Adventures of young Ira Smith

by Imintoidiotcowboys

Summary:

Octavius was supposed to look after Ira while his three older brothers were working, what he didn't knew was the boy was sneakier than a fox.

Now he has to find Ira, and hope that the young boy hasn't gone outside.

How will the Smith brothers react to this? How will Octavius handle all this stress? And will Ira go back to his family?

Let's find out, shall we?

Notes:

Hello!!! I wanted to say that this fic was unplanned 💀

I wanted to update my other fic, an unhealthy obsession, but it seems like my motivation was drawn here🤡

I hope you enjoy!

Chapter 1: Little misfortune

Jedediah dropped Ira off at Octavius’ diorama, the cowboy said that he was going to work with Austin and Peter and a bunch of other cowboys on the railway and they said it'll take them all night to get even more progress done.

“You sure you can take care of pup? He can sometimes be a real trouble maker and--” before Jedediah could finish, Octavius puts a hand in front of him to make Jed pause “Jedediah, i can handle this. You take care of work with your brothers and I'll take care of Ira here”

Octavius rests a hand on the small brown stetson hat that Ira was wearing, the boy was crossing his arms against his chest, pouting, he doesn't want to be left alone with Octavius even though the Roman would never do anything to hurt the young lad.

Jed exhales sharply, he gets down on one knee to look at Ira face to face “Ira, don't cause yer big brother Oct any trouble alright?” the young boy doesn't turn to his older brother, still pouting.

Jed aches up an eyebrow and Ira let's go of his stubborn facade and rushes to hug Jed tightly, sobbing quietly as well “I don't wanna stay with ‘im...” He sobs, burying his face into Jed's shirt even more, Jedediah pats his little Brother's back, an attempt to calm the little five-year-old down.

“But the three of us ain't available to look after ya, little man” Jedediah picks him up and walks to Octavius who was a spectator “I can just get Polly and Molly to look after ‘im Tavi”

“No... That won't be necessary Jed, I'll take care of him, i promise” Jedediah pauses for a while, before whispering something to Ira, the young lad wipes away his tears and nods to whatever Jedediah had told him. This certainly sparks Octavius’ curiosity.

Ira opened his arms, wanting to be held by Octavius, the Roman complied with the wish and takes the red head from Jed's arms and carries the young boy in his arms.

Jedediah gives a merry smile “Alright, I'm gonna go now, Ira, don't cause too much trouble” the ginger furrowed his eyebrows and pouted once more before Jedediah continued “And good luck Tavi, it ain't easy to look after children” he leans closer and kisses the emperor lightly on the cheek.

Octavius reddens, especially since they're showing all this display of affection out in public “Bye Ira, Octy” the cowboy kisses Ira on the forehead before leaving, Octavius and Ira only wave goodbye and when Jedediah was gone from their line of sight, they turn to one another.

“I hope Rome is as fun as bubba says” Ira huffs his cheeks, Octavius only smiles and sighs, not really minding what the child said “Is there anything you want to do Ira?”

Octavius was never really the type to hang around with children much, but sometimes he'd spend some time with them on rare occasions.

Ira just buries himself onto Octavius’ chest, before a muffled “dessert” was heard. Octavius chuckles lightly and walks towards his temple, heading for the kitchen with a five-year-old in his arms being carried.

“We have a variety of sweets here, what do you wish for?” Ira looks him in the face and thinks, a few moments later, he finally knows what he wants “Can i have flapjacks?”

Octavius pauses for a moment, before asking in a low tone “What are flapjacks?” Ira gasps, posing like a shock painting Octavius and Jedediah once saw “ You've never heard of ‘em before? They're the best thing in the whole wide world!” he exaggerates.

Octavius just looks at him, dumbfounded it seemed, what were these flapjacks those Westerners love so much? He knows that they don't have any of those in the kitchen, so he'll have to ask the young boy if there's anything else he'd wish for.

“We don't really have any of those.... Flapjacks you speak of... ” Ira's face was disappointed, it made Octavius feel a bit anxious “--But! I'll see if i can get Larry to bring them next time!” Ira's face lit up with happiness, and that only made Octavius smile.

“I guess it's alright if you ain't have flapjacks, ma said not to wish for somethin’ that's not on the table” Ira thinks for a little while, “Can we go see what's in the kitchen?” Octavius nods and he walks to his temple whilst holding Ira.

–––––

They enter the temple, greeting a few guards they pass by, some cooing at Ira and his chubby cute cheeks. Who wouldn't coo at Ira? He was a cute and energetic boy, he's sometimes like a mixture of all his brothers.

From Austin, who always leads his younger brothers whenever they need it, to Jed's curious nature and urge explore at times, and to Peter's rebelliousness, there's Ira who sometimes mimicks them or it's just in him to be like that.

“Are we there yet? It'll take us all night to get there! Let's go across lots” Ira said, throwing his arms up in the air, Octavius just smiled and sighed ‘Impatient just like Jedediah’ he thought to himself.

“How about this, you can walk on your own IF you hold my hand” Ira nods and Octavius puts him down on his feet, the young boy looks around, his mouth wide open, obviously taking in the mesmerizing temple him and Octavius were walking through.

“This place is airish, i guess” he takes Octavius' hand, not wanting to get lost right now, and they keep walking.

While on their way to the kitchen, Ira asks Octavius a couple of questions.

“How'd you meet Tex?”

“We woke up one night and chose violence, i do not recommend”

“Why do Romans wear skirts?”

“It isn't a skirt, it's a pteruges, it's a strip-like defense for the upper limbs of our armours”

“Do you guys always train? Like, every night or something?”

“Yes, i train them every night. I even join them”

––––––

They finally reach the kitchen, a couple of women had greeted them, some of the older ones cooed Ira and sat him in a chair.

“Is there anything we can do for you, emperor?” one of the women, Flora, ask Octavius.

“We want to know if there are any desserts you have made tonight” another young woman, Donna, smiles brightly “Good thing we decided to make bread rolls!” she sets down a basket full of bread, shaped like rosettes.

Ira's blue eyes widened “Just eat dear, we have a lot of these for everyone” Clara, another woman, had told him with a big and bright smile.

“Thank you for the food m'ladies!” the red head grabbed a piece of bread and took a large bite, Octavius was observing the boy, of course, Ira knew the feeling of being watched so he turned to Octavius and split his bread into two parts and gave the other piece–wich was not bitten– to Octavius.

“Thank you Ira” he gratefully accepted the piece of bread and took a bite “Even if it's just a snack, this is still a tightener!” he exclaimed before shoving another piece of bread in his mouth.

“Ira, slow down, you might upset your stomach” the general says, giving a hearty chuckle.

 

–––––
“Now Ira, what do we say to the nice women?”

The young lad took off his brown hat and held it in his small hands “Thank you for havin’ me, and those bread rolls y'all made were very tasty!” he smiles.

The women just smile at him, some of the older ones only pinched his cheek and cooed.

Octavius and Ira left the temple, the boy said he wanted to explore Rome a bit and Octavius obliged to his request.

They walked through the busy streets, holding one another's hand, Octavius was giving a secure but gentle grip on the young man's hand, fearing of the possibility of Ira getting lost in this crowd.

“Are you enjoying yourself Ira?” the armoured one asked, eyes looking for Ira.

Wait.

Where's Ira?!

Chapter 2: A little help?

Notes:

Haha, look out for a few call backs from my old fanfics🧍🏻♀️

Hope you like it! <33

Octavius was hyperventilating, he looked around to see if there was a small red head child running off, but due to the large crowd he wasn't able to look properly.

“Is there anything wrong imperator?” Faunus, one of his young and loyal men asked as he walked closer to him.

“Faunus! Have you seen Ira? Jedediah's younger brother?!” the older man asked, his voice shaking “Imperator, please calm down. I'll go look for him and tell everyone else” the young man said, assuring Octavius. The brunette's breathing slowed down, seeming to have calmed himself “Thank you” he said.

––––
Jedediah was working on the railroad with his brothers, some nights they didn't have any time to spend with each other, Jedediah was either with Octavius and Ira, or just giving out orders, Austin would always be in their tent, reading his fancy books or trying to paint, Peter would be out with his friends, getting into trouble.

It's nice to spend time with his brothers even if they had to work.

“Then Resty said that we can't ride ostriches, but guess what, we managed to do so!” Peter said, having a very smug smile on his face as he retold the story of how him and his friend Resty managed to have an ostrich race– wich resulted to Larry having to put them in a little time out box that looked like a little prison and Peter being scolded by his two older brothers.

“Yeah, an’ then you had a race, crashed into the king's place, then we had to scold ya even though you're already twenty-one” Austin said sarcastically, Peter just frowned when he saw Austin's deadpan expression.

Meanwhile, Jedediah was trying to contain his laughter because he knows both of them will have a little fuss over this story.

“You three seem like very good brothers” a voice said that caught the Smith brother's attention, they all collectively turn and see– Goyo and Vicente? What were they doing here?

“Good evening G-Goyo, Vicente” Peter said, blush creeping up to his cheeks. Basically, he had a crush on the two Filipinos and acted like a schoolboy whenever they're near. Austin and Jed just found it amusing. “What brings a couple of belvideres here?” Austin asked, Vicente raised an eyebrow, seeming confused on wether it's a compliment or an insult. He was gonna shoot back with an insult in Tagalog but Goyo stopped him.

“Vicente, papuri iyan, wag ka mag alala”

The three brothers, confused with what Goyo said, just looked at the pair of men. Goyo turned back to them and smiled “We decided to look around more, handling the diorama was getting a bit too much--”

“Goyo wanted to fool around and see if there were any men or women who were up to it” Vicente deadpanned, pointing to Goyo.

Austin smiles smugly and pat Peter on the back “Well, it ain't our business who you fool around with, but I'm sure as hell ain't lettin’ my lil brothers do that” he smiled as he put a protective arm around Peter, while just pointing his thumb to Jedediah.

“Of course not! I consider the Smith brothers as friends, I'd never”

“You guys are working on the railway, we probably should go” Vicente said, not wanting to disturb the work their friends were supposed to be doing “Oh, let's just go to the saloon and get a few drinks first”

“Ayoko nga, mamaya may lumandi nanaman sa akin” Goyo just grabbed Vicente by the shoulder and dragged him to the saloon “Have a good night, the three of you! We'll just be here drinking!” the two best friends head towards to saloon.

Austin sighs exaggeratedly “I dunno what you find attractive ‘bout them” Peter opened his mouth, trying to imitate the shocked painting “Alright, that's enough, let's get back to work” Jedediah said, making his two brothers flich.

“Right captain” both of them said, they go back to their spots and start to work again, sharing stories and laughs while doing so.

–––––

They haven't found Ira yet, his men said that they have checked everywhere, every nook and cranny in the diorama but no red head cowboy.

Octavius was sure he could already hear Jedediah scolding him, and if he weren't, Octavius would scold himself internally.

“Florence! Are you sure he wasn't in the kitchen again?” Octavius asked the young soldier Florence, he and some other guards were checking the temple to see if Ira had went back in, the young man shakes his head “Imperator, we checked everywhere in the temple, even the women said that they haven't seen him”

The emperor already knows he's dead to the Smith brothers when they hear about this.

“Check everywhere! Rome, West, oh gehenna, even the Tirad Pass if you have to! Just please find him! I'll go to Larry and ask him for help” he ties a rope to a pin and slid down and landed on the ground.

Hopefully the night guard can help him find the little bean.

––––
Larry was having a little chat with Ahkmenrah at the front desk, luckily Octavius could reach them, he stood near the computer and yelled “My lieges! Can you please help me in something?”

Ahkmenrah and Larry stopped their little talk and turned towards Octavius “Good evening Octavius, aren't you supposed to be babysitting Ira for Jed?” Ahk asked, Larry was aching an eyebrow, suspicion already visible in his face.

“Oct... What happened man?” the night guard asked, Octavius was filled with guilt because of this “I... I lost him!” he exclaimed, both men's eyes widened, shock and panic visibly seen.

“You... What?! You do know what his older brothers will say, right?!”

“I know! That's why i need your help in searching him! I won't be able to look everywhere in the museum with how little i am!”

Ahkmenrah placed a hand onto Larry's shoulder “Da--- i-- i mean... Larry, we have to look for him, the child is tinier than an adult miniature and what if he winds up outside?”

Outside.

Octavius was more worried right now, the possibility of Ira going outside and staying out for too long... It was too much, imagine how that might affect the Smiths.

“Your'e right, Ahk go tell everyone else that we'll be looking for Ira and to mind their steps. Octavius, you come with me man, we have to tell his brothers”

Octavius was picked up and placed in Larry's breast pocket, not proclaiming any protests whatsoever, this is his mistake, he has to own up to it.

––––
The three brothers were having a rest, sipping cups of coffee while eating some pieces of bread, when suddenly.

“Hey! Can the Smith brothers come here? I have to talk to you” Larry had said, his eyes scanning for the three of them in the West.

“Hell... We might be in trouble for some reason” Jed murmured, he remembers times when he was a child, his mother or father would sometimes tell him that they'll be having a talk and later the talk turned into a good ol' whooping in the behind.

The three brothers cringed at the memory of their mother spanking them, they just walk closer to Larry, who looked panicked and distressed.

“What's up gigantor?” Jedediah had asked, his voice quivering slightly at the possibility of Larry somehow finding out about his mischievous plans.

“Yeah, i need all three of you to come with me” he offers his hand and the three of them hop onto it, Larry places Peter and Austin into his other breast pocket, wow, two gingers in one pocket.

The night guard just places Jed into the other pocket, where he finds Octavius, looking panicked and worried “Tavi! Whatchu doin’ here?” the Roman quivers.

“Carissime, please know that i love you with all my heart and i would never do anything to hurt you or your brothers”

 

After a few moments, a very loud what was heard in Larry's breast pocket.

Chapter 3: Where little Ira went off to

Notes:

Some parts may not bee believable, please bare with me 🤦♀️🤧

I recommend listening to Dear Theodosia, idk why but it just sits right with me when i was writing this chapter and i was playing that song

I'm in my Hamilton phase, pls don't judge me

Ira was walking with Octavius in the busy streets of Rome, Octavius’ holding his tiny hand with a protective but tender hold, not wanting the little five-year-old getting lost.

Ira was looking around, though he wasn't able to get a good look of the buildings due to the crowd that was almost gonna squish him when walking by.

Suddenly, he hears something, an odd but cool sounding noise in the air.

It may not have been noticable because of the loud talking of the crowd but there he saw a little bee buzzing and flying in the air, far away from the civilians of Rome.

This seemed to have put Ira's attention to the bee instead of holding onto Octavius. Once the Roman had let the hand go for a quick moment, Ira slid away his hand from the grasp quicker than a fox and followed the bee all while looking up.

He bumped into a few Romans but they didn't mind much, the ginger followed the bee, until the little insect took notice of young Ira and flapped it's wings faster “Uh oh!” he said, he fastened his pace to try and keep up with the little yellow bee.

He runs as fast as he can, trying to keep up with it, the bee led him to the edge of the diorama where there wasn't that many miniatures.

He didn't care where he was going, he just wanted to follow that little bee and experience riding one. “Get back here! I wanna ride a bee!”

He took another step and suddenly, he fell off the diorama.

“AAAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!!”

Ira's life flashed before his eyes, even if he was only at the museum for a few moths.

He should be splattered on the ground, but somehow he could feel himself hovering like he had miraculously grown wings, but to his disappointment– he didn't see any wings on his back but a bee gripping him by the back.

His mouth widened in surprise “Woah, cool!” he giggled. The bee flew for a few good minutes before setting him down on a mountain like place, the mountain had small wooden houses, a few people walking by–some of the women wearing a long gown and a blouse, the men only wearing loose pants and a shirt.

There were also some kids playing near him that had also caught his attention.

–––––
Now here he was, at the Tirad Pass. He isn't that  familiar with the diorama but Jed said that this was being led by him and Octavius’ friend Goyo–a rather funny and weird name if you'd ask him.

He was only looking around when a woman came up to him with a boy who looked a few years older than Ira “Magandang gabi, are you... Lost?” she asked, seeming a bit nervous with the way she spoke.

“Oh, no ma'am! I'm only here to explore!” he said, smiling brightly and cheerfully, not knowing the fact that he WAS actually lost.

The woman looked him up and down “This... Not a place for--uh” she pointed at him with her lips, Ira, the little oblivious tangerine boy that he is, didn't get the gesture and only seemed to take insult of that.

“Well, there ain't no need to be mean! Just lookin’ around” he exclaimed, puffing his cheeks in frustration, the little boy said something to his sister in his native language and after a few moments he took a step closer to Ira.

“Evening, what my ate meant was that you shouldn't be here without someone else” Ira was bewildered with how the young boy could speak english so fluently.

“Oh... Well I'm sorry if i hurt your feelings! I'm here with--” he looks around and sees the little bee flutter down to his side, startling the young boy and his sister “--- My pet-- Tubee! Yeah, Tubee Smith” the sister and her little brother look at one another.

“Well, you need to be with an adult, not a pet” the boy said, he took Ira's hand and held it, roughly, the Filipino dragged Ira after saying something to his sister.

“Ow, be careful” the boy looked back at Ira, an eyebrow ached up. The other boy held his hand more gently, dragging him once more.

“What's yer name?”
“Isanagi, and yours?”
“My name's Ira, can i call you Isa?”
“Whatever suits your taste, cowboy”

“How old are you?”
“I'm seven, you?”
“I'm five”

––––
The four miniatures stand at the bench, Larry only there to spectate on them.

“What do you mean you lost Ira?! Wasn't he just with ya?!” Peter shouts at Octavius, wich makes the Roman tremble slightly. Austin looks at Octavius, only a calm expression on his face, but deep inside, he was scared and worried for his youngest brother “How the hell--”

“Peter! Watch yer language” Austin scolds his little brother, before turning to Octavius again as he crossed his arms.

Jedediah looked scared, who wouldn't be? You lost your little brother, what were you supposed to feel? Happy?

“Octavius, how'd this happen?” Jed asks, trying to look as calm and collected like Austin, but his face and voice was giving it all away “H- how'd Ira get lost..?” his voice was starting to quiver now– he looks like he's about to cry, and it broke Octavius’ heart to see the man he loves cry because of his mistake.

Octavius knew Jedediah and Ira were very close, Jedediah is a great brother towards the little tangerine, always trying to make time for him, treating him with respect and trust, the Roman felt even more guilty now that he thought of this.

“Well?”

Octavius hesitates, but he needs to do this “I--- me and Ira were walking through Rome, but when i looked--- he was already gone...” the armoured one looked down, not wanting to see the three of their faces right now. 

After a few moments, he could hear sobbing, his head shot up and saw Jedediah with tears flowing down his face. He has never seen the cowman cry before, Jedediah never lets people see him so vulnerable before, until now.

“Mi vida...” he reaches out for the blonde but he stops himself, remembering the fact that he caused all of this. 

“I'm sorry, i shouldn't had agreed to babysit him”

Jedediah walks up to him and puts his arms around Octavius, the Roman was stunned, but he knew that Jed needed comfort right now.

“Are you alright with me hugging you back?” 

Jed nods and Octavius hugs him back, trying to give warmth and comfort to his lover. “Jed, can i join?” Austin asks, Jedediah only nods as he sniffles into Octavius’ arms. Austin hugs his younger brother. Peter hesitates, before asking his older brother if it were alright for him to join the hug as well.

Jedediah only pulls him close and hugs him tightly, Octavius tries to pull himself back-- knowing that Jed was supposed to be hugging his brothers and not him but Jed just tightens his grasp on him “I think Jed needs you as well Octavius” Austin said, still having a calm expression on his face. Octavius just complies.

Larry just spectates for a while, he knows that they need a bit of time to take in all this information. And suddenly missing a loved one is difficult for everyone, the least he can do is to let them hug for a while.

–––––

“Where are we?” Ira asks Isa, they were in one of the wooden houses, but this time it's furnished and it looked fancy, like Austin's part of the tent.

“I'll just tell general Goyo that you're here” Isa said, his face not showing any other expression other than tiredness– what is this kid doing that he was so tired?

Ira was a bit confused, why should the general know he's here? Was he gonna get arrested for visiting the diorama without their general's permission?!

Ira looks at Isa, the thought of going to jail scared him since he heard stories from Peter that people sometimes fight in the slammer, he doesn't wanna get hurt or go behind bars!

“No! Don't tell ‘em!” he protested, he ran out the door, he heard Isa shouting at him to come back but no, he doesn't wanna get into trouble.

“Tubee! Lemme ride you again, please!” the bee flutters down to his side, letting him sit on it's back, the bee buzzes and slowly flutters it's wings.

“I hope i don't fall again” Ira tightens his hold onto the bee, trying not to hurt it as well Where we goin’? he asks himself, he takes in the view from up in the air, the hall of miniatures looked so small but cool from up  his perspective.

“Jed and Octy will never believe this! Haha, this is so cool Tubee!” he exclaims.

–––––

Jedediah and Octavius are in Larry breast pocket once more, Austin and Peter were with in Attila's hat. They had agreed to split up into teams of three and look for Ira, Teddy and Wea went searching as well, Ahkmenrah was searching with Nicky.

“Where'd you think he went off to?” Jedediah asks Larry, the night guard thinks for a while “Eh... Since he's your little brother, i guess he went to different rooms and such” the night guard picks up his pace.

Jedediah is being filled up with worry, he doesn't want his little brother to be harmed or anything!

“Maybe we should check the hall of African mammals” Octavius suggested to Larry, the other man nods.

Jedediah looks at Octavius, his eyes a bit puffy from crying a little bit, but it was alright.

Octavius looks at him as well, his facial expression mixed with worry and guilt. Jedediah reaches for the Roman's hand, interlocking their fingers “I'm still a bit mad, but you couldn't help it. Ira's always been a curious lad” he chuckles a bit.

Octavius doesn't say anything, he knows that a sorry will never fix this even if he would say that a million times to the Smith brothers.

Jedediah kisses the back of Octavius’ hand “I still love ya Tavi, I'm just feelin’ lots of things right now”

“I understand Querida. I love you, and we'll find Ira, I can't promise you that though but we'll try our best” a smile placed upon Octavius’ face.

–––––

“Do you think he went outside?” Nicky asks Ahkmenrah, they were searching by the main entrance, they somehow got the other exhibits looking for the small boy as well, some minding their own steps and searching in the most smallest and places Ira could possibly get into.

“No no, he couldn't have went out” Ahkmenrah replies, flapping his hand up and down “But what if he did?” Nicky asked once more, Ahkmenrah just thinks about for a little.

Ira was very tiny, he was practically the size of a fly and he had tiny little feet, it'd be impossible for him to go to the main entrance from the Roman diorama, but it wouldn't hurt to check, right?

“Alright, Nicky, get your coat and a flashlight, we're going to be searching for him outside” Ahkmenrah says, grabbing a coat for himself as well.

Nicky nods and takes his jacket wich was hanging onto a chair, the young boy opens the drawer and grabs a spare flashlight his father keeps in case he either lost the other one or it broke.

“Okay, let's go now” Nicky said, Ahkmenrah holds out his hand for the boy to hold, fearing of Nicky going missing as well– somehow– Nicky takes his hand and holds it tenderly “Where are you nice young men going?” Teddy asks, not riding on his horse to look where he was stepping on.

“Me and Ahk are gonna go out and search for Ira there! We'll be back quickly Teddy”

“Tell the guardian of Brooklyn that i went out with Nicky and that he's safe”

Teddy just nods and continues his search.

Chapter 4: Finally found the little orange

Ira was taking in the view from up in the air, Tubee, the name the red head had given the bee, was just chilling with him while trying it's best to steady itself.

The little boy could see exhibits walking around, he saw some of them looking around as if they were searching for something or for someone. This makes Ira a bit worried if there was someone missing. Even Rexy looked worried and watched where he was stepping wich signaled Ira that maybe a miniature was missing.

“Hey Tubee, could we go down a bit? I wanna see what ‘em caboodles doing” he requested from his yellow friend, the bee just buzzed and flew downwards near the exhibits.

Ira looked around, before he spotted Dexter inside the ocean life exhibit.

The little tangerine believed that Dexter was very nice, doing acts of kindness, being a very nice monkey towards him, and many other things. Little did he know that the monkey was a trouble maker like him.

“Hiya Dex!” he greeted, the capuchin chitters a bit, a smile following his face “What's everyone bustling around for?” Ira asks. The capuchin chitters once more but Ira forgot that he can't speak monkey.

The young boy tilts his head, dumbstrucked it seemed “Aw shucks... I can't understand you” Dexter rolls his eyes and just grabs Ira “Hey! What are you doing?!”

“–I'm taking you back to your brother, he's been worried sick–”

Dexter runs as fast as he can, holding onto Ira gently but protectively, the young boy yells out protests towards the monkey “You lil’ chink! Yer a countrified chink, that's what you are!”

“–Keep talking like that all you want orange head, I'm still gonna give you back to Jed–”

Ira wanted to cry, he really did, but he knew it wasn't the time since he was being manhandled by this--- menace of a monkey!

Tubee flew beside Ira, that's when the little cowboy gotten an idea “Pssst, hey Tubee” he whispered loud enough for the buzzing bee to fly more closer to his side “Yeah, can you pull me out here? It smells like pee”

Tubee grabs ahold of Ira's hands, trying it's best to take the little boy from the clutches of the monkey, but sadly, no such luck.

I'll have to think of something else then, Ira thought to himself.

–––––
“Agapito! Who is this child?” Goyo asks one of his men.

The general had gotten back to his diorama with Vicente after getting a few good drinks at the saloon and managed to catch Isa that time.

“General Goyo!” the boy exclaimed, saluting at the young general, this seemed to make Goyo smile fondly “Yes yes... Do you need anything?–”

“Isanagi po sir!”

Goyo nods and let's the child continue “I was here with another child, his name was Ira and he was from the Western diorama, sir”

Goyo was shocked, news about Jedediah's little brother had just been given to them when him and Vicente exited out of the saloon. Ira was here?

The young man rubs his temple “Where is he?” he asks in an octave, that was when the young boy stiffened, a bit scared it seemed. Goyo let's out a sigh and drops down to one knee, he placed a hand on Isa's shoulder and spoke in a sympathetic way “Don't worry, i won't hurt you, i just need to know where he is” Isa looked hesitant, but he gave in “He... He ran away sir, I'm--- I'm sorry sir”

Goyo just smiles, there's no need for Isa to call him sir or to apologize for something that he couldn't control “It wasn't your fault, maybe Ira just felt scared and ran” the young general stands up and fixes his uniform “Agapito, mag sulat ka ng liham para sa mga Westerners, sabihin mo nandito kanina si Ira”

The soldier saluted and left the room. Goyo turns back to Isa “Thank you for telling me this young man, you'd make a great soldier one day, if you want to” Goyo smiles at him.

–––––
‘Oh, where are we now?’ Ira thought, he was annoyed by all this moving the monkey was doing, heck he doesn't even know where they are right now–a room with lots of animals, he's never been in here before, Larry told him that he wasn't allowed to go in yet since he was too young.

But now, he was able to see what it's like inside thanks to Dexter, but he still doesn't forgive the monkey for manhandling him like this.

Inside, there were lions, capuchin monkeys, and lots more! It's just like how Jed and Peter told him!

“–Larry was here earlier with Jed and Oct, maybe they're still here–”

Ira looks around to see Dexter's brothers, three of them looking out for him. The little tangerine thought of his older brothers, he misses them, he doesn't want to be in the smelly hands of this monkey, he wants to go home now.

Ira had another idea.

The red head looked to Dexter, and looked back at the weird texture of the monkey's hand, ‘i hope it works....’

Ira bites a part of the monkey's hand, wich causes Dexter to yelp all so suddenly and toss Ira unknowingly.

The boy goes flying, wind hitting his face as he flew through the room, the wind stops hitting his face because it was the wall's turn to hit him.

His body hits the wall, his left leg and left arm taking the most damage “OW!” he exclaims, the ginger falls to the floor, hitting his face in the process.

Ira starts to cry, unable to feel his arm and leg, Tubee buzzes and flies towards him. As the bee flew closer to him, it nudges him slightly.

“–Get up Ira! I'll fly you back home–”

Ira doesn't understand and just keeps on crying, he touched his face to feel anything, but to his dismay, he doesn't feel anything, only pain, nothing else.

The little boy wails even more “Waaahh! I want Jed! I want to be back in my tent with Ruby in my arms!!” he cradles himself, but Tubee keeps on insisting to fly him home. Although to Ira's understanding, the bee wants him to go cry somewhere else “If you ain't here to comfort me, them you can just go!”

“–I want to help you get back home orange juice!–”

The bee grabs Ira's vest, making him hover for a while until placing him down again, standing up.

“–Just get on my back tangerine boy–” Ira finally understands what Tubee was motioning.

The boy gets on the bee's back and holds tightly, not wanting to see his life flash before his eyes for the third time.

“Let's go find Jed”

––––

Tubee doesn't know where to go, it doesn't know what this Jed looked like, all it knows is that it's the name of Ira's older brother.

Tubee makes way to the main entrance, planning on setting Ira down at the front desk for him to just wait for someone to come and get him, but it was ruined when an exhibit shooed Tubee out to the entrance.

Rude.

–––––
Sacajawea was handling the dioramas, both the leaders were away to look for the little ginger haired boy, Jedediah and Octavius had gave her permission to look after the miniatures for a while.

“Miss Wea” she heard a little voice call out for her, Wea was spectating the diorama from the bench where she was sitting. She turns to her side to see a little girl with dark skin and braided hair looking up to her “Yes?” she asks, her voice sounding as calm as ever.

The explorer held out a hand for the little girl to hop onto “I'm real worried about Ira you see” she said, fidgeting her braided hair, feeling a bit bashful that she was telling this to an iconic woman who might not have even known she existed until now.

“You two are friends, aren't you?” Wea asks, a smile placed upon her face, the little girl nods “What's your name little one?” the little girl sits on Sacajawea's palm, straightening her dress “Alejandra, my name's Alejandra miss Wea”

“Where are your parents?” Wea asked, the little girl points to the West “Mamá y papá are there” she said, her accent coming being visibly heard.

“Did you get permission from them to come here? They might get worried as well” Alejandra shakes her head “Naw, i asked for their permission first ”

Alejandra fidgets her braids “I think you and Teddy are really cool... And it's an honor to talk to ya, maybe i can also talk to mr. Roosevelt next time” she mumbled, Sacajawea smiled, before gently patting Alejandra with a finger “I think you're cool as well”

“Good evening my dear, is there anything i can assist you with?” the two ladies heard from a cheerful voice, Teddy.

“Oh, no dear, I'm managing well” She motions Teddy to come closer, the Texan came closer and Wea placed a quick peck on his lips. Wea smiles at him “Maybe you can take a break and sit here with me?” Teddy hesitates.

“But dear, we still have to look for Ira”

“Oh Teddy, please, i have a friend here who thinks you're very amazing, take a break for a while and talk with her”

“Oh! You don't have to! But if it's alright with mr. Roosevelt...”

Teddy heaves a sigh and sat down beside his wife to talk with Alejandra.

–––––
Ira held onto Tubee, they've been flying for what felt like hours ever since an exhibit shooed Tubee away from the desk– but in reality, it has actually just been ten minutes in their flight.

“Tubee, where are we going?” the bee doesn't say anything, not even a buzz wich kind of scared Ira “Did i do somethin’ wrong?”

A faint buzz was heard from Tubee.

“–Your'e kinda stubborn you know that, right? But you're still a kid so I'll let it go for now–”

Ira just rests his head onto the little set of hair Tubee has and let's the bee take him somewhere, a cold breeze was felt for the young boy “Tubee, where are we? And what's with this cold weather?” Ira held onto his hat, not wanting it to fly away due to the blowing breeze that was having a fight with the little yellow bee right now.

There, he sees Ahkmenrah and Nicky, also looking for something just like everyone else inside the museum.

–––––
“I'm telling you Nicky, he isn't here” Ahkmenrah says, as he re-adjusts his coat.

“We gotta keep searching for him! He might be here, you'll never know” Nicky insisted, re adjusting the beanie he's wearing, man, the weather sure is getting cold now huh?

“Alright, a few more minutes and we'll have to get back inside, I don't want your dad getting worried about both of us, and plus, you're getting chilly duckling”

Nicky stops to look at Ahkmenrah who was ruffling leaves on the ground “Hmmm?”

“You just called me Duckling Ahk, that's a valid nickname for little brothers”

“W-what? No it isn't” Ahkmenrah said, blushing deeply from embarrassment.

“Alright then... Big bear”

––––
Ira heard their conversation, even people who have no connection through blood can still be family members huh? It's a heartwarming thought, seeing Ahkmenrah and Nicky's brotherly relationship just reminded him of him and his brothers.

“Tubee, let's go to them” the bee buzzes and flies towards Ahkmenrah and Nicky.

“Oh dear, a bee” Ahk said, trying to get Tubee away from him in fear of either him or Nick being stung. Ira holds on tight “Hey! Leave Tubee alone mr. Royal gigantor” Ahk and Nicky were surprised.

“Ira?!” Nicky exclaimed, his eyes widened as he cupped his hands for the bee to land onto.

Tubee gently lands onto the boy's palms, and let's Ira down “Hey little gigantor” the little cowboy still couldn't feel his leg or arm, having difficulty in moving.

“What happened to you?” Ahkmenrah said, trying not to panic.

“It's a long story” Ira brushed it off before releasing an ow later on.

––––

“Anyone found anything?!” Jedediah asked, Austin and Peter shook their heads, As well as Teddy and a few more exhibits.

“Jed! A letter from the Filipinos!” a mexican cowboy said, waving around a piece of paper in his hands

“Well read it already!” Jedediah ordered, the mexican instantly opened the letter and began reading.

“To Jedediah, earlier your little brother Ira was here, another young boy accompanied him to my house but when i came back to the diorama, he was already gone and i was told he ran off, maybe due to fear”

Jedediah holds Octavius close, in a scared and unsettled manner. The Roman lets the cowboy touch him for comfort.

“We do not know where he may have gone off to, but the civilians told me that they last saw him riding a bee heading to the unknown, i am sorry but this is all the information i have on Ira, i hope you find him and i hope he is in safe hands. From General Gregorio Del Pilar” the mexican finished reading.

Jedediah sighed heavily, Austin and Peter pat his back before they were given permission to hug him.

“Jed... I'm sorry, we'll keep looking for him and--”

“Dad! We have great news!” Nicky and Ahkmenrah came in through the entrance, Nicky's hands were cupped, he was holding something.

Ira...?

Notes:

Peter and Austin were supposed to have a fight, and it should've led to Peter admitting he was jealous of Ira but i cut that scene 🐝

Chapter 5: Ira's home

Notes:

Hey! Sorry this chapter came out a bit late, had a breakdown infront of my mom and had to handle that first, haha

Please note that i do not know how doctors treat people with dislocated arms or legs, i did some research and this is what my last three braincells could do

I might add another chapter for more fluff, I'm honestly not very fond of this chapter but i only hope you enjoy!<33

“Nicky! Did you and Ahk find him?!” Larry asked, running a hand through his hair, Nicky nods before putting an ambivalent smile “Yeah, but he's not in great shape” the Smith brothers and Octavius immediately panic.

“Nicky! What's happened to ‘im?!” Jed asked exclaiming, Nicky puts his cupped hands on the desk to let them see a limping Ira with a little bee by his side to help.

“Ira!” Austin quickly ran up to the youngest, Jedediah, Peter and Octavius following suit.

“Austin!” Ira greeted, a smile somehow being present even though the young boy was starting to tear up.

“Oh Ira... What happened?”Jedediah asked, hugging the little boy and cradling him gently like how a worried mother would. Ira started to cry in Jed's arms, burying his face in his older Brother's shirt.

“Octy!” Ira held out his right arm for Octavius to hug him, the Roman couldn't bring himself to hug the ginger though, he was still feeling guilty and he even felt that he had no right to interact with any of the brothers for a while because of all of this– because of his mistake.

But there Octavius only saw Ira still holding out his right arm out for the Roman to come and hug him “Please hug me” the little Cowboy requested, a few sobs accompanied him, Octavius sighed and extended his arms to hug Ira.

“Easy now... He's visibly hurt” Peter said.

“Jedediah, you have to get this young boy some help, his left arm and leg looks broken and if he freezes for day time it may become worse” Teddy said nervously “Yeah, Teddy's right Jed, maybe you guys can get him to the doctors in the West or something to help Ira”

Ira's mouth opened wide in shock “Are they gonna tear my left arm and leg off?” he asked as he clutched onto Jed's shirt nervously “They aren't going to sweetie, you needn't to worry” Sacajawea said with an emphatic smile.

“There there Ira, it'll be over before you know it” Jed said, trying to reassure the ginger “Yeah, and if you behave, we'll-- uuuhh-- hey Austin what can we give Ira?” Peter said, whispering the last part, Austin just sighed “-We'll give you flapjacks whenever you'd like” Ira smiled wide, clearly alright with the idea.

Ira thought about it for a moment, sniffling a bit “....Alright then, I'll go”

––––

Ira was with his brothers in the West, waiting for the doctor to let them come in “Hellooooo”

“Peter! Stop it” Austin told Pete, the younger man just rolled his eyes and crossed his arms, the two of them were infront of the door waiting for the doctor to respond while Jedediah and Octavius were comforting Ira.

“Are you comfortable Ira?” Octavius asked, Ira was in Jedediah's arms while the little tangerine was hugging his sheep plushie named Ruby. Tubee was left inside their tent, only waiting for them to come back later.

“Mhm” he mumbled, hugging Ruby with his right arm tightly.

The cabin door opened to show a man with dark skin, dark brow hair and a white coat standing by the doorway, it was the doctor,Mr. Oliver “Oh! The Smiths!” he exclaimed, Oliver ushered the four men to come in “You found him! That's great news, I'll have to do a check up on him so wait in this room please ”

The four of them enter the examination room with Ira, placing the little boy on the chair with his sheep “What's he gonna do?” he asked, turning to Octavius for answers.

“He's going to check you up and see if there is anything else that's broken” Octavius said, patting Ira gently. Oliver then came in “Doc, can i have Jed and Octy here? Please?” Ira asked, Oliver just nodded.

“You heard Ira” Jedediah teased his brothers.

“Ugh, they're like parents to Ira now” Peter muttered wich made Austin snort when they made their way out to the waiting room.

“Now mr. Ira, does anything hurt?” Oliver asked the young boy, Ira nodded “My left arm and leg hurt a lot Doc”

Oliver hummed a bit, he moved Ira's arm a bit before grabbing the wrist “Now Mr. Ira, this'll hurt a bit but imma need you to stay strong, alright?” Ira held out his right hand for Jedediah and Octavius to hold, the two of them holds Ira's hand tenderly “You got this bud” the blonde said as a smile was placed on his face.

“Here we go” Oliver pulled the dislocated arm forward and straight towards him wich caused the little ginger to cry out “Yer tryna kill me!” he bawled.

Octavius was comforting him, drawing small circles on his back and telling the young lad that everything was okay and that it'll be over soon, meanwhile Jedediah only held young Ira's hand as he told the doctor to be more careful and to give them a head up next time.

“Okay, that should do it” the doctor said, as he grabbed a triangular arm sling “Now Ira, you have to put this on for your arm, and later the tablet's magic will help you heal as well” Ira nodded in understanding.

“Please support your arm while i do this”

Jedediah and Octavius smile at Ira “See, you did it, you were very brave Ira” Octavius says, Ira's eyes widened as he looked at Octavius.

Oliver finishes tying the arm sling “Okay, now we'll have to do something about that leg” the doctor said as he looked at the swollen leg the poor little boy has.

“Are you gonna do that thing again?” the ginger asked, his voice trembling, Oliver shakes his head no “What a load of balderdash! You'll only need to compress it with ice and rest, so you don't need to worry young man” Ira felt relief hearing that “–But! You ain't allowed to go anywhere ‘till you get better” Ira became a sad puppy hearing that wich made Octavius and Jedediah feel sympathy and at the same time thought of how cute Ira looked.

–––––
“Ira, how're you feelin’?” Austin asked as the three of them exited the examination room.

Ira was walking with a crutch, with Jed and Oct supporting him as he walked “You tell me” he said, Peter grinned at the sarcastic reply his little brother said, they really are brothers huh.

“C'mon little man, let's get you back to the tent”

––––
“Octy! Are you gonna stay here?” Ira asked all hyper and energetic, Octavius nodded “I am at fault here so i should also take care of you”

Ira was being tucked into his bedroll with his toy sheep next to him as well as Tubee across him to keep guard in case anything happens to the ginger “... Say, where did you get Tubee?” Octavius asks.

“Oh! I followed him through Rome and then i fell off the dadgum diorama and then he caught me!” Octavius’ mouth was wide open due to shock “Maybe we can get back to that part where you fell off the diorama?!” Ira just tilts his head “Tis true though! He caught me very fast then he flew me to the place where you and Jed's friend stay at!” Ira sat up, feeling excitement once more.

“Calm down Ira, don't move too much” the Roman said, placing a hand on Ira's chest and making him lay back down on the bedroll.

“And then, me an’ Tubee went flyin’ off from that diorama cus i thought they're gonna put me in the slammer! And---”

–––––
Jedediah was going in their tent to check up on Ira and Octavius with a tray of flapjacks for the both of them, when he flapped open the tent he saw Octavius holding Ira's free hand while sleeping.

‘How cute’ the cowboy thought to himself as he placed the tray of flapjacks onto a nearby table, Tubee was buzzing across them as well, Jed didn't wanna admit it but the bee was very cute and he's alright with Ira keeping a bee as a pet.

Jedediah came closer to Octavius, trying his best not to make any noise to wake up his little brother “Octy, wake up darlin’ let's get you back to Rome”

Octavius mutters something half asleep “V plus minuta” Jedediah leans in closer to the Roman “Sweetie, if you don't wake up, imma go crash the car” Octavius comically jolts up awake.

“Mi Vida” he mutters, eyes gazing on the blonde infront of him, Jedediah only smirks in amazement “Didn't knew that would actually work” he teased.

“C'mon Octy, you need to go back to Rome” Jedediah hugs his half awake lover, sitting beside him as Octavius only groans “Amore, let them be, I'm sure they can manage without me for one night” Octavius rests his shoulder onto Jedediah's.

The cowboy chuckles to himself “Tavi, you'll be howlin’ tomorrow night on how Rome might be in flames right now and that you regret not bein’ there” he said, half jokingly, but knowing Octavius, this man cherishes his job as leader of Rome.

“I promise, i won't my dear” Octavius places light kisses on the cowboy's cheek.

“Hey Jed, where's--” Austin enters the tent, and he immediately regrets it when he walks in on his younger brother and his lover getting it on near the bedrolls “Yeesh, atleast get another room to get laid, not where our baby brother's sleeping” he walked out of the tent, Jed wanted to shout at Austin but he was reminded that his little brother was sleeping thanks to Ira's snoring.

“ Seriously, i forget that he has a nasty mind under all that emotionless facade” Octavius just snorts.

They stay like this for a while, both cuddling in each other's arms, a comfortable silence in the air until Octavius said something “I'm sorry Jedediah, this is all my fault I shouldn't had--”

“Shhh, that ain't important now kemosabe, we've found Ira and that's all that matters” Jedediah said, shushing his lover before placing a quick kiss on Octavius’ lips.

The Roman blushes deeply because of this “Why, what's going on in that noggin of yours?”

Octavius became silent, he furrows his eyebrows and hugs Jedediah more tenderly “I'm still at fault here love, i didn't notice him going off and now... He's hurt because of me” Jedediah listened sympathetically, holding Octavius in his arms as he talked.

“If i just paid close attention to him then we wouldn't be in this mess” Octavius rested his head onto Jedediah's shoulder “I promise, I'll help take care of him”

“Octy, you don't need to do that”

“But we can sure use the help” Peter pitched in, peeking his head inside the tent “Peter shoo” the ginger rolled his eyes and left.

Octavius smiled slightly “But still Jedediah, i want to help take care of Ira, please let me” Jed looked at Octavius’ chocolate eyes, pausing for a little while before nodding reluctantly “Just look after him alright? We'll be takin’ turns and right now it's supposed to be my turn”

Octavius hummed in reply “Perhaps we can stay like this for awhile?” Jedediah nods “Who'll handle Rome for today?”

“My second in command Marianus can handle it, we can spend all day here love”

“Yeah, i guess we can”

––––
“They're gonna spend all day in that dang tent, Franky, you're in charge for today since Jed trusts you to be his second in command” Austin said to Jedediah's friend Franky Hills, the cowboy only nodded.

Chapter 6: More fluff cuz i said so

“Excuse me, is Ira here?” Peter turned around to see his friend Resty with a small boy, Resty just shrugged, not knowing what this boy was doing looking for Peter's younger brother. Peter observed the young lad, he had black hair, brown skin, he was only wearing a white shirt with red shorts, he also had a basket with him.

“Who are you kid?” Peter asks, the boy just furrowed his brows, annoyed it seemed “My name is Isanagi, I met Ira the other night.” Peter turns to Resty “I found ‘im waitin’ at the mayor's office outside.” the other man replies.

Peter just sighs, massaging his temple “I'll have to ask Ira if you guys did meet, in the meantime---”

“Isa! Glad to see you!” a young and energetic voice interrupted Peter mid sentence.

Austin was helping Ira get out of the tent to walk around for a bit “Pete! He's my friend so don't worry.” Ira waves at Isa, the other boy just waves as well, not that energetic as Ira though.

“Well alright then, Me an’ Resty are gonna go now.” Peter said, he ruffles Ira's hair and just looks at Austin before he just waves goodbye to his brothers.

“Your'e brother seems... Annoying.” Isa said, Ira just pouts “He may be, but that's only for me, Austin, an’ Jed to say!” Austin smiles at Ira, as Isa mutters a sorry to Ira.

Jedediah and Octavius came out of the tent as well, Isa became tense, he has never seen a Roman soldier before but he has heard stories of them from the Filipino soldiers and how scary they can be at times. The sight of Octavius just made Isa a bit scared. “Hey there lil’ fellar, what're you doing here?” Jedediah asked, Isa relaxed a bit.

The four of them looked at him, Isa felt a bit akward due to all the eyes on him “I... I wanted to give Ira these.” he said, as he held up the basket made out of straw with mango leaves as a cover.

Austin looked at what's under the leaves “What is that?” the oldest ginger asked, Isa furrowed his brows “These are dried mangos, you've never heard of them before?”

“Oum, no?”

Isa just nodded “I wanted to give these to Ira to say sorry for scaring him away and as a.... Sign of friendship.”

Ira walked a but closer to Isa “I forgive ya, and I already thought of you as a friend Isa.” he smiled cheerfully, Jedediah and Octavius couldn't help but smile as well “Would you look at that, Ira made a new friend.” Jedediah whispered to his lover, “I'm glad he is making friends.” Octavius replied.

“Ira, maybe you and Isa can go inside the tent, Jed, Octavius, look after ‘em for a while, I'll be going to Molly's.” Austin said, the blonde nodded and Austin left.

“Alright you two, in the tent.” Jedediah said “Yes, time to go in now.” Octavius said, agreeing with Jed. Ira walked to the tent, one had on his crutch and the other wrapped up in an arm sling “Let's go in as well love” Octavius said, gesturing Jedediah to come in first “Naw, Romans first.”

“No no dear, i suggest you go in first–”

“Can you two just please get in?” they heard Ira say, the two if them went in to see Ira and Isa sitting together on the bedroll “Now, mind tellin’ us how you and Ira know each other?–”

“Isanagi po”

“I call him Isa”

Jedediah just shrugged “–Yeah, Isa, how you know my baby brother?” Isa placed the basket of dried mangos on the table “I'm from the Tirad Pass, I met Ira the other night.”

Octavius snapped his fingers “You were the boy Goyo mentioned, right?” Isa's eyes widened in amazement “The general mentioned me?! It's an honor... But yes, I guess you could say that.”

Octavius and Jedediah only smiled at Isa, the young boy seemed to look highly of Goyo and clearly idolized the young general.

“Jed! Maybe me an’ Isa can play outside the tent for a bit? We won't cause no trouble!” Ira pleaded, catching both the older men's attention. Jedediah pauses, rubbing his stubble “Maybe later, we don't want the doctor to catch you out an’ running when he said to just stay put, right?” Jedediah answered, Octavius was going to casually agree, but this time he had been caught off guard with his lover's answer.

“What? Jed, no! Ira still hasn't recovered fully.” the blonde and the ginger put on a pair of puppy eyes, making Octavius weak due to the cuteness.

“Maybe Sir Roman is correct. Ira, you still haven't healed yet and I am alright if we just stay here and play.” Ira was going to protest but Isa just shushed him.

“Excuse me! Are the Smith's home?” a small voice called out from outside the tent. Octavius flapped the tent open and saw a little girl with black braided hair with a basket clearly full of enchiladas “Hello Mr. Octavius, is Ira here?” she asks.

“Ira, you have another visitor!” Octavius cheerfully said as he let the little girl in “Oh hey Alex, whatchu got there?” Ira asks as he spots the basket; The little girl smiles “I brought Enchiladas! Me and Mamá made it.” she puts the basket next to Isa's and inspects Isa before smiling.

“Hey, you're from the Tirad Pass!” she points, Isa nods “Please don't point, it's rude; Also yes my name is Isanagi or you can call me Isa.” he holds out a hand for her to shake, Alejandra unknowingly just shakes his hand “My name's Alejandra!”
––––
“Then Tubee came an’ rescued me! Ain't that cool Miss Wea?” Ira said, as he retold his favorite story to Sacajawea.

The Shoshone woman smiles, interested in the story the little five-year-old is telling.

“Really? Tell me more Ira.”

Ira keeps talking, very excited about his whole story and even going as far as to gesturing with his right arm; There was Austin who was sitting not from a far, keeping an eye out for Ira “Don't strain yourself Lil’ orange.” he calls out to where Ira just agrees.

Something about Ira just reminds Sacajawea of her son, even if he isn't with her in this life, she will always remember him and hold the memory of him close to her heart. Ira is a reminder of Jean Baptiste, even if someone says it's something quite unusual, Wea doesn't mind.
––––
“You want to read "My shadow is pink?" Right?” Ahkmenrah asks, as he holds a story book to read.

They're currently in Ahkmenrah's exhibit, the young king sitting on top of his tomb with Ira, Isa, and Alejandra. As well as Peter who's just keeping an eye on the three children.

“Yes!” Isa and Alex said, both at the same time while Isa just keeps himself composed. Ahk just shrugs “Alright then, if you want to” but before Ahk started, Nick and Attila walk in “Hey, mind if we can listen here as well?” Nicky asks.

“Sure thing lil’ Larry, the more the merrier!” Alejandra said, Attila's eyes widened, happily sitting down on the tomb, Nicky sits on the tomb as well.
––––
“And you're sure Ira can go with y'all to the ocean life exhibit? Even when it's supposed to be a date night?” Polly asks as Molly just cooes at Ira, fixing his hat and yellow bandana.

“Yup! We'll be looking after Ira tonight so you gals don't have to worry.” Jed replies with a confident smile.

“Jed, we can always cancel our plans to babysit Ira, it ain't that hard for the Campbell twins." Polly said, Jedediah just limps his wrist “Naw, we insist. Y'all always babysat Ira for us. And besides, we'll just be sittin’ there and enjoying the view”

“Yeah!” Ira exclaimed in agreement.

“You two really are brothers.” Molly said as she stood up and fixed her western dress. The Smith brothers snicker as the Campbell twins roll their eyes.
––––
“Careful Ira, are you sure you don't need help getting down?” Octavius asked, offering a hand to the little boy to wich Ira just gratefully declines “No thanks mr. Oct, i can handle it” he says, as he clearly struggles to get out from the car.

Ira sighs “Okay, now you can help” the redhead said in defeat. Octavius just smiles and picks up Ira, holding him in his arms.

The young boy's leg cast has already been removed and now it's only his triangular arm sling left.

“Jedediah! Have you set up the blanket?” The Roman questioned as he walked closer to where Jed was.

The cowboy scratched his forehead due to an itch “Yep, you can place Ira here darling” the blonde man stated. Octavius gently let's Ira down on the blanket, placing him in a sitting position.
“Wowee! This place looks amazing” the tangerine said, taking in the view. Jed and Oct sit besides Ira.

“It sure is huh” his older brother said.

They sit in comfortable silence until Ira slowly falls asleep, resting his head onto Jedediah's lap, peacefully starting to dream.

“Do you want to head back, or--” before the cowboy could finish, he saw his Roman lover slowly starting to drift off to sleep, the blonde sighs “C'mere Octopus”

Octavius turns his head onto Jed and lets the other man gently caress his neck, pulling Octavius to Jedediah's shoulder, letting him rest there for a while.

Notes:

I AM SO SORRY THIS IS A MONTH LATE, WRITER'S BLOCK GOT ME, I HAD TO GET READY FOR SCHOOL, THEN SCHOOL STARTED AND YEAH--- I'm sorry again, i hope you take this as a peace offering 😭😭

Notes:

Fun fact: while i was writing this, i was listening to the breakdancing cat music 😺