Archive of Our Own

“Urgghhh, a museum of all things? Seriously, Wiz-?”

“Of course, my boy!”

Nabiu was ecstatic for today!

Today on this very special day, Wizzro planned a special trip for everyone, which she was incredibly excited about!

Unlike SOME PEOPLE.

Nabiu couldn't understand why some people are bored by all this magnificent research and text and LITERALLY EVERYTHING.

A place full of old relics, history and more, getting new artifacts to this day about the old crystal formations, immortality and the idea of reviving after your death!

Imagine the possibilities! The amount of extinct beasts they could revive and study, finally bringing them back to the living world to be happy!

And, and- the plants! ALL THE PLANT LIFE AND F R U I T S.

There was just so much to do, she couldn't help but jump up and down in excitement, stimming heavily with her arms by flapping them around like a bird.

A happy laugh escaped her lips as she readjusted her hat, not letting it slip off that easily with the sun shining down on them all.

Almost like it was warning them, showing that they all would burn someday.

Not too different from the angry Moon! It probably just needs a bit of kindness.

Waitshewasforgettingthesubject-

It was truly the museum trip of a lifetime for the blueberry and she even had a book in her pouch, just in case she needed to write down ALL THIS INFO!

THERE WILL BE SO MUCH HISTORY!!!

Luckily, this was another book she bought just for this occasion. Wouldn't want the other one to get full from all this precious knowledge!

With a hop and a jump between all the interns, getting only a few gasps and grumbles, she strolled over to Karoto with the brightest smile she owns.

“Oh, Karoto! How could you not be excited????”

Nabiu barely avoided running right into Karoto, getting a surprised yelp out of her brotherly carrot as he readjusted his scarf once again.

Gripping it like a lifeline as always, fixing a phantom mess that was never even there.

The expression was definitely one of faint annoyance, even if he didn't seem to let it show in front of her.

Bless his unlocked heart!

“Look, not everyone is excited for a crusty old building-”

“IT'S NOT CRUSTY.”

“Come on, you two-”

The small bickering fell reluctantly as Wizzro's voice cut through all the whispers and chattering, getting the full attention of those little critters she called friends and he interns.

“Even if the museum is indeed old, there's nothing wrong with learning more about the world, my dear children. Even if it's a bit boring!”

Brocco - who decided to come along too, even with the armor - chimed in as well, holding the old M.A.G.E's shoulder with a lovely fondness.

“Indeed. Especially with what this museum has to offer in terms of…knowledge.”

That reply had a hint of hesitancy to it, one that was obvious from those fiddling fingers and the absent stare behind the mask.

Nabiu could easily note it. People hide their tone and voice for the most part, but the body truly reveals a lot in other regards!

Usually what she can pinpoint on Karoto too.

It helps a lot with helping the poor carrot.

So, the little blueberry decided to hop over to the valiant broccoli as they slowly approached the giant museum in all its 10.028 brick and 4 banner glory.

“Is there anything bad about knowledge?”

Of course, he flinched, but a reluctant sigh seemed to be there to give her an answer that his words won't fully give.

The fiddling continued too. Those hesitant words and choked up truths just spilled out to Nabiu's observant eye.

“No, it's…just that there's sometimes-..you know...they put on war exhibits. Not the, uhm-

Oh.

Ooooohhh-

Yeah, that's a touchy subject for a guard-

Before the big guard could speak up with those melancholic words, the loyal M.A.G.E made sure to grab his hand and talk over his thoughts.

It always helped to have a little child along the ride, so she shan't fail him now!

“No worries! I get what you mean, sir Brocco.”

And a swift slip up to the arm gave him a comforting pat too, even if he may not feel it with the armor.

“You don't need to talk about it!”

Nothing at first…

But the blueberry knew she succeeded when that nervous frown turned into a soft smile, lifting up that cold helmet to show it off to the world.

Soft, warm and even with the scars just as beautiful! Natural as weeds and flowers.

Good! Wouldn't want to make him all depressy messy by accident.

Nabiu was quietly averting her attention to the other Interns though, noting boredom, interest and curiosity in their gazes, not unlike Karoto's.

Whispering along, wondering why this trip was so important, though Mono did seem interested as he stuttered and whispered to others.

Tate was restrained by another child to not take the masked kid's mask.

Sometimes, she wondered why they weren't so interested in this ancient history as she was.

They would know so, soooo much.

Soon enough though, they truly did stand before the building, showing its usual banners for the special crystals this land holds, with all their mystery and secrets.

Looking around, there were some people already there-! A class, some vegetables and fruits, species running around freely and a bird biting a rat person.

So was her world, filled with life and color, those sweet laughters of children running around and the smell of sweet nectar coming around, with the flowers walking as well.

Yet she was most interested in the surrounding area of the property.

Lots of trees, plants, mushrooms and even some extremely rare reflective leaf trees were planted around the old house, having been grown there as a nice addition.

One of the only living things seeming to survive from that era, having been found dying….

Luckily, some seeds survived, so this old masterpiece of a tree now has a good chance of surviving and growing around the world!

While it was of course somewhat cracked and old, there was a certain charm to it, its special ability being to act like a mirror and show the whole rainbow in it.

Some say that eating such a leaf would explode your eyes in rainbows.

Gleaming white and silver adorned the tree, the lines right on it actually showing the age, this one being just 2 years old!

It's even better when the floral grows and-

“Hey Ping-pong, Wizzro's explaining things.”

A h-

Forgot the world exists!

“Coming!”

Nabiu catched that smirk from Karoto for a moment as she passed by him, giving a nice smile back as they walked along the hot stones that were strewn across the floor.

“Alright, Interns! Remember to behave throughout this trip. After all, it wouldn't be good if we broke anything.”

At least there was interest now, chattering dying down as Wizzro kept talking, making sure they didn't take up the path too much.

“Stay together! We need to make sure we don't lose anyone by accident, besides if an adult is with them!”

As Wizzro talked on and on about the safety and regulations while holding Brocco's hand, the little blueberry gave a glance to the bored carrot.

It was nice to listen to her mentor, but she could understand why Karoto of all people wasn't interested.

Not like he ever did truly care for all this old folklore-

Hm, wouldn't want him to walk off or randomly get bored during all this…no, that wouldn't do at all!

Maybe…

Ah!

A grin rose onto her blue cheeks, tapping the carrots sides and getting his attention with a notable hum.

So, the excited blueberry tried her best to convince him, tapping her feet against the ground.

“I think there's a cafeteria in the mu-”

“O H?”

There we go!

Too easy, even if she didn't want to admit it under her soft snickers.

“Mhm! They got applesauce and I think cake too? The potato stew is amazing there!”

Sometimes, she had to admit that Karoto was quite easy to make happy, especially if you mention food.

That stare that he gave was the same he gave to every response that included yummy things, not needing to speak words to show emotions.

Reassuring herself that she now has an opportunity to teach him things on the side, she continued on her speech, tilting that little fruit head of hers.

“You want to check it out in a separate group?”

The carrot gave a side-glance, looking as if they were about to commit the most complicated crime of all existence, blinking and letting Nabiu copy that look.

Their faces darkened, whispering and putting their fists together in a hard-core grip that probably hurt for both, putting on their most serious faces.

“Let's do it.”

“What are you two doing?”

And right with that sentence, their faces brightened up, nervously sweating and returning to their position, Karoto rubbing the back of his head and tapping his feet-

While Nabiu adjusted her cloak absently, looking at that really interesting bird in particular, really non-existent.

“NOTHING. I mean-”

“Well, we did want too-”

“SHUSHHH.”

Aggressively bringing a finger over to her lips was probably the clearest message for her big brain, especially overfilled on excitement and info.

Though admittedly, both chuckled in the end, causing the old M.A.G.E to be happy nonetheless.

“Well, as long as you both are ready to go. Come on now.”

Brocco gave a hefty sigh, patting Nabiu's back as they proceeded onward while still keeping close to Karoto.

A wink was what she caught and a wink is what he got right back.

“Pssstt-! Naabiuuuu-!”

Blinking was a whole other task entirely, doing exactly that as she noted who was talking to her as they walked across the rocks, finally going up to the beautiful museum.

Tilting her head, she noted that it was Cyle, the little intern fox who was wagging his tail left and right, brushing it around his own cloak.

“Hmmmm?”

She hummed a response right back, halfly not listening, her dots for eyes moving up to the building while the fox asked his question

“Do you think we can touch the relics-?

“WHATNOWHYWOULDYOUMHPNFFH-”

“SHHHH. I was just asssskinnngg-!”

SHUTTING HER MOUTH WASN'T STOPPING HER SHOCK.

Nabiu had been utterly flabbergasted! Who would want to ruin these precious artifacts?

THEIR OLD. PRECIOUS.

HOWCOULDTHEY.

“Hey, I'm sorry- I didn't mean to make you upset-!”

“Good job at that, Genius.”

Perhaps her pout was too obvious, but the gentle pats coming from the carrots gloved hand did help comfort her despite everything.

She only gave a small sad nod in reply to Cyle's apology, her world shattered for about two seconds.

Dwelling on things wasn't her thing and hey!

THEY WERE IN THE MUSEUM!!!!!

And indirectly, she was noting every single detail like a hungry bookworm, even if they weren't even at the attractions yet!!

The floor was of white marble, having those little brown patterns and lines that adorned the entire floor of the lobby with its plates, being a straight line and a huge center area!

In the center area as she could see, there was a giant, brown, mechanical ball, seeming to have rusted but settling itself on a circular platform keeping it in.

Almost like one of those bubble bottle mini games, where you have to get the ball in. Just a bigger version!

Chandeliers were on the ceiling with pillars adorning the walls, some glasses here and there with info, also having heard that the ball too has everything you need-

And the doors on the side of this giant hallway were leading to the many sections!

Dear Nantes, it was all she wanted and MORE!

Having the time of her life included constantly jumping up and down too, holding her book and not restraining an ounce of her personality.

Maybe some people looked towards her, BUT SHE DIDN'T CAREEE!!!

That was their problem and not hers.

Before she could run off into whatever direction or perhaps to that ball over there though, a hand kept the blueberry from running from that specific spot.

“Nabs, can we spare the zoomies for later?”

“A w e.”

A soft chuckle got her out of her pouty state, hearing the interns chatter to themselves as Brocco and Wizzro approached them with a rather calm attitude.

They were the sweetest people she ever met after all and whatever they have to say could be important.

“I see that you probably want to explore the Museum in your own way, my dear girl!”

A quick nod left her as Wizzro kneeled down, his coat sprawling over the floor like a puddle as he put his hand comfortably on her shoulder.

His hat provided a big shadow too, keeping the light out of her fragile eyes.

“I don't blame you…but I would prefer if someone went with you, just so you're not alone!”

Glancing over to Brocco, the old M.A.G.E nudged invitingly for the broccoli to talk, such gaze setting some simple standards that the other should provide.

Even if Brocco reluctantly let out a sigh, seeming a patient kind of nervous as he looked towards the carrot bard to her left.

Said Carrot was staring intently at the map, most notably the cafeteria.

Just then he seemed to notice that he was being stared at, his head turning over with a confused stare.

Brocco took that as his cue to announce his idea.

“Karoto, would you wanna stick with Nabiu? Even if you aren't too…keen on this kind of thing?”

The heavily restrained groan was not hidden by the way Karoto moved. at all.

Those huffy movements, the way he looked away with a questioning gaze that said ‘Oh dear god’, fumbling with his fingers and making those fists before responding-

“Uh-Huh. Sure. History. Y a y.”

Nabiu didn't blame him for once, already seeing that unmotivated stare as he stuffed his pockets full of gloved hands, looking over to his blueberry friend.

It made it all worth it as that soft gaze was still there, just for her.

Now that the Carrot was finally standing right beside her, Wizzro gave a simple at to her head as reassurance.

“Now then! I hope you two have fun together. If you need anything, just alert me through screaming loudly or using your crystal display!”

Nabiu nodded furiously, shaking her head as if her life depended on it, grabbing for that little blue piece of glass, only a few cracks residing in it.

Minimal damage was a good thing!

“Guess I resort to screaming.”

A bare shrug came from the bard, who didn't seem to care at all about what could happen to them in a museum.

They could get pierced by the model spears! Or the lights could fall off! OR PEOPLE VANDALISING THE DRAWINGS!

So many worries that only this little blueberry could imagine.

But in the end, one final nod was exchanged before the two old men finally turned around, waving off to the two with their respective smiles.

“See you soon, you two!”

“Don't break anything-

“Yeah, don't break a leg, Tin can!”

“Byeee!’

Waving them off, Nabiu smiled towards Karoto, noting the attempt to not look back at her with that mildly unamused stare.

Or annoyed. She wasn't good at social cues.

Both didn't seem to make clear eye contact for almost a straight minute, staring either off to somewhere or right at the other.

Before one decided to break the silence.

“...Alright, Alright. Show me around-”

“WOOHOO!”

With a strangled gasp from the carrot, the blueberry grabbed him by the arm and dragged him off to the first of many sections-

As all of them were open and available.

O f cou rse.

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[LOADING MUSEUM SECTION 1] . . .

[Tip: Some areas hold special secrets! Look around more to find them and look through their treasures, even if it might mean stronger enemies!]

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“Isn't this AMAZING??”

“Yeahhhh…Amaaazing…”

Nabiu didn't mind the sarcasm as she happily walked through the first section, her excitement off the roof as she had been rambling for the last hour.

They were at the starting section, a simple introduction to the delight of these crystals and having a short history lesson to get the basics.

And while the blueberry wrote every single detail in doodles and words, Karoto wondered why he was here in the first place.

He barely dodged several people, sighing and going beside the little M.A.G.E as he looked upon a specific stature.

A crystal grown to complete fruition, big and tall in blue shine, mixing with its purple reflection and alighting the room in color.

“So….what are these crystals all about?”

Karoto didn't expect Nabiu to snap her head over, excited eyes staring into his soul, as if she had been told that there was a zoo.

“OOOHHH, I CAN TELL A LOT! COME WITH ME!!!”

Being unceremoniously grabbed by her was probably not in the carrots list of expectations, but the little blueberry didn't care too much right now!

Because they were gonna walk through this section while she was rambling her hat off!

So, she began while looking through her doodles.

“The crystals are actually quite an important part of our history, as the old folk seemed to find naturality in them! They grew even before people found them!!”

She pointed towards several crystals, walking over to them and absently waving to a beer and a little blue cube right beside them.

Even if the cube seemed less than amused and the beer glared at Karoto.

Which the carrot swiftly avoided by averting his gaze nervously.

“You see, they grew everywhere and were able to do a lot of things, hence the many sections!”

She flipped through, giving a quick high-one to the robot-armed friend as she kept walking, bard speeding up beside her.

“Food, Nature, jewellery, monsters, clothing, religion and the most important part…a form of immortality!”

That finally got the vegetable to perk up, eyes going wide as he let his gloved hand leave his pocket and raise towards his non-existent chin.

“Immortality-?”

“Mhm!”

An insisting nod came, strutting towards an icicle and a broccoli with a suspicious cloak next, which she promptly ignored while accidently bumping into them-

“Oh, my apologies!!!”

The figure in cloak stared in heavy nervousness, seeming…almost recognizable.

But the icicle, which she faintly remembered was a guard from the King - what a coincidence - was sighing, staring with no real emotion.

“It's…fine. Just don't bother us.”

“But uhm-”

The figure interrupted for a moment, absently patting the finely dressed icicles head, the size difference immense, giving a soft smile.

While Karoto gave a weirdly suspicious state.

“You were rambling, yes? You were a bit loud, maybe you could educate my little friend here?”

A gasp escaped her throat and she nodded eagerly, nearly pushing the two figures away as she was ready to spill history.

For a moment, she checked if everyone was listening, which did involve some other figures like a fungus staring up, but she began speaking.

“The crystals were said to raise your age limitations, giving you more years and maybe even letting your corpse stay clean of rot for longer!”

There was a faint ignorance to the gag that came from her side, replaced by everyone's gasps instead.

“Only a few side effects came too- Crystalizing maybe a finger or a part of your hair. It was almost like a piece of yourself needed to vanish for new opportunities to arrive…”

Flipping her book was easy, even writing along with that same smile.

Dear Nantes, she adored the tales of this land.

“Stories say that the old folk was dedicated to the Moon and the Lightning, both shining their light around the world and onto these special crystals.”

Truly, these tales were held dear.

“But as the old folk moved on to the sky above, so did the interest in these crystals.. .their knowledge slowly fading and only now resurfacing anew!”

Nabiu looked up to the statue, showing a few people standing below a figure that seemed to be the moon, surrounded by what seemed to be lycans.

A voice peaked through, that being of the icicle as he raised a brow.

“And what about…the lycans…?”

He hummed gently and Nabiu was happy to bring her book over, just so they both could see the doodles.

“Many people theorize that the lycans may be related to the lightning myth, maybe even being related to the crystals or going along the lines of Sirius, the dog star. Also called in Latin ‘Canis Major’, which is said to be ‘the Big Dog’, truly-”

“Nabiu, I admire your passion, but you're getting off-track.”

Only a sad pout was received by the bored carrot, but she decided to continue on the history anyway.

“Well, to end it all- Some say that the crystals were actually a curse, as immortality isn't the nicest thing. But it was still used in everything!!!”

“How can food taste good like that? Do the crystals work like salt?”

A fungus interrupted, which she remembered to be the Cook Pfifferling, somehow having her pet Verdog Petunia with her.

Well, maybe the good girl wants to learn history too, even if most people flinched away and Karoto got before her with a gasp.

At least people would protect her!

“Well, yeah! It's usually only eaten for tradition, festivals or rituals for longer life though. Some Mage's and testers said that the weaker crystals that don't induce longer life taste like Sugar rocks!”

“Huh. So a dessert dish…i see.”

The fungus hummed and nodded, stepping away and back into nowhere as she looked at other attractions.

Though soon, the room slowly filled with clapping, giving a good happy cheer to the girl that decided to be a tour guide.

“Ah, well- Thank you, little girl. I appreciate the info.”

The broccoli hummed…but gently nudged the icicle, who looked confused for a moment before silently huffing, reluctantly hugging themselves.

“...Thank you. I guess.”

“Good job.”

Gentle giggles left the big.vegetable as they proceeded onwards, leaving the two adventurers back to their devices, quietly getting a sigh out of Karoto.

“Well, guess that catches me up to date.”

There was a certain happiness inside Nabiu as she looked through her book, sitting down on a bench.

Watching all these statues, experiencing the history of this museum over and over since she was much younger-

It was a delight. A true delight in the form of her own satisfaction.

Though, only one thing saddened her.

And that came from the question that Karoto came to ask her as he sat down right beside her, taking a small look around with his hands on his knees.

“So, uhm. What's youuuurrrr…favorite section?”

She appreciated the effort he had been making, truly.

A silent sigh couldn't help but escape her, lowering her head and surprisingly, grasping at her yellow hat and putting it down on her lap.

“There…is an attraction that's currently being rebuilt. Or rather, repaired due to a weird incident- Not sure what it was.”

It was a fond memory that crossed her, entering it with her parents, cousins and friends, a delightful area that she held close to her.

To have to be told that it isn't available right now due to repairments-

Innerly, there was a silent grief in that little of hers.

“Oh, hey-! It's…it's okay. Talk to me.”

With the best efforts in his heart, the bard silently rubbed his sibling-figure’s back, hearing those faint sniffles and comforting her.

Nothing much helped there, but Nabiu appreciated it nonetheless.

Deciding to at least spill something, she decided to speak while wiping her eyes, gripping onto the fabric of her hat.

“When- When I had...When I was much younger, there was a place called the Starry Sanctuary, a cylinder-shaped room with hundreds of patterned drawings-”

Nabiu remembered it like yesterday.

….

…..

…

.

“Mama! LOOOOK!”

“Oh, my dearest-! Don't run so fast!”

One day, a small blueberry went with her family to a giant museum, newly built for the enjoyment of many.

It told the stories of crystals and legends, speaking of endless possibilities and a religion that went to all that glitters and shines.

And this little blueberry found their beloved place at a place of drawings all lining up in a section, going up and up, all around.

It was a lined, repeating pattern going upwards, but all with different drawings, some portraying stars, some vegetables and some fruits, hands being below, and at the very top?

A globe portraying the moon, purple clouds and stars all around it, shining down on them, letting the dark of the room be alighted by these miracles.

And the porcelain forming crystal patterns made of mosaic made it all the prettier, stepping around and admiring the fine art this place had.

Truly, the people must have adored making this piece of love.

Gentle chuckles came from behind them, her sweet mother leaning down and cradling her small form, letting her look up to the sky.

A strange warmth filled their chest, filling it with a sense of comfort that was never there before.

As if this little blueberry was protected the moment she stepped in.

“Oh, Nabiu. You always have such a sweet fascination with things!”

Another laugh came from behind and she recognized it as her fathers, faintly letting the voices fade away as if the white drawings of the room were just for her.

And her alone.

For a moment, she thought-

That the moon stared down at her, looking like a Blueberry itself.

Giving a sweet smile.

And in the darkness, only being brought to light by the shine of the celestial being itself-

Nabiu couldn't help but smile right back.

.

….

…..

…

.

“Damn.”

Nabiu restrained a choked snort at the blank response Karoto gave.

In a way, it was a cheer up that only he could truly provide, one that helped due to its pure blankness of emotion.

Even if in just a second, panic brewed right onto that expression, grabbing onto her shoulder and rubbing it in a nervous manner.

“I MEAN- Oh, that's- terrible. Really. That you can't visit that…hm.”

Almost as if a thinking bubble appeared above his head, the blueberry looked over to see that iconic yet dangerous smirk plaster onto the thief’s face.

“Or can we?”

“No.”

“Awe, come on-”

“NO.”

“It'll be fine, no one will see!”

Nabiu was pretty sure there was security and cameras around that place and she was NOT about to find out if that was true or not.

But that stare, oh, that stare. It told so many emotions and thoughts, once that could be deciphered by her knowledge.

She wasn't stupid.

She was very well aware of what Karoto was capable of when he was serious.

And that smirk remained as he kneeled down to her level, putting a more comfortable hand on her shoulder.

“Nabs. Paintball. My dearest sister. It'll be a short in and out trip. Five minutes maximum.”

With the loudest sigh society has ever heard, she stared back at him with a knowing stare.

“Karoto, last time you said that, you were trauma-dumped by some shape-shifting blobs.”

“OY.”

Nabiu silently snickered at the glare, still gripping her head in a strange way of comfort.

…Yet, her friend silently intertwined their fingers giving a rare soft and empathetic smile towards her, one of genuine care.

“Nabiu. I'm serious. I want you to be happy too, you know?”

Karoto stood up, slowly bringing his hands around the hat and placing it back on her head, getting a huff out of her.

But, the blueberry looked up anyway, even if the shade hid the sun away.

That smirk was more reassuring, even if it got her to doubt things sometimes.

“Come on now! Can't have you be depressy messy, upsetti spaghetti over here!”

And for a moment as her feet tapped along to Karoto's, snickering together and ignoring any bystanders that might look weird-

Nabiu indulged in the little mischief she made.

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[LOADING WORKING SECTION] . . .

[Tip: D̷̛̺͇́͋̂̒͐͊̿̍͛̍u̴͉̘̻̓̔̿̿͒͌̒̊̽͝͠m̵̧̥̖͔͈̜͍̤̺̜̽̊̑́́̍̉̀͜͜͝ ̷͚̮̄̈n̴̛̠̗͐͆̊̽͗̃̂̎̌͊͝e̸̗̟̲̲̙͑͗͆̅̄̾̍̎̏́̚͠m̵̢̝̞̼̲̮̝͈̻͚͓͓͍̩̒͆̆͛͛͒̃͝ơ̸͚̲̾́͗̏̑͝ ̵̢̞̳͎̮̳̚į̸̟͍͈̫͖̦͙̦͉̟̹̗͖́͑͑̌̽͐̉̄͑̓͘ň̴̜̞͍̟̼͕̯̫̬͓̝̐̀̅͌̑̓͝ ̷̧̛̛̪̣͆̓̏͑̆̉̉̈́́͋̂͐̕c̴̢̛͇̰̟̱̪͇͆́̀̏͊͝͝ö̸̘̖̞̠̳̼̲̾̈́̔̀͂͆͊̐̕͝r̸̟̣͕̼̖͍͖̣̝̫̳͌̓̂̂͆̄̕͠͝p̸͇̖͖̩̼͇̰͙͇̮͈̼͌̏͠ͅö̴̰̣̥̰̙͚́͂͜r̴̢̢̼̭̣̣̼̻̦̥̻̈́ḛ̶̢̡͉͖̹̯̲̺̥̗̀͊͌͊̽͌̽̆̂́̀͑͝ ̶̡͇̙̫̲͉͍͈͉̘̲̑̎́̈̃̿͐̃̒̚e̴͇̱̞̲̜̦̦̫͋̎̀͜͝r̵͓̝̺̪̫̀̔̐̌̿̄̂̀̈́̾̓́̉͝a̵͇̲̳̙̘̹͐̀ţ̷̛͍̱͉͓͙̩̜̳̣̈͌̕̚͜͜͝͠,̶̟̱͔̳͖̰̼͓̺̖̮̣̝̜͉̂̄̔̍͑̿̋̌̂̆͝ ̶̡͍͉̯͖͓̥͓̥̬͈͓̲̪̋̄t̷̬̟̯̠̮͌̏̾̐͑̍̊͌͘a̴̯̪̫͇͌͛̃ṁ̴̧͇͓̝̺͇̻̱̺̹̯̰̫̅͋̔͑̆͒͌̀̃̅͌̚̕͜͝ȩ̶̧̱̝͚̮̞̞̲̙̀͌͊̌̌̍̀̕n̴̙̫͓̿͆̉̔͘͝͝ ̶̡͇̳̤͉͓͇̭̪̫̤̞͖͕͙͐̀͂̉͊͘ḿ̶͙̼̮̜̠̐ǫ̸̠̺͇̣͚̩̭͗̈́͒̀̈́́̾̾ͅv̵̺̹̬̣̗̝̞͙̆̓͋͆̿́͗̾͗̿̆͊̏͘ͅę̷̻̜̝͎̹̠̇̐b̷̺̲͊̔à̴̡̛̺̹̊͛̔͘t̵̝̭̜̮̜̓͂u̶̹̪̜̓̅̃͛̿̐́͌̑r̴͍̙͙̉̐̄̅̓̽̈̅͊́́͛͠.̶̢̛̠̙̦͓̺̼͓͚̟͈̣̗͋̆̑̿͐̌̇̀̎͛̅͑̂͘ ̸̢̜̹̲͔͔͂̂́̏̒̓͆͒͌̕N̷̳̱̬̐̅͗͌į̶̤̬̜̠͙̳̲͙̥̫̹̟̉̅̈́̓̓̈́͜͝ḩ̵͉͈̈́͝į̶̧̢̘̥͖͔̯̻̜̮̰̲̑̽́̔̿̔̒͘l̶̥̘͔̐̾̀̾̌̀̋͑̇̍̃͘ ̷̘͕̻̬̖̍͌̈́́͜ṅ̶̛̘̜̟̫̮͎̤̱̬̤͙͇̎̐̓́̌̈̌̇̒͝ī̷̡̼̖̙̠̙̜̊̏̓͋̊̊s̷̡̖̜̙͒̍̐i̸̢̡̼̗̟̮̳̊̉̀̎́̆͋̔͂́̉̚ ̴̤̞̥̤̺̮̖̤̼̭̤͉̄͊̐̇͜͝o̸̢̡͔̞̭̮̞̳̟͉̙͒̅͗͗̅͗̚̚͝͠͝͠͝ͅp̵͕̦͓͈̺͔̥̝̺̪̘̎̐́͋̐̽͘͜͠i̶̛̯̝̜̫̘̣̟̺̜̓̾̌̇̆͑͒̚̕n̷̡̫̦͇̽̊̐̓̇̒́̔̓͜͠i̷̺̣̥̩̬͍̖̊̈́̾̅̊̀͜͝͠ơ̸̧̢̹̯͎̤͓̂̋̂͌̎͗͋̃̌̐̚͜͝ň̶̪͉͇̠͚̯̺̑͑̋̍͑̌̀̓̍̏é̷͓͇̗̭͙͉͛͌͒s̶̢͖͖͔͇̲͓̑̽͘̚ ̶̥̝͕͈̣̭͙͔̩͛̏̊̈́̚͜ͅe̵̜͎̱̳͈̭͑͗̆̌̈́̀̇̈́̾̅t̵̢̖̗̩͓̬̦̭̼̹̋͛̓͑̈́̌̾̍͂̚͠ ̶̡͇͕̝̜̅ņ̸͕͙̬̲̮̩͕͚̖̠̠͙͖̇͗̅ͅo̷̠͎̳͎̯͙̮̙̮̝̮̖͓͊̋̅̔̾͂͒̌͒͂͗͆t̷͉̙͖̲̖̔͊̄̀̿͋͋̓̎͘̕̕͝͝͠î̷̙̃͑͑̊̊̊̾͊̕͠͠o̶̟̹̮͛̊̾͒̒̊͝͝͝͝n̸̨̛̳̈ȩ̴͕̥̗͇̖͗̊̀s̸̢̡̛̛̯̻̬̭̣̼̹̦̺̰̠̱̆͂̀̈́͊̄͌̀͘͝ ̵̨̡͉̩͎̩͔̗̩̤̱̙͙̺̿̓̆͐͐̾̑̀̂̃͐͊̇́͜i̴͙͉̙͂̌̀͒͆̃̅̓̆́̆̕͜ņ̷̞͎̟̮̱͗̈́̆̀͒͂́̉͒̾ ̷̡̨̧̨̰͕̻̭̖̻͍̹͘͝ĕ̷̯͔̀̃͛̄̕ǫ̶̛̬̹͙̻̻̣̪͕̦͓̙̈́̏́̃̈̂̀͒͑̂̊ ̴͔̲̬̟̓͌̈͂̂̒́͝͝f̵͖̬̦̼̮̞̘̘͓͙̪̰̹͚̿̂̒̉́̀̃͝ͅù̷̧̳̬̘͓̘͖̂̂͆͆̇͛̊̈́͂̾̈́͛͛̚ͅn̵͎̑͝d̷̡̠̩̪̆͐̈̔̍̓̏̏͘͝͠à̷̪͇̩̟͍̝̬̫̉̔͂̇͂̂͐̂͗̕ḃ̸̛̦̤̹̆̒̌̀̋͘͝a̸̳̫͉̗̠̟̳̣̦͍͒̊̊n̶̡̡̗͓̮̖̮̩̥̲̗̻̭͉͐̓͗t̵̻̖͛́̃̾̽̍u̵̜̺̣͈̤̟̓̎͗͌̍͠r̸̰̀̊,̷̢̨̺̪̳͔̩̜͇̪̤͈͙͗͋͗̃̈́͘ ̵͖͙̜͕͔̾̽̀͜ͅv̸̢̰͇͖̟̤̣̱͓̯͒o̷̢̱͉͇̘̟̹̭̣̤͓͔̱̲̅č̴͉̭̈́̒͊̃̈̉̒͗͝e̷̛̫͎̮̜͍͍̜͚̬̞͜m̵̡̢̗̙͖̯̻̼̝͉̣̃̈́͋̈́̑̅̄̈́̀͊͘ ̸̢̨̨̛̥͚̹̪̜̘̗͉͈̖͌͌̾͐͘͠ͅé̴͉̝͐̈̋̔́͊̑̔̐͂́̕i̸̢̡͔̪̳̙͔̩̲̙̯̠͍̫͗̈͂́̽͌̈́͋͋͑̌̈́̐͑ ̷̩̞͚̼̤̩̙̞̋͊̔̒̅̓̾͘ͅͅͅḑ̸̛̺͚̥͇̝̥̩̀̊̊͆̏͋̐͛͗̌ả̸̧̛̤̭͕̰̠̣̙͓̪͔̬̹͆̒͂͊͘n̷̨̹̩̹̲̦̳͚̺͉͍͕͈̍́͂̽̊t̷̛͉̰̮͚̜̠̝̗̹̯͉̙̟̭́͆͊̉͊͜e̶̬̔̀̾́̽̈̓̃̿̑́́͗ş̷̧̼̠̫̹͌͂̈́̎̓̈́̑́́͜͝ͅ.̸͍̬̻̋̄͋͂̌̍̈́̑]

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“Wow….its so dark.”

“Hence the closed sign…”

Nabiu silently hugged herself as they stumbled through the darker halls, ones left behind by the visitors to be born anew again.

They had barely jumped over the restrictive tape that wanted to stop them from trespassing, but once you ignore the rules?

It was nothing more than a piece of garbage for later.

Though you could use it for arts and crafts!!

Sadly, not the main objective here.

“Stay close. Shh…”

His quiet finger came towards the carrots lips, intertwining his hand with the little fruits as they walked towards a giant door, a dirty white porcelain.

Didn't seem to be cleaned or cared for properly, as the decorative golden lines that usually patterned across the doors was…

Already peeling off.

There was a faint sadness pooling in her from the sight of such a beautiful attraction decaying.

What had happened the last time she's been there?

Nonetheless, Nabiu followed.

Dirt was covering the floors, debris and random bugs scurrying out of the way of the two determined fools that went through these halls.

The only thing keeping them away?

Barrier tape-

Which Karoto literally just jumped over, grabbing Nabiu’s hand and helping her get over to his side of the room.

“Urgh, this is disgusting! Even I think this is revolting and I don't clean myself a lot!”

"Until recently.”

A silent stare came from both, especially a side eye from Karoto.

“....UNTIL RECENTLY, RIGHT.”

“Mhm, totally.”

Karoto ignored the question and decided to keep heading forward anyway, ignoring his companions' confused pleas.

Looking up, Nabiu quietly stared at the door that had been closed for so long, quietly checking behind her for any unfortunate passerby.

While the bard was swiftly cracking the lock open, more thoughts came.

In reality, there was no reason announced for this close up.

Only that the building was old and that they needed to renovate, which may include ancient findings.

How strange.

But hey, a lot of the artifacts in these parts were ancient, so they might have built right on top of it, just to find ten times more!

Nothing she would mind! IMAGINE ALL THE ENTRIES SHE COULD WRITE!!!

And maybe- maybe she can even donate some findings here! Be popular! Known! AMAZING!!!

AND MAYBE-

Click.

“I'm done. Let's get going, you fruit salad disaster.”

Taking one deep breath, Nabiu nodded and let her best friend open the doors, creating a small echo, even with just making the crack big enough for both of them to enter-

And once she opened her eyes?

God.

It was almost all the same as before.

The moon shone down on them, the drawings spinning around the room with their white and blue glory, sparkling as if someone took a glitter glue pen and smeared it all over the room.

They must have changed the drawing on-top through a window though, as the moon painting had been brought to a nearby wall.

It portrayed the Moon with closed eyes, the stars being its cape and surrounding itself with lightning.

Yet the clouds were kept, along with the stars.

How strange! But that just meant more to look at, despite the missing piece.

Things change, even she accepted that sometimes.

And below-

Below….

Okay, below was different.

The giant crystal mosaic painting that usually was beneath them-

It was dug out slightly, panels being removed one by one, revealing what seems to be a small hole that one could enter though!

“Huh. Interesting-”

“YESSSS, I KNOWRIGHT???”

She didn't mind making Karoto physically jump and slumber with a yelp, nearly tripping over the plates herself due to her excited jumps.

Which the poor carrot did, face planting with a gasp onto the dirty floor, groaning and complaining in heavy murmurs.

It was all she wanted and more!!! 

“Are you seeing this, Karoto?”

“I see the floor- HRUGG-”

Grunts came from behind her as the other struggled to get up, grabbing her book and scribbling all the details she could think of into the book.

She wanted to remember it all!

Though, Karoto seemed to have different ideas, stepping around the loose porcelain and seeming to inspect the hole they made.

“...Was this here before, Nabs-?”

Turning over, she noted the hole once more.

It looked relatively deep. Perhaps old catacombs were found in them? Maybe that could lead to another section!

A CATACOMB SECTION.

She nearly forgot that responding to questions was a normal thing.

“Not at all! There was a mosaic pattern usually below us-”

“A what.”

“Oh! A mosaic! A mosaic is a pattern or image made of small regular or irregular pieces of colored stone, glass or ceramic, held in place by plaster, also called mortar, and covering a surface! Mosaics are often used as floor and wall decoration, and were particularly popular in the Ancient Roman world-”

There was a faint regret in the carrots eyes as he sighed, accepting the doom he brought upon himself.

Deciding to make himself at least somewhat comfortable, he stepped back and leaned against one of the many panels, listening to the endless rambles.

Maybe leaning his shoulders towards nowhere in particular-

“Mosaic today includes not just murals and pavements, but also artwork, hobby crafts, and industrial and construction forms…Mosaics have a long history, starting in Mesopotamia in the 3rd millennium BC. Pebble mosaics were made in Tiryns in Mycenean Greece; mosaics with patterns and pictures became widespread in classical times, both in Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome! Early Christian basilicas from the 4th century onwards-”

Click.

Before any of them could truly wonder what Greece was, there was a faint noise that made ESPECIALLY Karoto flinch, staring at the panel he leaned against.

It seemed to have sunk in out of nowhere, pressing in and making the place rumble a bit.

It was rather fragile after all, no-?

“Oh, did you break it-”

Nabiu was cut off as she finally caught what look Karoto gave the panel.

A knowing look of horror.

Knowing what just seemed to have gone wrong, from all the experience he had from traps-

Running towards her, reaching out and-

“Nabiu. NABIU, WE NEED TOO-”

SCHWIP.

Something

Opened up beneath them

And as wind took them down, Nabiu’s gaze followed up to her brothers.

Flailing, grasping for air as the porcelain faded into a material she saw in no book.

As he grasped her arms and held her against his chest, holding her close as if his life depended on it.

Maybe it did.

Maybe it-

CRISH.

“...”

“...Urggh…”

Nabiu awoke to a painful sensation rotting in her head.

Bleeding into nowhere, crashing through her body like a tidal wave, letting the pain glow and make its way through her entire body.

A shiver ragged through, one that made sure that slamming into concrete was a feeling she may never forget.

And the cold, dusty floor didn't help either, not really freezing the feeling like it should.

….Okay, maybe not dusty, rather-

Disturbingly clean?

There was not a single speck of dust on the floor, which was quite weird to see as usually, every single place she has ever been too has at least one speck of dust-

Wizzro's place, her parents house, even her room which she loved had some spots of dirt and-

Maybe not the right time to discuss that actually.

A groan left her lips as she finally sat up, limbs aching as she looked down upon the floor, squeaky clean and shining in a blue color.

Almost like a mirror, reflecting her face, even if it's not quite right.

At least for a second, as her hat switched from blue to an average yellow, seemingly leaving only minor mistakes to fix that she noted.

Her eyes a bit too big, her cloak a bit too light, maybe her mouth just too far down-

Well, maybe even a mirror can make a mistake, one she knew from doortals making mistakes despite their terrifying nature.

Sometimes, they accidentally lock themselves and whine a whole lot, especially when clanking over to ask for help.

Just before sucking you in while cackling.

Silently brushing herself off, she noted any dust flakes that fell to the clean ground, nearly ruining the entire thing just by existing.

Staying, remaining, off to the perfection of this land.

And once more, she looked around the room.

Blue and cyan tints were all around them, mirrors curling around as walls where every single direction showed a hundred reflections staring right back at her.

One could call it horrifying, but there was a strange fascination that was brought out of her.

Apparently, this room had a roof or rather a ceiling, shaped like an inside out triangle with little triangles all going once around.

Perfect crystals, shining like the perfect maid just came through and washed for hours, just for visitors to come by!

Beside Karoto, but-

Wait.

KAROTOISSTILLLAYINGTHERE-

“KARO-??!?”

Nabiu's legs moved almost on her own, hitting against the ground as she watched her brother shiver and shake, laying on the cold ground.

Of course, he fell with her! What if he got hurt through it-?

She quickly got on her knees, inspecting the carrot but finding no injuries.

Strange for such a long fall, but better than there being any.

One harsh breath was taken as she couldn't help but check the pulse anyway, pressing herself against the chest and listening in.

Perhaps gripping the coat's fabric a bit too hard.

….

Bu-bump.

Bu-bump.

Ah, thank Nantes-

A relieved sigh escaped her as she gently rolled him over on his back, rubbing the chest in a slow manner.

There was a certain discomfort in the carrots face, contorting his face and getting soft grumbles out as he clenched his fists.

Nabiu's hand easily slipped near the gloved hand, rubbing over the knuckles.

Now, waking up Karoto shouldn't be that hard. He was a light sleeper after all and she woke him up all the time for tasks back home!

Not because he liked it, but work was important!

Hmmm.

Tap. Tap.

“Karoto.”

Gently, she bumped her finger against his face.

“Karoto. Wake up.”

Carefully, she pressed his belly a bit harder and received a muttered groan.

“Karoto. Wakey wakey.”

With as much finesse as she can muster, she hardly SLAPPED KAROTO ACROSS THE FACE.

The startled yelp of pain was quite satisfying, she must admit.

“Ah! You're awake!”

“WHATDOYOUMEANIMAWAKE-???”

Harsh coughs left the bard as he shot up, gripping his stomach as she, apologetic for her actions, patted his back till the sounds vanished.

The air probably got knocked out of him from the fall!

And from the shock of the slap.

Maybe her fault, you can't prove that.

But as soon as he was okay, he shot his panicked gaze around the crystal-clear room, eyes as wide as saucers with rapid blinking involved.

“Where…are we?”

Karoto turned to look at Nabiu like she held all the answers, but nothing more than a shrug was a response he needed to take.

She truly wished she could give more to her fellow friend, but there was nothing this little blueberry could do for the brave carrot.

Neither were happy about this.

Quiet breaths were taken as they sat there, taking in the moment as the bard propped himself up to his knees.

His expression spoke for experience to this kind of thing, partnered with the furrowed brows.

“...Let me guess, no people at all?”

She shook her head while adjusting the scrunched up hat, hoping out the banana shaped triangle.

“Of course…”

Karoto muttered silently as he stood up, helping Nabiu along, dusting himself off and looking towards a specific direction she hadn't checked.

Peeking from behind him, she spotted that singular item she surprisingly missed, despite how much it stood out.

A black door, unlike everything else in this room.

It felt like you were staring into pure nothingness, only faint stars fluttering along the edges of the door and being absent of those harsh blues.

The little blueberry noted faint tints of purple too, blurring over as if only seen by the moon.

Just like those special sacred ink pens!

For a moment, the two's eyes met, discussing without words and wondering to themselves if they translated the stares correctly.

Karoto squinted quietly and looked back and forth between the door and the blueberry.

Nabiu nudged towards it, a smile on her face.

He shook his head forcefully, squinting more.

She nodded with a determined stare despite it all.

And once again, both stared at each other as the weight of what could be behind that door dawned on them, leaving a lump in their throats.

Perhaps endless terrors or even death beyond reason!

Or very cool magic spells and awesome friends.

Nabiu would like that!

Nonetheless, Karoto stepped forward towards the crystallic knob, taking a moment to readjust his grip and hesitating to even open it.

Fear was valid at this moment and he never let the grip get too tight.

She wouldn't want him to do this on his own!

So, she stepped forward and jumped up to grab the knob as well, looking over to Karoto with a soft smile and a reassuring gaze.

One that said that it'll be okay and that they WILL get home, no matter what.

…A silent nod came, partnered with a smirk growing on his face, just as familiar as it always was.

And finally, with the slightest turn of their wrists-

It-

“ A -”

“OH CRAP-”

Nabiu saw no ground a split second, only the everlasting, never ending void.

Purple. The darkest blue. Sparks of cyan and white.

Luckily one of them had reflexes of a Condylostylus, grabbing her cloak and pulling her back onto safe grounds!

Hitting the ground with her back, she let out a choked cough, letting Karoto bring an arm around her shoulder to rub it.

“Everything alright, Paintball-?”

Karoto kneeled down, probably to inspect her, but Nabiu nearly forgot that she smacked onto the ground like an excited fly.

Because before her was something so different from her world.

Oh, the sight?

The sight was heavingly for someone like her.

“KAROTO, LOOOKKK!”

To be honest, the look on his face was to be expected from all the unexplainable things that were happening around them.

He was allowed to panic a little bit!

After all, the surrounding space was.

Kind of.

Nothing.

Well, not COMPLETE nothingness! It had color!!!

What stood before them was a dark blue covered sky, just edging onto baby blue and Navi blue and Prussian blue!

Beautiful blues by the way. There were also some purple tints, maybe cans and greens that too, resembled northern lights and stars!

Some crystal pieces floated around aimlessly, seeming to have no real path or reason to be there.

Though you could surely call their situation ‘being stuck in an old abstract painting’. Almost like that one Starry night painting she saw!

Floating in-front of them, several shattered glass panels formed a path for them to jump on, inviting them to yet another adventure!

And above?

…

There was no museum.

No entrance.

No escape from their fate.

…Buuutttt, Nabiu liked to stay optimistic, the only way going forward with something on the distance.

With nothing else to do, she nodded to herself and kneeled just a bit-

“Well, let's go then!”

“Wait, NABS-”

Before any words could be shared, Nabiu jumped forward, landing her feet on the cold glass.

They were pretty good for sticking to the ground, especially for not falling off!

Hopping from platform to platform, she quickly turned her head around with the brightest smile on her face.

It wasn't that bad once you finally started jumping!

“KAROTO, FOLLOW ME!!!”

She was oh-so familiar with the fear in Karoto's eyes, nervous clenching of fists and the rapid blinking towards Unknown destinations.

But he always followed, nothing that stopped him now as he huffed with exhaustion.

One more mumble and he took a jump-

NEARLY FALLING OFF WITH A YELP BUT STICKING THE LANDING.

Nabiu nearly screeched, she admitted to that.

Luckily, thumbs up were a nice reassurance, despite his baffled and clearly forced smile.

For they had to continue, NO MATTER WHAT!!!

What if everyone was already worried back home???

SHE COULDN'T RISK IT!

So, jumping along these platforms it was, hopping around while a soft plink continued with each step a step towards their fate.

It'll…be okay.

She knows that- She's very well aware of That-!

So, she didn't need to misstep. There could be new creatures here after all! New things to write in her book! 

OOHHH, NEXT REST SHE SHOULD DOODLE AROUND!!!

ANND MAYBE E-

“OY, ZOOMY!”

A -

Nabiu kept jumping, checking right to her left as she noted the carrot doing full-on criss-cross jumps and flips over the glass platforms.

As if he hadn't been afraid of even stepping on Them a whole minute ago!

She admired these things and a bright smile mixed with sparkling eyes crossed her features.

And Karoto matched such power, snickering and pointing towards the landing spot of interest that they were approaching.

“Race the notorious thief to the island, would ya?”

You see, this little blueberry usually wasn't as competitive. No reason too, just not her thing!

….But she really did like the idea of even more fun with her big brother figure!

A bit of mischievousness won't hurt.

"YOU'RE ON!!!”

Quickly, both started to speed up with different levels of security, making sure that both didn't trip or fall by accident as Karoto kept doing tricks.

Almost like a ballerina or ice dancer.

It was graceful in a way that she could imagine being used in an escape.

For a moment, she realised that may be where the carrot even got it from, jumping without fear from each platform to the next, stars and colors passing them by.

Nabiu couldn't just watch however, she had a race to win!

Pulling out her rod - which luckily wasn't lost in the fall - she pointed towards the Next platform, tilting it just a bit towards her, landing on the edge-

And CATAPULTING her forwards with a flick of her wrists, a gleeful snicker escaping her as she just faintly caught a gasp from the carrot.

But it wasn't malicious, a laugh turning into snickers escaping the fellow bard as well as he pulled out his guitar and threw himself forward.

Just like a pedal!

“YOU CAN’T ESCAPE ME, POTION SUCKER!”

“WELL, WE WILL SEE, MUSIC SLI-”

THUMP.

“O W W W W W W W W. WA. AA A-”

“Oh fu-”

Crashing into a hill wasn't a nice experience.

Nabiu coughed as she pulled her face out of the grass, spitting out a fistful of grass and dirt that she had almost swallowed by accident.

She liked her greens boiled, thank you.

A quiet shiver ran through her body as those taps from running cake up behind her, brushing off the dirt and checking for injuries.

That didn't stop her from choking out words from her leaf-infected throat though.

“I. W o n .”

It was all worth it to hear her friend laugh, ruffling her hair in a soft yet mischievous way.

“Pfff- Yeah, yeah, sure you did.”

Looking up, her smile faded for a moment at the sight that was now shared.

Not only due to them both being here, but for the strange absurdity that it was.

A…patch of grass.

Nothing more than a patch of grass that innocently sat there between all this endlessness, big enough for them to run around for fun.

Sure, it seemed to grow weird crystals around its wake.

But that truly wasn't the weirdest thing this place held.

“Are we sure we aren't in a coma or something? Or like…hallucinating-?”

Karoto wasn't wrong to ask that as he absently brushed his hand over her shoulder, a smile crossing her lips as she rummaged through her bag.

“Even if we are, MIGHT AS WELL DOODLE IT DOWN!!”

Nabiu was way less concerned, which may be concerning but she wasn't gonna be turning down this opportunity to draw these strange surroundings!

She quickly pulled down her sketchbook and coloring pencil, laying it down on the fresh grass and starting to look around for inspiration and context.

Lines were easily drawn and the soft taps made her aware that her companion was checking out the area for himself.

The sound of scratching and sparkling was heard across the realm, interestingly the gentlest breeze past them too, which may be due to the grass.

After all, no trees seemed to be harbouring this area and the BlueBerry wasn't sure if she should explore the entire ecosystem.

Without Wizzro, that is.

A few more tints of color and the picture was finally settling, to the point she started to write info down on the other page.

STARRY DIMENSION

A strange unexplored dimension! It seems that random objects float around here at all times, following not the order of time or logic with gentle breezes passing through.

GRASSY SPOT

A floating patch of dirt in the middle of nowhere, growing crystals and seeming to have no real purpose other than existing for its own sake.

There we go!

Once again, her happiness was ever present as she closed her book, bringing it back into her small back and looking around to find-

Ah!

Karoto!

Her friend seemed to be currently inspecting the crystals touching them and even taking off his gloves to inspect them properly.

Taking a few steps closer however, there was something off about this whole situation.

“Karo? Something wrong?”

Because, despite the wonderful appearance and the glittering of the crystals that seemed weirdly bland, he looked…

Unsettled.

Terrified? Perhaps even horrified?

A faint mutter of his breath as he stepped away, rubbing his fingers off on his coat as if he couldn't bear to have it on his skin.

“What- W-What even-”

Nabiu tilted her head to the side, approaching the crystals herself, feeling silent empathy for the carrot.

But she noted a weird detail that she hadn't noticed before.

If you look close enough, look behind all those moving stars and crystals, just focusing on these glowing ones-

They seemed to be beating. Pulsating.

Almost like they were alive.

Out of her own cursed curiosity, she went forward, reaching her hand out the moment Karoto seemed to be looking forward once more and-

Touching.

…it.

It felt like skin.

No, not skin- skin is soft. Delicate. Squishy.

This was flesh.

Pulsating, raw flesh that made her blood run cold, feeling pulsating veins tight against her finger.

For a moment, she thought she could feel liquid running down between the edges.

It looked like a crystal. But the way she could press her hand against it, squishing it like a heart that was just ripped out from someone's chest-

God.

She never felt such things before.

So how did she even know how a heart would feel like-

Nabiu stepped away to clean her hand as well, body shivering beyond reason as she could notice now.

A shaky breath escaped her.

Staring at the culprit right there.

She had noticed. That if you look at a certain angle.

You could truly see parts of organs, just splitting off into oblivion. Forced together by fate.

And she needed to draw this. Because who-

“-yHeyHey, Nabs-?”

A gentle hand touched her shoulder, causing a flinch to emit from her entire body, shivering and shaking from the pure sensation.

She couldn't look up at Karoto.

Despite it all, she just couldn't.

And she didn't know why-

“Hey. Nabiu.”

….Soft.

Karoto's voice turned surprisingly soft, gently bringing her gaze up and kneeling down towards her level.

An expression of kindness and reassurance was shown to her, where nothing seemed to be wrong.

The smile of her friend seemed genuine, even if he spoke no words towards her, just his presence was enough.

Enough to bring her back to reality and to stop worrying, because actually-

This was extremely interesting for research.

“Do you think there were researchers researching this before?”

“Huh-?”

Of course, Karoto wasn't the same as her, recovering so quickly from shock unlike any other child he had ever met.

But she didn't mind, as she with a good distance - not touchingnottouchingnottouching - brought out her book once again, this time with just a black pencil.

After all, fear was a popular factor among discoveries, that shouldn't stop her from learning it all!

She never blamed Karoto for his nervousness, he wasn't much of an explorer unless he needed too.

Shown by the hundred times they went through scary forests or mountains and he knew the way, not by choice, but by need of a free path.

Him sitting down beside her and silently looking at the drawings was heavily appreciated nonetheless.

Sometimes, the blueberry would gently nudge the carrot, showing off her doodles and asking for reassurance that it all looked good.

Always and never different, he would reply with a cordless thumbs up, rubbing her back.

Once done with the doodle section, she finally went on to finalise all this by a simple description.

MEAT CRYSTALS

A form of life? A beating crystal formation that seems to pulsate and is soft to the touch! You can see organs, intestines, blood and flesh between the lines.

It is unknown to me if these are from people.

“Annnddd done!”

With a quick hop, she stood up once more, looking at her fellow friend who was tugging silently at his own scarf.

“Everything…alright, Nabs?”

Back to nicknames once more, she appreciated the silent cues of habits that she got from him.

A quick nod came from her, tugging at his gloved hand and intertwining it with her own, ready to leave to explore more!

“Indeed, Thank you for asking! We need to explore MORE of this strange place!!”

Nabiu was very aware that people wondered about her strange fascination with the unknown, especially without fear!

But there was nothing to fear when you have someone to trustful as Karoto nearby, who was surprisingly not resisting her grip much.

And she could even catch the smirk returning, nodding along and running with her off of this cursed little grassland and back onto crystalized platforms.

Honestly, she found it interesting how in reality, the crystals were probably the least abnormal thing here.

The fact that anything was growing here, if it was soft grass or even a sort of beating lifeform was a miracle.

Should she really question a place that has wind with no trees? Perhaps not!

“Keep up, Karo!”

“I'm trying, I'm trying-!”

Gleeful laughter rang through the world once more as they got over the small incident, jumping forward hand in hand this time.

Maybe sometimes pulling each other up due to a slip up.

Happens!

Not like the endless void was beneath them, WHO CARES.

Soon enough, another obstacle came their way, a strange one at that.

“Oh, A LADDER!”

“I. Don't. Think we uhm. Should call that a ladder, smallscraper.”

Well, she would.

Even if said ladder was made of metal pipes, glass, silk, several swords on the sides, more silk, glue, crystals and hopes and dreams.

She strutted forward, putting her hands on her hips with an excited smile.

“Someone must truly believe in this ladder for it to stay right here!”

“Or they abandoned it, because absolutely everyone was afraid of using it.”

Nabiu let one side-glare slip from her, but all she received was a careless shrug in its place as Karoto patted her back.

“You go first. You can see what's ahead and if I fall, then-”

“YOU WON'T FALL.”

“Just a possibility! No need for dramatics.”

As Nabiu started to climb this contraption of a ladder, gripping onto the cold metal pipes offered in no dirt, the banter continued.

She gently kicked his forehead, receiving a snickering yelp.

“You're being dramatic!”

“Nuh-uh. Just realistic.”

The small blueberry poked at the knives sometimes, testing their sharpness despite them being surprisingly blunt for their unused state.

“Hey-! Be careful. Don't want you getting cuts on a ladder.”

“No worries! Careful is my middle name.”

She could practically feel the doubt radiating off the other, a scoff being heard as she gripped onto the pipes and ran a finger over the silk every now and then.

“Nabs, neither of us would ever put that as our middle name.”

“It was a joke-”

“IM A W A R E.”

It was her turn to snort, finding all this amusement in the endless space, especially with a friend.

Time to time, she could even play a knock-off throwball game, where Karoto threw a shard up and she knocked it back down.

Only a few winces were heard from the carrot down below.

But as they kept going up and up the ladder, focusing on the cold sensation of the pipes, wondering how everything held together so well-

Nabiu started to notice a globe-like structure.

It was pure black, floating in the middle of nowhere just like the island, where she could only see the flat end of its back.

But there were also windows!! Colorful holes! DRAWING HOLES!!!

The only thing bringing her excitement off was Karoto, who she heard the voice of from down below her.

“Anything interesting up there-? If It is another ladder, I swear-”

“NO, THERE'S A HOUSE!!!”

Nabiu pointed up excitedly, jumping up and down on the ladder that-

O h w a 

“NABIU-”

THUMP-

Nabiu held her breath, only noting the sensation of being held as she slowly opened her eyes, almost forgetting she closed them in the first place.

Despite her face being half stuck in the red scarf, she still made the effort to look to who and saved her-

And it was Karoto!!!

Who. Didn't look all that pleased If she was honest.

“Do. Not. Let. Go. Got it?”

Karoto. Was glaring.

Glaring not due to hatred, but for focus as he held her close to his chest, gripping the hat a bit too tightly.

If she minded, she may have still not said it till It was truly too much.

It was a bit silent for the rest of the short climb, a few grunts escaping the older carrot as he was careful not to get stabbed.

Wouldn't be that great!

A bit of guilt brewed in her though.

“...I'm sorry-”

“Don’t- it's fine. Just be more careful next time, ‘kay?”

Reluctantly, she nodded.

It didn't stop the guilt in her stomach, but it reassured her that she could always make small mistakes around Karoto.

Something not always allowed around the older folk, she has realised over the years.

But her thoughts finally came to a halt once her friend patted her back, readjusting himself so she could move a bit more.

“Alright, we are there. Careful climbing up, cause I don't know if my hurting stomach wants you dropping on it.”

Nabiu didn't speak, yet gave a nod as she carefully peeled herself off Karoto, making sure none of his clothing was too scrambled up.

Sometimes, she wonders how many times he actually puts these into the washing machine.

Well, questions later, adventure now!

With just a small effort, she jumped up into the doorless entrance, stumbling forward but catching herself on her stubby little legs.

Before she could check on Karoto, Nabiu looked around.

And found herself amazed.

The area they were now inside was a giant, pitch black room.

Of course, it was globe-shaped, the windows being as colorful as they were when she first saw them….

But they also seemed to move like little stick figures, at least from the distance she was looking at!

They could be small cartoons in a black box, just like a movie theater!

SHE CAN WRITE ABOUT THIS TOO-

“N A B S -”

Oh yeah, KAROTO!

“Coming!”

Immediately, she turned around and sped towards the struggling carrot, who was currently bent over like a broken pencil.

Not the worst position she saw him in, but probably also not the most comfortable.

With a quick tug of his gloved hands, he started to pull him up with heavy effort, shaking and struggling to get the bard up.

Inside, Nabiu felt happy that Karoto was getting bigger. Less malnourished.

“Come…On-”

And with a swift tug-!

THUMP.

“U R G G HHH-”

-Karoto fell straight onto the floor, faceplanting into the black, unknown material that made up this contraption, getting a silent pat on the back.

Emotional support was something she specialised in after all, even to sprawled out carrots.

“You did great! The landing could have been better-”

“Uh-huh….”

The blueberry helped the carrot up, bringing him to a standing position that only led to slight swaying on the vegetables side.

Which meant that now, he could admire the fascinating nature of the globe as well!

“...Huh.”

Quiet blinking came from the bard as he looked around, different colors filling the dark room as he stuffed his hands into his pockets again.

Nabiu followed, deciding that she might as well look around.

“Who do you think built this?”

“No idea, but they must suck at furniture and decorating. It's so empty here! Not even a fridge with food…”

Nabiu chuckled, not minding the lack of objects as it only added to the fascinating nature of this little spot.

It felt like a weird kind of home.

A strange kind…of familiarity, despite never having been here before.

“I'm gonna look through one of the windows!!”

“Tell me if it has any action in it! Or money. Or gambling.”

A simple shrug was left as she finally peeked through, needing to squint her other eye roll see the what was on the other side,

…

Someone was looking to their right.

Staring at a carrot, yes. But not one she recognized, not one she could decipher the face of.

The carrot wore many scarfs, their green strands brought back in wave-like motion, smiling at who was looking.

They were at a campfire. Burning bright, freshly lit.

Almost no sound was there, voices heavily distorted.

The only other thing she saw was trees and a faint outline of a broccoli, having an arm around someone else.

Nothing more.

Well, that was strange.

Plucking her eye out of the telescope view, she looked over to Karoto, who decided to lean against a nearby wall for relaxation.

His gaze softened as he looked up to the small M.A.G.E, giving a smile in return.

“Anything interesting?”

A quick nod came as she ran over to the window right on the other side, giving a thumbs up.

“Yeah! These windows seem to show someone's life!”

With no hesitation, she went right into the next vision with the same excitement.

Someone was side-staring their left side.

For some reason, this one made her feel a strange sense of suspicion.

Beside her was a bat in lime-green, more recognizable as she remembered that it looked a lot like…

A lemon bat? Yeah! Just like one of her friends, Lemlo!

But it all felt wrong.

That smile felt wrong. The idea of her being there felt wrong.

As if the person didn't trust her.

But that was all, just walking and walking on.

Nabiu silently blinked as she put a hand on the black wall, wondering what she was truly seeing there.

She did not know the person, but it seemed to stay in her gut, forming a lump in there.

A projector of feelings, it seemed.

“...This person seemed distrustful.”

“Oh?”

Karoto seemed to silently approach once more, even as she already approached the doorless entrance which-

….Had. a door?

She blinked. But shrugged it off with that same smile as she slammed the door shut, jumped up and looked through its window.

….There was-

“You can't keep arguing with h I I m. M due to everything, ████!”

There was a voice now.

The figure she saw through was turned around, their cloak- cloak? - being rubbed by those blackened fingers.

“And you can't keep excusing him for being stupid and naive.”

“I AM NOT- Dear god, you know thats not what i meant!

Not dear N-

The figure turned around, just to show that broccoli again, wearing a purple poncho and a black shirt with a skirt.

There were details, but they were glitchy. As if the person's memory was struggling to make it out.

“You can't keep acting like he's the source of all wrong in this world.”

“I am not. 4e 41 4e 54 45 53 is simply not taking anything seriously enough. He never uses his abilities, just constantly choosing mercy and hesitance!”

“Not everyone needs to be as desperate for justice as y o u, ████.”

…A Silence. Perhaps a quiet pissed grumble.

The broccoli continued talking, albeit calmer.

“Not everyone is like you. If you can respect me and 01010110 01101001 01101110 01100011 01101000 01111001-

That's a lot of numbers said really fastly.

“-Then you can also respect h I m . I don't want to hear another peep from your stupid justice mindset till we get to the next village, you got me?”

….

“...Fine.”

Nabiu stepped away with baited breath, looking back at Karoto who was staring at her curiously.

“And?”

For a moment, she didn't say a single thing about the weird mirror encounter, thinking in silence.

Why was this person so hateful? Were their teammates bad?

But the person arguing seemed to have a point too…

“I think these are someone's memories. I saw a carrot and a broccoli! And once even a lime bat!”

Widening his eyes, Karoto looked over to one of the reachable windows they haven't seen yet, scratching the back of his head.

Nabiu and Karoto shared glances, before finally heading over to the one in the front, where the carrot let the blueberry take the lead.

Taking a simple peek-

CRISH.

….

Blood.

Blood was splayed over crystalized ground. 

For a moment, she thought she saw pieces of skin and flesh on the ground, the blue sky that it was supposed to be-

-H o w d o e s s h e k n o w t h a t-

-Being utterly absent, screeching being heard through the entire place.

“MOVE! I DONT THINK HE-”

“ -A NASTY PIECE OF FLESH!”

“NOT T HE. TI M E-”

It was all blurring out.

Blood was leaking over a functional eye. As functional as a cut eyeball seemed to have.

For a moment.

She thought she heard a whisper of broken lungs.

Nabiu stepped away with a gasp.

“Hey-! Hey, what's up?”

Karoto was panicking. Has she done anything?

Stumbling back, she gripped onto the cost with shaky hands, just needing something.

Anything to forget such a vision-

For once, there was no other whisper despite the questions that must be dwelling in his head, arms wrapping around her without words.

It stayed like that for a small bit of time, just indulging in the warmth of each other's comfort.

What could that have been?

Why was it so…disturbing?

…She needs to DRAW AND WRITE THIS DOWN-

Without hesitation, she grabbed her book and pulled out her pencils, getting a flinch out of the older carrot as he leaned down beside her.

“Hey-! Are you alright to-”

“YES, THIS IS VERYIMPORTANTSHUSH.”

So, she wrote. And wrote. And wrote some more with drawings included.

Ignoring the imagery that plastered her mindset, ignoring that whoever memories they saw might be dead-

Nabiu finished up the next page.

MEMORY GLOBE

A big black globe, who's windows show different sceneries, some unreachable if you don't have stairs or a ladder. Or a flying buddy!

Theories show that these might be memories of a person, one of distrust and perhaps higher order?

A quick nod to herself and she put her bock away, pocketing it back where it belonged like all her other utensils.

Karoto was still beside her too, which she highly appreciated.

“If your finished with your trauma handling-”

“NOTE TAKING.”

“-Note taking, then I wanna mention that another door opened, Paintball.”

Huh?

Looking over, her big brother-figure was indeed not lying as the window at the front had creaked open, revealing another path!

A path forward, hopefully back to Wizzro and the others!

They were probably worried. Or checking out more furniture.

Wizzro liked furniture.

“Well, then we shall go on ahead to new areas!”

Karoto huffed, but she could evidently hear the chuckle that escaped him as she went down-

GRIP.

“Nabiu. Stairs.”

“A”

Never judge a carrots reflexes. Especially if he's blank about it and grabbing your little cloak.

Nabiu simply kept smiling and now properly stood on the stairs that weren't there before, made of porcelain and crystals.

She jumped around, singing a small song to herself.

“The wheels of the bus go round and round, allllll dayyy loonnnggg-”

“Cause someone cut the breaks.”

This blueberry was heavily allowed to glare at the stupid carrot that was ruining ALL HER HAPPY SONGS.

Yet all she got as a sad apology was a snort and a shrug, which then turned into a calm pointing motion.

“Hey, more islands!”

And as she shot her gaze over with a :O, Nabiu understood what he meant!

Cause there was a giant island this time, looking like a mirror maze! She could even see where they had to go from here!

“Oh, I should make a map! Imagine all the tight turns and unseeable monsters there could be!”

Happily jotting down her info in her book as she opened it yet again, she jumped onto the next platform, thinking around.

They could completely remember the layout, which could take even more time…

Or use the left method, where you just keep following a singular wall and going around it! It's tedious and scary, but you'll find the exit at some point.

Another thing could be climbing up the mirrors, but if they're as freshly cleaned as everything else in this land, they might slip up.

That wouldn't be so good.

Tip-toeing over to the entrance, Nabiu decided that she might as well ask her companion.

“Karoto! What do you think-?”

….

No answer.

“Karoto?”

She turned around, noticing the carrot just standing a platform away from the entrance of the maze, seeming to not.

Why wouldn't he move? Its-

Just…

A very tight maze.

Oh.

The moment she realized, a lump of guilt formed her stomach, looking at the poor claustrophobic carrot who was currently pouting.

Right, Right.

She stepped forward, looking down at the reflective crystals they walked on and quickly grabbed Karoto's fist.

He looked down with fearful sadness, staring down at the one that usually comforted him.

And that wouldn't stop now, carefully undoing his fingers to entangle her hand in his.

“It'll be alright. Just follow me!”

A hesitant sigh, but nonetheless a nod.

Karoto followed Nabiu, who was clearly excited to enter the maze, already walking past the first few mirrors.

Of course, they reflected themselves, which she couldn't help but smile at as she nudged Karoto towards the mirrors.

Endlessly repeating, she just identified them as being friends in hundreds of different universes.

A wonderful thought.

“Hello, Mirror us!”

“Hello, ugly meeEEEP-”

“DONT TRASH TALK YOURSELF.”

A laughter escaped the nervous carrot as he got smacked on the shoulder, reducing to chuckling as Nabiu playfully rolled her eyes.

She decided to go for the following-one-wall method, turning in one direction and following the mirrors to their hopeful destination.

“Try saying something nice to the mirror! There's lots of possibilities after all.”

A neglected murmur escaped the bard, but he quietly looked towards the ever-repeating mirrors once more.

Blinking, waiting, perhaps even thinking of what to say.

“...Yourrrrrrrrr….very orange today.”

The fact she could hear that unconvincing tone from his lips was a sign he truly didn't know what to say.

It would be funny if she didn't know that he was struggling with Self-love sometimes.

“Let me try!”

“I-”

With a quick hop, she stood in front of the next mirror, pointing to it with the excitement of a little child.

“YOU ARE AMAZING!!!! YOU CAN DO EVERYTHING!!! FAIL TOO, IT'S HEALTHY!!!!!!!!!”

All this was worth it for the happy snort that escaped the carrot, laughter ringing through the maze and stomps too!

They-

….Wait.

Stomps-?

Suddenly, her hand was gripped tighter as the carrot silenced, looking into a random direction that they couldn't recognize.

“You…heard that too-?”

“Maybe it was just my jumping!”

“No, no, you're too tiny.”

That deliberate smirk was very stackable, but it was ignored for the sparks that seemed to be appearing by the mirrors.

Both looked once again at each other, Nabiu leading forward while brushing over the mirrors, trying to look at certain reflections.

Perhaps they could notice some mistakes.

Maybe even certain creatures? What if there are special creatures in the maze? MAYBE EVEN-

CRISSHHHHH.

Oh.

That was glass shattering.

“SCRRRRREEEEEEEEEE–”

“CRAP- NABIU, RUN!”

YEAH, SHE WILL AGREE ON THAT ONE-

Nabiu grabbed onto the rod she had kept in her bag for safety, pulling it out and making a run for it with Karoto, running across the endless mirrors.

Heavy stomps flooded behind them, cracking the sensitive crystals beneath them and cracking each mirror with succession.

“FORGET IT, I HATE THIS PLACE-”

“KEEP RUNNING, KARO-!!!”

A yelp came from the carrot, taking sharp turns as the creatures she didn't even see followed them through the maze.

Sometimes they even needed to dug, glass shattering from thrown weapons.

Yeah, they probably didn't like visitors.

Taking the risk, Nabiu shot a stare behind her, noticing that these creatures were indeed made of crystal!

Yet they were…bleeding? Yes, they were bleeding profusely!

Sparking was the blood however, electrocuting to the touch! Which she only figured out BECAUSE THEY WERE SPEWING IT AT HER.

Quite rude! At least get a weapon, like a trusty staff or maybe even a knife! A KNIFE ISN'T ACIDIC!

“I WILL BREAK MY NOSE SOON IF THIS KEEPS UP!”

“JUST BE CAREFUL, LOOK FORWARD AND-”

BANG.

Nabiu forgot they were in a confusing mirror maze.

And might have slammed right with Karoto into a wall, causing both to crack the mirror and fall back onto the floor.

The grunts of pain were received thoughtfully, rolling onto their backs as one of them probably got a concussion.

“O w w w w w w .”

“O W I N D E E D-”

Both groaned, sitting up as Nabiu still heard the steps getting closer, shivering herself as she tried getting up faster, but slipped up!

DAMN YOU, CLEAN FLOOR!!!

“Nabs-! COME ON!”

She was trying! But it didn't help that there was shattered class on the floor!

She…didn't want to bleed-

A lump formed in her throat as she was forced up, but those creatures were getting closer and closer, approaching as they didn't run.

Karoto barely started running and they shattered a mirror nearby, causing both to slip and let out a harsh screech, slipping again out of fear and onto their backs.

Fear gave fatal reactions, despite Karoto desperately scrambling to grab his guitar.

It was dangerous. It was horrifying.

She couldn't pull out her rod in time. Just in the moment they were in a bigger room of the maze-

It launched.

IT SCREAMED-

“SCREEEEEEAA A A A A. R R G G.-”

S L I S H.

CRISH!

Something.

Slammed the creatures into a nearby wall, breaking a hundred mirrors in tow and shattering them too, breaking their fragile skin.

It was the swish of a needle sword, one she recognized from her many interests that included the basics of adventuring.

The figure was wearing a poncho cloak, like hers!

“Disgusting creatures…”

It spoke in a deep voice, dressed in blue, watching the things run for their lives in their heavily damaged state.

Whatever it was, it truly did just save them from doom, for no other reason but kindness!

Probably.

How…weirdly nice in this place!

Did that stop both Karoto and Nabiu from raising their weapons?

Absolutely not.

Katoto especially jumped up, finally properly grabbing his guitar and pointing it at the figure, who turned around and immediately pointed his sword back.

Truly, fierce flares made for a good competition! Which wasn't good right now-

Yet Nabiu noted a singular detail that must not be that important.

It….was a-

“YOU'RE A BLUEBERRY!!!”

Somehow, both's attention had been caught by the little M.A.G.E pointing to the one that had saved them in pure excitement.

How could one not? They looked quite like a hero from her tales!

And surprisingly, the figure seemed to flinch at the sight of her, his shoulders going up along with his shadowed eyes.

Did they know each other?

Maybe a close relative! Or a cousin! OR A-

“....You.. wait. What's your name?”

“Oh, its-”

Nabiu's answer was cut off by Karoto putting his gloved hand on her yapping mouth, looking up with a fierce glare towards the one with a sword.

Still pointing. Still protecting.

Instincts. Instincts of pure knowledge.

“Why should she tell you that, you overgrown basketball?"

A hiss left the bigger blueberry, but it seemed to halt after he inspected them closer.

Something told her that this person was used to the creatures of this space, not actual people!

Slightly lowering his needle, lightly averting his gaze from the other two, deep in thought like those assassins with a tragic backstory!

So cooollll-

“...Hm. Fair point. It probably doesn't help that I don't remember my own name, hm?”

Nabiu silently looked between them, looking at her own rod for a moment, staring and contemplating her actions.

Well, he did just save them! Can't be that bad if he doesn't threaten, kill or even hurt them!

And besides, Karoto and she could always defend each other if it came to such an occasion.

But something gave her a feeling for warmth. Of trust.

One silent pat gave the carrot an opportunity to glance over, noticing those pleading eyes.

Karoto shook his head with squinted eyes.

Nabiu smiled wider and stepped forward, making the bard groan as he kept his breathing steady, always ready for defense.

The blueberry almost hoped he would forget about the maze, especially due to his claustrophobia!

Nobody should be afraid to walk anywhere. Even in tight spaces, hence why she is the emotional support.

Okay, stop forgetting what you need to do. She also still needs to finish her maze sketch later-

NOFOCUS.

With bright eyes meeting hesitant, almost soft ones, she spoke while tugging on the big, blue poncho.

“Well, Mister blueberry. Could you show us anything that might show your safe”

The bigger blueberry hesitated to answer, quietly rubbing his shoulder under the cloak as he stated at one of the hundreds of mirrors.

A reflection of grief she faintly noted, but didn't question upon for now.

Now that she looked at him, she could note the details more!

This blueberry wore a big, dark blue hat, a certain white-outlined scale pattern following along below his hat, all around crystals dangled down on string.

From the way he hid his face for a moment, she also noted a block-like pattern! One up, one down, all with a lighter blue, going all around the edges of the hat!

His poncho cloak was just like hers, just much bigger and including golden patterns. One near the neck, representing waves with points at the end points…

And around the ends of the cloak, being a wave and a spike pattern.

He seemed to be wearing shoes, also in a dark blue color, probably to not have his moves seen easily by enemies!

His face had one eye finally poking out again with a focused and rather stern expression.

But, she realised.

Names might not be an option with an amnesiac.

Something else. Something that a creature doesn't have….hmmmmmm…

“...If not a name, maybe a place? If you don't belong here, then you should have a hide-out! I think-”

Finally, the blueberry seemed to perk up, tapping his gloved finger against his chin before giving a firm nod towards the two.

“I do, actually. I can show you two…even if I'm not fond of the carrot.”

Nabih had to physically stop Karoto from doing anything to the big blueberry. Fighting would not be the best option in a mirror maze of all places!

“Right, because I was protecting a child, you prick.”

…Despite the stern glare that followed for such a comment, the fellow fruit walked forward to the endless halls, giving a small motion to follow and looking back for safety.

The mirrors were all the same as before, not as damaged as the ones that were attacked previously for obvious reasons.

There was a line of shattered glass that was currently preparing itself though, catching her interested.

Always repairing itself. Was that so for the ones previously broken?

“...Who does that blueberry think they are?”

Nabiu couldn't help but shrug, not truly knowing what to do in this situation besides looking in the mirror, cheering herself up by waving at the reflection.

Maybe Karoto felt sympathy, as he forced a small soft, nervous smile and waved too, giving a sight she rarely saw from pure genuine emotion.

Just two mutual siblings, having another adventure in unknown parts of the world, trying to get back home to tell that story to others.

A beautiful sight, despite all the hardships with it.

For a while, it stayed exactly like this.

Walking and walking, making stupid faces and whispering to each other, only sometimes getting a suspicious glance back.

A hesitant murmur left him, turning to his friend and tightening his grip with a familiar fear.

“You think he's some kind of…guard?”

“Maybe! He seems to act like a warrior. Maybe a past warrior!”

Karoto raised a silent brow at that comment and who could blame him at this point?

Warrior or not, they didn't know this blueberry-

“We are here. Please, don't ruin anything.”

But they could get to know them!

“OOOOOO-”

“Nabs, Careful-!”

Completely ignoring the warning, Nabiu stumbled upon the home that the bigger blueberry presented!

It was a small area of the mirror maze that went in a circle, specifically on the right was where the small-hide out was, shown by the fact that there was a blue cloth hanging over it as shade.

There were some rainbow berries, a small makeshift bed of leaves and fabric, a notebook [LIKE HERS!!] and a small corner where a broken needle was kept.

Another thing she noted as Karoto came up beside her was the fact that the mirrors on this side were covered up with anything necessary.

If it was leaves, crystals, cloth, anything-

It covered it all up. The reflection of the self could only be seen on the other side!

…Well, mostly, as the cloth that hung over them seemed to be large enough to cover up the view for the night.

Was there a night here?

All in all, it was quite the evidence of someone resting in a place they don't belong!

“...Wow. This reminds me of the times I had to sleep on the streets- DON’T LOOK AT ME LIKE THAT.”

She was absolutely gonna look at him like a concerned parent.

But to switch up the topic from Pasts long gone, she looked over to the big blueberry with the biggest smile can muster, jumping up and down.

“This looks amazing!!! How long have you been here?”

Tilting his head to the side, they seemed to think for a moment, brushing through the fabric of their poncho and tracing a hand over the mirrors.

Just like a mysterious hero….

Shaking his head with light disappointment, his gaze wandered to them and then to the floor.

“I do not remember. My apologies, it…feels like forever that I have been trapped here.”

She caught a glimpse of Karoto squinting like the skeptical carrot he was, keeping a hand on Nabiu's shoulder for quiet safety.

Though, she could hear music setting in! Really ominous, probably to tell an amazing story full of mystery and amazement and-

“Okay, could you just cut the dramatic crap and cut to the part where you tell us how we can get out?”

RUDE.

The disgusted huff was evident and Karoto couldn't care less for the others' emotions if they didn't get answers.

“You're so petty. Don't you think I tried finding an exit, you naive child?”

A hand waved her off to show he was talking about Karoto.

Still wasn't really excusable.

The bard rolled his eyes heavily at the blueberry’s shot back, deciding that he didn't care for what was impossible at all.

There was always a way in, just like every other treasure room!

This accounted for people as Nabiu had found out.

“You sure you checked everything in this itty bitty place?”

“OF COURSE, I'm sure-! I checked all these mixing and changing places…and…”

But there seemed to be a catch as the carrot crossed his arms, sliding over to the food spot and taking the berries.

Nabiu listened intently however, looking up to the blueberry who got back to thinking.

How long have they been here? Years? Months? If they tried finding food, that could mean quite the time!

She truly didn't want to stay that long

SHE STILL HAD TO FEED THE MUSHROOMS.

“Well, there is…one place I've been avoiding. One that never changes from the ever-changing path.”

“Mhm. Mhm. Yes, can we talk about that on the way to our next objectoooOOHNO-”

Nabiu took a glance to find the carrot trying to fit all the berries in his arms and pockets.

She gestured over to a small bag nearby.

Blinking, he immediately grabbed the bag and stuffed the rainbow berries into that instead, always hungry for more.

A funny sight in this strange dimension.

The blueberry stifled another groan, even if they couldn't help but nod towards what the carrot said.

“It would be good. If the path is peaceful today, we might reach our destination sooner than later.”

And as always, the little M.A.G.E always found herself doodling this information down, grabbing her notebook and holding the blueberry hand.

All the history she could learn here! She could get a good grade in LEARNING!!!

“Can you tell us about yourself on the way? Please? Please with a cherry on top?”

And despite all that harsh attitude?

There was a hint of softness going through that gaze as he wrapped his hand around hers, almost protective.

As if they knew each other.

Oh, maybe during a family reunion! LIKE WHEN SHE WAS A BABY!!!!

“Of course, dear Nabiu.”

A smile was passed through, the moment truly something to behold.

BANG.

THUMP.

…

“Everything alright, Karo-?”

“Y e s. I m f i n e.”

Even if it got interrupted by someone faceplanting onto the floor.

- - - - - - -

- - - - - - —----------

     —- - -

[LOADING CRYSTALIC PATH] . . .

[Tip: Usually, paths teleport you upwards if you fall down from them! But specific areas might give you damage in return. Be careful on your feet!]

- - -

– - - - -

    -- - 

“YOU WERE A ROYAL WARRIOR!?!?”

“I was indeed. And stay a bit quieter, there could be crystalic creatures nearby.”

There was no need to be quiet when the news of her lifetime had been told.

Apparently, the blueberry had lived his life as a royal warrior, defeating bad guys, imprisoning them, making sure real serious justice was served-

Which was constantly followed by backhanded comments from Karoto, following them along the crystal path.

She cannot blame him once again and he did repay it by making funny faces while the warrior wasn't looking!

And! ANDDDD- She drew out the blueberry!

The maze she admittedly forgot, but it was half finished! So she can say the text.

Which was-

MIRROR MAZE

A maze made of mirrors and the living spot of the blueberry! It seemed to also house several monsters that can spawn and end your life!

Hopefully, we won't have to encounter it again.

THE BLUEBERRY WARRIOR!

A blueberry that used to be a royal warrior! He has told of his many tales, apparently has a wife and daughter and used to be part of an old hero team.

He seemed to recognize Wizzro? He also mentioned a fruit bat, a carrot and a broccoli.

He said there might have been another member. One he especially disliked and was close to the other carrot, so perhaps same species?

“Did you slay monsters with your friends?”

There was a certain scoff that came from the blueberry at that, just as Karoto finally joined her side once more.

“Please. We weren't friends. More…companions. A team. If you don't talk about th-”

“Do you need to bring your hate of that vegetable into every conversation?”

Admittedly, Nabiu did have to hear a lot of ramblings.

How stupid they were, how naive, how not-very-smart, almost like that's all he knew about the vegetable!

Hate.

“...No. But I feel like that's why I'm stuck here. Due to someone's horrid mistake.’

“Mmm- Oh, that's what I also wanted to ask! What is this place where we're going?”

He had mentioned that too! A place where he never went too, never quite visited.

Maybe that's how they could return to Wizzro and the others, finally finishing up the trip and showing the history to the world!

It could be a breakthrough, showing off a never-before seen dimension! THEY COULD BE ARCHITECTS!!! THEY COULD GET-

If Nabiu didn't need to listen, she would have sparkled on and on, but the blueberry was talking.

“It is something I call the ‘Crystal Keeper’. Even if it's not a person, it holds a huge amount of energy that keeps me away…”

A snort came from her side and she sadly couldn't prevent the jabs that Karoto would make.

"Too scared to go to itty bitty crystal, bronze warrior?”

All that silver tongue for such a small carrot.

Only receiving a small in response, the bard huffed, quietly making sure that no one fell over the weirdly correctly laid-out plates.

They formed a path! To a platform!

F A R A W A Y !

Well, a bit of walking doesn't hurt anyone!

“...I have my reasons to not go there. I feel weak and my whole body hurts, which doesn't make it a good place to fight.”

Silence reigned, only sparkling continuing as the blueberry was allowed to speak more gesturing around.

“These paths always change, having different platforms and places. But the path to the crystal always has the same requirement.”

Nabiu perked up while Karoto stuffed his hands into his pockets.

“And that is?”

“Visit three areas without retreating in one singular path.”

“Pussy.”

“What- WHAT are you blabbering about, you-”

“Oh, I'm sorry.” Karoto spoke out, stepping forward and stopping her in her path, causing trouble for the sake of trouble.

Some people have complicated mindsets. Snarkiness can turn to pettiness and egotistical quickly.

Once again, she can only judge but not blame.

“You're trapped here for what- Years? Months? And you don't get out because of a crystal making you weak?”

The blueberry face contorted into rage for a moment, sharp like a knife and the complete opposite of Karoto's smirk, knowing and indirect.

Amusement and anger grew through the air...till the other gave a surprisingly calmed huff, keeping up the walking speed.

“...You're not wrong. I usually don't shy away from battle.’

There was a whisper.

A whisper she almost didn't catch-

“...You're unlike him. I think? He wasn't….no, less snarky. More..optimistic…urgh.”

Must have a bad case of amnesia.

The Queen has some too as she heard, caused from what seemed to be trauma on two separate cases? Just one more severe.

Or what was it?

As much as she cared, she hadn't written it down yet! Oh no!!!

“Whatever- This should be the first.”

That didn't seem to matter right now though.

Looking up from her book and the two's banter, there was a staircase leading to a giant circle, seeming to house some kind of orb!

All in nice porcelain, pretty and pristine!

“This strange being is- HEY, CHILD-”

“Just let her, she's like a nuclear bomb of kindness.”

All spoken words were ignored for the excitement of new knowledge, springing up to the strange orb that floated there like it was on break.

Hmm..what would suffice?

A greeting? Perhaps a gentle pat? Hello's usually work, so let's start with that!

“Hello, friendly orb!”

That seemed to work well, as movements occurred and-

That's an eyeball.

That's just an eyeball actually.

Nabiu assumed that she should be more surprised, but the confused blinking it was doing was not hiding away its innocence.

Giving a friendly wave, she opened up her book, looking over all the details as the concept of creepy social hints were foreign to her.

“Can I draw you?”

“LITTLE CHILD, THAT IS A BEAST!”

“Relax, it's literally not doing anything, blue coconut.”

There were three energies in the room as of currently.

One was assuming that everything's a danger and knew itself around these parts.

One didn't truly care about anything but the little energy's safety and was starting to strum its guitar.

And the third was drawing the eye that allowed it with a nod, having alm the joy and whimsy in the world.

Karoto happily sat down beside Nabiu once again, looking at the eyeball with its rainbow pupil and quite the curious gaze.

“...He…Hey, buddyyyyy….”

An awkward start, but she appreciated the attempt from the carrot, even if the eye might not understand.

Or maybe, it did.

Because suddenly, it's eyes widened, pupil getting bigger and bigger and seemingly starting to expel a fluid-

Wait, IS IT CRYING???

Stopping her drawing that she had finished anyway, she looked up in pure surprise at the eye suddenly moving towards Karoto.

“Hey, H-HEY- Space- I need space, you needy thing-!!”

But that didn't stop the eye from snuggling closer, spilling the tears all over his jacket and causing the other to hesitantly wrap his arms around it.

The little blueberry couldn't help but giggle at the absurdity, rubbing the side out of empathy as well.

“Awe, poor thing! Maybe it's lonely.”

Yet despite this display of warmth and need, only showing it towards Karoto-

An audible grunt was heard, coming from the fun police itself, glaring over to the eye with no remorse.

“Then maybe it should start using normal ways to reach out to others.”

Nabiu couldn't restrain the silent frown that came from that comment.

Not everyone was able to do things normally! Everyone has their issues and illnesses and problems, interactions can be very hard!

She knew that very, very well.

Too well, actually.

Though, Karoto didn't seem to mention it, as he was too busy being smothered by the tears of an affectionate body part.

“Could we just move on? Nobody needs this long to cry from looking at someone.”

Karoto huffed, staring at the old man like he would with every single other guard that he encountered.

It truly made no good relationship.

“What's your deal? It's not doing anything.”

“But it's still a pest. It could be a facade for all you know, but you're just standing there, indulging its desires!”

The blueberry snarled, taking a step forward while keeping his head down low, obscuring the protective anger with his hat.

Well, she understood from the previous context that he was probably used to everything attacking him like the lycans-!!

But this thing wasn't doing anything. Had he encountered it before and attacked it? Wouldn't it have attacked immediately upon seeing him though?

And he was still sneaking towards the crying eyeball, mixing its colors to its emotions.

Going towards them, already seeming to bring out his needle beneath his cloak-

WAIT, THATS BAD ACTUALLY-

“WAIT-! We don't need to hurt it! IT COULD BE NICE!!”

Apparently, this warrior didn't want his attack to be alerted with the way his eyes widened.

And apparently.

The eyeball can switch up emotions in a quick second.

As a depressing blue suddenly turned into a pinpricked black, glaring so hard into the blueberry that it might as well have been a laser.

And a moment passed.

And one more.

And-

“UhhhhhwhWHOAWHA-

BEFORE IT ROLLED AGAINST THE BLUEBERRY AND KICKED HIM AND ITSELF OFF THE PLATFORM.

“YOOOOOO, STRIKE!”

“KAROTO, NO-”

Nabiu didn't share the joy of seeing someone getting kicked off a platform and ran over, watching the ball disappear into the void with-

THUMP-

“URGH-”

“ARGH-”

THUMP.

Ow.

Owowowowwwwwwwowiiiieeeee.

“Nabs, you alright-?!”

Getting a probably 40 year old blueberry thrown against her was not the comfiest experience, she has to admit.

Quietly, she gave a weak nod as she was helped up, rubbing her head and picking up her book again as Karoto kneeled beside her.

Checking up, brushing off the dust, readjusting her hat and the moment he stood up…

Of course, he was glaring at the warrior again, judging every action with precision.

“So. How about we don't risk everyone's lives by attacking the giant eyeball again, hm?”

There was a hiss before the warrior forced himself up again, still gripping that needle like a lifeline.

Karoto was extremely aware of such cues and ushered Nabiu behind him, giving a silent stare in return for as long as needed.

Both stared for a few moments, feeling like entire minutes passing by.

The few moments this lasted, the blueberry seemed to soften up at the sight of her once again, loosening the grip.

Letting out sighs seemed to be a tradition today.

“...You're all too kind to these things."

“Maybe you should trust our instincts, old man.”

Where silence befell them, the small scratches of a pen finishing up the text filled the space, keeping the design to the mind.

Absently and with concern, she checked the edge of the platform again.

No eyeball in sight.

At least…she had the memory drawn and written out.

Poor thing.

RAINBOW EYEBALL

A friendly eyeball with a rainbow pupil, seeming to be quiet calm and a master at staring contests.

It started to cry at the sight of Karoto and attacked the blueberry with ferocity. I wonder if it's truly just the behavior.

“...I apologize for the fact I endangered Nabiu.”

Bitterness rang through that sentence way too easily, especially with the scowl that Karoto barely tried to hide with such a sentence.

Maybe, the blueberry preferred protecting kids?

Still a weird sentence. What did carrots ever do to him?

Or was it a specific carrot?

Peeking out, the awkwardness was rising like a tsunami about to destroy a city and there was only one way to fix this situation for everyone.

Even if she may not always like the method.

They needed to get going. The eyeball might just be taking a rest! Hopefully. Please.

“If uhm. This is done…We could keep going?”

Both adult figures peeked over and the old blueberry gave a nod, absently patting the head of the small blueberry with the same gentleness as before.

“A good idea. The faster we go, the faster we can bring you both home.”

“Sure, if you don't accidently kill more eyeballs on the way.”

Karoto liked bullying people, she knew that.

Leaving the platform once more, she decided that she might as well get more information, walking forward while holding Karoto's hand.

She wasn't sure if the big blueberry liked hand-holding.

“I'm not sure if family is a good subject currently…How was your job? As a warrior!”

It was an interesting question.

Royal warriors were quite the different breed among everyone, having bounties, missions and getting lots of money.

So many aspects to benefit from! SO MUCH HISTORY AND IDEAS AND FORMS-!!!

“Yeah, kill anyone?”

While a low grunt came in response to the carrots comment especially, a talk had been started anyway.

“I was known for that, yes. I was successful, rarely ever failing my tasks and succeeding at most all of them. A royal warrior has to bring justice after all.”

Justice.

Justice tasted weird depending on the person, especially if you have a corrupted view.

Something told her that while the blueberry may have a case of that, he was still trying his best to do the right thing!

She….hoped.

Especially if she went after Karoto’s experience with heroes. And all the teams she met! Those were nice!

"Though, I did get stupidly side-tracked by that stupid month-long team mission….”

Oh yeah! That…team.

That team. With the carrot, broccoli, Wizzro, fruit bat and…the other carrot?

Well, she wasn't sure about that last one, but it felt right. Somehow, it truly did.

“Needing to fight a dangerous monster with those lunatics. At least I could respect most of them.”

“And that includes Wizzro, yeah?”

Karoto standing up for Wizzro was a rare thing, but something kind nonetheless.

“...Indeed. Wizzro was smart, knowing and always made inventions, even when others tried to bring him down. Admirable, truly.”

And that was nothing more than correct.

Looking ahead after such a turbulent talk, she noted a singular crystal boat in the middle of nowhere.

It was big enough for the three of them, quite the look-through beauty that could show her all the fish in this land and more!

The sky changed in that direction, turning into a beautiful starlit nightsky, having all the purple’s and blue’s you would need for your comfort.

The only problem in all this beauty?

“Please don't tell me the ocean is actually electrified.”

“It most definitely is, young carrot.”

“Mmmmmmmpffhh I hattteee this placcce urgggggggghhhhh.”

She could feel the annoyed stare from the warrior from here, even as she hopped into the boat and made space for the two adventurers.

“Keep quiet already. Help me move the boat, we won't need to row in this river.”

Karoto begrudgingly helped the fruit push the most in motion, jumping in with quick precision and relaxing back.

Mister blueberry simply pulled out his needle, brushing over it with his finger and watching the stars.

Nabiu was content looking through the glass and inspecting the fish that seemed to swim around in the lake, pulling out her book once more.

Silence was for a good while all that was heard, her concentration completely on the page.

….Though.

There was a sound.

Music? Someone was singing in a language she couldn't understand.

How strange.

Soft splashing sounds were heard as they kept going and going, water giving its way to new opportunities for them to get home.

The fishes swam with them, crystalized to completion, almost as sparkly as the Starry sky just above them.

While Nabiu leaned over curiously to watch the water, the dear fruit spoke.

“...I'm sorry if I'm cautious. You remind me of my daughter and I…feel like I should be protecting you.”

Both of the lost travelers perked up, staring at the fruit who had been stuck here for much longer than both of them.

Leaning back and readjusting his grip on his needle, he watched its reflection with a fierce stare.

“I feel like my memories were never there. Fading like I am not truly a real person. Like they don't belong to me.”

A horrible feeling.

Memories make a person. Without memories, you might as well not be classified as the person you were before.

Who are you if not fractures of people you met?

Who are you, without a sense of self.

Maybe…Maybe, they could assist and a gentle nudge towards the carrot could suffice.

Nabiu had remembered something after all.

“...Sir blueberry, did you get really, really hurt before?”

A surprised blink, tilting his head to the side as he tried recalling such a moment…but nodding after a minute.

Now with a higher grip.

“I have. It was- it was due to…something? I'm not sure, my apologies.”

Though, every question had a lead. A reason perhaps, even if one might not know it.

“Why do you ask, little moon?”

If Nabiu knew anything, it was that the moment her eyes met with Karoto’s, she noted that they both really didn't know how to answer such a question.

Their eyes widened and with no knowledge on how to say this, the wildcard decided to use his silver tongue.

“We apparently saw your memories in a giant ball.”

Not even his smile could fix that sentence.

Despite that, the warrior seemed relatively calm with the response given, only seeming to grow annoyed at the thought.

“Oh, that place. Yeah, it seems to have memories that belonged to me. I recall them, but…”

Hesitance as the sparks around them intensified for a moment, moon shining from above, intertwining with the lightning.

Just like the old religion told!

“...It's fleeting. These memories don't stay.”

How could one respond to such a thing? 

Nabiu sure couldn't and with all of the bard's trauma, he still couldn't respond to these sayings at all, keeping the ride in silence once more.

Maybe…

Maybe he could come along? He did say he had a wife and child!

Then- Then they could figure out his name! His job! HIS FRIENDSSSS!!!!

“WHAT IF YOU COME WITH UOOAAAHHWIWW-”

“CAREFUL. PLEASE.”

She almost just tipped the boat into the electric lake, clinging onto Karoto like a frail cat that had just been grabbed.

Luckily, no book and rod was lost!

A relieved sigh escaped all of them, slowly readjusting again as Nabiu looked at the stars once more, noting down some info.

For once, Karoto spoke up, crossing his arms.

“What was your family like.”

“Hm?”

With a silent sigh, the carrot propped himself up, crossing one leg over the other.

It was a look of persistence. A look that wanted information and perhaps hid a hint of sympathy despite it all.

“Your family. You say you struggle to remember things, so…talk. Talk about what you have.”

Karoto rarely comforted others and well- he didn't have too! Not everyone is good at comfort!!!

But it was appreciated.

As the seconds passed by with the blueberries nervous mumbling, he spoke up once more, radiating quite the absolutely-not-patient energy.

“Come on! I'm stuck here on a boat while we drive through an electric ocean, let me have some entertainment, old man!”

There was a grumble…

But somehow, Karoto was able to grasp a chuckle out of the old blueberry, slowly adjusting his sword and cleaning off the dust.

“...You remind me of my daughter. She was always, uhm…allowed to fight with a wooden sword, slowly adjusting her to bigger weapons.”

“YOU ALLOWED WEAPONS FOR YOUR KID???”

Nabiu was allowed to be flabbergasted! Her father was sometimes worried she would accidently hurt herself!

Her mom allowed it though! Seems pretty assured it wouldn't do anything.

Another chuckle left the blueberry, visibly relaxing for once and tipping his head upward.

“Yes, yes. I trusted her and as long as she kept safe, she would be safe.”

A softer side which almost sounded unreal started to show here, one which both the blueberry and the carrot seemed to enjoy.

“Good, Good. Keep it coming, coconut.”

And from then, more info was given!

“My Wife took care of our daughter, always making sure I was okay and still being able to banter. Hah, i…almost couldn't describe her looks. Like that slipped too.”

Such a bitter tone, yet so unsure.

How could one not even know what their wife looks like?

“My team, they…God, they…I don't remember the names well.”

Stifling a breath, he made a clear attempt to bring out information, like cooking a complicated meal with a recipe, trying to follow its instructions.

“The broccoli woman loved all fighting styles, the bat was a maniac ... the Mage carrot was quite loving of multi-elemental magic, Wizzro, the human..liked…inventions, liked appreciation. I respected them.”

Though, the warrior muttered under his breath.

“Unlike that naive, dumb piece of-...crap.”

Perhaps that was a point that needed to be spoken about.

“What is your beef with carrots actually? Like, why SPECIFICALLY carrots-?”

A fair question as any kind of disdain for other species usually didn't happen!

Lots and lots got along, their weird ways accepted and perhaps neutralized with the hundreds of other issues the world had.

It didn't even have a name and Nabiu was somehow happy about it.

But the blueberry seemed to shake his head, looking down at the water which sparked along, seeming to almost look back.

“...No. No, I don't hate carrots. I hated a specific carrots and you're reminding me of them.”

One quiet snarl and a higher grip.

“I feel rage at everything I even think of that bastard. Such a naive, pathetic, disrespectful prick-”

“So, I'm a disrespectful prick?”

Clear questions needed clear answers and Nabiu would never interrupt such thing unless necessary.

“...No. No, you're a lot snarkier. Less optimistic. Less…loud and naive.”

The squinting was felt from Nabiu’s position, quietly writing down the last note.

“Even when I can't remember their name or their appearance or their clothes or whatever they did-! It feels like all of it is their fault. All of it.”

With that snarl, it felt like the sounds and music finally quietened down, leaving her to finish the last note.

ELECTRIC OCEAN

An ocean full of electricity and weird looking fish, just above a Starry sky.

Quite the calm location with a sweet ambience!

Now, it was done and they seemed to be gaining on land.

“Ohmygodfinallytheressomelandinsight.”

All of them were happy to finally be able to see the dock from a close distance, being stained with some sort of red liquid!

It was old wood and-

Wait.

“...Oh no. God, why this area-?”

“Why? What's up with it, Sherlock?”

Something felt off.

For a moment, she realised that the liquid flowing down onto the electrified river and somehow neutralising it was-

“How good are you two with a massive corpse blanket and crystalized statues that show organs?”

…

The faces they made probably told how speechless they were at such a sentence.

And the sigh of the blueberry didn't help.

“Of course…Just take my hands, close your eyes and follow me. I'll guide you, children.”

“I'm 23???”

“And I'm 41, so maybe use your proper talking voice when you're speaking.”

Nabiu knew the carrots' offended face.

And that sure was offended with how much it was scrunched up and pinpricked.

Hesitantly jumping out of the boat and grabbing Karoto's hand to pull him out, both intertwined their hand with the blueberrys.

“...It'll go fast, I promise you that. Even if I wouldn't mind the carrot having some pain.”

“Oh, haha shut up.”

So, that's how they went along, walking somewhere with only darkness to be their companion in this place.

….As everything went along, coming somewhere where she couldn't see where they were going.

The smell. Hit her.

Oh God the smell was horrendous and she had heard how Karoto gagged as it entered.

Metal and rot filled the entire space, the wet squelching of shoes stepping on long forgotten meat was all she could hear.

Her legs left the ground, presumably being picked up to not have the same feeling as the others.

“Holy- W-What are we walking in-”

“Don't talk. Keep walking and it'll be over.”

The stench of sea salt and freshly cleaned porcelain mixed with it all and made it no better, only intensifying the sensation.

No breath was taken.

It shouldn't be this. Important. It shouldn't be. It shouldn't be.

But it feels like she should be hearing more breaths than three as they walked through the array of what she can only assume…were corpses.

And maybe, Karoto took a glance as she heard a sob.

“This is w…wrong..-”

“...Steady. Don't keep the imagery in your head.”

“THANKS, I SURE CAN CONTROL THIS SHIT, YOU BASTARD-”

It was harsh sarcasm.

Why wouldn't it be?

They kept walking. Walking. Going tap…no. It went more like horrid squelching and cracking as they went through this graveyard.

Hoping it'll be over.

Pushing her head so hard into the poncho, just so she saw nothing of it.

And then-

“Aaa aa a a a Ah. Your alm out. A l m so t the r e e.”

“I'm aware. Open the gate.”

Someone was talking with the blueberry.

It was a broken voice, something she couldn't recognize in any way, coming from someone she didn't dare look at.

“N ot gon an e ve en s a”

“I'm not here for you, disgusting, realistic carrot. Your human eyes are disgusting.”

“A ah h.”

She didn't want to think of the appearance.

She didn't want to think of any of it.

“....Oh, Friend. Friend. Friend. Friend.”

“You know this is the end. You know after this obstacle. what. What will come. Or don't you?”

No response.

She could hear a broken chuckle.

“Oh. Of. Of course yo do w hy wou you.”

“Your not truly Him. He's not

“Go

“Lu

…They were walking again as the voice broke completely, cracking filling the air as they kept going.

Somewhere.

Anywhere.

Nowhere?

There was a sound of a door opening and the blueberry was talking again.

“It's done. Open your eyes, we will have to fight some crystal beings.”

Nabiu snapped her eyes open, looking around and noticing a giant crystalic door closing behind them, meaning it was over.

Apparently, the blueberry didn't mind being coated in blood and crystalic leftovers.

That didn't stop the intense stare that Karoto gave him, quickly removing her from his grass and putting her on the ground.

“I despise you in a way, by the way. If you want that info.”

“You can do that if it'll aid you in the fight, carrot.”

Nabiu silently rubbed her arms, grabbing her echo rod and looking over to Karoto with evident fear in her eyes.

There was always kindness and reassurance looking back, patting her on the shoulder and giving that sweet reassurance she needed.

Even if it only helped a tiny bit right now.

“Are you all ready? It's one round and we are done. You can go home.”

“WE-’

“We will see about that, little Moon”

Fun police.

At last, there was nothing more to focus on than the dark space shining with light, giving way to a platform floating in the middle of nowhere.

It was pitch black here, no stars to be seen and giving the creatures time to spawn!

Plopping into existence, she silently counted-

Exactly 4 CRYSTAL CREATURES!!! They all looked like dogs!

Or lycans.

Mmmpfh.

It was time to forget her trauma by beating up random creatures with her best friends! Or one of her best friends.

It seemed that the warrior wanted to do precise planning. After all, he was a warrior and very trustful, even if one single round could be easy-

“Alright, We should attack them from the back, trick them to hit each other while you push them away and-”

BANG.

“SCRRRRRRRREEeeeeee-”

“I.”

“OOOOOOHH, GOOD IDEA!”

Karoto seemed to take enjoyment by banging the crystal creatures from the platform, leaving only a loud scream behind as the other creatures looked dumbfounded.

They have not met Karoto before.

And not her!

YEETING CREATURES OFF THE PLATFORM SEEMED LIKE FUN!!!

And it was fast!

“WAITFORMEIWANTSOMETOO-”

“MOONSHINE, WAIT-!”

With a quick flick of her rod, she grabbed onto the next lycan, rolling out of the way from one that sped past her and did the same as her brother-figure.

Throw them off and leave them to fall into the nothingness below!

It reminded her of the eyeball again.

She didn't know why that specific memory stuck to her.

She was left to shrug it off as Karoto got behind her, pressing back to back and seeming to beckon the warrior closer with a chuckle and a wave.

“YO, BLUE! COME OVER HERE AND HAVE FUN!!!”

The blueberry however, was not amused at all and stared at them like they were baffling buffoons who didn't know any better.

What a bummer.

Nabiu wanted to be closer.

Maybe they could be once they're out! MAYBE THEY COULD BE LIKE A PARENTAL FIGURE! GET CLOSER!!!!

AAAAAAA THE POSSIBILITIES AND THE FACT THEY COULD MAKE POTIONS OR DRAWINGS TOGETHER!!

Just a bit of a nudge couldn't hurt!

So, she waved over as well, ignoring the confused crystal monster's face as she jumped along with Karoto.

“COME ON!!! YEET THEM OFF THE STAGE. YEET THEM OFF THE STAGE, YEET THEM-”

One could question their sanity by looking at these two's buffoonery, but the blueberry seemed to cave in for the moment.

“...Dear God, what have I've been reduced too-”

And in just a moment-

SWISH-

BANG.

“SCRRRRRRREEEeeeeee-”

“WOOOOOOO!”

“YEAAHHH, GO, OLD MAN!! FUCK EM UP, FUCK EM UP!!!”

While she didn't agree with the heavy swearing, she WAS cheering on the warrior with the same bravado as Karoto!

Playing along must be such a nice thing after such a long time.

And the blueberry even stroke a cool pose, albeit unintentional, which made it EVEN BETTER.

“Alright, what about theeooooooohhhh-”

Usually, sentence trailing only happened when something absurd was being noticed that maybe should have been noticed earlier.

A crystal creatures shaking its hand, waving goodbye and jumping off itself was probably the absurd thing about this.

All of which wasn't easily ignored.

“Do. Do we even want to. Like.”

“I prefer we don't keep ourselves in here, fellow carrot.”

“Indeed! We're almost there!!!”

She didn't mind the fact that this was easy! Some dungeons or places simply didn't require that much skill! Or perhaps it was a mercy!

Or they needed to fight a bigger boss soon.

She didn't like that thought.

But nonetheless, she jumped on ahead to the forming crystal path, increasing its drawing distance with that information as well!

“It should be right there-! Be…ARGH-”

Nabiu didn't expect the heavy flinch from the warrior and neither did Karoto.

How did she know?

Because the moment the blueberry lurched over in a vomiting motion, the carrot in lights peed grabbed onto him and supported it all.

“WOAH- Hey, you Good-!? Coconut-?”

Pained groans came from her beloved friend while panic grew in her, running back to the one that shook and gasped.

Taking a shaky breath, the blueberry spoke with fading coughs.

“I-Its...f-fine. This is…what happ..happens-”

A quick pat was given to Karoto's back, nudging forward to the giant construction that they were currently heading towards.

“I..-It's ahead. Co- …Go ahead. Please. I want you.. you t-two to get home.”

Even if he was coughing and holding onto Karoto, who was currently frowning in concern for the one he disliked, he kept going on.

Wanting to help them.

Wanting to lead them home.

Nabiu didn't want to take the hope away, the possibility of him finally going home too.

“...Alright. But please, take it slow, sir-!”

“Yeah, don't die here. We still kinda need to know how to, uhm. Move on.”

They all did their best, even by helping him downstairs as she headed forward to examine the construct.

It…was quite beautiful, like most of the stuff that had been going around here.

It was a huge blue platform, going around almost like a carousel in all its different tints and shines, sparkling as if someone poured glitter on it.

The top was a small round roof, seeming to resemble the stars, shining in a low purple as everything around it was black anyway.

It was comforting to see the same crystals that hung around the blueberrys head to be hung here, glittering in the emptiness.

No more Crystal pieces. No more glass. Just a pitch black void with a platform and a roof.

Though, there were a few walls here and there, just a tiny bit maze like, almost as if to shield someone standing behind it.

Even if you would have to run towards it to fulfill that goal!

All in all, it sure was a pretty platform with pretty crystals!

But there was no way home.

Quietly, she raised a brow and turned around towards the two adults, watching Karoto carry the elder over.

“Huh. So, uhm. Where's the big old crystal you were talking about?”

Karoto couldn't help but ask, looking around in silent confusion as he looked up, probably trying to find a hole that they might have fallen into earlier.

It was quick thinking, but she wasn't sure if the hole location could change from the beginning.

Worry grew in her stomach once more as she approached, looking at the shaking warrior who seemed to be getting worse and worse-

She didn't want him hurt! They could find another way if this was not it!

“Mister blueberry?”

Yet there was no reply.

Only shaky breaths, coughing and gripping harder and harsher, perhaos trying to force an answer out, trying to do an-

“ARRGCOUGH-”

S P L A T.

And

He vomited-

“HOLY-”

Nabiu couldn't Stop herself from physically flinching away from the splattered blood on the ground.

Karoto actually lost his grip from shock too, taking a sudden step away from the cracking blueberry-

Why was he- WHY WAS HE CRACKING-??

“MISTER BLUEBERRY-!! AR- ARE YOU-”

“I . AM. I - a m.”

He suddenly started to stutter, coughing up blood and something like the crystals-

Pouring and pouring as his body cracked along the edges, forcing itself apart like a horrifying concoction that acted like a made of porcelain.

Her brstepp-figure stepped before her even if she didn't want to be protected. She didn't need too. How could she be?

HER FRIEND WAS IN PAIN.

“I- Y O U. I R E M E M B E R. Y O U R M Y-”

It stepped forward and coughed up more.

If she didn't want to just forget about this all and ignore what was spilling on the ground-

Then she faintly noticed that there were pieces of lung and heart and vein and-

Karoto forced her to take another step back because he knew best and she didn't and she was horribly afraid.

She was a child logically.

Logically, a child should be protected from a real, horrible danger.

Logically, Her brain really wanted to satisfy its curiosity for knowledge once more and get closer.

Even if logically. She really shouldn't.

A bated breath was between the two as Karoto pulled out his guitar once more preparing for what seemed to be inevitable.

What.

What was inevitable.

“...Do not step closer if you don't want to hurt us.”

A child's game, but it was still Karoto who said it, who was an adult.

For a moment, the blueberries eyes met.

The old blueberry.

Barely had a spark in their eyes, staring forward as their eyes seemed to nearly bleed away the whites, showing its true nature.

What nature. What nature would it be?

THAT’S HER FRIEND. HE WAS SO FRIENDLY-

And like the warrior accepted the small little game.

He.

Stepped.

Forward-

By Karoto's quick choked breath and forward pull of the guitar, directly pointed at what was once a companion, a parental figure, a friend-

He didn't expect this response either.

Didn't want it to be true.

“....Coconut-”

“I. C. A A N T. B R E A A A A. TT . E E E E.”

“A R. E E . Y OU. TH ER R E . G. O. D”

Nabiu was starting to tear up. It felt so hot, stinging her fresh vision and blurring it away from the abomination that was falling apart, still gripping the needle as hard as it needed too.

Brcause that was it's. Purpose?

What that it's purpose?

Was it an it? Was it all a facade a lie-

“A s. The warrior of- of- the people….”

It sounded like a tape.

A tape being repeated after hundreds of rewinds, being fabricated once more to re-enact the person that it was supposed to be.

And then.

It held the needle to the side with broken limbs, not caring for its decaying body.

“I. WILL. E N D. Y O U ‘ R E. L I F E, J U S T. L I K E. H E. E N D E D. M I N E.”

Nabiu wouldn't have dodged the indirect swing if Karoto hadn't restricted his gasp and pulled her away, keeping her from screaming-

BANG!

And blocking the hit and the creature that was screaming and banging against his guitar like a feral animal.

Holding none of that precise and masterful grip that the other blueberry once had, forever gone.

She wished not.

Please let her simple mindset be rewarded.

“Oh no, you don't-”

Parrying the repetitive blow of the needle banging against the metal, Karoto swung his guitar, pushed the blueberry away and swinging it up-

BANG!

-Hitting whatever was left of the warrior straight into the face, catching an agonising scream while it gripped onto its face.

It was in pain.

It could feel pain and it was alive and-

And Karoto dragged her away immediately after, picking her up and running towards the walls she had mentioned before.

She couldn't understand this. Not any of this as she could barely watch the blueberry writhe and shake with its shattered body.

Pure agony, its flesh visible and full of hatred.

Has this been the plan all along? Was this story and pain nothing more than a facade?

For a moment, she didn't want to be smart and just be stupid, not think about ALL THIS STUPID, COMPLICATED MESS-

“GOD- I knew it, I KNEW IT-”

“That- it-it c-cant be…him-”

Karoto pressed himself so hard against the wall that it might have left a dent, constantly checking for the poor confused creature they were fighting.

Nabiu checked herself despite all her internal protests, immediately pulling away and forgetting the image and NOT THINKING ABOUT IT.

SHE DIDN’T WANT TOO.

If the carrot was any madder, he might have just hit his fist against the wall, but refrained from doing so.

For their safety, especially because they needed to get out of there.

With

Without her friend-

Panicked breaths left her as Karoto squatted down, grabbing onto her shoulders to get her attention.

“Nabs. Nabiu.”

Nabiu couldn't hide the tears welling in her face at the sounds of stomping, seeming to still look around for them, feeling all these emotions-

Confusion, annoyance, perhaps concern or worry-

“WE need to get out of here.”

It was so clear.

Yet Nabiu didn't want to accept it, even as she whispered all her thoughts out and couldn't even keep on sight with the one who loved her.

The one she knew was real.

“But- But-”

“No. No buts right now, I'm sorry.”

Almost as if to comfort himself, he fixed a phantom mess for his scarf, averting his eyes before forcibly focusing then again.

She wondered what must be going through his head.

Panic? Perhaps utter hatred? Betrayal?

A hint for empathy he can't act on due to the situation?

What did she know? She wasn't a complete expert.

“I…think that thing is a replica or something. Maybe this stupid warrior existed at some point, but-”

“W H ERRREEE. A R EE. YO UUUUUU.”

“...I don't think that we are looking at the real thing. We need to use the cymbal trick, Okay?”

Nabiu almost forgot about that.

Using a cymbal, both would go on it, grabbing her rod and using another object to bounce off with, with a quick flick of a rod.

Extreme speeds with the right angle would shoot them up-

Giving a chance to arrive back home.

That meant they needed to fin-

CRACK!

….

FIND A SURFACE BEFORE THEY GET SHOT-!

“CRAP-”

Deciding they didn't want to be a tasty kebab, both Nabiu and Karoto ran off from the wall that had crumbled to bits by the horrifying blueberry.

Apparently, shooting needles was its speciality now! Wonderful! Why can't I be friendly needles thouAAAGRG-

CRACK!

“ComeooncomeonCOMEON-”

While they ran, Karoto threw his dice in the air, purposefully manipulating the side by hitting it in the air a few times before it clattered on the floor before them-

Click.

HE ROLLED A 2!

HOORAY TO THE STUPIDITY OF CHEATING!!

“YESYESYESYES-”

Though, even as Karoto's cymbals finally formed, more and more walls started to crumble into bits by a needle or an angry blueberry smashing into them.

Which wasn't good if they wanted something to fling off on!

They can't use malformed blocks or weird pieces if their just crumbles, both of them need to be on, so-

Oh.

Ooooohhhh, this-

A cruel idea struck her.

A cruel idea that might just work, but is incredibly not to her liking in any way possible.

It may just be-

“KAROTO, JUMP ON THE CYMBAL, ILL GUIDE US!!!”

“UHHHHHHHDOITRUSTACHILDSUREWHYNOT- FINE, ALRIGHT DO YOUR BEST-!”

With the semi-trust of Karoto by her side, the carrot threw the cymbal to the ground as the second-to-last was crumbled, grabbing her arm and dragging her on it-

Their sizes fit perfectly and with the last wall just behind them-

FLING!

SHHHHEWWWWW-

She needed to apologize one more time to the one last down below.

“IM SO SORRY!! WE WILL FIND A WAY TO HELP YOU, I PROMISE-!”

“ I I I I I I -”

BANG-

SHHHHHHHHHHHEWWWWWWW-

Up it went.

Grabbing onto the cymbal like a lifeline as it shot upwards, seeing something like a glimmer of light approaching.

This must be the entrance, this must be where they came from!

She's.

Sorry.

She's so sorry but it'll be alright, he will be alright, they'll find out his name-!

THEY WILL SAVE HIM-

- - - - - - -

- - - - - - —----------

     —- - -

[LOADING MUSEUM PARTS] . . .

[Tip: N̸̤̳̪̈́̀̓̎͋͋̐̀͌̓i̸͕̗͙̬͓͒h̴̨̫̰͕̥̮̪̖̝͔̠̀͑̆́i̶̡͙͌̒̂͛̍̂̒̓͆͂͝ļ̷̡̡̙͉̼͈̾̾̈́͋͒̂̏͗̐͘̕ ̶̳͔͖̥̯̝̹̲͚̱͗̃̂͌̇̉̈͘͘̕̕ͅv̸̼̹̭͖̥̞̱̎̈ę̶̺͚͍͔̫̜̩̦̑̓͌̕̕͝r̶̯̜̠̭̀̍́͌͋̊͒̈͐̋ǘ̵͉̑͆̀́̀̽̉̚͝m̸̥̮̱̿̈́̈́͝ ̴̡̠̼̫̤̇̀͝ȩ̷̢̢̛̟̺̲̜͍͚̱̰̾̿̾̈́͋̿̔̂r̵̟̪̬̮̲̈́͆͌́̃á̷̢̯̲͇̣̺͓̣͌̔͊̅̽̃͋̽̒͝t̶͉̠̣̀̊͝.̴̨̖̙̥͈̤̣̿̆́ ̵̼̣̱̈́F̶̢̓͒̓ŗ̷̫̰̗͌ā̶̙̜̯̻͓ù̸̙̭͈̝̰̼̗̗͋͐̌̆̃͛̀̇͘͜s̸̢̪̩͍̖̩̗̟̤̭͎̔͠͠͝ ̷̢̧͉̞̣̪̘̺̥̾͊̽̿̓̊͋͘ṭ̸̨͚͍̻̭͕̜̳̟͗͐̄͂̅̐́͑̒̚͜͝a̶̡̧͎̗͈̦̦̬̳̽͋̓͘̚n̴̨͍̰̞̦̙̩̲̋t̴̢̧̤̙̙͓͇͉̠̀͂͐̀̆͒̓̎͝͝ͅų̴̟̟͙̲̋̈́͂͗͆͒͜͠ͅm̷̢̨̝̣̪̯̠̹̰̦͒̃́̒͑̆̈́͆̚͝͝ ̴̛̻̘̪̞̻̅́̑́̓̑̓̀͠ė̶͔̣̬͈̦̭͍̘̜͇̏̃ṛ̶̑̑̉̄̋̄̾ą̴̝͉͓̝̹͓̠̲͌̌̾͌́̔͗̊̒̃͠t̸̲̙̿̒̕.̴̨̢̨̠̳̍̉̄͑͂̾́̈̏̾̕͜ ̴̝̝̬̱̲͎͈̍S̵̨̯͑́e̴̪͈͖͓̜̹̓d̵̛̖̮̘͌͒͒̈́̂̓̑̈̈́̐ ̵̡͙͕̖͋̂̑̏͆͆̊̾̊̃ḥ̷̨̫̱̥̯͉̋͐̅̈́̈́͐́͘͜ǫ̴̛̖̪̫͈̦̞̼̱̟͗͊́̈́͐̈́̃̄͘͝ć̶̢̧̭̳͓͔̠̯̟̓͆̉͐̅͂͂̕̕ ̵͕̬̔̓n̴̢̰͖̜̪͚͔̋̀͋̃͗̿̍̄ȯ̵̧͕̯̳͔̆͌̌͂͝n̷̗̲̑̌͛̊́̏͝ ̶͚̯̥̠̪̇̿̒̎̐͊̓́̃̔̚s̸̡͎͎̤͓̖͇͆̍̎̄͗̽̌͋ͅi̵̢̩̪̱̬̤̔͒g̴̢̲̯̩̠̰̜̪͍̏́̈́̆͛̐͑̆͜͜͠͠n̵̡̬͉͈͓̦̥͕̯̎͆̓i̵̪̪̘͕͇̺͓̟̠̋̚f̸̛̘͇̝̖̠̏̿͐̾̿͑̀̇͘ͅi̷̧̨̛̭͇̥̥͉͖̬̳̲̔̎c̷̣̓̍̔à̷̧̫̰̤̘̣͎͇̳̘̍ţ̶̥̤̙͉̠͉̺͎̤̰͠ ̴͚͚͉̝̠̂͑̈́͒̌̊̾̔͘͝n̵͔͇̖̊͌̽͆́̎̔ư̵̢̭̙̎̌̋̾̒̾̔̐̒l̷̰̣͇̄͌͂̊̃͐̎̚͝ļ̴̫͕͈͎̲̖̭̏͒̓̈́̌̄̈́̽̏̈́͠ͅa̵̢̲̝̬̥͊̎͛̀̽̈m̶̢̞͕̖̬͔͖͛̀̎͋͑̔͠͝ ̸̢̫͓̰͔͖̞̱͉̰̪̆̾ë̶̛͈̠̒͊̾̔͂ͅs̷̟͔̺̘̙̙̙̩̺͖̯͐̑s̴͇̰͚͉̯͚͎̔̈́̅ẻ̵̪̻̳͓̮͖́͗́̂̐̕ͅ ̴̼̼̂͑c̷̡̡̮̦̖͎͈̽a̶̢̗̹͈̫̰͌̀̓̕͠u̶͉̼͎̝͈͒̑̑̐̎̎̓̓̑̋͘͜͜ş̴̛̱̫̈́̏͑̆͛͗͊̅̕a̵̢̙̜͔̩͓͉̜̜͝m̷͓͙̝̻̣̞̣͉̓̉̇͜ ̵͇͎̪̳͋̾c̷̝̽̓͋̅̄̊͆̉͠ų̴̧̛̝ŕ̴̮͑͊͑̇̌͌́͠ ̶̨̨̗̉͐̓͒̏͝͠͝͝i̵̡͍̓̑̇̎͘͘̕͘͜͝b̸̡̘͍͇̖͔͎̞̬̃͒̀̋̑͋̒̓ͅi̶͈̩̭͖͎͈̜͑͊̍͊̎͜ ̶͈̞̙̫̥̰̬̼̲̰̙͛͐́͒͂̚s̸̮͇̔̔i̶̛̲̲͌̌̈́̐̓̈̕̚͝ṭ̴̨̛̲͒̈́͌̏͊͌̕͜.̴̧̛̺͎͙̣̜͓͗͊͋̈͆̀]

- - -

– - - - -

    -- - 

[A FEW MINUTES BEFORE.]

“And you're saying this place acted weird?”

“YES, YES!!! Like- like in your book, Sir Mage!”

A low huff escaped the Dark Mage watching the crowd of confused people that formed and watched due to the accidents.

Apparently, the entire ground started to shake at some point and he did want to investigate the shut off area…

That didn't mean he could talk to old friends though.

For he saw a yellow man panicking, looking around frantically and trying to call someone on his crystal ball, getting comforted by the green guard.

Who can't greet such a sight?

“Ah, Wiz! You're here too?”

Just as frantically as he was looking at the glass ball, the same stare was given to the unfortunate shadow creature that decided to greet him.

As he ignored his students' surprised chats, storming over to the Mage and gripping his cloak quite harshly!

Hm. Now that he can guess from the panic and the usual companions,

“Ah, Mage- Have you seen Nabiu and Karoto-? We've been searching for them EVERYWHERE-”

“It's been an hour exactly, actually.”

Brocco interrupted with a sigh, which caused the other to shake his body only more.

“AND THEY HAVEN'T RESPONDED TO ANY OF MY GREETING CALLS! MY DEAR GIRL WOULD NEVER DO THAT!”

The Mage gave a silent huff, but connected the sudden God Activity that seemed to be going on with the disappearance of the two.

After all, everything had a reason.

As useless and unassuming as it may seem, breaking every rule for its own gain.

“Wiz, Wiz…it'll be fine. If anyone knows their way out of danger, it's these two!”

Shrugging it off was as easy as breathing, especially since his weird little book of spells had been with him, its title still blurred and giving him a headache from time to time.

If that wasn't gone, they couldn't be in that much danger.

So, calmness was priority, which meant-”

“They'll just appear at the most random moment possible, just you watch-”

BANG.

The Mage.

Nearly flinched out of his skin as all eyes averted to the entrance of the blocked off area.

“aaaaaaAAAAAAAAAAA-”

“OHDEARIMSORRYAAAAAAAAAAA-”

The Mage still didn't expect to be correct today as a cymbal flung right by him and into the nearest floor, flinging both of the idiots onto the floor.

Any and all dust had been settled.

Which meant they had just busted out of danger.

Good!

He was tired of narrating.

Nabiu audibly groaned at the pain that went through her forehead, laying indirectly on her face.

Owowowow, they were alive but still ouchie.

“Urrrghhghg….That method sucksssssss-”

“Youuu suggessstedddd itttt thoughhh-”

“Shattt app-”

Nabiu could nearly ignore all this mess and snicker along, propping herself up as all those steps came closer and closer-

“MY CHILDREN-!!”

“YO, NABIU! YOU'RE NOT DEAD!”

“Tate. Dude.”

“I can be happy for them.”

There was inner appreciation of being helped up and checked over, hearing giggling classmates and a groaning Karoto from this whole mess.

And a chuckling Mage.

“So, you did return! Good, Good…no one harmed? Everyone alright?”

Physically? Yeah!

Mentally?

UHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH-

“Yep! We saw a really cool alternate dimension with crystals in the hole!”

Nabiu decided to answer instead, jumping up with no scars whatsoever and nodding excitingly, pointing to the hole of despair and gloom.

“The hole of death and betrayal, apparently…”

Karoto muttered and she wouldn't want to agree.

The Mage perked up in interest, approaching the two with that same calculating stare he had for everything.

“Oh? Why is that so?”

Both stared at one another for a moment.

Holding a conversation and an inner monologue at the same time, getting all the time they need as a worried and/or curious crowd formed.

They could tell of the blueberry! But it also kinda tried to kill them. And it might not actually be friendly.

But it needed to be saved! What if it needed all the help it can get and solve just like Karoto?

Rumble.

“NO, NOT THE TREMORS AGAIN!”

“Please, Owner, calm it. This is nothing magic and research can't fix-”

She isn't sure about that, but she just kept staring at Karoto with puppy eyes, getting only firm headphones in response.

She couldn't understand it all.

She wanted to be friends!

Nabiu didn't believe that it was this evil-! That it truly was just a husk of someone else!

That's evil, that's cruel-

THAT'S JUST-

C R. A A A A A. C C K.

B A N G ! ! !

Without anyone's permission.

A being broke through the ground near the taped away area. Just behind them.

Everyone turned. Everyone had a reason.

Nabiu.

Stared at the thing.

That didn't look like the blueberry anymore, calculating as a way for her mind to cope with what she just saw.

Describing it. Analysing it.

At such a small age-

It was a being of full crystal shards, light blue legs utterly thin like a ballerina, returning its grace with the cost of its arms being shattered.

Only fingers were graced with sharp, crystal fingers, turning from a soft blue to a harsh cyan.

It had a short, ripped over piece of its cloak around its neck and left shoulder - from its view - and it's head?

Oh

The head

It had a hole in it, the circle that went around it completely shattered and floating about.

Which such grace, which such brokeness-

You still wouldn't ignore the crystal lurged right through its chest.

With precision, it landed on one leg on the floor, keeping the whole room in sudden silence.

It didn't gave eyes.

Not anymore.

But it's eyes

Were

On

“NABIU!”

Nabiu ran the moment it bolted for a statue of crystals and broke it with not a single hit of hesitation, shattering it with a single hand.

She didn't hear her classmates or the people or the Mage or the others or whatever her

Gr

Grandpa

Grandpa?

She had no Grandpa

Whatever her old friend became, running at the horrid noise of walls being cracked due to the heavy impact, floors being shattered due to the utter grace.

She returned that grace by never harming any of the artifacts.

Instead, she threw bricks at the creature, which did absolutely nothing.

No words or screams got out of her mouth.

Only labored breathing as she ran from the thing, wondering if it was out for blood or wanted to give a last goodbye to her.

And didn't know

How to ever communicate it with the grace it had for its needle.

She needed a plan, something to spare this thing of its eternal suffering, one she could in this very moment feel in her heart 

As she hid behind a statue, watching it ran by, almost dancing around beautiful in confusion-

She didn't know if it was even tortured.

Was it ever aware?

Had it truly been trapped for years?

The blockage hadn't been there for years. It was only recently discovered.

Static filled her ears.

…

There was

Always a weak point in boss monsters.

A small, fragile thing that just bled ‘hit me there! Rip that out!’

…..

Nabiu had an idea that she wasn't sure anyone else would approve of.

But she could always bring herself out for whatever hole she made.

Literally and metaphorically.

A deep breath was taken, grabbing her rod as the blueberry stepped around, trying to find the little fruit.

Steadily, Nabiu stepped out with her heart in her throat, hearing the others approaching as well, yelling, hoping to attack.

She had an idea.

Quite stupid, but who can blame a child?

Another deep breath-

“IMMM OVEEER HEREEEEEEEE-”

…Swift turn. Readjustment of thin legs. Checking again with some sort of knowledge. Checking again for safety…..

And then it ran once again.

Completely ignoring any of her name callings, she took a sharp turn through the way she just went, making sure the husk had a close eye on her.

Or hole.

HOWEVER IT MAY WORK-

Guilt tightened in her throat again, but as she ran, speeding up and never looking back, she reassured herself in a way.

This is alright.

The creature might find peace once more, hopefully will forgive her for this action.

Running and running and running, picking up the pace, jumping forwards towards the entrance again, hearing the STOMPS BEHIND HER-

A N D-

Both jumped.

Right back into the open crack in the hole, a giant dirt one showing off as they fell and fell, the size difference immaculate.

There was a sense of peace there, as Nabiu let it fall closer to her, just till she could stand against the chest.

It.

Let her.

It didn't fight, staring down with the same kind of calmness, as if it had accepted it all at this very moment.

That it was not who it was supposed to be.

That it will never be who it wants to be.

And maybe.

Maybe, in this very moment as she pulled out her rod, pressed it against the crystal in the chest and forgot all about the things both of them did wrong.

Both could

Forgive themselves once more, for this final time for one of them.

CRICK.

In the last moments.

Nabiu saw another blueberry.

Everything else pitchblack, it looked back without emotions, eyes pin pricked.

Already

Gone

Perhaps for years already

And before her mind could panic from the sight, register what had happened as the crystal was pulled out and smashed against the wall 

There was a last smile that grew on its face.

Grabbing her hand

And letting go as it fell farther and she flew higher

For it was now nothing once and for all.

/ \ / \ / \

\ / \ / \ /

    / \ / \

    \ / \ /

Two left

Nabiu let out a gasp as she was thrown back out of the hole at full speed.

And she

Couldn't b r e a t h e-

“NABIU! DEAR NANTES, YOUR ALIVE-”

There was a sob from the familiar vegetable, cupping her face and pulling her so so so close.

She was sobbing as well and she almost didn't know why, even as blood stained her clothes from the ordeal.

No

No the blood wasn't hers

And the turmoil of such a thing grew in her, plastering all over her chest, turning her more red as she hugged Karoto close.

“I-im- s-...sorry-”

“DON’T- DON'T APOLOGIZE!”

She was engulfed by warmth and the sound of multiple steps, small arms surrounding her as well.

The interns.

She sobbed regardless of what the loss was. Even her mind didn't register a thing, even if she had to get it explained.

She was a child and shouldn't have to go through this.

Shouldn't have to spare a person.

….But the people that she loved were there and despite the late response, a pair of big arms that she recognized as Wizzro were there too.

Perhaps, he knew something that she…didn't?

….That didn't matter now.

She didn't need to think about this right now.

She can talk, she can walk, she can be comforted.

And.

It will be okay.

It's

It's okay

Nothing of value was

“Sweetheart- Sweetheart, please listen-”

“ARE YOU INSANE-?!”

Sobbing. Sobbing everywhere for the occasion of the blueberry family.

“H-How…can you say that- HOW COULD I-I Just- How can i just remember-”

Deep breaths.

Shuddering sobs as a glass shattered on the ground, a picture frame that had long been buried.

And the father engulfed the mother.

“My father is….he..he..…can't be….”

For there was someone lost.

Someone she couldn't have remembered before.

Wasn't allowed too.

Nobody was allowed to before he

“Wizzro.”

Brocco whispered for a longer time as he sat with his beloved, putting a hand on his knee.

A response hadn't been given. Just staring to have no particular space.

Today, he had learned something that he knew before, but forgot.

And Wizzro shuddered at the pure memories that flooded back.

“I. I knew him. I knew-”

“Fern, I have literally gained parts of 3 years of missing memories back.”

“Oh, you did? You think I DIDN’T?”

A laugh escaped the lime bat as the broccoli queen paced around, halfly restraining tears, half pure anger.

“He was…such an asshole, but- but- BUT YOU KNOW???”

“Oh, no. I get why YOU'RE feeling like this. It's just…weird that I got lost memories back.”

Pacing, pacing, remembering, letting the amnesiac broccoli ponder.

“...He had a wife. She's literally still alive.”

“Aware of that now.”

….

What could one say about all this?

About the reports.

About the sudden reveal that shocked a hundred people to their core?

“WHERE IS ITWHERETHEHELL-”

The Mage threw several books out of boxes in the dark castles attic, searching, searchingy-

Trying to find answers.

TRYING TO FIND ANYTHING OF THE MEMORIES HE HAD LONG LOST BEFORE-

Oh God.

Ohgodohfuckwhydidthesememoriesfeelsovile-

Wait

The Mage. Picked out a photo.

And nearly let it fall from numbness.

At the

Blueberry

Standing right in the photo

{CRIME SCENE REPORT}

[See Crime scene sketch for better overview.]

I report of the body that was found on ███████ ██ ████ at the Crystal museum, buried in the cylinder porcelain room that had previously been blocked for visitors due to repairs and check-ups.

An incident had happened on that day that proved to be worth researching, having found a corpse 8 feet under the porcelain floor.

The reason it was determined to keep digging was because that more and more meat shards have been found the further they have dug.

Before the body report, it is important to note that no weapon, no footprints, no handprints or any burying weapon have been found anywhere in the building, including traces of recent murders, missing people or others that fit the case.

The body is in a strange state, seeming to decay in different periods of time in different parts of the body.

The torso and limbs are mostly completely fine, merely scratched, bloodied or covered in dirt due to the situation.

The important part is the head and face itself. [See Crime sketch]

The Face has a hole straight in the middle, completely unrecognisable and unsalvageable if we didn't have photos.

It leaks and rots in certain places, yet seems strangely fresh despite the rest of the body seeming to have decayed for near months now.

The only part half-clear is the eye, half cut off and leaking its eye-whites away.

It is unknown what the weapon was. Currently, theories include hard blunt force trauma or metal pipes, but most don't seem to make a cut.

Another theory is that the fruit was punched extremely hard, so that it goes straight through the head. 

This is an occurrence that can happen more easily with fruit due to their soft skin and flesh.

[This concludes the corpse report.)]

The person that was found was a 43 year old blueberry, stated to have been male by the daughter {Vacci Mushino} which seemed to have just recently remembered him.

[Note: In a strange case this has happened to multiple people÷, hence we were able to gather much more information.]

The blueberry was a warrior of the royal ranks, serving his work for 18 years and 7 months and had gone missing around 23 years ago, leaving no memory or trace.

No body or message had been brought around about him going missing, nor had there been files about any of his missions or reports until now.

He was married to his wife [STAYING ANONYMOUS] and has one child, which was Vacci Mushino.

It is also worth mentioning that Nabiu Mushino is the grandchild, but we could barely get any info from her, as she had been born much later from the incident.

While we can't bring too many ends to the case, there is one important thing.

With all this information, we have gathered the name of the dead blueberry.

Buru Mushino