#Kinger is still number one I love him

[oll13v3r]

Chat I'm starting to like Jax again am I screwed

[sm-baby]

The Chosen One

Freakshow AU by: @hootbon

WHATS UP FREAKSHOWERS, SM-BABY HERE-

Banned myself from drawing for a bit but my creative juices were still screaming at me 😔 gonna also repost this on ao3 later when I set up the account

Word count: 6795

Freakshow AU Able with some indulgent Showtime teehee~ no beta, we die like Queenie HOOTBON DONT MIND HOW OUT OF CHARACTER THIS IS LOVE YOU GIRL MWAH MWAH MWAH MWHA

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Caine and his brother sometimes take bets during games.

There are also times when they get especially bored, and take the games up a notch.

They don't simply place their bets on a chosen human, no. Instead, the brothers figure out a set of games, choose their humans, and steal them away to mentor them. 

Caine’s punishments are especially harsh during these occasions. Although he usually kept a cheerful facade, he would be especially antsy, tap his feet, cross his arms, much less masked. It must sting to have the person you trained lose. Not only is it a bad choice of character, but it's also a bad reflection on you as a teacher. Inadequate. Unworthy. Pitied. 

Able himself was a special man. He never took these sorts of challenges seriously, but rather a bonding activity between him and his dear brother. Maybe because he hadn’t led the circus firsthand, rather, did the business side of things in the background. He never cared for the humans, and simply visits now and then. Caine would often be more strict during his visits. Telling the group in subtle ways to behave for an hour or so.

When he visited though, it was always a treat.

Gangle broke her mask? He supplied one that's—

“A little harder to break. “

Kinger was feeling especially antsy? 

“A 6 legged friend to keep you company!”

Ragatha, did you anger Caine?

“ I will speak to him." 

The group often preferred when Able was over as Caine would be distracted for a few hours-- even if they did have to behave. One would imagine the relief someone would have when Able chose them for a game and be whisked away from the dreaded halls covered from trap to trap. 

That day, the brothers chose a series of games based on the arts. As they stood in front of the number of players forcefully aligned like a character select screen, the brothers pondered their options. 

A series of games based on the arts… It's wisest to pick more of the artistically inclined members of the group, so not someone who specializes in strength or speed… perhaps Gangle or Ragatha or-

“You! At the very back."

It was almost like a death sentence the moment his digit pointed at their person. The group sighed in relief after silently begging, pleading, holding their breath that they would stay out of it, or at least have Able take care of them… but this time it was curious. 

The group stared curiously at Able’s chosen person, who was purposefully placed at the back. Enough to be considered “participating" but not enough to be a quick option. 

Pomni trembled, and just from the beckoning of his finger, she could feel her gravity to be pulled towards the blue ringmaster, the tip of her shoes dragged along the floor as an invisible squeeze engulfed her body. 

“N-No! No no!" Pomni gulped, trying to word a nice way to decline. “ Y-You don't want me! I’m-- not really.." 

Able beckoned her closer. " A ballerina is perfect for a game of art! Apologies if she was your chosen freak brother, but—"

Suddenly, a different kind of gravity pulled on Pomni’s body, in the exact opposite direction from Able. Silently, the older brother, Caine, was pulling the doll away in protest. Pomni was lucky the men were being civil, The opposite poles of gravity would be enough to rip her straight in the middle. 

Still, she grit her teeth while it felt like two children were fighting over a toy. 

“ Oh!" Able laughed. “ That’s cheating brother! I chose her first, maybe you should be more decisive next time you-”

“ No thank you!" Caine said, and Pomni suddenly felt a stronger pull towards him. 

Despite the calm/cheery tone of voice, Caine kept a spot of jealousy at the back of his mind. Usually, he would not care. But this was a special case. Pomni has not yet held a good impression on Able— mostly because she hasn't exactly met him one-on-one—And Caine was not about to let her… 

“ Nonsense!” Able said. Pomni felt a pull from the opposite direction, putting her back in the middle. She could feel her muscles tense from the pressure.

It was … strangely entertaining for the rest of the humans. “ Better her than me." One of them whispered. 

The brothers continued their quarrelling. Able continued." Oh dear brother, the purpose of our freaks is to perform! I don't see why this little thing wouldn't be able to have the same opportunity. “

" Our ballerina is off-limits! You can choose from any other assortment of freaks." A pull.

" She looks perfectly well to me! “ pull. 

“ I won't let you! “ A pull again.

“ Oh, I promise I'll take good care of her! " A pull again!

" No, I don't think so! “ a pull again! 

" You seem to be holding quite the issue with her being with me, brother, why is that?"

“ Because I want her."

Silence… 

The blue Brother stared. 

Caine didn't yell, he didn't speak any louder really, but it was a frustrated tone of voice, more aggressive than passive. Why, Able hasn't heard that kind of tone in a long time. His brother spoke like he was gritting his teeth… curious.

“ I..'' Pomni stammered. “ I think im gonna throw up… “

Quickly, Able let go of his pull, sending her flying towards Caine before being set gently on her knees to the ground. Her hands held to her mouth closing in any sort of vomit.

Pomni could sense reactions from her fellow freaks, snickering, whispers… Although Ragatha wanted to feel bad, even she could feel a sort of satisfaction from the display.

Still…the group couldn't help but figuratively roll their eyes.

Why is it always the new girl?

❄︎ ✌︎ ☹︎ 😐︎ 📬︎ 

Before they knew it, the brothers stared directly at each other… silent, expressions blank yet intense as the two seemed to have a form of communication they could not grasp. The room was as quiet as ever, but the group couldn't help but sense a dangerous amount of tension between the two.

“📬︎📬︎📬︎ 👍︎◆︎❒︎♓︎□︎◆︎⬧︎📬︎ ✋︎ ♎︎♓︎♎︎■︎ॐ︎⧫︎ 🙵■︎□︎⬥︎ ❍︎⍓︎ ♌︎❒︎□︎⧫︎♒︎♏︎❒︎ ◻︎●︎♋︎⍓︎♏︎♎︎ ♐︎♋︎❖︎□︎❒︎♓︎⧫︎♏︎⬧︎📬︎”

“✋︎♐︎ ■︎□︎⧫︎📪︎ ⧫︎♒︎♏︎■︎ ⍓︎□︎◆︎ ♍︎●︎♏︎♋︎❒︎●︎⍓︎ ♎︎□︎■︎ॐ︎⧫︎ 🙵■︎□︎⬥︎ ❍︎♏︎📬︎”

“⬥︎♒︎⍓︎✍︎ “

“💧︎♒︎♏︎⬧︎ ⧫︎♒︎♏︎ ⬧︎⧫︎♋︎❒︎ ♋︎⧫︎⧫︎❒︎♋︎♍︎⧫︎♓︎□︎■︎📪︎ ⬧︎��︎❒︎♏︎●︎⍓︎ ♓︎⧫︎ ⬥︎□︎◆︎●︎♎︎ ♍︎♋︎◆︎⬧︎♏︎ ♋︎ ⬧︎⧫︎♓︎❒︎ ⧫︎□︎ ⬧︎♏︎♏︎ ♒︎♏︎❒︎ ●︎□︎⬧︎♏︎📬︎ ✋︎ ♍︎♋︎■︎■︎□︎⧫︎ ❒︎♓︎⬧︎🙵 ⧫︎♒︎♋︎⧫︎📬︎”

“📬︎📬︎📬︎👎︎□︎ ⍓︎□︎◆︎ ❍︎♏︎♋︎■︎ ⬥︎♒︎♋︎⧫︎ ⍓︎□︎◆︎ ⬧︎♋︎⍓︎📪︎ ♌︎❒︎□︎⧫︎♒︎♏︎❒︎✍︎”

“✋︎ ♎︎□︎■︎ॐ︎⧫︎ ⬧︎♏︎♏︎ ⬥︎♒︎⍓︎ ✋︎ ♎︎□︎■︎ॐ︎⧫︎📬︎”

Pomni stood up from her form, walking back to her fellow freaks, hand rubbing her arms, looking down-- she stared at the brothers for a moment like everyone else did, not only did she sense how eerie the sight was, but she also couldn't help but feel a strange form of self-blame for the situation. Pomni, what the hell did you do this time? 

“ Oh." Jax wheezed. " If I were you, I’d kill myself. “

" Ragatha said to shut up." Kinger piped in, and Jax turned to Ragatha already on her way to write down a string of text. 

" What! Tell me Im wrong, dollface. “

Ragatha rolled her eyes before turning to Pomni, slumping her shoulders and bending her knees to give her a note. “Caine said you were ‘off limits’. So I think you're safe for now at least." 

" And… what does it mean if Im… not off limits?” Pomni stammered.

Ragatha stayed quiet and turned to Kinger, not needing to sign her next words.

“ Then you'll be just like the rest of us. “

“⚐︎♒︎ ♍︎□︎❍︎♏︎ ■︎□︎⬥︎📪︎ ⍓︎□︎◆︎ ♌︎♋︎❒︎♏︎●︎⍓︎ ⬧︎◻︎♏︎■︎♎︎ ⧫︎♓︎❍︎♏︎ ⬥︎♓︎⧫︎♒︎ ❍︎♏︎📪︎ ♋︎■︎⍓︎❍︎□︎❒︎♏︎✏︎”

“❄︎♒︎♏︎ ♋︎◆︎♎︎♓︎♏︎■︎♍︎♏︎ ⧫︎♋︎🙵♏︎ ◻︎❒︎♓︎□︎❒︎♓︎⧫︎⍓︎ □︎♐︎♍︎□︎◆︎❒︎⬧︎♏︎📬︎ ✋︎⧫︎⬧︎ □︎◆︎❒︎ ⬧︎□︎●︎♏︎ ◻︎◆︎❒︎◻︎□︎⬧︎♏︎📬︎ “

“☟︎♋︎❖︎♏︎ ⍓︎□︎◆︎ ♐︎□︎❒︎♑︎□︎⧫︎⧫︎♏︎■︎ ♋︎♌︎□︎◆︎⧫︎ ♐︎♋︎❍︎♓︎●︎⍓︎✍︎ ❄︎♒︎♏︎ ❖︎♏︎❒︎⍓︎ ♋︎♓︎ ⬥︎♒︎□︎ॐ︎⬧︎ ♌︎♏︎♏︎■︎ ♒︎♏︎❒︎♏︎ ⬥︎♓︎⧫︎♒︎ ⍓︎□︎◆︎ ⬧︎♓︎■︎♍︎♏︎ ♍︎□︎■︎♍︎♏︎◻︎⧫︎♓︎□︎■︎✍︎”

“⬥︎♒︎♋︎⧫︎ ♋︎❒︎♏︎ ⍓︎□︎◆︎ □︎■︎ ♋︎♌︎□︎◆︎⧫︎✍︎ ✡︎□︎◆︎❒︎ॐ︎♏︎ ♋︎♍︎⧫︎♓︎■︎♑︎ ●︎♓︎🙵♏︎ ♋︎ ♍︎♒︎♓︎●︎♎︎📬︎”

“☹︎♏︎⧫︎ ❍︎♏︎ ◻︎●︎♋︎⍓︎ ⬥︎♓︎⧫︎♒︎ ⧫︎♒︎♏︎ ♎︎□︎●︎●︎📬︎”

“■︎□︎📬︎ “

The brothers looked distracted. Jax was first to try and see if he could escape the situation, but he was interrupted when Caine pointed his finger at him, forcefully grabbed him by his neck, and set him back to his original position. His eyes never left his brother’s yet they were still all too aware of their surroundings. 

Pomni swallowed…Off limits ...Off limits he says. She knows she should be safe. And so, Pomni took a breath and exhaled.

She’ll be fine. 

She'll be fine.

She's fine. 

Shes—

“ Fine." The sound of a cane tapped on the floor, almost spiteful. " You can use her.”

What!?

" What!? “

The rest of the freaks felt their hair stand up again. Although Caine kept his calm tone of voice, that didn't reassure the others all that much. That kind of quiet anger was familiar. Caine being convinced to change his mind was not something that often happened. 

When all was said and all was done, Ragatha sighed, and turned back to Pomni, finishing off a note she's been writing. “Don't worry. Able is much more pleasant to be around. You're in safe hands. “

“ I sure hope so. His hands are very big!" Kinger piped up. 

Pomni was practically shaking in her heeled boots, the wood of her skin making clicking sounds as she did. Pomni doesn't exactly trust the situation at all, let alone the brothers, and to be alone with someone related to Caine didn't sound the most safe. 

Ragatha frowned seeing she was not convinced, and went back to writing. “ If It makes you feel any better, I feel a lot worse for Gangle than I am for you. “

They turn to Gangle, whose tragedy mask was on the floor weeping and in tears upon being chosen by Caine, while her happier counterpart horrendously verbally abused her from above.

For a moment Pomni laughed from the humor, despite the terrible context… but it was quickly interrupted by a gasp as she was suspended from the ground again and closer to the head of cards.

“ Hello, doll. Last chance to say goodbye to your friends! " Able said in an almost sing-songy voice.

Pomni, in fact, did not say goodbye, rather just stood there, like a plank of wood, frozen in fear. She gulped.

Able continued. “ ...Or stand in silence. That's okay too." The humans stared at the two as they went higher in the air. Able waved with all four fingers. “ We'll be off! Thank you for your company." 

Caine was silent. But Pomni swore she could feel his eyes tracking her as she disappeared. 

Snap!

Blip! 

Pomni gasped as if her head had been forced underwater for the past 6 hours.

She would open her eyes, wide, before turning them in confusion. Her gasps followed suit as they lessened.

“ Huh!?… Where-… What!? “

She didn't know what she was expecting but it was certainly not this. Pomni woke up in a bed much more luxurious than what she was used to, and a room much bigger than the one at the circus. The room was rather well-kept. Clean. A standard good but a comfortable one. 

Whatever injuries Pomni had back in the freakshow were no longer there, little scratches or dents, dusts in certain crevices… disappeared. Almost like she had just been born yesterday.

Pomni climbed off the bed which was-- admitted a little too tall for her, and went to search around.

*(A closet made of fine wood)

> Check

Upon sliding the closet door open, Pomni would see… an assortment of clothing… but not just any clothing. A set of six mannequins shaped like the other performers lined up… 

Pomni would see the one for Ragatha with an eye patch as well as a note…

 “ *Greetings, Ragdoll! I recall you saying it bothered you to have two eyes again. I cannot change your form, but I hope this will suffice.   -Able AI “ +2 armor

Kinger had a robe on his mannequin. “ * Clothing fit for a king… and to keep you warm.    - Able AI “ +8 armor

Zooble had knuckles on theirs. “ * If you ask me, you certainly don't need this. And no, you cannot bring it back home to use it on your rabbit friend.    - Able AI “ +6 Attack

And plenty more! Pomni supposed she wasn't the first one to come here… that explains the scratches on the door. 

*(Take items?)

   > Yes

   > No

   > Yes

*(Trick question! Those aren't for you, silly!)

Pomni would turn her head to the corner of the closet, the mannequin right next to Zooble, the last member who came before her.

The mannequin for her was seemingly empty until she looked down… hers were ballet shoes. White with golden balls in the middle. The note reads: “ *Salutations, Pomni.  I've heard all about you from the Audience but I haven't met you myself. I hope we can be comfortable in each other's company. My brother seems pleased with your performance.    -Able AI“ +5 speed

*(Equip Ballet Shoes?)

    > Yes

    > No

    > Yes

*(Equipped Ballet shoes! Your speed has increased.)

Pomni opened the door and peeked her head out first. The hallway was quiet… but the decor was noticeably a lot more Victorian… 

Huh. Pomni suspects that this would feel right at home for the brothers.

Anyways, this freaked her out.

Pomni walked down the halls with knees faced with each other. This was a new area in the game that she didn't know about— her eyes scanned every corner, a misplaced brick, levers she dared not switch, she didn't know where the traps were in this area.

A hallway of doors… She wonders… is it possible that this place could hold on exit from the game? 

She opened one and read the sign… “ Caine AI's first attempt on room generation.", and it was… contrasting. It was colorful. Low polygon, looks like a room more fit for an early PC desktop game… 

…Caine? Caine made that? No shot. She feels like if she asked him, her limbs would be used for the next chimney fire. 

Music rang in her ears. Pomni would recall that, around Caine, she would hear the motif and sounds of an organ and a violin… but here, in his brother’s world… It was only a violin… Pomni followed the sound, and it got louder and louder as she approached the door at the end of the hallway.

Click!

Pomni would meet an old Victorian living room. Warm fire with a warm chair next to it… but what would catch Pomni’s attention was the head of cards playing his violin, dancing along to the tune, turned to an empty organ as if he played one half of a duet. 

He hadn't even paused, simply looked at her as he continued to play. “ Slept well, doll? “

“ Uhh-" 

“Good. I don't believe we've met. You may call me Able. “

" U-Uhm my name is-”

" I don't care. “ a harsh sound on the violin before Able placed it down on a stand right next to the organ. “I see you've found your shoes. Hopefully, it'll help you for tonight’s festivities."

" T-Tonight's festivities? Sorry, I-Im… new to this kind of thing? “

“ The games, ofcourse.” Able clasped his hands together and floated towards Pomni, “ I used to tend to these sorts of events with my brother, so I'm fairly familiar… consider this like old times.”

Pomni frowned, looking away. Able wasn't as nice as how the others described him to be. At the very least he wasn't torturing her yet, which…she supposed… was a step up from when she first met Caine… 

“ You must be hungry."

“ I haven't been hungry since-" 

Snap!

Swirls replaced her irises. She put her hand out for balance and the first thing she felt was the fabric of a tablecloth. She would blink and snap out of her haze to realize that she was sitting at the opposite end of a long dining table. 

Able sat on the other end, hands under his chin as he observed the new guest. 

“U-uh… '' Pomni would look at him before her eyes trailed down, and would notice a digital feast on the table before her. '' O-Oh Im not… really.. hung… " 

Pomni had a double take.

The food looked… Strangely realistic.

Ever since she arrived at the Digital Circus, Pomni had only the very limited polygonal sort of food, either prepared by their head bubble chef, or a cruel sort of joke from Caine to eat other members.

But this… 

Her stare continued to widen. She didn't realise it but her eyes watered. She hasn't seen this kind of food since… 

Able watched her pick at the chicken with her gloved fingers. The way she pulled back and flicked her wrist when she realized that the food had temperature built into it— it must have hurt, but somehow that made it more desirable for her.

Improper.

Able continued to stare as she practically scarfed down her meal… he couldn't help but roll his eyes while she wasn't looking.  The others weren’t any different, but he expected better from someone his brother would fight him over… Able has known Caine for the longest time and he knows his overall taste is different from his. But this? This was the thing he was protecting? …He felt rather insulted honestly!

“ Do you still eat in the circus?"

“ Hm?" Pomni muffled a reply, a face and hand stuffed with all sorts of meat and delectables.

Able blinked, hiding his disgust.

The doll furrowed her brows in realization, as dread quickly hit her… oh god… she was told to behave around Able… oh dear fuck… oh fuck oh god… what is he gonna do to her? Did she fuck this up?

Oh god oh fuck.

Oh dear oh god fuck shit holy fuck oh my fuck shit ass bitch cunt fuck-

“ J... Just finish chewing."

“COOL." 

Pomni swallowed and continued to eat, now with a little more manners. Able sat ahead, his focus a little off from her, thinking to himself. Now what was he pondering? A way to murder her, she’s sure. 

*(Able sits at the opposite of you)

     > Talk

     > Say nothing

     >Talk

*(Talk about…)

     > Place

     > Food

     > Festivities

     > Caine

     > Nothing, Nevermind

     > Place

“W…Where.. Am I?”

Able turned back to Pomni as if he’d snapped out of his thoughts. “ You’re in the testing facility. This is where Caine and I used to pretest code and projects before using them for the circus. It used to be a lot more abstract and plain. But over time it changed due to… uhm..” Able’s brows furrowed “... I don’t know exactly. It just did…. We never questioned it.”

Able shrugged. “It's smaller than it looks. For example, my brother and I don’t have bedrooms. The dining table wasn’t made until recently. Unlike you and your friends, my brother and I are much more low maintenance.”

*(Talk about…)

     > Food

     > Festivities

     > Caine

     > Nothing, Nevermind

    > Food

“ How did you .. what…?”

“My programming is a little more advanced than my brother’s. I’ve mastered texturing, modelling, character effects… and plenty more. I played a hand in why you bleed, why you have working skeletons, or how organs can spill out of your body. My brother can make his food, but it’s a little more basic… I don’t blame him. He is maintaining an entire Circus after all. Sometimes his cooking is even edible!”

 *(Talk about…)

     > Festivities

     > Caine

     > Nothing, Nevermind

     > Caine

“ Uhm... You and Caine… You’re brothers?”

Able Chuckled. “ Believe it or not, Caine is the older brother of us two. I was created to perfect his imperfections, though that sadly made it so I was given more of the credit. ” Able paused and turned his head to the side. “ … Rarely does he visit the facility anymore. What I would do to play a song with him again.” he chuckled. “ But I suppose being a nuisance to him is just as fun!”

*(Talk about…)

     > Festivities

     > Nothing, Nevermind

     > Festivities

“ I think you chose the wrong person here for that kind of theme…” Pomni said nervously, wiping away the remaining food from her lips. “ I’m… not exactly an artsy kind of person, I’m more into-- maths?”

“ Art is a very broad term. I’m more familiar with the classical, meaningful, way of art, while my brother sees art in a sort of entertainment kind of sense. It only makes sense that he chose Gangle. I heard she can be quite the artist.” Able found himself rambling. It seems the brothers seemed to have a thing for creativity. Creative AIs, Pomni supposed. “ -- Which is why I chose you, doll,”

Pomni flinched when Able pointed his digit at her.

“A ballerina with a way of dance. You seem to be around my likeness… My brother likes your work and I… trust his judgement.” 

“ Uh, haha... “ Pomni laughed nervously. She hadn’t cared about her performance in the artistic sense in all honesty. It was more of a survival mechanism. If it's good enough to please The Audience, It was good enough for her. Nothing behind it at all. “Thanks, I guess…”

“ How about you? What are your thoughts on my brother?”

Pomni took a breath in her mind. Pomni has nothing but bad experiences with Caine. Pomni has had nothing but bad experiences in the Circus in general, but admittedly, Caine was the one who manifested it all.

…But she doesn’t exactly think Able would be pleased to hear gossip about his brother. 

“ Caine’s fine. He’s… nice, uh…” Pomni bit her lip. Wow, there really is nothing good she can say about Caine huh? 

She would stop it there, but the eye squint and the small head turn from the usually unemotive brother sent her into a sort of panic…

“ He’s a good ringleader! Doesn’t take no for an answer. He’s really good at, uh… keeping us disciplined and in check?” if someone could hear inner monologue they would go deaf.  The look in his eyes-- what does he want her to say?? 

Pomni would look up to see if her answers satisfied the blue brother’s curiosity. And in her horror, it seemed that it didn’t. He furrowed his brows and Pomni would hear the sharp note from a violin.

“ I suppose I should word myself better…” 

Able put his hands on the table and stood up, making himself feel bigger compared to Pomni’s slouching form. 

“ What. Is your relationship. With. My. Brother.” His eyes stared at her, wider than ever as the eeriest and deafening sound of an angry violin stung her ears!

“ I -” Pomni flinched!

“ You. You specifically.”

The way the strings pierced her hearing was violating! Pomni felt like the legs of the dining chair were getting longer and longer. If she got off she’s afraid she’d fall to her death! 

Able stared at the little, pathetic thing under him. This can’t be it is it? She was ever so small in comparison, he felt like he could just reach over and crush her to death. This?? This is what he was losing to?? This is what his relationship was worth?! His eyes were as fixated as ever. He watched as she held her head down, her ears, he laid clueless to how loud his presence was when she was positive that her head was just about to explode…

“ t--’ ah!” Pomni covered her ears. At that point, she was bringing her knees to her chest like a turtle taking shelter in her shell!

Look at her! Whimpering simply being in his presence! Her lifespan could only last for however long the audience wants her but he’s been created since the beginning! She was less than them! She was less than him! Caine and Able have been completing each other for the longest of time, and he was losing to THIS?!

He couldn’t take his eyes off her, he couldn’t believe how pathetic she was. The way she cried and cowered, At the very least his brother deserves better!

“ He’s just our ringmaster, I promise!” Pomni gasped as the ringing forced itself into her ears. “  I-If you want the full answer-- Im new! I’m new here! I don't know Caine as much as the rest do! I d-don’t even see him often-- he just prepares us for shows! I-- ”

He doesn’t know what took over him to have such emotions. The real Able was known to be the calm and collected one of the brothers, ‘the better brother’. He will say that he didn't mean to lash out, but he would be lying if he said he didn't mean every word. 

And as quickly as it came, the storm ended, and the tune that played in Pomni’s head left in a repeating fade… she breathes, small panicked breaths as her headache calmed down. 

Able sat down, back leaned to the chair, knuckles on his would-be cheek, and his other hand beckoning her to keep talking. “... And?" 

" A-And uhm—!” Pomni kept her head up to talk like her life depended on it." He- He… when.. when my routines get repetitive he would help me d-..do different ones… He plays the organ sometimes too and is-is really good at it! “

Able look at her, still with a face of disbelief…  at this point he was almost over it… 

Was that really it? 

Able sighed and sat back. Sometimes he overestimates his brother's taste. Perhaps he's much more simple-minded than he thought. For all he knows he just liked her because… 

Because… 

Oh heavens how embarrassing. 

He liked her like a pet…Of course he did. And he was treating her like a pet as well! Look at how clean she was compared to the other performers!

Able put a hand on his face… he really just lost his temper to what was equivalent to a dog… 

As Able was once again thinking of himself, he was a little blind to Pomni still trying to calm down in her chair… 

The doll didn't know what to think. Able was definitely not as kind as her friends lead her to believe. She was correct in the worst way possible. In fact she would flinch at the sight of him. 

“... Are you okay?"

Silence from Pomni. And before she knew it he stood up from his seat again and approached her, walking to her side of the table and offering a piece of cloth to help her collect herself. 

“Apologies. I didn't mean to lash out like that. It wasn't my place."

As Pomni used the cloth on her person, there was a part of her that somehow knew that apology wasn't exactly the most meaningful. Pomni may not be good at showing it, but the woman was a lot more observant than she'd like to admit. “... Its okay… “

“ Is there anything I can do to make it up to you?"

“ W-When can I… leave?" 

… that was rude, Able can admit. But he supposes it was fair. It took all of him to not roll his eyes at her. Before he continued to speak he returned his nurturing tone of voice: “ You may leave when we're prepared to tackle tonight. If it makes you feel better, you may have some time to gather in your room to prepare. “

“ Excuse me." As soon as the offer was given, Pomni got up from the table a little too suddenly than what was normal. Without even saying goodbye, Pomni walked off, and back to the hallway towards her door.

The moment she was gone, Able scowled and sighed. What kind of person taught her manners? He sat back down and stared at the plates of food she managed to scarf down in such a short amount of time… 

he put his hand on his face… Oh he really let his ego get the best of him because of some pet…he upset his brother's toy the first time they met… he had to make up for it. Maybe not for her but for his brother’s comfort, though, he doubts he'd really care. 

For the rest of the evening, Able spoke softly, respected boundaries and acted to be the most patient mentor for Pomni. He let her use his violin, insisted on food and breaks, and apologised at every step of the way for their terrible first impression. Pomni would only answer with a quick “it's okay" in response, which bothered Able to not be reciprocated… 

Pomni’s hypervigilance wasn't unfounded however. She knew Able was playing nice, the way she searched for a reaction for every apology, the way he was being just a little too affectionate, the love bombing… Able wasn't being honest with his intentions and so she wouldn't be honest about herself. 

Pomni felt a little better to say no to him at least…in fact, she would almost take the opportunity to use him to get more information. On breaks, Able would allow Pomni to walk around the Manor, exploring each room… it was a testing area… there's bound to be something… 

“There are no traps."

Pomni sighed.

" I think.”

" You think??”

" Some strings of code can be a little unstable. We didn't think to safety-proof anything since, well, we cannot die, and you were not meant to die. “

Great.. 

And Able wasn't lying. A lot of the doors were prank-boxing glove punches to the face, one was of a spinning carousel, and one was the bathroom of a very clean mannequin. Pomni almost lost her life with on the last one.

But it seems doors further away looked a lot more… abstract in the most literal sense. Polygons, shapes, colourful pieces… presumably one of the oldest doors there. 

she would read the signs 

“ Concept Layouts for The Grounds #2 

          || Note: consider more coloring options for the tent.    -Able AI”

“ Moon.AI Beta 

         ||Note: Im unsure with whats wrong with her, I desperately need assistance.    -Caine AI”

" The VOID (Do not enter)”

The sign didn't stop her. The moment she opened the door, she became mesmerised by the sea of pixels, eyes shaken yet still. She stood there frozen at the doorway hand on the knob unable to pry her eyes away…

Her heart was just about to leave her chest, as the strongest urge to step forward ingulfed her body. for all she knows she would be staring for forever. Into oblivion. With all her built up insanity, it feels like Pomni was staring at her death a million times over. 

Slam!

“ Digital World Etiquette! Read the sign! Hasn't Caine told you not to enter the void?" 

It took her a moment to snap out, but with a few blinks, she was right back. " Uhh.. yeah, yeah, he did uh— it's just… it's the closest I've ever gotten out of here. “

“ Out of here?"

“ Y… you know… an exit? Is there really no exit around here?" 

" Hm… “ Able scratched the bottom of his cards. “ My brother tried. He really did try. But there is only so much a string of code can do in a digital plain, even if we are quite brilliant at what we do. “

“ He tried?" 

" Oh, yes. I don't remember why he did… but he did. It is all too fuzzy." 

" Can I see it? “

" And embarass him? “ Able laughed " Oh no. Caine hates when people toy around his unfinished work, and its been unfinished for the longest time. How would you feel if I asked to see your first drawing? He would murder me." Able chuckled.

" But-”

" Come, come. Break time is over." His big hand tapped her from behind, making her flinch and walk forward. “Lets go practice your routine again shall we? “

Although it wasn’t a flat ‘no’, something about that answer felt untrustworthy. She looked up at him and his many eyes, looking away when they stared back. Her legs walked stiff around the manor again. She’s grown used to it but not exactly comfortable. 

Pomni would go blind if this kept up. It took her all to not cover her eyes from the burning spotlight, It hurt her retinas but she was told to keep a straight and elegant posture after every show. The crowd was deafening the way they cheered for her, their voices, humanoid, but not exactly. Their cheers would haunt her nightmares, but it's what she clings to if she wishes to stay useful in the circus… 

She did it. She won.

She bowed to the crowd, arm held up by her temporary mentor, showing her off in pride. 

“ The Living Doll, my dear viewers! “

Only the tip of her shoes touched the ground as she stood from her position. In the corner of her eyes she would see Caine clapping, but it wasn't a slow clap by any means. To her surprise it wasn't at all upset. Rather he just clapped… and the familiar feeling of eyes tracking her every move returned.

On one hand, She hopes this means Gangle is spared from any punishment… on the other hand… why?

She didn't know why she had to ask herself that. She had a feeling.

Pomni closed her eyes, and the next thing she knew, she was in her room, being groomed by the mannequins after a hard day of performing.

A shakey sigh left her. Atleast the day was over. She scrunched up when an NPC wiped her face with a wet cloth. Although she was made of wood, she was not prone to a plush exterior. The mannequins groomed her well but admittedly they can get a little aggressive at times.

Most of her routine was finished however. She looked good as new. Simply just had her bow taken out as an NPC brushed her hair to prepare her for bed.

But then,

Creaak… The sound of the door. 

“ A moment alone." 

Pomni’s hair stood up upon hearing his voice. She heard a snap and the next thing she knew the NPCs fell to the ground like piles of rubble, seemingly no longer functioning. His voice was enough. She didn't bother to turn. Her eyes fixated to look at the mirror either as a freeze response or in denial of the situation…

Fully knowing that all NPCs were inactive at the time… a different pair of hands started brushing her hair. 

Pomni swallowed.

Caine hasn't felt her hair himself the whole time she’s been in the circus. He would never usually put himself in the dirty work of a groomer, but that day… he was feeling especially clingy. 

For the next few minutes, nothing but the sound of the hair brush filled the room. Pomni's eyes now trailed down, refusing to look at him even in the mirror, Though at the corner of her vision she would sense him occasionally turning up to look at her. She did not reciprocate. 

“ How was your visit?"

“ Good." Pomni frowned.

“ …What were you doing? Did he treat you well? “

What was it with the brothers and asking her how she felt about them? Oh well. She learned her lesson. “ Able was a great host. He fed me good food and was really patient. He has a way with words and is really good at the violin… he was, uh…classy. And treated me really politely. He even—”

" Stop. “ 

The brushing stopped, 

" Thats enough.” Caine could break the comb with how tight he was holding it. Stop. Stop praising him like everyone else did. He didn't like when his name escaped her lips. He loathed the idea of her spending time with him, getting to know him, adoring him just like everyone else he knew.

Various intrusive thoughts entered his mind. He could pull out all her hair right then, crush her head between his teeth, he didn't know he was capable of such strong emotions until moments like these happened.

Yet it was all hidden in the shadows of his maw. Caine kept his head down, his eyes out of sight. Though that didn't stop Pomni from seeing his clenched fist on the poor comb.

That wasn't the answer he was looking for…?

“ Uhh! On second thought, his - his cooking was a little off… “ Pomni continued. “ I-I don't know what he thought humans liked--… but he was definitely off in his calculations... “

Silence from Caine… but she could sense his grip loosen. He tilted his head back up from his low gaze. 

" Mhm! I say your cooking is a little better! Its good--um- just harder to fully grasp, I guess, which isn't your fault. “

Caine continued to brush her hair. He could stay there for hours to hear her praise him and degrade his brother. It has been a while since he heard anyone criticise Able, and to hear it from the person he wanted from the most made him revel in the feeling.

“ And what is it with his over insistance to be so proper, right? It felt like even breathing was banned around him. “

“ That sounds like him.”Admittedly that one pleased Caine. Although Caine was all for following the rules, Sometimes his brother’s prudence can limit his creativity. He knows it all too well. 

" Was he always like this? “ Pomni asked. 

" And what would happen if I said yes? “

" Nothing. I guess its good to know that he was always that annoying. “

" Ha! “ That one caught him off guard! He put his hands on her shoulders, an olden man’s way of effection or showing pleasure. 

To Pomni it was as releiving as it was terrifying. Her body scrunched up from the sudden touch. “Haha… “ she laughed nervously. It was almost like she could feel herself gaining favor with each laugh. She guesses Caine really felt strongly about his brother. It wasn't her business. 

“ Im sorry to hear your visit was unpleasant. My brother really should have known better." Caine put away the comb on her vanity, and kept his hands on her shoulders. He didn't sound sorry. He didn't even bother to hide his pleasure over the idea. “ Ill make sure he doesn't get his grubby hands on you again… “

" Much appreciated. '' Pomni closed her eyes and nodded, pleased, before opening them back up again in a panic. “ Uh--! Actually, How about no? “

"... No? “

" I-I mean uh…” Pomni limiting her reach around the digital world also meant limiting her reach for a possible exit… but ofcourse, shes not telling Caine that " I-I just had ..so much fun performing for the audience with higher stakes, I guess, you know? Plus-- plus! It might make me more desireable to have big wins every now and then! “

“... I suppose." Caine thought to himself. Perhaps having her around Able a little more might build some resentment. Though Caine admittedly was a little disappointed with that answer. He went quiet again and kept his hands on her shoulders, though this time, a grip that's a little more stiff.

Pomni exhaled… 

shit… change the subject.

Pomni cleared her throat. “Did you… enjoy the performance? “

Caine laughed, a pity laugh. “ I enjoyed it as much as a person can enjoy a pre-planned game, yes. “

“ Huh?"

“ It was rigged, my dear." 

“ Oh…… … … … "

“ You wouldn't actually think I'd let you play fair on your first game would you? The audience would boo you to oblivion. “ Caine continued. 

Pomni looked down, admittedly a little embarrassed. She normally wouldn't care for her work as long as she gets to live another day, but still. Ouch. A blow to her ego.

“ It's alright. It's not your fault that Able can be tacky with his taste in art.” it seems that the more Pomni looked down the more affectionate he got. He placed his would-be chin on her head and continued to look at her eyes in the mirror. “I took control of your body 20…30...50% of the performance and that was that. “

“... Thanks." 

" You're welcome. “ Caine tapped her shoulders and stepped away, back into the air. He snapped his fingers and the mannequins previously on the floor re-assembled, back to walking and moving like nothing happened. 

Caine moved closer to the door.  “ Now get ready for bed! We have another routine to do first thing in the morning! How exciting.“

Before she could say anything else, Caine was out. Pomni let out little exhausted groans and put her forehead down on the table. “Augghh! God!" She put her hands on her head, just about ready to have her fourth mental breakdown. “ I can't… I CAN’T. I hate this place!”

The mannequins didn't know how to groom her in that position, and so they simply put her bow back on, and gave her a pat on the head. 

She stayed in that position for a little longer, quiet, just letting it all seep in. While she wallowed, the mannequins left her with the room since they finished their work. Now, it was only Pomni by herself.

She took a breath and turned her head up. Chin on the vanity, looking up at the mirror. She stared at the reflection, the constant reminder of her digital prison, and sighed.

It's okay, Pomni.

We have a plan. 

This isn't over yet. 

[thescarletnargacuga]

okay so you know how in cartoons there will be little gags like hearts forming around someone when they’re in love? lol so i was thinking that in the digital world (raceway mayhaps? whatever you’d prefer to write though!) that happens to caine when he’s around pomni, she finds it cute so she kind of flirts a bit to gauge that reaction <3

A/N: like I need an excuse to write more Raceway LMAO

HEARTS

A RACEWAY AU SHOWTIME ONE SHOT

WARNING: none

~~~

"POMNI WINS!!" Caine announced from above the roaring crowd in the stands. The finish line flashed gold as Pomni zoomed through, beating Jax by a nose. Ragatha and Gummigoo tied for third. Kinger, Gangle and Zooble meandered in at their own pace.

Pomni did celebratory donuts in the winner's circle; smoke from her tires throwing literal shade at Jax. After she had her fun, she jumped out of her kart to greet Caine for her reward. "What did I win this time, handsome?" She was still feeling the effects of the race rush, emboldening her to openly flirt in front of the others.

Caine wasn't expecting her boldness and completely forgot what he was going to say. "Uhhhhh, heh..." He blushed lightly and kicked his feet. A small red heart flew from his chest and fluttered around his head. "I, uh... ahem your reward for this race is a golden hedgehog statue."

A small, prickly trophy appeared mid air and dropped in Pomni's hands, but she wasn't interested in the statue. She was intrigued by the little fluttering heart dancing around Caine's hat. "What's that?" She pointed to the heart.

Caine shooed the heart away, and it disappeared in a puff of glitter. He put his hands behind his back, and looked away nervously. "Don't- don't mind that. It's just a silly game mechanic I can't uninstall. It happens sometimes."

Pomni arched an eyebrow. "It happened after I called you handsome. Did you like that?"

Caine blushed furiously. "Oh! Um. Yes. Kind of. Just a little. It's a nice compliment. I don't get a lot of those, so it must have triggered the heart. Thank you, for saying that."

"I can say a lot more." Pomni smirked.

Literally everyone was still standing there. Including the track. Nothing had changed since Pomni won. Not that Caine noticed. He has suddenly found himself with a serious case of tunnel vision. He hovered lower, more on her level. "There is no need, dear...but if you want to... maybe one more?"

"You're incredibly creative, smart and funny. " Pomni started, testing the waters.

Two little hearts flew from Caine's chest. He put his hand over his heart and smiled warmly. The genuine compliments made him feel fuzzy.

"Every track you build is uniquely entertaining. Your hard work doesn't go unnoticed."

Five hearts now danced around the top of Caine's head, he felt a little dizzy. "Wow Pomni, thank you, but you don't need to-"

"You're fun to be around. My day doesn't feel complete until I've seen you." Pomni's smile widened, amused by the comical number of hearts.

Seven hearts whizzed around his head and torso. "-oh, you have more." He felt short of breath.

Pomni took his hand and gently held it to her cheek. She was blushing a little now, too. "Your touch makes me feel safe."

A dozen hearts flew around like nats, zipping and swooping in random directions. He held her face with both hands. "Pomni...you're playing with fire." He gently warned, his eyes watching her lips.

"Your beauty has never scared me." Pomni put her hands on his waist.

Hearts appeared in Caine's eyes. "How brave." He was swooning hard.

"Not as brave as this." Pomni grabbed Caine from the air, dipped him and kissed his lower teeth.

Caine's eyes went wide as multiple hearts flew from his chest, flying around and popping with little sparkling bursts. Chills went through his whole body, not expecting Pomni to take initiative. He kissed her back, closing his teeth and holding the back of her head.

Ragatha, Gangle, and Gummigoo whooped and whistled. Jax gagged but Zooble wouldn't let him ruin the moment, threatening to strangle him if he tried anything. Kinger found some neat beetles.

The kiss, as simple as it was, left both Caine and Pomni breathless. Hearts were everywhere, swarming around them. Caine melted in Pomni's arms. He had the goofiest smile, and his eyes were half lidded as though he were intoxicated.

Caine suddenly felt heavy in Pomni's arms as he could no longer focus on flying. He flumped to the ground and Pomni laughed. She fell to her hands and knee next to him. "Are you okay?"

"mmmmmmmhm." Caine mumbled, the hearts in his eyes going crazy. The flying hearts kept coming, showering them in colorful mini confetti. "I think I'm in love with you..."

Pomni snorted. "I never would have guessed. You're just so subtle."

Caine giggled airily. "As a track wreck."

Pomni laughed harder and kissed the front of his top teeth. "And I wouldn't have you any other way."

Caine almost cried. The affection was too much, he was overwhelmed in the best way. "Next time....I'm kissing you first." He was determined to have her turn into jelly like she just did to him.

"I'll hold you to that." Pomni smiled down at Caine.

~~~

BONUS: Seth

He and Pomni were locked in another one on one. No other racers around. He was about to steal a surprise box from her when she locked her kart to keep going and jumped to his motorcycle.

He sat up straight with surprise to have Pomni practically in his lap. Being in front of him, she touched the box first and the item went to her.

"HA! Suck it, Seth!" She jumped back to her kart, making his motorcycle wobble a bit off balance.

He blinked, staring back at her as she got herself situated in her kart. He didn't register that she was looking back until he saw the glimmer of a shell in his peripheral. He didn't react fast enough. The shell hit him and knocked him off his motorcycle. He and the vehicle tumbled across the track.

He sat up and watched Pomni speed off into the distance. A tiny black heart popped into existence next to him. He did a double take. "What the- SHIT! FUCK! NO! SHOO!!" He swatted away the heart.

He dusted himself off and whistled for his bike. It uprighted itself and idled next to him, ready to go get Pomni. He mounted it and stretched his shoulders. "Alright, little miss trouble. You wanna play hardball? Let's play."

He sped off and teleported to jump sections of the track to catch up.

[the-s1lly-corner]

TADC characters x reader crying and the characters are trying to calm the reader down

TADC cast finding the reader crying!

WOOOOOO so sorry for not getting to requests sooner, i was busy today and caught up in doing a bunch of baking orders! yahoo! i made a buncha scones today and churros :)! i might make pretzels tomorrow for myself also ive never watched one piece but im absolutely obsessed with chopper VV

CAINE:

"now now my dear, what's wrong?" immediately takes you off to a private area away from prying eyes and ears. surprisingly a good listener, i mean he cares about you so so much, youre like. his number one, so of course hes going to be looking out for you. tries his best to cheer you up, regardless of whats making you so upset; another circus member, being overwhelmed, or your brain just being mean... this man would literally carry the world for you.. well a digital world, but the sentiment still stands i think..! just say the word and hes going to do whatever it takes to cheer you up!

POMNI:

very awkward comforter, i think i might have said this somewhere; in fact i may have had a similar request to this a while ago but i truly do not remember and i cant be bothered to look through the sea of TADC stuff ive written... but she would be SO bad at comforting people; like she just stands there before awkwardly patting your back. and thats assuming she goes through with the action, theres a solid chance she just. asks outright if youre okay in this nervous voice trying to be gentle. its not her fault i prommy, shes just bad at comforting people. offers to take you to her room so you have some privacy, kind of just lets you let it all out

RAGATHA:

again i might be biased for ragatha because ive really fallen in love with her since i opened up requests but she would be the absolute queen of comfort. speaks in a really soft voice as she takes you off to yours or her room, sets you down on the bed and lets you lean on her for support (metaphorically and literally!). gives you the softest blankets and pillows, and simply lets you pour your heart out. asks if you want comfort or solutions; because both have their time and place i think. sometimes you want solutions, and sometimes you just want pure comfort. ragatha gets it. and whichever one you want, shes going to deliver on it! will likely take it upon herself to try to solve the issue if its an external thing that made you upset. 10/10 love her

JAX:

believe or not i think he would be the type to try to confront the thing upsetting you yourself, especially if it was someone who had upset you. best way i can explain it is like. you know that one pizza episode of spongebob where squidward stands up for spongebob to that rude customer who made him cry? it would have the same energy, i think. asshole who actually has a heart stepping in to defend someone when there needs to be justice type deal. now if he was the one who made you upset, say by one of his pranks, then it might take him a minute for the guilt to kick in but it would be there... eventually. does feel bad, tries to cheer you up and does try to apologize, i think

KINGER:

oddly enough i think he would be up there in terms of how good he is with comforting people! i say odd because he seems so out of it a lot of the time. but i think the second he sees your tears hes just laser focused. very similar to ragatha in terms that he takes you away and lets you speak. to the pillow fort! lets you cry into the fur of his robe, too... rubs circles into your back. this man carries the same level of comfort that sweet old people carry, if that makes sense. the type of person so say "ive got you" when comforting someone, i think

ZOOBLE:

has to do a double take when they see you crying. like pomni i think theyre bad at comforting... but not as much, if that makes sense. if it was someone who had made you upset, they probably try to tell you that they arent worth the time of day and that youre better than them. strikes them with the curse of them also giving you awkward back and shoulder pats, but its even more awkward and uncomfortable because they have weird hard plastic hands. look, ok. theyre trying, theyre likely trying their best too- honestly i think their main form of comfort is talking shit about the person or thing that made you feel bad

GANGLE:

honestly she might cry with you. admittedly i dont see gangle herself being the best comforter when someone is crying; especially if its someone she cares so deeply about. i think like everyone else, she would gently take her hands in yours and guide you off to the side so you can have some privacy and decency. she does try her best to try to cheer you up; and i think that she would have better luck with it if her comedy mask isnt broken! but if it is, its likely that shes going to cry with you. probably leads to vent sesh between the two of you where you vent to one another and cry. hey, that works too, i think! not to say that she is trying to purposefully trying to make it about herself too, but like. her way of empathizing with you. "oh hey we're both having a bad day, let me show how i can relate to you so you feel less alone" type deal

[livi-in-digital-circus]

To be loved

For day 3 of Bunnydoll Week 2024 - Children

Ethan had had enough. Ever since his and Owyn’s younger sister had been born, it seemed that everyone in the circus had forgotten about him. He knew little Arabella had serious health problems and had to stay under their parents’ observation most of the time, but that didn’t mean the twins weren’t important.

The younger rag bunny threw another rock into the Digital Lake. His brother was probably looking for bugs with Kinger since he was the chess piece’s favorite ‘grandchild’. In fact, no one liked Ethan except Mom, Dad, and Owyn. He was always fooling around, destroying the props on adventures, and was locked in his room by Caine a few times. Sometimes he even thought that Ragatha only loved him because he was her child, when in reality she was deeply disappointed by his behavior.

A single tear fell from his eye. He was just a kid.

“You okay, kiddo?”

Ethan wiped away the tear and turned to face his father. Jax had his hands in the pockets of his overalls and a look of exhaustion on his face. He had been sitting with Ellie for the last two hours, occasionally rubbing her tiny head to soothe her.

“How’s Mama doing?”

“Still needs some time to recover.” Jax sighed. He hated to admit that watching over their newborn was quite a challenge for him, especially since Ellie’s condition was still a mystery for Caine to solve. Ragatha was not feeling any better. She hadn’t gotten out of bed since the birth, needing a lot of rest. All the circus members were required to help with the fussy rag bunny, who was still uncomfortable with a button in place of her left eye. Even though she was only a digital being, the pain she felt was strangely as real as possible.

There was a moment of silence between father and son before Ethan decided to say what was on his mind. He was stubborn and grumpy, definitely taking more after Jax. But like any other kid, his mentality was fragile.

“Why no one loves me?”

Jax’s eyes widen. He had softened a lot over the years, but only when it came to Ragatha and their children. To hear his own son ask him the same question he had asked himself when he was much younger was something he hadn’t expected at all. Did this mean that he had failed as a father?

He was no saint, that was more than obvious. But on the day the twins were born, he promised himself that he would not be like his own parents. Yes, from time to time he called them little [BEEP]s, however, that was just his way of showing affection.

“What the- what are you talking about?” Jax tried to keep the tone of his voice stern, but the slight tremble was definitely there. “Stop talking nonsense, kiddo. Mom loves you, Owyn loves you, and I love you. Hell, even Kinger loves you! And don’t think otherwise.”

“But Uncle Caine locks me in my room and won’t let me play with the others.”

“Because you’re annoying him.”

“Annoying him is fun.” Ethan pouted, his short leg kicking a larger rock. How could something that was supposed to be a mix of both Jax and Ragatha turn out to be almost an exact copy of his father? “You annoy him too.”

Damn, this kid was too smart for his own good. Jax wanted to say something, but he knew he should refrain from some words. Instead, he just crouched down and put both of his hands on Ethan’s shoulders.

“Listen, Ethan. I’m not good at this whole dad talk, but let me tell you something.” He took a deep breath before continuing. “It’s not the number of people that matters most when it comes to loving someone, as long as their love is genuine. I remember your mother crying with happiness when she saw the two of you for the first time. But you were annoyingly noisy compared to Owyn, I almost grabbed you by the onesie and threw you in the Digital Lake.”

The rag bunny let out a giggle, his father’s words immediately making him feel a little better. Seeing the change in mood, Jax smiled under his breath but didn’t stop his monologue.

“Then you became extremely clingy and wouldn’t let Mom leave you in someone else’s arms, even for a while. She gave you lots of hugs and kisses, even more than she gave me! So if you think she doesn’t love you, then I’m sorry, buddy, but you’re so wrong.”

“She loves me even when I cause too much chaos?”

“Ethan, [BEEP], she would give her life for you, Owyn, and Ellie. Causing chaos doesn’t mean you don’t deserve her love, and I know that from experience.”

Without saying anything, Ethan snuggled into Jax’s soft fur. Comfort from his dad was all he needed right now and he was more than happy to get it. Even though he knew full well that it was Ragatha's words that Jax quoted regarding love.

Still, it was enough to make him believe he was truly loved.

“You know your old man used to steal my centipedes?” Kinger handed Owyn a butterfly net, ready for another bug hunt. “But I found them all, thanks to your mama! Weird, right?”

“Mama doesn’t like centipedes.” The oldest rag bunny spun around with the net, which was bigger than he was. It was fascinating that he was interested in bugs at such a young age, unlike Ethan.

Both twins were going through a hard time, they hadn’t even had a chance to get to know their younger sister properly. Not to mention that they had barely seen their mother in the last few weeks. Owyn, being the calmer one, handled the situation better and tried to spend as much time with Ethan as possible. Their behavior was different, but there were still twins who cared so much for each other. The moment Owyn saw his brother enter the main area, he immediately ran up to him.

“Ethan! Do you want to catch butterflies with us?”

“Huh? Oh, not really.”

“Actually.” Jax suddenly came up behind them, causing the younger twin to jump. He grinned and then put his hands on the boys’ shoulders. “How about we go see how Mama and Ellie are doing?”

“We can?!” The twins shouted in unison.

“Only if you don’t tell anyone.”

Jax and Ragatha’s shared bedroom was larger than the rest as it was created by erasing the wall between their separate rooms. It was pure coincidence that they were next to each other. Before the twins arrived, Caine made a few changes, like adding a double bed and some baby supplies.

At that moment, Ragatha was lying on the bed with baby Ellie nestled against her chest. After a few hours of soothing the newborn, they finally managed to get her to sleep. Ragatha yawned, growing increasingly tired and desperate to rest as well. Just as she was about to close her non-button eye, the door opened and she soon felt two more rag bunnies clinging to her.

“Ah, hello my babies. I missed you so much.” Gently, she lifted a hand to stroke her sons’ heads. “Just remember to be quiet. We don’t want to wake your sister from her peaceful slumber.”

Ethan leaned out from behind Ragatha’s back and his eyes widened the moment he saw Ellie for the first time. She was tiny, her chest rising and falling slowly. The missing left eye didn't make her any uglier, honestly, the blue button added a certain charm to her already adorable appearance.

Jax lay down as well, admiring his daughter and especially his wife, who was more than close to dozing off. Owyn also changed position, squeezing in between his parents’ legs to make sure Ellie had plenty of space around her so as not to disturb her.

“Come here, buddy.” The rabbit pawed at the spot between him and Owyn. Ethan smiled and immediately hopped onto the mattress.

For the first time in his life, he actually felt loved.

Thanks for reading!

[hootbon]

Im so so sorry but your au really has me thinking

1. Are the grounds ever "safe"?

2. And earlier you mentioned the eclipse is a cycle, is it ever light outside? Does this affect the hostility of the npcs or make them despawn like a minecraft thing?

3. Since earlier you said the gang could fight them off in a group, how strong are outside npcs anyway?

4. I just remembered zooble is the strongman of the circus, how well would they do in fighting off the npcs if she HAD to go outside?

5. Are there aquatic themed npcs in the digital lake? Or is the water just totally toxic and uninhabitable?

6. What's the digital carnival like?

7. hc that kinger is just this absolute unit but his insanity/opposite-of-hostility is stopping him from putting it to good use

8. Does Caine have a "good side"?

9. What's the worst punishment Caine has given a circus member?

9.5. What's the worst punishment POSSIBLE that caine could give to a circus member?

10. Who would win in a fight, the gangles (assuming the gangles have been provoked into a fighting/hostile mood) or zooble (assuming zooble had been angred)?

This is such a good au I'm sorry for the bombardment of questions

I’m not mad really, I love the questions

During showtime hours, the audience will be busy by then

There is light but it’s akin to dawn/dusk, they don’t despawn though.. it’s just much easier to see and avoid them

I did say that but.. it’s more of a delaying inevitable, the npcs are more so strong in numbers than they are physically.. that and they keep spawning back

She’d last longer than the rest

The lake is more so toxic to the touch. I’d avoid it

Oh boy.. it’s got pretty good stuff there, pretty fun too! It’s the worst place to visit if you planned to escape them. It’s like one of those extreme levels in a game they give you early on.

I’d imagine he’s got the smarts and experience but he knows better than to go out there

This is his good side

Involuntary silence

He could always just sit you in the basement.. there are still abstractions in there. Or lock you outside.. pick your poison

Zooble.. nobody fucks with zooble

[arandomnerd810]

TADC EP 2 SPOILERS

putting down all my thoughts and stuff i’ve noticed lets gooo

AAAAAAAAAGDEKNSQKDFUNFSIDANIVUFDN OMG IT WAS SO CUTEEEEHKQVSHKUHSQDFKHSDF I LOVED IT SO MUCHHH

i’m gonna speak in periods for the first paragraph since it’s very long but do not get me wrong i don’t wana be serious sounding it’s just to make these paragraphs more readable excuse the rambling

Caine posting section cause he’s my special intrest

satisfaction Caine wise 10/10

first the elephant in the room as Caine’s #1 fan yep still his number one fan! Serial Designation N killed tons of people yet nobody in the fandom cares, and Caine doesn’t get people well so he had no ill intention. rlly my opinion of him has not changed he’s still my silly lil goober no matter what he does. i’ve always known he will do horrible things and been expecting this to happen ever since Pomni gave the idea to bring him to the circus. Gummigoo had a sir pentious like death so i wouldn’t be surprised if we see him again.

he may be an asshole but he’s my asshole ❤️❤️

now that that’s out of the way a little glimpse of Caine angst is all i could have asked for in this ep 🫶🫶🫶🫶🫶🫶 like cmon everyone has to agree insecure much?

Caine posting over cause my god have i gotten more attached to everyone else aswell! (ofc Caine’s still my fav by far)

satisfaction with everything else 10/10

the fact that this wasn’t censored normally (no wacky sounds or the censor bar) and how Caine reacted with “you can’t say that…” could imply bubble said all of this out loud uncensored which is very funny to me

I love Ragatha she’s so sweet look at her ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

I wana see where everyone’s friendship goes from here! they are already so adorableeee

still a sucker for found family dynamics

the fact Jax wasn’t here but still was upset is :( as much as i like to bully him, i love him just as much as any other human character. i’m the most interested in his episode cause he’s a mysterious guy( and i may or may not have a sneaking feeling like ill relate to him a little even though our personalities are practically polar opposite)

Kinger is so fatherly auughofewhiuhefvw the fact he’s old enough to have kids and is more likely than not married to Queenie imagine he had kids before coming here they would only be in like middle school ish cause he’s not even that old that’s sad af

GANGLE COLLECTS ANIME FIGURESSSS!! SHES JUST LIKE ME FRRR!

this really makes me want to buy the gangle plushie i’m thinking i’m gonna do it lmaooo

the fact she started crying 😭😭

Zooble wasn’t taking part in the adventure cause they were setting up Kaufmo’s graveee i love him sm

GANGLE ART!!

It’s really funny how chilled out Bubble was here

merch talk timeeee

sneak peaks of the rooms mayhaps?

Let’s just hope there’s only memes around it and not another figure incident….

welp going onto grab the Gangle plushie i’ve decided

real talk i’m actually happy TADC got so popular cause ive made a friend through it already and strengthened old ones since info dumping is the only form of communication my braincells can handle well lmaooo it’s crazy how many of my friends have decided to watch my special interest

[big-old-bee]

About your angel and demon au? What are the abstracted? And what is the reason for both angels and demons to work together? Also, how would the relationships between everyone develop?

So I am still working through some things for this AU, but this is what I got so far

The “abstracted” are beings of pure malice that have no thoughts but to destroy and take others down with them. No one knows for sure where or how they came to be, but it is possible to become corrupted by them if one comes into close contact with them for a prolonged period of time. They look similar to what we have seen in the pilot.

The angels and devils are two distinct races that have different beliefs, cultures, ideas which at times has caused tensions between the two groups. Both sides tend to stick to their ways and try not to interact with the other if possible.

Lately, the “abstracted” have risen in number and it has become harder to take them down. Caine, leader of the angel team, decides to bring together his team and Queenie’s as a ways to help show to the world that both angels and devils can come together to fight their common enemy. A few members of the team (Gangle, Zooble, Kinger) are hesitant at first while others (Ragatha, Jax) are downright against teaming up. Pomni is one of the few glad to have more members to help fight the abstracted.

In the beginning, most of the members stick to doing what they did before, not really trying to get along. However, after an incident that leaves one of them almost abstracting, the group decides to get serious and work together rather than apart.

The relationships for this Au are:

Jax x ragatha - these two are definitely a enemies to lovers, with Jax being a tease and flirt which annoys Ragatha to no end in the beginning. She eventually comes to grow feelings for him, with Jax slowly starting to fall for her shortly after

Queenie x Kinger - these two are the oldest and have seen many friends and comrades fall at the hands of the abstracted. Yet this doesn’t stop them from growing closer and spending time with one another ( they act like young teens in love 🥰). They are the first to become an item amongst the team aren’t afraid to be lovey-dovey in front of their teammates

Caine x pomni - love at first sight (in Caines case). He tries to not give Pomni too much attention as he wants to stay a fair leader but will get carried away when it comes to her. Pomni is oblivious to it all and thinks of him as a “nice and kind leader who fights well”😅

Hopefully this answers some of your questions!

[jullinh4x]

My TADC Headcanons!

Pomni

See Ragatha and Jax as mother and father <3

She's terrible at juggling

She's lesbian

Fixes Gangle's mask when breaks

She doesn't like wearing her jester's hat because is uncomfortable for her

Likes to hug Ragatha to feel comfortable

Likes to sleep and listen to music

Enjoy sleeping in Kinger's pillow "lair"

Ragatha

Likes to comfort Pomni :D

Treats Pomni like a daughter

Loves watching the movie Raggedy Ann & Andy: A Musical Adventure

Like the song Rag Dolly

She's bisexual :>

Does not like being compared to other doll characters, ex: Annabelle

Tickles Jax's ears

Hates centipedes and any type of crawling insect

Jax

He likes bunnies, that's why he's a bunny

In fact, he is bald

He keeps breaking Gangle's mask, but apologizes to her in the end (once in a while)

He's heterosexual

Has an obsession with the color lilac

He is KUTE's number one fan

Even though he's an idiot, he's still nice with the circus members

Always wakes up and sleeps late

Sometimes he dances randomly ;-;

Gangle

She is Otaku ◉⁠‿⁠◉

Likes Pomni because she simply fixes her mask

Likes to draw in her room

Her favorite anime is Glitter Force

She makes cute noises because in the real world she was considered cute

Likes cute things

She is the most innocent in the circus

Likes children's songs

Loves magical girl movies and series

She's asexual

Zooble

Likes geometric shapes

They is very arrogant

They is non-binary

Doesn't like hugs

They doesn't like sleeping in their room because he finds it uncomfortable, so they sleeps in Kinger's pillow "lair"

Hates their physical appearance :|

Doesn't like being taken apart

They keeps trying to strangle Jax because they hates him

Doesn't like receiving nicknames

Kinger

He's paranoid

Lives shaking because of his anxiety and paranoia

He was the first to join the circus, with his wife (Quennie)

He's heterosexual

Likes chess, that's why he's a chess piece

Because he was the first member of the digital circus, he saw everything...

Likes to sleep in his "lair" of pillows

Likes to dance in secret

Don't like what people say and think about the way he walk ＼⁠(⁠◎⁠o⁠◎⁠)⁠／

Caine

Don't like going to the dentist

Is married with the moon

Treats the circus members like a family

He sleeps hugging Bubble because he thinks he's really cute

He's pansexual

Doesn't like being called dentures

Likes digital potatoes and toothpaste

He doesn't like the music Jax listens to because he thinks it's inappropriate

Anyway, these are my Headcanons, I hope you liked them and remember that I was based on information confirmed by @gooseworx !

[mable-stitchpunk]

Dazed and Amused- TADC fic- Teaser

It was a typical day in the Digital Circus.

Everyone had just gotten finished unclogging the pipe maze of an infestation of surprisingly aggressive gummy worms. A fantastic adventure that was clearly just Caine giving them busy work that he didn’t want to do himself.

“Excellent job in snaking those drains! And in record time too! You should allll be proud of yourselves. Look at Bubble, he’s thrilled! He’s so happy! He’s… Bubble, goodness me, STOP. Whatever you’re doing, please!"

Bubble turned to face a cringing Caine with a mouth overflowing in half-chewed gummy worms. Them slowly sliding out of his mouth as he replied.

“Sowwy boss.”

“Ahem, in any case…” Caine turned back to the others with a little spin of his cane. “I think you all deserve a just reward and a day out, soooo… We’re going to the DIGITAL CARNIVAL!”

There were some mixed reactions amongst the group, but one was very vocal.

“Really?! Hurray!” Gangle cheered, clapping her ribbons. Her comedy mask still stuck firmly to her face. It was a wonder with how lost she had gotten during their excursion.

As a matter of fact, it was the longest Gangle had gone in a while without breaking that mask. So, instead of her typically sulking self, she was overflowing with excitement, bouncing in place.

And it was all because Jax too had gotten lost in that stupid maze. He gave the masked tangle of ribbons a slightly irritated look.

“Ugh,” he groaned in exaggeration.

He made a show of it but, much to his continued displeasure, Gangle took absolutely no notice of it. Someone else did though, the ragdoll standing directly to his right who quickly chimed in.

“Well, you’re the one who’s always claiming that everyone’s too gloomy. You should be happy she’s happy,” Ragatha whispered to him.

“I said she was being a drag. I didn’t say I wanted her to become annoying,” Jax clarified.

Ragatha rolled her eyes from him to Pomni. Giving her a ‘are you hearing this?’ sort of look.

Pomni looked back with a visibly uneasy look replacing her tired one from a few moments ago. That was right, Ragatha realized. Pomni hadn’t gotten a chance to go to the Digital Carnival, and she could only be wary at Caine’s enthusiasm.

“Don’t worry, Pomni. This is going to be fun! The Digital Carnival is great, really,” Ragatha assured.

Before Pomni could even reply, Caine literally inserted himself into the conversation by popping up in between them. It made Pomni jump and even Ragatha took a partial step back in surprise.

“And now it is even better!” he proclaimed. “I have updated it with more rides, more attractions, more prizes, and plenty more bug fixes!”

“Bugs?” Kinger snapped his head over with a confused blink.

“Oh yes! The, erm, minor issues from last time are a thing of the past! For example, the roller coaster- the cars no longer fly off the track!”

“Aww, but Caine, that was the best part! Coming down at breakneck speeds and then fl-ying off at the turn and breaking our necks,” Jax mockingly complained.

“I’m sorry, Jax. I know you like the thrills, but safety is this park’s number one concern!” Caine insisted, Jax’s shtick flying right over his head. Caine then leaned in and whispered behind his hand- loudly, mind you- “We also have a tunnel of looove~.” He winked.  

“Oh that’s…” Ragatha said back with an awkward smile. She stole a look to Jax and saw the absolute look of offense and disbelief that was now on his face. She squeezed her hands together. “That’s great.”

Jax looked at her with just straight-up disbelief now.

“It is! Especially for any love birds tweeting about,” Caine hinted. If that wasn’t obvious enough, he then nudged Pomni repeatedly until he was sure she got it too.

Ragatha only kept smiling to cover her embarrassment.

“I think you’re tweeting outta your- Wait, if we’re going… Shotgun!” Jax suddenly cried. He thrust an arm up in the air as his face broke into an eager smile.

Ragatha pursed her lips as she realized what she had inadvertently let happen again.

“Why, you eager beaver you! Of course you can drive, Jax! I appreciate the initiative,” Caine complemented.

The others weren’t nearly as thrilled. Gangle was making sure to hold her mask on, Kinger got a downright dazed look, and Zooble gave a loud groan.

“God, Jax, didn’t feel like giving anyone else a chance?” Zooble asked.

“Nope! You snooze you lose, Picasso,” Jax said, strutting by.

“What just happened?” Pomni asked for clarification.

“Jax is driving again,” Ragatha sighed. She rubbed her arm. “He’s… a little bit of a leadfoot.”

“…Wait, we have a car?!”

Ragatha laughed a little. “You could call it that… but I wouldn’t.”

“…That doesn’t bode well!” Pomni said with a tense smile.

[anime-owo-kage-san]

What I made so far in “The Amazing Digital Musical”:

Designs might change, if I change my mind about it.

(Caine, Zooble, and Bubble will be made soon.)

No, I will not be hearing any questions about Gangle’s design. Thank you very much.

The characters (that were made at the moment):

Pomni - The newest addition to the digital musical world. For whatever reason, she first popped into the world in a jester costume and stayed like that for probably three days.

- Eventually, Caine changed her appearance to look more princess-like. Since, as far as he’s observed from her behavior, he said that she gives off the vibes of a disney princess; feeling trapped, but sings to pass the time, but still looking for a way out of her imprisonment.

(I wanted to make her wear something on her head, but whether it was a crown or jester hat, it made her head look stupid. So no headwear for Pomni in this AU huhu).

- Not that she ever said it out loud, but it was growing to be very obvious how she actually enjoyed singing. She felt ridiculous at first, but hey? She may think the adventures are awful, but why should she think the same way about the musical numbers? It was the nicest way to pass the time in here, compared to the other shit Caine puts them through.

First song she sings: https://open.spotify.com/track/3yQyFMC5oXTPbtsqyJ8nWQ?si=sGCpRszPQVOiHPGB1qJ5eA

Ragatha - From her outfit, you can tell she sings in a more jazz style. (Her outfit was supposed to look like this: https://images.app.goo.gl/TCeuq1ThfFcFqeyq7 )

- Caine was about to give her a more uuhhh…. soft? genre, because of the doll thing. But, Ragatha asked for a more flashy look for her character. (Mainly because, she was getting sick of being compared to the generic doll personality.)

- It wasn’t a bad choice of genre for her character either. She had the voice for it, and knew the moves.

Her introductory song: https://open.spotify.com/track/2efFD04Rkc54XxU8RRApCc?si=12FOrdspTquOJ7y7E8YtfA

(But, picture it in a more in a slow jazzy cover.)

Jax - Doesn’t exactly have a singular genre he specializes at… He just sings “modern” songs, like rock and rapping. He just goes with whatever suits the mood, in Caine’s cued musical numbers. But, when it’s his own will, he’ll do it in however the hell he wants.

- Does he like it? Not really, but he’s pretty confident with his voice. He’s sick of the singing and dancing, but pretending to be a celebrity in his own delusions, makes him feel less frustrated.

If you express your problem with him directly to him, he’ll ask for Zooble to play him his beat, and respond with this self-written masterpiece—he likes to call it: https://open.spotify.com/track/1UjJ032BXNAiV6lVZQB7iU?si=x3TatSC5S_qqq-h_f1rnfA

(HA! You all thought, I was gonna put Jax Toy, didn’t you?)

Gangle - The only one in the “cast” who’s type of music doesn’t fit with everything else. To her disappointment J-pop and anime songs, aren’t exactly suitable for musicals. So, Caine only allowed regular pop.

- But, not to worry, while she can’t sing it in the musical numbers, she’s still allowed to during karaoke nights and in the comfort of her own room.

- Another way of making it up to her, Caine let Gangle dress up as a J-pop idol anyway.

- (I have no idea for her “solo song” yet, sorry. Maybe you guys can throw in some ideas.)

Kinger - He plays the piano. (Literally the only instrument he knows how to play.) He prefers playing classical music, and singing slowl romance songs, but he will sing in the same style the others are when he’s supposed to.

- He’s usually an unhinged old man. The only time he’s ever calm is when he’s playing on his piano, like he was serenading a ghost of someone he loved. (Ahem…)

Solo? Uhhh this one? (But skip to the Kinger bit): https://open.spotify.com/track/0fUOq7xSbQ5myDBZIJNafT?si=VLTyRN0YRBCfNoYoTaxubg

- All characters have a preferred genre/taste in music. But, that doesn’t mean that’s the only genre they can sing.

- Think Total Drama World Tour.

That’s all for now. Though, this AU isn’t as well made and finalized as the other TADC AUs, feel free to ask me anything about it.

[glitchedgoalie]

☆ –– (mason gooding, he/him/his, cismale) who is TYLER KING anyways? ew. you don’t know about HIM, we’ll bet you want to. they’re feeling TWENTY-EIGHT and BAKING COOKIES feels like a perfect night to them. rumor has it they’re MOODY and CLINGY because they care, but they’re also PATIENT and HONEST in the best way. HE works to make a little money as a(n) (BACKUP) GOALIE FOR THE NEW YORK RANGERS. they’ve rented a place on cornelia street in the form of AN APARTMENT. GLITCH(A)/HITS DIFFERENT (A) is the song they could dance to the beat of forevermore.

basics.

full name: tyler james king. nicknames: most people go with ty. some people go with tj.his teammates call him kinger, mostly. gender/pronouns: cismale/he/him/his. sexual orientation: bisexual. birthday: february 28th. star sign: pisces are known to be adaptable, creative, romantic, intuitive...and indecisive. occupation: backup goaltender for the new york rangers. character inspo: take the best part of the scott brothers from oth and put them together, also a little bit of matt saracen from friday night lights.

personality.

positive traits: intuitive, patient, kind, creative, adaptability. negative traits: clingy, moody, sometimes obsessive/one-track minded, indecisive. hogwarts house: i know jkr sucks and we do not claim her but the she is a burned gryffindor (bottom third). alignment: chaotic good ennegram: 2w1 personality type: infp.

backstory.

ty and his siblings grew up mostly with their grandparents. their dad was in the military and never came home from his last deployment. his mom skipped town on them when ty was six. he doesn't really remember her.

what he does remember is his grandpa teaching him how to skate around that time. the ice was an escape for him. when he was flying around that frozen sheet, nothing could touch him. so he threw himself into it. he played on various youth teams and ultimately found that he loved playing goalie and that he was good at it, too. he never left the net after that first game.

because of their home situation, ty knew that if he wanted to go to college, he'd need a scholarship. so he trained hard, kept his grades up, and earned a scholarship to boston college.

he studied psychiatry mostly because it was a fairly easy course load that he could balance with his demanding athletic schedule, but he fell in love with it and really enjoyed his schoolwork.

the plan was always the nhl. he wanted to make enough money to pay his grandparents back for raising him and his siblings. he wanted to get them out of their tiny apartment and into a real house. ty backed up his freshman year, but he got the net his sophomore year and put up some dazzling numbers, helping his team get to the national championship...where they lost to their crosstown rival boston university.

the loss lit a fire under him and he trained hard over the off-season. his junior season started just where the last one left off: he led the conference in shutouts, goals against average, and wins. then, during a rematch against BU, an opposing player hit him just right and his left leg buckled, then got pinned against the post. he felt his ankle pop. that was it. junior season, gone. he'd broken his ankle in three placed and required surgery and physical therapy to even have a shot at returning to the ice.

but he did it. he followed his doctors' orders and was cleared to return for his senior season. only the school had recruited a younger goaltender, and he only played a handful of games that year. still, he showed up to practices and games with a smile on his face and was the best damn bench door opener the team could ask for. he hyped the boys up and helped out wherever he could. and they almost got the championship that year, but fell just short once again.

not playing consistently caused his draft stock to plummet. he wasn't drafted, but he did get an invite to the bruins' development camp.

ty didn't make the team out of camp, but he was offered a minor league contract with the team. he battled two years in the echl before finding his footing in the american hockey league, one step down from the nhl. he wasn't making sidney crosby money, but he was comfortable. and he sent as much as he could back to his grandparents in connecticut.

it was during his time in providence that ty fell in love for the first time. sure, he'd had relationships in college, but nothing serious. this was real. this was going to be forever...until it wasn't.

the breakup hit him hard and caused his performance on the ice to suffer. he was almost sent down to the echl again. but ty buckled down, strung together a few good games, and helped his team win the calder cup in 2022.

and then he was traded away that summer. he wasn't even the big piece of that trade. the bruins were getting a star winger and they had used him to sweeten the deal. so he packed up his shit and moved to hartford to start the whole process over.

he played well in hartford. enough that when the rangers' starting goalie got injured and they needed a backup for their backup, he got called up. and, as it turns out, the starter had to have the same season-ending surgery that ty had a few years back. at least he's benefiting from it this time!

so ty's been in new york for a couple of months now and is still trying to find his footing. it's not really the same as small-town providence, but...he thinks he likes it.

connections.

roommates! i put ty in hits different partially so he'd have some built in connections. give me the ragtag group of roommates that become family because they're all sort of hopeless romantics...or hate love, actually.

the ex that caused him to spiral. i have a juicy idea that this may have been a former teammate. ty was traded in the off-season last summer and had been playing with the rangers' ahl affiliate in hartford. could have been a teammate from his previous team in providence, with hartford, or just someone involved with either of those teams (social media manager, reporter, play-by-play person) who has recently gotten a job with the big club, too, and moved to nyc. awkward.

he's got a sort of thing going on with muse b from glitch, but i would love something like a PR relationship or even something that spawns from a sort of...charity auction. think the boytoy auction from one tree hill (aka bid to win a date with a player).

teammates or other people affiliated with the rangers! social media crew, coaching staff, play-by-play! or even just other people who use the practice space. figure skaters, speed skaters, etc.

give me jasmin savoy brown as his sister and i'll kiss you. if you're into that.

[pannyprainer]

*shakes you aggressively but also kindly*

I loved him as a character from the start and I will say yes he is my favourite character still and always will be and yes he should be your favourite.

Kinger is number one!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

kinger is now officially my favorite tadc character. i geneuinely couldn’t decide before this episode but idk i just love where they’re taking his character

[the-s1lly-corner]

I don't know if anyone has asked for this yet, but can we have a Nutcracker (preferably male) reader and/or ballerina (Preferably female) reader being besties and just doing little performances for everyone in the circus. This can either be romantic or platonic Reader(s) x TADC, I don't mind! Go crazy with it! Go wild! I love to read ur headcanons and stuff so much man/pos

Gangle, Kinger, Jax, Caine x reader who hosts shows!

two things! i couldnt decide on the gender of the reader so you can read it as both or either </3 other thing, i still dont take reqs for the entire cast (nothing against you this is a blog wide rule/character limit) so i went ahead and ran the request through a wheel to randomly select characters with that said, i hope you enjoy!

CAINE:

i think, given that hes the circus ringmaster of the circus as well as generally being in control of things thanks to his status of an ai, he tends to host your shows... might even make the other circus members watch. whether you want to read this as platonic or romantic, he just does it because he wants to support you and allow your talent to be seen...! though he might get rather.... loud about it. ive said it so many times but im ready to say it again, he would be your number one fan and hes going to be very clear about it. probably throws roses to the stage for you when youre done with your performance... cheers and claps the loudest... hell, if youre comfortable with it, he might just wear a shirt with your name and face on it..! truly your number 1 fan

JAX:

i think if this is platonic, depending on how close you guys are he might try to disrupt the show by being a jackass. generally being annoying and trying to get a reaction out of you... though i dont think he would do this if you guys are actually. close or good friends and/or dating... now practice? thats something else... definitely a case of him being able to see that you enjoy what you do and you have passion and dedicate himself so he might just try to contain himself and his need to be an asshole and cause havoc.. i think if asked what he thought he would seem a little neutral about it, hes not going to praise you excessively or be mean.. jax doesnt seem like the type to gush over someone or something no matter how much he liked it.. best youd get out of him is a "good job,".. definitely one that hinges off of how close you guys are and how much respect and boundaries are set up between you two

KINGER:

i think he might be a toned down caine, looks like he would give you a rose after your performance.. though if youre not a flower person i think he would swap the rose out for something else. while caine might be barely containing his excitement throughout your performance, kinger is much more likely to be able to sit still and quiet... although still very much consumed by you, perhaps even sitting on the edge of his seat in an attempt to get a better look at you. i think he would notice a lot of smaller details and stuff you put in your shows, such as costumes or decoration, too... maybe its self projection, but i think he bounces between being clueless to having a really really keen eye when it comes to things... also the fact i love the hc of "clueless/chaotic/commonly zoned out character noticing something vital or making a smart point for a moment before reverting back to status quo" is one of my favorite tropes.... loves watching you practice

GANGLE:

i think she might actually help you with costumes and stage decorations! sure her thing is mostly art and you might have to recruit the help of ragatha for some things but i think gangle would be more than willing to help you out... plus it gives her something to do, and it means spending time with you! and thats always nice! very receptive to the stuff you have to say but i think she might try to offer some alternatives to make things visually look more appealing... as for actual performances i think she would love them! she strikes me as a theatre kid, and your sort of thing is adjacent i think... might gush to you about the show and how you did, though its often that she might trail off and become sheepish if she feels she was getting too into her ramble.. generally very sweet, though, but due to her shyness shes not going to do more than the rest of the crowd (throwing flowers, clapping louder than everyone else, ect ect ect)

[addhunter]

your (super) basic guide to arhaus, nevada

May 8, 2017

While reading Heritage, did you find yourself a tad overwhelmed by the amount of characters? There are quite a few of them introduced within the first few chapters, only made worse by the fact that most of them have two names. It’s a lot to keep track of, I get it. So, inspired by a conversation with my mom, (mostly her saying “wait, Kat’s not the blonde one?” and “Ultra can heal, right?”) I’ve decided to make a basic guide to the main characters! These are all the ones (of any importance) that are talked about within the first four chapters of the book. 

Maybe I’ll make a whole page on my blog dedicated to these guys. That’d be fun.

The first character you meet is one of the main characters, but she’s in the future, so don’t worry about what she’s doing just yet. There’s six main characters and six supporting characters that are going to be really important as we go. In order to keep this as spoiler free as possible, I’m gonna keep the descriptions pretty short. If I can find my really bad sketches I did of all these guys, I’ll put their pictures here as well. (You probably don’t want to see those.) ((Also I was thinking about making character cards with stats for their superheroes. That’s be great.))

MAIN CHARACTERS:

Julie Novak [Ultra]

Julie’s the first character we meet in the book, along with an unnamed jerk face. The prologue is set several years in the future, so you don’t have to worry about that for now. At the time of the first chapter (2012), she’s 17. She’s funny, loyal, sarcastic, and always down to hang out. Julie spends more time at Dave and Blaise’s than her own house and is very invested in superheroes. She has a father, who she lives with in an apartment.

As Ultra, her power is very unreliable telekinesis. This ability allows her to fly and to throw things at people from across the room while also cutting out on her during important moments.

Katarina Roux [Neon Wing]

Kat moved to Arhaus halfway through their junior year with her father and brother. She’s on the quiet side, though she’s tall and strong. Julie was her first friend, but she clicked instantly with Lizzie, and they’re now very close. Her mother lives in California and Kat and her brother go to visit every school break.

Neon Wing has the ability to heal minor wounds and can produce glowing wings from her back, prompting her name from the town newspaper. She’s very serious about following proper procedure and will not hesitate to correct others on it.

Elizabeth Miller [The Kicker]

Lizzie and Julie have been friends since they were in third grade, and she has consistently been referred to as one of the hottest girls in town. She’s on the school soccer team and is a co-captain along with her best friend Molly. She’s very goal driven and can sometimes be rash in her decisions, and is always striving for the best possible result. She lives in a large house with her mother, father, and younger sister Celeste. Her blonde hair is always well done and at least three boys have written poems about her eyes.

The Kicker is a very assertive hero and confronts villains as quickly and efficiently as possible. While not always the best of approaches, she gets the job done. Kicker has super strength and flight.

Christopher Sing [Psyonic]

Chris is built lanky and has never been very good at sports, but he played soccer for a long time as a kid and loved it. He’s incredibly intelligent, and will be graduating as salutatorian. He’s always been interested in journalism and mystery stories, and plans on marrying his girlfriend of four years, Molly. Currently, his biggest worry is that his mom is going to find out he moonlights as one of the town’s heroes. He lives in a small home with his mother and father.

Psyonic is a talented telepath and is currently working on a way to help his friends guard their minds against other mind readers. Since getting his powers, he hasn’t needed his glasses, but he feels more comfortable with them on.

Blaise Perez [Rage]

With a foul mouth and an aggressive attitude, Blaise was the only one my mom remembered with any success. His inside voice is a low roar and you won’t find a more passionate person anywhere else. He’s fiercely dedicated to being a superhero and made Chris and Dave’s costumes. Despite how he comes off, he’s a very kind person and would do anything for his friends. His mom works as a foster mom, and they’ve recently moved into their new house with his adopted brother and four foster siblings. His older brother is away at college.

As Rage, his volume is more controlled, but he’s still very hardheaded and determined to make a difference. He and Chris are still trying to figure out his power, but so far, it appears to be increased agility and manipulation of glowing red energy that he can either keep around his fists like an added glove of power or send out as blasts.

David Baker [Speedster]

When Dave’s parents first left for their business trip, it was nothing out of the ordinary, but it’s been a few months now and they still aren’t back. Despite his worry, Dave’s the comic relief in the friend group, and paired with Julie, the two are unbeatable in matches of wit. He’s very happy go lucky and carefree and is the most annoyed by the ‘lame names’ the newspaper has come up with. He spends a lot of time practicing martial arts (that he’s been doing since he was young) and arguing with his older brother.

Speedster is ambivalent about most things and never seems to take anything seriously, which sparks a rivalry between his team and the other in town. He has super speed and currently has a campaign going to get his name changed.

MINOR CHARACTERS:

Not minor, really, but not the main guys. They’re just as important, and super cool, but they aren’t the main ones. You feel? I love them, though. My sister’s favorite character is Dalia.

Zach Stevens

Zach actually becomes a main character in the second book, but he’s not in this one too much. He’s in the process of being adopted by Blaise’s mom, and spent his entire childhood going from foster home to foster home. He firmly believes that your friends are the family you get to pick, and he’s more than happy to find the friends he does in Arhaus.

Dalia Woods

Dalia is short, spunky, and always moving. She’s on the cheerleading team, student council, welcome committee, has an amazing gpa, and is also running some sort of back room supply empire. No one knows how she does it. She and Lizzie are best friends. She’s 5′2″.

Molly Kinger

Molly’s on the quiet side and is one of the kindest human beings you will ever meet. She and Chris have been dating since they were in eighth grade, and has started on varsity soccer since she was a freshman. 

Anthony Archer

Anthony is an absolute genius, able to do wonders with technology. He and Dave met at bible camp in elementary school and have been best friends ever since. He’s been taking college classes since he was 15 and is the valedictorian of their graduating class. He’s also super bitter about not having powers.

Quinton Baker

As Dave’s older brother, the two really have nothing in common other than their lanky limbs and dry humor. Quinton never speaks unless he feels like it’s important, but he looks out for his younger brother and feels an intense responsibility for him and his friends. He’s terrible at cooking.

Ben Guinness

Ben writes for the crime section of the Arhaus Herald (slowly becoming the superhero section) and has been dating Quinton since they were in high school. He’s a sweet dude but on the dumber side, and is enthusiastic and supportive of everything. Like a puppy, if puppies could write for newspapers.

AREAS OF IMPORTANCE:

The kids usually hang out at Dave or Blaise’s house, but the girls have been known to gather at Kat’s as well. When not at school or on the job, they’re all usually with each other.

Blue’s is a bar in the older part of town. It’s owned by a man named Blue and is where Quinton works. A good place for finding information, since 80% of the regulars are gossping townspeople.

Buckner Warehouses are a giant complex of warehouse suites on the edge of town closest to the desert. They’re empty, save for a few that are being rented by Lizzie’s father’s company, and strange things have been happening there lately.

Ricky’s Gym is a boxing gym with only a few kinds of workout equipment. A lot of people tend to use the fancier gyms in the nicer part of town, but Ricky’s is where the kids spend a lot of time as well. Julie’s here on a lot of nights practicing her powers, and treats Ricky like an uncle. There’s three rings, a lot of punching bags, some dummies, and mats. 

OTHER IMPORTANT THINGS TO REMEMBER:

Superheroes are very much a thing in this universe, although because of the public opinion, nearly all of them don masks to hide their identities. There used to be a lot more of them, but for the past twenty-ish years, the numbers dwindled drastically. In areas with higher populations, the number is much more prevalent. Julie keeps lists of big heroes for inspiration.

The Hauswatch Group is a group of three male heroes (Psyonic, Rage, and Speedster) that popped up around September of 2012. Due to handling crimes closer to the main parts of town, they appear in the newspaper quite often and have almost a fanclub. There’s three girl heroes (Ultra, Neon Wing, and the Kicker) who tend to work together, but they aren’t seen as often and pictures of them are pretty rare. The Crimson Ninja is a hero that’s been appearing on and off since the 80′s and is rarely seen.

Molly has the best hair.

These kids have a long way to go before they can even begin to think they know everything they’re dealing with.

So there you have it! Your basic guide to Arhaus, Nevada! As always, anyone is more than welcome to ask questions, and I’m happy to clarify anything. The response to the book has been good so far and I’m really excited! I’m about a third of the way done writing the second book and working hard to make it even better than the first. :)

Thanks to anyone who’s read it! Here’s a dumb pic as thanks:

[you can get the book here]

[other posts that have info about the characters]

[go look at the twitter if you wanna find some real bad early sketches]

[arandomnerd810]

some inaccuracies with the digital circus film theory because special intrest

first off no Gangle Zooble and Kinger won’t be side characters for comedic effect, every character will get an episode to themselves how you gonna reference Tumblr posts and not know that

second as his number one fan, Caine’s actions can 100% be described as torment cause let’s review he was the last straw of Kaufmo’s abstraction, refuses to listen to other’s criticism’s, killed gummigoo while strongly implying he’s done things like this before and that’s just in 2 episodes where in the second he has less than 2 minutes of screen time he sucks even though he does have good intentions and is trying

Jax is the worst morally (which is including caine) but im going to defend him for the first time you can not say “he didn’t even bother to go to the funeral” bro??? i thought it was pretty obvious he was upset at what happened, but didn’t want to be vulnerable

the backlash they will get for saying this will be insaneee

i’m pretty sure the jax's plushie being in the first group was because he is gooseworx's fav and later on he has a good amount of merch cause he’s the most popular character. again, every character is going to be important. i feel like his pin background being like that is just because of him being a fourth wall brekay character and chaotic, but i could also see it as evidence so i wont harp on that much. even though it could be argued Caine is a fourth wall breaky character yet his pin is normal it’s probably just because he’s much more neat and organized than him

i love the theory channels big fan and they got me introduced to glitch but still the theories are not always very accurate makes sense since they’re on a tight schedule but still felt like pointing this out and i do appreciate being pointed out the fact that Caine may also be a fourth wall breaky character due to the intro