Chapter Text
Tommy Theseus Innit, beloved youngest prince of the Summer Court. He had truly grown into that title hadn't he? With large red moth wings, hair as gold as the sun, and the stature to rival everyone around him. At a mere sixteen years old he had already caught up to his brothers in height, and knew how to hold himself to show it. His style took after Wilbur more so than Techno, adorned in reds and whites and golds much like his old style. He still wore Dream’s gloves; Ranboo’s necklace; Tubbo’s brooch even if it didn’t necessarily fit the look. He never seemed to care, too reliant on the reminders of love to give them up. Overall he had become a beloved part of the royal family, even attracting support from the people around them despite his background. If he was honest he could barely remember what it was like to live as a human, stuck on the streets not knowing when his last day would be. He knew it had been bad, the nightmares made sure of it, but he didn’t have to care anymore. That life was far behind him, he had a family and his friends and his people now. He was loved and he was important.
Wilbur, in his infinite wisdom, decided that to celebrate his sixteenth birthday they should return to the human realm to see what had changed. To see the clearing they had bonded in and if Tommy could handle it they could see Ms Willow. Tommy thought of her kindness daily, hoping she was still okay and living comfortably. He wasn’t sure who else was left of that village, Dream never confirmed who was dead and who was alive. Maybe even he didn’t know, there was a lot going on from what he heard. He knew he should be worried about the village people, but he couldn’t find it in himself to care. They had it coming, if it wasn’t then it would have been later. Still, he would go back if it meant seeing Ms Willow again.
Tommy had been instructed to wait in his room for Dream and Wilbur; Dream saying he wanted to bring Sapnap too which Tommy was fine with; and so he waited. Specifically he waited in his garden, a room of plants with a roof of glass. The sunlight beamed into the large room steadily, bathing everything in its warmth and light. Tommy loved it in there, it felt familiar and safe and always calmed his nerves. He had gotten better at taking care of plants too, learning slowly throughout the time he had the room. The first time he had killed a plant he was inconsolable for hours, he remembered it vividly despite it happening multiple years back. The boy sat down on a pile of pillows in the middle of the room, a content sigh escaping him as he enjoyed the sun on his face. He had always enjoyed the sunlight most, learning to take power from it rather than the trees like Wilbur or the ground like Techno. Sure it meant he was weaker in the dark but he didn’t mind, it felt nice to always be warm. That was how Dream found him an hour later, sat with closed eyes and face turned up to the sun. He only smiled fondly as he approached his friend quietly, watching as Tommy only acknowledged him with a hum.
“Hey Sun boy.” Dream crouched down next to Tommy, avoiding disrupting the pillows around him.
“Hey Dream, come to disturb the peace again?” He turned his head down calmly, mourning the loss of the warmth as he looked at Dream. Just as regal as ever, though his mask looked freshly cleaned. Must be a special occasion.
“Not willingly. Wilbur gave me the job of dragging you away, it’s portal time.” He stood up again with ease, holding a hand out to a now excited Tommy.
“Now? Really?” Dream nodded with a laugh as he pulled the other up, steadying the boy as they walked away from the plant life around them. The hallway was empty aside from them, footsteps echoing off the walls as they made their way to Will and Sapnap.
“You sure you’re ready?” He didn’t have to look down anymore, well not as much. Instead he could near enough just look to the side and be at eye level with Tommy.
“Ready as I’ll ever be Big Man.” Tommy was obviously tense but excitement was clear on his face, this day had been a long time coming.
“Alright, just say the word and I’ll get you out of there okay?” Of course Dream was worried about his friend. The last time they saw the village Tommy was injured and nearly passed out, it wasn’t a pretty sight.
“You got it Dream.” He twisted the wooden ring on his finger for comfort. It had seen better days but it was his very first gift, it never left his side unlike the rest of his gifts. The two nodded at each other understandingly before making their way into the large hall, seeing Phil and Kristin talking to his brothers with Sapnap awkwardly on the side. It was clear on the guards face that the sight of Dream was enough to make him comfortable, the man immediately bounding over to his friend.
“Green, Tommy. Finally.” Right, only himself and Sapnap knew Dream’s real name still. It felt weird to call him Green now.
“We didn’t take that long Big S.” Tommy grinned at the shorter Fae, arms crossed over his chest defensively.
“Right, of course you didn’t. Now that you’re here can we go?” Sapnap linked his arm with Dream’s, only laughing at the fake groan of disgust. “It’s been actually forever since I last saw the human realm, I wanna see what’s happening.” The trio made their way over to the rest of the royals, Tommy automatically joining Technoblade’s side.
“Tommy! Finally, we can go. Techno’s coming too by the way, so it’s gonna be a larger group.” Wilbur was ranting, obviously excited or maybe stressed but either way he was ready to go. Techno on the other side looked ready to run, obviously dragged into it by their older brother.
“Please don’t cause trouble lads.” Phil already sounded exasperated, everyone there knowing full well trouble would find them. It was in their nature, somehow, even when they tried their absolute hardest. He wasn’t even sure which one was worse at this point, they were all equally troublesome (even Dream and Sapnap).
“We’ll try!” Tommy grinned at his father, fingers crossed behind his back. A good day out had a little mischief.
“I’ll try to take care of them.” Techno spoke with a sigh, gently smacking Tommy upside the head. Phil could only hope as he watched his youngest try to tackle Techno, reluctantly opening the portal for them.
“Alright you lot, you know the rules. Be back before sundown.”
“Yes sir!” A chorus of voices met him, resulting in a soft laugh from the hidden queen beside him. She wore her veil more often these days, no one was entirely sure why but it certainly made her look more threatening in comparison to the bright looking king. Sapnap, Techno and Wilbur went first to ensure the area was clear and safe, leaving Tommy and Dream to wait patiently for the cue. Tommy silently took Dream’s hand, squeezing it tight as he siked himself up to go through.
“Alright boys, your turn.” Kristin gently patted Tommy on the head, silently encouraging him to go on. It had been awhile since he last saw the world he came from, she hoped it would do him some good to revisit it. Together they made their way through, the royal couple left behind to watch the portal close behind them all. They had things to do while they waited for the return but still they stood for a moment, making sure they wouldn’t rush back immediately.
“Do you think they will be okay?” Phil looked at his mouth, linking his arm with hers.
“Of course, they’re a powerful group.” Kristin smiled up at her husband, her free hand coming up to cup his cheek.
“What about our Sunshine?” He couldn’t stifle the worry he felt for the boy, his on hand coming up to rest atop hers.
“Our boy is finally living My Love, let him learn.”
Tommy and Dream practically fell through the other side, only being caught by Sapnap at the last minute.
“I forgot how much that sucks…” Dream groaned as he steadied himself, head spinning from the new realm's air. It was thick in his throat, only allowing the deepest gasps past. Tommy wasn’t fairing much better beside him, taking large breaths whilst pointedly ignoring his brother's snickers.
“I never realised how hard it is to breathe here.” Tommy glared at the sky, finally adapting enough to breathe normally.
“That’s cause you never came back after turning.” Techno watched the chaos from afar, a hand resting on his swords hilt naturally. He rarely came here after the village’s around grew hostile, it wasn’t worth it in his humble opinion.
“Alright ladies! Enough of the complaints, I wanna see the forest!” Sapnap clapped his hands to get their attention, smirking proudly at the success. “This is my first time and I wanna know what the big deal is.” Wilbur could only roll his eyes at him, standing resolutely by his youngest brother, dragging his younger brother to stand with them too.
“First stop is the river, it’s the closest right Green?” He looked over at the masked man, gesturing around them.
“Right, yeah. Follow me lads.” Dream waved his hand at them as he started onwards, Sapnap taking up the rear with Techno to protect against anyone that may try to go against them. The group patiently followed Dream through the trees, casual conversations between different parties echoing through the familiar trees. Tommy had noted silently that nothing had truly changed around them, everything looked the same as he remembered. It made sense, sure, but it still confused him. The world was meant to be everchanging, had they really found the one constant so quickly? He could still make out the paths he used to follow under the undisturbed leaves and overgrown bushes. The place really had just been abandoned when he left, it was saddening. This forest was too beautiful to stay empty for so long. Distantly he heard Wilbur join Sapnap’s and Techno’s conversation, electing to instead try talking to Dream.
“This place really is the same huh?” He quietly joined the masked man’s side, catching a glimpse of his friend under the mask.
“Yeah. It’s like we never left.” He had the same sad tone as his thoughts, it seemed they were on the same wavelength on this.
“Do you really believe it’s stayed empty for over two years?” Dream wanted to say no, part of him desperate to believe George had returned to look for him, but he still nodded. If there was one thing he had learnt it was that logic was sometimes easier to take than stories.
“Who would be around to explore, the village?” The two laughed quietly at the mere thought of any of them stepping foot in the place. Tommy was certain they would rather risk swimming the ocean to the next land over than attempt crossing the forest. It was laughable, knowing that if they had tried there would be no one to stop them. Their fear was their greatest obstacle.
“What about…?” Tommy didn’t have to specify any further, simply looking in the direction he knew a certain clearing to be.
“I doubt it. He has his precious Winter Court to remain loyal too.” Dream wanted to be bitter, angry even, but he understood it now. Being a part of the Summer Court had been a blessing disguised as a miracle. He always felt so at home there, even if his upward pointed ears gave away his origins.
“Maybe we should make a royal visit? I’ve been meaning to visit Ranboo and Tubbo.” He had that mischievous grin again, it sent shivers down Dream’s spine.
“Go back to the place that considers me a criminal? I don’t think that’s a wise idea.” He was quick to dismiss the idea, tensing up when Tommy’s grin didn’t even falter.
“Right Green. Whatever you say, Green.” He could only glare at the now snickering boy, gently shoving him as they approached the river.
“Don’t. I see the cogs turning in your head kid.” There was no malice behind his words, rather amusement at the thought of Tommy reigniting him with old friends. It was worrying yes but who was he to deny Tom some fun plans.
“I dunno what you’re on about Big D.” Tommy brushed him off before rushing off to see the river, cheering at the sight of the fish. He was quickly followed by an excited Sapnap and a shocked Wilbur. The eldest prince had to practically hold Tommy to stop him from leaning too far and falling into the water. Sapnap on the other hand remained a good distance away, close enough to see but not close enough to risk getting wet. The two could only listen as Tommy let them know everything Dream had taught him about the fish and the river itself. He was clearly excited to share, nearly bouncing with energy. The rambles were momentarily interrupted with loud laughter as a fish splashed Wilbur, leaving the hems of his clothes very wet. Whilst Tommy was clearly entertained Wilbur only groaned and complained, muttering curses about the fish below.
“Come on Will! It’s only a wittle salmon.” Sapnap grinned as he pinched the others cheeks, his baby voice sickeningly sweet. Wilbur glared at the other, swatting his hands away with little care for the others feelings in that moment.
“Says the Fae that won’t even go near the damn river.” His tone was sharp but it only made Sapnap laugh, his grin growing by the second.
“Not my fault I like staying dry!” Will rolled his eyes before going to tackle the other, a new determination to throw the other in the water arising. The two ran around the area, Sapnap narrowly avoiding by ducking behind trees and through bushes. Their antics were only watched by an already exhausted Technoblade, the seemingly only one keeping an eye out for danger as the others messed around. Even with Dream by his side it felt like he was the only one caring, especially when the masked man keeled over with laughter. Signature wheezes filled the air around them, bringing a small smile to the pink haired man's face. Maybe it would be bearable as long as he had a sane Dream beside him, now here’s to hoping he doesn’t get dragged into the random antics of the others around them.
“Green look! A catfish!” Tommy’s voice carried over the laughter, the boy standing up to wave Dream over. Dream hurried to catch his breath before walking over, smiling bright under the mask as he crouched down to see what Tommy was talking about. There in front of them was a river catfish, swimming at the bottom of the clear river under the rushing salmon. The second catfish Dream had ever seen, it was just as interesting as the last time.
“Good find Kid, it blends in with the floor so well.” The two lent over the water to get a good look, ignoring the chaos going on behind them. The moment felt so familiar to the last trip they made there together; they could almost imagine it was just the two of them again after tuning out the desperate pleas of Sapnap. The moment was only broken when Technoblade yelled over the pleas, threatening to throw them both in if they didn’t stop going in circles. It wasn’t necessarily hostile but the two still stopped their chase, apologising to the man with bright smiles. Tommy rolled his eyes at Dream who only snickered in return, the two making their way back up after saying goodbye to the catfish.
“You guys enjoy the river?” Dream helped Tommy up the steeper part, both of them re-joining the party though keeping their distance from Will and Sapnap. Neither felt like having a swim at that time.
“It was alright, not as good as my ring though.” Wilbur replied rather smugly, arms crossed as he looked over at the rushing river.
“Yeah yeah you pretentious idiot. You just can’t see it’s beauty for what it is!” Tommy frowned at his clearly amused brother, protective of his and Dream’s place.
“Whatever you say Toms.” He ruffled his brother's hair affectionately, laughing as Tommy tried whacking his hands away. “Where to next gang?” Dream hummed softly as he considered what was around them, eyes darting across the many paths he had memorised still.
“Well, my area is nearby if Tommy wants to go see that. There’s your clearing a mile or so that way, uhhh…” Dream bit his lip as he thought it through. As much as he explored he didn’t have many landmarks to visit, it was mainly just dense trees and he would very much like to avoid his and George’s spots.
“Your spot?” Techno raised a brow at his friend, standing to the side of the group yet again.
“Yeah, it’s where I lived when I was courtless.” He shrugged calmly, it was still such a normal thing to him. “I’d rather only take Tommy though. No offence to the rest of you but it’s kinda personal.” Tommy felt a shot of pride go through him at that knowledge. He was trusted with another thing Dream held so close, it was enough to make him smile.
“Fair enough.” Will looked at Sapnap with shock, clearly not wanting to leave his youngest brother for much longer than a second or two even with someone as trusted as Dream. “What? His privacy, and he’s clearly not gonna run off with Tommy to some black market.” Wilbur groaned softly, lancing at his brother before nodding reluctantly.
“Alright, fine. Us three can go to my clearing I suppose…” He pinched the bridge of his nose, eyes shut tight as it set in. He trusted Dream, he was fine leaving Tommy in his hands for a short amount of time. “You two better not take forever alright?” He glared at the two, no anger but rather worry behind it. Dream nodded and gestured to his sword hanging limply at his side.
“We’ll be as quick as a deer, Princey. Calm yourself.” Tommy snickered at the look on his brother's face, a strange mix of exasperation and annoyance. It was clear he didn’t want to argue anymore as he led Techno and Sapnap away towards his clearing, following the natural tug in his chest. Dream and Tommy took a separate path, Tommy holding his sleeve just like old times. It made him smile, he and Dream hadn’t done something like this in forever. He missed their adventures. Together they made their way through tall trees and thick bushes, the sound of whispers replacing the steady footfall of the other party members. Tommy hadn’t heard the whispers before but it still felt familiar, like he had heard them all his life. Dream on the other hand smiled fondly, embracing the voices of the world around them just as he had before. It was just like before, except this time they were all safer.
The small clearing was cluttered with leaves by the time they arrived, wind knocking them over and over into new piles as the duo made their way through the small gaps. Tommy wasn’t that impressed, it was just a small area with nothing in it.
“Home sweet home.” Dream sighed, looking up at the familiar area. Only things were different. It looks clean, almost lived in. Had someone taken his area as their own? Tommy followed his gaze up and gasped, taking in the world above.
“That’s so cool.” He had never considered Dream to be a survivor like him at any point, but looking at the area it was easy to accept. They really were similar in more ways than one.
“Ya think?” Dream glanced at the other, satisfied by the nod from the awe filled boy. With a small jump he launched himself into the air, landing gracefully on his hammock. New pillows sat amongst the old blankets he had left, new things were stored in his tree hides, there were even matches tucked in a nest of cotton. It was new, but still he wasn’t worried. How could he be when a familiar pair of glasses stared at him from the nearest tree. Clearly someone had visited and left something behind. Dream let his fingers brush over the glasses. Not acknowledging the hammock dip behind him as Tommy joined him above the world.
“Are those yours?” Tommy stared at the accessory from behind, his chin rested comfortably atop Dream’s shoulder.
“No, they’re his.” His voice was filled with bitter love, conflicting feelings dashing through him. George hadn’t forgotten or left or abandoned him; but still why did it take so long for him to return? Was he now waiting for Dream to return? Damn their eternal cycle, he wanted his friend back. Tommy nodded the best he could as he took in the sight. They weren’t fancy per say, definitely not the style of anyone he knew.
“Should we take them?” He finally gave Dream some space, choosing to look around instead. Dream shook his head, his hand dropping from the glasses and back into his lap.
“No. I think…I wanna leave something for him. To let him know I’m still around.” Dream looked himself over, considering what he could leave behind without drawing suspicion from the others. All he could think of was his necklace, a chain of silver decorated with green jewels. It was one of his outgoing accessories, a gift from a lady in the market. It wasn’t a favourite but it would certainly be a sign he was there. Gently he looped it over his head, laying it beside the all too familiar glasses. He didn’t get time to admire as he heard Tommy screech, the hammock shaking dangerously. Dream clutched onto the sides of the fabric tightly, spinning his head to check on the boy he was meant to protect. There he was tangled in blankets and nearly falling off onto the floor below. It was a humorous sight, or it would be if they hadn’t nearly fell a very large distance.
“Tommy I mean this in the best way possible, what the actual hell?” Dream had to speak through his laughter, struggling as the boy glared daggers at him.
“Don’t just sit there Big man! Help me!” He was no doubt capable of untangling himself but still Dream helped tug the blankets off his arms, keeping him steady inside the hammock and not nearly falling.
“How did you even-?”
“I don’t want to talk about it.”
With much grumbling and many loud complaints Tommy freed himself, declaring the place a death trap before gliding his way back down to the safe ground. Dream rolled his eyes before following him down, casting one last look at the accessories left behind. They’d see each other again.
“Ready to go?”
“Ready when you are Boss man!” Tommy grinned proudly at the other, happily taking the lead towards Wilbur’s clearing. It wasn’t too far from what he remembered, they’d get there before Wilbur started tearing the forest apart for him.
He hoped.
To their relief Wilbur hadn’t started the deforestation yet, but his impatient words could be heard from miles away at the rate he was going. By the time they entered the clearing Tommy was already fed up with it, his first action being to smack Wilbur upside the head.
“Will I swear to Prime if you don’t stop I’m going to drag you back to the river just to push you in.” The threat fell on deaf ears however as instead he was wrapped up in a tight hug, warmth spreading throughout him.
“Finally! You two took forever!” Wilbur made sure to glare at Dream, keeping his brother close to his chest even when the grumbling started. Dream simply shook the look off, returning to Sapnap and Techno’s side to interrupt their conversation.
“Will can I actually look around now?” Tommy’s voice was muffled by his brother's chest, awkwardly shuffling in the other's grip. With obvious reluctance he was freed from his loving prison, though a hand remained in his. He was fine with that. As long as he could see it was fine, besides Will was like a living heater and he adored the warmth. The two made their way around the area together, taking in the clearing that they had claimed as their own. It was peaceful, dare he say even quiet, and that was all he could ask for. Even Techno joined them in their lazy stroll around, linking sights to the memories the two had shared with him in the years before. The three rarely got chances like this, always one of them bursting with too much energy to contain, but still these were some of their favourite moments. To just exist as one for a bit, quiet and steady. Techno would be lying if he said he no longer enjoyed this surprise trip; especially as the sun perfectly illuminated the area around them. Flowers decorated the edge of the treeline sparsely, a nice contrast against the never ending greenery that swarmed their vision.
The stroll was only interrupted when Dream and Sapnap started to argue a bit too loudly for their liking, a petty thing about whether the area was a good place to spar or not. Alas no matter how petty it was it still interrupted the peace, and there was no hope of it returning under these circumstances.
“Thank you for this, Will.” Tommy leant into his brother's side, stood in the same spot he had all that time ago.
“Anytime Sunshine.” Wilbur hugged his brother, smiling at Techno as he nonchalantly joined them. He rarely showed affection so publicly but they were both soft for their youngest brother.
“Are you still wanting to visit the village Theseus? Because if you do we should head there now.” He gestured up at the slowly falling sun, the only one conscious of their time limit apparently.
“Right, yes.” Tommy still felt fear at the mere thought but he owed Ms Willow at least an apology, and he had four extremely well trained fighters at his side constantly. If things went south he had them.
He took the lead again, Dream electing to stay by his side as the first line of protection. Together they led the pack towards the forest's exit, hands finding each other as the cobbled paths came into sight. Dream was certain he could still see blood within the cracks, blood he had drawn. Tommy on the other hand lit up, the sight of fabric peeking out from under some leaves and branches. It was red, a stark contrast to everything around it. Before Dream could catch him he was rushing over, uncovering the mystery item with great care. It was a folded coat, a nice deep red just like the bandana he had gotten years before. There was a note, to his relief, simply saying ‘Stay safe ~W’.
“She didn’t forget me…” The sincere gift was enough to make him tear up, the boy holding the coat close. That was what it was, a gift. Not an offering, not a bargaining for safety or an attempt to get power, a true gift. Dream was tense but still nodded, reassured by the boy's safety.
“Maybe our visit will be a nice surprise then?” He grinned as he heard the steps of the others catching up behind them, turning to see a worried WIlbur and neutral Techno. Sapnap was more busy taking in the sights, wonder filling the man's eyes at the sight of human buildings.
“I hope so.” Tommy slipped the note into his pocket carefully, whining as Techno took the coat to inspect it. Sure he knew it was a safety precaution but that was his gift! Still he let his older brother hold onto it, for now. He had more important things to take care of.
“Alright everyone, here’s the plan. Sapnap, Wilbur and myself will watch from afar. Make sure everything goes smoothly.” He gestured to each of them before turning to the other two royals, arms crossing. “You two will enter the village disguised to the best of your ability. You don’t look too fancy thankfully but I’m more worried about your ears and teeth. Don’t make eye contact and keep moving, no unnecessary stops, got it?” Tommy groaned but nodded, Techno holding a thumbs up before working on hiding his ears with his hair. His was long enough to cover the pointed tips but Tommy would have to rely on the thickness of his hair; it still only reached his shoulders at best.
“Techno, you may want to hide your sword under your cloak unless you want the guards to pick up on you.” Tommy pointed at the weapon, it was well cared for and very obvious. Unlike Tommy he didn’t complain, at least not outwardly, tucking the sword under his large cloak with hopes it would still have fairly easy access.
“Alright, we’re ready. Theseus try not to open your mouth too much okay?” Tommy nodded with a mock salute, giggling as his brother rolled his eyes for what felt like the millionth time that day. It was becoming a habit he definitely didn’t want.
“Alright, we’ll split and hide. You know what to do if you need us.” Sapnap grinned before the three of them disappeared into the village, no doubt going to be hiding in seemingly plain sight. The fae were good at that Tommy had learnt. When they were sure everyone was set they took their first steps out of the forest. The cobble under his shoes felt odd, it wasn’t even like home despite how worn down it had become over the years. His hand naturally found his brothers, Tommy sticking close to his side as they made their way closer to the village.
It was emptier now, that was evident. News of the attack must have driven away most of the market. Blood still left dark patches around the fountain even after what must have been multiple attempts at cleaning. A grim reminder of their gravest mistake. The bakery still stood tall, its doors wide open to reveal a much more grown Jezebelle working behind the counter. The mere thought of talking to her made Tommy’s aura go sour; Techno being quick to calm him so as to not attract attention. Definitely going to avoid the bakery. Mx Cromer’s blacksmith was still open, and was covered in an uncomfortable amount of iron. From bars to weapons to plating, Tommy didn’t even want to think about touching that. Another no no spot.
“There’s Mx Cromer’s, where I stayed every night, Mr Friggin’s bakery…” Tommy was nearly silent as he spoke, ensuring only Techno was able to hear him as he pointed places out. He nearly gasped at the pure relief that flooded his senses at the sight of a familiar seamstress shop, the sound of someone inside reaching his ears even all the way out here. “Ms Willow…” Techno took note of the familiar name, gently guiding them towards the shop with hopes of attracting as little attention as possible. Even when dressed as casual as they could manage it was still a struggle, their wardrobes weren’t designed for such a thing. Tommy had made sure to point it out to their father, insisting even the most royal needed a common outfit for such trips. That matched with their height and naturally intimidating aura? It was bound to be tricky. Still as naturally as they could they made their way to the seamstress, Tommy knocking twice before stepping in, Techno bringing up the rear. Inside was empty of life, fabrics and buttons and sewing supplies decorating every surface. Nothing had changed.
“Ms Willow?” His voice carried through the shop naturally, a joyful edge to his tone.
“Coming!” She still sounded the same, just as determined as ever. Tommy couldn’t be happier at something not changing. It didn’t take long for her to swing round the corner with a half finished scarf over her shoulder, stopping in her tracks at the sight of Tommy. Just like him she had grown, starting to show signs of her age. More wrinkles from smiling etched into her face, grey hairs had started to grow in with the brown; she also bore a cane though Tommy was sure that had nothing to do with her age.
“Toms? Is that really you?” She immediately dropped her half-finished project on a pile of spare lae, making her way over to the two. Her shaking hands made their way up to his face, fingers brushing against skin as if to make sure she wasn’t dreaming. A watery smile grew on his face as he nodded, his free hand coming up to rest atop hers.
“It’s me Ms Willow.” The sight of his new unnaturally sharp teeth was enough to startle her, the woman jumping back in surprise as she took in the boy. He had certainly grown, especially compared to the small lanky boy he used to be.
“What happened to you?” She didn’t sound scared like he thought she would be, but then again she had never shown fear of anything or anyone.
“I went home.” He tried to appear less threatening, glancing at Techno who was only watching out for any unexpected visitors. She took a large breath before reapproaching him, having to look up to meet his eyes now. There was no doubt about it, he was no longer human. But he looked happier, healthier, and she was sure by the presence of the stranger that he was far more loved.
“I’m glad you found it, Thomas.” Neither of them mentioned what home was, she was smart enough to figure it out. There were more than enough clues to point to the answer. “Why did you come back though? Surely it’s even more dangerous for you now?” There was the fear, not for herself but for others. Her concern was refreshing to him, a reassurance she did care.
“I came back to make sure you were okay. I’m safe, I won’t stay long.” His smile was contagious but still she worried, she had heard the rumours that started after he left.
“Toms you have to go back. Mx Cromer has gone mad with vengeance after what happened. They plan to have the whole forest wiped clean of magic, even willing to go as far as to burn it down completely.” She wasn’t stupid, she knew Mx Cromer was willing to do anything to protect the village. The news had both Tommy and Techno on edge however. Such an act would be like declaring war on every Court the Faerie world had to offer, and that was the best case scenario for the humans.
“Mx Cromer wants to do what? No they’re gone, my friend made sure of that.” Tommy had been sure they had died that night, it was one of the reasons he was fine with coming back, the knowledge that they wouldn’t be there. Ms Willow shook her head with a frown, glancing out the window quickly.
“No no. They lived, albeit they didn’t leave without their fair share of scars. Now they’re certain that that forest needs to go.” Her tone was hushed, as if afraid she was being listened to even despite Techno’s diligent watch.
“We can’t let that happen! It’s important to so many, not just the Fae!” Tommy had to whisper yell, not wanting to anger Techno for compromising their position.
“I agree, that forest has been a home and an escape for many species since it was first grown.” Techno’s monotone voice caught Ms Willow off guard but still she nodded in agreement, taking Tommy’s hand in her own.
“Tommy I know it’s important but there’s no stopping them. They have nearly the whole village on their side, and a ludicrous amount of iron to make up for those that disagree.” She still remembered the first day Mx Cromer had bought bulk boxes of iron, immediately getting to work forging more weapons as well as shields and chains. She had made it clear none of it was to come near her shop but it still decorated the rest of the damned area.
“We have to find a way, surely he can help?” Tommy directed his attention to Techno, the ‘he’ referred to being very obvious to the brothers.
“We’ll certainly have to let him know, and the others.” Techno’s hand rested on the hilt of his sword as he watched the world outside, defence rising as more information was brought to light. “That forest cannot be touched.”
Ms Willow watched the brothers with bated breath, her hands clasped in front of her. She couldn’t help physically but she could find out information for them.
“I’ll keep my ears open Toms but you have to go before people realise you’re here, there are eyes everywhere.” She gently urged them to the door, using her cane to push at his feet. The two Fae stood at the door, waiting for the opportune time to leave.
“It is appreciated Ms Willow,” Tommy gave her one last smile, warmth spreading through his veins as she smiled back.
“Anytime Toms, my shop is always open to you and yours.” She quietly waved them off as they left, quick to throw herself back into her work when they were out of sight.
With a groan Tommy looked at his brother, worry in his eyes as they made their way to the edge of the forest once again.
“So, who wants to break the news to Dad?”