Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Chapter 1 – Little Junebug

John Dory paused at the front entrance of the pod and glanced back at his younger twin brothers. “You guys sure you’ll be ok? I know it’s Trollstice tomorrow, I can stay if you want.”

His brothers shook their heads and gave him identical grins. It reminded him of their mothers smile, muses rest her soul.

“We'll be fine JD. Honest.” Reg said first, hands on hips. “We're adults now you know? Besides, you promised to help out with the orphan trollings.”

“Yeah.” Lupin nodded as he nudged up his glasses beside his twin. “Those poor kids, everyone knows its horrible experiencing your first Trollstice. We'll be fine big brother.”

John Dory smiled softly and held out his arms. “One last hug before I go?”

The twins rolled their eyes, but walked over to embrace their older brother without hesitation.

After a few seconds of hugging his brothers tightly, John let go and reached over to ruffled the twins lavender hair. “Alright guys, see you tomorrow morning. I’ll be back before the Bergens start. Promise.”

“We know JD.” Reg grinned.

“We’ll be waiting, silently.” Lupin nodded with a serious expression as he pressed his fingers together.

Rule number one that all trolls learned since they were trollings. Don’t make a sound during Trollstice.

“Good. See you guys later.” John Dory smiled softly before stepping out of their pod, and using his hair to swing himself up to the higher branches.

The orphanage, a pod where all children whose parents and family members were eaten lived. It was built up high in the tree, to discourage the Bergen from reaching it.

It was the only way the trolls could think of to try and protect the children. So far it worked.

So far.

With a final swing, John Dory flipped up high and landed on the branch before stumbling slightly. He managed to catch himself and let out a breath, before walking over to the pod.

Already, he could hear the little ones playing inside.

“Ah, John Dory. You’re early.” Miss Bayleaf smiled, the matron and guardian of the orphanage. “The children will be delighted, they so enjoyed your stay last time. I really appreciate your help.”

“No problem Miss Bayleaf.” John smiled politely. “I enjoy helping out, the trollings are such a delight. Considering... you know...”

His smile faded.

Miss Bayleaf lowered her head. “Indeed, that time of the year is upon us once again. The king fears that more of us will be eaten this year, considering how fast the Bergen population is growing.”

John Dory nodded before glancing towards the window, getting a good view of Bergen Town below. Even from here, he could see more homes being built.

They were even working on expanding and building the castle on the hill, which seemed a third of the way done, as cobbled streets were being laid.

What was once a simple village, was fast developing into a town.

He shivered and pulled his gaze away, it didn’t do for a troll to dwell on that for too long.

“Alright Miss Bayleaf, we have some children to entertain. I have a few more stories to read to them.” He reached into his hair and pulled out some brightly coloured books.

“Indeed. John Dory.” Miss Bayleaf smiled brightly.

Then together they headed into the next room, where the children went into a frenzy upon seeing John and the books in his hands.

As night fell, John Dory was lost in his own thoughts as he tidied up the pod. The children were now in bed and being checked over by the matron.

He couldn’t help wondering just how many of them were going to be picked like ingredients this year, killed, and fed to the celebrating Bergens right in front of the caged Troll Tree.

John could still remember when Prince Thistle... no, King Thistle’s younger sister was taken, and eaten alive by the Bergen Prince.

She never got the chance to meet her nephew, Prince Peppy who hatched days after the event.

Thud

John Dory froze as the toys he’s just finished putting away on the shelf jolted and tumbled to the floor.

Thud

Miss Bayleaf came racing out of the children’s bedroom, eyes wide with petrified terror. “It’s them!”

John Dory sucked in a sharp breath and raced for the exit, ignoring Miss Bayleaf’s calls for him to come back.

Thud

He raced out onto the branch and used to his hair to swing himself down to the lower branches.

Down below, several Bergens were walking around, plucking pods out of the tree.

“Hurry up! Hurry up!” shouted a Bergen in a chefs hat, clearly the royal cook. “We need plenty of trolls for tomorrow’s Trollstice, it has to be extra special!”

Thud

They were collecting trolls early? No! No no no!

He has to get home! He promised to be there!

John Dory hissed and swung himself down further, terror stabbing at his heart as the Bergens began to leave.

Thud

He arrived on their branch and turned, before crying out in anguish upon seeing their pod missing. His brothers were gone.

Reg and Lupin... his dear twin brothers, he’ll never see them again. He’ll never be able to keep his promise...

He failed.

John Dory sobbed and fell to his knees. Why couldn’t he be taken too? They needed to be together!

He was too late. He failed.

The world went dull and grey, as John Dory slowly stood up, and began to make his way to the bars of the cage with an emotionless expression.

Without his brothers, there was no point being here anymore. Life just seemed meaningless now... the colour and hope gone.

John Dory finished writing the last line of lyrics, and nodded in satisfaction as he quickly read through the new song.

With a few corrections and last minute added notes, he closed his notebook and placed down his pen,  before leaning back to stretch his back with a satisfying pop.

Today was another hot sunny day in Lonesome Flats, so the older troll was happy to finally be done with Kismet’s new latest song.

 Now he can start preparing for his trip to Bergen Town with Maria Dixie.

He chuckled, remembering the large invitation sent to him from King Gristle and Queen Bridget. The letter was as big as he was, and it about a huge party to celebrate the birth of Prince Marrow.

To think, trolls like him would be invited to a royal Bergen baby celebration... what would his Grandma think if she was still alive?

John Dory chuckled as he tried to imagine her reaction, before getting up from his desk.

After pulling on his prosthetic arm and grabbing his goggles, he headed out of the bedroom and into the main area.

There at the table, sat his two year old daughter in her blue party dress, looking deep in concentration as she drew on a piece of white card. Colourful glittery crayons, an old birthday present from Aunt Poppy and Uncle Branch lay scattered her.

John smiled softly and walked over, raising his left hand to glide his fingers through her puffy teal hair while being careful not to catch the blue ribbon in a bow. “Hey Pixie. Working hard I see.”

He glanced at the drawing, seeing two green potato with legs and arms, and wearing little yellow crowns. Between the two figures was an even smaller green potato.

Maria Dixie looked up and beamed. “I drew Gristle and Bridget with their new baby! It’s a present!”

Ah, so that’s who the green potatoes were.

“Oh wow! That’s amazing! They’re going to love it, especially from an adorable little artist like you.” John Dory grinned as he sat down on a chair next to her. “So that’s two presents you made them huh?”

For the last few weeks, they had created a song together to sing as a gift for the new royal baby, which had been Maria Dixie’s idea.

John Dory couldn’t help but be extremely proud of his daughter, who clearly has a potential talent for song writing.

She giggled and finished off the drawing, before standing up on her chair while holding out her drawing with a flourish. “Done! I’m ready to go now.”

“Oh, are you now?” John chuckled as he reached over to brush down her beautiful blue dress. “Then you better say goodbye to your mom, while I finish getting ready.”

Maria Dixie nodded before turning to hop off her chair, then raced down the stairs as fast as her little legs could carry her.

John Dory grinned and began to pack away the crayons, before getting up from the table. He was looking forward to seeing his brothers and friends again, including his adorable little niece Juniper who had just turned one last month.

Pale blue skin and cobalt blue hair like her father Branch, and with pink eyes and facial features like her mother Poppy. The trolling also inherited her mother’s energetic energy and love for all things, and absolutely loved her big cousin MD who was so gentle with her.

His daughter understood that she was much stronger than her baby cousin Juniper, and that she couldn’t play with her like she could with the Country trollings and Spruce’s children.

After packing everything they’ll need, John Dory headed outside the Sheriff’s Office. On the porch stood Delta Dawn, hugging their daughter close and peppering her little face with kisses.

“You be good for your father my little starlight. I’ll see you again next month. Make sure to take plenty of pictures and videos for me, ya hear?” Delta Dawn said with a bright smile as she nuzzled their foreheads together.

“Ok Momma. I will.” Maria Dixie beamed brightly, as she raised her hands to squish her mother’s cheeks together. “Love you!”

Delta Dawn laughed. “I love you too starlight.”

John Dory chuckled as he walked over and wrapped his arm around his wife, before pulling her into a kiss. “Take care of yourself Sunset.”

“You too Dory Darlin.” Delta Dawn said softly before handing over Maria Dixie, who quickly scrambled over her fathers shoulders and into his hair.

“See you next month, try not to cause any trouble while I’m gone.” John laughed as he hopped off the porch and began to make his way to Rhonda.

Delta Dawn smirked and shook her head. “Trouble normally follows you. Say howdy to the others for me, and behave!”

He laughed and waved his hand at his wife, as Maria Dixie poked her head out and waved as well.

As they walked, the locals of Lonesome Flats waved merrily at him.

“See you next month Mr Dory!”

“Growl Growly!”

“Bye Dory! Bye Maria Dixie, have fun!”

John Dory and his daughter waved back, before reaching the shelter while Rhonda lay waiting.

The huge Armadillo Bus was pretty excited, and let out a warbling cry as they finally climbed aboard and hit the road leading out of Lonesome Flats.

“Alright Pixie, it’s going to be cold in Bergen Town.” John Dory chuckled as he put Rhonda on autopilot, not that he needed to really. His special girl was pretty smart. “So, I bought your jumper that Auntie Viva got for you, and your scarf and earmuffs.”

They were lucky that Lonesome Flats was hot year-round, and John was pretty much use to the heat by now. Considering it was nearly winter, he knew as soon they leave, the temperature drop was going to hit them hard.

Maria Dixie nodded before bouncing, clearly full of energy as she reached into her hair for a small banjo, which her Aunt Bloom gave her for her second birthday. “Ok daddy, I will. Can we sing Candy girl, please? I want to practice so I can show my uncles how good I’m getting!”

John Dory laughed. It was amazing how much his two-year-old acted so much like Branch when he was two. “Alright, let’s do it.”

He stood up and stood by Maria Dixie as she began to strum the strings of her banjo, playing the tune to the song.

It always amazed John Dory just how fast his daughter picked things up, like a sponge. His girl was going to grow up to be something special, he just had a feeling.

Not to mention how amusing it was that his daughter was such a huge Brozone and Kismet fan already, just like her aunt Popstar.

“My girl’s like candy, a candy treat...

She knocks me right up off my feet!

She’s so fine, as can be...

It’s like a perfect harmony!”

Father and Daughter spun around together as they sang, and even Rhonda joined in by giving a happy warble now and then.

“Candy girl, you are my world!

You look so sweet...

Come back to me!

All I know, when I’m with you...

You got the right stuff, baby!”

They danced around each other, singing in harmony as their hearts soared from the joy and happiness.

Music and singing were a funny thing, John Dory didn’t know anything else that could bring people together and create such a positive and happy vibe.

It may have destroyed their family before, but now it bought them back together, stronger then ever before.

Harmony, what could be more powerful than that?

“Alright, you take the left side, I’ll take the right.” Branch whispered to Cooper as they both entered the bedroom.

“On it bro.” His baby brother whispered with a smirk, and gave a nod before moving to the left.

Branch grinned as he began to walk around the right side of the room.

“Oh... I guess she’s not here.” He said loudly, trying not to laugh. “Guess that means I get to eat all of mommy's cookies, that are in the kitchen... unguarded.”

Silence... then a giggle followed by something shooting from underneath Branch and Poppy’s bed towards the door.

Cooper lunged and missed, but Branch managed to scoop up his one-year-old daughter with a cry of triumph. “Got you Junnie!”

Juniper giggled and kicked out with her little feet, wearing an adorable green dress with matching green hair band. “Daddy no! Want cookies!”

“Fiiiiiine!” Branch sighed dramatically before grinning at Cooper. “Coops, catch!”

He tossed Juniper who squealed with delight, before being caught by her uncle who quickly proceeded to race out of the room. “Let’s eat all the cookies before daddy gets one!”

“Hey! No fair! I want a cookie!” Branch said dramatically as he began to give chase, clearly having fun playing with his daughter and his little brother.

He never thought his life could get any brighter, until Juniper came into his life. Never thought he could love someone as much as he loved his daughter, and it made him relate all that more to his older brother John Dory.

Especially since their children were only a year apart in age.

As they raced into the kitchen, his wife Poppy was waiting with a bright smile, all dressed up ready for the party in Bergen Town. Floyd, Clay and Viva were here too, sitting at the table while munching on cookies and chatting away.

“Incoming!” Cooper cheered as he ran to Poppy who swiftly scooped up Juniper from his back with a laugh.

“There’s my little Junebug!”

“Cookie!” Juniper exclaimed and made grabbing motions with her hands towards the bowl of cookies. Viva instantly jumped up and held out a cookie for her niece with a bright smile.

Branch grinned as he walked over and ruffled his daughter’s hair. “She was hiding under our bed this time, little tyke has been learning to hide too well from her cousin Maria Dixie.”

“MD here?” Juniper looked around with hopeful bright eyes, her mouth covered in crumbs.

Floyd chuckled and turned around in his seat. “Soon Junnie, knowing JD, he probably left early.”

Branch nodded with a wide excited grin and caught a cookie mid-air that Cooper tossed to him from the bowl. “Not surprising, since the party falls nearly the same time he tends to come here for the month. I miss my big old dork of a brother.”

“Awww sweetie. I miss him too.” Poppy chuckled as she balanced Juniper on her hip, as the trolling munch away happily on her cookie.

“Bruce and his family should already be at Bergen Town.” Clay grinned as he relaxed with his arm around Viva who was reaching for another cookie from the now nearly empty bowl. “Can’t believe he went and bought a home there. Smart investment if you ask me.”

Branch smirked before glancing out of the window. It was crazy to think that two years have already gone by since the reunion of his brothers. So much had changed… like their pod, which had to be expanded once Poppy moved in. JD still had his room here, since he partially still lived here.

It was a strange arrangement his older brother had, but one he welcomed with open arms.

He glanced at his wife and noticed she was staring out the window too, a strange and almost worried expression on her face. It was a look he was getting used to, a look his wife, John Dory and King Darnell always had a few weeks after attending the Troll Kingdom summit meetings.

Something was going on, and Branch knew he’ll soon find out what it was, now that he’s qualified to attend the next summit, due to being married to the Queen of Pop for a year.

Clay glanced over at Poppy with that strange expression of his, then glanced at Branch. It was clear his neon green haired brother was aware that something was going on too, not surprising considering how smart he was.

Just then, everyone’s ears perked up at the sound of a loud warbling cry.

Juniper froze in her mothers’ arms, before gasping and squirming to get free. “MD!”

“Want to go greet your uncle and cousin first Junnie?” Branch grinned and held out his hands. Poppy laughed, and handed over their daughter who was practically vibrating and bouncing with excitement.

“I think that’s a yes.” She giggled, her eyes shining brightly.

Branch held the trolling on his hip and walked over to the front entrance, then squatted down and placed Juniper on her feet in front of him as the others crowded behind him eagerly.

Seconds later, John Dory appeared as he used his hair to fling himself inside the pod. Maria Dixie was in his arms, who was cheering and clapping her hands.

“MD!” Juniper yelled happily and began to toddle forwards with her hands outstretched. Maria Dixie glanced over and beamed, before jumping down from her father’s arms to rushed over, wrapping her arms carefully around her cousin.

“Jun-Jun! I missed you!” She giggled before picking up Juniper and swinging her around as they both laughing loudly.

Branch smiled softly at the sight, before walking over to slap hands with his oldest brother, then pulled him into a tight hug. “About time old man.”

“Ay! Cheeky brat, I keep telling you I’m in my prime here.” John Dory laughed before stumbling as Cooper bumped into him with a laugh.

Floyd walked over, not wanting to be left out as he threw his arms around his older brother for a tight hug.

John grinned and hugged him back. “Hey Flo-Flo, missed you too, and Beansprout.” He looked up at Clay and held out his left arm.

Clay rolled his eyes but walked over to join the hug.

“MD, play!” Juniper said excitedly as she began to pull Maria Dixie towards their shared bedroom.

“Don’t take too long sweetie, we’ll be leaving soon.” Poppy called out, smiling widely, before walking over to greet John Dory.

He hugged her back after Floyd and Clay stepped to the side. “Hey Popstar, hope Bitty B’s been behaving for you.” He chuckled.

“Of course, I have him trained well.” She glanced over her shoulder and winked at her husband who simply rolled his eyes with a smirk.

They all started chatting about the upcoming party, and discussing about the new Bergen prince when a laugh caught their attention.

Maria Dixie was running back while holding Junipers hand. “Look what I found!”

Branch froze when he saw his niece, who was now wearing the leafy green vest given to him so long ago by Floyd.

It hung down on her body as she clutched her jumper in one hand, just like it did with him.

Floyd had frozen too, eyes widening in shock and disbelief. “W-Where did you find that?”

“Juniper went under Uncle Branch’s bed to get her toy.” Maria Dixie pointed to the stuffed sparkly pink butterfly clutched in her cousins hand. “I went underneath too and saw the vest in a box. It’s sooo cool! Can I have it Uncle Branch? Please?”

She pulled her puppy dog eyes, as her bottom lip wobble.

It worked as Branch sighed, before smirking at Floyd who looked close to tears. “Sure, if Uncle Floyd says its ok.”

“Of course it’s ok.” Floyd squatted down and held out his arms for Maria Dixie, who gasped with delight and went over to him. “It suits you really well.”

John Dory smiled softy as he watched his pink haired brother hug his daughter tightly, wondering if the little trolling realised just how much she had made her uncle happy.

Jaz walked slightly behind her brother Chaz as they left the elevator, walking along a brightly lit corridor with marble flooring and white panelled walls adorned with countless photos of famous bands and singers.

When they reached the large double golden doors, Chaz turned around to face his sister. “Just try to stay calm and let me do all the talking ok?”

“S-Sure.” Jaz instantly nodded, having no objection to this.

“Good. Hopefully by the end of this, we get our payment and leave.” Chaz grumbled slightly before stroking his chest hairs, then straighten up and reached out to knock three times.

There was silence, before the double doors opened up to reveal a lavished and rather modern looking office room.

An elderly troll looked up from his desk and grinned. “Ah, about time you two came. Now Chaz, you know how much I hate to wait.”

“Sorry Boss.” Chaz bowed his head slightly as he and Jaz walked forwards, soon stopping in front of the desk.

“Never mind, you’re here now. I’m afraid there’s been a bit of a... issue. No biggie. Really. I’m hoping to have it resolved before it starts causing issues with my plan to extract my eldest son.”

Chaz looked up. “Are we finally going ahead then? It’s been a whole year boss, I mean no disrespect.”

“Please, call me Elton.” Elton grinned as he laced his fingers together. “I know I know... a whole year is terribly long isn’t it? But I paid you well have I not? I digress, the wait is coming to an end, but that is not why I called you here.”

Elton looked towards Jaz and stared, his grin widening as the jazz troll whimpered slightly and hid more behind her brother. “I have a special job for Jaz, and I’m willing to pay double the standard rate.”

“D-Double!” Chaz gasped before swiftly grabbing Jaz and pulling her forward with a glare, as if silently saying don’t mess this up.

“Indeed. Her friend has gone missing, and I have a strange feeling that girl has gone to Pop Village. I want Jaz to go find her, and keep her safe until she’s ready to come home.” Elton beamed.

Chaz and Jaz glanced at each other in confusion at the odd job.

“You... want Jaz to just stay with her? That’s all?” The older Jazz troll asked with a raised eyebrow.

Their boss nodded as he began to shuffle through some paperwork. “That’s what I said isn’t it? I want you to stay with me as we finally finalise the plan. She sees Jazz as her older sister, no doubt the girl will prefer your sister over anyone else I send. Are you seriously considering turning down the job?”

There was a dangerous tone to his cheerful voice now, making both Chaz and Jaz wince and step back with sudden fear.

“No... no. She’ll take the job. Of course she would boss.” Chaz grinned nervously, as his sister looked down with a worried expression.

“Good.” Elton gave a sly smile. “Well go on then Jaz, there’s a good girl. Get out there and make some friends while you’re at it, I'm counting on you.”

Jaz slowly looked up and shivered at the way the older troll was watching her, like a predator studying its prey to work out the best method of attack.

With a scared expression at Chaz, she turned and practically ran out of the room. Why would Elton want her to do such a simple job, and pay them highly for it.

Something was wrong, but she didn’t know what, and her fear for her friends safety grew immensely.

Chapter Text

Chapter 2 – Prince Marrow

After arriving in Bergen Town for the royal baby celebration, the trolls were amazed to see how bright and colourful the place was.

In fact, John Dory couldn’t help notice it was very similar to how the now tidy well kept town was decorated during the royal bergen wedding two years ago.

Two years ago... how time flies.

Food stalls were set up along the streets, and music was playing as a few Bergen’s danced along. Quite a few trolls were here too, joining in with the celebrations.

Once trust was fully gained between the two species, a few troll families actually moved here to live in the Troll Tree once more. Just the sight of the bright colourful pods hanging from the ancestral branches bought both a kind of nostalgia and bittersweet feeling to John, and to his brothers too judging by the looks on their faces.

Rhonda pulled up outside one of the homes on the outskirts of Bergen Town, and warbled happily as her side door opened up to allow her passengers to disembark.

Maria Dixie hopped out first, her hands hoisting up the leafy vest she wore so it didn’t drag on the floor.

Floyd followed close behind, all happy smiles as his eyes glanced often towards the trolling with adoration.

John Dory grinned at Branch who was holding Juniper, before rummaging around in a cupboard. “Just give me a sec guys, I’ll be with you soon.”

“Gearing up for the weather?” Cooper smirked as he watched his oldest brother pull out some earmuffs and a scarf.

“Yeah, last thing I want is to fall ill. It’s always around this time too.” John smirked, before feeling his smile falter as he glanced at the scarf.

The scarf given to him by Dickory.

He felt his heart break slightly as he gently brushed his thumb over the hand made item, the texture still soft and looking new after all this time.

Two years since the yodelling brothers had vanished, and he only hoped the two were ok, where ever they were.

Despite the rocky start, John had grown fond of the brothers, especially with Dickory who he had form a friendship with.

“JD... I’m sure they’re fine.”

He startled slightly at the hand on his shoulder, before glancing over to see Poppy with a sad smile.

“Yeah, they’re tough those two.” John Dory nodded with a small smile before wrapping the scarf around his neck. “I’m sure they’re fine.”

Poppy smiled in understanding before leaning up on her toes to embrace him, which John instantly returned.

Cooper and Branch glanced at each other, before their attention was directed to Juniper who cried out while flailing her little arms. “Want MD!”

“Alright little lady, we’re going.” Branch chuckled, as Poppy and John Dory glanced over and laughed.

“I’ll take her!” Viva giggled madly as she swiped her niece from her fathers arms and raced out of Rhonda.

The Armadillo bus settled down with a soft warble as everyone made their way to the large door of the Bergen home, which instantly swung open to reveal a beaming Brandy.

“I thought I heard Rhonda. Come in! Come in!” the Vacaytioner beamed happily as she stepped to the side, before glancing over her shoulder. “Honey! Everyone is here!”

There was shuffle, then Bruce appeared around a corner before spreading out his arms. “Guys! You’re early!”

“Uncle Bruce!” both Maria Dixie and Juniper exclaimed before rushing over to their uncle who quickly scooped them up into a hug, laughing loudly.

Chaos soon broke out as Bruce’s children came rushing over to greet their uncles and aunts.

“Hey kids!” John Dory laughed as he greeted them all, before his attention was directed to Rainy who hugged him tightly.

“Thank you for the notebooks and pens Uncle Dory! I already been writing up songs since my birthday! Want to see them?” Rainy said excitedly as he let go and pulled out a notebook from his hair.

“Sure kiddo! I’ll love to see it.” John beamed happily after getting his breath back. His nephew sure had a strong hug on him.

After much catching up and talking, everyone eventually headed out onto the streets to start their walk towards the castle.

The children rushed ahead happily while Maria Dixie stayed behind the group to hold hands with Juniper, knowing that her younger cousin wasn’t as fast as her or the others.

John Dory smiled, feeling proud at how protective and thoughtful his daughter was towards Juniper.

Bergens and trolls in the streets greeted them happily as they walked by, the excitement clear on their faces. It wasn’t everyday when the heir to the throne was born, especially one where Trolls wasn’t served as the main course.

John Dory could remember the massive party the Pop Trolls threw when Princess Juniper was born, it was way bigger and louder then the one thrown during his brothers wedding to Poppy.

Which wasn’t surprising... because it was the first royal birth outside the Troll Tree. It may not seem like a big deal to those on the outside... but to the Pop trolls?

It was monumental.

Once at the castle, they could see the doors were wide open, and the interior was just as brightly decorated as the town itself.

Brightly coloured bunting, streamers and banners hung from every drab stone wall, giving the once cold interior a warm bright vibe.

“Oh, this is so exciting!” Poppy giggled as she practically vibrated next to Branch. “I can’t wait for you guys to see little Marrow, he looks just like Bridget.”

“Little she says.” Cooper smirked as he playfully bumped into John Dory, who grinned back.

“Well, little for a Bergen.” Poppy rolled her eyes before giggling, as she linked arms with her sister.

Juniper got tired of walking and held out her arms to Clay. “Carry me!”

“Sure Junnie.” He grinned and quickly picked her up and held her securely.

Floyd chuckled before looking at Maria Dixie, and held out his arms with a hopeful look. MD giggled and jumped into his arms instantly.

“They have got you two wrapped around their little fingers.” John Dory smirked after watching the interaction, before turning to Branch as Clay stuck his tongue out at him, and Floyd rolled his eyes with a smile.

“Hey Bitty B, finished that song you wanted for Kismet’s next big show. Remind me to give it to you when we get back.”

“Awesome, thanks bro.” Branch playfully punched his shoulder. “Just got to keep Trickee from drooling all over it. You know how he gets every time we get a new song from you.”

Cooper smirked as he leaned in. “Boom reckons Trickee has a secret shrine to JD in his home.”

John scoffed as Branch burst out laughing. “Oh, har har har. You’re only jealous because it’s bigger than your shrine to Boom.”

Cooper gave him the rude hand gesture, before looking sheepish when Poppy suddenly glared at him in disapproval. “Not in front of the kids! You’re suppose to be a role model Coops.”

“Role model on how to be a royal pain in the butt.” John Dory whispered loudly to Branch, then they both began to chuckle.

“Hey! I’m the youngest, you shouldn’t pick on me.” Cooper pouted, before yelping when Branch playfully pushed him.

“Boys, behave.” Poppy giggled as she linked arms with her husband. Brandy chuckled as she walked past to catch up with her children, winking at the two pink trolls in amusement.

When they finally reached the large throne room, it was already filled with many Bergens and Trolls, all eager for a view of the new Bergen heir.

The room was bright and clean, with even more decorations lining the walls. To the side was a large table laden with food and drinks, while on the other side was a pile of gifts for the new-born.

“Daddy!” Maria Dixie called from Floyd’s arms before squirming free. “Can I go give them my gifts?”

“Oh! You made gifts for them? That’s so sweet!” Poppy beamed as everyone glanced down at the two-year-old.

“Of course, Pixie. I’m ready when you are.” John Dory grinned as kneeled down slightly to be level with his daughter. This caused the others to look towards him with curious looks.

“Go with MD!” Juniper squirmed and reached out for her cousin. Clay put her down, and chuckled as Juniper waddled to Maria Dixie and hugged her.

“Awwww! That’s so adorable.” Viva cooed as she linked arms with Clay, watching as Maria Dixie took Juniper’s hand as she led the way towards the steps leading up towards the two occupied throne.

“Wait until you see what she’s been working on, takes after her old man.” John Dory winked at the others before following after the two trollings.

King Gristle was beaming with pride and pure happiness as he sat next to Bridget, wiggling his fingers at the infant that lay swaddled up in his wife’s arms. Prince Marrow had his mother’s hair and face shape, but his facial feature was all his father’s as he squealed and giggled with delight.

“Hello!” Maria Dixie called out, catching their attention as she waved her arm wildly, causing Juniper to giggle.

“Sup Gristle, Bridget, long time no see.” John Dory grinned as he held up his left hand in greeting. “Congratulations on the cute kid.”

King Gristle grinned back and sat up straighter, as Bridget beamed and waved at the two trollings. “John Dory my man, long time indeed. Is that Maria Dixie? She’s gotten bigger.”

“And little Juniper too, I’m so glad you guys could come, isn’t that right sweetie?” Bridget smiled lovingly down at her son who babbled and waved his chubby arms.

John chuckled and kneeled down to ruffle his daughter’s hair. “Pixie made gifts for you guys. Picture or song first?”

“Song first!” Maria Dixie giggled, bouncing up and down on her feet. “Daddy helped me make it.”

“Oh, how lovely! Hear that Gristle? She made us a song.” Bridget gasped with excitement. “That’s so sweet!”

Gristle nodded and whistled loudly, causing the whole room to look over and go silent. “Quiet everyone. Go ahead little one. Let’s hear it.”

Maria Dixie nodded and sucked in a deep breath, as she let go of Juniper’s hand and reached into her puffy teal hair to pull out her banjo. With a flick of her wrist, she began to strung out a catchy tune, as John Dory picked up his niece and stepped back.

“Prince Marrow! Make way, make way!

Prince Marrow , it’s time you knew…

Love and happiness, is all you need!”

Maria Dixie strummed away as she began to dance, her steps and movements having an energetic bounce to them as John Dory winked at his stunned family members before joining in with the singing, his movements matching those of his daughter who grinned up at him.

Juniper clapped her hands to the catchy song, and laughed as she bounced along in her uncles’ arms, clearly delighted at being part of the show.

King Gristle and Queen Bridget stared in awe as the crowd gathered around to watch.

“ The Bergens are practicing…

They dance to an upbeat song!

This new tradition is our mission…

And Prince Marrow, there’s so much to do!

Make way! Make way!”

John Dory lowered his body down on one bended knee as he swung around, just as Maria Dixie did the same before stumbling slightly. She straightened up and laughed before continuing to sing, not letting her slip-up hold her back as John laughed too.

“ We share everything we make… We make!

We joke, and we weave our hearts with joy…

The Bergens and Trolls are friends you see!

Don’t shy away…

Your family and friends are here beside you!

Your people will need a King, and there you are!”

The crowd were clapping along now, enthralled by Maria Dixie singing and dancing with her father.

Cooper nudged Branch with a grin, before the two walked forward to join in with the dance as best they could.

Bruce and his children clapped along as well, as Brandy squatted down to allow Poppy and Viva to climb onto her hands, both sisters in awe of the show.

Floyd looked close to tears as he watched with an awe-filled smile, while Clay bopped his head along with the beat with a wide grin.

“There comes a day…

When you’re gonna look around…

And realize happiness is inside your heart!

We’re safe, and we’re well provided…

And when we look to the future, there you are!

You’ll be okay…

In time you’ll learn just as your father did…

You’ll find happiness inside your soul!”

Prince Marrow babbled in excitement as Bridget started to cry softly through her smile. Gristle looked on top of the world as he clapped along with the rest of the crowd.

John Dory slide between his brothers and wrapped his prosthetic arm around Cooper as they sang, letting little Juniper jump into Branch’s arms who laughed.

“And when I think of tomorrow, there we are!

You’ll lead the way...

You’ll have your people to guide you!

We’ll build our future... together where we are!

‘Cause every path leads you back to where you are!

You can find happiness right where you are...

Where you are!”

Maria Dixie closed her eyes as she strummed out the last few notes of her song, then posed dramatically...

... before stumbling over her large leafy vest and falling over.

Everyone erupted into huge applause as Floyd rushed over to scoop up his niece. “Oh my muses, you were amazing! I’m so super proud of you MD!”

Clay rushed over too, his hands reaching out to squish the trollings cheeks together. “You’re so smart! Your choreography is coming along great!”

John Dory chuckled as he watched his brothers fuss over his beaming daughter, then tilted his head towards Branch. “You know, she reminds me a lot of you when you were that age Bitty B.”

Branch smirked as Juniper climbed into his hair. “That’s a good thing, imagine if she grew up to be a dork like you?”

“Oi! Rude.” John faked pouted before sticking out his tongue. “Bleh!”

Juniper poked her head out and copied her uncle. “Bleh!”

Cooper laughed as he moved to stand between the two, slinging his arms around his two brothers. “I have the best brothers in the world, never change guys.”

John Dory chuckled and ruffled Coopers hair, the action making his green hat tilt to the side. “Never little buddy, no matter how old we get.”

They watched Bruce joining Clay and Floyd in praising Maria Dixie, as Brandy walked over to talk to Bridget and Gristle with Poppy and Viva sitting on her shoulders still.

John Dory was so busy focusing on everyone else, he failed to notice an elderly pop troll walking over.

“Oh my muses! Look at you!”

John looked over at the elderly troll, then flinched in surprise when she grabbed his cheeks. Her wispy grey hair had a few remnants of its former orange colour, and her skin a pale pink that may have been red in her younger days. She wore a simple pale green dress with a black belt around her waist, and a brown scarf that almost trailed to the floor. Fingerless brown leather gloves on her hands completed the look.

Her eyes were a bright blue that seem to sparkle, and John Dory was hit by the familiarity of those eyes.

In fact, the elderly female troll had a familiar aura that made him feel strange and uneasy for some reason.

“You look just like him! They weren’t lying at all! Oh my goodness!” she cooed, squishing his cheeks as she tilted his head from side to side, her eyes darting around his face as if examining him.

Cooper tensed up and tried to pull John Dory closer to him as Branch suddenly hissed and stepped forward to push himself between the strange troll and his brother. “Excuse me! I’ll appreciate it if you stop touching my brother!”

His voice raised in volume, gaining the attention of the others who looked over with curious expressions.

The elderly woman didn’t seem fazed at all, as she squealed in delight and grabbed Branch’s cheeks instead. “Oh my goodness! You’re here as well! Oh you look just like him too! Oh my muses, I can’t believe I get to see both of you!”

John sucked in a breath, not liking the way this troll had said he and his brother looked like someone. He had an awful feeling he knew who the woman was referring too.

Yet that strange feeling of familiarity still persisted, and it was rubbing him the wrong way. Judging from Branch’s expression, he was feeling it too.

He pulled Branch back away from the trolls hands and forced a smile. “You know, it’s kinda rude touching people who don’t know you.”

“Oh, that’s true. Yes.” She sighed, her eyes filling with sadness and regret as she crossed her arms. “Hmmm... yes, why did I come here again? Ah... that’s it.”

She suddenly grabbed their shoulders, causing them both to flinch with wide eyes filled with shock. “I just wanted to see you two, that’s all.”

“Oooooookay?” John frowned, feeling on edge. Was this woman crazy or.... maybe an obsessive fan? Something felt off though, something wrong.

Branch stared, looking weirded out as his mouth hung open slightly. Just then Bruce appeared, looking furious. “Get your hands off my brothers.”

The troll instantly let go and spun around, eyeing up Bruce before smiling with joy. “Oh my goodness, you look just like her. Wait until I tell the old hag.” She laughed at the bewildered look on Bruce’s face before starting to walk away without another word through the crowd, humming loudly.

They watched the old troll walk away with bewildered expressions

“Ok, that... was super weird.” Cooper frowned before looking over his brothers. “You guys ok?”

“Yeah we’re fine, guess she’s been hitting the drink too hard.” John Dory joked, though inside he felt horrible and tensed at the unpleasant experience.

Branch bit his lip. “Something seems familiar about her? I can’t quite put my finger on it. It’s like... I should know her or something.”

Clay and Floyd walked over now, both looking concerned. Maria Dixie was with Poppy and Viva, handing out her drawing to Bridget who looked delighted.

“I’ve never seen her before, but... I know what you mean.” John said with a slight frown.

Then he paused before glancing around his brothers. “She said we looked like him. You don’t think she means...” he trailed off, feeling uncomfortable.

Floyd blanched slightly and looked around with panic in his eyes. Clay tensed up as his hands curled into fists and shook slightly. Bruce looked even more furious as he glanced around, moving his body closer to his brothers in an almost protective stance.

Branch looked confused, before going pale. “Wait... you think she meant... dad?”

“The wacko troll who abandoned you guys?” Cooper looked bewildered, before glancing around himself, as if said Troll might suddenly pop out.

John Dory let out a breath, and rubbed a hand over his face. “For now, let’s just keep an eye open. For all we know, that could have been the ramblings of a crazy senile old troll.”

“Oh yeah, she totally didn’t seem all there.” Cooper nodded in agreement.

Bruce let out a breath and glanced around with a hard look. “I swear if he’s here, someone will have to hold me back. Been wanting to punch my old man since I was a kid.”

“Get in line.” Branch smirked. “I call dibs.”

John Dory snorted as he wrapped his left arm around Floyd who moved to be closer to him. “The old man who carried us wouldn’t dare show his face around here. For all we know, he might not even be alive.”

“Daddy!” Maria Dixie called as she rushed over, her arms reaching out as she beamed.

John Dory kneeled down and laughed as she collided into his chest, before coming to a startling realisation as he looked into his daughters eyes.

Now he knew why the elderly trolls eyes looked so familiar to him, his daughter had the same bright blue eyes.

Same as him and Branch.

Chapter Text

Chapter 3 – Fever and Books

Floyd never had any good luck in the love department, during his travels over the years after leaving the Troll Tree.

When he was found malnourished and starving by the Reggaeton trolls at the age of fourteen, a travelling nomad group, it was a troll called Boris who first found him.

Boris was only two years older then Floyd, and as he began to travel with the group, they began to grow close.

Really close.

Floyd slowly developed feelings for the Reggaeton Troll the more he got to know him, finding his carefree attitude, confidents and heavy accent rather attractive.

Judging from the way Boris seem to look at him, or act towards him, he felt the same way.

Every chance they got, they would wander off from camp to spend time together, talking about their lives and their hopes for the future... with the occasional kissing session in between.

Floyd loved how Boris seem to listen, how he seem to make him feel special.

This was it... he finally found a place to belong to, a troll to belong with.

His solo career may be slow, but he found a home and a safe haven. Now he needed to convince Boris to come back with him to fetch Branch and Grandma Rosiepuff from the Troll Tree.

A dangerous job, but he knew they could pull it off together.

But all that came crashing down, when Floyd went to his boyfriends tent with a plan... only to find him in the arms of another troll, their lips locked in a furious clash of domination.

“B-Boris?” Floyd squeaked, before wincing at the high pitch tone of his voice.

Boris broke the kiss and turned his head to grin widely at the pink haired troll, acting as if nothing was wrong. “Floyd! I was about to fetch you, meet Amino. Amino, this is Floyd.”

“Hey.” Amino smiled and gave a friendly wave. “It’s nice to finally meet you. Boris is right, you’re pretty cute.”

Floyd blanched slightly, confusion mixed in with his feeling of betrayal and sadness. “W-What’s going on?”

Don’t cry. Don’t cry. Don’t cry.

Boris blinked, as if bewildered by the fact his boyfriend seemed so upset. “Chill Floyd, Amino is our partner. You’ll come to love him, I promise. Just as much as I love him, and you.”

As Floyd stared, unable to hold back the tears. “I thought... you and me, didn’t we have something special? Why are you going off with someone else?”

Boris blinked, before laughing, which only made Floyd feel worse. “You talking as if I’m dumping you. We do have something special, and I have something special with Amino. I was hoping you will too, the three of us together!”

Amino nodded shyly. “I look forward to getting to know you better Floyd. Boris talks highly of you.”

Feeling sick, Floyd turned away. He had nothing against polyamorous trolls, but it wasn’t for him. He wanted a soul mate, someone to have that special one to one connection with.

With a heavy sigh, Floyd turned away. “I’m s-sorry Boris, I can’t. I don’t think we should date anymore.”

“What? Come on Flo, don’t be selfish. Give it a try, you might like it.”

Selfish? Was he really being selfish? Maybe he was more then John then he thought, and for some reason, the small connection to his older brother bought him a sliver of comfort.

He shook his head and walked off, ignoring the calls and shouts of his now ex.

From then on, Floyd avoid Boris like the plague. After a few months, he left the travelling group to continue his pursuit of developing his solo career.

He needed to build his career and find a permanent safe home for Branch. He promised after all...

That was how he eventually stumbled upon the K-Pop village two years later, a bizarre sight for sure, but Floyd felt an instant connection with the sub-genre that was obviously descended from Pop Trolls.

But there was something else about them that called to him, something he couldn’t put his finger on.

Like another deeper connection he couldn’t explain.

The K-Pop trolls were wary of him at first yet curious, but once they heard him sing, they welcomed him to the village with open arms.

It was here, he met Rain.

Floyd always believed he only swung one way, so when his heart skipped a beat, and his stomach dropped whenever he came close to Rain, it came as a shock to him.

Like a pendulum, turns out he actually swung both ways.

Rain was loud and energetic, always wanted to be the centre of attention, and she had the skills to do it. Her voice overflowed with confident as she sang from her heart, and Floyd found himself getting lost in the melody.

Rain didn’t want much to do with him at first, but finally after Floyd turned twenty one and his singing grew more define and strong... they became an official couple, and he truly believed he was in love with the beautiful and talented K-Pop Troll.

They had teamed up years ago, their performance becoming so popular, that together they left the village to seek their fortune in the bigger settlements.

From one place to another, their singing career climbed alongside the size of the crowds and fan base.

Rain was mainly in charge, scheduling all their shows and planning out everything right down to the smallest detail, and wasn’t afraid to show her displeasure if anything went wrong.

In a way, she reminded Floyd of his oldest brother John Dory before he left.

At first, things have been amazing, but as they started to slow down, Rain’s displeasure and disappointment began to direct itself towards him.

“I thought you were better then this!? Try harder!”

“Just stay out of my way Floyd! I’ll do it!”

“Honestly Floyd, we should be number one right now, you’re holding me back!”

Floyd tried to be better, his love for Rain blinding him to what was so obviously there right before him.

Then when he turned twenty seven, the veil was lifted when Rain left him. She didn’t even break the relationship personally, and simply had left him a note on their hotel bed for him to find the next morning.

He swore off trying to find love after that, believing a troll like him didn’t deserve it. How could he?

He left behind a two year old brother to fend for himself with his elderly grandma. He promise to come back, and broke that promise years ago.

Floyd was selfish and a horrible brother, and his colours began to grow dull.

Not quite grey, but clearly not as bright as he use to be.

He had a few relationships after that, one with a male rock troll... another with a female Reggaeton when he crossed paths with the travelling nomad group, but they were simple flings that barely lasted a few weeks.

Then... came the time he was finally reunited with all his brothers, and none of them hated him like he believed they would. Even Branch, who had been cold towards him at first, warmed up to him.

This was when his colours truly returned to normal, though no one noticed due to his white limbs, pale skin and pale hair caused from having his talent drained  from the diamond bottle.

Floyd was back where he belonged, feeling safe for the first time since leaving the Troll tree. His desire to create a singing career for himself, and to travel the land had died a long time ago.

He was content to live in Pop village forever with his brothers, learning to be a brother again, and an uncle to his many nieces and nephews.

He still couldn’t get over the fact Bruce had fourteen kids, and apparently wanted more.

Floyd had zero interest in dating or pursuing a genuine real relationship... until his eyes landed on Jaz, and when their eyes met, something seemed to click.

Jaz was a Jazz troll, and looked to be in her mid twenties judging from his guessing. She was definitely  a few years younger then him, and she seemed unbelievable shy and withdrawn too.

A far contrast to all his other relationships who had been loud and boisterous.

His heart didn’t skip a beat, and his stomach didn’t drop, but Floyd felt a sudden connection, a sudden understanding.

It was her eyes, full of kindness but also sorrow, pain and loss.

It made Floyd want to reach out and take her hands, to take her to a better place and protect her. Especially from her brother who almost seem to regard his sister with hidden disgust behind his fiery red eyes.

Which made no sense, because Jaz was the complete opposite from the Trolls he likes to date.

So Floyd kept quiet as he watched the Jazz troll disappear, and then tried to forget all about her. Something that John Dory encouraged, due to some conflict with her brother Chaz.

...

...

...

He often wondered what her voice would be like if she sang one of his songs.

Two weeks after the celebration for Prince Marrow, the incident of the strange elderly troll was all but gone from everyone’s minds.

It was agreed that the brothers father Elton, wouldn’t dare show his face. They believed anyway.

That morning, which was a particularly chilly autumn morning, John Dory woke up in his bed and groaned. His head felt heavy, and his nose tinted slightly red and feeling sore.

He felt awful, and cursed his luck at falling sick once again at this particular time of the year. He had promised to send time with Clay today, and give a go at reading one of the many books in his brothers personal library that focused on making the reader sad.

It was rare when he got to spend one on one with Clay, and John wasn’t going to let some stupid sickness hold him back. A cup of brewed purple leaves and he should be fine. Right?

John sighed and climbed out of bed, before sneezing loudly and almost stumbling back from the force. “Oh Sugar and Cupcakes... stupid immune system.”

There was a knock, and then the door swung open to reveal Branch with a smirk. “Uh oh... I recognise that sneeze from anywhere. Dory Sickness Season is upon us again I see.”

John Dory scoffed and rolled his eyes. “Thanks to you and Cooper, everyone calls this month the DSS. I’m surprised Popstar hasn’t made it an official holiday or something.”

“Hey! Great idea!” Poppy laughed as she popped up behind Branch. “We can plan activities like, who can wrap the most scarves on JD or... who can feed JD the most soup!”

John Dory laughed before erupting into a wet sounding cough, making Branch look suddenly concerned for his brother.

“Oh man, you sound awful. Maybe you should stay in bed today, I’ll go brew you some purple tea and-!”

John quickly cut across his blue haired brother. “No no, it’s fine. I just need the tea and to wrap up warmly, can’t miss out on quality time with Clay. Especially when it’s about something he enjoys.”

Branch and Poppy glanced at each other, before nodding and looking back.

“Alright, I’m heading off now to take the kids to play group. Little Juniper is looking forward to showing off MD to her friends.” Poppy chuckled before turning her head to kiss her husbands cheek, making him blush.

“Thanks Popstar.” John Dory grinned. “Pixie loves attending play group every time we come to stay here. Such a social glitterfly, takes after me obviously.”

“You dork.” Branch scoffed affectionately. “I’ll go make you that tea while you get ready.”

There was a sound of running footsteps, then an orange blur shot through between Poppy’s legs who yelped from surprise.

“Daddy!”

Maria Dixie launched herself at John Dory who effortlessly caught her with his left arm, clearly use to doing this.

“Woah Pixie! Where’s the fire?” he grinned, as his daughter placed her hands on his cheeks and nuzzled her forehead against his.

“No fire silly! I wanted to say good morning! So... Good morning!” she giggled.

John Dory smiled softly, thanking his lucky stars that he had Maria Dixie in his life. “Good morning, Pixie. Have a great day at play group, ok?”

Juniper soon made an appearance too, since the trolling was never too far from her favourite cousin. “Bye bye Uncle Dory!” she giggled while clinging to her mother’s leg. “Go play group!”

“Bye Junebug, see you later.” John chuckled as he kneeled down to let Maria Dixie walk over to take her cousin’s hand. Poppy kissed Branch again before leaving to take the trollings, as they waved on their way out.

Branch grinned before disappearing to make the tea, as John Dory stretched and began to get dressed.

He made sure to dress extra warmly by wrapping his scarf around his neck before pulling on his prosthetic arm and brown jacket.

Once done, he headed into the kitchen where Floyd was already sat at the table eating breakfast. “Morning JD.” He smiled in greeting before blinking, his expression becoming concerned. “Branch was right, you don’t look too good man.”

“I’ll be fine after I’ve had my special drink.” John Dory waved off his concern before grabbing a box of cereal from the cupboard.

He poured out a bowl, added milk and sat down, just as Branch walked over to place a steaming cup of purple tea down before him.

John gave his thanks and took a sip of the drink, tasting the sharp tangy flavour of the herb. It was a strange taste, but one he had grown to enjoy over the years.

Just then, there came a knock on the door before Biggie and Smidge walked in, both looking worried and on edge.

“Is Queen Poppy here?” Smidge asked straight away after a quick look around.

Branch frowned as he grabbed his coffee from the side and turned around to face them. “No, she’s took the kids to play group. Why? Is there an issue in the village?”

Biggie stroked his pet caterpillar Mr Dinkles in an act of calming himself. “Something broke into the berry storage last night, and Creek said he saw a large strange critter prowling around his garden.”

“A few other trolls have reported seeing something strange last night too, I was hoping to catch Poppy before she left.” Smidge nodded. “My husband Milton even mentioned how the critters at his veterinary seemed unusually skittish this morning.”

John Dory blinked before glancing at Floyd who looked just as none-plussed as him. They’ve had large critters wander near the village before, but none of them had been hostile or a danger.

“I’m sure it isn’t a problem.” Branch sighed. “Tell you what, why don’t you guys stay here and wait for Poppy, she shouldn’t be too long. I’ll go and take a look around.”

“Thanks King Branch!” Biggie beamed as he hugged Mr Dinkle. “Mew!”

“Just Branch please.” He groaned, still not use to having the king title. “It’s weird having my friends call me that.”

Smidge grinned at his reaction, before turning to John Dory. “Hey JD, got any of your famous pie here?”

John gestured to the fridge with his prosthetic arm, his mouth full of cereal as he munched away.

The small troll grinned and instantly made a beeline for the fridge, as Biggie followed behind her with a look of delight.

Even Mr Dinkles looked excited.

Soon as he was done, John Dory drained the last of his tea and got up from the table, already feeling a bit better as the tangy bitter tea warmed up his stomach. “Alright Bitty B, Flo-Flo, I’ll see you guys later.”

“Hold up you dork, I’ll head out with you.” Branch grinned as he walked over to lightly punch his brothers shoulder, earning a yelp.

Floyd chuckled as he watched John stick out his tongue. “I might tag along with you and help out Branch, if that’s ok.”

“Sure.” He grinned before adjusting his goggles.

John smirked and reached over to ruffle his brothers cobalt blue hair before heading for the entrance of the pod.

Together, the three left and swung themselves down to the ground below, feeling the coldness beneath their feet due to the chilly autumn morning.

Quite a few trolls were out and about already, with some even grouping up together to sing as they went about their daily business.

Across from them, they saw Smidge’s husband, Milton Moss heading to play group with their four month old son.

The little trolling was practically a double of his father, but had his mother’s small build.

“So, heading over to Creek to ask about what he saw last night?” John Dory asked with a smirk, as he tilted his head towards Branch who scowled slightly.

“And listen to him fawn over you? No way. You know how weird it is listening to that? It’s gross.” His brother huffed.

Floyd blinked as they walked past the small market, filled with a mixture of trolls visiting the village. “Fawn?”

John rolled his eyes. “Bitty B thinks Creek has a crush on me, because I saved his life around four years ago I think?”

“I don’t think, I know. Little yoga loving creep.” Branch huffed.

“Awwwww! So protective of his big brother.” John laughed and pinched his brothers cheek, causing him to smack his hand away.

“You dork!”

John Dory grinned before playfully pushing him. “Well good luck on your critter hunt guys, this is where we part ways.” He turned and jerked his thumb towards the pods where the Putt-Putt trolls mainly lived, the area decorated very similarly to how the golf course was.

“Say hi to Clay for us, and come home if you start to feel too ill.” Floyd smiled, though there was a hint of concern in his eyes.

“I feel fine now, only a little bit warm.” John answered honestly, grateful that the tea had taken care of most of his symptoms.

Branch narrowed his eyes, before sighing in defeat. “See you JD, I’ll swing by later to check on you.”

John smirked and raised his hand before heading off, as his two brothers began to walk in the opposite direction.

After a few steps, he felt a strange sensation overcome him, so he stopped and flicked his ears.

There was distant laughter and singing of the trolls, the sounds of everyday life of the bustling village, and the swaying rustling sound of the surrounding forest around them.

John Dory frowned slightly and looked around, before shrugging and continuing on towards Clay’s pod. Maybe he was being paranoid... but it felt like he was being watched.

Clay was curled up reading in his favourite armchair, legs tucked away underneath, and a pair of specs perched on his nose when John Dory arrived.

With a grin, John rapped his knuckles against the doorframe, gaining his neon green haired brothers attention. “Permission to enter Mr Clay.”

Clay rolled his eyes and closed his book, as a smile tugged at his lips. “Permission granted. Branch was right, you really are a dork.”

“Ay! He’s a liar and you shouldn’t listen to him, I’m awesome. Ask Trickee.” He laughed as he walked in, his eyes looking around to soak in the interior of Clay’s home.

It was cozy, and from the many shelves and comfy seats, definitely gave off the vibe of a warm and inviting library.

“Where’s Viva?” John asked as he took a seat, letting the warmth of his brothers pod wash over him, not realising how cold he actually felt.

“With her dad, apparently they’re having a candy day.” Clay smirked as he walking through a doorway that led to his kitchen. The sound of the kettle being clicked was heard, along with the clinking sounds of cups and spoons.

He smiled, glad that Viva was getting on so well with King Peppy despite hidden her existence a secret from Poppy.

“So no doubt she’ll be in full swing of a sugar rush when she comes back later.” Clay laughed, his voice full of fondness for the princess.

“So bro, when you thinking of popping the question to Vi?” John Dory asked as he snuffled and got comfy in the armchair, before letting out a sneeze and wriggling his nose.

“I dunno man, I've written up like a dozen different plans to create the perfect scenario to ask her, but then I just... panic.” Clay answered honestly as he walked out of the kitchen with two cups, which he placed on coasters on the little table between their chairs.

John blinked, before smiling softly. “Well... just as a suggestion, why don’t you ask her to marry you at the Fun ‘n Hole?”

Clay raised an eyebrow as he sat down and grabbed two books that had been laying on the floor beside his chair. “The golf course? Seriously?”

“Just hear me out.” He raised his hands slightly. “Bitty B was originally going to ask Popstar to marry him at their favourite camping spot, because it was a place they like to go alone together. What do you and Viva do when pop village gets too overwhelming for you both?”

Clay stared, before understanding filled his face. “We go to the golf course... that’s it! I need to write this down!”

Abandoning the books that was most likely for their reading session, Clay pulled out his notebook and pen to scribble away furiously.

John Dory watched his brother with a soft smile, pleased that he had someone like Viva to stand by his side. He was still surprised it took them both this long to realise their feelings for each other.

Or maybe they did, but never acted on it? Love does funny things to people sometimes...

“Done!” Clay grinned before shoving the notebook back into his hair, his eyes shining with excitement. “Thanks man, this is the best plan I’ve written so far. I owe you one.”

Then his happy expression changed to one of concern, as his eyes roamed over John Dory’s face.

“What?” he asked defensively.

Without a word, Clay got up and walk over to place the back of his hand against his brother’s forehead, before quickly jerking it back. “Geez bro, you’re burning up! That time of the year already?”

John shrugged before grinning. “It’s fine Beansprout, I had my special tea so it’s not so bad.”

Clay crossed his arms, not looking impressed. “So instead of staying in bed to get better, you came here risking your health.”

“You’re worth it.” John Dory answered honestly with a smile. “I’ve been looking forward to spending time with you, I wasn’t going to let a little sickness stop me.”

His neon-green haired brother blinked in surprise, then his expression seems to melt as if deeply touched by his words.

With a shake of his head, Clay smiled softly. “Stupid Dory, park your butt on the couch. I’ll be right back.” With that, he walked off out of the room.

John tilted his head slightly, wondering what his brother was up to before getting up to move over to the couch. He grabbed his drink and sipped away as he waited, and removed his prosthetic arm for good measure, which he propped up beside the couch.

By the time he finished his drink and task, Clay was back with a puffy blanket.

“Viva made this for me years ago, my old blanket was falling apart and we were going through a pretty bad winter in the golf course.” He grabbed the books from the floor, sat down next to John and threw the blanket over their legs. “Just lay back and relax, I’ll read.”

John Dory felt deeply touched as Clay leaned against him and flipped open the book, his voice loud and clear as he began to read chapter one.

He relaxed and simply enjoyed the warmth of his brother and the blanket, feeling the chill in his bones melt away.

Both were unaware of two pale green eyes watching them from the window.

Chapter Text

Chapter 4 – Music like Jazz and Polka

From Troll to Troll in the village, Branch spoke to each one and took notes on his notepad, trying to find out what he was dealing with.

So far, the research into the mystery of the creature had been appalling, no one seem to have actually got a good look at this strange critter that had invaded their village last night.

He was hoping for this investigation to be a simple and easy one, but no one really had an idea on what they saw, if anything.

The only conclusive evidence he really managed to obtain was that the critter was fast, and was slightly smaller then a… well, then an adult troll.

“Maybe we should talk to Creek? I know you don’t like him, but maybe he managed to get a better look?” Floyd suggested as he walked beside Branch through the village.

He groaned and rubbed his face, resisting the urge to sling his notebook and call it a day. “I was hoping to avoid him, but fine… let’s go see the creep.”

“I’m sure this Creek guy isn’t that bad.” Floyd chuckled as they changed direction, now heading up a hill to where a lone pod hung above a large garden filled with flowers, vegetables and berries.”

Branch scoffed as he readjusted his goggles on his head. “Just wait until you get into a conversation with him, and for the love of trolls, don’t mention JD’s name.”

“Why’s that?” giggled a voice behind him.

They spun around to see Poppy grinning with her hands behind her back, rocking back and forth on her feet.

Branch relaxed and reached out to pull his wife close, pressing a quick kiss to her cheek. “Thank the muses you’re here. I need all the support I can get, dealing with Creek.”

Poppy giggled and leaned against him. “Honestly, he isn’t that bad Branchifer. Now let’s go talk to him, so far everyone hasn’t had much to say.”

“Same. For all the drama, it seems like no one really saw anything.” He agreed.

“Kinda weird isn’t it?” Floyd hummed thoughtfully.

The three continued on their way up the hill as they discussed, soon catching a glimpse of Creek working hard on his beloved garden.

“Morning Creek!” Poppy called out cheerfully as she linked her arm with Branch, her free hand waving as the troll in question looked up.

“Ah, Queen Poppy. Welcome to my little patch of heaven.” Creek smiled as he pressed his hands together. “And to you too, Branch, Floyd.”

“Sup.” Branch grunted, not looking pleased as his brother nodded and waved with a smile.

“Hope we aren’t disturbing you too much Creek, we were hoping to ask you about the critter you saw in your garden last night.” Poppy smiled as they slipped through the gate and into the garden itself.

Creek brightened up as he picked up his shovel and bucket filled with bulbs. “Oh, it was horrible Queen Poppy, there I was… relaxing in my pod with a cup of my favourite herbal infused tea, when I heard dreadful hair-raising sounds coming from outside.”

“Oh boy…” Branch muttered under his breath, as he rolled his eyes. His wife gave him a look of disapproval.

“So, I gathered my courage, and steady my nerves as I went outside… and there… in the midst of my beautiful serene garden…” Creek closed his eyes and posed for dramatic effect, his hand raised to his forehead. “Was a creature ripping up my gorgeous vegetables!”

He wildly gestured to a part of the garden where it was clear vegetables had been pulled up roughly, the soil disturbed and scattered all over the nearby stone path.

“Yeah yeah, very traumatic.” Branched waved his hand, not looking very concerned. “But what did the critter look like?”

Creek gave him a cool look, clearly not impressed with his lack of sympathy before turning towards Poppy, ignoring him. “It was the strangest thing my dear Queen, when I got a closer look at the creature, it kinda looked like... well... like a troll.”

Branch blinked, as did the other two. Have they seriously been looking for a critter all this time when it was actually another troll?

Oh, now he was annoyed.

“Wait... so it a troll who did this?” Poppy asked, looking bewildered.

“Not a troll Queen Poppy.” Creek smiled and raised his hands. “I said they looked like a troll, but they had a tail, and their pointed ears were longer. Not to mention their dreadful hair, which I think might be fur actually. Never seen anyone like that.”

“Could it be a sub-genre troll?” Floyd said as he looked to Poppy who seem to be deep in thinking.

“That could be a possibility... I might have to bring it up in the next summit with the other leaders.” She nodded. “For now, I’ll inform Smidge to gather a group of volunteers for night watch.”

“Excellent idea my Queen. Hopefully the dreadful creature is caught and held accountable.” Creek sniffed.

There was rustle from the trees above, before something looking like a golf ball dropped down before them. It startled Creek so much, that he stumbled back and fell on his butt with a yelp, earning a snigger from Branch.

“Viva!” Poppy said cheerfully, as her older sister unfurled and bounced to her feet.

“Poppy!” The older princess beamed before rushing forward to plait her sister’s hair in nano seconds, a feat that still impressed the others to this day. “I was going to surprise you when I overheard your conversation.”

Poppy touched her hair plait with admiration as Branch crossed his arms. “Yeah, you mean the conversation about some weird troll like critter that’s been causing trouble around the village? Seen anything weird this morning?”

Viva paused and raised a finger to her chin. “Hmm… well… I did see a strange troll earlier when I visited dad. She had a tail, but she didn’t look like a country troll. I tried saying hello, but she freaked out and hid in the trees, poor thing.”

Branch blinked before snapping his gaze to Poppy who looked equally taken back. “Do you think that might be our elusive culprit?”

“Could be…” She said thoughtfully before glancing at her sister. “Where did you see her last Viva?”

“Close to where me and the Putt-Putt trolls live.” She answered, now looking a bit worried. “Why? Is she dangerous?”

Floyd’s eyes widen. “Ah… we need to go warn JD and Clay about this, especially if this troll or critter we’re looking for is in that area.”

Branch paused, then turned around with a worried expression. He hadn’t even thought of that, and knowing there was a slight possibility that his eldest brother might be in danger didn’t settle well with him at all.

Without another word, he rushed off through the gate and down the hill.

Poppy and Floyd glanced at each other before following after him, with Viva bringing up the rear with a confused but concerned look.

Jaz brushed aside her ponytail from her face before sucking in a deep breath, eyes staring straight ahead at the hanging colourful pods of the Pop Trolls. She was at the very edge of the village boundary, trying to build up the courage to enter and look for her friend.

She knew exactly why her friend had come here, and couldn’t understand why the boss was even allowing the girl to do this, let alone allow her to stay with the girl.

Something didn’t seem right, and it made her skin crawl.

At least Jaz was away from her brother, allowing her to finally breath and relax without worrying about doing something wrong.

Keeping low in the overgrowth, Jaz shivered slightly from the autumn cold as she entered the village boundary.

From bush to bush, she began her search while keeping quiet and out of view of the singing and joyful trolls. The thought of entering and dealing with crowds of trolls made her anxious and sweaty.

Realizing searching like this was pointless, Jaz groaned before wrapping her ponytail around a branch to launch herself up into the tree, knowing her friend was more likely to be hiding higher up then down here.

Clutching her saxophone close, she swung herself up to the next branch, and was about to continue on when there was a rustle in the leaves above her.

“Polka?” Jaz whispered while looking up, her eyes hopeful. “Polka it’s me!”

The cluster of leaves rustled again, before out popped a Glitterpillar. Its appearance was so sudden, it startled Jaz who stepped back with an expression of surprise… right off the branch itself.

“Ahhh!” She yelled as she fell, before quickly lassoing her ponytail around the branch, making her swing forward and backwards like a pendulum.

Well… that didn’t go the way she had hoped.

“Hello?”

Jaz blinked before looking to the side just the bushes below parted to reveal a familiar looking pink troll.

Poppy looked around before glancing up, their eyes making contact.

She froze up, her eyes wide with alarm as she clutched her saxophone to her chest even tighter.

Dread filled her chest when she realised this wasn’t just your average Pop Troll. This was Queen Poppy herself.

“Ummm…” Poppy blinked as she stared in bewilderment and also caution, as three more trolls appeared behind her.

Jaz was surprised to see that one of them was the pink haired troll that she had seen before, the one who had waved and smiled.

He had seemed so friendly...

“Is it the critter!?” Branch asked frantically, moving to stand close to his wife in a protective manner, as Floyd stood behind him with his ears pinned back.

Soon, they all looked up at Jaz who was still hanging from the branch, their eyes widening in shock.

“Ummm… h-hi?” She swallowed nervously and raised her hand, before slowly lowering herself down to the ground, her hair returning to normal once her feet touched the floor.

“The heck you doing here!?” Branch growled slightly as he instantly stood in front of the others, as if to shield them from the Jazz troll. “Are you the one who’s been prowling around the village at night?”

Floyd looked shocked to see the Jazz troll, his mouth gaping slightly as he stared.

Prowling around at night? Oh no…

“N-No! It wasn’t me!” Jaz squeaked as she raised her saxophone in front of her face slightly as she lowered her ears. “I only just g-got here.”

Branch glared at her and stepped forward, but stopped when Floyd quickly placed his hand on his shoulder. “Hold on bro, the critter or troll has a tail remember? It’s not Jaz.”

The pink haired troll then looked up at her and smiled softly, with a hint of eagerness and excitement on his face. Jaz blinked in surprise before smiling back, taking note of the tail comment.

Seems her friend Polka has been causing trouble already. She had hoped to have got here in time to prevent that...

“Yeah, relax Branchifer.” Poppy smiled as she stepped around, before turning to smile at the Jazz troll.

Jaz instantly noticed the Queen’s smile was forced and filled with distrust, as if the Pop Queen was cautious about her presence.

Jaz didn’t blame her if that was the case, alot of trolls were like that towards her, thanks to her brothers behaviour.

“Welcome to Pop Village, though I’m a little surprised. I thought you and your brother didn’t like us.” Poppy said cheerfully, a little too cheerfully.

“Chaz doesn’t.” She frowned and looked down, knowing full well if her brother was here right now, he wouldn’t be allowing her to talk like this. “B-But I don’t… I umm… sorry, I’m not use to talking like this to other people.”

Poppy’s cautious expression softened slightly. “Your brother, is he here?”

Jaz shook her head. “N-No. I’m on my own, looking… looking for my friend.”

Branch raised an eyebrow as he crossed his arms. “Your friend huh? Who happens to be here in the village?” His voice was full of suspicion and mistrust.

“I’m telling the truth.” Jaz whimpered slightly and raised her saxophone even more to hide her face, now starting to struggle. How do people maintain eye contact during conversations? It was so hard…

“I’m looking for my friend, h-her name is-!” She was cut off as Biggie came charging through the bushes towards them, panting and sweating with a look of fear.

“Queen Poppy! Queen Poppy!!!”

Everyone turned around in surprise, and Jaz jumped violently at the sudden loud yells of the bigger blue skin troll.

“Woah Biggie! Calm down!” Poppy raised her hands as Branch wrapped his arm around her waist. “What’s wrong?”

“It’s the critter!” Biggie exclaimed. “I saw it! Sneaking into the Book Club when I came by to return my book.” He lifted up the blue coloured book. Fifty Care Tips for the Fashionable Caterpillar Pet.

“Wait… WHAT!?” Branch yelped as Viva gasped in horror and raised her hands to her mouth. “JD and Clay are there! Dang it!”

With that, the cobalt blue haired troll rushed off with fear and alarm on his face, followed closely by Viva who also looked worried for the safety of her best friend and boyfriend. Poppy and Floyd rushed after them, both looking concerned.

Jaz watched, then she began to worry. It was clear this critter everyone was talking about, was her dear friend Polka. “W-Wait, I’m coming too!”

She began to run after the group, trying to ignore the sudden stares of the other trolls as they burst out of the bushes in a mad dash.

John Dory yawned and slowly opened his eyes, feeling warm and cozy under the puffy blanket draped over him. Clay was curled up next to him, book open on his lap as he slept with his mouth open, drooling slightly.

Both of them must have gotten too comfortable while reading, and fell asleep on the couch together.

He glanced at his brother and smiled softly, before leaning his head back while closing his eyes with a happy sigh.

Spending time with Clay had been lovely, the two actually enjoying each other’s company without any arguing, just like their younger days before the band was formed.

John didn’t even feel that ill anymore, a slight stuffy nose and temperature, but that was it.

Maybe another nap with his bro wouldn’t hurt.

A slight ruffling of what sounded like the pages of a book instantly caught his attention as his ears flicked, his eyes snapping wide and glancing to the side before widening.

There on the floor was a troll laying on her stomach, head propped up on her hands as she looked over an open book on the floor.

It was a troll that John Dory had never seen before, their skin a pale green, their troll like white hair was more like fur that seem to curl down, their eyes were green, and the oddest thing about her... was the longer pointed ears and the tail with a tuft of white fur at the end.

She seemed young too, maybe her mid-teens? The girl was wearing a simple mahogany short sleeveless dress, kicking her legs as she continued to read the pages of the book, which seemed to be about different types of candy.

At first, John Dory thought maybe the girl was a sub-genre, but as he continued to study the strange troll, he slowly started to have the feeling she was actually half troll, like his niece and nephews.

There was just something about her that felt… oddly familiar.

The girl hummed and turned a page, before pausing… then quickly looked up to make eye contact with John who jolted slightly.

The girl stared, before jumping up on all fours and swiftly crawled over like some kind of bipedal creature.

Within seconds, she had jumped up and perched herself on the armrest of the couch, leaning in close to John Dory who yelped slightly and leaned back.

“H-Hello?” He gulped, as Clay began to stir.

The girl stared and tilted her head, before suddenly smiling shyly while raising her hand to give a small wave. She didn’t say anything.

John Dory stared, before slowly relaxing as Clay opened his eyes and froze.

 The girl glanced at Clay and waved her hand again, looking even more shy.

“Ummm… can we help you? The Book Club isn’t open today.” Clay frowned as he sat up looking cautious, pushing his body forward slightly in front of John, as if trying to shield him from this strange troll that was still perched on the armrest.

The girl tilted her head to the side again, her eyes studying them closely as her tail swished from side to side.

Then she jumped down and crawled to the book she had been reading, before bringing it over and holding it out to Clay, who looked a little bewildered and weirded out as he reach to take it.

John Dory frowned slightly, still getting that strange vibe and odd feeling from this troll. She seemed kinda… vulnerable? Lost? Familiar?

Judging from Clay expression, his brother was having those strange feelings too.

Suddenly their youngest brother Branch came crashing through the entrance, looking frantic and worried.

He quickly looked around before his eyes landed on the girl who stared, before crouching down low to the ground with a fearful expression, her ears pinned back as her tail thrashed madly.

“HEY! Get away from my brothers!” he yelled angrily, pointing his fingers at the girl.

“Branch! Wait!” Poppy gasped as she appeared behind him, along with Viva and Floyd who both stared right at the girl who was backing up now, acting like a cornered animal.

The expression of fear on her face, made John Dory suddenly want to protect her for some strange reason that he couldn’t put his finger on.

“Woah Bitty B, stop.” He said, pulling the blanket off his legs and standing up, wincing slightly at the slight crack in his legs. “She hasn’t done anything to us, besides… she’s only a kid.”

The girl darted behind his legs before peering around at Branch with wide green eyes, making him pause as a strange expression flashed across his face.

“Oh hey! Hello again!” Viva beamed as she stepped forward and kneeled down. “So you’re the one that’s got everyone talking! My name is Viva, what’s yours?”

The girl lowered her ears, before shyly raising her hand to give a little wave.

“I don’t think she can speak.” John Dory hummed before looking down, as the girl looked up with a curious expression.

Then her ears suddenly flicked as someone else made an appearance.

“Wait! Don’t hurt her!”

Everyone turned around to see Jaz dash through the doorway and skid to a halt. “I’m s-sure she didn’t mean it!”

Instantly, the girl hiding behind John Dory’s legs perked up, and rushed forwards on all fours towards the Jazz troll, then hugged her tightly around her waist.

Jaz sighed in relief and hugged her back. “Polka! Thank the Muses you’re ok!”

Branch crossed his arms, not looking impressed. “So Polka huh? She’s your friend? Well... your friend has been causing trouble for the village! She’s stolen food from storage and wreaked Creek’s garden.”

“Branch…” Poppy sighed, giving him a pointed look as her hands moved to her hips. “Let me handle this please.”

Jaz blinked before biting her lip. “I’m sure she didn’t mean to, we’ll both replace the food she took a-and umm… we’ll both go help repair the damage to the garden. Polka is really sweet, honest.”

Polka moved to stand behind Jaz, peering around her at the group with wide eyes as she nodded, her tail wagging.

“Well, that seems reasonable.” Floyd smiling brightly. “And I’ll help too.”

Jaz glanced at him, looking greatly surprised. “You… will?”

Polka perked up, smiling at Floyd before waving at him. He chuckled and waved back. “Hello Polka, I’m Floyd. It’s nice to meet you.”

Clay walked forward, with a strange expression on his face as his eyes looked Polka up and down, clearly deep in thought.

“Well, that’s great.” Poppy gave a cautious smile as she clapped her hands together. “I’ll give you a list of what’s missing, and show you to the garden. Do you plan on staying in the village for a while?”

Polka quickly nodded her head, looking excited as her tail wagged wildly.

Jaz looked at her friend and bit her lip, before sighing. “I guess so, it won’t be for long, I’m sure. We can live outside the village, so don’t worry about accommodation.”

“You sure? We have guest pods used for visitors, you can stay there.” Floyd said, looking eager. The pink haired troll was clearly delighted at having Jaz here.

John Dory glanced between his brother and Jaz, frowning slightly before glancing at Poppy who glance back with the same expression of worry.

Chapter Text

Chapter 5 – Mystery Deepens

Poppy shifted from one foot to the other as she waited on her podium, her hand holding onto Branch’s own with a tight grip, seeking comfort from her husband.

A week after the whole incident with the strange troll called Polka and Jaz, she had received a letter calling for an emergency meeting between all the Troll Leaders.

It seems it was issued by King Trollex, the leader of the Techno trolls. With the meeting taking place in Techno Lagoon, the Techno Troll district in the newly built city of Trollstopia.

Well... almost completely built.

Branch was now eligible to attend, and her husband was both excited and nervous to be attending his first meeting with her.

To the left, stood Delta Dawn and John Dory at their own podium representing Country, their heads together as they whispered something to each other while holding hands.

King Trollex was rubbing his hands together with a nervous expression on his face, same as the leader of the Classical Trolls, who was bobbing up and down in the air frantically.

King Darnell was glancing every now and then towards John Dory while standing upright, his body tense. When he caught Poppy’s eye, he gave a half-hearted smile.

Even Queen Barb looked on edge, her ears twitching now and then.

“Ok, thanks for making it to the emergency meeting guys, I get it was short notice.” King Trollex finally spoke out, gaining everyone’s attention. He turned to face Branch and bowed his head in respect. “Welcome to your first meeting Branch, though I wish it was on better terms.”

“Just spit it out already man.” Barb barked, bouncing her left leg up and down. “What the heck is happening?”

King Darnell quickly stepped forward. “Hold on, we need to give a quick debrief of what’s been going on, for those who are new here.” He nodded at Branch and smiled, who smiled back in appreciation.

John Dory and Delta Dawn looked over as well and nodded. “We haven’t said anything to him due to the rules, my brother needs to know before we continue.”

“Then I’ll start.” Poppy said confidently as she gave her husband’s hand a squeeze. “In the last couple of years, bounty hunters and trolls who are part of a band, have gone missing. From the information we receive, a troll and someone the size of a Bergen have been spotted approaching the trolls prior to going missing.”

“And we still haven’t found the culprits.” Queen Barb hissed, looking angry, slamming a fist into her other hand. “Our investigation has found nothing.”

Branch looked concerned as he listened, leaning in closer to Poppy who sucked in a breath.

“Yeah, the yodel brothers were the first to go missing… and we think whoever is behind this, has Chaz the Jazz troll working with them.” John Dory sighed, looking weary and downcast. “We’re not sure if his sister is involved, but it’s a high probability.”

“What!?” Branch exclaimed, his eyes going wide in shock. “I thought it was strange those guys stopped showing up, but they’re missing? And Chaz? Seriously?”

“For a few years now.” John nodded as he leaned against his wife, looking downtrodden.

“And Yes.” King Darnell nodded. “We have information that Chaz was approached by our mysterious trollnappers, yet he’s still around. I think it’s safe to say the Jazz troll is involved.”

“That’s not all sugah.” Delta piped up as she wrapped an arm around her husband’s waist. “Chaz been doin’ a lot of spying in Lonesome Flats, we think my Dory Darlin might be a potential target, along with you Branch dear, and yah brothers too. Maybe even that there band of yours, Kismet.”

“What!?” Branch exclaimed again, looking shocked. “Seriously!?”

Poppy nodded and sighed, feeling guilty as she leaned in closer to him. “Sorry I couldn’t tell you before Branchifer, we didn’t want to cause a panic until we had more information.”

“Fine, as much as I don’t like it.” He huffed. “But if Chaz is apart of this, then what are we going to do about his sister Jaz?”

“Jaz?” King Trollex frowned, looking confused. “Has something happened?”

“She’s been living in the outskirts of Pop Village for a week.” John Dory explained as he looked over at the Techno Troll. “Along with a half troll called Polka. Never seen anyone like her actually, she’s a mute but very sweet and pretty dang curious too.”

The other troll leaders suddenly looked alarmed.

“Dude, are you seriously letting the Jazz troll roam around your village? She’s bound to be working alongside her brother.” Queen Bard said as she tapped her left foot repeatedly.

Poppy raised her free hand. “Already covered, I have a group of trolls taking turns watching  Jaz 24/7. So far, she hasn’t had any suspicious behaviour reported that might cause any concern. Yet.”

“Well…” King Trollex straightened up, suddenly looking grave. “Now that’s all out of the way, and everyone is caught up… roughly, it’s time we get onto why I called this emergency meeting in the first place.”

Everyone turned to face the Techno troll, giving him their full undivided attention.

Trollex looked around at them all, his fin like ears pinned down in a sign of anxiety. “We were having one of our rave parties last nights near the northern shores… when a troll crashed the party. It was one of the K-Pop bounty hunters who went missing.”

“What!?” King Darnell gasped, as Delta Dawn covered her mouth in shock.

“Goodness!” the Classical Leader exclaimed. “Is she alright!?”

Poppy gasped as she stepped forward on her podium. “This is huge! What did she say King Trollex? Does she know who’s doing all this?”

The other leaders began to chatter away in excitement, before going silent as the techno troll raised his hands, looking sombre.

“Nothing. They collapsed on the beach moments after, and they haven’t woken up yet.” He sighed, lowering his head slightly. “Never seen anything like it... their limbs and hair were white and almost like crystal.”

Poppy froze, as did her husband Branch and John Dory. All three of them looking horrified and shocked.

“Wait... but that’s impossible!” John said, looking alarmed. “That’s the side effects of talent stealing!”

“The same thing that happened to you and Floyd?” Queen Barb asked, crossing her arms, unable to mask the worry on her face.

“Wait, you guys know about that?” Branch frowned before glancing at Poppy who nodded.

“Yeah, me and JD told everyone about the incident during one of our meetings. It’s important to share information, in case something like this happens.” She explained, before closing her eyes and sighing. “But... this means the Rageons might be involved with this now.”

“Or rather those talentless succubi brats.” John Dory mumbled, not looking happy. “They’re the only ones with the diamond bottles capable of stealing talent, but they’re in prison.”

Poppy bit her lip. “Are they?”

Everyone fell silent.

If Velvet and Veneer had somehow broken out... then...

“I’ll head up to ole’ Mount Rageous with some trolls.” Delta Dawn suddenly said, looking determined as John Dory blinked at her in surprise. “Check in to see if them varmints are still locked up. If not, at least we’ll know we’re heading in the right direction to solving this mystery.”

“I’ll tag along with a few of my guys too.” Queen Barb spoke up, smirking slightly. “Been wanting to see what the Rageons are like, they sound pretty fun.”

“Alright sugah, the more the merrier.” Delta chuckled before turning towards John and pulling him close. “I’ll try and get back in time for the Trollabration Dory Darlin, if not, you and little Sunshine enjoy the day ya hear?”

John Dory chuckled before kissing his wife’s nose, making her blush. “We will Sunset. Just be safe, ok?”

Poppy chuckled as she watched them, before glancing at Branch and noticing the expression on his face. His eyes were trained on his oldest brother, looking concerned and almost… fearful?

“Hey… JD will be fine.” She said softly, giving his hand another gentle squeeze that gained his attention. “He’ll be will us, and I have trolls on watch duty around the village. Nothing is going to happen to him, you, your brothers and Kismet.”

Branch stared, before letting the tension go from his body and relaxing. “Yeah… yeah you’re right. I just… I have a bad feeling about all this, like something is going to happen. Something big.”

Poppy nodded before glancing around at the leaders, who were all talking among themselves now as the meeting came to a close.

She had that feeling too.

Jaz sighed as she brushed her hands through Polka’s fur like hair, pulling out twigs and dead leaves after the half troll had accidently fallen into a hole left by a critter, that was partially covered by fallen dead leaves. “There, nearly done now.”

Polka winced and let out a low huff, arms crossed as she sat in front of her friend.

“Good thing the hole was abandoned.” Floyd chuckled as he sat next to the two girls, strumming his guitar lazily.

For the past week, he had been visiting the two in their little make shift pod outside the village.

Jaz didn’t understand why the Pop troll was being so nice...

Normally most trolls avoided her, thanks to her brother.

The three were currently sitting on a branch high in the trees, which overlooked the village. Apart from Polka, who didn’t seem to feel the cold, Jaz and Floyd were dressed up warmly with scarves around their necks.

Polka grinned at them as she turned her head, her long ears wiggling slightly before she giggled.

Jaz smiled softly, tossing the last few twigs she had removed over her shoulder. “Thanks for helping in pulling her out Floyd.”

“Hey, no problem.” He grinned as he strummed out a few notes. “I’ll admit, she’s kinda grown on me this past week. Like a little sister, if that makes sense.”

Polka beamed happily, clearly happy at the trolls words as her fur like hair seem to fluff up slightly.

Pretty adorable.

Jaz jolted slightly, before smiling nervously. “Y-Yeah, I see Polka like my little sister too. Known her for five years, ever since she was ten.”

She looked away, opting instead to look over the village with a soft sigh. If only she could tell the truth...

“So, looking forward to the Trollabration?” Floyd asked as he leaned back, one leg bent while the other swung over the edge of the branch.

Jaz looked back and gave a half-hearted smile. “I doubt I’ll be welcomed, and even if I was... I... my brother wouldn’t allow it.”

Floyd paused, before he lowered his guitar as his eyes glanced at her curiously. “What’s the deal with your brother? Why is he so...” he trailed off and gestured with his hand in a circular waving motion.

Jaz smiled sadly, as Polka swung down and below with her fur like hair, heading to the ground. “I love my brother, he’s the only family I have left after mom died several years ago. He... use to be kinder before it happened.”

Floyd looked sympathetic, his expression softening. “Sorry to hear that Jaz, but still... you’re his sister. The way Chaz treats you is like, you’re...

Jaz lowered her head, her ears pinning back. “Like garbage?”

The pink haired troll paused, his eyes filling with concern and a flicker of anger. “Yeah.”

She smiled sadly as she opted to watch Polka exploring the forest floor. “Like I said, he treated me better before mom died. Sometimes I wonder, is it because we have different fathers.”

Floyd blinked in surprise as he lowered his guitar once more. “Different dads? But you and Chaz look almost identical!”

Jaz chuckled softly and shook her head. “My brothers father was a Jazz troll like Mom, but my father... well...” she hesitated, feeling suddenly nervous.

Her brother would be furious if he saw her now, talking about her father, or even debating about revealing the secret that made him so ashamed of her... but he wasn’t here.

So...

She swallowed hard, plucking up the courage before going for it. “... my dad is a Rock Troll.”

Muses, that felt good to finally say that to someone.

Floyd stared, looking flabbergasted. “Seriously? You’re half rock!?”

Jaz opened her mouth to speak, but a noise below caught their attention.

Both trolls looked down to see Polka with a wide smile, on her head was a glitterfly. The half troll giggled happily, keeping still.

Jaz smiled softly. It’s been a while since she had seen her friend look so happy and carefree. Maybe... being here away from them was worth it after all.

“I really think you two should come to Bergen town for Trollabration.” Floyd grinned, his fingers strumming a few notes on his guitar. “And you’re wrong about not being welcomed. We’re friends right?”

Jaz whipped up her head and stared in surprise, looking taken back.

Wait, he considered them friends? Despite her being half Jazz?

She stared, before slowly smiling as she picked up her saxophone that lay next to her. “Yeah... friends.”

Her brother wouldn’t approve, but he wasn’t here... and by the muses, it felt nice having a friend outside of Polka.

Jaz was finally free to make her own choices, even if that freedom was only short-lived.

A distant warbling cry echoed through the trees, and Floyd suddenly grinned as his eyes filled with excitement.

Jaz tilted her head, looking curious, wondering why the sound of that critter bought such joy to the Pop Troll.

When the meeting was over, John Dory and Branch got a pleasant surprise the moment they stepped out.

“Brother Pile!” Cooper laughed as he flew out of nowhere, colliding with his brothers, including King Darnell who left the chamber at the same time, sending all four of them to the ground in a crumbled heap.

Poppy jumped back before raising her hands to her mouth, trying to hold back her laughter. Delta Dawn didn’t bother, and simply throw back her head to laugh at the scene.

“Cooper!” Branch growled as he grabbed his youngest brother in a headlock.

John Dory groaned as he lay on his back with the three trolls on top of him. “I’m too old for this... elder abuse, that’s what this is.”

Darnell burst out laughing before tackling both Branch and Cooper, the three rolling off John as they wrestled.

“Boys.” Poppy rolled her eyes as she chuckled. “Even when they’re Kings, you can’t stop them.”

“That’s why they need us sugah.” Delta Dawn giggled before walking over to scoop up her husband who yelped, and threw him over her shoulder before slapping his butt. “I’m gonna borrow Dory Darlin for an hour, spend some alone time till yeh drag him back to Pop Village. See ya honey.”

Cooper popped up his head and began to waggle his eyebrows, as Delta began to walk away with John blushing hard.

After some time with his wife, and some catch-up with Cooper before he left with Darnell, John Dory headed home with Poppy and Branch.

The journey from Trollstopia didn’t take long, since the city was technically in the middle of all the troll tribe territories.

They were offered to stay for the night, but the group had wanted to get back to their families as soon as possible.

Being away from Maria Dixie and Juniper for too long didn’t sit right with the brothers and Queen.

When they arrived at Pop Village, Rhonda sank down to the ground while panting, as John spun around in his chair with a grin. “Thank you for travelling with Rhonda and Dory, hope you had a pleasant experience.”

“Dork...” his younger brother grumbled, who had been oddly quiet on the journey.

“Branch? You ok?” Poppy asked softly as she laid her hand on her husband’s shoulder.

“Not really, how can I be ok when my brothers might be in danger! Again!” Branch growled slightly, looking up at Poppy, then John. “Muses, even my bandmates might be in danger, and I’m not even allowed to tell them.”

“I know it’s hard Bitty B, but losing our heads and panicking isn’t going to help.” John Dory said as he got up from the seat, walked over to wrap his left arm around his brother.

Instantly, Branch hugged back, burying his face into John’s chest. “I know... I just thought all the dangerous stuff was behind us now. The Bergens... the Rock-apocalypse... Talent stealing Rageons... and now this?”

“Yeah, kinda sucks don’t it?” John chuckled. “But we’ll get through it.”

Poppy giggled and joined the hug. “And this time, we have all the troll leaders helping out. We aren’t as alone as before. Let’s just focus on the kids and enjoy ourselves for now, ok?”

Branch pulled his face away and rolled his eyes, before smiling. “Fine...”

John ruffled his hair, earning a yelp from his brother. “Speaking of kids, let grab the little rascals from play group, then I’ll rustle up some grub for us, Country Troll style.”

Rhonda warbled behind them, rearing up slightly before slamming her front feet down.

John Dory burst into laugher and turned around, instantly reaching out with his left hand to rub the girls face plates with affection. “I won’t forget to feed you too. Who’s a good girl? Yes, you are!”

“Ugh... get a room you dork.’ Branch smirked as he crossed his arms.

“Ay! You’re just jealous that you don’t have an amazing Armadillo bus, like my sweet little Rhonda. Isn’t that right girl?” John cooed, making Rhonda warble happily before licking him.

With that, the group began to head off towards the village as Branch playfully punched his oldest brother on the shoulder, making John yelp and pout.

As long as they had each other, they’re get over any obstacle that comes their way.

As long as they have each other...

Chapter Text

Chapter 6 – The Return of Brozone 2.0

There was a slight wind blowing as snow began to fall lightly, the clouds above a steel grey.

Down below, Trolls and Bergens alike were bustling around Bergen Town, working together to decorate the town for their once-a-year special holiday.

The Bergens only holiday.

Trollabration Day.

Lights hung from every home and street lamp, and the Troll Tree itself glowed a multiple of dazzling bright colours.

Around the central area, multiple of stalls had sprung up, alongside the shops, selling warm clothes for the weather, a variety of delicious baked goods and hot drinks.

The ground was already starting to turn white from the soft snowfall, making the view of the town even more spectacular.

John Dory sat on a counter of a drinks stall that had been set up in the main street of the town, a cup of steaming hot chocolate clasp between his hands.

He had his scarf and earmuffs on, taking sips of his drink while watching Poppy and Bridget zoom around the street ahead, making sure everything was organised and ready for the event later that day.

How that girl had so much energy, he had no idea. Muses, he misses the days when he had that kind of stamina.

His daughter, Maria Dixie was sat next to him, munching on a shortbread biscuit that was baked that morning by her aunt Brandy.

She was dressed warmly for the weather, wearing her blue dungaree this time, along with her pink scarf and earmuffs.

“Feeling better?”

John looked up at King Gristle, who was sitting on a stool besides the drink stall with Prince Marrow in his arms.

The infant was dressed up in a snuggly green jumpsuit for the cold weather, slowly falling asleep as his father fed him his bottle, his tiny hand clasping Gristle thumb.

“Yeah dude, feeling better.” He smiled, before reaching out to snag his own shortbread biscuit from the plate next to him to take a bite.

It was his second biscuit, yet the older troll was struggling to shake off the sudden hunger that had been plaguing him all morning.

While having a snowball fight with his daughter, John suddenly felt dizzy and fell onto his butt as his world spun.

He was thankful King Gristle was nearby and helped him to the stall.

Gristle shuffled his son slightly as he nodded, placing the now empty bottle on the counter as he began to pat the infant on his back. “Sure you don’t want me to go and fetch Branch, or Poppy?”

John shook his head and swallowed his mouthful of biscuit. “Nah, they’ll only start fussing and babying me. They act like mom and dad sometimes.”

He noticed the strange look on the Bergens face and laughed. “I mean King Quincy and Queen Essence.”

Maria Dixie almost dropped her half eaten biscuit as she gasped, her eyes bright and fill of joy. “Is Gram Gram and Gram Pappy coming?”

“Sure are kiddo.” John chuckled as he ruffled his daughters hair, puffy and soft like her mothers. “And uncle Darnell and uncle Cooper are coming too, along with Boom and the rest of Kismet.”

Maria Dixie squealed with delight. “I want to sing with uncle Trickee.”

John Dory laughed and ruffled her puffy teal hair. “I’m sure uncle Trickee would like that.”

The two had recently become partners in crime, and John felt like he had two children now.

A vibrating hum began to fill the air, which only made the trolling more excited as she peered up into the air expectantly.

“On time.” John Dory smirked before he took another bite of his biscuit.

King Gristle stared up at the Funk Troll mothership with wide eyes. “I never get use to seeing that, it’s so... funky.”

“Come on Daddy! I want to see Gram Gram and Gram Pappy!” Maria jumped to her feet and began to frantically tug at her fathers jacket.

John smirked, before raising a hand to his forehead and sighing dramatically. “But Pixie... my legs aren’t working! You’re going to have to carry me! Oh the trollmanity! Bleh!”

He slumped slightly on his daughter who giggled. “You’re lying! Stop being a dork!”

John gasped and placed a hand on his heart. “You can’t call me a dork! I’m your amazing dad!”

King Gristle chuckled as he watched the scene between father and daughter.

“Uncle Branch told me to call you that if you act silly.” MD giggled, her eyes twinkling.

Of course Branch did, he’ll be having words with his little brother. Pop King or not.

“Oh look, my legs are working now.” He winked before jumping to his feet and allowing himself to be dragged along by his daughter, who pulled him along by his hand.

“See you around Gristle, and thanks for earlier.” John grinned as he waved at the King, who nodded back with a smile.

“Anytime dude. See you later.”

They swung off the stall using their hair and rushed towards the end of the town, where the funk ship was landing.

They arrived, just as King Darnell and Cooper exited along with their parents following behind.

“Gram Gram! Gram Pappy!” Maria Dixie cheered as she finally let of her fathers hand and rushed forward, giggling when Queen Essence scooped her up with a wide smile.

“My little Funkstar!”

The trolling giggled as the Funk Queen began to pepper her little face with kisses.

“Big D, little buddy.” John Dory grinned as he slapped hands with Darnell before wrapping his left arm around his baby brother for a hug.

“Where’s Branch?” Cooper asked as he looked behind his older brother.

John turned around slightly while keeping his arm around Cooper, and gestured with his prosthetic arm towards town. “He’s with the other bros at the moment, helping Brandy out with her baking.”

His baby brother nodded, suddenly looking nervous. “Cool. I ah… kinda need to have a private word with you and Branch. I have like, a huge favour to ask man.”

Essence and Quincy gave each other knowing looks, before glancing at Darnell who smirked slightly. It seems whatever the favour was, they already know about it.

“We’ll look after Maria Dixie, while you go discuss with your brothers son.” Quincy smiled as he gently nudged Cooper who looked grateful.

“Yay! I get to play with Gram Gram and Gram Pappy!” MD cheered as she raised her hands into the air before hugging Essence around her long neck, making the Funk Queen beam with delight.

Darnell walked over and grinned. “Trickee and the others are hanging out in Vibe City little MD, wanna go say hi?”

“Yeah!” The trolling cheered happily, her bright blue eyes shining with delight and excitement.

John Dory smiled softly, having full trust in leaving his daughter in the funk trolls care. “Thanks guys. Alright Coops, let’s go fetch Bitty B.”

Cooper grinned and dipped under his arm before running towards the house owned by Brandy and Bruce. “Race ya old man!”

“Ay! Who you calling old ya brat!” he laughed, giving chase after his baby brother.

Across the street they ran, weaving between other trolls and the legs of the bergens.

By the time they reach the front door of their brothers home, Cooper was leaning against the doorframe with a smirk as John panted and leaned on his knees.

“Whew… running ain’t what it use to be.”

His baby brother laughed before pushing away from the doorframe, then proceeded to kick at the door a couple of time with his back legs.

A few seconds past, and the door swung open, revealing Brandy in a blue and white polka dot apron with a bowl full of cake batter under her arm.

She looked around before turning her gaze downwards, smiling brightly when she saw the two. “Why hello! Your brothers are just in the kitchen, come in!”

“Thanks Brandy, but do you think you can send Branch out for a moment?” Cooper asked with a bright smile.

Brandy nodded and turned to head inside, moments later, Branch walked over. “Coops!” He grinned and reached out to fist bump his baby brother, who returned the gesture with a smirk.

“Hey, I need to have a private word with you and JD. That cool?”

Branch nodded and stepped outside. “What’s up?”

Cooper quickly looked around, to make sure no one was near enough to hear, before leaning in towards his brothers. “I have a really huge favour to ask. Is it possible Brozone 2.0 make a sudden return to perform tonight for Trollabration?”

Branch and John Dory stared, looking taken back.

Brozone 2.0? Wow… when was the last time the three of them had perform together? Just them as their band?

“We haven’t performed as Brozone 2.0 for years.” John Dory said as he tilted his head and frowned. “I mean, I don’t mind little buddy. I’m sure King Gristle will let us if we ask.”

“What’s bought this on? If you want a band to perform, I can go on stage with Kismet.” Branch frowned as he crossed his arms, looking curious.

Cooper shook his head, suddenly looking nervous again and… embarrassed?

“Don’t laugh ok? But umm…” Their baby brother looked around again, cheek red. “I want to propose to Boom.”

John Dory gasped. “Wha… seriously!? That’s great!”

He wrapped his arm around his baby brother and sniffed dramatically. “My sweet little child is becoming a man! I’m so proud!”

“Way to go bro!” Branch grinned as he playfully punched Cooper on the shoulder, making him yelp as he tried to squirm free from John’s grip.

John Dory smirked, feeling his heart soar with happiness. “We totally need to make t-shirt. “The Brozone Husband Club.”

“Ok one, that’s super lame dude.” Cooper laughed as he pulled himself free. “And two, I want us to sing Family. That song has always been special to me, and I… I want us to sing it once more before I propose.”

John blinked, before smiling warmly as his left hand reached up to ruffle his baby brothers head, nearly knocking off his green cap.

He had written the song Family years ago, not long after Cooper had found out he wasn’t blood related to them.

He wrote that song for them to perform, because blooded related or not… they would always be family. For that reason, the song had a special place in Coopers heart.

The fact he wanted to perform it one last time before proposing to Boom, was so sweet and heartwarming.

“Sure, little buddy. Let’s go see Bridget and Popstar about it, the two are running around the Troll Tree at the moment, organising everything. They got more energy than Rhonda on a bath day.”

Cooper beamed, before swinging his front legs around them, hugging them both. “You guys are the best brothers ever. Brozone 2.0 is back baby!”

He cheered the last part out, gaining attention on the street.

“Wait… Brozone 2.0 is back?” A troll who had been walking by suddenly halted in his tracks, eyes wide in disbelief.

John Dory looked over. “What? No dude, we’re just-!”

“Hey guys! Brozone 2.0 is coming back!”

“Wooooo yeah!”

“We love you Brozone 2.0!”

Trolls began to walk over from all over the street to crowd the three brothers, clearly excited.

“Oops.” Cooper chuckled, looking sheepishly despite the big grin on his face. “Maybe I shouldn’t have spoken so loud.”

Branch punched his shoulder, making his brother yelp. “Ya think? I thought JD was the dork here.”

“Ay!”

The commotion and loud chattering from the crowd of fans soon gained more attention, as Bruce stepped out looking bewildered.

“What’s going on here?”

Clay and Floyd stepped out after him, looking just as taken back and surprised.

Cooper looked at Bruce who had spoken, grinning wildly. “Our fans! Isn’t it great?”

“Woah... Brozone is still that popular?” Floyd said, his eyes scanning the baying crowd with a slight smile.

“I mean... we were the best.” Clay preened, tugging at his romper suit with a smug smile.

John Dory and Branch glanced at each other, not having the heart to correct them.

Unfortunately, their fans had no problem with that.

“Brozone 2.0! Woooo!”

“I can’t wait to see you three on stage again!”

“I want your autograph!”

Bruce, Clay and Floyd blinked, before looking crestfallen.

“Guys. Guys! Brozone 2.0 isn’t coming back!” Branch yelled, looking annoyance at the lack of personal space. “It’s only going to be a one-time thing!”

“Tonight only. Special performance to celebrate Trollabation, so make sure you don’t miss it.” John Dory winked at their adoring fans, touched that after all these years, the pop trolls still adored their band.

A band that was only made for fun.

The trolls cheered and clapped their hands, gaining the attention of the nearby bergens who glanced over with curious expressions.

It took a while, but the crowd finally began to disperse, most likely to spread the news about tonight’s performance.

“Bronzone 2.0... that crowd was for you guys?” Floyd spoke up, gaining everyone’s attention. “Wow... I didn’t realise how popular you three got after we...”

He trailed off, looking uncomfortable.

Bruce and Clay nodded, looking wistful and a bit disappointed themselves.

“Yeah, those were the days.” John Dory smiled, his expression growing soft and he thought back on the past. “The band was made for fun, and it only got really popular when Bitty B and Little Buddy got older. Every time there was a celebration, we were practically begged to go perform.”

“You should have seen the performance we put on for the trolls 20^th anniversary of the Great Escape.” Cooper laughed. “It was wild!”

“Yeah, so wild... we gain Chefs attention, and got JD and all our friends kidnapped.” Branch smirked as he crossed his arms.

John chuckled. “Yeah well, it was worth it in the end. Never dreamed you and Popstar would convince the Bergens to take us off the menus for good.”

Floyd stared, before looking away with a sad and regretful expression. “Wish I could have been there to see it. Sounds amazing.”

“Yeah… it does.” Clay nodded in agreement as he rubbed his arms from the cold.

Branch opened his mouth, then paused… before bumping into Cooper with an awkward expression. “Come on Coops, let’s find Bridget and Poppy to tell the good news yeah?”

“Me too daddy!” Juniper giggled as she poked her head out from her father’s hair. “Find Mommy!”

“You guys go ahead, I’m gonna head back to the funk ship and meet up with the others. I’m preeeeeetty sure MD and Trickee have properly committed several war crimes already.”

Branch snorted and playfully punched his shoulder.  “Alright bro. See you later.”

“See you later bros. Tonight we’re gonna blow everyone’s socks off.” John laughed as he began to walk backwards down the street, wagging his finger at Bruce, Clay and Floyd who all raised their eyebrows at him.

“But... we don’t even wear socks.” Clay mumbled, before being nudged by Bruce who chuckled.

With that, John turned around and began to head towards the ship, his left hand reaching up to readjust his scarf.

Snow began to fall more heavily, swirling around the streets of the town as the wind picked up slightly.

Now alone, his thoughts began to drift towards his wife.

He didn’t like the idea of her heading into Mount Rageous, even if she was with Queen Barb.

What if those fake superstars really have escaped prison, and somehow involved with the disappearances.

John Dory shook his head, suddenly feeling silly. His sweet Sunset was the strongest troll he knew, a pair of Rageons were no match for her and Barb.

She’ll be back before Trollabration starts... right?

As expected, the proposal for Brozone 2.0 to perform for Trollabration was not only accepted, but was met with much excitement from Poppy who almost combusted on the spot.

A stage was instantly up by the Troll Tree, and as the sky grew dark, and Bergen Town lit by the countless lamps and lights strung from building to building, every troll and Bergen gathered around.

The excitement and anticipation was so thick, it could be carved with a knife.

Kismet and Brozone had the front row view, except for Bruce who choose to stay with his wife and children further back.

Poppy stood next to Trickee, both jumping up and down with unbridled energy and in full fan mode.

Maria Dixie and Juniper were in their hairs, heads poking out to stare at the stage for the appearances of their dads and uncles.

Viva stood with Clay, her arm around his waist as he held her close.

“Where is he? He’s gonna miss the show.” Clay said as he looked over his shoulder, eyes scanning the crowd behind him.

Viva looked over her shoulder too, then gasped and waved frantically. “Floyd! Over here!”

The pink haired troll pushed his way through towards his brothers and friends, smiling brightly as he pulled Jaz along.

The Jazz troll looked pale and nervous, clearly uncomfortable at being in such a large crowd.

Polka was clinging onto her back, hitching a ride as she looked around in pure wonder, her tail swishing side to side.

Poppy glanced over, casting curious yet cautious eyes on the two girls. Then the Pop Queen glanced off into the distance, before looking back towards the stage.

John Dory glanced through the curtain, sighing softly as he eyed the buzzing crowds ahead.

His beautiful Sunset hadn’t returned yet, and he couldn’t help the worry that began to fester in his chest.

He was sure everything was fine, but still… John doubted he’ll be able to settle properly until his wife was back and safe.

“Big crowd out there huh? This sure brings back memories.” Cooper grinned, stretching his legs as Branch did the same next to him.

“Yeah… it sure does. Time flies huh?” John turned around to face his brothers, smiling softly. “I know I say this all the time, but I’m super proud of you guys.”

Branch scoffed, even though his cheeks went red. “You’re getting sappy in your old age.” Cooper sniggered and fist bumped his brother, a please look on his face from John’s praise.

“Oi! Cheeky brats! Respect your elders.” He laughed before stretching his arms above his head.

The lights dimmed as the excited chatter of the crowd dies out. Music began to play, as the three brothers grinned at each up before getting into position.

Cooper in the middle, Branch to the left and John Dory to the right as the curtains began to lift.

As one, the three slid across the stage smoothly to the cries and cheers of the crowd, clapping their hands to the beat.

“ The only rule is get on your lil’ feet…

I don’t wanna see nobody heatin’ up their seat…”

“ And if you believe it, if you ‘bout it…

No matter where you’re from…

The apple don’t fall far from it!”

John Dory winked at his brothers in the crowd, all who were watching in amazement.

“Woooo! That’s my husband!” Poppy cheered as she jumped up and down with Juniper. “I love you Branchifer!”

Trickee looked like a child in a candy store, as the other Kismet members began to dance alone.

Even King Darnell was here, dancing along with his parents. “Looking sick Little C!”

“ Now people wanna know when they see us dancin’…

Wanna know how we got those moves…

People wanna bottle it up, up, up, up, up…

But no can do!

People wanna know how to find that feelin’…

Wanna know how we got that groove…

They’re thirsty for the juice!”

Cooper slide to the front in a smooth movement, then winked at Boom before wiggling his eyebrows.

“ But I’ma tell you the truth!

Ooh, ooh-ooh

It runs in the family!

He-he, he, he…

Ooh, ooh-ooh…

It runs in the family!

It’s all about you and me!”

Cooper flicked his hair towards his boyfriend, pulling him onto the stage as Branch and John Dory danced to the side to make room, both grinning away.

The rainbow haired troll looked taken back at first, then blushed and laughed as Cooper playfully bumped into him. Together they began to dance, taking the spotlight on stage as the crowd went wild.

“ Any color, it doesn’t matter…

The way you’re shinin’ on the inside’s all that matter!

A different mama, a different mister…

Talk your talk and walk your walk!

You know I’m right there with ya, and…

People wanna know when they see us dancin’, ooh!

Wanna know how we got those moves…

People wanna bottle it up, up, up, up, up…

But no can do!

People wanna know how to find that feelin’…

Wanna know how we got that groove!

They’re thirsty for the juice!

But I’ma tell you the truth!

Ooh, ooh-ooh…

It runs in the family!

He-he, he, he…

Ooh, ooh-ooh…

It runs in the family!

It’s all about you and me!”

As the song eventually came to an end, the crowd were ecstatic and cheering loudly as Brozone 2.0 along with Boom posed on stage.

John Dory was panting like mad as he grinned, feeling his heart pounding. It’s been awhile since he did something as physical as this, but nothing could dampen the euphoric feeling one felt after a performance like this.

“Go for it little buddy.” He smirked at Cooper, before stepping back with Branch.

Cooper swallowed and turned towards his boyfriend, reaching out to take his hand as the crowd went silent again.

Then there was a collective gasp, and a happy scream from Poppy as Cooper held out a flower ring.

A Pop Trolls symbol of engagement, and promise of Marriage.

“B-Boom, will you marry me?”

Boom blinked, before slipping his finger into the ring. “Er... yeah? Duh! What took you so long?”

The crowd went wild, as John Dory and Branch tackled the happy couple into a troll pile.

“Wooooo little buddy! Welcome to the married club!”

“Way to go you two!”

Darnell, Essence and Quincy came on stage to congratulate the happy pair.

Next came the rest of Kismet, hugging and fist bumping their rainbow haired friend.

John Dory stepped back and watched the scene happily, feeling proud of his baby brother. He really has grown strong, from the tiny strange trolling that use to sleep in his hair.

He glanced around the baying crowd, and felt his heart leap when he saw a group of Country and Rock trolls heading down the street towards them.

At the front of the group was Delta Dawn and Barb.

“Sunset!” John Dory beamed, feeling all the worry and anxiety melt away instantly.

He snagged a giggling Maria Dixie from Trickee, then jumped off stage to start running around the crowd.

“Mommy!” MD gasped, and instantly wiggled from her fathers grasp, before racing ahead.

“Hello my little starlight!” Delta grinned as she held out her hands to catch her daughter as the trolling leaped towards her.

“What a cute pipsqueak.” Barb grinned. “Sup kiddo?”

John Dory panted slightly as he came to a halt before the two. “I was starting to think you’ll miss the party Sunset.”

Delta Dawn gave him a tense smile. “Well Dory Darlin, we have a slight problem.”

Barb nodded with a dark look on her face. “Them superstar fakers that almost put you and your brother on ice? Gone. Broken out of prison months ago.”

John Dory froze, the fingers on his left hand twitching. “G-Gone?”

“As gone as a Adorabull on slaughter day hon. I’m calling for an emergency meeting.” Delta Dawn nodded, her usually bright face filled with worry and concern.

He swallowed hard and glanced towards his brothers, who were all still celebrating away on stage.

Music was playing again, and the whole of Brozone and Kismet were dancing together... carefree and happy.

Velvet’s hungry and crazed eyes flashed across his mind, sending icy cold fear through his body.

Chapter Text

Chapter 7 – Headaches and Engagements

Chaz drummed his fingers on his saxophone, while leaning back against the trunk of the tree.

Close by was an overlook, or a small kind of cliff that gave them a perfect view of the valley below. There nestled between a river and the ocean, was a sprawling city still in the process of being built.

His boss, Elton stood on a jutting rock up ahead, that ever-present smile of his plastered on his face. A smile that sent shivers down your spine... a smile that made you feel like you were in danger.

An awful smile...

“So... this is Trollstopia...” Elton finally said, putting down the sheet of parchment he had been looking over. “Is it nearing completion?”

Chaz looked up, his fingers pausing. “Yeah, word on the street is, the leaders are planning a celebration next week to mark the completion.”

The Jazz troll wrinkled his nose, a mixture of disgust and annoyance on his face. “Apparently, all trolls are invited.”

Elton looked up, his eyes sharp and cold. “A celebration you say? All trolls are invited. How delightful.”

His gaze turned even colder, as that cursed smile of his grew. “And what of the troll that escaped? Has she awakened yet?”

Chaz gulped and suddenly felt hot. He almost pitied the poor kid that got punished for letting that k-pop troll escaped. What was his name again? Veneer?

“According to the intel, she’s still in a coma. Only a matter of time though... want me to deal with it boss?”

Elton held his gaze for a moment, then looked away. “No need. All the pieces of my wonderful puzzle is coming together, don’t you see it Chaz?”

Chaz frowned, feeling that creeping fear that his boss had a knack for making him feel. “See boss? I er...”

The elderly troll gave a low chuckle. “Trollstopia... a celebration for everyone. Such a large gathering like that... who will miss a troll that goes missing? Especially since everyone seems to be keeping an eye on your dear sweet sister.”

“I ah... still don’t get it boss.” The Jazz troll shrugged, before instantly regretting it as Elton spun around, his eyes ablaze despite the happy smile on his face.

“My eldest son! This is the perfect opportunity to take him under the hectic guise of a celebration! By the time the others realise, it’ll be too late.” Elton grinned, the manic look in his eyes making the Jazz troll feel uneasy.

“Right right... wait... is that why you let Jaz and that brat stay with those pop babies?” He asked, surprising himself at the small feeling of concern for his sisters safety. “To take the heat off us?”

Elton turned around to stare at the distance view of Trollstopia. “She’s a suspect, and being watched. Same for Polka. Pity... I had hoped being with her brothers would get her talking, I could have gotten more use out of her.”

Chaz winced at the casual way the old troll had dismissed his own child.

“I’m going to make them pay for what they did.” The elderly troll whispered, just loud enough for Chaz to hear as he looked unsettled. “I’ve worked for so long... all the failed experiments, the losses, the sacrifices. It’ll be worth it in the end when every last Bergen is dead.”

“The... Bergens boss?” Chaz carefully asked, his hand nervously tugging at his chest hair. “Aren’t they er... friends with the pop babies now?”

Elton gave him a cold stare, despite his smile. “Nothing, just the ramblings of an old troll. Let’s head back to base, we have a trollnapping to plan. I’m sure Velvet is looking forward to meeting her friend soon.”

He turned and began to walk away, as Chaz looked towards the city once more. For the first time since working for Elton, he felt a pang of regret.

John Dory groaned as the morning sunlight filtered through his window, waking him up.

Despite going bed earlier that night, the teal haired troll felt as if he hadn’t slept at all. His head was pounding, his throat dry as his stomach rumbled with nausea and hunger.

No way he could be sick again, could he? Dory Sickness Season was over. Yet there was something familiar about the way he felt this morning, like he had experienced this before, but not as bad.

On the other side of the room, Maria Dixie sat up and rubbed her eyes. She yawned, then looked over with a half sleepy smile. “Morning daddy.”

“Morning Pixie.” John croaked, trying to sit up and swing his legs out. Only his left arm gave out, and he flopped back down with a groan.

He didn’t know if it was the room spinning or his head. Maybe even both with the way he was feeling right now.

Ever since Trollabration last week, the teal haired troll hasn’t felt right in himself.

Maria Dixie bit her lip as she climbed out of bed, her eyes filled with concern as she walked over in her blue onesie. “Are you ok daddy?”

John Dory rubbed his face with his hand, as the pounding in his head grew worse. “Y-Yeah, Daddy just needs some coffee I think. Can you tell Uncle Branch to make me some?”

His daughter brightened up and quickly rushed to the door, bumping into Floyd in the process when the pink haired troll opened the door.

The impact actually made him stumble a bit, as Maria giggled and darted away. “Sorry Uncle Floyd!”

“Well someone woke up energetic this morning.” Floyd chuckled as he watched the little trolling disappear around the corner. His expression changed however, when he glanced over at his oldest brother. “Geez John, you look awful.”

“Thanks Flo flo.” John Dory groaned, keeping his eyes closed. “Man... feels like my head is splitting in two.”

The pink haired troll walked over and sat down on the bed, his face full of worry and concern. “Maybe it’s stress? This whole Rageon prison break thing has everyone on edge at the moment. I keep looking over my shoulder, half expecting to see... you know...”

He trailed off, a haunted dark look in his eyes.

John opened his eyes, before reaching out to place his hand on his brothers arm. He was only imprisoned for less then a day, but Floyd had been in that diamond prison for months. Knowing the twins were out was hard on John, but he dread to think how that information affected his little brother.

The Troll leaders had wanted to keep the information private about the break out, but as King Darnell pointed out... the more that knew, the more eyes they had out there keeping watch. Velvet and Veneer wasn’t just a threat to them, but to everyone who had talent.

“Hey... Popstar and all the other leaders have beefed up protection around Pop village, those two wack jobs ain’t getting near you without us knowing about it. We ain’t gonna let them lay a hand on you again Floyd, I mean it.”

Floyd tensed up, then shook his head as he stared. “JD, I’m not worried about me, I’m more worried about you. I saw the way Velvet looked at you. I can’t... John... if she gets you... if she hurts you again, I’ll never live with myself!”

He lowered his head and covered his face, shoulders shaking. “It’s all my fault, I never should have become friends with them in the first place.”

The teal haired troll hadn’t seen his pink haired brother this upset in a long time.

John slowly sat up with great effect, ignoring the pain in his head as he wrapped his left arm around his little brother. “Hey... that’s enough. You shouldn’t be blaming yourself for what that witch did. You didn’t make them suck our talent out of us.”

Floyd lowered his hands, his face still filled with guilt. “I...”

The door swung open, revealing Branch as he stepped in. Cup of coffee in one hand, and MD in the other. He stopped in his tracks, looking between John Dory and Floyd. “Am I interrupting something?”

“We were...” John glanced at Floyd, then sighed and looked back at Branch. “We were talking about Velvet and Veneer.”

Branch's expression changed to one of understanding and anger, not at them but at the pair of Rageons now on the loose. He walked over and held out the cup of coffee to John Dory who took it with thanks, as MD went to sit on Floyd’s lap.

“I can still arrange for us to stay here.” Branch said nonchalantly. “We don’t have to head over to Trollstopia today.”

Floyd sighed, then gave a soft smile. “We can’t bro, everyone is heading over for the celebrations in a few days. As King, you have to be there with Poppy. Plus, Bruce and his family are already there, waiting for us.”

“And I have to be there too, with my sweet Sunset.” John chuckled as he lowered his now half empty cup, feeling much better. “I know you’re worried about protection Bitty B, but I can’t imagine anywhere being more safe then Trollstopia. Like Floyd said, everyone will be there, including all the security from the tribes.”

Branch huffed. “Fine, but I don’t like it.”

“You never do.” Poppy chuckled as she walked into the room with a sleepy Juniper in her arms. “Don’t worry too much Branchifer, Trollstopia is literally the safest place right now. We have Classical and Rock patrolling the skies, and Techno patrolling the seas and rivers.”

“Don’t forget Country and Pop guarding the city boundary.” John Dory chuckled.

“See? Safe.” The queen of Pop giggled before leaning in to kiss Branch on the cheek, whose expression melted under the affection of his wife.

“Can we have breakfast now?” Maria Dixie asked, looking up at Floyd.

Juniper started vibrating in Poppy’s arms at the word breakfast. “Pancakes! Want pancakes!”

“You heard the little lady.” John Dory chuckled before draining the rest of his coffee.

“So ah… you making them?” Branch asked with a hopeful look at his oldest brother. He wasn’t the only one, as Poppy, Floyd and both little girls all turned to watch him hopefully.

John laughed and nodded. “Still can’t get enough of my cooking eh Bitty B? One batch of JD’s famous pancakes coming right up!”

“Dork.” Branch rolled his eyes, a fond smile of his face. “I grew up on your cooking, course I love it.”

Floyd gave the cobalt blue haired brother a sad smile, clearly thinking back on the missed years.

With that, everyone got up and went through their morning routine, before crowding around the breakfast table. Both Maria Dixie and Juniper sat together in identical highchairs, waiting surprisingly well as John Dory flipped pancakes with one hand.

“A shame Delta Dawn couldn’t stay.” Poppy said as she reached over to fix up the pink bow she had tied in her daughter’s hair.

“Yeah.” John sighed softly as he placed a bowl of chopped pancakes in front of Juniper, then another Infront of his own daughter. Both trollings dug in with relish. “My sweet Sunset wanted to make sure security at Trollstopia is top notch. Gonna have to force her to take a vacation after all this blows over.”

“She isn’t the only one.” Branch sighed. “I think everyone needs a break.”

Floyd nodded, then suddenly brightened up. “Like camping to the Neverglade? I really enjoyed it last time we went. Maybe Bruce and his family can join us this time.”

“That’s sounds great!” John Dory beamed as he placed a huge platter of pancakes in the middle of the table. Instantly, everyone began to help themselves to the circular fluffy delights. “Remember last year when Viva pushed Clay into the lake, because he wouldn’t stop talking about camping safety risks and hidden dangers.”

Everyone laughed.

“Or that time when Cooper fell asleep on Branch with his mouth still full of marshmallows?” Poppy giggled as she poured copious amounts of syrup onto her pancakes.

Branch gave an involuntary shiver as Floyd burst out laughing. “Ugh… melted marshmallows and drool is a horrible combination to get out of your hair.  

John chuckled as he sat down. Just as he was about to dig into his own breakfast, he noticed someone watching them through the window. He blinked and lowered his fork, seeing the strange young troll called Polka watching him, her ears pinned back.

How the girl was outside the window like this confused him, since the pod was high up. A closer look revealed Polka was simply clinging to the ledge with surprising strength.

There was just something about the troll that seemed oddly… familiar.

“Hungry?” He asked, smiling as the others looked up confused. It was Branch who saw Polka first, his ears pinning back in alarm.

“What the-!?”

The others stopped to stare too.

John Dory picked up a pancake from the large platter in the middle of the table, and held it out towards the girl who began to sniff. Then with cautious movements, she began to climb through the window with her tail slowly wagging.

Onto the counter, then onto the floor as the strange troll crawled over towards the teal haired troll. Once close enough, she reached out and took the pancake as everyone watched with wide eyes.

She sniffed before taking a bite, then her eyes widen with delight as her tail wagged faster.

“Guess she must have given Jaz the slip.” Floyd said, smiling now that he was over the initial shock of the trolls sudden appearance.

Branch and Poppy glanced at each other with silent knowing looks, as if speaking without words.

Once Polka finished, she crawled over to John Dory and sat back with her legs crossed, waiting patiently. With a grin, he filled a plate with the few leftovers and handed it to the girl, who quite happily began to eat.

“Enjoy Pompom.” John chuckled as he reached out with his left hand, and ruffled the soft fur like hair, which made Polka smile in delight.

“Pompom?” Branch asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Well yeah.” He grinned. “Why not? She small, round and fluffy, like a pompom.”

“It’s cute.” Floyd smiled.

“Don’t encourage the dork.” Branch rolled his eyes, before returning to eating while watching Polka with narrowed cautious eyes.

Once breakfast was finished, Poppy cleaned up Juniper while Floyd volunteered to clean MD. Both trolling had syrup and pancake crumbs smeared all over their faces.

John Dory went to wash up, and was surprised when Polka grabbed a towel to help dry. She smiled brightly, her tail wagging.

It was adorable, and the teal haired troll couldn’t help but feel some kind of sibling like affection for the strange young troll.

A feeling Floyd seems to share as well as he ruffled Polka's hair, while walking by with Maria Dixie balanced on his arm.

There came a knock at the door, before it opened as Jaz nervously poked in her head. “S-Sorry to disturb you, but is... Polka!”

She went to walk in, only to stop as Branch moved to stand in the way, arms crossed. “Don’t you know it’s rude to come barging into someone’s home?”

“Oh ah… s-sorry.” Jaz stammered, her ears pinned back as she cowered slightly.

“Branch, relax.” Floyd quickly said as he walked over, Maria Dixie still in his arms as he forced himself between the two. “She’s my friend, I told her she can come here when she wants.”

Jaz flushed red and raised her saxophone to cover her face.

John Dory bit his lip and glanced at Poppy, who glanced back with the same expression. Jaz the Jazz troll was still a major suspect in what was going on, especially with her brother Chaz being highly suspected of being involved.

Having Floyd developing a close friendship with the troll didn’t sit well with them.

Branch sighed and shook his head. “Fine, whatever.”

Poppy walked over and placed her hand on her husband’s shoulder, as Juniper giggled and climbed into his cobalt blue hair. She smiled at him, before turning her attention to the Jazz troll. “So, Jaz, are you coming to the Trollstopia celebrations too?”

“Y-Yes. Floyd invited me and Polka.” She smiled shyly, lowering her saxophone. “I’ve never been invited before… it’s exciting.”

“Hope you guys don’t mind them tagging along with us.” Floyd smiled, as he stuffed his hands into his pockets.

John Dory glanced at Poppy and Branch, before looking back with a grin. “Awww Flo Flo! Look at you inviting a girl over, my little bro is growing up.”

“JD!” the pink haired trolled flushed red. “S-Shut up, we’re just friends!”

“Uh-huh…” Branch slowly nodded, keeping his arms crossed.

Poppy simply bit her lip.

Once everyone was packed and ready for the journey to Trollstopia, they left the pod one by one to wait by Rhonda, who was still snoozing in her shelter beneath the hanging home.

Poppy and Branch were off to the side, heads together as they spoke in whispers. Little Juniper was still hiding in his hair.

Polka was sat down on the floor, nodding away with a wide eyed expression as Maria Dixie played a little tune on her banjo in front of her. When the trolling finished, the green troll clapped enthusiastically. John Dory smiled at the scene, before glancing over at Floyd and Jaz who were talking amongst themselves with smiles on their faces.

It was clear to anyone that had eyes, that the pink haired troll had a crush on Jaz.

John Dory didn’t know what to make of it. It was clear her brother Chaz was involved with whatever had been happening to the bands and bounty hunters, which in turn make Jaz a huge suspect as well.

Yet… there was something not quite right about it. The girl was timid and shy, and had a certain sadness to her eyes. Could she really be involved?

Yet there was no denying the strangeness in her and Polka’s sudden appearance in Pop village, especially since Jaz seemed to avoid any questions about where she came from or any about her brother.

“Earth to dork, wake up!”

“Owww!” John yelped as someone jabbed him hard in the shoulder, before turning to see Branch standing next to him with a smirk. He hadn’t even noticed his little baby approach. “What was that for? Elder abuse!”

“Oh, shut it.” His brother rolled his eyes before reaching out to grab his prosthetic right arm, examining it. “Any problems lately? I have your spare packed away in Rhonda.”

John Dory chuckled. “Nah, you did a great job with this one Bitty B. I can keep this one on longer now without my arm getting sore.”

Branch nodded as he let go, before glancing over towards Floyd and Jaz. “She makes me nervous JD, I don’t like having her so close to our family. But Floyd…”

“I know.” He sighed.

“Well, they always say keep your friends close, and your enemy closer.” Said a voice behind them.

They turned around and grinned at the sight of Clay, still dressed in his romper suit with a scarf wrapped around his neck. He was bouncing slightly on his feet, clearly excited about something.

A squeal off to the side revealed Viva tackling Poppy and swinging her around, both sisters laughing happily.

“Hey beansprout, how did it go at the golf course?” John Dory asked with a grin as he slung his left arm over his green haired brothers’ shoulders. “I’m guessing by the way V is swinging Popstar around, it went well.”

“Wait, did something happen?” Branch asked, glancing between the two in confusion. At that Poppy gave a loud excited scream, which woke up Rhonda from her nap.

Clay looked smug as he ducked from under his brother’s arm, and readjusted his romper suit. “I proposed to Viva at the golf course, it’s the whole reason I wanted to spend a few days there with her alone before we went to Trollstopia.”

“You what!?”

“You the troll little bro!” John Dory cheered as he lightly punched his brother in the arm, making Clay wince and rub where he was hit. “We totally have to celebrate tonight!”

“Of course we’re celebrating tonight! My sister is engaged! Wooo!” Poppy cheered as Viva continued to swing her around.

“Seriously? Congrats guys!” Floyd beamed, as Jaz smiled shyly behind her saxophone.

“Y-yeah, congratulations.”

Maria Dixie ran over to Clay and raised her arms. “Can I come to the wedding Uncle Clay?”

Clay instantly went teary eyed as he scooped up his niece, hugging her close. “Oh, you’re so adorable, yes you are! Of course you can!”

John Dory chuckled and walked over to rub his left hand over Rhonda’s face plates, making the girl warble in delight. “Well then, we best get going. We have to tell Spruce and his family the good news.”

“And party hard until we pass out!” Viva cheered as she finally put down Poppy and skipped towards Rhonda’s side door, the flower ring on her finger now obvious to everyone who looked at her. “And all the candy we can eat!”

John Dory chuckled as he watched his family filtered inside his beloved armadillo bus, then winced as his head began to pound again. He sighed and rubbed his face, feeling the sudden exhaustion hit him all at once.

Maybe he was coming down with a bug or something.

“J-John Dory?”

He opened his eyes and saw Jaz poking her head out through the side door, watching him with a concerned look. There was something else in her expression too, like guilt maybe?

She drummed her fingers against the side of the doorframe, and bit her lip. “I just… umm…” The Jazz troll hesitated and looked around nervously, before looking back at him. “Umm… thank you for letting me and Polka join. T-That’s all.”

With that, she quickly went back inside Rhonda, leaving John Dory to stand there and blink.

Chapter Text

Chapter 8 – Funtime at Trollstopia

Queen Hamptia of the Furbians ruled over the mountains of snow and ice, far to the north where the sea lay frozen. They were but a simple race, twice the size of a troll, with a bulky build. Their bodies covered in soft downy fur that provided much needed warmth to survive in their cold climate.

Yes, they were simple folk... until he came.

Queen Hamptia had never met anyone like him before, soon learning that he was a species of troll. A pop troll.

Despite being much older, he had charmed her with his music, and words like honey and milk. They mesmerised her, and captured her heart, and even the rest of the Furbians were captivated by him.

This troll didn’t come alone either, but arrived with a group of trolls he claimed to be his friends. Not only did they bring music to her and her people, but visions of a better future.

A vision of a glorious civilisation, and a dream.

So, they listened to the trolls, and they began to build.

Queen Hamptia herself fell in love with the troll who called himself... Elton.

As the years went by, their mountain home slowly took on the form of growing city. Furbians amazing strength made construction an easy task. Materials were sourced from the connections the trolls seem to have with other races.

Morale was at an all time high, especially when Queen Hamptia and Elton became married. A year later... an heir to the throne was born.

An infant girl hatched from the hair of her beloved, who was the perfect blend of Troll and Furbian.

What followed should have been the happiest years of the Queens life, yet her health began to decline with no known cause.

Sickness after sickness...

Within a year of the princess being born, the Queen of the Furbians was on her deathbed.

With her husband holding her hand, and her dear child curled up on her chest, she made a decision.

Queen Hamptia put Elton in charge of her people, until the day their daughter was old enough to take over the throne.

Her dear... sweet... beloved Princess Polka.

The sun was beginning to set when John Dory and the others finally arrived at Trollstopia, the view of the city looked stunning against the backdrop of the ocean.

There were patrols in the sky, as well as the ground and the rivers. Like Poppy had said, security was being taken seriously for the celebration in a weeks time.

Through the large gateway they came, being careful of the other wagons and catterbuses on the bridge that arched over the river.

It was amazing how fast the nature-based city had been built once all the troll tribes got together. In the centre area was the plaza and recreational sections, filled to the brim of trolls of every genre hanging out and having gun.

On the outskirts of the area were surrounded by a ring of homes, all designed for mixed genre couples and families.

From there, large roads branched off that led to the different sectors that represented each tribe. Techno lagoon... Classical Heights... Funk Town... Country Plains... Rock Cave... and Pop Woods.

Rhonda warbled as she zoomed along, soon taking the road that took them into the Pop Troll sector. Here, countless trees filled the area, still in the process of growing. From their branches hung newly made pods all strewn with bright coloured lights. Right at the back, completely out of place was a large wooden home, their final destination.

Bruce and his wife were already waiting outside as Rhonda came zooming towards them, his face lighting up with excitement as the armadillo bus came to a stop. Their fourteen children came charging out of the house, all of them eager to greet their uncles, aunts and cousins.

When Pop Woods was being drafted, Poppy and Branch made sure to have a home built that was big enough for Bruce’s family. None of the other Pop trolls have any objections to this, since most were use to seeing the vacaytioners around.

“Spruce!” John Dory grinned as he left Rhonda first, hopping down the steps and opening his arms wide.

Bruce laughed and walked over, pulling his older brother into a bone crushing hug. “So good to see you again bro.”

“Uncle Bruce!” Maria Dixie giggled as she ran over with Juniper, the two trollings holding hands.

Bruce instantly let go of his brother and scooped them up, letting out a loud bark of laughter. “Look at you two! I swear you’re getting bigger every time I see you girls.”

“Hey bro.” Clay grinned as he walked over with his arm around Viva, whose eyes were sparkling brightly. In fact, both seemed to be rocking slightly in excitement in telling the good news.

John Dory couldn’t help but smile softly as he stepped back and watched. To think he had two brothers engaged now, whose weddings were bound to be big and extravagant. Especially if Poppy had anything to do with it.

“Hey Clay, still looking dapper little bro.” Bruce chuckled as he placed the trollings down. Instantly, Maria Dixie and Juniper ran off to play with their large cousins, who were surprisingly gentle with them. “Something good happened? You and Viva look ready to take off.”

Viva giggled and raised her hand, wiggling her fingers to show off the flower ring. “Say hello to your future sister-in-law. Isn’t it fantasamazing?”

“Oh my goodness! Congratulations you two!” Brandy beamed as she bent down to get closer, as Bruce cheered and grabbed his green haired brother in a headlock.

“Bruce! Get off!”

Poppy rubbed her hands together, cackling madly as Branch rolled his eyes with a fond smile. “I can’t wait to start planning their wedding. It’s going to be the bomb.”

Floyd chuckled as he walked over to Clay, who was now free from the grip of Bruce and rubbing his neck. “So, when do you two plan on getting married?”

“Next year.” Viva giggled. “At the golf course, since it’s so special to us.” Clay nodded as he looked at his fiancé with a love filled expression.

John Dory slung his left arm around Branch’s shoulders. “Why don’t you guys head over to the centre to celebrate? Me and Pixie are gonna take Rhonda to Country Plains and meet up with Sunset.”

“I’ll come with you.” Branch said instantly, casting a look at his wife who nodded. “Maybe we can find Coops and Boom at Funk Town. We’ll all meet up at the centre to celebrate.”

Juniper ran over with Maria Dixie and held out her arms at her father. “Me come too! Me come too!”

“Sure Junebug,” Brance smiled softly.

Bruce grinned as he placed his hands on his hips. “It’ll be great to have everyone together. We’ll see you later then, and try not to get in trouble.”

“Who? Me? Never.” John grinned as he began to head for Rhonda’s side door, as Maria Dixie jumped up into his arms with a giggle.

Branch smirked as he followed with his own daughter in his arms. “I’ll keep an eye on the dork.”

As the others began to walk down the road, that was packed with other trolls heading to the centre for night time fun, John Dory made his way inside Rhonda and sat down in the driver’s seat.

To think they were finally here, in the place everyone had worked so hard to build. Knowing that his whole family was here too, the excitement and joy was undeniable.

Maria Dixie sat down on his lap, and looked up with a happy smile as Rhonda began to speed off. “I can’t wait to see mommy.”

“Me too Pixie.” He grinned, his left hand reaching over to ruffle her puffy teal hair.

Branch walked over to stand next to him, with Juniper in his arms. “Can’t believe this place is real… crazy right? To think everyone is here for the celebrations. Last time we were all together like this, was during Queen Barbs world tour.”

“At least this time, no one is trying to take over all music.” John Dory chuckled, before wincing with a hiss as a sharp pain jolted through his head.

“Daddy?” Maria Dixie looked up with wide eyes. “Are you still poorly?”

Branch looked concerned as he placed his hand on his brother’s shoulder. “Headache?”

“Y-Yeah, been having them all day.” John Dory grumbled as the pain subsided, followed by sudden exhaustion. “I’m fine. I think.”

“Maybe celebrating tonight isn’t such a good idea…”

“I’m fine Bitty B. It’s for Beansprout and V, we can’t skip out on them.” John smiled as Maria Dixie snuggled into his chest. “Not everyday your brother gets engaged.”

His little brother let out an annoyed puff of air. “Fine… but try not to push yourself old man.”

“Aye! Who you calling an old man?” He grumbled, before brightening up as Rhonda arrived at Country Plains. “Hey, look at this place Pixie. Kinda reminds you of home, right?”

Maria Dixie turned her head, seeing all the buildings that were identical in style to the ones at Lonesome Flats. Only difference was, there was no dry sand or dirt… but there was a river that seem to cut through.

She suddenly gasped and pointed. “I see Mommy and auntie Bloom!”

There up ahead, in front of the large building that was built for the leader of the county trolls, was Delta Dawn and her sister Bloom, with Clampers poking out her head from her mother’s hair.

The Sheriff was stood on the patio, hands on her hips as she spoke to the crowd of Country trolls before her with a serious expression.

“I’m guessing they’re taking over the next patrol shift.” Branch said as he gestured towards the country trolls all lined up.

“Yeah, like I said before, Sunset is taking the security seriously here. All tribe leaders are.” John Dory sighed as he pulled Rhonda to a stop. “I saw the patrols earlier when we entered Trollstopia.”

Delta Dawn looked over at the arrival of the armadillo bus and smiled brightly, thought it didn’t hide the tired look on her face. She gestured to the country trolls and said something, then began to make her way over with Bloom as the patrol began to head off to presumably take over the next shift.

“Mommy!” Maria Dixie was the first to leave, hopping off her father’s lap and racing towards the door which swung open. She leaped into her mothers’ arms and snuggled into her chest, as Delta Dawn hugged her back.

“There’s my little starlight.”

John climbed down the steps and held out his left arm, letting his wife walk over and snuggled up as he wrapped his arm around her. “Hey Sunset, working hard I see. You look so tired.”

“Of course she blooming has.” Bloom huffed as she gave her older sister a glare. “She hasn’t stop since we got here, ain’t listen’ to me and all that ta take a break. More stubborn than an adorabull on milking day.”

Delta Dawn rolled her eyes before resting her head on her husband’s shoulder. “It’s me job as sheriff ta make sure everyone here is safe for the big celebrations.”

“Well, you’re going to relax with me now, the whole family is gathering together at the centre.” John Dory smiled softly. “Clay finally proposed.”

“Oh that’s wonderful Dory Darling!” His wife beamed. “I guess a drink or two won’t hurt.”

“Yeehaw! That’s the spirit!” Bloom cheered as she reared up on her back legs. “Well, what are ya waiting for? Let’s go!”

Branch chuckled as Juniper giggled in his arms. “We just need to fetch Coops from Funk Town. Then we’re good to go.”

“Yeah, can’t party the night away without our baby bro.” John Dory chuckled as he let go of his wife to turn towards Rhonda. “So let’s…”

He stopped and began to sway slightly, as exhaustion hit hard, making his world spin. His stomach began to twist in a horrible nauseating way, as his head began to pound painfully.

“Dory Darling?” Delta Dawn asked, her voice full of worry as she placed her hand on her husband’s back. Even Rhonda gave a warble of concern, her eyes full of worry for her owner.

Branch and Bloom came closer, both equally as worried as Maria Dixie’s bottom lip began to wobble.

“I…” John tried to speak as the pain grew worse, then felt his vision fade to black as someone shouted his name.

The centre was alive with activity as trolls of all genres gathered here. Lights were strewn from every post, bringing a cozy glow to the area, which were full of tables and seats that surrounded a huge stage. Off to the sides were stalls that sold drinks and food, as music blared out from speakers fixated to various posts.

Before the stage was a dance floor, where some trolls were dancing the night away, clearly having fun. Bruce’s children were here too, dancing away and chasing each other while being supervised by their father who was happily playing with them, and making sure they didn’t cause any trouble. Polka was amongst them too, dancing and clearly having the best time of her life.

Floyd had never seen anything like this, his eyes drinking in the sights as he sipped from a cocktail drink he had ordered. He glanced at Jaz who sat next to him at their large table, smiling softly at the look of awe on her face.

Brandy lay on the floor behind their table, chatting away happily to Poppy, Viva and Clay who all sat on the opposite side of the table. All of them had drinks and were clearly enjoying the vibes of this place.

“Thanks for inviting us Floyd.” Jaz softly spoke, gaining the pink haired trolls’ attention. “I haven’t seen Polka have this much fun in a long time.”

He chuckled and lowered his drink. “Of course. Wouldn’t seem right if you guys got left behind in Pop village.”

The Jazz troll smiled and lowered her head. Then slowly… her smile faded. “I just wish… I wish my brother could see this, and realise he was wrong about other trolls. Maybe then he wouldn’t…” She trailed off and shrugged her shoulders, before taking a sip of her drink.

Floyd watched her with a sad expression. The troll had told him about a few incidents of her brothers abuse over the years, due to being half siblings. He couldn’t imagine treating any of his brothers like that. Half siblings or not.

“Hey…” he reached out and took her hand, causing Jaz to jolt and blush hard. “You didn’t deserve to be treated like that by your own brother. You’re a better troll then him, by far.”

Jaz blinked, then quickly looked away with a strange and pained expression. “You’re too kind to me Floyd. I’m not use to it… by anyone.”

He gave her hand a squeeze, then hesitated… feeling his stomach give a funny little flop as his heart pounded. Seeking the courage, his laced his fingers through Jaz’s own to hold her hand in a more intimate way.

She blinked and turned her head to look at him, ponytail covering one eye as the other looked at him in surprise, her cheeks burning red.

“I really like you Jaz, you’re different. There’s something about you that I can’t help be drawn too. I… um… I just want to say, w-would you-!?”

“Hey guys!” Poppy said loudly as she slammed her hands on the table, grinning despite the strange look in her eyes as she glanced at their holding hands. Floyd and Jaz jerked and pulled their hands away, looking at the pop Queen in shock. “Enjoying yourselves? That’s great! Your brothers are heading on stage to sing, so go join them!”

“Wha…?” He glanced over and indeed, saw Clay and Bruce on stage as the surrounding trolls clapped and cheered. “I umm, Poppy, I was kinda in the middle of…”

“It’s ok.” Jaz said softly, smiling at him before casting Poppy a nervous glance. “Go sing with your brothers.”

He sighed and got up from his seat, feeling slight annoyance at the Pop Queen. He had been so close to asking out Jaz, something he had been wanting to do for a few days now.

The pink haired troll didn’t know why the Jazz troll had captivated his attention so much. She was nothing like the previous boyfriends and girlfriends he had, nor was she the type he normally went for.

Boris… Rain… all the others… they were all loud and confident, and knew what they wanted. But Jaz, she was quiet and shy. Her confidence was practically in tatters, and yet… there was something about her that Floyd was drawn to.

Something he couldn’t figure out, or put his finger on.

“Hey! Get your butt up here little brother!” Bruce grinned as he squatted down at the edge of the stage. “Let’s show everyone Brozone still has some juice left in them!”

Clay nodded, though he seemed distracted as his eyes roamed around the area as if looking for something. Or someone.

Floyd smiled as he took Bruce’s hand, and allowed his older brother to pull him up on stage. “It’s certainly been a while since we all sang together, especially for a crowd.”

Clay rubbed his left arm, a frown now on his face. “Don’t you think John Dory and Branch should be here by now? It’s been ages…”

The pink haired troll glanced at his brother, then turned around with a sudden sense of foreboding. Clay was right, the others should have been here by now, considering they had Rhonda. Surely it wouldn’t have took them that long, right?

“Don’t worry about it, Johnny is probably getting his sugar on with his wife.” Bruce laughed as he slung his arms over his younger brothers. “Why don’t we sing Higher? Give ‘em a show when they finally arrive with everyone?”

Clay raised an eyebrow. “Higher? Isn’t that a song we never got to officially sing?”

Floyd nodded, remembering the song. John Dory had spent ages on the lyrics, and planned for them to sing it after the end of their tour. Of course, it never got to see the light of day due to… the fall-out.

“I still remember the words and choreography.” He smiled. “I think.”

“Great! Let’s do it.” Bruce grinned with excitement, before glancing at his kids and wife. Floyd had a feeling his older brother wanted to impress his family, more then John Dory and Branch.

“Fine, but only because I want to show my girl how it’s really done.” Clay smiled, pulling at his romper suit before letting go. There was still a slight look of concern in his eyes though.

Bruce laughed and let go to get the music ready, his hand reaching into his long purple hair to pull out an unnamed tape. “Knew it was a good idea to bring this along.”

“Seriously? Is that the tape with our unreleased songs?” Floyd asked, looking amused as his brother handed over the tape to the troll backstage. “Where did you even get that?”

“John Dory.” Bruce simply said as he walked back. “I asked if he still had the tape, and he pulled it out of Rhonda’s storage.”

Clay bit his lip at the mention of his oldest brother’s name as he took position, his eyes roaming across the sea of trolls now watching them all. The lights began to dim, as the excited chatter died down to a hum of anticipation.

Bruce’s kids and Polka all stood on the dance floor to watch them.

“Alright little bros, let’s do this.” Bruce rubbed his hands as he took centre stage.

Floyd rolled his shoulders as the music began to play, then looked towards Jaz. She blushed and smiled as they made eye contact, making his heart do a flip.

“I heard the music through the walls, I felt the bass, uh…

I felt you here before I even saw your face…

No, it ain't the bubbles, it's your wave…

Sugar-coated, triple-glazed!

Down there below us, I see Heaven miles away…

Ain't scared of heights, no gravity in outer space…

On another level, elevate…

How ya fit me, tailor-made!

Stimulated when the tempo changing…

Oh, I can't explain it, tell me, what's this feeling?

It's taking me higher!

Though we can't get higher!

But we keep going up, going up, going up, going up, going up…

Going up, going up, going up, going up, going up!”

The trolls all watching from their tables, or from the dance floor began to clap along. Even those from other genres were joining in, cheering them on. A few bands were now gathering near the back of the stage, clearly preparing to perform their own songs once the brothers were done.

“It's taking me higher!

Though we can't get higher, get much higher…

But we keep going up, going up, going up, going up, going up…

Going up, going up, going up, going up, going up!

Don't know where we're going, but I'm comfortable…

Feeling outta body, you can take my soul…

Light speed energy, straight G-force!

No bland plates when you got hot sauce, that’s fact!

Never had it like that, so bad!

No, I never go back, so fast!

Even if it gon' crash, I'm gon' make it last…

Stimulated when the tempo changing…

Oh, I can't explain it, tell me, what's this feeling?

It's taking me higher!

Though we can't get higher!

But we keep going up, going up, going up, going up, going up…

Going up, going up, going up, going up, going up!”

The cheering got louder, fuelling Floyd’s adrenaline as he danced in time along with his brothers. Seeing Jaz now standing up, watching him intently as she clapped, only spurred him on more, his voice growing louder and stronger.

So lost in the song, he failed to see Bloom raced up to Poppy with an urgent look on her face.

“It's taking me higher, whoa, it's taking me higher!

Though we can't get higher!

But we keep going up, going up, going up, going up, going up…

Going up, going up, going up, going up, going up!

Sky-walking, we elevate…

Oh, tonight you might make me fly away!

Sky-walking, we elevate…

Oh, tonight you might make me fly away!

Let's elevate…

Tonight you might make me, oh…

It's taking me higher!

Though we can't get higher…

But we keep going up, going up, going up, going up, going up…

Going up, going up, going up, going up, going up…

It's taking me higher!

Though we can't get higher!

But we keep going up, going up, going up, going up, going up…

Going up, going up, going up, going up, going up…

Oh, yeah!”

The three brothers posed together at the end, as the trolls erupted into loud cheering and clapping.

“Now that’s how you do it!” Bruce laughed before blowing a kiss at his wife who was swooning.

Floyd chuckled as he made his way towards the steps leading off the stage, moving out of the way for the next group to sing. “I’ll admit, that was fun. Wonder if the others arrived and managed to see us.”

Clay nodded as he followed behind, as trolls clapped when they walked past.

“Wooo that was awesome guys!”

“You guys rock!”

“Brozone! Brozone!”

When they were half-way through the area towards their table, Viva came running towards them with a worried expression. “Oh my gosh you guys! We gotta go, now!”

“Woah woah Viva, what’s up girl?” Clay asked as he reached out, stumbling back slightly when his fiancé ran into his arms. “Did something happen?”

“It’s JD, he collapsed at Country Plains.” Viva quickly said as she pulled back. “He’s been taken to the hospital near the plaza area not far from here. Poppy is on her way there now.”

“What!?”

“Muses… I’ll help Brandy gather up the kids and get them back to our accommodation. I’ll meet you guys at the hospital after.” Bruce said quickly, his happy carefree expression now filled with worry and concern.

Clay growled as his ears pinned back. “Dammit, I noticed he was looking a bit peaky today, but I didn’t say anything. He was acting normal!”

“He was suffering with headaches this morning.” Floyd sighed, rubbing a hand over his face. “We though it was due to stress…”

The happy mood over the group was now completely gone, replaced with anxiety and worry. Their oldest brother seemed completely normal today, apart from that morning. Or had the teal haired troll simply hid it due to Clay’s engagement?

“Go on, I’ll meet you guys over there.” Bruce said, before rushing off towards his kids still dancing away on the dancefloor.

Clay nodded and took Viva’s hand before rushing off. “We can take a catterbus to the hospital.”

“Hold on, I need to get…” Floyd turned towards the table they had been sitting at, and trailed off. Jaz was gone.

A quick glance towards the dance floor showed that Polka was gone too. No matter where he looked, he couldn’t see the two at all.

Just where had they gone?

“Floyd! Come on!” Clay yelled.

He bit his lip, before turning to follow after his green haired brother.

Chapter Text

Chapter 9 – Not One, But Two.

Jaz watched Floyd approach the stage to where his brothers stood waiting, before nervously glancing at the Pop Queen who was still smiling sweetly at her.

She had the feeling the pink troll had interrupted them on purpose, stopping Floyd from confessing. Well... she believed he was about to confess, her heart still beating fast from her expectations.

Poppy took a seat and laced her fingers together, now looking serious. “Do you love Floyd?”

“W-What?” She gasped, her cheeks burning red as she lowered her head. Her right hand twitched and moved to touch her Saxophone propped up against her chair, seeking comfortable.

“I need to know, do you love him?” The Pop Queen asked again, her voice and expression going soft. “Because I'm worried, you’re going to end up hurting him.”

Hurt him?

“I would never!” Jaz gasped. “Floyd is really important to me, he... he’s the first friend I ever made beside Polka. He...” She trailed off and blushed even more, her eyes seeking out the stage to watch the troll in question.

Poppy gave a sad smile. “Yet you still won’t tell me where Chaz is, or who he’s working for?”

Jaz looked back as music began to play, squirming slightly as the guilt began to eat away inside her. “I d-don’t know... I haven’t seen him for weeks, and he... he won’t tell me.”

Oh muses, how she hated lying. The Jazz troll wanted nothing more then to tell the truth, to warn them all... but the consequences for betraying her brother, for betraying him...

Truth was, she was a coward.

Poppy studied her for a moment, then nodded curtly and stood up. “Alright.” Then she walked back towards Brandy and Viva.

Jaz sank in her chair, before glancing towards the stage. Seeing Floyd dance and sing with such a happy elated expression on his face, chased away the negative feelings as she smiled softly.

Do you love him?

Did she? It was true her brother never allowed her to have friends, except for Polka due to being the daughter of their boss. Floyd was her first friend she ever made without her brother being around.

There was just something about him, be it his personality or the way she saw the familiar sadness in his eyes. She couldn’t deny there was a connection, a spark... no matter how subtle it was.

Jaz found herself standing up at one point, eyes fixated on the pink haired troll as she clapped along with everyone else.

“Queen Poppy! It’s urgent.”

The Jazz troll glanced over and saw a country troll racing over to the Queen of Pop, who looked surprised along with her sister Viva.

“Bloom? What’s wrong? Where are the others?”

“Oh my stars! It’s Dory, he gone collapsed. My sistah and yeh husband Branch is taking him to that there fancy hospital.” Bloom said breathlessly. “King Branch has the kiddies, and sent me to fetch yeh.”

Viva looked horrified as she covered her mouth with her hands. Poppy froze up slightly, then turned and grabbed onto her sisters’ shoulders, a determined look on her face.

“I’m going to head over now, can you let the others know and meet us Vi?”

Viva nodded frantically. “Of course!”

Bloom rolled her shoulders. “Hop on Pop Queen, I can git yeh there faster than any Catterbus.”

Poppy nodded and hugged her sister tightly, before letting go to climb up on the country trolls back.

Jaz watched the two race off, feeling a sense of dread. If John Dory was ill... then that made him vulnerable. She knew full well that her brother and his boss had their sights set on the teal haired troll.

What could she do? What should she do?

Polka suddenly appeared out of nowhere, landing on the table before her and knocking over her drink in the process. The action caused a few nearby trolls to glance over.

“Polka!” she gasped, jumping in surprise.

The young troll simply stared at the Jazz troll, then looked towards the direction where Poppy and the Country Troll had vanished too. Her tail was lashing from side to side in agitation.

“What’s wrong, do you want to go too?” Jaz asked. “I don’t know if that’s a... hey!”

Polka had growled and grabbed her head, then jerked it to the side before pointing. Her teeth were bare, yet her eyes showed a mixture of anger and fear.

In the distance was a familiar looking old troll, walking towards the area with the assistant of a cane.

Pale yellow skin, and wild wispy grey hair with streaks of orange... it couldn’t be... could it?

Edward. One of her boss’s so-called friends. Why was he here?

With a gulp of fear, she grabbed her Saxophone and began to make her way over to the troll. Out of all the trolls that were friends with her boss, Edward was the one she hated the most.

He was manipulative, narcissistic and a complete utter pervert.

Polka trailed behind her, her ears and tail low. She hated Edward just as much as Jaz did.

“Ah... I was hoping to be the one to find you.” Edward grinned, once the two were close enough. He gestured with his hand, before starting to walk in a different direction. “Come, we need to talk.”

Jaz nervously hugged her saxophone, then glanced at Polka before following. “T-The one? Is there more here?”

“A few.” The old troll chuckled. “Eleanor is here too, somewhere. That old hag can move fast despite her age. Hah!”

They crossed the road, now heading towards the residential areas. The area was pretty empty, since most trolls were out enjoying the night.

“And um... w-why are you here?” Jaz stammered, glancing at Polka who was now clinging to her arm.

Edward stopped, and with a wide grin, gestured towards the alleyway with his cane. “We’re proceeding with the Extraction Plan. Now go on, why don’t you tell me everything you’ve learned here while we wait for the others. No lying now, or I’ll have to punish you.”

He leered at her, making the Jazz Troll shudder in disgust and fear.

Jaz trembled as the older troll grabbed her shoulder, and roughly pushed her down the alleyway. Polka growled and snapped her teeth, only to whimper and flinch when Edward flashed her a grin and slammed his cane down on the floor.

“Going to interrogate the poor lass, Edward?” said a voice behind them.

They turned to see a pale pink troll with wispy grey hair walking up to them with an energetic spring to her step. “Hello Jaz dear, it’s been a while.”

“H-Hello Eleanor.” She stammered.

“Just in time to join us.” Edward grinned, placing both hands on his cane. “Amazing place isn’t it, not as good as our home though. Hahaha!”

“Indeed.” The old pink troll beamed, hands on her hips. “I was hoping to see my two boys again. Ah well… won’t be long now.”

The older male troll smirked before turning his attention back to the Jazz troll. “Now then, let’s continue, shall we?”

Both trolls took her by the shoulders, and dragged Jaz and Polka further into the darkness of the alleyway.

Floyd… I’m so so sorry… I wish I was braver.

I’m a coward…

John Dory groaned and opened his eyes, noticing at first that he was lying in an unfamiliar bed. Not hard, but not soft either. The next was the strong smell of herbs, like the medicinal kind. A lamp softly glowed above him, hanging from the ceiling. The room itself was plain yet oddly cozy, with the window showing the early morning view of the river.

Where was he?

He tried to sit up, but pain jolted through his head as nausea hit his stomach, making the teal troll lay back down with a groan.

“I see you’re awake Mr Dory.”

John glanced over as the room came into better focus, noticing a Techno troll standing by his bed, holding a clipboard. She was dressed in a white overcoat, a doctor. So, this place must be…

“You’re at the Trollstopia hospital, and I’m Dr Moray.” The Doctor smiled in a friendly manner. “You gave your family quite the scare Mr Dory.”

A scare? What… oh. Now he remembered. He had been at Country Plains, ready to leave in Rhonda with the others.

“Muses… I fainted, didn’t I?” He grumbled, feeling crestfallen. It was Clay’s and Viva’s day to be in the spotlight for their engagement, and he had to ruin it by fainting. Some big brother he was.

“Not surprising really, your body is under tremendous stress and strain at the moment.” Dr Moray said as she tapped her clipboard with a pen. “It’s extremely rare for Trolls of your age to be expecting. Especially for twins.”

John Dory froze, his eyes going wide as his jaw dropped. Then he plunged his left hand into his hair, instantly his fingers brushed over the smooth shells of not one, but two eggs that were half way producing out of his scalp.

Holy muses… no wonder he had been feeling exhausted and ill for the last few weeks. He was having twins! And they seem to be taking longer than Maria Dixie had.

“Trolls reproduction normally ceases to function past the age of forty, due to the tremendous strain the development can put upon the body. You’re in a very delicate state at the moment Mr Dory, and at high risk too. I recommend you stay here in this private room under close monitoring, until the detachment process.”

“R-Right, ok doc. Bed rest, I can do that.” John Dory nodded. “Thanks.”

Dr Moray smiled. “I’ll have breakfast sent up now that you’re awake. It’s important to eat and drink plenty at the moment. I’ll let your family know too, they were here not long ago, but left to get something to eat.”

He watched the Techno troll go, before glancing towards the ceiling. Twins… he and his lovely Sunset were going to be parents again despite believing it was too late, and his little Pixie is going to be a big sister.

“Muses, you guys have terrible timing.” John Dory chuckled, feeling his heart swell with love for the new growing life. “Guess you didn’t want to miss the big celebrations huh?”

There were loud shuffling sounds, then a mixture of voices before the door swung open. In came Poppy and Branch, both looking tired but excited as they rush over to the bed.

“JD!” Poppy leaned over and hugged the teal troll tightly, her head on his chest. “Congratulations!”

She then stepped back and allowed Branch to get closer, who was grinning from ear to ear as he gently punched his brother shoulder. “Twins, eh? As ever, your timing sucks, you big dork.”

John Dory grinned, before jumping slightly when Delta Dawn came bursting into the room. “Oh, my stars! Are yeh alright Dory Darling? Need anything?”

“I’m fine.” He smiled, holding out his left hand for her. “Just excited about our little ones. Where’s Pixie?”

His wife walked over and took his hand, giving it a squeeze. “She’s with her cousins Juniper and Clampers. Bloom is taking care of them, and with be swinging by later with ‘em.”

She glanced at his hair, eyes full of wonder. “Can I…?”

John grinned and let go of her hand, bending his head down a bit. Instantly, Delta Dawn parted his hair to reveal the two eggs producing from his scalp, as Branch and Poppy leaned in closer with excited expression on their faces.

Pale blue with copper speckles, tuffs of scarlet hair producing from the top. The same colour as Delta Dawn’s hair.

“Oh my… they’re beautiful Dory Darling.” His wife sniffled, going teary eyed. “I thought it was too late for us to have another, and we ended up being gifted with two!”

“You know what this means.” Poppy grinned wildly as she clapped her hands together, a manic glint in her eyes. “I’m throwing you the biggest party ever when we go back to Pop village. Twice the kids, twice the awesomeness.”

Branch chuckled and shook his head, as he wrapped his arm around his wife’s shoulders. “Cooper and his family are on their way to see you. Our little bro is pretty excited about being an uncle again.”

“He isn’t the only one.” Clay grinned as he walked in Viva, both looking thrilled and happy. “Congratulations you two!”

Bruce was right behind, beaming away as Floyd walked next to him with a grin. They all crowded around the bed.

“Hey bros.” John Dory grinned, sitting up slightly. “Can you believe it? Twins! No wonder I’ve been feeling rough lately.”

“Yes, and you’ll be staying in that bed until they detach.” Delta Dawn said as she leaned against the edge of the bed, her arm around her husband. “Understood?”

“Yes Sunset.” He instantly said.

Bruce laughed, his hands on his stomach. “You gave us all quite the scare last night. Couldn’t believe it when the doctors told us you were expecting twins. Guess I have a good chance in convincing Brandy to give me another kid.”

Clay gave his purple haired brother an appalled look. “Bruce… you have fourteen kids already.”

Bruce shrugged with a smirk and a waggle of his eyebrows, as the others laughed.

Everyone then settled around the bed, either sitting on the bed itself or grabbing chairs to sit as they talked, joked and fuss over John Dory. At one point, a troll nurse walked in with a tray of breakfast for the teal troll, along with a tall cool glass of berry juice.

As he ate, he couldn’t stop smiling at having his family with him. A family that was ever growing, especially with his miracle twins.

Things got even better when Cooper, King Darnell and their parents, Quincy and Essence arrived, all giving their congratulations and fussing over John who by now, was blushing at all the attention.

An hour later, the room really got crowded with the arrival of Bloom and the kids. The moment she stepped inside, Maria Dixie and Clampers practically flew from her hair and onto the bed.

“Daddy!”

“Pixie!” John Dory beamed as he held out his arm, hugging his daughter tightly as she collided with his chest.

“Glad you’re feeling better Uncle Dory.” Clampers smiled, looking excited as her eyes went to his hair. “Can I see ma cousins? Please!”

“Now now Clampers. Remember what I said? You have to be gentle with yeh uncle at the moment.” Bloom said as she placed her hands on his hips.

“Yes momma…”

Juniper who had been in the country trolls’ arms, was now being held by Poppy. The Pop Queen kissed her forehead before looking up. “We have to get going, but we’ll be back later JD.”

“Royal duties and all that.” Branch sighed. “Poppy is needed to iron out some of the plans for the ceremony and party next week, and I’m needed to make sure everything is in order with some of the other leaders. Kinda wished I never mentioned about being a mechanic.”

“Oh, come on Bitty B, we all know you like showing off your skills.” John Dory smirked. “Don’t forgot the blowtorch incident.”

Branch turned red as Poppy and Cooper burst out laughing. “S-Shut it you!”

“Blowtorch incident?” Clay frowned in confusion, as the others looked just as baffled.

John went to open his mouth, but the cobalt blue haired troll simply slapped a hand over his mouth. “Not a word.”

“Don’t need to, pretty sure we have the incident on video.” Cooper smirked as Branch snapped his head towards him with a glare.

“Ok, that’s enough.” Poppy giggled as she grabbed her husband’s arm and began to drag him towards the door. “See you later JD, and make sure you rest!”

John raised his hand and waved, as the other bid their goodbyes as well.

Then he settled back down with a wide smile, enjoying himself as his beautiful wife began to brush her fingers through his hair.

Being here with his family, anticipating the arrival of his twins… nothing could be more perfect then this.