Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

When someone told him he would be on a spaceship billions of light years away from their home planet, Minecraftia, He didn’t want to believe it. But here he was. The S S Minecraftian. Once holding over 200 passengers. Now holding exactly 175. Heading to Planet X. “Alright Ladies!” A female voice grabs his attention. “Listen up because I’m only going to say this once. We are here to make sure this planet is safe for us to live on. No dilly dallying. If you are left behind, you stay behind!” There were many uncertain voices. The ship lands to the planet’s surface with a thud. “Wow. Uplifting speech.” He looks over his shoulder to see Scar, his best friend. Has been since the fall of Minecraftia. He always had a way of making the worst scenarios into the best adventure. Or at least that’s what he says. “In the meantime. Welcome, to Planet X.” The hatch behind the woman opens as it reveals the base. Filled with military vehicles and soldiers. Everyone looks to the planet in awe but is quickly pushed out of the cockpit of the ship. Scar quickly grabs his hand. “C’mon, Mumbo!” He rushes with Mumbo’s hand, a smile plastered on his face as he wheels himself as fast as he can. Mumbo follows close behind Scar, but his eyes are on the sky. A beautiful blue and purple sky, 2 moons overlapping each other like an eclipse, a bright shining sun brightening the forest in the distance. It’s a beautiful scenery. But everything seems so bare in the base. The ground a sandy grey, building and tents along with giant metal suits pulling trees from the ground. Soldiers marching in pattern, some walking and some running. Everyone is in a hurry to get somewhere.
The meeting that Scar and Mumbo had been in a rush to get to was as dull as the base they stayed in. They went over rules and regulations that had been told to them time and time again. Don’t go to the forest alone. Always be around at least 2 other people. Don’t bother the scientist’s. Be in your designated tent at 10 sharp unless told otherwise. Always tell another where you are going if you must go alone. Blah blah blah. Mumbo had paid close attention but Scar was always the class clown of rules. He never understood the point of the rules unless they were important, which it wasn’t right now. He felt like he was back on Minecraftia and not on an alien planet. Which did feel close to home but not in the way he was pleased with. Until a certain rule made him look up and pay attention. “And under no circumstances are you allowed to speak to a Hermit without an Avatar.” Hermit? Avatar? What did the Commander mean? Thankfully someone spoke his mind. “What is an Avatar, Sir?”
“I’m glad you asked, Skizz.” A different man said. His attire screamed Scientist. Lab coat, blue framed glasses, a book in his hands. Scar seemed to beam as the scientist revealed himself, but Mumbo couldn’t tell why.
“Everyone meet 135. He is our lead Hermit researcher. He was part of the first Minecraftian group to learn of Planet X.” 135 gave a slight smile as he held tightly to the book in his hands. A leather strapped book with notes and bookmarks sticking out of it.
“Everyone can just call me Cub.” He seemed nice was all Mumbo could think, but he didn’t look like a researcher.
“An Avatar is what the Minecraftian Project is all about.” Cub continued. “You see, a Hermit is the race of creatures that live here on Planet X. Hermit’s or HYBRIDS, look like us, but their language includes animal sounds and they are only half humanoid looking. They can be half of any type of animal.”
The room grew very quiet in the ear but Mumbo could hear and feel the curiosity and wonder buzzing in his ears and brain. He had so many questions.
“An Avatar is why you are all here today. You will become Avatars. A.. Fake Hermit. You will look like one of them, able to wander into the forest, to learn more about them and-“ “What 135 is saying-“ The Commander cuts off Cub. “Or MEANT to say-“ He gives Cub a side look. Almost warning look. Cub immediately backs up to give the commander space, But Mumbo and Scar can see the anger he hides in his eyes. “Is the Hermits are dangerous. We are here to learn what we can to survive… And then we wipe them.” The Commanders words hung off. Everyone seemed unfazed. Except Mumbo. He was surprised to hear this. Learn from them? Only to wipe them out? DANGEROUS? His thoughts came in waves. “Now.” The Commander regained the room.
“When 135 calls your name, you will be assigned teams.” The Commander left the room without another room. Cub sighed as soon as he was out of earshot. “Right..” He mumbled. He took out a clipboard from what seemed from nowhere.
Two teams were made before Mumbo’s and Scar’s names were called. Thank goodness Mumbo thought. He was afraid he would be on a team where he didn’t know anyone.
“Mumbo Jumbo, False Symmetry, Scar GoodTimes, Skizzle Man and Ren Dog. Team Red. You will be the first to have Avatars. You will report to Lab Z.” Cub assigned.
The all took no time in standing up and walking out the door.
“Team Red! About to become the first team to be Avatars! Kick some Hermit butt! And be the best in all of Dogwarts!” One of the members shouted down the halls. He was full of energy.
“Dogwarts?” Mumbo asked
“Ren’s made up name for Planet X. It’s not sticking.”
“It will one day, False. Trust me.”
“Ren. My trust in you is unlimited. It’s your names that needs work.” False gave Ren a playful smirk.
“Don’t worry about those two, names Skizz by the way.” Skizz holds his hand out to shake Scar’s. Scar takes it as Mumbo walks behind Scar’s wheelchair to continue pushing him down the hall.
“Scar, and this is Mumbo.”
“Pleasure my new friends, I’m Ren and this one is False.” Ren waves. His voice got very dramatic and low all of a sudden. False gives a nod but keeps her arms crossed.
“So the Hermits… what do you think they are like?” Mumbo asks hesitantly.
“Honestly, I’m not sure.” Skizz answers, a hand on his chin. “I just thought they were animals, But Cub said they look almost like us.”
“Same here.”
“But Ren, you said you would kick their butts.” Mumbo reminded him.
“I did, but that’s because the Commander said they were dangerous. I really don’t have any beef with them.”
The air hissed slightly as the doors to the lab was opened. A giant “Z” was painted white in front of the door.
They only had a few seconds to look at their surroundings before they were welcomed in by a voice in the back, behind shelves filled with books and potions of some sort. They walked inside and was met with one of the scientists.
“I’ll be with you in just a moment.”

Chapter Text

“So you must be Team Red.” An arm is stood out for a greeting. Ren is the first to shake hands with the scientist. “Nice to meet you and yes, we are Team Ren.”

“You mean RED?” False claims from behind.

Ren chuckles, “Of course, Team Red.” Mumbo can’t help but snicker at the slip up.

The scientist grabs their attention once more, his lab coat covered in various colors. Possibly from the potions on the shelf. “Well welcome to Lab Z. I’m Zedaph. I am Director or “Main Scientist” of this lab.
Explains the Z Mumbo thought
“Yes it does.” Zedaph answers as he leads the group through the lab. Did I say that out loud? Zedaph shows them around, showing the pods where they sleep when they are in an Avatar, handed them a book on Hermitology, when they are met with another worker. “Impulse, old friend of mine! How you doin?” Zedaph greets the other man. Impulse.

“Better. The Avatars are all set up.”

“Perfect.” Zedaph smiles. He walks down the hallway in a sprint past several containers, laughing like a mad lad the whole way. Impluse chuckles at his antics, when he turns to greet Team Red, Skizz is the first to approach Impulse. They were good friends. “Good to see you, Dimpledop.” “Hey Skizz.” They greeted each other. The rest of Team Red can’t help but gasp at Impulses appearance. Impuse seemed human but as soon as he turned around they saw the sharp, stub horns on his head and strange grey color of his skin. It looked like he was a mix of a Rhino and a Bull. Impulse simply smiled an explained, “You’re going to see a lot of Avatars in here. I’m using one myself.” Their eyes catch the attention of his tail swaying back and forth almost touching the back of his knee. Scar’s eyes sparkled with fascination while Mumbo’s eyes wandered to the giant capsules where their Avatar bodies floated. Impulse explained how the Avatars work.
“You will immediately learn your Hybrid Language but English would have to be learned again. It will feel like a second language to you. Some Hermits are different than others. You will start to have instincts that will grow overtime so it is not recommended that you stay in an Avatar too long.” Impulse stopped his speech and looked around the Lab. They were in a secluded part of the capsules to where Impulse could lower his voice into an almost whisper. “Look, I want you all to be honest with me….” His tone is serious and the vibe shift caught the Team off guard. “What do you REALLY think about the Hermits?” His question hung in the air for what felt like an hour, but was only a few moments. No one wanted to speak up until a cough was heard from Mumbo. They all looked to him and he started to get nervous “I uh.. I don’t.. um..” He thought about the best way to word his answer. Feeling silly for speaking up. “I.. don’t think they are dangerous.. But I’ve also never met one. The commander said that we were going to learn about them and then “wipe them out.” But… That doesn’t feel right.” Mumbo’s answer gained a smile from his team and Impulse. “You all agree?”
The team nodded at Impulse’s question. “Good. Because that’s what Lab Z is about. We only include certain members into this lab. We are here to learn about Hermits, so we can live in harmony with them. And one day, maybe become Hermits for real.” Impulse’s speech sounded like he spoke with passion, even False felt light in her. But, it was true. They didn’t really know about Avatars and Hermits before landing on Planet X and being in the lunch room where the commander explained everything. Maybe there is more to this?

“So, if that’s what you stand for, then let me introduce you to your Avatars.”

They started down the line of cylinders filled with water and tubes, each holding bodies of Hybrids with different features.

“False, this is your Avatar.” Impulse stopped in front of the first container. It looked just like False, blonde hair and all, but her features looked like an Eagle. Wings and feather and talons that bent in the opposite way of a human. “Eagle. You are able to spot prey from great distances and your wings allow you to fly for long periods of time.” False couldn’t help the amazement that was glued to her face as she stared at her Avatar.

“Mumbo, this is your Avatar.” Impulse stopped in front of the next one. It looked like Mumbo, it even had his mustache! The hybrid side showed purple particles and pitch black skin. He looked so tall his legs curled beneath him in the water and Mumbo couldn’t help but look at the claws. “Enderman. This creature was difficult to get DNA from. Its powers are teleportation, if you think about the place you want to be, you will be there in an instant.” Mumbo was shocked to hear this. “Teleportation?”

“Ren, this one is for you. It’s quite fitting.” Impulse smiled. Ren’s Avatar held his last name with pride. “A dog hybrid for Ren Diggity Dog!” Ren was excited. “You are very fast even on two legs. You also have you sense of smell heightened. Just be careful of the fangs, they have a tendency to cut your tongue if you’re not careful.”

“Scar, this one is for you.” Scar’s eyes widened as he saw his Avatar. Beautiful, silver, fairy like wings sprouted on his back and blue freckles that looked like diamonds. “This is called a Vex. Cub is one as well. They are known as “The tricksters of the forest.” You might have a bit of chaotic instincts but they only manifest in about a week. So, nothing to worry about.”

“Skizz, this is yours.” Skizz also had wings. His hybrid side did look a lot like False’s but different. He had white wings instead of brown. “This is a dove Hermit.” Skizz couldn’t help but laugh at that and Impulse quickly caught Skizz’s laughter. “Listen, Listen! It’s actually very good. You are amazing at navigation. Doves can navigate long distances using the planet’s magnetic-“ “So I can tell north from west?” Skizz’s blunt question caused another round of laughter. “Yes Skizz. You can tell north from west.” ‘Cool, Cool. Thanks, Dimpledop.” Impulse couldn’t help but shake his head fondly at the nickname.

“Okay, any more questions?” Everyone shook their heads except Mumbo who silently raised his hand.

“I was wondering. What kind of Hermit are you?”

“That’s a good question, Mumbo. I am a Ravenger hybrid.”

“Revenger?” Ren asked.

“RAvenger.” Impulse spelled it out. “It is a hostile creature with horns that are very sharp and can cause giant roars that can knock a grown male elephant a foot away.” Impulse seemed very proud of it.

“Are you ready to try them out?”

Chapter Text

To say the process of becoming an Avatar was weird is a huge understatement. Mumbo entered a sleeping chamber along with the rest of his team that had their own. Metal coffins more like it. He could hear the wires and see blue lights surrounding his vision. All Mumbo could do is lay there as the lid was closed and try not to feel claustrophobic. The next thing he knows is he is waking up, but he feels off. Impulse and Zedaph are in his face with flashlights and clipboards. Their voices are muffled for a moment before his hearing catches everything.

“Hey, sleeping beauty.” Zedaph smiles at him. “How do you feel?”
Mumbo took a second to look at his surroundings when another figure enters his line of sight. “Scar..?”
“Hey Mumbo! You’ve got to check this out!” Mumbo slowly sits up. When he looks to Scar he realizes how much he has to look down. In that process he sees his ink black claws. “woah.” His all he seems to be able to say. Zedaph chuckles. Mumbo looks at Scar once more and his eyes widen at his appearance. Scar is a Vex Hybrid and he’s…. FLYING!

“Zedaph! This is incredible.” Scar hovers a foot off the ground and smiles. But Zedaph doesn’t acknowledge him, his eyes on the clipboard in his hand. “Zedaph?” Scar tries again. Zedaph looks up and smiles. “Sorry guys, but I can’t understand you. But you seem to be able to understand each other. Which is brilliant.” That’s right.. He can’t understand us. We must be speaking in hybrid.

“Alright. I’m ready for a test run?” Mumbo hears Ren’s voice across from him. He’s in his Avatar. Skizz and False are in the corner looking at each other’s wings.

“We should let them test the Avatars.” Impulse says to Zedaph.

“Heloooo??” Ren tries to get their attention. “That’s what I said.”

“Ren, pay attention. They can’t understand us. We need to learn English again.” False explains. Rens lips form an “oh” shape as he realizes what had happened.

“I know, Ren. Sorry. But I have to tell Zed.” Impulse smiles at him. Oh right. Impulse is in his Avatar as well.

Once everyone gets used to the new limbs, and is not tripping over tails and falling on their paws and claws etc., they are outside. The training grounds for soldier with guns are nearby but is closed off by a iron fence, but in this area there is a training course.
“So a few things we need to tell you before you move on.” Impulse grabs their attention. “Mumbo, stay away from water. Ren don’t forget to eat. False and Skizz, make sure you take breaks in between flying. And Scar, try to stay off your feet. We don’t want you to faze through the walls yet.” Scar nodded but there was that fascination again in his eyes.
“So, I’m giving you permission to explore the Avatars. Just don’t go too far.” Zedaph states. Everyone walks off in a different direction. Everyone wants to test their abilities. Skizz and False have taken to the sky to get a feel for their wings. Ren, Mumbo and Scar have decided to test their abilities in a race.

“On your mark..” Ren begins

“Get set…” Scar’s wings flutter while Mumbo takes a breath.

“GO!” Ren is well ahead with Scar catching up, Mumbo lagging behind. Apparently even though he has long limbs he can’t run as fast. He is about to give up when purple particles take over his vision. When he opens his eyes he is in front of Ren and Scar. The two jump back in surprise. And then laughter fills his ears.
“Did you see that!?” Mumbo said with a toothy smile.

Mumbo closes his eyes and teleports again, behind Scar and Mumbo. Ren definitely did not scream like a little girl. Absolutely not. Scar howls in laughter at the scream. Mumbo teleports again and laughs but when he notices his new surroundings he stops. He’s not in the camp anymore. He’s in the forest. He realizes that he shouldn’t be here. It’s off limits unless you have your team with you. And his team his now miles away. He doesn’t understand how his abilities work but apparently he thought of the forest for one second and his powers decided he wanted to be there.
He turns around, ready to go back when he hears a sound. He freezes in his tracks and slowly turns his head back to the dense, dark forest. He shouldn’t. He should turn around. Head back to camp…. But of course he doesn’t. He takes slow and steady steps through the forest. Despite being in the forest alone, he feels safe. He quickly blames it on the Hybrid instincts. The forest is filled with beautiful flowers and bugs that he had never seen before. It was so beautiful. Peaceful. He felt as though he had stumbled into a wonderland of nature.

His thoughts are broken when he hears rustling in the trees. He pauses and looks up to the canopy that barely blocks the sunlight, but he sees nothing. He continues to look up and walk. Trying to see if he can get a glimpse of what made the sound. After a few steps his line of sight his broken when he takes a step and doesn’t feel the ground. When he looks down he is on the edge of a cliff. Below is more forest and trees, and birds of different colors flying above. It would be a beautiful sight if he wasn’t panicking. He stumbles and tries to get his foot back on the ground but he is not used to his height and new body weight. He leans forward and he shuts his eyes, ready to fall. All that’s going through his head is his own voice screaming at him to teleport. He lost his footing.

But he is not falling.

Chapter Text

Mumbo’s life flashed before his eyes. He saw it in sections as he nearly fell. He saw the first day of school, how he met Scar, his parents, the fall of Minecraftia, being in cryostasis, waking up from it, the strange dream he had because of it, and last, his team. All of it was over in an instant as his feet, that were not really his, landed on solid ground. His legs buckled in when he touched the ground once more and panted as his vision cleared.

“You should be more careful.” A voice came from right in front of him. Mumbo couldn’t bring himself to open his eyes.

“Yeah..” He gulped the last bit of panic down. “Thank you for-“ His words were cut short when he saw who was leaning over the cliff he almost died from. Or what was leaning over the cliff he almost died from. He only saw their back, which was enough to see what it could be. Red, yellow and blue feathers covered the rest of what it was, but the wings were enough to see that this was not a human… It’s a HERMIT. The wings on this Hermit’s back looked well cared for, despite the few branches and leaves sticking everywhere. When the Hermit turned around but still looked to the cliff, Mumbo could see their face more clearly. Red, yellow and blue smaller feather covered its cheeks, eyes as black as night, winged ears that flicked in the wind, golden brown hair that desperately needed a hairbrush, and.. wait… is that a red sweater? Mumbo thought, or what’s left of a red sweater, the bottom half seemed to be ripped off, showing the scars on the bird person’s stomach. Mumbo’s own stomached turned at the sight of the gruesome scars. This Hermit looks barely 5 feet tall and yet he has more scars than most of the soldiers at the base.

“Hello?.... Hello?” The bird person was facing him now. Did it say something? The tone in its voice sounds male. Wait, he did say something. Shoot, WHAT DID HE SAY?

The bird man chuckled, almost as if he heard his inner thoughts. “Are. You. O. Kay?” The bird man sounded out. All Mumbo could do is nod. Still in a bit of shock a Hermit helped him. “Okay, good. Next question. Who are you and why were you near the death pit?” Death pit? Oh.. He must mean the cliff. “Uh I was.. just looking at the scenery…” He sounded too much like a liar, even though he was telling the truth. The bird man tilted his head to the side like birds do. “rigghhhtt…  Well there’s not much to see. Too many aliens and not enough greenery.” Wait what? But the cliff didn’t have any aliens.. Well except the bird man, but there was tons of greenery. It was the most beautiful part, and only part, of the forest Mumbo had ever seen.

A giant roar like a lion or a giant beast rang through the forest. The sound caught both of their attentions. “What was that??” Mumbo shrieked. “Doc.” The bird man answered bluntly. “It’s a warning that it’s getting dark.” “What’s a Doc? Like a Doctor?” The bird man didn’t answer. He stood up, showing his bird talons, and jumped off the cliff. Mumbo ran to the edge and sighed in relief when he saw the bird man fly away. He was relieved but it quickly turned to disappointment. He still had so many questions. The sun was going down though, so he reckoned he should head back. He had so much to tell his team.

When he got back into his own body he couldn’t wait to tell his team what he saw. Zedaph and Impulse asked each of them questions about their abilities before he spoke up, “I met a Hermit.” Everyone looked at him in shock for a few moments, before being bombarded with questions.

“Who?”

“How?”

“Is that where you went?”

“How are you alive?”

“Did they hurt you?”

Impulse stopped them all from going too far. “Start from the beginning, Mumbo.” When Mumbo had finished explaining how he almost fell and the bird saved him everyone was in awe of his story. “Then he said “Doc” and “it’s becoming night” and just, flew off.” Zedaph was writing everything down, taking in Mumbo’s words like a life line. “We are just glad you are aright, Mumbo. Thankfully you were in your avatar.” Skizz patted him on the back. The words You could have died were left unsaid. “Did he actually say that? Did he say “Doc?” Impulse asked sternly. Mumbo was confused by his sudden demeanor but said yes anyway. Impulse looked at Zedaph with a knowing look. The rest of Team red was confused. “Who is Doc?” Ren asked hesitantly. Zedaph sighed, “We can tell you tomorrow. Right now, you should all get to your tents. We have a field day tomorrow.” Mumbo had never seen Zedaph so serious before.

“Good night, Team Red.”

Chapter Text

 As team Red slept peacefully in their tents, A certain scientist was on the hunt.

Zedaph stormed the halls of the Minecraftian Base. The man was on a mission. Zedaph would say he was the care free, happy, mad little scientist, but right now, he was fuming. Thoughts came in and out in constant hurricane winds. “He said it’s Doc.” “The Avian saved me.” “Thankfully you were in your Avatar.” “Who’s Doc?” “We can tell you tomorrow.” Doc. haven’t heard that name in a while. More than a while. His files said he was dead. Was the commander lying? That son of a baby zombie. He has been messing with my research for years. Filling all of those soldiers’ heads with nonsense. “Avatar’s are dangerous.” “We are here to wipe out the savages.” “Do what you want, Zedaph. Just don’t get in the way.” “The only reason they hired you was to make Avatars.” He rounded a corner and found his target, holding the same clip board he always has. “Cub.” He caught Cub’s attention. “Zed. Now’s not a good time.” Zedaph grabbed his arm and dragged him to a storage closet. “No, this is a great time.” He closed the door, blocked it with his body and crossed his arms at the other man. There was a reason no one had ever seen Zedaph upset. He would deny that he was scared of himself, but everyone else knew that if you came across an angry Zedaph, you better hope he wasn’t mad at you. “Zed. What’s wrong?” He couldn’t help but scoff. “You and the commander don’t know? Or did the commander not tell you?” His voice went dangerously low.

“Know what?”

“Doc’s alive.”

A pause. The air went heavy.

“You.. didn’t know..” Zedaph realized. “Did you?”

Cub looked like a deer in headlights. Zedaph felt bad for assuming he knew.

“But… his files-“

“All lies.”

… “How-“

“I don’t know…” Zedaph let out his frustration. Not AT Cub, but at the situation. “I don’t know how he’s alive.. How he-“ Zedaph’s mind went back to Doc’s files.

Docm77. Aka Doctor 77M

Last recorded in Forest A71, Cords 1107 -228

Death Time 2200

Occupation: Head of Avatar Lab Security

Zedaph remembers that day very well. DocM was a very good friend of his. The last thing he told Doc was that he was crazy. He had talked about stealing an avatar and never going back to his human body. Even asked him to go with him. And then the news from the commander.. “Sorry, Zedaph. The monsters got him. Found him out. There was nothing left.”

“I knew the commander was hiding something…”

Cub’s words broke him out of his thoughts.

“He’s been acting strange. Having secret meetings. Talking about a vault. Even with that chill demeanor, I can see the sweat on his forehead each time someone brings up Doc’s name.”

“What is he hiding?”

“I don’t know… But I’m sure Doc does..”

Zedaph, who’s eyes were on the ground, was already planning a mission to find Doc in his head.

“Don’t alert Team Red yet.”

Zedaph’s eyes shot back up to meet Cub’s.

“We need more evidence. That we can trust them and that Doc really is alive.”

Zedaph nodded his head in agreement. Of course Zedaph believes fully that Mumbo heard his Avian friend say "Doc", but Cub doesn't know Mumbo and has always been on edge every since Doc's "Death." He wont believe until he sees it with his own eyes.

“I’ll at least let Impulse know.”

Cub agreed. This stays between the three of them.

Zedaph opened the door and held it for Cub as they walked back into the empty hallways of the base.

“One more thing.” Cub said. “How did you find out Doc was alive?”

“Mumbo Jumbo. A teammate on Team Red. He met an Avian Hermit.”

Cub simply nodded and they both went their separate ways.

Zedaph quickened his steps, eager to find Impulse. While Cub’s walk slowed.

“An Avian…”

Chapter Text

To say Team Red got any sleep or got all of their questions answered would be a lie. The reason for not getting enough sleep is because the Commander had called the team to their first mission. So now, it is hours before sunrise and Team Red is thousands of feet in the air in a helicopter.

Everyone seems to be okay with it. Except for Mumbo and False. They were up almost half the night, thinking of questions and possible answers.

“At least the view is nice.” Skizz tried all of 3 hours to keep everyone up beat. With Zedaph and Impulse back at base with no contact to them, they won’t get their answers until tomorrow.

“Skizz is right.” Ren continued. “The plants glow at night. “Bioluminescence.” False flatly stated. She kept feeling like there was something Zedaph, Impulse and even the commander wasn’t telling them. Everyone would say she was slow to trust.

They finally landed after the awkward conversations.

“Alright.” A new Avatar had gone with them. Commander’s orders since Impulse didn’t go with them. The new one looked half raccoon, a backpack hung over his large stripped, bushy tail. He took no time getting off the plane. “Alright, my names Joel. I’m in charge of this mission. We are here to collect samples. We stay together…. And try not to blow anything up.” He yelled the last part behind him as he walked away with Team Red, deeper into the forest. Blow up?!

They couldn’t deny that the forest was beautiful. The sun had begun to rise and all the plants seemed to follow its rays. Joel, Skizz and Mumbo had their hands in the dirt, looking at a root and discussing it with eachother. False had her hands securely on her gun, as did Ren. Skizz and Mumbo held the sample equipment. Scar was..

“Scar?” Scar was gone.

“Didn’t I JUST say-“ A roar was heard nearby.

“Scar!”

Scar had (Not surprisingly) wandered off and was now face to face with a giant creature with horns.

“Is that a?”

“Yep, it’s a ravenger.” Joel hand signaled the team to stay hidden. “Scar, show no fear.”

“Trying not to.”

“No, I mean you CAN’T show any fear. Ravengers will charge when they see an opponent who is feared by them. Don’t run.”

The Ravenger stared Scar down before digging its hooves in the ground.

“It’s going to charge!” Skizz screamed.

The Ravenger charged at Scar. There was a small window of fear light up in Scar’s diamond eyes before a brown flash charged at the Ravenger. Ren and the ravenger stopped in their tracks midway and roared at each other. The Ravenger backed away.

Ren cheered in victory. “That’s right rhino, dude. Don’t mess with the dog!” What he didn’t see was another creature stepping out of the forest. Scar turned around and saw what had actually scared the ravenger. “What about this one?” The creature had green fur and there were dozens of them. “Run? Don’t run?”

“CREEPER!” False shouted.

“Run! Definitely run!” Joel ordered.

The team was quickly dispersed into the forest. Thankfully creepers were not very fast, but as they ran, they ran into a group of pillagers, with crossbows shooting at them. Scar was able to doge all of them and fly with speed over the tree’s. He only stopped when he heard silence.

“Scar!”

The call of his own name and a flurry of purple particles was enough to slap whoever appeared in front of him on the face. Which he immediately regretted when he saw the same Indiana Jones outfit he was wearing on the Ender-Mumbo.

“Sorry, Mumbo.”

“It’s alright.”

Scar looked around at their surroundings as Mumbo rubbed his jaw.

“Looks like we’ve split up.”

Chapter Text

Joel and the rest of Team Red had searched for their missing comrades.

“We should look tomorrow. We won’t be able to see at night.” False shouted over the comms.

“They won’t survive the night.” Joel stated. The plane turned around and headed to base.

Meanwhile, in the forest the dark took over very quickly. The plants already glowing in the moonlight. Or moonlights. The twin moons making their appearance once again, a beautiful eclipse. But not everything was silent in the forest. Scar and Mumbo had tried desperately to make a torch out of the jackets they wore and a stick. Unfortunately, they did not have much equipment on them. Which meant no matches. So they did the only reasonable thing they could do when in the forest that was making way too many sounds. Run. That also came with other dangers. Now they were surrounded by zombies of all things. Mumbo held the stick they were trying to use as a torch as a weapon while Scar hovered over the zombies and out of reach. Mumbo tried to teleport to safety but it teleported him into the zombies. One grasping his white shirt as if it was trying to rip the skin off of him. When Scar went down to help, he too was grabbed. They screamed and yelled, fighting back against the hoard that was trying to bite them. When Mumbo closed his eyes all he thought was this is it!

But it never came. The zombies had dropped them on the floor and started to back away from a bright glow. A new sound came from the light that was slowly burning brighter. Mumbo opened his eyes and saw a figure of a man standing in front of them. The man was engulfed in fire with flaming rods circling his fists, but it didn’t seem to hurt him. The zombies feared the light and back away into the darkness. Scar helped Mumbo up and when they turned to their rescuer, they too couldn’t help but fear his fire. His hair danced like a flame against the wind and his eyes as red as blood.

“Who are you?” The flame on the strangers head seemed to burn brighter with the anger in his voice.

“Scar. This is Mumbo.” Scar seemed unfazed but Mumbo could see past that mask in a heartbeat. Even Scar was afraid of the burning man.

“Haven’t seen you two before.” The fire man circled the two.

“We are not from here.” Mumbo noticed the others tail that looked like a lion, but with a flame at its tip.

“hmm… where?”

“Uh.. very far.” Scar was smart. He didn’t tell the Hermit (There was no way it wasn’t a hermit) that they were Avatars.

“mhm..” The others suspicion made his flames die down. The flames seem to show his emotions. Without another word, the Hermit ran deeper into the forest.

“Wait!” Mumbo ran after them, Scar right behind. They passed through many sights. So many plants and creatures that amazed the two, but their eyes were on the glow of the hermit in front of them. They skidded to a stop and caught their breaths as the Hermit stopped.

“wait… please..” Mumbo said between breaths.

“Tango!” A female voice appeared behind the other Hermit. Another Hermit! Before Mumbo and Scar could address the newest hermit they were pushed to the ground. When rolled on their backs, they looked up to see a shining silver sword in their faces.

“Who are you!?” This Hermit was much more intimidating. The man looked human enough, blue eyes, golden blonde hair, but it was obvious to see the two large sliver dragon like wings on their back. He even had silvering armor on like a knight.

They heard struggling behind them but didn’t dare to turn around. The intimidating Hermit sighed. “Gem, let go of Tango before he explodes due to less oxygen.”

Tango? was dropped by the girl's bear hug. “Who are they?”

“They followed me. I saved them from a hoard of zombies.”

“Tango,” The intimidating hermit did not remove his eyes from the two. “You can’t pick up every stray hybrid you see.”

“Too late. Already did.” The fire hermit said with a grin.

“We don’t mean any harm.” Mumbo’s voice rocked a bit.

“Obviously.” Gem? Answered a little disappointed. “Don’t even have a sword.”

“We were just lost and are trying to survive the night..” Mumbo tried to reason.

The Hermit hesitated for a moment before shielding back their sword. “Fine. You can follow us, but you leave at sunrise, understood?” He walked away without giving the two the chance to answer.

“Thank you.”

“Wels! Whyyy?!” Gem pouted a bit. “I wanted to hit something.”

“You can hit whatever mobs you see on the way.”

“Mobs?” Scar asked.

“Creatures.” Tango briefly explained.

The group walked through the forest. The deafening silence was occasionally broken from the forest creatures sounds.

“May I ask… what… are you?” Mumbo wasn’t sure if it was considered rude to ask that but he couldn’t help it. Wels has wings, Tango is a walking torch, and Gem has antlers that reminded him of the deer back at home world.

“Oh.” Gems demeanor changed from a fierce looking warrior to a child in a candy store very quickly. “I’m a Deer. Tango’s a Blaze Lion hybrid we think, and Wels is a Dragon.”

“Like spit fire kind of dragon or-?” Scar began to question when Wels blew fire from his mouth to set a walking Skeleton on fire. Its bones turned to ash in seconds. “Never mind. Got my answer.”

Gem chuckled at Scar’s shocked expression.

“We are here.” Wels explained.

“Here?” Mumbo and Scar looked at their surroundings. It just looked like another part of the forest. Unimpressed.

Tango chuckled from next to them. “You don’t expect our home to be in eyesight, do ya?” Before they could ask they followed Tango’s line of sight up to the trees. There was a whole village up there. Connected by swaying bridges and Hermits talking in several languages.

“I assume you guys can get up yourselves.” Gem raised an eyebrow. Wels used his wings and flew up to the first small hut. Tango jetted into the air with his fire and followed. Gem’s deer legs helped her jump great distances from branch to branch to make it up. There didn't seem to be any ladders, stairs or any means of getting up the normal way.

“Are you going to be able to make it up there?” Scar looked to Mumbo. Mumbo hadn’t exactly had time to perfect his teleporting abilities, but he felt confident. He gave Scar a confident nod and he watched as Scar made it up there in seconds due to his wings.

Okay, Mumbo. You got this. It’s not that far.. He looked up at the group that was waiting for him. Okay, it’s a bit far.. Okay, deep breaths. It’s quite simple really, just imagine where you want to be. And…

“Heyyy you made it!” Mumbo heard Scar’s voice but did see him until he opened his eyes.

“This way. We need to talk with Xisuma first.” Wels began to lead the way through the maze of rope bridges made of glowing blue vines.

“Is X suma the leader?” Scar asked as they walked.

“XISUMA.” Gem spelled out. “And yes. Even though he doesn’t like to be called that he is kind of our leader.”

Scar and Gem continued to chat back and forth when Scar realized Mumbo was no longer following him.

“Mumbo?”

The name caused the rest of the group to pause in the middle of the bridge. They all looked out to see what he was staring at. All they saw a bright red, blue and yellow pair of wings soaring in the air.

Scar leaned forward on the railing.

“Who’s that?”

Chapter Text

Mumbo’s question was not answered when they heard the piercing roar coming from one of the huts. To Mumbo its sounded familiar. The roar he heard in the jungle when he had first met the avian. Next thing they knew they were held with arms behind their back, not hurtful but enough to show power. Wels held Scar’s while Mumbo’s was held by Gem and Tango. Were they not just welcomed into the village? Why were they held at gunpoint now? They were lead deeper into the giant tree’s until they hit a clearing where a throne was built. They were surrounded by many different types of Hermits. Many were formed like many of Earth’s wildlife, but some were unrecognizable. When they were near the throne they saw two figures, one was a man dressed in green armor, seemed to be forged from their own robots back at the base. The other, was a Creeper Hermit, but when the hermit turned around and met the eyes with the two, Mumbo couldn’t help but flinch at the single robotic eye that seemed to pierce his soul. The creeper did not look like the normal creepers that they had ran from in the woods. He seemed half goat, robot, creeper, and something else that Mumbo couldn’t put a finger on.

The armored Hermit turned to face them but all they could see where eyes behind a tinted purple visor.

As they spoke there were many different languages replying to what sounded like questions. None of which Scar or Mumbo could understand. It seemed like each hermit could speak their own language and yet are all saying the same thing. “You.” Finally some Common. The voice sounded from behind them and what appeared from it was the Avian Mumbo had spoken to before. “What are you doing here?” the Avian seemed much more intimidating now, with wings flared and fangs bared. “Hey… remember me?” Mumbo asked. The Avian Hermit growled but only stopped when the armored one started speaking again.

(Speaking Galatic) Why are they here?

(Speaking Dragon) Tango saved them from Zombie’s

(Speaking Galatic) “I see how they are here. WHY are they here? Dreamwalkers are forbidden to enter.

Everyone seemed surprised. Of course excluding Mumbo and Scar.

Wels let go of Scar as Gem and Tango did the same with Mumbo. Stepping away and giving the two space.

(Speaking Blaze) Dreamwalkers?

(Speaking Creeper) Avatars. FAKE Hermits.

(Speaking Avian) It’s my fault.

Everyone looked to the Avian.

(Speaking Avian) I saved the Enderman from the Death Pit. I didn’t know he was a Dreamwalker. He seemed so… normal. I apologize.

The armored Hermit hummed. He looked to Scar and Mumbo. “What did he say?” Scar whispered to the Avian. “Father.. is wondering if we should kill you.” “Your father?” Mumbo questioned. He felt so nervous now and he didn’t fully understand why.

“We should, in all honesty.” The armored Hermit spoke English, it almost surprised Scar and Mumbo.

“Sir, please let us explain-“ Scar tried to persuade.

“NO!” The armor Hermit’s voice boomed through the hut, as his staff that was dripping purple ooze from the top, pounded the ground below it. The hermit though, was quick to hang their head with a sigh. “You will leave at once. And you won’t be back.” He turned away.

“X..” Grian spoke up. Mumbo was hopeful that Grian was going to try and persuade the armor Hermit. But Grian seemed to be struggling, his feathered ears twitching and eyes seemed to be searching for something that was not there. It did however make him stop and turn towards the Avian. No one else saw it, but Scar saw a flicker of purple in the Avian’s eyes.

(In Galatic) What did you see?

Hesitation and something else filled the air.

(In Galatic, Grian spoke) Eywa..

Everyone in the room shifted. Except for Mumbo and Scar who stood understandably confused. The armored Hermit looked to the Creeper and seemed to have a telepathic discussion. Before the Armored Hermit looked to Grian. “Very well.” Xisuma spoke. “You can stay.” Everyone except the Creeper seemed surprised.

(In Creeper) We need learn everything these Dreamwalkers know.

(In Galatic) Son…

Grian looked to him.

(In Galatic) You will teach him our way…

Grian growled. I didn’t know parrots could growl Mumbo thought. The Avian seemed annoyed.

(In Galatic) to speak and walk as we do.

(In Avian) why me? X, you and I both know I don’t like the-

(In Galatic) I know. But you will be able to spot the danger faster than anyone here, if you are near them.

Grian deflated his anger and slightly nodded. “It is decided. Welcome, Dreamwalkers.”

“Mumbo. And that’s Scar.”

“Xisuma. And you’ve met Grian and this is Doc.”

The Creeper huffed as he nodded.

“My son, will teach you our ways, Mumbo and Scar. We will see if your.. Insanity can be cured.”

Chapter Text

When Mumbo woke from the first night, he was not expecting to be woken up like Link in That one game Martyn wouldn’t stop talking about. His head felt fuzzy and there were distant voices around him, it took only a second for Zedaph’s face to reveal itself from the haze.

“Where the HECK did you two go!?” Impulse was not happy. His Ravenger Avatar making that very clear.

“You won’t believe it.”

The next thing they know Mumbo and Scar have been sent for special training in the ways of the Hermits. More than anyone else on Team Red, but not less either. Skizz, False, and Ren were sent to continue to train under Zedaph and Impulse, while Mumbo and Scar were sent to be trained under Cub. They learned about the names, who each of them were and where they stood in the Hermit Village, but they had no time to waste. When word caught on that Mumbo and Scar had met the leader of the Hermits, the Commander wanted them sent off as soon as possible. Their goal being the same and the Commander made that very clear. Learn, befriend, kill. All it left was a night of no sleep for Mumbo. He couldn’t believe that the Hermits were monsters or evil creatures. If they were, wouldn’t they have killed them before bringing them to the village, and even then why would they willingly teach them their WAYS? It just didn’t make any sense. What was the commander really after? Mumbo’s heart stuttered. Where did that come from?

“Who is this?” Cub shoved a very technological device in his face. The picture on the device held Xisuma.

“Xisuma.”

“He’s the leader. And this?” Cub showed another.

“Wels.”

“He’s their main guardian, to get to Xisuma you speak to him. This?”

“Grian.”

“And from what you told us, he’s the leader’s son. He’s next in line for leader.”

“What about that creeper we saw? He was very close to Xisuma.” Scar jumped in. “Said his name was Doc.”

The name made Cub freeze.

“He said Doc?” He continued walking, but Mumbo and Scar could feel the air shift. “You know him?” Mumbo had to ask. It seemed like there were too many secretes on this planet. More than the Hermits were holding. What secretes did they have?

“Was anyone else told about this? Who else did you tell about Doc?”

“No one.”

“We promise.”

Cub sighed in relief. “Good. Let’s keep it that way.”

Mumbo was getting suspicious. “But shouldn’t we tell-?”

“That’s and order! This stays between us.” With that, Cub turned away as the two continued to follow him, Deciding that its best to drop the subject for now, but they both felt like they were not getting the whole picture here. They made it back to Lab Z and quickly began to get back into their Avatars for Hermit Training. “Alright. Good luck you two.” Impulse helped Scar up to the sleeping chamber and closed the lid. “One more thing I remembered.” Mumbo looked to Zedaph and Cub, Zedaph getting ready on the controls next to the capsule. “What’s Eywa? Grian said something about that when we were talking.” “Eywa is their Gaurdian. Like a spirit that they believe protects them and the forest.” Zedaph quickly explained without looking at Mumbo, but he quickly turned to look at him to close the lid. Cub crossed his arms and right before Mumbo was gone he said “Don’t do anything stupid.”

As soon as Scar and Mumbo woke up in their Avatar bodies, Grian was already prepared to train them. He seemed upset the other night when he was tasked the train the two “Dreamwalkers”, but he seemed very calm about what he would do. He led the two to an opening, the sun seeped through the trees and there were wild horses drinking from… flowers? Grian brought them to one horse in particular when a strange hermit in a moss covered robe walked angrily toward them.

(Speaking Avian.) Sorry Bdubs, I need to borrow her. Just for a bit

(Speaking Glare) Absolutely not! Not with Dreamwalkers!

Grian sighed. “What’s going on?” Scar asked. “Bdubs is being stubborn.” “Bet Nether I am!” Nether? “Bdubs, come on.”

(Speaks Avian) I don’t want to do this anymore than you do. Bdubs huffed with crossed arms. He seemed to think about it for a second, looking past Grian to glare at Mumbo and Scar.

(Speaks Glare) Fine. But if Climb10 gets killed YOU have to explain to Etho what happened. “Deal.”

Grian takes Climb10’s reins and explains to Mumbo how to get on. Tango comes in with another horse. “This is Cogsworth. Take care of him.” He gives the reins to Scar, but when Tango looks over to see Mumbo on Climb10 he snickers. “Good luck, Mumbo!” “HEY!” Bdubs runs after Tango as cackling laughter echoes as they run. “What was that about?” “Ignore them.”

When they finally mounted the horses they had to learn how to connect with them. “Place your hands in her mane.” Mumbo follows directions. It feels like the mane of the horse is alive, moving along his fingers and wrapping along it softly. “That is Ze-he Lu. The bond.” Mumbo could feel it, it felt like a thousand fireflies tickling is skin, and he hears the horse’s heartbeat. “You tell her what to do. In here.” Grian points to his forehead. Telepathy. “For now. Tell her where to go.” Mumbo takes a look at his surroundings, but Scar beats him to it. “Forward.” Scar starts hooting and yelping, he was not expecting the horse to be so fast and immediately falls off it with a thud and caked in mud. Grian laughs as he runs to grab the horse. Mumbo can’t help but also laugh at Scar before helping him up. “That was crazy.”

Chapter Text

“Alright.” A Mumbo’s voice fills the microphone. “This is log 12. Time is 23:42.. and..” He sighs and turns to Zedaph, “Do I have to do this?” “Yes.” Zed answers without turning away from his work. Mumbo liked taking pictures more than recording logs, but the commander wanted things to run faster. He, Scar, Zed, Impulse, Cub, and another named Beef Vintage, have taken to location HM-4. Or the more fancier name Hallelujah Mountain Base 4. Scar was bedazzled by the mountains. The way the waterfalls turned to mist and the floating bits of rock shaped like mysterious creatures. He wanted to paint it so badly, just like back home on their home planet. Unfortunately, he might never get that chance.

“The days are blending together. Just in the past 12 days, Scar and I have learned how to use Elytra. It’s what Grian had explained as “Wings for flightless bird.” It’s hard to explain because we don’t use them like jet backs. More like gliders that air able to stay in the air for long periods of time. We try our best to learn the language. Mr. Vintage was assigned to us to learn it quickly. Grian and a few of his Hermit friends have tried to teach us as well… It’s very difficult.” Mumbo paused to laugh as the memory came up. Grian had brought his friend, Keralis, to sit down and learn the language. Grian has explained that Keralis was a mentor, and also a Bee hybrid. What he didn't mention was that Keralis was much too sweet. Trying to help them understand and when they got it wrong Grian would hit them on the head annoyed, but Keralis would calm him down every time he did and called them all “Sweet Faces.” Mumbo was embarrassed by how much that nickname made him blush. “I can tell how much it makes Scar. He always loved learning different things. Flight lessons with Grian was one of those things. Scar loves flying now.”

“Don’t make it cheesy. Explain more.” Cub grumpily stated. “Explain how Grian said to see the forest through his eyes.”

“Excuse me. That’s Mumbo’s video log.” Zedaph explained with a giggling grin plastered on his face. Cub was not amused.

It wasn’t long before they allowed Zedaph and Impulse into the village. They hit it off much better than Mumbo and Scar. Even became close friends with the blaze hybrid, Tango. As it turned out, He was much like Zedaph and Impulse… a nerd.

Every day, Mumbo and Scar would come back to their human bodies tired. Little did they know that every time they fell asleep at a desk or in their seats, Cub would be the one to bring them back to bed. Cub didn’t want to show it, but he cared for his team. Even though he didn’t agree with the commander, he could remember a time where they were friends along with Doc. He just couldn’t stand to remember such a time.

So while Mumbo, Scar, Zedaph, and impulse were away doing avatar things, Cub and Beef stayed behind in the base. “I know that look.” Cub jolted from his seat to see Beef with his arms crossed, leaning against the doorway. Cub sighed to catch his breath. “Vintage. Shouldn’t you be looking at samples?” Beef ignored that and instead took a chair and sat down across the table from Cub.

“Samples need time to run. It will be a bit.”

“Well I’m busy so-“

“He was my friend too.”

Cub couldn’t help but look away from his paperwork and glare at Beef.

“Who?”

“You know who. Zedaph told me.”

Cub sighed “Of course he did.”

Before Cub, Beef was Doc’s closest friend. Cub might have become friends with him on Planet X, but Beef was friends with him during Minecraftia.

“Did he also tell you that I didn’t want to talk about it.”

Cub was certain Beef was not going to let this go, but was surprised when Beef stood up and began to walk away. Cub returned to his work, but not before Beef sucked in a breath and didn’t turn around.

“He didn’t betray you.”

Cub gripped his pen.

“If you were in his position… Wouldn’t you do the same?”

…..

Chapter Text

One of the many ways of being a Hermit is to befriend the wildlife. Understand the way of the sky. And there was no better way than taming a Banshee. The best way to describe these creatures is a pterodactyl. In order to tame one, you first had to make the climb up to Hoa-Rah. A sanctuary where all Banshee live. Grian had decided to stay behind and left Mumbo and Scar in the care of 4 Hermit’s. Etho, a Dragonfly Hermit. Cleo, a Zombie Hermit. Pearlecent, a Moth Hermit. And Wels, the Dragon Hermit.

Wels and Etho were discussing how strange it was that Grian did not join them, while Cleo and Pearlecent (Or Pearl for short) were trying both to calm them down and scare them into riding a Banshee.

They climbed many floating rocks and vines to get to the top. Even using some of their abilities to make the trip much easier, such as, using wings, teleporting, and Cleo’s super strength. Once they made it to a small cave inside the mountain, a figure with multiple coloured wings soared their way. Making a grand entrance. It was no surprise that it was Grian himself in all his glory. He gave a fake bow telling the other’s “I see you” as a form of greeting. Cleo of course rolled her eyes at his antics, but Pearl ran up and nearly squeezed all the air out of his lungs. It never ceased to amaze them how the Hermits can go to formal like royalty to showing how much they were like a family. Just like a human. Grian then smiled at Mumbo and Scar asking, “You ready?”

Mumbo looked over to Scar to see him give Grian a thumbs up, not knowing if he understood that or not. Though, Mumbo saw right through his façade. He was just as nervous as him.

…

Back in the Hermit Domain, Xisuma was pacing back in forth in the throne room. Everyone in the Domain knew how much their leader worried, but in this moment, he had every right to be. He only stopped his pacing when he heard the roar of his dear friend.

(Speaking Galatic) Doc.

Doc walked towards his leader, his friend, giving him the greeting of “I see you.” Xisuma did it back. “What happened?”

“The Sky People are moving fast. They created these new machines we had never seen. They look like metal suits, but bigger.” Doc reported. Xisuma always sent Doc to keep eyes on the Sky People, mostly because Doc always insisted on it.

“And the small camp of Scar and Mumbo?”

“Silent. For now…. Cub is there.. and Beef.” Doc always had a hard time concerning his past. He would had never left if it weren’t for-

“They are safe here, my friend.” Doc stopped to look at Xisuma from his bowing position. “Please, stand. You know I don’t do formalities with my friends. Grian would certainly give you a difficult time if he saw you.” Xisuma teased with a grin. Of course no one could see it under the skull mask he wore. Doc chuckled at the tease as he stood up. Grian would definitely give him a hard time. He always tried to remind Doc not to do that to him. Or else he would be pranked for it the next day. “He would. Wouldn’t he?” “To be honest, I was a bit confused when you had asked me to assign Grian to the two Dreamwalkers.” Doc knew exactly what he was talking about. As soon as Grian had mentioned Eywa when the Dreamwalkers appeared, he knew that Grian had to be assigned to the task of watching them. “You and I both know what happens when Grian goes to Eywa. My circuits go all haywire.”

“I do understand…. I just don’t know what the Dreamwalkers will do if they find out that Grian-“

“They won’t.” Doc laid his paw on Xisuma’s shoulder. “Unless Grian specifically tells them, which I trust he only will if he knows they have good intention, then they will never know.” Xisuma’s shoulders sank. He knew to trust his friends and his son, but even he had to admit that trusting Dreamwalkers was an entirely different story. “I just don’t trust them Doc.”

“Took you a while to trust me.” Xisuma shot back to Doc to look him in the eye, but then huffed under his breath. “I did. Didn’t I?” Doc simply nodded back.

Doc’s history with the Hermits was most certainly chaotic…

The first day he arrived they had no idea he was a Dreamwalker. Then he “fainted” (got unplugged) and the Hermits were in a state of panic. When Doc woke up back in his avatar he found himself in the middle of battle. He lost his eye, arm, and leg that day. Thankfully, he was able to get to his base and rebuild the avatar. He equipped it with as much ammunition to fight back and protect the Hermits. Once the battle was over, he became an official Hermit. With much needed discussion with Xisuma who immediately agreed to it. When Doc came back one night looking for Xisuma, he had explained that he swapped his Avatar with his human body. Making it so Doc could never be unplugged again and was now full Hermit. No longer a Dreamwalker. Doc had let his human self-stay asleep and then buried the container, making it so he could never go back. Doc had become full Hermit for a reason. Xisuma was told the full story.

At first, Doc simply wanted to learn about the Hermits. Then, doc had the idea of learning more about them up close. So, he and Cub created the Avatars together. Cub was a person he felt he could trust the most. Beef was still on one of the Minecraftian ships that had not yet arrived, so Cub was a good friend to have around. But then, he had overheard the Commander’s plans to wipe out the Hermits and was devastated. He warned Xisuma and then took an Avatar prototype and left. He regretted not asking any of his friends to join him, but by the time he had gotten around for it, it was too late. Patrols came looking for him and would have killed him, if it weren’t for the Hermits. Now, he was declared dead and was honored the role of spy to look over the Sky People.

…

“Trust me, I see it all. If anything were to happen, I would kill them myself. I’m sure Grian would understand.. after he yells at me.” Doc gave Xisuma a determined look. “Thank you, my friend.” Xisuma felt much calmer know Doc was looking after Grian as well.

Some cheering was heard from the sky, disturbing the peaceful atmosphere. Xisuma and Doc stepped outside to see Grian flying with two Banshee’s. On those Banshee’s were Mumbo and Scar. Two other Banshee’s following. “Seems like the lessons are going well.” Xisuma then looked back to Doc who never took his eyes off the sky. “I hope whatever you have planned is on schedule.”

Chapter Text

“Haven’t gotten lost in the woods have you?” A voice startled Mumbo out of his faze. He was alone in the cafeteria, thinking about the Hermits. So many questions came and gone from inside his mind. Least to say, the hermits were not at all what he had expected. “Your last report was nearly two weeks ago.” It was the commander speaking. He took a chair and sat down next to Mumbo. “Been thinking about shutting it down.” “No, I’m making good progress.” Mumbo didn’t want this to end. “You’ve MADE good progress. Telling me about this Entity…” Mumbo shook his head slightly. He had to report back, as did Scar, but there were things he wished he had never told the commander. He’s starting not to trust him. The Entity that Grian had mentioned was Eywa. Apparently that sparked not only the commander’s interest, but their founder’s interest as well. The founder never left his office, too busy playing golf, Cub would say. Though, that didn’t silence Mumbo’s fears. A man with all the money and held none of the consequence is a man to be feared. “By the way, your friend got cleared.” Mumbo’s head shot back to the Commander. “Just like you wanted. It’s all approved, new wheelchair, new everything. He’ll be on a shuttle tomorrow.” Mumbo was happy. This whole thing was to make sure Scar got the care he needed, but.. “There’s one more thing. A ceremony. It’s the last step to becoming a Hermit.”

“If Scar and I do it, they will trust us.” That made the Commander’s eyebrows raise. “Then I can discuss the terms of their relocation-“ “Relocation?” “Yes sir… I don’t want to see them get hurt, but I understand you need their resources. It will work.. uh.. sir.”

The Commander sigh as he began to stand and began to leave. “Then you best get it done, soldier.” With that, the Commander left.

Soldier?

…

The ceremony was unexpected. Scar and Mumbo were well dressed and many Hermit’s came to give them beaded necklaces with shells, some came with gifts. Then they were presented before Xisuma where he gave a few words in his own language.

(In Galatic) You are both now son’s of the Omaticaya. You are part of the Hermits.

They were officially Hermits. Impulse and Zedaph watch from afar in astoundment. They had their own ceremony a few weeks ago. There are two different ceremonies. One was when the Hermits accepted friendship, that’s the one they all did together, but this one was when the Hermits accepted an outsider as one of their own. Not seeing them as just an ally, but a Hermit. Everyone was present during this time.. well, all expect Doc.

…

“Come on.” Grian laughed as Scar and Mumbo followed him down the bioluminescent path. “Come on!” He laughed again. His wings illuminated in the soft glow of the forest. Mumbo would have to ask about that later. Mumbo and Scar were trying so hard to keep up to the Avian Hermit, who seemed to be filled with more energy than ever. “Where are we going?” Mumbo called. They made it through a few bushes before coming across a sight they had never seen. A big, beautiful… boulder? A emerald jewel on top of it, and the lichen around it glowed like the northern lights.

“This is Eywa.”

Scar and Mumbo had their jaws dropped. “Eywa is a rock?” Scar blurted out, receiving a punch in the shoulder in return. Grian just smiled at his friends antics. “Eywa is the living source. It is a symbol of harmony. It will always contain and control all that grows here. Without it, the forest would grow dark and hollow.”

“Dark and hollow?” Mumbo mimicked. “Yes..” Mumbo and Scar waited for Grian to tell the story. “Back then there were actually two stones. Eywa and Waye as we called them. But then, the sky people came and took Waye. Digging up its roots and filling that part of land in discord. The plant life withered and the animals were not themselves. We never understood why the sky people were so eager to have it.” Mumbo and Scar were sad to hear this. To think that this story was what they were fighting for. Did they really want this? “Eywa made a sacrifice that day. It used up its magic to create a vessel that held the harmony of both stones. Eywa was so weak that the forest grew mobs at night. We are thankful that they don’t come out during the day.”

“Wow..” Scar said in shock. “That’s… ah-mazing.” Grian chuckled. “It is, isn’t it?”

“So.. what’s the vessel. If you don’t mind me asking.” Mumbo asked. He was so curious about everything. He wanted to know everything. Maybe this is worth fighting for? A small voice echoed back, but only Mumbo could hear its call from inside of him.

Grian let out a breath he didn’t know he was holding and turned towards Mumbo and Scar. “That’s why I wanted to bring you here. You are officially Hermits and I consider you both my friends. So now, I feel more confident that your intentions are good.” Mumbo felt a sting in his heart. “The truth is… I am the vessel.”

“What??” Mumbo and Scar said in unison.

“That was my response as well. Father and Doc didn’t have the heart to tell me till my coming of age ceremony.” The coming of age ceremony was a celebration of a Prince in training. “As it turns out when Eywa gave up its magic, it created a living body so it would be protected.” Grian rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly.

“So wait.” Scar rubbed the sides of his head as he recalled the story Grian just told them. “Your part stone or Eywa, but Xisuma is your father?” Grian nodded. “Yes. Not in blood though. Xisuma is more of my Guardian Protector. I just call him father because it felt natural to me as a youngling.”

“That is ah-mazing!”

Mumbo couldn’t speak. He had officially made up his mind. The Hermits were not the monsters… the Sky People were. And that included the commander. What are they going to do?

Chapter Text

The forest was awoken by the sound of thunder and metal. Grian was the first to wake up. Staying the night next to Eywa made him feel like he was close to family. Sleeping on a giant lily pad was actually very relaxing. Mumbo and Scar were on separate lily pads, but this was no time for slumber. A huge metal Beast was making a huge noise. He felt the lily pad he was on move down the river away from Eywa, along with Mumbo and Scar. Grian quickly grabbed Mumbo’s and Scar’s hands and began dragging them across the forest. Away from the horrific sound. He had to get them to safety.

…

Meanwhile at HM-4, Mumbo and Scar were eager to get back to their bodies, but were stopped to forcefully eat breakfast by Impulse. “Careful. I don’t need you guys throwing it up in the chambers.” Cub had said nonchalantly, too obsessed in his own work. Mumbo began eating a tiny bit slower, but then started mimicking Scar. Eating bigger bites. When they finally arrived at their Avatars it was to the sound of screaming. Mumbo's eyes flickered open as Grian came into view. Sound was next, Grian was screaming their names. When they stood up, they saw a machine tearing down the forest. Scar flew upward and started waving his hands, yelling at the people inside to stop. What is going on? Why is this happening?

They didn’t stop. So Scar did the only logical thing he could, break the machine as best he could. He was able to break the cameras before it started shooting at them.

Mumbo quickly grabbed Grian’s hand as they moved away from the machine, Scar right behind them. Before they stopped at a clearing. It was destroyed, everything and anything green was turned to dust. Grian covered his mouth as he sobbed at the damage. This was his home and they were killing it like it was nothing.

…

A meeting was held in the Hermit Domain.

Xisuma spoke without hesitation, (speaking Galatic) Welsknight, will lead us to war.

The crowds cheered. Grian, Mumbo and Scar raced past the crowds. “Stop. Wels do not fight the sky people.” Mumbo pleaded. Usually Wels listened to reason, but right now he was furious. “This is our home, Mumbo. I will fight for it if I have to.” “It won’t end well.” Grian ran to his father.

(Speaking Avian) Father, please-

(Speaking Galatic) No.

(Speaking Avian) Grian raised his voice, “Please, Let me fight!

Everything went silent.

(Speaking Galatic) I can’t let you.

(Speaking Enderian) Mumbo spoke, “Grian…

He didn’t want him to fight as much as his father did.

“You are not our enemy, Mumbo.” Grian spoke. Mumbo could tell how heartbroken he was. “Our enemy is out there! And they are very powerful!” Grian pointed to the sky. “I can talk to them.” Mumbo pleaded. “No, no more talking.” Wels approached. “You are either with us, or against us.” “Listen, I was sent here to-“ Mumbo collapsed before he could finish his sentence. Etho, Wels, and Tango ran to his side. “uh oh-“ was all Scar could say before he too collapsed. Gem, Keralis, and Grian ran to Scar in shock.

Chapter Text

“You let me down, son.” The commander spoke in a gravelly voice. He was not happy, but neither was Mumbo and Scar. “What? You two meet some bird and forget what team you’re on?” “Commander, there is still time to-“ Cub started, but the commander didn’t let him finish. “Shut your mouth this instant. This is the last time I deal with you.” The commander signaled to guards to grab Cub. “Send him home.” “You can’t do that!” Zedaph stood up. He and Impulse stayed quiet until now. “Shut it! Or your next!” “Or what?” Impulse stood. No one saw Impulse upset, and they never want to. “You’ll shoot us?” “That can be arranged.”

“You can’t do this. You’ll destroy everything!” Scar shouted.

“I’m getting what we need to survive.”

“You’ll kill Grian!”

“That’s his fault!”

Scar took that as the last straw and ran over the Commanders foot. He expectedly howled in pain. “Get these four in a holding facility! I don’t want to see them till this is done!” The commander shouted his orders as the guards took away Impulse, Zedaph, Scar, and Mumbo. All shouting their grief all at once. “Thanks again for your help!”

…

…

The sounds went quiet as they all walked down the shallow hallway.

“This is all my fault,” Mumbo stated. “I should have never told the commander about the entity.”

“We all had to report, Mumbo. It’s not your fault.” Scar comforted his friend the best he could, but deep down he knew it wouldn’t work.

“He’s right, Mumbo.” Zedaph stated. “If anything, this is my fault.”

“There’s no point in playing the blame game. We need to get back to the Avatars.” Those words gave the guard the right to push Impulse harder. Mumbo was about to say something back before the sounds of grunting were heard behind them. “That’s what you get when you mess with my team!”

“Ren?”

All of Team Red sttod behind the unmoving bodies of the guards. “How did you guys-?”

“No time to explain.” False exclaimed while undoing the cuffs on their hands. “We need to get to our Avatars.”

“Nice plan.” Zedaph exclaimed. Impulse gave him a look saying, “Didn’t I just-?”

…

Cub only watched the ground as he and the two guards holding his arms made their way down the hallway. How could I be so foolish? His brain said those words over and over again, until the tiniest voice said no wonder Doc left. That made him feel even more upset. I should have listened to him…

****

The sirens were loud has Cub ran through the halls. He had made it to his and Doc’s lab, pulling out his card key with great persistence, but the door only rang red and stayed sealed. He pounded on the doors. “DOC! Doc, let me in!” he yelled. Doc was about to steal an avatar. The things they made to make a new Minecraftia. “Sorry, Cub!” Cub saw the fear and determination in his friend’s eyes. “They are not rebuilding Minecraftia. They are harvesting skulk!” What? No. That can’t be right, Cub thought. The skulk they had researched was forbidden to harvest. It’s like a virus on the planet.

“They wouldn’t do that!”

“Wouldn’t they!?” Cub paused. He couldn’t believe what he was hearing. “I have to protect the Hermit’s, Cub.” Doc had turned his back and was currently loading his Avatar in one of the pods. “What about everything we worked for, Doc?!” Cub yelled. “Are you going to throw everything away?! Are you going to leave me?!” Cub’s rage fueled him and barricaded any tears that threatened to slip out.

“I’m sorry, Cub.” Doc faced him. “I wouldn’t do this if I didn’t think this was right.”

 ****

Cub remembered that day as the day Doc betrayed him, but that deep down feeling rose to the surface. I should have joined him.

The takeoff port was just up ahead when a roar echoed throughout the halls. Cub didn’t dare to look behind him until the hands let go and the sound of yelling was silenced. Cub turned around to see a huge green monster standing before him. “Doc?” “Hey, been awhile, man.” Cub would normally be happy to see Doc, but all he did was punch him in the arm. “I deserve that.” There was nothing else to say so they made their way to the Avatar chambers.

“How did you get in?”

“I designed the place.”

“And the guards?”

“Everyone is outside fighting.”

“You’re a jerk for leaving.”

“I’ll explain later.”

“Your right.” Cub turned around and stopped in his tacks. “I’ll explain now.” Cub clenched his fists. “Doc, I’ve been angry ever since you left, but when you were called dead I couldn’t help the guilt that followed. I see now why you left and I’m sorry I couldn’t have been a better friend to understand you and help you.”

“I left because I was getting fired.” Cub was shocked. “Fired?”

“The Commander was going to pull me from the program. I had to protect the Hermits. I wanted to come back so badly, but it was for the best that everyone thought I was dead.”

Cub paused. He didn’t realize how much Doc cared for the hermits.

“… Okay.” Cub turned around and kept walking. “But listen, Cub. You stood for what you believed in, and I could have been a better friend by telling you and including you. Instead I took off.”

“Guess we could both use some work.”

Doc simply nodded.

“But if the Commander digs up Eywa, not only will Grian die, but that rock is set on top of a mountain of skulk. Eywa is a giant Skulk Bomb. If Eywa is dug up, the skulk underneath will be enough to cover the whole planet.”