Tresillo loved his sisters, he'd helped Mama & Papa take care of them when they were still babies. So why was he sulking in the corner of such a fiesta.
Marimba and Tambora were both smiling and dancing at the first united Enchantment dance, they had found their heart with two other reggaeton trolls and they had been courting for a while now and had concluded the fifth step of the family dance, he should have been happy, so why was he jealous.
Because he'd waited so long to find what they had, he was four seasons older, and no one could even match him in dance or song, he'd struck out, the few that could match him in dance never made the song because they couldn't catch his flow or caught it and then lost the rhythm.
This was a common theme for him, hearing his sisters call out he quickly plastered on a smile and went over to the happy duos.
'Tresillo' orange and lime arms wound around his waist in a side hug 'again'
Marimba asked in one ear. 'There are so many other trolls here I thought one might've caught your eye at least' Tambora said against the other.
Some of these trolls, Tresillo knew, wouldn't last the night, lust, it was only a base rhythm and note, that was all, but he and his sisters had been brought up, on tales from their parents about how special matching songs or dances could be, if a match was made, courting stages were begun.
One troll had in fact caught his eye, a most unusual troll, who help them realise that all music was worth saving, in the dance off between the K-Pops, he flawlessly performed with the trio and embraced their music, many had been able to keep up with the trio, but non embraced it as quick and could perform the so soon, but he was attached to another, a young Alpha queen nonetheless, who could offer him so much more.
Over the top of Marimbas head Tresillo saw the very troll he was thinking about, alone, by the snack table, the slightly taller, Alpha, pink queen missing from his side, unusual.
The twins grinned at each other and glanced up at their brother who hadn't taken his eyes of the lone blue troll, nudging him in the side, in unison both girls pushed shoved him to go over and ask him to dance, even if it was just as friends.
Stumbling from the push shove Tresillo casually wandered over to the end of the snack table, making sure it looked like he was subtly checking the food, while was actually looking over the petite blue pop troll at the end.
He was shorter than the reggae-tone trolls but that just endeared him to Tresillo because he knew Branch could tuck comfortably under chin, and while he still had the soft belly that pop trolls were known to have, Tresillo could see and had felt the hint muscle in his body, a pity it was covered, he would love to see that body move free from silly covering pop trolls insisted on.
Still, the little blue troll had a soft frown upon his face. Tresillo grabbed one of the least sweet things he could find and went to stand by Branch.
Looking over the crowd Tresillo saw the pink pop Queen bouncing between numerous partners, who offered her a dance or a song, he noticed, lust in their eyes, glancing at the shorter blue by his side, he saw disappointment in his. Tresillo knew that some trolls danced in groups to attract potential partners but what was the young Queen thinking surely, she knew what this evening meant.
Tresillo chanced a look at the leaders and saw the surprise on all their faces, but then the young Queen was somewhat innocent to the world and thought hugs could solve everything, this was shown at council meetings etc, where one of the pop ambassadors, Branch, was the one who listened and offered to help and learn about the different trolls, their cultures, music, lifestyle and had quickly endeared himself to all the leaders, but became close with Funk trolls and its Royal Family.
It was well known amongst all Trollstopia that Branch was one of the finest ambassadors the pop trolls had and also the Queens partner, so what was she doing dancing with others while her supposed mate-to-be is left by the side.
Looking over he saw the Funk troll leaders, King Quincy, and Queen Essence, who had all but adopted the blue troll as one of their own, looking concerned about what was taking place with the Pink Queen on the dance floor.
Tresillo remembered how the little blue Omega wormed his way into his thoughts.
His sisters were snickering as they held him between them, he was embarrassed, a rock, he was a bounty hunter and the most sought-after dance partner, and he tripped over a rock.
Their camp up ahead with, vibe city, floating above. Seeing some of the funk trolls and other hinterland residents milling around the site, caused the trio to let out a grin, they were home.
…
After Tresillo had been treated by the camp doctor and his sister had finished laughing at his pain, sympathetic trolls they were, he was told to rest. He did but wanted to be amongst his family and outside it had been a while since they'd been home.
So, he sat on one of the logs near the bonfire enough to keep warm and chaperone his sisters without being a "big brother" according to Marimba and Tambora, who were sat with their potential mates they were deep in their courting, the trolls knew, now, they didn't need quite as much defending as most thought, but their partners offered love and affection in spades and his girls loved it and deserved it.
Hearing the music start Tresillo looked across to the dance area wishing he could be part of it so his sisters could have their family dance, the last step for them before becoming mates. The party was in full swing, his sisters and their partners sharing a few dances here and there, joining Tresillo so he wouldn't be alone, Tambora, him apologising because he couldn't do the family dance, the twins shoving cake in his face because he was an idiot.
It had been a few hours, and the party was starting to dwindle down in tone, softer music played as the trolling's that lived in the area were put to bed.
Not seeing the troll to his left, Tresillo was surprised when a tired voice asked, 'do you mind if I sit here?' looking over he expected a funk or hinter troll, not the exhausted pop ambassador.
Waving his hand to the seat he watched as the other practically melted into his seat.
While Branch was sitting Tresillo took in how the shorter troll, his posture was slouched, he looked one blink away from falling asleep where he sat, and he was shivering despite the warm heat of the fire.
Tresillo knew the pop ambassador was visiting with the two princes of funk but wondered what caused him to be this tired. 'Are you not going to dance with your mate?' he asked, as Branch trying to suppress a rather, in Tresillos opinion, a cute looking yawn, and shook his head making him momentarily more alert, he hummed his decline saying she wasn't there, and started to unconsciously lean towards him.
Now this surprised Tresillo as normally where the ambassador was the Queen wasn't far behind. Tresillos eyes widened at that, this cute, fiery, exhausted, little omega was all alone, and falling asleep on Tresillos side, not good, looking at the dance floor he caught the attention of Marimba who quickly made her way over, puzzled until she saw who was next to her brother.
Marimba sent her partner over to chaperone so her brother didn't get in accidental trouble, not that anyone here thinks Tresillo would do anything, he wasn't that type, but rumours started with less, Marimba went to find one of the Funk princes to take Branch back to Vibe city.
Feeling the sleeping troll shiver, Tresillo placed and arm around him bringing him tighter into his side to try and ward off whatever cold was plaguing him.
Looking down Tresillo couldn't help but admire the sleeping troll, watching as he nuzzled into his side a content smile on his face, as he soaked in some Tresillo's natural heat, watching the way the fire light plays across he sleepy face and indigo hair, a light breeze ruffling it just enough, to cause a mouth-watering scent to reach Tresillos nose causing his body to tense, it smelt like peaches and cinnamon with hint of sugar, not good.
Looking out to see if Marimba had returned with help, his ears twitched as he heard light mewling and felt stronger shivers coming from the sleeping omega.
Regardless of the boundaries he knew he would cross, Tresillo did the only thing he could think of, under the careful eye of his almost troll in law, he brought Branch across his lap and tucked him into his neck and started to comfort purr, similar to the ones he would do for his sisters when they because distressed or hurt, like he would do for a mate.
Feeling the shivers die down and the mewls quieten into soft chuffs and purrs, Tresillo took the chance to really observe the blue omega wrapped in his arms. He could feel the soft pelt under his hands, male omega trolls we're widely sought for their softness, as trollings naturally cling to their omega parent, and the softer they were the happier the pup was, the Indio hair looked just as soft if not more so up close, perfect for carrying pup safely. Soft and strong, a perfect combination.
The image took Tresillo by surprise. Branch curled in his arms content, belly round with growing pup, a little one giggling as it hid in the indigo locks, a another running around, reggaeton colours proudly displayed. A strong growl rumbled through Tresillo at the thought, the Alpha side of him approved.
'Be careful Tresillo, he's already being courted,' reminded the purple reggaeton beside him, he hadn't even realised how close he was to the scent gland on the sleeping troll, growling at his lack of awareness too lost in the image of what could be.
Tresillo pulled back from the mouthwatering peaches and cinnamon scent, the other was right, but why wasn't the Queen with him, he looked exhausted, and more concerning he looked thinner than the last time, granted he had been trying to trollnap him but still, he was concerned.
Marimba's voice cut across the silence that formed between the three, looking up the King and Queen of Funk and their Ambassador followed behind. Tresillo tensed, what would they think of the scene in front of them, Marimba was right to send her mate, he almost scented Branch and that would have caused a scandal, worse than the issue with Rock apocalypse.
'Majesties, Ambassador,' Tresillo nodded his head in lieu of the more traditional bow. He was brought up with respect, the sleeping blue omega filled his arms, he didn't want to disturb him, and the alpha part desired to keep him safe and comfortable and figure out what had caused the exhausted look in his eyes.
…
The smaller troll had been taken back to Vibe city after being regretfully awoken, and following all the blushing and apologising profusely about falling asleep on him like that, Tresillo had gone back to his own tent and spent the night torn between sleep and awake, both plagued with thoughts of the fiery omega prince, that mouthwatering scent, how he would feel wrapped around Tresillo, round with his pup, sleeping in his arms, by the time the sun had started its ascent Tresillo had given in trying to sleep.
Hearing a light sniffle to his right Tresillo broke from his musing, looking over he saw Branch had stiffened, a blank mask quickly covered his shock, disbelief and was that sadness, he followed Branch's eye-line.
Shock, disbelief, anger all raced through Tresillo, he couldn't imagine how the slight troll next to him felt, it seems the young Queen was as foolish as he thought, succumbing to the lust of the song and dance, did the Alpha female forget, this perfectly beautiful omega that she had abandoned, one that Tresillo should, shouldn't be standing near, whose scent had ingrained itself into Tresillos subconscious from two meetings, and was turning bitter distress.
The smaller troll was unconsciously shaking and distressed growls and mewls slipping out, which were tearing at Tresillo finally tuned control already, if the sounds were cracking him then the sour scent was the hammer to destroy him.
Tresillo quickly turned away from the dance floor causing a distraught Branch to jump in realisation, losing his mask in that split second had tears springing to his eyes, he looked startled at the taller Alpha next to him.
Branch quickly rubbed at his eyes refusing to let the tears fall.
Not good though Tresillo, he didn't like to see Omegas cry on good days, but the possessive side of him said this particular blue spitfire should never be unhappy, the uneaten treat in his hand was automatically presented to the smaller troll, who was now looking perplexed at the, actually Tresillo wasn't sure what it was, it looked like a muffin, he just knew it didn't have much sugar and was the only thing that there was lots of and looked good.
A soft giggle reached his ears over the music, his spitfire, the possessive voice purred, looking into the spi- Branch's face he saw a sad watery smile aimed at him, as he reached out for the muffin, a soft 'thank you' was heard.
He smiled for us and took the offering, his scent had sweetened, we made him happier the possessive voice purred.
Tresillo was practically purring when plush fingers brushed against his as the muffin was taken from his hand. Images of Branch being wrapped in his arms, flashed in his mind, as he was fighting back actually purring. Tresillo knew he was playing with fire and shouldn't be unchaperoned, but he wanted a few more moments with smaller troll and his sweet scent.
Chancing a look over his shoulder Tresillo saw the funk royal family looking at the scene on the dance floor, even the less serious funk-pop prince was in shock.
Sighing he looked at the spit-Bran, who was he kidding the blue spitfire that he wanted, but he was a gentle troll first that was how he'd been raised. Stop snickering Tambora. Growling under his breath, Tresillo offered his multicoloured arm out to his spitfire who had been nibbling rather cutely at the muffin, and who was now looking at him in surprise. 'Come on you, should shouldn't be here alone.'
The possessive Tresillo screamed in his head, but he should be, me and him, he's ours, our blue spitfire. The rationale voice which sounded like his Mami finally piped up, would you shut up, be a gentletroll boy, he's already distressed, he was getting a headache.
He was brought out of the internal argument, by an unsure, shaking, strong, and plush arm taking his. Strong and soft, mine, shut up. Tresillo adjusted and escorted the lavender blushing troll to his adoptive parents the royal funk family and, when did the ambassador get there.
Escorting the unofficial prince to his family, Tresillo knew before he could even start officially courting him, he had to convince the family to give him a chance, and to do that he would need to speak to Branch's family first.
'Majesties, Royal Highness's, Ambassador' Tresillo bobbed his head, Sue him he had respect for the quintet, they never judged him or his sisters for their lifestyle but complemented them on the care for each other.
Feeling Branch's paw tighten and try to pull his paw away, Tresillo looked at him and saw he was trembling and scared, why was he scared, he was also looking away from the trolls in front in fear, oh my spitfire, a deep, low rumble came from Tresillo intending to comfort Branch, his other paw covering the shaking one in his arm.
Tresillo turned to the blue troll, his rumble, getting louder, he brought the trembling omega into his chest so he could hear, tucking him under his chin,, the indigo hair was as soft as he thought, the solid build was under his paws, his pelt was still as plush as he remembered with each what he hoped was soothing stroke of his spine, strong and soft, the spitfire in his arms was slowly sagging into Tresillos chest, he felt Branch responding to his rumble with purrs of his own, rather contented purrs are they not.
The pair never realised they were being watching by the older trio of Funk trolls. Quincey and Essence shared a knowing look, their son was being courted, even if he hadn't realised it yet, and by a rather renowned bounty hunter and apparently a controlled Alpha at that.
Both knew he wouldn't have been happy being the Queens mate, too much attention and they had heard about some of the issues their new son had faced, some caused by the village trolls about him being grey and others started by the rather pushy Queen, they had also witnessed some events still happening. No, their sweet prince would not be happy by the Pop Queens side, especially as they had seen her abandon him almost as soon as they had arrived.
Essence knew her son wouldn't be happy, more so as she had soothed some of the nightmares following the rock apocalypse, amongst others the most profound moment when he called her Mama, after a nightmare about losing his grandmother on what she found out was her birthday.
Quincey had found out about some other issues when he had woken early one morning only to be informed the pop ambassador hadn't left the workshop, finding Branch practically asleep where he was standing, asking why he wasn't enough as he was, he'd called him Baba, in his distressed state told him about his brothers leaving, one had promised to return and didn't, and how his being grey caused him to be bullied and become an outcast in the tribe.
Q & E had told each other what they found out, but it never went further than them. They made an agreement to keep their new sons' confidence because he told them in moments of panic and sadness, their son would never be like allowed to be treated like that again, he would be treated as the treasure he was.
Darnell and Cooper had agreed that Branch would be their brother after a rather memorable visit to Vibe City left them feeling protective over their omega brother.
They had taken the ambassadors and Queen of the returned Pop village on a tour of Vibe City, Cooper had been excited to see his friends again and introduce them to his family and so had taken the lead on their small group, while Prince D had stood at the back watching his brother chatter away excitedly with his friends.
D noticed the smaller troll towards the back was little on edge and slightly separated from the loud group, he realised it was Branch. D had hoped to talk to him, to thank him for helping him bond with his brother again, while they were happy to be with each other again they weren't sure how to be brothers, as both had been an only child for so long.
Darnell had walked over to the Indigo haired troll and nudged his side, shocked when he saw how startled the smaller troll was and noted the coiling sent of pain and apologised. Now D was always known as observant and noticed how Branch was held his vest tighter around his chest and the slightly off colouring on Branch's arm before D could ask Cooper had called out to ask if everyone was ready to start the tour. Wanting to stick close Darnell asked if he could walk with Branch, which garnered a suspicious look aimed at him.
Darnell had backed off and joined Cooper at the front of the group and started the tour keeping an eye on Branch, when the tour of Vibe City had finished the brothers had taken the group to meet their parents who had been visiting the nursery at the time.
Cooper had seen something wrong with Branch when he arrived, but dropped the questions after Poppy said he was fine. He was concerned as an Alpha himself he could sent the sour smell of pain on Branch, but it wasn't his place, was it, Poppy had said he was fine, even so he'd seen his brother with him, D had suggested stopping the tour early and meeting their parents at the medical centre, hoping Branch might get help there.
They had made a quick plan to have D and Branch drop behind the group without him realising, while in the medical centre to get checked over. Branch was suffering from the effects of the power cord he'd been exposed to and needed rest which he hadn't got.
The rest was history Cooper and D had got a new brother and they were not allowing, no matter that Poppy was one of Coopers friends, her to be anywhere near their sweet baby brother, this new Alpha better watch out as well, because if he dared treat Branch as anything less than the prince he was, he wouldn't stand a chance.
Lownote didn't know what happened between Q&E and the little Prince, but, had taken the younger troll after the ambassadors visit, and viewed him as another nephew and was more than happy to help the twins grill this reggaeton alpha, who thought he could court the Royal Omega. He saw that the young Alpha desired his nephew and had almost acted on it, until the purple chaperone had reminded him Branch was being courted, no longer, but something was different with this one.
Branch didn't know what to do, Tresillo had seen what he saw, why did he even offer him the muffin, the trolls in the Village were right he wasn't worthy of the Queen, clearly, she'd dragged him to the party and abandoned him as soon as it had been opened. Everyone knew what this party was for.
Why had a taken Tresillos arm, what was he doing, Mama & Baba, King Quincey and Queen Essence were right there, and he was acting like a lust filled fool, like Pop..py.
He was trembling, trying to pull away from the strong, warm arm, he didn't know what to do, until he felt Tresillo pulling away, don't, why did he feel warm paw resting on his hand, his shaking was worse he shouldn't be doing this, warm, comfort, he was warm and there was a deep rumble in his ear, tucking himself close to the sound and the scent of air, warm cinnamon and apples, safe, Branch felt a larger paw sweeping down his spine, contentment flowed through him, he hadn't had this in a while, comfort, safe, purrs erupted from him as he melted into the heat surrounding him, his eyes drooping, he wanted this you could have this if you let him a soft sounding voice was murmuring in his head..
Tresillo was fight back the possessive alpha side of him that told him to claim the small troll in his arms, that peaches and cinnamon scent, enticing him again, as he looked at the drooping blue eyes, he should, he should, hand him to his mother, but he's right there you've almost completed the courting you should take him, sugar the little Alpha on his shoulder was persistent, but his Mama & Papa taught him to be stronger than that.
—-
'Papi how did Mami know you belonged together?' A young Tresillo asked as he snuggles into his Papi's arms.
Smiling down as his son his Papi answered, 'there wasn't any reason, your Mama asked permission from my Papa to court me the next day.'
An indelicate snort came behind the pair 'I found him covered in mud, I'd turned around for two minutes, he smiled, and I knew he was it for me, now I just needed you papa to choose me.'
'Remember, never let your possessive side sway you into forcing a choice it should always be theirs.'
—
Tresillo was moving before he even finished his thought processed fully, he was passing the content and sleepy Branch to the twin brothers and parents, who began to settle him on his mother's back.
Fighting every instinct he had, to take him back to his tent in the hinterlands. Just hearing and smelling those distressed tones again almost broke everything Tresillo stood for and giving a stiff bow to the Royal family he backed away quickly. Coward.
He never realised the five funk trolls were smiling as he ran, never knowing in that moment they had all agreed that he would be the best person for, their brother, son, and nephew to be matched with.
He left to the shared pod, he, his siblings, and their mates were given for their visit. He couldn't be around the party any longer not when he was so close to snapping.
—-
Locked in his temporary room, Tresillo could hardly think, he was no stranger to being around strong, independent omega's but none had taunted him so much as the blue haired pop troll, vivid images swam across his thoughts again, a deep growl echoed in the room, causing him to slam his hand against the door the momentary pain shocking his senses back.
Looking around the room he remembered the large bathtub, it was rare he got to use his bath, so he took advantage while he was alone.
After filling the tub, the steam lazily curling about, Tresillo sunk into the tub letting the hot water sooth his nerves and body, until his hind brain kicked in, then all he could think about was his spitfire, and his scent, rumblings filled the room as his possessive side reared.
Coward, you left him near her, you should have brought him back, he could have been ours by now.
Tresillo knew he wasn't a coward, but he would rather be, than destroy the reputation of this omega, no he would take his time.
What about the pink one, she could still claim him, take him from us, no, the foolish pink queen screwed that up tonight, Tresillo grinned dangerously, he knew if she went near Branch after her adventures on the floor, she would be facing more than five angry Funk trolls.
But there are others, you've seen them, other alphas looking at our spitfire his possessive side growled. Not for long, he will be ours, we just have to court him properly, not when he didn't realise, start from the beginning.
'Just remember, he doesn't belong to you, son it has to be his choice.' His Mami's voice drifted through. 'I will Mami, it will be his choice.'
My Mate, we shall court him, Tresillo knew then and there his alpha brain and he finally agreed, they would court the blue prince properly and earn his affection.
Soaking the heat from the water as he rested his head back against the edge of the tub, Tresillo watched the steam rise curling from the water, letting the tension he built up go as he let his mind drift. Peaches, his mind supplied, sinking more into the hazy state of relaxation
Surrounded by the heat of the water Tresillo relaxed against the rim of the tub, the only sounds he heard were the crickets, and the shift of his tent with the wind. It had been a long day's journey back, so coming back to this was nice. He let his eyes drift close.
Plush arms wrapped around his shoulders, the warm scent of peaches and cinnamon, invaded his senses, soft kisses were being pressed against his shoulder and cheek, until he finally turned his head to meet the mouth full on. Sliding his tongue again the soft lips, gaining permission, the duo slid their tongue around the other, neither wanting to break apart, until the need to breath became necessary.
He wouldn't trade this for the world, resting a hand on the warm lavender flushed cheek, he took in the sight of his mate, soft blue eyes, hair navy in the dim room, kiss swollen lips.
'Mi amor, join me,' seeing the lavender blush deepen as his mate nodded, he was still shy, before the arms could pull away, he took one of the paws that had been resting on his chest and pressed a small kiss to the pad before letting go.
Watching his mate undress was a favourite past time of Tresillo's the usual tightness of his mate's body had been replaced with a relaxed softness, his movements loose, as he slipped off his robe. Looking over his mate's body, a satisfied growl slipped free, as his eyes, lingered on the distinct curve supported by his spitfire, the last time he saw, it was hardly noticeable, now here was the visible proof, there right under his beautiful mate's heart was their growing pup.
Tresillo offered his paws, watching as his beauty walk towards him, joining him the water.
Settling his amor against his chest, Tresillo cupped the firm rounded belly, holding his pup as he felt the press of a tinier paw or foot against his. He let out a content rumble, this is what he had been missing, su familia, pressing a kiss on to the shoulder. He heard a contented purr returned and looking into the blue pools of his love's eyes.
Tresillo held his future in his arms as he pressed another kiss to the pregnancy soften cheek, another contented purr slipped from the pregnant troll's lips.
'Damn it Tresillo, are you in there.'
Tresillo growled at the repeated banging on the door of the bathroom snapped him from his thoughts, with a whine when he realised it was a dream 'Tresillo, don't make me break the door down, because you know I will.'
Before Tambora even got a chance to lay another hand on the door an irritated, wet Tresillo was standing in front of her. 'Can a troll have some privacy, really Bora' as he brushed past her fling a wet towel at her face.
Seeing Marimba on the sofa he joined her, kicking her foot off so he could sit; brothers gotta sit and she was in the way. 'Hey' flashing his tongue, at her and getting a return fire, the duo laughing at their childishness, seeing Tambora tucking herself into the chair across 'What was so urgent Mar that you sent Bora to threaten an innocent door?.'
Seeing the twin's glance at each other, and look back at him with an unreadable expression, he quirked an eyebrow, in return.
'Are you okay, hurt, did your mates do something I need to hide bodies for, you know I will' patting Marimba's leg, getting nothing, 'Well, what is it?!,' he couldn't take their flat stares and they knew it. Little shits. 'If you're not going to tell me, can I at least go to bed, it's been a rough night.' Still nothing 'Will one of you just tell me?' He said exasperated.
'Branch' after all that 'what about him?' a pause 'no… no, no, no, no anything but the twin speak please' Tresillo would get to his knees if they didn't, he wasn't that lucky, Marimba started 'Of all the trolls' Tambora followed 'at the dance, you chose'
'The most sort after'
'Eligible'
'Desirable'
'Coveted'
'Not mention, already being courted' Tresillo deep growl echoed around the room.
'Pipe down Sillo, their not done' chimed in Tambora mate.
'What were you thinking?' Tambora continued.
'The problem Bora, is, I don't think he was thinking, were you Big brother?' Sniped Marimba 'because you would only do those things if you already decided, and judging by that growl you have.' Both girls looked at each other sighing.
'Tresillo, we saw you both, but you have to be careful, he is still the pop queen's intended, no matter everyone's feelings are, about what happened tonight, it had to come from him.' Tambora joined her siblings on the sofa. 'We know he would be a fine fit for our family we saw him dance as well, but he has to be the one to choose' she finished.
Marimba started, but was cut swiftly off by Tresillo, 'I remember as well as you what Mami and Papi said, I already thought about this and I know, I would be blessed if he shared his life with me, and I will not destroy his reputation, that was why I took him back to the Royal Family, I couldn't do it, not to him, he deserves better, after what he saw and what she did' Tresillo's rant descended into a snarl as he thought about the soured scent from earlier.
The four others in the room all looked at him in shock, a devious smile spilled across their faces 'sooo, how can we help?'
Looking the devious smiles across from him, one slide across his face' I want to do this properly, the stages, but first I need to ask his familia 's permission' Tresillo finished.
'Old fashioned, I like it, I think we can all agree we can take it in turns to be chaperones, it'll be nice, we can get to know him as well' Marimba finished 'should I fear that sentence' gulping when he saw the twins' tooth filled smiles.
They spent the night planning each stage and had a few back-ups depending on the weather and how Branch was feeling.
In Vibe city…
The royal family had departed soon after the blue reggaeton alpha had returned their newest addition.
Quincey and Essence where not pleased with they had seen of the young Queens behaviour tonight and judging by the faces they had seen on their twin sons, neither were they. While young Poppy had done much to help troll kind reunite, their son would not be treated as a commodity, a trinket to be tossed, aside until he was needed or wanted, never again.
Branch had been settled on Essences back after the Reggaeton troll had escorted him back, but not before they had seen how he comforted him when he became distressed, simple gestures, the muffin, offering his arm letting their son choose, when the trembling started, before they could even move, he had started to rumble, a loose hug, which allowed their Branch to move, watching their child sag into the hug, and hearing his contented purrs.
They had watched as the reggaeton fought with himself before ultimately ending the comforting hug and giving Branch back to them. How he practically forced himself to walk away when their son became distraught at him leaving.
The decision was made, they would give their blessing if asked to court, but their child, adoptive or otherwise, had final say. They would need to arrange suitable chaperones.
When the six trolls finally returned to Vibe city, D and Cooper left at once to the smash zone, which was something the smaller prince sleeping on Essences back had put together to help their boy's bond. Nodding to her husband and Brother-in-law, to follow the twins, she took the sleeping Prince to his room.
Coaxing him awake was a little harder as he was clinging to Essences fur rather tightly. Climbing into the bed, she finally managed to wiggle his paws from her fur, watching her sleeping prince as he curled into the sheets, she remembered how she came to care for this troll who just fit with her family so well,
Essence had been unable to sleep, it had been weeks after the incident with Queen Barb, while the apology had been given and music returned, it didn't erase the fact that for that time, her family, her people, had lost their vibe, their music.
Herself and her love had been turned into rock zombies and their sons had to witness it, D was still having nightmares, to see her normally relaxed son curled around his brother seeking comfort from both her and Quincey frightened her. Her youngest son who had spent barely any time with them, had also sought comfort with them, practically strangers, was telling.
Feeling restless, she wormed her way out the bed, but not before Q caught her paw, they hardly needed to talk he understood, he let her go and curled around their sons, who shuffled into him, content purrs filled the room.
Making her way to the kitchen, a cool drink sometimes soothed her, when a noise from the living room stopped her, a tuft of blue hair similar to her own fur, poked over the sofa top.
Sniffling and choked back tears, which had definitely caught her attention, Branch, her mind supplied, he was the only non-family member allowed in this area.
Moving around the seating area she found the young troll curled in a ball trapped in a nightmare, tear tracks were dried on his face as new ones were created.
Seeing the state, the poor boy was in after, Cooper and Darnell had brought him back from the Ambassadors meeting, and hearing from Darnell, what medics had told them and actually seeing it where very much two different things, the weight loss and the sever bruising from taking the first hit straight to his chest, she and Q insisted he stay in family wing, as the doctors had ordered bed rest.
Clearly no one thought to check on him, after all the medical team had practically swarmed the group on stage who had been targets of the blasts, so how had he been missed.
With no thought at all she started a soothing lullaby, one she used to sing to her son when he was younger, seeing Branch calming, she risked joining him and curled around him, she realised what was happening from the scent he was putting out, burnt sugar, the poor boy was in omegan distress, running a paw through the sweat drenched hair, her own scent grew stronger the longer she went on, as he seemed to melt into the touch, curling into her side with each pass of her paw and each note of the song, his scent changing from burnt sugar to the warmer peaches and cinnamon.
Feeling tired now herself, she was entirely too comfortable where she was, the solid warm weight, light puffs of breath of the sleeping pop Ambassador on her side and the light peach scent that was now lingering, lulled her into a restful sleep.
Looking at Branch sleep now, Essence could still detect the hint of burning sugar which lingered under the warm peach and cinnamon scent, a sad smile pulled at her lips. Her baby deserved happiness, something she noticed seemed to be happening less, when he was around the pop Queen, hopefully they could convince him to break the courting, yes, issues might come up after so long but, they could be dealt with. The reggaeton Alpha was a strong contender she hadn't seen Branch so relaxed unless it was around the twins.
Hearing foots steps she looked over to find Quincey had joined them. 'D and Coop went to bed, they exhausted themselves in the smash zone and Lownote went to see R&B' he said making his way to the bed.
Taking her mates offered paw the blue Queen sloped from the bed carefully as not to disturb, their sleeping son.
As a quick kiss was pressed to her cheek, as Quincey looked over his third son, 'She will no longer be a contender for our son' he solemnly stated, while he thanked the pop trolls for taking care of Cooper, he was not happy with their treatment of Branch. Essence agreed with him, the Pop queen will no longer court their son.
A few days later,
After some false starts and plenty of ribbing from his sisters, Tresillo started to make his way to Pop village with his courting gift, he'd heard rumours through the bounty hunter green vine, the pop-funk royal family had returned to pop village.
Queen Poppy practically ordered the Funk Royal family to return 'her' Omega to the village, as he was required to complete the final stage of their which was supposedly to have happened at the Enchantment ball.
Walking around Tresillo noted some of the white and pink decorations still hanging around from last night, however he was distracted by a group of trolls, trying to calm a rather angry Alpha Queen. Feeling a feral smile pull at his face Tresillo wandered over to a nearby stall to listen.
'How dare they' ranted the pink queen 'Branch has been mine since Bergen town, and they come in and claim our contract isn't valid.'
Seeing the pink queen stomping around like a child filled Tresillo with a sense of feral glee, she had been stripped of her right to court Branch, continuing to listen, Tresillo was enraged at what he heard next.
'I followed the steps' growled the pink queen, 'he's mine, I worked for years to get him to the stage where he wasn't that dreadful grey, I should have gone with the old ways and pinned him and fucked a pup like my father told me, I knew he stubborn but he's mine' the growl she gave was nothing compared to the one that wanted to force its way from his throat.
He left before he tore the throat out of the pink brat and started something he was most definitely willing to finish. He needed to calm down before he saw the royal family, they needed to know and he was not a bounty hunter for nothing, he knew not far behind were his sisters and their mates, they would get the rest of the information needed, Tambora was the best intel gatherer amongst the trio, she would collect anything he was missing with his abrupt departing.
The Alpha in him was ready to tear the Queen to pieces along with that pack she was hanging around, they hadn't spoken in defence of the blue prince which means they knew about the custom and that she was prepared to use it.
A pink decoration was in Tresillos eye-line, the alpha in him craved violence, he was hanging by a tread after last night, but this vile custom of pinning, this was the unfortunate thing that tipped the alpha over the edge, he held back as best he could, he didn't go after the pink bitch, what did he care if he took a sick amount of pleasure in pretending the pink sections of the wilting decorations were her.
Fiery cinnamon greeted two sets of twins, who had searched for the angry alpha.
They needed to calm him down before he drew the wrong attention to the area.
Tresillo was the fighter in the group, rarely did he get hit during their trips, but in this state, he was next to lethal. Marimba and Tambora were trying to draw the attention of their brother, but the growls and burning cinnamon were getting stronger.
Terrified, vicious these were not words Marimba and Tambora, commonly associated with their brother, but right now, the twin girls had never felt such fear being around him. He was watching them closely while they knew he wouldn't hurt them normally; they had only seen him this close to the edge when Chaz had dared try and pin Tambora, well there was a reason Tresillo was a feared fighter.
Hearing the funk trolls behind them growl, Tresillo locked eyes straight on them eyes green eyes flaring causing the girls to growl back, Marimba stood to the front and waved a signal behind her back.
Taking the hint, Tambora barely keeping the tremor out her voice and ordered the young alpha brothers to get Branch quickly.
Darnell & Cooper ran toward their family, catching the eye of many trolls, who just brushed it off as being overly excited, until they found their parents and a sobbing Branch.
Essence saw the look of urgency on her sons faces and before she even had chance to ask, Cooper was dragging Branch away towards the dance pavilion with Darnell following close behind. Looking towards her husband and brother-in-law in shock, they quickly tracked their children down. Speeding up when the scent of burning cinnamon grew stronger.
When the trio of funk trolls reached the pavilion, they saw a two beat up female reggaeton trolls, leaning against their agitated twins and no Branch. They moved to Cooper and Darnell's sides swiftly they rubbed up against their flanks a comforting purr came from the King and Queen.
Hearing their parents Darnell looked to his dad, as another agitated whine came forward. Feeling the soft fur of his dad's locks brush against him, calmed him somewhat, but what he had witnessed with Tresillo had scared him, he was still young alpha himself and never truly saw an alpha lose themselves to their instincts, he tucked his head against Quincey, he looked toward his twin who was doing the same to their mother.
Lownote looked at the two girls who were still leaning against his nephews, while they took comfort from Q&E, as he came closer, he saw the bite marks that littered their arms, bruised yes but they were hardly any lethal shots, he assumed their brother had lost himself to rage but wasn't aiming to hurt just get them just get them to back off, taking in the location and damage to the leftover decorations, he looked to the centre where two blue trolls were completely absorbed in each other.
Hearing a soft cooing responding to aggressive growls, and chirps to the purring, he saw the reggaeton had his lil nephew wrapped in his arms, nose in his hair breathing deeply watching the six next to him carefully, while Branch was stroking Tresillo's arm and face, drawing his attention back, he looked comfortable and happy about the alpha that was holding him.
Seeing a small parcel amongst the destroyed decorations he picked it up and saw it was addressed to Q&E, the reggaeton really was going traditional.
Scenting the air, he noted the burning cinnamon scent was fade slightly making way for sweeter scent of warm peaches and apples. He looked over to his brother and sister-in-law, who had managed to sooth the agitated whines of his twin nephews and were watching the duo sat amongst the litter with a pleased look.
There was something new on his Baby Blues right wrist.
Branch had been escorted to Pop Village by his younger brothers, and his new parents, he was a little shocked at this as he didn't know the considered him one of the family which had surprised them, they all though he knew how they felt about him with Quincy calling him son, mini E (his colouring was like the Queens) and Essence sweet one or mini Q (he reminded her of Quincey's tenacity) the twins, big brother, B, lil Blue(he was smaller than them, he had put a stop to the bitty b) he was after all 4 years older, Lownote frequently called him baby blue or lil nephew.
When the quintet had almost reached the mushroom pavilion when saw him, Poppy snarling she practically flew at him and almost had him, but his family pushed him towards the back group before she even got nearby.
He watched between the gap of his mama and baba had made when Poppy had finished threatening him. He saw king Peppy walk up next to his angry pink on daughter, placing a hand on her shoulder, and whisper something into her ear which caused a disturbing smile to appear of her face, chills ran down his spine when he caught her red eyes.
D must have felt him shudder because his vision was blocked by pink and shimmering silver and gold pieces, both D and Cooper were leaning into him offering him warmth and a hug as if to protect him from the pink queens' thoughts.
'Branch, come here' came a sickly-sweet order, he didn't want to move from the comfort his brothers provided, but it was a close call, he needed to face this.
Rubbing his paws on the sides of Cooper and Darnell's neck, as he heard them growling lowly, he wiggled his way out from between them and stood between his mother and father.
Seeing Poppy again after the Enchantment Ball felt like a punch to the stomach, he was the one who said he had to go back, they didn't need to come with him, but now he's glad they did, all the hurt, pain he felt that night came flooding back.
'Come here Branch' came the order again, 'No,' he replied he was trembling, not in fear, he was angry. She had no right to demand he do anything, looking Poppy in the eye he told her 'No, I won't, I, Branch, cancel any contract between myself and Queen Poppy, I no lon…longer wish to be courted by you.' Branch finished his speech, he took a deep breath, his heart was going to burst out of his chest, he looked Poppy dead in the eye and shivered at what he saw.
'Branch, Branchifer, you don't really mean that do you, sweetie, come here' Branch watched Poppy's face contort into a mock grin
As her eyes flashed with warning, Branch had backed away when she raised her arms walking closer, he didn't want to be near her.
Paw reaching for his Papa's cape, Branch flinched when she growled.
The former kings voice rang out, 'Unfortunately Branch, you cannot break the contract' Branch looked up in shock as Peppy came closer to him 'you're an orphaned omega and under the age of 25, you come under my care until you come of age.' His eyes flashed 'and because your brothers cannot be found, your contracts fall under the crown.' He finished with a wicked grin.
Branch looked at him in fear, he'd been alone, he cared for himself since he was five, his home, the independence he craved, all of it was slipping away from him, 'As such, Poppy who helped regain your colours, who had courted you for several years, whose gifts you accepted,' Branch shook leaning into Quincey's side how can I call him Baba after this as tears streamed down his face.
Feeling the body tense under him had Branch back away with a whine of fear was he mad at him. He felt a paw on his arm as he looked at Queen Essence, she pulled him into her side, Mama, he leaned into her soaking whatever warmth he could.
Quincey's low timber echoed 'unless Branch's brothers or Grandmother singed any paper to state this, his contract doesn't fall to you Peppy.' Essence finished 'you better be able to provide them as well, until then as you stated, Branch remains under the crown,'
'Ours' the five funk trolls sounded.
Branch heard Poppy growl loudly, looking up he saw her looking at him, 'you belong to me Branch, you'll see,' seeing her look at his family in distain, Branch watched as she stormed past them.
'The contract has been broken, at the Omega's request as per tradition, even though he held no formal courting agreement, he was not made aware, which is illegal,' Lownote stated 'it will be announced… today.' He finished with a growl.
Peppy was still looking at him, causing Branch to stiffen at the look in his eye, 'very well' he forced out 'but as you said, they were not formally courting, so Poppy can still, pin down, dear Branch as her mate, if she chooses to,' He finished with a forced fatherly tone.
A coldness swept through Branch at the implication, pin down, pinning had been outlawed years ago.
Branch looked at Peppy, he wouldn't stop Poppy if she did, he all but said if she did it would be ignored.
His parents, uncle and brothers must have seen it too, because there was a protective circle around him with him pulled into his Mama's side, snarls could be heard from all of them, but none more vicious than his Mama's.
He saw Peppy's walking stick and orange feet leaving and would have collapsed were it not for how his mama and baba had him held upright.
He felt his mama shift and followed not wanting to give up the warmth she was putting out, he just wanted to go to his bunker... his bunker he realised, he couldn't go back not alone, if Peppy was hinting at allowing Poppy to pin him. 'Branch, Sweet one you need to breath.' a distant voice called to him, he was breathing, wasn't he, why did his chest hurt, 'Breath son, breath' spot started to flash in his eyes as chest tighten more. He couldn't go home, not alone, he's spent so long building his bunker and he couldn't go back.
'Lownote take the boys'
'Baby you need to breath for me' Branch looked up at Essence, as she rubbed at his cheek, taking a shuddering breath in 'Thats it my little one, again' tears poured down his face 'I can't go home, I can't...' his throat closed as a sob forced it way out of his throat. Feeling exhausted Branch simply sat between his parent and soaked up the warmth between them and sobbed.
He'd been threatened, all but lost his home, he felt like he was drowning.
He was curled into Quincey's side when Cooper and Darnell had returned and forcefully dragged Branch away from their father.
Stumbling along as Cooper dragged him along, he looked behind him as saw a frightened Darnell following them at the same speed, what was going on, before he got a chance to ask, he scented burning cinnamon and then heard bodies hitting the floor.
Seeing the destroyed pink and white decorations from the enchantment ball, and the scent of burning cinnamon around, he watched as a blue troll downed two others with practiced ease.
Why would his brothers bring him here while an alpha was clearly fighting and winning. Impressive, purred his omega side, he's strong, he could keep us safe… again.
Branch didn't even realise he was releasing his scent, that he wanted the alpha to look as him, he didn't even try and hold back the trilling, which caused the alphas attention to be solely focused on him, yes.
Focus solely on the alpha in front of him, he didn't notice the others being pushed back as apple and fiery cinnamon invaded his nose, sinking into the warmth of the arms, cooing as the growling alpha brought them down to the floor, solid thighs where under him, he rubbed his paw against the blue cheeks, feeling the stiff bristles blonde hairs, pricking his paw pads, he like the feeling, purring was intermingling with growls, he needs comfort, he needs to focus on us, trailing a paw down the alphas arm he felt the sturdy muscles flexing in agitation.
'Sweet alpha' Branch cooed, petting the sturdy pelt, he felt a long scar, tracing it with a finger, 'strong alpha' feeling the rumbling purr from the alpha, he let his own loose, mixed with trills and coos. The apple and cinnamon mixed with peach and cinnamon of his own, he relaxed further into the heat of the alphas arms.
At feeling one of the arms loosen Branch quirked his head when felt something, A gift, looking at the small box that had been placed in his lap, he looked or tried to as the alpha had tucked himself into Branch's hair breathing deeply.
Lifting the lid of the box Branch found a simply decorated leather wristband, nothing over the top, the colours of the alpha holding him. Happy chirps erupted from him as he took in the band admiring the blue, green and red surrounding the yellow triple note in the centre.
Cooing caught the alphas attention he offered his right wrist for him to put the band on. Purring as the alpha took the hint and pleased when that rumbling purr turned to him the apple scent spiking again.
He's strong, skilled, whispered the omega side of Branch, he could keep us safe, happy, and give us family.
Family, that was what Branch desired most, after his grandmother died, he gave up hope of ever seeing his brothers again he was 21 and alone, except he wasn't, not anymore, he had his Mama and Baba, Coop & D, Uncle Lownote, they were his family now, was he allowed to want more.