Author's Note:
Very good explanation on why we didn't update for a little bit. The beginning of October and all the way to Thanksgiving was slammed with daily life, we barely had free time to actually get this chapter done and it was exhausting.
Thank you all for being patient throughout this time, sorry for the inconvenience and please enjoy the chapter. Hopefully Season 2 will be easier to update for us but we cannot make any promises.
Life got in the way.
Side Notes:
We might multi-task and try to complete more before we publish so heads up! As always, please enjoy!
A Night to Remember
"We need help!" Jim's frantic voice called from the pitch black screen, the horn of the car still constant. "Please!" As the darkness began to dim, Jim was trying to keep his mother on her feet, holding her close to him before the screen had gone black again.
When the image reappeared, it was nothing but the cracks in the stone floor, troll feet lurking in the corners of the view, Barbara's panting and the murmurs of the confused trolls was all that was heard.
Jim seemed to be struggling to keep his mother's heavy weight up while she weakly lifted her head, only to be greeted by blurry images of Trolls.
Everyone cooed at Jim's sorrow expression, he was trying so hard to make sure his mother came first and it hurt the crowd to know that this was something he has to deal with in the first place.
"Humans in Trollmarket!"
"What's going on?!" The cries of the trolls were nothing but echoes.
"What are they doing here?"
"I don't trust them," a purple troll spat.
"They don't belong here." As the trolls harped on the injured humans, Barbara was growing weaker, the wound on her neck growing harsh. She blinked up to the staircase, only seeing blends of colors.
"Where are we?" Barbara asked weakly.
"Just hold on, mom, you're somewhere safe."
"As all the trolls are scolding them for being in Trollmarket."
"Shut up, I need to see how this all plays out, Barbara is hurt!"
"I can't, it's hard to breathe," Barbara mumbled, Jim instantly catching on to what she had said as his head whipped to the side, eyes wide and heart pumping rapidly.
"We need Vendel! Where's Vendel!?" Jim cried as Barbara's knees gave out, the two dropping to the floor as the rest of the team had finally appeared, Claire's voice shrill at the sight.
"Jim!" She cried, kneeling down to his level and placing a hand on his knee.
"Great Gronkamora! What happened?" Blinky asked.
"Angor attacked Strickler, the binding spell," Jim breathed out. Speaking of Strickler, the man let out a cough as he pulled himself from the car, holding his neck. The trolls did not appreciate the sight of him, as they all crowded him, spewing out threats.
"Changeling!"
"Let's crush him," a much larger troll stated, raising his fist, only for Aaarrrgghh to bound over, his fist raised as well but not at Strickler.
"No," Aaarrrgghh groaned out right before Vendel was heard.
"Stop! Not unless you want to kill his mother too," Vendel inputted, the crowd freezing as the Elder tapped his staff on the ground, "quickly, bring them both to the examination dwell." Aaarrrgghh groaned, tightly gripping Strickler and lifting him into the air.
"Awww, Aaarrrgghh we can't even be mad at you for making that mistake." A student added, shaking off the fact that Aaarrrgghh had squeezed the man too hard and injuring Barbara in the process.
However, Aaarrrgghh had grown shocked when he heard Barbara cry in pain, realizing what was the cause of it. Blinky bent down, scooping Barbara away from Jim, but that didn't stop the boy. He was quick to stand beside Blinky, not missing a step as his mother curled in Blinky's hold.
"You're going to be okay, Barbara," Blinky stated calmly as she lifted her head, the blurriness only revealing the outline of Blinky to the weakened mother.
"Mr…. B-Blinky?" She asked before dropping in exhaustion.
"Quickly, this way," Vendel guided as Toby stepped up beside Claire, handing her the Horngozel so she could slide it into her bag.
"I closed the gate before Angor Rot got in."
"Vendel's going to be able to fix this, right Blink?" Claire wondered, turning to the said troll who kept a gentle but secure grip on Barbara.
"Only the fates can tell now. Barbara's only hope is to break the spell that intwindes her fate with Strickler's. If Vendel can, maybe, just maybe she'll be strong enough to survive on her own." Blinky stated as Jim kept his eyes locked on his mother's limp form, keeping the same rapid pace as Blinky had.
"Just maybe?" Jim repeated, hating the sound of that. He knew he could trust them but he hated hearing that it was a hit or miss on his mother's survival, especially when her safety was at risk because of him.
"Bring the Changeling," Vendel ordered, grabbing Barbara from Blinky, "I must treat him as well." No one said anything as Strickler followed in, Barbara moaning in pain while her son watched with an anguished expression.
Jim sighed, his armor fading as he followed them in, head down low.
The scene had changed, the team were waiting outside, each silent with sadness while Jim paced, the time passing as he still continued his movements. After more prolonged hours, Jim had sat down, only to be seen standing once again right before Vendel stepped out.
Barbara wanted to hug her son so badly on-screen, mumbling that everything would be okay and that no matter what she would be proud of him and tell him that nothing was his fault. She could see it in his face and her heart shattered.
Even if something did happen to her because of Trollhunting, her son will always be under her watch, even if she wasn't physically there.
"Vendel!" Jim cried, the Trollhunters quickly turning in the Elder's direction as Jim's voice cracked and wavered, "h-how's my mom?"
"She is resting for now," Vendel added, Strickler stepping out beside the troll, arm in a sling once again. "But we must move her to the Heartstone."
"Blinky says that we need to break the binding spell," Jim added in, his mentor standing beside the boy.
"I agree with his assessment. She cannot properly heal while still bound to the Changeling. Unfortunately, this is Gumm-Gumm magic and alast I don't know the proper incantation." Vendel said, eyes showing every emotion the Elder troll had been feeling.
"No," Jim started bitterly, pointing to Strickler with a glare, "but he does."
At that, Aaarrrgghh had leaned down to Strickler, growling, striking fear in the injured Changeling. Toby had come from the other side, a fierce glare on his face and he balled his fists.
"Well are you waiting for an invitation or do I have to beat it out of you!" The pudgy boy threatened, Strickler's voice quivering.
Everyone leaned back in shock, not used to seeing this kind of Toby who had threatened an older man. This was fantastic.
"I don't have it," the man started, only angering Aaarrrgghh who growled with rage, barely inches away from Strickler's face. The said man held a hand up, stopping the troll as he cowarded away. "With me. It's in the book of Gotheal, in my office." He finished.
"We have to go get it," Jim stated, turning to Claire.
"We'll have to be careful," Toby added in, stepping up to them. "That crazy psychopath will be there."
Jim let out a groan, "I forgot about Angor Rot."
"No, Coach Lawrence, it's the Spring Fling dance and he's going to be roaming the halls." Toby fixed, earning a gasp from Claire and a defeated look from Jim.
Coach Lawrence was about to defend himself before shrugging, the name was a little better, he at least had authority but he was not a psychopath, he was actually a big softie after work. Not like he would tell anyone that.
"The Spring Fling. It's tonight, I forgot." He said, face dropping in sadness right before Claire's hand appeared on his shoulder.
"You're mom's life is more important than a stupid dance," Claire said.
"I know, but I was looking forward to our stupid dance," Claire's hand found it back on Jim's shoulder, the boy giving off his famous adorable smile.
"MY HEART!" Someone cried, holding their chest as Jim and Claire smiled at one another, he was excited for the dance, it had made his heart race every time he thought of it but now that the night was upon them in the future, it seemed that night had different intentions. Hopefully, he got that said, stupid dance.
"Me too. Toby and I will get the incantation. You need to be here for your mom."
Vendel's hoarse voice cut into their sweet moment, "you must go now. Make haste."
"We got this," Claire said confidently, pulling out her staff as Jim backed away at a safe distance. "Let's go Toby," she swung her staff to the side, opening a portal, letting Toby leap through first who hadn't hesitated. Claire follows in after, "come on."
Jim watched as they disappeared from sight, leaving them with Strickler in Trollmarket. Speaking of the devil, the said man had let out a groan, his hand moving to support his weak body against the stone.
Aaarrrgghh let out a deep groan, turning to Vendel, "what about the Changeling?"
"Take him to the stronghold," Vendel commanded, pointing off to the side. From them standing in front of the Medbay, the scene changed to Strickler falling onto his knees with a grunt, the cage door slamming behind him before his trap had ascended into the air.
"Haven't I redeemed myself?" Strickler pleaded, looking down at Blinky who was none too happy.
"The humans have a saying I would describe as accurate. NOT EVEN CLOSE!" His voice echoed as the camera panned out, showing the suspended cages all around.
Everyone smiled, appluading Blinky, some even going after Strickler for sounding so defenseless compared to his usual act. Strickler sighed, he thought it would have fixed something but he had been wrong.
Above Trollmarket, the school had been lit up, beams of light shooting into the night sky as the gym had flashed numerous colors, loud bumping music was heard as chatter mingled with the noise.
Students ran to the entrance of the school while the camera had panned inside, showing two students talking in the dark hallways. Behind them, in a dark, empty classroom, the black abyss of a portal had opened, Claire leaping skillfully from its hold.
"Made it," she mumbled, "keep quiet, Angor Rot still out-" before she could give the warning, Toby had tumbled out with a loud yelp, landing harshly on the floor. Claire winced before shushing the boy who landed upside down and pressed against the desk in an uncomfortable manner.
Claire leaned to look at Toby who was blushing madly at the stares he received, he never said he was good at stealth. Jim just chuckled, thinking that was funny even though the night itself was fragile. One mess up and things could go wrong in so many ways.
"Toby!" She hissed quietly.
"Sorry," he kicked his legs, rolling over and standing. "Didn't stick the landing. Come on, Doctor L doesn't have much time." He added, sneaking to the door, Claire following and keeping her bag close.
Behind them in the large set of windows, a figure had stalked up, revealing the wicked grin from Angor as he watched them sneak out of the classroom. The two were unaware of the gaze upon them, peaking their heads out from the crack of the door.
"I am hating every appearance Angor Rot has ever made, every time they are creepy and I want to go hide under a bed and cry."
"I swear, each time he grows more crazy and I am not comfortable with this."
However, Claire had caught sight of a flashlight, shining right on them. With a quiet gasp, she pulled herself and Toby out of sight, closing the door. The flashlight, instead, went past the door and to the couple by the lockers, revealing Mary with a blonde boy.
"Alright," Coach started as the students shielded their eyes from the harsh light. "Back to the dance, you two." The two kept their faces hidden, almost as if they were taking the walk of shame. Coach watched them scurry off back to the party, never noticing Claire and Toby who had stilled themselves.
Angor watched with his eye narrowed, sly smirk, and evil cackle. He stepped back, dipping into the shadows. Toby, with a stern look made hand gestures, Claire instantly catching on as she gave a small smile and a simple nod.
Slowly peeling open the door, Toby and Claire had looked at Coach who's back was turned, the flashlight pointing away from them and it seemed that the Coach had been distracted by picking at his teeth.
The two barely made it far when Toby' stomach began to gurgle, freezing them in their tracks. Toby held his stomach as Claire turned to face him. The stout boy gasped as he was right behind Coach Lawrence, yelping when the man moved rather quickly, pointing the flashlight in their direction, only catching sight of Toby's fleeting form.
"Come back here, you Hooligans!" He cried out as Toby panted nervously, the two running down the hall while Coach had been on their tails. "Ah, come on! I see you!"
"Can we talk about how funny their running was…. No, just me? Okay."
"Quick, get us into Strickler's office!" Toby said desperately. Giving Claire the idea, she eyed her staff as Coach continued to yell at them, telling them to come back. The staff grew to its full size as they turned the corner and ran off the screen, yet, the sound of a portal opening was heard.
Coach wasn't far behind, turning the corner as well, stuttering as he came to nothing but an empty hallway. "That's weird." He said to no one.
In Strickler's office, the portal had opened, Claire and Toby quietly stepping out and heading right towards the desk.
"That was close, let's make it quick. I'm not a fan of this room," Toby mumbled, the two tiptoeing in different directions. Claire had made it to a bookshelf, eyebrows furrowed as her hand dragged across the spines of the books.
"Man, Strickler's got a lot of creepy books in here." Claire stated, pausing when her eyes landed on one certain book that had been standing. She pulled it from it's spot and read the cover. "Medieval torture, cryptography and secret codes," she opened the book, flipping to a random page and scanning it.
Strickler looked at the eyes that instantly landed on him, wow, these kids have a staring issue.
"You have a torture book?! You sick little freak." Strickler just shrugged, he once had read it but never acted upon anything. He never had a hostage anyways.
Jim just shook his head, knowing that he once trusted this man with his life and here he was, sauntering around with a torture book and they never knew. He shivered at the thought of Claire even picking that book off the shelf.
Toby appeared from behind the desk, laying a book upon the table, "hey, I think I found it!" He whispered excitedly.
"Seriously?" Claire said, running to his side as he flicked on the lamp.
"Here, you speak Troll. Have a look."
"Okay, okay, let's hurry." Claire added. As she spoke, an outline of a figure appeared behind the closed door, their hand reaching for the knob as the two teens buried themselves in the book, searching for the right page.
They hadn't noticed the figure stalk up to them until the click of the flashlight was heard and Toby had looked up. He let out a yelp and clung to Claire, the figure only to be revealed as Coach Lawrence.
"DON'T WORRY, I DON'T WANT TO TRUST THIS ANYMORE ANYWAYS! THIS SHOW SUCKS AND I'M DONE NEARLY HAVING AN ACCIDENT!"
"What's going on in here?" Realization dawned on him, "oh, I know what this is. You two lovebirds sneakin' around playing Romper Room unsupervised!"
"Us?!" Claire asked in disbelief, looking down at Toby who tried to play along.
"Yeah!" However, Toby was quickly shut down when Claire had gently shoved him away, not hesitating to disagree.
"No way!"
"Don't worry Jimbo, I wouldn't steal your girl," Toby said with a smile, poor Jim blushing madly while trying to deny that they weren't official yet.
"You two are hopeless," Mary said, rolling her eyes before paying attention to the screen.
"No," Toby fixed, clearing his throat. The coach's eyes landed on the staff which still was tucked between Claire's fingers.
"What is that? Give me!" He didn't give them a chance, ripping it from the girl's hand and stomping off.
"No, no!" Claire cried out, her and Toby's pleads pouring together.
"Coach, it isn't what you think it is." Toby added as the grown man sniffed the object, pointing the flashlight on Claire's staff.
"Yeah, he thinks it's a magical staff that opens portals when powered by emotion." Someone said sarcastically, pointing a finger.
Claire shook her head, smiling at Toby, his random bursts were annoying and could easily reveal a secret but now that she could have their guard down, she found them more amusing if anything.
"What is this thing?" He mumbled to no one in particular, Claire ripping a page from the book of Gotheal as he had his back turned. "Is it legal!?" Toby let out a nervous sound as the coach began to turn around, the two quickly straightening their postures and smiling as if they hadn't done anything.
"Alright, that's it. You two with me!" He scolded, turning off the flashlight as the two worried teens stalked around the desk, following after him.
"Great, now what?" Toby asked quietly as they disappeared from view.
Within Trollmarket, inside the Heartstone, Jim and Blinky had stepped into view, standing in the bright, orange crystallized room, his mother laying a distance away from them. JIm's voice echoed, pain etched into every word as if he blamed himself.
"Kanjigar warned me about this. Trollhunters shouldn't have personal connections."
People deflated at that, one student even scolding him, "don't listen to Kanjigar, he thinks he knows what he is talking about but everyone does it differently. Just because they didn't match his expectations, doesn't mean you can't do it. Think about this, he died at the hands of Bular, well, due to the sun, but you managed to slay Bular, you are fighting against Angor Rot who had stolen the souls of Trollhunters who are in that council. They know nothing."
Jim smiled, agreeing in his head. He did blame himself for his mother being in danger due to his actions but at the same time, he did it his way and managed to stay alive for this long. He didn't want to see anyone else hurt but he was glad he had supportive people in his life.
"Yes, and forgive me for disagreeing," Blinky started, catching the boy's attention as he stepped in front of him. "Kanjigar was wrong. If there's one thing I learned in my time as a member of your species, Master Jim is that the human bond, your love for each other is your greatest strength. No matter what magic Vendel is able to work, make no mistake it will ultimately be the love you share with her that will see her through."
Jim let out a sigh, holding his forearm, "you're just saying that to make me feel better." Jim kept his eyes trained on his mother while Blinky responded.
"Of course I am, but I'm also saying it because it's true." He placed a hand on the boy's shoulder, Jim still wearing a downed expression. "Now go, your mother needs you." Jim looked to the floor and then towards his mother once more before he was found at her bedside, fixing her pillow as she spoke.
"So, you and your friends said you were going camping…"
"We were getting a Triumbic stone from a place called Gatto's Keep." Jim answered.
"Right. And when Steve crashed his Vespa?"
"Um.. Vulture Troll," he said with a small smile, hoping not to worry her more, especially in her condition.
Barbara shook her head, of course, he lied about it. He would never go into full detail about that day if she ever asked.
"And your guidance counselor?"
"Blinky," Jim sighed, "he does give me a lot of guidance." Barbara sighed as well, turning away and looking at the wall.
Blinky smiled proudly, turning to Vendel. "See, I am quite a troll."
"You're something alright," Vendel said, his eyes trained on the screen.
"I just can't- it's just- it's too much. Y-you really shouldn't be putting yourself in danger like this. I'm your mother, I protect you. That's the deal."
"I'm fine, mom. You don't- you don't need to protect me, I think this is what I was meant to do." Jim stated, pulling out his amulet and letting it do the work for him. Blue poured from the ancient device, covering Jim head to toe in his armor.
"Yes, this is what you are meant to do. I'm glad you figured it out!" Someone said, clapping. Jim smiled, gently sucking in a breath. His mother meant so much to him and he could never stop protecting her despite her pleas.
She was handling a lot better than he thought once she did get a little more use to the fact that Trolls and the situation they were in, were real.
"Whoa…" Barbara said breathlessly. Jim closed his eyes, his shoulders dropping as regret washed over him.
"I should have told you sooner. Maybe none of this would have ever happened." Barbara sniffled, her hand reaching up to cover the glowing amulet.
"Honey, you're supposed to be able to tell me anything." She managed out, voice shaking. Jim covered her hand with his own, the armor and the amulet fading from view.
"I never should have lied to you." He looked down, heartbroken as the door had opened behind them, Vendel's voice echoing towards them.
"Jim," the boy turned at his name, Vendel stepping in. "A word?" Jim placed a gentle kiss on his mother's forehead before joining Vendel, away from earshot.
"Is everything okay? Did Claire and Toby get the book?"
"They have not returned yet, but I'm afraid we have a new problem." The elder spoke. From the bright lights of the Heartstone and Vendel's relaxed face, the scene was quick to change. A dark room replaced the lighted scene, Strickler sitting upon his knees while two vast trolls had stood guard.
Jim stomped in, armor intact and sword resting on his back, his voice dripping venom. "What do you mean you won't undo the binding spell?!" He asked, pulling his sword out and pointing it dangerously close to Strickler. "I thought you cared about my mother!?"
"WHAT!? YOU LITTLE-!"
"I do," Strickler added, staring at the tip of the sword. "Much to my surprise and quite deeply. In fact, I might even-" Anger washed over Jim as he held up a finger, glaring down at the Changeling.
"NOPE! NO!" Jim cried out, throwing out his hands, "no, I do not want to hear that."
"Do not finish that sentence! If you really cared about my mother, you would undo the binding spell!" Jim stalked around him.
"And then what? You see my predicament, Young Atlas. I have my own interest to consider here."
"Wow, glad you're willing to put me first," Barbara hissed, crossing her arms and rolling her eyes. Strickler knew not to fight back or it wouldn't end well. He needed to make sure that he did win her back, hopefully the future held good terms for the two.
"What interests?"
"The spell has been the only thing keeping you from harming me, for one." Jim stood straight, finally sliding his sword back behind him.
"Wait, is he scared of Jim! PFFFFT! That is the best thing I have ever heard!"
"I won't harm you, I promise." That had earned weird and judgmental looks from the trolls.
"And what of your troll friends. They have no love for me." Strickler stood, "as my presence confinement demonstrates. What's to stop you from throwing me to the wolves the second my connection to your mother is severed?"
"So, let me get this straight, you refuse to undo the binding spell because you are afraid of being hurt? But if you do care for Barbara, you would do it for her safety above her own, in fact, you wouldn't have even done this!"
"My reasoning will not make sense, for I understand what I did and what I soon regret." Strickler added, turning to face Barbara who had not even paid attention that he was even in the same room.
"It's called honor, I don't expect you to understand it."
"OOOOOOOH DANG! JIM WITH THE BIG GUNS!" A student cried out as Strickler looked away from the screen, Jim did have a point and he hated admitting to it.
"Touche. But you can understand my reluctance."
"Once my mother's okay, you can leave. No strings attached. I won't let anybody hurt you. I give you my word." Strickler said nothing in response, simply holding out his uninjured arm. Jim narrowed his eyes at the limb, seeming to hesitate but reached out anyway.
As soon as Jim's metal fingers brushed against Strickler, the man groaned in pain, dropping back onto his knees and holding his damaged arm.
"Anyone else confused on what just happened? Jim barely grazed his uninjured arm, like was it the metal or….." Everyone nodded, agreeing. What did happen? Why was Strickler so injured by a handshake he had offered?
Jim watched as he pulled off his amulet and helped the man back to a stand. Strickler winced, balancing himself.
"You've given me much to consider, Young Atlas." They stared at one another, letting the scene change once again. Outside the school, the lights continued to light up Arcadia, the music thudding against the walls as Coach and Miss. Janeth stood away from it, inspecting the device Claire had been caught with.
Speaking of which, Claire and Toby had been watching a few feet behind them, awkward as the two teachers discussed among themselves.
"What is this thing? Is it legal?" Coach asked again as Miss. Janeth seemed to be panicking.
"Oh my, what on earth is that." Behind them, Claire and Toby were murmuring right before Coach had pointed an accusing finger in their direction, startling the two.
"Don't move knuckleheads, until we figure out… uh, what you're in trouble for."
"We got to get the spell back to Jim's mom," Claire started. "Any ideas?"
Toby shrugged, groaning as well, "fine, I have an ace in the hole I was saving for swim class but.." Toby wore a sideways smile as he stepped up closer to the teacher and sucking in a deep breath. He stretched out his limbs, sticking his tongue and shaking violently before falling to the ground and rolling and flopping. Claire watched silently, covering her mouth.
Jim looked at the screen in wonder, trying to figure out what had just happened in that mere second, he was going to try and apologize for making Claire and Toby battle Angor without him, even though they handled it extremely well, but when he had seen Toby, his mind had shut down.
"Mr. Domzowski. What in Heavens is wrong with you?" Miss. Janeth asked, Toby still shaking on the floor, groaning constantly.
"He's going into… anamorphic shock! He's having an attack. That's his… uh.. Medical thingy." Claire tried, the teacher's attention drifting to the Shadow Staff. "Inhaler. He needs it."
"Oh, wow," Coach gasped. "The kid's clearly faking."
"He looks to be in distress," Miss. Janeth added in, Toby screaming in the background as he gripped the collar of his shirt.
"I am, I am! A lot of it. A lot of distress." Toby said, crossing his eyes and once again sticking out his tongue, nearly dry heaving. He froze, going limp for a second before his body convulsed again.
The kids laughed, finding amusement in his plan. Claire facepalmed, she should have seen that coming, it was Toby for Heaven's Sake!"
"Back up everyone! I know CPR!" Miss. Janeth said with sternness in her voice. Toby instantly caught on as he heard her footsteps cut closer. His tongue quickly slid back in his mouth and he tried to plead.
"Wait. What?!" Toby squeaked, everyone's laughter had died down from his pity excuse and acting, registering what she had said.
"No, no, no, no. No, no." He cried as the teacher plugged his nose and opened his mouth wide. Toby couldn't help but watch as she closed the distance between them, her mouth opened wide as she sucked in a large breath.
Toby gagged, leaning over and holding his stomach as the rest of the class had their jaws to the floor. Miss. Janeth, however, seemed to be nodding in satisfaction, she finally had her chance. Jim covered his mouth, his other hand frozen as it pointed at the screen.
The class couldn't speak, their eyes wide and bodies freezing as they watched poor Toby get attacked by the teacher's lips. Toby shivered, nearly fainting in his seat then and there, yet, the thought of her attempting now would be horrendous then just watching this.
"Tobes… I-"
"Don't say it, please Jimbo. I am going to have nightmares…"
Toby struggled beneath her, gagging as she continued to breathe into his mouth. Coach groaned, turning to look away at the disturbing sight.
"Remind me never to choke…"
"What are you waiting for?!" Claire asked, the Coach suddenly giving in.
"Okay, take it. Take it! Take-take your medical thing, whatever. Whatever it is." Coach cried, shielding his eyes from the frightening sight and dropping the staff.
"You're going to be just fine, Toby" Miss. Janeth said, pulling away to reveal a gaping Toby. His eyes were wide, his mouth had fallen open and his whole body had frozen. She stood up, wiping her lip and feeling successful, "I've always wanted to do CPR."
"Um, should I be scared right now for Toby's sake or admit that I'm not surprised because CPR is another form of kissing, and no offense Miss. Janeth, but you probably never had your first-'
"Stop, please don't."
"WE JUST WITNESSED THIS ON POOR TOBY!? IT'S A SERIOUS QUESTION!"
Claire stepped up to Toby who groaned at the reminder, still lying flat on his back. She helped the boy to a stand.
"I should probably take him to get some air." Claire added, pushing Toby away from the scene, the pudgy boy still not completely working.
"Kids today," Coach said, the two teachers watching them flee in confusion.
From the horrifying scene of Miss. Janeth giving air to an unwilling Toby, it had changed to Barbara as she laid on the slab of rock, grunting in pain while her son stood behind her, eyes closed in regret.
He had kept a firm grip on her hand, silently praying for her to come out of this okay. Jim turned to look at his mother who never once opened her eyes but his head shot in the direction of the entrance, Vendel and Strickler stepping up with solem expressions.
Barbara let out a soft moan in discomfort and Strickler had finally reached her bedside, supporting her other hand in his.
Barbara clenched her fists, now all of a sudden he cared for her wellbeing?! After putting her and her son through all of this just so he was protected from Jim, he wanted to be sorry after his actions had consequences.
She shook her head, not liking the sight of him holding her hand and feeling sorry when it had taken persuasion at first, and he was the one to cause this whole mess because a teenage boy was growing stronger than he was. It made her sick and despite the redemption in the show, she still couldn't get over it.
She had every right to be mad, she didn't see him try any harder. It would take time, yes, but right now, she wanted to send her fist through that screen.
"It's okay mom, just-just hold on a little longer," Jim mumbled to her before he turned to the Changeling, "Thank you for doing this for me."
"I'm doing this for her," Strickler said quietly. Jim's eyes drifted from the man and right back to his mother who only responded with soft grunts. As the camera drifted away from the table, it had quickly switched to the top of the school where Claire and Toby had gasped when they finally reached the roof of the building.
"What, come on, just take the gratefulness!"
"Okay, I am glad that Strickler is redeeming himself, but he refused in the beginning because he was scared of getting his butt handed to him by a sixteen year old boy. He wasn't going to do it before if Jim didn't promise his safety."
"Yeah, don't leave Jimmy hanging! SAY YOU'RE WELCOME TO HIM!"
"Come on," Toby cried, finally pulling himself up, "nobody will see us up here. Let's get the portal open!" He heaved as he helped Claire onto the roof, coughing once Claire had run off to the side. He wiped his mouth in disgust as his teammate had whipped out the staff, trying to channel her emotion into it.
"Come on, hurry up. Angor Rot could be anywhere by now." Toby said, distracting Claire.
"I'm trying!"
"Concentrate," Toby reminded and Claire couldn't help but retaliate.
"What do you think I'm doing."
"Talking to me," he shrugged and Claire scoffed, trying once more. She squeezed her eyes shut and focused, the staff humming before it appeared from its small containment, black pouring over the Shadow Staff, fueling a portal.
Jim scrunched his eyebrows, watching the scene play out. Yet, those were his friends and he loved them dearly but it did amuse him that Toby was distracting Claire and she was already telling him to shut it.
Toby turned, gasping as his eyes grew in size, "Claire, Claire, Claire, Claire." He waved her hand at her, trying to catch her attention as Angor stood above them, dagger pulled and the same haunting grin still on his face, a golden light caressing Angor's face.
His grin grew, and Claire was completely oblivious of the danger they were in, "keep saying my name, it's really helping my concentration."
"No, Claire, he's here!" Toby breathed out and Claire snapped from her daze, letting out a gasp as her chocolate brown eyes landed on Angor's arched form.
"The weak human thinks she has the will to power the Skathe-Hrün." Toby whimpered as he and Claire made a break for it. However, Angor wasn't letting them away so easily. He leaped from his position with a harsh grunt, following after them.
"To power the what now?"
They climbed each level of the school roof until Toby nearly lost his balance over the edge. Luckily Claire had stopped him just in time before he fell to his doom. He let out a yelp in surprise as they were cornered, Angor's angry huffs were heard, only making the nervous teens try to back up, the reminder of their situation setting when their feet scraped the edge of the building.
"Oh no," Toby started but Claire reached her hand out.
"Toby, get behind me." She commanded as Angor finally closed the distance on them, raising his dagger. Claire blocked the blow, letting out a grunt as their weapons collided.
"Tell me, where's the key to Trollmarket and I'll let you live."
"Toby, run!" Claire yelled out through gritted teeth, holding Angor back as best as she could. She shoved the troll to the side, letting Toby roll beneath them. Claire leaped from the ground, standing in between Angor and Toby with a scowl.
"Claire! Come on, we gotta climb!" Toby cried out as a look of determination crossed Claire's features, watching as Angor panted, his anger rising. He let out a battle cry, the metal swiping through the air as Claire dodged each fatal blow, managing to epicly battle the assassin despite no protection.
Claire groaned as she once again struggled against Angor's strength, blocking the dagger from reaching her. Angor moved his face closer, taunting her.
"A staff of such power is not meant to be wielded by man," Claire leaped back, keeping her strength. Her anger powered her to continue, using the staff, she swung around the troll and letting her foot collide with his face.
Jim titled his head, "now, see. That. That is where he had crossed the line." He wiggled his finger at the screen.
"How do you know? You didn't know her for that long?" Mary asked and Jim smiled.
"Well, I can't really hide the fact that I've been staring at her since she moved to Arcadia. This pretty much called me out. I'm not a stalker or anything but I know that you never say something like that to Claire." Claire's parents looked at each other and then in Jim's direction, noticing their daughter's smile.
Oh, how right he was.
She twisted the staff between her fingers, her glare hardening, "I am not a man." Once again, their fight resumed, the two flipping and leaping from one another's blows. As Angor grew more bothered, Claire had charged at him, only to be disarmed and kicked down in the end.
Everyone's jaws had dropped as Jim smiled proudly at her. He knew it. Mary just looked at Jim, the boy keeping his winning smile and shrugging.
Angor stood above her, holding the staff with a successful grin. "Now that is power!" His victorious chant was cut off as bricks struck his face, angering him more while Toby laughed in the background.
"Eat brick, hamburger face!" Toby yelled, throwing another brick. Yet, Angor was prepared, swinging the staff and blocking the incoming bricks.
Everyone cheered at Toby's quick thinking, the said boy smiling proudly. Not that he cared much about the other's thoughts on him beforehand, but he did have to admit that it was a nice feeling due to the fact that they now cared and thought he was cool.
College girls, here he comes. Maybe, due to the fact that his heart still belonged to the mysterious mole of their school.
"When I finish with the girl, I'm coming-" his words died instantly when Claire's "hi-yah!" was heard. Angor froze, his eyes wide like saucers , the brick dropping from his stiff hand. The only noise he could make out was nothing but a pitiful groan.
"Rule number three." Claire said, picking up the staff and running off towards the ladder. The assassin collapsed, holding his abused groin while Toby supported Claire up the ladder. Angor recovered quickly, watching as they tried once more to escape. As a green beam of light crossed over Angor's form, he had disappeared with the light as quick as it came and Toby had witnessed all of it.
Blinky nodded in approval, mumbling a small victory taunt to Kanjigar, hoping that he was still watching them and reflecting. Jim smiled, turning to Claire who seemed to be sucking in all the strength she just had shown.
"Nice kick," Jim commented, making her smile grow.
He gasped, gulping as he couldn't spot the troll anywhere. "Do you see him? Where'd he go?!"
"WAIT! THAT ISN'T POSSIBLE! I'm out, I'm done. I can't. Nope."
"Who cares!" Claire yelled and summoned a portal, "lets go!" Toby ran up beside her, the two not hesitating to run up to the opening of their only escape. Suddenly, fearful screams ripped from their throats as Angor leaped down in front of them, picking Toby up by the throat.
The poor boy shook in his grasp, Angor finding it amusing. "Leaving so soon?" He simply asked and pried the spell from Toby before chucking him across the roof, nearly sliding off the edge.
"Toby!" Claire cried, running up to him and gripping onto the boy, saving him from the harsh fall. Angor took the time to gaze upon the paper, chuckling when he saw what they had been after.
"You sought to break my enchantment, but you have failed. A pity you're not better warriors." He held the paper up in their view, pointing in their direction with a taunting grin.
"I'm not a Warrior, but I threw javelin in Track and Field!" Claire said proudly as she twirled the staff and aimed it at the paper, using all her might to throw the pointed head at the piece of paper Angor Rot so aimlessly held in front of the portal.
The staff pierced the paper, sending the spell through the portal with the staff, the Trollhunting team watched as the staff sliced through the air and collided with the Heartstone. Blinky yelped before getting a grip on Claire's staff.
"The incantation!" The mentor yelled while the portal closed behind them.
"But where are Toby and Claire?" Jim asked, worried.
"We must prepare the conjuration at once," Vendel stated, grabbing the paper from Blinky and murmuring while he read it. Soon, with a grim expression, Vendel looked towards Jim, his news shocking the Trollhunter. "It seems there is another problem."
Jim's gently dropped his mother's hand as her cries of pain grew louder, "what do you mean there's another problem?!" Barbara's gasps and cries made Jim completely forget about the answer, watching as she whimpered.
From Barbara's pained form, Angor had been raged when he was now left empty handed. He yelled out to the teens, corning them on the side of the roof. Toby gripped onto Claire as Angor cut the distance between them and pleaded.
"Don't hurt me!" Toby cried out before one of them had lost their balance, their panicked screams echoed through the night as the two thrashed in hopes to grab onto one another. Claire had gripped onto Toby, the pudgy boy hanging upside down from the roof and Angor had been the one to stop their fall.
His grip tightened on Claire's bag, raising his dagger to end their lives, only for a glowing orange hue to catch his eye and stilling his movements. Claire didn't seem to notice his gaze shifting, wincing as she waited for the blow.
Angor acted as if he would finish them, yet, he took an unexpected turn and sliced the purse free from the strap, leaving the two teens falling with their scared screams. Claire thought quickly as she fell, gripping onto the large banner hung outside the school, luckily Toby had grabbed onto Claire's legs, the banner hanging by a thread but slowing their fall.
Inside, students were too busy partying to notice their legs kicking in the windows. However, Claire was losing her grip on the sign, her eyes going up to meet Angor who watched with excitement, hand still gripping the bag.
"You have got to be…. AHHHHH!"
Finally, Claire and Toby had dropped from the sign, screaming as they fell into a nearby tree within the courtyard of their school. The two teens landed with a thud, Toby mumbling that it had hurt before their eyes drifted back to the roof where Angor still stood.
"I'll be seeing you again soon!" With nothing more, Angor laughed and ran from the roof top, leaping out of sight. Claire and Toby flopped to the ground, catching their breaths and finally out of trouble. Except, they had landed right back in front of Miss. Janeth and Coach Lawrence.
The flashlight covered Toby's distressed form and Coach's voice made them sit straight up, "you two again, Oh yeah, just getting some airrr! Right! Back to the dance!" The light faded before the scene changed, bringing them back to Vendel and Jim.
"The incantation as you know, makes Barbara experience whatever trauma befalls Strickler. Unfortunately, breaking the binding spell will also erase her memory," Vendel inputted, gently caressing Barbara's head as the two Lakes looked at him in shock.
"...Are. You. Flipping. KIDDING ME!? WHAT!? WHAT?! NO!"
"That's it, I'm done, it's just a joke now!" Jim groaned and slouched, it was already hard enough watching his mother faint the first time after almost being attacked by Draal, could he really stand it a second time? Also, dragging her back into this seemed reckless enough.
"Okay, let's make everyone so shocked they can't breathe, then excite them, oh, screw it, ruin it for everyone!" The student mocked, "I blame the creators! They have our life planned out for us and whoever is there to witness it is feeling what we feel right now! The creators are probably laughing so hard because of this!"
"The creators?" Eli asked.
"The creators of the Future, you know, like the Gods and stuff. Like the God of the Past, Present, Future kinda deal." Everyone nodded, letting out a chorus of ooooh's.
"What are you saying?" Barbara asked weakly, "that I'm going to forget Trollmarket? That Jim's the T-trollhunter?"
"I'll leave you both with a moment of privacy," The elder said, placing his hand on Strickler's back and leading him out as well. "Then we should enact the conjuration." Strickler looked at Barbara with remorse before following after Vendel, Jim trying to blow off some steam by lightly joking with a shrug.
"OKAY! EVERYONE SHUT UP! THIS IS THEIR MOMENT! I NEED TO LISTEN TO THIS AND FEEL THE LOVE SO I CAN CRY FOR THIS BEAUTIFUL FAMILY!"
"Guess we're going to have to have this conversation again?" Barbara's hand slid over Jim's picking it up from the table.
"Jim, listen to me." She started as Jim covered her hand with his other free hand, holding it up, "promise me, we will. Okay. It took all of this for you to tell me, about your other life."
"I just didn't want to worry you and I know I have." He averted her gaze until she responded.
"Yes, yes you have. I am worried, I'm scared, but listen to me. It is my job to worry. And it is not your job to protect me." She let out a shaky breath as Jim processed her words, looking down as he pressed his lips against their joined hands, on the verge of crying.
"I want you to know something," Barbara continued. "Even before you found this amulet, way before all of this. You were always my hero, my beautiful boy." She said, unfolding her hand and pressing it against Jim's cheek, the boy nuzzling her touch with a sad smile.
Jim looked defeated as the crowd awed at Barbara's speech and the two's interaction. This family was small but they cared so much for each other. Barbara bit her lip, she was glad that her son was finally able to hear it despite so much being put on his shoulders.
"Oh crap, I'm crying. This show needs to stop right now! I'm an emotional wreck!"
"I love you mom," Jim whispered, the two gently hugging as the trolls had stepped in again, ending their moment. Jim's eyes quickly drifted onto Vendel who was once again at her bedside, holding a crystal. Strickler had also returned, still silent and a grim expression clear on his face.
"I need to give you guys a hug, you are going through so much and it wasn't your choice. All of us in school just made it worse, all of us." One student spoke up, looking at Jim who had lightly sighed.
"You can't blame people that don't know the full story if they don't get insight. I understand, I guess I'm the Trollhunter and I have to learn to accept that things will no longer be normal for me, but it seems I'm proud to do it, even if the worst comes to worst."
Steve stayed silent, listening to Jim explain himself. The whole theater had grown silent, the shock taking over them, this was really the life of a teen in their school and they would have no idea if it wasn't for the host who had brought them here.
There were really Trolls beneath them and a human protector who was chosen and could not deny the call. They were really seeing Jim's life being played out after all of them so carelessly pushed him and Toby around.
They were really putting themselves in the boys shoes just by watching their secrets get spilled. If anything, it is a valuable lesson and they are glad that it did occur. Perhaps they could learn to respect those doing all of this and working so hard to keep it a secret.
"The time has come," Vendel started, holding the crystal near his face. "Place your hands upon the gemstone." He lowered it for Barbara to easily reach, the said woman setting her hand against it while Strickler tried to speak to her.
"Barbara, I-"
"Don't talk to me." She simply said. "You're the one thing I'm looking forward to forgetting." She turned her head away from Strickler and back onto her son. Strickler let out a small groan in defeat before looking away as well, his hand also lifting to the gemstone.
Barbara smiled proudly as someone in the crowd snorted, Mary snapping her fingers, "tell him!"
"She just handed your butt back on a platter. Ouch." Strickler dropped his head, he did have that coming. His feelings washed over him and any sort of revenge that he had in mind, vanished. What was he thinking? Now, he had lost someone that actually was willing to be with him.
He couldn't speak, knowing it wouldn't do anything good. Yet, the gaze from Jim spoke differently to him, it was unreadable but Strickler didn't feel off from the look, instead he felt a small bubble of warmth before it had popped and left nothing but a cold empty feeling inside of him.
Was it possible Jim was no longer as angry with him? The boy didn't seem to hold much of a grudge, if he did, Draal would have been dead meat.
As they both made contact, the gem began to hum, Vendel beginning to speak incoherent words. The light within the crystal grew brighter as Barbara kept her gaze on her son.
"Jim, promise me. After this is over, don't keep your Trollhunting a secret from me anymore." Jim looked at her, sadness building up behind his eyes, "promise me." She added before she moaned out in a pain, a soft and barely noticeable nod coming from Jim.
"JIM! You better nod more! I don't trust that, we could barely see it!"
A orb or light poured over Barbara's arm, flowing into the crystal as Vendel continued his chant. Strickler had also received the same treatment, their bodies convulsing with each wave of light. Barbara had grown silent, simply letting the pain wash over her.
Outside of the Heartstone, Aaarrrgghh and the rest of the trolls had noticed the constant dimming and brightness of the stone, everyone gathering and gasping in shock as they watched their source of light flicker.
Jim watched helplessly as Vendel calmly spoke the words, his mother balling her fists and letting another wave crash over her. However, Strickler didn't hide his pain, he voiced it rather loudly but it was drowned out in Jim's ears.
"Dude, Strickler, my man. What is it doing? Eating through your body or something?"
"Guys, look at Jim. That boy is just staring, he doesn't know whether to feel concern or laugh his butt off."
"He would if it wasn't his mother who could possibly be feeling the same pain."
The Trollhunter barely heard Strickler's roars of pain as Vendel's voice echoed clearly in his head. He simply watched the man cry out, Jim looking like a little child as he watched Strickler, somber music playing in the background. When his mother moaned, Jim quickly looked at her. She was merely flinching, eyes wide as she stared at anything in the room other than the gemstone and Strickler.
"I just gained tons of respect for Barbara, she is handling all of this like a champ. Sorry, Strickler, but you are screaming as if someone is tearing you apart while Barbara was in a lot worse pain and she is just taking it."
"She's also a mother, once women become a mother, I swear, they become all powerful." Barbara smiled, she knew that she would be able to handle the process, even though in the beginning she could barely keep her cries inside.
"How many damn times has Strickler's arm been in a sling?! This man gets a papercut and his arm is in a sling."
Vendel was shown, his eyes closed as he spoke and a flash of white had caused the scene to drift to Strickler who was glancing at Barbara, a genuine apology pouring from his lips.
"Forgive me, Barbara." The flash of white appeared again and this time it was Barbara who never replied to Strickler but had her gaze back on Jim.
"Jim, promise me." She asked once more and Jim smiled lightly, nodding his head slightly again. The scene faded behind white, now showing Barbara's hand falling from the crystal, right as the scene once again turned into nothing but a blanket of white.
"I don't know how to feel about this, Strickler was-is… he has been a bad guy, and now he is trying to redeem himself. Do I stay angry at him because he hurt someone who never deserved to be hurt, only because he was scared, or do I accept him after he is trying to patch things up?"
"Let's accept him when Barbara and Jim accept him. They are the reason why we are against him."
"Agreed," another student added as Barbara and Jim looked at each other with amused expressions. Strickler, however, tried to ignore the fact they were talking about him while he was in the same room. Not like that was a first but they haven't been verbally attacking him so he guessed that was better than nothing.
Within the school, Claire and Toby sat on the bleachers, not mingling in the crowds but pouting instead. Toby had his arms folded as he watched the nearby dancers, seeming unpleased with their current situation.
"Great. Now what?" Instead of answering, Claire looked towards Toby.
"Why did Angor steal my purse?" Toby had no answer but his phone had gone off, startling the boy and causing him to gasp. He quickly pulled it from his pocket as Claire asked, "is it Jim?" Toby read the message, excitement growing over his face.
"Hey! Looks like Doctor L. is going to be a-okay! Mission accomplished, am I right!" Toby held out a fist, waiting for Claire's but noticed her slouched posture as she sadly watched a couple saunter by, laughing and having a good time.
Jim frowned lighty, it seemed as if her night was ruined because of his Trollhunting missions. They were both looking forward to this dance and now she was trapped in it seeming down. He didn't like to see her upset, she didn't deserve it.
His hand once again found her's, the two already used to the affection. Claire smiled, letting him know that she was alright despite what was being shown on the screen. Their futures couldn't be changed but she knew that whatever happened, they would get through it.
She groaned in frustration, finding the night ruined as she held her head in her hands. Toby stood, stepping in front of her as he spoke softly.
"You know, I may not be Jim, but I can cut a rug like a jitterbug! Sorta…" Toby said, holding out his hand for her to take. Claire smiled with a small gasp, accepting his invitation.
"I would love too," she said, the two stepping to the dance floor but Toby had suddenly froze, a gasp escaping his throat. Claire's eyes followed his, only to find the mole partying by themself but still enjoying the time. He gulped and Claire couldn't help but smile.
"Go dance with her. We both know you want to." Claire said, Toby looking extremely nervous.
"I don't know who "her" is."
"That's what makes it romantic." Claire added and lightly shoved him in the mole's direction. Toby awkwardly danced his way up to the mole's side, holding out a hand once he got close enough.
"Uh, hi, may I have this.. Uh-uh, you know this, jitterbug… I mean dance?" He corrected, looking extremely shy. The mole didn't respond, making a confused head gesture and Toby began to mumble. "Stupid, stupid, stupid, stupid." He winced under their gaze right as a slow song began to play, "oh no!"
Everyone smiled, Darci blushing as she noticed his nervousness. That made her heart beat a little faster even when she stole quick glances at Toby. He really loved her inside the mole costume, he loved her on the inside.
She was herself in that costume and he fell in love with the dorkiness that she portrayed in the costume. He did ask every girl a few episodes back which did cause her to fume but she relaxed, this scene explained it all.
The mole said nothing, instead, she gripped his hand and pulled him further into the dance floor, Toby's heart beginning to race. The boy was so nervous, he had the mole take the lead, yet, right as they began to dance, he had stepped on their foot, the mole pausing.
Toby gulped once more, "this is nice." The mole didn't seem to mind the accident but didn't say anything in return, making this a lot more awkward for Toby. "I-is this nice? This feels nice. Sorry, a little nervous, a lot nervous, actually." Toby whimpered right before he squeezed his eyes shut. "I think I'm in love with you!"
"OH MY! I SHIP IT! WHOEVER IS UNDERNEATH THAT MASK, YOU BETTER LOVE HIM BACK!" Darci looked back at Toby, he still didn't know she was beneath it but hopefully he still accepted it.
Oh great, she hissed in her thoughts, now everyone will know that I am the mole. She simply shrugged, better this way if anything. However, she knew what Mary would say.
The mole said nothing and Toby grew worse but luckily, Senor Uhl had tapped the mic, freezing the dancers.
"Uh, hello? 1, 2. Hello, ah." The teacher said as the crowd gathered around the stage. "It's now time for the moment you've been waiting for. Announcing the queen and king of Spring Fling. This year's king is Steve Palchuk."
Steve cheered, the rest of the gym joining him as he climbed up on stage, eagerly accepting the crown and staff.
"Who's the king? Say it!" Steve yelled out as someone had said his name in an annoyed manner. However, Steve took it, celebrating, "yeah!"
Jim snorted, all that work and he didn't win. It really didn't matter but he wanted to see how Steve played out this "king" phase. The best part is that whoever spoke in the crowd had been the only one and did not seem excited.
Yet, he should probably congratulate the bully even though he was recklessly cheating through all of them, well there wasn't much harm in the theme competition. He just tried to act like the hulu idea was the best. It wasn't that bad of an idea either.
"Congrats, Steve," Jim said, turning in his direction.
"Why thank you peasant." Jim made a face at that and turned back around, Claire laughing.
"Aw, I really thought this would be the year of Eli," the boy said in defeat, holding his arm.
"Really, moving on. And this year's queen is none other than our Darci Scott." Senor Uhl said, looking around the crowd while they cheered. "Where's Darci? Is Darci here tonight?" The camera cut through the crowd, stopping at Toby and the mole.
Toby was looking around the crowd for Darci before the mole behind him had removed their head, revealing none other than Darci. Toby gasped, he and the crowd turned to face the smiling girl.
Mary and Claire's jaws had dropped, not even registering their friend's giggle. Darci never told them, after all, she had just started the Mole gig, yet, she could easily tell their reactions would be priceless.
Well, Claire rarely judged, Mary, however.
"Girl!" Mary started, dropping her phone, "you're the mole and you didn't tell us?!" Claire turned to Toby who was gaping like a fish.
"I wasn't ready, well, I mean, I still am not prepared but it seems our futures have other plans." Darci gestured to the screen, shrugging. She didn't seem upset about the news getting out, just more amused that she had to explain it to Mary who could barely comprehend it.
Her eyes darted to Toby who shared the same expression as on-screen Toby. Well, this can't get any…..uh, different. She thought, trying not to use the word "worse" when it clearly wasn't as bad.
Unsuspecting! Yes, that's the word! She nodded, pointing to no one in particular while Toby still muttered incoherent words, Jim shaking him with a bit of concern.
"You still with us, Tobes?"
Toby's posture dropped as he let out a long gasp in shock, "popularity is a lot of work, this way, I can just be myself sometimes." She stated, clearing up Toby's questions that hadn't even been asked.
"But I asked you out, you said no."
"You asked out every girl, I wanted you to go to the dance with me, for me." Darci said, stepping up to retrieve her crown but paused and turned back to a deflated Toby. "But, after what you said, you're reasonably cute." She held out her hand, Toby now growing excited.
"It sounds like she might actually like you back!" Jim said excitedly. However, the news made Toby's heart beat frantically, once again spacing out just after his mind finally had cleared.
"Really?!"
"You may be my duke." She suggested and Toby quickly took her hand as she led him up to the stage.
"Awesome sauce!" Claire watched from the sidelines, laughing before she sadly stepped out of the gym. Her future boyfriend was now in the hospital, watching his mother sleep soundly. Jim smiled, sighing as he finally relaxed. He made sure she was comfortable before fixing her blanket.
"You know what this reminds me of? A very cliche movie where the girl is hurt because the one she loves isn't there, and sadly steps out to be alone while watching everyone else enjoy their night. Then boom, her lover comes to sweep her off her feet, saves her, they kiss, and everything is happy."
"This show never has happy endings. But, yeah, I see what you mean. Frickin Hallmark Christmas movies."
"I feel as if that is really happening right now. If not, Jim, I am pulling you by your hair to Claire!"
"You'll be safe here," he mumbled, beginning to walk away before she tiredly called out his name, freezing him in his tracks.
"Jim? Is that you?" Jim pulled out his amulet, not turning to face her just yet. "Honey? What happened?"
"Mom," Jim started, "something happened last night. Something you can't tell anyone." Jim headed back to her bedside as she turned to her side, facing him.
"Is he really telling her? NO WAY!"
"This is Jim we are talking about, I doubt it."
"Hey!"
"What is it? Why do you look so worried?"
"Well, uh...there was a.." he licked his lips, gathering himself, "an accident. Y-you fainted, bumped your head and I drove you here." He lied, fixing her blanket as she smiled, listening to him.
"DAMN IT JIM!" Barbara shook her head, saying nothing. She knew her son and she knew well enough to not expect him to tell her again, especially now that she was out and cleared from being involved with the Trollhunting business without her own knowledge.
"You stubborn little turd, I should have seen that coming," someone shook their hood as Jim gave off a cheeky smile. He could already see himself in the future lying to her despite anything happening. He dind;t want his mother to get hurt even if she told him to stop protecting her.
He never listened and it was clear because he never even followed the Trollhunter rules, not even the counciling. Blinky, however, found amusement from the situation, not even yelling at the boy.
"My hero," She repeated, hand going against his cheek as he once again leaned into her touch, "I know there are things going on with you, Jim. Things you don't want to tell me." Jim panicked at that, eyes growing in size as he stood a little straighter.
"There are?! I-I mean, you do?"
"Sure, you're sixteen. You have your own life. I just want you to know, there's nothing you can't share with me." Jim stood, her words stabbing him with guilt. "Whatever it is, I can take it." She smiled confidently.
"Deja Vu, what a nasty little thing."
"I know you can," Jim added before he had disappeared from view, the scene going to the outside of the school, Claire sitting alone on the curbside. The sound of a Vespa alerted Claire, Jim pulling up to her and turning off the mo-ped.
"Hey," he simply started as Claire stood, excited to see him.
"Hey, how's your mom?"
"She's going to be alright, thanks to you. She's not tied to Strickler anymore but she won't remember much, you know."
Claire folded her arms, listening with a smile. "The-the dance isn't over," she reminded.
"Uh, I just kinda want to get out of here, didn't want our first dance to be in a stupid gymnasium anyway."
"Oh, okay," Claire slacked, feeling hurt. However, Jim pulled out a spare helmet, holding it close to her.
"Jim, APOLOGIZE TO HER RIGHT NOW!"
"But, I got some place else in mind." A smile appeared on her face as she grabbed the helmet and slid on behind him, a small hum of happiness escaping her. Once she gripped onto him, Jim kicked up the stand and drove away from the curb, turning once the light turned green.
"Anyone else thought he was going to run that light?" Someone mentioned as people nodded, ready to scold Jim for being a reckless driver but instantly relaxing that the light had changed before he had reached the intersection.
"Can we talk about how awkward it would be if this romantic music and beautiful scene was stopped because of a stoplight."
"Are we going to ignore the fact that Jlaire is happening right now! This is big!" Jim and Claire simply smiled, the two already closer than usual. Except the two stubborn teens wouldn't confirm it out loud yet.
They drove through the night, the street lights softly lighting up their path as Claire relaxed against him, finally smiling as she watched their surroundings as if this was her first time in Arcadia. Her eyes drifted to the moon, smiling while Jim focused on the road. She took in a breath of fresh air before leaning her head on Jim's shoulder, the Trollhunter not hiding his smile.
Everyone squealed, Mary even taking a picture of the screen and nodding in approval. Barbara was excited for her son, after everything that happened so far, she was glad that he was finally having his moment with the girl he liked.
"If something ruins all of this, I will cry. Let the children have a good ending to the day for once!"
He drove through the grass, reaching the familiar hilltop above the city which was covered in gorgeous lights. When they were finally off the Vespa, Jim had played a romantic playlist and let his phone rest on the seat.
The two smiled fondly at one another before their bodies gently pressed together, hands binding as they started to slow dance, Claire laughing as Jim spun her around, the pure enjoyment on their faces.
"My heart, oh my goodness." Claire and Jim smiled once again, thinking that this would have been the best night of their lives so far. Not that the Trollhunter missions gave them thrilling nights but Claire and Jim needed a moment with one another, to let their relationship progress.
"I know you'll be devastated, but you lost. Steve is our Spring King," she said, Jim ducking behind her.
"That's funny, I don't feel like a loser," he said, smiling and dancing like a goofball, making Claire all the more happy. He spun her around, singing to the music making Claire laugh. Suddenly Claire gasped when Jim lightly dipped her, being a playful idiot. She continued to giggle, enjoying the night.
As they were about to kiss, Claire pushed him away, freaking out and mumbling the word "no," over and over again.
"WHAT! NO! NO! NO, NO, NO, NO, NO, NO, NO, NOOOOOOO!"
"Claire what the heck man!? We were about to watch you guys lock lips and you push him away!? ARE YOU CRAZY!?"
"I knew something would always ruin it!" Students murmured, seeming upset now. The two sat below them, giving one another a look. Yes, Jim was curious on why she shoved him away, did he go too far but it didn't seem like she seemed to reject his movements. Something else was on her mind, he knew her too well.
"What? Is it my breath?" He checked it curiously before Claire's head shot up in his direction.
"No, no, no! I know why he ran off with my purse!" She gripped Jim's shirt, "he has it, he has it!"
"What? You saw him?"
"Okay, so Angor ruined the moment, fantastic. Way to go, this was so perfect now the happy ending to this episode will not be a thing!"
"When do they have a happy ending?! These episodes lead you on thinking it will be happy but then SURPRISE, you have been bamboozled."
"He has it, he has it!" She cried out again.
"SPEAK WOMAN, LET THE POOR BOY KNOW!"
"Claire! Angor Rot has what?"
"He has the key to Trollmarket!" She practically yelled, voice cracking. Speaking of Angor, the troll had dug through her bag, spilling the contents on the floor but lifted the said key to Trollmarket, the stone glowing and humming as he eyed it victoriously.
"You cannot hide from me now, Hunter!" The episode ended with the key lifted high into the air, a grin on his face.
No one dared to speak, shyly turning to Vendel who had been silent since the interaction with Angor, Claire, and Toby. He rarely input anything anyways unless spoken too, he made it clear that he had no need to speak randomly on unimportant occasions, yet, for some reason, his silence was chilling and everyone grew nervous.
Jim looked at Claire, already telling her not to blame herself or Toby for what had happened, he would help them out and they would figure it out.
"Guys, this is it… things are changing."
"THEY DIDN'T KISS THOUGH!"