Chapter Text
"Ensure your arms are extended away from your body without being completely stiff, and maintain a stable stance without spreading your feet too far apart," Technoblade advised Ranboo as he assisted the taller hybrid in adjusting his posture. He carefully positioned Ranboo's arms and legs, stepped back to ensure they were aligned properly, and held a wooden training pole.
"Excellent. Maintain that stance and recall the techniques I've shown you," Technoblade instructed as he stepped away, positioning himself a few feet from Ranboo and drawing his training pole. With his lengthy, silky pink hair tied back in a single braid to keep it away from his face, he advanced towards Ranboo. In response, Ranboo swiftly raised his pole to block Techno's overhead strike, the wooden poles meeting with a sharp clack as they clashed together. Despite the force of Technoblade's swing, Ranboo's arms trembled but managed to withstand the impact.
Meanwhile, across the forest clearing, Niki and Phil took a break under the shade of a towering redwood tree, seeking respite from the spring sun. The gentle breeze relieved them both as they observed the sparring session. Niki, focusing mostly on fixing up a hole in Technoblade’s cape with careful sewing and stitching, watched occasionally as the two engaged in combat. Meanwhile, Phil diligently recorded their activities in a journal, periodically glancing up to monitor the fight's progress before returning to his writing.
The duel concluded with Ranboo again falling to the ground, exhausted, while Techno stood, panting heavily, pointing the other end of his pole towards the Ender hybrid. "You did well, kid. That was an improvement from last time," Techno praised, lowering his pole and extending his hand to help Ranboo up. With a smile, Ranboo gratefully accepted Techno's hand, allowing him to assist in getting back on their feet.
Ranboo shoots Technoblade with a sheepish smile. “Thanks, but I must sit down for a bit now.” They reply before handing his pole to Techno and heading over to the rest of the group. Techno looks over to the group and holds up the two poles. “Alrighty then, who wants to go next? How about you, Phil? Itching to spar like old times?” He asks but Phil shakes his head with a smile. “Thanks, mate, but I’m writing a letter to Wilbur now.” The blonde explains before getting back to writing.
Niki's attention was piqued at the offer, causing her to pause her sewing and eagerly raise her hand. "Count me in!" Techno's gaze, glowing like rubies, fixed on her. For a moment, she braced herself for any hint of doubt from him, a flicker of skepticism she was used to. But after a year of knowing him and the rest of the group, she dismissed that possibility as unlikely.
Technoblade shrugged and extended the staff towards her. "Alright then, let's see what you've got." Niki delicately set aside her cape and needle, then rose from her seat. She jogged over to the pink-haired Piglin hybrid, taking the staff from him. The familiar weight of the weapon brought her comfort, and she quickly assumed her position a few feet away from Technoblade.
With barely a moment's notice, Technoblade lunged toward Niki, mirroring his previous move with Ranboo. However, the quick-witted woman swiftly sidestepped to the right, then retaliated by thrusting the pole towards him. Yet, Technoblade effortlessly deflected her attack with his pole. A dynamic exchange of blows ensued as they clashed their poles, each treating them as double-sided swords in a fluid back-and-forth motion.
A smile crept across Niki's face as she and Technoblade slipped into a near-perfect rhythm with their fighting. For her, the activity was not only soothing but also a release for the pent-up rage that seemed to grow stronger within her every day. The regular training spars with The Syndicate provided a much-needed outlet, allowing her to vent without the others realizing the extent of her emotions.
In that fleeting moment when Niki briefly let her guard down, Technoblade seized the opportunity, swiftly evading her swing and expertly sweeping her legs from beneath her. Gasping as she tumbled to the ground, Niki found herself staring up at Technoblade, his weapon pointed at her, towering over her.
"Remarkable improvement since our last duel," he remarked, his tone genuine. "Keep it up, and you'll become truly unstoppable." With a gracious gesture, he extended his hand to her, much like he had with Ranboo. Despite the fluttering sensation in her chest at his praise, Niki accepted his hand and rose to her feet.
"Hey guys, notice the sun setting? Maybe it's time we set up camp for the night," Ranboo suggested, his gaze drifting upward to the slowly shifting hues of red and orange painting the sky.
Technoblade glanced at the sky momentarily before shrugging. "Nah, let's just head back to that nearby village and stay at the inn. It'll be quicker and easier."
"But what if someone recognizes us and turns us in?" Phil interjected, voicing a valid concern. Techno shook his head dismissively. "They don't care. Didn't see any wanted posters of us around, so we should be fine for one night."
With their decision made, the group gathered their belongings. Niki delicately folded Techno's cape and draped it over her arm before the quartet set off toward the village they had recently passed.
-
"Watch out, Lethe!" Niki's warning pierces the air as she swiftly interposes herself between Ranboo and an oncoming royal guard, deflecting their strike with her shield. With a decisive lunge of her sword, she forces the guard to step back, creating a momentary opening. Seizing the opportunity, she and Ranboo bolt down the street, making a beeline for the village exit as per Techno and Phil's instructions, should they encounter any guards who recognize them.
But just as they could see the end of the road before the village turned into forest, Ranboo suddenly stopped and grabbed Niki’s sleeve, yanking her back. She turns to look at Ranboo with confusion. “What are you doing? We have to get out of here!”
“No, but wait, I think I forgot my memory journal in the inn! I can’t leave it!” Ranboo explains quickly, panicking about the lost possession.
Panicked, Niki scans the area, her heart pounding as she spots the guards closing in. With a glance towards the forest, she makes a split-second decision. "Alright, keep running towards the forest. Find Protesilaus and Zephyrus, and wait for me there! I'll handle this," she declares, darting back towards the village without a second thought. Meanwhile, Ranboo hesitates briefly before sprinting off in search of Techno and Phil.
Out of nowhere, a royal guard lunges at Niki, but her reflexes kick in, and she deftly dodges the attack, maintaining her momentum towards the inn. Upon reaching it, Niki bursts through the door, disregarding the startled gasps from onlookers and the bewildered gaze of the woman at the front desk. Racing up the stairs, she skips steps, eager to reach their room from the previous night. To her relief, it remains unoccupied, allowing her to enter without delay.
Frantically, she ransacks the room, overturning drawers and tossing aside sheets, searching every nook and cranny in desperation. Despite her thorough efforts, the journal remains elusive. "Where could it be...?" she murmurs in frustration, on the brink of conceding defeat and returning to Ranboo empty-handed. However, as she turns around, her heart sinks at the sight of five royal guards surrounding her, their swords poised menacingly, blocking her only escape route.
"Nemesis of The Syndicate, you stand accused of toppling numerous empires and kingdoms and embracing a life of anarchy, by order of King George of the Kinoko Kingdom," the guard, likely the Captain, declares solemnly, while his comrade readies handcuffs. Niki's gaze hardens, her teeth clenched as she draws her sword from its sheath.
"I'm not surrendering to you," she retorts defiantly, though inwardly she knows her odds of emerging from this unharmed are slim. She spotted a narrow gap amidst the group and instinctively dashed for it. Despite her desperate attempts to fend off attacks from all sides, she couldn't evade the sharp pain that shot through her side. A piercing sword tore into her, eliciting a scream before it was cruelly withdrawn.
Niki collapses to her knees, folding inward as she clutches her side, waves of sharp, unrelenting pain coursing through her body. Her breath comes in heavy gasps as she struggles to ignore the spreading warmth and dampness seeping through her hands and staining her once-clean shirt. Amidst the chaotic clamor of shouting guards, their words blend into an indistinct murmur against the backdrop of Niki's agony and frantic attempts to alleviate it with each strained breath.
In a sudden, brutal motion, one of the guards seized a handful of Niki's short pink hair and grasped her shoulder with a harsh grip, forcibly hauling her to her feet. Agony surged through her body, causing her to falter and crumple once more. Amidst the chaos, the guards yelled commands for her to walk, pushing her toward the inn's exit. Niki struggled to stay upright, allowing herself to be propelled forward in a blur of concerned and surprised faces, surrounded by murmurs, as she was dragged out of the inn.
Her hopes of remaining concealed dashed in an instant.
Two guards flung open the doors to a cage at the rear of the carriage and forcefully tossed Niki inside, heedless of her pained yelp. With a resounding slam, they sealed the doors shut and secured them with a lock.
In the suffocating darkness of the cage, unconsciousness swiftly enveloped Niki.
-
Niki found herself in a bewildered and frustrated haze, propped against the harsh, unforgiving brick wall of the castle dungeon. Despite receiving enough treatment to stave off the threat of blood loss, her side still throbbed relentlessly. It was a temporary fix, they said. Sweat dripped down her body, mingling with the grime and blood, making her clothes cling uncomfortably to her skin and exacerbating the discomfort of her bandaged wound.
The dungeon exuded a chilling yet stifling atmosphere, illuminated only by the feeble glow of a flickering lantern that cast a dim light, barely penetrating the cramped confines. The sporadic drip of water resonated softly against the solid ground, almost forming a rhythmic pattern. Yet amidst these surroundings, all Niki could focus on was the relentless ache in her side and the seething anger directed at the guard who had apprehended her. Their words echoed incessantly in her mind.
"At sunrise, you shall face public execution before the entire kingdom, condemned to hang for your crimes. A punishment, I dare say, too lenient, but such are the king's decrees."
"So, what's your story, young one?" A raspy voice shattered the silence, causing Niki to startle and snap her head towards another cell in the corner opposite hers. She had momentarily forgotten she wasn't alone in this dismal place. There, she saw a much older woman with gray, unkempt hair, resembling frayed hay, dressed in nothing but rags. Her right ankle was shackled to the wall, her breath shallow and labored, even audible from across the dungeon.
Niki eyed her warily, suspicion narrowing her gaze. The woman seemed to sense her distrust and offered a dry chuckle. "Don't fret, dear. I'm not here to cause harm. Even if I inclined, I lack the means." Niki managed to suppress her instincts enough to acknowledge the truth in the woman's words, realizing she likely wouldn't encounter her again regardless.
"I'm part of a band of anarchists, toppling kingdoms and governments across the land," Niki stated bluntly. This revelation prompted a surprised reaction from the woman, followed by the woman's boisterous laughter, the sound reverberating within the confined space. "Well, that's certainly a first! I've heard many tales, but yours is truly unique."
"What about you...? Why are you here? Are you facing execution too?" Niki inquired, her curiosity piqued by the old woman's story.
"You'd think so, wouldn't you? But no, not quite. I've been languishing down here for quite some time now. My crime? Having an affair with the King's right-hand man's wife," the woman explained, a hint of bitterness underlying her words. "Since the King and his confidant are thick as thieves, I was condemned to this darkness, denied the mercy of execution. Sometimes, I wish they had shown me that kindness."
With a wry smirk, the woman continued, "But I've encountered many like you, dear. People of all stripes and sizes are brought down here for a variety of offenses. Some worse than others, only to disappear without a trace the next day."
"Which is why I was taken aback to see a delicate creature like you caught up in all this anarchy," the woman remarked with a light chuckle. However, Niki's brows knitted together, her eyes narrowing once more. "I've taken lives. I'm not defenseless," she retorted sharply, but the woman remained unperturbed.
"As I've said, I've been down here a long while. I've encountered many like you—those who appear innocent but possess unexpected strength. While I commend your prowess, truly, I've come to realize that such displays often mask deeper insecurities and emotions," the woman explained calmly.
"You're clueless! Just some old hag spouting nonsense!" Niki retorted sharply, her simmering frustration beginning to boil over. It wasn't the accusation itself that stung, but the uncomfortable truth it carried. "Typical. You resort to anger to shut people up, hoping they won't dig deeper," the woman remarked, fueling Niki's frustration even more.
"Fine! Your opinion is worthless! My friends will bail me out, and then I won't have to lay eyes on you ever again," Niki spat defiantly, but the woman merely shrugged off her retort. "Your 'anarchist' buddies, you mean? Doubt they'd risk it all for one person," she remarked casually.
"Ha! You underestimate them. They've got my back. Trust me, one of them could take down an entire army alone. They care about me, unlike you," Niki muttered, her voice trailing off as if she needed to reassure herself of their loyalty.
As the church bell chimed, signaling the dawn of a new day, a grim realization dawned on Niki: her time might be running out.
"If you're banking on your friends for salvation, you'd better pray they hurry," the woman warned her words carrying a weight of impending doom.
-
Dread consumed Niki, settling heavily in her stomach like a monstrous pit as she was led toward the looming gallows. A sea of onlookers gathered from all corners of the kingdom, awaited her demise with morbid anticipation.
Her heart sank. They hadn't come. Unless they were waiting until the very last moment, her friends weren't here to save her. How could they abandon her like this? She had believed they were different, a surrogate family who embraced her when she felt lost and alone. They were her sanctuary, her home.
Anguish and betrayal churned within her as anger bubbled to the surface. They were supposed to be brave, to stand by her side. Instead, they cowered in the shadows, leaving her to face her fate alone. With clenched fists and gritted teeth, she seethed at their cowardice. They could have at least attempted, instead of forsaking her to this grim fate.
As they ascended the wooden steps, passing yet another guard stationed atop the platform, a surge of adrenaline coursed through Niki. In a split second, she jabbed her elbow into one guard's gut and headbutted the other, causing them to release her with pained grunts. Swiftly seizing a sword from one of their hips, she could almost hear Technoblade's voice echoing in her mind amidst the chaos of gasps and screams from the guards and onlookers, though the thought of him now only fueled her simmering rage.
She swiftly memorized the positions of the guards, ensuring to deal with the nearest one first, followed by the second, and then the third. Progressing in this manner, she eventually succeeded in thrusting her sword through one guard's leg, swiftly swinging it back to knock off another guard's helmet, sending them tumbling. Seizing the opportunity, she raised her sword and drove it through the fallen guard's abdomen before withdrawing the bloodied blade. With agile precision, she leaped off the wooden platform onto the uneven cobblestone pathway below.
As screams echo and the crowd hastily disperses to avoid confrontation, Niki remains undistracted, her instincts urging her to swiftly make her escape before reinforcements arrive. Without hesitation, she dashes towards the nearby swampy forests, disappearing into the dense foliage as she blends seamlessly into the shadows of the treeline.
She continued her desperate sprint, gasping for air as she pushed herself onward, disregarding the returning pain in her side and the throbbing ache in her legs. She refused to ease her pace until the distant clamor of people and guards faded away. Only then did the tranquil symphony of chirping birds and the gentle murmur of a nearby stream fill her senses.
Slowing to a brisk walk, she grasped her side, wincing at the resurgence of pain that had shifted from a dull ache to a sharp stab. Pulling her hand away, she found it slick with wetness, stained crimson. Glancing down, she noticed an even deeper, more grotesque shade marring her already dirtied shirt - evidence of her wound reopening amidst the chaos.
Her sword-bearing wrist throbbed, an unwelcome sensation she couldn't immediately place. Yielding her body's signals, she sank against the sturdy trunk of a tree, allowing herself a moment to rest and regain her breath.
She closes her eyes, allowing the weight of recent events to settle in. Freedom may be hers now, and she might have slipped away from danger, but surviving in this unforgiving wilderness without proper medical care seems a daunting task. Years of wandering have taught her that swamps offer scant resources for sustenance, and her depleted energy renders even lifting a sword a Herculean feat.
Yet another concern nags at her: as night falls, creatures of the dark emerge, including menacing witches. In her weakened state, she stands little chance against such formidable foes.
As the rush of adrenaline subsides, excruciating pain grips her body, each movement eliciting cries of agony. Despite her vulnerability, anger simmers within her once more. She presents herself for landing in this predicament and seethes at the betrayal of those she once called kin.
Alone and forsaken, she faces the prospect of a pitiful demise – a fate she finds bitterly unjust.
"Hello?" The deep voice jolted Niki awake, her eyes snapping open as she scanned her surroundings frantically. Her gaze landed on a tall man standing a few feet away, next to a tree. He sported an eccentric ensemble—a baggy, dirty yellow sweater layered over an off-white shirt, paired with a brown corset. A brown leather belt, adorned with custom embroidery, cinched his waist, holding up a peculiar cream-colored skirt with a slit on the side, tied off at his hip. Brown diamond patterns adorned the skirt's hem. Completing the ensemble were baggy gray pants tucked into sturdy brown leather boots.
Perched atop his nose was a pair of sunglasses, and he held a peculiar brown stick fashioned into a question mark shape, with a lantern dangling from one end. Adding to the scene, two cats accompanied him: one brown and black striped, lounging on his shoulders, and another white with tan spots, rubbing against his legs.
Needless to say, the sight was far from what Niki had expected, but it did little to assuage her suspicions. Ignoring the pain in her side, she shifted away from him, her eyes narrowed. "Stay away from me! I'm armed, and I won't hesitate to defend myself!" she warned, though the man remained unfazed. Tilting his head, he watched as the cat on his shoulders leaped down to join its companion at his feet.
"I mean no harm. If anything, I want to offer assistance," he replied calmly, attempting to reassure her. But Niki shook her head vehemently. "I don't trust you, and I certainly don't need your help. I can manage just fine on my own," she retorted through gritted teeth as if her bleeding wound and encroaching dizziness were of no consequence.
He huffed, cracking a smirk. "I may be blind, but that doesn't mean I'm stupid," he commented, catching Niki off guard again. Despite his apparent blindness and lack of visible weapons, Niki believed she could defend herself against him, even with her injury. However, she wasn't about to be easily swayed. "Okay, how do I know I can trust you? And who are you, anyway? Why are you out here in the middle of a foggy swamp?" she demanded, her tone wary, as the man chuckled in response.
"I could ask you the same, but let's set that aside. I'm Eret, and these two feline companions are Mouse and Goose. We reside in a nearby hut. If you need assistance, I'm offering to help patch up that wound," he offered, but Niki remained skeptical. "So... you're a witch? Aren't witches the ones who live in swamps?" she inquired.
"Not always. Ordinary folks can live here too. But yes, I am a witch. However, I assure you I'm not like those who've lost their minds and prey on innocent travelers. I'm simply trying to live peacefully and aid weary travelers such as yourself," he explained, gradually inching closer to her.
Niki's mind raced through a labyrinth of worst-case scenarios. Could she truly trust a stranger in the heart of a swamp? Yet, with limited options, it seemed she had little choice. Either take a chance on this enigmatic figure offering aid or face the bleak alternative of perishing alone in the marshes. Besides, dwelling in this desolate landscape, he likely did not know her status as a wanted criminal, let alone her appearance, rendering any threat of betrayal moot.
As she weighed her options, the prospect of refuge in a warm, haven began to hold a certain allure. A place to rest, to heal, before contemplating her next move. But where would she go once she recovered? Her thoughts drifted to the painful absence of her friends and family, stoking the fires of anger within her. Clenching her fists against the damp earth, she resolved that upon her recuperation, she would seek out those so-called friends, demand answers, and exact her vengeance for their betrayal.
A sudden touch against her forehead jolted Niki, the chill of it sending shivers down her spine. She recoiled, scrambling away from Eret, who had knelt before her, his expression etched with concern—an unfamiliar sight that left her uneasy.
"You're not well. You've lost too much blood. You must come with me," he urged his voice steady but tinged with genuine worry. Though Niki found his concern peculiar, her head felt strangely empty, and she could do little more than slump forward, her eyelids growing heavy.
Eret swiftly caught her, supporting her weight as he lifted her arm over his shoulder, steadying her on trembling legs. "Try to stay conscious, just a little longer. We're almost at my hut; it's not far," he reassured her before guiding her away. Where they were headed, Niki couldn't muster the energy to ponder. Her thoughts were consumed by a tumult of anger and confusion, amplified by her feeble state as she was dragged across the murky expanse of the swamp.
As the dim outline of a hut emerged in the distance, faintly illuminated by scattered lights against the night sky, Niki's consciousness slipped away, enveloped by darkness.
And then, everything faded to black.
-
When Niki finally came to, she struggled to pry her eyes open, feeling a pleasant warmth enveloping her entire body as she lay on a soft surface. It was a sensation she couldn't quite recall experiencing before. Despite her head feeling as though it were stuffed with cotton, it wasn't an unpleasant sensation. After a bit of effort, she managed to crack her eyes open, squinting against the subdued lighting of the unfamiliar room she found herself in.
The room was adorned with walls and flooring crafted from rich red Mangrove wood, accentuated by a sturdy spruce nightstand beside Niki's bed. In the center of the room lay a plush moss rug, adding a touch of natural comfort to the space. Across from the bed stood a spruce desk and chair, illuminated by a desk lamp tucked into the corner, casting a warm glow over the scattered papers and journals that adorned its surface.
Glow berry vines and delicate hanging roots cascaded from the moss-covered ceiling, adding a whimsical touch to the room. The gentle morning sunlight streamed through the windows, casting warm rays across the soft, silky material of the comforter that enveloped Niki, creating a tranquil atmosphere in the space.
The excruciating pain in her side had diminished to a dull ache, accompanied by a mild headache that was more bothersome than painful. Suddenly, a series of gentle knocks reverberated through the closed door, causing Niki to jolt upright in bed, her eyes widening in alarm. Instinctively, she reached for her hip, only to realize her sword was nowhere to be found. Before she could react, the door swung open, revealing Eret with a wooden bed tray and a warm smile.
"I'm relieved to see you awake, miss! You fainted just before we arrived, which had me a bit concerned. But I've tended to your injuries, so there's no need to worry now," Eret reassures, his two cats bounding into the room and settling at the foot of Niki's bed. "Why 'miss'?" she asks, her voice weary as Eret approaches.
"Well, since you haven't shared your name, I figured 'miss' would do for now," he explains.
Niki eyes him suspiciously before relenting, "You can just call me Nemesis."
"That's an interesting name," Eret remarks with a chuckle.
"Yeah, well, I'm not ready to divulge my real name to someone I don't trust," she retorts, and Eret nods in understanding. "Fair enough."
"Anyway, I've whipped up some breakfast because I'm guessing you're famished," Eret continues, gently placing the tray on Niki's lap. She eyes it warily, shifting her gaze between the food and Eret's cheerful expression. "Let me guess, you've poisoned it so you can get rid of me?" she speculates, but Eret chuckles.
"I can assure you, none of it is poisoned. Believe it or not, some people are just kind," Eret reassures her.
Despite her reluctance, Niki's stomach loudly protests, eventually eliciting a defeated sigh from her. "Fine, whatever. I'll eat," she concedes. With a reluctant hand, she picks up her fork and cuts into the delicious, fluffy pancake, dipping it into the pooled syrup on her plate before taking a bite. An involuntary hum of satisfaction escapes her lips at the delicious taste, and without hesitation, she quickly devours the rest of the pancake.
"Wow, this is... delicious," Niki remarks, looking up at Eret, who has settled into the desk chair across the room. "Why thank you! Baking and cooking are some of my favorite hobbies," they explain warmly, sparking a sudden interest in Niki.
"Baking used to be a hobby of mine too. Well, at least it was," she adds, her voice trailing off as she gazes down at her bandaged hands, memories of her past endeavors lingering. Eret tilts their head curiously. "Why not?" they inquire. Niki ponders for a moment before responding, "I just never seem to find the time anymore." But deep down, she knows it's more than just a lack of time—it's also the overwhelming anger that often consumes her, making it difficult to engage in anything calming.
Eret hums softly, considering. "Well, maybe you'll have the chance to resume your activities once you're feeling better," he suggests, rising to depart. However, Niki's expression twists with confusion. "Hold on, what do you mean? I'm planning to leave today," she points out, perplexed. Eret gazes at her with a mixture of concern and conviction. "Are you serious? While my spells and magic are potent, they have their limits. You really ought to remain here for a few weeks until you're completely healed." Niki's eyes widened in disbelief. "What?!" she exclaims. "But..." She pauses, then protests, "That's not reassuring at all! I don't want to be cooped up here!"
As Niki contemplated her next move, she came to a sobering realization: she didn't have anywhere else to go. Her former friends were no longer an option, and venturing out on her own would likely lead to her being apprehended once more. Perhaps staying put for a few weeks wouldn't be so terrible after all. It could even provide an opportunity to train and strategize for revenge against the members of The Syndicate. The notion of facing them in battle, despite the potential for defeat, suddenly seemed strangely enticing to her.
"Alright, I'll stay until I've recovered," she relents, and Eret nods in acknowledgment. "Good to know. By the way, I've left a set of clean clothes on your nightstand since your old ones were beyond saving. Feel free to get changed whenever you're ready. Just shout if you need anything," Eret says before exiting the room, Goose and Mouse trailing behind him, and closing the door behind them.
Niki glances over at the nightstand, noticing the clothes she hadn't seen before. With a sigh, she throws off the blanket covering her legs and gingerly swings her legs onto the chilly wooden floor.
Examining herself, she realizes she's still in her lacy, silky white sleeping undergarments, a stark contrast to her previously bloodied attire. Carefully standing up and mindful of her side wound, she reaches for the clothes and swiftly dresses. The ensemble consists of pale green shorts adorned with charming mushroom embroidery, sturdy brown leather combat boots, and a pastel rainbow crewneck sweater. Completing the look is a simple yet stylish belt that ties the whole outfit together.
Studying her reflection in the mirror, Niki couldn't help but appreciate the style of the outfit. If these were Eret's clothes, they certainly had good taste. Though she wished the attire made her appear more intimidating than cute, she shrugged it off. She'd make do.
Just as she's about to leave, her gaze falls upon her worn-out, short brown cloak draped over the chair by the desk. Quickly retrieving it, she drapes it over her shoulders, feeling a sense of reassurance. With that, she exits the room.
As she exits the room, she strolls down the hallway and steps into the living room of the hut. What greets her is a scene of cozy simplicity: a stone brick fireplace with a chimney ascending through the roof, casting a warm glow and crackling softly, breaking the quiet of the house. In the center of the room lies a plush mossy green rug, inviting and soft underfoot. Surrounding it are comfortable wooden couches and chairs, their dark green cushions adorned with patches sewn on in various spots, adding a homely touch to the space.
The windows were thrown open, inviting in a breeze that carried with it the sweet symphony of birdsong, frog croaks, and the rhythmic chirping of crickets. The oddly soothing cacophony stirred inexplicable unrest within Niki, though she swiftly quelled it, redirecting her focus toward the source of activity in the kitchen.
Eret casually wiped down the sleek diorite countertops while his two cats, Goose and Mouse, weaved around his legs, purring contentedly. Sensing Niki's arrival, he glanced up with a warm smile. "Don't be shy, feel free to make yourself at home," he reassured her before returning to his task. Niki nodded, a hint of awkwardness in her movements as she settled onto a cushioned couch. Almost instantly, Goose bounded over, claiming her lap with a graceful leap, settling in comfortably as he curled up.
Eret chuckled softly. "Don't mind Goose! They just love attention," he explained, casting a reassuring glance at Niki. She nodded, her fingers gently caressing the fur of the affectionate cat resting in her lap, finding solace in its softness. "It's okay. I'm a cat person too. I used to have one," she replied, a small smile gracing her lips.
Eret acknowledged her words with a nod before returning to his cleaning duties. Niki found herself watching him silently, observing his peculiar yet endearing mannerisms. Despite being a stranger, he had shown her kindness, taking her in, tending to her wounds, and offering her shelter until she was fully recovered. His attentive nature, pausing to listen whenever she spoke, struck her deeply. Apart from her former companions in the Syndicate, he seemed genuinely interested in her thoughts and feelings.
Eret wiped down the counters until they gleamed, tossing the rag into the sink with a flick of his wrist before turning to Niki. "Ready to roll?" he asked, catching Niki off guard with a look of confusion. "What do you mean?" Niki replied.
"Well, if you're itching to get out of here pronto, let's kickstart your recovery process with step one!"
Niki perks up at that and she immediately stands up, only feeling a little bit bad for Goose who jumps off of her lap.
“Okay then. Let’s do it.”
-
"Ugh, this is beyond tedious! What's even the purpose of all this?" Niki groaned, standing amidst the murky swamp that served as Eret's home, meticulously plucking berries from the bushes. Meanwhile, Eret scoured the water's edge, hunting for various plants and weeds. She couldn't fathom how he managed to distinguish between each plant, let alone identify the ones he needed. Perhaps he relied on texture cues, but the intricacies of his method remained a mystery to her.
"Your wound's still on the mend, and we don't want to risk reopening it with any strenuous activity. So, we're just stocking up on some materials I've been running low on," Eret explained calmly, adding another weed to his basket.
"And the berries?"
"Just a little treat I'm planning to bake tonight!"
Niki sighed heavily, her gaze falling to her bandaged side as she gently brushed her hand over it, a stark reminder of her vulnerability that lingered prominently in her mind. Anger simmered within her, evident in the fixed stare she kept on the ground.
"You're only doing this because you think I'm too weak and fragile for anything more," she spat out bitterly, unaware that Eret had halted his tasks, his expression stoic and unreadable as he looked up at her.
"What I believe is that you underestimate yourself and your abilities, which couldn't be further from the truth. I'm not having you pick berries because I think you're weak. It's about giving your body the chance to heal without strain, so we can get you out of here as soon as possible. It's as simple as that," Eret stated matter-of-factly, his words hitting Niki with a mix of shock and confusion.
Her mind wrestled with his words, grappling with the conflicting thoughts, while her body leaned in, soaking up his words like warm rays of sunshine on a cold day. It left her feeling... strange. It echoed the sentiments of her "friends," but hearing them from a stranger, someone unaware of her past and present circumstances felt different. Perhaps because it came without judgment or preconceived notions.
Niki fell silent, finding no further words to add, and returned to her task of gathering berries, filling her basket diligently. As the basket neared its capacity, Eret finally straightened up from his position by the river's edge. He adjusted his basket on his arm and turned to Niki.
"Alright, I reckon we've gathered plenty. Let's head back to the house," he suggested.
Once they arrived home, Niki placed her basket of berries on the counter while Eret positioned his among various bottles, potions, and ingredients in a corner. He then made his way back to the kitchen, clapping his hands together.
"Alright, time to bake a blackberry pie! I've got the recipe right here," he announced, walking over to a recipe book resting on a small wooden stand beside the spice rack.
Curious, Niki tilted her head and couldn't resist asking, "How do you manage to find everything you need, or know which spices to use, if you can't see?" Her inquiry was genuine, wondering how Eret navigated through life without risking harm.
"Well, it's not as simple as I might make it appear, but I've found ways to adapt and learn," Eret explained. "For instance, I've labeled the spice containers with Braille, so now I can feel around and locate the right one when I need it."
Niki nodded in understanding. "But what about following recipes? How do you manage that?"
"I've added Braille annotations to the words and ingredients in the recipe book. And if there's someone else around, I might ask them to read it out to me," Eret replied. "But since you're here, it'll be much easier if you read it out while I assist with the baking!"
Niki shrugged. "Sure, I don't mind."
"Perfect! Let's get started then," Eret exclaimed, eager to begin.
The rest unfolded smoothly as Niki grew more at ease with the baking process. She positioned the book for easy reading and methodically listed each step, collaborating with Eret. While he mostly handled ingredient retrieval, Niki took charge of the assembly, allowing Eret to stir mixtures to keep himself engaged. She suspected he wouldn't have minded taking a more active role, but she wanted to ensure they worked as equals.
Before long, they had assembled the pie and placed it in the oven to bake. Niki fueled the fire by adding chopped firewood to the pit beneath the wood-burning stove and igniting it with Flint & Steel. As the pie began to bake, Eret let out a contented sigh and clapped his hands once more.
"Alright! While that's cooking, let's head to the living room so I can tend to your wound," he suggested, making his way around the counter towards the mossy couch, with Niki following suit.
"But it doesn't hurt, and you've already bandaged it up," Niki pointed out, though it was only partially true. She didn't want to admit that there was a nagging ache and soreness, considering it a sign of weakness. She'd endured worse wounds, so complaining felt unjustified. However, Eret paid little heed to her protests. He gathered a few tools and ingredients, arranging them on the coffee table from his herb pantry.
"It still needs attention. Please, come and sit down," he urged calmly, gesturing to a spot on the couch.
Niki found herself unsure of how to respond, feeling a subtle pressure not to refuse. She reluctantly shifted over and took a seat, with Eret settling beside her, adjusting his position to face her more comfortably. With a sigh, Niki raised her shirt slightly, allowing Eret to carefully unwind her bandages from her waist. As he completed the task, he balled up the used bandages and tossed them into a nearby waste basket, before reaching for the Forest Herbs.
He dropped two of the minty-green herbs into a stone mortar and began to crush them, creating a sticky ball. Pouring a small amount of water from a clay pitcher into the mortar, he continued mashing the herbs. After a few more minutes, he added a dull-red Hagshroom to the mixture, grinding it up alongside the herbs. Throughout the process, Niki watched with a mix of amazement and curiosity.
"You must've spent quite a while studying all of this," Niki remarked, watching Eret work with a mixture of admiration and curiosity.
Eret chuckled in response, nodding. "Indeed, it's been quite the journey. Utilizing natural resources like this isn't simple, but with dedication, it's achievable."
Niki leaned in, intrigued. "But why avoid spells?"
Eret paused his mixing, a solemn expression crossing his face. "All spells come with a price. The stronger the spell, the harsher the consequences. Weaker spells may have minor drawbacks or none at all, but as you delve into more potent magic, the repercussions escalate significantly."
He demonstrated by ceasing his mixing and uttering a quiet incantation before blowing gently into the bowl. It briefly glowed a soft green before the light faded, revealing a gel-like substance with a minty hue.
"This was a simple healing spell, quite common and relatively weak," Eret explained. "The only side effect I experience is mild drowsiness, easily remedied with a good night's sleep."
Niki nodded as she listened to him, processing his words before he dipped his fingers into the mixture. "Just a heads up, it might feel a bit chilly," he warned before gently applying it to her skin, causing a shiver to run down her spine. The texture was peculiar, almost rubbery, reminiscent of raw aloe vera. After Eret finished applying it, he fetched fresh bandages, wrapping them snugly around her waist before neatly securing them in place.
"Okay, all set!" he declared, and Niki adjusted her shirt while Eret cleaned up his supplies in the kitchen. She trailed behind him, contemplating her question before mustering the courage to voice it. "Have you ever regretted casting a spell because of its consequences?" she asked softly. Eret paused, his hands still as he pondered her question in silence. Niki shifted nervously, worried she might have crossed a line, but before she could apologize, Eret responded.
"Yes, actually, just one," Eret confessed, his tone serious. Niki's eyes widened with curiosity. "But what kind of spell could result in you losing your eyesight?" she inquired. Eret turned to her, a solemn smile on his lips. "Let's just say I was desperate to preserve something very important," he explained cryptically.
"...What was it?" Niki asked tentatively, but Eret just smiled gently at her. "It's getting late. You should probably head to bed," he suggested, deflecting her question. Niki nodded understandingly, sensing his reluctance to discuss the matter further. Without another word, she rose from her seat and made her way back to the guest room, closing the door softly behind her.
Leaning against the door, Niki let out a frustrated sigh, running her hands down her face. Why was she so insistent on prying? She shouldn't even care, but Eret's enigmatic nature intrigued her. She couldn't shake the desire to uncover his secrets. Yet, she realized she should have respected his privacy. Whatever had happened must have been painful, and she didn't want to add to his burden of memories.
Niki berated herself internally; she knew better than to pry into painful memories. She feared she might have driven away one of the few people who hadn't turned against her. An uneasy feeling settled in her stomach as she anticipated being asked to leave the house that night.
But for the moment, all Niki could do was crawl into bed, close her eyes, and hope for dreamless sleep to ease her troubled mind.
-
The following morning, Niki felt a wave of nervousness as she contemplated stepping out of the guest room. She had meticulously dressed, brushed her hair, and prepared herself for the day ahead. However, apprehension gnawed at her, hesitant to face Eret after her persistent prodding the previous day. She couldn't shake the feeling that she had made him uncomfortable with her relentless questioning, and now worried that he might resent her presence in his home.
However, she couldn’t stay holed up in her room forever. Summoning all her courage, she eventually ventured out into the hallway, inching her way toward the main area. As she turned the corner, she peeked into the kitchen and saw Eret already up, cooking breakfast on the stove, with Goose and Mouse happily rubbing and purring around his legs.
“Morning, Niki. Breakfast's almost ready, so pick your spot,” Eret chimed in, his tone surprisingly casual, catching Niki off guard. It was as if nothing had happened the night before, and he was back to his usual self, which unsettled her a bit. Nevertheless, Niki just nodded and settled onto one of the wooden stools by the counter. Mouse then hopped onto the counter, strolling over to Niki, meowing and seeking affection.
Niki couldn’t help but crack a smile as she reached her hand out and began to gently pet Mouse’s head, scratching behind its ears and causing him to purr and lean into it happily. "I... I'm sorry," Niki blurted out, her words tumbling out faster than her thoughts could catch up. Once she started, she couldn't seem to stop. "I apologize for... um, pushing you yesterday. I should've known better. And if you want me to leave, to never come back, I understand." She spoke quietly, her gaze fixed on Mouse, avoiding eye contact with Eret, who remained by the stove.
"Apology accepted," Eret responded promptly, surprising Niki. "What...? But... you're not upset?" she asked, as Eret turned towards her, carrying two plates of food and wearing his usual smile. "Of course not. I haven't had many conversations lately, but whenever I do, people tend to be curious about how I lost my sight," he explained, placing the plates on the table.
“And trust me, you were the nicest one when asking about it so don’t worry about it.” Eret adds as he sits down across from Niki before digging right into his food.
Niki found herself grappling with a surge of emotions, foremost among them anger. Yet, it wasn't directed solely at Eret; rather, it simmered within her, aimed inward. She couldn't help but feel a sense of self-reproach for the predicament. Why wasn't he lashing out at her? He had every right to, considering her insensitivity. Instead, he seemed to brush it off, which only fueled her frustration. It felt like a monumental issue that shouldn't be dismissed so lightly.
Suddenly, Eret's voice broke through her thoughts, pulling her attention back to the present. He noticed her intense glare at her food, her hands clenched tightly on the table's edge. With an effort, Niki relaxed her grip and forced herself to appear composed, despite the lingering anger. "Are you okay?" His concern was evident. "Yes, I'm fine," she replied, her tone softer now, devoid of its previous sharpness. "Thank you for... forgiving me." She focused on her meal, determined not to let her temper get the best of her and say something she'd regret.
After a moment of silent reflection, Eret resumed his meal, and the tranquility of the surroundings enveloped them as they ate. Mouse and Goose, faithful companions, lingered beneath the table, hopeful for any fallen crumbs. But as they finished, Eret broke the silence once more.
"Alright, well, I think you’re ready for the next step in the recovery process," he announced, drawing Niki's attention with renewed interest.
Niki's spirits lifted at the prospect. "Really? What's next?" she inquired eagerly, her curiosity piqued.
A smile tugged at Eret's lips at her enthusiasm. "We're diving into physical therapy, starting with reacquainting you with wielding a sword," he revealed.
Niki's excitement was palpable as she sprung from her seat. "When do we start?" she exclaimed, her eagerness shining through.
Chuckling at her enthusiasm, Eret replied, "Once I've tidied up these breakfast dishes. If you lend a hand, we'll finish in no time." He offered, and Niki readily agreed, eager to hasten the process so she could pursue those who had wronged her.
Together, they swiftly tackled the pile of dirty dishes, efficiently stowing them away. Afterward, Eret retrieved a pair of wooden training swords from his hallway closet, and they ventured outside. Their path led to a marshy clearing—an islet connected to the mainland by a bridge, surrounded by murky swamp water. Mouse and Goose trailed closely behind Eret as they made their way to the open space.
"This here is what I call my training grounds. Haven't used it in a while," Eret remarked, gesturing around. He then turned to Niki, offering one of the swords. She accepted it, testing its weight with a few swings. It was rough-hewn and intended more for practice than actual combat—perfect for their purposes.
"Okay, let's start easy, focusing on reviewing the basic forms and attacks for sword fighting to get a feel for the sword again," Eret suggested. Despite the simplicity of the task, Niki nodded, beginning to swing her sword. After just a few seconds, however, she felt a sharp pain in her wrist and let out a small yelp, dropping the sword and clutching her wrist with her other hand.
"What's going on?" she wondered aloud as Eret retrieved her sword. "That's exactly why we're taking it easy," he reassured her. "Your wrist is fine, but it's still a bit sore from whatever happened to it before I healed it. The more you swing, the less it'll hurt, and it'll start to fade away."
"Ugh, this is ridiculous," Niki grumbled, resuming her sword swings despite the discomfort in her wrist. Gradually, as Eret had promised, the pain began to subside. "See? I told you," she remarked, relieved. "Now, let's move on to practicing on a test dummy."
With a snap of his fingers, Eret conjured a simple, ragged training dummy from a puff of smoke. It emerged from the ground, adorned with a large red target symbol on its front.
"Whoa. That caught me off guard," Niki muttered, attempting to swing at the dummy experimentally. She watched slivers of wood splinter off before launching into a relentless assault, getting back into the rhythm of it. "Take it easy, don't overdo it," Eret cautioned lightly. Still, Niki only offered a slight nod, barely acknowledging his warning as she fell into a familiar rhythm, finding a sense of calm in the repetitive motion.
As Niki continued, the test dummy seemed to blur, her anger mounting as she envisioned the other Syndicate members—the ones who never came for her, never tried to save her. Instead, they opted for cowardice, hiding away. The more she dwelled on it, the more her swings intensified, growing harsher and more violent. She began to splinter through the wooden stake holding up the dummy, repeatedly slashing at the red target on its front.
Her breathing picks up and she loses herself in her rage. All other outside sounds were drowned out and she barely even registered a hand being placed on her shoulder.
“Niki!”
A loud, deep voice shattered Niki's hazy fog of rage, causing her to cease her assault. Her whole body froze, eyes wide with alarm as she found herself breathing heavily and trembling like a leaf. Gradually, the rest of the world seeped back into her consciousness. She could hear the croaks of frogs and toads, the chirping of birds in the trees, and the gentle splashes of water from fish. The cool, soothing breeze seemed to calm her body and temper her anger just enough to realize that Eret stood off to the side, not directly in front of her, his hand resting gently on her shoulder, his expression a mix of shock and concern.
Taking stock of the test dummy's near-destruction, Niki noticed its mess on the ground below. "Are you okay?" Eret asked hesitantly and softly, withdrawing his hand from her shoulder. She turned sharply toward him, her anger flaring up again. "Does it look like I'm okay?!" she snapped harshly, catching Eret off guard. He didn't flinch, simply standing there and listening as she continued.
"I'm not okay! Do you want to know the real reason I'm stuck out here? Because I'm an anarchist! A highly wanted one! Yet when I got captured, my so-called friends never even tried to bust me out! They didn't lift a finger to stop my execution! They made me believe they cared, and made me feel like I belonged somewhere! But they left me for dead!" Niki's voice cracked with anger and hurt, tears welling in her eyes.
Eret stared at her, his expression blank with a hint of something she couldn't decipher, fueling her anger further. "And then there's you! You didn't even know who I was, yet you took me in! You don't flinch or seem scared when I tell you I'm a wanted criminal! I'm not used to that, and it just... makes me so angry!"
Following her outburst, the swamp fell into an eerie silence. Not even the creatures dared to disrupt the stillness. Goose and Mouse remained frozen in fear and shock. Yet, true to form, Eret was the one to shatter the quietness as he approached her slowly.
"Can I hug you?" he asked softly, arms open in invitation.
Still trembling, Niki leaned into Eret's embrace, feeling the warmth of his arms enveloping her. But she didn't cry, because that's not something she did. Instead, she screamed. Every ounce of frustration and emotion she couldn't process, buried deep within her, erupted into a muffled scream against Eret's shoulder. Yet, he remained unmoving, and nonjudgmental, allowing her to release it all.
Eret gently lowered them to the ground, settling onto the swamp floor as Niki gradually calmed, her breath evening out. It was only when the tension had dissipated that Eret spoke. "I'm sure it's not what it seems. I believe your friends care about you."
Niki closes her eyes and lets out a sigh. She wants to trust him but can't shake off the lingering anger.
"I have to do this, Eret. It's the only way I can begin to heal," she says quietly, her resolve showing briefly on her face. Eret stays silent, his disappointment showing subtly as they remain in a hug.
"Let's call it a day and head back," Eret suggests.
-
After they got back to the hut Niki immediately went to her temporary bedroom and curled up on the bed. Her emotions were running high and going all over the place she didn’t even know what to think anymore! She felt so conflicted as her rational thoughts and overwhelming anger fought for dominance in her brain.
One part of her knew that deep down, getting her revenge would not give her the peace of mind she needed, and she’d probably die in the process. But the other part of her was screaming and begging her to kill all of those who betrayed her.
But did they betray her?
What if they were out there still looking for her? What if they didn’t even know she was about to be executed? That would change things.
But even if she knew that was the most likely option deep down, her anger and betrayal were stronger than that and clouded her judgment.
Once she became more aware of her surroundings, she noticed that the house sounded oddly quiet. She couldn’t hear Eret walking around or humming to herself while he did whatever task. She got up from the bed, walked out of the guest bedroom, and down the hall, looking around the small hut for any sign of Eret, but there was none.
She started to get a little worried until she noticed a note left on the kitchen table. She picked it up and it read, “The cats and I have gone to forage for some more supplies. We’ll be back around sundown and in time for dinner. Signed, Eret.” At least they were okay.
Niki sighs, sets the note back down, and looks around the quiet house. She wonders if Eret made an excuse because he was embarrassed by her outburst. It doesn’t seem like something he’d do but still.
Looking through the kitchen fridge and pantry, she noticed there wasn't much food left. Without any specific reason, she felt the urge to go into town to buy some food and cook a meal for when Eret returned. He had been kind and patient with her, and she felt it was the least she could do to show her gratitude before she left. Gathering her spare change, she put on her cloak, pulled the hood over her head, and headed out the door towards the nearby village.
She wasn’t too thrilled to return to the village that had nearly executed her. Nevertheless, she decided to take the risk and quickly go in to buy some ingredients and leave.
-
Niki adjusts the brown bags in her arms as she starts heading back to the swamp to Eret's hut, having gotten everything they needed. However, as she starts heading towards the gates of the city, she hears an oddly familiar voice. "Are you sure she's been through here?"
Niki comes to a halting stop as her eyes widen and her heart begins to beat louder, the blood roaring in her ears blocking out all other noises except these voices in the distance. She turns around and her eyes scan the crowd, focusing on a familiar white and green striped bucket hat. "There had been reports of her here. She can't be much farther." Technoblade says to the other two as they all look around. Niki was frozen, unsure of what she should do. Her body and mind were at war with each other, giving her conflicting demands.
Did she make a run for it back to the hut? Not let them see her? Or does she face them head-on, demanding them answers?
In the end, her anger and hurt feelings won, and she seemed to not care as the groceries she had bought dropped to the floor and she started running through the crowd, pushing people out of the way and weaving between, ignoring the shouts of surprise and annoyance as she does so. The commotion grabs the attention of the trio and they look over, their faces lighting up once they see Niki. For some reason, that made her even more angry seeing them pretend.
"Niki! Oh, my gods, we've been looking everywhere for you!" Phil says but all of their expressions suddenly shift to one of confusion and concern as she unsheaths her sword and swings it at all of them, causing them all to dodge out of the way. "Woah, Niki! What are you doing??" Ranboo asks but Niki just keeps swinging, her reasoning and vision seeing nothing but red as she swings at Ranboo, forcing the young teen to pull out his sword and start blocking her blows. His worried and concerned expression did nothing but fuel her rage for whatever reason.
"Niki, stop!" Phil shouts, directing her attention away from Ranboo and towards him. This forces Phil to pull out his sword to block her attacks. "Niki, what's going on with you?" he asks, but she still doesn't seem to hear him. "You guys betrayed me!!" Niki shouts as she keeps swinging. "What are you talking about? We've been looking everywhere for you! We've been worried," Phil replies. Niki sweeps his feet out from underneath him, causing him to fall. As Niki raises her sword and swings down towards him, suddenly Technoblade steps in between them and blocks Niki's sword with his own, causing her arms to shake from the force of pushing back against his blade.
"He pushes his sword forward, causing her to stumble back before she quickly regains her footing and guards her openings, glaring over at the pink-haired man. Despite his protective stance, there were still hints of concern that Niki was currently blind to. "You tricked me! You had Ranboo pretend he forgot his journal back at the hotel and let me get surrounded by guards while you guys escaped!" Niki shouts, but they all just look confused. "You've got it wrong, mate! That's not what happened! By the time we had gotten far away from the village, Ranboo realized he had it the whole time in his bag. And by the time we got back to the village, you were gone!" Phil explains.
Tears prick in Niki's eyes as she just continues to attack and get into a scuffle with Technoblade. Niki kept being fueled by her anger and betrayal, which allowed her to gain the upper hand against Technoblade. It also helped the man wasn't trying as hard to try and not hurt her. His feet are swept out from under him causing him to fall. She raises her sword again and brings it down on him, but he blocks it, trying to push back against her so he can get up. But as they're in a hold with their swords grinding against each other, a voice breaks through Niki's clouded reasoning.
"Niki!"
She turns around and sees Eret running towards the group, his two cats in tow. Being caught off guard by Eret allows Technoblade to push Niki back, stand up, and then rip her sword from her hands and slide it on the ground away from her to Phil, who takes it so that she can't get it back.
Now without the familiar feeling of a weapon in her hand and looked around at her friends who all stared at her with what she could only assume were pitying worried expressions she fell to her knees into some sort of bowing position before crying. Wave after wave of guilt and shame barrel through her as she realizes she messed up. She messed up the only relationships she had, over a simple misunderstanding. She knew that if they didn't abandon her then, they certainly would do it now after how she behaved.
"I-I'm sorry! I... I didn't... I'm sorry... I'm a horrible person!" She says between her sobs and gasps, never once lifting her head from the ground, too embarrassed and ashamed to face some of the only people who ever showed her affection and appreciation. "Niki, it was just a misunderstanding," Phil says in a gentle voice but Niki just shakes her head. "Yeah, and I almost killed you guys for it! That's not... that's not good..." She replies, still keeping her head down.
That's when she feels a hand on her shoulder, causing her to jump and shoot her head up to be met with Technoblade's stoic expression, although it shows a hint of concern for her. "Niki, people make mistakes all the time. And sometimes emotion can take over rationality even if it's against someone's morals." He begins. "What I'm trying to say is that you don't need to apologize. We're all here for you now. Me, Phil, Ranboo, and.... uh, whoever this guy is." He says gesturing to Eret who just smiles.
"You're not alone."
Technoblade isn't one for long speeches but that short little monologue was enough for Niki as she falls into Technoblade's arms and an embrace, still crying into his shoulder before she's joined by Phil and Ranboo. She didn't think she deserved this. There were even a couple of lingering thoughts that she should've just taken the bullet and let herself be executed.
But being surrounded by everyone who cares about her, genuinely cares, she could hardly deny it anymore.
She finally had a family.