Chapter Eight
Tick Tock.
Tick Tock.
Tick Tock.
The clock hands travelled around the face of the large clock on the wall. A flustered Jack and Bunny were now standing at opposite ends of the room, both emitting an aura filled with shame and embarrassment, both males naturally fearful and concerned for their well-being, their thoughts also similar by the fact that they had imagined scenarios of which all played out their deaths by your hands. Occasionally, they glanced at one another before quickly turning away, until…
"Hey mate…"
Jack turned to face Bunnymund, a grimace settled upon his features. "She's going to kill us, isn't she?" He questioned the Pooka, of whom seemed to turn pale, even though his fur could not change colour.
"Um…Something along those lines, mate. Yeah." Bunnymund replied, gulping before glancing around, his eyes then flicking back to Jack.
"Okay, mate. I say we never speak of it again. And by no means should North ever find out…" Bunnymund's sentence fell into a whisper as his gaze flickered down towards the small elf at their feet, of whom peered up with curiosity. Reacting in a panicked state, Jack quickly tapped the elf with his staff, instantly freezing the poor critter, before Bunnymund, kicked him away and down the staircase. Jack then turned to Bunny and nodded his head.
"Deal" He stated simply as a large bell sounded and North came up the opposite staircase
to the one the elf had taken a tumble down.
"Come come, you two. Breakfast is being served~!"
The Yetis had already begun to bring out bronze plates, with piles of food settled upon them. It was mostly things like toast, and cheese, a fried eggs and slices of bacon and a lot of blini, a Russian style pancake. Jams and spreads of all different shades, red, yellow and orange, were placed along the wooden table as the three Guardians sat themselves down at the end. Jack's eyes widened at the amount of food and his jaw dropped.
"North, y'know there's only five of us eating, right?" He inquired, ducking as a Yetis placed a large bowl of fruit upon the table. The frost spirit then raised his head to examine the strawberries and raspberries in the bowl, before reaching out and picking up a single shiny red apple from the bowl and tossing it from hand to hand. The Yeti that had been laying down the cutlery and plates, tapped Jack's hand and shook his head.
"Blorfmgah!"
Jack cringed, guessing that the Yeti was gesturing to the fact that he was playing with his food, and the Guardian laughed sheepishly, placing the apple onto his plate. "Sorry~" He replied before turning to Bunnymund, who was eyeing the carrots with a small glint of desire in his emerald orbs. North patted his belly and sang, "Feeding time, belly!"
This caused Bunny and Jack to throw an odd stare at North, while the Yetis continued to set the table for breakfast. After all the food was laid out, practically smothering the wood in platters and bowls, the boys awkwardly fell into silence; Jack prodding his apple impatiently while Bunnymund stamped his foot lightly and North planned out in what order he would eat the food.
"Blimey! How long are they gonna take?!" The Easter Bunny suddenly exclaimed leaning forward upon the table, his ears pointing upwards in a confused manner.
"I know! I was thinking the same thing! Does it really take so much effort to put on a few clothes?!" Jack agreed, shrugging his shoulders with a frown settled upon his face. At this point, North had noticed something and silenced them both by holding up the palms of his hands at them. "Wait…Where is Sandy?" He questioned, glancing at Jack and then to Bunny. Almost on queue, a puff of golden sand shimmered beneath the table and a high-pitched giggle followed. The three Guardians exchanged looks of confusion before they all bent over to peer beneath the wooden surface. The scene they saw was more than slightly surprising.
"Sandy?! What are you doing under there?!" North asked, his thick brows arched as blue
orbs met two pairs of wide eyes. Sandy passed his cup of eggnog over to the elf sitting next to him and quickly pointed at the supposed culprit. Scattered around them both were around twenty empty cups and to Sandy's left was a large jug, most likely empty, or still with remnants of the eggnog that had once brimmed the edge. The elf let out a gasp and just stared as Sandy got up and dusted himself down before heading over to the North. But before he reached the edge of the table, he backtracked a few steps, took the cup from the elf and downed its contents, after which did he return the cup and then walk out from the beneath the table, releasing a small hiccup of which came in the form of another small puff of sand from his mouth.
Jack sat upright in his seat, laughing at this but when his azure eyes flickered towards the balcony overlooking the toy shop and the globe, he abruptly fell silent. Bunnymund sat up and looked across the table at Jack, about to inquire if he was alright, but he instead followed Jack's gaze and his jaw dropped slightly. North had just finished scolding Sandy, whom had noticed the two females at the top of the staircase and was pointing towards them frantically.
"Yes, yes, Sandy. But we cannot blame little elf now, can we? Even if he is extremely…uh..special." The Guardian of Wonder finished before sighing and glancing at the Sandman. "Sandy. Haven't you listened to what I just…" He drifted off as his eyes also followed the direction of Sandy's pointed finger and North blinked once or twice as he took in the sight.
Your lips quivered slightly as all four pairs of eyes set upon you and you couldn't help but feel incredibly nervous. The only sound to be heard, was that of the work in the toy shop below and the fluttering of the fairies that were still admiring their handiwork and that of their Queen. Toothiana cleared her throat, arching her brows quickly before jilting her head towards you in a gesture for the boys to invite you to take a seat. North coughed before pushing his chair back and standing up.
"Ah, Amber! We were just waiting for you! You like the clothing the Yetis made for you, yes?" He questioned beckoning for Jack to get up and pull out a chair for you as you approached the table, cheeks pulsing a soft scarlet.
"Y-Yeah~ They're lovely" You replied softly, a smile gracing your glossy lips as you sat in your seat and whispered your thanks to Jack. If it hadn't have been for the hair that had conveniently fallen across your eyes, you could have sworn you saw Jack's cheeks redden slightly before he turned away from you and returned to his seat.
"Okay, everyone! Eat to heart's content! But after you have filled your bellies, we talk about the situation at our hands, yes?" North inquired those at the table with an arched brow to see if anyone opposed his plan for the breakfast meeting, only to find everyone nodding their heads in agreement. The Guardian of Wonder smiled at this before clapping his hands twice.
"Then, let us eat!"
Instantly the Guardians began to serve themselves, using the serving spoons and the other
pieces of cutlery to gather food upon their plates. Bunnymund served himself practically the whole bowl of carrots, refusing to even look at the fried eggs. North, of whom had already filled his plate with blini and bacon, scolded Bunny, and an argument blossomed between the two, something along the lines of the Pooka being a baby. Sandy had already had his fill of eggnog, so simply helped himself to the variety of berries, while Tooth gave into the temptation of the fine cheeses, going into a full discussion about her love for the European delicacy with her fairies, all of whom were munching upon the crackers. While this was all going on, you simply gathered a few slices of toast on your plate and then reached for the stawberry jam. Unfortunately, being sat at such a large table, you couldn't quite reach the jam and your fingers uselessly brushed the glass side of the jar, before a pale hand grasped the jar and placed it before you. You lifted your head to look at Jack, mumbling an embarrassed 'Thank you', before twisting the lid off of the jar.
"Hey…um…"
You glanced up once more to look at Jack as he spoke, eyebrows arched. "Yes?" You replied, wearing an inquisitive expression.
"You look…You look really nice." Jack murmured, gaze briefly meeting your own before he quickly tore his eyes away, cheeks blooming a pale rose. A light smile spread across your features as your finger tips gently brushed his knuckles. Though his skin usually had a colder touch than the average person, the moment your fingers came in contact with Jack's hand, an odd warmth spread from the meeting point and up your arm, as if it were travelling through your blood, before it hit your heart and the warmth flooded your entire being, and the desire for another wave of the sensation caused you to gently clasp his hand. By this point, not only Jack had noticed the soft hold upon him, but Baby Tooth and Sandy had noted the development of interaction, giving each a knowing smile, while Jack simply stared at your slim hand and then raised his azure eyes to transfer the stare to your lightly painted cheeks.
"Thank you…" You whispered, glancing at him out of the corner of your eye, to easily spy the growing smile and the pearly white teeth.
"No problem." He replied, relishing your touch as he felt himself melt into a state of relaxation. When you began to slip your hand away, he reacted quickly, his hand snatching yours before you could pull it too far away from him. A sharp intake of breath and your gaze flew to your hand in his, the warmth now replaced with a shock, similar to electricity, running through you, sending goosebumps up your arm.
"Not yet." You heard Jack whisper, before you glanced at the others and pulled your joined hands off the table, hiding them by your side. Jack's brows furrowed questioningly but you pressed a finger to your lips and jerked your head slightly towards the other Guardians. His mouth formed an 'O' shape before it split into a large grin, and you felt him squeeze your hand playfully. You let out a small chuckle before picking up your knife with your right hand, and scooping a dollop of jam unto the blade. But when you attempted to spread it onto your toast, the bread simply skidded across the plate, for you had no hand to hold it still. That was, until Jack's hand came across and held it's crusted edges, allowing you to spread the jam. You laughed as you accidentally smothered one of Jack's fingers in the sticky spread, and he too joined in.
North and Bunny quietened as they glanced over at the two teens, Tooth catching on fairly quickly and smiling happily, finding the scene rather adorable, while Bunny and North hadn't cottoned on that much and simply shrugged it off as kids being kids.
"Sorry~" You chimed innocently, and Jack smirked before lifting up his finger and wiping the jam onto your cheek. You gasped and tried to wipe it off, only spreading it down your face. Jack began to laugh, although it was cut short as he let out a small yelp.
"Ow!"
You glared at him, your face twisted into a somewhat demonic grin as you dug you nails into his hand. "I still haven't got you back for earlier, have I?" You questioned, as Jack grimaced, offering a small, "Sorry?"
Unable to help yourself, your evil demeanour fell and you let go of his hand, laughing again. Then you glanced over at North, who had finally finished filling his belly, as had the other Guardians, and the Yetis were already cleaning the plates. Quickly you grabbed another slice of toast, before they were taken away fromthe table. Jack had noticed the same thing and snatched up the jam covered toast on you plate and taking a large bite before setting it back down.
"Hey!" You exclaimed, your jaw dropping. "That's mine!" You glared playfully at Jack as you grabbed the butter, and took off the lid. Jack met your glare with his signature smirk, unfazed.
"I know." He stated simply, as you began to spread the butter over your second slice of toast.
"Jerk." You muttered, a smile hidden in the corner of your mouth, as you picked up the jam toast and also took a bite, a little disappointed that it had grown slightly cold. Jack picked up the apple on his plate, before offering the empty dish to the Yeti walking past. You rushed to finish off both slices of toast, and also give your plate to the Yetis, who in return gave you what you believed was a smile, though their long fur prevented it from being seen clearly.
"Okay, everyone, breakfast is over, we now move on to meeting." North stated clearly, gathering everyone's attention. His old blue eyes drifted over to you and you gulped slightly, butterflies throwing a storm inside you. Here came the answers. And the only question you had in your mind at the time was,
'Will I want to know the true answers?'
North placed his elbow on the table, resting his chin upon his knuckles. "Now. We all know why Amber is among us. Why? Because she is not safe in her own home. Why?" He questioned, causing the Guardians to glance at each other and then at you. Sandy looked over at North and formed a question mark above his head. The old man nodded his head and slammed a clenched fist onto the table. "Because our enemy is targeting her, for some unknown reason, that is why." He replied, and Toothiana's feathers bristled as she glanced at your downcast face. Although she had not known you long, she could not deny that she felt an almost sibling attachment to you, feeling the full urge to protect you from any harm.
"Does Manny know about her and what Pitch is up to?" Bunnymund spoke up, frowning fiercely. He had still not forgiven the Boogeyman for what he had done on Easter Sunday all those years ago. Sandy nodded in agreement with Bunny's question, looking back up at North.
"There's only one way to find out." Jack added in, taking another bite of his apple. You throw him a confused look and open your mouth to form a reply, but North interrupts before the words leave your tongue.
"You will know who Manny is soon." He stated simply, before pushing his chair back and standing up. "Everybody to the globe room." North ordered. Your eyes widened and you quickly scrambled out of your chair, accidentally swinging you arm to hit Jack's head.
"Ouch! Amber! Jack yelped, turning to throw you a frown, as he finished the last of his apple, but by the time he had looked, you were already frantically rushing over to North, your eyes filled with pure concern and a flood of worry filled your expression.
"Wait! North!" You exclaimed, pulling on his arm causing him to halt and turn to you with a questioning gaze.
"What is it, little one?" North questioned, patting your head gently in a way to comfort you, for he could practically feel your panic in the air.
"You said you'd answer my questions at this meeting so please tell me; where are my brother and sister?" You pleadingly asked, tears brimming your eyes. You were incredibly worried, even though you had been in such a light mood only moments ago. North couldn't help but feel a wave of pity soak into his expression, as he laid both hands on your shoulders and pulled you into a large embrace.
"Calm yourself, they are in safe hands. A good ally of the Guardians is taking care of them. They're out of danger." He told you, causing you to relax into the hug and nod, mumbling a quiet 'Okay' into North's thick clothing. A large hand rubbed your back gently before you felt a bob on the head, and lifted your head to meet a sapphire gaze.
"Y'know, we can take you to see them later, if you want?" Jack offered with a grin as he floated over you before meeting North's calm eyes. "Right, North?"
"Of course. We cannot keep family apart." North chuckled lightly before letting you go and patting your shoulder twice. "Come come. The others have already gone ahead and we do not have all the day." He stated softly. You gave him a quick nod before running after Jack, who was already flying ahead.
Eventually, all the Guardians and yourself were settled in the globe room, the Guardians conversing by the fireplace, while you were stood by the balcony, leaning over the side to peer down at the work going on. All of sudden, you felt a light push to your back and you hugged the handrail tightly, in fear of tumbling over the other side. Quickly, you whipped your head around to throw a sharp glare at Jack.
"What?" He chuckled innocently, gaining him a flick on the nose. In reaction he let out a small yelp jumping away from you before a grin played upon his lips. "Y'know, Amber, I could take you for another tour~~" He practically threatened. Your eyes widened and you released the handrail and waved your hands frantically.
"Nope! I'm fine~!" You replied sweetly, your gaze flickering over to the other Guardians. You then looked back to Jack and asked, "Jack…? How did you guys become…well…What you are?"
Jack's eyes widened, his eyebrows lifting as he walked over to you and tuck his hand into the large pocket on the front of his frosted hoodie. "Well…Are you sure you want to hear? I doubt you'll be that impressed, y'know?" He offered, but when he gained a pleading look from you, he let out a sigh and began.
"Okay, well…I'm not too sure about the other Guardians' stories, but we were all humans once." He paused and glanced over to you, smirking when he noted your face spread with confusion. "Yeah. We all had lives of our own, and when they ended, the Man in the Moon, or as we call him, Manny-"
"Oh, I see." You mumbled to yourself, quiet enough not to interrupt Jack.
"-Gave us the chance to live again, but in this life, we had a duty. A duty to protect the children of the world. There are quite a lot of spirits, like Mother Nature, the Leprechaun, the Mermaid, it goes on. But there are only five of us, Guardians. Although all spirits look after the well-being of the living, we have been given something specific to protect, to guard."
Your eyes shone at this and you nodded your head in a way to urge the spirit to continue. Jack chuckled, letting out another sigh before agreeing to your request and doing so.
"Okay, well seeing as no one has actually introduced themselves to you fully, I'll do it now." He began before pointing over at North.
"You know North, Santa Claus. And he is the Guardian of Wonder. Toothiana, the Tooth Fairy, she is the Guardian of Memories." Jack explained, pointing at the hovering female, surrounded by her fairies. Then he moved onto the two Guardians standing by the farthest pillar. "Sandy, the Sandman, is the Guardian of Dreams and Bunnymund, the Easter Bunny, is the Guardian of Hope." He finished off, before turning to you, closing his eyes as he grinned and jerked a thumb at himself.
"And I'm the Guardian of Fun. Impressive, huh, Amber?" He chuckled, opening his eyes to a silence. "Amber?" He asked again, but you did not reply. You didn't do anything other than stand there, eyes looked onto the moon that had appeared in the glass window above you.
Everything else became blurred and seemingly insignificant, and all you could hear was this sweet song that filled your entire core, swimming through your mind and clearing away your negativity, a song you thought you recognised, a voice that did not sound foreign to your ears. In this daze, you didn't notice any change when the moon beam fell upon you and pulled you gently into the air, nor did you notice the Guardians gathered on the floor beneath, looking up in awe.
But you couldn't help but feel as though it was all…familiar…
"Sweet child, daughter of the star…" A male voice called loud and clear, as you brought into a pure white embrace, filled with warmth. "You are confused and scared, are you not?" The voice questioned, yet in reply you shook your head.
"Not right now…" You whispered as your senses began to return, yet all you could feel was curiosity and pure wonder.
"That is good, child. But…You must have your wits. You are in grave danger, and I am afraid that it was I who has caused it." The voice explained, sadness and regret dripping in its tone. "Child…Do you know when you were born?" The voice questioned.
"Um…My birthday is the 21st of May?" You offered, your face forming a frown as you looked up to the moon, still shining above you.
"On the night you were born, the Northern Star threw one of her rays down to her Earth, in hope that part of her could live a life on the Earth she had adored for millions of years. Yet, her ray would not have survived on its own, and wishing to help, I reflected the pure starlight into the body of a new-born child. You." The voice explained, its story-telling almost sending you back to your childhood when you had sat on your Father's lap and listened to his wondrous adventures.
"Wait…." You started but the voice quickly cut in, seemingly panicked.
"Dear child, my time is almost up, and I have more to tell you. Listen carefully." It ordered in a gentle manner, and you obliged, shutting your mouth and staring into the moon's intense gaze.
"The Boogeyman, Pitch, wishes to be rid of me. He has tried to destroy the Guardians before now and failed, blaming my own actions for this failure. But now, he has knowledge of the starlight within you. If he manages to take it from you, he could unlock its full potential using darkness, knowing that it's dark matter could destroy me." The voice told you quickly, rushing as clouds began to gather, nearly blocking the moon beam. "But, to get the starlight, he needs you to relinquish it, whether it's through death or other means." The voice warned you, and you felt a pit rise in your stomach. You could be murdered? The thought hadn't even occurred to you before in your whole life.
Now, you were scared.
"What do I do?!" You asked in a panicked manner, eyes searching for some answer in the face of the moon.
"You must find your centre." It replied. "Find your centre and allow your own starlight to break through the barriers of human nature. To do this, you must-"
The voice was abruptly cut off as clouds blocked the moon from view, and everything fell apart. The pure white became ushered with glitter and waves of blue, and the air was rushing past as you fell towards the depths of the ice glacier.
'Wait…What?!'
A scream erupted from your throat as you plummeted down from the sky, where the beam had pulled you out of the window and into the cold outside world. Eyes brimmed with newly formed tears, you began to claw at the sky, trying in vain to snatch the clouds far, far above you.
'I'm going to die…' You thought before cursing up at the cloud covered moon. "Goddammit Manny!" You yelled, tears streaming through the air, along with your long locks of blonde hair.
"Aw, what did he do now?" A familiar voice chuckled from your right, and you looked past your tears at the Guardian of Fun, falling next to you, as gravity pulled straight into the mouth of the ice glacier, it's large cavern swallowing you whole.
"JACK?!"
