Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Mud splashing under boot sounded throughout the marsh. Newton turned every which way- where did he anchor the damn boat- trying to recognize his surroundings. He had been in Manglewood Swamp before, but he had never lost the boat. However, the harsh rain had washed away his footsteps, leaving him unable to locate the dock.

He heard footsteps, nimble yet clumsy. They were steadily approaching, as if they knew the area better than he. He was scared, as he was completely unaware anyone actually still lived here.

“Woah! Extra muddy out here tonight, isn’t it?” Said a voice, that seemed about as young as his own. “You don’t seem like you’re from around here!” A kid, about as tall as him too- peeked his film-reel head out from the overgrowth.

“Uh, no, I’m not.” The young Newton fidgeted. “Sorry for intruding, chum.”

The kid seemed almost offended. “Intruding? Psh! Manglewood Swamp is for everyone! At least, that’s how I’m gonna make it when I’m all grown up and Creator Curator of this place!”

Newton tilted his head. “Creator Curator?” He chuckled. “But... Nobody lives here!” As he said that, the kid put his hand around his shoulder, gesturing to the vine-obscured sky like a realtor selling a house.

“Well, duh, but I’m gonna change that!” He smiled. “Marlon Random, biggest name in cinema as Bunkum knows it! People will flock from all over Bunkum just to see me, here, in Manglewood!” He paused. “You do know who I am, don’t you?”

Newton stammered. “Er, no, not really.”

There it was again. That look of offense that Newton couldn’t exactly tell if it was mock offense or not. As confusing as this Marlon was, Newton thought he was quite interesting.

As much as Newton expected a proper introduction any second now, instead he got something else.

“Well, I know who you are. Son of like, the coolest inventor!” Marlon grinned. Newton only nervously laughed.

“Yeah...” He didn’t want to inform Marlon of what was really going on, until Marlon asked, “So why are you here, anyway? Stitchem’s a boat ride away from here, right? There’s no bridge yet.”

Newton nodded. “It is. I just wanted to get my mind off my dad, I guess... There’s this... Thing, that I have to do soon, as the only son of the Pud family. My dad is supposed to clone me and leave the clone in the cellar with the Titans.”

Marlon seemed dumbfounded at this information, and rightfully so. Newton wouldn’t expect that, either. “Cloning?! And your family has their hands on the Titans?!”

Newton shushed him, putting a finger on Marlon’s mouth and immediately recoiled it when the silly cinema addict threatened to lick it. “Not so loud! But, yes. Thing is, I don’t want to. I think it’s hurtful and inhumane, for one.”

Marlon agreed, looking away as if he wished he’d never asked. “Yeesh, that does sound rough. But, you know, I don’t mind letting you hang around ‘ol Manglewood if you really need somewhere to run to.” He smiled. “I wouldn’t wanna put anyone under that stress, either. Your clone, I mean. And you!” He fumbled over his words, trying not to get the wrong point across. Thankfully, Newton understood.

“Oh, uh, thanks.” Newton was surprised that a stranger he just met would extend this offer to him. “I don’t know how I could repay something like that.”

“No need!” Marlon said. “You’re my friend now, and it’s what friends do.”

Newton didn’t know how to respond. He had never quite been treated this well- let alone someone he just met- before. “Thank you, chum. I’d give the same to you if I could.”

Marlon smiled. “I’d love to visit Stitchem sometime!” He seemed to just now realize how close he and Newton still were, as he backed away. “We should probably get you back home, actually... It’s pretty late.”

Newton nodded. “Mhm... I hope my dad is already asleep and doesn’t notice me coming back in. Do you know where the docks are?” He nervously asked, trying not to reveal the fact that he’d lost his boat prior to meeting Marlon.

“Of course I do! C’mon.” Marlon walked ahead leading the way through the mud and overgrowth back to where Newton had anchored the boat at the small wooden pier. “Well, here’s your stop,” Marlon chuckled as Newton got back on his mother’s boat, standing aside. “I’ll see you soon, yeah?”

Newton smiled and nodded. “When I can!” He pulled up the anchor and spun the roters once, getting the boat moving back towards home.

By the time he could see the shore, he could already see his father waiting outside for him, his light visible amidst the dim fog. Newton muttered a few curses under his breath, as he steered the boat back next to the dock.

“And where were you, Newton?” Captain Pud asked, walking onto the dock as Newton got off and tied up the boat as he had done so many times before.

“Out at sea,” Newton lied, unsure why he had lied. He had no reason to lie about his whereabouts, surely? Thankfully, his father accepted that. “Just like his father, always out adventuring.” Newton could see a crackle of a smile. “You’ll be a great king someday soon!”

This caught Newton off-guard. “King? Soon?” He repeated, unsure of the words.

“Oh, I never told you about the wedding! Silly me. Come inside, you can have some of that tea you like so much while we chat.” Captain Pud dragged a very confuzzled and concerned Newton inside, heating up water as he spoke to his son. “I want you to mary into the royal family, son, and the Buflooms family wants you to marry their eldest daughter!” He said, as if Newton would be excited at the news.

“They want me to marry the princess? Pinky Buflooms?” Newton asked, biting back a quick addition- “isn’t she an asshole?”

“Of course! Why not? You’re intelligent and adventurous. They said to me that you both would have a magnificent heir to our families!”

Newton made a slightly disgusted face but hid it. He was not about to dissapoint his dad by coming out as asexual. “Of course, dad, how... Wonderful.”

Captain Pud nodded earnestly. Newton wished he would hurry up with his tea so he could leave this conversation. Preferably to scream into a pillow. Thankfully, he was already pouring water over the tea.

“You’ll be making me- no, us- proud, son. I’m so excited for you, you know.” Captain Pud smiled. Newton smiled back, but deep down he was oh-so-close to losing it. He quickly grabbed the cup of half-steeped tea. “Well, I’m quite tired, so I’m gonna go to my room thanks dad bye-” He went straight up to his room, setting the tea on his tabletop that he usually had blueprints all over.

He had forgotten sugar cubes, but he didn’t think it mattered all too much anymore.

Chapter Text

Newton pulled the ties from the post nearest the boat, throwing the rope onto the small craft. He was going to visit Marlon yet again, who he’d been seeing since he’d met him. They’d grown close over time, almost enough to suggest that they were dating. Of course, Newton would never admit that.

He jumped onto the boat, hitting the rotors and getting them spinning. He knew the course to Manglewood Swamp’s dock by heart- he didn’t really have to think about it anymore when he went to leave. It was foggy, yes, but he didn’t have to see to know when and how far to turn the boat slightly.

It had recently turned night; Newton was smart enough to learn when to leave so as to not wake his parents. Nana Pud didn’t care if he went out at night- she didn’t worry as much as his dad did. Mostly because he was just worried if he’d have a son to have marry the Bunkum princess, so he’d inherit all the wealth that came with marrying into the royal family.

Newton didn’t like thinking about his father very much. The mere thought of him made him on edge. He hadn’t told his dad much about his nightly expeditions, he probably didn’t even know who Marlon was. Yet, Newton still worried about what would happen if he did know. Especially considering that his father just wanted a perfect son- nothing but. If he couldn’t marry the princess... Well, he didn’t want to think about how badly he’d be ridiculed.

Thinking about his father also brought about thoughts concerning the Pud family tradition for the youngest son. It was coming up soon, wasn’t it? He made a mental note to check his calendar for when exactly. He’d be put through the cloning process in the next few weeks, if he remembered correctly. Though, it would probably be sooner, considering what he’d been told of Captain Pud’s clone. He’d been told a rumor that he’d- no, it’d committed suicide, succumbed to the Titans’ power. And the Titans can only inhabit a dead body for so long before breaking free of the binds keeping them inside it. So, perhaps it’d be even sooner than that...

He didn’t like thinking about it very much. On top of that, not long after that, he’d be marrying Pinky Buflooms against his will. His parents wanted it to be as soon as possible to keep him from running away, so they’d decided he’d be cloned, then married not even a week or two later. It didn’t make sense to him- how they were allowed to do something like this.

The dock came into view, and he was startled from his thoughts by Marlon waving at him, waiting at the dock for a glimpse of the boat. “Newton! I almost thought you wouldn’t show tonight!”

Newton stopped the boat, getting off and tying the boat to a post. Marlon had repurposed some old wood pieces into a post so Newton wouldn’t have to drop and bring up the anchor every time, and he was grateful for that. “I wouldn’t just not show up unless something truly terrible happened, you know.” He got off the boat, taking Marlon’s hand as he did so. Marlon seemed awfully cheerful tonight, yet Newton didn’t find himself very surprised. He was always the more upbeat and optimistic of the two- Newton tended to have cruddy anxiety issues (mostly due to his family) and had his moments of pessimism often. He’d developed a fidgeting habit due to his anxiety; he noticed over time.

“We don’t have much time, I wanna show you something cool I found!” Marlon pulled him along the dirt path, which had become less muddy over time. Manglewood Swamp had its seasons, just as everywhere else on Bunkum did. Currently, Newton remembered it was in the middle of a “dry season”. Yeah, he laughed too when he found out this was a dry season.

Marlon showed him to a spot behind some shrubbery, where he pulled back some branches. “See? I haven’t touched it, I’m unsure what it could be.” It was a glowing purplish-pink orb, laid upon the grass. Newton recognized it, but Marlon hadn’t. “I think it’s a marble to aid in summoning one of the Heroes.” He looked at it but didn’t touch it. “It is pretty.” He quietly said, as Marlon put the branches back. “I wouldn’t touch it, even if it’s pretty!” Marlon seemed fearful of the mysterious object. “Though, maybe you think it’s got something to do with Oddsock? The hero that used to reside here?” He shrugged, turning away and glancing at Newton. Newton thought for a moment. “Perhaps... I suggest just leaving it be for now. The Heroes deserve their rest, after all.” He stepped away. “So, I know you don’t have a boat of your own, but I’ve always wanted to show you the Stitchem shores... Would you like to come on a boat ride with me, chum?” He asked, fidgeting once again.

Marlon beamed. “Like to? I’d love to! He hugged Newton tightly, not letting go even after a few moments. When he did, it was to continue the conversation. “Lead the way, Newton!”

Thankfully, this time, Newton knew where the dock was, and led Marlon to the boat. Marlon got on while he untied the boat from the post, tossing the rope on the boat before getting on himself. He spun the rotors of his mother’s watercraft (made with spoons), and the boat left the harbor at a calm pace. Newton took the steers of the boat, setting it toward Stitchem.

Marlon looked from the sides in awe, watching Manglewood Swamp fade into the nightly fog and Stitchem coming into view instead. It was a step up from the swamp he lived in, he knew. He pointed to Stitchem, and speaking to Newton with excitement in his voice. “Is that it?” He eyed the shores, then looked to the manor that loomed in the fog.

“Yep! And that,” Newton gestured to the manor, “is where I live.” He then located the dock, pointing to it. “See, and there’s the dock. I’m currently trying to build my own boat, so I don’t have to keep using this one, but it works fine.”

Marlon noticed the unfinished boat that lay on the dock, assuming it must be Newton’s. Newton made sure to keep a fair distance from the manor, so the boat would still be stuck in the fog. He didn’t want to risk being seen, especially with a passenger.

He let go of the controls, making sure the boat was going slow enough to not veer towards Stitchem. Newton steeled his nerves, and looked to Marlon. “So, I have-” Marlon cut him off, saying almost the same thing. “Actually I wanted to sa- No, wait, you first.”

“You can go first, it’s fine.” Newton nervously said, beginning to fidget once more. Marlon nodded. “Okay, ah... I wanted to ask...” This was the most nervous Newton had ever seen the film star. Marlon gulped. “Do you want to... Kiss?”

Newton was taken slightly off-guard. He was going to ask that. “I was going to ask the same thing, but I thought it was too out of the blue to ask...” He sheepishly looked away, then nodded. “I-I’d like to.”

Despite not having a physical mouth to kiss with, Newton knew Marlon could still attempt it. The two awkwardly approached the other, Marlon putting his arms around the back of Newton’s neck to bring him in. Neither Marlon nor Newton had experience with kissing, let alone romance, but Newton figured Marlon had at least more experience than he, so he let Marlon take the lead.

Marlon pressed a soft kiss to Newton’s bulb, holding him up and moving his left hand across his , supporting him. They both shared the romantic moment for a few seconds, before a sharp yell pierced through the calm silence.

“NEWTON! GET THE BOAT OVER HERE, NOW!”

Marlon instantly let go, almost letting Newton fall at how startled he was. Newton’s face crackled red with flustered sparks, stumbling backwards when he’d heard his father. He stepped back, wordlessly steering the boat to the dock.

Marlon stammered. “I-I… I’m really sorry, Newton-“

Newton cut him off, uncharacteristically quiet. “It’s not your fault. Just… Stay quiet and be respectful if you’re spoken to.”

Marlon nodded, his mouth dry. His first impression of Newton’s father wasn’t exactly the best already, but seeing him in person…

It scared him.

Chapter Text

“Newton, what were you thinking?” Captain Pud sternly asked as Newton and Marlon got off the boat. “Running off in the middle of the night like that, and…” He looked at Marlon with an indiscernible expression that neither of them liked. Newton knew Captain Pud saw them, even in the dense fog that plagued Stitchem during the nightly hours.  

“I am very disappointed in you, Newton.” He wasn’t visibly angry, but Newton already wanted to cry. Thankfully, before Captain Pud could say much more, Nana Pud emerged from the manor, joining the three by the dock.   

“My Newty! Captain Pud said the boat was gone, and I was worried sick!” She said, her voice full of concern for her son. She looked to Marlon. “And who’s this young man?”  

Captain Pud answered for Newton, his tone cold. “They were… Kissing, on the boat by the shore.” Nana Pud stared at him for a few moments, trying to understand what was wrong. Captain Pud then added, “what of the marriage? Between him and the princess?”  

Nana Pud nodded. “Oh. You’ve got a point…” She hesitated. “Right.”  

Marlon looked to Newton, as if for clarification on… Well, everything. He had heard about the marriage before, but only in brief passing. He was suddenly called by Nana Pud. “What’s your name, young man?” Her voice was kind, and Captain Pud looked at her with a glare that could kill. Marlon responded shakily and shyly, unlike himself. “M-Marlon, ma’am. Marlon Random.”  

“Must be some lowly sackperson from Manglewood Swamp.” Captain Pud rudely interjected, glaring now at his son. “Newton, this was the best you could do? My dear, take this Marlon back where he belongs. Stitchem is no place for him.”  

Nana Pud wished to be able to stay to deescalate the situation between her husband and her son, but she couldn’t. Not at Captain Pud’s will, she couldn’t. She turned to Marlon. “Come on, Marlon, I’ll take you back to where you belong home safe.” She ushered him back to the boat, and Marlon and Newton exchanged nervous glances. Captain Pud harshly grabbed Newton by the shoulder while Nana Pud and Marlon sailed away into the thick fog towards Manglewood Swamp. His voice was but a hiss, a low dramatic growl. “I’m doing something I should have done a long time ago.” He yanked on Newton’s coat, dragging him along. Newton yelped out in pain, as his father took him to the extended laboratory that was connected to the manor. The laboratory was often abandoned when Captain Pud wasn’t home for long periods of time, and Newton wished it would stay that way now.  

Captain Pud shoved him into a capsule machine, slamming the door shut on him. There was no light in the pod, and no window to stare his father down. All he could hear was energy pulsing below his feet, before spiraling up his core and shocking him from the inside. And he screamed.  

Newton couldn’t physically cry real tears. Never had the ability to. But he yelled out in pain, his screams wavering as if he were about to. He drew in sharp breaths, as one wave of pain passed as another one came.  

And then, it suddenly stopped. The door opened, and he collapsed onto the tile. He looked up at his father, who was holding sharp scissors in his hand, and to his right, where he’d heard footsteps.  

He didn’t think he’d see himself coming out of the other side of the machine.  

“Just focus on me, Newton.” Captain Pud grabbed Newton’s bulb and shoved the scissors deep into his chest, drawing out his Popit from his core. Newton struggled, screaming in pain. Stuffing spilt on the ground before him, he didn’t even have a chance to try to get up before he was mercilessly stabbed into by his own dad.  

His Popit thread was a beautiful amber color, and it was currently the only thing he could focus on to dull the pain he felt. He hoped to whatever God ruled Bunkum that the adrenaline would kick in any minute now. Captain Pud held the scissors, an emotionless expression on his face as he knew he was about to permanently mutilate and cripple his only real son.  

He snapped at the thread once with the scissors. The Popit thread didn’t break. Then he tried to clip it again. It frayed slightly. He brought the scissors down one last time, and there was only a thin string left that connected Newton’s Popit thread to his Popit.  

“Papa, please…” He didn’t have the energy to scream at him any longer, his voice a quiet raspy beg for forgiveness. Captain Pud stared him down for a moment, as if weighing his options, and cut the Popit thread away. The Popit flickered and faded away, as if it’d never been a part of him. It was one of the only things he could rely on, using it for inventions and crafting all his life- and the person he thought he could trust most had permanently cut it apart, unusable and only a short thread remained that he could still summon.  

He screamed out in terror and in pain, and everything went black.  

Marlon nervously trembled. He was never usually one to worry about things- That had been Newton’s job in the relationship- though he was fearful of what would happen to Newton. His father looked really angry to him. Nana Pud seemed to notice his unease. “I’m sure Newty will be fine. His father’s never done anything drastic to ‘im before.”  

He sat down on the boat. “I’ve just heard things about Captain Pud from him that don’t... Sound too good.” He sighed. Nana Pud seemed a bit... Proud? “I don’t know what Captain Pud is on about sometimes. You seem like a good partner for Newton to me, judging by how much you worry about ‘im.” She looked off, somewhat wistful. “I often regret marrying that man.”  

Marlon looked over to her. “Really? But you two seem like you’re... I don’t know, deeply in love?” He didn’t understand.  

Nana Pud shook her head. “That’s what he’d want anyone to think. I believe we fell out of love many years ago. He was the one that wanted Newty, after all.” She sighed, as if recollecting her past. “I don’t regret having Newton, why, he’s a delight! But marrying Captain Pud was one of the worst decisions I made.” The shores of Manglewood Swamp came into view. “Is this it?” She asked him. She knew it was, but she just wanted to make sure she was correct. She hadn’t been over to Manglewood Swamp in a while, not since it fell into as much disrepair as it had.  

Marlon nodded. “It is.” Nana Pud veered the boat over to the dock. “Just know that you will always have my blessing for you and Newton’s relationship, even if nobody else gives you one. And, personally, with Captain Pud? Fuck ‘im. He can’t do nothin’, that’s for sure.” She laughed, ushering Marlon off the boat. “Go on now. I’ll make sure Newton’s safe for ya.”  

Marlon didn’t feel very reassured, but he nodded and got off the boat anyway. “Thank you, Mrs. Pud.”  

Nana Pud crossed her arms. “Just call me Nana Pud, dear. No need for formalities around me.” She started the boat once more as it’d been idling. “I’ll see ya around, don’t you worry.” She left the dock, back towards Stitchem.  

Marlon had a bad feeling in his gut that he just couldn’t describe.  

Chapter Text

Newton’s head still ached when he awoke, looking around in a daze. He was in the cellar of the manor, he recognized. He only had been down here once or twice, as it was never used. Except for...

He looked to the right of him, seeing a very familiar face. One that was dead and fizzled out already. It was Captain Pud’s clone, laying against the concrete floor with its face smashed to bits. Newton shuddered. Would that be him?

Pushing himself up, he looked around the cellar where his confines permitted. He could see the stairwell and the other unused cell, but other than that there was nothing else to really see in the dim light.

Where is that light coming from, anyway...? He knew there were no actual light sources in the cellar, other than his own, now, but this light he saw wasn’t yellow in color.

He saw three swirling orbs approach him, slamming into him with brute force and absorbing into his very being. And for the second time today, he blacked out and hit the floor with a dull crack.

Marlon tapped his foot impatiently, looking around the dock for a glimpse of the boat. He was starting to get worried, because Newton was never usually late. This time, he wasn’t just late, but straight-up missing.

What happened to him? Marlon was nervous. Had Captain Pud taken away the boat? Or had he increased his watch on Newton so he couldn’t leave? Many possibilities went through Marlon’s head, only making him more and more concerned for his lover than ever.

He saw the boat come into view, and he let out a sigh of relief. It was nice to see Newton, even though he was late by a long while. Marlon just decided it was probably Captain Pud’s fault for him being late.

“Sorry I’m late,” Newton apologized, docking the boat and standing by Marlon. Marlon moved to take Newton’s hand, but Newton moved it before he could. Huh. Marlon tilted his head slightly. Why would Newton avoid him?

“It’s... Fine. At least you’re here now, right?” Marlon spoke, trying to fill the awkward silence between them. He tried to not make it obvious that he was confused and suspicious of Newton.

“Yeah,” Newton quietly mumbled. The two walked on their usual path, but Newton seemed like he was just following him rather than walking on the path he remembered. “I can’t stay long; papa says I need to get ready for my big day tomorrow.” Newton said to him, sounding almost... Excited?

“Big day?” Marlon said, a twinge of confusion in his voice. “What’s going on tomorrow?” This was the first time Newton was talking about his dad without a hint of disdain.

“I’m getting married to the princess of Bunkum, Pinky Buflooms!” Newton smiled. “I’m quite excited, chum.” This only made Marlon more confused. “Why? But... You’ll still love me, right?” Marlon hoped the answer would be yes. He was starting to get suspicious of Newton, that something deeper was going on influencing his behavior, but he didn’t voice it yet.

“Papa says I can’t. I-I can’t be with you anymore...” Newton nervously spoke. He didn’t fidget with his hands as he usually would, and he looked ready to flee. “I’m sorry, I have to go.” Newton ran away, back to the dock.

“Newton!” Marlon yelled after him, but didn’t follow him. He seemed like he wanted to be alone, almost. Why was Newton acting so weird? He was never usually like this... And he looked like he wanted to marry someone else! Marlon watched Newton pull on the anchor after undoing the ties, noticing his odd behavior. He looked like he didn’t know how to bring up the anchor properly. Usually, he’d get on the boat and then pull up the anchor, if he even used the anchor at all after being able to tie the boat to the dock.

“That can’t be Newton...” Marlon muttered, turning away. He tried to think about why Newton was acting like this all of a sudden. He remembered something that was buried deep in his memories...

“It is. I just wanted to get my mind off my dad, I guess... There’s this... Thing, that I have to do soon, as the only son of the Pud family. My dad is supposed to clone me and leave the clone in the cellar with the Titans.”

“Captain Pud would never...” Had his Newton been switched out for a clone that knew next to nothing about him? About… Anything? Was this all Captain Pud’s doing?

He hadn’t really known much about Captain Pud that wasn’t from Newton’s bizarre retellings, but from how he was always depicted, he was honorable and kind. This just didn’t seem like something someone so honorable would do... But... Based on things he’d heard from Newton, it didn’t seem so far-fetched...

He knew that if he wanted to go to Stitchem Manor, he needed a boat. Which, he didn’t have. He’d just rely on Newton for a boat, after all!

Marlon paced, trying to think. How could he get ahold of a boat? He did know someone, though he did already owe him a couple hundred Collectabells...

He started on the path towards Gustavo’s auto shop. He wasn’t on the best terms with the guy after accidentally crashing a car into a tar pit (which he was barely able to get out of!), but it was worth a shot.

Please help me, Gustavo...

Chapter Text

Marlon walked at first but started running towards Gustavo’s auto shop, the little building coming into view among the swamp’s trees. He hadn’t seen the mechanic in quite some time, though after crashing one of Gustavo’s cars into a tar pit, he wasn’t exactly welcomed, either. It’ll be fine! We’re still friends! Marlon hoped. Gustavo was outside repairing under a car and heard Marlon approach.  

“Gustavo, I need your help!” Marlon pleaded, standing by the car. The mechanic pushed himself out from underneath the vehicle, oil slicked all over his hands and forearms. That can’t be healthy, can it...? Marlon thought to himself. Gustavo looked at him like he’d grown a second head. “You need my help? After the damages you did to my car -” Gustavo paused, groaning. “What is it, hermano?” He sounded irritated to see him but offered to hear him out. Marlon took in a deep breath. “Can you build me a boat?” He checked his Popit. “I have 30 Collectabells?” He nervously laughed. He knew that wouldn’t be even close to enough for a whole boat, but he hoped that Gustavo would agree.  

“... You think I’m estúpido?” Gustavo wiped off his hands with a rag. “I don’t do boats, and even then, you still owe me 1,598 Collectabells!” He grumbled. Marlon didn’t think he’d ever see the day when Gustavo was so angry at him. Sure, he owed him a lot of money, and he did take his car for a bit of a joy ride, but still! Still!  

Gustavo sighed. “I’ll do this just once, amigo... But you are helping!” He pointed the dirty rag at Marlon in an accusatory motion. Marlon raised his hands. “I can help! I can help!” He was glad Gustavo was just agreeing to build a boat. Even if he had to do some of the dirty work himself, he didn’t mind. “Bueno. Come on, we have work to do.” He led Marlon into the auto shop, and looked at a few parts he had laying around, trying to decide how he could make a proper boat out of them. “I don’t think I can do a motorboat... A sailboat may work, though...” He mused to himself, looking around the auto shop for spare parts. “Right. I will weld, firstly. You will give me tools. Sí?”  

Marlon sighed. This was much easier than he thought it was going to be. He thought Gustavo would have him practically building the whole boat! He did feel bad for not wanting to do the most work out of the two, though, seeing as he was getting the boat for free... He picked up the toolbox and sat by Gustavo as he got set up with spare pieces of scrap metal.  

After a few hours of sitting in the shop and handing Gustavo tools (and occasionally nailing down things like the fabric sails), the boat looked ready to be put out to the dock. “Thank you, Gustavo! Gracias?” Marlon laughed. Him and Gustavo had sort of repaired their broken friendship over the time they took to build the boat. “It’s really nothing, Marlon.” He attached the boat to his prized car, getting inside and pulling the sailboat out of the shop. Him and Marlon had to tug it the rest of the way, though it wasn’t that heavy. They got it into the water without much struggle, the boat swaying on impact.  

“Do you... Want the 30 Collectabells?” Marlon laughed. Gustavo shrugged. “You can start paying me off for the car you wrecked.”  

Marlon handed over a small sum of Collectabells, all he had in his Popit at the time. He did still feel guilty about the whole situation, he didn’t mind paying off Gustavo bit by very miniscule bit.  

Marlon got on the boat, messing with the sails for a bit, before waving to Gustavo. “Thanks for the boat! I’m off to save Newton, in the name of love!” He yelled, pulling on the sails. The boat shot forward, towards Stitchem.  

Gustavo stood, watching the boat fade into the fog. “Who’s Newton?”  

Marlon maneuvered throughout the swampy fog, until he had seen Stitchem come into view. He had gone in circles a couple of times, sure, but he found his way eventually! He brought the sailboat to the dock, tying it up and hopping off onto the wooden dock. Despite how weathered the dock looked, it held his weight without even creaking.  

He looked around the manor, trying to find a good spot to break in legally enter by. He crouched low, trying not to make any noise. “There!” He found an open window, crawling into the house. He clumsily dropped through the window, a loud thud accompanying his fall. It’s fine, just a little setback! He ducked behind the fancy sofa in the living room, looking around. Boy, this house is huge... He thought to himself, rolling across the ground and making severely more noise than if he’d just walked.  

He crashed into a table, sending a fancy vase to the ground. He caught it before it hit the tile, placing it gently back on the table with a sigh of relief. That could’ve ended badly... He paused, hearing footsteps come down the stairs. “Who’s there? Show yourself!” Nana Pud swung a flashlight across the living room, before the light fell on him. Marlon squeaked in surprise. “Marlon?” Nana Pud asked, approaching him. “Why are you back here?” She practically whisper-yelled. “Captain Pud’ll find you, and he doesn’t take kindly to visitors!” She seemed less worried that he’d broken in legally entered the home, and more worried about if Captain Pud woke up because of the noise he’d accidentally made.  

“I’m trying to find Newton! I don’t think the one that visited me was the real one, and I’m,” his voice cracked, “I’m trying to find the real Newton, the one I know.”  

Nana Pud smiled. “I might know where he is. I can lead ya to the cellar, but you can’t get me in there. Captain Pud would fry me, and I’ve got to get back to bed before he notices I’m gone. Okay?”  

Marlon shivered. “Aren’t the Titans kept in there?” Nana Pud had wondered why he’d known that fact, though she assumed Newton had told him. “They are. If Newton- My Newton- is trapped in there, he might already be plagued by those nasty Titans. Be careful with him.” She really didn’t want someone else to get hurt, especially someone who was supposed to be out of the crossfire entirely. Sure, even the Titans couldn’t escape the cellar, but she didn’t want Marlon to try anything.  

Marlon nodded. “Take me to him.”  

Chapter Text

Nana Pud stayed by the stairway to the cellar, watching Marlon descend the stairs. She turned and headed back up the stairs, to her and Captain Pud’s shared room. “Good luck,” she whispered. He’ll need it.  

Marlon shuddered. The cellar felt creepy. After living in a nearly abandoned swamp for most of his life, you’d think he’d have gotten used to creepy, but the cellar sent chills down his spine. It was dark, the only light source being a dim purple glow that occasionally flickered yellow and off. “Marlon! Over here!” Newton yelled out for him, grabbing the bars and looking at him. He was trying hard to not let the Titans get the best of him, and Marlon could tell he was fighting. 

“Newton! You’re hurt…” He looks terrible. Marlon couldn’t see much in the dim light that Newton gave off, flickering off now and then, but he could tell there were cracks all over Newton’s glass head. 

“Nothing I haven’t endured before, chum,” Newton forced a smile, but Marlon could tell it was fake. Marlon shook his head. “It doesn’t change the fact that you’re still hurt. ” Marlon glanced back to the stairwell, trying to gauge if anyone was up there (aside from Nana Pud). Nothing stirred. He looked back to Newton, his gaze worried. 

“We have to get you out of here, if anything.” Marlon was surprisingly coherent and serious, despite his usual demeanor. He looked for a lock on the cell door. 

“But the Titans! What if… I can’t control them?” Newton mumbled. Marlon shook his head. “You’ve been doing it now long enough for me to still talk to you, you know. Nana Pud warned me about that… But I’ll get you out, and everything will be fine!” He found a lock, pulling a hairpin out of his film-reel hair and bending it into a lockpick. “Really, Marlon, I don’t need saving… I’ll be fine-“ Newton spoke, but Marlon cut him off, glancing up from the lock. “Newton, I love you, okay? I’m not going to let you die here.” He pressed the badly-fashioned lockpick into the lock, turning it a few times. 

Despite the sentimental statement, Newton couldn’t help but mumble, “You’re doing it wrong, you know…” He tried to open his Popit, to pull out a screwdriver, but only two amber threads appeared with no Popit attached. Newton closed it before Marlon could notice, he didn’t want Marlon to worry any more than he already had. He fished a small pocket screwdriver out of his coat pocket, handing it through the bars to Marlon. “Thanks,” Marlon said quietly, fitting the screwdriver in the lock with the lockpick. It only took a few moments of trial and error, and a muttered “this was easier in the movies” from Marlon, before the lock clicked open, falling to the ground with a dull clatter. Marlon swung open the door, bringing Newton into a hug despite the warnings. Newton’s light flickered purple and yellow a few times, as he tried to keep the Titans down. 

“C’mon, let’s get you to Manglewood. You’ll be safest there.” He led Newton up the stairs, back the way he’d came (excluding the clumsy usage of the window, they went through the front door this time). The two ran out to the dock, Marlon helping Newton onto the boat. In the bright moonlight, he could see the extent of Newton’s injuries- and they were bad.  

Marlon quietly gasped. Newton looked at him as if nothing was wrong, had ever been wrong. “Newtonnnn…” He whined, hugging Newton tightly again. Newton coughed. “Marlon, it’s fine, really!” He tried to smile. “I’m sure I have some glass glue somewhere in my pockets. You can help fix me up when we get to Manglewood, okay?” He wanted to offer Marlon a chance to help him- he knew Marlon would’ve just done it anyway even if he told him a thousand times it was okay. 

Marlon nodded, untying the boat and bringing up the sails. “Of course!” He grabbed the steers of the sailboat, going on the course back to Manglewood Swamp. Along the way, Newton had asked where Marlon got a whole boat. 

“I got Gustavo to build me one. Well, I helped, but only a little bit.” He spoke. Newton tilted his head. “Didn’t you crash his car into a tar pit?” Newton laughed. “How’d you get him to help you?” 

Marlon shrugged. “Just a little convincing.” He smiled. “You know I’m good at that!” 

As the boat sailed towards Manglewood Swamp, the two chatted as if nothing was wrong. As if Newton wasn’t currently fighting possession by three eldritch gods, and if Marlon hadn’t just reverse kidnapped Newton. Everything would be fine! 

Marlon jumped off the boat with a dramatic flourish, helping Newton down. “I can get off a boat by myself, you know.” He said, internally grateful for the help. His legs still felt a bit shaky. He entwined his hand with Marlon’s, as Marlon led him down the familiar trodden path through Manglewood. Newton had never seen Marlon’s home, though he’d heard that Marlon inherited it when his parents mysteriously went missing many years ago. Marlon had stopped looking for them a long time ago, though. 

Surprisingly, his home looked cozy, amid the mud and swampy fog. It looked like Marlon truly put his all into upkeeping it by himself. Marlon helped him inside and let him sit down on the couch. “Do you want some tea?” He knew Newton liked tea- the kind he had might not be the right one, but it was tea, nonetheless. One of the only things Newton liked about home, really. 

“Yes, please,” Newton nodded. He grabbed a comfy looking pillow and shoved it under his head, half laying across the sofa. He looked through his several coat pockets for any glass glue he had, pulling out a small little bottle of it. Marlon brought back some tea in a small cup on a fancy dish. “There’s more on the stove if you want it.” He sat down next to Newton. “Want me to help you fix your head before you try drinking anything?” He laughed. 

Newton nodded. “Here, just be careful with it.” He handed over the small narrow-nozzle bottle of glass glue. He had been thrown around and injured before, though a little bit of glass glue made it look and feel like he’d never been hurt or cracked. Thankfully I’ve never had to deal with full-on shatters and pieces coming out...  

Marlon gently held Newton’s head, the other holding the bottle. He delicately applied the glue, and Newton watched him intently. Marlon could tell, the rounded sparks that were his eyes followed the bottle closely. 

“Relax, I’m not gonna put too much.” He moved his free hand, to Newton’s cheek. Small crackles of pink appeared across his facial features, as Marlon was being gentle with him. Marlon noticed, grinning. “How come whenever I’m not even trying to get you all flustered you end up-” He moved his hand slightly, moving it back when his hand became hot to the touch. “Woah!” He laughed, though Newton seemed embarrassed. “Are you alright, chum?” He asked, worried he’d accidentally burned Marlon. Marlon nodded. “Yeah, I’m fine. You’re just so hot!” He paused. “I mean, literally, not-” He stammered. 

Newton smiled. “I know what you meant.” He stilled, trying not to mess up Marlon as he resumed fixing him. His sparks flickered a purple color once more, the Titans still a looming threat behind his eyes. He willed them to stay down, the effort inside taking much more energy than he’d wished. 

Kill him!  

He’s in your way.  

If you wait, you’ll only make it worse!  

Newton gulped. The Titans were getting louder in his mind, driving him to kill his lover. He wouldn’t. He could keep them at bay until he could figure out what to do with them, he knew he could. 

“You good, Newton? You’re shaking like a leaf!” Marlon had a concerned gaze, holding the bottle back as to not mess up the strokes due to Newton’s trembling. 

“I-I’m fine,” Newton rasped. He hoped that Marlon was almost done filling in the cracks before long. He just wanted to rest, now. Marlon kept a soft hand on Newton’s cheek, holding him tightly yet gently. “I’m almost done, ok?” He dabbed some more glue on a crack, and before long he moved back, setting down the small bottle. “There, all done. You wanna go see?” 

Newton got up shakily. “Mhm...” Marlon showed him to the bathroom, and Newton looked in the mirror. “Oh, it’s like it never happened!” There weren’t any visible marks anymore, not even a small streak of stray glue. “Thank you, Marlon...” He hugged Marlon. Marlon held Newton close, making sure he felt safe. For such a fragile boy, he was rarely ever safe. Marlon felt bad that it was so. 

“You wanna go get in bed? I’ll put your tea on the nightstand.” Marlon held Newton still, his voice soft. Newton could only nod, already drifting off in Marlon’s warm embrace. 

Marlon laughed quietly to himself. He’s so cute... He carried Newton into his room, setting him on the bed. He left for a moment to go get the small cup of tea for him, setting it on the nightstand. “Night, Newton.” Marlon turned to leave, but Newton called out for him in a whisper. “Can you stay?” 

He turned, glancing at Newton. He was going to sleep on the couch that night, since he was giving up his bed to Newton, though he didn’t mind Newton’s request. “Of course.” Marlon softly smiled, getting into bed with Newton. Newton grabbed onto him like a lifeline, as if he wouldn’t be there tomorrow when he awoke. Newton’s light slowly dimmed, until it was as dark as the room around them. 

And then, Marlon’s eyes closed. 

Chapter Text

Marlon shook Newton awake, early too. “Whuh...” Newton woke up slowly, his light instinctively brightening and dimming to the available electricity he had stored until it reached a stable point. “What..?”  

“Newtontheresaweddingbetweenthecloneandtheprincessand-” Marlon took in a deep breath, about to keep going, when Newton stopped him. “Woah, slow down, Marlon!” He held up a hand, sitting up. “Say it again, but slower. Okay?”  

Marlon nodded. “There’s a wedding, between your clone and the princess! Oh, yeah, uh, you’ve had a clone running around acting like you this whole time... Well, not the whole time, but-”  

Newton got the gist of it. “I understand what you mean.” He paused. “Is my dad trying to replace me?” He shakily took in a breath. “No, no, no, no, he likes me, he wouldn’t just-” He choked up, and Marlon held his hand gently, rubbing a thumb over the back of it. “Shh... Newton, it’ll be fine. We’ll figure out what’s going on together.” He helped Newton out of bed. “I found out where the wedding is being held.” He held up his phone. “From your mom’s Facebook page. She does not look happy about it.” Marlon laughed, showing Newton the posts. It was jarring to see yourself getting married when you never had.  

“Do you think they’ve done the vows yet? We might be able to stop it-” Newton suggested, getting cut off by an extremely excited Marlon. “We get to object at a wedding? Like in the movies!” He grinned. Newton smiled, happy that at least Marlon could stay so upbeat in such a situation... “Yes, like in the movies, chum.” Newton stood by Marlon, holding his hand still. “Where is it?”  

“In Stitchem. Stitchem Green,” Marlon scrolled through the posts. “It’s actually pretty nice. Huh.” He put his phone in his pocket. “I know where the venue is, let’s get going before we waste too much time!”  

Newton couldn’t even ask about breakfast before Marlon pushed them both through the front door and down to the dock, jumping on the boat with valor and excitement. He was practically bouncing on his feet, ready to go crash a wedding with the love of his life.  

“C’mon, c’mon!” Marlon pulled up the sails as soon as Newton got on the boat. “We’ve got a wedding to attend!” He laughed, his spirits high. Newton couldn’t help but gain some of his positivity, head held high and looking to Stitchem in the distance.  

Wait... Stitchem? But we haven’t even left the dock... He realized the swampy fog that had always been shrouding Manglewood Swamp in mist was all cleared up today. Sometimes it did clear up a little here and there, but very rarely it ever did, especially so fully. Newton smiled. Maybe today will go in our favor! He felt as though Bunkum itself was sending the two a sign that despite how scary today may seem, they’d be okay.  

Marlon seemed to appreciate the same sentiment. “The Heroes must be showing us that there’s nothing to fear, Newton!” Ah, the Heroes. Just a fairytale... Though, perhaps they are real.  

Tugging on the sails, Marlon brought the boat towards Stitchem Green. It was different than the place where Newton lived, but it was close by the manor. He docked at a main port, his small little sailboat looking like a puppy compared to lions. There were several huge boats docked, looking like they may be here from the royal Bunkum Lagoon for the wedding.  

The two jumped off the boat, running down the dock into the moderately large town of Stitchem Green. Marlon pulled up the GPS on his phone, locating the venue. It was a huge open area, many rose themed decorations all around.  

“Newton Pud, do you take Princess Pinky Buflooms for your lawful wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do you part?”  

“I do.”  

“And Pinky Buflooms, do you take Newton Pud as your lawful husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better or worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do you part?”  

“I do!”  

“Then, if there are no objections, may the groom kiss the bride-”  

Nearly being held back by the true Newton, Marlon jumped over the fence that kept the venue enclosed and yelled at the top of his lungs,  

“I OBJECT!”  

Newton walked through the entryway, which had been right next to where Marlon had jumped over the fence. The attendees gasped, a few small, shocked remarks here and there.  

“ Two Newtons?”  

“Who is that?”  

“I didn’t know he had a twin !”  

Captain Pud stood up from where he was sitting in the front row, followed by (a very proud) Nana Pud. Captain Pud looked between Marlon and Newton. “I thought you were supposed to be in the cellar!” He furiously yelled at Newton. The cloned Newton stepped forward, Pinky watching him. “Why are we the same? Are you an impersonator?” He tilted his head, inspecting the real Newton, trying to look for any imperfections.  

“Well, we are. ” Newton began. “You see, Captain Pud cloned me, who is getting married, and cut my Popit thread. He then threw me into the cellar, where I was possessed by the Titans that our family keeps.”  

Several gasps came from the crowd, some murmuring to each other about the Titans and how Newton can’t be safe around them. However, Newton continued. “But Marlon saved me and took me back to Manglewood with him! He went through all the trouble of having someone make a boat for him and trying to find me just because he cared about me so much!” He paused, and glanced at Marlon, who gave him a thumbs up. “And I care about him a lot, too.”  

The clone nodded. “I see... I suppose I understand. I have someone who would give the world for me, too.” He looked to Pinky, who grumbled something mean, yet her expression betrayed her statement, showing a twinge of compassion for him.  

Captain Pud spoke up. “I may have underestimated you. Both of you.” He knew how much of an understatement that was. “Newton, you were always so creative, and I never paid attention to you. Marlon, you always showed true love for Newton, and I always brought myself between you both because of tradition.” He didn’t mention that said tradition was that he himself believed and was taught since he was young that love was only between man and woman, though both boys got the gist.  

Marlon wanted to turn to Newton and mutter what an understatement , but he didn’t. Mostly because he didn’t want to be dead. “Thank you, sir...” He mumbled.  

Captain Pud went on. “You both have my blessing.” He smiled, which was odd considering all the near horror stories Marlon had heard of the guy. And how he’d treated him before, too.  

“If Marlon truly is so willing and eager to be with my son after all this time, putting himself through danger for him so carelessly, then... Well, I suppose I should let him.” He turned to the cloned Newton. “As for the clone of Newton, well, I don’t see why the wedding cannot go on.”  

More murmurs rippled through the crowd in attendance.  

“ Why let it go on?”  

“He’s not real...”  

Nana Pud stood by her husband. “I agree. The clone can still be his own person, after all.”  

Everyone looked to Newton, lastly, to see what his opinion was on the whole matter. After all, it was him, and he was it. Newton stammered. “Well...” He looked to his clone. “Why not? He should be happy, too.”  

The clone smiled, whispering a quiet “thank you”.  

The wedding continued as normal, with Marlon and Newton sitting together, finally content. Maybe after the wedding, they could confront Captain Pud about... Well, everything, but for now...  

They were both happy.

Together.