Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

His fingers grip the cool metal of the fire escape, curling around it as he glanced up at the towering building in front of him. He smiled, feeling a wave of excitement wash over him as he began to nimbly climb up the fire escape, keeping his movements light and quiet, a skill he had learned from thieving.

He wasn’t a villain, by any means, but if he sees something shiny he’s going to take it. It’s that simple.

He jumps over the railing of the fire escape, landing on the gravely roof with a soft thud, blue eyes looking up at the full moon that bathed the city in pale, white light.

He wore a black mask, that was basically just a scarf he had wrapped around his mouth and nose a couple times before tying it off at the back, as he did not have access to a better, proper mask. He should probably get a real mask, but that was too out of his budget at the moment. Maybe when he was like, rolling in riches he would get one.

He had on an old faded red hoodie and ripped jeans that had a lot of dirt and grass stains on them, along with a pair of fingerless leather gloves he stole from a hotel room one time. Man, he loved his fucking job. People were always leaving shit behind.

A cool summer breeze ruffles his hair, bringing along with it the exquisite smell of the city that no one fucking enjoyed. There was barely any cars or civilians on the streets at such a late hour, which was nice for him, especially since he was a vigilante-in-training. Fewer people to point at him, record him, or tip off the heroes of an illegal vigilante in the area.

He had only just begun his vigilante career— it would be a shame for it to end so soon, especially before he can become famous!

“Tommy? Tommy fucking innit—“ Tubbo says over the ear piece, typing away on his keyboard, his voice super loud over the ear piece for no reason at all. Tommy winced, holding a hand up to his ear as he scowled.

“Tubbo? No need to be so loud, bitch. Your going to make me go fucking death.“ Tommy grumbles, groaning in mock pain as he hears Tubbo sigh from the other line. The audacity he has.

”Alright, boss man, there’s a commotion not far from your location, it doesn’t seem life-threatening so I think you should be fine,” Tubbo replies as he begins typing on his keyboard again. Tommy scrunches up his face, quickly scanning his surroundings. Of course he would be fine! He was the biggest man there ever was ever.

“I can handle bigger cases—“ He began, beginning to walk along the roof top. He needed bigger cases if he ever wanted to get noticed one day for his brave heroics, and possibly become a hero.

That was his dream, after all, to become the strongest, most loved hero of all time. Fuck the Angel(he is a great man, the best man), he will rise above him in all of his godly glory.

“Nope, no, no to the fucking no—“ Tubbo cuts him off as Tommy rolls his eyes, rolling his shoulders to try and get the itch out of his back.

“I’m a big man—“ He argued, picking at his nails. A bad habit he had, that he should work on breaking, but that takes to much effort and plus he didn’t have the time, you know, being a vigilante and all.

“Your fifteen— fifteen! You're lucky I even allowed you to go out!” Tubbo shot back at him, earning a sigh from Tommy. He can’t believe he just pulled out the age card. He could only respond in one way that he knows is the best come back in history.

“Your not my mom.” He retorts as he crosses his arms, a grin pulling at his lips.

“And don’t forget, this is like, what, your second time out?” Tubbo huffs, clearly annoyed with Tommy. Tommy imagined him scooting back in his chair and glaring at the screen with a pouty face.

“Well, it's actually my third time—“ Tommy corrected him, laughing as Tubbo made a frustrated noise.

”Enough! Fly on, bird boy, before I tell you the wrong address.” Tubbo threatens and Tommy grumbles, a familiar- annoying- ache in his back.

He was an avian, living in a city full of different hybrids and such alike, but only Tubbo knew he had wings. Tommy kind of hated them, the big red things always getting in the way and how they’re literally a target on his back. Not to mention how there was only like, two avians in this whole fucking city.

He wants to fly. He really does— even if he may hate his wings slightly— with the wind in his hair, the endless sky stretched out in front of him, and big, white puffy clouds… it gave him such a sense of freedom nothing else could ever compare to.

“Tommy? Are you going yet?” Tubbo’s voice snaps him out of his daydream. He sighs before pausing, frowning. Whoops, he had been zoning out.

“What was the address again?”

~~~~

When Tommy arrives at the scene of the crime, he finds himself in a difficult situation. Down below in a dark, dirty alleyway stands one of the greatest heroes of all time— the Dark Angel— the biggest man ever, the one and only, practically a god— who is also his favorite hero. He has to stop himself from launching down there and fan-girling over him, even though he really, really wants to.

He has wings as black as the night sky, that he proudly displays, the black feathers shifting with every slight movement, glistening in the moonlight. He couldn’t help but feel a pang of jealously creep up his chest. The man wore a green and white bucket hat, along with green robes that made him look fucking ancient- like he was out of the Roman times or some shit.

There always seemed to be an aura of power and calmness that settles around him, like a cloud, that makes the people around him involuntarily trust and relax around him. It was even working on Tommy, as his placements were sluggish and he accidentally pushed a small pebble off of the roof down to the alley way below.

The Angel tenses, before he tilts his head to look Tommy dead in the eyes. Tommy freezes, his limbs as heavy as lead as he stared straight at the Angel himself— oh fuck, oh fuck he was done for he was going to drag Tommy in and have him arrested and his whole life would be over oh shit oh shit- who would be left to annoy Tubbo?

He snaps out of his trance as the Angel turns to the person laying on the ground, unconscious, most likely the man who Tubbo sent him after. A terrifying darkness creeps out from the ground and swarms the man, and before Tommy can even blink he is up and shooting across the roofs, adrenaline racing through his veins, his wings itching to be let out. Another avian around seems to make him more sensitive to his instincts and wings, as he feels a chirp building up in chest.

He is darting across rooftops, occasionally tripping on a ledge or stumbling, muttering mutable strings of curses under his breath as he pushes his legs to their max, adrenaline pumping through his veins as he fucking bolts for his life. His muscles were burning and his lungs are screaming at him to stop, but the fear of the Dark Angel catching him kept him going.

He heard the flapping of powerful wings behind him, slowly catching up to him from behind as a dark shadow engulfs him. Tommy lets out a small shriek of fear, running faster as he tried to escape the hero pursing him.

Strangely enough he finds the sound of flapping wings rhythmic, familiar, a deep longing in his back burning— until the ground beneath him is suddenly gone, and oh, there was an alley there.

“Oh fuck!” He shrieks, his eyes widening in panic as there was no longer ground underneath him, instead about a fifty-foot drop. Oh man, he really fucked up this time, didn’t he? He was going to fucking die and Tubbo would be so alone without him and the world would mourn his death and the Dark Angel would forever have a guilty conscience of killing some random bird kid.

Would there be enough time for his wings to sprout their way out, rip through his sweatshirt, and glide him to safety? Probably not. But that didn't stop the familiar sensation of his wings growing out of his back, and he could feel his old red sweatshirt expanding before it would inevitably tear at the seams.

He was crying out in terror, for anyone- anything to save him from his untimely death! He didn’t want to die! Tears streamed down his face as he betted on his wings popping out and catching him before he went splat on the concrete below.

His savior came in the form of a black-winged hero who was definitely still chasing after him, as he grabbed Tommy, under his armpits, and flew him back up to the rooftops, out of harm's way.

To Tommy’s surprise, he didn't expect what came next. He was thinking that the man was going to cuff him, detain him and fly him off to jail where his identity would be revealed and then he’d be thoroughly fucked. But the bastard hugged him, as the big black wings engulfed him, and Tommy finally realized why: he had been chirping like a fucking baby bird this whole time. Fuck, this was embarrassing. He could feel the heat rush to his cheeks.

Not only was this the one person he looked up to but he was also just being chased by him! A hero had just been chasing a vigilante, which said vigilante was illegal— very fucking illegal. He was also a big man- he didn’t need hugs! (Even if his whole body had been shaking and he barely opened an eye as The dark Angel chirped reassuringly to him. Fuck his instincts and fuck The Dark Angel.)

Tommy snapped open his eyes when he felt fingers ruffling through his feathers, expertly preening his messy wings. He froze, his whole body tensing as his blue eyes snapped to the hand in his red and white feathers, smoothing down a feather that had been sticking out funnily.

Only he was allowed to do that.

He pushed himself out of the Angel's grip, stumbled, and fell on his butt— so very graceful, mind you. His whole body was still shaking from the shock of plummeting and almost fucking dying. The Angel was still chirping at him and he couldn’t help but feel the need to go back to his open arms and hide under his wings—

“What the fuck?” Tommy breathed out instead, as he stared wide-eyed up at the Angel, one of the most feared hero’s in the whole world- Tommy’s hero- who was just hugging a random bird kid.

He feels the pull of his instincts, at the front of his mind, confusing him. The Angel is saying thats its safe, everything is okay, with his chirps, his wings rustling as if he wanted to wrap Tommy up in them, hide him away from the world.

Was it bad that Tommy didn’t seem so opposed to that?

The Angel stared back at him, with his bird-like mask that hid his eyes, as he tilted his head in a bird like fashion, as if confused. Tommy took the moment to check himself for injuries, his heart was pounding still and his hands were shaky, but other than that he felt fine.

His red and white wings were out, in all their shitty glory, feathers going every which way from being trapped in his hoodie. They were a mess, a complete and utter mess but Tommy wouldn't have it any other way.

“Uh, hello? Old man, can you hear me?” Tommy shakily asked as he waved his hand, gaining a bit of his confidence back, as he jumped up on his shaky feet. The Angel’s wings settled behind his back as he regained his composure, clearing his throat awkwardly.

“Hey, mate.” He said after a long pause. His voice was kind, almost annoyingly so, making Tommy wince. Tommy could feel the Angel’s stare burn against him, as he avoids making eye contact, instead his eyes drifting down to his taloned hands. They were made of a silver, almost black metal, matching his wings.

Tommy did not want to be on the receiving end of that.

“How old are you?” The Angel asks suddenly, concern and horror in his tone.

Tommy's eyes widen as he realizes the biggest mistake he ever made— his scarf was gone from his face and instead had fallen around his neck, allowing the hero full view of his face. His blue eyes went wide and his mouth hung open in shock as his brain short-circuited for a moment. He probably looked very dumb in that moment of realization.

“Oh shit—“ He splutters out as he pulls up his scarf, fumbling nervously with the fabric as he curses under his breath, taking a step back. The Angel takes a small step forward, reaching out towards him as if he was concerned about him.

Fuck that! Tommy was getting the fuck out of here, avian or not.

“Uh, I’m eighteen! Eighteen, I’m a big man, the biggest in fact, no need to go and arrest me and all—“ Tommy rambles on as he gets closer to the edge of the building, his wings puffing out in panic.

“You saw nothing, yeah? Otherwise, I’d have to make you swear upon your— your, uh, life! This never happened, its far too embarrassing, might as well forget the scared look you had on your face.” Tommy laughed awkwardly as he got closer to the ledge, rambling as thoughts raced through his mind at a hundred miles an hour. The Angel seemed confused by him as he titled his head in a typical bird-like fashion, something he seems to do a lot.

“I'll just be going, no need to waste your important time, yeah? Oh! I've been meaning to say this, but I hope you are doing well and all.” He stuttered out before twisting and lunging off the ledge, leaving behind a confused Angel.

“Hey— wait!” The Angel calls after him, but to his pleasure he doesn’t try and pursue him.

Thankfully.

He’s not sure what he would have done if the Dark Angel had decided to follow after him. Probably… run and hide. That would be best, considering he is fucking powerless.

He flies away into the night, his wings flapping with the extra effort to keep him higher up in the sky, fearful of who would see him like this. He did not want anyone taking a video of him with wings.

His heart was pounding in chest, with some heart palpitations mixed in there as he tries his best to gain control over his nerves.

He ran his hand through his hair, frustrated about how badly he fucked up. Not only did the Angel see his wings but also his face- two factors that could easily identify him- and he also embarrassed the fuck out of himself. He should put an end to his vigilante career…

But… he met his hero! The Angel himself— in all his scary and intimidating glory! He couldn’t help but smile at that. Maybe he wouldn’t end his career. If the Angel didn’t tell anyone(which he most likely would), Tommy would be fine. Even if it’d be a little risky.

He’d be fine. Right?

“Tu— Tubbo?” He asks as he presses his finger on the earpiece, his voice shaky and wavering ever so slightly.

“Yeah? You alright, big man?” Tubbo asks, concern clearly lacing his voice.

“I'm coming home early.” Tommy mumbled, feeling exhausted and drained from his encounter.

How was he still fucking alive?

~~~~

“You're going out again after that happened? Tommy- how stupid are you?” Tubbo asked as he caught him sneaking out the window, one leg already out as he was eyeing the alleyways for anything suspicious.

It had been a whole week of Tommy staying inside, mildly terrified of what would happen if the Dark Angel found him again, but he finally worked up the courage to go out. Which he was going to go out, no matter what Tubbo said— because, well, fuck him!

“I’m not stupid! Just because I ran into the Angel of all the heroes- and mind you I got away- doesn’t mean my vigilante career has to end.” Tommy huffed as he crossed his arms, resting against the window ceil, feeling the cool breeze that was blowing by ruffle his blonde hair.

Tubbo was shorter than him, with brown hair slightly longer than his, along with the faded green shirt he always wore and boring brown shorts. Tubbo’s eyes were a dull blue, that seemed to shift between a faint green and hazel most days.

“Tommy, I’m warning you right now…” Tubbo said in a deeper voice, shooting daggers at him as he tried to be stern but all Tommy got from him was annoyance.

Tommy didn’t see the problem here. He ditched the scarf for a proper mask this time, he had even bought a brand new red sweatshirt just for his outfit even if it took him all week to get enough spare money for it! His old sweatshirt had ripped straight through the back, with a big hole in it now. He was planning on sewing it up but just didn’t get around to it, like most things.

“But mom!” Tommy said in a high whiny voice, dragging out the word mom as he stared down at Tubbo, pouting.

“I said no!” Tubbo stomped his foot on the ground, glaring up at him. Tommy narrowed his eyes before smiling behind his mask, feeling a little giddiness rise up in his chest.

“I'll pick up some snacks on the way home, bye!” Tommy said and flung himself out the window before Tubbo had time to respond. He landed on the fire escape below, the metal clanging as he climbed up the stairs to the roof.

He went to go tap his earpiece to only find nothing in his ear, whoops, he had forgotten it in his rush. Well, he wasn't going back for it, it belonged to the controlling mother living in his apartment now.

He quickly scanned the rooftops before darting off in the direction of where he met the Angel. Maybe he would see him again, not that he wanted to of course, but still! He missed the avian, and maybe the bird in his head too, but he didn’t want to talk about that.

A sudden commotion grabbed his attention to the street sidewalk, where a little kid was fighting off a shady-looking man who had grabbed him around the collar of his shirt. Tommy frowned, slowly creeping up closer, keeping his footsteps light and quiet as he stared down at the two from the roof tops.

“Let me go!” The kid screamed out, kicking and shouting at his attacker as he tried to get away.

“Shut it will ya— hey!” The man slurs out, as he sluggishly grabs the kid's collar of his shirt to drag him along.

Tommy watches from the rooftop, narrowing his eyes at the scene unfolding below him. He honestly can’t believe some people— like what the fuck did that kid even do? They’re just a kid, and some weirdo was trying to steal him or something!

“Hey, why don’t you pick on someone your own size?” He shouted from above, as he grabbed onto a pole and slid down it, all the way to the ground. The attacker froze, before taking another swig from his bottle as if he wasn't bothered that someone literally dropped down from the rooftops.

“Who the fuck are you?” He slurred out, with a tight grip on the kid still as he turned his attention onto Tommy. His eyes were glazed over, his hair was a mess, and his posture was lopsided. He was defiantly wasted, the prick.

Tommy crossed his arms in offense, shaking his head as if he were disappointed.

“You haven’t heard of me? Me? Wow, I’m real disappointed, like, how could you not know who I am?” He shook his head in mock hurt. He didn’t actually have a vigilante name yet… he was thinking something like Big Man Innit, or Wife Haver, or maybe even Clementine—

“What y-you trying to do, kid? Play hero?” The man slurred out, unsteady on his feet yet somehow he still seemed fully there, in the head, as if he was the wisest being alive and everyone should sit and listen to his words.

“I am a hero—“ Tommy began but the man laughed, cutting him off. Tommy bristled as he watched him, “You know it’s rude to cut someone off like that, prick—“

“You know… you know what’s gonna happen? You’re- gonna get in deep shit… and then this little game of- of dress-up of yours’ll come back to bite you in the end— you’ll end up dead.” His tone was deadly serious, as he seemed to see straight through him, as if he knew everything to ever be. Tommy shifted uncomfortably on his feet from the sheer intensity of it.

“You’ve got quite the imagination there, fella. But I’m too big of a man myself to die!” Tommy said as he clapped his hands together, “Now, if you kindly let go of this kid then I won’t have to kick your ass—“ The kid slammed his heel down on the man's foot, making him lose his grip before the kid ran off down the street, sneering at the drunkard as he skirted around a corner.

“Ow— fucker!” The man shouted after the kid, dusting off his shoe with a few slurred curses. Tommy couldn’t help but laugh at the sight.

“That was hilarious- I didn’t even have to do anything!” Tommy snorted while the man glared at him.

“Fuck off.” The man grumbled as he took another drink before turning around and walking in the opposite direction. Tommy watched him, taking a step forwards before stopping himself. What did vigilantes do when they found someone committing a crime? They obviously beat them up and save the day- of course- but they must turn them in to the police. Yeah, the police. Or the heroes? Probably both.

He decided he would let the man get off easy for now, out of the generous kindness he has in his heart- but only this once, if he ever saw him again he would not hesitate to apprehend him!

He climbed back up the building to get to the roof, slowly struggling to haul his body up the side as he gripped onto the railing, pulling himself up and over, only to find the Angel there waiting for him like some stalker. Tommy flinched backwards with a little yelp, almost falling off the roof as he clung on desperately to the side, embarrassment creeping its way up his spine.

“What the fuck— you scared me, old man!” Tommy said as he grabbed onto the edge and hauled himself up onto the roof, warily eyeing the Angel. He looked exactly the same as a week ago, with his big black wings displayed proudly behind him and his bird mask, posed in his classic hero pose too, the prick.

“Sorry, mate.” He said apologetically but he could tell he was smiling at him. Tommy shot him a glare as he crossed his arms, his back feeling itchy as he stared at him.

“What do you want? You're not stalking me, are you..?” Tommy asked, raising an eyebrow at him. The Angel held out his hands in surrender, shaking his head with amusement.

“No, of course not! I just saw you and decided to check in on you.” He titled his head to the side with a small shrug, staring intently at him.

“Where are your wings, Theseus?” He chirped at him, and Tommy reeled back startled— The-se-us? But most importantly, the Angel just fucking chirped at him. He could feel one bubbling up in the back of his throat but he coughed and squashed it down.

“Theseus? Who is Theseus?” Tommy spluttered out. The Angel just laughed, his black wings shifting behind him, almost mockingly.

“I told my so— some friends of our encounter,” The Angel coughed, “But don't worry, I didn't tell them I saw your face, but I did tell them how you fell off the roof just like Theseus did in the greek stories.” He explained as he sat down, looking so… welcoming, and peaceful.

Its kind of jarring, seeing the Dark Angel so… relaxed, and human, when all Tommy’s seen of him was on the news beating the shit out of villains or doing speeches.

“The Blade is really into greek mythology.” He huffed as he shook his head fondly.

“Theseus, huh?” Tommy said. He kind of liked it. Also, does that mean the fucking Blade had given him a name? That is so cool! He can’t wait to brag about this to Tubbo, he’s going to be so jealous.

“Anyways— why are you here again? Don’t tell me you're going to lecture me about how dangerous being a vigilante is, yadda yadda…” He said as he shifted his weight on his feet, an all too familiar ache in his back starting.

“I'm certain you already know how dangerous it is, but no matter what I say you aren’t going to stop.” He shrugged, speaking honestly. Tommy couldn’t help but find himself starting to relax, the tension in his shoulders dropping. He felt like he could trust the Angel.

“Your right, I wouldn’t. I'm such a big man, I could handle anything, bitch.”

“I'm certain you could…” The Angel muses.

”Is that sarcasm?” Tommy huffed, crossing his arms.

“No, of course not!”

“I think it was— are you calling me weak?”

“Where did you even get weak from?” The Angel laughed, making Tommy laugh himself. It was contagious and he couldn't stop himself, this just felt so… right. It was weird, and new, and something that maybe Tommy could get used too.

Something fluttered up in his chest, some emotion he didn’t recognize— emotions were for pussies anyways. But it was still there, at his fingertips, as he stares down at the Angel who was sitting before him, when Tommy should be the one below him.

“You know, you're pretty cool for how old you are,” Tommy said as he sat down in front of the Angel, crossing his legs.

“You're pretty cool yourself.” The Angel says with a small nod, making Tommy smile, his chest swelling.

“Really? That means so much to me— my favorite hero calling me cool! All my friends will be jealous!”

“I'm your favorite? I'm honored.” The Angel chuckles, his dark wings shifting behind him.

“You know, you're like a father figure to me, Angel. What if you adopted me?” Tommy joked, and the Angel was sent into a laughing fit. Though maybe Tommy was watching his reaction a little too closely, the way the Dark Angels fingers twitched, his wings fluffing out just the tiniest.

“Maybe I will, kid. Don't tempt me.” The Angel joked, yet his words seemed to spark something in Tommy, that maybe he would actually adopt him. The Angel causally ran a hand through his black feathers before looking back at Tommy.

“How come you hide your wings?” He asked, and the question must have been bothering him for a while because he was staring intently at Tommy from behind his mask.

“Uh, that’s a rather personal question—“ Tommy says, glancing away as he rubs the back of his neck.

”Ah! I'm sorry—“ The Angel immediately says. Wow, what a man, a truly great person.

“No, no, it's fine!” Tommy exclaims, his blue eyes widening,”If you must know…” Tommy began as he paused for a second, thinking about what he should say. Should he be truthful to the Angel? He had wings, maybe he would understand..?

“I hide them because it puts a mark on my back, you know? It's also really recognizable, since there are not many people with wings round’…” His voice trailed off as he blinks slowly, his eyes trialing to see the Angels reaction. He was scared that people would think of him differently, see him as something he wasn’t. Avians didn’t live in the cities for a reason.

“I understand…” The Angel says slowly, still processing his words and the implications they could hold, “I hope you take care of them, though?” He asked curiously, his tone lightening up a little bit.

“Yeah- I do. I preen them every night…” Tommy puased, his leg bouncing up and down, “Why do you care?” Tommy said, shaking his head. How did they get into this conversation?

“They looked pretty messed up when I saw them last.” The Angel stated, a worried tone in his voice.

“Well, maybe that was because they ripped through my fucking sweatshirt?” Tommy said defensively, shooting him a pointed glare. Who was he to come around and say his wings were unkept?

“That… makes sense.” He chuckled.

“Moving on… how come you aren’t trying to turn me in?” Tommy asked, leaning forward a bit. The Angel considered his question for a while with a thoughtful hum.

“Well, you're not doing anything wrong really. And your just a kid.” He said sincerely before looking back at him.

“I'm not a kid!” Tommy bristles, fuck that, he stopped being a kid a long time ago.

“But— just because I won’t turn you in doesn’t mean the others will leave you alone, either, Theseus.” He warned him and Tommy frowned. Of course he wouldn't be safe from the others- he really shouldn’t even trust the Angel, either.

“Noted, but I’m sure I can handle myself.”

“I worry for your safety.” He chirped and Tommy blinks, holding back his own chirp. The Angel must know what he’s doing and Tommy despises it, glaring at him.

“You should be worrying about your old age.” Tommy shot back.

“I'm not that old you little shit—“ His communicator buzzed, cutting him off. The Angel held it up in his hand, before sighing, “I’ll see you around, Theseus.” He stood up, his wings spreading out behind him as he stretched.

“Be safe, kiddo!” The Angel waved at him before taking off into the night sky, leaving behind Tommy. What a strange guy.

Tommy barely got any sleep after his strange interaction with the Angel- one of the most powerful heroes, not to mention his favorite hero— he was replaying their conversation over and over in his head. He didn’t tell Tubbo because he knew Tubbo would freak the fuck out and ban him from going out ever again.

He was sitting on their brown couch, watching the tv as the news played. He had his wings out, wrapped around him for warmth and comfort, as he watched the Angel and Specter fight Spade, a super fucking cool villain. Spade could stretch and shift his body just like the slippery bastard he was, and dodge every bullet or punch sent his way. Specter was similar to a ghost, he could phase through things and turn invisible, rather lame if you asked him.

“Breakfast is ready!” Tubbo says as he placed his plate on the coffee table in front of him, steam coming from the eggs and toast as the smell makes his stomach grumble.

“Thanks…” Tommy mumbled out, yawning as he stretched his arms and legs out before grabbing the plate of eggs and quickly eating them all, munching on his toast after he had finished his eggs.

“You better get ready for work, or you’ll be late,” Tubbo commented as he sat down beside him, pushing his wing out of the way.

“Hey- bitch! Alright, alright… I’m going…” Tommy grumbled as he stood up, putting his plate in the sink before going to his bedroom.

They lived in a rather nice(in Tommy’s opinion) apartment, one of Tubbo’s uncles was gracious enough to pay their rent every month, so they just had to worry about food and anything else they wanted. They had a small kitchen, with stained countertops, an old microwave, a small tv on the wall with a couch and coffee table in front of it. Then there were three doors leading to a bathroom, and two small bedrooms. It was rather cozy.

Tommy walked into his bedroom, his wings retreating into his back. He kicked aside all the blankets that fell off of his bed from sleeping(or rather, nesting) in them and put on his uniform for work, a red blazer that had the name of the hotel stitched on it, with a black shirt under it, accompanied with a red bow tie and black dress pants. It was rather overkill if you asked him, having to wear a fucking fancy-ass suit and all, but thats what he gets for working at a fancy hotel.

Honestly, he had no clue how he got a job at one of the fanciest hotels in all of L’Manberg, but Sam seemed to really like him, and he was good at carrying luggage around, so maybe he was qualified for it.

As he walked back out, still fiddling with his bow tie, Tubbo was pale and staring at his phone with shaky hands, his eyes starting to water.

“Tubbo? Is everything alright?” Tommy asked, staring at him for a moment before he rushed over to his side, glancing at the phone quickly before up at Tubbo, before double-taking. He grabbed the phone out of his hands and read the message Tubbo was freaking out over.

Tommy read over the text, frowning as he read it. Tubbo’s uncle was telling them they had to move out, that he could no longer pay for their apartment. Oh shit, oh fuck, this was not good at all.

Tommy visibly paled as he looked at Tubbo who was on the verge of a panic attack.

“Tubbo— Tubbo! Look at me, big man! We’ll get through this, we always do, don’t we? It's you and me against the world.” Tommy said frantically as he turned off the phone, not bothering to respond to his uncle. He was trying to keep himself pieced together at the moment, for Tubbo’s sake.

“You don’t understand, Tommy… we have only a thousand dollars in our savings, that won't get us anything… you barely fucking work, I make almost nothing— we can't afford this!” Tubbo ran his hands through his hair, his brain going a thousand miles an hour.

“I can pick up more shifts— get another job if I have too.” Tommy was starting to ramble, “We could always look for another roommate to help pay rent, we could sell everything we don’t need— furniture? Let’s sell it. Even the things this apartment came with we can sell- I’m sure we could find someplace that would take us, surely? I could always ask Sam if we could stay in a room while we search for a place, I’m sure he would let us—“

”Tommy!” Tubbo snapped at him, making Tommy shrink away. Tubbo shot him a guilty look at him before sighing.

“Sorry… it's just… I need to think, okay? And your going to be late.”

“Okay, big man. See you later.” Tommy said quietly, grabbing his bag, casting one last glance at Tubbo as he scanned the apartment, closing the door behind him. He hadn’t realized he had been holding his breath as he let it out, running a hand through his hair as the full gravity of the situation came tumbling down on him.

Fuck, what were they going to do?

Chapter Text

Everything had been so solid, so sturdy— his life seemed to be going in a good direction. Tubbo was happy, admittedly a little worried about Tommys booming and extremely successful vigilante career, but overall he was happy. That made Tommy happy. It had all been good until those two texts went through.

He let out a disgruntled noise before collecting himself and walking down the hall and down the stairs and before he knew it he was halfway across the shady part of the part of L’manberg he lived. He paused in front of the red and black building of Sam’s hotel, looking up at the bad-ass-looking building. He always called it Big Innit Hotel, because it was big innit? He tried to push out the thoughts of this morning away as he walked in, not surprised at the empty lobby. It usually got busier during the night shifts.

What caught his eye was Sam standing in the lobby at the front desk with an employee Tommy had never seen in his life before. He wore the same uniform as Tommy did, with fluffy brown hair, similar to his own. He was tall; taller than him, and that was saying a lot. He was laughing at something Sam said as Tommy walked up.

“Hey, boss, who’s this?” Tommy asked as he glanced at the new guy before looking at Sam. Sam wore a completely red suit, very fancy, very expensive— something way out of Tommy's budget. Tommy would never buy such an expensive piece of clothing too begin with—

“This is Wilbur, I just hired him,” Sam said as he looked at Tommy. Sam had green and black hair slicked back, all shiny and shit, professional-looking, with calculating green eyes. He was the second smartest person he knew, asides from Tubbo that no one could out-smart, ever— trust him, he’s tried and failed miserably. Sam was shorter than them both, but he had a body-builders frame, with big muscles and shit. He wasn't really in the hotel often, something important must be happening today.

“Hi, Wilbur.” Tommy deadpanned, stared straight at Wilbur, eyeing him up. Wilbur raised an eyebrow before looking at Sam.

“I was going to make Jack show you the ins and out, but now that Tommy is here he can do that!” Sam patted Tommy on the back, smiling encouragingly at them both. Jack was the right-hand man to Sam, even though sometimes Jack thought he was the boss, which he wasn’t, never would be, Sam would always be his boss, and he wouldn’t mind tripping Jack to get his point across—

“Actually I think I’d prefer to have Jack show me around than this gremlin child—“ Wilbur began before Tommy cut him off.

“I am not a child, bitch!” Tommy glared at him, crossing his arms.

“Sure you aren’t, how old are you? Twelve?” Wilbur asked as he rolled his eyes, a smile tugging at his lips. Tommy huffed.

“You wish— could a child beat you up?” Tommy threatened as he took a step towards Wilbur, who stood his ground.

“I dunno, but I doubt you could, fucking gremlin—“

Tommy lunged forward, but Wilbur was faster as he stepped out of the way, nearly tripping Tommy with his big fucking feet.

“Hey— that was unfair! Your cheating—“

”Like I said, a gremlin child can not beat me up.” Wilbur laughed, a smug look on his stupid fucking face, but Tommy can't help but grin a little, just a little, even though he would never admit that.

“I'm not a child!” Tommy whined as he looked at Sam.

“Sam- big man, boss man, total chad of a guy, tell Wilbur I'm not a child—“

“It seems like you two will get along just fine.” Sam clapped his hands with an amused smile.

“Tommy, make sure to go over everything with Wilbur, he will be a new luggage boy.” Sam was walking away before Tommy could complain. Tommy dragged a hand down his face as he slowly turned to look at Wilbur, who had the smuggest look on his face he’d ever seen.

“Fuck you.” Tommy flipped him off, before grabbing his bag off the ground and walking to the desk, not looking behind him to see if he was following, mumbling about how terrible his life was and how Wilbur had just made it worse.

“Hey— where are we going?” Wilbur asked as he ran to catch up with Tommy as he opened the employees only door. Tommy gave him a flat look, before pointing at the sign on the door like he was stupid. Which he was, very stupid indeed, and Tommy would bully him about it.

“Oh, I see!” Wilbur said as he stepped inside, pushing Tommy out of the way like he owned the place.

“What the— what the fuck?” Tommy shrieked as he rushed in after Wilbur. The employee's only room was a lounge, with a small kitchen, full of snacks, a large bathroom, and changing rooms. Quite a cozy place to hang out in, which he did often when there was nothing to do. No one else was in here besides the two of them. Wilbur took one glance around before nodding to himself.

“Great break room. Really fits the vibe.. with all the red and black. You know there’s other colors you can incorporate— like blue,, for instance, would go nicely with—“

”Shut the fuck up.” Tommy snaps as he puts his bag on one of the chairs, and sets his trench coat on the back of it. He smoothed out his suit before turning to glare at Wilbur who was still rambling on about different color choices and other random shit he had tuned out.

Wilbur suddenly stops and looks at him like he just killed his puppy.

“Did you… did you walk here in your uniform?” He asks, barely holding back a laugh. Tommy glanced down at his uniform… it looked perfectly fine to him- he didn’t see the problem here.

“Yeah..?” Tommy says slowly, as he watched Wilbur burst out laughing.

“What the fuck is so funny?” Tommy asks, glaring at him. What a stupid laugh he has.

“Usually when you wear such a fancy uniform you change at your place of work, surely? To not get it dirty? And plus, Isn’t it embarrassing wearing that out in public?” Wilbur chuckles as Tommy’s face reddens.

“Hey— I don't see a problem here! Sam's never said anything before!” Tommy says defensively- admittedly it was a little embarrassing wearing it out in public but who really cares all that much?

“It's too much of a hassle to change here when I can change in the luxury of my own apartment room!”

“Oh this is good, too good— I can't believe you didn’t know that!” He laughs more and Tommy's face only gets redder. He turns away towards the door.

“Whatever, prick, you can just figure out this job all by yourself,” Tommy says as he walks out the door, not looking back at the absolute bitch in the back room who was making fun of him.

“I mean— it's okay if you didn’t know, but now you do kid!” Wilbur calls after him, as Tommy sighs. He wants to bang his head against the wall, but he refrains from doing so, instead flipping Wilbur off again.

“Anyways, this job can't be that hard.”

“You’d be surprised,” Tommy mumbles as he walks to the receptionist sitting behind the desk, who was also new. Huh, weird.

“Hello? Who are you and what have you done to my mate Eyrn?” Tommy asks as if the new person had murdered Eyrn. The new person gives him a bored look. He has pink hair tied up in a bun behind his head and wore the same uniform as Tommy and Wilbur did. He was shorter than him, and had many faded scars on his face.

“I'm Tech— Tj. My names Tj.” He said in the deepest voice Tommy had ever heard. Tommy raised an eyebrow at that.

“Tj, huh? You don't sound very confident in that.” Tommy leans over the counter, knocking over a cup of pens. Tj just sighs.

“I'll be watching you, Tj.” Tommy whispered, squinting at him, before pulling back and straightening his bow tie.

“Anywho, who’s all coming in today and what times?” Tommy asked in a much lighter tone. Tj just stares at him before rolling his eyes.

“There’s a nine, a ten, and eleven-thirty.” Tj read off the list on the computer.

“Easy day then!” Tommy said as he turned back to Wilbur who was watching everything with an amused look on his face.

“What?” Tommy asked him.

“Nothin’.”

“Okay… you two are both fucking weird,” Tommy mutters, Wilbur starts laughing and Tj just shakes his head. He looks like he doesn’t want to be here, which, in all honesty, Tommy doesn’t want to be here either.

“Well, Wilbur,” Tommy says to get his attention.

“The job is like this; wait around for check-inns, take their shit up to their rooms after they’ve checked in- usually they go to the bar or something- and place them in the room, then you leave.” Tommy explains as he pulled out his phone to check the time. It was eight forty.

“We should have someone soon.” He says as he looks at the door, as if expecting someone to walk in.

“We also greet and help direct anyone.” He adds. Wilbur nods.

“This is, like, the easiest job ever.”

~~~~~

“This is the hardest job ever!” Wilbur complains as he drags a heavy ass bag into the elevator, while Tommy snickers at him. The bag was blue and stuffed to the brim- practically overflowing with clothes and other shit. He did not know how that bag stayed zipped shut. Tommy had a smaller bag that was not as nearly as heavy.

“Stop complaining and suck it up— you whiny bitch.” Tommy shakes his head as he presses the button for the fifth floor.

“How do your arms survive this?” Wilbur asks as he takes a deep breath.

“Because I am the biggest and strongest man here.”

“Now that’s just bullshit—“

”No cursing on the job!”

“What the— you curse all the time!”

“No I do not, I am just a little kid and I do not know any bad words.” Tommy deadpans and grins at him. Wilbur glares at him.

“So you admit your just a kid?” Wilbur says smugly.

“I am not a kid!” Tommy shouts at him, hitting him with the bag he was holding.

“Ouch— okay okay! Prick.” Wilbur mutters as he side-glares Tommy. The elevator dings and they both step out, Tommy strolling out and Wilbur struggling to drag the luggage behind him. Tommy barely stifles his laugh as he pulls his phone out and takes a photo. Blackmail.

“Come onnnnn. Your taking so long.” Tommy whines as he watches Wilbur struggle to drag it down the hall. Wilbur shoots him a look.

“Well if you fucking helped me then maybe this would be going faster,” Wilbur mumbled.

“What was that?” Tommy asks, a smirk on his lips. Wilbur stopped dead before lunging at Tommy and putting him in a headlock. Tommy shrieks as Wilbur ruffles his hair, laughing as Tommy struggles in vain to get away but Wilbur had a tight grip on him.

“Let me go— you have no right to do this to me! This is assault, your man-handling me! This is why I hate men!” Tommy shrilly says as he laughs. Wilbur finally let him go with a huff.

“Whatever you say, gremlin child.”

“You messed up my hair! It took me hours to get it like that!” Tommy ruffled his hair before patting it down, glaring at Wilbur, but there was no real heat behind it. Wilbur stuck his tongue out at him.

“Yeah, yeah, defiantly.” He waved him off as he went back to dragging the bag. Tommy watched Wilbur, a small smile still on his lips… he hadn’t felt this light in a long time. To say they hit it off was an understatement. They spent the rest of their shifts joking and fucking around like idiots until it was time to go home. Tj was really just there in the background, like the creep he was. He gave Tommy the chills.

Tommy got home around one, he slipped off his shoes and took off his tight uniform before getting into comfy clothes and passing out on the couch. Tubbo was at work still. He glanced at his phone to see a text from Tubbo.

Tubbster:

pack all your shit when you get home.

I found a place we can stay at

Tommy couldn’t help but sigh as he typed back the best response ever,

BigmanInnit:

on it.

So he did just that. Packed all of his things, which wasn’t much to be honest. A big box full of his clothes, and another box that had the few things he held dear to his heart. Henry, his cow plushie he had had since he was young. A few old and faded photos of him and his dead family. Shocker, he was an orphan. He didn’t really tell many people that, especially since he wasn’t in the foster system or whatever it was that happened to kids when their family dies. He had run instead.

He also put in other photos and papers from more recent times, of him and Tubbo, just the two of them against the world, and important papers. Like the time when Tubbo drew him the best birthday card ever.

That was… basically it. A little sad, he had to admit, but beggars couldn’t be choosers. He was assuming they were selling the old furniture they had taken from dumpsters and off the side of the road. He could pack the food.

Tubbo finally gets home to him passed out on the couch, the door opening waking him up. Tommy groans as he opens his eyes, blinking away the sleepiness.

“Good morning sleeping beauty,” Tubbo says as he sets his bag down before sighing. He seems to be in a better mood than he had this morning. Tommy sat up and stretched before looking at him.

“So… you found a new place to stay?” He asks and Tubbo nods. Tubbo looks… very stressed. His brow is furrowed with thought, his brown eyes seemingly far away, and his leg is bouncing up and down, a nervous habit.

“Your not going to like where it is though.” Tubbo looks at him with a worried look. Tommy frowns.

“It's in Pogtopia…” Tommy’s eyes widen. Pogtopia? Not Pogtopia of all places— it was the most run-down part of this god-forsaken country. L’manberg had two lower-class districts in it, Pogtopia- the worst of them all, and Logstedshire, where they currently live, then Upper L’manberg where the rich lived. Where the hero’s patrolled the most as well.

“Yeah… I know. But it’s the only place I could find on such short notice and— and they’re willing to extend the due dates on rent—“ Tubbo rambled, his voice getting more high-pitched as he waved his hands about. Tommy gently grabbed his hands before sighing, stopping him.

“It’s okay, Tubso.” He says with a small smile.

“We’ll be alright.” Tubbo looks like he’s on the verge of tears, as Tommy holds himself together, even though he wants to start crying too.

“I can pick up more shifts at the hotel— I’ll even pester Sam for a raise! Pogtopia isn’t that bad, you know? We’ll make it work, like we always do.” Tommy hopes Tubbo believes him, as Tommy is struggling to believe himself. But he hides it away for Tubbo, he has to be strong for him.

Tubbos eyes water but he doesn’t start crying, which is a win.

“Sorry— it’s just… I can’t believe this happened— fucking Schlatt. I’ll kill him.” Tubbo threatens as he slumps down on the couch. Schlatt was his uncle that his parents left him with ever since he was two. Tubbo got his own apartment to be closer to his school(since Schlatt wouldn’t move) and he’s been here ever since.

Schaltt really just dipped out of his life. He wouldn’t respond to any texts or emails.

“I’ll hide the body.” Tommy grins at him and Tubbo lets out a shaky laugh.

“Y-yeah.” He sighs as he runs a hand down his face.

“I checked it out, it’s not… that terrible,” Tubbo paused, “just don’t touch the stains, or the carpet really at all. Or the walls. Or… anything really. It’ll take a lot of cleaning…”

“That adds character!” Tommy says.

“Something,” Tubbo mutters.

“So… when are we moving all of our shit?”

“Tonight preferably… I’ve packed all my stuff. I already have the key too.” Tubbo holds up a key.

“Okay…” Tommy groaned.

“How about after dinner?”

“Deal!”

~~~~~

Tommy perched on the roof, the wind blowing in his hair as he pulled his hood up further. It had been a few days since he’d been out on patrol, because of all the moving shit and he was just exhausted.

He was on the stupid roof of his new stupid apartment. It was practically falling apart, the brick was all cracked and vines were growing all around the building. They lived in central Pogtopia, buildings surrounded them everywhere, with a little plaza in the middle of it. There were alleyways everywhere, all shady and grungy.

“Tommy—“ He heard Tubbos voice in his ear.

“Tommy, come back in! I need your help, please— you can patrol tomorrow!” Tubbo begged. Tommy groans. He doesn’t want to clean anymore, or scrub at weird stains, or sanitize the fridge and clean the cupboards of cobwebs and dust and old food that’s been left behind…

“Fine.” He sighed before climbing back down the fire escape and railings until he popped through the window. They lived on the sixth floor of the building, it was tall but not very wide.

The apartment was a mess, to say the least. The carpet was pulling up and stained and just- disgusting, the wallpaper was ripping off and chunks of drywall were hanging on by loose threads, the ceiling had water damage and Tommy was surprised it hadn’t collapsed yet. There was a couch that was leaning on one side, the wooden pole holding it up had collapsed. The kitchen was just as bad, with one cupboard tilting sideways, the counter was yellow, and the water that come from the tap was brown.

It was bad. Really bad. But they had nowhere else they could go. There was a small bathroom, that had seen much better days, and then one bedroom Tommy and Tubbo shared. The bed was just big enough they both could fit on it, not very comfortably, but it was better than the ground.

Tubbo had been cleaning like a maniac for days. He was such a neat-freak. Tommy helped him as best as he could, which wasn’t much, to be honest.

Things at the hotel… were going great, actually. Even though everything else around him was going to shit, at least his job was fun. Working with Wilbur had been the best time he’s ever had. He’s never laughed so hard before in his life with Wilbur, even though Wilbur was stupid and dumb and a big bitch.

Tomorrow he begins his newest shifts, he works morning to night, a full day of working to help out more. He had even gotten a raise from Sam after asking for one.

Tubbo was scrubbing away at the counter and Tommy reluctantly trudged over to help him clean.

Chapter Text

The next day Tommy woke up with a bad feeling in his gut. He didn’t know why, or have any reasonable explanation— he just felt like something bad was going to happen. Maybe it was because of the fact that he had trouble falling asleep last night, and when he did manage to drift off, it was very restless.

He gave Tubbo a hug before he left, more for Tubbo than himself(he really needed it more, but he would never admit that) before he arrived at the hotel. Everything was normal, Wilbur showed up at the same time and Tommy did take his advice to change at the hotel.

It was overall a good day… until the end of his shift came.

“Hey, Tj, how many more check-ins is left?” Tommy asked and yawned, as he leaned over the receptionist's desk to get closer to his face. Tj hated all forms of physical touch… and especially hated it when Tommy breathed in his face. Or knocked over the pens, or purposefully put a towel in the wheels of his spiny chair, or that time when Tommy and Wilbur both scared the shit out of him(Admittedly Tj just ended up scaring the shit out of Wilbur and Tommy but he doesn’t need to mention that)—

Tj just rolls his eyes as he scoots further back in his chair, before his eyes focused on someone behind him as the door rings. Tommy sighs before looking at the new person who came. He only had a suitcase and nothing else. Easy last patron.

“Hello and welcome to Sam’s Hotel—“ Tommy put on his customer service voice as he greeted the man, who only shot him an icy glare before walking past him and to the elevator. Tommy was expecting Wilbur to be snickering at how awkward that was, but when Tommy turned around to glance at him he just saw him staring at the man with calculating eyes.

“Wilbur? Willy, Wilby— wanna go get some food after our shift ends?” Tommy asks, jumping on his feet as he tries to get his attention.

“Wilbur, Wilbur, Wilbur—“ Tommy says as he poked him in the arm over and over. He was not a man to be ignored!

“What?” Wilbur snapped as he glanced at him, his tone harsh before his face softened. Tommy wanted to scowl but kept his face neutral. Sheesh, who put him in a bad mood?

“Uh… do you want to get food after our shift ends? You don't have to come with, I just thought it’d be nice. Also, I can't pay so it’d be all on you buddy.” Tommy gives a sheepish smile.

Wilburs eyes flicker over to Tj before he stares at Tommy for a long moment. Tommy shifts on his feet awkwardly as he waits for a response… Wilbur was acting strange. Stranger than normal for himself that is.

“I'm sorry,” Wilbur whispers, almost too quiet for Tommy to make out. It was probably too quiet for the normal person- he did have enhanced hearing.

“What—“ Tommy blurts out before Wilbur stops him with the lightest touch to his arm. He stops him with his touch. Tommy was frozen— from what, he did not know, but the panic was beginning to set in.

“Go home, Tommy. Don’t come back until your next shift. Forget this ever happened.” Wilbur spoke in a sweet and honeyed voice. His words left him feeling dizzy and dazed; his words echoing in his head yet he couldn’t remember what they were at the same time. His words that seemed to be the only thing he could focus on, the only thing that mattered in that moment, but he couldn’t remember…

He blinks away his haze before knowing it was time to go home— knowing? Remembering? He wasn’t sure… was his shift over? It must be.

“Heading home, Toms?” Wilbur asked with a small smile. Tommy nodded before turning around, his bag already in his hands… when did that get there?

“Uh— yeah, yeah, home.” He sounded unsure but he knew he had to go home.

“Ill— ill see you tomorrow then?” He asked as he walks out the door. Wilbur nods and waves goodbye to him, as he leaves and begins his long walk home. He should take the subway—

What was his reason for going home..?

He was so lost in thought he didn't notice the alleyway he had wandered in. Oh. That wasn't great. He turned to leave the dark and rather spooky alley before there was a muffled bang from somewhere above him he assumed— and then he was lurched forward, blood splattering out in front of him.

His… blood. That was his blood pooling out from a gaping hole in his chest, that was his blood dripping down his suit he didn't change out of— that was his blood that was gushing out of him.

Tommy wanted to scream, so, so badly, but when he opened his mouth no words came out.

He was panting, heavily, his lungs felt like they were drowning in blood, as a metallic taste filled his mouth.

His knees gave out from underneath him. He pressed a shaky hand to his chest, trying in vain to stop the bleeding. He couldn’t stop the bleeding— he never could stop the bleeding, could he?

What would Tubbo think happened to him?

What would… Wilbur think. Sam think. He was dying. He knew that. He was dying, and he couldn’t save himself no matter how hard he tried.

Part of him was content it didn’t hurt. He just… felt numb. Overwhelming numb. Pins and needles and shit.

Part of him wanted to start kicking and throwing and stabbing shit.

He collapsed onto the ground, gasping for breath. His eyes were getting heavy, so heavy.

He didn’t even feel like he was in his body anymore, as he watched himself waste away, not able to do anything. Until a sharp pain pulled him back, and he gasped before his eyes were just too heavy to keep open and the darkness was welcoming him. He gave into it. What else could he really do?

Was that how he died? Like that. Shot in an alleyway.

That was a pretty shitty death if he had anything to say about it.

——————————————————————————————————————

Today was the day their secret undercover mission would be over. Wilbur was very thankful it was going to end, working at a hotel for the past week had sucked ass- not to mention his actual job he worked as well.

But, Wilbur had made a new friend. Tommy. He was like the sunshine in the dark, always cracking a joke or just doing random shit to make him laugh. It was nice having company other than Techno, who decided to be, ‘Tj’, for whatever reason.

He would miss Tommy when it came time to leave the hotel. But part of him didn’t want to let the kid walk out of his life. He was a good friend and fucking hilarious.

He was sure Phil would love him.

Anyways, a while back, they had caught wind of a secret underground organization called Project Marionette. It sent chills down his back, for what reason? He did not know. Anyways, the leader of the hero’s- Puffy- put the SBI in charge of investigating and busting it.

Sam was their inside man in the hotel, he owned it and was also a hero. Why did he own a hotel when he was a hero? No one really knows, some call it passion, others call it stupid. He called it stupid.

“Wilbur, mate, no need to inhale your food.” Phil chuckles as Wilbur devours the eggs he had cooked this morning for him and Techno. Techno takes one glance at Wilbur before rolling his eyes and eating much more civilized than he had.

“Wilbur is just excited he gets to joke around with his new friend,” Techno mutters as he takes a sip of his coffee. Wilbur shoots him a glare before gulping down his own coffee.

“Am not!”

”You have barely shut up about him.” Techno deadpans.

“It's good your making friends, Wil! I'm so proud.” Phil smiles at him encouragingly. Wilbur feels his face redden. So what if he didn’t have a lot of friends? Being a hero took up a lot of his free time.

“Yeah practically a fifteen-year-old—“

”What now?” Phil cuts Techno off and Wilbur bursts out laughing.

“Oh nothing Phil.” Wilbur waves him off, before shooting Techno a look that says, ‘I’ll fucking stab you in your sleep if you don’t shut the fuck up’. Techno only huffs before going back to scrolling on his phone.

“You should invite him over sometime. I’d like to meet the… man? Kid—? Wilbur has made friends with.” Phil smiles at him, and he knows he means it. Tomorrow. He’ll ask Tommy to come over tomorrow and hang out. Yes, he’ll do that. He won't back out like the other three times he’s wanted to ask him.

“Anyways— everyone knows their roles, yeah? Phil is backup, Techno is the brute force, and I am the infiltrator.” Wilbur shoots Techno a smug look.

“Or should I say… Tj?” Wilbur snickers.

“Oh come on— I made it up in the moment! I didn’t want him to know my real name, you idiot!” Techno exclaims with a sigh.

“Yeah, yeah, sure.” Wilbur winks at him before grabbing his bag with his uniform and other stuff. Other stuff being his mask to slip on when the time came, a stun gun, and gloves. Gloves were always useful for punching people.

“Bye!” He called as he practically sprinted out of the house, a smile on his face.

His house was in upper L’manberg, the nicest part, close to the hero tower. A five-minute drive. Fifteen-minute walk. Not a bad commute. His neighborhood was well-taken care of. Full of trees and bushes.

His house was very big, maybe even too big, but it was nice, and it was home. They had quite the acreage, had gotten lucky on that. Not many houses here have a very big yard.

He had a little pep in his step as he got into the car and waited for Techno to drive him to the hotel.

~~~~~

The man of target entered the hotel with the most suspicious-looking briefcase he’s ever seen. He didn’t even try to hide the fact he was part of some secret organization, Wilbur easily saw the circle with a line through the middle on his wrist as he wisked by. That confirmed his suspicions, Techno seemed to notice it too.

“What?” Wilbur snapped as he turned his attention back to Tommy who was very annoyingly drawing attention to them as the man got in the elevator. His eyes softened as he stared at his face.

He was so young.

Techno gave him an encouraging nod from behind the counter.

“I’m sorry…” Wilbur whispered. He wasn’t even sure if Tommy heard him.

“What—“ Wilbur touched his arm, so gently and so lightly.

This was… rough. He never liked using his powers on people close to him. He almost backed out— but he needed to keep him safe. Tommy’s safety was his priority.

“Go home, Tommy. Don’t come back until your next shift. Forget this ever happened.” Wilbur said lowly, in his sweet-honey-like tone, before removing his touch on Tommy and watching the boy stumble back in confusion. Techno threw him Tommy’s bag and he placed it in his hand before stepping back, and pretending nothing ever happened.

Tommy took a moment to get out of the daze Wilbur had set him in, before Wilbur smiled at him and asked if he was leaving. And then he left.

Wilbur stared after him. He wanted to go to dinner with him, but he would make it up to him tomorrow.

“You ready?” Techno asked as he patted him on the back. Wilbur flinched— when did Techno get over to him?

“Yeah.” Wilbur sighed as Techno handed him his mask and gun.

“Let’s go.” Wilbur grinned, before he phased, becoming see-through and able to go through any obstacle.

“Night bird, you there?” Wilbur asked as he pressed on the earpiece as he made his way through the walls, following after the man.

He heard chuckling from the line. “Yes. Is everything going well?” Phil asked.

“Yup! Target acquired. Fifth floor, room… 505.” Wilbur said as he stopped in the walls, watching the man knock on the door. He couldn’t see inside the room, but when the door opened there were two men inside.

“Techno, I’m going in to spy. Be ready when I give the signal.” Wilbur says before floating through the walls and into the room.

The room was small, with two men and another person tied up with a bag over their head. Wilbur froze as he stared at him… what was happening here?

“Is this subject 03?” The man with the briefcase asked.

“Yes, it is. Powers teleportation, Ender Hybrid. He failed to pass the test, but he is trained.”

“And his trainer?”

“He signed off on it.”

Wilbur could barely focus on what they were saying. His eyes were drawn to the leash around his neck, the handcuffs on his hands, and the way they were shaking terribly.

“You have the money?”

“Techno…” Wilbur says lowly.

“All five-hundred thousand of it.”

“You might have to step in. Now.” Wilbur could barely hold back the anger in his voice as he phased through the wall, his stun gun in his hand. Chaos erupted in the room at once, as he shot the man with the briefcase who fell to the ground withering.

Handguns were pulled from the other two as they shouted in panic at one another.

Then Techno came in and pulled him out of the way of the gunfire. Wilbur was struggling against Techno as he held him back- he wanted to end all of their lives.

“Techno! Let me go—!” Wilbur said through gritted teeth. When Techno did let him go everything was quiet.

Wilbur stumbled forward, his eyes taking in everything. All three men were on the ground, convulsing from being stunned. Bullet holes filled the walls, and the person who was on a leash was gone.

Wilbur stared dumbfounded. They were just there— they had been just out of reach—

“Techno— he’s gone! What— where—“ Techno put his hands on his shoulders, stopping him.

Wilbur was hyperventilating. Why was he so freaked out? Who was that boy… where did he go?

“Wilbur, calm down. Calm.” Techno said, his voice dragging him back. Wilbur took a deep breath, before shakily letting it out.

“Let’s go and look for the boy— the police are already on their way,” Techno suggested. Wilbur numbly nodded.

“I can’t believe these scum were selling that boy!” Wilbur gritted his teeth, the anger rushing back to him as he stormed out just as police came down the hall.

They knew exactly what to do.

“Phil— be on the lookout for a boy with a bag on his head and chains.” Wilbur basically shouts as he presses his finger on the earpiece, before phasing through the walls and outside of the hotel.

He became physical again as he began searching around the nearby alleys before he suddenly froze, the scent of blood heavy in the air. He slowly walked back, on edge immediately, as he took in the scene in front of him.

There was a big puddle of blood on the ground, reflecting the dying light from one of the lamp posts down the street, along with someone’s shoe prints that walked to the wall.

Wilbur decided to figure out what happened here.

He latched onto the lingering emotions in the alley, and slowly a moment in time was stitching together in front of him.

The first thing that hit him was the amount of fear left behind. A faint image formed in front of him, before the sound of metal hitting metal distracted him and it dissipated.

Whatever happened here would have to wait… Wilbur kept on searching for the boy who he had seen in the hotel room, a feeling of dread pooling in his stomach.

Chapter Text

He had been floating in the void for what felt like days, hours, years? He wasn't sure.

It was just… nothing.

There was nothing.

Until his eyes fluttered open for a split second before they closed again. Pain erupted in his head, and a dull ache in his chest was throbbing.

Images rushed back to his head. Blood on his hands, blood on the floor— blood soaking his clothes— he bolted upright, panting heavily as he pressed a hand against his chest, looking for the blood that should be there but it isn’t there and he only feels a dull ache and his head hurts and he doesn’t know what was happening—

“Theseus.” A stranger's voice said. His head was spinning as he fell back down against the bed he was laying in. Since when had he been in a bed?

He was breathing heavily, his heart was racing and a massive headache was brewing.

“Theseus.” Their voice snapped him out of it, as his eyes slowly drifted over to who said it. Theseus… why was he being called Theseus?

“S’not mys nhome…” He mumbled out, unsure if the stranger would understand what he said, even he himself had a hard time of deciphering what he said.

His eyes began to focus again, and the ringing in his ears was fading. He focused on the man sitting beside him. The first thing he noticed was the smiley porcelain mask covering his face. The next was the green cloak draped around his shoulders. He had dirty blonde hair and was rather slender. Whoever this person was was just staring at him like a fucking creep from behind his mask.

“Theseus! Take it slowly, buddy.” He tilted his head as Tommy sat up, resting a hand against his temple as he scanned the room he was in. It was a plain small room, with white walls— almost painfully white, and dim lights on.

There were… chains connected to the wall on one side, along with a smile carved into the wall opposite it. It gave him an uneasy feeling. He was on a small, flimsy bed, with one pillow and thin blankets. His clothes had been replaced with gray sweat pants and a matching grey shirt. There was no window. There were no vents. Only a door with a small peephole that had some type of glass.

“Uh… where am I?” Tommy asked, he couldn’t hide the nervousness in his tone as he looked at the man. The man paused before tilting his head upwards.

“You will learn that soon enough.” He said curtly.

“Okay… wha— what happened to me?” He stuttered out, as he placed a hand over his heart, just to check it was still beating. Which it was. Thankfully.

“You were caught in the cross-fire of some gang fight and shot in the chest,” He nodded at his hand before continuing, “and luckily I was there in time to save you. If I hadn’t been, you would have been dead for good.” The man sighed, his tone was somehow extremely caring and worried.

“I… died?” He blurted out. The man laughed.

“Yes, you did.”

“But I’m alive!” Or was he alive? What if he was still in his own limbo—

“I used my powers to save you.” Tommy froze, as he looked at the man. He used his powers to save him?

“What— why- how is that possible?” Tommy breathed.

“I can revive people from the dead, but at a cost.” His tone was so neutral, so steady, Tommy was having a hard time reading his emotions.

“Oh— are you… are you alright?” He couldn’t help but feel a little guilty about that. The man thought about it for a second.

“I will be.” He said curtly. He was a man of few words apparently. They fell silent after that, as Tommy played with the fabric of his shirt. (He didn’t realize that the price he paid would be his free will.)

“T-thank you.” He said suddenly.

“For— uh, for saving me and all. You didn’t have to do that, but you did— I’ll forever be in your debt. Really, dude, you didn’t have to go out of your way but you still did— that’s respectable, you are such a big man, the biggest of them all in fact. But not bigger than the Angel himself, he will always be my biggest man- to me, anyway. You are pretty pog, pretty cool dude I do have to say.” He was rambling, he knew that, but he was nervous and didn’t know what to do and he was starting to feel overwhelmed—

“Your welcome.” The man nodded. Tommy couldn’t help but smile at that before looking away at the wall, his eyes falling on the chains.

“My name is Dream.” The man- Dream- said. Tommy looked back at him.

“Sorry, guess I should have introduced myself sooner.” He said as he ruffled his hair with his hand.

“I mean, I was pretty content with just calling you ‘the man’ in my head, but Dream works too.” That had Dream let out a small laugh.

“Oh— I’m Tommy.” Tommy introduced himself, giving Dream a nod.

“I know, but I prefer Theseus.” Now that… was a weird thing for Dream to say. How did he know that name—

“How do you—“

“It's just a name, right?” Dream shrugged. Tommy shot him a look.

“I guess… do what you want, you did save me and all. Least I could do.” Tommy said slowly.

“That’s my boy.” Dream ruffled his hair, his fingers trailing through it. Tommy leaned into the touch slightly; it felt so warm and friendly.

“How are you feeling?” He asked, his porcelain mask staring at him.

“Uh, okay I guess- physically, I feel fine. Emotionally? That’s a different story.” Tommy shivered, earning himself another short laugh from Dream. He couldn’t help but smile.

“You're rather funny. I quite like it.” Dream said as he stood up, grabbing the chair with him.

“So… when do I get to go home?” Tommy asked the question that had been bothering him. He was scared what the answer would be. Dream froze, and something inside Tommy screamed at him to look away, but he didn't. He was a big man, he didn't get scared.

“I wouldn’t worry about it.” Dream said, his tone sharper as if he was telling him to drop it.

“That really isn’t an answer—“ Tommy began before Dream lunged forward, all so suddenly, grabbing him by his neck and slammed him against the wall. Tommy stared wide-eyed at him, at the porcelain mask, the black smiley face painted on it.

“Your already home.” Dream said, the tug of a smile in his voice as he let Tommy go, walking to the door as if nothing happened. Tommy tentatively reached a hand up to his neck, before staring at Dream, fear sprouting in his stomach.

“Let’s go, Theseus. We have a lot to do, and not enough time.” Dream opened the door, dragging the chair out with him. Tommy found himself shakily getting out of bed and following after him.

This was not his home. He wanted to go back to Tubbo and the little apartment they had found. Dread was filing his whole body and he followed Dream out into the hallway, nearly slipping on the tiles from the socks he was wearing. The hallway was similar to the room, full of doors similar to his. He looked back at his room, his was number 03.

Dream was waiting for him further down the hall. Tommy didn’t want to follow him, but he was a big man and big men didn’t get scared of pussies hiding behind a mask.

“Where we headed, boss man?” Tommy asked as he joined Dream, who glanced at him before starting to walk at a leisurely pace down the hall.

“You’ll see when we get there.” Dream didn’t break stride or even look at him as he opened the door that lead to a larger room. It was similar to a waiting room, but it also lead off to other hallways with more doors. There was a Receptionist desk in a corner and a bunch of chairs off to the sides. On the walls there were a lot of papers, and… motivational quotes. They didn’t seem very motivational if he was being honest.

‘Obedience is key to being successful.’ And, ‘Listen to your trainer.’ What the fuck. They were more scattered around the wall, in boring letters and colors. Tommy was feeling more unsure after each passing moment.

“What's up with all the shit on the walls?” Tommy asks as he follows Dream down another hall. Dream hummed but didn’t say anything.

“You don't really say much, do you?” Tommy said as he walked beside Dream, stride in stride. Dream shot him a glance. Tommy offered him a small smile.

They passed someone with short brown hair that wore blue clothes, with a mushroom necklace. Behind him was a group of five kids, following after him in line with their heads bowed, each in perfect pace with the other. They were like ducklings. Tommy paused, staring at them for a long moment. What was this place?

Dream grabbed him by his arm and dragged him with him.

“I'm coming- I’m coming!” Tommy grumbled as he followed after Dream. They stopped in front of a door, and Dream opened it before walking in. Tommy followed after him into it, looking all around. It looked like a training room, with a padded floor, that was worn out and faded, high ceiling— really high ceiling, and bright lights.

He could see the red bloodstains on the ground… everywhere. There was an array of weapons hanging up on a wall, along with some chairs off to the side to sit and watch. Dream walked out to the middle of the room, beckoning Tommy to follow him.

“Theseus, if you listen to me everything will go very smoothly for you.” Dream began.

“But,” he clapped his hands together, “if you don't then things will get bad, very bad.” His tone was almost… sadistic.

“Do you understand?” Dream asked. Tommy stared at Dream for a long moment, before doing something very, very stupid.

“I understand- but; I only listen to myself, big man. Or Tubbo. Sorry—“ Dream slapped him so hard, and so fast, it sent Tommy reeling to the ground with a surprised noise. His head was spinning and his ears were ringing.

“What the— what the fuck?” Tommy shrieked as he glared at Dream. Dream just stared at him, his hand twitching slightly before he laughed.

“Get up, Theseus.” Dream ordered. Tommy was getting mad- no one ordered him around!

“You don't control me—“ Tommy spat before Dream was descending upon him, grabbing him by the neck, lifting him up as Tommy grabbed at his gloved hands trying desperately to free himself before Dream slammed him down onto the ground. He blacked out for a moment, before he gasped. His vision was blurry- his ears were ringing… his head was throbbing.

Dream was kneeling beside him, caressing his face with the gentlest touch. Tommy would have moved away if he wasn't so dazed.

“Oh, my dear Theseus, I own you now.” Dream said in a sing-song tone.

“I control you. You belong to me, and only me.” Dream grabbed his face and forced him to look at him. Tommy let out a disgruntled noise before kicking out at Dream. Dream jumped back with a sigh as Tommy sat up, wiping away the blood dripping down his face from his nose. When did that happen—?

“I belong to myself,” Tommy stated, holding his chin up high as he stood up, a fire burning in his eyes as he got ready to defend himself from another attack. But Dream only laughed. The fucking maniac.

“I love this! I love your spirit— and I can't wait to shatter it.” Dream took a step towards him. Tommy stood his ground, even though he wanted to flinch back. Dream went to punch him, but Tommy ducked. Unfortunately, he didn’t see the kick Dream sent his way. Or the punch to the stomach. He was back on the floor, gasping for breath.

“Your weak, useless, worthless.” Dream kicked him in the side, in his ribs. Tommy cried out in pain, curling up into a ball.

“But I can make you into something. I can mold you into the perfect person. My Theseus. Oh Theseus, you’ll be something great, I can already tell.” Dream kneeled down besides him where he was a ball on the ground. He grabbed him by the cuff of his shirt, dragging him up.

“Let me go—“ Tommy struggled, weakly throwing a punch at Dream who caught his fist.

“When will you learn?” Dream said in a disappointed voice as he shook his head.

“I don't belong to you- you fucking creep! What the fuck- I’m just a kid- you can't do this to a kid—“ Dream punched him again. This time he saw stars on his way down to the floor.

“Your nothing, Theseus. Nothing. Not a kid, not a vigilante, not a person.” Dreams voice wrapped around his mind, his words echoing around in his head as Tommy groaned in pain.

“I'm the most important person in your life- the one who saved you! I saved you, not Specter, not the Angel. I did. Dream did.” Dream grabbed his face, his fingers digging into his cheek as he turned his bloodied face to his porcelain mask.

“Your mine now.” Dream said lowly. Tommy gathered all the blood in his mouth before spitting it on his mask.

“I'm no ones, bitch.” He retorted. Dream raised his fist and before he knew it, he heard a crack and darkness consumed him.

He woke up to a sizzling, and the smell of burning flesh. A sharp pain on his neck sent him reeling back to consciousness. Hot metal was pressed against his skin— the metal stayed there for at least a minute. Pain seared through him as he opened his mouth to scream, but a hand slapped over his mouth. He tried to move but he was tied down, restrained like some fucking animal.

Dream was there, with his smiley mask, staring at him as the hot metal burned his skin.

“That’s enough.” Dream waved off whoever was doing it. But the pain didn’t stop. His muffled screams didn't stop either.

“Remember, Theseus, your mine.” And he was slipping off into unconsciousness again, but this time, he welcomed the darkness.

~~~~~

He woke up to a stinging in his neck. He didn’t want to open his eyes. His nose was aching. His head hurt. Everything hurt.

He opened his eyes to the white ceiling and the dim lights, before closing them. He was back… in the room he woke up the first time. Where was he? Why… why was he here?

He missed Tubbo. A lot. Tubbo would cheer him up.

He missed Wilbur too. And his jokes, and the way he cared about him even though they just met.

Dream. Dream thought he could control him— use him, manipulate him. He wouldn’t let that happen. Dream was a bitch, and a bad man. He cant believe he joked around with him.

The stinging in his neck brought him back. He opened his eyes, and there was Dream looming over the side of the bed, staring at him with his porcelain mask, the hot metal burning his skin— Tommy blinked and he was gone.

Tommy was shaking, and he didn't know why.

He slowly sat up, shakily looking around the room. The door was closed, and the hallway outside was dark. It must be night. He was only guessing because there were no windows anywhere.

He reached a shaking hand up to tentatively touch his neck. He had been burned, by whatever form of cruel torture that had been. Why would Dream do that—

It finally hit him.

Dream had branded him. He branded him like some animal—

That brought a choked sob to his throat as he felt the burns, his touch making it sting even more but he didn’t care. There were two circles and a curved line.

It was a fucking smiley face.

He wanted to throw up. He wanted to kick and scream and fight his way out of here.

He wanted to go home… to Tubbo, Wilbur at the hotel, laughing and joking. Just thinking about it made him want to cry.

Was anyone going to save him?

Chapter Text

He didn’t dream that night. Nor did he really sleep, flitting in and out of consciousness.

He bolted up as a pounding on his door woke him up.

“Get up and ready!” Someone shouted at him, before grumbling and walking away.

Tommy’s heart was pounding as he stared at the door, his eyes wide before he realized he wasn’t breathing. He took a deep breath in and shakily let it out.

He needed to get out of here- whatever this place was. He assumed they were underground or something. He never saw a window once.

He would have to find a way up and out. He would have to be sneaky; he couldn’t just waltz out without being killed. Again.

His eyes shot to the door as it slowly opened. And there was Dream, with his smiley mask on and his green cloak. He was holding a mirror in one hand.

“Good morning, Tommy.” Dream said in a friendly tone. Tommy? Why was he calling him Tommy now—? Tommy said nothing as he glared at the man, balling his hands into fists.

Dream sighed before stepping closer to him.

“Tommy, come on. Where is that fire, huh?” Dream waved his hands around.

“Fuck. You.” Tommy spat, all his hate and anger like venom in his voice.

“I want to go home- I never wanted to be here, you fucking prick! You kidnapped me, fucking beat the shit out of me and whatever the fuck you did to my neck—“ He wasn’t ready to admit he had been branded. Not yet.

Dream held the mirror out in front of him, Tommy’s reflection staring back at him.

He had a white streak in his hair he didn’t know where from. His face was all bruised, especially around his nose, the deep purples and blues startling.

Tommy didn’t look at his neck, and Dream must know that because he grabbed his jaw lighting fast, titling his head to reveal his worst fear.

“Isn’t it lovely, my dear Theseus?” Dream cooed at him, a smile playing in his tone.

Tommy took one look at the burnt flesh, on his upper neck, the smiley face that was on Dreams mask branded into his skin.

“Why the fuck would you do that—“ Tommy exclaimed as he tried to pry Dreams hands off of his face, but Dreams grip was so tight, his fingers digging into his jaw—

“So everyone knows who you belong to.” Dream let go of his face and stepped back.

“You're fucked up.” Tommy snapped as he rubbed his jaw.

“What the fuck is wrong with you?” Tommy spat at Dream, giving him a death glare, his body shaking with anger and disgust.

“There he is.” Dream titled his head.

“Come along now, Theseus, we have a lot to do.” Dream said as he walked to the door, before waiting there.

Tommy just stared at him.

“You have a lot to learn today, if you don’t start moving I’ll have to punish you.” Dreams voice was very monotone as he stared at him with his stupid fucking white mask.

“Okay, okay! I’m coming.” Tommy said as he got out of bed, reluctantly following after Dream. He had an itching to fucking punt Dream in the face, break his stupid ass mask, and beat the shit out of him just like he did to Tommy the day before. But he refrained from doing so, like a civilized person, but he didn't think that really mattered here.

If he wanted to escape, he should try and learn the layout at least.

“My little birdie, we will begin with the rules. We’ll only start out with a few but the most important.” Dream began as he walked, Tommy walking in step with him.

Dreams foot shoot out in front of him, tripping him.

“What the fuck man—“ Tommy said as he stumbled, barely catching himself, as Dream just stared at him.

“I am your trainer, you walk a step behind me always.” Dream said sharply. Tommy glared at him.

“Fuck off, I’ll do what I want.” Tommy snapped.

“You are fun, aren’t you?” Dream mused.

“The rules I tell you I will enforce.” His tone took a darker turn as Tommy glared at him.

“Come along now, we don’t have all day.” Dream said and began walking again.

Tommy grumbled under his breath before following after him, keeping a step or two behind him. Keeping this fucking psycho happy would probably prove to his benefit in the long run, even though he desperately wanted to break the stupid rules just to spite the man.

“Do not attempt to escape, or plot to escape. Or run. I will kill you if you try.” Dream said as he walked. Tommy glanced at him, giving him a weird look. He wanted to live, yes- of course he would want to.

“I would never dream of running away.” His voice was dripping with sarcasm.

“Good.” Dream nodded. Tommy huffed.

“Disobedience will be met with punishment. You are to do everything I tell you without question.” Dream said.

“Yeah, Sure.” Tommy raised his eyebrows. Something was wrong with this guy. Really wrong.

“You will learn in time. But for today, try and follow those simple rules. I’ll point out any others that come up.” Dream stopped in front of a door, the same door that they had gone in yesterday. The training room.

Dream walked in, Tommy following after him.

“So, let us pick off where we last started.” Dream clapped his hands as he turned to look at Tommy.

“Let’s see those wings of yours.” Something like… eagerness, or excitement was in his voice.

Tommy shivered, wrapping his arms around himself. What was he going to do to them? And how did he know he had wings? Who the fuck was this guy?

“Come on now, don’t be shy.” Dream encouraged him, beckoning him to let his wings out.

“N-no…” Tommy mumbled, unsure of what was going to happen.

“Another rule, no mumbling or muttering. Speak up, now.” Dream said sharply. Tommy took a deep breath before looking at Dream like he was the bully at the playground.

“I said no. How can I trust—“ He flinched back as Dream shifted his stance, expecting to be hit of something.

“Oh, continue on.” Dream said in an amused tone.

“As I was saying, how can I trust you not to do something to them?” Tommy said as he watched Dream carefully. Dream was quiet for a long moment, almost too long.

“That is a valid point. We have only just met, and you still are learning all the rules.” Dream began. Tommy was surprised by his response.

“But… as your trainer, you are to place all of your trust in me, always. And always do as I say.” Dream titled his head at him, and Tommy gulped as he braced himself for a hit, or kick, or anything—

“So, I will let this disobedience slip this once and once only.” His voice was back to its cold, and inhuman tone.

“You are very lucky I’ve been so forgiving. Don’t waste the only kindness you will see from here.” Tommy scowled at that, but something traitorous inside of him was telling him to just do as he says, it will all be over quicker that way. Maybe he wouldn’t be in so much trouble, if he just ducked his head and pretended to be the good little boy— Dream’s good boy, and did as he said.

No.

He pushed those thoughts out as fast as they came, getting mad at himself for feeling something so- so not himself. It made his stomach churn.

Dream let out a small noise, so quiet he probably would have missed if there was more noise in the room.

“I'm sorry to tell you this, but, no can do boss man.” Tommy spat as he took a couple of steps back. He would not reveal his most prized possession to this cruel man. His pride and joy— his wings. He missed his nest.

“Another rule: no talking back. You just broke two rules.” Dream said darkly, as he approached Tommy, and Tommy knew he wasn’t getting out of it without a couple of blue and black bruises, or even a broken rib.

That was how his whole week went. Dream would take him to the training room, after pointing out a couple more rules here or there, or enforcing the ones he’s already… learned. Then Dream would ask to see his wings, and Tommy would refuse, so Dream would beat the shot out of him. He usually blacked out after them, and found himself either in bed or hanging against the chains on the wall. He would not give in— he wouldn’t crack under Dream’s cruel punishments— torture. Dream’s torture. He had done nothing wrong.

But today was… different.

He was struggling. He knew that. But he wouldn’t give in to him.

He just didn’t realize how close he was to breaking.

“Theseus, I believe you know what I am going to ask.” Dream waved his hand about lazily, his mask smiling at him.

“And I believe I know your answer.” He stepped towards him. Tommy was so tired. He couldn’t control his shakiness, the lack of food making him light-headed and dizzy. He didn’t know how he was still alive. His ribs hurt with every intake of air, his head always had a pounding headache, his arms and legs were bruised. He was a… mess, to say the least. But you should see the other guy.

The other guy was approaching him very rapidly.

Tommy swung at Dream, but it was to no avail. Dream just pushed his arm out of the way with ease before he grabbed his neck, slamming him down onto the ground.

Tommy let out a cry of pain, his ribs protesting to every movement as his heart started to beat faster. His head was spinning and his vision was filling with black spots, his whole body was starting to feel numb.

Was he dying, again?

“Sleep nicely, Theseus.” Dream cooed at him, his hands tightening around his neck as everything slowly went dark.

He was dead, again, back in the familiar void of nothing. It was almost… relieving to be back here. There was no pain, there was no hurt, there was no Dream. It was just him floating in the darkness. His own limbo. He wanted to stay here, he realized, instead of going back.

Time didn’t seem to matter here, so he had no idea if days passed, hours, seconds- until he felt the numbness take over his body.

Was he going back?

Searing pain in his head and chest erupted like flames. He couldn’t think straight— his emotions were all mixed and confusing, all jumbling together as if it was bending to someone else’s will.

Panic set in-or at least he thought it was panic, he didn’t really know anymore. He wanted to scream as his whole body morphed into something different, into something someone wanted him to be— into something he didn’t recognize. What he was feeling was worse than when he got beatings, all of his skin seemed to burn, his chest and his head burning the worst of them all. His heart was beating irregularly as it tried to keep up with everything happening, the pain taking over his whole body.

He was breaking.

Tommy woke up with a scream. But a hand was on his mouth. He looked around widely, screaming, as his eyes adjusted to what was happening around him. He was restrained.

The searing pain of being burned snapped his mind out of the panicked daze and the lingering pain still in his head as his eyes snapped to his wrist. There was a metal pole with two dots and a curved line pressed against his skin, the red and yellow metal branding him.

Tommy tried to scream again, tears streaming down his face as he desperately tried to pull away from the metal, but he was restrained— his whole body was fucking strapped down! He couldn’t do anything and that was what made it worse.

Dream was standing in front of him, his smiley mask staring back at him. He imagined he was smiling underneath it, like the fucking sicko he was. Tommy didn’t stop thrashing until the metal was pulled away, and there on his skin was the bubbling burns of a smile on his wrist, the skin red and ugly looking.

All he could do was stare at it, horror in his eyes, as he felt like throwing up. Complete and utter dread and fear descended up him, he didn't even notice he was being unstrapped or how badly he was shaking until someone placed their hand on his shoulder.

Tommy flinched as Dream gently gripped his shoulder.

“Come on, Theseus. Back to your room for the day.” Dream said, his voice neutral as he watched his reaction.

All Tommy did was nod before shakily moving so he could get off the bed… his eyes never leaving the red bubbling skin on his wrist. It stung so badly, the pain searing through him, but he could care less.

Dream helped him onto his feet, before walking to the door, glancing back to make sure he was following. Tommy took a couple of steps forward before his shaky legs gave out and he collapsed, a sob escaping his lips. Dream caught him as Tommy started crying.

“Shh, it's okay. Your okay, Theseus.” Dream ran his fingers through his hair as Tommy cried against his chest. He should hate this man. He should want to kill him. So why did he feel like he was the only person he had left?

“I'm here now, everything will be fine.” Dream rubbed circles on his back until Tommy finally got his crying under control, wiping away his snot and tears on his sleeve. How embarrassing. Tommy wanted to hate himself for leaning into his touch, for believing his words.

But… wasn’t it just easier that way?

Eventually, they left that terrible room full of vials and bottles as Dream lead him back to his small as fuck room. Tommy walked behind Dream in his rightful place, just a step behind him and slightly to the left, until he was back in his room, on his bed, alone.

He cried as he stared at the smile on his wrist.

~~~~~~

“I believe you know the drill, Tommy.” Dream said in a bored tone, but Tommy could tell he was eager to see what he would do. Why did he call him Tommy..?

Tommy messed around with the hem of his grey bloodied shirt. He didn’t want to be beaten anymore.

“Um… my-my shirt.” Tommy stuttered out.

“Your shirt?” Dream asked confused, “Oh.” Dream sighed, shifting his weight.

“How big… how big do the holes need to be?” Dream pulled a knife out of nowhere and walked over to Tommy. Tommy stared at him with wide eyes, taking a couple of steps back.

“Stay still, I’m not going to hurt you.” Dream said in a soothing voice. Tommy froze and just watched Dream walk behind him, his hands starting to shake.

“It just… needs to be a big hole,” Tommy said, admittedly a little awkwardly as Dream started slicing at his shirt carefully, not nicking his skin once. Dream walked back in front of him, putting away the knife.

Tommy’s back was exposed now to the small draft, making him shiver.

“Come on now, my little bird. I just want to see your wings, I won’t do anything to them.” Dream promised. Tommy’s back ached so much, he hadn’t let his wings out in a long time.

Tommy eventually gave in. He let his wings come out, as they fluffed out behind him, the red and white feathers falling into place. Tommy stretched out his wings before he ran a hand through one of them. His feathers were soft but very messy.

“Ah, there they are.” Dream said as he stepped forward a step. Tommy just watched him warily.

“Can you fly?”

“Uh… yes. I’m a little rusty since I haven’t taken them out lately— but yeah.” Tommy nodded quickly as he rolled his shoulders.

“Good.” Dream nodded and just stood there, probably examining his wings.

“You are to only have your wings out when I give you permission.” Dream said after a long moment.

“Okay…”

“I want to see you fly.” Dream nodded at him. Tommy looked up at him for a moment before smoothing down his feathers that were all ruffled.

He took a step back, flexing his wings, before running forwards and jumping as high as he could into the air, his wings catching him and flapping, straining with the effort to get him up higher.

Tommy loved the feeling of the wind in his hair, his wings gliding him around. He hadn’t felt this free, or happy, for a long time.

Tommy was glad the ceiling was so high as he glided around, before going to land besides Dream after a minute or two of soaring through the air.

His landing was not as graceful as his take-off by all means. He hit the ground hard and stumbled forward, almost falling to the ground but he caught himself.

“Good. We will have to work on your landings, at least you’re wings aren’t useless.” Dream nodded approvingly. Tommy beamed slightly, feeling lighter than he normally felt.

Dream hadn’t beat him at all today, or yelled at him, or done anything really- it was good. He hoped it stayed like that.

“That’s it for your powers then?” Dream asked, but Tommy was sure he already knew the answer.

“Yeah. Just the wings.” Tommy said quietly.

“I’m going to make you into something great, Theseus. Into something people will fear. This is the best thing that could have ever happened to you.” Dream put his hand on his shoulder, his grip tight as Tommy just stared at the ground, wishing for this moment to pass.

He wanted to cuss Dream out, kick at him, struggle- anything, but he just couldn’t bring himself to do it.

He just… he just wanted to listen to Dream, do as he says, and make him proud.

Since when did he start feeling like this?

~~~~~

Dream took him all around the facility, showing him everything he deemed important.

The lunchroom, that was a circular room with a bunch of metal chairs and tables. It wasn’t very welcoming looking. Then there was the lab room, that Dream explained was for testing powers and studying them, but Tommy didn’t fully believe that was all they did there.

There were dorms, and Dream said that when he was more trustworthy he would be moved to Dream’s hallway.

“The other students aren’t as special as you are, my pretty bird.” Dream cooed as they walked.

“You are a challenge, a spitfire. I love it.” Dream patted him on the shoulder, before opening a door. They were in the agent's hallway now. Why? Tommy didn’t know.

“I want you to meet my team, since you’ve come to terms with everything. You’ll be spending a lot of time with them from now on.” Dream walked in, Tommy following after him.

The room was like a lounge; it was really nice, with couches and comfy-looking chairs.

Sitting on the couch dozing off was the man he had seen when he first arrived. He had a blue shirt on with white sleeves, brown pants, and today he was wearing big white sunglasses. He had that stupid mushroom necklace on as well.

Besides him was a stockier man wearing a white headband with spiky black hair, he had a white t-shirt with a flame on it, black gloves, and black pants. He was watching tv, scrolling through the channels.

“Theseus, meet George and Sapnap.” Dream introduced the two. George opened an eye sleepily to look at him, while Sapnap stood up.

“Is this that kid you just got?” Sapnap asked as he examined Tommy, thoroughly looking him over, as if he was seeing his potential.

“I'm not a kid!” Tommy shot at him, but the fire he usually had when he would say that was long gone. Sapnap curiously watched him before laughing.

“Sure, whatever you say.” Sapnap glanced at Dream, as if he was expecting something. Dream had been so… relaxed with his punishments of the kid. Sapnap had no clue why. Nor was it his business to pry at the matter. Dream had his reasons. Maybe the kid was special.

“Now that’s my boy.” Dream ruffled his hair and Tommy flinched before staying still.

“Dream, why have I heard you’ve gone soft?” George stretched as he asked, more awake now.

“I have not gone soft, George. You of all people would know that.” Dream titled his head, an unknown conversation going on between the two.

“But you have been more… lax with this kid. You like him or somethin’? Usually favorites don’t last long.”

“Rest assured, my friend, I have full confidence my little birdy will make it under my guidance.” Dream rested a hand on his shoulder. Tommy didn't like any of this, especially how they were talking about him if he wasn't here.

“I'm right here you know?” Tommy rolled his eyes as he crossed his arms, giving them both glares. George made a face while Sapnap laughed.

“No wonder Dream likes him.” Sapnap snorted.

“Anyways, George, it's none of our business how Dream trains his newest pupil.” Sapnap sat back down, going back to watching the tv. George just rolled his eyes before leaning back into the couch.

“Exactly.” Dream said with a clap that made Tommy flinch. Since when has he been so flinchy?

“We’ll be going now. See you later.” Dream waved to them as they left, Dream wordlessly heading down the hall back the way they came.

“How are you feeling?” Dream asked suddenly. Tommy looked at him- did Dream care about him?

“Be honest, your life depends on it.” Dream continued walking. Tommy paused mid-step before responding.

“I feel… sore.”

“That’s all?” Dream looked back at him and Tommy nodded quickly.

“Perfect.” He said no more as they walked back past the lunchroom full of kids, all in the same grey shirt and grey sweatpants, most of them bloodstained. They all looked tired. Tommy was starving, his stomach was basically eating itself at this point.

Dream opened a door that said ‘Lab’ above it, not glancing back as Tommy followed, a bad feeling pooling in his stomach.

“What— what are we doing here for?” Tommy asked nervously as he looked around the white waiting room they were in, two doors at the back of the room.

“I’ll tell you later. Have patience.” Dreams tone was sharp and Tommy was smart enough to shut up. A man walked through one of the doors, he wore lab coats and gloves. He greeted Dream, not even sparing a glance at Tommy.

“This one is in relatively good condition.” The lab coat noted as he finally looked at Tommy. Tommy glared at the lab coat, with as much force as possible.

“Feisty, aye?” The lab coat mused before looking back at Dream.

“Can you get it done?” Dream asked and he nodded.

“Of course. Anything for you.” He eagerly looked at him, a smile dancing on his lips with a hungry look in his eyes. Tommy wanted to be sick.

“Right this way.” Lab coat motioned to the door, an eager look in his fiery eyes, before leading them through it to a large hallway full of more rooms with thick ass doors and no windows.

He jumped a couple of feet in the air as a scream from a room further down met his ears. The scream was so blood-curling and terrifying—

“Calm, Theseus.” Dreams gentle voice pulled him back to reality. He was shaking badly, his heart pounding in his chest.

He wanted to go home.

He was led into a room and sat down on a bed. His body was in auto-drive right now, as he numbly watched everything going on from behind fog in his mind. The door was closed. The room was small, with a bed similar to the branding one.

He shook his head, avoiding looking at his wrist.

His neck stung.

The lab coat approached him, holding something behind his back. Tommy warily watched him, never taking an eye off of the crazy fuck he was.

“Theseus.” Dream said suddenly, but Tommy’s eyes never left the lab coat.

“Theseus.” Dream said sharper this time, and Tommy quickly glanced at him, but that was all the lab coat needed, stabbing him in the leg with some vial full of amber-colored liquid.

“What the fuck-“ Tommy began angrily- but mostly fearful of what was just put in his body, the world around him started to become fuzzy, his balance was off and he was very dizzy. Someone laid him down on the bed in his daze.

He thinks he was strapped down because when he tried to lift a hand to touch his head it was met with resistance.

His eyes were open but he wasn’t seeing anything.

A subtle ringing in his ears began to take over, until he closed his eyes, but they were forced open by someone.

What was happening?

He didn’t know how long he was like that until he finally came too again. He was just… laying there on the bed.

“… no reaction. This is very pellicular, but not uncommon. It could be because of a number of reasons.” Someone said. He was just able to understand the voices.

“Either he has very high immunity, or whatever power was awakened reduced the side-effects. Grab a power reader.”

“Hmm. Advanced immunity and an increased healing factor.” Dream said slowly.

“Is that good or bad for you, Dream?” Lab coat asked as Tommy blinked.

“We shall see.” Dream sounded… disappointed? He wasn’t quite sure.

After whatever… that was, he was sent back to his room with a plate of food and water, that he graciously ate, before laying on his bed and trying to sleep.

Life went on after that. Dream began his training. It was brutal, exhausting, and very physically demanding. They did everything; sparring, cardio, endurance, flight training, weapon training, combat, boxing… for what felt like months, but who knows how long it actually was?

Often during the nights, when he couldn’t sleep, and his daily injuries and beatings were slowly healing, he would think of Tubbo, willing himself to remember, but it was slowly slipping from him.

He just hoped he was doing okay.

Chapter Text

The day after Tommy disappeared.

Wilbur was lazily waiting at the hotel, staring at the clock. Tommy was late. It wasn’t uncommon for him to be late.

Techno had abandoned his job as receptionist and someone named Eyrn was there now.

It was the middle of his shift. Still no Tommy. Wilbur was getting worried.

The end of his shift couldn’t come any slower.

“Sam… did Tommy call in sick or something?” Wilbur had called Sam, he wasn’t at the hotel today.

“No, why? Did he not show up?” Sam asked. Wilbur couldn’t help a nervous sigh.

“Yeah- yeah, he’s not here. I'm kind of worried, especially after last night.”

“I'm coming over right now.” And Sam hung up, presumably on his way.

“Where the fuck is Tommy?” Someone shouted as they kicked open the doors to the hotel. They looked just as young as Tommy did, with brown curly hair, a green shirt and he was short. He was waving his phone around in the air.

“Where is he?” The kid demanded as he stalked up to Wilbur, a furious look in his eyes.

“You bastard— Wilbur, right? Where the fuck is Tommy?” He stalked up right in front of him, huffing up at him.

“Woah— that’s what I’m wondering!” Wilbur stumbled backward, putting his hands up in surrender. This kid was fuming, all twitchy and shit.

“Who are you?” Wilbur asked.

“I'm Tubbo, I'm Tommys best friend and roommate— now where is he?” Tubbo asked again, getting desperate.

“This isn't a funny joke, Tommy!” Tubbo shouted to their surroundings. Eyrn had joined them now.

“Tubbo-“

“Tommy, come out now! I'm really worried, when I find you I'm going to kill you!”

“Tubbo-“ Wilbur tried again.

“Tommy! Where are you?” Tubbo shouted, his voice dying off at the end.

“Tubbo! Listen to me- Tommy isn't here. I just called Sam and he said he didn't call in.” Wilbur explained as Tubbo looked down at the floor. Was he crying- Wilbur was bad at comforting crying children.

“I've called Tommy at least a hundred times… he hasn’t responded to one text, call… anything. He hasn’t responded to anything! He left no message- no clues!” Tubbo sniffed, as he reached a hand up to wipe away his tears, his voice wavering.

“I-I just want to know where he is. That’s all I want.” His voice was quiet now, as he sniffled.

“Maybe… he just broke his phone?” Eyrn suggested out of nowhere. Wilbur shot him a glare and he shrugged.

“Half glass full,” Eyrn mumbled.

“Tubbo… we’ll find him together, okay? Sam is even coming to help.” Wilbur said hopefully as he looked at the crying kid in front of him.

“Yeah. We’ll find him. He probably is doing some dumb shit or something.” Tubbo said hopefully. Wilbur hoped that they would find him lost but perfectly fine, with his phone dead and had run out of luck, wandering the streets tiredly as he asked for directions.

Had he used too much of his powers on him? Guilt wormed its way into his stomach. Guilt and dread.

He tried to think back to what exactly he said to Tommy, but his mind was all fuzzy and he could hardly remember.

He anxiously tapped his foot on the ground as he thought, trying his best to not start freaking out- that would only make this all worse.

They never found him.

Wilbur spent the whole night patrolling looking for Tommy. He found nothing.

A whole week went by, and still nothing- not even a single report, or trace of him. Tommy had been reported as a missing person now, with police searching and investigating.

Wilbur had to admit, he hasn’t been doing so good lately. Every night he went on patrol and crashed on the couch or in the hero tower when he got home, always searching headlines and the newspaper for anything.

“Hey, Wil, we’ll find him.” Phil gently rested his hand on his shoulder one day. Wilbur shot him a tired look. Phil’s words never brought him comfort, they were just pretty lies to try and make him feel better.

“We won't find him sitting around here fucking doing nothing!” Wilbur snapped.

“Mate, there is nothing more you can do- nothing more any of us can do,” Phil said calmly.

“Wilbur, please, go and get some rest.”

“No, Phil. I have work to do.” Wilbur brushed past him and to his office, before slamming the door. He shouldn’t be so mean to Phil when he was just trying to help, but no one seemed to understand.

No one could understand the emptiness he felt now. The void that Tommy left behind in his chest.

He would say something and wait for Tommy to say something snarky or quip back at him, but he was met with a deafening silence that made him want to break down and cry.

He saw Tommy in Phil even- his blonde hair and blue eyes.

He was fucking going crazy.

He spent endless hours searching, replaying the security footage, trying to figure out anything he could- just to all boil down to essentially nothing.

It was driving him mad, to the breaking point even- he just couldn’t let Tommy go.

Tubbo had found where his phone had been, thrown in the trash broken. No leads. Not even any fingerprints that weren’t Tommy’s.

It had been very difficult. But he managed, even if some nights he just needed to cry, or talk with Phil about it.

He was doing better. But the guilt still weighed heavy on him, on his heart, his shoulders- he wasn’t going to get into the ‘done more’ or ‘should have’ shit… he just felt guilty.

Guilty he couldn’t save him, guilty he used his powers on him, and guilty he still calls himself a hero even though Tommy is still missing and whatever happened to him couldn’t have been good-

He sighed, tapping his pen on his desk as he stared out the window in his office.

Tommy haunted him like a ghost, he realized. Not one of the ghosts that’s there all the time- no, the ones that show up every now and then to scare the shit out of you when you least expect it.

After two years or so he still felt Tommy's absence, still felt the emptiness, but he had moved on. For the most part.

Secretly, he never stopped looking for Tommy, not on the streets, at the hotel he used to work at, or on patrol- he was always looking.

He wanted to be better and remember the good memories of him.

He was doing good now. One day Phil showed him a video of a winged vigilante seen with the infamous villain Dream doing business with the underground market of L’manberg.

“Wilbur… you know how I told you about a winged vigilante?” Phil said slowly. Wilbur nodded, idly flipping the pencil in his hands as he studied the winged boy. He had red and white wings, with a blood-red hood covering his hair and a red and black combat suit with white accents. He had guns on his holster, along with handles of other- most likely retractable- weapons. He wore a mask of course.

“Well, I would recognize those wings anywhere. I hadn’t seen him in a long time. I just assumed he retired before shit got too real.” Phil sat the iPad down on the desk before sighing.

“But now he’s working with Dream. So, you know what that means.”

“We have to turn him in, yadda yadda.” Wilbur said as he looked at the winged person again. Something was off about it.

“Well… we don't have to necessarily.” Phil slowly said.

“Phil, you are not adopting some winged child. I will simply not allow it.” Wilbur gave him a stern look as Phil laughed.

“Just promise me this- if you see him tell him the Angel wants to talk and let him go,” Phil asked. Wilbur groaned.

“Fine. Only once.” Wilbur agreed.

“Thanks, Wil.” Phil smiled before leaving.

“Don't forget movie night tonight!” Phil called as he closed the door. Wilbur rolled his eyes before fondly smiling.

His eyes settled on the winged kid. Something put him off and he wasn’t sure why. If he lingered maybe a bit too long on it, well, no one needed to know that.

He spent the rest of the day doing his normal tasks, annoying Techno, not doing his paperwork that was long overdue, which he should really do- but someone else could take care of it for him.

The winged kid just bothered him, he couldn't shake it. Something about him... maybe it was that Phil liked the kid and hadn't seen him in about two years. No one had seen him in two years, and now we know why. He had been taken into the Hunters, under Dreams wings so to say.

Dream was a ruthless assassin, someone who everyone at the tower knew not to mess with. There had been many close calls before, and eventually the two organizations had to have a meeting to call a truce.

The heroes wouldn't mess in any of their affairs, and the Hunters would stay out of theirs.

Wilbur didn't really like this secret truce between the two. The public had no idea the Hunters existed- or many of the other organizations as of fact. Unless you were involved in some shady business, which happened quite a lot here, then you really wouldn’t know about it.

Puffy was a smart woman, making all these truces with them, but it felt wrong. It kept the more powerful villains away and out of the picture, but at what cost? People were getting hurt and they couldn't stop any of it.

It was… frustrating. His whole life was frustrating.

“You look lost,” Techno said, pulling him out of his thoughts. Wilbur shot him an icy glance from where he sat on the couch in the lounge part of their floor.

“And you look stupid.” He shot back, lounging back as he crossed his arms. Techno just stared at him, with his stupid sanguine eyes and pink hair- why did he even have pink hair?

“You know there is something called being nice.” Techno shook his head as he went back to reading his book.

“You know there is something called being quiet?”

“Very original, Wil.” Techno deadpanned.

“Very original, Tj.” Wilbur tried his best Techno impersonation, deepening his voice as much as possible.

“When will you let that go?.” Techno didn't even look at him as he went on reading. Wilbur straightened up as the elevator door pinged open, shooting a quick glare at Techno before seeing who entered.

It was just Sam, such a disappointment, he was hoping it’d be Phil so he could complain to him. He was in a complaining mood.

“Oy, Sam, did you see bird man anywhere?” Wilbur asked, eyeing Sam up. He had his green hair slicked back, all professional and shit, probably just came back from the Hotel. He was also carrying a bag full of something heavy.

“Uh, no,” Sam responded dryly, his green eyes glancing at him than Techno.

“I have the gear you requested to be fixed, though,” Sam said as he sat down the bag. Wilbur jumped up, rushing over to the bag eagerly. He opened it, pushing aside the other junk that had been sitting around for ages until he found his one and only, Chekhov’s Gun. He held it up like fucking Simba.

“Thanks, Sam! You are the best.” Wilbur said as he looked at Sam, smiling at him before rushing off to his office, leaving behind Sam and Techno.

Sam was one hell of a guy. Super smart and shit, he could fix or make anything if you asked him to. He was also really strong and good with that trident of his. He also ran Pandora’s Prison. Wilbur was certain he didn’t sleep, he just worked.

Pandoras prison was a cruel place, unwelcoming, anyone that goes in isn’t making it out. Only the super fucked up people go there.

Wilbur shivered, before getting ready to leave after he placed his gun with his suit. Today was a good day, he thought, as he stared out at the city below him, the sun setting, the lights of the city shining brightly at him.

——————————

Present Day

“Great job, Theseus.” Dream praised as he landed beside Dream, smoothly, waiting for his next order. Dream ruffled his hair, and Theseus leaned into the gentle touch, beaming.

He loved making Dream happy.

His eyes landed on the person he had just been fighting, another one of the students, Sapnap’s actually, who was laying on the ground. Theseus didn’t think he killed him- his final blow had been to the head, but he was very still, chillingly still.

Dream didn't seem worried about it, as Sapnap walked over to his student, a disappointed look on his face. Theseus didn't linger on it too much, he never did, death was just a part of things here. He had to move on, for his own sake.

He didn't want to kill, by any means. But he would not disappoint Dream. He felt a little better when he saw the kid's finger twitch, letting out the breath he had been holding in.

“Your free to get something to eat, but I want you back in three hours all cleaned up, do you understand?” Dream asked, his voice taking a sterner tone. Theseus looked up at Dream and nodded.

“I’ll see you then.” Dream said as he walked off, his green cloak billowing out behind him as he left. Theseus watched him for a moment before turning and walking to Sapnap and the kid.

Sapnap was kneeled beside him, his fingers on the kid's neck, checking the pulse. Sapnap glanced at him as he walked over, giving him a small smile.

“You're improving a lot, Theseus. Dream taught you well.” Sapnap praised him. Theseus smiled, a warm feeling in his chest. He spent a lot of time with Dream and with his team as well, Sapnap and George. They’ve all become like a family.

“You hit him good, though. I think he will be useless after this.” Sapnap sighed as he stood up.

“This one was promising.”

”Well, you don’t need him when you have me.” Theseus smiled at Sapnap, as he wiped his bloodied fingers on his grey shirt, which wasn't really grey anymore. His wings were tucked close behind his back, out of the way but able to spring into action if need be.

“I guess that’s true, but what will Eret think when I have no new agents to offer up?” Sapnap seemed actually worried about that, his face scrunching up slightly as he stared at the bloodied kid on the ground.

“You just need to train them better.” Theseus shrugged, watching Sapnaps reaction. Sapnap was usually more relaxed with Theseus, so he could get away with more when it was just the two of them.

Sapnap laughed, before resting a hand on his shoulder.

“Maybe. I just don't have as much time as you and Dream do, because Dream only takes on one at a time for whatever reason.” Sapnap frowned, before looking back at the unconscious kid.

“Oh well, I‘ll get a guard to take him down to the infirmary.” Sapnap began walking away, not even sparing the kid a second glance. Theseus followed after him, his wings twitching.

“Why does Dream only have one?” Theseus asked curiously. Sapnap looked at him.

“I don't know, why don't you ask him?” Sapnap said as he pushed open the door to the hallway outside. Theseus paused for a second.

“What if he gets mad?” He voiced his fear. He hated making Dream mad. Sapnap shot him a look- of what? He couldn't tell.

“Then you can tell him I wanted to know.” Sapnap offered. Theseus smiled.

“Thanks!” He waved goodbye to Sapnap, before turning and quickly walking down the hall to the cafeteria. He wondered what they would have today- either bread with eggs, a piece of meat with carrots, or a ham sandwich.

Not a lot of options, but hey, food was food.

As he walked down the white halls, passing numerous doors and other kids and agents, someone bumped into him. Theseus steadied himself easily, taking a step back as he looked at the kid that did it.

It was one of Georges's top students who thought they were the best.

“Watch where you're going, stupid fucking bird.” He mocked him, a smile tugging at their lips. Theseus hadn’t bothered to learn his name, expecting him to not make it this far with that attitude.

“What? Bird got your tongue? Did Dream not allow you to speak?” He laughed, gaining the attention of the other students.

He knew Dream would not tolerate his one and only pupil being made fun of like this, his reputation was on the line, and he had to uphold it. So, Theseus did the one and only thing he could: fight.

As fast as a snake, Theseus lunged forward, grabbing him by the neck and slamming him into the wall. He took him by surprise, as he landed one good punch on his nose, breaking it with a satisfying crack, before he took a step back as blood began to run down his nose.

He didn't want to be too rough. Everyone was quiet now, eyeing Theseus warily. It seemed they all forget who trained him, after all. The kid wiped away the blood dripping down his chin, his angry brown eyes meeting his cool blue ones.

“You fucking piece of shit-“ He began, taking a step towards him.

“What is happening here?” Came an agent's voice. Theseus didn't take his eyes off of the student, even as they looked to see who it was.

“Nothing but a little friendly bout,” Theseus responded smoothly, glancing at the agent from the corner of his eye. They were one of the low-level ones. Theseus met their eyes, and the agent nodded.

“Alright, just don't take up so much space.” The agent said, before walking past, not looking at Theseus or the other kid. None of the other agents really messed with Theseus.

He glanced back at the other kid, his hands were in fists, and he was shaking angrily.

“What? Cat got your tongue, dumbass?” He asked, a smile on his lips before he walked off. He waited for the kid to come after him, but he never did. He enjoyed the upper hand he had here.

Anyways, he got his lunch, which was just bread and eggs, before returning to his room and getting his suit. He showered, changed, and preened his feathers so they were perfect. Whatever was happening today must be important.

He found Dream waiting outside his door before he leads him down the halls. Dream told him that he was meeting with the leader of The Hunters, Eret. Dream had mentioned them beforehand, referring to them as King Eret once. Theseus found it funny for a whole two seconds until the fear set in at the name.

Eret was not a person to be messed with.

Dream sat a hand on his shoulder.

“I know you will not embarrass me, Theseus.” Dream said sternly, a grave warning in his voice. If he fucked this up he would be in so much trouble.

“I won't.” Theseus stared at the door in front of him, Eret’s office. Eret had specifically asked for him. He wasn't sure why- he hadn't done anything bad, right? Not that he remembered.

His nerves were going haywire right now, anxiety pooling in his stomach. What could Eret want with him?

“Come in.” A deep voice called from behind the door. Theseus couldn't help but flinch, and he imagined Dream had a disappointed look on his face as he leaned in close to him.

“Control your emotions.” He hissed in his ear, before pushing Theseus towards the door. He shakily nodded before taking a deep breath, pushing down his anxiety as much as he could, pulling the doorknob.

Inside it was really big; a whole office with a huge desk and a throne-like chair behind it, there was only a lamp lighting up the room on their desk in the darkroom. There was a person at the desk, with their feet up on the counter, leaning back in the chair. Bookshelves lined the walls and serval chairs and coffee tables were scattered around.

The door closed behind him, plunging him into darkness. Theseus stayed where he was, frozen in place. They cleared their throat.

“Take a seat, Theseus.” They nodded, and Theseus did as they said.

A silence stretched out between the two, as Theseus stared down at his hands awkwardly.
“You are allowed to talk. I don't know what Dream has taught you, but right now you can talk.” They didn’t say talk freely, but he had permission. Dream had told him Eret had ultimate control over everyone here.

“O-okay.” Theseus stuttered and internally wanted to bash his head in. They laughed in their deep voice, taking him by surprise as he looked up.

“You are not in trouble, so there is no need to be so scared of me, right now anyway.” Oh man, Eret was not someone to mess with. They were so intimidating. Theseus curtly nodded as he looked at them.

“I actually summoned you here to ask a favor,” Eret said. It sounded like he had no choice but to do whatever they said to- he never really had a choice.

“You know how The Hunters need to keep up our public image, yes?” They asked and he nodded.

“So, I want to use our only avian- the only avian in the city besides from that one hero- to show off.” Theseus’s heart sank. He was just some prize to be flaunted around.

“Not to mention how easily you could kill someone, even with wings on your back.” They praised him, and Theseus was absolutely soaring after that.

“I-I’ll do it,” Theseus said and Eret nodded.

“Perfect, I will need you later today then. Dream will bring you to me when it's time. Otherwise, I want you in your suit and looking your best. Clean up nicely, I wouldn’t want to be embarrassed.” There was a threat hidden in there, as Theseus nodded and waited to be dismissed.

“You can leave.” Eret nodded and Theseus stood up, before walking to the door and leaving rather quickly, letting out the breath he was holding in. Dream was waiting for him, nodding, before taking him back to his room.

Later that day Theseus was by Eret’s side, where they sat on the throne, with one leg over the other. Eret wore a golden crown on their head, along with blacked-out sunglasses, a long red cloak, with a white ruffled shirt, grey pants, and combat boots. They looked so regal and intimidating sitting on their throne.

Theseus was beside them, in his freshly cleaned suit. He had spent a long time scrubbing out the blood and patching the bullet and stab wounds.

His wings were proudly on display behind him, the feathers were all preened and not one was sticking the wrong way or ruffled. He was perched on the stair in front of the throne, like a dog waiting by its master(he hated that, it made him sick). Dream was to the right of the throne with George, and Sapnap and Punz were on the other side.

All of Eret’s prized agents and assets.

They were in front of a camera, with a small crowd of workers sitting in the chairs behind the camera. There was a staircase up to the throne, it was kind of like a mini stage.

Theseus’s thighs were burning from the position he was crouched in, but this was what Eret wanted him to do, and he wasn't about to fuck it up.

“Dream, is your bird well trained?” Eret asked Dream at his side.

“Yes, he is.” Dream responded while Theseus pretended he didn’t hear them talking about him literally over his shoulder. They always did this.

“On my signal near the end, I want him to fly and land on my armrest before I tell him to fly towards the camera.”

“He can do that. D’you hear that, Theseus? On my command fly to Eret’s side then do as he says.” Dream said, his tone neutral, but Theseus knew if he didn’t do it right he would probably be killed.

Theseus nodded his head, barely moving, scared of messing anything up.

“Perfect.” Eret nodded. Theseus felt less human as the time went on, and instead like some pet to them all because of his wings.

The person behind the camera gave the go-ahead signal, Theseus stayed perfectly still like some pretty porcelain doll.

“Today we send this video out to the EggPire under tense circumstances.” Eret began. The Eggpire? Theseus had never heard of them before.

“You all seem to be overstepping your boundaries and meddling with our businesses. We will not tolerate this any further. If you continue on what you are doing, we won't hesitate to put you back in place.” Eret said, Theseus could pick up the hidden threats in there. Eret would destroy everything they’ve built, kill them all, or enslave them to become workers or assets for them.

“I hope you will consider stepping back. It would be terrible if we had to send people to deal with you.” Eret tapped their hand, and Dream whistled lowly at him, a command- signal, he didn’t use often. Theseus spread his red and white wings before launching into the air, doing a small twirl in the air before he landed on the armrest just as Eret wanted, perching there with his wings flared behind him.

Eret ran a hand through his feathers, gently, their lips slightly pursed. Theseus resisted flinching.

“The Hunters are like hawks: we are beautiful and graceful, but our talons will pierce your flesh and our beaks will rip out your heart.” Eret grabbed his chin, pointing his head towards the camera.

“Go,” Eret whispered, and Theseus shot off towards the camera, soaring at it. The man behind the camera had to duck to avoid being hit as Theseus glided back around to Dream’s side.

Eret was standing now, a red feather in his hands. When did they get that—

“Good job, Theseus.” Eret smiled at him, before walking away, getting swarmed by all of his workers. Theseus stood up as he watched Eret leave. Dream patted his shoulder, and Theseus barely held in his flinch.

“Let’s go, we have work to do.” Dream said.

Theseus hadn’t seen Eret since then.

Chapter Text

“Theseus, this is Punz.” Dream introduced Punz, a man who wore a white hoodie and had light brown hair. His dark blue eyes were watching Tommy intently, he probably already knew three ways to take Tommy down just from the look in his eyes.

Punz stood with his arms crossed, his weight evenly distributed, ready to spring to action at any moment.

“Punz was once one of my best apprentices. He successfully graduated.” Dream said proudly, and Punz seemed to beam at the praise, even slightly.

“Not many make it that far.” There was an underlying threat in his tone. Punz was not a man to be messed with, just as good or even better than Dream.

“Anyways, I want my two favorite apprentices to spar.” Dream said with a smile in his voice. Tommy would normally melt over being called his favorite, but right now he needed to focus- even if it was a little hard to.

He wanted to prove to Dream just how good he was.

Tommy stared at Punz. He was most likely stronger than him; and trained more, he would have to play defensive and dance around Punz. If he got hit he would be down for the count.

“What rules?” Punz asked, moving his hands to his side.

“Weapons allowed, no powers.” Dream paused.

“Only one survivor.”

Tommy looked at Dream then back at Punz. Oh no. Oh no- he didn't want to die again!

Punz cracked his knuckles before pulling out a dagger. Tommy pulled out a dagger as well, getting into a fighting stance.

“Sounds good.” Punz began circling Tommy as Dream stepped back.

“Sorry Dream, but your new favorite won’t be making it out alive,” Punz said, his tone disgustingly light, his eyes never leaving Tommy.

“Have faith, Punz. Begin.” Dream nodded to them. Tommy hoped he did well to please Dream. He wanted nothing more than a hair ruffle for doing something Dream didn’t think he could do.

Tommy gripped his dagger tighter, watching Punz. He would wait for Punz to make the first move as they both circled each other.

Punz finally lunged forward, with practiced ease, as he swung his arm out at him, aiming a punch at his head. Tommy ducked and avoided getting kicked, before swinging his dagger at Punz. Punz easily dodged it and swung at him again, this time with the dagger.

Tommy quickly darted sideways, before lunging forward trying to slice his stomach. Punz quickly grabbed his arm and twisted it, Tommy bending with his arm so it wouldn’t break.

Punz drove the dagger into his shoulder as Tommy kicked his leg, making him let go of him but dragging the dagger through his flesh.

Tommy wanted to let out a cry of pain but he didn’t; he ignored the burning in his shoulder and gripped his dagger tighter, blood trickling down his arm.

“You’ve lasted longer than I expected. Good job.” Punz said as they began circling each other again.

“And I will continue on.” Tommy shot back. Punz raised an eyebrow.

“He talks?” He said amused.

“Yeah, bitch.” Tommy spat, waiting for Punz to take the next move.

Punz lunged forward and Tommy dodged, but Punz anticipated his move and kicked out his legs, his dagger driving into his stomach.

Tommy swung his dagger at Punz, as Punz grabbed his neck and slammed him into the ground. Tommy vainly struggled against Punz, trying to kick him off or anything— but Punz’s dagger was twisting in his stomach, blood pooling out, staining his grey shirt even more.

Tommy was going numb. He noticed that happened a lot when he was dying or in extreme pain. His advanced healing was desperately trying to save him but it was of no use. Punz had gotten him good.

Why did he die so much?

~~~~~~

“Cardinal.” Dream said. Theseus shook his head, focusing back on the present as he gave all of his undivided attention to Dream.

Cardinal was his code name for missions Dream had given him. Dream had also given him a special outfit specifically for missions- his suit. It was a red combat jacket, a bulletproof vest built into it, along with various pockets full of anything he could need. It even had two holes perfectly fitted for his wings, and even when they were away Tommy could put the fabric back with Velcro. In a pinch, if he needed his wings, they could come out without ripping the suit which was useful. He had a hood to hide his hair and he had well-padded black and red pants, his whole outfit following the scheme of red, black, and white. Two guns were in his holsters on his belt, along with a retractable sword and batons.

Theseus stared at Dream from behind his mask. His mask covered above his nose and his eyes, but let him see clearly through them.

It felt… nice being out. Dream never let him outside often.

This was one of his first real missions, he didn’t want to fuck it up.

“You know what to do?” Dream asked and he nodded from where he was perched on the roof of a building, his wings tucked neatly behind his back just how Dream taught him to do when not actually using them after he had gotten hit a couple of times.

His mission was to accompany Dream into the building for a meeting with the underground businesses. He was just supposed to be there really if things went south, and something about building his reputation.

He didn’t care, as long as he was with Dream everything would be fine.

“Good.” Dream clicked at him, short and high, the signal for scout ahead. Dream had taught him many- commands? No, signals. Signals sounded better. Theseus wordlessly dove off of the building, gliding into the night sky. It was an old abandoned warehouse they were at. There was a road that no one drove on, the whole area was pretty secluded. Perfect for crime.

Dream taught Theseus how to fly silently; like an owl, keeping his flaps minimal and not making sharp turns. His suit also helped him blend in, well, bedsides his wings, but there was nothing they could do about that.

Theseus silently landed on a window ceil of the warehouse, that overlooked everything down below. There was a catwalk with guards stationed on it, silent, in all black, hiding in the dark with their snipers.

On the bottom floor, there were stands and crates full of illegal shit- with quite the amount of customers. He knew there was more underground, that this was just the top of the surface.

He scanned the place for anything usual or any other snipers hiding but found none. He jumped off of the building, gliding away a couple of feet before shooting back up into the sky, and back to the building Dream was waiting on.

Theseus landed smoothly, tucking his wings behind his back as he stood up, turning to Dream.

“There are about ten snipers in the catwalks, otherwise it is as busy as ever,” Theseus reported. Dream nodded. This was his second time coming here with Dream.

“Let’s go.” Dream nodded, another command- signal for catch as he jumped off the roof. Theseus leaped after him, diving to catch him before flaring his wings and gliding them both safely to the ground. Dream wordlessly began walking to the warehouse, keeping to the shadows.

They slunk up to the warehouse, silently darting inside. A guard stopped them before he saw Dream, letting them go in without any further trouble. Theseus didn't know what they were in here for, but he didn't need to know. Dream had it all under control.

“Wings, Cardinal.” Dream brushed his fingers against his feathers, and Theseus nodded before they were retreating back into his back, Dream putting on the velcro so he didn't look stupid walking around with two holes in his suit.

Theseus fell right in place behind Dream, following after him, twisting and winding around people until they were going down.

“Cardinal, these people we are going to meet can be a little…strange.” Dream warned him.

“Remember the rules. Only do as I say.” Dream reminded him. Theseus wanted to say he didn’t need to be reminded of them; Dreams rules were ingrained into his brain, into his very being, but that would be breaking a rule, not to talk unless given permission or if it was life-threatening. Theseus only nodded, hanging his head slightly as they walked on.

Dream suddenly stopped in front of a door, Theseus having to dig his heels into the ground to avoid running into Dream.

Dream glanced at him before pushing the door open, walking inside. Theseus silently followed. It was much quieter down here in the halls of the underground part, full of tunnels and rooms.

There was small background chatter but that stopped when they came in. Theseus looked up for the first time, they were in a small waiting room of sorts, with two people sitting in chairs. One was wearing a purple hoodie with a big swirl on it, goggles in his messy brown hair, and the other had dirty blonde hair with a jacket of a blue tiger on it.

“Is Quackity available?” Dream asked them.

“Yeah… right through those doors.” Said the man with the blue cat on it, nodding to a door. The man with the goggles never took their eyes off of him- it was kind of creepy.

“Cardinal, wait here.” Dream ordered before he went into the other room.

“Hey Quackity—“ Dreams voice got cut off as the door slammed shut behind him.

Theseus just stood there, waiting for Dream to come back, and then they would get to leave, and maybe Dream would give him a head pat or praise him for how good he had been and they would watch tv together in the lounge or—

“Hey, kid, how are you?” The purple hoodie guy asked. Theseus glanced at him but said nothing because Dream never gave him permission and he just wasn't about to go breaking his rules.

“Don’t talk, huh.” He said, but it seemed those words had been said a thousand times over by him.

“I'm sorry for what that man has done to you.” He said as he stood up, shooting the blue cat guy a look before approaching him.

Tommy shifted his weight evenly, moving his feet into a fighting stance as he watched him carefully.

“I'm Karl, it's nice to meet you, Cardinal, right?” Karl held out his hand to shake, but Theseus wouldn’t give in to the obvious trap it was.

“Look! It’s Dream—“ The guy on the chair said, pointing behind Theseus. Theseus stupidly looked behind, relief washing over him at the prospect of Dream being back. Until he felt a sharp jab in his neck, and time seemed to slow for a moment as Theseus’s hand flashed out to grab Karl’s wrist, yanking his hand away from him.

Karl just stared at him with a wide expression, as Theseus pulled out the now empty syringe in his neck. What the fuck had he just been injected with?

His mind went racing back to the lab coat Ponk injecting him with that amber liquid that made him feel numb. The memory alone made him want to start breaking down- that had been one of his darkest times.

“Tommy listen to me—“ Theseus let him go, tossing the syringe on the ground as it shattered, barely holding back his flinch. Tommy— why did it sound so strange but familiar?

“What are you doing?” Dream snapped, standing in the doorway, taking in the scene in front of him. Karl looked frazzled and Theseus was just standing there, trying his best to not start shaking.

“D-Dream! I was just trying to talk to him- make conversation, you know? He doesn’t talk much, or say anything actually. Is he mute?” Karl asked as another man walked out into the room. He had a beanie on his head and wore an old tattered suit, a long scar running down his face.

“Sure.” Dream said so nonchalantly, but he was probably actually pissed. Theseus hoped he wouldn’t be in trouble because of this.

“Hey, Dream, how about we take your kid down to the fighting ring? No one’s seen an avian fight before.” Said the man in the blue hoodie with the blue cat. There was a challenge in his voice, something that seemed to egg Dream on. They were probably rivals.

Dream looked at Theseus, his expression hidden behind his mask, but Theseus could tell Dream was annoyed, very annoyed, with the twitch of his hands and how he was quiet for so long.

“Sure.” Dream said curtly.

“Only if my apprentice is allowed to kill your challenger.” Dreams voice took on a darker tone, as he stared at the man.

Theseus had killed before, a week after he arrived. Dream gave him a gun and told him to kill a traitor.

He did.

He would do anything for Dream.

“Don’t be so cocky, Dream. Who’s to say my challenger won’t kill yours?” He smiled, his eyes sparkling as he accepted the offer.

“Fair enough. Shall we do this now?” Dream rolled his shoulders. Theseus would win this fight.

“Let’s go.” He said and stood.

“Does it have to be to the death? Seems unnecessary.” Quackity chimed in.

“It raises the stakes.” The man shrugged.

“Beast—“ Karl said to the man, Beast, a pleading look in his eyes.

“No, no. It’s fine. Who knows, maybe the kid will surprise us.” Beast smiled at him.

Dream put a hand on his shoulder, pulling him out of the room.

“Cardinal, I know you won’t fail me, so make it entertaining.” Dream whispered into his ear. Theseus shortly nodded, ready to take this on. He would not fail Dream at all costs.

That’s how he ended up in the middle of a fighting ring, with his wings proudly on display. Dream told him to put on a show, so he will do just do that.

He was fighting against some slippery weasel-like guy, he was called… Slime? He heard people say. He had light brown hair and a big goofy smile on his face when he entered the ring. All of the people in the stands cheered for him, shouting for him. When Theseus had walked out not even one person cheered; not even Dream. But Dream wouldn’t do something as silly. He only got whispers and curious points from the shadowed people above.

Slime bowed and bowed, before looking at Theseus with a warm smile. Theseus was in a squat, his wings out behind him, flared, as he watched Slime with calculating eyes. Dream taught him when fighting with his wings to use them to his advantage; flying around, using them to distract, to dance around his attacker. It only really worked well in big spaces, which luckily there was plenty of room.

But don't take wings to a gunfight. It never ends well. He closed his eyes for a moment, trying to clear his mind of the time Dream- no, it wasn't Dream, or was it..? He swore he remembers seeing his smiley mask as he shot him down from the air before Theseus had hit his head.

It didn’t matter.

Theseus put all of his attention on the fight at hand, watching the showman in front of him. He had clearly been doing this a lot.

“Hi! I'm Slime- but you can call me Charlie!” He smiled at him, walking forwards, holding out his hand. Theseus watched him closely, Charlie paused in front of him, holding out his hand. Theseus nonchalantly looked up at where Dream was in the stands, by Beast, Karl, and Quackity, in the only lit-up section of the stands.

Dream gave him a small nod and Theseus stood up, his wings curling around him to make himself appear bigger than he was, and shook Charlie's hand.

“It is my pleasure to fight you!” Charlie said, bouncing on his feet.

“You know… only one of us is making it out alive?” Theseus asked quietly, unsure of why Charlie seemed so excited. It was solemn at best.

“Oh! I know!” Charlie’s smile widened.

“Okay then. Good knowing you.” Theseus shrugged.

“Me too!” Charlie held out his fist to him.

“Dap me up?” He asked, his green eyes sparkling. Theseus hesitated, he just stared at Charlie, dumbfounded. Why was he so friendly? One of them was going to die and he was trying to be friends with him? Theseus schooled all of his expressions from his face, before giving in and giving him a fist bump. Charlie laughed before retreating back to his side.

“Best of luck!” He waved at him. Theseus nodded back to him before crouching again, he would make the first move, and try and end it quickly- but making it as flashy as possible.

“Welcome back everyone to a fight to go down in history!” Beast’s voice rang out over the speakers.

“Today we have an avian guest with disclosed powers!” It sounded stupid when Beast said it, and Theseus could only imagine how mad Dream was about it. No one cheered.

“And our undefeated grand champion, the Slime!” This time the crowd cheered like crazy, making Theseus sigh. Theseus had been taught to never underestimate anyone, and he would most certainly not do it this time. Charlie didn’t look like or act like a cold-blooded fighter, murderer, but maybe his powers were something crazy strong.

“Rules of today's match are as follows: powers are allowed, but I’d like to see some combat in there too boys, and only one makes it out.” The crowd went silent before they began shouting.

“What a waste of such a prize!”

“Don’t kill the avian— those things are priceless!”

“You must reconsider!”

“I don't make the rules, folks. Well- actually I do, but not this time!” Beast responded to the crowd. Theseus didn’t react, only watching Slime. He must be really good.

“Ready, boys?” Beast asked. Theseus shot Dream one last glance, before nodding his head. Charlie did the same, cracking his knuckles.

“I was born ready!” Slime said cheerfully.

“On my mark—“ Beast paused for a couple of seconds, the tension growing between the two, and between the now-silent crowd, “begin!” Beast shouted and the crowd was in an uproar.

Theseus took the offensive, lunging at Charlie with a terrifying amount of speed, pulling out a dagger from his suit, flying through the air with practiced ease.

Charlie saw him coming, sidestepping, but Theseus anticipated that and flared his wings, changing directions fastly as he touched down on the ground, jumping back up, his dagger in hand as he went to plunge it into his shoulder.

But something weird happened. Right before Theseus’s dagger plunged into his flesh, he turned green and see-through, the dagger driven into the… goop? He easily pulled it out as he rolled away from Charlie, dust picking up as he watched Charlie, observing. He was completely green and goopy, a cheeky smile on his face. The crowd was going crazy, but Theseus tuned them out.

He could turn into goop in a split second, effectively keeping himself unharmed. He showed no signs of bleeding or even having a wound on his shoulder. He could only hurt him in his human form.

Slime hybrids were the worst to deal with. You had to be fast like a snake.

Charlie turned back to his human form, an apologetic look on his face as he flicked his hand, green goop shooting out of it. Theseus easily rolled out of the way, before dodging more goop being thrown at him. He can't let it hit his wings at all cost.

He took off into the sky, grabbing a throwing star and throwing them at Charlie, one after the other. The first hit him in the chest, lodging into his skin before he turned to goop and the others did no harm. Charlie winced as he pulled out the sharp stars, dropping them to the ground.

At least he got one hit on him. Theseus landed smoothly on the ground, his hand resting on the gun at his side as he waited for Charlie to move. Charlie was getting ready to throw more goop, and Theseus was on his toes again, dodging the throws and trying not to step in the drying goop on the ground, dancing around effortlessly.

After what felt like ages, and ignoring the one time Charlie managed to get a small amount of goop on the end of his wings, Charlie turned back to his human form. Theseus took the opportunity. He branded a throwing dagger, tossing it up in the air as it twirled, to distract Charlie. It worked, his eyes followed it up, as Theseus grabbed his gun, turning off the safety, aiming, and pulling the trigger. A moment later he caught the throwing knife and threw that too.

The bang resounded in the room, as the bullet hit its target. Charlie was pushed back from the force of impact, as it hit him in the chest, turning to goop a moment too late. The dagger lodged into his goopy stomach, before he fell backward, gasping.

Theseus didn’t realize how quiet the crowd was now. He stood there for a moment, panting before he walked over to Charlie. He had no idea if he was dead or alive.

“It seems to appear… the avian has defeated my champion!” Beast called out, and people cheered; not as loudly as they did for Charlie, but at least they cheered. That was all something he could work with.

Quackity was the first one down, shooting Theseus a wary look before kneeling beside Charlie. It all happened in a blur, as they dragged Charlie off, leaving behind a trail of goop, and Dream leading him back into the underground part of the arena before he said a few words to Beast and then left.

Theseus was certain he saw Charlie sitting up with a big smile on his face as he laughed at something Quackity said.

Chapter Text

“Hey, Tubso, what’s the plan for today?” Tommy asked from where he sat on the old couch, lazily scrolling through tv channels, as Tubbo typed away on his computer.

“Well, we could go to the park and sit on our bench?”

“Our crime bench?” Tommy jumped up excitedly. He loved their crime bench!

”Yes, Tommy, the only bench we ever go to.” Tubbo rolled his eyes as he looked at Tommy.

“Are we going to commit some crimes?” Tommy raised an eyebrow, remembering the times when Tubbo would need a break away from… whatever illegal shit he always is doing and would figure it out on the bench, and then they’d be running back to the apartment together.

The bench is where he decided he would do one of the stupidest and illegal things; become a vigilante. The bench never fails them.

“Possibly.”

“How about some ice cream too?” Tommy was bouncing on his feet, a smile on his face.

“I don't know bout’ that…” Tubbo saw the absolutely heart-broken expression on Tommy’s face, his lip was wobbling and Tommy was about to start ugly sobbing, a thing Tubbo did not want to hear and a one-way ticket to getting what he wanted.

“Alright- fine! I don't want to listen to your ugly fucking crying!”

“Yay! Let’s go, right now!” Tommy practically dragged Tubbo away from his computer, mumbling curses at him as they both struggled out of the apartment.

~~~~~~

Theseus woke up panting; he was completely covered in sweat even though he only had a thin blanket on. His heart was pounding so fast in his chest, and he had a massive headache, but for whatever reason he felt… happy. Whatever that dream was must have been a good memory.

But why was he remembering all of a sudden?

Tubbo… hadn’t crossed his mind in a long time. Sadness crept up in him at the thought of it, a deep sadness that just wouldn’t disappear.

Wilbur suddenly came to mind. The hotel. Moving out. He had… forgotten about all of it.

He didn’t sleep for the rest of the night.

The next morning Theseus found his way to the lounge that Dream was in every morning, usually to talk to George or Sapnap or go over the plans for the day. Theseus went there to be near Dream. Sometimes Punz was there too.

He didn’t like to admit it, but he was pretty dependent on Dream. Dream knew that, and Theseus wasn't sure how he felt about it. Dream probably wanted him to be dependent on him, he realized as he thought about it. Even Punz still came by often just to see Dream- Dream was his everything.

He was like an older brother to him. Theseus wanted to be like Dream.

Dream was hard to read, but Theseus found small cues of his annoyance or anger here and there.

Theseus opened the door to Dream standing at the table with George and Sapnap, looking at papers on it. When he saw Dream he couldn't help but feel upset about his dreams and exhausted from his lack of sleep, not even including the events that happened last night.

“Dream?” Theseus asked quietly, and Dream turned his head right on cue like he had a million times before. Dream held out his arm to him, and Theseus all but collapsed into the man. Dream wrapped an arm around him as he hid his face in his shirt; trying to hold back the tears as Dream rang his fingers through his curly hair.

“Bad dream?” Dream guessed and he nodded.

“What was it about?” Dream asked kindly, as he rubbed circles on his back. Theseus looked up at Dream, he imagined his face was all puffy and his eyes were watery. His head was all one big mess right now. He was remembering things he had long forgotten about and he didn’t know why and he wanted to go and find Tubbo- oh he must be so worried about and then there was Wilbur and he missed Wilbur so badly and his stupid fucking jokes and they had only known each other for a week but it felt like they were brothers and then Sam who cared about him so much Sam must have been devastated- and oh, he was rambling, which was also a thing he did in the past—

“I don’t know why… but I-I’m remembering my life before here,” Theseus whispered. He wasn’t sure if this would get him into trouble or not. He knew he had a life before this, he just didn’t know what it was really- he remembered Tubbo, and that was about all his mind retained before Dream became his everything.

“How did… how did I get here? What happened to—“ Dreams grip on him tightened, and oh no was that not a good sing, Theseus had angered him. He stayed quiet as he watched Dream with watery eyes, fear fluttering in his stomach.

“I think I will be taking Theseus to the training room for a bit.” Dream said to the other two, his voice scarily even as George just nodded coldly, while Sapnap titled his head at that. Theseus knew what he meant; Dream was going to punish him. There was nothing he could do… unless he fought back?

No. Never. Dream was his friend- mentor, Dream knew what was best for him anyway. He glanced at the smile scar on his wrist. He belonged to Dream.

That felt wrong.

“What are you going to do?” Sapnap asked.

“I think you know.”

“But why? The kid did nothing wrong.” Sapnap was standing up for him. Huh. Usually Theseus would be angry, because he deserved his punishments, but all he felt was a strange brother-like warmth in his chest. George raised an eyebrow at that.

“Sap, don’t question Dreams training.” George looked at Dream then back at Sapnap.

“I know- but, just- this isn't why I’m a trainer anymore!” Sapnap shook his head frustrated, before storming out of the room. Sapnap had lost his final student about a week ago and had decided to resign from being a teacher. It must have hit him hard.

“Sapnap’s been in a mood lately, Dream. Pay him no mind.” George picked up a paper as Dream began leading Theseus out, a tight grip on his arm. He wasn't going to run away.

“Can you get his temper under control before I return? I would hate to have to put him back into place.” Dream said darkly, his cloak whisking out behind him as they left.

Theseus swore this has happened a thousand times over but he can’t seem to remember it. It was all familiar but strange. Dream had a very tight grip on his arm, as he dragged him to the training room, and told him to stand still and not react to anything that happened.

Theseus, of course, did as he said. He always did. Dream produced a knife out of nowhere, before kicking him to the ground mercilessly. Dream stepped on his arm and grabbed his hand, before pulling up. A sickening crack vibrated through his whole body, as black dots filled his vision and white pain erupted in his arm.

Dream broke his arm. And for what? Theseus wasn’t even sure.

He barely knew what happened next, as Dream stabbed him in his stomach, saying things he couldn’t understand, nor did he really want to; he was barely hanging on by a thread, trying to stay awake.

Did he want to stay awake?

Dream would want him to.

As he was getting close to unconsciousness, black dots covering most of his vision, so much pain he just felt numb, flashes of green followed him into the darkness he longed for.

He opened his eyes to a dark void, slightly illuminated by green. He held up a hand, there was a green string tied around his wrist. He looked at his other hand, the same thing, and then his ankles. Something tightened around his neck and suddenly he was strung up, choking, as the strings all pulled on his limbs and neck as he floated in the void.

He wanted to scream-he wanted to do something than just hang there like some fucking puppet being pulled by strings-

Suddenly all of these emotions were brought forth; sorrow, guilt, but also genuine happiness. Tubbo came to his mind, they had been best friends for as long as he could remember... He felt it slipping his mind as if it was being pulled away by someone. He didn’t want to forget Tubbo again. He pulled against the strings, desperately trying to fight it.

Wilbur came to him next. He would never admit this but Wilbur felt like his older brother to him, with his stupid cheeky grin and jokes. They got along so well, and Theseus- no, Tommy- would always have a special place for him in his heart.

Since when had he been Theseus? He would ponder that later, but right now, he was trying his hardest not to forget.

He tugged harder at the strings, as more and more of the string began to stretch further and further, and memories he didn’t know he had come back to him.

His old apartment and how they got kicked out. His booming vigilante career. Meeting the Angel- oh how could he forget that! His job at the hotel, Eyrn- which who knows what the fuck he’s been doing. His new apartment in Pogtopia that was absolute shit, honestly, why had Tubbo gotten the one with the most stains in it?

One of the strings snapped, letting his arm be free. He scrambled to pull at the one digging into his neck, desperately trying to break it as he clawed his way through the string that was choking him, snapping it. The other strings followed shortly after, snapping one after the other, and suddenly he was plunging into the darkness.

The darkness surrounded him, it consumed him: his mind, his eyes, his very being.

It tempted him with its sweet luxury of peace, quiet, and no more pain- but Tommy knew he couldn’t stay here, no matter how good it sounded.

This wasn’t where he belonged.

~~~~~~

Dream harshly slapped him across his cheek, bringing tears to his eyes at how hard it was. But he didn’t fight back against him, he never would, he belonged to Dream and must do as he says. Always.

“Theseus, how many times have I told you not to eat without my permission?” Dream snapped at him. Dream said he had a bad habit of eating anything he was given and to ask permission first. His food could be poisoned or something.

“I-I’m sorry.” Theseus looked down at his hands, hanging his head. He hated making Dream mad and was angry at himself for messing up, again. He always messed up. Dream put a hand on his head, ruffling his hair. Theseus leaned into the touch unconsciously and internally hated himself for it.

“I know your learning still, but that doesn’t mean you won't get out of punishments.” Dream cooed at him, and Theseus nodded.

“Come along now, my pretty little bird, we have work to do.” Dream stood up, Theseus following after him, leaving behind his metal plate with a piece of half-eaten bread and carrots. He never ate with the other students. When he asked Dream why, he said that he was special and wasn't like them.

He didn’t see how he was any more special than them, but he felt light nonetheless. Dream thought he was special. That was enough for him.

~~~~~

Theseus woke up with a start. He was back in his bed, in his room. He had a massive headache, and his mind was all fuzzy. He could barely tell what was going on around him.

He didn’t feel solid- grounded, his mind was floating out of his body, off somewhere else, leaving him behind confused and scared.

He just sat in bed, staring up at the ceiling, as he tried to figure out what happened. Everything was all blurry.

Tubbo came to his mind and then everything else came crashing down on him. He let out a whimper of pain as memories spilled into his head, one after the other- he barely knew what was happening. There was so, so much he was remembering.

It was all too much. Everything was too much- his whole life was practically a lie.

All of these memories flooding his mind was of a person he barely recognized, he barely knew. The person he was before was gone- never to be seen in all his entirety again.

That crushed his heart, his spirit. The naive, young, innocent kid he was before was gone, lost to some monster-

His chest tightened as he held in a sob, digging his fingernails into his palms, drawing blood.

He knew two things for certain: One, Dream had tried to tighten his control on him after he was starting to remember. That was obvious.

Two, he can’t let Dream know what he knows, or he will try it again.

A deep fear settled in his stomach, something he hadn’t felt in a long time.

Dream had been manipulating him this whole time, and he was so enthralled with Dream he never noticed everything else going on in the background.

It was sick, all of it was sick and cruel and- and terrible. His eyes wandered to his wrist, where it sat beside him. He didn’t want to look.

His wrist flipped over slowly, his whole hand shaking violently, as he stared wide-eyed at the smile branded onto his wrist, forever.

Forever a reminder of who he belonged to- of who did this to him.

No matter how much he tried, how much he willed and wanted himself to hate Dream, he couldn’t. He just couldn’t- and that was the worst of all of it.

He just let Dream do whatever the fuck he wanted to him.

Theseus had just let him do it.

Dream had broken him and fully gained control of him that day.

He flinched when the door opened, his eyes snapping to the person in the door. Dream.

He still wanted to be around Dream, he realized, and George and Sapnap. It was all sick and terrible, his need for them.

“Get cleaned up, Eret wants you again in two hours.” Dream ordered, before closing his door and walking away.

Theseus took a deep breath in before looking down at his hands. Dread filled his whole body at the prospect of being around the one person that organizes all of this, making himself pale even more.

How would he survive being around Eret right now?

~~~~~

Two hours later, after Theseus had taken a shower and preened his feathers to perfection, he was in the training room with Eret. Dream had just dropped him off, and Eret told him to leave.

It was just the two of them. Theseus was very nervous, but he tried not to show it.

“Theseus, it’s nice to see you again,” Eret said with a nod, their glasses hiding their eyes.

Theseus nodded his head as he stared at the ground. What did Eret want with him?

“Has something happened to you?” Eret asked curiously.

“N-no, sir,” Theseus said, stuttering. He was extremely nervous around Eret.

“Hm.” Eret took a step towards him, before lunging for his neck, his red cloak billowing out behind him as he slammed Theseus to the ground.

Theseus just stared at Eret, letting it all happen. There was nothing he could do.

“Fight back.” Eret hissed at him, and Theseus obeyed, clawing at his hands as his wings flapped out as he attempted to kick Eret, succeeding in knocking one of their legs out. He grabbed onto their arm and pried their fingers off of his neck, panting as he twisted Eret’s arm and quickly scrambled up, but not before Eret grabbed him by the wings and pulled him back.

Eret was gripping his wings in a way if he moved the fragile bones would snap. His back was hurting from being pulled and his heart was pounding. He stayed deathly still, desperately trying to think of a way to escape.

“What will you do, Theseus?” Eret asked. This was a test. He knew it was.

This wasn’t right.

He let himself slip and Theseus take back the reigns: which didn't make a lot of sense in the moment but it did to him.

What would Dream do? Theseus took a mental count of his weapons, two daggers in his boots, one in his pocket, one knife under his sleeve. Two guns on his holster, along with his batons.

He slipped down his knife from his sleeve, before in one motion jabbing the knife behind him at Eret’s leg; it hit its mark, as Theseus ducked, hoping Eret would let go of his wings.

But they didn't.

He heard the sickening crack that made him want to throw up as pain flared in his wings, before he grabbed his gun, turned the safety off, and shot behind him at Eret. Aiming for anything and everything, bang after bang as he ripped his wings free from their iron grip.

Theseus stumbled forward, before leaping as far away as he could, his wings hanging limply behind him. He was shaking badly, he wanted to be sick, and a fit of uncontrolled anger was boiling up in him.

He crouched down, allowing his wings to rest on the ground as his healing started working. He didn't even look at them, if he did, he would have thrown up from the way it was bent funny and the bone sticking out of it at awkward angles.

Ignoring the pain, he pointed his gun at Eret, who had pulled out the knife in their leg, blood pouring out of it and onto the floor as they threw the dagger back at him. Eret was otherwise uninjured.

“Good job, Theseus.” Eret nodded to him.

“You did the right thing there. Stand down now.” Eret ordered, and Theseus did so without a second thought, putting the safety back on as he put his gun away, and slowly reached for his bloody knife on the ground, wiping it clean before sliding it back up his sleeve.

He heard a couple of snaps and cracks behind him and internally shuddered, feeling the need to throw up, his stomach churning.

“Come here,” Eret ordered, and Theseus did so, standing up and walking over to him, even though he didn’t want to go anywhere near this sick person, cautiously, on edge from what just happened.

Eret seemed to eye him up and down, before grabbing his chin and turning his head which way, his eyes lingering on the smile on his neck for a couple of moments too long.

“Tell me, what commands has Dream taught you?” Eret asked as he stepped back, watching him. Theseus just stared down at his feet, uncertain and fearful.

“He taught me many commands, like combat ones, stealth, reconnaissance, per-performance ones.” Theseus stuttered quite a bit or messed up his words, his voice just barely above a whisper.

“Perfect.” Eret nodded.

“Turn around,” Eret ordered, and Theseus listened like the stupid fucking animal he was.

He wasn’t an animal.

He shivered as Eret touched his newly healed wings; much gentler this time, as they extended one to its full length, pulling on the feathers slightly.

“I've always been intrigued by avians wings,” Eret commented. Theseus said nothing, a deep pit of fear swelling in his stomach. He instinctively pulled his wings into his back, as tight as they could get, and Eret laughed.

“Do not worry, my little birdy, as long as you stay loyal to me nothing will ever happen to your wings.” Their fingers brushed over them and Theseus flinched.

“Look at me,” Eret said and Theseus turned around to do so, terrified of what Eret would do if he didn’t listen.

“You are going to be my new apprentice,” Eret said, a smug look on their face, and Theseus felt the whole world collapse around him. No- no, he couldn't be under Eret’s control- not theirs! He thought Dream was bad, but Eret was even worse.

“But I’m Dream’s—“ Eret slapped him, hard, shutting him up immediately. That seemed to have made him angry. Theseus felt a certain dread building up in him, he belonged to Dream- no, he didn't- but he enjoyed being by Dream and his hair ruffles and his hugs and how they worked so well on missions and training together and the meals they would share. He didn't want to give that up.

“You are not Dreams anymore.” Eret hissed out, grabbing his face, their nails digging into his skin. It seemed he had no choice. He never had a choice.

“You are now my pet, you hear me?” Eret asked, and Theseus nodded. He didn’t want to. He didn't want any of this, but here he was, being handled like a fucking animal, from one bad owner to the next.

“You are coming with me.” Eret let go of him, before tapping something on their watch, and Dream pushed open the doors, his white smiley mask staring at him. He could feel his stare boring into him, probably taking in the ruffled feathers, how pale his face was, and the terrified expression on his face.

He wanted to run to Dream and tell him to not let Eret take him away from him. His fingers twitched as he longingly stared at Dream, before Eret snapped at him to get behind them.

“Dream, you should be proud of your apprentice. I see the potential in him and I am taking over his training.” Eret nodded at Dream.

“I would like to have a few training sessions with you present so I can learn the commands.” Eret continued, and Dream was silent, his silence said a lot.

“Eret, don’t lie to me or yourself, you just want him to be your personal pet.” Dream said coldly. Theseus could tell Dream was fuming, as Theseus looked at him from behind Eret with pleading eyes.

“Your right, Dream. I do.” They shrugged.

“But it's none of your concern now. Theseus is mine now, you have been relieved of your duties.”

Dream was silent again, perhaps going over what he was going to say next. Theseus hoped he would somehow make Eret believe he was no good without Dream.

“I still need him for missions.” Dream said slowly.

“And I well lend him out to you.”

“That just seems unnecessary.” Dream said.

“Why don’t I finish his training and then when he has graduated he can become your… pet?” Dream suggested. It sounded right, it sounded like a good idea, everyone but Theseus would be happy.

“Dream, you must be forgetting your place.” Eret shot him down instantly.

“I am the one in charge here, I already decided what I was doing-“

”Without even consulting me!” Dream snapped suddenly, cutting Eret off.

“Your getting quite bold, Dream. I would watch your next words carefully.”

“I'm… sorry.” It sounded forced, Dream was not sorry and everyone here knew it, but it pleased Eret.

“You are right. I will… make sure Theseus’ belongings are moved out and to his new room.” Dream gritted the words out, he was fuming, his hands clenched into fists at his side.

“Excellent. You can move his things to my office.” Eret said. Dream flinched at that but pretended nothing had happened as he went to leave before pausing.

“Can I have a word with Theseus?” He asked, his white mask boring into the side of his head.

“Sure. I will be just outside. Take your time.” Eret began walking away.

“I know how hard this must be,” Eret said as they walked past Dream, leaving the training room. When the door clicked closed behind him, Theseus basically launched himself at Dream, he couldn't stop the tears this time.

“D-Dream- don't let t-them take me aw-away from you!” Theseus sobbed out quietly into Dreams shirt, as Dream wrapped an arm around him and ran his fingers through his hair.

“It’ll be okay, Theseus. Trust me, I will try my hardest to get you back.” Dream cooed at him.

“D-Dream, I do-don't want to leave you!” He tightened his grip on the man. Eret was cold and heartless and terrifying- he would be living in fear for the rest of his life!

“I promise you, that if I can’t have you, then no one can.” Dream whispered, barely audible, but Theseus still heard it. Theseus gripped him tighter, silently sobbing.

Why was his life such a mess?

Chapter Text

Theseus let Eret do anything to him, because what other option did he have? Including but not limited to: Eret brutally burning the skin on his wrist to get rid of Dream's smile, but for some reason, they left the one on his neck and imprinted their symbol on his wrist. It looked like a bunch of lines to Theseus but maybe it meant something to Eret. Eret had to burn his skin for ages for the scars to stick, the pain was numbing, Theseus had zoned out halfway through it, practically leaving his body and thinking about his life before this.

He wanted to remember.

Eret used him a lot in propaganda, or to show their control over everyone they have here, by using Theseus as an example of what they can do. It wasn’t fun or pretty.

Eret also put a collar on his neck- a fucking collar like he was some dog. And the most dehumanizing part of it, was when they were away or had no use for Theseus, they would tie him up to a pole for hours in their office.

His spirit was being broken. He was breaking again.

Right now, Eret was running their fingers through his feathers, as if he was being preened, but Theseus hated it. All he could think of was Eret snapping his fragile bones and ripping his feathers out, his wings dully aching from just the thought. He tried his best not to shiver or flinch every time Eret ran their hands through his feathers.

Dream didn't touch his wings unless it was to get something out of them or move them aside when they got in the way, which Theseus appreciated greatly.

Theseus was laying on the ground by Eret’s desk, his head resting on his hands and the leash tied up to the wall, the collar digging into his neck.

He was itching to do something.

There was a knock at the door, and Theseus shot up, fluttering over to his spot in the office, a stupid fucking perch Eret insisted(demanded) he sat on every time someone visited Eret. So he did that, perching on it, overlooking the room below him. He felt like some show-bird or hawk or some shit like that, he was the little side-kick pet to Eret.

“Come in,” Eret called. Theseus hoped it was Dream so badly. A familiar green-cloaked man stepped in and his spirits soared. Dream had come to save him! A small chirp built up in his throat but he squashed it down, as Dream froze, staring at Theseus for a long moment.

“Eret, I need Theseus for a mission.” Dream said after a moment, sitting down in front of Eret.

“For which mission?” Eret asked as they pulled out some papers.

“For the assassination.” Dream replied curtly, almost as if he had recited what he was going to say a thousand times over.

“Why do you need him?” Eret crossed their legs, staring intently at Dream from behind their black shades.

“We need someone watching the building at all exits and be able to intercept the target if he leaves.” Dream explained, keeping his voice even and level. Theseus was quite impressed: whenever he talked to Eret he always stuttered and could never manage to get out a full sentence.

“Theseus can move the fastest of us all, and can hold up until one of us get there if he does leave.” Dream added on. Theseus was beaming at the praise, wanting so badly to fly over to Dream and hug him. He wanted Dream to tell him everything would be alright- er, didn't Dream get him in this mess to begin with?

Shouldn't he hate Dream with his whole being? He should feel something, some type of hate or hurt or- anything. But all he felt was this deep sadness, knowing it was all a lie, a lie he wanted to keep believing.

Eret considered it, their lips pursing ever so slightly.

“You know I don’t like to share.” Eret titled their head, flicking his hand to call Theseus over. Theseus's heart sank as he tensed his muscles, ready to launch himself off of the pole. He fucking hated Eret, he knew that for sure.

Theseus launched off of his pole and landed beside Eret who grabbed his leash and pulled him closer to them, slightly choking him. Theseus wanted to lash out but if he did he was as good as dead- even if death was already tempting enough.

He was just kidding. But, at that moment, he really couldn't keep his mind very positive.

“You know how easily this man can escape, slip away without anyone seeing him for days.” Dream went on as Eret began to pet his hair, and Theseus unconsciously leaned into the nice gentle touch, not even realizing it.

There was a long stretch of silence, as Eret and Dream seemed to have a stare off from behind their masks and sunglasses. Why the fuck was Eret even wearing sunglasses indoors?

“Fine,” Eret said, but they didn’t let go of Theseus, not yet.

“I want the guy this time, especially if I’m handing over my prized possession to get it done.” Eret's grip on him tightened and Theseus stiffened, his mind flashing back to Eret breaking his wings, the sickening crack vibrating through his chest, the immense pain flaring from his fragile bones-

“We will get it done.” Dream's voice pulled him back to the present. The present, yes, he needed to stay here.

“Perfect.” Eret smiled with their unnaturally white as fuck teeth which they must use some whitening product because there was no way-

“I will need Theseus later today. I’ll come to collect him at five. Please have him ready by then.” Dream said as he stood up rather abruptly, his green cloak billowing out behind him. Eret watched him the whole time, their fingers gripping his golden and white hair tightly until they suddenly let go, and Theseus breath a sigh of relief.

“He will be.” Eret now was running their hands through his feathers, as Dream paused to watch him pull a wing out to its full length like he was playing with some toy. Theseus tensed, his blue eyes begging Dream to do something.

He hated this, he fucking hated it- he flinched as Eret pulled his wing a little more. Eret must enjoy torturing him like this.

“He doesn’t like his wings being touched.” Dream said slowly, as he took in everything happening here. Theseus was practically begging Dream with his yees to save him.

“He’s never told me that.” Eret didn’t stop messing with his wings and Theseus wanted to cry out to Dream.

“I see.” Dream said, lingering for a moment longer before he left him behind with the monster Eret was. Eret kept him there for a while longer, mindlessly running their fingers through his feathers, before grabbing his leash and standing up.

Theseus was dragged along, the collar blocking his airway as he stumbled after Eret, trying as quietly as he could to gasp for breath.

He was so, so hungry. The few days he had been here Eret barely fed him, even less than Dream had. He felt hollow inside, exhausted, empty. His mind was spiraling as his life became consumed by one thing: Eret.

“You are allowed to go and prepare for your mission. You have permission to eat.” Eret said as they unclipped him. Theseus felt a little spark of joy flutter up in his chest- he was actually allowed out of this horrible room! And he could eat- what a fucking bonus.

“I want you back here in an hour,” Eret said before pulling him in for a hug. Theseus stiffened before he melted into the touch, just how Eret liked it.

Eret smiled and ruffled his hair, Theseus leaning into them before letting go of them.

“Do as I said, my little bird.” Theseus left, to get weapons, eat, and meet with Dream.

~~~~~~

The mission came faster than expected. Eret possessively hugged him before letting Dream take him, George and Sapnap coming with him.

Theseus felt like he was able to breathe after being away from Eret again: this time he was back with Dream and his friends.

Theseus had no clue where they were going, but when they stepped out of the car, Dream took off his green cloak, and underneath were clothes that looked like he was going clubbing. Fishnets, tight skinned black clothing, and he even took off his white mask and replaced it with a face-covering over his mouth and nose, his green eyes and freckles out for everyone to see. As Theseus looked closer, he also saw the tiny white scars dotting his face.

Theseus had seen Dream maskless before, usually when he had fucked up really badly. It was never good for Dream to be mask-less, but Theseus liked being able to tell what his expressions were a bit easier.

George was wearing similar clothing and so was Sapnap, all looking like they were going to party, while Theseus was in his red and black suit, his wings away for the moment.

“Theseus,” Dream said suddenly as they hung back in the shadows, a tight grip on his shoulders, his green eyes seemingly staring into his soul.

“What has Eret done to you?” Dream slowly reached out to his neck, twisting the collar until he was able to unlatch the stupid thing and tossed it with all the hate in the world into an alley. Theseus just stared at the ground, his whole body tense.

“Answer me.” And there was that commanding voice Dream had, and it always worked.

“Eret… did this.” Theseus held out his wrist where there used to be Dream's smile. He was certain Dream would be angry. He didn’t look at it as Dream roughly grabbed his wrist, tracing the new pink scars with his finger.

“He also… leashed me up,” Theseus mumbled.

“I saw.” Dream grabbed his chin, turning his head to stare at his neck, making sure that at least one of his marks was still there.

Which it was, last time he checked anyways. He honestly would prefer if he had no marks on his skin.

“Theseus…” Dream gritted his teeth, his green eyes boring into the smile scar on his neck, his grip tightening on his chin. Theseus thought he was about to get into trouble: there was nothing he could have done to help any of this.

“You know what to do.” Theseus eyes flashed to Dreams green ones. Something was off with his voice as he let go of him, there was something sad in it, and that confused him. His words held so many different meanings Theseus wasn’t sure he could handle it- it was all overwhelming.

“What— Dream-“ Theseus stumbled forwards, hurt welling up in his chest. He didn’t want to leave- he did but he didn’t want to- he was just confused!

“Eret has done you no good... If any of us could do it you can.” Dream seemed like he was mad, his fists were clenched as he stared at Theseus with those dark green eyes.

What was Dream saying? He wanted Theseus to run away- there was no way it was going to fucking work! Dream must be insane, Eret would just send someone after him, most likely Dream to bring him back.

Theseus hugged Dream one last time, tears welling up in his eyes. Why was he so sad to say goodbye to Dream? He longed this moment- the moment he was able to escape. The moment he regained some type of freedom. The moment he could be himself again.

Even if Dream had hurt him, killed him, it was all for something right- or was it? All Dream did was bad for him. Manipulated him. But there was something he could never shake, his want- no, need for Dream. Dream was like his family, in some cruel twisted way he didn't quite understand.

“Goodbye…” Theseus tried to hold back his tears but he couldn’t, as they fell from his eyes and onto his cheek, dripping down onto the concrete below. Dream ruffled his hair one last time, the touch was so nice and genuine Theseus felt his heart cracking.

“Goodbye, Tommy.”Dream let him go, before slinking off to meet with George and Sapnap, casting one last look at him. Their eyes met, Dream giving him a nod before he disappeared from sight.

They never needed someone to look out, did they?

Theseus- no, Tommy? He wasn’t sure. He didn’t know anymore. His mind was clouded, the fog never seemed to leave. But some of it lifted when Dream called him by a name he hadn’t heard in a long time.

Tommy... yeah. That was right. He was Tommy, not fucking Theseus.

Tommy.

That was his name.

He wanted to find Tubbo. Wilbur. Anyone really.

Part of him was tempted to go back to the club and help Dream and them, but they didn’t need it.

Part of him wanted to stay with Dream. Dream owned him after all- no, not anymore. No one does.

He was… free. He could make his own choices! It had been so, so long— forever, ages, eons, a fucking millennia.

He was walking the empty streets in his suit. Not a good idea. He climbed up the side of a building with practiced ease, perching on the rooftops.

Off in the distance, he saw the hero tower shining brightly in the night. He recognized where he was: in upper L’manberg, one of the most dangerous spots to be in. Especially as someone who is dressed like a vigilante, in the middle of the night, on a roof.

But he couldn’t be bothered to move, as he crouched there, before falling back on the rooftop, staring up at the night sky, the stars shining down on him. He wrapped his wings around himself, relishing in the comfort it gave him.

He wasn’t used to this. He wasn’t used to being alone(someone not watching over him), being away from Dream-

He should go back. Dream would want him to go back.

But Dream wanted him to leave. If Dream couldn’t have him, no one could.

In his confused daze, he didn’t notice the person that snuck upon him.

“What are you doing, Theseus?” Immediately he was up, not recognizing the voice but they knew his name. A dagger was in his hands as he stared at the man in front of him, his body tense and ready for a fight.

He wore a gas mask on his face, along with golden amour, various gadgets and weapons on his belt, and a trident in his hands. He had green messy hair and looked terrifying.

The Warden.

The name sent chills down his spine. The Warden was not someone to fuck around with- he was known for not playing around. He was very dangerous.

“What business do The Hunters have here?” He asked, his voice deep and scratchy. He was definitely using a voice changer.

“I-“ He stopped himself, he didn’t have permission to talk- wait, he was free. He cleared his throat before deepening his voice.

“I don’t belong to them anymore.” He said slowly, keeping his voice deep. Wait, how did he even know who the Hunters are-

“What happened? Their leader's pet running away?” The Warden teased, almost a mocking tone in his voice. He froze up.

“I’m no one’s pet.” Tommy- yeah, Tommy spat at him, bristling up.

“Their star assassin has left? Why would that be?” The warden stepped towards him. Tommy wanted to scoff- he hadn’t even graduated apprenticeship.

“It's none of your business.” Tommy took a step back towards the edge, his wings itching to be let out.

“Well, Theseus, it kind of is.” The Warden gripped his trident tighter, advancing even more.

“Now, you can come with me willingly, but I believe I know which option you're already taking.” Tommy was already falling off the building before he could finish, his wings growing out of his back and catching him, as he flew to the ground gracefully.

Before he even got there though, something whizzed past him as he tucked in his wings, the trident lodging into the concrete below him. Tommy looked up as the Warden jumped off the roof, landing on the ground, cracking the concrete underneath his feet but unharmed.

Tommy pulled out one of his guns and aimed it at him, pulling the trigger as he shot at his chest, but a shield around him deflected the bullets.

“Damnit,” Tommy whispered under his breath as the Warden made his way over. A fucking Sheila- out of everything, he had to have a shield? Hand-to-hand combat would be so dangerous.

“Come here, Theseus. There’s no point in running.” He said darkly, as his trident returned to him like it had some mind of its own.

Tommy pulled out his batons, ready for a fight. The Warden lunged at him, not wasting any more time, swinging his trident as Tommy flew up into the sky, landing behind him before Tommy lunged at him, slamming his batons into his neck, kicking out the feet from underneath him. As the Warden fell to the ground, he swung his trident at him and managed to pull out a few feathers from one of his wings as Tommy pulled out a dagger, slamming the Wardens head into the ground and pressing his dagger on the side of his neck.

That was... easy. Maybe too easy.

His trident skittered across the ground as Tommy put all of his weight into holding him down, leaning down closer to him.

“I will kill you if I have to.” Tommy threatened, pressing the dagger's blade on his neck. The warden just scoffed.

It was a trap.

“Sorry, kid, but I’m not dying today.” After his words a blast sent him flying off of him, his dagger flying out of his hands. Tommy spun around in the air, his wings going every which direction, red and white feathers shooting everywhere. He hit the ground hard, his ears ringing and his head was all fuzzy as he hung onto consciousness.

He would not fall here.

Numbly, he rolled onto his side. He couldn't tell if he was in pain; but he assumed it was bad enough that he felt numb, disconnected from his body. His mind was reeling and he was having trouble seeing straight, everything was doubled and blurry: how was he even awake right now?

A cold hand grabbed his neck and he screamed out but it was silent- so deathly quiet.

“I-I'm sorry!” He blurted out, but his words were muffled to him, cotton filled his ears. His voice was probably cracking.

“Sorry won't do—“(Dream- you don't need to kill me again- I promise I will be good! You want me to be your pet? Okay. I give in- just no more killing me. Please.)Tommy wasn't sure what he said but it must have been bad enough that Dream let him go. Tommy scrambled away from him, coughing violently- before he froze, looking back at the man in front of him who wasn't Dream.

“I- you-“ Tommy sounded so young as he continued pushing himself away from the Warden, his wings limply dragging behind him, a trail of blood and feathers left in his wake.

“Hey- what are you talking about?” The Warden asked with all the kindness in the world that Tommy despised. Tommy wanted to throw up- and he did, throwing up blood on the pavement, the blood leaving behind a metallic taste in his mouth.

“I-I, your- your—“ Tommy stuttered out, flinching back as he stepped towards him, desperate to be left alone.

“Let me help you, Theseus.” The Warden said, holding out a hand to him, the way Dream had done so many times after beating the shit out of him. The similarities were uncanny.

“Dream- I- I’m sorry.” Tommy stuttered out, his mind going back and forth as reality seemed to twist and morph back and forth.

“You need medical attention- your wings could be saved. Come on, please.” The Warden took another step towards him and Tommy shot up, almost falling over from the dead weight on his back. He hadn’t even looked at them yet.

“No! No one is touching them.” Tommy hissed out, producing a dagger from out of nowhere, ready to fucking stab the shit out of anyone who comes near.

He was spiraling, he wasn't doing so good in this moment- that blast had really fucked him up. Not only in the head but also his whole body.

“Not again- ever. Eret- you-you are sick and cruel. I'm not some animal for you to tell what to do all the time. I'm a person-“ Tommy choked up as he shook his head, reciting the words he said over and over in his head every day.

Why was he even saying these things right now? Was he dying--

“Kid- please. I'm not Eret or Dream, I’m the Warden.” He said but Tommy only saw Eret standing in front of him, with their black sunglasses and their red cloak draped over their shoulders.

“I'll have to punish you dearly for this, my little birdy.” Eret whispered in his ear.

“No— Eret, please—“ Tommy choked out.

”Your wings would look so nice mounted on my wall.” Their voice cackled as Tommy whipped around with his dagger, crying out, desperately trying to find where they were.

Eret was not there- he never had been, he probably looked fucking crazy. Tommy was panting, his heart racing, he needed to run, hide, get as far away as possible.

“— Theseus!” The Warden's voice brought him back as he whipped around, his dagger gripped tightly in his hand.

“Focus on me, focus on this moment. No one else is here.” Tommy stared at him with a blank stare, hardly registering anything he said, before darting off down the streets, running as fast as his shaking legs could carry him. He was crying, he thinks, from the sudden fog over his eyes again. He was very injured but somehow he was still going.

He just ran and ran until his burning muscles finally gave out on him, as he tumbled onto the pavement below him. Blood splattered all around him from the impact, probably from his wings, he wasn't sure. He didn't really know how badly he was hurt, or what was hurt, he just felt a dull ache everywhere.

He wound up in some rich neighborhood, he realized as he looked around, and picked a house that looked empty enough. He forced himself to get back up, using his shaky arms to heave himself up before he limped through the yard to a house. He numbly broke one of the glass doors with a large rock, entering the house and somehow avoiding stepping on the big glass shards.

He would only get some food and water, maybe look for money or bandages then get as far away as possible before whoever owned this house came back, assuming no one was in it right now.

The house was very dark on the inside, with a large living room, huge tv, a very fancy-looking kitchen, and hallways leading off places. Tommy was surprised there was no alarms going off, for a place as expensive as it was.

Eh. Who cares if there were, he would just knock out whoever lived here- or try his best. Maybe they would be terrified of the bloody person who had just broken in.

He shakily moved to the kitchen, with a terrible limp, taking off his mask and shakily setting it down on the counter, dripping blood onto the marble. His hands were covered in drying blood and dirt, his gloves that used to protect his skin falling apart and filled with holes, exposing his skin underneath.

He reached out with a shaky hand and turned on the facet, running both his hands under it. The cold water cleared some of the fog in his head, slowly bringing him back to reality as the adrenaline began to wear off. Exhaustion set deep into his bones and muscles, as he cupped the water and splashed it onto his face.

Blood and sweat rinsed off of his face as he sighed, dowsing his face in more water until his hair was dripping wet and all the blood coating his face was gone.

His whole body was shaking with the effort of keeping himself up. He leaned heavily against the counter as he just listened to the water running, trying to calm himself down. After a while, he grabbed a cup off to the side and filled it up before downing the whole glass in one go. The water soothed his dry throat and rinsed out the taste of blood in his mouth.

After another cup full he rested his head on the cool counter. His head was pounding and he was practically radiating heat.

He was okay.

“Who the fuck are you?” Came a deep voice as the lights turned on suddenly. Tommy didn’t even bother to lookup. He was so tired and exhausted- he just wanted some peace.

“Please, I-I just need some food and money, then I’ll be gone.” He mumbled into the counter. Damn. Why did someone have to be in this house at such a late hour at night? Like, didn't they have somewhere to be?

“Like that’s going to happen. Do you even realize whose house this is?” The voice huffed, and suddenly there was a blade pressed against his neck. Now, this got his attention. Tommy slowly lifted his head, shaking with the effort, leaving behind blood and sweat on the counter. Standing on the other side of the counter was a pink-haired man, with red eyes, and wearing only shorts, showing off his abs and muscles.

But Tommy recognized him after a long moment of staring- not at his abs- at his ugly face with all those scars on it.

“T-Tj? Is that you?” He breathed out, stunned. What a guy. Who knew he had a sword.

“Tj? Who the— oh." Tj's face dropped, "Oh.” It seems Tj has realized who he was now to.

“Wait- Tommy? Is that you?” Tj moved his sword away from his neck, but he kept it in his hand still on edge. Tommy could tell he wasn't going to be awake much longer, as black dots began to fill his vision. He didn't even fully understand the complications this would cause.

“Guilty as charged.” Tommy offered a weak smile before his knee gave out and he was falling forwards, his head spinning, and his limp wings pulling him down further. Tj reacted quickly- grabbing him before he could slam down into the ground.

He wasn't doing so good, was he? He had been able to make it this long, but as he tried to push Tj away from himself his limbs just seemed to stop working. He couldn't hold up any of his weight anymore.

“Tommy- oh my god. Oh my god.” It must be bad then- really bad, to have such a reaction from such a monotone guy.

“Your- your Theseus?” He asked and Tommy grunted as Tj sat him down on the ground on his stomach, very gently. Tommy was practically screaming at such positive contact- Tj was so gentle with all of his movements, as he stayed far away from touching any of his open wounds.

“Tommy- what happened to you?” Tj whispered, his voice wavering, but Tommy could barely pay attention to it as he closed his eyes. The numbness was finally fading away and with it came a roaring pain from his whole body- the pain was consuming himself, taking up every inch of his mind. His breathing became more rapid as he tried to cope with it all but it was all too much-

“I- explosion.” Tommy gritted out as he gasped, he didn't even risk moving, to scared of what pain that might cause.

“P-please- no one can know-“ Tommy choked out, no one could know he was Theseus. Expect Tj, who already knew, but no new could know.

“Oh my god, Tommy. This- this is bad.”

“Stop. Just stop.” Tommy weakly said, his mind was slipping- he didn't need to be told how bad it was.

"I need to get you to a hospital-"

“I- I will heal. Don't- don't call them.” He said weakly as a violent coughing fit wracked his body, more black spots filling his vision. Tj was saying something but Tommy could hardly hear it as he gave into the relief the darkness gave him. It was calling to him, to plunge down into its deaths. It would save him from the pain.

“Jeez! How does this even happen— “ Tommy flittered back awake, his eyes blearily opening. His mind jolted back to wakefulness, making sure he was safe. He was on his stomach, on something soft. Tj was rambling on as Tommy closed his eyes again. He was safe. Hopefully. He fell back into the welcoming darkness.

Chapter Text

The next time he woke up he was in the same position, but he could see his wings splayed out to the side of him, resting peacefully. He closed his eyes again, focusing on his breathing before he opened them. His memories came flooding back to him suddenly- where was he? In Tj's house- oh fuck. He was only supposed to get some water and food and leave-

He sat up quickly, black dots filling his vision as he scanned the room he was in before he fell back down onto the cushions beneath him. He groaned as a headache began, sitting up much slower this time.

He looked at his wings- taken aback for a second. He knew he had avoided even looking at his wings, terrified of how bad in a condition they were in, but he was certain they would never be this well taken care of after what happened.

They were fine. Good as new. Even preened- wait a second.

Who did that?

Tommy searched the darkroom he was in, his heartbeat quickening as he started to freak out a little. Who touched his wings? No one was allowed to- unless it was Eret. He really couldn't stand up to Eret.

His eyes landed on a man reading a book, his long pink hair tied up in a bun and glasses sitting on his face. He was wearing a shirt this time, thankfully, Tommy didn't think he could handle the paleness of the man's chest.

“What- what did you do?” Tommy asked as he went to stand up, but he ended up falling to the floor instead. Tj sat his book down as he stood up, taking off his glasses and setting them on the chair.

“Tommy- take it easy, please. You’ll just hurt yourself-“ Tommy didn't know what came over him as he lunged at him, aiming for his neck. Maybe it was because he had messed with his wings, or he was in an unfamiliar space.

But Tj easily grabbed him and held him up and away from him as he viscously flapped his wings, trying to claw at the man.

“What did you do?” Tommy basically screamed as he tried to claw Tjs arm up but his grip wouldn’t budge no matter how hard he gauged into his skin.

“I got rid of all the blood on you, changed out your bloody nasty suit, and helped set your wings so they would heal faster. I also smoothed them for you, your welcome.” Tj said in his monotone voice, staring at him with his emotionless red eyes. Tommy fell deathly still as he stared at Tj, before his eyes started to get watery and he looked away.

“Let- let me go!” He said, and Tj gently sat him down. Tommy's mind was a roller coaster of emotions right now.

“You- I-“Tommy's mind was spiraling again. Too many things- to many similarities-

“Yes?” Tj asked. Tommy gulped as he looked at Tj. No one would just do that without expecting something in return, Dream had saved him similarly to Tj and look where he ended up-

“I- can I talk freely?” He had to make sure he wouldn’t get punished. Maybe it was out of habit, or out of fear, but this man was someone he couldn’t beat like this. Tj watched him with his deep red eyes for a long time, making Tommy freeze up even more as he stared at his hands, his wings twitching ever so slightly.

“Why- why wouldn’t you be able to?” Tj asked confused, shifting uncomfortably on his feet as he stared down at Tommy. His mind must be trying to piece together the puzzle before him.

“Tj-“ Tommy began, ”Techno. Call me Techno. Tj was just a stupid cover-up name.” Tj- Techno interrupted him. Tommy paused as he looked at the man, had his whole life been a lie? Techno was a much cooler name he had to admit-

“Okay, Techno- you, I- uh, I just needed to make sure.” Tommy stuttered out. He felt like he had to answer him, just like Dream.

“Make sure..?” Techno raised an eyebrow, as he kneeled down beside Tommy, keeping his movements slow and predictable. Tommy was waiting, watching for when Techno would drop his kind facade and hurt him.

“Tommy, what happened to you?” Techno was staring him straight in the eyes, as if he was peering into his soul, and Tommy never wanted to cry more than in that moment.

“It- it was nothing.” Tommy shook his head, wrapping his wings around himself, trying to keep the stutter out of his voice.

“That’s bull shit,” Techno said.

“No it's not!” Tommy said defensively, crossing his arms.

“Clearly many things have happened to you. I'm not stupid." Techno kept his voice even and calm, even as he argued with Tommy.

”Yes you are!” Tommy stuck out his tongue at him, getting more heated up.

“Oh you little-“ there was a click at the door and Technos face dropped.

“I forget to mention, I called Wilbur and Phil about you.” Tommys face dropped, as his wings quickly retreated into his back and he grabbed a blanket, hiding himself.

“You mother fucker- you told them about me?” Tommy hissed from where he hid, curling in tighter to himself. He was not ready to see Wilbur-

“I only told them I found you, not Theseus. Your secret is safe with me.” Techno whispered back as he stood up.

Tommy took a deep breath in before keeping quiet- his hiding was spot was shit but maybe he could spare himself a couple more seconds to think.

“Techno- Techno! Where is he? If this is some sick fucking joke I will kill you.” That was Wilburs voice. Wilbur. Wilbur was here- wait, why was Wilbur here? He sounded exactly how he sounded when he last saw him… he wasn't sure how long ago.

Tommy's breathing picked up as he tried to be quiet but this was all too much. He should have left the moment he woke up and never been put into this situation-

“He’s hiding, Wil. Be gentle… he’s a little frazzled.” Techno said lowly, but Wilbur didn’t seem to listen as he jumped over the couch and onto the ground beside Tommy who was trying his hardest to keep it together.

“Tommy? Tommy? It's me- Wilbur. Can I see you?” Wilbur asked, his voice was full of emotions, practically swimming in them. Tommy had always imagined them meeting again atop the rooftops. He doesn't know why, but that was just how he pictured it.

Tommy mumbled a no, he did want Wilbur to see him like this, even though he desperately wanted nothing more than to see Wilbur.

“What?” Wilbur asked, he could tell he was getting impatient.

“Fuck it-“ Wilbur said and lifted the blanket off of him. Tommy blinked up at Wilbur, his eyes wide. He didn’t look very different, with his brown fluffy hair, a streak of white in it which was new to him, a beanie on, and a trench cloak he always seemed to wear.

“Tommy!” Wilbur cried out as he practically lunged at him with open arms, pulling him into a hug so tight he felt his back crack. Tommy was shocked at first before he melted into the warm touch. He had missed Wilbur so, so much, and was on the verge of tears as he slowly slunk his arms around Wilbur.

He wasn’t sure what he was allowed to do, but this seemed fine, Wilbur just hugged him for a long time, saying things he didn't really pay attention to. He didn't need to; he had Wilbur back and that was all that mattered.

“Phil, I woke up to the alarm going off and came downstairs, ready for a full-on attack, but instead I found him going through our stuff like a raccoon before he passed out.” Techno said to someone named Phil. Tommy tuned into their conversation.

“It was pretty bad- he passed out and I cleaned him up. He’s… a little rattled right now.”

“Jesus, you didn’t think of calling an ambulance?”

“No- I mean yes but he said not to, so I didn't.” Techno shrugged.

“Theseus was spotted tonight.”

“Oh?”

“I was looking for him before…”

Tommy brought his attention back to Wilbur as he pulled away from the hug, both his hands on his shoulders as he stared at him, his smile slowly fading as he stared at him.

“Tommy… why are there so many white streaks in your hair?” Wilbur asked suddenly, his voice sounding heartbroken. That seemed to grab the attention of Techno and Phil. Tommy blinked for a second before looking away.

“Uh- a dye job? I wanted highlights but the stylist—“ Tommy tried to make an excuse up, which was a pretty good excuse if you asked him, but Wilbur didn't seem to believe him.

”Tommy.” Wilbur stopped him, and Tommy thought for a second Wilbur would hit him- or do anything really. But he just stared at him with his sad amber eyes.

“That’s the sign of the dead.” Said Phil as he came into view. Tommy flinched backward, his back hitting the couch behind him as his eyes shot to Phil- or rather, the Angel. The Angel was in this house, the Angel- in all his glory, was here!(Why the fuck was a superhero here?)

“T-The Angel? What are you doing here!” Tommy gaped at him- the Angel had his mask off too- kind blue eyes staring back at him. He felt like he shouldn’t be looking but he was the Angel! How could he not look?

“Just call me Phil mate, and I’m Wils and Technos dad.” The Angel- or, Phil said. He can't believe he was on first-name basis with the Angel!

“I- wow, this is a lot, are- are you sure I can call you that, oh mighty Angel?” Tommy asked and Phil laughed before his face turned back to one of horror as everyone stared at Tommy.

“Tommy?” Wilbur asked, slowly reaching out a hand to him and he flinched back, expecting to be hit- wait, he cant flinch. Dream hated that-

“Sorry-“

”Why do you have so many signs?” Wilbur’s eyes were watching him, concern deep in them. Tommy gulped as his eyes filtered between everyone here. Techno was very quiet, almost too quiet as he stared at Tommy, Phil looked like he was about to commit mass murder, and Wilbur had that protective look in his eyes. Could Tommy tell them?

They kind of already knew.

“I… yeah- yeah,” Tommy said instead, just nodding his head with a shrug. He was bad at these things.

“I… rather not think about it. But yeah- it happened. It's over now.” Tommy looked away, trying to shake the thoughts off. He was never really haunted by any of his deaths besides the first two. Those were the only ones he really remembered anyways.

“Who did this?” Wilbur asked as he shot up suddenly, starting to pace around. Tommy pulled his blanket closer to himself as he watched them all. He shouldn’t be on the ground, he should be standing up, in view of an exit at all times, ready to bolt.

Wilbur was making him nervous, and Techno's cold red eyes didn't help, not to mention Phil just standing there like a wax statue, his face void of any emotion now.

But he just… couldn’t bring himself to care. He was so tired of living on edge every moment of his life. Maybe he could trust them, just a little bit? Techno had been nothing but kind, helping him heal faster, and Wilbur had been Wilbur.

He needed an answer, he knew that, saying nothing would just prolong this tense moment.

They knew Theseus was out, The Warden probably already told them what he said. Maybe he could go off of that. He remembered saying he escaped, and that was pretty much it before it gets all blurry.

“You know Theseus?” Tommy asked, and they all froze. Tommy felt like he did something wrong as all of their faces hardened, except Technos.

“Theseus did this to you?” Phil took a step towards him, an angry and betrayed look in his eyes, his fists clenched. Tommy's eyes widened in panic.

“No- no! Of course not!” Tommy said flustered.

“Theseus saved me. He got me out.” Tommy said slowly, trying to put together the best story he could.

“Theseus… he was taken around the same time I was.” Tommy began, trying to keep everything as truthful as possible, it would be easier to remember.

“We weren’t friends per se. No one was allowed friends. We had a silent pact between each other, that we both would get out. And then Theseus saw an opening, and he took me with him.” Tommy looked down at his hands. It wasn't really a lie. Theseus did get him out, truthfully.

“But- we got separated. Theseus told me to go find someplace safe and… I don't know what happened to him.” Tommy looked back up at them, Phil had a terrified look on his face. Wilbur had stopped pacing and was staring intently at him, soaking in every word he said.

“Tommy—“

”Phil, I don't think he needs that right now.” Wilbur shot Phil a glare.

“Need what?” Tommy asked innocently.

Phil opened his mouth to speak but Wilbur beat him to it, “Phil- no!” Wilbur snapped, and Phil shot Wilbur a glare, his wings bristling.

“You said you were… taken?” Techno spoke for the first time in a while. Tommy looked at him, mildly surprised.

“Uh- yeah. More or so like kidnapped and murdered.” Tommy shrugged, and Wilbur stared at him with horror.

“What?” Wilbur said shocked. Tommy couldn't handle this right now- he was so close to breaking down it wasn't funny. Everything was so overwhelming and just too much.

“I- can we not talk about this? Please?” Tommy felt so small and fragile as he said that, his voice cracking at the end of it. Phil let out a chirp and Tommy had to stop from chirping back- damn. Damn. He hadn’t had a nest or a flock in a long time.

They weren’t his flock.

“Of course, mate,” Phil said, Tommy could tell Phil was itching to pull him into a hug. Maybe Tommy needed a hug, but right now he felt overwhelmed. Wilbur was making him nervous, and Techno was so quiet he couldn't tell what was going on there.

“It's three in the morning, how about we all try and get some sleep? We can talk more in the morning.” Phil suggested like the responsible adult he was.

“What if they come looking for Tommy?” Wilbur said as he tapped his finger against his leg, thinking.

“All three of us will be here, Wil. I think we’d be alright.”Tommy was already dozing off again, his eyes feeling heavy as he listened to them argue in the background. Sleep was calling him and he desperately needed it. He kept himself awake for as long as he could, but the exhaustion finally caught up with him and pulled him back into its dark embrace.

—————————————————

Wilbur stopped his arguing with Phil when he noticed Tommy was asleep, his breathing evening out, and his head slumped against the couch. Wilbur sighed, dragging a hand down his face.

When Techno had called him saying he found Tommy, he didn't believe him at first. But Techno wouldn’t lie about something that meant as much as it did to Wilbur.

Phil had been patrolling when he got the call. Actually before the call, Wilbur was getting ready to help Phil search for Theseus. Sam had encountered him and severely injured Theseus, but he somehow slipped away.

Sam was very frantic about it all, and more heros came out to look for Theseus, saying his wings were barely hanging on by a thread and that he had lost a lot of blood. But, Wilbur had abandoned that and so did Phil for the time being.

“I'm going out to search for Theseus,” Phil said as he put his mask back on.

“Okay. I'm staying here.” Wilbur looked back at Tommy, just to make sure he was still there. You could never be so careful.

“Figured.” Phil smiled at him as he walked to the door.

“Call me when he wakes,” Phil said, his eyes lingering on Techno for a couple of moments.

“Techno? Are you okay?” Phil asked. Techno closed his eyes before looking at Phil.

“Yeah. I'm fine.” Techno nodded, a silent conversation going on between the two before Phil put his mask on and left with a wave. Wilbur stared at Techno before moving to Tommy's side.

“Let’s move him to the guest room- or maybe even downstairs? It’d be safer there.”

“But what if he wakes up and tries to leave but he’s trapped?” Techno said, he must have already been thinking about all of this.

“Techno, you think after over a year that I’d leave his side?” Wilbur laughed, before quieting down.

“I know I won't get any sleep tonight, so I’ll stay and watch over him.” Wilbur carefully picked Tommy up as gently as he could, easily lifting him up. He weighed almost nothing, which was very concerning. Wilbur would make sure he was given plenty of food.

“Alright.” Techno nodded before walking down the hall and unlocking the basement door, walking down the steps. The basement was like a secret lair of sorts, it was a safe bunker they had for emergencies. This was an emergency.

Techno opened the vault door- it was a massive door that used a handprint and a code to open. Inside was a lounge-like room with a tv, and a hallway that lead to other rooms. Wilbur made his way to one of the rooms, the lights switching on as he entered it.

It was a nice room, with blue walls, a big bed, a chair, and a desk. His room down here, but he barely slept in it.

“Techno, when you leave make sure to lock the door, yeah?” Wilbur said as he sat Tommy down, pulling the covers back before sliding him into the bed and tucking him in. He looked so… young, and small. Too small, he was practically skin and bones.

“I’ll lock it, but I’m staying down here,” Techno said from the doorway. Wilbur looked back at him before smiling.

“Stop-“

”I thought you didn't like him?” Wilbur teased.

“I don't- I'm just worried about the kid.”

“Sure.” Wilbur turned back to Tommy, moving the hair out of his face, looking at all the faded scars on his face, until his eyes were drawn to one particularly bad one on his neck. Wilbur titled his head gently to look at it better, before his stomach dropped. The scar was a smiley face, clearly burnt into his skin.

Wilbur gasped out loud, before slapping a hand over his mouth. He felt sick.

“I locked it—“ Techno said as he came back, before he froze as he took in Wilbur's shocked form.

“Wil?” Techno asked as he walked into the room, staring at him. Wilbur was deathly pale and his hands were shaking as he pointed at Tommy’s neck. Techno raised an eyebrow before looking himself.

“He was… branded.” Techno sounded sick as he pulled away, his hands clenching into fists at his sides.

“Techno- what the fuck happened to him?” Wilbur breathed out, his eyes staring at Tommy who was sleeping so peacefully, for who knows for the first time in how long.

“The Hunters.” Techno spat.

“The- who?” Wilbur looked at Techno.

“Let’s let him sleep. He needs it.” Techno looked at Tommy, his eyes lingering on him, before he left to leave the room. Wilbur stared at Tommy, making sure he was still there, before following Techno out, turning off the light and closing the door halfway.

Techno was standing in the living area, tapping his foot as he thought, staring off at nothing.

“The hunters are an underground business run by Eret. They currently have started making a more public image of themselves. In some of the photos and videos, Theseus has been in them.”

“Wasn’t Theseus like their pet?” Wilbur asked and Techno nodded. Bile rose in his throat at the thought of being someone's pet and treated like an animal.

“Eret is a cruel man. Anyways, the Hunters are a group of highly trained assassins, they must have taken Tommy, and uh Theseus to train them. That’s all we really know.” Techno looked at the wall.

“But now we have Tommy back— he can tell us everything he knows! We can take them down once and for all!” Wilbur started pacing, his mind starting to make all these plans on how to get revenge and turn them in.

“We’ll make them all pay for what they did to Tommy,” Wilbur said darkly. He was ready to get revenge for Tommy, his Tommy.

"Your forgetting Puffy has a contract with them." Techno reminded him and Wilbur wanted to pull his hair out. He forget about that damned contract-

“What about Theseus?” Techno asked.

“Theseus… he could have been using Tommy or some other sick thing. Tommy didn't seem very sure of his story, I think Theseus isn’t the good guy we all believe him to be.” Wilbur explained. He picked up on those things fairly easily.

“I think Theseus is good,” Techno said suddenly. Wilbur shot him a disbelieving look.

“Techno, I could tell something was off there- everything is off with him!” Wilbur raised his voice, he doesn't mean to but damn can Techno just be so stupid-

“Somethings going on in his head- an outside force influencing him. I can feel it.” Wilbur looked back at his room where Tommy was sleeping, irritated, as he lowered his voice.

“Whatever happened to him I’ll figure it out. I don’t care how long it takes.” Wilbur gritted his teeth. He wasn’t letting Tommy disappear again. Ever.

Techno said nothing as he just stared at Wilbur, seemingly lost for words.

“Techno, what happened when you first found him?” Wilbur asked as he turned his focus on Techno now.

“Oh- uh, he broke the window with a rock, drank some water before collapsing. He left a trail of blood on the ground and everything- it was bad. Real bad.” Techno seemed uncertain about something, as his eyes darted to Tommy's room and back at Wilbur, like he was hiding something.

“He’s hurt?” Wilbur decided to ignore it for now, and instead focus on Tommy.

“Well- he was? I don't really know. There was a lot of blood, I’m not sure if it was his or not- but he was a little ruffed up.” Techno said, his voice in that same monotone tone as it always was.

“Techno… I counted at least fifteen death signs-I'm sure there's more.” Wilbur said suddenly. Death signs or signs of the dead were what appeared in your hair after you died, a white streak, representing the resurrection of the person. Wilbur had one. He died in a terrible accident shortly after Tommy had disappeared. Phil brought him back.

“I know,” Techno said quietly.

“Techno, how can one person die so much and still be here?” Now, Wilbur was not an expert on death, but he would have thought there would be a limit to how many times you could die and come back. Unless Lady Death had her eyes on him.

How was Tommy still pieced together? Wilbur had a hard time coming back from one death- but fifteen times? Wouldn't that break someone beyond repair?

Wilbur saw nothing too concerning- at least not yet. Other than his skittishness and mistrust, but that was to be expected from whatever happened to him.

“I.. don't know, Wil. Phil would know more than any of us.”

”What are we going to do?” Wilbur sighed, worriedly looking back at his room.

“Give him time. Whatever he went through must have been very traumatic.” Techno stated the obvious. Of course he would give him time and space!

“No, Techno… we don't have a room for him yet. Or clothes. We’ll have to go shopping tomorrow and get him everything he needs- anything he wants too.” Wilbur checked the time on his watch. It was four in the morning.

“Don't get ahead of yourself there, Wilbur. We aren’t making any decisions without Tommy's consent—“

”Geez Techno,“ Wilbur yawned, but he wasn't very tired. There was no way he was getting any sleep tonight.

“I'm staying with him.” Wilbur walked to his room, glancing at Techno.

“Maybe I should—“ Techno called after him. Wilbur paused and looked at him.

“Aw, Techno, do you care about him?” Wilbur teased, but he couldn't help a fond smile on his lips. Techno scowled before looking away.

“No, I’m just worried he might try and attack you like he did when he first woke up,” Techno said so causally like it was not a big deal. That was a big fucking deal.

”Tommy attacked you?” Wilbur asked shocked, concern lacing his voice.

“Yeah, he was freaked out.” Techno shrugged.

“If it would make you feel better to be in here then so be it.” Wilbur shrugged as he stepped into Tommy's room, his eyes darting to his sleeping form on the bed. He wasn't afraid of Tommy attacking him.

He settled into the chair and Techno sat on the ground, closer to the bed. Wilbur wrote everything down on his phone that he knew of:
-Tommy was kidnapped and killed around the same time as Theseus was (supposedly)
-Tommy and Theseus escaped together
-Theseus seems a little suspicious
-Theseus and the Warden got into a fight the same night(leaving Theseus severely wounded and most likely grounded)
-Tommy has a smile scar on his neck
-Tommy had been killed at least fifteen times over

He decided he would write down anything he deemed important. As the night continued on Wilbur noticed Tommy was very restless in his sleep, he would even mumble things Wilbur would strain to hear, but most of it was nothing he could make out.

It wasn’t until almost six that he woke up panting, a hand on his head as he stared around at everything and nothing at the same time, his blue eyes wide with fear.

“E-Eret?” Tommy shakily asked. Techno stood up now, slowly moving to his bed.

“Tommy- it's me, Techno, and Wilbur,” Techno said slowly, like he was some scared animal.

“Eret- no, I would never want that.” His voice sounded so… submissive, broken.

“Anything for you, Eret.” Tommy was staring at someone that wasn't there, Wilbur realized. Was this Eret the one messing with his head?

“I-“Tommy's voice caught in his throat.

“Haven’t you taken enough already?” He asked lowly, his voice shaking. Techno was frozen as he stared at Tommy's glazed-over eyes, uncertain of what to do.

“Yeah… yeah. I won't.” Tommy flinched back, wrapping his arms around himself. Wilbur was up now, anger coursing through him. Whoever this Eret was was going to fucking pay for what he did.

“Tommy-“ Techno rested his hand on his shoulder, and Tommy froze, blinking his eyes a couple of times before he finally saw Techno.

“Don’t touch me!” Tommy shrieked, kicking Technos arm away from him as he launched himself off the side of the bed. Wilbur hit the lights now, watching Tommy carefully.

Tommy was panting from where he was on the ground, his fists out in front of him ready to defend himself, and his big blue eyes blown wide.

“I- I'm sorry,” Tommy said quietly from where he was on the ground, as he lowered his fists, hanging his head. His body was slightly shaking, but not from the cold.

“Please- Techno, I-“ Tommy cut himself off, his eyes looked conflicted as he stared at Techno, his hands trembling.

“It's okay Tommy. You didn't even hurt me.” Techno said as he kneeled in front of Tommy, a small smile on his lips.

“Your safe here. No one will hurt you ever again.” Techno said slowly. Tommy stared at Techno for a long time, perhaps trying to figure out if Techno was lying or not.

“How do I know that?” Tommy asked quietly, and that made Wilbur break.

“Tommy- I promise you no one will get to you, not if I have anything to say about it.” Wilbur stepped towards him, a fire burning deep in his eyes. He would give the world for Tommy.

“We’ll find the people responsible for this and put an end to them,” Wilbur promised, staring down at Tommy.

“I won't stop until all of them are gone.” Techno shot him a look before turning back to Tommy, whose eyes were getting all red and puffy.

“They’ll find me. They always find you.” A tear fell down his face before he whipped it away quickly, turning his head away.

“You can’t stop them. No one can.” He whispered, his voice sounded so broken and hopeless.

“Tommy-“

“I'm as good as dead.” Tommy laughed a dry, bitter laugh.

“Maybe they’ll actually keep me dead this time.” Tommy shivered, but he didn't seem to opposed to it. The kid had been in and out of death's door so many times.

Wilbur stared at Tommy who had been all laughs and jokes at one point in his life, not a care in the world before this happened to him. It made Wilbur furious. It made Wilbur want to kill.

“Tommy, do you know who we are?” Techno asked, and Wilbur’s face paled, but Techno went on before he could stop him.

“I’m the Blade, and this fool over there is Specter. We’re all hero’s.” Techno said, pointing at Wilbur.

“Techno! You just- no one is supposed to know our secret identities!” Wilbur hit Techno on his shoulder as Techno shrugged.

“He already knows Phil is the Angel, I’m sure he would have put two and two together anyway.” Techno reasoned. Wilbur wanted to facepalm.

“Oh my god you are so stupid- Tommy, please excuse the dumb pig over here,” Wilbur said as he sat down in front of Tommy, who was watching them with an amused smile on his face. It warmed his heart ever so slightly.

“Alright, Tommy, you have three hero’s here to protect you, and the rest of the hero’s as well. No one is getting to you.” Wilbur smiled at him. Tommy suddenly lunged at Wilbur, hugging him tightly, as Wilburs smile deepened as he hugged him back.

“The Blade is cooler than Specter.” Tommy winked at Techno, as he hugged him tighter, burying his face in his clothing.

“It’s official, The Blade is better than Specter.” Techno smiled.

“What- hey! Traitor!” Wilbur said as he looked at Tommy who was laughing, for the first time in who knows how long.

“Specter is very cool- cooler than the Angel and the Blade combined. I mean, super strength and invincibility? Isn't that too over-powered?” Wilbur looked at Techno, shaking his head.

“At least I'm not a ghost.” Techno shrugged and Wilbur kicked him, but he only ended up stubbing his toe.

“Fuck- damnit! Fuck you and your hard shins!” Wilbur spat playfully and Tommy burst out laughing in his arms.

“Anyways, who's hungry? I told Phil to make us breakfast.”

Chapter Text

Tommy stared at the eggs in front of him, with his hands in his lap. He did not have permission to eat, and he was determined to not get into trouble here. Phil was cooking in the kitchen, the tarp over the door he broke flapping occasionally as the sun was starting to rise. Wilbur and Techno were eating their food, Wilbur had devoured his eggs while Techno ate more like a civilized person.

Tommy was still a little shaken up from last night. He woke up expecting to be met with Eret like he usually always was, or Dream, but instead it was Techno and Wilbur. That had freaked him out- and to be sleeping in a new unfamiliar place.

Tommy was staring at Techno, trying to not make it obvious. All he needed was a nod or verbal permission. He was hungry. So hungry- his stomach was growling at him to just eat it, but every instinct told him to wait.

Techno finally looked at him with his deep sanguine eyes, then at his place then back at him.

“What are you waiting for?” Techno asked in his monotone voice, quirking an eyebrow at him as he tried to figure out why he wasn't eating.

“It's not poisoned if that’s what your thinking.” Wilbur chimed in, as he took another bite of his eggs.

“No- I, uh-“ Tommy stuttered. Man, this was embarrassing as fuck. But he was also confused. Very confused. In his head he saw Techno as his new trainer. He knew it was bad he did, but maybe it was a way to cope? He had been doing what other people wanted for as long as he could remember. He didn't know what choices to make or what was good for him.

But the thing was, Techno acted nothing like them- he didn't seem to give two fucks what he did. He didn't ask anything from him- not yet at least. He kept his secret. Techno… didn't seem to understand, and of course he wouldn’t, he had no idea what had happened to him, but he could piece together what he wants from him?

Maybe?

“Spit it out,” Techno said, and Tommy straightened up. Finally- a command! (Why was he so excited about a command?)

“I-I can eat?” Tommy asked him, and Techno gave him the stupidest look he’s ever seen.

“Of course not.” Techno deadpanned, and Tommy's face fell.

“I'm just kidding- geez, kid, you don’t need my permission to eat. Please, eat everything you want.” Techno said, a worried look in his eyes as Tommy nodded and started eating.

“Tommy… why would you need permission to eat?” Wilbur asked, and Tommy knew exactly what he was doing. He wanted Tommy to talk more about what had happened, and by asking stupid questions he would get there.

There really was no reason to not tell them what happened. But why was it so hard to talk about it? Maybe he just didn't want their pity, or for them to hate the people that did this.

“Assets aren’t allowed to eat unless given permission.” Tommy recited how he had a thousand times over, shivering slightly at the memory. It took him a while to remember that rule, he could recall Dream starving him for days after he would eat something he didn't ask permission for.

Phil sat down at the table now, besides Tommy. Tommy looked at him before back at Wilbur's scrunched up face.

“Do you… wanna talk about it?” Wilbur asked softly.

“Not really,” Tommy mumbled as he ate his eggs, savoring the taste. He hadn’t had something this nice in forever. Bread and vegetables were what he usually got.

“Tommy, can you tell me more about what happened the night you got kidnapped?” Phil asked tentatively, clearly they all wanted to know what happened.

“Any information can help us piece together what happened and who was responsible.”

Tommy didn't really remember what happened that night. It was all fuzzy, just like most of his other memories. But they were coming back… slowly.

“I… don't know. I think I bled out from a chest wound, but Dream took me and saved me. He was there when I woke up and answered all my questions and he was rather nice but also a little freaky with his mask. Dream's not a bad guy.” Tommy said, rambling a little bit, but he wanted them to know Dream wasn’t bad. He was just... misunderstood, but that sounded kind of stupid.

“Can you tell me about Dream?” Phil asked and Tommy brightened at that, he loved talking about Dream!

“Dream was the best- he was like a brother to me. Or a father figure. Anyways, he trained me and taught me all the rules and everything- we even came up with little codes! I would go on so many missions with him and his team- we worked so well together. I'm pretty sure Dream had a crush on one of them- but we didn't say anything and just waited for something to happen. I was his second apprentice to last as long as I have: and I’m pretty sure I was his favorite.” Tommy paused, his smile fading from his lips as his thoughts darkened.

“But, Dream was not a man to be crossed. He would punish me for breaking the rules, and when I really fucked up he would- he would-“ Tommy found himself struggling to say it, he wasn't really sure why. It happened, it was one of the punishments.

He would kill him and bring him back.

“It doesn’t matter-“ He decided on, not willing to elaborate on it.

“No, it does.” Wilbur cut him off, and Tommy internally cursed him.

“What did he do?” Wilbur asked, his voice so soft it almost sounded like a whisper.

“He would… kill me? And bring me back?” Tommy wasn’t sure why it sounded like a question when he said it aloud.

“He- what now?” Wilbur practically shouted, jumping out of his seat, and Tommy sunk down into his chair, trying to hide away from his anger. His eyes were doing that crazy look, as anger shot through him and that protectiveness Tommy longed so much for-

“Wil, please,” Phil said, shooting Wilbur a hard look. Wilbur grumbled something before sitting back down, glancing at Tommy, his face softening.

“I deserved it though,” Tommy said quietly and shrugged.

“You did not deserve to die,” Techno said, a harsh tone in his voice as his eyes bore into his. Tommy shrunk back even further.

Techno was rather scary. Tommy had a hard time deciphering what emotions he was feeling.

“No one deserves to die!” Wilbur added as he stared at Tommy, his eyes flickering back and forth, confused as to why Tommy didn't understand that.

“I don't want your pity,” Tommy said as he crossed his arms. He was beginning to feel like a charity case here, especially with Phil's stare.

“Tommy-“

”No! You don't know what happened there- Dream was not a bad guy, okay? Maybe a little bit- but no, he wasn't bad. He saved me. He made me who I am today- and I left him! Oh, I can't believe I left him…” Tommy had to stifle back a sob. Everyone was quiet for a long time after that, and it just made everything more awkward, as they all shot glances at one another.

Maybe he should just stop talking about it.

“Are they going to be looking for you?” Phil asked, breaking the silence, and Tommy nodded his head.

“Always.” Tommy shivered. He could still hear Eret’s voice from his dream, calling him back to them, his little pet bird—

“Tommy?” Phil asked, bringing him back to the present moment.

“Yeah?”

“How about… you stay with us for a while?” Phil asked. Wilbur lit up at that.

“No-“ Tommy immediately said, looking at Techno before at his lap, fiddling with his hands.

“Yes..?” Tommy looked at Techno, willing him to decide for him- man, making these decisions were fucking hard. How was he supposed to know what was right or wrong?

“Tommy, this is your decision to make, not mine. We’re offering you a safe place to live, food to eat, and protection. But if you truly want to leave, you can. No one would stop you.” Techno said as he stared at him and Tommy sighed. This was difficult.

If he stayed here, he would have access to food whenever he wanted- he would double-check that with Techno- a bed to sleep in, and three hero’s to protect him. That sounded pretty damn good to him... but how long would that last for?

If he left, he didn't know where he would go or what he would do. It was really a miracle he found them, wasn't it?

“I’ll stay.” Tommy decided after a long moment of intense thinking, as he looked up at them.

“Yes!” Wilbur shouted, as he basically jumped out of his chair and pulled Tommy into a tight hug, his arms wrapping around.

“Hey- no need to get all touchy-feely on me here,” Tommy said teasingly, but he hugged Wilbur back, a warmth spreading in his chest.

“You know, I only stayed because of Wilbur, if I left he would have been distraught without me,” Tommy said to the others, making Phil laugh, and Wilbur ruffled his hair.

“How could I guess Phil wasn't going to pass up the opportunity to adopt another kid.” Techno rolled his eyes, but a faint smile was on his lips.

Tommy felt happy, wanted, in that moment. He never felt this way with Dream before.

~~~~

“Techno,” Tommy said as he knocked on Technos door, two short knocks.

“Come in,” Techno called, and Tommy opened his door, taking in his room. It was very plain, with white walls and one grey one, a neatly made bed in a corner, a large bookshelf full to the brim with books, a desk, and the chair Techno was reading in.

Wilbur and Phil were at work right now, which was the perfect opportunity to talk with Techno. It had been two days since he first arrived. Wilbur barely left his side the whole time, as he made him as comfortable as possible. Tommy appreciated it greatly.

“So, nice place huh,” Tommy said, scanning the room for his suit. He had meant to collect it sooner, but so much has happened he never had the chance.

“Your suit is in a garbage bag, in the garbage,” Techno said, "because it is trash." He deadpanned.

“Wait- what!” Tommy shrieked, running out to retrieve his suit. His suit was not trash!

He returned back to Technos room out of breath, holding a partly open trash bag with his bloody suit in it.

“Put it back, it's pretty messed up.” Techno sat his book down, as he put his full attention on Tommy now.

“What- no! Dream gave it to me-“ Tommy said as he looked back in the bag at his mangled suit.

”So? It's trash.” Techno crossed his legs, raising an eyebrow at him. Tommy pushed down his annoyance for the man, trying to stay as civil as possible. But it was so fucking hard.

Tommy looked back in the bag, at all the tears and rips and burn marks, the blood and soot covering it. Maybe it wasn't worth keeping. “Okay, I’ll throw it away.” Tommy gave in, his shoulders sagging slightly, Techno was right he guessed.

“I can get you a new suit, assuming you're going to go out as Theseus?” Techno asked and Tommy nodded, brightening up slightly. A new suit- Techno would give him a new one, just how Dream gave him his last one?

“You’d do that?” Tommy asked and Techno smiled with a nod.

“Yeah.”

“Cool. Cool.” Tommy shifted on his feet, unsure of what to do next.

“Thank you-“

”No problem.” They fell into an awkward silence as Tommy worked up the courage to tell Techno what he had rehearsed in his head so many times. He awkwardly closed the bag in his hands, knotting it up tightly.

“Techno- you, can you-“ Tommy looked away, trying to get the right words out. It was so difficult to talk to Techno.

“What do you want me to do?” He finally said. He realized it made no sense at all to Techno.

“Why do you care so much about what I think?” Techno asked, leveling him with that same emotionless stare he always seemed to have.

“You're my trainer-!” Tommy couldn't help but say, before stopping himself, looking away from him.

“Sorry- I- it's just, hard. Confusing. You- my minds all fucked up right now.” Tommy went to leave, embarrassed and scared of Techno's reaction.

He fucked up, didn't he? Would Techno hate him for this?

“Wait, Tommy,” Techno said, and Tommy of course fucking listened to him, stopping in his tracks.

“I… understand what your going through. I was once in a similar position as you.” Techno said slowly, as if admitting his past trauma to some random kid was something he necessarily didn't want to do.

“You're trying to find a normal in an environment that isn't what your used to, right?” Techno asked, and Tommy nodded. That was one way to explain it he guessed.

“And that is… a trainer?” Techno continued on, and Tommy nodded again.

“Tell me about it. Talking will help. It helped me.” Techno nodded encouragingly at him. Tommy stared at Techno for a long time before sighing. He wanted to get better- he really did.

Maybe he should listen to them, and open up? Will talking really help like they say it does?

“Dream, and Eret, they were my trainers.” Tommy began, pausing for a second as he thought about what he would say.

“Trainers… take on a group of kids to mold and teach them into future assassins. But Dream only took on one at a time. Trainers own you, you can't do anything without an order or permission. Dream was always around me- and so was Eret.” Tommy shook his head, wrapping his arms around himself, he missed Dream.

“I know how terrible it sounds- part of me struggles with knowing it was all bad and wrong. I just… its hard, Techno.” Tommy looked at Techno with wide eyes. He knew some of it was wrong, like the killing him part, and the part where he had no freedom. But after a while it becomes all you've ever known.

“I don't know how to make my own choices-“ He admitted, his voice wavering slightly.

”Than that is what we will work on.” Techno nodded.

“Your free, Tommy. No one controls you. I’ll tell you that as many times as you need to hear it.” Tommy could feel tears filling his eyes. He had been waiting to hear that for a long, long time.

“I have no power over you, alright? You don't need my permission to eat or anything- unless it's like taking our car for a drive- but that doesn’t matter. Phil would teach you if you wanted.” Techno said and Tommy smiled, blinking back his tears.

“I can… eat or say anything I want?” Tommy asked and Techno nodded- he just need the reassurance.

“I… don’t need your permission for anything?” Tommy asked and Techno nodded again.

“But what if I don't know the right choice-“

”You can always ask us for what we think, Tommy, but we won't decide for you. No one will decide for you.” Techno said.

“I… see. Thank you.” Tommy went to leave before he stopped, the last thing he wanted to ask Techno coming to his mind.

“Hey… do you know where Tubbo is?”

——————————————-

Tommy didn't go to see Tubbo.

He wanted to, he really, really wanted to. But he wasn’t ready yet. So, when Wilbur and Phil returned, they watched movies the rest of the day. Tommy enjoyed it, it was a good distraction, but he couldn’t help the feeling of dread he had building in his gut.

How would Tubbo react? Would Tubbo even want him to come back? Would Tubbo hate him?

That was what he feared the most.

So, he had laid low with the Soots for the week. All three of them had taken him out shopping and he even got a haircut- which was difficult for Tommy. Dream usually cut his hair, and he missed Dream so much it almost hurt. Everything was strange to him. He constantly looked to Techno for his approval and he knew that was bad and a habit that would probably take months to break but he couldn’t shake it- not yet. Not when someone controlled everything he did, just to be thrown out into the world like that.

He had nightmares often, and by often he means every time he sleeps. Of Dream, Eret, them finding him. He always woke up panting, or one night, screaming. Phil had run in, a panicked look on his face before he saw it was just a nightmare, but Phil had stayed with him the rest of the night.

"Hey- Tommy, bad dream?" Phil guessed as he walked into his room slowly, his black wings puffed out, and his blue eyes wide.

Tommy nodded from where he was sitting up in his bed, clutching his blankets tightly in his hands. He was panting, breathing heavily as he tried to shake his nightmare off.

The dream had felt so real- terrifyingly so. Eret had found him and did what they promised they would if he ever ran away: they cut off his wings, one by one, ripping the bone out of his back, cutting through the flesh holding them there.

Tommy had screamed, from the feeling of helplessness he felt, fear, and terror of Eret fulfilling his promise.

Phil sat down on the bed beside him, holding out his arms to him, and Tommy gratefully threw himself at Phil and cried into his shirt. Phil wrapped his wings around him as he rubbed circles on his back, cooing and chirping comfortingly at him until he eventually passed out in his arms.

They gave him a room upstairs, the guest room, by Wilburs room. Technos room was the only one on the main floor, and Phil slept at the end of the hall. The house was big and rather cozy. Tommy liked it.

His room was nothing like his old one. It had a comfy bed and soft blankets, a window, and the decorations he had picked out in it. There were many cool posters, and shelves with random shit he saw and liked. The Soots were really rich, so he didn’t feel that bad about it.

He felt a little bad, but he wouldn’t admit it.

Techno had given him a new suit, saying it was better than his old one. One night, Tommy tried it on, making sure the door was locked before he even pulled it out from where he hid it under a pile of clothes in his closet.

Only Techno knew, and he wanted to keep it that way.

The suit was easy to put on, it slipped on like a shirt, and had a bulletproof vest in the front, two wing holes in the back, and a hood that would cover up his hair. The pants were more like jean materials, made of some special fabric that was flexible but also would take a lot to rip. He had saved his old gun holster, weapons, and mask from his old suit. The belt went perfectly with the red and black suit. The suit had some pockets but not nearly as many as his old one, and Techno had even given him a red and black jacket made of the same material to cover his wing holes when he didn't have them out.

It was very thoughtful of him. Also, more spots to hide weapons in.

Tommy liked the suit. It was similar to his old one but also different. He had to keep up his branding.

He noticed he had been getting restless lately, his muscles itching to be used, and his wings to be let out. He looked at the window, a plan forming in his head.

The neighborhood he was in was very spaced out, the houses had big yards and long driveways. The closest house was to the right, but there were trees separating their yard, so it wasn’t like they could see him if he ever tried to slip out.

The city wasn't far away, he could see the hero tower from here. Phil, Wilbur, and Techno were all out tonight- for the first time since he's been here. He could slip out for maybe, like an hour, jump around the city, see what was all new and shit. Maybe run into a mugging or something.

He needed to do something.

So that’s how he found himself slipping a couple of knives into his sleeves and boots from their kitchen(he was sure they wouldn't miss them), with his batons in his belt. He was mad he had lost his guns in the fight with the Warden, he didn't even think of getting them back, but this was no time to dwell on that.

He tied his jacket around his waist, his wings sprouting out of his back. Tommy let out a happy chirp as he ran his fingers through the red and white feathers, flexing his wings before opening his window, crawling out and hanging off the side of the window ceil as he closed it, before taking off to the city.

He smiled as the cool summer air ruffled his hair, as he flew up higher into the sky, soaring, the stars twinkling at him.

It was like a sea of stars.

He was finally free, free from Dream, from Eret, from everyone- he was free!

He could decide which roof he wanted to land on, he could choose which fight to take or which fight to ignore- he could decide what he wanted to say or when!

He choose the highest roof in the city, besides the hero tower- he wouldn’t go near it, not gonna risk another Warden incident, and perched on it, overlooking the city.

It was about ten, so there were still a lot of people out, walking the streets, which were very well decorated, full of hanging flowers and trees and plants. The streets and sidewalks were clean, and everything seemed in order.

At least in the main parts. Tommy noticed as he flew over, it was only near the hero tower that it was the nicest.

But, this was nice to just watch. So that’s what he did, watch the cars as they drove by, and the people that looked like ants from up here. He sat with his legs hanging off the roof, his wings tucked close to his back, before he decided he would fly off to the… more shady parts of L’manberg.

Tommy perched on a roof, overlooking the dark streets and even darker alleys. It wasn’t long until he saw a guy in a purple hoodie slink into an alleyway. Not suspicious at all.

Tommy quietly flew over to the roof of the alleyway, slowly peering over the edge. He could hear their muffled voices but that was it. In the alley was the purple hoodie guy, and another person in a mask and black sweatshirt.

Tommy watched them carefully, the guy in purple held himself perfectly still, but Tommy could tell he was ready to jump into action any moment. The guy in black seemed very relaxed, as if they’ve done this plenty of times before.

A bag was handed over to the guy in purple and he gave the man a stack of cash.

Hmm, was this the first drug trade of his vigilante career?

Tommy decided he would step in now. He jumped off the building, gliding around to the entrance of the alley, landing in a squat on the ground, his wings flared. The guy in black jumped back, hiding the money in his coat, while the guy in purple shot him a bored look.

“Ah, Theseus, I see your wings grew back.” The guy in purple nodded at him, his face partly covered by a mask over his eyes and the hood hiding his hair.

“Yeah, it was like a frog's leg, ya know?” Tommy said, hiding his agitation at being called Theseus. He wanted to leave that name behind, but the media had already decided that for him. He ended up on the news- which was really bad.

“That was a pretty nasty explosion.” The guy in purple said slowly, as if he was trying to imply something.

“It was, but It won't happen again.” Tommy immediately became warier of his environment: his eyes never leaving the guy in purple, but he listened for any ticking or hissing, or any flashes, anything that would be linked to an explosive.

“So, you escaped the Hunters?” He asked, but he already knew the answer. Tommy said nothing as he observed the guy. How did he know so much?

“Alright, Theseus, you’ve already wasted too much of my time. Move out of my way or I’ll have to make you.” He warned, stashing away the bag in a pocket, before pulling out a dagger from nowhere.

Tommy slowly stood up, his wings retreating into his back as he got into a fighting stance, waiting to pull out his own weapons.

“I would like to see you try— random guy-“ He lunged at Tommy, throwing his dagger at him. Tommy dodged just in time before he ducked a punch to the head.

“Purpled.” He said as he kicked him in the back of his leg. Tommy rolled forward before jumping up, a grin on his face.

“Purpled huh- what is in that bag?” Tommy asked, as he went to punch him but he grabbed his hand, twisting his arm. Tommy broke his grip and kicked him backward, pulling out a dagger from his boot. Purpled cracked his knuckles.

“Your pretty good, Theseus, but not good enough.” Purpled was lunging at him again, with lightning fast punches and kicks, landing a few Tommy couldn't block or dodge. He stumbled back before rolling off to the side, throwing his dagger at him, just nicking his leg as he jumped up.

Purpled cocked his head before pulling out a knife as Tommy grabbed his baton, whipping it to its full length and blocking his swing, swinging his baton and kicking out at Purpled.

Purpled was only able to block his baton and not his kick, and he was knocked off balance, falling to the ground. Before he could twist away Tommy jumped on him, grabbing the dagger from his hand and pressing it to his neck, his baton in his other hand.

“Your pretty good, but not good enou—“ Tommy repeated what Purpled had said, but in the blink of an eye Purpled had grabbed his hand holding the knife, pulling it away and grabbing him: flipping him over onto his back, the knife pressed against his neck now, his baton rolling on the ground out of reach.

“What was that, Theseus?” Purpled smiled down at him. Tommy tried to nonchalantly get the knife from in his sleeve, but Purpled saw his movement and slammed his arm into the hard concrete.

"Ow- that one hurt!" Tommy complained, a small smile on his lips. Purpled was good. Tommy struggled from underneath him, but Purpled didn't let up, so he did what he does best: distract.

“You can’t say I didn’t try to save you from a life of addiction, I mean drugs, really? And from like the shadiest guy ever?” Tommy tried to shake his head, but he could feel the blade of the knife digging into his skin.

“I didn’t buy drugs,” Purpled said curtly.

“I don't even do drugs- anyway, it's none of your business what I bought.” Purpled leaned down closer to Tommy's face.

“Theseus, it seems you don’t know the ins and outs of this city. How about I give you a little lesson on it? It would be a shame for this to happen again.” Purpled threatened, Tommy could tell Purpled was going to let him go mostly unharmed.

“A class? Like school? But mom, I don't want to go—“ Tommy began, making his voice sound all whiny, but Purpled gave him a cold hard glare, shutting him up.

“I am a mercenary, Theseus. I take jobs for people. Specifically for Las Nevada’s. Now, Theseus, I would recommend staying away from my work, or you will have the man himself after you.” Purpled warned him, pressing the dagger further into his neck.

“I only know one man and his name is the Angel-“

”You are quite the jokester, aren’t you?” Purpled shook his head.

“Do you understand what I’m saying?” Purpled asked, pressing the knife harder on his neck, drawing a thin line of blood.

“Sure. Yeah.” Tommy said. He understood, but did that mean he wouldn’t go against what he said and mess with Purpled again?

“Good.” Purpled stood up and off of him, wiping the knife on his gloves before tucking it away into his boot. Tommy grabbed his baton, making sure to keep his eyes on Purpled.

“Hm, Theseus?” Purpled asked.

“Yeah?” Tommy raised an eyebrow at him from he was brushing off the dust on his suit.

“This has been fun, hopefully we will meet again under better circumstances in the future.” Purpled nodded at him, before scaling the side of the building. Tommy watched him go, not making an attempt to give chase.

As he went to leave, he heard rapid footsteps approaching from the street. Without a second thought, his wings sprouted out and he took off into the night sky, deciding that was all the action he needed for one night.

So he flew home.

Since when did he see the soots house as his home?

Chapter Text

Today was the day, he decided, that he would go see Tubbo.

He doesn't know why he feels so solemn about it all, maybe he was just trying to prepare himself for the possible disappointment that Tubbo didn't want to be friends anymore, or if he hated him for being gone for two fucking years.

No one had told him he was… back. But he was certain Tubbo had seen the news and had been searching for him. It was just the slightest hunch he had.

Shaking his thoughts away, he glanced over at Techno who was driving him over to Pogtopia, which was about twenty minutes away. It was still the same shithole as it had always been, with the old crumbling buildings, the cracks through the bricks and foundations, with plants growing all along the buildings, like nature was trying to reclaim the land.

The sidewalks were in even worse conditions, the concrete falling apart, with big chunks missing all throughout the yellow and weed-ridden paths. Not to mention the roads with all of their pot-holes and fading street lines.

“I can say whatever I want?” Tommy asked when Techno had parked- he needed to make sure. Techno gave him the most annoyed look he had ever seen.

“Yes, Tommy.” He sighed.

“We’ve been over this how many times? You don't need my permission—“

”I- sorry. I just need to make sure.” Tommy looked down at his lap and Techno sighed again.

“It’s alright. Come on now.” Techno opened his door, and Tommy just stared at the small apartment building in front of him, crammed between two other buildings, with barely five feet between them, full of trash and shit.

The building was basically falling apart.

Tommy flinched when he saw Techno in front of his door window, shaking his head as he opened the door for him. Tommy shakily stepped out, his heart pounding as he gripped onto the bag in his hands. He had bought some candy for Tubbo, a peace offering of sorts.

“Techno- I don't think I can do this.” Tommy went to turn around, back to the car, but Techno put a hand on his shoulder, stopping him.

“Tommy, you can do this,” Techno nodded at him, his red eyes softening as he stared into Tommy's panicked blue ones.

“You can't avoid Tubbo forever, can you? Isn't he your best friend?” Techno rhetorically asked, reminding Tommy that Tubbo was indeed his best friend.

Tommy nodded, looking down at his hands as he messed with the plastic bag in his hands.

“I- no, yeah, your right. Your right. He’s my friend- I have to do this.” He took a deep breath as he looked back up at Techno with a small smile, before walking past him and up to the shitty building. He paused in front of the old beaten-up door, before he took in a sharp breath and turned the doorknob to the small lobby inside. He went up the old rickety stairs he was surprised didn't break as he walked up, and in front of Tubbos room. He looked at Techno.

“You- you’ll be there, right? Ya know, just in case Tubbo tries something-“

”Yes, Tommy, I’ll be there.” Techno said reassuringly, even though he looked a little awkward and disgusted at the condition of the place, but he didn't say anything. Tommy nodded, before he knocked on the door, dread building up in his stomach.

It had taken a lot of convincing himself to come here today and talk to him, but eventually his desire to see Tubbo again and laugh at his jokes and do shady shit with him won over.

He missed Tubbo dearly, his heart aching at how badly it hurt.

“Tubbo?” Tommy called when he heard nothing inside. Oh no, maybe he was out or something? Relief flooded through him that he wouldn't have to face his anger right now, but he was also a little disappointed that his friend wasn't here.

”Hey, Tubbo, its me, Tommy? Sorry about, like, leaving for a year or so… I dont really know how long it was. But uh- don’t be too mad. I brought you candy?” Tommy called out, just on the off-chance that Tubbo was home, and heard some shuffling around inside before the locks on the door clicked and the door creaked open.

Tommy tensed up when he heard the movements inside, shooting Techno a quick glance before he shakily took a breath in, his nerves coming back at full force.

“Who the fuck are you?” Tommy asked, surprised when he didn't see Tubbo, instead, he was staring at a tall as fuck dude with half white hair and half black hair, who also had two stubby horns atop his head. He was super tall and lanky- at least 6’3.

“I- uh, Tubbo? Do you know this kid?” The guy asked and Tommy's blood was boiling as he made his way into the apartment- his nerves forgotten and replaced with anger that someone else was here- that Tubbo replaced him with some- some other random guy!

“Man fuck you- I’m not a kid!” Tommy shouldered past him, angry that this guy was in Tubbos apartment, standing in his way, and Tubbo didn't even answer the fucking door—

“Tommy?” Tommy froze after he stumbled past the confused tall guy, his eyes meeting Tubbo's who was sitting at the counter with a laptop and headphones on. Tubbo looked about the same he had last seen him, maybe a couple of inches taller and his hair was a little longer, but that was it.

Tommy could only stare at him for a moment, as a rush of memories came over him at seeing the boy he called his best friend after two years of being apart. He was slightly worried Tubbo might have changed beyond his recognition, or maybe he hated him or just didn't want to be around him anymore-

“Tubbo! I- I'm sorry, big man. I'm so sorry I left- but I wanted to come back, but I couldn't and everything was just so fucked but I brought your favorite candy- I think anyways, I can't quite remember—“ as he rambled on, looking at anything but Tubbo, Tubbo had basically sprinted the short distance between the two and hugged him: tackling him to the ground.

Tommy landed with a big thud on the ground, with Tubbo on top of him, as Tubbo started crying, but it wasn't the ugly crying he usually did- not yet at least.

“Tommy- what the fuck?” Tubbo shouted at him, practically squeezing him to death as his arms constricted around his torso, so tight he could barely take in a breath.

“Tu- Tubbo, I can't breathe-“ Tommy gasped out as Tubbo let him go, before he slapped him. His cheek stung from the slap, as tears streamed down Tubbos red face, and Tommy let him do it. He deserved it, he really did. He was just surprised he didn't do more.

“You- you just come back after over a year- Tommy, I thought you were dead!” Tubbo hit him again, this time with less force behind it as Tubbo wiped away his tears, sobbing. Tommy sat up slowly, Tubbo having to shift slightly so he could sit up fully, before hugging Tubbo properly this time. He didn’t realize he had been crying until he saw he saw a tear drip onto his hand.

They stayed like that for a while, crying in each other’s embrace, glad to have the other back. Tubbo was still death-gripping him, not as bad as the first time, as if he was afraid Tommy would disappear again.

“Tommy?” Tubbo asked, his voice shaking as he pulled back, his eyes all red and puffy.

“Tubbo?” Tommy smiled at him and Tubbo hugged him again, his lip wobbling.

“God, I missed you so much. Don't ever do that again!” Tubbo said as he shook Tommy by his shoulders.

“I’ll try not to be kidnapped again-“ Tommy joked and Tubbo’s face fell, his eyes darkening. Uh, guess it was too soon to bring it up.

“So you were taken?” Tubbo asked, his detective face on.

“Uh- yeah.” Tommy looked at Techno, who was standing near the door, and the weird guy who was sitting on the couch watching them. He looked rather uncomfortable and confused, glancing over at Techno here and there warily.

“Who the fuck is that bastard?” Tommy pointed at the weird guy watching them, squinting his eyes. He did not like him.

“Oh- that’s Ranboo,” Tubbo smiled at Ranboo and Ranboo smiled back at him before shrinking back under Tommy's intense stare.

“Okay, Ranboob, how do you know Tubbo?” Tommy glared at him, and Ranboo flinched slightly under his glare.

“My name is Ranboo-“

”That's what I said, Ranboob, now answer my question.” Tommy gave him the stink eye, trying to intimidate him. It seemed to be working, the guy was getting all flustered as his face blushed and he looked down at his lap.

“I- met Tubbo, on a, you know the thing right?” Ranboo looked at Tubbo for help but Tubbo only shrugged, a grin growing on his face.

“We’re getting married!” Tubbo announced suddenly, cheerfully. Tommy whipped his head around to stare at Tubbo, his mouth dropping open.

“What?” Tommy gaped at him like a fucking fish.

“For tax benefits, of course.” Tubbo winked at him, and Ranboo hid his face in his hands. He was basically a tomato at this point.

Tommy glanced back at Ranboo than Tubbo- how the fuck would they get married? Weren't they still minors?

“Okay then…” Tommy shook his head, trying to get the image of Tubbo and Ranboo in suits getting married out of his head.

“I can't believe this. I'm gone for a year and you go and replace me and get married?” Tommy whined, pouting at Tubbo. Even though he was just joking, he couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy and resentment.

“Hey- who else was supposed to help pay your rent?” Tubbo crossed his arms, looking at him expectantly.

”Couldn’t you have, like, stolen a shit ton of money from a bank or something?” Tommy asked- Tubbo was very good at hacking into things.

“Possibly… but! That's very illegal, Tommy.” Tubbo finally noticed Techno in the corner and scowled at him.

“Who the fuck is pinky over there?” Tubbo leaned over and whispered to him and Tommy laughed.

“Oh, that’s just Techno. He… drove me here.” Tommy said with a shrug, not getting too deep into his answer, and Techno gave him a small wave.

“Do you wanna… go to our bench?” Tommy asked him, looking into Tubbo’s eyes. The bench was where they first met, and where they go to hang or talk and stuff like that. Tubbo smiled, his eyes watering, and nodded.

“Y-yes. Let's go there now- but, uh, can Ranboo come with? He doesn’t like being alone.” Tubbo asked and Tommy sighed, shooing Ranboo another hard look as he considered it.

“Fine, but he can't sit with us.”

~~~

”I fucking hate this.” Tommy grumbled, where he was squished against Tubbo who was in the middle of him and Ranboo, with Techno waiting in the car in the parking lot.

They were in the park in Logstedshire, near their old apartment, in a park with an old rusty playground Tommy sprained his ankle on once, and full of trees and benches and even a little lake.

It was a nice park for such a shitty part of the city.

“Sorry-“ Ranboo began but Tubbo cut him off.

“Ranboo already knows your Theseus,” Tubbo whispered and Tommy dragged a hand down his face. Does everyone just get to know he was Theseus now?

“Of course he does-“ Tommy groaned.

“So, care to explain all the white in your hair? You look like an old man.” Tubbo ruffled his hair, and Tommy batted his hand away before glaring at him.

“I’ll get there- I’ll get there, just calm down and listen, yeah?” Tommy asked, he felt like he was talking to a two-year-old. Tubbo nodded his head and Tommy sighed again.

“I was coming home from my shift at the hotel…” Tommy began, he told Tubbo mostly everything he went through. He didn’t remember a lot of it though, and there were some big gaps in his memory. He made sure to tell Tubbo how good Dream was, though, Dream may have done bad things but he was still good.

He kept out some of the more, graphic, parts of his time there, and he didn't even mention Eret to him. He only spent about a week under Eret, so it wasn't really notable in his summary.

“Tommy… that’s fucking terrible.” Tubbo breathed out, his face had a look of concern on it as Tommy shrugged.

“No- I’m serious. What those people did to you wasn't right- they killed you as punishments? Who the fuck is sick enough to do that?” Tubbo was getting mad, Tommy could tell by his increasing pitch in tone, and the way he was shaking slightly. He was really angry.

“I'm going to find those bastards and burn them all to the ground-“ Tubbo threatened, his eyes narrowing as he already began to plan out the best ways to go through with it.

“No, Tubbo, just- no. They would only do the same thing they did to me or kill you. Promise me you won't do anything, please?” Tommy pleaded with him. He doesn’t want any of them getting involved with The Hunters, it was bad enough that the Soots were. He would not drag Tubbo into this with him- even though he did just tell him everything that happened to him but he wouldn't let Tubbo get hurt because of him.

Tubbo just stared at him with a dead expression on his face.

“You’ve changed, Tommy,” Tubbo said with such certainty, as he tilted his head.

“I… know,” Tommy said. That was a rather stupid statement, obviously he’s changed.

“I don’t know if I like it.”

“Well, it's not like I can just go back to how I was before, Tubbo.” He was getting a little agitated at him and Tubbo sighed, playing with the string of his hoodie.

“I know,” Tubbo said solemnly before he suddenly gasped and grabbed onto his arm.

“Tommy- your wings!” Tubbo basically shouted and Tommy shushed him, looking around, but there was no one close by.

“Tubbo- not so loud!” Tommy whisper-shouted, glaring at him. Tubbo gave him a sheepish look.

“Sorry… but your wings? Tommy, I’m so sorry…” Tubbo looks like he’s about to cry again and Tommy laughs, but he finds his laugh isn’t very genuine.

“Tubbo, you worry-wart. My wings are fine, better than ever.” Tommy smiled at him. Even Ranboo was giving him a side look, concern lacing his eyes.

“I… may have gained another power, I’m not sure how, but I have super-fast healing,” Tommy explained and Tubbos face dropped.

“What- that’s, like, super illegal and dangerous— you could have died!”

“Tubbo, I died plenty of times, I don't think one more would have made a difference. All I remember was being—“ Tommy stopped himself, and suddenly he was back there, on the table, the straps keeping him down no matter how hard he tried to break free, the cold metal of the table sucking all warmth from his body, and oh the evil lab coats, and Ponk’s sadistic smile as he drilled into his shoulder, the vibrations rippling through his skull as he screamed into the mask and the fear and pain that engulfed him—

Tommy was off the bench now, on the ground. He wasn't sure why, or how he got there. Everything was a little fuzzy right now, his eyes finally focused on Tubbo who was on the ground beside him and Ranboo who was running off to Technos car.

“…mmy? Tommy?” Tubbo repeated his name, and Tommy blinked at him, finally seeing him as the cotton in his ears cleared.

“Y-yeah?” Tommy stuttered out, lifting a shaky hand up to his hair and running his hand through it, just like Dream did to calm him down. He took in a couple shaky breaths, he was fine, he was safe, he was okay-

“You alright, big man?” Tommy asked Tubbo, who was staring at him with that stupid worried look on his face that Tommy knew so well.

“I’m fine, but you don’t seem like it. Tommy-“ Tommy shook his head before standing on shaky legs.

“I'm fine- always have been, always will be. Just a little freaked out is all.” Tommy looked up at Techno as he quickly walked over with Ranboo. Techno looked at Tommy, then Tubbo, then Tommy before motioning to the car.

“I think it's time we go. It's been a long day.” Techno said curtly, and Tubbo glared at him as he stood by Tommy's side.

“Tommy, I wanted to ask you this earlier but do you want too-“

”Okay, Techno. Let’s go.” Tommy nodded, barely understanding what Tubbo even said as he gave him a long hug, before glaring at Ranboo, and following Techno back.

His mind was racing, memories were coming to the surface, as he seemed to relive those events, over and over again. He couldn't shake the feeling of being strapped down. He didn’t put his seat belt on, scared it would cause another… episode, or whatever the fuck that was.

Techno gave him a concerned look, putting the car in drive.

“Do you want to talk about it?” He asked after a while of driving. Tommy looked at him, bouncing his leg up and down before he shook his head, scared his voice would betray how he was on the verge of breaking down.

Techno didn’t push it any further and Tommy was grateful, as he watched the cars whiz past them, staring at the houses and the shops they passed by, until they got back home.

Everything was going fine, Tommy had pushed down the memories and feelings, but when he sluggishly entered the house, not really paying attention to his surroundings, Wilbur jumped out of nowhere, and suddenly he wasn't in the house anymore- he was back in the training room, with Dream.

“Theseus.” Dream snapped as he shoved him into the floor, hard, and Theseus barely caught himself, his arms protesting with the impact.

He was up in an instant, the slaps stinging on his cheeks, and the blooming bruises on his whole body dully aching.

He was here because he flinched this morning when Dream swung his hand just a little too fast towards him.

A flinch warranted this, and Theseus was angry at himself for doing it. How stupid was he? (But it was just a fucking flinch, what much was there for him to stop himself from doing?)

Dream lunged at him again, and Theseus stayed still, not even blinking as Dream punched him in the stomach, right in the same spot he had the other five times already. Theseus doubled over, gasping for a couple of moments, before forcing himself back up.

He had to be strong.

Dream stared at him with his white smiley mask, his green cloak discarded on the ground long ago.

Dream recoiled like a snake before striking again: and this time Theseus couldn’t help but flinch as he came towards his face with a punch, knocking him to the floor before he shook his head disappointed.

“You were doing so good, Theseus. But you fucked it up.” Dream grabbed a knife from his boot, flipping it in his hand as Theseus shakily stood up, his whole body tensing as he stared at the shiny knife he was playing with.

“I'm sorry.” Theseus bowed his head, mentally preparing himself for what was about to happen.

It was not going to be fun.

“Goddamnit Wilbur- you're grounded!” He heard someone shout as he left his tainted memories, the cotton from his ears fading away slowly.

“What the fuck- how was I supposed to know that was going to happen?”

“Your too rough. We are going to have a long discussion after this.” Phil said sharply

Tommy blinked away the haze from his eyes. He was staring up at the plain ceiling, it was so smooth and nice and calm, something he needed right now. Calm.

He slowly came back to his bearings- and he realized he was being held by Techno he presumed in his lap.

“Tommy?” He heard Technos's rough voice ask, worried and concerned as he leaned down to look at him.

Tommy opened his mouth to respond, but no words came out. What was he supposed to say anyway? He just wanted to stare up at the ceiling and forget everything that happened.

He wanted to forget.

“Tommy?” Wilbur asked this time, his voice sounding very small.

“Make some room- Tommy? Can you hear me?” Wilbur asked, Tommy could tell his brow was furrowed with worry even if he wasn't looking at him.

“I…” Tommy croaked out, before covering his eyes with his hand and taking in a shaky breath. Today was just not his day.

“I'm tired,” Tommy said.

He wanted to cry. He had been doing so well besides from the nightmares- he had been doing so fucking good. Today was not his day.

His hands were shaking and his whole body hurt: Dream had really fucked him up this time.

“We’ll get you to bed, Tommy, alright mate?” Phil said. Tommy opened his eyes again and stared at Phil, with his big black wings fluffed out behind him, his blue eyes watching him.

“I don't want to be alone.” Tommy basically whispered, tears forming in his eyes as he stared at Phil. Admitting a weakness was hard- really hard for him, and that’s what made him break. Hearing himself say it was enough to throw him over the edge, and he was hugging Phil now as Phil wrapped his wings around him like they were a blanket that hide him from the world.

“I’ll stay with you, Tommy. Don't worry.” Phil cooed as he ran his hand through his hair reassuringly, gently. The touch was so nice, nothing like he ever had before. Tommy started crying, hot tears streaming down his face as he tried to hold in his sobs. He was pretty sure he blacked out again, because he was in his bed now, a sort of nest of blankets around him and Phil was there, his wings hiding him away from the world as Phil told a story.

It was nice, to listen to him talk as he cried. Phil rubbed circles on his back and Tommy never felt so vulnerable before, his mind screaming at him, but he was alright with it. He didn't feel the need to move or even care about it.

He trusted Phil, and that was good enough for him to fall asleep without any dreams that night.

Chapter Text

Tommy stayed in his room a lot, staring at the ceiling thinking as he lay in bed, in the nest of blankets Phil had made for him. He was really glad Phil made him a nest of blankets and clothes, it was reassuring and comforting.

Wilbur or Phil would hang out with him for a while too, which was nice, he enjoyed the company, it served as a good distraction. Techno would occasionally knock on the door and ask if he needed anything.

Tommy looked at the phone Phil had got him when it buzzed, the screen lighting up his darkroom.

Wilbur:

whats up

Tommy smiled as he typed back the best and only response there was to that:

The ceiling.

Wilbur:

really?

Their text conversations were always fun, Wilbur would send him a lot of memes when he was at his work, and Tommy would find some to send back. Or they would get into fights over nothing.

Anyways, today he wanted to go back to what he was best at: fighting and flying. That's right folks, he was going out as Theseus tonight. He needed to clear his head, and what was better than running and jumping and flying across rooftops and fighting for his life?

But before he did, he was going over to Tubbo’s. He and Tubbo had talked about it on the phone: texting was too risky, what if someone saw the notification? And decided they would go back to their old way of doing it. An earpiece, Tubbo in the chair, guiding him, and fighting crime.

Apparently, Ranboo was a vigilante too, which intrigued Tommy, he wondered what his powers were. He was also surprised the shy boy was a vigilante, he mustn't go out much.

“Phil!” Tommy called as he walked down the stairs, his bag with his suit swung over his shoulder and his phone in his hand. Phil was watching tv on the couch, and looked up at him as Tommy jumped down the stairs, full of pent-up energy from staying in his room all day.

“Where are you going?” Phil asked as he stood up, shooting him a worried look.

“To Tubbos. I think I’m going to spend the night there.” Tommy said as he slipped on his shoes. Phil frowned, clearly he did not think it was a good idea.

“I don't think that would be the best idea-“

“Phil, biggest man ever- don’t worry about me! I’ll be fine.” Tommy smiled brightly at him and Phil sighed.

“Tdon't-“ Phil said as he stepped in Tommy's way, blocking the door. Tommy shot Phil a look as he crossed his arms.

“What if you have another episode? Or nightmare? I don’t like that you won't be with one of us-“

“Phil, do you really think three teenage boys who will be eating candy and gaming all night sleep?” Tommy shook his head, trying to do his best at convincing Phil.

“I most definitely won't be, so… I’ll be fine. You just worry too much.” Phil sighed as he stared at Tommy, an uncertain look in his eyes. Tommy stared at Phil challengingly: even if he said no he would still go. Phil wasn't his dad.

“Promise me you’ll call me if anything happens, okay?” Phil said sternly, giving in, and Tommy smiled, nodding his head.

“Yes dad- I promise!” Tommy grinned at him, seeing what reaction he could get out of Phil. But Phil didn't even seem to notice he called him dad.

“I’ll drop you off, it's a long way away-“

”Don’t you have patrol?” Tommy asked- not really wanting Phil to drop him off, and Phil sighed.

“Oh yeah, I forget about that,” Phil mumbled before looking back at him.

“I don't like you going out alone-“ Phil was such a worrier. Tommy was a big man that didn't need his protection. It was almost annoying how much Phil worried about him.

”Phil! I am a trained killer, if anyone tries to mess with me I dont think you should be worried about me.” He reminded him. It seemed like that was something they all forgot.

“I will be expecting a text from you when you get there, and I’ll pick you up tomorrow morning at eight, okay?” Phil hugged him, tightly, and Tommy hugged him back, melting into the touch just slightly. It wasn’t anything like Dreams, but it was still nice. (Or maybe even better than Dreams.)

”Okay- okay! Can I go now?” Tommy was bouncing on his feet, and Phil nodded, a sad smile on his face that Tommy didn't linger too much on as he made his way out the door, waving at Phil, before walking to the closest subway station.

Tommy found himself outside of Tubbos apartment in no time at all: even though it took about thirty minutes to get there. He was just so excited to be out again, and this time with Tubbo!

It was just like old times.

There was a worried feeling in his own stomach that he might have another... whatever the fuck those were around Tubbo. But his friend will be able to help him, they knew each other the best.

“Tubbo!” Tommy called as he knocked on the door. He heard shuffling inside before the door opened. Ranboo was standing there and Tommy glared at him before walking inside, throwing his bag on the couch like he owned the place.

Tubbo was at the bar, on his computer, and when Tommy came in he jumped out of his chair and hugged him.

“Tommy!” Tubbo exclaimed, grabbing his hands with a big smile and jumping up and down.

“I missed you- Tommy you should consider moving in with us!” Tubbo stared at him, a hopeful expression on his face. Tubbo must have been thinking about this a lot, as he stared at Tommy with that hopeful excited look.

Tommy wanted to, he really did, but… he liked living with the Soots. With Phil, Wilbur, and Techno. Anyways, Techno was his trainer so he had to live with him—

“I…” Tommy stuttered out, but Ranboo saved him from having to explain.

“Geez, Tubbo, your so pushy.” Ranboo shook his head, and Tubbo tackled him on the couch with endless amounts of energy. Ranboo was trying to push Tubbo away, but to no avail as Tubbo presciently tried to get at him.

“No I'm not!”

“Yes you are-!”

”Okay, boys, listen up.” Tommy clapped his hands together, getting their attention. He pulled out his Theseus suit and jacket from his bag he brought, staring at it with a fond look.

“We are playing hero tonight. Tubs, your my man in the chair. Ranboob, you, uhh, just be there.” Tommy nodded at him, with a thumbs up and Ranboo just blinked. What a freak. He was half hoping that Ranboo would offer to go with him, but he never did.

“Yes- earpiece!” Tubbo said as he jumped off of where he had been sitting on Ranboo and over to his computer.

“Wait- isn’t that mine?” Ranboo asked as Tubbo handed him it.

“Yes, I only have one right now.” Tubbo shrugged.

“Ew, I’m sharing ear wax with Ranboo?” Tommy said with mock disgust, as he wiped it on his shirt.

“You both are babies.” Tubbo shook his head, crossing his arms.

“I'm not a baby, but I can't say the same about Ranboob over there.” Tommy said as he put in the earpiece, pulling off his shirt before he awkwardly looked at Tubbo and Ranboo.

“Uh, i'll just change in another room,” Tommy said, before taking his bag and going into the bedroom and closing the door behind him.

The bedroom was very small, the bed took up most of the space, clothes were thrown around everywhere, some papers and books were scattered here and there, along with a couple of stuffed animals.

One, in particular, caught his eye. It was a cow plushie, up on a shelf, with a photo of himself beside it, and a couple of other things he recognized. His compass that he got in a set, and gave one to Tubbo, a couple of birthday cards, and photos of him and Tubbo.

Tommy was about to start crying as he gently grabbed Henry, swiping off the dust that had settled on him, and held him up to his face so he was eye to eye. Henry's black shiny eyes stared right at him, and Tommy hugged him tightly, fighting back the urge to cry as his eyes started to sting.

Why did a cow plushie make him want to cry?

After a while, Tubbo knocked on the door asking if he was alright, and Tommy quickly got changed, letting his wings out so he could fix his messed-up feathers before he took off, tucking Henry in his bag.

“I- I uh, I want to take Henry back with me. So I am.” Tommy said as he stepped back out, trying not to hit any walls or furniture with his wings.

Tubbo stared at him for a moment before smiling.

“I… did all that after I found no more leads,” Tubbo admitted, looking down at his hands.

“Speaking of which- I need to tell you about everything we know from that night.” Tubbo sat him down on the ground, as Tommy straightened out his feathers with his hand. The task of preening was one he always enjoyed, cleaning his feathers from all the dirt and grim and realigning the feathers.

“Okay, so, you got out of work thirty minutes early. Wilbur told you to go home. At the same time, there was a fight at the hotel with two heroes, The Blade, and Specter, interfering with human trafficking.” Tubbo's eyes drifted over to Ranboo, who gave a small nod. Tubbo smiled at him, a silent conversation going on between the two.

“Ranboo was the person they were selling,” Tubbo said rather casually, just dropping that bomb of rather horrible information. Tommy turned to look at him, his face dropping while Ranboo just looked at his hands.

“W-what?” Tommy breathed out. Ranboo had been an asset like him?

“Yeah. It's fucked up. An agent from the Hunters was selling him to a private party, but, in the panic of the fight, Ranboo teleported away and escaped. But, the Hunters agents didn't come alone-“

”Hold on!” Tommy interrupted Tubbo, and turned to face Ranboo with a deadly serious look on his face.

“You were an asset?” Tommy asked slowly, needing to know from the man himself, and Ranboo nodded.

“What… what do you remember?” Tommy asked as he inched closer to Ranboo, he wanted to know everything Ranboo knew and remembered-

“Tommy, don't push it,” Tubbo warned him, but Tommy was too eager to know what it was like for Ranboo- he had to know.

“I… I can barely remember anything from it.” Ranboo said quietly. Tommy felt his hopes and dreams falter at that.

“They… messed up my memory.” Ranboo’s voice was quiet. Tommy frowned, watching Ranboo closely before he knew of a way to tell if what he thought about Ranboo was right. Tommy suddenly jumped up towards Ranboo, who just shrunk back into the couch, squeezing his eyes shut as his breathing fastened.

“Tommy—“ Tubbo shouted as Tommy moved Ranboo's hair away from his neck, before his whole body froze up.

There, scared forever on his neck, was a smiley face. The warmth from his face drained away as he shakily took a step back, his mind spinning. Ranboo was shaking as he stared at Tommy like he had just murdered his whole family, quickly hiding the scar from view again.

“Ranboo, I-“ Tubbo grabbed him and pushed him away from Ranboo, huffing angrily at him.

“What the fuck man?” Tubbo shouted at him.

“You just can't fucking do that to him- out of all people I think you would understand best!” Tubbo was mad, like mad-mad, but Tommy could give less of a flying fuck at this point, his eyes trained on Ranboo.

Dream had talked about apprentices that failed under him. Or apprentices that were too weak. Apprentices that he didn't like and got rid of. Tommy always assumed he killed them.

Ranboo was one of them. One of Dream's failed apprentices who was to be sold off because he had not been good enough for Dream.

Tommy wanted to say those things out loud. It would have been mean, probably would have made Ranboo cry, but he managed to stop himself. He held his tongue. But he couldn't resist saying one thing.

“Ranboo, Dream was my mentor-“

“Enough!” Tubbo stopped him, blocking his view of Ranboo, but it didn't really work because Tubbo was shorter than him. Ranboo just stared at him, with those dull eyes, the eyes of someone who had been through hell. Tommy knew those eyes all too well.

“Okay- sorry!” Tommy said as he stumbled back, Tubbo giving him a death glare.

“Tommy, I fucking swear if you ever do something like that again-“

”Tubbo.” Ranboo said suddenly, to all of their surprises.

“It's fine. Tommy… went through the same thing I did. I- I can’t remember most of it, but he does. He would… know what it all means.” Ranboo looked at his hands, fiddling with them. Tubbo stared at Ranboo for a long time before glaring at Tommy, but he said nothing more about the matter.

“Anyways- where was I?” Tubbo said as he went back to the computer, obviously trying to change the subject. Neither Ranboo or Tommy stopped him as he continued, Tommy shooting Ranboo a look.

“Oh- yes, they didn’t come alone. A person reported seeing a man in green by the hotel. I assumed that was the man who kidnapped you, Tommy.” Tubbo said, looking at Tommy for his reaction.

“Ye-yeah, Dream. Dream did it.”

“After that, when you didn't respond, I decided to head to the hotel myself. That's where I found Ranboo, tied up, in an alleyway. I gave up going to the hotel and decided to get him to the apartment. It took a while to break the chains, but I was able to do it.” Tubbo looked down at his computer, a slightly proud look on his face.

“After that, I tracked your phone to the ally where you were… shot. I thought you were dead. But I didn't give up hope, as I searched for leads, hacked the camera's footage to see what happened, try and find any leads on the Hunters. It wasn't until I found a sketchy message leaked, talking about all of their, assets, until one about red and white wings. That's what kept me going.” Tubbo sounded like he was about to cry, which he probably was going to.

“And now… your here, back with us- and the Hunters are still out there, most likely coming back for you, and I want to take them down.” Tubbo looked at him, determination burning in his eyes, and revenge for what they did to Tommy and Ranboo.

“Me too, Tubbo. But I- I don't think I can.” Tommy fiddled with his wings.

“They’re… training is too engrained in my head. I- I still miss Dream all the time. I would do anything he told me to.”

“That's a problem… a big one. But, Tommy, you can help in providing information that we could use to take them down.” Tubbo nodded at him, already trying to find solutions, before a notification on his computer distracted him.

“We can discuss that later, right now there’s a robbery happening at a bakery,” Tubbo said as he put on his headphones, smiling brightly at Tommy. Tommy smiled back at him, putting on his mask, before slipping out the window and flying up to the roof.

“Where to, Tubs?” Tommy asked, his eyes scanning the part of town he was in. The sun was down and the streets were empty, only the flickering lamp posts and the occasional car passing by. Nothing like upper L’manberg.

“To your right, three blocks down,” Tubbo said and Tommy was off, starting off with a sprint before he jumped up into the sky, his wings catching him in the wind and he was flying off to the location.

“It's called Nikis Bakery,” Tubbo said in his ear as Tommy neared. He landed silently on a roof, perching low on it as he looked at the scene below him.

There was Nikis Bakery, with no lights on inside, no broken glass or anything. No sign of any person. But as Tommy looked closer, he noticed the door was slightly cracked open and saw the faint shadow of someone moving around inside it.

“Moving in,” Tommy told Tubbo as he ascended upon the streets, landing behind a concrete wall, hidden from all the windows. He would treat this as a mission. He slowly slunk around the side, peering out to the front of the bakery. There was no one there. He moved on to the front of the building, peering through the windows.

Inside, there was a man in black behind the counter, with a bag in front of him, and a crowbar as he tried to pry open the register. Tommy opened the door as quietly as he could, but the door of course fucking creaked, and the robber froze, before turning towards him.

“Hey, stealing from a bakery, really? How low of life are you?” Tommy shook his head, crossing his arms, before lunging at the man, his wings flaring out behind him, a scare tactic Dream taught him.

The man jumped back, tripping over a broom and falling with a loud thud. Tommy was at the counter, jumping over it, slamming the guy's head into the ground all in one swift move.

“Easy peasy-“ He began but then ducked as someone swung at him, before twisting around to face him. He had a gun pointed at Tommy, with a black mask on as well.

“Don’t fucking move or i'll shoot!” The man shouted, turning off the safety as he pointed it at his head, his eyes were wide with fear as he stared at the winged vigilante.

“No you won’t.” Tommy smiled smugly, before he grabbed the gun, turning it in another direction, and he was right, the guy didn’t shoot as he threw the gun out of his hands, twisting his arm before grabbing his collar and slamming his head onto the counter, a loud crack coming from him as Tommy broke his nose. The man slumped down onto the ground, unconscious.

Tommy dusted off his hands before he jumped over the counter, grabbing the gun that had skittered across the floor. He turned the safety back on before putting it in his holster.

“Thanks for the gun! Enjoy time in jail!” Tommy waved at them, before pressing a finger to his earpiece.

“Tubbo, mission accomplished.”

”Perfect. Police are already on their way.” Tubbos voice came back to him. Tommy left the shop quickly and flew back up to the roofs, perching on one of them as he watched the bakery, waiting for the flashing lights to appear. He was sure they would still be knocked out when they got there, but just in case something happened he stuck around.

When the police arrived he left, running and fluttering over the gaps in buildings, really just having fun. It wasn't until he felt eyes watching him did he become warier of his surroundings and the rooftops.

He sprinted as fast as he could, before jumping off the edge of a building, seeing how far he could make it without wings- which wasn’t very far, and he was plummeting to the ground. He smiled as he spread his wings and glided to the next roof, loving the way the wind ruffled his hair.

His wings were always there to catch him.

After a while the eyes on him started to bother him, paranoia creeping up his spine. What if it was Dream? Eret? Any of them really-

No. It was impossible. If it were one of them, he wouldn’t know they were there at all. So, he perched atop a building, near one of the edges, his wings tucked behind his back as he waited for who was watching him to show.

It wasn't long before he heard flapping of wings- and oh, oh, it was the Angel. Tommy watched him land on the roof, a ways away from him. The Angel had changed his outfit slightly, still keeping his iconic bucket hat, but he no longer had the crow mask, instead just a black mask that covered his upper face and green robes that looked more fightable in.

“Theseus!” The Angel called, his voice modular changing his voice. He was Phil. He was Phil. Tommy wanted to relax around him, to hide under his black wings, and be like an actual flock. But he couldn't. He was Theseus right now, the vigilante that had just returned from the dead.

“Theseus- your wings, they’re alright?” The Angel- no, Phil? Asked, surprise in his voice.

“I thought they were gone for good- I was out all night looking for you, mate.”

“Why?” Tommy deepened his voice, speaking lowly, as he watched Phil. He had to be very careful around him.

“Well- you are just a kid. A kid doesn’t deserve that to happen-“

”I'm not a kid.” Tommy spat, bristling. He was being fake-mad. The Angel- or, Phil, was too friendly with Theseus. Not a good thing really.

“Theseus, your so young mate. I'm just worried about you.” Phil said slowly, trying to keep him here to talk with.

“I stopped being a kid when they took me,” Tommy said quietly, death glaring at Phil.

“Not you, or anyone else saved me. No one did.” Now, Tommy was venting his own frustrations to Phil using Theseus. Phil could think Theseus hates him and not Tommy. Anyways, Tommy wanted to see how Phil would react to that. How much did he actually care?

Phil physically recoiled, a pained chirp coming from him. Tommy held back the chirp in his throat- no thank you, not today.

“I know, Theseus.” He sounded on the verge of tears, his voice was very pained as he stared at Tommy with his intense blue eyes. Tommy shifted positions, now sitting up to get a better view of Phil.

“I'm sorry… I'm so, so sorry. What happened to you was not okay- none of it was.” Phil stared at him, seemingly through his soul. Tommy pulled the hood further down, if he saw his hair Phil would know who he was.

“If I would have known what the Hunters were doing to you I would have stepped in-“

”No. No you wouldn’t of.” Tommy bristled at that, what bull shit- everyone was fucking terrified of the Hunters, and they had every right to be. Phil sadly smiled at him.

“Yes, Theseus. I would have.” Phil said, and it sounded like he really meant it. Tommy didn't know if he believed him or not.

“Theseus- please be honest with me. Do you have someone to help you?” Phil asked, as he sat down on the ground, on Tommy's level now. It made him less intimidating.

“I- yeah, I do,” Tommy said quietly, making sure to keep his voice lower.

“Good.” Phil nodded at him, some of the tension lining his shoulders disappearing.

“I'm always here too, Theseus. If you just want to talk. Or need the company, I’ll be here for you mate.” Phil smiled warmly at him, patting the ground beside him, and Tommy unconsciously found himself inching closer to the man.

“Theseus, I care about you, a lot actually. I can't tell you how beat up I was about the warden blowing you up… I gave him lectures for days after that.” Phil sighed as he shook his head, before smiling fondly at him.

Tommy was even closer now, a couple of feet away from Phil. Phil just had this way of pulling anyone towards him, with his soft and caring voice and his bright blue eyes.

“The Warden felt so bad after what happened- he was misaré le for days. But I knew you’d be okay.” And Phil continued talking, about anything really, and Tommy found himself inching closer to Phil, intrigued by him and his stories he enjoyed listening to so much.

He wanted to be close to him. He really did. It was especially special because he had his wings out. No one else in this stupid country was avians like them. He just wanted a flock… he was sitting beside Phil, not touching him, but just watching him, his wings relaxed behind him as Phil talked on.

Phil's wings wrapped around him as he just talked, Tommy not contributing much to the conversation, but that was okay.

“Theseus?” Phil asked after a while. Tommy lifted his head up To meet his blue eyes.

“Did you… escape with anyone?” Phil asked, and Tommy's heart started to pound faster.

“I… did,” Tommy said, desperately trying to remember the lie he made up.

“He got away from the fight. I tried searching for him, but I was too… hurt to do so.” Tommy shrugged, his heart starting to speed up, and he hoped Phil couldn't tell.

“You’ll think this is real funny.” Phil chuckled.

“He actually broke into our house, bleeding out, but luckily one of my sons was home and cleaned him up. He’s doing great now.” Phil smiled softly at him. Tommy huffed as he looked away.

“I'm… glad.” He said slowly.

“Take good care of him, will you?” Tommy said as he looked back at Phil.

“I never could, I never will be able too- but you can.” This was Theseus talking now. Theseus never was able to take care of Tommy. Theseus just wanted to survive to the next day and please Dream. Theseus didn’t care about Tommy, he wasn't trained to- he didn't know how to.

“I promise you I will,” Phil said softly, he looked on the verge of tears again and Tommy had to look away as a guilty feeling rose up in his chest.

“Theseus, will the Hunter’s be after you two?”

Tommy looked back at him and nodded.

“They will come for us both. If I get caught…” Tommy trailed off, shivering at the dark thoughts that came along with that.

“He’ll cut off my wings and hang them above his throne.” Tommy basically squeaked out. That had been bothering him for a long, long time. He wanted to cry. Now, Phil being Phil, pulled him in for a hug, and Tommy didn't push out of it, even though he should have. He really, really should have.

Why was he even telling Phil any of this? How stupid was he- just telling Phil his darkest thoughts?

“I won't let that happen, I promise you. I will be there this time, Theseus.” Phil was hiding his anger well, as he hugged Tommy, not touching his wings, which Tommy appreciated. Tommy could tell he was fuming by the way his wings were twitching and the slight crack in his voice.

“If they ever come after you, go to the hero tower, alright mate? The heroes will protect you. I will protect you.”

“Angel-“

”Call me Phil. Angel sounds weird.” Phil smiled down at him, and Tommy's eyes widened- he just gave his name to a random vigilante?

“I- okay. Phil, if they come for me… I can't fight back. All he has to do is give me the order to come with him.”

“You can run.”

“If they show up, or if you even think they’re there- run to the hero tower. Or fly, either-or.” He could run. Yeah, he could run before Dream or Eret ordered him back. He nodded, that sounded like a good plan.

“Uh, Phil? What's happening?” Came a new voice. Tommy jumped out of Phil's embrace, accidentally kicking the man in his side, his wings flapping wildly as he distanced himself as much as possible, drawing out his dagger in his hand. His heart was pounding as he saw Spector standing behind where Phil had been sitting.

Phil's eyes caught his freaked out ones as he turned to Spector- er, Wilbur. His voice sounded off too. Phil didn't look half as terrified Tommy was- just a little annoyed and frustrated, but his eyes never left the two of them.

That was close- to close.

“Specter, what are you doing?” Phil asked him, in an annoyed tone. Wilbur couldn't help but grin, the bastard.

“You weren’t responding so I came to check on you, only to find you having a heart-to-heart with a vigilante!” Wilbur laughed, amused with the whole situation.

“Phil- please don't tell me you want to adopt another one?” He joked.

“Enough Wil- Specter! We will be talking about this more later.” Phil glared at Wilbur, before whispering something to him.

“But Phil- it's already too late!”

”Oh you little shit-“

“Anyways, Theseus, my man.” Specter stepped towards him, and Tommy gripped his dagger tighter, his grin unsettling him. He was Wilbur- but he didn't seem like Wilbur, not the Wilbur he knew.

“What happened that night you escaped, with Tommy?” Specter was getting too close, and Tommy backed up closer to the edge, his wings bristling.

“Specter, stop.” Phil snapped at him, and Specter froze in his spot, holding up his hands in mock surrender.

“Leave him alone,” Phil told him, a warning in his voice as he glared at Specter.

“I just have some questions, that’s all.” Specter shrugged innocently, but there was that wild look in his eyes that frightened Tommy.

“I’ll stay right here, won't move an inch.” Tommy didn't trust his words at all. He was ready to bolt, and Specter must have sensed that.

“Stay.” He said quietly in that honey-like tone, and suddenly Tommy wanted to stay, even though everything else was screaming at him to leave. His limbs felt unnaturally heavy, a fog settling over his mind.

“So, Theseus, tell me, how do you know Tommy?” Specter asked, crossing his arms. Tommy said nothing.

“Specter-“ Phil began.

“No-!” Specter snapped at him, bristling, not even glancing at Phil.

“I have to make sure he didn’t hurt Tommy.” Specter spat the word he with so much hate Tommy wanted to recoil.

“Theseus, tell me, what did you do to Tommy?” He used that same tone again, his voice compelling him to speak. Tommy tried to resist it, but he only ended up feeling nauseous.

“I- I did noth—“ Tommy stuttered out his words. His grip on his dagger was so tight he was losing feeling in his hand, his whole body trembling now.

“Bullshit!” Specter snapped, stepping closer to him now. Tommy started hyperventilating, his mind going a million miles an hour as he tried to break free of Spector's powers.

“I know you did something to him—“ Specter reached out for him, grabbing his wrist that had the dagger in it. This was when Tommy snapped. He dropped the dagger, grabbing it with his other hand, grabbing Specter's arm with his free hand, and twisting it, hard.

Specter let out a surprised noise as Tommy flipped him over, twisting his shoulder, and placing the knife on his neck. In his eyes, Specter was not Wilbur. He didn't even notice Phil running over or hear him until Specter became invisible and was out of his grip.

Tommy jumped back, his eyes landing on Phil.

“Theseus- go, please. I'm sorry.” Phil insisted, and oh poor Phil, he had to deal with so much shit, he was probably going to feel really guilty after this.

Tommy barely gave him a second look before he turned and jumped off the building, soaring off into the night sky.

“Tommy? Hey, I got another report for-“

”Tu-Tubbo, not right now.” Tommy cut him off.

“Is everything alright?” He asked worriedly.

“Y-yeah. I'm coming back.”

Tommy did not sleep that night, but it wasn’t because he was playing games or having fun. He wished it was.

Specters smile haunted him every time he closed his eyes, and his honeyed voice repeated over and over in his mind.

The worst part was, Specter reminded him of Dream, but not in the good ways.

Chapter Text

Wilbur didn’t think he pushed it too far. He really didn’t- he wanted an answer, and he would get one no matter what.

But Phil, oh Phil, thought he took it way too far- straight up threw it off the cliff and fucking blew it up.

“Wilbur- I can’t believe you just fucking did that!” Phil yelled at him, pointing to where Theseus had just been on the roof.

Now, when Theseus was cowering on the roof, shaking violently as he tried to run away, Wilbur felt a little bad. But he had to know if Theseus hurt Tommy.

“I was finally getting through to him and you fucking ruined it!” Phil was fuming, as he yelled at Wilbur, his wings flared out behind him, his fists were clenched in anger.

“Theseus was in the same position as Tommy- maybe even worse! You saw the videos, Wilbur! You saw how he was treated like a pet!”

“But Theseus could have hurt Tommy!” Wilbur shot back, bristling.

“What if Theseus was like them- what if he hurt Tommy too?” Wilbur voiced his suspicions.

“He didn’t, Wilbur.” Phil snapped at him, his blue eyes full of anger. The high from finding Theseus was beginning to fade now, replaced with a coldness throughout his body.

“He fucking didn’t. He asked me to protect Tommy because he never could. If you don’t think Theseus tried to help Tommy then you must be fucking stupid!” Phil yelled at him before he dragged a hand down his face.

“I don’t want to see you right now, Wil. We will be discussing this much more later. Get out of my sight.” Phil dismissed him, waving at him to leave as he turned his head away from Wilbur.

“Don’t even think of following after him either.”

“Phil-“ Wilbur called, the weight of what he did crashing down on him.

“No- I said fucking go!” Phil snapped at him, his blue eyes blazing from behind his mask. Wilbur stood there like a deer in headlights, before slowly turning and phasing through the building to get to the ground.

His limbs felt heavy as he walked the streets, thinking about everything he did. It wasn’t that bad, right? A little fear never hurt anyone. Forcing Theseus to tell him what happened didn’t seem that wrong.

He found himself walking back to the hero tower. He needed to talk to someone. Techno should be up still. He pulled out his phone and got to Techno’s contact. His finger hovered over the dial button as he stared at the screen until he pressed it, holding his phone up to his ear as it ringed.

“Techno?” He said as Techno picked up the phone.

“Wil- is everything alright?” Came Techno’s rough voice, it sounded like he had been asleep. Whoops.

“We’re you sleeping?” Wilbur asked, feeling a little guilty for waking him up.

“Yeah- what is it?” Techno yawned.

“Oh, nothing. It can wait.” Wilbur sighed. There was a pause from the other end before Techno sighed.

“No, tell me.”

“Phil is fucking pissed at me and I don’t know what to do,” Wilbur complained, slightly lost at how he was going to get Phil to forgive him.

“Phil wasn’t picking up when I called him so I went looking for him and found him having a heart-to-heart with Theseus, of all the fucking vigilantes out there.” Wilbur rolled his eyes, his annoyance seeping back in at how stupid this whole situation really was.

“What?” Techno sounded much more awake now.

“Yeah- exactly. Theseus. But his wings were all fine- intact. Nothing like how they were. How? I have no clue, but that doesn’t matter. I confronted him and used my voice on him, I think I scared the shit out of him.” Wilbur ran a hand through his hair as he rambled.

“He resisted my powers pretty well, Phil stopped me before I could do any more. I don’t trust Theseus one bit.” Wilbur felt the fire come back for a second, curious and angry at how well he managed to resist him.

“I’m certain Theseus did something to Tommy, and I’ll find out what it was.” Wilbur knew he would keep through with his words: Tommy meant the world to him.

“Wilbur… I don’t think that’s a good idea.” Techno said in his stupid monotoned voice.

“You should leave him alone.” Techno advised, but Wilbur didn’t want to hear that.

“No- no! Theseus is involved with Tommy and the Hunters. I can’t just let him go.” Wilbur didn’t understand why none of them understood what he was saying- if anything Phil should be the most cautious of Theseus.

“Wilbur, just leave him alone, will you?” Techno sounded tired.

“No, Techno, you know I can’t,” Wilbur’s voice sounded strained and Techno was silent.

“Leave him alone for the rest of the night, please?” Techno asked, and Wilbur was stunned for a moment. Techno never used please before, not so genuinely anyways.

“Okay. I will.” Wilbur said shortly and hung up the phone as he made his way into the hero tower.

He made his way up to his floor and wrote down everything he knew about Theseus.

His wings are healed.
He has strong resistance to his powers, but it’s not strong enough.
He is very quick.
He is quiet.
Do not underestimate.

He wrote the last one as a reminder. Theseus could have easily killed him there if he didn’t hesitate. Wilbur had forgotten he was a trained assassin- he had to be more careful.

He could easily just tell him not to harm Wilbur, or to come willingly with him, or to become his own pet. He could enchant Theseus and make Wilbur his whole life-

The last one was going a little too far. Maybe just a little- actually a lot. Wilbur closed his eyes, tapping the pen on the desk.

Theseus had been terrified of him. Theseus had wanted to run as soon as Wilbur got closer. And -something Wilbur wasn’t proud to admit- he liked it.

And he wouldn’t stop being like this to Theseus until he got the answers he wanted.

He would give the world for Tommy.

He would also get revenge for Tommy, because Tommy isn’t strong enough to do it himself. And if that meant by starting with Theseus, then so be it.

They will pay for what they did.

Wilbur spun around in his chair, pulling out his board with all the information he had gathered on it and photos of Theseus.

At the hero tower, most of the heroes didn't like vigilantes, but everyone seemed to like Theseus the most. There had even been rumors going around that Theseus would be invited to become a hero, but nothing came of that, and nothing probably will.

Sam was the worst about it all. He asked everyone every day if they saw him out on patrol, and as the days ticked by he tore himself up more and more when there was no sign of the guy. He will be ecstatic to hear that Theseus is doing just fine.

Theseus was like a wild animal. Feral: unpredictable and deadly. He could never become a hero.

Wilbur had seen the videos the Hunters had sent. Theseus was in two of the four of them, always by Eret, listening to his commands. Other agents were always there, one in a white mask with a smile, who Wilbur wanted dead, and two other guys that looked pretty normal.

Dream, the smile guy, had branded Tommy. He wondered if Theseus had the same thing, or if Theseus also had his own sick branding.

The Hunters were not a group to be messed with, but so were Wilbur and the other heroes. They were all on their side after Phil had called a meeting and explained to them everything that happened with Tommy coming back from escaping the Hunters.

Everyone tried to offer their set of skills to help figure out more information: the case was technically off-book and Schaltt- the president of L’manberg and founder of the heroes- had no idea about it.

It would be best if it stayed that way.

Anyways, Niki had posed the question of offering Tommy a job here. The hero tower was the safest building in L’manberg, not just anyone could get in, and if there was ever an attack, a hero could come quickly to his aid.

Plus, Wilbur would get to hang out with him even at work all day.

He would ask Tommy tomorrow, certain he would enjoy getting out of the house.

He didn't want to go home, but he had no choice really- Phil would be punishing him gravely.

—————————

Tommy sluggishly followed Techno inside, instantly alert the moment he saw Wilbur sitting at the counter, his face a little redder than usual, and Phil who looked like he just got done lecturing a whole class of kids.

Techno shot him a knowing look, and Tommy just looked at his hands before he yawned, trying to hide the way he was instantly on edge.

“Hey mate- how was the sleepover?” Phil asked as he took a sip of his coffee, watching him carefully.

Tommy sleepily smiled, putting on his best acting performance. He wasn’t called Tommy Best-Actor Innit for no reason.

“It was really fun- we played games and ate a lot of candy and shit.” Tommy lied: yawning, making his eyes look droopy. He was a good liar.

“That's good. It looks like you got no sleep, huh?” Phil mused, his wings twitching as he walked over to Tommy and hugged him, his wings wrapping around him. Tommy relaxed as he hugged Phil, leaning into his touch slighlty.

“You should go to bed,” Phil said as he ruffled his hair gently, pulling at the knots.

“Oh- wait! I have something I need to ask Tommy first.” Wilbur said from the counter, tossing aside the newspaper he had been looking at. Tommy flinched, before cursing at himself for flinching, but no one noticed. Phil was giving Wilbur a hard look.

“Wil-“ Phil began.

”I want to ask him, you know.” Wilbur winked at Phil, getting all giddy and shit. It took Phil a moment to get it, maybe because he was so old, but when he did he nodded his head.

“That and only that,” Phil said sternly, he was obviously still angry at Wilbur. But Tommy wasn't supposed to know why, so he just stared at the two of them with wide confused eyes.

“Okay then.” Techno said from where he sat on the couch, his red eyes watching Wilbur with a calculating look, something wary in them.

“The fuck Techno-“ Tommy sputtered out, laughing. Why was he just there? Techno shrugged, tucking some of his pink hair behind his ear before he went on scrolling on his phone.

“Come on, Tommy!” Wilbur said as he grabbed his wrist gently. Tommy froze, taking a sharp breath in as Wilbur pulled him up the stairs to his room, his mind flashing back to last night.

This was Wilbur. Not Specter. He was Tommy, not Theseus.

“I- Wil, what are you doing?” Tommy asked, breaking out of his daze as he threw his bag in his room before Wilbur pulled him into his own. Wilburs room was decorated like a teenagers, with posters hanging up on the walls, shelves full of random shit, and a messy bed. His guitar was resting against his bed, and sweatshirts were scattered around.

Wilbur jumped on his bed, before patting the spot next to him and Tommy grumbled before sitting next to him. Wilbur looked very excited- about what? He had not a clue. This Wilbur seemed nothing like the Wilbur on the roof.

Wilbur ran a hand through his hair nervously, before setting his hand on his guitar.

“Hey, Tommy?” Wilbur said, a little unsure.

“Hey, Wilbur?” Tommy mocked him and Wilbur laughed before looking at him.

“Geez Wilbur, will you spit it out already?” Tommy shot at him, mock annoyance in his voice.

“Yeah- okay, are you bored here all the time?” Wilbur asked him and he nodded slowly, wondering where this was going.

“I mean- yeah. It's fucking boring doing nothing all day.”

“Okay- how about I offer you a job at the hero tower?” Wilbur smiled at him. Tommy blinked at him for a moment.

“A what now?” Tommy said.

“A job! You’d be working on our floor with all three of us- you’d just be helping us out with paperwork and office shit, but you can also start up our social media page if you wanted.” Wilbur had obviously thought about this a lot as he went into detail about what he would have to do.

“Wilbur- Wilbur!” Tommy got his attention by waving his hands. Working at the hero tower sounded like a bad idea, sure, especially since he was a wanted vigilante. But, working with heroes was something he always wanted to do- his childish lifelong dream of being a hero seemed one step closer!

He could never be a hero because of Theseus and his iconic wings. The Hunters would always be after him, and he doesn’t think he could tolerate being under the hero’s strict schedules and all the stupid paperwork that came with it, not to mention the legal issues as well.

Vigilantism was so much easier- he could go out when he wanted, do what he wanted, mess around, beat up a few people here and there and call it a night. It was illegal, yes, but that wouldn’t stop Tommy- and hasn’t stopped Tommy from various other crimes before either.

Year 2016- The ice cream incident.

Good times, good times…

“I've decided after hours of careful consideration and analyzing, my answer is…. No.” Tommy smiled at him, and Wilbur's face fell.

“I'm just kidding- yes, I would love to.” Tommy laughed, a warm feeling so rewarding in his chest at how crestfallen Wilbur had looked.

“You should see the look on your stupid face—“ Tommy started but Wilbur tackled him, and they started play fighting.

“Oh, you piece of shit- I’m cutting your pay in half!” Wilbur threatened.

“I haven't even started yet- you can't do that! I'll get Phil!” Tommy whined in between laughs.

“No- anyone but Phil!” Wilbur cried out as he tickled Tommy. Tommy was okay with this. Actually, he was perfectly fine. After another tussle, Wilbur pushed him off the bed and Tommy fell backward onto the ground with a loud thud.

“Hey- you bitch! That was uncalled for!”

“Who are you calling bitch, bitch?”

“Oh that’s it- I’m going to stab you,” Tommy said as he jumped back up onto the bed, and they were fighting again. After Tommy's exhaustion had caught up with him he collapsed onto the bed, panting as he stared up the ceiling.

“I surrender- no more!” Tommy said as he lazily hit Wilbur's hand away from him.

“Hm, tired little baby needs a nap?”

”Oh fuck off.” Wilbur laughed before sitting up.

“You know Wil, we’re like brothers,” Tommy said suddenly. Wilbur looked back at him with wide eyes, a smile forming on his lips.

“Don’t say that, I’ll cry.” Wilbur chuckled, but in his eyes Tommy saw that it meant a lot to him. Tommy smiled back at him before yawning.

“Do you want to listen to the song I've been writing?” Wilbur asked as he grabbed his guitar, strumming a few notes.

Tommy nodded his head, sitting up, eager to listen to his song. He had heard Wilbur play songs before, but he never performed them for him.

Wilbur moved the hair out of his face, before he began playing his guitar, starting to sing about some girl. Women, am I right?

As Wilbur played his song, his voice lulling him into a drowsy state as his exhaustion hit him in full force once again, until he found himself half asleep, listening to Wilbur sing.

It was nice. He felt at home, safe.

He felt like he had a family.

~~~~

Today was his first day at his new job. He stared up at the tall hero tower, there was a helicopter pad at the top of it, all-glass windows. It was of course very nice, being in upper L’manberg. Everything was nice here.

Wilbur and him had walked here, Phil and Techno going in much earlier.

“Come along, Tommy! There’s so much to show you- but first, you’ll need a badge.” Wilbur said as he nodded to the guards at the entrance, who had guns and looked ready to shoot anyone who so much as give them a sideways look.

Tommy shivered, before following after Wilbur. Inside there was a desk with two people behind it: a brown-haired dude in a brown jacket, and…

“Sam?” Tommy said, shocked, as he stared at the green-haired man who looked up from what he was doing.

“Tommy?” Sam looked up, his eyes meeting Tommy’s before he ran around the counter, pulling him into a tight hug. He saw Wilbur grinning from the corner of his eye as Sam practically suffocated him.

“S-Sam, I can't breathe!”

“Oh- sorry. Tommy, I haven't seen you in forever! Never do that again- ever.” Sam said as he shook his shoulders, his green eyes full of emotions.

“I mean it- if you disappear again ill have to ground you myself.”

”You're not my mom, I’ll do what I want.” Tommy said as he crossed his arms, but he couldn't help a smile tugging at his lips.

“How’s the hotel?” He asked curiously.

“Not the same since you left.” Sam sighed.

“What about Eyrn?” Tommy asked. Eyrn was his work buddy.

“Oh, he's still working there. Great receptionist.”

”So… this is your second job?” Tommy asked as he looked around. “What are you, a janitor?”

“Very funny, but no. I'm a hero.” Sam smiled at him. He did not look like a hero right now, in old stained jeans, an ugly grey t-shirt, and his green hair all spiky and unruly. Tommy raised an eyebrow.

“I don't see it.” Tommy squinted at him.

“The Warden?” Sam pointed to his green hair, pretending to hold a trident. Tommy's eyes widened.

“You're the Warden?” He breathed out and Sam nodded.

“The one and only.” Sam winked at him.

“So you're the one who beat the shit out of my good ol’ pal Theseus-“

”I didn't know what I was doing!” Sam exclaimed, getting flustered.

“Oh my god- I’m so sorry Tommy. You and him were supposed to be free together-“ Regret and pain filled his eyes as he looked at Tommy.

”It's fine. Not like we were friends, Theseus just… wanted me to get out. I don't think he really cared about himself.” It was weird talking about himself like this, especially with Wilbur around.

“What do you mean?” Wilbur asked, putting his arm around his shoulder.

“I- uh, Theseus… I think he was kind of giving up at the end there, Eret really fucked him up. He didn’t care what happened to him as long as I was okay, which I am, so I’m assuming he’s just gonna do his own thing now.” What he was saying was true: Eret had fucked him up, bad, but that was Theseus.

He was Tommy, a normal person with a mostly normal life and a… family.

“What did Eret do?” Sam asked, it sounded like he actually cared about Theseus, even though he fucking blew him up. Tommy looked down at his hands.

“Don’t answer if it's too hard-“ Sam followed up quickly.

”No, I’m fine. Eret, he treated him like an animal. A pet. He put a…” Tommy had to stop himself from crying out sobbing, before he shook his head to cover it up his distress.

“Never mind.” He mumbled quietly, Sam looking at him with pity in his eyes: he hated that.

“It's okay, Toms. Let’s get you your badge then head up.” Wilbur shot Sam a hard look before leading him to a door, Sam following after them.

“I’ll handle it, wait out here,” Sam said as he unlocked the door. Tommy swallowed his nerves, as he entered the room almost numbly, searching for possible exits and weapons he could use- a habit he hadn’t quite broken yet.

He didn’t like Wilbur leaving him.

The room was small, with a glass chamber and a circular pad in the center of it, a couple of screens here and there. Sam closed the door behind them, making Tommy jump.

“Leave anything metal out here, the machine in there will scan you, and then your DNA will be in the system and I will be able to print you a badge.” Sam nodded to him as the glass door opened.

Tommy hesitated.

“Do I have to? Can’t you just take my picture?” Tommy asked as he turned back to Sam, a hopeful expression in his eyes.

“I mean surely you don’t need to do all that-“ He said a little panicky.

”It’ll be fine, Tommy. Just close your eyes, it's painless.” Sam smiled softly at him. Tommy did not trust Sam enough to leave himself as vulnerable like that.

“This is standard protocol for anyone who works here. It’s how you get in and out of the building and various other things.” Sam explained, as if it would make him feel any better.

Tommy stared at Sam before stepping into the room and then onto the pad. The door closed and he had to stop himself from throwing himself at the glass to get out. The room was all white, with bright lights, just like Ponks lab.

He was not there, he's at the tower. The tower, yeah. Wilbur was there- just put the door-

“I'll begin the scan now.” Sam pressed a button and Tommy had a feeling this would go horribly wrong.

Blue rings from the ground floated around him, doing whatever the fuck they were doing. Tommy did not like it one bit. There was a strange buzzing noise filling the whole room. When Sam said it was done he practically sprinted out the door, leaning against the wall as he waited for Sam to print the stupid fucking badge already.

Sam was scrolling on his iPad before he froze, all the life draining from his face as he looked up at Tommy then back at the iPad as if something was wrong.

“What?” Tommy snapped, growing impatient as he shifted from foot to foot nervously.

“Tommy- your Theseus?” Sam sounded so heartbroken and conflicted as he stared at Tommy, a cyclone of emotions running through his eyes.

Tommy froze and tensed, his mind subconsciously searching for the closest weapon: a chair in the corner, the light fixture, a loose floor tile. He narrowed his eyes slightly, watching Sam’s every movement.

“Sam, you will delete that from the file immediately and tell no one.” Tommy breathed out coldly, surprised his voice was working as well as it was right now.

“Tommy, you should tell Wilbur-“

”No!” Tommy snapped, his fists clenching as he took a shaky breath. “I’ll tell him when I’m ready. Don't fucking ruin that for me, Sam. Don't ruin my life. Please.” Tommy practically begged. This was so, so bad. Sam looked back down at his iPad before he did something on it.

“It's done,” Sam said, even showing him his file. Under powers he was listed as power-less.

“Thank you,” Tommy whispered.

“Tommy, I have to warn you if you try to steal anything from us I won't hesitate to-“

”Fucking okay, Sam! I wasn’t planning on it.” Tommy snapped, before dragging a hand down his face.

“I'm sorry- please, don't tell anyone, Sam. No one.” Tommy stared him dead in the eyes, trying to be as intimidating as possible.

“If you do, I’ll never forgive you. Not for almost killing me, not for any of the shit you’ve done and will possibly do to me.” Tommy threatened, hoping he could manipulate him by using the guilt he felt for blowing him up.

Sam just nodded his head, looking away from Tommy as he turned the iPad off.

“I'm sorry.” Sams's voice was barely a whisper, he sounded on the verge of tears.

“Everything you said about Theseus- that was you.”

“Well of fucking course, Sam.” Tommy waved his hands around, exasperated.

“But here’s the thing: I left Theseus behind. He’s in the past, alright? I'm Tommy- not someone’s pet. I will never be anyone’s fucking pet ever again.” Tommy was getting off-topic, but he needed to say it aloud not only for himself but for Sam to hear.

“Tommy, I’m always here to talk to-“

”Can I go now, Sam?” Tommy asked quietly, and Sam nodded, the badge printing from somewhere. Sam tentatively handed him the badge. Tommy took it and looked at it, before putting it around his neck, noting how it said powerless.

“Thank you-“ Tommy said as he went to leave before he stopped.

“Sam, I want you to know I’m not mad at you for what you did that night.” Tommy paused, not looking back at Sam.

“It was pretty fucked up, but I am willing to leave it in the past if you are. See you around.” And Tommy left, to find Wilbur talking to the guy at the counter.

“Anyways- oh! Tommy! How did it go?” Wilbur asked as he joined him.

“Good- good, my picture looks like shit though.” Tommy lied as he held up his badge, frowning at it.

Wilbur patted him on the back with a laugh.

“It’s not that bad- you really are powerless, huh?” Wilbur said as he looked at his tag.

“Yeah, I am. What, you got something against the powerless?” Tommy asked, side-eyeing Wilbur as he huffed.

“What- of course not!” Wilbur shook his head.

“My favorite little brother is powerless, so of course I have nothing against them.” Wilbur smiled at him. Tommy felt his cheeks flush as he looked away. Wilbur had just called him his little brother-

“Let’s head up, I know Phil is eager to show you our floor,” Wilbur said as he skipped off to the elevator.

Tommy watched him for a second before following after him, forgetting about Sam for the moment.

They stepped into the elevator and Wilbur hit the button for floor 40.

“Phil has already got you your own office and shit. I’ll be training you!” Wilbur said excitedly.

“It’s not that hard, just filling out mission reports and filling them for us. I think Phil wants you to start up our Twitter account again. Oh- also, some of the heroes want to meet you too, so I wouldn’t be surprised if they just showed up out of nowhere.” Wilbur smiled at him as the door opened up.

Techno was sitting on a couch. He looked up as they came in, his eyes lingering on Tommy before he went back to his book.

Techno was always reading or some stupid English shit. Tommy looked around the floor: there was a lounge with a couch and kitchen, and then a hallway leading off to doors. There were pillows on the couches and a nice glass coffee table, along with a rug that had defiantly seen better days.

“This is the place, huh?” Tommy said as he scanned the room, before he looked back at Wilbur who had that stupid fucking smile on his face.

“Yup- I can show you your office.” Wilbur began walking down to the hall, as he passed Techno he messed up his hair before running off laughing.

“Hey- I didn't do anything!” Techno grumbled as he flattened his hair, glaring at Wilbur. Tommy snickered.

“Oh, trust me Techno, you have done plenty.” Tommy smiled at him as he jumped past him, catching up to Wilbur.

“Here’s your office!” Wilbur said as he opened the door, to a very plain-looking room. It had a desk on one wall, a chair, a computer, some empty shelves. At least it had a window overlooking the city.

“Wow. How amazing. Just my dream.” Tommy deadpanned.

“I always wanted to work for the hero tower. Just not as an intern.”

“Your getting paid!” Wilbur huffed.

“And wait- you want to be a hero?” Wilbur asked, curiosity shining in his eyes.

“Yeah. That used to be my dream, but it's impossible.” Tommy said as he kicked out a foot in front of him.

“I'm not really fit to be one, either.” Plus, the hero system was very corrupt. It was a naive dream he had when he was young and stupid. But it has never left him.

“Nonsense!” Wilbur said as he put a hand on his shoulder.

“I think you would be a great hero, with or without powers. Sam could always whip you up some cool gear and shit to help give you an advantage on the field- you’d need training, probably a lot of training… its not impossible.” Wilbur smiled warmly at him. Tommy scoffed.

“For one, Wil, I was trained to be an assassin, a killer. I could probably beat the shit out of you right now. And two, being a hero kind of sucks. If anything I think I’d go the vigilante route: no rules, no set patrol times, no legal issues. No paperwork either.”

“We’ll have to see about that- I agree with your second point. It does suck, but it's doing it the right way, so I can't agree with that. The paperwork is the worst- but, at least it's not illegal, like Theseus. Isn't it scary knowing he's out there, doing whatever he wants? He could be hurting people and no one will stop him- no one but us.” Wilbur sounded like he really believed that.

“Vigilantes are my worst enemy: but it's easy to catch them with my powers. All I have to do is say to turn themselves in and they do it.” Tommy blinked a couple of times. Yeah. He already fucking knows that.

“Hey, Wilbur?” Tommy decided he would ask why he hates Theseus so much. Maybe he could change Theseus in some way to make Wilbur like him more.

“Yeah?”

”Why do you hate Theseus so much?” He asked in a quiet voice, slightly scared of his answer. Wilbur frowned before scratching his neck.

“I wouldn’t say I hate him. I defiantly don’t like him- but he did something to you, Tommy. I have to figure out what.”

“He didn't do anything to me-“

”I don't believe that. Who knows- Theseus could have been the one that did all of this to you, and this could be some ploy to manipulate you again. I won't let it happen.”

“But Wilbur-“ Tommy tried to agure.

“Tommy- it's alright, really. Theseus won't hurt you anymore.” Wilbur smiled at him. Tommy felt his spirits drop. Wilbur wasn't letting him speak, and he wouldn’t even listen to what he had to say.

“Will you listen to me—?” Tommy tried but Wilbur just shushed him, not willing to listen to what he had to say.

“We can discuss Theseus another time, but right now it's time to get you settled in!” Wilbur moved on, jumping into the chair and turning on the computer. Tommy just stared at him, slightly dumbfounded.

Wilbur was like this sometimes, when he had his mindset one way, no one could change it. No one. It made Tommy a little mad he wouldn’t even listen to him explain how Theseus is a good guy- Theseus is good! Right?

“So this is how you…” Tommy zoned out as Wilbur explained the filing process, even showing him an example. Tommy occasionally nodded, pretending he was listening, but he wasn't actually there. Instead, he was just thinking of how to fix this problem- the problems he's in.

Sam was a big one.

Wilbur hating Theseus was an even bigger problem(really, Sam knowing he was Theseus is bigger). He had no solid ideas on how to change his mind.

Maybe he could save Wilbur? But how, it would have to be planned and that seemed too sketchy considering Wilbur could read emotions and intentions well.

Get him a gift? But what would Wilbur even want?

”Tommy? Have you been listening?” Wilbur asked as he waved a hand in front of his face. Tommy blinked a couple of times before looking at Wilbur.

“Of course I have, this is the most interesting thing in the whole world,” Tommy said sarcastically.

Wilbur huffed, crossing his arms.

“How about a break? It looks like you need one.” Wilbur stood up, stretching.

“How are you doing?” He asked suddenly.

“Huh?” Tommy blinked at Wilbur.

“How are you doing- like, with everything so far.”

“Oh… good, fine. The scan room was similar to the labs, but I can hardly remember what happened in there.” He shrugged.

“I'm always here to talk, Toms.” Wilbur reminded him, ruffling his hair. He had told him this about a million times. He knew Wilbur was there to talk to— he knew all of them were there. Phil, and Techno, Tubbo too…

“I know.” Tommy nodded, sick of hearing it all the time.

“Let’s go pester Phil.” Wilbur grinned as he ran out, slamming into the wall opposite before he called for Phil, making as much noise as possible.

“Phil- Phil! I need you!”

Phil came running out, looking slightly panicked, until his panic slowly turned into annoyance as he glared at Wilbur.

“What the fuck mate- oh, Tommy!”

“Heeey Phil, working hard or hardly working?”

”Oh, you know, just trying to keep this little shit out of trouble.” Phil shot Wilbur a look before laughing.

“Anyways, how does it seem, Tommy? Do you like it so far?” Phil asked.

“Uh… it's rather boring. Actually, it's really boring. But- I get to mess around with you guys all day and get paid, so I’ll take it.” Tommy shrugged. Phil nodded, an understanding look in his eyes.

“I’ll give you the account login for our Twitter, you can have fun with that. Just no personal info and shit like that. Remember, we want our public image to be good.” Phil told him, and Tommy nodded, brightening up.

“How do you use Twitter?” He asked and Wilbur laughed.

“Oh boy- I’ll show you.” Wilbur ruffled his hair, and Tommy unconsciously leaned into the touch, because of course he does. He hated how much he enjoyed physical touch, it was like he was almost desperate for it- he always felt embarrassed as fuck afterward.

“Uh… we have a visitor.” Called Technos voice and Tommy looked over his shoulder, his jaw dropping in surprise. Getting off the elevator was a hero with curly white hair bouncing each time she took a step, with the whole rainbow of colors in her hair. She wore black sunglasses and a captains hat, her signature look, along with a matching blue and white outfit. She had a sword at her belt, along with some tall ass black boots, and a long flowy blue jacket.

Captain Puffy.

Tommy was inwardly fangirling over her- the fucking captain herself was here? Well, it made sense, she did run the whole hero operation but it still was strange to see her! Puffy laughed as she got closer, sitting down at one of the couches in the lounge. Techno just looked behind at Wilbur Tommy and Phil, pleading with his red eyes for them to come over. Tommy stifled a laugh before he excitedly made his way over, jumping over the couch and sitting beside Techno.

“Captain Puffy? Is it really you?” Tommy asked awe-struck, leaning forwards towards her. She held her chin up high, crossing her legs so elegantly, a soft welcoming smile on her lips.

“The one and only.” She laughed, as Wilbur sat down beside Tommy, wrapping his arm around his shoulder while Phil walked over.

“Puffy, what brings you here?” He asked, Puffy’s eyes flickered to him then back at Tommy.

“I wanted to see your newest hire.” She smiled at him, and Tommy slightly shrunk back, not liking all the attention on him. Wilbur tightened his grip on him reassuringly.

“Isn't he just the best?” Wilbur said as he ruffled his hair and Techno snorted. Tommy batted his hand away, an angry look on his face. “Not the hair-!” Tommy said as he pouted, patting his hair back to the way he wanted it to be.

“I'm Puffy, it is very nice to meet you. I've heard so many good things about you.” She said fondly, while Tommy shot Wilbur a look. Wilbur shrugged, but there was a mischievous glint in his eyes.

“Oh yeah? I'm sure they were all great stories that I would have definitely approved of.” Tommy grumbled sarcastically, before looking back at Puffy, “Anyways- I'm Tommy. Pleasure to meet you.” He nodded his head at her, crossing his arms.

“I'm the biggest man ever, and the toughest, no matter what anyone told you. The bestest and strongest.” He gloated, grinning brightly at her. She smiled before her eyes trailed up to his hair, and Tommy inwardly sighed knowing what was about to come. She was going to ask why his hair was all white and shit and then Tommy would have to explain and ruin the mood and then she would pity him and he hated that-

“I like your hair.” She said instead, taking Tommy aback for a second. Tommy quirked an eyebrow, raising up his hand to mess with his hair.

“Thanks..?” He awkwardly said, and she smiled at him. Tommy liked her, he decided. Something about her was just… trustworthy. No wonder she was the leader of the heroes.

“I hope these three delinquents have been treating you well.” She shot every one of them a hard look, lingering on Wilbur for a while. Wilbur had an offended expression on his face.

“Why are you looking at me like that?” He said in a whiny voice, pulling Tommy closer to his side. Techno gave him the side look while Tommy snickered.

“Oh, Puffy, trust me, these two are fucking idiots. Phil, Phils great. He could do no wrong ever.” Tommy said as he jabbed Wilbur with his elbow. Wilbur let out a noise of surprise, before he started to ruffle his hair again while Tommy tried to escape his grip.

“Who are you calling an idiot?” Wilbur demanded as he tickled Tommy. Tommy let out a cry for help, reaching out for Techno desperately and dramatically but Techno just watched them with an unimpressed look while Phil sighed.

“Wilbur! Let me go-!” Tommy whined between his laughing, kicking and pushing Wilbur away but he could never escape from him.

“Boys,” Phil said in his dad-like tone, but Wilbur didn't stop until he had Tommy by his side again, holding the pouting boy tightly as he grumbled curses under his breath.

“Fuck you you fucking piece of shit,” Tommy said as he flipped him off. Wilbur only grinned, resting a hand on his head.

“I love you too brother.” Wilbur cooed at him. Tommy froze for a second, brother? He felt his face flush and he looked away, hearing Wilbur laugh. “Shut up.” He hissed under his breath, a warm feeling spreading through his chest. Wilbur thought of him as a brother…

“You two sure act like kids.” Puffy mused, while Phil just shook his head. “They’re both little shits when it comes down to it.” Puffy laughed at that.

“I'm glad your fitting in so well here. If you ever have any problems feel free to talk to me.” She said as she stood up, holding out her hand to him. Tommy stared at her hand for a second before reaching out his own and shaking hers.

“Will do!” Tommy said cheerfully, while she smiled down at him.

“Wilbur, play nice,” Puffy warned as she looked at him, a knowing look in her eyes. Wilbur just smiled innocently at her.

“What? I'm the nicest person here!”

”Bullshit!” Tommy burst out laughing, as Puffy glanced at their laughing forms one last time before she talked to Phil then left.

“You guys scared her off,” Techno said as he picked up his book again, fixing them with an intense stare. Phil sat down on the edge of the couch, his wings fluffing out behind him as he smiled at the three of them bickering.

Chapter Text

“Hey, my favorite purple-themed vigilante,” Tommy said as he landed smoothly on the ground, his wings flaring out as he stared at Purpled who was leaning against the wall, one leg propped out.

Purpled gave him a side-eyed look as Tommy grinned at him, standing up.

“What illegal business we doing tonight? A drug deal, illegal tech, or- information?” Tommy raised an eyebrow and Purpled pushed himself off the wall to face Tommy.

“I wasn't expecting to see you so soon again.” He said. That was all? Tommy was trying to get a reaction out of him- but Purpled was like a stone wall, plain, boring, and cold.

“Well, here I am!” Tommy smiled brightly at him.

“Are you happy I came to say hi?”

“Not really. If anything, your kind of annoying.” Purpled gave him a flat look.

”That adds to the charm of me.”

“Something.” Purpled scoffed, and Tommy smiled even more.

“I was thinking about our little duel the other day-“

“And how you were beaten by me, in a little under two minutes.” Purpled cut him off, recalling the event with a tilt of his head.

“Ah- yes, that one. I want a rematch.” Tommy cracked his neck, getting ready for the upcoming fight.

“A rematch? You think your going to win?”

”Of course I am- I am big man Theseus, the strongest and most agile of them all.” Tommy’s wings retreated into his back, as he waited for Purpled’s answer. Purpled stared at him for a long moment before shifting into a fighting stance. Tommy grinned.

“Let’s play show rules: no killing blows, no deep cuts, whoever is pinned for three seconds loses.” Tommy nodded at him, as they began circling each other.

“Show rules?” Purpled asked.

“That's what we called it back in the Hunters-“ Purpled lunged at him as he explained, Tommy just narrowly dodging his attack. Purpled managed to kick him as Tommy jumped back out of the way. Purpled was back on him in an instant, throwing punches, Tommy blocked a few and kicked out at Purpled, but he dodged it.

Tommy rolled to the side, drawing a blade as he jumped back up, and Purpled had done the same. They circled each other again, breathing heavily, before Tommy took the first move. He lunged at Purpled, quickly landing a kick on him and a punch to his stomach, as he blocked his knife with his dagger.

Purpled barely reacted as he slashed his dagger, nicking his arm, landing a punch on his face. Tommy jumped back, but Purpled tripped him with his leg, and Tommy was falling to the ground. He twisted around so he was on his back as he landed, kicking out his legs, throwing Purpled back.

As he jumped up, he felt an overwhelming fear settle around him, like some kind of pressure, and in a dizzy haze he was on his knees, his dagger falling out of his hands from how badly he was shaking. His eyes were all fuzzy, and his body felt numb, all he knew was fear. He felt like he was going to be sick as he tried to bring a hand up to his head, trying to make sense out of any of this but his thoughts were all jumbled and twisted.

In the darkness of the night, he saw red glowing eyes approaching them, making him even more terrified. Out from the shadows stepped a man with pink braided hair hanging limply on his shoulder, a skull-like mask on his face, a golden armored chest plate, a red cape flowing out behind him, tall boots and more golden amour decorating him.

An axe was in his hands as The Blade stepped towards them, his boots clicking on the concrete, echoing down the alleyway towards them.

He shakily put a hand on the ground, trying to push himself up, willing himself to fight the fear that wracked his body. He managed to start to shakily stand up before the Blade- Techno? Was lifting him up by his collar, tossing him behind him like a bag of trash.

Tommy hit the floor hard, his shoulder hitting it first then his side. The foggy fear lifted from him, and he was up in an instant ignoring the way his body ached as his wings sprouted out from his back, ready to flee from here.

“Stay right there, Theseus.” The Blade ordered him- and oh fuck, he can’t disobey Techno. Tommy froze, his wings settling neatly behind his back as he watched Techno’s back, how did he know—

“What was happening between you two, huh?” Techno asked, pointing his axe at Purpled who was still on the ground, visibly shaking. He looked so young and scared in that moment, and Tommy wondered just how old Purpled was, as he stared wide-eyed at Techno.

“Why were you fighting? Your lucky I don’t turn you both in right now.”

“U-uh, Blade, sir, you’ve got it wrong,” Tommy said quietly, not sure how loud he was allowed to be right now.

“Me and- and Purpled were just having a friendly duel.” Tommy stuttered out, keeping his voice small and quiet, uncertain of how Techno will react.

“S-sorry.” He mumbled afterward, before he realized he broke another fucking rule. Why was he so bad at this-

Techno turned to look at him, and Tommy could not tell what his reaction was. Actually, Techno’s mask was giving him Dream vibes, and he did not like it. Tommy just stayed quiet, waiting for another order as he shrunk under Techno’s intense gaze.

But he escaped that- that mess of a place, he was free. So why did it feel so… right to fall back into old habits?

Dream really fucked him up.

“Theseus, let's go. You,” Techno turned back to Purpled, “will not say a word to anyone that this happened, or next time I will turn you in.” Techno threatened as he let Purpled go from whatever the fuck he could do.

Purpled jumped up, all frazzled, as he stared at Tommy for a couple of beats before taking off up the walls, along a pipe like a raccoon.

And he was gone. Tommy didn’t even look at Techno as he turned back to him. Techno was walking towards him, before he grabbed Tommy’s shoulders and shook him, gently, but it still scared Tommy.

“Snap out of it, will you?” Techno said, his voice more to the voice Tommy knew best. Tommy looked up at him before he went to dart to the side, but Techno grabbed him and pulled him back.

“Tommy-“ Techno said and Tommy froze, stiffening up.

“Let me go-“ He growled out, going to hit Techno’s arm but he pulled his arm back. Tommy stumbled forwards before he caught himself, glaring at Techno. Tommy was panting, something inside of him was bending, close to snapping- he felt everything he knew and the rules were all just… wrong. He was confused, overwhelmed- Techno was supposed to be like Dream but he wasn’t and it was all just too much!

Techno didn’t enforce anything, of course he wouldn’t- he was shaking now, his hands and legs and just his whole body.

“Tommy-“ Techno tried again but Tommy shot him a withering look that silenced him, curling in towards himself more for any semblance of comfort.

“Techno- I, I just, you don’t- your not anything like him, or them.” Tommy stuttered out, cringing slightly at how much his voice shook. Why was this bothering him still?

“Like who? Dream?” Techno guessed. Tommy perked up immediately- and he hated himself for that.

“Yes! Dream- oh I miss him so much- you are terrible at this.” Tommy said, snapping the last part. Maybe he was just confused.

“Why can’t you be more like Dream?” Tommy asked quietly, genuinely curious of what his answer would be. Techno just stood there, looking stupid as fuck as he shifted awkwardly on his feet.

“You’ve made a good start, the mask reminds me of him.” Tommy nodded. He felt like he was losing himself a little bit here.

“I- what?” Techno sputtered out.

“The mask, it reminds me of his. Techno, you aren’t very good at this-“

”Tommy, what the fuck are you talking about?” Techno took a step towards him, his voice a dangerous tone, and Tommy shrunk away, his wings tucking tighter against his back as he stared at Techno.

“I'm not your trainer- I never will be, or was. I don’t want to be anything like Dream, ever. He abused you, manipulated you, he fucked with your head- it still shows. How can I get you to understand that?” Techno sounded angry and disappointed as he shook his head, his red eyes never leaving his.

“When will you understand?” Techno asked in a smaller voice. Tommy looked down at his feet. He couldn't just break all of it- he was still waiting for a punishment for acting out.

He really was fucked up, wasn't he?

”I don’t think I will ever be able to escape him, Techno. I can’t- I’d die for Dream if he wanted me to.” Tommy took in a shaky breath.

“I just need time. A lot of time.” Tommy quietly added.

“Than take as long as you need, Tommy, but I will be pushing you to escape whatever Dream has imprisoned you in,” Techno said, and Tommy knew he was just trying to be helpful, he was just trying to get him out of whatever was going on as soon as possible.

Tommy appreciated it, he really did, but, he didn't think it would help anymore. When Techno said he wasn't his trainer, he was just left confused and alone. He needed someone to lead him, someone to make the right choices for him: but not all of his choices, he enjoyed deciding which shirt to wear for the day, or picking which game to play for game night.

Anyways, he just didn’t like it, one bit.

“Dream is evil, a villain, please tell me you understand that?”

“Techno, in the future can you not interrupt my fights? Unless I’m obviously losing- which never happens, but on the off chance it does, go ahead. Otherwise, please stay out of them.” Tommy rambled on, changing the subject, and Techno just gave him a flat look.

“Do you understand?” Techno repeated.

“I- yeah, I understand.” Tommy nodded, lying. Dream was not evil- maybe he was a little mean sometimes, no- no, Dream was evil.

“Somehow I don’t believe you.” Techno shook his head. Tommy looked up at Techno, his eyes wavering slighlty. He had a lot he needed to figure out on his own- Techno wasn’t helping.

“Can I go?” Tommy asked, he didn’t like the way this conversation was going, anyways he wanted to do some more patrolling. Techno stared at him, and Tommy sighed before taking a couple of steps away. He didn’t need Technos permission-

“Wait,” Techno said and Tommy stopped as he looked back at him, planting his feet as he waited for Techno to continue.

“I want to go with you,” Techno said, a little awkwardly, his red eyes darting back and forth.

“You mean… patrol with me?” Tommy asked and Techno nodded. Tommy stared at him for a hot moment. The all-mighty Blade wanted to patrol with him?

”Fine, but, you have to call me something other than Theseus or Tommy.” He said as he crossed his arms, he hoped Techno wouldn’t ask for an explanation. Techno titled his head.

“Alright… how about Red?” Techno suggested. Tommy smiled. Red. He liked that.

“Sure, it doesn’t suck ass. Actually, it's pretty fucking cool. Red, the greatest vigilante there ever was.” Tommy smiled as he waved his hands in front of him, staring off into space for a moment.

He actually really liked Red, for whatever reason. Red was his favorite color, and the main color in his suit and wings. It was perfect, easy to say, short, and not a mouthful.

“Come along, my lovely sidekick, we have a long night ahead of us,” Tommy grinned as he jumped up, his wings propelling him up to the roof. He landed on the edge of the roof, scanning his surroundings. He saw no one, which was good, encountering another hero would not be ideal right now.

Techno joined him pretty quickly. He was very agile and strong, as he hauled himself up the side of the building, using the fire escapes and ledges.

“Hm, Blade, where shou thout go?” Tommy asked before he visibly flinched when Tubbo’s voice came shouting in his hear.

“Tommy!” Tubbo shouted and Tommy brought a hand up to his ear, wincing, earning him a weird look from Techno.

“Fuck- what is it Tubbo?” Tommy asked, a little annoyed, but Tubbo continued on.

“I've just got an anonymous report that something is going on in City Hall. I want you to check it out.” Tubbo said, obviously worried about it, and Tommy groaned.

“But Tubbo- that’s so far away, and it's by the hero tower- that’s super dangerous!” Tommy whined. He did not think it was a good idea.

“Can you report it to the heroes? Why do I need to check it out?”

”I already have, idiot, but they haven’t sent anyone out, and it's been an hour so far. They aren’t taking it serious. I'm hacking into the cameras now so I can watch.” Tubbo was typing away on his keyboards as he talked.

“I don't think this is a good idea.” Tommy voiced his worries, being serious now. The last thing he wanted was to get caught by some hero, or Specter. Fuck, that gave him shivers down his back.

“I don't want to-“

”Please, Tommy.” Tubbo cut him off, his voice smaller this time.

“Whatever is happening there is not good. They could be potentially hurting a lot of people. There’s that meeting tomorrow as well, with the heroes?” Tubbo reminded him, convincing him. All of the SBI would be there tomorrow, not to mention a lot of other heroes.

He glanced at Techno before pressing on the earpiece again.

“Okay, I’ll go.” Tommy gave in, anxiety boiling up in his stomach. He did not want to encounter Wilbur out on patrol- or any of the heroes in fact. Expect Techno, Techno was pretty chill.

“But, Techno is with me. So…”

”Techno’s with you?!” Came Tubbo’s voice, shouting again.

“Yes- no need to shout! Damn!” Tommy cursed, a headache starting to brew as he grumbled more profanities before turning to Techno.

“Techno- we're going to City Hall. Apparently some shit is going down and Tubso wants us to check it out.” Tommy nodded, as he pulled his hood down further over his head, looking for the direction to go in.

“I need more details, Tommy.”

“Ah- uh—“

”Yes, thank you so much, I understand everything perfectly.” Techno deadpanned.

“Fuck off- there was reports of people doing some shady shit at City Hall. Our job is to step in and stop what’s happening-“ An explosion rocked the buildings, car alarms going off, a blast of light and then smoke following it.

Tommy perched down lowly, his wings spread out to balance him better, Techno immediately getting prepared for a fight. Down the block was a crumbling building, smoke filling the streets, and the roar of a collapsing building vibrating the ground.

Tommy glanced at Techno before jumping to the ledge, pressing against the earpiece.

“Tubbo, City hall will have to wait,” Tommy said before he dove, flying off quickly towards the explosion, Techno making his way to the explosion as well.

Smoke was billowing up into the sky, flames flickering at broken concrete pieces and wood. People were running away from the collapsed building, congregating on the streets, crying, screaming. Tommy ignored them for the moment, as he perched on a building nearby.

He was scanning everything that had happened here: an apartment building had been bombed, collapsed, most likely to kill someone inside. It was on the end of a block, on the corner. People were running and screaming away from the destruction, smoke clouds still rolling through the streets and tinting the air. A big fire was beginning to take root in the ruins, eating at anything it could get at.

Tommy tucked his wings closer to himself, searching for who was responsible. He knew the person was still here. A feeling of dread was starting to fill his stomach as he scanned everything, searching the crowd for anything suspicious until he cast a glance behind him just as a shadowy figure appeared over the edge.

Tommy whipped around, pulling out a knife, his wings bristling as he eyed up his new attacker. They were in all black, with a hood and a full face mask, but it was black and had nothing on it. What caught his eye was the circle with a line through it on the hood. Tommy immediately tensed up, Eret flashing through his head.

He unconsciously flipped his wrist with Eret’s symbol branded on it as he carefully watched this new figure. They both seemed to eye each other up, knowing the other was more than capable of holding up in a fight.

He was only a little surprised it took the Hunters this long to come after him.

They spoke first, their voice was very distorted, obviously using a voice changer. “It's been a long while, Theseus.” Tommy stiffened up at the mention of his… old name.

“I go by Tommy.” He snapped, hating the way he slightly shook. The man only hummed.

“Everyone has missed you.”

“I don’t miss any of you.” He fired back, he would not be manipulated by them anymore- he was free, and was determined to stay free.

“What about your old trainer, Dream?” They asked innocently. Tommy froze, his breathing quickening as he tried to play it off.

“I-I don’t care about him.” He tried to put in all his fire and hate but it just ended up sounding lackluster, and he inwardly cringed at himself.

“You don't sound so sure about that.” The man mused, taking a step towards him.

“You just left Dream, your trainer- your only friend. You left him for dead.” They were getting closer with each breath. Tommy was shaking- he didn't leave Dream- did he?

“I never left him-“

”Yes you did! You left him with Eret.” His words sent chills down his back, as fear started to sprout in his stomach.

“T-there’s nothing I could have done about that-“ He was getting closer, almost an arms length away now. Tommy didn't seem to realize the danger he was putting himself in as his mind was a whirlwind of emotions.

“You could have come back and played pet.” They spat, hate and anger filling their tone and Tommy shrinked away from him.

“I'm no one's pet.” He said quietly, his voice shaking as he watched the man, his breathing fast as he inched towards the ledge. They hummed thoughtfully.

“Your right. Eret doesn’t own you anymore, but Dream wants you back.” They took another step towards him, Tommy’s leg slipping off the edge of the building and suddenly the man in black had grabbed him by the collar of his suit.

“Dream won't treat you like a pet. He never has or will.” They leaned in closer, the black mask staring back at him.

“City hall tomorrow, at noon. Be there, Theseus.” It was an order if Tommy ever heard one. Tommy’s mind was reeling, he was shaking so badly, uncontrollably, Dream wanted him back and whatever Dream wanted he would get-

“Hey, Tommy, how was your sleepover?” Wilbur asked as Tommy walked in through the door, exhaustion wearing him down. He had been at Tubbos and patrolled all night. Wilbur had an amused look on his face and Tommy wanted to throw his bag at him, but refrained from doing so. Instead, he flipped him off. Wilbur shot him a look.

“Oh my, is the grumpy teenager only on two hours of sleep? Techno, I think we-“ Tommy was tackling Wilbur with a disgruntled battle cry.

“You piece of shit- I actually got three hours of sleep, thank you very much!” Tommy said as he kicked Wilbur off the couch, stealing his warm spot.

“Oi you bitch! You can't just steal my spot!”

“Just did, bitch!” Tommy stuck his tongue out at Wilbur, who was still on the floor.

“Phil!” Wilbur called like the fucking child he was.

“Phil- Wilbur is being mean to me!” Tommy yelled as well. He heard a sigh from the other room.

“Boys, play nice.” Both Wilbur and Tommy burst out laughing as Wilbur tried to pull him off of the couch, eventually Tommy just gave up and ended up sitting on Wilbur's ridiculously long legs that took up the rest of the couch.

“Move,” Wilbur said, shifting his legs underneath Tommy who was already reclining backward.

“Make me, bitch.” Tommy smirked at him, before Wilbur threw a pillow and hit him square in the face.

No. He would not be bullied by this piece of shit. He had a family- people who wanted him. Dream only wanted to use him, right? He had Wilbur, Phil, and Techno. His best friend Tubbo and Ranboo who he was warming up to. He had people now- he was even starting his life again! He would not let Dream or the Hunters run that for him.

“For one, bitch, my name is Tommy.” He spat as he grabbed their arm, twisting it. He caught them by surprise, probably because they thought he was going to be scared shitless.

He was, but he was angry right now.

He kicked out their feet, his wings flaring as he caught himself before he fell too far, landing on the ledge, his dagger back in his hand.

“And for two, fuck you and fuck Dream and fuck the Hunters. I'm never going back to you manipulative bastards- and I’ll never be any of your pets again!” He spat with all of his anger and resentment towards the Hunters- and Dream. And… Dream. Yeah, he hated that green fucking bastard.

And for the final insult to injury, he flipped him off- with both hands, before falling backward off the building, flipping around in the air and taking off, not even sparing a glance behind him.

He landed on a building closer to the collapsed one. He still had to deal with this. Pushing away what just happened, leaving it for his future self, Tommy scanned everything that was going on. The Blade was helping trapped people in the rubble, a few others helping move concrete, ambulances and police on the scene now.

He heard flapping and looked up as the Angel landed bedsides him, not too close, which he appreciated. He was still shaking slightly and didn't have an excuse as to why.

“Theseus-“ Phil began but Tommy cut him off.

“Phil-“ He said, forgetting for a second The Angel had told him his name was Phil to Theseus- he just about had a heart attack.

“I, uh, Sirens not around, yeah?” He asked, coughing awkwardly. If he was, he would probably leave. Phil gave him a sympathetic and guilty look.

“No, he's not patrolling tonight.” Tommy let out a sigh of relief before turning back to the chaos below him.

“Than I’ll help.” He made sure to deepen his voice, wouldn’t want Phil putting too many things together.

“Good idea, the more the merrier.” Phil sighed as he joined him by the edge.

“What happened?” Tommy asked, wondering if Phil knew anything.

“An explosion from the base of the building. We don’t know the motive yet.” Tommy paused before looking at Phil. Should he tell him…? Phil would be mad if he didn't tell him. He should tell him.

“I… found the guy who did it,” Tommy said quietly, while Phil perked up at that.

“Where is he?” Phil asked, ready to take off in that moment. Tommy nonchalantly brought his hand up to pull his hood further down.

“The guy was from… the Hunters.” Phil immediately tensed up, reaching out for Tommy as he wrapped his wings protectively around him, pulling him closer. Tommy didn’t mind- actually, he was glad Phil was comforting him. It’s been a long fucking night and it’s only just begun.

“Where is he?” Phil asked, a dark look glazing over his eyes. Tommy looked up at him, a warm feeling growing in his chest that he couldn’t quite explain.

“I… well, I said fuck you to him and left, so I don't know.” Tommy shrugged. Phil just stared at him, something proud stirring up in his eyes.

“I want you to stay by my side, okay mate?” Phil said as he scanned all the surroundings. Tommy smiled.

“Alright, if it will ease your mind, then sure,” Tommy said as Phil let go of him. Phil gave him a long look before nodding and looking back down at the rubble.

“Stay close to me, I want to get out as many people as possible.” And that’s how he and Phil spent most of the night lifting concrete or flying people to ambulances(mostly Phil did that), with Techno coming over to help move bigger pieces and get at one person who was miraculously still alive underneath all of that.

The police did want to question and take him in after everything died down, but Phil told him to fly off before they could get the chance.

Tommy couldn’t sleep at all that night when he eventually returned back to the apartment. Neither could Ranboo apparently.

Tommy’s eyes snapped open as he heard a door creak, the door to Tubbo’s and Ranboo’s room opening.

He was tensed, ready for anything- you could never be too careful. Especially with Dream looking for him.

But it was only Ranboo, with his glazed-over eyes, as he slowly walked out of the dark room. Tommy sat Henry aside on the coffee table as he sat up, sighing.

Ranboo was sleepwalking again. He watched him for a moment, as he walked around the small living room before going to the kitchen.

Tommy slowly got up, his joints popping as he stretched out his aching limbs, his eyes flickering over to where Ranboo had frozen, his very much open and awake eyes meeting Tommys.

“Sorry-“ Ranboo began quietly, turning to leave, but Tommy stopped him, “Wait.” He said, watching Ranboo freeze, ignoring his own surprise that flashed through him for a moment. Ranboo turned back to him, looking at him sheepishly.

Tommy glanced down at his feet, before he looked back up at Ranboo. It was obvious something was bothering him. “Hey, Boo, wanna just hang with me?” Tommy asked, sitting back down on the couch. He knew he wouldn’t get any sleep, not from the paranoia creeping through his veins, might as well not be alone.

Ranboo blinked at him for a moment, before he nodded and slowly walked over to him, trying his best not to make any noise. Ranboo sat down with a little huff, sinking into the old couch. Tommy wasn't going to ask Ranboo what was bothering him unless Ranboo decided to talk about it first. So, he decided he would distract him from the messy and tragic thoughts he saw flashing through his eyes.

“Have I ever told you about the ice cream incident?” Tommy asked, breaking the silence, struggling to hold back his smile at the memory. Ranboo flinched, blinking away the fog before he looked at Tommy, shaking his head. Tommy smiled, leaning back into the couch as he began with his story, remembering to keep his voice quieter for Tubbo’s sake.

He began with how Tubbo had bought an ice cream and dropped it on the ground on accident. He went back to the ice cream man with tears in his eyes, telling him what happened. The man was so nice about it that he gave Tubbo another scoop, but then he and Tommy got into a petty argument and Tommy shoved Tubbo, making him drop his ice cream again. Tubbo returned, making Tommy explain what happened that time, and he got another ice cream. Tubbo dropped it again, out of his own stupidity, and returned a third time. Tubbo was really on a streak of bad luck. The ice cream man was starting to get suspicious but Tubbo’s tears were convincing, so he got one more. Tubbo took one bite before he ran into a poll, the ice cream squished all across his face and Tommy laughing historically.

Tommy pretended to ignore the way Ranboo leaned in closer to him as he talked, inching closer and closer to Tommy as he continued talking about Tubbo and his dumbness.

Tubbo decided to try his luck one last time with the ice cream man, but the man shouted at him for scamming him and slammed the metal cage in their faces. Tubbo started crying again, while Tommy hid his snickers. Tubbo had gone through four ice creams and only got one bite out of all of them. Tubbo had complained about it for days after, and thus making Tommy all whiny too. So Tommy did the only thing he could, he gave Tubbo another ice cream and made him drop it. Tubbo was so heartbroken and betrayed, and tried to get back at Tommy. It started this whole ice-cream war. Long story short, after many wasted ice creams and messes they would have to clean up, Tommy won.

He had Ranboo smiling by the end of his extravagant story he may or may not have exaggerated in some places and was even laughing a little bit at the end, whatever had been bothering him pushed aside for the moment. Tommy quirked an eyebrow at him, grinning at Ranboo.

“You got any funny stories about Tubbo? And by funny I mean potential blackmail or something embarrassing.” Tommy leaned in close to Ranboo, his blue eyes sparkling mischievously in the dark. Ranboo hummed thoughtfully before his eyes brightened up.

“Oh! This one time Tubbo had cracked some important clue or something and got so excited he fell out of his chair and hit his head, almost taking down his whole set up with him.” Ranboo reminisced with a smile, “I think he may have gotten a concussion or something… but! He’s fine, his ego may be a bit hurt if anything.”

Tommy laughed, glancing at the door to Tubbo’s room. “That sounds like something he’d do. If only it was on video.”

“If only.” Ranboo agreed before they both fell into a comfortable silence. Tommy lounged further back against the couch, shutting his eyes for a moment, but all that greeted him was the shadowed Hunter who came for him. Lunging for him- their hand reaching for him, his wings- Tommy jolted, his eyes flashing open.

The peaceful and calm atmosphere he had created was gone in an instant. Tommy was lost for a moment, in his own head, and only when Ranboo placed a delicate hand on his shoulder did he snap out of it.

How the tables have turned.

Tommy flinched, as Ranboo pulled away from him like he just bit him. His eyes were wide in concern, as he watched Tommy for a moment.

“Tommy?” Ranboo asked, softly, like he was some scared animal. Tommy shook his head, running a hand through his messy hair. Tommy stared down at his feet, feeling the same panic he felt when he faced the masked figure.

Fuck- what was going to happen tomorrow? All of his worries came flooding back to him, his half-hatched plans, the fear of any of his family- friends getting hurt. He couldn't- and wouldn’t let any of them get hurt, not if he could prevent it. And if that meant throwing himself back into the den of lions then so be it.

The Hunters wouldn’t be merciful. So neither could he. He told himself, clenching his fist- if it came down to it, could he kill one of them?

Could he kill Dream?

He could feel blood on his hands, warm and sticky, dripping through his fingers, the thick liquid staining his clothes- but he couldn't tell if it was his own or Dreams.

“Tommy..?” Ranboo asked again, a slight panic to his tone. Ranboo had no idea what was happening or what to do. Tommy blinked, before looking over at him.

“I'm fine- I’ll be fine.” He smiled at him, but upon seeing Ranboo’s disbelieving face his smile faltered.

“Just, ya know, life?” Tommy shrugged, hoping to reassure Ranboo a little bit, but it didn't work. Fuck, he was supposed to be helping Ranboo out with whatever the fuck was going on with him- not the other way around.

“Yeah…” Ranboo glanced away, his fingers fiddling with the hem of his shirt. “I don’t think your fine.” He said suddenly, looking back at Tommy.

Tommy was taken aback for a moment, unsure of how to respond to that- he most definitely wasn't fine but fuck, hearing someone else say it was something else. A real punch to the gut.

“I- uh, I’m…” Tommy stuttered, looking away from Ranboo’s gaze. He couldn't handle to look into his kind eyes, which ran deep with genuine concern for him. Tommy felt his hands start to shake, and oh fuck, that can’t be a good sign?

Hah, sign. Fucking signs.

“Your right.” He said slowly, not meeting Ranboo’s gaze. “But there’s nothing anyone can do about it.” He breathed out, this was his problem, and his problem alone. He would not drag anyone down with him- unless it was one of the Hunters. He would gladly bring them down with him.

“That's not true,” Ranboo said, sounding so close but yet everything seemed so far away, out of his control. Tommy glanced at him quickly, feeling tears stinging his eyes.

“You have me and Tubbo, Wilbur and Phil and… Techno, who would all drop what we’re doing to come and help you.” Ranboo began, not mentioning the way Tommy was slowly breaking down.

“We’re all— here for you, you know? We’ll all help you in any way we can… no-no matter how small or tedious it may be.” Ranboo continued on, “Even if it's just a shoulder to cry on or someone to tell your feelings to, we’ll be right here.” His eyes landed on Tommy again, just as a stray tear fell down his face. Tommy quickly wiped it away, stifling his crying as he looked away from Ranboo, unable to handle it.

It was all too much.

He hated crying in front of others, absolutely hated it. It was a weakness he was trained to never do, even if he was in pain or dying or anything- so why the fuck was he crying? Was he going soft?

Was this what it felt like to be human? A traitorous thought piped up. He sure felt human, but was his head just so fucked up he never realized the true extent of it?

He brushed those thoughts aside for another day, right now he just wants to stop crying.

“You don’t understand…” Tommy hiccuped, hiding his face in his hands as more tears streamed down his face.

“I think out of everyone here I would understand the best,” Ranboo said softly, a gentle reminder that he too was also a victim of the Hunters. Tommy froze, peering through his fingers at Ranboo. His face had a pained look on it, as if he knew exactly what Tommy was going through.

Maybe he did, for fucks sake. Did one of the Hunters come to visit him too? Oh fuck- did Tommy give away Ranboo’s second chance?

“They didn't come here—?“ Tommy asked suddenly, grabbing Ranboo’s hand frantically, feeling panic start to rise up in his chest. This was a silly fear of him- certainly Ranboo would have told him if they came?

“What? Oh- no, no!” Ranboo said quickly, his eyes going wide. Tommy visibly relaxed, slumping down into the couch with relief.

“Thank god.” Tommy breathed out, before he froze again. If the Hunters were aware of Tommy being here, then he shouldn’t come here anymore just in case he was to be followed. It was too risky.

“One of them found you..?” Ranboo guessed, and with a small nod from Tommy Ranboo let out a pained noise.

“They told me to be at the city hall at noon, tomorrow.” Tommy shivered, curling in on himself as he remembered the messy interaction.

“Something bad is going to happen… and- and I have to find a way to prevent it.” Tommy fumbled with his words. If Eret was there he would be dead. Eret had promised that they would rip off his wings if he ever betrayed the Hunters- and guess what, Tommy fucking betrayed them and Eret never forgets a promise.

“We’ll help you,” Ranboo said suddenly, a little unsure. “This is as much a fight yours as it is mine and Tubbo’s.”

Tommy set his puffy blue eyes on Ranboo, seeing the resolve settled in Ranboo’s eyes and determination there. But he also saw Ranboo and Tubbo living in this shitty ass apartment, working dead-end jobs but also happy and free and safe. Safe from Tommy, from Dream, from the Hunters.

He couldn't let him loose that. Regret instantly filled him for telling Ranboo what he knew- now Ranboo and Tubbo would put themselves into danger for him—

“Tommy, your not doing this alone.” Ranboo broke him out of his spiraling thoughts, smiling at him. Tommy only felt more guilty, curling in further on himself.

“Ranboo— you can’t risk it! You got a second chance- you can't just throw it away for me!” Tommy wished he sounded more angry and furious than what he actually did, as he stared at Ranboo with a frantic look in his eyes. But Ranboo was calm, tranquil, his eyes soft and full of emotion.

“Tommy, you deserve a second chance too, and I’m going to help you every step of the way,” Ranboo promised, tentatively reaching for his hand, and grabbing it gently, stopping his shaking.

“I’m not worried about them finding me, if they wanted me back they would have come a long time ago.” He shrugged, as more tears slid down Tommy's face. Tommy held onto Ranboo’s hand tightly, like he was a lifeline, turning his words over in his head.

“We both have our struggles… b-but, we can get through them together.” Ranboo smiled at him, squeezing his hand. “If Tubbo taught me one thing it would be not to go through it alone.”

”So, we won’t. And if you try to then I’ll just come and find you.” Ranboo nodded at him, sort of like a threat, his face brightening as Tommy smiled. Tommy didn't like that idea, of putting Ranboo or Tubbo in danger, but he didn’t want to go through this alone.

It was selfish of him, he knows, but could he really stop Ranboo or Tubbo? Tubbo had been fucking searching for him all over illegal networks and shit, and Ranboo… was Ranboo, a person he didn't really know but every day he gets a little bit closer with.

And right now, he feels like he’s known Ranboo for as long as he’s known Tubbo. Maybe he wasn't too bad of a guy.

“Okay.” Was all Tommy managed to say, as he sniffled, not able to trust his voice right now. Ranboo smiled at him, squeezing his hand again.

“We’ll get through this, together,” Ranboo said softly. Tommy closed his eyes, taking in a deep shaky breath. He wished nothing more than to just believe Ranboo and forget all his worries and live a normal life, quitting as a vigilante and retiring forever and putting his past in the past.

But the world was cruel, and so was reality. Tommy knew that was never going to happen, no matter how desperately he wished for it to become true.

Not until he did something about it. Not until every single one of them were dead.

Chapter Text

Tommy idly spun around in his chair, his eyes unfocused on everything as he thought.

The Hunters were planning something, something big. Tommy was supposed to be apart of whatever it was- he really didn’t want to be, but he had no choice. All of the SBI were down there, at city hall, getting ready for the event today, along with all the heroes.

Tommy’s eyes snapped to the clock on the wall that was counting every second with a tick, consistently, always ticking. It was only ten-thirty. He felt like he had checked that damn clock a million times today.

He stopped himself from spinning in his wheely-chair, rolling his chair back to his desk. He was at the hero tower, on his floor, all alone. He had declined their offers to join them at city hall, saying he needed to catch up on some work. A great excuse, if you asked him, one of his best of all times(not really, but he likes to believe it was).

He tapped his finger anxiously on his desk, looking over the papers resting on it. He had a bad feeling in his gut, just like the night when he had first been taken. The Hunters weren’t going to back down until they got what they wanted, and if Dream was looking for him then it would be even worse.

He would be completely screwed, with no chance of escape. Dream was on a whole other level then the others.

He grabbed his pencil sitting at his desk and began to chew on it, a nervous habit for sure, staring off into space again. He couldn’t work even if he had a whole stack of papers piling up on his desk. His mind was focused on one thing only, and his whole body was shaky with anticipation of what is to happen, his nerves running wild with each passing moment.

Ranboo and Tubbo had told him not to go. They begged him not to. Tommy lied. He told them he wouldn’t. He just couldn’t have them there, if one of them got hurt he could never forgive himself. He felt a little guilty, sure, but it was for the greater good.

He glanced at his bag with his suit in it, tapping his pencil on his desk. Heroes would be crawling around the whole place, surely no one would be able to touch him, right? The Hunters can’t fight off all the heroes.

He should be fine.

He looked back at the clock, it was almost eleven now. He decided he would go, find a good spot to overlook the whole thing and hide in wait.

He jumped up, feeling all jittery with nerves as he grabbed his bag and left his office, stepping out into the empty and dark hall. He felt as if the shadows were stalking him, watching his every move with thirsty eyes as they waited for the right moment to strike. He wished Techno was here.

He made his way to the elevator and out into the streets, waving to the front people as he left. He walked along the sidewalks towards city hall, pulling up his hood around his head. It was comforting, hiding behind his hood, almost like his own little world safe from everything around him. Plus he got a lot of strange looks because of his white and blonde hair.

He made his way into an alley way, ducking behind some dumpsters as he quickly changed into his Theseus outfit, keeping his wings hidden away for now as he climbed up the side of the building, using pipes and bricks that were sticking out to get to the top.

It was broad daylight out, with no shadows to hide away in. He carefully made his way along the rooftops, keeping low to the ground and hiding behind electrical boxes and what not, hiding whenever a shadow passed over him.

City hall was just a couple of buildings over, with a small courtyard out front where their event was going to happen. Tommy already spotted a few heroes walking around outside, talking to some others. He moved as close as he dared too, finding a small overhang to hide in.

He was perched in an archway, on the side of a building with a overhang shadowing him from the sky. He could hide in the shadows and watch comfortably from his little viewing point.

He had a perfect angle of the city hall, with the front doors in sight and a whole view of the courtyard. There was already a crowd forming around it all, being held back by police officers. It should be starting soon.

Tommy felt his nerves sky rocketing the longer he waited there, on the cold bricks with the spider webs, hiding in the shadows. He was just left with himself and his thoughts of paranoia as he tried to think of any ways Dream could be watching him right now. It wasn’t until he saw all the heroes leaving the building did he tense up, watching everything closely.

What if it all was a fluke? Or some sick cruel joke on him? What if they were going after Tubbo or Ranboo?

He bounced his leg up and down nervously, debating on wether or not he should go back to them.

The event had begun, with all the heroes sat down in the chairs and Puffy standing on the small stage talking, Schlatt off to the side of her. Was it an assassination attempt? Tommy strained to hear what she was saying but he was to far away.

He was starting to think nothing was going to happen after thirty minutes of talking from Puffy. Everything seemed normal, it was a nice sunny day and the captain of the heroes was giving a very boring speech. Tommy was fiddling with his suit, rubbing his fingers along the hard fabric that consisted of the material of his suit, finding it distracting.

His anxiety was only getting worse the longer nothing happened. Was this all part of their plans? Tommy shivered, searching everything again for the millionth time, his paranoia only getting worse by the second.

He was starting to go a little crazy when suddenly there was an obvious disrupt in the crowd. Screaming filled his ears as he jolted, tensing up for a fight. The crowd was starting to run and scatter, like someone had dropped a bomb in the middle of them.

The heroes all immediately sprung up out of their seats, pulling out their weapons as they prepared for a battle.

From seemingly out of no where stood three people amongst the scattering crowd, holding weapons in their hands as the crowd ran away from them. Tommy felt his chest tighten up as he recognized those three: Sapnap, standing proudly in his white and yellow suit, with a bandana keeping his black hair out of his face and a mask covering up his eyes. He was holding an axe and had two swords strapped to his back, adding onto to his signature look.

Next was George, in a blue and black suit with a mask covering his face. He had a gun in his hands and more weapons strapped to his belt, more or so low-key compared to the other two.

Then there was Dream. He was in his green cloak, with his hood up and white mask strapped on his face. Tommy could only imagine how many weapons he had hidden under his cloak and the amount of tricks up his sleeve.

Tommy frantically looked around for Eret, pressing himself further against the brick wall, trying to melt into the shadows. There was no way the three of them would be able to get out of this, with all those heroes right there.

To Tommy’s dismay he saw more villains appear, some from the Hunters and other local villains, slinking out from alleys and appearing from thin air. It was a set-up.

Fuck.

Dream was talking, probably some stupid little speech, holding out his sword in front of him. What was the Hunters plan in this? What were they going to gain?

Tommy couldn’t take his eyes off of Dream, his blue eyes wavering dangerously as he stared at the man who had let him go— he had let him go! Why was he back? He was going to take him away, wasn’t he? He was going to drag him back off to the Hunter’s and kill him over and over and over until all that was left of him was some mindless, flightless doll!


Tommy was panicking, as he took in short wheezing breaths. His mind was spiraling with dark thought after dark thought as his blue eyes stayed pinned onto Dream, his hands violently shaking as it sunk in.

Dream must have known— Dream always knows — because he looked over his shoulder, his white mask glinting in the sunlight as he locked eyes with Tommy. He froze, loosing all air in his lungs. It was brief, only a moment but it felt like it lasted for years.

Tommy sobbed out, pressing his hands on his face in some attempt to calm himself down. He was blinking back tears as chaos erupted down below him, hero pitted against villain. He lost track of Dream in the fighting that ensued, feeling more panic crawling at him.

He curled in on himself from the ledge he was hidden on, bringing his knees up to his chest as his un-seeing eyes watched the fight. He flinched at any noise near him, his back pressed against the cold brick of the building.

He was barely breathing with every moment he didn’t see Dream down there in the fighting crowd.

His anxiety was sky-rocketing the longer he sat there, watching as Wilbur was getting hurt by Sapnap, and Phil who was being ruthlessly targeted by some of the Hunters.

He wanted to help but he was to fucking scared to even breathe.

It felt like hours he was lost in his mind before he heard the sound of boots against stone as someone made their way towards him. He let out a small whimper, curling in closer to himself as he stared wide-eyed at the ledge he was on.

A gloved hand came out of nowhere, griping onto the ledge as another one came up, following after the first. Tommy’s breath hitched as he stared in horror as a white mask peeked up over the edge, the black smiley face that hundred his dreams right there as the sun glinted on it.

He realized he felt relieved at the sight of the man.

He felt sick.

Tommy was frozen as he watched Dream crawl up over the ledge, his green cloak billowing out behind him as he stood up, towering over where Tommy was curled up on the ground.

He was breathing heavily as he stared at Dream, the burn on his neck seeming to sting from phantom pains the longer he stared at that smile on his face.

“Theseus.” Dream said in an even tone, a tone that always brought a punishment. A tone that meant he had done something so wrong it warranted him to die and be brought back, adding on another sign of the dead to his hair.

Tommy wanted to cry out after hearing his old name coming from his familiar voice. His chest constricted as tears spilled past his eyes, soaking his mask as he desperately tried to blink them back.

Dream didn’t like it when he cried.

He wasn’t expecting a response from him, he never did, unless he was directly prompted. He was not prompted and not expected a response, so Tommy stayed quiet, only a couple of soft pathetic sobs passing through his lips as he cried.

“Where are your wings, little bird?” Without warning Dream lunged for him, grabbing him by the collar of his suit and yanking him like he weighed nothing over the edge of the ledge, sending him plummeting to the ground.

Tommy barley had any time to register what just happened before he was falling down to the concrete that awaited him below. He screamed in panic as his wings burst out from his back, red and white feathers flashing across his vision as he caught himself in the air.

He was falling too fast to fully stop himself form slamming into a brick wall before he fell to the ground in a heap of limbs and feathers. His head was swimming and his whole body ached as he laid there unmoving on the cold concrete floor of the alley, sobbing and gasping for breath.

He should be running for help— he should be running to Techno or Phil or Wilbur or anyone instead of laying there on the ground.

But he couldn't, because Dream would be mad at him and he didn’t want Dream to be mad at him because that only brought more punishments—

He was trapped in Dream’s web once again, with his wings tangled up in the sticky silky web as Dream strung him up like a marionette, infecting his mind and making his every move for him.

Tommy felt his heart stop as he heard boots clicking along the concrete floor of the dark alley. He didn’t even move as Dream tsked at him, coming to a stop right besides where his face was pressed against the dingy alley floor.

“Oh, poor, poor Theseus.” He mused, his tone one of teasing. “Look what you got yourself into, hm?” He said, leaning down besides him. He reached out, trailing one of his hands through his hair. Since when did his hood come down—

“Running off to go play hero, now are we?” He said as he cupped his cheek, carding his fingers through his hair. The touch felt so alien and strange to him, yet it had some part of him beaming at it as he leaned up into it like a cat.

Dream huffed in amusement, wrapping his arms around him as he pulled Tommy up from where he was on the floor. He held him like a rag doll, as Tommy stayed limp, his wavering blue eyes never leaving his white mask.

He hated not being able to see what was going on behind his mask.

“Aw, did my Theseus miss me?” He cooed softly at him, his voice full of fake fondness and warmth as he pulled Tommy close to him. Dream was sitting down now, as he pulled Tommy into his lap, resting Tommy’s head on his shoulder.

“I missed you too, my dear Theseus.” Dream whispered into his ear, holding him tight. “My, my, what a mess these wings are.” He said in a disapproving tone. Tommy tensed up at that, his fingers griping Dream’s green cloak as he waited for the pain to come.

It never did.

Tommy flinched the moment Dream had touched one of his wings. Dream didn’t react to it as he spread out his sore wings gently, with the upmost care in the world as he began to right the ruffled feathers and pick out the dust and dirt mixed in.

“Hm, Theseus?” Dream asked, but he was not waiting for an answer from him. He never was.

“Im all you need, you know?” He said in a dark tone, running his fingers through his wings, sending shivers down his spine. “You don’t need Phil, or Wilbur, or Techno, or those two silly friends of yours.” His words sent terror and fear flooding through his veins as his whole world came spinning to a stop. He was drifting, falling into a daze as he craved Dream’s touch. It was what he had been longing for, to be back with Dream.

“You don’t need anyone but me.” He mused, hugging him tightly, possessively, as if he was some object. “I hope you understand just that, my dear one, that your are mine and only mine.” He started to run his fingers through his hair again, humming some tune.

“Things can never be like the past, can it?” He mused darkly, “But we can make it work again, right? Me and Theseus, the unstoppable duo.” Dream breathed out.

“Dream’s apprentice in crime, right by my side where you belong.” He laughed, holding him out on front of him, his wings hanging limp behind his back. “Just like old times.”

Yeah. Just like old times.

“No stupid heroes corrupting you, no silly friends, just me and only me.” And that’s where Tommy’s little daze ended. He blinked, blinking away the fog that had been covering his mind. His fingers let go of Dream’s green cloak as his wings tensed up.

This was wrong.

He wanted Techno.

He wanted to be free from him.

“N-no.” He stuttered out, pushing himself weakly away from Dream.

Dream’s grip only tightened on him, making Tommy freeze up.

“No?” He asked, tilting his head in question, a dangerous tone in his voice. Tommy swallowed down his nerves, squeezing his eyes shut as he remembered his family.

“No.” He said in a louder voice, but he still sounded unsure as he worked up his confidence.

“No— you know what?” He was finding his voice, slowly but surely the shock from seeing Dream was wearing off, as that small part of him that wanted to be around Dream was being pushed out by all his anger and hate and disgust for the man.

“Fuck you, Dream.” He growled, kicking himself out of Dreams hold. Dream lost his grip as Tommy tumbled backwards on the ground, his wings splayed out underneath him as he quickly jumped up in a flurry of red and white.

He had his knife in hand immediately, his wings spread out behind him in an almost mocking way, as he felt a little smile grace his lips.

“Fuck. You.“ He snarled, his blue eyes alight with a fire he had been long missing.

He was not going to fall under Dream’s control ever again.

Dream seemed shocked, as he slowly stood up, his green cloak all ruffled.

“Oh Theseus, your going to regret this.”

***
Read end notes

Notes for the rest of the fic. Sorry they probably might not make sense lol.

Tommy is degressing in his progress he has made, becoming more flinchy and dependant on Techno. Everyone is getting more worried about him and he says he’s fine when he is not. Fluff :) and bonding! Spector- Theseus moment again, further sending him spiraling.

Dont forget his job and the other heros, throw in some more vigilante moments, or Tubbo-Ranboo-Tommy fun. More Ranboo development

Tommy goes out as Theseus and encounters Dream. Drowning scene. Tommy manages to break through Dreams manipulation for the final time and Dream realizes he needs to take drastic measures to get Toms back.

Throw in some light-hearted fluff here :) a nice chapter to distract from everything else before it all gets so much worse

Tommy wants to build up a team of vigilantes to help take down Dream. He talks with Purpled, Ranboo, Techno,
Purpled gets Slime to help as well, to Karl’s request.

Dream begins to start ruining Theseus’s reputation, framing him for mutable things, until Dream frames him for something huge- something no one could just ignore. Before this, identity reveal

Aftermath, all goes to chaos,

Sam could kill Ranboo and manage to capture Tommy in his grief after Tommy had been framed by the Dream team. It could all be an elaborate plow to get back into Tommys head, the Dream team planning to rescue him from the prison but instead its SBI :)

They all go to take down the Hunters once and for all after Tommy reveals their plans, managing to take down the Dream team and putting them in pandoras vault. Or death.

For our resolution, Eret could fulfill his promise and cut off his wings, leaving our poor Tommy a wingless chicken, but Dream has been taken down, he has the heros on his side, along with Purpled, Tubbo, Slime, Techno and everyone else. He finally found his family at the Hunters end, and he truly gains his freedom. (Ranboo is dead for good. But he’s there in spirit. :( RIP Boo)