Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Jimmy locked his car and began running towards the school building, he couldn't believe how his meeting had made him half an hour late for pick up, he's definitely bring Gem her favourite chocolates next time for making her wait this long.

Eventually he followed the familiar path up towards the entrance doors, the colourful room was empty as expected with no one sat at or behind the front desk. "um... Gem? Cleo? are you here?" He decided to wait a moment before trying the other reception area, looking at the artwork on the walls which the kids had made. he saw the one his Revvy had drawn and it brought a smile to his face, it was of when they had brought her to the beach to teacher her to swim.

The sound of a door opening grabbed his attention, followed by a very excited "PAPA!!!!!" he smiled and kneel down to properly to catch the small body that came speeding towards him almost knocking him over in the process before he regained his balance.

"Gem I am so sorry my meeting ran way over but i-" a small unrecognisable chuckle brought his attention back to the door where a new face stood smiling at the father and daughter duo, and Jimmy could feel his breath slipping away from him because oh void, they were drop dead gorgeous.

And in that moment Jimmy with his few working braincells could only manage to say "your not gem?" which came out more like a question. Another giggle this time from his Revvy broke his trance "silly papa that not Miss Gem, she had to go at lunch time. This is Mr Scott!" she tugged at his arm to lead him towards Mr Scott.

He offers his hand to the the beautiful man "Jimmy Rev papa nice you meet you" he takes his hand and Jimmy couldn't help but notice his soft and cold his hands were.

"nice to meet you, so this is the famous 'papa' you've been telling me all about Rev" Jimmy felt as if his stomach started doing star jumps knowing that his daughter had been talking to her beautiful teacher about him. "all good things I hope" he say now incredibly nervous at what Rev has told him.

"yeah just how your so funny, and kind and a really good swimmer. She has told me you was the one that taught her how to swim" Jimmy could feel his face getting warmer at every word Scott described him as, it must have shown when Scott started laughing saying how he was only teasing him.

Jimmy couldn't help but laugh as well, Scott's laugh was really contagious. "again I'm so sorry about my lateness, my meeting ran way over than expected" but Scott just waved him off saying it was fine "Gem warned me that you might be late, and besides I'm on lock up duty tonight anyways no worries" he looked towards Rev who was smiling up at him.

He crouched down to her level and he gave her a head pat "besides the extra help and company was nice, she did really well on helping me clean up, I didn't even ask her too" which made Rev beam with pride.

"Now if only she was this enthusiastic about cleaning her room" Jimmy commented causing Rev to puff her cheeks out, Scott to laugh at her embarrassment.

"I'm sure it can't be that bad, you're normally very good at keeping the classroom and your area tidy" she agrees that it isn't as bad as her papa says it is.

"Speaking of" Scott stands up and whips the dirty off his jeans "I'll be sending it over email but you might want to send Rev in with a spare change of clothes that you wouldn't mind getting dirty, the kids are making their monster on Friday"

Jimmy nodded taking a mental note before Rev chimed in talking about her monster idea. He smiled as he watched how Scott interacted with Rev and he could help but notice how his heart flutter at the sight.

They talked some more about how Scott's normal stays in the back with the kids cleaning and entertaining them until someone came to pick them up, he was only covering for Gem because of her dentist appointment.

Soon Scott was at the door waving the two goodbye going back to locking up the classroom. "Papa do you like Mr Scott?" Rev asked on the way back to their car "he seems nice, why sweetheart?"

He strapped her into her car seat before waiting for her to answer "because I want you to like him!" He laughed at her excitement putting on his own seatbelt and turning on the car's engine.

"Oh yeah?" He looked at her through the rearview mirror "Yeah! He's the best! He really nice and smart and funny and he's really good at drawing and painting!"

"Yeah?" He raises a brow at how highly his daughter talks about him. "He's also very pretty, do you think his pretty papa?" She looks directly at him through the mirror waiting on his answer.

He feels his face heat up "y-yeah. I think his very pretty sweetheart, why are you asking?" Which she just shrugs at, happy that one of her parents meet her favourite person.
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That morning as Tango drove Rev to school he could wait to meet this 'Mr Scott' his partner and daughter have been not stop going on about.

It was getting rather annoying how much they brought him up, at first he was glad the teacher was making school enjoyable for his little girl. It had even been funny to tease Jimmy about his little crush on to so called beauty at school.

But now it all he heard and he wanted to meet the man once and for all. So he offered to take Rev that day and let Jimmy have a lie in before his shift this afternoon. In the car he thought back to when Jimmy first met him.

Tango couldn't wait to get home, work wasn't bad just very draining, he just to eat something and cuddle up watching a good movie with the two best people in his arms.

Had hadn't expected his daughter jumping into his arms talking about 'monsters and Mr Scott'. He eventually got he to calm down and carried her to the kitchen where Jimmy was working on dinner.

He sat her down on one of the kitchen island chairs, just as Jimmy got their plates ready. Tango gave him a peck on the cheek before washing his hands to help when he asked Rev about her day.

She when on a rant about her day, show she was making her monster design today and how Jimmy met Mr Scott.

"Mr Scott? Is he new?" Tango asked, noticing the red appearing on his cheeks "He's the best daddy!!! He so funny and smart!! Papa liked him didn't you Papa??" Rev looked at him then at Jimmy expectantly.

"No he isn't, he normally waits in the back with the kids at pick up but Gem had an appointment so he took over, though I didn't ask about Cleo" Rev chimed in by saying Miss Cleo had to go help the big kids, which explained her absence.

"He was really nice, seems to be one of Rev's favourites their she's been none stop about him since I picked her up" he smiled looking at her doodles, which seemed to have improved quite a bit.

"He teaches me and Amy how to draw look! Look! He taught me how to draw a rose!!" She lifted her paper to show them the flowers she had been drawing.

They were both amazing she has been showing some real improvement but this was impressive skill for a girl her age, in the middle of their complement Jimmy asked "did Mr Scott show you how to draw this?" To which she told them he did because he's very good and how he loves flowers.

Tango locked his car checking they had everything before walking to the front door, they were earlier than expected but Gem was still there to welcome them.

They were chatting about what's new with them before Rev tugged on Gems skirt asking about Mr Scott, She laughed saying he had gone to get get them coffee and breakfast resulting in her pouting until Gem said her friends were waiting for her and she'll call her when he arrives.

"She must really like him then, she's been nonstop talking about him all week since Jimmy meet him" Tango mentioned. "They both speak so highly of him and I just want to thank him for teaching Rev those drawings tricks she really improved"

Gem laughed saying he could thank him now pointing towards the door, Tango followed to where she was pointing at an absolutely stunning person making their way through the door.

The way his eyes lit up when he saw Gem had Tango lose any breath he had "sorry Gem they have your normal so I got you a brownie instead" Void, Jimmy never mentioned his accent in his 'totally not crushing on our daughters cute teacher' rants.

"Scott we were just talking about you, Tango was just talking how well you've helped Rev in improving her art skills" she elbowed his side which gets him to stop staring at the pretty blue haired teacher.

His blush doesn't leave however when sees the way Gem is looking at him, like she's just completed a mission.

Tango's then started talking about how Rev has been much more happier since she joined the class, especially with Scott's help and encouragement.

"It really thanks you really, I'm she's enjoying school" he smiles at Scott somehow failing to see the tips of his ears turning pink as well as his cheeks.

Scott looked away for a moment before daring to meet Tango's eyes again with a smile "well I can't take all the credit your daughter is such a beautifully kind girl with a gift when it comes to art. She was actually the one to ask me to teacher her how to draw, which really inspired her friends, because of her I started drawing again" Scott quietly confessed that last part.

And before Tango could ask for any further details a woman's voice, followed by a "MR SCOTTTTTTTTTTTTYTTTTTTTTTTTTT!!!!!!"
Made everyone jump, they only had a few seconds to process a little Rev speed towards Scott.

Lucky just as she tackled his legs Tango was able to catch him as Gem grabbed the hot coffee and food before anyone was scolded.

Scott managed to mumble a quick thanks, before he was tugged back by the little wrecking ball in the room where a choir was chatting "MR SCOTT, MR SCOTT"

Tango handed Gem Revs lunch and spare clothes for their activities today, when Gem ask what Tango thought of Scott- more specifically if he thought Scott was cute.

Tango's brain hadn't even caught up to the question before he agreed he was, soon upon realisation quickly prompted him to stutter out some lame excuse that both Scott and his daughter were cute together.

Gem teased him some more before he flipped her off ignoring her shouting how there was kids nearby, all he could think about was the blue haired boy that had managed to capture his family's hearts.

He couldn't wait to talk to him again.

Chapter Text

Moonlight> Are either of you free to come help me out at the shop?
Moonlight> It's be super busy today and now I need to restock x
Firefly> Yep be there soon!! Xx
Cannery> Give me 5 minutes and I'll be on my way x

Scott smiled at how soon his boyfriend's answered him, and put his communicator down next to his hat before making his way down to his basement, box in hands.

As he was organising his herb and ingredient shelf he heard the bell above his door ring and heavy boots colliding with the wooden floor.

"Scott, Love? Are you here?" He heard from above, yelling to his boyfriend he asked if he could bring some boxes with him when he came down.

Receiving no answer he thought Tango didn't hear him until he made his way downstairs and placed the boxes on the ground. Walking behind Scott, he wrapped his arms around his waist and pulled him in until Tango could rest his chin on Scott's shoulder, stealing a few cheek and jawlines kisses in the process making Scott laugh.

"Stop, I have to get this shipment sorted and make sure they haven't forgotten anything again" Scott chuckled as he pushed a now pouting Tango.

"Fineeeeee, only because the sooner we get this done the sooner we can cuddle and make out" he said with a smirked, Scott just rolled his eyes. "What do you need me to do?"

"If you could bring more boxes down that'd be great then we can start putting everything away" Scott suggests

"Yes sir!" Tango salutes before walking upstairs.

The two soon have most of the boxes down now, chatting about their days and what they could have for dinner later. Scott was still putting away ingredients while checking on his new batch of potions he was brewing in the corner, while Tango was making sure the ingredients that needed to be stored in hot or cool temperatures were put away correctly.

"How's your leg been today? I know you said it was a bit sore and red earlier" Scott ask since Tango had gotten a new tattoo on his leg that morning.

"It's all good nothing to worry about moonlight, when we get home I'll be able to take the wrap off and show you both. I know you're both wondering what I got" he smiled at the memory of his boyfriends asking him to send a picture once he was done however, he refused wanting to surprise them which results in them becoming annoyed knowing how they both hate to wait.

At that moment the bell once again rung alerting them that they're other boyfriend or one of Scott's staff was here, which was unlike since Scott had told them he would be doing the inventory for this shipment.

"That must be Jimmy" Scott commented as he began walking back upstairs to grab more boxes.

Once up there Jimmy smiled pulling him into a hug and gave him a peck on the cheek before asking what he could do. Scott told him to just take some boxes down and to put it way onto the shelves, if they could fit any more on to just leave the boxes under the shelves.

Jimmy nodded and made his way down with some boxes, while Scott went to grab some books that he had left in the meeting room to bring downstairs.
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After messaging the shipment company that he had received ever, he summoned a little shadow to carry the books while he carried his boyfriend's drinks he just made for them.

Jimmy, once he spotted Scott coming down towards them, grabbed a small nearby table moving it closer to the middle for Scott to put the drinks down.

"So why have we been dragged into doing jobs when you can summon these guys to help you?" Jimmy raised a brow as he took a sip of his drink.

"Because, pretty bird, these guys are only able to be summoned alone or in groups no bigger than 5. Plus as good as they are with doing tasks they aren't the brightest and they can only carry the same amount of weight as a small child, so this would have taken much longer to do" Scott explained adding more ingredients to his cauldron.

"And here I thought you just wanted some handsome boyfriends to help you"

"Oh believe me I enjoy a bit of eye candy but if I keep staring at you two I'll have so nasty cavities" Scott chucked as Jimmys cheeks turned a lovely red shade.

Tango voice got both of their attention "hey moonlight, what this on the floor?" Choosing to ignore the pink also on his cheeks Scott made his way over to see what he was on about.

On the floor was a spell circle drawn in white and purple chalk.

In Scott shops basement was where he kept he's potions ingredients, extra potions and enchanted/curse items. But he also had his potion corner with his cauldron, a door straight to the witches market and what him and his staff liked to call the spell corner.

For what ever reason most of their summoning and spells were successful in this particular corner so they just continue to preform them there.

"Oh, that!" Scott said upon realisation "that was a curse we started with this ancient book Cleo managed to get her hands on, we never finished it and kinda forgot about"

"What was it?" Tango asked curiously before clarifying "the curse I mean. What was it meant to do?"

"It was called 'sirens song' basically it was meant to  give some the ability to influence peoples thought, feeling and actions like a siren would when they sing, but we ran out of the specific candle" he explained.

"I said I'd offer to be the one to test it and then we'd try someone else to see if they had then same reaction and if people responded differently"

"That doesn't sound like a bad thing to be cursed with" Tango commented, Jimmy looked equally surprised at this so called curses he thought it sounded cool.

Scott laughed at how innocent and naive his boyfriend were to spells and curses. they never really understood what Scott was on about when he talked about the stuff that happened at work or explained what his was doing to them whenever he gave them blessings or positive spells.

Boy he knew his boys were like little puppy and were just happy when he was or when he gave them attention. Adorable really, just another reason this black cat fell for these two dorks.

"Curses aren't always necessary bad things, just like how blessing aren't always good, I've cursed myself with things like protection and positive attraction" Tango repeated 'positive attraction' with a wiggle if his eyebrows, earning him some groans and eye rolls.

"Do you have the candles for it now?" Jimmy asked "We do. How come, you offering yourself to me hun?" Scott asked sultry, which caused both boys to shiver and become as red as tomatoes.

Jimmy stumbled over his words before saying how he wouldn't mind letting Scott try the curse on him. When asked if it was sure Jimmy assured him it was because he trusts Scott won't hurt him, receiving a shy smile from the witch.

Tango placed and lit the candles while Scott positioned Jimmy and gave him a shell to hold, before rereading over the instructions properly making sure everything was correctly done.

Tango offered to hold the book while Scott washed his hands in salt water and held Jimmys head. He muttered the spell and felt his hands heat up before cooling back down when he finished.

Both Scott and Tango were learning over Jimmy looking for any physical changes, they asked if he felt anything different she shook his head.

"Try speaking or asking us something?" Tango suggested.

Jimmy thought for a moment for asking if they could have pizza tonight, as soon as he spoke however his boyfriends were looking straight at him with what seemed to be a hazed look in their eyes.

Jimmy was worried because Scott interrupted him "w-well I guess it worked then" he shyly muttered Tango nodding in agreement.

"Your actual voice is the same but it sounds..."

"Sexier" Tango finished. "It's like your morning voice"

Oh. Jimmy understood now, he knew he already had a similar power over his boyfriends already but this is too good not to use.

"So, sexy?" Which he laughed at his partner's reactions, almost missing Tango mumbling about his laugh being 'worse'.

"How long does he have this power for?" Tango asked stretching as he stood up.

"It should be back to normal by morning tomorrow" Scott said helping Jimmy up as well.

"Well, I think we got most of the work done for today, let's go grab that pizza yeah?" Jimmy asked heading for the stairs before smirking and looking back at the two boys still watching him like moths watching a light source move.

"Maybe we can treat our little witch to some dessert after, what you say Tango?" He didn't give him a change to answer leave the two in a flustered mess behind.

As he reached the top he heard a faint "JIMMY!!!!" Causing him to laugh, yeah this was gonna be fun.

Chapter Text

Scar was awake by something crash to the floor, he rubbed his face with his free hand before grabbing the communicator to check the time.

2:36am it read.

Scar sighed for look down at the parrot hybrid snuggled up to him, he looked cozy so scar moved him ever so carefully in hopes not to wake him, just enough for his arm to be free.

"Scar?" He muttered sleepily eye looking up at equally sleep once's.

"Don't worry love go back to sleep" Scar brushed his hair till Grian snuggled back down.

Scar made his way down to their basement choosing to ignore the bomb sight of a kitchen, awake Scar can deal with that.

"No no no no, oh goddess, oh no" Scar following the sound was meet to a panicked Mumbo on his knees under his work bench searching for something while a small fire sat on top of his work bench.

Panic sat in and Scar grabbed the one of the fire extinguishers that sat near the entrance, putting out the fire.

"Jeez Mumbo, I knew you were hot but we don't wanna be burning the house down, please" he smiled down at the man still in the ground.

"Scar, what are you doing awake?" Mumbo asked sheepishly.

"Well i thought the roof was collapsing from the loud crash coming from down here" Mumbo apologised explaining he had bumped into a table which knocked over a pile of redstone.

"Ok now a question for you mr Mumbo Jumbo, why aren't you in bed with us?"

Mumbo didn't answer for a moment, which gave Scar a chance to see the state of him. His normally neatly combed hair was sticking up in all directions, he had discarded his suit jacket over a chair, with his shirt stained in redstone and untucked, while his tie he was messing with hung undone around his neck.

He was fiddling with his tie, his hands were stained black and red with a few plasters.

"Something wasn't going right on one of my farms and I found some water had gotten into a key component. So I thought to save money and as a good challenge that I could fix it myself AND, I'm so close I just..." he became trailing off realising Scar wasn't to pleased with his answer.

"And those dark circles under you eyes are telling be you definitely need sleep, and DON'T you try get out of this" Scar held a finger in front of him to stop Mumbo protesting "plus you'll be able to think more clearly after a good nights rest. I've also been told Grian gives excellent cuddles when tired "

Mumbo stayed quiet for a minute before sighing "he does give good cuddles, but I honestly don't know if I could fall asleep now"

Scar extended a hand out, which Mumbo took, and lead him up stairs " you Mr" he pointed at Mumbo's chest, then towards there spare downstairs bathroom "are going to get cleaned I'll bring you some clothes ok"

Mumbo knew he didn't have a say so he made his way to the bathroom.

Scar grabbed some fresh pjs from the laundry and towel, which was still was still warm from being in the tumbler, putting them in the bathroom (without peaking, he is a gentleman after all!) And started making some chamomile tea.

Soon Mumbo came into the kitchen and thanked Scar for the tea. " 'm sorry I woke you up"

"No. No, don't start that now. I'm going to sound very hiyp-hiypo... hippo-"

"hypocritical"

"Yes! That, but that's why we work well together. We get so caught up with our ideas that we forget to take care of ourselves, but we're really good at taking care of each other, we balance each other out" Scar explain, earning a grateful smile from Mumbo, which he returned.

The two sat in comfortable silence until quiet footsteps brought their attention to the small body snuggly wrapped up in a blanket, leaning on the door for support.

"Grian, honey, what are you doing out of bed? We didn't wake you did we?" Scar asked walking over to bring the smaller one into a hug.

"I-I didn't know where you both were and I got worried" Grian was often easily upset when tired so his boyfriends knew he got like this so they knew to speak gently around him.

"I'm sorry Gri, it's my fault, Scar came to get me and bring me to bed" Mumbo explained softly, stealing him from Scar.

Grian automatically attached himself to Mumbo, who picked him up, mumbling something into his shoulder.

"I think it time from cuddles and sleep now" scar suggested.

Mumbo agreed "That sounds nice"

The two worked together making sure not to wake their sleeping boyfriend as they made their way back to their shared bedroom.

Soon they cuddled up together with Grian still clinging on to Mumbo. "Thank you Scar" Mumbo mumbled as he slowly fell asleep.

"Any time" he replied placing a light kiss on his head.

Chapter Text

Scott felt disgusting. He really needs to change out of his scrubs and after the day he's had he just wants to scrub his body till his skin was raw.

Turning his car's engine off he sat in silence for a moment checking his phone, smiling to himself at the photo of him and his boyfriends on his Home Screen, 1:03 it read.

He switched it off and leaned back, grabbed his bag from the back seat, locking his car as he made his way inside.

Thankfully the door wasn't locked as he didn't know where his house keys were, although he loves winter the night air was just too cold to stand around in.

Opening the door as quietly as he could, internally celebrating when it didn't creak, the warmth of his home brought a smile to his face.

Walking over to the kitchen island he placed his bag on top then turned the small light above the stove top on to see what he was doing.

Then he began rummaging through his bag tossing any rubbish and leave his empty lunch containers in the sink, he'll wash up tomorrow he promises himself.

The main light of the kitchen then turned on making Scott jump out of his skin. Turning around with a hand on his heart he less met with one of his boyfriends.

"Sorry" Tango sheepishly apologised walking towards the other "just wanted to welcome you home"

He went to hug the other before he was stopped "don't I smell horrendous. I've had everything and anything all over me today, I don't want to burn your nose" he explained.

"Ah well, good job Jimmy's running you a bath right now" as if summoned the other appeared at the kitchen entrance.

"Glad we timed that right your baths ready" Jimmy came closer leaning on Tango "leave your bag me and Tango will sort it you go relax it seems like you need it. Do you want anything to eat?"

Scott felt his heart melt right then and there "no I'm ok, but a bath sounds amazing" his boyfriends then shooed him out the kitchen to go take his bath.

He was right that bath was amazing, he smell and feels so much cleaner. They even left his towel and pjs on the radiator to keep them warm for him.

Coming out to their bedroom he found them both still awake and waiting for him to join. He was dragged in between them as soon as he was on the bed.

"You know you both don't have to wait for me when I have long shifts like this" Scott explained to the two of them again like he did the last time the two waited for him to come home from the night shift.

"We know, but the bed still feels empty when one of us isn't here" Jimmy mumbled as he pulled Scott closer and snuggled into the fluffy blue hair.

"Yeah, besides you always wait for us and make sure when we come home we get everything we need to unwind" Tango said looking down at Scott, drawing shapes on his face and arms, watching as he slowly falls asleep.

He placed a kiss on his head "goodnight Scott"
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Tango was in pain. Everything hurt and he's pretty sure he's bleeding somewhere.

He ignored his team's advice to go to a hospital or at least have someone give him a check over but he insisted he was fine. He couldn't help but shiver at what Impulse had said to him.

"You do know what Scott will do to you if he finds out you didn't get checked out and plus Jimmy will back him up" Tango just rolled his eyes but knew it was true, if Scott was home he'd insist on checking him while Jimmy would snitch since he can't keep a secret to save his life.

And now here he was, in the bathroom trying to find their med kit with pain from his bleeding arm and aching muscles made it more difficult.

After a short search Tango deduced that someone must have moved it or used it and left it somewhere, probably in the kitchen as Jimmy's always accidentally slicing a finger open while cooking.

Tango walked out the bathroom into the bedroom but frozen when he voices downstairs. He quickly looked at the alarm clock, shit! He panicked Jimmy finished work and Scott was off today so he must've picked him up.

"Tango, hun? Are you home?" Scott called out as he ran back into the bathroom.

Shit! "Uh Y-yeah! I'm here. Just er in the bathroom!" Wow really convincing he scolded himself.

"Are you sure you're alright hun?" Scott sounded worried which just tugged at his heartstrings.

"Yeah just.." looking round the room his eye landed on his razor "I just nicked myself shaving and can't find the first aid kit!" He yelled.

"Oh it's down here Jimmy will bring it up to you" he yelled back a thank you and soon there was a knock on the door.

Opening it in a way so he was hid behind the door revealed Jimmy smiling at him holding their first aid kit with a small worry frown on his face.

"You ok Tango?" He asked softly and Tango nearly spilled everything to him but managed to give him a small nod.

As he reached for the box Jimmys hand caught his wrist, looking up Tango saw his face was now full of concern and before he could ask he remembered the still bleeding cut on his arm.

"Listen Jim-" but was cut off by Jimmy pushing the door open and pulling him closer to him.

"Tango! Why haven't you gotten it checked out or at least called us?" Jimmy asked but Tango just looked away.

"Please don't get-"

"I'm getting Scott" he interrupted "and your not fighting me on this"

Just as he was about to argue the bedroom door open "I heard my name what wrong?" Scott stepped closer looking at the scene in front of him.

Jimmy had a tight but not painful grip on Tango's wrist, who was hiding behind him but Scott could just about making out a rather deep looking cut on his upper arm.

He immediately ran over checking Tango's arm and then rest of him for any other injuries while Jimmy stepped back to let Scott fuss over their reckless boyfriend.

"Tango honey what happened?!?!?!" Tango just looked at the ground shame written on his face.

With a sigh Scott led him to the bed and sat him down Jimmy followed them also taking a seat next to Tango who hid in his shoulder as Scott examined his arm.

While Scott started to stitch up the cut Jimmy whisper positive reassurance and stroked his hair in an attempt to keep him calm.

They both knew Tango didn't like going to the hospital because of one too many bad experiences. That's why they were lucky to have someone who worked in healthcare in their group.

Scott finished up by wrapping a gauze on it. He brought Tango's face out from Jimmy's shoulder placing a kiss on his cheek and asked if he was in pain anywhere else.

"No, just sore shoulders and a stiff neck but I don't think you have anything in your bag that could help" he chucked as Scott thought for a moment before smiling and looking back up towards Jimmy.

Which is how he ended up with Jimmy giving him an amazing massage, watching TV and Scott cuddling him.

Relaxing back he felt jimmy place a kiss on his telling how brave he was today.
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Jimmy wanted to cry. No matter how many times he responds to these calls he's never ready for what he sees.

Grian and him were the first ones to respond to the call and when they arrived at the scene there were heart broken. It was sickening.

But they couldn't focus of that, there was still two people alive and back up was almost there.

But they were too late afterwards him and Grian were called and given permission to head home for the day and could take as long as they need till they were ready to come back.

Which led him standing outside of his house, he turned around and quietly thanked Mumbo who offered to take him home and waved to a quietly quiet Grian.

Upon entering it felt as if time had froze Scott and Tango were in the living room, Scott was stood in fount of the TV nervously biting his nails while Tango was sat on the edge of the sofa his hands in a praying position covered the lower half of his face.

The sound of the door closing got both of their attention and they just stared at each other for a moment until Scott broke the silence.

"Oh Jimmy" he rushed over, eyes glossy and pulled him into a hug. He felt another warm body next to him who he assumed was Tango.

They stayed like that for a moment until the two pulled away, Scott wiped the tears he didn't realised he had from his face and Tango took him by the hand and pulled him upstairs as Scott followed shortly after turning off the TV.

They showed him his kisses and helped him change into something more comfortable. Scott suggested about getting takeaway which was good because he really didn't want to leave or let his boyfriends leave.

Knowing Jimmy wouldn't want to be alone nor talk about the incident until he was mentally ready Tango and Scott set out to work.

They knew what to do as it wasn't the first time a case has really shook Jimmy like this they've all had days like this, it just part of their jobs.

So as Jimmy got changed Tango got the bed and tv  set up ready for lots of cuddles and a cosy night and Scott ordered the takeout and got anything else they'd need from downstairs so they wouldn't have to leave Jimmy.

Jimmy came out the bathroom, eye still bloodshot from crying, felt his eyes well up again at how thoughtful his boyfriends were Tango was also dressed in comfy clothes waiting for him on their bed.

"Where's Scott?" He asked looking around the room admiring what they'd done but was also searching for their other partner.

"Don't worry he's just gone to get the food, the pizza guys at the door see" he showed Jimmy a live video from their front door camera of a delivery guy leaving their driveway.

The door opened to reveal Scott holding pizza boxes with 3 cups in one hand and a bottle of coke in the other. They were both impressed with how well the others balance all that, it must have shown on their faces because he smirk and winked at the two causing them to laugh.

He set everything up and joined the two of them in watching the film they had but on.

Soon Tango was asleep and the two were dozing off Jimmy closed his eyes happily feeling safe despite the event that happened earlier that day.

The last thing he heard was Scott whisper "we're so proud of you and we'll be here with you for every step you take" finishing with a kiss on his forehead.

It wouldn't be an easy recovery, it never was for any of them. But they had done it many times before, because they had each other and that's all they needed.

Chapter Text

Something, wasn't right.

Unbeknownst to each other, they all felt it when they woke up at the same time in a cold sweat.

There was something different between each of them some felt a tug pulling them somewhere they could see, others felt the dread in the pit of their stomach slowly rising.

Maybe it was the itch they felt like they couldn't quite reach?, the phantom pains?, the bitterness in their mouth?, or the feeling of something crawling just below the surface of their skin?

Whatever it was they felt it. However, only one saw it.

Scott traced the mark on his wrist, he was standing in his dimly lit kitchen, the sun wasn't even rising just yet but there was no way he's going back to sleep with those three colours still hunting him.

He sighed walking over to a double door between his kitchen and living room and opened it to reveal a balcony full a gorgeous plant, with some still waiting for the sun.

The only sound in his empire was the sound of the wind blowing past, and a few distant voices of people waking up for work of those finally heading home from the tavern.

However he's mind still went back to the new mark he had acquired. He needed to figure out what the meaning behind it was, and had an idea on who to ask. For now though he's going to start getting ready for the day ahead.
_________________________________

Scar didn't know what was wrong but something was, he hadn't had such a sudden wake up for a while now.

He was going over all the possible reasons for it how he couldn't think of anything that would cause him to react like that. Eventually he chalked it up to it just being a nightmare he didn't remember and went about his day.

Eventually the sun began to rise and he spotted Pearl in the distance while he wandered around the shopping district and waved her over.

She smiled upon seeing him and the two began chatting away about projects and the newest hermit gossip involving Doc's latest prank. Soon the question of why they were both up at ridiculous o'clock.

Now it wasn't starve to see a hermit or two awake at such late or early hours, depending on how you look at it, but it was strange that the other seemed to have experienced the same sudden disturbance at the same time.

Even weirder was Pearl commenting on the tattoo like mark on Scars neck he had somehow missed and her showing him a somewhat similar mark on her upper arm.

The was too strange and it only got stranger with the sound of both their communicators buzzing simultaneously. Opening them revealed a message from Grian on their private group chat requesting a meeting immediately.
_________________________________

Martyn didn't know what to think when he saw the message but soon he was at the door within what he could only assume to be a small pocket server only a few have access to.

Stepping in he walked passed the living room straight to the kitchen where Grian, Scott, Joel, and Cleo who seemed to be making some sort of hot drink for everyone judging by the amount of cups she had out.

Scott offered him a greeting smile which he returned "Martyn, I'm glad you came so fast. We're just waiting on Scar and Pearl who should be here soon" Martyn nodded in acknowledgment and takes a set on the mini sofa they have off to the side of the room "Want a hot drink Martyn?" Cleo asks him as Grain and Scott are talking about something he couldn't quite hear "tea please Cleo" she hummed telling her she heard him.

Soon Cleo came over and joined him on the sofa, passing him his tea while nursing her own mug. Then the sound of someone opening the door caused everyone heads to turn towards the sound. "Sorry we're late!" a yell from Scar came from the other room, followed by the sound of the door closing and pearl explaining they ran into an issue getting here.

"You're fine come take a seat" Scott reassured them that they were that late. Cleo asks if either of them want a drink to which Scar only ask replied just asking for a glass of water as the two took a seat, as Grian began the meeting.

"Right, I'm sure you can figure out that what this is about. So yeah no avoiding it, we believe that the watchers are messing with us again" the room became tense upon hearing the name of them.

"More specifically we think they are planning something, since the night we got these markings, I assume that you have all been experiencing dreamlike vision of the games and phantom pains both physically and emotionally?" Grian asks and everyone quietly agree.

Noticing Joel looking like he wanted to say something Scott added "We know this doesn't mean a new games starting as it's too early, they normally need time to build the world, and we normally know when we're going into a game soon" Joel nodded now understanding.

Grian then continued "we just wanted to see if the rest of you were also expecting this, now that we know you are we need to key an eye out for any signs of watcher activity and report it to each other."

"We also need to keep on eye on everyone who's part of the games" Scott added before turning to Joel "Joel I understand you're our newest member so don't be afraid to ask for help anything, and try not to show you know anything okay"

Joel nod's giving him a small yeah. They had been told what happens if they say too much to another life member.

"Ok then" Grian claps asking "anything else we need to address before we leave"

"Besides the fact you owe me 10 diamonds Gri?" Pearl comments, causing the others to laugh.

They bicker for a moment on whether he does owe her or not, on the silly little deal they made, before Cleo speaks up.

"Grian?" She asks getting everyone's attention "Do you think we should be wary of the up coming festival?" He asks her to elaborate on what she means.

"Well it's going to be held on Hermitcraft with everyone from the Empires smp coming over along with a few outsiders like Martyn and BigB who were invited to join." He nodded picking up on what she was saying.

"Wouldn't that be the perfect time to strike? With all the members of the games on one server?" She explained

The room once again fell silent with the weight of Cleo's words lingering in the air.

"No, it's exactly when they're going strike. So now we have a date we need to be on full alert and ready for anything. We'll think of a plan soon for now let's get back home I don't want to stay here any longer than I need to" everyone agreed before Joel piped up again.

"Void I don't know how you all can do this"
_________________________________
They decided to start preparing for anything to happen and soon they were a day away from the festival when Grian asked for another meeting.

Where they just done a check in, seeing how everyone was feeling and letting them know Xisuma and Doc may ask you if they remember anything from the games, and to also just be in high alert for anything to happen.

The day of the festival came with the hermits waited patiently for their guests to arrive, and once they did they were gave a warm welcome from everyone.

Xisuma called for everyone's attention saying that the hermits will take everyone to the small winter village they made so they could get settled in while some hermits finish their final preparations.

Scott, Grian and Pearl lingered near the back out of ear shot of everyone. "You both feel it too right?" Scott asked the siblings.

"Yeah it's weak but still concerning, especially since I got X to install that extra barrier on the server. Thanks for that by the way" Grain thanked.

"No worries, I just hope it'll keep them out" he looked up at the sky taking in the warm swirls of the sun setting.

A laugh brought he attention back to the group in front of them, scanning for the source of the sound before his eyes landed of Jimmy laughing at something Tango had said as the two walked with Impulse, Skizz and Shelby.

He watched as the two got closer together until their hands meet. He saw the blush bloom across their face. He saw Jimmy slowly putting his hand in Tango's. He saw Tango squeeze his in return. He saw them share a small embarrassed smile.

He saw the look in both their eyes.

A hand on his shoulder spooked him enough to bring him back. It was Pearls, she and Grian had that same look on their face as they did when they first saw Jimmy and Tango together.

Scott had pulled his own face at both of them before. They knew his pain. "It's ok they're happy, and it's not like I'm going to lose him forever. I'll still be there friend."

"Plus I'm not the only one who's been hurt." he looks up again just in time to catch Scar look away from where Grian was walking next to Pearl and him, towards where BigB was talking with Cleo, Joe, and Mumbo.

He heard Grian sigh also looking at Scar and mumbo then to the ground. "Come on let's get to the cabins, the winners are sharing one. We can wallow in self pity together around a fire with some hot chocolate" Pearl wrapped her arms around both of them as the villager slowly came into view.
_________________________________
The first night of the festival was going well food was amazing, everyone was laughing and having fun. Even the winners were smiling thanks to the other's encouragement.

And of course that didn't last.

It's started with the same feeling as the one they got night they woke up with the marks on them, however this time it wasn't just them.

The other plays of the game seem to have also felt the shift, the rest of them caught on to the sudden change asking if everyone was alright.

But before Scott could talk to Grian. The most excruciating pain washed over him, he felt his eyes, head and the wrist with the mark on burn particularly strong then,

He was out like a light...

Chapter Text

Counting down the minutes always has mixed results some get excited, some anxious, but this lot wouldn't shut up!!!!

[30 MINUTES TILL SHOW TIME PEOPLE, 30 MINUTE]

The voices from above boomed backstage, people across the rooms and hallways were doing makeup, last minute adjustments, or chatting away.

"Scar, could you tilt your head up for me please?" Scar smiled softly looking up from his phone to the girl in front of him.

"Anna you know you never need to ask" he said receiving a soft laugh from her as she applied something to amplify the scar on his cheek.

"Yeah I know"

"If needed just yank his head back" a voice from behind said. Scar made eye contact with Cleo through the mirror in front of him as she was getting her mic fitted onto her costume.

The comment made him pout but before he could say something back another voice to his left chimed in "Anna's too nice to do anything like that Cleo"

Martyn stood there eating something out of a bag already in makeup and costume, a bonus of getting a ride with Ren is he gets there before anyone is even set up.

"What's that you got?" Cleo asked raising a brow. Martyn straightened out the packaging and turned it around for her to see they were chocolate covered pretzels.

He pushed the bag towards her "want one?" He asked. Without a would she took three out and then he turned to ask scar who denied them.

"How'd you get them pass B and Leah? She strict on the food rules and B can smell chow a mile away" Anna asked after Cleo said how good they were.

"We BigB already found me earlier and Leah thinks I'm still in my dressing room" Martyn laughed but with the sound of footsteps getting closer prompted him to hide behind the rack of costume near Cleo.

A woman with a high blonde ponytail in all back poked her head in the room "has anyone see Grian? No one's see him and we're going to be doing final checks soon"

The group murmured a few "no's" the woman huffed and was about to leave but quickly saying to send Scott and Martyn to her when they see either of them before closing the door.

"I'm trouble are we?" Cleo teased as Martyn came out of hiding.

"No clue but I'm already in trouble with her for food related reasons, I'm not sure why she needs Scott but I'm going to find him after I hid these. See you guys" Cleo grabbed a few more pretzels before he left.

"Wanna bet to see if Grian's gonna make it or not?" She asked Scar with a smirk.

"You bet" he laughed.
_________________________________
Skizz, Impulse, Etho, Tango, and Gem were sat round a coffee table with a pack of uno cards and some sweet scattered across the table.

Once they were all ready to go on stage Skizz brought out the uno pack to pass the time with soon turned into them betting sweet with Impulse having the most from the winning streak he was on.

Etho was the only one who had also won around cause the volume of the other just trying to dethrone the current victor together.

Despite all the shouting impulse managed to hear the knock at the door and prompted whoever was on the other side to come in.

Lizzie stepped into the room in costume just missing her cardigan "what's going on over here?" She asked at the sight of them on the floor.

"Impulse is cheating!!!" Tango yelled pointing accusing finger at him, who in turn dramatically gasped with a hand coming to cover his chest.

"I am not!" He's resorted back

"Are too!!"

"AM NOT!!!"

"ARE TOO!!!" Tango yelled this time accompanied by Gem and Skizz.

Sighing Etho turned to her and asked if she needed anything.

"Nothing important" she cleared her throat to stop herself from laughing " just wondering if I left my headpiece in here?"

"Oh I think it's on the vanity table over there" she followed to wear he was pointing to find what she was looking for.

"Ah got it, thank you!" She smiled walking over to him and gave him a thank you kiss on his head.

Not expecting anything he ducked his head down and mumbled a 'no problem' making a point to ignore the teasing smirks being sent his way.

Lizzie not noticing them cheerfully made her way to the door but stopped as she opened it "oh before I go, has anyone seen Scott or Martyn? Or Grian for that matter people are looking for them" They shook their heads and with that Lizzie left with a wave.

Etho with his head still down was trying to pull his mask up higher to hide the rapidly increasing blush.

"Er Etho... you got a little something..." he looked towards Tango, ignoring the sniggering around him, to see him pointing to the side of his own head.

He rubbed his head and looked towards Tango see pink lipstick smudged on his fingers "oh Etho my hero *mwah*" With the teasing laughter and blush rising to his ears he snapped back at Tango.

"Well Tango tell us, where's your boyfriends at? Lizzie is looking for one of them" The laughter increased and Tango turned as red as his contacts.

"Scott and Jimmy aren't my boyfriend!!!" He yelled covering his face.

"Funny you mention them Tops, 'cause Etho didn't" Skizz teased, causing Tango to shrink even more on himself.
_________________________________
Jimmy and Joel stood in a sort of busy hallway, with someone passing by every now and again.

Joel continued to tease Jimmy on chickening out on his deal, “come Jim it’s the last performance tonight it’s now or never”

“Seriously Jim, what’s the worst that could happen?” Jimmy looked at him like he’s grown two heads.

“What’s the wors- JOEL! Almost anything bad could happen!” His hands began wildly gesturing along with his rant “they could say no, they could absolutely hate me, they could stop talking to me, they could start dating someone else, I mean they deserve to be loved but it would be hard to watch, they could hate each other, THEY COULD SAY NO!!!!!”

Joel deadpanned at his friends fears “ok now we’re gonna take a breather” Joel waited till Jimmy was a little calmer before beginning again “Jim, you’re a lovely guy, anyone would be lucky to have you as a partner. And besides you may be blind as a bat” he ignored the offend noise the other made “but everyone else see they way you all look at each other, it’s actually sickening”

Joel started again not commenting on the annoyed look Jimmy was sending him “But if you don’t confess by the end of this performance you’re never gonna do it, and trust me you’ll regret” Jimmy was silent for a while letting Joel’s words sink in.

[20 MINUTES TILL SHOW TIME PEOPLE, 20 MINUTE]

“Right we better go find Grain come on” jimmy ran to catch up to Joel who in turn looped an arm around his neck and brought him down to his level “like seriously if you and Grian don’t confess soon, I’m gonna tell the myself”

“Oh so you and Lizzie will finally ask Etho on a date then?” Jimmy questioned earning him a shove as Joel changed the topic to finding the last bad boy.
_________________________________
“Has anyone see Grian?” Leah yelled across the sea of performers and stage hands, they were only a few minutes away from the opening. Just a few more performers were having last minute touch ups.

Scott, Pearl and Big B were chatting about their last performance while Scott and Pearl were having their mics and head pieces attached.

They were laughing about how many time someone forgot a line or the improv scene Ren done a few nights ago because he forgot a whole page of script.

“Nah the best was when Scar and Jimmy just randomly started dancing and no one had a clue what they were doing” Pearl laughed.

“I think when Ren’s cape got caught was worse” Max said from where they were adjusting the Mic on Pearl “Remember his mic was still on and it somehow didn’t pick up on him choking when he didn’t realised”

“Oh yeah Martyn was trying to free him with his foot and Ren had to do his speech standing still and not wandering around” Big B add on.

“I still think the best was when Skizz kissed mumbo and impulse, no one was expecting and they were both bright red regardless” Scott chuckled at the memory.

“Shame he said it was platonic, impulse looked a bit heartbroken” Pearl commented.

They others hummed in agreement before Max spoke up again “I think Martyn’s gonna try the lucky game again tonight” the three performers groaned, last time they played the “luck game” they were running away from each other on stage.

Ellie who was doing Scott’s hair asked them what they was in about “Martyn can up with a new game idea for us to play on stage” Big B explained “so he has this palm size fake gold coin that each performer passes around between each other on and backstage and whoever ends up with it when we close the curtains has to buy everyone a round of drinks”

“And last time we all got so drunk we couldn’t get ready in time for rehearsals the next day. With tonight being the last night it’s going to be bad, not to mention the price for the poor loser at the end” Scott added on at the end.

“Right Scott you are finally done” Ellie patted his shoulder “now I’ve got to go help Leah finded Grian, if I don’t see you all before you’re on stage break a leg!”

The group waved goodbye “seriously where’s Grian he’s been gone ages Gem was the last person with him and no one’s seen him since, I’m actually starting to worry” Pearl expressed her worries, it was unusual for someone to go missing for a long time but now it was getting excessive.

“He’ll show up I’m sure, Grian hasn’t ever missed his que” Scott reassured her “now come on we’ve got to get to the head count”
_________________________________
[5 MINUTES TILL SHOW TIME PEOPLE, 5 MINUTE]

“Ok listen up has anyone, anyone seen Grian?” Leah desperately asked the performers, she sighed at the negative responses and told them to wait a moment leaving them to talk among themselves before the show starts.

“It’s crazy to think how far we’ve all come” Bdubs commented looking around at everyone. And it was true most of them were from two different acting schools while the ones who weren’t were freelancers.

“Yeah remember when you’d always look to me when you had forgotten your line” Cleo laughed looking at Bdubs now red face.

“Or remember when Skizz lost his voice and had to do over the top acting” Gem remembered.

“Or when Joel broke his toe and had to do rehearsals in huge boot” Mumbo joined in.

“I remember when someone used to stutter over that one line” Etho added looking towards Scar

“Come on I wasn’t the only one who stuttered, Jimmy was just as bad!” Scar complains and Jimmy yells offended.

“That’s because Scott would say a few words to him and he’d turn into a puddle” Martyn laugh elbowing poor Jimmy in the ribs.

“Last I remember you’d be just as red Martyn” Scott said accusatory “I could no still can get most of the people here to bloom a lovely shade of red”

“Alright then put your money where you mouth is ten bucks says you can’t get 3/4s of the people here to blush” Martyn stuck his hand out which Scott took without any hesitation.

“Running my mouth on things is how I make quick cash, lover boy” he winked causing not only Martyn to blush but Tango and Jimmy who were beside him to blush as well.

“That doesn’t count” Martyn said quickly pulling his hand away from the smaller one “plus it needs to be on stage still up for it?”

“You know it” Scott’s confidence still shining strongly.

“Seriously where’s Grian? He’s que us coming up” Pearl said the panic now more present in her voice.

And right on que a voice over the radio on Leah’s hip said he was running down to them now.

Leah quickly moved everyone to their positions on the circular platform that was meant to raise the middle first then the rest of them.

And in the final count down they heard the sound of footsteps racing down the corridor.

10

9

8

Jimmy thought back to all the times when he was with his crushes and how they made him smile, tonight he was determined now more than ever to tell them his true feelings.

7

6

5

Etho thought back to Lizzie’s kiss earlier, one of the many things the couple did to him and him alone. Looking up at the two holding hands but instead of looking at each other they were looking at him.

4

3

2

Mumbo and Scar shared a look with each other, a look only the two could ever share about their boyfriend and his dramatic entrances. And boy how they loved him and his dramatic entrances.

1…

A flash of red wizzed past them all and stood in the middle of the circle was the missing man himself trying to catch a breath.

But before anyone could ask him where he was or what he was doing he just stood tall and looked towards an angry Leah and said “told you I’d make it” as his platform began to rise up to the stage.

Looking out at their final crowd for their performance of ‘the life series’ Grian smiled and muttered under his breath

“Let the show begin”

Chapter Text

Superheroes, supervillains, superpowers, superstars you name it the city of Hermitopia.

(Strange name I know, you'll get uses to them around here, trust me)

With the city there is a building, although not the tallest one it still towers over the rest of them, who work with the L.I.F.E organisation.

On the 17th floor a knock at the door echoed across the quiet room, after a minute or two of silence the sound of door opening filled the space, followed by footsteps on the wooden floor.

"Where on earth is he?" An aggressive whisper came from the kitchen, the group that had broken into Etho's floor had been searching for the missing man when he didn't show up for their lunch meet up in the building's cafeteria.

"Well he isn't in his lab" Tango said coming out from the room and shutting the door behind him, newspaper in hand. "Hey, have you seen article on that rich couple?"

"Lizzie and Joel? Good lord what have they done to make the city go wild for them this time?" Skizz rolled his eyes "It still surprises me that they managed to get to Etho of all people"

"Now's not the time you two, he isn't it his room either!" Bdubs exclaimed. Each person working in the building had their own lab, office, bedroom/spare room, bathroom, and kitchen, while sharing their floor with another individual of the interests. "Where on earth is he?!?!"

"Should we try calling him again? Maybe he had an emergency or something?" Skizz asked also stumped on where their friend was.

"No need, I found him" the group all turned and went to see where Impulse was looking. In Etho's office surrounded by papers, small gadgets, redstone dust, and an empty plate to his left was Etho fast asleep arms crossed and screen still on.

"Oh he didn't go home last night did he?" No one bothered to answer Skizz. Instead Impulse went over to his desk and began to gently shake him awake.

Etho shuffled around a bit, trying to shake Impulse off before rubbing his eyes and sitting up. "Oh look at him and we joke about Top's being the cat of the group"

"Hey!" It took a minute for Skizz's comment to register for Etho.

"What are you lot doing here?" He asked

"You missed lunch and weren't answering our calls, we were worried something happened" impulse explained.

"Nah I'm fine, just got busy with paperwork. What time is it?"

Skizz looking concerned took out his phone to read the time "it's a quarter to 3, listen dude maybe you should head home for the day" upon hearing the time Etho properly wakes up and starts quickly shuffling through the papers on his desk, making two piles on in his hands and one off to the side.

"oh no i can't I'm meant to bring these papers to the hero agency before half 3 and with the main road still not fixed means i have to set off now if I don't want to be late" He began rapidly explaining, wincing at the sudden pain on his low back and legs. "Besides, I'm not that tired"

"um, yeah no" Impulse push him back into his seat and grabbed the papers off him, ignoring his protests. "Listen Etho, no offence you look like shit. I have some things in my car I need to drop off their, why don't I take care of that while you get yourself home."

Etho opened his mouth to argue but Bdubs got their first "Come on Etho your clearly in pain and are too tired to day, go home and rest we sort everything out here" Etho looked away from Bdubs' pleading eyes "If you don't I'm calling mom"

Yep that does it. There was one person Etho always lost an argument to, that was the groups "mother", and to be honest Etho really didn't feel like arguing with Cleo today.

"Fine, I'll go home and rest".
_________________________________
That small journey in his car from his work to where he was now stuck made him do a 180 from not wanting to leave to him not wanting to wait to get home.

Out of nowhere the ground started shaking violently underneath, prompting a few people including Etho to get out of his car.

A few cars further in front of Etho, few into the air, as one of the city’s more well known villains began destroying the city and tormenting the people.

It was carnage, people scrambling to safety, screaming from every direction, a few braver citizens were trying desperately to help, but sadly some victims weren’t able to be saved.

Etho turned to see what a few people cheering at. Above him he saw two hero’s fighting the villain, he couldn’t tell who was winning but he now knew from watching the fight that it was the hero’s The Ocean Queen and Stratos who were fighting.

“MAMA!!!!” His head snapped around looking for where the desperate scream was coming from when his eyes landed on a young boy trying to pull his clearly injured mother out from under a car.

Without a second thought Etho ran over, despite the pain, to help the mother and son duo. After assessing the situation he told the mother that he and her son were going to try to pull her out as he lifts the car to the best of his ability.

One three the woman’s screams rang out but they managed to get her free, her screams brought someone over to them who offered to carry the woman while Etho carried her child.

Just as they were leaving a car flew above them and crashing down between them. “GET HER OUT OF HERE ILL FIND ANOTHER WAY TO YOU BOTH!” Etho shouted over the car.

Reassuring the terrified boy in his arms he began looking for an escape, spotting an alleyway he began running toward it but cursed in his head once he realised it was a dead end.

The sound of something falling made them both jump and as Etho turned around he made eye contact with the villain who was dusting off the dirt.

He sent Etho a sickening smile and began walking towards the two, holding a bottle full of liquid containing gods above knows, and Etho didn’t want to know.

He started to walk back further down the alley while keeping an eye on the villain who was matching his steps, until he felt his heel get caught on something causing him to fall, yelling in pain.

“Well what do we have here? Someone else trying to play hero’s, well you heroes are the same AND NEED TO PAY!!!!” He threw the bottle and…

Nothing?

Etho opened his eyes to see they were surrounded by water “the ocean queen” the boy in his arms whispered.

Stood behind the villain not only creating a protective shield around the two but also holding the villain in chains of water was the pastel pink and blue hero named the Ocean Queen.

Etho had never seen any heroes up close before but from the way the sun shone around her into the dark alleyway, he understood why people often called her a siren.

“I’m sorry to ruin your fun then, but it seems like you’re not welcome here” in all honesty Etho never really understood why hero’s say things like that but seeing’s the villains face made a smirk tug at his lips.

She pulled the chains back at full force send the villain flying and the protective shield around them disappear.

Another figure ran past her, as she ran to continue the fight, towards them.

“Right let’s get you both out of here” Stratos was nearly down in front of the two, his fingers dancing around the two checking for any injuries stopping for a moment when they got to Ethos mask.

Break out of his trance Etho shoved the young boy into Stratos’ arms “get him to his mother first I’ll be fine” he said silently hissing through his teeth.

“You don’t look fine are you sure-“

“Yes! You go I’ll find another way out, just find his mother she was injured wearing a red top and blue pants” Stratos nodded assuring the boy in his arms that I’ll be ok. He looked back towards Etho his mask hiding the concern over his face before taking off.

Etho sighed he just wanting to go home, when did the sun follow hero’s around illuminating them to look like angels. He shook his head and began limping out the alleyway.

Looking around the wreckage he saw some people waving him and a few others over to safety and began to make his way over to them.

Avoiding hole in the floor, fire and rubble, watching his footing, trying to ignore the pain and the way his body just wanted to shut down.

He was almost there, he was suddenly snatched and pulled into the sky. “You want to be a hero, then go save your damsel in distress!”

Well this was going to do wonders to his legs, granted he survives this.

“NO!!! JOEL!!!” Lizzie screamed from where she lay exhausted, she watched with tears appearing as an innocent civilian was currently falling to his death and she couldn’t do anything.

Etho wasn’t a religious man but considering he’s already met two angels today him praying isn’t too much of a surprise. He closed his eyes and braced himself but nothing came.

Opening his eyes to see Stratos looking down at him with a smirk on his face “well if you really wanted me to hold you, you could have just asked for a hug”

Etho takes back everything he said about hero’s being angels, rolling his eyes he asked if the boy was ok.

“Yeah he and his mother were being tended to by the paramedics” Etho nodded glad he was save, he notice that the fight had stopped and saw the Ocean Queen talking to someone in swat armour and the villain being taken away”

“She got him” Etho mumbled suddenly realising how much pain and little energy he had which was hidden by the adrenaline.

“Yeah, she did. You’re safe now don’t worry, I’ve got you” that was the last thing he heard as he lay on Stratos’ shoulder and let him slip unconscious.
_________________________________
It was a few days later since the incident, his friends a first refused to leave him alone. But when he was finally allowed back into work they eased up a bit knowing he would be closer.

The most obvious difference that happened after the incident was that he managed to catch the attention of the city’s most beloved superhero duo who were currently watching him work.

“Can I help you?” He asked not looking up from the gadget he was working on.

“Maybe you can maybe you can’t, I don’t know you tell me Eefo” Stratos and the Ocean Queen have been visiting him a lot to the point they had become very comfortable around each other and started sharing things about themselves but they still kept their masks on for privacy reasons.

Stratos was shoved forwards towards by the Ocean Queen ignoring his whining on not wanting to ask. “Actually I was wondering if you could fix this” he handed Etho something resembling a gas mask.

“My brilliant husband here broke his water breathing mask the other day being an idiot” She explained knowing her he would explain.

After inspecting it he told them he should be able to get it fixed by the end of the week.
“There was something else actually… here”

She handed him a fancy looking envelope with a wax seal on the back only having his name on, he recognised the seal from somewhere.

“Our friends wanted to meet you, so we hope you can make it” the Ocean Queen says walking out the room with Stratos in tow who sent him a cheeky wink as he left.

Oh he was so screwed. Open and reading the letter over and again, and once more. He had been invited to attend a gala next week being hosted by the famous couple Lizzie and Joel.

Oh snappers! He was so screwed.

Chapter Text

Scott sighed stretching his arms in hopes of helping his aching joints. He loves his job especially helping the kids learn about the world and taking those first steps but sometimes Scott found it difficult to keep up with their hyperactive lifestyle.

Especially when something was bugging him or he had something on his mind.

He found where Gem had hid his coffee and pastry, heating the pastry up in the microwave, he took a seat at their small kitchen island. Closing his eyes and taking a breath from being dragged around this morning by little ones.

Listening to the quiet sound of the kids next door he thought back to the two handsome blondes with the sweetest little girl, they could just make Scott's heart melt.

A cough behind him made him jump out his skin, turning to look was Gem giving him a sly grin and brow raised. He knew exactly what she was thinking, because it's what he was thinking about a moment ago.

He held a finger up at her "Don't" was all he said before Cleo came into the break room soon after her.

"What's the gossip today?" Cleo asked reading the room like a picture book, Gem ignored the clear glare Scott was sending her way.

"Oh just some of our newest parents, the good-looking blonde boys with their adorable little girl who has taken quite an interest in our dear Scotty here" she laughs as Scott tries to hide behind his hands "and it seems she isn't the only one to take interest"

"Oh?" Cleo questions "this wouldn't happen to be little Revy's dads, you know, the one I sometimes catch chatting up Scott at pick-up, who in turn watches them leave with hearts in his eyes" the two laugh at Scott's misery.

"Ok first of all they are not chatting me up, we just talk about how well Rev's doing and work, you know normal stuff" he hears Cleo mumbling something about 'normal talk' and 'flirting with the parents' but ignores her "second of all you two need to stay out of my love life and deal with your own" which caused them both to blush "and third, aren't you supposed watching the kids?"

"The kids are watching a movie" Cleo clears her throat in hopes her blush dies down "seriously Scott, why don't you talk to them they seem genuinely interested in you and plus you know I wouldn't encourage you if they weren't"

"I do talk to them" he tries to argue with her.

"Awakedly flirting with each other doesn't count" she deadpans.

"I was not flirting with them" he sneered before deflating "plus I can't"

"Why not Scott?" Gem asks sensing his distress.

"Oh I don't know Gem, maybe because they’re both taken and happy?!? To each other no less! With a daughter!" He yells before softening seeing Gem jump "I'm sorry, but the last thing i want to be is a homewrecker. Besides I'm happy with how things are" He finishes smiling sadly at the floor.

Both girls look at each other, sympathy written across their faces for their friend. Neither of them notice the two small figures hiding behind the staffroom door, until their both hugging Scotts legs.

"Rev! Amy! what are-"

"PLEASE DON'T BE SAD MR SCOTT!" both wailing into his jeans, he kneels down and pulls them both into a hug assuring them that he was okay.

"Come on why don't we go draw, yeah? Yeah, come on then" he takes them both out the room.

"So we're going to help our hopeless friend right?" Cleo asks with a smirk.

"Well Rev did admit to me she once called him'mama'" she chuckled.

_________________________________

Gem had managed to send Scott away before Jimmy came to pick up his daughter. She watch from behind the reception desk as he made his way up the stairs to the door with a noticeable skip in his step.

"Good afternoon Gem" He cheerfully greets dragging out the 'Good'.

She chuckles "well someone's in a good mood today, care to share your secret?"

He shrugs "Oh no reason. Is Scott here?" ignoring the look Gem was sending him.

"Sadly no. Any particular reason why your after Scott in particular when I’m here?" Realising he's been caught Jimmy averts his eyes from her intense stare mumbling a small 'no reason'.

...

"uh-huh" She said after a few seconds of silents.

"Ok fine!" he said throwing his hands up, his blush darkening.

Grinning at her victory she asked him "when?"

"what?"

"when did you first start liking him?"

"I- uh um, I-I think it was when i first met him? When you weren’t here, well i thought he was beautiful despite being covered in paint." he laughed.

"Rev also played a part in it, I've never seen her seen her so excited talking about a single person before. She really loves him"

"You know she isn't the only one, she has a real good hold on Scott's heart. He adores her"

"she has that effect on people" Gem hums in agreement.

"You know Scott's been talking to the kids about this new cat cafe that's just opened up he really wants to try..."

"Gem! No! I can't! can i? I mean he's my daughter’s teacher for crying out loud , I can ask him on a date! Isn’t there a rule against that? And-and Tango! What would think? I mean- would Scott even want to date someone like me and-and secondly-"

"whoa, whoa Jimmy who said anything about a date" she laughed at his flustered state "I didn't say anything about a date it was just a surestion"

His eyes widened realising what he had said "Ah right, haha" he awakedly rubbed his neck trying to not let his disappointment show.

"Maybe not a date but you could still ask him to go, I'm sure Rev would love to have a day with one of her favourite people besides her dads"

"yeah maybe" coming out from behind the counter, she placed two hands in his shoulders making sure he was looking at her before continuing.

"Jimmy your a great guy, even if you don't see it. Tango and Rev are proof of that, and Scott's lovely. Just think about it for me, yeah?" with that she left to go get his daughter.

_________________________________

"Tango?" he looked up to the voice who had called his name.

"Oh, hi Cleo!" he smiled surprised to see the red head. "Doing your weekly shop?"

"Yeah there's some good deals on today, you?"

"Ah no, grabbing a few bit and pieces for Rev's school project" he explained showing her his basket.

"So that explains the macaroni then" she laughed m.

"Yeah she really wants to impress her teacher with her macaroni flowers she's planning" smiling thinking back to when Rev sat him down at the table explaining her plan and writing down her list of supplies needed. "sadly the stores mysteriously out of all kinds of glitter"

She laughs at Tango's small excuses in order to not have to clean up a glitter bomb. "Speaking of Scott what do you think about him?"

"What do I think about him?" he asked with a brow raised, as she nodded "Well I think he a great teacher, Rev seems to think so at least I've never seen her enjoy learning anything as much as she does art. And she's improved so much thanks to him! With her birthday coming soon we’re thinking of getting her an artist set." Cleo nods along, encouraging him to continue.

"He's also very patient with her and the rest of the kids, from what I've seen anyways always with a smile on his face, a kind one kinda like an angel." he softly laughed "and the way his eyes shine when he's happy or sees something he likes" a smile and blush crept across his face thinking back to when Rev showed a drawing using the techniques he had taught her, remembering how his eye lit up upon seeing the picture.

Snapping out of his lovesick dazes looking back towards Cleo, who was watching his little rant with a smile which was crossed between a genuine one and a teasing one.

"not a word" he hissed pointing towards her, who put her hands up in mocking surrender.

"I didn't say anything, I'm just glad you not as blind as your partner" she laughed before saying "he's got your whole family wrapped around his finger without even knowing it"

Feeling the heat rise to his ears he snapped "Don't laugh at me or Jimmy! Tell me what I should do! This is different than it was with Jimmy we adopted Rev first and over time without noticing we became partners it was so steady and natural. We didn't have this awaked highschool crush moment what am i meant to do??" he asked with pleading eyes.

"Tango i'm afraid to say this is your problem mate I can't control anyone in this situation, not your feelings, not Jimmy's, not Rev's, and definitely not Scott's" He deflated a bit understanding what she was saying but still hating it.

A comforting hand was placed on his shoulder "I will say this though, do something now before you regret it okay. Scott's amazing and unique, if you don't do something soon someone else I don't trust him with will. See you tuesday Tango"

She left him in the aisle think over her words carefully.

"Wait you trust me with Scott?!?!?!"

_________________________________

"Daddy can we get ice?" Rev asked with her best begging eyes holding on to her dads arm.

He chuckled, use to his daughters antics. "Maybe not now since we haven't had dinner yet, maybe after yeah" she pouted not pleased fits her dad's answer so she tried her papa.
"Papa?" She asked sweet with the same puppy eyes, unlike her dad her papa always struggled to say no to them.

"Princess, listen to your dad" well almost always, if her dad hadn't beaten her with a look of his own.

Still not happy she let go of their hands and crossed her arms with the saddest pout she could muster.

Jimmy knelt down to his daughter hight and asked if she'd like to instead play in the park for a bit, her mood perked up and Jimmy told her that they'll be over on a nearby beach but she was gone before he could finish.

Rev was stood at the top of the slide looking at everyone around her when she saw a familiar face behind the parks fence where some cars were parked alongside the pavement.

Wanting to be sure she waited for the person to turn around and it was who she thought it was quick she slid down and made her way out of one of the park's entrances around the corner to "Mr Scott!!!!!" She yelled running towards him with her arms open.

He looked up from where he was kneeling down looking at his deflated tire. "Rev?! What on earth?" He hugged her and pulled back placing his hands on her shoulder "what are you doing here alone? where are your dad's?" He asked looking around for the two men.

She looked around now noticing everything was unfamiliar and her dads were no where to be seen, at the realisation her eye began to water.

"Oh hey now don't worry. Come on let's go find them they can't be that far right?" He reassured the little girl and picked her up, resting her on his hip "Come on then"

He walked with her towards the play set scanning around for Tango and Jimmy until he heard someone calling her name "papa" she whispered.

Scott quickened his pace towards the anxious calls and soon spotted Jimmy. "JIMMY!!!!" His head whipped toward Scott, eyes wide and breathing a sigh of relief.

"REV! TANGO IVE GOT HER!!!" He ran over to the two "well Scott's got her" he chuckled grateful she was safe. "Oh Rev sweetheart you gave us a scare, where'd you go? Oh thank you Scott!" But Scott just waved him off.

"Oh baby you're okay! I almost called the police" Tango finally came over joining in on the reunion "thank you Scott, thank you so so much"

Scott just laughed saying he was just in the right place at the right time "still what are you doing here? Well I mean it a park you're allowed to be here and all but.." Tango trailed off.

"Actually my cars around the corner" he said pointing over his shoulder in the car's direction "Something's not right with the engine. I've tried to call someone but my phone died on me so I'm kinda stuck" he explained.

"Do you need any help?" Both of them asked causing them all to blush at how eager they both sounded to help him.

"Nah it ok I wouldn't want to keep you all when I'm getting dark soon, a friend of mine lives about 50 minutes away from here I'll probably just walk there" he said declining their offer.

"Daddy could help Mr Scott he's good with cars and machines, he fixed my nightlight!" Rev suggested.

"I can try sweetheart, do you mind if I take a look Scott?" Scott gave him the ‘go ahead' and lead them to his car.

"Scott what phone do you have again?" Jimmy then asked now on the ground rummaging through his backpack as Rev stood over him watching.

"an iPhone, why?"

Jimmy pulled out an apple charger attached to a portable power bank and handed it to Scott "Here" he offered standing up wiping the dirt from his knees, grateful Scott began charging his phone"How's it looking rancher?"

The other lifted his head up and closed the cars front "Not good you need to take it to a garage but I can bet you anything that the nearest ones are gonna be closed" he explained, looking at Scott who just sighed in defeat.

"Ah well thanks anyways you three, but really you should get going it's getting late" Scott worried.

"What about you?"

"Pardon?" Scott asked confused, now looking at Tango who had moved to stand next to his partner.

"You can't be serious about walking alone in the dark right? especially now it's starting to spit" Jimmy argued pulling an umbrella out of his bag, while Scott opened the backdoor to grab one from under the seats.

"Come back with us Scott one of us can drop you home, we don't want you standing alone in the cold rain when it’s getting dark" Tango tried to express their concerns for him "And before you say anything, no your not intruding we'd love to have you round" He interrupted seeing the worry in Scott eyes, making sure to ignore the butterflies at the idea of Scott coming home with them.

Rev as the cherry on top ran to hug Scott tears welling up in her big pleading eyes, quietly whispered "please Mr Scott, come home with us. Don't be alone" struggling Scott looked around trying for one last escape.

"I can't leave the stuff in my car, I need it for this weekend and-"

"We can take it with us" Tango blocked his argument instancently.

"I-" and from Rev's small sniffles to the flush on his cheeks from the worried almost begging looks the two men were sending him, he gave in "fine, if you're sure it's ok..." and it was like the sun was back from how brightly the family were smiling at him.
“More than okay” Jimmy beamed, Tango matching him “let’s grab a box each and get out the rain” Rev was doing a happy jumping dance around the three boys, making Scott smile.

Oh stars above give him strength around this heartwarming family, he wishes to call his own.

Chapter Text

"Jimmy come on!" Lizzie hissed to the person behind her "we've only got so much time to explore, Sir Strawberry can only keep our absence hidden for so long." She tried to express her worries of getting caught to her brother.

"Jimmy put the damn necklace on! We can't go looking around the Queen and Prince of the empire" she again hissed at him. Both of them had been given Jewellery which could change appearance, it came in handy when they were sneaking away from their royal duties for a bit.

"I don't want to wear the necklace Lizzie" he whined to his unrecognisable sister "why can't I have the bracelet? You know i don't like necklaces"

"Jimmy if we get caught because of a stupid necklace I will not only have Lady Marcelline wrath be directed at you but I'll have to cooks make you your most hated meals for a week" she threatened.

Jimmy's eyes narrowed "you wouldn't dare"

"Put the damn necklace on and pull your hood up" she watched him give in and do as she asked. A victorious smile on her face, grabbing his hand and pulling him towards the market "come on we have until the next chime from the clock tower to explore"
_________________________________
The market and harbour was packed with people selling, buying, trading and exploring. The two siblings hadn’t been to the market for a long time since they've been so busy with their respective duties.

Lizzie tugged Jimmy's arm to get his attention "Stay close okay? If we split up just head straight to the castle, and if we run into any danger yell".

Nodding not fully paying attention Jimmy scanned the stalls they pasted, looking for anything interesting until he saw a fish stand. Tapping his sister's shoulders to get her attention "Lizzie look" pointing to the stall.

It wasn't like the other fish stall they had passed, although he was selling fish the sign stated that they were selling exotic fish.

Getting a closer look the seller, smiled at the pair and tended to another costumer while keeping an eye on the two. There were a range of many different colours, sizes and traits on all the fish.

A small gasp left Jimmy "Lizzie look" he pointed to a small pink axolotl on a higher up shelf, he remembered how his sister had always wanted one since she had first learned of them, but due to where their lived was they didn't have many around.

"This one's perfect for you" he explained watching her face light up before looking back at him with a smile "and this one's perfect for you" he followed to where she was pointing, eyes landing a young healthy looking cod who was looking up at him.

"Oh please Lizzie can we get them" he begged her.

"Excuse me sir, how many would it be for the axolotl and this cod down here?" She asked pointing to the two, the seller smiled at the pair .

"For those two? I'll let you have them for 10 gold with some starter food, free of charge! How about that?" He asked preparing the pets.

"That's lovely sir, thank you" Lizzie answered gratefully as she looked through their coin pouch "here you are sir"

"Thank you little lady. Here's your beautiful fish and your food got it?" He asked.

"Yep thank you! Have a good day" she bid him goodbye.

"Bye sir!” Jimmy yelled over his shoulder.

They sat down for a moment putting their new pets food in their backpacks, glad they weren't too heavy.

"Awww they're so cute" Jimmy squealed watching his cod swim around the bag.

"Be careful not to hurt him" Lizzie warned "we're gonna have to find a place to hide them when we get back" she thought out loud to herself.

She was broken out of her thoughts by someone yelling "should we go see?" Jimmy asked her.

"Sure why not, we've got plenty of time"

Upon see the man they could now hear what he was yelling about "a deal, it a steal. The finest jewellery in all the land! Come look as it shines beautifully in the sun!!!"

The jewels were indeed beautiful with earrings, headpieces, rings, brooches, ankle bracelets, etc. Made of different stones and metals, neatly arranged on blue velvet.

"Ah, so you have both seen the value of my goods. Come now, don't be shy take at look, a gorgeous brooch of the sea flower for the pretty lady. Have a look" he placed a water lily brooch in Lizzie hands for her to look.

But both siblings felt uncomfortable feeling stirring inside, one glance at each other and they decided to leave "no thanks, maybe next time"  she handed the jewellery back and went to leave.

"Hey wait, wait! You scratched it, I can't sell it now, you must pay for it now!" The seller screamed at the two.

"No I didn't I was careful!" She tried to argue back but the man wasn't listening.

"It's fine if it was an accident but now you're lying so pay the full price!" He shouted now starting to gather a crowd.

Seeing the people watching them Jimmy tried to de escalate the situation "how much was it?" He asked politely.

"Well because of where I got it and how you lied to me it's around 3,000 gold"

"No way! That's ridiculous!" Lizzie yelled "you're being ridiculous!"

Apparently that struck a nerve because then he forcefully grabbed Lizzie by the arm "that's it you little snakes-Someone get the guards!" He yelled.

In the midst of the chaos a hooded figure walked up to the man and patted his arm. "What?" The man snarled.

The figure now stood in front of the two siblings pulling the man and Lizzie apart. Once the man had let go the figure held up a huge coin pouch which seemed to be full.

The man looked like he was about to argue then halted for a moment looking almost pale. The two couldn't see what happened as the hooded figure had their back to them, but the figure just shook the pouch again.

"Fine!" He snatched the pouch off him "but they are banned from my shop" the figure then turned to the sibling and placed a hand of their backs and lead them way from the crowd to a more quiet spot.

"Oh oceans blessings, we can't thank you enough" Lizzie thanked their mysterious hero but the person just shrugged them off and began to walk away.

"Wait!" Jimmy yelled making the person jump "here for helping us" he placed a few gold coins in the figures hands with a smile.

The mysterious person nodded in thanks and left without a word. Jimmy turned back to Lizzie with a smile which immediately dropped, eye widened "Lizzie your hair" she no longer had dark hair and eyes, but her signature bright blue eyes and wavy pink hair.

Her face matched his "your disguise is gone" his brown hair was now turning a sandy blonde with his brown eye brightening into a sweet honey, freckles slowly revealing themselves across his face. Walking closer to him she noticed his necklace was now gone "your necklace" now looking at her wrist she gasped "my bracelet!"

In seconds it clicked what happened, and she began frantically looking around. She spotted the hooded figure making his way through the people and stalls.

"HEY! STOP!!!" Lizzie yelled. The person turned around and began to run, the two wasting no time in trying to follow them.

Jimmy dived in between people looking for spaces to run to. The occasional 'sorry’ or 'pardon me' would slip out when he'd run into people, his lungs began burning trying to keep the pickpocketer in view.

Lizzie on the other hand saw blurs with the only figures she could see clearly was the one they were chasing and the brother running alongside her. It was difficult as the figure moved through the crowd effortlessly, while she and Jimmy were like waves crashing into people only able to mumble a quick apology.

As their path became more clear she began to recognise where they were heading. The two more people began to run towards them, upon seeing them the figure took what seemed to be a short cut. "STOP YOUR BLOODY THIEF!!!" the brunette yelled.

Following the thief down the narrow path, through market streets, stalls, alleyways and greenery. Soon the 4 of them were running hot on his tail through the harbour.

The figure paused for a second to look around, giving them the chance to catch up to him "Stop and we won't call the guards!!!" The other man who had joined them yelled trying to reason with them but to no avail.

The runner looked back at their chasers before sprinting off again, Lizzie hears one of them groan behind her and they all start running again.

The group ran further into the harbor avoiding fishing nets, ropes, sparks from repairs and people shouting at them.

For a moment they lost him in the crowd, due to the time it was the busiest time making it near impossible to see just a few head in front of them.

To get a better view one of the guys, the blonde, that had joined the chace hopped onto a nearby rock, he squinted before yelling "over there!!" briefly pointing and taking off in that direction, the others hot on his tail.

Soon the thief came into view running down the wooden dock to what seemed to be a dead end with the sip at the end departing.

To their surprise though they began to speed up, closing the distance until they jumped, gabbing onto a rope hanging off the side of the ship and climbing up to an open window and crawling inside.

Determined to catch the cultrate the blonde took the lepe grabbing the rope and began climbing up, Lizzie watch is awe as he reached the window only to find it locked and so he continued to climb. She looked back to see Jimmy slowing down "JIMMY! JUMP!" she saw his eyes widened but due to the docks end quickly approaching she ignored any of his protests knowing he wont let her go alone, and she was right cause once she had a good grip on the rope she helped to grab Jimmy so he wouldn't fall.

Finally they felt the 4th person also grab the rope mumbling a curse or two.

They helped each other up onto the ships deck Jimmy turned to the blonde who had helped him and his sister up "thank you..." only to realises they hadn't introduced themselves because of the chaos.

Still trying to catch his breath the helpful stranger seemed to have come to the same realisation "Tango, nice to me you i guess" he introduced himself. A grunt from behind caught their attention, the final member of their sudden group was lay face down on the floor, trying not the laugh Jimmy and Tango looked away as Lizzie went to help.

"Oh goodness are you ok??" she worriedly asked, lifting him up by his arms.

Another groan escaped "What do you bloody think!?!?" he snapped at her, but just as quickly all the anger left once he saw who it was.

"Are you hurt anywhere?" the goddess's, or well what he thought was a goddess, gently asked him.

"I-errr-no I-I" he cleared his throat, and looked away upon realising he was staring "No i'm alright, thank you" he blushed embarrassed by how she was still checking to make sure he was ok, much to Jimmy's annoyance that this random guy was so close to his sister. "I'm Joel, by the way"

She smiled "Nice to meet you Joel, I'm-"

"Hey you lot, I think our thief is in their" Tango said pointing towards a nearby door "let give them a few choice words"

_________________________________

The group opened the door to a well kept room that had large windows across the back wall, and a few on the sides, and a few pieces of furniture such as a rug in the center of the room which had a desk at the end of it.

Stood at the desk with their back towards them was a familiar cloaked figure with the hood still covering them.

The figure turned to the sound of the door opening but flinched seeing who was at the door "surprised?" Jimmy asked.

"Give us back our stuff you stole!" Joel yelled, taking a step closer.

"You owe me and and buddies for the damages you caused" Tango exclaimed also getting closer to the thief, who seemed to be shrinking in on himself trying to appear smaller.

"You've got nowhere to go, just give us what you owe us and we can forget everything" Jimmy tries to negotiate again.

The group were now surrounding them able to see all their stole goods and more scattered across the desk spilling out of a satuale. But the thief stayed silent, growing impatient Joel grabbed the hood and yanged it off over his head.

Scared ocean blue eye began to well with tears looking around at the mix of surprised and shocked faces looking back at him. He wasn't what any of them imagened, bright wavy cyan hair framed a smooth almost a porcelain face, nothing like the face of a thief.

Suddenly the sound of a gunshot went off behind them causing them to jump out of their skin, stood at the door now pointing the gun at then was a blonde man in what seemed to be a pirate outfit.

The thief ran pass them with their guard down towards the pirate man who pulled him close to him "are you alright Scott?" 'Scott’ just nods and tries to hid further behind the man, but still able to see the group.

"So, first you’re on my ship uninvited, secondly your rummaging through my stuff and thirdly your scaring first mate" his tone of voice is calm but still has an undertone of aggression.

"We apologise sir, for the intrusion" Lizzie apologise on behalf of the group "But this man stole from all of us" she pointed an accusatory finger at Scott.

The pirate raised an unimpressed brow but sighed "fine" raising his hand in surrender "listen we'll give you your stuff back and we can forget about this whole ordeal. I'll even drop you two off at the next stop" he said looking at Joel and Tango.

"Excuse me! We can't just forget how you've stolen from us" Joel angrily yelled.

"And what do you mean the next stop? Just drop us all back at the docks, and why only them two? Why not all of us?"  Lizzie questioned.

"Yeah no can do Miss. You see the docks, well this kingdom in general isn't the most friendly of places for people like myself and first mate"

"Well you must have done something real bad than just theft if you're not welcome, this kingdom is as friendly as they get" Jimmy wondered.

His and Lizzie's father was a kind man who was loved and praised by his people even those outside of the kingdom, to the point it had become a safe space for people who have earned themselves a bad name and wanted a fresh start. So hearing this pirate say they weren't welcome made him nervous about why.

"Well we sort of have a name for ourselves, especially around these here parts" he explained, giving them no answers.

"You're still yet to answer me, why can we leave? We can't swear not to say anything" Lizzie tried to reason. They needed to get back soon otherwise their absents would begin to cause alarm.

"Well for starters you know what we look like and although it hasn't clicked yet, you'll know who we are soon enough. Secondly, by the time we make it back the security would be way more intense due the run away royalty. Isn't that right, lady Lizzie" An amused look was displayed across his face as he watched the words sink in and the sibling pair stiffen up.

Lizzie couldn't help the cold sweat that began, he knew who she really was and by the way his eyes trailed to Jimmy and his grip on her arm tightening she knew he knew Jimmy's as well.

Out of the corner of her eyes however she could see the angry yet confused faces in Tango and Joel. She mentally sighed glad they hadn't caught on yet.

"What do you want" her voice was dangerously low but the pirate merely smiled at her.

"Don't worry, we just need to borrow you for a day or two and we'll get you back safe and sound." He briefly glances at the other two "And you're new friends we'll be safe too, heck we'll give you back everything we owe you and even something more for your troubles"

"Yeah right, your words mean nothing you thieving knave" Joel spat, at an unimpressed pirate.

"He's right we can't trust a word you say, considering you've now basically kidnapped us" Lizzie rolled her eyes as the pirate tried to correct her.

"Borrowing. We intend to give you all back in one piece" he heard one of the boys muttered out an "Arsehole" and Scott placed a hand on him see that they were starting to get to the captain.

He took a breath for a second "ok fine how about this, if I swear upon the ocean with you all as my witness we that reassure you at least, because either way we ain't going back anytime soon" he offered.

Seeing they were out of option, Lizzie may as well make sure they are safe "Fine as long as you include all of our safety and that they will also be witnesses"

The captain just smiled and turned around with Scott "followed us then"
_________________________________
Jimmy couldn't believe Lizzie was actually going through with this he looked up to where she was standing on the deck with their kidnappers in a small triangle.

"Lizzie what-?" He didn't have the words to express his feelings at that moment.

"Listen right now we don't have a lot of choices but if they agree to keep us safe just until we're able to get on land again then we get find away to contact home" she explained briefly glancing towards the now open door.

"Are you sure you know what you're doing?" Tango asked unsure.

"Well it's as good as we're gonna get" was all she said before turning and following the two out the room.

"Wait so what's happening" Joel asked confused to which Jimmy just looked at him also confused, how on earth did he not know what was happening. This Joel guy was really getting on his nerves.

Tango seen this spoke up "ah right Joel's not from around here he's travelling and came to the kingdom to meet someone"

"Poor time to travel then" Jimmy huffed.

"Basically the Ocean Empire was blessed by the Ocean herself for helping her in the Great War" Tango began to explain.

"THE Great War?" Joel exclaimed, eye wide.

"Yeah, so they have a few Ocean based traditions and beliefs which have been shared out across the oceans most sea lovers and traveler's know of them, but this is one of the most popular"

Jimmy continued for him "When a promise needs to be made and they want to make sure it isn't broken they swear to the ocean to oversee that all sides keep their word, otherwise the sea is sent after them"

"Ok? But why do they need a witness when they have the literal sea herself as a witness" Joel asked.

"To proved extra proof they had done it and that they done it if their own free will. That why so many people make great decisions and promises such as wedding down at the beach, to show that just like the ocean life is unpredictable and dangerous but when they are together they can conquer anything" he finished not sure when he had started to look at or when he started looking back at him but they were still staring when he'd finished.

Realising this Jimmy quickly looked away face quickly becoming the same shade as a strawberry, oh ocean waters why was he staring for so long into those ruby eyes.

He cleared his throat and straightened up "c-come let's make sure Lizzie's ok"

The two where facing each other while Scott stood off to Lizzie's right, and the rest of the boys where facing Scott to see the whole thing clearly.

"You know what to say?" The Captain asked while Lizzie nodded.

"Then let's start. I Martyn Captain of the MeanGills, swear to Lady Lizzie and her companions that I along with my partner will keep them all from harms way whether it's from man or nature, and to return them all together to the kingdom we gained them from."

He looked making eye contact with with Scott "As the Ocean as my witness and as their protector, I swear to you that I shall keep my word until our mission is over or until my final breath" he looked back to Lizzie arm stretched out "do we gave a deal Lady Lizzie?"

She momentarily paused looking at the outstretched hand, but soon took it "We gave a deal Captain as the Ocean as our witness"

As the shook a bolt of lightning crashing behind them, seemingly out of nowhere, lightning up the sky. Jimmy saw for a brief moment that Scott's eye lit up with the sky, unblinking from where he was watching the exchange.

The two pulled back "happy?" Martyn asked.

"At least i know they're gonna be safe, and now our kidnapper has a nap" Lizzie says still unsure if she can fully trust him, then again he's literally  holding them hostage.

Martyn clapped him hand "Great! Well we're done here now, feel free to wander while we get a place ready for you all to sleep in" he explained "not like you can go away where so I wouldn't be worried about you lot trying to escape" he gestured around him to the ocean.

"What about him?" Joel nodded towards Scott, with an unsure look.

"What about him?" Martyn asked.

"Doesn't he need to do the oath, thingy as well?"

Martyn just chuckled and gave a wave "don't worry about Scott he's a pearl, despite what you may think he won't hurt a sea slug he just a sweetheart" walking over he pulled Scott into a side hug.

However, his demeanour change to something more serious, protective even "it's me you've got to worry about, nobody touches my pearl k?"

His voice sent a cold chill down everyone's spine, his warning made clear to everyone. Seeing their face a confused Scott turn to see Martyn innocently smiling at him.

Jimmy thought it was terrifying how this aggressive almost feral look wolf turn into a happy puppy wagging his tail in mere seconds. And something didn't settle right with how this pirate was interacting with this quiet doe eyed prince of the sea.

His thoughts froze. Prince of the sea? Doe eyed? What was wrong with him lately? He didn't have much time to think about it as Martyn and Scott left them on the deck alone.

Jimmy just couldn't wait to wake up from this strange dream and tell Lizzie all about it, to wake up in his bed in the kingdom still on dry land. And yet looking back at Tango, who was watching the waves, he didn't feel like waking up just yet.

Chapter Text

So……. If one was to write something with … mini life series members… what family dynamics and relationships would one enjoy seeing?? And would you like to watch the young life members grow up together or stay little???

Aka keep the life members as kids for the whole book or watch them grow up together???