Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Welcome to double life! A series like so many others, but with a twist! You will all be getting a soulmate and your damage and health will be shared. Do not forget to seal the deal with a kiss when you have found your true love! Good luck!”

Grian smiled looking at the people standing in the circle, he eyed everyone who stood there closely, the usual line up of people all who had participated in last life. There was a new face, a ginger girl who stood to the side. She seemed shy and her deer hybrid appearance only gave into the more timid appearance. He smiled, his wings spread wide as he eyed her. Next to him stood Mumbo, they have been together for a few months and honestly he had never seen the shy man happier. He was happy with Mumbo, their relationship had been perfect. There had been episodes of quarrels and even small breaks, but they always came back. None of them were too serious and even with Grain's proud nature, he was easy to melt at Mumbo's sincere apology. Mambo always apologised first, no matter who was at fault. He could not handle people being upset with him for long. He had severe separation anxiety, due to the fact he had been left and abandoned multiple times in his life. Grian smiled at Mumbo the man nervously stood there as Grian pulled him into a hug, he smiled shyly as they both walked off.

Mumbo watched as everyone ran off, he wanted to talk to Joel, but as Grian ran off he followed him. The tall man could barely keep up with the avian soaring through the sky. Luckily Mumbo could walk quickly. Once they reached a tree Grian began chopping it down, while Mumbo grabbed the tree next to him. Grian was in deep thought. The tall man decided to break the silence.

“I hope we are soulmates, I mean I know it is not a certainty. However, gosh we are together so wouldn’t that be neat?”

Grian looked up from his crafting bench and smiled at Mumbo. He was really grinning and made Mumbo's heart warm. Mumbo had an earring with one of Grian's feathers and Grian loved to mess with it lightly. Grian walked up to him pulling him by the tie into a kiss. Mumbo's face flushed as he returned the kiss, when Grian pulled back Mumbo hoped it would last longer. Grian soared up into the air and not for the first time Mumbo wished he could follow. A few seconds after Grian disappeared a green glowing text appeared before his eyes.

“Your soulmate is”

He held his breath, his eyes pinned to the green text, every single nerve in his body tense. He prayed “Grian Grian Grian”. He was sweating with how tense he was on such a hot summer day. However, that could be due to his warm suit.

“???”

“Dangit.”
He paused sitting on the ground. He was still holding wooden tools so he decided to catch up. Some people already got Iron. He dug under ground and collected the stone tools picking up Grian's crafting bench. The man never used the same crafting bench, it was truly infuriating. Mumbo sighed he wasn’t the one to be upset at his boyfriend, but he was at the fact Grian flew away. He suddenly felt a sharp pain in his legs, he yelped falling to his knees. His soulmate just fell, gosh this was unbearable. Mumbo got up and winced, well he could walk so that is something. He decided to look for people, I mean one of these fellas could tell him where Grian is. Mumbo did not want another soulmate aside from his boyfriend. Although he would not be against being with Scott. The man was very friendly and generally pleasant to be around. Mumbo immediately brushed off the thought. In the distance he saw two people, squinting under the sun he realised it was Joel and Lizzie. He smiled walking towards them. The ogre looked down while the Fairy was on the verge of tears as they walked up towards Mumbo.

“I am guessing you two are not soulmates?”

He questioned a frown on his face. He loved the married couple, they had been very friendly to him. Although Joel's blood thirst in Last life still left a pang of fear in Mumbo's chest. He moved to Lizzie's side, terrified of the ogre Hybrid.

“No. The bloody system wants us to suffer.”

Joel seemed more down than before, well it was what it was. Perhaps they could be with their friends. Mumbo gave them a small smile. In a split moment Joel punched him, Mambo grunted falling to the ground wincing. He looked up at Joel terrified and even more cautious. Neither Lizzie nor Joel expressed any pain. Not his soulmates, he tried to stifle the sigh of relief that escaped his lips.

“Sorry lad, I just wanted to know. I didn't hit you too hard did you?

Mambo shook his head giving him a weak smile and a thumbs up. He watched the two walk away and then collapsed on the ground, his eyes closing for a split second before he heard someone walk over. He did not move, not like he was still in pain, but the ground was so nice under the light sun.

“Are you alright? You look half dead dude.”

Skizz stood over him a queer expression on the angel's face. Mumbo nodded, getting up and brushing off the dirt on his suit. It is funny how quickly grass and dirt stuck to suits. He fixed his tie which was still a mess after Grian.. Well not important. Mumbo's face flushed at the memory and he tried to cough it off. Smiling at Skizz.

“Hey yeah. Joel just decided to fully punch me in the gut. I mean I believe I should have expected that from him”

Skizz grinned ear to ear patting Mumbo with his wing. Joel was a fun fella, but could really underestimate his own strength. I mean the ogre in him wasn’t that obvious if you do not count the antenna. Skizz laughed out loud and Mumbo gave a weak smile, he did not find it funny in the slightest. However, he did find Skizze's laugh to be infectious as he burst out laughing a moment later covering his mouth.

“Sorry dude, I just had this image in my mind. Joel is tiny and you are well a skyscraper compared to him”

Mumbo nodded as he looked down at the buff man. The sleeves of his suit had been freshly ripped off showing off his muscles and tanned skin. Mumbo tried not to keep his gaze on there as he looked at Skizze's nose. He knew now that direct eye contact was a no go. Skizz coughed nervously.

“So do you want to or should I?”

Mumbo paused and then the realization hit him. He didn't want to be flattened on the ground by Skizze's muscles. He gently slapped the man and stepped away. He did not feel any pain. Gosh another one down. His hope for his soulmate being Grian rose with every person he met. He looked at Skizz who smiled back. Neither of them being too worried about being not paired up. I mean the two of them would be out quicker than Jimmy and his pair. He smiled at the thought. The two of them parted ways as Mumbo left to look for Grian.

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Gem had been new to these games, so when she appeared, there had been many whispers all around her that she decided to ignore. She knew some faces from Hermitcraft, but decided it would be better to stay alone, at least for the time being. Especially after Grian's look. She shivered under that look, it was so unlike Grian, an almost predatory, amused look. He looked at her as if he had been a hungry wolf scanning his prey.

She headed out to grab her materials and was one of the first to fully get stone tools and the beginning iron. She smiled, making the iron pickaxe and axe. Well now people will not see her as a meek dear, she was never a meek dear in the first place. A wolf in sheep clothing, well deer clothing. She chuckled at the thought as she set off killing some animals for food. Words appeared before her eyes as she stumbled backwards startled and confused.

“Your soulmate is…”

She sighed it had just been the choosing process. Gem hated that her first thought had been of Pearl. The beautiful avian, Grian’s twin. She huffed as she swiped those memories away clutching her axe. The words mixed up and the message changed.

“???”
She rolled her eyes not being surprised, this is the kind of thing she expected from Grian. Although the man said he did not control these games, she had trouble believing the mischievous grin. She was happy he settled down well with his new boyfriend, she was truly surprised that Grian got together with a human. One of the only humans in Hermitcraft, it had been a struggle for the tall man to get accepted, Xisuma said he would get in and nobody argued with the admin. Although there had been hostilities Mumbo quickly became a valuable asset, although his building skills were lacklustre at best. She walked through the forest wondering where everyone had gone. She did not see the cliff before her feet stumbling forward. She groaned as she fell down, great her hooves could have cracked gosh. She felt bad for her soulmate and hoped that they had a good pain tolerance, so she sighed and ate a piece of cooked mutton. Down below she noticed water, she jumped down this time not getting hurt. She swam around getting fish and began cooking them. The water felt nice, it was a very hot summer day and a quick dip never hurt anyone. A sharp pain in her face caused her to wince and loose her swimming rhythm. She did not yell, but groaned distastefully. Great… Her soulmate was someone who got into fights, this is ridiculous. She healed up with some cooked fish cursing under her breath. On the opposite side of the hill she saw Grian, interestingly alone. She decided to approach him collecting her belongings, and she crept up punching the hybrid. To her relief they were not soulmates.

“OUCH! What was that for?!”

The avian shrieked, flying up into the air. Gem rolled her eyes that didn't hurt. Men were so sensitive. She shrugged resting her axe on her shoulder, a wicked gleam in her eyes as she studied the avian.

“Be happy it wasn’t with my axe. I wanted to see if I had the terrible fate of being your soulmate. Luckily I am safe. Where’s Mumbo? You two are inseparable, what gives?”

Grain flew to the ground folding his wings behind his back. He wasn’t impressed with Gems' method, so he immediately opened his mouth to complain. Gem rolled her eyes.

“Great another psycho on this server, as if we need more. Mumbo and I separated at the start. I wanted to grab some goat horns. Want one?”

Gem nodded although less eagerly, she did not know how she felt about the horns of goats being ripped off and used as a music instrument, then Grian dropped her one, labeled Seek. She tried it out and it sounded great, a few horns echoed in the distance, Grian grimaced.

“I cannot believe you like that sound. It is the worst one. It sounds worse than nails on a chalkboard.”

There was an awkward silence in which Gem raised an eyebrow. Grian figured that she was not going to chat with him, said a hurried goodbye and flew away leaving Gem alone. She was relieved to be left to her own devices. On her way she passed Etho with Joel and she punched Etho immediately. Etho and Joel both jumped and yelled at the same time. Then their faces turn to each other. They must have just realised they were soulmates. Gem smirked, watching Ethos' flushed face. She wiggled her eyebrows at both of them getting angry British talk from Joel. She smiled seeing Etho's tail wag as he looked into Joel's direction admiring the man.

“You two are such dorks, happy soulmate find!”

As Joel continued to argue she flipped him off and before he could retaliate disappeared into the forest, suddenly a death message caught her eyes. With a quiet gasp she saw that both Tango and Jimmy had died. The first yellows. Immediately after that a snide remark followed.

“Wonder who’s bonded?”

Grian was as annoying as ever even without making direct eye contact into his soulless void of eyes. She shivered at the thought and continued to walk. She paid it little attention as she set off to find her soulbound, after a few moments she stopped. Her arms were burning, she yelped, the pain was only getting worse. She tried to eat as she was shaking on the ground, as if she had been burnt alive. She felt tears well up in her eyes as she curled up into a ball on the ground trying to stop the pain getting to her head, she ate some fish. She did not notice that she began sobbing. She swore at her soulmate for going to the nether and doing this to her. She did not have much time to wonder, as her pain suddenly disappeared leaving her wondering if she imagined it as her skin had no damage aside from a slight smoking effect.

She passed some people, but to her dismay or perhaps a little happiness they were all taken. Bdubs and Impulse began building a cute base and she hung around, wanting to chat to her dad for a while. The demon seemed very busy, but he did spare her a couple of minutes to ruffle her hair. She groaned, swiping at him. Impulse grinned clearly, being very proud of himself. She approached Bdubs.

“If you break my dads heart, I will break every bone in your body.”

She stepped back beaming, as she saw Bdudbs shiver. Mission accomplished, scare her dad's soulmate. I mean now Bdudbs would behave for sure. She smirked at the glare hybrid who immediately covered himself in moss further. As a warning she wanted to punch him, but recalled that this would hurt her dad. She said her goodbyes and headed off, it did not take her long to find her other parent. She found him in a clearing with Lizzie, she ran up to him jumping on the angel hybrid.

“Woah there Gemstone! Do not give your pops a heart attack. You little rascal!”

She smirked as he covered her with his wings, her pa was in a cheerful mood, she smiled and stood up walking over to Lizzie. The fairy hybrid did not seem too annoyed by this. Gem assumed nobody would, her pa was the life of the party even in his prehistoric age. Gem and Lizzie started a conversation leaving Skizz standing there awkwardly before he heaved Gem onto his shoulders. She whined and giggled, but did not have anything against it as Skizz flew around the server with her on his back.

Another death message, Etho and Joel were down. She groaned and here she thought those two had been good at the game, unbearable really. She sighed loudly exhaling. The wind rustled through her ears as her pa flew higher and higher.

“Boys..”

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Mumbo had been wandering for a while and he still hadn’t seen anyone, he had begun wondering if everyone was just avoiding him. They all saw him as a human, so the non hermitcrafters could have thought he had been a danger. Suddenly the death message popped up, his eyes widened. Tango got blown up by a creeper, gosh the nether hybrid was so bad in the overworld. It had been so entertaining to watch him defeat a skeleton for the first time. Mumbo assumed he had gotten better, but had been clearly mistaken. Jimmy, who had been bound to Tango reapered next to him and soon Tango followed. Tango immediately began apologising, his eyes running nervously, Mumbo knew that sign, Tango needed comfort immediately.

“I need to get my stuff”

Jim said awkwardly as he waved goodbye to Mumbo and Tango and walked away. The avian didn't fly, Mumbo should ask him about that later. Perhaps Grian once he met him. This was not important now of all times. Mumbo knelt down in front of Tango who had fallen to the ground, he saw the sparks fly from the man's hair. Not caring in the slightest he pulled Tango into a hug, he counted out loud as he knew Tango often forgot the breathing rhythm. Tango was shaking as he tried to follow it and failed the first couple of times, his tail wrapped around Mumbo, he trusted the human after a while of observing from afar. He knew that Mumbo was secretly a spoon and would have no chance against him. He sniffed loudly.

“I messed up… I k..killed him. I should be.. They should throw me back.. I..”

Mumbo did not say anything, just held the man closer, even when the sparks on his hair turned into flames he did not let go. He knew Tango needed someone, he knew if he left, Tango would hurt himself. The hybrid never learned proper emotional regulation, he had Zedaph who helped him, but Zed wasn’t here. Jimmy did not know any of this, nobody did. Nobody but Mumbo, Zedaph and Skizzpulse. Mumbo felt his hands begin to burn, he did not pull away as the fire licked at his skin. Tango was trying to push him away, by hurting him. Mumbo thought quickly, better Tango hurt him than himself. He could handle it and then heal it will be alright. He grit his teeth as his eyes closed, he hoped his soulmate did not mind that much. Tango's tears stopped as he pulled back. He looked so worried.

“MUMBO! Oh dude! Did I hurt you?! Sorry I wasn't thinking, you’re human you can’t handle the… I did not burn you?”

As he examined Mumbo's arms and hands, his hands smoked slightly as his arms remained perfectly unharmed aside from the burnt suit jacket which Mumbo took off and wrapped it around his waist. He smiled looking at the blaze hybrid happy he came to his senses.

“I am fine! No worries, I had been horrified seeing you, I did not want you to hurt yourself, you do not deserve pain. Remember you can always find me, I have time for you any day and any hour. Just do not.. Do not hurt yourself, do we have a deal?”

Tango looked at him nervously, before shaking his hand and smiling. He whispered a thank you, but did not have time to say anything else as Jimmy returned. The two began chatting loudly as they headed off. Mumbo smiled, he hoped Jimmy was alright, but by the fact he was not mad at Tango, he was sure they would be fine. He sighed, getting up from the ground. He had a soulmate to find. He had not seen Grian all day, this was becoming increasingly more annoying, he had been everywhere, was Grian avoiding him? He brushed the thought away as he continued walking.

He had found Imp and Bdubs working on a farm; he greeted both of them and thanked them for offering him food. If his soulmate did not eat, he would have long starved them to death. Mumbo often forgot to eat and it never bothered him, but now someone else's life was on the line. He took the steak and consumed it quite quickly to the utter shock of the two.

“Wow I did not know humans could do that, you are quick dude.”

He felt Impulse pat him on the back with such strength it knocked the wind out of him, he smiled weakly once more. At this point he would die before he met his soulmate. Everyone was so friendly they wanted him dead. They chatted as Impulse explained a new invention and Mumbo quickly added some information and a few solution to the issues that arose. Budbs watched them bored before he loudly intervened.

“Before Mumbo steals my soulmate, Impulse we have a base to build, stop flirting!”

Impulse and Mumbo blushed out of embarrassment and quickly said their goodbyes as Mumbo basically ran out of there. He came to a clearing, in the distance and he saw familiar wings. He smiled as he ran up the hill to see Grian. Grian was following another player, oh Scar. He wondered why as he approached his boyfriend.

“I missed you, where have you been? I was looking for you, maybe we’re-”

“I’ve been busy. I do not have to tell you everything”

“Oh gosh of course not, I just-”

“We are not soulmates, sorry Mumbo”

Those words stung, he did not dare hit Grian, but out of the corner he saw Scar fall off a tree and Grian groaning. Oh those two had been soulmates. Mumbo pretended it did not bother him as he hugged his boyfriend. He felt it had been extremely one sided compared to the warm hugs he got from Grian on Hermitcraft. As Scar ran over Mumbo felt a pang of jealousy, but hid it under a polite smile.

“Mumbo!! Have you found your soulmate? Grian and I are still looking for ours, I said it was you, but he disagrees. I mean you two are sure something!”

Scar winks, and Mumbo blushes looking at the grass intently trying to ignore the tears prickling in his eyes. Scar was such a charmer, long before Mumbo and Grian were official, Scar managed to get them into a threesome multiple times. Scar had a very wild love life never settling. He claimed he never found the "right one".

“Uhm No Scar he is right, we tested it! He is not. I am still looking for mine, so I will get going! Good luck on your adventure!”

Mumbo lied not wanting to tell Scar it had been Grian. The words would not come out of his mouth. He was about to turn around and leave when he saw a cute blue creature flying to scar nuzzling his neck. The tall man let out a gasp.

“Is that an allay? I thought those were off-server, no way there is a villager outpost so close. Worse, you actually raided it, you are an insane man!”

Scar chuckled letting Mumbo pet the allay who was nuzzled in the Vex-Cats hands. He noticed the limp in Scars step and had an idea. Sure he did not want Scar to have Grian and be all alone with him, but he did not want the man to have an unfair disadvantage. He easily broke off a part of a tree to Scars and Grians amazement and began carving at it with his axe and pocket knife. He produced a hand made walking stick, nothing too fancy.

“Come back to me in a bit, I will make you something better, this was just the first thing that came to mind, if you want you can get a piece of leather so it does not give you splinters. I am not sure if we can polish it here.”

Scars eyes lit up as he took the cane easily and quickly walked around with it. Scar with the cane seemed to be a whole different person. He was fast and walked with a bounce. Mumbo wished he could help with Scars damaged Vex wings, but he couldn't do anything without his machines, especially with something so delicate. Scar Jumped at him enveloping him in a hug.

“Thank you Thank you Thank you!”

Mumbo smiled, returning the hug. Grian stood to the side clearly wondering something. The avian was clearly so lost in thought he did not notice Scar's return as the man demanded something from him. Mumbo decided to leave before he got pulled into some stupid quarrel. Both men had a knack for making issues out of nothing. "A mountain out of a hill" as the saying goes. Grian was impulsive and Scar was one who loved arguments. To him the sun would be green for all he cared, as long as it annoyed someone.

As the man walked he could not stop thinking about Grian, the cold look he was given. The way Grian cut him off. Grian had never expressed such hostility before. Mumbo began wondering if he had done something wrong as he met Joel and Etho who had been working on something with boats. He approached them as he saw the creeper behind Etho, he jumped in taking the blow with his shield.

“Thank you Mumbo, this could have ended very badly, I was too focused on the-”

Before Etho could continue he fell to the ground choking. Mumbo looked at him with fear in his eyes, trying to find Joel. Joel was held in the air by an enderman. The purple eyes looking deep into the ogre hybrids, the veiny hand around his neck. Mumbo wished he could do anything. He tried to place water, but he was not quick enough. Joel was slain by an enderman and Etho was taken with him. The second death and he could have prevented it. He sighed as he looked at the stuff on the ground, he picked it up and placed it in the respective chests labeling them and heading off. He was in a sour mood as he checked the roster. The only people he had not met were Ren, Bigb, Martyn, Pearl, Scott, Cleo, Skizz, Gem and Lizzie. He decided to go look for Ren, the man knew Martyn and Pearl went to the nether so he assumed those two had been bound. He picked up some wild berries along the way, not the best source of food but it would do, he managed to trap a couple of cows, shoving them into a hole and marking the area. He had a hunch he would forget, but decided not to dwell on it. He met up with Ren as he stood on the cliff, the dog man immediately pulled Mumbo into a hug. Everyone was so welcoming, that his bones were cracking.

“Hello to you too Ren, weird ask, but do you know who your soulmate is?”

Ren's tail was wagging as he nodded and let go of the man placing him on the ground. The glasses were on his eyes as always. Mumbo remembered Ren's weakness to the sun, he always agreed. He disliked the Sun, he has his own Sun, had..? He did not want to think about it anymore. It would only bring him pain, which he had plenty of.

“Yes! Bigb and I are soulmates! I can help you a bit. I think Cleo and Scott, Imp and bdubs, and Skizz and Lizzie. You know about the ones who died. So I think you are left with: Pearl, Gem, Grian, Scar and Martyn!”

Mumbo nodded, he did not care who it had been, he just wanted this session over so he could lock himself up in his redstone world. He was safe there among the machines. He wished he could be one of them, maybe then he would not feel like this. Like a total waste of space. He hated it, it made him violently sick as he turned away from Ren throwing up.

“Woah! Mumbo you good?”

Mumbo gave him a thumbs up before throwing up once more. He saw the message in chat, a meeting for everyone who had not found their soulmate. Well this will be great, if he could just stop being sick.

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After a quick flight Gem observed a menagerie of people on top of the pillager outpost, this will be a mess. The boys were really getting on her nerves; they were worse than in Hermitcraft, and this had been a death game. After a quick goodbye she headed off to the distance. She wanted to get this over with, Pearl and Martyn had been in the nether so she knew that could explain the fire damage she received, what it did not explain was how there had been no burn scars. She huffed, annoyed by this predicament, her trot turned into a gallop as the faun like deer began to wonder if she would be alone forever, she ran into Scott and Cleo building their bases opposite each other.

“Hey are you two soulmates?”

Cleo yelled something from across the bridge, but Gem did not hear her. Scott ducked out of the cute little house.

“Nope, we gave up on finding our soulmates, unless.. Gem punch me!”

Gem gladly did so and when nothing happened she groaned quietly, as soon as Cleo approached Gem punched her. Cleo immediately turned around her Zombie eyes full of anger. She growled full volume, turning to Gem, who was not scared.

“I was checking if we are soulmates and I am very wrong, so you two are either with Mumbo or the ones in the nether. I think my soulmate is in the nether, I was burnt earlier, it was excruciating.”

Gem shivered reliving this moment, her mind reeled and she needed to sit down, Cleo quickly caught her slightly cooled off. Gem groaned looking up at them, her vision blurry.

“Sorry I feel so sick, I went for a flight with pa and I think I did not fully adjust to the ground. Perhaps the fact I galloped here did not help. I think that really worn me out”

She sat on the ground as both of them looked worried, Scott disappeared into his cottage, while Cleo sat next to her. Cleo was very good at comfort, but with Gem feeling not the best, she wasn't sure it would help.

“I sure hope I am not soulmates with Mumbo. I mean how awkward would it be?! He is like a son to me.”

Gem did not even think that could be a possibility. She shivered at the thought of having to share a soulmate kiss with her parents, she would rather perish immediately. She loved her dads dearly, but she would never kiss them. She must have made a face as Cleo burst out laughing.

“Yeah I think you would hate the same, I am just happy that Pearl and Grian are not together. The twins get so unhinged it is truly terrifying to watch.”

Scott had returned with 3 cups and a tea kettle, he poured everyone tea. Fruit tea, Gems favourite. She thanked him sipping on the tea as Scott and Cleo drank. Scott spoke up, not really looking away from his cup.

“I do not think I want to find my soulmate, I mean they did not go to find me so I do not really care.”

Cleo nodded in agreement. Gem knew something happened in last life, but Cleo would never tell her, although Gem knew Scott was told. She tried to distract from the dark atmosphere building around them.

“I would want to have a soulmate, I mean I was hoping it was you or Lizzie, but Pearl is still an option.”

Cleo slapped her forehead as the realisation hit her as she chuckled loudly. Gem was slightly taken back by the sudden movement clutching her cup tightly.

“OH right! You are a lesbian! I forgot about that part.”

Gem blushed looking aggressively at her cup of tea as Scott gave her a reassuring smile. She did not know if that was a bad thing, but by the way Cleo smiled she was sure it wasn’t.

“Yeah, women are hot, you do not have to make that face Scott”

She laughed seeing how Scott's face contorted in disgust. She knew he was being a goof, he was always very polite and did not care who he teamed up with. She met him in the Empire realm, but she barely remembered anything from there, she did remember Scott. She suddenly felt very sick, she turned away from them and threw up, gosh what the hell. She was feeling fine, no that means her soulmate. Ugh she was about to say something, but threw up again. Scott and Cleo exchanged worried glances. Gem looked confused as she saw the vomit was a bright red colour. She decided not to question it as the third wave came. She groaned, wiping the rest off her mouth.

“My soulmate must have eaten some berries, and a lot by the looks of it. I cannot with this person! Remind me to punch him to death when I meet him ugh. I am so sick”

She saw something pop up and chat as Cleo's face hardened and she turned to Gem. Scott stood up, his elf ears lowered and the ground around him freezing, Gem scrambled away knowing her hooves do not handle ice.

“Our soulmates seem to finally want to meet. This will be interesting. You can go ahead Gem, we need to do something before. It will not take long.”

Scott spoke, his tone icy just like the floor under him, she nodded getting to her feet. She did not particularly want to stay here, she ran fast like the wind. Her ears flying through wagging in the gusts of wind, the gravel under her hooves got replaced by grass as she practically flew through the forest. She saw a couple of berries, but did not touch them, still sick from the thought. She arrived at the designated spot, she had clearly been first even before the people who invited them. She began stretching her legs, the sitting position had not been ideal.

A while later Mumbo walked into the clearing, he seemed to be lost in his thoughts not noticing Gem. She smirked, deciding to scare him, she approached the man and punched him for shits and giggles. Suddenly she felt her back hurt. The same exact spot where she hit Mumbo. Mumbo whirled around faster than normal, his eyes flashed red. They were back to normal as quick as light, Gem was sure she imagined it and shrugged it off.

“I think we should wait for-”

Gem pinched her arm and Mumbo winced the same pain in his hand. He grunted looking up, the realization hit him. He did not say a word as the others came in. Martyn began his speech about the soulmate situation, Gem kept glancing over to Mumbo who was unresponsive. They all filed into the cabins, then Scott got hurt and Pearl did the same. Gem's heart contracted, she felt that her breath left her and she could not get air. When Mumbo began coughing falling to the ground she realised she was holding her breath and ran towards him.

“Well I guess that works..”

Martyn shrugged as he began walking towards Cleo. Mumbo got up apologising to Gem and stood to the side as Gem joined him. Scott suddenly tapped his leg on the ground, the ice made Martyn slide back, then the ice vanished sliding back into the elves shoe. Scott scoffed, Cleo spoke up raw fury in her voice.

“My soulmate is Scott, we don' need you.”

Scott nodded his head approvingly. His eyes became a very light crystal colour, the ground began to frost as snow fell from the sky causing Pear to be forced to cover herself with her wings. She looked so devastated with her blue hoodie and cute owl feathers. Gem wanted to run over, but the ice would make her slip and then what good would she be. She did not take her eyes off Pearl the entire conversation. Martyn tried to protest.

“But we found each other? This is the system.”

Martyn tried to grab Cleo's hand and she punched him to the ground, she must have been on a high adrenaline to care, she hit him again and again, until blood spilled from both their noses. She stepped away, her whole body tense and shaking.

“I wanted you to want me. To seek me out. To care enough to be here, and you were too busy running around with Pearl. Scott is my true soulmate.”

Scott butt in immediately his voice threateningly sweet as he looked at the two on the ice. He saw Cleo being on the verge of tears and did not want them to see that they got to cleo. They did not deserve that.

“We don't need you… byeee”

The two turned away the ice and snow disappearing as they walked off chatting between each other. Gem watched Pearl fall to her knees as Martyn stormed off to the approximate direction of Rens base. Mumbo stood still for a moment then turned around and walked off. Gem followed him, he did not talk until they came to the cows he hid.

“We can build our base here. It is not far away from everyone and near the world border and on a cute hill. I am not the best at building so what do you need?”

Gem was slightly dazed, but quickly told him all the materials as Mumbo disappeared. Gem thought about Pearl sitting on the ground, her axe slid away due to the ice. She looked like a wounded puppy. So alone, so hurt. She snapped out of it by Mumbos return, with his help they could build a small starter base with two rooms and a kitchen. There would be a meeting held shortly, of all the soulbound. Gem saw how down Mumbo had been and for a moment forgot Pearl. She realised how Mumbo must have felt, not being bonded to his actual boyfriend, that must truly sting. She smirked and tapped him on the chest light enough to not hurt, but obvious enough for him to notice and give her a puzzled look.

“Tag you’re it!’

Mumbo smirked as she bolted out the door he immediately followed as he laughed and yelled.

“You cheater!”

She laughed as she ran Mumbo's human legs were no match for Gems strong deer legs, she ran ahead so far she could barely hear his footsteps anymore. She laughed, running always distracted her from everything and this had been no different. The wind rustled through her hair as her braids came undone, she wasn't surprised it had been only a matter of time.

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When Mumbo finally caught up to Gem she was smirking at him, clearly very smug, he smiled seeing her and then approached. He began panting and groaning as he reeled back to normal a moment later, chuckling a little as he watched the little deer stare him down with a very pleased expression.

“You are such a cheater! Woooh that was an exercise."

“You are just slow!”

Gem immediately retorted, sticking her tongue out at him. He rolled his eyes and led her to a chair. There were two chairs left and some people were missing so he let Gem have the chair standing behind her. He did not mind standing, and he did not want to sit. When he watched the soulbound, he saw that Tango and Jim had their kiss as Jim's wings had a fiery hint as well as a few orange streaks in his hair. Tango had freckles and his hair was mostly blonde. His tail as well. He wore two clips on his ears of Jimmy's feathers. Mumbo instinctively reached for his own, the feather was still there. He pushed the thoughts away and realised they were still not here. Pearl and Martyn had been missing as well, but he did not expect them to come to this.

Suddenly everyone turned as giggles and chatter came from behind the hill. Mumbo's heart fell immediately upon seeing them. They had their soulbound kiss. Grian was carrying whiskers and his wings white with a hint of Blue. Scars Vex wings had a parrot shading and he had cute little parrot wing ears. Mumbo's heart fell as they walked by him, Scar still with the cane he made him, although now polished with a leather handle. Grian stood back as Scar turned to Mumbo.

“Thank you for the cane Mumbo! I do not know what I would do without it in the outpost.”

Grian giggled and Mumbo felt violently sick again. He smiled weakly and nodded, that seemed to satisfy Scar as he walked to the empty chair sitting down, Grian jumped onto his lap, his legs hanging off the side of the chair. The Hermitcraft people looked slightly uncomfortable, but Scar was like this with everyone on the server. They let it go quickly erupting into chatter around the table, the two yellow groups seemed really into some kind of wrestling game. Gem squeezed Mumbo's hand, and he tried to smile at her, but felt so sick. Ren and Scott engaged in conversation probably about something royal, Mumbo could not focus on any sound.

“...and this is how I defeated 100 Zombies all on my own.”

Gem began clapping as Mumbo tried to understand the conversation, but gave up and just clapped along, he was not paying attention damnit. Someone would notice, but nobody did. He had breathed a sigh of relief.

While everyone talked a flash of red appeared out of the corner of his eyes. He immediately went protective mode, his hands stiffening with no suit to hide their sudden change, his shirt a flimsy protection for the intruder. There was a bang of red and as everyone coughed on the table sat Pearl. She had a red hood on and her eyes full of insanity, the usual colour replaced by a bright red one. Mumbo shivered at the way she sat, cross legged, with her axe in her hands like a toy. There had been wolf cries in the background. The whispers around the tables became hushed and nervous. The people looked at Pearl with a scared glance. Gem had a flushed face and Mumbo realised that she had been staring. He leaned in whispering.

“So hot evil lesbians hm?”

He chuckled as Gem flushed and covered her face with her hair. He looked around the table. Scott looked at Pearl with animosity and Cleo had a similar expression. The two clearly not amused by Pearls antics. Pearl seemed to see the same thing as she walked along the table crouching near Scott, her hand reaching to cup Scott's chin.

“Not happy to see me Pixxie boy?”

Scott did not pull away and instead Pearl's hand began to turn cold, Scott shivered his own hand getting the frozen doze, he tried to hold it up, but stopped. He did not need frostbite no matter how high his ice tolerance was, it was lowered due to the soulmate curse. Pearl smirked as she had won this battle. Gem was breathing heavily, her eyes jumping at Pearl occasionally. Pearl did not seem to notice her, as her full attention focused on Scott whose breath had been hitched and irregular. She pulled away her eyes going wild, even more than before the encounter, as her smile widened.

“What is the little ice pixie afraid of some frost?”

She cooed mocking the man as her foot gently kicked Scott who let out a quiet wince of pain. As before she appeared the howling of the wolves was followed by a red smoke and Pearl had vanished. As if she had never been there in the first place. Bdubs huffed quietly looking up from the table. He was clearly uncomfortable in the night and the torches did not help.

“She is the Scarlet Witch. Can we all go to bed? It is so dark!”

Bdubs complained, but this time people actually agreed as they dispersed. As Mumbo was walking past Grian and Scar he saw them kiss again Scar clearly leading charge with no protests from Grian. Mumbo felt tears well up in his eyes, his breath hitched and he ran. He did not care, he just felt sobs escape him. He heard Gem call out for him, but he was too far away. He was even more done with everything and wanted to roll up and die.

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Gem arrived at their base, although she had been immensely flustered by the way Pearl looked. That tight fitting turtle neck under her red cape. GEM stay on track, Mumbo is hurt!! She walked to Mumbo's room and knocked.

“Hey Mumbo… are you okay?”

She heard muffled sobs and then the sound of the sewing machine. Mumbo was stress sewing, he had been a whizz at that, ever since he touched the sewing machine. She was worried he would hurt himself so she knocked again.

“Mumbo at least say something! Or I will break down the door!”

She threatened, she would follow through, the sewing machine stopped. There was movement on the other side. She heard Mumbo's voice, but it sounded wounded. His voice a bit above a whisper, he was breathing heavily, probably trying to not break into sobs.

“Go away Gem.”

She took it as her sign and left the base going outside to get some fresh air. The weather had been chilly at night so she put on her yellow jumper, over her overalls. As she walked down the road she had not realised that she was heading towards Pearl's tower, but her gut told her to continue. As soon as she reached the beginning of the tower Pearl had been building she saw a figure on the floor. She ran up immediately. It was Pearl, she had been laying in powdered snow. Her body was cold as ice and she was unconscious.

“Pearl oh my!”

She grabbed Pearl and pulled her into the tower, trying to shield her from the wind behind the winding staircase. She pulled off the avians cape, that had been soaking wet. She was so cold Gem cursed under her breath. She pulled off her own jumper putting it on Pearl trying to make her warm up. She muttered, thinking the worst, when Pearl's weak, trembling voice reached her ears.

“G..gem..? it…s.c..co..ld”

Gem sighed as she embraced the other woman. Pearl began sobbing quietly into Gems chest, as the deer held her tightly whispering sweet nothings into her ears before she fell asleep. Gem sighed, she might as well stay till dawn. Pearl needed someone right now and that someone would be Gem. She had not noticed that she drifted off to sleep herself cuddling with the avian. Deep down she knew Mumbo did not care.

Chapter Text

When Gem awoke from her slumber, she had realised two crucial things. Number 1 was that she was in pain, not like it had been unbearable, it just caught her off guard. Number 2 was that there was no Pearl. She swore under her breath and slowly stood up immediately hitting her antlers on something. Oh right she fell asleep under the stairs. She groaned rubbing her head, her eyes still sleepy as she rubbed them to chase the sleep away. As she left the unfinished tower the cold morning breeze blew through her open hair. She realised she never rebraided it again, searching her pockets for a hair tie, she pulled one out quickly braiding her hair. It did not have to be perfect, just as long as it stayed out of her face.

“Pearl?”

Gem called out stifling a yawn. The morning sun illuminated her face and the tower behind her, she squinted bringing a hand to her face to protect it from the sun. She yelled out for Pearl again, the avian hybrid couldn’t have gotten that far. Especially with the limited space that they had to work with. As Gem wandered around the tower and headed into the forest, she heard a pained yelp. Her ears perked up, it was Pearl's voice. She ran as fast as her hooves could take her, Pearl lay in a clearing, holding her chest.

“That pixie..”

Gem realised the situation, Scott must have gotten hurt. This was bad, Pearl had a giant slash across her chest as the blood soaked through Gems jumper. Although the situation was dire, Gem couldn’t stop herself from being excited at the fact Pearl kept her jumper on. She did not say anything out loud as she knelt down and helped Pearl pull off the jumper and use it as a pressured weight to stop the bleeding. Pearl then groaned loudly and to Gems utter horror, the wound began getting frozen over, Scott must have been using his powers to heal. Unlike his snow elf heritage, Pearl could not take the ice in her blood well. As the wound closed in, the woman sat up, her breathing heavy. Her hand was still clutching Gems' jumper close to her wound.

“I will kill him..”

She muttered, her eyes full of anger that Gem had never seen before, pure animosity. Not even back in Empires or Hermitcraft had Gem seen this side of Pearl. She was physically shaking, her pupils retracted in pure hatred, with a flap of her wings she propelled herself into the air leaving Gem standing there with her yellow jumper soaked in blood on the floor. The deer hybrid stood in stunned silence for a while, she felt a drop of blood fall on the ground. In all the panic Gem had forgotten that she herself had been hurt. She felt her cheek, it was badly cut up with blood seeping out of it. MUMBO! The woman thought before running full speed towards their cottage. She needed to make sure he had been okay, the cuts had been small, but it still had not stopped bleeding. She rushed into the house yelling out for the man.

“Mumbo?! Where are you?”

“Here Gem!”

She heard a voice from outside. Mumbo stood on the small terrace that he had clearly just built, Gem tried to stay positive about how it looked. The man for sure had skills, just not in building terraces, Gem made a note to fix it later. Mumbo’s cheek had been badly scratched up with wooden splinters sticking out of it. It had been a horrible sight to witness, the woman was glad she only had the blood and not the wood pieces, they looked uncomfortable. Gem approached the man and sighed looking at how Mumbo tried to pretend he was fine.

“Mumbo sit down, let me help you.”

“Gem, I am fine! It is really a little scratch up, I messed up when building the terrace and this has truly gone horribly-”

“Sit.”

The tall man sighed sitting down on the ground before Gem. She smiled and left to fetch the med kit from under her bed. Until they had a sturdy cupboard, with a lock, she would keep it with her. From past experiences she knew some people did not look twice when they were hungry at 3am. She returned to Mumbo who was walking circles on the terrace, the man could not sit still for even a minute. She coughed warningly as Mumbo quickly looked at her and sat back down. She began to treat the wound, by taking out the splinters and disinfecting the scars left on his face. One by one all of them are gone, she was slightly surprised to see how the wounds closed immediately after the disinfectant.

“How..?”

She shook her head, probably the server wards. I mean the same happened with the burns the other day. Of course she managed to pair up with the biggest idiot on the server, well aside from Scar.

“All good?”

“Yeah thank you Gem, I am a really bad builder as it appears to be.”

“You are lucky you have such an amazing, smart and innovative person as your teammate.”

“I am very glad to have you Gem.”

They both avoided the term soulmate. They were not soulmates, they were just teammates who happened to share a soul tie.

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Mumbo awoke in the middle of the woods, his face covered in blood. He sat up with a grunt. For his supposedly un-decaying state, he seemed to have horrible back problems. Although that could have been the fact he fell asleep on a very uncomfortable log. He reached instinctively to his face and immediately pulled back. Right he forgot about that, and now he could not touch it without further bleeding. Letting out a frustrated sigh, Mumbo went back to the base. The morning had been quiet even once he left the forest. The birds were chirping and the man had to use all his will power, to not think about Grian.

In the base he rushed to the sink. He did not know if Gem had been back, but it would be difficult to explain why his entire chin is covered in dry blood. He washed his face until he had been satisfied. His shirt had been torn up and his suit jacket still burnt from Tangos fire. The suit pants were covered in dirt with green stains on his knees. This would not work, he had made something last night before going to the woods. However, he needed Gem to see it before he waltzed out wearing it. Changing into his sleep wear, as he did not have time to look for another suit, Mumbo decided to start a woodworking project. It would help cover up the splinter issue, he just needed to be very careful to not get more. He had gotten accustomed to wood work and could even hold wooden tools, he did not have those reflexes when he had been hungry. That fact he knew and still somehow managed to mess it up.

Walking to the materials chest he noted there had not been enough to build the whole thing. Why on earth were trap doors so gosh darn expensive? I mean 6 wooden planks for 2 trap doors? That had been a ripoff, the gods needed to get on that issue before adding new creatures into this world. He sighed, less complaining, more work. Walking to the forest he chopped down some trees and converted them into buildable materials. The terrace turned out very clumsy and lopsided, but Mumbo had been proud. It looked nicely decorated with flowers, lavender flower beds decorated the area under the windows. It looked very cozy, he was about to get some chairs when he heard a yell.

“Mumbo?! Where are you?”

Right on schedule, in the middle of him making this cute. Great, now she will bully his building skills before actually seeing the final project. Why did builders always arrive when his builds looked tragic?

“Here Gem!”

He yelled out from the terrace, he wondered if he should sit on the railing, but the splinters decorating his face advised him to not do so. Perhaps he could convince Gem to polish the railing. He was not the best at excuses, but in case times got dire he had some tricks up his sleeves. Lack of sleeves at the moment, but it did not matter. He watched the deer hybrid peak behind the wall and then approached him. Her hair in a very messy braid and Mumbo made a note to offer her assistance. He often helped Pearl do her hair on Hermitcraft, he did not think it could be that different. He smiled, but his cheek hurt immensely from even moving a muscle, so instead he grimaced. Good work Mumbo, now she will think you hate her. To his surprise Gem sounded genuinely worried. Even with her own dripping wound she had been more worried about him.

“Mumbo sit down, let me help you.”

The man shook his head, chuckling nervously. He did not need help especially if it would mean risking something he did not want her to know.

“Gem, I am fine! It is really a little scratch up, I messed up when building the terrace and this has truly gone horribly-”

“Sit.”

Mumbo immediately sat down, that look meant danger and he did not want to get absolutely destroyed by Gem. He would not have a chance against her in a fight involving weapons. Besides basic respect for Gem, he had also been terrified. He did not want to admit it to her face, but he knew she knew.

As Gem ducked into the house again rummaging through something, Mumbo tried to sit still. He tapped his legs on the ground. He swayed back and forth, this had been unbearable. He got up and walked around the terrace, how could people stay in one place this long. Doc had once claimed he could have ADHD, but Mumbo brushed that off. He already had ASD so he did not need more issues. Gem returned, coughed and then gave him the sternest stare he had ever seen. Immediately rushing to sit down, he let Gem work her magic.

He breathed a sigh of relief, as his regeneration finally worked once a splinter got removed. One by one his face got healed, he could see it by looking at Gem. Her wounds began to vanish with every splinter gone. He sighed, this felt nice. Raising his hand to his cheek, it felt nice to not be in constant pain.

“How..?”

Gem wanted to ask him and Mumbo realised. Normal humans or even hybrids did not regenerate this fast. Gosh he hoped Gem did not catch on, but by her immediately brushing it off he realised he had been the only one worried.

“All good?”

“Yeah thank you Gem, I am a really bad builder as it appears to be.”

“You are lucky you have such an amazing, smart and innovative person as your teammate.”

He nodded, he liked the fact she avoided using the term “soulmate”. That was not them, he was not Gems soulmate. Roommate or Teammate had much better terms. He was Gem's friend, and currently he had been very happy for her being here.

“I am very glad to have you Gem.”

The man suddenly sprung to his feet causing the deer hybrid to stumble backwards, he had a mischievous grin on his face as he helped Gem up.

“Wait here please, I will be right back!”

He rushed back into the house as fast as he could with it seeming ordinary. In his room near the sewing machine he had finished two outfits, both green like the spring colours, with lavender accessories. He had been working on them in the evening and with Gem gone, he could take her clothing as a measurement. White bottoms for both to match the spring aesthetic, he picked up both manikins with ease and carried them out. By Gems wide eyed expression he knew she liked them.

“I know you despise skirts that are not very specific, so I made you the one with trousers. I look dashing in a skirt, I just avoid wearing them on Hermitcraft. The redstone-”

Gem had jumped and hugged him. His eyes widened for a second confused, he was not a big hug person. The only people who hugged him on a usual basis had been Ren and … he did not want to think about him. He hugged Gem back. She pulled back soon and smirked.

“I will be right back!”

She grabbed the clothing off the manekin and rushed inside. Mumbo had been happy she liked it, so he went back inside and into his room. He changed quickly, but Gem had been quicker when he left his own room, she sat on the kitchen table kicking her hooves excitedly.

“You remembered I do not like shoes! Mumbo!! This is so cute and such a soft material! I love it, I love it! The lavender highlights, are they for the marriage? I forgot the name. When a gay man and a lesbian get married”

“Lavender marriage”

Mumbo smiled, flustered by the compliments. He had been very bad at receiving praise. No matter how much he thought his work had been great, he did not believe people actually felt the same. He approached Gem and stopped right before touching her hair.

“Do you mind if I fix your hair? I mean I can do braids, I only have my red hair ties, is that fine?”

Gem nodded and Mumbo got to the task, he quickly took out her braid and rebraided the hair. It looked just like her old hair, but without the flower. He smiled leaning out the window and pulling out a dandelion and placing it carefully in her hair.

“There you go! Oh I was planning to visit Ren and Bigb, do you have any plans?”

Mumbo explained, he moved away from her face leaning against the window. The wind played with his hair as he avoided the direct sun. Gem gave him an amused look.

“Going to fix your half finished terrace, or will the sideways look be the new style?”

The man flushed angrily, his arms folded in mock frustration.

“How could you insult my beautiful work of art? It will truly be the build of the server!”

“Sure.. soon everyone will build their bases on the side and even better upside down. It will be the new side up.”

“Exactly!”

They both burst out into laughter as Gem lightly kicked Mumbo. She left to fix the terrace, Mumbo felt slightly bad for giving her more work. He slipped out walking to Rens base. It looked very box shaped. He thought back at how Gem insulted his terrace, she would not enjoy witnessing this mess. As he walked up he was immediately knocked to the ground by Ren. The dog hybrid wagged his tail excited to see Mumbo.

“Mumbo!! To what do I owe the pleasure?”

He jumped up, helping Mumbo to his feet. Bigb stood to the side, his hands filled with different tools. He had clearly been building something. The two dog hybrids could not have been less alike, Ren looked more like a wolf than any dog he had seen. On the other hand Bigb, well he looked very much like a normal dog. One of those with small tails that curled upwards and floppy ears. They did not kiss and Mumbo was sure they would not. Bigb had never been into relationships, he was always there for a fling and Ren could not stand that. Ren had been in a healthy polyamory with Doc and Martyn. Mumbo had learned all about the concept from Ren, it had really intrigued him. Although Mumbo had been too jealous to share… never mind this was getting dark.

“I wanted to ask if you have seen Martyn.”

The question probably hit the wrong spot as Ren's face darkened. He spoke shortly and with a hint of sadness. Mumbo understood Martyn was still Ren's partner even if he was acting strangely and not bonded.

“He came here trying to ally with me. I told him both or nothing and he left. He should be at Imp's base now.”

Mumbo nodded as he waved goodbye to the two. He managed to ruin the atmosphere and did not want to make it worse. Walking down from the base he saw the two dog hybrids exchange glances, before leaving to work on the box.

Walking down to the base, he indeed noticed the man. He had gotten into a heated argument with Bdubs, Impulse working as the mediator in case it got dicey. Impulse as the mediator seemed like a horrible idea, Mumbo walked up to them hearing their arguments.

“You robbed us! We deserve some kind of compensation! Besides that deal had been awful. You know our conditions”

“You cannot go back on our deal!”

“And you cannot be a lying thief!”

Bdubs retorted with anger in his eyes as he had been the most out of the moss around him Mumbo had ever seen. Mumbo decided to intervene before this ended badly.

“Okay I need everyone to breathe, everything will be okay. Now what is the issue?”

Bdubs grit his teeth, the missing holes in his teeth made him rather unsettling to look at. Impulse spoke up instead. The raw anger in the demon's voice present. He was not sure if Impulse had been a dragon or a demon since his traits could pass for both. He had never seen the man breathe fire, so he settled for a demon.

“Martyn stole our cows, because he was "Hungry ". We asked, well bdubs demanded, some compensation. We gave him an easy way out and he is still arguing. I believe he is asking to lose a life here.”

“Greens cannot fight to the death.”

Mumbo spoke sternly, he did not care that he had been a weak human in their eyes, he would not allow fighting when it could be easily avoided.

“Martyn, what is your side of the story?”

“I am not going back on the deal- You know what screw you.”

Bdubs gave him a very smug look as Impulse sighed done with this childish behaviour.

“You give us a red mushroom and we give you and only you access to the cow pit. Deal?”

“Deal.”

Martyn threw down the mushroom and headed off, Mumbo immediately trailed after him. He needed to talk to the man, before he fully went insane in solitude.

“Hey mate, spare me a minute?”

“If I do not, will you continue following me like a dog?”

The man replied coldly. He continued to walk as Mumbo followed, slightly annoyed by the comment. He needed to stop letting such things get to him anymore. It has been years.

“We need to talk! You cannot just stay here alone, with no allies.”

“I do not need anyone Mumbo. Just because we are the two humans on this server does not mean I need something from you.”

“I am not saying that! I was just seeing if you want to ally with Gem and I! We have food and shelter and you do not have to be alone-”

“Mumbo. If I wanted your help I would have asked for it. Now get the hell out of here. Just because we had been allies in our last life, does not mean I will be yours again. You are really pathetic.”

Mumbo tried to remember them being allies last time. He could only remember bits and pieces, his mind slightly foggy. He remembered the sound “AHA” but had no idea what it meant. He brushed the thoughts away.

“Martyn, please- You cannot be alone here. It is dangerous and you could die! I am surprised you made it through the nether. You need someone on your side.”

“Dude. If I wanted an ally, I would get it this quick.”

He snapped his fingers to intonate his words. Mumbo sighed, this man was a lost cause. Well at least he tried. As the man turned around to walk away. He heard Martyn muttering, believing nobody could hear him.

“Thank you for caring.”

Mumbo smiled and whispered back, sure the other man did not hear. I mean humans had such a small earshot distance.

“Always mate.”

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Gem had been working on fixing Mumbos work, she fixed the lopsided look and polished the railing. She had been adding some finishing touches when she saw someone out of the corner of her eyes. It had been her dads. They were walking down the path together, perhaps gathering some materials. Both of them lost in thought. Gem smirked, having the best idea, she approached them from the back and jumpscared them.

“BOO!”

Impulse turned around his horns blazing and Skizz spread his wings out protecting the demon. They both let their guard down seeing it had only been Gem. The woman had been surprised since the two knew she often scared them.

“Hey Gemstone, you really want your dads to die from a heart attack?”

She looked at both of them smugly.

“Where are you two heading? Can I come?”

She watched them exchange glances, before Impulse shrugged.

“Sure, we are just going for a walk. Nothing serious.”

She nodded as she positioned herself in between them, she would not allow them to start being sappy! Not again, besides Lizzie had been pa’s soulmate and she could not let them break her heart. Even if they have been the two gayest men on all the servers, she would not let pa hurt her.

“SO! Where is Lizzie?”

Skizz stiffened quite visibly and Impulse sighed. They were hiding something.

“She was building, told me to leave so I do not make it ugly.”

Skizz replied cheerfully, but Gem heard the hint of coldness in his voice. Gem had always been good at figuring out what her dads were up to. This time was no different.

“You two better not hurt your soulmates.”

They both immediately froze. Skizz’s wings fell as he turned away. Impulse stood in front of him, his horns blazing.

“You do not know what you are talking about Gem. Our soulmates do not love us and let us go. It is as simple as that. You are making your dad uncomfortable. Apologise.”

Gem stiffened, they never talked to her this way. The raw anger in Imp's eyes and the way Skizz avoided her gaze. She nodded, smiling.

“Yes, sorry. I have to go”

She said before running for the woods. She was not upset, she had been angry. Those two would end up hurting Lizzie and she was not okay with that. She rushed to find Lizzie, but she had not been in the base. Gem couldn’t help but admire the way the base had been decorated. Lizzie had been an excellent builder and it was visible by the two cute cottages.

She sat down at the stairs only to see Bdubs wander in very confused to see her. He approached Gem waving the confused look replaced by a weary smile.

“Hey Gem, have you seen your dad?”

The deer hybrid froze, she had been worried about Lizzie getting hurt and hadn’t thought about the glare hybrid. She shook her head and began to panic. Her breath had been hitching as she tried her best to not cry. Bdubs rushed to her side pulling her into a hug as he whispered trying to get her to calm down. She hugged him back, not sure if she could even tell him. She knew there had been no feelings between the two, but if Mumbo just left to be with Grian she would have ended worse than Pearl. Her dads were the reason Lizzie and Bdubs would be in the same situation as Pearl. They hurt the two people who would never hurt them. They were just as bad as Scott. Her hands clenched into fists raw anger flashing in her eyes. She stood up so quickly Bdubs got pushed back.

“I am sorry Bdubs. I am sorry.”

She rushed by so quickly she pushed Lizzie who had been returning to her base, leaving the fairy and glare hybrid looking at her confused.

She found her dads on the field they were both holding hands, she did not want this for anyone, not Lizzie, not Bdubs, not Pearl.

“You two are so disgusting. I cannot believe you would do this! Your soulmates do not even know! Gosh how stupid can you be! You do not care how your actions affect others?!”

Impulse did not reply looking down at the ground intently. Skizz sighed and patted the ground inviting Gem to sit. She did not, instead folding her arms and leaning against the tree.

“Gemstone, we are not doing anything. Lizzie left to talk to Joel and Bdubs had been busy. We just went for a walk. You are blowing this out of proportion. Impulse is very sorry for speaking to you in that tone before. He was just worried about me.”

Impulse nodded looking up at Gem with regret in his eyes as he stood up walking towards her.

“I promise we will not do anything that could hurt our soulmates. See we did not have the soulbound kiss. Sorry I really freaked out on you, I just hated seeing Skizz like that. I promise there is nothing going on. Bdubs and I are working on some things together and Skizz and Lizzie have their own thing. We just allied together, Bdubs and Lizzie know. I think we would like to have some allies. It would be better than being alone.”

Gem nodded, perhaps she had overreacted. She just could not let anyone end up like Pearl. The look in the avian's face still came to her in her nightmares. The way she went insane, her mind cracking. Everyone knew Scott had been gay, so it was not a romantic situation. The bonds were made by the gods, so breaking them would only bring the people pain.

“I am sorry dad… I just did not want anyone to end up like… Pearl.”

Impulse hugged her gently and Skizz soon joined, covering them both with his wings.

“Nobody will end up like Pearl, I think Bdubs is still terrified of her. We will get through this I promise.”

She hugged them back, they were both her dads and she was quick to anger. Especially if it had to do with her crush. She was open about it now.

“I think I like Pearl.”

“WHAT?!”

“YES! That is 20$ to me! Cough up Impulse!”

“You two were betting on it?!”

Impulse rolled his eyes and handed Skizz the money, who immediately pocketed it. Gem smiled amused by the sight of two old men acting like teenage boys.

“You two are such dorks, who was your guess dad?”

“Lizzie, I mean you talked a lot about her after Empires, and when you got worried about her I thought I won.”

“Joel's wife?! EW DAD! She is my friend what is wrong with you”

Gem made a face of mock disgust. The two were unbelievable. Lizzie was already taken and she had always been a friend to Gem. Skizz spoke confidently as he looked at Impulse.

“I have a great crush-dar. I know everything before they themselves know!”

Suddenly Skizz began coughing as if his lungs had been obstructed, he fell to his knees as Impulse and Gem rushed over.

“Pa? Are you choking?”

Skizz shook his head, his face turning blue, he mouthed something. His eyes darted at both of them in panic.

“Lizzie-”

He whispered before he fell to the ground vanishing, the respawn system although better than an actual corpse was deeply unsettling. The chat read; Lizzie drowned, Skizz died. Great now that was sure eventful. Not even a second later the second death message followed. Ren was killed by an enderman, Bigb died. Gem rolled her eyes exchanging annoyed glances with Impulse. In the same moment a message popped up; Mumbo: Nice. Mumbos message made Gem groan and Impulse laugh, the man would fail a skating trick, fall flat on his face and still say “Sick” or “Nice”.

“This is who my teammate is, dad. As you can see I am thrilled we are still alive.”

“He is a funny kid Gem, although sometimes he sounds like he is in his 60s”

“I will never forget the time he asked me to explain how to use a smartphone! He tinkers with redstone as if it is the easiest thing on the planet and he does not know how to use a phone??”

“Hey I had the same trouble with my phone!”

“Dad, you are old. Okay I am going to get back! I need to fix our base. It is really a mess. You should check on Lizzie and Skizz.”

He nodded as they both set off in opposite directions. Today had already been eventful and Gem hoped it would be over soon.

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Mumbo had been walking in circles, he noted that he was not productive today, but in the end when was he ever. He went caving and grabbed some materials as they have been running low, nothing too serious just the usual. He had been pleased to discover the redstone had not been touched so he could get a lot of it. Not only had it been a useful tool, it covered up the smell and looks of blood. He admired the work Gem did on the terrace and house. It looked truly marvelous, so he decided to take some mental notes on how she decorated, before depositing the materials and heading out to find people. He walked up to where the boat boys had been building their base, he could see Lizzie and the familiar mossy shape of Bdubs.

“Hey everyone!”

Mumbo greeted as everyone turned to look at him, Lizzie keeping a safe distance. Even with him being friendly to her, he knew she would not see him as one of their kind. Joel looked unusually angry, even more than he usually did.

“This bloody twat tried to spread rumours. I do not know what his deal is, but he is trying to mess with the system!”

Cleo approached them and Bdubs immediately turned his attention to her trying to convince her of Martyn and Scott betraying her, knowing well that had been her weakness. Mumbo interrupted.

“I met up with Martyn, he had been at your place and then left for the forest. He is most likely back in the nether. He does not want any deals with anyone. He made that abundantly clear.”

“Yeah Scott has been with me the entire time. You need to stop being such a child before I ground your ass.”

Mumbo and Lizzie politely smiled, trying to hide their amusement, while Joel burst out into laughter. Bdubs looked humiliated and retreated into his moss, muttering something under his breath, he walked back to his base. After a while Joel stopped laughing and looked at Lizzie.

“Yeah Liz, what did you want to ask about?”

At that moment Mumbo realised something. Joel's ogre antennas had become brown wolf ears with green endings and he had a tail. Etho and Joel must have had their soulbound kiss. He knew Lizzie knew and did not want to be there when the argument went down, he excused himself and walked away. He cursed himself for having superhuman hearing as he heard their argument all the way at the bottom of the hill, he tried to tune them out before he lost his mind. Instead focusing on other noises.

He heard a faint sound of an enderman, he shivered as the picture of Joel choking appeared in his mind, trying to get it off his mind, he walked down to see Tango and walked by Scotts place. The cottage had been redone and the whole area felt chilly. Scott probably added some winter magic to the place. He stood around looking at the beautiful view.

“Are you going to stand and gawk or are you going to come in and have some tea with me? You can come in.”

Mumbo looked startled by how calm Scott had been and nodded. He followed the man, entering his house. No barricades and no sharp wood objects, this will be a calm tea time. He sat down on the offered cushioned chair and accepted the cup of tea.

“You are not weary of me? I mean humans and elves..?”

“Oh not at all, you are harmless. Humans never dared to approach the elvendale gates, the elves live in extreme climates, so the closest encounters humans had with elves were hikers and divers, both seem friendly enough.”

Mumbo nodded seemingly satisfied with the answer. He took a sip of his tea, black, no milk, no sugar. His all time favourite. Scott and him chatted away drinking tea and sharing stories. Scott told him about the empire's world and Mumbo listened hungrily about a place where everything was possible. He himself talked about Hermitcraft and Scott seemed mildly entertained. Better than nothing, and he had been glad Scott did not see him as a threat.

Cleo entered some time later and immediately pulled Mumbo into a hug, no matter how tall the man was, Cleo somehow always managed to hug him so his feet left the ground.

“Hey cleo! Nice to see you too.”

Cleo dropped him down and he tried to regain his balance holding onto the table. Cleo looked like a normal zombie, but she had been incredibly strong. Her raw power could crack a door in half. He had witnessed that first hand in hermitcraft.

“Ello Mumbo, I see you and Scott are having tea? Mind if I make m’self a coffee?”

Scott shook his head and Cleo disappeared into the kitchen. Then the death message appeared, Lizzie managed to drown taking Skizz with her. Before Mumbo could even process what happened Ren went out next, killed by an enderman. The man shivered realising it was probably the same enderman he heard earlier. He pulled out his chat communication device and typed in one word: Nice. Scott smirked and Cleos head popped from the kitchen.

“That was cold.”

Scott said and Mumbo realised it had been a compliment, everything around Scott had been cold. Mumbo stood up and took a joking bow, they talked for a while and Mumbo set on his way to talk to Tango. Not before Cleo swept him off his feet with another hug. He was sure that if he lived with Ren, Joel and Cleo, he would not survive a day. He would be hugged to half death and then Joel would finish him off.

In the distance he saw smoke, perhaps the Ranchers had begun a campfire, as he got closer he realised it had been the whole ranch on fire. Mumbo rushed inside only to find Jimmy confused with burn marks on his hands. Mumbo was frustrated that Jimmy let Tango go.

“Where is Tango?”

“He ran off, I do not know what happened he freaked out and burnt me.”

Mumbo cursed mentally, he would not yell at the kid. The kid was definitely in his 20s but still a kid.

“Listen to me carefully. Go find Gem, now.”

Jimmy stood in stunned silence, before nodding and running off, he used his wings to glide down, and Mumbo noted that they were far too small for flight. No time, he rushed as fast as he could. He did not care if he was found out. He did not care if everyone knew, he needed to make sure Tango was okay. He rushed past Martyn who fell to the ground with the momentum and force of Mumbo's speed.

Mumbo could smell Tango's blood, it had always been so warm. Not drinkable in the slightest, he never tried, but the fact he knew the smell let him find the man easy. He had been in a cave near the warden area. Mumbo immediately grabbed him and pulled him away so he would not get any closer to the place where the warden could hear them. Immediately Tango began to burn Mumbos' skin, the man did not care. He could remake his clothing and the pain would subside immediately after Tango stopped. The vampire held Tango's hands and looked him directly in the eyes. He could see the panic and anger in the man's eyes. He knew the hybrid showed fear in that way.

“Tango. I am not letting you go. I am not going to let you do something you will regret.”

Mumbo knelt down to be slightly shorter than Tango, although it was barely a forth of a head. He watched the hybrid thrash burning his skin on his hands sending the fire upwards. He did not care at all, he would stay here. The pain grew to be unbearable, he felt as if his skin got burnt off or like he was holding freshly baked iron. He grunted, this had been the longest anger episode he had ever witnessed. He held his breath, to regain his senses and not pass out. Something reminiscent of recognition flashed in Tango's eyes.

“There we go. Count with me: 1 ... .2 ... .3 ....”

Mumbo began counting, the fire stopped being as intense and he managed to regenerate his shoulders and top of his arms. Tango stopped fully in a couple of seconds. His hands losing the fire as he jumped back terrified, he looked at Mumbo.

“No, dude. Did I hurt you again?”

Mumbo did not have enough energy to fully heal his wounds, he hoped Jimmy told Gem about this and she would heal. He smiled, shaking off the fire remaining in his hands.

“I am fine, glad to see you back dude. I was worried I had been too late.”

Tangos stifled a sob as he fell to his knees, Mumbo immediately pulled him in. Tango had been all about physical touch, it helped him calm down, regain his composure and was his love language. Although Mumbo had been different, he wanted Tango to be safe.

“You were, I should have just done it. I should have ended it all early so nobody had to suffer because of me. I am a monster, I do not deserve this life, I do not deserve Hermitcraft. They should have exiled me. I do not deserve them all, they are so caring and compassionate. I am a monster… a fire demon from hell. I should have stayed-”

“No.”

Tango looked confused, Mumbo had never spoken with such a stern voice. It was equal to a teacher reprimanding a student.

“Never say that again. Never. Nobody deserves the life you had before. Not even the deepest and most twisted individual. Your past does not defy you.”

Tango shook his head, his hair becoming a wild mess of fire again, it was flaming out of control as he pushed Mumbo away.

“You cannot talk about this. YOU do not understand what I’ve been through. You NEVER will. You humans all you do is act like the saviours. You know nothing! You will never understand… Shoot sorry Mumbo, I think I am still not fully back to my senses.”

Mumbo was not upset, he did not care what demeaning things Tango said, he had heard way worse. He smiled, as he leaned against the wall. Gem began to heal and he could see his wounds slowly regenerate. He breathed a sigh of relief, the whole debacle messed with his appetite.

“What did the man you were neighbours in the cell block say? Number 27. What were his words?”

“How did you…?”

“Doesn't matter, what did he say?”

Tango sniffed looking down at his hands which began to burn again. He tried to breathe and calm down thinking, he never wanted to think about that place again.

“He said that no matter how much they try to convince me that I am a monster, I should not let them.”

Mumbo nodded approvingly, then he saw the hybrid's hands become fiery again. He was clearly panicked as his eyes turned fully red, the colour of pain.

“Mumbo, I killed them. I took out all the guards who stood in my way when I escaped. I became just like them. Just like what they told me I was. I became a killer. I do not care what 27 said, he was better than me. He had been there long before me and I don't even know how long. Since vampires live forever. He was always so calm, never angry, I am a monster.”

The taller man's eyes began to turn a shade of red, an angry vampiric protective colour. He pulled Tango closer, taking his hands again. He needed Tango's full attention as the man's eyes went back to normal.

“Never apologise for what you did in your survival instinct. Do not even dare. So you killed some guards and you hurt some people. They were the reason you were there. You made it out. You are alive, you are safe. This is what it means to be a survivor. This is what it means to survive. You are not what they said you are. You are the only person that can define yourself. Got that?”

Tango nodded, his anger subsided, replaced by a hitched breath and dark eyes. Mumbo knew his eyes had been off colour, but Tango's fiery hair could work as a great excuse. The fiery man sat down folding his leg under him, he looked distraught.

“I left 27 there, what if he is still there? I should have done something.”

Tango's fists clenched as his eyes looked away from Mumbo in shame. Mumbo smiled even after all this time, the kid remained exactly the same.

“He is safe.”

The nether hybrid tilted his head confused and then hopeful.

“How do you know?”

“Well I know Vampires, had to escape one a while ago, they are very strong and even more cunning. If he wanted to, he would be out.”

“So why did he stay?”

Mumbo gave him a raised eyebrows look, as if saying “really?”. Tango's eyes lit up in confusion and disbelief.

“He stayed for me. He stayed because he knew I would not make it alonr. He is a fucking idiot.”

Mumbo burst out laughing and Tango soon joined. This felt like a nice reunion, sadly only one of them knew it had been one.

“I have a question: how did you know about 27?”

“Zed told me, he said it would help you calm down.”

“Of course he did, sneaky sheep. You know you are not too bad, human.”

Mumbo grimaced jokingly and looked down at the hybrid. He had been so happy to see him alive the first time he came to Hermitcraft. The man truly looked better, the fiery spirit unsuppressed and the pure mechanical genius. Mumbo had been amazed by the innovative genius of the man, he had not been surprised, he knew the kid was smart, but to see it all in action was different.

“You aren’t so bad yourself kid.”

“Mumbo, I am older than you.”

The man immediately realised his mistake and giggled. Tango had a worse sense of humour than him and everyone knew Mumbo to be the forgetful type. I mean he forgot to eat, locked up with redstone in his base.

“I was talking to Jim before you, it slipped out.”

“Jim is a couple years younger than you!! You are both kids”

Tango spoke knowingly with his eyes closed and nodding his head, when he opened his eyes Mumbo stuck his tongue out at him. He knew Tango's old act had been a ruse, he had not been that old. Still old enough for Jim to get teased by Scott, but not decrepit.

“Okay Grandpa.”

“You little!!”

Mumbo laughed, running through the caves with Tango on his tail, they ran all the way to a cave opening, with a beautiful lake in the middle, the ceiling decorated with stalactites. Mumbo suggested that they spend the night there. He refused when Tango asked if he needed some sort of blanket. He slept close to Tango and the warmth had been enough to keep him comfortable and for Tango to believe he did not need a blanket.

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Jimmy had never run so fast in his life, nor had he ever seen Mumbo so angry. He felt a pang of pain knowing Mumbo did not remember him from last life. Why would he, players were meant to forget, but it still hurt. The spyglass he carried in his inventory since he first got it. Wishing he could give it to Mumbo. He ran quickly, halting at Gem and Mumbo’s base, clearly built by Gem. He walked in and found Gem on the floor. Her eyes wide clearly in pain, Jim realised what Mumbo meant. Mumbo went to calm down Tango. Jim immediately knelt down.

“Gem I am here, it's Jimmy.”

After not getting a response, instead Gem let out an ear piercing scream, he dropped a fire resistance potion on her. Nothing worked, of course it wouldn’t! She was not the one on fire. You are an idiot Jimmy, this is why the Watchers… not them right now. He pushed a healing potion against her lips and forced her to take it, it worked a little, but she was still in pain. He did not know what to do, so he began talking to her as a distraction.

“Our ranch got burnt down, but that is okay! Scott said he will put out the fire and everything will be fine. I know this is not ideal right now, Mumbo is trying to calm down Tango and I feel like he is being difficult. He burnt me as well, I hope the burns heal soon. I do not need more defects.”

After what felt like literal hours Gem stopped screaming instead she just sobbed quietly. Jimmy stopped talking as he looked at her. She did not sit up, but took the golden carrot offered by Jimmy and began to eat. Her face streaked with tears.

“Can you stand up?”

Gem shook her head.

“Can you talk?”

“Yes.”

“Great! I have more healing potions if that would help, I did not have time to grab pain numbing potions.”

“I will kill Mumbo.”

“He was just trying to help!”

“Yes, but he is a human! Tango would burn him to a crisp and not think twice. I know him from Hermitcraft, the man is a mess. He needs reminders to eat. Do you think he stands a chance against Tango?”

Gem yelled out in pain again, Mumbo seemed to be getting into the danger zone again. Jim flapped his wings using them as a small fan for Gem. When the pain subsided, Gem slowly sat up still eating the golden carrot, her hair had been a mess.

“You good?”

She nodded and began to eat more hoping that this would heal Mumbo injuries, she drank a healing potion just in case.

“Thanks Jim. I am a strong believer we would have died.”

“Don’t mention it.”

“I hope Mumbo is okay, it is getting dark.”

Jimmy nodded, the dark weather unsettled the man. He sighed as he watched the sun slowly fall down into the ground.

“We should go to the evening meeting.”

“Tango will not go. I know him well, when he had anger spells in Hermitcraft, he would stay curled up with Zed, so your soulmate is with mine right now. Do not worry, no funny business Mumbo still likes Grian.”

“Do you want to skip the meeting?”

“Wow and disappoint Grian? That's a lot coming from you, what is your deal with Grian?”

“He is my brother.”

Gem did not press further, she showed Jim to Mumbos room and went to her own room, she had been exhausted falling asleep as soon as her head touched the pillow.

Chapter Text

Gem lay in her bed, her eyes staring up at the ceiling. She did not know how long she had been awake for, long enough for Jimmy to wake up and leave the house. The sun shone through her window, playing with her hair and illuminating the freckles dashed around her face. She had always hated how basic they looked, back when she lived with her herd everyone had them. When she moved to Hermitcraft, she was admired and for the first time ever Gem felt special. She felt happy and nobody tried to make her into something she was not. The door of the house creaked open and Gem sat up, her train of thought leaving the station. She could barely hear the footsteps, but she knew who it had been. She flung open the door speaking sternly and loudly.

“Mumbo.”

The man froze looking at the short woman before him, he had been almost trembling in fear. She was pleased she had that effect on the man, especially with their height difference. The deer hybrid noted that the human had unusually quiet footsteps, it had been as if he was creeping, but he was just quiet. Mumbo never raised his voice and kept to himself. The first time he actually began to laugh and express emotions was when Grian, Scar and the one who shall not be named brought him into the friend groups.

“Mumbo, that was not okay.”

He nodded looking at the ground, he wanted to say something, his mouth opened and no words came out.

“What you did was so stupid! I cannot believe you!!”

Gem approached the man and slapped him, he did not push her back, nor do anything. He held his cheek looking at her slightly taken aback. His silk clothing had been burned and stained. His skirt had been replaced by sweatpants clearly too small, borrowed from Tango.

“You are a human Mumbo! You could have gotten hurt! You were hurt, you could have died! You do not think about yourself at all! That is so reckless, you will die one day and nobody will have time to save you. Let the hybrids deal with the hybrids, stay back and do not get into trouble! You know how to do that, why is this suddenly different?!”

She yelled at him, her eyes filling with tears. She did not care in the slightest that she got hurt with him, she had been so worried. The man had no regard for his personal safety. He was reckless and constantly put people before him. It was an admirable trait, but so stupid. Hybrids were powerful and could deal with their own issues.

“Gem I am sorry, I forgot about the bond. Well I did not, but I hoped Jimmy would help. I am sorry for hurting you.”

“I am not mad about that Mumbo! I am mad because you are reckless and do not care for your own health! Even if we were not bound right now, I would yell at you! Because I care, this might be a new concept for you, but people can care about you. Just like you care about them. I do not care that you are human. I would treat you the same way if you had been a hybrid!”

Mumbo paused his eyes looking at hers, a flash of understanding. He knelt down looking up at Gem. She sighed and ran forwards hugging him, breathing a sigh of relief as he hugged her back.

“Thank you Gem.”

“You are so stupid Mumbo. How have you survived 23 years again?”

“Technically 24.”

“We missed your birthday?!”

“What? Oh no, I just had a small party. Does not matter, I missed it myself. I have been working on a project.”

Gem rolled her eyes ruffling Mumbo's hair with one hand. If the man took better care of himself he could pass for a very prestigious gentleman. On hermitcraft his hair had either been short or a rats nest. Both times it was stained with redstone. She sighed helping him up.

“Go change, I will go make us food. You are such an idiot.”

He nodded disappearing into his room. She rolled her eyes and changed herself, she wore her usual overalls, feling bad wearing Mumbo’s gift when his matching one got burnt. She took off the lavender from the outfit and used it as a flower crown for her horns. She was making breakfast when she heard something crash and fall in Mumbo's room, causing her to rush to the door.

“Are you good there?”

“Yeah I dropped my redstone supplies, sorry! I’ll clean it up”

She sighed, the man was helpless. Finishing breakfast, she made them both tea, not knowing what tea Mumbo liked, so settled for black tea. The deer hybrid had apple and cinnamon flavoured tea. Mumbo still had not arrived, and they say girls take ages to get dressed. The man made an appearance a little later, his hair even more of a mess than usual. His nose and chin were covered in redstone. His suit on the other hand, ironed and in pristine condition.

“Mumbo! Gosh you are horrible at keeping your face clean! Go wash your face!”

He smiled embarrassedly and disappeared into the bathroom. When he emerged he looked as clean as ever and he sat down to eat. The eggs had gone cold and rubbery, but he did not seem to mind eating them. He complimented her work making Gem roll her eyes and throw a towel at him jokingly.

“You are a goof, the eggs would have been hot if you arrived on time. Here is your tea, Mr. British tea lover.”

He laughed covering his mouth as he listened to her sarcastic remark. The tea had been warm and yet he drank it as if it were a glass of orange juice on a hot summer day.

“Woah slow down big guy you will burn your throat!”

“I will be fine! The tea is divine Gem. Thank you for this glorious meal.”

“Sure. Do not mention it. Plans for today?”

“I was going to start on some traps and then go talk to Scar. I have something to give him. What about you?”

“Well not really, I wanted to talk to dad and pa, but I do not know if they have time.”

Mumbo nodded, their discussion going on smoothly. Gem was glad she could relax for a while. The last days had been too eventful for her liking. Sitting comfortably in her chair, enjoying the man's company.

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The snow elf stood at the bridge connecting his and Cleos base waiting for the zombie. He was gripping his axe, he wished to get this over with. The pain did not bother him, the anticipation was the worst. Soon enough the Zombie walked towards him, she was clearly still sleepy as she yawned and stretched.

“Ello Scott, ready?”

He nodded, his axe gripped and he slashed across her chest. Cleo grunted and gave him a thumbs up. Her body started to stitch itself, covering the wound back up. It looked very uncomfortable and from what Scott knew it had felt way worse than just uncomfortable.

“Your turn.”

He spoke coldly, he had been very busy today and needed this over with. The plans could not wait a second longer, he held back a pained cry when the axe hit him. Blood gushed out onto the bridge, he was glad he had been smart and removed his shirt for this. With a heavy sigh he placed his hands over his chest and slowly forced ice into the wound, closing it. The process had been very difficult for him, as the ice had been cold and the blood warm. When the wound sealed he put his shirt and cape back on.

“Do you really need a cape everywhere you go?”

“I am a Prince, Cleo, this is a sign of royalty.”

“Yeah, but it will get in the way of non magic duels.”

“Perhaps, but I can take it off when times are dire. I have plans. See you!”

“Bye Scott!”

The man headed off the bridge using an ice path to keep himself in the air, which deleted itself behind him. As a warning he sent a blast of snow to the bleeding heart forming a cloud over the top of it. He smiled thinking of Martyn waking up cold, he deserved this for giving Cleo the cold shoulder. Landing in front of the ranch he was pleased to see it had been slowly rebuilt, well in the process of rebuilding. He walked in through the gates.

“Jim? Tango?”

“Here Scott!!”

Jimmy's excited voice made Scott blush as he walked up to the two men, they had been side hugging and Jimmy immediately pulled Scott into a big hug, Tango joining in. Scott had to admit he enjoyed Tango's strong arms around him, he could see the appeal.

“So, what is the plan?”

“Oh yeah right! Come inside!”

Jimmy blushed and Tango gave the avian a slight pat on the back as they both entered the house, Scott followed. He took off the cape hanging it on the hanger with Jimmy's blue jacket and Tango's red and leather ones. Walking towards the two, he sat down to Jimmy's side, the avian immediately snuggled in between the two. This felt nice, Scott could relax for once. No titles, no crazy exes.

“Scott, what would happen if you had two soulbound?”

The question from Jimmy startled Scott, a blush on appeared on his face. The elf covered brought a hand to his face.

“If you wanted a kiss you could have just asked birdie”

Scott smirked seeing the way Jimmy blushed looking at Tango panicked who had the same smirk as Scott. The fire demon and the ice elf both seemed to enjoy the avian squirming. They both leaned in kissing Jimmy while Scott played with his feathers and Tango his hair. Jimmy blushed as he kissed them back. He kissed Scott and pulled back, looking surprised as Scott had yellow ends in his hair.

“Woah! You look so cool!”

The elf hybrid had been too distracted by Jimmys eyes, now the colour of ice, so beautiful. He brought a hand to cup Jimmy's cheek.

“You look stunning my bird”

Jimmy did not protest as he was pulled into another kiss, Tango rubbing his back. The avian quickly changed, flipping to his stomach leaning against the two. They both knew how avians hated to be on their back. Scott loved how he could flirt so easily with the man since Empires.

“Have I ever told you that you make such a cute little sheriff? Tango you should have seen him, so fierce. I am still upset about the handcuffs, perhaps we can fix that issue don’t you think?”

Tango smirked at Jimmy's flushed face while Scott looked at Tango's lips. He hoped the fire hybrid would notice and to his delight Tango brought a hand to his chin. The warm touch made Scott feel butterflies as his face was millimeters from Tangos, the hot breath on his face. Unlike with Jimmy the kiss had been very fiery and Scott had almost no control over it, letting Tango take over. When he pulled back he was out of breath and blushing heavily. Jimmy giggled and kissed Tango and then Scott. The elf noticed that Tango's fiery hair had turned blue. Cold fire had been even worse and more deadly than regular fire, so he just made Tango very powerful and people said love wasn’t powerful.

“My my, you are looking fierce”

Tango smiled, he brushed the hair falling over Scotts eyes, and Scott felt the butterflies return. This had been so unusual, he knew about polyamory, he just did not expect he would enjoy it as much. He wanted Jimmy and it appears he wanted Tango just as much. Jimmy oohed surprised as he pulled out a pocket mirror.

“Scott!! Your eyes!!”

Scott accepted the mirror checking his reflection, one of his eyes remained cold and blue while the other had turned red, his cold freckles became warm toned and spread around his face. He realised he loved this new look. He did not look like a fierce snow king anymore, but he looked happy. His cheeks flushed and his eyes with a sparkle of joy. He could forget all his problems and just focus on the Ranchers.

“I wish I could stay here forever.”

He mumbled his eyes half opened as he rested against Tango, Jimmy had snuggled on top of both of them, he was such a cutie.

“Why don’t you? We accept you here Snowflake.”

“Snowflake..?”

Tango flushed and looked away as Scott gave him a knowing smile resting his head on the man's shoulder.

“I get it, firefly, it is cute.”

“Just like you”

“Oh you flirt!”

The elf watched Tango laugh as he pulled him in closer. Scott snuggled on the mans chest and Tango's arm snaked behind him embracing him. The other hand, petting Jimmy's hair.

“Oh Scott!”

Tango pulled one of his earrings out. It had been simple jewellery with Jimmy's feather. Scott would never usually stoop to low quality earrings, but this was special. He took out his expensive silver one and handed it to Tango who put it on. He added the beautiful feather to his ear. He smiled as he stroked Jimmy's wings.

Scott did not know how long they cuddled for, it felt not even close to enough, when he got a message from Cleo. Groaning quietly to not wake up Jimmy who lay on top of them. He showed Tango the message and the hybrid nodded slowly pulling Jimmy onto his lap. Scott leaned in kissing the fiery hybrid watching as his hair burnt up, clearly flustered as Scott walked away. He grabbed his cape holding the door frame and waved goodbye winking. He loved seeing the flustered look and the wild pink fire in his hair. He had not known it turned pink when he had been flustered, it was cute.

Scott made way to the area using his ice to travel back the same way retracting the snow cloud from Martyns base. He had been in a good mood and decided to be civil. Especially since he had been Cleos. Back at their bridge he noticed Cleo standing with both their exes. Martyn was talking to Cleo, while Pearl stood to the side her arms folded, she did not seem bothered. Oh right the exercises, with all the recent events he had forgotten he had that set up.

“Oooh, the pixie is late. First time occurrence everyone! We had a small break from its pesky noises.”

Pearl mused trying to get a rise out of Scott. Normally it would but he just threw a snowball at her and turned to face Cleo. The zombie immediately realised where the changes in his appearance came from and gave him a cheeky smile. He flushed, beginning to talk immediately.

“Okay! We will be starting with trust falls! Who wants to go first? The task is for the soulmate to push you off the cliff into the water.”

Seeing how Pearl did not budge from her place, holding the wing feathers close to her head, Martyn volunteered Cleo and himself. The zombie woman nodded, she closed her eyes letting the man lead her to the end of the cliff. Scott watched curiously as Martyn pushed her. Everything seemed fine until the death messages popped up and Martyn vanished from the hill.

“Free items!”

Scott approached picking up what he wanted and throwing the rest into the water. Pearl had been furious taking flight immediately, she hovered before Scott fury in her face.

“Trying to kill me?! WOW Scott, and I am the insane one. No teaming, goodbye.”

He groaned as she flew up and away towards her tower. This would be a long day. Cleo left from her base cursing, annoyed by the disturbance to her life, not only was this a waste of time, she lost a life. Scott stood still as she yelled and groaned annoyed at Martyn and Pearl.

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Mumbo had gotten busy preparing traps, Gem was running around the house, although he was not sure what she had been up to. He successfully created 3 lava traps, he wished he had sugar cane, Gem had some sand hidden, but what could he do without sugarcane. He sighed as he began working on the fourth trap, he aligned the trap to be lever activated. He added two levers, one for this trap and one for the gate. He wondered if he could ask Gem to build the wall since the plain redstone gate would be suspicious.

“Gem?”

There was noise in the house before the deer hybrid rushed to him, agile as she avoided the traps jumping between them with ease.

“Yes Mumbo?”

“Can you start on a wall? I am still trying to work on this trap, and might need some assistance.”

She nodded, returning back into the house. She came back with many types of stone and similar coloured materials. Mumbo watched in awe as she began with the dark deepslate base before continuing to the next shade. This will be the cutest gradient when she is done. The redstoner sighed. He should not gawk and go back to the thing he was good at. He should not think about this. It would just make him sad. He added the lava and resurfaced. Gem had done half the wall and was sitting on top kicking her legs looking at the view.

“Nice view up there?”

“Yep!”

Mumbo hummed under his breath as he began aligning the redstone and the blocks in order to make it not seem as suspicious. The lever accessing the trap had been placed on the wall making it look like the gate lever. The actual gate lever had been on the floor hidden behind a bush. Quite simple redstone, but would be an effective trap.

“Hullo, is Gem home?”

Scotts voice caught Mumbo off guard as he pulled down the lever he had been holding falling down. He did not even have time to scream out as the lava enveloped him, swallowing him like a hungry beast. He felt his insides burn, before waking up back in his bed. His breathing heavy, he could still feel the phantom pain.

“Mumbo, I am going to kill you!”

Not a dream then. He left his bed slightly annoyed. He did not have many items on him, but he had his armour and tools. He put on the back up armour while Gem retrieved her things. She made sure to smack him on the head with her sword. It had been a light tap, but still humiliating. Scott watched the whole situation with amusement, Mumbo let him in with the proper lever as the elf thanked them.

“Gem, I need a favour.”

“What’s up?”

“Pearl built a base on our bridge and will not leave. Cleo is planning to burn her, but she is linked to me. I cannot die.”

Mumbo noted how different Scott looked, the feather earring made sense. His own feather earrings had been locked away. Mumbo could not bear to look at them without feeling Grians feathers around him.

“Cute look Scott.”

Mumbo commented, causing the pale elf to blush and shake his head annoyed, but pleased nonetheless.

“You’ll get used to it. Gem? Will you help?”

She nodded and followed the elf leaving Mumbo alone. He called out after them.

“I will be here! Just standing!”

Gem threw him a thumbs up without even looking back. He stood on his feet swaying back and forth. Until standing still got too much for him to bear.

“I will visit Scar!”

They did not reply, he texted Scar about an earlier meetup and immediately got a reply: Sounds good magic man :D. Well at least someone cared. Mumbo grabbed his redstone inventions, his pickaxe and some coal. He was planning to go mining so he would need all of this, he thought, walking to the meetup point near the cave entrance. The Vex Hybrid still used the cane Mumbo made for him. He was smiling and waved at him with the empty hand.

“Hey Scar!”

“Mumbo!!”

He got pulled into a warm hug, despite his anger and jealousy Mumbo hugged Scar back. The soulmate system hadn’t been Scars fault.

“Nice to see you!”

“Nice to see you too bud. I made you a little something. May I?”

Scar nodded as Mumbo leaned down and added the redstone leg supports around Scar's actual legs. He also handed Scar the newly made metal and redstone cane.

“You can walk with the supports only, but they crush your legs so you need a break. The cane can be made longer or shorter and you can add your sword or axe to it. I just thought it would be better than your old one.”

Scar looked like he was about to cry as he hugged Mumbo tightly.

“Thanks man! You really did not have to, especially after what I have done.”

“I am not chuffed with… never mind. I am glad to help. Want to go caving?”

The Vex hybrid nodded, taking both canes into his bag as they walked into the cave collecting resources and chatting, when Mumbos pickaxe broke, Scar made him a new one immediately. Mumbo smiled and Scar smiled back. Just like the old days. They both mined before finding their diamonds. Scar shrieked in excitement, these had been his first as it seemed. Mumbo let him have these as he mined for more, soon finding his own. They both found around enough for some armour and tools. As they headed out Scar spoke up.

“Grian cheated on me…well you..us? I am lost at this point. Basically he has a secret soulmate. He is pretending he does not, but I saw the dog tail and ears. I am not that dumb! Even with his stupid plain glasses it is so visible.”

The man nodded as he listened to Scar talk. He tried not to care, but it hurt. Not only did his boyfriend cheat on him, but he did the same to his soulmate. This made Mumbo think that if Grian did not have to stick with his soulmate, why did he not go with Mumbo. Did he not love him anymore?

“Oh sorry to hear that Scar…”

“Sorry Mumbo for putting this on you! I forgot you two are serious, serious.

“Well I do not think we are anymore.”

Mumbo spoke coldly as he walked away leaving Scar alone in the caves. The man needed to be alone and in a quiet environment. He would not get that from Scar or anyone else. He needed some space.

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Pearl had flown into her tower furious. Scott had tried to sabotage her, this would not do. The man wanted her dead and it had been clear with the way Martyn killed Cleo. She was not going to fall for his tricks. She would not let another man walk all over her. Not again, she slammed her chest shut, scaring Tilly. Sighing she approached the puppy petting her and giving her a treat.

“Sorry, Scott is just so annoying. I think I should pull something on him, what do you think?”

She took Tillys head tilt and tail wag as a yes, and looked through her materials finding some wood and netherrack. Perfect, ugly mixture. Scott will hate this, and that is what makes it so much better. She jumped out of her tower letting her wings carry her upwards and back towards Scotts base and bridge. Her landing could have been smoother. She twisted her ankle and winced in pain, a smile on her face knowing Scott felt her pain. She began building the ugliest house on the bridge.

“What do you think you are doing?”

Cleos voice rang behind her, she smiled leaning against the bridge. Her eyes scanned the woman, a smirk tugging at her lips. She found Cleos anger amusing, now that they were not on the same team, she could exploit it for her own benefit. It hurt slightly that Cleo did not remember her.

“What, do you not want me as your neighbour? I am offended”

She brought a hand to her forehead slightly slouching. A mock gesture of offence, the amused smirk on her face, betrayed that she couldn't care less.

“I will burn the house with you in it.”

“Taking your own teammate with me? How will he ever forget this?”

The avian walked on the railing making her way to Cleo, placing a hand to her chin tilting it up. The zombie had beautiful eyes, too bad they would not matter when she ripped her apart in the end.

“Unless you want me yellow so we can be together, how romantic.”

She mused, the condescension and amusement in her voice evident. Cleo slapped her hand away, not looking pleased. Her face carrying hints of disgust, Pearl pretended to not be hurt by it. The fact Cleo would never remember their trio was painful. Making her way back to the ugly bridge house, she sat on the makeshift windowsill.

“I am not killing you right now, because I value Scott as a teammate, mark my words. If you are not out soon, I am burning your house down, no matter if you are still in it.. Scott will come around.”

“Woah what is going on here?”

The snow elf walked in stepping onto the bridge, His face contorted in disgust as he saw the way the structure on his bridge looked. It had been on his beautiful, carefully crafted bridge and he would never accept that. He turned to Cleo, who had been holding a flint and steel and then to Pearl who sat on top of the house looking pleased with herself.

“Hey Scotty!! Missed me? I am moving in! We can be actual soulmates now!”

“Are you that desperate?”

“Oh Pixie, you know damn well how I feel about you. I just wanted to have some fun. Maybe make you lose a life, or two… or all.”

Scotts hands clenched into fists, as a gust of wind and snow surrounded them. He looked absolutely furious and Pearl relished in that look. Those icy eyes, even with heterochromia he still looked so angry. It was beautiful.

“Pearl, you either leave or I get you out myself.”

“And kill yourself? You are too proud for that, we both know that fact well.”

She watched Scott rub the brim of his nose and turn to Cleo. He had a glimmer in his eyes, like he had an idea.

“Cleo do not let her annoy you, I have an idea.”

The man walked away, his heels clicking on the pavement. The grass turned white with the snowy presence.

“Scott giving me the cold shoulder, what a surprise.”

Pearl smirked proud of her pun as she walked along the flat roof of her new house. Cleo stood to the side acting as if she was not interested, but Pearl could feel her eyes on her. Using that to her advantage, she jumped down and began building inside, adding a note block on the floor, playing horrible music. The zombie groaned in distaste.

“Pearl you have horrible music taste.”

Pretending to be offended, Pearl leaned out of her half finished window.

“I am offended. This is a work of art, you are the one with bad taste.”

The zombie made a distinct annoyed sound as she gripped the flint and steel harder in her hand, they were both caught off guard by the death message. Mumbo and Gem were both dead. Now this was interesting, she smiled looking at Cleo.

“Look, you have more yellow friends now. How sweet!”

“Pearl you are really testing my patience, be quiet before I go through with my plan. Not even Scott will help you, so be grateful I am being kind.”

She rolled her eyes retreating back to her base, this had been annoying, but whatever. Scott returned, he was with someone else. The double heel clacking, made Pearl think it had been Ren. To her surprise and slight defeat a voice called out.

“Pearl?”

“Gem go away. Do not get into this, it is between Scott and I.”

Gem walked up to the “base”, bending her head down so her antlers could fit through the door. She was giving Pearl a stern, parental glare. Pearl flushed in embarrassment and folded her arms.

“Scott deserves worse. Besides, I am giving him the option of being closer to his soulmate.”

“Pearl.”

“What?”

“Leave them alone, you have a beautiful Tower, fit for a princess like you.”

She shivered as Gems hand reached out and tucked a strand of hair falling on Pearl's face, behind her ear. The avian looked at the deer hybrid, the way her eyes were soft and her touch had been even softer. She did not understand why someone as kind and caring as Gem, would care about someone as twisted and cold as her. She folded her wings behind her back and left the house.

“I am doing this because I am bored. Not because of the deer. I do not want to be neighbours with the pixie. That would be horrible, I am sick already.”

She stuck her finger in her mouth gagging mockingly. She saw Scott roll his eyes, she walked towards him, tracing his jawline with her finger.

“I will still be there to torment you. I swear to be the reason you lose your first life.”

“You are all bark and not bite.”

The man challenged her. She let out a manic giggle, her eyes wild as she walked away. Her head spun 180 like an owl staring at Scott who had been clearly unsettled.

“Bye bye Pixie.”

She jumped off the cliff, seeing Scott immediately rush towards the bridge. She flapped her wings flying back eye level to him.

“Aww Scared? If you are, you know I am all-bite.”

“You are insane!”

“As sane as you love.”

Jumping off again, she let her wings glide her down before flying up and towards her tower. In the distance she saw her bridge base lit on fire, Cleo unleashed her inner arsonist. This was not new, the Zombie loved fire and the damage it brought.

Landing on the roof of her tower, she used her hands to swing her body down and into the base. Tilly looked exceptionally happy to see her, she begged the avian for pets. Pearl led her down the stairs. She made a mental note to ask Mumbo for help making her staircase redstone activated.

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The day had been beautiful, the birds singing, the sun glowing and the trees casting shade. Everyone seemed happy, everyone except Lizzie. She had seen Etho and Joel run towards Grain’s base, they both looked so happy. Deep down she knew Joel only loved her. He reassured her of that when she confronted him about the kiss. The reason had been logical, they needed to feel through the soul bond and communicate from far away. It still hurt, the pain had seeped deep into her heart and had been bugging her all morning.

She was distracting herself, by picking up flowers and making them into flower crowns, one for her and one for Skizz. Skizz was a nice guy, he helped her out and brought her resources, he wasn’t even mad when she died, drowning due to low health. The fairy never learned how to swim, she did not need to, her wings easily got wet and dragged her down. That time had been no different.

Holding the crowns in her hand, she placed one on her own head and rushed back to the cottages, her wings fluttering as she sped up the process. She had been excited to distract herself and talk to Skizz. At least he cared, he would be there. She flew to his cottage knocking on the door.

“Skizz?”

After she received no reply she opened the door slowly. The room had been dark, clearly left the way it had been at night. The curtains pulled forwards preventing any light coming through. Skizzes' bed had been empty. There were no notes, no anything. She sat on the floor, her heart broke further. Her own deceit is clear as day. Skizz never cared about her, he snuck out constantly under the claim of getting resources. He was gone from morning till night, she was always alone. She had been so lonely her mind began to play tricks on her, making her believe Skizz had never left. She felt tears fill her eyes falling to the ground as she clutched the flower crown.

Alone and unlovable, why was life so unfair, why could she never have the life she wanted. She had been through so much, in Empires and servers before. Why did she ever think this would be any different? She was crying as her vision blurred, there was nothing for her anymore. Nothing left in this dark and cursed world. She felt like she was falling, as the room began to spin, she tried to hold onto something, anything to stop herself from fainting. Her vision went dark as she fell into darkness.

To her surprise as she sat up, the darkness around her welcomed her, no hatred or fear. She stood up walking through it, her mind racing with possibilities. Has she finally died? Was this what the afterlife had looked like? If she was dead, why did she not take Skizz with her. So many questions and so little answers. A voice caught her off guard, it had been a voice consisting out of many voices coming from every inch of the darkness.

“Welcome Lizzie!”

“W-who are you?”

She was worried as she tried to take a fighting stance, all her armour and weapons gone. She was truly defenceless against this foe.

“We have watched you for a while Lizze. We know your pain, we are the only ones who can help you. You have been left behind, discarded, hurt. You tried so hard to play the role of a happy fairy, but that is not how you feel, isn’t it?”

The fairy paused looking down at the ground, she felt tears blurr her vision once more. Her mind foggy as she shook her head.

“We wanted to give you a chance, a chance for revenge.”

Her eyes lit up with a mixture of fear and hope. Revenge sounded good, she wanted them all to suffer like she suffered. The tears were replaced by pure hatred and anger.

“I want revenge. I want everyone to suffer.”

“We do not promise that, although that would be interesting. Will be saving that for future projects if we are bored enough. We could get you revenge on your worst enemy.”

She paused thinking. Who had hurt her the most. It was not Joel since after all he loved her and would do anything to change the bond and become her soulmate: Skizz. She wanted him to suffer. To feel all the pain in the world.

“I want Skizz to suffer. Skizz and his “secret” soulmate. I wish that even after one passes on the other would be haunted by him. I wish that they could not communicate with each other, just be a twisted image of their loved one. I hope they never get their happy ending.”

“So be it, Lizzie.”

The fairy felt herself falling, her mind cold and satisfied. She wished they were not a dream, that this would come true. Her eyes adjusting to the light, she took the flower crown off her hair and threw it on the ground, crushing it with her boot. Walking out of the cottage she slammed the door and entered her own cottage. The tastefully decorated house. She saw her reflection in the mirror and was filled with awe. Her pink hair had a gradient into purple and her transparent wings shone purple. She looked fierce as her eyes carried a dangerous glimmer, practically radiating with fierce energy.

“Anyone there?”

Bdubs’s voice caught her attention as she left the cottage looking at the mossy man. He looked confused and surprised to see her. It had not been surprising, everyone always came looking for everyone, but her. They would all pay. Just they wait.

“You look different, did you cut your hair?”

“You could say that. Why are you here Bdubs?”

The man shifted from leg to leg, a slight look of embarrassment as he kept his eyes on the ground. The fairy had been growing annoyed by the delay, she had places to be and not deal with someone's anxiety.

“I wanted to see if Impulse was here. He told me he went to see Skizz.”

“Impulse does not care about you. The sooner you accept that the better.”

She walked past him pushing his shoulder with hers as she got a new confident step in her walk. Lizzie felt a sign of satisfaction as she felt Bdubs’s eyes on her, most likely confused by the change. Unlike the time before, she did not care what anyone thought about her, she wished everyone to fear her. If she would not experience love, she would experience hate.

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Ren had been working on the base and farming Cows, when Bigb approached him. They made eye contact and Ren tilted his head. Bigb had a nervous smile as he spoke.

“Grian and I are having something going on. You know I am not big on relationships, but he is fine with nothing serious.”

Ren nodded leaving the cow pen. He was fine with that, they were both teammates so it was not a bother. He cleaned himself off as he smiled at the man. He had been quite surprised Bigb found a fling among the whole soulmate situation.

“You go mate! Need the box to yourself?”

Bigb nodded slightly flustered as Ren went into the box to change and pack some essentials. He left for a walk waving goodbye to Bigb. The weather was great, the sun was out and everyone had probably run off outside with their soulmates. Observing the situation, from the hill he saw Lizzie push past Bdubs walking away. The woman seemed more confident and he was surprised and happy for her. Even with how confused Bdubs looked, he was overjoyed to see Lizzie come out of her shell. To his left Mumbo was ambling, the tall man lost in thought. Ren walked down the hill, his heels clicking on the pathway. He approached Mumbo pulling the startled guy into a hug.

“Mumbo!”

The man stiffened, surprise flashing on his face before hugging him back. Mumbo was always so jumpy, but accepted hugs. Back in Hermitcraft Ren did not want to affiliate himself with the human, but was one of the first to warm up to him. Mumbo made very good hot chocolate that won Ren over every time.

“Hey Ren, you caught me off guard.”

“Sorry I was just excited to see you. What are you doing here?”

“I went mining with Scar and got some resources, so I was still not used to the bright sun. That is why your appearance surprised me.”

Ren nodded as Mumbo and him chatted, the dog hybrid sat on the ground, while Mumbo leaned against a tree. They were soon joined by the glare hybrid who had a look of wanting to complain in his eyes. Mumbo gave Ren a knowing look, they both greeted Bdubs. Ren braced himself counting till 3 as Bdubs opened his mouth.

“I hate today, I wish this all would be over soon. This death game is horrible!”

“Well it is a death game Bdubs.”

Mumbo commented as Ren nodded. He was not a fan of the game, but he did have fun roleplaying a king, even if it had only been pretend.

“I know that Mumbo. My soulmate is doing what I do not know what and our ally just left. I am left alone again! I tried getting Etho on my side, but I don’t even know where he is. It is a small server, where is everyone??”

Out of the corner of his eye Ren saw Joel and Etho sprint from the velvet keep, a mischievous grin on their face as Scar chased them. To Ren’s surprise Scar was not using a cane, instead he had grey and red mechanical help devices.

“Mumbo your work?”

“Huh, oh yes. I thought Scar would appreciate them more than the old cane.”

“OLD?! I polished it! That is offensive.”

Ren rolled his eyes, kicking Mumbo jokingly. Bdubs had a sour look observing the two. Ren really did not understand what the glare hybrids deal was. The sun shone brightly and he was even nearly out of his moss.

“This is a death game, stop fraternising! You two will die if you befriend everyone.”

“I think that would be the opposite of Bdubs.”

Mumbo tried patiently, but his response sent a wave of anger and frustration out of the glare hybrids mouth. Mumbo sighed, defeated, sliding down the tree and settling on the ground. Ren felt like the two of them would be trapped in this conversation for longer than he wanted. Ren was about to reply when he felt as if there had been a bunch of tiny sharp objects in his skin, he fell to the ground vanishing. He sat up in his bead breathing heavily, Bigb lay in the bed next to him. Ren got up to look at the man who was truly defeated.

“A creeper snuck up on me and Grian, I didn't even have a second. Grian flew away and I do not have wings.”

Ren chuckled as he observed the man. Bigb had cute parrot-like feathers on his face, they looked more like colourful freckles. He smirked, wiggling his eyebrows, he loved teasing people especially now that he could clearly see who was snogging who.

“Oh shove off. It was casual, you know I do not care for relationships.”

“Yep, but I will never stop teasing you about it, while I live and talk to you!”

“Okay idiot, I wish Doc were here so I could see your stupid face.”

The dog hybrid flushed and turned away. Bigb sat up smirking. Of course he would bring Doc into this. The man always knew how to get under Ren’s skin, they were friends for a while.

“A taste of your own medicine.”

Ren stuck out his tongue as Bigb threw a pillow at him.

“Oh it’s ON!!”

The first two reds began a pillow fight, not yet realising that they were dangerous or that they actually had to worry about being out of the games soon.

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Mumbo gasped as he saw Ren disappear, Bdubs stopped talking and Mumbo used that time to excuse himself and walk away. First reds, this was bad, he knew reds could and would get bloodthirsty, that is what Grian told him. He needed to get away from that area as soon as possible. As a yellow he did not want to take any chances, especially with how stupid he could be.

The Vampire had felt his hunger grow and groaned, he just ate in the morning, why again? Normally controlling hunger had been easy, sometimes it got to moments where if he did not eat he would lose control and the hunger would take over. Sighing he went into the forest, there had been a lot of doe and deer, but out of respect for Gem he avoided those. Instead settling for an unsuspecting rabbit, easily catching and killing it while draining it empty with a satisfied smack of his lips. Although his hunger slightly subsided, it had been enough to remain in control. He hated this life, but at least he could handle living off only animals. He buried the rabbit and wiped the blood off his chin.

Walking through the forest his ears perked, he could hear something. The clicking and loud thudding sounds; a warden. So close to the surface, he was probably tired and hearing things, but just in case he rushed away from that area making his way to the ranch. He needed to warn everyone, perhaps together they stood a chance.

“Hey Jim, where is Tango?”

Jimmy who now had icy blue eyes turned to look at the man smiling. He looked so carefree and well groomed with his shiny feathers and smoothed down hair.

“Hey Mumbo! He went to get a warden.”

Mumbo’s face paled as he realised what he heard had not been a joke. He ran past Jimmy down Scott and Cleos bridge. He needed to warn Gem. He had gone against a warden back in the fights, but he could not handle this again. The pain, the deafening screams, he was deaf for days after that encounter. Rushing into the house, he yelled out. He had been clearly frantic as he watched her face pale.

“Gem! GEM!!”

She looked up surprised by the sudden intrusion. Mumbo quickly emptied the resources into their shared resources chest. The woman opened it letting out an approving gasp. Although there had been no time for that, she needed to know before it would be too late.

“Tango is bringing a warden to the surface.”

Seeing the surprised and yet tranquil look in Gem’s eyes made Mumbo worried. He knew the others were braver than him, but they were also idiots sometimes.

“Okay. Let’s go?”

“To get help right?”

“No silly, to kill him. Or he ends the entire server, do you want that?”

Defeated Mumbo shook his head. Gem made them both diamond swords and herself an axe and Mumbo a chestplate, he gave her a confused look.

“You need that. You have a knack of dying out of stupidity.”

He flushed embarrassedly, but obeyed and put it on. They walked out Gem leading the charge as they went to Scotts area. They saw the warden near the ranch. The menacing figure towering over the players. Jimmy rushed out as Tango's mad laugh echoed through the valley.

“They will die.”

“Yep.”

Gem and Scott exchanged, as they both prepared to fight. They were joined by Smalletho and Scarian. Grian flew up shooting at the warden, Mumbo felt a pang of worry for the avian, Scott shot ice blasts slowing down the beast. Cleo stayed a safe distance lighting up the ground before the warden. Scar took full offense fighting the Warden with his cane sword. Impulse swooped down sending fire blasts at the creature.

“They are all working together. That's a first.”

Gem noted before rushing in, her hair flaming orange in the direct sunlight. She used an ice path created by Scott to get up and strike the Warden on his head. Skizz swooped in with Bdubs standing to the side shooting arrows. Tango was trying to stop them, but seeing the destruction of the ranch and Jimmy's terrified face he began burning the warden. Mumbo watched in awe, everyone was working together. Then a flash of light and Mumbo covered his ears, he knew that signal. The sonic shriek took out Skizz and Lizzie. Everyone gasped as the warden broke free, using their distraction to his advantage.

“Great.”

Mumbo watched the warden crash the ice and throw Gem off. Luckily she fell in the water. Jimmy was not as lucky, he crashed into the ranch dying and taking Tango with him. 2 deaths and 2 more red groups. Cleo retreated seeing this not a fight she could take offense in. Pearl swooped in attacking the Warden with her claws sharply cutting it, and Grian shot at him. The Warden prepared a screech aiming at Grian. Mumbo’s eyes flashed red, he would not let him die. Even if that would just take him to yellow.

He ran up to the creature jumping up on the ice that was provided by Scott, he hopped on top, grabbing the warden by the horns and slamming him into the ground. The beast growled, falling to his knees. Mumbo tried to hide his strength by using his sword to hit him on the head. However, he had never gotten used to actual weapons, so the hit was weak and he was thrown aside by the monster's big hands. Grian continued his attack, joined by the others. The beast was thrashing around and then with everyone’s work he finally went down spreading sculk on the ground. Mumbo grunted wincing in pain as Gem rushed towards him.

“Mumbo you really can’t fight.”

“Hey! I landed a hit on him.”

“Whatever helps you sleep at night.”

She helped him up as Grian and Scott decided to clean up the sculk before it spread too far. Interesting technique of Scott freezing and shattering it, while Grian’s wings shot it out the server. Getting to their base and changing their clothing they headed to the meeting, it was quiet. Scott looked down at the ground and Impulse sat quietly next to Gem. Grian’s dog ears flopped down sadly. Scar sat far from Grian engaging in conversation with Bdubs. Lizzie sat looking at everyone with a mean glare, snapping at Joel when he tried to talk to her. This was a sad evening. Everyone lost someone they cared about. Lost was the wrong word, they would meet again once they turned red themselves. Not everyone wanted to accept that they would not see their non bloodthirsty forms of their friends again.

As Mumbo and Gem made their way back to their base, Gem seemed really lost in thought and Mumbo did not respond. The Vampire had a lot on his mind without other people’s problems. He didn’t understand why Grian soul bound scar only to leave afterwards. Did the system even make sense? Was it just in Pearl's case that the insanity occurred, Martyn and Cleo seemed fine. What was this game? Something was off and he knew it started with Grian.

Chapter Text

The morning had not been kind to Scott, after getting a negligible amount of sleep, the sun woke him up. He rose and got dressed with efficiency. The same routine, he had learned the most efficient route a while ago. Walking out he saw Cleo still hadn't left her base, he sighed and sat down on the bridge fence, his eyes looking at the ranch. Somewhere within those walls were his soulbound. He could feel them through the bond. Pure anger and madness, no rational thoughts. Scott sighed as he wondered why he even decided to do this. He would never be happy, especially after what he did to Pearl. The gods cruel way of punishing him.

“BOO!”

A loud yell startled him nearly causing him to fall off the bridge. He turned hastily, his magic freezing the ground around him. Cleo stepped back raising her hands in surrender.

“Scott it is just me.”

“Oh right”

He pulled the ice back in, an embarrassed flush on his cheeks. He did not mean to overreact, he was just so focused on the ranchers. Oh how he wished he was there with them, but a green should not be around a red. He would die quicker than he could say “I love you”.

“Let’s get this over with Cleo.”

She nodded, Scott created an ice axe and slashed her torso, the groan escaping her mouth made Scott feel slightly better. Then the pain hit him, as blood gushed onto the floor he realised he was still wearing his expensive shirt. He healed himself, said his goodbyes to Cleo and went back home. Sighing about not being able to wear his fancy clothing, he wore a t-shirt with a rainbow on it, loud and proud, and blue jeans. This would have to do, the white sneakers would be the only thing that worked with his shirt. No royal status, no soulbound. He needed to talk to Pearl, perhaps she would offer some advice.

He knew this was foolish, but he did not have anyone else to talk to. Deep down Scott knew that she would most likely not engage, he had an idea. He brought her some food for a peace offering. Walking across the road, he missed the familiar clicking of his shoes, he walked past a purple haired figure.

“Oh Lizzie-”

He began before he had an axe in his space, jumping out and sending an ice beam at her. The fairy looked insane. Her eyes a blood red colour as she kicked the ground under him. Raising her axe, Scott had a second to scramble away.

“Lizzie??”

A strong gust of wind signaled Pearl's arrival, she met Lizzie face to face. Laughing maniacally as she slashed across the fairies wing, causing her to yell out in pain. Her eyes became purple.

“Pearl?”

“It had to be done fairy. Now scramble before I take the other one with me.”

Pearl spoke coldly, the pure animosity in her voice. Scott had been surprised, even towards him Pearl never displayed such distaste.

“I know what you did Lizzie. You think they care? How foolish.”

Lizzie turned on her heel and walked away, her chopped up wing bleeding heavily. The avian helped Scott get up, a wicked smirk on her face as she pulled him closer.

“What would you ever do without me Scotty”

“Thank you for helping Pearl.”

“Whatever, Pixie.”

She let him go as he brushed off the dirt, luckily he did not get hurt. Pearl's attack had been strong enough to scare the fairy away. Looking down at the ground Scott did not know how to begin this.

“The ranchers turned red.”

“Why should I care about Scott?”

He looked up, surprised by how tired she sounded. As if she did not care anymore and wanted this over with, that surprised him.

“Why should I care how you went around creating new soulmates? How many do you want? Will you go around everyone except me? Nice to rub it in. If you came here to wallow in self pity, you came to the wrong person. You broke my heart, I hope everyone breaks yours.”

Before the elf could get a word in she flew up disappearing in the clouds. Perhaps he should have expected this, but the tired tone in her voice made it all the more painful. Slowly he walked back to his base. Without realising he had been walking the way which led past the ranchers. He noticed too late, when the return would take longer. Bracing himself he walked by, his eyes glued to the floor, he could not bear this. Not right now, not like this.

“Scott..?”

Tango's voice caused him to jump, whirling around as he looked at the fire hybrid. He looked so pained, his eyes looked normal. His blue hair waved nervously.

“Hey firefly.”

Scott replied weakly, he felt sick at the thought he could die. He heard a rustle behind him, Jimmy ran towards him, his red eyes feral as he held a sword.

“Jimmy no!”

Tango yelled out, a blue circle of fire surrounded Scott, Jimmy froze away from the fire. His eyes returned to an icy blue.

“Scott!! No I am sorry, I do not know. I keep getting so enraged. I hate this. I am sorry.”

Jimmy fell to his knees, his body shaking. Tango did not lower the fire.

“He is bluffing, he tried to get Cleo that way. Do not get near him.”

“Why are you helping him,Tango?”

Jimmy's cold voice sent a shiver down Scotts spine. The avian stood up playing with his sword he pulled out, a wicked smirk on his lips. Scott felt the fire surrounding him closely. Tango's eyes a bright red as his hair raged the blue colour.

“I am so sorry…”

Scott whispered to them, but quiet enough for only himself to hear. He used his magic to summon an ice spike that propelled him into the air, he froze the fire around him and the new fire Tango blasted at him, using quick efficient attacks to freeze Jimmy. The avian hybrid could not do much. Blasting Tango back he rushed away, the cries and angry yells behind him made his heart shatter. He went straight for the secret bunker, his eyes full of tears, every single one turning into icicles and falling to the ground shattering. Just like his heart. He pulled off the earring and threw it to the ground, his whole body was shaking. That is how Cleo found him on the floor unable to move or speak.

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Gem had been bored out of her mind, sure there would be Reds out and about, but she could take all of them in a fight. Tango would be weak to water, besides Jimmy seemed useless. Ren would be an easy target if he tried to mess with her and Skizz was really bad at pvp. She knew that much, he lost to her back when she was a small kid. Pulling herself out of bed, she realised Mumbo had already disappeared, most likely mining with Scar, they had plans. This duo began to be very talkative, perhaps bonding over Grian being a cheater.

Walking through the forest she watched Scott and Pearl talk, Scott clearly looked distraught. Perhaps the Ranchers being red hurt him. Interesting, she needed to make a note of that. As Pearl launched herself into the air, Gem followed the shadow she could see in the sky. Very easy skill she learned from her dads. As Pearl landed on the ground shaking her feathers from the moist cloud atmosphere.

“Hey Pearl.”

“Well that is one way to make an interest. What do you want, Bambi?”

“Very funny, I just wanted to talk.”

Gem folded her arms waiting for the avian to respond. She did not care for the comment, the opposite, she found it quite cute.

“I do not want to talk to you.”

“Too bad.”

“You really are annoying.”

“Thank you!”

A small smirk tugged at Pearl's lips. Gem took it as a win and began walking with Pearl. They have been heading in no particular direction.

“What was that on Scotts bridge?”

“None of your business!”

“But it is my business, princess.”

“Do not call me that!”

The feathers on Pearl's ears stood up as her face flushed an angry pink. Gem took that as her sign and leaned into the avian's personal space.

“Sure darling, is that any better?”

Pearl pushed her off onto the ground, pulling out a sword and holding it to her neck.

“Do it.”

The deer hybrid smiled tilting her head. Even without the game rules, she knew Pearl would not. She hoped Pearl would not. Being red with Mumbo meant being dead first. To her relief Pearl put her sword back into the scabbard.

“You are unbelievable. Nothing better to do?”

Gem got up and brushed the dirt off her legs, the server had been full of freshly dug dirt.

“Nope my schedule is as clear as the sky.”

“Well mine is not. So excuse me I have to go.”

As Pearl walked off Gem could not help but feel her heart flutter. She was down bad, this had not been ideal. Being so hopelessly in love in a death game. One of them would have to die, Gem hoped she would die first. She would rather die than watch her friend die. They were JUST friends! Sure Gem liked Pearl, but she did not want to ruin the friendship. The flush could have been embarrassment. Nothing serious. She was overthinking it. The whole situation was unserious.

To distract herself she went caving and got a good amount of resources when she ran into Mumbo and Scar. Both had been covered in sculk and Gem sent them to shower. The sculk could get into their airwaves and infect them. Mumbo immediately agreed and dragged the complaining Scar away. Boys… She was relieved to be into girls. This would have been torture. Finding her way to the deep dark, she enchanted her diamond gear. Now nobody would see her as harmless. The glowing axe illuminated the area, the deep dark had always been unsettling. She left quickly, not wanting to summon a warden.

Getting home she made sure to wash every single bit of sculk off her body. The dust had been especially annoying settling into her hair. After leaving she changed into the clothing Mumbo made for her and braided her hair. This time into one long braid decorated with cute blue flowers. She walked towards the pool party area. This was definitely a trap, but would be fun to watch. Mumbo and Scar had already been there. So were the boatboys, Grian and most importantly Pearl. The deer hybrid did not care about any of the others. Her eyes solely focused on Pearl

The boys had been up to no good, using fishing rods to boost each other into the air and catch themselves with water buckets. Her heart sank as Pearl decided to join in, at the last second she used her wings and the water to stop herself from dying.

“Cheating!!!”

Joel yelled his ears pressed to his head as his tail was between his legs, the utter frustration evident in the man. His anger had been unbearable in this death game, it brought out the worst part of him.

“You are just mad I can fly and you are a sad loser.”

Pearl retorted, giving him the middle finger. She did not seem to care about his anger, it amused her. Gem tried to stop the blush on her face and ears, this was unbearable. How did Pearl have such an effect on her?

Joel had been hooked on the fishing rod, the man flew up into the air. Gem held her breath as the man got closer to the ground. Boom he missed the water bucket. Dead. Pearl's laugh sent a shiver down her spine, the avian looked through the stuff picking up a chestplate.

“Pearl. Put that down.”

Grian spoke up in a stern voice.

“Oh shut up. You and I both know you are a pretentious lapdog. Go sit down before I tell the others.”

The way Grains feathers stifled as he sat back down not looking up at anyone. Gem wanted to ask, but by the way the parrot avian looked, expressed way more than words.

“PEARL GIVE ME BACK MY CHESTPLATE”

Joel yelled, his eyes red as he rushed to collect his stuff. The speed at which he pulled out his axe had scared Gem, and she thought she had been efficient.

“Come and get it doggy!”

Jumping up into the air she glided through the air occasionally slipping into the run. Her laughs and giggles filled the air as the dog hybrid chased her. Resisting the urge to go chase after Pearl she walked over to Mumbo.

“You good?”

“Yeah, I am just confused. The way their eyes turn red, that is a vampire trait.”

Gem was about to reply when Grian butt into the conversation.

“Actually the creators of the game took inspiration from the vampire's blood thirst.”

“That would make sense…”

Mumbo mumbled a quiet response. He seemed lost in thought and Gem left him alone. A message through the communicator caught her eye. Pearl was dead and Scott was taken with her. Oh no Joel must have taken her out. The red bloodthirst being too much even for the Scarlet witch.

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Mumbo had been in the mines all morning with Scar, laughing and forgetting about the world. He collected a good amount of redstone, good since he was nearly out. They threw redstone at each other and made redstone angels on the floor. Everything felt great, as if this was not a death game, and they were just having fun. They found the ancient city and Scar wanted to enchant and steal the table.

“Cmon Mumbo!! Enchanter monopoly!”

“Aha so it ends like the sugar cane one? Better public use than you dead right?”

“Ugh no fun!”

The man smirked, patting Mumbo on the back. They both entered the deep dark as quietly as possible and enchanted their stuff. Each of them set off the shrieker once and ran off. They laughed loudly as they were out of reach. This felt great.

“Adrenaline high!!”

“Woooh!”

“Mumbo you are actually one hell of a man!”

“Thanks Scar, you are not so bad yourself”

Collecting more resources they ran into Gem who had full diamond gear. Mumbos eyes widened.

“How on earth?”

“I am competent, unlike some people”

“Ouch!”

“How did you take our first life again?”

“SHUT!”

Scar and Mumbo exchanged glances before bursting out laughing. They both had sculk on their hair and faces and clothing. This looked so silly. Gem sent them to shower and with her stern voice Mumbo did not feel like arguing. He dragged out a whining Scar picking him up and carrying him to their house, forcing the man to take a shower while he waited. The Vex hybrid walked out annoyed and Mumbo pulled out some clothes.

“I took your measurements when I made your leg supports. It is a small gift.”

“ANOTHER ONE?!”

The yell caught Mumbo off guard as he looked at the man embarrassed.

“I can take it back.”

“No! That is not what I meant.”

Scar sighed and sat on the floor.

“Go shower.”

Mumbo nodded and disappeared into the shower. It was refreshing to feel the water on his skin. It was comforting, changing into another suit he saw that Scar had put on the clothing and was rummaging through their fridge.

“Are you hungry?”

“Starving!”

“Sit down, I will make you something.”

“And burn down the kitchen?? I do not think so. Let us go to my house and I will feed us.”

Flushing in embarrassment, Mumbo followed Scar. He knew the guy was right, he was not really trusted in the kitchen. He could cook, he just got distracted easily. Scar seemed distant as if thinking of something.

“Why are you so nice to me?”

“Huh?”

“I took your boyfriend, I made out with him. I stole him from you. Yet you give me gifts and are so nice.”

“Why wouldn’t I be.”

“Let me finish. At first I thought you wanted me to kiss you, soulbound and all, but you ignored all my attempts. I do not get it Mumbo Jumbo.”

Full name alert, Scar was being serious. The man sighed and slowed down the pace looking at Scar.

“I will not lie and tell you I do not feel angry for what you did. I am not chuffed with the situation in general. It sickens me. However, this is a death game. There is not much to do. Rules must be obeyed Scar.”

His eyes glimmered with something, chaos, understanding, anger.

“Ew did I become a rule follower! EOUGH!”

“Well now you are a good boy~”

Mumbo teased as they continued to walk.

“Never again Mumbo Jumbo!! I am telling you! The only one who gets that title is you. You know you miss me.”

“Hmmm, nope! I am fine on my side.”

“Aha”

The friendly banter continued as they walked to the velvet keep. Scar made a wonderful breakfast and as they ate, Mumbo felt happy. Perhaps for a little while he could forget about this being a death game and just enjoy life.

Soon Scar remembered they needed to be at the fishing rod game. Rushing there, to both of their surprises they were not late. Mumbo declined partaking in the game. He had never done a water bucket clutch. Scar took off the supports and Mumbo watched in horror as he got boosted. The Vex landed the clutch without using any supports or wings.

“That was impressive wow.”

“Thank you! I am a professional at giving Grian a heart attack.”

Grian flew over cursing at Scar as the man calmly put the supports back on. He did not seem to be bothered in the slightest. Rubbing the brim of his nose he returned to his place. This was slightly entertaining. Perhaps Mumbo should take a page out of Scars book.

Gem arrived shortly after Pearl who immediately began sprouting chaos and cheating at the game. This was hopeless, especially the way Gem looked at Pearl. If Pearl did not know by now she was clueless. He whispered to Scar and immediately got a surprised text back. Mumbo sighed, perhaps everyone was just clueless or distracted.

Distracted thinking about his own thing he saw the death message. Oh no more reds Joel was down. This was bad. Very bad. As Pearl began to rummage through Joel's personal belongings Grian spoke up.

“Pearl. Put that down.”

“Oh shut up. You and I both know you are a pretentious lapdog. Go sit down before I tell the others.”

The way Grains feathers stifled as he sat back down not looking up at anyone. Mumbo wanted to comfort the man, he did not know what was up, but he did not care. As Scar placed a hand on his back he sat back down.

“PEARL GIVE ME BACK MY CHESTPLATE”

Joel's yell made Mumbo immediately recoil. His breath was shaky, he looked like he was about to have a panic attack. No not now, he retreated into his mind calming himself down, he would deal with this later, closing off his mind from the panic attack.

“Come and get it doggy!”

Pearl giggled as she flew off towards the forest, Joel rushed past him, his eyes blood red. Mumbo realised something, immediately lost in thought. Gem approached him and said something.

“Huh?”

“You good?”

“Yeah, I am just confused. The way their eyes turn red, that is a vampire trait.”

Grian joined them as he was walking towards Scar, Mumbo wondered if he knew this. Luckily he did.

“Actually the creators of the game took inspiration from the vampire's blood thirst.”

“That would make sense…”

Immediately the panic attack returned and he closed his eyes trying to shut it out for longer, he needed some time and this was not the time. The death message popped up going over his head. He was too busy. What if all of them knew? How much time did he have left? He would need to leave Hermitcraft, he could not stay there. As Gem tugged on his arm he realised he had to leave. A quick goodbye to Scar and Grian they walked back to the base. “Worthit” A simple message from Pearl. Soon there will be no greens left, especially with the scary amount of reds. Only when they reached the base did Mumbo notice how shaken Gem looked. Forgetting about his own issues he led her to the couch and rummaged through the medicine under her bed. He found a calming potion and brought it to her.

“There. Sorry I am not a medic.”

“Is fine…”

Gem mumbled. He saw that she wanted to be alone and left to walk around. He wondered if there was any point to all of this. Putting him into this game knowing well he had no chance. He had to survive and hide his human cover. Well Martyn probably had it worse, being actually a human. Poor fella.

While walking he saw another message, Impulse was dead taking Bdubs with him. This was becoming unserious. People were dropping like flies, so he decided to pay them a visit.

“Hey, are you both okay?”

“No Mumbo, we died. Use your brain.”

Bdubs muttered an annoyed look in his eyes. The glare hybrid had been annoyed as usual.

“I fell off, very stupid I know. I wanted more music discs.”

“Basically he is an idiot and now I am yellow and Ren wants my ass.”

The moss covered him further as he stomped away anger in his voice, heading towards the cottages. Most likely to meet up with Lizzie. Those two spent a lot of time together. Impulse sighed and sat down.

“Is Gem okay?”

Mumbo shrugged and then shook his head and sat down next to Impulse. He had always been bad at understanding emotions. They were weird and he had not felt anything for a while. Pain was the only feeling he could understand and yet it became nothing in the span of a few years.

“No, but I do not think it is because of Skizz. I have not seen her talk to you or Skizz. I think she has her own demons.”

“By demons you mean the demon Pearl.”

“Oh you know?”

“Skizz had a hunch and asked her.”

“Wow on point, Scar was surprised.”

“Scar is a clueless man.”

They both chuckled, it had been strangely peaceful for once, although it was quite clear it would not last. Happiness was an ever changing variable in this life, the life game. Where only one came out alive. It was cruel and yet people seemed so calm.

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Joel had been furious, being on his red life did not help his anger issues. Although this gave him the ability to talk to his wife. Walking towards her base he saw Bdubs there. Anger flaring up, he pulled out his axe. Bdubs face contorted in fear.

“I am gone!”

As he rushed away Joel felt a sense of pride. He enjoyed being scared. It made him feel important.

“Lizzie?”

The fairy stepped out leaning against the door. Joel realised she only had one wing.

“What bastard did that to you?”

“Pearl, glad you took care of her.”

“Always my love.”

Lizzie scoffed, rolling her eyes playfully. Joel knew she found him way more fun when he had been insane. The man leaned against the fence, his axe swinging with his tail.

“How about a murder spree?”

“Do not feel like it. Hop off to your fleabag puppy.”

Joel smiled and rolled his eyes walking towards her. She looked unimpressed.

“You know you love me darling.”

“Hm I am not sure about that.”

“WHAT?!”

“I am joking you idiot, of course I do.”

Breathing a sigh of relief Joel extended a hand which Lizzie happily took. Killing people was what she was meant for. She wanted Impulse, she wanted Grian and she wanted Pearl.

“How about we make this fun, who is on your bucket list puppy?”

“Scott.”

“Perfect, get him and that gets Pearl. I feel like getting Impulse. Will you help?”

Joel nodded immediately, the chance to kill Scott was a once in a lifetime opportunity. He was so pleased with making them yellow, red would be so much more fitting. They both laughed, happy to be in each other's presence. Joel noted how his wife seemed colder and meaner. It did not bother him, on the other hand he found it hot.

Lizzie dropped the nice fairy act, her cottage decorated in dark materials, a purple eye stained glass window. It looked fierce and fit for the princess of death. The cruel and fierce queen that she was. He had a feeling Lizzie had been hiding something. The way she gripped his hand a little tighter than usual and walked with an extra heel click and not with her usual bounce. The uncaring cold look. Perhaps Joel had been a fool in love that he did not notice the signs.

“How do you feel about messing with pandas, love?”

“Always. Lead the way my prince.”

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Scar had been a busy bee, Grian was talking to him on the way back, but he was not really listening. Busy day and even more busy Scar. He should run in and steal the enchanter, unlike what Mumbo said he would definitely have a great chance at a new monopoly.

“We need a protective measure, Scar. I think we need a platform above the velvet keep. We can drop tnt on people. SCAR are you even listening??”

“Hm?”

Scar was petting his pandas who had been very excited to see him again. Giving a thumbs up to Grian. The avian rolled his eyes and began building. Soon Impulse and Bdubs died.

“Another one bites the dust.”

“SCAR!”

“Okay sorry sorry! Let's work on this!”

They continued building the platform, the message through his communicator made him pause immediately. “Leaving the pandas unattended? Tsk tsk”

“Grian I will be back”

He jumped off the platform, the loud yell from Grian meant the man was cursing him for jumping. Landing a swift water bucket clutch he approached Joel. The man had been next to his pandas. He watched the burned corpses on the ground. His eyes were full of fury. He confronts Joel.

“Now that was not very nice was it?”

Joel laughed like a maniac, Scar was about to kill him with his axe, when a sword pierced him through his back. Blood spluttered from his mouth. He looked around to see who it had been. Lizzie stood looking at him. Her gaze was cold as she pulled her sword back out. He fell to the ground.

“Good Night Kitty cat.”

Scar awoke in his bed and Grian joined him a moment later.

“SCAR YOU IDIOT! I told you to wait!! Lizzie was behind! GOSH YOU ARE AN IDIOT!”

Sitting on the bed the man was shaking. He got up quickly and picked up his items checking on his pandas. The red lives were gone. He decided to leave. Ignoring Grian’s shouting and anger, he headed to the deep dark. That enchanter will be his. Good luck enchanting without paying.

In the deep dark he quickly found the enchanter and picked it up. He knew the warden had been close. Running for his life he narrowly avoided a sonic shriek. His mind racing, he could not die this way. Falling into the sculk it tried to pull him in the vines holding him down. He cut himself free with a hoe. The swift and quiet movements of his cat like paws, he climbed up the cave wall, his body shaking as he leaned against the cave. He was out. He was free. He had the enchanter! Everything went according to plan.

He left to go for the pool party, the official one for a change. He saw his friends there, although Gem had been missing. Perhaps still needing a break. All her friends lost a life today, Skizz was red. She probably needed a moment.

The pool party had been great, although he avoided the water. Being splashed at did not seem like a good idea. Mumbo most likely had the same idea. They both talked quietly while watching everyone run around. Martyn stood to the side tense and uncomfortable, Scar walked over.

“You good?”

“I can hear zombies. I do not know where.”

Scar tried to listen, but he just heard the yells and cheers of his friends. He shrugged and looked over at Martyn.

“Probably your anxiety.”

“Yeah-”

The way Mumbo looked at Martyn felt like they were exchanging a telepathic sequence. Those two seemed weird and Scar left them. They talked quietly, so quiet Scar could not hear them.

The next chain of events happened before Scar could even react. Ren appeared out of nowhere with an army of Zombies. Mumbo and Martyn vanished as if they teleported, Grian flew towards him and grabbed him upwards.

Ren rushed towards bdubs who could not react well enough in the dark and got killed. Impulse dying with him. The pool was filled with zombies as everyone ran around. He watched a weird interaction between Scott and Tango. They both combined their powers to create an ice and fire shield around Jimmy who was getting overwhelmed by zombies. Scar could not see what happened afterwards. He had been flown away by Grian and dropped off at their base.

This time Scar did not argue. He climbed to the top of the platform enjoying the night view. Wondering what the situation had been. Of course it was a trap. Why would anything be peaceful in this place? He heard the flutter of wings as Grian lay down next to him.

“Sorry for yelling. I was just annoyed.”

“Do not worry Gri, all is forgiven.”

“You okay?”

“I do not know. I kind of hoped it would be peaceful.”

“Yeah I knew it was a trap, that is why I stayed up high. The trap was definitely against Bdubs.”

“Oh yes for sure.”

“Mumbo and I talked.”

“Oh?”

Scar pretended to not notice how Grian stiffened.

“Do you not love him anymore?”

“WHAT?”

Grian sat up so quickly he nearly fell from the platform Scar catching him.

“Low Iron idiot. Take it slow.”

“M’thanks Scar”

“No problem.”

“I love Mumbo, I love him more than anything. I have never loved anyone more. I just cannot. Rules must be obeyed.”

“That's what Mumbo said…”

“Hm?”

“Oh nothing.”

Scar lay back down. He watched the Stars shoot across the sky. He wished he could stay in a moment forever. In a moment where he actually felt good about himself. A star flew by as he made that wish. A quick thought would seel his fate.

The man did not realise he had been alone until the sun slowly began to creep over the horizon. The back of his arm itching. He groaned about these horrible bugs. Scratching his hand he noticed it did not get better. Well this is a problem for future Scar, he was fine. Standing up he did not notice a vein of sculk where his arm had been.

Chapter Text

The morning sun had not fully gone up, when Pearl felt a terrible pain across her stomach and chest. It felt as if she had been slashed by an axe, the pain was sharp and even if it had been a recurring event it still hurt like hell. When the wound began to freeze over she felt truly sick. The ice covered her skin sinking into her body. The area around the scar had been long covered in frostbite. She lay in her tower unable to move and barely breathing. This was unfortunate.

This man had been brutal and hurt her, yet somehow everyone thought of her as the monster. All because her heart had been shattered into a million pieces, by a man who did not care how much he hurt her. Wouldn’t they be upset if the person who was supposed to be there no matter what due to the bond did not care? Think about the last death game, they were all so happy. Girlboss, Gaslight, Gatekeep. The good old days, it is a shame nobody remembered that time, she couldn’t even vent to Grian or Jim. Grian was basically the Watchers pet and Jim well he should not be dealing with her issues. Besides he turned red, she did not want to die because of something as foolish as a talk. The curse of being a Watcher, this never ending loneliness and being left behind.

Getting up from the ground and grabbing the axe next to her body. She had long grown accustomed to sleeping with the axe, you never know when the situation calls for an impending threat. Tilly had been sitting next to her, she immediately licked Pearl's face. The avian giggled, reaching out to pet her head.

“You are my true soulmate Tilly. You will never leave me will you?”

Petting the wolf behind her ears and across her back. Tilly had been a beautiful white wolf, with sharp fangs and smart yellow eyes. Although her question went unreplied, the presence was worth more than any words ever were. Pearl ruffled the wolves fur and scratched behind the ears.

“Such a good girl! Want to go for a walk?”

The tailwag made Pearl smile as she opened a secret door leading to the staircase. She used it to travel down with her dog. Usually she would fly down, but Tilly could not fly. Making a note to ask Mumbo to automate the stairs, so they would vanish behind her.

Pearl made her way through the forest, Tilly barking happily and jumping around. The dog was clearly happy being out the tower with her soulmate. The avian walked behind her, sometimes breaking into a run. One never changing constant had been that she hurt herself occasionally, just to feel something, bonus points if Scott felt hurt. She enjoyed his pain, knowing it is the same one that left her numb and empty.

They came to a clearing where Tilly enjoyed running around, weirdly Tilly did not run. Pearl called her over and she stood in a protective stance, covering Pearl. The confusion only intensified when Tilly began loudly barking into nothingness. The world began spinning all around her, she felt her legs give out under her as she fell to her knees. Tilly began barking louder, the sound mixing with the forest and losing itself in the process. Pearl could not hear anything, her vision blurred as she began falling.

Immediately Pearl realised what was up, she caught herself in the nothingness and landed swiftly. Her arms folded over her chest as her beautiful owl-like feathers began to turn a shade of purple. Not being impressed in the slightest she dug her talons into the surface, she would fight tooth and nail for the chance to flee. Knowing well what the Watchers did to Grian, she folded her wings closer to her body.

“There you are ̇/ᒷꖎᔑℸ ̣ ⍑”

This irritated Pearl beyond anything. The voices that were all around her, not even giving her the decency of their forms. She despised the Watchers and wished them all the worst. Ever since she escaped.

“That is not my name.”

“Oh is it not… We know you prefer your new mortal name ̇/ᒷꖎᔑℸ ̣ ⍑, but rules are rules and they must be obeyed.”

“I never obeyed your rules.”

“We know well, that is why it was so interesting to observe you. We should have guessed it had been you. Ever since you joined the death games.”

“I would not leave Jimmy alone.”

“Our beautiful ᓵᔑリᔑ∷||, he cannot leave us for long can he?”

A golden cage slowly materialised before them. It had been perfectly created for Jimmy. She knew that, she had witnessed it first hand. The Death games were the only time they let him out. Pearl hated the Watchers, hated Grian for being such a wuss, hated the death games, hated SCOTT!

“What do you want? Come to laugh at me?”

“Not at all ̇/ᒷꖎᔑℸ ̣ ⍑”

“Do not call me that.”

“As you wish ᒲ𝙹𝙹リ ᓵ⍑╎ꖎ↸”

“That is not my name- whatever. What do you want? You know I denied being one of you.”

She did not care enough for this and did not want to argue. Child of the Moon was better than her Watcher name. She had named herself after the moon, the beautiful celestial being.

“We do not ask for your return, we are more than satisfied with ̇/ᒷꖎᑑ⚍ᔑ. He learned his lesson.”

Pearl wasn’t surprised, Grian had gotten quiet. She had been surprised he was not as affectionate with his boyfriend, but perhaps that is what the Watchers meant, or the wing incident.

“Oh so going after my spineless brother, I am not surprised. I hate repeating myself. What do you want?”

“We have a preposition.”

Her winged ears pressed tightly against her head, she was annoyed and scared. Although Pearl was brave, she was also alone. Alone against gods. A silly god creation could absolutely do nothing against armies of gods.

“We will make you powerful. Strong enough that nobody can ever hurt you again.”

“No.”

“You did not let us finish, you will be free from the bond, in a way. You will still be linked, but the pain will not be shared on your side. You will be free from suffering, no pain at all.”

The silence that filled the void felt suffocating. She hated how she wanted this. She wanted revenge for the pain, but there had always been a price to pay.

“In return…”

There it was. The Watchers were powerful, but not merciful. They only did something if it could benefit or entertain them. The cruel gods, who enjoyed the death games. Of course Grian got special treatment after creating them, but they had also been his punishment.

“...you will give us what you value most.”

“I am not giving you Tilly.”

She said very sternly, her eyes flashing a dangerous glimmer. Even in the purple colour she managed to make them angry and with hints of brown.

“Oh no, we do not mean your pet. You can keep it.”

The next thought that came to mind was Jimmy. Although, they would take him either way. Cruel thought, but she knew they did not mean him. Holding her wings closer, she realised. They wanted her wings. Her beautiful feathery wings, that she used to soar through the air, the ones that bathed in sunlight. She made her decision.

“Deal. Make me stronger than anyone I have ever known, but I do not want to hear or see you ever again. You get what you want and you leave me alone.”

“So be it ᒲ𝙹𝙹リ ᓵ⍑╎ꖎ↸”

She closed her eyes as she felt magic swirl through her body as her mind shut off. The world spun around her as she fell down.

Waking up she felt the grass under her cheek, this felt real. Tillys wet tongue licking her face made her giggle as she sat up. Her wings were gone, she felt the missing area. Although she knew they would be taken, it still hurt. She curled her tail around her… Her tail?? She had a stunning wolf tail, with pretty lined fur and a mix of grey and white fur. Running her hand through her hair she realised she had matching ears.

“Tilly we are actually soulmates now!”

The dog proceeded to lick her in the nose and face as she giggled.

“Stop you goofball”

Giggling she walked to the pond, adjusting to the wolf hybrid feet. The claws felt tiny compared to her talons, the water reflected how fierce she looked. The lack of avian features brought out her sharp and cold features. She cut her hand, seeing blood drip down, she did not feel a thing. Her lips pulled into a wicked smirk. Tilly barked happily behind her. A moment later she got the death message, Tango and Jimmy out. Perhaps Jimmy had been gone long enough, the Watchers want their pet back.

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The stars hadn't even left the night sky when Scott woke up, running off to the half sleeping Cleo. He woke her up with an axe crit, immediately getting a worse one back. Cleo towered over him with anger in her features, she quickly realised it had only been Scott.

“You scared me.”

“Sorry, I needed to do something.”

“You are still wearing your clothes from yesterday. You alright?”

“Oh um, yeah! New fashion statement.”

“Sureee you never wear the same shirt twice. I saw your closet, besides you can make new clothes out of ice. Elsa and all.”

“Haha, yeah I could. Bye Cleo!”

He rushed out the door before Cleo could ask anymore questions. He needed to go and see the Ranchers. He did not care if he died, they could all be red together. Run away, ignore the rules! Be truly free. He ran into the ranch trying to find any trace of them, but they had left. Probably some red life plan. Sighing Scott sat down on the floor. He felt his hand prickle and some blood drip down. Pearl must have been hurting herself as revenge. The sun began to rise as he observed the beautiful sunset. It reminded him of his soulbound. The yellow Sun and the beautiful fiery clouds. The sunset was surrounded by a blue sky. He swore that this was the universe telling him something.

He could not find them for the longest time, it felt like time flew by so slowly as he walked around the place looking. He was ready to die, to be with his loves, to be red together, to be at peace. Right now he did not care about status, or Pearl. Nothing mattered when he was not with his soulbound. When he found his soulbound, they were plotting something in the forest. Breathing a sigh of relief he headed towards them.

“Tango, Jimmy!”

They turned to him with their normal eyes. Jimmy ran towards Scott and hugged him, this felt nice, safe. Before he felt an axe hit him. Jumping back he clutched his side quickly freezing it over with his magic. Jimmy looked manic, his eyes icy blue and yet he was going insane.

“Sorry Scott, I need to get you out. I need to do this, I am sorry.”

The man saw a tear roll down Jimmy's cheek. The icy blue eyes full of pain, the man was not affected by red life fever, why was he acting this way. Tango threw a protective fire circle around Scott and held back Jimmy.

“JIMMY! Thats Scott, control yourself, please”

“I have to do this, I have to or they will hurt me- Tango please.”

Stifling a shuddered breath Scott watched the exchange. It felt unreal, only a while ago had they been cuddling and so happy. Now the pain in Tango's eyes and the sick manic look in Jimmys. It felt like a cruel joke on him, a mean curse sent by the gods. If there were gods he hated them, the temple built to them, their sign. He hated all of that, all of them.

Jimmy was shaking, his eyes flashing from red to blue to icy blue. Tango held him close and Scott knew what he had to do, freezing a path through the fire he embraced Jim and Tango closed the hug. He felt Jimmy's tears soak his shirt. The avian was crying, so much pain and so much unfairness. Scott knew how he felt, on another level, he knew how it felt. He knew rules were only there to prevent harm, but they all needed a reason. The elf would never follow rules that made no sense. Jimmy was the same, even back in Empires he had never been a rule stickler.

“Jimmy, I do not care. Take me out. I will be red with you! I want to be with you. I cannot handle the pain of being alone. I would do anything.”

“Scott no!”

Tango's voice sounded desperate, hints of pain and tears in it. Scott looked up smiling.

“It's okay Tango. I want this.”

The hybrid looked like he would argue, but let go walking away. He would not hurt him or even think about doing so, especially out of the red rage. Jimmy shook his head, his eyes staring through Scott, tears streaking down his face.

“I do not have much time left. I am sorry Scott.”

A shiver ran down Scotts spine, he shook his head hugging Jimmy tightly. He did not hug back. His eyes focused elsewhere, turning a shade of purple. Tango looked so confused, he spoke unsurely.

“What do you mean Jimmy?”

The man did not respond and he let go of Scott. His eyes a bright purple, he did not look like Jimmy anymore.

“Go home Tango.”

Tango nodded and as if manipulated began to head off to the Ranch. The man looked slightly hurt as he walked past Scott, he tried to reach out, but immediately got burnt. Pulling back he watched Jimmy. His eyes were purple as he made eye contact with an enderman. The creature roared its hand around Jimmy's throat. The avian's eyes turned blue again, panicked and he tried to fight back. When it got to the end of his eyes barely open, he turned to Scott.

“Thank you…”

He choked out before disappearing into nothingness, taking Tango with him. Scott fell to his knees. Tears streamed down Scotts face as they landed on the floor mixing with blood. His hand had been bleeding yet he did not care. The communicator beeped as messages streamed through. Scott knelt on the floor,not able to talk or breathe. His soulbound features slowly left him as his hair and eyes went back to normal. He watched his reflection in the little pool of water, while the water slowly turned red from the blood. He was alone. Truly alone.

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The darkness enveloped the avian, his wings yellow as ever held close to his body, he shivered the cold had always followed this area. Walking slowly through the darkness he wondered if he would ever be free. If he could ever go where the players do. Wondering if this was the curse of being a watcher’s favourite toy. He had been glad Pearl and Jimmy saw him as their younger brother. Sadly the Watchers did not see the same.

A dark hand reached from the darkness levitating him in the air. The cold feeling only grew as a golden cage materialised keeping him in there. There was no chance of escape, no door or any chance to squeeze past the bars. Just acceptance of his fate. The dark void around him and the occasional Watcher as company.

They found him entertaining. The thrill of letting him go, only for a bit. Freedom for hope and then it got ripped away from him. Scott, oh how he missed him. He wished more than anything to be in his arms. He saw the images surrounding him, the screens of all his friends, a watchful eye following them invisible for anyone except Grian.

Seeing Scotts screen he wanted to yell, but the scream was trapped in his throat. The man’s soulbound features slowly slipped away from him, leaving him cold like the royal king he was. The tears freezing over falling into the bloody pond. This had been painful, he could not do anything. Tango's screen was black, indicating the death of a century.

“I hate all of you”

He whispered into the void. The hatred only made him feel colder as the hand retreated. He felt so broken, a husk off himself. The little pet of the Watchers. A crowd of voices rang all around him, the weight on his shoulders unbearable as it crowded all around him. A sick and twisted feeling.

“Welcome back ᓵᔑリᔑ∷||”

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It had been a great day, the sun was mild and the clouds greeted him with a soft wind, Mumbo had been up all morning, tinkering away with his redstone. The lack of bright sun made him able to work outside. Gem had popped out very sleepy watching him work. It had been pretty early in the morning. Truly a weird sight.

“Go to bed you weirdo, or shut up.”

“Yep, sorry Gem. I will keep it down.”

Muttering something under her breath, she stepped away going back to the house and probably to her room. The tired deer hybrid had been busy and overworked. She deserved at least a break, especially after the panic attack she experienced recently. Continuing to work on his project he felt very light and happy, nothing could go wrong today.

By the time Gem fully awoke he had been done working and greeted her with tea. She immediately declined his breakfast and made her own. Rolling his eyes he ate his own burnt pancakes, gosh darn his cooking was not that bad! Especially if you liked the taste of charcoal.

“So any plans for today.”

He asked, still fed up with her dislike of his food. Although he knew she cooked much better than him, so he really was not surprised. Before she could reply, she fell to the ground. Her eyes wide and slowly turn purple. Mumbo shook her his eyes wide in fear.

“GEM GEM GEM?”

After not getting a reply he realised she was dying, blood seeped from her nose and eyes. To his utter surprise he was fine, only Gem was hurt. What was this tomfoolery? He tried to shake her, tried to tell her it was not funny. Gem was dying as her skin turned white from lack of blood. The worst part was Mumbo's eyes turned red from the blood. He wanted to bite in and enjoy, he hated this, the insatiable hunger. He felt his fangs leak venom. The Vampire venom that immobilized the opponent. Pulling himself back he tried to think.

“Mumbo us your brain, what would save her from death… RIGHT!”

A stupid idea came to mind, it was truly a stupid idea, but it was the only thing he had. The only possibility that came to his stupid brain. He leaned in his fangs dripping onto the floor he brushed the hair off of Gems face. Here goes nothing, he kissed the woman on the floor. He hoped his Vampire side would hand over to Gem, a dead being unable to die twice. He felt his ears fluff up and elongate as horns grew on his head. This was unbearably uncomfortable, but whatever would save Gem. The woman’s eyes turned red for a moment she mouthed.

“Cold…”

Mumbo picked her up and brought her to her bed, putting on a wooly jumper on her shivering body. She was not bleeding, but she was so weak. He covered her in both their blankets. He still felt fine, he did not know what was up. Mumbos top priority was Gem. Not because of the soulmates or soulbound, he couldn't care less about himself. He was worried because he was her friend, anything for his friends.

After seeing Gem's nose begin bleeding again, he knew he only had one choice. It was cruel and inhumane, but Gem will die if he does not act quick. She was so weak, not talking, her eyes closing by the second. He flew out of the house, speeding through as fast as he could without being suspicious. He waved hello to Impulse, his eyes focusing on the cottage. Flying in he held himself on the wall to not trip.

“SKIZZ?”

“Mumbo what's wrong?”

The angel walked out looking surprised to see Mumbo in such a state. The bloodcurse had not had an effect on him, this was nice. A quiet place of thought, it would end so soon. He was so sorry for what he was about to do.

“Sit.”

Mumbo commanded, his eyes glowing red, the command clear as day. Skizz sat down immediately, compelled by the Vampire powers.

“Do not shout, scream or make any noise.”

The next sequence of events happened too quick for even Mumbo to understand. He bit Skizz’s neck, the golden blood gushing into his mouth as he sucked down every piece. He closed his eyes feeling through the soulbind. With every gulp he felt Gem get stronger. It will be okay, he just needed to finish this. When he felt Gem get back to normal, Skizz had been on the verge of death.

The next message that followed was Tango and Jimmy going out, killed by an enderman. Mumbo did not pay them much attention, Gem was first. Looking down at Skizz who was barely sitting up, very pale. Clinical condition, he would not survive.

“I am sorry Skizz.”

He pulled out a sword and impaled the man. The chat message immediately popped up. Skizzleman was slain by MumboJumbo, Lizzie vanished with him. The messages flew in asking what happened, he popped up the communicator. ‘Self defence’. Then he shut off the communicator and went into the cottage.

The image in the mirror made him sick. Golden blood dripping down his chin, his eyes a wild red. He sighed and washed the blood off, looking back up he noticed he had white freckles on his face and cute little deer ears and horns. This was definitely Gem soulbind doing. He needed to get back to Gem and check on her. He could feel she was away, but the fear from seeing her that way was prevalent.

As he walked past Impulse’s house, he looked down at the ground. He did not have the heart to talk to the demon, especially after killing his husband. Finding his way back to Gem, he saw her shaking while drinking tea. She looked absolutely fine. Then it hit him, she had his vampire side.

“Gem I am so sorry-”

“I saw the message… It is fine-”

He knew she was lying, the way her ears pressed to her head. She observed his features.

“Wait, you kissed me? Why?”

“This will be a long explanation.”

After explaining the series of events and following the information with the fact he was a Vampire. Gem watched him quietly.

“So you killed my pa. To save me?”

“I am sorry Gem.”

“Get out.”

“Not until I do this.”

He bit into his hand and let Gem drink from it. He was going to make her only able to drink Vampire blood. The only way to do that is make her have Vampire blood as her first meal in the transformation. He would rather have her drink from him than in a fit of hunger kill a friend. He wished she would kill him, but he would never act on it himself.

“I am sorry Gem.”

“GET OUT!”

She yelled tears sliding down her face, she was hurt and needed time alone. Mumbo nodded and left through the door. He knew he was a bad person, he hurt Gem and killed her dad. He should not be alive. The hurt on Gem’s face and the pained look from Skizz. It was enough for him. He needed a secluded area. Sitting down on the floor away from everyone and watching the situation unfold, he saw a lot of people wondering about. He was a monster, a freak. He deserved death, he should have died instead of Gem. Perhaps she would let him die and not live with this guilt. The gnawing feeling returned, eating through his skin and bones.

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Martyn never wanted to intervene, unlike the Watchers, he stayed back. Listening and gaining information on everyone. He knew Grian was the game organiser, he knew Pearl rebelled against the watchers. He knew Jimmy was cursed. It was all part of the games. A way to make them more entertaining. It was a shame the regular players forgot. He sighed remembering his relationship with Mumbo. It was truly beautiful. Well no time to dwell on that. In the distance he heard Gem's argument. Well this was all far away, Martyn just found it interesting. Right after Skizz died. So Mumbo told her, well this must have been a fun talk.

Lazily getting up he walked towards Mumbo. You would think being able to hear everyone's business would be fun, but it got boring quickly. The same situation over and over again. What a bore. Heartbreak and violence. Although, he did enjoy the peaceful talks. It reminded him of home. Maybe he could go back there one day. He would hate to leave Ren and Doc, but he missed his home. He felt even more homesick whenever he was forced to be in the games. The Watchers knew or at least suspected him. They had no proof and Martyn hid the fact he remembered well.

While thinking to himself he did not realise he walked up to Mumbo. Well this will be awkward. Clearing his throat to get the Vampires attention. Mumbo did not look up, well of course he could hear him from quite far away.

“Hey Mumbo, are you good? I was just passing by and saw you.”

“Bad timing Martyn, maybe later?”

The man's voice was hoarse and lacked any emotion. He was numb and shut away from the world. Oh no you don’t, Martyn thought. Last thing he needed is a Vampire with turned off emotions.

“I am going to be real with you Mumbo. If you do not allow people to help you, you will not get help. You need my help mate.”

Mumbo looked up at him, the dark and tired eyes. All signs of a Vampire on the verge of giving up control.

“You cannot help me Martyn, I am too far gone.”

The Listener scoffed. Taking a step forward he slapped Mumbo full force. His lips turned up into a smile as he saw the surprise and anger in Mumbo's eyes. There! Crisis averted. Martyn saves the day.

“Hey?! What was that for?!”

“To get you out of whatever that was.”

“There were definitely better ways to do that.”

“Nope!”

He had been very proud of himself, especially seeing a small smile on Mumbo's face.

“Let us go for a walk? Clear your head a little.”

He offered Mumbo a hand, the taller man hesitated. The hesitation was small and yet it decided everything. Mumbo took his hand and Martyn helped him up.

“There we go! Aha?”

"aha...?"

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The watchers have never been kind people. They were gods, why should any of them care about the players. There were specific rules. Rules set so the games would be more fun. Rules that broke everyone. Sometimes he wished he could forget. He wished he would be a player. Unknowingly make the same mistakes and forget the next game. Yet here he was, the organiser of these games. Forced to see everyone he loves die. He thought it would end one day and it never did. It never did. An endless cycle of life and death. No escape, not for him. He was not like Pearl. She was right. He was a rule follower. Their dog. He would not dare disobey. He tried. Originally, when he realised the death games included his friends. The Watchers ripped his wings clean off. He never dared to disobey again. Pearl called him a coward. Jimmy did not want to look at him. He could not talk to his friends, they would not understand. They would never remember. He was alone. Alone with this burden to bear. Maybe if he wasn’t so different, he would be happy?

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There had never been a time where Scar had not been reckless. I mean he was never a rule abider. Rules were there to be broken! I mean what other possible explanation is there? I mean rules are for Mumbo! He was always a good boy, listening to- Okay Scar we are leaving that train of thought now.

“HEllo Mumbo and Martyn! Isn’t the weather aMAZing?”

He giggled proud of himself. To his surprise Martyn shook his head giving him a warning glare. Mumbo did not turn around. Okay bad day. I mean two people out. Well what fun would it be if everyone survived??? I mean death game, not alive game. He wandered around the place, his hands were so itchy. What on earth did he eat? Ugh if this was another new allergy. He had enough issues to deal with. His head hurt as well, it felt like his skull was splitting. UgH!!!! Walking along the path he did not even know where he was walking, it had all become a blurr. A blur of feeling and pain. He had been close to Scotts base, oh the man was probably there. Crying over his soulbound. He giggled at the thought.

“Ayyy Scott?”

No reply. Did everyone just vanish?! What is this?? No one anywhere. Maybe Cleo was home, he longed for communication.

“Cleooooo”

No answer. Perhaps he needed to come closer. I mean her hearing issues were not a surprise.
He walked towards her base, thinking he would have a nice chat, he kept calling out her name. Then boom. He yelled out in pain, ah. He woke up in his bed. The itching and pain were gone, but he died. Oh no, Grian will be mad. Just on cue.

“SCAR?! WATCH WHERE YOU GO!! You killed us again! Both times because you do not listen to a word I am saying… blah blah blah blah”

Scar had learned to tune him out a while ago. He was rummaging through his chest looking for something. He was furious and red. No rules to hold him back. If he dies he would leave an impact. One nobody can ignore.

“Scar, are you even listening to me?”

There. He grabbed the flint and steel as well as a lava bucket. Turning towards Grian and closing the chest.

“Of course I am, " you said: “Scar you killed us again, blah blah blah” “See I pay attention.”

“SCAR!”

“Can't hear you G!”

He yelled out sprinting out of the house. He broke into a run. It has been a while since he could actually run. All thanks to Mumbos leg supports. So freeing as wind rustled through his hair. His tail swishing behind him. It reminded him of the time he could fly. He smiled as he sneaked to the Relation. Flick, Flick, Flick. And it was burning. How beautiful. The fire licked at the wood. It would go up in flames in no time. He smiled, a wicked and cruel smirk. Mission accomplished.

“ETHO!”

“JOEL!”

Just on time. Scar snuck away, he was not done. He needed everything gone. Everyone will suffer. He needed everyone to know he was now on a rampage. He will hurt everyone and anyone who stands in his way. He poured lava on the Ranch. Setting anything flammable on fire. Murdering any creature left. Oh the blood thirst will never be quenched. ARSON!!! Truly a beautiful sight.

Walking towards Cleos base. That base that killed him. To his surprise where he died, the skulk spread. Oh damn. He was infected! Lucky he died then. He should be better with checking for infection. Oh well. He set the house on fire. The skulk will burn with it. Nothing will survive his anger. Click, Click. The bridge caught fire. This was beautiful. He walked towards the cottages and boom. Everything is on fire. I mean people should stop building out of wood. It was just too easy.

A message beeped on his communicator: “meet me at the box”. Hm he wondered what Grian had in mind. This better be worth his time.

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Scott had been shaken to his senses by Cleo. She had been very worried, he was unresponsive.

“Oh thank god! I thought you died!”

“Cleo if I died, there would have been a death message.”

“YEAH WELL!”

“I get it, thank you for the worry.”

“Skizz and Liz are out and I think we need to regroup. Too many reds.”

The elf sighed. Great teaming up with Pearl. That is obviously what he needed right now. More stuff to worry about and more people to see him like this.

“She is right.”

Martyn and Mumbo stood together. Mumbo seemed to be distant as he just offered a polite nod to Cleo and Scott. His deer ears twitching.

“Oh you and Gem uh.”

Cleo pointed at the deer features and Mumbo nodded.

“Better for protection. So we can sense each other.

“Cleo shall we?”

Martyn smirked, clearly teasing Cleo. She flipped him off and began arguing. Children. Scott joined Mumbo observing the situation. When it began getting aggressive, Scott stamped his foot, the ice forcing the two to slide away.

“Stop acting like children. I agree with Cleo. We need a bigger group. We need to get together. I am suggesting an alliance. Martyn, Mumbo, Gem, Cleo and I. I hate to admit this, but we also need Pearl.”

Cleo and Martyn nodded. Mumbo stood awkwardly to the side, not saying anything. Scott paid him no attention. The man was always quiet. Unnervingly quiet, he stood still and even with his height felt invisible. Well no need to dwell on that, no need to dwell on anything. Scott let a mask of cold indifference slip over his features. His actions were cold.

“Let’s go. We do not have all day.”

He walked out, his heels clicking on the ground. An ice cape swinging behind him, he did not care. His mind was cold and his actions colder. They walked till the tower, Martyn and Cleo bickering as always. Those two were such siblings. Mumbo walked to the side, but if he did not want to talk, Scott would not push.

“Pearl?”

He called out, getting no response he sighed an ice beam sending him upwards. He will not be using the stairs. Pearl sat on her chest petting a wolf. Tilly if he recalled correctly.

“We came here to negotiate. Where are your wings?”

“I do not negotiate with Pixies.”

“Well perhaps the others will change your mind.”

Before Pearl could question him, Martyn, Cleo and Mumbo appeared. Cleo looked frustrated as Martyn leaned against the chests, dramatic as always.

“Why did you make us walk up the staiiiiirs?”

Martyn whined, Cleo rolled her eyes. The gleam in her eyes evident that she was not afraid to rip him apart. Pearl turned to look at them and Scotts cold demeanor immediately disappeared. She had wolf features, all her avian ones gone. Her eyes feral and cold, she looked like a real shewolf.

“Pearl, are you a fury? I mean nothing wrong with that, I just did not expect-”

“I am not a fury Cleo.”

“Aha, but you have ears and a tail”

“Cleo, before you offend anyone else, I found my true soulmate, Tilly. I do not need Scott anymore.”

Martyn spoke up, confusion and disgust in his voice.

“You kissed the dog?”

Both Pearl and Scott facepalmed. Gosh no wonder those two were bonded, they shared one brain cell. Scott decided to intervene before he lost anything else.

“Martyn, please. It does not matter now. I know you hate me Pearl, so as a peace offering, take this.”

In his cloak he hid a small wolf pup. He had found it a while back, but did not know how to create a peaceful environment for Pearl and him. Her anger subsided slightly. She reached out taking the pup so carefully as if it was made out of precious materials or glass. Scott watched her eyes light up with excitement and happiness. Perhaps if he were a little more patient he could have made her eyes light up this way more often. If they remained friends, if he did not mess up.

“Uh thanks Scott. Now what do you want?”

“We need an alliance, there are too many reds. So our group decided to make an alliance.”

“Yeah as if , Mumbo is not even with his soulmate. Soulbound… congrats.”

She spat the last words, a cold and uncaring look in her eyes. It was the same one she gave Cleo and him when they met after the “break up”.

“Gem will be part of this as well.”

Mumbo’s quiet voice made everyone turn their heads. He did not talk much and clearly had gotten embarrassed by the attention as he averted his gaze.

“Hm, well numbers are good. So I think I will take you up on the offer.”

Pearl said the sudden change was surprising. Perhaps the wolf pup was a good bribe. This was great, the dream team. Well if by dream you mean the most toxic collection of individuals. Scott knew this would end badly, but whatever. A death game is a death game. At least now he knew not to get attached. Keep it neutral, like he did with Cleo. It would always be better that way.He did not bat an eye when Ren and Bigb died. He was too distracted. His mind elsewhere as his teammates gasped and talked among themselves. Everything around him was a blur, if only it had been different.