#kingcreativityau

“What do you want King?” Logan demanded, stepping forward to shield Janus and the injured Patton from King’s sight, trying to gage Virgil’s condition from his position. He seemed to be sleeping, though it didn’t look like a very restful sleep. King looked down on the three of them with a bemused smile. Behind him, Virgil whimpered.

Virgil wandered through a white fog. “Hello? Anybody there? Patton? Logan? Roman? Remus…” he got more and more afraid. And finally, he was desperate enough to call out for the last person he wanted to rely on. “Janus!!!”

He heard the hollow sound of wood against wood. He turned and jumped back for a small figure backing up as a taller one advanced on him. It was a younger him sparring with king, the real king.

He remembered this. King was teaching him to sword fight.

As he watched the scenery got more detailed. A hillside with a tree at the center.

His younger self looked tense, trying his best to hold his ground. King meanwhile was grinning playfully. A fond look in his eyes. As though Virgil’s earnest efforts were endearing to him.

Then suddenly he made a maneuver and Virgil's eyes lit up, literally. Virgil recalled this moment now. He'd recognized the movement and his instincts kicked in. He dodged the strike and took advantage of he moment kings grip would relax to knock the blade to the side with all his might. Then he swiftly pointed his own sword at kings chest, eyes wide with surprise.

King was astonished for a moment. Now that Virgil was not distracted by the emotions of the moment, he saw King’s face go from astonished to mischievous before he tensed up, eyes widening. He could also see that his attention had shifted to something above Virgil. Little him couldn't see it, but when Virgil looked up he saw a glaring yellow snake curled up on a tree branch. Normally snakes don't glare. But Janus was an exception.

Why did he seem so angry to see King and Virgil spar?

Then king let himself fall down pleading for mercy and promising to surrender, praising Virgil's skills and so on. Virgil was rather flustered at the time even as he laughed at king's antics. He had not known how to respond to king being so humble. He'd expected him to tell him it was a lucky strike or that he hadn't been fighting for real.

Now he was looking at the snake crawling deeper into the foliage, seething quietly.

Little him giggled. “King, stop being silly. Get up. I got lucky,” he insisted.

King sat up again, smiling.

“You are getting good little knight,” he declared proudly.

Little Virgil, fear, shook his head stubbornly, his thoughts already convincing him that he'd never be good enough to deserve to be a knight.

Virgil looked back at his younger self. This next bit was one of his favorite memories of King.

The smaller boy was pulled out of his spiral by a hand ruffling his hair. “I mean it. You know I’d never lie to you,” King said as he smoothed out Fear’s hair again. Fear smiled timidly as he pushed off King’s hand and tried to get his hair back the way he liked it himself. “I guess,” he allowed. “And why is that?” King insisted. Fear looked up at King, with trust and love and admiration. “Because friends don’t lie to each other.” King nodded and got up. “Exactly,” he said as he dusted himself off. “I count on you to tell me the truth, and you can count on me to do the same, even if we might not like hearing it,” he said. Fear nodded and followed King as he moved them away from their practice spot. Virgil however stayed behind. Throughout the exchange he had been aware of Janus softly hissing in anger in the treetop during the exchange. Now he saw King looking back with narrowed eyes as he led Fear away. When they were out of sight, Virgil wanted to look up and see how Janus was doing, but the tree and the hilltop were gone. “Deceit could never accept that you had earned my favor, my friendship or affection,” the deeper, scarier voice of the king Virgil had fought earlier whispered in his ears. “He was envious of our bond. He hated you for it. And then suddenly, when you are alone and vulnerable, he is there to comfort you? Have you never wondered why he went from barely looking at you to refusing to leave your side after I left? He saw an opportunity in you. That’s all he cares about. Chances to improve his own circumstances.”

Virgil shook his head. Things changed. Janus made mistakes… But he cared about Thomas. He cared about them all, he just messed up. Virgil messed up too. And he was angry with Janus sure. He’d hurt Roman… He… He was the reason Roman and Remus were gone now… No. He could not think like that. That’s what this guy wanted.

His surroundings shifted. And he was elated to see Remus playing with a rat. “Remus!” he exclaimed rushing forward but when he tried to grab his friend, his hand passed through. No… he was still in this weird dream. This wasn’t Remus, this was Duke. Back from when they were kids. Duke was sitting underneath the willow tree. “I don’t understand.” Virgil whirled around as he heard that familiar drawl. Deceit was tending to some wilting branches. He was always ridiculously precise in maintaining it in just the right condition. “You and Prince have been so… attached to Fear. Yet he seems so… well he seems like the last person either of you would enjoy being around. Considering how reluctant he can be to do mostly anything,” he mused and Virgil felt devastated. What was this about? “You’re kidding right? He is tons of fun to hang around!” Remus cackled. “He knows how to keep pops and teach off our backs, and he even asks me to help come up with deterrents to convince Thomas to stay safe. It’s not as fun as actually jumping from the stairs, but it makes daddy and doctor know-it-all appreciate my genius,” he chuckled as he started picking at some kind of unidentifiable ooze he’d summoned. “I see… But what about Prince? Does he truly enjoy having someone so… on edge around all the time? Doesn’t he spoil the mood?” Virgil shrunk back. Why… Why was Janus talking about him like that? Virgil had confided about these worries to him during his self-imposed banishment. Why would he…? “Oh snakey. Prince loves playing his hero even more than he likes it when Fretful protects him. Finding ways to calm him down and distract him when he needs to get out of his own head… He wears it like a damn badge,” Remus chuckled rolling his eyes, almost annoyed. “I can’t really help the worry wart like that… I usually make him… That’s why he split isn’t it? Because I was making it hard to be a good friend?” Remus said, almost sounding casual, but Virgil could hear that this really bothered him. Janus didn’t look up from his work. “Of course not. He was just under too much pressure for one side to handle. So he became two. Now will you gather the clippings for me? I want to make a compost,” he said, but it sounded to Virgil like he was lying. Not that Remus noticed. He didn’t know Janus well enough at the time to spot all his tells. Or the slight hints of anger and resentment that brewed beneath the surface. The voice returned, sending shivers down Virgil’s spine and making him cover his ears in a feeble attempt at blocking the sound. “He always hated Remus. Blamed him for all his troubles no matter how often that vermin showed him he loved him. He did a good job at hiding it though. Remus actually thought he might stand a chance at getting Janus’ affections in return,” the voice muttered, almost amused. “As for you… I told you he resented how close you were with creativity,” it pointed out. The world shifted and there was a knock on a door. A door to a regal room, though the lights were dimmed as the hour was late. Virgil saw himself napping in a corner. He had done so many times. Trying to stay up with Princey if he worked late to make sure he took care of himself. Usually he managed but sometimes his royal pain in his side cheated and hummed soothing songs under his breath as he made Virgil get increasingly more comfortable. The hypocrite. Roman opened the door and Janus was there. It looked like they were in their late teens now. “Deceit…” Roman said pleasantly, at this point the tension between them had almost completely subsided. “Virgil fell asleep I’m afraid. And I should probably follow his example soon. Is there something you needed terribly urgently? Or can it wait till morning?” Roman offered. Janus smiled that charming smile he always had when talking to Roman. The one Virgil now hated because he now knew it was meant to lower Princey’s defenses so he could more easily manipulate him when he needed to. He vaguely noted the slight flicker of nostalgia and mourning, but he was not in the mood to feel pity. Not after that last memory. Not knowing that this one would likely hurt in a similar way. “Of course, I won’t be long. I just wanted to check in. He’s needed some extra care since middle school,” he said smoothly. Roman’s smile became less effortless and he glanced back at Virgil’s sleeping form sadly. “Yes… He doesn’t easily allow it though,” he mused. Janus nodded solemnly. “You don’t need to take it all upon yourself your majesty. Taking care of him is becoming a fulltime job.” Virgil flinched. Did Janus truly see him as such a burden? “I’m sure Patton and Logan would be willing to help. And of course I would too. You should be allowed to focus on more urgent matters. Like helping Thomas fulfill his hopes and dreams. No one would blame you if you made that a priority. Least of all Virgil,” Janus said smoothly. Roman looked back at Janus with a chuckle. “Oh, it is not quite that bad dear serpentine solicitor,” he assured him. “Don’t get me wrong, you and the others are always welcome to assist, but…” Roman’s shoulders squared and his expression was warm. “He is my best friend. Why wouldn’t I want to look after him when he needs it? Besides, having him around is actually quite helpful a lot of the times. Even when we argue we make some sort of progress.” He made a bow. “Still I am grateful for your concern. I know Virgil would appreciate it as well. Now, I wish you good night,” he said. Janus bowed back with a smile. His shoulders more relaxed but a tension in his eyes. What in the heck was his deal!? Was he happy with that response or not? “Of course. Goodnight Prince Roman,” he offered. Roman chuckled a little before closing the door. He liked being addressed formally from time to time. It stroked his ego. Virgil used to think Janus did it so often to encourage Roman. To soothe him when he was feeling down on himself, which was often. But now… “Greedy, manipulative, possessive. Could never share very well could he? I bet he didn’t like to share you either. He would have liked to have a hold on both twins and you so he could rule the mindscape from behind the curtains. He always knew where the true power was to be found. He will come to you when you wake. Seek your support. Make you his puppet. Manipulate me through you,” the voice hissed. Virgil shook his head violently and stormed off. “Pat!?” he called out. Hoping the moral compass among them would be able to help him see the situation beyond his personal feelings for Janus. “Popstar? Please!” he begged not sure if he could be heard in any way. The scenery shifted. Virgil saw a smaller version of himself run off after a shadow bunny under the watchful eyes of King and Patton who were having a tea party. Which was basically how Patton used to have meetings with them to discuss Thomas’ progress.

“King, king! I did it!” Instinct called out as he stood in a little cloud of fading shadows. “Great job kiddo!” Morality smiled. “Excellent Instinct!” King agreed and Instinct beamed. Virgil relaxed. This was a good memory. Nothing bad could happen here. This were Patton and King. They didn’t have any secret bad feelings or thoughts about him. “Say, why don’t you go see Logic? He’s sorting out the things Thomas learned today. Maybe you can help figure out which ones are especially important,” Morality suggested. Instinct’s eyes widened. “Really? But… That’s… You don’t think I’ll mess up?” he asks nervously. “Of course not! You are the only one who is as precise as the nerd. You’ll do great!” King stated fondly. Instinct squared his shoulders, standing just a bit taller at the praise and nodded. “Okay! I won’t let you down!” he said bravely before running off. Virgil remembered this. He’d been so proud that King and Pops trusted him that much. “It is so cute how you two are together. He really looks up to you,” Morality smiled thoughtfully. King looked back. “Oh, well I suppose… I’ve been showing him the ropes and stuff,” he said a little nervously which confused Virgil. Why was he unsure of how Fear regarded him?

Morality laughed. “Oh, I appreciate the modesty King, but he clearly adores everything you do. You are like a big brother to him.”

Virgil found himself nodding his agreement. That was definitely an accurate way to describe how he felt about King.

King smiled, hopefully. “You truly think so?” he wondered. King knew how Thomas adored his older brothers. Had the idea that Virgil felt similar really been that impactful?

“Absolutely. And I must say the responsibility suits you,” Morality added, almost as an afterthought.

King and Virgil looked up at Morality curiously.

“What do you mean?” King asked.

“Oh you know. Like mom and dad say, Thomas needs to set a good example for Shea. Being a good big brother is a super big responsibility,” Morality explained as he held up a plate. “Cookie?” he added, seemingly oblivious to a now thoughtful King who accepted the offered treat. “Yes, thank you,” he said absently as he bit down, staring in the direction Instinct had ran off to.

“Using your admiration for me to make me keep myself in check… I am quite impressed actually. Almost as impressed as with how he used the twins' insecurities to manipulate you.”

Virgil, whirled around trying to catch the source of the voice but was instead faced with the young twins staring at Logic and Morality whispering in the background.

Logic nodded and walked off. Duke sprinted forwards followed by Prince who barely kept his brother from smashing into Morality.

“Oh my! Hi kiddos. Sorry about that. Just some boring grownup stuff,” Morality laughed uncomfortably. Virgil was fairly certain that he picked that up from Thomas’ parents. They used to do something similar when they wanted to protect Thomas from their unpleasant conversations. “Was it about Dark and scaredy?” Duke asked bluntly. Prince nudged him and made a bow. “Apologies for Duke’s forwardness. We were merely wondering since… Well Logic made it seem as though he’d come back around soon, but it’s been days and we still didn’t get to say hi. Is everything alright?” he asked a bit more politely. Morality sighed and looked in the direction of the tree. “I don’t know… Logic and I used to be able to calm him down a bit, but… When it got this bad… Oh, I wish I knew how he did it,” he muttered before shaking his head and forcing a smile for the twins. “Never you two mind that. How about you two think of a fun game for Thomas to play today? Maybe he can play a bit with Shea?” he suggested. “Just think about it alright?” he said as he walked off in the direction Logic left. The twins watched him leave, both their minds going in high gear. “What was that about?” Duke wondered. Prince huffed. “Isn’t it obvious?” he asked as he turned towards his brother. “He’s saying He used to cheer Fear up when the others couldn’t. So now it’s our job, but they think we can’t do it,” he states, offended. “What!? Why can’t we?” Duke asked, also insulted by the notion. “Of course we can. He’s our friend… I’m pretty sure. So of course we can. Come on. Let’s fix this mess so we can all move on,” Prince announced as he charged forward a worried frown on his face he didn’t want to show his brother. Oh, no Prince… Had he been carrying that burden for that long?

Virgil wanted to charge after him but the scene already shifted and Prince and Duke were waving Fear of after a good day, a few weeks later, after Fear reconciled with the others. “Well done boys! I’m so proud of you!” Morality exclaimed as he ran in to give the two a hug. Duke held up his arms, leaning away. Prince gladly accepted the gesture, though there was a bit of a nervous smile on his lips. A bit awkward, as though he was not sure how to feel about the praise just yet. “Well, it was just a simple game really. Nothing too spectacular. Just you wait until you see the dream we have in store for tonight,” he assured Morality as he gently pushed him back to give both his brother and himself some room to breathe. Morality giggled. “I was talking about getting Fear away from that nasty border. I was terribly worried. He was talking nonsense about us being better off without him and I worried he might try to prove his point…” Morality shook his head. “Anyway, you two made sure that didn’t happen. I should’ve known you could do it. Sorry for not asking you to help sooner. I worried that it might upset him more, but turns out talking to creativity is exactly what he needed after all. Some things never change I suppose. Now have a fun night you two, see you in the morning!” he grinned, rattling off his explanation before leaving. Prince was frowning. “It… Wasn’t that serious… Was it? He wouldn’t… He cares too much about keeping Thomas safe… Right?” he asked nervously. Duke shrugged. “Does it matter? As long as he has us he’s not going to think about it ever again. Daddy said so himself.” Oh god no! They didn’t… Did they blame themselves for him ducking out? Virgil shook his head. No. No he… They knew it was more complicated than that… “So thoughtless of the responsibilities he put on the shoulders of basically newborn sides. Not very fatherly was he?” The dark king voice mused. Virgil pulled at his hair trying to think. Trying to move past his guilt, past his own memories of Patton encouraging him to protect King and the twins from dangerous games. He didn’t mean it like that… Never… Right? “Logan, Logan please,” he whispered hopelessly. Logan always knew how to put things in perspective. He was objective… Surely he hadn’t done something terrible without Virgil realizing… Right? “Creativity.” Virgil looked up as he recognized the voice of Logic. He and King were at a Cliffside in dreamland. “What are you doing here Logic? This is my land. Must you bother me here too?” King huffed, annoyed at being disturbed in his safe place. “I was made aware that Fear turned in for the night and Morality is of to tuck in his stuffed animals. So it seemed an opportune moment to speak to you privately,” Logic explained. King frowned. “About?” he asked. “The outbursts. They are increasingly more disturbing to Thomas’ state of mind. Making all of our jobs more taxing. Deceit has been working overtime to cover for them, this cannot continue for much longer,” Logic explained. Virgil flinched at the mention of the outbursts. He never liked them all that much since they seemed to come out of nowhere. He hadn’t gotten the time to get used to them before… He would’ve gotten used to them though. He was certain of it. In time, he got used to Remus. Sort of. Sure he needed a break every once in a while but he needed a break from most anyone at one point or another. The others were overwhelming at times. Even Logan. “And why would I care if that… That traitor has to put in some effort? I say let him earn his place in the mindscape. Or is this a favor you owe him? He helps you cripple me and you put in a good word on his behalf?” King scoffed. Virgil frowned. What was that about? He never heard anything about this. Betrayal? Crippling one another? That wasn’t how they did things… Or, he didn’t think so… But it was a little how Janus had been acting… And if he looked at these memories… It wasn’t quite as severe as King made it sound but… No. He couldn’t think like that. This… This thing was trying to divide and conquer. If Virgil started doubting the others… No they needed him to stay strong. To help them get the twins back from whatever that thing had done to them. It looked like king and talked like him to distract him, to weaken him. And it was working better than Virgil wanted it to, considering he looked and sounded so different. So, no. He was not going to let this thing manipulate him anymore. He’d sit this, whatever it was out, and then he’d wake up and if any of the others were harmed at all, he’d kick that bastard to the edge of the mind. “It is merely in Thomas’ interest, I assure you. That… Coup, to use your preferred vocabulary, was nothing personal. I would not have taken those steps if it was not necessary in order for Thomas to function properly in school. And I would not have been able to get Deceit’s help if I had not convinced him with objective facts that you needed to allow the rest of us more sway than you did. I do acknowledge that it seems that between Morality and especially Fear’s efforts that a less drastic method might have worked. For that, I suppose an apology should be issued. I did not realize you still felt strongly about that incident. If I did I would have sought to assure you of my intentions earlier,” Logic stated calmly. Virgil relaxed a little. Logan had learned from whatever this coup was. And he never intended it in a bad way. Virgil could kind of get how he might’ve thought that King would only listen to brute strength at one point in time. Back in those days, Virgil needed to be loud to get his attention too sometimes. It was a mistake. They’d been young. He was not going to let this get to him. King shrugged. “Thank you. I suppose,” he said before turning away, trying to dismiss Logic from his domain. “Creativity. We still must talk about the issue at hand. It seems that you won’t consider it for Deceit’s sake, but you won’t be able to keep convincing Morality that you are only joking around when these things occur. And if Thomas actually follows through with one of those type of suggestions, he might get in trouble. It might impede his mental, physical or emotional wellbeing,” Logic listed. King rolled his eyes. “They are just ideas. You are exaggerating,” he said dismissively. Logic narrowed his eyes. “What about Fear? Will you consider how these suggestions affect him?” he pointed out. No… No. Logan was not the reason… He couldn’t be the reason right? “Fear… He understands. He is not upset about them. He knows I don’t. He knows I’d never insist on anything that might hurt Thomas,” King said, though less decisive. “He does seem to be willing to push himself to be more tolerable when it comes to you. But that does not take away the emotional strain it clearly has on him. You distance yourself from Deceit, but you are quite adept at convincing yourself that there is no problem when the opposite is quite obviously true,” Logic insisted. He took in a deep breath. “Just give it some consideration. If for no other reason, then for Fear’s sake. Morality and I will gladly help you figure something out should you come to your senses,” he said before walking away. “For someone who claims not to care much for emotions, he sure knows how to hit where it hurts,” the voice mused. Virgil felt tears fall down his cheeks. He blinked and the scene changed. The twins were bowed over a project together, they looked young. Most likely still newly formed. “Do you two have a moment?” The twins looked up to see Logic approach them. “Sure teach. Something wrong?” Prince wondered. “Yeah! We’re working on a fun game for Creepy Cookie! So make it snappy!” Duke grinned excitedly.

Logic cocked his head and made a note in his notepad. “I see. I have been taking inventory of the changes in the mind after the split,” Logic did not take note of the twins flinching as he said that. “I have made all observations I can on my own. But I do need some input from the two of you for a complete dataset,” he explained. The twins looked at one another and nodded. “Well, okay. If you say it’s important. Will it take long?” Prince asked. Logic shook his head. “It really shouldn’t. I just have a few questions pertaining to what I already observed really. First… Neither of you, is king. Correct?” he asked. The twins both narrowed their eyes. “No,” they said in unison. Virgil could tell they were already done with this conversation. But Logic was oblivious. “But you both seem to share a care for Thomas’ wellbeing and desire a friendship with Fear. Correct?” he continued.

They both nodded. “He Is our friend,” Prince clarified. Logic nodded. “It certainly would seem so. Even before properly talking to you he seemed mainly concerned with your wellbeing. I would like for you both to consider that going forward. He seems prone to extreme reactions when it comes to Creativity… Quite interesting indeed. It seems that certain aspects were too integrated with his whole being to be completely separated from either of you. That is perhaps what caused this effect,” he muttered absently. “When we formed…You said we were unexpected…” Prince started. “What did you expect?” Duke finished. Logic looked up. “The idea was for King to separate the thoughts that were impeding to his role in Thomas’ life from his own being and for us to deal with them accordingly.” Duke flinched and Prince instinctively stepped in front of his brother.

“You wanna get rid of me?” the green twin asked. “No. That would be preposterous. You are a full side. This can only mean that you have functions that are essential to Thomas, even if it is not clear to us what those functions are. My guess is that King tried to cut out too much, or was uncertain what parts were unnecessary. He was too much in a hurry I believe. He should not have undergone the process while in distress. But perhaps, that too was a necessary part of Thomas growing up. Time will tell I suppose,” Logic mused. Then he looked up. “I see that this seems to be a distressing topic. If you will bear with me for a moment more, then you may seek out Fear to recover.” Prince and Duke frowned but nodded. “Okay…” Prince said slowly. “I was initially expecting some sort of repulse reaction between you two, considering the original intent of the split. But you seem rather close. Do you experience a desire to remerge?” he asked. Virgil wasn’t sure what to make of the question. Was there a point? Did Logic have a theory? Was he worried? Or hopeful? The twins looked at each other and took a step apart. “No. Should we?” Prince said hesitantly.

Logic shook his head. “No, it just confirms that this is a necessary inevitable part of Thomas growing up. This should put any worries about the situation to rest. Until next time,” he bid.

“Wait a minute!” Prince called out. Logic looked back.

“You said… What did you mean we should recover with Fear? Isn’t it our job to comfort him when He’s upset?” he asked.

Logic nodded. “Yes. In the past it has been shown to be an equal exchange though. Creativity and Fear seem to both stimulate and stabilize each other’s functions. In a much stronger capacity than I or Morality can… Though I suppose we are that stabilizing force for one another. Hm…” Logic turned and walked away scribbling away. Possibly to quantify everyone’s effect on the other’s.

Prince and Duke looked at one another upset a bit nervous, but assured at the same time.

“Stop it,” Virgil sobbed as he fell to his knees. “I’m sorry, I’m sorry okay! I know! I should’ve done better! I’m sorry I let you guys down. I’m sorry,” he sobbed.

“Oh, Fear. That is not at all what I was trying to show you,” the voice that was and wasn’t King whispered comfortingly. And when Virgil looked up he saw glimpses of his memories with king all around. King was smiling and laughing in every single one of them.

“I was never angry with you,” the voice assured him. “And neither where they.”

Now Virgil saw Roman and Remus. Laughing with him as they played pranks or watched movies. Roman smiling a bit sheepishly as Virgil scolded him while patching him up after an adventure.

Remus snickering as Virgil tried to be mad at him for a honestly funny prank.

“You were the one person who never wanted us to be anything other than who we were.” The voice added and Virgil was faced with an image of Fear struggling in Morality’s grip, tears streaming down his face. And one of himself, not to long ago. Reaching out and pleading.

“We can make things right. Together we can make it so they never hurt us or Thomas again,” the voice whispered dangerously. Virgil shook his head. “No… This isn’t right… Leave me alone!” he screamed and then he shot up, tears down his cheeks and looking around.

A massive dark figure turned to him in surprise, what remained of Virgil’s family standing on the other side. He was awake. And he was still in time to protect them.

KAU

King was trying to calm his mind. Or rather his heart. For where his mind was a tranquil palace where only he reigned, it was his heart where the remnants of his years apart spoke the loudest. As he considered his anger for Deciet, there was a part of him that was defensive of him, upset at his angry outbursts. If he allowed himself to think about his past, and possibly still lingering, feelings for him, there was recoil in him. He wasn’t sure if this was due to Roman’s recent experiences with him or Remus being jealous. Remus had always suspected something played between them in the past. And perhaps part of him had hoped to be good enough for him if they fused. So thinking about his enemy/old flame, was only frustrating him more. Morality and Logic weren’t much better. He felt exceptionally conflicted about both. Part of him felt guilty for what he’d done. Though that part was distinctly not himself. No this was completely the Prince’s doing. All he’d wanted was to be good enough for Thomas and the others. He never wanted to scare or upset any of them. Which was disgusting to King. It was good that he was in charge now. He knew that Creativity shouldn’t have to please anyone except for Thomas. Then there was Anxiety. A side King had never had the chance to form his own opinion off. Though he’d hoped he’d be a new friend he could teach about the mindscape. And with time, he could probably make use out of him still. If he’d had the opportunity to prepare for his return, with knowledge of these echoes of feelings from his halves, he would’ve probably expected Anxiety to be the least complicated to think about. He didn’t have much of a personal opinion on him to conflict with the two sides. And considering Anxiety had been both a friend and a hindrance to both, he might’ve assumed that the mix of feelings would balance out to indifference. Leaving King some freedom to form his own relatively undisturbed opinion on the youngest side. But… Remus considered Anxiety his best friend. When things were good, they got along great. And Roman… Well, he’d hoped and dreamed about Thomas’ guardian quite often. As for King… he felt a fondness for the youngest of his disciples he supposed. It was kind of endearing how hard he tried to ‘get through to him’. His loyalty to the twins was slightly disarming at times. And it was so adorable to see him soften just a little whenever king showed him praise of any kind… He cringed as a sting of emotion shot through his heart that nearly shook him enough to doubt who he was in his mind. That… That was the tricky part. If these fond feelings were only caused by an echo of how the twins felt about him… Why would what remained of Roman feel so… Threatened, when he thought well of him? He understood that it got a bit agitated, protective even, when he plotted to use Anxiety. But why would he be upset over whatever echo of his feelings remained to inspire the briefest moments of fondness in him? Unless… It was he himself, separate from the twins he used to be, who had developed some sort of appreciation for the purple coded side? He thought on this for a moment. Anxiety had never looked at either of the twins in that cautiously relieved, almost happy or comforted way. That look was just for King. And it was more than a little disturbing that he felt a little smug about getting such a unique look all for himself. Did he… Was he growing fond of the little spider? If he was, then what should he do? He couldn’t let him find out. He was nowhere near confident enough in his hold on the manifestation of caution’s loyalty. Sure he seemed like he was starting to want his approval, but he was also still very warry of him. No. He had to sow more distrust towards the others within Anxiety’s mind before… Yes there it was. Prince upset at the thought of causing Anxiety harm. King rubbed his chest. “Would you rather they hurt him like they hurt us?” he asked aloud in an attempt to communicate with his inner voices. That made Prince shrink back. Contemplatively. “Sometimes the ends justify the means,” King insisted smoothly, hoping to push away the guilt while he was at it. Not his own guilt of course. He had no love left for any of those traitors. The feeling waned back to the background. Good. King took a deep breath and considered his options. He was due for another appearance. Can’t let the others get too comfortable. Besides… A flash of reluctantly curious mismatched eyes shot through his mind. He couldn’t let Anxiety go too long without a reminder of the enticing mystery that he presented. For anxiety was rooted in many adjacent feelings. He had a strong hold in excitement but also curiosity, the twin to worry that excitement was to panic. No wonder King had felt drawn to instinct even before he formed. With that thought he hummed a tune as he made his way through the mindscape. Dismissing the conflicting feelings in the depts. Of his core, certain that they would pass. And only he would remain.

But thinking of King reminded Patton of the last time he saw him. Of holding Virgil while he pleaded for them to stop. Which reminded him that Virgil had been here with him. Patton bowed his head and tried to look for the hooded side. There, just a bit behind king. He seemed unconscious though. He had been closer to the twins than Patton. The blast must’ve hit him harder. He had to do something. He hadn’t been able to help Roman, but maybe he could still find a way to do right by King. “There you go,” King grinned with a frightening sort of amusement. “Bow before the king.” Patton looked up, feeling shivers overtake him. He couldn’t bring himself to stand up. Didn’t dare to look back to Virgil and draw attention towards him. He had no clue how King would response to seeing Virgil. They had been friends… But Virgil had been worried King would be upset if he knew he liked the twins. Patton used to be certain that King would be delighted to know that Virgil wasn’t left without his friendship entirely, that their bond persevered even if in a different form… But he wasn’t sure about this king. He didn’t feel like the one he’d known. So he was left to watch as King swung his sword away from him and rested it over his shoulders. “Morality,” he grinned, Patton felt strangely hurt by the use of his title. It had been a while since anyone used it, not counting the videos. “So… inconspicuous.” His voice was low, a soft caress, but with an edge that kept it from being soothing. There was something, an almost childlike playfulness to it. But it lacked the innocence to quite make it there. “And here I thought, like a fool,” Patton cringed at the hint of a growl that stressed the last word. “that Logic would take my place. But no…” King made an exaggerated bow, “Here’s the real ruler of the mindscape.” Patton was astonished. Taking King’s place? Did he really think anyone could fill the void that was left behind when he split? Even the twins… They made their own place in their family, but King was always missed. And ruler? Patton never wanted to rule anyone. They worked together as well as they could. If he could just get king to see that. To understand. King wasn’t very interested in listening though. Patton barely could get through two sentences before a torturous sound of nails on steel assaulted his eardrums. But he powered through. He had to try. Even if thinking was nearly impossible. King was… well, he seemed upset, but it was also like he was enjoying himself a lot. Which was so odd. Even Remus on his worst days didn’t take delight in the suffering of his fellow sides. He found unpleasantness fascinating. But he usually apologized when his experiments caused distress. He didn’t plan things out enough to be truly malicious. He just followed whatever curiosity had his attention and ran it to it’s extreme. If this was Remus, Patton would think that the trouble maker merely found himself pondering what nails on steel would sound like and tested it out right away with no other motivation than to satisfy his curiosity. King though… this king… Surely Patton misunderstood. No it was Remus’ impulsive fascination shining through. Or at least… He hoped it was. “I’m so happy to see you,” Patton smiled nervously. And it wasn’t a lie. He had missed king. And though he was different, having him here was something he’d often wished for. Not that he ever wished the twins gone… But there were many things he wanted to tell him.

And part of him was relieved that king wasn’t as gone as they’d thought he was. And surely… That meant the twins weren’t gone either? Maybe they could have the best of both worlds? Sometimes their old friend the king and sometimes the twins. Everyone happy. “Are you sure?” King wondered and Patton’s smile fell as he saw unmistakable cruelty in king’s smile. “Last time I checked I was too… Corrupted for your liking,” he recounted. Patton felt guilt overtake his heart. He was right. Patton hadn’t known at the time. Hadn’t understood Remus. Even when he formed Patton hadn’t quite known what to do with the… odd twin as he’d put it at the time. It had taken Virgil, who’d embraced both twins as being part of the king he loved, and a lot of growing up on his part to understand that Remus too had his place and role. “That…” There had to be a way he could make king see that he doesn’t think like that anymore. The morality who said those things was a child and that child grew up. Though he clearly still had some growing to do, given recent events. “I want you to know that I don’t…” “Hush,” King said soothingly. “It’s in the past now.” Patton could barely believe his ears. Could it truly be that King wanted to start fresh? Had he just been teasing? Sadly, those hopes were quickly shattered. “I’m not here to make up with anyone,” King grinned. “I’m here to set things right again.” Patton felt an invisible force jerk him forward by his cardigan. In a second it was grabbed tightly by King who was holding him up, glaring at him. “And you are standing in my way,” he growled before tossing him to the ground. Patton skidded for a few feet before he was able to get up to his knees again. King was standing above him in a flash. Patton shrunk in on himself scared of what he would do next.

A gasp drew both his and king’s attention. Patton looked up. Virgil. He was awake and staring up at the king in horror. No… Patton had to find a way to protect him. King was dangerous right now. And this was Patton’s fault anyway. No one else should have to face his wrath. “Ah Fear,” King said in a surprisingly pleasant tone. No frightening undertones, no harshness. “How are you doing my old friend?” he wondered. Virgil shifted his gaze to Patton who tried to signal him to run. Warn the others. Be anywhere that was not here. “Fear?” King repeated, waiting for a reaction. Virgil looked up at him, took a deep breath and sank into the floor, appearing right besides Patton. “Virgil?” Patton gasped. “I’ve got you Pat,” he assured him as he took a hold of him. “I’ll take care of things here. Don’t you worry.” And then Patton felt himself sink to the floor. Seconds later they came back up. Before Patton could orient himself he heard voices. “Patton?” That was Logan. “Virgil, what happened?” Janus asked perplexed. “I don’t have time to explain. I’ll take care of it.” “Virgil no!” Patton pleaded. “He said he didn’t want to make up with anyone. I tried, but he doesn’t want to listen,” he told him. “I didn’t say I was going to talk to him,” Virgil muttered before disappearing again.

King was smirking amused as he waited for Fear to return. He remembered the trick he’d used through the memories of Roman and Remus. Fear would move through the shadows when he needed to get to them quickly, but something, usually a nightmare or monster was blocking his path. King could respect that Fear wanted to talk in private. He probably should have prioritized Fear over Morality. He’d wanted to make sure that the others wouldn’t be able to mess with him or Fear again. But the reunion should have been first. Poor Fear had been living in guilt and regret for years over what happened. It was cruel to let him think he was in any way responsible for even a moment longer than necessary. So King decided to reassure Fear first and deal with the others after. Then they could establish the new order in the mindscape together. The king and his royal knight. Suddenly he felt a presence. He turned around. Fear was back. He looked upset though… Didn’t he recognize him? Morality seemed to have no problem telling who he was earlier. But maybe Fear had hit his head after the blast? “Fear, it is okay. It’s me. King,” King assured him with a smile. “Shut Up!” Fear commanded, black shadows lifting from the ground. Fear held out a hand and materialized a scythe. King was surprised at that. Fear spun his weapon a few times while circling around King slowly. He brought he blade up and studied it. “Remus loved this thing. He was always upset that I wouldn’t bring it out for sparring matches…” he mused. “Guess you’re about to find out why.” Fear’s tempest voice growled as his eyes clouded over with darkness and he got ready in a fighting position. “Fear, there is no need. I am not the enemy here. We’re friends. Don’t you remember?” he said gently. “Shut up. If you were my friend you’d call me by my name. Or you’d have asked if I’m okay. Even Remus would have made sure I didn’t get injured after getting blasted like that. And the King I remember would have definitely dragged me to someone to get me a proper checkup. You are a mockery of everything they were. Some kind of sick manifestation of my grief. But I won’t let you fester. I will fix this. For Thomas. For the twins. For everyone,” he hissed before charging. King effortlessly avoided the attack. He knew Fear could do better than that. Even without the twins’ memories he had seen him do better. So either he was doing poorly on purpose or he was too emotional to think clearly. King tried to figure it out. Clearly Fear had not lost his memory. He had a point though. “I’m sorry you got hit. They didn’t know what was going to happen or they would have made sure you were out of range,” he assured Fear. The shorter side was dearly loved by his parts. King was glad for that. But now that love was not divided or diluted by misplaced feelings or loyalty to anyone other than Thomas. “Don’t you dare talk about them!” Fear growled as he charged in again. This time he almost hit King, not with his scythe, but with the shadows that struck at him after. Fear had never weaponized his shadows before. Not while any form of him had been watching at least. “Nice move,” King acknowledged impressed. A creative application of the power he had been given and had now mastered so thoroughly that King didn’t think he could take it away without hurting the side. It was part of him at this point. “I’ll show you nice moves,” Fear growled. There were tears in his eyes, and a fire about him. He was truly upset. Sad and angry. The brothers had broken their promise, King supposed. “You cannot be angry at me for their actions Fear…” “That’s not my name!” Fear shouted, shadows flaring and shooting forwards, actually hitting King in the chest, forcing him a few steps back. “I refuse to call you Anxiety. You never liked that name,” he insisted. He didn’t care about the title personally, but he remembered how Fear would use that name as if it were a curse. Fear let out a hollow laughter. “I don’t see why I even bother. You won’t be around long enough for it to matter. Now.” he readied his weapon again. “Give me my friends back!” Fear charged and King avoided him snapping his fingers. White clouds flooded the scenery and King watched as Fear was grappled by a grown version of Morality. “What is happening? What are you doing!” he demanded the tears finally spilling over. The familiarity of this situation clearly upsetting him even more. The onyx eyes now had a flame of violet in them that would frighten King if he didn’t know that Fear didn’t truly wish to harm him. He had no doubt that he would’ve done so by now if that were the case. He couldn’t. Not even if he thought he had to. Which was a comfort. The others had not completely poisoned him it seemed. “Refreshing your memory,” King offered as in front of them a memory of himself, Logic and Deceit appeared. The latter two, in the forms King pulled from the twins’ memories, were pulling a sobbing young King apart. “No! Stop it! That… No!” Fear pleaded horrified, trying to look away but the Morality wouldn’t let him. He whispered something in Fear’s ear. King hadn’t heard what was said that day. Preoccupied as he had been with falling apart. But he had understood that Fear was trying to stop them. To save him. Surely, Fear would want him back. “That’s not… It didn’t happen that way. Stop it!” Fear pleaded, his tears becoming ink black, it was a beautifully haunting sight in combination with his blackened eyes. “Not in that moment… But it might as well have. You and I were always a team. They were fearful of the power we could wield together Fear. And they should be,” King growled. “If you think I’ll betray my friends, hurt Thomas, for you, then you are delusional. Now let me go and fight me you coward!” the younger side demanded, grief turning to anger. King sighed and dropped the spell. Fear stumbled a few steps before turning to King’s retreating form and charging. Sensing that Fear was really not going to calm down and see reason, King snapped his fingers. In an instant Fear stopped moving, his eyes going back to normal before shutting. King turned, shot forward and caught him before he could fall to the ground. He lifted him up bridal style, making him curl against his chest. “I’m sorry old friend. But you seem to have forgotten who it was that hurt us,” he mused softly. “Do not fret. You’ll remember soon. And by then, I’ll have fixed everything,” he promised as he carried him away.

“How can King be back?” Logan asked perplexed. “Thomas has outgrown that mentality decades ago. He shouldn’t even be a memory to him anymore!?”

“And the twins are gone? They really… I didn’t think they’d do that to Virgil. They saw what it did to him to lose King,” Janus frowned.

“But in their mind… They would be giving him King back… They didn’t think that King would be this different, I’m sure,” Patton offered weakly.

“But Virgil needs our help. He can’t take King on by himself, not when he’s exhausted and upset,” Patton exclaimed.

“You think King would harm him?” Logan wonders.

“He’s always been protective of the little spider,” Janus nods.

“But Virgil is going to fight him! There is no telling how King will react to that. I barely said anything to him and look what happened,” Patton gestured to his disheveled appearance.

Logan and Janus exchanged a worried look. Patton had a point. If Virgil came across as an enemy…

“Why hello everyone,” a low voice purred, making the gathered sides jump in surprise. They turned and saw King with Virgil in his arms. The smaller side looked like he’d been through one of the worst episodes anyone had ever seen him go through.

“Virgil!” Patton exclaimed distraught, barely held back by Logan and a distressed Janus.

King chuckled as a fainting couch appeared besides him. He laid Virgil’s limp form down and turned to the gathered audience. “He is resting and reflecting. Don’t you worry,” he informed them as he righted himself.

“Now…” he grinned deviously. “Let’s have some fun.”

KAU

The door to the commons closed and Remus perked up. Scaredy cat was back! “Sooo… How did it go?” he grinned. Roman had given Thomas an idea the cautious side had not liked so he’d gone up to yell at him for a bit. “We’re still going… But we’ll be prepared… I think,” his friend sighed as he walked over and dropped, face first on the floor. “Aw, did you finally kiss and make up?” Remus grinned. Virgil groaned. “As if he’d touch me with a ten foot pole,” he huffed as he turned on his back. “But that’s fine. As long as he is safe. I can deal with it.” Remus quirked his brow. “Say it a few more times and you might actually believe that,” he scoffed. Virgil glared at him. “You are one to talk.” He looked around. “Did J get fed up with you for the day already?” he wondered. Remus pretended that didn’t sting, but from the way his buddy cringed he could tell he wasn’t doing a stellar job. “Sorry man… I… I shouldn’t have done that… It’s a dumb defense mechanism you know that right?” he said in a softer tone. Remus shrugged. “Are we going to watch horror movies or what?” he asked dismissively. Virgil sighed and got settled in with him. “It’s kind of weird isn’t it?” he asked as Remus tried to pick the grossest movie he could think off. Thomas might have some weird nightmares, but that was fine. “Careful Virgie. I can think of many weird things that’ll put these movies to shame,” he grinned. Virgil chuckled. “Seriously though. Of all sides to be crushing on someone they can’t have… It’s us. It’s such a sappy thing to be. And it happened to the two who are most averse to sappy things.” “Speak for yourself I…” “Not the kind of sappy I meant!” Virgil hurried. “You know. Roman’s brand of sappy. He’d love to have someone hopelessly pine for him. Ugh… Now I’m making myself nauseous.” Remus giggled as he imagined Virgil getting sick. But that laughter died out as he thought of his own hopeless crush. “Well, J is part of the club too,” he offered. Virgil struggled with his expression for a moment, but eventually relented and smiled a little at that. “You think?” he asked carefully. “Back when me and Romie still talked on occasion, he told me he just… Couldn’t stand him. Said he was all mine if I wanted him. He won’t refuse a complement no matter who gives it, but if Snakey comes too close, Prince Charming gets ready to slay in the non-gay way.” Virgil let out a sigh. “Well… That’s… I mean that sucks for him. Roman has at least never pulled his sword on me,” he mused. “Yup! I think he secretly likes fighting with you. Maybe it’s his kink?” Remus suggested, getting a pillow to the face. “Don’t be gross!” Virgil laughed. “Aaaw! But that’s my whole thing!” Remus whined. The movie was forgotten as the two broke out into a pillow fight that bled into the imagination and got a lot more violent without being less friendly. King came back to the present. Focused on Remus’ heartache for now, something he was far more comfortable with. He’d known that his… Lingering feelings for Deceit had been confined to the lesser loved twin. And instead of being happy that there was still any positive attachment left to speak of and treasure it, Denial had dismissed it and longed for what was not his. The snake had wanted all. Both twins, and the young side who should have been King’s loyal protector. And in his greed, he now had nothing left. How had that started again exactly…? Remus was pretending to play with some goo of uncertain origin while Janus was pacing the room. Virgil had been spending more and more time upstairs lately. And Remus was happy for him. Last week he’d been kind of dissing J’s job though. And now he was having a kinda friendly argument with Roman about Disney. An argument that was drawing to a close. He could hear Virgil come down the stair humming “When you wish upon a star,” under his breath. He’d had a moment to connect with Roman, to show that they weren’t that different after all. A glimpse in what it might be like if Roman and him were on friendlier terms. “What do you think you’re doing?” Janus hissed. Virgil froze and looked up, his good mood gone. “I was just messing with Princey for a bit. The usual,” he shrugged. “Was that what that was?! Because to us it looked like you were cozying up to Them. Again!” Virgil cringed, but his jaw set and he looked up at Janus defiantly. “And what if I was? I’m not one of you anymore anyway!” he stated firmly. This got both of their attention. “What is that supposed to mean?” Janus demanded. “I mean that this” he gestured to their part of the mindscape. “is supposed to be for sides that are not acknowledged by Thomas. I get plenty acknowledgement I’d say. I have been for years. Give me one reason why I shouldn’t just move up?” he demanded. “Don’t be ridiculous. You think they actually want you up there? One half decent conversation with the prince and you think you are one of Them?” Virgil rolled his eyes. “I’m not stupid. I know they tolerate me at best. But at least with them I know where I stand! I don’t have to worry about every word said, every gesture made!” he pointed out. Janus did not like hearing that. Virgil didn’t care. “Whatever. If you look for me, I’ll be in my room. Don’t look for me.” And then he left. Remus got up. “Hey… Snakeyface?” Janus cringed at the sound of his voice. “V didn’t mean that right? He’s not going to leave us… Right?” he asked. Janus looked at him and smiled. “Of course not. It was an empty threat. If it wasn’t I would be with him right now making sure that he didn’t. I’m not losing anyone I care about to those know it alls,” he said reassuringly before disappearing. Remus lingered. He knew why Janus was so mad. He never liked it when Virgil was around Roman, not even to argue. He saw what Remus knew. How close the younger side was to falling. Heck he might already be flat on the floor at this point. And Janus didn’t like it. Because Denial wanted Roman too? Because he feared Roman would break Virgil’s heart? A little bit of both? Remus wanted to believe that it was at least a little for the creepy crawler’s sake. But he feared that it was all because of unrequited feelings his slimy crush had for his brother. It was not fair. Remus needed to vent and he needed answers, so he popped up in Virgil’s room. “Leave me alone Remus. I’m not in the mood.” “Why do you like my brother more than me?” he asked. Virgil shot up with a frown. “Where does that nonsense come from?” he asked. “Everyone likes Roman more, obviously. But you and Snakey… You are like me. Why don’t you like me?” Virgil’s face fell. “Hey no, come on… I’m not good at… Heart to hearts, that’s not fair,” he insisted as he got up and lead Remus to his bed so the duke could sit and curl up to sulk. Virgil sat down beside him running a hand through his hair. “It’s not a matter of liking him more or anything. I like you differently. If that makes sense… Like… You’re the closest thing I have to a brother. We’ll fight. And I can’t stand the sight of you sometimes… But if J, or anyone ever hurts you. Like not in the way you think is fun. You best believe I’ll be the first in line to kick their butt.” Remus looked up and studied Virgil’s face. Finding no lie, and Anxiety was the worst liar among all of them except maybe for Patton. “And Roman… Well… You know better than anyone what’s going on there I think,” he said dismissively. “As for Jan… He’s… I don’t know Rem. He’s been like this for as long as I’ve known him. But I… Trust that he cares about you both. The way I’ve trusted that he cares about me… It’s one of the few things I knew when I formed. I gotta keep an eye on you two,” he playfully jabbed Remus in the side. “And Janus will help me.” Remus smiled. “You really think he cares?” he asked. “Yes… Now can we go back to you being gross and disturbing and me acting like I wish you didn’t exist? You know I hate getting all feelsy,” Virgil said dismissively. “Maybe you’d get some if you got feelsy,” Remus suggested, only half trying to get a rise out of Virgil. “There it is and now you can get out!” Virgil grinned as he started violently shoving the duke out of his room. “Aw come on Virgin! You know ya love me!” he cackled before getting a door slammed behind his butt. Once again King returned to the present. He knew what had followed. Anxiety’s self-esteem kept on being attacked by Deceit every time he spent time with the others and had any kind of positive experience. Every time Remus tried to cheer him up. Every time it got harder. And then… Anxiety was gone. And Deceit had been furious and bitter. He’d hated watching Roman try his best to make amends and getting closer to Anxiety in the process fearing that the feelings were not one sided anymore, if they’d ever been. Something deep within him stirred as he finally acknowledged this. A slumbering part of him wanting to awaken. A dream that could come true. The stirring faded soon however. He was stronger. He was the King. Still fully in control of parts that feared the outside too much to keep on trying. Poor Anxiety would be heartbroken once he realized that the prince and the duke were truly gone for good. His brother and the man he adored, both no longer part of the mindscape as themselves. But maybe, his care for the twins could translate to loyalty to the king. If king could make him understand that he was not to blame for the twins fusing. He was simply the result. It would be a long, delicate process. Anxiety could not be given the impression that King held a soft spot for him. He’d have to maintain a strict hold on the rules of their interactions. And he could never hesitate to discipline. He could not risk it. Never again. Curiosity got to him and so he ventured into the mind scape, unnoticed and unbothered. Soon he found where his minister was currently sitting, once again holding little Patton. “I keep thinking… What if I’d told him? Would he have stayed? Or would he have ran even faster? What if I had checked up on Remus? What if… Ow!” The toddler pulled Anxiety’s hair. “Right. No use is it…? Still… Do you think… Like I didn’t need him to love me back. But if he knew… If he knew that I’d do anything to protect him… Would he still have…?” “Why don’t you ask me?” King said with a chuckle. “Roman!?” Anxiety exclaimed as he jumped up and turned around, forgetting for a moment that it could not have been Roman talking for a second. “Oh…” his elated expression deflated. Hope dying from his eyes as he stepped back and bowed sadly. “Sorry your highness, I… Is there something you need?” he asked. He was a good student King had to hand it to him. Sure king could see the rebellious teen underneath the surface desperate to speak up. But Anxiety’s survival instincts were stronger and kept him from risking provocation again. Though… Perhaps if king threatened one of the others in his presence… He’d have to test that. He needed Anxiety to be loyal to him alone if he were ever to serve his purpose under his rule… Those were concerns for later though King took advantage of Anxiety’s averted gaze and grinned wickedly at a worried looking Morality before turning on the charm. He bowed down to be more at eye level with Anxiety as he spoke. “Nothing for me. But it seems as though you have questions on your mind I may be able to answer.” Morality squirmed in Anxiety’s grip, but he barely seemed to notice, simply adjusting his hold as he bit his lip and took in King’s expression. “You… You would?” he asked, a little frightened, but also hopeful. “I cannot promise you will like the answers, but yes,” he informed him. “You will tell him nothing!” someone hissed behind King. The regal side turned around with a smirk, a gleam of victory in his eyes. All Anxiety had seen was unhappy surprise before he turned around. Let Deceit remind Anxiety that he was not his friend. “And why ever not? If the boy wants answers to the questions that torment his heart? He confided quite a bit in Remus, the chance that this is something I do not know about already is nearly nonexistent. So why should he not know the truth?” he wondered innocently. Denial, flanked by a stern looking Logic set his jaw. “Because you will use it to hurt him. Somehow you will. That’s all you do to those who love you. You’re a selfish man King. We both know that.” King let out a laugh. “Don’t pretend you ever loved me. You loved the status being with me gave you maybe. And for that reason you desired the prince over the duke. Don’t begrudge him because he actually had claim to the prince’s affections,” he told him before he strode past him, cape flaring. Swiftly leaving the group behind. “W- Wait!” “Virgil no!” King glanced back. Anxiety had passed of Morality into Deceit’s arms and hurried after him. “You mean… Roman didn’t hate me?” he asked, his voice trembling. Scared of the truth and needing it so deeply that he risked going near possible danger. King almost felt sympathy. He remembered needing to hear those words. Not just as Roman or Remus. But back when he was weaker. When he wanted Deceit and Morality to love him. Anxiety had not yet learned that only Thomas’ love mattered. Morality had deceived him well with his famILY hoax. For that moment of kinship, King second guessed using Anxiety’s affections to sow more discord. But then again… It was really for the boy’s own good. He bowed again and gently stroked Anxiety’s hair. A gesture that was still not received with much enthusiasm, but it was tolerated. “A lack of hate was not the extent of his feelings. He thought quite highly of you. He never told you because he thought he had… Damaged his chances to have you return those affections beyond repair.” Not enough. Never enough. “Wha…Why would he think that?” Anxiety asked baffled. The thought clearly inconceivable to him. King let his eyes dart to the group behind Anxiety and back. “Why does anyone believe the ugly lies we tell ourselves?” he replied cryptically before turning and walking away again. “Wait!” King looked back curiously. “Yes?” he asked. “I know you say he is gone… But if any part of him is still in there… Tell him he is enough… He always has been and always will be… And… Tell Remus that I still mean it. He’s like a brother to me. And… And I’ll make things right. I’ll make Janus understand what he gave up by being an idiot. I should have done so sooner. I just… Didn’t think he wanted me to out him like that… I should have known that he’d never ask. I don’t care if they never come back… I’ll still do it.” And after a brisk bow he stormed off back to the others. King would love to see the aftermath of his little intervention. But he had other things to consider. Who knows? Maybe soon his minister would come to vent his troubled mind to him. Especially if Deceit would for once speak the truth and admit to wrongdoings. Roman was looking into the mirror and hyping himself up. What was wrong with him? He could do this. He was the prince. He could charm anyone if he so chose. It should not be too hard to convince Anx… Virgil to join him for a few Disney movies. Especially if he attached a friendly game to it. A little debate with some nice Disney posters as the prize. To recapture their back and forth in a less strenuous setting. He smiled a little as he mused over the name, finishing the little flowerpot of Lavender he planned to give to him as a peace offering. It made him feel… Closer somehow. The dark, anxious side had always seemed so frustratingly out of reach. Ever since he formed, before they had started their… Thing. And now they could start a new thing… A better thing… “What are you doing?” Roman jumped in surprise and turned around. “Virgil… Hi… What a pleasant surprise,” he replied nervously. Virgil smirked, leaning against Roman’s door. “Never thought I’d hear you say that… In a non sarcastic way I mean,” he chuckled casually. “Oh… Well… It is. A surprise. What brings you here?” Roman wondered. Virgil shrugged. “Wanted to return the favor and barge into you guys’ rooms,” he said as he looked around. “And… I wanted to talk to you… About before…” Roman immediately got nervous. He probably should apologize for that. But Virgil was first. “I’m kinda glad I don’t have to pretend anymore,” he said… In a surprisingly soft voice, as he pushed off against the door and hooked his thumbs through his belthoops. Roman blinked. “Pretend what exactly?” he asked. Virgil walked closer, eyes not leaving Roman’s, making the prince nervous. Suddenly he felt a hand wrap around his. He was brought back to their Valentine’s debate. Wasn’t this how Virgil said he would start talking to someone he liked? “That I hated this… Or you catching me when Thomas shot me out of the sky…” he confessed. Oh… Oh. Wow… This… Roman had barely started to admit these things to himself and now Virgil… It was almost too good to be true. “Virgil I…” wait… It was too good to be true. Roman violently pulled his hand back. “You aren’t Virgil are you?” he growled. The eyes boring into his widened before they narrowed, a cruel smirk spreading as now it was not Virgil but Deceit in front of him. Roman would’ve taken a step back, but he was already standing right at his vanity. Instead he glared at Deceit, hoping he’d back off instead. He did not, but Roman refused to show that this bothered him. “What do you want Snake? And make it quick.” He was itching to draw his blade. But he didn’t want to risk Virgil maybe being upset if he attacked one of his… former housemates. Even if he was clearly being provoked. “Such a charmer. I am quite impressed you noticed it was me,” he drawled. “And surprised that you did not reject me when you still thought I was him. Though I suppose that gave it away. Not even you could be stupid enough to think that he could ever care for you like that. Once maybe. But not after all you put him through.” That hit Roman hard. He… He hadn’t ruined things that much… Right? They’d both said and done things they regretted. They could become friends. Work their way up from there. If didn’t rush it. Gave it time… Roman collected himself. This was Deceit. He was just trying to mess with his head. “Go spout your lies to someone interested in hearing them,” he spat. Deceit quirked a brow. “I’m curious though… Why him? He’s never said a single good word about you,” he asked smoothly. Roman scoffed. He didn’t expect Deceit to understand. “You can talk so sweetly serpentine solicitor. But if Virgil ever said something alluding to such affections towards me… I know he’d be sincere no matter what words he chooses.” Deceit chuckled. “You really think that? If he thinks you want him to say and feel those things he’d probably be too… Anxious to refuse you. So don’t worry too much about ‘winning’ him over. He’ll be a good boy and try to make you happy. Especially if you act quick. He wouldn’t want to risk losing all this newly acquired acceptance.” Roman’s blood ran cold. This time he did draw his sword, and Deceit was smart and quick enough to jump back. “How dare you? Such trickery would maybe be enough for you, you foul creature! But I shall never… Leave! Leave before I lose my patience!” he growled. Deceit made a bow and disappeared. Roman took a deep breath and sheeted his sword. He turned back to the mirror. That was a lie right? He hadn’t ruined things that much. And Virgil wouldn’t… He wasn’t even going to get that serious right away. He wasn’t entirely sure what he was going to do… There was a knock on his door. He cursed under his breath. He couldn’t turn down Patton if he was doing a wellness check and sending Logan away under any circumstances, when he felt he needed to be somewhere, was nearly impossible. He took a deep breath and put up a charming smile. He could do this for a bit and figure out a way to make his visitor leave. He walked over to the door and swung it open with a grand gesture. “Why hello… Virgil?” Roman dropped his arm as he saw the darker clad side in front of him, yet again. Was Deceit trying to pull the same trick twice? “Don’t sound so happy to see me princey,” Virgil teased with a smirk. That sure sounded like him. “Just surprised you would knock… On my door of all places,” he admitted. “Yeah…” Virgil rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly. “Listen. I was thinking… You don’t have to do anything special. Like… Pat did this whole card thing and… famILY… It’s nice but… Don’t feel like you have to. I don’t think Pat is going to believe me for a while. But… I’m not ducking out again. It was a stupid, impulsive decision. And it won’t happen again. So… yeah.” Virgil looked up at him with a careless shrug. Roman felt a sting to his heart. He’d done this. If not for his irrational fear of his own feelings for someone out of his reach, Virgil wouldn’t be thinking like that. Well, if he made this mess he would clean it up too. He grabbed Virgil by the arm and dragged him inside. “Have a seat,” he instructed as he let go of the stunned sides arm when they arrived at the couch. He walked over to his desk and picked up the flowers. He put them on the table in front of the couch. “I don’t make the perfect bouquet because I have to Virgil. Creativity cannot be forced or rushed, no matter how hard I may try…” He took a deep breath. “So if I spent time on making something for you. Or spend time with you, it is because I feel like it. I am creativity. I shall not be forced. Patton cannot fake caring about others. And Logan would not bother even if Patton begged him. So don’t flatter yourself Virgil. When we are kind to you it is because we would like to be friends with you. Not because you have made us feel like we have to,” he stated firmly. “Now we are going to have a movie night, so scoot over. I have first pick.” It wasn’t how Roman had hoped to start the evening, but this was how it happened. And to his relief Virgil had a small smile on his face as he settled in. He’d settle for this… For now, and if needed forever.

KAU

@kingcreativityau the angsty shipy thing I talked about

Janus was pacing the floor. He didn't like this one bit.

“What's taking him so long?” he wondered aloud.

It was a rhetorical question and the sides who were sitting here waiting couldn’t answer him even if it wasn't. No one liked this plan. It hadn't even been a plan. It was half an idea Logan and Janus would have dismissed at once if Virgil hadn’t been in the room  and overheard Janus mumble about it. Harnessing Virgil’s given powers and undo what king had done.

It was too risky to even consider. Janus didn’t need Virgil to point out all  the ways it could go very wrong. To everyone’s shock Virgil came with a solution though. He'd take king up on his offer and finish the gallery, ask him to teach him to get control over the shadows. If king took a liking to teaching, which Virgil thought he might, he'd keep doing it and eventually Virgil could lift the curses and they all could get back to helping Thomas.

Janus had wanted to argue. Sure king enjoyed instructing others in skills he felt more proficient at. He recalled King teaching him to duel not too long ago. He also remembered what happened after the student caught up though. King storming away and then, after he'd managed to get out of king's obstacle… how he'd been cornered, the panic the punishment for daring to upset the king in any way. No this was their mess. Virgil was not yet on king's bad side. That was a card they couldn't waste on something that risky.

But Logan had been writing and Janus was convinced he'd say something similar. And Virgil was more likely to listen to Logan so he'd waited.

He should have known Logan would never just dismiss any idea out of hand.

Somehow they'd all agreed to see if Virgil could get a first lesson. And soon Virgil left them to practice with the king every day. Which should be a comfort right? King clearly enjoyed the activity and he was not suspicious of anything. That was exactly what had Janus worried now.

Because king wasn't the only one enjoying the lessons. Sure Virgil still seemed terrified of the man, but whenever he returned he was deep in thought, sometimes with a small smile on his face. The one that said: I just did something right.

He'd been looking at them oddly too, like he was figuring out a complicated puzzle.

Something was off but Virgil refused to talk about it. Something about a promise he made.

A click of a pen echoed through the mostly empty space and Janus' head snapped up.

Logan needed his attention.

He was scribbling down something as fast as he could and handed it over. Janus read it over. It was a long ramble, but it came down to one thing.

“I do have faith in Virgil. It's king I’m worried about. One perceived slight and…”

Janus touched the mark on his face. The memory of it's creation very vivid in his mind.

“Aw, you do care,” Virgil's voice came from behind him. Janus whirled around.

Something about what he saw took him back, to a time when he had two misfit friends who didn't hate him. Before the fight.

Maybe if was that mischievous smirk or the way he carried himself as if he couldn't care less what other people thought. Except now he really seemed to mean it.

His clothes weren’t back to normal by any means. They were upgraded though. From a dark version of Roman's original outfit to one reflecting the fitting in upgrade. Except Virgil wore a few medals pinned on his vest. As well as applying Virgil's black and purple with white detailing color scheme.

He also wore a dark purple hooded cape instead of a sash.

Most startling of all, he looked genuinely comfortable with it all.

“Virgil? Is that you?” Janus asked.

Virgil nodded, still smirking. “Indeed it is,” the deep terrifying voice of the King boomed and suddenly he stood behind him hands delicately resting on the youngest side’s shoulders.

But Virgil didn’t even flinch.

“Dear Anxiety made so much progress, I felt he deserved a promotion. I offered him the title of Prince,” king summoned a dark crown in his hand only to immediately clench his fist and make the image disappear. “but he is so loyal to those he considers friends he wouldn't even consider to take my light half’s title,” King praised fondly. He stroked Virgil's hair for a moment. “So he is my head counselor now on top of creative minister. And you should all be happy to know, he made a plea on your behalf.” King waved his hand and suddenly Patton was six years old.

“Wha… I can talk?” Logan gasped astonished.

“You explain the conditions to them. I have to get back to work.” And just like that, King was gone.

“You did it?” Janus asked perplexed this was too good to be true.

“King did. Don't take his generosity for granted,” Virgil warned sternly.

“Virgil, kiddo…”

“You shall not address me like that!” Virgil hissed, his voice booming, twisted and sinister, a dark aura flaring up, making them all step backwards in shock.

Virgil took a deep breath. “Names are for friends and allies. After what I heard… you’ll have to earn my trust back,” he explained a little calmer. They all froze in horror. King told him… of course he did. He'd have to be a fool not to.

“These gifts have conditions attached. Morality you can get back to your own age with good behavior, the reverse is true as well though. Logic your voice can not speak ill of the king and what you do say about him will find it’s way to us.

Any and all communication to the king must go through me. You remember my shadow?” the creature in question appeared next to Virgil.

“He'll… assist you when I am with the king. Ask him if you need to ask me or king something. Oh and fair warning….” Suddenly they all fell to the ground. Crushed by guilt and fear and desperation.

“I’ll do anything to protect Thomas from having to live without us ever again. I won‘t permit you to anger the king. Understood?”

They all nodded as they whipped at their tears.

“Good. Dismissed.” When they looked up Virgil was gone. Only his shadow remained. The creature stared back at them looking heartbroken. “I’m sorry,” it whispered.

“This… might be the worst possible thing,” Logan muttered as he helped Patton up. While the two oldest sides discussed their situation Janus stared in horror at the tragic looking shadow.

How could he have let this happen?

 Janus opened his eyes. He was sweating, his heart was racing. What was real, what was a dream? He looked around. He was in his room. He got up to his knees and tapped a rhythm neither he or his neighbor had heard in years. Virgil used to wake up from nightmares like this. Not sure about reality and scared to leave his room. So they came up with a system. Notes weren't an option when you didn't want to turn on the light and alert Remus someone was awake to play with him. So they made up their version of Morse code.

‘What is going on' was always the start of such a conversation. It was just a long series of rapid light knocks. The first reaction, ‘I hear you' was a flat palm against the door. Then you wait for the other to respond. Virgil's response was quicker than he expected.

‘Patton. Small. Logan. Silent. Twins. One.’

Janus nodded. He hadn't dared to hope that all of it was a dream.

‘you?’ he asked. Though he doubted if Virgil could know what to tell him to assure him he wasn't currently being tutored by king. ‘Scared. Confused. Angry. Sad.’

Janus bit his lip. Virgil didn't use the code for pupil. If there was any real plan like in his nightmare Virgil would mention it. He’d been on the other side of these conversations often enough. Yes, everything was… well not fine but not as horrible as he'd feared. All he had to do to keep his dream from happening was not leave Virgil alone with the king. And… maybe figure out how to tell Virgil what had happened all these years ago.

Janus got ready to knock. There was a knock that meant to convey empathy. To be a comforting reminder that Virgil was not alone. But halfway through he remembered another pattern. One Virgil would always close the conversation with. It was almost an alternative for goodnight in these conversations. But it meant ‘Sorry’. Janus' scales stung with the thought of that word. But if he knocked the pattern… it wasn't the same right?

He took a deep breath and started out with: ‘Thanks.’ He readied his hand it was just three knocks long… But the very thought was agony

‘Welcome. Good night.’

Janus sighed as he heard the reply. Perhaps another time.

‘Good night.’

“You called?” Virgil popped up with a teasing smirk, making Thomas jump in surprise.

“Kiddo! There you are! Thomas this is your Anxiety,” Patton grinned brightly. “What’s up?” Virgil asked with a two fingered salute. “Oh… Hi?” Thomas smiled tentatively. “Now Thomas, remember, he’s a bit of a Debby downer sometimes but he has good intentions,” Roman assured him making Virgil roll his eyes. Thomas nodded. “Yeah you’re right,” he nodded. Then he smiled carefully at Virgil who gave him a shy smile back, which was somehow reassuring to Thomas. The young man relaxed, easing the pressure Virgil had been struggling with all day. “Well… Um it was nice meeting you all. I’ll… See you guys around?” “We’re always with you kiddo,” Patton assured Thomas. “We are aspects of your personality after all,” Logan pointed out. “And we shall always strive to help you to be the best you can be!” Roman declared. “Or, you know, keep you alive at least,” Virgil shrugged. After that Thomas would occasionally converse with them directly when he was struggling with something. Then Vine came along, Patton's brilliant suggestion actually, and they became characters. Even Virgil got skits both as anxiety and as the villain/best friend to Roman’s prince. The fans insisting he and Roman were lovers got a laugh out of all of them. And then they appeared as themselves on youtube and Thomas started to have group discussions with them. Virgil was reluctant at first and only made a brief cameo during the first two episodes. But the fans demanded more so he got his own episode and somehow the fanders lost their minds. Jan, Remus, Roman and Virgil had a good laugh when Logan learned he and Patton were paired up almost as often as Virgil and Roman were. Patton just thought it was cute. Roman was delighted with all the attention of course. Virgil though, couldn’t help but wonder if he was really helping or making everything harder. His and Roman’s best friends/mortal enemies banter carried over from the vines, and he knew that none of the jabs and insults were sincere or meant to be hurtful, but some hit too close to home regardless of their intent. And Logan sometimes made good points to shut him down. And even Patton tried putting him on the sidelines. And maybe that was where he belonged. They all had their own room now. Remus and Janus’ being near the willow, Roman, Patton and Logan at the front of the mind and Virgil was in the middle. And maybe he shouldn’t be. Maybe he shouldn’t even be here to begin with. He should just leave. Before he did something he couldn’t take back that hurt the others. This had lasted too long already. He shouldn’t be pushing his luck. So he ducked out. Or he tried. Apparently he was needed. And everyone made that very clear. And things were good for a while after that… until Janus showed up.

“What was that?” Virgil demanded after he had made sure the others were doing alright after the whole theater ordeal. And it was Roman’s condition he wanted to talk about. “Virgin! How ya doing!? You’re so busy lately we haven’t gone monster hunting in forever!” Remus grinned as he popped up from seemingly nowhere. Virgil allowed himself a moment to smile at Remus. He couldn’t help that his best friend was being a dramatic jerk. And he had a point. It’d been too long since Virgil had taken the time to hang out with Remus. He could make excuses all day, but fact remained he’d been neglecting him. An issue he could still make right.

“You're right. How about we go nightmare hunting later? You, me and Roman. Like old times?” Virgil suggested.

Remus grinned widely at that. “Promise?”

Virgil nodded. “You go tell Roman to get ready. I'll be there in a sec,” he assured him. And so he was left alone with the yellow clad side.

“Well?” he demanded.

“Thomas is simply at a point in his journey where it was time he got to know me. Your little dilemma just presented a good opportunity to introduce myself. Nothing more,” Janus explained patiently.

“I don't give a damn about you talking to Thomas! It's how you went about it!” Virgil demanded. Then he took a deep breath to reign in his temper. “Listen, I get that it’s been frustrating for you and Remus to hide away like this, but just… remember that we’re your friends okay? That’s all,” Virgil pleaded. “I get where you were coming from today. I really do. But Joan is Thomas’ best friend. And trust between friends is so important. It just wasn’t the right call today,” he explained more calmly. He missed the haunted expression that flashed over Janus’ face. The master of deception had his face back under control in a second. Even if he didn’t have a grip on the stinging in his heart or behind his eyes yet. “Of course Virgil. I’ll keep that in mind,” he promised. And he felt slightly moved when Virgil just took his word for it and bid him goodbye to go see Remus and Roman. The fanders going wild over Deceit with theories and cosplays and art and all the ships was a topic of happy conversation amongst the sides and it was decided to just let bygones be bygones. Dee had his introduction and next time he was needed he’d help Thomas see him in a less black and white way. Jan made a cameo at Halloween where he reminisced on the Halloween pranks the ‘dark sides’ used to play on everyone when they were kids in vague terms that got the fans theorizing on Remus’ identity like crazy. And then… The callback. “How could you?” Virgil demanded when he found Janus after being shut out of Roman’s room with little more than the explanation that he was busy. Patton insisted he was fine, which he was not and Logan insisted that he was ‘not in need of any assistance at the moment’. So Virgil was left with only one thing to do and that was confronting the cause of all this.

“It’s not my fault Roman insisted on pleasing Patton rather than fulfilling his purpose,” Deceit argued bitterly. “Roman was doing his job perfectly fine. If you hadn’t meddled we might’ve actually gotten to something… I mean what were you thinking when benching Logan? And bullying Thomas in the stands like that… Did you even care that you hurt Princey? Did you notice we were all miserable when you were having your one man party? Or did you just choose not to see?” Janus was taken aback by Virgil’s passion. He'd only wanted Thomas to… he'd done that so everyone would be happy. It just hadn't ended how he thought it would. Roman wasn't supposed to be selfless. He was the ego for heaven's sake! King would’ve never…

Oh no… that was his mistake wasn't it? He'd predicted Roman's actions based off of Him. He didn’t know the lighter creativity as well as he knew his brother. They'd been pleasant acquaintances, casual friends even. But they never got as close as Roman as with any of the others.

Janus' scales itched as if to remind him of their part in this. And yet Janus had selfishly insisted on keeping them as a guard against the others. If he hadn't, maybe he could've seen more of this noble side to Roman. Seen him grow from the self-centered, attention seeking, dramatic into… well still all of that but with a true desire to improve. To be better than his worst impulses for his friends.

He'd almost forgotten he wasn't alone. But Virgil was not done. “So congrats Janus. Thomas knows he’s a liar. And everyone in the mindscape feels miserable. But hey, at least you were right. That’s all that matters right?” Virgil bit and when the serpentine side still failed to answer it somehow made him even angrier than if he had tried to defend himself. At least then it would show Virgil was wrong in his thinking somewhere. He needed Jan to say he was magnifying , or jumping to conclusions or whatever. Just something. “You better hope I manage to clean up some of the mess you made,” he warned. “I can’t believe I ever believed you cared about us. About anyone but yourself,” he scoffed as he turned around and left. That finally made Janus snap out of his frozen stare. He started to follow, ready to grab Virgil's hand and explain himself. “Virgil wait…” “Save it Jan! An apology from you means nothing!” Virgil was just mad. He probably would’ve been willing to at least listen once he’d calmed down… But those words… Janus felt as if he was punched in the gut. And the way he chose to deal with this was… Well… “Kiddo? Where is Roman?” Patton wondered as he saw Virgil head to the dreamscape, followed by a litter of shadow kittens. Sadly that last bit wasn’t a startling sight anymore. Everyone was having so much stress and thoughts, Virgil could not keep up. Ignoring them, Logan said, wasn’t going to be less draining than facing them directly in the long run. And Virgil knew he was right. But with the aftershock of Janus’ brilliant performance still echoing through the Thomassphere, Virgil didn’t have the time to acknowledge them, let alone face them. He had to help Patton out so he wouldn’t overwork himself in trying to cheer everyone up. Make sure Logan felt helpful and listened to. Most importantly he had to show Roman that he was there for him, no matter what.

Roman couldn’t even stand the color yellow at the moment. Even his interactions with Remus had gotten strained. That was another thing. Since Roman couldn’t bring it up to spend time with his brother due to his closeness with the snake, Virgil had also had to assure him that he was still important to them. It was just a weird situation right now.

In the past, Virgil would have dragged them both to the imagination to talk things out, but in this instance Roman wasn’t angry with Remus. It was just that none of them could really deal with his antics right now and that meant that hanging out with him would very soon lead to Janus being called to them and… Right. Virgil was exhausted and surrounded by physical manifestations of everyone’s stress and worries 24/7. Good job Jan. “I had him rest up, I’m going to take the night shift today. He’s been working too hard lately,” Virgil explained, thinking back to the grateful smile Roman had given him as he went to bed. It made him feel slightly better he‘d done that right. It had even made a kitten or two disappear. Patton glanced down at the dozen kittens that were left. “So have you,” he pointed out. Virgil chuckled lamely. “Guess we all need a break,” he sighed. “Break what? Your skull?” Virgil nearly jumped out of his skin and Patton wasn’t any better. “Remus? Dude what are you…?” “Just coming to hang out with my good ol’ buddy! But if we are going to crack skulls, can I go first?” Virgil, in a panic, shoved Remus against a wall and clamped his hand over his mouth. “Shush! If you talk like that in here Thomas’ll hear you!” he reminded his chaotic friend. Then the blood drained from is face and he jumped back with a look of disgust. “You licked me!” he exclaimed as he looked at his hand. Instead of saliva there was some sort of slime or mucus dripping from his palm. Gross. He grabbed a towel to white it off. Normally he'd laugh it off, because what did he expect to happen? But now he couldn't handle another thing going wrong.

“Well you surprised me Virgie! I didn’t know you liked it that way. But I’m going to have to decline. Romie would kill me if I took his man,” he teased Virgil rolled his eyes. Remus loved the ships and liked bringing them up whenever possible. “But about that skull breaking…” Suddenly Patton and Virgil recoiled at the images Remus’ train of thought had wrought. Patrick, Thomas imagined he’d… No. “Thomas don’t! What the heck dude!” he exclaimed as he held his head trying not to add to the litter. He was getting close to a break down, he could just feel it. This was all too much.

“You can’t be thinking like that Kiddo!” Patton agreed. It was a long restless night. The only good thing that came out of it was Logan managing to take a huge weight off of Virgil’s chest and in doing so allowing Thomas to breathe a little easier as well.

“You sure you’re okay?” Virgil asked once again as he finished taking care of Roman’s head once he got him back to his room. “I told you I’m fine Virgil. Thank you. For looking after me now and trying to protect me earlier. It is much appreciated,” he smiled tiredly. “Of course…” Virgil shrugged. Picking up a shadow puppy and petting it. Letting the guilt be for a bit. “I just wish-”

“None of that!” Roman insisted with a wave of his hand. “You have been working yourself ragged trying to protect us all. Remus showing up just was too much for all of us.” “I’m sorry about that,” Remus offered sheepishly making both men jump. “Dude!” Virgil hissed as he recovered from his surprise. “Remus! Would it kill you to use a door?” Roman asked as he clutched at his racing heart. Remus' sheepish look was so unexpected that both of them forgot about their annoyance instantly.

“Rem, you good dude?” Virgil wondered.

“Did I hurt you for realsies?” Remus asked his brother carefully. Roman had always been able to handle rough housing just fine. But during the discussion it had occurred to Remus that his brother might not be at full strength right now.

Roman gave Remus a reassuring smile. “Don't worry Remus. This,” he gestured to the bandaging on his head, “is just Virgil being overly thorough. I'll be back to dragon slaying in no time,” he promised. Virgil gave Roman a glare and a shove for that.

“Hey! I am injured! Have some compassion!” Roman whined.

“Either you're fine or you need to be handled with care. Can't have it both ways Princey,” Virgil  pointed out with a teasing smirk.

Roman pouted at that, making his audience laugh which was the point. He was delighted to see the puppy and a few kittens disappearing. He loathed seeing them in such numbers around his friend.

“I did have a lot of fun today though!” Remus grinned.

Virgil let out a sigh and smiled. He didn’t, but if the twins were okay, then that was all that mattered.

“Well, now that Thomas knows I suppose you'll be out and about more in the future,” Roman told him, making his brother grin from ear to ear.

They relaxed and talked for a while, no one mentioning Janus or his part in today's events. Even Remus knew not go bring that up. Or perhaps he was too distracted by a million other things to do so.

“Well, nice catching up! But I’ll let you lovebirds have your privacy,” Remus announced as he got up from the bed.

“Where are you going?” Roman asked.

Remus snickered. “My room. Did I scramble your brain Roro?”

Roman ignored the charming visual, tugging at his sash and frowning.

“You don't have to go back there… Just because Deceit said that's where you are supposed to be… he lies… he does whatever it takes…” He clenched his hands into fists around the sash. He was trying so hard to keep composure that the hand on his shoulder made him jump. He looked up. Virgil was smiling at him, not reassuring, but understanding. He gave him a squeeze and turned to Remus.

“If you want we can move you next to my room. You don't have to of course,” he told Remus.

The resident gremlin grinned back at the two of them. “Aw, that’s disgustingly sweet of you V. But I’ll stick with double d in the back. I don't want to catch the sap bug you all suffer from up here.” He made a gagging sound and turned to leave.

“If you change your mind, we'll be here okay,” Virgil reminded him.

Remus gave them a dismissive wave and left.

“Shouldn't we stop him? Who knows what that snake'll have him do next?” Roman worried ready to chase after his brother.

“I’d love to, but that’s not how Remus works,” Virgil sighed.

Roman hated that he was right. He just hoped his brother wouldn't get burned the way he was.

The tension in the mindscape calmed down, somewhat. But then… the wedding came.

Long before they even got there, Virgil was exhausted. Roman could see that and the event did not give his hooded friend a chance to rest. So Before Thomas got home, Roman took a page out of Virgil’s book and forced the anxious side to sleep. He brought him to Remus in the back of the mind.

“Keep him safe until I come to collect him alright?”

Remus nodded knowing that ‘safe' actually meant away from Deceit.

Or as he was now known publicly, Janus.

Remus was shaking. He'd heard every word. He thought Janus was his friend. He'd sworn that he wasn't bad… but then of course… what made him trust the word of the master of lies?

He wanted to scream, to hit something, to… then he looked up and saw Roman staring at him. A wild look in his eyes.

“Just Listen!” Patton's voice came from the distance.

“Guys?” a groggy voice from behind Remus. Virgil… “What are you doing?”

Remus and Roman were still staring. Having a silent conversation with just their eyes. They'd promised, but this was different. Virgil would be happier with his old friend back rather than two bad copies he had to split his time between right?

It was like their thoughts were synching up. They could see every bit of hurt they had caused Thomas, Virgil and the others by being apart. Together they might be able to fix everything. They reached out their hands.

“Wait! Please don't!” Virgil pleaded. The twins cast their one true friend one last grateful look and then they were gone.

King grinned victoriously as he as once again one. He was different, he could already tell, but that didn't have to be a bad thing.

His eye landed on Morality and he grinned cruelly. The blast of his rebirth had brought Morality to his knees before him, as he should be.

“There you go,” he praised as he held his sword out, daring morality to try something.

“Bow before the king,” he commanded.

He took a moment to commend Morality for his clever ruse. Even bowed to him, relishing in how each word and gesture made Morality shrink and tremble. And he hadn't even begun to play yet.

Suddenly there was a soft gasp behind him. He looked back and spotted fear. Oh good. In all the commotion he'd almost forgotten he was here. He stared up at him in wide eyed disbelief. It was a lot to take in he supposed. Him being back with this brand new look. He should probably greet him properly. “Ah, Fear,” he smiled, showing he remembered him. There was no need for him to worry that he would have to start from scratch with him yet again. He knew everything.

They were going to have so much fun together!