Gems 3 Easy Steps to Getting a New Family

by Corbinfall

Summary:

"A tethered being only has so few opportunities to thrive, becoming a hero is one of them." Fwhip told her that years ago when he joined, Gem stayed with him to support him but she hated it, never accepted she began working as a vigilante and eventually stumbled across a wounded villain, its due to them her life changed.

Chapter 1: The first of many nights healing in alleys

Crystal sat quietly watching as Toxin and Fairy went at it again, Fairys patrol partner Bloom was nowhere to be seen. A large sickly grey cloud surrounded them in an instant and she watched Fairy struggle out coughing. “Bloom I've been hit i need back up” she managed to hear faintly.

As she went to engage she watched Toxin appear from his poisonous cloud. “There’s no Bloom to help you here” he huffed, lifting a small vial up.

Crystal took that as her sign to engage only to be knocked off course by a vine. “That's enough of that Toxin.” She hung in the air her foot caught by the vine as Bloom appeared from an alley. The villain glanced between the two before throwing down another bottle, this one thankfully a harmless smoke screen. Bloom released the vine that was around her foot.

“Crystal.” even with the mask covering her mouth and nose she could see her frown.

“I could have helped you know, i was going to” she explained “just because i’m not aligned with either of you doesn’t mean i won’t help”

“Yes, because light manipulation would have been so helpful.” Fairy, now recovered from her mix up with the poison, was leaning against Bloom.

Crystal longed to correct them and mention the healing but she stayed silent, a call must have been coming in because Bloom lifted her hand to her ear piece, her eyes widened “Watcher and Apollo have been spotted on fall street, Amphitrite and Fwhip are engaging but they need backup” she quickly explained not even caring that Crystal stood right there

“That's a few blocks away from here lets go!” Fairy began to take off

“Go home Crystal, you don’t belong out here.” Bloom warned taking off after her partner.

Crystal watched for a few moments before climbing back onto the roof and taking off towards where the fight was, taking a longer route to avoid the police and other heroes that had begun to surround the area. As she came into view of the area she saw a blinding purple light blind the area. Below Bookkeeper was giving instructions,

“They used their emergency escape route meaning that our brave heroes must have wounded one of them badly enough for them to need to run,” he explained calmly to the press “Boatem will most likely be down at least one member meaning they’re weaker, we will continue to look for them but it’s important we all remain vigilant. Speak up, report, receive.”

She rolled her eyes at the stupid motto the city had created. As she began the long walk home she heard hushed voices talking down a side road “i’m fine it’s only a bit of blood”

“You literally got stabbed by that stupid elf i should have taken him out-”

“Scar that would have gotten us in even more trouble”

“Watcher we’re in public code names” Scar responded

“No one’s going to be out around here not if the media was already aware we were fighting”

Crystal gasped as she realised it was Watcher and Apollo, she put a hand over her mouth but it was too late, they had gone silent “no one around huh?” Apollo huffed, rounding the corner to see her

“I mean no harm i swear” she yelped putting her hands up dropping her mask that had been in her hand. “I couldn’t harm you if I wanted since my powers are useless anyways.” she added more to herself

“How much did you hear?” he asked raising his bow so it was aimed at her head

“I heard Watcher was injured and that's about it.” she responded feeling her heartbeat in her throat “actually i could heal it for you” she added

“You’re a healer?” Watcher had made his way around the corner “how has the hero-corp not taken you in yet?” he asked holding a hand over his stomach

“Because i didn’t tell them anything about it, just my light manipulation” she explained Apollo lowered his bow and instead began talking to his communicator

“Artemis on her way and she’s bringing Notos” he explained “and you’re going to heal him and then come with us just to be safe”

Crystal nodded quickly, abandoning her mask on the ground. She summoned a small ball of light so she could see the wound and began work. Watcher sat back against the wall pain making his features “so is being stabbed fairly normal?” she asked

“It depends on who you’re fighting, with someone like Fairy or Symmetry yes but that's not normal for Fwhip” he responded wincing

“Sorry about that” she murmured sewing closed the wound with a string made of light

“So you’re able to both manipulate light and also use it for healing?” he asked glancing down at the wound

“I think so, i could probably do more but strict power rules” she shrugged “the hero-corp didn’t want someone who could throw balls of light so they never hired me”

“I’m surprised they didn’t run a full power background check…” he murmured

“I was an unregistered baby,” she explained “my brother is the only one who is registered and it took him becoming a-” she cut herself off quickly looking away “there that shouldn’t be bleeding anymore just don’t do anything to open it again”

He nodded and managed to struggle to his feet to lean against Apollo, his usually fear striking wings dragging tiredly across the ground. A flash of light brought Crystals attention to a tired looking woman who must have been Artemis and a green clad man

“Apollo Watcher what happened? I saw the news”

“Exactly what it looked like but Fwhip stabbed Gri- Watcher” Apollo explained

“Are you bleeding?” she asked

“No she helped” Watcher responded pointing at Crystal who had been standing awkwardly behind them. Her eyes moved to inspect Crystal, they looked like they had seen thousands of life times before.

“So we’re taking her?” she asked

“I suppose we have to since she’s seen and heard too much now” Apollo responded. Artemis nodded, walking back over to the man who had brought her here.

“Let's go then.” she sighed, taking his hand Apollo took Crystal's hand as Artemis put a hand on his shoulder. As they teleported into a small computer filled room it dawned on her who the man was. Waiting for them were the final two members of Boatem, Hades and Garnet, the two least seen in public.

“Who is she?” Hades asked

“This is…” Apollo looked over at her “i never actually asked your name-”

“Oh! Crystal, is the name I've been going under” she responded “though legally my name is Gemini or Gem for short” she responded.

“Well Gem welcome to Boatem” Hades smiled slightly “enjoy your long stay.

Notes:

The Playlist

My Twitter

Chapter 2: A closed door of opportunity

Garnet had left with Watcher a while ago to actually clean up and check the wound, leaving Gem alone with the other four. “Apollo, why don’t you give Hades a full rundown of the events and I'll deal with our… guest” Artemis ordered “and thank you Notos for helping” she added to the taller man.

He nodded in response. “Now my debts are done and I'm good to go, right?”

“Of course,” she nodded. Like that he was gone “now come with me please” she said Gem followed carefully as they wound their way down a few flights of stairs. “We never actually thought we would hold anyone hostage to be completely honest, so you’ll be staying here” she explained opening a door.

“Oh wow this is so much better than sharing a dorm at the hero-corp…” walking around the semi furnished apartment in awe.

“There’s no food in here currently but I'll make sure someone drops some off, just remember you cannot leave or one of us will kill you.” Artemis reminded,

“Why are you doing this? Why didn’t you kill me in that alley, or as soon as I landed in your control room?” Gem asked quickly

“Because healing powers are so rare to find. Killing you would have been a waste” she responded “take care Crystal” she added leaving. Gem noted that she didn’t lock the door behind her. She collapsed into the couch feeling exhaustion drag at her. Yawning, she pulled the small blanket over herself and passed out.

***

The sound of knocking caught her attention dragging her from the heavy weight of sleep. “One sec-” she mumbled hopping up from the bed. Opening the door she was met by Hades,

“I brought you some soup Artemis made” he explained handing over a small container

“Oh thanks!” Gem smiled “what kind of soup is it?” she asked

“Cream of mushroom” he responded

“Oh perfect! Tell Artemis i say thank you” she closed the door and placed the soup on a table, the ache in her back had started to become more painful, taking her hoodie off she allowed her wings to appear not hiding them anymore. Sighing in relief she stretched them out, before sitting down to eat the soup.

After she finished she turned on the small tv in the room, it was defaulted to the news channel, and was talking about the Boatem attack from last night. “...But in more interesting news, a young woman named Gemini Tay has been reported missing, her so-called vigilante mask being found near the attack site with blood all round it. Hero Fwhip Tay, the missings brother, has placed a call for help in finding her. If you have any clues what so ever remember to speak up, report, receive. More after this short break.”

“Oh…” was all Gem could manage. Loud knocking on the door broke her from her trance. She slowly opened it to see Watcher and Artemis standing there

“You’re Fwhips sister? Like the guy who stabbed me, his sister?” Watcher quickly said his wings fluttering

“You’re related to one of the faces of hero-corp and they kicked you out?” Artemis added

Gem opened her mouth to respond but nothing came out besides a small pathetic chirp. That seemed to make both of them fall silent, just long enough or Garnet to appear “both of you stop tormenting her she just found out the world probably thinks she's dead let her be”

“Her brother stabbed me-” Watcher started before being shot down by a glare he huffed slightly flapping his wings

“Artemis you have a meeting in three hours, Watcher you still shouldn’t be out of bed.” Garnet sighed “now leave her alone” he ordered watching the two leave. “Sorry about them, they're very protective of each other, as is Apollo but he’s already at work thankfully…”

“That's fine… i get that feeling” she added dryly glancing towards the tv where Fwhip was now standing, “i should probably watch this bit-” she excused herself to see what he was saying.

“Gem I have no idea if you’ll see this but if you do please come home,”

“What home?” she muttered “the hero-corp where your colleagues judge me for nothing?”

“Once i find you i’m going to retire and get you far away from the hero-corp i promise-” rolling her eyes she turned off the tv

“That's enough of that” she sighed. The silence in the room was driving her crazy so she decided to take a walk through the hall.

Wandering down the halls she couldn’t help but notice how well kept everything was, better than the hero-corp dorms had ever been. She ended up near the control room she had seen yesterday “oh you’re out and about” Hades stepped into the hall from a room

“Should I not be?” she asked

“I don’t know about the other four but as long you’re just wandering and not trying to escape i don’t really care” he shrugged “welcome to complex B1T by the way”

“Wait, one of the biggest villain groups in the city is just living in an apartment complex?”

“Well technically Apollo bought it off Mayor Ren and we just set it up as our base of operations, we rent the lower floor for dirt cheap for people who need a place to stay, and some other villains and vigilantes rent a room as either a hide out or just their home.” he explained leaning against the wall

“I’m guessing we’re in one of the poorest parts of the city then”

He nodded “you would never guess that from how it looks in here though” he added “plus no one ever thinks to check this part of the city it’s always the richest parts”

“That's surprisingly smart,” she hummed.

***

A few days had gone by giving Gem lots of time to adjust, she had avoided the news like a plague not wanting to know if she was considered dead or not yet when a knock woke her up around four AM. wearing the blanket like a cloak she went to open the door “why are you waking me up at four in the morning?” she groaned expecting it to be one of the Boatem members.

Orion -a more minor villain known for his songs that would cause entire police forces to stop- stood in front of her “mmm this was the wrong room-” he groaned “wait aren’t you that girl the news reported missing-”

“Who are you looking for?” she sighed

“Uh Artemis” he responded

She nodded “she’s going to be livid we’re waking her up at four AM” leading him down the hall.

“I’m sure once she hears what's happening she’ll be fine” he responded

“Whatever you say, this is her apartment” Gem pointed at the door in front of them, runes carved into it “good luck dealing with her”

He nodded knocking on the door, there was the sound of shuffling as the door opened slightly “Orion you better have a good reason for being here” she sighed her voice modifier must have been off because an accent was noticeable.

“Have you heard from Sausage recently? He got into a fight with Moss and i haven’t heard from him since” he asked

“You woke me up to ask for the whereabouts of a vigilante?” she opened the door more

“It’s been a week i was starting to get worried” he responded Gem backed up slightly feeling like she was intruding only to get a small head shake from Artemis

“He’s probably up in the garden, you know how to get there, why are you going through me?”

“I checked that he’s not there.” Orion responded “or his house”

“If it really makes you feel better I can ask Hades or Garnet to pull up his location.” she sighed, pulling out her phone. “Garnet is unsurprisingly awake, and he’s going to go check” she responded

“Alright and Garnet is 602?” Orion asked

Artemis nodded “yep 602,”

“Thanks!” he called running off down the hall

“Gem, may I speak to you?” she asked

“Uh i guess?” she responded following Artemis into her apartment,

“What do you think about him?” she asked

“He’s a very interesting case, he seems very frazzled, all the things the hero-corp say about him make him out to be this horrifying man who’s willing to kill a police force without a second thought.” she responded “he seems like the type of guy who barely has enough focus to stay on topic”

“That's exactly what he’s like,” she confirmed “we became acquaintances via our friend Sausage and his energy is more terrifying than his powers most days”

“The media makes you all out to be corruption in the city but so far you’ve all treated me better than they ever have…” she murmured

“We’re not innocent Gem, they’re not lying most of the time when they speak of our crimes.” Artemis responded, “there’s a reason we’re the second most feared group in the city besides the syndicate. The victors define history”

She shook out her wings “sorry you must be exhausted i’ll let you go, sleep well Gemini”

“Good night Artemis.” she responded, returning to her room.

Notes:

the boatem crews identity and powers

Grian aka Watcher - “eyes of the city”, able to view areas he’s seen before
Mumbo aka Garnet - no powers just really good with bombs (immortal)
Impulse aka Hades - ground manipulation
Pearl aka Artemis - sleep and dream manipulation
Scar aka Apollo - sharp shooter

& Gem aka Crystal - healing & light manipulation

The Playlist

My Twitter

Chapter 3: The burning of the olive branch.

Gem awoke to the sound of fire alarms screeching, smoke filled the air, her door was flung open by Watcher “we need to get out” he ordered. Gem nodded, pulling a sleeve over her mouth and nose so she wouldn’t inhale as much smoke. He grabbed her wrist and dragged her down flights of stairs until they were outside.

Gem coughed her lungs burning, “Watcher Gem good you’re here, there’s been no sign of Garnet since he went back in, Watcher please can you check-”

“Yep on it, give me a minute.” he responded

“Is there anything I can do to help? I can’t just stand here” Gem asked

“I’ve been sending those injured across the street, there’s a few others with medical history, see if you can help there” Artemis responded. Gem nodded, running across the street quickly finding someone to talk to and getting in a flow of helping.

The sound of raised voices caught her attention as she spun around to see a man arguing with Apollo. “I need to get in there, Sausage and Hermes are stuck.”

“If you go up to your floor you’ll die Joel.”

“I don’t need to get up to my floor, I need to get to the basement! So either move Scar or I'll force you out of the way.” he threatened

She came over “i could probably get into the basement” she piped up, both of them turned to look at her “i’m shorter than both of you and if i get burned i can heal myself on the go”

“Let her go with me,” Joel responded. “I work around toxic chemicals for a living. I think i’ll be alright with a little fire.”

Apollo sighed “did you call Amphitrite already?” he asked

“Yes. She and Thetis are coming but they’re stuck a few blocks away.”

Apollo nodded “don’t let the others know i’m not stopping you go quick be safe.”

Joel seemed visibly revealed he quickly pulled an iconic mask out of his pocket “lets go.” he grunted heading towards the fire.

“Here Gem” Apollo handed over a mask quickly “be safe.”

She pulled it on and followed Toxin into the flames. He led her down a set of stairs “this way” he stated pusing open the door. It was slightly cooler in the basement but so smokey, the sound of coughing made her begin fine combing the area “Sausage!” Toxin ran over to where a man and a boy were.

“The back exit was blocked” the man -Sausage- wheezed “i gave my mask to Hermes so the smoke wouldn’t be so bad” he added Toxin nodded

“Then take mine” he ordered passing over his mask, Sausage glanced over at Gem “she’s already seen my face” he added

“I don’t think the building is going to hold much longer. I’d check you both for burns but it isn’t safe” she explained. Nodding in agreement Toxin helped Sausage back up the stairs Gem carried the young boy on her back, by the time they made it to the exit the building had begun to groan in complaint.

“Everyone get away from the building!” a voice ordered. The four quickly rushed outside, Gem spreading her wings behind her to protect them. The building collapsed behind them sending burning debris flying.

The last thing she remembered before blacking out was being pulled away from the building.

***

A burning pain forced Gem awake, biting her lip in pain she looked around to see pods of people in all different states of despair, “you shouldn’t be up yet” she turned slightly to see a woman with short pink hair

“Thetis-” she began

“It’s just Niki, I hate hearing that name after all the damage they cause.” she responded “i’m glad to see you’re alive” she added

“Let me help with healing please i can be useful” Gem bagged dragging herself up

“Gem you knocked yourself out protecting Toxin and Myth I’m not letting you do anything or Boatem will kill me” Niki responded.

“I knocked myself out?” she asked

“You managed to use your light to create a shield so that flaming debris didn’t hit them” she responded “i’m not doubting your healing abilities either, Crystal was one of my biggest helps after bad fights but you’re too weak right now to heal anyone”

“But I feel useless here-” Gem started before quickly being silenced by a glare.

“Shelby!” she called. A young woman appeared seemingly from the shadows “can you make sure Gem doesn’t hurt herself more than she already has? If she tries anything, call for Pear- Artemis” she ordered.

Shelby nodded sitting down on the makeshift bed next to Gem, as soon as Niki left she let out a sigh. “You really scared the shit out of me when I found your mask in the alley” she murmured,

“Wait, you found me? But the news said Bloom found- oh.” the realization hit her like a bus

“Yeah oh” Bloom nodded

“But why are you here then?”

“The hero-corp wanted to cover up your death completely, it only got out because Fwhip went behind their backs and spoke out, seeing the backlash they gave him for that I decided I needed to get out of there” she explained “so now i’m playing double agent for them”

“Good luck with that please don’t get caught” Gem offered weakly “can you tell Fwhip i’m safe? if it won’t get you in trouble of course-”

She seemed to soften slightly. “I'll see what I can do, now why don’t you rest, Niki managed to get the blisters to stop bleeding but they’re still raw.”

Gem nodded in agreement, exhaustion and pain wanting to drag her down “before I fall asleep, Myth and Toxin and the kid?”

“Are perfectly fine. Myth inhaled a lot of smoke and Hermes has a few bad burns but they’ll survive.” Shelby responded.

Assured they were safe, Gem fell asleep again.

***

“But what if someone got footage of Sun Weaver? There’s only so many people with the ability to wield and create pure light like that.” She could hear Apollo say

“Then we go with a new plan, convince her to join Boatem properly and get her to be the one to deliver the message” Artemis responded

“Won’t someone catch on? A young vigilante goes missing after we’re caught in a fight and suddenly we have a new member who looks somewhat like her?” Hades pointed out.

Oh they were talking about her “we’ll figure out more the closer we get to responding,” Garnet muttered finally. the sound of shuffling told her they were leaving and she finally opened her eyes.

“Good morning Gem, what’s your take on the events?” she met eyes with Artemis quickly

“how did you- right sleep manipulation stuff that adds up…” she sighed “in all honesty if you’re willing to accept me then i would join you.” she replied honestly

“You’re very trusting,” she hummed.

“Where are we by the way?” Gem asked looking around what seemed to be a hotel

“Ah welcome to the Chromia hotel, Scott is an old friend of mine, when he caught word ended up booking an entire floor for us and anyone left without a home after the burning” she explained before wincing slightly.

“Are you okay?” Gem asked

“I got burnt by the fire and my mask keeps rubbing against it” she responded

“I could heal it if you’re comfortable enough removing your mask” Artemis was silent for a moment before carefully removing her mask.

An ugly burn covered a small patch of her face, “no wonder that's irritating” Gem murmured, carefully raising a ball of light to the damaged spot “I can’t help but feel like i’ve seen your face before…” she added

Artemis leaned back closing her eyes “you probably have, the uh skulk infection a few years ago”

“Oh! You’re Pearl Moon-” the pieces seemed to snap into place “and does that mean Watcher is Grian Craft?” she asked

“How did you manage to connect that?” Pearl asked

“The way you two act seems to go farther then just two villains driven together, plus his mannerisms were very similar to the tapes Fwhip and Bloom managed to sneak to the dorm for us to watch” she responded,

“So the hero-corp was really stupid when they kicked you out.” Pearl hummed “impressively strong powers and smart enough to figure things out that took years for others”

“And Artemis can you confirm something for me? Apollo is Scar Goodtimes right?” Artemis nodded in confirmation “that’s pretty ironic then” Gem laughed slightly “the mayors right hand man is a villain and the mayors a hero”

“Rens a hero?” she asked moving slightly

“Stop moving you’re going to make it worse, but yes, one of the more well known ones too surprisingly” she responded “there it should be done” moving her hands away from Pearl's face she could clearly see the burned patch was nothing more than some red skin.

“Thank you” Pearl smiled slightly. Before a knocking on the door caught her attention and made her look over. Sighing she pulled her mask on and went to open it “oh Scott whats up?”she asked

“The crow and canary are waiting for you and the others in the meeting room floor two” he explained handing her a keycard

She nodded in response “masked or civilian?”

“They’re not wearing any masks but Phi… he seemed to spot Gem and froze glancing between the two

“She’ll either hear it now or end up figuring it out so no point hiding it” Pearl shrugged

“Right… well Phil seemed really bothered by something and Jimmy i know for a fact has been running around the city for the past two days nearly nonstop so he’s going to be exhausted” Scott explained “good luck, if i have time i’ll stop in”

“Thanks Scott” Pearl smiled, brushing her wings against his “Gem lets go!” She called glancing back “you’re going to meet some other family friends.”

Notes:

more new people yk what that means?

Shubble aka Bloom - plant manipulation & shadow manipulation
Lizzie aka Amphitrite - water manipulation
Niki aka Thetis - water breathing & healing
Joel aka Toxin - shape shifting (uses poisons instead)
Sausage aka Myth - speak to animals & plant manipulation

The Playlist

My Twitter

Chapter 4: The second time in an alley

As the elevator opened onto floor two Gem couldn’t help but shiver slightly at the energy, it was dark and serious for the most part though the sound of laughter and talking as they got closer managed to ease those feelings. As Pearl pushed open the door Gem was overwhelmed by sights.

They all turned to look at Pearl and Gem as they entered, a pale blonde man with crow wings stood up “Pearl how have you been?” he asked smiling “and you must be the Gem Grian told us so much about”

“That's me” she smiled politely

A younger guy wearing a red hoodie came over “you have really pretty wings” he complemented

“Thank you?” Gem responded

“This is Tommy my youngest” Phil introduced

“Are we ready to start yet?” a pink haired man asked, glancing up from where he was cleaning a small knife.

The brunette next to him rolled his eyes “oh my names Techno i’m all business even though its my family i haven’t seen in months” he mocked his voice an exact replica of his.

“And i thought i asked you to stop copying my voice” he added

“Where’s Impulse and Mumbo?” Pearl asked

Grian let out a sigh a slight purple tinge tainting his eyes and hands “Mumbo is just in the elevator down” he answered his voice seeming echoey as if he was far away “and Impulse isss… hm i can’t find Impulse.” he stated eventually the purple fading.

The door opened to show Garnet in civilian clothing “sorry i got distracted working on something” he explained rubbing some oil off his hands “where’s Impulse?” he asked

“We’re not sure but we can’t delay any longer so we’ll have to proceed without him” Grian responded, pulling out a chair. Gem sat down next to Pearl the pink haired man -Techno- on her other side. She tried to shrink into her seat quickly

“So if it’s not clear enough we heard about the fire” Phil started glancing between them “how much was lost?” he asked

“Since the building collapsed any and all documents that might have given us away ended up buried and burnt beyond the point if they found them they would have helped.” Grian explained “all the footage from around and inside the building was lost meaning we have no idea who did it”

The brunette nodded “the only known pyro user is Pyre but considering among villains that was a known Boatem building he wouldn’t have done it.”

“Ah about that…” the table turned to look over at the one member of the table that had been silent until now “while patrolling the area i ran into Pyre, he wasn’t in very good shape from what he managed to tell me he got into a fight with someone who he thought was Moss who left him there.” he explained “so it wasn’t him and i can vouch for him”

“Moss, his power is to steal others for a short amount of time right?” Pearl asked

“Yes they are, if he’s within a certain distance and within a certain time limit he can use them. It wouldn’t have helped Pyre since it drains the victims energy for him to use the powers.” Gem explained,

Techno glanced over at her in surprise “where did you find her?” he asked

“Gemini Tay, Fwhips sister i lived in that horrible hero-corp building for years” she introduced herself “i know most of the ins and outs of that place”

“Oh so you’re the girl the news wouldn't shut up about for a bit, the hero-corps willing to pay a lot to have you returned”

“Wilbur that makes you sound like a creep” Tommy responded

“Back on topic.” Phil cut in “from any of the surrounding buildings did you find footage?”

“I checked, most of it was either useless or the cameras were too pixelated to see anyone” Mumbo responded

“So we’re at a dead end then, we can’t bring that to the media anonymously with nothing, if anyone got videos it was from after the fire started. The only heroes there were Amphitrite Thetis and Bloom, and they were helping us” Grian sighed

“Then we go with plan B. We burn something of theirs and our newest member Sun Weaver makes a statement.” Pearl responded standing up

“Sun Weaver huh? You all get cool Greek god names and i get that” Gem joked

“You get to hang out with me and Mumbo in the non-Greek god name club” Grian pointed out

“Oh i’m thrilled” she sighed “Sun Weaver it is” she agreed.

Pearl's phone began to ring, sighing she answered “hello who is this?” she asked

Though muffled Gem was able to pick up on the conversation easily “listen Artemis this is uh Vex”

“Vex… how did you get this number?” she asked cautiously

“Scar gave me the number in case something bad happened. It doesn’t matter, I just found Hades slumped nearly dead in an alley.” the voice explained panicked “he’s bleeding a lot”

“Where are you?” Pearl asked quickly, standing up. Vexes voice became to quiet for Gem to make out after that “Gem we need to go” she explained quickly dialing another number

“I know I heard” Gem jumped up. Quickly following Pearl

“Sorry to cut this short feel free to try and come up with any plans but we’ve got an emergency on hand” Pearl explained

“What happened?” Grian asked jumping up

“Stay here. We don’t want to drag too much attention to ourselves” she explained quickly before pulling the phone up to her ear. “Scott, I'm going to be bringing Impulse through the building in a bit. Can you clear the lobby once I text you the code so we can get through without suspicion?” she asked, dragging Gem out a side door.

Putting her phone away they ran quickly winding through busy streets until Pearl pulled her into a random empty side road, a man in a lab coat stood at the end waving his arms to flag them down. “Oh thank the stars” he sighed “he’s just here” he motioned towards a small alley.

Gem darted past him into the alley, light gathered at her palms. Creating a small ball of light that hung over him showing the damage. “And i thought Watcher getting stabbed was bad-” she murmured.

Bending the light to her will she wrapped it around the worst of the wounds. “Is there anything i can do to help?” Pearl asked her hands working anxiously

“If you want to try and clean some of the blood off of him” Gem suggested, handing her a small cloth strip she had torn off her old shirt. “But besides that no i need to focus” Pearl nodded in response

As Gem transferred more of her energy into the healing process she began to feel light headed but the fresh wounds had begun to scab over. “I hate to rush you but there’s a hero patrol headed this way” Vex warned

“I’ll deal with them.” Artemis responded standing up “ignore the yelling for a moment.” she added pulling her mask on.

As expected there were so yells from whichever heroes were out there followed by the sound of something hitting the floor, before Artemis appeared again.”that should save us maybe five minutes, Bookkeeper is mostly immune to my powers but Fwhip should be down for a bit and they won’t separate.”

“Fwhip…” Gem murmured, feeling a pit in her stomach her powers wavered slightly.

“Gem, it’s alright you’re fine he won’t know.” Pearl comforted “I'm not letting him take you back to the hero-corp.” she promised

Gem nodded weakly “his wounds are healed enough we should be able to move him” she murmured Pearl sighed quickly sending a text

“Thank you for phoning Vex you have earned a favour from us if you ever need it” she promised. “Now Gem, are you ready?” she asked, kneeling down so a hand was on Impulse's shoulder. Gem nodded and Pearl held out her other hand for her to take.

The stomach twisting feeling of being teleported hit her hard. They were standing in the hotel lobby which was empty besides the other Boatem members and the Syndicate. Scott was there too and the second he noticed Gem he quickly came to her side “there’s a washroom just over there” he whispered pointing to a door.

She nodded in thanks rushing over. After a minute or two of her vomiting there was a knocking on the stall door “Gem? You alright?” Pearl asked

“No not really” she responded weakly with tears falling down her face, there was silence outside for a moment before Pearl slid under the stall door.

“Power sickness?” she asked pulling Gems hair back from her face

“That and teleporting” Gem responded “normally using my powers makes me pass out but apparently healing that much makes me sick” she explained

“Ah i get that, there’s a reason i rarely use my powers and rely on combat instead” Pearl nodded “and teleportation messes me up too even with me being half enderian”

“Pearl did you really see Fwhip?” Gem asked

“Yeah… i shouldn’t have said anything but i forgot” she apologized “he looked better than he’s looked whenever the media showed him recently” she added

Gem smiled weakly “I love my brother. I couldn't hate him but sun, I hate his choices to live there for all those years.”

Pearl hummed in response “why don’t we get out of this bathroom stall and go get cleaned up? You’ve got blood on your clothes and hands” she offered a hand to Gem pulling her off the floor.

After changing into some clean clothes Gem felt better “how is Impulse by the way?” she asked

“You managed to stop all the bleeding and close the wounds for the most part, they’ll be nothing more then scars when he’s fully healed, but he is out of commission now” Pearl responded

A knock on the door caught their attention, opening it revealed Scott “Phil told me to tell you he’s taking Grian” Scott explained though something felt off.

“Oh really? Why couldn’t he tell me that himself?” Pearl asked

Scott shrugged “also i’m dati-” he started

“What are you two doing?” down the hallway a second Scott and Jimmy appeared

“Tommy we gotta run we’ve been caught-” Wilbur's voice ordered, peeking around the corner Gem spotted him, the “Scott” in front of them laughed slightly before shifting back into Tommy and the pair quickly took off down the hall.

“Children. That's what they are.” the real Scott sighed. “Grian Mumbo and Scar need to talk to you Pearl” he added holding out another keycard.

She nodded, taking it “get some rest Gem we’ll talk tomorrow” Pearl said before leaving.

Notes:

Phil aka Eurus - power neutralizer
Wilbur aka Orpheus - voice copying and projecting
Techno aka Atlas - illusions
Tommy aka Theseus - shape shifting
Cub aka Vex - Telesthesia (see through walls and shit)

The Playlist

My Twitter

Chapter 5: Caught in the halls

Gem woke up the next morning with a pounding headache. There was someone knocking at the door and she went to go get it. “Stay there Gem i’ll get it” Pearl ordered

“Oh good morning officer is something the matter?” she asked

“Morning ma’am we just wanted to let you know there was reports of Boatem member Artemis and Syndicate members Atlas and Eurus over the past twenty-four hours near here”

“Oh my thats terrifying- i hope they aren’t planning something” Pearl responded, Gem could just imagine her trying not to laugh

“We’re keeping an eye out for them but we’re currently informing those staying here that they may want to cut their trips short, the two main villain groups both spotted here can’t be good.” the officer explained “Speak up, report, receive”

“Of course thank you officer” Pearl closed the door, as she rounded the corner into view she began laughing “it’s been a while since i’ve had to do that” she grinned sitting down on Gems bed. “How are you feeling?” she added

“Good i had a pretty bad headache but passive healings dealing with that” Gem responded

“Thats good! So about the meeting last night,”

“Oh boy…”

“Originally we were going to wait a few weeks before the burning but with Impulse out of action we’ve decided to go now.” Pearl explained

“Wait like now now?” Gem asked worriedly

“Tonight. There’s a party in the city hall and there’s a small history of the hero-corp museum across the street” she responded

“But I don't have a disguise and won’t someone see it’s me?”

Pearl quickly reached into her suitcase “I was going to save this for once we were one hundred percent sure about this but here” she handed over a long golden dress that was made of a light spider web like fabric, it shifted under her fingers pulsing with the energy of light.

“Its beautiful-” Gem gasped taking it carefully,

“Its made of this really neat material thats almost light so you’re able to control the length with your powers!” she explained happily “and of course we need to get you a voice changer but for tonight you should be able to borrow mine” Pearl added. Her phone began buzzing and she answered with a sigh “hello?”

“Hey, Impulse is awake, we’re trying to figure out what happened” Mumbos voice explained

“Okay i’m on my way, 413?” hanging up she turned to Gem “are you wanting to come?” she asked

“Sure if i can’t help i can at least check over his wounds” Gem responded placing the dress on her bed.

By the time they reached Impulses room the sound of just barely audible voices was noticeable, entering Gem was surprised by how much tech had survived. “Gem! Pearl! Welcome to the party!” Scar smiled looking up from where he was trying to braid Impulses hair,

Impulse sighed shifting so he was sitting up more, the deeper wounds were clearly still painful because he winced as he moved. “Now that you’re all here i guess i owe an explanation” he sighed “i kept getting pings about someone with hero level equipment and they just seemed to keep circling the hotel. So I went to investigate.” taking a deep breath he continued “i ended up following them to that side road and after that it got really difficult to see.”

“We’re very lucky Vex found you” Gem sighed

“Yeah, and thank you for healing me” Impulse smiled “we’re very lucky to have you.” he added.

Eventually most of the Boatem members filtered out of the room including Pearl “hey i have to go talk to Scott you’re good to find your way back right?”

“Yep i’m good!” Gem responded. She was left with Impulse and Grian.

“So i heard you’re taking over for me tonight” he started hobbling over to one of the laptops

“Yeah i guess i am” she responded lifting a hand to rub the back of her neck “it’s pretty nerve wracking to be honest” she admitted

“Yeah there’s a reason the media rarely sees me, i hate being in the spotlight” Impulse comforted

“Says the co-owner of one of the cities biggest tech company” Grian pointed out from where he was sitting on his bed writing

“Tango takes care of all the media stuff. Thankfully, I haven't had to do an interview in years” Impulse responded.

“And Gem don’t get nervous you’ll have me Pearl and Scar there plus the syndicate is on standby in case things go too south.” Grian promised

“That is probably one of the safest groups you could be with for a first mission” Impulse added

Gem hummed in response “I should go mentally prepare myself for this” she sighed excusing herself.

Gem couldn’t bring herself to go back to her room, instead she found herself wandering down the long halls, as she was staring at the portraits of former empires and their emperors long dead, she accidentally bumped into a slightly taller woman. “Oh sorry!” she gasped

“Oh don’t worry” the woman responded readjusting the pair of goggles on her head “its really interesting the history of the city and it’s surrounding former empires” she smiled

“Yeah it really is!” Gem responded “i’ve never seen such good photos of them before its always been really blurry black and white ones” she added

“I know! Scott's one lucky man to have such good photos” the woman nodded “i’m False by the way” she introduced

“Dawn” Gem lied hoping False wouldn’t pick up on how she looked very similar to the missing woman who had plagued the news for weeks,

False nodded “have you seen the second rise of the empires yet?”

“Not yet” Gem responded

“They’re just down here” False explained. As they wandered down the hall Falses phone began to ring, she frowned “one sec” she sighed, going around the corner.

“Hey, what's up?” Gem could hear from around the corner, as guilty as she felt for over hearing it she felt the urge to continue. “Yeah i think i found her, she tried convincing me her name was Dawn” there was a pause “Chromia hotel, up in the photo gallery.”

Gem felt her stomach drop, spinning on her heels she quickly took off away from False. As she entered her room she closed the door swiftly, “Gem you okay?” Pearl asked, poking her head around the corner.

“The hero-corp sent someone to look for me they know i’m here and that i’m alive” Gem gasped shaking slightly

Pearl stiffened “i’ll phone Scott he should be able to get whoever it is out. But just in case, be ready to go at a moment's notice.” she explained. Gem nodded going to sit on her bed, Pearl had turned on the news.

“This just in!” the reporter started standing in front of the hotel “the recently reported missing Gemini Tay has been spotted in the Chormia hotel by hero Symmetry. The heroes are currently attempting to locate her and arrest whoever is responsible for kidnapping her.” she explained.

A bright purple flash of light caught her attention as Grian Mumbo and Impulse appeared. “So we’ve been caught?” Grian asked

Gem opened her mouth to respond or apologize only to be cut off by loud knocking. “Hero-corp open the door.” they ordered.

Pearl opened the door, Gem could tell from how her wings bristled she wasn’t going down easy. “I don’t have the missing girl.” she snapped quickly.

“It’s protocol for us to check.” the hero sighed.

“And it’s in my rights to not comply without a warrant.” Pearl responded

“Listen ma’am just let us take a quick glance around and we’ll be out of your hair…” they sighed again clearly impatient.

Pearl slammed the door in response, “you all have your bags ready?”

“Yeah everything's packed,” Mumbo responded.

Someone knocked on the door again. Pearl whipped around her wings flapping, she opened it “i already told-'' she fell silent, a blue glow surrounding her.

“Sorry about that Pearl but being quiet is the best option” a man sighed as the blue glow faded. Peering around the corner it was clear to see it was Boreas. “You’re all here?” he asked

“Yes we’re all here” Pearl responded

“Good let’s go put on your masks, the staff tunnels will be empty” he explained ushering the group out.

Notes:

The Playlist

My Twitter

Chapter 6: Hallway arguments

Running down the halls of the colourful hotel Gem had the feeling something horrible was about to happen. “Stop in the name of the hero-corp!” a painfully familiar voice ordered, Gem couldn’t help but spin around coming face to face with Fwhip and Bookkeeper.

Fwhip froze meeting her eyes, “Gem we need to go now-” Artemis reached out to grab her wrist panicked.

“Gem, what are you doing with them?” Bookkeeper asked glaring between the five villains and the vigilante.

She felt frozen, her brother so close but so far. “I’m sorry about this Fwhip.” was all she could manage before trying to shove the others down the hall.

“Gem wait they’re villains they kill people-” Fwhip started to reason

“Heroes kill people too! You stabbed him!” she gestured to Watcher “the hero's burn down buildings in the poorer parts of the city if you’re ordered to!” her wings bristled in anger

“Gem…” Fwhip took a step towards her only to have Bookkeeper put a hand on his shoulder.

“They’ve corrupted her too far…” he murmured Fwhip backed off slightly

“Lets go.” Gem ordered pushing past everyone. After that it was silent until they reached the maintenance tunnels. Tears made it too blurry to continue down the stairs forcing her to stop before she fell. Apollo who was the closest to her placed a gentle hand on her shoulder shielding her from the rest of the group.

“You are full of surprises Gemini Tay.” he murmured “that's something I've seen very few people manage to pull off”

“Really?” she asked trying to control the fact she was shaking like a leaf

“Well let's see in the face of having a bow that's killed many pointed at your throat you insisted on healing G, you raced into a fire to help Joel, you healed Impulse the other day and you may have just saved us from a very close call. Most people would have begged for death or tried to run by now.” he explained “that makes you one of the strongest people here in my eyes.”

Gem sniffled “thanks Scar” she managed, wiping her eyes. He nodded slightly helping her down the stairs to where everyone was waiting. Pearl hugged her and Gem couldn’t help but melt into her touch.

Grian was on his phone texting someone. He let out a sharp sounding word in another language that Gem felt she had heard before. “⊣∷╎ᔑリ ∷ᒷꖎᔑ ̇/ ℸ ̣ ⍑ᒷ|| ∴𝙹リ'ℸ ̣ ᓵ𝙹ᒲᒷ ╎リ ⍑ᒷ∷ᒷ” Pearl responded to whatever he had said.

“Thats galactic right?” she asked

“Do you speak it?” Grian asked in surprise

“I used to, mother made me learn she said if i can’t get registered then that i could at least get a government job in communications and get registered then” Gem replied “that, enderian, elvish of course”

“Well that’s definitely one way to do it…” Mumbo hummed

“Yeah, I've forgotten most of it by now since it’s been years.” Gem sighed

Grian hummed “okay our get away vehicles are here, we’ll need to spilt into two groups Technos at the far end of the alley leading that way” he pointed towards the closer exit “and Wilburs on that side.”

“K Gem and I should be in the closer vehicle” Impulse suggested

“I’ll go with you two” Mumbo offered

“Right i’ll see you guys at the house” Pearl Grian and Scar left first running down the alley.

“Good luck tonight,” Scott offered “i need to go get these people out of my hotel now” he sighed climbing back up the stairs “pray for me” he jokingly called back.

The three worked quietly through the alley until they came upon a simple farm truck “get in” Techno ordered rolling down the window. Climbing in Gem sat in the front seat sinking into it with a sigh. “You have gotten quite the attention from the media” he sighed adjusting the radio volume slightly.

“Breaking news! Gemini Tay is alive! Boatem seems to be keeping her alive, heroes are baffled as to why, she seems very trusting of them, refusing to leave them when Fwhip and Bookkeeper found her.” a reporter quickly explained

Techno quickly turned off the radio as she tensed up “yeah i didn’t get to say it back there but that was one of the most horrifying things i’ve witnessed” Mumbo piped up

“Gem, can you duck down slightly?” Techno suggested as a pair of officers stopped them. She lowered herself down, hiding her face in her hands.

“Gentlemen, how can I help you today?” Techno asked rolling his window down

“Oh officer Craft! We weren’t expecting you to be in the city today” the one responded

“Yeah well i had to pick up some of dads friends from Oceans Bakery” Techno sighed

“Oh yeah isn’t your bring celebration of Lady Death comin’ up?” the one asked

“Yeah it’s in a couple days” Techno nodded “anyways am i good to go?”

“Technically you shouldn’t but you’re one of us i highly doubt you’re going to be responsible for kidnapping that girl.” the other one shrugged “nice seeing you and your guests.”

Techno sighed “okay you’re good now Gem”

She sat up slowly, confusion clouding her mind “how did they not see me?” she asked

“Magic” Techno responded, waving his hand as the air seemed to shimmer and shift around it “it's a pretty useful power at times” he added “now let's get out of this city.”

Eventually they pulled into a long gravel driveway, trees surrounded everything making it impossible to see. At the end of the driveway sat a large rustic cabin, “this is beautiful” Gem murmured

“I’m glad you like it, it took me a year to build with some buddies” Techno smiled slightly, parking. Phil and Tommy were waiting for them on the porch

“You look like you went through hell Impulse” Tommy called hoping over the fence

“It felt like it too” Impulse responded

“Tommy leave them alone unless you’re planning to help them get settled” Phil sighed

“I am helping them” Tommy responded

“Really?” Techno asked “then take these bags” he dumped Gem and Mumbos bags into his arms. The avian fluttered his small wings walking away

“They go up in the spare room!” Phil called after him “anyways how are you three holding up?” Phil asked ushering them into the living room. On the tv was a low quality video of Gems' argument with Fwhip clearly from a hotel stayer's phone.

Phil quickly caught sight of it and reached to turn it off. “No it’s fine leave it on i want to hear what they’re saying about me” Gem said. “I’m holding up as well as someone can be i guess” she shrugged responding to the question.

“I’ve been better,” Impulse shrugged “i’ve been basically running on pain medication for the past day so i can’t complain much”

“I could heal you again if you wanted” Gem offered

“You save your energy, I'll be fine healing normally” he smiled weakly. There was the sound of tires tearing up the driveway

“Wilbur…” Techno sighed, glancing out the window. Gem poked her head outside to watch the other three Boatem members exit the vehicle. “Stop tearing up my driveway!” Techno yelled at Wilbur

“It’s fine!” he yelled back lifting the bags out of the back “if i destroy it then we’ll have to get a paved one” he added shuffling through the door.

“Thank you for joining us for the three PM news i’m your host Mable Winters and we’re bringing you an exclusive interview from the mayor about Lady Lifes party”

Everyone in the room fell silent watching the tv. “Greetings citizens of Minecraftia, I know many of you are worried with all the villain sightings recently if we will be hosting the yearly party. The answer is yes, but don’t fret, we'll be increasing security and every hero we’re able to spare will be on deck.”

“Well that's both good and bad news for us” Grian sighed

“Yeah it is, but if you forgot as Rens personal bodyguard i get to be in charge of positioning security” Scar pointed out “you tell me what spots you need clear and i will do everything i can to get them clear.”

“I’ve never been so glad you took that job” Mumbo sighed

“I’ll send you a map highlighting spots” Impulse suggested

“This is the final stretch.” Pearl murmured.

***

Night had begun to settle over the countryside when another car pulled up, out of it stepped Niki, “i had a feeling you guys ended up here” she commented as she passed through the living room “Bookkeeper is losing his mind over everything”

“Did you get me any audio recordings?” Tommy asked as he fidgeted with the mask in his hand.

Niki smiled tossing over her phone “send those to yourself then delete them from mine please” she quickly ran up the stairs

“You would think i would be getting used to it considering everything thats happened but it’s still so odd to see heroes and villains living in harmony” Gem murmured straightening herself more as Pearl adjusted the last few details to her outfit

“Don’t worry i still haven’t gotten used to it” Grian comforted “or how easy it is to fake someone's death and reappear a few months later”

“Yeah i’ve seen a lot of that…” Gem nodded

Niki came back wearing a silvery blue dress that almost looked like water “it’s time.” Grian sighed, pulling his mask on.

Scar groaned fidgeting with his work outfit “I wish i wasn’t stuck working this thing” Niki nodded in sympathy

“You and me both” she sighed

“Lets get going then.” Pearl pulled her mask on

“Good luck tonight be careful” Techno waved from the door Mumbo and Impulse next to him.

Gem ended up in the back of Wilburs car in between Grian and Pearl, Phil was in the passenger seat and Wilbur in the driver's seat “buckle up we’re in for a dangerous drive” Grian warned

“So i’ll plant our fire starter in the building, no one’s going to be in there it should be easy” Pearl started

“Can you make sure you burn any of the documents on me?” Grian asked

She nodded before continuing “once I send Tommy the signal he’s going to also plant one, he’ll set his off first. It will be nothing more than a harmless fire to get people out of the building.” she paused as wilbur rounded a corner sharply “once they’re out you enter the scene” she glanced at Gem

“Do I have a script or anything?” Gem asked

“I mean Grian can give you some buzz words if you absolutely need it but I have a feeling you’re already planning this out.” Pearl responded,

Gem sighed “yeah…”

“After you give your spiel”

“With me helping to project your voice” Wilbur cut in

“Yeah, after that I start the fire and we book it.” she finished

“What's the plan for security?” Gem asked

“That's where me and Phil come in, he’s neutralizing them and i’m just being a general nuisance” Grian responded

“The perfect job for you” Phil agreed. Grian turned his head to glare at the taller man

“Alright we’re here” Wilbur parked quickly, the outline of town hall just visible down the street. Going down the alley the four found themselves in the small park behind the museum. Artemis easily broke through into the museum.

As they waited Sun Weaver found herself pacing, her ankle length dress floating around her as she moved more and more. In comparison Watcher was as still as stone besides the slight twitch in his wings and the glow of magic surrounding his hands.

Orpheus was switching between voices so quickly to the point it had begun to confuse her, eventually Eurus placed a hand on his shoulder and he returned back to his normal voice. “Sorry” he murmured, adjusting his mask.

Artemis reappeared “we’re set.” she stated “and the message has been received.”

Sun took a deep breath shaking slightly “the plan is in action.” Eurus announced “people are flooding out of the building, Ren at the center.”

“Deep breath Sun you’re going to tear this web of lies apart.” Artemis smiled.

Taking a deep breath and getting a thumbs up from Orpheus she stepped into view on the front steps of the museum. Her dress seemed to glow in the low light, as she sent a large ball into the sky illuminating her, faces turned to look at her. A few hundred all staring at her with looks of disgust and fear.

Notes:

only a couple new characters this time

Scott aka Boreas - freeze vision & ice manipulation
False aka Symmetry - memory manipulation

The Playlist

My Twitter

Chapter 7: A crack in the glass

“Citizens of Minecraftia, it's a pleasure to finally introduce myself, my name is Sun Weaver. A few months ago I was very much like all of you caught in the giant spider web of just trying to stay alive, but I had that safety net removed after I watched the heroes burn down my home.” she paused scanning the crowd again, “they left me and many others in the poorer parts of the city without homes, without food, without lives! But I'm sure most of you could care less about that, you’re all decently off.” there were murmurs at that “I’m not even pinning this blame on Ren or Bookkeeper. They’re just as caught in this web as all of you, no i’m pinning this on how humans have evolved to think. However there isn’t a way for me or my associates to take my anger out on the evolution of human emotions so we’re at an impasse. It’s either those who all of you look up to apologize and attempt to actually fix the corruption of this city or I do more than talk.”

As she gave Artemis the signal that she was finished, and killed her light the blaze began to creep through the building. As she left she could hear arguments begin from the crowd. Amphitrite raced after her, Sun spun around tensing up as she prepared for something,

“It’s me!” Tommy's voice said as she raised her hands “its me don’t worry” slowly she changed into Theseus “that was was fucking beautiful but let’s get out of here”

The others were waiting just outside the alley on the other side. “Eurus is grabbing the car” Watcher explained

“That was amazing, I can't believe you did that!” Artemis grabbed her hand, bouncing slightly, “are you alright though?” she asked lowering her voice slightly

“Yeah i’m fine-” Sun responded though she knew she was shaking like a leaf.

“They’re back here!” a voice yelled just as Eurus pulled up in a car screeching to a stop

“Get in, we're going on a drive!” he yelled rolling down his window

“Toms, let's go!” Orpheus held open his bag and the blonde quickly shifted into a small cat jumping into the bag. The other five piled into the vehicle in a flurry as Eurus sped down the road away from the heroes.

“Oh my gods-” Gem managed, pulling off her mask, Grian smiled slightly as he glanced over at her.

“Are you okay?” he asked clearly noticing how badly she was shaking

“I’ve been better, public speaking has never been one of my skills” she laughed weakly as the car fell into silence

“Tommy has some candy in the back of that seat Gem if that would help with your nerves” Phil offered

Wilburs bag rustled as Tommy appeared again shifting into human form “child there is not enough room for you to be human in this car!” Wilbur yelped

“Fuck off i’m not a child and if there’s not enough room get out.” Tommy responded “Phil you can’t just offer people my chocolate” he added glaring at him. “But if you give me half the bar you can have it” he added, turning to Gem.

She nodded giving him half “thanks” she murmured, she smiled slightly watching Tommy shuffle around in the seat to fit somewhat comfortably with Wilbur.

Grian was slumped asleep against the other side's window, Pearl leaning against him. Gem leaned against her own window, the chocolate bar in hand. “And we’re back at city hall where the hero-corp history building has been put out finally! We’re just in time for both Thetis and Scar to give us a statement on behalf of their higher ups” the radio host explained

Phil laughed slightly at that turning it up ever so slightly “no we have no idea where they came from. She’s never been seen or even spoken of by the other members.” Scar sighed through the radio responding to a question

“Currently Ren and Bookkeeper are discussing our next move i swear once we have any new we’ll tell you” Thetis added

Gem shifted sitting up. “So Gem, how was that?” he asked “they’re all asleep so don’t worry about them over hearing” he added glancing back in his mirror

“That was one of the scariest things i’ve ever done, i see why Impulse and Mumbo stay out of the public eye now” she responded

“Ah i remember my first public stint like that they’re always scary” he responded “don’t stress over it you’ve got five of the most reliable villains in the city watching over you” he added

“I’ve had to heal two of them in alleys already” Gem pointed out

“Fair point… but that's not normal usually” he responded, chuckling. His phone began to ring and he answered, it was connected to the car and went into speaker mode “hey Tech what's up?” he asked

“Hey Phil uhm bad news the cops are combing the streets” he responded “they’re looking for the car”

“Shit, uh hold on. Gem, can you wake them?” he asked she nodded shaking them until they woke up “k' everyones up explain what happened” Phil ordered

“Some officers popped by and asked if we’d seen a car that perfectly matched a description of Wils” Techno explained

“So what do we do? If we pull in we’ll give it away” Tommy pointed out.

“We’re almost at the ranch, Jimmy and Tango never even let them on the property” Grian suggested “i’ll text Tim really quick” he added

“Okay go there i’ll keep an eye on the road and come pick you guys up after it’s clear we’ll change out the car” Techno sighed, hanging up.

“K we’ve a go ahead from Timmy it’s just this driveway up here” Grian explained pointing at a lone house surrounded by fields,

Phil slowly drove up the long driveway. Two silhouettes stood in the light of the house one winged the other glowing with fire. Phil parked and everyone piled out of the car. “Well well well” Jimmy sighed “let’s get inside considering your current outfits” he gestured to them.

Following everyone inside Gem wasn’t surprised to see her speech playing “they’re trying to analyze every little detail about you to figure you who you are” the blaze born explained “oh right i’m Tango by the way or Pyre i guess if we’re being professional” he smiled slightly holding out a hand

“Gem or as the tv is clearly announcing Sun Weaver” she responded taking it “this place is pretty cool!” she added looking around, the walls were lined with photos of people

“You think so? It’s an old passion project me and Jimmy had back when we were still with the double life branch” he explained picking up one of the oldest photos fourteen people stood smiling at the camera “that was both our third branch in the system and we were both getting sick of it”

Gem scanned the three photos and a few familiar faces like Grian and Scar popped up. “And besides most of the people we had been with since we started were moving on to other things too, Grian and Pearl went to study skulk Scott opened the Chromia hotel and really most people just wanted out of the hero system or to become actual heroes” he sighed “so we moved”

“And your both villains on the side” she added

“Yep plus i work with Impulse so really i moved out of the heroes and became a real person” he smiled putting the photo down.

“Hey Gem, did you bring any civ clothes?” Pearl asked

“No, was I supposed to?” Gem asked

“It’s not really a rule but most people carry an extra outfit for scenarios like this” she answered “just a good habit to get into”

“Got it i’ll keep that in mind” she nodded

“I think Lizzie has some old spare clothes she's been trying to get rid of up in the spare room” Jimmy called around the corner

Tango nodded, “do you know where the spare room is?” he asked Pearl

She gave a small nod “third door to the right” Tango gave her a thumbs up “cool let’s go get you some clothes”

Gem followed her up the stairs into a spare room a few bags sat on the bed with a small sign next to it “I need to get rid of these if you find someone who needs them go ahead - Liz” it stated

Pearl pried open the bag “there’s some nice stuff in here” she noted she hummed rummaging through the bag of clothes “there!” she pulled out a shorter yellow sundress,

“Thats pretty” Gem smiled taking it. After changing she made her way back downstairs everyone was sitting talking quietly, they seemed tense. The TV was on.

“The police and heroes have strong reason to believe that the new villain Sun Weaver is Gemini Tay. They’re placing basically a bounty on their head, they want her alive.” the reporter explained as the camera panned to Niki and Scar looking grim.

“Oh…” she managed, feeling her stomach drop.

“We have to kill off Gem” Grian sighed

“What?” Gem gasped turning to look at him

“He means we have to kill off Gem so that one they get off your back and two Sun Weaver doesn’t have a target on their back due to having a bounty for Gem” Pearl tried to explain only getting a confused glance

“They mean if we fake kill you Gem then you’ll be able to safely be Sun Weaver and not have the heroes gunning to catch you.” Mumbo finally explained in words she could get.

“Okay… so how do we kill me?” she asked

“With some shapeshifting help” Tommy responded shifting into her

“Do I get to do some voice acting?” Wil asked perking up

“Gem if we did this we’d have to change how you look, since you’re now dead, you’d also need a fake name”

“Right” she nodded “when do i die then?” she asked

“We have to do it before the media coverage dies down” Impulse pointed out “and somehow project it so they see”

“But you also need a spot they won’t be able to track you back to.” Tango added “what about near the old willows by the creek?” he suggested

“No, the willows are too notable for groups that come here.” Jimmy responded “but the woods could work” he added

“Then tonight i die” Gem stated.

Notes:

Jimmy aka Canary - sound manipulation
Tango aka Pyre - pyrokinesis

 

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Chapter 8: Fake deaths and trials

Notes:

i got really motivated to write recently, so have a chapter much sooner then expected

this is the last chapter before everything goes to hell for a bit btw

Gem was back in her Sun Weaver outfit; they had dragged a chair down to the creek and Tommy was sitting in it poorly tied up. Mumbo was making a few last minute checks around with the camera, Impulse was on speaker phone confirming yet again that the video couldn’t be tracked back there.

“Okay we’re ready.” he sighed, finally putting the phone down Tommy whenever you’re ready” he added Tommy shifted into her a perfect mirror. “Rolling.” he whispered

Sun Weaver stepped into frame “so quick to jump to conclusions, to try and rationalize everything, to try and deflect attention so quickly.” she sighed, staring into the camera “is this enough proof for your feeble blindfolded eyes?” she asked.

She took a step back so she was next to Tommy “i was really hoping it wouldn't come to this…” she sighed, taking out the knife Grian had given her. “She was given a very simple mission, to return to the heroes and become a spy. Unfortunately she’s too blindly loyal which makes her weak.” Sun Weaver tsked placing the blade against Tommys throat. He leaned away trying to squirm away.

Gem watched Phil stiffen behind the camera “do you have anything you’d like to say to them?” Sun Weaver asked removing the tape over his mouth. “Any final poetic words?”

“You’ll never get away with this my brother will catch you one day” her voice echoed back at her as Wilbur stated the line they had been practicing

Sun Weaver sighed signaling to Techno to create the illusion as she fake plunged the dagger into Tommys stomach. The plastic hit him harmlessly but to anyone outside the illusion Gem currently had a knife deep in her gut. She turned to the cameras nodding.

“Jesus christ that was horrifying” Tommy huffed slumping in his chair, he morphed back into himself. “You are terrifying-” he added as she struggled to cut the ropes.

“Welcome to the legally dead club” Grian grinned wrapping a wing around her “it’s you me Mumbo and Pearl at the moment but i would not be surprised it Scar mysteriously died one of these days” he added

“Everyone be quiet the news is talking” Tango placed his phone so everyone could see it.

“Breaking news! We’ve just got a devastating update to the case of Gemini Tay. A few minutes ago the villain group of Boatem hacked into multiple broadcast sites and streamed the killing of Gemini Tay. Her killer, the newest member Sun Weaver, any words from her brother or other heroes has not been publicly announced yet.” the new reporter explained.

“Will they throw me a funeral?” she asked

“Maybe, you were probably known enough that the mayor would pay for something decent” Grian responded “and if that happens we’ll go visit it”

***

A month had passed since Gem had died. In that time the Boatem members had managed to find another apartment building and had set up there. For a while Gem went on missions with the others until too close of a call for comfort happened and she had decided to stay back at the base until she was done training completely.

Pearl and Scar arrived in the hotel looking cold “okay it’s time to pull out the winter uniforms” Pearl huffed rubbing her hands together

“There’s winter uniforms?” Gem asked

“Yeah usually winters pretty good for us so i made uniforms meant to bare the cold so no one would freeze” Pearl explained

“Really? I wouldn’t expect it to be better in the winter” Gem hummed

“Yeah! Heroes don’t like sending a ton of patrols out when its cold so they tend to leave all the districts minus the super rich areas, which they can get away with since most villains and vigilantes tend to slow down in the winter” Pearl answered “besides us it’s really only the few mountain elves like Boreas or those with powers that keep them warm”

“Hey if there’s less heroes patrolling then maybe i can help out, you won’t even need to make me a new outfit i can keep myself warm.”

“Gem, I'd still make you another outfit. I'm not letting you run around in a sleeveless dress.” Pearl sighed “but we can definitely discuss you doing patrols again if you’re feeling up to it.” she paused “is your light really that warm?”

“No it’s not that warm, but my family was weird. Honestly my entire village was, we used to move between the higher cliffs in the spring and summer and then down into a valley for the winter, but I got used to the cold.” Gem explained

“Well then, your first mission will be with Grian tomorrow then” Pearl responded “now i’m going to go warm up” she added leaving.

***

The night air chilled Sun Weaver as she followed Watcher from rooftop to rooftop. Artemis hadn’t had enough time to create an entirely new outfit for her so she had chosen to wear a thin sweater over the dress. “Sun, Watcher you’re coming up on our location, take caution” Hades voice echoed through the small earpiece “remember we’re just trying to spook the heroes no fighting.” he added

“Yeah yeah yeah, don’t start any fights just get the money and go” Watcher responded stretching his wings

“Why do we do this anyways?” Sun asked tossing a rubber ball sized light orb between her hands

“Well for you to see how you react but mostly it’s so we can draw the attention of them away from home base” he explained adjusting his mask “just relax we’re only taking some money,” he added

“Why them?” Sun asked making him pause

“They send money towards anti power associations and have a tendency to be really harsh towards unregistered people and have gotten more than a few thrown in the lily system” he explained, before speaking to Hades over his earpiece

Sun fluttered her wings slightly, the lily system horrified her, it was what her mother and later the heroes had used to keep her from running off. “Okay well you sold me.” she sighed as she straightened her wings

Watcher nodded “Hades we’re good to go whenever you give us the okay” he stated

“Alright you two are good to go” Hades responded.

Watcher leapt down from the roof Sun Weaver on his heels, a single guard stood in front of the building, they were quickly taken down leaving the pair easily able to get into the bank. “Boatem!” a guard gasped, raising their gun.

Watcher chucked a small dagger at them causing them to flinch away. Sun turned quickly casting a blinding wall of light behind them making it difficult for the guards to see, still going as fast as she could she wrapped a second guard in a light web.

As the light wall began to fall Watcher grabbed the final guard quickly zip tying their hands together “there we go” he smiled, an almost silent alarm seemed to scream at them causing him to frown. “Damn it they managed to pull the alarm” he sighed. A phone began to ring.

Sun Weaver grabbed it walking over to the nearest conscious guard. “Tell them it’s a false alarm.” she ordered holding the phone closer to the guard, the dagger that had been up her sleeve sliding into her hand.

“Sorry about pulling the alarm-” the guard started glancing at the dagger “Steve saw a weirdo circling the building, it was just a rando” he explained trying not to stutter “no it's just a false alarm just high nerves with all the reports of Boatem around… yes of course sorry sir.” he nodded and Sun hung up

“Good. That's that taken care of, let's go.” she signaled to Watcher to lead the way. They entered a vault and Sun couldn’t help but be drawn to a small pile of jewels and necklaces in the corner “whats this?” she asked picking up a small sun and moon pair of necklaces

“Knowing this place probably a former customers possession, they tend to take them as bribes to not turn in an unregistered” Watcher explained as he stuffed some more money into the bag, he paused glancing over the pile “it's really sad, all of these important things that once belonged to people now stuck in in a vault.” his wings drooped slightly

The sound of glass shattering made Sun Weaver chirp in panic. Watcher placed a hand over her mouth signaling for silence. “This is the hero-corp if you come out with your hands up then we can all avoid a fight!” Zephyrus called from the front room.

Watcher seemed to deflate as he pointed towards the exit sign hanging above the vault. He shook his head, they were stuck. “Fight?” she whispered

“Hades is going to kill us,” Watcher responded. He took a deep breath, “okay here’s the plan” he quickly explained a plan as the sound of footsteps got closer.

“Final warning come out of prepare to fight.” Zephyrus warned he sounded just outside the door. Watcher ducked behind a table leaving Sun Weaver standing in the center of the room. As Zephyrus came around the corner his eyes widened, “you.”

“The one and only” she bowed slightly “sorry to drag you out here it’s such a cool night isn’t it?” she asked.

His dog like ears folded angrily “there’s quite a bounty on your head after you killed Gem” he began to try and circle around her

“Mmm that weak girl was too loyal to the heroes, we tried but you were so insistent we were the same people.” she sighed circling away from Zeph.

“Fwhip wants you dead.” he responded “they all do.”

“Ah because staining their hands with my blood makes them so just” she sighed

Zephyrus huffed, launching himself at her “maybe i’ll drag you back kicking and screaming.” he threatened shifting into a wolf. Sun quickly leapt away creating a light woven net and throwing it at him.

“Now!” she yelled, Watcher leapt up throwing himself at Zephyrus and tackling the wolf to the ground. He shifted again, launching Watcher away from him.

“Let's go!” Watcher grabbed her hand, dragging her out of the building and onto a nearby rooftop. Sun felt sick, her legs shaking “hey Hades we may or may not have broken the no fighting rule slightly” Watcher explained between gasps.

“What did you do?” Hades asked sounding disappointed

“Zephyrus cornered us and it was the only way out” Sun Weaver explained “we need to get moving” she added to Watcher off the comms.

“Right, are you two on the run now?” Hades asked

“No we’re headed back towards the car though, no ones following us” Watcher responded the purple glow of his powers lighting the dark side roads and alleys they went down.

Sun couldn’t help but feel like she was floating, glancing back at Watching she quickly realised they were floating. “Well now the pair you would expect to catch running down an alley” a voice hummed. Sun Weaver created a small ball of light so that they could see a shadowy figure stood just out of view,

“You’re new” Watcher tilted his head slightly.

“New enough,” they shrugged. “So what are two of the biggest villains of the city doing running through the side roads?”

“What's a random vigilante doing in the allays waiting to catch people” Sun shot back

“Exactly that, the heroes wouldn’t accept me so I'm doing it myself. Now they’ll have to accept me.” she responded, stepping closer.

Sun couldn’t help but feel a twinge of empathy for that, “the heroes really aren’t that worth it trust me” Watcher responded, “a bunch of stuck up rule bending bullies”

“Yeah, they’re just as bad as the villains.” she agreed

“What would you know?” the vigilante asked

“I lived with the heroes for years” Sun responded

“I was one” Watcher also answered

“You were?” Sun and the vigilante asked in unison

“Sun Weaver Watcher, your trackers have stopped moving, is everything okay?” Hades asked through the ear piece

“If you don’t respond i’ll let you go-” the vigilante stated. Watcher lowered his hand cautiously. They let out a sigh “I'm Celeste by the way.” he added letting them down

“Oh I've heard about you before! I remember some of the older heroes debating whether or not to accept you which clearly…”

Celeste seemed to stiffen “that makes a lot of sense actually” she hummed. The sound of footsteps coming closer made Watcher curse quietly he cast out his powers again

“Zephyrus and Eir? I think” he sighed “they’re getting closer”

“I can get you out of here if you can hide me” Celeste bargained “please i need a place to hide”

Sun and Watcher exchanged a glance -or as close to a glance as you could get through the masks- “okay lead the way.” Watcher responded eventually. The vigilante seemed to shrink slightly before quickly leading the two down a long winding path

“Where did you park?” they asked

“Uh Acacia Meadows road” Sun responded “an old beaten up truck” she added. Eventually Celeste led them out onto the road again right near the truck. Watcher quickly fumbled the keys out of his pocket and they hopped in.

Out of breath Sun sat gasping for air in the passenger seat. Watcher took off his mask, throwing it into the seat divider, he dialed in Hades phone number and put it on speaker. “Why didn’t you respond to your earpiece?” Hades asked immediately

“We met a new friend, a vigilante named Celeste, he got us away from some heroes and now they’re coming back here with us” Grian responded

Gem removed her mask turning back to Celeste, “do you have an actual name?” she asked

“Yeah i do, Snifferish or Sniff for short” she responded carefully removing their own mask Gem nodded

“Nice to meet you Sniff, why are you running?” Grian asked glancing back through the mirror

“Well after the heroes decided that they didn’t need my power set i got annoyed and ended up losing my temper, and you know how powers tend to become destructive when met with strong emotions?” the pair nodded in response “well they got the better of me and i may have nearly launched someone out a window…”

“Who?” Grian asked

“Zephyrus…” Sniff responded

“Well i can’t say he didn’t have that coming” he responded as they pulled into the underground parking lot under their building. “Well welcome to base” he added parking “Mumbo will probably explain more of the details but for now i’ll try and find out which rooms are available” he added leading the way into the elevator.

The elevator stopped on the main floor to reveal Lizzie, a hoodie being the only thing hiding her hero outfit. Sniff flinched trying to hide behind Gem, she raised her wings protectively just out of instincts. “Oh if i’m scaring you i can wait” Lizzie offered backing up slightly

“No no it’s fine” Sniff managed “sorry just got away from the heroes i wasn’t expecting to run into one here.” she apologized forcing herself to relax. Lizzie stepped into the elevator trying to stay as far away from Sniff as she could.

Notes:

one new person this time

Sniff aka Celeste - telekinesis

 

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Chapter 9: Snow to Stone

Three months passed in a blur, and by now snow had begun to fall on the city almost weekly which left Gem feeling alone, all she could think of was her childhood home so far away. She sat perched on the roof of the building watching cars snake by below her feet dangling over the edge.

The sound of the door opening made her glance back Scott stepped onto the snow covered roof “you’re quite far from your part of the city” Gem called back

“There’s better views out here and they don’t try and get rid of all the snow right away” he responded shrugging “can i sit here?” he added pointing at the spot next to her.

She nodded “you’re a mountain elf right? What's that like?” she asked

He sat down after wiping some of the snow away, “i can’t believe it would be much more different from your experience as a plain elf besides the fact i lived much higher in the mountains” he shrugged “you’re from Crystal Cliffs area right?”

“Yeah, my family traveled between Crystal Cliffs and Dawn” she responded “do you miss your home?” she asked

“Yeah I miss Rivendell every day I'm here, I miss my parents and my brother but I wasn't prepared to take on all the responsibilities that came with being in charge.” he answered with a sigh “Xornoth was ready for everything but he wouldn’t become leader unless i left so it’s for the best, i still see them sometimes. Do you have any family?”

“Nope it’s just me and Fwhip our mom died when we were still pretty young and no one in the village wanted to care for two half breeds so they sent us to a city home” Gem explained fidgeting with her dress helm “i can’t blame them though, the dangers that would have come from having two half breeds with powers was too much to put on a small village” she added leaning back and placing her hand on a small pile of snow

“It’s a shame you grew up so far away Rivendell has always been really good for making sure power holding half breeds aren’t sent to Lily” Scott said sympathetically

“Rivendell has half breeds? I always thought you were known as a pure place” Gem tilted her head slightly

Scott laughed “oh half breeds are very common in fact i’m one, i just choose to hide my wings”

“You have wings, can I see them?” Gem asked turning so she was facing him better

“If you swear not to tell a single soul then yes” she nodded in response and Scott stood up “i haven’t actually shown anyone my wings in years” he laughed nervously as he took a deep breath, slowly a pair of white messy patchy wings emerged. “I really need to preen them more…” he added looking embarrassed

“They’re beautiful,” Gem gasped. “Can I help you preen them? I’ve never gotten to actually preen another person's wings before”

“Sure you can help, honestly i should call Jimmy normally he’s the one who helps me” Scott added pulling out his phone. The pair sat down and Gem began to gently pull the old feathers away revealing cleaner sleek feathers

“So if you don’t mind me asking who all knows about your wings?” she asked

“Jimmy, Pearl, you, my family and most of Rivendell and a couple of old friends” he answered. The sound of footsteps racing up the stairs drew their attention to the door as Jimmy and Pearl burst onto the roof looking out of breath.

“You weren’t going to tell me you had your wings out for once?” Pearl called, bounding across the snowy roof and nearly slipping. Scott saved her by freezing her midair

Jimmy followed more slowly, being cautious of the icy patches. “Sorry she read over my shoulder” he apologised

“Why are you two up on the roof anyways?” Pearl asked brushing the snow off

“I was missing home again” Gem responded, glancing down at the feathers in her hand. “The snow always makes me nostalgic”

“If you wanted we could go to the mountains” she offered sitting down next to Scott

“Really?” Gem asked doubtfully

“Yeah we could go to Rivendell and meet the rest of the Smajors or we could go to Crystal Cliffs or anywhere else” Pearl promised

“Can we go inside i’m going to freeze” Jimmy asked

“You’re breaking the moment cod boy” Scott responded throwing a ball of snow at him.

Jimmy responded by throwing one back he glared at Scott, Gem laughed softly watching as Scott jumped up “yeah you’re not special i can throw snow too” Jimmy taunted

“Alright Jim lets tango then” Scott raised his hands snow lifting off the ground around him.

“You wouldn’t.” Jimmy shot back spreading his wings

Pearl rolled her eyes making a small ball of snow and throwing it at Scotts back “don’t dump that on Jimmy” she called

Scott turned, fixing her with a glare before quickly glancing at Gem. She smiled nodding as she carefully made a large snowball. Scott gave a small nod before spinning around to face Jimmy again. Gem threw her snowball at Pearl hitting her right in the chest

“Gem!” the owl winged elytrian leapt up shaking snow off “oh just you wait i’m going to make sure you’re stuck on office duties for a month no more patrols!” she turned towards the door like she was going to leave.

Then the door burst open. Three armed guards barged onto the roof all heavily armed, Pearl stopped quickly backing up towards them. “Minecraftia police force! No funny business and this will go much easier!” one of them yelled, raising his gun so it was raised at Pearl's head.

A terrified twitter escaped Gem as Scott grabbed her wrist pulling her closer “run.” He whispered quickly “get to the hotel tell whoevers working the front desk for a key to room 279 say i gave you it.” he quickly explained

“What about you?” Gem asked weakly

“They’re not after us, they're after Boatem run Gem.” he ordered pushing her towards the edge

“Hey! You don’t take another step or i’ll shoot!” an officer yelled towards her, taking a shaky breath she plunged off the building towards the ground below.

“Oh thank you sun for my wings” she gasped, spreading them just before she hit the ground. She’d never flown that far so she could only hope she’d make it to the Chromia hotel.

***

Her wings ached as she landed, she looked out of place compared to the fancy people coming and going in her soaked snow dress and frazzled wings. As she approached the front desk she felt a wave of nausea hit her. “Can i help you?” the front desk worker asked looking confused

“I need a key to room 279. Scott said to ask for it.” she responded

“That rooms off limits.” the staff member responded, turning to go help someone else.

“Listen.” Gem slapped the desk “I've just spent the past hour trying to fly across the city to get here for my safety so give me the sun forsaken key.” she glared at the employee who was staring back nervously

“Of- of course ma’am my apologies-” the staff quickly handed her a keycard. Gem sighed, taking it and heading towards the elevator. Alone she took off her gloves to see her hands glowing golden

“It's getting worse,” she noted, pulling them higher just to be safe. The door opened and a woman stood in front of her

“Are you who was asking for Scotts room?” she asked

“Yeah why?” Gem studied her

“Well it’s hidden so you would have just ended up wandering here for a while,” she explained “i’m one of the few staff members who knows where it is” she added leading Gem down to a bookcase. “Your keycard needs to be scanned here” she explained, sliding her own between two books.

Gem copied her and watched at the bookcase slid away to reveal a room, maps and diagrams lined the walls. “Thank you…” she paused hoping the staff member would say her name

“Oh, Bek” she responded “and it’s no big deal the gossip about Scott getting arrested along with Boatem is already spreading so i had a somewhat decent idea”

“Yeah… gossip spreads to fast in this city” Gem groaned

“Do you need anything? Some tea or food or i could maybe find you a change of clothes”

“Honestly I just really want to think but thank you” Gem smiled weakly at Bek as she left.

Walking farther into the room it really didn’t take long to realise the diagrams were detailed maps of the main three lily buildings and the prison. “What have you been planning, Scott?” she asked the empty room, messy handwritten notes covered the maps describing possible ways in and out. One name seemed to stick out on most of the notes, Owen.

***

The power neutralizer seemed to send a stinging feeling up Pearl's arm the entire trip, she had been thrown into the back of a van with the other four members of Boatem. Eventually the doors were opened and she was ripped out and dragged into an interrogation room.

“What's your name ma’am?” the officer in front of her asked once they had her seated. She remained silent, glaring at him. “Listen Artemis, if you'd just cooperate, maybe we can make a deal and just get you sent to Lily instead.” he sighed

“Honestly prison sounds better.” she responded coldly

“So you’re afraid of Lily?” he asked

She laughed “that sentence makes it so clear you lived a privileged enough life to be registered as soon as your powers developed. No, I'm not afraid of the Lily System, I've gone through it before it holds nothing over me.”

“Really? You know it’s quite rare for someone to manage to get out of the Lily System without a hefty bribe, so do you want to start there, Pearlescent? And once you’re done we’ll see what they want done.”

Notes:

well thats a fun chapter :D

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Chapter 10: First Plans

Notes:

10 chapters posted of this shit idk how we got here

Gem didn’t remember falling asleep in the room but she couldn’t say she was surprised, what she was surprised about was waking up to see Scott struggling to carry a pile of scrolls into the room Bek following with more

“You’re okay?” Gem asked hopefully “then are they…” the grim look on his face answered everything.

“We’ll get them out don’t worry Gem” he promised “i’ve been planning to get into these buildings for years this is just an excuse for me to go faster.”

Gem stood up and came to stand next to them. Scott had put the scrolls down on a messy pile next to the map, “so where do we start?” she asked

***

Grian stayed silent, refusing to even look at the officer in front of him. It had been hours with nothing, his bound wings had begun to ache from the uncomfortable angle they were at.

“Grian Craft, former skulk scientist, former hero-corp worker and finally former hero known as Icarus.” the officer listed “does any of that ring a bell?”

“Nope never heard the name Grian it sounds stupid.” he responded giving the officer a side glance

“Right… then does Xelqua mean anything?” they pushed

That made him flinch slightly. “You and Mr Goodtimes tend to be the main killers next to Mr Jumbo, always leaving your signature purple staining on the bodies. There’s a lot that doesn’t add up in your files” they sighed

“You were born powerless, it should have been impossible for you to have them. But yet somehow you have them you were also born wingless but yet somehow you now have them.”

The officer placed down an old childhood photo of him and Phil with their parents, his father was an elytrian with massive raven black wings Phil had taken after him and been born with wings his mother on the other hand was a human and he had taken after her. “You wouldn’t believe me if I did explain where my wings came from.” he finally sighed

“Well, there’s two options for how you go forward, either we send you to wither rose or you’re sent to a high security lily building and they figure out how you work.”

***

“Breaking news after a raid on an apartment building late last night the police have finally revealed they’ve caught five out of six members of Boatem! Their identities are yet to be revealed but we’ll be updating you live” the news woman explained, Gem had been scanning through the feed since yesterday searching for anything that would tell them where everyone was.

“Pause here” Bek ordered. Gem paused and it resumed a normal speed,

“After another six ours we’re bringing another update on the caught Boatem members, police have given permission to show the mugshots and information of them which should be on screen now”

On the screen appeared all five of them, their names and powers listed underneath “they did not do them justice with those photos” Scott murmured

“But we know that they’re all alive and not beaten up yet” Gem pointed out,

“And we know where they’ll be in the facility” Scott added “lets see…” he moved the five figurines into the latest map, Mumbo and Scars sat in the MM unit Pearls was in the lily building, and finally Grian and Impulse in the power unit.

“Who does the other figurine represent?” Gem asked, looking at the orange one in the center of the Lily building

“Would that be for-”

“For Owen. He’s what's powering the prison. We need him out.” Gem nodded

“Okay so-” she was cut off by someone knocking on the bookcase door.

Bek stood up and made her way to the door, cautiously she opened it, “Eloise what are you doing here?” she asked

“Uhm well i had some guests show up and demand i take them to Scott” the new person explained

Scott stood up cautiously taking a thick book with him, he nodded at Bek and she opened the door to reveal the syndicate. “You did not need to kidnap a hero for this” he sighed

“If you weren’t so secretive about this place then we wouldn’t have to” Phil responded

El handed over another map “there’s only been a few minor changes but better safe than sorry” she explained.

“Don’t touch anything Tommy.” Scott warned as he led the group back to the table and unrolled the new map.

“So whats the plan?” Techno asked leaning over the table,

“Well it’s simple.” Scott started

***

 

It was loud as Scar and Mumbo were led down the hall, “hall shift” one of the officers groaned as the wall in front of them moved. Scar exchanged a glance with Mumbo in confusion, “you stay here with them i’ll go see which way now”

The officer they were left with looked young, almost too young to be working in such a high security place, he seemed to tremble slightly. “What's a hall shift?” he asked casually trying to distract the officer from his fiddling with his hand cuffs.

“The walls are moving” the officer responded like it was obvious “you’ll get used to it on your long stay here.”

“Mm right…” Scar nodded as the cuff fell off his wrist “well this has been fun Mumbo lets go” He grabbed the taller mans shoulder dragging him down the hall,

“Hey! Security breach!” the officer yelled into his walkie talkie. Scar dragged Mumbo up a flight of stairs and into a supply closet, making quick work of his hand cuffs

“And once again the assassin training comes in handy” he grinned “now how do we get out?”

“I don’t know as you saw the walls move it could be anywhere” Mumbo responded pushing his hair out of his eyes. Alarms had started when they were talking and only seemed to get louder wailing.

“Okay well lets at least try-” Scar started as the door burst open. Two armed guards held them at gunpoint

Scar groaned, picking up a broom from behind him. “Mr Goodtimes, I'd advise you to put the broom down.” Martyn sighed, stepping in front of the guards.

Begrudgingly Scar put the broom down again glaring at the half enderian. “I’ll take them to their cells, don't worry,” Martyn added once they were handcuffed, dragging them after him. “Idiots both of you.” he huffed once they were out of ear shot.

“Well what did you want us to do?” Scar retorted

“They’re working on a plan you just have to sit tight” Martyn explained “and Dawn is okay she’s safe with Scott” he added.

As the doors to a pair of cells opened Martyn gave him a gentle push into the cell.

Notes:

i should really quickly explain, Martyn works at the prison to get some government people off his back after he accidentally created an explosion, he actually helps smuggle the ever changing prison blueprints to Eloise who then gets them to Scott it's a minor system i made up in the background

 

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Chapter 11: New Buds

Notes:

also i realise i've done a really shit job of explaining the lily system so here's a better explanation

basically a prison meant for people with unregistered powers. It's a chain of small very heavily guarded buildings across Minecraftia where scientists will try and learn more about power holders that are considered too lowly to live a life.

Since the government is also responsible for the Outsiders Program (a program where they will kidnap people wipe their memory completely and return them to the city to see what happens) many of the subjects in the OP end up inside the lily system due to being unregistered and not even able to attempt to defend themselves.

Two weeks had passed since the raid, Gem had finally been able to return back to the apartment, and almost every night she was talking to Scott on how to get them out, most of the plans so far had ended in nothing but scrapped piles of paper on the floor.

The only thing for sure is she had to be with Scott when he freed Owen. “You’ll probably want Gem with you when you free Owen” Eloise commented

“Whys that?” Scott has asked

“The reality bender they have with him is named Krow its other power is shadow manipulation” she explained

“So we’d end up cancelling each other out if it did come to a fight” Gem nodded

“But wouldn’t my power neutralizing fix that?” Phil pointed out

“Phil try and use your power on me” Gem suggested. He obliged and she could feel his power almost like a blanket around her. She was still able to form a ball of light, albeit weaker than normal. “It will be able to still make something.”

A knock at the door broke her thinking, cautiously she peeked through the peephole, Joel stood on the opposite side, she carefully opened it. “I want to help” he said as soon as it was open

She hushed him quickly “come in i’d rather not discuss this in the hall” she suggested. He followed her into the small apartment. “Do you want tea or something?” she asked as they sat down across from each other

“No i’m alright thanks” he smiled weakly “now i want to help get them out, i owe it to them”

“Joel i’m not even the one in charge, i’d love your help but Scotts the one doing all the planning and i don’t-” she cut herself off with a yawn

“Scott… like Scott Smajor?” he asked, she nodded in response “okay i’ll talk to Scott, but Gem if you need a break feel free to stop by mine and Lizzies, get some food or just chat” he offered handing over a small container of soup. “We had a lot of that left over so she made me bring some,” he added, getting up.

“Thanks, i’ll come over one of these days” she promised watching him leave. She stared at the soup, her appetite dying as she stared into it. She placed it down instead choosing to pick up her phone and dialed an old phone number.

“Hello?” asked a groggy Fwhip,

“Hey it’s been a while” she started tensing up

“Gem! You’re still alive? But how i watched that witch kill you-”

“Listen. No one’s going to believe you if you tell them about this, you probably won’t in a few hours” she cut off his rambling “when dawn strikes in a week's time, meet me by that giant old willow tree we used to talk at okay? I’ll try and explain everything there”

“This isn’t a trap, they're not using your phone and your voice right?” Fwhip asked

“That hero paranoia really got to you” she tsked “they’re honorable enough people to not do that i swear on the sun i will be there alone” a shiver ran up her spin as she said that

Fwhip was silent “you swore on the sun if… if this is a trap then you’ll be hurting yourself-”

“Then i’m not lying Fwhip. We saw what happened last time someone broke their promise.” Gem finished hanging up.

***

“So we’ve figured out a final plan.” Scott started “so here’s how this is going to go…” he quickly explained the plan, “any questions?”

“Yeah one, won’t all of us being in the prison put us at risk with all the guards?” Gem asked

“Thats where Joel and Lizzie come in,” Scott gestured to the pair.

“With an open market to be the next big villain i’m going to do something to earn me that role” Joel explained sarcastically

“Or try anyways until i get there with some officers” Lizzie added punching his shoulder lightly

“that gets rid of a good chunk of the officers they have patrolling but what about the rest?”

“Wil, Tech what was your idea?” Scott asked

“We were going to lead a group to do some light rule breaking.” Wil explained

“Yeah light,” Techno nodded, “that will get the rest of them away from the building.”

“And we’re ready to go in two days.” Scott finished, if his wings had been out they would have fluttered in joy,

Gem stiffened slightly, the day after her meeting with Fwhip. “Lets get them home.” she nodded

***

“Stop here.” the guard ordered, Pearl paused, they were outside what everyone deemed as the maze door. A scientist stepped out

“Oh you must be Pearlescent!” she smiled “i’m Doctor Cleo” she introduced herself “i’ll take her from her don’t worry” she added to the guards “now i heard you have quite the unique power set,”

“I guess… sleep related powers aren’t super common” she shrugged following the doctor into the normally off limits room.

The doctor hummed in response “now before we go any farther let me explain some stuff. So, you know what the lily system is”

“It’s where people like you run tests to figure out where powers come from”

“Exactly normally we’d use you for one of the many experiments to see why we developed powers. I’m sure you remember those from when you were younger.”

Pearl flinched slightly, taking a step back “then this isn’t one of the normal tests?”

Cleo smiled “as you know the prison is connected to the building,” Pearl nodded “and i’m sure in your years of villain hood you’ve heard of how the prison seems to move, well that's true it does move.”

She turned on a light, the room in front of them held two beds. In one laid a man hooked up to a system of wires in the other bed sat a demon. It glanced up at the glass flipping them off before laying its head down again. “This is Owen or Maze and Krow.” she gestured to the pair, “Subject Maze powers our moving prison with his unique powers of subconscious wall building.” she gestured to the sleeping man “and Krow is a reality bender who keeps his docile enough to power it.” she finished.

“Why bring me here?” Pearl took a step back,

“Well it’s simple your powers are perfect for keeping Maze at bay between you and it you would be able to power the prison and maybe get a few years off your friends sentences”

“No.” Pearl backed up until she was against a wall “you’re not draining my powers for this.”

“Pity i was hoping you’d be more cooperative…” the doctor sighed. A slight teal glow surrounded her hands and within seconds Pearl felt as limp as a puppet on a string. “Enjoy your stay” she added as Pearl landed in the cell.

“You’re new” the demon croaked, glancing up “what are your powers?” it asked

“Sleep and dream manipulation” Pearl responded standing up.

“That makes sense” Krow nodded “well welcome to hell,”

Pearl couldn’t help but allow her powers to tether onto Owen, it seemed like an empty maze in his dream. “Krow you can allow Maze to wake up” a voice over the intercom stated. It seemed to slump in relief

“Get comfortable, it'll be a while.”

Notes:

lots of new characters (for this chapter and next chapter since i'm feeling nice)

Owen aka Maze - labyrinth (he makes walls)
Krow - darkness manipulation & world manipulation
Rasbi aka Demeter - poison touch
Apo aka Imp - fire manipulation
Bek aka Calypso - time manipulation
Eloise aka Eir - healing

 

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Chapter 12: Reunions

Gem paced around the old tree, she arrived just before dawn and couldn’t help but worry Fwhip had forgotten. The sound of a stick snapping under foot made her spin around. “You’re alive-” Fwhip gasped in awe

“Yeah, yeah i’m alive,'' she nodded. She didn’t know what to say last time she’d seen Fwhip she had yelled at him.

“You’re hair looks nice, it’s nice to you embraced the orange finally” he smiled slightly

“The brown was getting boring” she pulled on a chunk watching it bounce back up. “I’m sorry for my whole stunt it was for the better”

“So you’re truly aligned with them now?” he asked weakly

“Yeah i am” she answered “we don’t have to be completely against each other-” she started “there’s so many villains and heroes that are friends or family we don’t have to-”

“Gem i know.” Fwhip cut her off. “I should have fought harder to get out of the hero program to get us out of this mess and back home.” he sighed

“What home Fwhip? The power home? The village where no one would even look at us after everything?” she sighed leaning against the tree.

“I don’t know…” he responded weakly “...when are you breaking them out?”

“How did you-”

“They know somethings up they’ve had heroes patrolling for the past three weeks,”

“Do you swear not to tell them?” she asked

“I swear on the earth Gem.” he promised

“Tonight.” she responded simply “i’m horrified” she confessed “what if everything goes wrong?”

“Is there any way I can help?” he questioned “get the police and guards away uh get people out? Anything?”

“We’re trying to split the attention away from us to two other parts of the city, Orpheus and Atlas will be on the west side near the really expensive jewelry places and stuff are with some others causing chaos and Liz- Amphitrite and Toxin are having a mock battle near downtown.” she explained

He nodded “you really have people from every major faction in this… Amphitrite will have Thetis with her and i think Bloom and Fairy are also in that area so i hope Toxin is going to have some back up”

“Pyres with him,” Gem responded quickly

“Dangerous duo when it’s an actual fight. And when you say Orpheus and Atlas are causing chaos they’re really just…”

“Causing some light crime but yeah…”

“I’ll go after them and try and put up a convincing act,” he nodded. “Thank you Gem, I'm sorry you felt you had to run off and join the villains to feel like a person.” he summoned a sunstone crystal and handed it to her. “For luck”

“Thanks Fwhip.” she smiled softly creating a small light ring and placing it around his wrist, it would fade as soon as she was away from him but for now it was a bracelet.

“Good luck tonight” he added before disappearing back into the bushes and leaving her under the old willow tree again.

***

Everyone had met up on the apartment roof, it was a perfect meeting spot for so many people. Gem felt slightly sick staying close to Scott as he went over a few final plans. Every once in a while she would catch a glimpse of the spot she had been a few weeks ago and she couldn’t help but wince at the small trace of blood that littered the snow.

“Is this everyone?” Bek asked, reapplying her bandages again.

“No we’re missing someone…” Scott responded looking through the crowd again, it was separated into three neat groups, Orpheus and Atlas stood at the head of one handing out the signature white masquerade masks they wore to those with them. Amphitrite and Toxin stood with Pyre and Thetis, the four planning a simple fake fight that would be interesting enough to keep the polices attention.

“I can make myself taller” she heard Joel suggest as he shifted to make himself taller. “More threatening like that” he added

Finally stood near them was Martyn Tommy Phil and Sausage. A big group to be bringing into the most secure place in the city but a strong one. “Jimmy” Gem said “thats whos missing.”

Scott nodded reaching to pull out his phone when the golden winged man appeared “sorry i had to take a detour around a patrol” he apologised coming over to where Scott and Gem were, a scarlet mark covered his cheek

“is that from the raid-” Gem asked quietly as he passed he nodded in response pulling a golden plague doctor mask over his head.

“Jimmy you’re with us” Scott explained, motioning him over.

“Any final words as the only Boatem member here Gem?” Martyn asked

“Oh uhm…” she looked around everyone and couldn’t help but feel nervous, so many people were willing to help over small things and friendships from every side. “You’re all a lot braver than most of the heroes, and I hope you stay safe. After this we’ll be able to laugh about all of this.” she promised weakly scolding herself for how pathetic that was.

“Let's get going then.” Atlas nodded leading his group, Sniff followed him pulling her mask on. She straightened up, taking a deep breath.

Toxins' group was already gone leaving only them “well Gem, Scott, are we ready?” Martyn asked

“We are. We’re getting them out.” Gem answered boldly, they waited nearby the prison a guard radio playing almost as static as they went over a few last minute plans waiting for the news the other two groups had made it.

“Sausage you’re sure you’ll be able to get us in?” Phil asked doubtfully

“Of course these plants are so toxic they need to be contained in a special bag” he answered taking out said bag.

“Lily building this is officer 2031 there’s a fight going on between what looks like Atlas Orpheus and someone we haven’t seen before and Bookkeeper Eir and Fwhip we’re requesting backup since it’s just us two”

“Copied, we're sending some units your way.” they watched a handful of cars speed away

“Lily come in- Toxin and Pyre are fighting Thetis and Amphitrite and there’ a pretty big risk they destroy something- we need back up-”

Another overlapping call came in “Vex and Calypso are fighting-”

Other calls about villains or vigilantes filled the space. “Time to go.” Scott pulled his blindfold like mask on as they took off across the snowy ground, it was the coldest night of the year so far and it sent shivers down Suns spine.

As they approached the wall Myth placed down three seeds “back up!” He ordered the plants sprouted a purple syrup rolling off the leaves and it burned the floor and wall as the drops hit it. “Okay be careful not to brush the plant but we’re good now” he sighed leading the way.

Once they got in, Notos took over. “Maze room?” he asked Boreas nodded “that should be this way” he said leading them down a hall as they walked a door opened, Boreas reacted first freezing the one in place the other raised their hands to their ears as if it was too loud.

“Let them go they’re prisoners-” Notos ordered he unfroze them “you too Canary.” Notos added turning to him.

Canary sighed but the second person lowered their hands. “You’re not staff” the one said glancing between them

“No we’re not we’re trying to get some people out” Sun explained “i’m Sun Weaver my friends were taken.

“We’ve heard of you” the second one said “that elytrian they put in the same ward as us always said you were coming,”

“Wait an elytrian? What did he look like” Sun asked fluttering her wings

“Blonde and he had black wings with red, he was covered in scars” the first person said, pushing their white hair out of their face.

“Thats Grian alright” Eurus nodded

“What are your names?” Sun asked

“I’m Rasbi,” she said “this is Apo”

“Hello” Apo waved slightly

“Is there anyone else in that room?” Boreas asked

“No it’s just us, and the knocked out guard” Apo responded

“Who are you trying to get out?” Rasbi asked

“The other Boatem members and a guy named Owen” Boreas responded

“You know Owen?” Apo gasped “we can get you to the maze room” he led the way down long winding corridors of empty rooms until they reached a giant door, “in there be careful though” he added “one of the scientists, uh Cleo i think, shes in charge tends to always be guarding them”

“We’ll deal with that, don't worry.” Boreas reassured them, motioning to Sun and Eurus. Notos placed a keycard in his hand. “Go try and find a spot out of the hall” he suggested as they pushed the door open.

As Apo had warned, a person waited on the other side. “Just on time” she smiled standing up, “the final piece falls into place” she took a step forward. Boreas reacted first the blue light surrounding her, “yeah thats not going to work,” she tsked “your friend Eurus is numbing your powers too much” she took a step forward

“Then your powers will be weakened too.” Eurus pointed out, Sun could feel the numbness that always surrounded him grow

“I don’t need powers to take you out.” she responded dashing forward a knife in hand Sun summoned a web of light

“Go get into the room!” she ordered trying to entangle the knife wielding scientist

“Interesting your powers don’t seem at all affected by the power neutralizer gas in the air,” she noted, trying to spin around to grab Boreus or Eurus as they slipped by.

Grabbing a more firm grip on the golden strands she wrapped it around Cleo who attempted to cut it. “That's enough of that.” Sun Weaver took the knife from her hands, tightening the light that warped around her “sit here and think for a bit.” she added, following the other two to the door “ready?” she asked glancing at Boreas

He took a deep breath and nodding scanned the key card, the door opened slowly and a light flickered on in the room they were leaving. Stepping through the doorway Sun wasn’t sure what she was expecting but it wasn’t the blank white walls that surrounded her.

“Well would you look who finally made it” Pearl smiled

“Oh my sun you’re okay!” Gem hugged her, pulling off her mask. “I’m never letting any of you out of my sight again.” she added tucking Pearl under her wing

“Wait, which one is that again?” Gem glanced across the room to where a demon stood

“She’s Gem the one who wasn’t caught” Pearl responded “right! Krow this is Gem Scott and Phil, and you guys this is Krow and the guy sleeping is Owen” she explained “speaking of which”

“He’s already waking up” Krow responded, as if on cue Owen sat up clutching his head he glanced around the room looking started before his eyes landed on Scott

“You’re alive and you came!” he tried standing up he shook like a leaf many of the wires still trying to pull him back.

Scott raced forward offering a hand so that he could stand. “You’re never answering that door again.” he stated

“Yeah i know” Owen sighed, hugging him.

Notes:

i just find the title funny for this chapter considering its the one that both owen and apo are introduced in

 

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Chapter 13: Freedom at midnight

“How do we get the wires off?” Phil asked after a moment

“We could cut them?” Krow suggested

“Don’t cut them, you'll get electrocuted.” Pearl shook her head

“They’re not deep into my skin, I could just pull them out.” Owen said, tugging gently at one of the wires. The group fell quiet mulling over their options “there’s really no other option” he added after a moment of silence

“Okay… if we pull them out Gem can you heal him as we go?” Scott asked

“Yeah i can” she nodded

“Let me help” Krow offered

Owen gave it a side glance “i don’t know about this…” he muttered

“That was one time and you tried strangling me” Krow responded

Gem and Pearl exchanged a glance “do i wanna know?” Scott asked

“Nope let’s just get this over with” Owen responded, he sat down on the bed and took a deep breath. He grabbed the one in his arm and took a deep breath. As he had said the wires barely went under his skin so there was barely any blood but she could tell it hurt. As her powers had grown stronger she figured out she could sense the physical pain of someone if she was near them.

They finished pulling out the wires after a couple minutes, the wounds easily healed and after a moment Owen was able to stand well enough and the group slowly worked their way out of the white room, as they passed Cleo she opened her mouth to say something only to get cut off by Krow. “I’m really sick of your voice, how about you go have some alone time.” it snapped its fingers and a dark cloud covered her face. “A nice reality far far away and alone.” Gem felt a shiver run up her spine. Taking a deep breath she pulled her mask back on.

Notos was peeking into the hall “we’re done” Boreas called waving them over. Rasbi and Apo glanced at them before their eyes landed on Owen

“You’re alive!” Apo smiled hugging him

“Yeah somehow” Owen smiled wincing slightly Rasbi stood back slightly

“Okay let's finish this prison break. Does anyone know where the unknown power unit is?” Sun asked

“Yep i do” Krow nodded “its this way.” it didn’t take long to find the unit but it still horrified Sun at how few people were there, no guards no scientist no people, nothing.

As Krow opened the final door to the power unit an array of heavily armed guards stood before them, a handful of people stood behind them looking confused and concerned. “Put down any weapons and put your hands up.” one of the guards ordered raising his gun to point it at Suns head.

She glanced around the group, this wasn’t meant to happen, they hadn’t planned for this. More guards came from behind them leaving them trapped. Slowly the group put down what weapons they had, Gem even dropping the dagger Grian had given her months ago. The guards slowly approached and placed power nutralizers on their wrists, Scott glared at them through his vail freezing them only to get hit in the stomach but the but of a gun. He coughed, flinching back holding a hand gingerly over his stomach.

The power cuff was as numbing as Phils powers felt but more concentrated. She laughed slightly and saw Krow had a similar look on its face, she took a careful note of who had the power cuffs on. A loud yell from behind the guards made her jump slightly as she watched a short figure barrel through the crowd. A guard grabbed him as Grian came into view he glared at the guard holding him a hand gun raised against his temple.

“Xelqua stand down.” the guard holding him ordered, Grian flinched slightly at the name and Phil stiffened

“Oh you don’t like that name do you” another guard mocked. “Now why doesn’t everyone just relax, we'll get your sorted soon enough.” he came forward, reaching to take the mask of Gems face when a large boulder crashed into the group behind them. The guard pushed signaling to the guards behind them to go investigate. The one pushed Grian towards them.

“That wasn’t Impulse…” Pearl murmured “that was closer to Fwhip”

“Who cares who it was lets go!” Sun grabbed her dagger off the floor. The sounds of a fight filled the air followed by gunshots but the sounds remained quiet, she glanced at Canary who stood surrounded in a light golden glow.

Sun Weaver sprang into the fray, her vision becoming lighter with every strand of light she made until it was impossible to see and she fought blindly. It became clear for a moment as Krows' powers crossed her path, nearly hitting her only to brighten again. The next thing she was aware of was Grian grabbing her wrist and dragging her down the hall slightly. “Are you okay?” he asked

“I’m fine, why? Shouldn’t I be the one asking you?” she asked in response confused

“Have your powers always been corruptive?” he asked

“Corruptive?” she echoed

“The whole glowy thing” he explained raising her wrist up to show her hand glowing too bright to look at “plus back there you weren’t fighting like a person in control”

“Is that why I basically went blind?” she murmured

“Oh sun, you don’t know about power corruption-” Grian fluttered his wings slightly wincing as he used sun, Gem winced too

“How often did you use your powers before we kidnapped you?”

“Not very often maybe a few times a week”

“Gem, I need you to swear to me on the sun. You'll listen when your powers start acting like that and not use them.” he ordered “and i return i swear i’ll teach you how to properly use your powers without nearly tearing yourself apart.”

“Grian if i break that promise-” Gem started

“Then you’ll die, I know. If i break mine i’d die too” he responded pulling up his sleeve to show the symbol she bore on her upper arm “i don’t want to see you pull yourself apart using your powers like i did back when i was Ic-”

“Back when you were Icarus. Back when the heroes pushed everyone to their limits and Fwhip was rarely home” Gem murmured

“Yeah” Grian nodded “i always forget you were around back then” he added rubbing the back of his neck

“Okay… Grian i swear on the sun if my powers get to this point again i won’t use them.” she swore a shiver running up her spine

“And I swear on the sun I will teach you how to properly use your powers and not be corrupted by them,” he responded. They returned to where the group should have been but it was empty

“They decided to try and find Mumbo and Scar” Krow explained appearing from the shadows “we should move one of them called for backup” it explained pointing at one of the guards

“Who brought that boulder down?” Grian asked

“That was us” Fwhip said as he and Impulse hopped down from a boulder

“I thought you were after Atlas and Orpheus” Gem murmured in confusion

“Well i was going to but i decided to tail you guys, then i got lost in the building and found Impulse” he explained

“So you two are okay now?” Grian asked, tipping his head to the side “and you’re okay with this?” he added glancing between Fwhip and Gem

“Talk as we move” Impulse sighed as they walked Gem and Fwhip explained the events of their meeting.

“Fwhip i have a question since you’re a hero” Grian started

“I may have an answer” Fwhip responded

“Do the heroes teach or at least warn apprentices about power corruption?”

“Grian-” Gem cut in glancing over at him

“No Gem let him speak i wanna hear this” Grian responded, Krow and Impulse both stiffened

“No not really… they normally try and push past power corruption as far as they can manage” Fwhip responded slowly

“Just as I expected… Nothing changed. Even after I nearly killed myself for their cause they still don’t take any caution against it.” he huffed his wings bristling. Gem shuffled away from him so she was standing closer to Impulse

“Listen, I push every day for them to take more precautions but they don’t listen, they don’t care.” Fwhip responded, stopping “the amount of times i’ve nearly petrified myself because they pushed and they pushed past my limit.”

Grian opened his mouth to respond when an alarm went off red flashing lights filled the hall. “We need to go.” Impulse cut in “does anyone know how to get out?”

Krow glanced around “I've never seen this spot.” it responded “i was sent to the maze room almost as soon as i got here…”

“I think maybe I saw this?” Grian responded “I think there’s an exit that way,” he added. They followed him down another empty hall that reached a dead end.

“Great because you two were arguing we’re lost now” Krow huffed. Grian groaned casting out his powers

“Okay i think we have to go back up and that way?” he explained pointing left “or maybe there? I- i don’t know my powers feel frazzled…” he fluttered his wings distressed when a popping sound filled the air.

Pearl and Martyn appeared “oh thank the moon you all stayed together” she sighed in relief “lets get you out of here” she added as the two half enderians teleported them out.

Notes:

Fwhip - creates rocks out of nothing

well that was the first big event after this chapter and a small follow up in the next one everyones going to get some downtime for a few chapter

 

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Chapter 14: A graceless dance of epithets

Everyone had piled into the van, it was full packed with more people then there should have been. Grian and Pearl were asleep, Pearl leaning against him like that night so long ago in the back of Wilburs car Impulse sat next to them, preening their wings gently. Fwhip was silent as he sat next to Gem which she was comfortable with. The four newcomers sat talking quietly.

“So you four,” Scott started glancing back at them in the mirror “if you don’t mind me asking, you were all a part of the outsiders program right?”

“Well Scott you know i was” Owen responded “and Rasbi I remember you we were dumped in the same area right?”

“Yeah we were! I forgot about that” she nodded

“I definitely was” Apo answered

“I think i was too” Krow finished

“I suspected as much.” Scott sighed

“What is the outsiders program?” Gem asked quietly

“A program where they take villains or vigilantes wipe their memories and then send them back into the city to see what happens” Scott explained “but everyone is safe now, we don’t have to worry about it anymore”

The ride was silent after that, everyone too exhausted to talk. Gem laid against him and eventually fell asleep, she awoke to the car coming to a stop while everyone else was in a similar state of grogginess.

Stepping out of the car they were surrounded by everyone. The chatter of voices filled the air, Gem excused herself from the crowd in the parking lot and managed to slip into the elevator. As she arrived on her floor she let out a sigh and went into her room. Not even bothering to change she fell onto the couch and passed out.

***

There was a loud knocking on the door. Groaning, she hobbled over to the door feeling sore as if she had run for days. “Its four pm Gem, did you just wake up?” Pearl asked smiling

“Yes i did, i’m exhausted” Gem responded stretching her wings out

“We’re having a meeting and we need you” Pearl explained

“Okay give me five minutes? I’ll go change and get ready” Pearl nodded, closing the door. Gem changed into a large green hoodie and quickly braided her hair before meeting Pearl out in the hall. “What’s the meeting about?” she asked as they walked

“If we need to move due to being on the run or not” Pearl explained shrugging

“How does that work if Scar’s fired now?”

“That's… a good question I don't know…”

“Well lets hope then” Gem sighed

The other four were sitting in a meeting room all looking in various stages of sleep deprivation and exhaustion. Now that Gem looked around she realized Pearl was the only one who looked like she’d slept decently.

“So no one slept last night then?” Impulse asked drinking a cup of coffee

“I actually overslept by a lot” Gem admitted “i fell asleep as soon as we got back and just woke up”

“Considering how much your powers corrupted last night i’m not surprised” Grian responded, yawning his wings were messy stained purple from something that had dried.

“Okay back on the subject, what do we do?” Scar asked “cause i can’t get another building now”

There was a knock on the door “come in” Mumbo called. Sniff entered looking nervous

“Uhm not great news, there’s three heroes waiting in the lobby they want to talk to you guys” they explained

“Who?” Scar asked perking up

“Uh Bookkeeper, Bloom and Zephyrus” she responded

“Thats a very neutral party, it doesn’t seem like a threat” Grian murmured

“I’ll go” Gem offered

Grian stood up “i think i’ll go too, i’ve been itching for a fight”

“Scar, do you want to go?” Mumbo offered “since you three have the most connection with those three”

Scar was silent for a moment thinking “sure i’ll go” he responded tucking his bow over his shoulder, “is it even worth putting on a mask?” he asked as the three followed Sniff out of the room

Gem shrugged “I need to since technically my identity is still hidden and i’m dead” she responded pulling her mask out of her pocket and adjusting the voice changers settings on her watch

As the three arrived in the lobby it was easy to spot the three outsiders. The lobby had a few residents milling around, Gem made eye contact with Joel and Oli as they chatted in front of the fire, they were tense waiting to see if anything happened. “Heroes, what can we do for you?” Apollo asked smiling

“We need to chat” Bookkeeper started “and I swear on lady wisdom we have no intent to fight” those words held enough weight to make Sun Weaver relax slightly

“We’d like to come to an agreement. During the few weeks you were locked up we were rarely patrolling at all which meant the higher heroes were forcing us to train, many ended up corrupting to their powers” he explained, Bloom winced slightly

“We’d like to make a deal where none of us will attempt to arrest any Boatem members if you will continue to patrol the city and cause problems so we’re not stuck in the hero-corp building” Zepheryus cut in

“Thats quite the strange request-” Sun hummed

“Yeah why that?” Watcher agreed crossing his arms

“Watcher, you were one of us only a few years ago. You witnessed how bad power corruption was considering…” Bookkeeper trailed off as Watcher flinched “I want to keep that level of corruption as small as I can manage. I don’t want it tearing apart more people.”

“So what? We continue to patrol and fight heroes and you don’t end up all dead and what about us? The cops are still after us” Apollo pointed out

“We’ve dealt with that we’ve told the force that we’re keeping this building under watch but we haven’t seen any of you since you escaped in this building, you’re as off their radar as i can manage as a hero and mayor” Zepheryus responded

“So in exchange to keep doing our jobs you’re giving us immunity in our own home and less stabbing of these idiots maybe?” Sun listed

“I will get everyone to relax though no ones registered to have had to use a weapon since Fwhip stabbed Watcher months ago, the night Gem went missing.” Bookkeeper agreed.

Sun glanced between Apollo and Watcher who nodded “then Bookkeeper if i remember you are a tether, we shall make this deal with our gods connection as the stakes.”

He nodded, “I'd expect no other circumstances.” He removed a glove and held out his scarred hand and Sun removed hers, still glowing faintly she took his hand. A shock seemed to run through her body and she couldn’t help but notice images dancing in Bookkeeper's eyes for a moment before he took back his hand.

The entire lobby seemed to take a breath “oh Sun Weaver i have something for you” Bloom murmured slipping her a piece of paper as the other two heroes turned to leave “uh, Fwhip got in trouble for helping with the jailbreak and is on tower duty for the next few weeks, thats his personal phone number” she explained quickly before running after the other two.

“Bookkeeper! If any heroes get injured on patrol around here tell them to come here we’ll provide aid when we can.” Sun called after them as they left.

“Why would you make that deal?” Grian asked once they were gone

“Because i know you or Scar would have done it if you trusted them even slightly more” she responded simply “i have a feeling that will keep us safer in the future” she added as she wandered off to the community kitchen.

Sausage popped into the kitchen after a few minutes she looked up from the counter she had been wiping down after spilling her boiling water “hey” she called in greeting

“Hey Gem! Is there any water left?” he asked pulling out another mug

“Yep there’s some on the stove still, should be enough for a glass” she answered “tea?” she added opening the drawer full of different kinds

“Yeah some tea, can you grab the mango kind?” he asked

“Thats a good choice” she nodded pulling out the tea bags “we haven’t gotten much of a chance to talk in a long time huh”

“Yeah it has been a long time… last time we chatted was back when you were still going by Crystal and rebelling against Fwhip” he hummed reminding her

“Yeah that night of the rooftop after you got injured in a fight” she recalled “jeez that was the first time i showed anyone my healing powers” she added rubbing the back of her neck

“Thats gotta be some act of fate that twice now you’ve saved me when i’ve nearly died” Sausage laughed “that night in the fire i didn’t even know it was you until you managed to cast a shield with your light”

“I didn’t know it was you either, i should have guessed as much but it was a lot”

Sausage nodded “are you still rebelling against Fwhip?” he asked

“No not anymore we’ve figured something out, it just took me being kidnapped to see eye to eye i guess” she answered pulling her tea bag out and watching the water drip out.

“Well thats good” he smiled. Lizzie and Joel came into the kitchen Hermes on Joel's back

“The stupid hero chat won’t shut up” Lizzie groaned glancing at her phone

“You guys have a group chat?” Gem asked

“Does Boatem not?” Joel looked surprised

“Not that i’m aware of, honestly they don’t ever really text each other it's more phone calls or in person” she responded shrugging

“A handful of us vigilantes have one, mostly it’s just where everyone is and if there’s anything they might need help with” Sausage added

Lizzie looked up in surprise, meeting Gems eyes “you made a deal with Pixl?” she asked surprised

“I thought I mentioned that?” Joel murmured putting Hermes down

“I thought you meant a small deal not an oath on their tethers-”

“Yeah it was the better option for everyone” she tried reasoning “okay i don’t really know why i decided to do it i wasn’t really thinking” she sighed folding her wings closer to her body.

“I definitely would have thought about it more but…” she paused reading over the messages “you’ve probably helped us more than anything”

“I’m supposed to be a villain i’m not supposed to help the heroes” Gem groaned holding her head in her hands

“Gem i’m married to a hero and i’m a villain” Joel pointed out holding up his hand that had two rings, one gold with a sapphire in the middle the other silver with a small jade on it, “none of this stupid system works unless all three parties work together”

She let out a huff of air letting go of her head “it never gets less confusing does it?”

“Nope not in the slightest” Sausage responded patting her on the back “good luck getting anything to make sense” he added.

Notes:

Fwhip - creates rocks out of nothing
Pix aka Bookkeeper - prophecy

 

The Playlist

My Twitter

Chapter 15: A winter’s ball

Notes:

this is Pt 1 of the holiday chapters, sorry for taking so long schools been a lot

It was the coldest night of the winter so far, Gem was sitting on the small ledge in her room that overlooked the city waiting. Her phone began to ring she took a deep breath before answering “hey Fwhip”

“Hey Gem! Sorry about going radio silent for a couple weeks there they had me basically on lock down after i helped with the prison” he explained “they finally put me on patrol for tomorrow”

“Yeah Shubble told me as much” Gem sighed “oh right, uh Philza Craft is hosting a party for the winter holidays and we got invited and they told me i could invite you” she explained

“Really?” he sounded surprised “i always thought the only people the Crafts would have at parties would be rich people”

Gem laughed “yeah about that… well Grians his brother so by default he would be invited but no Phil hates that whole stereotype its all his friends and family”

“If you’re sure they won’t try and kill me then yeah i’ll go” he responded

“They won’t kill you because you’re a hero there’ll be other heroes there.”

“Okay i’ll go. When is it?”

“Next Saturday, i’ll send you the address and all of that over text” she responded smiling.

“I’ll see you there” Fwhip responded, hanging up.

Gem took a deep breath, her wings fluttering in excitement and she smiled happily.

***

The week went by fast, Gem working on decorating the building “hey the tree looks nice!” she called down to Sniff who was decorating the giant tree in the lobby.

“Thanks its so much easier with telekinesis” he responded, “no ladders just hoping i can position it right” lifting up another decoration they lifted it into the tree.

“Gem, are you ready to go?” Pearl called hopping down the stairs pulling on a jacket.

“Yep i’m ready” she responded

“Have fun” Sniff waved smiling

“The other three are out in the cars already” Pearl explained.

Heading into the garage, Impulse waved them over. “You two are with me, Grian and Mumbo left already. They wanted to pick up some stuff before they went.

Gem nodded going to get into the back “do you want to drive Gem? I don’t think you’ve ever gotten the chance” Pearl asked. She froze trying to ignore the fear building in her

“I don’t actually have my license, i probably shouldn’t” she shrugged

“When has something against the law stopped us?” Impulse pointed out.

“I mean I could try?” she sighed, shaking out her wings before hiding them.

“Do you know how to drive?” Impulse asked hoping into the passenger seat,

“Yeah i know how it works, my mom used to let me drive back in Dawn just never got my license” she responded taking the car out of neutral. Impulse's car was a lot smoother then the ancient farm truck her mom had had.

Driving in the city scared her too many people around once she made it out to the country it felt like she could breathe again. “You did really well” Impulse smiled “much better then Wilbur and he somehow got his license”

“Well as i said my mom used to let me and Fwhip drive around Dawn and Crystal Cliffs i haven’t been behind a wheel since she passed though'' Gem explained “we’re pulling in here right?” she asked pointing at the house up ahead

“Yep the one all lit up” Impulse responded. Pulling into the driveway, Gem was mesmerized by the lights hanging from many of the trees. The driveway was packed with cars, many people hopping out of the cars carrying food.

“Gem!” Fwhip called as he hopped out of a black truck “you drove?”

“Yeah, first time since i got to the city,” she responded, “thats not your truck how’d you get here?”

“Niki offered to take me and Shubble” he responded “there’s a lot of people jeez” he murmured looking around.

“Lets get out of the snow and i’ll try and give you the rundown” Gem offered, at the front door they were greeted by Phil and a woman

“Oh you must be Gem, I'm Kristen! We didn’t get to meet when you stayed here since i was on a business trip” she smiled offering a hand

“Nice to meet you, you have a beautiful house and this is my brother Fwhip” she added

“Yes we’ve met a few times before in the hero-corp back when i was a reporter on that” her gaze seemed to darken for a moment before she continued “you can throw your coats in the closet there and make yourself at home.”

Gem took off her jacket hanging it on the stuffed closet brimming with jackets “okay i’ll try and tell you who everyone is and how they’re connected. This might take a minute.” she rubbed her hands together. It took more than a minute on multiple occasions she slipped up and used the wrong name or how they were connected and by the end she felt frazzled.

“Gem nice to see you” Tommy greeted “and Fwhip its nice to see you too…” he added it must have been a subconscious shift as his features changed to be that of a high level plain elf

Fwhip looked puzzled for a moment “oh you were in the hero-corp apprentice program for a few years and ended up being the one who got Dream fired” he realised “we’re still so grateful for that”

“Right yeah… i hope you’re not taking any of this info back to your hero friends” Tommy scanned him

“If it makes you feel better i’ll make an oath.” Fwhip shot back quickly “i’m not willing to risk my life to give them information.”

Niki came over “everything okay?” she asked glancing between the group “it looked a little tense here”

“No we’re fine sorry for bothering you guys” Tommy walked off

“Sorry about him, he’s protective about the whole villain thing” Niki sighed “but anyways make yourself comfortable”

The party was busy, people from all parts of the city were there chatting as one, their jobs forgotten. The snow had begun to fall as the final four showed up, all of them looked miserable except for Scott who was smiling softly.

“Did you walk or something?” she called as they shook snow off

“Skated down the river” Jimmy responded clinging to Tango for his heat,

Owen shook the snow off his jacket onto Scott “never again” he sighed, shaking some more snow from his hair.

“The ice is frozen all the way through” Scott commented “you just don't know how to skate well.”

“Well Scott i’ve been in jail for however long of course i’m not going to know how to skate” Owen shot back throwing him his jacket “i’m going to go warm up” he sighed

“Oh Gem i’m going to Rivendell in a few days to visit my brother, if you want to catch a ride, we can stop past Dawn or Crystal Cliffs if you want”

“Really? I can arrange a hotel in one of them so we can rest there if that helps” she offered

“That would be great,” he smiled.

“Oh hey we’re moving outside if you guys want to come” Wilbur said grabbing an armful of jackets out of the closet.

“Oh definitely” Scott grinned carrying his and Owens jacket out of the coat room.

Notes:

The Playlist

 

My Twitter

Chapter 16: Snow ball effects

Notes:

thank you guys so much for 200 kudos btw!! holy shit never thought i'd make it this far

The snow was light but coming down quickly, the lake that had been cleared before was already developing a layer of snow over it. “Do you skate?” Pearl asked zipping up her jacket

“I used to, i was never great at it” she responded “you?”

“Yeah i used to figure skate a few hund- a few years ago, i did it when i wasn’t working in the hero-corp” Pearl responded, she glanced at the ice a longing look in her eyes

“Go skate then i’ll find someone else to chat with” Gem gestured towards the ice. Pearl smiled gratefully jumping down from the deck.

“Hey Gem, how have you been?” Lizzie asked glancing over from where she was leaning onto the banister

“Still trying to figure everything out” she sighed, coming to stand next to her “where’s Joel?” she asked looking around

“Well he and Tommy are currently having a challenge to see who can impersonate the other the best” Lizzie explained “Joel” she said making air quotes “is down there chatting with Jimmy”

The fake Joel was chatting with Jimmy who looked confused “Tommys clearly failing then” Gem commented

Techno cleared his throat to get their attention “this one's yours where’s the other one?” he asked pushing a Tommy over

“You both suck at switching then” Lizzie sighed as Joel switched back into his normal form “Tommys down there” she pointed to him

Techno nodded, going to go grab Tommy. Gem followed leaving Lizzie and Joel alone. As she passed Fwhip she was happy to see he was chatting with Impulse Tango and Mumbo.

“Bits over Tommy lets go” Techno tapped him on the shoulder and ‘Joel’ dropped his look

“Hey Jimmy” Tommy smiled before running quickly off

“Did they swap?” he asked in confusion glancing up at the deck where Joel and Lizzie were

“Yeah and they were bad at it too” Techno responded.

“Gem!” Grian waved her over grinning “come up here with me” he suggested leading her up to the roof, “you wanna throw snowballs at people” he asked making one

“I can’t see this ending well for you.” she sighed

“Well cover for me then” he huffed, going to throw one at Scott who caught him seconds before freezing him in place.

“Nice first pick” Gem laughed Scott landed on the roof his large white wings folding neatly onto his back

“Grian i completely expected this of you but Gem?” he looked surprised

“I dragged Gem along cause she was alone” Grian explained “do you want to help?”

“Oh absolutely” he responded instantly, he threw one at Wilbur who looked around in surprise wiping the snow off his jacket.

“Nice shoot!” Grian commented

“What are you three doing?” Owen asked, he was balanced perfectly on the roof as poised as a cat

“I’m not doing anything it’s these two” Gem responded instantly “how did you get up here i thought it would have been impossible without wings”

He flinched at the mention of wings “apparently i was really good at scaling buildings and stuff in whatever past i had” he shrugged “it would have been easier with my wings but they’re kinda gone now…”

Everyone fell silent, wing clipping had been outlawed but its effects still showed up even years later. “If only my powers were strong enough to heal something like that” Gem muttered

“I doubt there’s a single person out there with those powers” Owen sighed laying back in the snow

“Five points if you can hit Fwhip or Niki” Scott stated

“Make it ten” Grian responded gathering a ball of snow up

“Five each no powers. Final offer” Scott shot back.

Grian sighed winding up he hit Fwhip easily enough but landed short of Niki “dang it” he groaned

“Five points to Grian” Gem announced laughing slightly

“Are you four terrorizing my guests?” Like a dark shadow Phil descended onto the roof, he wobbled slightly keeping his wings spread for balance “how are you all so comfortable balancing on the roof-” he added, taking a shaky breath.

“Part feline” Owen responded quickly standing up “its all these three by the way i didn’t pick up any snow” he added before quickly turning to run.

“Oh no you’re coming down with me.” Scott called surrounding him in his powers Owen groaned

“You four better knock off the snowball throwing or i’m making you all clean up after” he put a hand on his hip “final warning”

“Yes Mr Craft” Grian rolled his eyes “once an older brother always an older brother” he added under his breath

“I kept you out of trouble your entire childhood” Phil retaliated

“Mhm… we’ll just ignore high school and the watcher stuff” Grian responded

Phil sighed his wings drooping “G lets go chat you three go do something else no more snowballs”

Gem floated down from the roof near Impulse “hey there you are” he smiled “hows it going”

“Honestly it’s a lot busier than i expected” she replied honestly “i wasn’t expecting quite this many people”

“Yeah these parties are always busy” he nodded sympathetically “you’re brothers a nice guy, definitely your brother” he added

“Thats good i was worried he’d be ostracized-” she confessed

“No if he wasn’t a hero i think he’d fit in great in the apartment” Impulse smiled “actually why is he still living in the hero-corp building?”

“I don’t actually know… he can afford the rent of a nice uptown house easily and it’s not like he has to stay for me anymore so i really don’t know” she answered “Fwhips mind works in weird ways” she shrugged

Grian walked over “hey i’m thinking of heading home” he explained, he sounded defeated and his wings were ruffled slightly “do either of you need a ride?”

“I’ll go, I'm done here” Impulse replied “Gem?”

“I’ll head home with the others” she responded “drive safe” she added

Heading down to the frozen pond Gem gasped as she nearly fell slipping on the ice “careful” Scar smiled catching her

“Thanks Scar” she sighed straightening up “oh wow it looks like the ponds glowing” she added looking in round in awe

“Thats those two” he pointed to Pearl and Scott who were in the middle of the pond they seemed relaxed like this was a normal experience for them “i haven’t seen them skate in a long time” he added

There was a yelp as Jimmy shot by them into a snowbank, Mumbo skidded to a stop next to them putting a hand over his mouth “you okay Jimmy?” he called

“No that hurt” Jimmy responded, Gem went over to help him stand up offering a hand “thanks” he mumbled she managed to pull him up barely.

***

Gem collapsed into the snow with a sigh she felt exhausted. “You alright?” Fwhip asked sitting down next to her

“A bit overwhelmed” she responded “oh right so Scott mentioned he’s heading to Rivendell so he had to pass through Dawn and he offered to drop me off there for a weekend if you want to come”

“Oh thats perfect i need to do a interview up there soon!” Fwhip smiled

“What are you interviewing for?” Gem sat up

“Oh thats right i haven’t told you yet- i applied to move to the Grimlands hero program since they’re a lot calmer there-” he explained

“Oh…” Gem felt her heart sink “you’re going to move out there then?”

“If i’m accepted… i’ll visit as often as i can i’m only a few hours away” he promised “you could move out there start your life of crime there” he added jokingly

“Yeah i’m sure that would go well not suspicious in the slightest” she shot back

The party was mostly empty by now, “hey Gem we’re gonna head home you ready?” Pearl called

“Yeah i’m ready” she stood up brushing snow off “we’ll talk more later Fwhip” she added following them to the car.

Notes:

thats most likely the last or second last chapter till the new year have a great holiday in case it is the last one!!

 

The Playlist

My Twitter

Chapter 17: Not a Chapter!!

so probably no chapters until the new year but i want to engage with you guys some more!! so if you have any questions feel free to ask away and i'll do my best to provide a good answer

Chapter 18: The road home

Notes:

i lied you guys get one more chapter before 2023 since i finished some

i will see you guys next year

“So you two are going to be alright?” Scar asked as he drove Pearl and Gem to the Chromia hotel where they were meeting Scott.

“We’ll be fine i know Crystal Cliffs like the back of my hand and i knew everyone there i’m sure it’s not too different” Gem responded

“So the plan is we’re stopping there for a couple days and then heading to Rivendell right?” Pearl asked

“Yep thats the plan” Gem responded.

Pulling into the hotels parking lot Scott waved them over “you two ready?” he asked as they got out.

“I hope so” Gem smiled

“We’re taking the van we used back at the prison since it will fit everyone better” he explained. The back was full of bags

“Well you two have fun, send us messages” Scar called from the car driving off.

“Whos all coming?” Pearl asked throwing her back into the back

“You two, Owen Oli and Fwhip” he answered “speaking of which there’s Owen” he pointed towards a car that pulled into the parking lot, Tango waved from the driverseat

“I’ll go grab the other two since i told them to go hang out inside, pick a seat for the next few hours” Scott waved, running towards the entrance of the hotel.

***

Dusk was starting to wrap its fingers around the sky as they reached an old road Gem knew well, she had moved into the front to give directions “we just keep going up the old gravel road until we reach the giant parking lot. Its a walking town so we can’t bring it with us” she explained.

Passing through the thick forests she and Fwhip roamed as children Gem felt slightly sick, there was a heavy feeling hanging over them. “So this is as far as we can drive?” Scott asked parking

“Yeah, so i’d recommend leaving everything except your bags here,” Gem added, hiding her wings. The six walked through the nearly empty town, besides the few people making their way through the snow it was silent. Entering the small inn at the end of the main road Gem let go of the breath she didn’t know she was holding.

“Welcome to the Crystal Cliffs Inn do you have a reservation or is it a drop in?” the man behind the desk asked not even looking up from his book

“Reservation for three rooms” Gem responded quickly. Fiddling with the hem of her hoodie

“Okay and whats the last name this is booked under?” he asked glancing at the computer

“Tay” she responded, that got a small chuckle from him

“Small world my sister's last name was Tay too, Lily Tay” Gem felt her heart drop, the man behind the desk was their uncle. He glanced up finally “Fwhip…” he looked shocked

“Hey” Fwhip waved awkwardly, Gem could feel the others stiffen unsure how this was going to go.

“I heard about your sister. I'm sorry for your loss” the older man sighed before looking over at Gem “and you are?”

“Uh I’m a cousin on their dads side, Aurora Tay” she lied quickly

“Right well you guys have a good night” he smiled weakly.

Once up the stairs Gem paused for a moment to collect herself “oh my god” she muttered feeling sick.

“It gets easier to fake your death with time,” Pearl comforted.

“It really does,” Scott nodded. Owen Fwhip and Oli all exchanged glances of concern and confusion.

“Anyways,” Gem quickly composed herself. “I'd recommend getting some sleep. We'll explore what's open in the town tomorrow, alright?” she handed out the keys

“I’ll bunker down with you for the night Gem” Pearl offered, following her.

Gem collapsed into one of the beds with a sigh “does it ever actually get easier?” she asked rolling onto her back

“No not really, in my hundreds of years of existing on this planet it’s never gotten easier changing my identity and such” Pearl sighed

“You’re not human are you?” Gem asked

Pearl's response was quiet and slow “no. I’m not even from earth or this galaxy but I've been stuck here for thousands of years so I've just learned to tolerate it.”

Gem didn’t respond “you should sleep Gem” Pearl murmured before an overwhelming feeling of exhaustion made Gem fall asleep.

***

Gem sat up in a dark throne room. One person stood before her cloaked in lavish greens. “Oh Gem i wasn’t expecting you here” he smiled

“Where is here?” Gem asked looking around the empty room

“Welcome to the gods meeting hall, for some stupid reason they’ve dragged me here” he sighed looking slightly irritated “and it seems you’ve been dragged along too”

“But why i was sleeping don’t want anything more to do with the gods” she groaned,

Scar smiled slightly at that “if i knew how their thought processes worked i’d tell you” he shrugged. There was a bright light forming in one of the seats “ah look away or they’ll burn your eyes” he ordered looking down at the floor.

Gem copied him “ᓭᓵᔑ∷, welcome it’s been a long time” a honey sweet voice stated

“Sun its nice to see you” Scar smiled at them

“And young Gemini you’ve managed to project yourself all the way here… your powers are stronger than I thought,” they stood up, coming to kneel before the pair “it's not your time to be here yet return to your sleep.”

***

Gem woke up, a small stream of light filtering through the window, she could hear the sound of movement on the balcony as she slowly sat up. Pearl was leaning against the banister overlooking the forest below “morning Gem” he called not even looking back

Standing up Gem walked over to her side “you used your powers on me last night didn’t you?” she asked trying not to make it sound like an accusation

“Yeah i shouldn’t have but you just seemed like you were going a mile a minute and weren’t going to slow down” Pearl sighed.

Gem nodded “thats fair, i probably would have been up all night” she sighed “hey i was thinking of waking up Fwhip and going to visit the cemetery in a little bit if you wanted to go for a stretch” she explained running a hand through her messy hair

“Sure Gem i’ll go with you guys” she smiled “now let's go inside i’m gonna freeze.”

Notes:

the end draws near

 

The Playlist

 

My Twitter

Chapter 19: Mist burning

Notes:

oh wow it's a new year now, have some minor back story for scott and some for gem and fwhip

also if i made a discord for g3es would anyone be interested?/genq

As more light began to stream through the balcony door Gem texted Fwhip. Humming quietly she pulled on a jacket and waited. Pearl was cleaning up her bag as they waited, “ouch!” she hissed suddenly

Gem watched her pull her hand away from her bag “you okay?” she asked quickly

“My bags old, one of the wires is poking out and it cut my hand” Pearl responded holding her hand gingerly

“Let me see” Gem held out her hands and took Pearls carefully, it glowed slightly for a second “there we go good as new” she smiled taking her hand away

“Thanks Gem” Pearl smiled inspecting her hand “you’re so much more powerful than you were when we first met” she commented “not even a scar”

“Yeah, being able to use them so often has definitely made me stronger,” she responded “I haven't gotten sick from using my powers since I healed Impulse that one time.”

“You’re not overusing them though right? Grian mentioned that you were doing that for a while”

“Nope, I've only used my powers in manageable amounts recently. See no glowing” she held up her hands which were perfectly fine

“You’re a completely different person now, if past you met you now she wouldn’t know who you are” Pearl ruffled Gems hair affectionately “and i like this new you” she added before a knock interrupted them.

Gem quickly opened the door to reveal Fwhip “sorry i forgot to respond to your text but i’m here now” he apologised

“Are the other three coming?” Pearl asked

“Yeah Olis just grabbing them, they’ll meet us in the lobby.” Fwhip responded, the trio went downstairs, thankfully their uncle wasn’t the one working, instead was a young woman

“Oh a group of early risers, we don’t see very many of you this time of year, stay warm out there” she smiled

“Thanks” Gem smiled, there was the sound of footsteps as the other three bundled down the stairs, Scott nearly tripping as he did up his coat, Owen caught him at the last second with a sigh.

“Alright where are we headed?” Oli asked adjusting the guitar on his back

“We’re headed to the graveyard because i wanna see moms gravestone” Gem responded leading them back towards the parking lot “its a slight hike into the woods but its alright”

They soon reached the graveyard and everyone fell quiet “moms graves up here right” Fwhip pointed to an old willow tree

“Yeah…” Gem took a deep breath, as the pair made their way up, Oli stayed nearby but hung back just enough he wasn’t invading anything.

In the years since their last visit someone had clearly been taking decent enough care of the grave that the photo sitting on the top was still in good condition, it was the only photo of both of their parents and them back when the twins were only toddlers

“This must be your grave then” Fwhip wiped some snow off the grave next to it, as expected the name Gemini Tay was written neatly on it.

“Something about seeing it just makes the last five months feel unreal” she murmured. The pair fell silent for a while the only sound was the playing of guitar farther into the valley. As silent as an owl, Pearl appeared.

She bowed her head slightly and Gem was just able to make out her whisper something “ᒲᔑ|| ||𝙹⚍∷ ∷ᒷᓭℸ ̣ ʖᒷ ∴ᒷꖎꖎ ᔑリ↸ ᒲᔑ|| ℸ ̣ ⍑ᒷ ᓭℸ ̣ ᔑ∷ᓭ ᓵ∷ᔑ↸ꖎᒷ ||𝙹⚍” she then turned to Gems false gravestone “how's it feel?” she asked

“A bit funny honestly” she responded “i can’t believe i’m legally dead…” she laughed slightly reaching up to wipe away the tears forming “sorry i don’t even know why i’m getting emotional, i’m gonna go for a walk”

Excusing herself Gem wandered further into the graveyard, eventually finding herself at the ancient monument dedicated to everyone who died in the great rapture. She slid down against it and buried her face in her hands.

“Are you okay?” she looked up her wings flaring in surprise

“Ah Oli! Everythings fine yeah sorry-” she quickly apologized

“Mhm…” he sat down next to her “everythings been a lot recently and while i never really had a family i’m sure that isn’t helping” he sympathized

“Yeah… i thought i’d be stronger after all these years but here we are,” she pushed her hair back out of her face.

“Was she a nice lady?” Oli asked

“Yeah she raised us really well, better than any of the foster homes did” Gem smiled weakly “i miss her” she sighed

“One day she’ll return” Oli murmured “maybe you’ll meet her”

“Maybe” Gem sighed, leaning back against the giant tomb. “I doubt it though.”

“Oh my gods i forgot my name was on this list-” Gem and Oli exchanged a glance and she couldn’t help but laugh slightly.

Scott glanced around the corner at them “hey there” he smiled “funny seeing you here”

“You’re on the list of people who died during the rapture?” Oli asked looking unconvinced

“Oli i wish i was joking but i’ve been around that long” Scott sighed “come see for yourself”

“They called you Major and not Smajor how does that make you feel?” Owens voice echoed

“Sounds about right no one spelt it right after my parents converted it from galactic” he sighed. Oli climbed to his feet and offered Gem a hand, together the pair went to look.

“Oh wow did all the emperors die?” she murmured all twelve names were displayed

“Uh no not then anyways, but most either went missing completely off the face of the earth” he wiped the snow away revealing a name half buried faint with age “left the area completely or in mine and Pearls cases fell into a coma for a very long time-”

“What a lame ending” Owen hummed

“Owen i have watched you die in two lives now, only one of them would be considered interesting if that's your standards” Scott stated dead serious “i plunged a sword into my chest to stop my brother from becoming more corrupted that has to earn me some points”

Owen rolled his eyes “alright whatever you want to believe oh great ancient one”

Scott groaned at that and Gem quickly covered her mouth to stop from laughing. “Hey Gem i’ve got a question” Oli piped up

“I may have an answer” she responded turning to him

“Are you and Fwhip actually descendants of the emperor Tays?”

She couldn’t help but notice Scott tense ever so slightly at that “ha no we’re not, my dad just thought it would be funny to name us after them since he came from the Grimlands and my moms from here and our last name would be Tay” she explained

“Hey you four if you want to explore the town you should get moving!” Fwhip called down to them,

“Yeah we should go” Gem smiled slightly climbing up the snowy hill “you’re off to the Grimlands then?” she questioned once she reached them

“Yeah i’ll meet you guys back in Dawn tonight” he responded “take care don’t do anything stupid” he smiled before leaving.

Notes:

The Playlist

 

My Twitter

 

4 chapters left :]

Chapter 20: Whispers of the past

Notes:

hooray new chapter

After Fwhip left to go get picked up Gem and the rest of the group headed into the town, not a ton had changed since Gem had left last time but there were a few new places opened.

“Why are so many shops closed?” Owen asked as they walked through another almost empty street, the few stores still opened belonged to newer people.

“Because Crystal Cliffs is a seasonal town most people choose to travel down to Dawn since its warmer there, its been like that since both places were great empires'' Gem explained “now i’m assuming you guys want to explore, so go ahead we’ll meet up near the giant fountain near noon?” she suggested

“Why don’t you give us a tour Gem? I’m sure you know this place better than we ever could” Oli suggested

“Yeah i like that” Owen smiled

“I mean i can try its been a while though,” she warned. The five wandered down the streets, Gem could hear their whispers she knew they had recognized her as a Tay. Her red hair and antlers were too much of a give away. She pulled her hood up with a sigh.

“What's with the whispers?” Owen asked leaning closer

“After my mom broke her oath and me and Fwhip were left we were seen as cursed, it seems that paranoia is still a thing” Gem explained quietly to the others.

Pearls wings bristled slightly as she glared at the nearest person. Who quickly shut up, “hey whats that store?” Oli pointed to the old bakery clearly trying to shift the mood

“Oh thats the bakery i spent most of my summers in” Gem responded happily “i wonder if its as good as i remember” she added as an afterthought

“Well i don’t know about the others but i could eat” Scott shrugged reaching into his pocket

“Are you paying because i’m starved” Owen grinned

“This once i’ll buy you food but you owe me now Owen Owengejuice.” Scott responded “the rest of you don’t have to worry though i’ll pay”

“Not only does he full name me but now i have to pay him back” Owen muttered under his breath once Scott was out of ear shot

“Don’t worry the Boatem crew do it to me on a daily basis” Gem comforted as they entered the bakery. The sweet smells brought memories that had been hidden deep in her mind.

“Hey welcome to Crystal Cliffs bakery feel free to take a look in the displays and at the menu” a brown haired elytrian smiled at them behind the counter

“Oh my gosh you guys still make the beavertails” Gem gasped “i remember eating those when i was a kid” she smiled

“One of those then?” they asked

“Please and thank you” Gem responded quickly, the others eventually settled on pastries and Scott paid, sitting at the corner table Gem sighed contently “i missed this place” she murmured quietly

“I could get behind living somewhere like this,” Oli commented “its homely if you ignore the whispers”

“Doesn’t take long to learn to block them out same old whispers about how you’re cursed get boring” Gem shrugged biting into her pastry, she saw Pearl bristle slightly and Scotts eyes turn more of a ice blue “you two won’t scare them. Crystal Cliffs is home to the biggest power correction center after Lily, you'll just get thrown there.” Gem warned.

“Back when this place was young that correction center used to be a center where people learned to control their magic on their own will.” Scott grumbled

“Times have changed since then Scott. Too many villains” she glanced between Oli Scott and Pearl “have popped up since then and they want to feel like they can control it” a few people around the bakery fell quiet

“I think we all need to lower our voices or stop talking about this in general,” Owen smiled taking a sip of his drink “raised tempers won’t help at all”

Gem took a deep breath “yeah, anyways we’re going to Dawn this afternoon right?”

“Thats the plan” Pearl nodded

“Okay then we should get going” Gem stood up “there’s not a ton to see but since it is a walking town it takes a while to get places”

If the others noticed the shift in her mood as the oppressing feeling that used to haunt her surrounded her they didn’t mention it as they continued on, Gem continuing on like nothing happened.

“Hey i’m gonna go check out that antique store i’ll catch up!” Scott called dragging Owen after him who only sighed in defeat. Pearl smiled as they and Oli walked through the streets towards the amethyst fountain.

“Winnie, get your sisters away from them they’re clearly hybrids-” a mother called from her store front, a teenager rolled her eyes pulling two smaller girls after her.

Gem cursed inwardly that she didn’t hide her wings “So the whole anti hybrid thing is that new or…”

“I mean they always told the kids to be wary around hybrids but i bet after everything with me and Fwhip it got worse” Gem sighed rubbing the back of her neck

“╎ ∴𝙹⚍ꖎ↸リ'ℸ ̣ ᒲ╎リ↸ ᓭᒷℸ ̣ ℸ ̣ ╎リ⊣ 𝙹⎓⎓ ᔑ ⎓ᒷ∴ ᒷ ̇/!¡ꖎ𝙹ᓭ╎𝙹リᓭ ╎リ ℸ ̣ ⍑╎ᓭ !¡ꖎᔑᓵᒷ…” Pearl muttered. Before Gem glared at her

“You speaking in a dead language is going to make this worse.” she hissed. Pearl took a deep breath regrouping herself before the group continued.

The fountain was as expected empty of water and people which Gem found comfort in, she sat down on the edge with a sigh “what was life like when you lived here Gem?” Oli asked sitting down next to her, he plucked at his guitar carefully

“What is this twenty questions? Do i get to learn about yours too?” she asked in return

“Sure you tell me something and i’ll tell you something in return” he shrugged “my lifes been pretty boring but i’ll answer what i can”

“Okay i’ll play along” Gem replied after a moment to think.

Oli nodded “how older were you when you moved to the city?”

“It was our twelfth birthday” Gem answered “what species are you?”

“I’m not totally sure, something from the end though” he answered “do you remember your father?”

“A few fractured memories. I don’t remember much of my childhood honestly. Do you remember yours?”

“No I don't remember the dragon and thats about it. Any childhood pets?”

“A cat when we were really young.” she responded “how old are you?”

“At least a thousand years old” he responded, shrugging “how old were you when everything started to get bad?”

Gem paused for a moment “you don’t have to answer if you don’t want to Gem” Pearl pointed, holding out her hand for her.

“No is fine, it’ll be good to get this off my chest. Me and Fwhip were ten, when our mom broke a vow we wouldn’t hurt anyone with our powers. We spent a year bouncing between random peoples houses while they figured everything out.” she explained taking Pearl's hand.

“I didn’t realize you were that young… i’m sorry” Oli looked sad

“Its fine i don’t remember most of it, its more like a dream you don’t want to remember'' Gem waved it off.

“Oli, can I ask you something?” Pearl spoke up

“Yeah sure” he nodded

“What happened to you after the fall of the empires? You just disappeared” she asked

Oli stiffened, something flashed in his eyes before he answered “i don’t know… nothing has been clear after everything fell apart.” he answered hesitantly.

Before a heavy mood could settle Scott and Owen appeared “hey if you wanna make it to Dawn for lunch we should get going!” he called twirling the keys around

“Yeah lets get going” Gem hopped down heading towards them.

Notes:

a yummy bit of backstory yay
three chapters

 

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Chapter 21: Letters of the past

The drive was short, saving everyone from the dark energy surrounding them. Gem even got to drive since she knew where the old house was. As she pulled into the driveway she began to feel sick.

“Wow for something that's been untouched for years from what you said it looks in perfect condition” Pearl commented

“Dads powers are to freeze something in time. He probably did that the one time he came to visit” Gem shrugged, “feel free to bring whatever bags you want in” she added pulling out a small key that she wore as a necklace.

As the group brought their bags in Gem couldn’t help but pause just staring “it reminds me of some of the ancient house designs” Scott commented

“Old” Oli rolled his eyes

“You were alive to see that architecture.” Scott shot back. Something caught Gems attention on the main table, a sealed letter sat on it with two names in rough handwriting. Gemini & Fwhip was all it said.

“Hey we should go get lunch there’s a really good restaurant a few blocks away” Gem suggested pocketing the letter quickly. It felt like it was a rock even if it was only a piece of paper.

“Its still pretty early i was hoping to at least make sure the hotel was still standing when we got here” Scott responded rubbing the back of his neck “Eloise i trust but Bek…”

“They definitely burnt it down” Owen nodded grinning

“Yeah it is still kinda early, sorry i’ve just got the jitters” Gem apologized “i should go sort out rooms” she added “the living rooms over there feel free to go relax” she added scurrying off. “Rooms rooms rooms…” she muttered under her breath “there's mine, Fwhips which we’ll use, moms room which has the couch so two people and then the guest room… which is one more.” she paused to recount “sun we’re short a bed” she groaned

“No you’re not i don’t sleep remember?” Pearl appeared “i’ll just chill on the couch for a while”

“No i don’t think you ever mentioned that to me” Gem sighed

“Oh that's my fault then, I only need to sleep if I overuse my powers or like once a month just to regain energy”

“Well that makes things a lot easier” Gem sighed her wings drooped tiredly,

“Also these fell when you picked up that letter” Pearl held out a locket and an emerald ring.

“Oh… Thanks Pearl” she smiled weakly, taking them from her friend and pocketing it with the letter. “Sorry, just being back here is messing with me” Gem apologized weakly.

“I bet it is, i’ve visited my old homes a few times before in the past years after anyone who might remember me has passed, i can’t even begin to imagine what you’re going through”

“I’m surrounded by immortals who haven’t had to deal with mortal issues but yet I keep dragging you guys into it,” she sighed, pulling the letter out carefully.

“Gem we’re more than willing to help, we choose to live around mortals i always have i always will.” Pearl pulled her closer under her wings “now what are you doing about the letter?” she asked

“I’m gonna read it, i should wait for Fwhip but if he was here he’d do the exact same thing” Gem explained fiddling with the letter, carefully she opened it and began to read.

 

My dearest sundrop and my strongest boulder,

I’m sorry I was never able to take care of you. I fought for days and months to see you for longer than a few weeks at a time. When I found out your mother died I begged to be allowed to go home to take care of you two but they refused, that was my biggest regret when I found out you were being sent to the city.
I should have fought harder. If you’re reading this it means you’re back in the old house, maybe you’re visiting, maybe you’re claiming it for your own, or maybe you’re bringing your own family here. Whatever it may be I hope you kids have found peace with life.
I’ve left with the letter a locket for you Gemie and for you Fwhip my old emerald ring you always asked for. Take care on your journey through life and remember I love you two.

-Dad

 

Gem swallowed the lump that had built in her throat as she carefully pulled the locket out of her pocket, she managed to open it to reveal a photo of her Fwhip and their parents. Smiling she clasped it around her throat “i’ll have to get a photo of all of us for the other side” she croaked

“We’ll see what we can do” Pearl smiled, hugging her “we should go see what the others are doing.”

Gem took a deep breath composing herself “yeah lets do that and then go get lunch”

Dawn was much busier, full of people going through their day to day life, as she had hoped not many acknowledged the odd group as they made their way through the town. Slowly the sadness that had come with reading the letter faded until it was nothing more than a thought in the back of her mind.

“Is that an ice slide?” Oli gasped

“Huh that definitely is an ice slide i’ve never seen that before” Gem responded

“I’m going down that i don’t care if its for kids” Oli told the group

“I’m coming too” Scott grinned

“Yeah ya know i’ll go seems fun” Pearl went to follow them leaving Gem and Owen who exchanged a glance

“We should follow them” Gem sighed eventually

“Yeah i’m surprised we didn’t get dragged along” he added laughing slightly “hey wait up you guys!” he yelled as they made their way over.

It was a stepper climb than Gem had expected and when the group reached the top a feline smiled warmly at them “you five wanna go together?” they asked

“Yes please” Pearl smiled in return

“Yeah you guys just come stand to the side for a minute while my partner there grabs a five person tube” they explained ushering the group out of the way so others could get past them.

“Hey here’s you tube just wait for that group to go then have fun” they smiled

As the five loaded onto the tube Pearl pulled out her phone to record “hold on everyone” Scott grinned

“No powers Smajor.” Owen fixed him with a look

“I would never” Scott put a hand over his heart in mock hurt “why would you even assume anything like that”

A volunteer pushed them down the hill sending them flying. Gem watched the path shift slightly to create a small as the tube hit a bump they took off only to hurtle back to the ground. The breath was knocked from Gem as she grabbed a tighter hold on Olis wrist. Another skid through the air and the group tumbled into a snowbank.

Shaking snow off Gem slowly stumbled out of the snow bank, Pearl was laughing brushing snow off her wings “oh my gods…” Pearl said in between laughs “thats a video i will cherish forever.” she grinned

“I'm never going on anything like that with you again Scott.” Gem decided brushing off the last of the snow though she couldn’t help the smile that tugged at her lips.

Notes:

two chapters

 

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Chapter 22: Words of the gods

When Fwhip finally arrived he was wearing his hero costume and clearly exhausted. Gem couldn’t help but notice that the others kept their distance until he finally changed. Later when she went to show him the letter she noticed the outfit had been shoved in the trash can.

“How was your interview?” she asked, sitting on the edge of his bed, he paused whatever he had been tinkering with and turned around.

“I got accepted” he answered

“Well thats good!” Gem smiled

“However they said it would be better to give myself a clean start from the hero identity i built so i’m building something new.” he explained holding up a few rough sketches

“Are you going to have an actual name?” she asked

“Yeah, I think I am this time. Any suggestions?”

Gem thought for a moment “Slate.” she suggested

He looked thoughtful for a moment. “I like that” he smiled, sketching a few new details into the outfit. “Thing is, I may have forgotten how to sew…”

“I remember how, and Pearl used to be a professional designer i’m sure she can help you” Gem suggested

Fwhip looked hesitant. “I don't think she likes me very much… i don’t think any of them do honestly” he muttered honestly

“They’re wary around you since you’re a hero. They’ve been hurt by heroes before seeing you in the full uniform causes bad memories. I’ll admit I feel a very similar way sometimes.” Gem comforted “it will take a while but they’ll come to accept you eventually.”

“I don’t want to push my luck…” he sighed

“You’re my brother, they're gonna have to put up with you because we come together.” she held out a hand for him and he took it “they’re not gonna be able to get rid of you”

“Thanks Gemie” he smiled, his face flashing briefly to surprise at the use of the old nickname. “You’ve grown so much since you found them, mom would be so proud.”

“She’d be proud of you too, you’ve done so much” Gem responded summoning a small sun bracelet around his wrist “for peace” she added

He smiled wider as a sun stone appeared in his hand “for peace.” he echoed.

“I’m gonna go try and sleep. You could go try and talk to her if you want.”

“Night Gem sleep well” he sighed.

***

Gem did manage to sleep eventually and once again she woke up she was back in the strange throne room. Scar wasn’t there this time but there was a silvery woman standing there. “Greetings little sun beacon” she smiled

“I know you. Or know of you but i cannot remember your name”

“No you wouldn’t know my name, it's been lost to history. But you’ve met my tethered before” she smiled

“I’ve met a lot of tethers…” Gem murmured mostly to herself as she went through a mental list “you’re Lady Wisdom Bookkeepers tether”

“That i am” she smiled “we need to wait for your friend Grian since the news i have is for both of you” she explained sitting down against a giant altar in the middle of the room.

“Lady Wisdom, may I ask a question?” Gem requested sitting down

“Of course” she nodded

“Where do powers come from? Why have they been given to mortals?” she questioned

Lady Wisdom sighed “i’ve been around since the dawn of time but that's a question not even i can answer. My best guess is that gods as they pass on have slowly lost control of the powers we hold and it’s leaked into the mortal realm” she explained

Before Gem could respond there was a soft purple glow and Grian materialized in front of them, he glanced around nervously his wings fluttering “Lady Wisdom…” he bowed slightly “I wish i could say seeing you was in good spirits…”

She nodded “I understand your disdain for this place but I needed to chat with you two quickly” she glanced around “lets move out of the throne room just to be safe…”

The ground shifted underfoot and they stood in a forest clearing that was silent. “Right I was hoping Pixl would tell you himself but it seems I was wrong. Long ago he received a prophecy about suns tethers being the one thing between the city's peace and chaos.” she explained a vision played in front of them of a bright figure barely balancing over a dark void

“Thats why he wanted to keep us in the hero-corp then…” Grian muttered

“Yes it is… he was hoping to keep an eye on you two and possibly sway you down the right path.” she nodded

“What does it mean though?” Gem muttered

“If prophecies were that simple gods I would have made smarter decisions.” Grian huffed

Lady Wisdom nodded “until the prophecy comes to play its part we’ll have little idea what it means it’s only a guessing game” she sighed “i’ll let you two chat for a minute if you want” she disappeared as quickly as she appeared

“Hows the trip?” Grian asked after a moment

Gem sighed “i had a lot more unresolved issues here then i thought” she admitted

“Sounds about right, if i went back to Manburg i’d probably be in the same boat” he responded sympathetically

“Hows home?” Gem asked

“Its been quiet, apprentice seasons coming up so most of the heroes have been preparing for that” he answered

“Ah apprentice season my least favourite time of year” Gem groaned “a bunch of hotshot new teenagers thinking they’re so much better than me just because they got accepted” she rolled her eyes

“Gods i’m so glad i got out of there before they stuck me with an apprentice” he sighed “did Fwhip ever have one?”

“For a few weeks but then there was an incident… something happened while they were on a mission and the apprentice just disappeared”

Grian nodded he didn’t seem to have the words to respond after that but thankfully they were spared as Lady Wisdom reappeared “there’s fighting among the others i need to get you two out of our realm quickly.” she explained “although Grian-”

“I’m not staying to see anyone. I do my work from earth just fine away from them.” he cut her off his wings bristling.

“Of course take care.” she nodded

Notes:

one chapter left (its not the end i swear)

 

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Chapter 23: The end game

The group left at dawn beginning their three hour trip to Rivendell Pearl had offered to drive since it was clear Scott had barely gotten any sleep the night before. The van was quiet most of the morning, everyone either catching a nap or working on projects, but by the second hour it became clear Gem wasn’t the only one going stir crazy.

“K we have an hour to go but if i sit in this van another minute i’m going to go insane” Oli said eventually voicing everyones thoughts.

“There’s a gas station just up here we’ll pause there and take a break” Pearl suggested slowly pulling into the parking lot. As soon as the door was open Gem hopped out and began just walking aimlessly.

Fwhip reappeared after a few minutes holding a couple of sodas he handed one to Gem before cracking his open, “a caffeinated drink at eight in the morning?”

“I was up till three in the morning give me a break” he retorted “costume design is so much more difficult then i remember gods”

“Did you ask Pearl?” Gem asked reluctantly opening her own drink

“Well…”

“Ask me what?” Pearl popped out of the van

Fwhip turned taking a deep breath. “I got accepted into the Grimlands hero program but they want me to make a new costume and I barely remember how to sew let alone make a full costume… and Gems been trying to convince me to ask you for help.”

Pearl glanced between the two “I could definitely help if you want, you probably don’t remember because you were still an apprentice then but I was one of the main costume designers for the hero-corp for a while” she explained “do you have any mock ups?” she asked

“Yeah a few uhm they’re in the van hold on” he quickly went into the van barely handing his drink to Gem before he left

“Finally getting him to think we don’t hate him?” Pearl asked

“Hopefully” Gem responded smiling “you know how it is they’ve trained him to think villains despise him for everything” she sighed. Pearl looked sad for a heartbeat before Fwhip reappeared carrying his sketchbook.

“Hey we should hit the road again” Owen had the keys in hand and was throwing them between his hands “i’m driving” he added

“You are not you don’t have your license and you nearly crashed last time” Scott sighed taking the keys

“Scott Smajor the man responsible for breaking Boatem out of jail along with multiple other crimes is scared to let someone drive without a license” Oli pointed out

“Oli, keep it down before you get us all in trouble,” Pearl sighed. Oli waved it off with a grin.

“Lets go before we’re caught in traffic” Scott sighed.

As Scott had suspected they’d been caught in traffic people trying to get in one last trip to the mountains before the holidays were over meaning another hour was wasted slowly snaking up the long road.

“Do you guys think I could dye my hair before we get moving again?” Scott asked

“Did you buy hair dye when we were there?” Owen looked confused

“Maybe i did” Scott shrugged smiling

“Do not dye your hair while we’re on the road.” Pearl sighed “Scott please try and be responsible”

“Fine i’ll do it when we get to the house” Scott sighed

“Fwhip you should dye yours” Gem suggested glancing over at her brother

“I wouldn’t look good with dyed hair” he responded running a hand through his hair

“We could make it work” Scott shrugged

“You know what i’ll do it if you do Gem” Fwhip said after a moment, Pearl sighed sinking into her seat more

“Deal.” Gem grinned “I'll dye my hair.”

***

Arriving in Rivendell Gem couldn’t help but stare in awe “this place is beautiful” she murmured

“Welcome everyone to my home and first empire” Scott welcomed “this is the Smajor family home where i grew up” he explained parking. There was a second old beaten up van in the driveway but besides that the house looked ancient which it probably was.

“Would you look at who's finally home.” An elf with purple hair greeted them at the door

“Everyone meet my twin brother Xornoth, mayor of Rivendell,” he introduced, coming to stand next to him.

“Nice to meet you all” Xornoth smiled “please come in you all look exhausted” he offered opening the door. As Gem and Fwhip passed she noticed him stiffen slightly.

“Oh wow this place is gorgeous” she gasped “beautiful colours too

“Its one of the oldest houses around” Xornoth explained proudly “rebuilt after the rapture and where me and Scott recovered after he decided impaling himself was the best way to save the world” he shook his head slightly.

“It worked though” Scott butt in, carrying some bags into the house “hey by the way is Aimie here?”

“He’s shopping but hes home” Xornoth nodded. Scott grinned, heading off. “You must be Gem right?”

“Yep Gemini Tay nice to meet you” she smiled

“Enjoy your stay in Rivendell” he smiled leaving her alone.

“Hey Gem, are you comin to dye your hair?” Scott asked

“Yeah hold on!” The bathroom was decently big which was nice considering how many people were shoving in it at that moment. Only Owen and Oli weren't there.

“Right, so have either of you dyed your hair before?” Scott asked, pulling out two older bottles, a purple and teal.

“I have, it was only natural colours though” Gem answered picking up the purple

“Good enough,” Scott shrugged. “So Fwhip you’re the first timer huh?”

“Yes? Should I be worried?” he asked quietly to Gem

“Don’t be worried i’m a veteran at hair dying you’re perfectly safe” Scott smiled. “You've got a really good natural colour for this” he added, putting on a pair of gloves.

Gem smiled braiding her long hair over her shoulder, she watched Pearl and Scott bicker over the proper way to dye hair as she carefully worked the purple into the ends of her hair. “Fine you know what, if you’re doing it right you dye Fwhips hair and i’ll dye yours we’ll see whos lasts longer.” Pearl threw her hands up,

“Deal. but i’ve been doing this for two thousand years. I think I know what i’m doing.” Scott pointed out

Pearl rolled her eyes “same age i’ve been doing it that long too”

Gem laughed catching Fwhips scared face “you’ll be fine” she murmured going to offer him her hand before remembering the dye that covered her hands and gloves.

***

It was later that evening, the dying hadn’t ended in disaster thank the sun besides Scott nearly getting killed after dying a bright teal streak in Pearls hair “not your brightest moment there Scott” Gem sighed holding a hand over the forming bruise that now sat on his jawline

“I didn’t think she’d punch me” Scott sighed running a hand through him now red hair

“I could have told you that would have happened” Owen grinned “smile Scott” he added taking a photo

“Why are you like this?” Scott groaned

“I dunno i just am” Owen shrugged

“You three ready to go?” Xornoth asked, heading to the door.

***

The group arrived at a small restaurant called The Poppy. When they got there a dark haired person was waiting for them “well if it isn’t the hotel boy” they smiled hugging Scott “whos your friends here?”

“Aimsey this is some of my city friends Pearl Owen and Oli whom you’ve met and these two are Gem and Fwhip” Scott introduced “and everyone this is my little brother Aimsey”

“How i’m related to such an extrovert i wonder some days… nice to meet you all” she smiled “now i’m starving lets go eat”

The group was quickly seated in a big booth with a tv in view. As their drinks were brought out the tv switched to the news channel in bright red text the words Breaking News appeared. An eerie silence fell over the restaurant as the volume was increased, “good evening I’m Mable Winters bringing to everyone a report that at multiple points across the city strange alien like vegetation has appeared throughout the city” she explained “going live to Alex now” the camera switched to a young man standing in front of a dark blue thing.

“Thanks Mable, the strange vegetation has abruptly popped up ten minutes ago, there’s four main parts it seems be be gathered at those being here at the hero-corp the Chromia hotel the prison and an apartment building” he explained.

“For the moons sake please tell me thats not skulk…” Gem heard Pearl mutter

“Whats skulk?” she asked

“A hive mind that controls people and eats its hosts.” Pearl looked grim “i’ve seen it before it killed one of my dearest friends back then” she explained her posture stiff.

“A few heroes are going to investigate, we'll keep you updated” Alex said on the tv.

Nex and Freya, who were really just Shelby and Katherine under new names, stepped closer tense, before they could even get near it, though the thing exploded into a writhing mess. There was the sound of screams on the tv before the camera cut out cutting quickly back to Mable who looked horrified.

“We’ve gotta go.” Pearl ordered “there’s skulk in the city and i’m one of the only people in that gods forsaken city that knows how to deal with skulk.” she explained.

Notes:

welcome everyone to the end game enjoy the final arc

what comes next i wonder?

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Chapter 24: Arguments

Eight people ran through the streets of Rivendell “answer the phone i swear to the gods” Pearl muttered dialing a number into her phone. “Come on come on…” she groaned

Arriving back at Xornoths house Gem started to panic more, things blurred quickly. She remembered seeing someone turn on the tv to the news and she could hear everyone around her making phone calls but she felt useless. Standing there in the hall, Gem realized just how few people she had truly trusted enough to give her number.

No one noticed, too busy trying to get a text, a call, really anything into the city as Gem stared blankly at her phone. As if the gods were watching her phone began to buzz she quickly answered it “Sausage are you okay? How did you get a call through?” tumbled out as soon as it connected

“I’m outside the city thank the moon, me Joel Lizzie and Hermes went to visit my home and we were just outside the city when everything went down. We’re just parked on the side of the road now waiting” he explained “I’m glad you answered we haven’t gotten a single call into the city and from the sounds of it neither has anyone else”

“Yeah i don’t think we’ve had any luck either… i don’t have anyones numbers so i can’t really help so i’m just hoping” Gem explained sitting down on the stairs. “It’s really just a hoping game i guess…” she muttered

“Rens on the radio be quiet” she could hear Joel say through the phone. Gem turned to glance at the tv which now had Ren standing frazzled. Putting her phone down she turned up the volume until none of the others could miss it.

“Good evening… as i’m sure everyone is now aware skulk has invaded the city.” Pearl paused turning to look at the tv “this has always been a threat we were aware of, the plan in place is the emergency evac citizens are meant to leave the city go to any of our nearby cities they will accept you and home you.” he explained “heroes villains and vigilantes i’m calling upon all of you on neutral grounds. Please help your neighbours and be safe.” the tv cut off going back to the news

Pearl took a deep breath “we need to go home.” she said, looking between the others. “We owe it to the city at least even if we are villains”

“I’m coming with you guys” Aimsey said quickly “let me go grab my bag”

Numbly Gem grabbed her phone again “hey Sausage?” she asked quietly

“Hey Gem” his voice answered

“We’re coming home we’ll be there as soon as we can” she told him

“Alright Gem be safe we’ll see you soon”

“Thanks Sausage” she sighed “be safe alright” she added and hung up the phone.

“Gem? Hey, are you ready to go?” Oli asked, nearly running into her.

“Right yep i’m ready to go!” She grabbed her bag and headed out to the van, following Oli.

***

And so the group drove. For two days straight they drove towards the city only pausing for gas. The road was empty heading towards the city, everyone trying to get far away from the skulk. As they reached the edge of the city they were forced to stop as a pair of officers approached.

“Evening folks what do y’all need in the city?” the one asked as Scott opened the window

“We’re here to help with the skulk. My friend here is a scientist that studies the stuff” Scott explained, gesturing to Pearl. Gem felt tense even if there was no reason for it since she hadn’t broken any laws.

“Right well we’ve been told to turn anyone who pops up away so…” the officer began to walk away

“Hang on a moment officer Green this is the group Ren told us to let through,” a familiar voice said “you guys got back here fast” he muttered coming into view “you got room for one more?” he asked

“Yep, Pearl you good to move into the back?” Scott asked as she nodded sitting next to Gem, Gem took her hand squeezing it reassuringly and in hopes to transfer some energy to her exhausted friend.

“So in forty eight hours the skulk has taken over more of the city but thankfully most people have been evacuated, those left are people who were either too stubborn to move or those who couldn't leave.” Techno explained as he drove “there’s a few safe spots around the city but besides that…”

“And the four main locations, how are they?” Pearl asked

“Prison and the hero-corp have been abandoned”

“Abandoned?” Fwhip echoed “how bad was it if they abandoned their base that quickly?”

“The hero-corp was made out of stone and skulk thrives off stone; it would have destroyed the building the second it got close enough.” Pearl explained “probably didn’t help that there was skulk in there already too…” she added quietly

“I don’t want to know…” Gem muttered, sinking into her seat.

“I do, what do you mean skulk under the hero-corp?” Owen asked

“Skulks been an issue in this city for hundreds of years. They just kept it hush hush since i retired from dealing with heroes i left a team in charge of burning any bubble ups that occur clearly they failed at that.” Pearl explained with a sigh

“Here we are the break out point is just up the street” Techno explained parking

“I’m gonna go check it out quickly, I'll meet you guys inside,” Pearl explained, heading in the direction Techno had pointed.

“Wait up, I'll come with you!” Gem called, running after her. As she got closer she watched a mixture of sadness and fear cross her friends face.

They walked in near silence until they reached the skulk. It covered most of the road and surrounding buildings and it seemed to carry a heavy energy. Pearl was quiet, inspecting the damage before she eventually spoke. “Did they ever tell you how Gem of Dawn died?” she asked

“No they only ever say she died protecting Dawn” Gem responded crouching down near the skulk,

“She died from the skulk. She managed to destroy one of these big patches but got infected in the process… it killed her within days…” Pearl explained leaning down and putting her hand in the skulk “that was the first time i saw just how deadly skulk could be besides wardens.” she added as the skulk creeped up her arm.

Gem watched silently as Pearl slid the skulk on her arm into a vial. “What happens once we die, Pearl?” Gem questioned quietly

“You serve your time and then you return to earth. Why?”

“Why do you and Scott seem so nervous around me some days? Why did Xornoth stiffen when me and Fwhip showed up? Why did you look so scared when I came with you? Who was I Pearl?” Gem asked meeting Pearls dark eyes

“Gem…” Pearl looked sad

“Was i Gem of Dawn? Is that why the skulk and me spook you?”

“Yes Gem you were. I don’t want to watch you die again.” Pearl stated her wings fluttering. Her eyes widened “Gem don’t move…” she muttered quietly “for the love of the sun don’t move please”

“Wha-” Gem started before noticing the skulk that had begun to surround her creeping closer

“Gem please i need you to trust me okay?” Pearl muttered holding out a hand “jump to me okay be careful don’t touch the skulk if you can avoid it i’ll steady you” Gem nodded “ready? Jump!” Pearl yelled.

Gem jumped quickly just as the skulk consumed the spot she had been standing seconds ago. Pearl grabbed her hand pulling them both away from the edge. “That was horrifying-” Gem muttered trying to control her shaking hands

“Yeah lets get back to the hotel” Pearl sighed “i swear i’ll explain more okay?”

They walked silently back to the hotel where they were met by Scott Bek and Kathrine in the parking lot “have either of you seen Owen Eloise or Shelby?” Scott asked

“No we haven't, why?” Pearl responded

“Well we had Shubble on bed rest because she was the most exposed to the skulk and I asked Owen to go find El who was checking up on Shubble and now they’re all gone.” Bek explained quickly

“Did Shubble have any symptoms? Uh fever confusion unexplained anger discomfort in light?” Pearl asked her wings bristling

“She did…” Kathrine nodded

“I think we may have our first case of the skulk taking over then.” Pearl said grimly “and I think we’re going to get two more at least.”

Notes:

oops

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Chapter 25: Once again in an alley

Notes:

happy 4 months to me writing this and happy one month to rats ending

Gem stepped into the hotel the lobby was full of people she hadn’t seen in months, many of whom had watched her fake death, immediately Impulse caught her eye and opened his arms as a gesture. Gem sighed falling into a hug “welcome home” he murmured

“Thanks Impulse i missed you guys” she muttered

“You were only gone a week you can’t be that lonely” he joked

“It felt a lot longer” Gem sighed pulling away “and of course as soon as we get back something goes horribly wrong”

“Its part of the job description you’ll get used to it” Scar shrugged cutting in “you’re not very sunny today” he added

“What do you mean sunny?” Gem asked glancing between the pair

“He means when you get happy you tend to literally glow with joy, Grians the same way though he denies it” Impulse explained glancing over at the other sun tether

“I do?” Gem murmured “how have i never caught that before?”

“Might be because you’ve found a place you’re truly happy enough” Scar shrugged

A loud whistle cut through the air making everyone turn towards the staircase where Pearl Pix Phil and Sniff stood “thanks Sniff” Pearl nodded “now everyone as i’m sure you’ve very aware the skulk is taking over the city.” there were murmurs from the people gathered around “and i’m sure by now you’re also aware that three people have gone missing… stay in groups if you leave, always care something you can burn quickly if you need and please for the love of the moon nobody don’t do anything reckless until we get some sense of structure.”

The group disbanded everyone heading to do things, Gem stood silently watching how peaceful it was. The media always portrayed everyone here as enemies but it was clear in this moment just how much they relied on each other.

Eventually she headed to the kitchen Apo and Rasbi were there, Apo glanced over at her trying to hide the look of defeat that had been on his face. Scott and Jimmy were there too, Scott wrapped in Jimmys wings. Gem was quiet slipping back into the main lobby. It was empty now besides Kathrine who was sitting on one of the couches in front of the fire.

“Hey Kathrine…” Gem greeted quietly, the half demon didn’t even look up fully but made a gesture for Gem to sit if she wanted

“I thought you were dead, for months I was guilt ridden because the last thing I said to you was something stupid about your powers being weak. But here we are” she gestured to the apartment “not so weak after all i suppose” she added the hints of a smile on her face

“Thats quite the compliment coming from Nex one of the most powerful women in the city five years in a row” Gem smiled

“I don’t deserve that title there’s so many more deserving people” Kathrine sighed “one of these days we should have a fight”

“I’d love to fight you” Gem nodded, the pair laughed slightly at that “hey listen if you wanna talk feel free to find me i’m always open to chat”

“Thanks Gem make sure to train i won’t go easy on you” Kathrine smiled “anyways i should go rest i’ve been up since four in the morning”

“Sleep well” Gem waved after her, sighing Gem pulled her legs up onto the couch watching the flames crackle.

“Hey Gem” Pearl called in greeting, coming to lean against the back of the couch “you wanna help me burn the skulk out there?”

“Very random question but alright” Gem sighed

“Sweet lets go Mumbo gave me this new thing that explodes into a ball of fire on impact” Pearl explained happily tossing one of the deadly balls into the air between her hands

“If you drop that, I swear to the gods Pearl.”

“I’m perfectly safe” Pearl waved her hand in dismissal.

Gem rolled her eyes summoning a ball of light to light the way to the skulk “it grew” she commented staring at the stuff

“Lets get to burning it then.” Pearl sighed, hurling one of the balls into the skulk the bright blaze lit up the pair in bright orange. “What questions do you have?”

“How did you know it was me?” Gem asked tossing her own ball into the skulk

“Simple you act the same and you look similar. Why do you think so many people have asked if you’re a descendant of one of them?” Pearl explained

“But i’m not a descendant right?”

“Well…” Pearl tossed a ball moving around to the far side “from what me and Scott have figured out most of the time people come back as descendants meaning chances are…”

“Gods thats great,” Gem groaned hurling another blazing ball out “glad to know my dads joke name choice was literal”

“I think its pretty fitting” Pearl smiled, picking up one of the last fire bomb and placing it in Gems hand “aim for the big egg-like guy there” she said pointing.

Winding up Gem launched the ball away, it hit the skulk and there was an audible screech “that was honestly very therapeutic” she sighed as they began walking back to the apartment “though Pearl… every once in a while i have this… recurring dream and you’re always there but you almost appear as a goddess, you’re dressed in an elegant green gown and you have sunflowers in your hair.”

Pearls eyes widened “you never cease to amaze me… from what it sounds like its almost like you’ve managed to find away into your past memories…”

“That shouldn’t be possible should it?” Gem asked

“No it shouldn’t” Pearl shook her head “but you’re not the first Sausage has done it before,” she explained.

By now the pair had reached the apartment and were standing in front of the door, suddenly there was the sound of footsteps, acting on instinct Gem summoned a blade made of light as Pearl reached into her jacket “Gem! Pearl! I found Eloise. I need help” Bek called, waving them over.

Gem immediately ran over leaving Pearl standing there. Near the edge of a smaller tendril of skulk laid Eloise she was unconscious, the skulk creeping over her. The pair was able to hull her out of the skulk with a bit of a struggle. “We need to get her back to the hotel so that i can heal her cleanly. It wouldn’t be the first time i’ve healed someone on a street but I prefer not to…”

Bek nodded, managing to lift up El, “Gem! Bek!” there was a call as a flashlight pierced the darkness. Pearl appeared, Apo and Grian were with her “oh my gods we need to get the skulk off her.” Pearl ordered

“I’d rather heal someone outside of an alley at least Pearl” Gem cut in.

“Alright yeah lets get onto the main road at least” Pearl nodded tensely. Out on the main road it was clear of skulk and they were quick to get to work getting rid of the skulk that clung to her.

As Gem prepared to start healing the wounds the skulk had caused there was the sound of metal scraping on the ground, lifting her head Gem just caught a glance of someone approaching before a steel pipe was launched towards them. Panicking Gem threw up a golden shield just before the pipe hit Apo. he fell back fear wild in his eyes.

“The skulk will destroy you all…” a gurgly voice groaned.

“We need to move.” By now Pearl had a pistol in hand and it was aimed into the shadows. Bek picked up El as the group slowly began to back up. Gem kept the shield up just to be safe as the thing slowly approached, in the dim light Owen appeared skulk covered him more then El.

“Oh my gods…” Apo put a hand over his mouth

“Don’t look just move get to the hotel thats not Owen that is a shell of him thats a vessel.” Pearl explained pushing them farther back. Once they reached the parking lot Owen seemed to disappear leaving the group alone.

Notes:

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Chapter 26: My dreams keep diggin' up the bones of memories

The vast city beyond the parking lot was unnaturally dark as if the shadows clung to every light there was smothering it. The group sat huddled trying to collect themselves. Gem placed her hands over her mouth taking deep breaths and slowly trying to calm down. Her hands were hot on her face, too hot for the average body temperature she knew she needed to get herself in check before she ended up burning herself.

Apo glanced over at her with a look of understanding, powers that could easily change your body temperature were dangerous of course a fire wielder would know what it was like. Taking more deep gulps of air Gem shook out her arms trying to relax.

“Gem are you coming inside?” Grian asked if most of the group had moved towards the door or was already inside. It was just them left and Apo who was pacing his jacket laying on the ground nearby.

“I think if i go inside i’m gonna end up burning myself or someone…” she muttered

Grian nodded “you should take off your hoodie that can’t be helping with your over heating.” he suggested “and maybe let your wings out you can use those to cool yourself”

Gem stiffened at the mention of her wings. She had hidden them for the past few weeks but now at the mention of them she could feel the ache between her shoulder blades.

She sighed tiredly removing her hoodie which was covered in dirt and a few stains of the skulk and allowed her wings out. They hurt to move and feathers fell away, they were messy and she couldn’t help but feel ashamed by them. Grian motioned to them “can i preen them?” he asked

“Why not they need a good preening” she shrugged sitting down on her hoodie

“You know letting your wings get to this state isn’t good for them…” Grian reminded her as he began plucking feathers from them

“I know but after being threatened multiple times that they’d be cut off i found it easier to hide them then to risk anything” Gem murmured rubbing her knuckles together.

Grian was silent for a while before he finally spoke “you’re safe here i hope you know that, none of us would ever do anything to hurt you purposely”

“I know. I knew the heroes wouldn’t have hurt me either but its hard to break old habits” she sighed leaning back

“Can your wings even hold you up?” Grian asked concern now laced his voice

“Surprisingly yes they do or did shocked me as much as it shocked the cops trying to arrest me” she smiled at the memory “but back then i was at least using them somewhat so now probably not…”

“Gods you’re as bad as Scott then” Grian groaned “listen after all this skulk stuff is over i’m going to help you get into the habit of maintaining your wings” he promised “while we’re here who was it who caused this?” he asked reluctantly

“Oh she’s long dead, don't worry i made sure of it.” Gem responded

“I need an explanation for that one-” Grian said, his wings fluttering in surprise.

“Sure lets get inside though i’m feeling a lot better now” Gem suggested, Apo had long since headed inside leaving the pair sitting in the unnaturally dark parking lot. Grian nodded and the pair headed inside, sitting in front of the fire once more Gem sighed.

“Okay this is a really long story but i’ll try and numb it down, as you know me and Fwhip were raised in a powers house after our mom died, you know one of those orphanages for kids whose powers are too unpredictable” Grian nodded “right well the head caretaker there was horrible she constantly took her anger out on us and would punish us over minor things”

Gem sucked in a breath as a harsh memory flooded her mind, Grian opened his mouth “no i’m fine don’t worry” she shook her head before he could say anything “once my powers became uncontrollable, she got annoyed and cut off my antlers in punishment when i wouldn’t stop sobbing over how much it hurt, thats how Fwhip lost his wings when he stood up for me…” she explained.

“Hey there you two-” Pearl started, Gem looked away quickly burying her face in her hands “is everything okay?’ she asked, offering a hand to Gem.

Gem accepted it “i’m telling Grian about something i did in my past” she explained

Pearls eyes widened for a moment before she nodded, squeezing Gems hand once more she sat down. “As we got older she stopped going after me and Fwhip quite as much but I think that's more so because she knew she had broken us down. She ended up getting me a job in some random pawn shop because she decided I wasn't pulling my weight enough.” she sighed “i met a potion maker while working there, she regularly would sell potions for cash there and i don’t know what caused the idea but i decided to strike up a bond with the potion maker”

Gem could hear more people moving around, glancing back towards the stairs she met eyes with Fwhip who looked slightly more rested, without even speaking a word he came to sit down next to Gem.

“Well the potion maker who I came to call Soup taught me a lot, she's the one who helped me figure out how to use my powers properly, and eventually the topic of our upbringing came up, when she found out about everything that had happened she offered to help.” Gem took another deep break “she gave me a vial of poison which i eagerly gave to our caretaker, she dropped dead within the hour of consuming it, police passed it off as unnoticed conditions.”

“We’re lucky thats how they saw it, if they had known you and i would be in the lily system probably” Fwhip said grimly “thankfully they weren’t even going to consider an apprentice hero and an angel in the eyes of all the other caretakers”

“I know i’m thankful the gods were in our favour” Gem nodded

“How old were you two then?” Grian asked

The twins exchanged a glance “sixteen at the time” Fwhip responded

“And Soup was eighteen i think” Gem added

“Sixteen and you’d already killed someone” Pearl muttered in amazement

“I was sixteen too” Grian pointed out

“You’re different, you weren’t in control when that happened” Pearl rebutted.

Before the pair could argue, Bek came running down the stairs “Els awake!” she called.

Pearl quickly hopped up, nearly pulling Gem onto the floor “sorry Gem” she said quickly helping her friend stand up “do you wanna come?” she asked

Gem nodded quickly “Grian, I want to hear that story later!” she added before following the other two.

The rooms lights were low and Gem carefully noted it had been the room she had set up her makeshift clinic a few weeks back. In one of the beds lay El who was looking around in a daze.

“Hi Eloise, how are you feeling?” Pearl asked

“I feel like if i so much as move an inch my heads going to explode” El responded her voice was quiet barely a whisper

“May i?” Gem asked gesturing to El

“Go ahead Gem” Pearl nodded, Gem sighed in relief allowing her powers to relieve the pain of the El

“Thanks” El smiled after a few minutes “i feel better now”

“I’m pretty sure the skulks still too weak to infect multiple people back to back but just to be safe can you tell me what you remember about your past?” Pearl asked

“Pre or post outsiders?” El asked looking slightly nervous

“Which ever you feel more comfortable with” Pearl prompted,

Bek and Gem sat down at the table in the room allowing the other two to discuss. “How was the hotel while Scott was away?” Gem asked clearing off the table of medical supplies

“Its not burnt down which was his main worry so it went well” Bek smiled “how was your trip did you get to meet the rest of the Smajors?”

“Yeah i did they’re nice, uh Aimseys around here somewhere he came with us”

“Yeah i think i caught a glance of them but with all the happening i haven’t had a chance to say hi yet” Bek nodded.

Gem smiled before a yawn consumed her “sorry its been a rough few nights”

“You should go rest thanks for everything Gem”

Gem headed back to her apartment; it was in the exact condition that she had left it in. As the sun began to shine through the open blinds Gem collapsed onto the couch.

Notes:

heading on a trip for the next week so the next chapter probably won't be posted for a while enjoy the backstory

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Chapter 27: The horror and the wild

A week passed before long, it was like clockwork; wake up, check in to make sure everyone's still alive, get assigned a patrol, do said patrol and sleep. There were two types of patrols, burnings which took place during the day and guarding which were at night.

There was a tugging feeling in Gems chest and by the tenth night of the skulk infestation she knew she needed to act. As the sun began to set she carefully grabbed a few of the fireballs from the basket sitting by the door and went to sit on the couch. She waited quietly watching the last patrol head out before she acted.

“Hey Gem” she jumped slightly as Sausage appeared “what are you up to?”

“Hey Sausage” she smiled trying to mask her fear “i’m just you know” she gestured at nothing “i don’t know what i’m doing honestly” she sighed

He nodded “I can't blame you, I'm going stir crazy in here” he sighed sitting down and looked around “so where are you really off to?” he asked quietly

“I wanna go check something out but technically i haven’t told anyone so…”

“I’ll go with you if you want, then if you get in trouble you can argue you told someone and you weren’t alone” he offered “zero questions asked” he added

“Really?” she asked, he nodded in confirmation “thanks” she smiled “we should get moving i have no idea how far we have to go” she added

“We’ll go until we find what we find i suppose” Sausage shrugged waving at Niki who was guarding the door “just keep walking and act natural” he murmured under his breath guiding Gem out of view of the door. “Now where are we off to Sun Weaver?” he asked pulling on his Myth mask.

“I’m not actually sure, in all honesty i just have a feeling i need to go somewhere” she explained “so at the moment… this way” as soon as they stepped foot out of the parking lot the unnatural shadow swallowed them.

“Its so dark…” Sausage muttered

Gem nodded, summoning a small ball of light, even with the light it was still difficult to see much farther than a few steps in front of them. After a short while of wandering aimlessly a subway entrance came into view, the skulk creeping out of it.

“This is the part in the horror movie where one of the cast members dies and we meet the evil…” Sausage muttered reaching into his seed pouch and pulling out a handful of seeds which he littered on the ground “in case we go missing so someone can find us” he explained

Gem took a deep breath before taking the first step into the shadowy entrance. Once it took maybe a moment for her to register it was a maze “why is there a maze here? I’ve been here more times than I can count so why…”

“Follow your gut i trust you” Sausage offered her a hand “worst case we follow the trail where the skulk seems the worst and hope. There has to be a way out, who would make a maze without another way out?”

The further in they went the more unsure Gem got of where she was heading the pull seemed to weaken and then surge back within moments to the point she wasn’t confident in anything.

At one point a pair of rats scrambled down the hall away from them back towards the entrance, it made Gem jump as she squeezed Sausages hand tighter “worrying…” Sausage muttered

“Whats worrying?” she asked

“The rats as they ran by, they just kept repeating something about a man with a spear and needing to run.” Sausage explained

“A man with a spear?” Gem felt sick hearing that but forced herself to remain calm as they went farther in. The sound of humming became audible after a certain point and any composer Gem had left immediately fell away. It became louder and louder until she was certain whoever or whatever was just around the corner. Risking a peak she was just able to make out someone before a scent hit her nose causing her to gag. It was the smell of decay, of wounds left till they sour and finally the smell of the deepest parts of the earth mixed into one. The figure before her seemed cloaked in the smell and the more she looked the more concern formed. They had wings, but not the wings of her or her friends, nor the wings of the avians but almost bug-like wings made of skulk. It dripped from the hideous wings as they moved.

Gem ducked back around the corner taking silent gasps of air, she looked over at Sausage who even in the faint light must have seen her fear because he squeezed her hand tightly. Eventually the humming faded and the pair bolted down the dark corridors until they came to a small clearing.

“This feels safe at least,” she whispered, Sausage nodded, slumping down against a wall. As Gem relaxed ever so slightly she became aware of a looming shadow, as she reached for her knife a wave of exhaustion hit her and Pearl came into view, Impulse and Fwhip with her.

“What are you two doing? You’re just off in a skulk infested maze on your own, does anyone know you’re here or were you just hoping?” her wings fluttered

“Pearl we were fine i swear-” Gem started trying to comfort her friend she spread her arms out trying to offer something and Pearl collapsed into her arms

“Just tell me next time please, we could have set up a proper party.” Pearl sighed hugging her.

The humming became louder again and Gem quickly shoved everyone into a small side hallway shushing them, the humming stopped and was replaced by uneven footsteps, she grabbed her knife gripping it tightly as she moved to block her friends. The smell flooded her nose again leaving her feeling sick, but by some luck of the gods the figure passed. “Who was that?” Impulse whispered

“I don’t know but we need to move” Gem stated the tugging had returned stronger then ever before. Five people ran down a final hall and into the largest clearing yet. An empty subway station sat cold and writhing in skulk.

“This is the hive-” Fwhip murmured

“So it is… and with the hive comes a queen.” Pearl reached into her bag pulling out a handful of stones, protection runes carved into them.

“Well well well the sun beacon walks right into her place” a disembodied voice sighed.

“And there's the queen.” Pearl stated grimly

“Its a pleasure to meet the living sunstone i must say, although the other guests were unplanned for. Oh well it makes this easier for future me. Now let me get a good look at y’all” the skulk shifted underfoot and from it appeared a woman. She was tall and dressed in dark clothes, her hair fell into a perfect wave. “My my what a fine specimen you are” she smiled reaching out to touch Gem.

“Get away from her Nox.” Pearl stepped between the two

“Amaris! I haven’t seen you since you got us both banished. How are you?”

“Drop the act. I'm not dealing with this and stop calling me that, Amaris was a goddess, I am no such thing.” Pearl said her wings bristling defensively.

“Still so formal” Nox sighed “you really never changed, still clinging to your little mortal friends even after everything.” she didn’t even seem to move her feet as she glided past Pearl to Gem, an ice cold hand touched her face pulling her up so she was staring into cold voidlike eyes. “I must admit she’s almost an exact replica of that other one even down to the small scar on her cheek”

“Get off me!” Gem pushed away nearly falling into Impulse who steadied her “creepy skulk lady.” she hissed under her breath.

“These other two also look pretty similar. I must say, that sculpting goddess really stepped it up” Nox seemed like a child surveying a brand new line of toys as she inspected the group. “Ah i’m getting besides the point group deals end up being too awkward for my liking so lets do it this way”

Nox lifted a hand and skulk began to snake towards them as Nox closed her hand into a fist the skulk struck. Winding up their bodies toward their faces. Gem clawed desperately at it trying to remove it as it began to cover her mouth and nose. In her last moments of consciousness she grabbed one of the fire bombs in her pocket.

Notes:

sorry for not posting i was on a trip

anyways meet the goddess of skulk and famine and the mastermind behind all of this

 

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Chapter 28: And every day, I add another stone to the walls I built to keep you safe

It was dark. Nearly as dark as it had been when she and Sausage had first ventured out. Sausage: where was Sausage? Gem looked around for anyone who she had been with, even Nox anything besides isolation. She didn’t get the chance to call out to anyone before the ground shifted again.

Gem now stood in an alley with the others around her “oh thank the moon you’re all okay.” Pearl sighed “listen we’re in her realm meaning she’s in control. Prepare yourselves because knowing her the way she’ll choose to break us is through our worst memories.” Pearl looked grim

“Spot on as always Amar- Pearl… its always a fun game to see who breaks first.” Noxs once again disembodied voice said cheerfully.

“Then whos memories are we in?” Fwhip asked looking around

“I think…” Sausage started looking around “we’re in my memories.”

In a moment of perfect timing a young boy ran through them not even noticing the group. He had goat horns “get back here boy” a gruff voice yelled as a much older man chased down young Sausage.

It was strange, the group was getting pulled unwillingly after the small boy, young Sausage bolted down a busy street but that didn’t stop the man after him. Gem glanced over at her Sausage who looked nervous already. “Thats my father.” he explained weakly “or step father anyways, he never liked me but i guess something snapped this time” he added.

The memory shifted again this time it showed young Sausage racing down a long empty alley into a building. Sausages father was still audible yelling but it seemed safe, “this buildings giving me the creeps and i’m not even here” Fwhip muttered

“Oh trust me i was terrified being in there” Sausage sighed “with good reason too.” as he spoke a person basked in shadows approached his younger self holding out a hand. A second approached from around some boxes cutting off any escape route.

Shifting again the Gem found herself to be standing in a cell. Young Sausage looked older by maybe six months. “I was taken there, they brought me to some lab, i think it was so early version of the lily system, i don’t know honestly. What i do know is i was stuck there for seven months before they did anything. But of course something had to happen.”

A woman is a sterile white outfit stepped into the empty cell a pair of guards flanking her “nice to meet you Sausage my names Doctor Delilah” she introduced “now i heard those horns of yours were bugging you”

“Ram horns at times when they’re growing can get really painful” Sausage explained “normally parents would give their kids just some simple painkillers and it would be fine but here they didn’t care…”

“Please my head is throbbing every day” little Sausage explained gripping his horns

“Of course we’ll make sure that pain’s gone, just sit down on your bed okay?” the doctor said. The younger obliged sitting down “good good” she soothed gesturing for the guards to hold him. The second they held him little Sausage panicked “stop moving at this won’t hurt.” the doctor grumbled a hack saw similar to the one that still haunted Gem in her hands.

Present Sausage looked away “ram horns don’t regrow, cutting mine off meant it was over for me.” he glanced at Gem and Fwhip a look of envy in his eyes

“Oh Sausage…” Gem felt guilty. He wouldn’t be reliving this if it wasn’t for her. She offered him a hand which he took.

“I learned to accept it. I'm fine now, don't worry.” he shook himself glancing over at the now frozen memory.

“So you managed to get through one! Impressive, we'll see how long you can continue.” as Nox spoke it shifted again. This time the group stood in a cavern.

“Is this Gobland?” Pearl gasped

“Gobland two hundred years ago” Impulse sighed “my home”

A slightly younger Impulse stood outside a house two young kids running outside laughing. Next to him stood a woman “i had a good life then, me my wife and two kids i was content as could be. But of course stone crumbles over time”

A small chunk of rock fell tumbling down into the cavern “kids be careful, it seems like there’s loose rocks falling again!” the lady called “its happening so often now maybe we should look into a place higher up” she suggested out of earshot of the two kids

“Maybe we should… it would be nicer to not take the tram to work every day” he sighed “we can look into listings later if you want.”

“We should, it could be good for the kids too” she smiled. The Impulse of the memory smiled back, kissing her head gently before going to play with the kids.

Gem glanced over at Impulse who had a wishful look in his eyes. The memory shifted and it was violent. Unlike the relatively calm before the storm moments that had occurred this was mid incident. The cave was shaking stones and dust falling from the roof. “The Gobland cave in…” Pearl muttered

“Lets go lets go lets go!” Impulse led his family out narrowly avoiding a boulder. Other families ran past towards a tram station, more people were directing them up there

A woman paused looking around “where’s my son?” she gasped “Alex?” she called

“Keep going,” Impulse urged his family going to the woman's side “where did you last see them?” he asked

“Down near our house please find him, we’re the old blue house” she begged

“I’ll try my best go up to the tram station i’ll meet you there” he promised

He pushed through the crowd of people trying to escape, going back down towards the now nearly empty streets “Alex?” he called “Alex your moms looking for you” a large patch of rocks fell nearly squishing him

“Did you find him?” Sausage asked quietly

“No, i never found anyone named Alex in the rubble. I found other people who i helped but never that kid” Impulse shook his head

The scene continued to play as the younger Impulse continued to look, there was a loud groaning noise similar to the one Gem had heard months ago when the apartment collapsed filled the air. The roof caved in, it would have buried the group where they stood if this hadn’t been a memory.

“How did you survive?” Gem asked looking around the grey dusty rock pile

“My great grandfather was cursed by a witch, every male born in my family to live was forced to live until the next man was born, neither of my kids had kids so i’m the last one.” Impulse explained “i never found anyone else after that.”

“This is getting boring” Nox groaned “lets see why not one of you Tays you always tended to have some sort of interesting background”

Gem looked at Fwhip, he was ghostly white, even without thinking to harshly she knew what would be chosen for him “pick your poison” she dared loudly

“I like your bravery little beacon alright you can go next” if she could see Nox she knew the devil would be grinning.

The memory flicked, it seemed to struggle for a while as if cycling to see what haunted her the most before landing on a memory Gem hadn’t thought of in years.

“Oh we’re here” she took a deep breath “welcome everyone to the start of my issues” she introduced “the day i caused my mothers death.”

Notes:

happy memories mhm yeppers

 

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Chapter 29: Me and the devil walkin' side by side

Notes:

somehow finished a chapter in 3 days???

ALSO warning for a description of basically delimbing its someones wings being removed its nothing too bad but it could possibly make people uncomfortable if so stop reading at
"Gem looked over at her brother who was shaking, she pulled him closer trying to keep him grounded" you can pick back up at "“Don’t make vows you can’t keep.” Fwhip responded"

She’d forgotten how bland the classroom had been, two posters were on the wall, one about unstable powers and the other about the stupid ‘speak up, report, receive’ slogan. She had been sitting in class at lunch trying to catch up on some work, three other kids entered the room, they were notorious for going after loner kids.

“Who are they?” Pearl asked

“I don’t remember, they were typical bullies though” she shrugged

“Hey look its a Tay” the leader grinned. “How's your dad been?” she asked “oh shoot” she put a hand over her mouth

Little Gem glared at her “leave me alone”

“Oh but its so fun to rile up you powered folk” the second one butt in

Gem stood up grabbing her stuff “oh come on let us have some fun” the final one grabbed at her grabbing her wing. As a handful of feathers fell into the child's hand Gem turned glaring at them

“Please leave me alone” she asked again

“Scared we’ll hurt your wings?” the first girl asked, grabbing her wing pulling it. Gem chirped panicked, she pulled her wings away “oh the little baby chirped! What other noises can you make?”

“Please I haven't done anything” Gem begged, backing off. One of the others moved, blocking the door.

“I didn’t realize they were pulling on your wings…” Fwhip murmured “i knew that they were pushing you but not that they were after your wings”

“They were bullies they knew to go after vulnerable spots, and them and our lady both knew wings were a soft spot.” Gem shrugged, leaning closer to him.

“Come on little birdie i just want to see your wings” the ring leader said in a sing songy voice chasing after younger Gem

“Lucy i’ll grab a pair of scissors hold her” the second girl called

“No no no please please leave me alone i’ll give you whatever you want-” Gem put up her hands as the third kid grabbed her.

“Perfect! Come on little bird girl let me see your wings” Lucy grinned, it was a grin of evil one that shouldn’t be on the face of a girl who was barely a teenager.

Gem looked away refusing to look instead she turned to look at the others, their looks of disgust, anger and pity made her feel worse. “Gem-” Impulse looked between the pair before holding out his arms. Without a second thought she fell into his embrace.

Before anyone could speak a blinding light filled the room, as Gems powers went haywire for the first time in her life, “i ended up burning all those girls, it was nothing serious they were fine but because my mothers vow we'd never hurt anyone well… it counted.” Gem sighed pulling back from Impulse

“I didn’t realize how badly they hurt you there-” Fwhip looked shocked

Gem took a deep breath “Nox?” she called “let these guys go i’ll talk to you.” she promised

“Gem what are you doing, you’re not going on a suicide mission.” Pearl ordered

“I’m glad you’ve come to your senses but i want to see these last two memories. Lets see how about your brother next” Noxs voice stated

Fwhip looked grim as he took a deep breath. Gem held out a hand, a simple offering of slight grounding he took it gratefully. As expected they stood in the nurses office of the power home, a tall older woman towered over Fwhip, just shy of their fourteenth birthday.

“You are a brat Tay. Always so valiant having to protect your sister, if you had stayed out of this i’d let you go with just clipping your wings.” she spat

Fwhip glared back, his vibrant red wings spread around him. “She was clearly in pain and you did nothing!” he responded

“Watch your tone boy” she warned her voice cold “i’m sick your complaining after i house you two and give you all the care you need”

“Maybe if you actually had any sympathy for what we’re going through i’d be better” Fwhip spat back.

“Sit down Fwhip.” she ordered “i don’t care about how much this hurts, the longer you complain the longer this will take.” Gem looked over at her brother who was shaking, she pulled him closer trying to keep him grounded

The lady picked up a large pair of shears and took to the wing. It was sickening to watch as a mix of red feathers and blood fell to the ground, at some point Gems mind must have begun to block out the sight and she remembered Fwhip hiding his face against her shoulder, Pearl came over putting her wings up to block the view, even without seeing it the sounds of younger Fwhips muffled screams and muscles being cut through was something that would haunt them.

“It’s okay its okay we’ll find a way to get your wings back i promise. If it kills me i’ll get you your wings back i swear” Gem promised trying to comfort him.

“Don’t make vows you can’t keep.” Fwhip responded he looked hollow as he hugged his arms is a poor attempt to self sooth, “i lost my wings protecting you so you better stay alive for me.”

Gem hugged him “i’ll find a way.” she whispered

“Humanity is cruel, easier to cut off the problem at the head instead of finding whatever roots have caused it, I suppose has always been the motto.” Nox sighed materializing “you were always one to try and see the best in mortal though weren’t you Pearl?”

“There has to be good in order for there to be evil” Pearl nodded

Fwhip straightened he was still shaking but he seemed more in control now. “Is this what you find enjoyment in? Tormenting mortals just because you believe we’re all terrible things?” he asked “Nox the denounced goddess of famine thats who you are. Humans looked down on you two thousand years ago and now you can’t grow from that?” something had changed, Fwhip seemed cold, an untapped source of rage buried just below.

Nox turned an equally cold look in her eyes, “i’d shut up if i were you, you have to remember i have total control over your body right now i could crush every bone in your body…” she threatened “you know what i’m getting sick of this. Lets do it this way.”

The world went dark when it brightened Gem was standing in a clearing none of the others around, there was a strange feeling that seemed to surround her similar to being wrapped in a blanket. “Alright Nox lets talk, i’ll listen to whatever you’re trying to sell me on” Gem crossed her arms in front of her chest

“I’ll be honest of all the mortals i’ve had the displeasure of meeting you have been the most interesting. Being the former goddess of desires i’ve been able to glimpse into peoples minds and see peoples desires. Most are selfish or only about a few people but you” she smiled “you however, none of the things you desire revolve around you only your friends.”

“What do you mean?” Gem asked, confused, she had lots of desires related to herself like…

“You don’t care about yourself just pleasing those around you, i could help you do that!” Nox looked excited “here let me explain” the clearing shifted to the city, or a version of it anyways, skulk surrounded buildings but it seemed calm, Nox looked happy “as much as i dislike mortals you guys are perfect for becoming occupants, my goal is to provide whatever is wanted by them and exchange they help me.” she explained “like Owen, i have him wings again in exchange for him guarding the maze” she gestured to the man the bug like wings on his back folded as he walked past.

He was smiling happily as he chatted with someone… Their face was hard to make out, they seemed to shift constantly, they almost looked like Scott but none of his features were quite right. “The one downside is that the skulk needs to feed so it feeds on its hosts, but with you healing them we’d survive. I get to be worshiped again and you see everyone around you happy and complete again”

Gem looked around, it almost felt homely here “i don’t know” she murmured “there’s no proof it would work out like this”

“I’m sure you’re aware of the prophecy looming over your head, does this look like chaos to you? This is what the prophecy spoke of” Nox looked thrilled

“Can i have some time to think?” Gem asked, Nox nodded, gesturing for her to explore.

The city did genuinely seem happy, the people she passed seemed content even if their faces were obscured, no crime and no one rushing around stressed it seemed like paradise.as she was walking her eyes landed on Fwhip, she walked over going to see if he was happy, when she met his eyes something cold filled her replacing the wonder she had felt.

***

“One thousand years ago you managed to get me exiled simply because you were sad.” Nox forcefully lifted Pearls head so their eyes met “you were the one who caused the crops to fail and you blamed it on me! Your idiot friend chose to go against the skulk!”

Pearl stood up ignoring the crushing pressure that consumed her “you knew how much i cared about them and you still planted your seeds there even after i told you not to” Pearl glared angrily at her

“I’m a deity of chaos of course i was going to go against what you told me” Nox crossed her arms

“Stop using that as an excuse. I've met the god of chaos, he has nothing good to say about you.” she spat, she’d never been more thankful to still have her powers as she summoned her twin scythes “hes disappointed his predecessors were unable to control themselves over the smallest things.”

“I think the gods have gone soft. What happened to the time where they cast wastes of energy down to earth? Or is that still too sensitive of a subject, Amaris?” Nox tipped her head to the side summon a long sword into her hands

“There’s a reason you got cast out.” Pearl lifted her chin as the crushing pressure tightened making her gasp for air.

“For a goddess of war you’re pathetic. What happened to the arm of wolves they used to tell horror stories of? Too weak to summon a wolf?”

***

Fwhips eyes were wrong his usual blue eyes were replaced by a dull black colour the same as Noxs, looking around Gem started to realize everyones eyes looked like that, dull lifeless, these weren’t humans that surrounded her but lifeless puppets.

“Gemini i’m glad i managed to find you” Nox smiled “what do you think its pretty cool right?”

“Its very cool” Gem responded trying to keep her wings from ruffling, the air carried the slightest scent of decay “i however don’t think i’ll be able to join you here”

“What?” all the joy melted away, it suddenly felt freezing “what makes you say that?”

“You have zero idea what the city would look like if you win, you're just hoping.” Gem responded carefully, scanning her face for a change.

“Are you aware of your circumstances Gemini? This isn’t really an option, I was hoping to give you control but there’s always the backup.” The blanket-like feeling changed now it was a pressure wrapping tightly around her.

“You saw what happened every time something overly stressful has happened to my body. What makes you think this will be different? And I know you don’t like light.” Gem threatened spreading out her wings

Nox looked annoyed. I can't keep my mind split between fighting both of you gods damn it” she hissed “fine.”

The world went dark again. Gems head was pounding when she finally managed to open her eyes, she was cocooned in skulk Pearl next to her just as wrapped up, she looked injured.

“This would be so much easier but of course your morals would end up causing issues, this is why its so much easier to talk to skulk.” Nox grumbled

“Where are the others?” Pearl asked

“I sent them back, they're not what I was after today, getting you two under control will be hard enough they can wait.”

“Oh you’re an idiot then? Old age must be getting to you Nox. they’ll go back tell the others and you don’t think they’ll find a way to your hive?” Pearl smiled

“You don’t have a way to reverse the skulk yet. And all the knowledge would die with you.” Nox responded, Pearl went silent after that. “Now Gem i’ll give you one final chance to reconsider,”

Gem glanced between the two and she readjusted herself to the best of her ability in the skulk prison, “maybe you’re right, maybe i was too brash… humans really are an issue. But how would you feel working alongside a mortal?”

“There’s ways i could make you immortal” Nox quickly spoke up “you could be a goddess of whatever you wish they’ll worship you”

“That does sound intriguing however…” Gem paused “i can’t think in this skulk” she hissed under her breath

The skulk cocoon fell away quickly “what do you need?” Nox asked stepping closer, she now stood just out of reach,

“Well…” Gem glanced over at Pearl. The look of betrayal and disgust made her feel guilty. She shook her head turning to Nox again “I need you to rethink why I would ever join you.” before anyone could react Gem launched herself at Nox exploding the fire bomb at their feet the second she grabbed the devil.

Notes:

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Chapter 30: Racing down the halls

Gem wasn’t fire resistant, sure she was able to withstand the heat because of her powers but she still burned, she learned that fact pretty well months ago when she had helped Joel rescue Hermes and Sausage.

There was a blood curdling screech as Nox pulled away the skulk that had covered the floors pulled back leaving it empty, the cocoon around Pearl fell. “You are an idiot” Pearl muttered pulling Gem away from the flames

“It was that or death so” Gem croaked, she felt sick she was healing herself as fast as she could but some of the wounds had gotten deep. “Lets go home” she murmured trying to stumbled towards the entrance before early collapsing.

Pearl rolled her eyes, scooping her up, “do you remember the way out?” she asked darting out of the clearing

“I hope so” Gem responded “i didn’t think this part through honestly” her head felt fuzzy and her ears were ringing, Pearl nodded diving around a corner

“The next time we meet i will kill you both” Nox screamed her voice echoing off the walls,

“So you know here from your past?” Gem asked, the pain had started to feel almost numb

“Its a long story but yes i may have gotten us both exiled from the gods realm” Pearl sighed

“Oh wow no wonder she hates you” Gem commented, she felt loopy, now the world spinning around in her foggy mind.

Pearl chuckled, they ducked down another corridor and immediately Pearl froze, Gem turned her head, blinking swirls from her eyes as she focused on Shubble, “Shubble…” Pearl muttered

“Pearl, Gem nice seeing you here” she smiled the skulk crept around her ankles as more patches shifted on her arms,

“Listen why don’t you come with us we can help you” Pearl suggested stepping closer,

“Orders are orders” Owens voice piped up, Gem glanced over Pearls shoulder to see him, a sharp metal pole pressed against the back of her friends neck. Pearl sighed helping Gem stand, her legs wobbled and she nearly fell leaning heavily on Pearl.

“Any plans?” Pearl whispered

“I have one, you’re probably going to disprove of it though soo…” Gem whispered back “when i say run, run.” she added

Pearl looked worried but nodded,Gem slipped the other fireball out of her pocket into her hand, Owen must have seen her. She watched his eyes widen and his mouth open to warn Shelby before his eyes seemed to flash orange just for a moment.

The dull dead black changed for a moment to the vibrant glowing orange she had become familiar with, “go” he hissed his voice barely a breath.

“Run.” Gem ordered Pearl raced past Owen into the tunnels leaving Gem standing between the two, the moment of humanity had passed and the spear was raised to her throat, “i’ll have to make this up to you two some day” she muttered throwing the fireball at the wall next to them.

Gem ran; she was shaking from healing; she knew it wouldn’t be long until she was either collapsed from exhaustion or sickness, one thought consumed her mind, run. Footsteps echoed after her “gods damn this all, let me catch a break” she hissed ducking down what she hoped was a side corridor.

“Gem we could talk, that's all i want to do'' Shubbles voice called, Gem slipped the dagger she always carried out of her boot and attempted to slow her breathing, her gasps for breath would be a major give away. The footsteps seemed to be getting closer and Gem put a hand over her mouth hoping that would be enough.

“We really don’t need to draw this out any longer Gemini” Noxs voice now filled the silence “i’ll give you another chance, i’ll even give you whichever one of your friends you want to talk to as a servant” she was just around the corner “we just need to chat” the footsteps paused. “Found you.” Nox whispered right in her ear.

Fight or flight kicked in, in an instant Gem stabbed blindly hoping to hit the devil, “i’m not joining you” she yelled, before shock hit her, Shelby was the one in front of her with a dagger now lodged in her gut.

“Well I suppose it was only a matter of time till you ended up stabbing someone…” Nox tsked

Gem pulled away until she was trapped, her back against the wall “leave me alone.” she begged

“Friend or enemy paranoia would have ripped you to shreds and someone would be injured at your hands” the shell of Shubble smiled as the blade was ripped out, metal clattered to the ground as Shubble fell.

Nox appeared in her own body now, “humans such fragile little beings” she sighed stepping over the body, she placed a hand on Gems face forcing their eyes to meet, unlike Scott and Pearl who had hidden galaxies swirling in their eyes or Grian with his stormy eyes these were the eyes of a corpse. Eyes Gem had stared into only once before the night she had killed a woman.

“I suppose if you refuse to join me you’ll still be of use, a golden bird in a cage,” Nox smiled,

Caged, the word echoed over and over again in Gems mind “i’d die before getting caged” she whispered

“What was that?” Nox asked tilting her head

“I’d rather die than allow myself to be caged.” Gem spat, she knew it was stupid but at least there was some truth to her words, she allowed her powers to sputter to life as she began to glow a mini sun in the dark maze, she would either die of her powers corrupting or exhaustion but at this point she accepted that fate.

Noxs scream filled the air followed by the sound of voices “down here hurry!”

As black spots began to dance in Gems eyes she watched Sausage round the corner “i’m not leaving here empty handed you’ll have to do.” Noxs voice had changed, it wasn't calm, it was barely human, she was unable to move as she watched Nox run towards the man grabbing him as the skulk consumed them.

“Sausage!” Gem cried trying to move, willing her body to do anything as the dark spots blinded her.

***

“Well she’s gone through quite a traumatic experience. It'll probably be a few days before she has enough strength to even move” Nikis voice explained, she sounded far off and it was hard to hear anything over the loud ringing in her ears but it was something.

***

Gem dreamt it was a dull sort of dream with little happening but it was better than the darkness that was around the edges of her mind, as dull as it was Gem was grateful for the peace. On what she could only assume to be the third day of her silence something changed, the clearing changed, replaced by a void.

“Greetings Gemini” looking around wildly her eyes landed on a pair of what she could only assume were gods “welcome to the edge” the blonde one spoke

“The edge?” Gem asked looking around

“The edge of life and death” the second one explained “every once in a while mortals end up in a case where they could recover but their mind refuse to let them, think of this as a therapy session to give you a chance to go back before you join my realm” the second one explained pushing some pink hair out of its face.

Gem was silent as she consumed the information, part of her wanted to know why they thought she didn’t want to go back but the other parts knew. “So then i’m assuming you must be life and death?” she asked

“Mercy not life” the blonde demon corrected her “i’m the goddess of mercy, it however is the god of death” they added

Gem nodded “should we start? I’m sure your friends must be getting nervous at this point” Death asked

“Yeah lets do it” Gem took a deep breath trying to hide her nerves.

“Now Gem if i remember correctly there’s a prophecy hanging over your head thats yet to be completed” Mercy asked “meaning if you die then the prophecy falls into chaos”

“Well… yeah i guess so” Gem nodded, death placed a hand on her shoulder, it was cold and sent chills down her spine “Grian could complete the prophecy it never specified it was me. He could probably do it better than i ever could” she spoke against her will, saying words she had kept hidden deep down.

“Grian is only a sun tether out of necessity you are one because you were chosen,” Death explained “he would rather stay as far away from prophecies as he can”

“He could still complete it though” Gem reasoned

“You’re one of the few healers willing to heal everyone” Mercy pointed out “most stick to specific sides”

“Thats true yeah but i don’t want to just be known as the healer. I’m a human, I'm not just their magic way of getting better.” Gems wings bristled

“Now if you were to die now do you think they’d honour that wish?” Death asked “i sure can’t see them doing that, maybe a menace if you’re lucky” it added “i’m not one to encourage spite but living simply for that is definitely a way to improve the chances”

“I live purely to spite old Death here. I encourage it completely” Mercy murmured grinning, Death let out a sigh shaking its head slightly “no but seriously if you died now they won’t care that you were more than a healer.”

Gem sighed “and your friends and brother you’re one of the few pieces managing to hold the heroes and villains at peace your death could very easily destroy that” Mercy pointed out.

At that moment it was light a spark had caught “wait a minute… maybe the prophecy means i have to stay alive in order to keep it from falling into chaos” her wings fluttered “how do i get back i need to go”

“You have to wake up” Mercy explained quickly “give yourself a minute or two” they explained as Gem began to fade.

“So… how exactly did that work?” Death asked quietly

“I have zero idea but she’s not dead so…” Mercy shrugged,

“A wins a win I guess.”

Notes:

Hey there you, the goddess Mercy is played by my friends oc this chapter and you should read their fic

 

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Chapter 31: There ain't no hell for the fire watchers daughter

Notes:

happy chapter 30 guys

Waking up felt like waking up after having a nap after a long day at school. Her mouth felt full of cotton. Looking around she became aware she was lying in a nest of blankets and pillows on the floor, everything ached. Stumbling to her feet she slowly made her way out of her bedroom and into her living room, the silence was enjoyable though every slight sound still sounded so loud to her.

Filling up a cup with water Gem sat on the couch, she felt numb as she carefully sipped the water. The sound of her door clicking open caught her attention, turning she was relieved to see Jimmy and not Pearl or Fwhip. “You’re awake!” he gasped

“Yeah i’m awake” she smiled “back from my talk with death too” she added

“How are you feeling?” Jimmy asked leaning against the table

“I’ve definitely been better everything still feels so fuzzy” she responded shrugging “i’m amazed how well everythings healed up” Gem added, for once thankful for the old mirror in the corner of the room, darker scars splattered her skin seeming most concentrated around her legs and left arm.

“I should message the others to tell them you’re awake” Jimmy murmured, pulling up his phone, Gem felt a twinge of dread at that which must have shown on her face since Jimmy seemed to catch it. “Too soon still?” he asked

“Yeah… i don’t know if i can bring myself to look any of them in the face after how stupid that stunt was” she sighed sitting down again and pulling her legs up to her chest.

Jimmy was quiet as he sat down next to her “i think your stupid stunt is gonna be what gets us through this whole uh disaster” Jimmy offered “you found one of the biggest patches possible from what Pearl said.”

Gem was still quiet the ringing that had haunted her before returning “i nearly got Pearl killed, i nearly got everyone who went after me killed is Sausage even free?” she asked, desperate was the best way to sum up how she was acting,

Jimmy shifted slightly “we found Sausage last night, the skulk got to him but he’s here”

“Nox was right we don’t know how to get rid of the skulk…” Gem murmured resting her head against her knees, they were both silent for a while until the door clicked open again.

Gem lifted her head meeting eyes with Grian for a silt second before looking away, guilt gnawed at her the longer she was awake. “I thought you were supposed to message the group chat if she woke up?” Grian asked

“I asked him not to” Gem answered “i wanted to just have a moment to breath and collect myself” she explained looking back up at Grian, some small part of her screamed to look away, after seeing the horrors of death in Noxs eyes she was scared of what other secrets might lay in others, “let me go get changed and i’ll tell them myself okay?” she managed to smile

“Lets leave her be, Tim come on” Grian ushered the canary out of the room leaving Gem alone once again, she took her time getting ready even showering though the water left her skin burning red, when she got out she became aware of something crawling under her skin.

A dark blue patch that she would have thought for a bruise if not for the slight movement “oh gods…” she muttered a sick feeling growing in her gut, she went to grab her medkit looking for the scalpel, it wasn’t uncommon she had to dig something out of a wound before healing it but never had she done it on herself. The thing was just below her elbow. “Okay breath you’ve done this multiple times before” she muttered to herself.

As she sliced open the skin just above the blue patch her worst fears were confirmed, skulk spilt out of the wound wrapping around her arm. Somehow the skulk had gotten under her skin and she couldn’t get rid of it. Panic filled her as she tried clawing the skulk out and she started to realize just how futile it was. Gem took a deep breath healing the wound again, she was shaking slightly as she finally sent a simple message “i’m awake” was all it said.

Gem swore she was able to hear footsteps racing down the hall before her door opened. Pearl was the first one through and she quickly hugged Gem “you’re alive! I thought you were going to die running off like that”

“Yeah it’d be too easy if you got rid of me that quick” Gem murmured

“Are you alright?” Pearl asked, letting go of Gem “like emotionally, I can't imagine what experiencing that again was like.”

“Well it certainly wasn’t pleasant but i see that scene a lot already when it plays in my mind it doesn’t hurt me much anymore,” Gem promised hugging Pearl

“Hey sunlight” Fwhip called “nice to see you awake”

Gem rolled her eyes letting go of Pearl, she hugged Fwhip. It was a silent exchange between the pair but it seemed to hold the weight of their relationship. Others showed up excited to see her awake and while she was excited to see everyone deep down she just felt numb.

After a while everyone left leaving her alone again when a final knock caught her attention, “hey Gem”

She turned “hey Joel whats up?” she smiled tiredly

“Well i was wondering if you wanted to come for a walk” he suggested

“Sure maybe you can fill me in on what i missed” Gem smiled following him. “Lets start simple how long was i out?”

“Four days” Joel answered “i think exactly it was four days and twelve hours” he added

Gem let out a sharp breath “thats a new record” she murmured “two days was only old record and i was awake in points throughout it” Joel looked concerned “right um, what happened with the skulk?”

“Everyone in the maze was found besides Nox, since we still don’t have a cure they’re all in a quarantine basically” Joel explained, they paused outside Joels apartment “i gotta grab Hermes, i hope thats alright”

“Of course!” Gem smiled leaning against the wall as Joel went in quickly, he returned after a moment the young boy with him, Gem waved at him as the trio set out again “whos all been infected?” she asked

Joel sighed “Owen and Shelby as you know, Sausage, Tommy and Krow.” he answered “Lizzie and Jimmy both had close calls and Lizzies still out of action” Joel added

“Its getting worse then…” Gem murmured

“Much worse, we don’t know what to do with those who are infected since we have no way to purge the infection out yet” Joel nodded “you’re gonna wanna see what the outside looks like for yourself” he added calling the elevator. After it arrived they headed to the roof, the door opened and Gem fell silent.

Skulk had crept up and devoured every building that surrounded them she stepped out onto the roof. The scene around her made her feel sick. She had a feeling if there had been anything in her stomach besides water she would have thrown up. Forcing herself to not spiral, Gem looked around the surrounding area more closely walking slowly out onto the roof, when she reached the edge of the roof she paused, staring over the dark city.

Joel came to stand by her side placing Hermes down “its all being devoured.” Gem murmured

“Devoured and replaced” Joel nodded. Gem was silent as her brain struggled to process everything that had happened. No spoke for what felt like hours until the sound of the elevator broke the silence.

Gem turned to see Scott and Martyn stepped off “well you look like you’ve seen through hell and back” Martyn commented coming to stand next to them

“Feels like it too” Gem responded she could feel the faintest tug of a smile on her lips

“Gods it does smell like death out here” Scott muttered

Joel tapped her on the shoulder “I need to go talk to Grian. Are you good to hang out with them?” he asked quietly

“Of course i am, thanks for everything Joel” Gem smiled “bye bye Hermes”

“So what was the maze like?” Martyn asked

“Not fun honestly, i don’t know what was worse though the feeling and sound of the skulk or Nox” Gem answered jumping up to sit on the wall

“Oh good old Nox” Scott sighed “she tried killing me a thousand years ago she really didn’t like the original Chromia”

“Is there anyone from your past who hasn’t tried to kill you at some point?” Martyn pointed out

“At this moment i can’t think of anyone whos still alive but i’m sure there’s someone” Scott admitted leaning against the wall “yeah i made a lot of enemies”

The sound of footsteps drew Gems' attention away from the pairs bickering. El burst out of the stairwell gasping for breath. She paused for a moment before yelling “Owen’s getting weaker by the moment, i think this may be our final chance to cure him.” with that the world went cold.

Notes:

oh look its a set up for angst

 

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Chapter 32: this here is not singing, I'm just screaming in tune

They took the stairs, sitting in the elevator down would have made all the anxiety swirling in the air worse. Gems lungs burned for air as she followed Eloise and Scott to a lonely seeming apartment.

Pearl and Apo already stood on the room they looked concerned “well if its so bad he won’t even move then i think its our only option.” Pearl sighed

“Whats your only option?” Scott asked

“Burning the skulk out like an infection.” Pearl explained “it worked with Jimmy back then, it would work now” the pair of immortals seemed to share a wordless conversation before Scott nodded.

“Right we’ll see how this works” Scott sighed

“How can i help?” Gem asked

“You’re going to help Apo burn this out” Pearl explained “since you can wield your powers in a physical manner i want you to restrain Owen if he tries to attack either of you.” she looked nervous “and if it doesn’t strain you too much i want you to heal him the second its done”

“I can do that alright” Gem took a deep breath shaking out the nerves, she looked over at Apo who looked paler then he already was.

Together they stepped into the dark room, small patches of skulk covered the walls though it seemed to struggle against the banishing wards that were in every corner of the room. Owen laid on the bed, he looked sick; the deep blue skulk that surrounded him seemed to cast him in a light glow. His eyes were glazed over in a nearly feverish state.

“Hey Owen” Gem said, he looked over a faint look of recognition flashed in his eyes for a moment before they clouded over again

“This is more disturbing than him nearly impaling me” Apo muttered,

“Right lets just get this done this” Gem murmured summoning her powers to surround the skulk covered man Apo followed suite and Owen disappeared in a ball of flames

Gem didn’t take her eyes off the bright blaze, it took all her control to keep her powers from sputtering out and even more control to keep them from going haywire, she watched skulk fall away burning to nothing more than ash when it hit the ground. A pained scream split the air, Gems powers wavered and she watched Apos flicker too.

The door opened and Scott rushed in, Pearl right on his heel. “Let him go” Pearl ordered, the pair let him go. The skulk was gone leaving Owen riddled with wounds, some cutting down deep into his flesh.

“Is he alive?” Apo asked.

Gem stepped closer placing two fingers on his neck checking for a pulse “he’s alive” she sighed relieved “its not a strong pulse but its a pulse, he’s going to need internal healing though my powers can’t do that much”

“Els making a potion right now” Pearl answered “take a break Gem you’ve done enough” she added quietly “go rest”

Gem for once was inclined to agree, her body burned from the heat of her powers and she felt exhausted “yeah feel free to wake me but i’m going to sleep”

***

Gem slept fitfully. It was a dreamless sleep that she seemed to wake up from every other hour to the sound of people walking around. By the time the sun had begun to pour in through the window she didn’t feel any more rested then the night before.

No one disturbed her as she took her time slowly getting ready, no one trying to talk to her. By the time she was ready the sun was well into the sky, she went down into the lobby, the smell of coffee and food immediately reminding her she hadn’t eaten more than whatever liquids they’d managed to get in her system in the past four days. Following her stomach she made her way into the kitchen.

“She lives” Oli grinned

“So i do” Gem smiled, pouring a cup of coffee, sipping the bitter liquid she grabbed a muffin and another pastry before sitting down “where were you yesterday?”

“I was asleep when you woke up and i just decided i’d bump into you eventually so” he shrugged to finish his sentence.

Pearl walked in stretching out her wings, she looked tired as she grabbed a cup of coffee “you look like a zombie” Gem murmured

“I need to recharge its getting to that point” Pearl yawned

“Go sleep then why are you still awake” Oli pointed out

“I have a meeting or something i can’t remember, speaking of which Gem you’re in this meeting” Pearl added “its at…” she glanced at a clock “its in a minute oh we gotta go-”

“I was just trying to eat something” Gem groaned, Oli gave her a sympathetic look as she grabbed a few more pieces of food before following Pearl.

They were in the meeting room that the Boatem members had met in after being rescued from the prison; this time in the room stood; Ren, Grian, Phil, Pix, Niki, Eloise, Apo and Tango. “There they are,” Ren smiled. Gem smiled back, tucking herself into a corner content to just listen.

“Yeah thank you all for being here” Pearl nodded “i’m sorry for the short notice as well” she paused looking around the room, “we’ve found a way to remove the skulk from infected”

“How?” Niki asked looking slightly skeptical

“Burning out like an infection.” Pearl answered

“That doesn’t seem that safe” Phil pointed out “you’re what literally burning people?”

“It takes some control but me and Gem managed to pull it off” Apo spoke up

A few people turned glancing at Gem, “you had Gem healing though you wouldn’t notice” Grian shrugged

“I was barely keeping a heated ball around Owen. Do you think i was managing that well?” Gem countered picking at her muffin “you know what my powers are like Grian”

“We could give it a test, one go on someone who wasn’t nearly dead already.” Eloise suggested “Shelbys getting weaker, if we test it on her and it works then maybe we should go with it”

Tango glanced over at Pearl “hows Owen now?”

“Alive he’s weak but he was so far gone already that we believe its just a result of that” Pearl answered “Scotts watching over him right now”

“We can try then if everyone else is alright with it” Ren nodded “i trust the judgement of people who know what they’re doing”

There were murmurs as everyone quietly agreed, the group had begun to break up, leaving, Gem remained quietly eating as a few others chatted, by the time she finished everyone had left, leaving her alone in the larger meeting room.

“You having a nice time sitting alone?” Grian asked appearing

“Oh you know just enjoying my first meal in a week” Gem shrugged “i’m not bothered to move back downstairs or to my place”

“Fair enough” Grian shrugged sitting down “are you feeling alright?” he asked quietly

“Yeah i’m fine, why wouldn’t i be?” Gem nodded

“I mean overall Gem, you’ve been through a lot i just wanna check up on you” Grian sighed fidgeting with his hands

“I’m alive, the memories Nox may attempt to hold against me can’t hurt me anymore, I see them every night when I close my eyes. Nothing like that affects me” Gem answered smoothing out her outfit

Grian sighed nodding “you’re strong Gem, I admire your skills.”

“Thanks” Gem smiled a small feeling of happy blooming in her chest, “you’re quite an inspiration to me too”

“Now you’re just saying things”

“No genuinely the way you’re able to control your powers so easily, like how the media only really focuses on your ability to see with it, its so cool to me” Gem explained watching his face light up

“I think you’ve already managed to figure that stuff out on your own” Grian smiled looking down “however i do think you’re long overdo for a training session” he stood up before offering a hand.

“So it seems i am” Gem sighed taking his hand “its been a few weeks huh.”

Notes:

hey guys expect a new au soon because a hyperfixation hit me :)

 

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Chapter 33: Betray the moon as acolyte on first and fierce affirming sight of sunlight, sunlight, sunlight

Dodge there. Try and land a blow now. Move your feet. The nice thing about fighting is it left Gem with no time to dwell on anything, she needed to focus completely on not being taken down. The way Grian moved so easily with his wings made her envious as she watched him carefully balance himself. A harsh whack against the side of her rib cage brought her back out of her mind.

“You’re focusing too much on my movements and not my weapon” Grian corrected

Gem groaned, that was going to leave a bruise, she swung her staff down barely missing Grian, that movement left her exposed and Gem barely had time to launch herself out of the way as a staff nearly hit her. Dropping into a crouch she kicked as Grians feet and swept him to the ground. Jumping up she placed the staff against his neck.

A flicker of mischief crossed the elytrians eyes and before Gem could react his staff pulled the groundout from underneath her causing her to fall. She lifted her arm to shield her face as he quickly jumped to his feet. Like that the fight was done. “What did you do wrong?” he asked helping her up

“I got cocky and forgot to think about the fact you were still armed” Gem sighed, gingerly touching her ribs to make sure it hadn’t left more than a bruise. “How do you fight so well with your wings?” she asked gesturing to her own useless wings

Grains face softened “fighting with wings is like fighting with an extra pair of limbs, you have to learn to maneuver around them and when to use them to help yourself” he moved carefully his wings spreading to balance him, “i think if anything we need to start with some flying lessons for you”

“I can fly” Gem pointed out, something about needing flying lessons embarrassed her more than she was willing to admit.

“Gem, you pretend your wings don’t exist most of the time until you’re forced to stretch them because it's causing you pain.” Grian deadpanned “i understand your wings have been the source of a lot of trauma for you”

“Its nothing to do with that its the fact i feel embarrassed to need flying lessons…” Gem murmured

Grian nodded “I lost my ability to fly while I was still Icarus. Like the myth I ended up burning up due to my powers, i struggled for the longest time to fly but lessons helped me through that, i know they can be like that but you’re with friends”

Gem opened her mouth to say something when the sounds of an argument filled the air. The pair exchanged a glance as Gem grabbed her knife off the nearby table, Grian grabbed his staff, twisting it comfortably into his hands as the pair made their way into the hall. Gem could hear people in the main hall as she got closer, rounding the corner she was greeted by a scene that she could only describe as a mess.

Standing near the door was Cleo, a scientist in the Lily program, leaning on her for support was a younger girl with split brown and blue hair. Across from them stood Pearl, her wings bristling angrily and Martyn who seemed to be trying to find some sort of middle ground.

“Whats happening?” Gem asked, sliding the knife into her pocket. More people had slowly begun to gather at the commotion

Upon closer inspection Gem realized Cleo had a large cut running across her head causing blood to drip into her eye, unfocused eyes turned to look at Gem, “we need sanctuary,” Cleo croaked “sanctuary and healing.”

Pearl glared at them “you were going to use my life force to run your jail.”

“I wasn’t responsible for the Lily building. I had nothing to do with that- i just worked there.” Cleo pushed a strand of her hair out of her face “listen if you won’t accept me at least take her.” she gestured to the other person

The younger girl was unresponsive, all her focus seemed to be on the large bloody wound running across her abdomen. Blood already covered her hands “i’m granting them sanctuary. They’re injured and I said anyone injured can come here for help.” Gem looked around offering the chance for anyone to challenge her, Pearl crossed her arms sighing but backed off. “Lets get you two to the clinic”

Once the pair was settled in the makeshift clinic Gem got to work, “i hope you don’t mind but i just gotta ask some questions, how did these wounds happen?” she asked handing Cleo a clean cloth to clean her wounds

“We were trying to find a safe spot to shelter for the night but apparently we weren’t the only ones with that idea, we ended up getting attacked” Cleo explained dabbing at the blood

“So no skulk?”

“No thankfully” Cleo sighed “oh her names Magic by the way, i found her scavenging the Lily building after everyone left and we just ended up sticking together”

“Thanks” Gem murmured, summoning her healing as she began carefully stitching together the wound. It didn’t take nearly as long as she had feared which made her hopeful her energy was returning. “She just needs time to rest but she should heal well enough” Gem explained before gesturing to Cleo to let her see the wound. That one took only a few moments due to the shallowness and it left only a faint line. After that Gem quickly made sure Cleo had food and water and began cleaning up

“What caused all your scars?” Cleo asked “when we first met you seemed a lot less sure of yourself.”

“Oh i threw a bunch of basically fireballs at my feet after a run in with the skulks queen bee, apparently my self healing wasn’t strong enough to save me from the scars” Gem shrugged “what about you?”

Cleo laughed “well being undead i’ve had to fix myself up more times than i can count”

“I should go check up on another patient i’m watching over, send someone to track me down if you need me” Gem smiled making her way up to Owens temporary apartment. It was silent as she entered, but that was quickly ruined as a knife nearly lodged itself in her wing.

Owen stood in front of her his eyes flashing from panic to fear and then recognition “Gem- oh my gods i’m sorry i panicked-”

“Hey its alright no harm done” she forced her wings to lie flat as she smiled. “How are you feeling?” she asked

“Not great honestly… i feel like mentally i’m trying to find out who i am while three different versions of myself fight.” he sighed “so many memories and i don’t know whats real or not” he sat down on the couch picking numbly at the wrapping covering his arms,

“Do you remember your past?” she asked carefully, leaning against the counter

“I think so” Owen confirmed nodding “or pieces of it anyways, its the only way half of my memories even begin to make sense.”

There was the sound of someone scrambling as Owens bedroom door burst open, Scott came out looking frazzled and exhausted, his eyes landed on Owen after a moment “you’re alive!” he smiled running over to hug him “why didn’t you wake me up?”

“You were sleeping i wasn’t going to bother you” Owen answered muffled

“Every time i leave you alone something terrible happens to you” Scott sighed

“I think thats a part of my charm honestly, really builds character”

Gem smiled quietly, slipping out of the apartment, deciding to check up on them later instead. Making her way down the hall she bumped into Aimsey “oh hey” they smiled “there’s a group headed down to the hero-corp to try and scavenge some supplies if you want to come” Aimsey explained quickly

“Yeah i’ll come for a stretch” Gem smiled following star back to the lobby Fwhip, Pix and Sniff were waiting already, Pearl was talking to Pix and seemed to be giving him a list

“Take care, call for backup if anything feels even slightly wrong” Pearl sighed, waving them off.

Hopping into the truck Gem ended up in shotgun next to Pix, “nice to see you out of uniform for the first time in nearly half a year” he smiled

“Oh yeah i guess it has been that long huh, the hotel incident right”

“Yeah i think so, man that was a long time ago” she pushed her hair out of her face

It was quiet on the road adding to the apocalypse feeling that everyone had quietly muttering about. The skulk made the roads rough causing Gem to feel sick.

“Here we are.” Sniff breathed as the car pulled into the parking lot the building was covered in skulk slowly winding up towards the top. “I didn’t think it could get worse after my incident” they sighed

“Wow its ugly” Aimsey commented “i see why there’s so few heroes who enjoy their job now”

“Thanks i’ll keep that advice in mind” Pixl shook his head though he had the hints of a smile on his face “lets get what we need and get out” he added pulling on a pair of goggles “that front door is trapped, there’s skulk sensors just waiting for us to enter to alert whatevers hiding in there” he explained pulling the goggles off again

“We can use my way in” Gem suggested, “theres an old maintenance tunnel i used to slip through, it leads down to the basement” Pix and Fwhip exchanged a glance “don’t do that, it worked for getting in and out and thats what mattered”

“That should work” Pix nodded gesturing to Gem to lead the way

The side entrance was a simple alley entrance that clearly hadn’t been used in a long time regularly, though to Gem it was as familiar as stepping into a loved room. It was a wonder she’d even found the door back then considering how hidden it was, “how have i never known about this?” Fwhip murmured hopping down

“Because the less people that knew about it the less likely it was we were attacked from it” Pix explained “thats why its buried behind so many boxes” he added pushing through a tall stack.

“How much history is buried down here” Aimsey muttered pulling out her phone flashlight and carefully reading through the boxes names

“Some of these boxes have to be as old as the city” Sniff added

“There is a couple actually. I'm pretty sure they’re from back when this was a tiny little city. They were a vigilante duo!” Gem explained pulling out the two old shoe boxes, in now long faded writing they were labeled “Scarlet” and “Azure”

Slipping open the first box Gem pulled out a photo of the pair, a brunette woman cloaked in red stood casually a smile shining in her eyes, a pair of raven black wings casting a slight shadow on the teal haired man next to her, his outfit looked like the traditional Chromia outfits with its bright colours before fading into a grey.

“Oh you’ve gotta be kidding me” Gem groaned as realization set it who she was looking at “its Scott and Pearl.”

“Oh my gods it is-” Fwhip laughed.

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Chapter 34: I'm almost me again, she's almost you

Gem tucked the photo in her bag as the group began to move on they were quick to split up once out of the basement, Pix and Sniff heading to go find Pearls old lab leaving the other three, “lets head up to the dorms, i’ve got a list of clothes and belongings people want me to grab” Fwhip suggested

“Yeah i need to grab my stuff from the dorm thats been there for months” Gem nodded, Aimsey shrugged, willing to follow, having no personal connection to the old building.

After a bit of maneuvering the trio found their way to the room, “well this feels just as oppressive as when i left” Gem muttered as Fwhip unlocked the door. The room was dark with the blinds drawn. There was an almost choking atmosphere to it all, “you kept all my junk?” she breathed picking up an old stuffed dog

“I meant to bring it to you but i couldn’t really get it out” Fwhip shrugged. Gem smiled, tucking the stuffed brown dog into her back next to the photo before continuing to dig through her box.

“Jeez these living spaces are sad” Aimsey muttered, poking their head in the room “what's that Gem?” he asked pointing the hospital room wristband she had just pulled out

“Oh, it's an old hospital wristband from when I ended up getting into a fight with a couple of reporters and burning myself pretty badly with coffee,” she explained, fiddling with it embarrassed.

“How did you manage that?” Aimsey asked sitting down on the bed

“They kept following me, managed to slip away from a press conference I guess. They were trying to get gossip” she sighed “It was a pair of older men they had followed me from room to room as i delivered coffee to heroes and other staff, for some reason security hadn’t been called on them that entire time, and eventually they ended up cornering me desperate for anything and well i ended up burning all three of us with coffee” she shrugged

“Creeps” Fwhip huffed “you should have came to our room”

“I wasn’t going to bring them into the elevator” Gem countered “they got off with a harsh scolding from False and Pix and only minimum healing from Niki so thats good enough for me”

“You seem to have a really bad history with burning yourself” Aimsey pointed out

“Yeah… whatever works works to protect myself though” she shrugged as her hand brushed against something in the box, “you have my jacket” she gasped pulling out an old faded pink bomber jacket, there was sewn on patches from mishaps over the years but it had been a constant comfort to Gem her entire life

“Well I wasn't going to get rid of it was I?” Fwhip smiled “alright are you good to stay here?”

“Yeah i’ll gather up the rest of my stuff” she gestured for them to go, leaving her alone. She grabbed a photo from the box of her, Katherine, False, Lizzie and Shelby as well as the final letter she had received from Soup before they disappeared and finally she plucked up a delicate crimson feather that had long ago belonged to Fwhip.

Harsh whispers began filling her mind the longer she looked at it, voices that didn’t belong to her internal dialogue screaming about barely comprehensible horrors. Before her eyes flashed images of death stretching from starvation to murder, one thing was the same about all of them though. The patches where it looked like the skin had been eaten away by something. At first the people were unrecognizable but slowly began to shift, slowly becoming the people she held closest to her heart.

“Hey Gem you alright?” Sniff poked her head in the door meaning Pix must be right behind them. Gem quickly shook off the ill omen loosening her grip on her jacket.

“Yeah, yeah i’m alright just some old memories” she shrugged, picking up the feather again and tucking it in her bag. Pulling her jacket on she tugged the bag back over her shoulder and followed them out into the halls.

***

One week. One week where Gem felt calm, even able to adapt to the strange whispers that seemed to keep harassing her. It became very clear what the cause was as the skulk in her arm had mingled with the slight golden glow from her own powers' corruption.

“You’re brooding again” Gem turned from where she sat her feet dangling over the edge of the roof to see Pearl approaching carefully a box under her arm.

“Brooding is a bit dramatic” Gem responded gesturing for her to sit, the voices yelled in protest they really disliked Pearl she had learned quite quickly “its more like reflecting on what got me here” she shrugged

“Thats basically brooding” Pearl pointed out “anyways, this is for you” she smiled handing over the box.

Gem carefully opened it and pulled out a short long sleeved golden dress, the built in armour just noticeable in the well designed dress. “I thought the other dress would be easier to save for more special events” Pearl explained

“Its beautiful Pearl” she smiled hugging her friend “and this design, the tiny suns are so cute”

“That was Impulses idea, you know how people like having symbols for their favourite heroes or villains that they can put on things” Pearl explained rubbing one between her fingers

“I’m flattered you think i’m someones favourite villain” Gem laughed

“You never know” Pearl shrugged

As a spike of pain shot through Gems arm she winced reaching to squeeze her arm. Pearl gave her a concerned glance “are you alright?” she asked carefully

For a moment Gem hesitated, she could tell Pearl she trusted her and knew there was probably a way to fix it but part of her didn’t want to worry anyone anymore. “I-” Gem froze, it was long enough for Pearl to catch on. She knew that as clear as day. “No i don’t think i am” she answered, pulling her jacket sleeve down to show the skulk slowly creeping up her arm.

Pearls face seemed to shift as emotions fought “how are you still in control that should be corrupting you-” she took Gems hand carefully

“Its trying, but apparently trying to take over an already so split up mind is proving a lot more difficult then Nox probably intended” Gem shrugged “i’ve tried cutting it out, i’ve tried essentially burning it out. Ice did nothing- i don’t know what to do”

Pearls face shifted to a look of forced calmness “do you have any side effects?” she asked her starry eyes showing her inner conflict

“Voices in my head, they keep yelling at me and the occasional shooting pain like that but it’s nothing like what Owen or Shelby said” she explained placing her other hand on top of Pearls “listen if it does get bad i’ll tell you i swear, do whatever you need to do.”

“I will. I promise, if it gets to that point i’ll do what needs to be done.” Pearl nodded “i swear it on the moon”

“Thank you” Gem sighed. It felt like a weight being lifted off her shoulders.

“Perfect just the pair i was looking for” Grian smiled quickly walking over before lowering his voice to a whisper “there’s tension building. Sides are starting up trying to keep so many people with such a variety of opinions is like trying to keep a dam from flooding.” he hissed “a fights moments from breaking out.”

“What do you suggest?” Pearl asked turning to face him,

“I don’t know honestly there’s so much tension i feel any movement will lead to destruction.”

“There has to be a deeper cause than just opinions.” Gem muttered, both of them turned looking at her “people can hide their personal opinions, they know how important it is we all stick together. My best guess is that people are going stir crazy, the citys safe enough we need to get out there and track down the skulk.” Gem explained tracing it out on the stone “just get them out let them do something that makes them feel useful”

“Thats a really good idea Gem” Pearl nodded “yeah we could do that, patrol for hives, get supplies from the build up, visit the hotel and visit people trapped, gods we’re dumb why didn’t we think of this sooner” she hopped up “i’m gonna go organize something” she muttered only half listening for a response as she left.

“So… do you want some flying lessons” Grian asked

Gem hesitated as a thought crossed her mind, smiling as she turned back to Grian “how is it that mother birds teach their chicks to fly again?”

“Throwing them out of the nest-” realization settled in Grians eyes “if you do that you’re just going to end up hurting yourself,” he pointed out crossing his arms

“I did it the night you went to jail” Gem shrugged flexing her wings

“Gemini Tay do not do that” Grian sighed

For a moment she paused considering the risks of her wings not holding her but she had been working on building up some muscles and there was no better way then risk to learn to do something. Stretching her wings she leaned back allowing gravity to take over.

The whistle of wind filled Gems ears as she watched Grian begin to shrink, she flipped over watching the ground come steadily closer, she spread her wings as the rush of air caught them she laughed triumphantly gliding through the streets, carefully she pushed herself higher and returned to the roof with the help of Grian, “how was that” she smiled pushing her now windblown hair from her face

“Never again.” Grian responded “though i’ve gotta admit your wings held up really well”

“I’ve been working on them,” she smiled happily.

***

“Duck” Shelbys warning was just quick enough for Gem to drop before a staff flung by right where she had been, duo fights were proving to be much easier then Gem had thought, Katherine and False were a scary duo while teamed up,

“On your left” Gem swung, managing to tap Kathrine before she could hit Shubble, if powers were at play Gem knew this would have been a much less fair fight.

In her moment of distraction False quickly swept her feet out from under her, “you’re too focused in on one thing” she pointed out lifting the staff up against her chest,

Gem sighed, readjusting her grip on her staff she quickly knocked Falses staff away and scrambled to her feet, the metal clashed as Gem advanced, she had become a feared opponent in the ring but False was one of the few she was unable to best. Katherine and Shelby had fallen silent.

The staff whistled past her ear and she reacted quickly attempting to grab it, a pain shot through her wrist causing her to wince before she pulled the staff back forcing False to let go. Even disarmed she kept her cautions up. False was dangerous in combat period. False lunged forward somehow managing to grab Gem in a headlock.

After scrambling for a moment Gem sighed admitting defeat and False let her go. “Good fight” the blonde smiled tucking her goggles back up on her head, “you’re getting better i’ll give you that”

“Thanks, one day i’ll manage to beat you” she smiled back

“Keep training” False laughed

“I’ve gotta admit watching you two fight is like watching a dance” Katherine muttered “you’ve both got a very distinct style of movement that just makes it seem like a dance”

“Alright i’ve gotta run you guys take care!” Gem called heading off to flying lessons. The busier her schedule was the less time she had to think about her growing skulk friend and at this point she was willing to do anything to keep her attention off it.

Notes:

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Chapter 35: You built the glacier house in the fading summer, you cursed the earth you settled under

Crack. Crack. Crack. Gem woke up disoriented to the sound of wood splitting, a deep feeling of discomfort flooded her and she quickly sprung up, the slight ache of her muscles and the feeling of skulk just under her skin made her very aware this was real. She grabbed the staff that leaned against the wall and prepared for the worst. The door to her apartment was crumbling to whatever was throwing itself against it. The voices whispered excitedly which caused Gems suspicions to fly through the roof.

Carefully she placed her hands on the door knob, steadying her nerves she flung the door open moving behind it as she went, the person fell onto the floor, as she slammed the door closed again it wasn’t a human or even a wild animal that was now sprawled on the floor but a creature that could only be made from skulk. She lifted her staff bringing it down in what should have been a strong enough blow to knock someone out but it only passed harmlessly through with tendrils crawling up the staff. Throwing the staff away she wrapped the creature in light vines and watched as it melted away.

“What the-” she muttered, cleaning the skulk off her staff. Gem could hear clattering in the hallway indicating this wasn’t the only creature, shaking out her wings she took a deep breath and flung her door open.

“Heads up!” Joel yelled as a glass bottle shattered behind her, Gem spun around to watch as a grey gas filled the hall, “Gem get a mask on” he added and she ducked back into her room to grab her mask sitting on the table.

“So how’d this happen?” she asked working her way towards him,

“No clue but they won’t stop coming” Joel responded “on your left” he added, Gem swung around the staff whistling through the air,

“Easy Gem” Scar easily caught the staff “impressive swing though” he added

“Do you know whats happening?” Joel asked

“No no ones sure but we’re trying to get everyone up to the roof,” Scar explained, firing an arrow into an advancing skulk creation.

“I need to help Lizzie and grab Hermes, can you two cover for me?” Joel asked adjusting the vials on his belt, and he quickly returned after a minute with Lizzie and Hermes in tow. Though the skulk hadn’t infected Lizzie during an incident it has weakened her significantly leaving her spooked. There was an almost wild look in her cat-like eyes.

“Lets go” Scar ushered them on though it was proving pointless as more and more skulk made it harder to move more than a few feet without a fight,

Gem sighed frustrated “can we get to a window? I could fly us up if we can get to a window” she suggested

A look of relief flashed in Scars eyes at the suggestion and with ease he was able to break open the nearest door, as the door slammed shut behind them Gem quickly worked at prying open the window and screen, once it was torn out she stuck her head out waving down Grian who was circling the building “oh thank the gods you’re here” she sighed

“Are all of you here?” Grian asked gripping the small ledge carefully

“Uh its me Scar Joel Lizzie and Hermes” she nodded

Grian sighed relieved “lets get you guys out of here,” Joel and Scar who had remained near the door to keep it closed quickly came over, “Scar i’ll take you” Grian offered a hand to the elf who carefully worked his way out the window.

“I can take Lizzie, Joel” Gem suggested, his shapeshifted wings looked weak “i’ll be able to hold her”

“I’ll be fine with her Joel don’t worry” Lizzie patted his arm gently allowing Gem to bear her weight, with ease she was able to get to the roof, Lizzie smiled a genuine smile as the fog of whatever haunted her seemed to fade. For a few moments she seemed to focus on the surrounding people taking in the scene, “its cold” she whispered

“Here have this” Gem quickly pulled off her bomber jacket placing it on Lizzie who took it gratefully as Niki and Fwhip quickly appeared.

“Pearl will want you three” Niki said pointing to Grian Scar and Gem who exchanged a knowing glance, walking towards the few tables that had been commandeered for trying to figure out what had happened Gem took the time to survey the clumps of people. Shelby and Owen who seemed to be the only people who could be near those infected with the skulk, stood near them trying to keep them from making any bold escapes.

A group stood guarding the door from the few skulk creatures that managed to navigate the building, finally Eloise and Magic were walking through the clumps offering up potions to those around.

“My bets that one of the protection runes either died or was destroyed” Cleos voice drifted through the air, she had circled the points where the runes were. “Since they found one weak point they’ve managed to get in and break more.”

“How would it die? I’ve been working on those runes for over a thousand years.” Pearl pointed out

“A wrong step or enough stress could kill it.” Scar shrugged,

Pearl sighed, she reached into her pocket and pulled out the design for the glyphs, “it shouldn’t be able to fail.” she traced the shape with her finger,

Aimsey who had quietly made their way over glanced at the glyph “i’ve seen that symbol in the astral realm before, its a blocker” she studied the rune carefully, “i think there’s the longevity glyph meant to be intertwined with it”

“I think stars right” Cleo nodded “i haven’t done glyph work in a long time but i believe it looks like this” they quickly drew a smaller version of the glyph

Pearl was silent as realization slowly dawned on her, she shook herself slightly “we need to find the weak point. Once we find that we can seal it again.” with something on her mind she quickly changed “okay Grian False you two are the fastest fliers here i need to go go circle and find the weak point.” the pain nodded quickly taking off

“Let me help” Gem offered desperate to do anything.

“The skulks climbing up the side of the building!” Beks' warning call cut through the air as the first tendrils of skulk made their way over the lip.

“Go help with that.” Pearl ordered, slightly disappointed Gem grabbed a staff from nearby and took off, without much of a strain she began burning the skulk in blinding balls of light

“Watch your step Gem” Scott warned as ice covered the ground. Causing the skulk to shrink back even more, Gem turned watching as more attacks filled the roof, she felt herself falling before it really happened.

“Easy Gem it’ll hurt if you wipe out on the ice” Jimmy smiled grabbing the back of her shirt

“Thanks Jim” she smiled, allowing him to help her up, she became aware of a shape moving closer, “duck.” she ordered quickly, without even a moment of questioning Jimmy ducked down allowing her to easily bat the skulk creature down.

“Thats quite the swing you have” Scott commented rushing over to finish off the downed skulk creation.

“Thanks i used to be Dawns star batter” she smiled helping Jimmy up “turns out staff work and batting go hand in hand”

A loud screech filled the air making Gem flinch, as shriekers and sensors appeared in a trail-like pattern. “Hello little mortals” a voice that now constantly haunted Gem sighed as Nox materialized from the skulk “i must say you’ve all held up remarkably well but i’m growing impatient.

“Gods she’s just as menacing as before…” Scott hissed, Nox turned her eyes landing on the trio,

“Scott Smajor you’re still alive…” she groaned

Scott took a bow “alive and thriving, unlike you” he added the last bit quietly and Gem bit her lip to keep herself from laughing.

“Ignoring childish actions i’ve come to give you all one final warning. One final chance to join me willingly.” murmurs filled the air “in two weeks time i will take the city by force on that day, you’ll all either die or join the skulk.”

Gem exchanged a glance with Pearl from across the roof, “here” Jimmy pressed a fireball into her hand “don’t get yourself killed okay” he whispered.

Scott was silent, his hands moving quickly in a series of symbols known only between him and Pearl, everything had fallen still as Nox looked around a hungry look in her eyes, when their eyes finally met it took every ounce of self control Gem had to not look away from the dead voids. “Have you told them yet?” Nox asked, slithering closer.

Scott stood steadily at her side, Jimmy a step behind “tell them what?” Gem managed refusing to break eye contact, “oh you mean the infection you’ve been trying to cause me?” She laughed, “its not working, you failed.” she spat

Nox had enough sense to stay well out of Gems reach after last time though fury burned in her eyes, “hey Nox!” Shelby called “get out of here.” plants festered around her feet slowly wrapping around her ankles.

“Shelby Shubble, do you really think you scare me?” Nox laughed, “none of you little mortals scare me you’re specks of dust that will be replaced before long.”

While Nox was distracted by Shubble, Gem silently crept closer, the firebomb in her hand. But something went wrong. Nox spun around forcing the fireball from Gems hand, meeting her eyes with a look of triumph. Gem stood frozen a cold fear spreading through her body, though the roof was full of people no one moved. “You’re too noble for your own good.” Nox hissed her cold hands reaching to grab her.

“Nox.” Fwhips voice made both of them turn, he and Pearl stood bristling, a small stone clattered next to Gem and she looked up, overhead a giant boulder hovered, “get out of here.”

The shadows seemed to move around them “fine.” without another word the demon disappeared though the skulk still covered the roof. A collective breath escaped the roof, Gem backed away shaking slightly until she bumped into Scott who took her hand in his own and gave a gentle squeeze.

There was a loud screeching noise that filled the air as the skulk began to recoil away. “In two weeks time Nox is going to die.” Gem hissed watching as a glowing gold barrier covered the apartment again.

“In two weeks time I have a feeling she won’t be the only one.” Scott murmured under his breath.

Notes:

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Chapter 36: So choose your last words, this is the last time 'cause you and I, we were born to die

Training seemed to reach its peak after that, everyday was constant training and patrolling, Gems muscles constantly ached. It didn’t help that almost every night she was struggling to sleep instead only finding comfort in wandering the halls until she was sure it was safe. Curled up in a random unused apartment Gem sighed resting her head on her knees.

The door creaked open and a silent figure slipped in, “hey” Lizzie murmured “can’t sleep?”

“Yeah you?” Gem glanced over at her,

Lizzie sat down “yeah some old wounds have been acting up recently” she shrugged her tail flicking from side to side, “hows the skulk?”

“Its honestly been pretty calm, the voices haven’t screamed for blood in a while now since Nox found out it hasn’t worked it kinda feels like a bug bite to be honest” she shrugged tugging up her sleeve, in the faint light of her powers the skulk was noticeable

“Well thats better than nothing” Lizzie sighed “i hope that you’re able to find a way to cure it” she added.

The door opened again “oh you guys beat me here-” Shelby sighed “sorry i can go uh-”

“Lots of room” Gem shrugged “if you needed a quiet spot feel free to lay down”

Shubble sighed “thanks” she muttered sitting down “it’s been really difficult to sleep with someone constantly checking in on me hourly to make sure the skulk hasn’t come back” she stretched out next to Gem.

“Yeah I can hear them moving from my place so I can only imagine” Lizzie nodded sympathetically.

It wasn’t long before Lizzie was asleep, her rhythmic breathing the only noise in the room, “Gem…” Shelby murmured “you’ve been infected, do you hear the voices whispering too?” she asked

“Yeah, everyday i do.” Gem confirmed

“Thank the gods” Shelby sighed “Owen doesn’t and i’ve been scared to mention it. I’ve barely gotten out of quarantine, they'll send me back and i want to help.”

“I won’t tell anyone don’t worry” Gem promised “we’ll figure it out”

“Yeah and get everyone else out of the skulk trance” she added,

“Of course,” Gem agreed.

They fell silent again after that, the three sitting in the dark empty apartment away from the business they had grown to know. The next thing Gem knew it was morning, just after dawn from the light streaming through the window. It was still quiet though a few people were shuffling through the halls. She silently stood up, her back and legs stiff from how she’d been sitting.

Shelby had also begun to stir slowly coming into consciousness, the door opened and closed quietly as Lizzie appeared already awake carrying a tray of pancakes. “Sausage made pancakes so i decided to bring some for you two” she explained setting it down on the counter

“Oh! I haven't had Sausages pancakes in so long!” Shelby sprung up happily taking her serving, Gem grabbed hers as well eating the fruity pancakes quietly, that was the first night she’d slept well in days. When her phone began to buzz Gem grabbed it quickly

“Hey P, whats up?” she asked

“Gem oh thank the gods where are you?” Pearl sounded frantic and Gem could hear the sounds of people talking urgently

“I’m in one of the spare apartments with Lizzie and Shubble, why?”

“The group patroling Chromia never came back, Mumbo just phoned though. He was calling for backup due to the skulk.” Pearl explained

“Nox broke another barrier?” Gem felt sick, Shelby and Lizzie had fallen silent horror painted in their expressions.

“Thats what we’re guessing. We leave in two minutes get ready.” Pearl hung up after that.

Gem turned to look at them “skulk attack at Chromia.” she muttered numbly before fumbling the door open “two minutes till they leave” she added before taking off.

She quickly dressed in her Sun Weaver outfit, tossing her hair into a ponytail to keep it out of her face, working completely on instincts Gem grabbed her staff and knife and ran. “Sun Weaver over here” Artemis waved her over, the group was small considering how many people were there; Artemis, Watcher, Apollo, Boreas, Maze and Eir.

“I’m coming too.” Lizzie called, if Sun looked frantic she looked disheveled her mask not even on yet,

There was a moment of reluctance before Grian took her hand, “let her come we need all the hands we can spare” he pointed out

“Alright lets get going,'' Artemis nodded. There was barely enough time for everyone to load into a car before they were rushing through the city. As expected skulk had begun to encroach on the colourful building.

“Sun, Eir, you two are with me we’re gonna go make sure people are okay” Watcher called gesturing for them to follow him, they quickly took to the air, “spread out get the people to the roof” he called

Sun landed on the balcony of a room, easily sliding the door open “hello is anyone here?” she called, a plate slammed into the wall next to her causing her to flinch

“Get away from us!” a girl yelled, picking up a mug and preparing to throw it.

“Hey its alright i’m here to help-” she raised her hands trying to ignore the small trickle of blood from a shard of the plate that had hit her arm. “I have instructions to get you to the roof because of the skulk”

“You’re a villain, why should I trust you?” the girl pointed out the mug still in hand,

“Because i’m trying to help you,” Sun Weaver responded. “i just want to take you up to the roof so the skulk won’t get you” she explained.

There was the sound of a baby crying and the girl abandoned her protective stance to peer into a small cradle, she carefully picked up a bundle of blankets the girl sighed “Ellie you can come out” she called, a girl maybe eight appeared, cautious and carefully clinging to the older girls shirt. “What do you need us to do?”

“You don’t need to do anything but hold the baby,” Sun responded leading them onto the balcony “whats your name?” she asked

“Sylvia, and these are my sisters Ellie and Theodosia”

“Well Sylvia i promise you’ll all be perfectly safe” Sun smiled “alright Ellie can i get you to crawl on my back and hold on?” she asked the eight year old spreading her wings out so the child could clamber on. “Sylvia just hold onto Theodosia alright” she carefully picked the teenager up and took flight.

Sun Weavers’ wings screamed in protest as she let the family go, the were herded to where the others were waiting where an adult embraced them quickly. She flicked on her ear piece “my sections done” she announced

“Copy that Sun, come down to the ground please” Boreas called, with ease she landed, “perfect timing,” he smiled “we’re going to find the patrol.” he explained placing a firebomb in her hand

“Okay then-” Sun shook her head slightly at how quickly he was prepared to do this,

“Maze lets go!” Boreas called, working through the skulk into the hotel, the floor of the lobby was covered in the squishy material that clung to everything it touched.

Sun grunted pulling her food from the skulk, “its like mud” she muttered as the skulk refilled the hole from her step. “A gross living mud.”

Maze looked nervous cautiously putting his feet down, “it’d be so much easier to just burn this down”

“We’re not burning down my hotel” Scott sighed, there was the sound of clicking as a sensor went off somewhere down a hall, Gems staff was in hand in moments

“This is trapped for sure” Owen hissed, “she wants us to walk into whatever traps have been set up so we die.”

“We’ll be fine, she won’t kill you or Gem, she has other plans for you.” Scott muttered

“How can you be so sure? She seems like she wants me dead” Gem pointed out

Scott didn’t get the chance to reply as heavy footsteps shook the halls, the smell of decay quickly became overwhelming causing Gem to gag. Scott grabbed her arm pulling her over to the side of the room pushing Owen too just in time for a large monster to walk in. “Not a sound” he breathed

Gem could feel her heartbeat, the sound of it pounding in her ears, she felt shaky trying to push herself farther away from it. Scott tightened his grip on her wrist as he silently led her and Owen around the room. The beast sniffed as if trying to find them from their scent. Gems' heart dropped as a book fluttered underfoot. The creature turned, all though it didn’t have eyes it seemed to stare at her.

“Hey you ugly thing!” Owen darted away from them yelling, the monster turned following him. A low humming filled the air and in a blinding blast of teal light, a deafening noise filled the air.

Notes:

uhm uh oh

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Chapter 37: Hey, little songbird, give me a song

Notes:

thanks for 300 kudos and 8000 reads i dunno where you guys came from but wowwww

Before Gem could process anything the creature had let out a pained howl as the colour began to fade from it, silence consumed Gem as she watched the creature disappear, Scott standing in its place. He was shaking like a leaf staring at his hands.

Gem turned her attention to Owen who looked dead on the stone floor. Rushing over she quickly began checking for signs of life. A faint pulse was just noticeable, relief flooded her and as she tried to laugh no sound came out, she lifted her hand to her ear rubbing her fingers together there was no sound. Panic began to spread through her, Scott came to her side offering her a hand, he gestured to his own ear shaking his head slightly. She took his hand and squeezed it slightly.

Eventually the deafening silence was replaced by loud disorientating ringing, Scott looked just as uncomfortable as he looked around the room walking careful circles around. Owen stirred eventually, jolting awake like he’d been bitten by something, he opened his mouth to say something but Gem shook her head. Owens' eyes widened as he rubbed his hands together fear flickered in his eyes for a moment as he realized he had also been deafened. “...Gem” Scotts voice eventually broke the ringing “Gem can you hear me?”

“Oh my god Scott what was that thing?” she responded instantly turning to meet his eyes, he still sounded miles away

“A warden” he responded, helping Owen to his feet. “A beast that shouldn’t exist anymore,” he added.

“Why can’t I hear anything?” Owen asked he sounded unsure, Scott grabbed a small piece of paper off a desk, he quickly scribbled down ‘the blast was so loud give it time’ Owen still looked doubtful but nodded.

“We need to get going, hanging around here isn’t a good idea and for all we know the skulk could overwhelm them.” Scott pointed out, he took Owens hand and began leading them farther into the hotel once again. Eventually the ringing stopped, during the much more comforting silence Gem was able to pick up the sound of humming.

“Do you hear that?” she asked turning to Scott,

“Thats not creepy at all” Scott shook himself slightly “this is one hundred percent a trap but trust me”

“And now i wish i still couldn’t hear” Owen sighed “its a good thing i trust you”

A few more turns down a hallway led them into an indoor garden “like birds into a sheet of glass” Nox said in her sing-songy voice. “Gemini, how is it always you?” she sighed appearing

“You were the one who summoned me first” she pointed out her glowing staff in hand.

“Thats true i suppose…” Nox sighed “now i’m sure you’re here for them” she made a small gesture and the patrol that had disappeared the night before burst from the ground wrapped in cocoons.

“Let them out of their torment” Scott suggested “i can tell it’s draining you Nox,”

“You don’t know jack Smajor.” she responded “it’s a good thing no one out there will know what your last weak attempt at scamming was before the rubble crushed you” she added with a huff “and i doubt you’ll tell them yourself” .

“You’re gonna crush us?” Owen laughed in disbelief

“Its a shame isn’t it, i got you so close to remembering and now…” she sighed “oh child of the stars, it must be so sad to lose your friends after finally getting them back” she frowned “i can’t relate mortals only weaken us.”

Scott walked towards her until they were eye to eye “don’t refer to me and you as us. I’d rather die then end up like you.” he spat,

“Oh that can be arranged.” Nox smiled. Before Gem or Owen could warn him a knife was stabbed into his gut, “ekanite, one of the few elements that can kill immortals.” she explained wiping golden blood off the blade carefully.

Scott backed away holding a hand over the heavily bleeding wound. Gem looked between the pair, neither of them could survive a fight and with the patrol still in cocoons she had nothing to leverage, a million thoughts raced through her head as the first dust and rubble fell before Gem accepted it. “If you let all of them go, I'll be your healer.” she met Noxs eyes watching surprise flood them

“You’re a liar Tay, why would I trust you?” she was being guarded clearly learning from the past,

“Because I swear on the sun i’ll come with you if you let everyone in here out.” she held out a hand for Nox “just say you let them go and you get what you want.”

Nox studied her for a moment before responding “I swear on my life your little mortal friends will get out of the building safely.” she took Gems hand and shook it, the skulk cocoons fell away and the group awoke instantly

“Go.” Gem ordered turning to Owen and Scott, “get that wound checked as soon as you can okay Smajor?” She pressed her moon charm necklace and a chunk of sunstone into Owens hand before retreating to stand next to Nox.

They quickly retreated down the hall again “let's get you somewhere safe songbird” Nox said smiling, warping through the skulk felt like drowning, one second she was standing in the hotel and the next she stood on a roof watching the skulk wrap around the base of the building. “There your friends are out safely now” she pointed to some small figures just appearing from the entrance.

“You’re gonna kill all those people on the roof?” Gem asked, she felt sick

“Of course your friends doubt me. They see me as weak because i’ve been more of a pacifist until now. Think of it as a warning for them in five days.” the building began to crumble. The screams just audible from where they stood, Nox was smiling watching the colourful building fall in large chunks, Gem turned away to see the sun rising steadily overhead, a small bit of relief reached her seeing the sun strongly carry on. “Just five more days. Then you’ll be reunited.”

Notes:

shorter chapter but yk

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Chapter 38: Red, orange, yellow flicker beat sparking up my heart, we rip the start, the colors disappear

Notes:

five days have passed irl so have fun

It took four days for Gem to settle into a fragile routine. Nox allowed her freedom for the most part as long as she had a guard with her, and she was taken care of and treated like a goddess by the skulk vessels and scavengers that had joined Nox.

Gem stood staring at her reflection in a subway mirror, the skulk infection had spread and it now covered a section of her neck and the edges of her jaw, she didn’t look like like the girl in photos anymore, with her myriad of scars and her tired eyes that while they didn’t reflect the stars and galaxies or brewing storms or even death, they reflected the exhaustion of someone who had lost their will to fight. Her hair, usually wild, was tied in a tight braid still and her wings, which were unkempt, were now bound and groomed to perfection. It wasn’t her who stared back in the dirty mirror.

There was a knock on the door and Gem opened it after smoothing out her dress. A skulk vessel stood outside “my goddess requests your presence” it explained

“Okay” she nodded, starting her trek back to the throne room. Her mind raced with fear Nox wanted blood. Even if Gem tried to convince her of peace it wouldn’t work, she was driven purely by ambition and she wouldn’t stop until the blood of Gem's friends and family soaked the asphalt.

As Gem approached the throne room the sound of Nox talking became clear, she paused silent in the shadows “it's simple they have a weak point. My plan is to get in there and take over as many as I can before they know what's happening. At that point they'll be too scattered to put up much of a fight and it’ll be easy pickings.”

“What if they’re prepared?”

“They won’t be, they’ll be expecting an attack from where i’ve placed decoy weak points” Nox responded “its simple, and if you see any of those false immortals i want them brought to me. Their blood needs to be spilt by my hands before our world begins along with one of the dragons descendants”

“Who are the dragon's descendants?” another scavenger asked

“Oh I can't tell you that. You’ll have to wait and see”

Gem finally emerged “Nox you wanted to see me?” she dipped her head respectfully trying to catch a glance of the weak point she had mentioned

“Perfect there you are” Nox smiled, placing a hand on Gems shoulder and guiding her to the table. “This right here” she pointed at a building half a block away from the apartment “is where you’ll be staying tomorrow healing the wounded for me”

Gem studied the point, “can i leave to get people off the street?” she asked

“Sure whatever” Nox shrugged.

Gem sighed in relief if she could get on the street she could protect her friends, somehow she still had to warn them. “Thank you Nox” she dipped her head “if i may request something… i’m in need of more medical supplies. May I go to the Lily building?” her mind was racing hoping Nox would approve of it

“With a guard you may” Nox answered “you” she pointed at a man “you and your group are to escort her safely to and from the Lily building”

The man looked disappointed at being chosen for this endeavor but he didn’t say anything as he bowed “yes my goddess” he answered coming to stand at her side

“Gather your men and meet me in the warp room, we leave in five.” Gem ordered adjusting the knife she carried so it was easier to grab if needed. Within five minutes a group of six gathered around Gem on a warp pad, she studied them carefully, judging who would be the easiest to take down in a fight.

Warping still left her sick feeling as she landed on the other side. Gasping for breath to steady herself she realized if she wanted to run now would be the perfect time. Gem darted away quickly jumping past a lady kneeled on the ground, they all seemed too dazed to come after her and she raced down the stark white halls. Gem lept into a side corridor carefully hiding from the main hall as footsteps raced by.

“Communications… come on come on…” she hissed forcing a door open “oh thank you sun” she sighed in relief as a communicator sat discarded on a table. From memory she dialed in a phone number Pearl had given her once upon a time. “Pick up the phone please” Gem pleaded

“Who is this?” the voice was crackly and faded slightly

“Oh my gods Oli i need help-” she cried

“Gem you’re alive, where are you?” she heard his call to someone in the background to get a Boatem member

“I’m in the Lily building- i need help i lost my escort but i don’t know how long i can stay hidden” her voice cracked with emotions

“Okay i’m gonna get someone there as soon as i can i need you to just hide for me okay?” Oli was quiet. The sound of footsteps and something crashing made Gem nearly cry “hide Gem i’ll stay on the line with you okay?” Oli murmured.

Gem didn’t answer, shoving herself into a small pile of boxes her black wings wrapped around her. “I don’t care how long it takes! We find the brat or Nox is going to kill us all!” a man yelled his voice echoing through the halls. The door scraped against the ground opening

Silent tears fell down Gems face as she typed out a message. ‘I’m not going to make it out of here alive. There’s a weak point behind the apartment Nox is going to use to attack you all. Thank you for giving me a chance and I’m sorry I never got to say goodbye properly.’ as the message sent she heard Olis breath hitch.

“There you are, you brat.” rough hands gripped her arm pulling her out of her hiding spot, thinking quickly Gem threw the communicator to the ground and watched the screen shatter beyond repair. “You’re dead.”

“Gem are you there-” the voice was far away and crackled but Gem knew it was Pearl

Gem scrambled for her knife but he grabbed her wrist, it felt like the bone snapped the second he touched it. Then the world went black again.

***

The smell of decay was back when Gem woke up. Nox was staring at her disappointment filled her eyes. “You tried to escape.” she stated accusingly

Gem stood up shaking slightly and with a killer headache “I did. And I'd do it again.” She responded boldly, cold anger burned in Noxs eyes, anger built up over centuries. “Kill me Nox. Do it. You’ll have one less rebel to deal with when I'm dead.” she forced her knife into Noxs hands and watched the anger flicker out instantly

“Killing you would be too easy” Nox responded blankly, pushing the knife back, “you’re keeping up your end of the deal.” Two golden cuffs were tightly put around Gems wrists, power neutralizers. They wouldn’t be strong enough to actually neutralize her powers but they would be enough to keep her powers from being a pain for Nox.

There was the sound of footsteps racing down the hall, “my goddess, three strangers are in the throne room they want to pledge their allegiance,” a scavenger explained, bowing to her.

“Come along Gem.” Nox ordered dismissing the scavenger. “I have a feeling you’ll enjoy this” she smiled and Gem followed silently, frustration burning away at her.

As the pair entered the room a heavy feeling of being watched hit Gem. Nox froze as her eyes landed on the trio that stood before the throne. “Welcome what can i do for you” Nox smiled coming to sit on her throne, Gem came to stand at her side and her stomach dropped, before the throne stood Grian while Martyn held a struggling Scott still.

“You must be Nox, me and my friend here have heard much about you” Grian smiled though his voice was wrong, “we much like you have seen humans for what they are and were wondering if you’re willing to be allies”

Gem glanced at Nox, catching the greedy flash in her eyes. “Of course i’d be willing to have two gods on my side, and him” she gestured to Scott “why bring him.”

“Think of him as a gift, to go with your songbird there” Martyn answered quickly pushing Scott forward,

Fear gnawed at Gem, she couldn’t tell if this was an act or not anymore, “may i get your names?” Nox asked standing up

“Ah i’m sure you know how much power names hold, you may call me The Watcher” Grian dipped his head, his purplish wings catching in a weak beam of light

“Mars” Martyn answered guiding Scott to Gems side, “i hope this alliance ends well Nox” he added

Nox smiled “of course, Gem” she turned quickly to face her “escort these two to a spare room you can keep your friend there, i’ll come by to perform the binding later”

“Yes my goddess” Gem dipped her head, the words left a bitter taste on her tongue but it would keep Nox happy. “Right this way” once they were out of audible range she laughed “this is certainly a plan” she murmured leading them farther down the hall

“It was Mumbos idea” Grian responded, for the first time Gem noticed the many almost illusions of eyes that marked his skin and the second set of wings that now sprouted from his back.

“Its a good idea nearly fooled me” Gem sighed

“There’s the traitor, walking around free and unharmed” the scavenger who had broken Gems wrist sneered at her “oh and you’re escorting guests…of course she wouldn’t punish you.”

Grian tried to step in front of Gem but she pushed past him. “You should be more respectful Nox would be livid if she found out you were speaking badly of her esteemed guests.” she glared at him

“Esteemed? The only important thing about them is how much their wings would sell for.” he laughed pushing Gem away and reaching to touch one of Grians wings. Grian grabbed his wrist twisting it slightly

“Can I help you?” he asked unamused “because currently i’m deciding what to curse you with, so choose your next words carefully.”

The scavenger backed away grumbling about Gem being a traitor as he went. Gem smoothed out her skirt “come lets get you to your room” she smiled

More scavengers watched as they walked, making Gem feel uneasy, “this is where we’ll be staying” she explained, forcing the door closed. “What's the plan?”

“We’re getting you out of here” Scott answered simply

“Scott, I'm bound to her. I can't leave. The only reason I could earlier was because she let me go.” Gem sighed letting her hair down

“We could unbi-” Grian slapped his hand over Martyns mouth shaking his head

“We can’t unbind you Gem, since neither me or Martyn are who you made the vow on however… I can get you to see Sun.” Grian explained

“Okay. What do i need to do?” she sighed, shaking slightly

“Nothing, I just need you to relax.” he responded taking her hands,

“I’m gonna go snoop,” Martyn explained, pushing the door open again leaving again.

“What do i say?” Gem asked she felt sick the last time she’d seen a god she’d been almost dead

“Anything that will convince her,” Grian answered “I believe in you.”

Grians words seemed to warp and the world went black again.

***

Gem woke up covered in sand and burning from the sun. She was in a desert now on a cliff a tower cast a small bit of shade, a ring of cactus the only other noteworthy thing in sight but that was it. The Sun turned, giving her a tired smile from where she sat on a chest “I was wondering when you would make it through” she gestured for Gem to come sit.

“So you know why i’m here?” Gem asked sitting down

“I do… I have bad news for you though...” she let out a breath “i can’t remove a vow without removing my tie to you completely”

“Okay and why is that an issue?” Gem blurted out “sorry i- thats something i’m willing to sacrifice if it means i don’t have to fight my family and my friends.”

“I know,” Sun nodded “if i untethered you from me the skulk and corruption from your powers would kill you” she explained “if that weren’t the case i’d free you in an instant”

“So this was useless?” Gem asked, disappointment mixed with numbness a lump in her throat

“Im sorry” she sighed “i cannot remove the vow but i can lower the stakes”

“What do you mean?” Gem asked looking up

“You’ll still have to heal some of them, let's say… ten of Noxs army, then you’ll no longer be obligated.” Sun held out a hand that Gem shook

“Thank you” she smiled weakly

Sun smiled, then the world faltered. “Sun, it's time we need to go.” The Moon appeared “oh you have a mortal-”

Sun stood up “young Gem i will see you on the field. Take care my champion” she planted a kiss on the top of Gems head.

“What do you mean on the field?” Gem called

“This is as much our fight as it is yours” Sun explained,”we’re why Nox is the way she is.” she sighed “Now wake up and go save your friends.”

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Chapter 39: Songbird vs. rattle snake

Gem woke up slowly, her internal clock telling her it was sometime before dawn, “you’re awake” Scott smiled he looked tired “are you free now?”

“Yeah every things sorted out now…” Gem lied “how's your wound?” she asked quickly changing the subject

Scott sighed leaning back against the wall, “well turns out that metal uh the ekanite it’s poisonous if i had put up more of a fight it probably would have killed me” he explained “El and Niki did what they could to heal it but it’ll leave a scar”

“Hey welcome to the club of scars caused by doing something reckless” Gem smiled gesturing to her scars from the fireballs. They were quiet, the only sound was breathing and the rustle of wings “i just want to at least say goodbye to everyone” she murmured pulling her knees up to her chest

“You’re not going to have to say goodbye. You’ll see them again safe and sound” Scott promised

“Don’t make promises you can’t keep Smajor” Gem responded quoting what Fwhip had said to her when she had promised to get his wings back. “We can try and make sure but we can’t promise anything.”

“I know.” Scott sighed “i’ve lived through events like this twice before i just want a different result this time” he wrapped his arms around himself in a weak form of self comfort

The door opened quickly “they’re planted we gotta go” Martyn announced in a hushed voice

You’re brilliant” Scott smiled his moment of weakness gone “Pearls meeting us at the extract point” he added as he shook Grian awake, the elytrian looked around slowly trying to wake up before it hit him

“We’re out of here?” he asked standing up and stretching

“The original plan was never to break me out was it?” Gem asked, standing up

“No it wasn’t, but the less you know the better” Grian explained

“Explain once we’re out let’s go” Martyn ordered, as he opened the door. He froze the first step he took, Gem peered over his shoulder and was met by Noxs cold piercing eyes instantly

“Oh it’s worse than i expected” Nox sighed “thank you for doing your duty Dolion” she added to a scavenger that stood at her side. “Inform the others we strike now. The enemy has come to us.” she smiled before turning her attention back to the four of them. “What's the best punishment for this I wonder…” she hummed before a dangerous look spread across her face.

“Do you really think you scare me as a disgraced goddess?” Grian asked

“You should get Scott to tell you about the pain being stabbed by ekanite can cause before speaking” Nox smiled before making a gesture, the skulk wrapped around Grian, Martyn and Scott but left Gem untouched. “Lets go Tay you and your friends get a front row seat to the fight” she ordered swiftly walking off the trio wrapped in skulk followed unwillingly.

Scavengers and corpses alike crowded in the throne room, the smell of decay overwhelming “oh my gods…” Martyn breathed “this is a full army-”

“My children, victory is almost here once these ‘heroes'” she laughed at the word “are dead we’ll be the ones in charge and more will join us” cheers broke out throughout the cavern.

For the first time in years Gem prayed. Not just to the sun but to all the gods that they would protect her family, that her demise wouldn’t be pointless, then she grabbed the dagger from Noxs belt and stabbed the demoness in the back.

Nox screeched in pain grabbing at the dagger wedged in her shoulder blades as her army stared on. Gem turned to the trio “get out now. Warn the others about how many are here” she pleaded and relief filled her as Martyn teleported them away.

“You.” Nox spat her icy hands wrapping around Gems throat, panic set in instantly as Gem clawed at Noxs arms “I should kill you and hang your body as an example” she growled, her human form seemed to shake, losing its elegant touch.

Gem gasped uselessly for air before slamming her foot into Noxs leg, she wailed letting go of Gem just long enough for her to get out of reach, she gasped for any ragged breath she could get down “do something you useless mortals!” Nox cried and the scavengers began moving in cautiously.

Gem pulled out her staff still holding her throat gingerly with her one hand “try me.” she hissed, wincing at the pain of speaking.

The first one moved forward, the same man that had threatened her the night before. Gem didn’t even give him a chance, he didn’t have the upper hand here, and she slammed the side of her staff into his head. He crumpled to the ground instantly and Gem turned to the others, a cold anger flooding her.

Footsteps echoing in the corridors made everyone pause, Gem turned to see wolves of shadows burst into the room followed by a red cloakedwoman, others followed filling the edge of the room, an uncomfortable stillness filled the room.

“Kill them.” Nox snapped, Gem gasped at how quickly the army of the disowned goddess advanced. She leapt into the fray desperate to be at her allies' side. A hand grabbed her wrist and Gem spun around her staff catching an unprepared scavenger who let out a cry of pain backing away.

She acted completely on instincts her mind a single track to get to someone she knew blood tinted the air as Gem forced her way through bodies, someone called for her as a hand touched her shoulder, she spun still on high alert “easy Gem” Sausage removed his hand from her shoulder

“Oh my gods you’re okay” she laughed, wincing at her sore throat turning to a corpse coming towards them she shoved it back and watched it tumble taking out a few more as it went. “We need to get to the others”

“Everyones scattered.” Sausage informed her “too many of them” he threw a handful of seeds down and they exploded into life throwing corpses and scavengers alike into the air, one of the giant plants caught fire

Gem yanked on the power neutralizers uselessly, there was no way she could get rid of them. A low growling caught her attention, Gem turned as a wolf lept at her knocking her to the ground. Gem gasped for breath, shoving her arm in front of her face as the wolf snapped. The padding in her sleeve saved her from the cruel fangs as Gem struggled to regain her breath and get it off her.

There was a grunt as Sausage shoved the animal away, he stepped between them as Gem struggled to her feet still warding off any other enemies. The wolf growled at them its hackles up and drool falling to the ground, “ℸ ̣ ╎ꖎꖎ|| ʖᔑᓵꖌ 𝙹⎓⎓” the wolf turned its head as a woman cloaked in red appeared “go.” she ordered and the wolf ran off with a small whine. “You’re okay” the woman gasped, pulling down her hood.

“Pearl!” Gem gasped hugging her friend

“Hey there stranger” she laughed “oh one sec” she sighed turning to some scavengers slowly creeping up, Gem had only seen Pearl use her powers maybe five times before but with the flick of a wrist they fell to the floor.

“You’ve been holding out on me” Gem accused spinning to hook a corpses feet out from under it with a well timed blow, some of the skulk splattered on her face, Gem grimaced wiping the fungus off, the cold feeling of it clung to her.

“Nah i just haven’t had a reason to use my powers” Pearl responded “Sausage on your left” she called.

There was a wailing sound as a group of the corpses fell to the ground writhing in pain the rancid smell of rot made Gems eyes water as she gasped for air, “she's draining them of life” she managed between gagging, “we need to do something and something fast.”

A cry of pain made Gem freeze, she spun around until her eyes landed on them. Fwhip stood next to the throne with a knife against his throat by a barely human Nox. She moved without a second thought breaking away from Pearl and Sausage, shoving her way through a dense wall of bodies. “There you are sunlight” Nox purred, turning to Gem as Fwhip struggled “now whats more important? Your brother or your friends?” she gestured adding an emphasis to her words. The battle below was clearly unfair and it was overwhelming to look at.

“Go help them Gem.” Fwhip ordered

She froze, her thoughts battling against each other, screaming to be heard. “Thats what i thought.” Nox laughed, pressing her knife into his neck until it drew blood.

Then the rumbling started. It was like the battle wasn’t happening as everyone began to look around. It shook the cavern until dust fell then the light appeared.

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Chapter 40: And just like that, it's over, we tend to our wounded, we count our dead

Notes:

it has been 8 months & 5 days since i started writing this fic one more month and i can officially call this my baby

The world was split in half from the light, it was a tear in the world of men and from it came gods. In their realm the gods had seemed normal, but among mortals it became clear why gods were feared by many.

Nox dropped her knife backing away for the first time she looked scared. But the fear in her eyes changed quickly to a look of triumph “they’re here finally” she announced “my children the time is now! Forget the useless mortals kill the gods.” she snarled leaping at the nearest god, her blade of ekanite aimed at the heart. The god shrieked in pain and the world stirred again.

Gem grabbed Fwhips arm dragging him away from the gods “you’re alive” she beamed laughing

“I’m alive, you're alive!” he managed his voice ragged, “you need to stop running off gods”

“Yeah i’m sorry i’m sorry” she hugged him healing his wound, there was a groan from the stone as dust fell. A few pebbles clattered to the ground as Gem looked up, a solid crack had formed on the roof, “oh my gods… the tunnels going to collapse.”

“We need to get out then” Fwhip grabbed her hand, “come on we gotta find the others”

The twins slowly worked their way through throngs of fighting people, trying to stay together. A vine sprung from the ground grabbing Gems foot, she yelped as it threw her into the air, it was a snare and she had walked right into it. “I’m alright Fwhip keep moving!” she yelled hoping he could hear her, she squirmed trying to cut herself down with her knife.

“You weren’t who i was trying to catch” Gem turned her head to see Shelby perched on a thick vine, for the first time she realized it was a whole system of these snare traps. “Here, let's get you out of there” she smiled as the vines brought her to the thick vines and let her go.

Gem let out a huff looking around she noticed the bodies scattered around “this is certainly a system” she managed trying not to gag

“Why thank you” she smiled

“Listen, the tunnel systems are about to come down, we need to get everyone out.” Gem explained glancing down to see if she could spot people,

Shubbles eyes widened “right. I’ll try to find people and get them out.” she nodded “lets get you down from here” she added.

The second Gem hit the ground she took off, darting through the crowded room, she crashed into someone lifting her knife defensively “easy there Gem” Jimmy put his hands up “you’re running like a deer with a gun aimed at it whats wrong?”

“The roof is going to collapse. We need to get everyone out of this main cavern” Gem gasped,

Jimmy sighed “alright let’s find the others and go.”

The battle was reaching a lull point, Gem moved through sluggish hoards fighting against quickly rotting corpses, their flesh being destroyed by the skulk, before long they would become unable to carry on leaving only the scavengers. There was a groan as rubble and dust began to fall. There were screams as people realized what was happening and shoving to get to an exit. Through the crowd Gem saw Pearl and Impulse and ran. She reached them as the stones began to fall.

A shield of light and Impulse throwing as many stones off course as he could saved them and a handful of others. The battle was over. People began to reemerge from the tunnels that hadn’t collapsed helping friends and foes alike from the rubble,

There was a frustrated yell and Gem turned to see Nox struggling through the rubble and past the gods towards them, “you’ve ruined everything” she spat her knife drawn “you warned them. You disrupted the blood spilling everything would have been perfect.”

Gem met her gaze, “its done Nox.” she stated her wings bristling, Nox was trembling slightly, then the blade appeared. The ekanite blade pulled away from her neck as the god of death stepped back dripping black ichor. Nox gasped, reaching for her throat before collapsing to the ground.

Gem gagged at the sight of the crumpled body turning away she met Impulse's eyes, the feelings of shock she felt reflected in his eyes. It was dead silent until Pearl broke the silence “i need anyone uninjured to help search through the rubble, anyone injured bring them back here” she ordered coming to Gems side “i need you to stay with me okay,” she murmured squeezing her shoulder

Gem nodded numbly, taking a deep breath. “Do you need some help getting those off?” Scar asked gesturing to the power numbers around her wrists

“Yeah please” she managed holding out her wrist for him,

“Do you need to talk about it?” he asked as the cuff fell to the ground

“I think talking about it will only make me feel worse, and i don’t need you guys babying me i’ll be fine” she forced a smile going to help anyone far away from Boatem. “Thats quite the gash” she commented as she reached Katherines side,

“Some of those corpses were aggressive” she responded “don’t waste your energy on me it’ll heal fine i know how to care for wounds like this” she added pressing a cloth into it.

Gem rolled her eyes “that is gushing blood i’m not letting you poorly wrap it” she responded grabbing her wrist with one hand she healed the wound leaving a smaller cleaned wound so it would still scar eventually. “Also i’m pretty sure Shelby would kill me if i didn’t” she added leaving the half demon be.

Gem felt exhausted, barely able to keep her head up when Fwhip appeared, covered in dust and blood “hey” he smiled sitting down on a chunk of rubble “you should take a break you look like you’re about to collapse.”

Gem sighed sitting down next to him, she leaned her head against him and watched the sun rise above the half collapsed buildings that surrounded them, “its over now i guess…”

“Yeah it is.” Fwhip murmured “what comes next?”

“Well aren’t you headed to the Grimlands now?”

“Yeah… i guess i am” he sighed, “i should actually go talk to Pix i guess” slowly Fwhip went to stand up, his wobbled slightly moving slowly through the rubble before suddenly collapsing.

Panic sparked in Gem as she quickly stood up “Fwhip?” she called racing to his side, blood had begun to seep through the back of his shirt “oh my gods-” she gasped, placing a hand on his back, her powers flickered weakly but it barely slowed the blood, she had drained herself.

“I guess its worse then it felt huh” he managed weakly

“Save your energy.” Gem ordered “i need a healer!” she yelled, there was the sound of footsteps as people climbed over the small mound to see what had happened. Eloise dropped down first a small potion in hand,

“Drink this Fwhip” she pushed the bottle into his shaking hand and he managed to tip it into his mouth. The crowd parted as the Sun and Earth appeared, Gem wanted to yell at them and tell them to stay away but she couldn’t manage it.

“He’s infected.” Earth muttered “poison in his blood its futile.”

“Shut up.” Gem snapped “he’ll be fine and he can still hear you.” She used her wings to create a barrier for them. “You’re gonna be okay, I can heal you, I just need more energy.”

“I think its my time Gem,” Fwhip murmured, reaching out a bloody hand to touch hers.

“You can’t die you’re all i have left” she croaked her voice wobbling

“You have so many people looking out for you.” he managed, squeezing her hand. He let out a sigh closing his eyes “i’ll see you on the other side” he added his voice a whisper.

“Nonono stay with me please please-” she begged, squeezing his hand back. There was a gentle hand pushing her wing down and she finally gave up.

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Chapter 41: Run fast for your mother, run fast for your father, run for your children, for your sisters and brothers

She cradled her brother's bloody body as sobs wracked her, after everything he had died to a stab wound and she had been too weak to save him.

A gentle hand touched her shoulder, she looked back to see Sausage tears in his eyes “he’s gone” she croaked.

He kneeled down hugging her “i’m so sorry” he whispered

“Get away from us” she yelled watching Death appear nearby “this is your fault” she spat turning her anger towards the gods, “if you had treated Nox like a normal person she wouldn’t have done this!” she stood up carefully lowering Fwhips body to the ground.

Anger fueled her as she walked closer to the gods “you killed him.”

“He got himself killed.” the Earth responded, crossing his arms, “he could have gone to the Grimlands and been safe.”

“He wouldn’t have had to fight if you didn’t exile Nox!” she argued

“Well, blame your friend Pearl for that.” he scoffed, “she got them both exiled because her grief was more important. Maybe you mortals are too driven by your emotions to begin with.”

Gems wings bristled “enough!” a commanding voice cut through the air, both of them turned to see Lady Wisdom climbing over the hill, “speak.” she ordered pointing at Sun

The goddess seemed to shrink in her skin “I can save your brother” she said eventually, Gem fell silent, her new found distrust of the gods didn’t seem to reach her tethered goddess or Lady Wisdom.

“What do you mean?” Earth scoffed

“I’m fading, my image is changing too much for this body to keep up with, I might as well do something useful before I go.”

“If you give up your life force you’re gone for good.” the Moon pointed out,

“I know.” she nodded,

 

“This feels too good to be real” Gem spoke finally “what's the catch?”

Sun turned to her, pain painting her features “when i fade someone has to become the next sun god”

There was the ultimatum. The only way to get her brother back was to become what she feared. “You want me to become a god?” she asked weakly

“Unfortunately.” the goddess nodded.

Gem fell silent her mind racing “Gem, you don’t have to-” Pearl started

“No Pearl, this is my decision.” she responded walking closer to the Sun “i’ll do it” she sighed, she felt drained of emotions and thoughts “please please bring him back.” she begged. She watched Pearl and Grian exchange a pained look as the world went dark.

***

“There you are my darling” a sweet voice cut through the cocoon of sleep that surrounded Gem, slowly she opened her eyes being greeted by a face she thought she’d never see again.

“Mom?” she gasped “its really you this isn’t another messed up dream?”

“It’s me” the woman smiled “you just missed your brother”

“I’ve missed you” she managed hugging her mom, taking in the large meadow around them

“I’ve missed you too sweetie” she smiled “oh look at how you’ve grown” she gasped carefully holding Gems face “all these scars… if only i had been there for you how would it have been different?”

“We would be different people” Gem answered simply

A portal opened behind them “this is where your journey starts” mom smiled “i’m proud of you my baby, you’re gonna do great things”

Gem felt tears well in her eyes as she hugged her mom one final time before turning to the portal. She glanced back before stepping into the portal.

***

“The day’s finally here, can you believe it?” Gem watched silently as the Gem of Crystal Cliffs danced around, gesturing to a tall building.

“You’ve been working for years to get it done” Fwhip smiled “you’re gonna do great” he added

“What if I mess up again?” she muttered worriedly pulling at her hair

“You’re gonna do great, you went through all this work and you’re gonna finish it” Fwhip sighed taking her hand away from her braid

“We’re here sorry i had to grab some flowers” Pearl called waving, Scott and Sausage followed

“Congrats on everything Gem” Sausage smiled, handing her a bouquet of black withered flowers.

“Thanks you guys” Gem smiled, plucking a flower from the bouquet and pinning it to the end of her braid. “After everything its finally finished”

“Personally i’m excited to attend once classes start” Scott commented

For a moment the five great rulers seemed younger, calmer as they joked. It gave Gem a sense of peace, “alright alright i need to start soon go” the wizard shooed her friends away

“We’ll be cheering the loudest from the crowd!” Pearl called

As the memory paused, the great wizard turned towards her, she pulled another flower from the bundle holding it out to her. “Thank you” Gem whispered, taking the flower, a name popped into her head the second she touched it, a wither rose. Memories flooded her mind of places she’d never seen nor would she ever be able to see, of a life she had lived two thousand years ago.

***

This new place was warm, a small banquet hall. Thirteen people sat around the table laughing as friends, from the head of the table appeared Gem of Dawn. Her energy made Gem gasp, a comforting energy that seemed to fill the room.

“A toast to the empires!” she started

“To the empires!” the other twelve echoed

“It’s amazing how far we’ve come,” she laughed “and i can only hope we’re blessed with many more years” she lifted a glass and for a moment Gem caught a glimpse of a blue patch under her skin. “Cheers,” she smiled.

As glasses clinked together the memory once again froze, the princess smiled holding out a glass of spiced honey, a drink found at every ceremony in Dawn. “You were already infected at this point weren’t you?” Gem asked unsure if she would respond

The princess sighed nodding, it seemed she couldn’t speak outside of the actual memory. Gem took the glass from her hand “thank you” she dipped her head slightly before taking a sip of the sweet drink.

It reminded her of home and was laced with even more memories and faces she would never see.

Notes:

there's two chapters left both of which are wrapping everything up. chapter 41 will be up in the next couple days and 42 will be up june 8th nine months after i started writing g3es thank you guys for sticking with me.

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Chapter 42: Don't go crying to your mama 'cause you're on your own in the real world

Gems head was pounding as she slowly woke up, she was back in the rubble of the city. “You’re alive!” Pearl gasped tackling her into a hug “i was so worried you were going to burn away” she explained weakly

“Is she awake?” Grian asked “me and Martyn finally got everyone out of this area so perfect timing” the other nodded.

“You four we need to talk” the Earth god sighed

“Alright first lesson in godhood you will get these stupid talks a lot learn to tune them out fast” Martyn hissed under his breath. Pearl smiled slightly shaking her head,

“Oh where do we even start?” Mercy sighed

“Simple.” Pearl cut in “I’m taking back my roles.” She answered, “I’m going to become your harvest goddess again.”

There were mutters of disapproval from the gathered gods but no one spoke up “well let her do it then” Lady Wisdom spoke up “let these three teach young Gemini the ways the gods function, you all know that even if Gem was under training from one of you she’d still listen to her friends more then us” she pointed out, a knowing smile crossed her face

“Yeah let them train her” Moon shrugged the Stars nodding

“They’re going to run off again and never say anything.” Earth pointed out

“We’ll attend a monthly meeting or something if that makes you happy,” Grian sighed

“Well its settled then!” Lady Wisdom clapped her hands together “you should go find your brother” she added quietly

“Is he…” Gem started

“Oh he’s alive, i made sure his spirit got back, he’s just healing” Death explained

Gem gave them both a quick thank you before running off. It didn’t take long to find Fwhip laying completely still and wrapped in bandages, she sat down nearby with a sigh

“Theres she is, the most impulsive person i know!” Scott placed a gentle hand on her shoulder making her jump slightly

“Mr. Smajor, where's your buddy?” she asked

“Oh he’s off keeping Beky company, turns out the warden blast deafened him in one ear for good and Beks also deaf in one ear so they’re trying to figure out a system to be each other's ear” he explained

“Right…” Gem nodded. She glanced at her wrist, while the rest of the skulk had disappeared when Nox was killed the infection that had gotten under her skin remained.

“Martyn told me he overheard the gods say they wouldn’t cleanse the skulk from your arm, something about at this point its so connected to you they worry…” Scott explained not even glancing over at her “they’re doing the same with Owen.”

“I know i shouldn’t want to keep Noxs memory alive but that makes me feel just a little better” Gem murmured

There was a pained groan as Fwhip started to move. Gem quickly stood up, quietly dropping to his side, Fwhip lifted his head his eyes coming to focus on her in surprise “how am i alive?” he croaked

“Well about that…” Gem took a deep breath quickly explaining what had happened.

“So you’ve cheated fate” he sighed slowly sitting up. He gasped in pain, his eyes instantly watering

“Are you okay?” Gem asked her wings bristling slightly in fear

“It feels like something is trying to rip itself out of my back,” he cried, falling forward again. Gem gently placed a hand on his back, surprised to feel bumps under his skin.

“Scott.” she called and he quickly came over “put your hand there do you feel that?” she asked

He gently touched Fwhips back “are those wings?” Scott gasped

“They couldn’t be wings,” Fwhip pointed out, “I lost my wings, remember.” People had begun to crowd at the noise

“Fwhip i want you to try untuck your wings” Gem ordered. Her brother nodded weakly, Fwhip hadn’t had wings since they were thirteen him untucking his wings hadn’t been an option. From his scarred back appeared a pair of crimson red wings.

“Oh my gods-” He gasped

“Oh my gods.” Gem laughed “you have wings again” she met her brothers shocked face

“I have wings” he echoed in shock “how do i have wings?”

“I don’t know but nothing made sense around here anymore” Gem pointed out.

Fwhip laughed weakly, his wings moving uselessly behind him. “Thank you Gem” he whispered

“Hey, I made a promise,” she answered, hugging him.

***

“Lets go lets go lets go!” Scar yelled knocking on Gems door “the press photos are in ten minutes!”

Gem chuckled as she smoothed out her dress one final time. Now that people had begun to return to the city the press had been begging to get shots of the large group of heroes vigilanties and villains that had saved the city.

“Mumbo K Jumbo if you don’t hurry up i’m dragging you across town” she heard Grian call

“Alright everyone we’ll meet in front of the hero-corp find your seat and just relax” Impulse called, Gem smiled coming over “Miss Tay, i like the new dress” he smiled

“Well tell that to Pearl shes the one who fixed it up after the whole skulk incident” Gem pointed out

“Hey i wasn’t super happy with it anyways so any excuse to fix it was nice” Pearl shrugged, appearing from the void, “i should probably try and fix Grians too but he’s a lot more stubborn” she added with a sigh. Gem laughed slightly adjusting her friends shirt sleeve.

“Alright lets roll” Grian called twirling the keys around his finger

Mumbo took them with a sigh “you’re not driving” he added as they loaded into the truck.

The streets around the hero-corp were filled with people making a wall too thick for the group to slip through. Gem groaned “i knew we should have left earlier” Scar muttered

“We can just cut across the roofs” Grian suggested pulling the latch of a small ladder for the building they stood next to. As it clattered to the ground a ew bystanders turned, there were gasps and murmurs as they stared at the six villains.

Gem froze “Alex get a camera on them!” a female voice ordered as Mable Winter shoved her way through the crowd. “Is it true that you now know the identities of everyone in the hero-corp?” she asked, shoving a microphone in Scars face.

“Hey here’s a story for you Mable” Pearl sighed pushing a wing between the mic and Scar “nosy reporter disappears from her home after harassing a group of villains” she deadpanned

There were more gasps and Gem watched a mother pull her child away from them, “out of respect for the others who helped save MInecraftia we will not be leaking anyone's identities” she answered smiling kindly at the camera “now if you’ll excuse us we need to get up to the stage.” she added, grabbing Pearls hand before she could curse out the camera.

“You know they would have let you around back right?” Katherine asked hauling Gem onto the stage once they finally got through the thick crowd.

“Nope we didn’t actually” she responded, taking her seat, because of how many people there were, most were actually hanging off to the sides besides the few elected speakers.

Ren stood up front, they had decided a mayor was a good person to start with. The crowd below grew silent, their eyes fixated on the stage “everyone give it up for the saviors of the city!”

There were cheers and loud clapping, it made Gems' hearts race. Someone slipped their hand into hers, she made brief eye contact with Fwhip who was seated next to her before turning back to the sprawling crowd. “Now I'm sure some of you must be dying to ask questions so please ask away!”

They were all fairly standard questions; what the fights had been like, were there any close calls, was anyone afraid. But one question struck Gem differently: “what comes next?” a young girl asked

She froze for a moment thinking “well i can’t answer for anyone else but i’m being transferred to the Grimlands” Fwhip answered

Still Gem was silent as the others answered finally she spoke “i’m going to establish myself here, and fight to get what i believe in” she answered

There were a few chuckles from the crowd and Shelby gave her a gentle punch on the shoulder but they quickly moved onto the next question. “Do you think the bonds you made during this will make it more difficult to fight in the future?” someone asked

The group glanced between each other, most of them had had bonds before this had just made more, “well i think i speak for everyone when i say no it won’t.” Scott answered “our jobs are more important to keep us alive” he added.

Finally the questions ended and everyone gathered on the stage, thirty three of them struggling to all fit into the photo, “Sun Weaver you should go in the middle you’re responsible for most of this” Sausage suggested

She was pulled into the middle, surrounded by people she now cared so much about Gem felt proud of what she had done all those months ago healing Grian in the alley.

Notes:

WE HAVE ONE LEFT

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Chapter 43: Some birds sing when the sun shines bright our praise is not for them. But the ones who sing in the dead of night, we raise our cups to them

Notes:

this is the final chapter, thank you all for sticking with me for nine months now and i will see you hopefully whenever my next project begins

“You ready?” Fwhip asked, the pair stood in front of the door of their dads house in Dawn

Gem took a deep breath, glancing over her shoulder at Pearl, Impulse, Scott, Sausage and Katherine “ready as i’ll ever be'' she responded, taking the key from his hand. She had managed to track down her fathers email and after some legal struggles now officially owned the house.

Gem slid the key into the lock, glancing once more back at her friends before carefully opening the house door. The smell of old wood and long gone herbs filled her nose as she stepped into the front room.

***

“Well Miss Tay, there better be a good explanation this time around” the sheriff sighed.

Gem sat down across from him with a smile, she took her time crossing her legs and relaxing “sheriff i’m a doctor i heal any patient that comes to me and i don’t ask where they come from” she answered. In reality she had known exactly where they had come from, another teenager getting caught up in villain work to make ends meet. She had been stabbed in the gut by some old vigilante who patrolled the roads.

“She was carrying stolen goods.” the sheriff pointed out “we’ve also figured out she belonged to the lost generation group” he added rubbing his temples

“As I just stated. I don’t ask where they come from, I just do my job.” Gem sighed standing up “maybe work on fixing the blatant corruption that marks your system before coming after a random doctor.” she added leaving the small interrogation room, it wasn’t uncommon she ended up being pulled in there now so the officers didn’t even blink. “How much is her bail?” Gem asked the woman behind the front desk

“That ones headed to a correction center” she answered “new thing the boss is trying”

Gem pursed her lips but didn’t say anything “right… Well, can I get my jacket then?” the woman nodded handing it over

“I swear at least once a week i get a phone call you’re getting questioned again” a voice sighed once she was outside

“Well if it isn’t the great hero Slate” Gem gasped mocking surprise as her brother smiled back

“They’re gonna catch onto you if you keep getting caught Miss Sun Weaver” Fwhip pointed out

“Nah they won’t, they don’t have enough proof anyways” Gem responded “i don’t have a car can you drive me home?” she asked

“Yeah come on” Fwhip gestured for her “so how was the city?” he asked

“It’s good, it's good! The hero’s all say hi and Pix said to not overwork yourself” Gem responded

“I’m trying” he yawned adjusting his grip on the wheel

“Oh i have a invitation for you, uh Chromias finally reopening so Scotts forcing me to give out invitations to the people who’ve moved out this way”

“Two years later and its finally fixed” Fwhip murmured “i would have expected him to push for it faster”

“He genuinely didn’t care, he’s more focused on his plan to take down the outsiders program, and repainting all the paintings he lost” Gem explained

“Oh yeah you helped with that right?”

“Yeah i did, it was weird painting people i’ve never met but since i have the memories it made sense” she shrugged “it’s helping Scott and Pearl find some peace though so…” Fwhip nodded “hows your wings?”

“It’s been a hard process learning to reuse them but now that i’m finally flying again it feels great” he answered smiling “i forgot what it was like to fly” he added quieter

Gem smiled as the car pulled to a stop “we’ll have to go for a flight together once it warms up”

“You’ll have to go easy on me” Fwhip responded “alright take care Gem, and while technically i can’t suggest anything like this as a hero of the law maybe look into getting a hidden room for your more private clients” he added with a calm smile.

“Thanks Fwhip” she responded “and I’ll think about that” she added as her brother drove off.

The lights to Gems house were still on as she stepped in the door “you’re late” Grian sighed crossing his arms as he appeared from the shadows

“Why are you in my house and late for what?” Gem asked her hand instinctively darting for the knife in her jacket pocket “oh my gods the meetings tonight isn’t it?” she gasped

“Yep it is” Pearl confirmed, “and you better have a good reason for them because we’ve got no script”

 

“I got arrested and couldn’t tell the sheriff that I'm a goddess without getting sent to a Lily building?” Gem answered

“We’ll work on that but we gotta go” Grian shrugged as he sliced open a small section of reality. On the other side were the cold thrones of the gods, taking a deep breath Gem stepped through, the gods on the other side greeted the trio of stragglers. Life changed as time went on but she had learned to accept the challenges thrown at her.

Notes:

eventually G3ES will probably return since i've been messing with a sequel for months now

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Series this work belongs to:

• Part 1 of the G3ES world