Chapter Text
Chapter 1: The bird who flew by
-C00lkidd, time to go home!!- 007n7 called out to his kid, they had been on the playground for more than half the evening already and the sun was starting to set. He wanted to be able to get home by foot and not have to use the c00lgui to get there, as he wanted anything but for his child to take after his old ways.
The little kid lifted up his head at the mention of his name, readjusting his colourful cap.
-Coming, dad!- He shouted back, C00lkidd had spent the bigger part of their time there playing with another kid, ever so slightly taller than the red one, with almost ghastly white skin, white hair and some yellow wings on his back, with another pair on the sides of his head.
The two kids approached 007n7, C00lkidd skipping happily and wagging his tail whole the taller one walked calmly beside him, looking around at the rest of the park, like he wasn't accustomed to seeing the outside world.
-Dad!, Dad!, can we please let him stay over?- Both kids faces lit up with excitement.
-I'll think about it. Where are your parents, kid?- 07 asked the one beside his son, kneeling in front of him to match his height.
-I.. I don't know.- His smile faltered, looking down at the floor.
07's expression shifted from a smile to worry, placing a hand on his shoulder.
-You can stay with us until we find your parents, would you like that?- 07 softened his voice, giving the kid a reassuring squeeze, making the child's face light up again.
-Thank you, Mr.- He smiled and nodded before C00lkidd rapidly took his hand and started walking behind his dad.
-So, what's your name, kid?- 07 asked.
-1x1x1x1.- The kid responded with enthusiasm.
07 muffled a chuckle, he wasn't good with naming kids either but c'mon, naming your kid an equation?
-I'm 007n7, and i'm sure you're already familiar with C00lkidd.- He said, patting his own son's head, making the youngest one wag his tail in happiness.
1x's eyes widened at the mention of his name, he had overheard his father mention him on the phone with his coworkers a couple months back.
-My father used to talk a lot about you, Mr. 007n7- 1x exclaimed happily.
07 laughed nervously as he unlocked the door to their house. -Oh yeah? why so?-
-Something about an incident on Mr. Elliot's pizzeria.- 1x said innocently as C00lkidd dragged him inside, both of them falling over into the couch.
007n7 froze in his step as he closed the door. He turned around and paid closer attention to the kid. His wings, the bright red eyes, and that aura he knew a little too well from his youth.
The blood drained from his face as the realization dawned upon him.
He was housing Telamon's kid.
Chapter 2: Two sides of the same coin
Summary:
As 007n7 tries to process the effects this will have on him and his son, or better said, sons, while the "father" living on the Roblox hq begins to suffer the consequences.
Notes:
No notes this time, hope you enjoy!!
Chapter Text
1x sat on the edge of C00lkidd's race car bed as the youngest one looked for something in his drawers.
-I have a gift for you!- C00lkidd exclaimed, wagging his tail rapidly from side to side.
He showed 1x a red T-shirt, the words "Team c00lkidd join today!!!!!" written on the front.
-Team c00lkidd? What's that?- 1x asked with curiosity, seeing that it was the same design C00lkidd was wearing.
-It's my super exclusive secret club!! I'm in a competition with my cousins Bluudud and Pr3ttyprinc3ss!!- C00lkidd exclaimed proudly, signaling at his own shirt.
-And who's winning?- The older one sounded excited, yet C00lkidd seemed a little embarrassed.
-We're tied so far. Our only members on each of our teams are our parents.- He sighed, his tail dropping.
-I'll join your team!- 1x jumped off the bed and stood up next to his friend, his head wings fluttering in excitement.
-You will???- C00lkidd's eyes glistened in joy. Having a member even older than Bluudud will definitely make his cousins jealous.
-Definitely!!- He took the shirt C00lkidd was holding and put it over his green sweater, wiggling a little due to the tightness his wings caused. -I'll just adjust my wings to it.- The friends laughed.
-Kidd, 1x, dinner is ready!- 07 shouted from downstairs, the smell of food filling the house.
-Coming!- C00lkidd shouted back as 1x took off the shirt, both then ran downstairs sitting down in front of the table where the plates were already served.
-I wasn't sure what you would like so I made Kidd's favourite food- 07 squeezed both of the kids shoulders with care.
-Pizza!!- C00lkidd took a slice from the tray in front of them.
-Dad has gotten way better at home made pizza!!- He placed a slice on 1x's plate.
-It's almost as good as Mr. Elliot's pizza!!- He said while taking a bite out of it.
-Right??, though i kinda miss it sometimes.- C00lkidd sighed before continuing eating.
-Mr. Elliot is greatly renowned between my parents and their coworkers!! he'll surely get you some if my father asks for it!- 1x said happily.
-Wait, really?- The excitement on C00lkidd's voice becoming noticeable.
-N-no!- 07's voice coming out a little louder than he intended to. -Don't worry 1x, i'm sure we don't need to get your father involved in such trivial matters.- He shrugged off the kid's offer.
The kids continued enjoying their dinner while 007n7 tried to find an inflatable mattress for 1x to stay in, his thoughts were a mess since they came back from the playground. He already had three jobs to be able to give C00lkidd and him a decent life, how could he manage two now? Why would a god abandon his own kid? If anyone found out, the amount of trouble that he would get into would be enough to send him to the banlands already but he couldn't leave the kid alone. How could someone be so heartless to abandon their child? C00lkidd might not be biologically his, but if anything happened to him, he'd burn the entirety of Robloxia to the ground until he was able to hold him once again, and even if he had just known 1x for less than a day, he would protect that child as if he was his.
-On the Roblox HQ-
The Roblox hq, the most important and the biggest building on the entire city, where the most important people lived, the admins. Everyone who lived there was either extremely wealthy, had some kind of societal status or was a god. Telamon was his angel name, though referred by his closest friends by his human name, Shedletsky, the second most important figure in the entirety of Robloxia, only second to Builderman, the founder of the city.
-Shed, 1x, I'm home!- Brighteyes, Telamon's wife, exclaimed at the entrance as she closed the door. Seconds passed and there was no answer, which was extremely unusual for their son, who always ran to hug her whenever she arrived.
-Shedletsky?- She asked again, a little louder now, yet had the same answer.
-Telamon, come here now!- Brighteyes shouted, a mix of both anxiousness and anger in her voice, and if there was something that could scare a god himself was his angry wife.
-Is everything okay, love?- Telamon ran downstairs, trying to act as normal as possible.
-You tell me.- She asked while crossing her arms, avoiding her husband's hand that was reaching for her. -Where's my son?- Brighteyes demanded.
-Taph? You know he moved in with Dusekkar a few months back, or he's probably helping Builderman right now.- He answered with complete normality which only angered his wife more.
-Don't play dumb.- She rolled her eyes. -Where's my baby?- Her voice sounding even more angry and concerned now.
-1x?, We went to the playground earlier but he just scaped and who am I to stop his free will?- Telamon answered. While it was true, it's not like he made much effort to search for him either.
-Well, I want my son back so i have no fucking idea what you're going to do but you need to find him. Who knows where he is or with who.- She stormed off to 1x's room, slamming the door behind her.
Telamon was never really fond of 1x, it was an irrational thing ever since he laid the egg from where he hatched. Maybe it was the fact that his oldest son, Taph was almost an adult when 1x hatched and he had been working for the HQ for some time by then, maybe it was that he didn't feel capable of raising another child or maybe it was the fact that he saw way too much of himself in 1x. He was never really affectionate, which led 1x to have a better and closer bond with Brighteyes, he was her baby as she called him. Telamon was, of course going to try and find him, but it wouldn't be his main priority, the kid could fend off for himself and with him and Builderman watching over Robloxia, nothing bad would happen to 1x.
-On 007n7's house-
-So, 1x, tell me, how old are you?- 07 asked, it'd make his thoughts, and money, easier to deal with.
-I'm 13 years old!- He nodded.
-He's even older than Bluudud, dad!, can you believe that?!- c00lkidd exclaimed happily.
-It's amazing, buddy.- He ruffled c00lkidd's hair as he helped his son get into his PJ's. -Where do you go to school, 1x?- Maybe if he dropped the kid off on school, his father would pick him up and no one would know that it was him who took him in during the weekend.
-I'm homeschooled, Mr.- 1x shook his head. -My mom and Mr. Builderman teach me most stuff they would teach in schools.
Mr. Builderman. That name sent chills down 07's spine. During the last decade and a half, he had received several threats of being sent to the banlands by that man, his reckless younger self just mocked him and tp'd away using the c00lgui but since he took in c00lkidd eight years ago, he learnt to respect his authority.
-Wait, you know Builderman??- c00lkidd was very excited about his new friend's acquaintances.
-Ahem.- 007n7 interrupted his son, any topic regarding the admins made him extremely uncomfortable as it only reminded him of his past and his bad decisions. -I think it's time for bed, don't 'cha think?- He picked up c00lkidd and laid him down on the race car bed 07 had built himself.
-Kidd, is it okay for you to share a bed with 1x temporarily?- He was honestly embarrassed. This was the kid of Telamon himself, the best swordfighter in the history of Robloxia, the first admin, the god of the city. 1x was probably used to a room of his own that was probably the size of 07's entire house, but hopefully it would only be for a couple weeks at most, then they all wouldgo to their normal lives.
-Of course!!!, I love sleepovers!!- c00lkidd said excitedly, tugging into 1x's arm who laid beside c00lkidd, using his wings as a cover.
007n7 smiled at the sight, he felt a warmth on his chest, true happiness.
-Goodnight, kids.- He turned on c00lkidds dinosaur nightlight before going out.
-Goodnight, dad!!-
-Goodnight, Mr.007n7-
He shouldn't get too attached, it was not a good idea to do so, but maybe he already was.
He'd worry about everything in the morning, for now, his kids were safe.
Chapter 3: An uncomfortable sight
Summary:
What 007n7 thought would be a weekend only thing, rapidly turned into more than a couple weeks and still no sight of Telamon anywhere, only missing child posters that had started filling every corner of Robloxia.
While trying out their new disguises, c00lkidd and 1x meet one of 007n7's old "acquaintances".
(CW! mention of burning and scarring)
Notes:
Chapter 3!! i'm honestly very surprised this little project of mine has gained this attention in such a short period of time HAHAH, it's really motivating and I appreciate y'all <3
Enjoy!!
Chapter Text
Days turned into weeks and 1x was still staying in 007n7's household, with the help of 118o8 they got him enrolled in a public school, though due to homeschooling, he ended up being a year behind and on the same classes as pr3ttyprinc3ss and bluudud, which only made their new little 'family' grow closer.
Though, this new routine did not last long, as not even two weeks in, 'missing child' posters with 1x's photo on them started flooding the streets, it wasn't like 007n7 was attached or anything, but he much rather Telamon himself come find his son rather than giving him out to some strangers for some generous cash. And while yes, that amount would surely give them a better quality of life, he wasn't going to give up his kid that easily. And as no angry swordmen gods or men with ban hammers the size of his car were on his porch, he would make anything on his power to keep the kid safe.
007n7 and c00lkidd weren't going to isolate 1x, this turned him into the main victim of pr3ttyprinc3ss' dress up games and sewing proyects. 1x found the kid's bickering and neverending energy amusing, they never failed to make him laugh even on days where he felt down. He never had much friends growing up, Taph was almost an adult when he hatched, and there weren't much kids on the HQ, so he spent most of his time with adults or on his own. This new side of life he hadn't seen was definitely one he would get comfortable with.
One day during one of their 'adventures', as c00lkidd called them, they decided to test their luck by going into Builder Brother's Pizza.
The building looked good as ever, but on the garage zone it was still getting repairs from an incident occurred a couple months before. An incident c00lkidd knew a little too well.
Before everything happened, c00lkidd and his dad were actually quite close to Elliot!, a little too close if you may. For him, Elliot was his other dad, he spent a lot of time in the pizzeria helping clean, moving small boxes and delivering food to the tables, this would get him candy, pizza or even a bigger allowance, and his dads were happy together, there was nothing else he could've ever wished for.
Yet, this all would come to an end eventually.
Elliot's birthday was coming up, and 007n7 spent weeks teaching c00lkidd a harmless and fun code, the plan was to light up fireworks spelling 'Happy Birthday!' at the end of his shift on the parking lot. c00lkidd had wanted to try out the c00lgui and this would be the only chance 007n7 would give him of that. They rehearsed for days and everything seemed to be flawless.
The day came around and c00lkidd was preparing the c00lgui in the garage, waiting for the clock to hit 10:00 p.m, Sadly, something went wrong and the fireworks went out right there, lighting up the building on fire.
Thankfully, everyone was safely evacuated, 07 was able to heal his son's wounds with some rapid coding, but the scarring wasn't going to dissapear, leaving him with bright red burns on the majority of his body.
Elliot, completely unaware of the plan his boyfriend and c00lkidd had made, went out on both of them, breaking up with 007n7 and blacklisting them both, even getting the admins involved.
Back to the present day, 1x and c00lkidd wanted to test out their new disguises at the request of pr3ttyprinc3ss, 1x wasn't really comfortable having to wear stuff that hid both his back and head wings, but it was a necessary measure they decided to take. Both kids approached the counter where Elliot was taking orders and organizing the money, he briefly looked at them before continuing with his almost automatical response.
-Welcome to Builder Brother's Pizza, may i take your order?- He took out a notepad before silently waiting for the kids.
The kids looked at each other and giggled before 1x started to talk. -May we have a pepperoni pizza and.. two bloxy colas, please?-
Elliot started writing down, after a few seconds he stopped writing and quickly turned his head back to the kids. That red eyes and white hair he had seen clinging to Brighteyes and Telamon on the HQ, and beside him those big black eyes, the little stubby horns and those scars that were a little too familiar.
He discreetly told one of his coworkers to replace his spot before going in front of the counter and taking both kids to the supply zone.
-1x? W-what are you doing here?- He asked, a mix of surprise and concern on his voice. -Your mom and brother have been looking for you during weeks.- He took out his phone and started going through his contacts.
-N-no wait da- Mr. Elliot!!- c00lkidd put his hand on top of Elliot's stopping him from dialing any number.
-You? Again? Hasn't your father explained to you what being blacklisted is? Or is he going to let the gui explain that to you as well?- He pushed the kid's hand away with an irrational apathy, c00lkidd shifted hiz gaze to the floor, to which 1x took off the jacket he had been wearing and wrapped one of his wings around the younger one.
-Mr. Elliot, please wait.- 1x spoke up. -Please let us explain.-
-1x, you need to go home.- He went back to his phone, starting to dial Builderman's number.
-I.. I am home.- 1x stuttered, something barely audible that he wasn't even sure if either of them had heard it.
Elliot froze, his eyes wide with confusion and surprise. He sighed and shoved his phone back on his pocket.
-I won't be responsible for any scolding either of you or c00lkidd's father get from the admins.-
-C'mon, I'll walk you home.- He waited for 1x to put the jacket that hid his wings back on before walking them both out of the supply room. They then approached the counter where Elliot took a box of pizza and their drinks before the three of them walked out together.
The walk back to 007n7's house was filled with extremely uncomfortable silence, c00lkidd was unusually quiet, 1x was worried about the consequences once his family found him and Elliot.. Elliot was worried about seeing the house owner.
007n7 was watching TV when he heard a knock at the door, half expecting it to be his kids, half expecting it to be Telamon, Builderman, Doombringer and Dusekkar. He sighed, composed himself and opened the door.
The sight in front of him was probably worse than the second option. Seeing his ex with his kids wasn't something he ever thought to see.
-Explain to your brat what being blacklisted means if you don't want me to get the admins involved as well.- Elliot reluctantly handed 007n7 the order the kids had placed, both children looking scolded.
-I'm sorry for the trouble, Elliot.- 07 spoke gently, wether he wanted to accept it or not, he still wasn't over the break up.
-Yeah, yeah, whatever.- He rolled his eyes. -How did 1x end up with you anyway?- Definitely wasn't an excuse to talk to 07 more than he needed.
-Kidd befriended him in a playground and i wasn't going to leave him to fend off on his own.- 07 wrapped his arms around both kids.
Elliot sighed. -Just.. be careful, if anyone finds out, this will bury your already non existent reputation even deeper.- He tucked his hands on his pockets, there was still some lingering resentment but he never gave 07 the opportunity to explain himself either, it was a messy break up that none of them was fully over with.
-You don't need to worry about me.- 07 shook his head, signaling for the kids to go eat.
-I'll be leaving now. If you need any help with 1x don't be afraid to send him to me.- Elliot turned around, about to step off when 07's voice interrupted him again.
-Thank you.- He nodded. -I'm still sorry about what happened on your birthday.- He walked closer, placing a hand on Elliot's shoulder.
-Are you really?- He pushed his hand away.
-It was an accident, I promise it was..- 07 sighed.
-Just.. forget about it. I have to go now, Seven.- Elliot walked away, not waiting for a response this time.
07 sighed and walked back in, dropping himself down back on the couch.
1x and c00lkidd overheard the conversation, this now gave them a new plan and idea.
Getting their family back together.
Chapter 4: Mission: Get dad a boyfriend
Summary:
After the unexpected meeting between 007n7 and Elliot, 1x and c00lkidd come up with a plan to get their family back together.
Notes:
Getting to the first act climax!!, hope you enjoy reading this two fall back in love as much as I enjoyed writing them <3
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
During the last week, the time after c00lkidd's and 1x's bedtime was spent by them sneakily indulging in different types of romantic media to come up with a 0% failure rate plan to be able to successfully get 007n7 and Elliot back together. After several hours of discussing all the topics they saw, they came up with a perfect idea.
A dinner date.
Their logic was that in most of the series and movies they watched, the couples fixed their differences or had serious talks in restaurants, they got to the conclusion that this was because people could never get upset while they ate delicious food. Their plan was to ask for 118o8’s help to make a reservation on a fancy restaurant, so then c00lkidd, bluudud and pr3ttyprinc3ss could trick 007n7 into thinking they'd have a fun family dinner while 1x persuaded Elliot into accompanying him to the restaurant before leaving the two of them alone so they could settle down their differences.
1x and c00lkidd high-fived before turning the worn down tablet off and continuing with what had become their nightly routine. 1x covered both of them with his wings, something that made the youngest one fall asleep almost instantly. It was a nightly 'ritual' 1x had learned from his older brother before Taph moved out, Telamon wasn't precisely affectionate towards him, so whenever 1x had nightmares during his childhood, he went up to Taph's room, who covered his younger brother with his wings until both fell asleep. By no means was 1x a neglected child, he had all the love of the world from his mom, brother and the rest of the admins, yet his relationship with his father was always tense.
While Taph looked physically very similar to Telamon, his personality took more after Brighteyes, calm and collected; yet 1x was the entire opposite. He physically took more after his mom, though it had some alterations as he started growing, his then blue eyes turning a bright red, long straight hair, with the difference that his was plain white before some pitch black roots started showing in as he grew up and his relationship with Telamon deteriorated. His personality took after his father, reckless, adventurous and a clear love for sword fighting. This caused both of them to have constant arguments and clashes as 1x entered his pre-teen years. Yet the sudden abandonment was something no one saw coming, the eternally unreadable mind of a god.
Next morning, 007n7 dropped off both kids on 118o8's house so all three cousins could go to school together, c00lkidd explaining the plan to the other two as they walked to school meanwhile 1x explained it to 118o8, who immediately accepted the idea.
-Y'know, I saw firsthand how the breakup affected both my brother and c00lkidd, that man was also getting called dad by him, and I know damn well the big crybaby I call brother hasn't gotten over it. Count me in your schemes.- 118o8 squeezed 1x's hand, as she sat next to him on the couch pulling up the restaurants near.
1x's wings fluttered in excitement. -Thank you, Ms.!!-
They spent the next 20 minutes debating a good place before choosing a fancy Italian restaurant a couple streets down from the pizzeria; the reservation was set for two days after.
The cousins arrived home in the afternoon, the five of them starting to fully arrange what was going to happen that day.
-And what if the pizza guy doesn't take uncle 7n7 back?- bluudud asked with indifference, barely lifting his eyes from the console he had grabbed as soon as they arrived.
-Shhhh!!! Don't jinx it!!!- c00lkidd covered his cousin's mouth.
-If it doesn't work, at least we'll get to use cute clothes in an elegant place while eating yummy food.- pr3ttyprinc3ss added,
-Well, if anything goes south, we'll at least have our first family night with me, right?- 1x asked, a weird mix between guilt and happiness building up on his chest.
-Exactly!!- c00lkidd ran up to hug his brother, the force making them both fall to the floor.
-Little man, don't be so rough with him.- 118o8 helped them both stand up.
-Don't worry, Ms.!, It's nothing compared to sword fighting with my father.- 1x said as he rearranged his feathers.
The kids’ faces lit up. Between them was no secret of who was 1x's father, it had taken some very serious talks to the three of them to get them not to brag to everyone in school that they had Telamon's son living with them.
If there was something all three of them got along with, was their admiration for Telamon's swordfighting skills, so having someone who had sparred against him first hand was amazing to them.
They spent the rest of the time until 007n7 arrived asking 1x questions about his life on the HQ, about the ban hammers, about his father, and how did the city look like from there.
The two brothers then later arrived to their own house with 007n7, ate dinner and got ready for bed.
-You know, i always wanted a real real brother.- c00lkidd said to him as he jumped into bed. -I mean, I have bluudud and pr3ttyprinc3ss but it's different.- He said as he cuddled with his dinosaur plushie.
-Heh, I'm glad you've found that comfort in me.- 1x answered while he changed into the spare PJ's 07 had given him.
-Actually, you kinda remind me of my older brother.- He said as he walked into their bed.
-Wait, really??- c00lkidd looked up at 1x.
-Yeah!!, he has a scar similar to yours, he's way way less talkative than you though.- He chuckled. Taph didn't talk much, he was selectively mute, in fact, and don't get him wrong!, he loves his brother to bits, but the new dynamic he made with c00lkidd was an interesting switch to the routine he was used to.
-Look, this is something I learnt from him.- 1x then proceeded to sign I love you on ASL, it was the first time he had told c00lkidd that, but would certainly not be the last.
-What is that?- c00lkidd looked at 1x with curiosity, he had never seen something like that.
-It means I love you in sign language.- He nodded, repeating the signs slowly so c00lkidd could catch up.
-Like this?- The younger one repeated after his brother.
-Exactly!- The two of then high-fived. -Now you can show your dad something new.- 1x ruffled c00lkidd's hair lovingly.
-Kids, are you ready for bed?- 07 walked in, approaching the two of them that laidon the bed.
Both of them nodded, 007n7 smiled and turned the dinosaur night lamp on before turning off the lights.
-Goodnight, dad!!-
-Goodnight, Mr.007n7!-
The next two days went by quickly, all of them maintained their usual routine until Friday evening came around.
1x had sneaked out of the house with c00lkidd's help, now headed to the pizzeria on the mission to convince Elliot to go to the restaurant, while on the house, the three cousins and 118o8 struggled to convince 007n7 to go.
(On 007n7's house)
-C'mon dad!! We haven't eaten outside in a long while!!- c00lkidd tugged on 07's sleeve, wrapping his tail around his dad's leg simultaneously.
-Kidd, you know we don'thave that much money for things like that..- 07 sighed, seeming sad to not be able to comply to his son.
-Don't worry, Seven!, I'll pay for it, it'll be a cute family outing and the first one with 1x!.- 118o8 sat beside him on the couch, giving him a small push on the shoulder.
-Plus, pre3ttyprinc3ss has already picked out her favourite clothes, doesn't she look good?- She pointed towards the pink girl, who twirled around in a princess dress. -Even bluudud promised to not use any consoles for the rest of the night!- Her son scoffed, starting to regret saying yes to helping them.
-Fine, fine..- 07 sighed, giving into his family's advances. -But where's 1x?- The man looked around the room, searching for the pale kid that popped out between the colourful bunch.
118o8 and c00lkidd shared glances, they arranged to meet at the restaurant but never discusseda backup if 07 found out.
c00lkidd gulped before rapidly stepping in. -He told me he was going to take a nap!, I'll go let him know!- He rapidly hurried upstairs and entered their room.
(On Builder Brother's Pizzeria)
1x walked as quickly as he could, a slight movement under his coat from the instincts of trying to fly to go faster, an urge he had to learn to control since he had to be undercover at all times.
He arrived and walked in, instantly glancing at the counter where he saw the tall blonde man checking recipts and handing over pizza boxes to the eager clients. 1x approached and tried to catch Elliot's attention.
-Mr. Elliot!!- The kid greeted the pizza worker, looking for his eyes.
Elliot recognized the voice he had overheard one too many times before and glanced over the medium-sized figure wearing sunglasses, earmuffs and a dark trenchcoat. It really seemed way more obvious than they thought it did.
-1x? What's wrong, kid?, Need anything?- The man asked, leaning over the counter.
-I was wondering if you could help me go somewhere!, I don't really know the ways around this area of the city.- 1x asked, seemingly embarrassed.
-You're lucky my shifts are shorter on Fridays.- Elliot walked around the counter and stood next to the kid, guiding them both outside the building. The walk there was short, a 10 minute trip at most.
-Here we are, why come here in the first place, tough?- The man asked, letting go of 1x's hand.
-Just follow me!- 1x tugged on Elliot's arm, signaling to keep walking inside.
Elliot followed reluctantly as he watched 1x talk to one of the waitresses who guided them to a secluded table on the open part of the restaurant. They arrived at an almost empty table, another person already sitting on it.
Elliot froze as he saw who was the man on the table, the burger shaped hat, those glasses, stuff he knew all too well.
-I.. I'm sorry kid, I can't stay.- He said while walking backwards. 07 turned his head the way the voice was coming from, his eyes full of surprise and confusion as he locked eyes with the man behind his kid.
He stood up and walked towards them, trying to maintain his distance.
-There must've been a confusion, I was waiting for the kids.- 07 apologized, turning his eyes away.
-Yeah no, I'm leaving, sorry for wasting your time, kid.- Elliot turned away, starting to walk a couple steps before feeling a hold on his hand.
-..Please?- 1x looked at them both, trying to drag Elliot closer.
The two men looked at each other and then at 1x, as if trying to find the right words to say without hurting his feelings.
-Look, 1-..son, sometimes you have good intentions yet they aren't the right thing.- 07 turned 1x around to face him, placing a hand on his shoulder.
1x's gaze faltered, a knot forming on his throat yet he wasn't sure if it was because he had never been called "son" before by his father or if it was because he failed c00lkidd. 007n7 and Elliot looked worried at this sight, both of them looking at each other and sighed.
-Fine, let's give it a shot.- Elliot walked reluctantly towards the table, giving a slight push to 07 as a signal to follow him.
Both of them sat across each other at the table, avoiding the other's gaze at all costs, even with the uncomfortable ambience, 1x's face lit up, he smiled before hurring off the area, approaching the bathrooms where the rest of the kids were waiting for him.
-1x!!- c00lkidd ran up to hug him, getting a few suspicious glances from the waiters passing by. -How did it go?-
-It.. what matters is that they're talking.- He wiped his eyes, returning the hug to the younger one.
-Don't lie to me, Seven, did you know about this?- Elliot asked in an almost demanding tone.
-I promise I didn't!!, they told me it'd be a 'family dinner'- 07 shook his head at the accusation.
-You let a bunch of kids trick you, really?- The pizza worker sounded shocked, almost mocking the hacker.
-Heh, I mean, you're thinking of the son of the man who used to trick admins and a god with ease back in the day.- It wasn't something he was proud of, but his point was made.
-I guess that's true.- Elliot muffled a chuckle, he had to admit that this moment wasn't as bad as he first thought.
07's face lit up as he saw the man in front of him smile, smile because of him, it had been a very long time since an event like that one happened.
The waitress arrived to take their orders and left shortly after, leaving an uncomfortable -almost palpable, silence between them, A thin balance that could shift dramatically with every sound, with every breath.
-So.. how's work been?- 07 spoke up finally, shattering the invisible glass wall into a million pieces, a crash only he seemed to listen.
-Good.- Elliot replied coldly. -It's better without any lousy hacker passing by.-
Lousy hacker, he felt as if the inexistent shards flew right to his heart, but Elliot was right in a way.That was all he ever had been, a lousy hacker.
-O-oh!, that's.. great..!- 07 laughed nervously, trying to hide his stinging heart behind that smile.
Elliot simply shrugged, going back to looking outside the railing into the starry night sky, avoiding the other man's eyes at all costs. His mind was blank yet his heart was racing, was it hatred or just feelings he had buried deep within looking for the surface once more?
They stayed in silence, Elliot looking almost hypnotized by the passing cars while 07 looked at his watch every other minute, like staring at it would make time go by faster, ormaybe turn it all back.
The waitress arrived with their food and drinks, both of them thanking her politely and starting to eat right away, wanting to get out of there as fast as possible.
07 breathed in, trying togather enough courage before talking again,cutting through the deafening silence.
-Elliot, about what happened..- His voice barely above a whisper, circling the glass of water on his hand, eyes locked into the ripples forming on it.
His entire body locked in place, letting the fork fall into the plate. The sound of metal clashing on metal turning the attention of a few people passing by.
-Why do you always feel the need of remind me of that? Is it guilt or mockery, Seven?- Elliot raised his voice, enough to be louder but not much to be heard all across the other tables.
-It was an accident.- 07 muttered, trying to find the other one's eyes.
-Yeah, right. It was an accident until your brat got caught in the crossfire, isn't it right?- He accused, finally locking eyes.
-We spent weeks trying to surprise you, it just backfired..- He explained, placing his hand above the table, 07's fingers barely gracing Elliot's hand.
-What did you expect while using the gui? Play dumb games, win dumb prizes, Seven.- Elliot flinched at the touch, yet his hand stayed in place, unconsciously moving it closer.
-I have been trying to apologize for months, it wasnever my, -our- intention to ruin your day.- His gaze faltered, a glassy coat covering his iris.
-Look, what's done is done, you can't erase the past.- Elliot sighed, his voice becoming softer, gentler, moving his hand over 07's.
-But, can I mend it?- 07 breathed in deeply, his heart skipping a beat as he felt the unexpected warm above his skin.
Elliot stopped, debating wether to follow his head or his heart, they had been together for years prior, he saw 007n7 improve for c00lkid, for him, yet, could he really trust that man again? The breakup was a decision he took on the heat of the moment, when he let his anger and fear take over, but his pride was way too big to ever accept that, to accept that it hurt him as well.
-I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said anything.- 07 moved his hand away, trying his best to swallow down the knot on his throat.
-N-no, Seven, I should apologize too.- Elliot yanked 07's hand back, intertwining their fingers.
-I never let you explain, I never let you apologize, I just let anger, fear and pride take over. I saw you change from the reckless exploiter to a caring and loving father and partner, I saw you change for c00lkidd and for me, and I threw over 10 years of relationship because of my pride.- Elliot sighed, his voice starting to crack.
07's face lit up, a mix between a worryful and happy smile, he held Elliot's hand tighter, gently circling his thumb over the other one's hand.
-So, what's next?- 07 asked, the sadness in his eyes turning into hopefulness.
-Would you like to try again..?- Elliot asked back, the world around them seeming to dissapear, leaving them frozen in the moment.
-I'd love to.- 07 brought Elliot's hand closer, placing a tender kiss on the back of his hand, gesture that made the other man's face flare up in a red blush.
-Thank you, love.-
Notes:
I'm sorry if some parts don't make sense at all but i did this in the span of a week or so (evening school sucks.), if I have time i'll try to revamp some parts but for now, i hope you enjoyed this mess of a chapter HAHAH
Chapter 5: The beginning of the end
Summary:
The admins grow curious about the sudden unblacklisting of 007n7 and c00lkidd from Builder Brother's Pizzeria, to which they go to the city to investigate. Back on the HQ they have a sudden realization that could change everything.
Notes:
IM BACK!! ultrakill, finals and mental health had me in a chokehold but i finally finished this chapter.
I hope you enjoy this as much as I enjoyed writing it <3
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
Another day, another admin meeting in the Roblox HQ, or better said, a lunch break. The admins all sat down at a cafeteria table, one Telamon and Builderman had chosen would be theirs since the moment the city was founded and everyone else just went with it.
-Builder, do you know why that pizza guy unblacklisted the exploiter and his son?- Shedletsky asked, seemingly more interested in gossiping rather than actual professionalism.
-Who?- Builderman responded, trying his best to recall. They had access to all the city's archives so seeing something so unfamiliar sparked curiosity between them.
-Your nephew, what was his name again?- Contrary to his Telamon personality, Shedletsky was more carefree, even coming off as irresponsible. Yet this was a side of him he only allowed during this kind of breaks, out of work hours or with his family. Or so that last one was until 1x started to grow more mature.
-Elliot?- Builderman's expression shifted to one of surprise before quickly turning into one of acknowledgement. -I remember now, I think I saw something in the city activities earlier today.-
-Didn't the hacker try to burn down the pizzeria?- Doombringer interrupted. He was unique, even getting described as a himbo by some of the younger employees, yet he always knew when to act serious when the situation needed it, especially as he was the main wielder of the Banhammer, a title Builderman had passed down to him.
-Yes, Elliot even called us back then to settle the situation.- Builderman nodded along.
-Then, why his sudden change of mind?- Shedletsky responded.
-If I recall correctly, they dated for quite some time, due to Elliot's requests we didn't send him to the banlands due to his years of exploiting and hacking.- The oldest one narrated to the rest of the table.
-Once one's heart is set on a goal, nothing can be done to reverse what's in their thoughts.- Dusekkar added. He always had a way with words, some suspected his more magical nature. Some found him cryptic, others interesting but there were two things everyone agreed on. His intelligence was unmatched and the only one who could truly understand him was Telamon's oldest son.
-You're implying that they got back together?- The three of them looked back at Dusekkar with different levels of confusion in their faces.
-Though motives may remain undisclosed, what had been lit once can't shut down that fast.- Dusekkar shrugged off the pressure of the other admin's eyes over him.
"Why don't we go investigate?" Taph signed. Though not an admin, his father being Telamon, his mother being Brighteyes, being Builderman's assistant and his boyfriend being Dusekkar had instantly put him in an almost equal position to them.
-A marvelous proposal has my dear just done.- Dusekkar nodded, the approval making Taph's head wing's flutter.
-Did I miss something?- Brighteyes walked in, sitting on an empty chair next to Shedletsky's.
"Maybe we can also look for 1x1x1x1 more effectively." Taph signed, making sure to let Brighteyes see clearly.
-That's true. How has the investigation been going, Shed?- Builderman asked, his tone casual yet a lingering accusation under it.
Though the couple remained married and on apparent good terms, since "the incident", as Shedletsky called it, there had always been an unspoken tension everyone was aware of yet no one brought up, they just learned to deal with it, as well as some underlying resentment all of them held towards Shedletsky.
Shedletsky's face lit up in embarrassment, he didn't like getting the incident pointed out to him. –I.. Uh.. There still has been no relevant intel.-- He replied, trying to hide his nervousness from his wife.
Brighteyes immediately turned to look at her husband. –Then let's go with Taph's idea.-- She announced enthusiastically to the rest of the table.
–How about Dusekkar, Doombringer and me go ask Elliot about his change of mind while you go asking around for 1x?-- Builderman added.
The rest of the table nodded in agreement, Shedletsky looking a bit reluctant but agreeing anyway. He didn't know if it was fear of never finding his son again and having to face the consequences, or facing the consequences of finding him that scared him the most, but he'd have to face one outcome or the other at some point.
At 007n7's house, things had taken a turn for the better overnight. The brothers woke up to talking in the kitchen, something that was unusual as bluudud, pr3ttyprinc3ss and 118o8 hadn’t stayed the night after dropping them off from the restaurant. They quietly sneaked downstairs, taking a look from between the staircase railing, both of them gasping when they saw the scene.
007n7 and Elliot were both in the kitchen, cooking and laughing, big smiles painted on their faces. Hearing the gasps they turned around to see the kids eavesdropping.
–Breakfast is ready!-- Elliot announced, taking two plates to the table and 007n7 following behind with the other two.
The two kids walked downstairs, both of them with the biggest smiles on their faces. They sat down in front of the plates Elliot had placed for them and waited for the two men to sit to start eating.
–Pancakes!!! I missed them-- c00lkidd exclaimed while taking a mouthful of food, his tail rapidly wagging.
–Thank you, Mr. Elliot.- 1x said politely, taking small bites in contrast to the younger one.
–Nothing to thank me for.- He replied. –I owe both of you an apology for how I treated you the other day at the pizzeria. Specially c00lkidd.- There was a noticeable regret in his voice.
The newfound family kept on eating their food, all four of them feeling a happiness they hadn’t in a long time. Nothing would separate them now.
Suddenly, their moment of peace was interrupted by the ringtone in Elliot’s phone, the caller ID read `Builderman`, to which he excused himself off the table to answer his uncle’s call.
–Hello?- He answered from the living room, looking back at 07 who gave him a worryful glance.
–Hey kid, will you be at work today?- Builderman replied from the other line, putting the phone on speaker as the other admins listened eagerly.
Elliot turned back to 07, frustration noticeable in his eyes as he had just asked for a free day minutes before the kids woke up. But he wouldn’t let Builderman know this quickly about his rebuilt relationship. At least not yet and even less with the risk of 1x1x1x1 being seen.
–Oh.. Y-yeah!! I’ll be there.- He replied, trying to sound as casual as possible.
–We’ll see you there later, then!- Builderman answered before hanging up.
The words of his uncle sent a chill down Elliot’s spine. We’ll. That could only mean one thing and it wasn’t good for them.
–Seven, can we talk in private?- Elliot approached back to the table, the distress was evident on his face and all three picked up immediately that something wasn’t right.
007n7 signaled the kids to go to their room, to which they followed with confused faces. Once the kids were gone he finally asked.
–What 's wrong? Is everything alright?- He placed a hand over Elliot’s shoulder, immediately picking up on the other man’s quickened up heartbeat.
–The admins are coming over.- Elliot blurted out plain and quickly, avoiding eye contact with 07.
Just that was enough to drain the blood from 07’s face, he felt his chest tighten up as his heartbeat sped up, nearly stumbling backwards. –W-what?- That was the only thing he was able to mutter out. The thought of being sent to the banlands and worse, losing 1x, losing his child.
–They probably figured something was up when I told my manager about the unblacklisting..- Elliot sighed, running a hand through his hair, using his other arm to wrap it around 07 to comfort him.
–I’ll stay on the pizzeria and try to avoid any questions about 1x, we’ll have to move my rest day to another time.- He dropped himself on the chair next to 07, who almost automatically laid his head on Elliot’s shoulder for comfort and a closeness he had long awaited for.
The admins arrived at the pizzeria, where Elliot was already waiting for them on the counter, having made sure all the tables were spotless and presentable for the higher-ups of the city.
His eyes widened in confusion when he only saw three out of the group of six, but tried to play it off as casual. He’d ask about that later.
–Hello!, It’s such a pleasure for the Builder Brother’s Pizzeria to get a visit like yours.- Elliot greeted the trio enthusiastically, guiding them to a table the rest of the workers had specially put up.
–No need for formalities, kid. We’re family.- Builderman gave his nephew a pat on his back before sitting. Elliot nodded in acknowledgement before taking out his notepad.
–Can we offer you a drink?- He asked, looking at the three of them.
–Just.. sparkling water for the three?- Builderman looked at his comrades for approval, to which Doombringer and Dusekkar nodded.
–Will be here shortly!- Elliot walked off into the kitchen, leaving the admins alone.
–So.. where shall we start?- Shedletsky glanced at his wife and son. The three of them stood on the place where he had last seen 1x, the playground where c00lkidd met him.
–Did you see if he talked with someone? Maybe we could get a clearer idea to where to start from there.- Brighteyes suggested, urging her husband to remember something.
–There were a couple other families, but I can’t quite remember exactly..- Shed tried his best to put on a serious look, and failed miserably.
Taph and Brighteyes let out an exasperated sigh. –Can you please take this seriously?- She spoke, irritation evident in her voice.
–Fine, fine.. I think he was near a kid with some kind of red demon tail of sorts.. I couldn’t see much.- He shrugged it off, feeling like he had helped enough with that.
–Thank God. That was actually useful.- Brighteyes sighed.
–You’re welcome, hehehe.- Shed giggled. He took every opportunity someone said something like that to make jokes about it, making the best out of his position as the God of the Heights.
–Remind me why I’m married to you again..- Brighteyes started walking, Taph following behind her while Shedletsky faked being offended.
007n7 sat on the couch, his thoughts still spiraling as he looked into the ceiling, trying to think about all the possible scenarios when suddenly a little voice, barely above a whisper, brought him back to reality.
–D-dad..?- The voice spoke.
–Kidd? What’s w..- 07 turned his gaze at the place where the sound came from, expecting it to be c00lkidd. –..rong..- His eyes widened in shock seeing that the voice came not from c00lkidd but from 1x.
–1x? Is everything alright?- He spoke, clearly worried as he saw the teen approach the couch and sit next to him.
1x nodded, then he stayed quiet, as if trying to say something.
–If something is on your mind I can help you with it.- 07 placed his hand on 1x’s hair, running his fingers through his long, white hair in a caring motion.
–Is it okay if I call you dad..?- The kid asked nervously, a clear fear of rejection in his voice. While yes, Telamon was his father, he was never a dad, he was present but never fully involved. Constant clashes and fights, even when training, every hit with the wooden sword that Telamon used to not harm the kid felt hateful. His once fully white hair and blue eyes were tainted into his roots fading to black and his eyes switching to a glowing red.
07’s eyes widened, a warmth in his chest built up, easing up all the anxiousness he had been feeling since Elliot’s call. –Of course you can.- He pulled 1x into an embrace, feeling the kid's breath turn back into a normal rhythm.
–You've been a part of the family ever since that day we brought you home. The happiness you have given us to both c00lkidd and me is something I'll always be thankful for.– 07 spoke softly, his embrace giving a reassuring comfort to 1x.
Before he even knew it, 1x started to feel a stream of tears running down his cheeks, he returned the hug and nuzzled his face into 007n7’s shoulder, staining the man’s blue polo shirt with tears. 07 didn't mind this and just held his kid closer.
–You're safe with us. You will always be loved and accepted here.– His words seemed to heal something inside 1x that he didn't realize was broken, something he had longed for all his life.
They stayed like that for a while until 1x pulled away from the hug, wiping his tears but smiling at 07.
–I wanted to talk to you about something..– 07 started off. –You deserve to know this as you're old enough to make your own decisions.– His voice shifted to a more serious tone, but remaining calm and gentle.
–Your father, Telamon, and the rest of the admins are coming to this side of the city today. I just wanted to let you know that if you want to go with them, feel free to let us know. I'll tell Elliot to arrange a meeting place where we’ll drop you off, but you'll always have a home here and can come visit whenever.– The man placed his hand over 1x’s shoulder, squeezing it softly.
–No! I.. I want to stay with you.– He blurted out, While yes, he missed Brighteyes and Taph, this life had all that he needed. No unrealistic expectations, freedom to do and say whatever he wanted and, most importantly, not one but two dads who gave him the love he had wished for his entire life.
The kid almost threw himself into 007n7, making the man lose his balance a bit, but catching 1x and pulling him into an embrace once again.
–Thank you, son.–
–Here are your drinks!– Elliot announced, putting a glass in front of each man, the three discussing the menu. –Are you ready to order yet?– He took out his notepad and glanced eagerly at the men.
–It'll be.. a pepperoni pizza to eat here and.. two meat pizzas for takeout.– Builderman responded.
–Please add extra chicken to the meat pizzas!– Doombringer interrupted.
Elliot finished up writing down the order, the chicken comment sparking up the perfect opportunity to ask his question.
–Talking about chicken.. Why did Telamon and his family decide not to come?–
The admins looked uncomfortably at each other, before Builderman sighed and spoke up.
–I'm sure you heard what happened with 1x1x1x1..– The oldest man's voice dropped to barely above a whisper.
–A mission for finding the hatchling has the family set out on.– Dusekkar added, shaking his head a little.
Elliot almost gasped. If they found out 007n7 had the kid, the consequences would be awful for all four of them.
–O-oh!! I see now..– He tried to speak as normally as he could, nodding in acknowledgment.
–My condolences to the family..– He spoke, before quickly setting out to the kitchen, letting out a breath he didn't realize he was holding in.
–A kid with a red demon tail.. where could we ask for someone like that?– Brighteyes muttered to herself.
–I’ve heard a description like that before.. maybe I could ask Builderman?– Shedletsky responded.
“It’ll delay us by some significant amount of time.” Taph signed.
–You're right, but it could also lead us closer.– The God answered his son, searching for his wife’s approval.
–Let’s ask around in the nearby streets, if nothing works then we’ll go with your plan.– She replied to her husband.
Elliot approached the admin’s table with their order, putting the pizza in the center of it.
–Enjoy!– He said enthusiastically, using his now common customer service voice.
–We wanted to ask you something.– Builderman pointed to an empty chair, to which Elliot sat down on it.
–While looking through the city’s archives this morning, we saw that the blacklisted customers 007n7 and c00lkidd had been allowed back in, as informed by the manager..– The oldest man narrated, watching his nephew's expression, whose eyes instantly widened.
–Did you get back together with him?– Doombringer interrupted, gaining a side-eye from Dusekkar.
Elliot’s face flushed, a soft red painting his cheeks.
–W-what? Of course not! We.. we’ve just started talking again. He apologized for the incident and cleared stuff up.– It wasn't a complete lie, 07 did apologize, but they also did get back together, but Elliot wouldn't admit that to them just yet.
–Your trust is something deeply cherished within our community.– Dusekkar reassured him, neither of them believing a word the blonde man spoke.
–I’m telling the truth!– Elliot entered a defensive demeanor.
Builderman sighed, painting off the defensiveness as a way to show it was still a sensitive topic for him.
–It’s alright, kid. You'll always have our trust.– He nodded, to which Elliot stood up.
–If you need anything else just call the counter.– He spoke in a colder tone than usual. He couldn't deny that he felt a little betrayed, they really only came there to ask about his love life?
The sun started to set, as soon as the admins left Elliot head straight home, or 007n7’s home, he opened the door to see all three of them sitting on the couch and watching TV, a good bunch of popcorn and candies in the small glass table in front of them.
They all three looked up as soon as they heard the door unlock, pausing the movie they were watching, their faces lighting up.
Elliot dropped his stuff next to the door and walked to the couch, letting himself fall down next to 007n7.
–How did the visit go?– He asked, feeling the shift in weight as Elliot snuggled up next to him.
–They just came here to ask if we got back together.– The blonde man let out an exhausted sigh, rubbing the bridge of his nose. –I won’t tell them just yet, even less knowing that Telamon was in the city.–
–Take your time, it'll be fine.– 07 reassured.
The family spent the rest of the night watching movies and eating snacks until all four fell asleep on the couch. 1x had c00lkidd wrapped around in his wings while 007n7 had one arm around Elliot and the other around his kids.
He couldn't have ever asked for something better.
Meanwhile, the admins met back on the HQ, specifically on Builderman’s office as they discussed the unfruitful finds of the day.
–Hey, at least we got a day out.– Doombringer announced, trying to ease the gloomy ambience.
–Wait, we wanted to ask you something.– Brighteyes spoke, catching the attention of everyone else.
–Are there records of a ‘kid with a red demon tail’ in the city’s library?– She asked, following the description her husband had given earlier.
–I'm not sure..– Builderman started typing on his computer, feeling the other 5 watching expectantly.
A single archive came up on the screen “Builder Brother’s Pizzeria catches fire. 1 Injured, Zero dead.”
He clicked on the document, a pit forming on his stomach.
“The injured is a minor, described as a kid between the ages of 8 and 10, horns and a red demon tail. He was able to make it out of the fire alive due to one of the bystanders having experience with a gui.”
The group analyzed the document, reading it once, twice and thrice until there was no doubt. Builderman zoomed in the picture of the article.
–Shed, are you 100% sure this is the kid?– This was an accusation they couldn't take lightly due to the nature of the involved.
The god nodded, everyone was looking at him, waiting for an answer.
–It can't be..– He muttered, taking a step back and running a hand through his hair. Brighteyes kept on re-reading the article, unable to grasp how, Taph just looked worriedly at his parents.
–That hacker..– He whispered. –That filthy hacker has my son?!?– His voice raised, the hatred within him boiling deep.
–After everything he's already done to the city.. still decides to keep MY son!?!– Telamon paced quickly around the office, stopping right before the door.
–Prepare the banhammers, we're finally putting an end to that nuisance tomorrow.– Everyone was quick to take on the change of demeanor, the ambience felt heavier and they watched the perpetually closed eyes in Telamon’s head wings open.
He left the room, Brighteyes following soon behind, leaving the rest in an uncomfortable silence with the document still open in Builderman’s computer.
1x woke up to a stinging in his chest. He looked down at his hands, the tips of his fingers now tainted black. He looked over at c00lkidd when he noticed something off in his wings. His feathers. The bottom row of once light yellow was now pitch black.
He shrugged it off as tricks from the light. The kid closed his eyes again, wiggling to get into a comfortable position before falling asleep once more, a smile painted on his face from the warmth.
–I love you.– He mouthed sleepily, drifting off into the night.
Notes:
I may or may have not changed my mind midway through and decided to have more angst that originally planed.
Chapter 6: A God's Wrath
Summary:
The family prepares for a fun day out when they notice some changes on 1x1x1x1's appearance, surely nothing can go wrong, right?
(TW for mentions of panic attack and fainting)
Notes:
IM SORRY THIS TOOK SO LONG , had massive writer's block this past weeks but pushed through, nothing will stop the grind.
Enjoy this very fun and very happy chapter!!! :3c
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
1x woke up in their room, c00lkidd was still asleep and cuddled up next to him. I guess years of quickly typing in the gui and delivering pizzas all day everyday made strong arms. He blinked once, twice and the stinging in his chest from the night before was still there and had spread to his head, he could feel every pulse behind his eyes and on his temple.
The teen extended his wings to stretch himself, which seemed to ease the pain ever so slightly, this movement seemed to wake up c00lkidd, who looked up sleepily at his brother.
–Sorry.– 1x apologized, folding his wings back in.
He received no answer from c00lkidd, just a confused stare that didn't flinch.
–Do that again..– c00lkidd spoke in his barely awake voice.
–What? This?– 1x extended his wings again, to which the younger one shifted his gaze at them, then back at him, analyzing every inch of the older one’s body.
–What happened to your wings? and to your hands?– c00lkidd pointed at the features as he mentioned them.
1x looked at both of his pairs of wings and to his hands. The shift in colour that he had noticed the night before wasn't a trick of the light. It was real.
His eyes widened in confusion and fear, examining every part of his body.
–I.. I don't know..– He muttered.
–Let's go with dad.– c00lkidd slid off the bed and grabbed 1x’s wrist, pulling the older one.
The quick shift in position made 1x stumble, the pain in his head worsening and his vision going blurry for a few seconds.
They walked down the hallway and into 007n7’s room, c00lkidd knocking on the door. There was a quiet shuffling from the other side before the door opened, 07 looking down at them?
–Kids? what's wrong?– He asked, putting his glasses on.
–1x woke up looking weird..– The red one pointed at his brother.
–What do you me- Ooh my god.– 07 kneeled down to match 1x’s height, instantly noticing the shift in colour on his wings.
–..How does this happen?– He started examining every inch of the kid's wings, as well as noticing the shift in his hands' colour.
Shortly after, Elliot walked out of the room, instantly noticing the issue at hand. He looked surprised, yet not completely shocked as he had seen the shift in 1x’s appearance throughout the times he was invited to events in the HQ, though could never quite understand why.
–Do you feel anything else?– 07 asked the kid.
1x shook his head. Of course he wasn't going to admit that he was on the verge of passing out, he wasn't going to worry his family.
–Completely sure?– The man repeated, he had learned to not completely trust the first answer a kid gave him.
1x just responded with a nod, to which 007n7 wasn't completely satisfied but decided to trust him.
07 stood up, looked at Elliot and then back at the kids, this was all he ever needed.
–Well, better start getting ready, we're having our first family day out today.– He announced as he squeezed both of his kids’ shoulders.
C00lkidd’s face lit up, 1x forced a genuine smile through the headache that was growing in intensity.
The two men went downstairs to make breakfast, leaving the kids to shower and dress themselves.
–Can you believe that in just two months you became part of our family?– c00lkidd said excitedly, his tail wagging as he picked up some clothes from his drawer.
–Yeah.. It's amazing.– 1x replied, starting to become numb to the pain that just seemed to grow.
–I'm so so so so happy that I have a brother like you!– The youngest one practically threw himself to 1x, wrapping him in an almost suffocating hug.
–I'm happy you accepted me here.– 1x returned the hug, the sudden affection seemed to change the burning feeling in his chest to a comfortable warmth. A raging fire turned into a calming bonfire.
Both kids finished getting ready and walked downstairs, their breakfast starting to get served.
–Just in time!– Elliot put their plates down on the table, the kids sitting down in front of them.
–Thank you.. eh..– c00lkidd seemed to stay quiet to think for a second, which wasn't a very common occurrence. –Does this mean I can call you dad again?– He could barely contain the excitement in his voice as he spoke to Elliot.
He looked at 07, who just nodded and smiled at his boyfriend.
–Of course you can.– Elliot ruffled c00lkidd’s hair before looking at 1x. –You can too if you'd like.– His expression was softer, more sympathetic.
1x almost broke into tears just as the day before with 007n7, but he just breathed in and smiled brightly at the man.
–Thank you.– The pain seemed to disappear for a moment, just enough to let him eat breakfast with his family.
–1x, so you're completely sure you don't feel anything weird or different aside from.. well, the obvious?– 07 asked once again, not wanting to risk his kid suffering any emergency, specially with the amount of covering he had to use outside.
–Mhm!– He nodded, a little more confident this time.
Though, this confidence wouldn't last long, as the searing pain on his chest and head came back and stronger than before. It was more than pain, it was a raging hateful fire that burned from deep within him, yet, it wasn't his. This emotion didn't belong to him.
The sudden jolt of pain caused him to have a physical reaction, clutching at the sides of his head, sparking worry within the table. All three of them stood up.
–1x? Are you okay?–
–I should've known it was not a good sign..–
–What can we help you with?–
Throughout the commotion, the doorbell rang, followed by a series of frantic knocks.
Then quiet.
After a few second the knocking came back, quicker, almost desperate.
007n7 and Elliot looked at each other, then at 1x and back at the door. 118o8 wouldn't come unannounced, Elliot hadn't told anyone that he'd be staying at 07’s place.
Oh.
Oh no.
–I'll answer.– 07 put on a facade of security, walking towards the door.
His hand lingered over the keys, the knocking on the other side continuing. He took a deep breath and inserted the keys on the lock, unlocking the door.
He slowly opened the door, unconsciously holding his breath as the rays of light started seeping into the house.
When he finally opened it, there it was. What he had been dreading the past months.
Standing on his porch were the admins, THE Robloxia admins. Doombringer and Builderman holding the banhammers, Dusekkar holding his staff and a series of documents, and who was knocking?
The most feared man in the entire city.
Telamon.
007n7 went pale, his heartbeat starting to skyrocket.
–Oh..! It's such a pleasure to receive a visit of such important people, what is the occasion?– He asked, trying to sound as calm and normal as possible, which failed miserably.
Elliot, 1x and c00lkidd immediately looked outside, three different levels of fear, shock and confusion in their eyes.
1x immediately spotted him, Telamon. The pain had become unbearable at this point, and now his heart was racing, beating at impossible levels and his entire body was shaking. He couldn't breathe, he couldn't move, he couldn't look at anything else that wasn't him.
–You, user 007n7, have been prosecuted for charges that include improper use of gui, such as hacking and exploiting, as well as being behind the burning of the Builder Brother’s Pizzeria building.– Telamon started listing, the pure unfiltered hatred burning in his voice. –And has been accused of kidnapping the minor 1x1x1x1, who also is the son of an admin.–
07 fell speechless. He had no way of defending himself on that one.
–My son.– Telamon finished off, every letter was pronounced in a way that cut 07 deeper and sharper than any blade could ever have.
1x listened from the inside, his ragged breaths becoming more frantic, he was getting dizzy and everything felt as if it was spinning. He didn't want to go, he didn't want to leave his family, his true family.
Outside, Dusekkar stepped forward, handing Telamon a folder containing written evidence of all the charges, though he didn't need any for the last one. He had seen 1x since the moment 07 opened the door.
–..And therefore, will be sent to the banlands.– Telamon finished.
–..You can't do this, I have a son as well..– 07 tried to negotiate, to talk some sense into Telamon. –1x will return to you, he won't see us again if you wish, but please, I can't leave my son alone..– He felt his entire body get weak, his hands were trembling and his voice was cracking.
–You have done enough damage to our city in the last decades.– Telamon’s stance was immovable, an unshakable decision.
–We’ll move to another city, we won't ever set foot again in Robloxia but please..– A tear rolled down his cheek.
–This is an non negotiable penalty.– His voice was full of apathy.
Elliot ran towards the entrance, leaving a scared c00lkidd and 1x back inside. He didn't care about being seen with 07 anymore, he just wasn't going to let them leave c00lkidd to fend off on his own.
–Telamon, you can't do this, think of his kid.– He practically begged, which just seemed to harden his expression even more.
–Your familiar bonds play no part in this, we’ve taken your wishes into consideration too long, and it's been enough.– Telamon scoffed.
Elliot looked at Builderman, who moved his gaze away. Was it betrayal or shame in those eyes?
Inside the two kids remained, c00lkidd clinging onto 1x as if letting go meant that he'd disappear, the older one didn't have any strength to move and his brother’s touch seemed to be what was grounding him to reality.
–If there's no further discussion, I'll be taking what’s mine .– Telamon pushed through the couple, stepping inside the house.
Telamon pushed c00lkidd away with little care, not even bothering to look at him and grabbed 1x’s wrist. It wasn't full of care like 07’s embrace was, it was a rough grip, as if he was holding a stranger.
–You can't do this, please..– 1x spoke with the little energy he had left. He couldn't see or hear anything anymore, everything was fading.
And then, it all turned to black.
He woke up in a bed, a hand was gently stroking his hair. The bed was way too big to be c00lkidd’s race car bed, and the hand was too soft to be 007n7’s but too small to be Elliot’s, then, he felt feathers brush his arm.
1x opened his eyes, the light was blinding and his head was still spinning, he felt weak.
–You're finally awake.– It was.. Brighteyes?
She pulled the kid into a hug, being careful to not move him too roughly.
He returned the hug in an almost automatic motion, his eyes still not registering completely the room.
–You had us worried sick.– Brighteyes pulled him away just enough to look at 1x’s face, brushing a strand of hair out of the way.
His eyes adjusted to the room, there was no doubt now that he was in his house. His mon was the one holding him and sitting beside them was his older brother, Taph. The scar on his brother's face reminded him of c00lkidd’s, the tension in his chest coming back, not that angry heat from earlier, but a growing dread. The fact that c00lkidd was left alone made 1x feel sick, no matter what he did, there was no reason to leave him without a father. And while yes, Elliot wouldn't leave c00lkidd alone, 007n7 was a crucial part of their lives, of the three of them.
1x felt his throat tightening up again, his eyes starting to water.
Brighteyes noticed this, to which she closed the hug and Taph then covered both of them with his wings, making the embrace closer.
–It's okay now, baby. You're safe, you're home.– She comforted her son, but her words just seemed to unknowingly hurt him deeper.
He had been safe, he had been home, but his father broke that, broke the home of a happy family that fought deeply to be safe, that fought against all odds, just to be broken again.
In what used to be 007n7’s house, things were a lot quieter, Elliot and c00lkidd had spent the entirety of the day in a state of shock, none had cried yet, but they couldn't quite feel anything either, what would've been the laughter of two kids and some movie or series in the background was now replaced by a deafening and uncanny silence.
Night fell, both of them barely ate, just picking at the plate of leftovers from the previous day, stuff both men had cooked before everything broke, none of them uttering a word, refusing to acknowledge that what they had seen was reality and not some twisted nightmare.
That night, both of them slept in empty beds, on one side, the heat radiating of the dimly lit dinosaur lamp wasn't enough to make up for the coldness of the missing wings and heat from his brother that had cradled him for the past two months, the race car bed his dad had handcrafted wasn't big, but it felt gigantic. On the other side, that coldness he had sworn would never come back just a couple nights ago came crawling back. Elliot kept on blaming himself for how things turned out, maybe if he had overridden his fear and pride back when the incident happened, he could've prevented this.
A soft knocking on the door brought him out of his head, Elliot stood up and opened the door, half hoping to see 007n7 and 1x1x1x1 standing there. He was greeted by the sight of c00lkidd, who was holding a single feather.
–..Dad, I mean.. Mr. Elliot, may I sleep with you today..?– The kid’s voice was unusually quiet, a stark contrast to his usual cheerful personality.
Elliot looked down at him, feeling more sadness build up in his chest. How could someone be so heartless as to leave a kid without his father?
–..Of course, Kidd.– He forced out a smile, picking c00lkidd up and closing the room’s door.
They fell asleep cuddling closely to each other, seeking the familiar warmth they both had grown used to, a sense of stability despite everything, both hoping that maybe when they woke up, their family would be complete again.
Notes:
The story will be more 1x centered from now on! Ofc there will still be c00lkidd and Elliot focuses but I want to explore more Telamon's and 1x's dynamic. >:)
Chapter 7: Grief Through a Kid's Eyes
Summary:
It's been 24 hours since the incident, how are the affected holding on?
Notes:
I'm sorry for taking too long to update but got lowkey hit with the ao3 curse and my puppy got poisoned and i tore a ligament, sadge.
Been working on chap.8 simultaneously and i have most of the rest of the story planned out already so I'll try to finish this before my summer break is over :D
Enjoy!!!
Chapter Text
1x finally woke up, at least decently enough to not fall back asleep immediately. He shut his eyes tightly, trying to make sense of the time, had it been a day or a week already? The events from the last morning were fuzzy in his mind, hoping that it would all have been a nightmare and he'd soon feel c00lkidd tossing his drakobloxxer plushie onto him as he woke up.
That idea was soon cancelled as his mind started properly functioning, 1x opened his eyes and just as he feared there it was, his room. His room in his parent’s house in the HQ.
His eyes still felt swollen and tired from the last evening, the time where he wasn't sleeping had been spent crying or drowning in his thoughts, sadness, fear, guilt, hate. A dangerous combination.
Surely enough, as if they had been waiting for him, there was a knock in the door.
–Come in..– He grumbled, just barely audible.
Brighteyes opened the door slowly, she was holding a plate of something in her hands as she approached her son’s bed.
-How are you feeling?– She asked, sitting on the edge of the bed. –I brought you dried limes, your favourite. I thought maybe you were hungry.– Brighteyes left the plate on the counter by the bedside, 1x’s gaze following the movement.
–Thank you.– He forced out, the gesture wasn't unwelcome, but it felt.. weird.
–You don't have to thank me, baby.– Her voice was soft, she was clearly worried but didn't want to push much on the topic. –Taph will be staying here for a few weeks, he said that he wanted to spend more time with you.–
–Is he here?– 1x questioned, maybe talking with his brother would make them understand what he was feeling.
–He and your dad will be home in the evening, Builderman gave us half days off for a couple weeks to help you settle back in.– Brighteyes explained to him.
The thought of having to spend time alone with his father sent a brand new wave of dread all across his body. He wouldn't be able to bear that. Telamon wasn't even there the past evening when he woke up, this had all been his fault to start off, why should he care to build a relationship with that man?
1x’s tired smile faltered, all of his energy focused now on trying to seem “normal” enough to avoid having to explain to his mom why he’d rather die than be with his father, though it was something her and Taph had started noticing years back.
The first rifts in their relationship started when 1x was just a kid, he had barely gained consciousness over his life and one of the first things that he noticed was the clear favouritism Telamon had for Taph. It was things that ranged from pet names and nicknames —or the lack of them—, to straight up fights that escalated into more than usual family banter. And with this, the gradual changes in 1x’s appearance began, though no one in his house questioned it, and whenever he asked about it they would all change the topic or sum it up as normal changes while growing up. But, with these changes also came emotional ones, his irritability towards his father started getting worse with time, while also growing more.. apathetic? Or so the latter was until he started living with 007n7 and c00lkidd. That was when he started truly living again.
Until the same man who caused it suddenly grew worried after thirteen years of putting anything and everything above his needs and emotions.
–Oh, he's very.. considerate.– 1x mumbled out, the way Builderman didn't utter a word while seeing 07 and Elliot beg for another opportunity had forever tainted the view he had of that man through his entire life. The once illusion of an heroic man had crumbled completely.
–He’s always been a family oriented man.– Brighteyes added, though it felt as a mockery. “Family oriented man” yet had ignored the pleas of his nephew, ignored the cries of a father not wanting to leave his son alone.
–I'll let you rest now. I love you, baby.– Brighteyes kissed his forehead before leaving his room, 1x just smiled, relishing on the warmth of his mother.
Elliot had dropped off c00lkidd at 118o8’s house, he understood how difficult it was for her as now she had lost both of her siblings, leaving only their kids to keep their memory. She took a day off work as well as letting the kids stay home, wanting them to take in as healthy as possible the situation, Elliot hadn't run with the same luck as his manager called him in for an “emergency meeting”, which wasn't a good sign most of the time.
–Thank you for watching him, I know how especially hard it must be for you.– Elliot spoke sympathetically.
–Ah.. It specifically hurts knowing I didn't get to say goodbye to either of them, but it comforts me knowing that Seven had a better last hours than 226w6. And that he is still alive, somewhere.– 118o8’s voice was overflowing with sadness. –c00lkidd worries me the most, though. He lost both his brother and dad.– She glanced at the kids, the three of them were less lively than usual, it was clear there was something —or rather someone— missing.
–He has you, and the four of you have Mia and me.– Elliot reassured her, taking a step back from the door to start his way to work.
–One more thing.– 118o8 interrupted him. –Thank you for giving my brother another chance. I'm glad he found a man like you and you were the one he spent his last days with.– She smiled, it was full of gratitude but also hinting at a past event in 07’s life (maybe related to his turned cult-leader ex..?).
Elliot smiled, a tear threatening to escape his eyes. –It’s nothing. He became a perfect man with time, the living proof that improvement is possible.– He shook his head, mind flooding with memories of the over 10 years they spent together.
Elliot left, leaving the four of them in silence, a heavy, grieving silence that all of them accepted as comfortable.
–Honey, we’re home!– The dreaded familiar voice echoed through the house, taking 1x out of the peace he had struggled to find. A knock on his door finished the work of destroying his tranquility, the fear of who might be on the other side making his heartbeat skyrocket once again.
–Come in..– He grumbled, sighing as if bracing himself for impact.
Luckily it was just Taph, who immediately waved at his little brother, a smile being noticeable even with his hood on.
1x’s eyes lit up, at least as much as his depression allowed them to, and made space for Taph to lay down, to which the oldest immediately did, laying down and wrapping his wings around 1x, a tradition they had since 1x was a kid.
If there was something he enjoyed of the current moment was the silence. He didn't have to explain anything, to put on a smile and pretend that the last two months never happened, he could just hold onto his brother and cry, not because Taph wasn't worried, but because he knew him enough to know that 1x also needed space, needed time to process the change.
–You won't demolish his house, right..?– 1x asked, the fear evident in his voice, to which Taph just shook his head, reassuring his little brother and holding him closely, not harsh enough to hurt him but enough to let him know that everything would be alright.
–..Thank you.– He sighed out, letting air fully reach his lungs.
The half-open door barged open, the crash against the wall being a stark contrast to the comfortable silence.
–John.. let the kids rest.– Brighteyes laughed it off, yet Taph could feel his brother tensing up.
–Can't I come see my kids now?– Shedletsky announced, his lighthearted voice echoed in 1x’s thoughts as he remembered the day before, how with that same voice Telamon had broken a family.
Taph was the first to pull away from the hug, sitting on the edge of the bed to look at his parents, 1x sat behind him, not wanting to look in his father's direction.
–I'll be back at night, love you.– She approached both of her sons and hugged them before exiting the room and the house shortly after.
The silence that remained was awkward, Shedletsky stood in the door while both brothers sat on the bed. Should he address the elephant in the room?
He carefully approached the foot of the bed, sitting as closely to the edge as he could. –So, X!– No warm nicknames, as always. –How have you been feeling?– He asked, forcing eye contact with 1x.
–Hm.– 1x just scoffed, was his father this clueless or just playing dumb?
Shedletsky sighed in frustration, breaking the chill father act. –Not going to talk to me?–
1x’s frown deepened at every word his father spoke, he had witnessed him sending a man to god-knows-where and he really expected 1x to act as if it was just a regular sunday?
Every thought started slowly bringing back the previous day’s burning on his chest, yet this time the emotion did belong to him, the hatred belonged to him and was focused on Telamon —or Shedletsky or whatever he wanted to be—.
–..Why?– The kid muttered, a thought spoken out loud, didn't plan for his father to hear but it happened.
–What?– Whether it was shock or anger in his voice was extremely hard to tell but his eyes never lied. That unmistakable red glisten in Telamon’s eyes whenever something angered him appeared. And as much as it hurt him to admit, he had his father's eyes.
Taph quickly noticed this and panicked. ‘ Don't be too harsh on him.’ He signed towards their dad. Though he had never gotten physical with 1x —aside from the sparring that sometimes went too far—, it was not the time for a screaming match considering 1x’s mental state.
Shedletsky sighed and stood up, walking towards the door. –Come out in 10 for lunch.– And left without waiting for a response.
1x finally let out the breath he was holding and let himself fall onto Taph’s shoulder.
‘ Thank you.’ 1x signed, too tired to speak.
‘ It's nothing.’ Taph responded, wrapping one of his wings around the youngest one.
The ten minutes passed with them just sitting in silence, Taph helping 1x cool down after what had just happened. The way Telamon viewed him as the “black sheep” of the family was no secret, no matter how much he tried playing it off.
Both brothers stood up, Taph using himself as a support for 1x. He hadn't left his room since the day before, he felt weak. As they stepped outside, the natural sunlight bleeding in through the windows felt as if his eyes burned, moving his face away to not take in as much light. They sat down at the table, both plates already waiting for them on their respective chairs, Shedletsky approached the table with his and waited until both sat down to start eating.
The ambience felt heavy, almost palpable, but neither of them wanted to address it, the tension was something they had grown accustomed to whenever 1x and Telamon were in the same place.
–Want to go take a walk around the Heights tomorrow?– Shedletsky finally broke the silence, his voice as casual as always.
Taph and 1x shared a glance, it wasn't clear who he was talking to.
–Me..?– 1x asked back, testing the waters of the conversation.
–I mean, unless Taph finally decided to give sword fighting a try..– Shed’s voice was dripping with sarcasm, which only deepened 1x’s frown. –So, yes or no?– He scoffed, only giving a side glance to the youngest kid.
–..I’ll think about it.– The kid finished the conversation before taking a forced bite out of his food, hiding a gagging reaction afterwards, caused by the depression induced nausea.
Nightfall dawned upon Robloxia, Elliot picked c00lkidd up from 118o8’s and drove straight to what used to be 007n7’s house. He knew they couldn't stay there forever but as long as the house was inhabited it wouldn't get demolished.
The insides seemed frozen in time, 07’s coat was draped over the couch, two cardboard swords rested over a worn down toy box painted with drakobloxxers and dinosaurs in red, plus a small bird painted in vibrant green right in the middle, the paint looked not even 2 weeks old.
The two of them ate dinner in silence again, Elliot had gotten a temporary demotion due to HR not wanting someone so closely related to the most recent ban case as the mascot of the restaurant until the news died down. Who even decided those things had to be public?
The emptiness was something they probably wouldn't ever get used to, the fact that it all had been real was slowly dawning upon them, causing a couple sniffles coming from c00lkidd to be the only sound coming from them, accompanying the lone hum of the refrigerator.
As the two of them got ready for bed, Elliot noticed c00lkidd making some movements with his hand as his eyes watered, the kid sat on the edge of the bed and held his plushie with his free hand, plushie which now had a lone white feather glued onto it.
–Hey, buddy. What are you doing?– Elliot sat next to him, trying to cheer c00lkidd up even a little.
–I'm practicing.– He mumbled between a choked cry, his voice cracking.
–What are you practicing.– The man grew curious, it was something he had never seen him do.
–How to say I love you in sign language.– c00lkidd finally lifted up his face to meet Elliot’s.
–That's great, kidd! Where did you learn that?–
–1x taught me it so I could say it to my dad, but I never got the chance to.– His voice died down to a whisper with the last half of the sentence. –I don't want to forget so I can show him it when he comes back!–
Elliot immediately felt a knot form in his throat, he wasn't coming back. Neither of them, but he wouldn't crush the kid’s dreams like that.
–I'm sure he knows how much you love him.– He ruffled c00lkidd’s hair, swallowing as hard as he could. –Now, let's go to sleep, shall we?–
–Can I stay with you again..?– The kid still felt a little shy asking that, and god forbid his cousins found out, he’d never hear the end of the mockery.
–Of course, c’mere.– Elliot picked c00lkidd up, walking towards the main bedroom, leaving the kid down on what used to be 07’s side.
–Goodnight, Kidd.–
–Goodnight Mr. Ell- ..dad.– He snuggled up to Elliot as he would have with 07, clutching the plushie tightly as the feather in his plushie brushed against his face.
Nothing would go back to how it was, nothing was perfect anymore, but they had each other, at least they did.
Chapter 8: Sugarcoated Lies
Summary:
Telamon wakes up and decides to be a decent father (not clickbait).
Notes:
finished this at 12 am on a school night (one of the only perks of evening school ig.), enjoy and cherish this chapter as this is me kissing the incoming brick. :3c
Chapter Text
The family gathered in the dining room, c00lkidd and 1x sat down on the table chatting about some series they had been watching while Elliot and 007n7 finished breakfast, play fighting over who was going to do the dishes afterwards. 07 approached them with their respective plates, pancakes and bacon placed over them, maple syrup making a happy face over the bread.
1x looked up to meet 07’s eyes when the room shifted. Behind him was what seemed like an old concrete cell, 07’s ankles and wrists wore sturdy metal chains that connected to the floor, his glasses dusty and heavy eyebags under his puffy tired eyes.
1x looked to where c00lkidd was, to now find him clinging onto Elliot, tears streaming down his face. He felt a pit forming in his stomach when he suddenly felt a hand on his shoulder, the touch was heavy and foreign.
He turned around just to see the admins, his heartbeat was rising and his breath came out in shallow gasps, air never reaching his lungs.
–This is all your fault.– Telamon spoke with an uncanny calmness, yet there it was, the red glisten in his eyes under the shadow of his hood.
And just like that, 1x woke up. The first rays of sun were starting to show, yet everything was still in complete silence.
His pulse was still high and his entire body was drenched in a cold sweat.
Amazing. He was barely able to sleep and when he finally managed to, it was a nightmare. What a fucking joke his life was.
1x started wondering, had it really been his fault that it all happened? No, it couldn't be, Telamon was the one who abandoned him in the park, but, what if he had refused to go that evening? What if he decided to not speak to c00lkidd or what if he decided to go back when 07 gave him the option? They would still be together, without him, c00lkidd, 007n7 and Elliot would be the family they had been in the past, happier and together.
But he just had to let his selfishness get the better of him. And he hated himself for it.
A couple hours passed, just staring at the ceiling and thinking about the countless could'ves and should’ves. He felt numb to every emotion but that recurring burning feeling in his chest. If there was a single thing he hated more than he hated himself, it was his father, but just thinking about it made his head hurt, everything hurt.
Brighteyes knocked at the door before barely opening it, peeking in to see 1x already awake before walking in.
–Good morning, sweetheart.– She spoke softly, sitting next to her son and running a hand through his hair. –How do you feel?–
She only received a tired grunt in response, yet it was more telling than words. Brighteyes let out a sad sigh before pulling her son into a hug, a soft and comforting embrace.
–You have us, baby. It'll all be alright.– She whispered, yet for 1x it was just a lie covered in sugar, a lie he oh so desperately wanted to believe, that it all would be fine some day.
–I'll bring you breakfast in a while, sounds good?– She moved away, meeting her son’s eyes that now had a glossy look to them.
He nodded and then she walked out of the room, the gentle click of the door echoing between the walls.
Mornings with his mom were calm and quiet, she'd come check up on him every 30 or so minutes, bringing him snacks and water, little acts that would help with the stabilization process. Both physically and mentally.
Something that kept on catching him off guard was a painful and constant stinging in his head, it wasn't migraine induced like the times it got worse, but as if something was starting to press onto his scalp from beneath, an almost identical sensation was on his lower back on certain laying or sitting positions. No matter how much painkillers he was given, nothing really made it go away, it had been a little less than a day and he was absolutely fed up with it, just as how he was whenever he noticed every other feather he shed was replaced by a black one. The once pure white wings forever tainted by deep black stains.
C00lkidd seemed to be the newest hot-topic in school, by both teachers and students alike. Elliot had complained last night about banland reports being public records but he never imagined it would affect him directly like this.
Mostly older kids and teachers started looking at him with pity, the cruelest ones opting for mockery and heartless remarks whenever he passed by.
Pr3ttypriinc3ss and bluudud were affected as well, their friends talking about the “banned father of their weird cousin.” C00lkidd was never very popular, he was an extremely outgoing kid, which would've been amazing in most cases if it wasn't for the parents stirring fear about his dad, which just turned the kid into the usual outcasted “weird” one, stuff that only got worse after the pizzeria incident, when the jokes about his scars began.
If he had a dime for every cruel passing joke from an older classmate asking about the banhammers, admins or assuming he'd end up banned too, he could probably take his cousins for ice cream the entire week.
He was tired of being the outcast while bluudud and pr3ttypriinc3ss actually had friends, he knew 1x would've understood him, he knew 1x would’ve laughed at every stupid comment he made. 1x was his best friend, his brother, the only older kid who had never made fun of him, the first one to tell him he loved him, and oh, how he missed him.
A quiet knock followed by his mom entering the room, one of Brighteyes periodic checkups.
–Need anything, sweetheart?– She sat next to 1x, who was doodling something in an old sketchbook. He had seen c00lkidd draw to express himself several times so he wanted to try it out, keeping a piece of him.
–I'm fine right now, thank you, mom.– He replied, quickly closing the notebook.
She nodded before pausing for a moment, as if trying to look for words to say something difficult.
–So.. your dad told me you two will go to The Heights today, right?–
Right, the thing Shedletsky had told him the day before, since when saying you'll think about it was agreeing?
–I.. mm..– He panicked for a second, saying no was the safest option, but.. –Uh.. Yes..?– And there it was, a rushed answer that came out before he even realized it. And his mom, of course, looked as shocked as ever.
–Are you sure..?– She asked in an even softer voice than usual. –I mean, if you want to, I won't prohibit you to, but.. I know that your relationship with your father isn't exactly the best. I know this time is difficult for you, I know looking at your dad is hard, and most importantly, only you know what you lived these past two months.– Brighteyes placed a hand on her son's cheek, caressing his skin in a comforting gesture.
–Us as admins sometimes need to make decisions that.. don't have a pretty outcome, but I can promise you that it was never meant to hurt you.– There were no names, no clear indications but it was clear what she was talking about. It hurt knowing that in a single day all the people he cared about changed in front of his eyes.
His eyes darted across the room, trying to fixate his gaze on something to stop the tears that were threatening to come flowing out.
She pulled 1x into a close embrace, letting him rest his head on her shoulder. –I will always love and support you, and even if your dad doesn't show it, he does care.– Her voice was like silk, soft and warm. Another lie he so desperately wanted to believe.
The hug broke after a couple seconds that felt like hours in 1x’s mind, an eternal comfort that he missed, not only from Brighteyes but from his family.
–Well then, you better start preparing yourself, they probably won't take much longer to come home.– She stood up, giving him a last kiss on the forehead before heading out.
His mother's words eased ever so slightly all the pain, all the hate, replacing it for a weird sense of tranquility he hadn't felt in a while. He does care. Maybe he did care and maybe, one day he’d understand, or maybe he wouldn't and his father would be the death of him. But for now, a sugarcoated delusion was better than nothing.
Taph and Shedletsky arrived home, the older admin announcing his entrance as a triumph.
On her way out, Brighteyes peeked into 1x’s room, he had finally showered and gotten dressed after over two days and honestly? He did feel better than he had. The kid noticed his mom looking at him, to which she mouthed ‘I love you’ and smiled, that proud motherly smile that never failed to make him happy.
Shortly after she left, both Taph and Shedletsky entered his room, both their faces lit up with surprise at seeing his change of demeanor, his brother was proud, always noticeable from the way his head wings fluttered, his father, on the other hand seemed.. relieved?
–Great to see you accepted my little offer.– Shedletsky spoke, smug as always but maybe a hint of something else, the once freezing cold words were now different. Whether it was from melting or more water being left to freeze was unknown, but it helped.
–Mom convinced me..– A small smile was tugging at the corners of his mouth.
–Ah, how I love your mother.– Shed smiled back. –Come eat soon, we’ll have a busy evening.– He exited the room, leaving the brothers alone.
‘This is amazing'. Taph signed, kneeling down to match his brother’s height and squeezing him closely. ‘I'm proud of you’. He let the kid go to let him see the words clearly.
–Thank you.–
–We’ll be back at nightfall!– Shedletsky spoke as he walked out the door with 1x, they were the exact same words he had used the day he left him in that park over two months ago, but this time, the phrase didn't seem hollow.
The walk —Or flight in this case— to Telamon’s spot in The Heights was one 1x had memorized as the years went by, he had been there countless times but it never got less exciting. Seeing all the people sparring in the platforms beneath, the main arena reserved for the official tournaments in the center with the fire ring he had always wanted to see up close, a sight he could never get tired of.
This time, instead of stopping in the training ground his father had built for training him (or Taph originally but his plans had changed.), he kept walking, walking towards what was probably his favourite place in the entire zone.
The place where Telamon stored his seven swords.
They stopped right in front of the door, Shedletsky looking at it with pride. (Oh how he wished his father would look at him like that..)
-As you should know..– He started, shifting his eyes from the door to 1x. –As long as us, admins, keep our divinity, we’ll have immortal lifetimes but that means an eternity of working.– He turned away and walked towards the edge, sitting down on the stone floors to gaze down at the liveliness of his domain, signaling for 1x to sit down next to him, to which he followed shortly after.
–I've been working with Builderman for a long time now, and don't get me wrong, I love my job! But, at some point, both your mother and I will have to step down from this whole divinity deal, leaving our places vacant.– Shedletsky looked expectant as he met eyes with his kid, who just seemed confused.
–What I mean by all of this is that when the time comes, I want you to be the one to take mine and your mom’s place.–
The realization dawned upon 1x, filling him with both excitement and fear but also a spark of hope. Maybe if he finally had power his words and emotions would be taken into consideration, maybe he could get him back.
–You're still too young and have a long way to go, but when the time comes, I want you to be ready.– He placed a hand on the kid’s shoulder, this time the hold felt more familiar and less harsh, making 1x flinch at the uncommon sensation coming from his father. –Which brings me to the reason I brought you here today.– He stood up and walked back towards the small yet fancy cabin where his swords were stored.
–Originally, I planned to give one to your brother and another one to you, but as Taph is more into explosives than swords, why not give both to you?– Shed explained while reaching into his pocket for the key to the cabin.
1x’s face lit up in pure joy, one of his biggest dreams had always been to have one of those swords in his hands, and to get not one but two was something he couldn't believe.
–You don't need to choose today, just start thinking about it.– The god opened the door, he stood in the entrance as 1x analyzed each of the seven weapons. All of them were neatly taken care of, recently polished metal on each of them with spotless handles, they were amazing.
–The Darkheart and Venomshank!– The kid turned around as soon as he finished looking at the swords.
Shedletsky almost choked on his own breath. He had chosen the.. darkness swords??? The weapons born of pure malice???
–A-are you sure???– He asked his child, trying his best to keep the calm facade.
–Completely sure!!– 1x nodded excitedly, his eyes glistening with joy.
Shed stopped for a second, freezing on the spot as his eyes darted between 1x and the darkly coloured swords behind their respective glass windows before letting out a deep sigh.
–Alright. I trust they will be in good hands with you.– The admin nodded in approval. Those weapons were incredibly dangerous and powerful but at least he’d have some sort of watch over them, not because he thought his son would use them wrongly, but because it was a power that took too long to get used to.
–Now c’mon, we have to build back your strength, we're too far behind on the training.– Both of them exited the cabin as Shedletsky led the way towards the training area exclusive to his sons, 1x happily following behind.
–Ready now?– Shed tossed a light plastic rod onto 1x, they had never trained with real swords just yet as the kid still lacked some experience.
–Mhm!!– 1x caught it mid-air and instantly went into the position he remembered.
–Mmmm let 's see..– Shedletsky stood still, analyzing every single part of his son’s stance, before walking towards him. –Yeah no, we have a long way to go before going back to the progress we had before.– He smacked 1x’s forehead with his own plastic rod.
–Ow!– That seemingly insignificant action brought back for a second a spark of the tormenting pain that had bothered him for the past day, before disappearing just as quickly as it came. –Why now?– 1x whined.
–Look, it's good, but a god of sword fighting can't conform with ‘good’ when it needs to be perfect.– 1x always knew his father wanted him to be perfect, yet it seemed like a distant image, a dream rather than reality, but he'd try his hardest if it meant that his actual father could be proud of him some day.
–We’ll need to start training every day for the next couple months, eh.– Shedletsky gently squeezed his son’s shoulder, getting a defeated sigh from the kid.
The two of them spent the rest of the evening training, trial and error until the stars adorned the sky.
–Tired?– Shed tossed a water bottle to 1x, before both of them walked to the edge and say down to look into the now empty arena, the only light being the bright fire ring in the center.
–Mhm..– 1x dragged himself next to his father, chugging down the water as fast as his body could.
They stayed in that carefully crafted comfortable silence for a couple seconds, the only sound being the leaves rustling in the wind.
–Hey.– The admin started, gaining the attention of his kid. –You did great today.– Was it really fondness coming from Shedletsky’s voice? Was all of this even true? 1x didn't care if it wasn't, even if it was just a dream, he didn't want to wake up.
–..Thank you.– 1x’s voice was barely audible, yet inside he was exploding with happiness, fighting the knot threatening to form on his throat because of the unexpected action.
Maybe, just maybe, they weren't lies after all, maybe it would all be okay some day.
Chapter 9: Wings of Victory
Summary:
6 months have passed since 1x went back to living with his parents on the HQ, and today is finally the day one of his biggest dreams come true.
(TW for mentions of blood, fainting and some body horror)
Notes:
HELLO!!! I had exams so sorry for the extremely late update qwp
I also saw some people were confused with the difference between Telamon and Shedletsky so I'll leave a small explanation as it'll be important for this chapter!!!
While yes, both of them are the same person, they are completely different personalities (think of it as DID, not explicitly labeled as that because I'm not fully informed about that condition but it's the most similar example i can use), as mentioned in previous chapters, Telamon is the 'work' personality, serious, collected, while Shedletsky is the family one, funny, easy going, all that. Telamon is 'triggered' into taking control outside of work by external factors like big negative emotions (anger/hate :3c) and is noticed by the rest of the characters due to the 'red glisten in his eyes' (also mentioned in previous chapters), you can see the instance of Shed becoming Telamon in instances like chap. 5 (iirc) when they're talking about 07 having 1x and it's mentioned that 'the eyes on the head wings open', the changes between them will usually be stated by italics, the 'red glisten' or just changing from saying Shedletsky to saying Telamon. :)
Having said this, enjoy!!!
(See the end of the chapter for more notes.)
Chapter Text
The next 6 months went by in a blur, 1x had been doing better, getting used again to life with his biological family, their parents had returned to their normal schedules and Taph went back to living with Dussekar, everything was ‘fine’.
Or that was what everyone else thought.
While there was no undeniability that he was doing way better than the previous half year, things would never go back to normal.
His days were mostly spent in his house and restarting the homeschool program, though looking at Builderman was still difficult for him. When he wasn't in class, he was either drawing or using the mobile phone his parents finally decided to give him shortly after they went back to work. During the late evenings he trained until nightfall with Shedletsky on the heights, they had leveled up from plastic rods, to wooden swords to linked swords, and his father had teased that the day where he’d be able to train with the Darkheart and Venomshank would come soon. 1x never once had beaten his father, but had come close some times, maybe if Shedletsky saw that he was fit he'd finally say he’s proud.
Yet, the only thing that remained the same was that awful pain, that though not as bad as before, it did spark up several times during the day, along with that burning in his chest.
And whenever that happened, he saw them, on the back of his mind, those three figures standing together. A man in a blue polo shirt, a burger hat, glasses, horns and tail due to corruption, a blonde man with a red pizzeria uniform, and between them, a little kid with a colorful cap, stubby horns, a tail that wagged incessantly and bright red scars covering his body.
There wasn't a single day where he didn't think about them, about what it would've been if he stayed with them, about how they were doing now, about wanting to scream and cry at Telamon and Builderman to let 07 out. He had to practice an immense amount of self-control when his parents first handed him the phone to not immediately call Builder Brother’s Pizzeria just to listen to Elliot again and ask about their life, to ask about c00lkidd, pr3ttypriinc3ss and bluudud, to ask for a delivery just to hug him one more time, he knew he couldn't.
It was a normal evening for 1x, finishing up his homework while he waited for instant noodles to be ready, listening to some of his favourite music while the pair of wings on his head flapped to the rhythm. Both pairs of wings, and all of his body to be fair, had stopped darkening a few months back, yet it never went back to normal, his hands and more than half of both sets of wings were stained black, he didn't really like it but Taph said it made him look badass so he believed it.
It probably wouldn't be much longer until Brighteyes and Shedletsky arrived, there hadn't been much sights of Telamon outside work the past months, at least not directed towards 1x, and when they were, Brighteyes tried her best to calm him out of it, which had been working pretty consistently, their family felt more united than ever now, but nothing compared to those two months he spent with them.
The microwave beep signaled his food was ready, he stood up and reached for it as well as some leftover lemonade Brighteyes had made the day before and walked back to the table, eating while he made small doodles in the corners of the pages, whether they were drakkobloxxers, swords, that fire ring on The Heights, there wasn't a single page left untouched.
Just as he thought, just a couple minutes had passed before his parents arrived, the jingle of keys outside being the clear indicator.
The door opened and his parents’ voices followed soon after.
–We're homeeeeee!!!– His father announced as triumphantly as always.
1x’s eyes instantly darted to his parents, a smile forming at the sight of them.
–How was your day, sweetie?– Brighteyes threw her bag on the couch before walking towards her son, giving him a tight hug.
–Good..– He muttered between squeezes and laughs.
–Well, you have around 40 minutes to be ready to go, I have big plans for today.– Shedletsky interrupted the moment, his voice expectant as he clearly awaited 1x’s reaction, the kid’s eyes lighting up.
He finished his food and quickly went to his room to get into training clothes before going back downstairs.
–Ready now?– Shed turned around, looking at his son with that usual smug expression, one which had started to become less cold in the past months.
–Mhm!– He nodded before starting to walk towards the door.
–We’ll be back at nightfall, take care, honey.– The older admin announced to his wife before both of them walked out the door.
The flight to The Heights had become a bonding time for both of them, they had started making progress and talking about more personal stuff rather than just daily life, like—the few— good memories they had together, and reminiscing about anecdotes with Brighteyes and Taph. Maybe soon he could ask his father about 007n7.
As they arrived, both went straight into the training arena, two linked swords already waiting for them.
–Today I have a very important lesson for you, young man.– Shed spoke as he saw 1x pick up one of the weapons.
–As I'm sure you know, for us hybrids, our wings are more than just transportation and looking pretty.– The admin started, extending all of his six pairs of wings (three head wings, three flying/waist.), an intimidating sight for any of Robloxia’s citizens. –They can also come in handy in combat.–
–..How?– 1x questioned, weren't their wings one of the most delicate extremities?
–I know how it sounds, but you can easily catch your enemy off-guard with them.– Shedletsky quickly answered his son’s questions, pacing calmly around the arena.
–Your wings wan serve as a very powerful bait, if
you cover yourself with them before an enemy strike, your opponent will surely want to land a hit, as soon as you feel the blade grazing the feathers, open them and impulse yourself forward and to the side, this will get you a free hit if done correctly.– He kneeled down and picked up the remaining sword, looking at the confusion in 1x’s face.
–Here, try to land a hit.– Shed stood in the center of the arena, completely covered by his wings. The kid charged right at him, but before he could even touch Shedletsky, he was already on the floor. –See now?–
1x’s eyes lit up with excitement, maybe this time he could actually beat his father..
–Let's try it out for yourself.– The God spoke before standing in fight position, 1x following right after.
They practiced for a long while until the kid finally started getting the hang of it, not quite landing a hit on Shedletsky but starting to catch him off-guard.
–Quick learner.–The admin praised with a nod. –But still too slow.– he finished, yet for 1x the small praise was more than enough to restore his energy.
–Though, I have a little surprise for you now..– He walked towards the back of the lone tree in the vicinity, picking up a few objects that were covered by a cloth and approaching his son with them.
–You’ve done quite a lot of progress, and now it's time for you to take the training a step further.– with one hand he uncovered the objects, revealing the Darkheart and Venomshank in Shdeletsky’s hands.
1x’s face transformed into a giant smile, the happiness and excitement undeniable. He’d finally achieve one of his biggest dreams.
–Wait, are you kidding???– The kid was dumbfounded by the sight in front of him.
–Of course not, grab them.– Shed’s mannerisms were surprisingly softer than usual, a small flick of his head to the side signaled 1x to grab both swords. Since the day he chose the swords, he had been training with two of them, preparing for the big moment, this exact one.
He carefully grabbed the swords by the handle, tensing up due to the sudden weight. They were heavier than he thought they were.
–Careful to not touch the blade themselves, a small cut by any of those can be deadly.– Shedletsky warned as he took the linked sword from the dust.
–It'll be unfair if I used the Illumina now, maybe some other time we'll get a formal sparring.– He joked before getting into position, not without feeling an unfamiliar weight clinging onto him.
–Thank you, dad.– 1x dropped the swords and hugged Shedletsky. How many times he had done so in his 13 years of life were easily counted with a single hand (and you'd still have leftover fingers). Shed returned the hug with a little awkwardness, his usual smug facade faltering for a second before accepting the embrace of his son.
–Now, now, no time to get all emotional, you have some trying out to do.– The admin joked to which the kid pulled away with a nod before picking up both weapons carefully.
The clash lasted a couple minutes, 1x seriously focusing and showing that all the training had paid off, Shedletsky actually took this one more seriously, the perfect mix between Telamon and Shed. The kid kept on trying the trick his father had shown him moments prior until, with a swift motion, he got it right and knocked off Shedletsky’s sword, pushing the God down with it.
1x stared at him, his entire being seemed to be glowing with happiness, dropping down the swords to walk up to his father.
–Dad! Dad! Did you see it?? I finally made it!!!, I finally won!!!– He tried to look for Shedletsky’s emotion but his eyes were completely shadowed by his hair and hood, he couldn't discern any emotion.
Carefully, he reached for the swords behind 1x which he had dropped shortly before the kid approached him.
He lifted his face, 1x instantly noticing the red glisten in his eyes.
Oh no.
Before he could react, an instant surge of pain coursed all through his body starting from his wings. He looked back and was met with a gruesome scene, the entirety of his left wing and half of the right one were sliced off, a puddle of blood flowing from out of his back.
Telamon quickly realized what he had done, that crimson spark melting away after the sudden rush of anger and leaving place to fear and guilt.
–Fuck, no, no, no, no.– The God dropped the sword he was holding, the Venomshank, and instantly took off his hood, wrapping it around his kid who was rapidly drifting off consciousness due to blood loss.
–Shit, I'm sorry X, I'm sorry.– Shedletsky picked up 1x’s limp form and flew as fast as he could back home.
1x awoke back home laying down on his bed, he was still too weak to move or open his eyes but he was able to make out muffled sobs coming from the foot of the bed.
–I think he's awake.– A deep voice spoke up, it wasn't unknown but he quite couldn't tell who it was.
He felt the weight shift from opposite sides before feeling a hand on his forehead. Was it his mother’s? Most likely. He tried to shift to his side but every move felt like a thousand stabs everywhere on his body.
–Don't move, don't move. It's fine, I'm here, we're here, baby.– Brighteyes muttered, stopping the kid from moving further.
–Little man's got strength even after all that.– That deep voice again.. Doombringer?
–He's gone through so much already..– Brighteyes spoke up again
–He is strong. I'm sure we’ll find a cure soon.– Doom finished with a sight, it sounded more like he was trying to convince himself rather than state a fact. –I'll leave you two alone.–
–Thank you, Doom.– She followed up before the door clicked shut.
–Please!!! There has to be something! Anything!– Shed pleaded, he sounded desperate. None of the other admins had ever heard him like that before.
–Tel- Shed.. there's no cure for any injury caused by one of the seven swords.– Builderman shook his head.
–Matt, I'm sure there must be a book in your library about it, maybe a spell? Please.– He turned to Dusekkar due to lack of feedback from the oldest admin.
–Doubtful it is that a solution will arise, a blessing alone is that the child’s heart beating continues to be.– Even with the pleading, he had to tell the truth. There was no point in sugarcoating the situation.
“But can you try at least?” Taph signed from across the room.
–..One can try.– The pumpkin-headed admin responded, not wanting to put down both his father-in-law and boyfriend’s feelings further.
1x had finally managed to open his eyes, the lights felt blinding and his entire body felt weak. Even blinking felt like a tremendous task.
–I'm so sorry baby..– Brighteyes spoke softly, not wanting to quite touch him as if in doing so he'd shatter.
He couldn't quite connect the dots on what had happened, one second he was training on The Heights and the other he was laying on his bed with his entire body aching.
Yet there it was again, that burning feeling in the depths of his chest, hate, a feeling that didn't belong to him fully but that he owned in some way, as well as the pressure on his head and lower back, coming back stronger than it ever had, he'd probably pass out from the pain at any given second.
–Has he woken up yet?– Shedletsky asked frantically as he saw Brighteyes exit 1x’s room.
–Drifting in and out of consciousness.– She replied, voice strained.
He dropped down on a chair while the rest of the admins stayed in silence, it was clear that everyone wanted to blame him, and in some twisted way it had been his fault, all of it. Ever since the first changes in 1x’s appearance Builderman, Dusekkar and him had gotten to the conclusion that it was due to Telamon’s hatred, every admin knew it but they couldn't do anything about it, Telamon would never really cease to exist. They hypothesized that once Telamon’s hatred was sealed in the “vessel”, he'd become solely the work personality, that serious and focused persona whenever he fought or did his job, but what would be of the kid in the meantime? Shedletsky always had mixed feelings towards 1x due to not wanting to corrupt him, thinking that if they never really interacted then it'd stop, but it just speeded up the process by causing the kid to resent him, mixing both of their hatred’s in one.
He hated himself but knowing that by doing so it'd just hurt his son more.
1x awoke again a couple hours later, his room was dark now, the entire house was. As he started to fully regain consciousness, he noticed a warm liquid sliding down his forehead and that the pain on his head and back had gone up tremendously, he guided his hand to the top of his head even through the pain moving his arms caused, and there he felt something unusual, was it..
Bone?
The feeling of something poking out of his scalp made him wake up completely. A spike-shaped bone on the top of his head.. horns???
The more the kid woke up, the more pain he felt and the more blood was running down his forehead, quickly staining his green sweater.
1x looked down to his torso where the blood was falling down, in closer inspection he noticed a dim glow coming from beneath it.
As he lifted up his sweater he noticed that most of his chest was covered in bandages but the places that weren't were turning some sort of neon green.
And that's when he remembered.
His father had cut off his wings with the Venomshank. And the venom, instead of killing him, was mixing into his bloodstream, liquifying his skin where the impact was and turning it into that bright green, his bones showing through the transparent flesh.
In a moment of fear he tried to stand up, just to immediately lose balance and drop down, falling face first into the ground and leaving a trail of blood behind him. When he looked back though, he also noticed something had also come out of him, a.. tail??
Skin coloured and demon-like, yet bones sprouting out of the connection with his back and blood seeping into the fabric of his clothes.
He tried to reach into the nightstand, looking for his phone and going into dial number, funny how instead of going to his family he instantly thought of someone else: Elliot.
3 a.m. the pizzeria must've been closed by then but he hoped that in some fantastic way the call would go through.
1x waited for seconds that felt like hours, the puddle of blood becoming bigger beneath him as his head started feeling heavy again, until it went to voicemail. Elliot’s voice in it was enough to give him even a slight sense of comfort through that living nightmare.
Soon enough he just accepted it and laid on the floor, that's how he'd die.
Alone.
And the world turned black again, that constant hate burning in his chest being the last reminder that he was no longer an angel.
Notes:
FUCK THIS TOOK A LONG TIME. but it's finally here so yay 🐁🎉
Elliot and ck will have their comebacks soon :3c
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