A Biased King (But Only For You)

by RoseGoldOrigins

Summary:

Technoblade gets slashed across the eyes in battle and loses his sight. Luckily Philza is there to save him but his responsibilities as King prevent him from supporting his friend through his healing.

Frustrated Phil grows cold to his people, they quickly step up offering to help and soon Techno has a loud mouthed servant marching through his quarters.

Tommy helps Techno heal mentally, Wilbur helps him heal physically. Philza eventually has peace knowing his friend is ok.

Everything will be alright.

Chapter 1

Technoblade was a war general unlike any other. He was feared. He was respected. He was known to have slain thousands on the battlefield.

In the hectic hallways of the Antarctic Empire the servants were rushing with heightened urgency as the dredges of war fell away from their kingdom. Technoblade had done it again. He had led their warriors to victory.

In a room most often never used, was a weeping man as he kneeled by his friends bedside. Death was an unwelcome friend of his. He gripped the sheets in a desperate manner with blood stained hands. His long black wings aching from his swift flight and carrying the extra weight.

Technoblade was the figure before him. The man had been valiant on the field but he hadn’t gotten away unscathed.

Phil refrained from tracing his knuckles along his friends face. If he did he would be met with the rough edge of bandages, their white colour long ago stained.

The weight of his crown felt unbearable as he watched the small rise and fall of Techno’s chest.

His kingdom needed him — now more than ever. Chaos was sure to erupt if he didn’t move but Phil couldn’t find it in himself to care. Techno was in need too. And Phil truly was a biased man.

A nurse knocked quietly at the doorway. Phil didn’t move as she slowly approached.

“Your highness.” She started in a whisper.

The room was eerie whilst the castle halls outside were loud. She looked around the room helplessly wishing someone was there that could help her in reaching him.

“We have done all we can to save him. Please. Your people need you. He will live.”

Phil sighed, tense muscles lowering as his feathers ruffled.

People were asking for him now. That wasn’t good.

He fiddled with the ring on his hand, mind in despair and indecision. He was a mess. To save Techno he had drawn his sword and entered the fray. Rising above the sea of fighters he had declared the defeat of the opposition’s leader.

Techno had only fallen after he had gotten his kill. Of course he did.

Clutching his friend close, Phil had been appalled by the slash across Techno’s eyes. It was an aimed attack. A dirty trick.

Phil was in no mood to pretend he was happy. He wanted no more than to stay by Techno’s side until he woke up, he wanted to make no move until he knew Techno was ok.

And would he be ok?

Phil didn’t think so…

But nevertheless, with a heavy heart he let Techno’s hand slip through his fingers as he stood and followed the nurse back into the fray of his castle.

“I want no less then three of my most trusted guards looking out for him.” He spoke, straightening and pushing his hair into a neater mess.

“Two nurses and my closest advisor as well. If anything happens to him this kingdom is falling down with him.” He said gravely. The woman nodded and took her leave with a bow. Phil let one last scowl cross his face at the situation before inhaling and schooling his features.

It was time to act his part as king.

Chapter 2

Technoblade advanced through the battlefield with heavy swings, feet sinking into the wet upturned earth, scowl set permanently in concentration.

The crowd parted like an ocean in a storm — people stumbling to avoid the famed general.

It was slow but the opposition’s leader came into view.

Techno narrowed his eyes.

Iron meeting unforgiving iron. Techno and the opposition’s leader duelled. He was a young thing. Not so in age but experience. A leader should never be on the battle field. A man who wanted to win should never directly meet Technoblade’s wrath.

Techno sliced him down. As he carved a path around him Techno turned to declare his victory.

He never got the words out as a man stepped forward.

Techno met his sword and the two were horribly uneven. Techno kept the fight going only long enough for the man to realise he was going to lose then moved in to take the final blow.

The weaker sword fighter yelped with fear reaching his eyes. In his last moment as the sword came towards him he stilled and lashed his weapon viciously towards Techno’s face.

Technoblade tried to dodge but it caught him none the less.

Techno roared in pain as he stepped back. His sword had taken the man out but…

Techno’s ears caught the sound of fighting around him. He was vulnerable. He was going to die. Anger and despair arose within him. He was in so much pain… He didn’t know what was going on especially as Phil’s familiar grasp held him to a beating heart.

Blacking out he knew he wouldn’t make it.

 

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Philza usually liked seeing his people in celebration.

If they were dancing and singing, stumbling on tipsy feet and flourishing their gowns it meant they were safe and he’d done a job well done.

Philza felt nothing of the sort as he scowled into his goblet. His ire rose as the music twisted into the air, he gripped his drink tighter as someone laughed at the edge of the room.

Philza hated being the king like he never had before. He’d always relished in his status feeling good knowing he had the best intentions for his people.

Right now he wished they’d all leave the ball room already. He wished he wasn’t the host and he wished he could get a moment of silence to walk the desolate halls towards his injured friend.

This victory came with a price… a price Phil never would’ve traded.

It wasn’t his decision though… It felt like nothing was within his control as he sat on his throne. His people enjoyed their victory ignorant of their king’s displeasure as he stewed at the head of the room.

Someone naively approached him with a gift, congratulating him when all he wanted was his friend beside him. For his friend to be ok…

Their celebrations irritated him. The smiles sent his way made his blood boil for his enemies death.

Philza wasn’t happy.

 

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Technoblade woke up and no ceiling or canopy greeted him as he expected. Confusion distracted him from the discomfort of his wounds long enough for his hand to come up to his face.

Bandages… his eyes.

Techno’s hand wavered in the air before him. He knew it was over but he so desperately wished the universe changed its mind.

Please, he pleaded. I can’t survive without my eyes…

Chapter 3

Philza finally had Technoblade in his arms. Ignoring his duties in order to help his friend Phil soothed his worries, brushed his hair and held him close.

He spoon fed Techno since his hands shook so bad, reminding him he wouldn’t leave just as Techno always stayed loyal to him.

Technoblade insisted Phil needed to return to his position as king but his voice didn’t hold the same vehemence as normal.

Phil’s shoulders dropped as his wings moved to hide his friend more from view.

Technoblade was so weak right now… Phil didn’t know if he could leave with the threat of his friend crumpling to his new reality.

Philza couldn’t lose him…

 

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Philza knew he was an unpleasant person to approach these past few months. He walked the halls with a stony expression and he ordered instead of conversed with the staff as his paperwork piled up on his desk.

Phil didn’t want to talk to anyone so he was quite surprised when his subjects sought him out.

“King Philza…” His assistant said nervously. “There are some people who need your immediate attention in the throne room.”

Phil sighed and began heading in the direction he was directed to.

Marching through the doors as his guards opened them he narrowed his eyes at the group who startled at his entrance.

“Philza!” One of them exclaimed.

Phil pinched his lips at the sound of their reverence.

He wasn’t interested in pretending to be a god - especially when his mortality sat so painfully on his shoulders these days.

Philza moved to walk past them but paused when one of them looked up at him with milky eyes.

“Philza.” The woman straightened with determination. “I heard of what happened, we all did and we wanted to offer our support.”

Phil frowned looking over their faces. Scars, lost limbs and damaged eyes greeted him as his feet stood frozen to the ground.

“I…” He said. “I don’t see how you could help…” He replied weakly.

What were they all doing here…?

A man stepped forward and pointed to his throat. He waved his hands slowly through some sign language and Phil furrowed his brow at his explanation.

He had fought in one of the Antarctic Empire’s first wars… the fire that ignited on the battlefield left a heavy smog that killed his throat and damaged his lungs. He remarked that he was one of the lucky ones who got to keep his eyesight but he’d lost the ability to speak and had been mute for several decades…

Phil looked up at him. “I’m so sorry…” He started.

“No no-“ A woman interrupted. She stepped forward and showed off her missing hand. “If there is one thing about the Antarctic Empire it’s that its an honour to serve.” She put her hand on her heart and bowed slightly. “I lost my hand working as a nurse on the battlefield. I was attended to immediately and got compensation when I came home.” She smiled. “My family has been looked after well and my community supports me every day, when the goings are easy and especially when they get tough…”

Philza felt a gentle smile grace his face. That was why he made that system in the first place… He valued his people and honoured the sacrifice they put into protecting his kingdom.

To hear they felt the same way and helped each other though… That was all on them. A king couldn’t bake his neighbour a pie or feed the local shopkeeper soup when they fell ill. He did his best but he was not the curator of his kingdom’s sense of community… All he was capable of was offering them gold for their troubles.

A boy stepped forward straightening to his full measly height.

“I got attacked on the border.” He said pointing to the slash over his right eye. It marred his face and tainted the integrity of his muscles as he smiled. “My mum was horrified when I came home but the guards hugged me tight and bandaged me best they could.” The boy’s smile grew strained at the memory. “I know I was lucky but I didn’t feel it for a long time… a few years ago my mum took me to a neighbouring kingdom and…” He frowned. “The guards weren’t as nice… They- They bullied the friends I made on the streets and called me names that weren’t true…” He inhaled shakily, the blind woman next to him putting a hand on his shoulder.

“When I got home,” The boy said. “The guards cheered for me and hugged me tight saying they missed me.” His eyes welled with tears. “They called me their ‘hero’ and made me feel safe again.” The boy looked at Philza with determination. “I wouldn’t want to live anywhere else.” He rushed forward and hugged the King’s legs. “Please don’t feel sad.” He begged into the fabrics of his clothes. “I know your friend is hurt but if he was anywhere else he wouldn’t be looked after as well.” The kid looked up at him with big pleading eyes. “I bet he loves you very much.”

Phil’s heart ached as he kneeled down and gave a proper embrace to the kid. Tears fell down his face as words failed him, a throat cleared above him making him look up.

It was the blind woman. “I understand how you feel…” She put a comforting hand on his shoulder. “There were many people who had to watch me suffer after I lost my eyesight.” She gestured to her white eyes. “But the pain and misery didn’t last forever.” She said. “I got back on my feet with the help from those the same as me.” She tilted her head with a smile. “Did you know a lot of injured people seek sanctuary in our city?” Phil shook his head surprised. She chuckled gently. “It’s not pleasant being disabled in other kingdoms… here there are devices everywhere for me to get around.” She held out a small book. It was worn and impossible to read the cover of. “I heard the general likes books…” She smiled. “This is the best place to start.”

Phil took the book from her and opened it to a random page. The kid in his arms turned to curiously peak at it too. It was… Phil traced his hand over the bumps and ridges. It was a beginners guide to braille…

The woman smiled. “There are sections in our libraries with books like these.” Phil shot his head up to her. “I do enjoy people reading to me too.” She winked.

Phil laughed. His people moved closer to huddle around him.

“I never thought he’d read again…” He admitted.

“There’s always a way to enjoy the small things in life.” She assured. “It won’t look the same as before but he’ll be fine.” She squeezed his shoulder gently. “He won’t miss out.”

Phil placed a hand over hers. “Thank you.” He said sincerely. “I appreciate all of your stories…” He looked to each of them. He bowed his head. “I hope I did enough to look after you as heros-”

“You sure did.” A man chuckled lifting up his leg to show the prosthetic reaching his knee. “There is no other country I would’ve died for than this one. You treat us fair and put yourself on the line.” He laughed. “Seconds after I was hit I saw you fly over me to end the battle. Thanks to you I got medical attention immediately.”

Phil smiled. He was always sure to end the battle quickly… it was how he knew Techno was hurt, he was always circling the skies watching the fight.

“You’re a good man Philza.” The woman with the missing hand said. “Our community is raised on your values.” She smiled. “We appreciate everything you do for this kingdom. It’s because of you we’re all standing here today with a good story to tell.”

Philza’s shoulders eased, a weight lifted off them and a part of him feeling better knowing what Techno’s future could look like.

Technoblade didn’t have to suffer…

Chapter 4

Phil poured over the books in the castle library to find ways to better Techno’s lifestyle. He felt guilty being away from him but it would only be a short detour as his friend was left with his best guards and nurses.

Someone touched Phil’s arm and he jolted whipping his head to them as their hand retreated.

“My apologies your highness.” The woman said quickly. “I’ve never interacted with you before, I didn’t know the proper formalities…“

“You’re alright.” Phil reassured. He exhaled leaning back in his seat. He'd just been too immersed…

She nodded uncertainly. “I just wanted to give you a suggestion.” She wrung her hands Phil noting several fingers missing even as she wasn’t bringing attention to them. “Your friend… the general? How would you feel giving him a personal servant?”

Phil furrowed his brow considering her words.

“A personal servant…?” He echoed.

She paused nerves washing away for a moment since he wasn’t outright telling her off.

“You can’t do this all by yourself.” She said solemnly. “As much as you want to, Technoblade needs more than one person to help him recover.” She smiled sadly. “He can’t wait on the king to be by his side.”

Phil’s shoulders fell, he knew that…

“I-“ She started. “I wouldn’t mind filling that position until you find someone you’re more comfortable with.” She exhaled nervously. “I’m not experienced in being a personal servant, I’m one of the kitchen maids you see but…” She finally looked down at her injured hands. “I’ve been around a lot of people who need that extra support.” She flexed her fingers and looked up at him. “Kindness and compassion goes a long way to wounded soldiers.”

 

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Philza had warned Techno of a change of staff before he unsettled their routine.

Techno appreciated it, years of serving the king made his displeasure to stationed guards moved without his prior knowledge well known.

“I can’t protect you if I’m not in the know. I don’t want gaps in our security.” Techno had said sternly.

These days it felt like Techno didn’t know much of anything. Philza could be in constant danger of assassination, the new recruits could be eating during their work hours or playing card games and Techno would be none the wiser. He hated it.

Someone could be hanging from the rafters right this second and Techno wouldn’t know.

He almost welcomed the adrenaline of a fight. A good stabbing would make his dreadfully boring room interesting at least. He had nothing much to do other than suffer in a loop of existential dread.

The door opened with a bang making Techno jump.

“Never fear your saviour is here!” Someone declared loudly.

Techno frowned tensing his fists for a fight if needed.

Who was this stranger?

They sounded young…

A man laughed entering the room and placing something on Techno’s dining table. “Tommy you’ll give the man a heart attack. King Philza said be gentle.”

The boy guffawed. “Gentle? Are we talking about the same guy? Technoblade is known for being a brutal general.” He declared proudly. “I’m not softening up for him unless he yells at me to.” He tacked on entering the room.

Techno heard the tap of a walking cane and the following sound of the boy dragging his foot.

Tap, drag, stomp, tap, drag, stomp-

The boy scoffed. “Place is a mess…” He muttered. “Oh hey Blade!” He shouted.

Technoblade turned to the kid’s voice with a glower.

“Yep! Terrifying scowl, that checks out.” The kid laughed. “Hey Wilbur!” The boy addressed his companion. “We’re definitely in the right room!”

The man groaned. “I know we are Tommy.”

“Well I was just confirming.” There was the rustle of fabric like the boy was making a gesture. “Anyways…” The kid continued walking around the room.

Tap, drag, stomp, tap, drag, stomp-

The rhythm was a bit faster once the boy knew he was where he wanted to be.

Techno couldn’t fathom how Phil had ever authorised these two to be in here.

“The King thinks you’re lonely and need friends.” Tommy said loudly. “I mean you were always a recluse before, sticking with your soldiers and all that.” He muttered it a bit quieter almost like a child bitter at the fact they were left out of something.

“Well.” The kid said tapping his cane and stopping. “First things first is this room is not safe for the blind.” Techno could hear his grin. “Let’s fix that shall we?”

“Don’t touch my things.” Techno deadpanned.

“And he does talk.” Tommy teased. “You know Tubbo would be disappointed in you.” Tommy turned to something and started making noise by moving things. “You need to stand up for yourself. Shout at me about personal space and all that. Boundaries. I heard they’re healthy but I don’t care.” He hit his foot against the ground almost in emphasis. “Walking over things is my jam.” He paused and turned to Techno. “If you hear anyone say otherwise it’s slander.” He said seriously. “My friends can’t be trusted…” His voice moved like he was changing the direction he was looking at swiftly.

“What…?” Techno frowned, his expression pulling on his bandages uncomfortably.

Tommy laughed. “Right. Explanations… Tubbo loves a good audio cue. Well.” Tommy cleared his throat. “The King wanted to have people around you who understand your predicament. I-“ He declared. “have a deadweight foot so I get travel is hard. Don’t get me started on stairs… My best friend is blind just like you! His name’s Tubbo… I promised I’d smuggle him in here if I got the gig. Big fan by the way.”

Techno raised his brow on instinct but it didn’t have the same effect with his face covered.

Tommy gasped anyway. “Omg! The iconic eyebrow raise! You know I watched you train the troops for weeks a few years back. Stupid job got in the way from me visiting more but you’re a legend!” Techno heard the tap-stomp of the boy getting closer. “You always had this perfect look you’d shoot people and they’d fall in line immediately. Your drills were so cool and whenever you did a demonstration!” Tommy’s excitement overwhelmed him. “You made fighting look incredible! I want to be just as good as you someday!”

Techno sighed. “Look kid I can’t exactly share your enthusiasm. I’m not in my prime anymore…”

“Pssht.” The kid blew his concerns off. “Nothing takes down the Blade. Did you know Tubbo perfected that same look as you did?! I don’t how he did it when he’s never seen you before but he always makes me feel so guilty! It’s kind of like ‘I’m disappointed in you. You know better. Fix this.’ Isn’t that awesome! I bet if you glared at a soldier even now they would hurry to attention. They’d have ptsd from receiving your disappointment in the past and clean up their act like you could see right through those bandages-!”

Techno’s shoulders fell as the kid rambled. He’d never thought of that… He thought that he’d never walk to the training grounds again, he thought he’d never command a troop or order them through drills… He still thought that was a bit far fetched but he lived in the castle… He walked the same halls as Phil’s soldiers, the soldiers Techno trained so it made sense. Maybe once he was recovered a bit and free from the wrapping on his face he could still be a part of their world.

 

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Tommy got Techno standing and asked for his opinion on everything in the room. “This orientation sucks! We need to hide those sharp edges, clean up any junk you don’t need and have a place for everything!”

Techno frowned as Tommy led him by the arm. He stopped at his desk and got Techno to feel everything there to tell him what was important.

Techno didn’t know… The papers honestly scared him. The reports on troop placement and the history of their enemies kingdom all forgotten after the war was won and Techno… lost his eyes.

Tommy talked him out of his head. “I’ll stack those papers and give them to King Philza. He’d probably know what you’d want done with them. Besides that-“ Tommy put all the paper on Techno’s chair out of reach. “What are all these decorations on your desk?”

Techno huffed feeling dried ink on the table. He traveled to several empty ink pots and felt his way to his broken quills.

“Guess I never clean up…” He said. “They’re not decorations though.”

“Awesome.” Tommy picked them up and dumped them in a bucket. “No emotional attachments? It goes in the bin.”

Techno paused and looked towards him.

Tommy hummed. “We’ll keep only the things you can use on the table for now. Tubbo likes having a bowl of candy on his right and a book and quill on his left.” Tommy leaned over to grab something off the table. “The scratch of the nib on the paper feels nice apparently. He draws simple shapes without ink so its the only thing on his desk. What will you put here?” Tommy asked.

Techno shrugged. He didn’t know yet. Writing had never been particularly fun for him since it was always work and he seemed to be the only one in the whole castle who put effort into making his handwriting eligible.

Tommy clicked his tongue. “Guess we’ll come back to that later. What’s with this thing?”

“What?” Techno asked expecting Tommy to shove it into his hands.

“To your left, bottom of the desk.”

Techno moved his hands then and hit something hard. He knew what it was immediately.

“A statue…” Techno supplied.

Phil had bought it for him. They had gone out to the markets and Phil left for a moment to come back with the statue. It was a boar charging forward leaving mud and rocks in its wake.

It was bought from an artist. One Techno had approached later to commission a crow barreling through the air. Phil had loved the return gift teasing Techno for never being able to accept things one way.

‘I’m just like the boar Phil,’ Techno had joked. ‘Bullheaded.’

Phil scoffed at him fondly.

Techno traced the grooves of the statue now. It was heavier than Techno recalled with more detail that his thumb traced over. He felt its eyes and expression, moving to its tusks and softly shaped snout.

“You think it belongs on the desk or the side table?” Tommy asked. His tone was calmer like he could sense the significance to Techno.

“Leave it here…” Techno put it down. “This was always it’s place…”

Tommy clicked his tongue in agreement and moved to the next part of the room.

“I ain’t touching your wardrobe but this looks fun!” He declared.

Techno followed the sound of the boys steps quietly grateful he wasn’t light footed like the servants. People randomly appearing in his room and often far too close to him left him uneasy. With Tommy’s exuberant personality Techno could feel his shoulders ease for the first time in weeks.

“A dressing table. Really?” Tommy asked.

Techno passed a look in the boys general direction. “Don’t judge me. You have no idea how much goes into looking good at events.”

Tommy chuckled. “True. Never been to one officially.”

Tommy grabbed a few empty bottles and threw them in the bucket. “Do you have anything important here?”

Techno shifted weight and tried to remember what he’d left there.

“Psht.” Tommy laughed. “Waste of time doing that Blade, go up and touch things! Get comfortable with it, own your space!”

Techno hesitantly approached the table and ran his hands over the surface. He hit many small pins and bottles finding three different hairbrushes and a hair lucky he’d misplaced.

He bit his lip trying to imagine them in his minds eye, it was hard considering not everything in this room was his per say. Servants entered and did his hair, fussing over the contents of lotions and creams then sending him off to play his part as general. He stood by the King’s throne and intimidated the room, warning ill intent off by looking like a force of power.

He sighed growing frustrated.

“Alright, alright.” Tommy stepped forward. “You got a favourite hair brush?”

Techno nodded slowly.

“Here.” Tommy gathered all the hairbrushes up. “Middle of the table. Tell me which one is yours.”

Techno tested his fingers against each of them finding his favourite where the bristles treated his hair the kindest.

“Cool. Put that one to your left then tell me if any of the others are good.”

Techno shook his head. He knew all the others tugged and bristled his hair.

“Alright.” Tommy grabbed all the remaining brushes. “Want me to chuck these out or send them to the servants quarters?”

“To the servants.” Techno said rubbing his thumb over the brush in his hand.

Tommy hummed placing them on the chair. He then helped him with the other items on the table getting rid of most things until the hair pins and hair luckies had their place with Techno’s hair brush given a special spot against the mirror.

“Awesome!” Tommy clapped. “To Wilbur! We need to make sure you don’t get hurt by his stupid alchemy!”

Techno followed the eager boy and soon the sound of bubbling reached his ears. A whiff of smoke hit his nose with the smell of herbs filling the room.

“Hey Technoblade.” Came an amused voice.

“Wilbur tell him what you’re doing! Just to let you know Blade you’re whole dining table is a mess, and from experience- Um… well, don’t knock anything over because I blew a hole through the wood once!” Tommy laughed bashfully.

“Actually that particular table was stone Tommy.” Wilbur reminded with a smile.

“Cool, well we didn’t need him to know that!” Tommy hissed.

Wilbur chuckled. “Nothing on this table will cause an explosion.” Wilbur assured Techno. “That would be foolish on my part and I doubt the King would forgive me if you got hurt.”

Techno nodded sensing a backstory between the boy’s relationship.

“I’m an alchemist.” Wilbur explained. “And the king ordered me to concoct some elixirs to improve your healing.” He added something to the potion causing a hiss to reach Techno’s ears. “I make potions and salves having been the leading alchemist during the war.” His voice held a smile. “I’m glad its over… We were using more than we could craft. Within a few days there would’ve been no reserves to pull from.”

“I know.” Techno remarked.

“Oh.” Wilbur said surprised.

“You’re report was on my table.” Techno indicated his head to his desk. “It was one of the reasons I entered the battle to end the bloodshed. We needed the victory before suffering hit our people.”

“Um, well…” Wilbur seemed lost for words. “I didn’t expect you to read that honestly…”

“Yes you’re handwriting did serve as a challenge.” Techno smiled. “Philza informed me of what you were working with though…”

“The one hand.” Wilbur laughed clearly holding it up. “Prime you wouldn’t believe the cramps I got from working all day.

He moved around the table and stood across from Techno. “Want to feel where it cuts off? Don’t worry its an old injury.” He chuckled. “But Tubbo could never imagine what it looked like until he touched it.”

Techno hummed unsure. He’d felt many battle scars before (since there were plenty of soldiers he worked with that stayed on duty after getting injured) but he’d never done it while blind…

“Here.” Wilbur grabbed his hand gently. “This is my good hand.” He joked. “Calloused and rough… Alchemy is hard enough with two hands. You need to be precise and careful around burning liquids.” Techno rubbed his thumb over the mangled skin. “And with the one it only makes sense I drop a few things.” Wilbur smiled. “Gotta be grateful I can still do what I love though. Tommy used to be a runner-“

“And I still am!” Tommy declared. “You should’ve seen the last sprint I did. Tubbo pushed me in a cart and we broke a new record!”

Wilbur exhaled fondly. “How was the landing?”

“A beautiful display of splinters!” Tommy laughed. “And ain’t no soldier beating that speed! I still got it!”

Techno chuckled at the image. A blind boy pushing an irresponsible kid through the streets. The crash was inevitable but the pride in Tommy’s voice was unique. Not many would’ve considered that stunt a success.

“Oh boy…” Wilbur said despairingly. “Here.” He guided Techno’s hand to his other arm. “Let’s stay on track before Tommy invites you to burn a building down.”

“Ooh! I like that idea-!”

“No.” Wilbur cut him off.

Techno felt where Wilbur’s arm cut off. Scarred tissue rounding off half way up his forearm.

“See nothing to worry about.” Wilbur smiled. “I could get a prosthetic made, but… with my luck it’d get in the way. I don’t need more accidents in the lab than I already do.”

Techno nodded.

Wilbur was right, now Techno could understand where his arm ended.

“I can’t believe you make potions like this…” Techno remarked. He recalled how full on alchemy was and the way masters of the craft had assistants to get the harder mixtures done.

“You adapt to what you’ve got.” Wilbur shrugged. “But I chose to work for Philza specifically because it was the only place who’d allow me to serve the castle. Other kingdoms believe it inhibits my work. My potions are the most potent and effective though. Speaking off-“

Wilbur stepped back to his work and turned the heat off. He grabbed a mitten and poured the boiling liquid into smaller vials placing the hot beaker back on its tripod.

Swirling one of the vials it changed colour to a warm yellow glow.

“Here.” He handed Techno the vial. “Drink this now then in a few hours you can have another one. It’s like fuel for your body. It speeds up the healing process without the side effects of a healing potion.”

Techno nodded and downed the drink. Immediately his stomach felt warm and his muscles loosened. It was more enjoyable than the bone deep exhaustion from a healing pot.

“Thanks.” He said handing the vial back.

“No problem.” Wilbur smiled. “Just doing my job.”

 

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Philza was fond of the team forming around his friend. Learning more of Tommy’s quick wit and Wilbur’s sharp tongue Phil was pleased. The boys became a staple just as much as the famed general marching after them with a red cloth over his eyes.

Technoblade’s stature was as intimidating as ever. Young recruits approached him in awe and many aimed to chat with the legendary hero.

Techno helped in the castle in new ways, no longer defending but Phil found there were plenty who would defend him in turn.

His kingdom had found a new way to flourish. Philza’s heart warmed and his smile found its way back to him as he watched over everyone.

He had his friend back… he’d learnt how loyal his people were and he was grateful.

Philza was happy.

Notes:

*I have no experience with being blind so these depictions are inaccurate. Enjoy this fantasy world :P*

Chapter 5

Technoblade had thought he’d never command a troop again. That his days of ordering soldiers through drills was over.

“Darren is slacking again!” Tommy’s voice echoed loud and clear through the air.

Techno smirked.

“Darren pick up the pace or I’ll have you run this lap again!”

“Sir yes sir!” The man yelled out of breath.

Techno ordered them the same as before. Nothing much had changed other than the fact Tommy sat on the sidelines cheering him on and being his eyes.

“Hell yeah! You tell them Blade!” Tommy laughed.

His energy was greater than everyone else's in the early morning because he was elated to be a part of it all. The soldiers were not as enthusiastic.

“Did I say slow down?” Techno yelled.

The sound of dull boots hitting the ground sped up at getting caught. Techno was pleased with how much he could pick up on with sound alone. His lessons held the same rhythm as before he lost his eyesight simply because he lived and breathed this lifestyle.

The soldiers arrived at the end of the track many keeping their distance even as Techno couldn’t see them. They were too scared of getting within range. Technoblade was known for striking out or grabbing at anyone who looked too out of breath or disconnected from hearing his orders.

Techno straightened and he could hear all the men stand to attention immediately. It left a feeling of gratification within his heart. He still held authority even as he wasn’t the general. His position had been passed to someone else but he ran drills with Tommy’s help and the guards acted like he never left.

“Dismissed.” He declared after assessing all their breathing rates. Some liked to act winded and that kind of behaviour was immediately met with more drills.

He could feel the soldiers stiffen like Techno was running his gaze over them in the old days.

Once he’d given his command they nodded and began moving to get cleaned up.

“Yes general. Er- I mean-”

Techno smiled at the small handful who still stumbled over his old title.

“Don’t let the general hear that. He might think you like me more.” Techno teased.

The men laughed in relief saluting and rushing after their peers.

Techno scoffed and turned to where Tommy sat a few metres away.

“Techno! Techno! Techno!”

Tommy was running towards him as always. He could only contain himself long enough for Techno to dismiss the troops then all formalities were out the window.

“You should’ve seen their faces! I swear one guy wanted to pass out and the other wet himself when you looked in his general direction!”

Techno rolled his eyes at the boys glee. It was his favourite pastime to see how scared the recruits were around Techno’s authority.

“I told you not to bother them-“

“I’m not! I’m just observing!” Tommy said with a suspicious amount of smile in his tone. “You know after you’re last duel the new guys went silent. When you knocked one of the highest ranking guards off his feet that blabber mouth kid went pale in the face!”

Techno snorted having heard all about the new recruits who were suspicious of Techno’s reputation and how Tommy started fights to defend his honour.

“What did you say to them?” Techno asked in resignment.

“Nothing!” Tommy shouted in delight. “I didn’t have to! They looked to me and I gave them a smug smile! Honestly best moment of my life, finally they realised how cool you are!”

Techno tried to hide how warm he felt at Tommy’s words. The boy believed in him so strongly… it was why his recovery was so fast. It was why he’d agreed to that duel in the first place…

A fight with wooden staffs. A test to see if Techno still held his skills after his blindness.

Thankfully it was with a man Techno had fought before. Alex was a high ranking guard but Techno knew all his weaknesses. He’d let the man take the first hit and with the same three retreating steps Techno always used in the past Alex got confident and landed on the wrong leg. Techno hit his opponent fast knowing exactly how tall the guard was so his knee crumpled immediately.

The small crowd that had formed gasped as Alex fell down.

Techno straightened knowing the man would admit defeat easily after facing embarrassment.

“Still think I’m weak?” Techno taunted.

Alex let out a disbelieving scoff. “I can’t believe I fell for the same trick…”

Techno held his hand out. “You were always too confident you could out-train me. This time your mistake was to underestimate me.” Techno smiled as the man took his hand and stood up. “Which I must say is a first.” He remarked.

“Oh lay off.” The guard ripped his hand away and rolled his shoulders. “I finally thought I had one up on you. Is that really a crime?”

Techno tilted his head with a smirk. “Challenging a blind man to a fight? I think the King might have something to say about that.”

Alex was quick to scurry away after that. Many other soldiers stepped forward to praise Techno, a few challenged him good naturally and within two successful duels Techno had his confidence back.

He could hold his own… His fighting style had to change as he took hits to learn where his opponents were but he enjoyed it. He got his adrenaline rush back and he found his rhythm.

“Ready for your own training or we gonna hover around talking smack about others?” Techno asked as he began walking to the weapons room.

“Training of course!” Tommy exclaimed.

It was the whole reason Tommy woke up each morning with so much energy.

Techno chuckled ruffling the boys hair.

“Hey!” Tommy smacked his hand away. “Why are you getting better at that?!” He asked affronted.

“Hate to break it to you kid but you’re not changing height much.”

“Ugh! You’re worse than Tubbo!” Tommy yelled “You blind people and your sixth sense!”

 

----------

 

It was always Tommy’s dream to join Technoblade’s army.

Techno nudged his foot to widen his stance.

Prime he never thought he’d get here. Not with his, you know-

“Weight centred.” Techno remarked.

Tommy grinned trying to calm the energy buzzing under his skin. His deadweight foot protested as he centred his weight but it was so worth it.

Technoblade’s hand traced his arms and moved them into position, he touched his shoulders and ordered them to shift.

Tommy shivered trying to hold himself still as his leg complained.

“Weapon-“

Tommy held it up in front of him. Techno moved to test his grip on the hilt.

“Tommy?”

“Yes?” Tommy whipped his head to the former general.

Techno placed his hands properly against his skin.

“Why are you shaking?” The blind man tilted his head.

“Uh…” Tommy bit his lip.

He couldn’t let his foot ruin this again. Just because he needed his cane 24/7…

“Tommy you lie to me about that foot and I’ll refuse to train you.” Techno turned to him with a serious tone.

“No!” Tommy yelped. “I-! Ok, maybe it’s struggling a little but no pain no gain right Techno?” He laughed breathily.

Techno pushed him and Tommy screeched as he went down. Techno grabbed him mid air holding him up with a stern look.

“That only applies to healthy soldiers in their prime.” Techno growled. “If this training debilitates you further you will face my wrath.”

“Ok ok!” Tommy put his hands up then let them fall on the warriors arms when he didn’t get an immediate reaction.

Tubbo tended to like a physical cue too when he told Tommy off…

“I was just being silly! Obviously I’ll tell you when we’re pushing it.” Tommy appeased.

Techno narrowed his eyes at him from behind the red cloth. “You better.” He warned lifting Tommy up so he could get his feet under him.

Tommy grinned enjoying for a moment being held in the air with one arm by his hero.

Prime Techno was so cool…

Tommy staggered as he felt gravity again Techno slipping his arm under his shoulders to keep him upright.

“We’re taking a break.”

“Aww man…”

“I don’t want to hear it.”

Tommy withheld his remarks.

After all he wanted this. He’d do anything to remain in Technoblade’s orbit. One little hiccup wasn’t going to stop him.

 

----------

 

Tommy never lost his excitement for learning. He soaked Techno’s training up and he got better making Techno proud. They worked within the limits of his leg and Tommy’s fighting style formed.

Techno loved watching him grow. Soon Tommy was kicking his legs and sparring with long ranged weapons.

The way Tommy enjoyed Techno’s passion for fighting made something deep-seated heal within him. He learnt new ways to navigate his blindness as they trained and as he walked through the halls he found manoeuvring around equipment was second nature from years of living around the soldiers.

Tommy was always at his heels and having that companionship, that constant buzz of enthusiastic conversation Techno felt at ease within the castle.

He was blind but he was never blindsided. Tommy protected him from anyone with poor intentions and he quickly slipped between Techno and any sharp edges.

Technoblade was happy. He had someone who understood him and he had a friend.

Life was not over for him. In fact it had only just begun.

Chapter 6

Techno scrunched his face at the sharp sound of Tubbo biting into an apple.

“Must you be so loud?” He asked.

Tubbo snickered. “I’m a teenager Blade. Get over it, we can’t all grow up in castles.”

Techno frowned. “I learnt my manners decades before Philza built his empire.”

Tubbo went quiet mulling that over. Techno shifted his legs feeling the grass bend under his weight.

“Where did you learn your manners then? Tommy never stopped harping on about your dedication and discipline. I thought you were raised like that.”

Techno hummed. “Training. Phil and I were on the road a lot. We came across many people and the ones I idolised valued discipline and honour.”

Tubbo snorted. “Sounds like you got that from the army.”

“I did.” Techno supplied simply.

He dragged his hand across the grass to feel where the sun patches warmed the Earth. He wanted to stay in the shade to avoid a sunburn but it was hard to discern where he sat with Tommy gone.

“Which army?” Tubbo asked taking a more casual bite of his apple.

Techno scoffed at the memory. “Funnily enough it was the villages who had the most honourable warriors. They were grounded…” Techno’s hand stilled. “They fought for people not land.”

Tubbo mulled the information over. “So you weren’t actually in the army back then?” He asked.

“No…” Techno smiled. “It started with observing them… Then I asked questions.”

Tubbo snorted. “Bet it didn’t take long to start that obsession.”

“Yeah.” Techno chuckled. “Tommy and I are the same in that way. I found every mentor I could from various different settlements. Phil grew tired of my antics when I did drills next to the campfire. I left the tent early every morning to train where I wouldn’t bother Phil.” Techno smiled relishing in the memories. He turned his face to the sky feeling the breeze and imaging the royal gardens vividly. He used to always have picnics here with his friend.

“When Phil founded this kingdom he was pretty surprised with how useful my training became. We built this place fast… and there hasn’t been a force on earth to shake us.”

Tubbo chuckled. “Yeah. That last fight ended abruptly.”

Techno’s face fell thinking of its ending. “I should have done something sooner… I let it drag out and-“

“Hey. None of that.” Tubbo punched his arm.

Techno tensed tilting his head in the direction of the boy.

“Life is full of things we can’t control. Who’s to say doing something sooner would have saved you from going blind?”

“If I had not met that soldier…”

“Psht.” Tubbo leant against him. “Don’t go in circles thinking about what if’s… Trust me it just makes life harder…”

Techno went quiet sensing the weight of the boys words.

“You doing ok?” Techno asked gently.

“Huh?” Tubbo straightened. “I’m fine why?”

Techno exhaled fondly. “Philza sounds the same way when he’s carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders.”

“I’m nothing like the king-“

“You sure are kid.” Techno shuffled closer to him. “Remember he wasn’t always a monarch. To me he’s just… Phil. Good old Phil with the same problems and the same worries…”

Tubbo scoffed. “Really?”

“Yeah.” Techno laughed. “I’ve seen him blush in enough meetings and royal balls.”

“What?” Tubbo smiled perking up. “The king goes red in the face during meetings?”

“It’s so easy to embarrass that man.” Techno confided with a laugh.

Tubbo laughed along with him resting his weight against the former general.

“How else am I like him?”

“Well…” Techno thought about it. “You’re both strong… It takes a certain type of man to command the room and run a kingdom just as it takes a certain kind of boy to put people in their place and command respect.”

Tubbo curled up going quiet as he listened.

“The way you touch hearts also reminds me of him. Philza rallied a lot of families in the beginning to join his cause. It was meant to be a small project… a safe heaven that Philza had always dreamed of…”

Techno smiled at the reminder of Phil’s excited rants, the way his eyes lit up and the energy he gained from talking about the world he wanted to build.

Techno was supposed to be the reasonable one… he was supposed to stop it from getting out of proportion but on this occasion he couldn’t bring himself to stop Phil’s creation. It was such a good cause, so many people were being helped and a part of Techno felt satisfied putting his skills to use to protect and guard.

“I’ve payed attention to the shift in the room when you enter Tubbo. Yesterday when you found Tommy and I in the kitchens all the staff turned to talk to you.” Techno said. “Not many can make the chef soft. He used a tone I’ve never heard before and he made pastries specifically for you. Even I never got that treatment and I’ve known him for years.”

Tubbo laughed covering his mouth. “He has a weakness. Show any amount of interest concerning his daughter's accolades and he gushes about her. He’s so proud to be her father.”

“Huh…” Techno remarked. “I didn’t even know he was married…”

Tubbo shrugged. “Can’t wear a wedding ring in the kitchen. You’ve heard him shout at people for it.”

“Yeah.” Techno nodded with a smile. “Guess it shows how out of touch I am. Generally all I can connect with people about are tournaments and how to polish weaponry.”

Tubbo nodded. “We all have our strengths boss man.”

“Exactly.” Techno sighed. “Just make sure you don’t forget yours.”

Tubbo thought about it. “Yeah…”

“Tommy really idolises you you know.”

“Tommy’s crazy.” Tubbo scoffed. “I don’t peg him as a good judge of character.”

“Hey,” Techno bumped the boy’s shoulder. “What does that say about me?”

“You wore a crown into battle. Tommy likes shiny things and you’re a show off. Connect the dots.”

Techno spluttered. “I thought I was cool.”

“Not with this teen. Do something impressive.”

“Like what?” Techno asked in disbelief.

“I dunno do a handstand?”

“Did you seriously just ask me that?” Techno turned to face him.

Tubbo snickered then full on belly laughed as Techno pushed him over.

“What’s gotten into you two? I left for 5 minutes!” Tommy shouted as he hobbled over with a tray of food.

“You picked a bad friend Tommy. Tubbo’s messed up.” Techno declared.

Tommy laughed. “Oh I know that. Who do you think is the mastermind to all our grand plans? Tubbo just needs one yes and he goes wild.”

Techno groaned. “Great, I’ve misjudged the dynamics of this friendship.”

“Hell yeah you have.” Tommy grinned sitting down and placing the tray between them. “Don’t worry though, you’re not the first.”

Techno smirked and looked in the direction of Tubbo.

“Guess I still have a lot to learn.”

“And I’d be happy to teach you my ways!” Tubbo straightened and flourished to himself. “The blind need to start some forest fires. The sighted have gotten too complacent!”

“Oh god.” Techno face palmed.

“I’m in!” Tommy shouted.

Notes:

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[This story is purely for fun and to progress my writing skills in a topic I enjoy. These are my characters and have nothing to do with the content creators]

Series this work belongs to:

• Part 3 of Polished Works