Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It was dark when everything had happened.

It was a gentle night as the lights in London glistened wonderfully on a rainy day, but not making any sound to disturb its dear citizens, who slept ever so peacefully.

This included a very particular archaeologist and weirdly famous Detective, Professor Hershel Layton, who was especially a London celebrity due to the cases he cracked.

Currently though, he was just another sleeping being which for once resided without the tophat, which had been placed on the table for now.

He was using his coat as a blanket again, while he himself was half in the clothes he wore previously that day, where he had also left his office a clear mess.

As a Professor for so many Students, he needed to grade papers, make sure there weren't any mistakes, prepare meetings and make sure some of the very difficult crimes of Scotland yard were solved-

So he was a mess for himself to save, even if Rosa or his fellow Friends were worried for him.

With a gentle snore, it was evident the dear professor needed desperate sleep, his face half in the soft pillow he used as a support.

His eyebags due to studying and being an unqualified detective were huge and this time no assistant, acquaintance or adopted daughter were there to help him.

And maybe that was the problem.

He was lonely, even with all those problems he hasn't handled completely yet after all those years…but he'll be fine.

He always is.

Yet once the clock hit sharp 3 AM, a sudden noise rang through his tired ears, making him crack a blurry eye open, the surrounding room being almost not recognizable to him.

With a stifled groan, he assisted himself with his arms to lift his body a bit, ready to stand up when his body was ready and not feeling like a bunch of rocks were put in his stomach.

His ears silently registered the raindrops dropping against the window and the faint light illuminating from the lamp post, making him sigh softly.

Humming, he dusted off his dearest hat, putting it on and stretching his limbs to properly adjust to the fact he woke up at the wrong time of day...again.

For the second time this week on a Thursday.

“One Minute!” Layton called out tenderly to the person that may be in front of the door, hoping to not let them wait that much as he steadied up his posture.

A gentleman always is in his best form when around a new and old person.

He silently yawned, before making his way over to the door, hearing faint wood crackling due to the weight his shoes put on the floor.

With a gentle hum, he opened the door and opening his mouth to greet the person, maybe invite them in due to rain and give them a cup of tea-

But no one was there.

Confused, Layton looked around, giving a glance to the light illuminating from the light post which showed the heavy rain, only quickening in pace and bringing the cold in, as well as making the streets all slippery and wet.

Finally looking down, he noticed a simple envelope, white with a soft blue peek and a red stamp on it, making it seem rather formal and not just a normal occurrence.

It seemed dry enough, even it it rained so heavily, having not a single drop of a rainwater on it.

He picked it up, letting his thumb trace over the seal as he headed back to the couch he previously napped on…and got back pain from as he just noticed.

Letting out a groan he didn't know he held in, Layton traced his back with his thumb, starting to massage it properly as he looked around again.

Taking a swift Glance at the picture frames he hung up, he smiled almost as he straightened up his back.

One was with Flora and Luke during a trip they did, specifically Dropstone as they had revisited it, smiles plastering their face due to their bond.

The people were grateful for him to bring back Anton, as they never met the former fiance of Sofia. They didn't mind the age, as they were just happy Katia had a relative that took care of her.

Layton couldn't be happier to see Flora happy aswell, ashamed of how he treated her like nothing and left her behind in a dirty old barn. But Flora forgave her, bless her little heart.

The rest of the day was spend with treats and laughter, the photo taken right as they went back to the Molentary-Express.

The second was with Randall, Henry and Angela, during a time they stargazed together in Monte d'Or, where they beautifully glowed and the cold didn't seem as cold as it was with his old friends.

He perfectly remembered how Randall didn't stop rambling for the next two hours about stars, which he couldn't help but chuckle about.

Henry and Angela actually had been married now officially, as Randall wasn't as interested in her anymore surprisingly and he prefered to stay with them as friends.

They had a great bond, Hershel could tell yet Randall never missed an opportunity to talk to hershel about all the new stuff that was in Monte d'Or.

He smiled softly at the Memory.

The third…was a photo of the Bronev's, which he only hung up for his deceased mother and his so-called brother.

The smiles felt so genuine, yet his stomach hurt at the mere thought of his father's actions and Descole.

He didn't even know how either of them were, Hershel hated the thought of his former…relative behind prison bars.

And wherever Descole is-

Better to forget about it.

Layton finally stood up and opened up a drawer by his desk, taking out a razor blade and opening up the envelope to read the letter inside.

Taking a minute to read it, his interest finally got peeked of the contents inside of it.

“Dear Hershel Layton, I’ve Come to know that you take cases regarding mysterious puzzles And potential archaeological discoveries. I’ve found a treasure that I think you’d like to see.”

How interesting.

He has found many, MANY treasures across the world already, some with a prize or some just special in their meaning…so he wondered which kind this one would be.

Curiously as ever, Layton looked at the Address.

“17 Wilton Road, Pimlico, Apollo Victoria Theatre"

Ah, the Theatre. 

He heard it from a lot of his students and Friends, mostly from the huge lights, the Big rooms and the brilliant shows which seemed to be almost magical 

But he wondered, what's so special about the Theatre? What kind of relic would be there to uncover?

For now though, that didn't matter that much, as he wrote a quick letter to Rosa for someone to take over his classes and for anyone that worried to inform them where he was.

He hated having to make his students miss even more lessons, but this was more important currently.

And in any case, if it was just a dumb prank, he could return as quick as he left.

But his intuitions are sadly most never wrong.

Layton yawned, noticing that maybe he should sleep just a little bit more for concentration…but a Gentleman must always help a friend in need as fast as possible.

So he took a quick trip to the bathroom, shamingly put on some quick makeup to cover his deep eyebags - Which he knows he should deal with later - and quickly grabbed the coat he always wore.

He shook it to get any dirt or freckles out and put it on, grabbing an umbrella and heading outside to the Laytonmobile, opening the car door and taking a steady breath.

Starting the engine, the car made some pleasant sounds to show it was on till he drove on, the window soon getting cleaned by itself.

Layton took a minute to prepare, silently driving along the road, taking turns and relaxing once a red light was shown to him.

While driving, Layton flinched as some weird cars speed by at extreme speed, seemingly either extremely excited or just straight up trying to impress someone.

He shook his head, ignoring those ungentlemanly drivers and taking a turn as he reached the theatre.

He stepped out of the car, ignoring the drops that soaked his tophat as he walked across the carpark, his shoes getting a bit wet and muddy.

The Theatre was glowing bright in its glory, the sign showing he was right where he wanted to be.

He opened the doors of the Theatre finally, going into the dry destination.

Yet…

Layton just didn't know what he had stumbled into.

He never did.

Chapter Text

Entering the theatre was rather interesting.

He went inside, brushing off some leaves and settled raindrops from his coat and hat as he made his way along the halls of the giant Entrance.

The hall was nicely lit with neon lights, giving a magnificent overview of how expensive this dear auditorium might be.

Yet the moment Layton entered, he nearly lost his breath as he saw one specific- no, two specific people who he held dear.

Luke and Flora.

Staring at the two for a moment, they seemed to have not even noticed him, given that they were happily talking together like they haven't seen each other for the last….

9 Months?

It was too long. He wouldn't even know what to talk about first due to the amount of catching up he had to do.

And the fact his brain was working on 2 hours of sleep.

“L-Luke-?” Layton barely stuttered out, even though a gentleman never stutters and keeps his composure…Claire would have to forgive him this once. 

With a swift turn, both Flora and Luke had shock sprawled across their faces, staring into the professor's eyes, each looking like a deer in the headlights.

Even so, the surprise turned into glee as both of them hugged Layton, making him almost tear up, but sucking it up - a gentleman never cries.

Not even if the two children were practically bawling in a way that made him want to cry just out of happiness as well as he hugged both of them firmly.

After a few minutes, they separated a bit, but just so that the two weren't burying their heads into his now somewhat soaked pullover.

“Professor, what are you doing here?” Luke asked in his iconic tone as both of the kids held onto each arm for warmth and to probably show how much they missed him.

While Luke had to move far away due to his father's new job, Flora had been going with him actually. She wanted to see America as well, so she'd gotten on a little boat herself.

Flora needed to get out more. Layton knew that and agreed to let her visit Luke while she had promised to be careful.

“Ah, I got a letter, my boy.” Layton started, pulling out the nicely folded letter before putting it back in his pocket. “It told about a new treasure, and a little visit could not hurt.”

“Huh, how interesting…we got a letter as well, Papa!” Flora had mentioned, with Layton's chest tightening just a bit with love as he was called Papa by Flora.

She was adopted in a way, but he found it adorable how she saw him as a father figure.

“That's strange. May I see?”

Quickly nodding, Luke gave the letter to Layton, who took a quick glance over the mysterious object, analysing it closely.

“Dear Luke and Flora. I address this to you both, as I have found a new mystery for you two to unfold. Maybe you can follow in the footsteps of your old mentor.”

He almost scoffed at being called old, as he was in his late 30's.

“Ah…this isn't quite the same as mine.” Layton mentioned firmly, before looking over to his acquaintance and adopted daughter. “May I keep this?” He continued, knowing a gentleman should always ask for permission to keep a precious object.

“Of course, Professor!” Luke said, before it was finally pocketed into his jacket, then proceeded to look around.

He took Flora's hand, having the protective nature still inside of him as Luke followed along as well, checking the halls to see if anyone else was there with them.

Layton glanced several times over to the bright lights and signs, giving a soft smile as the happy and upbeat colours seemed to give this place a good feeling.

But maybe he was starting to stare as he bumped into someone despite the unheard warnings of Flora, starting a small domino chain of groans as each person hit one another.

“Sir, could you look where you're going-?” A familiar voice rang through his ear.

Henry?

Looking up, he noticed the three figures which Layton knew all too well from his teenage years of adventure and heavy forced digging by his oldest best friend, which he did not mind at all.

Mostly.

Randall, Henry and Angela.

“Oh, it's you!” Luke perked up, sounding rather curious and excited as he pointed at Randall as the guy had eyes as saucers, while Flora didn't quite seem to even understand the situation.

“Who are these people…?’ Flora questioned a bit softly, holding onto Laytons hands to which he kindly responded with a protective hold of her hand.

“Ah, Hersh, long time no see!” Randall said, being a beam of sunshine as he knew from his childhood, feeling an arm wrap around him as a chuckle escaped him.

“Nice to see you too, Randall.” Layton looked over to Angela and Henry, waving as he couldn't really escape his best friend's sweet company. “And Flora, these are my old friends.”

“Hershel, it's so nice to see you again. Did you get invited as well?” Angela asked, holding Henry's hand with a smile as they were perfectly intertwined.

A couple that truly found eachother.

“Ah, yes-! May I inspect your note?” Layton mentioned quickly, noticing how Flora let go of his hand to greet Randall and Henry, while Luke made sure everything was safe.

It's fair to have mistrust in the person who hung you from the ceiling, practically asking to be saved or else they were to die and splatter on the ground.

Okay, too descriptive.

Angela as well gave that quick nod followed with a ‘mhm’, the letter noticeably being more formal for them with a red tint and smoother fabric. He began studying it as well.

“Dear Henry, Angela and Randall, I hope you're doing very well. I have a new Invention for your town and I want to present it in full glory for your entertainment. “

“It always talks about something else.” Layton mumbled to himself noticeably, the brim of his top hat slightly tipping over his eyes as he hummed.

“Is anything wrong with the note?” Henry turned around from his simple conversation with Flora, making Randall's head turn as well to show a confused stare.

“No, No. May I keep it though?” Layton asked and chuckled once Randall gave an approving thumbs up to his Idea, pocketing the new letter once again.

“Hey, maybe if you and we three are invited, then perhaps there is another group! Come on, let's see!” Randall mentioned happily, before grabbing Layton’s hand surprisingly and dragging him across the halls.

He couldn't help but snicker softly at Randall's attitude, taking a second to follow him steadily and not stumble every two steps..like a gentleman would do.

Luckily, the others soon followed with, probably not wanting to be abandoned cause this man was walking at the speed of light due to happiness and pure adrenaline.

With a swift turn, he peeked around the corner-

And nearly spat water out of his mouth that didn't quite exist in this universe.

“Hey, wait, Miss Emmy! He hasn't done anything wrong yet!”

“I'll call almost driving over several people a crime, mister!”

“LET GO OF MY NOSE, YOU DUNCE-!”

Okay, the scene was way more absurd now that he did a double take.

What he was seeing was Dimitri presumably panicking as Emmy had grabbed Don Paolo's nose, trying to handcuff or atleast hold him down to the ground to arrest.

But then Layton noticed something.

…So he was the man who almost crashed into his car? Fair point, he didn't quite recognize anything unusual at first glance in his shock, but such a car can't go such speeds at that rate-

And it had been heading to the Apollo Victoria Theatre.

“Wait, Emmy! Let Don Paolo go!” Layton said firmly in a louder tone so Emmy would hear him as he started to swiftly move her away from inevitably ripping off the nose.

Don Paolo groaned as he looked up, rubbing his nose furiously while Dimitri stayed in surprise, which was the same for dear Emmy who was currently staring at the top hat-wearing professor.

“Professor Layton?” Emmy audibly gasped as she immediately shook his hand politely and with the force of 10 horses as he yelped. “It's so good to see you again!”

Layton softly smiled at this though, as he shook the hand with a firm grip. “The pleasures all mine, Emmy.” He said before turning to his white coat wearing friend.

“Hello, Dimitri. I'm surprised you came as well, but with so many people I know already here…i should have foreseen it.” Layton mentioned with a smile, also shaking dimmitri's hand out of politeness…before it was quickly smacked away by Don Paulo.

“Hey, Layton! You're here too?’ Don Paulo, or as short Paul said, looking confused and hurt from having his nose previously pulled. With a quiet hum, Layton nodded and pointed his finger upwards.

“Of course. And if I'm correct, you received a letter as well. May I see?” With a soft nod to each other, Emmy gave her’s up for now to the professor and he started reading it like any other, while in the background Emmy talked to the other two for a second.

“Hello, Miss Emmy. I hope you're not too busy, but I may have a solution for a little redemption of yours..afterall, you're not the most trustworthy woman.”

He hummed sadly for a moment, taking a quiet look around as he saw Flora holding onto Randall's arm softly, probably due to the whole ‘Golden Apple’ incident, while Luke was probably prepared to protect them all like a true gentleman.

“It's sad to see you still feeling guilty about something you had no control over, Emmy.’ Layton mentioned as he turned back to her, glancing at the fairly uninteresting arguing between Don Paolo and Dimitri which probably happened over a stolen hat while they talked.

Emmy sadly looked down but took a peek back as Layton put a hand on her shoulder, patting it a bit. “Just as a reminder, I forgave you long ago.”

It made him happy that she gave a soft smile.

“Thank you, professor…but anyway, I see we have quite a group here, and all people we know.. kinda.” She mentioned as the two watched Don Paolo trying to not get caught with Dimmitri's hat, before Layton just grabbed it with a swift turn. 

“Well, more people I know. I think this is more than just a simple Treasure…” Layton hummed as he gave the hat back, before proceeding onward and moving a hand quickly up. “Come on everyone, let's head to our Theatre room.”

With some gasps, soft reassurances and more, the others followed. Flora had changed hands with Luke to protect her, Randall was currently on a rambling talk with Angela and Henry about how some kind of artefact might be hidden here and Dimmitri and Don Paolo practically stared at one another curiously.

Though by their specified room, there was someone standing against the entrance in boredom, fiddling with their hands softly as they brushed one of them sometimes through their hair.

“Clive!” Luke immediately noticed, taking a slow procedure to show Flora what he was doing as he let go of her hand and ran forward to come before Clive. “What are you doing out of prison?”

That…was actually a good question. What was Clive doing out of Prison so early? Not that he minded of course, it was a rather happy occasion to see the boy get some fresh air.

“Apparently, someone bailed me out with huge amounts of money…not that I think I deserved it.” Clive huffed, looking over to the huge group of people in surprise. “...Guessing you all were invited too?”

Nods and agreeing sounds were fastly exchanged before Layton stepped forward, holding his hand out. “That's exactly right, Clive. May I see your invite?” He asked kindly, before the letter was properly unfolded and handed to him.

“Dear Clive, I give you the regards of freedom for a little favour. Please come to the theatre to get a stunning performance, will you?”

“Interesting.” Layton noted as he pocketed the note as well, before moving forward. Clive had joined the back group with Dimmitri and such to probably update themselves of their life.

Finally entering the Huge room, alot of gasps and stunned gazes were headed to the pure size of the room and the beautiful lights gazing from above, making everything seem so full of life.

“Wow, this is Amazing!” Luke noted as he ran a bit forward with Flora, laughing happily as they somewhat played tag around the tables and seats. Henry came beside him soon enough as well.

“This reminds me of Monte d'Or…” He mentioned happily, giving a smile as the others followed, looking around.

While Don Paolo was seeking for any mechanics he could use and steal, Dimmitri meanwhile just admired the lights and the effort that was put into every single detail.

Emmy was making sure the children weren't hurting themselves and even playing tag a bit herself, laughing happily as she picked Flora up. Even if they just knew eachother, they already fit to one another like two peas in a pot.

Angela had followed Henry along with Clive to learn more about him, while Randall was simply beside Layton to at least keep him company at the moment…yet Layton suddenly found his interest plastered somewhere else.

He spaced out as he realised who he was looking at.

Silently sitting next to eachother, Descole and Le…Mr Bronev were sitting next to one another, practically baffled by the sudden amount of people in this room, before looking around-

And spotting him.

Mr Bronev flinched away and immediately turned around again while Descole gave a silent stare, almost seeming to want Layton to come talk to him.

“You okay, Hersh?” Randall asked, making Layton snap out of his trance for a second as he sweated softly. Though it was soon softened out as he was rubbed softly on the back.

“Yeah, I'm…I'm fine, I'll be right back. Okay, Randall?” Layton said softly and sighed in relief as he got a thumbs up by Randall once again. It brought him comfort to see someone understand this Family dilemma.

With a deep breath, he proceeded onward to Descoles seat, trying to ignore Bronev for now.

“He-...Hello, Descole.” Layton said, forcing himself not to stutter as he stared at his bigger brother with a silent gaze, which only seemed to stare back as the mask covered his face.

“...Hello. Guessing this was a Reunion of some sorts?” Descole mentioned, pulling his cape closer and rubbing it protectively, seeming to try and find comfort in this situation. 

The ones who knew him like Emmy or Luke avoided him, yet Layton stayed and talked to him like a normal Person anyway, because you should not ignore someone for no reason.

Even if he had every reason to do so.

“Yes, I believe so. I have collected most Letters, may I see yours as well to fulfil the collection?” Layton asked and even if Bronev gave a grunt of disapproval, Descole ignored it and just gave him two letters for the occasion to read.

“Dear Descole, I believe you didn't hear that Leon Bronev got out of Prison..I'm just making sure you'll get your proper justice, as he is in the Theatre in London tonight.”

He frowned, not having noticed that Bronev was even out of Prison. It wasn't in any of the newspapers, so maybe he got secretly bailed out with Money as well.

He then read the second note.

“Dear Leon, I have heard you missed your previous life. I felt pity, so I got you out of prison with my own hard earned money…return me a favour at the Theatre, would you?”

The sender had way too much money and somehow wanted many high class criminals out…what was there to gain from this? There didn't seem to be a straight Goal!

“I pretty much just wanted to beat this guy back to his prison cell, but our dear formalities meeting seemed to have been planned due to both of these letters' connection.” Descole mentioned as Leon just absently nodded, but all three of them noticed how uncomfortable it was getting.

“..It is good to see you again, Descole.” Layton mentioned with a final hum before returning to Randall, taking a quick breath as Randall held his palm and rubbed comforting circles into it.

“Who were those idiots? Are you okay, Hersh?” Randall asked worryingly as Layton took a silent moment to compose himself to keep being a respectful Gentleman and not a complete mess of emotions and repressed memories.

“I'm Fine.” Layton nodded to himself, trying to convince himself at this point as well…before both of them flinched harshly as Don Paolo broke one of the sweet vases while searching around.

They shared a stare before he tip-toed off to Dimmitri, escaping the awkward moment to get any worse. It did help Layton take his mind off things for the time being.

For a moment, there was peace inside the room as he watched the children and his former assistant play along, almost bumping into Clive as he yelped. A laughter was shared between Angela and Henry as everything seemed peaceful for just a moment-

But of course, that didn't last.

Suddenly, the area was blasted with so much smoke they couldn't see eachother so much as their hand, covering the entire area. Layton barely catched Emmy holding the two kids close protectively and the others going into little piles of groups to stay safe.

Randall held onto Hershels hand for safety and their hands intertwined carefully, making sure they were both okay at the moment…some faint movement could be seen, but more could Layton not identify, beside some times he was touched or grabbed by the leg, making him kick at barely anything.

They were moving too fast, whoever they were.

As the smoke lifted, most of them were coughing, trying to catch the natural air of the Theatre again so they wouldn't suffocate. “Is everyone okay?” Yelled Emmy out, while Layton helped bring everyone into a little circle so they could make sure no one got hurt.

Some reassurance was exchanged and the children and adults were checked. Don Paolo was furiously coughing while saying he was okay, being patted on the back by Clive who just looked annoyed with the situation.

Descole and Bronev still kept away, just barely checking each other while glaring like at any moment both of them kill eachother out of revenge, even if that period was long over.

Finally properly thinking and having checked everyone, Layton remembered hearing several click-like sounds and looked around…before noticing the straps on everyone's legs that they somehow haven't seen before.

“What is this madness?” Bronev finally exclaimed angrily, trying to take off the strap but only getting zapped in the process. There were green lights on them and if they were touched, they turned red…electrocuting the person for a second.

“One second, let old Don Paolo try!” Don Paolo exclaimed, sitting down and checking with Dimmitri if they could somehow remove the lock without getting hurt…but just both got shocked in the process, even if they used alternate objects.

Angela was making sure none of the kids touched it, as a young body was way weaker to such shocks than an adult. Henry and Randall kept together and Clive mostly just watched the Chaos.

Finally, a voice from some megaphones attuned, heavily edited sounding as it was just really deep and glitchy.

“Hello, My dear Puzzle friends! I welcome you to the invitation's main objective and the trap you all fell into!” The voice attuned, bringing a sinister giggle into it. Of course Luke tried finding the voice, but Layton got forward and held him to his place for safety.

“Who are you? What do you want from us?” Dimmitri exclaimed with an annoyed tone, stepping forward as the doors were kept locked for all of them at the moment.

“Ah, nothing much, my friend! I have actually prepared a marvellous surprise for all of you!” With a short click, a banner came down as well as some weirdly well drawn props to seem friendly, even if it seems more like a ridiculous scheme.

“A treasure hunt for a gem that can come only once! And you all get to participate in it, like little dogs to my will.” The voice hummed, happily showing that they didn't feel remorse for their actions.

“Let me guess. We don't participate, we get zapped to death?” Clive noted, simply staring at the contraptions on their legs which simply beeped along the way. 

“Right you are, my dear Orphan boy! But no worries…I'll assist in the treasure hunt, as it won't be fun to just have dead and clueless bodies hanging around a famous auditorium.” The voice boomed, before a letter slowly flew down from the ceiling.

The first one to catch it was Descole, but due to knowledge and general puzzle solving skills, it was handed to Layton again. The voice then started to talk again one last time.

“Now, have a happy time solving everything!” Finally, the doors unlocked and the microphones were turned off, the whole place seeming to be finally silent as the group was there.

“...So, we are forced together like a Road Trip group. Fantastic.” Don Paolo complained, crossing his arms with a disapproving huff as his hair flopped down.

Flora shivered softly and held Laytons hand, making him be the one to rub circles across her palm while looking down at the note.

“The Note has some coordinates, but from what I know, their way is too far away from London to be able to be driven.” Layton said, before the note was suddenly removed from his hands by Descole, who was smirking for once.

“Who said we have to drive?”

“YOU PARKED YOUR ZEPPELIN HERE-!?”

That was the pure reaction from Luke as they had walked into the rainy forest to find a huge zeppelin hidden behind all these trees that were losing their leaves.

“Purely so no one would find it and get suspicious. Now, would everyone get in so we can fly?” Descole mentioned while there were so many different reactions to this.

Emmy and Luke had already driven this thing, so it wasn't the most inspiring airship to them anymore, but Don Paolo was practically almost ready to tear this thing apart to analyse it, while dimitri just checked the workings.

Clive humbly admired some of the workings there, but wasn't as impressed, while the Monte d'Or group looked somewhat like children in a toy section.

“Randall, please don't touch that-” Henry tried stopping Randall in a sad attempt to not touch everything and press every button he saw, while Angela was softly chuckling at this dear mess.

Flora was happily with Raymond, who was showing her how the ship works as she was curious how it started up. The coordinates were being put in, and the thing was slowly getting turned on.

A low whistle was heard as the Zeppelin flew into the rainy sky, shaking a bit as everyone tried not to slip up and butt slam onto the deck or floor.

But as they were finally at a proper level where the clouds calmed down, the peace was set as the group looked out the window to see over the glowing city of London.

“...Well, were stuck together, so might as well get to know eachother, eh?” Randall mentioned with a smirk and people settled down finally along with eachother, trying to make conversation. “This is gonna be great, right, Hershel?” Randall said excitingly to Layton, who was mostly just laying there with his tophat over his eyes.

….Yet silence weirdly followed as the others stated in confusion for a moment.

“Hersh?” Randall hummed, before lifting the tophat just a bit to reveal a sleeping hershel, making some people coo or just roll their ass a bit in disinterest.

“Huh, you must have gotten the mail much later than anyone else's…” Randall knew most everyone must have gotten their mail around yesterday at least, as everyone slept well before their bedtime to prepare.

Yet Hershel looked mostly like he hadn't slept at all, the eyebags slowly visible from the makeup fading away, making Randall look worried.

He quietly requested a blanket and a pillow and the others started doing their thing, slowly tucking in hershel and putting a pillow under his head.

He removed the coat for now and made sure the hat kept itself on out of respect, before leaving the man to his nap.

He will need it.

Across this whole adventure.

Chapter Text

Layton didn't know how much he had slept.

All the noise was somehow comforting as he groaned, rolling over as he registered a gasp and a soft rubbing of the side of his arm.

The blanket that had been dropped on him without his knowing got pulled a bit more over his shoulder as he barely cracked his eyes open, trying to register where he was at all.

The first thing registering in his mind was that they were on Descole's Ship, the engine rumbling underneath him in a pretty and steady way that made him want to go back to sleep.

As the blurriness in his eyes lessened, he noticed Flora, Luke and Clive drawing on some papers on the table before him, talking about something he didn't quite listen to.

Near the deck was Raymond and Descole handling the engine, with Don Paulo having to be held back by Dimitri so he doesn't touch anything dangerous and bring them crashing down.

Emmy was currently talking to Henry and Angela, by which he overheard them talking about Monte d’Or's procession and what people think about Randall currently as they didn't get much updates.

One glance near the engine room made him see Bronev before the door, probably being a loner and just waiting for them to arrive at their destination.

He turned his body properly forward, now laying on his chest before sitting properly up. His hat was firmly rearranged by a hand, and he noticed who was rubbing his side a second ago.

“You're finally awake, Sleepyhead! You were sleeping like a rock!” Randall was there, chuckling as he properly adjusted Layton’s hat and giving a reassuring smile which made Layton blush softly.

“Ah…apologies, I didn't mean to fall asleep. A gentleman doesn't-” Layton started, but was cut off by a finger to his lips and Randall staring bullets at him.

“Oh, nonono! Don't give me that “Gentleman” stuff while you looked like a corpse in the face 2 hours ago!” The complaint was reasonable to a lot of people if they listened to this and it would be fairly normal to say they should rest more.

But a Gentleman…wouldn't neglect their work. Never.

The adventures are still police work, so they count.

“I'll…I'll try to sleep more, okay?” Layton said more properly, rubbing his eyes as he looked at the worried Randall. He hoped to reassure his best friend so he wouldn't be all that concerned.

While Randall did still give a stern state, he decided it was enough for today as Hershel mostly kept to his word. “Okay, but I'll get you Melatonin if you don't get more sleep by yourself!” Randall smirked as he booped the professor's nose, where Layton couldn't help but chuckle.

“Okay, Okay…you have my word, Randall.” Layton responded with a hum, before slowly standing up and stretching himself properly with a groan as he glanced over at the children's drawings.

“What are you three drawing?” Layton asked curiously, properly adjusting his coat as he watched the three draw with all the colors of the rainbow.

“I'm drawing the garden in my old village!” Flora mentioned, showing the drawing that had many beautiful flowers and the nicely made gravestone in its middle, which he gave a soft smile too.

“I tried drawing you!” Luke said with a chuckle, showing a rather convincing sketch of the Professor, which almost seemed professional at that point, hence he now gave a thumbs up.

Clive didn't say much as he showed a drawn picture of an old women, two parents and a young-

Oh.

Oh.

He softly huffed, patting Clive's head for a second and giving a happy hum. “It looks amazing.” Layton complimented truthfully and he could swear he saw a glint of hope in Clive's eyes, even if it quickly vanished.

He nodded to himself as he gave the three a hug before continuing on to Emmy, Henry and Angela, who happily waved as she put a hand on Layton's shoulder.

“It's nice to see you rested, Hershel.” Angela noted softly as she patted the shoulder while Hershel appreciated the concern the others had, mostly due to his weird state of mental health.

“Ah, it was a nice nap after all. Do you two like the Zeppelin so far? Descole holds it dear.” Layton mentioned, which made Henry perk up. “Yes, it is rather formal and surprisingly stable.” Henry noted, mostly due to the fact they halfly flew through a storm without as much as a scratch.

Layton actually noticed how the weather had changed during his nap, now being a rather blue sky as they were probably flying into another land or state.

He for now ignored Bronev, mostly because he didn't want to have stress with…his friend, so he went over to Descole, avoiding to be almost punched by Don Paulo who still tried pressing the buttons frantically while Dimitri held him back.

“Come on, a little touch won't hurt anyone!” Don Paulo exclaimed as he reached out, but was quickly pulled back to the tight grip. “It will hurt a lot of people if you by dumb accident hit a shutdown button!” The complaints rang halfway through the room, making Layton chuckle.

“Guessing someone's curious, hm?” Layton simply stood beside Descole who was watching Raymond fly the plane for a bit. He seemed rather skilled, as he didn't even use auto mode, preferring to do it himself.

“Don't even mention it. These idiots have been struggling like this for the last 30 minutes and it's getting on my nerves.” Descole hissed silently, staring outside to the clouds as the needed coordinates seemed to come much closer. “Also, do me a favor. Check the engine room for any mistakes so we don't crash.”

Layton was surprised by the request, but found fondness in the fact that Descole was trusting him enough to let him in the engine room by himself. He gave a quick nod and left to go into the engine room.

Looking around, he found several clocks and screws, moving machinery that seemed pretty complicated, even for a professor like himself. But this was also simply as he was just an archaeologist, not an engineer.

Even if he was able to build small flying machines in a jiffy.

“Hey, Layton!” 

And the silence of the room was just disturbed.

Don Paulo got into the engine room with him, shaking him by the shoulder and pretty much annoying him to an extent he could take. A tired and completely done Dimitri came right after. “I'm so sorry. I couldn't hold him back anymore.”

With a silent hum, Layton gave a reassuring nod. “It's all fine." I don't mind him being here too much.” The two professor's watched at how for once, Don Paulo used his High IQ for good, checking several pipes and mechanics for them to be okay.

But it was soon a calamity for him to be this close, as a simple harsh bump with his leg to the machinery against the collar gave quite a shock - not just to the poor man-

Yet the machinery as well.

The whole ship shook in pure fury as the lights flickered in their enraged state, by which Layton heard yelps and gasps by the people trying to regain balance.

“What the hell's going on in there-!?” A distressed Bronev yelled from behind the door, while a noticeable thud suggested someone fell straight onto their face in that room.

He quickly ran up to the console, taking out the wires for just a moment and noticing how complicated this was engaged- the colors had to be put in their inverted versions.

Descole should really work on his wire skills.

Luckily, he was a master at puzzles, so this was just a simple game to him.

He put the red one into cyan, the green into pink, blue into yellow and finally, yellow into blue. The ship's state returned to normal, before Descole barged in with a pissed off face. “Who broke the wiring of MY SHIP?.” He said with a low growl and glare, showing he wasn't kidding at all.

Only fair to be mad when someone almost killed 13 people, most of them with literal towns in business and two literal kids.

The three looked in between eachother, but without much care pointed at the guilty genius who flinched comically to the side, seeming to not have expected the two professor's to ditch him.

“TRAITOOORSSSS-!” Don Paulo yelled as he was dragged along by Descole, probably getting locked in the backroom for the time being to not cause anymore trouble.

“...So, wild ride, hm?” Dimitri said as he started to laugh, with Layton joining in with a soft chuckle at this little incident.

Finally he stood up though, going back into the main room where Luke hugged Layton from the front and Flora from behind, obviously still somewhat worried. 

“I think we just almost crash landed, professor!” Luke mentioned a bit panicked, but it soon lifted as Layton gave a reassuring smile back to him, almost just making all the worries disappear.

He quietly patted Flora's and Luke's head, hugging them both for a second. “There, There. It's alright, you two.” Layton hummed softly, before going over to Emmy who was by the window. 

“I think we're almost there!” Emmy mentioned in her excited manner, pointing at how the clouds disappeared and showed the sun, before pointing back down to a rather little spot in the middle of nowhere.

It seemed to be a small town, almost similar to Misthallery or St. Mystere…yet it seemed for some reason way more familiar with that, like he had been there before…

And with Descole's face, he should have already guessed where they were.

“It-It…c-can't be!” Descole stuttered out almost breathlessly as he took control, suddenly speeding up the ship way more, almost making a crash land onto the ground as the passenger’s on it yelled in panic.

“WHAT THE HECK ARE YOU DOING-? SLOW DOWN!” Clive yelled out distressed, shaking from the balance loss while Randall face-planted onto the ground from the pure speed.

Probably the second time now.

They rolled down onto the ground, stopping harshly as most people were thrown forward onto the couch or fell to the ground by the pure crash like landing they just had.

Even Don Paolo got practically thrown out of the closet as the shaking undid the lock on the door.

“Nonono, please no, p-please-” Descole mumbled incoherently to himself as he opened the door, running out of the ship and through the heavy grass that surrounded the area.

“Descole! Wait!” Layton yelled after, running along with the others following rather curiously and eagerly and at their own speed, as Dimitri or Henry took their time to look around the new location, While Bronev almost gulped due to the realization.

Yet, slowly he recognized it.

The sweet wood of the house before them.

The stone path leading to it.

And the memories he tried to repress and forget due to their history.

It was the old house where he was still a Bronev. When he still had a brother. When he was just a dumb child with a beautiful Mother and a loving Father.

He almost spaced out again, wanting nothing more to do the opposite than Descole and run for his dear life so he wouldn't have to face his fears.

Yet he couldn't help but sympathize with his brother.

Layton looked over to the shaking figure as the others came along too, staring curiously at the house they of course have never seen before, while the professor started rubbing his brothers back to comfort him.

“This is cruel.” Descole muttered with venom and he would agree if a gentleman would ever show more emotion than a slight chuckle or a single tear. 

He barely noticed Leon nodding for once, holding his head down.

“What is this place, Hersh?” Randall asked curiously as Angela and Henry started inspecting the windows, looking into the long abandoned house, both noticing the inside filled with photos or old dusty objects.

“...Professor?” Emmy said more worryingly as she noticed how Layton seemed to space out even more than Descole, who just let some tears fall.

The- no. Layton stared at the building for a moment more, the memories slowly flowing back into his brain as he felt the need to cry as well.

Yet he didn't.

“It’s our…old family house.” Descole mentioned silently, as gasps and more emitted as the stares to the house increased and Bronev looked ashamed with every second passing.

“Wait…what do you mean by…’ours’?” Dimitri for once mentioned, staring at the two as they looked at eachother for a moment, almost discussing for an hour internally with just a single moment.

Both nodded finally as Layton looked over.

“...He's my brother.” 

And that was the moment yelps and surprised gasps emitted, the shock plastered over the other people's face as Flora and Clive practically tried stating any similarities between the two in genes.

“You don't look similar though.” Clive mentioned simply, giving a conflicted stare to Descole, who frowned and practically hissed…but stopped as Layton patted the shoulder.

“You should have seen them as Children, Boy.” Bronev said almost sadly for once, lowering his sunglasses and giving a sympathetic look to the two Layton almost wanted to ignore.

But he couldn't.

“Don't tell me you're Layton's father or something!” Don Paulo exclaimed, still being shocked as his hair was pointy in surprise, poking the old man annoyingly.

Layton ignored it, letting go of Descole as he tried opening the door…yet it was locked.

Should be simple enough.

He looked under the mat almost out of instinct and found a beautiful wooden key, inserting it into its place and turning it.

A soft click chimed through the fields and the door opened, revealing the Oh so very old home. It smelled beautifully of old wood, but also a lot of dust as one by one everyone entered, going to explore different rooms immediately.

Luke had entered the kitchen with Flora and Clive, noticing the old porcelain kitchenware, the ceramic platforms and the old wooden cabinets which were empty beside some old drawings.

“So, these were drawn by Papa and…that Descole?” Flora mentioned softly, looking over a very old drawing which showed a poorly drawn version of Little Theo, Hershel and their parents. She traced over it very tenderly.

"Apparently. Didn't know the guy had two parents…” Clive had looked inside the fridge, which had no food in it and if there was, it was definitely molden by now. He closed it before any of the smells came out.

Luke silently stared at the pictures that were taken years back, showing the little Theo…or as they know, the little Hershel. He looked so happy there, running across the field with his brother and just having a natural moment of peace.

“Poor Professor…” Luke mentioned as the other two children came to look as well, concern slowly forming in their face too. Especially Clive's, as he could almost guess what had happened to the two biological parents.

“It sadly is what it is.” Clive mentioned, before remembering that they were on a treasure hunt, meaning there was either a clue or some stuff here that could be used.

He paid his quick respect to the house as he instructed the two to search the kitchen and nearby areas, being extra careful as to not break any of the old porcelain.

“You know, sometimes I think I know Hershel. But then this happens.”

Randall, Henry and Angela were searching through the bathroom, which was weirdly special as well. The soaps surprisingly survived and smelled just as good with honey and vanilla as they did before, and the bathtub probably needed a rinse before it could be used again, overgrown by leaves and herbs.

“It's interesting to see this side of Hershel's childhood after all these years.” Henry picked up a photo frame, this one smaller but shoeing a young Theo holding a beautiful little snail in the rain. He guessed the frame was here to fit the style of the bathroom.

“I can agree…though, it's adorable that he lived in such a small village.” Angela said with a quiet hum, holding a flower which grew in almost the perfect environment…a purple coloured forget-me-not.

Almost perfectly fitting into a place that probably would have been forgotten by many, just not the ones who lived in it. Like Hershel.

Randall stayed quiet for once as he studied the towels, noticing many of them were star patterned or just in general had nice colors.

He hoped his best friend would be okay.

Emmy was almost surprised as the silence filled the basement, which had turned into an almost atmospheric greenhouse due to the amount of flowers, vines and herbs that grew here. The boxes needed to be pulled out so they could even be accessed.

“How old would you say these boxes are?” Dimitri asked as he sat beside Don Paulo, who was cutting open a box with his sharp nail. “Eh, that old professor must be over 30, so around that time.” With a quick slice, the box was opened, and the insides were shown to their own eyes.

Emmy noticed indirectly how much old clothing there was, mostly for children, as well as many, MANY old toys which hadn't been used in literally years. Yet surprisingly, they seemed to just be dusty as they were perfectly functional.

Don Paulo snickered as he picked up a bulldozer toy, shoeing it off to Dimitri…before almost tearing it apart for pieces by which it was smacked right out of his hand, making a whine angrily in response.

“We shouldn't play around. Come on, boys, let's search properly!” Emmy mentioned, pulling the two up so they could rip off more boxes as carefully as possible by not damaging the beautiful plants.

Descole and Bronev were practically not looking at eachother as they searched for clues and other letters, more focused on getting out of here as fast as possible to not relive the memories of the past.

Yet once or twice, neither of them couldn't resist looking at a picture or two, beautifully knitting together a story that showed a family having a trip together, never to be separated.

Bronev scoffed silently, even if he may have missed seeing his wide sweet smile and the glint in her eyes whenever the kids played together…surely a silent dress to never come true again.

Descole noticed and silently stared, giving a grim expression to the old man's behavior. “Maybe you could stop feeling sorry for yourself, you forced yourself into this stupid situation.” Bronev gave a glare back, more properly standing up.

“What do you know? You were a child, nothing more and nothing less…and I apologized, so stop getting mad at me already. It can't be changed.” Bronev argued, taking a step back as he noticed Descole also standing up.

“Oh, please. You were inside their base 24/7 and DIDN'T try to at least find a way out? I entered the base with Hershel and it wasn't that hard.” The two exchanged glares for a moment, probably debating if this should escalate in more ways than one.

…but both stayed silent as Bronev sighed, making a silent sign with his hand to just cut it off before either of them said things they really didn't want too.

It would be more heartbreak than anything and Descole's Ship had enough rooms to discuss the matter.

They were adults, they could deal with it privately later and not in a house of the past and repressed memories.

Especially not with electrocution collars on their legs.

They didn't risk anything as they continued searching around.

Hershel was alone.

He must have been spacing out heavily at the moment as Layton was in his old bedroom, with the little bed and everything. It had the toys, the old drawings and even the clean bedsheets there.

Starting to investigate, he kneeled down, almost sitting on the floor as he looked over different plushies and toys, remembering all those faint, faint memories he didn't want but definitely needed.

Hugging one of the plushies was a comfort to him, making him gently squeeze a Teddy bear he currently had in his hands as he shook just a tiny bit, trying not to make noise or cause a scene.

He rocked himself gently for a moment, staring down at some sweet drawings he made in the past to remind himself that he once lived here and had a good time.

Even if he felt the sad urge to rip the paper apart.

Hershel put the papers gently to the side, standing up a bit wobbly due to his memory flooded mind. He headed over to a wall and stared at a family photo with a beautiful red wooden frame, picking it up.

Staring seemed like a valid option as the corners of his eyes seemed almost blurry, making him focus more on each of his family members which he lost all in a different way.

His mother deceased.

His father a criminal.

And Descole-

Just a shadow of who he was once out of revenge.

Hershel took a quick breath, noticing he was starting to forget to breathe during all of this, putting the picture frames away from his shaky hands.

He tried composing himself, breathing in and out as steadily as he could while taking the nightstand as a support. When his composure returned and he could feel the air normally go through his lungs, he took notice that behind the frame a letter was hung in between.

He peeled out the note, sitting down on the small bed for a moment to read it himself.

“Bravo, you found my first note! Congratulations to the first find…and your first personal shock.” Layton made a confused noise, before he was full on shock from the leg collar.

He yelped but held his mouth shut as his body heavily vibrated, the electricity going through his body for just a moment.

Whoever this was, they liked torturing him already.

Shakely made Layton his way back to the entrance room, knocking on several doors and the staircase to alert that he found what they were looking for.

One by one, the people stepped in, Randall already had taken the note to show it to the others happily while reading it out for them…yet the text has changed from previously.

Or he just forgot to check if there might have been a back side.

“Okay, so…” Randall started happily, before reading out the note with his best impression of the mysterious voice.

“You have found the first hint, wonderful! Now to your second location…’Where even in the coldest person, there was a warm heart in the center of it all’.”

The others stared at eachother for quite a second, confused at the riddle presented to them…before Luke jumped up, pulling out his Notebook and happily writing the riddle down

“I got it! Do you remember the ice cave in Froenborg? That's where we find Aurora!” Luke mentioned with a proud grin where Layton approvingly nodded. “Ah, yes. That seems like a reasonable explanation.”

Yet the others still looked confused, understandably. “...Little update to the situation is needed here. Who is Aurora?” Dimitri asked curiously, while everyone nodded in agreement due to their need in explanation. 

“It's easy enough, really.” Layton mentioned as they started to walk out of the house, by which he kept the key just in case he ever wanted to return to this sweet house. “Aurora was the messenger of the azran, who is sadly dead now…but she was a wonderful and calm person, always being polite and kind.”

Emmy softly hummed at the memory, knowing that she had helped the girl look like a pedestrian and got a close bond to her. Even if she…did her thing at the end.

“Eh, pity. But we shouldn't stay in the past, we got a treasure to seek!” Don Paulo of course exclaimed, happily snickering as he before Raymond could stop him pulled the turn on button.

The machine furiously shook, starting up in a bumby way as Raymond with an annoyed gaze took back control of the ship before anyone face-planted onto the ground again.

Hoping to relax during the ride, everyone separated again swiftly, with Randall staying there for a moment with Hershel. “Soooo…you got two pairs of parents? I'm jealous.” Randall chuckled softly, not meaning it badly in any way.

Layton stared for quite awhile, processing that he presuming wouldn't tell that he got zapped by the collars once. “I wouldn't call it that. I have some preferred ones.” By that comment, Randall fakery gasped surprised, getting his best friend in a quick teasing group.

“The great Professor Layton thinks that someone in his family is greater than others? Unbelievable!” Layton laughed at that statement, having some fun with Rsndall while he did catch a glance of Descole and Bronev entering a silent room.

Probably for a discussion.

As everyone finally settled down, Layton gave the children the toy locomotive from their past adventure to play with, as he leaned back.

The next stop would be Froenborg, which he heard had been rebuilt.

Good enough.

He would be fine.

He always is.

Chapter Text

Layton took the smallest break.

He stood before himself in the mirror currently, hearing the wind buzz and a whole lot of talking behind the bathroom door, which seemed rather peaceful for once.

Layton noticed Descole and Bronev actually talking together, meaning they're either on better terms now or just are bored without anyone to talk to, even if before as they were in the private room, pretty much everyone heard a mix of shouting, screaming-

And multiple times a crash against a wall because they probably beat eachother up. Twenty minutes later they came out a bit more calm but severely bruised.

Knowing they had talked previously, it was good enough for both of them.

Randall had to hold Layton back so he wouldn't get in and try to stop them.

Now, he had watched the others have fun, yet he didn't feel…quite well at the moment after the visit to their old house. It felt surreal, and almost unreal that they just a…few minutes…an hour…or so…ago?

Maybe repressing it so much blurred out the time for him, who knows?

With a silent breath, he washed up his face, cleaning up the makeup he didn't need anymore and to bring his mind to the current state of time, which was the present.

He finally readjusted his coat as well as tophat and walked out of the bathroom, looking around for any kind of stuff he could do at the current moment to distract himself.

Talking to someone isn't a bad idea, so he decided for Dimitri at the moment.

The talks they had were usually short, but they were understanding and meaningful at every turn. Maybe this one could be softer than the usual rhythm.

“Greetings, Dimitri. How are you doing on this fine Zeppelin?” Layton greeted happily, standing beside the man in white who was currently looking out the window, admiring the clouds and the various colorful landscapes.

“It’s…fine, I'll say. It looks expensive, yet has a whirly calm atmosphere, even with all the weird people here.” A chuckle escaped both of them for a moment, before Layton looked over curiously. “Any specific ones?”

With a quick hum, a nod was made and the pointing finger was shown around…firstly to Don Paulo. Understandably, since he almost crashed the ship twice already, which could have resulted in a huge accident.

Next was Clive, yet it was a weak point as they both understood the poor boy’s situation perfectly well, making the finger quickly turn to another person.

This one was Descole, by which he got a question from. “Say, I heard it right when you said you were brothers, right?” Layton barely flinched but gave a quick nod, retaining the posture of a gentleman.

“You heard quite right, he…is a rather old relative of mine, as well as Bronev.” Layton quickly readjusted his coat again, almost as a comfort to keep peace to himself to look in a perfect gentlemanly manner.

“I admire your family. They both seemed to have achieved big things.” There he wanted to literally disagree for once, raising his hand but flopping it down as a gentleman never complains about their family.

“Yeah.” Layton for once rather blanky replied, adjusting his tophat as he stared into the rather heavily white clouds from getting into a Colder region.

With a side glance, he noticed Flora and Luke smudging the windows and making drawings in them while Clive watched, making him think about how young they were.

He gave a silent concerned stare to the collars on their legs, having forgotten them even if they were highly dangerous things. How inconsiderate of him.

“Anyway, what's this froenborg?” Dimitri asked, aware that they should soon be arriving at the distant lands where the snow covered every inch of land.

With a gentle hum, Layton replied. “Froenborg is a rather historical town in my opinion, as the Azran had left their messenger there. A beautiful young girl.” He traced over the window himself for once, looking down at the faint buildings that filled the area.

“It also had a great tragedy long ago where we took part off, where we had-” He stopped for a moment, considering if he should mention their…”Favour”, yet decided Dimitri shouldn't know that many details.

“Where we had helped the Azran understand not all humans are bad. Sadly, someone had to die for it, which…was the girl.” It wasn't a complete lie, but the memory made Layton shudder in complete silence. It was comforted by a quick pat on the shoulder though.

“Hey. She's probably in a better place now. Just like…Claire.” Dimitri had stopped for a moment to let Layton process the name, by which he let out the quietest whine of discomfort. 

He still wasn't completely over the mess that happened a few months ago, and it made his stomach turn horribly at the thought of having lost her again due to some stupid mistakes and politics.

With a sharp breath, he re-composed himself, quietly rubbing his coat to use it as a reminder that he was still here throughout everything.

“Uh, did ..did you know that Froenburg actually rebuilt itself completely with none of their citizens harmed?” Layton said, trying to shift the conversation as it made him heavily anxious at the moment. With an understanding nod, Dimitri replied. 

“Of course. I read it in the newspapers.” Dimitri adjusted his own hat and rose for a moment as he looked back at their little group, mixed wonderfully in personalities and colors. “It's good that everyone's alright.” He mentioned swiftly.

Layton took a second ro relax, noticing how even the cave seems to be rebuilt for some reason.

He wondered where all the money came from.

“Alright everyone. Just so that no one face-plants onto the floor again, I will inform you that we will land soon. Search for a seat or somewhere to hold onto.” Descole mentioned simply as he started ordering the ship around, making its way down as the children and adults all sat down.

With a quiet huff, Layton sat down on the couch beside Randall and the others, getting a soft look from Angela in the progress. “Say, do we get jackets for the cold region?” she asked curiously, while Henry gave a nod and pointed to the big closet.

As they had landed finally with a small rumble, the ones who didn't have automatically heated clothes like Don Paull proceeded to get themselves jackets in all their fitting colors, like Randal getting purple or Emmy getting a Sunflower yellow.

With that, the Roadtrip group stepped into the heavy snow, having now entered Froenborg.

“Ah, it's so Pretty here!” Angela mentioned as she picked up some snow, almost smirking as he hit Randall with a snowball right in the face, making him yelp audibly. 

Randall gasped, before laughing as well as a snowball fight started in between the Monte d'Or group as Henry started to for once have fun with this as well, forgetting the worries of this trip.

“Hm…it might be a bit nice if the others get a break. Afterall, this could be a nice road trip too, don't you think?” Layton said softly as he looked over to Descole, who looked at the snowy area with a soft stare for once.

Maybe he was remembering Aurora or maybe he felt guilty for how the town was almost destroyed back then, which wasn't really his fault, but Bronev's.

Speaking of Bronev, the man was seemingly talking to the citizens under Dimitri's and surprisingly Don Paulos eyes. But he probably just wanted to tag along to see if there was any interesting mechanics in this town.

He noticed how the others went off to explore town, leaving Emmy, Descole and himself off to their actual destination while the others enjoyed their trip, even if Emmy sneaked a few photos in here and there.

Layton didn't mind as much, being happy that for a moment some of his friends could actually enjoy their time in this snowy town of wonders.

“Ah, T-Tourists?” Quickly to recognize that voice, the three turned to Harald, the man who was extremely shy with socials. Deacole chuckled a bit and waved. “Ah, hello. I saw that the town has been rebuilt from its previous damages?”

“Damages? O-Oh-! Yes, it indeed h-has. I-It was a freckle, but we got t-through it together!” Harald tried sounding cheerful, but all four of them looked at eachother for five awkward seconds of silence.

“...You can leave.” Layton politely managed before a relieved sigh was heard, the man stomping off with a tiny wave as an apology to the encounter.

The trio then took off, going through the little igloos and different houses, the lights and people contributing to the warm and comforting feeling that had left many to stay here.

Emmy was happily taking pictures, even sometimes catching Randall getting souvenirs with his friends, or a Bronev almost smiling at all the stupidity which he is obviously trying to hide.

These photos were pretty much gold, as it included natural moments, not ones that were fakery posed for the ‘right time’.

Descole for once was actually admiring all the details he had missed during his massive research, touching the snow or bricks here and there and enjoying the little things like making small talk with people.

Layton noticed that he was the only one to not get a new coat, but that big Cape must be enough for warmth.

As they reached the big cave, Emmy looked a bit surprised to say the least. “Professor, the whole cave is rebuilt!” She mentioned, pointing at the huge opened cave which had previously been destroyed due to the fact it was actually an underground dungeon.

“How interesting…maybe the people wanted it rebuilt as a landmark?” The Professor questioned, yet Descole interfered for a moment. “Without the Azran technology and ruins? What would be so interesting about that?” It was a good point.

“Well, we should investigate first before judging the bigger image!” Emmy simply started to step through the snow, making soft crunch noises as the snow just buckled beneath her boots, as well as the boots from Descole and Layton.

Entering the cave was interesting…as everything seemed like before.

It was warm there.

“T-The- Azran technology is still here-?” Descole sounded shocked, touching the feeble metal…which wasn't actually metal at all, but rather finely made steel.

“No. I think this cave actually has been made into a tourist sight.” Layton noted as he traced over the steel that was coloured beautifully to respect the azrans past, not being poorly made but self-made with love and effort.

Taking another head to get deeper into the cave felt like a short flashback for the professor, noticing the icicle on the floor, sharp as ever to be able to cut someone's throat.

Emmy had also noticed and audibly flinched, looking over to the shaken professor who had spaced out for another second. “...Professor?’ She mumbled ashamed, but Layton composed himself, because a true gentleman never breaks down.

At least in public.

“Ah, it's alright, Emmy.” Layton didn't know that he mostly just mumbled that, proceeding onward before he was suddenly grabbed by the arm. “No, wait-”

Laytons past assistant looked rather unwell with the ides of this just being brushed off, as she didn't think that there was ever the most proper apology. She even cried in his shoulder even though he was the one supposed to do that!

“Please. Let me give a proper apology to you. I insist.” Descole stepped back for a moment to respect their privacy and Layton silently stared, not knowing if he wanted to right now deal with emotional baggage.

But he couldn't really change her mind now, could he?

“...Go on, then.” Layton nodded, crossing his arms and fiddling with his coat as he was getting anxious all over again over a little apology he hadn't gotten from a lot of people.

Emmy took a deep breath and then started to talk.

“I have been a terrible friend, lying to you for almost two years while being your trusted assistance. You told me your worries and I completely threw them away whenever I needed help or just craved comfort, betraying you in the end for nothing.” Emmy started, trying to maintain eye contact out of respect.

Layton was listening intensely, forcing his mind not to space out and his eyes to not tear up due to an apology.

“I know you forgive me and that you don't want an apology since I was manipulated, but I think you deserve something simple.” She slowly put her hands on his shoulders.

“I'm sorry that I betrayed you, Professor Layton.”

For a moment he stared into oblivion, trying to not bawl right then and there from the pure happiness he felt. He felt like he didn't deserve such an apology from his assistant, but didn't want to upset her.

“Thank you. I happily accept it.” Layton mentioned, forcing his face straight up so the facade that he put up for a moment didn't just shatter under the pressure.

He made a quick motion with his hand, hoping for them to follow him on through this so they didn't have to talk about all the emotions Layton didn't want to show.

And luckily, they did. The group proceeded through the little puzzles, the luckily de-activated fire machines that hit Descole before, making the masked man grumble in response when they passed by.

“Hm.” Layton hummed to himself, rethinking some things as they hadn't talked about the voice's identity for a while. It didn't sound like anyone he knew due to the heavy distortion, but the man must have a lot of money.

Who else rants out a whole theatre, builds multiple highly dangerous collars to put them in danger and possibly rebuild this cave? But that was just a theory for now, which he had to ask the citizens later.

Finally reaching the core, his chest tightened to an extent that he didn't think was possible from the stress, making him keel over for a second without vomiting. “Ah, Hershel-?” Descole said with a tiny bit of worry evident in his voice.

Emmy helped Layton sit down for a moment, because he was obviously in pain from just seeing this contraption. It was of course fake, but the mere sight brought painful memories in.

The Crystal's…that highly advanced technology that didn't exist.

The sacrifice they made.

Aurora.

He groaned silently, hating to be this weak in front of other people, holding onto Descole’s cape and arm for support as he stood back up. “...This is where Aurora died.” Descole mentioned silently.

The Crystal's shined blandly onto the floor, being nothing more than mere replicas of what they were supposed to be, and most of the stuff in the room was in the wrong positions or forms.

Like it was working from a description instead of an image.

Layton started to analyze the room with his little group, touching the Crystal's and finding interest in the wrongly designed room. It had so many flaws and wrong details, it really did seem like a failed try at the original.

“Professor, Look over here!” Emmy shouted, the room echoing her face infidelity as she pointed at the capsule. The one where Aurors got usually stabbed in, which was closed and sealed off.

Curiosity got the better of Layton, and he-

He.

Opened the capsule.

He regretted to an extent he couldn't imagine as the whole thing felt like a stupid blur.

It was a doll, this time with such an extreme effort that even the emotionless and dead eyes from the old Aurora felt familiar and warm, but now it just hurt him so extremely.

Descole had flinched as the doll fell out, showing a description above calling her just “The messenger” with a description that was so, so accurate.

He always felt sick in his stomach at seeing dead people he knew to well being- there. Even if not alive.

Made him want to vomit.

Layton didn't know what was happening st the moment, as his vision blurred and his breathing for once quickened up for some reason.

He tried composing himself, but he choked on his own air as he coughed and shook.

Registering a faint touch, he grabbed it harshly for support as another came to rub the back in comforting circles, making the moment less excruciating.

His hand was pressed and he noticed it followed a rhythm, even if the ringing in his ear seemed to take over the whole thought area of his brain.

He followed it with his breathing, remembering a panic attack formula where the student could try different methods to get a person's breathing back into the normal flow when they couldn't listen to them.

Was he having a panic attack over nothing?

With a few silent presses, Layton slowly regulated his breathing, his lungs and throat not feeling clogged up with cotton as he stared down onto the puppet.

“Are you okay?” Layton heard from Descole, who looked for once extremely concerned for the professor who just had half a panic attack from just seeing a hyper realistic doll 

Which he didn't blame or shame him for of course, it was just extremely concerning how far repressed emotions and memories could bring a person.

“I'm fine.” Layton addressed, almost wishing there was a puzzle after all of this emotional baggage had been put on him. They were a distraction, but currently through his utterly filled mind there wasn't any to be found.

Kneeling down, he inspected the doll with a shiver as the face brought back memories of a girl who didn't know much better due to her amnesia.

He shook his head, slowly noticing a note in her hand, having made a cut in there to stay just right there for him to retrieve the note in a stupid and painful way like he hasn't had enough - excuse his language - shit to deal with.

“Here, let me read it, Professor.” Emmy politely mentioned as she took the paper from him, to which he winced in pain as if she didn't trust him to read a simple note in the state he was currently in.

“I hope you had fun with your little doll friend, she was handmade by one of my friends. But for now, it was nice seeing your reactions! For a reward, a shock!”

Emmy looked confused for a moment but Laytom quickly grabbed her arm as the shock came to share the pain and so the electricity wouldn't hurt her body.

She let out a short scream before coughing, making Descole hold them both for a moment so they could calm down.

“...is this what happened to you last time-?! Why didn't you tell us?” Descole asked concerned with a hint of anger, looking at Layton as he had flinched from the try of confrontation.

He pulled down his hat ashamed, really not wanting to talk about how he set someone in danger due to his insecurities. Luckily, a brother can read another and Descole calmed down.

“...I'll inform the others right away.” Descole said more calmly as he left the cave, leaving Emmy and Layton to their own as the assistant looked over as the shock passed by.

“This..is weird.” Emmy suddenly mentioned, making Layton perk up confused by what Emmy meant. “How is a letter shocking us?”

That was a good question.

Layton started to consider the possibilities, ignoring that he was just almost confronted by his own brother and walked troughout the room, before finally noticing something.

“Ah.” Layton hummed with a smile. “I got it. Let's go.” Emmy wanted to question what he meant, but knew she would get nothing more than the answer that she is getting told later when he got the bigger picture right.

As they started to leave the cave, the others were already approaching, mostly in concern and worry as Flora came to hug Emmy and Luke hugged Layton. “Are you two okay?”

“Of course, my boy.” Layton mumbled as he patted the head, while Emmy came over to inform them more properly what had happened.

Randall gave a concerned side glance to Hershel, who had approached slowly again and silently rubbed his arm to put down his stress levels. “So, we got another Letter.”

It was an awkward mention, but it made some people share worried glances as he opened up the letter and turned it around to look for the riddle which was hidden there.

With a quick glance, he prepared to read it.

“In the darkest of lands, a bird resides happily in his home.”

That actually gave more confused looks than conclusions as the group shared the piece of paper along them to figure out what they meant.

“What is this baloney? Why are we talking about birds now?’ Don Paulo complained as he tried crumbling the paper, but it was taken out of his hand by Emmy.

As they all thought, it was Randall who silently mumbled. “A bird's home..so a nest?” He mentioned without much care before Bronev perked up with surprise for once.

“That's it! The Targent base!” Bronev mentioned, slowly walking over - with guidance from Descole who obviously still hated and didn't trust him - over to the ship, now knowing their next destination as the others followed suit.

Yet, Luke stopped as he noticed Layton just standing there for a moment. “Professor…?’ He said silently, before Layton flinched and shook his head.

“Ah, sorry, My boy. It appears I got distracted for a moment.” Layton excused himself to walk forward to the ship, but half the group could just tell there was something wrong with Layton as they entered the ship.

The ship would take a moment to heat itself up to drivable condition, so everyone took a moment to change their clothes out from the wet and cold coats with the warmth of the ship.

Clive for once was the one staring at Layton, who looked as if he was currently not connected to their world.

“Hey, Earth to Layton?” Clive mentioned as he touched the shoulder, making Layton flinch for just a moment as he stared at the kid like he just told him his parents died.

“I'm fine.” He repeated once again, silently grabbing one of the blankets hidden underneath the couches and pulling it over himself for comfort, which Clive left him there understandably.

The engines slowly defrosted, going carefully into the air and back into a warmer region to where the world would be full of steam.

Some of Laytons friends tried talking to him about the incident, but he merely excused himself, and it was in the evening anyway.

The way to the specific locations was significantly longer than the time they were there.

Everyone had settled for either the couch or a room on the ship, while Layton choose to reside by the Monte d’Or group by the couches.

It should feel comforting to be around his friends, but he still felt sick from the Aurora doll encounter.

He didn't sleep.

He couldn't.

Who would after such stuff happening today.

But he will be fine.

He always is.

….

Right?

Chapter Text

The night was passing too slowly in Layton's opinion.

The ship had been in autopilot mode for quite awhile, passing over dark environments where you could see oceans, buildings and more glistening in their beautiful light.

Sitting by the window was rather calming, a blanket already dropped around his shoulders without much care and effort as he entertained himself by watching the scenery before him

He yawned softly, but didn't dare sleep to prevent himself from getting horrible nightmares again, guessing that previously by his nap they just didn't appear because Randall watched over him.

The Professor was heavily aware that his brain and mind would never let him sleep without those baffling nightmares and complete lies that his mind told him, which he sadly sometimes believed.

Hershel silently debated on what to do, since it has been a while now and he completely forgot the time of the night, but he guessed it was around 4 to 5 AM.

Deciding to actually get himself something though, he stood up, knowing there was a little area for just that.

With a huff he went over to the small warehouse-like room they had, filled with several food items and of course what he preferred, tea.

Quickly picking out an earl gray tea package, milk and a lemon, Layton got over to the nearest kettle to boil some water. As it started brewing, he quietly held the blanket close for warmth.

It was the least of comfort on this lonely night.

He was starting to rub hastily on it, keeping down several yawns as he was about ready to go back to sleep if the kettle wasn't waiting for itself to finish.

Practically using every excuse in the book to not sleep wasn't gentlemanly behavior, but they had to excuse him if he clearly isn't able to sleep.

So that was another excuse.

“Hersh?”

Alright, maybe he almost hit his best friend over the head with a mug on that one, but quickly stopped himself as he stared at the red haired man, the concern shown all over his face.

He quickly composed himself, brushing off some of the blanket as well as his coat and took steady breaths to remain calm.

“Hello, My friend. What are you doing here on this fine morning?” Layton mumbled in a way as he stared at Randall, before glancing back at the water preparing itself to bubble so he could use it.

“Hershel, It's 3 AM.”

"I'm aware."

Silence filled the quiet room as the hot water was done and Layton picked up the kettle and poured his water in, now preparing the tea with the fine stuff they have on the ship.

As it was done, he slowly sipped on it, giving a relaxed sigh. “Just didn't sleep well. That's all.” Layton lightly excused himself, looking away to the metal on the wall and probably oblivion as his iris was pretty black from all the night activities he had going on.

Randall didn't quite believe the man with his for now small eyebags, but quietly started rubbing his arm as he spoke again. “...Fine, but please go to sleep later, Alright?” He asked, hoping Hershel would agree.

Layton grumbled lightly, not liking the offer that much but not wanting to make his friend more worried and concerned than he already is so he lightly nodded.

“Ah, I almost forgot my manners-! Would you like a cup of tea as well?” Layton silently looked at Randall, who gave a quiet nod but made a hand motion to show that it shouldn't be that much, but still included some sugar pieces.

Softly chuckling, Layton prepared the sweet delight of tea and gave it to Randall, letting him take a wonderful sip together as they both relaxed for a moment in their sweet, sweet silence.

The red haired boy slowly grabbed some cookies from a nearby cabinet which he probably searched through the day before and offered to the professor, which was happily accepted and eaten as they both enjoyed the moment.

Hershel couldn't help but yawn again, stretching himself a bit as he put the tea cup down. He was rather tired, but now wasn't the time to take lousy naps that would definitely bring nightmares with them.

“Someone needs more sleep…” Randall lightly teased as they made their way back over to the couch, slightly shuffling as they got one another's blanket and were making themselves comfortable.

“Say, why are you awake anyway, my friend?” Layton tilted his hat a little as he looked at Randall, who gave a disappointed huff while pulling the blanket closer, almost as if he's protecting himself.

“...Couldn't sleep either. But with you here, I'll bet that will change!” Randall approvingly hummed as he laid down, slowly heading with his head to Hershel's lap but quietly looking up to ask for permission.

Once an awkward nod was shared, Randall fell asleep rather promptly on the professor lap, all tucked up and warm as Layton stayed up again anyway.

He watched the sun rise, letting the clouds become visible and the natural light flood in the room with some quiet beams that brightened up the day.

One by one, people stumbled out of their room at about 8 AM, which he couldn't blame anyone after yesterday. He hoped they were comfortable even with the little straps around their legs.

“Good morning, Professor.” Luke said softly, sitting down beside him as he wrapped an arm around the sleep deprived archaeologist who probably saw half a blur. 

“Good morning Luke, and hello Flora and Clive.” Layton mentioned as he watched the two other children or as one would say, two adopted orphans sit down on the couch to relax.

Most had their sleep wear still one, or people like Don Paolo were still wearing their old clothes as they didn't need to change due to some technology stuff he didn't care about.

Emmy was smiling, her short hair brimming in the fresh sunlight while a Descole for once barely wore his usual outfit, but Layton knew everyone would eventually change out.

Unlike him, who was extremely stubborn and did not change his clothes during the entire night, but didn't tell anyone that at any point.

“Okay, it's all so far stable…” Layton heard Descole mumbled as he checked the deck, making sure nothing had happened during the night, which he could have stopped anyway since he was awake and could fight if anyone broke in.

Ignoring his sleepiness now, he noticed they must be close to the Targent base as the steam hit the glass and the sky seemed such a dark red tint now then the previous extremely dark night before.

“I think this one was abandoned after I left. Nobody used it anymore as it felt useless.” Bronev mentioned as Descole shared a silent glare with him before he was ready to take off down. “We should be fine, per say.” He added.

Angela and Henry were currently watching the steamy little clouds, with Henry looking slightly worried over to Layton. “What kind of place is this..?” A shiver ran through their spine at the sight of this abandoned nest.

Layton quietly got beside them, taking in the fact they were the first to get dressed normally again. “It was like a construction site for pure evil. It's easier to explain it that way.” He noticed how they weren't attacked or shot, so it really is abandoned.

Angela placed a careful hand on the glass, nodding firmly as Henry patted her shoulder comfortingly.

As they sat down on the ground, the dust had settled. The door opened to the outside, and it reeked practically like old oil and thousand year old dust.

People stepped down one by one, noticing how weirdly warm it was in this region.

Probably due to the old gases and the somewhat bad air flow here.

After a few steps, they almost mentally all agreed to not leave each other's side, aware of the consequences due to the old fashioned horror movies that warned them about that stupidity on unknown terrain.

Atleast for most of them.

With each step, the metal underneath them clackered firmly in its abandoned state that hasn't been used for quite some months now, plants and mold growing on the sides.

“This is truly disgusting.” Dimitri noted as he traced over the walls with his gloves and let out a whine as he removed some leftover moss from his gloves, clearly disgusted.

The Area was infested with bugs as well, making Don Paolo and surprisingly Henry jump for a moment or two at the little critters infesting the place, gnawing on mold and leftover moss.

Soon enough, the entrance of the building stood before the group and they were debating on who was to enter first.

“I would say Bronev, but there is a chance this could be one of his schemes.” Layton noted and Descole gave immediately an appreciated approving nod. “Maybe Descole due to knowledge?”

With a quick glance spread between eachother, they decided to let the masked man go on with his nightly blade and overall knowledge of the place.

Each step everyone took up these stairs felt a bit hard due to the pure amount there were and the fact that they were fascinated by the now abandoned stature in the middle, not showing anymore signs.

It did not glow anymore, being nothing more than a black, weakly showing symbol pillar.

“It’s quite sad to see the pillar in such a state, but it seems the Azran moved on due to our…sacrifice.” Layton mentioned, yet Emmy still took some pics out of respect and for her newspapers job once they are complete with this treasure hunt.

During their time off, someone must have added new puzzles, as the locks were refined and freshly polished.

Pretty much the only thing in this building in such a state

Kneeling down, the professor already groaned.

Sometimes Layton had to solve sliding puzzles for the door which he didn't particularly dislike, he just kinda was not in the mood for mind-wrecking puzzles while on zero hours of sleep.

Every door clicked open so far, and every step felt more excruciating since he was doing most of the work already, yet couldn't blame the others since it wasn't an excuse.

Stairs. A travelers worst enemy for sure.

Finishing up to the nearly last floor, Many took a little time to breathe due to the amount of stairs climbing crushing their legs and stamina.

“Is everyone alright?” Layton asked politely as he rubbed Luke's back and made sure everyone got their good break that they well deserved.

Which he did too, but he didn't like realizing that.

Workaholic.

Quiet nods and huffs were exchanged while Clive and Flora were currently looking down the big staircase which they had just finished. “This tower is huge!” Flora was quite impressed.

“And you went up here already, Papa?” She asked happily, but noticed Layton doing his hobby in a rather annoyed fashion.

Now, Layton was well occupied with a simple sliding block puzzle he thought an evil targent member themselves put there to screw with him.

He could do this.

Maybe it was just rigged.

But it was taking him over ten minutes already to solve this puzzle and people were staring quite confused at the professor..

“Are you-”

“Yes, I am soon done, now let me concentrate.” 

It was a clear complaint as Layton grumbled, and the others went over to join the kids looking down at the staircase and some at the giant pillar, admiring its beauty.

“It's a wonder that we even got up here. Again” Descole mentioned swiftly as he scoffed at the fact they got here slower than last time, but the whole group thing was slowing them down anyway.

It was also his fault in a way as he kept trying to trip Bronev so he would fall down the stairs.

Layton secretly scoffed, getting back to his puzzle so they could get truth the door.

Purely concentrating on getting this puzzle done, he ignored the little questions or try at small talk the others attempted, while he slowly started to sweat from this puzzle.

Till he finally solved it.

“Finally-!” Layton for once groaned, but kept it silent so no one would see that he got frustrated with a puzzle. A gentleman always keeps his patience.

The door unlocked silently, making a soft click as the room revealed itself.

It at first seemed rather…uninteresting.

A bunch of boxes replaced the usual office, cobwebs, bugs and more being around the place as it showed that it wasn't touched for quite a while for sure.

“Hmm.” Layton mumbled to himself while Luke ran up to one of the boxes with Clive and opened it up slowly, using a pocket knife Clive kept for unimportant purposes.

Yet as it opened, there were rather interesting objects.

“Why do you need this many broken toys, Grandpa?” Clive asked more as an insult to Bronev, pulling out a ripped apart puzzle and a smashed train, which showed to have been completely destroyed.

Yet Layton and Descole catched their breath at the sight, showing they knew which toys they were.

Those were THEIR toys.

“Ah, I remember. I destroyed them out of anger.” Bronev said without as much as a flinch, not even giving a little bit of shame from his actions, even if he literally got beaten up for it.

Which was Descole's next thought out move.

As the professor noticed Descole trying to leap at their father, he immediately shot up, wrapping his arms around the waist and keeping him in a tight grip to keep Descole from beating up the man who he couldn't help but feel ashamed of aswell.

“Descole, wait!” Layton yelled as he held the masked brother with both arms, with Deacole harshly fighting to try and get out of the grip to punch the man in the face and give him punishment.

This seemed like an appropriate reaction in the right place.

“YOU STUPID FRAUGHT! YOU HAVENT CHANGED A BIT!” Descole fought harshly, almost kicking his brother in the stomach just to get out to kick the man, making Layton cough and heave a bit as he hit quite specific spots.

Yet he didn't let go, even if he almost vomited his leftover tea which probably would have resulted in a wet mess on Descole's beloved hat.

“This isn't worth it! He won't learn anything anyway! And you beat him up yesterday already!” Layton nudged for the others to get out of the room, to which the adults helped lead the children and irresponsible geniuses out.

It was for the better.

Bronev backed away out of fear but also anger, thinking this was his son disrespecting him again as he threw insults and other complaints…even if that was completely his fault.

“YOU'RE A LIAR! YOUR A HORRIBLE AND DISGUSTING FATHER!” Descole yelled, yet Layton noticed his brother tearing up almost and losing in strength due to the constant struggling.

He didn't deserve any of this.

With a sigh, he helped Deacole out the door to the others, where Dimitri and Henry were so kind to give the man a moment. “I'll.. be right back.” Layton informed them gently, giving a sign for Emmy and Randall to keep watch which they responded with a thumbs up.

They were all caring people if they wanted to be and would understand the man needed comfort.

Layton re-entered the room, staring at the man who looked rather disappointed at the unloved brother, which was Descole. “What was that idiotic anger about?” He complained without realizing his mistakes, even after a proper talk.

Layton didn't know how furious he was from the inside, but silently took deep breaths, unclenching his fists slowly as he tried calming himself.

He was logical.

A gentleman does not show anger or hatred to a family member unless necessary.

“Bronev, I can give you an explanation to what happened, if you want.” Layton noted as he got over the boxes, opening them one by one and inspecting their precious memories that were broken in sheer anger and guilt.

“Fine by me. Would make more sense then to stupidly scream at me.” Bronev had the audacity to say that in front of his kid and it made Layton have a real hard time keeping himself in order, by which he meant resisting the urge to punch the man in the face.

He quietly picked up some ripped pictures and broken frames, shaking just a bit but not so it was noticeable as he traced with a thumb Over the cracked glass.

Those memories were broken, never to be repaired.

“Look. Descole is your son. Some of these things we-” Layton stopped for a moment as he catched a peak of his mother's old self-made plushie, broken and ripped apart by forgotten love in pure rage.

His stomach tightened just a bit as he buried it among other broken toys.

“He. Loved. From what I remember, he loved playing with them dearly, even if my memory is faint.” His heart was beating silently, making him want to tear up and cry at all those vanished feelings he wanted to keep so dearly.

The sympathy for his father was just gone.

“Descole lost his family because of you. Everything he loved. You never did him anything good.” Layton's fist shook, getting the same urge as his brother had just a moment ago. “You're not a good father currently.” He mentioned aswell.

With a deep breath and a silent calming method, he huffed.

“Try at least to be someone who can love his children, okay?”

With that, Layton ended the conversation and found the next letter attached to a not ripped drawing, which was way more messy and sad, showing just his brother and him.

Cruel.

But he suddenly had an idea.

“ ..Could you read this?” Layton asked silently as he gave the letter to bronev, feeling a bit ashamed but also knew Bronev needed this once.

Give him this one, his father was cruel.

“Whatever.” Bronev mumbled, looking down at the letter to read it.

“You found a painful letter, congratulations! Hints on the back side as always!”

Yet the next shock didn't hit Bronev as intended-

It still hit Layton, making him yelp yet cover his mouth as it hurt more than usual, making him feel faint and shaky as Bronev for once held him by grabbing the arm.

“...W-Wha…?” Layton mumbled, before realizing something. A detail which he hand considered due to another clue.

So that's what.

Oh, that's just utterly cruel.

If it is what he thinks it might be.

He shook it off, no pun intended, and silently mumbled a thanks as he motioned for Bronev to follow him. “You stay behind everyone, thank you.” It wasn't a threat and didn't sound like it when it came from Layton.

He silently left the room with Bronev to see a for once happy face, by which he meant that Descole was snickering with some of his friends.

Layton smiled softly at the sight that the others cheered up Descole, but quickly was ignored by Bronev who pushed him away and walked past, probably just wanting to get back to the ship.

“It’s good to see you feeling better, Descole.” Layton mentioned firmly, to which the reaction from Descole could simply be described as embarrassment and surprise, but quickly calmed down to his usual politeness.

“Mhm, right…” Deacole pulled the cape around his body, covering up any other part as Flora came and hugged her adoptive father. “He said that he saw you as a brother!” She mentioned happily as his masked brother snapped his head over.

“I-I did not!” He said embarrassed as Emmy chimed in. “He told rather adorable stories about you as children! You both were so adorable!” Emmy snickered with the others as Descole claimed them as sneaky traitors, making Layton snicker himself.

The anger vanished with that, leaving warmth and hope in his heart 

Finally they went down the stairs back down to safe ground, now having it easier since the stairs went downstairs instead, which prevented ever-lasting leg pain.

“Can't believe Bronev destroyed all your toys though, Hersh..such a jerk!” Angela mentioned angrily as Randall and Henry nodded in agreement, since it wasn't fair at all to the siblings.

While Descole gave an appreciated nod, Layton could only mildly hum in response as they got out of the forgotten building and to the huge abandoned terrain.

As they reached the ship, Bronev seemed to be a bit seething in anger cause of something as he stood beside the oil tank. “Descole, I thought you had prepared?” He complained which made Descole scowl.

“Of course, but since when did you ever care about my efforts?” His brother mentioned with a fierce glare, which was quickly returned by their father who looked more annoyed than anything. 

“Since they don't work! We're out of Oil!” That was one statement that wasn't expected.

As Bronev was slowly explaining, he had investigated and the oil tank was completely empty, with no refills there. Of course, Descole’s main concern was being completely suspicious of the man going without permission around the ship, but atkeast Raymond kept watch.

A quick suggestion was completed in where the people searched for old oil canisters left and right since there were plains stored here and materials before it was completely abandoned to be nothing.

While some only got parts that were thrown right at their head for being stupid, others just found quite the souvenirs of old art and diaries…and creatures like rats which made some people scream in terror horribly.

As Randall had yet found though, they were multiple canisters to be found, which all had s differnt liquid on them to be deciphered by the label. 

Luckily, he favour puzzles and could easily with the clues given by the design figure out which was the right one.

Henry did the carrying out of respect, holding the canister tightly while Angela made sure nothing was dropped and Randall cheered the man excitingly on from the side do they could reach the ship in time.

As everyone finally came back, Descole grabbed the papery almost prepared to read it like always so they could go on on their merry adventure…

Yet Henry tapped the shoulder firmly, whispering something into Descole's ear.

“Are you sure? Wouldn't that be kind of dangerous because of-...yes, I get it…alright, alright.” A short discussions seems to have been made before Descole perked up simply, ready to show the new plan.

“Everyone, we will be taking a quick stop at Monte d'Or! It will be a risky but quick break for everyone!” Layton looked a bit surprised by that due to the risk of everyone getting shocked for not obliging, or worse.

“It will also be handed as an resource center so we this time don't have to search around a dirty factory.” To that, there was cheering of course, as no one wanted to go trough a bug infested and molding place again just for some oil.

“Hey, Layton! How is it in Monte d'Or?” Don Paulo asked for once as he came before him, immediantly and rightly assuming cue to the reaction that he was in the huge resort before.

“Ah, it's rather nice and free. You'll probably enjoy it.” Layton admitted with a soft chuckle, but Flora pulled harshly on the hair once to pull him down. “Don't you dare kidnap someone.” She said, trying to sound threatening even if it was cute.

“Can't promise anything! I might even impersonate a person, like you!” For once, he quickly put on a costume to mock Flora with it, with them now arguing over such a simple thing as Clive tried to separate them.

“Hershel, did you miss Monte d'Or by any chance? The last time wasn't as pleasant, i admit …” Angela mentioned softly and sadly as she knew he never got the break that he rightfully deserved, just having to run around frequently so they could uncover who the masked gentleman was.

While also having his dead-yet-now-rwborn best friend reminded everywhere.

Layton gave a comforting smile and put a hand on her shoulder. “It'll be fine and besides, the people are really nice.” He mentioned with a smile, slowly letting her prepare with Henry as he went over to Emmy once. 

“I'm so excited! The newspapers are gonna love this for sure.” Emmy said excitingly as she shot a picture or two of the group. “Imagine the headlines: “Deadliest Treasure Hunt ever seen!” She was halfly joking and halfly being serious about that statement due to their current situation.

The Professor hummed at that and watched the clouds for quite awhile, letting people pass by for a small talk, but not much else.

He listened to Dimmitri and Bronev getting along, he was used to the kids talking, the Monte d'Or group was happy and Emmy was snapping pictures like crazy.

Everything is fine.

It would be fine..

Just like him.

….

 ….

Completely alright.

Chapter Text

The clouds looked particularly interesting today.

Maybe staring at them straight for 3 hours wasn't the best idea, but what else did he want to do currently while they were so close to their destination.

Talk to other people which were busy with their own business? Possibly make make more tea, by which he had just finished a whole kettle? Cry in the bathroom?

Okay, cut the last one.

But the point was that he was just waiting for them to arrive at Monte d'Or, which was a city he held dear but kept away due to many, MANY unwanted memories he didn't want to mention anywhere here.

It wasn't that he hated the town in particular, Nono, he loved it dearly to its design and to the full meaning of friendship and to Reunion with the ones you lost previously.

But he rather ignores memories he didn't want.

Trying to distract himself one last time before the ship would land, he walked off to the engine room while saying hello to the others to seem responsive, and not like a ball of anxiety ready to burst.

He sat down by some of the machines, inspecting them completely and even rearranging some wires which weren't used at the moment and looked wrong to him.

A simple habit.

He traced over the somewhat dusty buttons that nobody used, yet he didn't dare press them. He could say that the ship was getting older and more familiar to him.

Especially after spending more than a week in this ship, counting the days from his last adventure too as they were just too similar, also including a hunt for treasure.

But now it wasn't the sacred Azran eggs, but rather a pile of hints that would bring them to some treasure that might turn out to be some weapon or nothing special at all.

Layton dreaded that thought.

He was mentally preparing himself aswell to visit the place that was the Town of Miracles.

The burning lights that shined onto his eyes and burned them to a crisp, the constant chatter that is gonna increase due to how special this place is, the constant memories-

All things to consider when your a tra…intelligent. Archaeologist.

He silently shock his head and composed himself once again, tilting the hat just at the right angle and the coat to its perfect state so there wouldn't be anymore crumbs in it.

He loved his clothing very dearly, as it was part of his Gentleman look.

Slowly he walked over to Randall, tapping the shoulder lightly as the red haired boy smiled at the sight of the Professor. “Are you excited to be back here, Hershel? It has been quite awhile!” He mentioned happily, looking out the window and touching the glass eagerly as the rainbow like lights already erupted into the sky.

The group was in awe as they were just up close in the sky, seeing the miracles go through this beautiful combination while the autopilot handled the ship, making sure no one would get hurt.

“It is truly a sight to behold.” Dimitri said calmly, noticing the roses like lights pouring up to the sky to slash through the clouds and end the misery someone may have. “Indeed.” Clive had hummed back happily, for once happy with the situation.

Layton calmed down as well, readjusting his coat again as he found this moment just nice as there was no arguing or weird things going on for once.

Just a treasure hunt group watching amazing and colorful lights.

Finally though, the ship landed steadily, letting the door open as the others started walking out one by one. The sun was shining in the middle of the sky, and the various people were greeting the owners of Monte d'Or.

“Mister Henry! Miss Angela! There you are!” Mordy had happily waited for the two owners to come home, greeting them politely as the the others were distracted for a bit of the size of Monte d'Or, seeming almost like it's own land from this angle.

“I didn't know it was THIS big…” Clive said impressed, having only known Monte d'Or from several newspapers clips he remembered from the past. “Agreed. It's rather impressive for just 20 years.” Dimitri joined in, looking at the houses happily which were all decorated in lights and little cracks here to show it was almost a bit old.

Don Paulo in the meanwhile was already heading off, probably to cause chaos and forcing Dimitri to follow him so no chaos happens. “We will meet again later!” Dimitri yelled before running after hastily, even if it was a struggle due to his age and Injured legs.

Descole and Bronev forcefully went together as well, kicking or hitting eachothers in the shoulders due to annoyance because they needed the supplies for the ship and were the only ones who properly knew it inside and out.

But they still hated eachother, so Layton could just view from the distance as they both almost started fights several times in public.

Emmy chuckled softly as she patted Flora's head in a kind manner, having gotten closer to the little girl in a quick manner. “How about me and Luke showing you Monte d'Or? If it's okay for the professor, that is.” Flora almost looked beggingly over to her adoptive Papa, looking excited beyond relief to see this town.

“Ah, of course…I trust you too will take care of her. That's what an assistant would have done.” Layton softly mentions as he pats Emmy's shoulder, fully accepting that's she's now a photographer but reminding her that she's still a wonderful assistant at his heart.

Emmy simply smiled, giving a reassuring thumbs up as he went to show the three children the town like an excited Caretaker, to which he could only chuckle too.

“She's a rather nice woman.” Angela mentioned as she looked at Henry, who nodded in response bedore Randall got beside Layton and grabbed his hand, ready to take off and go on adventures.

“Come on, I gotta show you around, old pal! So much has changed since the whole Azran thing!” Randall said happily as he dragged Layton around, who audibly yelled but slowly laughed as he ran with his best friend over the stoney paths, trying to not hit someone while having fun.

“Wait for us, you two!” Angela yelled after happily as she and Henry ran after, sure to catch up eventually.

They soon reached the main plaza, beautifully decorated and formed due to the Azran accident with many stairs and stuff so it wasn't that obvious that you could have died there if not careful.

That was just for them to know.

“Henry has added many more houses and attractions everywhere without harming the glyphs.” Randall mentioned happily as he pointed to structures that weren't there before and new stands. “Heck, it looks even more magical now if I were to say it!” 

Hershel couldn't help but agree as he saw how perfectly the still glowing glyphs fit into the beautiful scenery already present at day and night. They must have been kept alive due to great care.

“I can agree with you, Randall. They are nice to look at.” Hershel had hummed as he followed Randall, stopping just a bit so he could also talk to Henry and Angela who almost didn't catch up at this point.

“Randal's always so excited with you, Hershel!” Angela chuckled happily as he nudged Layton, making him blush softly and put his hat over his eyes as he walked along the crowded paths.

“Ah, Thanks. I'm happy when Randall's happy.” With a quick glance, he went over to the small train that was newly used to get all over Monte d'Or sitting beside Randall as he rambled on and on about all the new stuff.

“-There's also a new shopping center, the amount of stairs there are built are unbelievable and Henry used the fake park to make new attractions!” Randall had already moved over to the professor, pretty much being directly in his face.

But Layton didn't mind.

“Yes, it has been a rather busy time for all of us. But the Monte d'Or has accepted Randall back in.” Henry mentioned as he looked out the window to the nicely treated trees and flowers, all grown in a desert that was previously used as a dungeon.

“That's what happens in this town of Miracles after all.” Layton softly smiled as he held Randall's hand, relaxing as everything seemed to calm down for once. Maybe the villain in this story just wanted to give them a break.

There must have been a reason why they aren't shooking anyone…perhaps they are using the time to prepare?

Who knows.

Finally arriving at their destination, the group stepped out to the One-Ring circus, which seemed to be fully set out for their next show. Surprisingly, Clive was there too.

“Clive?” Layton had almost mumbled but The boy flinched harshly anyway at the mention of his name anyway. Clive was frightened for just a moment before recognizing the professor.

He silently adjusted his coat, reminding Layton Clive seemed to be picking up on his habits. “Professor, what are you doing here? Perhaps to enjoy the show like me?” Clive mentioned calmly as he didn't seem bothered by the many people.

Nobody knew him, so Clive was completely fine.

“On the point there, Clive. I hope you don't mind us joining you.” Layton tipped his head happily as Randall was almost prepared to just run into the circus, but luckily his Ex stopped him before that happened.

“Not at all. Come on.” Both nodded as they all went in finally, the cheery music filling the tent and bringing happiness to children and Adults alike. People were happy to just be there and enjoy their time.

Taking place on a seat, Layton took a thoughtful glance at the whole situation which seemed rather not dangerous luckily. The last time he was here was for nothing more than a case. End of story.

But now, a whole group of his friends was here and they could have fun for an hour or so before they had to force themselves to continue a treasure hunt nobody wants.

But that wasn't important as the lights turned off, bringing the show to a start with marvelous tricks like walking on a thin rope, jumping through a burning loop with Maurice and promptly having clowns getting cakes smashed into their faces.

Yet, they seemed to have copied a trick from the masked gentleman, as they once turned themselves on fire with some swift fake fire and came out completely fine, probably using a platform below.

He visibly saw Randall snicker.

The show ended with the performers making a big pose by standing on eachother and holding one another, with Maruice on-top as the main animal here.

People clapped at the marvelous performance, to which their little group joined in.

Layton glanced over to Clive, who looked so incredibly happy and excited even if he was now a grown adult, not a child no more. He felt a sense of proudness for the boy, almost like he was ready to adopt another child.

But he doesn't think that works with a 20 year old boy.

“Did you enjoy the show, my boy?” Layton fondly looked at Clive, who blushed in embarrassment and stood up while tucking on his coat. “It was- Fine.” He choked out embarrassed, to which Layton chuckled s bit.

He helped Clive up and followed the group out, holding the boy's hand just in case he would get accidently lost in the crowd or perhaps be anxious as it wasn't easy to get through with all these people.

As they slowly left the circus, Clive silently pressed Laytons hand, making the professor look over in curiosity. “What is it, Clive?” He asked politely.

“...Thanks for bringing us here.” The brown haired boy mentioned, silently looking down at the ground as he was embarrased to admit the truth.

Layton softly chuckled and gave an approving tip of the head, before proceeding onward to the Pumpkin Park. “Have you ever been to an amusement park?” Henry asked Clive, patting the young ones - in his opinion - shoulder.

“...In the past. Yes. But I didn't have time as of recently.” Clive looked around the laughing folks, all being happy and rather excited to be there on the rides, to eat sweets and more. A paradise to many children.

“Well, then it's time to relive it, don't you think?” Randall spoke up and with a swift pull, dragged the boy along to practically go on every ride in this damm park. Angela chuckled at her friends determination.

“I'm happy that you take such good care of the children.” Angela mentioned, yet Layton frowned slightly at that statement. He wasn't the best parental figure in the world, especially not by taking all these death traps and almost hurting everyone else in the process-

But a gentleman always takes a compliment, so he hid the frown and tipped his hat. “Of…Of course. Why wouldn't i?” He said nervously, silently rubbing his arms as he watched Randall and Clive return in the span of 30 minutes.

“That…was the fastest…I ever used every attraction!” Randall said out of breath, choking up a happy laugh as he found this plain hilarious to see, while Clive beside him looked like his eyes were wide with awe. “That…was amazing!”

“It's nice you two had fun.” Layton said happily as he looked over to Clive again, who was clearly happy with all the shenanigans that just so happened. The place was cheery and he finally felt happy, being able to almost completely forget that they just did a quick stop here.

“Is it okay if we quickly stop by my office? I just wanna check if I need to assign anything to my workers while we're away.” Henry asked quickly and as they all approved, they started heading through the shopping road to take a shortcut.

The place was crowded beyond belief, and the professor kept Clive close so he wouldn't suddenly get lost in the amount of people. Probably wouldn't be good for the kids' social anxiety.

Professor Layton didn't mind crowds but couldn't help tightening his grip, almost to reassure Clive that nothing was gonna happen to him.

Finally going through the gate and into the small mansion, Layton sat down for a moment while Henry and Angela got their stuff in order. Clive looked over silently to the tired professor as he tapped the shoulder. “How long have you known this place?”

“For awhile. I first came here to investigate for my old friend Angela about some dark Miracles…that's also how I saw Randall again.” He silently picked up a photo frame nearby and showed it to the boy, showing how they were all together in the end with Randall having an arm wrapped around his neck.

He chuckled at the Memory.

“You must be very close.” Clive mentioned as he took the frame, tracing over it with his thumb and silently relaxing. “You can be grateful that you have such a family.” Layton firmly nodded as he put the frame back.

Layton relaxed slowly onto the couch, crossing his arms as he realized how absurd this all must be. A group full of old enemies, friends and children going on a big treasure that might not even contain a treasure.

Wonderful.

Yet he perked up again as the door to Henry’s office opened. “Okay, we're done. We should return back to the zeppelin now to continue our journey.” Henry noted as he gave a small smile to see the two talking together.

An hour had now passed by and Layton hoped everyone got there by now so they didn't have too much trouble.

It was nice in Monte d'Or, but they were still in sure risk of getting electrocuted at any moment…yet he wondered.

Why didn't the voice do it yet? They surely haven't followed the hint…

Maybe it was their cue to take preparations.

But for now, it was all still a certain puzzle.

Reaching the ship, the group could see Raymond filling the ship with new supplies and fresh fuel so nothing would go wrong, with the others talking or going inside the ship.

With a quick wave and the others noticing the Monte d'Or group was back, everyone headed inside and seated down to look at the overall map. “I think at this point we traveled a quarter of this world for this dumb treasure hunt!” Don Paulo mentioned, being annoyed as they looked at the points of the map they already went to.

It has been quite the ride already, but Layton noted how all these events seemed very…pointed towards him. The fact that every time they go to another place it was only a worse incident was suspicious.

Who could know so much about him? Or perhaps everyone for that?

“I know, but it might have a bigger meaning.” Layton had noted, silently humming as he looked over the map marks. In the meanwhile, Descole was actually discussing the next puzzle with the group, reading it out for them.

“A wall was it's biggest secret.”

“The more these riddles come up, the stupider they become.” Bronev noted annoyed as he exchanged the papers with others, who all took glances at it before Randall perked up. “Wait…Hey, Hershel. What if it meant Stansbury?” He mentioned it excitingly…yet it made Angela wonder.

“But what would it have to do with that? The wall was nothing more than a Map.” Angela mentioned simply, bringing the others more in thought before Layton pointed a finger up, meaning he came to a point.

“What if it doesn't refer to stansbury, but rather the wall in general? Then we could be going into the old ruins!” Layton noted, going onto the map where he and Randal in the past headed to go find treasure.

How ironic.

“Well, then we shouldn't waste our time with a muddy old town. Let's head to the ruins.” Dimitri mentioned with a smirk as the engines were set into motion, making the whole ship hum in approval of their adventure.

As the engine started moving into the direction they needed to get into, Layton couldn't help but feel his stomach hurt in concern.

With a silent groan, he sat down beside the children, who were currently role-playing some sword fighting heroes, reminding him of his and Randal’s practices. It only hurt him more though.

But…its fine.

Sooner or later.

He would be alright.

….

Hopefully like always.

Chapter Text

For once, Layton found himself at the deck.

Hanging slightly over the railings, he watched closely as the huge amounts of sand passed by, making him forcefully rub his eyes more than necessary to get rid of the little corns.

It was a every five minute thing when your literally flying over a giant desert, every corner filled with that dreaded corn like material that hid away many nations.

Like the Azran structures.

As of currently, he was trying to relax from everything going on and by the fact they were slowly reaching the ruins that brought one of the horrible tragedies which was his-

No.

No, it- it wasn't his fault. Layton needed to remind himself of that. Randall and his friends already forgave him and in the end he found out his best friend survived after all.

Taking a deep breath, he quietly looked down onto the structured sands once more, also counting the cactuses he found inbetween to distract himself from the painful memories that brought him many years of misery.

He was starting to rub onto his coat again, pulling and damaging some of the fabric by shear stress stimming. Finding this deeply ungentlemanly, he gripped a bit harshly onto the railing to calm himself and not destroy any more clothing articles.

Closing his eyes also seemed rather fond right now as he took some deep breaths, just imagining some happier memories as the wind went past him…

It was peaceful for just a moment.

…..

“Professor!” Layton flinched harshly due to his anxiety and yelped as he shakily stood there, not having expected his assistant before composing himself to not seem that emotionally strained as he was currently.

That wouldn't be a good example of him.

“Ah, Luke. What brings you up here?” He adjusted his head once again, fiddling with the red band for a moment but refraining to do it to not damage any of the sweet fabric.

Not when it was such an important item to him.

“Well, you haven't come down for the last two hours. Some of us were worried since you're usually very cooperative and talkative.” Luke started as he rubbed behind his neck, slowly pulling out his notebook as he flipped the page over to a specific point. “But recently…you seem so off, Professor. Very nervous and unresponsive.”

Layton silently let out a breath he didn't know he kept in.

Well, yes. He had noticed himself that he was much more anxious than usual, being way more prone to wanting to sob and cry, but that was just because this adventure felt like it was personally meant against him, shoving traumas onto him like nothing.

It was a cruel, cruel joke someone was playing on him.

Maybe he could tell Luke about his suspicions, perhaps about all the thoughts he had or the fact he had half a panic attack back at Aurora's…no. The fake cave that someone built just to let people have a stupid attraction once again.

But he never did that, not at all.

“I apologize, I didn't mean to seem so stressed…” He formally apologized as he started rubbing his arms again, looking down at the land as Luke joined him in watching the sights which were mostly the same.

Layton took some deep breaths to calm down, just getting more anxious the more they approached their destination, before another pair of footsteps came, which were Flora. “Hello, Luke and Papa!” She said happily as she got beside the two, who greeted her in the same manner.

“Say, what are these ruins again?” Flora had asked, which reminded the professor that he never really talked to Flora about the Azran. But that wasn't out of parental issues, but rather since it was more of a private issue he had to figure out.

“Well, they..were a place Randall and I went to to search for treasure. It..didn't end well.” That's all she needed to know for now, even if she looked concerned for her adoptive parent.

Layton didn't need to tell everyone his issues.

With a silent sigh, Layton slowly looked down at the entrance of the ruins, which the ship started to land closely by. He shielded the children quickly with his arms from the little sandstorm around them.

The wind blew around them as the Zeppelin landed, before it finally settled down and didn't bother them anymore. As that moment ended, they headed back inside, where Layton spotted his best friend already swinging a shovel around.

“This will be like old times, Hersh!” Randall said happily, carrying the shovel around like a worthy treasure already, while almost hitting several people in the face, including actually smacking Descole who growled and smacked Randall back in the face.

Layton snorted to himself at that scene, while Emmy came up behind the children. “Are you ready for an expedition, you two?” She said excitingly as she hugged the two, who laughed happily at the interaction.

“I hope this won't ruin my suit as much…I surely won't be beside you.” Dimitri mentioned annoyed as he backed away from Don Paulo, who was holding a literal drill to probably dig trough the stone and dirt. “Your loss!” He snickered happily.

Descole sighed silently as he went over to Layton, handing him a shovel. “I'm guessing you have been here before?” The question was understandable, to which Layton responded with a quick nod as he helped close Flora's jacket. “Indeed. We…didn't find anything though.”

A white lie doesn't hurt when it is private.

Descole gave a silent stare, even if he knew…he didn't say anything as it may be uncomfortable for the professor as he probably didn't want his new friends to know, so he kept his mouth shut.

“Anyway, let's get ready for this expedition.” Bronev had mentioned from behind Descole, while avoiding a leg Descole wanted him to trip over. It was ridiculous at this point, but Layton didn't comment on it.

The people soon started to pour out of the ship to which Descole brought supplies with him. They were stomping through the sand, heading over to the entrance which wasn't glowing surprisingly.

Everyone was practically ready to enter these already rummaged through ruins…

But maybe they'll find something new, who knows.

With a quick help from Layton and Randal they found the entrance, going in and touching the old ruins who's runes still didn't shine like they should. It was almost depressing.

“Warning. There are a hundred floors to this, so we'll be here for AWHILE-!” 

The snapping of necks could be heard from all across the ruins.

And that's where the everlasting madness began.

The first floor was easy enough, with everyone getting an explanation from Randal as to what to expect and that the puzzles are always the same…yet he will maybe let them solve them out of fun.

They seemed to have been re-actived, but it wasn't as bad as they just needed some repeation done here and there, maybe having some fun letting the group figure out the puzzles too as they so pleased.

Each had their different ways of defeating these old beings since they didn't just have a shovel.

Emmy easily kicked these things into their demise, repeatedly using the wall to smack the mummy into it until it was nothing more than broken technology.

Don Paulo pretty much drilled the mummies head in while Dimitri was used as fleeing bait so the monster wouldn't attack him.

Descole for once worked together with Bronev, who jumped on the robot to obscure it’s vision while Descole cartoonicly removed the paper around them to break the mechanics.

The children simply ran away before these things hit a wall by how frantically they moved.

Angela and Henry helped bring them into holes, using the old school method which was also the funniest by that logic.

Some rooms had a puzzle Layton already knew, but it wasn't that bad as they just wanted to get trough there anyway. It was funny to time how fast Layton could finish up a puzzle.

When reaching the whole sword room, it at first brought up bad memories of barely dodging attacks…

But now with a full group of practical maniacs in some part of their brain, it was as easy as pie to destroy most of them or lead them down the holes while dodging like masters.

It was almost like a dance of death and life, beautifully composed and structured chaos.

During that they were also breaks inbetween so no one would collapse out of nowhere. Those were calm moments where the others would share stories, new ideas and complete fantasies or made up games.

They had plenty of food and alot of card games that included alot of cheating, randomly made up rules, screaming and probably rethinking life when someone lost for the tenth time.

Every room seemed like a new challenge, with people accidently activating traps, getting almost shot by fire…maybe getting hit by a speak or two…or just a riddle with endless words that nobody understood beside Layton sometimes.

The important part here was that everyone was having a grand time for once, destroying robots and letting their anger out on robots who may be a bit stupid.

Layton admitted, he started to watch this out of poor amusement, even if that was deeply ungentlemanly of him. He felt like a teenager who just arrived at the ruins again, ready to listen to any rambling Randal would do along the way.

But maybe, it was too much like that as they reached the end of the 99 Room.

Layton had completely forgotten what happened as they all were talking happily, not even noticing anymore the straps on their legs which haven't been activated in some time.

The professor glanced over at the almost final door, humming softly as he pressed a hand against it, touching the hard and cold stone with a shudder.

“I shall go in first.” Layton noted softly as the others nodded in agreement, slowly starting to talk about what may be beyond this point or how one has done better at defeating a mummie or something.

With a quick push, Layton opened the door, rushing forward and using several steps to go into the room-

And the world stopped.

There was ground for a moment, but then no more.

Layton’s eyes snapped open as the darkness swallowed him, blurring his mind as he realized where he was.

What he was falling in.

He yelped harshly as he seemed to be falling, reminding him of the moment that changed his life so drastically.

He had failed everyone-

He could hear the rushing of water, obscuring anything else as the world seemed an eternal blur as time passed, straining his limbs and leaving a faint ringing in his ears.

His arm felt like it was squeezed several times, or by a lot of things as his breathing seemed rather uneven and fast, but he didn't care.

He was dead.

Like Randall had died when he let his hand slip.

That was his fault.

Completely his fault.

If he had just pulled harder, he could have returned home with his friend, but here he was, repeating the same mistake now with himself-

He felt his body collide a bit against some rocks, his body feeling heavy as it rocked along a groundless abyss of sorrows and mistakes.

His brain seemed unresponding as he was frantically pulled by something. 

Maybe death was there to free him from his stupid mistakes that brought so much pain to others.

Yet the ground started to feel softer like a delicate pillow, the pulling having stopped as the grips had left his arm without an explanation.

Faint voices hummed around his ears, some concerned or confused, but especially worried for the boy.

His side was being rubbed so delicately that he felt like he could just fall asleep again forgetting his sorrows for just a moment as he relaxed.

The…Hat? Yes, Hat. It was removed from his head for a moment.

His mind was calming down, registering more sounds.

A voice which seemed to leave a memory of his best friend behind informed people to not rush a man named Hershel.

That was him probably.

Quietly he decided to give a signal he was alive, as a gentleman code in his brain registered to always make sure people weren't worried about you.

He gently clenched and unclenched, bringing attention to himself as his breathing started evening out, making him remember more about himself.

Sound and vision had finally returned the worried looks of….Luke and Flora meeting him, with the young daughter having faint tears prickling in her eyes.

He noticed that he was laying on a small sleeping sack they had brought along with them, with his signature tophat right on the side.

It didn't fall off.

“Hershel, there you are. How are you feeling?” His bestest friend was alive and well, now asking how he was after realizing he was probably heavily dissociated.

At least that's what his guess was after dangling from a giant hole.

Layton didn't answer at first, silently bringing himself up with his elbow on the sleeping sack to check around the Area.

Dimitri was checking out the big hole with Clive, sometimes looking over with slight concern plastering their faces.

Around him were the rest of his friends, some whispering stuff that he didn't listen too right now.

“....What happened?” 

Layton should know. He just said it himself.

Yet confirmation seemed like such a pretty option right now that he just had to take it.

“Well…you rushed almost into a hole, but we catched you in the last second, professor.” The yellow woman named E…Emmy had responded, silently helping him sit up while Don Paulo gave him the hat back.

The hands he used to take stuff with were slightly shaky, and the blue suited…Ah. Henry helped put it on correctly.

“Oh.” Was the only response he made as he quietly took some deep breaths to calm himself down, realizing he was probably way too fragile currently. “I'm sorry, everyone.”

It was a habit as well.

“What are you apologizing for-?! You could have died, you moron!” Don Paulo was for once complaining, preferring if his arch-nemesis didn't die by splashing on the ground like a rotten fruit.

“For once I agree with this moron…your lucky you don't have a head wound while you dangled there.” Descole noted as he helped the shaky Layton up, letting Bronev support the man as he shivered at the mere sight of this giant death trap.

He let them lead him towards it so nothing happens, making him look down and let his brain process any info on how to continue without damaging his brain any further.

Yet got an idea after a straight minute, finally regaining his posture from the after shock.

“Randall, in the past when we…met..again…” Layton silently mumbled out the last part, not wanting anymore bad memories to corrupt his mind at the moment as they had better things to do currently. “You said there was a river down there, is that correct?”

Randall gave a confused nod before Layton went over to their bag, rummaging trough it before pulling out a lifeboat which can be filled with air. “There we go. It is rather big, so we should all fit into it.”

He heavily implied they should all go into that deep hole and use a boat to swim in it.

Maybe he was a bit weird.

“Hershel, not to insult you, but I don't think this is a good idea-” Angela wanted to say, but the professor was already filling the boat with air, silently pointing over to Don Paulo. “Do you have anything to get us down here safely?” With a silent stare, the genius actually pulled out…an umbrella?

“Wait, isn't that-” Luke started but was quickly interrupted by Don Paulo. “Yes, it's the umbrella i used to escape with on the bridge! And let me tell you, it is durable! It'll be able to hold us all!” The man snickered, but the others looked nervous.m at the suggestion of riding a flower..propeller…thing.

“But isn't it just one handle? Where…oh no.”

That comment came from Dimitri, and it would soon come true as for once, Hershel gave a smile as he finished blowing air into the boat, grabbing it tightly and requesting for Don Paulo to start the ride.

And let me tell you that this plan was the stupidest you may have ever seen.

Everyone was hanging on Don Paulo at this point, trying to hold on while some screamed horribly in terror but some also just laughed in excitement even if it was sure death.

The people held onto eachother, some sitting on the shoulders while holding onto stick and trying not to get a fresh cut on their hair, while some barely dangled while holding onto a leg to not fall.

“I HATE THIS, I HATE THIS, I HATE THIS-” A horrified Clive yelled as he barely dangled on the leg, sometimes getting kicked in the face by others but mainly just screaming in pure terror.

They barely hanged on it as Layton threw the Boat into the water, deactivating the flower helicopter and slamming with everyone there onto the boat with a quick wave to quicken them up.

“THISSS WAS A HORRIBLE IDEAAAAA-!” Dimitri yelled after as they dropped from wave to wave, while Randall and Luke practically held their arms up like it was a damn rollercoaster.

The cave was filled with crystals and more vines, the water splashing heavily against them as the ride was maneuvered trough pure force of the waves.

Layton sometimes pushed against the wall with his arms to move them along safely, not wanting anyone to crash in this darn river.

Sure enough though, they reached an outside Area ... .one much more peaceful than the hellish streams that they were on just a moment ago and almost died in.

As the others squeezed out their wet clothes, they were surrounded by flowers, different plants and much more as Randall awed out. “Hey, this is the way to the village that saved me!” He said happily as he jumped from the boat, the others following while maybe missing and having to be dragged out of the lake.

And within minutes this turned ridiculously wonderful.

Randall was showing them around the little village, introducing the people who had missed him dearly, showing the crops and pretty much everything around town to show his full appreciation.

Every corner was pretty much interesting and they all seemed like kind people, so they were kind people back…at least most of the group did that. 

“It is rather sweet here, Randall!” Angela said happily while Henry nodded as well, very excited to be shown around by their friend. The others were having the impression that this was like one of those school trips you usually take where you get shown everything.

“I'm sorry I didn't visit as of recently…I was very busy, and I should have properly said goodbye.” The red-haired boy apologized firmly to the villagers, but they had already prepared for this before, having forgiven him since he seemed so desperate to get back to his real home.

“It is of no spot of bother. You did only what you thought was right for you at the time, and we forgive you!” They approved willingly, before suddenly remembering something with a quick hum.

“By the way, Randall!” One of the Townspeople said excitingly, showing off a letter. “A person told us you would come, so they gave us this letter!” 

That's..actually a bit creepy.

“Wait…they knew about you? Wait, how did they look?!” Randall said more panicked as the others came forward, all ready to read the next hint letter to finally get this show rolling again.

“Well, we are rather unsure…the person wore a cloak and everything, yet they sounded like a broken recorder!” A village kid chimed in while the others started reading the note carefully, almost squishing into eachothers body to all fit in.

“Something you loved yet never saw go…Layton. :)”

He almost choked on his own breath.

The way Layton flinched separated the group in a jiffy, making them immediately look over to the shaky man who already realized what was going on, while also having been shocked.

“No. T-They…how would they-?”

Let me explain something.

Layton is a very, very smart man who can solve many, MANY puzzles in a matter of one minute or even a few seconds if he wanted to, hence he always gives the puzzles to his assistant when it's possible.

Yet here, he already knew the answer to the riddle.

“Bro-...Layton, what is wrong?” Descole asked silently as he stared at his shaky brother, who was still trembling and silently moving his head over to his leg strap, which seemed to have done something as well…

This time, a burn mark, seemingly from a harsh shock he took through the flinch and shock, making the others silently stare at it. “Professor, do you need help with that-?” Emmy asked, but was silently called off by Layton.

He needed to keep being a gentleman.

He has too.

Or else he would start to sob and scream in front of everyone.

“...We need to get to london. Now.” Layton snapped his head over to Descole, who noticed that he looked afraid, nervous and desperate all at the same time…he wondered what unnerved the man so much.

Yet he visibly saw that once Luke and Flora hugged him and Randall came over to rub his back slowly, he calmed down for a moment to take a deep breath.

Descole didn't blame his brother at all.

"...Alright. Just let me get Raymond.” Descole noted simply as he made a quick call, making the assistant fly over with the ship while not damaging any of the plants or fields out of respect for the folk. “But I will ask questions later.”

They all took a minute to let the man catch his breath, before they waved a quick goodbye and let Layton go over to the panel to type in the location.

It was necessary to stay calm.

He needed to stay calm.

That was his job

He would be alright.

….

..

But for how long at this point?

Chapter Text

Maybe they were all very worried in secret.

Layton never showed much emotion through the past adventures.

The basics? The calmness of a maniac during every single situation, mild amusement with the softest laughter you would ever experience, and a slight fierce stare when you were a villain.

This adventure was different.

Professor Hershel Layton was having not only panic attacks, but several dissociation events that have never happened before, bringing the others in situations that were extremely unfamiliar.

And as of currently, the man was frantically going circles in the room, almost as if awaiting their arrival which he had not spoken off, but already knew within.

He always was like that, having such extreme and ridiculous speculations that would come true in the end.

"Professor?" Luke tried to approach the man, who silently looked over with crossed arms and a tipped hat. He took a deep breath, trying to seem at least a BIT gentlemanly.

Everything else seemed a tiny bit messy.

“What is it, my boy?” The man said it as sweet as usual, just with his voice a bit strained from everything that happened currently, leaving him a…bit worried.

But he'll be fine. He is always fine.

“You know you can talk to us if something is wrong, right professor?” Luke noted to which the professor for once only huffed in response, squinting his eyes as he clearly stressed from the situation but trying not to show it that clearly.

Even if it was very clear.

For a moment though, Layton hesitated as he glanced at the innocent boy who helped him through so many cases and mysteries.

“...Yes. Thank you.” Layton mentioned gratefully as he took in a deep breath and sat down on the couch as he traced over the couches fabric, trying to get some reassurance from that.

Randall silently grabbed a blanket, putting it over Hershel's shoulders and patting them for a moment. “Look, whatever's going on, it'll be fine. After all, we are all here!” His best friend always had that hopeful smile…which silently brought him happiness.

He only gave a silent nod, but relaxed against a pillow for Randall's sake, wanting for the drama to just stop and leave him alone for the day.

It was already enough anyways.

The trip was silent for once, which was maybe the professor's fault due to the drama he caused, but some of the group understood why it even happened in the first place.

Reliving trauma isn't a nice thing.

Yet as the night grew cold and everyone went to sleep in their little rooms or on the sweet couch that Layton laid on…

For once, Luke and Flora held a conversation as they watched the sky slowly go into the deep blue behind the window, making the stars glisten more and more in the beautiful darkness.

It also was the interesting realization that they were longer in the cave then they had expected, but it was easily expected due to the fact it was 100 rooms long, probably having taken almost 2 to 3 hours to fully complete.

“Luke, why is this adventure so…complicated?” Flora started to silently look down at the ground where the houses started to fill with light and the adults in the ship went to bed, using the Auto-pilot to fly to London.

“I'm unsure, but a lot of these encounters seemed to be Professor Layton!” Luke slowly pulled out his notebook, by which he had started writing down a lot of info, including of the places they went tonight and what happened when they were there.

Lines were connected to drawn pictures and a doodle in the middle of a sad layton pretty much told the girl what the analysis was about.

“The old home, the Azran, and the Randall incident…someone must have known the professor extremely well!” With a quick hum, he closed the book and whispered to Flora, keeping quiet as Layton had finally fallen asleep for once.

He looked rather peaceful at the moment, the eyebags slowly fading for once as he was just like a sleeping little boy who did nothing wrong.

Which was true, as he never did something wrong on purpose.

“Come on. Let's discuss in our rooms more.” Flora softly brought Luke along with her, sharing that sibling bond that many might have missed due to how it at first was poorly, but now properly developed into a healthy one.

The night was passing quickly, with the stars moving on to their own destiny and the moon slowly going back to sleep to let the sun arise in the morning.

It shined bright into the the ship, bringing some warmth to Laytons face which he kindly covered with his hands as he woke up, the rays grazing his faze and slightly hurting his barely opened eyes.

Layton yawned softly as he awoke after all these hours, having had a slightly uncomfortable sleep due to the nightmares trying to affect his deep slumber, but it luckily was just darkness most of the time.

Once his eyes properly fluttered open and he looked around though, he noticed the ship had stopped its engines, having already arrived in London as everyone was sleeping.

With a quick grumble, the professor hoisted himself up and dragged his body over to the tea kettle, silently murmuring as he grabbed a medikit while the tea was brewing and singing its soft tune for now.

Sitting down on a stool was easy enough, and he rolled up a bit of his pants to finally see the harsh burn mark around the strap they had on. He had a burning suspicion of something, but didn't say it yet.

He silently put some creme around it, hoping that the harsh burn mark would heal away and not put him in more misery then he already was in, mostly because he had a theory to the straps he didn't reveal just yet.

One just has to see a pattern after all, and be 100 steps ahead of everyone.

As timing had perfectly stopped itself, the tea kettle whistled loudly, making Layton flinch and he went on to slowly take it off so he could pour in his fresh earl grey tea.

Of course with a lemon and some milk.

“Ah, an early bird as well, Hershel?” Angela and Emmy for once approached him sitting down while getting some cups of tea poured in as well, while being offered sugar cubes and lemon slices.

Hershel softly hummed as he nodded. “Indeed. I prefer to have more time in my day than some others.” He quietly sipped on his own tea as the others started pouring in, of course also being offered tea which was either refused or accepted.

It couldn't be called a lie really. In the morning he could use the time to prepare more, grade papers…even if the awakenings in the early morning may even come from nightmares.

But Layton got used to it.

“Are you better than last night..b…Brother?” Descole risked that nickname for once, making Hershel stare silently in surprise before growing a soft smile in response. “Yes. Thank you for asking.”

It was quite a surprise to hear this one single relation to his brother finally said in a sentence.

It made him happy.

What also made him happy was that it was asked how he was, unlike the other times where he was recklessly ignored, but maybe it was his fault.

A true gentleman can usually handle himself on his own.

“It's nice to be back in London, even if it has been only a little while.” Dimitri mentioned fondly as the ship landed peacefully near the gressenheller grounds, bringing some attention to the unsuspecting students and teachers.

Even more when a group more colorful and insane then a rainbow came out, pretty much ready to get their treasure hunt going…and fast. Very fast.

Yet Rosa bumped into Layton once, smacking him a bit with a leftover towel as he yelped in embarrassment, knowing he probably deserved this for leaving without a trace and just a note. “What were you thinking, Mister Layton-?! We were heavily worried!” 

Layton couldn't help but frown at that, noticing it was his fault once again to not even properly inform the others. Maybe he could have at least mentioned more about the treasure hunt.

It's not like him at all to just cut off work, bur maybe his morning tiredness did not make him consider that this could be a potential trap.

Even more, this scenario could have been entirely different if it was in august like all the other adventures, which meant school was out and he wouldn't have worried anyone.

How incredibly stupid and ungentlemanly of him.

With the shoulders already slumping, the professor silently tipped his hat as he crossed one arm over his stomach, showing he was clearly ashamed. "I… Apologize, Rosa. I should have informed you more properly than to just run away. It isn't like me at all.”

Rosa silently stared at the guilty looking man, but took notice of how tired and mentally drained he looked and took sympathy in him.

In the end, she couldn't properly blame him.

“It's alright, Mister Layton. Just don't do it again, you hear?” She said more politely and calmly as she rubbed the arm, and the professor silently nodded as he went through his pockets, regaining his posture a bit.

Layton silently pulled out a map he kept by himself till now, staring down at it as he mumbled and followed along the path while the others frantically followed.

The streets were filled with some familiar faces and some strangers, all making way for the group to get through this mess of a city that was London.

Yet soon for some, the path was recognized…especially with Clive and Dimitri. “Wait…y-you don't mean-!” His dearest Laboratory friend said in a shocked tone while Clive held onto Don Paulo, who for once started to silently understand the situation once they reached a street.

The walk was getting slower as the tension grew higher, slowly getting to the house and noticing a note plastered onto the doors entrance as he took it.

“Go in.”

It was a simple request, but Layton shuddered at it. With a silent breath, he turned around to face the others. “I.. won't force anyone in there. I'll go alone if needed.” He made the quick statement, knowing some didn't want to see this.

In fact, no one did as they silently waited for Layton to make the final decision.

And it was a simple one as well.

“...Okay. I'll be right back.” Layton said as he started to go inside the building, closing the door behind him and admiring how they had rebuilt the stairs and such.

…First steps were easy enough, his shoe pressing against the porcelain that was made to decorate the whole interior, making him feel slightly safer with such protection.

The second seemed more interesting, his stomach gurgling in discomfort as he came closer to something he may not want to see or may not even exist.

Maybe it was just a normal apartment now, with a happy couple living in it with an adorable child, living their lives incredibly happily with no one to bother them.

That would be just perfect.

Yet as the third floor arrived, he started to get more gruesome imaginations.

One floor he was away from a probable death trap, maybe a bomb to make him be a victim of the experiment Claire was in, just with some improv.

Maybe it was just a clean old lab, with nothing having been ruined or destroyed just to mock him, acting like everything was okay and people haven't died yet.

Or maybe…

Layton stopped as he noticed that he was on the fourth floor, staring at the door of the fourth level reading a message tapped onto the door.

“Come on. Show your mind the truth.”

He set a gentle hand on the doorknob.

It took a time to twist it properly, a hand pressing against the door so it would open once he would unlock it.

His imaginations was running wild.

His breath was quickening up and he barely stuttered out words.

And soon…

He opened it up.

It was.

Worse. 

Way. Way. Way. Worse.

The Room looked like a museum. Everything in its place, perfectly setting up the destruction and black tar that was probably infested with insects by now.

But Layton couldn't care less.

Every step felt excruciating, the shoes falling on the black and stone hard material that had brought his girlfriend to her inevitable doom and a fate that would shot her into the future-

Just to die once again.

The time machine was broken, the clock parts and cabinets were broken open, and one thing was just so interesting to see.

Another doll like the Aurora one back in the Azran cave, now being torn and looking like Claire.

Layton registered the note and picked it up, yet pocketed it for just a second as he started to put his tophat down, holding it before his chest and silently sniffling to prevent tears from falling.

He was mourning after all these years, closing his eyes and praying - which he usually didn't do - that somewhere in heaven would be a beautiful place just for her to enjoy, having her friends and family close by.

Maybe her wings sprung beautifully in the light, showing that Claire's kindred heart was rewarded with what it's worth, looking down and holding everyone near.

With the utmost respect, Hershel Layton silently whispered.

“...I hope heaven treats you well, dear. Goodbye.”

With that, a silent turn was made as he carefully stepped over the floor to not ruin anything of this old and shattered room.

Delicately reaching for the doorknob, he looked back once again.

This was cruel.

So very.

Very cruel.

He looked away and twisted the doorknob, silently feeling a shock that almost didn't bother him anymore.

Maybe it was trying to scare him, to perhaps get more of a reaction out of him since everything happened.

But he didn't care too much as he silently stepped down the stairs, to which he surprisingly bumped into Luke.

“What brings you here, my boy?” The professor tenderly put a hand on Luke's shoulder, giving a silent but gentle gaze as the boy quietly looked down. “I..It didn't feel right leaving you alone there, Professor! Its not what a friend does!”

The boy looked more determined, but noticed which way the professor was going. “Wait…did you already finish?” With a soft chuckle, Layton nodded and kept walking down the stairs as he held Luke's hand, making sure he wouldn't need to see the room as well.

It's better to have just one person know about it.

Exiting the apartment building, he slowly closed the door as the others had waited patiently for the man to return. “And, anything…interesting?” Dimitri said silently and Layton preferred not to lie to the man who lost…her as well.

He silently whispered into the man's ear which was brought by a shocked gasp and a silent hug of reassurance, knowing that both of them would need it.

Dimitri almost thanked Layton internally with that hug since he pretty much kept away others from getting more confused and scared over everything.

After they separated, Layton quietly pulled out the note for himself while Luke read it as well to help out.

“A Home of your dearest friend.”

 ….

For once the straps didn't electrocute him, but gave the slightest buzz to show it was meant to him again…while also confirming a theory he had simply because he noticed how the other straps act.

“Oh, well that's a trick question! You like everyone equally!” Luke started with a laugh…yet got more silent as everyone stared with him with either a sigh, a soft and happy smile or a snicker. “What?”

Luke silently looked over to the Professor who smiled back at him, to which realization caught right up to him. “Wait, I'm your dearest friend-?!” He exclaimed, completely surprised as he froze a bit.

“Of course. You've been with me the longest, and while I do think of everyone as a friend equally…you're the best friend and apprentice a professor could have.” Layton softly said as he hugged Luke, who looked very happy with that response.

“You really need to go all- URGH-” Bronev almost interrupted the happy moment, but Descole simply kicked him in the stomach before that could happen.

Things are good that way.

“Now, that means…we gotta go to Misthallery?” Emmy asked curiously as a certain nod came from the professor. It was mostly the only answer if the person really meant Luke in this puzzle.

“How exciting! I never went to Misthallery!” Angela had mentioned happily as Henry took her hand, to which Randall simply got up beside Layton. “Guess we are near the end of our journey, hm?”

Well, that was a simple guess, but Layton couldn't help but think that was right.

As the group simply started to head back to the ship, it was a simple feeling of relief that washed over the professor, making him hope that all his theories were right in the end.

Yet he had to be completely honest for once…

He still wondered who the culprit of all this is.

It could very well be a targent member who used all the knowledge Bronev got, but how would one get such private information?

It could be a new character he hadn't met properly yet, but what would their motive even be?

Perhaps an old friend he tried to repress once again that wanted revenge or got manipulated?

“Guessing you know the answer to it all already, right Hersh?” That question from Randall caught him quite off guard though. “Please, he probably already knows half the motives already.” Descole had added, aware of this man's ability.

He always cracked his disguises afterall.

Layton silently crossed his arms, seemingly admitting defeat to himself as he gave his answer.

“...No, unfortunately. I don't have a clue.”

Layton's friends near damm choked or spit their water out at that response.

“Your…Joking, right?” Flora mentioned silently, used to the all smart professor who now just tipped his hat in slight shame. “I'm afraid not, my dear. But i think we're getting closer to the answer, so I might get it soon.”

He hoped he wasn't just reassuring himself.

With a quiet hum of the engines, the machine flew amongst the clouds again, speeding up just for a bit do they could finally end this journey of misery.

Everyone was tired of being chased around the world, wearing straps that could possibly electrocute them.

Layton had it the worst though, which people knew.

But….he's fine.

Soon, its over.

Nothing can be worse than seeing her lab.

Right?

Chapter Text

This ride was much shorter than the others.

The ship flew fast over the city of London and the way wasn't even that long, but Descole sped up anyway as he knew that everyone wanted to finally end this.

All these visits and constant 10 hour flights - which were much shorter, but felt like an eternity after a while - were getting stressful and useless when they didn't find anything.

Besides the professor, of course.

Everyone hung on different stuff just in case something happened, aswell so that the speed doesn't throw them to the ground and make them slam their face in the ground like Randall did twice.

“Hold on tight, you two!” Randall exclaimed as he made sure Henry and Angela were okay, who were currently grabbing onto the couch for safety, somewhat crouching too. “We will, thanks!” Angela exclaimed, almost excited for it all.

With a side glance, Layton noticed Bronev just leaning against a wall, being harshly pressed against due to the speed and growling, probably just wanting to leave already.

Dimitri and Don Paulo were simply holding onto the control panel for safety, while Flora and Emmy did a fun game of who can stay still the longest by controlling their body weight, by which Clive was participating and succeeding.

Maybe he would have gladly joined if he didn't make sure that Luke is okay.

“I'm happy when this journey's over, Professor!” Luke had exclaimed happily as he held onto the professor's coat, watching the clouds pass by as the ship slowly went down to misthallery.

The boy must have been excited to reunite with his old friends and town, since it's been quite a while after all these adventures, especially after moving away to go to america.

“I can only agree, Luke. This journey…has been quite exhausting.” That was to say the least for the professor, but he really was happy to put all this behind him and the group.

He preferred to not get his trauma pushed onto him like a weapon again.

This little treasure hunt could luckily be solved very easily, even if he didn't get the culprit down yet. It should be fine, since those were revealed to him at the end of it all.

It would be fine.

….which would have been the nice truth, but it suddenly wasn't.

With a sudden harsh bump, the whole ship shook for a moment as if something grabbed it near misthallery, dragging them down to the ground as more and more machines seemed to drag them down and try to destroy the machinery. 

“Oh, damn it-! Everyone, hold on!” Descole panicked yet also angry as his ship was getting attacked, trying to shoot out his miles which were suddenly ripped off by the rusty beings.

Yet, Emmy has recognized them.

“Wait, aren't those the Excavation Machines Descole used before-?!” She had yelled out as she held Flora close out of protection, to which Clive helped by keeping balance to the two.

“You're right! But who's controlling them-?” That question from Luke was suddenly unimportant as the whole ship did one last rumble before it reached ground, almost digging into it as the machines stopped pressing.

With a bang, the machine's arms started to burst through the door, grabbing the group harshly and keeping them mostly in three pairs. “OY, WATCH IT, YOU RUSTY BUFFOONS!” Don Paulo yelled but was quickly silenced by a rusty hand over the mouth as he was grabbed alongside Clive and Dimitri, who struggled as well.

Randall, Angela and Henry were in one, as well as Emmy and Flora, and lastly Descole and Bronev. Weirdly, they had put Layton in a lonely arm which was much more hardly pressed against him, making him flinch and groan as the straps were harshly removed at once.

Almost ripped off, so to say, as they may have not been needed or cared about anymore.

Layton finally took notice at how machine, plant-infested and somewhat cracked misthallery looked like, filled with these killing machines on three legs. plants grew out some parts, to which it seems that the machines must have arrived freshly, maybe one month ago precisely.

It was horrible to see the town in this state, but this was currently not important.

With a quick swipe, an excavation machine grabbed Luke and carried him away, practically kidnapping the flailing boy. “PROFESSOR!” Layton flinched, not wanting Luke to come to any harm in his vision…but he really couldn't do anything in this state.

“LUKE-!” The professor yelled out in panic for once, but just got crushed more slightly as he heaved. This whole ordeal was making him ill from all the arms motioning him around, to which he just gulped down any vomit he had inside him.

Finally the machines started to move, entering a little underground area which also seemed freshly dug out, smelling of dirt, old roots and rotting oil at this point. “What is this disgusting place-?” Bronev for once logically exclaimed, seeming angry at all the events unfolding here in mere seconds as the machines stomped on and on.

“Is Flora okay-?” Layton sadly needed to look for Luke later, so for now he focused his attention on the other child he held dear. “I'm alright, Papa!” She yelled back from the robot arm, while Emmy made sure she wasn't hurt in any way.

The underground area was mostly nothing more than a Tunnel, probably to exhaust or confuse them.

In one way or another, they finally reached a poorly made cell for them, to which the gate was perfectly made to keep them out. Quickly, everyone was thrown there one by one, to which a lot of groans followed as the gates closed again, with one machine staying there as a guard.

"I-I'm okay-..." Randall huffed out as he dusted himself off and stood up, helping the others as well as everyone helped each other at the moment to look around.

Don Paulo ran up to the gate, shaking it extremely hard but it practically did nothing as the machine gave a warning glare with it's cracked eyes, promptly stating more and more that they were not being left un-watched.

“This is madness…” Clive mentioned while Descole glared at the dreaded machine that did not obey him anymore. The others in the meanwhile sat down to figure out a plan, hoping to get out of this cell.

Angela silently hummed as she made sure some of them didn't have injuries as they took a rough harsh throw there, especially since some people hit other people.

“I hope that little boy Luke is okay.” Henry said, being obviously worried that Luke was taken away, not even being able to imagine how Hershel must be feeling right now.

Speaking of Layton, he was currently inspecting the cell, hoping to find some hint coins for comfort or a puzzle that would get them out of here. There always was.

Why would that be changed?

There was an obvious disappointed sigh from the professor, but it was interrupted by Flora speaking up. “Papa, you have something sticking out of your pocket!” She noted right as there was the old letter sticking out of his coat.

“Ah, right.. hm…” Layton though, silently reading over it again, sadly remembering this is what brought them all into this mess. If he just didn't answer it, then maybe-

Wait.

Wait a moment.

He gripped the Letter as he read it again. And again.

“Dear Hershel Layton, I’ve Come to know that you take cases regarding mysterious puzzLes And potential aRchaeological discoveries. I’ve found a treasure that I think you’d liKe to see.”

-Regards-

-A mysterious sender-

Soon he noticed that if you read the letters that are bigger and more well drawn - beside sentence starters and the greetings - it spells…

Clark.

Clark. His old friend.

The one who Hershel told every little secret out of trust and the one who promised to keep it that way. 

The one he let one single time let tears slip from, hugging him desperately.

And the fact it would make sense is horrible.

Sitting down, Layton tried to find a way it couldn't be him as his hands shook silently, silently having a completely frozen stare.

Maybe it couldn't be him due to all the rebuilt areas…but he could have simply caught a glimpse of it in the newspapers, as the photographers simply shot everything.

Even his dear Claire's death place.

He had the money and for the extra information where everything is he could have-

“Bronev. Did someone. Talk to you before you got. released?” It sounded so silent and shocked that Bronev barely heard it, but he luckily noticed it anyway. “Yes? I guess there was a question sheet, but I guessed it was those stupid police forces…”

“When was that?” Maybe, Just…Maybe-

“Like 1 month before?”

Oh no.

That's the timeframe where the robots- where the rebuild rooms-

Oh god.

And the reason only Luke was taken because it's his son and there were no real dangers to hurt him…and the fact only his strap turned on to electrocute him-

Because its the only one that was supposed to work.

“Professor, are you alright?” Layton barely noticed people looking over at him confused, probably seeming so out of character again as his brother and daughter seemed to get concerned.

Layton couldn't cry.

He was a Gentleman. 

But he hurt so many people because of his stupid actions-

Because he was unreasonable.

That's why everyone dies around him.

Betrays him.

That's why Clark must hate him now.

He didn't protect Luke well enough.

He acted like Luke was his son, not Clark's.

Layton was a horrible person.

And for once…

All the floodgates opened at once.

The professor barely heard anything more and the ringing set in, tears practically flooding out of his eyes as he started to sob hysterically in front of everyone like a stupid child.

He curled up into a ball, keeping to himself so closely almost as if he wanted to prevent anyone from being hurt once again because he was a little bit upset over something that he usually dealt with so fast.

With a quick pull, his tophat covered up the tear-drowned face, now showing the messy and unkempt hair including the now broken mask that he kept from everyone.

Layton was a failure of a parent.

A failure of a professor.

A failure at protecting and keeping anyone he loves.

With a choked sob, the professor squinted his eyes closed as he faintly heard steps approaching, probably ready to yell at him for his misdeeds and failures…

Yet a yell never came.

Nor a slap.

A gentle tap on the shoulder came, yet he didn't dare look up as he listened to the soft voice of his best friend.

“Hersh? Can you hear me?”

Simple question, but he didn't want to be more of a mess then he was already and not respond, even if he was not a gentleman anymore.

He gave a firm nod.

“Okay…can I, or we, hug you?”

Layton choked on his breath for a moment, but couldn't help his bleeding heartache and breaking facade right now as it all hurt too much.

He didn't deserve this, but he raised his arms anyway, praying and craving for any close comfort because it felt like he had nothing left.

And with that, warm arms started to wrap around him, multiple that came one after one to give him time to process everything that's happening and to let him melt into the embrace.

The quiet sobs started to turn more harsh and pitiful, embracing the people around for love and affection that he so dearly wanted and needed.

Faint whispers of reassurance were there too, ready to just let him take all these emotions out that he left in for so long, having now burst from the pressure.

After a few minutes, all the sobs slowly dissolved into quite sniffles as some of the group pulled back, leaving to what he knows and feels Randall due to the tight grip, Descole due to the feeling of his cape somewhat over him and his dear Flora who hugged his stomach, the small stature clear to him.

“Are you ready to talk, Hersh?” There was no pressure in Randall's voice as Layton silently started to hold into his hat, the tears freshly dried yet also still somewhat welling up from all the memories.

He nodded carefully as the others let him take his time, occupying them more to see if they could escape or just standing there to listen.

"...It's just…Clark. Clark is…the one behind this…” Layton barely choked out, continuing on as he knew some were confused. “I told him so so much and he was a good friend, but y-yet…’

Randall held him a bit closer while Emmy softly stared, the others silently realizing how hard it must be for someone to be betrayed by a person they basically trusted everything onto.

Some even knew, like Descole or Randall, which was just fitting.

“...I-Im sorry. This is my fault.” Layton choked out, silently sniffling and wiping his face and cheeks with a handkerchief which was handed to him.

“It’s really not, Hersh-! It's not fair that this guy can just dump so much baggage onto you and then expect you to suddenly be so understanding of it.” Randall said, trying to word it the best he could while Flora slowly took a step back.

“And u-uhm…maybe you can talk to him? Afterall, your best friend's, right?” Flora had a rather nice reply and he could guess it was right in a way. Maybe Clark just was a bit too…overprotective.

Just a bit.

With a sigh, Layton stood up once again, putting his hat on and wiping his face once more. “Maybe…still, I'm sorry for-” But his mouth was just shut by Descole putting a hand over it with a silent glare. “No apologies. Let's do that after we escape this prison cell and aren't watched 24/7.” 

That was a good point.

With a sigh and another rub to his coat, he looked up to the machine who just turned around, then over to his brother.

Deacole did give him a reassuring smile to show that he could do it when they are gone. Layton composed himself once again and came close, inspecting the machine as it was turned around. “It seems as if this machine is working by itself…probably reprogrammed.” He noted as he tapped Don Paulo’s shoulder.

“May I have your umbrella?” It was a weird request, but Don Paulo let the professor do his thing as he grabbed it, letting the people move away as he took a step back.

With a heavy sprint, he threw the closed umbrella through the cell bars and hit the Excavation machine right in one eye, making it screech and try to fight back by destroying the cell bars.

The others jumped away to safety and Clive took a risky sprint to get inside the little control panel and deactivate the program so they could use it instead. With a happy giggle and a little bit playing around, Clive moved the robot forward towards the cell. “Hop in! The next stop will be Luke and Clark!” 

The group hopped on or in, hanging on the robot as Clive sped it up, stomping through the underground area like the monstrous being it was meant to be and with a quick swift move from the drill, a little jump was made to the outside.

“Okay, get ready, cause this is gonna be messy…” Clive smirked harshly as he walked a bit on the spot, preparing to completely destroy the robots in his way through the corrupted misthallery to get to their little friend.

“One, two…and THREE!” 

With a final step, the robot in their control lurched forward and started fighting against the machines, drilling into their head and ripping off legs to get through this mess, especially with all the oil splattering from the insides.

Occasionally the others helped, be it with a distraction or a simple kick against the rusty metal to make them fall over and not kill them onsight by cracking an eye or dodging a drill.

“May I have a turn?” Flora asked with a happy face as she giggled and got beside Clive. “Of course.” The boy quickly made room for the golden apple and let me tell you, she was a natural.

With quick movements and harsh kicks, the way was made in no time, showing off the true talent of the underestimated girl which soon brought them near the dreaded house that kept Luke in.

Everyone quickly dropped out of there, but Layton stopped them for a moment for safety. “...I don't think this is the right entrance.” He mustered up, thinking in puzzles again as he took a few steps closer to the building and inspected it.

“There's his old annoying self again.” Bronev said with slight annoyance but secretly enjoyed the fact that Layton was at least back to working on this mess and not let them so all the work.

One quick inspection later and Layton waved over to the others, showing off a secret door hidden away in the back of the house revealing more underground builds than just a basement.

“So…how are we approaching this?” Dimitri asked curiously, kneeling down as he watched little robots walking around to protect the basement-like area, not letting any intruders in.

“...I'll say I go towards our main goal, the deepest part. The others should make way so I can confront Clark.” Layton stated, wanting to talk to Clark himself and finally end this mess of an adventure.

“Are you gonna be alright, Hershel? This man uses your insecurities as a weapon after all…” Angela simply mentioned with a concerned tone as she looked at him, quietly debating if they should not come with him to the deepest part.

“No, it's alright. You helped enough. Thank you.” Layton smiled fondly, reassuring everyone of his safety as he slowly took the stairs downwards with the others.

It has been a long journey, and he knew he wasn't fine.

But in the end, it'll be okay.

This time, for real.

Chapter Text

Now for a simple explanation.

As this chapter is supposed to be a bit longer and a bit better it might take a longer time, as next weekend! :]

Thanks for understanding!