Chapter Text
One bullet in the chamber
Breathe easy, take your aim boy
Ain't nobody gonna save you
So what you gonna do?
All eyes on you
Watching the door close behind his mentor leaves Tubbo considering all the gruff man just said, thinking about him walking through the halls of the Hero’s Syndicate at a young Phil’s side freshly teamed up to protect the world. Two bright eyed heroes with their closest friends, arms aching and hearts light, gearing up to make their mark on this chaotic city of L’Manburg.
Tubbo picked the book up that Techno left and moved it to his nightstand, his chest tight thinking just what the pink-haired man had been through.
His thoughts had been consumed by nothing else than thinking of the tale Techno wove, examining his memories from the Syndicate of any mention of this fallen Hero. He said he had been here over a decade, Tubbo couldn’t picture a single time Techno’s name or description had ever been told to him. It was nearly glaring, just how empty it was. Almost as though that was reflective of his absence, even from stories as the memories were too painful.
Fidgeting with the letter before opening the envelope using a fingernail, he has to devote his attention to the words on the page to stop them from dancing while he reads. In between the threats, promising to break in, and whining, he felt Tommy’s love in the harsh words he carved deep into this paper with his chicken-scratch handwriting.
Tears splotch the page below as Tubbo, once again, desperately misses them all. After only seeing Ranboo for a year, he wonders just how tall Tommy had gotten. What else had changed since that fateful night of delivering himself right to Schlatt? What had they lived through he would never get the chance to experience? What would he have to give to be home in his room in his and Eret’s apartment, sprawled across the bed with his best friends talking about their days?
Placing the letter within the slit he had cut into the bottom of his mattress after folding the paper back to its original shape, letting it drop with a soft thud as he walked to his nightstand.
Pulling out a notebook of blank pages, he tears one out to place it on the cover and locates his pen.
After writing a response back to Tommy and Ranboo full of banter, affirmations he is okay, and spelling mistakes aplenty he turns the page over and writes a name he hadn’t yet.
Philza.
Ranboo had always promised if Tubbo ever wanted to pass along words to Zephyrus they would give it to him immediately. Exposing their continued visits while doing so, Tubbo only reserved this right until the perfect opportunity. Likely something that would get Ranboo banned from future visits unless he could pass along compelling enough information that would peak the Hero’s interest.
Taking a deep breath, he writes one simple sentence with hopes this will score him a meeting with the Councilmember despite now being rumoured as the new Marksman of the M.A.G.
Technoblade is alive.
Now the whole world's watching every move
Still your heart so much to prove
Fight for all the things that you believe in
Ranboo picked up the letter on his next visit, casting a curious look at the chair against the door which Tubbo summarised what he learned before the split-dyed sidekick went home. The next few days passed by slowly, Ranboo often wasn’t able to make it every day, only a few times a week so absences like these were common.
Tubbo missed his best friends while he went out on missions with Techno, who seemed just as withdrawn as his pupil. Something had shifted the night the tough old medic had warmed up, more life sparking deep within his defeated eyes which he seemed to be contemplative of.
One night, far later than usual, Tubbo arrives back in his room to a letter laying on his bed with a hyacinth bound in a golden chain with a precious emerald at the end.
Excitement makes his fingers shake, clumsily unwrapping the chain before placing the flower with the others in the vase by his bed. Examining the emerald close he questions it before opening the letter eagerly, having a good feeling this one would contain a response from Phil, confirmed as he sees Zephyrus’s writing.
Tubbo knew neither himself or Techno could ever return to the Syndicate, nor could Wilbur and Eret. But despite that, he was so fucking tired of killing people he just wanted a way to take Schlatt down.
And if enraging Phil with the knowledge someone he might be mourning still lives and had been captured years ago was their ticket out?
He would take it.
Dear Tubbo,
I have to admit, I am disappointed in you for encouraging my Sidekick’s rebellious acts but I can hardly blame him. I knew you were still alive and am grateful to hear from you. I tried so hard to keep your file open but after tales spread you were the Marksman the Council insisted on closing the case.
For a while I have been working on my own for a plan to break you out once we locate M.A.G.'s base to free you from that evil man’s grasp but progress has been slow.
Now that you have told me Technoblade is there?
You just became our first priority because this is the first time I have concrete proof of my best friend in a long, long time and I will fight for you both to be relevant in their eyes once more.
Give him this emerald and please let Ranboo know where your next mission will be the moment you see him again. I am not sure if you can weasel your way into getting it early but we are going to meet you beforehand as I want to see him with my own eyes.
This emerald has many meanings between us and hopefully you can convince him to come.
Stay safe, mate.
Philza
Turning over the emerald in the lantern light, he takes a heavy breath. Tucking the letter in his safekeeping spot, he debates going to the medical bay right now.
Tubbo knew no one had been injured as of late, Schlatt would be long passed out from alcohol and Quackity would be busy ripping some poor lower level M.A.G. agent off at the gambling tables on the other side of Headquarters.
Pocketing the emerald and second guessing whether to bring the letter before deciding against it, he heads to the infirmary. Easier to explain a random gem over incriminating writing from a Council member of the Hero’s Syndicate if he is caught by anyone.
Walking down the luxuriously furnished hall he runs into no one, slowing as he approaches Techno’s space when he hears two voices.
Damnit.
Recognising Wilbur’s sonorous tones, Tubbo has to make a decision. How much has Schlatt encouraged his mindset lately? Would he turn the boy in for the sake of a moment of grace from the President?
Staring at the baby blue door with metal handles, he takes a breath and pushes it open. He’s already come this far, and he was done with waiting for the next count to be added to his inked knuckles.
“Toby?” Techno kind heart slips out as he spots his student marching in with the nickname, Wilbur laying upon a bed with a sheepish smile and an elevated leg.
Wearing his usual brown, patched trenchcoat and butter yellow sweater, curly brown hair mussed with his ankle wrapped in bandages and a bag of ice on top, he fidgets sheepishly when Tubbo sees his bound injury.
“We need to talk.”
“Now?” Tech looks at Wilbur, who also looks confused now that the mood shifted, Techno’s worried tone heavily showing.
“This concerns the Syndicate.” Not bothering to hide it, the brunette sniper states the truth watching Wilbur’s mocha eyes widen.
“Hush! Don’t say that name so loud!” The medic lectures, grabbing Tubbo’s hand and pulling him to a chair nearby himself at the curly brunette’s bedside. Looking around, he leaves his seat to put a record on, turning it up slightly louder than usual before returning. “Damnit kid, it’s like you are trying to get caught.”
“Are you in communication with them?” Wilbur asks, looking genuinely curious and Tubbo’s heart screams to trust him as he once did, like ages ago before they all landed in this madman’s space who manipulated others with glee.
“Are you going to repeat anything I say to Schlatt?” Tubbo asked him point blank, searching his expression for deceit while Wilbur’s face sharpens.
“You think I would turn over my Sidekick to the man who hurt us all?”
“I don’t know man, I don’t know anymore.” Tubbo thinks back over his time here, wondering just how many thoughts were his own.
“You can trust me Tubs, I want to see Tommy just as badly as you.” Wilbur promises, holding out his hand, a moment passes before Tubbo takes it. “Now, tell us what you were going to say.”
His free hand clenched for a moment, before he reached into his pocket to pull out the emerald dangling from the golden chain. Techno’s soft inhale tells Tubbo all he needs to know, meeting his dearest mentor’s eyes.
“A certain crow-winged man told me to give this to you and urge you to help me find out our next mission early so we can arrange a meeting. I told him you lived in a letter Lethe took back.”
Placing it within his scarred palm, Technoblade is at a loss for words, sea-filled eyes looking down at the gem with a storm alit within their depths. With trembling hands, he pulls the chain out for Tubbo to realise it is a necklace, fingers closing upon the precious item.
“My father sent that?” Wilbur asked, watching Techno’s reaction.
“Do you know about a missing Hero named Protesilaus, Wil?” Tubbo looks at the curly brunette, whose eyes hint recognition when he looks at Techno with a new perspective. “I never put together the fact Phil once ran with a sworn crew of four, not three.”
“The emerald in his Hero’s tattoo…it never crossed my mind to wonder who was missing.” Wilbur winces as he shifts his leg, meeting Tubbo’s questioning look. “Dad always told us about him in the stories growing up but said he went rogue and they never heard from him again. They searched for months but he disappeared without a trace. Mom, Dad and Uncle Sneeg always seemed so upset when we pestered them with questions so we eventually left it alone, Tommy and I.”
“Your…Mom?” Techno quietly asked, Tubbo shocked seeing the tears slowly descending his cheeks. “What’s her name?”
“Kristin. Kristin Craft.”
Techno suddenly stands, walking to the other side of the infirmary which Tubbo and Wilbur watch with awed silence. A few bars of music pass before Techno turns to Tubbo, face wiped clean with a determined look he comes back to stand nearby once more.
“So, you have obviously directly contacted a Council member of the opposing side, behind my back. Toby, Schlatt might actually kill you if he found out.” Techno rubs the bridge of his nose, anger masking the concern Tubbo knew he felt.
“Will you hear me out before you read me my rights?”
Techno wordlessly gestures to him to continue.
“Is there any way for us to receive a mission a few days in advance from Schlatt? Are there any reconnaissance outings we could take?”
The room grows silent before Techno sighs, responding. “I have heard of those types of missions before but they are handled by other agents usually, we are just the killing squad.”
“Is there any way we could convince him it's a way to round out my skill set?” Tubbo thinks aloud, framing it objectively. “For both our sakes, since you have been stuck in here until I came along.”
“The Oracle and Mercenary have asked for specific types of missions before.” Wilbur broke in. “I have overheard the President wondering about it before in regards to you two, he likes having people who can do multiple things well.”
“Please Tech, this could be all our tickets out of here.” Tubbo begged, knowing they had to convince the medic, despite the instincts that were beaten into the pink-haired man.
“Whose to say Phil wouldn’t arrest us the moment we show up?” Techno growls, pacing. “We are now confirmed members of the city’s most notorious assassin’s guild, by your admission. We could walk out there and be made an example of.”
“Technoblade.” Wilbur cut him off, the pink-haired man silencing. “I know it has been a long time, years in fact, but do you truly believe my Dad is that type of person?”
Techno freezes in his movements, shoulders dropping. “With the chaos he covered for us all in our Syndicate days, no. I don’t think he would.”
“Well then?” Tubbo pleaded, hoping he would say yes. “Help me break Wilbur, Eret, you and me out of this hellhole.”
His voice tightened as he spoke the next sentence, holding up his hands so the tattoos face the Blade, thatched across his hand in shaky black lines. “Techno, I don’t want to add to this count anymore.”
Techno’s face softened, catching sight of the permanent marks coating his skin, meeting Tubbo’s gaze. “Fine. I will try to speak to Schlatt tomorrow, he is supposed to come in for an appointment in the morning anyways. He demands I help heal the hangovers he gives himself every night each time so I can discuss it then.”
Tubbo has to stop himself from cheering, Techno meeting Wilbur’s curious looks now that he put the pieces together. “I will ask the questions I have to you later about what Phil has said about me. For now, you both should sleep.”
“So should you.” Tubbo tells him, knowing it's fruitless as Techno cradles the gem close to his chest as he sits heavily at his desk along the far wall from where Wilbur was.
“I’ll try.”
“Good night Tech.”
“Night kid.”
Tubbo went to sleep that night excited for the first time in months. They finally had a possible exit from this never-ending hell, after reuniting two best friends it might become a reality. It became his bedtime story, the plans to escape and what he wanted to do the moment they were free. Drifting off to sleep with hope in his heart Schlatt wouldn’t find out this direct traitorous activity they were about to engage in, the sandman steals the brunette’s consciousness away for dreams filled with peace and laughter, bolstering his spirit.
Now the whole world's watching every move
Take your shot, don't act a fool
All you've got and all you'll ever need
“Up and at ‘em kid.” Techno’s voice wakes Tubbo from his slumber, eyes blinking open to see the medic standing over his bed. “You are lucky Schlatt trusts me and he was thinking about it anyway cause he granted our request of a recon mission soon.”
Tubbo sat bolt upright, his escape scheme falling more into place with the confirmation of that plan. “Really?”
“He is in his office picking one out for us now, when does Lethe come by?”
Tubbo pulls himself from the warm sheets to get dressed for the day, running a brush through his hair. “Every few days or so but I can leave a letter in the nightstand if we get sent out tonight. They know to look there if they don’t see my message in the open.”
Techno spends a few moments thinking, before determination morphs his expression. “Well, if we are going to do this hare-brained scheme of yours it seems now is the time. You should talk to Eret as well.”
Tubbo freezes, their name bringing the guilty heavy in his stomach like stones upon a riverbed.
Sensing his hesitation, Techno’s voice turns gentle. “I know you think they must hate you but your emotions are getting in the way of your logic. They don’t have a mean or spiteful bone in them, just talk to them Toby.”
Tubbo thinks about the poor soul he hadn’t spoken to properly in months, sadness staining each memory thinking of how his damn abilities caused them to go blind. Slowing his getting-ready-for-the-day progress, he loses himself in the memories of them living together in the Syndicate.
Orphans like him were often roomed with another older child, when he clicked with Eret upon first meeting their living situation was easy to fall into routine with. They always wanted the best for him, helping and comforting Tubbo in whatever way he needed. Their kindness and grace was something Tubbo idolised, wanting to have just a drop of the humility and compassion they carried.
His heart pounded thinking of the conversation to come but Techno was right, it had been far too long since they properly spoke. Taking a deep breath, he turns to Techno.
“Will you come with me?”
Techno’s eyes crinkle in the corner, small smile as he responds. “To the ends of the Earth Tubbo, I am here for you.”
In the mornings Eret was most often found in the gambling den, they counted the earnings from last night's games to pass the time between when the President needed their abilities. Tubbo would have to get them to go back to their room, where there were no audio devices used to record information Schlatt would use maliciously.
Walking into the room Eret’s face tilts towards the door, hearing the creak of the hinges. Looking elegant per usual, long curling brunette hair brushing the top of their clean white button up. Thick sunglasses covered the worst of their scars, where only hollows remained where eyes should be.
“Good morning!” They say cheerfully, deep voice warm in the late evening hours.
“Evenin’ Eret.” Techno greets them, joy pulling his features up. Something about the harmonious soul meant they got along with everyone, melting even the most solid hearts.
“Hello.” Tubbo starts softly, Eret’s mouth opening slighting in shock hearing his voice.
“Tubbo? Is that you?” Their long fingers stop expertly sorting the earnings, turning their stool to face the pair.
Looking at their sweet face, Tubbo’s heart stutters until Techno leans closer, allowing the boy to take strength in the fact he was right there feeling their arms brush. “It is.”
“Dear boy, it’s been too long.” Eret gave the widest smile, no malice anywhere within their expression.
“Can we talk?” Tubbo blurts out, looking around before continuing. “Maybe in your room, I’d rather not have it where anyone can walk in?”
It was a valid reason, something Schlatt would hopefully not find suspicious if he watched any of this footage. Tubbo prayed he took it they were finally making up which the President would like, a united front stronger than one divided.
“Of course Toby, anywhere and anytime.” Standing quickly and brushing their lavender skirts smooth, they confidently walk towards the door.
All three adjourned to their room quickly, furnishings neat and tidy around their apartment. Eret goes to where a regal red high-back chair is next to their dark wooden dresser, settling in then looking to where Tubbo stood fidgeting with his fingers.
“What would you like to discuss, Toby?”
“I’m sorry.” Tubbo said quickly, watching their mouth drop open in recognition of what was about to be talked about. “It’s because of me you are blind now, you must hate me.”
Eret shakes their head fiercely, curls bouncing before waving the small brunette closer. “Come here, Tubbo, I want to hold your hand while I say this.”
Tubbo does so hesitantly, letting them grab his hand in a tight grip. “I do not blame you for what happened, I never did.”
“Why don’t you?” Tubbo’s voice choked up, tears clouding his eyes as Eret offered a small, sorrowful smile.
“You never intended to harm me, you were trying to give us an escape. How can I possibly blame you for trying to save us?” Eret holds their hand in a nearing painful grip, reaching their free hand up to drop the glasses which Tubbo gasps at seeing the scars up close. “I don’t want you to blame yourself for this ever again.”
“My abilities are so dangerous.” Tubbo raises a trembling hand, tracing the puckered skin around the scarred over sockets.
“They are unpredictable, sure, but I know you will never harm anyone with malicious intent. That's all I could ever ask for Toby, you didn’t intend for this to happen.”
Tubbo looks at the bright soul who was always in his corner. He let his guilt push them away for no reason, but he couldn’t help the guilt tightening his stomach. “Let me do one thing for you that will never be close to the repayment you deserve, but would help me sleep better at night.”
Eret’s mouth curves up, letting out a sigh. “Fine, Tubbo, only if you will remember me saying I do not blame you.”
“Let me break you out of here.”
That was clearly something the long-haired brunette wasn’t expecting, dropping Tubbo’s hand to their lap as they cocked their head, confused. “But there is no escape.”
“On the contrary, we do have an outside helping hand.”
Quickly, in rushed tones Tubbo explains his past several months of speaking with Ranboo when he could before Techno told him of his past. Revealing the fact the medic still lived meant the Syndicate was ready to extend salvation to these trapped souls under Schlatt’s thumb, if Phil had to drag the entire Council himself he would. Tubbo knew this was only a risk he was willing to take to see Techno again and confirm he lives, but the brunette could make peace with that. You get a little reckless when someone you love is in danger.
“Soon we are going on a recon mission, during which we will meet up with Phil and whoever he chooses to bring to brainstorm a way out of here.”
Techno’s face turned sour hearing the blonde Hero’s name, eyes full of hurt and questioning. Tubbo hoped this reunion went well, decade long hurts being aired while they learned the true story of why the Council was never able to find their missing medic by the name of Protesilaus.
“This is dangerous Toby, what if Schlatt finds out?” Eret dropped their voice into a softer tone, Tubbo taking the initiative to place his hand on their shoulder as he spoke from his heart.
“I don’t want to kill anymore Eret, and we finally have a chance to get us all out of his reach so he can’t threaten each of us into staying.”
Eret considers it for a moment, before their face changes to one of determination. “Alright, what do you need me to do?”
Quickly they go over all the details together before deciding Eret would stick closer to Wilbur for the next while. Techno and Tubbo would go on this recon mission and when they returned they would plan the final escape from Schlatt’s clutches.
After their conniving happens, the President summoned Tubbo and Techno via Fundy when he eventually tracked them down to Eret’s quarters. The redhead didn’t seem suspicious about it all, often M.A.G. members spent time with one another between missions, leading them back to Schlatt’s office.
There, the sharp dressed man assigned them a reconnaissance mission to gather the details on an information broker to find the best way to take him down. The assignment would take a few days, learning his patterns and finding the times the target was alone. Schlatt gave it to them happily, echoing Wilbur’s sentiments that he was happy to have more well-rounded agents to do his dirty work.
The pair were to set out that night for a safe house on the far side of L’Manburg and to begin their search from there to locate and track their victim. Both went back to their rooms to prepare, Schlatt wanting them to leave as soon as they had done so.
Scribbling a quick note, Tubbo writes down the area they would be and a specific park he had seen on the map of the safehouse he and Techno would arrive at once daily at the same time so they could coordinate the meeting.
Packing a few things into his backpack, he finds Techno at the armoury and checks out his usual rifle while the medic grabs a sword and a rifle for himself. As they are walking to the exit of the facility they cross paths with Wilbur, who gives them a single nod, hope shining in his eyes. Not able to exchange words while Wilbur is with Quackity, they take the silent acknowledgement of the plan and continue forth.
Navigating through the sewers Tubbo had seen far too much, they arrive upon the surface and start their journey on foot through alleys and over rooftops to their destination. Avoiding the streets when possible to avoid having their faces out to the general public, they arrive at the apartment Schlatt had set up for their mission.
They did it all with practised precision, barely any words spoken while they prepared for the coming assignment and the meeting that had Techno all worried.
Tubbo saw it in the way he kept fidgeting with the emerald necklace he now wore tucked under his shirt until they left M.A.G.’s headquarters, pulling it out to play with it while they performed maintenance on their weapons.
Their first check in of the meeting spot was approaching, Techno’s pacing growing more frequent as Tubbo debates what to say to the blonde the pink-haired man was stressing out about. It had been nearly a year since his greatest mistake of this hare-brained escape plan that ended with himself captured along with the infiltrators.
An alarm rang, Techno quieting his watch and tossing a panicked look at Tubbo. The brunette couldn’t imagine what his mentor was thinking, the normally composed man’s eyes were wide with anxiety.
“They might not even be there.” Tubbo assures, which Techno takes a deep breath.
“But they might be.”
“Only one way to find out.” Tubbo nearly chuckles at watching his teacher display the same fidgets he often did while nervous.
They leave their apartment, tucking their rifles under their capes before heading to the secluded park they planned to meet the others at if they got the letter Tubbo left in his nightstand. The pair didn’t share any conversation as they went to the meeting point, planning to stay an hour before moving onto their recon mission.
As they arrived at the agreed upon place, Techno grew more nervous while Tubbo slipped into a calculating mindset. Opposite from their usual, Tubbo sat down on a iron wrought bench fidgeting with a coin he found in his pocket while Techno paced and kept constant surveillance.
The place they chose was well enough out of the way they had little concern they would be discovered by all those but the ones they wanted to find, still Techno hadn’t taken a deep breath all day. Tubbo was worried his mentor would pass out, opened his mouth to say something when Techno froze.
Looking towards the entrance of the park they stood within, Tubbo’s eyes land on Zephyrus, Nyx, Hephaestus and Lethe as they walk through the gate. Phil’s gaze was locked on his once best friend, his wife letting out a soft gasp before rushing closer.
“Tech?” She asked softly, Techno’s stone stature breaking at how heartbroken she sounded.
“Kristin.” He chokes out, folding her into a hug which Sneegsnag joins. Phil still seems hesitant, unbelieving of the reality he stood in front of while his brother and wife throw themselves at the pink-haired medic.
Ranboo joins the enthusiasm but hugs Tubbo instead, dwarfing him due to the split-dyed soul being a giant. They murmur reassurances to one another before turning their attention back to Phil and Techno, Kristin and Sneeg standing aside.
“Where have you been all this time?” Phil asks softly, Techno’s gaze hardening.
“I have been rotting away under Schlatt’s hold for nearly a decade Phil, that's where I have been. Waiting for those I once swore to protect to rescue me, which you never did!” Techno snaps, Phil flinching at his harsh tone.
“Mate, we searched everywhere for you.” Phil replies, gentle despite the anger Techno held. “For months we went over everything about that mission. We traced your footsteps right up until you disappeared. I drove investigators crazy with how much evidence I kept making them take in hopes it would be the puzzle piece to bring you home.”
“All three of us pushed the Council to keep it an open case.” Sneegsnag added, sitting heavily on a worn bench beside Tubbo and Ranboo, pleading eyes aimed Techno’s way.
“Phil barely slept in the months following, none of us did.” Kristin reaches out to hold her husband’s trembling hand.
“I nearly drove myself mad trying desperately to find some type of clue as to where you went.”
“An’ then?” Techno questions.
“Rumours began to spread that you had deserted the Syndicate and went rogue. None of us believed them but a lot within the Hero’s group did. You were always the most rebellious of us, pushing and questioning rules and regulations if you didn’t agree with them.” Sneegsnag answers, dropping his grey-blue eyes to stare at the pavement below. “What were we supposed to believe, Tech? One day you were right beside us, getting your tattoo and taking your Hero’s Vow.”
“An’ the next I was gone.”
“Then stories changed, someone had seen you leaving the city. One source claimed to have seen you several towns over, starting fresh. Another claims you died and none of us had any idea where.” Kristin finishes the thought, reaching her free hand out to the scarred medics. “So many untruths hid your disappearance.”
“If we had known the unseen Blood God of the Manburg Assassin's Guild was our Protesilaus, we would have broken down that front door with no question. I would be marching in there with or without the Council’s backing to have saved you, right behind Phil and Sneeg.”
“I never lost hope.” Phil offers softly, meeting Techno’s sorrowful gaze. “It was a desperate one, most wrote you off years ago as someone who had fallen in the line of duty. I could never give up on you, I swear to everything we ever held holy.”
“How can you hold hope when it's been years with no word?” Kristin says softly, before tossing a love-filled glance to her husband. “Phil was our only source of it because he never lost his own.”
Techno absorbed the words, looking to each person gathered, lastly Phil. The crow-winged Hero released his wife’s hand and opened his arms, black wings trembling as Techno wasn’t the only one with nerves apparently. “We have a lot to discuss, I am sure for many hours to come, but can I hug my closest friend for the first time in far too long now?”
Techno takes a step forward and picks up Phil, who squawks in surprise, tears running silently down the now assassin’s cheeks. Cradling the middle-aged blonde close, Tubbo lets out a breath of relief. As they embrace Tubbo’s eyes land on the earring in each of the three Hero’s ears with a distinct emerald gem surrounded by gold, remembering it to be similar to the necklace Techno hadn’t taken off since Tubbo gave it to him.
Ranboo gives a small chuckle beside, saying in a low voice. “I take it your mentor was just as tense as mine leading up to this meeting.”
“Thats the understatement of the fucking year.” Tubbo replies, looking at Techno and Phil fondly. “Makes me miss Toms.”
“He tried to come, Niki wouldn’t let him. We only told her and one other where we were going, just in case it all went sideways.”
“Phil is still far too paranoid?”
“You know it.”
“It's insane how similar they act despite nearly a decade apart.”
“Forever meant to find each other.” Tubbo’s heart aches thinking of Eret back at base, hoping they can figure a way out of their current situation.
“Now then. I do want to explain my half of the story here to those who might not know.” Techno addresses them all, stepping back looking much more content. He quickly summarises the story he told Tubbo a few nights ago.
Of waking up under Schlatt’s suffocating hold. Being threatened with Schlatt’s power, starved and beaten into compliance before his manipulation took hold that no one was truly coming for him. Tubbo watched Phil pull back into himself some more, flinching at each detail Techno added into his story.
Tubbo knew of Schlatt’s power, and the fact Techno was being held under threat of it was terrifying and familiar as it was his favourite way to keep you in line. Through touch, he could turn any liquid to alcohol, which the human body held a lot of. Between him and Quackity’s touch-based gold-gilding abilities, they made an intimidating pairing.
“So my ever-reaching pupil decided now is the time we finally escape his clutches with a bang.” Techno snarks, looking with a proud expression at the small brunette who feels his cheeks warm. “Revealing his past with you an’ the fact you guys might be the key to it all.”
“Is Wilbur and Eret okay?” Kristin’s eyes shone with concern, meeting both Tubbo and Techno’s while she waited for an answer.
“They are alive and eager to get out.” Tubbo replies, deciding now is not the time to reveal Eret's devastating injuries at his own hands. “The President keeps them close as their abilities are useful to him.”
Tubbo said the next sentence softer, understanding in all of their eyes just how much M.A.G. exploited their agents for Schlatt’s personal gain. Wringing his hands together, Kristin gasps seeing the numerous marks coating the back of Tubbo’s hands, rushing to his side and kneeling down to examine them.
“Toby, what are these for?”
Tubbo felt his chest tighten over the visible amount of kills across his knuckles, rubbing the rough skin. “You know the Marksman M.A.G. is now weaponizing against information brokers? That’s me, I know there were rumours but I am offering that confirmation.”
“They are his kills.” Techno quietly finishes, looking very sorrowful at the explanation.
“Eret and Wilbur are kept within headquarters but Techno and I have been assigned missions to complete outside as we are useful in other ways to Schlatt.” Ranboo grabbed one of his hands to stop his fidgeting, their expression level and comforting. “I want out, Kristin. I don’t want to kill anymore.”
A raging fire ignites in her molten chocolate eyes, standing back up to press a kiss to his forehead before mumbling. “I am so sorry we weren’t able to get you out sooner.”
Techno looks extremely guilty when Phil reaches a hand out to his best friend, clutching it in solidarity he understands. Kristin joins her husband and Sneeg clears his throat, looking to Tubbo.
“So what’s the plan to get you out?” He clarifies, looking at Techno. “All of you, no man left behind anymore. How do we bring you home?”
“Well none of us would be allowed within the Syndicate as we have killed many without reason in the Council’s eyes.” Tubbo replies, fingers tracing the marks on his hand while he explains. “But I think with all four of us under his rule no longer adhering to his mind manipulation we have a good chance to shatter the organisation once and for all.”
“I can teleport people out of the base if needed, if you can gather all four of you without suspicion to your room and I can do it one by one.” Ranboo offers, cracking his knuckles. “Been a while since my last workout.”
Techno considers this, meeting Tubbo’s gaze. “It would be the quietest way to get us all out. But we both know Schlatt will not stop pursuing us thereafter, we need a more permanent way to break that organisation completely.”
“We get Wilbur and Eret out first, then we kill Schlatt.” Tubbo offers, examining his mentor’s face. “Once the people are out that he could use to threaten us, we take him down.”
“That would certainly be better for the city if M.A.G. falls apart.” Phil observes, before casting a careful look towards Tubbo. “Are you sure you can kill him?”
Tubbo just gives a sad chuckle. “What’s one more?”
“I will only agree to this if you let me take the killing blow.” Techno’s stormy eyes flashed, ancient anger at war with reason. “I have stood by your side for so long because somehow, you wiggled your way into my good graces, but I want to be the one to finally end the President.”
Tubbo pauses, thinking of the story Techno wove of his experiences before the brunette sniper arrived, and nods. “I agree to that.”
Is one bullet in the chamber
The rest of their meeting was catching up with all that happened and finalising their escape. After the recon mission has been completed, they were only supposed to be at the safehouse for a week learning their targets movements, then they would be back at M.A.G.’s headquarters. Ranboo would drop by to make sure all is in place and Tubbo and Techno would inform Eret and Wilbur of their schemes.
The week passed both quicker and slower than Tubbo wanted, anxious to get back to base to clear it with the other members of this proposed fleeing group. Between the pair they worked efficiently, recording all the information M.A.G. needed on their target’s habits.
Their target this time was someone who was actively working against the mayoral candidate Schlatt wanted in power of this city, someone whose ear he could bend the will of each time he desired change. Anything for more power, was the President’s drive. Once all their data was collected they packed up the safe house, and started their journey back to the sewers.
His mentor seemed a lot brighter these days, Phil managed to send Ranboo with a burner phone for Techno so he had been texting his best friend constantly catching up on everything after Tubbo taught him how to use it.
Only higher M.A.G. agents were allowed to carry a cell phone, their headquarters had technology in place to block most incoming signals. Once they were back the text messages would cease, they would have to go back to using Ranboo as the messenger.
Techno had been so confused when he received the phone, he had been caught for such a long time technology had long since outdistanced him. Seeing his stoic mentor grumble in frustration had sent Tubbo laughing as he taught him about the device, showing him the basic functions.
The smaller brunette caught the medic constantly checking it now to see if he missed any notifications while their hoods were pulled up high on their heads. Walking towards an entrance they could use to return to the underground Tubbo stopped moving, indicating Techno should do the same.
“Need to get rid of the device big man.” Tubbo said softly, indicating the phone Techno clutched close. “I have never tried to bring a phone in and I don’t know what detection technology they use at M.A.G.”
“Can’t get caught with it, I know.” Techno said, holding it tighter and sending one last message before he drops it on the cement, driving the heel of his boot through it.
“Soon we will be back with them again.” Tubbo promises, Techno giving a single nod before crouching down to lift the grate.
“In you go, kid.”
They descended beneath the streets, making their way back to essentially their prison. Tubbo lets his hood fall down and runs a hand through his long hair, making the promise to himself the moment they are free to go get it trimmed. Frowning in frustration, Techno gives a soft chuckle before retrieving a hair tie and handing it to the sniper. Gathering his hair back in the elastic, they both take deep breaths as they arrive at the check in point.
Performing the sign in check, they enter the lush headquarters of their trap. Techno and Tubbo take one more look at each other before heading to the President’s office, running into Quackity, Purpled and Punz standing right outside chatting about some mission or another. Nodding to the Dealer, Oracle and Mercenary, they enter the luxurious office where Schlatt is nursing his usual whiskey with an appraising eye towards the team that entered.
“How did the first recon mission go?” Schlatt asked, sipping the honey-yellow liquid in the glass he held.
Techno dropped the notebook on his desk along with the file folder that had been filled with photos following their target’s movements throughout the day. The medic launched into the report they had crafted between planning with Phil and the rest of those on their side, Schlatt nodding along as he listened.
“Therefore the best time to get him seems to be the moment he is done with work, as he goes to this park frequently to sit at the bench an’ read for about an hour. He did it four out of the seven days we kept an eye on him.”
The President looks closer at the photos and contemplates things for a moment, nodding, before he looks back to the pair in front of him. “Good, good, and how did your meeting with the Syndicate go?”
The air left the room the moment he muttered those words, Tubbo felt his back stiffen up entirely. The door creaks open behind the pair and the student looks to his mentor, terrified, as Quackity, Purpled, Punz and Fundy join them in the claustrophobic office, trapping them.
“You really thought I didn't have the medical bay bugged?” Schlatt places his glass on the table definitely, echoing loudly through the tight room. “Ever the paranoid one Blood God, still failing to think I would go so far even after all this time.”
Technoblade’s eyes went wide, Tubbo’s gut washing with guilt thinking of the conversion with Wilbur and Techno before they left for their mission.
“Shit.” Tubbo curses, fists clenching thinking of just how much danger his careless words caused them.
“Fundy tracked you all to the meeting but I asked him to only observe, so he did. Brought me back the most wonderful photos.” Pulling a different file folder out from the drawers of his desk, he tosses it on the surface and spills photos of Techno, Tubbo, Zephyrus, Nyx, Hephaestus in the park on that fateful day. “Lupine tried to get close enough to hear your conversation and got the main parts, a much more loyal agent than you traitors.”
Tubbo flinched at the words, Techno staring ahead with a stony expression as Schlatt’s eyes promised violence. “So, what shall I do with you? Throw you into isolation like I did with Hiraeth and Wraith until I make my decision? I think that’s a sound idea. Dealer, Oracle and Mercenary, if you will.”
Quackity comes up to place a hand on each of their arms, aura of threatening to turn their flesh to gold if they stepped out of line surrounding the attractive man with sad eyes. Punz went to Techno’s side and Purpled went to Tubbo, the muscular blondes offering their brawn, dragging them off to the rooms neither of them had ever wanted to see again.
Is one bullet in the chamber
Breathe easy, take your aim boy
Ain't nobody gonna save you
So what you gonna do?
All eyes on you
Blank, white walls.
That’s all that surrounded Technoblade, where he sat against the cold surface, some amount of days after Schlatt outed their betrayal. He had lost track, an intentional choice of Schlatt while he and he assumed all three others rotted away.
The President was bound to make an example of them, Techno was surprised he wasn’t dead yet. His only redeemable feature was his healing abilities but them showing their hand so blatantly meant that if the Syndicate did attempt to save them, Schlatt was now prepared for that instance.
Not that his thoughts would let him believe they were coming, after all, they didn’t save him before, why would they now? Despair robbed away Techno’s determination to escape, and he was ready to plead his case with Schlatt when a loud bang sounded from the adjourning wall.
Shouting rang through as Techno pushed himself into a standing position slowly, muscles aching from being trapped in this tiny room and barely moving for a while.
Suddenly the wall behind him melted and an excited Philza stood behind it, wings flared wide. Ranboo was clutching Tubbo close in the room that had just been exposed, Techno shrugging off his usual touch avoidance to throw himself in Phil’s arms while the blonde chuckled.
“How–why–where….what are you here for?” Techno chokes out, relief closing his throat off pulling back to peer into Phil’s sky eyes.
“When Ranboo appeared into Tubbo’s room to find it a mess we figured out you had been compromised. So I demanded my Sidekick to teleport me here so we can break the other three out before we take down Schlatt together.”
“Not without me, you aren’t.” Tubbo demands, his steely glare meeting Techno’s pleading one. “We break out Eret and Wilbur, then all three of us go for the President together after we stash them somewhere safe.”
Quietly looking at his student, Techno has a feeling there would be no changing his mind. A stubborn streak they both shared, he assesses Tubbo’s expression before turning to Phil. “Let’s get your son an’ his partner, then we can go from there. Did you plan to bring anyone else?”
Lethe appears back with Sneeg, wearing a wild grin and holding his signature weapon, a big ol’ fuck-off hammer. “I heard we are being summoned to kick ass?”
“The four of us go kick his ass.” Tubbo amends at Hephaestus’s appearance, geared up to fight.
“Oracle, Mercenary, Lupine an’ The Dealer are going to be in between us, an' Schlatt.” Techno explains, thinking of the other four agents.
“They don’t deserve to die.” Tubbo states, the four others in the room turning their attention to the small sniper. “Techno, can you truly tell me if they enjoy their position here?”
Techno ponders for a moment, fidgeting with his brain as he thinks about when the other four mentioned arrived. Similar to himself and Tubbo, Schlatt snatched them away from the public and through his conniving smooth tones convinced them to cooperate with him. “Schlatt will find any weakness to exploit, I have always had the sense it's out of obligation for each of those four.”
“Aim to knock out, not kill.” Philza agrees, tucking his wings close to his back and pulls out his signature scythe from the ether he commanded. Part of his reality abilities included a personal pocket dimension full of weapons his brother had forged over the years.
Back in their early Hero’s Syndicate days, a lot of people within that organisation predicted Phil would be one of the most powerful individuals of their generation. Between his ether of weapons, ability to delete matter from existence plus the fact he can fly? He was definitely that title and more.
Techno cast a proud grin towards his best friend, holding out his hand. “Do you have a spare sword?”
Phil’s sky eyes swim as he reaches into his personal void to draw a blade to hand over Techno hadn’t seen in years. Gasping softly, he reaches out to grasp the familiar hilt Phil used to give him before every encounter. A ruby pressed into the silver handle, longsword steel gleaming wickedly in the artificial light of the isolation rooms.
“I could never bear to part with it nor has anyone else ever used it. It’s with its master once more, now, let’s go take down evil like we used to.” Phil looks to Ranboo after his heartfelt words, tilting his head. “Think you can get both Eret and Wilbur out if we give you the opportunity? I know you are just starting to be able to teleport with two, do you think you can do it today?”
Their multi-coloured eyes gleamed in determination, smirking. “Leave it to me.”
Walking to the door, Phil’s blue orbs glow as the door handle melts, opening the door to Quackity’s pleading face. The blonde hero raises his weapon before Quackity holds up his hands, gesturing for him to stop. “Please, Schlatt knows you are coming, all I ask is that you take me with you out of here.”
Tubbo and Techno both freeze as the genuine tone throws them off, Phil waiting for the gold-touched man to explain. “He saw you on the cameras and sent me to stall you but I know when I am outnumbered. I never wanted to be here but Schlatt threatened my business if I didn’t comply. I will surrender to the Hero’s Syndicate completely, just let me leave with Wraith and Hiraeth.”
Techno eyes Quackity before deciding for them all, nodding towards Ranboo. “Let’s break them out of their rooms then you can take them in batches.”
Phil, trusting him implicitly, nods and they do as Techno suggested. Watching Phil reunite with his son and Tubbo clutch Eret tight made everything so far worth it, their faces tired from the days they were also in solitude. Schlatt wanted to make them sweat for a while and clearly had been to see none of them, Techno snarled slightly thinking of everything he ever hated Schlatt for.
It was time that man paid for his sins through blood, and this time not others. His specific lifeblood is the only thing Techno would accept.
Ranboo groups up the ones set to escape, Phil casting a pitying look at Eret learning the true extent of their scars as Wilbur guides the weak soul over to Ranboo. Seems their time alone had hit them the most, face drawn with exhaustion and unsure of their surroundings.
“You have quite a lot to catch me up on.” Phil tells Techno, watching Tubbo wish them both well before returning to the two best friend’s sides, looking guilty.
“Stop it, they told you to stop blaming yourself.” The realisation Phil makes watching Tubbo flex his fingers with a sheepish face, clutching his scythe handle closer while Techno affectionately but firmly scolds the sniper. “I will make them say it again when we see them soon, for now, let’s go kill a bastard.”
Sneegsnag joins their group of three and Tubbo leads the way to Schlatt’s office. Phil had handed him a dagger after the boy requested it, preferring to walk into this confrontation armed. Techno had sparred with him enough to know his hand to hand combat skills were as sharp as the blade he carried, trusting his student to defend himself while he took the revenge many years of separation deserved.
“Are you ready?” Techno asked the determined sniper, heart shuddering seeing the marks that will forever coat Tubbo’s hands.
“I was ready yesterday, big man. Let’s get this over with. I want to be onto the next phase of my life.”
Rounding the corner towards Schlatt’s office, three people stand in their way. Purpled, Punz and Fundy all stand at the ready. Techno instinctively lowers his eyes from Purpled’s, the reason he was called the Oracle is if he made eye contact with you, he was deadly accurate predicting your next movements. Punz pushes his white sweater sleeves up above his elbows, skin glittering gold as he prepares himself for a fight. His ability meant he could harden his skin against most attacks, making him an extremely dangerous combo with Purpled at his side telling him what their opponent will do next.
Fundy flickers as he prepares to go invisible, facing the escaped prisoners and their friends; all three have moments of hesitance on their faces. Techno surprises them all by making a show of putting his sword back in the holster Phil had produced for him.
“We don’t want to harm you, only the President.” Techno offers peace, all three trading glances.
“You have been here since I got here Techno, why the sudden change of heart?” Fundy asked, his Dutch accented voice soft as he considered the offer.
“My eyes were opened to the destruction we caused an’ I don’t want to be the scary weapon in the shadows anymore.” Techno looks at Tubbo, offering a small smile. “I want to be free.”
With those words, Purpled started to lower his guard, Punz tossing a questioning look towards the stern blonde. “Same.”
Fundy stays solid for a moment, shoulders slumping. “I only stayed because I have nowhere else to go.”
“Neither do we.” Tubbo smirks, but he waves around the halls they stood in. “The only thing I care about is escaping these dreary halls and finding my own place in the world.”
“Why is Zephyrus of the Hero’s Syndicate with you?” Punz questions, eyeing up Phil where he stands, menacingly with his scythe.
“I’m their escape ticket, mate.” Phil responds, tossing a happy look towards Techno. “I finally found my best friend again, I am not letting him remain here any longer in a place away from those he cares about.”
“Probably should stop letting Schlatt prepare for our arrival, so either move aside, or we will knock you out so we can go past.” Sneeg says confidently, whacking his hammer handle against his hand.
After trading glances one last time, all relax their holds on their abilities and make a show of standing aside, leaving them an open path to the President’s office. Offering a small nod as they walk past, Techno readies his blade while Tubbo pushes the office door open.
The President sits within his chair awaiting them, swirling his usual glass of whiskey as he smirks, perfectly relaxed. Phil’s face turns sour upon seeing the sarcastic smile he wears, making a show of standing directly beside Techno.
“Blood God. Marksman. Zephyrus. Hephaestus.”
“You seem awfully calm.” Techno narrows his eyes, not trusting this. “Why?”
“Because I have something you don’t, Nyx. It was a mistake just leaving her alone in the safehouse you teleported from.” Phil’s eyes widen at that before he bursts out laughing.
“Really, you have captured my wife.” Phil says between gasps, Schlatt now looking unsettled. “Alright President, let’s say I believe she is actually in danger right now. Do you know her true abilities?”
“Nyx is a gifted fighter is how the stories go, so I have some of my strongest agents preventing her escape right now.”
“That is the skill she worked on, yes, but that isn’t her ability that she was born with.” Phil looks at ease as Kristin suddenly joins them, catching the tail end of their conversation.
“Through touch, I can rip someone's soul asunder from their flesh.” Kristin marches to her husband’s side, Schlatt’s calm facade breaking. “You aren’t the only one with touch-based powers, President. Now, do you think you can turn the liquids within me to alcohol faster than I can kill you? Because no one I have ever met has been faster than me.”
Walking around the desk she lays a hand on his wrist, Schlatt’s fingers trembling as she leans down over his shoulder. “I beg you, try me. I can guarantee I will win.”
The President stays silent, Techno stepping forward. “Now that we have the upper hand, I am here to take what you owe me.”
“What is that?” Schlatt’s voice is quiet.
“My life.” In one smooth motion, Techno draws his weapon and slides it straight through Schlatt’s chest.
Pinning him to the chair he sat in, the President’s eyes go blank as blood drips down the reflective steel towards the hilt inlaid with a ruby. Pulling it back out with some resistance, Techno turns back to the others who are watching with a wide stare. Crimson falling towards the floor, Tubbo’s relief makes it all worth it as the boy stares in awe at his teacher.
“We probably could have gotten more information from him but eh.” Phil shrugs, putting his scythe back in his ether storage. “The Syndicate is going to send a team to start clearing out intel here anyways now that I can report M.A.G.’s leader is dead.”
“What do we do from here?” Tubbo asked Techno, looking at him with a questioning face.
What did they do from here? Both himself and the small brunette were known members of this fallen assassin’s guild, especially after the Syndicate located their M.A.G. files with their kill list. Techno’s chest tightened trying to think of a next step before Kristin walks towards Tubbo, intent on comforting him.
“What you do is you are coming home with us.” Phil opens his mouth before Kristin aims a glare his way. “I won’t hear a word about how they aren’t allowed back at headquarters until we figure something out. I will report they are there to the Council myself and then they will be allowed to recover from their prolonged capture.”
“They deserve a chance to feel safe.” Sneeg adds, looking to his older brother. “I will stick my own neck out for them too, we once swore an oath to protect Techno as long as we live and I am intending to keep it.”
Techno didn’t blame his blonde best friend, his strong sense of morals were a huge reason behind him being one of the most beloved Heroes in their great city. Phil looks at Kristin and Sneeg, then he just gives a small laugh before meeting Techno’s gaze.
“Want to come home, friend?”
“More than anything in the world.”
One bullet in the chamber
Breathe easy, take your aim boy
Ain't nobody gonna save you
So what you gonna do?
All eyes on you