AN: How the story stats got broken again. Crud. I heard about this New Year glitch. However, I don't know how it really happened (something have to do with change in server) and I don't know when they are going to fix it. However, it will eventually get by later, but hopefully not TOO late. But good news! Managed to upload a chapter for two stories today! One here and one on my other story 'Five Nights at Freddy's - Security Breach, Shades Up'!
Welcome back to another episode of Voice of Rebels, everyone! So, with the start of crime in TrollsTopia, let's see how this will increase in town. Buckle up!
Recommended Songs
[1] Diamonds Are A Girl's Best Friend (Instrumental Cover) - The Hit Crew (Repeat 0:22 - 1:06)
[2] Treat You Better - Shawn Mendes
[3] Good To Be Alive (Instrumental) - CG5
- [3a] (Repeat 0:00 - 0:06)
- [3b] (Repeat 0:39 - 0:57)
[4] Sugar Honey Ice Tea - OR3O (Repeat 0:00 - 0:45)
[5] Antisocial (Ed Sheeran and Travis Scott Instrumental) - WeskoBeats (Repeat 0:05 - 1:59)
'Playing with the Matches' Part 1 - Don't Pop My Bubble
1:00 am
You know that most people would often leave early in the morning when going off a holiday or trying to get to the airport in time. It would be somewhere around 5 or 6 am. Like you have to check again that you have everything with you, seeing if you prepared all of your luggages and see if you brought all your basic essentials into your pocket. To top it off, you would already have plans next, so you just have to worry about what you have to bring.
However, this is the opposite for Jazzy. [1]
She has no idea of what is going to happen when she gets to Pilot.
It might not even be Pilot Diamond who is behind all of this.
When she wakes up REALLY early in the morning - since the trip to where Pilot's hideout might be at would be very long - she has to drag herself out of bed. She thought that after a rough night, she would end up miserable. However, she feels and looks really grumpy and it SHOWS.
She tries to get everything ready while trying not to humiliate herself.
She doesn't know how long she is going to be out, so she grabbed her backpack. She used one whenever she went out on missions when she worked back as a bounty hunter. A few clothes, some weapons - including her Cherry Bomber and her cane - a few cupcakes Poppy tend to leave on all of the Trolls' footstep and a few sanitary items. For sanitary items, she will technically be in the wild, but as a Swing Troll, she yearns a bit of dignity to smell nice.
It took her a while to get herself out of the room because due to spending so much time in a shelter after months of not going out for camping, she had to drag herself. To the bathroom where she splashed water all over her face to make herself awake, to try to make breakfast and resorted to eating cereal, to making coffee…which ends up burning her feet when she spills it.
By the time she comes out, she finds Hickory right outside, seemingly with nothing. Leaning against a stray tree branch nearby.
"Where is your stuff?" asked the Chess Master.
"I have all my stuff ready!" said Hickory.
"Where is it?"
Hickory just pointed at himself. "Right here."
Jazzy snorted. "You don't have any-"
She was proven wrong when Hickory pulled out two bulky tools from his pants. They weren't even sticking out from it!
"...right, you have a lot of pockets," said Jazzy, dumbfounded.
Hickory smirked as he placed his tools back in, making them seemingly disappear. "Yep. That's so."
Jazzy sighed. "Anyway, you know where Pilot may be hiding?"
Hickory nodded and took out a map of the entire Troll kingdom. This one looked like Poppy except that it was much bigger and showed the entire world. There were several scribbles and notes all over it.
"The last time I heard about Pilot Diamond and his gang," said Hickory. "He should be right around the outskirts of Lonesome Flats." He pointed at the land of the Country Trolls except on the outer borders where there was nothing else but desert land. "He has a lot of homes, but he mostly likes to reside in the place called 'Indie Wasteland'."
"Indie Wasteland?" repeated Jazzy, stroking her chin. "I've…never been there before. I don't mix around with the dirty hobos there."
Since the Chess Master never resided in other villages before, she had no idea what Indie Wasteland was like. She heard that it was a large undercity where it was nearly chaos. There was a sort of order there, but most of the goods sold would be earned through black market or missions. It was a city of crime there with the best mercenaries and the worst. A lot of her clients tried to call her to come there, but she refused, more on living outside than using somebody else's luxury.
"It should be an easy trip there," commented Hickory. "All we need to do is to get to Lonesome Flats and then walk across the desert to get there."
"And if we get thirsty due to lack of water?" asked Jazzy.
"I don't know. I was hoping you brought water over."
Jazzy narrowed her eyes.
Hickory chuckled. "I am kidding you. I already got my own supply. Or am I? Well, the desert can have water puddles and water underneath the ground at certain spots."
Jazzy rolled her eyes. "So, should we hike there or should we steal a cab?"
"Nah," said Hickory. "There is already a balloon ride to Lonesome Flats. I managed to book two seats for us since they are leaving very early in 30 minutes or 1 hour. A lot of Country Trolls taking around resources and stock for marketing between the two villages."
"Would they mind us?" asked Jazzy. "The people sound like it is for only those who are trading or in the marketing business should only be on the balloon."
Hickory snorted. "I already got my old tricks up my sleeve."
Jazzy thought he meant he was going to charm the people in charge of riding the balloon, but when he took out a bag that seemed to be filled with pennies, she changed her mind.
"When you have been a bounty hunter for so long…" said Hickory.
"Then you learn how to be prepared," finished Jazzy, remembering the quote. [1s]
Poppy's Home, 8 am
After last night, Branch should be confident about him and Poppy training and letting their new law enforcers protect TrollsTopia. Since they knew that there would be criminals around, the first thing they did before the sub-tribes arrived was asking people around if they were willing to take up a job of risking their life to protect their fellow Trolls. It took a while, but there were already a good handful of Trolls spread around TrollsTopia to watch for their people. Even if they might not be on duty. [2]
The downside is that the only Pop Trolls willing to be enforcers are the Snack Pack. Branch isn't sure if it is due to them being loyal to Poppy or wanting to be brave, but there is a sense of dread to that.
Sure, they all went through two times of getting into major danger. This includes being attacked and chased after Bergans, being invaded by the Rock Trolls and trying to stop the conflict between tribes, and nearly being eaten or killed alive. In an otherwise painful death. However, that really didn't change a thing. Not even to Branch who is still nervous about everything.
And a lot of doubt.
He is fine that the other ambassadors are training theirs since they might be competent. But for his tribe when it comes to things outside of partying? Not so much. However, it seems that they seem to be slowly growing a spine. Especially Biggie after his experience on the World Tour and him pointing out Poppy's flaws during it. DJ Suki is becoming more on-hands lately. Well, maybe Smidge might be good at handling hefty things and the twins can use their conjoined hairs. However, Branch has yet to see the rest of the guys' abilities in this task.
Poppy believes that they will do well, but Branch isn't sure to take her word for now. Right now, he is trying to finish up two pieces of wholegrain toast while Poppy is attempting to make a huge milkshake in the blender.
The light blue Troll stared at his toast. It already looked pathetic due to how long he left it out uneaten for. Soggy due to the water excess from the hot steams. It turned out to be tasteless and it might have gone stale at this point. It would taste better if it was another type of bread or if he managed to grill it with butter or jam. But they ran out of jam a long time ago.
Branch starts to think to himself as he watches Poppy clumsily place ingredients inside the blender. A full bar of chocolate and a full box of raspberries. A few lava berries from the Rock Trolls.
At this point, he wonders if he should ask her any questions. However, they are in this together.
He decides to be more open for a while.
"Erm…Poppy…" said Branch as he tried to swallow a mouthful of his toast. "I'm…a little nervous today."
"Why's that?" asked Poppy.
"I know that…we talked about this before, but please remind me. With the choice of having the Snack Pack as some of our main enforcers, would that be a good idea?"
Poppy smiled. "I trust in them that they will protect our home. They're my friends. They are strong."
"I…I don't know," hesitated Branch. "It's just that…they are simple Trolls like us. Do you think that…they may not be able to face the danger?"
Poppy looks embarrassed, turning to Branch while still placing ingredients in the blender. "Well…sometimes our strengths lie beneath the surface. Some of them don't really know when to dig in deep to get them. But…I'm sure that the Snack Pack is the very solid hard part of the cupcake that is crunchy and delicious!"
Branch chuckled weakly. "Well, it looks really crispy outside already ever since that fire died down in Country Corral. I can't really say for sure how much we need to put it out soon."
"Don't be nervous," said Poppy. "We are giving them help and training and experience of how to be the most protective people in the world!"
"I know, but you know how the Snack Pack reacts to some of my ways. They would want more flash and stuff like that."
Poppy felt awkward for a sudden, but then, she thought back to her experience. "Well, there was no doubt that I learnt a lot from you, did I?"
Branch blinked before nodding slowly. "Yes? And?"
"And the others are starting to understand you more," said Poppy. "I have more in common with them then you do with them, but let's just say that there will be a time when they learn and use it for a greater use. They'll come by; I know so."
Branch stared at Poppy for a while. He doesn't know if Poppy may trust her friends too much or actually knows that they will learn since technically, they are already all adults. However, he knows that he can't rush it. And like Delta told him, they will go through it somehow.
"I'll take your word for now," said Branch before taking a bite in his toast. "Gosh, I think I lost my appetite."
Poppy smiled as she placed the blender lid on. "Not to worry. Because this one will enhance your taste buds!"
Branch stared at the contents inside the blender. It is filled with several different items of savoury, sweet and plant food. And he swears that he saw a pair of undies inside it.
"Are you sure that is all edible?" he asked.
"Don't worry!" reassured Poppy as she pressed the 'on' button. "It is a really good idea from the leaders! I followed all their steps and-"
SWWWWWWWWWWWSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSHHHHH!
Unfortunately, she underestimated how powerful her blender is OR how much it can hold. At first, all the ingredients inside are mixed up nicely since she added in liquid. But the main problem is how much she added in as the 'milkshake' is starting to rise and lift the lid upwards. As a result, it starts to spill out, making a mess all over the table.
"Poppy!" said Branch, his eyes widening. "Turn it off! It's going to be overloaded!"
"I'm trying to!" said Poppy, desperately trying to turn it on and off, but the blender seemed to have a mind of its own.
The two can only watch helplessly as the blender went absolutely nuts before the entire milkshake inside exploded and spread all over the place. At this point, it is hard to tell if it is really a milkshake, turning into a weird pinkish brown color. Like a mud bomb, it covered the entire kitchen, even covering Branch and Poppy from head to toe.
The blender finally stopped, sputtering out.
"Well, that went well," said Branch, unfazed.
Poppy sighed. "I think I need to check back on Barb on this one. These guys have been going crazy ever since they started doing random pranks last week."
"I think it kind of symbolizes what is going on now," muttered Branch sarcastically as he tossed away the remaining toast in the bin. "It's a bit of a mess around in TrollsTopia."
"Aww!" mewled Poppy as she went over to her lover. "Oh you. It's a good mess isn't. Not all the flavors mixed, but tasting it all in one means something worthwhile, doesn't it?"
Using her fingers, she wiped some of the milkshake off Branch's face and placed them into his mouth. The latter scoffed a little as he smirked and tried to gulp the sweet-salty milkshake through his throat. It doesn't taste bad, but it tastes really weird like a two-week-old banana.
"Let's not put this in your scrapbook, alright?" said Branch. "I don't want to be sprinkled with goo."
"Don't worry," said Poppy with a smile. "It will just be glitter!"
"Naturally," said Branch, shrugging.
He tried to lean in and peck a kiss on Poppy's cheek, but he did it at the worst spot. His lips touched a dark spot. It tasted like eggplant!
He nearly choked himself, wiping his mouth. Poppy, seeing this, chuckled to herself.
"Oh, I forgot," she said. "I tried using all of the vegetables."
"Don't some of them taste awful?" spluttered Branch.
"...they're good for your health!"
KNOCK! KNOCK!
Someone was waiting outside their (new and fixed) door. Immediately, Poppy and Branch quickly shook themselves and smacked their clothes to get most of the milkshake off them. They couldn't clean the kitchen, but at least it was out of site at that spot. Quickly, Poppy grabbed Branch's hand and dragged him over to the door, making sure that both of them didn't have a trace of milkshake on them.
"So…erm…Branch," said Poppy. "There are a few new people who are joining the law enforcers."
"Why's that?" asked Branch.
"Let's just say please be on your good behavior with them as this is NOT the time to be squabbling."
"What can really happen?"
Yeah, about that… [2s]
There was DJ Suki and…
Creek.
Branch froze.
What?
WHAT?!
Out of everyone, he didn't expect to see CREEK joining the law enforcers. Not that coward. So, how come that no-good, life-stealing, two-face, butt-kissing, snitchy son of a traitor is right up to his door and is about to get a good BUTT-WHOOPING?!
"Uh…hello?" said Creek, waving a hand in front of Branch's eyes. "Is anybody home?"
Branch realized how long he had been staring for. He quickly shook his head to focus. It seemed that he and DJ Suki were already wearing their uniforms.
Both wore the same police hats that were currently in a blue color, an orange safety vest that is filled with pockets of pens, little gadgets and party noisemakers, a pinned fun golden badge, a white shirt underneath that had sleeves that matched their signature/skin colors and black boots. The only thing that made them distinct is that both of them are wearing their signature pants and Suki has her headphones wrapped around her neck…along with a new nose ring.
Seriously? When did Suki get the time to have a nose ring from the Rock Trolls this morning?!
"Hi!" said Creek cooly, taking out something from underneath his hat. "I got a present for one of you two."
Branch is right in the head to be confused. "I'm sorry. WHAT?"
Poppy laughed a little. "Sorry, Branch. I…I didn't tell you about it."
"Wait, you didn't?" said Suki, raising an eyebrow.
"Well, it just happened last night and Creek sent in his resume," admitted Poppy while scratching her head. "I immediately accepted it, but I decided to…not tell Branch since we were having a good time."
Branch glared at her. "Whether or not I am having a good time, please don't tell lies behind my back!"
"But we are still short in numbers! Creek is probably one of the last people who need to fill in the gap! I couldn't really disappoint you if we aren't fully prepared like how you want it to be."
"My disappointment does not matter if you didn't lie to me, dummy," groaned Branch, face-palming.
Poppy frowned. She knew it was a complicated choice to have Creek coming over. She tried to convince him to just stay out of it, but in the end after looking through Creek's abilities, she decided to give him one shot. She is as tired as Branch is for having him over, but they have to cut corners since criminals are already pouring in. And she isn't sure if she is hallucinating, but the last time Poppy saw Creek (well, in a dream during the World Tour), he seemed to have wisen up himself.
"Well…" she started.
But Branch isn't listening. "What are your reasons for joining us, Creek?"
Creek chuckled. "Just trying out new hobbies after all we've been through. And it turns out, meditation classes aren't really good in TrollsTopia or give enough budget for me to go by."
"How come?" Branch swears that he often sees a lot of Pop Trolls lined up at Creek's workplace.
"You tell me. Ever since TrollsTopia was created, I can't handle all the Rock Trolls. They are the worst in being controlled and have a lot of repressive ideas."
"That shouldn't sound like a problem," muttered Suki jokingly.
"What did you say?"
"Nothing."
"And your motives, Creek?" questioned Branch, crossing his arms.
Creek shrugged. "TrollsTopia has been in a tizzy ever since that fire. I thought of helping out. You know that I used to be the troll who is the most positive, supportive and reassuring. And I am good at attracting a lot of attention."
Branch mockingly laughed. "That is so rich. The last time you created attention, you nearly sold out our tribe!"
Creek frowned. "No one is saying what I did was right."
"How am I supposed to know that you aren't going to betray us to the criminals again?!"
"And would you rather just accept a simple act of forgiveness than letting your whole town burn?"
Branch was about to fire back at that, but he stopped. Poppy even wants to say something about that, but Creek just managed to shoot something at them. As the two start to think of a comeback, the purple Troll makes no waste of time to comment on this.
"Just as I thought," he said, looking rather bored. "If we don't have enough law enforcers, then crime may get out of control more than you think. I'm your only hope since there aren't other Pop Trolls who are physically or mentally fit to take the task at least with a bit of bravery."
"If you are so brave, then you have to prove it to us," said Poppy finally.
"And how do you propose that?" It isn't really a question. Creek just blurts it out randomly.
"Then you have to trust us if you really want us to trust you. You took away your value for us and now we would have to take it back."
Branch and Suki nod in agreement to this. Poppy has every right to be this firm towards Creek. Even if he tries to worm his way out with something 'reasonable'. His betrayal hits Poppy the hardest and she would just see him as another Troll than a part of her friend circle. She doesn't want to make the same mistake again as much as Branch doesn't want to.
Creek took a deep breath, taking time to at least calm himself down a little in case of anything.
He smiled a little. "Alright then. Deceit is useless after all. I pinky promise."
Branch tries to find any sort of lie in his smile. It is hard since Creek is known to make girls fall on their knees and be really charming to make it look like he is really trustworthy. However, to his surprise, he nearly looks like the type of smile the Rock Trolls like to make. There is no deception, but there is some sort of mischief in his eyes. He looks a little more carefree than being reserved.
What is his angle?
"Anyway," said Creek, changing the topic. "You haven't checked my new present."
Branch narrowed his eyes. "Is it a bomb?"
"No?"
"Is it a trap?"
"No. There are no strings attached."
"Is it a cookie?"
"Why?"
"You must have poisoned it."
"Don't be afraid!" reassured Creek, shaking the purple large box around. "I promise it won't bite."
Suki looks unamused. "What if it's just an old telescope or a rusty boot?"
"That isn't what I am thinking," said Poppy.
Branch rolled his eyes and snatched Suki's headphones. The latter yelped and tried to reach in to grab them, but Branch is already taking action. Carefully, he held onto one of the cups and used the other one to lift the lid up. Slowly and gently…he looked back at Creek, having dreamy eyes.
Immediately, he threw the lid off, making it fly off and hitting the ground below the high level.
Suki snatched back her headphones from Branch. "Geez, my prized possessions are not a can opener."
"I just have to be sure," said Branch as he took a look inside the box.
He isn't sure if he is tripping or still asleep, but the item inside the box is REALLY amazing.
It is one clothing unit, but there is something spectacular about it. Folded and ironed nicely, it is a black cloak that appeared to be a cape since it has no arm sleeves. It has a hood and pockets inside. The entire cloak is decorated with golden, geometric triangular details, making it look like something from the Funk Trolls. But the most stunning thing is that there is a GALAXY on the inside of the cape.
A space pattern on the inside of the cape in rich colors of blue, purple and pink. White stars of different sizes shine from inside. The surprising thing? It looks like a slowly moving video of space and even though it is quite still, it continues to move. It is as if the stars are moving on their own without being printed into the cloak.
Poppy's eyes shone and touched the inside of the cloak. She thought that it was a portal, but she only felt the soft fabric of the cloak. The space pattern is just moving on its own.
"W-Where did you get this?" asked Branch.
Creek smirked. "I have my own ways…"
Exactly 30 minutes ago…
Bruce is by himself in the forest. As Grunge won't be giving him another task until later, he gets to have free time. Since he would be dead if he is caught, he found a good place outside that is far away from the public. And it's oh so quiet and private. This would mean a good thing for him; the perfect time to practice his favorite musical number.
Orchestrating the symphony.
Being a Classical Troll, Bruce knows how to do so by instructing the instrument players on when is their turn, what notes they should reach, setting the tempo and denoting the changes. He once learnt how to conduct a symphony. It is not always easy as it does not come naturally. It takes a good deal of practice and heart to get it all right. A simple young Troll can't pick up being a conductor without learning for years.
It is a good thing that Bruce picked up that talent or else he wouldn't have any other music in him! He has to admit; he missed the good old days of doing music. His loved life as a criminal may fill him up, but there is something treasuring about being a conductor. It is like he is the one in control for once with all the creative things.
He swings the stick around dramatically, making a lot of grunting and pretending to say out loud orders to the players.
In reality, he is just waving his stick around to an audience of not-moving rocks that have music book stands near them.
There is barely any harmony at all.
There are only crickets and the wind blowing.
The grunts Bruce is making are just…random.
The only amazing sound is that there are no amazing sounds.
"C'mon, everyone!" cheered Bruce in his fantasy. "Give those high keys right there!"
A music stand tipped over by the wind.
In the bushes, Creek watches nearby.
"This is so sad," he thought to himself.
And that is when he spots the purple box right behind Bruce.
Without changing his expression, Creek slowly creeps up towards it, grabs it and then books it before he gets caught. Bruce just continues to pretend without noticing that he had a player who stole something from him.
Creek smiled to himself. "Yeah…"
Branch blinked, dumbfounded. He isn't sure if he should ask, but something tells Branch that Creek did something risky or dangerous to get that expensive cloak. Did Creek actually killed a guy to take something like this?
"It looks really great," commented Poppy. "But I usually like to wear dresses more than being mysterious."
"Oh, I know you don't mind it," said Creek before turning to Branch. "But does he want to wear it?"
Branch stared at Creek like a deer under headlights. "You…wear…me…that cloak?" [2]
"You want him to wear it?" asked Poppy.
"Why me, Creek?"
"I thought of wearing it," explained Creek. "But it doesn't really fit my zen. So, I thought it should suit Branch the most! It looks mysterious and futuristic." Creek looks back at the cloak. "But it's not really too edgy and I think it would symbolize Branch for who he is."
It is clear that he didn't give it to Branch as a joke, but the reason why Creek would want to share something that looks a little too much on the top is anyone's guess. Probably because Branch has a more perceptive and realistic view of the world than any of the Pop Trolls? Or does he have an interest in watching the stars? Well, Branch isn't always interested in looking at the night sky since it reminds him too much of the danger that lurks in the dark. He takes out the cloak and it all unfolds. It should probably fit his size and it reaches up to his ankles. However, he is hesitant.
"This is a trick," he said.
"It's not really a trick," said Creek honestly. "I just found it and I think you should have it."
"But why me? You know out of everyone, I should be the least likely to have something like this."
"I know that you've been constantly worried about everything and that you aren't exactly always on good terms with the other tribes, but since you are technically in second-in-command and being more flexible, I thought you deserve something like this."
Branch snorted. "That last part was a bluff. I'm not really bendy."
"But it can be put to good use," said Creek.
"Where did this come from anyway? Who has it before?"
Creek thought for a while before looking inside the box. "Honestly, I don't really know where it came from. It came from someone called…" He took out a tag and read it. "...the…Blue Moon Seeker? It is said on this card that it is left behind by him and he was…hoping that it would be placed in the hands of a worthy descendent?"
Branch frowned. "Then maybe it would be best that we give it to someone else."
"Nah," said Suki, already taking a liking to the cloak. "You keep it. If nobody is hunting down for it, you can wear it."
Branch turns to Poppy as if asking for her answer. However, she keeps looking at the space-filled cloak and back at Branch. Her eyes are already sparkling from how cool the cloak looks. In her mind, she is thinking how it might be a nice fit for Branch since it might make him look more professional. It even goes along with his true colors! To say the least, it might make him look more handsome…
That last thought causes Poppy to blush and she quickly hides her cheeks with her hands.
When Branch sees that Poppy is unable to give him a good answer, it is just up to him on whether he wants it or not. He looks back at Creek who is just patiently waiting. He isn't sure if this is a trap. However, since Creek doesn't seem interested in having this cloak, he might as well take it.
Besides, a small part of him couldn't help but admit that it looks so nice.
Branch rolled his eyes and folded the cloak nicely. "Fine. I'll take it. Happy now?"
Creek made a small smile. "A little annoyed, aren't you?"
"Just give us a second, guys," said Poppy. "We'll get changed."
Suki sniffed. "Wait, why do I smell eggplant?"
But Poppy already closed the door. She turned to Branch, looking ashamed.
"I'm sorry, Branch, about this," she said. "Maybe if-"
Branch sighed, giving her a sharp eye. "Just…keep an eye out. Don't fall easily."
Poppy nodded before looking at the cloak. "I think you would look nice in that cloak."
"Nah," said Branch. "I…don't feel like wearing it today. Let's get changed, shall we?"
An idea bulb went over Poppy's head.
"Ooh!" she said. "You know that I've been packing and getting a lot of new clothes recently?"
"Mmm-hmm," grunted Branch. "From me. I don't really trust the people giving me those new clothes."
"Maybe it would be nice if we could wear them for a change? I want to have some new style in TrollsTopia!"
Branch shakes his head. "I don't think any of them would fit really great." [2s]
Finn's Pod
The three remaining Trolls living in Jazzy's pod woke up to have really different thoughts. Due to what happened last night, there would be a lot going through their minds after thinking about the fire that happened, the new sub tribes and the circumstances of their new environment.
Bastille feels rubbish. [3a]
The second he woke up, he thought he was still in paradise. The new room he has that he tried to decorate for his own liking. It is all colored in several different colors that look pretty crazy, but he is quite reserved in things. All in neon highlights with noticeable dark spots here and there. He isn't able to place all his belongings on the shelves yet, only able to place clothes there instead of putting some of his personal possessions around properly on display. It looks like a college student's messy bedroom who hasn't bothered to clean it.
He looked around and felt a little calm. However, when he remembers that he is living under the same roof as Charleston, he realizes what they agreed to do last night.
Going out to help defuse the rise of crime in TrollsTopia.
The coming rise of crime.
Bastille groaned as he fell back into his bed. He is still unsure about it. He took a look at his window. Sunlight is pouring in but he barely sees anyone coming in. However, as if on instinct, he knew that a criminal could come in and then steal some of his pennies. He doesn't want that to happen to him. He doesn't want to be taken advantage of, just because he is feeling lazy. Charleston is right.
But what is he going to do about it? He isn't sure if he has the heart to fully commit to helping out or be a vigilante. That is not what he wants to do. But however, his sense of justice tells him that if there is trouble outside, then that means they have to stop it. Maybe fighting off bad guys might help him feel more alive again, but will it really help? What if he doesn't have the right motivation for this? He doesn't want to be hurt, but he doesn't want to be burnt out.
"What is wrong with me?" he groaned. He tried dragging himself off the bed, but ended up flopping off and landing on his face. He let out another groan, feeling his hair being messed up. [3as]
Charleston feels great. [4]
When she wakes up, she feels as if it is another day. At first, she thought that she was back in her own bedroom, but no. She is still in a new home. Must be because of how sugary the wind smells now and how colorful it is outside. However, her room looks like something that is an old-timey school project back in the really old days. All colored golden brown with black fancy patterns by Jazzy's choice. She has managed to place all of her possessions everywhere, though maybe too much. Some of them littered all the shelves that looked like they were going to fall off. There are some school awards, but most of the items are pictures…of her getting on the wrong end of others.
She looks to the side to see that one of them is a picture of her running from a literally ax-crazy guy.
She laughs a little. That time, she was so afraid. But now, she is confident. She is really eager to take part of the action in stopping the incoming criminals. Her own good sense of justice screams at her to go out and stop them before they can lay a finger on anybody. She has had some experiences before; she survived the World Tour for God's sake! She passed through her classes that covered the topics of criminology and law, thus making her a potential detective! Even if she is not in the leader circle, she could do anything!
Though, she remembers back to what Bastille told her. She needs to be careful and she is reminded that she shouldn't assume that much. But…this doesn't really relate to what is going on now, does it? Criminals don't care if she is nice. This isn't like a happy, sappy fairy tale where everyone gets along. Those criminals can be hard to change at all. Finn is a bit of a different example. He would eventually mean well, right? Right? It is only the bad-looking, dangerous criminals she has to look out for. That would be it.
"Should be a matter of time now to start," she said to herself as she leaped out of bed. [4s]
Finn feels kind of lost. [5]
When he wakes up, he notes how much his room has changed compared to his old home in Techno Reef. As naturally, he has his blinds down. He is still not used to the sunlight. His whole body provides illumination in the dark room, so he can see well. It is mostly a neon-colored room that is neat and tidy. He is a bit of a neat freak. He doesn't really have any pictures up or awards or something like that. Instead, album covers are placed neatly on the shelves. Every one of them would be some of his own songs or include songs he is featured on or remixed.
Snorting a little with his invisible nose, he can't help but remember that as the DJ Electro Ray, he is known for his classic style. No one can resist that, right?
He feels a little lonely. Usually, he would wake up and see if Jazzy would be up or vice versa. However, he realizes that she isn't around. She already left. Everything became…soundless since she left earlier this morning. Even if he didn't see her leave. It made him feel a little empty. Now, he is home alone with two strangers he only knew for a day. And who knows what kind of weird things they are going to do around him. Probably for the worst.
Finn doesn't really want anyone around him. Bastille and Charleston are nice enough, but maybe they shouldn't be around him. However, the latter is just as annoying as everyone else he knows before. But inside, he doesn't really want to let her or Bastille down. He has been making progress, but it never really left him. He doesn't want to drag them into his own insecurity. And above all, he is scared about what will happen to him if the criminals succeed. He wishes that Jazzy would be here for him.
No. It is his job now to take care of the house. He has to look after himself. Handling two young Trolls two years younger than him should be no problem. As long as they don't bother him, he will be fine. [5s]
Feeling kind of dry, Finn immediately floated upwards and made his way to the bathroom. He thought either Bastille or Charleston would be up, but he could hear the Indie Troll groaning and the Swing Troll muttering to herself as she seemed to be looking through her stuff. Whatever. It isn't as if he has any private parts.
All he needs is a bath to lay down in.
Just turn on the tap for warm water, place the plug over the hole and wait until it rises up to the top. He waits until it is full before he dives in and rests. He doesn't need to place in the soap.
However, the question comes at what he is going to do. Usually, the Techno Trolls go on with their daily lives in the sea with nothing to worry about. However, he is on the surface and he is far away from Techno Lagoon. The Trap Techno Troll sighed as he let the water overtake him. He might as well wait for Bastille and Charleston.
And speaking of the devil, Bastille comes in. [3b]
"Oh, bloody ripper," he slurred as he tried to get to the sink. "I can't believe we lost track of time last night. I look like a mess."
That is when he spots Finn brooding away in his bathtub.
"Oh, morning Finn," said Bastille.
The Trap Techno Troll lifted his head from the water, keeping his chin at the water ripples.
"It's Electro Ray, not Finn," hissed Finn.
"Right, right." Bastille is starting to think maybe he should just stick to his own name rather than a nickname. "You've been feeling alright?"
Finn blinked a little before sighing. "I just…I just don't like to think about the criminals coming in. I rather not face it."
"That makes it the two of us," said Bastille. "They shouldn't be here."
Finn shifts his eyes to the mirror to see Bastille's face. The Indie Alternative Troll doesn't seem to have a readable expression. He looks tired, but he looks like he has just been drained from energy. His grey skin probably matches. That guy must have looked stoic at times, but does he know or just feel bored?
"Are you going to go on to fight them?"
"Unfortunately," muttered the Indie Troll, picking up a toothbrush. "What about you? You're going to be like your girlfriend?"
"W-What?! No I won't!" protested Finn. However, he admits it. "OK, fine. Maybe a little. But I would rather be on the safe side. I have my trusty dagger here and I got at least some…basic…defense…skills."
"You got a dagger?" asked Bastille.
"It's…it's just a stupid thing."
"It's a useful weapon," said Bastille. "I…uh…used it a lot during my adventure times. When trying to get away from predators and cutting plants for food…well, not really needed here, but it is a deadly weapon."
"Of course, you would know that, you wuss. Of course."
Bastille thought for a while. Finn seems to have tried to steer out of his way from danger from what he heard. He didn't seem as concerned as Jazzy at the very start about the threats in TrollsTopia. Would he mind at all about it?
"Just a question," asked Bastille. "What do you think would be the best thing to do when there are those…types of dangers in town? Would you be willing to actually fight?"
Finn shrugged. It was a simple question. "I just…do what I have to do."
"You just do that?"
"Yeah…it's…what I…do. N-Not like I care or anything about what the drongos do. Well, I mean…" This is getting a little awkward. Something came into Finn's mind. "Did you want to join in?"
Bastille decided not to tell him. Maybe it is due to his pride of being an excellent adventurer that got to him.
"Why yes!" he lied, smiling to himself. "Oh, it would be nice to…join in on the action."
"What's with you and the other Trolls liking to get into the 'action'?" asked Finn, lifting his body slightly upwards.
"Don't you feel the rush when you get into things?" asked Bastille, turning around and waving his toothbrush, half-toothpaste and half-saliva covered, around. "Action content, it makes things super exciting! It would be exhausting, but you would feel the burn and you would love it. You would even feel relief at the end and you feel happy and you might want to do it again. It would be a bit like exercise, but it would be worth burning a tissue on that one. I think Charleston believes that beating up criminals, mercenaries and murderers should be a some sort of good treat to have an adventure."
Finn stares at Bastille. Bastille is well-known for his adventures, so it should be no surprise that he considers fighting back at the criminals would bring such 'joy' to someone. Maybe like being the hero of the day, but things can mess up pretty quickly.
"Oh…" he said. "But isn't it a little safe to not go all out and just…stay inside and do nothing at all? It would be a waste of time going around."
Even though Bastille is making up a lie, this sets him off. He somewhat believes that Charleston might have a point that fighting the criminals off would relieve him from being burnt out, but being asked to settle down might not be the best idea already. He has enough of just sitting down and looking pretty with his hair. He wants to give this a try.
He swung his toothbrush at Finn as if it was a sword.
"It's not a waste of time!" objected Bastille, a dangerous look in his eyes. "It should be great, right?"
Finn suddenly felt bad. He started to sweat as he lowered his head down towards the water. "S-Sorry…I was just…wondering. You like to be that ambitious."
Bastille shook his head. He isn't sure why he is suddenly ruffled. "I-I'm not mad at you. I'm just…feeling burnt out, that's all!"
Before he could explain more, Charleston came into the bathroom. She is already all dressed neatly, but she looks pretty worried about something.
"Uh…guys…" she said. "Something is missing."
Bastille stared at her and observed her from head to toe. "You are right. You are missing something."
"How can you tell?" said Finn, still keeping his eyes at the water level.
"You aren't holding your cane around, mate," said Bastille. "You usually like to carry it around and swing it around onto your back without letting it go. You take it everywhere. To the restaurants, to the streets, to the meetings with the leaders when they call us, to the bathroom…"
"Why would you want to take your stick to the potty?" asked Finn.
Charleston sheepishly laughed. "The thing is…I don't know where my cane is."
"What?" said Bastille, raising an eyebrow. "But you often know where it is, don't you?"
"I…checked my room…and it disappeared!" A big grin appeared on her face. [3bs]
Whelp, Jazzy's words seemed to have come true, but somebody seemed to be trying to find the nearest backscratcher from them.
AN: And the story all starts with the search for a wooden cane. As always, a great story has to start with one. ;D Ha, ha, ha...honestly, I have to start the chaos with something ridiculous, don't' you think?
Guess who is returning to the show?
OK, I know that a lot of you are gonna be complaining about having Creek in the story. This is something I also want to address as well because I believe that I should at least try to give him some kind of character development after his small role in 'Real Harmony Takes Lots of Voices' since I don't I never press on my version of Creek and how he works out in TrollsTopia. Especially since I am having Suki in the story again. But I think I gonna have to touch on Creek first for this episode.
And besides...there will be another annoying character coming in...
Does the cloak look familiar to you? The cloak that has the geometric designs and the galaxy design on the inside would the same one as the one in Just Dance 2022 for the dancer's outfit of 'Rock Your Body'. Honestly, I decided to use that cloak because it comes from Branch's voice actor's song. However, the cloak makes me think; maybe Branch should wear it and how it looks on him. Well, we are not at that stage yet on if he will wear it, but that is part of his character arc! You are going to love it!
Creek stealing from Bruce is a reference to Regular Show.
I.M. Rally and MasterClass60 helped me with making the outfits for the law enforcers. They have to look dominating, but they stick to the tone of the Pop Trolls. They even suggest the funny joke for what Bruce would be doing that causes him to be distracted.
Thanks for reading this chapter! If you enjoy this story, be sure to follow or favorite this story, so you can get updates about this story. Make sure to review this chapter on what you think about this chapter. I'm OK of hearing improvements from you (please no flames). However, it will take me a while to get the next chapter up due to exam study. Any questions, please ask me through PMs.
Until next time, keep on rocking!