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“Are we there yeeettttt-?”
“Not yet! This cave is awesome AND far away!”
Karoto wondered how long he had been walking with Nabiu.
She had told him about this cave the moment he woke up from the safety of his blankets, staring at the blueberry child who sat on top of his stomach.
…Well, more on the blanket but you get my point.
That led into him groaning, saying he won't go and getting out of bed anyway cause he did not want to make his adoptive sister upset.
The reason she bothered him to get out of his bed in the first place was apparently for a really special mountain cave she found.
The mountain had the name of Somniumplar.
What a weird name.
“KAROTOOOO, DON'T TRIP!”
He certainly won't, even with all the teasing he does of Nabiu having to catch him.
A chuckle left his throat as he slowly let his lines for legs carefully slide down the rocks, noticing the gleam of a nearby water source enamour him.
The cave was painted in soft blues, matching the patterns that the water made on the stones with its light, making it a beauty to watch for yourself.
Quiet looks around for safety were made and Karoto occasionally held onto Nabiu’s cloak so she wouldn't fall off.
[Mental awareness was there she would be careful. But you can't be sure.]
While a quiet ‘thank you’ came from a soft whisper, one foot of his finally reached the rocky yet salty parts of the cave, feeling the particles on his feet.
He wondered if that would suck out the water out of his legs, even though the rocks were wet too.
Hm.
“There! Isn't it pretty?”
…Karoto had to admit, it was.
When the view finally got fulfilled, there was a huge cave with a small sea, rocks being in the water to climb over or create paths that were all softly being sloshed against by the water.
Usually, water like this wouldn't move if there wasn't-
Ah.
There we go.
With a good look up, Karoto spotted the cause of the water in the cave.
A waterfall.
“Hey, race you to the waterfall at the end of the room?”
“Hm…Alright! But be careful not to slip-!”
“Hahaha i wLASTONEGETTING THERE IS A FOUL EGG-”
“HEY, YOU CHEATER-!”
Laughter filled the empty cave as Karoto took a head start, rushing through the wet caves and jumping on the rocks with a quick precision to be faster than Nabiu.
Nabiu was quickly catching up though, being careful but using the rod she brought along to bring some stones closer to her.
“Now who's the cheater-?”
Only a giggle in response confirmed that she was being a bit mischievous today.
The bard could still take in the details though as he let the glow of the water take his attention, being in an almost cyan colour with lines of green, purple and even…white?
Probably foam then.
But there's a rule when jumping over rocks when you play with others!
DON'T GET DISTRACTED.
Because a single misstep can cause some-
“Hah, I'm- KaroTO-”
SPLISH!
Panic.
The water was cold for a moment when he hit it, but it suddenly started to feel warmer and warmer the more he sat there-
But that didn't really come into notice for him as he shakily stood up, coughing up the salty water and shaking himself.
“Hrugh- horrible idea-”
Nabiu rushed over to her brother who was now having wet legs, a bit of a wet jacket with wet sleeves and wet scarf that flopped down comically.
She couldn't help the chuckle escaping her as she led Karoto over to a dry set of stones, letting the carrot sit down as she pulled off her little satchel.
With a roll of his eyes while he wiped the salty water off his face, he stared at the ceiling too.
The rocks were almost shaped in a way that they led to the waterfall, sparkling on their own accord while vines and other plantations hung off them.
All the plants ranged from many types of green, but it was only on the ceiling that the plants seemed to grow.
Unimportant though, as Nabiu was trying her best to dry up the scarf as he shivered at the coldness ringing through his body.
But that didn't stop the M.A.G.E from smirking just a bit.
“I woooooon-”
“Uh-huh. Sure, you did, you sneaky little cheater.”
Despite his grumbling, a smile crept onto his face as Nabiu giggled her heart away, using certain potions to make the drying progress faster.
They wanted to keep exploring after all.
“Well since we have a moment of time, what is so special about this place?”
“Oh, SO MANY THINGS!”
Karoto didn't care too much that he would start a rambling avalanche.
He loved that about Nabiu.
“First of all, the cave has existed for over 200 years and people have used its water to apparently make animals who attack them mellow down. It's like a calming spell!”
She had started to flip through a boon she brought as the thief finally stood up, nearing the waterfall as the girl let the words flow out of her mouth.
“When they tried to use it on bunnies or more kinder creatures though, THEY WOULD IMMEDIATELY ATTACK! Heck, some sightings even say that harmless bees started to sting people without any care for their stingers ripping out! Just brute force without even being attacked!
Huh.
Karoto raised a silent eyebrow at that fact as he silently reached out a hand to the waterfall, noticing that the liquid was becoming more and more white and black.
Why was it…? The waters blue…
“It has been said to be abandoned due to an accident where apparently, two people came out of the cave and not just the one that entered! The other almost killed the first villager, which was pure of heart…”
The more Nabiu was talking about this cave, the more he started to get unneeded by the fact that the rocks on the ceiling were seemingly starting to have those aforementioned looking waterways…
Actually get something to the waterfall?
Was that where the water was coming from? But it's so thin-
“And nobody tried using the water again and- hey, why is the water white?”
“YOU'RE ONLY NOTICING IT NOW-?”
The entire sea that was previously blue had been starting to glow black and white, making the two nature gifts back away from the everlasting water source.
“Is it the waterfall? But why…”
Nabiu silently shivered as she pulled out her rod but stood behind Karoto, who was slowly approaching the waterfall and reaching out too-
Inspect the waterfall?
[Yes]
[No.]
…
Why
Why the hell made a single dot near the No make him freak out.
Why was there a dot.
Soft quivering was something he felt behind him, grabbing into his coat as the text box mysteriously colored in black and white instead of blue made the little kid scared.
…whatever happens, he will protect her.
So, a kind turn of the head was made, flashing a soft reassuring smile as he gently tipped her head up and gave a thumbs up.
“Let me go first. You stay there.”
…
A hesitant nod was given as the button was pressed.
[YES.] <
Carefully, Karoto stepped forward to the waterfall that showed one couldn't see their reflection in, lifting his hand ever so slowly.
He quietly reached out and-
Swish.
..
….
..
Staring.
Staring was the only thing that one could do to respond to this.
Staring was what the head suddenly sticking out of the waterfall did, water pouring down their head as the pure whiteness of their skin made his eyes hurt.
Those eyes.
They were round.
They were so white, not like a normal…carrot.
“Hello-”
“AAAAAAAAAAAWHATTHEFU-”
Karoto toppled backwards into the river, tripping over a rock and-
“WOah, careful-!”
A hand grabbed his wrist, holding his body away from the river as the whole body was finally shown and
That's
That's him.
That's a white version of-
“KAROTO- Karoo….Karoto's-?”
Both of their heads snapped over in unison as Karoto ever so slowly got pulled back up from the river, slowly facing the reflection again.
“Hello! I didn't mean to scare you into the river, friend!”
…Karoto took a good look at the guy.
It was him. But everything was white, with the exception with the main part of the scarf being black while fading to white and of course his legs were black and…rounder at the feet.
The end of the coat and sleeves faded into a faint black too, more intensive at the skin part though, with the hands staying that clean…color.
His eyes were circles. Long excited cycles. His scarf was as peppy as ever, brought up in happiness…and of course the hair was white too.
Why was this carrot only one color.
And
WHY DID IT LOOK LIKE HIM?
“Who are- Who are you-?”
“Oh, I'm Karoto! You?”
“...I'm also Karoto.”
“Oh. Well…nice to meet you, other Karoto!”
Without any restraint that he was used to, the other carrot grabbed his arm excitedly and shook it with such an extroverted force that he felt like he was being blown at with a blast of the sun.
This was so freaky and Nabiu just had to watch this interaction flow like nothing else.
“Huh-”
“OHMYGOD, A LITTLE BLUEBERRY!”
This thing did not know about social space, as it almost immediately ran up to Nabiu and grabbed her hand, shaking it so intensely that Nabiu was SHAKEN WITH IT.
“It's so nice to meet you!”
“NIIC-ICIICE TOTO-MEM-EMEET YOU TOOUO-UO!”
Karoto almost didn't interfere with pure bafflement, but he really didn't want his friends inside to get turned into pure jam, so he quickly got over there.
A quick grab was made to separate the hands, a giggle coming from both of the white carrot and the blueberry as they seemed to have their fun.
But certainly not Karoto.
“Alright, let's seriously slow down for a moment. I have questions-”
“Like the weather?”
“We are in a CAVE.”
“I think it'll be rainy!”
“Nabiu.”
Nabiu chuckled nervously as the older carrot stared down at her, but slowly decided to think…before she suddenly seemed to realize something with a hop.
“Wait-! You just came out of that waterfall, right?”
The reflection quietly blinked one eye after the other as it looked to the still white and black waterfall, the color seeming to stay as it was out here.
One nod was given in response with a happy smile, placing its hands on the side of their waist.
“I don't know!”
…
It was said ridiculously confident that Karoto felt like smacking his head against a wall.
Nabiu thought, but simply gave a smile as she pulled out her book again.
“You could be the case of a rumor called a Reflective friend!”
That only got both of the Karoto’s to seem confused, only the normal Karoto seemed a bit more irritated than the white one, who was giving a sweet ‘0’ mouth.
They stimmed with excitement as they strolled past Karoto, lifting their feet a bit as they looked down upon Nabiu with glee.
“Oh, that sounds really cool! Tell, tell, TELL!!”
Nabiu was smiling and….
Karoto…felt weird. Like something was brewing in his stomach from the attention this thing gave her.
Perhaps just dread and paranoia. They didn't even know this creature after all.
“Alright! A rumor blew after the incident that the water may be able to create copies of other people! Just not correctly…but as the opposite of themselves!”
That got Karoto to widen his eyes, staring at the white clone and suddenly realising a few things.
It was oblivious. He was secretly extremely smart and calculated.
It was excited and happy. He was without a facade someone people hated.
It was so active yet it helped him without any prize or back thought.
He…
The stomach pit got a bit bigger.
“But it doesn't seem...exactly opposite of me? Wouldn't that mean i would end up like-”
He almost heaved at that.
“Brocco-?”
“Not exactly!”
The reflection sneaked up beside Nabiu, looking at the book themselves and smiling wider from all the pictures that were drawn in it.
“It can only copy certain parts! While the creatures did mellow down, that didn't stop certain emotions or actions to stay! So it's more of a…whatever reflection!”
The reflection awed at this, taking the book into its hands and looking up to Karoto.
“So, I am you! Heh, That will get confusing.”
Such a dumb smile. It was so careless, innocent and without any kind of force.
…The feeling again.
But Nabiu seemed to get an idea, going up to the white carrot and looking up at it with a smile similar to it.
But it seemed to give him a warmer feeling.
“Perhaps we can give you a name. What do you say?”
And that got its eyes to widen, shaking its head excitedly and doing a jump onto one of the wet rocks, flailing its arms around happily.
“THAT SOUNDS AWESOME! Give me a name then! Any name!”
The two watched as a simple box appeared, once again in black and white.
What shall be its name?
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
Nabiu put her hand to her chin, thinking deeply while Karoto leaned against the yellow M.A.G.E hat and joined in the train of thought.
It should be simple…something to remember…and nothing like him.
That sounded really great right now.
“How about Otorak? But that's kind of weird.”
“And sounds like a dish.”
A chuckle escaped the reflection as it sat down on the rock, splashing the water gently with its foot and looking down.
It didn't even seem to mind the two speaking to each other about the name.
But that's when Karoto got a small idea.
Not too complicated, based on the concept and indirectly tells everyone what it is.
The arm was removed from the hat, getting Nabiu to perk up as the thief slowly typed in the name he chose.
C O P Y _ _ _ _
“...How about that one?”
The reflection stared in surprise at the name, looking at it himself from many different angles like sitting and tilting over as if that would change anything.
But a smile slowly grew on its face.
“That's a great name! Names are great, I'll take that one!”
Karoto almost smiled absently too, letting Nabiu hit the button to confirm the name.
Name chosen:
[ COPY ]
Copy indirectly smiled at the two with a chuckle, before suddenly snapping its head over to the Cave entrance that was on top of a few rocks.
“What's up there? It looks so…lighty.”
Nabiu was happy to explain as she got beside the Copy, followed quickly by Karoto who started to step on a stone and slowly walk over them.
In quick return, the white carrot followed in curiosity, to which Nabiu started to speak as the water flowed beneath them.
“That's the outside world! I bet you will love it. Oh, perhaps you can even meet Wizzro!”
A tilt of the head was received, but Copy smiled nonetheless as he suddenly jumped past Karoto and quickly waved in a quick ‘get here’ motion.
“Well, what are we waiting for? LET’S GO!”
And Nabiu?
She suddenly went past Karoto, following after the reflection with a laugh as Karoto almost slipped, catching his own breath as something…
Something was felt.
What was it? Why did it feel…wrong-
“Karoto? Are you alright?!”
“We can't go without you, Orange friend!”
Oh.
….Urgh. It's just him and his stupid dramatic brain again.
He shook his head, forcing up that knowing smirk as he rolled his eyes and quickly decided to walk through the water instead of the rocks.
“Coming! Else I'm gonna be faster than both of you!”
And when two chuckles came, Karoto felt that his brain was satisfied with the response his facade gave him, hoping that the feeling would last.
They quickly jumped up the rocks, getting support from Copy as he pulled Nabiu up first, getting a bit too excited…how did Karoto note that?
Because he climbed up himself and saw the white carrot hug Nabiu close, suddenly picking her off the ground and spinning while laughing happily.
“I'm so excited to meet ALL of your friends!”
Nabiu giggled happily too, finally stopping as he simply held her by the sides…but still in the air as she tidied up her hat.
“Of course! Perhaps some are nearby…Hey, Karoto! Didn't Lemlo and Lycra have a session today?”
Oh, yeah.
They did, didn't they? Lemlo wanted to join today and come after, so they might even be on the way right now…
Confident.
“Probably! But don't scare them too much, Alright, you pill looking carrot?”
Karoto joked softly as he bumped his arm against Copy’s shoulder, who silently widened his eyes in surprise before Nabiu gave a comment.
“Hey, I think it'll be fine! Copy seems like a real nice guy!”
“Who shook our hands so hard that it hurt-”
“Karoto-”
“What-? I'm just saying!”
As the two bickered around on their own, Copy decided to take a silent peak around the trees, listening to the birds, watching the wood…
It was all very colorful.
The leaves could be smelled through the scents, the breezy air slowly rushing past his skin as the rocks beneath him crunched together.
…He. They? Copy wasn't sure if they even had a gender.
Did that matter? Perhaps not.
….
“Alright, alright, I get it! No teasing them unless they're alright with it!
“Please keep it that way…”
“Yeah, yeah, I'll try-”
Karoto grumbled as Nabiu looked at him skeptically. He didn't know why it was always an issue when he teased people, he knew social cues!
This thing didn't seem to mind being teased every now and then, it laughed along even!
A bit of snarkiness from the bard was never a problem to anyone!
…
It.
Wasn't.
Why did it suddenly feel-
God, could his head stop making him overthink everything sometimes?
“Oh crapohcrapIMGONNABELATE!”
“Lemlo, we'll be fine! It's Nabiu, she won't be mad! And Karoto just isn’t the type to fully care!”
What the hell is that supposed to mean.
But soon enough, two people started to approach fastly, running through the grassy forest as he soon recognized the two faces.
One was a mushroom, ever so colorful with his head giving those green and purple lines along, following along while keeping his paintbrush arms to himself otherwise.
The other was the ever so anxious lemon, fast trembling with her cloak looking wings as she looked just for a moment at Lycra and-
“ELLOOO-”
“URSHSHAAAAAAAAAAAAAA-”
Karoto wanted to smack Copy for a moment.
Lemlo flinched heavily and stopped in the grass as she used her wings to stop her run, stopping JUST before Copy as he waved like an excited kid towards them both.
Lycra widened his eyes as he quietly stopped, looking at the white carrot who was currently stimming his life out from the other person.
“K-Karoto-?”
“Nono, Copy! Nice to meet you! And hello to you too, small mushroom!”
A happy giggle left him as he jumped up and down, getting confused gazes from both sides as they stared at the seemingly…changed up him.
Karoto wanted to interrupt do badly, tell him off for it and how could he danger everyone like that-
“Oh, no worries! This is actually a reflection!”
But Nabiu beat him to it, quickly running up to the two and dusting off her lemon friend's wings to make sure it was all alright.
“A…Reflection?”
Lemlo slowly turned her head to the Copy, who was already going near Lycra and softly touching his head, seeming to test around.
While Copy talked, Karoto came closer to wave towards them and inspect the situation.
“Is that a hat?”
A chuckle left Lycra as he let the reflection for a moment, seemingly sensing it meant absolutely no harm towards them.
“Kinda. Sorta my head actually.”
“Oh! It's so soft and squishy!”
The carrot seems to have his enjoyment, coming close so quickly to the people he had to put so much effort into coming closer with and-
Fuck.
Breathe. You're fine. He's literally just being nice.
“Are…you alright?”
Lemlo's voice snapped him out of his daze, quietly rubbing his back before he forced up that regular smirk again and shook his head.
“Of course! The kid has just got to be careful sometimes!”
The laugh wasn't as real, but it seemed to do good enough with the smile that came onto his friends face.
“Now, now…You said this was a ‘reflection?”
“Ah, yes! Basically a copy of Karoto that's somewhat the opposite of him! They are fun and we wanted to show them around!”
Lycra's eyes widened, silently looking at the reflection…before slowly starting to grow a soft, appreciative smile as he looked at them.
He even crossed his arms, while…Lemlo raised a silent brow, almost skeptical looking at Copy as she didn't seem that excited for it.
Almost worried.
It felt comforting in a strange way that some people shared his view.
Even if he didn't know why he felt like this-
WHY WAS LYCRA EVEN SMILING LIKE THAT.
“Well, it is good to see such a version of Karoto existing. It opens up possibilities for the future.”
What.
What do you mean.
You act like the thing is staying.
Karoto shook his head with a murmur that was left unheard by all.
[Perhaps Nabiu perked over just a bit]
“Well, uhm…does this mean we aren't gonna head for the cave?”
Lemlo decided to speak up as her ears lowered a bit, almost silently judging herself for being this slow before Nabiu quickly came up to her.
“Oh, Nonono! We can visit it later! But we first wanted to show Copy Wizzro's place!”
They all seemed so excited to simply let this…mirrored version of him explore all the places they already know. Aren't they anxious?
Don't they think it might actually be evil?
Perhaps it will kill them later and he needs to save everyone.
…
Such an egoistic thought.
“Well, we should head over then! I AM EXCITED TO SEE THE WIZARD!”
Oh, Nabiu must have told them about…
Urgh.
“Yeah, let's go! Gotta get moving…let's see if you can match my speed!”
But Karoto decided to play along anyway, simply chuckling as he started to walk along with all the others, noting the conversations Copy had with Lycra and Lemlo.
Lycra seemed so comfortable with him.
Lemlo seemed hesitant and perhaps nervous, but she smiled too.
Nabiu seemed so extremely excited to have another friend, constantly saying what the three of them could do together.
Yet the pit in his stomach disagreed with everything the others said.
Perhaps.
Perhaps it should shut up for once.
It will be fine, it can't be that bad of a day-!
- - - - - - -
- - - - - - —----------
—- - -
[LOADING SOMNIUM FOREST] . . .
[Tip: Karoto is more easily affected by the ‘enraged’ status effect. So have status healing items with you when you enter special areas, or else you might blow more than one fuse!]
- - -
– - - - -
-- -
Karoto decided that this was the perfect time to look around the forest again, taking in the trees that he didn't even notice looked weird.
All of the leaves looked completely identical. That sounds weird at first because who the hell looks at leaves, but…you could see it.
Not a single leaf was unique.
They all were the same thing.
It…scared him. In a weird way.
“Karoto?”
Oh, yeah.
“Ah- Yeah?”
Lycra had been staring for a whole while now as he patted the side, concern evident in the others eyes even with the giant mushroom head.
A quiet shake of the head made him anxious.
“You don't seem well…is it Copy?”
That almost got him to flinch, but years of restraining emotion, putting up facades and making sure no one could hear him scream made him give a smirk instead.
“Of course not! He's just a little white carrot…not like they can do much harm.”
The voice always had that snarky edge to it, giving a wink that Lycra only barely raised a brow at while Copy happily followed along with Lemlo and Nabiu.
A comment got his attention especially.
“This feels like home! It's all so cozy and warm here….hehehe-”
“Well, you were created here a few minutes ago….no?”
Lemlo and Copy were having some conversation about creation, and he noted the weirdly comfortable tone she had.
But as always, nervous undertones. Perhaps she didn't like the idea of a copy.
That made him feel relieved for some reason.
But something that didn't make him feel relieved?
THUMPTHUMPTHUMP-
“GET AWAY, FOUL BEAST-”
Nabiu flinched as she heard the noise, including Lemlo in the shivering as Copy only stared in slight confusion of what was happening.
Lycra almost immediately jumped up, getting alerted by the creature that seemed to be close perhaps attacking another person-!
“It came from over there!”
The mushroom immediately pointed out, which got Nabiu to nod as she patted Lemlo's wings, asking for a quick ride to speed up the process of getting there.
A quiet gulp was given, but without much hesitation else, the Blueberry was picked up and fastly brought over to the space, getting Lycra to run after…while…
THE STUPID REFLECTION JUST STOOD THERE-
“GET MOVING, COPY!”
Karoto yelled before grabbing the worst, receiving a confused stare and a bit of dirt being brought from the ground as Copy didn't move his feet for a solid five seconds.
“Oh- OH!”
Apparently, the idiot needed a minute to pick up the pace and follow after Karoto, checking out the noise that was screamed through the forest.
As they walked, he smelled a certain scent that he could recognize-
Cooked fruit.
Or…rather…
Heated up Dragon Fruit.
A quick rush was made as he noticed the others already having arrived, but only getting a sudden sound-
“LILY, YOU ALRIGHT-?”
“I'll be f-fine-”
Nabiu had yelled that as she was pushed back, only caught by Lycra as he held her and made sure no harm was done.
And that's when he noticed two more things.
First…THE BIG VERDOG that apparently had caught up to them all, screeching with its red pellets being extended fully to catch whatever prey it got its eyes on-
If it even had eyes.
-And apparently-
“Oh…it's you all.”
Dorago.
An old dragonfruit that was something like Lily's parent from what he heard, keeping her safe as of currently from the rampaging beast.
“Everyone, prepare yourself to fight…!”
Lily shivered, but got her bow out as fast as she could, even when a concerned gaze was given from the older fruit protecting her.
Lemlo was already flapping her wings while Lycra and Lemlo readied their weapons and Karoto even wanted to get out his guitar!
But-
“AWEEEE, It's so cute and big! Hey, big guy!”
This.
THIS ABSOLUTE-
“COPY, GET BACK HERE-!”
Copy seemingly thought it was a good idea to WALK OVER to the thing with casualness, shuffling around in his pockets as he simply reached one hand out.
Idiot.
MORON.
“Copy, you'll hurt yourself-!”
Nabiu warned as she got closer with a concerned gaze, lifting her rod to make sure there were no funny tricks with this specific plant-
Till you know, like everyone just has on them, Copy pulled out A LIVING RAT.
WHERE IN THE HELL-
“Oh, I forgot I kept this guy for safety! Do you want it?”
The creature almost seemed to glare down at him, noticing the lemon bat seeming to ready some vines incase this got really bad-
The dragon even seemed to swish its tail in anger as the Verdog simply returned the favour by letting out silent hisses.
Lily silently pulled out certain green arrows too for safety, nervously but determined looking at the thing that the reflection simply stood before.
…Karoto noted how they actually looked between the white carrot and him for a moment, seeming to get the same confusion as everyone else.
But all Copy did was offer food to the creature, holding out the rat that silently walked around his gloved hand as a dumb little smile graced his lips.
“What do you say? Friends?”
There was a deafening silence as everyone prepared themselves, the thing sniffing silently on the food and letting out a quiet huff…
…
Munch.
The Verdog brought its long snout like vine around the rat, entrapment it and silently sitting down-
The THING WAS EATING IT-?
The silence was slowly filled with people lowering their weapons and defenses, watching as the reflection not only fed the damn thing, but also reached out to PET IT.
IT DIDN'T EVEN SEEM ANGRY ANY MORE????
“Awe, who's a good boy? Who's a Verdog! You are, you areeeeee!”
Karoto couldn't help but hear the soft chuckle from Lily at this interaction, the smile on her face giving that repetitive stupid feeling again.
Why were they so easily liked by everyone?
It's just his…his…
….
Nonono, don't even think about it-
“It likes you!”
Nabiu suddenly exclaimed as Lycra gave a warm smile, both approaching the animal as it was getting fed happily with all the rat slots specialized for emergencies Copy forgot in his item slots.
What a waste. They could have been filled with healing potions and he put rats in there?
But the thought was pushed away as a certain Dragonfruit and Lemon got closer to him for a moment, only the lemon bat staying in place though for safety.
Perhaps patting the thing with a vine from a safe distance.
“...You got a twin brother now?”
“Not exactlllllyy-”
Karoto only let one nervous chuckle leave him as he rubbed the back of his head, not knowing what to really say from the mess that formed from all of this.
Lenlo chuckled ever so silently, looking over at Dorago as she started a soft conversation.
“Hey, uhm…Dorago?”
“Mm…?”
“The weather is said to be good on…uhm…Thursday. Would you like a fly walk there?”
A silent stare was left there for about ten seconds, where he already spotted her wanting to speak before suddenly answering it.
“...Sure. I'll see if I can make it.”
“A-Ah, of course-!”
She chuckled nervously, but a faint smile got on her lips as Dorago kept protectively behind Lily.
Man, what a large amount of p-
“PETUNIA, THERE YOU ARE!”
This place is filled, could you leave.
Many eyes landed on the approaching person, which seemed to be…a mushroom, specifically cream coloured and-
Wait, is that the weird CANNIBALIST. OHNONONO-
Karoto's feet moved on their own as he ran up to the others, feeling some fear that while even thought the last time Pfifferling - if he remembered correctly - was rather kind to them-
They were literally feeding the Verdog that belonged to them.
“Oh, is this your Verdog? They're so sweet!”
“Yes, yes, yes, that's mine…you shouldn't run off like that, Petunia.”
Petunia seemed to instinctively move its head away, almost in a comically defiant manner that probably neither took too seriously.
A soft chuckle left the closed eye mushroom as she carefully went up to her presumably now tamed pet as she patted the side, letting the vines that made up the body wrap around her.
They seemed to have a close bond…even hearing the slightest sound of gruffling as it bumped its filled snout against the soft head.
Chuckles left her throat as she noted the others stating, but decided to comment on the one who fed her sweet friend first.
“It's impressive that you got them befriended that quickly! Usually my Petunia prefers…getting a bit closer than needed.”
That damn face told him that was probably referring to eating Copy.
But Nabiu did not have any stomach feelings from what Karoto gathered, as she simply awed and started to pet the creature carefully, being sweet and careful to let it choose if it wanted it.
Lycra was silently going up beside the other mushroom, giving a small greeting of a wave that the cream coloured one copied, talking about something.
Perhaps food? Maybe.
“Why is your dog even here-?”
“Oh! You see, I wanted to gather more ingredients, but my dear Petunia sadly seemed to spot a butterfly…”
A glance was made over to Lily, crossing her arms at the silliness of the situation.
“Or rather, the hair that looked like one. My apologies…”
Lemlo sighed silently from a distance, speaking louder to hopefully get her point across to the mushroom…that wasn't Lycra.
“Maybe you should put a leash on them-”
“I wouldn't dare! What a horrible idea…shouldn’t such a beautiful animal run free?”
Pfifferling shook her head in an almost offended manner, even crossing her vine-like legs as she huffed annoyed to herself.
The lemon bat could only stare in slight confusion.
What a mess.
Dorago sighed, slowly going over to Lily and staring at her with an intense gaze that he didn't mean to make.
“Are you alright…?”
Lily widened her eyes but chuckled, nodding her head as she patted her adoptive fathers back to reassure him.
“Mhm! Thanks again for earlier…”
Dorago ever so silently shivered from the touch, but else let one small smile slip as he watched the Verdog happily receive oats and attention from others.
Even Lemlo got a bit less afraid and approached it!
And…it was all…
All…
Karoto felt like vomiting for a moment as he stood there alone.
Why did it feel so wrong to let the Copy do all the talking? Why did it even feel so wrong when he was just doing good?
They meant no harm.
Why did it bother him.
Everyone was fucking happy and he couldn't be satisfied-
I need attention, I need it, IT'S NOT FAIR-
“ALRIGHT, Didn't we want to go to Wizzro?”
That made most of the others snap their head over, Petunia grumbling a bit as they squeezed around their owner's mushroom head.
But Nabiu gasped, suddenly grabbing Copy's arm as she remembered that that was exactly what they weren't doing right now.
“Oh, right! I'm so sorry to leave already, but we have to show our new friend around!”
New friend, just a friend, shutupshutupshutup.
Pfifferling raised a brow slowly but slowly smiled, going up to Copy and slowly shaking his head as a small thanks.
“Of course…come by for a visit, alright? Perhaps as a reward for helping my Petunia, I'll let you eat there with one free meal.”
“Oh, of course!”
Copy was definitely not aware it could be made of his own kind, but Karoto wasn't telling him.
…Well, technically it wouldn't be his own but- You get what he's saying.
The mushroom chuckled along with the white carrot who was happily shaking the hand, shining with happiness purely from everything.
Body language, speech, kindness, all the things…Karoto didn't do-
He hated himself for thinking actually.
But finally, finally the group started to come back together, only hearing small chatters of goodbye soon enough that he couldn't help but feel happy with.
“Don't overdo it on the living food, got it?”
“Yeah, got it….maybe.”
Lycra rolled his eyes with a shake of his head at the Mushrooms comment, before Lemlo got a small comment to scare her.
“Perhaps I'll add you to my next souffle!”
Lemlo flinched with a nervous chuckle, before deciding to quickly step over to the others where she stepped on the grass beside Nabiu.
“Well…uhm…Goodbye, I guess.”
“Goodbye!”
Lily happily waved as Dorago slowly held her, ready to fly off from this forest while Petunia and Pfifferling slowly walked their own path back home.
“God, that took a while! Can't believe you just walked up to the Verdog…”
Karoto chuckled and shook his head, looking over to the Copy who simply didn't seem to mind taking in such dangers.
“That's the sacrifice for being kind sometimes!”
“Of course! Kindness is a rewarding thing!”
Nabiu quickly agreed with Copy's statement as they talked together, Karo quietly noting how their scarf was always up and ready.
…His was flopped down.
Not his fault.
“Hey, we didn't need to…go that fast, Karoto.”
Lemlo was surprisingly the one to make this point. Even if she wasn't the most social creature, she seemed to always notice the little details in the cracks.
The bard didn't know if he hated or liked it sometimes.
But he still quickly pulled up a smirk, putting his hands in a flat motion as he shrugged while winking to the ever mentioned bat.
“Lemon cake, I don't think the Verdog would have stayed calm the entire time-”
“But Copy calmed it, so it really would have been fine. Were you concerned about them?”
Lycra’s comment made him want to shrivel up and let the earth take him, because somehow that couldn't be less true.
The waterfall should have-
No.
No, we are not going that route.
He needs to stop being so hateful and vile because he was an attention seeker.
“Well, yeah! They're our friend now, aren't they?”
“WERE FRIENDS?!”
Copy suddenly hugged Karoto from the side with such force that he thinks it might have fixed the bad posture he had for a weak now.
A heavy cough left his throat as Nabiu giggled and gently tapped for Copy to let go.
“Y…Yes…f-friends.”
The word was extremely bitter and forced, but the tone was as always normal.
Just how it should be.
“Well, we should try and find a way out of his forest…the path should be here soon!”
Lycra simply mentioned as he noted the path below them, only slightly visible by the fact that some of the grass turned purple around it.
Perhaps the forest just makes its own path.
For a while, there was a peaceful silence as they walked through the rather peaceful forest, no animals truly existing here beside a few small bugs here and there.
The soft breeze that brought the leaves closer together made no sunlight come through, giving it an almost mysterious feeling….
Soon though, one could eye the exit of the forest through the light shining through a specific line of trees.
With that, Copy decided to fill the silence with questions.
“Say, do you find it weird to eat your own fruit?”
“Uh-”
What a way to start a conversation with a lemon bat, getting some confused blinking in response as the reflection simply smiled like it was a normal thing.
“Cause like. You get pulled out of the ground too. What happens if they accidentally bite into a living fruit instead of a normal one. What then?”
The stares this particular got was not to be described, because existential crises are one of a kind.
“Well, it…uhm…I….”
Lemlo wanted to say something, but Karoto decided to chime in with a fitting tone to the situation.
“What the hell is she supposed to say to that-”
“Karoto, I don't think bluntness is helpful here.”
Lycra was going to be the end of his passive aggressive nature, he swore to Nantes above.
Lycra sighed but decided to take a step over, going up to Copy and patting the side of his coat as they started to go into a more open area, finally heading for the hour clock forest to get to Wizzro.
“Look, you shouldn't just say what you think sometimes. Not everything needs to be said out loud…sometimes, it is better to think before you talk.”
That advice can be really complicated sometimes, but he agrees for Copy.
He guessed one should talk about their feelings for their own health.
Not like he was doing right now.
It's…just not that important for him. Really.
“Ah, got it! Like saying you look like a broken streetlight?”
The face Lycra made at that made Karoto snort silently, restraining the laughter else as Nabiu almost looked pitiful for the mushroom.
“Exactly.”
At least there was one good thing, as Lemlo chuckled along from the random comment, getting a laugh from…something, at least.
Any source is good.
Any source is good.
Drill that into your brain, Kingdom thief.
The walk had been nice otherwise to be honest, as Nabiu and Copy decided to play catch for a whole while through the heavy fields of the land.
Lemlo was asked to join and even though she was hesitant at first to play with the two excited friends, a nod was given after all!
The happiness that rose through here went through Lycra, laughing a bit as Copy tried to jump around to catch Lemlo while Nabiu was on his shoulders!
But somehow, Karoto got it hit right against his side like an insult.
He didn't even know why the radiation of happiness was bumping against him.
It's…not fair.
It isn't.
He shouldn't be upset because someone else was having fun with them, even if they were a be-...
Kind Copy. Kind Copy of him.
It was so easy for them. Perhaps that was the problem.
There was no fight or fear. No watching everything. Just pure kindness and obliviousness.
….But those are his friends.
They'll stay and this thing will go.
Right. That's right.
Karoto lightly shook his head as he watched the three having fun, Lycra almost seeming willing to join in as he slowly peeked over to the upcoming area.
The hour clock forest! And-
Wait….there's a wagon.
Why is there a
Wait
WAITNO, NOT H E R-
“Oh, well hello there, you five soon-to-be-customers!”
You know what, vomiting sounds really nice again today. Maybe he will do that later.
“Hi…Chance.”
Karoto could not hide the silent grudge in his voice that would usually just be dramatic and annoyed, which even the Racoon noticed.
The carrot wasn't even smiling, simply looking tired and unmotivated as his scowl grew…but the smile was forced up, showing annoyance.
“Guess you made your wares especially pricey today?”
A chuckle left Chance's throat as she slowly wagged her tail, smirking towards the carrot as she gave the nod that probably was meant to piss him off.
Lycra was like the third wheel of hate there.
“You know each other-?”
“Maybe.”
There was a staring contest between them as the glare from Karoto got bigger, while Chance could notice more and more on how uncanny this guy was acting.
Or if she would have known, how his facade has fallen so low.
“...Alright, perhaps I'll ju-’
“OH HELLLLOOOO!”
The animal looked over for just one moment and if she got hit even harder with whiplash, her tail would have fallen off.
Because the same carrot, just this time in white and with circles for eyes, was approaching her while waving like a mad man, running and jumping down the hills that they just played on.
“What the-”
“Don't question it, pal.”
Lycra almost immediately reassured Chance as the reflection stepped before the shopkeeper, looking at all the items she had to offer as he dug into his pockets.
In that meantime, the lemon bat and blueberry approached, both heaving from the pure fun they had.
“I-I- huff- will never play t-tag again-”
“A-awe COUGHCLFUXZGH-”
Karoto barely stared for a minute before forcing up the smile again, rolling his eyes in a teasing manner as he walked over and readjusted Nabiu’s hat.
“Easy, you two! Just take a breath, else you'll breathe a bit too fast.”
He kindly patted both backs as he watched Copy, almost expecting the usual outcome you would get either Chance.
She might not like him and actually raise the prizes! It was a sadistic thought, but it was his.
…Even if he felt a bit bad about it.
Hm.
“Well, kid. Did ya make your choice?”
“Mhm! I'll take…ALL OF IT!”
Ex-fucking-scuse me.
The others eyes widened in surprise as even Chance blinked for a second, an almost nervous laugh leaving her before realization hit her face from the pure lack of change from Copy’s face, showing…
Absolute seriousness without even trying.
Her tail wagged for a moment, before she grabbed herself and put her arm on the counter, adjusting the hood she wore with an award winning smile.
“If you have the money for it, it'll be alllll yours!”
The grabby hands from the salesman Raccoon made an almost instinctual angry flinch come from his body, getting a silent glance from Lycra as he still helped Lemlo and Nabiu get themselves in order.
The amount of times Chance pissed him off just so she could get more money, not caring about the fact he was already hurt-
It was nauseating.
But Copy simply smiled, digging further into his pockets to try and find something that seemed to take them about like 30 seconds that Chance stared at them.
Before-
[- 200 GOLD]
WHAT THE FU-
If Nabiu had anything in her mouth, it would have flown out like a waterfall by how wide her mouth was agape, staring at the amount of money that this reflection gave the Racoon.
Even Lemlo stared for a moment before murmuring silently.
“Where did he even…”
A nervous chuckle left Copy as he stared all around, rubbing his gloves - Is that technically skin. Is Karoto thinking too much. probably. - together.
“Is this enough or-”
“Well, my buddy friend chum pal companion-”
The way Chance almost immediately leaned over the counter, swooped up the items in a clean swipe and rolled them into a bag almost shattered Karoto’s entire ego as the world blurred away for a second.
Copy just had lots of money.
Copy was kind and reassuring.
Copy made no mistake-
As if he was perfect.
Oh, wonderful that he has NO issues in this big, miraculous world.
Good that he could control his emotions and have enough resources to make people happy.
GOOD THAT HE JUST CAME CLOSE TO HIS FRIENDS LIKE NOTHING!
STUPIDSTUPIDREFLECTIONISHOULDJUST-
Ompfh.
….
A straw attached to a cloud-like cup was pushed into his mouth, blinking for a moment as his anger slowly faded for some reason.
What…
“Ah, Hope that's alright, Karoto. You were shaking a lot!”
Nabiu.
A silent breath left him as he held the cloud, slowly sliding the straw out of his mouth to look at the baby blue stripes around the round edges of the rather squishy cup.
This was an item he faintly remembered from another adventure.
The description prompted up briefly in the air as he thought about it.
[CLOUDY CHAMOMILE]
[+300 HP for the risk of accidental sleeping time!]
Ah.
A quiet look around and the red his vision had boiled with had vanished, leaving only his pupils to follow his copy sharing items with his companions, specifically:
Lemlo getting a sugarcane block to drink from, which she seemed to enjoy at least-
Lycra holding a piece of jelly cake- (He noted that it must be cherry or something…)
And at last, Nabiu stood beside him slurping on a blueberry flavoured slush with strawberry syrup.
Whatever her preferences were, he guessed.
…For a second, he decided to take a sip from the cloudy cup, letting the liquid come up from the straw and cool him down once he tasted it.
Tasting a slight tint of sweetness, perhaps a bit of tanginess. Grapefruit, it seemed like.
Despite everything, Copy looked over and waved at him, seeming to just want to share the things he bought while the Racoon was busy counting her money again.
It was alright.
But he HAD to overreact. Stupid.
Stupid selfish thief.
He shook his head once again.
The feeling would never quite leave, he had to accept that and finally move on with his life to get to Wizzro-
“Hey, Karo! Is the forest gonna be dangerous-?”
Copy came to him with that question, smiling widely as always and pointing to said forest they were gonna enter.
It…depends.
Seriously, it depends.
“Nah. We will protect you! After all, that's what a hero does.”
A hero.
The others gave him a soft, confused look as the lie had been lifted a while ago. Especially with community work and everything.
Only Lycra had the change that showed doubtfulness, questioning his words.
Don't do that.
It's fine. White lies are fine.
“OHHHH, THANK YOU!”
“Hurgh-...N-No…problem, b-bud.”
Just play along, it'll be fine.
A giggle from his right came from Nabiu as he balanced him from the lost hug, grumbling at the pure strength the reflection had.
Lemlo luckily came right after, ready to follow along with Lycra as he had finished up his jelly cake.
But the sugar cane box remained.
Well…they needed to move forward, so with a final wave to Chance who more or less absently waved because she still count the money-
They finally went into the hour clock forest.
It was a good time, so none of the trees moved for now…at least not too much so that the path would be confusing.
Right now, it was just like the path Nabiun took the first time they ever met.
A blessing he didn't even recognize.
“Awe! So many birds!”
“A-Ah, yeah…They're called Clock birds.”
“And those?”
“Flutterpups. Sweet things are sometimes used for therapy pets.”
The conversations were left in the air as Karoto decided to stay behind, quietly watching the chatter go on and on while they occasionally looked back.
Lemlo asked sometimes if he wanted to join the conversation and Lycra asked if he was alright.
[He usually would talk so much to fill the emptiness of the silence.]
But he reassured, even with Nabiu raising a brow and Copy happily exclaiming that he would love to talk to Karoto even more-
He was fine. Just tired.
A lie. A white lie.
…Well, it depends on how you look.
The forest was surprisingly tame when no one was pulling on your scarf, twitching and ticking at every corner serving as sweet white noise when the music became too much.
The thief didn't even know why music was in the air a lot in these kingdoms. Perhaps just the natural noise…
Well, it made things more enjoyable, so who was Karoto to complain?
“Oh, what are those jelly things?”
“Those are Gibbons! Be careful, they don't like Karoto apparently.”
Well, from research that he got from Wizzro, that wasn't exactly true.
Didn't stop his hate, but at least he had a reason.
Gibbons tend to steal things just like him, trying to catch the poor victim off guard and take their stuff for their own enjoyment!
They almost took his scarf, those PIECES OF SHIT-
So in a way, they were pure evil and should get melted in the sun.
A sigh left him though. He…just wanted to have a good day after everything.
Copy couldn't be that bad, he just seemed overly oblivious and kind to everything.
He wished innerly he could be too.
“Oh, hello, big guy!”
“Careful now-”
Karoto looked up again at the noises.
A Gibbon slowly reached down, staring at Copy in particular as Nabiu decided to take this time to show her sketches with Lycra.
Lemlo silently flinched as the Gibbon tried to grab her ear, but quickly got a smack in response which made it retract its arm.
But then, it eyed Copy, who was happily holding out his arm and-
It made a grabbing motion.
OH HELL NO-
The thief knew how to be speedy when needed and without much effort, FUCKING TACKLED COPY FORWARD AS THE GIBBON SLAMMED ONTO THE GROUND-
"Screw this place-”
Copy had an :0 face the entire time while the others stared in absolute bafflement at the movement, Nabiu indirectly following along.
“Why did you do that, friend?”
The reflection was none the wiser as they were helped up, snickering as the Gibbon simply retreated back into the trees.
The carrot rolled his eyes silently with a sigh, deciding to just go with the most simple answer while forcing his smirk and shrugging.
“Didn't want your scarf stolen by them! It is very precious after all…”
Copy raised a brow at that.
….Oh.
He may…not care for it as much as he does.
…Doesn't matter-
“Are you two alright-?”
Lycra called after as he checked up on the two, but was quickly waved off by Karoto as he already began walking forward.
“Yeah, yeah! Let's go, we should be at Wizzro's soon!”
Nabiu sighed under her breath and weirdly, it caused a pain in Karoto's stomach.
“Don't you want Copy to at least explore a bit more?”
Copy.
Copy that, Copy there, how about Copy following us and actually doing absolutely nothing otherwise-
“Uhm..I…dooooooo-”
Karoto said with a nervous snicker but silently rolled his eyes to the side with a slight frown, rubbing the back of his head.
They weren't able to see the frown as he just couldn't face them.
What's the point.
“...How about you go first and we stay a little with them, hm?”
Lycra was the one to walk forward, suggesting it in a way too gentle voice that he just wanted to block out entirely.
But he innerly knew that Lycra knew what was best.
“I guess you can do that.”
A quiet murmur left him, not having the motivation to raise it more than necessary as he crossed his arms.
Of course, Copy had to barge in like with everything else.
“That means we'll see each other again at the wizard's house!” A happy wave was made towards him. "See you!!”
Their voice shouldn't be this grating.
But the carrot forced his smile up, giving a thumbs up and turning once sound to meet their uncertain gazes.
“See you four soon!”
With that, his feet finally moved forwards through the path, heading for that sweet little house that took a thief in.
The Kingdom thief nonetheless.
How naive.
What a selfish way to speak of the man who helped him.
A quiet look over was made to the local Fungi, quietly sleeping on the ground as one of the rare bigger ones seemed to have appeared to watch over the small ones.
It gently sat over a pile of them, staring back at Karoto with a slight growl.
Protective nature. Luckily, he wasn't on feeding duty today, so no interruptions would be happening today.
Putting his hand in his pocket, he quickly pulled out a key and unlocked the door.
The smell of chemicals alerted him to the fact that Wizzro must be doing potion class right now, meaning no interruptions here either.
At least there was no Copy being stupid in here.
Howfuckinghypocriticalhuh-
Shut up.
“-nd then you simply pour in the Lava potion. Carefully!”
The voice of the old M.A.G.E brought him out of his inner turmoil, deciding that perhaps standing there wouldn't be the greatest option.
Especially for such a fragile mental state like his.
So, his legs stumbled over to Wizzro.
And even with not a single word exchanged, glances told Karoto enough that the old man wouldn't mind him standing there for a moment.
From what his gaze told him, they were making a Lava lamp potion. Nasty things, especially when noting how angry and blunt it could make a person.
That Lava lamp monster wasn't easy on him last time.
He sobbed surely, even if the anger blurred his memory.
But back to the not depressive memories.
As the interns worked on the potion, Wizzro addressed him with a quiet voice, kneeling down just in front of him.
“Hello, Karoto. Are you alright? How was the trip to Somniumplar?”
There was an urge to avert his gaze, not wanting to burden the guy that practically went through so much crap just to get him somewhat stabilized-
But…he quietly decided that he neither deserved being lied to.
“It was fine, but…uhm…There were a few…complications.”
A quiet tilt of the head made Wizzro sense there was something.
There is always something with him, can't there be NOTHING-
“Do you need a hug?”
…
He
He did kinda, didn't he?
Despite no words shared, the Wizard opened his arms. The ones which the Carrot slowly walked into, pressing himself against the beard.
He should return it. But the warmth made him lose the strength to even force his smirk for a moment, leaning into the affection.
"...Sorry."
“You're alright.”
The soft rubs were like a safe haven to the thief, quietly growing a genuine smile that was much smaller, but full of appreciation.
Even with the eyebags and tiredness that laced them.
There were some stares but otherwise, the interns minded their business like always-
Clink.
Karoto almost flinched out of the embrace as Wizzro caught him.
He almost fell onto the floor.
So much creaking before-
“OH MY GOD, SO MANY SMALL PEOPLE!”
Oh dear Nantes, he's gonna puke for real this time. Where's the next tree?
Many eyes were snapped open as the clone entered the building, alongside a surprisingly leaf covered Lemlo that was currently getting help from Lycra.
Poor girl must have been thrown leaves at, but at least she was reassured quietly.
“It'll go off, Lem. Promise.”
“I hope so. mmpfh-”
The quietest uncomfortable squirms came from plugging some of the pieces off as Nabiu ran after Copy.
The interns pretty much started to pile up around the white carrot, shining with curiosity for knowledge.
“Woah, a white carrot-?”
“Look at his scarf! It's actually up!”
“Are you his long lost twin?”
“You should try and blink! Can you blink?”
“You look like foam!”
Chattering filled the room as Karoto knew that his facade had to go on, even with this stupid-
No.
Stop it. You're jealous. Shut up.
This…simple reflection being in the room and being bombarded with questions.
“Oh! Are these the complications you were mentioning?”
Karoto chuckled silently and Nabiu stared for a moment in confusion, almost indirectly eyeing the carrot at that statement.
She always wanted everyone to be appreciated.
“Haha, yeaaahhh…uhm, guessing you had fun?”
Wizzro quietly noted how Karoto stumbled forward, adjusting his sleeves as he looked over to the white carrot with that same uncertain glint.
Some could see it. Some not.
Copy surely couldn't, as he just laughed and even picked up a singular strawberry!
“Oh, u-uhm-”
“Hello, little one! What's your name?”
She gulped nervously. It was almost like a quiet staring contest as the other interesting watched the ordeal with interest.
“...F-Fragaria…”
Copy gleamed at the answer almost immediately.
“What an adorable name!”
The laughter that filled the room was honest and sweet, the other interns slowly jumping as they wanted to be picked up as well.
Everything was fine!
“Why did you call Copy…complications?”
Lycra, don't ruin the moment.
“I'm guessing the white Carrot is Copy?”
Wizzro chimed in rather quickly, watching the poor strawberry being twirled around before Tate and soon the little fox was picked up, everyone getting a turn.
One firm nod came from Lycra.
“Indeed. You wouldn't know how excited this thing is about everything!”
A chuckle came next from Lemlo, but it sounded much more unsure than everything else.
Oh, how Karoto could relate.
“Yeah, heh…Nabiu, you said it was from the cave we wanted to go to?”
With a quick nod of agreement, Nabiu pulled out her book, flipping through it to show Wizzro her research about the rumor!
…At one point, the carrot blurred out the conversation.
It was so selfish.
Why was he so jealous about Copy? They were nice, of course the interns liked them immediately.
They were good with people. They didn't steal. They didn't have a facade.
Of course.
They could be his replac
….
That thought made a lump form in his throat.
Heshouldntcryoverthisitssostupidshutup-
“-ou all wanted, we wanted to take a trip to town together. Copy could come along!”
Wizzro's voice brought him yet again to reality.
He didn't completely get all the sentences as they started, something with Copy getting excited and the interns cheering so damn loudly his eardrums might as well burst-
But…Lycra seemed to approve as his hearing slowly worked again.
“-terall, it could show the progress i've seen better.”
What progress.
The progress of Copy being a damn friend stealer-
Shshshshshhhhhhhhhh. Brain. Shh.
“Oh, of course-!”
Karoto chimed in suddenly, deciding that being part of the conversation was beneficial all of the sudden.
Nabiu did not seem to mind, as she happily noted something he had forgotten.
“Alright! This is good timing as we wanted to do the quest Candaline gave us! Remember, Karoto?”
Uh.
Oh, THAT QUEST.
Right.
Candaline had said yesterday that she needed more Honeyberry jam from that weird forest man. He didn't want to question his ways.
Not with bees that looked like they were dunked into jelly.
The only reason she didn't get it herself was because that peach child needed to be watched a lot.
Couldn't blame her, that kid…was young. Even if he didn't know the exact age.
Meaning that Nabiu and he had needed to get it, but by that point it was late and they needed to go to bed and-
Yeah, you get his point.
It should all be in the fridge-
“Right! I'll get the jam, you just go early.”
That comment made Wizzro perk up with concern, the look making Karoto physically retreat back into himself.
“Are you sure? We could wait-”
“Mhm, yeah. I, you know, just- need…a second. Alright?”
The stares.
God, the stares just were filled with concern and uncertainty that Copy really wouldn't need.
He needs to stop thinking about him.
That white waterfall crawler-
Just breathe.
Breathe.
Lemlo decided to be the one to talk to Karoto, walking forward and kneeling down in front of him to match the height.
“Well…Alright. We will meet at Candaline’s then?”
…
A forceful nod came, just perfectly fitting either that smirk that just barely reached his cheeks.
Lycra simply gave a firm look exchange with Wizzro, who decided to mention something as well.
“I will see if we meet. Especially since I have to make sure none of the interns get lost in town, even if I do trust them-”
“Ah, you're fine! I'll be fine. I'll be just…fine.”
A sigh. Too many sighs today as Karoot averted his gaze and turned around-
Juusssttt catching Copy having the interns follow him like ducklings, leading them to Wizzro and snickering along.
The conversation slowly left his ears.
“This is gonna be so much fun! I've never been to town before!”
“Well, I hope you-...oy- t. “
“I-”
…
The conversation was gone.
He entered the kitchen with ease as the only noise accompanying him was that of the clock on the wall, ticking along with every second passing.
No counting was needed. Just letting it flow was enough.
With a quiet noise, the fridge opened up, greeting him to the side of food. Lots of food.
Leftovers, drinks, snacks, the one take out they ordered and still wanted to finish, chicken from yesterday-
Ah.
Honeyberry jam.
The glasses were lined up in a small row to keep space, exactly three as he counted, wrapped in a neat red and blue paper.
He had to admit, he would eat it if it weren't an item for said quest.
Three glasses slowly landed in a bag he grabbed from a drawer, the ones that Wizzro kept usually for grocery shopping or ingredient getting from other people.
Sociable. That's what Wizzro was.
With that, he closed the door of the fridge again, but not leaving without taking a look at the door.
It had been long decorated with photos of past time, fridge magnets and drawings Nabiu and the other interns made in their free time.
…Absentially, he noticed a recent photo that was taken of him and Nabiu finger painting.
He remembered that day.
_________________________
“Careful now!”
Wizzro's voice was laced with a huffed laugh, looking at the mess Karoto made on his face from all the paint.
“This-” Nabiu said with a snicker, letting a green finger slowly paint grass on the canvas. “-Is why we wear only white shirts.”
“No kidding…”
Karoto joked with a murmur, looking at the messy drawing of some instruments he was making.
His face was a painting itself with how much it had been coated in brown and yellow paint.
Brocco had been free for that day, watching them as well as he gently scraped some of the dried paint off Karoto's hair.
“You really need to be more careful.”
“Oh, shush.”
The laughter had been affectionate as he snickered along.
…it felt freeing.
He only flinched a bit once Wizzro took a photo of them, but it showed him smiling.
_________________________
The Photo made him smile quietly.
It…was one of the days that he didn't feel like drowning in existential dread.
It was just a good day.
But he couldn't just dwell in good memories today! He had jam and music to return to his friends, which meant picking up the pace!
He snickered a bit to himself, pocketing the jam more properly before running through the house to get through the entrance door.
Perhaps today would be kind.
Karoto just needed a small cheer up like this.
It can still be good.
- - - - - - -
- - - - - - —----------
—- - -
[LOADING TOWN PLAZA] . . .
[Tip: Candaline's shop is the perfect spot to mix your items together for new ones! Whenever you may think one fits together, visit her place!]
- - -
– - - - -
-- -
Karoto almost heaved as he finally reached the filled Plaza, bustling with people and commotion as several adventurers, fruits, humans and more were busy buying things.
He almost caught his breath again, but reminded himself of the many exercises Nabiu taught him for his Claustrophobia-
Breathe in for three seconds.
Then in for another three.
Focus on your scarf, hold it if needed!
Right.
He placed his gloved hand onto his scarf, lightly fiddling with the fabric as he ignored the angry stares and looks he was getting from nearby folk.
Like always.
The thief got used to it, but that didn't stop paranoia and anxiety from kicking his ass every time the memory of past thievery popped up.
But it's alright. Brocco should be nearby somewhere, he's on guard duty currently! That means he'll be safe if he's in sight.
Everything's alright.
It's all alright.
A quiet breath out was the last thing he needed to calm down, slowly making his way to the restaurant that Candaline owned…or bakery?
Whatever fits, or whatever he doesn't recognise.
Clink made the door as he entered, alerting his presence to the supposed Cat and-
….Oh for Nantes sake.
“And, how does it taste, my Friend?”
“MMmfhpfhfpdh!”
“That sounds like happiness!”
The laughter that filled the room as Nabiu and Candaline laughed at Copy's antics of eating some kind of cake did not affect Karoto in the slightest.
It wasn't bothering him.
It's alright. Breathe. They're just….having fun.
“Hey, Nabiu? Copy?” Karoto spoke as the heads turned to him, slowly noticing something. “Where's Lycra and Lemlo?”
Nabiu immediately smiled as the peach kid he mentioned earlier peeked from behind the counter, including another person…the mint leaf.
Zetz.
Probably a customer from the cookie bag she was holding.
“They went shopping! Lycra needed some food and rewards for his arena!”
Karoto hummed in response, giving a firm nod as he walked over to Candaline and attempted to give a soft wave to Copy.
They softly waved back, giving that same smile they had on the entire day.
It…seemed genuine.
The gaze was quickly averted to the purple cat, stuffing his hands into the bag filled with glasses of jam.
“Alright, sorry for the delay but Nabiu and I got all the jam that you requested.”
The glasses were quickly placed on the counter and a soft noise of happiness came from the child, squeaking as Zetz snickered and picked her up to put on the counter.
“Ah, wonderful! That means I can make the jam donuts I wanted to make for so long!”
Candaline happily clapped her hands together, quietly thanking Zetz as she held her child with one arm and the jam glasses with another.
Zetz smiled more, adjusting her scarf and looking over to Copy.
“Oh, her donuts are the best in town! I hope they are done soon!”
“They are? That's wonderful, I adore sweet stuff!”
Karoto almost refrained himself from asking for a reward as the mind and reflection talked together happily, but Candaline seemed to notice what she forgot.
“Oh, Nabiu, Karoto- I almost finished a batch of special rainbow cookies, I hope that suffices as a reward?”
Nabiu chuckled softly, giving a thumbs up as Karoto gave a happy nod in response.
“Of course, Mrs Candaline! We will catch them after showing our friend around for a bit!”
“What Nabiu said, Ma’am.”
Bits of politeness never hurt as the Cat smiled softly, giving soft nods in reasons as she turned around and patted her adoptive child.
Zetz happily talked to Copy as Karoto noticed, seemingly showing off some dance moves that she had been practicing.
“And now, just twirl!”
“Twirl, Twirl, TwioOP-”
…Karoto restrained a snort as Copy fell right on the floor, groaning in slight dizziness.
He decided to approach them, helping them up with a helping hand and deciding to take on a nicer tone.
“Sorry to interrupt you're fine, but we wanted to show you around…Can't do that if you day here taste testing and dancing all day.”
“Ohhh, Correct!”
Copy was an oblivious fella as he noticed.
Naive, dumb, perhaps they think of people lower than them without a thought-
…Hm. Not a good thought. Be more positive, like them.
The reflection quickly made their way over to Zetz, shaking her hand a bit more tenderly than they did back at the waterfall and giving a soft smile.
“Sorry to leave so soon, but I have to see the woooorrrlllddd!”
Luckily, Zetz chuckled as she slowly nodded, giving a soft twirl and a bow in response to the performance earlier.
“No problem! You were great fun for the small time we spent together! I hope you will enjoy the town.”
The two laughed some more before Nabiu finally got Copy at her side, leaving the building with the same clink the door did earlier.
Nabiu seems to have something to say though.
“Hey, Karoto? Is it alright if you go alone with Copy for a while?”
The Carrot very much snapped their eyes open in surprise while Copy peeked over to the two.
“What-?”
“I really, really need to go get something with the other Interns-”
Something in Nabiu's voice told him from experience that she didn't actually need anything, but wanted the two to talk for a while.
It's not like he could blame her, but she could just stay it.
….She's a kid, what does he expect? Perfection?
Hell no.
“Soooooo, could you pretty please with a cherry on top be alone with Copy for a bit?”
For a moment.
The bard considered to say no, mainly because every time he is with this white Carrot, his hair might as well aflame itself from pure anger.
But…he did want to be nicer and more understandable towards Copy.
Just to perhaps try getting a proper connection and even understand his inner workings.
So, with the most silent sigh yet, he gave a boop to her nose.
“Of course I can! Can't be that hard.”
The smile she gave was enough to convince him, even if she said yes already while Copy clung to his arm like a Koala.
Affectionate much, but he didn't mind.
“That's great! Hehe…I'm gonna go now! See ya!”
“See you, Paintball!”
A slight groan came from Nabiu, but one of the comical kind as she walked away to where Wizzro went.
…That only left him and reflection.
Which led to them slowly walking in silence as his anxiety silently boiled up from the pure amount of people, especially the glares.
They seemed to soften every time Copy came close.
Stupiddontthinkaboutitheskind-
It was like his hate for Copy was boiling under the surface, only a lid keeping it from boiling over completely, one that Nabiu, Lemlo, Lycra and everyone who was talking to Copy kept shut.
It's…weird.
“What's going on, friend?”
That sugar sweet voice that was going to give him diabetes made him snap out of his thoughts, the movement also making him notice his favorite guard.
Brocco.
It made him feel just a little safer as he started to talk.
“I…don't know what you're talking about! I've just haven't been in the best mood.”
Copy blinked silently.
Their obliviousness was gonna be his end and his damn saviour, because they simply smiled back.
“Ah, got you! Can imagine with all the rats lurking around the alleys.”
That sentence made him raise a silent brow. Was he talking about…
“You mean the rats that you kept in your pocket?”
Copy chuckled happily, shaking his head as the encounter with Pfifferling seemed to not be a case opener here.
“Nonono, the thief's around these parts!”
…
What.
“Sorry?”
“You know! Those Weirdos that eat out of the garbage or keep stealing from the market!”
They
Nononoitstheirobliviousnessshutupshutup-
Karoto shakily put a hand on Copy's shoulder as they laughed, the laughter seeping into their brain like a parasite.
“Hey, perhaps you shouldn't judge. They have their reason.”
Copy looked over with a raised brow, simply shrugging.
“Well, yeah! Greed! I don't understand how anyone can be this ruthless in such a beautiful world!”
Beautiful.
Beautiful in torturing an 11 year old for living-
“Maybe it's not as beautiful.”
“Of course it is! Nabiu is sweet, Lycra is so smart, Lemlo is nervous but overall such a good person! There's no reason to be such a bad person!”
You know. There was something about a lidded pot that was important to note.
“You think this is so easy for some?”
“Mhm! After all, bad people need to be punished, else they don't learn! Simple logic.”
When you keep it on too long, it will fill up and boil over.
It doesn't matter if there is a lid.
It's liquid.
“...So I'm a bad person? Is that why you have been acting like this-?”
“Huh?”
Liquid seeps through everything. It gets through everything with enough force.
So in the end?
“I'm a thief. Do you think just because you are my better Copy, everything you say is fucking great?”
“Uh-...Well, it is j-just my opinion! I didn't mean to offend you!”
It will boil over all the same if the lid isn't lifted manually.
“But you have. You just kept talking to everyone as if they were all good people! But they weren't!”
Copy took a step back and perhaps he should have stopped.
It's not fair to them. They didn't know anything. They didn't think like he did.
But yet, jealousy comes a long, Long way.
So does trauma.
“You've just been making friends and if they couldn't care less! You've been bribing them! PRETENDING YOU SHOULDN'T DO MORE!”
Logical thought ceases once rage enters your brain. It shuts down that part. It's quite interesting.
It shuts awareness off. Perhaps that's why he didn't notice the people getting closer.
“Karoto, i-im sorry-! I didn't know it would make you t-this angry-!”
“BUT IT DID!”
His ears rang slowly but surely. It was like Copy's voice was just another fake little thing about them.
It was all fake, wasn't it-?!
“YOU TOOK LEMLO. YOU TOOK NABIU. HECK, YOU BEFRIENDED PEOPLE WHO HATED OR WERE HESITANT TO MEET ME!”
He pointed so heavily he might as well have given the poor reflection a wound.
“AND YOU ARE M E.”
It hurt. It hurt to yell at this STUPID REFLECTION.
ITHURTITHURTITHURT-
“YOU SHOULDN'T HAVE EVEN COME OUT OF THAT STUPID WATERFALL! YOU SHOULD HAVE STAYED NON-EXISTENT-”
The panic in Copy's eyes was not seen.
The hands grabbing him were barely noticed.
And in a flash-
THUMP.
…
….
….
Hurt.
His back hurts.
His throat.
The ground was cold and unloving as he was kicked in the stomach once, getting a cough out of him and a sob.
When did he start crying?
“God, this stupid thief-! I knew he was unstable!”
A citizen. Someone. Multiple people were whispering and complaining.
What. Had he done.
He listened some more.
“I'm so sorry, little guy! It's just…urgh…the Kingdom thief.”
The reply Copy gave was barely registered as he slowly hoisted himself up by shakily pressing his hands against the ground, still kneeling down.
“Don't even look at him. This disgusting creature.”
“How could Wizzro even take him in?”
“He should have been executed!”
“Always such tantrums in public…”
“At least you're better than him!”
“Perhaps he should have been beaten more.”
“You think the cell would suit him more?”
“He should have been gone.”
“He can't stay.”
“What a disgusting Freak.”
…
..
Walking.
Walking is what he had done as the voices blurred out, for once letting him pass without any protest.
They must have noticed he was leaving town.
Good for them. They know how to make great decisions.
There was another voice, usually strict but tenderly worried, reserved for him, remaining him of trees.
But he didn't listen.
He hurt everyone enough.
He hurt Copy out of jealousy.
He stifled others heavily out of his own little selfish desires.
…
….
The forest kept up the ringing, but it was less.
He needed to keep walking to Wizzro.
He needed to pack his things.
Something to make everyone just as happy as they were with Copy.
Leaving.
Leaving forever due to all the pain he caused.
_________________________
____
_
“I- EVERYONE, QUIET DOWN!”
Brocco was utterly flabbergasted at the pure mess that the Plaza had turned into, people complaining for some reason as he had almost catched Karoto walking away-
Goddamnit, this hellish place-
He had now just noticed the other Carrot. The one bathed in white and fading black, looking up in pure fear and confusion with black tears lacing their eyes.
Just like Karoto. Just much more innocent.
“God- WHOEVER KEEPS HERE, IS GONNA GET A BILL!”
Now, you would say that's illegal, but it did make people groan and finally walk away from the crowds that have formed.
He groaned silently, holding the Carrot at his side and looking over.
“...You're not Karoto, I'm guessing?”
“N-No…Is he alright-?!”
Brocco asked himself that sometimes.
But for now, all he could do was reassure this one, sitting down on the done stairs to get to the little guy's level.
“Of course. Wizzro should be home with Nabiu, so-”
“What happened here-?!”
Huh?
Brocco snapped his gaze up as not only Wizzro came into the main Plaza with all the interns holding bags with confused faces-
But also Nabiu, having returned with Lemlo and Lycra so that she could happily return to Karoto and Copy with no issue.
But that wasn't gonna happen.
“Why are you all-?...”
“Where's Karoto-!?”
Nabiu sprung up first, rushing over to Copy and grabbing them by their jacket to hold herself up to their chest.
Lycra followed after with Lemlo only slowly coming closer and keeping a safe distance, looking at the angry people who seemed to be…eyeing the town exit.
“He already didn't look great previously- Did something happen?”
Lycra noted next, the interns softly whispering between themselves at the events that had happened.
But…Copy only whimpered and wiped his tears.
“I-I…don't know? All I talked about was how terrible thief's were! And how they need to be punished and stuff!”
…
The silence.
The utter silence was probably the loudest thing in those few seconds.
“You did what.”
For once, even Wizzro's tone sounded horrified at the implications of what had happened to bring this many people here in the first place.
Lemlo covered her mouth in realization, looking down in horror.
“...Copy. Listen to me closely for a second.”
Nabiu for one second was more firm than anyone else, gripping the coat closer as she noted silently how the scarf was flopped down for once.
“Do you know about any kind of history involving Karoto as his reflection?”
…There were a few blinks.
Confused ones even.
“No? He seems like a nice guy! He blew up on me once I mentioned them though…must not be keen on it.”
“Copy, Karoto was a thief.”
Lycra almost said it in a baffled tone, but knew to give Copy the benefit of the doubt here.
They didn't have the intense knowledge Karoto has with all of it. They were oblivious in the worst way possible.
One needs to be careful with what they say sometimes.
Copy snapped their eyes open more at that, the circles completely round now.
“He-...He was-?”
“...Yes. One of the most famous ones even.”
Brocco exclaimed silently, looking over with quiet anger at what had just happened over a misunderstanding.
Copy stared in horror slightly as the sense of awareness of what had just happened had grown on him.
The pot had exploded from too much pressure.
“Look, we will-...Explain it to you on the way home, where did Karoto go?”
Lemlo chimed in quickly, opening her wings and stepping over so she could be ready to fly wherever was needed.
It seemed…like an emergency.
“I-I…he went out of town. Right that way.”
“Then we need to go. You know how deep his thoughts get.”
Wizzro glanced silently over to Nabiu, who gave a glance to Lemlo as a small plan was forged.
Brocco quickly hoisted up Copy onto his back, letting him stand there with a good hold as Lemlo quickly let Nabiu go on her.
Lycra quickly made a box and slipped into it while Wizzro went along with the interns at Brocco.
Oh.
How could this day have gone so wrong?
- - - - - - -
- - - - - - —----------
—- - -
[LOADING ???] . . .
[Tip: The Star species are heavy messengers across the land, coming down from space to give advice. Summon them if you need any special info!]
- - -
– - - - -
-- -
Walking.
That's what Karoto has been doing for a while now as he carried the backpack filled with the stuff he owned.
It wasn't much. It only increased because he's been gifted so much.
…he didn't deserve any of the gifts.
The last time he went to the house now as he packed up, he noticed how much he truly messed up everyone's life by just being there.
The photo he smiled at earlier was really just an effort to keep him from being depressed.
All the potion making and laughter was there to make community work bearable.
He couldn't count the amount of times everyone felt pity for him and comforted him because he threw another tantrum.
Ceilings had turned black from all the potion mess up. Fungi simply hissed at his mere disgusting presence. The room he was given was used for something else before.
He took so much and didn't give back.
….They had Copy now.
They could make everyone happy by just existing! That'll be good.
Copy really made him realise how much of a shithead he was to every single damn person around him.
Nabiu? He practically wanted to betray her and yet she viewed him as this sweet, caring brother even if she was burdened with taking care of him.
Wizzro? The amount of time wasted to keep him stable and alright, the amount of money wasted must be unbelievable.
Brocco? Oh, how many times he risked the guard job just because he was a stupid little kid with nothing better to do than steal.
And all his ‘friends’. Lemlo, Lycra, Lily, Tai, and so, so much more.
He just forced them. Was snarky and such a little annoying asshole.
This will be better for everyone.
And this carrot picked out the perfect spot to take his escape too, having made sure that the forest he picked wasn't inhabited by Lily or Tai.
Tai would have probably asked if he was alright, led him back and convinced him he wasn't a fuck up.
He did not know how she didn't absolutely despise him for the many times he called her nicknames or almost accidently broke her Katana.
Or flipped her hat off out of mocking nature.
Same with everyone he met before.
So, what was this place?
Well….it was a giant train station he had once caught a flyer from, called the Stardust Voidpress.
This train station was led by stars, orbs and black holes, made to get to the farthest of places and many islands where no one would find you.
Aka, the perfect spot for him to go to never bother anyone again.
And soon enough, he was seeing the sight he wanted to see!
The huge wall of golden markings and the star that was on top finally showed itself, people already following the path to get to their destination.
Perfect. It was…beautiful too.
Karoto was sorry his disgusting self had to take a step in there.
Every step that was taken closer wasn't for once filled with stares, probably showing these people were from a far away land.
It…felt wrong.
They should hate him.
He weirdly sighed as he approached the entrance, quietly eyeing the sides as well.
Some people were sitting on benches that looked like a half star, looking at their destination and seemingly discussing what they wanted to see.
Some had excited children with them, the laughter filling the air…and some seemed gloomy.
Just like him sometimes.
Poor things. They don't deserve it.
But in the end, Karoto needed to keep going.
So, with quick steps, he entered-
“OY, HOLD IT THERE!”
Let him suffer in peace, you little-
Karoto snapped his gaze over to…seemingly a pink star, wearing a uniform that must belong to the train station.
He noted the details for a moment.
It seemed to be purple on the pants at the sleeves, a red suit otherwise with some yellow cloth hanging out from the white turtleneck thing.
Same was on the end of the sleeves, kinda like his jacket.
He forgot the name. Didn't matter.
There were some lines there stretching from the end of the sleeve…and with the red pants, came golden lines with some sparkles at the end of them.
The shoes were simply golden too, with yellow underneath.
This star wore a purple hat with a red cap as well, the hollowed star on it being shown off as well.
….Hm.
Simple. But interesting.
“If its about my reputation, i can explain-”
“I don't care about your reputation!”
Karoto widened his eyes a bit more at that.
What.
“You…don't-?”
“No-!” The Star grumbled, face palming as he glared at the thief in front of him.
“You aren't wearing any shoes!”
….
Are you fucking kidding me-
“THAT’S your problem?!”
Karoto glared right back, not caring for the line of people right behind him watching this stupid mess of a debate go on.
“You think everyone can come here barefoot? Put on some shoes first!”
“Have you ever seen this Kingdom-? So many don't wear shoes here, you-”
“Does it look like I care? You're not getting in till I see some shoes there!”
Oh, he was gonna blow a fuse again.
…Well, he would have-
If a little orb with soft fairy lights dangling off their hat didn't come up, looking at the star in question.
“What is it, Mister Twinkle?”
“Look, it's just- Urgh…”
The star grumbled to himself, looking at the small orb before pointing right at him as if he was a pest.
Good that he was used to it.
“This carrot isn't wearing any shoes. The rules say that if you don't have shoes, you can't enter the train.”
“Ohhhh…Let me see, Mister Twinkle!”
With a careful look, the Orb came close and inspected Karoto, quietly touching his legs and looking him up and down.
Their touch felt…cold. Almost as if every time they touched, there was a small bit of frost growing on his legs.
Somehow, Karoto expected them to be warm. But Orbs don't seem to act like stars….they weren't balls of flame.
“He can go in.”
“Excuse me?”
The bard never thought he would actually thank a little white ball of cold, but he very much did right now.
“We only don't allow people who bring dirt in. This Carrot is very clean!”
That's so dumb but he didn't care.
The star glared for a few seconds, the stare questioning both intelligence as he murmured to himself.
“Oh my god…Yeah, alright. Get in. But if I ever catch you-”
“Yeah, yeah. Next time I'll wear stupid shoes.”
Karoto grumbled while stepping past the star who had a following look after him, clearly not knowing of some people's preference in clothing.
…Didn't matter.
Didn't matter at all.
He was finally past the giant doors of the Train station…and entered it.
The first thing he noted was the white porcelain he stepped on, surprisingly a rather manageable temperature…perhaps they keep it in check for visitors.
Next was that it was rather full! Well, full if you take the fact that most people were spread out, some sitting on benches waiting for the train to arrive on its silver tracks.
From what he read on the flyer, the stones under the tracks were moon stones.
And he quietly noted the entrance areas little roof had fairy lights glowing as well.
Interesting, but not what he was here for.
What he was here for was the little ticket stand in the wall nearby, being operated by one of the Orbs having the same uniform as every single worker.
He passed so many different species and even some star workers before he reached it, waiting in line so he could get the ticket.
…
The thought of Nabiu came to him again.
Such a sweet child.
He's…gonna miss her. Even if he was incredibly horrible and selfish.
They used to play so many things. She taught him a bit how to use the echo rod, drew with him, and they had adventures.
She even helped him through panic attacks and tantrums when needed, reminding him that she-...
She…
God.
He was truly a self-pitying idiot.
She's gonna be happier with Copy. A true good brother. Someone that can teach her positive things.
The tears that started brimming up in his eyes were quietly wiped away, looking down at the ground to distract himself from the oncoming end.
The end of a life of family.
…It's his fault, really.
He was always dramatic.
“Nexxtttt!”
The small voice of the Orb brought his attention back, quietly going forward and pulling out some coins for the ticket he needed.
Two hands slowly raised themselves onto the counter, looking up very sweetly to the carrot.
“Where are you going, Mister Carrot?”
…Karoto had thought during his walk.
He knew where he was going beside hell.
“Eternal Ydolem.”
“Ahhhh, that one's such a pretty musical place! I recommend going to the giant Organ!”
Karoto did nothing more than faintly nod as the small thing slowly prepared his ticket, eying the many drawers and closets on the wall probably filled with documents.
It was a soft, space coloured room.
Must be nice to work here.
“Mister Carrot?”
Oh.
“You're ticket!”
“Ah, sorry, sorry…”
Karoto quietly took the ticket with his destination on, looking down at it as if it was the most melancholic thing in the world.
….Little thing must have noted the crease in his brow, as it spoke softer than before.
“Hey, it'll be alright, sir. We all miss home sometimes. But you can always return!”
…
What a sad little mention of a thing that didn't know better.
But he silently forced a soft smile on his face, nodding as he turned away.
“Thanks. Have a good day.”
“You too!”
Karoto quietly made his way over somewhere to the middle of the waiting Zone, staring down as he just flowed in his own broken mental state.
….It's just another day.
It'll be just like before when he was all alone, just this time no one was gonna chase after him four times a day.
No more guards.
No more potion making.
No…more Nabiu.
….no more friends.
…
He sniffled ever so silently as he wiped his tears away again.
The thief deserved it.
Everything was deserved from his selfish attitude.
…
Karoto had sat down on the floor after a while, having taken out some snacks that Brocco bought for him once.
He's gonna miss all the baking and cooking they started doing together.
Also Candaline's recipes.
Lemlo's fruits.
But that's just what his punishment was.
….Karoto didn't bring any photos really. It would be ungrateful to hang onto something he manipulated and used.
There was no real reason to take anything that didn't belong to him.
The only things that had been taken were clothing, snacks and whatever the others gifted him.
Sad that this was all he had.
Gifted and bought things from others.
…
Karoto almost dozed off right there, but a sound in the air awoke him.
CHOOOOCHOOOOOOO!
ChuckachuckachuckachuckaCHOOOOCHOOOOOOOO!
Ah.
The beautiful sounds of the train that was coming, slowly going into view as its steam was filled with stardust, cold space air and steam.
It was perhaps a bit absurd, but it was a train made by stars…who was he to complain?
As the train slowly drove to the waiting area and settled in with all its wagons, he took in the details of said train.
The wagons had a pattern that looked like a sunrise, slowly growing into the dark night sky filled with polar lights in purple and green colours.
Of course it was all also painted with white speckles to represent stars.
The wheels were normal, but the special thing about the train is…it had golden metal lines, bending around the train in a pretty fashion.
Both of the long lines were near and on the locomotive, one going over a wagon and bending its way on both sides…and the other hanging onto the locomotive, bending its way over to the wagon behind it and also bending forward.
Truly beautiful….but there's more.
The main driver's room was open for people to see, getting one star and one square window. At the top was a little block with a pretty golden spiral pattern and white speckles.
He quietly noted that the main paint job was brown under all the other colors. The door of the driver had a bit of the northern light pattern though.
Some details he could only see for a bit before the train went past him, for example…
The front of the train had lines on it, representing a star and the little circle in the middle every train usually had.
The shield thing - Nabiu called it a cow catcher once - had some patterns on it. At the top was a black hole-like-ball in purple, under it something like a bent star…and two spikes beside it in yellow. Otherwise brown.
They liked small details, it seemed.
The part where the steam came from was black and had another golden metal line around it….
And the last thing he noted was that at the side of the round thing, was a star like spike.
Despite the slight messy design, he could appreciate the amount of work they must have put into it.
Karoto shook his head as it slowly stopped, the Orbs and stars coming closer to clean it up from all the dirt it had received.
The black holes quietly wrote down if everything worked and the overall guests, slowly informing them of where they were going.
…The Carrot didn't note how sad he was anymore.
He simply waited for the train to get ready and-
“You're too close to the tracks.”
“Oh-?”
Karoto flinched quietly as he looked over, noticing the much taller guy with a ticket for a head, a small orb close by who seemingly spoke quietly.
“My little friend informed me you were too close to the tracks while the train is being worked on.’
“Oh- sorry.”
Karoto did some steps back, noting…that the ticket must be blind.
Not only did he have a stick with him, but the little orb was gently noting things in its own language.
“Mhm, thank you. You're a carrot, Correct? Where are you going?”
…That question made the lump in his throat almost appear again, feeling like something was gonna happen with all the time that has been wasted.
“...Mhm, and Eternal Ydolem. The music spot.”
A quiet noise of approval and a nod came from the small orb, tucking on the giant coat to make sure it stayed right at the conductor.
“Beautiful place…whatever is your reason for leaving? You don't seem excited.”
To be honest.
He wasn't.
This entire thing was his fault, he didn't deserve anything and manipulated his way into people's lives and faked his personality-
STOPPITYINGYOURSELF-
“I wish to not speak of it.”
“Alright.”
…The quiet as the train was cleaned and chatter of everyone's excitement gave a was to White noise, wanting the world to shut up for once.
“Well, it is not my choice. But if you aren't happy to leave, perhaps you should reconsider your choice.”
Right. Like that's gonna fix his mistake.
…But he wasn't gonna argue with a clearly kind person.
“...Right. Thank you.”
With that, the Conductor walked off with their respective orb, hearing soft chirping as the crackles of the doors finally opening was heard.
The doors didn't seem to be appearing before, but not the lines appeared-
And the little boxes moved away, letting stardust stairs appear to get to the wagons in the back.
Those ones had windows and actual ways of sitting after all.
….
Karoto silently breathed.
This is it.
That's how it all ends.
He quietly adjusted his backpack, slowly but surely going after some other people, going on the stairs and-
“KAROTO-!”
…
No.
NONONONONONONOTNOW-
Karoto almost immediately snapped his head over in horror at the blueberry pushing through the people, staring up her-
No.
Stop controlling her opinions.
He barely noticed the stars and orbs stopping for a moment, letting people get in but also waving for a quick stop in their work.
…This seems to be a rare occasion.
Surprising.
Anyway.
“Why are- W-Why are you-”
“I…huff…tried to find you everywhere…We tried…”
We.
“We?”
He unhelpfully copied his mind, barely going down the Stardust stairs as the steam seemed to tighten his lungs all of the sudden.
Wait.
That's him.
“The…others…are o-outside. I talked to Copy and-”
“Of course you did. Their the perfect sibling after all.”
This time it was Nabiu's turn to stare with bafflement in her eyes.
“P-Perfect…Karoto-”
“No, no. I get it now. It's alright.”
Karoto weirdly felt himself calm down for a moment. Nabiu could be reasoned with, especially depending on her happiness.
He could now explain it all and fix what he has done before finally leaving.
….Through the cracks of his vision, he could spot the other colours near the door.
“Copy…is a good person. A really great one. They usually know what they're doing, are kind and give a lot. I get why you like them.
It was so much easier to talk about a better person, the tears only a byproduct of his selfish mind.
It's all he deserved, so it's alright.
“You…y-you deserve a honest person as a friend. A good family member. N-Not a thief.”
The stuttering was horrible. He shouldn't stutter. Thieves who are selfish shouldn't cry.
Stop fucking crying.
“Alright? I-I get it…so please just go.”
…All the carrot got back.
Was a horrified and tearful gaze.
Was he not honest? God, he should have given his guitar up. Maybe his scarf at that point.
She needed something. Anything. Perhaps an apology? Yeah, an apology-
“I-”
THUMP.
….
The warm arms of a small blueberry wrapped around him, the giant head of the M.A.G.E pushing against his neck.
…silent cries are what brought the tears to brim again.
“Why…would you ever think that…?”
Karoto stared into the distance more.
Tears blurred his vision and so did the many colors as they came closer, just the white staying in the back.
….Soon.
More arms wrapped around him.
Yellow and purple-
“I understand h-how you feel…but don't do this.”
Green and white-
“You could have told us.”
One yellow. One green.
“Oh Karoto. This…is not what the situation is.”
“It-...It will be alright, my boy.”
…
It happened againandagainheishurtingpeoplebbecauseHESSELFISH-
“...Karoto.”
That voice.
It made him flinch so heavily it made the others notice and hold a little less tight so he could look.
Copy stared right back at the one they were supposed to reflect in a way.
And they did Oh-so perfectly.
“...I'm…I…”
They hesitated for once.
Usually they talk without stop, but it was now through the silence…that Karoto realized the passengers were watching as well.
So much..drama.
…
…is…this really worth it?
“Look, i-...I'm really sorry-”
They started bit held their breath again, almost as if the knowledge of an apology wasn't just through saying sorry.
Perhaps the others knew too as they backed away for a moment…beside Nabiu, who held onto his arm.
He let her.
It was only fair.
“I…have been talked to by the others and have realised…why I wasn't supposed to be here.”
WAIT, NONONO-
“Wait, no, I didn't mean-”
“No, not like…that.”
Copy quietly reassured, putting a hand on Karoto's shoulder to stop the panic from overflowing.
…Karoto silenced.
He needed to listen.
“We reflections have…been like this for a long time. We are mostly there to bring others attention to us and…make the other person look bad. Even by…”
A quiet gulp.
Was. This just in their nature?
“...Even by pulling everyone's attention on us. I was so happy to see people, but…the nature was meant to replace you.”
Oh.
Oh my god.
“Is this-”
Karoto almost indirectly snapped his head over to Nabiu, who quietly nodded just by pulling out her book.
“We had to take a quick detour for this, but it seems like the reflections rumor became so harsh BECAUSE they started to replace people.”
Another flip of the page as Wizzro joined in, seeming to have knowledge himself.
“So, even with all the kindness and unaware intentions…its in Copy's nature to try and push you away, yet also pull you in to make you guilty.”
Karoto's eyes widened more.
That's.
Oh dear Nantes, that suddenly makes a lot more sense than he wanted to admit.
So that meant with all thr times he was so happy and uncaring, yet so oblivious, that…
“You didn't even know.”
Copy looked away quietly.
It told him enough as they forced themselves to not look too sad for everyone.
“I am…so sorry for the inconvenience. Please do not feel the need to feel guilty. It is completely my fault.”
…Huh.
That took a turn he wasn't expecting. But it did make sense with the constant getting close, the affection, the playing along and opinions-
It was supposed to make him guilty yer make everyone come closer-
But-
“Wait- What if…I was good and you evil? Would that…mean you would make me look bad?”
“Naturally.”
Copy's face said a lot about how clueless they truly had been, but also the guilt flowing through them.
Lycra decided to join in.
“I'm guessing they are actually able to be aware of this because of their long absence of use. The purpose and actual knowledge of what to do had faded.”
The thief quietly stood there as Copy stared.
….
Hm.
That meant he wasn't a terrible person? Perhaps…he….
He didn't quite know what to say now.
“...I'm speechless. Honestly-”
“i-I…don't blame you.”
Lemlo joined in too, quietly staring ahead to Brocco, who was holding onto Wizzro’s shoulder at the pure mess all of this caused.
That left…a single question.
At least for Karoto.
“What do we do now-?”
One couldn't blame them as the train behind them simply stayed, before a quick announcement was made.
“I prefer if we finally started to get going. Are you coming or not?”
….
Karoto quietly looked back, taking off his backpack and looking straight at it after everything that has just happened.
It could still mean he was a bad person. This wouldn't change anything but-
Perhaps.
He genuinely needed a moment to think once their home.
“I'm…staying. Thank you for waiting.”
That's when Karoto caught another thing that made him stare more baffled again.
Sniffling.
“Ohmygod, that was beautifullll-”
“This isn't some random TV drama, you know that-?”
“SHUT UP AND LET ME CRY-”
Fair point, this way unbelievably confusion.
But now, the steam and stardust was finally starting up again, the locomotive finally closing its doors and letting the wheels start spinning for moment.
Quickly, everyone backed away to let it pass, waving to the passengers who laughed, cried and slowly waved back to the group of friends and family.
Slowly, it grew into the distance.
Farther and farther as the smell of cold yet warm stars remained.
….Silence.
The silence was there again as Karoto turned over to Copy.
“...Do you…want to go back?”
It was only the implications, but Copy's posture told him enlugh again that they knew exactly what he was talking about.
Exactly what place.
“I don't think there's any other choice if I don't want to hurt you anymore.”
It sounded so clear now.
The Obliviousness had finally vanished from all the shit that has been happening.
It…was over.
“Let's go.”
For once, everyone nodded as they slowly turned their back, Karoto taking Wizzro's and Nabiu's hand for support.
Brocco said something that for once, he couldn't care less about ad Lycra and Lemlo talked.
Copy went ahead.
Probably more horrified than anyone else.
….
They'll see what's gonna happen now.
- - - - - - -
- - - - - - —----------
—- - -
[LOADING SOMNIUMPLAR] . . .
[Tip: Nabiu has the ability ‘Friendly reminder’ to give friends either an attack boost, a health up…or a chance to get their defense down. Be careful with what you say!]
- - -
– - - - -
-- -
That's where they ended up.
Because now, Karoto noted again that the water stayed white and black, just like how they left it as only the thief and the M.A.G.E entered with the reflection.
Copy wanted to apologize to the two properly.
The backpack he had was left with Wizzro and the others.
Slowly, they stood before the same waterfall where Copy came from again.
“...Karoto. I…apologize again. I don't think I can apologize enough for what I've done, you…are good how you are now.”
Karoto firmly stared at the one who brought him to snap, but couldn't help but feel some sympathy come up.
Didn't have a choice really. It's nature.
….He hoped innerly they can find peace wherever they will go.
“Hey, looking. It's been a rough day om both of us. And while I'm gonna have hard time not indirectly antagonizing you later-”
He joked in a way, but gently placed a hand on their shoulder.
“I hope whatever happens, you'll be better in you're next form.”
Nabiu decided to join in, taking Copy's hand and giving a sweet smile right in return.
“It'll be alright! And hey, if you remember us, we can perhaps play something!”
….Copy stared.
Before tears slowly formed in their eyes again and Karoto finally noticed-
They flowed upward, going up in the sky as a almost laughed sob escaped their throat, hugging the two together as they returned the embrace.
“T-Thank you…so m-much.”
Perhaps it all had a good end after all.
Slowly, Copy won't over to the waterfall, running thwie hand through it as they slowly but surely entered it.
One last time they turned back.
“Karoto?”
“...Yeah?”
….
A soft smile.
“Thank you for my name.”
And with that.
They disappeared back into the waterfall, leaving not a single trace of a person behind as they almost turned into the liquid itself.
Both of Nature's gifts slowly stood there.
The silence was almost comfortable ad the water turned back into its natural colours, blue, green…and whatever other there was.
Karoto didn't care for once.
“We are so having a talk about you're self worth back home.”
Ah shit.
Almost immediately, a nervous chuckle left his throat as he looked away, trying not to look at the blueberry giving him THAT look.
“Oh, THAT, hah….yeah…we…will have, huh-?”
Two blinks, but one decision in words have been made.
“...I love you. Seriously, brother.”
He barely flinched at that, but the tears welled up just the same as her arms opened up.
….a smile slowly came to his cheeks, kneeling down and letting the embrace happen.
Perhaps.
“...Love you too, sis.”
It was all gonna be alright in the end.
Because one is loved for who they are.
Not who could be better.
Because sometimes, the best version is you.
With all the flaws one has.