TADC One-Shots

by Obsessed_Fan

Summary:

Content I pulled from my Tumblr to present to a03. You can make requests here.

Chapter 1: Brainstorm

Another uneventful day in the digital world. Day after day of endless adventures, existential crises, and Jax being his charming self as ever, you often found yourself surprised whenever you at a moment of peace. You glanced around the colorful circus tent, nobody in sight and you couldn't hear anything. A rare smile stretched your lips as you turned around to head over to the couch, holding onto the arm of it as you settled against the cushions. This is what you've been hoping for. Peace and quiet. Nothing to bother you and no adventures to-

"WAKE UP!"

"GAUGH?!" You cried out as you flung yourself onto the ground. You looked up in time to see that insufferable pair of dentures sitting in the very spot you had been lounging in. A 'confused' expression crossed the ring leader as he hurriedly gestured for you to come near. 

"My dear! Get off of the floor and come sit down, I have something important to ask you." 

"...kay.." You grumbled as you rose to your feet and walked over to the other chair adjacent to the couch. "What is it?" 

"I…" Caine rubbed his thumbs in circles around each other. His beady pupils flew across his eyeballs as he kicked his feet that barely dangled off the edge of the couch. "Coulduseyourhelpwithcomingupwithanideaforanewadventureandithought-"

" Woah! Woah, woah, slow down." You raised a hand. "Repeat that but…a hundred times slower."

Caine perked up. "As I said, I need your help."

"With?" 

Caine stared into your eyes, neither blinking nor moving a pixel to suggest he was going to acknowledge your question. You squinted before slowly rising from the chair, your movements gradually quickened as you swirled around and began running away. You didn't take three steps before you were forcibly yanked back and landed on the couch right beside Caine. 

"Making a new adventure!"

"Wha-"

"That's right. I'm enlisting you to assist me by putting our heads together to make the most greatest, gargantuan, heart pumping, eye popping experience for the whole ensemble of assorted characters!"

"You…want my help?" You placed a hand on your chest. "Can't anybody else help you? Or…or you know…take another peek into the suggestion box?"

Caine laughed before appearing in front of you and gripping both sides of your head, shaking your cranium violently as he screamed, "WE DON'T NEED IT-! Now…back to the drawing board! Here is what I'm thinking…"

You drowned out the rest of his words as you calmed yourself and your eardrums. Something within your belly tightened as the tips of your limbs felt like static. Caine needing your help coming up with an adventure isn't something you'd ever believe would happen. Or so soon for that matter. Despite the sense of unease, a fuzzy feeling bloomed in your chest.

Being needed was nice, but you weren't sure you could provide the kind of ideas Caine wanted to inflict on the others. You brought your legs close to your chest and wrapped your arms around them, lowering your head to rest on your knees as you stared off into space. 

"...and when the smoke clears…a chimichanga stand will be there! Funny, right?" Caine looked over his shoulder, his next words halting as he examined your folded form. The pair of floating dentures titled to the side as he floated over to sit uncomfortably close to your right.

You didn't move away or flinch as he landed on the couch cushions, his upper set of teeth and gums formed a raised 'brow' as he leaned forward to meet your gaze.

Caine never had the chance to stare at you, or any of the other members, but now he was? He…liked it. His gaze flicked down from your unchanging pupils to your mouth. 

"Grhg?!" You snapped out of your daydream when a gloved finger shoved itself inside of your mouth.

Before you could push Caine's arm away, another finger entered and swiped around the tips of your teeth. If you had blood it'd surely rush to warm your cheeks as you shoved Caine's arm back and scrambled backwards on the couch to sit far away. 

"The h*ll was that?! You don't just shove your hand down my throat like that! What is wrong with you-!" 

"I got it…" Caine's voice cut through your rant. Holding out the hand that he put inside of your mouth. "I GOT IT!"

Caine disappeared within a blink of an eye and you were left there on the couch. 

"...b*stard." 

Chapter 2: Arts and Chats

You closed the door to your room and walked down the long corridor. Stepping into the main area of the circus you glanced around the open space until you spotted a familiar mask-wearing circus member. Oh, Gangle. You truly felt sorry for her at times, especially with that rabbit making things incredibly difficult for her for no reason other than to just…do it. You approached the humanoid made of ribbons and announced your presence with a simple greeting. 

"Oh?! Oh, it's you," Gangle sputtered as she covered the drawings scattered on the floor with her arms. It was futile because you could still see the drawings…but you didn't pay too much attention to them. "Is there something you need?"

"No, not really, just wanted to say hi." You replied. Your gaze fell on her mask and noticed her comedy mask wasn't on. Your eyelid twitches as you lower yourself onto the floor. A gentle exhale once you got settled across from Gangle, you opened your mouth to speak. "If you don't mind, may I join you? I'm kind of bored and got nothing else to do…but if you don't want me to that's fine I just didn't wanna intrude on anything you had going on and..i'm rambling aren't I? Sorry."

Gangle giggled behind a ribbon before sliding a pencil and blank piece of paper over to you. 

"I don't mind. Thank you for asking and well, joining me..I don't really have anyone else to draw with other than Zooble." 

"No worries and thanks!" You gestured to the paper and pencil before hovering the tool above the page. Gangle went back to her own sketches, occasionally stealing glances your way before stopping. You…haven't moved your pencil in a while, Gangle's pupil-less eyes switched between your concentrated face and the empty paper. 

"Uh...do you need help?" Gangle muttered. Your head shot up and met her concerned gaze, sheepishly smiling as you shook your head before ducking it back down to focus on trying to pick something—anything to draw. Gangle watched your internal battle and shook her head gently. A good fifteen minutes had passed and you started drawing circles. What you planned on making wasn't clear, but at least you got started on something. Yet, it seems like trusting your instincts failed you.

You dropped the pencil and dropped your forehead onto the paper with a thud. "I suck at art." 

Gangle only offered a sympathetic smile. She rose her head to peek over at what you drew and nearly burst out laughing. It was a bunch of smiley faces. Big ones, small ones, and even an angry face in the corner with a suspicious resemblance to a purple bunny. 

"No, no, it's good! It's so good." 

"Stop lying." 

"I'm not! Trust me," Gangle crawled closer and pointed to a smiley face with blush. "I like this one the most. Very cute!"

You cracked a smile at the praise and rose your head from the floor, your eyes refusing to meet Gangle's as you sat up on your elbows. "Well, I, uh, thanks. Can I look at yours?" 

"Mhm! Though…it's not too good so..." Gangle plucked a paper from her pile and looked away as she showcased it to you. You eagerly scanned the paper and couldn't help but let out a gasp. On the page was a human holding a large sword in a swinging pose, the details of the human's face and their outfit blowing in the wind was enough to draw your eyes over those areas the most. 

"It's…Gangle, how did you learn to draw so good? I-" You paused. "Oh wait, art school, yeah…but wow! Yours is really…"

Gangle watched your expression twist in disgust as you glanced back at your own paper. 

"Y-..yours is still good! Don't doubt you abilities, ok?" 

"Ok, I'll listen to the expert." You chuckled. Gangle's face exploded in a pink hue as she waved a ribbon half-heartedly. 

"I'm no expert…"

"You're kidding! Look at what you drew and look at mine! You're like…Picasso or something!" 

"You're exaggerating it's only a sketch…and I-"

"Looks like s#!t." 

The two of you jumped and nearly scrambled away from each other like ants on fire as Jax stood over the two of you. You registered what he said and growled as you watched him step on one of Gangle's drawings to pass by. Gangle whined as she reached for the stepped on page and gently swiped any dirt off of it. You, on the other hand, stood up with your balled art work in one first while slowly creeping up behind the tall bunny. 

"Oh…I'll have to redo this one..but that's ok.." Gangle sighed as she looked up to find your form missing. She called out your name before hearing someone screaming. Snapping her head to the sound, Gangle witnessed the sight of you on top of Jax's back with your arm down his throat. 

"...oh…"

Chapter 3: Taste of You

"Is..this ok?" 

Your eyelids fell over halfway and your bottom lip trembled as a soft shock of pleasure ran through you. Thick, white gloves held your hips securely above the bed with your legs folded over the ringleader's shoulder. A soft sigh made your chest rise and fall slowly. The mismatched pair of eyes watched your expression tentatively as you became undone before him. 

Your thighs felt nice whenever he gave them a squeeze, watching your face scrunch up or your eyes roll to the back of your head as he moved his tongue to the sensitive area between your legs. While he isn't able to feel much, watching your reaction to his movements quenched the insatiable curiosity he held for this part of human enjoyment. 

"Caine." You groaned as a knot formed in your stomach. The tip of his tongue flicked over that spot again making you whimper. It wasn't much further till you…

"Mm?" Was all the ring leader could respond with, after all he had a mouthful of you. His gaze never left your face, even when those pretty eyes were squeezed shut. He could feel your tight walls attempt to swallow more of his tongue inside, slick pouring into his mouth so easily as more of your pants filled the room. 

"Ah…hngh, Caine, oh fuck," You whined as your hips clamped around either side of the ring leade'rs jaw. Arching your back and crying out without a care for who or what hears you, your orgasm arrived. Yet, Caine's tongue kept its pace through it. Circling, rubbing, thrusting inside of you, and lifting your body higher to plunge that squirmy organ further into your hole. 

"Wa-..wait, I'm sensitive, I can't!" You gripped the bed sheets until it ripped from the mattress. "Caine, please, I-"

Your body was hit with another wave of pleasure. Harsher, hotter, and more intense than the first. Your thighs trembled as your chest rose and fell rapidly. Sweat clung to your digital body and the sheets below your ass were damp with the wet spot that formed from your mixed juices and his saliva. 

Caine moved his hands from your thighs to your ankles, revealing the marks left behind on your thighs. He carefully unhooked your legs from his shoulders and laid them onto the bed, he floated above you for a moment watching the afterglow of your climax shine on your face. Reaching out one hand he traced your lips with his thumb, palming at the mouth much smaller than his own. Cute. 

"How did I do, my dear? Were you 'pleased' with my performance?" 

You eyes, still glazed over from getting tongue-fucked, rolled over to meet Caine's expectant ones. Chuckling you reached up with the strength you had left to grab the floating pair of dentures head. 

Lifting yourself off of the bed, you bumped your lips against his teeth–which he closed in time to bump against your mouth in time. Well, he got his answer.

Chapter 4: Begging

"Alright, dream team, no dawdling now! Collect all the gloinks in the cavern and you'll have completed the adventure! Good luck and if you see something in the dark…run away! Ha ha ha!"

"Wait, can you repeat that-" 

"-No!" With a dramatic wave of his arm, Caine sent the crew inside of the portal and snapped it closed with a flick of his wrist. Dusting off his gloved hands, Caine patted himself down and stared at the empty space where the circus members once stood. The silence stretched for an uncomfortable amount of time, the ringleader patted his sides before turning to see you standing behind him.

"Hey."

" YOU! " Caine shouted. His posture straightened as he rubbed the tip of his cane against the side of his top denture. "Why aren't you with the others? I could have sworn I sent you in there with them."

You shrugged your shoulders and hummed out an inaudible noise to let him know you hadn't the clue why you weren't sent in the portal. Caine crossed his arms before springing back to life, "No matter! I'll send you in faster than you can say nothing beats a jet two holiday!"

"Wait a minute, Caine!" You raised your hands and halted the AI from snapping his fingers. You exhaled softly once you had his attention, bringing your hands down to your sides. Poking the checkered floor with your foot. "I was thinking…"

"Hmmm?" Caine lowered himself in front of you and tilted his 'head'. "You know I am always delighted to hear whatever ideas you have trapped in that chaotic head of yours!" 

"Well, I was wondering if we could have an adventure of our own. Just you and me." A comfortable warmth spreads from your chest to your throat. Suddenly, whatever worries you had unraveled and in its place was the ever growing heat greedily taking over your body. Your eyelids fell over your dilated pupils, your hands reached forward to cup both sides of Caine's head. A squeaky 'oh!' came from Caine when your hands touched him. His beady hetero-chromatic eyes bulged. As you leaned in closer, your voice sent tremors through his body as you spoke. 

"Like before? It's been too long since we've had fun together ." 

Caine's eyes grew twice in size, his smaller hands were placed over yours as he closed his dentures shut. A deep hum vibrated from the man in red, then his eyes peeked out as he opened his dentures slowly. 

"What a wonderful idea." Caine's usual boisterous tone melted into a low whisper. Within seconds, the two of you teleported to a private area inaccessible to the rest of the circus. To your knowledge you were the only one to be brought to this place. Caine's little hideaway where he plans his next adventures, keeps track of his current guests, and now a place for the two of you to hold your special adventures together. You settled onto the bed shoved in the corner, the familiar squeal of the springs sparked memories of your first time together. 

Biting your bottom lip, you hadn't noticed the bed dipping further down until Caine placed a hand on your knee. Leaning back on your hands, Caine's larger form overwhelmed your own. His dentures staking their claim in the crook of your neck, while small gentle licks trailed up and down your skin. His body flushed against your own, pressing you against the mattress and despite what you assumed about artificial intelligence…he was quite warm. 

"Caine." You cooed as the squeezing  hands glued to your waist. A snort left you as you realized after all this time, the ringleader still didn't have the courage to lead this 'adventure'. A thought crossed your mind and soon, a grin stretched across your face.

"Yes?" Caine mumbled against your neck, continuing to add more love bites on you. Oblivious to the gleam in your eyes. 

"I have another idea we can try out, you up for it?" Your finger traced the space where teeth and gum met. A low moan elicited from the man above you, his nails practically digging into your digital body as something solid poked you. 

"Y-..you know I am."

"Then get on the floor…oh, and untie your bow I'm gonna need it." 

"M-..my bow? What for, my dear?" Caine sputtered but reached for his bow-tie regardless. Handing it over to you, you quickly swooped forward—enough to make Caine tumble off of the bed just as you wanted—and restrained Caine's hands behind his back. Using the very tie he gave you to tie a knot around his wrists. Testing the strength of the restraints, a satisfied huff left you. Caine didn't struggle once during this exchange, instead carefully observing you and feeling a growing tightness in his pants as you reclined on the bed with your legs spread before him. 

"Only touching my waist is boring and since you refuse to touch me elsewhere..." You mused. Your words hung on every syllable, the kneeling AI squirmed on the floor but kept his mouth, your lips in his sight. He missed the feeling of your skin against his own body, it had been far too long. The thought of you touching him again made the shape pressing against his pants twitch. "…you don't get to touch me at all." 

"Oh…" Caine groaned. "I'm so-"

You tutted, cutting Caine off from speaking any further. 

"I'm not interested in that. If you're sorry, you can make it up in other ways." One of your hands rubbed along your inner thigh, fingers barely brushing against the place you wanted him to pay attention to the most. Caine's eyes snapped over to your fingers in time to see you caress the area, a gulp followed as he used his knees to inch closer. Right when he was about to stick his tongue out, your hand shot out and stopped him. 

"Is this not what you wanted? I'm confused, dear, I thought…" Caine was shushed by your hand nudging him back. 

"If you want to make it up to me, beg for it." You crooned. "I want you to prove to me how badly you want to-"

"Please let me touch you!" Caine interrupted. "I want to feel you a-...and be close to you." 

You watched with baited breath as Caine shuffled even closer. Resting his head on your knee, which you moved away causing a high-pitched whine to come from the pair of dentures. The sound made goosebumps rise, this was new . You haven't heard Caine make such desperate sounds before. Perhaps you should refrain from indulging him in the future. 

"I want to taste you on my tongue, feel your insides squeeze around me." Caine continued to babble. "Let me make it up to you! I'll make you feel so good you'll see stars!"

"Hmm." You hummed, shifting your gaze away from his pleading one. Scooting further away from the edge of the bed, Caine watched with a 'frown' as you pulled away from him. The warmth radiating off of you left and he was stuck kneeling on the hard, cold floor. 

"Dear, honey, sweetheart! I promise I'll be good for you," Caine nearly wailed as the ache between his legs desperately needed some friction. You watched him, finally sighing and relenting since you also wanted to feel him too. 

"Fine, fine, but if you can't get yourself out of that knot I won't he-"

SNAP! 

Caine effortlessly broke free from the bow-tie and lunged for you. You made a weird mix of a laugh and yelp as his hands gripped your ankles. You were yanked back to the edge of the bed with Caine pinning you beneath him. As you moved your lips to speak, you were silenced by his kiss. Well, bumping his teeth against your mouth hardly counted as a kiss, but the thought still counts. Hands wrestled with each other's body as clothes were thrown about. Another fruitful adventure was about to start.

Chapter 5: Insecurities

You stood in front of the door, your fingers gripped your opposite arm as sweat built up on your brow. This shouldn't be difficult, but you couldn't help the pit forming in your churning stomach. Your body felt cool to the touch but burning up underneath, if you didn't have the feeling of dread crawling up your spine you would've assumed you had a fever. Your chest rose and fell in sluggish successions, hands pinned to your sides as you straightened your back and reached for the knob. Twisting it revealed Caine's office space, a messy yet comfortable space filled with boards littered with sticky notes, red strings strewn about, a mirror, papers all across the floor, a chair facing the large desk, and of course the ringleader himself sitting on top of the desk. His short legs kicked back and forth as a notepad laid on his crossed leg, his eyes followed the scribbles and his hand was a blur of movement. 

"Uh…hey?" Your voice came out in a croak, which you quickly swallowed to moisten your dry mouth. 

Caine's hand stopped as he looked up from the notepad to stare at you. He jolted and chucked the notepad behind him as he floated in the air to greet you enthusiastically, "You came! For a moment I thought I would have to tie you up and drag you in here myself!"

You offered a polite smile as you closed the door behind you and scurried over to the chair opposite to the desk. Your cheeks were already hot from feeling Caine's intense gaze watching you scramble for the chair. Sitting down, you had a moment to breathe. Great, now you wouldn't look like an idiot standing there at the door. Oh gosh, did you walk funny? Hopefully Caine didn't notice anything off, wait, was there something on your back? 

As you slump against the chair, Caine cleared his nonexistent throat before floating back to the desk. He spun his chair and a poofing noise sounded off, as the chair spun back to its original position Caine's larger form replaced his smaller one. You blinked from your nook of self-doubt at the sound of snaps, raising your gaze from the colorful carpet to the ringleader. 

"Now, let's get to business!" Caine leaned against the desk. "I have been hearing word that a certain birdie isn't spreading her wings and joining the others on the adventures I've so painstakingly made to entertain everyone! Tell me, does that seem fair? Or is something wrong?"

"N-..no, nothing's wrong." You replied. Your eyes continued to flick around the room, always looking around but never meeting Caine's eyes straight on. Caine watched with a raised denture before parting his teeth to speak, only for you to raise your hand and wave it frantically.  "I just…don't feel up to it? I mean…your adventures are great don't get me wrong! I do have fun but.."

Should you tell him? Do you really wanna open the flood gates and get emotional with an AI of all things? Your throat felt drier than before and before you knew it, you clamped your mouth shut and lowered your head. Caine hummed as he clasped his gloved hands together. Something was clearly wrong, but knowing his adventures weren't the problem was definitely a relief. 

"I see, I see, well worry not, dear player! Whatever you say here will not be leaked nor will others hear. I will not press you for details but I expect you to join in from now on! We can't have two Zoobles in the circus after all!" Caine's shoulders shook as he laughed. You, however, didn't find that funny. 

"I don't want to, I'm sorry, but unless I can go on an adventure by myself…then I can't do it." You crossed your arms over your chest. Caine's chuckles halted as he choked on nothing, he slammed a fist against his chest until his eyes and tongue spilled out. You cringed as Caine scooped them back up before zooming to grab your face.

" WHAT?! Alone?? No, no, no that won't do! Adventures are made for everyone's enjoyment and simply going alone won't even be considered an adventure anymore!" Caine shook your head a few times before grabbing you by your biceps. You squealed and thrashed in the taller man's grip as he dragged you over to the mirror, presenting you in front of it as he forced your limbs in all sorts of directions. Twisting your head around and even summoning a large magnifying glass to check you over. 

"Hmm, nothing too concerning but…I still cannot believe you would suggest something so ludicrous! I don't see anything wrong with you, so there is no excuse not to participate!" Caine paused and looked off screen. "Unless…something is wrong with her head…should I pop inside and take a-"

"There is!" You either found the strength to push away from Caine, or he allowed you to get out of his grip. It didn't matter because in your angered state you split the beans. "Look at me! This..this body isn't made for adventures or being around the others! It's weird…out of shape, disgusting…even Jax can't stand to be around me for long and everybody else gets hounded by him daily! I..I just…" 

You sniffed and dug your nails into your palms to keep yourself from spilling over even more than you already have. Caine kept silent during your rant, not making a peep as you spoke out. You expected this and didn't want to get your hopes up for a piece of coding that probably wouldn't understand complex human dilemmas such as this. You flinched when a few fingers touched your face, reeling back to make eye contact with Caine. The pair of dentures only continued his pursuit and cupped both sides of your face, compared to last time his strong grip was gentle. You felt glued to the spot as Caine's gloves traced your face, leaving no curve, nook, or feature untouched. 

"What are you…" Your words died as those warm, soft hands trailed down to your neck. His larger gloves encased around your throat for a moment before moving downward, rubbing your shoulders and tucking his hands under your arms to lift you up. You instinctively placed your hands on his broad shoulders but moved them as he walked over to the desk. You were laid out on the desk's top, Caine bent over your form and continued his feather-like touches. This was the first time in a long time since anyone has touched you, not even Ragatha's friendly touches were directed at you most of the time. You…enjoyed the feeling of his hands on you, the firmness and confidence behind each caress, his gloves leaving behind a trail of warmth in its path, and his eyes. You found yourself breathless as you watched his eyes stay solely on your body. You realized the intensity of his stare and moved to turn your body away, but an unyielding hand on your hip kept you flat as a board. 

"I have looked long and hard." Caine's voice rose in volume as he turned to look at you. "I see absolutely nothing wrong with your body, it is neither disgusting or unbearable."

Caine's fingers danced along your hip before sliding down to your thigh, his fingers inching closer to the inner area between your legs. You sprung up from the desk and pushed a hand against Caine's chest, looking away from him as you pulled yourself to the edge of the desk and hopped off. 

"I get it." You whispered. Words were hard to push out as you could feel the heat radiating off of you, legs weak, and worse of all a growing fuzz that bloomed in your chest. Caine didn't resist and smiled as he patted your shoulder, leaning over your hunched form to say, "My, my, it seems I'll have many more adventures to plan to help boost your confidence! Starting here in my office will do and it will be just the two of us! Is…that alright with you?"

You raised your head and for the first time, didn't force a smile. 

"Yeah." 

Chapter 6: Participation

Standing a far ways off from the group, you planted your feet on the ground and did not move. Not that you had any plans of moving from the teleporting spot, it had been a routine at this point. The gang, including you, get chucked into a new thrilling adventure, you stand still the entirety of it, and get sent back to the tent afterwards. At first, Ragatha urged you to join them and have some fun but you politely declined each time. You reassured her you were having enough fun where you are and eventually the gang left it at that. Yet, there was still one person bothered by your lack of spirit. Caine. The AI had been watching every single adventure you've joined, from the pirates invading a kingdom to the roadtrip across an ice cream tundra. You. Refused. To. Join. In. On. The. Fun. Caine could not understand why you were not attempting to humor him like the rest, at least they dragged themselves along like they were supposed to but you? You were an annoying piece of work. The ringleader had tried everything in the book; persuasion, treats, empty promises, half promises, short-fused anger, and even begging. Everytime Caine came to you, you seemed more interested in hearing him talk than actually listening!

...

Oh.

Oh.

Caine snapped his fingers and the two of you were seated on a couch in the area by the stage. You blinked a few times and settled against the soft, plastic-y cushions while Caine cleared his throat.

"Hello, player! What a wonderful day to sit and talk, right?" Caine swung his arms around and spoke with an animated stride. The corners of your mouth twitched upward and you leaned your head to the side to rest in your palm. A small hum of approval from you was all he needed to blast into the main topic.

"I have gathered enough evidence to believe you are not interested in my adventure! I've done everything I can to understand WHY-" Caine's teeth clamped shut for a moment, the sudden action producing a clicking noise before his eyes landed on yours. "-but you haven't given me anything to work with, dear player! Now does that seem fair to you? No? Great! Because it does not feel good to constantly have my ideas be squashed because of ONE PERSON NOT FOLLOWING WHAT THEY'RE SUPPOSED TO-"

Caine shrunk himself to a comfortable size as he lifted his fist to reveal his thumb in the air.

"Which is alright! Having opinions is always something I look forward to hearing about," The ringleader exclaimed in an perfunctory tone that even you wouldn't trust. Caine held that pose for a good minute, unblinking and seemingly frozen in place. You lifted your head and parted your lips to call out the AI's name.

"You want to know why I don't participate?"

"Because you don't like my adventures, I know, I've dealt with Zooble long enough to seek the flags of someone-"

You silenced the ringleader with your next words.

"I like your adventures."

"….you do?" Caine mumbled as his top denture furrowed. His hands were intertwined while his thumbs rolled around each other. This information…changed things, yet he couldn't shake the feeling that you weren't being one hundred percent. He did not understand you and your silly ways of 'liking' his adventures. Your actions told him and everyone else you downright hated every adventure you've been coerced in. How could you claim to like his adventures when your actions say otherwise?

"I do." You nodded. Your gaze roamed along the ringleaders body, stopping at his head and staring intently as his mismatched eyes flickered between you and the empty space in front of him. A soft sigh exhaled through your nose, you pushed yourself off of the couch and walked over to Caine's seat. Sitting at the empty space next to him snapped the ringleader from his stupor, he whirled his head around to find you getting comfortable.

"If you like my…adventures…" Caine trailed off, his words evaporating as the warmth from your proximity brushed against his body. Were…players even supposed to be warm? Caine did not dwell on it too long as he had other matters that needed answers. The unfinished question hung in the air for quite some time. The two of you sat together with your shoulders nearly grazing the others.

"I like your adventures." You reaffirmed, twisting your torso to face Caine. "I…don't like doing them unless you're there with me…with us."

"W…what?" Caine sputtered. "You know I am al…always watching! So technically I am there for whenever you rambunctious misfits decide to.."

"No, I want to you to be there. I want to see you," You chuckled. "Actually, I am more interested in learning about you than going on an adventure you conjure up."

Caine's shoulders jumped up when your hand landed on his arm. He leaned away but stared into your eyes, disbelief swirled around in his gaze as he searched for anything that would suggest you were lying. He found nothing. You…really liked him? Like a admiration kind of like, right?

"Wowza! I am flattered and all…I mean I am great there is no denying that, so it's understandable you humans would find someone as mysterious and powerful as I WAIT, wait, wait!" Caine jumped up from the couch and into the air, snatching his hand away from yours in the process. See, as he went on to explain why it was natural for everyone to adore him, he hadn't noticed your slipping your hand into his own. The feeling was…foreign, but not unwelcomed as he thought it'd be. He even caught himself intertwining his fingers with yours as he rambled on. Was…this what you meant by liking him?

Scandalous.

Not surprising though.

Pink lines appeares on the bottom of his dentures, his back hunched as he rose a fist to his teeth. Clearing his throat for the second time, Caine straightened out and lowered himself onto the couch, right next to you. You watch from beginning to end at the AI's internal struggle, muffling your laughter behind a cupped hand as he bristled and eyes growing in size every now and then. You knew how skittish the AI was about…'frisky' behavior and anything suggesting such. You had to be slow, subtle, and above all let him assume what you meant by 'like.' If it was a version he accepted on his own, you were happy to not be ghosted the minute you expressed these feelings even if they might be misinterpreted.

"So, uh, how…what exactly do you find about me pleasing?" Caine twiddled his thumbs, pinching and tugging at the material of his gloves. "There's so much to like about me, that's for sure! But ah…um, I'd like to hear it straight from my dear players mouth!"

"You're funny," You glanced up as a list of reasons sorted itself in your mind. "I enjoy the way you try to make everything fun and exciting, even if the others don't like it….you have a lot of ideas to keep us entertained, those cute gestures you do to demonstrate what you're saying, you care enough to listen to us sometimes..oh! And.."

Caine's eyes widened as his pupils dilated, the compliments kept pouring in as you spoke with such fervor that caused the AI to simply…stare at you. His red dentures was nothing compared to the growing heat rising in his chest. If he did not know any better, he would assume you were buttering him up for something. Playing nice in order to appease him enough not to lash out was a norm in the circus tent, but a few didn't bother with such pleasantries. He didn't know what to feel at that exact moment. Happy? Content? Relieved that someone genuinely seemed to like him and his antics?

"…Caine? Caine?"

"Oh! Uh, yes?!"

"Are you okay?"

"I am more than okay! Now that I know you're lack of enthusiasm towards my adventures is no fault of my own, I can rest easy! However, I still expect you to put in some effort moving forward, my slothful sausage roll!" Caine announced. He slowly rode from the couch like a piece of dust drifting in the air. You watched with a frown as Caine disappeared from view, only to jolt back when he reappeared behind you.

"Oh and…thank you." Caine stretched his hand out to pat your head before he popped out of there. You blinked a few times before reclining against the couch. Today was a small victory in letting the AI know of your feelings, nothing major happened aside from holding his hand but…you wouldn't have it any other way.

Chapter 7: Ballroom

Summary:

Caine wants to be included on the festivities.

A few knocks woke you up from your dream. The sounds persisted until you sat up and yelled you were coming to the door. Pushing yourself to the edge of the bed, you stared at the carpet and frowned. It had been a few days since you've arrived at the digital circus, everyone had been welcoming so far—except for a purple rabbit—and you've had no complaints.

Until it happened.

You did not know why the ringleader to grew a sudden interest in you. For some reason, he's been on your case far more than he has been with Zooble. You were flattered at first until he personally made it his mission to visit you outside of doing adventures. Asking you random questions about yourself, things like what you did before coming to the circus, what colors you liked, and what you would bring to a deserted island made of ice cream.

You didn't know what to do with this sudden attention zeroed in on you and you alone. Hiding did nothing and you could only stay in your room for so long with the sounds of heavy breathing and teeth chattering outside of your room. Caine had no qualms keeping you up at night with the sounds of paper crumbling and his hushed rambling.

You blinked these thoughts away when Ragatha's muffled voice spoke through your bedroom door.

"Uhh…is everything alright in there, ___?" Ragatha rose a hand to the knob, but backed away when the door cracked open. You stood there peering through the gap. "Hey! Good to see you up and at 'em! I wanted to grab you so we won't miss the new adventure Caine has cooked up."

"New…adventure?" You squinted at the redheaded rag doll. Ragatha nodded, her red curls bouncing with her movement as she bunched up her hands in front of her chest. 

"I'm actually kind of excited for this one! Come on, everyone's waiting for us and I don't want to ruin the surprise!" Ragatha chirped with a wave of her arm and turned on her stubby foot to walk down the hall. You opened your mouth to call after her, Ragatha stopped and looked over her shoulder with a smile.

"Is…everyone there? Even…"

"Zooble! Yeah, even they decided to join in, shocking, huh?" Ragatha exclaimed. You squeezed your eyes shut and exhaled softly, there was no going back now. You didn't want to be the one Caine singles out the next time he manages to bump into you.

"I'm coming."

"Great! Let's go together!" Ragatha began walking once you caught up to her.

The two circus members traveled through the corridor together. It did not take long for them to arrive at the stage where everyone else stood to receive the news of the upcoming adventure. You stood next to Ragatha and crossed your arms, looking up at the floating pair of dentures who spoke animatedly at the others. Your body tensed as his mismatched eyes scanned the crowd before landing on you. You quickly shifted your gaze away from him and kicked at the floor. The feeling of someone watching you slipped away, and only then did you breathe out a sigh.

"AH! I see all of you are quite thrilled to hear about what I have in store! Well, fear no longer, my merry misfits! We'll be doing another in house adventure…but less violent!"

"Oh, great, and what exactly is your version of 'less violent' entail for us?" Zooble piped up. Caine twisted his head around to stare at them before swinging his arm across his chest as he zapped himself over to assorted circus member.

"GLAD YOU ASKED, ZOOBLE! We'll be hosting a ball right in the circus! Get your dresses, your suits, your shoes and be dolled up for the wacky wonders this magical event will besto!" Caine snapped his fingers and the lighting dimmed to the point it was hard to see in the darkness. Everyone jumped as the roar of flames appeared above, large chanderliers with candles of varying sizes illuminated the circus tent. An area around the stage changed and a platform with a small set of stairs led to it. The usual black and white tiles on that platform morphed into an assortment of colors ranging from red, blue, pinks, yellows, and greens.

"Oh!" Gangle's voice made you snap your head to look in her direction. The sentient ribbons and mask donned a ball gown, the smooth fabric of the dress skirt fluttered as Gangle turned around to examine herself. A large bow made up of Gangle's ribbons also appeared behind her mask.

"Wow, Gangle! You…look amazing!" Pomni gasped.

"You don't look too bad yourself, Pomni!" Ragatha teased as she bent down to look at the jesters dress. It shared the same colors as her usual (and only) outfit, stopped mere inches from touching the floor, and instead of the hat Pomni wore a crown headpiece with a bell attached. Her hair was styled in a high bun and the heels she wore added a few inches to her height.

"Thanks! I can say the same for you." Pomni rubbed the back of her neck with a small smile. Ragatha wore a blue, strapless, A-line gown with jeweled earrings. Her hair seemed…longer than usual and styled in a side sweep. Pomni parted her lips to speak again when a rough shove made her stumble forward. Her gaze narrowed at the purple rabbit dressed in black.

"Alright, ladies, enough with the compliments! The main attraction hasn't even arrived yet." Jax pointed to himself.

"Ha, ha, funny." Zooble shot back as they pulled at the collar of their dress suit.

"Oh, I'm sorry, was someone who looks ridiculous in a monkey suit talking?"

"Jax!" Ragatha chastised.

"Not as ridiculous as you wearing suspenders, Easter Bunny," Pomni crossed her arms over her chest. Jax feigned a hurt expression.

"Whaaaat? You don't dig the threads I'm-"

"HELLO, everyone! I hope you're liking your new outfits because you won't be able to change out of them anytime soon! I've consulted with me, myself, and I…we all agree you party-goers deserve a bit of fun after the last adventure!"

"Oh boy, here it comes."

"SHUSH! Now, where was I? Oh! Right." Caine twisted his body fast enough to form a mini hurricane that disappeared as he stopped to reveal his own formal attire. His…outfit was not any different from his regular clothes, the only difference was the deeper shade of red suit with gold accents. "The name of this game is to dance till you drop! Keep dancing and if you and your partner are the last ones on the floor…you win! Simple as that. At any point you stop moving those bodies, a tile will inflict a punishment!"

"What…kind of punishment?" Pomni asked.

"Instead of telling you, I'll show you! I just need a volunteer."

Silence followed.

Caine's left eye twitched, he snapped his gaze to Kinger and pointed the end of his cane at the older member. The chess piece wore his robes but they appeared more regal for this event. The fluffy collar appeared more fluffy, he had white gloves with gold cuff-links, and studs at the lining of his robes.

"You'll do! Step right up, Kinger!"

"Oh…okay." Kinger blinked and stepped towards the platform. Caine gestured to the yellow tile.

"Wonderful! See how he's not-"

BRRRZZZZZZ!

"-dancing?"

"What just happened." Kinger asked, his eyes flicked down to his burnt body. A few seconds of silence flew by before the chess piece fell flat on his face. Everyone watched as the wisps of grey smoke floated up from the burnt Kinger. Caine snapped his fingers and Kinger teleport-ed near a food table, his body unceremoniously fell limp against the table.

"This is your idea of fun?!" Zooble was the first to shout. They pinched the area between their eyes and sighed heavily.

"Why are you surprised, Zoo Zoo? There's always a catch to stuff like this." Jax slung his suit's coat over his shoulder.

"Don't ever call me that again." Zooble hissed. Caine butted in between the two causing them to jump back.

"Anyway! If you stop before you drop, you'll either be electrocuted, flung out of the dance floor, dropped into piranha filled water, or get tomatoes thrown at you until you're painted red!" Caine leaned back and gestured to the ensemble. "Now, pick your partner and get those bones moving!"

You gripped your arm tightly as a knot formed in your stomach. Gulping down the last bit of saliva in your mouth, your eyes scanned the group and to your horror…everyone gravitated to the person they wanted to partner up with. Kinger was out for the count, Ragatha and Pomni were chatting away, and Zooble took Gangle onto the platform to begin. That left you with…

"Hey there, short and sweaty, you ready to win this thing?"

"Jax…" You winced and lifted your head to look at the purple rabbit standing before you. "I think I'll sit this one out. I'm sure you can dance by yourself just fine…plus Kinger-"

"No, nope, nada, I am not getting rejected again, c'mon." Jax grabbed your wrist and forced you onto the floor. You tried to claw at his gloved hand, even pleading with him to release you but it was all for nothing. The moment the soles of your fancy shoes touched the tiles you knew you were done for.

"What are you so antsy for? It's not like I'll bite…maybe," Jax moved his hand from your wrist to properly hold onto you. His other hand settled on your waist, thankfully he had the decency not to grab too tight. The uncomfortable feeling of being watched settled onto the area Jax held you. A shudder ran down your spine as you instinctively ducked your head low, not just out of fear but to keep a close eye on your footwork.

A disembodied orchestra began playing generic, copyright-free music in the distance.

"I don't know how to dance, idiot," You seethed. Nostrils flaring as you dug your nails into his glove. "That's why I didn't want to be here!"

"How was I supposed' to know you lack any interesting qualities? Just follow my lead and we'll be fine." Jax scoffed. You hesitantly lifted a hand to his shoulder, the two of you began swaying awkwardly. Your eyes remained on the tiles, your feet stumbling over each other, and even stepped on Jax's toes a few times.

"Ouch! Hey! You know what…I can't do this anymore." Jax forcibly held you by your wrists.

"Wait what do you mean by that?!"

Jax grinned.

Before you knew it, you were spun around violently and couldn't see anything but a flurry of colors. A nauseating feeling rose in your throat as you finally stopped yourself, pressing a hand against the side of your head as your eyes re-focused.

"Oh no, ___! Watch out!" A familiar voice called out, but you didn't have time to register who it was when a pink tile sparkled brightly under you.

It happened within seconds, but the horror freezing in your veins lasted forever.

KABOUSSH!!

You were weightless and for a moment you didn't feel in danger. That moment did not last as you began failing towards the floor. You frantically waved your arms around and twisted your body around only to see Kinger's widened eyes. Then everything went black.

"….__"

What?

Who was that?

"…____?"

Who was calling your name and why does something smell so good?

You cracked open your eyes and saw something white invade your entire field of vision. Moaning in pain, the white thing was removed from your face and Kinger's half-lidded, worry filled gaze met your own.

"Oh, thank goodness. I thought you were never going to wake up."

"How long was I…"

"Five minutes…I really couldn't find anything strong enough to wake you up," Kinger apologetically explained. He then held up the white thing, which was a slice of cake that smelled strongly of peppermint. "Other than this of course."

You touched around your body and found no broken bones, no twisted limbs, just an irritating ache between your temples. You touched the area and found a small bump. Must've been when you collided with Kinger……Kinger!

"You're okay!" You exclaimed as you sat up from laying on the chess piece's lap. Kinger smiled with his eyes and nodded.

"Yes, I am. You're too! Just a tiny head wound but you'll be fine after a while. Injuries don't last here, but the pain does unfortunately," Kinger glanced down at the cake and stretched it out towards you.

"Hungry?"

"Thanks, but I don't think I can eat right now." You shook your head and turned to look at the dance floor. Pomni and Ragatha were still going on strong, Zooble and Gangle too. On the other hand…Jax was still dancing by himself and not looking like he'll lose anytime soon. In fact, he seemed to be dancing a little too close to the unmasked duo. You bit the bottom of you lip and hugged yourself.

"You okay?" Kinger asked slowly.

"Yeah, I'm fine." You muttered. Your gaze hardened, tearing it away from the brightly lit platform and reaching for a fruit to pick at.

"…" Kinger looked between you and the dance floor. The small altercation between you and Jax wasn't something he missed. He stared at the dance floor for a while then turned to you. "You know…I didn't know how to dance either…in fact I sucked at it."

Your finger halted peeling the skin of an orange. You peeked at the chess piece from the corner of your eye.

"You weren't good at dancing?"

"Yeah, before the circus…I couldn't dance to save my life. I was told I had two left feet and it was true until I met my wife. She was the one who roped me into dancing…every morning while preparing breakfast, she'd have her favorite song playing and oftentimes tricked me into dancing with her." Kinger looked at his hands and rubbed his thumbs together. "I was never any good…but she didn't mind. Eventually, the silly dancing turned to me actually learning how to dance for her. I got good and managed to surprise her with my killer moves!"

You and Kinger shared a laugh, the previous weight in your chest lifted and turned into a fuzzy feeling. You placed the orange on the table and turned your body to face Kinger. Then…the ugly feeling came back again. The corners of your mouth twitched downward, resisting the urge to look around the ceiling to find the ringleader's unwavering gaze.

"What I'm trying to say is…you don't have to feel about about not knowing how to dance. Everyone doesn't know how to do something until they've learned it." Kinger reassured.

You inhaled deeply and exhaled out a sigh, "Thanks Kin-"

"YOU STUPID F@#$^&^ RABBIT!"

The two of you flinched and whipped your heads around to see Zooble and Gangle running off the platform while a storm of tomatoes dropped onto them. Jax was still on the dance floor laughing his heart out at the scene. Gangle sniffled and sat next to you with Zooble sitting to her other side. A few words were exchanged between the 'loser' before the attention was drawn back to the platform.

Only two more to go. It seemed like Ragatha and Pomni were now focused on keeping a distance away from Jax. However, the rabbit continued to twirl his way to the two. It did not take long for another incident to happen. This time, Jax stole Ragatha away from Pomni by intercepting a spin. The entire thing was funny to look at from the outside, but the music's tempo increased made the remaining dancers stuck in a deadlock.

Ragatha managed to break free from Jax's hold and danced her away over to Pomni, only to be tugged back and twirled until she smacked her face against the rabbit's chest.

"I hope he loses," Zooble muttered with eyes narrowed into a scowl. Gangle only wiped away her tears, the comedy mask was broken by the flurry of fruits thrown at her earlier. You hummed in agreement and never tore your eyes away from the stage.

After what seemed like forever, Pomni and Ragatha were reunited. Jax, fortunately, tripped up after Pomni butted in the moment he was aiming to use a similar move he used on you to throw Ragatha off the platform. Jax was left scrambling to dance again but was too late and yelped as he was dropped into a cube filled with piranha filled waters. A quiet, drawn out 'yes' came from Zooble as they fist bumped the air. Jax was later pulled out and chucked at the food table, soaking from head to toe and shivering as a piranha continued to chew on the end of his ear.

The winners slowed their pace to match the music reaching a low, smiles plastered on their flushed faces as they breathed deeply. At least it was over now…

 

…

 

Why didn't the music stop?

"Uh…Caine?" Pomni shouted. "Caine, didn't we win already?"

"My, my! I forgot to mention you have one more member to win against!" Caine floated down from a dark corner and gestured towards the food table. "Kinger's demonstration did not count. So, pick your partner Kinger and get on up here!"

"What?" Kinger tilted his head.

"WHAT?!" Pomni and Ragatha spook in unison. Caine shrugged and floated back in his hiding spot. The two girls looked at each other and groaned.

"Oh, alright then." Kinger rose from his seat and offered a hand to you. "Do you wanna dance?"

"Huh?" You blinked.

"I could teach you how to dance if you want. Could be good practice opportunity!" Kinger chuckled. You stared at his palm and smiled, taking his hand and standing with him.

"Sure."

 

The four circus members stood on the shining platform. Pomni and Ragatha took on a slow approach since they've been dancing for a long time. You and Kinger followed in suit, but more so you could understand Kinger's instructions. Your grip on his hand tightened whenever the two of you would pause, the feeling of being thrown out still made you anxious.

"You're doing great, ___. Just follow how my…oh.." Kinger glanced down. "I don't have any feet….ju..just follow how my body turns and take it slow."

"Ok…just..follow you.." You uttered cautiously. After a few minutes, you seemed to get the hang of it pretty quickly. Perhaps a guiding hand and gentle voice were all you needed after all. The two of you picked up the pace and spun around the platform. Kinger kept you moving around the board, always comforting you whenever a small mishap happened or swinging your body around just before you could mess up a step. The chess piece held you close and the warmth of his gaze and 'smile' made this adventure all the more worthwhile.

That was, until the music picked up.

It was different than before. Angrier, quicker, and more passionate.

 

"Why is the music so fast?" Ragatha sputtered as her legs felt like they were made of cotton….huh…wait a minute wasn't she already made out of-

"I dunno, just keep moving! We're going to win for sure this time." Pomni shouted over the music. While the two kept at it, you and Kinger were having a bit of trouble. Correction, you were having trouble.

The thrumping in your heart increased tenfold, Kinger's eyes narrowed and his eyelids bent in concern. This clearly was a speed you couldn't handle at your skill level and despite Kinger attempting to match the song, you couldn't keep up no matter how you tried to move with Kinger and the rhythm.

"I-" Just when you were about to call it quits before something worst happened. Kinger hooked his hands underneath your armpits and lifted you up, moving his hands underneath your thighs and still twirling around the platform with you in in his hold.

"Kinger?!" You exclaimed. Wrapping your legs around his waist and wrapping your arms around his shoulders.

"We're in this together! A couple of left-feet dancers gotta stick together!" Kinger announced. You didn't know what to say at that moment, but craned your neck back to let out a laugh.

"Yeah! I guess that's right!"

If only.

Kinger leaned back a little to far and the weight of gravity on your back reminded you of the earlier stunt that knocked you out. Swallowing back a scream, you were shocked to feel Kinger pull you higher. The chess piece chucked you away as he landed on a pink tile. You landed on your side with a loud thump and whipped around to watch the figure dressed in purple robes fly in the air towards the food table.

"Kinger!" You moved to stand, stepping forward to rush off the platform by a tile shone directly below you. "Sh$%, Sh$%, Sh$%."

As if you were glued to the floor, your body refused to move. The blue tile slid open and the snaps of the digital piranhas formed goosebumps on your arms. Sweat dripped from your forehead in waves, breathing became harder and the corners of your vision blackened as a result. You closed your eyes and felt the ground beneath your shoes give way, until you were swept up for the third time.

A hand gripped yours while forcing its digits in between your fingers, they successfully tangled them with yours. You flinched at a hand pressing the upper half of your back with an arm snug around your torso. You were pressed against a firm chest. Looking up at what should've been down was a pair of green and blue eyeballs.

"That was close! It's a good thing I was there to save you, right?" Caine brought the two of you on the platform. Just a few ways off from an exhausted Pomni and Ragatha. Their half-lidded gazes shot up as they watched Caine attempt to waltz you around the dance floor.

"Caine?"

"The one and only! You can say it twice if you're unsure."

"Wha-…no I mean, why are you here? Isn't this supposed to be a competition between players?" You fired off question after question. Your face still hot from the excitement from earlier, it was not the good kind. Eventually, you became starkly aware of how close the two of you were. Faces, or rather teeth, mere inches from each other and your bodies moving in sync with the music. You could feel the details of Caine's suit against your outfit, feel his gaze cling to yours stronger than ever. You tugged your body away from the ringleader, now the two of you weren't literally chest against chest. Caine teeth bent downward and he squeezed your hand slightly.

"I never said it was only for you humans to compete. I decided I wanted to compete too, that being said let's work together!" Caine exclaimed. You yelped as Caine pulled the two of your towards your competitors. Earlier when Caine snatched you, a pair of weights wrapped itself around your ankles and felt odd…but, for some reason your feet followed Caine's lead without you needing to. Your eyes flicked downward, watching with amazement at how quick your legs moved to keep up with the ringleader. Was Caine always this good of a dancer? Why was he helping you?

Wait a minute…isn't this cheating?

"How are you liking this adventure so far, dear? It should be everything you could've hoped for." Caine's voice brought you back to the present. You pursed your lips at the term he used, but answered him nonetheless.

"What do you mean?"

"I made this adventure entirely from your tastes! Isn't…isn't this what you wanted?" Caine muttered. "I could have sworn this is what you liked!"

You rose a brow and broke eye contact to think of when and what the heck Caine was talking about.

A memory came to the forefront in your mind. You remembered talking to Gangle in the main area, chatting about anime and other genres that the two of you enjoyed. You, in particular, had a fascination with ballroom scenes in movies, shows, and anything really. The magical moments made you forget about the worries of adulting for a while, as you endearingly told Gangle. The two of you had no clue your conversation was overhead by wandering eyes.

A warmth spread across your face and you were shocked into breathlessness. He…remembered that? So, this adventure was all for your sake?

Half of you wanted to scream at the ringleader for his misinterpretation of what you meant, and the other half…the small part of you felt happy at this confession. Was this okay? Were you okay with this? Why did it feel so wrong yet so right?

Caine's teeth moved into a grin, his head closing in as he dropped you into a dip. The glove clutching your hand moved to the back of your head, pushing your head to graze the top half of his denture. Your body was frozen and couldn't register what the ringleader intended to do, but you didn't feel like you were in danger. Not like the other times he stood outside your door, or stared at you from afar.

This felt different.

"I'm glad you remember."

"AH NO!"

You and Caine were still staring at each other as the splash of water sounded off behind Caine. Ragatha's voice followed Pomni's as she cried out in pain, the crackle of electricity made the warm moment break and you remembered exactly where you were. Exhaling softly, you reached up to press your palm against Caine's chest and flinched at the warmth penetrating your hand from his suit.

"How…anyway, uh, we won?"

"We did." Caine raised you from the dip and right when you moved to step away, he pulled you back with his arm around your waist in a side-hug. Pops of confetti and the lights shining back on made you blink.

"You don't have to be so clo-" You started.

"-CONGRATULATIONS TO BOTH ME AND ___ FOR WINNING THIS ADVENTURE!" Caine's voice boomed louder than his usual volume. You winced and blinked a few times. Being right next to his denture head did not save you from his scream. Background claps and cheers came from the disembodied voices. The other members at the food table either clapped, glared, or began talking about yet another bizarre finish to an adventure.

"What about the prize?" Jax was the first to bring it up, crossing his arms across his chest. If looks could kill, you'd be chopped twice and put in a blender. You rose your shoulders to your ears and glanced away.

"Glad you asked, bunny boy!" Caine stepped away from you to summon three cards. Holding them with both hands, the ringleader urged you to pick one. You scanned the back of each card carefully. All of them were white but had different symbols on the back of each that faced you. One card had a rubix cube, another with a ball covered in slime, and the last one a heart with a swan spreading its wings.

You took a few seconds deciding and reached out for the last card. Caine's eyes sparkled as the other two cards disappeared.

"Wonderful choice! I wouldn't have expected any less from you, my dear. Now present your choice to the group!" Caine spun in the air and raised his hands above his head. You turned the card around and read the description aloud.

 

"An…all expense-paid date in the tunnel of love and war with Caine..what?"

"WHAT?!"

"Pfft-AHAHAHA!" Jax fell backwards on his chair.

"Until next time, my cumbersome kittens!" Caine tipped his hat and popped out of sight.

You closed your eyes and took a deep breath.

"God d@#$%^."

Notes:

whew! that took a while to finish. Again, sorry for the long stretches without posting much. I plan on posting one big fanfic every month, then posting 2-3 shorter fics in the following weeks. I'm so not normal about this pair of dentures, lmao. Hope you enjoyed! Next fic should be a Tenna one :D