Author's Note:
For those who have viewed the covers and commented, I am very glad you like them! Reminder to readers, just have to go to Wattpad or wait till the books are out!
MY SPEAKERS BLEW OUT AND I DONT HAVE NETFLIX RIGHT NOW SO THIS WAS REALLY HARD! Especially since every website I found to watch it for free did not support CC at all.
I also had to stop like a hundred times while writing the scene where they were saying bye to Aaarrrgghh… I cry when I see others cry and it was so hard to do.
Fair warning, I finally got an animation computer and is currently working on 3D Animation for college so I completely forgot about this until the team nearly blew up my phone.
Replies to your Reviews:
Yubel578: I know! Right as I was getting used to seeing him as a troll, but he's adorable no matter what! We thought it would be funny if Eli was actually right about what he was saying since he's smart and interested in this kind of stuff. Shows how much he's paying attention! We never realized what Blinky said in that part of the episode acted as if it was foreshadowing Jim's change so we were like, "not letting this chance go!"
To Wattpad and Fanfiction: The comments in the chapter "It's About Time" really made our days! We enjoyed reading those, especially when Eli predicted the future. You guys are amazing and thanks for all the support! Writing this story is tough and a challenge to us but we are glad we wrote it for you guys! You and your comments are hilarious, we seriously love reading them all.
Side Notes:
We are almost done with season one you guys! Longest season ever! Now time to enjoy Wingmen.
The episode began as if it had never ended, reminding the viewers of Strickler's unfortunate situation. A groan of pain escaped his lip and he gripped the steering wheel in a tight hold. His free hand rubbed his sore mouth, unaware of Angor stalking behind him. The horrid moment finally had dawned on him when his panicked eyes laid on his bare finger that had sported the ring.
"What the hell are we watching?! This is not the same stuff! He's creepy!"
"Are we about to witness Strickler's murder because of something he did to protect himself!? How the tables have turned." Someone mentioned, Strickler sighing at them, giggles echoing around them.
Jim just simply shrugged, he was asked to save his mother, not Strickler. What he did was justified and none of the Trolls had been arguing. Yes, he felt a bit of guilt putting Strickler through this fear, however, at the same time, he was laughing inside.
Did he want the teacher to die? No. Did he exactly know that Angor would chase after Strickler, maybe.
Claire caught his look of thought, understanding instantly what he had been thinking. Giving Jim a reassuring smile, she shook her head, mumbling on how he did what he thought was right, and who knows, Strickler could still come out alive, despite everyone's wishes.
Frantically, his hands dug through his pockets, hoping that he had misplaced it, until his eyes had caught movement in his rearview mirror, moving it slightly, he saw the haunting sight of Angor's pale eyes. The troll's angry screech echoed through the car and down Walt's spine, his blood running cold and piecing it together. Strickler turned in shock, hand pressed to his cheek as the assassin charged at him.
"Oh no," Strickler's voice was filled with nervousness and his hand moved to grip the transmitter, sliding it rapidly in reverse. His foot pressed the pedal to the car floor, beads of sweat glistening on his forehead and his heart pounding. Forcefully knocking his killer on his back, Strickler put his vehicle back in drive, only to find Angor missing, the scene too silent for comfort.
Strickler peered through the windows, trying to find the traitorous assassin, unaware of his location. Nothing occurred until a few seconds later, a blade slashed through the bottom of his car, Strickler let out a piercing scream.
Everyone had jumped, holding their hands over their rapidly beating hearts. They were not ready if that blade had not missed. Some of the teachers had been quiet, unsure what to do about one of their coworkers nearly dying but also being some evil mastermind.
Fleeing the area, his car skidding through the streets, Strickler's face grew pale and he instantly caught sight of Angor who charged after him. The troll leaped onto the roof of the car, luckily, the car stood in between them, saving Walt from an unfortunate death. However, Angor was reluctant and sliced through the roof, his prey managing to avoid every fatal blow.
Through the curvy streets, Strickler could barely keep control of his car, luckily the road had been vacant. Angor let out a grunt, leaping from the car after losing his grip, Strickler, however, not stopping. When it grew silent once again, the Changeling scanned the area, ready for the blade. When his focus locked on in front of him, he found a familiar stone hand, gripping the front of the car. Anogr had pulled himself up to the windshield and startled the Impure.
"This is a damn horror film….. I- I just… OH MY GOD I HATE HORROR MOVIES!"
He neared the cliffside when Angor's head appeared in the open passenger window, "you cannot escape me now," Angor threatened, positioning himself before reaching through and grabbing the Changeling's shoulder, the man still crying out in worry.
"Why on earth would you have not rolled up your windows? Are you dumb, stupid, or dumb?"
"After I'm through with you, I'll kill the Trollhunter and everyone else!" Angor declared.
A lot had disagreed with the troll on the screen, threatening the Assassin as if they could actually live up to those threats.
"Are you mad!?" Strickler called out to him, trying to shake him.
"No!" The assassin answered, "I'm free!" Strickler screamed and his eyes caught sight of the tight turn he wasn't able to make. He turned to his car door and didn't hesitate to open it, leaping from the moving vehicle. Angor went with it, grunting as he fell from a horrendous height.
Strickler ran to the edge, watching as his car crashed, even though it was not in sight, glass shattering was heard, the metal caving in with every roll. With no clear sight of Angor, Walt took off, only for the scene to change.
Blinky was inspecting the green gem, Jim stood beside him, explaining his adventurous day, finishing off with, "then I took the Killstone from him, and never looked back."
"A valiant risk for the second Triumbic stone, but you say Angor's ring was destroyed?" Jim's mentor said, handing the stone back to the said boy who slid it safely in his pocket.
"Yeah, he wasn't very happy to lose his soul, now that no one controls him, I guess he'll be on a warpath."
Someone snorted at that.
"All the more reason to find the third and last stone," Claire's voice echoed, starling Blinky. She and Toby walked in as she continued, "before he shows up again." Toby simply ignored the topic, jumping over to Blinky in excitement, the troll smiling at his arrival.
"Hey, hey! Good to see you back to normal Blinky!" Toby waved his arms behind the surprised troll, giving the illusion of Blinky now sporting two human arms. "I was starting to miss you there."
Blinky cradled the book against him, reminiscing, "Ah, my only regret is that I never had a chance to drive one of your automobiles," he said, steering the open book like a wheel.
"Say what was that legend again?" Jim asked in Claire's direction, the said girl leaning against the bookshelf, hand hovering over the covers. Her eyes scrunched as she recited the poem-like guide.
"Three forces elemental, thou must seek, in Marshlands, Cavern's Deep, and Mountain's Peak." She turned to her friends who had wide eyes and slacked shoulders, all staring at her in shock. Not phased, she smiled, "if I can memorize four hundred lines of Shakespeare, I can remember that."
"I can't even remember what I was doing four minutes ago, but alright."
"Tell me about it, freaking out cause you can't find your phone and it's in the bathroom because you were taking a poop and had to set it down to wash your hands."
Jim raised his eyebrows, turning to Claire who chuckled. How'd this conversation get so weird in just less than three seconds? She simply rolled her eyes.
"Check and check on the Marshlands and Mountain," Toby started, counting on his fingers before he had pulled the book from Blinky's hands and hiding beneath it, "that just leaves us the Caverns Deep."
Blinky pulled the book from the stout boy's grip, "trouble is Tobias, all Trolls live in Caverns Deep. To search them all would far outlast our lifespans." Blinky went silent before he looked around, "Has anyone seen Aaarrrgghh? If we ever plan on finding the final stone we'll need all hands on deck."
Speaking of hands and poor Aaarrrgghh, the troll had been holding out his infected hand, a soft humming was heard as Vendel's staff had hovered near the growing wound. Aaarrrgghh watched in remorse, some of his hand had grown stiff, small pigments had been seen, discoloring his hand.
"How come so far every scene change has been ironic?! Stop it!"
"Can you wiggle your fingers?" Vendel asked, the sound of crunching had answered the question when Aaarrrgghh tried to move them.
"Nuh, uh." He simply answered.
"The poison has spread, it will only grow worse. I'm afraid the effects are irreversible." Vendel said, eyes softening when he noticed Aaarrrgghh had turned away, not able to look the elder troll in the eyes. "You still haven't told your friends?"
"Must help fight Gunmar," Aaarrrgghh said, seeming to avoid the question with an excuse.
The Trollhunting team pretty much deflated at that. He was implying that his issue was less than defeating Gunmar. If only Aaarrrgghh told them, they'd hold off on Gunmar and focus on their dying friend.
"Then I suppose you'll tell them you punched a wall," The elder Troll wrapped the dying limb in a bandage, covering it from anyone's sight. "You stubborn brute. But one of these days they'll find you turned to solid stone. You'll have to tell them."
Aaarrrgghh looked at the bandage, worried for the times to come, "not today." Placing a hand on Aaarrrgghh's injured, Vendel did his best to comfort him.
"Very well my friend, not today." The two sat in silence before the scene changed to a busy and chatty Trollmarket, everyone blissfully unaware of their comrade dying in a slow horrifying way.
"This is the most supporting and calm I have seen Vendel and when it happens, you know it's serious." Someone commented, Vendel agreeing. The student only met him through the shows but he easily understood the troll's complex behavior.
Aaarrrgghh did his best to avoid the unwanted gazes of the theater, they felt remorse, however, he didn't want that. He wanted to aid his friends and to see them victorious. He was worrying them and he hated that.
The three teens were found moving through the crowd of trolls while Jim was busy looking over the Killstone, Toby beginning to talk as he pointed finger guns in Jim's direction who had been walking a little farther ahead.
"So the last stone gave you those sweet thigh blades, what do you think this one will do?" The chubby friend asked, the said stone becoming the center of attention.
"I don't know," Jim started, his two friends wore calm smiles as if nothing was wrong in the world. "We'll have to cut it and then we'll-" before Jim voiced his train of thought, a horn blowing had caught everyone's attention, the Trollhunter team turning to inspect where it came from.
"What was that?" Claire asked, her question answered when lights began to dim, and every creature that inhabited Trollmarket had moved to see the unsuspecting arrival.
"Not sure but stay close," worried it could be a call of danger, Jim donned his armor. Only for Bagdwella to push through them and lightly scold him.
"Put that sword away. Don't you know our guests are sensitive to light?" She said, stepping off. The guests have finally been revealed, bulky trolls slowly stomped through the pathways, their Queen standing on a flat perch, being carried through the market.
"Yes, they would understand what is going on." A student said sarcastically, Bagdwella rolling her eyes.
"Guests?" Jim's voice rang out. Trolls around them had dipped their heads in respect, the queen's face filled with no emotion as she studied those below her.
"Wow," Claire said breathlessly, her friends watching in shock as Blinky had finally joined them. "They all look like Aaarrrgghh."
"Okay, I get what you mean Claire, but how the hell are you seeing Aaarrrgghh in any of those guys?! They're all blue and literally twins!" Eli said, shaking his head.
"Maybe because they're pretty buff and built the same?" She shrugged, unsure how to answer that. Aaarrrgghh was pretty unique compared to the rest of them.
"Queen Usurna of the Krubera. They reside in the deepest caverns under the Earth's mantle. Rarely do they venture this close to the surface." As the mentor spoke, Aaarrrgghh had also stepped behind them, seeing his former family in his new home.
"Another ironic scene! Let me guess, she doesn't have it. I can already feel the twist coming."
"SHUT UP! STOP JINXING IT!"
The camera panned behind Jim and Blinky, the Queen and her fellow trolls were still in sight. "Deepest Caverns?" Jim asked, turning to face Blinky, "Y-you don't think that…"
"It's possible, if not convenient." The guards of Queen Usurna bowed, lowering her platform, enabling her to step off safely and right to Vendel who had greeted her.
"Your visit is an unexpected honor," the elder troll stated, bowing in front of her, her lips growing into a small smile.
"Vendel." She simply answered. Behind Vendel, the Trollhunters had bowed as well, Jim slightly lifting his head and studied the welcomed guests.
"They're as talkative as Aaarrrgghh too," Jim stated, his voice was low. Toby's, however, was a little louder, not caring to whisper.
Blinky grinned at that statement. Queen Usurna rarely spoke unless she had something to say. She had always been to herself, however, she spoke a lot more smoothly than his friend Aaarrrgghh. Not that he was judging.
Vendel rolled his eyes, "do I want to know how this visit will go." His tone was deadpanned, clearly not wanting this to go any further.
"I thought Aaarrrgghh was a Gumm-Gumm."
"Aaarrrgghh was," Blinky said in a quiet tone, lightly hinting to Toby to lower his own, "but he was born a Krubera." Reaching over, Jim moving out of the way, Blinky had covered Toby's mouth, the said boy looking in shock at the sudden move. "Now, hush."
"Okay. Hold on." A student said, facing Blinky. "I remember in the book, Aaarrrgghh was in fact a Gumm-Gumm, eating people and such. But I thought that he was a Gumm-Gumm from the beginning. How on earth could he be born this "Krubera" troll?"
"Surely it must be explained in this episode." Blinky turned to Aaarrrgghh who had been tense throughout the episode, not to mention, ever since they all figured that the troll had been dying to begin with. "Aaarrrgghh had a tragic past. If not recited later, I will promise to explain."
The student nodded, turning to face the screen, now everyone's mind working harder to figure out what had really happened to Aaarrrgghh and how he ended up in Trollmarket.
As the trio's conversation quickly died, Queen Usurna turned to Aaarrrgghh, her face calm at the sight of him. She stepped over, her staff clinking against the stone and Vendel moved the side, letting her near the brute and dying troll.
"Aarghaumont, my kingstro." The two bowed, Aaarrrgghh humming as their foreheads had joined, the carvings on Aaarrrgghh had glowed a purplish hue, the two silent as they rejoined. "The centuries pass, yet, you remain forever in our hearts." She covered her chest, Aaarrrgghh smiling softly.
"My queen." She said nothing more and stepped to the side, stopping in front of Blinky and Jim, the poor Trollhunter looking nervous to be presented to her.
"Allow me to introduce our Trollhunter, slayer of Gunmar's son." He shoved Jim lightly forward, Jim finding it hard to speak.
"Uh, James Lake Jr. your Queenness." She hooked her finger beneath his jaw, inspecting him.
People chuckled, some even repeating the word "queenness." Barbara shook her head with a playful smile, knowing what she wanted to say.
"Come one hun, queenness? I thought I taught you how to speak to one." Jim blushed when the attention turned on him, tripping over his own words.
"N-n-no. I… I don't remember that."
"Human Trollhunter, I heard stories, didn't believe." As she spoke and moved Jim's cheeks around, Toby had stepped up, gently elbowing his best friend in the side, mumbling.
"Ask her about the stone."
"Y-your highness...lady," Jim stuttered, Toby nervously laughing, "I recently heard a story about the deep caverns and a magical stone."
"DEAR GOODNESS JIM!" Everyone laughed, Jim's face growing even brighter - if possible. They picked on him about speaking to the queen while Vendel had worn a stoic face, unsure what to say to this. Especially when he seemed to be trying so hard to make the Queen's visit horrendous.
As Jim spoke, the queen stared him down, confused at the matter but didn't seem angry. "A stone?"
"Uh, from a trilogy of some sorts," Toby started, "some might say of the Triumbric variety." Before a reply could be told, the golden staff belonging to Vendel had appeared in front of the nervous teens, cutting them off.
"That's not how you speak to a Queen," he scolded, however, Queen Usurna didn't mind, instead, she simply let out a small chuckle and turned to the teens.
"Yeah! Learn your manners, you two!"
"Their informality is amusing. No, Trollhunter, we do not have it but I am familiar with that which you seek. It was once in our possession but stolen years ago."
The student who so-called jinxed it, had all eyes on him. "I told you, damn it."
"We're blaming you, stop talking." Some had let out a chuckle while the trolls had watched the fleshbags attack the one, Draal was more excited than the others.
"But if you don't have it, why did you come here?" Jim asked innocently before jumping back, panicked features etched on his face as Vendel grew close.
"Wow Jim, way to welcome her with open arms," Mary snorted. Jim groaned into his hand. That had probably been the dumbest question he had ever asked. He pretty much said to a queen that her visit was useless. He was one impressive Trollhunter.
Vendel groaned, shaking his head while Blinky laughed at Jim's comment, the poor boy was clueless and it amused him, especially when Vendel seemed angered by the comments.
"To celebrate this rare and momentous visit. I propose a grand match of Pryoblixtz!" Trollmarket agreed at the idea, cheering and throwing their fists in the air.
"So aggressive Vendel."
"Then it is wise that I brought with me our tribe's two hottious trolls," Queen Usurna said, stepping forward and to the side, revealing to large and serious trolls. A troll stepped up, dreamily sighing as she felt his arm.
"How could she even tell the difference on who was better compared to the rest. Do these guys even have names?!"
"What happens if one goes missing and uses the other's name to cover it up. They will never know."
"Dude. That's dark."
"None of you should be able to speak to a queen, ever." Vendel hissed. Their comments could raise anger. Trollmarket had a bad reputation in some places, no reason for the Krubera to be against them.
"Aaarrrgghh will represent us," Vendel started, Aaarrrgghh stepping forward. "To be paired with our Trollhunter." Jim gasped at the news, the crowd cheering and Toby jumped excitedly beside him.
"Yeah! Go Jimbo, yeah!" Jim didn't look so amused at the news.
"Jim. I love you." Someone laughed, the expression on Jim's face had said it all and it was mildly amusing.
"Wait, Pryoblixtz What is that, a game?" The Trollhunter asked, turning to Blinky.
"Oh, it is a tradition as old as it is dismembering." Jim looked shocked at that, not thinking it was a very good idea anymore.
"Wait what?"
"Why does everything have to involve violence with you trolls!?"
"We don't die as easily. Pain is nothing but a joke." Draal said, smiling proudly at his kind.
"I shall look forward to the game, later this evening." The Krubera stepped off, leaving poor Jim to comprehend all of it. Gently grabbing Jim's shoulders, Blinky pushed him out of the screen, only to be found near the stone wheel.
Jim pressed the Killstone against the wheel, sparks flying from the contact at Claire and Toby watched beside him. Blinky was explaining why Aaarrrgghh was in Trollmarket instead of with his own kind as the Trollhunter focused on the stone.
"Long ago, the old wars, Gunmar raided the Krubera Caverns. Gumm-Gumms kidnapped their young to list them for their army."
Toby perked up with the rest of the students, so it was being explained. Aaarrrgghh, however, seemed uncomfortable. He didn't enjoy the center of attention and this whole episode had been about him.
"If the Krubera are so sensitive to light, how come Aaarrrgghh isn't?" Toby asked.
"Aaarrrgghh was forced to adapt in many ways. Hardened to survive."
"Is that why he doesn't speak as elegantly as they do?" Claire inputted.
"Being ripped away from your home at such a tender age has a way of stunning one's potential." Blinky answered, Toby dropping at what he had just heard. Beside them, Claire and Jim were studying the stone before pressing back against the rapidly moving wheel.
"So Gunmar kidnapped them?! That is terrible."
"I thought he had a larger army?" Eli asked, unsure about the situation.
"He did, however, the taste of blood had caused him to rampage villages to increase his numbers. After all, King Arthur had killed every troll on sight. It was possible Gunmar could have lost a few or half of his army over time."
"That's the saddest thing I've ever heard." Toby's mood instantly changed when the Killstone began to glow, the two other teens shocked at the sight. Finally finished, Jim pulled it from between the metal tongs, inspecting it carefully. It had shrunk, a small light shining from within.
Toby couldn't help himself, he had shoved into Jim, trying to reach for it. "Whoa!"
"That's how Toby looks when he sees chocolate."
"Toby!" Jim scolded, gently elbowing him, "get back. This is a delicate and sacred ritual and you're drooling all over it." Jim gently rubbed his thumb over it, cleaning it.
"Look at that faceting." Claire said breathlessly.
"Two stones down and one more to go." Jim said, his amulet opening and accepting the stone, "until we give Gunmar the payback he deserves." They watched as the amulet lifted itself in the air, programming the new stone.
"Hell yeah! He was rude for doing that to Aaarrrgghh! We will avenge you buddy!"
Within the pub, Vendel had been pouring Glug into a mug, grabbing the other cup. "Time and distance had separated our tribes for too long." He said, setting the cups down.
"May the match bring forth a new era for friendship and cooperation," the Queen spoke, inspecting the drink before setting it back down, wiping her hands.
"Save your hogwash Usurna, I know why you're here." Vendel said, sitting across from her.
"Oop, serious mood change. Vendel was like, alright you jerk, I know why you are here. Shut up."
"The Krubera trolls can sense when the light dims in one of our tribe." She slammed her fist against the table, her voice raising, "Aarghaumont is dying, if he returns to our cave, the salt mines will allow him to live out his centuries."
Speaking of Aaarrrgghh, he had peaked from behind the wall, listening in on their conversation. Vendel speaking against her.
"Trollmarket is his home."
"It will be his deathbed!" She cried out, Aaarrrgghh sighing and lowering his head at the news, which he pretty much already knew.
"I already hate her."
"I hope she becomes an enemy so we have a reason to kill her!"
"Or, we could just resent her?"
"Lame."
"His friends are here." Aaarrrgghh stepped off, no longer being able to listen in.
"As the Queen of the Krubera, I have the right to return him to our fold. There will be no debate!" She stood, leaning across the table, Vendel doing the same. However, Vendel kept a calm tone unlike Usurna.
"Oh hell no. HELL. NO. You will not take the Precious Bean! I WILL NOT ALLOW THIS!" A young female, by the name of Hopestar552, said. Her face red with anger.
"As ThE qUeEn Of ThE kRuBeRa."
"Then I propose a friendly wager."
The queen laughed at that, "Trollmarket has never won a game of Pryoblixtz. Ever!"
"We've never had a human Trollhunter on our team either. I have come to expect the impossible from the boy. If you will."
Jim smiled at that, it was the nicest thing Vendel has said to him, especially to a Queen who seemed to have doubts about everything. If she was staying, Jim could already feel her becoming an annoyance to the team. Hopefully she didn't stick around.
"Aarghaumont comes with us, and if Trollmarket wins…"
"Then Aaarrrgghh will choose for himself." Not saying anything else, the two shook hands, sealing the deal. Sturdy glares being shared before the scene changed.
Aaarrrgghh relaxed, Vendel had been on his side, willing to let the former Krubera decide for himself. While Usurna argued about what she thought was better for him, Vendel had given Aaarrrgghh the chance.
Pitch black covered Arcadia, the nightfall darkening every corner. From the side of a building, Strickler appeared, searching the area before he caught sight of what he had been looking for. Letting out a breath of relief, he ran to the object, running into the street and right in front of a red car racing down.
"Oh, he's still important right now?"
It stopped suddenly, Strickler running to the passenger door. "Oh, thank Heavens, you made it," Strickler pulled at the door but it didn't open. "Let me in, we don't have time, Angor won't stop until he finds us."
The driver, Otto, rollowe down the window, the leader of the Goblins sitting in the passenger seat, growling.
"Ah, you are mistaken my friend. He won't stop until he finds you." He corrected, the two giving Strickler angry snarls and evil grins. Strickler stumbled at that before pulling at the handle again.
"Wait a hot minute, is Otto going against Strickler?!" Strickler rolled his eyes, that man had always been sketchy, not a complete surprise that he was being tratiours against him. However, it seemed to Walt that he didn't seem to notice in the episode. Probably blinded by fear.
This was making him look weak and desperate and it was not helping his case.
"I demand you open the door!" Strickler says desperately.
Everyone blinked, "You're the one who resurrected him because you were too scared to fight a 16-year-old boy. Couldn't fight the wars you started because your little game piece got brutally murdered by the Trollhunters. Now look at that, crying for help because you messed up and don't have protection against Angor."
Strickler was quiet, reflecting on the events leading up to this. He couldn't admit that he was wrong and yes, this was his fault. Staying quiet had been working out since they started reacting to the show, there was no way he could talk back now.
Otto kept his grin, "you no longer make demands. The Janus order has discussed matters," as he spoke, Strickler clenched his teeth, eyes furrowed in worry. His world had been falling apart. "Well, we seek the return of Gunmar, you seek only your own glory."
"I seek glory for all Changelings," Strickler demanded, but only received the reply of the Goblin blowing a raspberry and mocking him with his hands. The green creature laughed, watching as Strickler wiped the spit from his face.
"... That is just straight up the dumbest thing I have ever heard. Literally look back in the other episodes, you say otherwise."
"Angor Rot will kill me! You know that!"
"Oopsie."
"I will send flowers," Otto said, waving as the window was rolled up, the car quickly spun, turning and nearly taking out Strickler in the process if he hadn't jumped out of the way. Strickler watched as the car sped off, letting the scene change to the Trollhunters standing in the gate.
Everyone squealed at that, the best thing they had heard so far and Strickler's face was even more so amusing.
"Everytime something does not go Strickler's way and he's on his own to keep from dying, he seems to nearly piss his pants. Bular, Jim, now Angor. If he doesn't have something to keep him safe, he's about to die and is crying for his mother."
"What did I tell you mom, bad news." Jim joked, shaking his head and Barbara chuckled at that.
"No fair, you knew more than I had. Charmed by his lies."
"So, how do we play this game? I really should have asked earlier." Jim laughed nervously, heart beating fast.
The crowd roared as the opposite team entered the ring, the two tossing the ball back and forth. Jim rolled his eyes, mumbling "oh boy," at the sight. Draal leaned close to the boy.
Everyone smiled at Jim's nervous comments and posture. This would be exciting.
"The object is simple," Draal started, hand on the boy. "You and Aaarrrgghh need to get the gorb past the team and into the Scoothscryer."
"Yeah," Claire started, "but where's Aaarrrgghh?"
"I thought he was with Tobias," Blinky said right as Vendel stepped up to the team.
"Blinkous, where is Aaarrrgghh?"
Blinky looked worried, "he isn't here? I-I hardly noticed," the troll lied.
Vendel's already stoic face somehow had dropped even farther. Of course, Blinky would pull something like that.
"It is imperative that he play. You, the big headed one, he likes you. Go find him." Vendel said, Toby saluting him and stepping off. "Draal, you're in."
"It will be my honour to compete in the forge once again."
"Not compete, win." Vendel corrected.
"It is only a game, Vendel," Blinky said, a calm smile against Vendel's harsh tone.
"This isn't a game." The elder troll looked around before Jim called him.
"If you told them, they would understand why you're extremely hotheaded."
"Okay, Vendel, can I have my amulet back now?"
"You didn't tell the boy?" Vendel said, facing Draal who sighed.
"In Pryoblixtz, combatants must earn their weapons. Including your amulet." The camera stopped on the amulet peached in a small hoop.
"Great," Jim said with a frown.
"You take the small one, I'll handle the big guy." Draal said, pushing Jim gently with him and out into the middle of the Hero's Forge. The two stood across from their opponents who growled, baring their teeth.
Jim, however, turned to Draal, very confused. "Which one is the small one?"
Everyone laughed, pretty much agreeing with Jim. The boy looked lost already and the game had started. Speaking of Jim, he had been shaking his head. How in the hell did he get wrapped into this game. Was it worth it to see how much he embarrassed himself?
"Hard to tell, huh? They are bred for combat, trained to kill." Jim's face as Draal spoke grew more and more worried.
"Draal! Knock it off, you're scaring him." Barbara hissed. "Don't tell him that yet!"
"Thank you for that." The arena floor spun, the Scoothscryer appearing from the ground and out shot the ball, the Krubera team charging for it, easily catching the Gorb. However, they didn't get far before Draal had tackled him, the spectators never silent.
The metal ball bounced away, "Grab it, grab it." Draal said and Jim followed the command, chasing after it. As Jim followed it's trail, the other Krubera had chased as well, quickly cutting the distance between him and Jim.
Right as Jim was going to grip the ball, he was grabbed by the waist and tossed back like a ragdoll. The said Trollhunter flying through the air and skitting over the edge, screaming as he managed to get a grip on the ledge.
The crowd was fuming at the sight, the Krubera already on their hate list. First, they threatened to steal Aaarrrgghh back, then Queen Usurna wanted to be cocky, and then the opponents nearly killed Jim.
Jim groaned, they probably expected him to fully understand this game. He knew it. This will go badly.
Claire gasped at that, running into the ring but hadn't got far as Blinky pulled her back. Her desperation to run out was seized. As the Krubera got a hold on the ball, Draal had chased after them, hoping to knock them down but sadly missed.
"Yes Claire, go save your boyfriend," the comment instantly made the two blush, scooting from one another. These two needed to get over it and kiss already.
The other team scored, and a red flame erupted from the top of the Scoothscryer. With a victorious roar to the crowd, the rest of the Krubera had cheered. The scorekeeper sat near a table, grabbing a Gnome with a red hat and pierced the shield with the Gnome's sharp tip, the said pint creature celebrating as well.
"Are they really using Gnomes to score? That's hilarious."
Draal had finally made it to the Cliffside, helping Jim who was trying to pull himself up. With a few grunts, the Trollhunter was finally safely pulled up and he caught his breath as the massive troll leaned to his height.
"I'm going to need that amulet." From the sidelines, Claire nearly raged.
"How was that hit legal, he nearly killed him!"
"YESSSSSSS! RAGE, GET ANGRY! KEEP YOUR PRECIOUS BOY SAFE BECAUSE YOU TWO ARE ADORABLE!" And away from everyone's view, Jim and Claire's hands had joined, the two smiling at one another.
"Unfortunately, killing is fairplay in Pryoblixtz," Blinky said with a sad smile. Up above, Queen Usurna and Vendel had been talking, the Queen wearing a smug smile.
"Your human Trollhunter plays as well as I expected," Vendel glared at her, not happy with what she had said. Out of Trollmarket, a wooden door was pushed open, revealing Toby who had poked his head through.
"Shut up you stupid bi-"
"WHOA! PG13 PLEASE!"
"She's a jerk, let me take her down with my hurtful words!"
"Nana? Are you home?" With no reply, Toby closed the door and ran to the stairs to his bedroom. Opening it up, he had found Aaaarrrgghh, a big lump beneath the blue comforter. Familiar music echoing from the T.V.
"Where's Aaarrrgghh. I can't find him anywhere in that room," a student sarcastically, a smile on their face.
"I know you're under there," Toby said, sitting beside the hidden Troll. "I can hear you play Go, Go Sushi," Toby went to lift the blanket but Aaarrrgghh quickly moved it down. However, Toby didn't rest, he had pulled at it again, the two playing tug-a-war until the sound of defeat came from the game, Aaarrrgghh groaning at the loss.
"I have no idea but that was the most amusing thing I have ever seen. You both warm my heart."
"What're you doing?" Toby asked, Aaarrrgghh finally giving up and letting his friend pull down the blanket. "We always play that together. What happened to your hand?" Toby asked, noticing it. The Troll pulled the limb away, avoiding making eye contact.
"Hit wall, no biggie." Toby smiled and bent down a little.
"LIAR! LET TOBY LOVE YOU!"
"What's going on? You've been real weird since the Quagawumps." With no reply, Toby pointed to the door, "Jim needs you for the Pyro- technical, whatever magigger."
The reminder had broken everyone inside. His friends had noticed throughout the time but were afraid to question it. Toby sighed, he wished he pressed it onto Aaarrrgghh sooner, so they could be there for him, put a stop to their plans and loved Aaarrrgghh a lot more.
"Toby Pie!" Nana called from downstairs, startling the boy. "Is that you I hear?"
"She's home, quick hide!" Toby said, the two panicking as the door jiggled open. WIth nowhere to run, Toby threw the comforter back over Aaarrrgghh's head, "Put this over your shoulders." Toby quickly tried to stop the door from opening with his foot before he peeked his head around the corner of it, coming face to face with his grandma.
"Toby!"
The boy laughed nervously, "what are you doing home Nana? Thought you were out playing bingo." The two struggled with the door, one trying to keep it closed while the other wanted it open.
Toby watched with wide eyes, people were laughing around him at the sight of him struggling with his grandma and possibly losing.
"I was taking a cat-nap," Toby struggled with the door, grunting but she had managed to shove through, catching the heap of the troll, "Oh, we have a guest." Toby quickly pushed her out, using his body to try and close the door but Nana was not having it.
Using her backside, she had shoved the door open, Toby flying across the room at the sudden force. She turned to look at the guest.
Jim chuckled, turning to his friend who had been beet-red. Toby quickly turned to Jim, silently threatening him not to say it.
"You didn't introduce me. Ooou!" She said, the blanket falling from Aaarrrgghh's side.
"He's a friend, I can explain!" Toby said, stepping in between as if it would hide the vast troll. With heavy breathing, Toby waved his arms but in Nana's view, she had fixed her glasses, only seeing a blurry image of a tall person with tons of hair, barely a distinct image of Aaarrrgghh.
The trolls relaxed, remembering that the old lady had been half blind. How awkward would it be if Nana had seen that it was a troll? Depending on her personality, she might not react as badly as everyone else would. Nana was a sweet girl.
"He's so tall and hairy." Toby played along as she squinted her eyes, trying to see better.
"Yes! He is freakishly tall, ah, this is Aa-Arthur Sashimisushi. He's an exchange student who will be staying with us for a little while, he's from Japan. He's an amuter sumo wrestler."
"I've seen you guys come up with incredible lies, even on the spot, and this is what you come up with Toby?" Darci said in shock, unsure how to process what the boy said on the screen.
"I don't know what I'm thinking, not my best work." The girl smiled, glad he wasn't affected by her joke. She never wanted to hurt him.
"How exciting," Nana said, "Konichewa."
"Go-Niki-Wa." Aaarrrgghh said, trying his best to pronounce the new word he had just been introduced too. The two had nervous smiles, glad she had bought it but didn't know how else to react.
Back in Trollmarket, the Krubera rolled throughout the Forge, up a wall and arming himself with a mace. Down below, Jim was chasing the ball, doing his best but barely getting a grip on it. The Gorb rolled in the direction of the armed Krubera who swung at it like a baseball game, knocking it from Jim's path and to the other Krubera who had a hammer.
Draal tried his best to block it, missing it by a hair and the other team scoring. The Krubera team was now up by three points, the Gnomes chatting while the two trolls had collided weapons. Jim watched helplessly before turning to Draal.
"You guys don't seem to be doing too hot."
"Thank you for that confidence booster." Jim mumbled, already hating how he was failing at a game that was going to give Aaarrrgghh his own chance to do what he pleased. If only Jim knew sooner, he'd put his life and soul into the game instead of constantly whining that it wasn't working out for their side.
"Why don't we ever get the Gorb?!" Before Draal could answer, Jim turned and held up a hand, "wait, let me guess. Have to earn that too." Draal excitedly put a hand on Jim's shoulder.
"Now you are learning Pryoblixtz!" He turned to look at the glowing amulet which was responding probably to Jim's distress but was unable to get to him. "I'll buy you time." Jim nodded once before the Gorb had shot out, signaling the next round.
The Krubera had bounced it off his chest and into the air before wacking it with the hammer. The other troll had hit it back, giving it to his teammate who had instantly been tackled by Draal. The blue troll eyed an awaiting axe before running to retrieve it.
The Krubera troll sat up with a growl, noticing his teammate swinging at Jim who ducked and dived from the blow. Standing and ready to throw, the Krubera followed his teammate, aiming but Draal had suddenly appeared swinging the axe and knocking him to the floor.
People in the theater cheered for Draal, their excitement growing, some even mentioning that this had been better than the sports they usually watch.
"Go Trollhunter!" Jim took the signal and took off in the direction of the amulet. The other Krubera had rolled in the same direction, hoping to stop the boy from getting the amulet.
With his eye on the amulet, Jim smiled before he had caught sight of the rolling body of the troll coming at him. The said troll leaped with a yell, raising his mace and ready to strike Jim. However, luckily the boy had leaped from the blow, landing on the Troll's head and using it to propel himself up in the air.
Getting a hold on the amulet, Jim dropped from the air, "For the Glory of Merlin, Daylight is mine to command!" He yelled, twisting in air as the armor appeared, landing in a crouch. Instantly standing as Trollmarket cheered, the armored Trollhunter wasted no time to get to the ball, the angry Krubera following after him.
Once again, the theater cheered, Barbara clapping for her son and cheering him on, well, both Jims. The Trollhunter relaxed when he finally managed to retrieve his amulet. It would do him so much better and it would finally get them a better score.
Draal raised the gorb in the air, the other Krubera rolling to corner Jim. As the two rolled from each direction, Jim ran to a nearby blade, leaping onto the sharp edge and easily climbing up it. He made it to the tip, the Kruberas trying to reach him yet, he had flown from the blade and into the air, Draal throwing the ball in Jim's direction.
Jim had easily caught it and aimed it in the goal, throwing it in as he passed and epicly landed in front of it, scoring the first goal for Trollmarket. Blue smoke finally poured from the Scoothscryer, Trollmarket finally cheering and the blue hatted Gnomes couldn't contain their excitement.
"That's my boy!"
"GO JIM! TEAM AAARRRGGHH!" Everyone chanted, the trolls celebrating as well but not as crazed as the students. The troll hunting team was, infact, quiet, tension in the air. They needed this win and hoped that the future looked good for them.
One was lifted from the bunch and thrown at the blue painted shield, chatting happily but the red Gnomes paid no mind.
Usurna watched with a glare, this time Vendel wearing the cocky grin. "It's the human body, quite nimble." Vendel smiled more when the queen angrily shook her head, the scene changing back to Toby who rubbed his full belly while his nana removed his empty plate from the table.
Jim smiled at that, Vendel seemed proud, and it was very hard to accomplish.
"Another slice, Arthurson?" Aaarrrgghh shook his head, waving to her to politely decline but she set the pie down anyways, "I insist. Who could say no to pie." Aaarrrgghh pushed the plate to Toby, who eagerly stook a fork in it.
"Hold on, they're waiting for Aaarrrgghh and Toby and you two are eating pie?! Man, you should be at that game. Unless this is an important break…." Toby shook it off, his wingman was scared, conflicted, and also nervous. He needed time and Toby was always one to get to the bottom of solving one of his friend's issues.
"Aye man, I get why you're hiding. Dealing with family can be stressful, I mean, take me and Nana, sure, she's half blind and smells like moth balls but she took me in after what happened to my parents. She loves me, everytime I get frustrated with her, I just think about that." He took more bites from his pie.
"What the hell do moth balls smell like?"
"Toby. Should we be concerned?"
"More importantly, we didn't know something happened to your parents… comfortable sharing?" Darci asked, using a caring tone.
"Maybe later… right now, Aaarrrgghh is the bigger picture." Toby dropped his head, Jim putting a supporting hand on his shoulder.
Nana stepped up, holding his magic hat, "Oh, sorry Toby pie, Mr. Meow Meow Pl used your gentleman's cap as a potty."
Toby groaned grabbing it from her, "Ah! My magic hat!" He looked at his Nana who seemed sad at his angered tone. Aaarrrgghh looked at her then Toby who's face dropped which quickly changed into a smile, "that's okay Nana, I'll just get another."
She smiled and rubbed his hair, laughing. "Your family came all this way to see you, the least you can do is spend some time with them." Toby said before sniffing his hat and retching. "That's gnarly. Are you hungry?"
Aaarrrgghh licked his lips in response and devoured the hat, humming happily. The scene changed once again to the Gorb flying out from within the Scoothscryer, Draal instantly catching it. Before he could be knocked off his feet, and brutally at that, the son of Kanjigar had thrown it to his awaiting partner, Jim catching it with ease.
The crowd continued to roar even though Jim didn't even get a chance to move before a mace collided with his stomach, his body propelling through the air. The ball landed in the Krubera's hands, the one that had struck Jim down and easily made the goal, his kind cheering for the win.
"Dude, these guys aren't playing around."
"What if they were already filled in on the situation and were trying to stop the Trollhunters from winning so they can take Aaarrrgghh back!?"
"What if they're evil! Nah, there is no way that is possible," another said. "It's not like they'd give Aaarrrgghh up to Gunmar if he ever got out."
They roared to their side of the crowd before stepping out of the way, revealing Draal walking towards the downed Trollhunter.
"Is it over? Please say it's over," Jim nearly begged, Draal holding out a hand to help the boy to a stand.
"Tis the scolding hour," Draal simply answered, the boy finally sitting up but out of breath.
"The we do what hour?"
Draal gripped the boy's arms, pulling him up back on his feet. "We seal our wounds with burning hot metal, in preparation for the second half!" The blue troll was excited, flexing but Jim on the other hand, was not.
"That sounds terrible but Draal seems excited so it mustn't be too bad…"
"Yep, take Draal's word for it."
"Eh, I'll pass." As Jim spoke, Claire and Blinky had joined the pair, Jim's mentor eagerly running up beside him.
"Well done Master Jim! And by well done I mean at least you haven't completely embarrassed yourself, or died!"
"We should probably work on his pep talks and celebrations."
"I see nothing wrong with it. Why fix something that isn't broken?" Blinky asked, the student giving him a look.
"How could it be broken if nothing is there?" This time, Vendel let out a laugh, actually a genuine laugh. The fleshbags had a sense of humor, he had to give them that. Blinky, however, grumbled, folding all four of his arms.
"Thanks Blink," Jim said with a slight smile, knowing the Troll was doing his best. It was also nice to hear that he wasn't embarrassing himself like he thought. It was still bad, however.
"Aaarrrgghh still isn't here," Vendel's voice rang out, joining them as they were heading back to their side.
"I've tried Toby, no answer," Claire responded. "Aaarrrgghh might not make it back."
"Because they're too busy eating pee filled hats and pie!"
"We must win!" Vendel said, Blinky smiling as he put in his input.
"I know, for the Glory of Trollmarket."
Vendel shot it down, seriousness over his features, like always, "fools play for glory, we are playing for Aaarrrgghh." Jim and Blinky eyes grew in shock at the news.
Everyone was silent, Vendel had broken the news, the air becoming thick with tension and no one had spoke. This is where everything must change and they didn't like it.
"What?" Blinky asked, Vendel turning to look back at the scoreboard.
"If they win, they are taking Aaarrrgghh away forever." The elder troll finally broke the news, Blinky had been staring at the troll as if he had heard wrong.
"They can do that?!" Jim cried, turning to Blinky who gently rested his hand on Jim's shoulder, "why?!"
"But, why, where, doesn't matter! Just win the match." Vendel scolded, seeming stressed out by the matter. Saying nothing more to the group, the Elder troll turned and stepped off, leaving the team to figure out the issue at hand, realizing how much more serious this game had actually been.
"We're not going to win," Jim stated, slumping in defeat.
"Not with that attitude, what you need is some cheerleaders." Jim shook his head, gosh no, just imagine who the cheerleaders would be. He shivered at the thought.
"We may be down but we're not out! This is the Forge, where Heroes are born," Draal said, raising his fist, dramatic music accompanying the scene.
"We're down four to one," Jim added.
"And we're going to be down one more if we give up on Aaarrrgghh, my father watches us from above. Let us make the Trollhunters of the past, proud. Let us make Trollmarket proud. Let us show our guests the humbling they deserve!" As Draal grew to the end of his speech, his voice grew louder and more fierce. His hand pummeled his own fist as the two players eyed the waiting Krubera.
"Yeah! Take them fools out!"
"Fools play for glory, but we play for Aaarrrgghh!" Blinky cried, the name fueling Jim's determination, his eyes narrowing at the sight. They were ready with a whole new purpose and a lot more confidence.
"For Aaarrrgghh!" Jim yelled in return, his arms in the air.
From Jim's confident cry, the scene changed instantly to him and Draal stepping to the middle of the field, an epic drum sound making the scene dramatic. As they stepped to the center, smoke shot from the cracks in the Hero's Forge, loud rumbling was the only thing interrupting the silence of the arena.
The platforms lifted, raising the goal even higher, the movements never ceased, the axes swinging and the floors twisting. Jim and Draal readied themselves, now having one thing in mind to make sure they win.
"For Aaarrrgghh?" Draal reminded, a grin on his face.
Aaarrrgghh's heart swelled at their cries. They were willing to do it for him and they had a strong reason to win. His friends cared about him a lot, even more so than the Krubera. She seemed to want what was best for him but hadn't asked what he wanted instead, just assumed that he would come with her.
"For Aaarrrgghh," Jim said his eyes narrowed in determination. On cue, the Scoothscryer had spit out the ball, the object falling and the other team didn't hesitate to chase after it, jumping easily through the swinging and falling axes.
The Krubera trolls rolled across the arena, metal contraptions shooting from the ground and spitting fire at Jim and Draal who avoided the rapidly fired arrows.
Draal lifted his human friend, "stay on the ball." Before Jim could say anything, Draal threw him, the Trollhunter flying through the air. However, the ball was beyond his reach so Jim gripped the axe, using it to flip off and onto a platform, running after the metal ball.
"That just made everything more epic and I absolutely love it!"
"Draal just threw him, no warning."
The said object collided with the side of a platform ricocheting off and the other team managing to get their hands on it. With a grunt, the one Krubera threw the ball, his other teammate appearing from a higher platform, catching it with ease. Luckily, the roar of Draal signaled that he was nearby.
Draal leaped towards the other troll, missing him but not giving up, the two fought above on the platform, Draal climbing onto the Krubera's back and holding him in a choke hold, the ball slipping through their grips.
As the other teammate rolled and climbed to the ball, Jim was running, breathing heavily but no where near exhausted. His adrenaline pumped through him, his glare hardened. With courage, Jim leaped off the high raised platform, his amulet glowing as he chanted out his friend's name.
"Aaarrrgghh!" He cried out, a shield unfolding, the design of a moth-like creature was carved in the center. As the Krubera was spinning through the air, close to scoring, Jim had collided with him, a blue ring of smoke came from the collison. The opponent lost his hold on the ball, where it went was no longer seen as the blue and vibrant smoke covered the screen.
The crowd gasped. What an epic way to reveal the shield. The theater was impressed, loving every second of the match. Jim couldn't help but nod, he was working hard for his friend and that was all he wanted to see. He needed to win, for his friends and their choices.
He would do it again if he had too.
"Dude that is one awesome shield," a young boy said, smiling as he nodded in approving matter.
"Look at that, even the football team likes us," Toby joked, realizing how much their lives had been affected because of this.
When it was clear, Draal had flown through it, catching the purple ball and finally scoring. The horn blew and the crowd cheered at the epic transition and scoring. JIm had finally landed on his feet, inspecting his new shield with a smile.
"Cool," the Trollhunter said and chuckled, Draal landing beside him, holding Jim's arm to get a closer look.
"A warrior's shield! You've earned it." Jim smiled up at him, "now test it!" The two used their forearms, a different celebration move before the duo called out for Aaarrrgghh again, the crowd cheering with them.
Down below, Claire and Blinky were spectating, the girl turning to face Blinky with a smile.
"Since when does Jim have a shield?"
"He's unlocked the power of his second stone!" Blinky said happily, proud of his boy. Another blue hatted Gnome was thrown into the shield right next to the other and they shared a hug chattering excitedly. The red Gnomes growled, crossing their arms as they watched their competitors.
Someone chuckled, "they're getting a bit jealous."
"I like how this is technically the Gnome's sport. Who will fill up the shield first. They're really competitive."
Through the flames, the Krubera troll had gotten a tight hold on the ball, the fire licking at his arms as he had reached up to grab it. Draal didn't hesitate, roaring as he and the other troll fought, sparks emitting when their backs collided.
Winning the ball, Draal took off, leaping high into the air and landing beside the goal. Raising the ball in the air, he yelled for Aaarrrgghh before scoring. The spectators raised their fists with happy cheers.
The next score for the Trollhunters was Jim riding on an axe, the ball between his arm and side as he also cried out Aaarrrgghh's name. He tossed the ball into the mouth of the Scoothscryer, one of the Krubera missing it completely. More blue smoke erupted, the crowd was stomping their feet, all chanting while Jim celebrated with them, passing through still perched on the axe.
"Look how tiny Jim looks on that axe."
Everyone clapped for the team, happy they were making the goals. People were on the edge of their seats, even Vendel who also seemed proud of the team, this was the most points they had ever gotten.
Back to the scoreboard, more Gnomes were added to the blue side, their side still chatting, some even mocking the Red side which wasn't amused in the slightest. Jim and Draal met in the center, the two smiling in victory.
"We've tied it up!" Jim said, his excitement clear.
"Next score wins," Draal placed a hand on Jim's shoulder, the boy smiling while his eyes scrunched in determination, "Time to finish it."
"It seems too easy, there is no way you're going to finish it at this moment." The students groaned, knowing they could be right but didn't want that outcome, especially since it took a toll on Aaarrrgghh who hadn't even been present to the game.
The other team prepared themselves, ready to leap when Draal had passed, chasing the ball. They rolled up the wall, Draal peeling himself away from the solid surface and throwing the ball away, since the opponents were too close for comfort.
It bounced off near Vendel and Usurna, the two flinching before their attention turned to Jim who grunted when he had caught it. The boy didn't waste time, he took off, using his shield as a mirror and spotting a Krubera behind him, cutting closer.
"Jim! Here!" Draal cried out. Jim twisted, the ball flying from his hands and bouncing off the wall, right so Draal could catch it. He had almost got a grip on the ball but the Krubera had knocked him from the sky, slamming him into the floor.
"Nice toss and aim! You should join the sports teams at school, I've seen you play dodgeball!"
The ball had fallen into the abyss and Queen Usurna's troll members had cheered this time. As the ball was being recovered, Blinky and Claire had gasped, running up to Draal's limp form, Jim making it there first and trying to catch the poor Troll's attention.
"Look at that, just had to say something." Their worry for Draal was clear but was also disappointed that this never worked out how they wanted it too.
"Draal! Are you okay?!"
The said troll grunted, shaking his head trying to shake off the daze. Blinky and Claire had finally reached the pair, Blinky gently pulling Jim aside before resting near Draal who still wasn't coherent with the world around him.
"Am I in the Void?" Draal asked breathlessly before reaching out his hand weakly to the sky, "father, Father!" His father's invisible departure had made his eyes grow in size. Blinky whacked the troll's chin, earning no other reaction.
"It'll take time for that hit to wear off," Blinky stated, inspecting his eyes, Draal groaning with every forced movement of his head.
Claire looked frantically at their opponents and pointed her finger in their direction, "Problem is, he doesn't have time." The team turned to the Krubera, watching as the ball flew into their hands, giving them the upper hand that Trollmarket desired to have.
"We'll never find a suitable replacement," Blinky started turning to Jim, Claire gently placing a hand on the boy's shoulder, "you'll have to take them both on."
"By myself?!" Jim exclaimed, holding his forehead, "for Pete's sake!"
"Not for Pete! For Aaarrrgghh!" Blinky chanted, not understanding the human phrase. Saying nothing, Jim turned to Claire with a tired expression as her face contorted in worry. Jim smiled at her before stepping off, the two sharing a quick moment in silence.
Some had laughed because of Blinky's misunderstanding while others cooed at the small gesture Claire and Jim had done, she was supporting him and he enjoyed it. They should get together already, in show and in person.
The other team had leaped onto a platform, ball in hand, Jim not far behind as he summoned his sword. As one Krubera leaped further up, the other one quickly tossed the ball to him before trying to slow Jim down.
However, the Trollhunter took the brute by surprise, sliding under him with a grunt and letting go of his sword, the weapon spinning in mid air and colliding with the ball, knocking it out of the Krubera's unsuspecting hands.
The crowd cheered, Jim had been handling well on his own. Vendel had been impressed, he knew the boy would do a decent job for his first time. This had been quite unexpected but he knew what Jim had been capable of, one of the many reasons he had chosen him to spare in Pryoblixtz.
Not like he'd tell him that, unless needed too.
Jim dived after the ball, getting a hold on it right as the other opponent swiped at him, not even grazing the boy. With a flip, Jim landed flawlessly, running and leaping from each platform, his eyes on the goal that was nearly a jump away. Yet, his eyes landed on a nerve racking sight, he had been cornered by two rolling Krubera and with nowhere to run, the boy shrunk into himself, the shield hiding his body.
"Great, he's cornered!" Everyone looked as if they were about to stand straight from their chairs, all nervously biting their lips or twiddling with their fingers.
A large and angry roar was heard, Aaarrrgghh landing behind his human friend, catching his kind by the head and slamming them into the stone floor. The crowd cheered at the save as Jim poked his head up, looking at what had happened. His eyes quickly darted to his savior and he smiled.
The theater cried loudly, even louder than the trolls on the screen, happy to see that Aaarrrgghh had made it and just in time so Jim hadn't gotten crushed.
"Aaarrrgghh!" The said troll smiled as Jim stood, "Ah, it's good to see you." The crowd's happiness grew, the sounds echoing around them. Down below, Blinky had helped Draal to a stand, the Troll finally snapping out of it. Claire and Blinky cheered as well while Toby had caught his breath, stopping beside his friends.
"Yeah!" Claire cheered, leaning on Toby who smiled as well.
Jim smiled at Claire, he could barely contain his emotion on how adorable she had just looked. He wanted to tell her so bad but he knew it couldn't be the right time. He could feel it.
"What fortunate timing Tobias, the Blixtz is nearly over." Blinky said as Toby stood up straight.
"I have no idea what's happening, is that a good thing?" The stout boy asked, turning to Claire.
"If they score, yes. If the other team scores, no." She replied watching her future boyfriend and Aaarrrgghh fight to the goal. The Trollhunter had been jumping and dodging throughout the field, a tight hold on the ball until a Krubera managed to push himself off the wall, aiming directly at Jim who had no time to leap on such a narrow area.
The details of the armor glowed blue, the light growing brighter when the troll had shoved Jim from the platform, the said boy screaming as he threw the ball in Aaarrrgghh's direction before crashing and falling from the platforms, finally hitting the ground with a groan.
People winced, Barbara looking as if she was going to tackle the Krubera trolls herself. Jim just shook it off, he had made it that far. Aaarrrgghh was strong and he knew the troll could do it.
His armor had disappeared as his friends gasped at the sight. However, Aaarrrgghh was keeping his eye on the ball, nearly missing it due to his injured arm but getting a grip on it. He took off, not waiting for his opponents to arrive.
"It's all you, Aaarrrgghh!" Jim cried to him, still haven't moved from his position. The former Krubera roared, the other trolls chasing him relentlessly. Aaarrrgghh had finally made it to the goal, ready to win for his team until the other Krubera had dogpiled him.
Angered, Aaarrrgghh's eyes were filled with nothing but green and black, the chanting growing louder and their feet stomping faster. The scene slowed down, Aaarrrgghh roaring fiercely as he turned in the direction of the mouth, the trolls still piled on top of him.
No one moved, everyone silent and unsure how to react.
The camera panned as Aaarrrgghh made the score, the Scoothscryer shooting out red and blue smoke, fireworks pouring from the top and lighting up the Hero's Forge. The gnomes chatted happily, the red gnome, however, was fuming.
Everyone leaped from their seats, excitedly running to Aaarrrgghh who willingly took the hugs, feeling more comfortable about the whole situation. They fought for him.
The scorekeeper reached for the blue gnome but it scurried under his hand and impaled the shield itself, too excited. The platform lowered, the arena settling as Aaarrrgghh stood in the middle, doing a celebration pose while the other two walked off in defeat, clearly not happy.
"Take that Krubera!" Someone yelled out, clapping. The crowd could not calm, even Strickler had been clapping. After all, he knew what he was going to do next, it was obvious. He wasn't ready for the crowd to react either.
"Aaarrrgghh!" Jim cried happily, running to hug his friend who eagerly gripped onto the boy, "you did it!"
"We did it," Aaarrrgghh fixed, using his injured hand to gesture towards Jim, the boy instantly catching the discoloration.
"Aaarrrgghh, your hand." Before Jim could get any further, his friends laughed in victory running up to the pair, Claire telling them how it was a rush before their words slurred together. Jim smiled as Claire pulled him into a hug, Blinky and Toby joining in on the hug as well.
"Well done you two!" Blinky said happily.
"Trollmarket is victorious!" Queen Usurna said happily, stepping down to the Trollhunting team with Vendel. The crowd celebrated, however, the Kruberas did not. "Blixtz for the ages."
"The time has arrived that we bid our ends farewell, but first," Vendel said looking at Usurna, "one last order of business." The team turned their attention on the two elders, silent.
Everyone went quiet, all sitting back in their seats, this was the time. Aaarrrgghh dreaded the fact that this was really about to happen. He had to witness it and then live it which would make it even harder. However, after what had happened, he knew what he wanted so he hoped he made the right choice in the show.
"Aarghaumont," the troll groaned in response, knowing what was coming. "Brother, we know you are not well but battled on honorably. Will you return with us, your family, or fight your last days here amongst your friends?" Toby tensed at her words and the four turned to face the large troll.
"What does she mean his last days?" Toby repeated, no one replying as Aaarrrgghh hung his head.
"Oh no, I'm already about to cry."
"The choice is yours," Queen Usurna said as Aaarrrgghh finally looked his friends in the eye.
"Your wound," Blinky said, eyes full of pain, "creeper sun poison." Blinky said, cradling it but Aaarrrgghh let out a small grunt of pain, pulling away. "Oh, Aaarrrgghh. Why did you not tell us?"
"Didn't want worry."
Claire gently placed his hands on Aaarrrgghh, "Angor Rot must have cut him." Jim stepped up, also placing his hands on the wounded and dead limb. Jim sighed, his heart breaking.
"This is my fault, it should have been me that got hurt." He said desperately, hating the sight of Aaarrrgghh dying because he protected Jim. Jim was supposed to protect him. Claire wiped a stray tear as Aaarrrgghh turned to the Trollhunter.
"Not Jim's fault. Don't want to leave," Aaarrrgghh instantly turned to his partner in crime who was sniffling uncontrollably. Not able to look, Toby turned away from him and Blinky had pulled Aaarrrgghh's attention back to him.
No one spoke, only tears began to weld up in their eyes, threatening to fall. Aaarrrgghh had sat, turning from the screen but keeping a close listen on it. He couldn't see anyone break because of this, because of him.
"The only way you'll be able to survive is with your own kind. You must return with them," Blinky said, holding back the tears that were ready to fall.
"We can always visit," Jim said but Blinky sadly turned to him.
"I'm afraid Master Jim, only the Krubera can thrive in the deep caves."
"Oh," Jim's face dropped at that, all hope lost and crumbling beneath him. "Well, if it means you'll live." Claire moved closer to Jim, grabbing his hand as the two looked at one another.
"I would comment on the wonderful Jliare moment, but I can barely see and my eyes are burning."
"Aaarrrgghh, what sort of a friend would I be if I demanded you stay." The camera panned out to Toby who still hadn't faced the group, Aaarrrgghh looking at him before speaking.
"I-will go." The brute said, his wingman gasping at the news before sobbing silently. Beside the group, Usurna and Vendel watched with, their hearts aching at the scene - if Queen Usurna had one. Aaarrrgghh turned to his friends, patting them gently.
No one held in their tears, finally letting them fall, the warm feeling running down everyone's cheeks, sobbing. The Trollhunting team was silent, Blinky seemed to be staring out into space while Jim had done his best to comfort Toby, the poor boy who was rubbing his eyes with so much force.
"Goodbye." He smiled sadly as the three looked like they would shatter under Aaarrrgghh's touch. JIm sighing as he hugged Aaarrrgghh's hand that still rested on his shoulder.
"The times of laughs," Blinky started.
"For once, speechless." Claire had finished, "and here we just got to know each other." Claire leaned over, hugging Aaarrrgghh as best as she could, the troll looking shocked but also sad at the sight. "I'll miss you big guy."
Aaarrrgghh hummed, hugging her back as Draal stepped up, patting the troll on the back.
"Goodbye, old friend. I shall protect them in your stead." They all turned to Toby who still hadn't looked but let out a loud breath. Aaarrrgghh tried to wear a smile, in hopes that his close friends would look at him.
"WHY IS THIS SCENE SO LONG! I CAN'T HANDLE THE PAIN!"
He held out his fist, "Wingman," Toby looked at the fist then to Aaarrrgghh but could barely hold his gaze. He reached out shakily but something had stopped the crying boy. He whimpered, his tears falling faster before he ran, Aaarrrgghh breaking at the sight. Toby didn't look back as he ran to the exit which hurt the troll even more.
Aaarrrgghh looked at Jim and Toby, the two boys giving side hugs as the scene played out. He hated this and it felt like he was being tortured but also torturing his friends. This scene needed to be over. Clearly his future self didn't have the same plans he had right now.
He sighed sadly before turning to Jim and leaning close to the boy. "Get Gunmar, for me." Jim smiled sadly and placed his hand on Aaarrrgghh's hand which gently gripped his shoulder.
"Be well, big guy." Jim said, moving back as Aaarrrgghh stood straight, stepping off to his Queen. Not hesitating, Claire stepped beside Jim, standing where Aaarrrgghh had been a second ago. Her gentle touch caught Jim's attention, before they watched as the Krubera waited for Aaarrrgghh.
"I just want to hurt Queen Usurna right now," a kid said, wiping furiously at their eyes.
The brute troll looked one last time at his friends, "tell Wingman, he family, I family." With that Aaarrrgghh followed his kind out of the Forge, the four remaining teammates watched with remorse. As the camera panned out, it showed the cleared out forge, the team standing in defeat in the empty room.
If they could cry anymore, they would. It stung to hear that, even if they weren't close to Aaarrrgghh as Jim, Claire, Toby, and Blinky were.
Toby had made it to his house, hiding beneath a blanket while the screen of the T.V. had been lit with Go, Go Sushi. Aaarrrgghh and Toby's favorite game. Toby barely put any effort into moving the joystick and it only had taken a second before he sighed and dropped the controller to the ground, looking at the vacant one beside him.
He whimpered, lowering his head as he stopped playing. Downstairs, Nana had called for him, "Toby Pie! Dinner!"
"But they just had pie!?"
"I'm never eating again!" Toby cried out, moving the blanket over his head and no longer in view.
"But you're being so rude to our exchange student," She said gently, a similar laugh echoing from the kitchen and instantly catching Toby's ears, his face finally covered in a smile as he turned in the direction of the door and the camera.
"Arthurson?!" The camera changed to frantic footsteps and the door slamming open, Toby running past in a flash as he leaped into his Wingman's arms. "Aaarrrgghh!" The troll grunted at the impact before they turned to face Nana who was incredibly confused. "Arthur…" Toby fixed.
"EXCUSE ME!? YOU ARE NOT ALLOWED TO PLAY WITH MY FEELINGS LIKE THIS! I'M SUING!" The student stomped off, furiously wiping their tears.
"Isn't it weird to think, we were picking on Jim and Toby like a few days ago, now we're all attached to them and trolls. Now, all of us are having meltdowns except for the bad guys."
"This isn't the time, my mind is not in the right shape and I am upset."
"I was crying too much, I- I just, poor Toby."
"Oh! I'll get the pie," Nana said, leaving the kitchen for the two to have their moment.
"You came back! B-b-but what about your family, your home?"
"Am home, Krubera not family." He placed a hand on Toby's head, "you are." Toby gently swatted off his hand and gripped his fur.
"I think I'm going to start crying again."
"You'll turn to stone, you'll get sick if you stay."
"Not today, today help fight Gunmar, play Go, Go Sushi. This my choice."
"You old stubborn brute!" Toby said before hugging his arm, "how can I stay mad at you, come on. But after we're done with Gunmar, I'm taking you home to get better in the Krubera caves myself. Capeech?"
"Boom, boom," the two said, doing their signature fist bump. Outside from the happy moment, Jim had stepped out, trash bag in hand wearing a small smile. As he was about to open the trash can lid, he looked up at Toby's bedroom window, his two friends telling stories and laughing.
Happy, Jim let out his own chuckle before his attention flew to the bush that rustled and shook. He gasped, leaping back and pulling out his amulet.
"Alright. Who's ruining the moment?!"
"Right, first we were so happy, then we cry, then we cry again but this time, we're happy. NOW SOMETHING IS ABOUT TO GO AFTER JIM AND I AM NOT HAVING THIS! SCREW THIS SHOW WHICH IS TECHNICALLY OUR LIVES!"
"For the Glory of Merlin, Daylight is-" The camera panned to show Strickler stepping out from the darkness.
"Please, Trollhunter, you're my only hope, if you want to save your mother's life, you have to protect me!" Strickler said, gripping Jim's arm and dropping to his knees. Jim's eyes moved from Strickler's grip on his arm to look in the man's eyes, his face filled with shock and worry.
"You better get your hands off of Jim before I turn you into Angor my damn self!"
"Is he begging on his knees right now?!"
The episode finished with a dramatic end.
The whole theater was silent before Barbara stood, sucking in a breath. "NOW ISN'T THIS SOME BULLSHI-"