Chapter Text
Tango’s nerves were fried. Instead of getting better, Jimmy got worse and worse. He kept having coughing fits, started to feel more stiff and could barely move. His complexion got paler and dark circles appeared underneath his eyes. The choking on his breath had made it difficult to get a good night’s sleep and he was exhausted.
Tango wasn’t off much better. He too hardly slept, too worried for Jimmy. fWhip had given him the week off when he noticed Tango’s exhaustion. He had wondered and Tango explained. For a moment the netherborn had been worried for a nasty comment on Jimmy’s state, but fWhip had sighed and told him to go and take care of the Sheriff.
While keeping his eyes on Jimmy, Tango helped around Tumble Town. Sitting still would only drive him mad. Even the town’s people had seemed to accept his presence. Chris had vaguely mentioned it being because they knew what he meant to their Sheriff and someone important to the Sheriff is a person to be respected.
Tango had felt all warm and fuzzy inside, taking it as a huge compliment. He received smiles and greetings as he walked through town and for the first time he felt at home. Straitening his back, he looked over the train tracks towards Scar and Grian. The other Hermit had come to visit Tumble Town to tease Timmy, but once he heard how unwell the other was, he stayed to help out.
Tango smiled, remembering how Scar’s face had lit up when Gian had mentioned staying. The man was so smitten, he really had it bad. Even now, he was only a couple of feet away from Grian, occasionally looking up, no so subtly checking the other out. Tango shook his head, luckily he didn’t act like a puppy when he had a crush on someone.
The door to the Ranch creaked as it opened, revealing the Sheriff. Tango had made him rest when the coughing had gotten worse after doing some labour. The blonde seemed well rested as he fixed the hat on top of his head. A smile appeared on his face as their eyes met. By the Void, did Jimmy always manage to make butterflies flutter in his stomach. He just looked so stunning as the sunlight hit him just right. Just one smile aimed at him and Tango could melt.
Okay, maybe Scar wasn’t the only love-sick idiot here.
Tango could vaguely picture Chris rolling her eyes and telling him to get to him and smooch the Sheriff silly. He blushed slightly as he pictured Jimmy’s lips on his. He wouldn’t mind that in the slightest. The netherborn had subconsciously moved towards the building, closer to Jimmy. Unfortunately, he had moved close enough to see Jimmy’s content smile shift to an expression of discomfort, closely followed by a cough.
Then another cough, and another, as Jimmy clasped his hand over his mouth to stifle them. His knees buckled and he fell to the floor, the hand moving to his chest, gripping his shirt. Eyes widened in terror, unfocused gaze on the floorboards as he struggled to take a breath. Tango moved quickly towards him. “Jimmy!” he called out, frightened. Worried eyes met widened ones as Jimmy tried to speak. Before Tango could reach him, he disappeared into thin air, leaving items and particle effects behind.
[SolidarityGaming suffocated.]
“Timmy?!” Grian’s voice rang through town, echoing in the silence. Tango barged through the front door, knowing for a fact that Jimmy respawned in the Ranch. He had been snuggling with him in the one bed, before going out to do chores. As he entered the bedroom, he spotted the Sheriff on the ground beside the bed. He was trashing as he still struggled to breath.
“T-Tango!”
The netherborn’s heart broke at hearing the terror in Jimmy’s voice as he called out to him. “C-can’t breathe,” he wheezed out,” C-cotton…” Tango was at his side in a second, unsure of what to do. He tried to clop gently on his back to help ease whatever was blocking Jimmy’s airway. The blonde grasped at Tango’s arms, nails digging into his skin. Their eyes met once more, before Tango was left staring at particles again. A message appeared in general chat.
[SolidarityGaming suffocated while trying to escape TangoTek.]
Several confused and worried messages followed. Not a second later, Jimmy respawned on the bed and tumbled out of it. Tango’s reflexes were quick enough to catch Jimmy in his arms, keeping him from hitting the floor. The blonde trashed, mouth agape in a silent scream, eyes closed tightly. Tango grabbed his hand, squeezing tightly.
“Jimmy, breath, please!” he pleaded desperately. He could feel the man shudder, gasping in air. “I don’t know how to help,” he said, tears pricking in the corners of his eyes. He blinked them away, too focused on Jimmy’s chest falling and rising. He could feel Jimmy breath, albeit a bit difficult. It didn’t seem like he couldn’t get any air, which calmed him only slightly. Tango’s hold tightened, making the Sheriff hat slip off of Jimmy’s head. He kissed the tussled locks, trying to calm his own panicked breaths.
After a moment, he felt the blonde go slack and his heart stopped for a second. He checked him over, but Jimmy’s breathing had evened out, no longer struggling. His eyes were still closed and Tango could spot the tear-tracks on the other’s cheeks. He reluctantly let go of Jimmy’s hand, to wipe the tears away. The other nuzzled into his touch, keeping his hand on his cheek.
“Oh Timmy…”
Tango simultaneously almost jumped to the ceiling, while pulling Jimmy closer to him and letting out an involuntary hiss. His instincts were screaming at him to protect what was his. He had not noticed the arrival of Grian and Scar, who had been standing in the doorway. Tango looked up and Scar took a step backwards in shock. Grian seemed to brace himself as he stepped closer.
“We’re here to help, not to hurt him,” the smaller said, hands raised in surrender. Tango’s gaze shifted from Scar to Grian, who slowly got closer. He wondered for a moment why the other looked so cautious, when he noticed how tightly he was clutching Jimmy to his chest. He could smell burned ash in the air and he noticed how his hair was aflame and he breathed out smoke. Grian gave him a nod, noticing the other coming back to himself.
“It’s alright,” he said,” He’s safe with you.” He kneeled beside the pair, hands hovering over Jimmy’s body. Tango shuddered. Was he? Tango had been unable to help his soulmate. He could only watch him suffer. The netherborn took some deep breaths, calming himself and his flames. He released his death grip on Jimmy, letting Grian get close. The smaller quickly looked him over, letting out a breath he had been holding.
“He seems alright for now,” he muttered,” knocked out by exhaustion.” Scar stepped forward, placing a hand on Tango’s shoulder. “We’ve put his stuff in a chest downstairs,” the man said softly. Tango nodded, trying to him them a grateful smile. They decided to move Jimmy to the bed, tucking him in.
It took a lot of convincing from Grian and Scar physically pushing him out of the room to get the netherborn to leave Jimmy’s side. They sat in silence for a moment. “Wha-,” Tango cleared his throat,” What does it mean when somebody says ‘cotton’ while choking to death?” Grian gave him a shocked look. “Timmy’s got cotton in his lungs?” the frown turned into a look of extreme worry.
Scar hummed thoughtfully. “That reminds me of a story I’ve once heard,” he said, gaining the other’s attention,” tho it wasn’t quite cotton, but something else. Something grew inside the other’s lungs and they couldn’t breathe… water, was it?” He looked confused. “Or was that the other story where they got turned into water…?”
“I have never heard of this story, but maybe we can investigate,” Grian said,” who knows? Maybe we’ll find some answers to Timmy’s illness.” Tango nodded. He was desperate to look for anything that could help his rancher. Anything. “I uhh- I think I heard it during bonfire night,” Scar stuttered,” Chris will probably know it!” Scar had a small hopeful grin. “What are we waiting for?” Tango said,” Let’s go find her!”
When they were looking for Chris, Tango had to keep from thinking too much, growing desperate n the feeling of being lost. It seemed farfetched, chasing Fairytales, but it was all they had to go off from, so they had to try. Grian shot him a side glance, silently asking him if he was alright. Tango wasn’t sure how he felt.
They spotted Chris near the Barn, talking to some villagers. When she noticed the trio, she greeted them with a tip of her head and a smile. “How’s the sheriff?” she asked. The 3 shared a silent look as her smile fell. “…That bad?” Gone was her relaxed stance as she carefully eyed the men in front of her.
“I’m not going to lie,” Grian said,” He’s really sick. And we have no idea what’s causing it.” Chris nodded. “But we may have a lead to something… something that seems similar to Timmy’s illness.” He said so with air quotes. “It has something to do with an old legend? About somebody getting changed into something else, or something caught in their lungs?”
Chris hummed as she took a moment to think. “Oh, you mean the Tales of Thylentia?” she asked,” It’s about 2 lovers and a jealous God.” Scar nodded enthusiastically and Chris gestured for them to sit down. As they stelled on the ground, she cleared her throat and started to tell the story.
“There once were 2 lovers, Galanth and Briaan. They both lived in the lands of Thylentia, happy as could be. They didn’t know about the Gods above, including Jael, who looked over the lands. Jael was jealous of their relationship, he wanted to be worshipped. Him and him alone. So he lured Galanth to the waters, away from Briaan, he told him he could be ne with the sea. Galanth was a sailor, he loved the sea. But Briaan was afraid of the unruly waters, he never got close.
Jael kept whispering to Galanth, filling his head, to be one with the sea, he told him he was the sea. He told him he was the waters and the waves. Slowly, Galanth felt himself chance. He started to feel like he was drowning on land, his lungs filling with water. He became unable to move, seeing his limps turn into liquid. Briaan could do nothing but watch as his love suffered. He took him to sea, where Galanth turned into seafoam and slipped from Briaan’s grasp. Jael, the God, had told Galanth he was the sea, so he had become the waters. Because whatever a God says, goes. Humans, like Briaan can make laws, but God, like Jael, can speak them. And so goes the tale, about fearing Gods and losing loves.”
It was silent for a moment, letting the story sink in. “Well, that’s all I know, if you want to hear more stories like that, you should ask Emperor Scott,” Chris said,” The legend is of Chromia’s origin.” They shared a look. Maybe Scott would know how to help them. “Thank you for your help,” Tango said, standing back up. “I’m not sure what I helped with, but you’re welcome…”
“Can I ask for one more favour?” Tango asked, nervously running his hand through his hair. Chris nodded. “Could you please check in with Jimmy now and then?” She gave him a smile. “I will keep an eye out, you can leave him in my care,” she said, placing a hand on Tango’s shoulder.
“So… off to Chromia?” Scar asked, dusting off his pants. Grian nodded as he stood up as well. They said their goodbyes to Chris, who suggested they take the horses. She waved at them as they took off, racing towards the Empire to dye for.
Scott was unsurprisingly surrounded by llama’s as they found him in Chromia. “Hey,” the colourful man greeted,” what brings you all here?” The welcoming smile on his face slipped away as he took in the various grim expressions. “What do you know about the Tales of Thylentia? Is it true?” Grian asked, looking very serious. Scott thought for a moment.
“It is a very well-known story here in Chromia,” he said,” and there have been events that led to believe the story isn’t entirely fiction.” Tango froze in place, a shiver running down his spine. “You mean there’s been more cases like the story?” Scott nodded. “People had their body’s chance, mind controlled or gone insane on several occasions. It’s all been documented in the archives,” he explained,” there’s another story, quite similar, from not too long ago. Where someone got turned to stone because he went against the Gods.”
The others kept silent, so he continued. “He went against the laws of the land, stealing and committing arson. The law stated he be punished, stoned. Yet, the Gods had other plans and twisted the law, they turned him into a statue. Het got turned into stone, so quite literally ‘stoned’.” His visitors shared a look of terror, making Scott fall silent.
“What’s going on?” he asked, slight fear could be heard in his voice. “Tango?” Scott looked directly at the netherborn, hoping that it didn’t have to do with the fact that the Sheriff was not among them. Tango’s eyes were fixated on the ground in front of his feet. “Tango? Where’s Jimmy?” Scott asked, stepping towards the other.
“He- he’s very ill,” Tango said, finally looking up at Scott,” he’s been coughing a lot, his body kept aching and he’s been suffering respawns due to chocking to death.” Scott let out a startled sound. “So that’s what that was about...” he whispered, his eyes wide,” How-?”
“We don’t know,” Grian said,” The last time he was choking he mentioned cotton in his lungs.” Tango nodded solemnly. He was happy Jimmy had friends in the Empires that cared about him, but he was still slightly bitter about the fact that nobody had noticed something was wrong with the Sheriff. He tried not to dwell on his anger, but he found it easier to deal with than the insane worry and fear he was feeling as well. Even tho he knew Jimmy was good at hiding his problems, he had experienced it first hand, so he couldn’t quite blame the colourful man before him.
Scott gasped, a hand covering his mouth. “Jimmy’s got cotton in his lungs?” Grian nodded. The ‘oh no’ that slipped out of Scott’s mouth as he immediately took off to gather his things and pull put his communicator, did not make Tango feel any better.
“Take me to him,” Scott demanded,” I need to see him.” Scar nodded and got back on his horse, offering Scott his hand to help him up. “W-what?” Tango asked, fear overtaking him. Grian squeezed his shoulder, then pushed him towards his horse. “I’ll explain on the way,” Scott promised,” but we need to get going. Or we might be too late.”
They didn’t need to hear more to spring into action, spurring their horses on to run as fast as they could. After a bit of travel and Scott putting away his communicator, Tango held back to be able to talk to Scott. “Please tell me why I feel like Jimmy’s in danger?” Scott tired his best to keep his expression neutral, holding onto Scar for dear life.
“Because he is.”
Tango’s heart dropped, the voice in the back of his head screaming at him for failing to protect his soulmate. “Who’s to blame?” Scar asked, a dangerous tone in his voice. Scott sighed. “I’m afraid it’s Joel,” he muttered loud enough for the others to hear,” He’s been calling Jimmy a toy for quite some while now, I’m afraid it’s altering him…”
“You mean that Timmy is turning into a real toy?!” Grian shouted. Scott just nodded, a faraway look in his eyes. After a bit, Tumble Town came into view. “I’ve asked Great Witch Shelby to help out, she should be here already,” Scott said as they slowed down. He and Tango jumped off of their horses, leaving Scar and Grian to deal with them, as they rushed into the house.
When they neared the bedroom, voices could be heard. Entering the room, they spotted Chris standing in a corner, hand sin her hair, and Shelby, who stood close to the bed. The Witch was helping the Sheriff drink a potion, muttering softly. When Jimmy started to cough harshly, she cursed. Scott unfroze first, making his way over to Shelby. Tango moved to the other side of the bed.
“I-I’m trying everything I can!” Shelby cried. Tango could now spot the tears in her eyes. “It’s not working! I can’t reverse the effects.” Jimmy gasped loudly, eyes wide in panic, searching. His eyes met Tango’s and he seemed to relax some. He took a deep breath as Tango reached out to grab his hand. And even tho he was clearly in pain, a smile appeared on his lips. Tango couldn’t help but give him a watery smile back.
“H-Hi,” Jimmy breathed out. “Hi,” Tango said softly. His eyes roamed over Jimmy’s body, noticing all the weird stitches that seemed to run over his limps. His skin had made way for soft fabric and his cheeks were painted a permanent rosy colour. A tear rolled down Tango’s cheek as he looked back into Jimmy’s eyes.
“I-it’s Joel,” Tango stuttered,” his words are changing you into a t-toy.” It felts so bad, saying it out loud. Jimmy squeezed his hand. “I-,” he sighed,” I know.” Tango looked shocked and hurt. “Why didn’t you tell me?” he whispered. “I-I hoped,” Jimmy paused,” I hoped it wasn’t so. I couldn’t tell Joel, he doesn’t mean it.” He coughed harshly. “H-He doesn’t mean to, I know he doesn’t.”
Tango cried as he placed a hand on Jimmy’s cheek. “But he’s taking you away from me,” he hiccupped,” Why couldn’t you be selfish for once?!” His outburst left a silence in its wake. Jimmy’s smile didn’t waver as he looked at his soulmate, taking it all in. “Because you wouldn’t want me any other way,” he whispered.
He wanted to add more, but another coughing fit took over. His lips were parted in harsh pants. Tango sat on the side of the bed, clutching Jimmy’s hand like a lifeline, the other wiping away the sheriff’s tears. Jimmy’s gaze shifted to Scott, a watery smile on his face.
“T-Thanks for being a friend.”
Scott smiled, yet frowned. “don’t say it like it’s a goodbye,” he muttered,” We’re working on a cure.” He shot Shelby a desperate look. The Witch merely shook her head. “And you,” Jimmy said, gaze back on Tango,” Thank you for everything.” Tango gasped as he tried his best to smile. “You heard Scott, we’re going to cure you.” Jimmy coughed.
“Here I was, always thinking you were the one to take my breath away,” the blonde said, trying to raise his other hand. Tango grasped it as well, holding them close to his chest. He shook his head. Leave it to Jimmy to make jokes at times like this.
“I love you,” Jimmy said, clear as day,” my Rancher.”
The smile stayed as Jimmy’s eyes glossed over, turning to glass. The hands held in Tango’s became boneless and soft. Tango bumped their foreheads together, desperately looking for something that was no longer there. He was met with no resistance and no soft breaths to mingle with his.
The sheriff had stopped breathing.
Tango couldn’t breathe.
He didn’t dare. He could only stare and stare and stare.
His eyes only left Jimmy’s lossy ones as Scott leaned over to close his eyelids. The colourful man took off his hat and stood silent. After a moment, Tango could hear him and the Witch step away. Hushed voices sounded, but Tango was unable to understand what they were saying. He was unable to move, to get up. He kept staring at his soulmate.
His love, his Rancher His Jimmy.
But he no longer looked back. Suddenly, all he could feel was rage. An all-consuming rage, making him see red and put his hair aflame. Barely aware of where he was, he pushed himself up and away. He barged through the doorway, through Gain and Scar who stood there frozen. He barrelled through the front door, ignoring the shouts from behind him.
As he felt his flames grow and overtake him, he fell on his knees. A pained scream ripped from his throat as he burst into flames. He screamed to the heavens, to the supposed God who took his love from him. He screamed until he could no more. His flames sissled out, and he sagged.
All energy left his body as he felt the tears stream freely. He slowly became aware of his surroundings, noticing the scorch marks in the red sand beneath him. Then his unfocused gaze shifted to the group of town’s people who had gathered around to watch his meltdown. Chris and Scar were busy getting them all to leave and go home. He could vaguely hear them ask questions, which Chris promised to answer as soon as she possibly could.
He then noticed Grian, his heart breaking more. The smaller stood alone, unsure of how to handle himself, looking so incredibly lost and in need of comfort. At the mutters of Scott and Shelby, and the mentioning of Joel, Tango felt his anger resurface. He started to cuss out and scream at the God, swinging his fists at the ground in anger.
He felt arms wrap around him, keeping him in place and he started to bang his fists against the chest in front of him. “It’s unfair!” he screamed,” Why him? How dare he?!” Scar simply held him close, not letting up as Tango worked through his anger. “It’s not all lost,” he said,” We can get him back.”
Tango sagged against the other, sobbing. “He was mine to hold and he took him away from me,” he sobbed,” the love of my life, my Rancher…” Scar rocked them as Tango let it all out. “We’ll get him back, I promise,” the other said,” I’ll kill him if I have to.”
Tango felt another pair of arms wrap around him and he felt the other Hermit sob. Seeing Grian’s grief and tear-streaked face, broke his heart into little pieces and he pulled the other close. Scar shielded them from all the wondering eyes and slowly guided them inside, not letting go of them. Scott and Shelby joined them, Scott’s arms around Shelby’s shoulders. Scar seated them on the couch, one arm wrapped around Grian and the other holding Tango. He let them weep into his shoulder, he’d worry about a ruined shirt later on.
They would come up with a plan for action later on. For now, they cried. For now, they would mourn their friend and soulmate. They kept hope in their hearts, wondering if they’d ever see Jimmy’s smile and the sparkle in his eyes again.
-----------------------------------------------
Chris softly closed the door behind her, leaning against it. A hand rubbed over her face, feeling the fatigue take over. She just spend the last hours informing the people of Tumble Town what had happened to their Sheriff. She could hardly wrap her head around what had happened, functioning on adrenaline only. She was exhausted.
Hands in hers pulled her away from the door, softly tugging her close to a body. A blush appeared on her cheeks as she recognised the other as the Great Witch Shelby. The woman gave her a tired smile as she hugged her close. Chris sighed and squeezed her tight before letting go.
They walked into the living room, where the others were seated. Her eyes landed on Tango, who sat silently in the windowsill. “How is he?” she asked softly. “Coping,” Scott answered. Chris nodded and went to sit down, mindful of the pair already there. Scar still held Grian close, the smaller seated on his lap, eyes screwed close as he slept. Shelby appeared, coming out of the kitchen, a tray in her hands. She gave everybody a glass of what appeared to be tea, placing Tango’s near him on the table.
Tango spared a glance at the teacup, before he looked out of the window again. Grian softly groaned as Scar tried to wake him up. The smaller mumbled something about a bad dream and the others felt their hearts clench painfully as they were reminded of the fact that it was not a nightmare, but reality. Scar offered Grian his teacup, who sleepily took it and took a sip.
“So, what’s the plan?” Chris asked, taking a sip as well. “I don’t believe we have one,” Scar said grimly. Scott shot Shelby a look. “Actually,” the Witch said,” There might be a way we can bring him back.” All eyes, including Tango’s, were on her. “I’ve been doing some research,” she explained,” And I came across a documentary that mentioned this particular… curse…” she felt a bit insecure when saying so, as if she was implying that her kind, Witches, would put such a curse on others. But what else could she call it? It certainly wasn’t a blessing.
“It said something about the person affected, changed, getting reverted. Changed back to who they were.” That got Tango’s attention. It made him feel a bit of hope. If it worked for that one person, who’s to say it wouldn’t work for Jimmy? “They needed the grace of the God who cursed them. They’re the ones that can reverse the spell,” Shelby explained,” The one time it worked, the Goddess had unwittingly changed the person into a sunflower.”
“The man had adored the Goddess, did everything for her and in her name. the Goddess felt great adoration for the man and called him her little sunflower. And so, he slowly began to change. He turned into a sunflower. Realising what she had done, she wept and took her words back, making him human again.”
“So, what you’re saying is that we have to get Joel to take his words back?” Scar asked, brows furrowed. “…I guess?” Shelby shrugged. “Great, I can break his nose while we’re there.” Tango hopped off of the windowsill, expression an angry scowl.
“Tango,” Scott said with a warning, earning him a glare,” we can’t even be sure Joel is aware of his actions.” The netherborn shrugged. “I don’t care, he took Jimmy away from me,” he hissed. “And he took my friend,” Scott snapped,” But Joel is my friend too.” Tango glared daggers at him, but Scott was unimpressed, standing to stare him down. “I’m sure he is just as shocked as us, when we tell him. I’m sure he didn’t mean to hurt Jimmy.”
Tango adverted his eyes, letting Scott win their little stare down. “Fine,” he hissed,” but only because it might bring Jimmy back.” Scar stood, gently making Grian slip off of his lap, to stand by Tango’s side. “We will bring him back,” he said, placing a hand on Tango’s shoulder. “We will,” Grian agreed, standing as well. “We can do this,” Shelby said jumping up from her seat. “Am I supposed to stand up and say something positive as well?” Chris asked, one eyebrow raised.
The others shot her a look and she shrugged. She downed her cup of tea and stood as well. “But for real, let’s do this,” she said with a crooked smile,” For the Sheriff.” Silence fell upon the group, all standing in a circle. “Well, this is awkward,” Chris laughed and moved to take the empty cups to the kitchen. “It’s time for action,” scar grinned, a bit too excited. “Agreed,” Tango muttered. “I better come along,” Scott said, eyeing the netherborn.
“I’ll stay here,” Shelby said,” I’ll see what else I can do for Jimmy.” Grian nodded his thanks while he left for the door. “I’ll stay as well, in case the town needs me,” Chris said, stepping up beside Shelby. The Witch smiled at her and she muttered; “Or if Shelby needs my help with something.” Chris and Shelby left to go upstairs, to the bedroom where Jimmy lay.
Scar and Scott went to stand by Grian, waiting for Tango to join them. The netherborn stood in the middle of the room, eyes on the stairs. He was rubbing his hands together nervously, unsure of what to do. He wanted so badly to see Jimmy, but not as he was now. A lifeless toy with a painted smile. Eventually, he decided against going upstairs, instead choosing to leave with the others to convince Joel to undo the curse. He sighed. He’d see Jimmy’s smile again, once he’s done with the God.
Then he’d never let the other out of his sight again.
Stratos was, much to Tango’s dismay, very impressive. And it was hard to navigate without wings. Luckily for them, Scott was among the group and he had visited plenty of times and knew his way around the place. It was harder to find out where Joel was, if he even was at home, all buildings were as grand as the next one and all fit for a God.
“Over there,” Scar said, pointing at the fountain island, floating in the middle of Stratos. They could vaguely make out 2 figures sitting on the edge of the fountain. As they made their way over, trying not to fall in the gaps and tumble to their deaths, the figures became clear.
Joel and Sausage, of Sanctuary, sat quietly talking to each other. They looked up as the group of three Hermits and Scott came closer. Sausage greeted them, but Tango ignored the man. “You!” he hissed an it was all the warning Joel got before he was pushed backwards into the fountain. The God let out a yelp and Sausage gasped in shock. Before Tango could jump into the fountain and start beating the devil out of Joel, Grian grabbed his arms an held him back.
“Change him back!” Tango screeched,” Bring him back!”
Thunderclouds formed above the city of Stratos, as Joel emerged from the Fountain of Lore. An angry expression on his face, hands balled into fists. “What gives you the right to disturb me and my people?” his voice was thunderous and everyone cringed at the volume. “What gives you the right to take my love from me?!” Tango screamed back,” I want him back!” Sausage tried his best to calm Joel down, trying to prevent a flooding in the floating city. “What are you even talking about?” A flash followed by a loud boom.
“Jimmy!”
A very loud silence followed the outburst. Joel’s fighting stance faltered. “What about the Toy man?” he asked, on edge. “Don’t call him that,” Scar gasped loudly, earning him a confused look. “You turned him into a real toy and now he’s no longer alive,” Tango hissed with all the fury he held within. Frustrated tears rolled down his cheeks. Having to say it out loud made his grief only worse.
Joel took a step back in shock. If it wasn’t for Sausage, standing near him and holding his hand, he would’ve fallen back into the fountain. “He- I- What?” All raging thunder had left him and he looked frightened and incredibly small, nothing left of his big and strong demeanour. His eyes wide shot to Scott, looking for anything that said it wasn’t true. Scott’s grim expression didn’t help at all.
“Jimmy is dead?” Sausage asked, swallowing around the lump in his throat. “Timmy isn’t dead,” Grian said, not willing to consider that possibility. “Then how-?” Scott cleared his throat. “There’s a chance we can bring him back to normal,” he said, his eyes meeting Joel’s,” that you can bring him back.”
Joel looked startled. “I don’t know how! I didn’t mean to do it in the first place!” Grian had let go of Tango, who seemed to calm down. Not before shotting him a warning look. “You have to use your words,” Scar said, far too patient for Tango’s liking,” you’re teasing turned him into a toy, your words can change him back.”
Joel looked from Scar to Grian, to Scott and to Tango. “I-,” he cleared his throat,” I’m so sorry.” The netherborn huffed, looking away. “Just… just bring him back.” Joel nodded. He looked at Sausage who gave him a small supportive smile and squeezed his hand. “I’ll try,” the God said,” I’ll do everything in my might. I’ll do anything.”
Once they got back, Chris opened the door for them and lead them upstairs. Sausage gasped as his eyes fell upon the unmoving body lying in the bed. “Oh Jimmy…” he muttered as he walked over, a hand softly stroking through yellow wool hair. Joel stood frozen in the doorway, a storm of emotions on his face.
Tango both felt sorry for him and wanted him to suffer the same grief. But he chose to pity him, deciding that Joel really had not meant to hurt his soulmate. Shelby stood from the chair she had been sitting on, taking Joel’s arm and guiding him closer to Jimmy. The God sat on the side of the bed as he carefully grabbed Jimmy’s hand in his trembling ones. His expression unsure as he shot a look at Shelby.
“Just use your words,” the Witch instructed,” Say what’s in your heart, say what you believe in. it will all be alright.” Tango saw the God nod and focus back on the Sheriff. He tried not to stare too much, finding it hard to breath as he looked at an unmoving Jimmy. He felt, more than saw, Grian and Scar step up behind him. He had no idea where Chris or Scott was, but he paid them no mind. All he could focus on was the God that held the life and the hands of his love in his.
“Uhh, h-hi, Jimmy,” Joel started, unsure,” I’m so sorry for what I’ve done. I didn’t mean to. I swear!” He sighed. “Sorry for teasing you and calling you a Toy, I didn’t know it would change you into a real one… Why didn’t you tell me it was hurting you?” His voice became softer and he started to tremble. “I never meant for this to happen. I never meant to hurt you. You’re not a toy. You’re human! You’re a real man with a human body, pal skin and kind eyes. You are a human, and a great one at that.”
Tango held his breath, feeling the emotions in Joel’s words, staring intently at Jimmy’s body. But no change was happening. And as time ticked by, the others noticed as well. Grian sobbed as he pushed himself into Scar’s side, shutting his eyes. Scar wrapped an arm around him, squeezing him tightly. Shelby took a step back, her eyes going from Jimmy to Joel, an unbelieving expression on her face. Joel noticed his words seemed to have no effect and he grew frantic.
“Please, Jimmy,” he begged,” Wake up! You’re a real human. A real human. Please, please, please!” Joel stopped shaking the blonde as Sausage took hold of his hands, making him release his grip on the other. His eyes met Sausage’s watery ones and he realised his own tears rolling over his cheeks. “I don’t know what to do,” he whispered. “It’s okay, you did your best,” Sausage said, hugging him close.
Tango felt his world shatter. That had been their only hopes. Their last hope. A God’s mighty words. He really believed it would work, that Joel’s words would bring his Jimmy back. But he hadn’t, couldn’t have. And Jimmy lay as still as he had before, lost to all of them in cruel twist of fate. His knees buckled and he sank to the floor. His eyes never leaving Jimmy’s face. Sausage pulled Joel up and away from Jimmy, mentioning taking a break and trying again later. Someone else muttered an agreement, but none had hope left. But before Joel could get through the door, a soft croaky voice spoke up.
“Did you mean what you said?”
Everyone held their breaths as the body in the bed started to twitch, color returning in a soft glow. “Jimmy?” Joel asked, shocked. “Did you mean what you said about me not being a Toy?” Jimmy said, louder now. “Yes!” Joel practically shouted, rushing back to the bed.
“Yes, you’re not a Toy and I’ll never call you one again,” he said, gripping Jimmy’s hand,” I’m so sorry.” Jimmy eyes squinted open, blinking slowly. He offered the God a tired smile. “Can I have that written in the Law book?” he asked. A startled laugh escaped Joel’s lips and he promised to write it all down for the Sheriff.
Jimmy nodded, looking far too exhausted. His eyes roamed through the room, taking in all the people that surrounded him. He noticed Scar, holding on tight to Grian, who looked like he couldn’t quite believe his eyes. His eyes met Scott’s, who seemed to regain some colour in his face, and Shelby’s, who gave him a small smile. He saw Sausage, stepping up to place a hand on Joel’s shoulder and his Deputy Chris standing in the corner of the room, looking like she’s seen a ghost. Then his eyes met Tango, who was frozen, kneeling on the floor. And although he felt his heart break at the look of despair and loss on Tango’s face, a smile formed on his face.
“There’s my Rancher.”
Tango bolted from the floor and onto the bed, being as mindful of Jimmy as he could at the moment, crushing him in a hug. He let out all the sobs he had been holding as he buried his face into the crook of Jimmy’s neck. The blonde let out some sobs of his own as he wrapped his arms around his soulmate.
After a bit, their sobs died down and Tango pulled back a bit. Before Jimmy had the chance to say anything, Tango smashed their lips together. The kiss was bruising and desperate before it morphed into something sweet and soft. Jimmy gasped for air as Tango pulled away. “I told you, you are the one that takes my breath away,” he said, a love-sick look on his face as he wiped away the tears on Tango’s cheeks.
“Never ever do that to me again,” the netherborn hissed, flames on top of his head crackling. Jimmy didn’t stop smiling. “I love you,” Tango said, pulling him back into another kiss. Jimmy blushed a bright red and Tango decided he liked that look on him. So, he repeated what he said. “I love you,” he smooched Jimmy’s nose,” I love you.” Jimmy sputtered, trying to keep Tango from leaving a trail of kisses along his face.
“H-hey! Let me say it back,” he said with a pout. Tango pecked him on the lips. “I love you,” Jimmy said, beaming with pride. Tango chuckled a she bumped their foreheads together. They both let out a deep sigh.
“Let the poor man breath, Tango,” Scar chuckled, pulling the two from their own little world. Jimmy grew tomato red as he looked around the room. He kind of had forgotten about all the others, too focused on Tango. “Uhh, hi?” he said, earning him another chuckle. The netherborn pulled back a bit, but refused to let go entirely.
Grian and Scar stepped closer, the smaller scolding the Sheriff for not telling them sooner. Jimmy looked guilty as he explained his reasoning, he never expected it to get to that part. Grian gave him a knock on the head and a tight hug, before he and Scar left the room. Joel and Sausage followed them downstairs. Scott stepped up with a smile, asking how Jimmy was feeling.
“Still a bit stiff,” he answered honestly. He rolled his shoulder as best as he could with an arm full of TangoTek. “II can help with that,” Shelby said, handing him a potion. He gratefully took it and downed the whole bottle, only now realising how thirsty he was. “We’ll be downstairs,” Scott said,” call us if you need anything.” Jimmy nodded and the Witch and cyanette left the room.
“It’s good to have you back, Sheriff,” Chris said, stepped away from the wall she had been leaning on. “Good to be back,” he answered,” thanks for looking after Tumble Town for me.” She tipped her hat at him. “I tried my best.”
“You sure did Deputy,” he said with a smile. She gave him a look of surprise. “Do you mean…?” Jimmy nodded. “We’ll make it official as soon as we can.” She jumped up in joy, letting out a loud ‘yes!’. “Thank you, Sheriff!” she said as he walked towards the door, a spring in her steps. Before leaving, she turned around. “But don’t worry about it just yet, take your time to recover,” she said,” I’ll leave you two to it.” With a cheeky smile and a wink, she darted out of the room.
Jimmy let out a breathless laugh, shaking his head. The smile left his face as he met Tango’s eyes. The other looked serious, exhausted and borderline sick. He carefully carted his fingers through the flames on top of Tango’s head.
“I almost lost you,” Tango whispered. Jimmy’s expression turned to one of hurt. “I’m so sorry to put you through that.” Tango gave him a small smile. “It’s okay, I understand,” he said softly,” I know you. And I love you.” Jimmy smiled, pulling Tango in for a quick kiss. “I love you too,” he murmured against soft lips. Tango rubbed his thumbs over Jimmy’s cheeks.
“How are you feeling?” he asked. “Like I could sleep for days,” Jimmy said, with a yawn. “Then let us rest,” Tango murmured, snuggling even closer. “Okay,” the other said, followed by another yawn. Tango kept his eyes on Jimmy’s as his eyelids slowly slipped shut. He kissed his cheek, s small smile on Jimmy’s face as he slipped into the dreamworld.
They would talk more about Jimmy keeping things from Tango later, for now he would let him sleep. For now, he would stare closely at the falling and rising of Jimmy’s chest. Afraid it might cease to exist. But after some time of watching the other, hand on his chest, feeling his heartbeat, sleep over took Tango as well.
The others found them, many hours later, tangled together, snuggled into each other’s arms. They decided to leave them be, but not before Scott snapped a picture. “What? They’re so cute together,” the colourful man said, shrugging,” And I could always use it as bargaining material.” Scar had laughed, while Grian shook his head.
Chris had escorted Shelby home, thanking her for all the help and Joel and Sausage had returned to Stratos. The God had apologized to everyone once more, only leaving when he got affirmatio that all was okay. And all was okay in Tumble Town. And the villagers would tell the tales of glory, of how one man defied Gods to bring the love of his life back. They heard of the saying ‘humans can uphold the law, but God’s can speak them’ and they knew. God’s have terribly loud voices.
But love is louder.