, along with an arrow coated in a strange substance. The familiar scent of lavender and sleep filled the air with it. As Hive fell over unconscious, Ocho finally felt the will to move return – along with a buzzing wave of adrenaline.

Out of a treeline, Shady made himself known, lowering his own longbow. He took his telescope out, aiming it at Hivemind.

“Your curse nearly cost you this time.” Shady remarked, adjusting the thing as he studied Hive curiously, “Good thing I was lookin’ at stuff up here.”

“It’s not a curse.” Ocho muttered, finally picking himself up as mycelium clung to his back, “but… thanks, I guess.”

“Bet you’re glad wire didn’t see all that. Whatcha gonna do with the bug?” Shady asked.

Ocho frowned down at Hive, pulling clusters of grey off his shirt. “Give him a taste of how it feels to get pinned.”

But as Ocho reached out, nothing but a cool wind came.

He tried it once more. Again, again, again. Nothing.

“What the hell…?” Ocho murmured.

“What a Mystery… definitely one to think on later, though. A boat full of people just arrived, likely allies of the two. We should leave before there’s more trouble.”

Bitterly, Ocho agreed. “I’ll get this guy back another time. I don’t need reversal practice – his stupid boar shouldn’t’ve come at me.”

Ocho walked off, and Shady followed at a distance. “Dunno about that…”

…

Slowly, Hivemind regained consciousness, finding himself lying in his bed, head bandaged, eyewear missing. Almost immediately, he bolted upright.

“FIERCE!!” Hive yelled, glancing all around, “Fuck, I have to help him!”

“Hey, Hey! P-please calm down sir!” the cod-skin girl gently placed hands on his shoulders, neon-yellow eyes brimming with concern, “Y-youre ok – a-and Fierce is too. Mr. Justice thawed him out and your friends and I d-did our best to heal him. He’s still runnin’ cold, but we’re doing what we can.”

“where is he?!” Hive asked, still trying to get up despite the dizziness catching up with him, “Please, ya gotta let me see fer myself, I-I need to know!”

In a moment, frigid arms wrapped around Hivemind’s waist. “You’re so loud… I’m fine, see?”

Twisting around in the cold grasp, Hive is face to face with Fierce. He was shivering, cold, and wrapped in many blankets, but he was alive. Immediately Hivemind clung to the piglin, crying into his chest over how worried he was. He was almost certain that Fierce had been killed.

They held eachother tight for a while – or at least, hive held tight. They’re caught up to speed by the cod girl, Mitsuami, who explains the arrival of them, their discoveries, and the help sprung into action by Justice.

“So, Um…” Goggles poked his head into the room, once he was allowed entry, “No moon fest with us? With the attack and all…? I kinda wanted you to come.”

Hive sighed, “I don’t want to leave with my facewear in the state it’s in, sorry.”

“Aw! But I can glue it!” Goggles offered, “Stealth is pretty much made of glue!”

“I mean, I guess. Still… why are you going to this fest?” Hive asked.

“Food, party, cake usually.” Mask answered from his spot beside the group of allies.

“I’m going through some weirdness myself! I just want Mothera to maybe fix me because god, y’know?” Goggles explained.

Hive hummed softly. “Do you think she could help warm Fierce up…?”

Goggles thought. “Maybe! She’s a god!”

Fierce, Hive still in his arms, fell against the bed. “No need. That place is dumb. Piglins never die – all I need is some more coats.”

“M…maybe we’ll go later, if Fierce wants.” Hive answered. He couldn’t help the relief he felt as Fierce rested his head atop his own.

“Cool! And uh- one more thing –“ Goggles said, tilting his head, “Can we stay the night??? It’s dark!”

Hive rolled his eyes. Slowly, he was getting comfortable again.

“Sure.”

Chapter Text

Deep in the Nether, Gloves and Emperor Had dropped Gloves off at a huge structure – it seemed to be a bastion and fortress combination, the styles of brick and blackstone and, of course, gold, being main draws of the build. There was even a beautiful archway, where an archway of tempered glass let lava flow harmlessly over those that walk beneath. Arrays of strange plants unlike anything Gloves has ever seen also decorated a large portion of the front enterance – taking away some of the intimidating nature of the scenery. In short, the scene was simply majestic.

“You’re kidding…” Gloves said softly, eyes aglow in awe as they land.

“It’s no dream.” Emperor replied.

“You’re part of the nether king’s court?!” Gloves yelled.

A couple of nearby patrons snickered, before continuing their daily routines. Emperor seemed thrown off for the moment.

“…You could say that.” Emperor replied carefully, rolling with it for now. “Shall we fetch something from the royal gardens? I’m sure you’re in the market for something to eat after your troubles.”

“Oh god yes PLEASE.” Gloves replied, shifting in Emperor’s arms, “But uh, do you mind if I walk? Being carried was really nice, but my wings kinda feel stiff…”

“Not at all.” Emperor replied, and gently let the mothling down.

Gloves took a few steps before once again, they were reminded of the curse Death put on him. They began to fall, and of course Emperor was right there to help – but Gloves, determined, redoubled the efforts to walk. Despite how fatigued they felt, they wanted to fight what was happening to them…

“Can I… just lean a bit?” Gloves said, already falling a bit into Emperor’s side, “Stayin’ down can’t be any good…”

Emperor put an arm under theirs, gently drawing them upward. “Of course. Let’s make haste.”

They walked as quickly as they could, stopping every so often for breaths, or another fire resistance potion. Once they made it to the gardens, Emperor lead Gloves over to a nice little bench, plucking a strange fruit off of one of the plants that grew around arches that ran throughout the garden. It looked almost like an apple, but with a distinctly magma-like skin. Emperor easily split the fruit, and the inside was a strange, ethereal red. Not to mention, the similarities to the apple ended with the inside being very non-solid, dripping slowly like magma. Emperor offered up a half to Gloves.

“Outsiders find our foods an… acquired taste, but I hope it satisfies you at least a bit.” Emperor said.

“Thanks.” Gloves replied, and quickly snatched their offered half. Without hesitation, they bit into it, expecting the taste to be mild.

…it tasted exactly like a chocolate lava cake, fresh from the oven. Not even similarly – exactly like it!

Gloves could not hold themselves back from gorging on the thing. It was gone in about 30 seconds.

“Damn that was so good – do you have any more??” Gloves asked.

Emperor smiled and replied, “I’ll pick you some more – I’m shocked you like my favorite.”

A basket of Nether apples are picked, and the two sit with the basket situated between them. The more Gloves eats, the better they feel.

“So. Seems you have some prior knowledge of the Nether King, correct?” Emperor asked, occupying his hands with a nether apple stem, “What do you know?”

“I do! I know he’s one of the biggest dragons around – people say that the end dragons are strongest or even that the red dragon gives him a run for his money, but I completely disagree.”

“Oh~?” Emperor says.

“Yeah, people have like sooo much to say about him closin’ borders off, people being my jerk siblings, but he’s just doin’ what’s best to protect the nether and by extension the end! You can’t get Eyes without the blaze rods, so no triple world domination! Plus, I know mom says we shouldn’t care what happens as we are gods or whatever but you know what? I’ve been to places affected by the red dragon and honestly, siding with the nether king is absolutely the way to go, just to cut off the red dragon’s routes and make sure he can’t hurt anybody anymore! Plus, personal opinion? With what descriptions of the nether king and artworks I could find, he’s kind of gorgeous! Just a fact! There’s this beautiful mural of him in one of the books at the olde library and each time I do research I always check that one out to stare a little before I get down to work. His brother always comes to say hi or sends some fellows our way but the king is still holed up – I just hope he accepts the invite to the fest, that way maybe I could dance with him or maybe even just impress him a bit. Do you think I can visit him and figure out a way home? If I invite him to ma’s fest, do you think he’d come?” Gloves rambled on between bites, oblivious to who was sitting beside him.

“My, you sure do know quite a bit. And really, you’re quite the flatterer.” Emperor said, getting up from his seat casually.

“Aw, thanks! I could never say all that in front of the nether king though, I think – no matter how smoochable his snout is.” Gloves replied, blushing a bit as he waved a hand.

“Oh, I beg to differ.” Emperor said, walking a ways out in front of their spot.

With a shimmer of golden light, Emperor revealed his true form. He grew into his full height as a dragon, light rags to netherite jewelry, golden hair to shimmering spikes that mimicked the very same style, the fangs, the claws, and of course the beautiful eyes.

“You did just fine with your confessions, dear mothling~”

Gloves. Gloves felt like they were going to pass out again.

They did.

…

Next gloves awoke, they were in a rather nice bedroom. Emperor, now in his humanoid form again, stood by with an almost nervous air about him. It took Gloves a second to remember what happened.

“The king apologizes for that.” Emperor muttered. 

“...N-no need - you’re fine, I mean- just- you coulda told me!! At the start!!!” Gloves said, getting embarrassed all over again as they remembered.

“I usually walk around in this form when I am… avoiding paperwork.” Emperor admits, “I didn’t know I’d find you, I had to bring you somewhere safe and I wasn't certain if becoming a full dragon would give you a panic attack atop the stressful situation. I was… elated to learn you were not intimidated.” 

“Alright, I guess I get it. Sorry for the whole fainting spell thing, I’m not usually like this.” Gloves replied.

“I could guess. My brother’s accounts of you are that you’re tireless at your best.” Emperor hummed, beginning to pace. “I do have the resources to try a number of treatments, If you are willing. I do have a portal to the overworld, but with your circumstances it is dangerous for you to return without some form of self defense - not to mention that it’s hard for you to stand and walk, and flying is out of the question.” 

“But I’m sure mom could fix me!” Gloves said, “She’s a god after all! Ruler of the night!”

“But would your traitorous siblings allow you that far?” Emperor asked, “Thinking strategically, I doubt they’d welcome you home.”

“Right… ugh. Well. it’s not so bad to stay here. Let’s try and fix me before mom flips and does something everyone regrets.” Gloves says, giving a bit of a nervous smile.

“Indeed. What would you like to try first? We can attempt to just throw a bunch of health potions in a bath, or maybe find a piglin that has milk to trade…perhaps the fae of the forests have ideas.” Emperor said, offering a hand to help Gloves up.

“Let’s try that health potion plan!” Gloves replied, “It sounds kinda funny.”

Emperor calls for some of the help around the castle, and a potion bath is drawn, slowly but surely. In the meantime, they do find a piglin with that trade they needed, but the curse persists. A soak in the bath does make Gloves feel better while within it, but the benefits faded within a half an hour. One of the knights had the idea to try and physically scrub the curse markings off, and they tried this - but once again, to no avail. It was time, as a last resort, to visit the warped fae.

Since it would be a long flight, Emperor once again took the form of his full dragon and, with the help of some servants, Gloves is lifted onto emperor’s back. They take flight over a vast sea of lava, past basalt flats, soul sands, and smaller patches of forest…

“As we close in, I must warn you - the fae are somewhat of their own faction. We have a treaty with them - we only bother each other for help, and never cause a stir. You must be very polite, no matter the tricks they attempt. They in turn will know not to pull my tail too much, but tricks aside they may take an interest in your curse.” Emperor informed them.

“I see. We do have fae in the overworld! I’d kinda count as one myself - each individual one has their own rules, so I won't treat them any different.” Gloves says.

They soon come up upon an extra foggy warped forest - the air is thicker, and within the close fog, Gloves began to see small, faint lights - it must’ve been the inhabitants, telling by the way they moved.

As they land, a chorus of smaller voices spoke.

“The king is here. What brings you here? An offering? A friend?”

“A friend of mine.” Emperor answered, carefully letting Gloves slide down his wing before shrinking down to his favored form, “They’ve been cursed by Death, a night demigod. I was hoping you could help me find a cure for him - we’ve tried everything.” 

Several of the small lights in the fog crowd the two, picking up Gloves’ fingers in dainty, small hands, inspecting the black, inky darkness that now encompassed up to Gloves’ elbows. As some prodded their legs, they began to realize that it was likely taking root there, too - he had the same strange, cold lack of feeling. As a couple land on their head and poke at their carefully cultivated hair, Gloves does their best not to swat the little things away.

Bit by bit, the smaller fairies retreat, whispering together. Gloves would be bit more afraid if they were alone, but Emperor was a great comfort, putting a wing around Gloves’ shoulder. After some time, a small light separates from the rest.

“Come, deeper.” she said, “The archfey will know.” 

The fog begins to separate, forming a strange, distorted path through the fog. The single light floats at the center, beckoning to follow. Holding hands tightly, the two advance.

After a long, winding path, they finally made it to the center of the forest. The largest warped tree Gloves had ever seen stood at the center,  and within a hollow, the Archfae sat, keeping careful eye on a crystal ball. Her wings were a deep, dark blue, with spiraling patterns of cyan, purple, and red. Her hair was straight, long enough to fall to the floor - the same deep blue, but with cyan mycelium crawling up the ends. Her elegant clothes were made of fungi and stems, carefully woven and grown into a slim, sleek dress.

Her piercing red eyes did not move from their position as she said, “Good morrow, King. do you need me to spawn another daughter?”

“...I don’t make you do that, for the record.” Emperor said confusedly, “Vendetta, Bobble asked to help-”

“I know. I was being humorous.” she said, her face not moving from its resting position. “What have you brought before me?”

“Ah- u-um- hi. My name’s Gloves, and I kinda got flung here by my jerk siblings who also put a nasty lingering curse on me and I mean I just really need some help…” Gloves rambled nervously, desperately trying to read the woman’s mood to no avail.

“Very well. We shall see if it is truly nasty as you claim.” Vendetta said, swiping away her viewing window before sitting up straight, and sliding down the tree trunk to their level, towering over the both of them.

Vendetta knelt down, and placed clammy hands just below gloves’ chin, tilting their head this way and that. Gloves felt a strange, powerful energy rushing through him - testing nerves, feeling about on the inside of him. After a moment, she glanced over at Emperor.

“I’ve never seen a withering rot like this. You’re extremely lucky this hasn’t gotten to their mortal heart yet. It may soon consume their very soul if something is not done.” Vendetta announced. 

“I’M WHAT?!” Gloves yelled, and instantly began to panic before a wave of fairy magic dulled their senses.

“Stop that you’ll get worse.” she said, tapping their head.

“Well, what do we do about it? I would like to save Gloves, not watch them wither.” Emperor asked. 

“It will take an immense amount of magic to purge Gloves of this curse. After that, they will have to build their own ability from scratch, as if they were a hatchling. But luckily, between you and I, nether king, we will have just enough to fix it.” Vendetta explained. 

“Alright, let’s do it.” Emperor said, “Name your price after.” 

“Eager to fix, are we not? I suppose I will explain the procedure.” Vendetta said.

She opens her mouth, and a rolling cloud of smoky spores falls, clouding their vision. A small illusion is formed within the cloud, adding helpful little pictures to the incoming explanation.

“What I can give is limited - a spell that will give you the means to save them. What you can give, dear king, is about half of your power over this realm. At the cost of binding your hearts, the command over the life of this realm, and surely down to your rule as some may know it - this, brought to fruition by the ancient spell, will purge the withering and free dear Gloves from an unfortunate fate. Do you accept these terms?” Vendetta asked.

“I do.” Emperor answered immediately.

“Wait wait wait- this kinda sounds like- like marriage or something! Emperor are you sure you’re okay with this??” Gloves asked, kind of getting flustered before their knees buckle and give out again. Quickly, Emperor catches them, helping them steady out.

“It does. But I’m fine so long as it saves a life. Plus, that means another pair of hands for the paperwork. It all sounds like wins in my book, and I will not make you do what you do not want to. This is simply to save you.” Emperor replied, glancing over to the Archfae. “Let’s get this done quickly. They have no time to waste.” 

Vendetta nodded, and produced a warped wood staff from her sleeve. Popping her orb in place at its center, it began to glow as she recited the spell in strange tongues, mist swirling around them.

Slowly, two lights begin to glow - one from Gloves, the other from Emperor. One neon green, the other a golden sunshine. As the Golden light begins to blend with Gloves’ neon green, the deep black curse marks began to fade away into the mist. Slowly, Gloves felt stronger, able to stand. They could feel the way the warped woods buzzed with life beneath their feet, the patches of soul sand humming with vitality, the pure power of the blood forests - everything in the vast underworld they were in, living in chaotic harmony. The edges of Gloves’ wings even began to turn a light, salmony red-pink - a sign of the nether’s power present within them.

As the lights began to fade, two netherite bracelets formed - one around emperor’s wrist, the other around Gloves’. Both had heart-shaped gems on them - Gloves’ a lovely yellow, and Emperor’s a neon green. 

“The pact is sealed. Now, if one side is to perish, the other will inherit the dead’s power in full. Effectively, there are now two rulers of the Nether. Congratulations. I’m going back to watching my daughter’s journey now.” Vendetta explained, then flew back to the hollow she had been lounging in prior to the interruption.

For a while, the two stared at the bracelets. A quiet befalls them for several minutes.

“Literally marriage.” Gloves stated, eyes sparkling at the way the gem caught the light, reflecting reds and oranges in the facets.

Now it was Emperor’s turn to be slightly flustered - but he shook it off well enough. “Seems so… uh. How do you feel?” 

“Better than I have been! Definitely better. Not my usual, but at least the damn curse is gone.” Gloves said. 

“Yes. still, you should take things easy.” Emperor said. “Shall I bring us back home?”

“Yeah. I want more of the foods ya got down here! I could eat a hoglin right now, haha!” Gloves said, smiling and laughing it all off.

“Very well. Let’s go.”

As the two flew back home, Gloves couldn’t stop thinking as he clung to Emperor’s back. Things happen way too fast… but at least, they're glad they got to be so lucky.

Chapter Text

The End, despite the usual cold of the realm, had felt awfully warm lately.

Especially at the main island, with beauteous pillars of obsidian and the floating palace of the end king, things felt alive. New plants were beginning to grow, amethyst and teal flowers and ferns, creatures unlike anything seen in the other realms to inhabit small pools of starry water. Most beautiful of all, the purple wisteria that grew in a canopy over the end fountain - a plant rare to see grow in such a once-desolate place. 

Within the palace itself, one of the close friends of the draconic king was standing outside the door to his chambers - debating if she wanted to disturb the lovers within. Cautiously, she reached out a hand, and knocked quickly, fighting the ingrained urge to retreat to the safety of her shell for no reason. She didnt have much of one anyway as a half-ender. 

"Skull? Aviators? You decent? It's Stitch." She called out.

There was a long rustling of something - sheets, maybe - before skull answered, "what do you want? Its early."

Stitch side eyed the clock in the hall, clearly reading noon overworld time. "Were you not headed to Mothera's fest? Are you still gonna go?"

A soft hum from the room, then some whispering.

“Just lemme know. We will keep an eye on the palace.” Stitch said, and walked off.

Within the room, Aviators and Skull had huddled together under bedsheets, Skull lying lazily atop Aviators. The horde of pillows and blankets was a little bit more unkempt than usual lately, but Skull didn’t care - he had the most important of his treasures right beneath him. 

“Should we?” Skull asked softly, “I haven’t been outside the end that often… it feels worrisome.” 

“My dear, Mothera is our host - I’m certain it will be safe as can be there.” Aviators said, pulling skull a bit closer, “Plus, you’ve got me to protect you - not that you need that with how strong you are.” 

Skull chuckled softly, and gave Avi a soft kiss on the cheek. “I guess you’re right, dear. But… what should we wear? I don’t even know the kind of event…” 

“Hmmm…. Well, the skull bandanna and my shades are a must. I’m sure I have some wither bones with my stuff that could make for a lovely shade on a cape, maybe use some broken ender eyes for a starry sky effect… what do you think I should wear?” Avi asked curiously.

“No shirt.” Skull half-joked, nuzzling into avi’s slightly fluffy chest, “Show off everything. So people get jealous that you’re mine.”

Avi chuckled, sitting up a bit and holding the smaller humanoid in his lap, “I’ll see what I can do! But I’m a little bit shy about that, y’know.”

“Well don’t be. You got the best bod ever.” Skull said, squeezing Avi’s chubby sides to make a point, “Much to hold, much to kiss.” 

The two go on like this for a while, loving banter as they once again get tangled up in both the sheets and each other. Another hour rolls by, and then the two finally get up for some breakfast. Aviators prepares the meats, making a nice, hardy stew, and the two sit close together eating their meal. 

“According to reports,” Avi began between bites, “The end portal can lead to two potential dropoffs - Blue Isles and a mushroom island with a lab in the middle. Blue isles has impressive architecture, but small range for an empire and not much to look at, while the mushroom area is pretty huge. From both though, Mothera’s kingdom is roughlyyyy 10,000 blocks out.” Aviators reported, mulling over some documents dropped off by one of the court members.

“Pretty long way…” Skull hummed, tapping his bowl, “Maybe we should travel with a few people - who lives at these places? Are they allied with us?”

“Surprisingly, they are - or at the very least they keep away from the war. Live updates say that bobble is at the mushroom island, so that means both parties are just about gathered there. Though… it may be a bit faster to just have you fly. Or see if we can get a nether portal exemption from Emperor.”

“Ick. Emperor’s courts are slow.” Skull said, “I’d rather gear up and try to fly.” 

“Gotcha. Other allied or neutral travel grounds include…” Avi says adjusting his sunglasses, “Sunset meadow, the prince’s trench, frostblood, The Lush’s cave system, and Cooked Mesa. there are also uninhabited spots, war-scarred areas that hopefully won’t notice us. As long as we travel light, it should be fine if we have to go through some potentially hostile spots between us and the destination.”

As Avi relayed the information, Skull got up and stretched, beginning to gather some stuff for the trip. The purple book, plenty of sweets, some diamond-engraved netherite, and of course, his special amethyst bow, complete with dragon scale arrows, made with his shed scales of course. 

“Avi, do you want a weapon? I could fashion you a quick firing bow, or a sword…” Skull said.

“Hmm, a sword is fine! Thank you, sweetheart.” Avi said, taking out his map and plotting out a route. 

Once all preparations are made, the two leave Paisley and Stitch to watch the castle as they head for the fountain gate. They stand on the edge of the fountain, looking into the portal below. The strange space ripples, and then shows the drop below - the mushroom lands with a big lab nestled between the colorful shrooms.

“Are you ready to come to the surface, Skull?” Aviators asked.

“It’s been a while…” Skull admitted, “And my last outing wasn’t so kind…” 

Aviators grabbed skull’s hand. “Then that means I’ll have to make it the best outing you’ve had - and protect you all the while.”

Skull, though his face was covered by his signature bandanna, had smiled at Avi’s words. He nuzzled into the other gently. “And I’ll have your back - nothing will get the chance to hit as long as you’re in my sights, my love.” 

The two cant help but share another hug, and a quick kiss. As they do, Skull slips by accident and falls into the gate, having to sprout his wings as they fell through the air. It takes a moment for Skull to flip himself so that he can stop their descent, but once he does, he glides through the air smoothly, his werewolf safely in his arms.

“Sorry.” Skull sighed, “I uh. Forgot where we were for a minute.”

Avi laughed. “Guess my kisses make you lose yourself, huh?” 

Skull laughed as well, “I can’t help being lost in your eyes~” 

Once again the two are giggling and being cute, and once again Skull must swerve up to avoid flying straight into a mountainside.

“I… may want to focus on flying.” Skull muttered.

“Yep - I’d prefer to kiss you and not the mountains.” Avi replied.

“Yeah. Map?”

“I gotcha. From the mountains here, go left and we’ll be by the shores near sunset meadow. We’ll reach by sundown, So our best bet is asking the locals for a spot to bunker down.” 

“Alright. Good thing I brought my good pillows.” 

The flight goes on without any more mishaps, and as the golden rays of the sunset cross the horizon, they arrive at the meadows, blooming in pinks and oranges. Carefully, Skull sets Aviators down before landing himself, observing the beautiful flowers and lanterns poking up from the bundles of flora, keeping mobs at bay. It seemed most of the inhabitants were settling down for the night, bundles upon bundles of goods to be taken to the fest gathered in carts and horse cargo, ready to ship at the break of dawn.

“Gosh, this place is beautiful.” Avi said, “I kinda wanna dance in the flowers with you right here.” 

“It is pretty peaceful. But still, we have to make sure we can stay.” Skull said, glancing around for anyone to talk to.

He didn’t spot anyone, but he felt a strange impulse to check his book. Skull took it from his inventory, and carefully opened it up. 

Look for the ties, silly.  

That’s all that was written on the page he opened it to. Confused, he looked up, and saw something strange - bundles of strings, shimmering faintly, leading mostly to unknown ends. 

Except for one - he saw it starting tied to the palm of a glowing silhouette in the big sakura tree of the meadow, seemingly already down for the count. But as the string pulsed faintly with color, as if slowly, newly forming, Skull could see that the string lead down and off towards the sunset, towards a distant cliff. 

“I think someone’s this way.” Skull said, beginning to follow the string. 

It took a bit of walking, unsteadily on two legs as he hadn’t had much practice, but he found the other end. A bee in an army beret and flower crown, sitting on the edge and trying to write in peace, a lantern by his side. As he wrote, smiling to himself, the flowers beneath him were shimmering. Even as the sun set, white tulips glowed with an orangey-gold glow, before being dyed a vivid pink, and finally bursting into bloom, the smell hitting Skull right in the candy cravings. Skull almost didn’t want to bother the bee hybrid, in his own little world… but he and his boyfriend needed a place to stay before night fell.

“You the ruler of this land?” Skull asked, and made the unsuspecting bee yelp, slamming his book shut.

“I- what- oh,the enderdragon. Don’t scare me like that!” he said, before realizing just what he said and yelling, “WAIT, WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING OUTSIDE THE END?!” 

“Moon goddess calls. Also, you’re going to call me ‘Skull’, not Enderdragon.” Skull said, taking a sweet from his bag and popping it in his mouth. 

“Well- okay- skull,” the man stammered, “Still, you should be careful out of territory! You’re a high priority target, you know!” 

“I do know. And that’s why my boyfriend and I need shelter until morning, which I do hope you could provide.” Skull said.

“I-if not, it’s fine.” Aviators added, “We get the whole target thing, so if you want us gone, we can go, mr. bee.” 

“Just call me Army. mr. Bee sounds stupid.” Army said, "I believe I might be able to house you. Come quickly.”

With this, Army stood and hurried past the two. They went someways out to a clear plot of flowers, Army placing down some lanterns as he went. It confused the two for a moment, watching him circle the area and place lanterns as needed. After some time, he nodded to himself before walking over to the couple again.

“Alright, what kind of tree do you prefer? Better pick a nice one.” Army said.

For a moment, the two thought. 

“Agh, purpuras don’t grow outside the end…” Avi sighed.

“I wouldn’t like that anyway.” Army quipped.

“Hmm…” Skull murmured, tapping his chin, “I can’t remember if this is a real plant, or something I dreamt up… are overworld wisterias real?” 

“Lucky for us all, they are! Excellent choice, Skull.” Army said with a smile.

Walking to the center of the spot, Army knelt down, planting a sapling in the ground before placing his hands into the soft grass below. Golden orange light began to glow beneath him, spreading out to a wide area. Suddenly, the wisteria tree began to grow rapidly, going through its seasons over and over as it grew and flourished. Soon enough, as Army backed up, there was a huge, gorgeous Wisteria tree before the trio, wood an ashen purple, and flowers draping down in gorgeous wisps. For Skull, it was like an exact window into his dream…

“Consider it a little space to… signify an alliance, I guess. I’m tired.” Army sighed, stretching a bit. “There’s plenty of space at the center of the trunk for beds, and wisteria has a magical property of repelling monsters, and is thus safe to sleep under. Plus you get the privacy the flowering vines provide. Feel free to decorate if you ever visit in the future.”

“It’s gorgeous…” Skull said softly.

“Thank you so much, king Army.” Aviators said with a little bow, “This is quite kind, given the little daylight left. If there’s anything we can do for you in the future, please, let us know.” 

“No problem. I’ll think of a favor sometime later or something…” Army said with a yawn. “Get rest. We move out at dawn, so know you’ll be alone if you sleep in.”

Skull simply nodded, and Army began to walk to his shared sakura treehouse. Skull flew Avi to the center of the tree, where the two set up their bedding for the night.

As darkness overtook the world, the wisteria began to glow with a soft, faint light - glowing in the dark, a haze of dreamy light around the two.

“You really picked the right guy to help.” Avi said, in awe of the flowers that surrounded them both.

“Guess so. It really does feel like I've been in one of these before… maybe even resting with you the same way.” Skull said. 

“Dreams are funny things.” Avi said, laying back into the soft pillows, “Sometimes they let you peek into what comes next - sometimes they’re just pretty coincidental.” 

“Yeah. it was really a vivid dream, though. Back from when I had forgotten things. I’d always be sad to wake up from the wisteria dream…” Skull reminisced, laying beside Avi.

“What would happen in it?” Avi asked.

“Well…” Skull began, flushed purple as he reminisced, “I’d be laying under the flowers with someone. Just like now, with you. Just… gettin’ cuddled and kissed and stuff. It felt all sweet and warm… and… we, well… I shouldn’t say more, in case someone’s out there listening…”

“I see.” Aviators said, rolling over and atop Skull, causing the dragon to blush a bit harder. “Well, I’m sure I could kiss ya better than a mystery dream blob guy. If you want~”

Skull blushed as a gentle kiss was placed on his lips, the bandanna he wore a slight barrier to the warmth of Avi’s touch. “Gods, I’d love nothin’ more~”

Skull lifted the shades from Avi’s face, and Aviators undid Skull’s bandanna. They set the precious items aside, and carried on with their kisses.

Tails intertwined, Skull had what was probably the record set for his longest night - but not one bit of this was unpleasant.

And he knew, this time, when he’d awaken in the morning, he would never be alone again.

Chapter Text

Back at Hivemind’s island, blue team and friends awoke in their guest beds, provided by Hive. oddly enough, it was Goggles who had woken up first, startled awake by a nightmare.

“And the first awakens…” Mask muttered from the corner, “Ya look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

“I-I’m fine,” Goggles muttered quickly, getting his breathing under control, “I’m fine, I’m fine… did you even sleep…?” 

“Nope. I don’t do that until I’m saaafe.” Mask explained, pointing at Goggles, “so that doesn’t happen.” 

It took Goggles a second to get what Mask meant, but it clicked in the end. “You seriously don’t sleep the whole fest trip?” 

“Nope. and Usually I have somethin’ to do, like man a boat, or hunt.” Mask sighed, “But nothing comes out on these damn islands. It’s creepy. And the spacething made me come back inside around 2 in the morning.”

“Spacething?” Goggles asked.

“Yeah. what’s their face… um… Justice.” Mask said. “They wouldn’t’ve bothered me that late if your buddy Specs didn’t stay up talkin’ so long with them.” 

“Aw! I’m glad he’s making friends!!” Goggles said, grinning. “What’s Justice like? I know we’ve been here for a day or two, making sure we have enough boats and crafting Hive and Fierce some odds and ends, but I never get to talk to them!”

Of course, Goggles did have old memories of Justice - he just wanted to see if they stayed true, or varied in some ways.

“Well for one the thing is like… some sort of firefly. Demigod. Thing.” Mask said, “and that weird ancient tech lets them know way too much in my opinion. Anxiety disorder my ass - I don’t even know what a dysphoria is. Depression? Sure, but like. That guy is makin’ stuff up, unless its an old ancient word. I’ll have to ask Rider.”

“Um… you can ask me what dysphoria is. It’s not just an ancients thing, plenty people get it.” Goggles explained, doing his best to be helpful.

Mask seemed to stare for a minute. “Ok. Tell me what it is. Spacething just kinda said words to me and told me to go try to lay down.”

“Dysphoria is like… you are in your skin, but your skin feels wrong. Certain parts do.” Goggles explained, “Like way back in the day, I had a really big chest - and it was bad and wrong to my brain. Other people looked fine if they had one - but to me, on me, it felt gross. But, due to the procedures they had to do to me back then, they had to cut my chest a lot, and my surgeon was kind of awesome and made an excuse to my parents on why I needed a top surgery procedure - something something to let the sculk settle, I forget the wording. But just like that, big chest gone, and the dysphoria left! It only really bothered me when people called me a girl, but everyone that used to do that is dead now :)” 

“...Huh.” Mask said, “so its… not wanting boobs? I mean…”

“Nono, it’s just having an ick over one’s own features, sorta. Like, say, if you want to be more feminine, but you don't have the parts or more masculine and you don’t have those parts - it could mean different things for different people. Like… Justice could be wrong,  they have been before, but dysphoria is just like. Having those icks and getting anxiety or depression or terrible thoughts over it.” goggles said, humming a bit before adding, “Or at least that's the way I understand and experience it.”

Mask thought for a moment, his cat tail flicking around. “I mean. Your little pixie friend makes me seethe, but there’s no reason for that so I just try not to look at her.”

“Well don’t feel like that! Have you thought about what specifically makes you feel that way? I promise, Bobble is nice!”

“Well… she always seems so damn happy for one.” Mask began, “She makes her hair so short but I don’t understand how she likes that - my parents would buzz mine short, something-something boys must have short hair yadda yadda fleas, and it’s awful. And your home is so hot and stuffy - and yet both your gal pals don’t break a sweat with their short sleeves and skirts and crap - no thick black cathair tufts. It’s not like - It’s not like I find them pretty or whatever. But it’s not like I hate them either. I want to be comfortable around em’, but I’m not. For whatever reason.”

“And there’s no crushing happening?” Goggles asked.

“Ew, no. like I said, I like boys mostly.” Mask replied, then added under his breath, “I don’t need two on you island idiots…” 

“Then…hm…” Goggles thought for a moment, having only heard the first bit. “Let’s say, maybe you don’t have dysphoria stuff happening. Not quite. But. do you want to be like Bobble and Headphones? By that I mean, wearing short sleeves, or maybe a nice hat?”

Mask seemed to squint - but it was hard to tell with his gas mask in the way. “I… don’t know.”

“I don’t mean to dress exactly like them, but I could see you benefiting from a sun hat! That way you don’t have to wear your purple long sleeves in the heat.” Goggles explained.

“That… does sound nice.” Mask admitted.

“Awesome! I’ll see if I can craft a hat for ya, ok? I’ll be back!!” Goggles said, and then ran off before Mask could stop him.

Mask didn’t really follow Goggles at that point - just stayed in the quiet for a bit.

“I love that boy so much.” Hachi spoke up, startling Mask pretty badly.

“Geez, don’t do that!!” Mask snapped, “Since when did you get up?!”

“I only need about a quarter of the sleep regular humans need as an android.” Hachi explained, sitting up with a little stretch, “Some nights I sleep, some I do not. And the nights I do not, I cuddle up with my boyfriends and listen to their heartbeats~ It’s really a lovely sound.”

“Huh. that’s… sorta charming. In a really weird way.” Mask shrugged.

“To each their own. So, I heard you mutter about a crush?” Hachi asked. 

Once again, Mask seemed to freeze up. “I-i never said that!”

“You did. You said, ‘I don’t need two on you island idiots!’ And that implies you like someone that lives on the isles. Considering the obvious relationship between goggles, rider and I, and the fact you don’t like girls, that leaves few options.” Hachi said, and leaned in unblinkingly. “So, who is it? The slime boy Stealth, my acquaintance Afro, or Specs? I will not tell. I’m curious.”

Mask squints. “Two of those don’t technically live on the island, you know. Stealth lives in the lush caves and I’m pretty sure Afro, like, roams from what I gather about that weirdo.”

Hachi smiled. “So it is Specs then. I see. Rider owes me kisses now.”

Mask hissed. “Not so loud!!! Shut up!!!!!!”

As if on cue, the half-illager awoke, his snores stopped by Mask’s shout. He shot up to a sitting position, hands fumbling for his glasses. 

“H-huh- wha- whatsthematter?!” Specs said quickly, his shaggy hair flopping two and fro as he shook his head of sleep and placed his glasses on, glancing around for trouble.

Hachi smiled. “Nothing much. But good morning - did you sleep well?” He spoke as casually as he could be.

“Hmm… yeah. Hive has some nice guest beds.” Specs said, slowly getting up and grabbing his backpack to check through. “I could’ve swore I heard someone yell though…” 

“Weird. None of us did.” Mask said unconvincingly, earning themselves a bit of a strange look from Specs before they added, “Well- i mean- I did a little, but it’s the android’s fault!”

Specs glanced over at Hachi, who was currently in the process of gently rousing Rider from his sleep. “Sorry~ I was being silly. But Mask is sillier… speaking of, shouldn’t you guys get ready to head off? Charting a course and such?”

“I guess so…” Specs said, pulling his map from the bag and inspecting it. “Hmm… 10,000 blocks range, still??? Ugh, at least there’s not a lot of ocean between us and the next piece of land… I really hate boats…”

Mask walks over, quietly peeking over his shoulder. Carefully glancing at the map, he points out some places. “There’s an ancient monument here,  so we have to avoid this part - if we keep along the reefs over here, it should cut the time we’re in water by quite a bit. Plus, the reefs are kinda pretty to look at - it makes the water not so bad.” 

“Oh, I see - I-I hope you’re right…” Specs said softly, “After that, what’s the best path through here…?”

…

Back with Goggles, the prince was carefully weaving a straw hat. Not all his creations were perfect, but he had a good idea for this one - large brim, black bow, maybe some blue bells… all additions that were up to mask to keep, of course. Plus, the act was calming after the nightmare he had.

The impressions of the dream still lingered within goggles - looking on as old friends tore themselves apart until one was left. A world with all them in it, engulfed by flames until a dragon is born from them. Tying them together in red ribbons before they dropped in pairs; limbs snapping and crunching in horrible ways, one surviving by dumb luck, just the right cut. Watching his friends slowly succumb to a strange insanity, until it poisoned him too… and he… was simply stabbed in the back.

A touch on his shoulder caused him to jump out of his chair with a shout and spin around.

“S-sorry!” the girl that had touched him immediately backed off 5 feet, codskin cape held tightly over her head, “I- just- you seemed really upset??? A-and my little buddy was worried… I’m sorry, I should’ve said something!”

“Its fine! I’m fine!” Goggles insisted, then realized he sort of crumpled his work, “Ah- well, I guess I kinda can’t get this right, though. Do you know how to make hats??”

“Oh! I’ve spent plenty time lookin’ after myself, sure.” she says, smiling gently.

She gently takes the hat from Goggles, and carefully begins to weave with an expert hand. “Um… did i ever get your name?”

“It’s Goggles!” Goggles replied with a smile, “Goggles of Blue Isles. Who are you?”

“Well, people know me by a lot of names - scrap girl, lady of the cod, soldier - but my real name is MItsuami. Take your pick.”  she glances down as a small, round little fish skittered out from behind her feet.

Goggles stared in awe - it seemed there was no change to lil’ buddy’s appearance - still a smallfry, perhaps a little rounder and plumper, perhaps a bit different in color - more matching Mitsuami’s cod skin cape.

“Well, it’s nice to meet you Mitsuami! And your lil’ buddy too…” Goggles says, crouching down and putting his hand out for the fish to sniff. “What is he?”

“Yeah! Lil buddy is a fish god.” Mitsuami said, casual as day. 

“Aww he’s so cu- wait god?” Goggles says.

“Mhm! God of evolution, oceans, the forward progression of time of sea creatures - there’s a lot of hypotheticals but in general my little boy has a lot to do with fish!”

Lil’ buddy cuddles up to Goggles’ hand, as he figures that’s the reason the fish is such a mix of traits more than a salmonid. He pets the little thing.

“That’s cool to know. We could use a little of a god’s luck, haha…” Goggles replied with a smile. “How’d you end up taking care of him?”

“My village fell to the forces of the red dragon - in order to protect him, I surrendered myself to the troops and kept him hidden. Justice gave us a good opportunity to flee, and now… here we are. I just hope to make it to the safety of  Mothera’s lands, and soon…” Mitsuami explained. 

“Oh, dang - you’re really brave!” Goggles complimented.

Mitsuami waves a hand, “Mmm… n-nah. I was terrified, and I’m still terrified about this being something I gotta deal with, you know?? Outta my fins to choose!”

“Gosh, do I know what ya mean by that…” Goggles said, adding quietly, “I still don’t know what it means to be a watcher, or whatever…” 

“A what.” Mitsuami spoke, her tone and demeanor changing rigidly just for a minute.

For a good minute, Goggles didn’t know how to answer her. Lil’ buddy finished nibbling on his fingers and retreated to her shoulder in this time, and he stood up a little taller.

Half of him was terrified to answer her. The other half was quite confident whatever negative reaction she had was perfectly fightable.

“A watcher.” Goggles repeated, “I don’t know what it is - but I hear it’s something worse than a warden?”

“Don’t speak about them.” Mitsuami cautioned, “That makes them come - they manipulate time to make it all wrong, they warp reality, make all sorts of mischief, using life and death like toys - the last thing i want is to get my buddy in more danger!”

The words almost hurt in a way - Goggles surely didn’t want to do any of that. At least, he thinks he doesn’t?

“Oh.” Goggles murmured, “So like… do they cause nightmares?” 

“They do, if you’ve been involved in their games, sometimes your conscience is sensitive to them - it’s strange, but it’s more than the elder’s whispers, I assure you!! People throughout all of time have been affected!” Mitsuami explained, hugging lil’ buddy tightly. “Plucked straight from their beds and timelines with countless others, to appear somewhere far, far away, found among corpses of the innocents they were pitted against, eyes and body dripping with this red, cursed energy… sorry if i’m scaring you.”

Goggles was silent for a bit. “I… Uh… Uhh…” Goggles stammered.

“Oh- geez- are you ok? I really did go overboard, huh? I’m sorry!” Mitsuami apologized. She handed over the hat, perfectly finished, “Th-This is done!”

Goggles quietly takes it, smiling at her gently. “Don’t be. It’s just… what you described sounds a bit like what i’m going through… but with a few more degrees of worseness added in. And no, I’d rather not explain.”

 With this, he walked past her, heading for the docks.

“Y-you survived a death game?!” Mitsuami gasped.

He looked over  his shoulder, seeing the fear in her eyes. Specks of sculk dust shimmered in his eyes. “I think I was in several… but don’t worry. I didn’t survive any of em’. And nobody here’s believing you if you ask about it. So don’t you dare talk to them about it. Got it?”

Hearing no more than fearful squeaks from her, Goggles exited the room, only for his conscience to come flooding back in.

“ Ugh… why did i say that to her?! She’s not even mean to me! She’s not my enemy! What’s wrong with me?!” Goggles thought to himself, smacking his forehead with his palm a couple times.

He barely knew what he was even talking about, between surviving games or not surviving them. Was he referring to the nightmares? He barely could figure out what was going on in them besides terror! And if his Shadow claimed he was a Watcher, why would he be involved in these things himself?! It made no sense!

It felt like his head was full of static. He didn’t know if he wanted to go back in and apologize, or do something else. But at the very least, he had a delivery to make, and the catboy in question was just ahead of him, working on boats with Specs.

“Mask! Mitsuami and I finished your new hat! Check it out!”

Chapter Text

After the lovely, wonderful sleep beneath the wisteria, Aviators and Skull took their time waking up. Through slow yawns, cuddles and kisses, the two rose from their cozy spot, and took in the beauty of the flower fields around them.

“Wow, it’s even prettier in daylight!” Avi commented, peeking out into the gorgeous field of orange, white, and pink blooms, dappled with blue cornflowers closer to their wisteria.

“Mmhm.” Skull agreed, wrapping his arms around Avi’s soft body, “Smells nice, too. What’s for breakfast?” 

Avi giggled at the dragon and replied, “Well, what’s my beloved dragon’s favorite breakfast?”

“Oh no way you brought pancakes.”

“Oh yes way I brought pancakes. Purpura syrup and all.”

“Yessss”

The two took their late morning slow as they cooked and ate, cuddling close together. Eventually, a swan girl had stopped by their little home away from home.

“Uhhh, are you guys gonna leave soon? We have to lace this place with traps.” she asked, adjusting the red shades on her head.

“Oh. We can leave quickly.” Skull replied, “eh… why are you lacing the place with traps?”

“Nobody’s gonna be home, so pillagers and whatnot are gonna get golems and lava.” the girl replied with a devious smile. “Fave part of the tradition, personally~”

With this, she spreads her wings. “You got about ten minutes before I reach your spot!” she calls, before taking off towards her own little base.

“Welp, nice of them to give a warning…” Avi sighed gently, picking up speed in eating his food, “Too bad we couldn’t stick around! We gotta thank that Army fella later.”

Skull nodded in agreement, no longer trying to savor the pancakes slowly - down the hatch they went. “Still, that was a good breakfast. Thanks, Avi.”

With this, Skull transforms once more, leaning down to let Avi onto his back. The two take to the skies, petals billowing in the breeze left behind. 

The two have a long time flying, catching up, playing a bit of eye- spy, and generally having a pleasant time together. Even if conversation melted to nothing, being in each other’s presence was more than comforting enough.

As skull looked down at the waves, rippling and shimmering as he passed, something caught his eye.

It was like a small spark of magic at first. It glimmered faintly, almost a mirage - but a string appeared once more. The thread was fraying, and almost glitching by the way it looked - broken and cut up and impossibly bright with color, yet still leading to somewhere. Someone , he was certain, he had to meet - and perhaps rescue from the brink of a deadly fate, he worried.

“Something’s up.” Skull warned Avi, “I’m gonna follow my intuition on this - just help me keep an ear out for trouble.”

“Gotcha!” Avi replied, carefully scanning the area himself.

The line of thread, Skull saw as he followed, slowly but surely began to stabilize - though it was still somewhat frayed. Reaching a claw out to touch the thread, Skull gave it the gentlest tug; indeed, it had something at the end of it. 

Focusing on the line, Skull felt these strange impressions - the fear the individual once felt, their uncertainty, yet loyalty in those they promised to follow. As for Skull’s own emotions, he felt almost protective of what was at the other end - almost like it was family.

The line was beginning to distabilize again. It was a battle of gentle tugs, careful manipulation of magic, and a few scary moments where it almost disappeared - but finally, a small island was coming up in the distance. 

“Oh, yep, I see somethin’! Maybe someone??” Avi called out.

Speeding up a bit, Skull flew down for the island’s shore, the thread swiftly connecting up.

At the other end was a younger fellow than the two, unrecognized yet strangely familiar.

They appeared to be a sort of hybrid - their skin a pale purple, cut apart with scars old and new. Their hair was split down the middle in color, framing their face in a bob - the left hand side bright pink, the right hand side a curly, deep purple. Beyond fingers webbed and clawed, they had a large shark tail, sharp teeth, A darkish red tattoo of tendrils covering the left side of their face, neck, and shoulder. Their cloak, the colors of a black and cyan and reminiscent of a paradise bird, while the rest of them at the waist was covered by a shoddily crafted, on-its-last-legs pair of shorts, a spot even torn up nearly to the hip and holding on by sheer will and a dream. It seemed it was a rough landing on this island.

It also seemed they were cradling a book of sorts, the cover overgrown with a strange tube coral, shimmering faintly in a rainbow of colors. 

Quick as he could, Aviators hops off of Skull’s back while the dragon transformed back to a humanoid, pulling a healing potion from his pack, crouching down, and carefully lifting the creature to feed it to them. It seemed even Avi wasn’t quite sure what spurred him on to act so quickly, beyond general kindness.

As the werewolf took hold of the unconscious hybrid, suddenly, the glitching string had stabilized almost immediately. The string was now pale blue, shimmering faintly in an array of colors, like a sunny, rippling wave. Skull had the urge to check his book. There on the page, his shadow had replied in similar sentiments.

“I don’t know why - but he must be part of our court. The book carries something larger than us all - New shadow? Not a shadow? I cannot tell. I don’t have enough power to see what it is :(“ 

“How are their vitals?” Skull asked anxiously, snapping the book shut.

“It was rough for a sec - but nothing a good ol’ health potion couldn’t fix.” Avi replied.

After a few moments, now, the hybrid began to stir. They muttered something softly in a strange language - one that Skull never, ever heard before.

They open their eyes - light green sclera, yellow iris, and mismatched pupils - one pink, the other blue.

“Oh.” the hybrid spoke, glancing between the two. “Uh… Hello. What… happened?”

“Your guess is as good as ours…” Avi replied, “Do you know your name?”

For a moment, while he stood himself up, the hybrid thought. “Forage!” he replied, “I am good at that. That’s my name. I lived on an island… just not this one.”

“Oh. Did you get washed up here?” Skull asked.

“I think.” Forage replied, touching the tattooed side of his face. “It does not make much sense, though - I am usually a very, very good swimmer. Like… like He was. Perhaps I was meant to leave…”

Avi and Skull looked at each other - in that moment, the two of them had the same thought.

“Would you want to come with us?” Skull asked, and Avi continued, “We’re headed to a place with plenty of food, and we can split what we’ve got with ya.”

For a moment, the hybrid seemed to think. Looking between the two for some time, until a strange grin formed. “I would like that. But um… do you have spare hide? I need to patch clothes.” 

“I have some!” Avi said, tossing Forage some leather, “No need to pay, kid.”

“Ah, thank you.” Forage said with a grin, and then proceeded to work on his shorts. Hole fixed shoddily, and with the rest used to make a rough, scrappy cover over his chest, Forage joined the two on their adventure.

They flew for some time, and Forage kept careful eyes on the waves…

Chapter Text

"So… why will you not be coming to the party?" Wes asked Vintage, indifferent but curious.

The two had been hanging out in the ice cave the Endcrystal dragon was remodeling, and it was going well - albeit a bit slowly. She was currently in her full dragon form, using claws to carefully carve out intricate details in the ice. Vintage was nursing wounds from another "draw", lounging on the throne of ice that she had just finished.

"Too many people. Not allowed to punch the ones I hate." Vintage replied, inspecting his claws carefully. "We'd be way too late anyways. Too much ground to cover even if we had carts or horses."

"Can't you fly as a dragon of ice?" Wes asked, returning to half-dragon form, looking over various banner ideas she was choosing from.

Things went quiet for a bit. Suspicious, she turned to look, but he was just sitting, looking away. 

"What. Do you melt in the sun or something?" Wes asked, "if you don't correct me, I may simply think you turn into a puddle in jungle heat." 

Vintage sighed. "That’s half true. Also, I… am not a real dragon."

"You aren't?"

"Not at all. I'm a blood demon, hence my ability to shift my form at will. I was born from a war I never wanted, and banished to the cold. Chained in this very room for centuries." 

Wes looked over at him. Not much of a change of expression - but she was the same, quite under expressive.

"You're serious?"

"I am. I was tortured and killed for conspiring with wolves, covenant with monsters, something-something spirit of a devil, the details are foggy, nonetheless an excuse to hurt a kid. But I came back. Started spearing every war-mongering commander in the head with those x-shaped ice spires. Fun times."

"And you're not sick of this place?"

"The fools that chained me here are more than likely all dead. It's quiet and peaceful, save for strays, and I've allied with that bunch in the less extreme tundra. There's nothing I want to change - I'm king here, after all. There's nothing that anyone can do to me." 

"I see." 

Things are quiet for some time, once again. Vintage shifts in the chair he occupies, a book with a magnifying glass attached to the spine pulled from his bag - the cover ornate and glistening, like angel quartz dyed by sky blue. Instead of turning the glass to the pages, he raises it to one of his blood-red eyes, looking out to the distance. 

He hums a soft, low note, then stands, magic sigils appearing over his wounds and turning back time on flesh. He walks toward the mouth of the cave, his body beginning to ice over, forming claws and wings.

"Besides. Annoying intruders visit me all the time. There's no safety here without me to crush these bugs."

Vin takes off, and for a moment, Wes considers leaving him be to handle whatever was going on himself. She knew he was just going to attack without restraint, catching her in any crossfires he made. 

But… then again, she wanted to test the intruders. Maybe they'd make good subjects if they were simply lost and powerful.

Wes followed Vintage as he flew over the snowy tundra, somewhat behind so as to not disturb him. Soon, what showed up within the hills of the tundra were what seemed to be a pack of wolves at first glance - but shredded clothes and wild eyes had given away their true ferality. It was a small pack, a measly 4, but the leader seemed at least slightly formidable. Surely it wouldn’t be an issue for Vintage.

Vintage lands in front of the wolves, pausing the four in their run. “State your intentions.” he spoke simply, baring his claws.

“Straight to the point, eh? I like that.” the lead wolf replied, adjusting her bumpy glasses with her paw, “The scent of prey led us into your territory. Allow us to catch that weak little cod, and better yet that firefly, and you’re free to walk. Time is of the essence!”

Vintage stared at them. “Are you stupid?”

The simple line enraged the pack.

“What the hell, man?!”

“We smell what we smell!!”

The leader angrily scratched at the ground, growling, “Shut the fuck up! We know fireflies and cod don’t naturally occur here! OBVIOUSLY! We’re looking for two hybrids that wandered in here! Hurry up and COUGH THEM UP!”

“No, I understood. Take a look around, it hasn’t actively snowed in two weeks. Do you see tracks?” Vintage pointed out, eyes narrowing, “No traces of halfling footprints, and the only abnormal scents I smell are those of your overworked and under washed subordinates. Or is that all you? Not even a roll in the snow to your name? No wonder all of you overlooked it. What slackers…”

The insults make the wolf leader angry as hell - and with a flip, she unsheathes the giant greatsword from her back, grasping it in her jaws. “THAT’S IT YOU’RE GOING DOWN!!” 

Claws of ice and the sword clash, commencing the fight. Nobody takes turns, each eager to take a bite out of the enemy Vintage has made of himself.

and with ease, alone, Vintage takes on the four… for the mostpart. Starting to worry that the numbers may eventually wear vintage down, Wes quickly decided to fly off and fetch his friends, just in case.

So thus, Vintage continued the fight he started, using his ice liberally against his targets, slashing tendons and freezing blood as it fell to the snow - but the leader wouldn’t be felled so easily. 

“If you leave now, I won’t stop you.” Vintage warned, clashing once again against her blade. 

“Worried you’ll lose, slacker?! I’m just getting warmed up!!” the wolf growled, charging magic through her blade, newly alight with her own ice, the spikes successfully staggering Vintage.

She only got a few hits in, for only a moment - but Vintage quickly retaliated with his own, shards of ice appearing to rain down on the wolf and her crew. “As if.”

The spears of ice connect, some with her blade, some to her body - but it only serves to anger her more, lighting fire in her blood. She dashes forward against it, switching to her human form to minimize damage as she rushes in, blade raised, charging once again with magic now fueled with a burning, fiery rage.

The bite of ice and pure energy of fire - the wielding of these were her secret to her victories, and it wouldn’t fail her now!

“EAT THIS, JERK!!!!” she snarled, hitting him with a nasty slashing of her sword. 

The ice Vintage piled in the way stopped it a little at first, and he tried to back off. “Wait-”

“WHAT’S THE MATTER, HUH?!” she screamed, “AFRAID OF LOSIN’ A FIGHT TO A WOLF, SLACKER?! BETTER USE THAT SNOW FOR YOURSELF AFTER THIS!!”

Ice and steam cloud her glasses, but she feels the blade and the fire it carried connect. Ah, finally, a good blow!

But… something looked wrong. 

The fire she hit with, it suddenly, violently spread on her opponent - the fire burning a ghastly, magical black on the demon before her. 

No matter how fast she reacted to dial it in, cancel the spell - the fire continued to burn him away. 

“SHIT!”

“VINTAGE!!”

“‘MEGA, CAST A BLIZZARD! HURRY!!”

A trio of ice demons appeared, almost dropping from the sky - no, dropping from the back of a silver-black dragon. With a wave of her staff, omega summoned a fierce blizzard concentrated above vintage, dimming the blackfire flame dramatically. The larger ice demon, Double, grabbed tight to Vintage and shoved him into the snow, working hard to snuff out the flames, panickedly shoveling snow and muttering panicked swears. The snow imp that stepped up, Red, had scooped a bucket of powdered snow, funneling her own weak energy into the bucket of the snow inhabiting it, intent on keeping the wolf at bay.

“WHY?!” Red screamed at her, baring fangs and barraging the wolf with magic snowballs, “WHY’D YOU DO THAT?! WHAT’S WRONG WITH YOU! I’LL KILL YOU!”

8-Bit, understandably, was shaken - she thought this would be a simple fight, and certainly had no intent to kill. She had been angry, yes, but she had ample control of her flame, unlike most elementals she knew. She didn’t even put out enough to burn this severely.

“I- I didn’t want this! I didn’t mean to do that to him!” 8-bit explained, flinching against the snow, but letting it hit nonetheless. “We were just - settling - I - I didn’t know he’d do THAT!”

Red grabbed her by the wrecked shirt collar, screaming, “WELL TAKE A GOOD LOOK! ALL OF YOU! AND NEVER BRING YOUR STUPID FIRE HERE AGAIN!!”

Wes flew overhead, passively amplifying the storm’s effects, watching worriedly as the fire was thankfully snuffed out.

Wes had thought his healing magic looked strange. It wasn’t healing at all.

Every bit of him was cloaked in a snowy illusion - now melted by fire.

Vintage’s true body was sickeningly frail - almost worse than the strays that wandered at night, but just barely with a bit more meat. But chunks of Vintage’s body - bones, a handful of guts, skin, even a few limbs, fingers and the like, were replaced by Ice replicas. the ice, though, certainly not the problem - simply a frail fix.

A late-stage curse of withering. 

Wes had only read stories of such a horrible curse, the cure only known to Death, a child of Mothera. 

It was an absolute miracle that Vintage was still alive after that. It was no wonder that the denizens of this place only used soul flames and redstone lamps; even regular torches were a dangerous liability.

Wes flew down, shrinking down to human form. She could see even from way up high, the ice heart in his chest hadn’t reformed quite right. 

Double turned on her, growling, “Back off!”

“I’m trying to help. He won’t be able to get back up without an adjustment to that heart.” Wes explained.

That explained, Double let her come closer. She crouched down, summoning her magic into a hand as she carefully reached into his chest, careful not to scrape the sides. She grasped his heart as gently as she could manage, closing her eyes as she concentrated. 

She ran through book after book in her imprisonment. She knew well the shape of a healthy heart in all its forms, from mouse, to warden, to dragon. Though a dragon’s she could picture clearest, piercing one herself.

Wes carefully constructed the heart, sized to his current proportions. She then imbued it with the properties of end crystal - strong, yet more malleable than mere ice, able to pump blood more efficiently than artificial ice regularly would. More than that, it would blend with his natural magic, strengthening it greatly and helping to slow the curse a bit more, theoretically. 

Of course, of course, she’d fear losing her sparring partner. It was no fair to be done in by that sudden blaze. So why not make sure it couldn’t happen so easily as well? Just a little of her own strength should do - to give him a chance to retreat next time.

As carefully as she went in, she pulled her hand away after her adjustment was done. “There. He should fare better now.” Wes said, watching carefully to make sure he was well.

After some moments, Vintage began to breathe once again. The window in his chest closed over with ice as he slowly opened his eyes, struggling to lift himself on his elbows as he glanced at himself, quickly repairing himself with ice as he gasped for breath.

“Easy, Vin. don’t strain yourself.” Omega said, calming as she let her focus on the storm leave her.

“Ugh… what… did that dragon… do…” Vintage muttered, shuddering slightly.

“What I had to do,” Wes replied, “It may take a while for my magic to attune to yours, but it should fortify you in the end. Anyways. What do you want for now? I suggest rest, but punishing the wolves for attempted murder is also on the table.”

Vintage seemed to think for a moment, before he closed his eyes. “Punishment isn’t necessary. So long as they know I meant it when I said their targets aren’t here. I want my couch.” 

With that last thought, he raised his arms - hands still in the process of forming back.

Double moved forward to grab him, but Wes was already close enough, and scooped up the smaller creature herself. His true weight, free from illusions and the majority of his ice - it was like carrying an empty bag. A sharp feeling in her stomach made itself known. The familiarity of bitterness.

“I’m shocked you didn’t tell me you crossed Death sooner.” Wes said, watching the other monsters form a shield around her and Vintage, watchful eyes on the still-stunned wolves.

“I never did. That dirty hack of a red dragon can’t stand to lose a fight.” Vintage replied softly, shielding his eyes with an arm, “He pulled this shit, and his army locked me in the ice to die like cowards.”

Wes sprouts her wings, taking flight. “I see why my brother distrusts that monster, then.”

The wind whistles by, snowflakes carried on the draft. The quiet drifting worried her, now that her sparring partner had been so injured, so she glanced back down at him.

Behind the frail, half-ice harm, she swore she caught the slight sheen of tears frozen to cheeks.

“...Pathetic, isn’t it.” Vintage muttered softly, tone muffled by the shreds of his jacket, “A once all-powerful demon reduced to ash by a single, weak fireball. So pathetic you could laugh, couldn’t you.”

“I don’t see how.” Wes said, readjusting her grip. “I’m not one to laugh at misfortune you didn’t deserve. Anyhow, What does your book collection look like?”

The quiet rumble of a hum comes from her cargo. “I think… Omega has a lot. What, want to find a good side for what that wolf girl toasted off of me?”

“Nope.” Wes replied, “I take tonight only to peruse the collection. Tomorrow morning for theorizing. If no dice, I hunt a dragon and beat the shit out of it for answers.”

“... you’re kidding.”

“No. I’m not that cruel.”

“Why? We only just met… weeks ago.”

“Well It’s because I’m pissed off for one. That, and nobody deserves to suffer a curse like that. I’ll even bite that demigod to death if it gets me an answer… maybe kill them both after, so nobody wither-curses anyone else.” 

She didn’t really care of what he thought about that, either - she was angry, and completely sincere in her words. She didn’t believe this curse was true; it was too cruel to believe. and seeing it firsthand made her too angry to describe.

Not her sparring partner.

Not the first person she made friends with after being freed.

“You shouldn’t. Even if Death is the dick that started it, you’ll get smited by Mothera for taking a bite from her kid.” Vintage said.

“What makes you think I care about what she wants? Making a hellspawn is on her. I’ll bite her too.”

“But-”

“Take a nap, Vin. We’re not debating, and rest better suits you right now.”

Finally, the cabin is in sight. She brings him in, scaring the elytrian back to her room with a glance, and gently laying  Vintage down on his couch, covering him with the blanket he leant her. As she did, Vin’s friends finally caught up. She leaves them to worry over him for her, and takes it upon herself to find some books. With the strength of fast reading behind her,  she makes it through about three before there’s a knock at the cabin door.

A collective of growls come from the couch before Vintage speaks over them, “Stop that. Wes, deal with it. Please…”

She hums an affirmative, and moves for the door, opening it a crack.

There beyond the door was 8-bit and her pack. In her hands was… a crate. Several crates of drinks. Glass bottled sodas, it looked like…?

Wes squinted. “Where did you…?”

“It doesn’t matter!!” 8-bit interjected, practically barking, “We didn’t intend any harm to the demon bastard! These drinks lift energy no matter what, so just take them! An olive branch from the wolf division of the red dragon army!”

Wes glanced to those indoors - none of them overheard that declaration, it seems. Quietly, Wes stepped outside, closing the door gently behind her before leaning against it.

“...And what makes you think this is remotely enough?” Wes asked, voice calm, cold, “You’ve almost killed a king… a piece of my horde, more importantly. and you know  what a horde is to a dragon, don’t you?”

“...Y-yes ma’am.” 8-Bit answered shakily, “But then how do I make it up?! I can’t exactly stitch a curse up!”

“Vintage may claim to be indifferent to territory disputes. I think differently. You who conspired with the red dragon are deserving of punishment… but there is a way less harrowing one than setting your hearts on literal fire.” Wes explains, making sure she appeared tall and intimidating over the squad of wolves.

“Okay! Then tell us what we can do! Quickly - ah- preferably!” the wolf answered, visibly intimidated.

“You are to cut contact with the army you hail from. As far as they will know, you vanished in the tundra without a trace. I will use my… contacts, to spread a rumor that you were swallowed whole by a monster that resides in this place.” she explained.

“B-but then… What are we supposed to do?! Where will we go?!” 8-Bit asked.

“You’ll integrate here, of course - set yourselves up some settlements, carving steps up to my abode as you do. Work off your debts. and promise me, no matter what - you will never engage in battles outside monitored sparring tournaments. Your killings will be for sustenance only. Are we all clear?”

“Yes ma’am!” the group of wolves reply in earnest, and assume human forms shifting through the large packs they carried on their backs. 

“Permission to set up camp for now?” 8-bit asked.

“Of course. Just set up near my mountain.” Wes answered.

With that, she watched the pack run off, tents and supplies at the ready. She heads back inside, a satisfied smile briefly appearing before she remembered the bookish commitment she was to fulfill tonight.

Chapter Text

Through about two days of non-stop sailing in the parade of small boats, Goggles and his friends are getting a bit tired of the endless monotony of the sea. Spirits were high at the beginning, stories and jokes shared while headphones and rider would scout ahead for any enemies, by the third day, everyone's conversation and energy had run a bit dry. 

"Guys, I'm gonna scout ahead again!" Headphones reported, "I'll catch some food and see if there's any land to camp on for the comin' night. Hang tight, alright?"

"Okay!" Goggles called back, "im gonna nap…." 

"Riiight behind ya. As fun as the fest is, gettin there can be a drag…" Mask sighed, pulling the hat they haven't taken off over their eyes for a moment. 

Goggles struggled to get cozy for a few minutes, trying this way and that with his blankets and pillow. Eventually, Hachi spotted his struggle, tethered their boats together and scooted into his.

"Use my lap - cushion the rest of your body with the pillows. It should be a little cozier." Hachi suggested, smiling brightly as he took the oars.

"Oh! Are you sure?? Thanks!" Goggles replied, and adjusted accordingly.

Ah, much cozier indeed! Goggles snuggled in happily, and napped in the warm sunlight.

…

Another dream of the void. 

Goggles blinked slowly, glancing around, body heavy on a floor he didn't see. He slowly pulled himself up, ears attuned to a distant shout.  

As he squinted through the void, wandering towards the sound,  a scene of sorts slowly came into view. 

There was a strange, shark-like creature, dragging someone under the cover of a bush.

From within himself, shadow goggles explained, "That’s the halfling. Half shark, half tiefling… remember his face."

"Get up… please, get up!" The halfling pleaded with the ally they dragged into the bush, "I can't- they broke my staff, the octopus fell silent weeks ago, i don't have energy left to heal you!"

The warrior, a fairy-like girl, pressed a war-torn blade into his hands. "Forage, listen to me. I'll do what i can to hold them off and recover the others - you're hurt enough. Just run away as fast as you can. Swim if you have to! You have to leave!"

Forage, hands shaking, gripped the sword too big for his stature, depositing his broken staff by the girl. Shouts in the distance point out his position, and he turns to run. With a wave of his hand, the last of his magic grows grass and flowers to cover his path. 

The boy is chased to a cliff, sharp rocks and rolling waves far below.  His enemies, torches, weapons and magic pointed his way, close in close with wicked grins. 

A particular enemy parts from the crowd - a black book bound to his side. His eyes were like those of goggles' shadow, but the rest of the body its usual colors; red hair, dark robes, adorned in gold and other pricey gems and trinkets upon large red wings. This enemy's weapons were dyed in blood - some matching Forage's wounds, but most of it seemed to be from the warrior goggles saw before.

If he stared too hard, goggles could pick out evidence of 4 victims, Forage included. 

The monster smiled serenely at its prey. "You poor, poor thing. It's truly a shame you sided with that foolish institute, trying to keep those books from me. All your hard work, just for it all to get burned down… or well, not all of it. I know you still have two, don't you?"

Forage didn't hide his flinch, nor his tears. "Do not talk to me like I'm a fool. I know what you are, and i am not talking of the poor soul you've taken over!"

The enemy steps forward. Forage steps back. His shaking legs were doing their best to find footing on the small platform.

"Oh, do you? So surprising. It's too bad he won't hear you calling, even if you know his name. What you have truly is useless. Why don't you give it to me? That way I won't have to add to his sins by swallowing you whole in our true form." 

A fresh stream of tears fell from Forage's eyes. His hands trembling, he reached down to his bag, where at the bottom three books lie. A plain, blank book, A book titled only by illustrations of dragons, and the one he pulled - a void dark book, speckled by eyes as numerous and varying as stars. 

On Forage's side, a note had been carefully placed, just out of the monster's line of sight. His eyes read as fast as they could a few times, over and over. 

The enemy steps forward, reaching for the book.

Forage, sword in tail, swiped across the monster's chest, knocking the man back.

Then, he began to recite the text he memorized, letting the book drop back into his satchel.

"O dear lost maiden hear my prayers to you-"

The dragon snarls. Claws clash against the sword.

"She who waits between worlds born of light and darkness-!"

Forage is shoved to the edge, claws digging into his abdomen. His body reacts without thought, burning the claws that invade. He continues to recite, voice breaking in his agony. Unknown to both fighters, the book he just had was beginning to dim - light around it pulled forward.

"I beg of you to bestow a strength vast beyond these dragons and in turn-!"

Forage is shoved off the cliff. He sees droplets of his black blood lagging behind his descent. The blank notebook, too, had fallen from the bag.

"I OFFER YOU THE SHOW AND WISDOM YOU SEEK!"

In that moment, the waves rose to meet him in his descent. the spout ascended high beyond the cliff. The notebook warped and changed, then released void black tendrils, covering the form of the halfling. Mutating it. 

Legs abandoned for seven large, thick purple tentacles, each tipped with the torso and head of a shark. Sawtooth, hammerhead, mako, goblin - a wide array of variants, each bloody and starving for the blood of prey. Forage's hair became tentacles as well, growing out and framing his face, now grown over with a bleached coral mask, only allowing his eyes to see. Even fins grew around ears and arms, optimal for water combat.

The scylla Forage became let out a discordant screech. The sky clouded instantly, waves picking up,  bleached coral crawling up the sheer cliff in violent bursts. 

The monsters lock eyes.

The red dragon, captured by their gaze, a burning in the back of his head, clutches it in pain.

His troops surround him, weapons pointed to defend.

Where Forage once desperately sought to see the misguided, afraid, possessed - he now only saw a heartless mob that took away all his friends. His only family.

 A heartless feast.

"DROWN! ALL OF YOU!"

The battle clashed on. Goggles watched, sympathizing with his pain. He reached out, as if wanting to comfort the poor druid pushed to their limit. 

"Don't feel too sorry." Shadow goggles spoke once again, now quietly sitting next to goggles as they watched the carnage, "I think… This is a forgotten memory. Just like ours had been put away… or well, yours was." 

"... what are we supposed to do with this?" Goggles asked, "is this… a part of the whole…. Watcher thing?"

"I'm not sure myself. I'm not really focused on what's outside of the other shadows finding us again… but maybe we'll also find Forage, wherever he's gone. and whether or not we give these back, or how… I really don't know. I just want to see my friends again before something like that happens."

The mob of warriors in the memory is gone - the red dragon faces off against the scylla, and a war of lightning storms and whirlpools breaks out between them, earth-shaking roars against sky-piercing shrieks.  

Slowly, Forage's transformation is beginning to become undone. Shark heads torn from his body, but not without tearing chunks from the dragon himself. Sky and sea are indistinguishable… Forage pins the dragon against the rocky cliffside, corals digging into its back as the dragon’s monster form gives way first. 

For a moment, Goggles can almost pick out the scylla's thoughts. The desire for revenge, questions unanswered, a deep abyss of why, and how dare you. But most of all… pain. Despair. The fear of now being cursed to be well and truly alone.

At least, he could end what started it right now.

But the man in his arms, coming back to consciousness - the eyes changed. Instead of that electric, empty yellow, there was red with yellow-orange. 

Even to Forage, he was clearly confused. Clearly in pain. Disoriented. And now, panic began to set in, shaking breaths and charged tears.

"Fuck, god- make it stop-" that once sweetly cruel voice, now edged with pain and fear, "Oh, gods, whhaat did he do?! I-i can't change- I-"

Forage stares. The sea and skies swell. He won't let go, no matter how many times lightning strikes, weaker and weaker with each attempt. Seawater tears fall from the scylla's eyes, mixing with blood. 

"Give me…… one. Good. Reason." Forage growled, echoes bouncing across the depths, "Why should I not pull your scales out, as slowly and painfully as I can?"

"What did I do?!" The dragon cried, "I- please- tell me what i did first!"

"What did you do? WHAT? DID? YOU? DO???" Forage hissed, "YOU'VE HUNTED DOWN MY FRIENDS AND I, SLAUGHTERING THEM ONE BY ONE, SIMPLY BECAUSE WE DARED TO PROTECT THE KNOWLEDGE YOU WANTED BURNT! ALL BECAUSE OF THE SECRETS IT HELD WERE JUST OH, SOO IMPORTANT TO YOU! ALL BECAUSE YOU DID NOT WANT ANY OTHER SOUPED UP LIZARD POTENTIALLY FINDING IT! YOU DESTROYED EVERYTHING I HAD!!! ARI, OLI, HARMONY, JESSEBELLE, EVEN LEA!! MY FAMILY IS FUCKING GONE!! DO YOU NOT UNDERSTAND WHAT YOU'VE DONE TO ME?!"

The dragon’s eyes widened in shock and horror. Even from the distance goggles watched, he understood perfectly - this version of the dragon had no idea the amount of blood that stained his hands. 

The waves separate from the sky, receding fast.

"N-no way…" the dragon's voice wavered, "I-I- there's no way- I-it promised me it wouldn't- owowowowow stop stop stop!!!"

"Did you forget?" Forage growled, squeezing tightly, tendril hair forcing the dragon to look him in the eye, "I wanted a REASON. WHY HAVE YOU DONE THIS?! WHY DO YOU NOT DESERVE THE VERY SAME AGONY AS ATONEMENT?!" 

"I DON'T KNOW!" the dragon cried out, "I DON'T KNOW WHAT THE FUCK I DID! PLEASE DON'T! JUST LET ME GO!! I SWEAR I'LL THINK OF SOMETHING-!"

Forage let free a griefful, terrible sound, raising a clawed hand to strike. 

Before he could, a wave taller than a mountain bombarded them both. The force tore the boy from Forage's hands, and as he tried to reach back to grab his prey, he was suddenly encompassed by enormous tentacles - much bigger than he ever was or will be, but familiar to him all the same. The skin on them was losing its pigment, now washed out more than the shimmering, dark colors, but they still held him gently as ever. 

Above, he watched as the enemy he tried to kill was caught - this time, by a large, sea-monster-like dragon, fins and scales a shimmering gold-pink. The water dyed with xer aura soothed Forage's pain, healing his wounds. 

"Oh, Forage… my poor son… what strange magic has befallen you…?" the soft, deep rumbles of his guardian had calmed the rage in his hearts, allowing it to finally boil down. "I am at least glad we could make it to you in time. I am so sorry I could not make it sooner…" 

Forage curled into the tendrils, hugging one as tightly as he could.  The notebook now coated in coral, caught within the satchel saved within a bubble, begins to shimmer, pulsing slightly. 

"Octopus…" Forage wept softly into their tentacle, "The family I made… everyone is gone, and I know even you do not have much time! I thought I would have someone, anyone to stand by me once you've left this world… but now…!"  

"I know. It is painful for you, this loss. But even if it were at that dragon’s hands, he knows not what he does. Something sinister has possessed him, perverting even his purest desires." The Octopus explained.

The octopus raises him a bit higher to see, the magic pulling away Forage's monster look back to it's pages. On the beach, the sea dragon took to xer half human form, laying xer hands over the weakened monster's wounds. The black book the dragon once carried is a few feet down the beach, bobbing in the tide. Slowly, the black book was shifting - the black on the cover gliding out, shifting it along like a sea star shambles across a reef, slowly making its way towards the two.

"It's like… what happened to Lea, once." Forage mumbled softly, "she was lucky that the moon goddess had saved her…"

"Correct. And it's much more complex than the possession she once faced." The Octopus explained, gently petting back his hair to keep him calm. "This monster within was born from a deep pain - a loss of a family he struggles to recall as his very shadow feasts on his mind. It is a constant battle against himself to stay present, for if he falls too far asleep… the shadow will be all that remains. His very soul is in jeopardy of being consumed."

Over on the beach, the red dragon asked, "Why… why are you healing me? I don't… deserve this. I screwed up so badly, Prince…" 

"Well, I feel it's the right thing to do. I don't really know why, but the moment I saw you, about to die to His son, something in my brain clicked. So I had to help both of you." Prince glanced down, a confused look passing over xyr serene face. "But now that I've got a good look… I wonder. Who… are you? You look just like me, save for the eyes." 

"You still can't remember, huh?" The red dragon sighed. "Then I guess it isn't  important… just stay away for your own sake, Prince. I screwed up…"

Still confused, Prince continues to heal. "You say that, but I don't need the Octopus's eyes to know something’s bothering you. Can't you at least give me a name to call you by?"

"... Regent." The dragon replied, "it's Regent.  I'm truly shocked you're just… healing your enemy like this." 

"Regent." Prince hummed, ear fins twitching thoughtfully. "Why is that…. Familiar? Forgive me if we've met. There's this… wall, ever since I've come to rule the sea. I can't remember what I was doing before all this, it took me years just to recall my own brother… Did you know me? Did I… know you?"

Regent was still. As he looked at xem, he seemed… tired. Hurt. 

The book was closing in.

"I… did, didn't I…?" Prince muttered softly.

Forage tried to charge up some magic, prepared to aim at the book, but a tendril gently grabbed and lowered his hand. 

"That’s only going to kill the dragon." The Octopus explained. "The shadow within that book is a dark piece of Regent - a regret, memory, or true feeling that he has yet to accept, split away and left to fester. Despite the vast difference in intention and demeanor, they still hold a link. Kill the shadow or destroy its book, and you'll easily kill who it belongs to."  

At this, Goggles looked to his own shadow. the shadow smiles at him.

"What?" He asked.

"So if one of us dies we both die?" Goggles asked.

"Yep. Sorry if you had any plans to kill me or something~"

"Nono! I didn't! But um… why do you exist…?

"Oh, good question. I was originally with you because you stuffed away a looooot of boredom… oh, hold on. I'll tell you later, keep watching."

They turn their attention back to the scene before them. The black book had lunged up, and Regent blocked it from Prince. In the fray, the book latches on, and before anyone can say a word more, he sprouts his wings and flies off as fast as he can manage.

Forage watched him go, fatigue beginning to catch up. As he wilted forward, The Octopus caught him.

"It's no use…" Forage murmured, "as sad as I feel for him, I still… I still want to hurt him."

"I understand. But it is best not to fight him head on again. Though… now, as you have taken up the role of a watcher, despite my best efforts not to have you as my successor. And the powers this grants you… well, perhaps you'll be able to safely take frustrations out on him, all without his knowing. It is hard to explain, but you will certainly achieve revenge." The octopus said.

"I see." Forage says. "Still… i… what will i do…? You're fading by the day… who will I have left?"

"Ah…. If I may." Prince spoke up, standing at the edge of the shore, "if you want… I have a spell that may be of interest. Though it requires that the Octopus leaves behind his mortal body, his soul may be tethered to yours. Those that have had this spell done have often enjoyed dreams in which they communicate with the deceased they've established the tether to. It's the least I can do, knowing the losses you've suffered so far."

Forage glances over. "Maybe… can that be done with my other friends' souls, too?"

"If it's not too late, I'll try. But i wouldn't be too hopeful…"

"I see… that's okay." Forage said, looking down. "Oh… right. King Prince, i managed to save these books from the burning… arc…hives…"

As Forage began to grab his satchel, another wave of exhaust hit him. Out like a light, he now floated face first in the water, gills keeping him from drowning.

"It seems his adrenaline ran dry. I will retrieve the books." The Octopus said.

"Thanks. But… are you really sure you want to… Lie like this to Forage? Your soul will make him stronger, and he's less likely to die even outside of whatever that monster was, but…  your soul will not survive." Prince said, tentatively accepting the book of dragons and the eye-covered tome. 

"I am absolutely certain. I've served long enough as this world's oldest voyeur. And especially if the mistress of the void wishes to force this fate upon my child, I wish to make the process comfortable for him. Even if it's just a few powers and a lie to sweeten this departure, the effect of it will certainly cause him to dream like it were true." The octopus replied.

"You're much too kind. It makes me wish I could remember my parents, haha…" 

"...it is best if you do not. Now, if you please… I am ready to cast away this aching shell."

"Of course, sir. Please, get comfortable… I'll miss you." 

With this, the mass of tentacles slowly brought the sleeping Forage to shore, closing around and beside. Even the heft of his vast body could barely make it on the shores, water no longer buffering the weight of gravity around him. Prince raised xyr hand, a pure white light tinting pink at the edges, then drifting off as xey muttered incantations.

The mass that was the octopus was slowly engulfed, then broken into bits of light. Bit by bit, like a glowing rain, the pieces of energy sunk into Forage's skin. A tattoo, depicting familiar tentacles, had spread along Forage's body, a sign that their powers had become one. 

There alone, Forage lay on the sand. Prince crouched down, then carefully, gently petting his head.

"I'm deeply, truly sorry, Forage. But please know this - even if this tragedy hurts, you'll still find hope again. Love, friendship, and family; you'll get it back. That's a promise." 

With this, Prince stepped into the sea, returning to xyr dragon form. "I'll stay with you a little longer. Just until someone comes along to grab you. He told me there would be."

At this, the vision ends. The two watchers are left alone in the void. 

"So… Forage, huh. He's like us? A watcher?" Goggles asked.

"Guess so. We must’ve picked up his lost memory for some reason, just can't tell why yet. Maybe they want us to be friends, hah." His shadow replied.

"Maybe! I do like making those." Goggles said, "but I hope he's okay. Um, by the way - back to why you exist, besides the dysphoria I've been kicking the shit out of i don't see why you're real…" 

"Right, right! Let me tell you. Have you ever thought about how much you hate it when someone insults our smarts? Just think about this…"

Chapter Text

Back out of Goggles’ nap, the seafaring crew had been making slow progress.  Headphones pops up on the side of Bobble’s boat, depositing a catch of salmon in her lap.

“Here’s your share!” Headphones said with a smile, leaning on the boat. “I hope it’s good - I know you guys don’t really enjoy raw fish.” 

“Thank you!” Bobble replied with a smile, and paused her rowing, picking up the fish as  she linked her boat to Specs’ to keep moving forward.

With a practiced swiftness and a bit of magic, Bobble swiftly deboned the fish with one hand, throwing the bones down in her boat before grabbing her bucket of lava. Holding it with her thighs, she slowly cooked the salmon over the heat radiating off of the bucket. All this, of course, Headphones has watched on in awe. 

Once it was cooked to Bobble’s liking, she split the cooked salmon and offered the half to headphones. “For you!”

“Oh- are you sure? I-I mean, I will definitely have some, but… are you sure you wanna share?” Headphones asked.

“Mhm!” Bobble replied, and patted the seat beside her, “Take some rest - you’ve swam all day.”

“O-okay.” accepting the offer, Headphones climbed up onto the boat. As she chowed down on her half pretty quickly, she watched as Bobble enjoyed what she caught for her.

Secretly… everyone else got cod. She hoped nobody would notice that she was saving the juicier stuff for Bobble. It’s just, with all her work in keeping everyone safe and happy… Headphones felt Bobble deserved more to eat. And… she sort of felt the weirdest need to protect her, even if she could certainly protect herself.

“So. how do you feel being out in the waves again?” Bobble asked.

Shoot! Headphones was staring!! She tries to look down at a natural enough speed before her reply.

“It’s kinda weird! Not sticking to just our beach spot…” Headphones replies, “I was kinda shocked there weren't more guardians after us… I guess they retreated to their own spaces, so that’s good.”

“Mm.” Bobble agreed, tilting her head. “Were you swimming alone for a long time? Before you met us.”

“I… think so.” Headphones replied, “It’s hard to remember specifics when you’re just thinking about swimming as fast as you can, and all that… what about you? How did you end up in the overworld in a chest?”

Bobble hummed and said, "I was told to come here, so I did! And then I got cold, so I hid in a wood chest for a bit." 

"Huh. So like… who had you come here? Was there a reason?" Headphones asked.

"Hmmm…. Well… I can say part of it." Bobble said, and leaned back in the boat as she continued, "I'm a lot larger than my siblings. They tended not to like this, So I ended up lonely a lot. So… Mom and the Nether King put me in a program that let me go to the overworld! And I'm not lonely anymore." 

"Oh! Well, I'm glad I keep good company!" Headphones replied with a smile, "I was a bit bullied myself way back when, so I know how it feels to be a bit of an outcast." 

"Why were you?" Bobble asked bluntly, "You're so pretty." 

"I-! U-um, well, thanks!" Headphones stuttered, hiding a blush with her hand, "I uh… well uh… the other mer… let's just say family mattered in terms of status where i lived, annnd…. Well. I didn't have one. So, bottom of the food chain.  That's that. The only friend I had was also an outcast - made me this device for air breathing - but… something dark overtook him one day, and, well… let's just say, the guardians being hostile and murderous to everyone is all his fault."

"I see." Bobble said, then tilted her head. "Did he let you escape? What happened to him?" 

At that question, Headphones paused. She was torn on how to respond - if she should lie, or tell the truth. 

The day still weighs heavy in her mind. The day her so-called best friend revealed that he thought she was delusional. That she'd never get the friends, nor the home, nor the body she wanted. That in his mind, she was always just… bait. Something to blame. Something to use, then toss to his creations when he was done…

Headphones looked up to say something, but once more was caught off guard. Bobble had reached up and caressed her cheeks, gently wiping away tears that she hadn't realized she was crying. 

"It's okay if it's too painful." Bobble said, an air of gentleness to her usual sweet tone, "whether you want to talk some other time about him, write it, or forget about him, that's fine. You're safe with me, whatever you want." 

At this, Headphones simply leaned down and hugged Bobble tightly, resting her head on her shoulder. She didn't mean to cry, but tears kept coming nonetheless. 

"Thank you…" Headphones muttered into Bobble’s shoulder.

"There, there. No problem." Bobble said, gently patting her back. "Why don't you rest here for a bit? You worked so hard, you know? You should rest."

“M-maybe I will…” Headphones replies, and starts to lean on Bobble a bit more. “Do you mind if I lay on you a bit?” 

“Not at all!” Bobble answers with a smile, “Not much else of a place to rest, y’know?”

Headphones gets settled down, and Bobble ties her boat to one of the others so they can keep moving.

…

At a certain point, those still awake reach a stop for the night - a quiet island of tall spruce trees. 

“Torches everyone!” Specs calls out, “Quickly, please!”

“On it!” Hachi and Fierce call out, quickly moving about and spreading torches. 

Mask and the other cats put down some tents and shelters, while Rider and Goggles helped to move around those still sleeping. Mitsuami and Justice make a few quick meals for everyone as well, setting up some smokers and campfires. 

“Want a path to the woods?” Fierce asked, “I’m thinkin’ a fence would be nice to have around our temporary camp.” 

“Ah! Good Idea!” Specs replied, “Um, Hivemind, would you mind flying ahead to scout for trouble?”

“Not at all.” Hive replied, “I’ll be in contact.” 

With this, he flies ahead. Goggles pounces on Specs, swiping the Ax on his belt. “I’ll keep an ear out, to! Let’s chop to it!”

“Easy with that!” Specs said, swiping his ax back with a smile. “You’ve gotta practice with the wooden one I gave you before you graduate to an iron one like this!”

“Aww, darn!” Goggles said, pulling out the one he was given, “It’s almost broken, though!”

“Well once it breaks, I’ll make you a stone one.” Specs replied, and quickly moved towards the woods, placing torches as he went. “Better hurry up and use it up!”

With that, Goggles ran forwards and about, ax at the ready. Hachi came along as well, wanting to help the collection process along and handle any creepers lurking about. The process would take some time.

After some time, Hivemind had flown back to the campsite. “Big ship at the opposite end of the island, red banners and all. Just anchored, doesn’t look like anybody has exited, but that doesn’t mean it’s not going to change fast.”

“Great! A chance for some revenge, haah?” Fierce replied with a smile, pulling his dagger out, “I hope that jerky little fox thing is there! It’s about time he gave me some gold for all the trouble!”

“You’re not goin’ alone!” Hivemind shouted, “You’re still recovering from the ice of last time! Someone else has to come with us!”

“I’m staying to watch over the sleepers.” Rider said, “Can’t count on sleepy little kitties to see anything coming, and I don’t want Hachi and Goggles’ friends getting hurt.”

“I can help, then!” Stealth said with a smile, “it’s hard to hurt goop.”

“I will come along, too! I’d usually be a bit more cozy with Justice… but they seem to be, well, dead asleep, funnily enough…” Mitsuami spoke up, her little buddy also chittering in agreement.

“Mhm. have you ever considered switching to a crossbow?” Hive asked.

“N-no?!” Mitsuami replied, “I-I’m not sure if I could-”

Before she could continue, Hivemind tossed an enchanted crossbow at her. “Triple shot with mending. Best used with tipped arrows if you care to. You ought to practice if you want to graduate to Fireworks sometime, but for now, simply provide cover.”

With a team put together, Hive took to the skies again. “Follow me - I have a quick path to the site. Let’s try to smooth things out before our friends in the woods have to worry.” 

With that, the group is off, and Rider is left to watch over those that were sleeping… and Mask, of course.

“What’s got you up?” Rider asked.

“Don’t like sleeping at night.” Mask replied. “Too many problems.”

“I hear you.” Rider sighed, “It’s been fun, getting out, but… geez, the night is a whole issue in itself.”

“Mm. You know it’s a problem when even the living statue finds there’s too many monsters as of late…” Mask sighed.

“Living statue?” Rider asked, “How… did you know about anything like that?”

“I-” Mask began, then thought for a while. “...Can’t remember. What’s the deal with you and statues again, even…?”

“Don’t worry about it, I prefer not to be reminded.” Rider replied. “Tell me about that book, why don’t you? I’ve been curious about some things for a while, but I don’t want to worry Hachi and Goggles about it…”

“Alright, suuure…” Mask sighed. “What’s your question?”

…

Deep in the woods, Goggles and friends were happily chopping away. Hachi and Goggles had been working together - Goggles dropping by some logs while Hachi crafted the fencing and gate. Specs had been with them moments prior, but noting they still needed a bit more for some proper housing, he ventured off to grab some more. He was out of torches, having exhausted his supply of coal, but surely just 4 more logs wouldn’t be too bad…

1…2…3…

“What do we have here?” a voice, distantly familiar, emerged from the dark. 

Specs squinted into the darkness, doing his best to see, but a sword was thrust in his face.

“Long time no see.” the Illager sneered, “It was rude of you to leave without so much as a goodbye. How about we catch up?”

Knowing his friends were close by, Specs drew in a breath, ready to scream.

“Ah, ah! None of that.” the Illager smiled, and from the darkness behind them, more half-mobs appeared. Witches, skeletons, even half-spiders. “Scream and you’ll get torn apart… now why don’t you drop that ax of yours?”

Specs thought quickly, the plan he had quieting. He knew it would be bad, but… Goggles has good hearing, right? So, surely…

With a small prayer, Specs flung his ax back. It clattered against a rock, and to the forest floor.

“Excellent. Now, come with us…”

…

Dink!

Goggles’ ears twitched, and he glanced in the direction of the noise. Glinting in the moonlight peeking through the trees, Goggles could spot a well-used iron ax, just lying on the ground.

Specs’ iron ax. It had his scent all over it. 

“Goggles?” Hachi asked, “Are you alright?”

“Go get the others.” Goggles said, “I’ll make a path. I need to see if Specs is okay.”

“Understood.” Hachi replied, and ran off to the others while Goggles collected the ax Specs had thrown.

Goggles drew in a deep breath, taking in the smells and sounds of the dark forest. Faintly, he could hear whispers - voices of strangers. And more than that…

Eyeing the darkness, armed with torches and his trident, Goggles swiftly moved forward.

Vaint voices at the edge of his hearing draw ever closer.

…

Down the road in the cover of darkness, Specs is led to a clearing. His bindings are spider silk, binding hands in front of his body, the thread held in the Illager’s hands. Her comrades were close by her, strange in the way their shadow-hidden forms lurked around.

“...What do you want from me?” Specs asked her, making sure to speak softly. “I-If this is about killing my master, I did what I had to!”

“Oh, it isn’t. I’m not really angry about that - though the potions’ lingering effects weren’t all that fun.” the illager spoke, moving to a tree stripped of its bark. “Honestly, I want to thank you. Specs is what you go by, isn’t it? Such a shame, your other name was very pretty, but I suppose Specs fits this new you… Do you remember mine, by the way? I only changed the C to a K in the spelling since we last spoke.”

Without so much as needing to ask, the half-spider separates from the shadows to tie Specs up fully. “How do you know my name? And what do you mean by thanking me, Erika?!”

Of course, he remembered every face he used to know. His leaving, the changes he made to himself, were very recent in his life. He remembered Erika, the quiet, studious villager with long, blonde, princess-like hair, and sharp green eyes. He remembered exchanging potions for stories, and staying up long nights to study anything and everything that was around them. Even on the ship, as she lay ill, she would still always sit herself up and tie his hair back when it was still long. She still gave encouraging words even when most shamed him for wearing men’s clothes.

He would’ve taken Erika with him, hadn’t the last he’d seen of her been an unending sleep she had never awoken from.

“Don’t be ashamed.” Erika reminded him, “You didn’t have the seconds to spare, getting off that boat. And I’m fine, and I want to thank you~” 

“How did you -”

“It’s written all over your face. You always scrunch it up when you think.” she interrupted. “Oh, right - You haven’t seen me since then! Let's have a look, shall we?”

With this, she places a torch just above his head and lights it, illuminating them both.

Grayed skin, as expected of an illager - but her hair now had lime-green streaks in it, and an asymmetrical cut, as well as some… strange goggles sat at the top, circular with black lenses and seemingly several different magnifications to switch from. The rest of her outfit was also different - black gear with some proofing against the elements, much like a plague doctor. 

“Isn’t my gear great?” Erika asked, her piercing eyes watching him all too closely.

“Yes?” Specs agreed cautiously. 

“Great!” she replied, and backed off. “Now, I keep forgetting~ we’re getting all caught up in catching up that I haven’t really told you what that thank-you is about, right?”

She walked off into the dark, clearing now obscured due to how his eyes had adjusted. Her lackeys stayed quietly by, as if awaiting an order. It’s about now that he noticed the blank, lifeless look in their eyes, unsettling him further…

“Now! I’m sure you remember the state everyone was left in. When I came back to consciousness, nobody could agree with each other… bickering, tearing each other apart… so of course, I thought, what was the best way to make peace with everyone? So that we could all hang about, no more whining about treasures that would never come. I figured it out, for sure. All it took was taking away all the pesky lights…” 

Specs heard the flick of a switch. Redstone in the clearing of the forest lit dimly, and slowly, the earth was jerkily pried open, redstone lamps lighting the chamber mere feet in front of them. 

The pit was filled to the brim with zombies.

All of their shambling forms held a face Specs had once recognized.

He felt like he was going to vomit.

“Surpriiiii~iiiiise!!!!” Erika cheered, her smile ear to ear. “One big, happy Village reunion! Together again!!!! Ah, isn’t it wonderful?! Look!”

One of her minions grabs his face, forcing it up to see. Another, at the very least more gentle, forces him to open his eyes. To keep looking at the horrors in front of him. 

All of the people he once knew - the community he once had. 

They were gone. No, even worse - trapped in prisons of rotting flesh and bones. The noise they made was hardly quiet; soft groans of pain, hunger and broken gibberish punctured the night air, their stench suffocating. Specs couldn’t help breaking down, the scream of anguish that had built within him muffled by a hand over his mouth.

“Aww, don’t you like it? You don’t look like you’re having much fun.” Erika said. He hadn’t noticed her walk up to him, but now her face was all he could see. Her pout made him want to punch her lights out.

She tilts her head and says, “Come on, Specs! Just think about it. When they were villagers, they always hid their discomfort with your feelings. When they fell ill, they showed their true colors to both of us! Your little master even poisoned me to keep me from leaving, and you broke his head open for tricking all of you. I made them better - quieter, compliant . They’re all much better friends now, you see? Just smile - they can’t judge you for being a boy anymore!” 

Her words only twisted the sharp pains in his stomach. He shook the hands off his face, trying to close his eyes. Trying to get away and out of his binds.

…

Goggles heard it. Redstone, complex and shifting, vibrating the ground. Something sharp fell to the pit of his stomach.

He could hear his shadow, distantly - trying to warn him of something, maybe? But he didn’t want to hear it. 

He could hear - no, he could feel it. The vibrations of things underground, voices traveling, stinging. 

Lights in the distant clearing. He tried to calm, to focus. 

Keep your cool. You have to Save him. You have to keep it together, for your friends!

…

“Ah, so you don’t like it after all? What a shame.” Erika sighed, “But you know… I’ve accounted for this, too. There’s a simple, fool-proof way to fix it if you’re not an idiot about it.”

Moving her hands from behind her back, Erika brought out a Netherite ax. It shimmered a faint, purple glow, the heat emanating from it tangible on his skin. The blade of the head was sharp - enchantingly pristine. The polish was smooth enough to see his reflection. The speckles of stars far above were warped purple by magic. 

“You can use this, right? I had this made, just for you.” Erika said, her voice a grip on that weight of pain - shaping it into something else. Something guilty. “All you have to do is swing it as much as you like, Specs! It will cut and burn a zombie away with a single strike. And as long as you don’t get bit, it will all be okay. You could do that, right?”

Before he knew it, Specs was freed up just enough to grab the ax. His hands were trembling.

He looked to the pit.

“...After… I fix them,” Specs said softly, stepping towards the edge, fixated on the mess he had started, “I’ll get you, too. You know that? You’re not getting away with what you did to them.” 

“Ohh, me too~? You shouldn’t have!” Erika replied as if it were a joke, “After all, you fed me those potions, too. Focus on the suffering first, won’t you?” 

Looking at the pool of zombies staring at him, Specs tightened his grip. As their eyes focused on him, he stepped closer to the edge.

“SPECS!!” a familiar voice called out, breaking his focus on the pool below.

At the opposite side, Goggles had run out from the darkness.

“LET GO OF SPECS, YOU JERKS!!” Goggles yelled, chucking his trident at one half-skeleton that had held him. Their bony half collapsed into the pit, taken apart as the trident had been recalled to Goggles’ hand. He ripped his jacket as he not-so-gracefully caught it, but then immediately assumed a fighting stance.

“Goggles…?” Specs mumbled softly. For a moment, the hold Erika had on him was broken - his best friend was here. And knowing Erika the way she is right now, the goofball had a high chance of getting into trouble.

“Oh! What bad timing for you to show, O special boy you are. Your eyes and feelers are sharp as ever… I was hoping you’d come after he was in the midst of struggling, but this is fine, too.” Erika spoke casually, as if suddenly mildly frustrated.

All of a sudden, Specs was shoved from behind.  He nearly fell face first, but a hand holding the back of his shirt stopped him from falling completely. Specs fumbled with the ax for a second, just barely managing to keep his hold. Suddenly, the pile of zombies below him, rather than a problem to fix, was now more of an undeniable threat!

“STOP!! Specs, Hold on, I’m coming!” Goggles called, beginning to move forward.

“Ah, ah! You really are a one-track mind, aren’t you?” Erika spoke, swinging Specs to and fro a bit. “If you come any closer, or hit me with that stupid rod, you might make me drop him~ so why don’t you play nice, hun?” 

Goggles and Erika lock eyes. For a moment, Goggles feels this strange, electric sensation… and a sense of knowing who this girl was. Her name simply appeared in his mind.

“Okay, Erika… I won’t- but- what do you want from him? What do you want from me?” Goggles asked. He had a feeling he already knew the outlines…

“Well for one, I came around to set up a little… honey trap, of sorts. You do intrigue me after all, so I thought I’d use one of my old friends to lure you out alone. You’re always so protective like that, huh? I can see it now. Even with your little boy-toys.” Erika smiled, holding a hand to her mouth. “But I’ll admit, I got a bit off track, playing with him. I had this fleeting thought of seeing if I could complete his illager transformation, or how he’d look as a friend of mine… but that’s all too boring. I’m after you, after all.”

“What do you want to know? That you don’t know already…” Goggles asked. 

“Well, I want to see how strong Her special little freak is, for one.” Erika replied, smiling as she swayed. “Could you spar a little against my friends~? I’ll let him go, then, how about?”

“Fine. I’ll do it. Just promise me, okay?” Goggles said.

“I promise! I won’t hurt him, and I’ll just let him go! Easy-peasy.” Erika replied.

With a snap of her fingers, the halflings at her side mobilized. Goggles reigned in his focus, closing his eyes. 

The part-creeper had come at him the fastest, hissing loudly all the while. Not even wasting a swing, he let the creature blow itself apart as he raised his shield. Hearing an arrow whiz by his ear, Goggles aims his trident at the disturbance, blowing apart the remains of the half-skeleton in a skilled toss.

Opening his eyes, Goggles sees the half-spider lunge at him, almost biting his head - if it weren’t for the trident knocking into it on the rebound, causing it to just barely get him on the arm. Pain lit the nerves in his arm on fire, and in anger, Goggles raised the trident and struck hard enough to knock it out, allowing him to pull the fangs out from his arm. 

“You’re not finishing that spiderling off?” Erika asked, somewhat boredly.

“You said just to spar. The Creeper blew up, and I just finished off the skeleton. The spiderling is still alive… and I don’t want to kill it. You said it was your friend.” Goggles replied. “I did what you wanted, so hold up your end of the deal. Let my friend go.”

Erika stared for a moment, expression blank as she thought. Then, she smiled.

“Okay!” She replied.

She let Specs go, dropping him into the pit. 

“NO!!!” Goggles screamed, and immediately dove into the pit himself.

Specs landed hard, his legs shot full of pain as he struggled to stay upright. The zombies around him closed in, arms outstretched and teeth gnashing. At the other end of the sea of rot, Goggles landed safer - and Specs thanked himself for asking a friend to put Feather falling on those boots of Goggles’.

Even so, no time to think - he had to save himself, Goggles… and what remained of these villagers, too. 

Specs swung his ax with deadly accuracy, aiming for the skull of the closest zombie. The magic fire burst forth from his ax, setting the zombie ablaze and burning it to ash.

At the other side of the pit, Goggles struck back wildly with his trident, the panic setting in in full. He crashed it through zombie after zombie with reckless abandon, the stain of spreading skulk around him growing ever wider, crawling up the walls. There were so many coming after him. His trident was beginning to fall apart.

“Ah, what a beautiful sight! Two people fighting tooth and nail to live~ or well, one person is. Gosh, I can’t believe I was simply going to let him go after that boring display!” Erika trilled, dancing happily around the top of the pit. “You really think nothing can die when you’re around, hmm? But with something as squishy and malleable as a half-ill villager, anything is possible! Just one bite, just one bite and I get to see it! That monster I know you can be~! Ahhh, it’s exhilarating!”

One toss away from broken, Goggles tried to hit Erika before diving back into the crowd of zombies. The more he killed, the more succumbed to his shimmering dark, the more the hollow in his chest felt full. The only thing still helping his focus were Specs’ shouts.

“You’re doing good, Goggles!” Specs called, “Keep going! It’s okay!”

The crowd was thinning out. Goggles recoiled at the burning zombies, but all the same they fell to the mass of skulk pooling on the floor. 

10 left. 

Then 3. 

Then 1. 

Finally, he smashes through the last, the crunch of bones quelling his panic for just a moment.

“Okay… That’s it…” Specs breathed between labored breaths, “Good job, Gogs…”

“Good job indeed!” Erika exclaimed, clapping her hands. “But! Poor Specs forgot he couldn’t be bit! Just look at that arm!”

“Just shut up!!” Specs shouted at her, the adrenaline within him finally starting to wane as he felt the pain of the bite she spoke of, “I’m fine! I’m fine, Goggles, it’s okay… ugh…”

“Shoot, shoot, shoot!!!” Goggles panicked again, grabbing at Specs to see the injury.

Specs’ arm was already green. He could hear his friend’s heart faltering - every bit of him beginning to slow and succumb.

“Nononono!! Specs! Specs, stay with me! We’ll get you patched up! I’m sorry, I know I wasn’t fast, I’ll fix it-”

“It’s… okay…” Specs mumbled softly. The rest of the words he had as he turned were drowned out by laughter.

The illager girl above them. No. Much more than just a Wicked Illager. Goggles recognized that much.

“Ahh, there it is~ the face of a Watcher who’s toys were taken away! Seeing it in real-time is so much better than watching in a dream! Aha~” Erika laughed.

Goggles’ chest ached. 

The souls he had taken fed him. But he didn’t want Spec’s too. He fought the urge to crush the zombie in his hands when it bit him.

Instead, tendrils of sculk sensors rose from the starlit ground, gently embracing the groaning zombie. They warbled and creaked at the vibrations of laughter, footfalls, and the creaking of Goggles’ body.

“He… was my friend.” Goggles growled. His shadow was here, speaking through him, too. “You took away my friend.”

“What’s the difference, exactly? Both are things you play with until they stop working. And either way, I’ve wanted to observe the power of your tantrum myself~” Erika replied.

He knew he shouldn’t. He should keep his calm, pick Specs back up, and rush him back to the others.

He didn’t care. He wanted Erika dead.

A scream rose from deep within him, echoing through the forest, hitting her dead on.

Chapter Text

For one, halfway through making a path to follow, it looked like Goggles ran out of torches. He had clustered them so unnecessarily close at the beginning of a straight line that it was no wonder he ran out! 

And despite Rider and Mask’s reservations about leaving the rest to rest, they set up a fence with what they had and woke Fullmoon up a bit more so she could watch over the others. Thus, Mask, Hachi and Rider were all wandering the woods each with their own color torch to signify if they’ve searched what area. Each was capable of defending themselves, so they saw no harm in splitting up to find their friends faster. But eventually, the three ran dry of their torches and quickly regrouped to discuss the next course of action.

Then, they heard it.

The loud, growling, blood-curdling screech that rang out throughout the island.

Rider and Hachi immediately knew who it belonged to. 

“Oh Fuck-” Rider swore.

“Goggles!” Hachi yelled, glancing around frantically as the scream echoed around the trees, everywhere and nowhere at once.

“Here!” Mask called to the two, “Down this way! Follow me, NOW!”

They couldn’t explain why, but the moment that sound hit him, he knew the exact space they had to be at. Or, well, they had an educated guess about why they could pinpoint - but it certainly wasn’t the time to dwell or explain. Their passengers were in trouble.

The three ran as fast as they could, Mask’s agility putting them ahead of the others. Soon enough, a lit clearing finally came into view.

 The mess before them was worse than they could imagine.

A pit filled to the brim with skulk, at the base, a zombie of their friend had been left, thoughtless beyond pain as it trudged around, the censor tendrils clinging to his legs, stunting the ability to roam free. 

Past the pit, where the sculk had dragged up and over the side, a growing path of carnage led into the woods.

“I’ll handle Specs.” Mask told the other two, knowing the look of terror on their faces and not wanting to see, “Go find your boyfriend. Keep him safe - somebody caused this, I’m sure.” 

“On it!” Hachi called, already halfway around the pit.

“Thank you.” Rider told them, and with a practiced maneuver cleared a jump over the pit skillfully to continue the chase. 

Once they were gone, Mask sighed to themselves. “Never thought this’d come in handy…” 

They removed their gloves, slow and carefully - underneath, their claws lay, covered up the arms in its own form of skulk. Though dark and certainly of deep descent, thanks to the experimentation they did, it wouldn’t eat Mask up more than it already had, and certainly wouldn’t turn this cat into a warden. In fact, it glowed in life-like pulses, colored and fed by Mask’s cyan-hued magic. 

Getting on his stomach, Mask batted at the sculk lining the walls. As those tendrils rose to meet the ones spreading from his own, he could feel the grief present within - anger, sadness, fear, all welling up inside as the censors attempted to push Mask out. 

“It’s okaaay. I’m not here to hurt, I’m going to help. The sun will come up soon - we have to keep Specs safe in the dark. You just have to help me move him.” Mask explained, watching the vibrations of their voice travel through the tendrils.

Upon understanding, the tendrils pull Mask down and give them a safe landing. The zombie that was Specs, now seeing Mask down here with him, slowly advanced towards him, staggering steps as he raised his hands, one clutching a dangerous ax. 

“Shit… I forgot about restraints…” Mask sighed to themselves, “How am I stopping you from biting me…?”

Then, it hit him - literally, a white rope of strong webbing hit Mask on the head as it fell from above. Mask only barely caught the glimpse of a hand before hearing footfalls scutter away.

“Oh.” Mask said softly, then called out louder, “Thaaaanks. I guess. But if you did this go fuck yourself.” 

Readying the  rope, Mask approached Specs. As the zombie went for a weak swing, Mask caught that arm, then the other, and swung around to tie his arms back. Despite the clear undeadness, Mask made sure he tied the rope as cozily as he could.

“Uuuuuahhhghh…. Ihhhht…z… faiiiii…nnhhnee……” Zombie Specs groaned, lifeless eyes doing their best to look over his shoulder at Mask.

“I know, it’s not comfortable.” Mask sighed, cutting the rope with his pocket knife, “Just baaare with me a little bit. In fact, keep your mouth open like that for a second.”

As Specs moved to take a bite out of Mask, they balled up one of their gloves and shoved it in his mouth. “There. Now you can’t bite when I pick you up.”

If zombies could look frustrated, Specs sure seemed to be. Nonetheless, Mask hoisted Specs up onto their shoulder, and took their gardening hoe out.

“Thanks for the path out.” Mask mumbled, setting his sights on the corrupted wall. “Should be easy enough to form a stairwell.”

Once they crawled out of the pit, Mask one-handedly rummaged around their bag. “Come on, come on… emergency horn… ha. There we are.” 

Having finally yanked the horn out of his inventory, Mask put their lips to it and blew. The sound was loud, basey and blaring - but the other cats knew what it meant. Emergency.

“Here’s to hoping we can shape that lumber into a house before the sun shines.” Mask sighed to themselves.

…

Rider and Hachi sped through the forest, following the path of sculk as fast as they could. Weaving through trees as fast as they could, they were slowly gaining on the pair running into the woods. Slowly the trees thinned out to a rocky shore, where the girl had tried to slow and turn - only to get grabbed by Goggles.

Finally, the two got a closer look at Goggles - and he was in a sorry state. Two large tendril-like horns had appeared on his head, and he had gotten physically larger. The maw on his chest had tore through his clothes, the teeth like fractured ribsprotruding out, gasping for souls. Out of his back, more bony spikes protruded to make way for the emergence of several large tendrils, fanning out almost like wings. His hands, dyed dark with skulk, squeezed tightly to Erika’s leg, tight and closing in harder. 

“Ah, the perks of being an illager,” Erika sighed, her sentence interrupted by the snap of her own leg, “Pain is quelled quite quickly! Unlike you, who wails and wallows… I wonder if you could evolve even more~ tell me, where’s the rest of your friends?”

Goggles, full ferality, roared at her in response. 

“What the hell did you do to him?!” Rider hissed, pulling his golden greatsword out for a fight. 

Erika glanced over at the duo - something about her eyes, or the way she stared - it made them falter.

“Oh… oh, oh, oh!!! Your boyfriends!!!!! The ones that started it all!!” Erika cried out in joy, twisting herself around and kicking Goggles with her free leg as she yanked the book she had from her pocket, “They’re just what I need to push you over further!! Will you wilt? Grow? FRACTURE?! I need to see!!!!”

Goggles tried to stop her, bringing a fist down on her chest. Erika grinned manically as a strange power flowed into her book, digital-green lines glowing on the cover as pages the same color glowed and overflowed. She was cackling, the crackling, web-like powers sprawling from the pages, threading her chest back together before she could be harmed fatally. The very same spindly threads, shaking and glitching about, caught Rider’s sword as he swung at her, quickly destabilizing it.

“Nifty, isn’t it?!” Erika smiled, “Now, for trying that little stunt, why don’t we give you a nice open-chest plan to match your beloved?!”

Rider quickly attempted to pull away, but it was as if the sword was now rooted in the air, unable to budge unless the green static willed it. The lines of codelike magic began to crawl down and reach for Rider at a blinding pace. Thinking fast, Hachi ran to shove Rider out of the way of danger. He was too slow to stop it.

Until the probing lines stopped just before his heart. 

Some portal had opened up, allowing the code strings to feed into a pitch-black darkness. 

“Huh?” Erika muttered, confused by the vortex that had opened.

Bubbles of grey travel back down through the threads, dispersing them as they burst, spreading these cracks in reality to that pitch-dark place. 

Instinctively, Goggles jumped away from it, tentacles bristling as he growled at the void spreading fast. Erika couldn’t move in time before the crack spread to her, plunging her in before closing up. The last of her had been the book she tried to use - powering down to black and grey, a red lock appearing on the outside before it, too, fell into the void. 

And just like that, in the blink of an eye, the void crack vanished, as if reality had never ruptured. 

“Wh- what…?” Hachi muttered.

“You - you saw that, right?” Rider asked.

“O-Of course. We all did.” Hachi confirmed, processing for a moment before shaking his head. “It- it’s whatever. Divine punishment. Goggles needs us.” 

The two glance over to Goggles, who was now snarling, beating at the sand where his target once was, howling in anguish. 

“Goggles.” Hachi spoke, tone gentle as ever. “Are you with us? It’s going to be okay…” 

Slowly, the monster turned his head to look at them. He tilted his head, rubbing his eyes with a paw, uncertain of the reality. He was half between violence, half between backing away in fear - like two halves of his heart bickering over what was safer. Safer for him or safer for his boyfriends, nobody knew.

“We… saw what happened. It wasn’t pretty.” Rider admitted gently, “what’s done is done. I’m sorry we couldn’t help sooner… but with the problem gone, the best we could do for ya is to bring ya a place to cry. There’s nothin’ else we can do.”

Goggles stared them down… and his expression softened. Skulk tears began to dribble down his face as he shrunk in, sitting down and curling in on himself. 

“Coul-dn’t save hi-m…” Goggles cried, his multitude of voices harmonized in his pain, “I coul-dn’t…! Was t-oo mu-ch…!”

Quickly, Hachi hugged Goggles, and Rider moved to coil his body around them both, squeezing them both gently as he embraced Goggles, too.

“I know.” Rider spoke, his own tears barely threatening to fall, “I know how it feels… I know…”

Slowly but surely, as Goggles calmed, his monstrous features retreating into his stomach and back. Though his body and horns shrunk down, the horns didn’t entirely disappear. A lens of his favorite goggles had been cracked from the earlier fight, and now dripped some sculk that had pooled in it earlier.

As the sun gave the first hints of rising, the trio began their trek back to camp. 

…

Back with the group that had gone to explore the ship that was found, the boat was a strange, eerie sight. Though fully stocked with foods, murals and all sorts of treasures, not a single soul seemed to inhabit it so far. The four didn’t dare risk splitting, so the exploration was quite slow going. 

“This is… odd. There’s no way a ship that could house so many is just. Abandoned.”  Hive said, habitually taking inventory of each chest he checked. 

“And there was no trace nor scent of a big ass settlement!! Just the usual smell of the night off ship, if not a little extra undead…”  Fierce confirmed, stuffing gold in his pockets from all the chests he checked. 

“Hey, Um!!” Mitsuami peeked into the room the two were currently in, “Lil’ buddy hears something! Whoever it is seems to be keeping still for one reason or another…”

“Yup. my bet is faaar down the ship, but not quite cargo.” Stealth agreed.

“Ah, so like a brig?” Fierce asked.

“If so, that leaves us with some choices to make.” Hive sighed. “Mitsuami, if you and your little fish could lead?”

“Sure.”

With this, the four made their way down the stairs of the ship. Slowly but surely, a pair of voices made it into earshot, distinctly with what one would consider a british accent. The more masculine of the two definitely had a thicker accent, while the lighter toned one was just overall more quiet and restrained about their words.

“Are you… sure you should be moving your hands like that? It looks like you might break…” the softer one spoke.

“S’alright, love- I almost got ‘er…! Shit…”

“What did I tell you? Here, let me fix it…” 

“Set it all yew like, but’cha know i can’t heal anymore.” 

Hive peeked through the doorway to the brig, spotting a pair sitting within the same jail cell. A ring of keys and a snapped, previously sturdy piece of straw were on the floor a ways away. 

Surprisingly, one of the inhabitants of the cell had been a Zombie. But he wasn’t eating anyone, nor seeming to suffer or roam or shamble; he simply sat in the lap of the larger individual as they gently wrapped his palm with a scrap of fabric, cheek resting on their chest with a bored, tired expression. The eyeless gap in his face was painful to look at, but the rest of him was… put together, almost handsome.

Deciding it was rude to stare any further, Hivemind rounded the corner. “So there were some occupants of this ship, after all. Greetings.” he said.

The two in the cage startled, and the Zombie hopped up, hands grasping the bars tightly. “Yes!! Hi- hello- My name is Xavier and this lovely creature with me is Vel, we were wrongly imprisoned and we would very much like to be let out now! If you could.” 

“We are… merchants? Merchants.” Vel added unsurely, their void black eyes with crimson irises stared at the ground rather than the group. “Once we have some of our stuff back, I’m certain we could… reward you.”

“Really?” Hive asked.

“Ya know, not every day a Zombie keeps their brains.” Fierce said, tilting his head. “How do you… live?”

“Could ask ya the very same, oh piggy in the ovaworld.” Xavier replied snappily. “I am not keen on revealin’ just wot happened to me, but what I would like to reveal is the guts of tha wretched witch that trapped us ‘ere. An’ if ya could kindly let us out, I can make sure yew lot won’t cross paths with ‘er.”

“Sheesh. Sore subject, huh?” Fierce muttered. 

“Very!” Xavier confirmed, “Now, how much time do we have to escape?”

“All in the world, maybe… the crew here seems to have vanished. No witches, no people.” Mitsuami replied.

While she was talking, Stealth picked up the keys.

“Oh.” Vel replied, “Then… I guess the ship is ours to take. We are the last left, after all…” 

“I don’t think that’s how that works?” Hive said.

“Well… I came from a place where death is rampant. When taking the means to survive, it didn’t really matter if there was a next of kin to search for - you took what you needed to survive a little longer. If you were on the ship when everyone else dropped dead, it’s your ship.” Vel replied.

“They sure did! An’ I quite like that philosophy. No one’s usin’ this thing right now, yeah? So we ought to use it as it’s meant.” Xavier added. 

“I think that would be nice.” Stealth replied, and quickly unlocked the door before anyone could stop him. “In that case, captains, do you mind if my friends and I sail with you? It would be more cozy than the rope boat system we’ve got goin’ on. We’re headed for the moth goddess’ jungle for her party!” 

Hive was sputtering as he fumed at Stealth for just opening the cell door for the strangers, but as the two stepped out, Xavier smiled warmly. 

“Seems good to me - I can’t quite drive the boat in daylight how I am, and Vel… well? You know how ta sail a ship?”

Vel shook their head and replied, “My eyes are bad in daylight either way.”

“Welp, there ya have it. Truce for now.” Xavier concluded, walking past the group with fingers laced behind his head, “Gather whoever’s comin’ and we’ll be off! I’m gonna go grab my soaps n’ such and take a bath.”

Vel followed behind, pausing quickly to spin on their heel and bow to the group. “Thank you. I’ll do my best to protect the passengers on this journey.”

The two wander off, leaving the four to wonder about the strange pair.

…

Chapter Text

By morning, news of what happened to Specs had reached the whole camp, spread by Mask and the cats as they swiftly worked to make at least a small shack for the Zombified friend to reside in. devastated as they were with this news already, Headphones and Bobble swiftly worked to assist while they anxiously awaited Goggles’ and the others' return. 

A bit after sunrise, Rider and Hachi appeared through the trees, Rider carrying a sleeping Goggles in his arms, passed out from the stress of last night’s endeavors. 

“What… happened to him?” Bobble asked, expression more neutral than anything at this point.

“It’s… hard to explain.” Hachi admitted, “He’s had these traits even before he met you all, and they rear their head when high amounts of stress get to him. I… don’t know if the horns will go away with time anymore. What happened tonight really hurt him.”

“Who did this?! There’s no way an island can just have a big enough horde for us not to handle - Specs is usually never caught off guard…” Headphones asked, tears still dripping down her cheeks.

“There was this… Illager woman. Blond and green vertical stripes in her hair with piercing green eyes. Dresses much like Mask with the PPE, and has a book that produces these green, wire-like effects that can be used to sew people and objects or disassemble them.” Rider explained, turning his body so that the others could see the decayed state of his sword resting on his hip. “Last we saw of her though, it seemed her magic backfired in some way and she disappeared. I don’t know if that’s the end of her or what, but if I see her shit-eating grin again I won’t hesitate to crush her.”

“Hm.” Bobble thought out loud, “I think the dragons mentioned a famously unethical and dangerous illager scientist - I wouldn’t be surprised if she was the same as what we’ve dealt with tonight. Erika, Blight of the Village. Her experiments often wipe entire ships and settlements off the map. And if Specs was attacked by a high-volume of zombies… perhaps that gives us an idea of where the people went, huh…? I wish I had the means to check the accuracy of that, though. I often mush the wanted list individuals together…”

“Well it seems we will get our answer on who to curse if we can fix Specs - or if Goggles caught the outlaw’s name.” Fullmoon spoke up, brushing some dust from her orange and black speckled fur. “Mask was cozy with an outsider for once - and I will not forgive those that seek to destroy our allies.” 

“I think I agree with the cats for once!” Bobble replied with an uneasy smile, holding a hand out to the calico, “Make our mark die a thousand deaths?” 

Fullmoon grinned widely, whiskers twitching as paw met and shook Bobble’s hand. “We shall force them into hell hotter than the nether you come from, my friend!” 

Whilst plots of revenge were talked of, Hivemind flew back over the crowd. “Guys! We’ve got a big ship willing to ferry us the rest of the way in styyywhat the fuck happened here?!”

“A lot.” Rider replied, “Long story short some bitch got Specs bit and zombified, and he’s currently holed up in that shack the cats built.”

“I helped Mask tie him to the bed!” Designer piped up, orange tail wagging as he added, “He’s still green in the gills, but he’s pawsitively cared for and safe!”

“Oh shit.” Hivemind replied, worried expression on his face, “Are we gonna be okay to move out? What are we gonna do about that?!”

“I… don’t know.” Hachi answered, crossing his arms. “I really don’t know. Can we fix him, or is he just… lost?”

“To answer your question.” Justice spoke up from their seat on the roof, “I know of an old fix. I informed Mask of it just this morning, and have been working to find components outside of the potions we need. If we can pull this off correctly, we will be able to return Specs to his living self. Potion of weakness to dampen the curse and loosen stale blood, and then a rare golden apple to rejuvenate the flesh and flush magic through the body. If this still works, it simply means that he will need just a few days of rest to fully recover - and in that time I intend to caretake him as well, so that the negative effects of such an accident won’t be as severe.”

“Then what should the travel plan be? I’d imagine it’s a bad idea to be late for the party.” Hive said.

“I do not recommend Goggles be kept around for the procedure if he is sensitive right now.” Justice replied, “It’s… not quite a pretty process, and if Specs ends up in pain, well. I know a loud warden call roused me from sleep last night.”

“If we leave you guys to it, and he makes it… you’ll catch up, right?” Headphones asked.

“Of course! Mask even made copies of his maps in case you guys wanted to keep moving.” Designer replied, tossing her a map.

“Well we should honestly try to ask him when he wakes up.” Rider said.

“I… hear you…… He said… go…………” Goggles spoke up groggily, barely opening his eyes for a brief moment. “Somethin’s… gonna……… we gotta go……soon……”

Everyone waited to hear more, but Goggles buried his face into Rider’s scales, silence to follow as he drifted back off. 

“I guess that’s our answer.” Hachi sighed.

“Well, the ship we found has lots of food to spare. We can give the rations we were carrying earlier to justice and the cats, and I’ll see if what you need for the last of the ritual was stored on the boat. Those of you coming along for the trip, please follow me.” Hivemind said.

Preparations are made, and rations split - those staying are the remaining cats, specs, and Justice, while the rest board the boat and say their goodbyes. At the reluctant last second, Fierce chucks one of his apples off the side of the deck, accidentally nailing Designer in the head, but nonetheless giving them one more piece to the puzzle needed to fix Specs.

“DON’T YOU THINGS COLLECT GOLD, TOO?!” Designer wailed.

“I ONLY HAVE 5 BARS! NOT ENOUGH!” Fierce called back.

“HAND THAT OVER TOO, YOU CHEAPSKATE!”

“DIRECTLY INTO YOUR HEAD AGAIN OR?”

“NEVERMIND ACTUALLY!!!!”

…

“Goggles… Goggles. Wake up.”

Slowly, Goggles opened his eyes. The void again.

It took effort, but he soon raised himself onto his feet as his shadow took his hand. His shadow grinned excitedly, static buzzing around their form.

“Come see.” the shadow coaxed, “She’s in big fuckin’ trouble now!”

Confused by what he meant, but not able to find the voice to speak, Goggles let his monochrome double lead the way.

Eventually, into view came Erika - she had been bound in black chains, anchoring her to the ground. Something in the inky darkness skittered around her, a clattering cacophony of insectoid footfalls as the monster in the dark circled her, impatiently waiting for her awakening. 

“I have to go do something for you.” his shadow said, “Stay here - enjoy the show~!”

Slowly, Erika opened her eyes, then tried to hop up - but her bindings wouldn’t let her stand fully.

“Ah! The void! My dearest maiden, what did you summon me for?!” Erika called out. She didn’t seem to see Goggles at all.

Suddenly, a response - a voice like gravel and decay, echoing through their minds.

“You have broken my rule. Knowingly.” the beast hissed, an appendage reaching from the darkness to tug one of the chains, forcing her to kneel. “You are not to harm your sibling eyes. And yet, you nearly caused the one we had worked so hard to keep together to break once more. Do you understand the magnitude of your betrayal?”

“Yes- no- I mean, I-” Erika stammered, “Dear maiden, I had no idea who he was!”

Echoes of her own voice ring out around her, warped and distorted.

“Oh! What bad timing for you to show, O special boy you are. Your eyes and feelers are sharp as ever… I was hoping you’d come after he was in the midst of struggling, but this is fine, too.”

“Well for one, I came around to set up a little… honey trap, of sorts. You do intrigue me after all, so I thought I’d use one of my old friends to lure you out alone. You’re always so protective like that, huh? I can see it now. Even with your little boy-toys. But I’ll admit, I got a bit off track, playing with him. I had this fleeting thought of seeing if I could complete his illager transformation, or how he’d look as a friend of mine… but that’s all too boring. I’m after you, after all.”

“Well, I want to see how strong Her special little freak is, for one.”

“You really think nothing can die when you’re around, hmm? But with something as squishy and malleable as a half-ill villager, anything is possible! Just one bite, just one bite and I get to see it! That monster I know you can be~! Ahhh, it’s exhilarating!”

“Ahh, there it is~ the face of a Watcher who’s toys were taken away! Seeing it in real-time is so much better than watching in a dream! Aha~” 

“Oh… oh, oh, oh!!! Your boyfriends!!!!! The ones that started it all!! They’re just what I need to push you over further!! Will you wilt? Grow? FRACTURE?! I need to see!!!!”

Erika, hearing her own exclamations, seemed to stiffen in terror.

“O-o…kay, maybe I did know. But don’t you want to know what happens too?!” Erika argued, eyes wide in terror as countless centipede-like arms came forth from the darkness. “Isn’t that why you have watchers in the first place?! You want to know! I can show you what happens!”

“Your meager attempts at trickery disgust me.”

A deep red hood emerges from darkness - the figure inside is like the void around it, formless and shifting. It almost acted as a main body to the shifting things in the darkness, decaying and reforming ribs dancing below the cloak. 

“I know all which befalls my eyes - the possibilities that be, the outcomes that pour from bloodshed. Each watcher of mine is delivered from despair, from pains of loss and neglect. To tear each other down further is a sin to be punished.”

As Goggles watched, he noticed something… not quite fearful in Erika’s eyes. Desperately beating out exactly what he knew it was, he replaced the emotion as extreme curiosity.

“What are you gonna do to me?” Erika asked, definitely absolutely so definitely fearfully i swear,

Rotting hands extend from under the cloak, holding Erika’s book, the shimmering red lock pulsing, as if sapping energy from the book.

“Your ability has been cut down in power - the excess shall aid in allowing that which you hurt to Fracture without significant injury. One of his Pieces will hold the key to your lock, and only getting it from them will set your power free. Do you understand?”

“I- … yes.” Erika sighed, “That’s so boring… can’t you tear my guts out and put them back or something? This is a dream, can’t you be more creative?” 

God, Goggles fucking hated her.

“I am  putting you in solitary confinement for seven hours now.”

“BUT THAT’S LIKE SEVEN DAYS IN OVERWORLD TIME!!! I’M NOT GONNA BE ABLE TO STAND!!!!!”

“Such is the way of punishment, girl.”

The monster drops the book on Erika, and as it thunks her on the head she and her bindings fall through the floor into the darkness, not to be seen for a while. Goggles is relieved.

“I’m back.” shadow goggles declared, “Was that terrible or what?”

Goggles nodded rapidly. The large monster turned its gaze to them, a pair of striking pinpoints of red appearing in the formless shadowed hood of the cloak. As she reached for Goggles, he recoiled in fear, but soft material extended over her arms as she gently picked both him and his shadow up, cradling him in her arms.

“I agree with your shadow. Erika… is a handful. But her sins will not go unnoticed.” the monster declared.

“Yeah, we’re glad for that - Excuse Goggles, he can’t talk here. He doesn’t manifest right a lot of the time, I think it’s the Fracturing that does it.” Shadow Goggles spoke up, “But don’t worry - I know what he’s thinking, so I can translate any silences.”

“I do understand. His disability is the most severe.” she answered, “I do believe this is the first time we are meeting formally as well. I am the Wither-Maiden; God of the void, decay, and rebirth.”

“Thanks for finally tellin’ us.” Shadow Goggles said, “Now, If you can, I’d like you to explain to Goggles some of his, uh… Watcher disability. I’m sure he’ll want to know why he’s Fractured, what it means and all that. And what that’s got to do with me.”

“I see. You must mean to say you don’t really know what it is, either.” the maiden guessed, watching the two intrigued. “Then allow me.”

The darkness shifted. Suddenly, in a platform between them, there was a creature with curly red hair, dragonfly-like wings, and a pair of horns, one longer than the other, but each of those having holes in them, like swiss cheese. He stared up at his onlookers, eyes and sclera shades of purple while his pupils were light, glowing. In hands hidden by hoodie sleeves, he held a book - the black outer shell ripped to reveal a slimy red inner cover. His tail, an ashy dark gray like most of his skin, flicked around playfully.

“This watcher, strange and perhaps too-helpful, recently Fractured himself in order to provide aid. Despite his powers being a perfect fit to help without… having to do THAT.”

The changeling didn’t argue - he simply shrugged.

“You see, first becoming a watcher is brought on by an act or event of deep pain or despair, happening violently enough for me to sense and tap into. Yours had been the loss of everything you held dear, even yourself - Erika’s was a betrayal, so on and so forth. I make offers if one is conscious enough to choose - otherwise, I make the choice to save my watchers from tragedy.”

For example, as the maiden talks, the two watch one of the changeling’s memories - as they are spat out a portal and into the end, they try to go back, only for the rift to close. He stares off an end island into the void below, eventually becoming too tired to simply hold themselves up any longer. Down they plunge into the maiden’s claws. A black book is pulled from their chest, decorated by purple holes mimicking the state of his horns and wings. 

“In exchange for allowing me to witness the worlds of time and space I cannot reach, they are all granted gifts. However, if put in a situation where even my gifts are not able to save the user in full from their pain once more, you fracture. A piece of your power leaks out, forming separate books, each carrying a piece of your potential, often modeled to the recipient’s desires.”

In this example, they see a montage of the changeling using their gift - handing out pages of their book, secret to even the maiden’s eyes, he’s able to reward those that complete them, from healing illness to gifting treasures. Those that fail or speak of what they had to do with anyone are met with varying amounts of misfortune - all of which act to stitch together any wounds the changeling sustained.

Though, it seemed, he wanted to help someone he came across one day - in a cold cabin, a group keeps their friend safe as his curse is eating him up. The changeling prepares to assign a task to them, but quickly sees that he is too weak to even lift his head. No matter what they assign, this creature will fail and suffer for it.

So thus, the changeling took the hand of the strongest-looking monster, leading them out to the icy wastes before laying in the snow. They tore a page out, wrote her the task, then bit their hand, smearing it red with blood. They let the monster read - who refuses at first, but the changeling insists - doing their best to make them. Hell, to goad her into taking her dragon form and doing her best to tear him up along with his book. 

When the cover finally tears, a strong energy engulfed them both. 

“As you can see, after he pulled that one off, I snapped him up for a strong talking-to. But look there.”

Now next to the dragon, was a metallic red book. Striking as it sapped up any remaining energy or bloodshed. A black, bleeding heart decorated the cover, a singular purple slit at its center. 

“The fracture bestowed upon this dragon the power of ‘gift’ - or whatever she will wish to call this. It will allow her to pull life force from the world around her once per day and bestow the energy onto her dying friend, delaying his demise and strengthening him just a little. It’s nothing impressive, but it can snowball into something great as long as that poor cursed thing uses his energy wisely.”

Of course, Goggles and his shadow look to each other, then back at her. “Well… how did that happen for us, then? I personally assume that everyone of my fellow shadows remaining are also personifications of a fracture by this point, but… why are there so many? Why do only I manifest fully? And… why do I or any of the remaining shadows exist here?”

In response, the illusion of the changeling vanished, and another visual came into play - the moment of pain ingrained in their chests for eternity.

“Goggles’ fracturing event was when the portal closed on him - this much energy collapsing inward with him inside would have broken him entirely, past the point of fracture to complete oblivion. Even in that instant, all I could do was provide a book, and watch as it only managed to save Goggles for just a blink. But, lucky for him… the cosmos were on his side, and that was enough to herald some help.”

They watch a book manifest, but pure energy still burned and shocked, too powerful to even feel as time itself warped and tore him apart. From the book itself stepped Goggles’ shadow, who grabbed tight to Goggles and squeezed tight, not letting go even as the aftershocks of collapsed time-space beat down on them both. The withermaiden in the illusion tried to probe this warped space, but even she couldn’t squeeze in just yet, heavily wounded just from trying. The only connection she had was the book, and anything she sent in was being burnt away by the distortions. As the shadow cried out for help, other shadows began to manifest - though the chaotic energy clearly hurt them too, they did what they could, taking blow after blow. And as the maiden did her best to communicate to them, several of the bunch moved out to places only they could see. Bit by bit, the space they were trapped in was stabilizing. The shadows of goggles’ teammates weaken, then retreat to the static that made ShadowGoggles’ very being, making him persist bit by bit, just a little longer each merge.

“ Surely you remember, little shadow - you were there to keep him whole, physically holding him together so that you yourself would not disappear, and send them crumbling after you. As you two laid in wait, eons in a blink. The other shadows were losing themselves just fixing you - the strongest set out to make games for your pieces to observe, funneling energy through for your fix. I’ve never seen such a terrifying myriad of splinters, finding themselves reflected in daylight, forming worlds for those hearts and ending them just to keep you breathing, keeping them alive. Piling souls of repeating selves into your chests. Horribly beautiful.”

Soon, several groups do the same as the shadows of the blue team - they each pick a leader to empower, furthering the time they have to scour for spare energy that wouldn’t tear them apart. A shadow of Army is the first to make it back, the starry bits of light clinging to his book disappear as the cover touches Goggles’ withered book. The book sucked it in, and the whirlpool of souls in Goggles’ chest grew. The first book is suddenly stable, then breaking once more, but the irradiated hell of pressure between dimensions was suddenly… bearable, if not just slightly. Then arrived a shadow Emperor, then shadow-Skull, clung to by aviator’s tearful shadow before it, too, finally was absorbed to keep shadow-skull stable. More and more come to dump these souls into the books, some disgusted, some intrigued by what they had to do, or how this was even working. 

But it did.

And soon, Goggles’ book was stable. The distortion caused was gone, the residual energy reigned in. the shadows that remained, weary from all the energy expended, each clung tight to their own colored book - a reward for all their efforts. Goggles’ shadow was finally able to move freely himself, and ran over to hug one of his saviors - only for them to destabilize and fade, one by one retreating into their own fracture-book. Save for one, who smiled cruelly and told him that he’d actively make their lives worse for making him sweat, picking up his own book dotted in three soul-stars before wandering off into the echoing void.

Shadow Goggles glanced over at his light self. Clearly in a nightmare, hands clutched around a book that held a deep galaxy of stars, glinting in deep blue. The maiden in the illusion approached, finally able to console as the shadow wept.

“ When you all finally stabilized, each shadow that remained found themselves sleeping in their own, separate book - though each a splinter of the power of you two, they had carved out a place in destiny for their light counterparts, and therefore themselves. Their final awakening is to come with the incarnations of those who made such strong impressions - the counterparts to these remaining shadows. Those that were sacrificed in the fray to keep their friends stable… Well, they’re still part of each of you. They may one day manifest again. And any other splinter you make, each and every shadow-book, is a place for them to crawl out and rest their head until they can form again. You are stable enough to survive thanks to them all. And with Erika donating a surplus of her energy, we shall see who gains a new piece of your powers.”

Goggles felt… dizzy. And sick. For once, his shadow didn’t look much better.

“Miss Wither Maiden…” Shadow Goggles asks, “Goggles wants to know… what would’ve happened if we failed to stabilize? Would we all have just… died? Did we have to absorb the lesser shadows just to live?”

“I do not think it important to dwell upon. What is done has been done. Just as I was formed from the spine of a god, your existence and the state of your splinters was a matter you could not control. Do not think of this as your fault… even if that one spiteful one thinks it is.” Replied the withermaiden.

“Well… if we are all the holders of fractures, do the same rules apply as with other watchers? Can we hurt each other?” Shadow Goggles asked.

“You slipped out of my jurisdiction. You can exist, obtain your own watcherhood, hurt each other - though I don't suggest you see what happens when you fight. Erika and the other watchers cannot hurt Goggles, but the holders of his splinter books I technically cannot punish her for. I am hoping this punishment will dissuade further experimentation with the rules.” withermaiden replied.

“We shadows can be watchers?”

“One already is - they asked for this in the midst of the fracturing, and it worked for them to provide some stability - but oddly enough, their light counterpart is completely normal and not bound to me. Their book is also simply the same as the fracture book. It’s… quite the special case. You and Goggles are twin watchers, each sharing core properties of one between you two.”

“I see. One more question… once our fracturing finishes… will I get a friend back? Would it be selfish of me to ask for one of my closest back?”

“It may be possible. And i would not call it selfish at all. Let’s see what we can do to fix things…”

With that, the maiden reached a claw to Goggles’ book. A piece of the cover was splintered out of place. It was gently moved, before lines of Erika’s magic threaded through the space it left behind, sewing up the book to its former glory.

The shard that was removed glowed brightly. Both Goggles and his shadow felt something inside them stir, pulling away as the new book formed.

…

Chapter Text

Laceless, after some short days travel with Regent, had made it to Mothera’s jungle and back safely. They had returned with food, stories, and most of all… questions. 

As soon as he had made it into Jungle territory, he recalled how Regent had practically run from him. 

He remembered the terror on his face, as he said, “You’re here - my debt is paid. For your sake, don’t go looking for me after this. Get whatever you need, and get home safely. That’s that.” and flew off as fast as his wings took him. 

He wasn’t much of a talker in their short time traveling, nor was he keen on answering much. Each time he had to fight whatever corruption was happening to him, he’d curl up in pain, biting into his scales to hold it back. Lace of course worried, and tried to soothe him or do something for him, but he’d get shoved back or yelled at to keep away - just told to keep a distance and run at the signs of trouble.

As he stands by his beautifully cultivated coral garden, Laceless sighed in frustration. He wished he did more. By now, it was probably too late to do much for him. Whatever is infecting Regent’s body is likely back in control.

But… still, Lace had his questions. And he knew there was one person, with full control of xemself, that could answer some perhaps.

“Laceless!” As if on cue, Prince had arrived, calling out to him. “I would like a couple yellow corals for my outfit - do you have anything?”

“Oh, of course, my king!” Laceless replied, absentmindedly, showing him some particularly beautiful variants, “I have some lovely horn coral singlets and fans for you - even blocks if you want to just chip them apart. P-please, take what you wish.”

As xey took from the garden, they noticed that Laceless had been staring for a bit of a long time. Laceless was very distracted with trying to figure out how he’d bring up what he wanted to say.

“Laceless?” Prince asked, fins full of coral, “Do you need something, my friend?” 

“O-oh!” Laceless replied, “Well… eh… on my journey… I met someone. They were… confusing, but very, um, interesting…”

“Oh?” Prince replied, tilting xer head, “Do you fancy a land dweller?”

“It’s more like… I met someone worrisome.” Laceless replied, moving a bit close and lowering his voice. “Do you know… a humanoid creature named Regent, by any chance?”

At this, Prince paused. Laceless shrunk back a bit, but of course, he knew xey wouldn’t hurt him.

“I… do. I’ve met him once before. Golden horns and lava-red wings?” Prince asked.

“Yea.” Laceless confirmed, “I thought he was dealing with a corruption of sorts when I found him, so I hit him with the ol’ golden apple and Weakness trick. But… It was weird. He was a bit brash, but he was more… scared, I think.”

“I see.” Prince replied, “Come. Let's discuss this somewhere private.”

With that, the dragon led Laceless into the castle, down a couple corridors into his Horde room. Many stacks and piles of things were meticulously placed, from piles of pearls and gems to towering stacks of books, kept safe by magic.

“So.” Prince began, “What you met was the Red Dragon in disguise, most likely. I, too, noted the strange moments of clarity he has, and have been there to witness. He knew my name before I knew his. I don’t know much of his true motivations, but I’ll answer what I can, and hopefully between us we can come up with some sort of solution to his mysterious ways. Does that sound okay with you?”

“Yeah.” Laceless replied, sitting down on a large shelf of coral that acted as a seat, “For my first question… do you have any ideas on what’s causing his corruption?”

“I do, actually - I think it’s that book that’s always by him. It may be similar to the ones my brother and I carry, what with a bit of magic in it, but it’s possible his book is decaying his mind in some way.”

“I see. What was he like when you met him?” Laceless asked.

“Scared, same as you. But he was quite injured at the time. It’s quite a contrast to when I had battled him first, but all the same… Each time I had him on the ropes, I could not bring myself to finish him. That first time, Emperor had to rescue me and force the battle to a draw. This time, he was suffering, and I healed him up before I really knew what I was doing.” Prince replied.

“Oh- wow…” Lace replied. “Do you think, maybe… there’s a blank in your history with him? You look so alike, like a doppelganger.”

“I suspect the same - the best working theory I have is that He’s some sort of… similar opposite. I don’t know, I… I don’t know what I’d do if he was another part of my family. The best the locked gates in my mind offer are that most of my family led to pain. I don’t know what that could mean in this scenario. But… there is one lead I have yet to be able to follow effectively.” Prince explained.

With this, xey peruse through their stacks of books, eventually, carefully pulling out what xey were looking for.  The book with an illustration of three dragons on the cover, each looking as if they were sleeping peacefully. 

“A gold, a pink, and a red… that’s Emperor, you, and Regent. It has to be!” Laceless exclaimed, “What’s inside?!”

“That’s the problem.” Prince replied, “I cannot open it  myself. The pages do not unfurl for me alone.”

Xey turn the book to the back cover, revealing a message.

A special gift from a special witness - therein lies the dragon’s lost remembrance.

the three  they belong to might not but take this book  'i  their hands.  three claws, all presently.

only then shall the book share it’s secrets - and this is the only way to unlock sooth lying  'i  wait.

I only pray that thou shall be  'i  agreement.

-the watching maid

“Oh.” Lace replied, “How the hell are you guys supposed to do that?!”

“Well, there’s only one place to do it.” Prince replied, “The festival and its neutral ground. But something tells me that Regent’s corrupt side wants nothing to do with these memories, considering he burnt down the library this had been stored in.” 

“Geez…” Laceless sighed, “Then… maybe something like the apple trick will work, then? If not just for a second, so we can get answers…”

“We may need something stronger this time. And your presence may be suspicious, especially if he can smell the weakness potion you have.” Prince replied.

“Hmmm… do you think our court witch might be able to cook something up? If we could convince someone crazy enough to serve him punch spiked with it, do you think that could work?”

“Huh. Maybe. I wouldn’t be opposed.” 

“And- um- If I may be bold… how do you feel about having a spy on their side? I wouldn’t mind feeding you information like that, seeing what I could find out. I could make a big show if you’d like, and then…”

“Lace.” Prince replied, staring at him with wide, serpentine eyes, “Do you realize how dangerous that is? Regent could kill you with a flick of his tail.”

“W-well, to be fair, so could you. I trust you.” Lace said, fidgeting with his tail, “And… It might help Regent keep his good brain present, If someone keeps reaching out to him. You know? If he knows I won’t leave, maybe he’ll be okay. And again, wouldn’t intel from the main enemy be nice?”

The two stared at each other for a moment. Prince squinted. Laceless slowly began to shake, but did not back down. This continues until Laceless is shaking quite violently. Prince places a fin on his head, causing him to stop.

“Okay. You seem to be… really serious about this. I think. But you understand the danger, right?” Prince asked.

“I do.” Laceless replied, “And thinking about it… Imagine having a parasite in your brain that makes you hurt yourself and others, wanting it to stop, but not being able to get rid of it… I know I’d want someone trying for me. Maybe it’s what he needs to finally yank it out.”

“Maybe so.” Prince replied, gently lifting him from the coral shelf. “Let’s visit Leo first and foremost. That potion plan is the best we have, and then once Regent inevitably breaks off from everyone, you can show up to help him. That plan sound about right?”

“Y-yeah. Let’s go.” Laceless answered, nodding his head before swimming after Prince.

Some doors down, they reach Leo’s lab. The half-lionfish is fretting over his burners, his papers, everything - and is on the verge of a meltdown. This is kind of just the typical way things go for him.

“Ah!!!! My king, I’m sso sorry-”

“It’s fine, Leo.” Prince replied gently, “If you’re not too busy… can you concoct a strong corruption-banishing brew? Something that could, say, hide well in some punch? If that isn’t too tall an order…?”

“YYYyyyuuuuuhhhhhhhmmmmm…..” Leo trailed off, quickly looking to a bookshelf, pulling down some files, and flicking through paper after paper. “Y-yeah actually! Uuh, I think I can… J-just a minute. Maybe two so I can make it taste punchy…”

After some time and a couple exploding glass incidents, Leo produced a potion. “Here. uh… It’s got fast working time, just be very careful and don’t pop the cork until you’re pouring it in, after that potency time ticks down. All good? Ah- anything else??” he asked.

“That should be all. Thank you.” Prince replied, gingerly taking the potion and gently petting the witch’s head. “Feel free to take a break whenever you need, okay?”

“I-I’ll go grab that magic thingy you gave me.” Laceless said to Prince, “Call for me when it’s time to go, please!” 

“Of course. Prep well. I’ll take the book with me, and get in contact with my brother…”

…

Emperor: So… that’s the plan, then. Awfully dangerous.

Prince: I don’t think we’ve got much of a choice. We must do what we can. I’m thinking, we lie in wait for our guy to give him the potion, then approach a clearheaded dragon together. Are you in a state to do this?

Emperor: Of course I am. But… I am worried about the other half I am tied to. Have I told you about them?

Emperor, sitting at his throne spot at the end of a dining table, peers over his book to check on Gloves. The mothling was currently dining on some hoglin pork and other nether delicacies, not a care in the world. The other allies and servants that Emperor had over for dinner seemed to greatly enjoy Gloves’ company as well, sharing stories and overall making them feel welcome.

Prince: Other half?! What do you mean “Other half”?! Did i miss an invite to something???

Emperor: Nope, and it isn’t like that. You know one of Mothera’s children, Gloves, right? They’re here, in my realm. Their siblings tried to kill them, and unfortunately, through complications with this eased by Vendetta, half of my sway over this domain belongs to them now. Half my power.  Do you see how this could get dangerous now?

Prince: Crap :c 

Emperor: In fact… I do not wish to give them back to Mothera, honestly. Not at all. Especially if her children are being treacherous little… little…

Prince: you can write bastard

Emperor: Well i don’t want to

Emperor: point is, I don’t want Gloves leaving with me if I am to go. I am not going to let them leave. Even if it makes Mothera hunt me for sport, she can try. It will just Draconize her child and she’ll have a whole new layer of problem. And even then, I don’t have to tell her I have them =) 

Prince: Bro. let me be the first to say.

Prince: you’re stupid and that stupid will cause all of us problems.

Emperor: a bit harsh.

Prince: listen, even if you wanted to keep Gloves, what makes you think they want to be kept? If you are good friends, they will want to go with you. If you two are adverse, Gloves will very much make an escape. And you can’t just not come because I need you here to figure out Regent. Don’t you want that? It could lead to this war being over!!

Emperor: Regardless, I will not relent. Gloves will stay, but if they happen to make it out of what I set up for them, I shall station Pacer as an escort. I’ll have my court mage make them something so they can view the fest from my perspective if that can satiate them, but nothing more than that. They need to be safe.

Prince: you’re treating them more like a piece of your horde than a person, you know. At least talk to them about it - test the water and see if maybe they want to stay. Don’t just spring it because they’ll definitely bonk you one >:( 

Emperor: fine… I suppose I can warm them up to the idea.

He shuts his book, gently placing it back in his bag. Conversation Is lively, but Gloves does notice quickly that he’s ceased writing.

“So! How’s the broski doing?” Gloves asked with a casual smile.

“Xey are fine. Somewhat frustrating, but this is to be expected of little brothers.” Emperor replied with a sigh. “How is dinner? Is it to your liking?”

“Of course! All the stuff your chefs make really is amazing! I wish I could take a picture or something, but I left my dang camera back home…” at this, Gloves paused for a moment, thinking to themselves as they tapped their leg. “I wonder what the deal with my jerk siblings is, anyways… do you think it’d be safe to go back?”

“No.” Emperor replied instantly, earning a couple of looks from gloves and the rest of those at dinner, “I mean… I would of course protect you, if you were to go back, but… we really don’t know what the other demimoths want, let alone the means to stave off any surprise attacks. If you were to be attacked again, it would spell chaos, and if I were to somehow, say, fall to an ambush due to the others trying to get to you, the resulting power shifting to you, well… becoming a dragon is not a peaceful affair, that much I will tell.”

“Then what we really need is a plan!” Gloves replied, “How about a disguise? Or maybe a full force- no wait neutral territory thing sorry. How about… uh…”

“How would you feel about staying in the nether? As far as they know, you’re already dead. You’d be safe and protected with a world between us, and I can have court mages fix you up some surveillance so that you can survey the party… and perhaps tell on your rotten siblings with some magic modifications.” 

“Ooh.” Gloves replied, “That’s… actually kinda neat sounding. I would wanna show mom I’m okay in person and get to dance and stuff, but like. I dunno how to really use this half of the power you gave me that well yet, so I’m worried about running into my sibs before I can run into her. Plus I kiiiinda want to explore the castle some more?? The place is so big, I haven’t seen even half of it yet!”

At this, Emperor relaxed slightly. “All will be arranged. Honestly, I’m somewhat glad you’re staying here. And speaking of the palace, would you like to pick out your own room before I have to go?”

“Oh- sure- but why now? Your room’s cozy enough.” Gloves asks.

“Do you think your mother would be okay about that arrangement, or no?”

“Oh- yeah, she may get the wrong idea or something. She’s… uh… a little protective over me, you know? Youngest moth by 100 years give or take.”

“And thus we will be cautious and make sure there can be no misunderstanding about your treatment and comfort.” Emperor decided.

“Yah, fair. But if you're gonna go!!” Gloves said, before fluttering over and handing off the strange, magic device covering their ears, “these were a sun god gift to me - they're headphones, and I always use em for lots of stuff. Each of us mothlings got a different unique gift, so she'll know you're telling the truth.”

Emperor gently accepted them, and after a moment of consideration, placed them around his neck. “Thank you. I'll be sure to hide them in my bag before I go.”

Gloves smiled as they fluttered back a bit. “Stay safe, ok? And don't forget to lemme see what happens!”

Emperor smiled a bit. “You talk as if i leave right now. We still have some time together, you know.”

“Oh yeah, true!” Gloves replied, “show me the rooms you like!”

Chapter Text

Somewhere in the tundra, a secret-keeping watcher roamed the frozen cold.

Was he trying to get lost?

… maybe.

Cicadah had been welcomed into this far, cold land, despite the potential danger of their secret-giving. Weirdly, some of the lesser folks of the kingdom of Ice even built him a cute little cozy cottage home, just because they could.

It was nice!

…Until he found himself giving out secrets.

It was always something they did in a trance, if alerted of someone wanting more, or facing something that needed just a bit more power or resources outside their scope, he’d reach for his book without thinking, bestowing a secret task as if in a trance. And once it was done, he’d be kicking himself for being mezmerized by the void all those weeks ago. 

And now, he was doing what he could now to resist the call. Gathering up snow, chasing rabbits, entertaining himself by dancing. Ducking into a pile of soft snow to avoid anything that flew overhead. 

It was when he was making a snow angel that a familiar itch was felt at the back of their head. 

Cicadah, as a dimension-hopper, sometimes had these odd moments where he’d occupy more than one length of time in the world at once. This length was never that far in the future - often, these little premonitions were rather useless because they’d just happen immediately after he finished witnessing it. Net zero fate changing! And yet he couldn’t stop witnessing it.

And as the itch spread and dissipated, an overlay of what’s to come played into the greyish skies above.

He saw himself talking to a dragon -  Once called Watersplat, now called Fang, grabbing him by the collar of his hoodie and holding up her book.

“This isn’t enough. Give me a task that will strengthen this.” she demanded.

And that Cicadah would comply, writing her task: kill the red dragon within 24 hours. A strong, powerful secret, made by the will of those who the dragon’s forces had wronged. Secret desires of so many, it would give her the power she needed to steal the hearts of what she killed, surely.

She stared at the task, and paled before taking off immediately.

From there, he would wander back to town, quelling his feelings by building snow golems. The sense of dread bled into the now as the little snow soldiers popped up.

Then, the Cicadah before him heard some weird, grossish sound coming from his book bag.

 He pulled his book from the bag, and witnessed as it was not only regrowing some pages, but the cover was healing up, going back to the black and purple it had before. A new sparkle appeared on the cover, brighter and redder than the rest.

Fang… had failed her task. Fatally, it seemed.

Disgusted, the Cicadah in that vision had flung his book in anger. After a little fit that had the snow golems surrounding him, he picked himself back up and recovered the book.

He had some people to give the bad news to. He may as well have them view what happened with him.

The distant cicadah approached a tired Vintage and friends, and they all noticed his unhappy gaze, downward ears and limp tail dragging behind. He taps the red star, rousing it to share her last moments.

The target of her task was in sight, in the strange dark of night. She saw him, young for the tyrant he was, standing with two other dragons. Hesitance became clear, as the young dragon was uncharacteristically emotional. 

Once the other two dragons were away, Fang hyped herself up for the kill. Biting his head off while he was in his humanoid form would be a swift death for the creature - merciful and probably deserved, her thoughts echoed. It didn’t matter that he reminded her of her little brother Skull - it had not to matter.

She began to swoop, but hesitated once more as the red dragon glanced sadly her way. Once more she halted, pausing her assault.

“Do it already.” Regent told her, “I’m sick of hurting people. So hurry up.”

Fang breathed out a sigh. “Right. Of course.”

But hesitance held her heart still. Even as she raised to the peak of her strike, she was still slow.

And suddenly, Regent’s face changed. His eyes were bright and strange on black sclera.

Fang’s ears fill the room with the sound of thunder before she feels the pain of the impact. The memory ends in the moment of impact.

In the distant future of that room, all are shocked to silence. And of course, once he gains his senses, the Vintage in that room turns into his dragon form and tries to maul Cicadah for giving her the task at all. He doesn’t blame him.

He doesn’t even get to see if being harmed works before the dream of the future comes to a close. 

All at once, Cicadah’s senses snapped back to now, and he rose from the ground, glancing around quickly. Maybe if he went a bit further in the forest, he could avoid Fang?

But at that thought, a hand landed on his shoulder. He turned to meet her gaze.

She grabbed him by the collar, holding up her book. “This isn’t enough.” she growled with barely a greeting, “Give me a task to strengthen it. Now.”

Despite how he didn’t want to, Cicadah’s hands worked against him, wrote those words, and stamped it in blood before handing it off. Fang snatched the paper, read it, and turned.

“You’re damn impossible with these things, you know.” Fang growled.

“Yeah. don’ mean to be.” Cicadah replied. “And Fang?”

“What?” Fang asked.

Cicadah gave her a quick hug. He hated the scratchy feel of the sweater she wore, but still held tight. After all, it was all he could change about this dumb situation.

“Farewell!” Cicadah told her.

She shoved him off before flying away. She said nothing, but he could’ve swore he saw a wave.

The changeling sighed, breath fogging in the cold air. 

 He’d miss that subtle taste of care that came from her.

…It really wasn’t fair, this role he was given.

Face down in the cold snow, the changeling battled back their dread of the day to come. 

He missed being unimportant. Silly meaninglessness was much more what he liked. 

His role seriously lacked the love he enjoyed the taste of. It always ended with that flavor of mistrust or hatred, something he’d no doubt receive from Fang’s friends and family.

…worst of all, the nature of what he is. Cicadah finds it impossible to explain it to people, that he physically can’t stop himself from writing. What he does is such a bummer.

Well, if he can’t stop himself, he wonders… was there a way to add his usual spin? The meaningless silliness he loved? If he let himself write, would be able to give people harmless, silly secrets to complete?

… he could only hope.

Face down in the snow, he quietly curses the god that shackled him with this book.

“Hope I’m boring the heck outta ya.” Cicadah mumbled into the snow.

Chapter Text

Floating on the waves, Goggles and his friends were ever closer to the festival - just a few more hours before they hit the shores of Mothera's territory. 

In the meantime, all red banners were cut loose, replaced with blue, yellow-green, and magenta ones, with a couple yellow, gold and silver ones thrown in the mix. It almost looked like a party boat!

As Mitsuami placed the last one, she backed up into Vel, who had been watching her quietly.

“Ah!! U-uh- hi-!” Mitsuami greeted them.

“Hello.” Vel greeted. “I was wondering… what do your banners mean?”

Mitsuami shifted a bit as she thought. “Oh- well- there's- there's a lot of guys here with different colors, right? I-i see lots of blue on some, green on others- s-so i made some banners to replace the red dragon ones… uh… d-do you g-guys want one?”

Vel considered it for a moment, before they answered, “Maybe… just a purple and red. For Xavier and I. You don't have to make it big. You can even do something plain black if you can't think of a good design. It's fine either way.”

“G-got it… um… by the way…” Mitsuami began, looking over Vel cautiously, “I… couldn't help but notice you… um. Carry a um… black… book.”

Vel nodded, absently touching the spot it dangled from at their hip.

“A-and there were no people… on the ship. Before us…” Mitsuami continued.

Vel nodded again.

“Did you… maybe… i dunno…” Mitsuami spoke, getting quieter and quieter, “have… something to do with that…? Maybe?”

Vel stared at her quietly for a moment. They tilted their head to and fro for a bit as they thought, ever staring down at the quivering Mitsuami. 

“It's quite interesting that you ask that. Considering Xavier and I were caged…” Vel replied tentatively.

“Mhm…” Mitsuami agreed, “but with something like that… y-you don't need to be out of the cage, do you…?”

“Suppose not.” Vel replied.

After a moment, Vel reached out, and gently pat her head.

“What my book does… that's not for any of you.” Vel reassured her, “I took my revenge. Those that had hurt me… can't anymore. They were the only exception for this book's ire, and I will no longer use it unless self defense is necessary. Besides, I don't need magic to defend myself. If an adversary comes along, I just kill them with my bare hands or a sword. As you do.”

“Oh! Great!!!!!” Mitsuami replied, smiling through her fear, “I-I’m gonna go make those banners now bye!!!”

Mitsuami ran for below deck as fast as she could. Vel watched her go… and then noticed a certain, mopey blue-haired boy lingering by the doorway.

“Oh. Hey.” Vel greeted him. “Are you… faring any better? I heard what happened from the serpent.”

Goggles shrugged. Vel definitely noticed the book in his hands as he fidgeted.

“There's been just… too much to deal with.” Goggles replied, “I mean, I wanna keep everyone's spirits up, like i always do!! But…”

“It's alright if you don't have it in you.”  Vel replied, “Nobody’s required to be any set way. Is there anything I can offer you?”

Goggles shrugged, coming a bit closer. “I can't really think right now. Maybe we could just talk?”

Vel nodded, patting the gunwale. “It's as good a time as any to, while we watch the waves roll by.” 

Goggles joined them, and the two leaned on the gunwale together, watching the waves.

 “So. What do you want to talk about?” Vel asked.

“I just wonder… is every Watcher cursed in some way…?” Goggles asked.

“Perhaps.” Vel replied, letting a hand dangle off the side. “How could you tell something afflicted me?” 

“Well you drool whenever someone gets a cut. And then jump in the water to kill a fish with your teeth before climbing back aboard. Plus you look like a vampire, no offense.” Goggles answered.

“None taken. I prefer bluntness.” Vel replied. “Do you want to know more about it?”

Goggles nodded. Vel smiled slightly.

“Of course. Well, Once upon a time, in a far off land where the world breaks, and the water runs red… I was born, and given to those that worship blood and bodies. They loved it so much, they were cursed to feed from every kill. They passed this curse onto me, and deepened it's hold as much as they could - the monster I become was useful to them in the right circumstances, with wings like that of a dragon, paws sharper than a polar bear's, poison stronger than anything a witch can brew, and a blood-red mane to match.

I was not a person - just the embodiment of their chosen fate. The ultimate of what their bloodlust could be. Every time i starved i would change. My work would bring them riches.

One day, as I was doing their bidding on my own, I was approached by a charming trader - he offered me payment to protect him, and on a whim, I accepted the contract.

From that day on, I rode with Xavier. He taught me what it means to be my own person, the best ways to survive out in those cursed lands, and… a few other things.

But the assassins i was trained under caught wind. They didn't quite like that i had found a friend. They restrained me, and took him away. Killed him with cursed blades.

And, as you do, I went on a frenzy. It seemed like they wanted a monster, so I showed them exactly what they wanted of me. Some got away at first.

When i came back, Xavier was still cold. So i wandered off to bury him. And i kept digging, digging, digging down… until my pick hit bedrock.

But something was broken within me. So i kept trying to dig. Even if he were so far above me in the glass i put him in, i didn't stop. Even as my hunger changed me, i simply dug with my claws.

And just like that, it gave way to the void.”

Goggles stared in awe. “Woah… how'd you get back up? And how did Xavier keep his brains???”

“Well, in meeting the maiden and seizing my book, it took me many dreams to get back to a proper “somewhere” so to speak. The withermaiden found me interesting enough to conduct several games. Ten years worth, to be precise. As for Xavier… well, when I was returned to the surface… he found me. He was quite injured, and he didn't want to talk about what happened. I couldn't walk after being out for so long, so he dragged me out of my bedrock hole and took care of me.” Vel explained.

“Oh, wow… how many do you have, then?” Goggles asked.

Goggles pulled out his book, and Vel brought theirs up. Both their books shimmered with hundreds.

“Did you use yours to power yourself?” Vel asked.

Goggles shook his head. “I didn't want to. I fractured instead, so i think… whoever has one of these like mine, they um… they were all involved in the dreams. Only them each time, all just these… different versions. I think a lot of them went to keeping me alive, because i kinda… got trapped in a tear in reality for a bit? Or something. I had no choice about the dreams, because like 15 shadows were in charge. They had to keep me alive to stay stable.”

Vel nodded in understanding. They leaned in close and said, “if I am being honest… i do not like the aspect of death games. I don't understand how they benefit you-know-who, but they must in some way. Nothing comes for free, especially from so-called gods.” 

Goggles nodded in agreement. “She says it's for entertainment. But… We're all being compelled to go to the fest, aren't we? Is it really to meet my other shadows, or… is she going to do something with us? I mean, you're not fractured. You're compelled to go, right?”

Vel nodded. “We shouldn't speak aloud much, though. We are eyes, aren't we? She's had eons to study lips even if she can't hear.” 

“Maybe… but y’know the cod girl, Mitsuami?” Goggles said, gesturing to the small, mobile creature napping in a bucket of towels, “Kojake here - she calls him a little god. We might be safe if we just keep these talks near one another. I mean, at least my eyes feel a bit less fuzzy around him, if you know what i mean?”

Vel stared at Kojake, blinking slowly a few times. “Hm. There is… a weird difference. Good observation.” 

“Not only that, but she kinda drew the truth out of me, too.” Goggles explained. “So, i dunno, maybe i feel a bit safer thinking about that.”

Vel nodded agreeingly. “In any case, that gives me some room to say this: let's form an alliance.”

“Aliens? What's that?” Goggles asks.

“It means you and I work together for a goal - in this case, it would be to figure out Wither-Maiden's goals. I could teach you how to fight, and you could teach me something you're proficient in. We share notes pertaining to our goal whenever possible. Is that a good idea, do you think?”

“Sure!” Goggles agreed excitedly, “I know lots of recipes! I'll show you some awesome soup my gran used to make!!”

Vel smiled, holding out a hand. Goggles grabbed and shook it.

“Perfect deal to me.” Vel replied, “let me know when you'd like to train. I do boar spears, zweihanders, all sorts of swords and bows.”

“Can you do tridents? Scythes??”

“Tridents, of course. Scythes… somewhat impractical, but I've yet to be bested when using one for combat. Let's spar and see your level of expertise.”

…

Rider arose from slumber a bit late today - being on the sea made him feel unsteady, so he felt comfortable in sleeping in. The longer he slept, the more time he spent away from sea sickness. 

Rising up and yawning, he slithered out into the halls below deck, rummaging through a chest in the storage room for some glowberry juice. Once he got his drink, he slithered for the top deck. In the covered doorway by the top of the steps, Xavier was observing something happening on the deck, idly eating some rotten zombie flesh.

“Why’re you eating that?” Rider asked him.

“Mornin’ to you too.” Xavier replied, “It doesn’t do anything to me, so I figured I could get rid o’ the useless stuff. By the way, your blue-haired buddy’s a pretty fast learner when it comes to fightin’, isn’ he?”

“Is he?” Rider says, and rises to the top step to peer out.

Over on that sunlit deck, Goggles and Vel were sparring. Goggles had real weapons, while Vel was using sticks. Vel would shout out instructions to him, how to balance himself on the bobbing floor and some fast praise if Goggles nearly got a hit on them.

Goggles was moving quicker than Rider had ever seen him move before. It was kind of scary that Vel could match, and even out-speed him at this pace.

“Woah…” Rider muttered in awe.

“Yep. took me years to be half as good as dear Vel ova there, n’ that guy’s gotten close to stabbin’ em seven times already. Crazy stuff.” Xavier said. It definitely seemed more like he was boasting about Vel’s prowess.

Even so, Rider was a bit proud of Goggles. Nervous about why he was training so hard, but… proud.

He leaned on the other side of the doorway, doing his best to focus on watching the match and finishing his drink.

It wasn’t even that Goggles was using just a sword - he’d rapidly swap between different things, an ax, a large hammer, even a small dagger. Vel would dodge and parry attacks swiftly, replacing their stick just as swiftly if it snaps at any point. They’d even jab at Goggles to knock him back a bit so they could recover. Both were sweltering under the heat, but neither gave in.

And as Vel swings at Goggles to push him back, Goggles ducks under the swipe. They adjust to swing down at him, but they don't expect Goggles to drop and roll as he swaps weapons again. 

Vel is off balance, so much so that they can’t recover in time as he takes aim.

Fwoosh- POW!

The blue firework hits dead center, exploding in Vel’s face and knocking them flat.

“I… I did it…!” Goggles panted, drenched and completely exhausted.

Xavier was so shocked, his mouth hung ajar for a good while.

“Good… job…” Vel panted tiredly, definitely sore from the blow, “I don’t recall giving that to you, though…”

“Aw, sorry… about that…! You told me before it’s good to surprise your enemy, so I thought the crossbow hhive gavehg- URK-” Goggles’ explanation devolved into a lot of coughing as they spoke, his chest cavity now groaning in protest too as it coughed out globs of sculk, staining the white shirt Goggles was wearing. 

“Owch…” Vel muttered.

Xavier picked his jaw up finally and rummaged in his bag for the straw hat he was given earlier. “Looks like we should go n’ peel em’ off the deck now, eh?” 

And as he looked up, Rider was already by Goggles’ side, helping to pick the poor fellow up. Xavier smiled, and then rushed over to Vel to go and give them one of his emergency health potions that he keeps to the side for them.