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Chapter Text

The king sat and watched as his advisor, Olivia, rushed the small human away. He chuckled to himself, his heart warmed with the thoughts of the interaction. It was the first time in years he had felt a connection form. However, this relief and fondness soon faded as his body was hurled back. The world turned dim as he found himself surrounded by never-ending darkness. He knew what this meant, he knew what the Core wanted. Its orange eyes snapped open in front of where he stood, and he tried not to flinch in front of the creature.

“Kill the girl! She is a threat to everything we hope to accomplish. If the prophecy comes true, it will ruin everything we have built. If this happens, you will never join us, living as a disgrace to our family name.” The creature spat, its mind invading the kings. Its cold tendrils slowly caressed his thoughts. For he couldn’t hide anything, the Core knew everything. 

“Kill her! Now? But we still don’t know where the box is.” Andrias tried to plead. He already grew fond of the girl, her spirit reminding him of his own. He didn’t want her death on his hands, he already gave so much to listen to the dark creature.

“DO YOU NOT UNDERSTAND! KEEPING HER ALIVE MAKES THE PROPHECY MORE DANGEROUS!” The creature's eyes widened as it hissed while yelling at the foolish king. His incompetence shone through again, revealing his weakness to the Core. The creature launched itself slightly upwards, trying to appear more menacing. 

“It’s true, the old prophecy makes keeping her alive risky.” Andrias shifted his hands slightly, assuming a careless posture, which the Core did not appreciate. There were many shouts of annoyance, some loud and others whispered. “But she’s just a child, perhaps all of this is overblown.”

The Core did not like this, springing forward to come closer to the king's face, its voice echoing with anger and some disappointment. Maybe it could use this to its advantage, to solve the internal debate of keeping Andrias or discarding the useless newt. “If we are not to extinguish the girl, then what? ” The faces behind the luminous orange eyes smiled as the test was set. “ What do you propose Andrias?”

The king was surprised that the Core asked for his opinion, but he eagerly took the opportunity. “What do I propose.” Andrias started walking away, turning from the piercing eyes, humming to himself. He didn’t want Marcy dead, but he couldn't refuse the Core. He racked his brain for possible solutions for this dilemma, allowing silence to fill the air. “In studying the ancient writings it appears there is a ritual that allows these chosen heroes to give up their ability and the responsibility that comes with them. Why not befriend this Marcy and lure her friends here where we will siphon their powers away? Neutralize the prophecy.”Andrias was delighted with himself. This was a solid plan, and the Core presumably will accept it. Which means he won’t have to annihilate the girl. Annihilate his dignity.  

The Core, however, was unimpressed. There were too many loopholes that could be exploited. The minds were frustrated with Andrias's approach to addressing the impending threat of the prophecy. They believed that their way would be more efficient and foolproof. Despite already setting the test, they were willing to make some adjustments to the plan. Nonetheless, this was a test for Aldrich's son. Therefore, they tasked Aldrich with the job of talking to his son.

The creature shifted in the mindscape, morphing into the father that Andrias yearned to please. The doppelganger grinned, placing their right hand on Andrias’s shoulder and speaking with a single, unmistakable voice instead of numerous overlaying voices.“And restore our legacy all in one fell swoop .” Andrias looked back his face conflicted, he felt uneasiness. His mind trying to cloak his true preferences. “ Well done Andrias. The plan was amazing….”

“Was?” Andiras couldn’t stop the plummet he felt deep in his chest. What did he do wrong? Did the Core see his defilement? 

“We just have a concern.”Aldrich's voice turned cold, his eyes becoming hard. One could almost see disappointment in the hollow gaze of the doppelganger. 

Andrias tensed at the comment. He knew convincing the Core was a long shot, and their rejection was no surprise. “What is it, my lord?” He refused to call his father by name. Knowing the others were listening in. Some might even say maybe some of it was anger. Anger of a child, who became an adult too fast. Anger towards a parent, who saw no wrong in their actions. Whatever the reason may be, Andrais refused to call him by name.

“Your plan will restore the power we need. But. ” The giant newt paused his hand lifting from Andrias as he stepped back. Rubbing his chin as if in deep thought. “ This could go bad. We need a failsafe.”

The plan had already been formulated in the Core's mind. It enjoyed teasing the King, making him feel like his input actually mattered so that he would not question the Core's intentions.

Andrias on the other hand turned to face his father. Even after years after his father's death, he still could not shake his presence. The forever scrutinizing eyes eternally staring him down. “What kind of failsafe.” He asked, scared of what the response could be. What it could bring for the small human.

“We have been entrapped in this metal body for so long. Unable to feel the world around us. We can only see so much through your crown and our spies. ” Andrias’s heart stopped. He understood what the Core was implying. Or at least, his mind created the fabrication of what it could be suggesting. Even so, he hoped he was wrong. “ Maybe Marcy could be more… useful to us.”

“What if her friends catch on? Surely they will notice the difference if you inhabited the body?” Andrias tried not to sound desperate, but his heart was racing. This wasn’t physical death, but it was just as bad. The Core’s influence would forever taint her soul. 

“Then we will stay hidden in the dark of her mind. Hiding from plain view but very much conscious. ” The newt smiled, the multiple eyes scrunching up at the movement. “ If the plan fails, then we will take control. Removing the other stones… our way.”

Andrias felt ill, he was trying to fight on the child’s behalf and it turned into something far worse. She would become a puppet, if not to kill her friends. Then to be the Core’s host after the plan is completed. “But she isn’t worthy to enter the Core!” He tried his voice raising, even pleading.

“She is Wit. When she is fully simulated into the Core her infusion may be of value to us. ” There was no way for the king to try and persuade the creature otherwise. He nodded limply, his eyes evading the orange glare. “ Perfect. Have her ready. We start the process immediately, then wait to see if your plan succeeds.”

Black cords of metal came out of the surrounding darkness encircling Aldrich. Then pulled him back, back into the shadows enveloping the dead king.

Andrias finally let out the breath he didn't know he was holding in. Cold sweat beaded down his neck, making him uncomfortable. He sighed to himself, questioning where his morals lay. This was dangerous; he could not fight the Core. If he did, there would be dire consequences, and he might not live another breath.

Maybe things will be better in the future. Maybe then he wouldn't have the overwhelming guilt gnawing at his heart. Maybe then he wouldn't be so lonely.

Chapter Text

The day was clear and the morning bright. I should have been excited, we were almost to Newtopia, and after weeks of travel, we were finally almost there.

But something pulled at my insides. Threatening to pull my heart out. After the incident with Sasha, I couldn’t help but wonder where Marcy was. The girl was insanely clumsy, which wasn’t good when thinking about how this world is full of giant creatures who wouldn’t hesitate to get their claws on their next meal.

My hand reached down, grabbing onto the photo. It was heavy, heavy with solemn thoughts that crept into my head.  The last remnants of Marcy that I had.

I was sitting at the wooden table in the fwagon with Sprig who was talking about something. I tuned him out, continuing to look at the picture in my hands. My knees curled in as more worrisome thoughts filled my mind.

What if Marcy got hurt?

What if she’s like Sasha? What if she tries to kill me?

What if Marcy died? How would I deal with that?

I shook my head trying to rid the invading thoughts from my brain, my face pulling into a frown.

“Uh… Anne?” At the mention of my name, my head shot up locking eyes with an anxious Sprig.

“Huh?” Was all I could say as my mind was pulled out of the dark spiraling pit of my mind.

“Uh… I thought you’d be more.” His arms reached out for emphasis. “Excited.” He finished his voice laced with worry.

“I am excited. It’s just…” My hands lashed out, hovering over the table. My face scrunched as my emotions leaked through. Sure I’ve thought about Marcy, but never voiced my concerns. Everything has just been distracting me… “We’ve been traveling Amphibia for weeks! I thought there’d be some sign of Marcy by now.” My hands pulled back and I brought the photo to my face my head resting on my right hand as my mood dropped. “But nothing.” It was worrisome, it did take a while for me to reunite with Sasha… but it's been too long for Marcy.

“Maybe that’s a good thing!” I heard shuffling but I didn’t care to look up. I know Sprig didn’t enjoy the encounter with Sasha, none of us did. “Your last friend was kinda-“ A small pink slimy finger invaded my vision pointing towards the photo while inching forward. “Totally evil.” The finger finally stopped hovering over Sasha.

Something squeezed inside me, I don’t know whether it was guilt or anger. I slapped Sprig’s hand away looking up at him. “Hey, look. Sasha and I might be going through a rough patch but that doesn’t mean I don’t care about her.” I paused slightly, did I care about Sasha? I still feel angry. Angry at what she did, and that maybe… she felt no remorse for it. It made my insides clench, to think that our friendship was nothing more than Sasha using me and molding me into what SHE wanted. My head shook a tad to help rid myself of such thoughts, this wasn’t the time or the place. “And since she got zapped here with me then that means Marcy did too.” My eyes slammed shut, the pain of missing her slightly overbearing.

“Besides Marcy is completely different from Sasha.” My hands lifted up and then extended to get my point across. “She’s harmless.” My hand flicked down in an almost careless fashion. My mind lingered back to all those fun times with Marcy. The adorable nerd was always oblivious to outside things. Even to some feelings…

I shook the thought from my mind, already a slight blush was creeping up my face and I knew Sprig was going to ask about it. If he noticed. I decided to continue, hoping for a distraction. “She’s super smart but super oblivious. And insanely clumsy.” I couldn’t help the small smile escaping, thinking about all the times Marcy accidentally hurt herself. Leaving me to help her, whether that was bandages or hugs… maybe even some kisses. ON THE WOUNDS, of course. Why was I being nervous? This is all in my head. “Like maybe the clumsiest person alive.” I looked up my eyes lingering on the roof as the feeling of loneliness crept into my veins again after my small explanation.

“Wow.” My eyes snapped back to Sprig who now had a glass of water. Where did that come from? “That must be horrible.” Of course, ironically his hands slipped and the glass fell. Its contents spilled across the table. I stifled a chuckle looking down at the photo.

The laughter was extinguished as my mind began to worry again. “Back home we were there to protect her,” I was there to protect her. My mind was unhelpfully supplied. “But here, she’s alone instead of kickballs…” I stopped, not wanting to go back into that dark pit. Sprig had hopped down grabbed a towel then went back to clean his mess. Dabbing at the water instead of cleaning it.

“She could get mauled by an elephant scarab. Or crushed to death by a heron.” My heart fell even more with every word that left Sprig’s mouth. “Or worse, flayed alive by a-“ I had enough and reached over grabbing onto his mouth to shut him up.

“Not helping.” My eyes narrowed. A sudden lurch brought attention to the fwagon, as it came to a stop and soon the hatch opened revealing a very excited Polly.

“Guys! Come... It's... I... Not gonna believe it... Ah! Just get out here!” Her small arms waved out in excitement and Sprig leaped out of the bench, hopping excitedly. We both climbed the fwagon our heads coming up into the light.

It took a second for my eyes to adjust to the bright environment but when they finally did I couldn’t hold back my gasp. I heaved myself up, then ran over to the edge of the wagon. After jumping down, I landed with a small thud before standing up and running forward. There stood a massive city, its splendor was nothing like I’d seen before. The city seemed to glimmer in the sunlight almost making it look like gold. Footsteps could be heard behind me but I refused to take my eyes off the beautiful city.

“There she is, gang... Newtopia. If there's a way to get you home, it's in that city.” Hop-pop’s scratchy voice reassured. 

My body filled with excitement, “Well, then let's get down there!” We all jumped letting out cries of excitement. Then returned to the fwagon to lead Bessie down the dirt path. There was no way I was going back into the fwagon, my excitement wouldn’t allow it.

When we reached the foot-deep water I hesitated. I’ve been through worse, so I stepped into the water. Sprig was already racing ahead and Polly just started to float forward.

“Well, my feet are soaked.” I joked trying to hide my discomfort with wet socks.

Polly continued to float in tell she ran into a hole. I wonder what made those. I could hear Polly say something but couldn’t quite make it out. Hop-pop ushered her away from the hole and we continued on. Coming up on the huge gates filled with captivating carvings.

My fist clenched as the realization dawned on me. “We’re finally here.” My hands lifted up as I started to yell, “Yo! Anybody home?”

One of the shell carvings opened as a… salamander? Poked his head out. His nasal voice replied, “You can't come in here. Newtopia's closed.”

Wait… WHAT?

“Seriously?!” We all yelled out my hand reached out in irritation. We had come all this way, only to be refused entry? 

“Closed? Like closed, closed? Or like closed for lunch?” I questioned and instantly regretted questioning that. Why would a city close for lunch? That’s silly.

“The city is closed, closed to all outsiders.” The salamander supplied a look of irritation crossed his features.

“What the hey hey? Why? Till when?” Sprig shouted from behind me his voice filled with annoyance.

“Until the barbari-ants are gone, of course. Good luck out there.” The salamander reached out trying to grab onto the handle. His grunts resonated due to all of us just watching him. “Stupid handle.” When he finally reached the handle his entire body staggered forward falling out the window. “Whoa!”

The salamander continued to struggle and Polly laughed, the rest of us just continued to watch him. In tell, he finally made it back in closing the door with a parting. “I’m okay.”

I looked down at Hop-pop to ask whatever he was talking about. “What's a barbari-ant?”

He brought his hands up shrugging, “Beats me, we don’t got ‘em in the valley.”

“Pffft- They close the whole city because of a few little ants?” Sprig giggled, then there was a pause. “Ah!” The scream shocked all of us, we then whipped around to where the pink frog was standing only to be faced with a large insect. Its beady eyes stared at me and its coral-like horns glowed a soft orange. Suddenly it charged. “Big ant! Really big ant!”

The ant slammed into Sprig and he held its mandibles to keep it away from him. Everyone wasted no time running forward with battle cries. We paused and Hop-pop got ready to launch me. It was like those times I saw Sasha in cheerleading. I launched upwards and curled my elbow preparing an attack I saw on TV.

Of course, I simply bounced off the ant, falling into the water. Now all my clothes were wet too… great. Scratch that, I was entirely wet. I heard Polly’s battle cry and ran over to where Sprig and Hop-pop were preparing to launch the old frog.

“One… Two… Three!” We all said in unison. Hop-pop went flying and he puffed his chest up filling it with air. Bullseyes, Hop-pop hit the ant right in the face and it launched backward slamming into the water. Then quickly got up with pained whimpers retreating back into the hole.

I ran forward, yelling with enthusiasm. “Yay-uh! In your face, ant!” I wagged my head afterward trying to get the water out to no avail. Suddenly the ground started to rumble and all of my excitement left.

“Uh, do you guys feel that?” Sprig asked, which was silly considering we all could.

Holes started to appear everywhere as more ants came out, surrounding the wagon. We all clumped together and I started to worry.

How are we going to get out of this one?

“Starting to feel a bit antsy.” Cracking a joke right now probably wasn’t the best thing to do. But I needed a way to cope with the stressful situation. Suddenly something fell into the water, a black substance stained the water. “What the...” More things fell, falling in between us and the ants. And I started to feel relieved.

Maybe the salamander saw we were in trouble and got help!

Just as fast as the black sludge bags appeared an arrow that was on fire at the tip followed suit falling into the black substance. Everything grew quiet as the ants inched toward the substance. The black goo exploded into flames, which in turn scared off the ants.

What in the world?

We all were gawking and making amazed sounds as our eyes shifted to the figure standing on the wall. They were clocked and mysterious. They lifted their arm and an arrow shot out with a rope attached.

“Hop Pop, can I get a crossbow for my birthday? Please, please, please!” Polly squeaked, clearly amazed by the mysterious person. The arrow embedded itself into a wheel and Hop-pop seemed to jump.

“Eh- we’ll talk.” Hop-pop supplied, clearly not happy with the wish.

My eyes returned to the strange figure. They leaped onto the rope with a hook and started to slide down. We all gasped as the figure struck a cool pose.

“That's one cool newt.” My brain froze at that. They weren’t salamanders?! Newtopia… oh- that makes a lot more sense.

As the figure neared the wagon they flipped on the rope throwing themself into the air. After one final flip, they landed in front of us. Sprig and Polly gasped again.

“Don’t worry citizens you are now safe!”

I knew that voice.

That nerdy high-pitched voice.

My hand pushed against Hop-pop’s and Sprigs slimy faces as I stepped forward. My brain rushed as I realized that was no salaman- newt.

“Marcy?” The figure lifted their hood revealing… “MARCY!” I yelled running forward,  jumping in for a hug.

She let out a small oof as I hit her causing her to fall back into the water. “Anne?! Is that really you!” Marcy pushed me back grabbing onto my shoulders and looking into my face.

“Marcy I can’t believe it!” My body screamed for oxygen as I realized we were very close. Marcy on the other hand didn’t seem to notice. 

“You! Us! Here!?” She grabbed her cheeks and it was adorable.

“I know, I know. I missed you so much” I leaned in for another hug to hide the burning blush on my face.

Marcy laughed and how beautiful it was. “Oh! W- I missed you too!” She hugged back and I was sure I was going to melt away. I finally released her, standing up and admiring her new outfit. A small black chest plate covered her shirt. A long clock dawned on her shoulders with fur covering the top. She had small leather boots with tufts of fur on the end, which led up to an orange skirt.  I reached my hands out in order to help her up and she gladly took them. Leaping up with my aid.

“Look at you. Look at this outfit. You're like an Amazon warrior queen or something.” I tried to not sound amazed but I couldn’t help it. Her outfit was amazing! Not too much like a soldier, unlike Sasha. And not at all like my outfit. It was totally Marcy.

“I know, I know, right?” She pulled her clock over so I could get a better look but I only focused on her eyes. The beautiful soft brown eyes I’ve missed. “It's nuts! This is real!” Marcy brought her hand forward showing the crossbow attached to her wrist that was pointed at my face. Which made me feel very uncomfortable.

“Yeah, very real.” I pushed her hand away and she shyly realized why.

“Heh- Ah, sorry!” Her hands clenched and she brought them up to her face excitement filling her features. “Isn't this place wild? What an adventure. Aw, man!” Marcy started to walk away, looking at the water. “I've really grown out here, Anne. Come into my own. Leveled up.” Her face turned to the sky. “No more clumsy, klutzy Marcy. Can you believe it?” She turned back to me and my face heated up again.

“So Anne, who’s your friend here?” Hop-pop budded in.

“Guys meet Marcy!” I brought my hands out showing off Marcy who snapped her head to look at the planters. For a second I thought I saw annoyance but it was gone the second it was there. Maybe I’m just seeing things.

“Oh, my gosh. Who are these cuties?” Marcy’s mouth opened as a huge gasp escaped. Then she looked back at me, her face full of excitement and admiration. I guess I was just seeing things. “Are they your surrogate frog family?” Her hand reached out and her finger made swirling motions in the air. “Did they find you and take you in?” Her fist clenched and she returned to looking at the Plantars. “Oh! I love the found family trope! Gosh, this is just like the hero in my favorite game, Vagabondia Chronicles. The greatest JRPG of all time. Have you played it? Do you wanna play it, do you wanna borrow it? Just say the word and I’ll lend you my copy. Man, it'll change your lives!” Marcy was now screaming up at the sky holding onto the Plantars's shoulders.

Her energy radiated off of her and it felt so familiar. Her constant blabbering and nerdy talks. The Plantars on the other hand were not used to this and looked at Marcy like she was crazy.

“Uh. Anne?” Sprig looked at me with wide eyes not prepared for Marcy’s energy.

“Yep, the Plantars took me in. The one you got there is Hop Pop.” I pointed at the old frog and Marcy quickly got interested. Grabbing out a measuring tape thingy.

“Uh-huh, uh-huh, uh-huh. As I thought, 62 centimeters!”

“Yep! All brain.” Hop-pop replied but something else caught my eye. Sprig was standing a ways away, having moved after Marcy focused her attention on Hop-pop.

“Judging from the size of your cranium and flecks of sediment-“ I tuned the conversation out as I studied Sprig. His eyes were narrowed and he had his arms folded. I winced, I knew this was because of Sasha. But I’m sure Sprig will come around.

“Oh, Anne.” At the mention of my name, I snapped back into reality trying to guess what Marcy said. “I'm so jealous you found a farming community. I’ve been studying Amphibia history, and farm culture is super under-appreciated in my opinion. They’re the backbone of society and do not get enough credit for it.”

Hop-pop would like what she said. And as predicted he leaned back utter shock on his face. “ Hub, bub, bub, bub. Hub, bub, bub, bub...” He fell a little too far back and landed on Polly who wasn’t happy. “Thank you! Thank you!” Hop-pop grabbed Marcy’s hand shaking it.

My brain started to wander again. It wasn’t that I didn’t like listening to Marcy talk, but sometimes she talks too much. My eyes slowly returned to Sprig who was still looking at Marcy with suspicion. And I started to worry.

What if Marcy-

That isn’t possible. Marcy is completely harmless and caring. There’s no way she’ll betray me as Sasha did.

Right?

My mind lingered back to what happened at toad tower. But was quickly shoved out of my thoughts as I became aware of Marcy again after she walked over to Sprig. Lifting her hand into the air after shaking his hand. “I will iodine that later.”

“So what about you, Mar-mar? Have you been in Newtopia this whole time?” I asked trying to distract myself from the painful memories.

“Here and there, but, uh, mostly here. I actually warped in right inside the city walls. Pretty lucky, right? Like, what are the odds...” Marcy’s back arched, “Oh, oh, okay! Oh, my gosh! Remember that game I tried to get you and Sasha to play, Creatures and Caverns?”

Creatures and what now?

“No,” I replied in a monotone voice. Marcy’s face fell at that and I felt bad. But the emotion was quickly masked as she put on a smile again.

“It turns out newts are just like Cephalons.” Cephaloonions? My eyes slowly drifted to the side as yet again I had no idea what she was even talking about. My face was blank. “From Shadows of Xel'noth!” Marcy raised her hands in enthusiasm. Then her eyes flicked to me, they were almost calculating. “Anyway, I just role-played like your typical artificer/rogue, and the next thing I know... Boom... I'm the chief ranger of the Newtopian Knight Guard!” Marcy beamed and I just stood there with a straight face. Questioning everything that was just said to me.

Marcy seemed to notice my lack of response and something flickered in her eyes.

“Where those words?” Polly asked, and I had to admit I didn’t know what she was talking about either.

“So,” I started, hoping to diverge the conversation. “Marcy, can you get us into the city? We tried the gate, but they won't let us in.”

Marcy’s face fell and she leaned on me. “Unfortunately, those gates will stay closed until the barbari-ants are defeated. Luckily, I've got a plan. Come on!”

I watched as Marcy walked forward releasing her arrow and then flying forward.

“Hop-pop birthday make it happen.”

Then I realized Marcy was way ahead of us, and I started to run after her. “Marcy! Wait!”

Marcy landed on the ground stopping just enough for me to catch up. Then she started to race off again, and I had to sprint to keep up.

We soon rounded the wall and there stood a tent on one of the few areas of ground in the shallow water. Shouting could be heard inside as Marcy poked her head in. Then she walked in, and we soon followed.

“Ah, Master Marcy!” The newt who spoke then turned to the rest of us. “Uh- are you lost?”

“No, no. They're with me. The Plantars traveled here all the way from the valley.” I looked at Marcy as she smiled and I felt all giddy inside.

“Ah welcome dirty peasants.” I didn’t quip back with a remark, too focused on Marcy’s face.

“And this is my friend, Anne...” My hand reached out poking Marcy’s cheek. She flinched at the contact, “Ow.”

I laughed, her expression adorable as she looked at me with curiosity. “Sorry. Just... still can't believe you're here.” Her face beamed at this and I patted her head which she laughed at.

“Anne quit it.” Her elbow hit my arm and I brought my arms back. Worried that I had taken a step too far, but her face was still beaming.

“All right, all right. Keep doing what you're doing.” I wanted to wink but decided against it. And soon the purple newt spoke up.

“You'll be glad to hear we've agreed on a battle strategy.”

The other newts didn’t seem to like this. Both yelled out, “WHAT!” As the Pink one stretched out his arms. “We've agreed on nothing!”

Marcy's attention was brought back to the map on the table, but I couldn’t help fondly watch Marcy. She looked so cute when she was serious.

“Well, no worries. I think I got it figured out.” Marcy’s attention was back on me and I pulled my face into a frown to not be suspicious. “Anne, do you remember when we studied insect migration patterns in biology class?”

Marcy remembered that?

“Nope.” I calmly replied.

“Well, since the weather warmed up, those ants have been sending scouting parties deeper into our territory. In fact, We predict a full-scale invasion is just around the corner.” I started to play with Marcy’s hood, tuning out what she was saying again.

“-King of Amphibia?” Sprig’s voice caught my interest as my mind snapped back to what was happening.

Amphibia has a king?!

“Uh-huh.” Marcy replied nonchalantly. 

What’s going on?

“Sprig behave yourself.” Hop-pop scolded and I wondered even more about what I missed. 

I decided it would be awkward if I just stood there. “I didn't even know you guys had a king.”

Hop-pop seemed to take offense to this. “Well, duh. We're not anarchists, Anne.”

“SPEAK FOR YOURSELF!” Polly yelled.

“Okay. The plan is we're gonna sneak behind enemy lines and drive the ant queen away.” Marcy pulled out a book that held a drawing of a grotesque-looking creature. “With her gone, the rest should retreat.”

“Oh, yeah? And how are we doing that?” Sprig crossed his arms, sarcasm lacing his words.

“Check it out!” Marcy pulled out a leather strip, that had mushrooms strapped onto it. They looked like boomshromes but the wrong color.

Polly gasped, “Boomshrooms?!” Clearly, she had the same thought that I did.

“Not quite.” Marcy clipped the shrooms to a golden clasp, which was impressive. “These are stink shrooms!”

Polly’s voice was filled with disappointment, “Oh… carry on.”

“They're designed to release pheromones that should drive the queen away instantly. But we will have to fight our way through a bloodthirsty hoard of ants.” Marcy closed her hands leaning them on the map table. Her eyes focused on the map.

I started to worry. This sounded dangerous.

“My interest has been restored!” Polly excitedly said.

“We'll have to be extra careful. If one thing goes wrong... “ Marcy faltered and the table tipped knocking some pieces off. “Woah,” She let out a dry laugh. “Flimsy table.”

My heart sank as I continued to think this was a bad idea. I know Marcy has grown, and all of that. But I still worry for her safety. She could still be clumsy, and what if something happens? I would never forgive myself. 

“Uhhhh…” I grabbed the back of my neck, nerves spilling into my chest. I shouldn’t be nervous, I’m just trying to be a good friend. A friend who is concerned for her safety. “Marbles, this sounds pretty dangerous. Yeah, why don't you leave the mission to me and the Plantars? We did stuff like this all the time in the valley.” My arm released and I waved it carelessly, this of course reflected nothing on how I felt. All the memories of huge creatures trying to eat us came bubbling up and resisted the urge to flinch. 

Me and the Plantar’s struck a pose while Hop-pop said a line you would here in video games. “To the max!” 

Marcy did not seem to like this, her face pulled in a tight smile. “Come on, Annabanana. I’ll be fine.” She brought her hands out raising them in a manner that looked like a shrug but not completely. 

“Banana?” Sprig whispered, clearly confused. I’ll have to explain to him later. 

“We’ve changed, remember?” There was a glint in her eyes I couldn’t place but it made me uncomfortable. Marcy was right we have both changed… but that still doesn’t change the fact that Marcy was clumsy. She could effortlessly get hurt. 

“Marcy I’m just worried, what if something happens? I mean you're not exactly the safest person.” I winced at all the memories of Marcy hurting herself. 

“ Anne, trust me. I can handle this. Now let's get going. Mission, engage!” Marcy raced out of the tent and I ran after her. Of course, she already had her nose buried inside a book. As light assaulted my eyes for the second time that day.

As my vision cleared I was amazed at the sight before me. Small coral-colored butterflies circled the clearing as Marcy stopped, her concentration now on the beautiful insects. The way the insects fluttered around Marcy made her almost look majestic. Her silky black hair waved in the soft wind and she let out some laughter, pulling her hand up for a butterfly to land on. 

I couldn’t help but gape at the scene, my heart thrumming in my ears as Marcy looked over at me. A butterfly sat contempt on her finger and she motioned for me to join with her other hand. I slowly walked over my mind running a million miles per second. 

Marcy slowly gave me the butterfly, it crawled onto my fingers flapping its wings just a bit. I was amazed and reached to touch the wings, but Marcy stopped my hand. 

“Don’t touch the wings.” She spoke in a soft tone, leaning in to hold my hand as the butterfly continued to stay. I was perplexed, why couldn’t I touch the wings? 

My face must have shown my confusion as Marcy continued. “Butterfly wings are fragile. Touching them can cause the scales that protect the feeble membrane underneath, to fall off. Also, the scales on a butterfly’s wings are colorful which helps with warding off predators.” Marcy got that face, the face she always got when she talked about random facts she cared about. “The butterfly is so beautiful but they are such weak creatures.” 

I just nodded, words couldn’t leave my mouth even if I tried. All I could do was focus on those beautiful soft brown eyes. You would have to look really hard but if you did you could see small flecks of gold. hidden. This made her look even more beautiful and I could feel my cheeks heat up. 

Marcy moved away, looking at something behind me. I turned, which caused the butterfly to fly away which made me frown slightly. Sprig came marching out of the tent his arms raised with a face of exaggeration and frustration. Polly hopped behind him, joining the small group. 

“Where’s HP?” I asked, Sprig just huffed and crossed his arms. Watching a now distracted Marcy, who had her face back into a book. 

I turned to Polly, but before I could ask Hop-pop came marching out. His chest puffed and his pants pulled tightly upward. “Dang fancy newts. Should respect us, hard workers, more. We are the backbone of-” He muttered passing me without so much as a glance. I sighed, this was going to be more than what I bargained for. 

_

Marcy had already started walking towards the towering dirt mound in the distance and Hop-pop followed. I turned back to Polly who just shrugged and started to hop forward. I soon followed racing to catch up with a distracted Marcy. 

We walked for some time in the shallow water before the ant mound grew bigger. And when I say bigger I mean bigger! It towered over us and I felt small compared to it. My eyes slowly went up examining the ant hill. 

“Okay, we should be arriving there shortly-” A yelp escaped Marcy and my eyes snapped back to her figure, which was now falling into a massive hole. I lept forward trying to grab onto Marcy but came short. 

“MARCY!” Without a second thought, I jumped down into the hole my butt scrapping against the dirt. Then finally I got my feet down allowing myself to stand as we finally reached the bottom of the hole. Marcy of course was still on her back but quickly stood book still in hand. 

“Alright let’s go!” Marcy began to take a step forward, so I ran forward grabbing onto her shoulders. 

“Hold up, stay behind me.” I tried giving Marcy a concerned look but she looked uninterested, returning her gaze to look at the book in her hands. 

“Behind, eh? Just where a maybe-backstabber would wanna be.” Sprig commented from behind me and I raised an eyebrow. I mean I understand why he feels this way, but come on. Marcy is sweet, kind, hardworking, and smart. 

My face heated up as my thoughts wandered to look at Marcy who was now racing in front of me. Wait- 

“This is gonna be a cinch, guys. Trust me, I know these tunnels better than anyone-” And down she fell, this time I was ready. I grabbed onto her cape bringing her up, she was surprisingly light. Which gave me some concern but that was washed away as I noticed Marcy staring at me. “Thanks.” She help a thumbs up and then started to get up. “Okay. Note to self: Do not step in holes.”

She started to walk forward, and after what just happened there was no way I was going to let her continue in front of me. I grabbed onto her arm in order to get her attention about my concern but I stopped. 

My eyes were glued on her arm as I noticed a thin line running down her upper arm to her elbow then wrapping around to the front of her wrist disappearing under the gray glove. It was lighter than her skin tone. Was it a scar? What would give her a scar like that? My eyes remained on her arm as she stopped walking. But a scream from behind me pried my eyes away, as all of us turned to see a giant ant drag Sprig away. 

“SPRIG!” We all yelled as the small pink frog was dragged away, green goop dripping down his face pinchers squeezing for a better grip. 

“Why me?” His face scrunched in pain and the creature continued to drag him. “Why always me-“

My heart sank as I saw Sprig be dragged away his voice fading into the dirt. My hand squeezed Marcy’s hand as the rest of the family got into battle formation. Marcy jerked my hand back as I was still gripping it. This brought my attention away from the fading figure of the small pink frog.

“Get ready!” Marcy yelled her eyes now cold and focused. Analyzing the ants around us. Hop-pop and Polly yelled out their compliance as Marcy’s eyes searched the walls along the small cave.

“Yeah, on it!” The small nasally voice brought hope to my chest as I looked down finding the small pink frog covered in goop, but that didn’t matter, he was okay.

“Oh Sprig, good. You survived.” The sentence made me wince as realization dawned on me that, that could have been the last time I saw Sprig, and I just stood there. Watching it happen. 

“Yeah! I kicked him!” Sprig did a small high kick for emphasis but he remained ready to fight.

“Alright frogs. Distract the barbari-ants while I get us an escape route.” Marcy yelled, ducking under a claw aimed at her head.

“Wait Marcy! Stay close-“ An ant lunged at me and I had to back away pulling my racket out to stop it from attacking me. When my attention returned to Marcy, I watched in amazement as Marcy fluidly made her way through the ants. She stopped in front of a bush with strange luminous plants. Then pulled out two vials.

Screams echoed behind me and I whipped around watching Hop-pop and Polly hang from the ceiling holding onto a ants' horns while they crawled on the ceiling.

“Hold on guys!” I tried to run forward but an ant with cyan horns jumped into my path. More ants were filling up the small cave and anxiety seeped into my bones.

“Done!” A small cry sounded behind me and was followed by a large boom. “Everyone this way!”

I turned to see a now gaping hole in the wall. Its edges singed black and smoke faded away. Hop-pop and Polly were already running towards the hole as Sprig was already through.

I turned back towards the ant just in time to see its pinchers try to grab my head. I dropped down onto my stomach the ground was hard as I made contact. Something grabbed onto my feet and started to drag me. I panicked and started to kick.

“Ow-“ Marcy’s voice yelled as I made contact with my assailant.

“Oh- Marcy-“ I tried apologizing as realization dawned on me, that Marcy was the person that grabbed my feet.

“No time! Get up!” She let go of my feet as I tried to scramble to my knees, watching the frustrated ant charge at me.

Finally, as I made it to my feet I jumped left avoiding the advancing ant then whipped around to run to the hole which almost everyone was through.

Marcy followed behind me, edging me on with small pushes. As soon as we were through Marcy threw a small bag at the hole. Purple-ish vines crept out of the ground then shot up covering the hole.

“Insta-vines. Bred ‘em myself.” Marcy stood tall proud of herself.

“Uh… guys a little help here.” A small voice brought our attention back to the hole. There behind the vines stood Polly with two charging ants behind her.

“Not the baby!” We all yelled as Marcy simply stared. I rushed forward grabbing onto the vines to remove them. They barely budged, rooted in the ground.

“Marcy-“ I tried calling for assistance. My face turned back to see a still Marcy.

She looked conflicted, her eyes as hard as steel as she watched me struggle. “Marcy! Help!” I cried out again, confused about why she wasn’t responding.

“Oh-“ She seemed to snap out of it and rushed to my aid pulling the vines out while I grabbed Polly rushing her to safety. A giant ant slammed against the hole trying to break the wall down. And when that didn’t work it stuck its head through the small opening, screeching at us. Marcy threw another bag, and the strange purple vines covered the hole again. Causing the ants to give up.

“See? That could have been on purpose.” I heard Sprig remark. If Marcy heard him she showed no sign of it. Just simply staring at me.

Why didn’t Marcy help right away?

“It was an honest mistake, Sprig.” Polly retorted.

I couldn’t help but wonder if was that a mistake. I mean Marcy would never hurt anyone on purpose. Maybe she was just scared.

Yeah…

Scared.

“Don’t you think vegetation in Amphibia is just the coolest?” Marcy asked, her eyes full of excitement as she bent down picking a piece of the strange purple plant.

“Uh yeah…” I mumbled my hand going to grab the back of my neck.

“You think vegetables are cool?!” Hop-Pop yelled out grabbing onto Marcy’s back and leading her forward. I stayed behind looking back at the hole.

An honest mistake…

“Anne come on!” Polly yelled out and I quickly turned to run and catch up to the advancing group. 

“There are so many different kinds of vegetation in Amphibia. It’s impossible for me to catalog them all, but I can still dream.” I heard Marcy say after I finally caught up just behind her and HP.

“Oh, yeah, I got lots of vegetables back home-“

Suddenly Marcy’s arms stretched out stopping us from continuing. “Wait. Shh! Get down!” A massive growl interrupted Marcy as I looked past her shoulder. There was a massive, large, grotesque, creature looming over small round rocks. “It's the queen.”

I turned my head away from the monstrous creature. “Well, at least she's a good mother,” Sprig whispered his eyes still trained on the beast.

I looked over at Marcy who was deep in thought. Her eyes calculating, searching our surroundings. “Here's the plan. We're going to have to plant these around the room. That way she gets a nose-full. They're set to go off in five minutes, so move quickly. Also, the queen is nearly blind, but hears really well. So be very, very quiet.” Marcy brought her finger up to her mouth to emphasize being quiet. Sprig grumbled at that and seemed annoyed.

Marcy pulled the shroomes out and gave half to Hop-pop who started to divide them among Polly and Sprig. Marcy gestured for me to follow her as she held onto what was left of her shroomes. My hands gripped my racket as Marcy bent forward stabbing the mushrooms into the ground in a neat line.

My eyes drifted around the cavern, the queen was sniffing around at the small eggs that littered the floor. I resisted a gag as I turned to examine the walls of the cave. Small bioluminescence plants littered the area, allowing a soft glow to fill the cavern. Light leaked in through cracks in the ceiling helping to light the area. I examined the ceiling searching for more cracks. That is when I heard something crack and I looked up to see a rock about to fall onto Marcy. I ran forward pushing her out of the way then grabbing onto the small girl to hide behind the fallen rock. My breath stilled as I could hear the creature turn. I could only hope it couldn’t see us.

“Anne, what are you doing?” Marcy’s voice filled my ears as she whispered harshly.

I looked at her in disbelief, did she seriously not notice that I saved her? “Um, saving you from a giant rock that was about to crush you?”

“Well, you didn't have to. I was about to get out of the way, myself.” Her whisper was harsh and I could help but get annoyed with her.

This always happened. Marcy never appreciated me looking out for her, always thinking she can handle herself. When in reality the girl can’t even run for two seconds without tripping. “No, you weren't. I have to protect you. Like I always do. Just like back home.”

“But we're not back there, Anne.” The reminder was harsh and it filled me with an emotion that made me uncomfortable. “And I've been doing just fine by myself.”

I couldn’t believe this. Does Marcy think I would just let her get hurt? Yeah maybe she’s fine and has been doing well here but that doesn’t me I can’t protect her! “ Yeah, but, but...”

A scream tore through the air as I turned to find Sprig yelling with something attached to his arm.

“Sprig-“ The queen had already reacted as she turned towards the pink frog who just got the small creature off his arm. The queen roared then something long and slimy shot out of her mouth. Grabbing onto Sprig then pulled him straight into her mouth.

“Sprig!” I could hear other people yell with me. The queen now knew there were intruders and she screamed for backup. But I wasn’t going to leave Sprig behind. I started forward but a hand grabbed my shoulder.

“There’s nothing we can do.” Marcy’s voice sounded way too calm for what just happened.

“I can’t just leave him!” My hands balled into fists as I turned towards Marcy. “He’s my friend.”

“Your… friend. But I’m your friend.” Marcy’s eyes flashed in pain as she looked at me.

“Your both my friends. And we never leave a friend behind.” Tears started to roll down my face. Marcy was probably right, there was nothing we could do.

Marcy seemed to recoil at what I said, her eyes focused on me as she seemed conflicted. She seemed to come to a conclusion as she tsked. “I can still save him.”

“Wait?! You can-“ Marcy started to run forward but I grabbed her shoulder.

“No! I'll do it. You just... stay here. Tell me how to save him.” My mind went back to my previous thoughts about Marcy and I couldn’t help but doubt her.

“Anne, only I've studied barbari-ant biology. It has to be me.” Marcy’s face was hard as she looked determined.

“No, it doesn't! I can handle-“

“NO! Do you want the frog to live?” Marcy snapped her eyes focused on my face.

I froze at the acquisition, my eyes looking at the large queen. Marcy was right, there was no way I could understand how to save Sprig and then do it before it became too late. My focus drifted back to Marcy as I finally let go. “Do it.” Marcy nodded then ran forward jumping into the army, leaping from one head to another before finally launching towards the queen.

“Who knew these ants could be so bouncy.” Hop-pop commented as we watched Marcy fly.

“I did because I studied them.” The queen chomped down on Marcy. My heart clenched, as all I could do was hope she could be safe. 

“Dibs on the crossbow,” Polly said from somewhere behind me, the comment didn’t help the sinking feeling in my chest. 

“Come back, you little nerd.” I whispered. Then I gripped my racket, this wasn’t a time to be emotional. I have to help Hop-pop and Polly with the ants. 

My racket connected with an ant’s head as it charged at me, spewing green acidic liquid. My eyes darted to where it fell only to see it get up and try to charge again. The clang was loud as I tried to push back the large creature. 

Suddenly though the queen lurched forward and everyone’s attention turned to the creature. Even the ants turned to their leader. The queen snapped back as it opened its mouth spewing out the green liquid. And along the liquid came out Marcy who was holding an excited Sprig. 

“She did it…” I breathed out as I watched her majestically fly through the sky. Her crossbow fired to slow their descent. It was beautiful… then the queen snapped the rope and they start to tumble toward the ground. A cry of surprise sounded as we all rushed forward, trying to catch them. 

“Oh, no! I gotcha, I gotcha!” This failed and only helped by cushioning their fall. The queen roared and more ants filled the cavern. 

“Marcy? Any ideas?” I turned to Marcy who had her phone out counting down. 

“Three, two, one…” The shrooms exploded releasing a yellow gas that enveloped the area. The queen shrieked and dived backward digging a new tunnel to escape the gas. The smaller ants soon followed. 

“Huh, you know what? It actually smells kinda nice.” I could agree with that. I was half expecting a foul sour smell. 

“I mean, it will liquefy your lungs if you breathe too much of it. So…” Wait… WHAT?!

Sprig’s face turned into one of surprise then a grimace. “Well, time to go!” We all nodded our agreement as we raced out of the cavern. I ran behind Marcy who looked excited, she looked back at me and her face filled with regret.” 

“Hey… thanks for having my back. I acted irresponsibly and shouldn’t have reacted the way I did.” 

This shocked me. When had Marcy become so mature?! “Not that you needed it. You’re right you have changed.” Again that same glint as before passed through Marcy’s eyes. 

“So you’re not mad at us?” She asked tentatively, but there was something else. A rawness that I’ve never seen before. 

“Of course not dude!” Marcy seemed to relax at this as we continued on working our way out of the maze of tunnels. 

_

“MISSION SUCCESS!” Marcy cried out after falling on her face… again. She slowly got up and I saw Sprig approach her. 

“Hey, uh, Marcy? Sorry for all the suspicion earlier. I was wrong about you. You’re no backstabber.” Sprig shuffled his feet in embarrassment. 

“Mhm.” Marcy hummed in response not really looking at Sprig her eyes far away. Then suddenly her eyes snapped down looking at the small frog. “I understand you felt the need to jeopardize everyone’s safety because you couldn’t keep your emotions in check. But that’s okay, little frog, Anne cares about you so I won’t hurt you.” 

That… was weird. Not only did that sound very passive-aggressive but the way Marcy said she would never hurt Sprig because I care about him, felt wrong. It felt like a threat for some strange reason. But Marcy was smiling and she didn’t seem to mean it in that way. I know Marcy has a hard time communicating sometimes, but that wasn’t right. 

“See? That could have been on purpose.”

“But that’s okay, little frog,”

“There’s nothing we can do-” “NO! Do you want the frog to live?”

Past conversations swarmed my head as I looked at Marcy. Who was all giddy leading everyone back to the gates. Marcy has a great memory, able to state facts from years prior like it was nothing. So why didn’t she call the Plantars by their names? Why refer to them as frogs? Also back in the cave… Marcy said we couldn’t save Sprig… but then, later on, said she could. Did she lie at first? Was she planning on not saving Sprig? No that doesn’t make sense, Marcy couldn’t even harm a fly if she wanted to. 

My eyes lingered back to Marcy who was talking again with Hop-pop. She seems to get along with the Plantars just fine, so why would she purposely hurt them? That wouldn’t make sense. 

Would it? 

My mind was going on a rampage now, thinking back to Sasha who pretended to care only to try to kill Hop-pop later. 

“Well, Anne.” My head snapped back to Hop-pop who stood next to me. Marcy was racing in front of everyone with an excited Sprig and Polly after her. “Your friend is quite impressive. Guess she isn’t so clumsy and oblivious now eh?” 

“Yeah… I guess not.” Something panged in my heart but I ignored it, maybe I was just being paranoid from the Sasha incident. I shouldn’t judge Marcy so harshly, she doesn’t connect to people the way I and Sasha do. 

“Always impressive what people are capable of, ain’t it?” Hop-pop asked. What people are capable of … I needed to stop this train of thought. It was going to get me nowhere thinking this way about Marcy. 

Soon we all entered the now-opened gates of the vast city, opening us to the possibility of going home. 

-

Entering into the vast city caused my eyes to be assaulted with lights for the third time that day. Although the scenery quickly washed the bad mood away. I couldn’t help but let a gasp out as my eyes explored the flourishing city. Mushroom towers stood tall and proud, reaching for the sky. Thousands of intercut statues littered the city. Beautiful buildings with long corridors in between filled the city. 

“Woah- look at this place!” I expressed my wonder. 

“Mighty impressive,” Hop-pop added.

Polly soon followed gasping. “I want to touch everything!”

“This is like a city, city,” I commented. This was not at all like Wartwood, the streets were filled with newts in fancy clothes. The buildings towered towards the sky. The amazing statues. This was a city.

Footsteps filled the air as armored newts swarmed the square. I let out a sound of confusion as my eyes watched the new comers with concern. 

Hop-pop asked the question that was swarming through all our minds. “What’s going on?”

“I didn’t do it!” Polly shouted after. 

The newt slammed their spears on the ground twice before separating and letting someone through. A beautiful blue newt came walking through. Her dress resembled ocean waves with a gradient-scaled look. Her hair looked to be half put up in a bun. 

“Well met, Lady Olivia.” Marcy accompanied the title with a small bow, lifting her cape.

“The king sends his greetings, Marcy. He trusts you have succeeded.” Olivia seemed to almost have a bored look on her face. Or maybe it was one of nobility and relaxation. 

Marcy let out little trumpet noises as she pulled an ant head from… where did that come from ?... and threw it to the ground. 

“Ah, still fresh I see. Excellent work as expected of the Great Marcy Wu.” The Lady followed with a snap. In which a smaller yellow-green newt came forward picked up the head and quickly left. Whispering ew along the way. “I see you have… company.”

“Lady Olivia, meet Anne. One of the friends I was telling you about.” Marcy grabbed onto me before i could say hello, dragging me forward. “Turns out she got transported to frog valley.” Olivia made a noise of acknowledgment. “A little town called Wartwood.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you Anne.” She nodded her head in respect.

“You too dude!” I added finger guns before realizing that was probably not very noble of me. So I quickly bowed, “Uh- I mean M’lady.” 

Marcy added hums along before getting excited, “Oh and these are the… Plantar’s.”

“Hey there!” Hop-pop waved.

“Sup.” That was all Polly said.

“Hello! We can bow too!” Sprig then tried to bow. 

Hop-pop and Polly soon followed. “Your Highness.” Before they all fell over, “Oh.” 

“Yes… well, uh, welcome to Newtopia. Planters and Anne, this is an old city, rich in history and splendor.” Olivia seemed to gain an expression of something other than boredom, though that quickly ended. “Please don’t touch anything that looks important. 

“Hey look what I did!” Sprig was chilling on the arm of a statue until it cracked and fell. “I’m okay, statues broken.” 

Lady Olivia looked heavily annoyed, “Do enjoy your stay.” With that Olivia and the guards turned and left. 

“She seems friendly-ish,” Hop-pop commented. 

“So, are you like a big deal or something?” I asked, it was curious that everyone seemed to know Marcy, and Olivia called then great. 

“Let’s just say we have a perfect record when it comes to missions.”

“Okay, so Marcy I’ve got a couple of questions.” Sprig quickly jumped up onto Marcy’s shoulder. “How did you get so smart? What's your clock made out of? What's in this pouch? Where did you get that wrist thing? What was Anne like back home?”

“Kids, will you help me get the fwagon unloaded? Let's give Anne and Marcy some space.” Hop-pop gestured for Sprig to back away which the frog did along with Polly. Of course with a few grumbles along the way.

“Come on! I know the perfect spot!” Marcy grabbed onto my hand and I stared down at the physical touch. It felt good but wrong. Sprig’s words not being able to leave my mind.

This was Marcy. My Marcy. So why does it feel wrong to be around her? Why does it feel like something is wrong?

I looked up at the bubbling teenager, she was all excited dragging me along to this mystery spot. Marcy is Marcy, the cute lovable, harmless, nerd. And that was never going to change.

So maybe I’m just being paranoid, maybe I’m anxious because of the stressful mission.

“Here we are!” Marcy let go of my hand in order to fling her hands forward gesturing to a beautiful fountain on a small pond surrounded by bricks.

Marcy grabbed my hand again leading me forward before plopping down on the edge. Playing with the water. I watched her as she examined her reflection.

“So… what do you want to talk about?” I asked awkwardly sitting down, uncomfortable with the silence.

“Now that you have arrived, I can finally continue with my plan to get us back to earth!” Marcy looked up at me a smile on her features but her eyes were weary.

“Wait really? You have a plan to get us back home?!” I couldn’t help but gasp. I was hoping to find Marcy but after that… nothing.

“Yes! We could be back on earth in a week! I’ve already studied the music box! All we need now is the music box. Which I assume you don’t have.” Marcy chuckled awkwardly and went to grab the back of her neck.

“Actually, I do have the music box.” I couldn’t help but smile. All this time I held the key for us to go home!

“Wait really?! Let us see it!” Marcy’s voice distorted slightly. She didn’t seem to notice and just stared at me expectingly.

“We’ll uh I don’t have it, have it. It’s back in WartWood with some of Hop-pops contacts.” I waved my hand for enthusiasm trying to sound all mysterious.

“Ah, I see.” Marcy’s face fell at that revelation and I couldn’t help but feel guilty, maybe if I had pressed harder, maybe then Hop-pop would have allowed me to take the box with us.

“We’ll I have a picture of it!” I wiped out my phone turned it on and swiped to the picture. As soon as I reached the picture I showed it to Marcy. She grabbed it instantly her eyes scanning the photo.

“Frog- it’s not charged. This will put a setback on our plan.” She tsked lightly before handing me back my phone.

“Not charged?” I asked perplexed.

“The gems are grey. We must have used their powers when we got transported to Amphibia. The problem is that means we will have to recharge them, and I have no idea how to do that.” Marcy frowned, her eyes returning to the reflections dancing in the water.

“Well, that's okay. We can figure something out? What’s our first step marbles?” I asked trying to lighten the mood.

“First things first. We have to find Stren- Sasha. She will be imperative in fueling the box.”

I wanted to ask about why we need her to fuel the box but that thought was pushed aside by the reminder of Sasha. And the tower. And her almost dying. I shivered at the memory. “Oh! Actually, I did find Sasha. We, uh... we had a fight.” I watched as Marcy’s eyes bulged not expecting that response.

“Oh no! Was it bad?” She asked her gaze filled with worry as she leaned forward resting on an outstretched arm. .

“Er... There were maybe some swords, minor explosions. Anyways, I don't know where she is now.” I responded my face falling as I gripped my knees.

“Where was her last location?” Marcy asked, her voice laced with cation. She probably realized this was emotional for me.

“At toad tower. She was working for a toad named Grime.” Marcy’s eye widened at that remark, and she looked away her hand on her chin as if in deep thought.

“Yunan left recently to find a ‘Grime’ who had a bounty on his head for abandoning his post,” Marcy recalled her eyes far away.

“Wait, really?!” I asked surprised.

“When Yunan returns I shall inquire her of Grime’s whereabouts.” Marcy returned to look at me her face full of confidence.

“Are you sure this ‘Yunan’ can find Grime? I mean Amphibia is a large place.” I asked worried that this new hope might not prove itself useful.

“Yunan won’t stop in tell she has found her prey. All we can do is wait and find out how to recharge the box.” Marcy's smile became even bigger as her excitement leaked through.

And I couldn't help but be amazed. Usually, Sasha was the person to make plans and organize things. But Marcy really has stepped up, maybe she’s always been like this. Maybe Sasha always pushed her out of the way or didn’t listen. If only she hadn’t bossed us around, maybe I could have realized sooner my love for the adorable nerd.

“Alright. So tell me, Anne? Did anything exciting happen? Like you know, magically for example?” Her question was oddly specific but I have many stories and photos.

“Of course! I even have photos!” I pulled my phone out flipping to the various photos taken before a disaster. “Here's me and Domino 2. She tried to eat us. Here's me and Sprig by the lake. There was a snake that tried to eat us. Oh, oh! Here's us running from a giant centipede that...”

Marcy interrupted, “Let me guess, tried to eat you?” Her voice sounded slightly annoyed but I brushed it off.

“How did you know?” I asked surprised, she just giggled in response. Which I savored, her voice like sweet honey on a warm summer's eve.

————————————

“Heart has arrived. Which means Strength will soon follow.” The eerie voice filled Andrias’s head as he played with the small wooden piece.

“The pieces are starting to fall into place. It's time for the game to begin.” He set the small carving down, looking at the borad. “Nothing can stop us.”

“We have a concern .” The Core whispered. It was reviewing the day's events and couldn’t help but be annoyed with Heart's attention.

“What do you mean? Everything is going to plan. As soon as Strength is found we can drain them of their powers just like we planned.” Andrias responded his back tensing slightly. Every time the Core was concerned it usually ended with a cruel plan to fix their ‘concern’.

“The companions of Heart. They are distracting her and seem to have an emotional bond with the girl. We can not have this.” The dark creature's voice was intense, emotionless, and snappy in the king's mind.

“I’m sure the frogs won’t be a problem. I mean so what if the girl made some new friends?” The king realized his mistake a little too late. As the minds whiplashed throwing him into the dark in order to look at him eye to eye.

“These frogs can cause distractions. The mission should be completed as soon as possible. We can already tell that Anne is drifting from our host. And the pink one seems to be suspicious of us. We will lower our influence on Marcy, hopefully deterring the frog.” The eyes grew as screens popped up around the king showing him the day's events from Marcy’s eyes. “Hearts powers have been accessed. We don’t understand how, and Heart seems to not be aware of it. This can danger our plan. Her powers depend on emotion, raw emotion. As weak as that is, it is dangerous. The family can cause her powers to activate completely before we have a chance to drain them.”

“Are you sure you're not overblowing this? I mean, how can a few frogs trigger the lock on her Calamity powers?” The king shifted his view back to the eyes. Refusing to look at the tainted orange memories of Marcy. No… Marcy died. She died in that basement. The king shivered at the memories of her screams, begging him to stop. 

“ Raw emotion. What if one of her ‘found family’ members gets damaged? Already her powers have activated and we presume it wasn’t always just for HER security.” The eyes shifted, growing slightly larger as the minds conversed with each other. “We also don’t want this ‘Sprig’ to get in between our host and heart. If he starts convincing Heart to suspect us, that could be detrimental. We will efficiently remain undetected while continuing to monitor Marcy. Though our effects cannot be large anymore, they must be subtle. If Heart catches on or the frogs increase their suspicion, we may need to clean the mess.”

“I understand. I will try to get this fixed as soon as possible. Maybe we can convince Anne to leave the frogs for the mission of the stones. If not.. I will take care of it with other means” Andrias clenched his fist. How was he supposed to fix this? If the core noticed Hearts bond with the frogs, it would mean that it is strong. She may not be easily influenced to forget about them. He could get rid of the family forever, but that could cause Heart to activate. He could send them away, saying they are not needed, but sending them away could cause Heart to not trust him.

“ We expect at much. If you fail then we will take matters into our own hands and annihilate this distraction.” Andrias couldn’t help but flinch at what the Core was saying. Of course, the Core has killed many people, maybe even thousands. But it was talking about killing them with Marcy’s hands. This made the king very uncomfortable. “ Now excuse us. We have more work to do, we must search our archives for information on the temple's whereabouts.”

The dark abyss faded as the orange eyes closed leaving the king to his thoughts. His hand hovered over the board before switching to the enemy wart, then back to his own. He flicked it and watched as it fell. So easily defeated, a servant to a larger master.

And that was all he thought as the king turned away preparing himself to meet the new player.