Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

OJ sat on his desk. Another busy day. Paying taxes, addressing complaints, paying for maintenance and food. Gosh it was boring. He’d rather be somewhere else. In the garden with Paper, or playing video games with Pickle and Bomb. I need a break…With that, he got up to stretch. How long has it been anyways. 5, 6 hours? Paper walked in, a worried look on his face.

“Uhm…Oj, you've been working for a while.”

“What about it?” OJ responded.

“Do you think you can come to bed now? It's almost 12 A.M.” Paper fidgeted with the crease on his top left corner.

“I need to work on a few more things I’ll come to bed in a-“ Oj was cut off by Paper grasping his wrist looking at him with a frown. 

“Go. To. Bed.” He said sternly. Oj was honestly a little shocked by this. 

“Please.” 

“...okay,” OJ mumbled reluctantly. Paper looked satisfied and took OJ's hand to guide him to their room. OJ realized he was so tired he could barely walk. Paper sighed and put OJ’s arm over himself to steady the shaky glass. Finally they made it to the room. Oj put his cork on to prevent his juice from spilling and flopped on the comfy king sized bed, sighing with relief. Paper lay beside him and stared into OJ's eyes. Or soul, OJ could never tell. 

“You've gotta stop overworking yourself so much,” Paper whispered, rubbing his hand on OJ's pristine glass. 

“But who will take care of the hotel?”

“Im right here OJ,” Paper chuckled. OJ's tired face was replaced with sorrow.

“Yeah but… When the hotel first started, you worked yourself to death and…I can't let you hurt yourself like that anymore.” OJ's voice was starting to crack. Paper placed a finger on his lips to shush him. The two just stayed silent while Paper smiled playfully at OJ. OJ started to laugh a little and in only a few seconds, the two were giggling and snickering like they did in their younger years. It had been a while since they had such a moment together. It was nice. Really nice. Paper yawned and stretched.

“We'll, I guess it's time for us to go to bed.” He looked at OJ expectantly. “Or you're gonna be horribly paranoid.” Paper chuckled a bit at his own remark. OJ playfully shoved him a little and the two were back to laughing again. Full on laughter. Ended up playfighting until 1 A.M.. OJ was definitely ready to sleep.

“Goodnight paper…” he whispered. Paper just looked lovingly at him until he closed his eyes, and planted a soft kiss on his forehead. Sleeping had never felt so good in so long, OJ couldn't help but grin like an idiot in his sleep.

OJ had ended up waking up pretty late. 6 in the afternoon. By that time, the challenge should be coming to a close by now. He was more than excited to see Paper. To sweep him off his feet and cheer that he had gotten through the challenge. To reward him with flowers or gifts while taking him out to dinner. OJ prepared himself as fast as he can, even putting on his fanciest tie to greet his amazing husband. He went to Clover and Bomb’s garden to pick the prettiest flowers for papers. Marigolds, his favorite. OJ knew they had a meaning but he forgot it. They probably meant something happy though. They were so bright and vibrant and cheerful. He bought a whole bouquet and rushed to meet paper, that stupid grin still plastered on his face.

When paper came out of the area, OJ barely noticed how pale Paper's stripes were. Like way too pale to be normal. 

“Paper!” OJ grabbed Paper and lifted him into the air. Paper made a noise that sounded sort of like shock and joy all together. The two held each other into a loving embrace for a moment, until Paper pulled away suddenly, not able to look OJ in the eye. 

“Thank you OJ, for all of this but, there's something you should know…”

“What do you mean Paper?” OJ still had that clueless and goofy smile that Paper loved so dearly. Paper felt even worse now. OJ didn't seem to get it yet.

“Uhm…Test tube, she…almost died…”

Silence. Deafening silence. OJ carefully put Paper down and his smile had been wiped from his face, replaced with worry.

“Wh-How?!” OJ questioned. 

“Jack… He got eliminated and lost his temper a little and Test Tube fell… It was a complete accident.” OJ knew Paper was trying to protect Jack. Paper had too much empathy. OJ groaned and pinched the area between his brows. 

“Don't worry Paper. I'll handle it.” Paper nodded slowly and OJ just decided to take Paper to the hills to cheer him up. The flowers there were the most beautiful at sunset, and so was Paper. It was fitting. 

Even in the hills, Paper didn't seem cheered up yet. Like he couldn't stop thinking about what happened. OJ got a little frustrated. Paper needed to stop worrying so much. But deep down, he worried too… If people couldn't stay safe for one simple challenge, what would happen during the whole competition? 

Later that night, Paper snored loudly, as usual, with his hand on OJ's, like always. But OJ couldn't sleep. He kept thinking about it.

Is the OSC really doing its job? Ever since Poppy and the others came there it’s just…been so messy. 

How can Oj be a leader if he can’t keep the things in order like he said to do?

 How can Oj be a leader if he can’t protect others? 

How can Oj be a leader if someone almost dies? (A/N: Subtle foreshadowing LMAOOO)

How can Oj be a leader if someone does die?

 How can Oj be a leader when the person who dies is paper?

The thoughts were driving him mad. Sleep wasn't an option at this point. But brainstorming was…

Chapter Text

It was so early, yet OJ was up. He needed to host a meeting with the OSC to discuss the issue as soon as possible. He wrote each member their own invite by hand and went out to put them in front of their rooms. Now to wait.

1 hour passed. Nobody came yet. 

2 hours passed. Still, nobody was there.

Only after three hours did Cabbly roll in, while a drowsy Suitcase followed suit. 

“OJ what is this for?” Cabby said, angrily waving the letter in the air.

“There was an incident. During the challenge.” OJ replied. That’s what got the other’s attention. OJ spent the next 30 minutes repeating exactly what Paper had told him. Seems like my good memory really is useful, OJ thought proudly. Suitcase’s eyes grew wide with shock and Cabby was taking notes. 

“And, how we weren’t informed of this?” Cabby questioned. “This is insane! Someone could have died!” Suitcase just stood there as the two discussed it. How could this happen? The biggest fear that she and many others had is death and he was only seconds away from her death?

How could she possibly let this happen? Why wasn’t she there?

Things just had to get better in this society.

Better.

“Suitcase?” Oj said in a quick tone. “Oh! Sorry I just zoned out for a moment.” A smile plastered on her face. 

“Well we were just talking about making sure this incident never happens again,” Cabby replied. Oj fidgeted with his fingers 

The citizens were just acting completely irrational. If this continues something horrible could happen.

There just had to be a way…

He snapped his fingers, “We need more control in the O.S.C!” He announced with a slight amount of pride. The members looked at him. “Control you say?” Cabby said. “That doesn’t sound like a bad idea.”

“Like… more laws?” Suitcase asked. OJ snapped his fingers “Yes exactly like that!”

“I'm…not sure about that…what about everyone else, how would they feel?” Cabby remarked, preparing a file to put her notes in. The other two stared at her, seeming a bit confused.

“But..wouldn't they know that this is just for their safety?” OJ tried to reason with Cabby. Cabby thought for a minute and made a sound of agreement while nodding. The trio spent the next 3 hours figuring out new laws to put in place. They were a bit restrictive, but it was to keep the others safe. The new laws included things like using cameras, keeping a constant record, a curfew depending on where and what you do for work, increased security, meaning that the safety committee will have to work more and keep track of everyone. Mandatory checkups, and more. And definitely a scheduled trial for Jack in a few days.

“Im not sure the others will enjoy this but it's for their safety, so they'll surely understand.” The OSC looked satisfied at their work. But before they could put these laws down, they need people to side with them. It may not be the greatest way, but might be their best bet.

Chapter Text

Suitcase took her daily stroll. It was nice outside. Blue sky, calm breeze, fresh grass smell. The feeling of spring. But she wasn't just there for her stroll, she had work to do. She spotted Test Tube looking at her data, like always. The crack on her back made Suitcase wince a little. It was pretty uncomfortable to look at. Put everyone on edge, reminding them of the near death yesterday 

She approached Test tube with a forced smile on her face. 

“Test tube! I actually-” Suitcase was interrupted by a long sigh. Test tube turned around looking more tired than usual, pausing at the sight of Suitcase. 

“Hi Suitcase…” Test tube said in a tired voice. (A/N 2: Ts is why i selfship) “Do you need anything..?” Suitcase feels almost bad about asking. Test tube’s eye bags were more prominent than ever, and Test tube’s hands trembled like she hadn’t slept in days.

“I’d um…Like to ask you a favor,” Suitcase replied nervously. A bead of sweat slid down her side. Why was she doing this again? For safety reasons of course! She was doing it to protect everyone. It's her duty after all.

“Is it…okay for you to build a..uhh..camera for-” Testube interrupted Suitcase before she could finish her sentence.

 “Sorry, sorry, what was that?” 

Now no one was talking.

Just standing there together

“Y'know, ‘cause of the whole..falling thing..”

“Ohh! Right, right!”

Followed by some awkward laughter.

Let’s be honest here, nobody enjoyed this moment.

“I was just asking for you to build uh..cameras! Yeah cameras!” 

Test tube looked quite stunned for a moment but she managed to compose herself.

“Sure! I think I could get them to you in maybe a month or so.” Test tube tried to sound a bit cheerful. A trick that rubbed off on her from Lightbulb. She could never get the voice right though.

“Oh uh, thank you very much! I'll make sure to pay you back soon I promise!” Suitcase quickly walked away. Test tube only sighed. Gosh that was terribly awkward, and Test Tube was sure she wasn't that bad at social interactions. Either way, it was time for her to get to work.

Chapter Text

Cabby rolled along the sidewalk, reviewing her notes from the meeting earlier. After all the years of research she has done on everyone she knew nobody would like these new rules. Maybe they should be implemented slowly until it's the norm. Knowing everyone else, they are more likely to follow someone popular and likeable but, the OSC has all done something in the past that caused someone to not like them completely. There is only one person who nobody could truly hate. Clover. 

Clover was an anomaly that no matter how hard you tried, you could never dislike her. It doesn’t matter what, there’s always something likeable about her. Her luck, her personality, her kindness, her looks. And that’s why Clover will be helping with the project. 

The "Project,” didn't have a name yet but Clover will help with it. Cabby just needed to strike up a conversation. Maybe about the butterfly Clover was holding. Cabby didn't understand Clover's thing with butterflies but she didn't mind at all. It was Clover after all. How could Cabby not like something meaningful to Clover? Cabby took a deep breath, and rolled towards her.

“What a pretty butterfly you have there. What kind is it?” Clover flinched in surprise. She didn't notice Cabby behind her. She turned around and gave Cabby a warm smile.

“Not sure! It's super pretty though! Do you think you have something about it in your files?”

“Most likely,” Cabby responded, a bit eager to talk to Clover. “Let me check…” She opened her lower drawer and flipped through the files. “Ah here it is! The blue morpho! A pretty blue butterfly indeed! Fun fact: These butterflies symbolize healing and change!” Cabby knew butterflies in general also symbolized a soul's journey after death but that topic makes people uncomfortable nowadays. Cabby was very proud of her vast knowledge and her face definitely showed it. Clover stared at her in awe and admiration. 

“You really know your stuff Cabby!” Clover said enthusiastically. That may have added to Cabby's ego but it's always good to stay humble, Cabby reminded herself 

“Oh it’s nothing, I just like learning.” Cabby was next to Clover, watching the butterfly. It was really pretty in the sun. The two continued to chat and Cabby let it slip. 

“Actually, the OSC plans to introduce some new policies to protect everyone.”

“Really? What policies?” 

“Not much, just keeping better track of things and adding hours to the safety team. Simple stuff.” That wasn't all of it, but technically it's not a lie either. Cabby felt guilty anyway.

“Oh well that's great!” Clover said. “It probably would be better for the contestants!”

“Yeah, you're right…” Cabby felt a bit funny for leaving out some information. Almost solemn

“Is this like a private thing? I can keep a secret if you want.” Clover whispered to Cabby

“No. I don't mind if you talk about it.” Clover looked relieved after Cabby said that. Clover wasn't the type to keep secrets anyway. Cabby just smiled back and steered the conversation to some meaningless topic. Talking about the policies and leaving certain things out was basically lying. But it's for the good of the public. If it’s for the good of the public, a little lie couldn't hurt. The two continued talking till the sun came down.

“Woah, it's late. We should get back to the hotel before it's too dark. Come on, let's go.” Clover grabbed Cabby's hand and started pulling her to go back to the hotel. Cabby froze for a minute but followed, feeling a bit shy.

When the hotel doors swung open inside wasn’t the ones they were expecting. Cammy was just standing there looking a bit tired while ying yang was drinking Dr fizz on the couch.

“What are you guys doing here? Everyone should be asleep already.” Cabby asked. 

Cammy kept standing there until he shook his head 

“Oh well, I got a message from Mephone that he was going to give me extra luck! So here I am!” (A/N 2: Ts is a reference to smth)

…

“Oh…Kay..” Clover stepped away from Cammy still holding Cabbies hand. 

Cabby jumped when she realized she was still holding Clovers hand. She quickly let go of her. “I’m sorry clover for bothering you I-“

“Hey it’s all good Im fine with it!” Clover skipped upstairs 

“See you in the morning Cabby!” 

And then she was gone.

And then Cabby smiled a bit. 

She didn’t know why, she just did.

“Your just an idiot if you believe that!” Cabby snapped out of it when she heard Yangs voice shout at Cammy 

“Do not mock the great intentions of Mephone4! That is incredibly disrespectful of you-“

It was cut off by a punch and Cammy falling to the ground.

Oh my places where cabinets are created this gonna be a long night. And an even longer tomorrow. Yeah..Jack was going to trial tomorrow wasn't he..? Hopefully that works out.

Chapter Text

It was the day of the trial. They never had something like this before so getting roles was a bit difficult but roles were found nonetheless. Poppy, despite being new, was appointed as the judge since they could be considered neutral. The jury was made up of Clover, Marshmallow, the OSC (obviously), and the members of any team other than Jack's. Jack decided to represent himself. Fan guessed it was his pride. The people on Jack's team were witnesses and Fan was the prosecutor.

“It was an accident! Sure it was…bad but we all have our outbursts now and then?” Jack had a pleading look on his face. It wasn't genuine. Fan might not be the best at reading people but anyone could see Jack's insincerity.

Oh my god I can't stand this guy Fan thought scrunching his eyebrows. He looked at Test tube in the crowd and she was completely zoned out looking like she was going to fall asleep. That crack did a number on her. Which just made Fan even more guilty.

“Am I supposed to open this?” Poppy stated nervously. They obviously didn't know what to do. It's hard to believe this was the judge for the trial but it didn't matter now. All Fan wanted was to see Jack led away in handcuffs

Fan quit his zoning out instantly to see Poppy holding a file in her hand squinting a little bit.

“Yes. It’s evidence from the prosecutor-Fan,” OJ answered calmly. Upon hearing his name, Fan snapped out of whatever trance he was in and plastered a confident look on his face. Poppy flipped through the pages in the file with genuine interest. They were very dedicated to being a good judge despite not understanding most of what's going on. After a few minutes of thorough inspection of the evidence, including statements, a timeline, a description of the events, and pictures of Testube's injury. Fan still isn't sure how Testube survived the fall. But it's good she did and Fan managed to ‘blu-ray’ her before the crack could grow.

“Uhm…Jack!” Poppy began. “C-can you provide a detailed explanation of what happened?” Poppy stumbled on their words. Anyone would. It's hard being a judge without knowing who is in the right and who is in the wrong. It must be stressful. Jack began to speak. Fan could instantly notice the hyperboles and emotion in his speech. Jack had obviously never been to court. To be fair, he was trapped inside of MePhone for a long time but some knew more about what to do than others, that's for sure. Anyone who knows the basics of court should know that it's best to not put emotions into a description of events and instead should stay factual and analytical. Fan may have stayed up late studying a bit of law and just how court works in general. But nobody was extremely experienced in the complicated legal system in this new society, in a place everyone still needed to learn who they were. Fan already knows what he’s dedicated to: the show. He’s sure he’s found himself and is doing fine.

“Alright. It was the elimination and we all voted and then I got eliminated, and Fan here was talking about rejoining, board, whatever. And I was so clearly, clearly uncontrollably blinded by rage which caused me to uncontrollably have an uncontrollable outburst which caused me to uncontrollably throw something at test tube that was uncontrollable.” (A/N 2: im botta nut)

What an excuse that is… Fan thought crossing his arms. And he’s just using random words? 

Poppy smiled at him softly. “Well thank you for telling me Jack! What’s-“ They paused. 

“Can you inform me on your side of the story, Fan?”

“Of course.”

Fan described the situation and he’ll have to admit...maybe even exaggerated a few parts, But not as much.

The trial went on as any normal one. Witness statements, people saying objections a lot. Fan always found it a bit funny, when people scream the word out while slamming their hands down. It’s a bit excessive in his opinion. The jury trial went as normal. The jury discussed for a while but eventually came to the decision that Jack was guilty. That left a glimmer of satisfaction in Fan. Jack’s sentencing was scheduled to be held in the next two weeks. Too long… Fan thought. That was too long for him to wait. He wanted Jack to be sentenced now. He wanted justice. But he had no choice.

________________

The two weeks were up. It was finally time for Jack to get at least 3 years in jail. The moment he was waiting for. 

“U-uhm…The jury has decided on Jack’s punishment for aggravated assault…” Poppy began, their voice shaky and unsure since, again, they had never been a judge before. This whole society was extremely messy and disorganized, and it will probably take years for it to be run properly, but Poppy wasn’t the best option. Fan believed the OSC could do better but that was just Fan’s opinion. “Jack…is sentenced to 6 months in prison and…uh…730 hours of community service. Fan was hit with a colossal wave of disappointment. Jack deserved way more. Fan seethed with rage. He didn’t find it fair. But it wasn’t his decision to make. Compromise is such a fickle thing sometimes.

“Gosh I-I-I just don’t get it!” Fan stumbled over his words. A clear sign he was furious. Test Tube had stuck around long enough to know that. Test Tube didn’t mind Fan’s rants, even the angry ones, but this one was the worst. Fan went on and on about how Jack nearly Killed her and how he deserves a lot more and blah blah blah… Test Tube wasn’t the happiest with the sentence either. She had told Fan multiple times how the jury most likely pitied Jack since they knew he was probably under a lot of stress and whatnot. But Fan refused to listen and kept rambling. 

“Fan…Maybe you’d wanna continue tomorrow…” Test Tube was starting to have a headache. Fan finally saw her distress and actually paid attention

“Oh yeah, sure…you must be tired anyway. Have a good sleep!”

“You too…” Test tube sluggishly walked to her hotel room. Once she had finally made it to her bed, she remembered the camera. I should finish that tomorrow…

Chapter Text

Test Tube was intensely focused. The camera was almost finished. It’s been 3 days since Jack's imprisonment and Test Tube still wasn't done with the camera. Test Tube hadn't been feeling herself for the past couple days. But she was still alive, doing the thing she knew she loved, with the people she knew she loved. She continued into the night, her face inches from the camera. She was so close. She was just about to screw in the final part but the small screwdriver fell on the floor of her private lab. She finally got off of her chair and knelt over to find it. Damn thing…How is it so easy to lose? While searching under the table, Fan slowly walked in. 

“Hey uh…Test Tube, how are you doing?” Fan asked gently. Test Tube turned to him, a blank expression on her face. She doesn't know what she was doing to be honest. She should be asleep, not in her lab. She looked back up at the table and realized. She was working on the camera.

“Oh just working on something to help out the OSC!” She waved her hand dismissively. “Not much really. I think I'm almost done…” Fan looked concerned. Test Tube's long pause worried him. “Don't worry! Really! I'm doing rather nicely,” Test tube said reassuringly. Her tired face and crack and slightly trembling hands proved the opposite. 

“Want me to help out? I'm sure I can help out with the basics.” Fan's eyes were pleading. Test Tube just guessed he was worried and nodded. She didn't want him to stress out. It worries her when he does. 

“I am almost done though. I just dropped my screwdriver.”

“Oh let me help you find it then!” Fan bent over to help find it. It didn't take long for the two to find the screwdriver. Fan brought materials and some coffee to help out and Test Tube did all the building. Soon enough the two were done. Test Tube yawned loudly and turned to grin at Fan. Her eyes were still distant, as though the one helping was a stranger and not one of her most favorite objects. Fan did not like that look, but for Test Tube's sake, it was best not to point it out. She was struggling enough. Test Tube looked at her hard work with pride, looking happier than she had in a while. She wrapped her arm around Fan and pulled him into a tight squeeze. Fan was just happy she was returning to her old self a little bit. Sometimes he wondered if he wanted that for her or himself. Thinking about it made Fan uncomfortable. Thinking about it made him grapple with the thought that he is selfless and good or utterly selfish and bad. But that didn’t matter right now. What mattered was supporting Test tube through her recovery. 

“It’s pretty late, dont’cha think?” Fan asked, turning to Test Tube. His heart sank when he saw her. Her eyes were glazed over as if she was far away, or as if she didn’t know him at all. The sparkle in her eyes that Fan so dearly adored, was gone.

“Yeah I-I should be heading to bed now.” Test tube stood up and started heading up the stairs of her lab. Fan smiled at her and waved.

“Goodnight test tube.”

Test tube turned back. 

“Goodnight…I…uhm..” She sighed 

“Goodnight.” 

She walked up her stairs.

The hotel lights were dimly lit as Test Tube opened the door, stumbling in. She would head upstairs to her bed but this was different. She felt way too exhausted to even try to walk any longer. She flopped onto the couch covering herself in a warm blanket. 

She thought about…what was his name called? He was…was named…Why can’t she remember his name? They were best friends, how could she not…

Her mind started to unusually relax as she closed her eyes holding the slightly tear stained blanket in her hand tight. Maybe she could think about this later can she? Yeah…Maybe tomorrow…Maybe tomorrow.

Chapter Text

Clover happily chased the butterflies surrounding her. She was feeling good that day and decided to go out for a bit. After all that trial drama, she felt a bit uncomfortable and had to go. The attempted murder, the long speeches, the sentencing, it all made her upset. She did what felt right to her and went out to the field to get away from it all.

“Clover? What are you doing here?” Clover flinched is surprise. What was with people and showing up behind her unannounced? She recognized the voice as Pepper's.

“Oh hi Pepper!” She turned and put on her infectious smile. “I oughtta ask you the same thing!” Clover fidgeted with the grass in front of her.

“I just came here for a breath of fresh air.” Pepper sighed. “This whole thing is so stressful. I couldn't imagine going to prison. It's terrifying. And- Clover? Are you okay?” Clover sat with blank eyes and a smile that didn't reach her eyes. She wasn't listening. She didn't really care all that much. She just thought about all the pretty flowers around her. So beautiful. So delicate. They're rather interesting. Pepper snapped her fingers, making Clover flinch again. “Hello-ooo! Earth to Clover? Heyy-yy! Cloverrrr!” Clover snapped back to reality.

“Oh! I'm sorry. I'm just a bit tired ya know?”

“Yeah I get that. I'll be going now. Get some rest okay? Bye Clover.” Pepper turned to go back to the hotel. 

“Okay bye!” Clover waved and turned back to her butterflies and flowers. So pretty. It seems like it would be nice to live in one. That would be a nice home. 

______

Clover's not on Earth anymore. She's somewhere, just not here…Somewhere where the butterflies sing and dance and everyone lives in giant flowers. Or maybe in space having a tea party with alien friends. Or maybe in a magic amusement park with Cabby, showing her the joy of roller-coasters…Somewhere. Somewhere away from the wretched reality of the cruel. They don't exist. They never did. 

______

Clover stretched and got up to go back to the hotel. What an uneventful day. She chatted with people, mainly talking about what she did that day. She even said a few things about the new policies. She spoke well of them. Everyone knew to trust her. It was common knowledge at this point. She enjoyed her chats. Pepper looked at her strange but it probably didn't mean anything. She glided through the hallways, the air fleeing her presence and the world around her disappearing. She didn't really feel tired yet but she chose to lay down anyway. She stared at the ceiling, tracing nonexistent shapes with her finger. A bird, a plane, a butterfly, a wolf, a hare. She then let her finger follow the direction of the ceiling fan. Around and around, a neverending cycle. She looked to her left, then her right. The shapes formed by dark objects in the room resembled that of monsters, or maybe the OSC, she couldn't tell. She just closed her eyes. She did not want the privilege of sight at the moment. 

The grass flew and drifted in the wind, the air sweet and the flowers bright. The best reality that could be formed by a troubled mind isn't the best reality though. The sky was orange tinged with pink and yellow and the clouds matched it's glory. Clover pulled herself up and stepped down the hill. She kept going. And going…

And g

           o

             i

              n

                g

.

 .

  .

 There was no end, no fork in the path, just a continuous paradise that felt unreal. It was unnerving in a way. No place is this perfect. 

.

 .

  .

Finally, a fork in the path. A choice. One on the right was dark and depressing. But her friends were there. Clover couldn't understand why they would choose such a place to go. The other on the left showed the paradise she was previously walking in. It seemed much more appealing. It's a selfish choice. Clover turned to her friends, then the gorgeous clearing that could only be in a dream. Who wouldn't pick the obvious choice? Clover knew which one to pick. 

.

She turned left.

Chapter Text

“Lightbulb, how are you feeling right now?” Paintbrush asked. This was the 3rd time they asked today. Lightbulb had a slightly annoyed look on her face.

“Painty, I'm fine, really! Now calm down! With all the new policies or whatever, everyone should be safe!” Lightbulb patted Paintbrush on the back reassuringly. Paintbrush sighed and rubbed their bristles. It had been 3 weeks after these new policies had been implemented. Paintbrush found the cameras a bit invasive and the new work extra tiring but they didn't mind too much.

“Well you know with the whole…Test tube thing and the new polices it’s been a lot.”

Lightbulb sighed and muttered something under her breath. Paintbrush couldn't catch it but it seemed she was scolding them for being too worried all the time. Paintbrush didn't mind, they were currently interested in grabbing a bite to eat. Lightbulb had said she wanted to come too so they were going to the local restaurant. Paintbrush was lucky to get a reservation quickly enough. Besides the food there was delicious so it was worth the struggle.

“Hello! Welcome to Reality restaurant! Table for two I’m guessing?” Taco said. She called for Soap to usher the two to their table. 

It was a small table but still a good one. Lightbulb noticed the unusual amount of security cameras in the restaurant. It was probably nothing to worry about but it was still…weird wasn’t it? 

They sat down at their table.

“Painty, I didn’t think the new polices would include that much of security cameras…It’s like their watching us!” Lightbulb questioned looking at them suspiciously.

“Lightbulb, that’s the whole point of a security camera.”

“Oh. Well it’s still weird!"

Paintbrush hated to admit it because they worked for the OSC and saying stuff negative about would probably get them mad but Lightbulb was kinda right. If anything she was completely correct.

Candle approached them, graceful as usual.

“Here are your menus. Just call me if you have made a decision and I'll be there as fast as I can.” Then, she turned to wait on other tables. Lightbulb continues her rambles about mindless nonsense. Sometimes Baxter. Paintbrush didn't mind. They shouldn't mind. If they did, they would probably explode into flames as they've done countless times before. 

______

Lightbulb happily chopped away at her steak. Sometimes Paintbrush wonders how her teeth could rip through tough things so easily. Might be best not to find out. The steak Paintbrush had was OK. They didn't mind it.

“Ooh! Painty! I heard you would be working longer in your uhh…safety thing!” 

Paintbrush looked up from their plate and gave a dismissively wave.

“Yeah kinda… but I'll be fine, it's not that bad when you get used to it.” Paintbrush yawned and turned to leave the booth. “We'd better go now, I hear something is going to happen later and apparently everyone has to be there.

“Oh yeah! The QnA that was being hosted!” Lightbulb was already up and thanking Taco and the others for their service and was preparing to leave. Paintbrush scrambled after her. Lightbulb was so fast when she was excited and it was hard for Paintbrush to keep up with her. 

____

“Why’d you even install them?” Nickel asked.

“Well of course because of the whole…test tube incident.” Oj responded to him fiddling with his fingers 

“Isn’t this a bit of a stretch for one incident?” Soap raised an eyebrow. 

“Well of course, we need to take precautions for these kinds of things. Especially because we can die now,” Cabby hated the thought of death.

“I don’t believe Mephone would approve of these new policies you're giving out!” Did Cammy really have to bring Mephone into every conversation or what? 

“…” Honestly Suitcase was too stunned to continue speaking. 

“I can’t have an ounce of privacy anymore without you guys checking up on us!” Teddy bear crossed her arms annoyed.

“We'll uh… Since the society is new and all, it's best to keep them for now until we are a bit more experienced at this whole thing.

“So it's temporary?” Silver spoon called. 

“Exactly that!” Cabby did her best to reassure the crowd. Yin Yang stepped forward to the front of the crowd.

“This is absolutely insane! We don't need all of these safety precautions just because of one idiot!” Yang yelled. 

“Though not as violently, I'm going to have to agree with Yang.” Yin mumbled. Yang continued to shout and move forward and pushing the barrier between everyone else and the OSC. 

“WHAT DO YOU THINK WE ARE?! JUST BECAUSE YOU WON PREVIOUS CHALLENGES DOESN'T GIVE YOU THE RIGHT TO TREAT US LIKE BARBARIANS!!” Yang yelled louder.

“I agree! I am not a barbarian after all! I demand better treatment!” Silver Spoon added. More voices decided to speak up.

“Everyone settle down,” OJ said smoothly. His voice was merely a whisper among all the angry voices. Suitcase looked at the others nervously. This was not how it was supposed to be.

“Step back please!” Paintbrush stood in front of Yin Yang to stop them from pushing past the barricade. Yin didn't say anything, and Yang wouldn't listen and kept screaming of unfairness. “I said STEP BACK PLEASE!” Paintbrush yelled back at Yin Yang and sparks emerged from their bristles as they shoved Yin Yang away. Yin Yang tumbled to the ground seething.

“DO YOU SEE WHAT I MEAN?! We are not violent heathens! They just assaulted me in public and we're not going to do anything about it?!” Yang gestured towards Paintbrush who was breathing heavily in anger. More voices called out from the crowd. 

“This is an outrage!”

“You can't do that!”

“What is this society turning to?!”

OJ couldn't settle the crowd. He turned his microphone's volume to the max.

“QnA dismissed! Everyone go back to your residence immediately!” The crowd was furious now but still did as they were told, many of them grumbling angrily as they moved back to the hotel. Paintbrush tried to catch up with Lightbulb, Fan, and Test Tube but stopped themselves. They most likely had to talk with Suitcase about their behavior. It was such a stupid thing to do but nonetheless Paintbrush had done it anyway and had to face the consequences. But now things felt a bit different. A shift in the air, a change in the mood, the color of the sky changing to a dusty gray. Something was off.

If basic words couldn't stop the others, how long would it take for them not to be stopped at all?

Chapter Text

“Yang, what was with all that? Was that really necessary?” Silver Spoon asked. It was a bit early in the morning but both needed some fresh air.

“It was a stand up against the stupid government, for their stupid policies, which are stupid!” Yang replied.

“I don’t know why you have to cause a scene all the time!” Yin yelled.

“Okay, okay,calm down,” Silver Spoon started. “I agree with you but the provoking was not needed.” Silver yawned and slumped over. “Do you know why they’re doing all of this? It feels excessive.” He sighed. “Gosh, I need a coffee…Maybe they have some at Reality Restaurant?”

“I don’t think so…” Yin replied. “Maybe there’s a coffee machine at the hotel.”

“Oh whatever. I'm not that tired anyway.” Silver Spoon obviously did not want to go back to the hotel. There was tension in every corner and everyone felt awkward.
The OSC had increased security after yesterday’s incident and Paintbrush was “taking a break.” It was so unnerving to Silver he had to get out for a moment.

There was nothing to do. Silver was pretty sure the competition was canceled so the OSC could make sure it was safe, and the competition was all anyone had for some real entertainment.

“We're going back to the hotel,” Yang said abruptly. Silver turned to look at Yin Yang with confusion. He knew that they were uncomfortable too, yet they were going back. It was strange to him

“Okay… Do what you want I guess…” Silver waved as Yin Yang walked away. It was a bit frustrating to have nobody to complain to. There was one person he knew he could talk to though: Candle. She would know what to do. She'd most likely be at the volcano though. She had been going there a lot more lately. But Silver Spoon didn't have anything better to do, so he went towards the volcano.

_______

A few more steps to get to the top. Silver took a deep breath and climbed up. Dear god how did candle have the patience to climb this volcano?

“Sliver.” Candle said not turning back at him.

“Haa…” Sliver tightened his grip on the volcano top breathing heavily
“How do you climb this? It’s, ngh, it’s so tall!”

Candle offered him a hand and he gladly tugged up, wiping the dirt off himself.
“It's called a volcano. Also why do you need me?”

Oh right. Those policies. Silver Spoon sat next to candle crosslegged and sighed.

“Well you know…the new policies that the OSC installed, it's just non-essential you know? Like a complete invasion of privacy!”

“I can agree with that. It is quite understandable but a little unnecessary?”

“Exactly!” Silver said enthusiastically. Candle always understood everything. Silver was glad to know he had someone to rely on and talk to. “Exactly what I am saying, Candle! Thank you! How can anyone expect me to keep calm under these… polices!” Silver hugged his legs closer to himself. He hated the thought of being watched 24/7. He hated the thought of cameras watching him all the time. Because behind every camera was someone watching him. Analyzing him like a damn lab rat. It reminded him of one of his least favorite challenges when Mephone was around. He didn't want to be seen at his weakest points, or his ugliest points. Candle opened her eyes and gave him a soft look. When Silver saw that indescribable look, he went cold. What was it? Understanding? Concern? Pity? He straightened up back to his confident self, suddenly changing the subject to something else.

______

“Guys please calm down! You are stressing the others out! And personally Bonesaw as well!” Bonesaw continued trying to calm OJ and Yin-Yang down. They were screaming violently at each other. Yang hurled insults while Yin tried to convince OJ to listen to the others and that these policies aren't helping. Yang overpowered Yin and continued yelling at OJ. Bonesaw couldn't do anything.

“AND IF YOU WEREN'T SUCH A PARANOID RICH DOUCHE, WE WOULDN’T HAVE TO BE HERE!” Yang screamed.

“IF YOU COULD STOP TRYING TO CAUSE ISSUES AND MAKE EVERYONE UPSET WE WOULDN’T BE HERE! HAVE YOU THOUGHT ABOUT THAT?” OJ yelled back. The screaming was so loud others could hear from upstairs. Bonesaw backed away because he felt something bad would happen if he tried to interfere any more.

“Bonesaw doesn't understand,” Bonesaw said to Tea Kettle. “Bonesaw thought Yin-Yang was going to have a respectful chat.”

“I don't get it either,” Tea Kettle whispered. Normally she could handle things like this, but this was different.

Yin-Yang took a step forward. Yang started to try and apologize.

“GET AWAY FROM ME!” OJ clenched his hand into a fist, seemingly ready to fight. “If you do not back up immediately…I'll have you detained…” The others were stunned. Yin seemed hurt. Yang was furious, then calm.

“I won't stand for this. Nobody will.” Yang said.

“We'll just go,” Yin muttered. They turned to walk out. They suddenly turned back to look at a furious OJ.

“You try anything, it means war.” Yang said. Bonesaw's eyes darted between the two. War? There's no way.

Then again, there's always a chance.

Chapter Text

The objects on Yin Yang’s side followed them out to the mansion.

“How did you get Bow to agree to letting us stay in the mansion?” Yang asked.

“Being kind has its perks, Yang.” Yin replied. “Maybe you could actually do that instead OF CAUSING ISSUES LIKE THIS!MAYBE THEN WE WOULDN’T BE HERE IN THE FIRST PLACE!” The two started yelling at each other again. Knife sighed heavily behind them. He only joined the rebels because he was mad at the OSC as well. Despite being a ghost and all, he was still part of the society and thought the policies were stupid.

“Psst, Marshmallow,” Knife whispered. Marshmallow flinched. Oh yeah… she still hasn’t gotten over the whole murdering thing. “How much longer do you think this walk will take?”

“You don’t even have legs…” Marshmallow replied quietly.

“Yeah I know but you know what I mean-”

“We’re here!” Apple yelled as the group approached the mansion. Marshmallow, Apple, and Knife were around to make sure the rebels made it to the mansion. Also Knife was 25% sure the OSC would retaliate somehow.

The plan was to basically boycott the hotel so that the OSC would get the message and fix everything. Simple enough.

“Ahem…so uh…is this place exactly safe?” Lifering asked.

“Perfectly safe!”Apple cheerily replied. “Me and Marsh have been in it for a while and it holds up pretty well!”

“We'll, everyone in. We'll have to find out how to make space for you all…” Knife floated inside of the mansion. When he went inside, he found Bow sitting on the couch watching TV as usual.“Hey Bow. I brought them.”

“Oh! Pfft, finally! You can go anywhere but don’t get the couch dirty.” Bow barley glanced in their direction.

The group settled down at the place, some took in the new sight of the awfully dusty and chilly mansion that nobody really enjoyed, but they had to stay here for about what? A week? Besides, it’s for a good cause, it's not like a whole war's gonna break out because of some dust.

“Despite the condition of this place, Mephone would want us to defend ourselves and boundaries!” Cammy chimed in. Lifering gave him a funny look. Cammy was always strange.

“You seriously still believe in that Mephone God shit?” Teddy bear angrily said, rolling her eyes.

“Would you stop with that blasphemous talk you always say to me? Its incredibly disrespectful.”

“I'll show you disrespect if you keep talking to me like that!”

And they started arguing like they always do. This could probably go for hours unless someone interferes or they get tired of it. This is gonna be a long week. Knife sighed to himself and turned to the others.

“Yeah yeah whatever here.” He threw a large bag filled with sleeping bags, hygienic supplies, etc. He just needed them to shut up.

“Do we not get beds?” Blueberry asked with a slight hint of anger in his voice. “An alpha shouldn't sleep on the floor.” Knife stayed silent. He glanced at Lifering who just shrugged.

“Listen…This isn't the hotel. Sleep on the floor or sleep with cameras around.” Blueberry had a disappointed look on his face buy didn't argue any further. Good, Knife thought. I'm too tired to deal with this.

_____

“What do you mean they left?!” Suitcase was so frustrated. How could everyone else just leave? They were just trying to protect them. The only objects left in the hotel was Fan, Test Tube, Paintbrush, Clover, Paper, Lightbulb, Poppy, Metag, Magnet, Salt and Pepper. Silver Spoon and Candle weren’t even at the other location the others were. Silver said they are going away from everyone entirely.

“You said Yang threatened war right?” Cabby interrupted Suitcase’s train of thought.

“Yes! I couldn't believe it!” OJ responded. “To think he would threaten war over us protecting them is crazy” OJ seemed to be getting angrier by the second. Cabby scribbled notes down.

“Where could they have gone though?” Cabby questioned. “I haven't seen them anywhere.” OJ fidgeted with his hands, trying to think about where they possibly have gone. Knowing them, they had to hiding in some sort other building, probably with no cameras. So he ruled out the forest, hospital, and restaurant. They couldn't gone to Meeple headquarters. That's when it popped up in his mind.

“Maybe the Mansion!”he called. The other two looked at him, realization dawning on their faces. They nodded in agreement and moved on with the meeting.

They'll figure things out, they were previous winners in the 3 seasons of Inanimate Insanity. They always figure things out.