Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Scott's head hurt. This was the umpteenth meeting his advisors have held for him about this particular subject. Scott was tired of being asked about it- of talking about it- of having to bring it up to his husband in the form of complaints. What was worse was his advisors weren't the only ones that seemed worried about the subject. Recently Jimmy had been cornered by his table and pressed about the matter. Scott wondered if their counsels had a joint meeting without them. Something about duel pressure. It wasn't fair though. Jimmy and him were hardly pressing their thirties. They had a long while before either of them passed away, and it wasn't likely that war was on the brink that would threaten either of their lives. Sure, assassins were always on the table, but both kingdoms people seems rather satisfied with the state of the rulers. A child was the last thing Scott wanted to worry about.

"They're saying we have the time. There's nothing to do." Jimmy sat while Scott paced his room. "I mean- we are sort of filling time. They're not wrong. I've settled an agreement with the mythland and grimlands. You're not still butting heads with Joey are you?" Jimmy asked. Scott continued to pace.

"No." He was blunt. Jimmy opened his mouth to continue speaking his points. Scott cut him off. "But we shouldn't have a kid just because we have time, Jimmy. That could change anytime." He had had this conversation so many times the words felt rehearsed.

"Don't tell me you're actually thinking about it." Scott stopped in front of Jimmy, looking at him. Jimmy's face flushed and he looked out the window at the snow.

"Sort of." He admitted. "I think it would be nice. Having a family. Something to tie us together…" Jimmy looked back at Scott. Jimmy always looked out of place in Rivendale. But Scott made sure he knew he had a home here.

"We transfer between Rivendale and the Cod Empire too often. It would stress any kid out." Scott tried to not let his eyebrows furrow.

"Then we settle for periods of time until the kid gets used to it. We don't both need to travel." Jimmy leaned forward, grabbing Scott's cold hands and pulling him closer. Scott found his place standing between Jimmys thighs.

"You said the Cod Empire could be a sub-kingdom under the Ocean Empire." Scott stated.

"And that's still true."

"Then it doesn't need an heir."

"That's not true." Jimmy frowned.

"Lizzie and Joel don't have a kid" Scott couldn't believe he was having this argument with his husband now. He didn't think this would even be a topic of conversation for a long while. Elves lived for… a while. He knew he'd outlive Jimmy, but that was for older Scott to worry about. But they were still young enough to not need to worry. (the thought of outliving his kid may have scared him all the same)

"They don't" Jimmy agreed. "But they've been discussing their options as well" Scott's face fell. Jimmy rubbed his knuckles and frowned up at him.

"…why don't you want a kid, Scott?" He asked in his softest voice. Scott didn't want to have this conversation. He tried to tug his hands away but Jimmy held on, not letting him leave.

"I won't judge you. I never do." Jimmy squeezed his hands and Scott rolled his eyes.

"You judge me when I sleep with a tank-top on."

"Because it's freezing!" Jimmy laughed. Scott smiled just a little before it fell again.

"I'm not fit to be a parent. I mean- look at my family history." Scott focused on his hands. Jimmy stayed quiet- almost waiting for Scott to elaborate. Scott's eyebrows furrowed and he wished they could just go to bed.

"My parents were leaders in being leaders. They… I don't know how to parent. I never was shown that love." Scott had already told Jimmy that. It wasn't a secret between them.

"And then Xornoth betraying me- the kingdom- almost putting us in ruin-" Scott could feel jimmy's eyes boring into him like he was a kicked puppy. "I just don't have good experience with family. Rivendale isn't a good place for a family." Scott thought about how he grew up being forced to sit straight, keep his clothes clean, his hair long, his feathers preened. The fact Jimmy was his husband, the furthest thing from pristine, probably had his mother rolling in her grave. He didn't want to put a child through that. Through the stares of his counsel, the constant reminder they were royalty.

"I'm not fit for being a parent." Scott's lower lip was trembling and he didn't know why. He didn't get why tears were building, or why Jimmy was suddenly standing up and pulling Scott to press his face into his shoulder.

"Oh Scott…" Jimmy rocked them side to side. Scott sniffled and tried to stop the emotional flood.

"Scott, come on. Look at me, okay?" Jimmy asked, his hand immediately finding Scott's cheek, using his thumb to wipe the cold tears.

"You're such a good person. You really are- and sometimes… you're advisors are scary, yes" Jimmy bobbed his head side to side. "But you've never let them say one mean thing to me. Any time they're rude, you correct them. Any time we have a knock at the door, you use your wings to hide me. When we sleep, you're all over me as if I'll be whisked away from you" Jimmy laughed. Scott rolled his eyes, but Jimmy made him look back at him.

"…I think you'd be a great Dad." Jimmy said it. The word. The thought of being called that made his stomach sink and his insides twist.

"no- not dad- I'm dad- or I'm Jimmy, but I can also be dad. You can be Scott. You can be parent! You'd-"

"Jimmy" Scott cut him off, smiling a little. Scott loved him. So much.

"Sorry-" Jimmy gave a crooked smile. "Scott Major of Rivendale. You would make an amazing parent." He watched Scott's face as if Scott would just shove him away and tell him to get out. Maybe five years ago he would have. "We could always stay in the Cod Empire until you're ready to bring them here" He offered. For some reason that didn't make him feel any better.

"…But if you really don't think this is the time, then we can wait. As long as you want, I'll tell them to all back off, I'll make it an off topic subject." Jimmy looked so serious. Scott didn't just love Jimmy, he was in love with Jimmy.

"Can we go to bed now? I'm cold" Scott whispered, leaning forward to press his forehead onto Jimmys shoulder.

"Well yeah- it's your, wait- you're cold?!" Jimmy scoffed. Scott laughed.

Three days later, they were laying in bed face to face, whispering and staring at each other while the sun rose through the windows. They'd be traveling to the Ocean Empire today to see Lizzie and Joel.

"-and then Joel had this really ugly costume on and Lizzie was just all over him, and I didn't really get it-" Jimmy was talking about this dream he had. "And Grian was just marching around singing this song and it was truly awful-" Jimmy huffed, his breath warm across the small space between them.

"I don't want a baby." Scott's face was blank. He tried to keep it level.

"What- oh- well, then we won't have a baby. I don't know how that would work anyways to be honest-" Scott didn't think Jimmy got it.

"No, Jim." Scott whispered, his knee crossing with Jimmys under their blanket. "I don't want a baby. I don't want something small- breakable-"

"Well, if you ask Lizzie, I was unbreakable as a baby" Scott made a face and Jimmy understood. "Oh- oh, right- sorry-" he apologized instantly. A silence settled between them. Scott didn't know what he expected from Jimmy. They never said they needed nor wanted a baby. It was implied, he was sure that was what their advisors always thought of. Scott would carry. But would that even work? Jimmy was born from an egg, and Scott did not like the idea of giving birth to anything let alone an egg.

"…what- uhm- what do you want?" Jimmys voice was a whisper again.

"…I don't know." Scott looked down at Jimmys neck. Anything to avoid his eyes. "Just not a baby."

"…okay" Jimmy said slowly. "No babies. No little- sticky fingers."

"Definitely no sticky fingers"

"No screaming meltdowns."

"Oh please no" Scott groaned, turning his head into his silk pillow.

"…is there an orphanage in Rivendale?" Jimmy asked. Scott thought for a moment, his face still in silk. For some reason he could smell Jimmy deep in the pillows. Despite him being next to the king, Scott inhaled the scent from the pillows.

"I think so. I don't know that it's smart to pick a child from Rivendale though." Scott breathed out, looking back at Jimmy.

"…why not?"

"Imagine knowing your king walked into an orphanage and didn't pick you." Scott's eyebrows narrowed. Jimmy thought about it for a little before nodding.

"Okay… maybe one of the other kingdoms have systems. I mean, they'd have to. The ocean and cod empires don't… because typically they're passed through family…."

"What if there is no family?"

"The castle takes them. There's a nursery and everything. They go to school and are assigned families once they're old enough. Normally castle staff."

"That's…" Scott sighed. It wasn't worth the argument that that was technically an orphanage system.

"Let's ask Lizzie. Maybe she'll know more."

"Why not your advisors?"

"They'll have opinions." Scott deadpanned. Jimmy smiled sheepishly back. He still had sleep in his eyes.

"Right. Gods forbid they have opinions."

"Jimmy" Scott warned.

"Okay- okay. We'll talk to Lizzie first, see if she knows anything. I don't think we should actually do anything until we get counsel first" Jimmy expressed. Scott made a distressed noise and Jimmy pulled the elf into his personal space, nose to nose.

"Can't exactly show up with a kid and be like- "surprise!", I'm sure they'd very much dislike that. Especially from a random kingdom?" Jimmy pressed his nose to Scott's. Scott closed his eyes as he felt jimmys breath back on him.

"I guess so."

"I know so" Jimmy kissed Scott briefly. "Do you want to sleep in while I gather our things?"

Scott thought for a moment before kissing Jimmy again, not letting him go for a good moment until he decided they should breathe.

"No. I'll get up with you." Scott sighed, kissing Jimmy once more for luck.

The trip to the Ocean Empire was always peaceful. The scenery was nice and the flight was easy. It allowed Scott to ignore any thoughts that were trapped in his brain. Why think about everything going wrong when you have so much to look at. They were always made to be so welcomed too. The staff greeted them, asked them about their flight and assured them that Lizzie and Joel would be there as soon as possible.

Scott shifted in his seat as he waited quietly. He and Jimmy hadn't really said a word to each other since they left and Scott didn't know if that was for the better or not. He had no clue what Jimmy was thinking. He wished he knew.

"So… What can I help with?" Lizzie asked. Her voice was gentle as if she could tell that they were both a little stressed over the current events. Scott looked to Jimmy hoping he would be the one to explain their situation to his sister.

Jimmy caught the hint and sat up a little bit. "We need advice on adopting." Lizzie and Joel both just stared at them. Joel's face was the first to crack as he looked confused and slightly taken back. Scott stared down at his lap. Why was this so embarrassing? This was his sister-in-law, the person who raised Jimmy and seemed to always be okay with comforting Scott in times of need.

"Okay…" Lizzie exhaled. "And what exactly do you want us to help with?" Lizzie leaned forward, her face relaxed in a way that still seemed strained. Scott could feel Jimmy looking back at him. It was his turn to speak.

"We need to find an orphanage that's far enough away from here that it won't cause issues." Scott took the risk of looking at Joel. Joel was staring at him with some sort of intensity that made Scott almost uncomfortable. Lizzie hummed and looked between her brother and brother-in-law

"This is great-" she started, keeping her tone light. She could sense the nerves from both of them.

"We're just thinking about it-" Jimmy cut off. "Since… everyone's pressuring us." Lizzie stopped, her smile falling.

"Well if you don't want a kid, don't get a kid. Don't let these dorks bully you into doing something you regret" Joel scoffed, Lizzie nodding.

"Yeah. A kid is a lot of responsibility-"

"We just want to look into it. See what our options are." Scott didn't think there would be a day where he'd press on about having a kid. Maybe his advisors were getting to him.

Lizzie stared before smiling again. "Okay. I have an idea- but let me go look into something." She got up. "Stay here. I'll be only a minute " she squeezed Joel's shoulder and left the room. The door closing echoed and jimmy's hand found Scott's under the table. Scott couldn't be happier Jimmy was his husband.

"How come you're adopting?" Joel leaned back in his chair. Jimmys face got bright red.

"I don't think that's really your business-" Scott glared.

"Just curious! Wouldn't that be easier?" He clasped his hands over his stomach. Scott's lip twitched as he stared at the king.

"I don't think it's plausible." Scott didn't want to imagine the hardships he'd have to go through. "Plus, I don't want to carry an egg If Jimmys… whatever carries through." Scott snapped. Jimmy squeezed his hand. Joel blinked and looked like it just dawned on him.

"Huh. I forgot about that." He mumbled. "Did Lizzie come from an egg?" He sat up more. Jimmy rolled his eyes.

"I don't know, idiot. I was born after her."

"And you never asked?"

"It never mattered." Jimmy and Joel squabbled. Scott sighed and tuned them out. There was never a chance they'd have their own kid. If that was the only option, Scott would never agree. There were too many risks and Scott really didn't want a baby.

Jimmy and Joel's arguing ceased when Lizzie walked back in, narrowing her eyes at her husband and Jimmy. "Stop being mean to each other." She scolded and sat back down. Scott rolled his eyes and mumbled something about Joel starting it, earning him a warning exhale through the nose from Lizzie.

"I just sent a message to Grian." She watched Scott's face fall.

"I didn't tell him anything. I just said Joel and I were due for a visit and we'd be stopping by soon. This weekend." Lizzie watched as Joel looked just as shocked he was being dragged into this. "there's a rise of orphans in the Avianary, several babies, children, and teenagers." Lizzie looked a little disappointed by her own news.

"A virus wiped out a lot of adult avians. The same one that got grian and pearls parents. They're still recovering from the trauma, and the orphanages there aren't one to ask many questions. Especially about royals." She leaned on the table. Jimmy was squeezing Scott's hand so hard it almost hurt. but Jimmy could never hurt Scott.

"We'll go this weekend, Joel and I will keep Grian and Pearl occupied so they don't bug you. I'll contact an orphanage and arrange a private meeting. I suggest you write up a letter about your situation and think very hard about who you're looking for." Lizzie looked at Joel. They shared a look before looking back at the younger couple.

"This isn't like picking an axolotl or owl out. You can't just gaze at them and pick one. You have to find a fit." Scott felt very warm all the sudden. It was normally humid here, but he felt like he was starting to suffocate. This was real. He had actually made this choice. They were actually considering adopting a live child that they would have to raise and take care of.

"go back home. If you decide to back out, just send a message. This is a lot. A very big step, and I need you both to consider how this will change your lives" Lizzie reached her hands across the table. Only Jimmy reached out to her. Scott just stared.

"Okay. We will pick you up on Saturday morning. We'll stay in the Avianary until Sunday, so pack overnights." Lizzie looked at Joel again.

"Why am I coming along?"

"To see grian." She deadpanned. Joel seemed to have gotten the hint and looked back to Scott.

Scott felt like his insides were about to come out of his mouth.

Scott was knelt at the altar, his hands clasped in front of his chest, his head tilted up. His hair was undone and tangled in his feathers, and gold was smeared in a vertical line in the center of his lips. He was here every few days, praying, asking for help, wondering occasionally if his sobs of uncertainty and grief fell on deaf ears. Or even worse, nonexistent ones. But it couldn't have been a coincidence that he had a dream of Aeor last night. For the first time in a very long time.

The light shining in the window burned his face, but he endured it as he prayed. He needed guided. He needed to know that this was what was right. That Aeor approved of a child being brought into their home. A child of impure blood.

Scott's thighs hurt and his legs were tingly from sitting on them for so long, but he needed to be here. He needed Aeor to listen to him. To help him. Hadn't he been punished enough? Was the silence for years not enough of a lesson?

The crown adorning antlers was the first thing he saw on the alter as he opened his eyes, squinting from the sun. His lips remained pressed together as he bowed his head, then carefully forced himself up. His legs hurt and his joints popped. He felt like. Puppet on strings as he walked back down the isle of the church. It was empty, thankfully. If there was people watching their Emperor break down on the alter (again) he probably would die on the spot from humiliation.

Jimmy was right outside the door, pulling Scott into a firm and heavy hug once the doors closed. Scott couldn't hug back, but he did sink into it, pressing his eyes closed to prevent tears from streaming down. He wouldn't let this child be a sacrifice for Aeor. Not like he was. But he still needed Aeor to prove that this was the right choice. That this was what would save him from the emptiness that has slowly begun spreading around the castle.

When he pulled back, there was gold smudged on Jimmys coat and Scott smiled a little at that, looking to Jimmy and cradling his cheek in his hand. Jimmy leaned into it before kissing Scott's forehead.

"It will be okay." He assured. Scott nodded, using his sleeve to wipe the rest of the gold off his lips as he followed Jimmy to where the carriages were. They'd be using pegasi to fly through the mountains, and then allowing them to walk the rest of the way once they got closer. Pegasi weren't common, but Rivendale seemed to have some of the last of them. And they were all taken care of as if they were the last of them.

"There they are! We've got a good journey ahead of us, so I hope you've packed things to keep you occupied." Lizzie opened the carriage door. Joel was already in there, reading some sort of book. He didn't look up as they climbed in, their things being stowed away.

Takeoff was easy, and getting through the mountains was hardly an issue. It felt like a good start. Scott watched the window wondering when it would all go wrong.

"Hey Liz." Joel closed his book finally. They all looked at him. Jimmy made a face as if he knew Joel was about to say something stupid.

"Why would they go for an avian if Jim's a fish?" He asked. Lizzie blinked before rolling her eyes at her husband.

"You are an idiot."

"No I'm not!" His voice squeaked. Scott smiled as Lizzie pointed out the obvious. "Scott doesn't like the water!! An avians bound to not!"

"They could be a duck- or a swan, or a flamingo-" Lizzie listed several water birds.

"What are the odds of that even being true?" Joel scoffed.

"High enough that it's worth taking a visit! Besides, the child doesn't need to reside in the water. It would be more convenient for them to fly especially when Scott and Jimmy already travel so much. What- do you want another fish in the mountains? Do you remember how hard Jimmy had it at first-" Lizzie chewed Joel out, Joel's face growing pink.

Jimmy snorted and let Scott lean on him. "You tell him, Lizzie." He encouraged. This seemed to only made Joel more upset and embarrassed.

"Coming from you, small and damaged egg" he crossed his arms and pouted. Jimmy just snickered and pressed his cheek into Scott's hair.

"I'm not the one who forgot some birds like water. Scott just doesn't like to be submerged." Jimmy announced proudly.

"I don't like to be wet and frozen after" Scott clarified. "And you always take me to the beach in the swamp. Do you know how gross that water is?" Scott hid his smile. Joel grinned as he saw it.

"Hey! I live in that swamp!"

"I know you do, Jim. I know you do" Scott closed his eyes, still smiling as he thought about their last trip there.

A figure loomed over Scott, making him feel small. It was colder than he was used to, and Scott had ditched his coat since they were going outside the mountains. The figure glowed gold and had antlers that reached far enough scott would have to actually strain his neck to see the end of them. Aeor.

"You seek answers." the voice was soft, sending both nerves and comfort in Scott. He couldn't open his mouth, his fingers finding his lips and coming away covered in gold. A sign he wasn't allowed to speak. He didn't have the right to, not in front of his God.

"You seek a child." He felt Aeor get closer, circling him like he was some sort of pray.

"You seek family." Scott could hear his heart in his ears.

"After what has happened? You seek family?" Aeor got closer. The cold was sinking into his bones and as much as it hurt, he found the figure comforting. This was what he imagined death would feel like.

"And with an outsider?" Scott knew Aeor didn't bless his marriage. He knew it only caused a riff between him and his God.

"A child I must share?" Aeor asked. There was no emotion to the voice. This wasn't Aeors child. This was His- Scott's.

"… A child that is not mine?" Aeor asked, now directly in front of Scott.

"Any child of yours is a child of mine. Any child under the veil is mine. And you're asking me to share?" Scott didn't know who Aeor would be sharing the child with. It wasn't like there was another deity that was claiming them.

"…You seek a child." Aeor asked again. Scott couldn't breathe, yet he wasn't suffocating.

"Are you worthy of a child?" Scott felt numb now. The cold was seeping into everything in him.

"Maybe. Maybe the champion is worthy." Aeors clawed hands grabbed Scotts face. A shadow of a stag appeared behind Aeor, finding Scott and charging right at him. Aeor held Scott's face so he couldn't run. All he could do was close his eyes.

"I don't know, This hasn't happened in a while, and He never actually told me what to do-" Jimmys voice was why Scott opened his eyes. He was blurry, and the air was still thin.

"Oh! Oh!" Joels voice was in front of him. Jimmy was warm and scott sighed, closing his eyes for just a moment more to cuddle into him. "He's awake! Scott- Scottie, come on, You froze the door-" Joel looked genuinely concerned for him. Scott opened his eyes again and looked to the other side of him. Frost lined the window and Lizzie, Joel and Jimmy were shivering.

"Scott?" Lizzie gently moved Joel back to his seat next to her. "Scott, you're okay. We're about ten minutes before we touch ground, and then another thirty before we arrive. You're in the carriage still, no disturbances. You fell asleep." Lizzie held Joel's hand. Joel still looked worried. Scott blinked and looked at Jimmy who's eyes were just focused on Scott. Scott turned his head into Jimmy, breathing slowly to control himself as Jimmy hugged him tightly.

"He's okay" Jimmy spoke up for him. Lizzie and Joel gave no response. Jimmy just squeezed him.

His first real dream with Aeor, and it didn't go the way he would have hoped. There wasn't an order to stand down, or a declaration of disappointment. There was a sense of possession though. Something that scared Scott all the same. He didn't want his- a child to be dragged into the church the same way he was. There may not be a Xornoth this time, nor an Exor. But there was the fear all the same. The fear that the child would be used to fill the gaps Scott couldn't seem to fail. He didn't even know what to tell Jimmy. Would Jimmy even want to have a child if he told him?

Scott didn't speak until they touched ground. "Are we being dropped off?" Scott asked. Joel looked at him and opened his mouth, Lizzie covering it for him.

"Yes. You'll be dropped off in town. After your meeting, We will regroup at the Town Hall."

"I thought Grian and Pearl weren't going to see us?"

"They won't have a reason to ask questions. We are spending the night with them, and saying you two wanted a vacation. They won't know anything you don't tell them." Lizzie promised. "Joel and I will keep them busy, keep them both out of your business. You have our word" Lizzie offered her hand to Scott. Scott found himself smiling at how careful and serious Lizzie was taking this.

"Grian can shove it. Him and Pearl both" Jimmy laughed. "They're too nosy for their own good. Not knowing this won't kill them." Jimmy grinned at Scott. Scott smiled back, his heart fluttering. This was real. This was happening. They might leave here with a child in mind to call theirs.

Suddenly Aeors voice didn't seem so loud compared to Jimmy's.

Chapter Text

There was so much to talk about. So many forms to go over, so many questions, so much to remember and learn. Scott had been through many meetings that he didn't want to attend, sit through so many lectures, advisories, but this might have been the worst of it all. He swears Lizzie had sent a file over explaining the situation as well as who they were. This was supposed to save time, yet Scott was struggling to pay attention as he was asked question after question. At some point Jimmy had started answering most the time, trying to hide his own annoyance. What was the point of writing a letter and having Lizzie set this up if they'd have to answer all these questions anyways.

"Right, and you are here from the…"

"Cod Empire and Rivendale." Jimmy drummed his fingers against his chair.

"And you have experience with avian habits, grooming, and care?" She looked back up at them. Scott's wings ruffled and they both stared at the woman as if she had four eyes.

"Sorry, why are we going through these questions? You have a folder on us, correct?" Scott heard the words fall out of his mouth. His face flushed as the social worker stared at him.

"I'm confirming identity, ensuring there's so mistakes and we are all on the same page." She eyed Scott. "Making sure you understand how serious this is." She looked back at the papers in front of her. Scott's face warmed up and he sat back, trying to decide if it was worth it to snap back.

"Sorry, we're just very anxious and nervous. We want this to go well" Jimmy excused. The woman sighed and looked back at Jimmy.

"I understand. This is a big step, specifically for a merging of Kingdoms. But because this is such a big role, we have to ensure the child won't fold under this pressure."

"We don't intend to involve them in any politics until they ask, or it's absolutely necessary. This is about family." Jimmy found Scott's hand. Scott's vision was blurry and it was hard to listen to them.

"You're still in a high social standing. This could be extremely stressful to the wrong kid." She sounded much more sympathetic.

"Which…" she checked the papers again. "I have to do some work on my end. However I think I have a kid in mind for you both. I'll let you take a look at his file…just the basic information. If you'll excuse me." She stood up, moving to a filing cabinet and pulling a folder out, gently setting it on the desk in front of them. And then she left with the other papers.

Jimmy and Scott stared at the folder but didn't move. Scott didn't know if he had it in him. This was a bad idea. He let the pressure get to him, but now it was clear he was not fit to be a parent. He didn't have the parental instincts he should, nor the first knowledge about how to raise a kid. He didn't want his staff to raise the kid the same was he himself was raised.

"Thomas. Tommy." Jimmy had picked the file up, opening it. The kid in the photo was grinning, Scott stared at the picture before carefully taking it out of the photo. It was strange looking at him. He had blond hair, similar to Jimmys. It was curlier, like what Scott's looked like when it was shorter and had dried naturally. His eyes were a striking blue, nearly matching Scott's. His skin was tan like jimmys, and he seemed to be taller, maybe as tall as Scott was at his age. But he was just as lanky and scrawny as Jimmy. If they tried, maybe they could pull it off as this being their biological kid. Only major difference was the way he grinned, seeming much more energetic and mischievous than him or his husband could ever be. That, and how small his wings looked. Scott's were large, patterned like an owl, enough feathers to hide his bones from the cold. Tommy's looked thin, small, barely able to keep him in the air.

"His report is really extensive." Jimmy flipped through some papers clipped together. "He's been here since he was eight. Almost five years" Jimmy checked the dates listed. Scott looked over, setting the photo on the desk as he took the papers from Jimmy. Jimmy grabbed the photo in return.

"Oh- here, he looks pretty healthy though. His medical record is fine, so we don't have to worry about him getting sick super easily" Jimmy smiled. He talked as if they were going to adopt him.

[XX/XX/XXXX] Thomas was turned into the Avianary Orphanage at age 8 after his parents died from unknown causes, (most likely the Boogie Virus according to popular death records at the time) and was left with no family to be turned over to.

Thomas was placed into temporary care of Foster family 'Watson'. While there, there were several reports of [Thomas] "instigating" and "aggravating" his foster siblings. He was seen as a flight risk, and would "press boundaries and challenge rules". At age 10 the 'Watson''s forfeited guardianship of [Thomas] and returned his care to the Avianary Orphanage. He was given up due to his "difficult" nature and "unwillingness to be apart of the family". He was deemed unsafe for the other two 'Watson' children to be around.

Thomas was placed into care of the 'Awedu' family for temporary care. There have been reports of similar incidents and notes since being in the care. Thomas is "reckless" and "uncaring" for the family, and has little regard to how his actions effect both him and the people around him. While the 'Awedu' is still fostering him, we will need to come back to review his behavior. [XX/XX/XXXX]

Scott stared down at the reports. Tommy was a "problem child". A family gave up on him, and even the system is worried that his current family will do the same.

"He's got an impressive disciplinary record" Jimmy leaned into Scott's arm. Scott just looked back at the picture.

"He's been through two families in five years. He lost his parents at eight. Scott pointed out. "I think that would make any kid have enough disciplinary issues." Scott mumbled before looking at the door as the woman walked back in. She smiled and went to sit down before she saw Tommy's picture laid on her desk. He face seemed to pale and she promptly grabbed the picture.

"It- oh gosh, I am so sorry- I grabbed the wrong folder, you weren't supposed to see these- I have a much better suited child-" she turned around grabbing another folder.

"You can disregard that-" She turned around, holding her hand out for Tommy's file. Scott and Jimmy stared at her, then looked back at each other.

"Sorry?" Jimmy smiled. "I think-"

"Oh don't even worry about it. Thomas is trouble, I can guarantee you wouldn't find him suitable for you." She laughed, clearly strained.

"Tommy seems like a great kid." Jimmy shifted. Scott squinted at her.

"I think we're okay with continuing to talk about Tommy." He agreed. The woman looked taken back and shook her head but sat down, the other folder in front of her.

"Thomas-"

"Tommy."

"Thomas." She affirmed. "Is a special kid. The last kid we would ever allow a royal family to take in. My girl here is much softer, very quiet." She smiled at the two. Something in Scott ticked. He was told to be quiet his whole life. He didn't need more quiet. If they wanted more quiet they wouldn't be here.

"A loud Ruler is heard better than one who sits in the background." Scott sat up a little straighter. He held Tommy's papers close as if she would take them right out of his hand.

"With all respect-"

"My husband has made his point. I think we should move forward with Tommy. What would the next processes be?"

"With all respect, Codfather" the woman was more firm with her words. "Tommy is not a good candidate. The folder was given to you by mistake." she looked increasingly annoyed with them. But the more she tried to talk them down, the more Scott felt attached to Tommy. The more he wanted to meet him to find out the other side of the story. A kid didn't just act out for no reason. Even Xornoth had a reason when he had acted out.

"Then we're not interested. Thank you for your time." Scott began to stand up, Jimmy staring at him before scrambling to put all the papers back together.

"Well- okay- okay fine, Look" She stood up, almost reaching to grab Scott. The look Scott sent her way made her retract her hand just as fast. They may not be in their own kingdoms, but there was still common sense for how you treated royalty. "I can schedule a sit down with him. But I'm warning you both, you've seen his files. He is not an easy kid." She looked at them both.

"Then we will learn." Scott nodded, staying standing. He tried to remain calm. He was more than annoyed though, this felt like a waste of time by now and they had to argue to even be listened to.

"And you can't just return him if you decide you don't want him. The six month period is for the kid to determine if they feel safe and if you are good parents." She slowly sat back down. Scott watched her, pressing his lips into a line and waiting for her to be fully seated before he sat down himself.

"Yet the Watson's were able to return him?" Scott pressed. Jimmy just nodded along, letting Scott take this. Jimmy was charming, but people often looked passed him. It annoyed Scott, but all he could do in the moment was speak up for the both of them.

"They were not planning on adopting. They were a foster placement."

"Yet they returned him" Scott deadpanned.

"He was a danger to the other kids." Scott relaxed his face, putting his hands in his lap as his husband opened the folder again, looking at it. The look on Jimmy's face as he read through the notes and looked at the photo was something Scott wanted to capture. There was so much sympathy and yearning. Tommy was their kid. He was sure of it by now.

"We're here until tomorrow. Can we meet him then?" Jimmy asked.

"Well- I believe so."

"We still have to meet with our counsel and fill the paperwork out, but it would be nice to meet him before we leave." Jimmy handed her the folder.

"Of course…" She still looked unsure. Scott couldn't be more sure about this though.

"Pearl can't keep her nose out of anything." Grian shook his head. "So nosy. Like, here I am, just talking to someone and suddenly she's all up in my space asking me what we were talking about and how I met them." Grian waved his fork around before shoving it in his mouth.

"Well, who was he talking to, Pearl?" Jimmy grinned. Pearl waved her finger at him and then Joel who asked the same question.

"I don't share secrets now, I may be nosy, but I respect privacy" She winked at grian. Scott pushed the food around his plate as he listened. His mind was so far gone, it was hard to even focus on what his friends were saying.

"Speaking of nosy-" Pearl spoke up. Grian jumped in to finish his sisters sentence.

"Where did you two go today?" Grian pointed his fork at Jimmy and Scott. Scott stopped chewing his food and looked at the twins. Jimmys face flushed a little and he looked at Scott to see what he would say.

"Around town. I haven't been here since Scar and Grian got engaged. And that was a while ago." Scott shrugged. He felt everyone's eyes on them, but it was all different energy. He hadn't gotten to debrief with Lizzie yet. They didn't know how it went, or the issues they had. Joel and Lizzie were sat in nerves while Pearl and Grian was just a curiosity.

"Yeah, But where did you go?" Grian pressed. "there's a lot to do and see around here."

"We just explored." Jimmy rolled his eyes.

"Explored." Pearl squinted at them.

"Do you really want to know what they did?" Joel leaned forward on the table. "Knowing them, they probably found any cheesy location and snogged each others faces off" Joel looked back to them.

"Oi!" Jimmy shouted. "You're one to talk! You and Lizzie seem to be connected at the lips whenever someone turns around!" Jimmy argued back. Grian snickered only for both boys to turn to him and accuse him.

"As if you're any better with scar!"

"Any time you see Mumbo you cling to him!" they shouted. Grian cackled and held his stomach as he leaned back in his chair. Scott found himself smiling at the now squabbling boys. For just a little while they could just be on a vacation to see friends. Jimmy was back with his "bad boys" while Scott got to catch up with Pearl. His smile remained until he caught Pearl staring at him, her eyes wide and a little unsettling as she watched him. even when he looked at her more obviously, she kept contact. Pearl wasn't one to back away from a challenge. Scott kept her eye contact until her eyes started watering and Grian had hit her arm to get her attention.

"When you and Scott are done talking telepathically, can you please go get the crumble?" He asked. Pearl ruffled her wings.

"Yeah. But we need plates too. Scott, help?" Pearl was staring at him again. Pearl was some sort of Duck hybrid it seemed, compared to Grians Parrot genes. This being said, her eyes should not be as wide and blue as they seemingly were. It was a little disturbing.

"Yeah, of course." Scott stood up. He looked to Lizzie who just smiled at him. He really wished she would have substituted herself in, but he couldn't use his sister-in-law as a shield forever. Pearl was one of his best friends. She'd be even more suspicious if he didn't follow behind her. So with a squeeze of a hand from Jimmy, he got up and followed behind Pearl.

For someone who had her own sub-kingdom, she dressed so informally. Her and Grian both, only saving their dress clothes for events. When they were younger that would always bother Scott. It was unnatural seeing a royal in anything so casual. Even now, she wore a white button up and some sort of blue slacks. It wasn't the most casual he's seen her, but it was far more casual than any of the rest of them were.

"So. Talk to me. What's happening? Are you having Jimmy troubles? Do I need to talk to him?" Pearl asked, pulling plates down and setting them in Scotts hands. This also often bothered Scott when he was younger. Pearl and Grian were raised to do their own chores. House staff were for big events, casual upkeep and political reasons. There was no person who would bring you food just because you said you were craving something.

"No. I'm not having Jimmy troubles" Scott rolled his eyes as Pearl opened the oven, taking a dish out. It smelled amazing, and Scott wanted to be a child who snuck tastes of food again.

"O-o-okay. Then what is it? You've been all weird during dinner."

"How am I being weird?" Scott watched her set the dish down. There was crumble spread over some sort of yellow jelly, with a floral smell. It was sweet and it reminded Scott of all the times he would visit Pearl in the Gilded Helianthia.

"You're not commenting on anything. You don't never not say anything" Pearl put her hands on her hips. Scott looked at her.

"What?" He smiled just a little.

"You always make some sort of comment. Yet you've been so quiet over dinner and you've hardly even given Grian or Joel any weird looks. Do you know how much weird things they've said? So many!" Pearl forced herself to laugh, but Scott saw the concern in her face.

"I just have a lot I'm thinking about." He shrugged. Pearl stared at him for a moment before sighing.

"Fine. But you're on vacation to not worry, silly goose." She picked the dish back up carefully. "So get out of that silly noggin of yours and be more present. I'm happy you're here! It's been forever" Pearl walked in front of him back down the hall. Scott rolled his eyes and sighed, following after her.

"She was fine. She was just worried about me because I wasn't commenting on how weird Joel eats" Scott glared at Jimmy as his lap was used as a foot rest. He didn't push Jimmy off though, just resting his hands on his husbands ankles.

"So you didn't tell her?" Joel asked. Scott shook his head.

"If they knew, It would be a big deal. Nothing is official, and technically we can't introduce the child to anyone other than immediate family and royal staff who are sworn under confidentiality." Scott watched Jimmy get comfortable. The nice thing about residing in Grian and Pearls kingdom was the fact they still had things to attend to. After dinner meetings about something to do with Grians marriage and Pearl officiating.

"And you know how grian and Pearl get" Jimmy put his arm over his eyes. Scott squeezed his ankle and nodded. Lizzie smiled at them both and nodded.

"So… how was it? Any progress? Did you get to meet anyone?" She asked. Her eyes were wide and she was leaned forward a bit to pay closer attention to them both. Scott considered telling her the troubles they had- the way the social worker seemed to be unprofessional in the way she handled things.

"We're meeting a kid before we leave tomorrow." Scott informed. Lizzie's eyes lit up and she clasped her hands together.

"Really?! Oh that's great! Can you tell me anything?" She asked. Jimmy moved his arm to peek at Scott. Scott looked back at him and they had this moment of silence.

"Course they can't, Lizzie. Confidentially and all that. Plus, they're just meeting them. Nothing official." Joel stepped in. Lizzie sighed and looked at her husband.

"I'm just curious" she sat back in her seat. Scott nodded along.

"Once we know, you'll be the first people we share with." Scott promised her. Lizzie nodded.

"I better be."

"We, Lizzie. we." Joel frowned.

"Right." Lizzie smiled at her husband, kissing him on the cheek.

Scott looked back to Jimmy who just stared up at the ceiling. Something was bothering Jimmy, that was obvious. Jimmy was never good at hiding his feelings. It's what Scott loved about him. "I think we should head to bed. Jimmy and I will want to still have breakfast with Grian and Pearl before we leave." Scott spoke up. Jimmy peaked up and stared at him, but didn't speak. Lizzie looked at Joel, then the two and nodded.

"You're right. Plus I'm sure you're just anxious to meet them." She stood up, pulling Joel with her.

"Sleep well, don't stress, if you need anything, we are down the hallway." Jimmy and him had stood up by now, hugging Lizzie goodnight. Joel waved, lingering for a moment as if he wanted to say something before Lizzie dragged him out with her.

Scott didn't say anything right away, grabbing Jimmys hand and pulling him closer to kiss him. Jimmy let Scott pull him, kissing back. His hands found Scott's waist and Scott wrapped his arms around Jimmys neck, letting their kiss stay sweet. The kiss lasted a while before Jimmy just pulled back, grinning and resting his forehead on Scott's. Scott smiled and counted the seconds as he breathed in, regaining his normal heart rate and breathing rhythm. Moments like these allowed Scott to forget the world existed. He had Jimmy, and he was okay with just being with Jimmy. Nothing else mattered.

But reality was always lingering. A tug was always at the back of his mind. His hands found found itself in Jimmys hair, brushing through the short hairs in the back. "What's on your mind?" Scott's voice was a whisper agaisnt Jimmys lips. Jimmy squeezed Scott and moved so his face was hidden in the elf's neck. Scott combed his fingers further through the Codfathers hair and waited patiently.

"I worry what everyone else will say once it's announced." Jimmy spoke. He kept his face hidden in Scott's neck. Scott closed his eyes for a moment.

"What does it matter what everyone else thinks?" Scott found himself saying. It's the same thing Jimmy has said to him a multitude of times. The words felt foreign in his mouth.

"A lot. We're under constant eyes- is that really fair to put a kid through?" Jimmy asked. Scott kept his breathing slow.

"We can do it in a better way than what we've gone through." Scott stared at a photo on the wall. A depiction of the sun and the moon dancing together. There was an abnormal amount of the imagery around the castle. It was like Pearl and Grians parents made that their whole personality for a majority of their lives. Which became amusing once pearls kingdom used the sun as a symbol and Grian never ditched the sun for his own adornments.

"They're our child before they're the kingdoms child." Scott grew up knowing he was for Rivendale, and Jimmy was raised knowing he'd build the Cod Empire. They never got to just be apart of a family. "We have control over this. Maybe this started because they want us to have an heir… but by the time the kid is even 18, we'll still be very fit to rule. An heir doesn't matter. A family does." Scott didn't know where he was pulling this from. Maybe some sort of his subconscious that craved the family he had always read in stories. maybe he craved the thing he never had.

"We are the parents. Not our counsel. Not our staff. Us." Scott shifted, pulling Jimmy away so he could hold his face. Jimmy stared at Scott and Scott smiled back.

"What if they don't like us?" Jimmy whispered. Scott's stomach swirled. He had the same fear. Scott had been told he was intimidating, cold, hard to get along with. But Jimmy? Jimmy worrying about this?

"Then they're not the kid for us." Scott pressed a soft kiss to his husbands lips. Jimmy smiled back.

"I'm so lucky I have you" he choked out. Scott felt like the air was knocked out of him.

"And I'm even luckier" he whispered back.

"Next time you have to stay longer and actually talk to us. I feel like we hardly saw you" pearl clung to Scott. Scoff hugged her back, smiling as she rocked him back and forth.

"We will. This time was just to get away, but next time it will be to see you. You can always visit too." Scott reminded. Pearl pulled back and held Scott by his shoulders.

"I know. We should both get better about seeing each other." Pearl tilted her head. It was weird to think at one point before Scott took charge of some of his life, he was supposed to marry Pearl. He wondered how that would have ever worked.

Scott nodded. "You should send me some sunflowers so we can make the sunflower crumble back at home." Scott smiled. "It was very good."

"Or… I just make it every time you visit." Scott smiled.

"Or you just send me the flowers" he teased back. She finally let him go to pounce on Jimmy, squeezing him until he squeaked. Grian moved over to Scott, staring at him with squinted eyes. Scott stared back, raising his eyebrows.

"I don't know what's going on, but you can always ask for help." Grian looked awkward as he said it.

"I know" Scott nodded.

"Okay." Grian hesitated.

"I look forward to your wedding." Scott smiled. Grian relaxed.

"Me too." He swayed before stepping forward and hitting Scott's arm lightly.

"You're not alone" he reminded.

"Nor are you" Scott hit back.

Tommy was already seated in the restaurant. They got a private booth, and were allowed to stay as long or as little as they needed. Lizzie and Joel assured them they would find ways to pass time and to not worry about them. It still made Scott feel guilty they were holding the couple up from going home.

Scott felt Jimmys hand grab his as they saw the blond sitting alone, fiddling with something in his hands. He looked… like a child. Just like the photo, but a little older. He was twelve, turning thirteen by mid spring. He was skinny, maybe a little more than a thirteen year old should be. What made Scott's stomach sink the most was the fact the end of his already weak looking wings was a straight line of feathers. His wings were clipped. He couldn't fly.

Scott's wings were clipped from ages thirteen to nineteen. It was an awful feeling and it stunted Scott's ability to be comfortable with his wings. Even now he struggled flying sometimes. It hurt him to see Tommy suffering the same, even in a kingdom full of avians. Who thought that was a good idea?

Scott looked at Jimmy to try to see what his husband was thinking. Jimmy had this sense of hope in his face, looking at Tommy as if he was a beam of light. Scott pulled him forward to Tommy, smiling as they approached. Tommy took one look at them and whispered what Scott thought to be; "what the fuck."

"Tommy?" Jimmy asked. Tommy looked around before looking back at the couple.

"I suppose. They didn't tell me to dress up all fancy 'n shit." Tommy was blunt, but he looked so afraid. Scott glanced around trying to see if the social worker was nearby. She had to have been. But Scott didn't see her.

"Oh- oh no! It's okay! Honestly we should have dressed down" Jimmy pulled Scott's chair out for him, Scott sitting down.

"You're both men?" Tommy asked. Scott blinked, staring at the kid. He didn't make sense.

"Yes." Scott raised an eyebrow.

"So you're gay?"

"…yes?" Scott glanced at Jimmy who looked just as confused.

"Oh- shit- sorry, I'm not- I was just- I don't care-" Tommy fumbled, his face turning red.

"You're okay- it was a question. You're allowed questions." Jimmy tried to ease the kids worry. Tommy nodded and shifted around, his wings twitching. Scott couldn't stop finding the clipped part of his wings.

"Uh- oh- uhm…" Tommy looked between them both. "They told me your names- but I forgot-" he looked around.

"I'm Scott." Scott reached a hand out for Tommy. Tommy looked at it but didn't take it. "And this is my husband Jimmy." He retracted his hand. there was a moment of silence before Jimmy inhaled to talk.

"Listen- I'm sorry for wasting your time, I really don't think this is what you think it is. I'm really not looking for parents and I'm not really the perfect kid, and they told me to be on my best behavior but I don't wanna be put in a house with some stuck-up's" Tommy started. Scott blinked and stared. Jimmy let go of any words he was about to say. Scott couldn't tell if Tommy genuinely wasn't interested or if he was self sabotaging.

"Tommy." Scott said, trying to be firm but gentle in his tone. "We want to try. We want…" Scott didn't actually know how to say what he wanted to say. "We don't want you to be stuck in a home you don't want. But we want to give you better opportunities." Scott cringed at the way it Sounded like some sort of job proposal. Tommy looked a little disturbed and Scott wanted to curl up and die under this table.

"Why? I mean, look at you. All- all pristine" Tommy said the word like it burned him. "And you want me? Did you read my file? I'm fighting with everyone right now and I'm a pain in the ass-"

"Why?" Jimmy asked. Tommy paused.

"Huh?"

"Why are you fighting with everyone?"

"Because I'm difficult." Tommy crossed his arms. Scott didn't know if he felt bad or if he was tired of this already.

"And why are you difficult?" Jimmy pressed on. Tommy blinked and had to think for a long while. In their silance, Tommy was brought a drink in a plastic cup while Jimmy and Scott got hot tea.

"Tommy, we did read your file" Scott didn't like when he started to speak without his brain knowing what he was going to say. "And we can't force you, but… we've both been through a weird and unfair childhood." Scott saw the curiosity rise in the kid.

"And we want to try to offer you a better chance. An escape from… whatever is happening here. In a place that's far away from here, a new start, no one breathing down your neck about whatever they're breathing down your neck about-" Scott didn't know why he said that. They'd have to work on manners eventually, and royal etiquette. Unless…

"What do you mean?"

Jimmy looked like he was hesitant. "What did they tell you about us, Tommy?" He asked. Tommy looked up as he thought about it.

"They told me to not mess this up, and that you were kind of just being nice. Something about you being super important. Which, if you're dressed like that, I can imagine you've got something going on. Or you're just gay." Tommy covered his mouth.

"Sorry- I didn't-" Tommy tried recovering. Scott laughed. He actually laughed. Jimmy jumped in shock and looked at Scott, hesitant as he laughed along.

"We live castles, Tommy." Scott smiled. Tommy looked a little more embarrassed and uncomfortable. "And there's a lot of unfunny people in the castle." He squeezed Jimmys hand. "actually- there's a distinct lack of funny people." Scott's sense of humor was weird because of it. He knew that much.

"It's a lot, Tommy. We know that. And if you really don't want this, than that's okay." Scott looked at Jimmy. Jimmy nodded.

"But you seem… you seem like a kid. And we're looking for a kid. And I think you'd like having no siblings and lots, and lots of space." Jimmy tried to not make this sound like a sales pitch. It was quite hard though.

"…so… you're like- royalty?" Tommy whispered.

"Yeah." Jimmy smiled.

"…would that make me a prince?"

"If we adopted you." Scott nodded.

"And princes get tons of bitches? And get to boss people around?" Scott and Jimmy gave each other a look.

"Well…sort of." Jimmy shrugged. Scott nodded.

"You definitely have a lot of people who like to talk to you. But we wouldn't put you in any position of politics or socializing that you didn't want to be in." Scott couldn't get a good read on Tommy by now.

"…why do you want to be parents? Be my parents?" Tommy crossed his arms. Jimmy and Scott both just looked at him. Tommy scowled.

"You don't know why you want to be parents?" he asked. It was. Fair response.

"Do you want the truth, Tommy?" Jimmy asked. Tommy looked a little shocked before deciding.

"Hit me, big man." He challenged.

"Our royal advisors are being real fools right now. They keep bugging us about children, and they want us to progress the family tree's. My own Empire isn't as…"

"Pushy" Scott finished for him. Jimmy nodded.

"Less Pushy. But Scott's people are a little…"

"They're stuck up." Scott went back to Tommy's language.

"And you're not?" Tommy looked at Scott.

"I am." He admitted. Jimmy frowned at Scott but didn't argue.

"Anyways… we want them to stop bugging us. But we also just… it's really quiet right now. And we really want to try our hand at this whole parent thing." Jimmy watched Tommy. Tommy just stared at Scott. Scott didn't know that he fully wanted to try being a parent; but he did want his counsel off his back, and he couldn't deny there was a silence that he didn't like in their homes.

Tommy and Scott stared at each other for a long time, Jimmy letting them do their thing. Scott had stared too much this weekend. He needed a break from staring.

"We can't take you home today, Tommy." Scott spoke, softer this time. "But if you want an escape, if you want to get out of whatever this is." He never left Tommy's eyes.

"We'll bring you home. We'll sign all the papers, we'll get your room ready." Scott could see Tommy's lip quivering.

"But we understand if this is too much. If this sounds too overwhelming, or if this isn't what you want." Scott saw her. The social worker had gotten up to order from the bar.

"We have to get going now, but we'll be in touch, okay? If you want to write us letters, you can. We will write back." Jimmy grabbed Scott's hand again and helped him stand up. Tommy just watched them, not saying anything. Scott thought about saying something as a goodbye, but he just nodded at the kid.

"Goodbye, for now, Tommy" Jimmy smiled, pulling Scott with him to the front. Scott followed, looking back just before they left the building. And for a moment, as he did look back, Scott saw gold dripping from Tommy's wings, his eyes reflecting the color, and his lips streaked with it. And then he walked outside, the image stuck in his mind.

Chapter Text

"When we said you needed a child, this was not what we meant" Solstice stared at Scott. His lead advisor was very much not thrilled with the news of his and Jimmys advancement. "I mean- By the time he'd be ready to rule, You'd still be well and abled! What is the point then?" He asked. Scott watched him.

"The point isn't to have and heir, it's to have a kid. A family?" Scott pressed his lips into a line.

"Scott. You cannot be serious here." Solstice stared at him. Scott shrugged.

"I am. We don't plan on involving Tommy in politics unless he asks."

"Then what are we to do when you retire? And what about the Cod Empire? What will they do?" Scott was tired of this already. He knew they wouldn't get it. They never did. Maybe it was their job to think about the kingdom, but it would be nice if they'd also remember Scott was a person who was more than just a King.

"If tommy really wants to be an heir, then we'll figure it out. Maybe we will let him rule the Cod Empire as a Sub-Kingdom. low stress, easy for him to manage while he grows up."

"And you think they'd be happy with that? He's not a merfolk, he's an avian."

"That's not for you to determine. Thats for them" Scott stayed firm. Solstice's eye twitched, and he inhaled sharply.

"You will still be expected to have a child. One that's biologically yours." Solstice informed. Scotts stomach sank.

"Who are you to determine that?"

"It's for the greater good of the kingdoms. Both of them." Solstice crossed his arms. Scott tried to not clench his jaw.

"I think we'll be okay with Tommy for now."

"I wish you would have told us about this before acting. There's so many more children here in Rivendale, or even the Cod Empire. Someone that's of your blood." Solstice tried to act kinder, letting his voice sound sweeter and more concerned. Scott didn't buy it. He knew Solstice. He knew the faux kindness and worry.

"We thought about it, but decided this was our best option. This is our kid, not the kingdoms."

"Anything about you is about the kingdom. You are the kingdom." Solstice stared at him. Scott felt like a child again, being reminded that anything he did reflected everyone that lived under him.

"I know." Scott looked down at his lap.

There was so much to think about. But it felt weird being alone when Jimmy also had a say in everything. He wished they could have made this announcement together (He didn't want to face his counsels scorn without support). His eyes caught a yellow canary sitting outside the tall windows, a scroll hanging from a ribbon was in it's beak.

"What do we need to do to prepare for his arrival?" Solstice asked. Scott knew this was now out of obligation. His advisors would be sour about this for a long while. But what could they do when Scott was their King?

"I want his room close to mine. Leave my brothers room alone, use the one to the right and across from me. Reset it, leave it blank for now, we will let Tommy decide what he wants to do with it." Scott looked down at his list. "I have his measurements, we will need casual clothing as well as Rivendale clothing. The cod empire will take care of their side, but I suggest you keep in communication with them. It would be nice to have a few clothing items of a combination." Scott felt more composed as he gave orders out, Solstice scribbling in his own note pad.

"And there will be no announcements to the public until I say." Scott looked back up. "This is my child. You will do your best to remember that." Scott stared at Solstice. Solstice just nodded in response.

The Cod Empire was always sticky and Scott didn't normally love the feeling. But as he landed on the main dock, he embraced it, inhaling the smell of his husbands home. The staff of Jimmy's empire seemed much more excited about their announcement, congratulating Scott as he walked past them, expressing their excitement for the couple. It was nice to be celebrated rather than berated.

"It's so nice to see you two moving forward with this. You will make amazing parents." Jimmy's staff lead him to Jimmy's room. Scott smiled and nodded along.

"Thank you. That's very kind of you to say."

"Well, we all know it. Go on now, he's been pacing waiting for you." She ushered Scott inside the room. Jimmy was still talking when Scott entered. He looked too formal for Scotts comfort, addressing his small team, focusing on preparations for secrecy and confidentiality.

"I want to make sure we have a medical team that understands Avians. If we have to outsource, that's okay too. Give them their own wing, and make sure we have the resources needed. We are unsure where we will reside for the beginning of this, but I'd like to be prepared." Jimmy glanced back as Scott entered. He looked back at his team before doing a double take, Looking at Scott and grinning, his whole Codfather act dropping within an instant.

"Okay, lets break. If there's any questions, please pass them to Cane" Jimmy pointed to his note-keeper. The man gave a thumbs up and everyone seemed to disperse instantly as Jimmy turned around, Grabbing Scott and pulling him into a very tight hug. Scott smiled into his shoulder and squeezed back, laughing as Jimmy rocked them back and forth dramatically before kissing his cheek messily. Scott did love how openly affectionate they could be here. In Rivendale, they had to keep a lot of affection behind closed doors. It wasn't taboo, but it was seen as improper and it often made the staff feel awkward seeing their King be so openly affectionate.

"You're here!"

"I am!" Scott smiled, leaning in, their noses bumping before Scott kissed him.

"How'd it go? Are they okay with it? They're not shunning you are they?" Jimmy asked, pulling back to look at Scott properly. Scott looked up at the ceiling. It was a skylight giving way to the clouds and flora around them.

"They're not pleased." He tried to say it without sounding disheartened. "They…they still want us to have a child together." Scott's hands found Jimmys. He stared at their hands to avoid looking at Jimmy.

"But we are having a child together." Jimmy knew what Scott meant, but he still played dumb. It made Scott smile a little.

"A biological child."

"Tommy is totally our biological child. Long lost. Have you seen him? Looks just like you. Us. Looks just like us." Jimmy grinned. Scott rolled his eyes and gently shoved Jimmy.

"You're ridiculous " Scott couldn't stop the smile that washed over his face.

"But you love me!" Jimmy gasped, hugging Scott dramatically. Scott's wings expanded and he laughed, clinging to Jimmy as he was barely lifted off his feet from Jimmy squeezing him.

"I do! I do love you" Scott giggled.

"Oh! Oh! I have to show you something!" Jimmy gasped, putting Scott down and pulling back. Scott raised his eyebrows.

"You do?"

"Yes! Come on- it's super exciting" Jimmy beamed. Scott's whole body felt warm as he followed his husband out of the building and into his own space, then into Jimmys room. Scott loved that the spaces were separate, Jimmys personal space was his own space. His meeting rooms were away from his living areas, and everything had a place. He could escape if he wanted. He could hide if he wanted.

Jimmy closed the door and moved over to his bed where a letter resided. "Look what I got this morning!" Jimmy held it out.

"I haven't opened it! I wanted to wait for you- I feel like you should be the one to open it anyways, you know? This is such a big thing and I just…" jimmy was rambling. Scott grinned and moved forward, grabbing Jimmys face, squeezing his cheeks.

"You're too cute" Scott teased. Jimmy laughed and pulled away with ease.

"Scott!" He looked so bashful. Scott couldn't get over how in love he was. "Just open it!" Jimmy shoved the letter at Scott's chest. Scott laughed and took it.

He flipped it over, reading the front of the envelope. Something in his stomach flipped as letters were addressed to them in gold ink. He tried to not let his smile fall as he opened it. He could have guessed what was in the letter, and being pessimistic, he would have been wrong.

"Read it aloud!" Jimmy seemed eager, looking at Scott as if he was about to tell him he was the king of the world.

"To Codfather Jimmy Solidarity and Emperor Scott Major" He began.

After review of documentation, coordination with environmental peers, and an evaluation of the dependent; It had been determined you are fit to begin the process of adoption for that of Thomas. Please note that this process begins as soon as this letter is sent out, and all paperwork on our end will be done according to importance of the child and their mental state.

Due to your unique circumstance, the process may take longer and will involve many assessments of the child until the adoption is complete. Any assessments showing high stress or inadequate care of the child will result in immediate termination of the process and you will be made to wait a minimum of 12 months* until you can restart the process. There will be more information about the assessments soon, please be on the lookout for our messenger birds.

Thomas will reside in your care for 6 moths* before the papers can be submitted for official adoption. During this time, you are to care for the child as you would normally, with the assumption he is already adopted and you are his permanent guardians. Thomas will be dropped off with his social worker on [XX/XX/XXXX] to the home listed on your registration documents. If the address is to change, please notify the agency ASAP. Because of your unique situation, we understand there are two homes he will reside in. It is in the child's best interest to remain in one location for a minimum of 8 weeks to allow settlement.

If there is to be a change in anything regarding the process, please notify the agency ASAP. If there is ever an emergency*, death, or an instance of a missing persons, please contact your dedicated social worker first.

We look forward to moving forward and providing you and the child with a better future and life. ~Avianary Orphanage, Signed under Governor M. Jumbo, & The Moon Family.

Scott stared at the letter. They were approved. In two weeks, Tommy would be in their care. In six months he would be their child. His chest felt tight, but not heavy. He felt warm, a smile finding his face without him trying. Jimmys hands were on his wrists and Scott dropped the letter, flinging himself in his husbands arms.

"We have a kid!" Scott laughed, pressing his face into Jimmy's neck. He could feel the vibrations as Jimmy laughed, hugging him back tightly, making sure Scott wasn't going anywhere.

"We do! We have a kid! Together! He's our kid!" Jimmy's laugh sounded like pure gold. Like nectar from a warm summer. Scott couldn't stop himself from just smiling, pulling back and staring at Jimmy. His husband was flushed, but grinning indefinitely. Scott's whole body was warm, his stomach was fluttery and he felt like nothing else mattered as he was in his husbands arms. And soon they'd have a kid. All of Scotts fears, all of his worries, all of his intrusive thoughts melted as he just looked at Jimmy. Jimmy was so happy. Scott knew Jimmy would be a good dad. Scott knew Jimmy would help him be a good parent. There was nothing to worry about.

Scott grabbed Jimmy's face, pulling him into a rough kiss. He never stopped smiling. Jimmy tasted like salt and earth. He felt like warmth and clouds. Jimmy seemed shocked. He always did when Scott kissed him like this. But Scott was so happy, there was nothing to worry about right now. He savored Jimmy, his hands finding their way in Jimmy's hair as he kept the Codfather against him. Jimmy held Scotts waist and made sure Scott knew he wasn't going to let go.

Jimmy moved backwards, pulling Scott with him. Scott knew he was flushed, and giggles escaped him as he breathed hard once their kiss broke. Jimmy kissed his nose, his cheeks, his forehead, his eyebrow, his jaw. Scott giggled, scratching his scalp and tilting his head back as Jimmys smiling lips found his neck.

They would have Tommy. And they would all be okay.

Scott could feel himself glowing as he put on a more standard Ocean Empire outfit. Something that would keep him cooler and expose his ghastly skin to the bright sun. He had a few; an engagement gift from Lizzie. It was tailored to him, and he didn't admit it for a long while but sometimes he enjoyed these outfits more than the Rivendale ones (His favorite was the all green one. (Yet somehow it never stayed on long when he wore it around jimmy)). Mesh over loose fabric that still looked beautiful in water, tied and beaded, and gold sewn in or on the adornments. Most everyone was barefoot around the kingdom. It made sense with them being in and out of water constantly. Scott's feet were sensitive though. He spent most his life in thick boots. His initial complaints were met with an amazing gift from Joel. Of all people! Joel! Shoes that let him swim, walk, dance even. And they were comfortable.

He looked at himself in the mirror, going to admire how he looked. He loved it, almost always did. He had to get closer to the mirror though, going to adjust his hair. pushing it off his shoulder. His face flushed and he grinned as he saw them

"Hey! You're actually wearing your outfits" Jimmy beamed, moving behind Scott. Scott watched him in the mirror and smirked back at him.

"Yeah I am. Know what else I'm wearing from here? Evidence I'm your chew toy, Codfather" Scott taunted. Pink, bordering purple teeth marks lined the flesh connecting his shoulder and neck. Jimmys teeth were anything but dull. There was deeper ones that might have pooled blood on his shoulder. It made the mesh that was supposed to cover it useless.

The blond's eyes widened and he struggled between trying to act mortified and grinning as wide as he could. "Did I leave those?" He asked, his hands finding Scotts hips. His hands were warm compared to his skin (even now when Scott felt abnormally warm).

"Unless there's some other fish has been biting" He pretended to think on it. Jimmy just kissed his cheek.

"I'll be careful next time" the blond promised, kissing his jaw, then below his ear, then into the side of his neck. He lingered there for a moment. Scott held his breath.

"Jimmy! You failed the test!" Scott yelped, laughing and hitting Jimmys chest.

"Sorry! I just am so happy and excited! What else am I supposed to do?" He groaned and leaned back, pouting up at the ceiling.

"Not make yourself an easy target for Joel's words?" Scott batted Jimmy away. That seemed to pull Jimmy together as he groaned.

"Ohhhh no! no!" Jimmy whined, following Scott as he moved out of Jimmy's room and to the dinning area. The one in Jimmy's living space was cozy. It was smaller, had a four person table with some cabinets and art on the walls. There was already food on the table. Assortments of fish, cream, some pastries. Too much food for two people.

"I thought they weren't coming until later" Scott pulled a chair out for Jimmy. Jimmy looked a little miffed he didn't beat Scott to the gesture, but sat down.

"Well… I might have told them to come a bit sooner." He grabbed his plate and reached out to the food. Scott raised his eyebrow at Jimmy.

"Why?"

"Because I don't want to wait all day to tell them! The day would have gone by so, so slow." Jimmy hardly got through his first bite when the door opened and Joel's voice rang through the wooden home.

"Hello!? Better be up! I'll wet willy you!" Jimmy rolled his eyes and stayed quiet. Scott nudged him with his foot before calling back out.

"Oh no, They're here" He smiled, rolling his eyes back to Jimmy as he saw Lizzie's hair poke around the corner.

"Good Morning Losers!" Joel pulled a chair out for Lizzie.

"Good Morning!" Lizzie chimed over the King.

"Did you get here okay?" Jimmy beamed at her.

"Yeah, But your moss is getting a little too thick by some of the entry points. You should have someone check that out. Someone swimming in that is gross and small boats could get stuck. That would be embarrassing." Lizzie teased. Jimmy sat up.

"Oh! Right, okay, I'll have that cleaned too." He smiled, looking to Scott.

"Yeah, yeah, I'll remind you" Scott teased. He went to his own food before feeling Joel's eyes on him. He looked up and raised an eyebrow at Joel, already knowing the next comments coming.

"So I'm assuming this is good news by the way Scott looks." Joel picked at some fruit. Lizzie looked at Scott immediately.

"Jimmy!" She scolded. Jimmy glared at Joel while his face got pink.

"I am a grown adult!"

"Have some respect for yourselves!" Lizzie groaned.

"Anyways" Scott smiled, shrugging and pulling his water cup to his lips. "We do have good news." He looked between his friends. "We got a letter yesterday. We got approval to start the adoption process." Scott set his glass down. There was silence before Lizzie was standing up in shock.

"You did?!" She gasped, looking at Jimmy. He grinned back and nodded. Joel didn't hide his excitement from them, standing up and running over to Jimmy first. The Codfather was yanked out of his chair and pulled into a hug. Lizzie bounced in excitement, her hands clasping as she looked at her brother and Scott.

"That's brilliant! Jim- You're a dad!" He looked at Jimmy, clearly so happy for him. He stood up to meet Lizzie. He was reminded how strong the Ocean Queen really was as she crushed him. Scott's wings opened a bit and he smiled into her hair.

"Oh- oh Scott I'm so- Oh-" Lizzie rocked Scott back and forth. "You're going to be amazing parents. This kid is going to thrive with you both." She whispered. Scott could hear his heart, blood rushing in his ears. He didn't know why there was suddenly pressure in his ears. Lizzie and Joel traded places at some point and Joel's much gentler arms were around him. Scotts breathing was jagged as he leaned into Joel's hug. He hugged him harder, rubbing his back. He didn't whisper anything, but he didn't have to. Scott felt everything in his touch.

It was their last day in the Cod Empire together for a while. They both needed to prepare their homes for their new addition. Tommy wasn't a baby. He was a kid who was growing and needed space. He needed places just as Jimmy and Scott had their own places in each others homes. Scott's place was a small room he claimed as his office. It was near Jimmy's own office, but far enough that they wouldn't bother each other if there was a meeting going on. His office contained the things he'd normally need to continue his work. A desk, papers, bookshelves, A picture on the wall from his and Jimmy's wedding.

And in the back of the room, an alter. Gold powder was in a bowl below the table, a pendant laid over a white and gold tablecloth. The blue in the pendant looked like it contained it's own magic.

Scott knelt, staring at the gem. his hair was down, his wings relaxed against his back. He didn't realize his bottom lip was shaking until he took in a ragged breath. "Aeor" Scott whispered.

"Aeor, Please guide my head, Please hold my heart." Scott didn't remember closing his eyes.

"Allow me to breathe, Allow me to listen, Allow me to watch." Scott had asked when he was Ten why they didn't ask to speak. The answer burned in his mind (and caused a fight when Grian whispered the same prayer to his gods but did say speak.)

Now was the part where he was supposed to ask something, thank Aeor for something. He wasn't tied to silence this time. His lips remained clean. He didn't know what to say. He didn't know why he was here, kneeling. He should be thanking Aeor. Thanking for the guidance of the letter, the hope, the happiness. But his mind was completely empty.

He glared at the stone as he tried to think about what to say. He should be thankful. Wasn't he thankful? He was beyond happy, he had so much to look forward to. He may have even needed protection for his now family. But he couldn't find the words. Nothing felt organic as he tried to recover.

Was this some sort of punishment? Scott spoke out of turn, he said something wrong? Tears formed as Scott sat there frozen.

Help Me Scott thought. Why couldn't he speak it? The words clogged in his throat.

A knock at the door made him gasp for air as if he hadn't been breathing. He spun around to look at the floor, falling on his butt and watching the door open. Jimmy looked in, looking around before looking at Scott. He flushed, Backing up.

"Sorry! Shoot- sorry Scott, I'm so sorry-" he rambled. Scott scrambled to stand up and gather himself.

"Wait! Jimmy. It's okay! It's fine! I was just thinking" Scott watched the door slowly open again.

"Are you sure?" Jimmy cleared his throat.

"Positive" Scott smiled weakly. Jimmy watched him from afar.

"Are you okay?" He asked. Scott didn't know.

"Yeah" He sniffled. Jimmy thought about his answer for a moment before seeming to accept it.

"I was going to go swim around the beach for a little bit. I was… Wondering if you'd join me?" Jimmy looked so shy as he asked the question. Scott really didn't want to get his wings wet. He had to fly home tomorrow.

"Yeah." he agreed. "Im going to just sit on the rocks though, okay?" Swallowing felt harder as he spoke. It made it worse when Jimmy looked a little disappointed and worried.

"Okay"

Everything in the next few weeks felt blurry. Scott hardly got sleep and he felt like he was constantly being pulled in several directions. They had finally just gotten to a place where he was actually doing okay with keeping himself taken care of. Thats why he agreed to this. They had time now. But it was starting to feel like he was regressing all that progress. Solstice wasn't being easy either. He was constantly on Scotts feet, and it felt like he was being more aggressive than normal. All because Scott was adopting a kid? Because he didn't want a baby?

Scott's lips stayed pressed into a line as one of his other advisors talked to him. He should have been glad. Solstice's voice was getting on his nerves. "We think you should make it known you do have a child as soon as you can. It will show unity to other kingdoms and it would be good to get him mixed in with some other royal children." Aviel looked back at him.

"The Codfather and I have agreed we aren't going to involve Tommy in politics unless necessary or he asks to be." Scott's voice was blunt and pointed. He had said this so many times and to several different people. Aviel shared a look with Solstice and Scott was prepared to shut them both down.

"You should at least educate him in the history of the kingdoms and give him basic political notions." Solstice spoke with a gentleness Scott wasn't prepared for.

"If he's going to be your child, he does need to prepare to take on the role of a prince. Keep him away from the big things if you must, but remember, after you and Jimmy die, he is going to inherent everything. If he's not prepared he would be endangering both Rivendale and the Cod Empire." Aviel was one of Scotts last teachers before he became Emperor. They had this uncaring tone to them that made them hard to listen to for long periods of time. It did make them great for co-kingdom meetings where he needed someone at his side who would keep their emotions off their face.

"There's no If" Scott chose the wrong thing to focus on. Solstice's eye twitched but he stayed quiet. "He is our child" Scott looked at Aviel.

"Apologies" Aviel puffed out.

"I will talk to Jimmy." Scott folded his hands on top of his desk. "You're dismissed." Scott stood up and moved to let them out of his office.

Aviel watched Solstice leave, following him until he reached the door. He stopped and Scott was prepared for some sort of speech about disappointment. "You need to take him to Aeor." Aviel's eyes were a cooler blue. It made them cold and a little ghostly at times. It didn't do Scott any favors as his whole body froze. He glared at the advisor and could feel his face twist into an unhappy and possibly angry look.

"I don't need to do anything" He snapped. Aviel tilted their head up, looking down at Scott. It made him feel like a child again; getting scolded for breaking a rule that didn't even make sense.

"You know you'll have to. You do have duties. You cannot escape who you are, who you are destined to be." Scott tried to focus on breathing. He couldn't let this get to him. He didn't have time to worry about this. Not when Tommy would be here in no time.

"Don't mess this up, Emperor. It's not just you who's livelihood is on the line."

Chapter Text

Tommy has become very observant over the years. He noted what made people tick, what got under their skin, how to make sure he didn't have to stay in one place for so long. He didn't really understand why that urge was there. (Some adult told him once, but he forgot what they actually said. It didn't matter.)

It took two years to get out of his first house. And He was sure he was on the edge of getting kicked out of his second home. A few more reports and surely they'd give up and he'd get out. This time he only felt a little bad- but only because his foster parent had actually put so much effort in. But he was still the black sheep. He wasn't anything compared to his foster siblings. And even that was enough motivation to keep pressing buttons.

He didn't get kicked out though. He got adopted. Or he's going to get adopted. Two people actually made the choice to try and bring him into their family. The weirdest thing was the fact they were royal. It felt like some sort of weird twisted fairytale. Surely this was some publicity stunt. They mentioned their royal team of assholes was pressuring them about kids… So he was a last ditch effort. Even if they did say this was about "family". This was the oddest thing that's happened to Tommy since his parents died.

"I thought you washed your hair" his social worker frowned at him. Tommy had been staring out the window so long he didn't even realize there was snow everywhere. It wasn't even winter anymore. When he left it was warm and he was even getting overheated.

"I did" Tommy mumbled.

"Stop mumbling, Tommy" She warned. "These people are very important and they're going to need you to be the best version of yourself. You want to get adopted right?" Tommy let the words pass by him as if she never even said it. He'd heard it all before.

The weirdness of the situation only got weirder as they slowed down, entering a town. It was busy, tall people, all of them looking nicer, dressing as if they were always attending an event. So many of them had longer hair, pointed ears. The buildings were so pristine looking. The snow on top of the colored roofs made the blend from the stark white buildings easier to look at. The darker wood contrasted nicely. It was like some sort of weird, perfect, stuck up town.

The buildings hid the main attraction pretty well though. It took until they were right in front of it for Tommy to actually realize this wasn't just some huge fancy house he was living at. It may as well be a castle. They really weren't exaggerating their status. All the nonchalance fizzled out of him as he spotted the two adults standing outside a huge door. His heart seemed to speed up as he realized he was supposed to get out and greet them. His door was opened and it felt all too fast. He shouldn't be here. He wasn't worthy of being here in front of a life full of whatever he wanted, of seemingly too perfect of people.

"Hi, Tommy" The man with wings spoke. Scott- His name was Scott. He looked like the others he had seen in passing. Taller, pointed ears, longer hair. But wings… He had full, unclipped wings.

Tommy's shoulder was nudged and his face burned as he looked at Scott. "Hi." He stared, looking to the blond next. Timmy? Was his name Timmy?

"How was the ride here?" Timmy asked.

"You didn't tell him to wear a coat?" Scott's voice cut in and his eyebrows furrowed as he stared behind him. Tommy looked back at his social worker and she seemed to fluster immediately.

"Well- I don't think he has one." she sputtered out. Tommy had never seen her so embarrassed. He also realized just how cold it was. He shivered and Timmy looked at him, rushing over and taking his own jacket off. throwing it over Tommy's back. It was awkward and sat weird between his back and wings, but it helped a little.

"And you didn't think to get him one?"

"Well- I didn't know how cold it was going to be. It's spring back in the Avianary." She argued.

"Yet you have a sweater on." Scott snapped back. Tommy tried to not smile at that. He let Timmy guide him along to the doors.

"I think his clothes are ready in his room. Something warmer." Scott looked at his husband. It was unsettling to see this man be so snappy already. Cool in the way Scott defended him so quickly, but unsettling how fast he could snap.

"Bring him there? I'll finish up with her. Tommy doesn't have to be here for all that." Tommy looked back at his social worker. Her face was pink and she seemed like she had something very very unacceptable to say.

"Course! Come on, Tommy." Timmy ushered him to the door, opening it and letting Tommy step in. It was instantly so much warmer. And it wasn't nearly as bright as it had been outside. The lights were dimmed in a relaxing way that made the amount of space in front of him seem cozy.

"It's a maze in here. I still get lost, honestly." Timmy walked slightly ahead, moving down a hallway and then up stairs. He tried to pay attention to things around him. Every few feet there were lanterns hanging from the wall, a portrait of a stag just before the hallway they turned down. A… Pufferfish in a tank? Tommy slowed to look at it as they passed. Timmy slowed down instantly, looking at the tank and smiling.

"That's Pufferish." He seemed so proud of the creature. "When Scott and I ended the feud between us, I gave him this. I spelled Pufferfish wrong though, so…" Tommy looked at the plaque on the tank appropriately labeled.

"You… Gave your husband a Pufferfish to signal peace." Tommy looked back at the adult. Timmy's cheeks flushed and he nodded.

"Yup. I swear I give better presents now." He looked at Tommy as if he needed to be believed. Tommy smiled just a little and nodded.

"Whatever you say, Big man" He agreed. Timmy didn't lose the embarrassed look as they continued down the hall.

"Your room is really close to ours. It's a little empty, but Scott wanted to talk to you about decorating it." Tommy expected something small. Your average room. He keeps forgetting he is not in your average house though. He was just as shocked when there was enough space for him to make the biggest mess, and then make more messes. He had so much room that it made the lack of decoration intimidating.

"Oh-" Tommy felt the sound leave his mouth and Timmy turned to him instantly.

"Oh? Is something wrong- Are you missing something? What's-" Tommy stepped in droning the other out. There was a window that faced the front of the building. It was huge. He could see into the town from here, seeing just how big his new home actually was. There were so many buildings, all placed with precision, and so many people just out and commuting around. They looked like bugs from here.

Tommy didn't know if he felt sick or excited.

"Ah- here, these should keep you pretty warm" Timmy motioned to the closet and then the dresser. Tommy moved slowly to open the drawers. Clothes- so many clothes. A lot of shirts to keep him warm, all buttoning at the neck with room for his wings. Pants, socks (fuzzy and casual), even underwear. Tommy's face flushed and he closed the drawer quickly, looking back to Timmy who opened the closet.

"You'll have your own clothes in the Cod Empire too. I think they're being made now- I don't know that your room will be nearly as fancy as this though" he looked a little embarrassed at the mention.

"Scott's always gotta be fancy. Pretty things, pretty people-" he listed. Tommy took a glance at the adult, looking him up and down. He was caught as Timmy flushed and glared playfully.

"I'll have you know he says I'm very pretty" Tommy mimicked Scott. Tommy laughed before covering his mouth, trying to get the smile to disappear. He shouldn't laugh-

"It's okay. Scott would laugh too." Timmy winked at him, closing the closet.

"Speaking of. Get changed- I'd recommend the shirts in that bottom drawer. They're compression, so they'll keep you warm, and you can throw anything you want over them if you don't wanna ditch everything else." He smiled.

"Uh… questions?"

"No…" Tommy looked around. "Yes-" he stopped Timmy just before he walked out of the room.

"What's up?"

"Uh-" Tommy looked around. He didn't know what he was going to even ask. "Can…you're not going to leave, right? When the door closes?" Tommy felt so childish. The man had things to do. Scott was probably waiting on him.

"Course not. Are you kidding?" Timmy smiled. "I'll be right outside. If the buttons are giving you trouble, shout for me and I'll help out. Scott struggled with them and he's dealt with it all his life" he laughed. Tommy blinked and nodded slowly.

"Okay" he agreed. The door closed and Tommy stood still. This was so fucking weird.

In the first two weeks Tommy learned 5 important things. He was patient, being quiet and trying to avoid gathering too much attention from Scott and Jimmy (not Timmy). He was as subtle as he could be, saying he was tired, or feeling weird from the elevation. Scott and Jimmy gave him room. But they also never questioned it when Tommy followed behind them.

Here's what Tommy learned.

1) Scott and Jimmy are grossly perfect for each other. They work best together.

He had the displeasure of meeting a few of the advisors. There was two that seemed to be closer to Scott. They also seemed to be skeptical of him. Solstice had darker blue hair, pulled in a shorter braid on his shoulder. He looked younger than Scott did, just by a few years.

"Nice to meet you, Tommy." He smiled. Tommy stared before nodding, glancing at Scott who nodded in approval.

Aviel was much older. They were thin and pale, hair was a softer blue-grey. He wondered if all the blue was some sort of running gag amongst them all.

"Tommy." they smiled. They seemed fine. They didn't look nearly as mean as Solstice seemed. "We're glad to have you. If you ever need something, don't hesitate to ask." Something seemed off the way Aviel was so calm. He couldn't explain why though.

Aviel had insisted Tommy stay while they talked, hoping to talk about Tommy in the process. The idea of that absolutely sounded terrible and he very much did not want to be here while they talked about him.

"I don't think Tommy has quite settled in enough to decide anything serious." Scott spoke with such a calm firmness. Like he owned the room; He did own the room, but you get the point. He watched as Solstice stared at Scott to try again.

"It would be a great opportunity for him to get to know the staff that are close." Tommy wondered if Solstice had special privileges with how casually he spoke. There was a sense of respect- but just enough to fuel arguments with Scott if he didn't get along.

"Solstice" Aviel said before Scott could. Solstice folded his hands in front of him and pressed his mouth into a line. "Thank you. Tommy, Do you want to join us? You don't have to."

Tommy looked at Scott. Scott hesitated but nodded. "It's your choice. I'm sure Jimmy would love to show you the animals." Tommy looked back to the others. He was being given a choice on if he wanted to talk "business". He could have stayed, making Scott stressed out. But Solstice made him nervous. It felt like he was back at the Watsons, eyes watching him, waiting for him to mess up.

"I'd like to go see the animals." Tommy backed toward the door. Aviel looked disappointed, but nodded. Solstice moved to sit down, and Scott followed him. He stopped Tommy in the door.

"He'll probably be in the kitchen by now. Remember where that is?" Scott stood so awkwardly across from him. It only made Tommy feel awkward in return.

"Yeah." he gave a thumbs up.

"Okay." Scott smiled. "I'll come find you when I'm done here."

And he came out frustrated and clearly annoyed by whatever they talked about. He often seemed beaten down after meetings. It was always unsettling and Tommy avoided him the most when he came out of his office or those big rooms. He was stoic and his eyebrows were just slightly furrowed and he always looked annoyed. His walking was fast and his back was totally straight. Scott was a totally different person when people could see him. Yet when he was with Jimmy during their private dinners, or while they read in the library together, Scott seemed much more approachable.

When he first invited Tommy to join them for dinner, Tommy nearly declined just because Scott looked miserable and like one of the most unhappy people in the world. He only agreed when Scott looked more sad after hesitation. And then Scott saw Jimmy and he just relaxed- every single ounce of negativity melting away. It was magic.

The food smelled amazing and Tommy really could get used to this and this alone. Scott and Jimmy had taken turns telling stories about their day. He seemed to leave out the meeting he had with his advisers.

"Oh! I wrote to Lizzie today!" Jimmy said, then looked to Jimmy. "That's my sister! She's the Ocean Queen. She's mostly, very nice." Tommy perked up a little.

"Really? The Ocean Queen?" He shoved another roll into his mouth. Scott smiled with raised eyebrows, clearly very amused. Tommy scrunched his face and looked back to jimmy.

"Yup! She's married to one of my best mates too, Joel? Joel's pretty great. Oh! We should take a vacation to Mazelea. I don't think I've been there in a while" Tommy swallowed his food and spoke again.

"She's a queen, of the ocean." Tommy smiled. "And you're the Codfather?" Scott was covering his mouth trying to not laugh.

Jimmy scoffed. "Oh come on!" He threw his hands in the ear. "Listen- I had harsh circumstances growing up, and I had to really make my own way! The Cod Empire is thriving!" He argued with this lightness to his voice, smiling. Tommy laughed back at him.

"That is such shit luck!" He taunted. Jimmy sighed and clicked his tongue, wagging his finger.

"Insulting me and swearing?" Jimmy sighed, crossing his arms and looking at Scott. "Someone gotta teach this boy some manners!" He grinned, winking at tommy. Tommy puffed his chest and wings.

"Oi! I'm a big man. I don't need manners"

Scott snickered next to him. "Really?"

"Yeah! Who the hell do you think you're laughing at?" Tommy puffed his wings out more. His cheeks hurt from trying to not smile.

"I think i'm laughing at someone who's too impolite to have cake" Scott whistled, his own wings ruffling. Tommy gawked and gave in, arguing for cake.

They had a routine that revolved around each other so heavily. Not to mention the way Jimmy seemed so accident prone, Scott had a whole routine down on how to keep his husband safe. "That's really hot, be careful" or "be careful, they moved the furniture" or "the doors close on their own, don't stand too close" or "I think they just mopped the stairs, please be careful". Tommy watched Jimmy fall down those same stairs.

"Oh- holy shit dude-" Tommy hurried after him. He was cautious of the wet steps. But knelt down to jimmy.

"Tommy-" Jimmy winced.

"Oh- sorry- I didn't mean-" Tommy needed to get better at not cursing. It was such a habit and Jimmy seemed to always give him a look when he did so.

"Don't tell Scott-" he wheezed, allowing Tommy to help him stand up. Tommy blinked.

"What?" He smiled a little.

"Scott warned me they mopped- and I forgot-"

"Jimmy!" Scott's voice whined through the hallway. "Did you seriously fall? After I told you they mopped?" Scott hurried over, looking at Tommy and sighing dramatically. Tommy was ready for them to start bickering.

"No! Maybe- I was just focused on other things and I always loose my footing in shoes!" Jimmy argued. It wasn't mean though- it had a playful tone to it.

"Jesus, Jimmy." Scott's accent was heavier as he pinched the bridge of his nose.

"At least I have witness to why your ass is bruised" he clicked his tongue. Jimmy glared.

"You're swearing in front of our child" Jimmy looked at Tommy and winked quickly as if Tommy hadn't just sworn himself.

"Ass is not a swear." Scott swatted at Jimmy. "Come on, Tommy." Scott motioned. "I want to show you something." Tommy looked back at Jimmy who just grinned and gave a thumbs up.

He didn't get why.

The division of them not working together was what sparked their first argument that Tommy actually witnessed. A crack Tommy could use if he needed to.

He had wanted to try to see if they'd take him out of the castle. If that was even an option right now. It was still early, maybe his fifth day when He asked Jimmy if he could explore the town he entered from.

"Oh! Well, I actually don't know. Why don't you go ask Scott? See what he says." Jimmy was reading some paper at his desk. Tommy had been lingering around for a little bit as he worked the courage up. Tommy nodded and left to go down the hall. He had the rout down for what he deemed "the working hall". Scott's office was next to the library on the left, and Jimmy's was down the hall, the third door on the right. Between them was a series of other offices dedicated to royal advisors.

"Scott?" Tommy knocked on the door as he walked in. It wasn't closed, so he took that as an opening. Scott looked up and smiled at him. It was tight-lipped and Tommy suddenly wasn't all too sure about this.

"Uh, I wanted to ask if maybe I could go explore outside. In the town?" He clasped his hands together and avoided eye contact. Scott stayed quiet for a moment.

"How about you ask Jimmy. I'm a bit occupied right now." Scott sounded sympathetic, of course he couldn't just abandon his work for Tommy.

"I did."

"What did he say?"

"To ask you." Scott stayed quiet and he considered it for a moment.

"I don't want you going out alone yet. See if Jimmy will take you out." He agreed. Having to go all the way back down the hall was inconvenient but Tommy just gave a thumbs up and back tracked.

"What? I hardly know my way around here" Jimmy laughed nervously as Tommy told him what Scott had said.

"I don't think I can do it. Ask Scott when he'll be done, then maybe we can all go together."

It was a trap. Having to go back and forth like this was always a trap and Tommy didn't really want to be in the middle, but he was already walking back to Scott's office. Scott looked back up and he saw the annoyance flash over his face before it morphed into something softer.

"He wanted me to ask if you'd take me when you're done working. He doesn't know the place." Tommy shrugged. Scott had this tell when he was annoyed about something. He always exhaled sharply and made a noise in the back of his throat while his lip twitched. His eyes shifted to behind him and Tommy looked to see Jimmy smiling. His smile wavered though as he seemed to pick up on Scotts annoyance.

"I'm not in a good stopping place. You two should go out, explore together." Scott sat up straighter.

"Having a tour isn't fun when you don't know where you're going." Jimmy crossed his arms.

"Solstice is going to be all over me if I don't finish reading these." the word choice made tommy ignore them for a second to laugh to himself. he didn't. That would be rude.

"Why can't he summarize them for you?"

"Has he ever once been that nice?" Scott scoffed. Tommy moved to sit in a chair, messing with a loose string from his jacket. It was only loose because Tommy picked it apart.

"You could ask him!"

"And you could spend time with Tommy" Scott suggested. His voice was getting more strained. Jimmy's arms dropped and he stared at Scott.

"So could you." He made it sound like an accusation. Hurt washed over Scott's face as he looked at Tommy and then Jimmy. Jimmy seemed to realize how it came off, yet he only doubled down. He had to have been the stupidest man alive.

"Tommy wanted to go as a family. I think it would be a nice outing and you need a break anyways."

"I'm busy, Jim." Scott stared back. Tommy wondered how often they argued like this.

"You're always busy" Jimmy sighed. Scott's eyes widened and he had to look at Tommy as a reminder he was even there. He'd hate to know what would have been said if he weren't.

"You should show him the Cod Sanctuary." Scott ordered it more than he suggested it. Jimmy finally cracked and sighed.

"Right" He motioned to Tommy. Jimmy never once spoke ill of his husband. Any time Tommy asked about him, Jimmy changed the topic.

By dinner it was like nothing happened. They were as much of a couple as ever and even weirder, they both focused on Tommy an intense amount.

2) Scott is really secretive about his past. It's a touchy subject and any time Tommy asked about it, he was shut down gently. He wondered how many times he could ask before Scott would snap at him. AKA: He's hiding something. That makes him shady.

The first time he asked was when he heard Scott mentioning not wanting to risk bumping into "him". He waited until they were in his office and alone to bring it up. (Tommy didn't realize or know why he had actually started following Scott. He was just bored and figured this was the best way to learn the maze of the home.)

"Who don't you want to risk bumping into?" Tommy was laying on the floor right now. He didn't remember how he ended up there. Scott didn't mention it though.

"I don't know what you're talking about." Tommy squinted at the decorated ceiling.

"You Told that Solstice that He could go negotiate something because you didn't wanna run into someone." Tommy sat up, looking over to Scott. Scott seemed to tense and get really serious.

"Don't worry about it."

"Is it a long rivalry? Is there a king you hate?" Tommy beamed. Scott still wouldn't look at Tommy.

"It doesn't matter, Tommy." Scott emphasized.

"Come on. I should know who you don't like so I cam avoid them!"

"Tommy. I think you should go see if dinner is almost ready. Gather Jimmy" He was stiff and never looked up from his desk. Tommy paused, his stomach sinking. He's always pushed buttons and been fine. Seeing Scott trying to stay calm while getting increasingly annoyed was not as satisfying as he thought.

Two nights later, Tommy couldn't sleep. He was restless and his room was freaking him out just a little. There was just so much space. He wanted something smaller… more comforting. so he got up, found a lantern and made his way down the hallway. He was careful with his steps, moving slowly, and avoiding any spots he had heard creek. The slippers he was given helped a lot, making it easier to be light on his feet.

There was this hallway that was always covered with a curtain. Scott would ignore him and change topics when Tommy asked about the hallway. He even tried asking Jimmy and Jimmy looked a little confused; not knowing what he was talking about. The secrecy was getting to him. You can't just tell Tommy not to look into something.

He took a few wrong turns and had to retrace his steps a lot, passing what felt like an exhaustive amount of time. But it was still as dark as ever outside. The stars were really bright and clear. He would have stopped to appreciate it more if he wasn't so focused. And Then he almost missed it! He walked right past it before realizing that the wall did not stay consistent. So he walked back, lifting the lantern and showing the deep purple curtain barrier.

Tommy stood there for a moment before nodding and pressing forward. He expected to maybe see an a bunch of war plans and weapons, forbidden books. But it was just a conference room. Or Maybe a private dining room? It felt too small to be for conferences. there was no furniture there. The room was empty apart from the walls. Tommy moved and lifted the lantern to get a better look as he moved along the walls.

They were all portraits. Families of four, some of five or even six; with individual portraits of children surrounding them. For several generations. Tommy stared and moved along the wall until he came to the last few.

A portrait of a woman sitting on a bench, long lavender hair worn down over her shoulders. She looked weirdly thin, frail even. But there was this look in her eyes. The same one Scott got when he was getting frustrated. Bit meaner. On either side of her are two kids. Both were winged, one with white and brown and gold, the other with brown and black and burgundy. One with pale blue hair hitting his shoulders, and one with long purple hair in a braid over their shoulder.

Scott had a sibling. Had? Has? Tommy stared at The painting, taking in how similar they all looked. Scott had his mothers eyes, her hands even. His sibling had the fullness of her hair, her stature, her smile. Scott looked really young. He looked shy and weak. The other kid looked so much more confidant than him. Like they had something to prove. It was an odd dynamic.

"Tommy?" A second lantern met his, the voice hushed. Tommy jumped, dropping the lantern, glass shattering, the candle inside of it going out. He knelt down on the floor and didn't dare speak. He didn't even breathe. He was going to be in so much trouble for snooping around. He didn't even hear anyone coming.

"Tommy, is that you?" Jimmy sounded tired and concerned. The light hit his face and he winced, shielding his eyes. "What are you doing, mate?" He asked, kneeling down to meet Tommy on the floor. Tommy stared back at the other.

"Tommy?" Jimmy set his lantern down and moved closer to Tommy. Tommy winced before forcing himself to meet Jimmy's eyes.

"Yes?" Tommy wished his voice wasn't so shaky.

"Are you alright?"

"Yes?"

"You're wearing slippers right?" Jimmy looked down. Tommy glared and backed away.

"Wait-wait- don't move, You could cut yourself" Jimmy tried to keep his voice down. He wondered if Scott was close behind. "Here, I'm going to give you the lantern and carry you out." Jimmy was careful as he stepped through the glass. Tommy stared.

"What? No, You don't have to, I'll be okay-"

"Tommy, take it." Jimmy was very careful to nudge the larger glass shards away. Tommy was forced to take the lantern. Even worse, Jimmy had to pick him up and walk him out of the room and down the hallway.

"You can put me down now" Tommy whispered, leaning his head back. The hallway looked funny upside down.

"I don't know what you mean." Jimmy was smiling. Tommy huffed and tried to beat down his smile. "the floor's cold. I don't want you to suffer that!

"you give me you slippers then!" Tommy lifted his head. Jimmy shook his.

"Well that's just counterintuitive"

"Did you just learn what that word means?" Tommy taunted. Jimmy laughed, entering Tommy's room and setting him on the bed.

"Lucky you're holding that, Or else I would have tossed you" Jimmy teased, taking the lantern from the younger. Tommy grinned and automatically was moving as he got back under his blankets. It was cold.

Jimmy lingered, letting Tommy get settled. Or maybe it was to make sure Tommy actually got in bed. "You won't tell Scott, will you?" Tommy sat up. Jimmy looked uncomfortable at the question, hesitating.

"Yes- No- Wait no. I have to, Tommy. He's the one who had a feeling something was wrong."

"You could lie to him." Tommy tilted his head. Jimmy's mouth opened and closed as he thought about it.

"Please? I don't want to get in trouble already… He told me not to go in there" Tommy sounded more desperate than he was. He didn't really care if Scott was mad at him. What reason was there for him to care? Scott was just another adult.

"Let's talk about this in the morning." Jimmy looked at Tommy. Tommy's stomach felt funny as the words registered.

He had the courage by breakfast to try to get Scott to give answers.

"So, If Jimmy has a sister, Do you have siblings?" Tommy pushed his food around his plate. Both adults seemed to shift uncomfortably. Scott was always stiff while Jimmy squirmed.

"You do. Will I also get to meet them?" Tommy already knew Scott had a sibling. That painting wasn't just random.

"No." Scott was firm. "They don't matter, and you will likely never meet them. They have no importance to you." Scott was insistent they moved on. Tommy knew he had to find out more.

3) Jimmy struggled being in Rivendale too long. The longer He stayed here, the more restless he seemed and anxious about his home.

It makes sense- it was jimmy's empire after all. Why he didn't just leave, Tommy didn't know. But it was clear his nerves and change in mood seemed to be getting to Scott too. Did Jimmy and Scott actually go back and forth this often? Jimmy started sulking after 10 days.

Tommy waited outside a door listening to them discuss it. They told Tommy to find a book or puzzle to keep himself busy. He walked down and around the corner, waiting a short amount of time before backtracking.

"You can go, Jim. We talked about this. I'll be okay. He will be okay. We'll be here safe and sound" Scott was trying to keep his voice sweet and understanding.

"He's still adjusting, and between the both of you, I'm a little worried about the state you'll be in." Jimmy expressed his concern. Tommy's eyebrows furrowed.

"What's that supposed to mean?!"

"You're so alike! If somethings wrong, you sulk and sort of self-sabotage." Jimmy said without hesitation. There was no word from Scott.

"I just want to make sure you're both going to be okay. Tommy is still adjusting and it wouldn't be fair if I just left for a few days." Tommy looked down the hallway. All the snow outside seemed to make things brighter. The whole hallway was lit completely and he could see the stretch down to where the steps were.

"We will be. You need to go take care of things, maybe even meet with Lizzie to see when she could visit."

"Scott"

"Jimmy." It was silent. "We are his parents." Tommy felt a shiver run down his spine. "We have to be able to parent alone too." He said it as if the idea they'd have to parent alone got them into an argument a few days ago. "It's okay. I'll be okay." Tommy hated being talked about like that. He wasn't their kid. He was a kid that they decided to play house with.

"We can all go together" Tommy didn't realize he was pushing through the door until it was too late. "I want to go to the Cod Empire" Tommy put on a show of enthusiasm. Scott jumped and Jimmy looked very startled.

"Tommy- You shouldn't be eavs-"

"Shouldn't be coming in before knocking! Jimmy cut Scott off, a lot gentler than Scott had started. Scott's eye twitched and Tommy was stuck between smirking and acting guilty.

"What's up?"

"We can all go. To the Cod place." Tommy suggested.

"We can't" Scott looked at Jimmy as if he was trying to make the man remember something. Tommy watched them connect.

"He's right. Not this time, Tommy" Jimmy looked back to Scott. "For the same reasons I can't."

"Those are two totally different reasons" Scott glared. "You are missing things, and you have people to report to. Tommy and I will be just fine."

"Why can't I go?" Tommy argued. Scott looked back at Tommy.

"Because we agreed to let you settle in for about eight weeks before moving you around. You're just getting down the castle. It's going to be overwhelming for you to go to a whole new place so soon."

"I don't think you can tell me what I'd find overwhelming" Tommy was now annoyed. At first it was just a small hope for him to get out of the castle. He had been confined here and It was becoming suffocating. He was also just tired of seeing the same walls and paintings over and over again.

"Trust us, Tommy" Jimmy frowned. "It wont be nearly as fun as you think it will be"

"No. I want to go." Tommy looked at Scott directly. A challenge. "if you don't want to go than you stay here and I can go with him. Jimmy will take me, won't you?" Tommy looked at the other blond. Jimmy looked at Tommy and shook his head.

"Bud, I don't think that's the point."

"Don't call me bud" Tommy cringed. "And clearly it is. Scott just doesn't want to leave here and now he has an excuse."

"That's very much not true" Jimmy stayed calm while Scott's ears got pink. He was getting to them.

"Then let's just go! I want to go, I am okay with going!"

"Tommy-"

"I want to go, and I don't see any reason why I can't."

"I just told you why, Tommy" Scott tried to urge Tommy to understand. It didn't even make sense. There was no way Scott was also okay with being locked up like this.

4) Scott didn't handle being yelled at very well. Jimmy seemed okay to handle it, But Scott shut down.

"Yeah, and the reason is Bullshit."

"Tommy" Jimmy warned. His warning was serious this time.

"You can't fly, Tommy. Getting you there would take three times as long." Scott was just pulling reasons out of thin air now. Tommy was sure of it. His wings expanded, still clipped and sad.

"I don't care! You can carry me!"

"You don't want that. It would be uncomfortable and you'd have to be in a harness" It was overwhelming the way both Jimmy and Scott argued against him. The fun of the arguing and seeing how they could get him to crack started to become not so funny anymore. Once again; he had no one to argue for him. No one was on his side and he felt cornered.

"No! I should be allowed to go with you guys. I'm tired of being here, I hate that you won't even trust me to go explore! I'm locked in here with all these depressing assholes and I have nothing to do-" Tommy didn't know where all the extra words and anger was coming from. But he was in too deep now. "You're not even my real parents! You have no idea what you're doing and it shows" Tommy glared. His voice was raised and he could see Scott shrinking in on himself. "I'm not a fucking child! God- If you wanted something that couldn't go anywhere or have opinions maybe you should have gotten a fucking dog!" Tommy was shouting now.

"Tommy." Jimmy stayed firm in his words while Scott just watched him with sad eyes. Tommy would have felt bad, but he was too angry now to even care. "You don't need to raise your voice. We're trying to explain to you why you can't go-"

"And I don't give a crap about what you think! I want to go!" He wanted to stamp his foot and scream out. It was so childish and he felt small compared to them. "I hate you both! I don't even belong here! You hardly want me here!" Tommy shouted. the room was blurry now and his whole body was just overly hot and he felt like his clothes were too tight. He wanted to be outside. And not in the stupid cold garden.

The room was quiet apart from Jimmy's harsh breathing. It was cold too. Frost lined the window behind Scott, in turn making the room feel darker. "Tommy, Go calm down and then we can talk" Jimmy said before he looked to Scott. Tommy stared at the blue haired male the whole time. He looked frightened and hurt, and maybe even like he was going to cry.

"Whatever." Tommy snapped, turning around and storming out the room. He slammed the door to the office, and then slammed his own door for extra measures.

This is normally what got them the most. The families- he'd find a way to crack someone, an easy target. And because they were hurt, the other person would remind Tommy that he was replaceable. It was easier to replace a child that's not even yours than it is to replace a legally binded child. Or a partner in this case.

He sort of wished they would hurry up and come kick him out. Tell him to pack his things. Tommy laid on his stomach on his bed, looking behind him as he spread his wings out. It was a shame they hadn't grown in yet. He didn't even know how long it would take… they always got clipped anyways. He hoped maybe Scott would have some sympathy.

Didn't matter now anyways. Tommy put his forehead on his arms, staring into the darkness of his red bedding. He would miss a few things he supposed. The really nice blankets… they were very soft. The food… the amount of space. The fact he didn't have siblings to compete with.

He didn't realize he was tearing up until it was running down his nose. Tommy sat up, wiping his face quickly. He hadn't even been here that long. He wasn't attached to anyone. He made sure not to be. Not like he had a chance- but even Scott and Jimmy… he tried to keep them out off emotional range. More tears built and Tommy sniffled, shaking his hands to try to stop him from crying. He took wildly shaky breaths, trying to not choke on saliva.

This was stupid. Scott was really scary, half the time scowled and was so blunt with everyone around him. He even spoke to Jimmy tauntingly and with a sharpness that didn't seem out of love. But he did let Tommy touch his wings when he was uncomfortable somewhere. He did show Tommy so much sympathy, and he was very funny when Tommy seemed to get bored. He even promised he'd create some sort of game to keep Tommy on his feet and get him around the castle.

The tears weren't stopping and his breathing was making more noise than he wanted it to, so he went to inhaling deeply through his nose, blowing out through his mouth. He rubbed his hands on his pants and stood up to walk around. Why was he crying? He'd hardly been here a month.

It didn't make sense. Jimmy seemed like he wasn't even ready to be a parent. He relied on Scott so often to guide him into being perfect and it stripped him of any interesting qualities. But he told him stories as they visited the horses and owls. He was honest with him and treated him like a person with emotions and thoughts. He let Tommy pry into his life and answered as honest as he could.

It hurt to breathe and he could barely see. He was struggling to breathe, gold flashing his vision as the sun caught his eyes. He was also coughing which lead to a sob escaping from his throat. He couldn't stop it. He didn't even understand why he was freaking out. He didn't even like it here… he wouldn't miss any of it.

5) Jimmy is really good at comforting people.

"Tommy? Tommy, I'm coming in-" Jimmy opened the door and instantly was next to the avian.

"Tommy, I need you to listen to me okay?" Jimmy followed Tommy down to the floor as he landed on his knees. At least he didn't fall.

"Can you hear me? I just need you to squeeze my hands if you can" Tommy barely was registering the words. He didn't know why Jimmy was in front of him, looking so worried.

"Okay. I'm going to hug you." It seemed so obscene to be told that in the moment. It let Tommy pause his mental state for just a moment before he felt arms around him and pressure pinned on his body. Jimmy was a lot stronger than he looked.

"I've got you, Tommy. You're safe. I've got you" Jimmy held Tommy so tightly he was a little fearful he'd be bruised. But it didn't feel bad.

Tommy hiccuped and was still crying and shaking, but he wasn't sobbing. He wasn't in hysterics. He could think. Jimmy was hugging him, and now rocking him as if he was some sort of child who needed soothing.

…Tommy closed his eyes, slowly leaning and putting all of his weight into Jimmy. And the hiccups persisted. So did the shaking. But he couldn't find it in himself to cry anymore. So he pushed his cheek into jimmys shoulder and shuddered a sigh. Jimmy never once lessened the pressure on Tommy. He held him so tightly he could hear his own heartbeat.

"Tommy" Jimmy whispered. Tommy grunted back. He could sense Jimmy smiling. This was no smiling matter. Tommy pressed his face deeper into the older.

"It's okay, bud. I've got you. I promise you're so safe." Jimmy slowly mannered them so they could at least sit without cutting circulation off.

"One time when I was a kid, I had met Scott for the third time. He would refuse to look at me because I got slime in his hair the last time. So I decided I was going to force him to look at me." Jimmy was still rocking him back and forth. Tommy felt so heavy, and tired. So he didn't move.

"It was at this big conference thing, so I had to be very careful what I did. But I was very determined." Tommy may have smiled a little. "But I knew what chair's he would be sitting at. So I started leaving him all these notes. I never signed them, and I never ever let anyone see me leave them. The only person who knew was my mate Joel." Jimmys voice was so gentle and calming.

"Well obviously I'm not very good at hiding my identity through my art, and for some weird reason Scott guessed who was leaving the notes after he payed super close attention to Joel or something." Jimmy faked his disbelief. "But he looked at me! And In my books? I had won." Tommy smiled knowing this wasn't the end.

"However, apparently they don't like it when you write them notes with very poor drawings on them"

"What?" Tommy coughed, now laughing.

"Listen, I didn't actually know what to write, so I just had drawn a bunch of fish and weird stick people-"

"What did you tell Joel?"

"Well- I told him to say that they have some sort of hidden code. Giving him random words as hints." Jimmy sighed.

"Joel had started insinuating I was begging for his attention." Jimmy grumbled. "Big traitor he was."

"That's a really complicated way of…"

"I was not begging for attention!" Jimmy laughed.

"Sure" Tommy snickered, relaxing back into the adult. He was glad Jimmy let the quiet rest for a moment. At some point the pressure had lessened and a hand was rubbing his back between his wings. It felt so nice and Tommy could feel himself falling asleep.

"Do you want to lay down?" Jimmy asked in a whisper. Tommy thought about it. It would be warm and soft.

"No." Tommy shook his head.

"I think you should go visit your empire" Tommy expected arguments from Jimmy. But he just sighed and put his cheek on top of Tommy's head. Tommy let him.

"Maybe." Jimmy squeezed Tommy again.

Chapter Text

Breakfast the next morning stayed quiet. Tommy expected it to be awkward, hostile even. Maybe not from Jimmy, but certainly from Scott. However; when Tommy shuffled into the dinning room, Scott smiled at him.

"Good morning, Tommy" His voice was so warm and welcoming, Tommy almost wished Scott would be mad or upset with him. Or at least not be as cheery as he was.

"After we eat, We're going to walk down to the flight platforms." Jimmy said around his food. Scott glared at Jimmy for the action but didn't comment.

"I can't fly" Tommy deadpanned. Jimmy's face flushed and his shoulders tensed.

"I know. You're not flying. I am. I decided to go back to the Cod Empire for a few days. Three to be exact." Scott watched for Tommy's reaction, hiding it by pretending to be cutting into his food. He wasn't that sneaky though. Tommy obviously always knew. He didn't give a big reaction. He had encouraged Jimmy to go. Sure… Maybe he was a little disappointed Jimmy was leaving, but it was selfish to make Jimmy stay when he was clearly stressed out.

He looked at Scott after a moment of saying nothing. No one said anything. They just ate and Scott let the time pass. Scott was frustrating. He switched moods in seconds and either had to say everything, or he said nothing. Tommy had never met someone so inconsistent. Okay, that was a lie, but it didn't make it any better. Jimmy seemed to also just let the conversation die. Tommy shifted and focused on eating. He wondered if the cooks they hired were trained to cook the food this good or if they happened to be natural and lucky talent.

The walk to the flight platform was also quiet. Scott would occasionally point out flowers they passed, commenting that somehow they survived the cold. Rivendale still had a spring, it was just still cold. Tommy also didn't understand how Jimmy was going to fly without wings, but he figured they'd explain at some point. He really should be more weary as he followed them blindly. They avoided the town and walked alongside the outskirts. It was more of a hike and Tommy tried to hide the fact he was out of breath as they approached a wooden dock and shack. The wood was dark like the rest of the wood in the kingdom and Tommy had to look around to see if they had deforested the nearby forests to build. There was a lot of tree's.. Maybe they had a magical infinite source.

"So… Are you like, a Flying fish? You have those tiny wings and you use them to jump out of the water?"

Jimmy laughed and opened the shack. There was golden wing braces pinned to the wall, a few wooden ones. They were all designed for wings like Scott's. Huge- full and four times as big as his were. His wings opened and he looked at them. He hadn't worked up the courage to ask them if they'd keep up with clipping them. Maybe if he was lucky, they'd forget all about it.

"I have these. a friend made them for me." Jimmy held up a pair of mechanical and fabricated wings. they looked like they belonged to some sort of leathery creature. It felt like he was looking at someone skinned wings. It made him shudder.

"It makes everything a lot easier. Can you imagine if I actually had to swim everywhere?"

"Isn't that supposed to be your whole thing?" Tommy looked Jimmy up and down. Jimmy puffed and shook his head.

"No- I mean yes, But it gets inconvenient at a point. There's only so far you can travel." Jimmy sighed.

"It's a very sad thing for him. He's so sensitive to the cold water, he'd freeze instantly" Scott joked. Jimmy glared and struggled to put the wings on. Scott watched him for a moment before giving in and helping. It looked awkward as he got them on. But once he did, and the straps were secured, Jimmy looked… so cool. His wings were big, not enough to intimidate Scott, but still big. They made him look a lot cooler than he really was (in Tommy's opinion).

"Alright-"

"You have everything?" Scott asked.

"Not much to have"

"Jimmy." Scott glared. Jimmy smiled and leaned in, pecking Scott on the lips. Tommy cringed and looked away before a hand was on his shoulder.

"You promise you'll be okay?" Jimmy was looking down at Tommy. Tommy shrugged.

"I'm a big man. I can handle it." Tommy shoved his hands in his pockets not expecting Jimmy to pull him into a tight hug. Tommy blinked before relaxing and hesitantly hugging Jimmy back. It didn't seem like the codfather would have let him go without reciprocation.

"Okay… Send an Owl if you need anything and I'll be over right away." Jimmy looked between the avians (was Scott an avian?).

"Okay. We will, I love you Jimmy" Scott smiled. Tommy didn't know what to say so he gave an awkward thumbs up. It was weird to miss someone you just met a few weeks ago. Scott pulled Tommy to stand back as they watched Jimmy prepare for takeoff. A ping of jealousy hit his stomach. Having to watch someone that didn't even have wings go off and fly. Actually fly- while he was stuck. He stared at Jimmy as he got a running start. His body got warmer and he couldn't place it. He had watched people around him fly constantly. His first foster family had two avians. his second had one. They had always been allowed to fly.

Tommy didn't realize until they came into view that Scott had extended a wing. he was almost standing touching shoulders with the emperor. He was warm because Scott was shielding him from the early cold, keeping him close. He looked at Scott while Scott focused on Jimmy flying off into the distance, keeping forward. Scott looked so sad to see him go. He wondered if that was why Scott's wing was around him, keeping him from escaping.

They stood in the silence for a while. The longer they stood there, now just watching the birds, the (weirdly) warmer Tommy was. He also realized he was sort of tired still from his meltdown and not sleeping super well. So that was absolutely the only reason he found himself suddenly leaning on Scott. And Scott just let him.

"…Do you want some hot chocolate?" Scott asked. His voice was so soft, and so almost scared. It made Tommy wonder how this next week would go without Jimmy. He didn't get to see Scott as just Scott yet. Even when he shadowed him, Scott always went back to Jimmy. Now what? What was Scott like when Jimmy wasn't there? Would this be his breaking point if Tommy snapped again?

Scott and Tommy sat in a small booth across from one and other. they both had steaming drinks in front of them, topped with an absorbent amount of whipped cream. They sat in silence. Tommy was trying to figure out if it was awkward or not, just based on the fact Scott hadn't really met his eyes since they ordered. So Tommy pipped up first.

"So… Do you get free drinks? Will I get free shit?" He asked. That got a smile out of Scott. A genuine one at that!

"No. If anything, I probably pay more." Scott looked at his drink.

"What?" Tommy frowned.

"Why would I, someone who makes them pay taxes, take more away from business?" Scott wasn't being insulting as he quizzed Tommy. He was genuinely asking.

"Oh. And they don't just give you things?"

"They try. But I always turn it down so I can pay. It doesn't seem fair." Scott was careful wrapping his hands around his mug.

"…Will I get spending money?" Tommy was hesitant. He knew they'd give him what he needed (he hopped anyway) but there were just some things he'd prefer to get without having to ask. Scott stared and thought about it.

"It's a conversation to be had, but I won't say no. Is there something you wanted to buy? We're in town, so lets shop while we're here" Scott suggested. Tommy nodded. It was something. If he could save up at least, he could manage his way through and have backups in case things went south.

"Okay. I was just curious." Tommy focused more on his hot chocolate. Scott seemed to do the same. "How come people aren't staring at us? Or you- Everyone seems so normal that you're around."

"I try to get out often- I don't want to be an absent ruler. Making connections- knowing people and actually letting people trust me is how I actually have my kingdom in order" Scott smiled a little. "It would be horrible if I were swarmed every time I went outside."

"And you're not worried about… them seeing me?" Scott shrugged as if him debating about announcing the adoption with other rulers wasn't a fight.

"No. They can think what they want to think. They weren't happy when I married Jimmy and they'd talk a lot. But here we are now. I'm still their Emperor and they still like and respect me. The thing is- Tommy. They're people too. Not just… Subjects. Everyone here has their own lives." Tommy looked around. The restaurant wasn't very crowded at the moment.

"See those two over there? With the curly hair, darker skin?" Scott smiled. "Their names are Jamie and Sabrina. They're triplets, their sister is named Sarah. They run a tutoring program, and are working on a proposal to take the kids out of Rivendale for a trip." Scott looked around.

"Or- him?" A man with green hair, lounging at the bar area and laughing loudly at something the worker just said. "Opal. A herb and gemologist. Helps determine what resources will continue to be useful." Scott pointed these people out like he knew them personally. Maybe he did.

"Wow, I feel like that's a lot of effort having to remember so many names" Tommy looked up, leaning back. "I mean- how many people even live here? There's no way you just know everyone."

"Oh, I don't know everyone, But I make a point to allow people to talk to me, and I take interest in those I come across. I had a proposal meeting with Sabrina, and Some of my advisors communicate with Opal a lot about the value to need ratio. It's good to know them to make sure they're happy, and letting them assure me the town is happy." Scott seemed so confident in his ruling style without Solstice and Aviel breathing down his neck.

"Speaking of school.." Scott shifted. Tommy wanted to tune him out. "You have some options."

"Is no school an option?"

"Not really."

"what if I asked Jimmy?"

"Jimmy is the one whose more worried about your schooling than I am" Scott smiled a little. "He'd probably have you attend school in the Cod Empire, or even the Ocean empire." Scott brought his drink to his mouth. School was hard. Teachers never seemed to like Tommy and that feeling was always mutual.

"We're going to give you some options, and you have the final say." Scott looked down as he set his cup down. "And it's your choice. Aviel Might try to pull you aside, but don't let him push you one way or the other…" Tommy saw how nervous Scott had suddenly become. Why was he the nervous one?

"Okay.." Tommy narrowed his eyes at the Emperor.

"So, we do have a public school for all rivendale and adjacent areas. You'd go just like any other kid. You would not get special treatment, and we'd expect and hope you won't abuse your position…" Scott eyed Tommy. His face flushed. He totally would not use his status over classmates. (maybe he'd be more popular if he did).

You can be home schooled." Scott continued on.

"It's what I went through. And Aviel would be your teacher. You'd have more of a focus on politics and history- so you wouldn't be on the same page as public students, but it would be just you and Aviel. And you'd have a separate teacher in the Cod Empire. They'd come up with a duel curriculum." Scott didn't look pleased about that option either.

"Was Aviel your teacher?" He asked. Scott made a face.

"Yeah. He is a good teacher, but it's hard to just sit there sometimes." Scott focused on his hands being warmed by the mug.

"Okay… Anything else?" Tommy felt like his options weren't great.

"Two others. You go to school in the cod empire. Also a public school, but you'd be expected to be in the water a lot" Scott looked at Tommy's wings. Tommy looked at his own and frowned. They weren't big, but they'd still get heavy.

"Or- You go to a School over the mountains. It's not a long flight, once your wings grow back you'd be able to get there on your own. My friend Gem is the head Wizard at the school. It's magic based, and while I don't know how magically in-tune you are… You'd still be learning." Scott was giving Tommy so many options. He had to pick from them though, and there was always a downside to something.

Tommy shifted and shrugged. Public School was hard, and other kids kind of sucked. Teachers sucked more but Tommy had the idea that he'd have that issue no matter where he went.

"I'd be alone if I was with Aviel, right?"

"Yeah. For four hours at a time."

"Only four?" Tommy's eyes got a little wide.

"At a time. That could be two-four hour sessions in one day depending on what you need to learn" Scott reminded. It still sounded a whole lot better than being stuck in a school all day.

"who wold be my teacher in the Cod place?" Tommy leaned more into the booth seat.

"I don't know. Jimmy had a different way of growing up and established the political things after. It would be a conversation between us. His staff is really nice, though." Scott was so honest with him that Tommy figured there would have to be a catch.

"But I'd still be alone? No one else?" Tommy wondered if Scott could see the flawed logic in that. It seemed to dawn on him as Tommy pointed it out.

"While learning, But maybe I'll start giving you tasks that make you go around Rivendale. Get you out of the house for a while." Scott smiled. "..there are a good amount of kids here. Our Schools are as big as they've ever been, so I'm sure you could find friends just by going out if that's what you're worried about, Tommy" Scott had this look in his eye. Tommy couldn't place it but it defiantly seemed sad.

"If I went to the school with the Wizard, would he teach me magic?"

"She would defiantly try. But there's no guarantee you'll get it."

"Do you know magic."

"Some."

"Does Jimmy?"

"does talking to fish count?" Scott smiled.

"Jimmy can talk to fish?" Tommy stared. Scott snickered and nodded. Tommy beamed at him. "What can you do?" Tommy asked. Scott raised his eyebrows and stayed quiet. Tommy didn't understand until Scott slid his cup over to him. Tommy hurried to catch it, fearful it would spill into his lap and burn him. But when he grabbed it- it was frozen. It was solid and heavy, and frozen.

"You have ice powers?" Tommy looked at Scott. Scott smiled.

"Yeesh, you are overpowered. No fair!" Tommy laughed.

"Can you unfreeze it?"

"Unfortunately not. That would be connivent though, huh?" Scott smiled at Tommy. Tommy sighed.

"At least you have a flaw."

"I have many"

"What?" Tommy shot up, looking at Scott who hid his smile behind his hands.

"Hm?"

"You said you have many flaws?"

"What? I never said that. I'm perfect, obviously. In every way." He giggled. Tommy glared but smiled back, finding himself giggling along.

They did do shopping. They ventured store to store, sometimes for Scott who would find jewelry he liked. Mostly for Tommy who stared at something enough for Scott to notice and take action. That meant a few informal (but still really nice) clothing items. Things that were more normal to what he came in with. (Luckily he still had his old clothes. He didn't think they'd let him take the new ones if he was kicked out.)

Tommy also got a few odd things here and there. This set of music disks, and his own jukebox. He knew there were a few among the castle, but very spread out. So having his own meant he could listen to whatever he wanted. He also got a set of cards, and a trading card game. He wasn't interested originally until Scott told him that it might become helpful in school or socially.

The crazy thing was that they only had to carry a few things. The jukebox would be handmade and delivered to the castle in two days, the clothes would be set aside to be shipped to the castle. They had to ask for that to be an option, but it seemed to easy. The ladies running the shop said they would come around during morning mail.

They were at what was deemed their last shop. It was a shop Scott actually wanted to stop at. it was a nice flower shop. It was much warmer inside than it was out, and Tommy stood up a little straighter as his bones defrosted.

"I need to talk to the shop keep. There's some room decoration on the left if you wanted to look." Tommy nodded and moved around. The smell was definitely overwhelming and it made Tommy's nose itch a little. But it was pretty. He'd give it that. The flowers were separated by family and then by color, some arranged in really pretty bouquets.

The wall decoration wasn't anything fancy. Some paintings that Tommy didn't understand, or historical decorations, photos of Rivendale. Bundles of lights were stacked in a corner and Tommy considered them briefly. They were the cool ones that looked like raindrops.

He moved forward though and something caught his eye. A painting. Most of the canvas was this deep blue, and then there was this Golden stag in the center. It was just the shape. No features or details. Some lighting maybe… but the longer Tommy stared at the photo the more it felt like he was being watched. He looked around briefly before looking back at the painting. It was drawing him in for a reason he couldn't explain.

"Do you want it?" A voice came from behind him. Tommy shrieked and spun around, his eyes wide as he looked at the person. He… wasn't an elf. He was a sheep hybrid. A sheep? Tommy glared.

"Oi! Warn a man before you scare him!" Tommy huffed. The other boy put his hands on his hips and looked at him sideways.

"Who are you? Are you with Emperor Scott?"

"I'm not telling you!" Tommy rolled his eyes.

"Why not?"

"Because you don't need to know! Just know I am the greatest person you'll ever meet. And leave it there." Tommy brushed hair off his face. the boy looked small. Smaller than Tommy was- which was scary to think about because if these elves were already tall, here was this little guy who always had to crane his neck up and-

"Did you want the painting or not?" The kid rudely cut in.

"…I don't know" Tommy responded much less confidently.

"Huh. Are you religious?" The kid asked. Tommy frowned at him.

"What does that have to do with anything?"

"Well that's-"

"Toby!" A woman's voice called out. "Toby that was very rude, apologize." She was also a sheep hybrid. She had big white curly hair that was colored at the end.

"Well he was looking-!"

"Doesn't matter, I'm sorry Scott, I didn't know Toby had left the back"

Scott looked a little lost at the conversation but smiled at the woman. "No worries. This is Tommy." Scott moved over to Tommy. He met him in the middle. He stared at Toby who glared at him for a moment. In shear bravery, he hid behind Scott's wings.

"Well, Nice to meet you Tommy. You can call me Puffy" she extended her hand. Tommy looked at Scott who adjusted his wings to un-hide Tommy.

"Uh- yeah. Nice to meet you." He took her hand. It was weird and Tommy decidedly did not like handshakes. Puffy looked between Scott and Tommy for a moment before her eyes were wider.

"Oh goodness-! Scott he looks just like you- when- oh he looks grown a bit- don't tell me-"

"It's okay- it's okay." Scott smiled. "I just ask you don't spread the news around just yet." Scott's hands met in front of him. Puffy nodded, looking to Tommy and smiling.

"Right- and this is Tubbo." Puffy smiled. Tubbo? He thought it was Toby.

"Hello" Tubbo waved. Scott nodded. "Nice to see you too, Tubbo. Thank you Puffy, and I hate to rush, but we do need to get back soon." He looked at Tommy. Tommy took another look at the paintings before shaking his head.

"Okay! Well have a wonderful day. Thank you for stopping in. I'm so delighted to hear the news" Puffy waved them out of the shop.

Tommy didn't spark a conversation about it. That was a lot of information. This whole day has been so much information. He wouldn't mind the boredom of doing nothing. Scott respected his silence and walked along side him, moving along the path that would lead them back home. And getting home, and out of the cold, was again, Tommy's favorite part. And now his nose didn't itch!

Scott sat the bags down on the floor and sighed dramatically. "I'm exhausted. That was too much for a whole morning" he moved over to the couch on the right of the right stairs. Tommy followed. Setting his bags with the ones Scott dropped. He watched Scott spread his wings and fit in the corner of the couch, leaning over the arm and resting his arm on his forehead.

"I forget how many shops are here." Scott thought for a moment. Tommy stayed standing in front of him and shrugged.

"You should get out more often." Scott looked at him a bit sideways before smiling.

"You are correct. I should." Scott leaned his head back. Tommy looked around and didn't know exactly what to do. Scott must have been watching because his wing expanded again and he shifted to allow Tommy to come sit. And?

He did. Tommy's feet were tired cold from being outside. He was just going to sit upright next to Scott's slouched and improper posture. The moment he sat down though, Scott's wing came down on him and he was forced to lay on Scott if he didn't want to be hit in the head. It was instantly warmer. Scott stayed still and his breathing was even. Tommy could see the light a little, but it was mostly dark. He could see the inside of Scott's feathers. They were beautiful. The ones near the top bone were white, very clean. But being the inside- the white really wasn't prominent. There was shadows of it, speckles and dots. But the inside of them was very tan and brown. Not dark- but not white either. Tommy reached out carefully to smooth a stray feather out. Scott shuddered and shifted his wing so the bone laid on his shoulder and covered him like a blanket.

"Jimmy told me you found the portrait room." Scott said softly. Tommy froze, not blinking and hoping his heart rate stayed calm.

"The what?" He played dumb.

"The portrait room. The room with all the paintings? Behind the curtain?" Scott tried to keep his voice level. Tommy wishes he'd get the anger over with.

"Yeah. And? maybe you shouldn't be keeping secrets." Tommy's heart was now beating. He shouldn't be doing this to Scott.

"I'm not upset, Tommy." Scott assured, his hand finding itself in Tommy's hair. Tommy did not melt. "A little sad you went in there when I told you not to. But I can't be mad at you for it."

Tommy hated it. He hated how genuine Scott sounded. How his accent was heavier as he spoke softer and how it was just enough he could understand.

"I have a sibling." Scott admitted. His fingers were dragging over Tommy's scalp and Tommy's eyes fluttered shut.

"They no longer live here, and they're not allowed here."

"What'd they do?" Tommy asked.

"I don't want to share that right now. But he betrayed me and hurt me greatly."

"Where are they now?" Tommy didn't know where these questions were coming from. Scott's fingers felt so good scratching his scalp.

"….they're engaged and residing in another kingdom." Scott sounded unsure. Tommy shifted to press his face into Scott's chest. His eyebrows furrowed for a moment.

"Scott." Tommy asked, his voice raspy. Scott's hand never left his hair.

"Hm?"

"You looked… different in the painting." Tommy didn't know how to describe it.

"Well I aged from then to now, Tommy" Scott laughed. Tommy glared and scoffed.

"Well I know that!" Tommy looked up to see Scott peeking down at him. Scott grinned. Tommy tried to hide his smile.

Tommy still didn't quite know what to make of Aviel. They seemed so nice when they'd say hi, offer Tommy tea when he was wondering around the castle. But he also saw the way Scott looked so tired and beat down from his one-on-ones.

Aviel had agreed to meet with them soon. Apparently they were handling some thing going on in the churches. Tommy didn't push for more questions. He sat in the advisors office across from them and next to Scott. Scott gave him three days before they'd talk to Aviel to discuss his schooling.

"I want to do private studies." Tommy watched the words process on Aviel's face. The older didn't express huge excitement, no expression other than a slight smile and their eyes creasing in the outer corners.

"I'm very happy to hear that. Am I correct in assuming you wish me to teach?" Aviel looked at Scott. Scott nodded, his shoulders relaxing as Aviel was calm in their response. For some reason the image of Aviel yelling didn't seem right.

"I was hoping you'd collaborate with the cod empire to get him caught up on core skills, as well as some regional experience." Scott sounded so professional. Should Tommy have a professional act? Tommy sat up a little straighter, looking at Scott to mime the way he sat. He doubted he looked nearly as graceful.

"Ah- so I won't be his only tutor." Aviel tilted their head. Scott shook his.

"No. I want him to have duel educations and education in both empires." Scott looked at Tommy, doing a double take when he noticed the posture change. It was already annoying to keep up.

"Of course. That makes sense. I will draft up a syllabus right away and have it owled over." Aviel moved to pull some paper out of a drawer. Scott moved closer to the edge of his seat.

"Actually, Aviel." Scott waited for the advisor to look at him. "I wanted to allow Jimmy's advisors create a lesson first and have you work with that." Scott radiated fear, but he looked stern, cold.

Aviel blinked a few times, and let themselves look taken back and offended for a moment before regaining a calm and neutral expression. "Oh. Did you make this choice, Emperor?" Aviel asked. Scott held his hands tightly in his lap.

"Or did Tommy ask for this?"

"Jimmy suggested it. He suggested that the cod empire make the guide, and you could fill in the details." Scott prevented Tommy from answering. Aviel still looked at Tommy.

"I dunno. I'm cool with it-" Aviel looked a little disturbed at the causality of Tommy. "I mean, if it's what they think is best for me. Either way I'm learning." Tommy looked at Scott. Scott smiled back.

"Is there a problem with that, Aviel?" Scott asked. His voice was still level, cold, he looked a bit calmed as Aviel was settling with it.

"I think I have a pretty good lesson plan lined up, and I think Tommy would benefit more from my outlines." Aviel shifted their shoulders. "But I will respect the choice. I will want to meet with the teacher, of course."

"Of course" Scott agreed. "Let's have them return when Jimmy does. That way you can talk straight away."

"I'd be able to start with basics now-"

"Let's let Tommy settle in for a bit longer. No need to rush him." Scott stood. "Anything else?" He looked at Tommy. Tommy blinked and looked at Aviel. He didn't know what possessed him before he nodded and stood up.

"Hey. Either way, learning is learning and learning is boring." Tommy watched the tips of Aviels ears turn pink. He could hear Scott's quiet noise of disapproval, but it wasn't exaggerated.

"I hope I can change your mind." Aviel coughed, standing and following them to the door.

"Scott." Aviel said clearly.

"Wait outside Tommy, I'll be right there." Scott nodded at Tommy. Scott didn't let the door close.

"I don't agree with this. The cod empire is too new, and has limited resources."

"And I don't think keeping him trapped here and locked in with only the knowledge of one person is good for him either." It was weird to hear Scott speak in such a protective way.

"And have you thought about what we've discussed?"

"I'm not talking about this with you. I'd rather you not ask about it again in fact" Scott hissed.

"Scott Major." Aviel scolded. "Out of your many duties, this is one that you cannot just ignore. In fact, I am disappointed that you would treat this subject as some sort of shame placed on your head." Scott didn't reply.

"You best make sure your graces are good. If everything is going so well, you wouldn't want that to change." Scott was still quiet. Tommy was pressed to the wall, holding his breath. They weren't very good as hiding their voices, and Scott never shut the door.

But still- it felt like he was intruding.

"You have a child now. You can no longer be one. Pull yourself together and understand that. So what's right for your kingdom." Aviel sounded so scarily calm. Like he was warning Scott his doom was coming. It made a shiver go down his own spine.

"Yes, Aviel." Scott spoke.

"If there's one thing to say, he acts just like Jimmy." Aviel's voice for further away. Tommy didn't know of that was an insult or not.

"Goodnight." Scott said, moving to leave the room. Tommy hurried over to the stairs, pretending as if he had just been lingering there. Scott's eyes were glassy and his nose was red, but he smiled at Tommy.

"Do you want to see something?" He asked. Tommy perked up.

"Depends. What have you got?"

"It's a surprise" Scott held his hand out to help Tommy stand. Tommy took it and walked down the stairs with Scott.

"One of Rivendales trades is wool. It's the biggest trade actually. Aviel will tell you, but house Blossom is one of our biggest trade allies." Tommy just nodded and listened as Scott brought them outside. It was afternoon and decently warm. Tommy got away with just carrying his jacket. The compression shirts helped a lot and the inner coating of his shirt was soft and kept heat in. He found himself wearing a lot more blue these days. It was an interesting change.

They walked around the outside of the castle until they got to smaller looking buildings with large doors and equipment all around. It was a decent walk, but Tommy survived it. No worries for him. It didn't make the smell of animal more potent as he inhaled sharply.

"We can take a pause here, it's okay." Scott smiled at Tommy, patting his shoulder. Tommy shook his head.

"What the fuck is that smell?" He looked around them. Scott laughed.

"Really?"

"Yeah, really! What is it?! It's gross!"

"We're at the barns." Scott nudged Tommy along. Tommy followed reluctantly but entered a barn. Most the animals were sleeping, there were a few standing up and munching on food. They were all-

"Sheep. Not slaughtered. They're here for their wool-" Scott lead Tommy deeper into the barn. They were all blue.

"Colored wool is our main export. But the castle keeps most of the blue sheep for the castle projects." The words scott said sounded like gibberish as he watched a few cows walk up to him. They were all different shades of blue. Light- medium- even dark.

"But here, this isn't all" Scott moved to the back of the barn. Tommy followed, not sure what to say. The smell was still overwhelming.

It's weird timing," Scott opened one of the pens, letting Tommy in. There were two blue sheep in a corner sleeping next to each other. The second one was so small, just a little thing.

"A lamb. Born a few weeks before we started the process" Scott leaned on the fence. Tommy was so close, he wanted to reach out but his judgement told him not to.

"…I try to name most of them. I don't always remember their names, but if I've got time, I tag them. Did you wanna name her?" Scott just said it. No build up- no speech. He just asked.

"What? Really?"

"of course. She won't be slaughtered, and you can even start helping care for the sheep so you can see her more." Tommy stared at the sheep. She was another life in this world. She had a totally different life- her mom was here. She automatically had a community that accepted her, and love, and not just love, but humans to take care of you with respect for you.

"Tommy?" Scott was just behind him.

"Uhm- yeah- can we call her friend?"

"Friend?"

"Yeah..? Is that-"

"I'll help you tag her later on. Maybe I'll have some time tomorrow" he smiled. Tommy smiled back.

Tommy laid on the floor as Scott read his book. He could tell Scott was wanting to be alone, yet Tommy was insistent at being by his side. He wanted to avoid Aviel after the conversation. He didn't know if they would seek Tommy out given the chance, but he didn't want to risk it.

"do you have an owl tower where everyone keeps his their owls?"

"no." Scott sighed, flipping the page. Tommy stared at the ceiling before turning his head to look at Scott. He looked like a king. Fancy, someone who didn't blend in. Important. He looked a lot more like his mom did from the portrait. Stoic, able to command a room. Far from the little scared looking kid he was painted to be.

"Do you hold lots of events?"

"no."

"Why?"

"Because Rivendale is a quiet kingdom. Celebrations are formal and light." Scott didn't look up.

"What are you reading?" Tommy squinted at the book. It was in a language he didn't know.

"A book" Scott smiled a little at his own joke. Tommy glared.

"Whats the book about?"

"You don't want to know" Scott flipped another page. Tommy was tired of hearing the pages.

"Fine." He huffed. a moment passed. Before Tommy gave in. "I'm bored.

"Hi bored, I'm Scott" Scott did an awful job of not smiling.

"Scott!" Tommy groaned, putting his hands over his face. He didn't want to handle that. This. Any of whatever Scott was doing.

"Okay, Okay" Scott set his book down in his lap. He leaned his head back, his hair falling over the side of the couch. The library got really cozy around noon. There were skylights that made it bright enough to see, but not enough to hurt your head.

"How about this. I need you to run and do an order check on one of our lumbers." Scott watched Tommy sit up. He winced as he sat up too fast and the world spun.

"What's that?"

"I'll give you a map, you'll go down to the shop, ask them for their Order Check. That's all you'll need to do. They'll give you a folder and you bring it to Solstice. Or me. Preferably me if I'm not busy." Scott smoothed the pages out in his book.

"So I just ask for this and they'll give it to me?"

"You're wearing castle clothes. They'll know you at least come from here." Scott affirmed. He looked at Scott with a raised eyebrow.

"Is that all?"

"I can find more for you to do in the meantime" Scott shrugged. Tommy narrowed his eyes.

The wood shop wasn't a horrible hike. Scott had given him two options and he decided to go around the town so he didn't get lost faster. Maybe he'd challenge himself on the way back. It was warmer than it had been the last time, and he figured that because there was still snow on the ground it should have been cold. So now his coat was wrapped around his waist and his face felt hot as he pressed on. It was a lot of downhill too which didn't help, and didn't make him excited to go back. Maybe the shop keep would let him just sit there for a while to catch his breath.

At least the breeze was nice on his wings.

The relief that flooded him was even more warming as he realized he did not in fact go the wrong way. The building was closer to the woods- obviously- and a small shack. It was classic cabin style with a sign messily painted outside. It looked different from the nice and classical buildings that made up Rivendale.

Tommy puffed his chest out before coughing, his lungs still burning a little from the walk. He moved to the door and hesitantly pushed open the door. It was nicely lit through the windows, and as clean as you could get a wooden shack. Signs hung on the wall and listed prices and other services.

"Hello?" Tommy called out. He looked around, moving around stacks of wood and sculptures. He got no response back. He did however hear a sharp crack from outside. Tommy jumped, his wings spreading out and knocking something over. He winced and folded them back, hurrying to fix the fallen object. It wasn't broken- thank prime. He breathed out slowly before standing back up and looking around. He caught the quick glimpse of an ax in the sky before it vanished and another crack was heard.

He tried to make himself as quiet as possible as he moved back outside. The cold was starting to get to his bones again now that he wasn't moving a lot. The snow littering the rocks helped cushion his feet as he slowly moved around the corner, peering over.

All the fear and worry washed away when he saw the familiar floppy brown hair and fabric-y ears. "Tubbo?" Tommy called. Tubbo jumped, readying the ax to swing and looking at Tommy with determination. Tommy's wings spread out and his hands went up as he took a step back.

"Whoa there, Big man." Tommy swallowed. His heart rate seemed to spike too, reminding him how thin the air was once more.

"Oh." Tubbo frowned and lowered the ax. "What are you doing here?"

"I could ask you the same thing" Tommy moved closer now, raising his eyebrows at him.

"I work here." He looked at Tommy as if that was an obvious answer.

"What about the flower shop?"

"My aunt works there."

"Then why work here?"

"You ask a lot of questions" Tubbo tilted his head at Tommy, leaning on the ax. When he tilted his head to the side it was easier to see what Tommy had missed. He tried to not stare, but it was hard to not look at. A massive scar across one side of his face. His eye was a little discolored. Tubbo narrowed his eyes at Tommy.

"I like to know things" Tommy recovered. Tubbo stared at him for a little longer.

"Why are you here again?"

Tommy's eyes widened and he snapped his fingers. "right! I'm supposed to ask for the.. Uh" Tommy squinted trying to remember what Scott said.

"Order? Something Order…"

"Order Check?" Tubbo smiled a little. Tommy hoped it wasn't because he seemed stupid.

"Yeah. That" Tommy nodded. Tubbo nodded and lent the ax against the next wood on the chopping block. Tommy stared at the ax before looking at Tubbo who dusted hus hands off.

"Come on, I'll get it. So you are with Emperor Scott? You're his kid?" Tubbo asked as he lead Tommy back inside. Tubbo had just had a tank top on and seeing that made Tommy shiver and put his own coat back on.

"No." Tommy plainly stated. He wasn't Scott's kid. Even if Scott said he was- he was just living in their house until they gave up. no point in labeling it.

"Okay" Tubbo whistled and moved behind the counter. Tommy stayed in front of it.

"Do you own…this?" Tommy looked around. Tubbo beamed.

"I wish! My aunt wants me to get out and keep my energy away from her flowers" tubbo hummed looking through some papers.

"Really?"

"Yeah. I like being out here though. It's really quiet and sometimes the animals come out from the woods and say hi!" Tubbo pulled a few papers held together out. Tubbo squinted.

"I think this is what you're looking for…"

"Who owns this then?"

"This Elvin guy named Damian. He's not around whole lot recently which is also why I'm here. He does a lot of the designing and art stuff. I just kind cut and sell." Tubbo handed Tommy the papers.

"Are you gonna go to school here?" Tubbo asked, tilting his head. Tommy liked the visual of Tubbos hair falling with his ears when he did so.

"Nah. School doesn't like me." Tommy held the papers firmly in his hands.

"Same. I wanted to be homeschooled but Puffy doesn't have time. Which is lame. All the elf kids are kinda mean." Tubbo frowned.

"Is your whole class elves?" Tommy supposed that was studpid question. They lived in an Elvin kingdom.

"No. I mean- it's mostly elves. But there's some others too. A few humans, I think there's this merfolk who lives here too. Probably moved after Emperor Scott got married" he hummed.

"Oh. Sorry I'm not there to add to the abnormal." Tommy frowned. Tubbo smiled.

"You don't wanna be there. Where are you going to school?"

"I'm homeschooled. Or I will be- it hasn't happened yet. The big people gotta talk all the boring stuff." Tommy sighed.

"Lucky."

"Maybe if you're nice to me I'll invite you in"

"Do you have the power to do that?"

"I dunno." Tommy blinked.

"If you're not Emperor Scott's kid, who are you?" Tubbo asked. Tommy blinked and tried to think of any excuse.

"Just…a kid. Who happens to live in the castle right now." Tommy shifted. "It's not permanent. I'll probably move back to the avianary at some point." Tommy wondered how long he'd make it out here.

"Huh. That's a shame. I hope you can visit when you do move back" Tubbo nodded. "You're kind funny."

Tommy's face flushed and he grinned. "You think so?"

"Unfortunately, Big Man" Tubbo grinned back. Tommy's stomach felt warm and light.

"You should come back soon" Tubbo walked with Tommy to the door.

"Maybe I will." Tommy hummed, trying to act so careless.

"I hope so. I'm always either here or at the flower shop. Puffy doesn't mind if I leave though! So we can always find things to do. There's so many places here! It's crazy." Tubbo looked at Tommy. Tommy smiled.

"Yeah! I'll ask Scott. Have fun.. chopping wood" Tommy nodded.

"Don't die on the way back." Tubbo saluted him off. Tommy smiled the whole way back.

Chapter Text

Jimmy always felt like he would lose his head had it not been attached to him. The first two days back was mostly people asking about Tommy and Scott, trying to convince Jimmy that he didn't need to be here right now. He insisted he did. It wasn't exactly like there was anything immediate that needed his attention, however he felt better actually being able to see the progress and stability. Too many times has he trusted someone only for progress to be delayed or even destroyed. Being said; that also made him anxious about Tommy and Scott. He left them after a very serious moment, and even though both of them insisted they'd be fine, Jimmy worried.

"I don't know why you're here if you're just going to be pacing the whole time" Ariadne looked over at Jimmy. Ariadne was a newer counsel, a bit older than Jimmy. She handled a lot of processing and note keeping.

"Because I don't want to just abandon the Cod Empire- think how mad the cod counsel would be, and then I'd go through the whole thing of having to show my worth again-" Jimmy waved his hands around near his chest.

"I think you've proven yourself more than enough. Plus now you have a kid. A kid changes everything." Ariadne set her pen down.

"It does change everything" Jimmy sat down in a chair, slumped and putting an arm over his face. He waited. Ariadne sighed in response after a moment of nothing.

"How was it? When you left? How are you handling it?" Jimmy peeked over at her and squinted. She was staring right at him.

"it's hard." Jimmy replied.

"It is a full human. Baby or not, you've got to center your life around him."

"Do you have kids?"

"I have a daughter" She smiled. Jimmy smiled back.

"It's just… I wish we had more time to prepare. Everyone pushed us and we agreed, and as soon as we agreed, it all happened so fast. At least with pregnancy we would have had at least nine months…"

"But you didn't want a baby?"

"No. Gods, no" Jimmy laughed. "Can you imagine? Scott and I taking shifts staying awake and dealing with our kingdoms?" He grinned, sitting up and looking at her. She tilted her head sideways.

"I can. Maybe not where you are right now, But I think you could have pulled it off eventually" She affirmed. Jimmy blinked at her, but she continued speaking before he had the chance to think on that. "Did Emperor Scott not get reprivement of his duties?" She looked so honest while answering the question. Jimmy shook his head which only added to her expression.

"He didn't give birth, so he doesn't need time to recover" Jimmy excused.

"But you still just had a new edition into your lives. Even we think you should take another week or so to go back."

"They just don't do it like that. Scott's counsel is all about work and flow, and preventing disruption" He watched the woman think this over.

"I won't speak ill, but I think not having time to adjust and spend time with Tommy will hurt Scott a lot more than his absence would hurt Rivendale." Ariadne watched Jimmy, and he could tell it was to see if she stepped out of line. Jimmy was never very harsh, but there were times he'd have to remind his counsel what their place was.

"I know. And I really tried to get Scott to pull back, but he's so-" Jimmy stopped himself. Ariadne nodded for him to continue. It was personal, and Ariadne was far from the person he would divulge his life to. But she was listening, and she was respectful. She had always been respectful and kind. He loved that he could trust his counsel.

"He's so scared of letting them down. He doesn't want to disappoint them, so he pushes himself to stay on top of things. I think it might be why he agreed to adopt Tommy now, rather than wait." Jimmy admitted. She stayed quiet and listened.

"Oh my gosh-" he gasped, startling her. She sat up more with wide eyes.

"Tommy is just like Scott. I think they're the exact same- somehow- I don't know how, but the stubbornness in them is exactly the same." Jimmy bore into her eyes. Ariadne dropped the surprised look and laughed.

"I think it's a good thing. They can bond over being stubborn together." She smiled.

"I know that my daughter is the same as her dad. Very stubborn and opinionated" She laughed. Jimmy smiled at her.

"And they get along?"

"Of course. Sometimes I think it makes their relationship stronger. They have deeper conversations and understand each other a lot more." Ariadne looked very fond of her little family. Jimmy hoped he could look like that when talking about Tommy and Scott.

"I just want to make sure they can stay afloat." Jimmy looked at her. Ariadne smiled at him.

"I'm positive they will. You're part of that equation, don't forget." She smiled at Jimmy.

Seeing so much mail made Jimmy panic a little. There was a scroll and two envelopes all tied nicely together and dropped on his desk by Scott's owl. The white owl looked at Jimmy, tilting her head to the side and staring into his soul. Jimmy frowned at her and sighed. "Scott's going to get upset if I keep giving you all these treats. But.. You did fly all the way over here." Jimmy couldn't help it as she tilted her head the other way, still begging. The Codfather sighed and reached into his desk. The owl wiggled and ruffled her feathers, cooing at Jimmy. The guilt was worth it as she took the treat happily and let Jimmy scratch her head.

"You better not have brought me bad news. Don't make me regret that treat" He pointed a finger at her. The owl just cooed back. Jimmy anxieties were not eased by that and he found himself unsure what to open first. Scott had moved away from writing on scrolls recently, but did it on occasion. The odd thing were the two envelopes. One was listed "Test Results" and that only made Jimmy's stomach sink worse. The only thing that made it better was the next envelope being addressed to Poppy. It was from Scott. That made the scroll feel more ominous, so he went with the letter.

Poppy, Tommy and I are okay. I took him into town and he seemed to enjoy the day out. He is still very inquisitive which is fine, although a little exhausting. I cannot blame him though. I keep reminding myself that. I talked to him about schooling and he decided he was okay with homeschooling. Aviel worries about his social skilling which seemed out of character but they do have a point. I've been finding tasks that keep him busy and interacting with people. I know we talked about it; but now that it's formal, want you to pick a teacher for Tommy from the Cod or Ocean Empire as I don't trust Aviel at the moment. They were not happy with my our choice of this, but I allowed them to pre-test Tommy for knowledge. If you could have someone come up with a curriculum and then join you on your return to finalize it with them, I would be very appreciative. Aviel has written a note to pass along. I have not read it, but I suggest you do to ensure there is no cohesion involved. I miss you dearly and I feel I may go crazy here soon. Tommy is what's preventing my decline. He's quite funny, but does not seem to reciprocate when I joke. With time I suppose. Dream of me as I do you, Scott

Jimmy was smiling without knowing. Even in their personal letters he was always so formal. There was just enough informality at the end that got to his heart and made his face flush as if he had been given a love letter. A good amount of the fear he held onto had melted away and he reread parts of the letter. Most importantly, the parts where Scott reassured him that him and Tommy were doing okay and making progress. Aviel had always been old school. It made sense; they were the ones who helped Scott learn and grow up. They were the closest thing to a parent that Scott had since his mum died. It didn't make them any less scary or intimidating. He looked at the scroll.

Then he realized he'd have to find someone that would educate his child. Along side Aviel. Jimmy groaned and put his head in his hands. This was his idea. His counsel was great but they were so used to the laid back and less formal hold of Jimmy. It wasn't Scott who would get on them, but the formality of the elves and Scott's counsel. They did everything in order and with precision. Jimmy saw how that effected Scott as he grew up. He didn't want to subject Tommy to that.

Jimmy looked at the scroll and hesitated before unrolling it. The script was neat and written in formal notes and then bullets. It uneased him at the fact Aviel had decided to use not just one scroll, but two. Two pages about what they wanted Tommy to learn?

The multiple pages weren't needed. Aviel repeated themselves a lot just in different words to get his points across. They did this a lot in normal speaking too. Jimmy had gotten used to seeing it and being able to call it out, and he was honestly glad that he did catch it. He would have re-written the letter to make it less overwhelming; however, a knock came at his door.

"come in" Jimmy called. He watched one of his counsel enter, sticking his head in first to ensure there wasn't an error. "Jax! Very nice to see you!" Jimmy got up, greeting the other. Jax was a younger counsel who got promoted from being an errand boy. He was a Frog hybrid; one of the many that populated the swamp. Jimmy enjoyed seeing Jax's progress. And he was funny, speaking in sort of an informal way that still was respectful. It was fun! Jimmy liked fun.

"Hey dude! Wanted to check in- See if maybe you knew when you'd be headed back and what-not." He entered, crossing his arms once he stood still.

"I don't know…I was going to try to talk to Gia about it but I feel like there's never a good time. I want to make sure I'm all caught up, you know? Don't want to leave you hanging." He leaned forward to put his cheek in his hand. Jax nodded.

"Yeah, fair. But you have a whole kid back in Rivendale. And Scott. Scott's there too."

Jimmy groaned and Jax stood a little straighter.

"Do you not want to go back? Is there trouble?"

"No! no- I do really want to go back. I'm really worried about them, but it's hard to just be absent." Jimmy had already expressed this to anyone and everyone that asked about how he was doing. He wasn't exactly helping himself by continuing to sulk.

"Dude" Jax started. Jimmy raised an eyebrow at Jax. As much as he didn't mind the "dude" thing, there was some level of professionalism he had to keep.

"sorry. Jimmy, Codfather. You've gotta just trust us. I can give you a rundown of things- Or oh! Ariadne can totally just send you progress reports every week until you come back again. You can still be involved, you just don't have to be here. We've done that before, haven't we? When Scott got sick that one time?"

"were you here for that?" Jimmy questioned the other. Jax squinted and thought on it.

"Oh- Absolutely. I was just a runner I think, but man I did a lot of running." He nodded. Jimmy hummed and looked back down at his desk.

"Do you think you could call a meeting?" Jimmy asked. "In like… An hour?" Jax stared before his eyes went wide.

"Oh! Oh man, I was sent here to tell you that there's a meeting starting in ten-" Jax looked at his wrist, "Five minutes!" He grinned. Jimmy sat up.

"What? Since when?"

"Gia sent you a letter!" Jax defended himself.

"when?" Jimmy asked again.

"Dude, I don't know- I'm not the runner anymore!"

Jimmy closed his eyes and stood up. "Okay- Okay let's go- what's it about?"

"Events or something. I've gotta be honest, I wasn't totally paying attention." Jax opened the door for Jimmy.

A good few of his counsel sat around his table all talking among themselves. When he answered the room got quieter apart from the "Hello"s he received.

"Sorry- I missed the memo, and I was working on some stuff for Tommy-" Jimmy set the letters and scrolls down. Hopefully he could figure this out during this meeting.

"We're glad you're here, Codfather" Damien stood up, greeting Jimmy. Damian was an eel, darker in skin and pretty nice. Sometimes he took the job of being in the counsel as seriously as the Elves did, but at least he had some sense of humor.

"Yeah- okay- we can start-" Jimmy looked around. His social relations team made up most of the meeting today. "uhm- What's going on!? Fill me in-"

"Grian and Scar's wedding reception is in two months. We need to make sure you're ready for that and have all of the information needed" Damien Smiled.

"oh- OH!" Jimmy's eyes got wide. "Two months? Really? That's so soon-" Jimmy looked around. Some of the counsel smiled at him a bit sympathetically or amused.

"Well- you have been busy and time seems to escape us all." Damien nodded. "But they're getting married next month and the reception is the following month. We got all of the invite information so we wanted to run it by you before sending our side off to Rivendale."

"Oh- Oh! Right, Solstice is probably nagging.." Jimmy sighed. "okay- Give me the rundown." He sat down finally, leaning forward on the table.

Damien nodded and took a paper from Ariadne. "So it's a four day event including travel. You'll use the pegasi to fly to the Avianary and then you'll reside in the guest building in the Main Hall." He read off.

"Wait-" Jimmy cut in. "Do we have plans for Tommy? Grian doesn't know about him yet-"

"I was getting there" Damien inhaled. Jimmy smiled sheepishly.

"sorry. Continue"

"Tommy will be attending. All they will see is that there is an extra guest that has an en-suit with you both. We do think you should probably announce Tommy beforehand so it's not taking away from the couple." Damien looked at another counsel who nodded in support of what he said.

"And you should probably prepare him. I don't know how many kids will be there… So that might be a good thing to keep in mind. But it would be really good for him to socialize with the others there since he'd have to know about them later on." Jimmy nodded along.

"Two months isn't a lot of time for all of that."

"well…" Damien nodded his head. "Better now than in a month."

"Is that even a good Idea? We were told to wait a bit.."

"in theory for the scenario that you would end up not adopting him. However we think that the chances are low if none-"

"Oh it's none. He's already considered adopted. Scott and I are positive about this." Jimmy's eyebrows furrowed. It wasn't like his counsel to cast doubt.

"Exactly. Which is why we think it would be okay for you to bring Tommy along with you." Damien affirmed. Jimmy relaxed, his face flushing. He saw Ariadne give him a smile before Damien continued on.

"I'm confident we can sort everything out with Advisor Solstice and his team. Is there anything that concerns you with this?"

Jimmy thought for a good moment. There was a lot of hypotheticals and what-if's. This could be entirely boring for Tommy and they'd have to juggle their friends having questions and Tommy all in four days. Scott also didn't handle traveling well and didn't care for being away from the Cod Empire or Rivendale for a long period of time. He didn't seem to know how to relax which was always a juggle. Jimmy would be fine.. Maybe. He didn't know how he'd be able to handle them both if something went wrong.

"Codfather?" Ariadne spoke up. Jimmy looked up and shook his head. Surely it would be okay.

The rest of the meeting was standard. Damien concluded that and informed him that they'd need to have a full alliance meeting with Rivendale before their trip, but that wasn't up to Jimmy to handle. His publicity advisor Gia only reported that there was excitement around the Cod Empire to meet Tommy. Everyone was thrilled to have their first "heir" and it gave them lots of hope that they would continue to thrive. It was like Tommy was some sort of beacon of hope and prosperity. Jimmy didn't know that he loved that, but as long as the Empire was happy. The Ocean empire had also gotten word and was starting to buzz about how the Cod empire was growing. It should have all been good news and Jimmy should be in the clouds with all the good news he was receiving. His empire was thriving. Something just felt off. Like it was a dream about to be ripped from his brain. 

After the meeting he waited. The issue was Gia and Ariadne seemed to be engaged in a conversation that was not ended and Jimmy was getting antsy. He waited a little until he found himself speaking unwillingly.

"I need to speak to Ariadne" He blurted. Both of them looked over at him and raised their eyebrows, smiling.

"Heard loud and clear. Have a good afternoon, Ari" Gia waved off, nodding to Jimmy. "And you too Codfather. You should visit the church soon, by the way!" They walked out of the meeting room leaving him and his note-taker. Ariadne was an axolotl hybrid coming from the Ocean empire. She started working for Lizzie before Lizzie realized she had too many staff and had to do some transfers. Jimmy thought that was a good thing in the end because Ariadne was great in many ways.

"Codfather" She tilted her head.

"I want you to be Tommy's teacher." He looked at her. The woman looked a bit taken back before her face flushed.

"Oh- I- thank you for thinking of me but I really think this should be something Gia handles. Or even Niki. I'm here to take notes and send off letters."

Jimmy shook his head. "No, I want someone who I can trust and who can hold their own against Scott advisors."

"And I'm sure Gia could do that."

"They could, But I think you'd be a much better fit. I can give you a raise! You'd travel with me occasionally- you could absolutely bring your daughter-"

"codfather" she cut off. Jimmy frowned.

"I don't know the first thing about being a teacher for a royal child."

"I don't want you to be. I mean- yeah it will become important later, but he's twelve. A twelve year old doesn't need to know the diffrence between communications and social evaluations." Jimmy got up and moved to a chair closer to her. "I need Gia here. I want you to teach Tommy with Aviel."

Ariadne looked conflicted. She looked down at her notes and avoided looking at Jimmy.

"You can work with Gia and Niki to create a draft of a curriculum and then as soon as you're done with that, we can go to Rivendale. Please?" Jimmy was defiantly childish as he frowned at her. He could have commanded her to be Tommy's teacher. But it was better to ask and convince so that she had more motivation to do it. So it wasn't a chore as much as it was an addition to her duties.

"I don't see why I am your choice for this." She admitted, looking back at him. At least his pouting got a small laugh out of her as she saw him.

"Because you have such a comforting… feel." Jimmy admitted to her. Her face flushed deeper and she laughed nervously.

"Codfather- you flatter me. And this is an honored position. I'd be silly to not accept it, but are you sure?"

Jimmy handed over the folder containing Tommys evaluation and Aviels letter.

"Please? Let me know if I can make arrangements for your daughter too, I would not mind- I promise, and nor would Scott. This is really important and-"

"Okay- Okay. It's okay Jimmy. I'll do it. I'll schedule with Gia and get to work." Jimmy beamed at her. She made the mistake of standing up before he did which allowed Jimmy to launch himself at her to hug her. Ariadne stumbled and froze before relaxing.

"Thank you-"

"I'm happy to help" she sighed.

The Cod church was a small building still. Jimmy was working on plans to make another church in the next few years, but he did enjoy the simplicity of what he had. He tried to visit when he could. He often came in the early mornings when there was a lot of young parents or older merfolk hanging about. The same could be said for today. Him and Ariadne would take off back to Rivendale as soon as Jimmy was ready. This was his last errand before leaving the Empire back in his counsels hands.

"Codfather" The priest bowed, using their thumb to smear water over his forehead.

"May the Gods look upon you and bless you and your family." Jimmy leaned forward and let the priest kiss the already wet spot on his forehead.

"And you" Jimmy replied before taking a seat in the pews. He remained quiet. He was religious enough to know the in's and out's of the church, but not nearly to the level Scott was. There was no vow, no promise to keep. Just to assure the Gods he would watch over their people and remember where he came from.

Another priest sat next to him silently. Jimmy let them and inhaled slowly.

"What does your soul reach for?" Jimmy stayed silent, thinking as he exhaled. It was easy to think when everything around him was so calm. He was so used to chaos that it seemed his brain was always on overdrive.

"Reassurance" Jimmy's voice was softer than he was used to. It was like the church just always washed him into calmness.

"Reassurance. A good thing to ask for. You have a new addition to your family, correct?" Jimmy looked at the window stained in a cods face. the light felt warm shining on him.

"Yes. I just want them to be okay. To be safe."

"Is there something preventing their safety?"

Jimmy inhaled. He was never taught that the gods always listened, but Scott was. Scott always told Jimmy that he was fearful of saying the wrong thing. The only sanctuary he had was in his own room behind the privacy of his own space.

"Themselves" Jimmy blinked.

"ah. thy self is a hard thing to avoid." The priest smiled as they talked.

"Can the Cod watch over them even if someone else has claimed them?"

"The cod can watch over whoever you ask them to. The cod like to be everywhere" Jimmy thought about the cod sanctuary in Rivendale.

"I need them to watch over Scott. To keep him safe when I cannot" Jimmy let go of his breath.

"And they will." The priest grabbed Jimmy's hand. Jimmy stared at the cod statue on the table up front. He really hoped they followed through.

Jimmy was never as happy to be cold as he was now, landing in front of the Castle and finding himself in Scott's arms. Scott hugged him so tightly he was sure his ribs would break. The smell of apple and wood hit him and he melted. Scotts hair tickled him as Jimmy put his face in Scott's neck.

"Oh- I missed you" Jimmy announced. Scott hummed and swayed them back and forth before letting go. Jimmy instantly looked around before seeing the blond. He looked almost the same. Maybe a little healthier, a little less tired. Tommy didn't have time to hide as Jimmy scooped him up in a hug just as tight, spinning Tommy around.

"And you! Oh, I'm so glad to see you!" Jimmy set Tommy down and looked at him. Tommy's cheeks were pink and he avoided looking at Jimmy.

"Yeah- Okay. Whatever, Big Man" Tommy shifted. there was the smallest hint of a smile and Jimmy would accept that. Tommys wings also looked so much nicer. He knew they wouldn't fully grow in yet, he still had some time. But they were more white, reflecting the snow around them and making them look angelic.

He seemed to start wearing Rivendale clothing. A light blue long coat fitted to him and blue earmuffs over his ears. It was spring, but it was still always cold. He almost missed it, but the pockets of Tommy's coat had both fish and antlers embroidered into the fabric. Jimmy only smiled brighter and rested his arm around the blonds shoulder as Scott lead them back inside.

Ariadne followed behind, having already said her greetings to Scott. Jimmy sort of wished she had brought her daughter so Tommy would have an in-house friend; but Ariadne assured Jimmy her Ex was okay with having her for a weekend. "It's been a while since I've been here. It's always shocking to see how pretty everything is." She smiled. Scott laughed and Jimmy's eyebrows furrowed.

"The Cod Empire is pretty!" Jimmy frowned. Tommy leaned into Jimmy as they walked, other staff taking the girls bags to her room. She looked flustered at the treatment leaving Scott to respond to Jimmy.

"It's pretty in it's own way, Jim" He hummed and grinned back at Jimmy as he let out a noise.

"Whats it look like?" Tommy squinted up at Jimmy.

"It's a swamp. a lot of green… a lot of wood."

"Isn't here a lot of wood?"

"It's a lot of wood. Think cabins." Scott responded for Jimmy. Jimmy frowned and looked down at Tommy, squeezing him into his side.

"It's brilliant and done really well and fit's in the vibe." Jimmy stayed firm as Scott just snickered.

Ariadne was dismissed and lead to her room while Scott brought him and Tommy to the garden outside (After Jimmy got into warmer clothes). "How long is the flight?" Tommy was kicking at snow as they walked, Jimmy smiled as he was put in the middle of them.

"About twenty minutes?" Jimmy shrugged. "It honestly depends on the wind and the weather. There was once it took Scott and I like- an hour." Jimmy looked to Tommy. Tommy looked at him and raised an eyebrow. Jimmy just smiled back. Tommy was such an interesting kid in the fact he just always was on guard. It was never very hard to see what he was thinking. He was very expressive when he wasn't masking whatever persona he created. He gave Jimmy a lot of sideways looks and looks that Jimmy could recognize. If Jimmy said something and laughed at himself, he'd tilt his head and question Jimmy's sense of humor. It was the same thing Scott had done when they first started being around each other. Sometimes he still got Scott to look at him like that. Tommy was also very alert to noise, turning his head and being the first to stand up when someone called.

He joked a lot, trying to fill the air when things got too quiet. He also asked a lot of questions that didn't always make sense to what was going on around him, but persisted and insisted his questions were of the utmost importance. He'd either make himself as small as possible or take up as much room as he physically could. It was so interesting to just observe and talk to him, and Jimmy wished he had been here to observe that more.

"What did you even do?"

"Talked about you" Jimmy was honest. He and Tommy sat on a bench while Scott went to go grab something. Tommy still kicked snow under his feet until Jimmy could see the stones lining the ground.

"Really?" Tommy looked over, shifting to put his hands under his thighs. His nose was already a little red from being outside.

"Really. There's a lot coming up and we gotta make sure you're all accounted for." Jimmy hummed.

"Oh. Sorry." Tommy looked down. Jimmy perked up a little and looked at him.

"Why are you sorry?"

"For making you do extra work cause I'm here?" It broke Jimmy's heart just a little. Tommy stared down at the ground and focused on his swinging legs. He looked so genuinely upset at the idea that he was an inconvenience. Jimmy didn't know how to get it through to Tommy that whatever he was thinking wasn't true. He was stubborn though, and Jimmy knew he'd hear whatever Jimmy had to say and throw it away later. It was a cycle and he needed to figure out how to break it. He wanted to make his kid feel like he belonged- like he was their kid. Because he was.

"Oh please. It would have been the same either way, we just have to make sure you're gonna be all safe and sound." Tommy hummed in response. Jimmy had lost him. He didn't know what to say. He should wait for Scott to announce their trip. It was a big thing, but He didn't know what else to say.

"What did you and Scott do? Find anymore secrets?" Jimmy nudged the kid. That got Tommy to at least look up, squinting at the sky.

"Not really… Scott's been letting me go into town though." Tommy looked at Jimmy. "Haven't gotten lost yet." He smirked.

"Really? Oh come on- How? I always get lost when I go down" Jimmy added dramatics to his frown.

"It's really easy, man. Just follow the map" He snickered, Jimmy gasping.

"Scott gave you a map?"

"Duh"

"No way- That- He never gave me one!" Jimmy complained, dragging his frozen hands down his face. Tommy snickered before giggling.

"So you're just the kings husband huh?"

"I am not! I am the Cod Father! Feared! Respected!"

"You're a fish-man." Tommy was still giggling. Jimmy tried to make his own face scrunched up.

"No! I am not just a fish-man." He argued, making Tommy grin as he tried to stop his giggling. "I'm a Big man! You said it yourself! Big Man Jim, Best ruler there is!" Jimmy was failing significantly at not smiling. He gave himself away, but Tommy didn't care.

"You're just a fish. Not even a cool fish- you're a cod." Tommy poked at him. "And Scott said something about being a small damaged egg?"

"He told you?!" Jimmy gasped. Tommy hummed and nodded, trying to act all cocky.

"I mean- I could have figured that one out all on my own. But you did just confirm it." He taunted. Jimmy groaned.

"I can't believe this. My image. Ruined." Jimmy looked up, seeing Scott walking back toward them with one of his blue lambs on a lead.

"Scott! How could you betray me?!" Jimmy pouted. Scott tilted his head, clearly not hearing Jimmy. It didn't matter as Tommy got excited, Jumping up and running to meet Scott and the lamb. Jimmy hurried after him.

"What did you say, Jimmy? I can't understand you over how cute Friend is." Scott watched Tommy say hello to the animal. The lamb "baa"'d at Tommy and head-butted his thigh. Scott looked to Jimmy after watching Tommy. There was this shine in Scott's eyes that Jimmy didn't get to see very often. Jimmy's whole body relaxed.

"So what's your friends name?" Jimmy leaned down to pet the animal.

"Scott already said it. Her names friend." Tommy nodded his head in Scott's direction. Jimmy laughed.

"Really?"

"Really" Scott nodded.

"She's become quite fond of Tommy." Scott handed the lead over to Tommy. Tommy lead the sheep along the pathway, Scott looping his arm around Jimmy's to pull him to walk.

Jimmy waited a moment, trying to let Tommy get ahead just a little. The issue was he could see Tommy sneaking glances behind him every few moments, trying to make sure Scott and Jimmy weren't leaving him behind. So Jimmy prepared himself and swallowed his pride. He didn't know a lot of elvish, and he really sucked at speaking it.

"Have you thought about scar and grians wedding?" He asked in the foreign language. It sounded broken and like gibberish, and even Tommy looked behind him and made a face. Scott stared with his eyebrows raised and a smile trying to escape.

"What?" Tommy asked. "Dude are you okay? Do you need a priest?"

"Did you get something in your throat? Or did you get cursed to speak weirdly?" Scott teased along. The worst part was that Jimmy didn't know if Scott even understood him or not.

"What- no! I'm- I was speaking elvish- I asked Scott a question! You understood that? Didn't you?" Jimmy looked at Scott. Scott's eyes crinkled and he snickered.

"All I heard was you thought the sun was scarred from weeping." Scott was making fun of him. He had to have understood.

"Scott! Scott come on- that's not true you're lying!" Jimmy frowned. Tommy snorted and laughed as he continued to let Friend lead him along.

"I'm sorry Jim, I really didn't understand you. I'm surprised I even picked up what I did." Scott's wings ruffled. Jimmy glared.

"Maybe if someone would teach me how to pronounce the words better." He argued, now pouting. Scott squeezed his arm before speaking. His voice was so accented and beautiful. The words felt like feathers on his ears and he hardly even understood what Scott said. But it was charming to hear the language spoken properly.

"The Sun's union" and "tomorrow" is all Jimmy got out of the sentence. Tommy looked back again.

"That is not the same language as whatever Jimmy spoke." He taunted. Scott laughed.

"I know. He's tried so hard but he can never get the accents right. He's too brash to speak it." Scott gagged on. Jimmy sighed.

"I'd like to hear you speak Oceanic then." Jimmy squeezed Scott's arm back. Scott's face flushed.

"At last I know what I can and can't do"

"Yeah. At least Scott doesn't embarrass himself in front of others." Tommy snickered. Jimmy rolled his eyes.

"Tommy! You gotta start taking my side, bud!" Jimmy complained. Tommy looked back and just grinned.

Scott let his clothes pool to the floor, layer by layer until he was in all his undergarments. A compression top, long shear shorts outlining his frame, and socks to protect him from the cold floors. Jimmy smiled watching him from their bed, tiling his head and just watching Scott. He was obsessed with his husband. In every way. He never once saw Scott as anything less than perfect. He was the perfect cooler to sleep next to when it was humid out; but also provided just enough warmth while in rivendale. He was often so confident in himself and he knew how to get Jimmy to fold, and Jimmy let him every time.

Jimmy smiled up at Scott as Scott came to stand between his thighs at the side of the bed. "I missed you" he said softly, his hands finding Jimmy's cheeks, then his hair. Jimmy turned his head to kiss into Scott's palm.

"And I missed you." He said back. Scott scratched his scalp and hummed.

"I hate that we have to travel back and forth" Scott let Jimmy pull him down, wrapping his arms around his waist and turning so they'd be laying in bed. Scott giggled and wiggled so he could be face to face with Jimmy.

"I know" Jimmy whispered, pressing his nose against Scott's.

"Next time we'll all travel together" Scott reminded himself.

"Very true. True true" Jimmy smiled as he felt Scott's hand on his cheek again. he stayed quiet this time, and Jimmy let the quiet settle over them.

"I love you" Scott whispered. Jimmy pulled Scott into him, holding him until Scott let out a small noise from being crushed.

"I love you too."

There was silence to a point Jimmy was on the brink of sleep. They laid there dispite Scott not having actual night clothes on, and Jimmy not having nearly any clothes on. It would look highly scandalous if anyone were to walk in. He couldn't care though. He was drifting and all he cared about was the way Scott's skin felt against his own. The way Scott's heart seemed to speed up every few minutes when he would shift just slightly.

"Jimmy" Scott whispered. Jimmy hummed and Scott gently pushed Jimmy to lay on his back. Jimmy frowned and squinted as he opened his eyes. The lights were still on.

"Jim…" Scott brushed hair out of Jimmy's eyes. Scott looked like an angel.

"Is there anything I can do for you?" Scott asked, his hand falling on Jimmy's chest as he sat up slightly. Jimmy focused on the way Scott's hair framed his face, draping off his shoulders.

Jimmy stared. "Why?"

"…I don't know if anyone's checked on you. I don't know if I've checked on you" Scott looked a little shamed by this thought. Jimmy's eyebrows furrowed.

"Wh'Uh?" Jimmy mumbled, going to lean up on his elbow to meet Scott.

"Do you need anything? Is there anything I can do better? Is there-

"Scott" Jimmy whispered, leaning up to kiss him to cut his overthinking off. Scott frowned and pulled back.

"Jimmy. I'm being serious."

"Scott." Jimmy blinked slowly, looking into Scott's eyes. "I'm okay as long as you and Tommy are" he leaned forward. Scott pressed against his chest to keep him back. Jimmy whined.

"You're a whole being, Jimmy" Scott tilted his head to the side.

"I am."

"…." Scott scanned Jimmy's face and Jimmy just grabbed Scott's wrist to hold it and pull him forward into a kiss.

"'S long as you love me, I'm okay" Jimmy whispered, kissing Scott again. Scott seemed okay this time, kissing Jimmy back. He leaned into Jimmy. His hand moved from Scott's wrist to his ribs, resting right under his chest. Scott leaned forward more, shifting so he was straddling one of Jimmy's thighs.

Jimmy laid back again as Scott's hands both rested on his chest. Their kiss that was innocent was heated now, Scott biting at Jimmy's lips and digging his nails into his skin. Jimmy pressed back, keeping Scott close to him and pushing into the kiss with nothing but hunger. He missed Scott. And Scott was okay. And so was he.

Chapter Text

"Right, and I just asked you if you knew something, and you ignored me." Scott was trying to not get upset. He was tired, and the direction this meeting was going in wasn't seeming good. He just didn't know what the actual outcome would be. He just wanted answers.

"We can come back to it later, Scott. Right now we-"

"Is Joey attending or not?" Scott snapped at Solstice. Solstice opened his mouth to snap back before Aviel grabbed his arm.

"He was sent an invite." Aviel stood up. Good, Scott was getting tired of Solstice ignoring him. If he wasn't so good at his job, Scott would fire him. "But it is not our right to know if they will attend or not."

"They?"

"Joey and his plus one." Aviel stayed looking at Scott, but Scott saw his note-keeper look at solstice with an odd look. Scott wasn't being told something.

"It's not Xornoth is it?" Scott bit the bullet. He was tired of dancing around the subject. Aviel sighed, pinching the bridge of their nose.

"Emperor. We cannot dictate if your sibling can attend a wedding they were invited to."

"Grian and Scar don't even get along with Joey" Scott pressed his hands on the table standing up. "If Joey and Xornoth are attending, I will not be. Nor will Tommy."

"Then they will miss you." Solstice crossed his legs and leaned into the chair. Jimmy gave Scott an urgent look. Scott ignored it. He was tired, and his head hurt. He didn't get to eat today, and it seemed like he kept getting bad news.

"I don't understand why it's so difficult to send an owl over to any of them really! Just to ask!"

"Xornoth is exiled from this kingdom. They are exiled from the Oceanic Empires." Aviels voice was stern, and they were holding eye contact with Scott. "They are not bound to the lost empire. They were offered shelter there-"

"There is an agreement that Joey and Xornoth will stay away from me and my family forever." Scott cut the air with his hand. "You and solstice are supposed to take care of any affairs that rise. And this is an affair that has risen."

"And you don't think it's rude to ask Emperor Joey to not bring his fiancée?" Aviel was getting an edge to their voice.

Jimmy grabbed Scott's arm, standing up to face him. "Scott-" his voice was so soft, so full of love. Scott turned to look at him. His eyes told a whole other story. Concern, Fear. "This isn't something worth fighting." Scott's heart sank.

"Think about it, Petal. The likelihood of Joey leaving the lost empire with Xornoth? The world isn't stopping just because our best friends are getting married. Joey and Xornoth are probably too busy-"

"Jimmy" Scott was so taken back. "I don't think you realize what's at stake here. Plus, They are still an allied empire to the wood elves last I checked."

"I don't think Scar even knows who Joey is." Jimmy laughed lightly.

"Do you really think they're the ones picking out the guest list? We have special standing because we are in the party- Jimmy-" Scott felt like he was going crazy.

"Scott…" Jimmy smiled, tilting his head to the side a bit. Scott knew he was about to say something stupid. He watched his hands being taken by Jimmy as the blond opened his mouth to speak. "Don't you think you're overreacting just a bit? It's already going to be stressful on Tommy-"

Scott's ears were ringing. He didn't register anything the Codfather was saying. Jimmy had had a lot of stupid moments, but this one felt like a kick to his stomach.

"Scott?" Solstice's voice brought him back enough. He couldn't look at Jimmy. Solstice looked… pitiful. He had these big worried eyes for Scott and this distaste for Jimmy.

"No- you're right!" Scott pulled his hands away from Jimmy.

"Oh! I am?!" Jimmy perked up. Scott resisted punching him

"Yup! You are absolutely right and in fact, with that I don't think I have anything else I'd like to discuss right now. Jimmy and I will-" Scott could hear his heart in his ears. Everyone's facial features turned blurry. He looked right at Elijah who was waiting to write something down. Unsure what to write in the mess of things.

"Tomorrow Jimmy and I will tell Tommy, then we will- send our reservation, and start planning our outfits-" he didn't even know what words were coming out of his mouth.

"Elijah. Please disregard any notes taken for this part of the meeting. We will rejoin and continue our discussion and feelings once we've taken a rest." Solstice said.

Scott found himself just nodding, once again being ignored. He was so done with his advisors ignoring him. "Dismissed" he called, his voice sharp as he turned around to storm out of the room.

"Scott!" Solstice called. Jimmy echoed him and ran after Scott.

"Hey- hey! Scott! Slow down" Jimmy hurried to stand in front of Scott. Scott glared, stopping.

"What? What could you possibly want right now?" Scott snapped. Jimmy's smile fell and he stood a bit straighter, trying to get closer to Scott. Scott took a step back.

"Scott- what's wrong, you don't have to worry-"

"Well I worry anyways!" Scott broke. "They could say they'll not be going and I'd still worry that they'd show up! Don't you know that? " Scott stared at Jimmy. Jimmy backed up a half step and let Scott get everything out.

"I just want someone, preferably my husband, to back me up and support me even if I am crazy!" Scott wasn't crying, his voice was raised, but he kept his distance.

"Aeor above, I just want to keep my Child and husband safe!" Scott was shaking. He thought he might pass out. Someone else stood behind him.

"And I'm sorry for not wanting to be near the person that killed my mother." Scott's wings were fluffed, expanded a bit. Jimmy backed away and glared right back at him.

"It's called paranoia Scott. I wouldn't let him-"

"Jimmy." Solstice's voice saved Jimmy from saying anything else. "It's been a while since you've heard from Ariadne, I imagine. Perhaps check in with her and Tommy?"

Jimmy looked like he wanted to tell solstice off, but thought for a second more and turned to continue dons the hallway. Scott watched him until he vanished via the stairs.

"Scott."

"I don't want to talk right now. I'd like to isolate." Scott avoided solstice hand.

"Scott, you cannot just avoid forever. At some point you'll have to see them again."

"I get to make that choice. I get to choose the timing." Scott declared.

"Are you sure?" Solstice asked. His voice didn't sound right.

"I'm… sure." Scott slowly turned around. Solstice was replaced by a figure. Scott couldn't quite place the shape of it- just… something that existed. Gold glowed around the being and outlined the only coherent lines. Antlers. great. Now he was hallucinating.

"I've laid out your path. Your whole being. Your whole life."

Scott opened his mouth to argue, to apologize, to belittle, to beg. But he couldn't. His mouth wouldn't open.

"Our story will never be over." They got closer. Scott inhaled, tears finally streaming down his face after having built up. Here Aeor was, scolding him like a child. So disappointed in him that he had to come face to face. Xornoth never failed Exor. It's how they became so powerful. The urge to scream was in his throat. It was bubbling up and the tears in his eyes made everything hard to see.

The room got darker and darker as Scott choked on his screams. The only thing he could see was a light now. A glowing light that stood still. Scott struggled but moved forward. He walked down the hall he had walked a million times. If felt so unfamiliar to him, but the more he walked, the more breathing became easier and he seemed to actually feel again the further he followed the light. Up the stairs and to the left-

Until his hand hit wood as he knocked. And the lights turned back on, and the cold slowly left his bones.

"Yeah- hold on-" there was a moment of whispered cursing and jostling before the door opened. Tommy looked at Scott and he held a varsity of emotions.

"Whoa. What happened to you?" Tommy blurted. He covered his mouth immediately, horrified by what he just said. That should have made him feel miserable, but Scott let a laugh out. Further startling Tommy, the twelve year old seemed to scramble to figure out what to do.

"Aeor, you wouldn't believe. How are you? Can I come in? I down think I've seen your room since you got all that stuff" Scott sniffled. Tommy hesitated but nodded, motioning for Scott to follow. Tommy's room felt too big for the space Tommy actually took up. Scott wondered if he liked that… Scott picked a tighter space to live in growing up. It was cozy. Having so much space left him feeling hollow.

"Don't ask me how I got those to hang-" Tommy looked at this poster he got. Scott smiled and shrugged.

"I won't." He agreed. Tommy looked at him and smiled a little sideways.

"How was your meeting with Ariadne?" Scott sat down on the end of Tommy's bed. Tommy sat in a chair he pulled away from his desk.

"Boring…"

"Was she boring? Or the material?"

"Oh… well Ariadne was great. Very much a woman" Tommy nodded. Scott laughed, covering his mouth.

"Tommy!" Scott scolded playfully. Tommy hesitated and waited to react until he could be sure Scott wasn't mad… then he smiled all smug like.

"I'm being honest."

"Ah- well you better watch who you say those jokes to. Not everyone would find them funny" Scott smiled, wiping his face. Tommy hummed and wiped his palms on his knees.

"So…. what happened?"

Scott rolled his eyes, smiling and sniffling. "I told you, you won't believe it."

"Please? I made something and "-uhh-" Tommy thought for a moment. "Oh! I won't give it to you until you tell me what happened." Tommy crossed his arms. Scott scoffed and sighed, ruffling his wings.

"Wow, taking lessons on gatekeeping and blackmail?" He mused. "Okay, okay. Jimmy and I are fighting" Scott watched Tommy's eyes get wide. Tommy didn't need to know about the whole meeting.

"No way. Why? What did he say?"

"I love that you assume it was him that's in the wrong."

"Well you could never be wrong?" Tommy suggested. Scott giggled. "See!" Tommy pointed. He looked so excited to have gotten the reaction out of Scott. What did he say?"

"Well, I was really upset over this thing that's happening." Scott looked down at his hands, messing with his rings. He avoided touching his wedding bands. "And he told me I was overreacting." Scott looked back at Tommy. Tommy's eyes snapped wide open and he laughed before covering his mouth.

"No he didn't!" He sat back down after jumping up.

"I know right?" Scott's laugh was wet and he could only wipe his face again.

"See. You should make sure you tell the cod counsel. Ariadne told me about CodBoy." He leaned forward, whispering. Scott laughed, covering his mouth again as he watched Tommy.

"Right. Now you promised me something?" Scott leaned forward, smiling at Tommy. Tommy jumped up.

"Okay- okay, listen up" Tommy grabbed a disk off his frame on the wall. Scott smiled and watched as the disk was loaded into the jukebox and turned up so he could hear it. And the funniest thing happened.

Tommy started bouncing with the beat, quietly counting until he started speaking? Rapping?

"Here's the deal-" Tommy bobbed his head, holding a fake microphone. "There's this dude named Scott, he's really a lot, a total big deal, His husband Jimmy got a real good steal" Tommy grinned at Scott while he smiled, placing his hands in his lap as he watched the performance. "He's a king, and when he pings all his crew, they all already knew, Scott knows what's up, he grows his power, even after sitting in his tower!" Tommy moved around a little much for Scott, and his head definitely hurt. But seeing Tommy just goofing around made his chest feel warmer.

"Jimmy's a fish, not the kind you'd want, in a dish, He's a bit of a goof, real aloof, But he's got a good heart, should he apologize? Revolutionize-! saying sorry to your husband- doesn't need a party! He's got the speed, ready to go, y'all he better plead! Probably on his knees- but don't be gross, or you'll get the bees" Tommy had begun to run out of rhymes and his rhythm was a little funny now. But he never stuttered, and he kept confident. And he lasted until the track slowed down before restarting. Tommy hurried to shut it off before looking at Scott with a huge grin. Scott smiled back before slowly clapping, sniffling and laughing again.

"Oh wow. Wow, I think that may just be the best rap I've ever heard" Scott applauded the kid. Tommy's face flushed and he waved Scott off.

"Oh- that wasn't even my best work. I have many talents" Tommy pulled the disk from the box and put it back away.

"Yeah? What are all your talents?"

Tommy narrowed his eyes at Scott. "I don't know… I think I should keep them a secret if I ever have to whip 'em out." Tommy crossed his arms. Scott leaned back on his hands and smiled at Tommy.

"Really? Why would you have to whip them out?" Scott teased. Tommy rolled his eyes.

"Scott, you're so stupid! I can't tell you or else you'll be on guard!"

"Ah- True. sorry, sorry. I'll just keep assuming." Scott grinned. Tommy looked back at the window, then to Scott.

"You have a church, right?" Tommy asked. Scott stared at the window.

"mhm" was all Scott could muster. This was Tommy's fourth week here. Scott felt like they already rushed so much, overloading Tommy. But he kept asking to see things- to be involved. Scott looked back to Tommy. He ignored the golden glint he saw in the kids eyes.

"Can I see it?" Tommy asked. He was blunt as ever. That Scared Scott more. He also figured the Church was the last place he would want to be after his hallucination.

"Not today." Scott looked down at his hands. Tommy made an unhappy noise.

"Do you worship any of the Gods?" Scott asked. Tommy paced around the room.

"Yeah." He looked at Scott. Scott watched him move to the other side of the bed and flop down next to Scott.

"My parents went to The Watcher ceremonies." He stared up at the ceiling. Scott just watched him. He didn't encourage him to continue, nor did he press on. He just let there be silence while Tommy thought. "After they died, It was kinda shitty- sorry- It was crappy" He corrected. Scott smiled.

"Like- I don't remember a lot. But the orphanage didn't let me go to church anymore? I would have had to be accompanied, and no one wanted to visit after the sickness." He closed his eyes, almost like he was trying to remember. He would have been so young.

"The Watson's followed Mother Death, and the oldest kid talked a lot about the Blood God. There were just too many gods. I hated it." Tommy was careful as he turned to lay on his side. Scott's hand found his hair and Tommy shuddered but didn't push him away.

"I missed The church though." He admitted. "Like- the feeling that someone would keep me safe if I did all the right things- If I just talked to them and asked. My parents always told me that I didn't have to be perfect. The Watchers hated Perfect." Tommy slowed his breathing down to the point Scott was a bit fearful he wasn't breathing.

"But then I'd have to explain that to the Watson's."

"What about your other family?" Scott asked. Tommy meant to press his face into the bed, but Scott's thigh was in the way.

"they're.. Well the two brothers worshiped singular deities, but still Watchers." Tommy laid back on his back. Scott scratched his scalp still and Tommy seemed to be okay with it (if not enjoying himself). "Which is kind of how I got into Prime. Prime has it's own church, did you know? It's big enough because it's like some sort of subgroup of the watchers- but it's not really a group, but it kind of is…" Tommy opened his eyes to look at Scott. Scott tilted his head and nodded.

"Puffy travels out to go to the Church of Prime on holidays." Scott smiled. He saw something glimmer in Tommy's eyes.

"Do you want a place to pray?" Scott asked. Tommy blinked.

"You'd build a whole church for me?" Tommy smiled. Scott laughed, pushing Tommy's hair over his eyes.

"No." Scott watched dramatic disappointment flood the kid. "But I can set up an area for you that's for worship. It would be yours- or whoever you allow to use it. Just for Prime."

"Your God won't get mad?" Tommy leaned up. Aeor did not in fact like sharing, as has been stated so many times to Scott.

"No. That's for me to deal with."

"What if you get sick- or hurt-"

"Aeor doesn't punish for being kind to others." Scott reassured himself more than Tommy.

"Jimmy doesn't have a church, but he has his cod sanctuary. And I have my own little corner in the Cod Empire." Scott brushed Tommy's hair back out of his face. "So if you want something…Just let us know." Scott stared down at Tommy. Tommy's eyes were closed again and he let his response be silence.

It was weird to look at Tommy. Not in any bad way. But in a way that felt like Scott was looking in some sort of veil of himself and Jimmy. He supposed he was supposed to see it. But Tommy was adopted. He came from a family that was so far off their own family trees. Yet the way he joked and never seemed to understand the tone people carried, or the blondness of his hair; Scott could see Jimmy so clearly. It was weird how he saw himself too. A kid trapped in a place. He didn't know where to stand or what to say. Scott saw the way he silenced himself if one look was given to him. He made himself as small as possible in a castle that leaves everything in the open.

Scott was going to do better though. He promised.

"I don't know what's so hard for you to understand, Scott. Look at Xornoth- Have they ever once begged so hard to go and do something so common?"

"That's not fair. Xornoth has friends, they have a god that's so easily pleased, they have all your attention!"

"Scott Major! We do not speak ill of Gods in this house. And we especially do not belittle your family"

"I wasn't belittling! I was stating a fact!"

"Why can't you just be what I'm asking you to be? I just need you to sit here, smile, be polite. Don't talk, don't be mean, don't go on about your games and songs. Scott, please. I just need you to sit, and be my perfect child."

"I'm sorry"

"I know you are, honey. You just need some reminders. And I will always be here to remind you."

"Well there's a reason you were born as a girl, wasn't there?, I really do not care about the gender Scott. What I do care about is how…how he is."

"How he is?"

"Scott, We don't like the Ocean Empire. They've not worked hard for what they have! They were given it to them by some random happening. Gods don't just pull out of nowhere. Look at us-"

"But he's good to me, and the Ocean empire is becoming so big! It could be a benefit- and I don't see Xornoth going out and getting laid."

"Because they are focusing on what's actually important. They are trying to become a good ruler. And what are you doing? Sleeping with fish? How's that going to help you? Help a kingdom? Help your kingdom?"

"What does it matter if Xornoth will be crowned anyways?"

"Scott."

"I just want something that's mine for once! Is that too much to ask for? For some sort of liberation?"

"It will not be him. Do you understand me? The people you surround yourself with show your people who you are."

"He will be perfect"

Scott didn't realize he had fallen asleep until there was a hand on his shoulder. Scott had stopped startling awake a while ago. There was no rush, he never felt in danger or any sense of surprise. Or maybe he knew the hand that woke him. Jimmy's expression was so soft, and he looked so apologetic to Scott. Scott tried to sit up to hug Jimmy, but only managed in pulling Jimmy down into some sort of weird angled hold. Tommy was still next to him and asleep. Jimmy was being careful to only wake Scott.

"Hey" Jimmy whispered. Scott found his eyes and swallowed.

"Hi" He whispered back.

"I'm sorry" Jimmy pressed his face into Scott's cheek. Scott closed his eyes.

"And what are you sorry for?"

"For being such an ass" Jimmy grumbled. Scott smiled and combed his hair with his fingers.

"And what made you an ass?" Scott was going to drag this out.

"For not supporting you when you needed it. You're right. I would be just as mad if Xornoth was there. I just didn't want you to be freaking out-"

"Stop talking now, you're going to ruin it." Scott buried his face in Jimmy's hair.

"Right." Jimmy sighed.

"Right-"

"Shh" Scott shushed Jimmy and carefully tugged his hair so he'd look at him. Scott kissed Jimmy briefly and Jimmy just smiled back.

"I was actually coming over to find you" Jimmy whispered. Scott stayed quiet as Tommy shifted next to him. "Ariadne wants to hold a meeting. Aviel has a clear-"

"Jimmy" Scott whined quietly.

"What?!"

"I'm going back to sleep" Scott turned his head to face Tommy, closing his eyes. Jimmy sighed. Scott stayed quiet, his breathing became steady. Jimmy didn't leave though. He shifted around the room before sitting on the floor where Scott could still reach him. Scott forced his smile down as his hand found Jimmy's hair.

Scott had gotten in the habit of walking nearly shoulder to shoulder with Tommy. That way he'd always be close enough for Scott to shield with his wing if needed. Not that Tommy couldn't protect himself. It was something that just sort of came naturally.

"Do I get a say in what I learn?" Tommy was dragging his feat more as Jimmy lead them down the hallway.

"You can give suggestions. I'm sure they'd be flexible. What do you want to learn?" Jimmy asked, looking behind him. Tommy shrugged as if he could see him.

"Things that matter."

"I think any school would teach you things that matter" Scott mused. Tommy deadpanned at him and walked faster so he was next to Jimmy. Scott just smiled.

Ariadne was standing talking to Aviel when they stepped into the office. They both stopped at the same time and smiled at the family.

"Hello! I don't believe I've gotten to talk to you a whole lot, Emperor Scott." She lowered her head. Scott smiled at her and moved to stand behind Tommy. her eyes found the kid and she looked back to Aviel. Aviel hummed and smiled at Tommy.

"We were hoping Tommy could attend to other things while we talked." Aviel looked at him. Scott squeezed Tommy's shoulder.

"How come?"

"Just so we can have your input as parents." The way Aviel looked at scott meant there was more to it. "With all respect for Tommy, I think this is a more adult matter" they looked at Jimmy next. Jimmy frowned and looked back to Scott. It was an awkward moment as Scott looked to Jimmy, no one saying anything.

"Yeah. Okay, how about you go make sure friend is doing okay? Do you remember how to get there?" Scott turned Tommy to face him. Tommy scowled for a moment before fixing himself up.

"Yeah. I remember. Have fun." Tommy glared back at Aviel. "Or whatever" he mumbled and left the office. Jimmy moved to close the door behind them.

"Still spending a lot of time with Jimmy, hm?" Aviel commented. Scott stared and Ariadne coughed before motioning for Scott and Jimmy to sit.

"Thank you guys… and thank you for trusting me- talking to aviel, I've realized how much work this is and I'm very honored you'd trust me" she bowed her head. Jimmy perked up, taking Scott's hand.

"Of course! You were my first choice- I would have actually begged you if I needed to" Jimmy announced. Scott looked at him and smiled a little sideways. Jimmy just grinned back.

"Uhm- okay! So after talking to Tommy and looking at what Aviel gathered, Tommy is a very intelligent kid." Ariadne looked over her notes.

"He's got a lot of common sense and is able to hold conversations really well. Very sociable! Which is good." Aviel was nodding along as she spoke, agreeing with what she was saying. "he's definitely lacking in geography and political studies. He hardly knows the surrounding kingdoms and their rulers, nor the history of a lot of it."

That was the least favorite part of Scott's learning. He hated having to list the rulers, remember when people died and who took over. He hated staring at maps until he saw them in his sleep. He didn't blame Tommy. It did make him curious as to what he had learned in his previous schools.

"He's also doesn't have great manners…" Ariadne smiled sheepishly.

"Not for a Royal standard anyways. His language and attitude is very common focused." Aviel spoke up.

"He did come from a common family." Scott reminded. Aviel looked at him and sighed.

"He can mask for an extended amount, but he slips up a lot and starts getting antsy easily." Aviel looked at their own notes.

Scott looked at Jimmy who shrugged. "Sounds like a normal kid to me. It's boring having to sit through all of this." Jimmy ignored the scowl Aviel sent his way. "But is that what you want to focus on? Just some proper etiquette training?"

Ariadne nodded. "To start, yes. As we feel he is progressing and able to focus on these subjects less, we can revisit what he's to learn next." She looked at Aviel for approval. Aviel nodded at her.

"Great! Anything else? This seems like something Tommy could have been here for." Jimmy looked at Scott. Scott looked back to aviel. It seemed odd that this would be all they'd want to bring up. That they'd want to hide this from Tommy despite Tommy being the subject.

"Two things" Aviel held their fingers up. "Firstly. We would really like you two to consider if he is a proper heir for either kingdom. If so, we need to adjust his schooling as he gets older to prepare." Aviel looked at them.

"Can we come back to that? When he's older?" Scott asked. He didn't want to think about Tommy being an heir. Not now, not for a while. Jimmy nodded along. Aviel and Ariadne shared a look that made Scott's stomach sink. They'd keep asking about it. It would be something always in the back of their minds.

"Sure. Once you've officially adopted him, we will have this discussion again." Aviel cleared their throat.

"We wanted to run things by you first that way we could come to an agreement." Aviel responded calmly. "But we did have another point we wanted to make."

Scott looked at Jimmy a little annoyed that they weren't being let go. Scott half wondered if Tommy was waiting outside the door trying to eavesdrop. Jimmy just smiled at him. "and what would that be?" Scott asked.

"The Wedding reception in three months." Aviel looked between them. Scott tilted his head.

"What about it? Tommy's coming with us. Jimmy already spoke to his team about it. We've already talked about it. Remember?" Scott didn't want anyone else butting in about this. A trip that they'd take as a family to another country. Where Tommy would officially be seen by others as their son.

A trip he had already had a fight with this advisors about.

"Calm down, Scott" Aviel warned. "We both agree he is going with you. But we suggest you make an announcement or send letters of warning. It would be informal to bring Tommy without warning. You'd be taking the spotlight from your friends." Aviel squinted at Scott and Scott's cheeks warmed as he looked down in his lap. Jimmy took his hand and nodded.

Again with the being scolded. Scott wasn't a kid. He didn't need aviel to talk down to him like this. He was their emperor.

"That makes sense…. Do we need to tell everyone? Like everyone everyone?" Jimmy looked a little worried. Ariadne smiled so gently to reassure him.

"Preferably Grian, Scar and any major party members."

"How soon? It's just barely been a month." Scott pointed out. Aviel looked at Scott and Scott didn't have the mind to decode the look.

"I understand, but you really should explain yourselves before too much longer. Especially if you've been insisting that this will go through." They tilted their head up slightly. Scott glared.

And now the judgment. Subtle in the conversation and seem poised in how they said it. But sharp and letting their true opinions slip.

"I'm not worried about what they'll think, I'm worried about overwhelming Tommy. We literally just talked about this, Aviel. Remember?" Scott's voice had an edge and Jimmy squeezed hid hand.

"Well you should have considered that sooner. You can't shelter him forever. He still has three months until the actual event. Plenty of time to work with him." Aviel smiled. Scott clenched his jaw and squeezed jimmys hand back. He looked at his husband, glancing to his lips than his face.

Don't you think you're overreacting?

"Great. We'll work on letters soon. Is that all? Anything else?" Scott asked, dropping everything. His head was starting to hurt and he felt sick.

Ariadne shook her head looking a little uncomfortable. "Not as of now. While I'm here, I'll start Tommy's education and Aviel will take over once I've left. I'll resume whenever Tommy visits the cod empire." She shifted and smiled a little. "And of course sharing notes along the way. Aviel and I will always be in communication!!" She nodded, looking back at Aviel who confirmed.

Scott kept his posture perfect. He wanted to slouch and tune this out, but they were almost done. He was just tired of his own team judging him, holding onto the same expectations his mother used as a cage.

He waited until early morning to sneak out of Jimmys humid hold. The cold hit his bones for a second before he pulled his robes on, pushing his feet into his boots. His heart was racing as he grabbed the door handle. It wasn't like he was doing anything bad, but he didn't want Jimmy to be worried about him, and he didn't want Tommy asking questions.

"Scott?" Jimmy mumbled, feeling around the bed. Scoff held his breath and tried to think. "I've got to use the bathroom, love. I'll be right back okay? Keep the bed warm for me" Scott shuffled over, kissing Jimmys head. Jimmy snored in response.

The castle in the morning was a special sort of cold. It chilled your bones and the sun shining through the windows seemed to make it colder in a way. You could see the frost from the morning lining the windows on the first floor; and if you held your breath before exhaling you could see it. Most staff were still asleep or just attending to their jobs. Morning cleaners swept and wiped dust off of shelves. Got places that were normally crowded or popular. It was quiet enough you could hear birds chirping outside and smell the frosted grass.

The town was quiet too. The church wasn't too far from the castle, having its own path. But you walked alongside the road leaning into Chromia. You could hear parents who were up early enjoying their morning, or people taking their dogs on early works. Any fresh snow made the sun shine brighter as he walked down the path and up to the doors of the church.

The church was almost always quiet. But the morning made it feel pin-drop silent. No public were praying; no priests out to ask questions, no acolytes to watch your footsteps. They were getting ready for their day, waking up and organizing their things. Only a few seemed to be up earlier, reading near the back.

They didn't even look up at Scott.

Scott's heart seemed to race as he walked down the isle. The stained glass made his vision weird and narrowed in on the alter at the front. The golden basin, the antlers behind it, an engraving of their prayer.

Scott kneeled, staring at the golden powder. He wasn't going to, but his pointer and middle finger dipped into it and smeared the gold down his lips. And his vocal cords stopped. He could hear himself breathe. He let his eyes close.

Please Guide my head. Please Hold my heart. Allow me to Breathe, Allow me to Listen, Allow me to Watch

The words rattled in his brain as he thought them. His lips twitched and he held his hands in his lap, his head now bowed.

What do I do? Who can I ask for help? Why do I see you in him? Why won't you leave him alone? Do you hear me still? Do you love me still?

Scott opened his eyes, staring back at the antlers. Once they connected him to Aeor. He hadn't touched them in a while. Not since Xornoths banishment. Imagining them on his head felt wrong now.

What am I doing wrong? What do you want him for? Why am I not good enough?

The longer he stared at the antlers the more weird they looked. The elegant and well foraged branches seemed like they were warping. The gold looked like it was fading into a brass.

He blinked and it fixed it.

What is yours. Is mine.

his eyes closed again and he gripped his hands harder. He could hear a match being lit.

With so much life. So much energy. So much curiosity. Another one to prove to me that the cycle continues.

Scott wanted to say that Tommy was already "claimed". He had his own god. He was only interested in Aeor because Aeor was apart of Scott. And he very much wanted to believe Tommy was interested in what was apart of Scott.

He's curious enough to be shown what I can do. How I can help. How I can guide his head. His heart. His breathing, his listening, his watching.

Scott didn't want the gold to ever reach Tommy's lips.

Share your security. Save your family. Grow your faith.

Tears ran down Scott's face. And they dripped gold when they landed on his robes.

There was still gold smeared into the sabric of his robes by the end of the day while they were eating. Jimmy didn't say anything about it, and Tommy while looking, didn't ask. He was way more focused on getting Jimmy to chase him around the castle to prove who knew it better.

Tommy ended up winnning. And not because Scott had shown him shortcuts while Jimmy was away. Jimmy had to wear a hat of shame that Tommy found buried in some chest in his closet. He said it didn't have a label on it, but Scott doubted it.

Him and xornoth used to love putting on plays and dressing up. They had their own costume chest that Scott had long forgotten about until he saw the silly hat placed on his husbands head.

"You look really sexy right now" Scott smiled at Jimmy teasing. Jimmy glared.

"Now don't you start. I know you helped him."

"was I not supposed to?" Scott grinned at Tommy. Tommy just shoved food in his mouth to not laigh.

"Were you- no! No!! I was supposed to be able to win! Do you know how long I've been here?!"

"Obviously not long enough" Scott smirked. Jimmy gasped.

"Now this is just rude!" He scoffed.

"Get good, Big Man" Tommy shifted, letting his expression and tone get cocky.

"Or maybe old man. I think old man is totally better."

"I am not old!!" Jimmy gasped. "How dare you?! My own spawn, my own son, my own blood and all." Jimmy frowned heavily.

Tommy rolled his eyes. "You saying that makes you sound old too." He pointed at Jimmy with his fork. Scott raised his eyebrows at the kid to remind him to not do that. Tommy's face flushed and he dropped the utensil.

"Tommy" Scott shifted, pushing his food around.

"Scott" Tommy watched him.

"We're going to tell our friends about you." Scott looked at Jimmy and then Tommy.

"Is this what all of these meetings have been about?"

"A few of them" Jimmy nodded. "We're all going to go back to the Avianary in three months for our friends wedding ceremony. I'm in the party" Jimmy smiled. Tommy looked between them.

"…okay… and? Is that all?"

"They might want to meet you before. But if you don't want to, you don't have to." Scott knew he'd have to eventually. Tommy leaned back in his seat, picking his fork back up and moving food around.

"Alright. Are there…" Tommy started. He shook his head. "Never mind."

"You can ask" Jimmy encouraged. Tommy shook his head again. "Nah. It's silly. Who's getting married in the Avianary?" He looked at them.

"Grian of the Moon Family and Prince Scar." Scott worked on eating again after answering. Tommy blinked and looked at Jimmy and Scott.

"You're friends with Grian?!"

"Of course. He's one of my best mates!" Jimmy Beamed.

"We're very close with a lot of surrounding rulers." Scott smiled at his kid.

"You'll probably get used to seeing a lot of them around. Those lessons with Aviel and Ariadne will come in handy."

"…will there be kids my age?" Tommy asked. Scott paused and thought about it. He didn't know. None of their friends had kids, and if they were planning, they certainly wouldn't match Tommy's age.

"I'm… sure there will be kids alike." Jimmy spoke up. "But there's a recession of kids right now. Most of us are just getting married or settling in." Jimmy shifted, shoving food into his mouth so Scott had to pick up the conversation.

"King Cleo from Hermittopia has a shadow. I'm sure they'll be in attendance. I think they're around your age." Scott thought about it. Cleo had written some time ago about having a shadow who was studying under gem, but now themselves. He didn't know much else though.

"And I think there are some new trainee's for castle staff, probably a little older than you." Scott tried to think of any other kids who may be there. There just weren't a lot that he knew about.

"I'm sure friends of friends." Jimmy nodded.

"And if there's not?" Tommy put his cheek in his hand with his elbow on the table. Scott bit back his request for Tommy to sit straighter.

"Then you can stick right Next to us." Jimmy beamed. Tommy deadpanned.

"Do you know how lame it is to sit Next to your par- guardians" neither of them mentioned the near slip of parents. "While there's probably a whole bunch of things to get into?" Tommy scoffed. Scott and Jimmy glanced at each other and smiled.

"Yeah. We do, Tommy." He nodded. "We've been there before too. Trust us." Scott smiled at Tommy. He couldn't help but see his reflection though. A kid about to go to an event he definitely didn't want to go to. Unsure about who would be there. Unsure if making friends was an option.

At least this time he could reach out to that mirror, holding Tommy rather than witnessing him be torn apart.

Chapter Text

"Have you ever played before?" Tubbo raised an eyebrow at the unopened deck of cards Tommy had in his hand.

"Nope." Tommy inspected the packaging. It was from whatever trading game Scott had had him pick up a couple of weeks ago. He never got around to opening the package until now when Tubbo sat with his own, having promised he'd show Tommy what the hype is about.

"At school we trade them like crazy. Some people have super old cards and they're stupidly powerful." Tubbo looked at the cards in his hand.

"Really?"

"Yeah! Trading card games. You've never done them before?" Tubbo frowned at Tommy and the blond avoided the look.

"Nah. Was never super into them. Only reason I got these was cause Scott said I should" Tommy was careful as he ripped the top of the packaging off.

"It's weird to hear you just call him Scott." Tubbo snorted, waiting in anticipation. Tommy ignored it and held up the first card.

"Count Fwhip" Tubbo nodded in approval. "He's good to have on hand. He's got a lot of bonuses when you play him with others."

"Isn't it a bit weird to have a card game based on rulers?" Tommy looked at the card. He didn't recognize the person in the picture. He did recognize the style of wings the "count" had on his back though. They looked like Jimmy's.

"I dunno. It makes school fun though. We almost got the cards banned cause people kept getting in arguments over them" Tubbo beamed.

"I think that's why my old foster brother kept getting into trouble. He'd start this empire of games and like… scam people out of their money. Not me though! I saw right through his scheme" Tommy didn't touch many trading games when he saw how seriously some people got into them. It sort of seemed like a waste of time and too many unwritten rules to follow.

Tommy moved onto the next card, holding it up. Tubbo shrugged. "Just cod. That's like… Only helpful if you have Emperor Scott or Codfather Jimmy." Tubbo explained.

"Do you think I'll get my own card one day?" Tommy inspected the card. There was the banner of the Cod Empire over the cod with a few weird looking fish people in front.

"Are you gonna be a king?"

"Maybe"

Tubbo looked at him a little sideways and smiled. "Then maybe. You'll have to remember where you came from though" Tubbo shuffled his own deck. "Then you can add me as an ally on your card and we could totally become unstoppable" Tubbo beamed. Tommy snorted and nodded along.

"Yeah, course Big man. Never forget where I came from" He teased. Tubbo just smiled back at him.

"Okay! Okay, Who's next?"

Tommy turned the next card over and frowned at it. It was a golden card with a white animal in the middle. The animal had a gold outline and gold features. Most predominantly was the eyes and antler looking things coming out of its head. He turned it around to show to Tubbo.

"What?!" Tubbo gasped, moving into Tommy's personal space to look at the card. Tubbo didn't take it from him, but he sure got close.

"No way- That's like super rare!" He stared wide eyed. Tommy turned the card back over to look at it.

"Aeor?" Tommy moved the card in the light, the gold reflecting it.

"Yeah! No way- That's a deity card- those are super super rare-" Tubbo shuffled so he was sitting right next to Tommy. "I only know one other person who has a deity card and they were hunting for it for a long time" Tubbo looked at Tommy. Tommy had to lean back slightly so he could properly look at the other.

"Who's Aeor?" Tommy frowned. Tubbo blinked before backing up.

"Did you just ask who Aeor is?"

"What I said, innit?" Tommy rolled his eyes. Tubbo blinked.

"So you really aren't from here"

"Duh- I told you that." Tommy looked back at his cards. He had two more to look at. He didn't wait for Tubbo to move on.

"Aeor is literally the God of Rivendale." Tubbo watched. Tommy raised an eyebrow at the kid.

"Really?"

"Really! I'm not lying to you! My friend Aimsey goes to the church of Aeor! most people here do. Including Emperor Scott." Tubbo nodded to the moved-on-from card in his hands. Tommy's eyebrows raised.

"And this is what the guy looks like?"

"Not really. He's a stag though. Gold and white and blue. Where do you think your robe colors came from?" Tubbo smiled. Tommy's face flushed.

"I'm not really into all this god stuff. I'm the only god I need." (It was a lie. He did miss Prime sometimes. It just felt selfish to make Scott make room for him). Tommy puffed his chest out. The gold lighting on the card caught his eye though, and for a second it felt like the stag on it was looking directly at him. He shivered.

"Oh! That's Mayor Shubble- the undergrove, I've been there with Puffy before. It's really nice there. Everything is so much smaller cause they're all gnomes—" Tubbo rambled on.

His lessons with Aviel were boring and he was having a hard time actually sitting through them. It had only been a week or so since it was official and two days since Ariadne had left them. Tommy had already decided he preferred Ariadne. She was so much more patient and gave him time and space to move around. Aviel and him had to take a break an hour into his lesson. And of course Scott and Jimmy were in a meeting. Gods he would make it a rule to not have so many meetings whenever- if ever-he inherited the crown(s). It didn't give him a lot to do, and he wanted to avoid Aviel until he was hunted down to continue his lessons.

Tommy was very proud of his eavesdropping skills. Many years of pressing himself to doors or walls, holding his breathe while he listened to adults talk about him. The things they said when they didn't think Tommy was listening was always interesting (if not sad). He knew how to time his breathing with the words being spoken, how to avoid his shadow from under the door, and how to pick up on even the quietest whisperers. Tommy may as well be the greatest spy there ever was. Forget being a king!

"They're not attending. Joey will be, but it's safe to say Xornoth will remain at the Lost Empire." Solstice always had this tone to him that made him seem so much calmer than he had to have been. There was high doubt that anyone as pristine and polished as Solstice could ever be calm.

"Great. And the letters we sent?" Jimmy asked. Tommy put his chin on his knees as he sat against the wall.

"No response yet. I imagine Queen Lizzie will want to show soon though. Do you have plans to take him over soon?"

"His wings are still growing back in. I want to, but they're growing really slowly and I fear—"

"They're growing at a normal rate" Solstice cut Scott off. It wasn't harsh or rude. It was just a reminder. Tommy squeezed his eyes closed and tried to ignore the tingling in his spine.

"We may want to look at alternative traveling options then. I know it's inconvenient, but he does have two homes." Tommy decidedly did not like the idea of Solstice looking out for him.

He was so focused on trying to listen to the way Scott narrowed down traveling plans. Scott had a way of speaking out loud as he planned and he just let people adjust, or even adjust himself along the way. It became a little tiring to listen to and it was hard to keep up with what was actually going to happen and what were just ideas being thrown out. Tommy didn't even recognize the shadow in front of him until there was a cough.

His eyes shot open and he went to hit the person right away. They got lucky, backing up and holding their hands in the air. "Woah there- didn't think you'd fight so hard" The other laughed. Tommy squinted at him. He was young, had very little hair on top of his head and wore these stupid looking duel colored glasses on his nose. They had to be the most impractical thing ever.

"Who the hell are you supposed to be?" Tommy blurted. The other stepped back and looked shocked before glaring.

"I could ask you the same thing!" He accused right back. Tommy blinked.

"Who are you in- robes… and… Are you a long lost family or something? Did Scott just pick you up off the road?" The guy crossed his arms. Tommy's face flushed and he scrambled to stand up, puffing his chest out. His feathers fluffed and the other backed up a little but still didn't release the amused look he was giving.

"I am.." Tommy didn't know how to introduce himself. "Prince Tommy Major." He crossed his own arms and nodded his head. The other laughed.

"Prince?"

"Yeah! Where have you been the last few weeks?! Head under a bridge? Is that where you live?" Tommy mocked.

"No! I was on vacation with my girlfriend"

"You don't have a girlfriend" Tommy looked him up and down. Despite having no/little hair on his head, he did actually look rather young. Older than Tommy for sure.

"I do! I was just on vacation with her!" He argued.

"Oh yeah? does she live in a different kingdom too?"

"No! She lives in Snowchester! Where I also live!" The other was waving his hands around now. Tommy grinned and raised his eyebrows, now interrogating this man.

"What's her name?"

"Ellie! Eleanor!"

"What kind of name is that?"

"Her name? Who are you?"

"I told you! I'm Prince Tommy Major" Tommy grabbed the side of his robe and swiped it across his front for a dramatic flair. He did it as the door opened, Tommy turning around right away to see a distressed Scott.

"Tommy? Where's Aviel? What-" Scott looked between the two. Jimmy poked his head out from behind Scott and smiled at Tommy.

"Who is this guy?" Tommy asked, dropping his shoulders and pointing at the other.

"Who- Oh- Oh-" Scott pinched his nose before inhaling and exhaling. "This is Jack Manifold. He's our runner."

"Errand boy…" Tommy looked back at Jack. Jack's face flushed and he glared at Tommy harder.

"I am— Scott! Who is he? Why is there a child running around?" Jack asked Scott. He sounded very distressed and Tommy tilted his head a little. Scott looked between them before brushing hair out of his face.

"Right- Sorry, I thought you would-" Scott spun around to look at Solstice and Jimmy before spinning back around to look at the two. "This is Tommy. Jimmy and I adopted him right after you went on your vacation. Welcome back by the way" Scott leveled his voice out and smiled at Jack who seemed a little disturbed.

"This is your kid?"

"Yes." Scott shot a look to Jack. Tommy mimicked the look and Jack's eye twitched.

"I can see the alikeness"

"Gotten that a lot" Scott whispered, looking up before looking back at Jack. "Did you have something to drop off?"

"Yeah- You got some stuff from Mythland and House Blossom sent some news over-" Jack reached into his bag as if he remembered he had a job. He pulled a thick envelope out and handed it over to Scott who studied it. Tommy had moved back so he was slightly under Scott's wing to his side.

"Oh- I've been waiting for this. Okay" Scott's wings ruffled above Tommy.

"Thank you, Jack." Scott turned to look for Tommy before realizing he was about to engulf the kid with his wing.

"And… Why aren't you-"

"We came to a mutual decision that we needed a break" Tommy crossed his arms and looked down the hall. He could see the fish tank glowing from here. He wondered who fed the pufferfish when Scott wasn't here. Did Scott even feed it? He sort of wondered if he could get Scott and Jimmy to allow him to feed the little guy. Pufferfish were always drawn as these goofy things that looked cartoonish in every way. Pufferish looked so at peace in their little tank though. Tommy never stuck his hand in the tank- duh- but he figured Pufferish wouldn't even care if he did.

"—Tommy" Scott's voice was next to him. Scott held a slightly worried look and his hand was hovering over his arm. Tommy blinked and looked at him.

"Do you want to sit in with us? We're almost done, then maybe we can go see the cod." Scott suggested. Tommy shifted. It felt like the world around him was shifting with him, and suddenly he didn't feel so confident with Jack still watching.

"Uh- Yeah. I'll sit in. Whate'er you talking about?" Tommy turned to Scott, trying to play whatever this was off.

Jack was everywhere. Tommy went to dump some papers he was handed off onto Solstice's desk and there he was. With all his baldness and his stumbling as he sorted and shifted through paper.

"Errand boy?" Tommy slowed down and waited in the doorway. Solstice's office was always so decorated and put together. Nothing seemed organized in an old fashioned way; but it was organized in a "I know exactly where this will be in two months" way. Compared to Aviel, Tommy didn't mind being in here. Too bad Solstice wasn't his teacher. He doubted he had the patience to teach Tommy. Sometimes he doubted Solstice had the paticence for Scott and Jimmy.

"It's Jack." He snapped before looking flushed. Tommy raised his eyebrows.

"Jack Manifold" Tommy nodded.

"Yes. Exactly. You don't have to say my surname though."

"But I like it. It makes you sound way cooler" Tommy set the papers on a chair carefully. Jack looked a little upset at the placement.

"Are you really an errand boy though?" Tommy sat in the empty chair. Jack sorted things and set them in piles.

"No." Jack glared. "…yes" He gave in.

"I'm trying to move up to be an advisor of some sort- I don't know. This was kind of the best I-"

"Woah woah there Big Man." Tommy waved him down, leaning back in the chair. He crossed his hands over his stomach and watched Jack work. "I don't need the whole story. I'm just checking! So.. Jack Manifold who supposedly has a girlfriend-"

"I do! She is very real, and we just went on a trip together!" Jack stressed. Tommy nodded along.

"Right. Right- And you live in Chromia-"

"Snowchester"

"Same thing"

"Not really- how much do you even know about this place?" Jack glared. Tommy hummed and squinted.

"Probably not a lot." He admitted. "But that doesn't matter!"

"If you're a prince I'd think it matters a lot"

"That's what Aviel seems to think." Tommy slouched down more. It was bordering uncomfortable but he was stuck here now.

"Aviel is your teacher?"

"Seems so" Tommy puffed air out.

"Oh. Man that's rough" Jack whistled, stacking papers into a neater pile.

"You don't like them either?"

"They're… very old fashioned. They don't like me very much either in my defense" Jack looked around as if the advisor would appear out of thin air.

"Ah- Secrets safe with me. As long as we don't have any issues…" Tommy squinted at Jack. Jack stared back.

"I am not getting blackmailed by a child." He pointed at Tommy.

"I'm not blackmailing you."

"You are. You're sneaky. I can tell. Your… Blue eyes… Shifty-ness" Tommy tilted his head at Jack.

"Mate. I think you're just bonkers"

One month and a few days and Tommy didn't know what to think. It was more luxurious than he had been living in the past. If he wanted strawberry cake, he'd ask, and it would be on the table after dinner. If he wanted a blanket, he was given one that was preheated and fluffed.

Yet it seemed so empty. There was chaos- yes. But there was an emptiness in such a vast building that made it seem like the days stretched longer. He and Aviel had to cut their lessons down to shorter sessions because neither of them could sit still around each other. Tommy would try to sit and listen, but it would get uncomfortable. So he'd shift, or ruffle his wings, he'd play with pens while Aviel droned on about how Scott's very distant relatives founded Rivendale.

But the words sounded fuzzy after too long and his movement was making Aviel just as uncomfortable. Tommy watched as they'd shift in their own seat, holding their hands and smoothing out wrinkles. The way they kept referring back to their notes and having to repeat things for Tommy was wearing down their motivation. And it was uncomfortable for both of them.

Tommy was on another break as Aviel had to meet with someone. Scott was going up and down the isles of the library, studying books as he passed. Jimmy was next to Tommy, laying on the sofa while Tommy leaned on the couch from sitting on the floor. They hadn't really said much to each other. Tommy was squinting at the cards he opened with Tubbo, trying to place them and compare them to the "Origins" that Aviel talked about.

"What's going on, bud?" Jimmy whispered to Tommy. Scott looked back at them and Jimmy just smiled.

"Hm?" Tommy shifted Aeors card, watching the gold shine in the lighting.

"You're getting around the castle more, huh? Sometimes when I don't have anything to do, I end up walking around until I find someone and then I make it their problem. Once I got Solstice to walk me all around the castle while explaining the First Two to me." Jimmy kept his voice in a faux whisper. Obviously Scott could hear them, but he pretended to not.

"Yeah. It's just boring. Like- What did you and Scott even do growing up? Is it going to be like this all the time? Jimmy- Jimmy man, I don't think I can do this-" Tommy was being dramatic. Genuine fear and worry flashed over Jimmy's face.

"Well… I sort of had my sister to play with and follow around." Jimmy stared at Jimmy.

"And Scott had a brother." Tommy nodded along.

"Sibling"

"What's the difference?"

Jimmy gave him a pointed look. Tommy's face flushed and he nodded. "Yeah." He cleared his throat.

"Scott always said that He'd hide in the library and read whatever books he was told not to. He didn't really go into the town as much if I recall… but he was a really good student." Jimmy frowned. Tommy huffed. This was hardly helpful. He hated being bored.

"I will say. It's nice to have downtime, Tommy. The grace period won't last forever. And with the wedding coming up, we'll all be busier. I think you'll have to work on manners-"

"Etiquette sucks. I have great etiquette." Tommy argued. Jimmy ruffled his hair.

"I know you do, Kid. But it's better to purposefully make people laugh than to do it without meaning to"

Tommy thought about that. In some way it was true. If he knew how to cover up mistakes, he could get away with more. He could sneak around and look all casual.

"And maybe.." Jimmy whistled, Scott turning so he was hidden by the bookshelves. He was so lost in his own world, he doubted he was actually paying attention. "You can find a map of the Moon House." He squinted at the isles. Tommy just blinked at him.

Jimmy and Scott were so disconnected from him on what was fun.

"Or! Here- I can show you some of the maps for the Cod Empire! And then when we go there you'll know all the in's and out's! I bet you could beat Scott to any location." Jimmy nudged Tommy. Tommy tried to not smile, but the more Jimmy nudged him the harder it was.

"You want me to pass time by studying maps." Tommy repeated at the blond. Jimmy nodded, His eyes lighting up.

"You could be the sneakiest guy out there- Think about how many conversations you can eavesdrop on? Oh— that's one of Scott's favorite things to do, you know?" Tommy sat up a little more.

"What? Really?"

"Oh yeah. He used to get in trouble all the time for listening in on conversations. He's super good at it too-" Jimmy leaned into Tommy. Tommy smiled and let the other into his personal space.

"I bet I can find out more about when we're leaving for the Cod Empire than you can before we leave." Jimmy looked into Tommy's eyes. Jimmy's eyes were so big, but they were brown and normally dark. The lighting made them look a little softer in color. But it wasn't the color that mattered. It was the way he was looking at Tommy with such enthusiasm and excitement that found it's way into his chest.

"How's that fair? You're in on all the meetings." Tommy's eyebrows furrowed.

"Exactly. There's some thing's I can't attend because I have my own work. So that's where you can catch up." Jimmy laid back down as Scott started walking back over. "Plus?" Jimmy smiled at Scott as he walked up.

"I don't always pay attention" They both watched Scott as he moved to sit on the other side of Tommy on top of Jimmy's feet.

"You'll win either way. Jimmy sucks at being sneaky and holding onto information." His hand found a way into Tommy's hair, fixing it from Jimmy messing with it.

"Are you excited to go to the Cod empire?" Aviel had long set their quill down. They were trying to help Tommy remember who the surrounding Rulers were, but they all seemed so indifferent. It was hard to distinguish where the undergrove started and where Crystal Cliffs was granted space. It didn't make sense to him why Lady Katherine of House Blossom wouldn't just take over the undergrove all together. What difference did Mayor Shubble make?

His head hurt.

"Yeah. Kinda." Tommy scribbled at the corner of his paper. Aviel watched.

"Only kind of?"

"Kinda, not kind of. There's a difference" Tommy looked at Aviel.

"What's the difference?"

"Kinda means… like you're not really sure. But you don't care enough to be sure. Like it hasn't happened yet, so I don't even know what there is to be excited about." Tommy dropped his pencil and leaned back in the chair.

"What does "Kind of" Mean then?" Aviel moved on. Tommy squinted at them. Did they really not know? Was this some sort of test?

"It means you kind of know something. Like you just actively do not know a lot, so you kind of know." Tommy watched Aviel take this in. They didn't wear glasses, but Tommy knew if they did, they'd look a lot older and pull off the "scary strict" teacher look a lot more.

"So you don't care about how you feel about this?"

"Not really." Tommy sat back up. He just wanted to be out of his chair. His pacing made Aviel nauseous.

"I already don't know what to do here, so I can't imagine it will be any better anywhere else." Tommy groaned, scrubbing his face with his sleeves.

"Are you bored here?" Aviel asked, relaxing their shoulders, folding their hands over the desk.

"Yes- Kind of. I mean, on the boring days it's super boring. And Tubbo has to work during the weekends but has school during the day." Tommy wrinkled his nose. "So I've not really got a lot to do. And It feels weird just following Scott and Jimmy around all day." Tommy pulled his knees up to his chest, picking at the linin on his robes. Robes he couldn't have even dreamed of having a month ago. Something that was probably worth more than the Watson's house.

"Tubbo is the boy in Chromia, correct?"

"Mhm" Tommy puffed his cheeks out.

"I don't get how everyone romanticizes this. It's like… Not romantic at all" Tommy looked at Aviel. Aviel smiled and looked down at their hands.

"I think a lot of rulers get by because they have multiples of children. Or several lines of families for children to engage with." Aviel thought about it. "I see how it can be boring"

"You taught Scott didn't you?" Tommy sat up. Scott and Aviel didn't get along. Maybe he could stir a pot somewhere. So close to them leaving too?

"I did"

"What was Scott like at my age?"

Aviel had to have known the question. They stared for a moment before finding words. "A lot like you."

"anything else. Please, for the love of Prime, say anything else." Tommy pleaded. Aviel smiled. A full smile, with teeth and everything as Tommy played his dramatics.

"I'm so sorry, Tommy. It's very true though." Aviel moved to pull some papers out of their desk. Tommy had this fear that it would be more papers to read, so he pressed on.

"Okay- but what does that even mean? What am I? Who am I? Why am I like Scott?" Tommy leaned forward. Aviel was still smiling just a little. Wrinkles formed in the corner of their mouth and they didn't look so scary.

"Okay… Well Scott was very— ah how do I say this…" Aviel clicked their tongue. "Forthcoming about anything and everything. He was quite demanding and got into a lot of arguments with his sibling over silly things. They did not share very easily." Aviel noted. Tommy nodded, not speaking as to not break the train of thought.

"Scott had a hard time growing into himself and used his demeanor to side track you. If he was having a hard day and didn't want to do something, you'd have to go down every logical rabbit hole he could find until he gave up. And Scott very rarely gives up." Aviel glanced to the wall. Tommy followed their eyes. "Not to say though— Scott was very good at being a Prince." Aviel didn't comment too much more there.

"What makes a good prince?" Tommy asked. Aviel looked back at him and had a more tired look to them. It just made them seem so much more human.

"I'd like you to try to visit the Cod Temple with Ariadne while you're in the Empire. Oh hold on, Is it a-" Aviel shuffled through his notes. "Church- sorry, Please have Ariadne take you to the church." Aviel smiled back.

"But I haven't been to the church here." Tommy's eyebrows narrowed.

"With time. You should go wash up now, I'm sure tea will be ready" Aviel Dismissed Tommy. Any sense of humanity in them was washed off like a cloth.

Tommy had his tongue sticking out as he focused on cutting the paper in his hands. Tubbo had been assigned display duty which meant just cutting and collaging things together. Tommy wasn't going to help, but he felt really awkward just watching Tubbo.

"I think they're going to try to hold me while they fly." Tommy squinted as he rounded a corner.

"Really?" Tubbo smiled at him. "I think I'd honestly rather take a boat."

"They have pegasi and they won't use those either!" Tommy whined. "I feel like they're making this a big deal. It's just another kingdom."

"Yeah but traveling is hard when you can't fly" Tubbo glued paper onto a board.

"Have you flown before?"

"Me? No. It looks really scary" Tubbo wrinkled his nose, then looked at Tommy's wings. Tommy stopped cutting to look back at them, expanding them.

"I don't get what all the noise is about. You have wings" Tubbo frowned. "Oh— wait do you not…"

"I know how to fly!" Tommy defended. "I've flown so far before! You'd be amazed— you with your legs and… horns…" Tommy looked Tubbo up and down. Tubbo's eyebrows raised and he leaned back a little from Tommy before grabbing the next item to paste.

"My bad! I just… I didn't know. Why can't you just fly?"

Tommy hesitated, staring back down at the paper he was cutting, his wings slowly folding back up. "Uh— it's… I dunno." Tommy shifted. "Shitty people doing shitty things" Tommy listened to the way Tubbo hummed about it but never pushed further. He wished he would.

"I mean— if you're gonna bug me about it—" Tommy groaned dramatically. Tubbo glared. "I tried to fly away from my foster family. So they clipped my wings which basically makes me unable to fly" Tommy stretched one of his wings out again, grabbing it carefully to show Tubbo the clipped parts. "They're growing back really slowly… And I don't think Scott and Jimmy will clip them again, but I'm also a flight risk so the adoption bitches probably told them to" Tommy watched Tubbos hand ghost over his wings. He hardly felt it, but just watching was enough to make him shiver.

"That's stupid" Tubbo brought his hand back and looked at Tommy. There wasn't a lot of sympathy behind him, but there was enough care in his eyes that made Tommy feel a little jittery. "I don't think cutting someone's wings will do anything to decrease them as a flight risk" Tubbo leaned back on his hands after setting the glue aside. Tommy just shrugged and turned the scissors over in his hands.

Clipping didn't hurt in the moment. But the look and feel of them afterwards was enough to make Tommy loathe the people that did this. The Watson's always tried to comfort him and tell him that it was for the best. The mom smoothed his hair out and rocked him while he cried. She'd explain that it wasn't to hurt him, but rather keep him safe. She made whatever he wanted after and allowed him to wallow in self hatred when he stared in the mirror. The Awedu's did it for the same reasons. He never had his wings grown out while he lived there because it was already habit and there was no point in running the risk again. And again, he was held by his foster dad, comforted and reassured that he had done nothing wrong. That this was for his own good. All while he watched his foster siblings fly back and forth and in circles around him— taunting him and looking at him like he was something under their shoe.

"Hey, do you wanna play a game later?" Tubbo asked.

"What game?"

"Knights and Crooks" Tubbo smiled. Tommy stared back.

"what the hell type of game is that?"

"It's so fun, basically there's two teams, knights and crooks. And all of the shop keepers here know when we play it. So basically we start in opposite sides of the town right? And all the crooks have to get to the other side of the town without getting tagged by the knights" Tubbo smiled.

"That's kinda frightening."

"Not really! You can group up! Once we all stayed in a group and made it over in record time because they thought we scattered. It's super fun." Tubbo smiled.

"Sounds like a group game though."

"It can be. It's better when it's a group."

"Who else is gonna be there?" Tommy shifted. He knew Tubbo had other friends. But Tubbo didn't talk about them that much.

"Aimsey, Guqqie, I think Apo will be there." Tubbo listed. "Sometimes his brother Owen joins us, but then it's like… Owen versus us." Tubbo looked up as puffy entered the room.

"Tommy! What are you doing here?" She looked shocked. Tommy paused, looking to Tubbo. Tubbo said that Tommy was allowed over, but could he have lied? Would Tommy be in trouble for being here.

"Uhm… I was given permission to see Tubbo?" Tommy looked at Tubbo who nodded.

"He's helping me!" The boy moved to the side so his aunt could see the poster.

"He's working without getting paid" puffy rolled her eyes. Tommy blinked and his shoulders fell.

"Huh?"

"I can't have you working for me without payment, Tommy" puffy moved to her counter. tommy stared at her and then Tubbo.

"Oh- no it's okay I wanted to help so he could come play faster." Guilt washed over Tommy, but the way she kept smiling was weird. She moved over and held her fist out to him.

"Go on. You helped, you're working. Only fair you get paid." She nodded to Tommy.

Tubbo stared at him and Tommy's face flushed as he held his hand out, taking the five coins from her. They weren't very heavy. He never actually saw the currency used in rivendale. He looked at them. They were silver with a crown stamped on both sides and the words "The Emperors Crown"

"Thanks…" Tommy looked at her. Puffy smiled. "Thank you for helping. You can go play now, Toby. Thanks for your work" she shooed the kid away from the poster. Tubbo smiled and looked to Tommy, holding his hand out.

"I bet I can get them all now." He suggested. Tommy took his hand and stood up, shrugging.

"Sure."

Everyone who Tubbo listed had shown up, and then one other kid named Acho. Tommy hadn't been in a group of kids in a while, and seeing as they knew each other and he didn't made him really concerned. But the moment he got there everyone was super interested in him. And maybe his ego rose a little.

"Wait where do you live?" Aimsey asked. "That way we know where to grab you whenever we start events!"

Tommy looked to Tubbo and Tubbo stared back. Apparently he hadn't told them that Tommy was their kings kid.

"I live… up the hill." Tommy looked back. There were a few houses near the castle, but they were more buildings for castle staff. The other tween/teenagers looked at the area too before Tommy again.

"Which house?"

"If you guys come and get me, then I can get him." Tubbo announced. Tommy's face flushed. He shouldn't be ashamed, but then he'd have to hope that they weren't using him just for his status and-

"I live in the castle-" Tommy blurted. So long for keeping it a secret. He got weird looks before Aimsey spoke up.

"How can we get ahold of you then? There's no way they'd let us get close to the castle." They crossed their arms.

"Owen's in the guards." Apo pointed out. "I could talk to him easily. Our bird is one of those small and fast ones-" Apo motioned a size with his hands.

Tommy's brows raised and he looked to the castle then Apo. "Really?"

"Yeah! He didn't tell me that there was a new kid!"

"Wait so are Scott and Jimmy your Dads? Did they adopt you?" Guqqie asked. Tubbo frowned at the question and Tommy made a 'so/so' motion.

"They're… adopting me. Yeah. It's in the works I guess."

"Oh! That's really cool, my mom said the elders were kinda being pushy about the Emperor and his husband having kids" Guqqie smiled at Aimsey, and Aimsey blushed and looked to Acho who cleared his throat.

"We need to start before it gets too dark" Tubbo nodded in agreement before speaking next.

"Tommy should pick his opponent and team." Tubbo smiled. Tommy blinked and looked at him. "Since you're new, you're unbiased. You won't know who's got what skills." The kid explained.

"Right. Uhm…" Tommy looked across the group. "I want to be… a crook." He looked at Tubbo who nodded in encouragement.

"And Aimsey—" he pointed at them. "As well as… Tubbo" Tommy looked to his friend and smiled. Tubbo beamed at him and gave him a thumbs up. "Yeah. I think… that's my pick." He looked at the others.

"Cool. You'll get a minute to run and then Guqqie, Apo and Acho will chase us." Tubbo nudged Tommy. "You should follow me too so you know where you're going" he whispered. Tommy nodded along, watching the other three move to some benches.

"we sticking together?" Aimsey asked. Tommy nodded. "Obviously." He said before flushing at how rude he sounded.

Aimsey just beamed. "Good. Try to keep up. I may be shorter but I will beat your ass in a race" they stretched their arms.

"Ready?!" Acho called.

"Go!" Aimsey declared, and instantly Tommy's legs were moving. Tubbo was quite fast as was Aimsey. They were not lying. Tommy worried for a moment about keeping up with them as they weaved between people and whipped around turns like nothing.

Instinct was there though and Tommy was running. He was focused on Tubbo, focused on making sure he wouldn't leave his sight. He was being chased. He was going to get caught again— and the punishment for being caught is never good. People tend to take away the thing that you used to escape.

He moved and turned and ducked like nothing, grinning as he kept going, kept forward with no interruptions; the paths being laid out for him. It was freeing in a way. He was being chased— yes, but when it came down to it, the only punishment for being caught was losing. And losing sucked, but he wasn't going to get his legs taken away.

"I see them!" Guqqies voice cut through the air as Tommy ran.

"Quick!" Apo shouted. Now it was more intoxicating. Adrenaline kicked in at the feeling of someone right behind him hit. He just got better at running though, being bold enough to stray one street over to split. It was still the same direction anyways. The boarder couldn't be too far away now.

Tommy's lungs burned. He nearly crashed right into Acho as Acho appeared out from an alleyway.

"Freeze!" He shouted. Tommy didn't though. He kept running, spinning around Acho.

"Pussy!" Tommy cackled as he ran, turning down the next ally. Acho was still on his heal, but he just kept going. They were behind the others now, but Tommy didn't stop.

"Pretty good but not good enough!" Acho was right behind him. Tubbo and Aimsey were calling from just down the road. He was almost there. He was almost free— he almost won.

he just needed a boost. There were some crates right by the boarder that he could use… it was risky. And it wouldn't do much. But he wanted to be dramatic. He was being chased!

"Get him! Get him!" Guqqie cheered. The cheers from the other kids made Tommy laugh as he jumped to step onto the first crate, then the second. His wings opened and he flapped them, Tubbo and Aimsey cheering as he stayed in the ground for a few seconds before floating to the ground.

"Ha!" Tommy turned around, laughing at Acho.

"You guys could have grabbed him!" Acho slowed down, coughing and putting his arms up over his head.

"Yeah but it was more fun to watch." Apo shrugged, grinning at Tommy. "That was super cool."

"Yeah, thanks." Tommy preened and held himself higher, his chin pointed slightly.

"We won! We won we won!" Aimsey jumped in a circle around Guqqie who laughed and clapped for them.

Tubbo bolted after Tommy, crashing into him and hugging him before scrambling back up. "dude!!!" Tubbo laughed, Tommy laughed along with him.

"Oh man! That was so cool- I'm— woah, like you were in the air and flying! I know you said you can't fly— but that was flying! I saw it! You flew!" tubbo laughed, the others circling. Tommy's chest felt so light and he felt like he may as well be walking on clouds. The others didn't shut their excitement down either, expressing his coolness and his major epicness. As they should! Tommy knew he was the coolest. It just felt nice to have a group actually have fun with him— laugh with him.

Chapter Text

"Where is Tommy?" Aviel asked, looking over some notes Elijah delivered.

"I think he's in the town playing" Scott smiled to himself. He was happy Tommy was making friends. That may have been his biggest fear bringing Tommy into the castle. He didn't want the kid to come from a place of socialization only to be isolated.

"He's been there quite a bit recently." Aviel started. Scott looked at them.

"I know! I'm quite proud of him."

"Don't you think it's a little dangerous?"

Scott paused his thinking and stared at his advisor. "No?"

"I just mean; It's obvious he's not just a town kid. He's royal now."

"And that means he shouldn't have regular friends?"

"I'm worried about what people will think. Their Emperor's son running around?"

"I run around with some of the locals sometimes too. There's never been an issue there" Scott sat up a bit more. Aviel gave a distasteful look to Scott and shook their head.

"There's a lot that worries me about this. These kids that are peers right now, he'll eventually have to rule over. Will they still respect him after seeing him in such a casual way?"

Scott's frown deepened as he looked at Aviel. These thoughts had never crossed his mind, and even now that they were, it didn't quite make sense to him. "Some of them might work in the castle. It would be good for Tommy to have a relationship with them if he takes the crown." Scott reminded. "I grew up with Owen, and I think he's great. He still respects me as a leader too. As do his peers."

"Owen is special. He was a cadet before he was a knight" Aviel was so gentle when they argued that it hardly even seemed like an argument. "I just mean— Tommy is making a lot of friends with a social class he's now separated from."

"He can still relate to them. He grew up common" Scott squeezed his hands together in his lap.

"I just worry about him." Aviel sighed. Scott's face relaxed (he didn't realize how tense he had become) and he stared ahead at his advisor.

"I don't know what you want me to do, Aviel. I can't just tell Tommy to stop going to hangout with them. I'm happy he's out of the castle. He was starting to lose his mind a bit there, I don't know if you noticed" Scott may have been a little snippy, but Aviel showed little care. After so long, Aviel knew how to react to Scott and his stubbornness.

"I'm not asking you to isolate him—"

"That's what it kind of sounds like to me."

"Scott." Aviel scolded. Scott pressed his lips into a line and looked down, focusing instead on his braid that Jimmy put in this morning. His hair was getting really long, and while he had no plans to cut it shorter as of now, it was starting to get in the way a bit. "Will Tommy be able to make friends in the Cod Empire the same way? You have to remember he's going to be going back and forth a lot. He's going to leave these kids behind for a time and then come back and be separated from them again. That's really hard on a kid; to switch so quickly between social and isolated."

Aviel did this thing a lot. They pointed out issues and flaws, and spoke in circles until Scott agreed that there was an issue. Only for Aviel to magically have a solution that they wanted to propose. It was like they needed Scott to see the issue before the solution. (In fairness, if they came to him with a random want, Scott would probably turn it down a lot faster).

"What do you suggest we do, than Aviel?" Scott sighed, giving into the cycle. Their eye's crinkled in the corner as they smiled, taking a breath of victory.

"My friends over in the Avianary; Pippen and Cerce have been informing me of this cadet who has been excelling in his classes and skills." Scott stared ahead at them, letting them get the point out. He could already feel his own answer bubbling in his chest. "I think it would be a great opportunity to give Owen a successor and Tommy a friend. A friend who can also make sure he stays safe out in the town. Since you insist on Tommy being out there."

It was a lot to consider and there were so many more details he'd need to even think about saying yes. "Tommy is a bit young to need a personal body guard."

"I think because he is young, he needs one."

"How old is the Cadet?" This is where Scott was super suspicious. Cadets were anywhere from thirteen - sixteen. A three year gap. He didn't want to force a sixteen year old to sit at twelve year old Tommy's side. That seemed cruel, not only to Tommy, but the cadet as well.

"I'm unsure."

"If he has a guardian, you'd be asking them to uproot their whole lives to come live here. For an opportunity that he clearly already has."

"He'd have to do out of home training anyways after he's sixteen." Aviel reminded. Scott sighed heavily. It felt like circles where Aviel had the reins. Sometimes he still felt like a kid sitting across from the advisor while they watched his every move, ready to correct it.

"Find out how old he is. I will talk to Tommy."

"You're giving Tommy an awful lot of freedom." Aviel pointed out. Scott's wings ruffled and he looked back at his advisor.

"He's sentient. He's old enough to have opinions. Why treat him like an animal in a cage?"

Maybe Scott was a little too harsh with his tone. But maybe he didn't care as he watched Aviel flinch at the words.

Scott was pacing, but Jimmy was the one who was rambling. They'd leave tomorrow for the Cod Empire. Tommy's first time there, and also the time for him to meet Lizzie and Joel. His first time meeting his new extended family. And it was in a home he wasn't used to. It was clear Jimmy wasn't feeling confident about this, and the worry and stress was getting to him as he watched Scott pace. He also had been insistent he didn't need to return to the Cod Empire the last few weeks which was also clearly taking a toll on him.

"They said his room is ready, but he doesn't even have half the stuff he has here now— I mean, I don't want him to be disappointed or think that it's lame! But I want him to decorate his stuff, and Oh— Oh I hope the clothes fit him. I asked them to check the measurements over three times and I think they'd be real mad at me if I asked again— Do you think he'll get around okay? I'm going to be so busy these first few days and I won't be able to be there with you both… Did Tommy want a shrine to Prime? I can't remember—"

Scott made his way over to where Jimmy was standing, gently grabbing his arms before running his hands up and down them. "Jim, it's okay." Scott said softly, looking at his husbands eyes. They always felt so warm to look into. Like warm chocolate fondue, or coffee on the coldest mornings. "Tommy can stick with me. And if he doesn't want to, he can go out and explore. It's not that big, and people will already be aware and it might even make them excited to see him" Scott took Jimmy's hands in his. He was also obsessed with how warm his hands always were.

"It's his home too. He'll love it all the same." Scott brought Jimmy's hands to his lips one at a time to kiss the back of them, sending a shiver up the cod's arm. "And I'm sure everyone's working very hard to welcome him, and I'm sure they're all super excited about our arrival. It's probably all they've been talking about for a while now." Scott smiled at him, leaning forward to press their foreheads together.

Jimmy leaned in, taking a shaky breath and squeezing Scott's hands. "I know… I just want Tommy to like it there."

"I think we had this same exact conversation the first time I went to stay there for more than a week." Scott teased. Jimmy groaned and leaned his head back, pulling Scott into a hug, Scott obeyed the action and wrapped his arms around Jimmy's neck.

"Is it so bad I want my husband and my kid to be happy?!" He joked at the same time a feint knock was at the door. Scott turned his head back before looking at Jimmy.

"Come in" He called, kissing Jimmy's cheek. The doors in the castle were so old, and as much as they did take care of them; Scott's door seemed to always creek when it was opened too slow.

"Oh— sorry, I didn't—" Tommy went to close the door more but Jimmy called out to him, pulling away from Scott.

"You can come in, Tommy!" they watched as Tommy peeked back in the room, checking for something before opening the door more and walking in.

"Hey Bud" Jimmy beamed at the blond.

Tommy smiled a little. "Hi… I just wanted to check in… Uh— what should I pack?" He looked a little scared of the question. Scott moved over to Tommy, fixing some of his curls. Tommy shifted but let Scott pick at him.

"You'll have clothes there, but they're going to be themed around the empire. Sort of like what you have here? So I'd take anything that you want to wear just casually" Scott looked down at Tommy. For a twelve year old, he was quite tall, no doubt on the way to catch up to or even be taller than Jimmy or even Scott. He couldn't help but wonder how big his wings would get. "And anything you might want to pass time."

"And your school notes!" Jimmy chimed in, sitting on the bed. "Ariadne would appreciate if you brought those" Tommy rolled his eyes briefly before finding Scott's amused face and flushing, looking away as his attitude was caught.

"And Tommy?" Jimmy spoke up. Scott moved to sit in his chair at his vanity. "You can ask for things after we're there. We'll do the same thing where we go around the villages! let you pick things out" Jimmy looked at Scott who nodded in confirmation.

"Right" Tommy nodded. "Yeah. I know that Big Man." Tommy played it off cool, crossing his arms. Jimmy grinned and looked at Tommy a little sideways.

"Did you go into town today?" Scott asked. His conversation with Aviel lingered.

"Nah. They all had homework apparently."

"It is that time of year." Jimmy nodded, frowning."We should ban homework" He looked at Scott. Scott deadpanned at him and sighed.

Scott always visited the church before leaving. He never missed the visit and always had his stuff ready for Jimmy to just grab and meet him. Scott's hair was unbraided, getting mixed into his wings as he pulled his cloak over his shoulders. It wasn't worth it to dress for the full cold when he'd be going to a humid environment. So this would do. He followed his routine as he kissed Jimmy while the other was still mostly asleep, pressed a hand to his door as he closed it slowly, and counted his steps as he walked down the hallway.

This morning his routine was interrupted by Tommy opening his door the moment Scott breathed out with his hand on his own door. "Scott?" Tommy rubbed his eyes. He had just woken up, his hair sticking out all over and his feathers messy. He had his old red and white t-shirt on and some green patterned bottoms that suspiciously matched the ones Jimmy had.

"I'm okay, Tommy. You can go back to bed" Scott moved over to the other, ready to help the kid get into bed again.

"where are you going? It's not time to leave yet, is it?"

"No…" Scott hesitated. "I'm going to visit the church okay? You stay here and help Jimmy bring our things to the dock once he's up" Scott smoothed Tommy's hair down. Tommy yawned and leaned into the touch.

"Can I come with you?"

Scott was sure Tommy was just in some sort of half-asleep state, so he shushed the kid gently. "You can go back to bed, Toms. I promise"

"But I want to—" He yawned and rubbed his eyes again, determined to look at Scott without sleep in his eyes. "I want to come with you. Go to church."

Scott stared. His chest felt tighter and the sun shining through windows was hitting Tommy's wings in such a way that they reflected golden. "Are you sure?"

"Mhm" Tommy nodded slowly.

Scott swallowed and nodded along. "Go grab your coat and boots. is all your stuff ready?"

"No…" Scott smiled.

"Okay. I'll gather it while you dress. Jimmy and Jack will bring our stuff down then. We'll meet them after"

Tommy and him didn't say much to each other as they walked the path. That made his heart all the much louder as it thudded against his ribs, echoing into his ears. It was his church. Scott held pride in his church and the things they celebrated, the way they offered peace and belonging. Aeor was a strict god, but not unkind. Scott grew up learning about how Aeor blessed their lands, giving every great ruler apart of himself for the betterment of society. Scott had to wonder if any of the other rulers who had him as a shadow felt the way he did; Scared, Unworthy, Undeserving. He wondered if Aeor followed them and showed in their dreams. If Aeor reminded them who they belonged to countless times. Only a few would have understood what it felt like to have Aeor live inside of you as you witnessed the simultaneous death of your Mother and your sibling. Only a select few knew the grief that came after when Aeor mourned his own brother so hard that the kingdom went into a depression.

He hoped Tommy would never feel any of that. No; he'd make sure Tommy never felt that.

"Is there anything I need to do?" Tommy asked, blinking the rising sun out of his eyes as they walked up to the church.

"No. I won't be able to talk to you though, and I need to pray at the alter. But you don't have to do anything you don't want to." Scott stopped just short of the doors, turning Tommy to face him. "I mean that, Tom." Scott got very serious. He knew there were the old and early rising priests watching as their Emperor brought his son to their place. There was this sudden buzz coming from the inside. "You don't have to accept prayers, offerings, or your voice. If they ask for your voice, you tell them I forbid you from giving it to them." Scott thought about the first time the gold was smeared across his lips. The first time he drank the gold from the gauntlet that stands proudly at the alter. He was bound to silence for two weeks. He was bound to talking to no one but Aeor for two weeks (he was sixteen).

"I get it, I get it." Tommy rolled his eyes. "I won't speak to the old dudes."

"Tommy" Scott urged. Tommy frowned but saw Scott and nodded.

"I won't do anything I don't want to do." He agreed. Scott still wasn't totally satisfied but he nodded, turning and opening the door for Tommy.

Scott had never actually been in any other churches. He avoided visiting the Watchers and even the Cod Temple was something he stepped foot in only once every now and then. He felt sick every time he tried to go to other churches. It was like Aeor wanted to keep him so firmly in his grasp that it wasn't an option to even see the other gods.

He couldn't help but wonder what Tommy was thinking. Tommy said he had been to the Watcher ceremonies before, but he followed Prime. He wondered if Tommy missed prime more than he let on though. When they entered the church the blond was wide eyed for a moment before smiling a little, looking at Scott. Scott smiled back, albeit a little awkward.

"I'll be at the front, okay?" Scott's voice was a whisper before he left Tommy in the isle of the church. He felt like everyone who was present was staring at him as he walked up. It felt horrifyingly like he was being crowned all over again. The emotional weight of the antlers that sat on the table falling onto him with the weight of a thousand year war. the gold tasting like sugar, but burning his throat like acid. He used his pointer and middle finger to dip into the gold, the powder pluming up in a cloud as he removed his hand. It tasted bitter as he inhaled before pressing his fingers to his lips, dragging the gold down.

Eyes stared at him as he knelt, clasping his hands together. All he could think about was Tommy. What was Tommy thinking as he watched Scott? Scott at his most vulnerable; in the place where all his secrets were stored. Where he wailed as he asked Aeor why he was given this fate. Asking for guidance when it felt like it was the world against him. Begging for forgiveness after realizing he was in love with Jimmy. Sobbing when he realized he was not the little girl his mother asked for, but the boy that was doomed for a fate undeserving.

You can't be a boy. I asked Aeor for a girl.

Horror washed upon her face. They stood in the church as Scott sobbed, clinging to his mothers dress, begging her to not hate him. Her face held defeat now.

Aeor needed a boy. If you are a boy, You are Aeor's child.

Scott's eyes were closed tightly; he forced himself to take deep breaths, ignoring the tears in his eyes. Please Guide my head. Please Hold my heart. Allow me to Breathe, Allow me to Listen, Allow me to Watch.

The mantra was engraved in him.

Please keep Tommy safe. Scott opened his eyes to stare at the antlers. Please watch over Jimmy. Please, Aeor. Please don't disappear. Take my heart, my mind, my soul, all once more; All if it means they are safe. The plea became a chant as he waited for Aeor to respond. He often did not.

There was a glint in the antlers. Reasonably, the sun hit them just right and just bounced off the gold. Undoubtedly to Scott; he saw the Stag. He saw the eyes, the way they looked at him. They judged him for dare looking back at them.

You bring me a child, heart belonging to another. His mother and father passed, his history grand.

The world was dark without Scott realizing how dark it was.

You beg me to not touch him, yet ask for a grant of safety.

Scott felt cold. His bones were turning into ice, and his feathers were becoming heavy along his back.

He calls for me. He is blind with the narrow path of purple light. I could lead him. I could light the way. I could bless him and wipe your tears away.

Had Tommy been digging into the church without his knowledge? Was this a test? He was becoming frozen as a whole, Unable to move.

Your family lives on, Scott Major. Your Legacy is passed down. Be not ashamed as you are, but have pride of what you've worked for.

Scott's eyes snapped open as he felt the rustle of someone next to him, opening his eyes to see Tommy at his side, his smaller wings shielding Scott from the pupils behind them.

"Sorry— You were shaking and the ground below you started to freeze a bit" Tommy shivered, looking below them. Scott opened his mouth before realizing he was still vowed to silence.

Scott looked down at the ice crystals on the floor. His face flushed and he stood up with the help of Tommy.

"Are you okay?" Tommy's voice was so small and so full of concern. He had no idea. Scott nodded before pulling Tommy into a hug. The other didn't hug back for a second before he sort of patted Scott on the back, trying to comfort him. And it was enough.

Scott watched Jack make sure their bags were secured to the pegasi correctly, ensuring nothing was too heavy or too off balance. Jimmy and Tommy would ride one of their pegasi together while Scott flew next to them. It made the most sense in the end, and while the pegasi would need to be returned to Rivendale for the environment, it still gave Tommy an opportunity to "fly".

"Can I get a jukebox for my room in the Cod place?" Tommy asked. Jack snickered as Jimmy glared.

"Cod empire, Tommy" Jimmy reminded and Tommy shrugged. Scott was glad to see Tommy not tensing up and allowing himself to poke fun at both Scott and Jimmy. It felt more casual, Tommy felt more natural in this way. He had a habit of blurting things, and it seemed to normally get him in trouble in his past homes. Scott and Jimmy always made it a point to not express annoyance or anger. Just fun teasing. How a family should be.

"I already have one in your room." Jimmy nodded. "They're really popular there actually! We listen to music like it's no ones business" He winked at Tommy. Tommy smiled a little and raised an eyebrow at Scott.

"It's fun until I'm trying to take a rest and he's got it turned up enough to fill the whole cabin." Scott made sure his bag wasn't too big for his wings to move around. "So remember that." Scott glanced at Tommy. Tommy squinted as if trying to solve a problem.

"Do you have all of what you need? I grabbed any of the bags sitting outside your room" Jimmy looked at Tommy with all the seriousness Jimmy could muster.

"I've got it" Tommy gave a thumbs up. "all good."

"Alright" Jimmy looked at Scott. Scott smiled and moved to briefly kiss Jimmy, ignoring Tommy's dramatic reaction to the PDA. "Let's get going then" Jimmy beamed at his husband.

"Okay Tommy— remember—"

Scott stayed under and behind the two boys as they flew. He watched their bags carefully, and Tommy even more so. Jimmy had a pretty good hold around the kid as he showed him how to guide the pegasi to go where they wanted. Tommy seemed to get it— he also seemed delighted to be in the air, and any time Scott circled around them, he could see the amazed look in Tommy's face. It was amazing to see the wonder shining in bright blue eyes.

They landed easily too. A slightly larger woman with coral colored curls framed her face. Her skin was a little on the green-gray side and she looked a little scary from afar, But Scott greeted her enthusiastically. "Gia!"

"Welcome, Emperor Scott, Codfather" She bowed her head at Jimmy. Her eyes landed on Tommy and Tommy stayed behind Scott's wings to shield himself.

"And you must be Tommy. Prince—?" She looked at Jimmy and Scott who shrugged. In all of their conversations, they hadn't really reached the point of knowing what to declare him as. By Rivendale standards, Tommy wouldn't be a crowned prince until he was sixteen. But he had no Clue what Jimmy thought as far as the Cod Empire.

"Well, Tommy." Gia settled on. "We are very happy you're here. Ariadne and Jimmy have told us quite a lot about you" She looked over as Jax was running their way, avoiding narrowly slipping on a puddle.

"Sorry! So sorry, Codfather." He panted, placing his hands on his hips as he tried to catch his breath. "Ran a bit late— got caught up in talking to— Oh! Oh dude! You're a little dude!" Jax smiled at Tommy. Scott too the opportunity to turn around to look at Tommy. The blond had a bit of a horrified look on his face as he processed everything.

"This is Tommy. Tommy, this is Jax. He's kind of like Elijah and Jack Manifold wrapped up into one job."

"Nice to see you, little bro!" His accent with the word choices always made Scott laugh a little. He had this slightly off oceanic accent. It was heavier than Jimmy's, but not quite as heavy as Lizzie's was. He sounded like he was trying to be posh and "chill" at the same time.

"Oh! Here, lemme grab your bags and shi— stuff" Jax corrected. Jimmy's eye twitched and Gia caught it, snickering.

"You three go on. We'll handle your bags and our friend here" She scratched the chin of the pegasi who whinnied.

It took both Scott and Jimmy placing a hand on Tommy's back to get him to walk forward, but they waited to say much until they were further down the docks and on their to the main house. They'd take the long way to show Tommy around, but it was clear he was nervous. Jimmy was the first to speak.

"What's on your mind? What do you think?" Jimmy asked. There was a hint of fear in his voice. Only Scott would be able to pick it up, but he heard it.

"I don't really know" Tommy explained. He sounded scared again. He was pushing himself under Scott's wing. "Like— it's not bad" He tried to recover. Jimmy just nodded, giving Tommy the time to think. "I just…forgot that you'd all be fish people" He admitted with a blush to his face. "Also it's like—"
Tommy lifted his arms and opened and closed his hands. "—really sticky?"

"It's humid out" Scott agreed. "The clothes Jimmy has for you will help, But there's not a lot we can do about the humidity. Someone should have picked a more tropic area to live" Scott taunted Jimmy.

"Well If I did that, I wouldn't be a cod now would I? Be a clown fish? The clown-father?! Do you hear how silly that sounds?"

"Lizzie is just the ocean queen." Scott smiled knowing what Tommy was going to point out.

"You should have definitely be the swamp king" Tommy looked at Jimmy as his face got red and he glared.

"Now— the codfather is super cool and demands respects and we have all we could ever need here." Jimmy huffed. Scott snickered and rolled his eyes. Tommy's shoulders relaxed as he laughed at the outburst.

"Nothing like having a fish on your head to signify respect." Scott nodded at Tommy who began to giggle a little.

They really did try to make this all as calm as possible for Tommy. They came earlier in the morning, requested all staff wait to be called to see him, and they did their best to hide him from the nosy public. Scott knew both Rivendell and the Cod Empire were nosy kingdoms. Someone always had new information, or there was some drama going on with the ladies who are as old as his mom should have been.

It was still hard though. It wasn't like they could put a barrier over themselves as they walked to make sure the public didn't see. The issue was that all of Jimmy's Buildings were integrated with the town. They could take the long way to get to his cabin, but they still ran into enough people that by the time they had gotten unpacked, he could sense the excitement of Tommy's arrival. People were making an effort to get out of the water and their homes to "shop". Outdoor cafe's and seating was filled by folk pretending to hold actual conversations in just some hopes to catch a glimpse of the kid to confirm the rumors.

Scott would much rather they stay inside the cabin and the counsel visit them. But Jimmy insisted it would be okay. People could talk. There was no point in hiding it. They wouldn't do formal introductions until much later (once he was adopted officially). Scott had changed from his lighter Rivendell gear to his much more air-flowing outfit of the Cod Empire. Green Mesh lined his skin and his pants weren't heavy meaning he could be much brisker in his walking pace. Jimmy of course, being Jimmy, threw his shirt out and adorned his shoulder pads and Codfather head. Tommy asked them if he should change as well. He looked nervous about it, holding his own hands with his eyes shifting to look at the new change of clothes.

"Only if you want to" Jimmy reassured Tommy.

Tommy had removed the long sleeved shirt from under his t-shirt and wore shorts provided by Jimmy. He looked like a normal kid. That's what they needed out of all of this anyways, was a normal kid. He was sure the elders wouldn't be pleased but they were powerless. Tommy was given autonomy, and Scott and Jimmy made sure he knew.

They dwindled for time down by explaining who everyone was for Tommy. And giving him a heads up that; yes— the fish folk area all varying degrees of fish:human. All of Jimmy's counsel were more human than fish, but the more fish than human folk tended to also creep Scott out. He tried to get used to it, but to a certain point it was unsettling when you're used to a specific look.

Jimmy explained to Tommy that things were a lot more manual around the Cod Empire. There was no big castle with tons of staff. There was no staff that was older than the empire itself. But they still ran efficiently. Mostly thanks to the Ocean Empire. Which also brought them to—

"My sister and her husband are going to come and see us in a few days." Jimmy explained to the blond. Scott nodded along, holding a drink close to his chest and listening to the information as if it was the first time he's heard it. He was pretty sure Jimmy had brought it up before now too, but it was good to remind Tommy. Either way he seemed to hold on to Jimmy's words. "You can make fun of Joel as much as you want" He smiled. Tommy glanced at Scott who nodded in total agreement. "But Lizzie is super nice. She's very excited" Jimmy expressed.

"I don't know what there is to be excited about" Tommy looked at Scott then down at himself.

"A lot, Tommy" Scott stood up and squeezed his shoulder, setting the almost empty glass on the counter. "You're a very exciting kid" He winked.

A knock came a second later scaring all but Jimmy. Feathers fell slowly from Tommy's wings and Scott took a moment to really study the back of them. "Tommy—" Scott started. Jimmy had opened the door and Ariadne was flushed and standing there a little out of breath.

"Apologies! I didn't realize how far away you guys were from the meeting buildings." She flushed and smiled behind Jimmy at Tommy. "Everyone is ready though, they're very excited about this— to meet Tommy." She composed herself and stood straight. "And welcome back, Emperor Scott. It's nice to see you again."

Scott smiled and nodded at her. "And to you. Shall we get going then? Do you need a rest before we head out?" Scott thought about the fact she just walked all the way here only to have to walk all the way back. Ariadne smiled and waved him off though.

"oh, me? No! I'll be quite alright. I may trail behind you guys but I will be just fine" She promised. Scott wasn't so sure but Jimmy seemed to be getting antsy alongside Tommy who looked like he didn't quite know what to do with himself.

"Let's get going then?" Jimmy nodded to Scott who made a "lead the way" Motion.

The walk wasn't horrible. It was longer, but they were alert for the public and the reaction as they walked through the town to get to the building. And a few eyes they did catch. It was mostly older folk who were looking out for them specifically, and were pleased when they saw what they wanted to see. Scott used his wing to try to hide Tommy, but there wasn't really a point in that was there? They'd see him eventually and It wasn't like Scott could just hide him forever. Still, his wing was out a bit for Tommy to use as cover should he need to. And maybe he didn't mean to— but he took the offer. And maybe that made Scott's heart swell.

Almost all of Jimmy's counsel was waiting for them, talking eagerly as they waited. The silence that fell was scary as they entered, Jimmy, Tommy, then himself. He trailed after Tommy, watching as everyone stood up to greet them from the table.

"Welcome back Codfather!" Damien greeted. The elders looked over them carefully, their eyes focused on Tommy. Scott could feel the tingle down his own back as he watched their eye's hit Tommy's wings.

"Thank you, Thank you. I'm glad to be back." Jimmy motioned for everyone to take a seat. Jimmy stayed standing at the head of the table, Scott standing behind Tommy next to the Codfather. "And I'm glad to be back with not only Scott, But Tommy" Jimmy looked at the kid. Tommy shifted and nodded before seeming to realize he probably should speak.

"Hi" His voice was off, and he leaned a little backwards into Scott. Scott put a hand on Tommy's shoulder but pulled it off right away as the blond tensed. Tommy looked back at Scott and frowned before looking forward again. Scott's heart sank a little and he looked at Tommy. It was hard when you didn't know what was happening inside someones head.

"Tommy! We are so glad to have you with us my dude." Jax beamed at Tommy. Tommy nodded along, looking at everyone. Scott was a little glad he got to meet Gia, Ariadne and Jax separately so he wouldn't be nearly as shell shocked as Scott was his very first time meeting everyone.

Jimmy began talking, mostly going over how Tommy would integrate with their little system. He avoided the question of Tommy's inheritance by the skin of his teeth and with Gia and Damien to thank for keeping the elders off of the topic. But he knew it lingered on their minds and it would have to be addressed at some point. Scott just didn't want to think about that right now. He didn't entertain it in his own home, and neither would he in his Husbands. At some point him and Tommy had sat down, but he knew neither of them were paying attention. Jimmy was all business and Scott rarely gave his own voice here. Jimmy had it under control anyways.

He explained that Tommy would indeed go with them to the celebration, and he would travel with them so long as he wanted to. Jimmy assured Ariadne and Niki that Tommy was excelling in Rivendell when it came to making friends and being a great kid overall. The praise seemed to boost Tommy's mood as he tuned in a lot more going from looking totally zoned out to at least watching who was talking. His hand seemed to find threads as he tugged at them, only stopping when Scott gently put his hands over the blonds.

It had to have been two hours of sitting there listening to the weird and silly questions all revolving Tommy and what Tommy's involvement and presence meant for everyone. The consensus was that Tommy really didn't change anyone or anything. Ariadne already knew her new duties and she accepted them with grace and a proud smile as Tommy spoke up once about how Ariadne is a "Chill Teacher". Anyone would seem chill next to Aviel. Scott didn't say that though.

He was only called on once, and that was to ask how he and his own staff were handling the new adjustment. Scott stayed polite and let the others have a glimpse into Rivendell. "Everyone is hopeful for Tommy and they're making sure he is well taken care of. Aviel says he is very intelligent and even Solstice is impressed by some of his talents." Scott was very light with his tone, using the voice he'd use when addressing public questions in crowds.

Jimmy could tell Scott and Tommy were getting bored and uncomfortable having to sit there and listen to them. Scott knew it was worse for Tommy. He really was trying to sit there and be "good", but he was fidgeting to a noticeable amount and would glance at Scott every few minutes as if asking "how much longer".

"Are all meetings that boring?" Tommy was bumping into Jimmy's shoulder as they walked and Jimmy would always let him, smiling at the small sign of affection.

"Yes" Scott nodded. "They're pretty much the same anywhere you go. Just a bunch of adults repeating themselves ten thousand times" Scott looked at Jimmy who rolled his eyes.

"That's the last involuntary one you have to sit in on for a while" Jimmy promised, catching Tommy with his arm around his shoulders the next time the kid bumped into him. Tommy went to escape but accepted his fate rather quickly.

"Good. I think I'd actually pass away of boredom. How do you do it? How can you just sit there listening to them the whole time?" Tommy groaned. "There's only so many ways you can ask If I'm being taught about the true history. Scott nodded along, looking down and watching some fish swim under them as they crossed the bridge.

"That's where our studies are" Jimmy pointed to another building. "All of the staff have an office there, So do Scott and I" Tommy looked at the building before jimmy again.

"Do you have a war room?" He asked. Jimmy grinned.

"It's a tower. It's right over there— and then inside the wall boarder? There's another one on the east corner" He pointed along the wall. Scott followed Jimmy's directions even though he knew where everything was.

"Have you ever gone to war?"

Jimmy looked over at Scott and Scott shrugged in response. He'd call what happened a war. A really weird one, but definitely a war. "Yeah. With the Grimlands and Mythlands. King Sausage stole some stuff of mine and Fwhip helped him, so we kinda started going at it." Jimmy looked a little embarrassed.

Tommy still looked very interested and amused. "really?"

"really. It was a huge thing. Eventually it was just Fwhip and I, but we had to reconcile after… things." Jimmy left out the funnier parts. Scott smiled but didn't share the secrets as Tommy just seemed thrilled at the Idea that Jimmy was in a war.

"Did you win?"

"Kind of?" Jimmy laughed. "I'd say it was a win." He squeezed the kid closer before letting him go.

"I'll take it. That's so cool—" Tommy hummed, clearly amused with whatever else he was thinking. "Do you have a Cod army? Were they who went to war with you?"

"Eh—" Jimmy looked at how excited Tommy was becoming. "Yes. I did. They were all very brave and we have a remembrance day to celebrate all that they did for us" Jimmy rested a hand on his heart, looking to his cod statue.

Jimmy still had meetings and Scott and Tommy collectively agreed they could entertain each other. The exhaustion from traveling was hitting hard and Scott thought about taking a nap to pass the time and catch up on rest. He didn't want to leave Tommy awake and alone though (even if Tommy also looked half asleep). So he grabbed a book and planned on sitting in the main room while suggesting Tommy stay with him and maybe work on something, or even play a game with his book as a backup.

When he moved from his room to the main area though he found Tommy lingering by the kitchen, waiting for Scott. He tried to ignore the warmth as Tommy lit up seeing him. "Hey Tommy, are you hungry?" Scott looked at the kitchen, his own stomach rumbling. They had a snack a while ago, but it wasn't a full meal. Nothing grand like they had in Rivendell. That was Scott's least favorite part about being here. The lack of chefs to cook for them. Scott didn't hate cooking, but the effort that went into it sometimes was more than he wanted to admit he would give. Maybe it was a symptom of growing up in the castle, but he always said he just liked to watch Jimmy cook for him.

"Can I… Use the kitchen? Like—" Scott was taken back by how scared and shy Tommy seemed about this. "—to cook for us? I know how to use the stove! I was taught— And a knife. I know how to use a knife. The right way, not just to stab someone" He blinked at Scott. Scott paused, his wings ruffling as he processed the request before relaxing.

"Yeah. Yeah, of course— Do you need help lighting the firewood?"

"…Do you care if I light it?" Tommy squinted at Scott and suddenly it became obvious that he probably shouldn't trust a child with fire.

"Yes…" Scott said slowly. "I do. I'll light it." Scott moved to where he knew the matches were and got to work getting the stove ready for Tommy to use.

Tommy hesitated as he looked around before looking at Scott again. Scott didn't know what he was feeling while watching Tommy look scared and nervous, like he was preparing himself to ask a question. As if their whole relationship reset some since moving to the Cod Empire.

"What's going on, Tommy?" Scott tried to be reassuring. He gave into that feeling in his gut.

"Can you stay close?"

"What? Of course. I was going to." Scott stared, his eyebrows furrowing. "Did you think I'd just walk away while you're working with fire?"

Tommy's face flushed and he looked away, becoming defensive again like Scott knew. "No! I just wanted to test and see if you actually knew what you were doing." He scoffed, crossing his arms and walking to the pantry. Scott smiled and hummed.

"Right. We'll I'll just be sitting at the table and reading, Alright?" Scott pulled the chair out and sat down.

The sound of things being set out filled the room along with Tommy's murmuring to himself. It lasted for a moment though before Tommy was speaking again.

"What are you reading?"

"An Elvish book."

"In Elvish?"

"Yes." Scott's eyes moved along the page, listening for Tommy's next reply.

"What's it called?"

Scott closed the book around his thumb to look at the cover, reading it aloud in Elvish. The words felt like silver rolling off his tongue. Tommy paused and squinted as he tried to figure out what Scott just said.

"can you translate it?"

Scott had to think for a moment about what it would be in common. Elvish was full of "mystical" talk that went in circles and talked in fancy rhythms and didn't quite make sense when translated literally.

"The Sky's Fish" Scott settled on. Tommy smiled before forcing it away.

"What's it about?"

"This girl that was stolen from her home as a baby by the Fae. She's trying to figure out where she came from and why the Fae won't let her leave their realm." Scott opened the book again.

"Huh. Weird. Is it good?"

"Very" Scott had read this a long time ago. It was one of his favorites to pick up when he just needed something easy.

"…Can you read it aloud?"

"I don't think I can translate it fast enough" Scott admitted.

"Can you read it in Elvish then?"

"Even if you wont understand it?"

"Yeah" Tommy focused on cutting up something. Scott looked back down at his book before nodding, shifting in his seat and beginning.

"She gazes at the mother, stars in eyes and hopes high. She asks "When Can I fly?"

The mother sings "When Can I?" Evelina thinks.

"When the sun is high and the moon says goodbye, when the Moon smiles and the sun breaks into many." she relates.

"Then when the Sun is shy and the moon stops by. Then, that is when you may fly." Mother kisses her eye.

Evelina knows, this is not her home. this is all she knows. But; Mother can fly. Why not I?"

Chapter Text

Jimmy wasn't one to be super super nervous. So when he was, it made Scott feel even worse. He sat at their table with Jimmy in the morning before Tommy woke up. He figured the travel was enough to knock the kid out for a good while into the morning. Lizzie and Joel would arrive any hour now and Jimmy was fearful of many things.

"It's Lizzie and Joel" Scott picked his muffin up, eating it carefully over the plate.

"I know that, Scott! But what if Joel says the wrong thing? Or Lizzie thinks were unfit and she tells us to reverse the choice—"

"She would never do that, Jim. You're being silly."

"When you do this you're thinking logically, yet I'm being silly?" Jimmy pouted. Scott tilted his head to the side and nodded.

"Yes." He said simply, watching as Tommy shuffled out. He decided to not dress himself in day clothes before coming out, but he did take one look at the formality of Jimmy and Scott and flushed in realization.

"Good morning Tommy. Would you like a muffin?" Scott asked calmly. Jimmy glared at Scott and sighed.

"Why's Jimmy in a tiff?" Tommy plopped down in the chair across from Scott and next to Jimmy. Jimmy looked at Scott and crossed his arms.

"Yeah, Scott. Why am I in a mood?"

"He's being dramatic and going down all the wrong rabbit holes." Scott said simply, picking up his teacup. He crossed his leg over the other and closed his eyes to annoy Jimmy further.

"Oh look at him— thinks he's all that. He's not. Trust me, I sleep next to him and sometimes his morning hair is absolutely monstrous." Jimmy loudly whispered to Tommy who snorted.

"I bet." Tommy agreed. Scott frowned and put his cup down.

"You said I always look beautiful. Even with my monstrous hair. If I recall—" Scott started, Jimmy standing up and pointing at Scott with hurry.

"Now don't you start that!" He warned. Scott smirked at him, tilting his head innocently and letting his hair fall off his shoulders. "I know what you were going to say, and there are innocent ears here that don't deserve to be corrupted by you!" Jimmy accused.

"I don't know what you mean, Jim. I was going to say I recall you vowing to me that you'd find beauty in every part of me" He hummed, clearly changing course.

Obviously Jimmy had once woken up and wanted to ravage Scott that very morning because he 'looked like the hottest hot mess' Jimmy ever saw. But he wouldn't subject Tommy to that memory. The kid still seemed to get the hint and wrinkled his nose but laughed at Jimmy's reaction.

"How'd you sleep, Tom?" Scott focused on Tommy now, ignoring the looks Jimmy was sending his way.

"Fine. Was weird waking up and it not being freezing" He admitted, grabbing a muffin. Scott did have to admit, breakfast (the only meal delivered to them) was his favorite in the Cod Empire. They always brought home bakery items, or items straight from the Ocean Empire bakeries.

"See, Here we know the luxuries of warmth and the sun." Jimmy motioned around him.

"We also have the sun, It's just shining on top of a mountain." Scott pointed out. Jimmy's face soured and he sighed. Scott may be too into Jimmy because he felt just a little bad for the other who woke up nervous and hadn't stopped. He didn't think the usual humor was doing much to help him either.

"Well. I am very excited to see Lizzie and Joel today. And I know they are also very excited to see you. I think we should go down to the beach this evening in fact." Scott never suggested that. He didn't hate swimming, but he didn't love it either. Especially at a beach. But there wasn't really a lot of sand at the Cod Beaches. It was stones and rocks that sunbathed all day. And there were boulders that Scott could sit on and be far enough out that Jimmy actually enjoyed going.

Both Jimmy and Tommy's eyes lit up and they looked like father and son. Scott didn't hide his smile as he looked at the both of them. The same grin, same hair bouncing as they turned to look at him. Jimmy was just slightly tanner than Tommy too.

"I think it would be fun. It's quite warm outside too." Scott took another bite of his muffin.

"Oh! Oh that would be— oh Scott you're so smart!" Jimmy moved across the table to kiss him. Scott tilted his head up to meet him and Tommy pretended to gag.

"You guys are gross."

"What true love looks like" Scott winked at him. Tommy rolled his eyes. 

"Can I swim at the beach?"

"Can you— He asks, can you— He asks a fish! The Cod Father!" Jimmy joked, going behind Tommy and grabbing his shoulders. Tommy rolled his eyes.

"He is a drama queen." Tommy agreed. Scott let out a loud laugh at that, tilting his head back. Jimmy shook Tommy's shoulders a little and scoffed.

"Ganged up on by my own Husband and Kid." He said. Jimmy said it so naturally and easily. Everyone around him had. He couldn't remember a time he himself had called Tommy his son. Or even his child. His memory, of course, could be faulty. Others had called Tommy his son and he had agreed or confirmed them. But he didn't remember the words ever leaving his mouth. Something formed inside his stomach at that realization. Why hadn't he declared him as his? Obviously Scott had argued countless times before that Jimmy and him were in fact adopting Tommy by the end of this; but there was never a moment where Scott spoke it into existence.

He watched as Tommy and Jimmy picked at each other, both grinning and Tommy even getting up to chase after Jimmy. He loved Jimmy so much and watching him with Tommy only made him love him more. Jimmy was so good at being a dad. He had so much pride in Tommy already and was always ready to do what he needed to. He seemed to know what Tommy always needed too. Yet Scott could hardly tell what was going on in Tommy's head. He struggled to know when Tommy needed a laugh versus when he probably needed a hug. Scott himself hardly knew when he needed a hug.

"When are they arriving? Tommy asked after avoiding Jimmy's hold on him, standing up to eat.

"Hopefully soon. Midday perhaps?" Scott smiled. Jimmy nodded. "Hopefully. We can go sit on the docks and wait for them if you wanted" The cod looked at Tommy. Tommy shook his head.

"That makes me look weirdly eager to meet people i've hardly even heard of before" Tommy admited.

"It's not weird if we're just waiting to greet them" Jimmy moved around to room to stand behind Scott again, brushing his hair to his back before starting to braid it for him. Scott smiled and tilted his head back a little, letting Jimmy do the chore. It became a habit. Jimmy had learned how to braid Lizzie's hair a long long time ago. And Scott tried to keep his hair out of his way as much as possible. It got harder the longer it got, but Jimmy always took the time to pull it back and do a simple braid to gather it all. Tommy watched them, clearly curious to the habit.

"I think it's still weird."

"Technically it's a formality" Scott hummed, his wings and shoulders relaxing.

"Are you supposed to greet them?"

"If they were anyone else, yes. But it is just Lizzie and Joel" Jimmy shrugged behind him.

"I'm telling Lizzie you said that" Scott teased. Jimmy tied off the braid and stepped back, scoffing.

"Said what?"

"That it's just Lizzie and Joel." Scott turned around slightly to look at his husband. Tommy snorted and nodded.

"If you don't I will" He backed him up. Jimmy glared at Scott before Tommy.

"What is with the gang-up today?!"

"It's only fun because you react like that" Scott stood up, kissing Jimmy's cheek. "It's hard to greet them when we don't know when they'll be here" Scott moved to take care of the dishes they made, setting them in the sink to come back to.

"I don't see why we can't just sit on the docks." Jimmy frowned.

"You only say that because you want to swim around." Scott deadpanned, looking to Tommy to dramatically roll his eyes. "can you believe him? So selfish" He joked. Tommy stared before smiling cautiously.

"Totally"

They ended up sitting on the edge of the dock, waiting for Jimmy's sister and brother-in-law. It gave Jimmy the chance to swim around below them, enjoying the water he had missed for so long. It was near impossible to swim in Rivendell and Scott always felt bad. He promised he would work on a hot spring for Jimmy, but it was slow to fruition compared to the rest of what was happening in their lives. So watching Jimmy swim back and forth, keeping a lookout for his sister was a little enjoyable to watch. Tommy sat next to him too, his feet barely skimming the water. Scott had given him the same style of flats he was gifted. Tommy seemed okay to wear them, but took them off to prevent them from getting in the water (even if they could be worn in it).

"How are you liking it here now that you've spent the night?" Scott asked, watching Jimmy dart under them again, making sure to brush against Scott's legs that were in the water.

"It's fine. I dunno." Tommy stared ahead. He seemed distant in the moment. He knew he could just ask, but it would make things so much better if he could just read what was going on in the kids mind. "I'm worried…" Tommy started, hesitating. Scott stayed quiet and patient., letting Tommy take his time. "I'm worried I'll be bored again. I mean, I just made…friends—" He said it so hesitantly. He had been spending a lot of time out of the castle, but Scott didn't quiet know who all he always saw. "—and now I'm kinda restarting. It sucks." Tommy picked at his hands, avoiding looking anywhere close to Scott.

Scott understood. Maybe not to the full extent, but he did get it. "When I first married Jimmy and I spent three weeks here, I was really scared." Scott admitted. "I refused to tell Jimmy, and I think he knew, but even now I refuse to admit it to him." He closed his eyes and focused on the sun hitting his face. Tommy hummed in response.

"I didn't know anyone. I felt so weird following Jimmy around, and even being in my office was really scary." Scott remembered praying to Aeor a lot. Talking to him, shoved in the little corner he had dedicated to the god. He begged to not be so scared, to not be so weak.

"But you made friends with the staff and blah blah blah" Tommy rolled his eyes. "Yeah, must've been really hard being an adult surrounded by adults" Tommy's tone held a small amount of venom in them. It took Scott back a little and he had to open his eyes to stare at Tommy who still refused to look at him. Was Tommy resentful? Did he hate being pulled away that much? Did he resent them the same when he was forced into Rivendell?

"Actually I sort of refused to make friends with them" Scott exhaled. Tommy finally looked at him, and he had this deadpanned look on his face as if Scott was just not paying attention to the tone.

"Tommy-"

"No— I know. I'll find peace, yadda, yadda. Whatever." He dismissed. Scott frowned. He didn't know what to say to that. He couldn't promise Tommy would find friends here. The population of children wasn't super low, but it wasn't really great either. A lot of families chose to live near the Ocean instead for schooling.

"I get it Tommy. I can't promise anything, But just know I get it." Scott looked down as Jimmy circled around them both. Scott tried to ignore the way Tommy didn't respond. The silence felt colder than Rivendell mornings. He hated it and wished He could reverse the conversation.

The surface of the water broke and Jimmy breathed in dramatically, beaming at them. Scott put on the best smile he could and leaned forward, resting his elbows on his knees. "I saw her! Lizzie is close!" Jimmy got out before being yanked back into the water. Tommy startled and looked around. Scott snickered and stood up, holding a hand out for Tommy to get up, but was promptly ignored as the kid got up himself.

"Be blessed, I'm here" Joel's voice caught his ears as the king landed behind them, His wings folding along his back before seeming to vanish. Scott didn't pretend to know how that worked.

"Oh look, Joel's here" Scott rolled his eyes. Tommy squinted at Joel before looking at Scott and raising his eyebrows.

"This is Joel?"

"It is" Scott smiled, watching Joel's face fall a little, his lip twitching.

"You could have at least played along" He argued, turning to watch Lizzie and Jimmy pull themselves out of the water.

"Scott!" Lizzie gasped. Scott tried to ignore the fact she was soaking as she pulled him into a hug. He should have been used to it from Jimmy, but he still cringed as the water seeped through his clothes.

"Hi Lizzie." He said softly, still hugging her back.

"And…" Jimmy puffed his chest out, looking so proud and excited as he moved over to Tommy.

"This is Tommy" He put a hand on the kids shoulder. Tommy looked a little weirded out by Jimmy's wet hand on his shoulder, but smiled awkwardly to the two.

"That's my sister Lizzie, and her stinky Oger that follows her. A-k-a Joel." Jimmy stayed next to Tommy as the kid nodded, looking each of them up and down. He flushed a little as Jimmy shook his shoulder. "Like I said. Make fun of Joel as much as you want" He "whispered".

"Oi! I can hear you you fish-brain" Joel glared. Tommy snorted.

"Weirdly I can see the oger resemblance" Tommy crossed his arms. That got a laugh out of Lizzie as Joel scoffed.

"So much for spoiling him" Joel grumbled, Lizzie patting his back.

"Okay! Okay, Let's get moving on! There's so much to talk about!" She beamed, leading the way forward. Scott gestured for Joel to move in front of him, but the stubborn oaf decided to walk next to him while Tommy walked alongside Jimmy, more entranced by Lizzie and her new story of the things she saw on her way here.

Joel didn't actually say anything to him though, Just followed along and kept Scott's side warm as they moved through the buzzing town. It was one thing to have a new kid here. It was another to now have the whole family in one area. So much to guess and gossip about.

"Oh! Tommy, we got you a gift—" Lizzie looked to Joel who seemed shocked as she looked at him.

"Why are you looking at me? You said you had grabbed it." Joel put his hands up. Lizzie's face fell a little and her eyes widened.

"Joel! I was swimming! Why on earth would I grab it?"

"Because you were the one who wanted to get it!"

"Joel!" Lizzie stressed. Joel rolled his eyes before smiling and pulling something out of his bag. A disk, outlined in green and purple.

"Calm down. I'm messing. Here you go, Kid."

"I'm not a kid" Tommy wrinkled his nose, but moved over to Joel. He took the disk and inspected it, trying to not smile as much as he wanted to. Scott smiled watching it, and Jimmy's eyes went wide.

"What is it?"

"A Mezalea special" Joel turned his nose up and smirked. Tommy flipped it over and inspected it, smiling.

"Thanks" He looked up. Joel grinned at the kid.

"There's a jukebox over there if you wanted to play it" Scott pointed. Tommy perked up.

"Can I?"

"Absolutely" Scott laughed. It was easy to forget anything that happened on the dock as Tommy hurried over to the Jukebox, inserting it. Joel moved with Jimmy over to listen to it with the blond. The music filled the space easily and was actually nice to listen to. It had a feeling of luxury but youth to it. He wondered if it was a new artist upcoming. Mezalea was mostly known for art, but music wasn't far behind. Joel had an affinity for it too which made it more prominent. Lizzie smiled and moved over to Scott, grinning at him.

"He's amazing" She said softly so the music would drown her out.

"He is." Scott agreed.

"I think he's really good for you two."

"I'd hope so."

"I mean it, Scott." Lizzie turned so she could look him face on.

Scott's shoulders relaxed and he smiled at her.

"I know." He agreed.

Lizzie and Joel both seemed very pleased at the idea of heading to the beach. Lizzie insisted they use the rest of the day to hangout there. Which meant packing sandwiches made by the seablings and fruits cut up by Scott, and baked goods snuck into their bag by Tommy and Joel who didn't do the work, but encouraged Tommy to do it for him.

"You're going to turn him into a criminal" Jimmy joked.

"Nah, Just a really good mastermind-er. All the great qualities for a brilliant King" Joel pretended to toss his hair over his shoulder only to be laughed at by Tommy. That quickly seemed to Humble him and he rolled his eyes.

They went at a good time too. There wasn't really many people at the beach, leaving the royal families to take it over as Scott and Joel set their stuff down on the rocks. Tommy wasn't given a bathing suit, for whatever reason (much to Jimmy's confusion and betrayal. "We live in the water! Why wouldn't they give him a suit!?" "Because they probably didn't know if he would swim. He's got wings." "You have wings and you swim!" "Rarely" Scott said while adorning his bathing suit). Luckily Joel had (a weird amount) extra shorts. They were surprisingly a good fit on the lanky kid which just lead to a lot of short jokes shot at Joel.

"Tommy!" Scott called as the other had tried to run to the water. Jimmy and Tommy both paused and looked back.

"What" Tommy frowned.

"Come here please?" Scott pulled the cork off the serum. "You'll burn and Joel will call you a burnt chicken" Scott smeared the cream over Tommy's face and then his neck and shoulders as the kid stood there antsy.

"I am not a chicken" He glared at Joel, warning him to try.

"Neither is Scott"

"He called you—"

"He did." Scott glared at Joel who grinned and flipped him off before running at full speed and tackling Jimmy, knocking them both into the water.

"Trust me. Being burned hurts. The sun is not nice to our skin." Scott made sure Tommy was properly covered before stepping back. Tommy did not look amused at all but sat there and let it happen.

"Okay. Go on" Scott shooed him. Tommy beamed and gave Scott an awkward one-armed hug before running into the water, his wings expanding out behind him to save from getting wet. It didn't last long as Jimmy splashed Tommy before picking him up and dunking him.

Scott winced and his own wings ruffled behind him, But he heard Tommy come up and laugh before attacking Jimmy.

"You really love them." Lizzie said from behind Scott. Scott turned around and looked at her, smiling.

"I do. Both of them" He agreed.

"Come with me in the water?" she offered her hand. Scott sighed and took it.

"Only because you asked." He agreed, following her. He got in up to his knees, his wings expanding behind him so they didn't get wet.

"I think you'd follow Jimmy into the depths if he asked you" She teased. Scott narrowed his eyes at her.

"I'm not that in love with him."

"But you are~" She giggled, not letting Scott reply as she ducked under the water, circling Scott a few times before going over. She must have grabbed Joel's legs because he screamed for two seconds before being pulled under. Tommy laughed and dived into the water, making his way to Scott. Scott tried to meet him more, but it was getting a little hard to keep his wings above the water. And seeing Tommy's feathers soaked and flowing under the water only made his hurt more. So he gave in and let them drop, the bottom of them getting wet. A mess for him to deal with later.

"Come on, Scott, We gotta catch Jimmy. I can't pick him out of the water" Tommy grabbed Scott's hand. He was already near waist deep and his wings were too big for half of them to not be soaked. He cringed, but the way Tommy stayed so excited and wanted to pull him along beat everything else he was feeling.

"We have to catch him?"

"Yeah. He keeps being weird and going around us while showing off!" Tommy found a place. The water was nearly to Tommy's chest and it was lapping at Scott's ribs just under where his top ended.

"He's good at that" Scott laughed, watching Joel come up for air, looking a little love-sick. Scott laughed at him before feeling Jimmy's tail hit his legs. Right away Scott's arms were in the water, but he just missed his husband, being able to see the bubbled rise from his laughter.

"Fish people!" Tommy groaned. "Why are they so slippery?!"

Joel made his way over, nearly tripping on Lizzie on the way.

"They're all malicious" He sneered, clearly joking. "Slimy scaly and—"

"Whatcha saying?" Lizzie forced herself into Joels arms.

"Just that I love you and every part of you!" Joel beamed. Lizzie giggled while Tommy began laughing. Scott quickly realized Tommy was laughing at him as Jimmy loomed behind him.

His reaction of jolting and freezing the water around him only made Jimmy quicker in wrapping his arms around Scott and pulling him under. Scott managed to inhale and try to not freeze everyone in proximity as Jimmy laughed, his voice being so clear through the water.

"You should have seen your face!" He taunted, squeezing Scott before letting him go. Scott tried to not think about how his hair was now soaked too. He gasped for air as he came up, his wings floating behind him.

"Jimmy!" Scott scolded, but had to laugh as Tommy was giggling at them.

"oh?" Scott smirked. "Was that Funny?" He teased. Tommy grinned.

"It was!" He taunted, shrieking as Scott lunged at him, barely missing. Scott didn't give up his pursuit though, swimming to Tommy before grabbing his arm and pulling him into a wrestled hug.

Tommy laughed and squirmed in Scott's arms, Lizzie cheering for Tommy.

"I'm coming to save you!" She called. Scott laughed and Squeezed Tommy before inhaling, giving the kid a chance too to before he dunked them both under water. Tommy was clearly still trying to laugh as he pushed off against Scott, pushing Scott into Lizzie's arms who just brought him back up to the surface.

"The betrayal!" Jimmy laughed. "Don't worry Tommy! I'll keep you safe!" Jimmy grinned, starting to swim over to Tommy with his head above the water.

"Liars! All of you!" Tommy laughed, swimming over to Joel who actually got ready to guard Tommy against Jimmy. Scott laughed and let himself lay back in the water, his wings expanding to help him float correctly. Hearing the way Tommy laughed became calming and Scott was grinning with the sun shining on his face. He only opened his eyes because he felt Jimmy swim under him. Scott waited a moment longer to stand back up, pleased to Find Jimmy standing there waiting to kiss him before swimming off again.

"And then Aimsey and I chased in a circle around this one cart, and I think the vendor was kind of getting sick of us because he gave us both some cheese cubes and told us to take a break. Which we did" Tommy nodded. "But obviously because I'm so great, I finished before them and tagged them, winning the whole game, and everyone cheered and chanted my name and It was so cool and I was so awesome" Tommy smirked and took a bite of the pastry he packed. Lizzie gave a look to Scott.

"If I didn't know better I'd think he's been around Joel for too long" She joked, eating a strawberry in the processes. Joel glared before turning to Tommy and nodding to affirm the kid.

"Keep that mindset up, Buddy. You'll show them" He grinned, Jimmy rolling his eyes.

"Do not take Joel's advice. His advice sucks. He told me to propose to Scott using the Cod to lure him somewhere. I tried that and you know what Scott did? He ignored them! All of them!"

"They are fish, Jimmy" Scott sighed. "I can't speak to fish" He leaned back on his hands.

"So?!" Jimmy groaned.

"A waste of my whole day!" Jimmy groaned. Scott snickered and Tommy smiled but rolled his eyes.

"It's amazing that you have so many friends, Tommy!" Lizzie chimed in. Tommy took the words as praise and beamed at her.

"I know right? And they all think I'm so cool"

"Really?"

"Yeah—!"

Tommy was not happy Scott made them all wait thirty minutes before swimming again. But they passed the time by telling Tommy a bunch of tales of their youth, giving Tommy an insight into how they grew up.

"Jimmy was so tiny for such a long time! He also used to demand to be walked everywhere and I had to hold his hand. I could hardly get anything done!" She rolled her eyes.

"When Jim and I first met, I made him cry" Joel admitted. Tommy thought that was hilarious. Jimmy of course soured, but didn't deny the memory. "And when I met Scott I thought he was the worst person I'd ever meet. I actually tried to throw food at him but felt bad for him so I didn't" Joel smiled as if he was some sort of hero. Scott glared.

"Actually I remember cornering you and telling you if you tried anything I'd fight you outside." Scott recalled. Lizzie and Jimmy both seemed to know that neither of them were telling the truth and were dramatizing the events. Tommy didn't need to know that.

"I was terrified of Scott. But Lizzie and him got on so well— I was actually jealous and Joel had to listen to me go on about how Lizzie was crazy for making friends with him."

"Scott was just a scary kid then?"

"Absolutely" Jimmy and Joel nodded. Lizzie glared at them both and Scott rolled his eyes. He wasn't that bad. He was just going through a few things and didn't have time for boys to be messing with him.

"But you only saw each other a few times a year?" Tommy frowned.

"Yup. Whenever there were ambassador meetings and we begged our parents to go" Joel nodded. Lizzie and Jimmy gave each other a look but didn't comment.

"Used to be my least favorite events of the year. Having to see all these greasy kids that weren't on my level." Joel scoffed. Scott rolled his eyes.

"They weren't bad but they were super boring. And Some kids made it worse." Scott glared at Joel who flipped him off.

"Hey! Not in front of Tommy!" Jimmy scolded. Joel frowned.

"Kids almost thirteen!"

"Yeah! I'm a big man. I can handle some swearing" Tommy puffed his chest out. "Fuck, Bitch, Shit, Pu—"

"Tommy!" Jimmy screeched. "Language! Don't say those things! Look what you've done Joel" Jimmy glared. Tommy laughed as Joel was blamed for what was already an established habit of Tommy's.

Lizzie, Jimmy and Tommy decided to get back in the water. Scott and Joel decided to stay out and stay dry. His wings were still heavy enough that they hurt to keep up for too long, so it made the perfect excuse to sit on the boulders and let his wings air out as he watched the trio in the water. Lizzie and Jimmy would circle Tommy while Tommy tried to catch them.

Joel sat next to him, seeming to enjoy the now setting sun.

"How's it?" Joel asked. His voice was so casual that Scott didn't really register the question.

"fine. Warm" He tilted his head up. Joel squinted the sun out of his eyes as he looked over at Scott.

"I mean with Tommy. How are you doing?" Joel asked. Scott still didn't quite process it. He really was enjoying being dried off, his wings becoming lighter by the minute.

"It's fine. A new routine." Scott hummed. Joel shifted and let out a grunt before a sigh.

"How are you doing, Scott? With all of this?" Joel asked, looking a little annoyed Scott wasn't catching on so fast.

Scott opened his eyes to find the other, looking at him and sighing. "Easy answer or hard?"

"Whatever the truth is." Joel was so honest with his reply.

Scott watched as Tommy sat on Lizzie's shoulders, the both of them terrorizing Jimmy.

"Sometimes I feel like this isn't what I'm supposed to be doing. Like I'm trying to stay caught up to Jimmy and Tommy but I'm just one step behind." Scott swallowed thickly. Joel stayed quiet to let him continue. He started, he may as well keep going. "Like— I look at Jimmy and how he interacts with Tommy, and It's so clear this was meant for him. Jimmy is just… fitting into the "dad" role so easily. He knows what to say, what to do. I just feel like I'm praying that I'm scraping by." Scott closed his eyes so tears couldn't form.

"I just…" Scott pulled his knees to his chest. "I don't know what I'm doing, Joel. And I feel like that's obvious. Like even Tommy can sense it." He opened his eyes to watch as Lizzie assisted in launching Tommy in the air, Tommy being half caught by Jimmy as they both fell into the water.

Joel not responding made him feel even worse and Scott considered heading back to the house all together. Joel could see it then. He agreed. Scott was not meant to do this— to parent. His family tree had such bad luck and he hardly knew what a normal childhood looked like, and it showed clear as day.

"I don't think anyone knows how to parent their first kid." Joel looked at Scott again. Scott shrugged.

"Jimmy seems to."

"I have a feeling he probably feels the way you do." Joel laid back on the rock, treating this as some casual conversation. Had Scott not felt so self-pitying he would have been annoyed. He couldn't care though. "Just cause he seems like a dad doesn't mean he knows what he's doing. He's not got all those instincts just from looking at Tommy. He's guessing all the same." Joel spoke.

"It doesn't feel like that" Scott sighed. Joel grabbed Scott's arm to pull him to lay down.

"I can't convince you, Scott. But you gotta hear me out when I say parenting is something you have to figure it out together." Joel breathed slowly. "Tommy looks happy though. He seems happy. Any time he's not, you gotta remember he's becoming a teenager."

"And he just had his life uprooted" Scott nodded along.

"Right" Joel agreed. "You're a family now. And a pretty good family at that. I mean— you think a kid who wasn't happy would be as calm as he is?" Joel snorted. "Were you happy like he was?"

Scott paused. By twelve he had found out he ruined his life by announcing he was a boy. He made his mothers nightmares come true, and he was so scared he locked himself in his room as much as he could. He was arguing with Xornoth every other hour and he wished His mom would throw him out so he could at least be out of the castle. His mom struggled to look at him and tried to convince him that he just needed to pretend everything was okay. That he needed to just be the perfect son. Scott didn't even know how to be the perfect daughter let alone the perfect son.

"No" Scott whispered.

"Then you must be doing better than your Mum did."

Scott wanted to scorn Joel for speaking ill of her. But Joel wasn't wrong. Aviel was the testament to how much better he was doing with Tommy. Aviel disagreed with most things he did, and that very much meant he was doing what his mother wouldn't.

Scott laid there, listening to the splashing and the three laughing. He listened as it got closer until his legs were suddenly splashed.

"Oi! You prick, I just got fully dry!" Joel bolted to stand up, glaring at Jimmy. He found Lizzie instead and immediately apologized, grabbing her hands to help her onto the boulder.

Lizzie insisted she and Joel make dinner for everyone. So Tommy sat on the floor in front of the fireplace, letting his wings continue to dry as Jimmy checked in on his staff and Scott lounged on the sofa. He was trying to read, but his eyes kept finding Tommy's wings. They were a mess. His own weren't much better by now, but the state of Tommy's was painful. He had no clue when the last time he preened them was, and they had to have been itchy.

He focused on Lizzie and Joel's quiet singing to each other as walked up behind Tommy. Scott tried to not be so nervous (why was he nervous?) as he cleared his throat, startling the kid.

"Hi." He smiled. Tommy squinted and looked up at him.

"Hi?"

"Do your wings itch?" Scott asked. Tommy flushed and looked away. He was embarrassed— Scott realized. He probably would be too.

"A little."

"When's the last time they were preened?"

Tommy refused to look at Scott and answer. Scott pressed his lips into a line.

"Can I—?"

"You don't have to. It's fine. I'll do it myself later." Tommy mumbled, putting his chin in his hand.

Scott moved to sit on his knees behind the kid. "They're making me itchy" He admitted. Tommy didn't reply, but he did open his wings up for Scott. And Scott got to work.

It was always methodic to preen. It was intimate too. Scott was careful as he pulled pinfeather wax apart, gently guiding loose feathers to fall, and straightening the ones out of place. He gathered dust, gently got rid of debris and even some moss left from the water. Tommy stayed quiet for most the time. Any time he did make a noise, it was pointed to be accidental and was normally a small "chirp" that neither of them acknowledged. Tommy was relaxing though. He slowly leaned back into Scott and seemed to be starting to fall asleep. Scott had relaxed too, far from the anxious mess he had gone back and forth from being. Maybe because here he was, Tommy falling asleep in his hands as Scott was trusted to clean Tommy's wings.

So; maybe they'd be okay after all.