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Chapter Text

All eyes were on Philza the moment the war between Manberg and Pogtopia broke out. As the commander of the army, people looked up to him, depended on him to shield them. He vowed to protect his nation, no matter the cost. He never thought the cost would be this high.

At the base camp on the outskirts of Pogtopia, Philza was planning the army's next move. His eyes were glued to the screen, ears perked up for any new information that came in. His impeccable strategies ended battles before they began, as if calling Death herself to raze the battlefield: swift, silent, and painless. It earned him the title "Angel of Death". But he did not like the title being given for that reason.

The war had been going on for 7 months now. 7 months of death and destruction on both sides. So much needless pain and suffering. Countless lives lost because politicians couldn't settle their differences with civility.

Fuck that Jschlatt. Philza cursed mentally. He only wanted the war to end at this point. And thank gods, today may be the day.

The Manberg army had finally surrounded the capital of Pogtopia. A peace treaty was currently being negotiated by his closest friend, and top general, Technoblade.

"Philza, come in." A staticky voice came from the communications.

"Techno! What's your status?"

"Currently waiting on President Soot to come to a decision. He seemed quite shocked by your demands."

"How so?"

"Well...he expected much less leniency. In exchange for complete surrender and loyalty from Pogtopia, Manberg would provide all essential resources and support for reconstruction, and address the food and water shortage by providing necessary technology, while planning for future trade between nations. Sounds like a deal too good to be true."

Philza sighed, remorse in his tone. "It's the least we could do. I doubt Soot would want to see his people suffer any longer, and neither do I."

"You're too good for this world, you know that? Softza."

"Techno, keep it professional on the channels..."

He couldn't see it, but Techno knew Phil was smiling. Still, there was an air of caution in his tone. "Sure, sure, Commander Craft. But...are you sure Schlatt is fine with this? Doesn't seem like him to settle for peace."

"I got through to him. Convinced him to accept my treaty proposal. He even gave us the supplies to begin laying the groundwork for the water filtration, remember?"

"Right, those pipes you had us lay in the sewers. Though something still seems off. But I can't quite place what."

"Well, just stay on high alert. You're still technically in enemy territory. I'm sure it's nothing 'The Blade' and his squad can't handle."

"And if it came to it, I'm sure the 'Angel of Death' would figure a way to rescue us."

Soft chuckles could be heard from both ends.

"You know I hate that nickname. We sound like edgy teenagers...and you know I've always been a pacifist."

"A pacifist army commander? That's a funny joke."

"A pacifist that could still whoop anyone's ass, including yours."

"Now look who's being unprofessional?"

Even more laughing. Leave it to two high-ranking officials, being best friends, to find the light in the dark.

After a short pause, Philza could hear Techno take a deep breath. "Soot's calling us in. Report back soon Phil. It's finally time to end this."

And the coms shut off with a beep.

Technoblade had always followed orders. That was what good soldiers did. And it was what the voices demanded from him. Lately though, the calls for blood seemed to be drowned out by a singular voice that sounded suspiciously like Philza, who kept asking if his orders were always right. But it was going so well, so maybe he was just paranoid.

President Wilbur was shocked, but grateful for the terms. They greatly benefited his nation and people, and being part of Manberg wouldn't be the end of the world. The document was signed, and cheers erupted in the conference room. All Techno had to do now was return the document back to Philza, and the war would be officially over.

It was perfect.

Too perfect.

A deafening boom erupted through the capital, the vibrations shaking every wall in the building. Everybody in the room was thrown onto the ground, save for Techno.

"What's going on?"

"It sounded like an explosion!"

"From where?"

Panicked voices echoed through the room, barely audible over the explosions.

Techno knew it. It WAS too good to be true. Schlatt would never willingly do anything that wouldn't give him more power or control. He must've done something, but what?

"That doesn't matter—we need to move, now!" Techno ordered.

"You...you did this didn't you?" Wilbur accused.

"I knew it. You guys never wanted peace to begin with. This was all part of your plan, to kill us all!" He held the hilt of his blade, preparing to strike.

"No, it's not! Why would I be caught in it if I was a part of it? And we don't have time to argue, we all need to leave-"

Techno reached out to the ones closest to him, being Wilbur and his secretary, to try and pull them to safety. But before he could do anything, the roof came crumbling down. He instinctively leaped away, throwing himself out the door. He turned to look back, but it was too late for everyone else. The entire west side of the building had collapsed. Anyone in that section...their chances of surviving would be next to nothing.

He had a clear view of Pogtopia now through the large gaping hole. The city was engulfed in flames, explosions bursting up from the ground.

The dots connected in his head. The pipes he helped lay throughout the sewers...the ones Schlatt gave. Those weren't to help—they were explosives.

He slammed his hand on the nearby pillar, cracking it in fury. A guttural scream from his throat. His entire squad, dead. President Soot, dead. Any chance for peace, dead. The voices reveled in his rage and death surrounding him, but no. Not now. He can't let emotion control him. There will be time to mourn later. He had to save whoever he could.

He ran through the halls, dodging fallen obstacles, searching for the closest exit while simultaneously opening doors to find survivors. He reached a large, blue door that seemed promising, and he burst through. It was not an exit, but he did find someone. In the corner, there was a small child with blond hair, wearing a red and white t-shirt and jeans. He was crouched down, hands covering his head and tears streaming down his face.

"Who are you? What's going on?"

"Hey, kid, don't worry. I'm here to help." Techno crouched down to the child's level, placing a hand on his shoulder.

"You're the big fighter that came with big brother Wilby! Where's...where's Wilby?"

Oh no. No, no, no. Techno thought back when Wilbur mentioned his sibling, Tommy Soot. This was him. The fondness he spoke of his little brother with, how he was the only one left to care for him...if Techno wasn't already racked with guilt, he was now. He can't tell him. Not yet.

"He's...busy! Uh, he sent me to come get you! Tommy, right? My name's Techno. Come on, I'll take you somewhere safe, it's dangerous here!"

Techno extended his hands, and Tommy crawled into his embrace. He clung to him without hesitation—small, shaking, and heartbreakingly trusting.

Techno carried Tommy in one arm, sprinting away from danger and avoiding falling debris, smashing through obstacles using his shield and superior Piglin strength. This child was no more than 7, and he's already been forced to go through such trauma. He always knew this war was wrong, but now it truly made him realize.

Manberg was the villain. And he was the weapon.

Moments ago...

The ground shook beneath Philza, grabbing onto a nearby table to support himself. He heard frantic screams from outside the tent. Were they under attack? What about the peace treaty? Did something go wrong? Thoughts raced through his mind while he ran outside. One of the soldiers running by saw Philza, and immediately stopped to address him.

"Commander! It's Pogtopia!" It was Lieutenant Sapnap, one of Techno's friends.

Philza turned to look in the direction of the capital, letting out a soft gasp as he saw massive plumes of smoke rising to the sky. "

"Lieutenant, status report, now!"

"Yes sir! Explosions seemed to have been set off from within the capital. The source seems to be unknown. None of our troops were engaged in battle since the ceasefire was called, so it wasn't us."

"Mobilize all available troops to assist Pogtopia in search and rescue, and set up emergency shelters and medical tents."

"But sir, they're-"

"Did I stutter? Those aren't enemies, they're innocent civilians. And they are in danger, we're not just going to stand by and let them die. Go. Now."

With a quick salute, Sapnap went to give the orders. Philza returned to the tent and swiped on the screen to access communications to give orders, but he got a sudden call. He picked up, and was face-to-face with the Manberg president, Jschlatt. He wasn't much of a president though. More of a tyrant.

"Commander Craft."

"President. Apologies, but I am quite busy right now. There's an emergency." Philza said with urgency, false sincerity in his tone.

"I know, I started it anyways." Schlatt had a devilish grin on his face.

Philza froze. "What?"

Schlatt chuckled, which turned into full-on cackling. "Did you really think I was just going to settle for peace with those bastards? There was only one ending to this war, destruction for them, and victory for us! So I blew them up!"

"But, the peace treaty! We were...so close!"

"Oh Philza, you may be a genius on the battlefield, but you're next to nothing in the field of politics. Pogtopia is weak. But their ideas of 'freedom' and 'liberty' have attracted a large population, and, a wide variety of hybrids. Imagine what we could do with that kind of manpower."

"They'll never follow you after what you've done."

"Oh they won't know that. What they will know though, when the papers are published, is that President Soot went insane and tried to take the capital out in a blaze of glory. And fortunately, the nearby Manberg army heroically saved everyone they could," Schlatt said with heavy sarcasm.

"Quite the tale I've spun, don't you think? We'll be their heroes. More so, you, Philza. You'll swoop down and save them like you always do for 'poor civilians'. And who doesn't like to follow a hero? The best part is, they'll never know it was you who brought this onto them!"

"What...do you mean?"

"You did this! Your proposal and ceasefire, though stupid, gave us a very good opportunity to infiltrate Pogtopia. The 'pipes' I gave you to lay in their infrastructure weren't to help. They're bombs! And you personally ordered your general to plant them without even needing me to sneak them in!"

Philza looked horrified. He did this. He caused this. He killed them. He ruined all chance for peace.

"Now, be a good little bird and go in there, act all righteous, and save some people. I still want them to work for me!"

Philza's eyes lit up. Hope and defiance burned through the guilt. "There's one major flaw with your plan Schlatt."

"Yes?" Schlatt raised an eyebrow.

"It rides on my obedience."

Schlatt fell silent, his smile faltered slightly.

"You miscalculated."

Philza punched the screen, shattering it, cutting off contact between him and Schlatt.

He grabbed his walkie, trying to reach Techno

"Techno, come in!"

No response.

"General Technoblade, come in!"

Static.

"Dammit. Hang in there mate, I'm coming."

He grabbed an earpiece and his tablet, bursting out of the tent and spreading his jet-black wings, taking flight. Another reason why he was called the 'Angel of Death'. Despite Jschlatt's scheme, he couldn't just sit idly by. He can't undo what he's done, but he can still help. He flew full speed toward Pogtopia while he watched vehicles move out.

It was so much worse than he thought. The city, barely looking like one, was in ruins. From above, the city was unrecognizable—smoke and fire erased its shape. Philza directed his men through the wreckage below, wings beating against the flames as he fought to save what little remained, frantically searching for a familiar trace of pink and red.

Screaming.

He heard screaming.

Philza's eyes darted towards the sound, and he saw a small child floating onto a large wooden plank in the middle of a river that ran through the city. He was doing everything he could to keep water off himself.

Philza swooped down. His protective instincts screaming at him. The child had a peculiar complexion-half black, half white face. A long, lanky body, eyes of differing color, with a long, thin tail. All signs pointed to the child being a hybrid with Enderman origins. If he fell into the water...

Philza scooped the child up, who screamed at the sudden loss of footing.

"Ahh!"

"It's okay! I'm here to help. I'll take you somewhere safe."

"Flying! So high up!" The child flailed, panicking. His breathing becoming rapid.

Philza placed a hand on the boy's head, gently turning it to him. "Hey, shh, just look at me. Focus on me. You're okay."

Philza smiled at the child warmly, like a father comforting their child after a nightmare. Slowly, he calmed down and clung tightly to the Elytrian.

The two eventually reached a medical tent set up by the Manberg army, he gently plopped the child down onto a bed, before kneeling down to meet the boy's eyes.

"Hey, do you mind telling me your name?"

"R...Ranboo."

"Hello Ranboo, I'm Philza. Would you mind telling me what happened? How did you end up in that river? Where are your parents?"

"Big...boom. Daddy teleported me and mommy away, but another boom made us fall into the river. It...hurt...so much! I...closed my eyes to try to make it go away...but mommy was gone when I opened them and I was on that board..."

Philza winced. A child should never have to go through this. And he brought this on him. Ranboo's parents...were likely dead. Even indirectly, he was involved. He killed them, and his heart ached in pain. The guilt threatened to swallow him whole. But he can't tell Ranboo that. Not yet. He can hate himself later. There was still more he could do to help. 

"Where are you going Mister Philza?"

"I have to go help anyone I can. And there's someone I need to find. I'll try and look for your parents as well, Ranboo. Be good boy and wait here, okay? These people will tend to your injuries. I'll be back soon, I promise." Philza gently pat the other's head.

With that, Philza stepped outside and flew off again.

Techno burst through the door of city hall just in the nick of time. He held Tommy against him, shielding him from the dust. Thankfully, he managed to evacuate everyone still in the building before it collapsed. He let Tommy back on the ground gently, who looked terrified.

"What happened to Pogtopia? Wasn't Wilbur protecting it?" Tommy looked in horror at the city in flames, the panicking of the people.

"He...he did. He did his best, but a really bad man tricked him and caused all this..."

I caused this. Techno screamed internally. The voices mocked him for feeling remorse. Calling him "softnoblade". Saying he should be proud of all the blood spilled.

"Where is he now?"

Techno's mouth dried up. In all the battles he'd been in, nothing compared to the dread he was feeling right now. He couldn't find the words to tell a child that he watched his last surviving family die right in front of his eyes, that it was his fault his older brother was dead. 

Techno struggled to face Tommy, but pushed through. "Tommy, Wilbur is..."

"Techno!"

A voice from above caught their attention, snapping up to look. It was Philza! He landed in front of the two, before running over to pull Techno into a tight embrace.

"Thank gods you're alright mate!"

"Phil...can't breathe."

"Sorry, sorry. I just was so worried," Philza backed away, then turned to Tommy. "Who's this little guy?"

"H...hi! I'm Tommy! Your wings are very cool!"

"Thank you but...are you okay? You're hurt." Philza gently wiped at the blood on Tommy's face with a napkin.

"Yeah I'm totally fine! I'm a big man! It's what Wilbur said I am!" He forced a smile, but was clearly shaken up by the whole ordeal.

"You're...you're Wilbur's little brother! Don't worry, we're here to help Pogtopia deal with this entire situation. There are emergency camps set out throughout the city. Let's take you to one, yeah?" The small child nodded at that suggestion.

"Techno, where's President Soot? I need to find some way to explain this whole situation with him...and he must be worried sick about Tommy here."

Techno looked grimly and shook his head. Philza instantly knew what he meant, shock briefly flashing across his face before masking it.

"Tommy, can you walk fine? Or would you like one of us to carry you?" Techno asked.

Tommy nodded his head, reaching his arms out to Techno, who gladly picked him up and wrapped his arms around him tightly, hoping to give Tommy any semblance of comfort in this hellscape.

The three walked through the streets. If it weren't for the destruction, it'd almost look like a lovely family out for a stroll. But that would never happen, could it? Philza and Techno could never go back to who they were. In the war, they only spilled blood when necessary, never taking more than needed. Now, they killed hundreds, if not thousands of innocents. Tommy was orphaned, his life forever changed. And Ranboo was likely in a similar situation. How would the two men break the news to them? The fact that they played a part in destroying their families? And yet, they were the ones who saved their lives.

How twisted fate was.

Chapter Text

Someone's...singing? Tommy thought.

He turned to the source of the sound, and saw...Wilbur! He was sitting on the floor, guitar in hand, strumming a gentle lullaby that he used to sing to Tommy.

"Wilbur! There you are! Where have you been? Did you see Pogtopia? It's all ruined!"

Tommy ran towards his brother, but was stopped by an invisible barrier. He tried to go through, but couldn't.

Wilbur came over to him, setting his guitar aside but the music still continued to play. He placed his hand on the barrier, trying to reach Tommy, but was stopped by the same invisible force.

"Stupid wall!" Tommy smacked it with his hands. "We need you! I...need you! Just come with me!"

"I can't Tommy. It's too late for me."

"Then I'll come with you!"

"You can't. Not yet."

"But...but."

"Tommy, listen to me. Things are going to change a lot. And I wish I could be there for you...but I can't." Wilbur slowly turned transparent, like he was fading away.

"Wait, Wilbur what do you mean! Where are you going!"

"I'm so sorry, but your big brother was too weak...please forgive me..." Wilbur’s voice trembled. He looked at Tommy longingly, his darling little brother. 

Both placed their hands on the barrier, inches away from each other—so close, yet so far.

"Wilbur Soot. It's time to go." An ethereal voice echoed around them. It had a certain authority to it, but it wasn't malicious or forceful, more like a gentle embrace easing you into what must happen.

A tall, shadowy, female figure formed behind Wilbur, gently placing her hand on him. To Tommy though, this figure was a blur, like he wasn't supposed to see her yet.

Wilbur stood to face her. He covered his eyes, refusing to show his tears. "I don't...I don't want to go...I'm not ready. He still needs me..."

"I know...nobody's ever ready. You poor, poor boy. It's okay, let it out. You've been strong for so long, child. You can rest now." The woman took Wilbur into her arms, who started sobbing in her embrace.

"You don't have to worry about him either. I've seen it. He will be cared for deeply. He will not be alone. His future is so bright, it's almost blinding."

"Really?"

"I swear it."

Tommy was pounding on the barrier, tears flowing, his screams muffled. "Don't take him! Don't take Wilby from me!"

Wilbur let out a choked sob, smiling warmly at Tommy, taking one last look at him.

"Be brave for me, okay big man? I love you."

Then a white light enveloped them all.

"Wilbur!" Tommy yelled, jolting up. His arm reached out. But Wilbur was gone, and the figure was gone. He took in his surroundings: he was in a tent of some sort, and lying on a bed. He must've fallen asleep at some point.

"Are you...okay? You're crying..." A tall boy poked him gently. It was Ranboo.

Tommy reached to touch his face, and it was drenched in tears. His heart felt hollow, like a part of him had died. "I...I don't know. I had a dream. I don't remember everything though. I think something bad happened to my brother...but I don't know what..."

Ranboo, ever the polite one, lent Tommy his handkerchief. "I'm Ranboo."

Tommy took it gratefully and wiped his face. "I'm Tommy."

"Why are you here?"

"I fell into a river, but Mr Philza saved me. He told me to wait here because it's safe. He said he'd try to find my parents. And then that big, pink man carried you in and left."

"I was in City Hall. My brother was doing something important, I think. But then everything went boom. I was so scared..."

"I was scared too. The water...it hurt."

Tommy inspected Ranboo more closely, taking in his features and non-human parts. "You're...a hybrid right? An...Enderman? Wilbur taught me a lot about Hybrids."

"Yeah! I am. Wait, is your brother President Wilbur?"

"Yes...what about it?"

"He was so nice and helpful to us when we moved here. If you're his brother, then you must be an important person!'

"Yeah! I'm a big man!" Tommy puffed his chest, acting all silly.

Ranboo smiled at the other boy. "Do you want to be friends?"

"Yeah...That sounds nice!"

"Yay!" Ranboo's tail wagged excitedly, then Tommy suddenly grabbed it, earning a yelp from Ranboo. Both of them were giggling.

The two children managed to temporarily forget what was happening around them, and for the first time since the explosions, laughter filled the tent.

But, even as he laughed, Tommy couldn’t shake the weight pressing on his chest. Something felt wrong—like part of him already knew.

Outside, Philza had just filled Techno in on what he learnt from Schlatt. The other told him what happened inside City Hall, and the untimely demise of the Pogtopian President.

"Schlatt...if I see him..." Techno growled.

"Techno, control yourself. As much as I want to see him die, he's still president. We can't do much to him as long as he's in power."

"Then we'll ruin his influence first! THEN he'll die!" Techno's pupils were becoming red, his breath ragged. The voices were growing louder and louder. Anarchy. Blood for the Blood God.

"Calm down Techno...!"

"I could've not listened! I knew something was up, but I didn't question it! I could've saved Wilbur, but I wasn't fast enough! It's exactly how that fucker wanted it to play out! All this death, it's all because of me!" Techno felt like his head was splitting in half, the voices were so loud. He doubled over in pain.

"Techno look at me!" Philza grabbed his friend's face, making their eyes meet.

"I was the one that called for the ceasefire...the one who allowed Schlatt to slip those bombs in. I gave the order; it's not your fault for following. This is all my fault. I take full responsibility. Please, don't blame yourself, old friend. Deep breaths."

Techno's breath slowly evened out, the voices quieting. "Thanks Phil..."

"You're welcome. I...feel the same way. It's soul-crushing. But in the meantime, I'm sorry to ask this, could you go help search for survivors? It'll motivate our men to see their general with them."

"Yeah. I'll go do that."

"Thank you. I need to check in with the number of refugees and supplies we have. Stay safe."

The gravel crunched as Techno headed back into the city, and Philza went to convene with the civil affairs division. The group planned how to help best with the resources they currently had. Philza made sure the conversation was flowing smoothly with no arguments over not giving aid.

"We can allocate some medical supplies here, and we can start handing out food and water here in about an hour. I'll send a request for more supplies, and no, I don't care what Schlatt says-"

Philza's words were cut off by abrupt yells, and he turned to see two people carrying a stretcher run past.

"Make way! We have a child in critical condition!"

And they were right. The stretcher had a small boy on it, green shirt, black pants, brown hair. Only those details were barely visible, as the child was severely burnt all over his body, even his face, earning some horrified gasps from onlookers. Philza could sense it: the child was barely hanging on, but he was fighting. He didn't know why, but he felt a sort of desperation to protect the child. A...deeper connection that he can't explain. Maybe it was because he caused this. 

He approached the tent that the boy was brought into, but was stopped by one of the people who carried him in.

"Commander, with all due respect, let the medics do their thing. You can't help him any more than they can." It was Puffy, a captain in the army, and one of Philza's most trusted officers.

"You're right, Captain. Mind telling me what happened?"

"Of course sir. My team and I were doing a sweep through the city, continuing our search for survivors and putting out fires. We heard a weak voice coming from one of the burning houses, and we found him in there, buried under fallen wood. I believe his name is 'Tubbo', as that's the sign we saw hanging on the door of the room he was in. Judging based on his injuries...it seems he suffered 3rd degree burns at a minimum. It's truly unfortunate."

The light in Philza's eyes dimmed. Even if Tubbo survives, he'll most likely have lifelong scars. Great. I've given people both permanent mental and physical trauma. I should just-

"Sir, if you don't mind me asking, what even happened? Where did those bombs come from?" Puffy asked, pulling Philza out from his thoughts.

"I'll...address that later. Please keep me updated on Tubbo's situation," Philza said as he left the scene.

He hated himself, but he was worried. He would not have a child this young die while he could still help. He got on his knees, clasping his hands together, and prayed.

Lady death. Love. Please, hear me. That child, Tubbo, don't take him yet. I can feel it, he's not dead yet, he's fighting so hard. He's still so young, please...if someone has to die, make it me.

After what felt like an eternity, the world fell silent mid-motion. And instead of hearing her in his head, he, unexpectedly, heard her voice.

"Life doesn't work that way, my dear. You can't exchange yours for another. But don't worry, it isn't his time yet. You sensed it as well, he is strong. He will live." 

Philza opened his eyes, and saw Kristin in front of him. But everything around him was frozen, like time had stopped.

"Kristin! You're...actually here!"

"Yes...I had much work to do. Death on this scale is rare, so I had to come directly to mediate. But...it gave me a chance to see you." She caressed Philza's cheek, planting a soft kiss on him, making his heart flutter. But the feeling quickly dissipated, and was replaced by sadness and shame.

"Kristin...how many?" He asked, bracing for what Kristin would say.

Kristin closed her eyes, and took a deep breath. "2468. And...it's rising."

Philza sighed deeply. He wiped his eyes, his feathers drooped. The weight of her words sinking in.

"My beautiful angel. Don't cry. Please, it hurts to see you in such pain. Do not blame yourself."

"How could I not? I did this...all those people, they did nothing wrong and...I'm a monster. I should di-"

"No, never say that." Kristin put her hand on his mouth, her dark eyes filled with sadness.

"You are not at fault here; you were deceived by a cruel man. I know you feel guilty, and I know it won't go away in a day. But do not let it swallow you. Acknowledge it as a mistake, and learn to move on. Be strong, because these people need you. Those children? They need you too."

He let out a shaky breath. Kristin was right. He can't let himself wallow in self-pity. He had a job to do. And that's making sure all these people are safe, and Schlatt pays for what he did.

"And please, my love. Don't think of throwing your life away for others. It is much more precious than you can imagine. No more of those harmful thoughts, please." Kristin looked at him lovingly, planting another kiss on him before disappearing.

Time resumed around Philza, but his wife's words rung in his head. The situation seemed to be under control for now, so he went to go check up on Tommy and Ranboo. He entered the tent they were in, and smiled as he saw the two playfighting, giggling on the bed.

"Oh! It's Mr Philza!" Ranboo said, running over to him.

"Hello again, Ranboo, and please, just call me Philza. It's great to see you two getting along."

"Yeah! Philza, did you know Ranboo's half Enderman?"

"Yep, I picked it up when I saved him."

"And what are you? You're not human, right?" Tommy asked, grabbing Philza's wings.

Philza jumped at the sudden touch. "Whoa, careful, those are sensitive!"

"I'm sorry sir!" Tommy shrank away, clearly scared of something.

"Hey, don't apologize. It's not that big of a deal. You're quite the curious child, aren't you?"

"Y...yeah! I like to learn things about other people."

"But, can I ask you a question Philza?"

"Of course, Tommy."

"I had this weird...dream. But I don't remember it very well. It was this really dark place, and there was this shadowy person with Wilbur...and I think it brought him somewhere. But I don't know where...do you know where he is?"

Philza's body stiffened, and his feathers became ruffled. What he's describing—that must've been Kristin's realm. And he saw...Wilbur. If Kristin let Tommy see him, she must've been letting him say goodbye. He crouched down, placing his hands on Tommy's shoulder, steadying him.

"Ranboo, could you go...get some food and come back? They should be setting some out soon. I need to talk with Tommy."

The boy nodded, and left the tent, leaving the two blondes.

"Tommy...I don't know how to tell you this...but...Wilbur he's..." Philza racked through his mind, trying to find any way to sugarcoat or soften the blow for Tommy. But he couldn't find the words.

Philza feathers trembled as he forced the words out. "He's no longer with us."

The boy's eyes widened, he opened his mouth and tried to speak, but nothing came out.

"Wh...what?"

"I'm sorry Tommy."

"That's...that's what he meant? He said he couldn't go with me...is that why? He's...dead?"

"Yes...he's...gone."

Tommy started bawling his eyes out, reaching out to grab something, anything. This time though, there was no barrier between him and the person he needed, and Philza held the child as he cried.

"Wilbur...why! Why did you leave me! Why did the shadow monster take you? Why did it hurt you?"

"It wasn't a monster Tommy. And it didn't hurt Wilbur. He's in a better place now, no pain."

"Did he not love me...? Is that why he left? Like mommy and daddy?" Tommy's body trembled as he sobbed.

"No, no, no. He loved you, he loved you so much, more than anything in the world. He would never leave you willingly." Philza hugged the child tightly, tears falling from his own eyes now too. He didn't know Wilbur very well, but he knew he loved his little brother deeply.

"Who destroyed Pogtopia? Who hurt Wilby? I hate them! I hate them forever!"

Hearing those words was like ripping Philza's heart out. He shut his eyes and pulled the child closer. Philza couldn't tell him yet. Not when Tommy needed someone to be strong for him.

"Wilby...I miss you so much Wilby..."

Tommy's sobs filled the tent, and Philza could say nothing. For once, he felt powerless to do anything.

Chapter Text

The air smelled of smoke and boiled grain, and the line for food stretched halfway around the camp. Ranboo was waiting at the end, doing as Philza instructed; getting himself, Tommy, and him food. The people who passed by gave him a few looks. Maybe because he was a child all by himself. Maybe it was because he was a hybrid. Either way, they burned the same. Whether it was pity or judgement, he couldn't tell. But he's felt both before, and neither felt good. Ranboo didn't even realize it was his turn, and someone was talking to him.

"Hey, little boy? Hello?" The soldier at the table waved at him.

"Oh! S...sorry." Ranboo hands shook nervously as he reached to grab food for the three of them.

"Woah," The man raised his hand to stop Ranboo. "One per person."

"But...I'm getting it for three people!"

"And if I believe anyone that says that, we'd run out before you could say 'Pog'! Now take one and go."

Ranboo hesitated, earning a few complaints from the people behind him...with some...discriminatory phrases thrown at him.

"They're always taking from us humans..."

"Dirty Hybrids..."

Ranboo sighed. He was used to this, being hated for just being different. He had no choice but to turn and leave. But before he could, someone stopped him.

"Don't worry Punz, he's with me."

Ranboo felt a hand fall on his shoulder, and he turned to see the large pink man that brought Tommy in. Techno...that was his name, right?

"General! Welcome back, sir!"

"Good to be back. Saving people makes ya hungry. Why don't you give me four of those? It's for the Commander, and the children under his and my protection!" Techno said, emphasizing the last part loudly, shutting up the previously rowdy crowd.

Techno got what he asked for, and left with Ranboo following behind. He opened his hand and offered it to Ranboo, who took it gladly.

"T...thank you Mr Techno."

"Just 'Techno' is fine. Are you alright? Those people were pretty mean."

"I'm okay. I'm used to it. But...is what you said true? You're the general of the army? And Mr Philza's the commander?"

"Yep. You catch on quickly."

"Wow...and you just made all those people quiet, even though you're a hybrid like me! How...how do you do it?"

"You let your actions speak louder than words. And besides, those bigots are all bark and no bite. They're scared of someone who can actually fight back. Cowards."

"You're amazing Mr Techno! Ah...sorry. Techno. Mr Philza too. He saved my life! If only I could be like you two...strong, powerful..."

"Hey, I came from humble beginnings too. It took hard work and dedication to get to where I am now. I truly believe you could do it too, if you give it your all. So don't sell yourself short, no matter who you are."

"Really?" Ranboo looked up, his eyes full of hope. "Then, I...I want to be like you two!"

Techno saw a bit of himself in Ranboo. His life uncertain, but full of potential and determination. He ruffled the boy's hair, gently patting him. But, to Techno's surprise, this action made Ranboo let out a choked sob.

Techno immediately set his belongings aside, crouching down to meet Ranboo.

"R...Ranboo? Are you okay? Did I do something wrong? I'm sorry if I did!"

"No...no...that...that was just like...how mommy used to pat my head..."

"Oh! Well, I'm sure they're-"

"Don't...please. I...know they're both dead. Mommy and daddy. They used to say we had a special connection...we could always feel where each other was. But now that connection...is gone. Like it was cut. I can't feel it anymore. And I know there's only one reason why..." Ranboo's throat tightened, his eyes glassy.

Techno's mouth fell agape. He didn't think Ranboo already knew. And he's...already accepted it.

"C...can't cry. Or it'll hurt me..." Ranboo squinted his eyes tightly, refusing to let his tears fall.

"No, no. Ranboo, it's unhealthy to keep them in. Here, I found this when I was rescuing people."

Techno pulled out from his pocket, a mask. The edges were singed, small cracks along the sides. But the colors were unmistakable—it had Ranboo's signature half-black and half-white complexion on it. It looked to be designed to serve as face protection.

"I believe this is yours?" Techno smiled tenderly.

"That's...the mask daddy bought for my birthday! You...you found it!"

The mask wasn't much, but it meant everything to Ranboo. For a split second, Ranboo saw his father. The big, strong, tender man who protected him from everything painful in the world. But he blinked again, and it was just Techno holding the mask out.

Ranboo took the mask, and put it on quickly. And like a broken dam, the tears flowed out of his eyes like an uncontained river. And fortunately, the mask protected his face from the liquid. But, it couldn't hide his grief. Techno pulled the child into a snug embrace, wiping his tears away for him.

"There you go, don't keep it bottled up. Let it all out," Techno said as he gently stroked Ranboo's hair, shielding him from other people's gaze while pulling him aside.

After a while, Ranboo's sobs calmed down. He looked up at Techno with puffy eyes, his voice hoarse.

"What's...going to happen to me now...I have no family..."

"I...I don't know Ranboo. I'm sorry. But know this—What I said earlier still holds true. Philza and I will protect you."

"Thank you..." Ranboo looked like he was going to cry again, but this time out of gratitude. He buried his face into Techno's chest, mumbling something. When he finally caught the word, Techno froze.

Ranboo knew clear as day, what he said. And he knew the implications of it. A simple word, a simple choice, that could change their lives.

"Dad."

They sat there for a while, the tall child falling asleep in Techno's arms. As much as he'd hate to risk disturbing Ranboo, Techno knew Philza would get worried if he was missing for longer. Reluctantly, he shifted and carried him back to the tent. There, he found Philza gently humming to a fast-asleep Tommy. Philza put a finger in front of his mouth, signaling for him to be as quiet as possible. Techno gently laid Ranboo on the bed next to Tommy, and took two ration bars and water canteen, placing them between their beds.

"Let's eat outside," Philza whispered.

The two men left the tent, sitting right outside in case the children inside stirred and needed them. The sun was beginning to sink below the horizon, the light painting them in a golden glow.

"So how's the situation out there?"

"It's calmed down. Most of the fires are out, and we've saved everyone we could. But I've had most of the squads move on to gathering and identifying the bodies. They're working with the Pogtopian government. What's left of it that is."

"That's...that's good. It's a start. I can't even imagine where I'll begin with this nightmare of logistics."

"One step at a time Phil. It's how we've gotten through everything."

They ate in silence for a bit, pondering the consequences of all this death and destruction.

Techno interrupted the quiet with a sigh. "I uh...went back to City Hall. I thought just...just maybe...I could find Soot. Alive."

"I did find him. He's..." He paused, refusing to describe what he saw. "I don't think I have it in me to tell Tommy."

"Don't worry, you won't need to. He...knows."

"What? You...you told him?"

"Yeah. You know how you can feel it when someone you love dies? It's like a part of you disappears." Philza was all too familiar with the feeling.

"That connection is strongest amongst family, and Tommy felt it, but he didn't know for sure. When he asked me...I had to break it to him. Poor thing cried until he couldn't anymore.. and fell asleep."

"Did you tell him how it happened?"

"I...couldn't bring myself to. I'm a fucking coward." Philza buried his head in his hands.

Techno placed a hand on his friend's back, consoling him.

"Well, if it makes you feel any better, Ranboo knows too. He figured out his parents were dead, and I...did my best for him."

"Bruh, how would that make me feel any better?" He turned to face his friend.

"I don't know...give you something to relate to?"

"It's a shitty thing to relate to." Phil had a pained smile on his face.

"Hey Phil, can I ask you something?"

"Shoot."

"Ranboo...he asked me what was going to happen to him once everything settled down. I honestly had no answer for him. But he said something that made me think...a lot."

"What did he say?" Philza asked curiously.

"He called me 'dad'."

Philza's stunned silence spoke volumes, and the word echoed in Techno’s mind, almost like a silent plea from the boy he promised to protect. But it didn't feel wrong.

It felt right.

"What if...I adopt him? And Tommy, and any other children that were orphaned by this disaster. Or at least if they want to...and as many as the foster system allows me to"

"Techno...I don't know. You're only 24. You still have a great future ahead of you, things to experience. Can you handle raising that many children?"

"Great future? With this life? There's not much of a future for me. I've always just killed and killed, never thinking once about the orders I was given. But now...I have a chance to devote my life to something greater. I played a part in ruining their lives. If I can't give it back to them, then I'm damn well going to do everything in my power to make it better. Even if they eventually come to hate me, I will give them the life they deserve, and the love they should have gotten."

"Well...if I'm being honest, I've had some thoughts about this too, and for about the same reasons as you. I can't, won't, let them be lost in foster care. Manberg clearly does not have a good system, and Pogtopia is still in shambles. If you're set on this...then I won't let you do it alone. It's always been us against the world, and this is no different."

Philza raised his hand, gesturing for Techno to take it. "Would you allow me to raise them with you together? As friends?"

The voices stirred, whispering warnings, mocking him for daring to care. They were chastising him for this idea, the exact opposite of what they demanded. But he couldn't care less. For the first time, the voices had no effect on him, and meant nothing. They were drowned out by the bright future he saw with his friend, Tommy, Ranboo, and the other children he would raise. 

Techno grabbed Philza's hand firmly, a rare, genuine smile spreading across his face. "I'd love that more than anything."

Their intimate moment was short-lived though, as the two were interrupted by the sound of crunching gravel. Puffy turned the corner and caught their attention.

"Phil- Oh, General. l...Is...this a bad time?" Puffy’s voice cut through the moment.

"No, please continue." Philza moved his hand away and stood up.

"Well, sir, you asked me to keep you updated on Tubbo's situation. He's conscious now, but barely. The burns have done a number on him. Scars. Carbon monoxide poisoning...We also have not been able to identify any relatives or guardians, but it's looking bleak. Where I found him...I think it was an orphanage."

That piece of information felt like daggers going straight through Techno and Philza's hearts. Another orphan. But...maybe they could help him too.

Philza nodded. "Thank you Puffy. I think we'll do a quick check-up on him. And...loosen up. You don't have to be so serious around us. This is already stressful enough, and I don't want you overworking yourself."

Puffy let out a long breath, muttering a soft 'thanks Phil'.

"Captain, would you happen to know how many are scheduled to be on urgent transport to Manberg?" Techno asked.

"Hm, the nurses mentioned it was 37 right now. There should be a few more spots if I remember correctly."

“That’s…not a lot. I expected much more,” Philza remarked.

"Yeah. I heard some bastard's rigging it, I don't know who would do that though."

"Is Tubbo part of that 37?" Techno questioned.

"No...I overheard them saying he's 'not high priority'. A load of bull if you ask me. That kid was hurt badly, and if it was up to me he'd be halfway to the best hospital in Manberg by now. I'm willing to bet they're only doing this cause he's a hybrid."

"Wait, what? I thought he was human!" Philza recalled back to the brief glimpse he got of Tubbo being carried past him, but he saw no traits that pointed to him being a hybrid of any species.

"Yeah, it's barely noticeable unless you look closely. He has these tiny horns on his head, almost like a goat," Puffy described.

Techno was seething at this revelation. "I'm so going to have some words for them, and I'm getting him on that transport."

"They may not listen to a captain, but they'll have to listen to the general and commander. Take care of him, yeah? I need to go check up on another kid I rescued. I think his name was Foolish."

Puffy quickly saluted, and left the two to their devices.

"Puffy mentioned there being a couple spots left. I think we should try to get Tommy, Tubbo, and Ranboo on," Techno suggested.

"Agreed. Getting these kids out of here as soon as possible sounds good. But...who'll take care of them once they reach Manberg? We're still pretty occupied here." 

"I'll call Niki. She could look after them for now in that school of hers."

"That teacher friend of yours? Sounds great. She'll know how to comfort them too if..." Philza trailed off.

"Well, before that happens, we have to deal with that transport schedule, and check on Tubbo...but, Phil. You're thinking what I'm thinking right?"

"Yeah mate. We’ll make room for him too. We're not letting him fall through the cracks."

The was a glimmer of hope in both of their eyes. The world was still burning, but for the first time in a long while, Techno saw a spark worth saving. And maybe, just maybe, there was still a chance to make it right.

Chapter Text

The rhythmic beating of heart monitors, hurried orders between doctors, silent prayers from worried friends and family.

This was the sight Philza and Techno were greeted with. It wasn't something they were unfamiliar with, though. They've both seen their troops in similar conditions. Once, Philza even refused to leave Techno's bedside until he woke up after he took an explosion meant for him. But even then, they were helpless to do anything but hope and pray.

And that's exactly what Philza did, offering a silent prayer to Kristen, begging her not to take these poor souls before their time.

Techno gently tapped his friend's shoulder. "C’mon Phil, let's find the person in charge."

It didn't take much time for them to find who they were looking for—Head nurse Hannah. The one who personally patched Techno up, and the one who kept Philza company in the long nights he spent next to Techno.

"Commander, General! Uh, what brings you here? Are you guys hurt? Does someone need medical attention?" Hannah asked, her voice full of compassion and worry.

"No, nothing like that Hannah, we won't take up much of your time. We were wondering if you could let us take a look at the transport list? We have some children we'd like to get out of this area as soon as possible."

"Children...of course! But, as much as I'd love to, it's not for me to decide. It's up to him." Hannah said with disdain, completely opposite of her previously kind tone.

The two turned and saw who Hannah was pointing at. It was a man in a suit, standing apart from the rest of the white-clothed medics. Spotless shoes and clothing amid blood-stained floors, with an extremely punchable expression on his face that just screamed, "I'm above all of this!"

"That...argh. He's a representative from the hospital everyone is being sent to. He gets to decide who goes, and who stays. But all he cares about is 'Who can pay for our services?', so he's only choosing the people that look well-off. That doesn't even make sense, since the government's covering all expenses, but he just won't listen! To top it off, he's a prejudiced-"

Hannah cut herself off before she could finish. "I'm sorry, sirs...just thinking of how people can forsake the lives of people just for the sake of greed...it makes my blood boil."

"Don't worry, I feel the same. Let me have a word with him." Techno's voice was calm, too calm, and his eyes betrayed him.

They were blood red.

Techno approached the man, who raised an eyebrow at him.

"You, give me full access to the hospital transport list." 

The man scoffed. "Excuse me? Who are you to tell me-"

Crack. The man couldn't even finish his sentence before Techno's fist connected with his face, making him fall to the ground in pain, blood spewing out from his nose.

"General Technoblade. By going against my orders, you, by extension, are going against your nation. Now, do not make me repeat myself." The voices rejoiced in the blood spilt, egging on Techno to further brutalize this man. Techno really wanted to, but he had to fight hard not to comply.

He quickly handed over his tablet, hands trembling, before scurrying away like the rat he was. It contained all the details of who were chosen for "urgent" transport.

"That was amazing, sir!"

"Please, you saved my life. Call me Techno. I trust you with this Hannah. Sort out the people that actually need real care, then the children and women."

"Definitely! But let me put the names of those children you mentioned."

Once Hannah noted the names of Tommy, Tubbo, and Ranboo, she hurried off to confer with the other medics on who to move.

"Ruthless as ever, Blade," Philza remarked.

"Heh, like you wouldn't have ripped him to pieces yourself."

Phil rolled his eyes. "True."

The duo let out a sigh of relief as they saw some of the beds with severely injured patients being moved out, along with some of the children and their mothers being led to the transports. They moved to find Tubbo, wanting to check up on him.

They asked one of the hurrying doctors, and figured out where Tubbo was. He was in a makeshift "room" with curtains draped around it. Phil gently pushed the curtains open, and their hearts were absolutely crushed when they saw him. Puffy barely even began to describe how bad his injuries were.

But most jarring to Philza, were the horns protruding at the top of his head. Not the fact of the existence of the horns themselves, but the similarity to those that President Schlatt has. Or...more accurately, HAD. But nobody else knew Schlatt wasn't a full human.

Phil found it out purely by coincidence. 8 years ago, when he was a mere sergeant. He was the appointed bodyguard for Schlatt for that day, roughly a week before his election campaign, and he stormed into his room after hearing pained groans.

He saw Schlatt cutting his own horns off.

He swore him to secrecy, and in return promised to give Philza much more leniency if he was elected, hence why he was let off the hook for many cases of insubordination, and why he strove to take the blame for Techno most of the time. He had good reasons for disobeying though!

To this day, Philza never found out why he did that, or how long he's been doing it for. But some questions were better left unanswered, until today.

"Hello, Tubbo? Can you hear me?" Philza said, crouching next to his bed.

Tubbo groaned into his oxygen mask. Mumbling a quiet "hello" and smiling, raising his hand to wave weakly. Even while barely conscious, he was still so positive. Why is it that the kindest are the most cruelly punished? 

"My name is Philza. This Technoblade. Do you know where you are right now?"

"K...kinda. The doctor told me I had slight...amesha?"

"Amnesia?" Techno corrected.

"Y...yeah...I don't know what it means." Tubbo frowned.

"It just means you've forgotten some things," Philza explained.

A look of despair fell on Tubbo's face. "W...what? Am I going to forget more? I don't...want that!"

"No, it's okay. It was only slight amnesia, which means you’ve only forgotten a little bit. And you're stable now, so you won't forget anything more if you focus on healing and are safe. I promise, you will be as long as I'm here."

Tubbo seemed to understand this, nodding silently and choosing to trust Philza's words.

"Now, I'll ask again so you can try and remember some things. Do you know where you are?"

"Y..yeah. I'm in Pogtopia. I know there were...big booms. And everything hurt after that..."

"It's okay, we're going to get you out of here as soon as possible. We'll take you to Manberg. We have very good medical technology. It'll be like the pain never existed, so just hang on for a bit more." Techno held his hand tightly, comforting him.

"Can you tell me what else you remember?" Philza asked.

"Uh...my name is Tubbo...and I don't have a mommy or daddy. I'm...8 years old...I-" Tubbo's began to cough, hard. The smoke in his lungs seemingly not completely cleared.

"It's okay, don't force yourself. We'll be back soon, some people will bring you over to the truck, and we'll make sure you get proper protection on the way there."

Techno and Phil left Tubbo to rest, closing the blinds behind them

"Hey Phil, why were you so insistent on asking him questions?"

"I was worried. And I thought maybe we could try to find his parents. But I guess probably not."

That wasn't a lie. Philza told himself. That was partially what I wanted to do. And yeah. Just having similar horns didn't mean they were related. There are thousands of goat hybrids in the world! It's probably just a coincidence. No need to tell Techno all about it.

"Well, I sent Niki a text earlier, and she said she'd be happy to take the kids in for now."

"Ah, that angel of a woman. We need to get her something the next time we see her."

"Techno, Philza!"

They snapped their heads around to the person calling their name. It was Hannah again.

"The truck for the kids you mentioned to go on is ready. We're going to move Tubbo right now. Where can we find Tommy and Ranboo?"

Techno stepped forward. "I'll handle that. Tell me where I should take them."

"Do we really have to go without you?" Tommy said, clinging tightly to Techno's hand.

"Yes Tommy, but don't worry. A very nice lady named Niki will be there to pick you up. Just keep an eye out for a woman with pink hair, and the smell of cookies. We'll see you all again once we handle everything here."

Techno had picked up Tommy and Ranboo from the tent they were in. It was quite a shocking view for onlookers, seeing the ruthless General Technoblade, showing so much tender care to two little children, hand in hand with them.

"Really? Pinky promise it?" Ranboo asked holding his pinky out, expecting Techno to do the silly gesture.

Techno chuckled softly, wrapping his pinky around the tall boy's.

"Me too!" Tommy waved his finger expectantly.

And Techno did the same with Tommy, giving him the same affection as Ranboo.

Softnoblade. Softnoblade. Stop wasting time with these children. Go hurt someone like you did to that man! Blood for the Blood God!

Techno brushed them aside, refusing to give in to their demands. There was something much more important at hand.

"Let's go. Better not keep Phil waiting. There's also someone we'd like you two to meet."

Techno brought the children to where many of the trucks were idle. They found their designated one shortly. Philza was speaking with Puffy, who was the appointed guard for this transport. The truck was packed to the brim, save for the back, which had a stretcher with Tubbo on it.

“Ah, there they are!” Philza said, relieved.

“Great, we can go soon. I’ll speak to the dri-Hey, Foolish, sit down! No fighting with the other kids!" Puffy yelled as she moved to the front, leaving the group behind.

Tommy wrenched his hand away from Techno, running up to Philza. He extended his pinky at the other, a determined look on his face. 

“Techno promised we would see him again, so you have to too!”

Philza looked down, and completely understood how he was feeling. He was terrified of losing more people. He intertwined his pinky with the small child’s, before scooping him up suddenly into a big hug. He lifted him up high, and placed Tommy onto the truck on the seat next to Tubbo.

Ranboo was next, and Philza pulled him into a tight embrace before plopping him down next to Tommy. The two immediately took notice of the bedridden boy.

"Hi! I'm Tommy!" He waved at the boy lying down.

"I'm Tubbo."

"My name's Ranboo."

"Whoa, you have horns! They're so cute!" Tommy was completely fascinated, reaching out to touch them.

"Tommy! Be gentle, Tubbo is injured." Techno chided.

“It’s okay Mr Techno. It feels nice actually…” Tubbo smiled.

“You don’t...look okay. What happened?” Ranboo asked.

“Oh, I got hurt in one of the big booms…”

Ranboo looked stunned. “Wow, and you survived? You must be really strong!”

“I…guess I am! I’m a big, strong man!”

“Hey, that’s my line!” Tommy pouted.

"Heh, they've known each other for less than a minute and they're already...like brothers," Techno commented

Phil grinned watching the adorable scene unfold, clinging to the side of the truck. "I see you three are already getting along! Now, I'd like to ask you two for a little help."

"So, Tubbo is still a little hurt right now, but Puffy can't keep her eye on him 100% of the time because she has to help others too. Can you two stick with Tubbo for the ride and watch over him? If there's anything you can't help him with, just call for Puffy and she'll come running."

Tommy nodded enthusiastically. “Hear that Tubbo? We’re your bosses now!”

“Not bosses, Tommy,” Ranboo shook his head. “We’re going to keep him safe for da- Phil!”

“Wait, what did you say Ranboo?”

“Nothing…nothing.”

“Nuh uh, that wasn’t nothing! And as your new boss, I’m going to call you Boo!”

“What? How are you the boss? That doesn’t make sense…”

“Shouldn’t I be the boss, because you guys are taking care of me?” Tubbo joked.

“Alright, you can all be the bosses of each other.” Puffy came to the back, raising her hands in false surrender, and the three children all cheered in unison.

“Settle down now, we’re going to be leaving soon,” she said as she vaulted over the back of the truck, landing in front of Phil and Techno,

"I think I'll have a few grey hairs by the time I'm done with this ride..."

"Keep them safe, Puffy." Phil placed his hand on her shoulder, handing over the documents required for getting the refugees into Manberg.

"Wouldn't think otherwise, Phil. Stay safe, you two."

“Wouldn’t think otherwise,” Techno copied.

The truck revved to life once Puffy boarded, and carted off the people it carried into the distance.

The trio found various ways to keep themselves entertained, though it was mostly Tommy speaking. Whether it was playing made up games, arguing over silly things like “what’s the best way to eat a Dorito”, or sharing things about themselves, there was never a dull moment between them.

But then, Tubbo asked a question that carried a weight he did not know about.

“Hey, Tommy, Ranboo, where are your parents?”

Ranboo’s eyes got cloudy with tears, and Tommy’s mouth fell open like he didn’t know what to say for once.

“Wha…did I…You guys…I’m sorry! I…only make things worse…” Tubbo’s eyes began to well up with tears too.

“No…Tubbo…you didn’t know. It’s not your fault…it’s just…my mommy and daddy died when the big booms happened. I miss them so much…” Ranboo choked out, putting on his mask before tears could flow out.

“My big brother died too because of the booms, I…want him back,” Tommy said, unusually quietly.

“I…I don’t think I knew my mommy and daddy. I was in that orphanage since… forever.”

“So…does that mean you don’t have a family anymore too?” Ranboo asked through the tears.

“I don’t think I ever had a family…I was all alone. Nobody there liked me. Said I was annoying and weird…called me ‘stupid goat’.”

Tommy laughed weakly. “Haha…I guess that’s something we all have now.” 

All three of them were crying quietly now.

“My big brother…Wilbur. He used to sing for me when I was sad. I’m not as good as him but…I want to do it for us now.”

Tommy began to sing softly, remembering the song Wilbur sang for him in the past. Ranboo’s hand inched closer, holding Tommy’s as he hummed along with him. Tubbo reached up, grabbing onto Tommy’s leg, tenderly tapping to the rhythm.

The song was interrupted by a soft gasp from Tubbo.

“Guys, look up. The sky is so pretty.”

They turned their heads up, and were met with a breathtaking view. Comets were soaring through the infinite expanse of space, leaving a trail of stardust behind them that almost made them feel like were on an otherworldly plane. It was like Death herself had added her own touch to the sky, paying tribute to all the fallen souls.

Though Tubbo was still bedridden, he seemed to have more energy than ever when talking to Ranboo and Tommy. Almost like being in the presence of the other two revitalized him. They didn’t mock him like the others; they didn’t hate him for being different.

Tommy felt like a weight had been lifted from his heart. Actually talking about his pain out loud with people that could understand it…it made things so much easier. The hole Wilbur left in his heart still felt hollow, deep. But…slowly but surely, that hole was being filled again. By Ranboo, by Tubbo, by Phil, and by Techno.

Ranboo felt like he lost his entire world when his parents died. That there would never be another happy moment in his life. No more hugs, no more laughs, no more jokes;

No more family.

But oh, how wrong he was. He had already been proven completely wrong by the four people he had only met today.

They were just three children, torn apart from their families by war. But still, by being with each other, they could be happy. If only for a moment.

Tommy and Ranboo leaned against each other, while Tubbo lay on his back. The three looked up at the gorgeous night sky together. None of them said anything, because no words were needed.

They only needed each other.