Hidden objects

I sit up slowly, my hand pushing soft fabric away and rubbing my eyes before looking around in my confused haze. A few things run through my head mainly confusion as to where I was and what was going on. The first thing I notice as my vision clears and the fog in my brain clears, is the pure white wolf with glowing violet eyes sitting on a small rug too small for his large size, in between the cot of a bed that I'm currently lying on, and a large wardrobe, staring at me. Poor guy had barely any room to stretch much less lie down comfortably however his intense gaze made me squirm before I forced myself to look away and around the small room cautious to keep the wolf in my sight. At the foot of the bed, is a door that leads to who knows where and directly across from the door a large floor-ceiling window. Behind me to my right is another door to a small bathroom. My gaze returned to the bright pristine white wolf and his glowing violet eyes. In the back of my mind somewhere beneath the fog I knew this was not normal for a wolf to have violet eyes much less ones that glowed. The wolf and I stare at one another for a bit before he gets up and speaks. Actual words coming from an animal. 

“Quit wasting time and get geared up, ” my jaw drops and my eyes widen in pure shock. I was dumbfounded. He looked at me amused then sat by the window and tilted his head at the closet indicating I should look inside. I swung my legs around and get up still eyeing the wolf with cautious fascination. I turn my attention to the wardrobe glancing back at the wolf for confirmation to continue. His only indication was to continue staring at me with those violet eyes. With some effort I look away. Intricate designs carved into the plain oak doors of the wardrobe depicting a wolf hunting a caribou. I give a quick glance at the white mass of muscle and fur and teeth. He was curled in front of the window basking in the sunlight, not giving a care in the world. I grab the handle to the cabinets door, and pull. My eyes widen. 

“This will be the battle of your life!” gamers from around the world cheer excited as the creator of... 

I gasp as I return to reality. The wolf is up at my side with a whine of concern. Whatever that was it had to do with why I was here. I lean my head against the other cabinet door, staring at the contents. Standing up straight, I pull the black leather scabbard out, one of the many weapons hanging on hooks. Studying the scabbard, feeling the leather and the intricate etches in silver. A black shoulder strap extend from the top of the scabbard and loop with a buckle at the end of the strap.

“The buckle is so you can attach it to the belt with your quiver, ” I glance at the wolf who still stands at my side before I study the quiver belt and notice the other part of the clip. Good to know. The blade slid out without a sound, glistened in the sunlight with a purple tint. It felt like an extension of my arm, it had to be made of a mixture of steel and titanium, based on how light it was. Running along the center of the blade, intricate swirls, and vine-like etching painted in violet. Returning the blade back into its scabbard I pull the bow and quiver belt out. The recurve bow made of willow wood also had etching in the wood. A flexible metal plate followed the curve of the bow protecting and reinforcing the bow structure. The bowstring was finely tuned and stretched to a perfect tension. The arrows made of a titanium, white feathers with black striations horizontal, the end where the arrowhead was supposed to be ended in a point. In the quiver a total of 15 light-weight arrows. The weapons weren't the only thing in the wardrobe, thick black leggings, dark purple long sleeve shirt, knee-high black boots with grey laces, black fingerless climbing gloves, a black mask that clips at the back of the neck, and a black cloak that reaches to the ground. The wolf looks to me and pivots around to return to basking in the sun. The bathroom wasn't as exciting. Sink, toilet, shower. Simple. Something told me I should leave outside for last, so I grabbed the gear and close the bathroom door.

The wolf whistled. Everything fit comfortably, the sword laid across my back diagonally (there's another clip on the very end to attach the scabbard more securely) the strap sat diagonally across my chest with little loops for other nick nacks, the belt was cinched tightly around my waist the quiver on my left hip, the gloves fit perfectly, and the cloak I've decided not to wear. 

“Now you have officially joined the server, ” the white wolf said standing in front of me.

“What do you mean?” server? What does he mean by server? He looked at me with a confused look. 

“Server, ” he said again.

“Server. You've joined a game, a battle royal game kinda, ” he scratched his side with his back foot. 

“The tournament of a lifetime! Anyone who wishes to join! You'll be given a partner of any animal you choose, and a select amount of gear. The idea of this game... Get as much xp as you can, ” 

He looked at me as I sat gasping. I sat on the bed trying to remember everything that's happened. Nothing. Not a single shred of memory other than the two I've had. I shook my head and got up.

“What now?” I looked at him as he shrugged. I looked around for anything I missed and as I went to the door something caught my eye. Something green and shiny. I pushed the bed away from the wall and underneath was a small box holding five pearls of green, swirls of black inside. I picked one up and studied it trying to decipher what it was. I picked all five up and looked inside the wardrobe. There's all kinds of secrets in this tiny room. A drawer at the bottom of the cabinet held satchel of small enough size I could put the pearls inside and attach it to my waist. 

“By the way, I'm Phade, ” the white wolf looked at me with excitement. I smiled and rubbed his ears which he immediately started wagging his tail harder and smiled. 

“Im... Ghost, ” I decided to go with something that wasn't my actual name. I got up shoved the bed back into place and stood at the door. Time to see what's in store for us. 

Competition

 “Be careful, ” Phade and I just stepped out into the hallway. It was dead quiet, not a single sound. Doors similar to mine lined both sides of the hallway, three to my left, three to my right, and four in front. At the ends of the hallway, it turned. Phade quietly moved down the hall to my right. His tail flicked forward and I followed. Scones sat in between the doors lighting the hallway with an eerie light, the shadows where the light didn't reach as far allowed me to stay hidden most of the time. Phade kept going for three doorways before stopping. I crept up behind him quietly. His ears were perked, his body rigid, his attention focused on the open double doorway ahead. Sunlight lit up the opposite wall and some of the hallway. Voices echoed and carried to us in the wind. The sound of steel clashing, and the sounds of fighting. Curious, I made my way to the doorway and looked outside into a courtyard where people heavily geared and armed to the teeth hung out and chatted with friends under a tree or trees. Several of the players were dueling in the middle of the yard, sunlight glinting off their weapons and armor. What caught my attention (there were two: all of the players were boys) was the hooded green figure with blond hair, green eyes making his way towards me, looking me dead in the eye. His hand hovered close by to his sword on his back. I backed away slowly then started running. Phade followed as he saw the reason I was running. Four doorways down the hallway branched out. Right led down a dark hallway, left led to another hallway like the first except two sets of double doorways were on the right side. I ran left and disappeared into the first double doors. I entered a large room, filled with tables and chairs. The floor had three levels going down, each level was a ring was about 20ft that wrapped around the entire room. From the double doors to the wall opposite them the room was at least 60ft and the room was maybe 80ft, 90ft from left wall to right wall. The first levels ceiling is lower than the center rings. I jogged to the second layer and turned around. Sure enough the “ceiling” was actually a ledge that jutted out for 15ft before slanting upwards the rest of five feet. At 20ft intervals stone pillars reached to the 40ft ceilings. The pillars had rods sticking out for little bowls where the fires could be lit. Which means I can climb the pillars and up onto the ledge and behind a pillar. Quickly I hopped onto a table and grabbed the rods, and prayed they held. Hopping up I managed to get a foothold and pull myself up onto the ledge. I looked down to see how to get Phade up. He appeared next to me and I started in surprise, but before I could ask the doors opened and light spilled into the dark room. I pressed myself against the wall and crouched. Then glanced at Phade, who was straight up white and his eyes glowed. I started panicking. Then Phade’s fur changed to black. My bow appeared in my hand, sleek and ready to fire. The hooded boy walked in looking all around the room. He slowly moved around the tables his whole body tense. At the raised dais he paused, looking towards the door. Another figure walked in (another boy) wearing some kind of pig head for a mask and a red cape with white fluf around his shoulders, his hair was long and pink, tied back loosly. A crown sat atop his head, jewels glistening in the light. A sword of similar make to mine hung at his waist. He wore a white poet shirt (pirate shirt), black trousers, and dark maroon knee-high boots. His whole style says pirate/dark ages. He shifted on his feet.

“Jacob and his goons went after Tyler and Tom again, ” his voice was deep and authoritative. He looked around then asked, “What are you doing here?” he looked over his shoulder as a shadow blocked light from the doorway. Both the green hooded player, and the caped guy turned. No words were said but they both started running. Curiosity got the better of me and I slowly got down, and followed. Carefully staying in the shadows I followed the three men to the courtyard. Staying at the doors I watched several people fighting, the green hooded boy pulled his sword out with extreme ease and the other one with the pig mask did the same. Several people on the edge of the fight stepped back, some with bruises and cuts. 

“Get off of me!!” a smaller voice cried out at the center. On the edge of the fight, tense stood an older man with blonde hair, green eyes, a green and white striped fishing hat with beads hanging off it, green vest and a black coat, grey slacks. His entire body was tense and he had a sword in his hand. Holding him back was a taller boy with a yellow sweater, a red beanie over loose brown hair, brown eyes, and a black jacket. Both were tense and anxious, watching carefully. The fight broke up and the two I were following pulled several people off two young boys. Both around my age, one blonde hair blue eyes, read checkard sweater, and khakis, the other wore a green dress shirt his collar stood up, his jean pants were muddied and had grass stains, his red-brown hair was all over the place and his brown eyes wide with fear. 

“Tyler you ok?” the blonde hair boy helped up his friend who I'm guessing is Tyler his accent definitely British. Tyler got up and nodded slowly. Kid definitely wasn't ok. 

“Anyone who touches Tyler or Tom again gets a sword through there skulls!” pig head (that's what I'm calling him for now) yelled pointing his sword at one of the glaring boys.

“Especially you, ” his voice was very low as he said this. Everyone seem extremely tense and Tom was getting checked by the yellow sweater boy. I could hear Tom say he was fine. Tyler though looked pretty shaken up and had several bruises on his face and arms. The green hooded guy gathered his friends which were many, and they left. I disappeared and went back to the dining room. No sooner than I entered the door did a bell ring and voices started making their way towards the dining room. I quickly climbed the pillars up onto the ledge and Phade followed. We sat there while everyone came in. Trays of food appeared in front of each of the boys as they sat down. The green hooded guy, pig head, Tyler, Tom, the two boys who had been standing by as the fight went on, a fox kid, a black figure with a devils tail and little horns, and a few others to name latter. They all sat down at one of the tables on the left side of the dais next to a wall, Tubbo looking better and more cheerful. Tommy sat with Tubbo and they talked and talked. I walked along the balcony towards the ledge above them. I sat and listened figuring out each of their names. 

“Drake took them idiots out without a problem!” Tom 

“Im just glad I'm alive, ” Tyler

“I don't understand why they attacked you two, ” black devil.

“Because they're easy targets Bad, ” green hoody replied, so black devil is Bad.

“If they don't leave us alone I'm going to kill them all until they have to restart, ” grumbled pig head.

“Tech is the one with the pig head mask, ” whispered Phade. I looked at him and he replied with, “His familiar told me, ” 

“Where is his familiar?” I looked around for a boar or pig assuming that was his familiar. Finding none I looked back at Phade. “His familiar right now is a mink hiding in his cloak, ” Phade changed into a raven. I nodded and he flew down and landed on a rod sticking out of the beams which held bowls used for the fires that lit up the room. All of a sudden my vision blurred and then I was looking at the group below. I was looking through Phades eyes. I shook my head and it stopped. 

For an hour I listened to their conversations remembering names. By the time everyone was leaving I knew all their names. Philip is the tall blonde with the green and white striped fishing hat, Wilburt is the tall brown-haired one with a red beanie, Drake is the tall blonde with a green hoodie, Tech is the tall king with pink hair and pig mask, Bad is the black devil, Fet is the fox, Sam has black hair with a white cloth around his forehead, George is colorblind has brown hair with big round glasses. All of them are around the same age except Tom and Tyler who have to be around 16. Phade flew back up to me with an apple in his claws after everyone left. He transformed into his white wolf form and snuggled against me. I rubbed his ears while I ate the apple. Eventually, we both fell asleep content and warm. 

Trouble

 The sound of the diner bell wakes Phade and I up from our slumber. I sit up and rub my eyes, while Phade scratches his side. We both yawn and stretch. In the middle of stretching my arms the doors open to the dining hall. I swing my legs up and I'm on feet hiding behind the beams, looking down as three boys walk in chatting. Behind them other groups of three and four take a seat at their spots eating pancakes, eggs, bacon, ceral even, whatever you would normally eat for breakfast. Watching from above I start counting how many boys come in. At least 50 to maybe 100 boys. Fuckkkk. Phade looks up at me feeling my unease. Dream and his friends seat themselves at the table below me. Tubbo and Tommy don't seem to be found at the moment which concerns me. I start moving towards the ledge above the door when Tubbo and Tommy walk in. Immediately another group of boys (the ones beating up the two best friends yesterday) come up behind them. Tubbo looks nervous and Tommy has a knowing look on his face. My bow appears in my hand and I draw an arrow subconsciously. I can barely hear them and Dream and his friends haven't noticed yet. I pull another arrow out and put it in my mouth. Bringing the bow up I take aim. The bullies have started pushing Tubbo and Tommy around. Things were now getting heated. A tall red hair boy throws the first punch a sneer on his face as Tommy hits the floor. Tubbo cries out and Technonblade turns around, then jumps to his feet sword drawn. A dark haired boy kicks Tommy while another blonde kid drags Tubbo back. The red head kid barely raises his arm to strike Tubbo before the first arrow slams into his shoulder, the second arrow slamming into the dark-haired kid kicking Tommy. I pull a third arrow out and fire, the fourth followed close behind one pinning the blonde kid to the beam behind him, the other arrow fly straight past another kids face into the beam. The entire room went silent as everyone began looking around for where the arrows came from. I stood there rigid, anger coursing through my veins. Someone pointed at me. Phade nudged me, and I turned running along the ledge keeping to the dark. I jumped down and looked over my shoulder before running out the door. I looked for somewhere to go, and the door opened behind me. I looked behind me in surprise to see Technoblade standing there. He reaches out with his hand. I retreat backwards. 

“Wait” his voice soft, he took a step forward. I turn and run, Techno on my heels. Phade growls and runs along side me. Looking over my shoulder I see a boar follow close behind Techno it's tusks sharp and gleaming. Just get to your room. I was now running down my hall, one door, two doors, three doors, my room! I grabbed that door handle and yanked the door open. I slam the door and lock it. Phades on the other side growling. 

“Im not gonna... I'm not gonna hurt you, ” Phade growled when Techno took a step forward, who then stepped back. “Please come out, ” he asked softly. I leaned against the door breathing hard. I helped his friends, would he want to hurt me? What's he going to do? Maybe...

“Phade watch him, ” I slowly opened the door peeking out watching as his cape swished when he moved back. Phades white tail appeared then all of him. My hands shook, my heart beat faster until I thought it might stop. The door was open half way, I was standing half in half out. 

“Techno!” I closed the door and pushed the bed against the door. Outside Techno let out a sigh. Phade disappeared and repeared as a white Python slithering under my door. He wrapped himself around my wrist his head still looking under the door. I looked through Phades eyes watching.

“You ok?” Dream stopped at Techno and looked at the door. He pointed, and Techno nodded. 

“Hows Tommy and Tubbo?” 

“Tommys got a few bruises, Tubbo unscathed, ” Dream rubbed his neck before continuing.

“Jacob is pissed. Him and his goons are preparing to come at us again. Marina...” Dream paused.

“Which ones Marina?” 

“Fundies partner, ” Techno nodded. 

“Marina is spying, and Bad has found another room. Some kind of ball room, ” Techno looked at Dream in surprise. “We’ve searched every part of this place no way we missed a massive ball room, ” Dream shrugged. 

“Right now it dosn't matter, grab your stuff. Go right instead of left towards the arena, ” Deeam pointed towards the dining hall then towards the wall of doors. 

“You know where the stairs are?” Techno nodded. “Go straight and follow the right wall, ” Dream demonstrated, putting his shoulder to the wall. It got quiet, then Dream nodded and jogged down the hall disappearing to the right. Techno watched then came to the door. 

“Your welcome to join us, ” the invite was genuine, I waited listening to his retreating footsteps. Phade slithered into the room and transformed into his wolf form, my vision returning. I leaned my head against the door thinking. 

“He seemed ok. Don't think they saw me, ” so they weren't faking. Jacob... Redhead boy? I think he's the one I've... Yes! Techno pointed at him yesterday about touching Tommy and Tubbo! He must be causing a lot of problems. I searched the room while I thought about Technos offer. I got up and moved the bed, underneath another pearl sat in a little box. Bingo. I searched the rest of the room and found nothing. I searched the cabinet. Another quiver of arrows hung on a hook. Underneath a small bag and inside a shiny golden apple. I pocketed it knowing it would be useful at some point. Looking around I made a decision. I braided my hair, grabbed the cloak in the closet, swung it around and put the hood up. Phade changed into a raven and landed on my shoulder. I checked that my quiver of arrows were covered, and entered the hall cautiously. Several boys were in the corridor leaving from the dining hall chatting as they walked. Some barely gave me a first glance much less a second. I stayed to the sides of the hall, keeping my head down as I made my way towards the dining hall. Dream said go right instead of left. I looked right and slowly walked down the dark hall. Immediately to my right was a flight of stairs. Once passed the stairs I pressed my shoulders to the wall and walked slowly. Phade hopped across the ground as he followed. Something gave. The wall I was leaned against moved just slightly, so I pressed harder. A hidden doorway lead down a small hall. At the end of the hall the sound of voices drifted to me, and natural light lit up the small hall. I looked over my shoulder once and stepped inside closing the massive stone wall back into place. 

The small archway led to a massive room. The floor was polished marble, black veins stood out against the white and grey marbling. The walls were made of some kind of light blue-grey stone pillars, and in between, wood paneling. At the very end was a large fireplace, lit and burning bright. Massive floor-to-ceiling windows allowed natural sunlight in, the windows on both long sides of the room. The ceiling stretched high. Intricate woodwork along the walls gave detail to the plain walls, also providing plenty of handholds and footholds in case I need to run or hide. Dream and his friends sat with all their gear chatting by the fire laughing and smiling. I counted one person was missing. Slowly I realize someones behind me. Spinning around, I pull an arrow out. Techno is standing behind me, a gentle smile on his face, his arms crossed and his pig mask is gone. His nose and chin pointed, his eyes black with white centers. His sword still at his waist. 

“Glad you came, ” he held his hand out. Unsure of what to do I just nodded. 

“I wanted to thank you for saving Tommy and Tubbo face to face, ” he looked at the group smiling. 

“I don't like bullies, ” I replied quietly. He studied me for a minute. 

“How old are you?” I looked at him confused. I replied, “17, Why?” 

“How long have you been shooting a bow?” I looked down at the arrow in my hand and put it away. 

“I don't know, ” I looked down, I couldn't remember anything except for yesterday morning. Techno crouched down and looked at me. Tubbo laughed loudly. I looked up watching, thinking. Techno stood up and stepped into the room in front of me. 

“I'm Technoblade, ” he offered his hand out to me. I took it, letting him pull me along towards the group. 

“I'm Clare, ” he smiled. 

“Nice to meet you, Clare, ” I smiled, at his grin. The others noticed Techno then me. Dream stood up and walked to meet us. Tubbo and Tommy watched curiously, while the others sort of gawked at the sight of me. Phade transformed into a black wolf, intimidating especially when his glowing violet eyes settled on a member of the group. He stayed close to my side, I rested a hand on his back for comfort. 

“Dream, this is Clare. Clare this is Dream, ” we shook hands.

“Impressive archery skills, ” four metal shaft, white and black feathered arrows appear in his hands cleaned and carefully wrapped. I collect the arrows and nod in appreciation.

“This is Fundy, Bad, Sapnap, George...” Techno introduced me to the rest of the group. Before Techno is able to introduce me to Philza and Wilbur, instead of shaking my hand Philza takes my hand pulls me into an embrace. The rest of the group chuckle. For a second I'm surprised then I chuckle. 

“Thank you for saving my son, ” Philza sets me down and shakes my hand. Wilbur shakes my hand and thanks me for saving his little brother.

“So... Wilbur, Technoblade, and Tommy are Philzas kids?”  I ask looking at Dream. He nods. Tommy shakes my hand and Tubbo looks at me sheepishly. I mess with his hair. 

“Ohhhh this is amazinggggg, I'm so glad youuuuu saved themmmm, ” Phade is wacking his tail happily his tongue hanging out as Bad rubs his belly. I laugh, as Bad keeps rubbing his belly and Phade starts murmuring happily. Tubbo pulls a ball out and his familiar, and Bads familiar transform into dogs and Tubbo tosses the ball. All three dogs (wolf) look up ears perked, and bolt after the ball. I shake my head as Phade and his new friends play keep away. Wilbur pulls a guitar out and starts playing a beautiful silly song. Philza and Bad start dancing to the song, and Techno removes his cloak. He starts dancing and I join in. Eventually everyone's dancing and singing, while the familiars play in the background. Sapnap ends up falling and everyone started laughing. I felt safe, surprisingly since I'm completely surrounded by boys. Wilbur changes it up and plays a more country-styled song. Wilbur plays a softer slower song, and Techno takes my hand and spins me around. The song takes over and then I'm in a light blue dress, dancing with a king. Not Techno but a dark-haired man with cobalt eyes. He fades away and I'm back in the now on the floor my head pounding, and Phades dog breath in my face. The worry in his eyes confuses me and I blink hard looking around. 

“What happened?” I sit up and an extremely sharp pain slices through my mind. Someone gently pushes me back down as the darkness takes over. 

Revealing Secret Identities

 Something slams into my chest hard. I jerk awake with a gasp sweat dripping down my face, my heart returning to normal. Sitting on top of me is Phade his tail wagging ready to go. 

“Get off, ” I grumble sitting up stretching. Last night seemed like a dream, actually the last two days feel like a dream, but with Phade right there tells me it's not. I pull the covers off and swing my legs around, stretching again and stifling a yawn. I grab a towel and some clothes, a short sleeve grey shirt, some black leggings, and my knee high boots, and hop into the shower. About 20 minutes later I step out of the shower dry myself off and get dressed. Under the sink is a hair dryer and a curling iron, extra toilet paper and a few other girl things. Once I had dryed my long dark brown hair, I brush my teeth and brush my hair, pulling it into a ponytail. I gear up check under the bed grab the extra pearl, check for another golden apple. There was none, guess it's a once around. I buckle my belt, pull the strap tighter around my chest securing my sword, checking my arrows and bow. Everything in place I grab my gloves, mask, and cloak. I go to leave but decide to leave the cloak. Get ready Clare. This could get heated very fast. I open the door and step out. No one was around at the moment. Guess everyone's already at the dining hall. 

“Lets go Phade, ” 

“You sure about revealing yourself to the rest of the boys?” Phade had an unease look. But I was sure about this. Technoblade and Dream and the rest of the group would support and protect me if things got really bad. We made our way to the dining hall. As we got closer voices drifted down the hall from the dining hall. For a few seconds thoughts of doubt make me hesitate, taking a deep breath I open the doors. The dining room was a step lower than the rest of the building. The dining hall was full of boys, every table had at least 15, each with some kind of blade, and projectile weapon, almost all of them had full armor. The closest table had 11 boys laughing and talking, their familiars were the first to take notice of me. Then all 11 of them stopped talking a few at a time as they noticed and then they saw the arrows. The room began getting quiet as they realized that the room was becoming dead silent. Wilbur and Philza turned around, Tubbo and Tommy nodded, and Techno and Dream got up hands hovering near weapons. The last table to take notice was the group of boys who were glaring at Dreams table. Jacobs table was on the other side of the room. When Dreams table all looked in one direction they turned and looked. Jacob which I'm guessing is the redhead with a bandage wrapped around his arm, was tall and muscular, and whose face was turning a brighter shade of red than his hair. 

“You! You shot me!” the entire table got up angry. Phade growled loudly, loud enough for them to know I wasn't alone. Jacob unsheathed his sword, and his friends followed in example. My bow appeared in my hand an arrow in my other, Techno was on his feet making his way slowly to me. Dream followed opposite side of the room around to the dais to where Jacobs table is at. Wilbur stood up his familiar changing into a wolf, Philza followed, then the rest. Their familiars changing into wolves, crouched slowly making their way down the isles of tables towards Jacobs table. Tension filled the room, some trying to decide whether to leave or not. Jacob pointed at me with his sword.

“This is war. If you aren't in the arena, ” he paused swinging his sword around pointing at Techno, Dream and the others.

“All of you will die, ” I actually laughed. Jacobs face got redder, while the others looked at me confused. 

“If we aren't in the arena how do you expect to kill us?” I tilted my head at him.

“If I can hide up there, ” I pointed to the ledge above me. 

“Then I can hide anywhere. These halls are simple but more confusing than an open arena, ” Jacob realized I was right. And that made him even more pissed off. I pointed at Techno, Dream, Bad, Sapnap, Fundy, George, Tubbo, Tommy, Wilbur, Philza, and then at their familiars.

“I'm not alone. An arena yeah, hallways, hidden doorways, out rooms, stairs ledges... No, ” he snarled angrily at my words.

“I may be a girl... But I'm not stupid nor vulnerable, ” the room was quiet, no one moved, and tension was so thick, wouldn't be surprised if someone fainted. Jacob sat down took a deep breath and glared at me before plastering a pleasant fake smile onto his face.

“Enjoy your food, it will be your last time in this room girl, ” I looked him dead in the eye and saw a flash of fear before he turned around and went back to eating. The rest of the room did the same though giving me sideways glances or whispered to one another about the whole ordeal. The whole team (Dream Techno and the familiars) stepped back and went back to their table. I followed and sat down next to Techno. Phade laid down and watched Jacobs table. A tray appeared before me, waffles, fruit, eggs, bacon, and biscuts, and a steak for Phade, whose whole attention was focused on Jacobs table. I rubbed his head, feeling the tension leave, and eventually, he ate the steak. 

“Glad you came to eat with us, ” Techno said as he ate like a gentleman, with his knife and fork and napkin in his shirt. The others laughed and chatted while I stuffed my face. I ate the waffles not realizing I was so hungry until I had the first bite. I tried to eat slowly but hunger took over. I was done before anyone else, and everyone gaped at my empty plate which then refilled. My eyes widened, and Techno laughed. 

“Eat up! Hahaha, ” he chuckled as I ate another helping of fruit. After my second helping, we chatted for a while. The dining hall began slowly emptying of people and Jacob. 

“So Clare how come your in an all-boys server.” Bad asked and everyone looked at me. Looking down I tried to remember what I was doing there. 

“I don't know. I woke up in a little room with Phade looking at me. Once I was dressed in all the stuff in the wardrobe I went to explore. I found the courtyard and realized there were no girls, and then Dream saw me so I ran into here, ” I shrugged pointing upwards. 

“Phade and I slept up there until the morning bell woke us up, then I shot at Jacobs group. Ran off to my room, looked around the room a bit more, and found these, ” I pulled the pearls out handing one to Dream whose eyes widened at the sight of them. 

“Where did you find these?” he asked still shocked. 

“A small box under my bed. There were five the first time I found them. Everyday a new one appears, ” I shrugged not understanding. 

“These are ender pearls. When you throw one they teleport you to where ever the pearl lands, ” he handed it back as I stared at the glassy green orb. 

“How many do you have?” Fundy inquired his ears twitching. I pulled the seven pearls out and laid them onto the table. Bad laughed. 

“No way, ” Tubbo whispered. Tommy just whistled, and George stared while Sapnap picked one up studying it. Philza who was sitting next to me messed up my hair with a smile. 

“Good job kiddo, ” he said, the others nodded in agreement. 

“Question is, do they disappear once you use them or do you get it back?” I looked at him pondering the question. Tommy picked one up. 

“One way to find out, ” he threw the pearl as if he was skipping rocks, and the pearl flew across the room then landed onto one of the tables. Tommy poofed and appeared onto the table. I stood out of my seat as he disappeared and repeared. He stumbled in surprise but caught himself. He shook his head, and then I looked down. In my hand appeared a pearl. 

“Yes, ” I said quietly.

“What?” Dream asked and everyone looked at me and at the pearl in my hand. 

“Ladies and gentlemen we are golden, ” Tubbo said with a big smile on his face. 

“Speaking of golden, ” I pulled the golden apple out and tossed it in the air. 

“No way!!” George, Sapnap, and Dream said at the same time. I smiled. 

“That's a golden apple! Cut a tiny slice out of that and any injures ya got go away, ” Bads familiar said. Phade got up and nudged me. 

“You got a curious onlooker, ” Phade whispered pointing with his snout. I looked over in the direction he was pointing. He had blonde hair with green eyes, tall and lithe. He noticed me watching and disappeared. 

“I'll be right back, ” I packed up the pearls and the apple. The others looked at me weird and went back to chatting Dream talking about how they could use the pearls efficiently, Techno watched me. My whole attention was on the blonde. I followed him out the door looking right and left. A shadow disappeared around the corner to my left. I jogged over to the stairs and heard him go up. I followed quickly behind. 

“I don't like this Clare, ” 

“I don't think he's part of Jacobs group Phade calm down, ” ignoring Phades warning we went up to the top floor. The top floor is similar to the bottom floor except above the dining hall is a library. The top floor was lit by skylights instead of torches. The blonde disappeared into the library, and I was close behind. Phade was cautious and whined quietly but continued to follow me. The library was lit by skylights and soft glowing stones in stands at the end of each shelf. The library was a maze of shelves and books. I heard soft footprints and walked down an aisle of books. At the end, the path split two ways left and right. The sound of footsteps behind me though made my decision.

“Going some where, ” I pulled my sword out and faced this new threat. Two boys, twins, tall and muscular, armed to the teeth. The bookshelves behind me and around me were going to make this difficult. 

“Give us the pearls and the apple and you can leave unharmed, ” both the twins advanced. Two more people appeared one on each side of me. Phade growled, and I tried to find a way out of this. I sheathed my sword and everyone relaxed a bit. 

“I'll give you one pearl, ” I replied hoping they would except knowing they wouldn't. But this allowed me to free up my hands without suspicion. 

“No, all of them, ” the twin's shot my offer down. With a sigh, my bow appeared in my hand. They tensed shields appearing in their hands, ready to deflect any shot. With a grin, I go to grab an arrow and the boys put their shields up but instead of grabbing an arrow I pull a pearl out and throw it high over their heads. The pearl landed and everything went dark and then a wall appears and I collide with that. Shaking off surprise I bolt for the door and yank on the knob. The door didn't open. 

“Shit!” with a growl I spin around Phade appearing at my side. 

“We don't want to hurt you. Please just give us the pearls, ” the four boys stood ready. The blonde was behind the twin's uncertainty in his eyes. I put the bow away and pull my blade out. 

“Sorry gentlemen but I'm not giving up my lifeline, ” Phade disappears and reappears in the air before slamming into the biggest twin. With a snarl, I run at the other twin and swing. The other twin puts his shield up and deflects my swing. My sword rebounds off the shield, and the twin jabs at me. I narrowly manage to dodge the attack. Stepping back, I dodge another attack this one from the other boy, the one with black hair. The other twin throws Phade off blood dripping down the bites on his arms and scratches on his chest. Phade slams into the wall with the sound of breaking bones. 

“Phade!!” the twins swing their blades down and I barely manage to put my shield up. The blonde stands their staring at Phades unmoving body. The black-haired kid stabs at me from my left cutting into my skin from behind. With a cry of pain, I shove forward throwing the twins off. I spin around my ponytail whipping around as I swing my blade at him and slice through his arm. Blood spurts everywhere and his familiar leaps at me going for my throat. I slam the hyena into the ground with my shield, breaking something. I can feel the hot blood dripping down my back as I turn around and run over to Phade. 

“Phade? Come on Phade, please don't do this to me, ” Phade lifted his head and whined. Pivoting on my right foot from my crouched position I throw my shield up deflecting a strike from the twin that had thrown Phade. With a snarl, I shove my blade straight into his exposed chest. Blood spurts out and drips down my blade and the light in his eyes fades. I pull the sword out and he drops to the ground. His brother directly behind him looks in shock as orbs of light float up and towards me. His expression changes to hatred and his friend yells as he runs at me. Standing I sidestep his charge and dodge a swipe from the other twin. I slam my elbow into the twin's face and shove the black-haired boy back with my shield. The twin falls with a broken nose, and the dark haired boy flys over Phade and slides across the floor. Sweat drips down my neck and blood continues flowing down my back. Exhasution was beginning to take it's toll as I shoulder my shield and prepare for another attack. The blonde hair boy hasn't moved although his attention is on the dead twin. The second twins nose bleeds it no longer aligned correctly. 

“You will pay for killing him!” his forehead is covered in sweat and there's a massive cruise forming on his face. His shoulder has dropped a half inch and his sword droops. The dark haired boy gets up and regrips his sword. From the corner of my eye, I watch in slow motion as he runs at me. A half second letter he raises his sword and through a downward cut deflects off my shield shattering the blade. The momentum he had gained sent him flying into my shield right after his sword. The jagged end of his sword still against the shield penetrate through flesh and bone, as his body slams into my metal shield. He drops to the floor blood pooling around his body seeping into the blue carpet. The last twin stood there in shock realizing he was alone. The glint of metal caught my eye. A set of keys hung from the dark haired boys belt, in his blood. Picking them up I rattled them in front of the twin blood dripping down my hand. 

“End this now, ” exhaustion is taking over and if he realized I was tired he wouldn't. Conflict flirted across his face. He raised his sword and with a snarl ran at me. I ran at him and half way I sidestepped slamming my shield into his side. He manages to dodge most of the attack and barely clips the edge. Pivoting he came at me again. This time a little more cautiously, aiming right. Blocking his blow, my right arm became numb from the force. Ducking under to the right, I swung slicing into his side. He screamed in pain, swinging for his head he blocks it with his shield and jabs his sword slicing into my arm. Gritting my teeth I pull out and barely yank my head away as his sword cuts my cheek, shoots at my head. I drop my sword and pull an arrow out. And slam the metal shaft under his chest plate and up into his heart. His eyes widen in realization. His attempt to back out and pull the arrow out end in him collapsing in his brothers pool of blood. Sweat drips down my face down my back and arms and legs. Exhasution gripped my entire body, my sword arm shaking, my shield arm dropped to the floor. 

“Phade, ” was all I could manage. He didn't get up he didn't move he... He's gone. I stroke his fur one more time before getting up. The blonde haired kid stood there watching wide-eyed. There was no way I could carry Phade and if I didn't leave I would bleed out. I made the hard decision. 

“I'm sorry Phade, ” I whispered, I stood shakily and walked to the door using the wall as a support. The blonde watched his eyes wide in fright. I unlock the door, and pull it open. 

“Don't ruin him, ” I said to the blonde. Looking up he looked me in the eye and nodded. Slowly I made my way to the stairs, blood dripping down several cuts, bruises began forming where my shield had hit, and where I had been slammed. I could barely stand, barely focus. It's a miracle I didn't fall down the stairs, but I managed, one at a time until I was at the bottom. I managed to get to the secret door and with the little bit of strength I had left, pushed the door open and limped into the ballroom. Dream and the rest were there dancing and singing. 

“Clare!?” Techno was there in an instant catching me as I fell. 

“What happened!?” 

“Phade...” was all I could say, tears ran down my cheeks. I let go and fell into darkness let the hurt in. He was gone and my heart broke. 

“I'm so so sorry Phade, ” 

Fight or Flight?

 “Clare?” 

The light from the rising sun filtered in through curtains that had been pulled over the floor-ceiling windows. Techno was looking down on me from where I lay, Bad next to me with a needle in his hand. I sat up too fast and searing pain lanced up my back and side. I cried out in pain tears running down my cheeks. 

“Push her down Techno before she hurts herself, ” Bad said worry in his voice. Techno gently pushed me back down, and Philza, Wilbur, Tommy, and Tubbo appeared in my vision. 

“Is she gonna be ok Bad?” Philza asked worry quavering his voice. Everyone looked worried, Tubbo started talking.

“Clare was it, Jacob?” his voice quiet the others also quieted and looked at me. I shook my head. 

“What happened to Phade?” Wilbur asked looking around. Before I could reply Tubbo gasped. Sapnap just walked into the ballroom, Phade in his arms limp. George followed slowly behind his sword drawn. 

“Phade, ” I whispered sadly. Sapnap laid Phade down next to me, allowing me to stroke his fur. Tears dripped down my cheeks, my heart breaking to pieces. The others stared at his broken white shape, Bad looking down trying to focus on cleaning the cut on my side. Tubbo looked away and Tommy comforted him. Wilbur stroked Phades head and scratched behind his ears. Techno gripped my hand in his. George jumped up suddenly.

“The apple!” George yelled looking up from Phades broken body and scrambled for my stuff. He pulled the bag of pearls out and opened the satchel. A golden apple gripped in his hands glinted. My eyes widened my jaw dropped. I tried sitting up and again sharp pain streaked up my body. Techno pushed me gently down. Sapnap grabbed the apple and a knife and slowly cut a tiny sliver from the golden orb. He pulled the slice out and carefully opened Phades mouth. George grabbed a canteen of water and poured some water down Phades snout as Sapnap put the slice of apple into his mouth. Everyone stared hopefully watching, praying he would get up again. I watched wide-eyed, tears in my eyes. His ear twitched. 

“Phade!” I got up ignoring the extreme pain pushing Bad away, crawling until I was in front of Phade. I put my hands on his chest, and put my head down near his nose. I concentrated on listening feeling. There! The soft puff of air, and the slight rise of his chest. I ignored the slight trickle of blood running down my back and cradled his head. Humming and singing softly I rocked back and forth eyes closed and tears running down my cheeks. 

“Clare, ” Phade licked my hand gently while I hugged him close.

“Phade, ” Bad gently pulled me away from Phade and laid me down again. He began stitching my side wound, cleaning it, and wrapping it. 

“You both need rest, ” he said as he finished with me. Moving around Techno he checked on Phade feeling gently for broken bones. 

“Phade will be fine the apple has healed the worst of the wounds, ” Dream stood up. 

“Sapnap, George, Fundy, Tommy, and Tubbo, go to everyone's dorm room search them and grab anything useful. We're getting the hell out of here. Watch out for Jacobs group, ” they nodded and geared up disappearing into the hall. Techno pulled a blanket over me and Phade, before standing up and grabbing his sword and shield. 

“Ill be back, ” 
“Techno. Jacob didn't do it, a different group who wanted the pearls, ” Techno looked at me, nodded and disappeared after the five. A few minutes later the morning bell rang. Dream leaned against the wall next to me, cleaning my sword and sharpening it, while Bad cleaned up the blood and water all over the place, Wilbur played his guitar and Philza stared outside.

“Clare, can you tell me what happened exactly how it happened?” Dream looked at me. I looked over at Phade thinking. I laid back and started telling Deam what had happened starting with seeing the blonde boy. By the time I was done telling Dream everything I had remembered he looked at me with newfound respect. Bad just watched from his sitting position playing with his bat familiar. 

“Whats your familiars name?” I asked.

“Mines Constellation, Cally for short, Bads familiar is Halo, Wilburs familiar is a white parrot Amilia, and Philzas familiar is an eagle Harris, ” Dreams familiar kept in the form of a boa constrictor who slithered over and curled on top of Phade, who didn't seem to mind. Bads familiar Halo seemed more concerned about the sun. Halo decided to change into a tiny fluffy dog. Harris hopped over to me and showed off his feathers. Amilia just sat on Wilburs shoulder quietly. The sound of the stone door opened and Techno walked in with something in his hand. Tommy followed behind jumping excitedly. 

“I found a secret passage!” Tommy jumped excitedly. 

“Did I miss something? What's going on?” I asked confused looking from Techno to Dream. 

“Were looking for a way out. Jacob has started training his boys hard, ” Dream replied.

“He's preparing for war, ” Philza said. My eyes widened in fear, even though we were powerful opponents Jacob had more people. Techno knelt down in front of me and opened his palm. A green glassy orb with black shadows swirling inside sat in his hand. I collected the pearl and looked at him. He sat down next to Phade and scratched his ears watching me. 

“No, ” I said. No no no I'm not running. 

“We can't let Jacob take over, we aren't the only people here and I'm not going to let him bully everyone around, ” standing up, a twinge of pain slows my movement but I ignore it. Grabbing the golden apple I take a small bite from the golden fruit. There's no taste but the feeling of itching crawls across my skin. I watch as my wounds heal extremely quickly. 

“Clare, if you have a plan I’ll follow, ” Dream stood up and handed me my sheathed sword. I look into everyone's faces and hold my scabbard out. 

“I won't ask any of you to help or join me, but I will ask that you think about the other boys' hear, and what Jacob would do without an obstacle to prevent him from taking over, ” I pick up my stuff and began walking towards the door. Stopping at the door, I turn around and look at them.

“Meet me at the arena if you're in. Come prepared. Phade when your ready you can join me or stay behind. I won't force you, ” I push the stone wall open and walk into the hallway. I'm coming for you, Jacob. 

 

In my dorm room, I put my things on the bed, look around to get ready. Undressing I hop into the shower and clean myself off good. Once dried off, I braid my hair, brush my teeth because why not, and take a moment to breathe. The wardrobe had new clothes, a dark purple short-sleeved shirt, black leggings, grey knee-high boots, a dark purple cloak with armor for my shoulders, purple fingerless gloves, and a black mask. Inside the drawer below a complete set of throwing knives. A savage grin appeared on my face at the sight of them. I dressed putting throwing knives, one in each boot, and one on each arm, three on my belt. I pull the bed away and in the box three pearls rest in satin, quickly I put them in the pouch of pearls. My quiver hung at my left waist, my sword on my back, bow in my right-hand shield in my left hand. The pouch of pearls rested in the small of my back along with the golden apple. I was ready with a plan in mind. I pulled the hood of my cloak up and put my mask on. Both my shield and bow disappeared, and I opened my door and stepped into the hallway. Jacob! I'm coming. 

The arena stood behind the dining hall, its massive size was going to make this difficult. Walking through the dark halls to the arena allowed me to form an idea of how we would beat Jacob. My spirits lifted at the sight of my best friend standing again his tail wagging happily, and my friends standing there ready. Technoblade wore his usual, he wore a white poet shirt, black breaches, knee-high maroon boots with gold laces, a red cloak with a pig skull on one shoulder and a gold cord holding the cloak in place, his sword at his waist, and his golden jeweled crown atop his head, his long pink hair tied back. Dream wore his green hoodie hood up, brown leggings, boots, hands wrapped fingers free, his sword on his back, his blonde hair stuck out under the hood and over a white circular mask with a smile drawn on. Wilbur wore his usual yellow sweater, black knee-length coat, brown hair to the side, and a red beanie, a sword hung at his waist. Philza wore a green vest over a white shirt, a black coat like Wilbur, black leggings, boots, his blonde hair pulled back and his green fishing hat was gone, and a sword hung at his waist. Fundy wore a red shirt with a black jacket, the sleeves rolled up, black leggings, boots, and a sword strapped to his back, his tail and ears twitched. Bad wore a red and black hoodie, black leggings, boots, and a sword at his hip, his spade tail whipped around in anticipation. Sapnap wore a white shirt, black jacket, black leggings, boots, a white cloth tied around his forehead keeping his black hair back, a sword strapped to his back. George is wearing a light blue shirt, brown leggings, boots, and a quiver strapped to his back, and a bow in his hand. Tubbo and Tommy wear the same thing, black leggings, boots, have different color shirts (Tubbo wears green, Tommy red), chest plates, quivers strapped to their backs, and bows in hand. Their familiars stand with Phade in the form of wolves. Phade wagged his tail harder and everyone smiled. 

“Phade. Raven, ” Phade ran to me transformed into a raven, and flew up to my arm. I pulled a letter out and handed it to him. “Give this to Jacob, ” Phade cawed and took off with the letter. I walked up to everyone and pulled my mask off. 

“We’re with you Clare, ” Tommy stood taller and nodded. I smiled and messed with his hair. 

“Thank you, ” everyone nodded and Techno stood by me. I pull the satchel of pearls out and hand one to each person. 

“If things get tight, or we have to escape, use it, ” the others nodded putting the pearls somewhere safe and ready at hand. “Heres the plan, ” 

 

Phade returns with a flurry of feathers. He caws and screeches angrily as he lands. 

“Damn jerk!” he said landing on my arm. 

“I'm not even gonna ask, ” I reply checking him for injuries. Nothing stood out, and all his feathers were in place. He hopped down and transformed into a wolf again. 

“Good idea, ” he seethed with anger. I stood in the shadows of the arena watching as people cautiously made their way into the massive structure. Glancing over to where Dream waited Cally sitting patiently at his feet. Techno stood in the center, Pithalo his familiar laying down innocently. George, Tommy, and Tubbo sat in a box for a king or wealthy person, or for anyone who thought highly of themselves and had taken over, waiting for my signal. Bad and Fundy watched the halls that led to the arena to warn us when Jacob arrived. Sapnap waited in the stands, Snap his familiar hidden, Philza and Wilbur also in the stands. More people filled in the stands some wearing armor some lightly geared. All curious, or just bored and looking for something to do. Some stared at me some pointed some yelled at me to die and leave the server. I ignored them, tapping my foot however Phade wouldn't have it so he teleported reappearing in front of the offending party, scaring the shit out of them. The sound of the noon bell rang and some came out with trays of food some even had popcorn. Fundy came out from the tunnel and ran over to me. 

“Some of Jacobs goons are on their way down the ball hall, ” I whistled loud enough for Sapnap above me to hear who then whistled over to George and little and big T. Tommy then whistled over to Dream who whistled to Techno. I clip my mask on and pull the hood of my cloak up. The onlookers looked up and quieted at the whistles, watching intently. Fundy and I moved further down the side of the arena away from the entrance. A few of Jacobs's friends walked out of the tunnels and onto the sand of the battlegrounds. Then a whistle fills the air. Technos blade glints in the sun, the sound of steel on steel rings across the arena. 

“I have something of yours, ” the sing-song of Jacobs's voice drifts in the wind. Jacob walks out holding Bad with a dagger to his throat. Halo is dragged out snout-tied shut. Jacobs's right-hand man drops her. No one moves, tension could be felt through the entire arena. Phade starts to move forward but I hold a hand out and walk forward. Jacob steps back slightly as I move forward fear flashing across his face. Bad knows what I'm doing and stays put slowly pulling the pearl I gave him out, clutching tightly. Dune, Tubbos familiar slithers under the sand to Halo and uses his teeth to undo the knot keeping Halos snout shut. Once the knot was undone Dune slithered away. Halo stays waiting, everyone holding their breath. 

“Stay back witch, ” Jacob snarled fear lacing the hate. I stop, waiting, everyone tense, everyone's hand near a weapon. 

“Unfortunately Jacob I don't listen to bullies. If I did I wouldn't be here... NOW!” Bad rolls the pearl hard, Halo leaps away, George and Tommy, and Tubbo fire arrows at the group. Whipping off my cloak I throw a dagger into the closest boy's chest, Jacob steps back in surprise while Bad reappears in front of Techno. Dream dives into the battle trading blows with a dark-haired boy and his coyote familiar, Techno Bad, and Fundy fight the boys from the other tunnel, while Dream, the archery team, and I fight off Jacobs group. Bads pearl appears in my hand as I dodge a swing. I shove another throwing knife into the kids chest and I back out of the fight, running to Bad. At least five kids have hit the ground, and have not gotten up. Bad and I switch places and as he runs past I hand him the pearl. A brown-haired boy has Techno pinned and Fundy is trying to fend off two people at once. With a snarl I pull my sword out of the sheath and stab one of Fundies enemies and slam my shield into the others side. 

“Thanks, ” Fundy nods and runs after another opponent. I dodge another swing while running to Techno. Pithalo snarls and snaps at a jaguar unable to help Techno, and Phade runs in and latches onto the jaguar's back. I run in quiet but Technos opponent watches me from the reflection of his shield and sidesteps me. Before I run Techno through I slide to a stop and duck. Techno blocks his swing with his shield and I swipe at his exposed side. Jacobs goon sways left avoiding my blade and disengages with Technos shield. Something glints behind me and I sway right avoiding a fatal blow and get the edge of a sword across my side. Blood drips down my side and pain runs up my spine, I snarl and deflect a downward strike, I pivot right and slam my elbow into his side. He stumbles backward and regains his footing snarling. Techno manages to get a blow in slamming his opponent into the ground, and comes at the redhead fighting me and we both shove him into a wall his head slamming into the stone wall. Blood drips down the back of his head and smears down the wall as he collapses limp. 

“You ok?” I nod leaning against the wall for a moment, resting as Techno takes a look at the cut on my side. The blood has slowly stopped dripping. A tear in Technos breeches drips with blood, and a cut runs across his left arm. Phade trots over with Pithalo behind him, both scratched up but nothing serious. Picking up my sword I roll my arms and shoulders. 

“Alright let's go, ” Techno and I run in together fighting back to back, eventually only 10 of Jacobs original the group was left. 

“Give up Jacob! Make this go away!” Jacob didn't reply but stood behind his righthand man who was facing off with Dream. Dream swung, righty (Jacobs guy) deflected the attack and swung at Dream who lept back and shot forward stabbing the bully in the side. He yelled in pain and fell to his knees. Dream looked at me, and I shook my head. He stepped back, George, Tommy, Tubbo, Philza, Wilbur, and Sapnap circled the rest of Jacobs boys who dropped their weapons and got on their knees. Philza went in and tied their hands behind them and had them face one another to make sure they didn't try and escape. Tommy Tubbo and George aimed their bows at the captives. Jacob watched terrified, no one there to save him or defend him. The people in the stands watched in silenced awe. 

“Jacob me and you, duel, ” I walked forward into the center of the arena sword out pointed to the ground. He stepped up. 

“To the death, ” he looked up a savage grin across his face. Everyone started to protest but I put my hand in the air. It was final, Jacob and I would fight to the death if I lost he and his friends took over, if I won his friends either died or promised to never bully anyone. 

“Clare! This is a bad idea!” Philza grabbed my hand and turned me around. His eyes full of worry, and the others had looks of shock and terror righten across their faces. Techno shook his head, saying no. 

“If I die... Get out of here, hide, run, don't stay here to avenge me. Please, ” I looked into their bruised cut sweaty faces. I hugged Tommy and Tubbo tight while rubbing their heads, embraced Philza who kissed me on the head, Wilbur hugged me and tucked a strand of hair behind my ear, Bad hugged me whispering quietly, Fundy looked away and George and Sapnap shook my hand. Dream shook my hand and hugged me rubbing my head. And Techno stood unable to move. I hugged him and he pulled me away and cradled my face, tears in his eyes. Phade jumped up and put his paws on my shoulder and licked my face, while I hugged him close. He got down and stood by Techno. With a sigh, I face my enemy while the others back off. Jacobs sword is out and ready to swing, his stance loose his demeanor savage. He was ready to kill me even if he went down with me. I pull my belt quiver and scabbard off and set them on the ground. The only things on me is a pearl, an golden apple and my hidden throwing knives. I roll my shoulders, my arms, my wrists, stretch and concentrate. I take a few deep breathes and close my eyes. Jacob decides to come at me, his sword raised over his shoulder. Tubbo calls out to warn me and I ignore him, focusing on listening. Ten feet, seven feet, five feet, four feet! Now! I pivot on my left foot sidestepping Jacobs charge, and as he flys, past me, I pivot on my right foot and slam my boot into his back. He slides several feet his sword flying through the air clattering to the ground several feet away. He struggles to get up and scrambling for his sword cursing. My eyes still closed I listen for his footsteps this time he slowly approaches me... From my left. He charges again seven feet from me, swinging for my head. Fundy gasps, the others holding their breaths. Instead of sidestepping Jacob again, I open my eyes and my shield appears in my hand and I take the full force of 150 pounds running full speed into me. I brace my feet and rock with the impact. My shield arm goes numb and I have to pinch my funny bone until I can feel my arm again. Jacob hits his head on the edge of the shield as he crashes into me, stumbling back. My turn. I run straight at him then bond off my right foot to the side and strike from above. Jacob barely put his shield up in time and my sword glances off it. I dance backward with a laugh as he jabs forward. He snarls in frustration as my friends whoop and holler. He slowly circles trying to decide how to go about this. He flicks his blade trying to distract me, but I don't bite at the bait. I step forward and he jerks backward, and as he leans backward I launch forward. I underhand a swing slicing into skin, blood spurts onto the sand and Jacob cries out stumbling backward. He snarls and jumps up ignoring the blood. He circles carefully and darts in then backs out as I flinch then darts in again with a fake out swing from the left then down the right cutting through my leggings and into flesh. Blood flows freely, and sweat drips into the wound making it sting even more. I bite my tongue and duck as he swings again. He then slams his shield into mine shoving me backward onto the ground. He brings his sword up and brings it down hard. My shield disappears and I roll to the right. I bound up and dance back as he recovers and swings at my waist. I go to swing then jump up and onto his shield as he puts it up to deflect the blow. Something snaps as he's shoved to the ground from my weight and he screams in pain. The world spins for a second before landing on my feet. Jacob struggles to get up his leg bent the wrong way. He holds his shield up in defense terror in his eyes. Then a single arrow streaks through the air and slams into my left side. For a moment nothing happens and then someone screams. Blood drips from the corner of my mouth as I stare at Jacob, his savage laugh ripping through the air. Someone yells my name I think Techno? Blood continues to drip from my mouth and now slowly down my chest. In slow motion, I pull a throwing knife from its sheath, and with my last bit of strength, I throw as hard as I can. The laughing stops and turns to screaming that emanates through the air. Then I'm falling, the blue sky flashing across my vision, someone yells my name again. Dark brown feathers stick out of my chest, blood tainting their edges, the wind ruffling them slightly. Someone caught me from behind before I hit the ground, their arms wrapped around my shoulders. My vision began fading in an out, someone, probably Bad knelt beside me and grabbed the arrow. Techno cradled my head as Bad carefully pulled on the arrow. When it moved slightly Bad kept pulling as there was no head on the arrow allowing Bad to remove it. “Get ready blood is gonna start pouring out, ” Bads voice was quiet, worried and filled with dread. Someone mentioned the golden apple, but Dream said something about a once over kind of thing. Phade licked my hand, whining someone said something but I couldn't tell as everything started darkening. Techno gripped my hand whispering in my ear and I gripped his hand back before letting go, letting the darkness take me, peaceful bliss. 

Abandoning Sanctuary

 I've had more excitement in three days than the healthy requirement. First waking up in a small dorm in a building with more boys than one girl should have to deal with, without another girl to converse with, second getting chased down by Dream, third saving Tommy and Tubbo, making friends with a good group of boys (who aren't hooligans), fourth fighting the twins and almost losing Phade, fifth and final, fighting Jacob and his friends. Since I ate a sliver of the golden apple to heal myself for war, the apple wouldn't be able to heal me again, at least not for a while. I'm lucky I'm still alive. Had Bad not been around or had none of the boys known how to heal I would have died. Granted I can't move for a week, I don't mind. I've got good people around me and nothing threatens our safety for the moment. I think the Dream team has made it clear, we're not meant to be messed with. The team killed off anyone who still stood on Jacobs side (who is now dead thanks to me and Tommy who finished him off with an arrow after my knife lodged itself into his chest) and the rest are carefully watched some even helping others with training. Bad said that I could move around within a week just no fighting or running around until I'm completely healed. So now I sit on a mattress in the middle of the ball room, with blankets wrapped around me, Techno sitting behind me braiding my hair, Wilbur plays his guitar, his lyrics could use some work but his voice is amazing, Bad every so often checks on me asking me how I feel, Tommy and Tubbo play with some of the familiars Phade finally playing with the others after sitting directly if not on top of me until I was able to sit up without fainting for a while, George, Sapnap, Dream, and Fundy work on bringing supplies in for what no one has told me, and Philza and I would chat when I'm not writing in the diary he had made for me. Cally, Dreams familiar likes to sit curled in my lap so I will pet her head or slither onto my shoulder when she's bored. Marina Fundies familiar watched the others chase a ball and whenever the ball rolled close by she would leap up like a fox does when they're digging for food and grab the ball. Whenever the others got close to take it from her she bolt across the marble floor, slide before she hit a wall and bound off that and change directions surprising the others who all then crashed into the wall and into one another. I would laugh hard which hurt usually I would pass out after that but after a few days it didn't hurt as much. Bad would get frustrated and eventually yell which surprised everyone and then he would apologize and I would chuckle. The sun was setting and I was tired. I put the diary down and carefully lowered myself onto a pillow. The others would quiet and find something quiet to do, usually Wilbur and Philza would chat and Techno would play a game of cards with Tommy. By the time the sun went down everyone was asleep except whoever was on watch. Tomorrow was a big day I can feel it.

 

“Clare I really would prefer you stay put, ” Bad watched worriedly as I stood with the help of Wilburs shoulder. 

“You said, ‘one week Clare then you can walk around but no fighting or running around’ I feel fine Bad quit fussing, ” Bad grumbled something but I ignored him. I let go of Wilbur and took a few steps, I didn't fall or faint so I took a few more steps. Phade stood by my side watching with worry. 

“See I'm fine. Now, I want to help with this project you guys are so intently focused on, ” I grabbed my scabbard and strapped it to my back wincing quietly as pain lanced through my left side where the arrow had gone through. 

“What is going on?” I looked from Bad to Techno to Wilbur. No one replied. With a grumble, I walked over to Dream who was going through a pile of blankets, bags, food in containers or satchels, weapons, medical supplies, and other random stuff. Fundy and George came in arms full of rope and other gear. 

“Hey! Glad to see you up and moving!” Fundy patted me on the shoulder and George tossed me an apple which I snatched out of the air. I smiled happy to be on my feet again. Phade wagged his tail and licked Fundies hand for attention, which Fundy replied by scratching Phades ears. 

“So, ” I bit into the apple, before continuing. “What's going on?” Dream stood inspecting some rope. 

“Remember before the battle Tommy said he found a way out of here?” I tilted my head thinking. That's right! “Yeah!” 

“Well, we are preparing to leave. Time we saw what's outside, ” he tossed me a bag full of supplies. 

“Techno, check that all the weapons and blades are in good shape and remove the ones in bad shape. Wrap any that we won't carry on hand, ” Techno started on his task while Dream tossed me more bags. Shrugging I went through the supplies and took inventory. I grabbed things that would be important, food, water canteens, medical supplies were not as much needed because we were all pretty capable of avoiding injury, tents, blankets, rope, whetstones, compasses, maps which I stopped to study. 

“Hey Dream, ” Dream looked up and came over to me. “Hm, ” was all he said when he finished looking. His expression changed to a thoughtful one. The map showed several buildings identical to ours scattered over different biomes. He tilted his head looking closer.

"Theres more of these buildings?" I nodded eyeing the buildings before my eyes were drawn to the key. 

"Looks like four miles is 1/2 in so at least 10-12 miles between each building with at least three buildings in each biome," I said pointing drawing my finger across the map from the key to each building to the biome borders. Dream studied the map thinking.

"Looks like there's more to this game than we thought," he said quietly hands on his hips chewing his lip. I nodded in agreement as Techno walked over to observe the map. 

"Exciting," he commented looking at me. 

The sun was slowly setting by the time we were all ready to go, everyone had a pack with a med kit, sewing kit, water filter kit, weapon cleaning kit, extra clothes, food, canteens, and anything else we could find that would be useful. I was still stiff from the arrow and whenever I move my shoulder or arm to high or to far pain lances up my spine. By the time the sun was fully set and the half moon had risen our group was standing outside the secret entrance. 

"Everyone ready?" Dream asked glancing around. Everyone nodded and Tommy stepped forward opening the entrance. A stone wall rotated slowly stone grating on stone and an empty dark hall lead to the back end of a stall. I stepped forward first walking inside into the stall. It was a large stable that sat against the walls of the building behind them. Horses of every type color and build sat in the stalls well groomed and fed. 

"Who's been feeding them?" I asked opening the stall door and walking along the sides. The others followed behind while I checked the place. Pristine and empty. Bizzare is a perfect word for this situation in all honesty. 

"Ok let's figure out where to go from here. We've got a map that says there's more places like this beyond the trees that we can see. We've got horses in a stables hidden away. So we've made it to round two part two the second phase. Whatever. How do we want to go about this?" Everyone stood in the hall leaning against the stall doors or the wall oppisite them. 

"Well we've got horses. We take them and we leave. We figure it out from there," I said unlocking a stall and pulling the grey stallion by his harness. 

"Perhaps in doing so we'll find out what's next," I said grabbing the tack and saddle hanging on pegs in front of the horses stall and put them onto horse tightening the straps. I looked up when I was done, the others watching before shrugging and following suit. I lead my horse out of the stables through a large door and waited. Technoblade followed behind then Dream, slowly everyone came out with a fully tacked horse. I mounted mine with practiced ease sliding my foot into the stirrup pulling the reins to face the stable and the arenas walls behind it. 

"Let's get to the trees before anyone else comes out through that hall," Dream said following my gaze before urging his horse forward towards the trees. We followed quickly behind alert for any traps or tricks. We still didn't know what this was yet. All we knew was we were ahead. 

Impressum

Texte: GhostWolf
Bildmaterialien: None
Cover: Society6
Lektorat: GhostWolf
Korrektorat: GhostWolf
Übersetzung: Noone
Satz: None
Tag der Veröffentlichung: 17.03.2021

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