Archive of Our Own

It was a quiet and rainy day.

If you were to ask Arti, the City had a really rare occasion where it fell into such complete solitude, leaving nothing more than the rain that was pouring down from the clouds above and putting the whole City in their homes.

The streets were empty to the extent of being the rare person that forgot to go home before the rain started, running around with an umbrella and making sure they reached their home to not get everything soaked.

Otherwise? The whole street was empty, the fairy lights being kept up by beautiful wooden stands that wrapped around it keeping it all alit and letting the whole form glisten.

It's as if the whole city was abandoned, but that couldn't really be said.

No one was really lonely tonight. Just from their window filled with drops, they could see a few chattering families, happy faces that chatted with people on their crystal balls and so much more.

The Artichoke had seen on their way upstairs to their apartment that some Nuts talked together, cashew nuts if they had been completely correct on the species.

There was too much variety sometimes.

But Anyway.

They all had someone to be there with and even if not, we're happy to just relax for the night.

That's where Arti was currently.

Sitting in their apartment, the Hero of many kingdoms sat in a soft red plush chair without any vines, hat or cloak for once, signing letters of thanks, gratitudes and small requests for help due to their whole reputation in pajamas.

Of course they accepted those for later. Can't let some poor Kingdom suffer from a broken Clock tower after all. Those get invested with Cuckoo-clock snakes almost all the time.

Stupid slithery cogs.

The apartment was big enough for them, being with maroon and a lot of Fairy lights up at the ceiling, hanging by string to make it almost magical to see with their giant window.

Arti liked Fairy Lights.

But anyway, getting back to the point.

The Artichoke was keeping themselves busy with letters and ink, hoping to keep up their work and perhaps in a few minutes go to bed to take a nice rain na-

Brrrrrrrr.

BRRRRRRRRRRRR-

Hm?

Arti softly perked over with their one eye.

Their Crystal ball was vibrating, sending soft circles of purple and black, pulsating in a way to bring attention to the creature that sometimes couldn't see well due to their one blind eye.

Their neck hurts sometimes from straightening their sight.

It...seemed to be an Emergency call from another kingdom nearby!

Arti almost involuntary dropped their pen, instantly grasping onto it and actually praying that this kingdom knew some sort of sign language, becauseelseitcouldnttalkpleaseknowit-

One slow breath. Okay. This is fine.

They quickly used some magic to entrap their face in vines, knowing that it wouldn't calm anyone down to see the horrific face of theirs. All ripped and open, corrupted by nature.

Urgh. They hated thinking about it.

They tapped on the crystal ball, seating it back down on the table and moving their chair so they were visible from the perspective of who was calling.

Luckily it was one of the bigger one's, so soon enough a….Onion! A bigger Onion with a purple robe and a half slipped off crown appeared, crying heavy tears and blustering about how hopeless they were.

“Sire, I….SIRE! THEY HAVE ANSWERED!”

A smaller Onion with a book in their hand told, wearing a small painters hat? That's what it looked like. And a robe as well, just less royally and in green.

The King almost immediately snapped their eyes up to the hero in question, getting the smallest wave as a response to their pleading cries for help.

“Oh, OH, I'M SO G-GL-GLAD-! Arti- I- Our kingdom-”

Alright, here goes-

Carefully as a testing process to calm the man down, Arti slowly brought their hands to their chest, moving them to their chest and away from it, telling the man….

“Breathe.”

It was a silent attempt, hoping they understood more than just the smallest basics ... .that is when the small onion flipped through the book and tapped the King's shoulder. “They have told you to try breathing first.”

And Arti found that their prayers had been answered. The small one had a book about it for safety!

The King luckily followed the reassurance and slowly got their panic in order to explain, looking up to the Artichoke once again with slight sweat and a stare of concern for their life.

“I'm so sorry…we are in a dire situation right now, it is hard to keep your…com-composure.” He apologized profusely, taking their head down for a moment before looking up again not only out of respect, but to see what they would say.

Arti shook their head, signing so that the little one could interpret.

‘It is Alright. What is the problem?’ They reassured softly, gaining the smallest of relaxation from the other side as apparently another onion snatched the crystal, putting it a few meters away….

So that they could get out a a big white paper to draw on with ink, already having illustrated the issue which was-

An infestation.

“One of the more far away sections of our kingdom has been overrun by MURDEROUS BEASTS!” The Onion looked ready to panic and cry again, but kept their composure as to go on with their statement, pointing at a creature that they…couldn't recognize.

“They ate our crops and left a giant crater there. They overgrew the houses and made their kids there. THEY ALMOST ATE OUR PEOPLE-!”

….Oh.

They had almost wanted to sign if they used guards or tried bombing them, but-

“We have tried. We have tried desperately to fight against them, but they just keep coming. They keep investing and overthrowing EVERYTHING!” At this point, the onion became hysterical, crying into what they assumed to be the King's wife. “They'll kill everryyythiiingggg-”

That.

That is an extreme emergency.

If these creatures are as aggressive as they say and took over an entire town - guessing it happened within hours or minutes or else they wouldn't call - It could not only be a downfall to the kingdom but also a huge danger to other kingdoms and the people.

They could hunt for other species. They could hurt civilization. They could actually be dangerous to the wildlife and harvest as well.

If these creatures took down entire armies, then they surely need help from someone else who knows what they're doing. With a team….and too many people on speed dial that they currently want to talk to more.

[Perhaps they're overthinking this, but they are a hero nonetheless. They need to keep up the reputation.]

….

[Help the Kingdom?]

[No]

[> Yes]

Of course they would help. It'll be a Saturday with a bit of a special perk and assortment.

So, Arti signed in response.

‘I will help you.’

The little Onion had luckily looked over and the face brightening up with hope was enough for Arti to be convinced to take this job on. “They will do it, my lord! They just signed it!”

And the King looked up with teary eyes and a spark in their eyes that wasn't previously there, holding their little onions hands in excitement and to calm them down by…kinda crushing their hands.

Poor kid.

“Oh, Thankyouthankyou- These…creatures have only taken one town and we evacuated for what we know…everyone. We need them dead and no worries, we checked- They have hundreds of nests everywhere else, so this isn't an extinction call but we still don't know what they are-!”

The Onion was rambling at this point, but Arti didn't mind and could really use the reassurance that they are doing the right thing to exterminate this huge mess of a generation.

Yet they couldn't help but…recognize some features in the drawing. The fur. The badly drawn tail. Perhaps they've seen it before.

…Probably. They see monsters everyday. Must have passed by once or twice.

They finally got to a closure.

“You will need more than four people, though. These things…aren't merciful. Try getting more people. Even if there are too many when you get there, everything's better than being unprepared in that hell hole.” The Big Onion almost pressed down a snarl at the word, not even wanting to mention anymore of the mess that is going on.

“We will give you an exclusive room to plan with your team once you arrive. The whole Kingdom thanks you dearly for your attempt to help us. Thank you, Arti.” The King actually took a small bow with the smaller Onion, signing a soft thank you just for them.

They…truly appreciated it.

So, they signed back a small ‘No Problem’, giving a reassuring smile as the crystal ball finally vanished to its usual lava lamp looking state.

….

You know.

Arti was actually really fucking nervous right now.

It wasn't like they didn't do this kind of stuff before. They fought dragons and Wizards for someone's sake, this shouldn't be that different of a mission-!

But. The mention of an entire town being invested with some kind of….entity to the point no one can be called but the hero because their fearing death and full on destruction of their kingdom-

Yeah. You'll get some worries here and there.

Arti composed their breathing for a minute themselves, quietly pulling their knees closer to their chest and making sure that they weren't gonna start crying like the Onion.

It’s just another mission. It's nothing special. Nothing's gonna die. It's….it’s not deciding the fate of hundreds of kingdom's. It's fine.

I'm okay.

….One slow exhale was released from their mouth. 

They'll be okay. They can do this. First things first, they should get in contact with the people with good skills and abilities that are most familiar with them.

Arti slowly moved forward, moving the colors in the big crystal to slowly call up the person that had been like a father and taught them sign language and all that so, so long ago-

Brrrrrr…..

Brrrrrrrr ….

Brrrrr- Click!

“Hello, Wizzro here?”

That voice brought them so much peace right now, YOU CANNOT BELIEVE.

‘Hello, Wizzro.’ They immediately signed more fluently, not having to go slow for someone else because they didn't know what it was practically heaven in this case.

Innerly they stayed silent from calling Wizzro Papa.

“Ah, Arti! My big child! How have you been?” His expression changed to one of delight and happiness, sitting down on the table more properly as he took the ball closer and looked at the Artichoke in front of him.

Arti didn't have an expression due to the vines and with no voice, one couldn't tell the shakiness that it would have provided, but the body language and the slight imperfectness of the signing?

It made some instincts come.

“Is something wrong?”

Damm it.

Arti silently leaned back in their chair, crossing their arms as they truly considered telling Wizzro what they had just been told from another kingdom. An invasion. An soon-to-be-apocalypse if they don't stop it.

….From what they can assume at least. 

Overthinking. Hate it.

‘...Need help. A big emergency. I need your small group.’ The signing was more frantic, trying to keep itself composed to not make the signing incomprehensible and unreadable to the only one who could actually help them.

They hated being not as composed as always.

‘Karoto. Brocco. Nabiu. Anyone you have, even the ones only Nabiu and so on knows.’ They have been…specializing in new signs for everyone, making sure that the names can be understood and so they don't have to sign every letter every time.

It was also giving them creative boosts, so it was all good.

Wizzro had his eyes widened but gave a quick nod, standing up and from a distance seeming to talk for someone to come over. Perhaps he's getting them. Please.

They can't do this with just Tomaria and Cameron.

Arti isn't having a crisis over a potential kingdom ending threat, what are you talking about, THEY'RE NOT OVERTHINKING, S H U S H.

But soon enough, Wizzro returned with many questioning voices, which they could luckily identify due to their past experiences and because…they are the closest people they know beside their own teammates.

Despite being a hero, Arti doesn't have that many contacts outside of a few kingdom's, but that really isn't reliable enough. They need people who they can trust and know about.

Or others know about. That counts too.

“Hey, Arti! Haven't seen you in a while!”

Karoto.

Karoto. They had him in their own team in the past for three years, but ...complications happened. A lot of betrayal assumptions that sure, were once true, but…..God, it's complicated.

Short story? Both did their wrongs. They both are better now. Arti will listen before judging on others sayings. They're sorry for forcing him to leave their team.

End of story.

They very much hoped they were a good parent figure nowadays, since they probably weren't that good in the past if they…acted like that.

They're rambling again.

Almost forgot to sign.

‘Good to see you too, p. Karoto.’ They halfway stopped singing that first name. It would be unfair to call him that since they weren't that close like before.

Now, another little sweet voice came in with a blue head, happily showing in the camera with a smile and the yellow hat they wore that day. There even came in another figure who barely fit in the picture, but was green and big.

The first one was Nabiu.

Nabiu was a sweet girl and a wonderful assistant to fill their old position at Wizzro. They were very excitable and from what they know, truly excellent at magic.

Kid will go far, they know it. Better than them in public too.

“Hello, Miss Arti!” Nabiu responded kindly, getting some help with Karoto to see over the table with a stool, happily patting their hands on said wooden surface.

A soft nod was made in response and they silently noted the last one, quietly questioning who the person in the glass ball was.

Brocco from what they heard.

A rather polite guard and one of the leaders of said broccoli kingdom, having decided to take a rest at Wizzro, mostly to watch Karoto to not do crap but to also get away from the constant stress of being a guard.

Can completely understand that.

‘It is good to see all of you.’ They signed, knowing that all of them had the knowledge to understand sign language for different reasons.

Wizzro out of interest, Karoto to understand Arti in the past, Broccoli to understand all the folk around him and Nabiu not only out of curiosity but to experience around with languages.

“Now, what's the emergency Wizzro mentioned, if I may ask?” Brocco spoke up, kneeling down at a level so he could be seen as well. Arti respected him a lot.

He was one of the kindest guards they know.

But back to the main business.

‘Yes- There's an emergency at a nearby kingdom talking about an infestation of a dangerous armada of some mysterious creatures.’ The Artichoke signed fluently, wanting them to understand the danger the situation could be bringing to them all.

…It's fine. They'll win. They can prepare. They shouldn't worry.

‘So dangerous in fact….that we need more than me, Tomaria and Cameron. I'm anticipating if you agree, it'll be 7.’ They hoped that they would agree, but talked just a bit more. “But we also need all the assistance we can get. So, if you agree to this or not…I'd there anyone I can write letters to asking for help?’

Arti had not noticed how frantic and desperate the signing was before they almost accidentally hit their hands together too hard with a flinch. 

They almost wanted to force out a silent please out of their broken mouth, but they didn't want to plead.

It's a choice, not a forced decision.

There was a hint of silence as they looked between each other, Arti catching soft glances of concern and whispers to each other before they turned back to the desperate Hero.

…..And they nodded in agreement.

“Of course we'll help you, my dear. You don't have to worry.” Wizzro's voice was warm and gentle, lulling them somewhat into a space of warmth and reassurance. It helped their stress a lot.

They didn't have to do this alone. They could do it. They can perhaps soothe their anxiety for a bit.

Nabiu almost immediately shot up after, hitting her hands against the wooden table as she practically sparkled from excitement. “Oh! I'm getting an intern friend! She would probably love to use her chemistry, oh, I'm so excited, this is gonna be-”

She walked out of sight and hearing distance while speeding off to find her friend.

• They adore her.

“Oh yeah, I could…definitely get you Lemlo and so on's locations, godwemettoomanypeople-” Karoto murmured under his breath for once as he wrote down some papers with a magic pen Wizzro gave him.

“Hey, it'll be okay. Like Wizzro said, we'll help you.” Brocco spoke up too, giving a reassuring thumbs up while still in his armor. Wizzro spoke up too. “Of course! You just tell us where to go for the whole operation planning.”

They all sounded so ready to help.

….Aherodoesntcrytheyarentgonnasoboverthisdammit.

‘Thank you. Truly.’ Arti finally signed back before writing down the coordinates of the location, opening up a part of the crystal ball and closing it up again-

-IT OPENS LIKE A POKEBALL- 

-Which sends it over to the caller's ball, which is Wizzro…meaning now that he's opening it up, the note was in there! And Karoto put in his note, so as Arti opened up the ball-

And Voilà. The notes where all their friends lived belonged to Arti.

It is less complicated than it sounds, trust me.

Arti sighed very softly as she started to wave goodbye, knowing that many letters have to be written, which means many preparations and calls and work and-

“Take care of yourself, Arti. Alright?” 

Wizzro. Oh Wizzro.

Oh Papa, why. Why must you be such a sweetheart.

‘....I will.’ Arti couldn't smile back with the vines across their face, but they slowly waved goodbye with Wizzro as the crystal ball finally turned off and returned to its normal colors. 

……

There is so much work to do.

Three? Three letters to write to others. They need to call Tomaria and Cameron. They need to prepare everything and plan out the overall plan of attack.

If they don't do this right, entire kingdoms could be overrun. People would be disappointed.

All their efforts gone to waste.

…

…It's fine. It's fine.

Get to work first. complain later. It'll be alright.

Just get to work.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

“FRAGARIAAAAAAAAAAAAA-”

The yell could be heard across the entire house as the little strawberry flinched, looking over to where the noise came from while still holding a red potion.

Mostly meant for fire.

“Fragaria, Fragaria, WE SHALL DO SOMETHING GREAT!” The source came from an excited blueberry across the hall, coming up at her as if she just found the best rock in existence.

…That happened last week. Admittedly, it was an amazing star-shaped one.

“W-Wha- uhm…What are we doing-?” She hesitated on answering but came closer to her friend, holding the potion in one hand while it was still safely closed by a cork.

“Okay, sooo apparentlytheresanlifethreatheninginvasionandwegottastopitbutthepersonreallyneedsmoreofusandyouhaveexplosivesSOOOOOOOO-” Nabiu sometimes spoke so fast, so please excuse her if you didn't understand a single thing she just said.

“Want to come along on an adventure?” It sounded like such an innocent thing if you'd not properly read or heard what happened in that previous sentence….which sadly happened to Fragaria.

She perked slightly, silently thinking and considering it as she spun the potion in her hand.

Honestly, she was…never the brave type. She usually stayed behind, making amazing potions for the others to use for their cool fights! Basically the perfect supply maker!

But it wasn't like there was no curiosity in seeing what it was like to be on an Adventure like Nabiu’s. Last time a chair search became a lycan fighting extension.

….Perhaps this could be nice? Fragaria could just stay behind for a bit and catch up properly when she has seen what they could do! Then the intern would join in and help with her potions!

This could even help her get out of her very well crafted shell. Too well crafted. Literally.

“Uhm. Sure! Let me just pack up, if it's, uh- Alright?” The strawberry gave a nervous smile in response but the Blueberry happily jumped up and down in the response. “Of course! Take your time, tomorrow we will go!”

Nabiu vanished as fast as she arrived, already swooping over the next victims to question….even if most were declined due to understanding what she had said previously.

So Fragaria slowly started to make more potions to put in a bag.

This will be nice.

Hopefully.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

It was very early morning when most of these letters arrived at their time and place.

…It was a cold morning, but a comfortable one too.

Lemlo hung gently upside down in her cave, letting the rocks help her safely go to sleep without hitting head first into the concrete below her.

They looked like their legs were stuck but she could always leave them whenever she wanted, that really wasn't one of the problems over here. She even got cool markings with it!

Or weird ones. Who likes markings?

One would say the caves are too cold, but it was jussst the right temperature for her to stay in...so, relaxing was a way for her to escape the stresses of life.

Hey, perhaps someone even goes for the small stand she has there with power ups. Let's hope nobody steals. Would be bad, but perhaps she deserve-

Knock. Knock.

The lemon bat growled silently as one of her wings unfolded itself, blaringly rubbing her eyes and slowly opening them up all together just for safety. It was autumn afteral, natural predators could come from everywhere.

They really didn't want to get up for it, but you can't really prevent it, so with a quick swing of her feet she stared over, ready to attack anyone who wanted to enter her cave with an intention of harm-

….but only seeing a small yellow-ish paper on the ground, folded in with a red sting and sickle in green.

Huh?

The lemon raised an eyebrow. Who put that letter-? Especially for a freak like her?

She closed her eyes at that thought but proceeded forward, slowly tapping her way through the cave to said letter laying on the ground, asking to be picked up.

Slowly she kneeled down, carefully checking for any visitors that could have used this as bait, but. No one was nearby to even witness it beside the cold, some birds and the leaves that fell every now and then.

One wing moved over to the paper, picking it up and undoing the string, watching the paper unfold more and more….until it finally opened up, to which Lemlo straightened so she can finally read what-

….what.

‘Dear Lemlo. I am in need of your assistance. From your adventures with Nabiu and Karoto, it has been mentioned that you're really great at flying and growing plants.’

‘A Kingdom's town has been invaded with dangerous creatures that we can only defeat if we have more people, so I ask of you to join us in our quest.’

‘It is alright if you decline. It is not a must, but an ask if you want to.’

‘Sincerely. Arti.’

….What?

Excuse me?

She blinked several times to read what she had just witnessed in front of her eyes, redoing several sentences and especially the request too- to join a group to stop an infestation-?

Why would they want you? It doesn't make sense. Your not good enough-

Give it a moment.

Lemlo seriously gave this a thought to decline.

She couldn't do this-! She wasn't that great. She only had a few items and chlorokinesis! These creatures could hit her out of the sky in seconds, completely flopping the missions and- and….

….But these people ask for help. Wouldn't it be bad if an entire kingdom suffers just because Lemlo feared to go? The letters said that it only works with more people and if no one comes beside her because-

….hmpf. This is- so complicated.

She thought some more as she looked ahead.

It is currently peaceful here. Nothing has come to serious harm at all but perhaps if she doesn't contribute to this, it could cause serious harm to the forest.

Nobody appears to have an idea what these creatures truly are. So if they actually are really dangerous, they could pose a threat not to just her, but to everyone.

And perhaps she can gain some confidence? He doesn't know. Or she doesn't. Doesn't matter, she'll do this for the people- probably-?

You already made your decision, stop hesitating like a coward then.

Yep, she's convinced.

Now where did leave her items for preparation-

[<•••••••••••••••>]

Two of the letters landed deep in the forest, the first going to a small nut with a quick reaction for swinging their katana.

Tai sat on a sturdy branch as she looked up to the many trees that blocked some of the sky.

They had lost their leaves, so soon enough she would have to find more sturdy shelter than the woods for the coming season of winter…luckily she was experienced with the change of season.

There were a few towns nearby, perhaps she could find a passing Inn….after all, she had the money to fully support herself with a room and probably some good food. Perhaps even-

THUMP.

….

Her reflexes were unmatched.

Without looking, she had hit something against the tree with her sword, splicing it right in the middle so it couldn't harm anyone nearby.

But…she seemed to have missed just a bit.

An Oniling - Which is like a Reedling, but an onion - had flinched away in fear, squeaking as they flew away to their next visitor that wouldn't kill them on sight.

So what did they-

… Oh.

A simple letter that now had a freshly cut hole in the middle was stuck in the tree, matched with the symbol of a nearby kingdom she didn't quite recognize.

But her name was on it, meaning that it is probably meant for a sturdy nut like her!

With careful hands she ripped the sword out of the tree [silently apologizing under her breath], took out the letter from the now slightly stained sword and opened it up.

She read with slight curiosity.

‘Dear Tai, I wish to call you for an emergency as I heard from a blueberry vine that you're quite experienced with that sword of yours.’

‘ A kingdom's town has been invaded with a huge threat, threatening to hurt many other kingdoms and infest this one if we do not find a way to stop it. I need more people than usually, and I hoped you would help with this infestation . ‘

‘Please remember that you're not forced to join, it would just be appreciated.’

‘Sincerely. Arti.’

…Hm.

That's one sudden notice.

She was a bit surprised she was held up that highly by the Carrot and blueberry, but she also didn't mind at all being called for an emergency…and hey!

Perhaps they had something like an Inn in that kingdom she could stay at for much longer for a reward!

Even if she would do it without one regardless.

With a hop, she jumped down from the large tree, sliding off it and onto the grassy floor as she went to run in the direction that the now more calm Oniling flew too.

Might as well save a kingdom!

[<•••••••••••••••>]

The last letter landed deeper in the forest, in a tiny secluded area where fairies lived together in peace….

Lily hummed happily to herself as she walked around the heavily covered forest, staring up at the sky and seeing the birds happily chattering around.

Her other friends were currently busy doing some Berry hunting, so she was currently all alone and ready to take on some adventure if she's bored!

….Well, that would be true if she didn't take a glance at something shiny hanging on a balloon in the sky.

How did that balloon get all the way here? Perhaps it's made from some specific animal or an invention?

Hm.

She very carefully kneeled on one leg, taking out her bow as she noted that the balloon started to rotate in circles just near her. She carefully took out one of the bows that was just sharp enough to pop the ball on but not damage whatever was hanging on it.

….focus…

Focus…..

…..

SWISSSSHH-

P O P-!

There we go!

The Balloon popped, slowly letting go whatever it was holding-

Which was a letter in a green moss texture!

“And- There!”

The letter was quickly caught in her hands and unraveled, opening up the envelope and reading what's inside.

‘Dear Lily, I wish to call you for assistance. A certain carrot told me that you know your way around with a bow?’

‘There has been an infestation in a nearby onion kingdom and it’s in desperate need of help, which we can only do if we have enough people…like you.’

‘You don't have to go, but it would be much appreciated. But please, do whatever you will.’

‘Sincerely, Arti.’

….

Huh.

That wasn't on her daily agenda.

She quietly sat down on a nearby grass petal, re-reading the finely lined ink that has been splattered onto the page for everyone to read.

An infestation? One of the most she knew was either Lycan's, which seemed to pop-up a lot here recently-

Or simply plants like weed that grew everywhere and had to be removed…or that one Venus flytrap infestation.

That one was hell.

….Perhaps this will be good training. And besides, she would love to see Karoto and Nabiu again after all!

She just needed to quickly tell Dorago where she was gonna go for safety.

With that, she decided to head for her friends, wanting to warn them that she's going to be on an Adventure for a while to save a kingdom!

It'll be simple, for sure.

….

For sure.

[<•••••••••••••••>]

 A bit of preparation was made at Wizzro's, awaiting to go on this small journey.

Wizzro huffed quietly to himself as everything got packed together, readjusting his cloak and packing up some healing items for safety.

“Everything going well, Lemon?”

Brocco had joined in too, watching curiously and having been sharpening up his sword for the past hour to make sure it was at its sharpest once they got there.

A quiet sigh left Wizzro as he turned to the sun rising on a new day, shining onto a land that could soon be in danger from an unknown species.

The Mentor leaned back a bit.

“Yes, Yes…I'm just worried. Arti usually doesn't call me when there's an emergency for a threat.”

Arti doesn't call at all sometimes.

They go over and face life threatening threats that he has to hear about over the newspaper. Once he gets to the house, they proclaim it was nothing with a bandage around their arm.

….One could just be worried why this one was so serious.

The lead guard noticed this and sighed, coming up behind Wizzro and patting the back in a rhythmical manner to calm the old man down.

“Wiz, It'll be fine. Arti knows what they're doing, and hey. This time you'll be with them in case anything happens.”

The eyes of the other quietly matched with the helmet of the Broccoli, watching him before simply plugging out a loose green strand from the big afro looking head.

“...Right. Thank you.”

The two shared a soft gaze for a moment, almost smiling at each other…Before a very annoyed carrot came in.

“OKAY, WHO MISPLACED MY GUITAR-”

    -              -     - -  -           - -

-     -    -    - -  - — ----------

     — -  - -

LOADING ONION KINGDOM . . .

[Tip: Estatoc fruits usually grow on bushes! Just be careful, you can easily stick to them due to their slimy nature and be more vulnerable to enemy attacks.]

            -            -      -

–   -    -   -         -

    -- - 

Arti sighed to themselves silently.

“Toma, Don't lean over so much-”

“Ehhh, It'll be FinHEQARG-

“I TOLD YOU-”

While the Hero was quietly sorting papers, their friends had been…looking around the new room for quite a bit, admiring the brown-ish/Red-ish wood that had been carved in some rather beautiful ways.

There were so many papers hung up everywhere, a board where more papers and stuff could be hung too, a big wooden round wooden table that extended more in the long variety to find everyone there-

There was a big map on it with some statues to make it accurate, small circles where people could sit and put their arms on to not damage any of it.

The wooden chairs were rather fancy too, with red velvet carpet on the seat and back of it.

Arti has been standing by a huge board, covered in older yellow-ish paper that they had been drawing illustrations for the team and the incites that…hopefully was gonna come.

The lights up there were simple, but gave a rather warm, yellow glow from above….

And then there were their teammates.

There first was Tomaria, a happy and rather excited Tomato who was a healer bomber! Which meant that she had bombs that could heal like no other bomb-

Which she did mix up sometimes, but that happened. They didn't mind it at all.

And there's Cameron, the cream coloured wolf who was a rather clamped and stoic Rouge with a hammer! He knew how to be a leader when Arti can't be.

Also, if they remembered right…they had been a cousin to that little wolf at Wizzro's.

What were the two doing right now?

Well, Tomaria was stuck in a barrel from leaning in too far and Cameron was trying to pull her out by the leg. These two were best friends. Only best friends.

Literally. They can't imagine being with each other in any way, it's hilarious whenever people think that and they have to restrain a snort.

But to get to the issue at hand-

Arti walked over with a hum, towering over both them as Cameron got the cue to grab onto the barrel so that the Artichoke could grab the tomato and-

Yoink.

“IM ALIVE-”

“Course you are, you were just stuck in a barrel!”

Tomaria huffed as she finally got on the ground, which had the same wooden texture as the walls and left her to stand there with ease.

“Thanks, you two…anyway, I think I left a bomb in there-”

“DON’T DO IT AGAIN, YOU-”

Arti sighed under their breath.

In a few minutes, everyone should come, sitting down and getting to discuss the plan while Tomaria and Cameron interpret the sign language for them.

In a few minutes, everyone will be staring at them and expecting absolute perfection and reassurance that everything will be alright.

In a few minutes, Arti will simply be a hero.

…That's how it is.

Nobody needs to see their inner panic.

Nobody-

Clink.

“Arti?”

“OH, YOU FOUR-!”

The first were Wizzro, Brocco, Nabiu and Karoto.

“Oh, it's filled here-” “Yeah! I know, just sit down here-” “Karoooo, i’ll sit beside you!” “Mhm, yeah, gimme a minute-”

The voices blurred together for a moment as they noted how many people it is, having counted before and not counting again.

7.

7.

Just 7.

….it's finetheotherswillcometheyneedtoothiswill beneoughright-

“Hey, Arti! You alright? You're usually more akin to patting my head on arrival.”

Karoto's sweet voice brought them out of their panicked state that no one could see. The voice that chuckled right after as the Broccoli scolded him lightly while he objected.

So many little details that they remembered, so many little movements and they couldn't help but do as the little carrot mentioned.

A gentle hand rested on top of his head and ruffled the hair, getting a giggle out of the little carrot which made their heart swell.

Just like back-

…

No. Don't even think about it. You don't deserve it. Not any of it. Never any of it.

‘You're the first ones here.’

The signing was only the slightest bit shaky, but it was forced down so much that it just seemed like natural fast signing….they hoped.

They really hoped.

Wizzro stood up once more. He had a soft smile on his face and opened his arms up, looking up to the child he raised and now was much bigger than him.

…Arti would never decline a hug from Wizzro.

Two gentle arms wrapped around the yellow robe, just engulfing the old man in warmth due to their cloak also kind of wrapping around him.

Everything about the Artichoke was so big-

But that wasn't the point. Not at all.

They quietly let go and got a thumbs up from Wizzro, who got back to talking to his broccoli friend. Karoto and Nabiu had started talking to their teammates too.

Karoto looked…laid back with his old friends. Even if he bickered with Cameron, it was friendly bickering that both had probably missed.

Nabiu had actually pulled out some crayons and coloured a healing bomb with Tomaria, talking about random potion facts to get settled in.

…They couldn't help but be happy about the fact that they wouldn't be bothered while they kept sketching on the board, quietly drawing out the plan.

Taking in everyone's roles. Making sure that everyone got something to do. Making plan B's and keeping in little details-

The Artichoke wished though that the Onion kingdom could have provided them with any drawings or information about the monster, but any guard they talked to just-

Shut…down. Not a single answer beside a flinch and a stuttery mess. Anyone who got close got attacked by these things.

And now, there wasn't any time to waste even if Arti did know a spot where they could watch safely, but they would get to that when-

Clink. Clink.

“IMSOSORRYIMLATE-” “Hey, it'll be alright…”

A strawberry and a nut - which technically are both nuts, but I'm not explaining that - came in…that must be Tai and Fragaria.

Okay, that makes 9.

‘Hello-’

Arti tried to wave and greet in sign language but both suddenly flinched as they noticed the giant Artichoke before them, shivering silently while the nut carefully grabbed for their katana.

They were scared.

Of course they were.

“Wha-what are-are….”

It didn't hurt it didn't hurt theiramonsterthisisnormalthisisnormal-

“Please, don't be scared. It's just how they look. Are you gonna judge them for that?”

Oh thank Cameron .

The wolf had stepped forward, looking down with a judging stare as the strawberry looked scared but a bit guilty…and the nut rather surprised.

But a small apologetic smile formed on their lips as they reached out a hand to take.

“Oh, sorry. You're…Arti then? You look rather big.”

Fragaria looked over with a shaky gaze but nodded, very carefully pulling out a hand too as a greeting and apologized silently under their breath.

They couldn't blame them.

The fruit shook the little nut's hands, noticing how tiny and vulnerable they were. They…are understandably scared of them.

Nobody could even see the face with the many vines wrapped tightly around it.

Cameron decided to translate the signing that came after.

“It's alright. The high difference is scary.” Cameron simply hummed, trying to make a nice and polite voice to show that Arti is in no way an aggressive person.

It was all alright. It was just-

“FRAGARIAAAAAA! TAAAAII!”

Nabiu crushed the two nuts in a hug, one letting out a squeak and the other a huff when their chest was crushed into mush from the intense hug.

“Hey, haven't seen you in a while, Tai!” 

Karoto fist bumped the little nut, chuckling to himself as the Tomato came beside Cameron to inspect the newcomer's presence.

“Ohhh, where did you meet those?”

“Oh, well Fragaria is an intern of Wizzro's and Tai is a long story, so what happened was-”

So much talking.

So many voices that ruptured their brain as everyone sat down somewhere, trying to focus on one end at a time.

Fragaria was talking to Wizzro…

“I'm…sorry, again. I was packing up my potions and-”

“Now, now. It's alright. We all came after each other, you aren't late at all!”

“Oh…?”

“Let's just sit down and discuss some things while we wait for the others, alright?’

“Well…uhm. If you s-say so!”

Mm..m…mm….

Alright, another one to cool it down.

Tai, Tomaria and Karoto were talking.

“Whoa, so you know how to handle a Katana?! SINCE HOW LONGGG-?!”

“Oh- I have been aware of it since I was a small kid. My…mom taught me.”

“OHHHH, THATS SO COOL-”

“Hm, sure. Whatever sounds cool to you.”

“Pfff, YOU can't handle a Katana, Orange!”

“I can handle my guitar.”

“Well, yeah but yAOWWWW-”

…She got hit square over the head with a guitar.

They restrained a snort out of respect and went back to drawing. The talking made a great white noise for their work, quietly lulling them into a state of relaxation.

Just working, just relaxing…it's just another day.

It'll be alright.

Cameron was quietly cleaning off his hammer as they noticed, chatting along with the Broccoli and wizard as they listened to that next.

“You need to make sure to clean under it too, especially because it's wood.”

“I…see.”

“What do you mean by that, if I may ask?”

“The wood can get a bit dirty and bugs can crawl in it. It can make it weaker and over all? I want my hammer to be in top condition for this.”

“Ah, Of course.”

“I also clean my spear often.”

“I know! It's always clean and sharp. Very sharp-”

“You cut yourself on it accidently once.”

“Pff- Really?”

“IT WAS ACCIDENTLY-”

….Heh.

A small smile crept onto their lips that no one could see, silently rubbing their arm to keep themselves stable and paced, looking at the drawings again.

It was rather simple, but it would be enough to get at what they are gonna do. People will of course also ask to do specific things or ask questions, that's handled too.

They are a hero.

They always know what to do.

And-

Clink.

“....Hello? Is this the right Place?”

That must be…..

“LILLLLLLLLYYYY-”

“NABIU, N O-”

Karoto could not stop the onslaught on the fairy's body, pretty much getting crushed into a hug…from both sides, as Tomaria decided to join in.

They had to be pulled away by Tai and Cameron, quietly getting sighs but at least a warm pat from Tai as a reassurance.

“Ah, yes! I'm happy to be here, who sent the- l…letter..?”

It was always them that got the dirty looks. The scared ones. The one that slowly gripped their weapons tighter.

“Don't even- This is Arti.”

Someone always had to say something to make those hands lose tension.

Because their own throat didn't allow a proper voice.

Arti suddenly felt the lack of energy through their hateful body, but forced up a proper wave that was simply registered back with a nervous one.

Nobody could see proper body language or face expression with the cloak and vines.

They didn't need to.

It's not their fault.

The Artichoke for once didn't reply, simply waiting the next five minutes and listening to the conversations as they finished up the next drawings.

….Tai, Lily, Fragaria-

“So, you have been an Intern for how long?”

“Uhm…a few months. It's nice at Wizzro's though! Lots of potion craft.”

“Interesting! I only heard from Nabiu a bit…are you two partners?”

“Well, sometimes we partner up-! But not specifically partners. We just work in the same internship!”

“Well, that's nice… Have you ever tried using a katana?”

“Tai, I don't think you should give random children a katana.”

“Why not.”

“COMMON L O G I C.”

Arti weirdly found comfort in hearing all these banters. They were all just fitting to each other, a massive puzzle that fit together perfectly and would make a great team!

Just that sometimes, one puzzle piece wasn't put in right and just didn't fit in.

That happens.

It'll fit in somehow.

Scritch…

The final drawing has been made.

With a sigh, they looked back at everyone in the room happily talking. Nobody seemed upset at all, even Cameron had the smallest smirk on his face and snickering along.

Ruining the mood was gonna be the Artichoke's job.

Due to the fact that they didn't want to use their horrid face, they clapped their hands loudly and signed, alerting their two teammates.

“Ah! Everyone sit down, the meeting starts!”

Tomaria put in the effort to immediately translate it, snickering along as everyone got their place on the table. The four family members on the right, the four past team members on the left-

Actually three, perhaps the lemon didn't want to come-

Anyway, Cameron and Tomaria stayed on each of their sides, giving a thumbs up as they were ready to interpret any words they signed towards them.

The hero appreciated it deeply, humming a silent tone.

But before they could get a single sign in-

Creeeeeekkkkk-

The door was slowly opened, letting everyone's heads snap over to the source as Nabiu even stood up from the chair to watch who entered.

“Uhmm….hello…?”

“LEMLO!”

There was the missing member of their group.

Lemlo, the lemon bat that Arti had been worrying about had finally arrived to fill that empty seat.

“Oh, so you're Lemlo? I heard about you through Nabiu.” 

Fragaria hummed as the nervous lemon started to walk around the table to her seat, sweating like she just ran across the fields to get here.

An appreciative huff left her throat as Lily stood up for a moment to bring the seat back, respecting her group as the little bat pretty much slumped into the chair.

She gently waved to her two friends, getting a simple hand gun from Karoto and a happy wave from Nabiu.

“Why are you so late, if I can ask?”

Tai tilted her head to the side, gathering a flinch from the bat who was currently wiping her sweat away. Luckily, Wizzro always had some paper towels with him.

There was a gentle nod between them and a whispered thanks as Lemlo wiped her face, before quietly noting the question that was asked.

“O-Oh! I got l..lost on the way here. I've never been here before.”

….

The little fear in the bat's eyes when they looked at them once again.

Again. And again. And again.

It's fine. They'll just shove it to their other resentments.

A few of them started to talk in rapid manners again, seeming to pick up the conversation as they felt something sting in their stomach.

They wasted so much time. Are they wasting it? They still need to leave today.

Then-

S L A M-!

“EVERYONE! I know we love to chat, but this important!”

Oh, Tomaria. Please save them from this hell.

The entire room shut up once again as Cameron simply motioned to look at the board, FINALLY getting to a point where they could start a meeting.

Took long enough.

Now, to finally start.

They started to sign their words, simply letting the flow take over while his fellow teammates and friends did the talking for the one without a face.

“I am thanking you for coming here today. I truly appreciate that you all came here to help me on the infestation that has gotten over one of this kingdom's towns and has the risk of spreading.”

Arti simply turned around while Tomaria spoke, rolling out the paper board to show a drawing of the taken over landscape, halfway there to be destroyed by mysterious black creatures.

Tai perked up quietly, raising an arm to show she had a question.

“Do we know what kind of threat we are dealing with?”

It was an understandable question, but sadly Arti had to shake their head at it, letting Cameron continue on.

“Sadly not. We have been looking for more information but people sadly do not share…we only got a few sketches to go off from.”

A quiet nudge and Tomaria helped Arti pull down the next paper, showing the indescribable creature that was being represented to the team.

A few gasps came from the side, some of the more intellectual ones studying it immediately as the thing seemed to be resembling something in the greener and purple levels.

“It has something like a big Ankylosaurus tail!” 

Nabiu spoke up in excitement, liking her dinosaurs as she pointed at the rather big looking tail, where spikes seemed to point out of it…or whatever they tried to draw.

Arti truly wasn't sure if it was copied correctly. They just wanted to match the sketches.

“It's probably a predator, especially for their massive shape and scales to protect and attack others.”

Wizzro chimed in, getting a nod from Arti as they simply let any questions or answers fly in to perfectly prepare for what's to come, even if it's unpredictable.

Always prepare for a hundred scenarios and plans.

“Does…u-uhm…do..”

A quiet voice broke through the mumbles and chattering in-between, getting Arti's attention as they turned their head to the lemon once again.

They tilted their head and softly nudged, giving a sign that they did indeed notice Lemlo.

While there was hesitation, the question was eventually spoken in that soft voice.

“Do we…know how they operate in any way?”

“Yeah, I need to know if they can fly in any way-!”

Lemlo and Lily both spoke one after another, having two questions that fit together for Arti's needs as they started to sign.

“A bit. From previous notes from the king, we know that they attack in herds very often, always coming in heavy masses to protect one another.”

Arti felt the slightest sense of familiarity by that. Hm.

“While they seem to not have the ability to fly, they are quite agile and can use their tails to attack others at will! Yet that can also be a weakness in the huge masses, being able to hit each other!”

Tomaria’s excitement softly peaked through, heavily pointing at the paper and giggling before getting a slight flush at Arti’s unseeable stare.

“Sorry, Arti-!”

A soft shake of the head, but only in soft amusement as they let Tomaria speak for a bit more.

“They charge, bite, are spikey and probably will need to be kept distance from, so staying at a distance is very important! Remember that!”

Karoto leaned back against the chair with a sigh, murmuring something as he put his feet on the table while Nabiu wrote down some of these facts in her book.

Cameron decided to continue interpreting for Arti, flipping over another piece of paper to show the town more closely,

“We will fight in the garden crater, as it gives plenty of space for attacks and makes us able to control the room the Artichoke’s fight in, always keeping the entire herd close.”

This time, Arti actually walked forward, walking over to Lemlo and putting a hand on her shoulder.

“Lemlo will be the one overseeing the Area from above, helping out if needed.”

Lemlo snapped her head over in surprise, but slowly relaxed as she thought deeper over the role and how she logically is the only one that could do it.

“I-I’ll be as observant a-as I can.”

She replied in a soft voice, giving a reassuring gaze that Arti could believe in.

And Arti continued on to the others.

“Lila, Nabiu, Tomaria, Fragaria and Karoto. You have to keep your distance as most of your weapons work in more far away ranges and will benefit the team in that way.’ A soft breath from Cameron before he continued along with Arti. “Just make sure that once you're at the edge of the crater, falling off is a risk one needs to be careful about.”

They quietly looked at each other, but quiet nods were exchanged as Lila spoke up again, adjusting her Rob and rubbing her bow to.make sure that no splinters were on it.

“I will try my best to aim properly in the chaos.”

A soft chuckle left Nabiu as she pulled out her rod, flicking it in the air and catching it with a confident smile on her face, showing pure determination to help people.

“The monsters will all go up in the sky!”

“Oh, not before their eardrums are bursted to bits.”

Karoto joined in with an excited chuckle as Fragaria smiled, already sorting out her potions while Tomaria joined her, chuckling as she gave some labels to her for safety.

Just so the confusion wouldn't happen like with the tomato.

Arti hummed in approval before letting Cameron help them speak again.

“Cameron, Wizzro, Brocco, Tai and Me will go close to them, indirectly acting due to our weapons doing the most damage when up close.”

….They needed to add this. They can't be not careful with everyone.

“You need to be careful, as this is the middle of the storm in this mess. There will be potions thrown in there, Tomaria's bombs and more. I beg for you all to be careful in this.”

Wizzro's gaze made them want to puke in a way.

It was soft, reassuring in every way possible as the mere nod made them feel safe that nothing was gonna happen…yet it felt so wrong too.

They were all getting hurt because they couldn't handle it alone.

“Of course, we'll make sure to be careful, Star.”

Pleasedontusethesenamesyoucouldgethurt-

“I will make sure your caretaker is finely protected.”

Brocco softly hummed as he kissed the wizard's forehead, grasping that silent chuckle that he always did when he's happy and whydotheyworrysomuch-

ThereareyoungerpeopleheretheyneedtobemoreworriedaboutTHAT-

“Of course. I know my arts like the back of my head, I'll dodge just fine.” 

Tai reassured as well while Cameron just flung the hammer in sweet circles before attaching it to his back, having a slight handle there for safety.

A reassuring flick of his ears made their nerves calm down for a bit, breathing in a quiet rhythm to themselves as they couldn't panic.

They were the one thing that's probably being trusted with this right now.

“Good, Good. Before we go, I want to inform you all that you have to follow my lead. Please don't do anything quick without thinking.”

There were agreements from side to side as the slightest ringing forced itself through, but they acted like it was normal…ringing happened.

It all happened.

“Arti? Are we going?”

Oh yeah.

A quick nod where they ignored the gazes of the others and they finally opened the door, letting everyone follow in a small group as they pulled out a map.

This will be a long walk.

They'll arrive on time but still.

Everything in their chest told them that something was gonna happen today.

….But it'll be fine.

All.

Fine.

    -      -         - -   -        - -

-     -    -   -  - - —- --- -- ----

     — - -  -

LOADING INFESTED ONION TOWN . . .

[Tip: Tomaria's healing bombs have a 10 to 5% chance to be normal bombs, taking damage instead! So be mindful of how you play.]

         -    -       -

– -     -        - -

    --    - 

They had been talking for quite a while now, but the sounds that made their stomach churn came closer. The ringing in their ears hadn't subsided completely.

It was just another day. Just another creature to kill.

“Are we there yet? Are we there yet? Are we there-”

“Toma, We aren't.”

“Awe.”

Cameron and Tomaria were talking with each other over random things while the wolf made sure that the tomato didn't accidentally switch up her bombs.

Another conversation that catched her eye was with Fragaria and Nabiu, where the blueberry talked about potions and how she could fling them even farther!

Wizzro, Brocco and Tai were chatting about positions, where the Mentor could perhaps enchant the katana to make it even stronger than before.

Lemlo was softly talking along with Lila, discussing the many ways they could be picked up and perhaps shot the different creatures from the air if it was possible.

The way everyone planned along eased their soul for a bit.

Perhaps this will not be as hard as it seems, even if they didn't know how the things looked like yet-

But soon-

Ah.

The cliff has finally come into view for all of them, so they decided to clap their hands together to make them all listen.

Tomaria immediately caught onto it and got beside them to translate.

“We have arrived. Please be careful when you approach the cliff so we can oversee the situation.”

A nod was shared across, thumbs up of agreement and silent ‘we will’ whispered along the lines as Arti turned around and slowly walked up while the others followed along.

With one deep sigh, they finally decided to check the massive area down below, just to see what crea-

….Creatu….

Creatures-

Oh.

Oh my fucking god-

It wasn't visible to anyone. Perhaps barely as the hero flinched heavily which was hid by the giant cloak that was over their body.

The vines hid the mortified expression they had as gasps came from right behind them.

There.

There was so much mucus, blood, green in so many fucked up colours as the screeches went around and swung their massive tails around that were shaped like the fruit-

They had that purple fur, stained in slight dirt and liquid that they didn't recognise, the belly's fat and full of flesh, red from the skin from all the things they-

Their legs were long and the patterns that looked like fake purple scars, the claws that were tinted in purple that looked like crystals and the blood smeared onto them with no remorse.

The heads that were covered by the leaves in green, purple sharp edges at the end that kept their face hidden away from everything. Same the shells were on the shoulders to protect them.

The face…was zigzag, sharp teeth, dripping with blood and their sharp gaze that would absolutely snap onto the next victim they search for.

So many. Newborns. So many babies. They are just living. They will die without any Caretakers. Their covered in embryonic fluid.

The town was infested in many colours, scratches, sounds, smells, just by these creatures, their throat jumping as they realised-

Artichokes.

It was infested with Artichokes.

Oh god. Oh, this was bad.

“What the…hell….?!”

“I-i….Why…”

“Why are there- are those Newborns-!?”

So many voices that needed to be kept down as they barely looked over, noticing the shocked silence so many had with hands over their mouths.

The disgusted, shocked and scared looks at the pure masses this was playing at.

Focus.

But the poor little cubs, they are-

FUCKING. F O C U S.

There was a fast nudge to Tomaria and Cameron, which didn't register for a moment before looking up with two different yet so similar expressions.

Tomaria looked horrified, looking up with an almost sorry gaze as she kept glancing back to the state of the town AND the…creatures.

Justcreaturesthatdidntdeserveitevenifitwasnecessary.

Cameron looked up, the stoic face having been broken to a confused, angry yet…still horrified expression as his pupils shook slightly, his fists clenched around his hammer.

But they saw the hands slowly moving and knew that they needed to keep translating.

“We…need to do this. I-I know it doesn't look good, but this will stop the infestation.”

Tomaria didn't want to say it, they knew. It was mercy but it was also a slaughter they couldn't excuse. Perhaps they could. Nobody knew the amount of pressure that was on their chest currently.

They kept signing, this time pointing to Lemlo and motioning over to a building.

“Go there for us. We'll follow, but you need to position yourself.”

Lemlo hesitated heavily.

The look kept going back like the others, watching the Artichokes softly nudge along the newborns, bite at their own hair, perhaps even fight like animals do.

Like they used to-

NONOSHUTIT-

There was a slight tint of sympathy and guilt in her face, slowly creeping up to the newborns.

Innocent little babies.

“Al…Alright.”

The lemon bat opened her wings, walking back for a moment before flying up, making sure to stay high enough so that the Artichokes wouldn't be so bothered.

Next step, just keep going.

“Wizzro, use an invisibility spell on us. We need to speed this up. Everyone, hold hands and follow after me.”

Cameron spoke for them as a nod came from the big wizard, pulling out his rather pretty staff that looked similar to a rod but much bigger, and slowly started whispering.

The others started intertwining their hands with one another, forming a line so that no one would get lost during this whole ordeal.

“Fragaria. Throw one of those light potions you have in the air to Lemlo once we get close enough.”

Arti signed simply while the wolf let the words speak, getting a nervous sweat from the strawberry that looked like she was about to collapse from the shaking.

They aren't old enough for thiswhycouldntyouhavedonethisalone-

The spell was quickly activated, making the ones occupying the cliff completely invisible to the sights of the ones who could very well end them-

A quick line was made as everyone kept walking together, creating slight dust near the cliff as the steps made disgusting sounds through the various liquids.

Even when they were going around the town, it was still covered.

It was disgusting, so god damm vile-

But at least they could see each other through the footsteps.

The smell was one of the worst things too, so much of that metallic smell that made their stomach growl heavily, which only wasn't noticed due to the many other noises there-

So much rotting. So much blood. So many embryonic fluids. They hated it so much.

This is so wrong.

But they aren't any better.

They kept getting closer to where Lemlo was, which was also close to the giant crater where a garden of the onions once was-

But the invisibility potion was slowly wearing off, which made them flinch and quickly made them sign so that their teammates could translate-

Which was fast.

“Fragaria, NOW-”

The little intern flinched but quickly ran forward, throwing the light potion high in the air with the best shot they could do right now, up where the bat was-

With a quick grab of her legs, she started to spin a quick pattern. The bottle was starting to shine and shake as whatever liquid inside there was activating-

AND-

WWWWOOOooooosssshhhh-

P O P.

Without any hesitation, the bottle exploded in heavy light, usually meant to send a signal or distraction for the enemy so they would be blinded.

Which the Artichokes followed with confusion and interest, abandoning the town for a moment to follow the light that had some in the sky like a star.

They were finally distracted for a moment-

“NOW, GOGOOGOGO-”

Arti didn't need to sign as Tomaria quickly waved for everyone to speed up, Lemlo following close in the sky as they went towards the crater that looked like a boss battle arena.

Very well could be with what they were about to face.

With carefulness, the Hero slid down with their feet, dragging Cameron along with both of their arms as they looked back to see the others.

Brocco was sliding down with his sword, Wizzro with his staff while holding Tai in his arms, where she helped along by bringing the Katana down on the dirt so they could slow down.

Between the vines, they catched Fragaria, Tomaria, Lily, Karoto and Nabiu going to the edges of the cliff while holding their weapons close, Nabiu saying something they couldn't understand.

But Karoto sure gave a thumbs up and a response to it, while Tomaria tapped their bombs and pointed the potions to Fragaria, which she ran forward to Lily too and poured some on the arrows the fairy had.

. ..Everyone was gonna be alright. They are working together.

Arti quickly went to the middle of it, looking around as they let go of Cameron and analysed the amount of area they had.

…Average. Definitely gonna be overfilled soon with monsters.

They couldn't help but look over to the others again.

“Just be careful, Lime. Alright?”

“Staying right before you, Lemon.”

“That's not what i-”

…a quiet stare to the right of them-

“We're gonna be alright. Right..?”

“Surely. We are all skilled, even if there are much more than us.

“Right, right…ill watch you're back.”

“Yeah, I'll watch all the others too.”

They were safe down here. Up there-

A quick peek to the edge of the crater, where the next part of the plan would start-

Everyone was safely up there, Tomaria waving towards them with a kind smile, Karoto giving a thumbs up and holding Guitar ready and so much-

It's fine. Just do it.

Lemlo waved down from above, giving the sign that she is ready to help.

…Alright.

A quick motion that was meant to resemble a bow shooting an error, nudging to Lily specifically as she gave a quiet nod.

Slowly, the fairy kneeled down, pulling out a warning arrow that's usually used for emergencies or when something needed to be alerted to their position-

Which is gonna be the mass amounts of Artichokes.

A quiet shiver that wasn't seen by anyone went through their large body, pulling out the one weapon they always had hidden for safety.

One needle like sword, using it as a close range weapon as they stepped back for a moment, watching with a faceless gaze to the fairy.

….

One.

Two.

Three-

FHWWOOOOOOOOOoooooooooooo-

The light arrow was shooting right into the sky, sparkling in a pretty fashion before EXPLODING into a bright red to alert everyone nearby.

Everyone took a step back.

…

ThumpthumpthumpTHUMPTHUMTHUMPTHUMBUMPBUMPBUMPBUMPBUMP-

The creatures finally knew their positions.

And with the many steps following and everyone finally getting ready to fight, seeing the amount of green become overwhelmingly large-

The absolutely chaotic hell began.

Arti barely got away as the Artichokes literally rammed down onto the crater, biting the dirt but almost immediately forcing their broken body up again.

Their bones cracked, their limbs were wrong, their eyes were wrongtheirmouthstheirtailstheirthwirtheirrthwir

Somanywrongbirthssomanydisfunctionsthesepoorthings-

A sword sliced through the thick fog of dust, splattering blood but quickly exploding into a bunch of exp points as if they were nothing more than a reward.

It's just how it all worked after all.

One quick SWISH of a Katana got into their left ear, snapping their head over as the quick nut sliced some legs to loosen their ability to move properly.

Due to the pain, they kept slamming together, screeching at one another in a rapid harmony of noises that one could only explain as discord.

Arti dodged away themselves, stabbing the Artichokes - THEIROWNKINDHOWCOULDTHEYHOWCOULDTHEY - right into the stomach and heads, only getting a few scars from the sharp leaves that occupied their shoulders.

They looked around once more, looking at the rapid messes of dust and fast movement and green and-

Wait.

“SHITHURGH-”

NONOPAPA-

Wizzro had tried to load a spell but had been absolutely SLAMMED against a wall due to the rockhard tail ends, getting a growl from said Artichoke while sliding against a wall-

Heishurtheishurtohgodohgodo

They tried charging, hoping to get closer and-

FWOOsh-

“SCREAAAAAaaaaaaaa-”

They were thrown into the air, slamming down right onto two of the creatures who fell over and immediately got a triple kill by Tomaria, who threw a heavy bomb into the pile.

The explosion led the attention away from the injured wizard for now, which was good.

They turned their head over to the source.

“WE GOT YOU!”

The tomato yelled as she ran around the crater like the others, yelping as she stumbled to the side from the passing predators, only getting pulled up by a quick Karoto.

The expressions told them about a teasing remark which the Tomato grumbled about before suddenly BEING THROWN LIKE A BOWLING BALL-

These two, they SWEAR-

Didn't. Didn't matter. As long as the young c. Carrot got them away.

They snapped their gaze over to Wizzro, who shakily stood up while Cameron slammed any nearby Artichoke away to protect the wizard that could literally do healing spells.

Which he did quickly cast on himself and Cameron as a quick thanks, a quick happy nod given in return as his tail wagged.

But of course it quickly vanished to force the concentration up, hoping not to get as an arrow quickly swished past them that slammed into some Artichoke's-

Ah, the bow fairy.

Lily seemed to hum proudly as Arti protected themselves yet watched others, finding a quick celebration quite fine as the arrows seemed to be laced with poison-

If the way the animals constantly choked and shook from nothing as the arrows hit them, slowly just dying told them anything.

This was a slaughter that was necessary.

Didn't make their heavy hurting stomach of guilt disappear though.

F o c u s.

As they the exp and blood ran through their body with each slice, they almost didn't watch their back, a growl only snapping them out of their focus as they looked back-

A huge maw was closing initscomingOHGOD-

CRACKFWEEEEESH-

…

One giant old cactus three ripped out of the ground, piercing through the green beast and letting it disappear into their little forever sleep.

A quick wave and a thumbs up was given as a thanks to Lemlo, immediately knowing it was them from the lack of chlorokinesis in the team.

There was a nervous smile and a wave that was given as she had quickly picked up Lily for an arrow attack from above, hoping to get more hits in.

….It was such a flurry of movement and emotions, if Arti truly had to be honest for a moment.

So many potions were thrown by Fragaria that stuck to the fur of the Artichoke, infecting each other with heavy poison and burning effects that all came from it.

The beautiful fur kept burning, burning so far.

Arrows of light were thrown around to blind others, while in the back a heavy musical number was played by Karoto with any instrument that currently was chosen by the dice.

The music was so loud. The lights were meant to be dangerous.

The dust got thrown around every time Nabiu flung an Artichoke into a wall, their beautiful purple fur being stained with heavy brown dirt as they let out screeches of pain.

It's all ruined. Just like their stupid urges.

Tomaria had to be bold sometimes and jump right into the mess with her bombs, throwing healing ones at the ones who were injured and normal ones at some piles!

Sometimes switching them up, which did get some glares that were understandable.

Tai’s Katana ripped up body parts and caused heavy scratches to the enemy, leaving Cameron to throw said parts away with his hammer and against others to throw them off balance.

The smells of blood, sweat, potions, so muchtoomuchithurttheirnostrilsthebloodsmelledsoacidic-

Lemlo had become more brave even and sometimes flew down with Lila at heavy speed, biting at the vicious beasts and wrapping them up in the plants that were destroyed previously.

Sadly they did die soon after, but that just meant good gardening opportunities for the onions.

Brocco and Wizzro were working together swiftly as well, back to back as Wizzro shot different kinds of spells and powered up the others weapons while Brocco absolutely demolished any of these vegetables-

It was going so well.

It was going well.

So why did their stomach hurt. Why did their entire mission feel wrong. Their head were pounding with regret.

It'll be fine.

Even if they were breathing their last breath with a species they once belonged too.

A slice there, a yell here, a dodge there and the rhythm was slowly growing into their bones as it got less and less, left with a few scars that got healed up by their team.

There was laughter and snarkiness brewing up as they seemed to finally reach the end, the constant screeches and steps finally stopping.

“COME ON, LAST ONE TOGETHER!”

…Last one. Kay.

Lemlo got to go first, wrapping the Artichoke in a mix of the last fruits that were buried there, Lily and Fragaria throwing a potion and an arrow in that would at least make it a painless death-

And with a final raise of Cameron's hammer-

CRACK!

Fweeeeesshhh…..

…

The last Artichoke disappeared, leaving the Arena filled with only their team members who fought for the freedom of the kingdom.

….

Silence.

Utterly silence as the breaths slowly picked up, looking around the area that was nothing more than just one lonely crater with heroes in it.

Seemed even larger now, perhaps that was just the exhaustion though.

“We…WE DID IT! KAROTOOOOO-”

“YAHEYWAIT, SLOW NABIU-! LETS GETDOWN FIRST-”

The long range team was sliding down, Nabiu running at high speed towards Wizzro and hugging him tight as the whole mess seemed…to be over.

Finally.

The peace settled in slowly as Karoto snickered, readjusting his guitar strings and making sure that nothing was broken….understandably.

Tai was happily chatting along with Lily, swinging her katana around while mimicking how they defeated the Artichokes!

They seemed so happy about it. They should be too.

Selfish. Selfish little hero.

There was soft laughter even as Lemlo came down more, her face relieved from the stress but of course still slightly scared as she landed safely on the ground.

Fragaria had even moved forward to her, making sure her wings weren't damaged as they both started to chuckle in happiness.

So much relief.

“Arti! You alright?”

Hands grabbed onto their claws as they intertwined softly, even if the other ones weren't that big at all.

A small little pebble in their hand almost.

They gave a soft nod as they finally dusted their cloak off, noting how much had gotten onto their clothing to begin with as the Tomato coughed comically.

Cameron snickered softly as the crater now had the team all over the place, letting them slowly close their eyes for a moment to take in the quiet.

It was alright…everyone was happy.

….

It was finally okay.

Thump. Thump. T h u m p-

…Wait. Is that Brocco? Why is he making such heavy ste-

“Wait, WHAT THEFU-

SLISH-

…..

..

.

GETOFFGETOFFITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSITHURTSIHURTSTHEYCANTMYCHESTMYARMMYVINES-

C R A C K-

“SCREEAAAAH-”

THUMTHUMPTHUMMP THUMPP BUMPBUMP BUMP-

Their chest hurt, it hurt so much. There was an Artichoke left, just one.

…

They felt something fleshy and warm in their mouth, slowly dribbling off liquid that tasted…tasted…..

Metallic.

They barely spat out the. A r m. And didn't cough as they barely stumbled over, looking at their own body.

They could see clearly now with the vines all ripped off. Their vision was so blurry though. Tunnel. Tunnel like. Right?

It didn't matter.

Their clothing. Tightighttigh- was ripped, the metallic harsh liquid leaking from their harsh battle wounds. Their…arm too.

They breathing wasn't stable. How could it be. They're not human. They aren't normal. They aren't.

The Artichoke forced their gaze up to the other one.

It looked pissy yet with such a pathetic glint of fear. A little bit of stuttery movement as the arm they bit off was laying on the ground before them.

There were blobs on the side of their tunnel vision. Didn't matter. Nothing matters.

Their taste buds were reeling from the taste of fresh meat and blood from the thing that dared attack them.

….one stumble forward.

“A- i-...?”

“M-..d-...”

They barely registered any kind of touch. They shouldn't touch. They didn't need touch, they needed-

“Scre…scree….?”

H U n g e r-

SCREEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAQAA-

THUMPBUMPTHUMBUMPTHUMBBUMP-

Their heart was in need, they needed food, t h e y n e e d e d w a r m t h-

ITFELTLIKEGLITCHINGFORWARDATHIGHSPEED-

C R A CKCRA C K C R ACK-

Their movements felt so easy to turn into, the stone beneath them staining in a pretty red as the creature screeched out in pain as no one stopped them.

…Was there anyone?

Didn't m a t t e r.

The skull ripped open slowly if the edges of the head expanding to the side meant anything. The thing was barely blinking.

The tears pricked the things eyes.

Yet they suddenly couldn't bring themself to care about any of these unworthy tears.

When they made sure they couldn't fight back, they-

SHRIIIPPPPP-

The chest was open, red as always with the organs pumping in ways that made drool run down their chin.

It was so delicious to look at. Absolutely RELIEVING-

Stupid organs, they need the main star, the point, the flesh, T H E PULSATING H E A R T-

SHHHERRRHHSSH-

So many organs needed to be slammed to the side, frantically ripping and searching for the one delicious piece they needed for their absolute delight-

It happened so fast. So much stuff. So many unneeded rips as the thing got quieter and seemed to stop breathing.

Finally. It was ex ha usti ng.

Wait, THEREITWASYESYESYESFINALLYGODYES-

They plunged their claws deeply into the body, hearing the mushy mess of organs and vile body acids giving their last breath as it all dissolved.

SHWISH.

…The heart.

The hearttheheartTHEWARMTHPULSATINGGOODNESSOFALLFLESHGETINTOMYWARMBELLYANDBEDEVOUREDBYMYMIGHT-

They bit into it and GOD, The liquid was pulling warmth and fat into the belly they didn't have for all these Y E A R S-

They ripped at it, biting with a ravaging hunger into the little types, the veins that kept it together watching the liquid sew out without any kind of pulsating beat.

Death be upon the species that birthed them, hopefully to be reborn into something that wouldn't fit into their hungering stomach that dissolved the breeding misfunctions.

AnotherbiteANOTHERBITEANOTHERBITEANOTHERNEEDANOTHERPLEASE-

“A R T I!”

. . .

W H O D A R E D D I S R U P T I N G-

Their head snapped over to the insane little individual, their eyes actually pinpricks. Perhaps bigger than the usual limit.

They don't care. They needed peace. They needed quiet. THEY NEEDED F L E S H-

Scents filled the air.

Fruits. Veggies. Citrus. Meat. Fur. Nuts. Hair. Liquids.

This was a full meal waiting to be consumed.

A silent growl reached their mouth as they went on all fours, naturally for the Artichoke they are, keeping their feet on the ground-

Something…was around them. Protections perhaps. W ha tev er.

The cloak was so heavy. But it was good protection. The hair fit too, a spiky wall of resistance for anyone who came close.

A move closer.

MumbleschattersomuchwhisperingtheywouldkillthemtheyKNEW-

Another move as the round red one moved one step away, holding something round so shakily that it was making their head spin.

Some were raising…sticks. Weapons?

Weapons.

WEAPONS-

THEIRGONNAKILLTHEMFORTHISNONONO-

“SCREEEEEEEEE-”

A Heavy bolt forward was made as they sped up towards the bur that looked beyond horrified, but barely dodged out of their G R E E D Y grip.

Get back here, I'm H U N G R Y.

A hiss left their throat as they barely kicked a potion away from another red looking blur that included a greener…yet also brown one.

…sniff…

Two nuts. Good for nutrients and MORE-

An attempt to speed up only failed due to a loud broken sound, it sounded so HORRIBLE-

MUSICISAPESTGETAWAYSHUTUP-

They blindly spun around too-

A r g h-

No tail. My tail isn't here. Where's my tail. It's ripped off. It hurts.

I didn't have a tail for so long.

A silent hiss made them boost forward to the knight, scratching the metal arm but SLAMMING AGAINST THE STUPID STONE-

HURTHURTHURTSTUPIDYELLOWPPULLING AWAY-

So much pain. Need to focus. Hungry. I'mhungrygodforgiveme.

They almost flinched harshly as they were thrown by some pull into the middle again, shaking their head vigorously as they just moved up again-

IT ALL HAPPENS SO FAST, THEY LOOKED SO SCARED. THEYNEEDEDTOB3THEYWEREBARELYDODGING.

The only one ever so soft was the orange.

A beautiful orange.

….soft-

-ooooOOOOOOOMMM-

Wha-

SLIISH-!

…..

OHMYGODMYARMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA-

Their arm hurt, it was shot at, someone shot at my arm, something shot………shoo….

Their body felt numb all of the sudden.

Their limbs weren't responding anymore.

They barely coughed as they collapsed onto the harsh floor, not being able to force their dirtied limbs up anymore.

It hurt.

The sky was filled with a yellow and a green and white blur….with..something..brown…?

….They felt warmth at their arm as thr thing was pulled out, pressing against their arm.

A low whimper raised through the monster's throat.

Was…it shushed? They heard a shushing. It sounded so soft that they felt tears running down their face.

Wet. All wet. Their nostrils didn't even work anymore as something filled them.

Another one patted their head.

Did. They had a hat. Did it get lost.

….another voice chimed in that they barely understood.

“Yo-......kay…”

It hurt.

It…h…urt…

….

.

…..

Mmm…

The darkness felt inviting for a moment as the cold that had been there before…was simply gone, replaced by something warm and fluffy.

Fabric. Definitely.

…

They didn't want to open their eyes but people needed them-! Even if their body felt numb and very cold, that didn't matter.

Nothing mattered more than other people.

…They forced their eyes open with a bleary gaze, blinking silently as the ceiling was met with gray and concrete like colours.

Gray? Why-

Oh Jesus, the headache was just forming-

A heavy groan left their throat as Arti finally leaned back, trying to sit against the pillow as they clasped their shaky body.

Cold. Cold. All cold. Mmpfh.

Why…where were they? This..looked-

“ARTI?!!!!”

“Tomaria, tone-”

“Ah, sorry-”

….Oh?

One head turn and the colours finally started to bleed into the picture, even if they were through cell bars and the other more brown tones that joined-

Wait.

Cell bars?

“...W..ha…-”

Such a grated voice. It sounded even worse than usually as they noted a glass of water on their nightstand.

Hm.

“You're awake-! We were worried….how do you feel?”

Tomaria's voice was so careful, soft like a feather as the water got poured down their throat to soothe pains and get them awake.

Urgh. Bland.

Also, their left arm hurt.

They raised their weak hand and gave a soft motioning that showed they felt ‘so-so’. Definitely didn't need to worry them further.

Especially if they…why even…

The Artichoke pointed to the bard specifically. Confusion laced their expression as they only now got some of the memories back, slowly flooding in-

“...Look. It was for the others' security. They…weren't sure how you'll be when you wake up.’

Huh?

A murmur left their throat as they seemed only more confused. What did everyone mean? Why were they in a cell- why-

…

 . . .

Oh god.

They just. Wait. No, that wasn't what-

Did they attack. They ate.

They tasted their mouth again with their tongue, licking across and testing and-

“Oh, we brushed you're teeth…we..didn't want you to go feral again.”

Oh, sweet Tomaria.

They gave a thumbs up as they almost immediately tried getting up afterwards, which has gained exactly two ‘WATCH OUT-’ from the other and-

THUMP.

THEIR LIMBS WERE STILL N U M B-

“Be careful. Lily shot you with a sleeper arrow.”

Oh.

Becausetheycouldnt-

No, stop that. There are more important questions right now even if they were laying on the floor like a flat pancake. They needed to sign.

It was a bit messy, but they did it anyway.

‘Others?’

Tomaria luckily read it, looking at Arti for a moment - theyarescaredarenttheygod - before simply sighing and going up to the cage door, pulling out a key.

A quick check from the tomato and wolf were currently being made.

“...Downstairs in the dining area. They went to eat and the onion let the entire meal be free after everything. He thanked you greatly for accepting the mission and the overall success with everyone!”

…They…thanked…me? Why would they thank me. I ruined it. I broke everything. I brought everyone in danger. I am a monster. I

Arti's head snapped over as the cell was unlocked, the bomber walking in. She kneeled down to the other fruits level and gently moved a hand under the arm.

Cameron quickly followed after with a flick of his ear, helping Arti sit up.

….They now just looked at their overall appearance.

They wore a warm white shirt that's just their size and their usual pants, weirdly not coated in…in. Just. Don't mention it or they're gonna trigger a panic attack or something.

Urgh.

Also, socks. Surprisingly the shoes were gone and their cloak and-

The Rouge already noticed how Arti was looking for their usual clothes and tapped the giant's shoulder gently.

“Their fine. We put the rest in the wash and patch up after they got ripped.”

Oh.

A soft nod of appreciation was immediately given. Almost too quick to affirm as they tried standing up again.

“Arti.’

…Mmpfh.

One silent stare was given to the tomato again as they tried to not focus on how a carpet was on a cell floor. Soft little onions.

“You're gonna have to talk to everyone about what happened. Of course we understand, but…the others were freaked out. Well, beside Wizzro, who was worried sick and some others too and-”

“Toma.”

“Sorry, sorry-! What I mean to say is….everyone is waiting for you downstairs when you're ready.”

….

Arti felt so incredibly conflicted right now.

The bandages pressing against their stomach and arm didn't make it better. They couldn't even hide their expressions right now due to the lake of mana-!

Silent groans escaped their throat as they rubbed the freshly bandaged wound, breathing and trying to properly gather their senses of what to do.

…

They couldn't just leave.

They can't leave after everything they had done to these people, forcing them into things they didn't deserve-! It was…disgusting.

They were disgusting.

They hurt everyone due to urges they could've controlled.

Everyone needed an apology.

Everyone. Every single one of them. They will make individual ones if necessary.

I know what to do. What a hero does.

“I'm…ready.”

Tomaria and Cameron both looked up in surprise as the little bomber's face got just a bit sterner, giving them goosebumps.

“Arti.”

“I-...I..know. I'm ready. Promise.”

They needed to sound genuine. Their voice was such a horrible thing, but they wanted their teammates and family to believe that they could go.

Both shared a glance that probably spoke a thousand words.

So many words that they wanted to share.

As the gaze returned to the giant hero-

Both gave a hesitant nod, allowing them to go as they were gently helped up.

Taking steps was difficult and they needed a moment to walk. Not just stumbled, fall and crack their head-

Wait, horrible intrusive thoughts. How thoughtless can you be?

Finally though, they were able to walk downstairs from the…security room of the…hotel? They think? They didn't actually take much notice too it all.

They had no spacial awareness until a few moments ago. But it seemed to be the king of room a security guard would put criminals before they-

You're a criminal. Guess that-

Shutupdontwallowinselfpityurgh.

They quietly made their way downstairs, seeing some of the local onions in the hotel and other people that gasped when seeing them.

The whispers made it worse somehow.

“That's Arti!”

“Weren't…they carried over here?”

“Did they do something wrong?”

Stupid, keep to yourself.

After a few more steps downstairs, a turn and following the lovely smell of foody they finally got to the huge dining area that was filled with…stories, snickering a soft talks.

The night sky was fully seeable through the glass window, having finally set their Sundays to rest and sleep over the dead that have been brought to the stars tonight.

How poetic.

One more step closer and they saw the food on the table.

Pork, eggs, desserts, anything you could ask for after a mission that included such a heavy amount of stress.

“Everyone! Arti is awake.”

Oh fuck, Tomaria WHY-

The silence that followed with the many creaks of tables, gasps of surprises as some stood up and the states were very much not helping them with that case.

Nothing was helping. The ringing almost came up again if Cameron didn't softly nudge them to the seat at the end of the table.

It. Hurt.

In the middle of everything, there was a selfish bastard.

A sigh left their throat as their heavy steps finally proceeded over to the chair, getting to sit where Wizzro and Karoto was for once as their team sat down too.

It was such a heavy silence. They despised it.

There were scared ones. Concerned. A bit stern. There was something telling them that Tomaria and Cameron might have explained what happened, but not why.

….So, perhaps.

The words started to slowly flow out of their mouth.

“I know you're probably scared of me right now. I can completely…understand that.”

It was a simple start, their voice for once visible as the ones who have never heard it, which included the nuts and the fairy-

Their eyes sure widened un surprise, but slowly lowered back to their previous expression.

Grating. Annoying. Speak normally.

“I know what I have done isn't excusable. I have hurt so many people just because of a stupid urge. I, of course…do appreciate everything you all have done though.”

Their throat felt so tight. They wished heavily that the vined would just re-appear, to hide all the tears that could flow down.

But they just blinked fastly to get the moist out of their eyes.

“You all are amazing and I couldn't thank you enough for what you have done. And I…cannot apologize enough for the scare I gave you all. I know you probably don't trust me anymore now and I can't blame you.”

They wondered if they had been doing something wrong. The faced got sterner and more confused, slightly appreciative but-

Weren't they apologizing enough? Were they…pitying themselves? Being too pitiful with themselves.

Just keep going.

“All could have been prevented if I didn't let myself get triggered by my instincts. It could have run…smoothly till the end. And for that, I apologize for my behaviour. You all didnt-”

“What are you talking about-?”

Arti opened their eyes slowly to Nabiu actually standing up, gaining the attention of the room as she stood on her chair.

What was-

“Why are you apologizing for something you can't control? You literally didn't know what would happen.”

Karoto. Karoto, no- He shouldn't be in this conversation, he doesnt-

“My girl, I know…you blame yourself a lot. But you were still attacked first. All you did was defend yourself against the danger you were afraid off.”

Wizzro. 

Nononono, they shouldn't be the lines justifying their horrible actions. The moist got worse. They didn't want to cry. They couldn't cry.

They were about to stand up and protest, but-

“U-Uhm…Arti. Can I try…and talk?”

Lemlo.

Their mouth tasted so dry as their body shook, their legs twitched and wanting to kick the table in how wrong this was all going-

Their chest tightened up and not just because of the bandages.

Lily, Fragaria and Tai gave a subtle nod though, a soft thumbs up coming from Tai as the lemon nervously chuckled as the attention came to her.

But…she breathed in.

And talked.

“I….know you're probably scared right now. Angry at yourself. You don't even seem quire ready to talk properly about it yet.”

They weren't, to be honest.

They're brain hurt. Their limbs felt slack. Their chest felt like it's bleeding again. The tears were threatening to slip out.

“While yes, it was scary…we all saw that there must have been a reason you reacted like this. Right?”

There were so many nods exchanged, with Fragaria even chiming in first and gathering a hook she got from Nabiu.

“Mhm..Artichokes are u-usually…very scared creatures, even if they are many. They would protect themselves heavily with anything they got if they sense danger.”

You think they wouldn't know?

…No, that’s mean.

The fairy got into the conversation too, simply pulling out the bow they-

Oh, that's the one that was embedded into their arm previously.

“I didn't shot you because I thought you were an animal, but more because we knew you wouldn't calm down otherwise…”

Becausetheycanttheirthroatissotightstoptalking-

Brocco even crossed his arms as he raised his finger to talk as well, sharing a glance with Wizzro before looking over to the Artichoke.

“You are a good leader. I would know. But everyone has their moments, even me…you shouldn't be so hard on yourself.”

The final blow was probably from the lemon.

Because those words struck a very particular part of their core.

“We care about you, even if you don't care for yourself sometimes.”

The smiles. The soft words. The reassurance.

….

They started to let the tears roll as they hid their face messily from everyone else the claws obscuring the view as the floodgates opened.

They didn't deserve this.

They didn't.

But the warm arms that they registered as Wizzro, Tomaria and Cameron, they couldn't help but let out wrecking sobs as their face turned red from everything.

Soft words were whispered to reassure them that its alright and the blinks where they could see was shown with soft waves of Lemlo.

…Karoto was..also asking for something from Tai, who perked up and got some help with Nabiu to pour something in.

“Put away the hands for a second, you need to eat-”

Oh, that voice was so snarky sometimes but still so caring and nervous.

…They barely put away their hands that were now soaked with tears, looking down upon the gift that was given to them.

….Soup.

Potato soup, specifically.

So simple, with meat chunks, veggies, and tiny bits of sauce here and there. Yet it only made their eyes so much more glassy and teary.

“You need to eat AND Clean you're faOWWWSORRY-”

“Not the time, Karoto-!”

Nabiu very much just gave Kaorot a smack behind the head, but it was received with some snickers that warmed up their heart.

A soup.

They gently picked up the spoon, gaining eyed that for once seemed to give them courage instead of the usual fear of judgement.

One gentle sip…

Slurp.

…

OKAY, THEYJUSTREALISEDHOWHUNGRYTHEYARE-

Without a hint of hesitation, THEY BURIED THEIR FACE INTO THE BOWL WITHOUT SHAME AND ATE-

“ARTI, SLOW IT-”

“OH JESUS, I KNOW YOURE HUNGRY BUT SLOW DOWN-”

“Well. Can't really stop them, huh-?”

“Not really. Once my girl has started, they usually don't stop till it's done.

“Well…at least their getting something down!”

“Still, we should be careful. Don't choke, Hero. Seriously.

“Oh! I wonder if other Artichoke's eat like that!”

“Maybe! We will have to see later!”

“I don't know if I should be baffled, impressed or concerned.”

“Be both! It's more interesting usually”

The chatter was heavy as their ears got filled with noise and their belly with warmth that doesn't make them mad.

It…felt warm.

It all felt so comforting as their back was rubbed.

….

They.

Belonged here.

For once, in their life…

They could fully believe that for a night.