Author's note:
BEFORE WE GET SCOLDED!
The part where Nomura gets her leg broken and Jim becomes a target for the Decimar Blade, instead of Jim instantly recovering from the hit, we acted like he took a little bit to try and even stand since in the show, it plays out pretty dumb where he seemed fine and never once stood up to run when he seemed to have all that time.
I think it must have been just a mess up with the animation but that part is so frustrating because he seemed perfectly fine and never stood.
Just a heads up since we got some close watchers. Sometimes we miss the typos, lol.
GUYS! We would also like to mention that after being brought to our attention, we are trying to add more main character reactions. This is our first reaction book ever and we had all these comments….
It's a little challenging, because we weren't sure how Jim and the main characters would react to their own lives, but we tried! Thank you for the nice criticism! We always want to better our work for you guys to enjoy thoroughly.
Things are starting to calm down with one of the writers, some of us still have some issues but we thank you guys for the support and we are glad you guys are looking forward to it!
Enjoy!
Homecoming
The episode began with a dramatic start, revealing the three groups still trapped in a situation. While Claire and Toby were still inspecting a way out of the cell, Blinky was suspended from a shaft, dangling in chains. Jim was breathing heavily as he eyed his surroundings, the scene now focusing on him.
"A battle to break your will!" Gunmar cried as Nomura stood up straight, eyes narrowed. She pulled a sword from her back, slowly advancing on the Trollhunter who stepped back, trying to keep the wide distance between them. "If the impure cannot break your armor, her death surely will. You shall be mine!"
While Gunmar grinned victorcally from his throne, Jim let his sword vanish, instead going for his trusted shield in hopes that he didn't have to injure his new friend.
"We don't have to fight, Nomura," Jim said, holding up a hand as he continued to step back.
"You don't. I do. Sorry. I really was getting to like you." She let out a grunt, holding out her two swords and charging at the boy. However, with every twist and turn she pulled, trying to attack him, he blocked each blow, grunting from the force but keeping up his defense. "Fight me, young Gynt! Or else Gunmar will do us both in."
She continued to kick and scratch at his shield, using her strength while Jim held up his own, ducking from her harsh kicks. "My friends are here. We're going home."
"Correction, best friend and GIRLfriend," Toby said, grinning towards him. Jim chuckled and nudged him playfully.
"I should say the same for you and Darci. I can't believe you have a girlfriend when I am in the Darklands!"
"What can I say, I'm a ladies man." He joked, earning a small grin from Jim.
"Home? Home is gone!" She cried out, pressing the sharp blades against him. However, Jim was starting to grow tired from each repetitive blow. He donned his sword but it was instantly knocked from his hands. He quickly recalled it again, using his own blade to block her from getting so dangerously close to his face.
"I really don't understand why she switched up so fast again. It's hard to tell what's going on in her head."
"Maybe, since she wasn't so easily persuaded about freedom, Gunmar used it against her, instead of using the blade, they probably either tortured or made her believe that Jim was just losing his mind in captivity."
"I guess I'll give him some credit, he is lasting a lot longer in battle with Nomura than when he revealed his secret to Claire." Steve mentioned, shrugging lightly.
"I think it's pretty epic when he magically gets a hold of his shield. He's learned so much and I am very proud." Shannon added, making Jim blush. He still wasn't as used to the compliments that he was receiving from his peers.
He yelped when each time, the blades seemed to get closer but he managed to block them. That was until his sword was knocked from his hands and into the air. Knowing he had no time as Nomura was already onto her next attack, he donned his thigh blades, using those to split her blades from him.
"They're in the dungeon. I saw them. We just have to get back there." Nomura seemed to be shocked at the news before her eyes narrowed again, remembering what she had to do.
"Only one of us is leaving this arena." She hissed, lifting Jim in the air and kicking him off to the side, the boy grunting and colliding with the ground. Jim yelled as he bounced from the smooth surface and into a nearby pillar.
"Like, I know something happened to her but I wanna punch her because of what she is doing to him." A student commented but Nomura kept her stoic face, responding as she watched the screen.
"You'll die, I do not recommend it. "
Painfully he pushed himself up as his armor let out a weak hum, the light fading. "Oh, no." Jim felt his chest, panicking while Gunmar celebrated at the sight of it, grinning and leaning forward.
"His will, it's weakening." While Jim fought for his life, Claire and Toby had prepared themselves in the cell, seeming as if they were ready to run despite nowhere to go.
"So is your's, Gunmar!" Toby cried out before blushing madly when he realized what he said and the fact that he said it out loud.
"Dude, that is a sad insult." Mary added, rolling her eyes.
Eli spoke up, ending anything Toby was going to say. "If Jim's will is weakening will that also take a toll on the amulet and if the amulet is weakening in time even though Kanjigar is powering it, will that also affect Jim?"
"Not sure, the amulet works in mysterious ways." Blinky replied, now thinking about the ultimate possibilities with Merlin's device.
"He's holding out so long through all of this!"
"We're committing to this," Claire started.
"Yeah, I'm committed." Toby answered, rubbing his nose. Beside them, Chompsky also readied himself even though he had run free from the cell before. Toby smiled down at Chompsky before Claire spoke up.
"That is so pointless but I love Chompsky and the fact that he is joining them when he can just saunter out."
"Toby, don't hold back."
"I'm not. On three…"
"One, two, three!" The two counted together, running to the golden spears that trapped them in the confined space. Instead of breaking through like they hoped, they bounced from the bars, electric shooting from them.
"Hulk smash!" A student yelled out and Toby blinked at them suspiciously.
"Wrong universe dude…"
"I really thought we had it this time." Toby gasped out as Claire pushed herself up.
"I don't think this door's gonna open." She paused as she heard Chompsky waving at them, chattering happily. "Kanjigar said we needed Chompsky to be our guide and more. You don't think…" She stood with Chompsky in her hand, lifting him to the keyhole. The Gnome sniffed it curiously, instantly wretching and shaking his head.
"Chompsky is so spunky and I love it!"
"Good thing Fair Claire is a master of Riddles."
"You'll forgive me if this works," Claire added, forcing the Gnome in. Quickly, Chompsky got to work, a click was heard and the bars retreated, letting Toby and Claire run free.
"I love how Claire is so used to this now. It's crazy to think she is also a part of the Trollhunting team and taking it so seriously!" Darci said, clapping while Mary sighed lightly.
"Yeah, but while she is spending all the time with boys and on these adventures, she has no time for us."
"I think it's cool now that we know what's really happening. She and Jim are like the cutest couple and it works. Besides, you hang out with boys all the time."
"You girls know I still love being around you, now I also have a responsibility." The two girls smiled at Claire, understanding. However, Claire's parents watched silently, giving each others knowing looks.
Ophelia bit her lip, she wanted to use her power to reveal the magic within the town, especially if she had future plans to run for it, yet, she realized how important this was to her daughter. She watched as the kid who destroyed their house and ruined everything, save their young son from some troll named Gunmar.
She also realized that her daughter willingly ran back in for him and she accepted it. Granted, Ophelia was still indecisive on the situation but she knew she couldn't fight Claire on it, even if she wanted her daughter to achieve her dreams as an actress.
Chompsky let out a laugh and leaped into Claire's awaiting hand as Toby spoke, "how would Kanjigar know that?"
"He cheated and had visions that is why! What a little cheater!"
"Who cares! Let's get Jim. Chompsky, go find Blinky and Aaarrrgghh" They watched as Chompsky zoomed in a random direction.
"Ha! Such a spunky little fella." Toby commented before watching Claire take off in another. He followed her as the scene switched, now focusing on Blinky and Aaarrrgghh who dangled above a narrow passageway, green liquid floating beneath them as Blinky hung in defeat.
"Dictatious, I thought you were dead. I mourned you." Blinky admitted, watching his said brother step into the light with a wicked glare.
"Sentimental sap. Despite a plenitude of eyes, you remain blind to the truth. Gunmar is trollkind's salvation."
"Um, that is where you are wrong. He does it the wrong way and for the wrong reasons. Killing and scaring will not gain any supporters, that is a dictator."
"No, that is a dictatious." Toby joked, raising his eyebrows in Blinky's direction.
"I don't understand." Blinky replied before students began to converse.
"Gunmar ruins troll kind even though he wants them to reclaim the surface but makes all of them his minions. There's reasons why he was sent to exile."
"I really want to see the past, see what he did and who was truly in the wrong."
"Look how Gunmar treats his own minions! We will see who is the true bad guy and hero!"
"No. This isn't you, brother. This is the cursed blade of Gunmar talking."
"This is not the blade's work. I chose to follow Gunmar."
"Uh, either he beat the crap out of you at first to make you that way or you're just plain stupid. There is no reason he would have to respect any of his workers if he can't even respect a simple person or thing."
"I idolized you. Your books fill my library," as Blinky told his brother the painful months he spent missing his brother, Dicatious didn't seem to care, only wanting answers.
"And your words waste my time. Gunmar's restoration of Earth is finally upon us. Once you disclose the location of the Killahead Bridge."
"Help you free Gunmar? Ha! You could torture me a thousand years on hot pokers, and I'd never tell." Dictatious rolled his eyes before socking Blinky in the nose, the troll threw his head back, yelping. "I'll never tell you!"
"Hmm... Oh, really, brother?" Dicatious cracked his fist and Blinky easily caught on.
"Oh, no!" He received another punch to the face, yelping but quickly regaining himself. "I didn't think you'd bring pillows to this fight." Blinky hissed before he was poked in the eyes and received another blow to the face. "I thought I ordered meat sauce, not weak sauce."
A student snorted, causing everyone to look at them in shock. "I'm sorry, I didn't expect that, it was so sudden."
"Blinky?! Trash talking to his captor! I live for it! It's like two brothers just bickering about candy!" Vendel watched with a small grin, enjoying the sight of a reunion between both brothers being so amusing when it should be so serious.
Jim looked at the screen with a smile. He was mad that Dicatious has even thought of hurting his own brother, especially when Jim was close with Blinky and didn't enjoy that he was being injured. However, he was handling himself well and Jim knew that Blinky was a tough troll even though he refused to do anything dangerous when Jim first started as the Trollhunter.
Blinky spun when Dicatious threw another fist at him, smoothly talking, "How about now?"
"If I wanted to be tucked in, I would've called Mother." Blinky hissed, only causing Dicatious to laugh as he crossed his arms.
Jim chuckled, looking at Toby. The two found the situation hilarious as Blinky insulted his own brother. Toby shook his head, shocked. "Who knew Blink had it in him." Blinky grinned, loving the sight of him staying strong in front of his brother.
"Oh, dang. Burn! GET SOME WATER!"
Eli beamed as the conversation went on, seeming more fascinated by the minute. Steve grinned lightly, this boy was a nerd for this stuff and for some reason, now that Steve was working with Eli, he wasn't so annoyed by it.
He wouldn't say it out loud, but he enjoyed the sight of Eli feeling successful and winning since everyone believed he just had a wild imagination.
"You always had a weak stomach, didn't you?"
"Oh, no!" Blinky managed to say before he was rapidly spun in a circle, crying out. "No!"
"Where did you move the bridge?" Dicatious hissed out.
"Your bark is worse than your bite."
"Yes! Blinky! SHOW HIM WHO IS BOSS!" Toby cheered, clapping. "That's my man."
Blinky was spun once again, Dicatious continuing to ask the same question, "Tell me! Where is it?"
"Don't you know it's not in my nature to break? I once admired you. But now I see, you are the rotten apple in the family tree. I'll never tell you!"
"Oh, but you already have," He wore a grin, fingers tapping his chin as he began to piece it together, Blinky growing shocked. "It's obvious you would require privacy, yet space, to rebuild the bridge, but it's your choice of wordplay that gives it away. Bark, tree, nature."
"Wait, I'm sorry? What the heck is this!? LET US HAVE SUCCESS FOR ONCE!"
"Oh, no." Aaarrrgghh added in.
"Killahead Bridge is in a forest somewhere near Arcadia."
"No way….." Claire mumbled.
"You have got to be kidding me!" The whole crowd groaned as Blinky sat in his seat, quietly scolding himself. His brother was smart and he had forgotten the one thing he had idolized his brother for.
He crossed his arms, shaking his head and swearing in his mind. He was already loathing this day in the future.
"You evil mastermind!" Blinky said, no longer trying to deny where the location was.
"Soon it will be ours," Dicatious turned to the awaiting guards, commanding them. As Dicatious's back had been turned to his captivated brother, Blinky had struggled, catching sight of his missing flare. "Find out where it corresponds in the Darklands and inform Gunmar at once."
"My flare! If only I could reach-." As Blinky tried to shyly move to his sacred item, Dicatious turned to him, freezing in his tracks. He eyed a spear, playing with the tip as he taunted his prisoner.
"Oh my goodness! Just like Kanjigar said! Is Dictatious planning to murder Blinky!? I can't believe he'd do that to his own brother!"
"I would poke all his eyes in rage if he did!"
"Sticks and stones may break your bones, but a Parlok spear can do far worse. Adieu, brother." Blinky squirmed in his bindings as Dicatious aimed the spear, instantly he charged at Blinky with the spear, however, due to Blinky's constant squirming, the spear collided with the chain, cutting Blinky free from his binds.
Grabbing the flare with his teeth, Blinky stood straight, swiping the blinding light across Dicatious' face. The said troll stumbled back, holding his pain stricken eyes. He fell to the floor, rolling around as he cried out in pain.
"My eyes, my six eyes!"
As Blinky moved out from his chains, he eyed the flare, relieved. "Oh, great destiny! Kanjigar was correct. Our success could still be fated!"
"You brat!" Dicatious cried, looking around desperately to see but it failed miserably. "You useless little fleabag of a-."Blinky had cut him off, getting a hold of the spear and aiming the blunt side towards his brother's head.
"No, finish that sentence, I'm curious as to what you have to say," A student hissed.
"Goodbye, DIC-TATIOUS!" As his adrenaline pumped, Blinky turned to his friend in need, slicing through the chains and freeing Aaarrrgghh.
"YAY! Blink! Blink! Blink! Blink!" The crowd chanted while the Trollhunters smiled, knowing that Blinky had it in him. Aaarrrgghh smiled at the sudden confidence that his friend showed. Blinky was never one to get into battle since he lacked the courage too.
Seeing this was incredible and his partner was growing into a more independent troll. Who knew a couple of humans could change Blinky where he was willing to risk his life for them.
Blinky smiled when he noticed Aaarrrgghh looking at him like a proud parent. He knows that he made some serious progress but he didn't realize it would go noticed quickly.
"You rock Blinky. Now you feel better since you got a chance to get revenge." Jim mentioned, making the troll smile.
"Indeed I did."
"Thank you." Aaarrrgghh simply said, the two taking off as quickly as possible before they were stopped by a frantic Chomspky. Blinky and Aaarrrgghh leaned to his height, hoping to understand their small comrade. "Where are others?"
"I fear that is the message he is struggling to convey. Lead the way, our pint-sized friend." Blinky said, holding out a hand for Chomspky to stand on. The Gnome stood tall on Blinky's hand pointing in a certain direction, chattering.
Back with Jim, the boy was still defending himself from her sharp blades, using his own to keep distance between them despite the close proximity already. Jim grunted, pushing her off but she continued to strike, the two jumping and ducking from each other's blows.
Gunmar realized Jim's lack of fighting, growing mad. "You're holding back. Kill the changeling! This will not end until you take her life." As Gunmar scolded him, Jim managed to disarm Nomura, resulting in him being elbowed in the face instead.
The boy tumbled to the side, quickly standing and dodging a stream of flames that shot from the wall. Jim epicly leaped over the Nyarlagroth's wild tongues, Nomura give chase behind him. He jumped over another tongue from the creature he repeatedly fought and his competitor had disappeared from view.
Jim watched as she leaped from wall to wall, landing in front of him and getting a hold of his shoulders. Before Jim could even register what was about to happen, his body was flug through the air as he let out a scream, his body smacking into a wall as dust and rock crumbled from the stone statue he had smacked into.
The crowd winced, even Barbara mumbled about seeking out her own revenge if her son came out injured, she still cheered him on despite that he was just thrown into stone and didn't completely shatter every bone in his body.
Gunmar grinned at the sight of the Trollhunter being injured, listening to the silence was now comforting for him. That was until the sound of metal alerted both Gunamr and Nomura. The Changeling watched in shock as he appeared from the cloud of dust, riding down a thick spike on his shield.
She pulled out her swords with a yell, Jim doing the same, only spawning his thigh blades. The boy leaped into the air, the shield still connected to his feet as he threw his blades, distracting Nomura. As she knocked the boomerang-like weapon, her face was instantly met with Jim's shield, the said boy sliding between her legs and grabbing a chunk of her hair.
The Trollhunter held Nomura in a lock, donning his sword and gently putting it to her throat, "Will you listen to me? There's a way out. Claire and Toby are here to save us."
Everyone cheered and was mildly impressed at Jim's fighting skills. Gunmar was indeed making him stronger and they grew excited that this might end well for the team.
"See, I told you I could do it." Jim joked, remembering when Steve had doubted him in the beginning.
"Yes, I guess you can. I think we might need to talk soon." Steve added, shocking the Trollhunter but Jim smiled lightly, nodding.
"You cry for your friends, but there is no rescue." Nomura hissed before getting a grip on the sword with her teeth, kneeing Jim in the stomach before she threw him to the side, roughly slamming him into the ground.
Jim cried out as his eyes clenched, red smoke pouring from his armor at the impact. He tried to push himself up as the Changeling held him down, scolding him. "There is no home!" Speaking of his friends, they were currently running throughout the Darklands, stopping in a narrow area, a large skull sitting in front of them.
"We've been here before. We're running in circles." Toby breathed out, catching his breath while Claire had been listening closely, hearing the light cries of Jim.
"I can hear him. He's got to be on the other side of this skull!" She exclaimed, pressing her ear to the skull, listening in.
"I used to love mazes. Not anymore." As Toby relaxed against the nose of the skull, it clicked beneath his weight, a loud rumbling reaching both their ears.
"What did you do?"
"That wasn't me," Toby managed to get out before their bodies were no longer supported by the skull, sending them through a steep tunnel. The two screamed as they slid uncontrollably down the shute, the scene changing from Claire and Toby's panicked cries, to Nomura who advanced on Jim slowly, the boy still trying to reason with her as he held off her attacks.
"DON'T LIE TO US TOBY!"
"No one dies today. We're going home." She replied with her sword slicing through the air, the Trollhunter narrowly avoiding the harsh cut. With the blunt end of his sword, Jim managed to knock Nomura off her feet, this time getting the upper hand as he held the tip of his sword to her throat. "There's gotta be another way."
His exhaustion had caught up with him, the sword disintegrating and leaving him defenseless. "Uh…" Nomura grinned, using her legs to pull the boy to the ground. As Jim crawled away, Nomura inching slowly towards him like a haunting spider. "Come on, come on!" Jim yelped, a red burst of light shot from his hand, the sword never appearing.
"Yes!" Gunmar leaned forward on his seat, grinning as the boy then tried to don his shield, his line of weapons and protection never coming to his aid.
"PISS OFF GUNMAR!"
The host looked shocked before facepalming, "looks like there is a mature rating going on this to be safe…"
"Come on! Come on!" He hadn't had a moment to blink before he was pinned to the floor, Nomura arched above him with one sword raised and the other pressed to his chest.
"Your will betrays you and so does your armor."
"SAY SORRY TO HIM RIGHT NOW! HE WANTS TO SAVE YOU! LET HIM!" Jim really wished he could see what Gunmar had planned for her and why her mind changed so quick again. It confused him and he wanted to get to the bottom of it. Yet, he realized he really can't dwell on that one thought because if he and Nomura did escape, it wouldn't be as important. He just wanted to know though.
"Enough, Nomura. You've proven your loyalty." Gunmar ordered, standing as the spears on his chairs had grown green, his power charging for the blow. "Now, leave the final blow to me. Merlin's Trollhunter is mine." Before he could go through with the rest of his plan, Claire and Toby had finally dropped in the arena, screaming as they skidded to a halt, both landing on their hands and knees.
Granted Nomura didn't want to kill Jim, the episodes he spent in the Darklands with her, proved why he was chosen and was favorited, she could use an allie like that, however, it upset her that she risked her life, let herself believe whatever Gunmar did to her, and let the troll have the last kill.
Trolls always wanted to finish the fight, to take the kill because it represented them, and she did the majority of the work for it to be taken.
She was ready to take down Gunmar instead.
"Your friends!" Nomura exclaimed, standing after pushing Jim to the floor, "You're not crazy." Jim stood, rubbing the sore spot on his head as Claire lifted her head, looking shocked.
"Oh, everything hurts," Toby whimpered in the background, trying to push himself fully up.
"Jim!" Claire said excitedly, finally glad that they found him once again.
"Jim!" Toby repeated before he looked to the side, yelping in surprise. "Not just Jim!"
"Humans? Here?" Gunmar growled out, instant realization hitting him. "The bridge is open! Catch them!" As his army advanced, Nomura stood, leading the teens to the only exit.
"This way," Nomura hissed out
Toby pushed his body against the stone, the teeth like doors not even budging, "It's locked!" He cried. He turned back to Nomura who had drawn her swords out further, trying to keep a strong defense against the many guards approaching them.
"You have to get us to the bridge."
"And let him follow us?! Toby answered her, "We're not that crazy!"
Nomura perked at the cry of a Stalkling who was held within a large skull suspended over the arena. "Leave that to me." With the flick of her wrist, her sword was swung, sticking itself within the lock that had trapped the beast.
Now free, the Stalkling roared, finally stretching its wings and letting its anger do the work for the Trollhunting team. The guards yelped and ran as two had already been grabbed by the winged troll, the Stalkling dragging them harshly over the stone floor.
Gunmar watched the scene unfold as he charged his ability, crying out at the flowing power run through him. He stood with a greater roar, feeling invincible.
"I feel like this part should be forbidden to see."
"Shut. Up. Shut up."
Toby turned to the side, finding a familiar shape that had also been in the dungeon, revealing it to be, "There's a keyhole!"
"Holy sheeshkebab! The key! It's a crank!" Claire yelled, pulling it from Toby's backpack as they ran to the hole.
"Don't just stare at it! Use it!" Claire had missed the hole the first time but managed to slide the giant crank in, despite the force she had put into it, it wouldn't budge. Toby looked towards the fight, Nomura and Jim waiting to fight if need be.
The Stalkling roared as it held its prey, right before Gunmar had finally made it to the fight, grabbing the troll by its long neck, the Sta;kling tried to bite its way out, Gunmar began to squeeze, the Stalkling now roaring in pain. "Hurry!" Toby hissed out.
"DON'T SCOLD HER, HELP HER! DANG IT!"
"Uh, question… does anyone else feel bad for that Stalkling or is it just me?"
"What do you think I'm doing?!" As Claire continued to struggle, Gunmar had thrown the limp troll to the side, advancing once more. "Yes!"
The large stone doors slowly pulled themselves open, Claire and Toby already running through the exit. "Come on, come on! Let's go, Jim!" Toby cried as his said friend had still been standing guard with Nomura.
"Release my army!" Gunmar yelled, watching them flee. The guards picked themselves and others up, readying their spears and giving chase to their escaping captives. As the Trollhunters continued to run to the maze of Darkness, Toby looked to Jim in shock, not bothering to hide what was on his mind.
"What is Nomura doing here?" The pudgy friend asked, keeping up with Jim.
"She's with us."
"You're supposed to be alone! Kanjigar said you had to be alone!" Toby said, shocking Jim.
Barbara grinned, "Never get between Jim and his stubbornness, you know how he is. If he knows it's the right thing to do, he won't stop until he does it." Toby sighed, shaking his head.
"A blessing and a curse, Dr. L." Jim just grinned as they seemed exhausted just by Jim being stubborn. He loved it and found it amusing that his friends knew they couldn't do much to change it. "Don't smile Jimbo! You know I hate it sometimes!"
"I think this is what will be a downfall to something. Kanjigar gave specific rules and we all know if one rule is broken, it could all fall out of place." Eli started but a student quickly shushed him.
"If she sticks with them and nothing is set back they should be fine. They leave at the same time, then they wind."
"But they are saving two people. One extra then Kanjigar intended. One person could be captured and they waste time fighting trying to free them." Eli argued.
"LET THERE BE A HAPPY MOMENT MAN!"
"Wait, what?" They came to a stop behind Nomura who surveyed the area, Toby whimpering after breaking the news.
"This way!" Nomura yelled, leading them to the right. Claire and Toby shared a shocked look, things no longer going to plan.
Up above on land, Draal still waited in the darkness, pacing back and forth as he eyed the bridge, "Hurry, friends. Your time is slipping away." He mumbled, watching the amulet hand tick in response.
"No it's not! Shut the heck up!"
Back in the Darklands, Chompsky scurried through the now empty arena, searching around until he had come face first to the body of the Stalkling. Blinky and Aaarrrgghh had stepped foot into the space as well, the two catching the sight of dead Gumm-Gumms and the resting winged troll.
"The savage brutality. This is…"
"Gunmar," Aaarrrgghh groaned out before an angered roar echoed around them, their eyes darting to every corner of the room.
Blinky turned to Aaarrrgghh, afraid he already knew what beast still lurked, "That's more than Gunmar."
Their friends were still fleeing, running through the narrow tunnels. Despite not hearing or seeing any Gumm-Gumms, Nomura was still rushing through the area, quickly turning around when she had found a useless corner, "No, this way."
She skidded down the make-shift stairs, the three teens following, each taking the steps in a different manner. As they continued through the Darklands, their movements slowed, taking it a little easier.
As Nomura and Jim cleared through, Toby and Claire followed a little bit farther back, mumbling to avoid any drama if Nomura heard.
"Wasn't expecting to find her here."
Nomura scrunched her face, not taking that comment too kindly. Strickler let out a laugh, grinning at her reaction but she quickly sent her fist into his stomach.
The man coughed, holding his stomach and gasping out. "Do that again."
"I know, right? And we're supposed to rescue Jim. Only Jim." Toby said, not seeming too happy about it.
"I don't know! You wanna be the one to tell her that?" Claire hissed under her breath as the team came to a stop near a cliffside, the vast gap worrying Jim.
"Ope, guess plans are changing. Hmm, darn."
"We can look for another way around!" He suggested but Nomura had already come up with a plan, leaping wall to wall as she spoke.
"No time." She sliced through a chain, letting it drape in front of the teens. She rejoined them, yanking on the chain before handing it to Jim, "Youth before beauty."
Jim moved backwards to Claire, reaching out for her and carefully locking her in his hold, "You ready?" Jim let out a breath before he pushed himself forward, he and Claire smoothly making it across to the next platform.
That was until the stone beneath Claire's feet had cracked, sending her backwards. She clawed at Jim's shoulders, the said boy holding onto her tightly and using all his strength to throw himself back.
They yelped as Jim's back collided with the floor, his hands coming to a slack and accidentally relaxing too far down. "Hey, watch your hands!" Claire scolded.
Javier glared, watching the boy's hands very closely. He did not enjoy the fact of his daughter being felt up even if it was an accident. That was his princess, he had to make sure that men kept their hands to himself.
"Oh, I really pictured that going more smoothly," Jim gave a nervous smile, instantly holding up his hands.
Jim had to be overthinking everything after this, he was blushing madly after seeing him touch Claire in such a sacred spot and against her wishes. Then he decides to say a little witty sentence about it going smoothly after.
The boy facepalmed, mentally scolding himself. He was definitely overthinking a simple sentence but he also let his hands graze somewhere not allowed. Dang it.
On the other side, Nomura got a hold on the chain, wrapping it tightly around Toby's abdomen, "Thank you, Ms. Nomura." He said shyly.
"I never liked you," she simply answered.
Toby gasped, holding his chest but Steve quickly spoke up, shaking his head. "You called her ugly, man. What did you expect?"
"He called her hideous," Mary laughed, bringing on an uncomfortable situation. Toby looked at Nomura nervously and yelped when she was already staring at him.
"Granted, Jim and her fought all the time, but he also fixed it within the Darklands." Eli said.
"Might be a little tight. But that's fine," the boy said, grunting at the uncomfortable feeling, until Nomura growled and lowered to his height. She adjusted the chain, none too kindly before standing straight.
"Anything else I can get you?" Toby stuttered over his words and her angered tone before he was pushed from the side, swinging quickly over to Claire and Jim. The two reached out for their friend, however, his flailing hands had missed his friend's awaiting ones.
"No, no, no, no, no!" Toby cried, swinging back and getting stuck in the middle.
"Pump your legs, like you're on a swing!" Claire yelled, trying to help but Toby struggled. Nomura turned back to the guards who had finally caught up on them. With no hesitation, Nomura leaped off the side, right in Toby's direction who grew startled at the sight.
"No! Whoa!" He yelled as they swung to the other side, the sword slicing through the chain to free both her and Toby from suspension. Toby stood first, "Thanks, Ms. Nomura." He breathed out before the Changeling used him as a support system to stand back on her feet.
"I still don't like you." While they tried to escape from the Gumm-Gumms, Blinky and Aaarrrgghh were still in search of them, stepping into a familiar cave.
"Master Jim?" Blinky called out, eyes landing on a wall and shocking him. "Master Jim?" Blinky breathed out, inspecting the picture that could only have been drawn by his human Trollhunter. Aaarrrgghh looked in shock as he also stared at the drawing, "Perhaps we should rendezvous at the bridge."
Aaarrrgghh sadly pressed his finger against Toby's sketch before he had a spark of determination. "Find friends first." Blinky smiled with a nod, waving him on.
The crowd awed, even Toby smiling at the sight of Aaarrrgghh missing him. He was not ready to face the pain of losing the large troll but he was glad that they were all close.
"Come, Aaarrrgghh. Time is running out." Back to the other Trollhunters, Nomura was panting as she led the way, the teens following close behind until they were forced to a stop, Goblins surrounding them from above but not being seen. Only their cries and growls had reached the team.
"Did you hear that?" Jim asked.
"I'm hearing a lot of things, and I'm not liking any of it," Toby whimpered.
"Dude, Toby you are iconic as heck!"
"The comments he makes are the best!"
"Goblins?" Claire began, fists balled. "I hate goblins." The said creatures leaped from their positions, Jim easley cutting down the ones on his side. However, more had come from another direction, surrounding them with numerous Goblins.
"There's too many!" Nomura yelled, causing Jim to turn to his friends.
"Run!" Nomura and him followed the two, Jim slicing at an oncoming Goblin, Nomura doing the same. The two stopped, trying to lessen the number but were overwhelmed. Claire and Toby both gasped as they were cornered from one direction, causing them to run in the other direction. "Come on!"
While Jim and Nomura held up the back, Toby and Claire were once again cornered due to the excessive Goblins pouring from each direction. "Not that way! It's like a goblin rainbow of death!" Toby cried out, the team continuing to run until they hit a cliffside, no longer having an escape route.
"A dead end!" Jim yelped before he turned to the sound of the Goblins. He watched as the countless creatures had slowed down, slowly advancing. "They were herding us!"
"Herding? To what?" Claire questioned.
"Not what, who," Nomura answered. From the darkness, blue streaks of light had appeared, creating an all familiar blade.
"The bridge. You will take me there."
"Stay away from the sword. He'll put you under his control!" Nomura warned as Gunmar growled, cutting the distance from him and his prey.
"Don't worry. I have a general rule to stay away from sharp things." Toby whimpered as Nomura stepped forward, blade in hand.
"Stop toying with the children and fight one of your own kind."
"You are not my kind, impure." He swung the blade, Nomura barely avoided the sharp weapon. The sword implanted itself in the floor, stalling Gunmar and giving Nomura enough time to leap over him and try to land a hit.
As he continued to try and slice at Nomura, she leaped over and under his arm, doging every blow and attacking with her own blade. As she was thrown back, she turned to the teens, hurrying them.
"Go!" She yelled out, going back to fighting Gunmar while Jim helped his friends into the safer spot first, resulting in him being taken out by Gunmar's large and thick tail. The fight still continued, cornering the tired and recovering Trollhunter.
Nomura flipped and leaped from the harsh swing of the Decimar blade, grunting with every move. Gunmar swung again, growing closer to the Changeling and keeping her at a standstill. She used her strength to keep the blade from cutting any closer.
"You do not deserve my blade," Gunmar hissed out calmly, easily throwing her off to the side. Her body slumped against the wall when she collided, giving Gunmar enough time to lift up a large stone and crushing her leg beneath it when she tried to avoid it.
"WELL YOU DON'T DESERVE TO LIVE!"
"You guys are really feisty."
"I am a little more worried for Jim who most likely just got some serious whiplash or something. His breath is gone!"
She cried out, trying to push it off but failed miserably. Nearby, Claire had witnessed her unfortunate outcome and gasped.
"Toby, help me. We can't leave her like this."
"Or can we?" He replied but was elbowed in response. "Fine, fine." Up above, Jim recovered from his hit, trying to don his sword. The shape appeared within the smokey outline but vanished as quick as it appeared.
"This is probably another reason why she doesn't like you." Mary added as Toby folded his arms.
"I said it mostly because I know she doesn't like me. I tried to be nice." He shook his head, ignoring any looks from the Changeling.
Jim watched the screen, seeing how he had just gotten up. Was he that exhausted and pained? He wasn't looking forward to the extreme body aches. The armor only did so much which made him a little nervous.
Jim let out a gasp, backing further away from Gunmar who so eagerly stepped closer to his victim.
"I have waited centuries. Tell me... where is the bridge?" Gunmar said, cornering the boy against the cliffside. Blue lightning poured from the blade, pulling on Jim's armor. The boy cried out as his body was outlined in a blue light.
"GET UP! GET UP! GET UP! GET UP! GET UP! GET UP! GET UP!" A student cried, hands balled as he cheered Jim on to see him stand. The crowd grew a little anxious. Gunmar was trying to take his conscious and Jim was already growing weak from the excessive fighting.
"Hold out Jimmy! You got this!" Barbara listened to the kids cheer her son on while she prayed quietly to not give into Gunmar's control. Watching him fight mentally was nerve wracking, especially since his body was already so tired.
Claire gently held Jim's hand, knowing that she wanted to do something but it would have done no good. She was unarmed and would be facing Gunmar, granted, if Jim was giving in, she would push herself to at least try but she knew she had to wait for Aaarrrgghh and Blinky since they had the strength to do some damage.
"No!" Using all his power, Jim let the helmet build over his head, giving him more time to fight. His cries grew muffled but it was still clear. "No! No!"His body was pulled from the floor without his own command, fist balled as he struggled against the hold.
Gunmar soon freed him from the blade, growling as he realized the boy was stubborn to give in. "Your armor's not going to protect you for long!" Jim turned away from Gunmar, his mask opening, allowing the boy to breathe a little better.
To the side, Claire and Toby made it to Nomura's side, Toby doing his best to lift the rock enough for Claire to help slide the Changeling out from under it.
"I- I think your leg's broken."
Eli remembered the student who said setbacks shouldn't be worried about as much, he turned to the said student, "Not set them back? Hey. Kanjigar did say only bring Jim, but you know…"
"Shut up Eli."
"You think?" Nomura hissed as she struggled to stand, leaning against Claire's body for support. While Jim struggled against Gunmar, Blinky and Aaarrrgghh were running through the dark maze, determination on their faces.
Gunmar's roar echoed around them, stopping the two trolls both in their tracks. "Gunmar," Aaarrrgghh said right before Jim cried in response, alerting Blinky.
"And Master Jim," The two hurried, only to be stopped at a dead end. "Ah, blast this infernal labyrinth! Where are they?" As the two headed back from where they started, a familiar beast was finally accompanied by the roar, the long snake-like body slithering over the holes where Blinky and Aaarrrgghh just stood.
"If you do not tell me, I will turn you all! You must tell me!" Gunmar yelled, growing angier, face fully in the camera. Jim had finally sat up, backing as far as he could with his hand held up in a pointless defense.
"No!" Jim cried, finally slacking when Gunmar pulled the sword away. His chest heaved as he took the chance to breathe properly once more. To the side, all Claire, Toby, and Nomura could do was watch helplessly.
"Jim, hold on!" Claire yelled for him, hoping Blinky and Aaarrrgghh showed soon. Gunmar resumed his plan, holding the blade above Jim and weakening the boy further. Soon, the one thing giving Jim more time to hold out had vanished, leaving him in open air.
"No!" Jim groaned out, trying his hardest to fight on his own. As Jim began to slowly deflate, almost giving into Gunmar's control, Aaarrrgghh and Blinky appeared on a higher platform.
"There they are! How do we get down there?" With no reply, Aaarrrgghh leaped from the vast spike, Blinky trying to follow. "Very well." His mind changed, "Uh, nope."
Gunmar wore a grin as Jim had stopped fighting, body drained. "Now you're mine!" Right on time, Gunmar was tackled from Aaarrrgghh. Jim pushed himself up, looking at Aaarrrgghh in shock. The Dark Lord stood as Aaarrrgghh roared, "You! Traitor!"
The crowd itched for the answers, wanting to know what happened in Aaarrrrgghh's past life and how he served Gunmar. It interested them more to see what really happened between the trolls.
Angered, Aaarrrgghh didn't hold back, pushing Gunmar back while Jim took the chance and fled the area. He rejoined his friends as they helped lift Nomura up the tall hill.
"I don't know how Jim just walked that off. That boy is probably exhausted and ready to drop. After all the battles he went through, getting injured in every one and not having proper rest… This kid got smacked so hard and his soul almost sucked out of him, he's still walking. Yes, he has armor but jeez." A student mentioned.
"The boy is pushing through so he can go home. He knows if he stops to recover for just a few minutes, he risks everything. He's being selfless and a hero, I have respect for him. It's crazy to think he is even going through something like that."
Jim bit his lip, thinking about what the students were saying, he was shocked himself, he never thought he would be able to do any of this but the thoughts made him smile.
"Master Jim! Master Jim, you're alive!" Blinky said excitedly, trying to keep himself from sliding down the steep hill. Aaarrrgghh was holding his own, managing a few hits on Gunmar despite having no weapon to aid him. As Gunmar struggled to stand, Aaarrrgghh took the chance and catapulted himself onto Gunmar, keeping the troll in a hold.
However, Gunmar easily kicked the troll off, sending him across the platform, the Krubera troll looked up at the cracking stone before Gunmar had rejoined him, talking before he fought.
"Aaarrrgghh. You have gone soft. Let my blade remake you." Aaarrrgghh roared as the blade was pointed at him. With no reply, Aaarrrgghh picked up a rock, using it to smack against the Decimar blade.
"Oh, yeah! How about you put that blade right between your eyes!"
"Whoa, you guys! Chill."
"Never! You've grown old. Weaker." Aaarrrgghh hissed, holding Gunmar back.
"Guys, this team is just burning everyone. Burn served to you, burn served to you, and one to you. Oh, don't forget about you!"
"I love it!"
"Strong enough to kill you still. Would you rather die?"
"Done that," he replied, getting a hold of Gunmar's horns and throwing him into the same wall that Aaarrrgghh had collided with. Under the pressure, the stone began to crumble on top of Gunmar, burying the troll beneath the large stone.
The crowd laughs, both Jim and Toby smiling at Aaarrrgghh at the comment. They were glad he was at least a little okay with what happened to use it like that. Jim and Toby still felt bad for letting Aaarrrgghh die over something they could have handled, however, both didn't speak their mind on how they felt about it.
Toby scolded himself and the hammer for being a perfect target for Angor and Jim knew that if he just fought a little harder, his friends wouldn't risk their lives. Not like they were going to actually talk about it.
"Get him Aaarrrgghh!"
"YEAH! TELL HIM!"
Aaarrrgghh roared as his eyes cleared, Toby cheering in the background.
"Excelsior! But no time to celebrate. Let's make haste." Blinky said, reaching for Jim and Toby. Aaarrrgghh quickly rejoined them, helping them onto the higher walkway before they cleared the area.
A few seconds later, Gunmar broke free from his makeshift prison, a few Gumm-Gumms and Dicatious standing and waiting for him.
"Dark Underlord, I know where the bridge is. We need to gather the armies," the blind troll stated but GUnmar didn't hesitate to answer.
"Forget the army. We go now!" Back on land, Draal continued to pace, staring at the glowing blue bridge, growing ansty at the time that had passed.
People in the crowd winced, this would be bad. They know where the bridge is located and Gunmar isn't making any stupid decisions and wasting his time. Hopefully they didn't make it time.
"Come on! Where are you fools?" The amulet clicked before it's blue light turned to a soft pulsing red light, the same effect appearing on Jim's chest as the boy climbed a tall wall, Nomura hanging on his back as they pushed up higher.
As the team climbed, near the top, the Gumm-Gumms spotted them below, running after them. Aaarrrgghh had reached the top first, Claire and Toby hopping off. As Claire and Toby supported Blinky up, Chompsky began to chatter, pointing to the direction ahead of them.
"Okay, why wouldn't Nomura ride on Aaarrrgghh's back instead. Three can fit and I know Claire is capable of climbing. We've seen Toby climb a rope, so he is allowed on Aaarrrgghh's back."
"HEY!"
"Yeah, makes sense, especially since Nomura is injured and both Jim and Nomura were forced to fight, using all their energy and they haven't really rested."
"Almost there, guys! Gotta keep moving. Time's running out!" Below, Jim and Nomura were still climbing, Nomura trying to help support her body weight by using her sword to hold onto stones. However, one stone was unstable and broke off from the wall, Nomura's grip slipped as she yelled as she fell back, Jim crying out and catching her by the wrist.
"No!" Jim groaned out as he tried to keep a grip on the rock and Nomura, the weight pulling him down and putting pressure on his shoulder. The team gasped, growing worried as the two hung helplessly. Jim yelled out, his chest gave off a weak hum, seeming to die out.
"There's no time for this, Jimbo! We got to keep moving."
"Guys… his amulet! What does that mean!? Is it really affecting both of them?!"
"Maybe it's warning him."
"We're not leaving her!" Jim said, seeming to reject any idea of letting go of her to save themselves.
"Listen to them, little Gynt. I'm only slowing you down."
"But I- But I told you we were both getting out of here."
"It was a nice thought. I'll hold off as many of them as I can. Go!" She pulled away from his grip, falling and Jim went eye wide, his hand removing itself from the stone that kept him on the wall.
Eli raised an eyebrow, the student instantly catching at what he was getting at, "Don't say it Eli. DON'T SAY IT!"
"No!" He let out a scream and Aaarrrgghh quickly dove off the side, keeping a hold on the ledge and catching Jim within his hand.
"Jim!" Claire cried out, watching with worry. Jim grunted when he was trapped in Aaarrrgghh's grasp, reaching out as he watched Nomura descend to the guards below.
"No!" He breathed and groaned out, failing at keeping his promise. Nomura tumbled as she hit the ground, groaning in pain before she stood shakily, holding her swords out.
"Okay, boys. Let's dance." She hissed at the guards who surrounded her.
"Let me go!" Jim cried, pushing himself out of Aaarrrgghh's grasp and trying to dive back off to save Nomura. Yet, Aaarrrgghh didn't let him pass, the boy groaning and turning around in defeat. "No!" The boy followed Blinky in defeat before his name was called, his master sounding worried.
"Oh, dear. Master Jim!" The Trollhunter looked up, only to find numerous guards standing in front of them, blocking them from freedom. As they backed up, a clicking noise was heard, guards flying as the Gyre smacked against the crowd, Draal appearing within the machine.
He stopped in front of his friends, Blinky looking at him in shock. "What are you doing here?"
"Well, hi to you too. Came there to save you.
"HE MADE THE RIGHT CHOICE, EVEN IF GUNMAR IS RUNNING AROUND!"
"My father said I had a choice. This is my choice. Get in!"
"Shotgun!" Toby yelled excitedly as they all piled in.
"Let's get this thing moving!" Draal yelled before his eyes landed on Jim who wore a look of seriousness.
"Make room for one more. She's coming with us."
"DON'T SAY IT ELI! I'M WARNING YOU, MAN! DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT IT!"
"Nomura," Draal said, holding the same idea Jim was. The Gyre flew from the cliffside, rolling down the narrow pathway. Jim held out his hand from the machine, calling out for her.
"Nomura!" She perked at them, instantly catching on. She began to run, moving to the side as Jim extended his hand. Nomura lept, getting a hold on Jim as he helped pull her into the Gyre. The machine flipped from the curve, landing back on the main pathway and closer to the awaiting bridge.
They flipped and turned, sliding through the passageways before they spotted the ticking bridge,
"The bridge! It's closing!" Draal yelled as the portal began to grow unstable.
"Go, go!" Jim cried. As the amulet clicked, the hand moving a little more quicker, the beast that had been lurking throughout the Darklands hand finally appeared, blocking the Trollhunters from the exit.
"A Nyarlagroth!" Blinky said nervously as the said beast had opened its mouth, waiting to feast on the team.
"Don't stop!" Jim ordered, glaring at the beast.
"They aren't doing what I think they are doing?"
"I think they are.."
"This will do some damage!" He and Draal pushed the lever as far forward as they could, the Gyre sped through the inside of the Nyarlagroth right before it busted through the side of the creature, the body growing stiff before it plunged into the darkness below.
"Do some damage? You shot out from it's insides… That is more than just some damage…"
"Oh, that is gross." Mary gagged, turning to the side.
"If anyone is counting, that is like the third one that either died or was injured because of Jim and or the team. You guys really hate Nyarlagroth."
"They seem so feared and they just took down two!"
"Faster! It's closing!" Claire yelped before the Gyre disappeared into the bridge, instantly appearing on the other side, smashing through the artifact. The Gyre crashed into a nearby stone, stopping it in its tracks as everyone on board cried at the impact.
It was still and quiet within the clearing, everyone on the Gyre had been thrown about, catching their breath in the fresh morning air of Arcadia. Jim lifted his head, smiling back at his peers as the sun gently combed through the trees.
"Whew!" Nearby, the boy collapsed onto his knees, taking in the grass and everything around him. He breathed out, laying on his back and sucking in as much air as he could. With a smile, Jim opened his eyes and laughed, missing the feeling.
Everyone smiled and cheered, the student body clapping while Vendel nodded in approval. They all finally relaxed at the sight of Jim being home and it excited them.
"What if Gunmar got out."
"COME ON BRO! WHY DID YOU RUIN THE MOMENT!?"
"Guys, JIM'S LAUGH IS SO FRICKEN PERFECT AND ADORABLE!"
Beside him, Draal smiled at Nomura who stepped beside him, holding out an arm as he said, "Hi." The Changeling smiled, taking his arm as he walked her over to a stone, getting her off of her broken leg.
Toby gasped, looking at Claire and Jim in shock, "we got some love birds!" Behind them, Nomura and Draal shifted uncomfortably, all eyes falling on them.
"I KNEW IT!" The trollhunting team stared down Draal who rubbed the back of his head.
"How have we not seen any of the signs?!" Blinky yelled out and Draal rubbed his hands together.
"Nothing happened between us, she is a Changeling, alright.."
"Pfft, yeah whatever you say." Darci snorted, her and Toby fist bumping.
"I know one thing for certain." Blinky started, he and Toby still in the Gyre as they held onto each other, scarred from the journey. "I hope to never see the likes of that bridge ever again." Toby breathed out, trying to form words as they watched Aaarrrgghh punch the bridge, letting it crumble.
"Awesome sauce!" Toby said as Aaarrrgghh gave him a thumbs up. Before Aaarrrgghh could blink, he was surrounded and pulled into a group hug, everyone rejoicing the moment.
"Master Jim!
"Jim! You're home!"
"It's so, so good to see you guys!" Jim said, smiling as he looked at Claire who held his arm. Gently, he pulled away, turning to Nomura who hadn't looked at the sweet moment, feeling awkward. "You want in?"
"That's not my thing. Thank you, little Gynt. I have to hand it to you, you were right."
"About what?"
"Hope. Friends." She answered and Jim couldn't help but smile. Beside him, Blinky had picked up the amulet from the pile, handing it to the boy.
"HE TOLD YOU SO!"
"I believe this belongs to you, Master Jim." Jim took it, keeping his smile as the amulet rejoined it's other half. A blue ball of smoke lifted Jim from the air, transforming him back into his usual white armor.
"Feels good to have this back," he mumbled and smiled at Blinky before stepping past him and to a nearby rock. Inspecting it, the boy smiled before he pushed himself to climb up. Once Jim reached the top, he was surrounded in the beautiful morning skies.
Feeling free, the boy breathed out before he was tackled in a hug from Claire. Jim's excitement grew as she mumbled to him, "I missed you." She pulled away, the two sharing a deep connection as they stared at one another.
"OH MY FREAKING GOD! ¡CONCHA DE SU MADRE! ES REAL! JLAIRE IS MOTHER FLIPPIN' REAL!" A young female named Thalina screamed, standing with her arms in the air. Mary and Darci joined in with her, supporting their friend who finally had gotten a boyfriend.
"AHHHHHHHH! FINALLY! JLAIRE IS CANON! I CAN DIE HAPPILY NOW! YOU CAN KILL ME NOW STRICKLER!" QueenSaphireRose360 yelled, turning to Strickler who looked shocked at what she said.
"Uh, I think that might be a little excessive…" Strickler said nervously. The young female waved him off, her excitement never dying.
Javier smiled lightly, lightening up. His daughter was really happy around him, it made him happy as well.
Jim and Claire flinched when Toby began to celebrate, his voice loud. Jim smiled before holding his and Claire's conjoined hands up, the crowd going silent.
"Wait, you guys are….. Right now?" Claire nodded and smiled. The kids who supported their relationship had celebrated again, Claire and Jim's closest friends gaping at the fact that they didn't tell them.
"NOTHING CAN RUIN THIS NOW!" Barbara smiled as she looked at her son who now was showing a little more affection with Claire, the two already a match made in Heaven.
Jim pressed his hand against her cheek, smiling before something ran through him, without thinking, he and Claire leaned forward, their lips connecting and the passion electrified them, the moment perfect as they shared their first true kiss.
"Whoa," Toby breathed as Aaarrrgghh smiled, covering his and Toby's eyes.
"Mm-mm. Private." That was until Aaarrrgghh peaked through the crack of his fingers, even Chompsky covering his eyes.
Beside them, Draal gagged, "Ugh! A savage custom."
"Excuse me, a beautiful savage custom!" A student laughed at what the trolls had called kissing and how much they despised it.
"Absolutely." Normura added. The two upon the rock pulled away, Jim still holding his smile.
"I missed you too."
Claire smiled, hand dragging down his cheek, "You've also missed a few showers." Jim let out a chuckle, knowing what she meant.
"Let's get rid of this bridge once and for all," Blinky yelled from down below, holding up a stone.
"Ha!" Toby laughed, pulling away from Aaarrrgghh's hand. "Just wait until Trollmarket gets a load of Jim and Aaarrrgghh! Oh, no! The Tribunal! They're gonna go crazy town banana pants when they find out what we've been up to!"
"Frankly, who cares? We have our Trollhunter back." Blinky answered, gesturing up to Jim who looked back at Claire, the two smiling and chuckling lightly.
The scene changed, Jim standing nervously outside his house and hesitantly reaching out towards the door handle. He lightly turned the knob before he was yanked forward, his mother waiting on the other end, upset.
"Excuse me, where have you been? You can't just vanish for a whole day without calling! I've been worried sick-." While she ranted, tears pooled in Jim's eyes, the boy rushed forward and tackled his mother in a hug, refusing to let her go. "Oh! Oh-. Oh. I-I guess it was only a day." She mumbled, holding him close as he blinked the tears away.
"I'm pretty sure Jim just almost crapped himself because he thought she meant for the whole time he was gone." A student laughed while Barbara frowned, he probably was not checked out properly, and he had been gone for so long, being hurt without Barbara's knowledge.
He was only gone for a day to her. And that was her son.
"This is so cute! Yes, end this with love!" Jim turned his mother, catching her frown. He knew what she was thinking and it hurt him. She knew he wanted to tell her, she knew his reasoning and she still cheered him on, he just hated lying to her.
He could have died and she wouldn't have known. He kissed Claire's forehead before standing and dragging his mother out of her seat.
"Jim, what are you doing?" She asked but the boy led her to his own seat, moving to the side for her to sit with him. She smiled and placed herself between Toby and Jim, enough room to be comfortable.
"Stay here." He mumbled, leaning against her as if he was a small child searching for his mother's cuddles. Barbara kissed his haid, wrapping an arm around him before looking at Claire and Toby who watched the moment.
"Come here you guys, thank you for saving him." The two teens smiled, Toby laying against Barbara while Claire cuddled with Jim, all making room to spend the happy moment.
The crowd awed as Barbara smiled, buried beneath her favorite children, she felt at ease and comfortable. Blinky watched the moment with a happy smile, relaxing to see such happy faces. Behind them, Steve and Eli smiled, saying nothing.
"It's just good to be home, Mom." He replied, burying his face within her tender hug. As Barbara and Jim shared their sweet moment, a stray leaf blew outside, passing through the rays of the sun, keeping the moment tender.
"YES IT IS!"
That was until the leaf landed within the woods, stopping in a small crater resembling a foot. The camera panned out, revealing a trail of footprints and a very familiar figure slowly stomping through the woods.
Gunmar was free.
"Wait, Gunmar is free?!" Shannon squeaked out, the crowd's jaws all dropped to the floor. Despite being comfortable in his mother's arms, Jim and the rest of the Trollhunters had tensed, panicking.
"Eli! DON'T SA-"
"I TOLD YOU SO!" Eli yelled out, holding his head, "Gunmar is free, this is the end of the world, we are all doomed."
"Yes, I fear dark times are upon us," Vendel stated, turning to look at Jim. "I trust our Trollhunter will handle it. A few lives will be lost but I have faith that he will be victorious."
"It was such a happy ending! What the heck!"
"OJETE! YOU LITTLE PIECE OF CACA!" A young female by the name of Liz spoke, the students turning to her shocked as her first words were filled with rage. Javier understood her fully, shocked that she even knew words like that.
"Guys… Gunmar is really free." A student mumbled before the theater erupted in full chaos.