As predicted, the leg shifting had been a brutal event for Tommy. It didn't help that their father had been far less lenient with the break taking. He pushed Tommy through each leg from start to finish despite the pained screams and sobs from the kid. Wilbur knew it was for the best of course. It was all for Tommy's best interests.

That didn't stop Techno from kicking them both out the second it was over.

They didn't even have a chance to look Tommy over after the shifting was done. When Phil tried he received a broken finger from Techno as he tore the mans hand off of Tommy's leg roughly.

It had been two days now since and neither Techno nor Tommy had left the room as far Wilbur could tell. Their father tried to bring in food, potions or other necessities, but he never could get in the actual door. Even walking past it would have Techno snarling in warning. Everything given was meekly left at the door itself, just inside where it would be reachable with little effort.

Even straining his ears Wilbur could barely hear the peeps from Tommy in the room. Usually they were quickly covered up by Techno's rumbling or muffled words. He couldn't make anything out though and getting closer was almost impossible.

He was currently nest bound by his father.

Even as grown as he was, because of his own imprinting he literally could not refuse a command from his father. Going to his own room or 'helping' around the house was strictly forbidden at the moment. At first Wil thought it was just so their father could more easily watch over him and his brothers in close proximity. However, he no longer believed that to be the case.

Their father, even on an average day, was a worrier. Add in actual reasons to worry and he could quickly become and absolute smothering 'mother-hen'. Something they usually teased the man about.

But Wilbur wasn't teasing this time around.

His father had been asking him questions lately, more than just keeping himself occupied while his brother's remained locked away. Phil, it would seem, was taking Wil's own imprinting as its own special sort of problem and Wilbur wasn't exactly in a state to talk it away, let alone lie.

It was when Phil mentioned the messed up bin in the kitchen that Wilbur really started to dread what his father was up to when out of sight. He was gone too long to just be cooking or potion making. That, and Wil swore he could hear things moving from below.

He was searching for something.

Wilbur couldn't remember where all his hiding spots were currently which made each visit from his father a mix of soothing to his nerves and also dread filled for what might be brought up. He could already feel the lack of sleep on the man. It rivaled the exhaustion from from Techno a whole room and hall away. It was getting to the point where he just wished Phil would ask him outright instead of trying to investigate first.

Its not like he'd deny much, if anything, very well in his circumstance.

With how he was feeling he...he didn't think he'd want to either.

But no. Instead his father was 'playing cool', taking care of him like he was just a kid again tucked in the blankets and pillows of the nest. The potion treatments for his ear were either handled with a soothing humming or conversation no deeper than 'the weather is better today'.

Wilbur wasn't even sure if he was more anxious or guilty by not bringing anything up himself. Instead, he just chose to spend his time staring at the door to Techno's room, waiting impatiently for any changes.

He wished he wasn't alone.

X—xXx-X

Phil let out a tense breath as he stared at the items on the counter. Behind him a pot bubbled away on the stove, though the contents inside barely a concern to him. What had his full attention was the rather specific set of substances and materials he'd dug up in the last few days.

A cracked glass jar now half empty of its dark inky contents, the missing portion staining the basement storage room floor. At least, he hoped that's where it all was. With it was a deeply stained old blanket that had, presumably, been its hiding place until now. Lastly were the three small bags of tiny quarts looking crystals he'd found in Wil's room itself.

It was all he had found so far but…

Running a hand down his face Phil tried to keep the thundering in his chest manageable.

He would need to be his calmest self when addressing Wilbur. Especially since the imprinting would make him particularly sensitive to anything deemed a scolding. His son, even as an adult, in this state any perceived judgment would be taken sharply to heart. Just like when he was a kid.

Even without the imprinting Wilbur had tended to be more susceptible to criticisms real or imagined.

Not that it stopped him from acting up of course, or...clearly doing other less than savory things. But, he took it hard when being called out or coming face to face with the consequences of his actions. Whether those consequences were to himself or others.

At its worst if he wasn't weighed down with his guilt then Wil would instead lash out. Harsh words or insults aimed to hurt any in his range. Not even Tommy was safe from the onslaught if Wil was feeling particularly raw. Though, thankfully it wasn't often Tommy was around for those such tantrums, or at least not long enough to feel that wrath aimed at him.

It was usually aim at Phil himself, deserved or not.

There had been one particularly rough fight between them in the last few years that had scared Phil a fair deal. The last time Phil had found him in possession of narcotics. It was the only time Wilbur tried to 'run away' instead of fighting or giving in. While in hindsight it was more of a half attempt it was no less scary for Phil. Wilbur had barely gotten two towns away before the crows found him and brought him back. Had he not been in such a...delicate state then-

But, Phil didn't think that would happen this time. Certainly not with an active imprint. Though Phil tried not to use the state against Wil if he could help it, he did what was needed to keep him safe.

What was needed, that was, except for keeping an eye on him it would seem.

Another bad habit Phil managed to miss.

The same bad habit no less.

In his own defense though Wilbur had been doing so well. He had been keeping himself busy with his music and with taking care of Tommy when Phil was busy. Even when Phil wasn't the two were often sneaking off together for some sort of mischief, usual 'boys will be boys' things. Like setting the town's fishing dock on fire, though that apparently was mostly Tubbo.

The two had been doing, to his understanding at the time, well enough that he himself had even begun to steadily do a few extra jobs for his wife over the last year. Nothing like he used to and never more than a week away if he could help it.

Though clearly he been sorely mistaken and the return of the Angel of Death had come too soon.

Perhaps if he had put it off a bit more...

He might not have been the best dad, but he never thought he was this bad as one either. He tried to be attentive and available to help with anything they needed. Stern when they needed to be disciplined or kept in line, but also open and understanding so that they wouldn't hesitate to come to him if they needed help. Not just help, but help without fear of being judged for it.

No matter what problem or trouble they get into.

Yet here he was, standing by as each of his sons suffered from something that could have been avoided had he just... been paying the proper attention. Been around more to notice anything, especially familiar things, going wrong.

Techno, after years now, had finally returned home and instantly fell into an instinct spiral around Tommy, his youngest who at the very least of things was suffering from Instinct Repression. Almost a mirror image of Techno himself not too long ago. Wilbur, whom he'd been leaving well in charge for the better part of the year, was apparently using again without his notice. Using something worse even then last time.

Phil sucked in a shaky breath and wiped at the tears as they escaped him. For all the love he tried to show and instill in his boys, and each of them ended up not only hurt, but hurting themselves. He was three for three on that and he just….he couldn't figure out where he'd gone so wrong. What could he have done differently or better to have avoided this?

He couldn't even try to ask his wife for help or support right now. He didn't have the time. He couldn't risk taking his eyes off of any of them. If he did, who knew what would happen next?

He couldn't risk them getting worse.

He couldn't risk losing them.

But he had no idea what to do to really help them either.

There were no quick fixes for this and he doubted all the soup or ice cream in the world would make much impact here. The only one he could talk to right now was Wilbur, and that was looking to be...a delicate matter the longer he considered it.

The hissing of the soup pot boiling over behind him made Phil jerk back into a stumble. Continuing to wipe at his eyes with one hand he quickly reached out with the other to deal with the food.

He didn't have time to throw himself a pity party right now. His sons needed food, Tommy and Wil would need more potions and Phil….Phil needed to prepare to talk to Wilbur.

X-xxx-X

Despite his best efforts Techno once more found himself growling under his breath as he heard footsteps outside his room door. He knew it was their father and he knew it was just about near the time the man would be bringing up food for him and Tommy.

Even after two days Techno wasn't exactly in a state to allow the man into the room with them. He'd been messaging Phil every so often with updates on Tommy and himself, but it was all he could do. Anything more then that and his Chat would start to rile and his protective urges threaten to blind him once more.

He already felt bad enough about breaking his father's finger the last time, though the man didn't seem to actually care. In fact, Phil had actually apologized to him about not having been careful enough given the situation between him and Tommy. While Techno didn't think that was true or necessary he didn't really know how to handle it.

He hated that their father felt the need to apologize. Techno didn't know how to even remotely comprehend what their father must be feeling or going through with all this. At first, when it was just an attack and some light kidnapping, that was rough enough but still manageable.

That...was no longer the case.

What was worse is that because of him their father couldn't even check on Tommy in person. All Phil could do was take Techno at his word and allow him to care for Tommy by proxy. It wasn't like when Wilbur came home with him that day. This wasn't some boundary to be tested with glares and a stern word. Tommy was imprinted on him and Techno was officially bound into 'Custodial Mode', which with his Brute bloodline included a 'stab first' mentality on anything not himself at the moment.

A symptom of having every protective and defensive instinct amped up to a constant screaming eleven more or less.

Wearing gold only helped enough for their father to stick his hand in the door to deliver what they needed. Even that was a testing ground each time with Techno needing to do his breathing exercises to maintain his composure.

He hadn't felt his instincts this strong since he was a kid and he could say he really hadn't been prepared for the back swing of them now. He had thought, after his Incident, that he had worked it all out. Gained control, safely this time.

Here he sat though, his brother resting in his lap as he ran his fingers through the blond locks that really could stand to be washed better. The nest Wilbur had constructed had been taken apart and re-tucked, this time with bits of gold trinkets or jewelry strewn in. Tommy himself sported a fair few gold rings that were honestly too large for his fingers, a few gold necklaces that weren't deemed 'too heavy' and a few small golden beads Techno had braided into his hair over time.

He would have decked Tommy out in more but...he didn't want to upset the injuries by accident.

Chat didn't approve, but at least seemed to understand.

Vaguely.

Tommy's hands, wrists and forearms were bandaged up carefully making them both look identical for the moment. However, Techno could still easily recall was what just below the fabric. One arm plucked bare, the other almost halfway there. The infections had been easily as bad as they looked too. If it had gone unchecked for much longer…

Tommy's immune system already wasn't the greatest, this could easily have spiraled into fatal territory. In order to keep this concealed over the last...he'd said three months. 'Just about' three months.

There was no way he wasn't taking something for it.

Sneaking a potion or two from their dads stash wouldn't be so hard. Their father wouldn't even question it, assuming something about rough play like when they were kids.

Tommy's legs had been worse. Everything from his ankle down was plucked and looked like it had been for some time by now. Lingering scars and a few small burns dotted around where his feathers should have been more abundant. It looked like a few tiny pin feathers were trying to come back, but they were barely poked up just yet. Thankfully keeping them from being removed as well it would seem.

On a more concerning note was that one of Tommy's talons had been very badly... 'trimmed'.

Now, Techno knew how hard it could be to handle nail maintenance and wanted to give the benefit of the doubt on it. Piglin nails and hooves were hardy, thick and generally needed a fair bit of strength to cut down or even file. By comparison Avian talons and claws were almost a complete opposite of that. Thin, frail and with the added trouble of having a more delicate 'quick', or blood vessel with nerves that lay within them.

Though Techno didn't have issues with his own, he remembered watching Wilbur struggled to learn how to manage his, including the times he messed it up.

By the look of it Tommy had gone far lower than he should have. As if he were….trying to get rid of the claw entirely. It looked like it had been hit with a potion a few times, but without being allowed to breath and air out it didn't get a chance to heal right. It was still badly discolored and looked like any sort of walking would be painful.

No wonder he had chosen to start wearing shoes. Techno was honestly shocked Tommy could even walk on it with how painful it looked. Human form or no.

With a sad chuff Techno sighed and reran his hand through Tommy's hair. His fingertips pausing briefly over one of his ears.

Two feathers looked like they had been pulled out but no more then that. Techno hoped it meant it had been abandoned considering how old the marks were.

It still made his skin crawl. It turned his stomach and sent more then a few shivers down his spine to think of the damage done, and apparently by Tommy himself. Though Techno hadn't confirmed that yet he...he dreaded needing to.

In all his memories of his baby brother he could see the white feathers bringing a smile to his face. He was constantly showing off any new one that popped up with pride even when he or Wilbur teased him for looking like a little chicken.

Now, Tommy was reaching the stage where his feathers should have been solidifying into their permanent hue. The vivid red of his wings suited him Techno thought. Tommy's ear tuffs were a mix with bright looking gold at the top that melted into red at the bottom giving the impression of a crown. With his unruly mop of blond around said tuffs it only added to the effect and made a part of Techno's instincts hum with added approval. As if nature had crowned Tommy with a far more natural gold than Techno could ever provide.

That thought was broken, though, as Techno tried to consider what color the feathers on the rest of him would have been. Would his brothers far too pale arms have been outlined with the flash of red like the wings on his back? Or would there have been tipped gold giving the effect of bracelets that Techno even now wished he could place there?

None of them would ever know now.

Letting out another distressed chuff Techno felt Tommy shifting against him. A groggy peep slipping past his lips as he tried to pick his head up.

"shh, go back to sleep, tommy." Techno whispered, gently nudging Tommy's head back down with his hand.

He gave a few short scritches to further coax the other back into slumber, but Tommy didn't give in right away. Instead he let out a disoriented groan, the flittering peeps soft on the air between them.

"it's okay. don't worry about it. you're still recoverin' and should rest some more." Techno tried to explain simply as he moved to rest his chin on Tommy's head, hoping to encourage a snuggle and his return to sleep.

What little stubbornness might have tried to peek out was quickly quashed as Tommy allowed himself to fall limp against Techno's chest. His arms curled up a bit more between them, snug and warm and protected.

"we can try talkin' tomorrow. just a bit. we can keep it simple, just 'yes' or 'no' things." Techno suggested, mostly talking to himself as a way to sooth his brother into slumber.

While Wilbur had the benefit of music to help him put their brother to bed Techno had always found talking was good enough for him. Though, back then it had been old stories or tales, he found now that just speaking in general in a low and slow manner was enough for Tommy. He didn't know if it would be the same in more...normal circumstances but...they would have time to learn.

He wanted to take that time learn.

X—XxX—X

Phil watched as Wilbur struggled to eat even the barest amount of the soup that had been provided for his lunch. While he very much wanted to cook the boy something more solid he...he could see that wasn't in the cards right now. Originally it had been because both he and Tommy were sick but...but now he knew...more.

It was more apparent at the very least that however Wilbur had been getting rid of his food lately it hadn't been from eating it. Since his elder son had been moved into the nest there had been a sharp increase of the food left behind in the bowl.

Phil wasn't sure if that mean Wil was tossing it the whole time while downstairs, or if perhaps his ability to down anything had gotten harder. Though, if this were anything like prior events there was probably a former air pocket between the house foundation and the dirt outside that was now well saturated in broth and soggy bread.

Wilbur himself barely nibbled at his current bread and with hardly a spoonful of soup down after the last thirty minutes.

As much as he wanted, needed, Wilbur to eat something, he wasn't cruel.

Leaning over with a sigh Phil took hold of the food tray and move it from Wil's lap over to the dresser instead. Wilbur barely made a noise at it being taken, the pale look on his face showing the start of apprehension already.

There was no point in dragging this out further.

Situating himself on the corner of the bed just outside the nest Phil let out a heavy sigh. When he brought his gaze to meet Wilbur's he could see a mix of anxiousness as well as some kind of resignation resting in his faded brown eyes already. The spark or tinge of chaotic energy that usually rested there had tapered off leaving a far more shallow impression behind.

"Wilbur, we need to talk." Phil began as he tried to keep his voice calm but firm.

The mixed look on Wil's face didn't dissipate, but instead was shaded over with a sort of relief. The sort of relief a person might find in knowing some burden was about to be taken from them. Phil had seen it on many people when he came for them. It used to give him a contented feeling in his work, knowing there were some who understood the peace they were about to enter into.

It wasn't that great a feeling coming from his son. Not at the moment. Not for this.

Without another word Phil pulled from his pocket one of the small bags of quartz-ish crystals and placed it on the fold of blanket between them. Wilbur winced and found his gaze resting on his knee instead, but his fist was clenched tight and shaking. He had been shivering a fair bit in the last few days, but this was more of a tremble.

"you're using again." Phil stated plainly into the room, his voice far softer than before as if it could take the sting out of the words.

It still caused a fresh shiver to pass down Wil's body before his son managed a slow singular nod of admittance.

"its Blue." Phil added a moment later.

Despite that being already obvious Wilbur nodded once more to confirm it.

The silence in the air was stifling and for a moment Phil worried if Wil was even bothering to breath.

"wil-"

"its not a lot." Wilbur offered weakly before he could say more.

" 'Not a lot'? Wil, this stuff-"

"I promise. It wasn't a lot. A-and just when I thought I needed it. Only a little-" Wilbur fell into his defense, voice unsteady and rapid but never rising in volume.

"Wilbur, you know what that stuff does to Phantoms." Phil admonished trying to keep the dismay from showing through, "You know what its made of and what it can do. H-how could you think to put your body through that? To put any part of you through that?"

Wilbur swallowed up his words then, only hanging his head in shame in response.

"Wil" Phil tried as he leaned forwards to try to catch his sons eyes.

Wilbur didn't raise his head, prompting the man to scoot closer.

"Wilbur." He called again, this time bringing a hand up to rest gently on the mans cheek.

"Wilbur, look at me. Please." Phil attempted once more, hoping it would be enough and he wouldn't have to use Wil's imprinted state to get a reply.

Just a small trill to get him to look up-

Wil barely pressed his head into the offered hand but didn't make to raise it or move it from its bowed position. Phil could already feel the huffed breaths coming out warning of coming tears.

" i-i just" Wilbur barely breathed out with a tremor, " -just needed a blittleb."

"Wil-" Phil broke off as he finally let out a soothing trill, calling his son closer to him for comfort.

Wilbur fell against him with a sob as Phil brought him close in a hug, wings wrapping around him protectively.

This was nothing like the last time Phil had this type of conversation with him.

The last time Wilbur had been full of denials. Angry bitter denials in the face of proof Phil had managed to find that time too. Wilbur had fought tooth and nail to avoid taking responsibility or even an admitting to it. Wil had fled from him then, a half hearted flee.

His crows had found him in an hour.

The two had argued for hours still once he was back home before Wilbur finally relented giving a weak 'perhaps' for it being his, but still insistent that it 'wasn't a problem'. It had dragged on so long and a lot of things had been said between them at the time.

When it finally had settled it was with Wilbur under house arrest by their father and kept away from Tommy until his system was clear of the substance. Phil had made stronger than normal potions to help it along, and to ensure the process was as painless as he could get it. He was disappointed in his sons choices but he still didn't want his son in pain, especially if it made recovery harder.

Neither of them wanted Tommy to know of it.

That time...Wil's drug of choice then hadn't been great but...it wasn't this. Blue was an entirely different ordeal. Especially for Wilbur.

Blue was a starkly more potent psychoactive opioid that was made from the blood of Phantoms. True Phantoms, not hybrids. The similar make up though is what served to make it more dangerous for those hybrids. Unlike with others the drug tended to bind in Phantom hybrids specifically in a way that caused a disturbing number of harsh health issues when used.

Even short term use could cause complications or damage, especially if the person using it had...other conditions. Being a former addict Wilbur had an added weakness to him on top of his genetics making his use of Blue incredibly unsafe.

There was no 'weening' process or healing aid that would be much use to a Phantom hybrid here. Withdrawals were hardly better than the effects and in severe cases had been enough to cause fatalities.

Whatever Wilbur's 'not a lot' was, Phil doubted it was small enough to be worth the price.

Phil could only hug his son all the tighter as he sobbed. As they both did. Even as Phil tried to croon calmingly for his son he could still feel Wil's stutter for breath. Could feel him shuddering in tears against him as he whimpered out words far past being audible.

It broke his heart.

x-x-x—x—x-x-x

-.-

x-x-x—x—x-x-x

Despite Techno's assurances of 'tomorrow we can talk' he had continued to push it off until Tommy was able to be properly awake for more than an hour at a time. He was, after all, well aware of the amount of rest and recovery this stage needed. Another few days of sleep was no problem and, in fact, highly encouraged.

The only downside was that it gave Techno that much more time to think to himself. Well, as much to 'himself' as he could get with Chat whispering in his ear now and again. Though they weren't as loud as he was used to.

Just like those first few days he was home they were quieter than normal. As if they too were enjoying the peace in his old room.

Peace.

In a sense.

His room had once been a sanctuary, sure, as well as his prison. On the one hand he was surrounded by his family here. His brother's love and his father's protection. They cared for him openly and he had always cared for them deeply in turn. Though… perhaps not as openly.

It had always felt, at the time, that he couldn't leave his room ever without someone being there. Their father, his twin, or Tommy. Always someone that wanted his attention even when he just wanted some solitude. Some alone time that didn't have him cooped up behind four walls and a door.

Even simple activities soon became group activities instead as one or both his brothers found themselves at his side. As annoying as it could be he...he did love that they wanted to be around him.

At least...he mostly felt that way.

At first.

Over time though it...was more problematic than appreciated.

It had certainly made it harder for when he started...doing exactly as Tommy had. Forcing his instincts to quiet, swallowing sounds that weren't passably human and...refusing to let his physical traits show as much as he could help it.

It had started with his hands. Using the excuse of working the forge or practicing with his sword. Mostly solo activities that needed 'better grip' than his hybrid ones offered. His promises to 'rest' them after were given but never followed through. Something that, to this day, he regretted immensely.

The thought of a freshly made crude sword on the basement wall made Techno's stomach turn now. How long had Tommy kept his own hands shifted after that? Or before it? Had their father reminded him as well? Only to be brushed off just as quickly?

While home and constantly with his family at his side Techno could never really go long without shifting back into his Piglin body. He would manage a few days in a row, maybe a week if he were careful. But he had always been needed.

It didn't get bad until he'd cut himself off from home. From his family. His sounder. He'd made his choice and, with much effort, left for the city at eighteen for his first official debut in the Hypix League.

He told himself it was what he wanted. What was best for his family and for himself. He could use the arena to train himself better. To get stronger. His hopes of becoming successful, of learning to 'master' his hybrid side completely-

If his father hadn't come for him-

Techno took a deep unsettled breath as the old guilt resurfaced.

The look on his fathers face coming back to him vividly.

It had been two months since he'd allowed any of them to see him at that point. The pain in his forced human legs and hands radiated up his arms and back to the point that even walking up to and opening his door at the time had taken almost all his will power.

His father's face had paled sharply, his smile practically evaporating.

The swap to human hands was something Techno had well been capable of. Human legs...Techno had fought tooth and nail with his own body to get them despite its protests. They weren't perfect and never could be. His own form was never meant to go that far. He had almost broken himself to get them, so close to how his brother's and father could get theirs.

He could have hurt himself-

He did.

He did hurt himself.

Even with his father's help to change them back there were….there were days where they ached out of the blue. It would last for random amounts of time before receding. No real physical marker of his mistake, but his body would never let him forget it.

Brushing a tentative finger along one of Tommy's wrists, knowing the bareness that lay beneath the bandage…

His body would never let him forget it either.

What Techno still couldn't seem to understand is how it could have gotten so bad. He'd had to leave home to get even barely two months worth of damage done to himself. Yet Tommy, in the middle of their own home, had managed three with...with no one around him noticing.

He would never blame his family but...he just...he didn't understand. What, in the last five years could possibly have happened them?

A peep from Tommy brought Techno out of his head quickly.

Worried he'd pressed too hard Techno began to withdraw his hand from his brother's wrist. Before he could get far though, Tommy's own hand was resting on it, fingers curling lazily around his wrist in turn. With a sluggish maneuver Tommy tugged at the hand until he was able to tuck it just under his cheek, snuggling into it without so much as opening an eye.

It brought out a fresh contented chuff and a purr from Techno as he leaned down to press his snout into Tommy's hair.

He had missed this.

Their nap time cuddles.

Though, at the moment they were rather...full time.

Every time Techno had tried to move Tommy into the blankets directly or to adjust him to be on the cushions Tommy had insisted on crawling back to where he started. Directly in Techno's lap and arms with his head placed on his chest and almost directly under his chin.

Just like when they were kids.

The instances where Techno had had no choice but to set his brother down to change his bandages or clothing had been practically like a punishment for Tommy. When Techno could convince him to hold still long enough to finish his work Tommy would instead whine, cheep and chirp his distress until it was over. Even when being walked through what Techno was doing Tommy would only insist they return to cuddles.

According to him the care could happen 'later'.

Something Techno was sure Tommy knew wasn't the case. However, his hindbrain only knew of its demand for comfort and safety. Tommy, right now, would say just about anything to get those needs met.

It was one of the major reasons Techno was also putting off their conversations.

Even with Tommy able to verbalize words, his answers could easily be marred with the bias of his instincts. Tommy would have to put up with easily weeks, if not longer, of this compulsive behavior. Even if he wanted to answer anything truthfully that 'truth' could be perceived differently outside of this haze as opposed to in it.

Threats that weren't really threats or slights that weren't really slights. Techno had his fair understanding how fast those lines blurred in the heat of it.

Unfortunately those lines didn't always...un-blurr in a timely fashion afterwards.

Even when it came time to shift back to human for basic care, that didn't erase those lines or what steps might have been taken across them.

For Tommy, with his suppression... the dam on his instincts now was broken. It would not be shelved back so easily until his hindbrain got the attention and care needed to re-stabilize himself. To feel safe. The time that could take, considering how long he'd been holding it down, wasn't really set to be a short sprint.

Baby steps, patience and...Techno didn't even know what else. When it had been him-

He wasn't sure how he managed it, but he had convinced their father not to bring him home. Pleaded with the man not to let his siblings see him like that. Promised to do better, message and call more. He had even agreed to get an emotional support animal.

Carl was doing well and caring for him honestly did keep Techno in a better head space even on his worse days.

Chat loved Carl too.

Tommy would probably do well with a pet. Techno could probably easily convince their father to get him one. Something sturdy.

Of course, that would be a long way from now. Tommy couldn't even stand on his own if he wanted to and he certainly didn't seem to want to. In a few weeks though, when it got to a point of Tommy wanting more of his space again they would have to take time to ensure his foot or legs could handle it. Of course Techno would have to make sure he wasn't trying to force it-

An apologetic peep from Tommy brought Techno into the moment a second time.

He lifted his eyes up from the hand currently being used as a pillow to see the smallest peek of blue from Tommy's own. It was only one of them and it still looked hazy with sleep but still more present than the last few times he'd 'woken'.

" 'm sry' " Tommy weakly slurred, words punctuated by an even smaller cheep than before.

"nothing to be sorry for." Techno gently assured as he tried not to worry about how soft Tommy's breath sounded.

" 'm be'n cli'gy" Tommy fuzzily tried to explain himself, as if it would change Techno's answer.

"you're seekin' comfort, tommy. its normal. you're fine."

There was a pause here as the two continued to stare idly at one other. Slow languid cogs seeming to turn in Tommy's head.

"… i stol' yu'r 'and"

Techno couldn't stop the smile that tugged his lips as he let out a short amused breath.

"you can keep it. its yours now." He replied, once more brushing his snout over Tommy's curls and giving an extra rumble in his chest for good measure.

He could feel Tommy's hand squeeze his wrist briefly as if confirming it was, in fact, there.

"its okay, tommy." Techno promised as he placed a kiss to his brother's head, "you're safe and i'm here. i'm not leavin', i promise."

The heavy breath that left Tommy at those words, it was like he had been holding it this whole time just to hear them.

Closing his eye once more Tommy re-snuggled his face into his brother's hand without another word. He brought a wing up to lay crookedly on Techno's shoulder before allowing his body to sag back down with sleep, a contented sigh passing his lips. The end was marked by a pleased trill, soft but satisfied with their current set up.

Even if Tommy wasn't extending his wing fully out just yet, the gesture of trying to bring Techno under it with him was-

With his hands fully occupied Techno couldn't wipe the tears pricking at his eyes. He could only hope that as they fell they wouldn't land somewhere it would wake his brother.

He didn't want to know if it was the imprint or Tommy's real trust for him. For now, for both their sakes, he would cherish it all the same. Curling himself down smaller he tried to fit all the more in that precious space.

x-x-X-X-X-X-X-x-x

In the week that followed the tensions in the house seemed to lessen as far as Techno was aware. It had been touch and go for a while, but a sort of balance had come about that at least allowed for communication with their father again. It mostly had to take place through the door, but it was better than nothing.

They had tried once the day prior to allow Phil into the room to see Tommy himself, but it had turned into a short visit. Tommy had been anxious which had made Techno anxious which had, of course, kicked off a panic response in Techno in the end.

It wasn't violent like his protective side tended to draw out thankfully, but it still didn't allowed Phil close access to Tommy longer than those first fifteen minutes. After the man had been removed from the room Techno had Tommy back in his lap as he fussed over anything that Phil had touched.

Something Tommy and his hindbrain seemed to equally approve of as he sat contently in place and easily complied with any directives given about what arm to hand over when. The satisfied peeps were hardly audible over the sound of Techno's somewhat frazzled chuffing as he compulsively looked his brother over.

By the time Techno had managed to settle himself back down his father had left him a fair number of messages on his communicator. Some where instructions of what else to look for while most were just checking to see if he was okay.

An improvement at the very least.

One they could work with certainly.

Since then the two had done their best to keep each other informed via messages or careful chats through the door. Even Tommy managed to get in an awkward few words when he felt up to it.

The only one not taking part in the talking was Wilbur.

According to their father Wilbur had, apparently, over stressed himself into a fresh cold. Which is why he had, against Phil's initial desires, been moved back into his own room. The cooler temperatures being better for his recovery.

It also meant less traffic outside the door to stress Techno out with subconsciously.

He wasn't alone though. Their father had all but moved into the room with Wil so that his own imprint needs could be properly tended to. Phil only daring to leave when Wil slept in order to tend to Techno and Tommy.

Worried about Wilbur none the less Techno insisted he could take care of Tommy just fine on his own. Their father had seemed torn at the thought, but once Techno teased they each had a nestling that needed care, he relented with a strained chuckle. Especially when Tommy let out an indignant squawk in turn.

At the very least, Techno had added, it meant he could do half the cooking and give them all something solid for a change. With a 'fuck off' from Phil the three managed a laugh and the conversation seemed settled.

Since then Techno hadn't seen or heard from their father at all. Instead of making him worried though, it only made him feel more at ease. That would mean his brother was getting the mans full attention as he needed it. As he deserved it.

One of their father's greater flaws was his need to help everyone at once despite how thin that could stretch him out-

"is it that bad?" Tommy asked anxiously, his foot squirming in Techno's hand, "you've been starin' for ages."

The worried chirp Tommy tried to swallow down came back twice over making Techno glance up at him with a raised brow. Tommy gave an annoyed huff but allowed the next, more apologetic, cheep out without incident.

"was just askin' " Tommy mumbled as he crossed his arms, body fidgeting openly.

Techno sighed as he realized he had sort of zoned off mid thought from earlier. He had been checking up on the formerly infected talon that had been so brutally cut however long ago. It was doing better, but wasn't out of the woods entirely just yet.

"Its not 'that bad', but its probably best to retreat it with disinfectant and a potion in another day or so." Techno answered keeping his voice from betraying his lingering upset at the state of it, "Its healin'."

Tommy nodded keeping his eyes low and only on Techno's hands as he worked. Their eye contact had dropped off a fair bit once Tommy managed to shake the haze of sleep off him. It hurt, but Techno wasn't going to pressure him to keep it going.

They could work back up to that.

"...I'm going to trim these." Techno informed his brother as he tapped one of his non-damaged talons, "One less thing to worry about later."

"I can do it." Tommy tied to insist, though it was halfhearted at best.

"I know you can, but I'm going to do it this time." Techno stated patiently as he reached for the small clippers and checked them briefly for sharpness.

He didn't want to make Tommy feel like he wasn't trusted, but...at the same time...that wound didn't cause itself.

Besides, Techno wanted to check the brittleness of those talons. That and...he kind of liked taking care of his brother. It used to be his job after all, when their father was busy. Wilbur hated nail clipping and Techno ended up doing it for the both of them just to be sure it was done and done right.

Just like when they were younger Techno took special care as he worked. Especially so as he could see Tommy flinch with each little click from the clippers.

He was swift so as not to draw it out, but also not so fast as to risk causing cracking on the delicate talons. They were already softer than he thought they should be, even for an Avian. The fact that even the 'healthy' ones flaked worried him.

At the very least Techno was going to need to add more eggs into Tommy's diet for a while.

The silence between them lingered as Techno continued. Sadly it was no longer the comfortable sort from when Tommy had been sleeping peacefully. There was a strange awkwardness to the air that hinted to Techno that it was just about time to start in with the more...heavy conversations.

Before he could consider where or when to even start it was Tommy that brought them back out of the quiet moment.

"i'm sorry." He began timidly, hands anxiously picking at the fabric of his shirt.

"for what?" Techno asked, mostly matching Tommy's volume without pause.

"for...making you deal with…that/b." Tommy explained softly, trying and failing not to twitch his damaged claw, " its...gross"

"First, you aren't 'makin' me deal with anything." Techno tried to remind him as he looked over the last talon that needed attention, "Second, I'm not the person you should be apologizin' to."

Tommy grew instantly quiet after that allowing Techno to finish up and even do a final check of each nail. It wasn't until he realized how long it was lasting that Techno looked up. Tommy had his gaze trained down at his hands, worrying the fabric of his shirt more than before.

He must have felt Techno's eyes on him because Tommy started to speak again. Forced sounding but still as quiet as before.

" i didn't want him to ask about it." He admitted, which confused Techno.

Furrowing a brow Techno made said confusion known with a tilt of his head and a questioning grunt.

" i didn't want him mad at me." Tommy added turning his head further away.

"who are you talkin' about?" Techno verbally asked as Tommy's answers were not exactly clarifying.

It took a moment and Tommy shook out a guilty breath before he looked back towards Techno. Towards him, but not at him. Not at first. It took another anxious few seconds for him to raise his head up enough to at least look at Techno's chin.

"dad."

The word hung in the air and Techno felt that ever familiar squeeze at his heart.

"Tommy…" Techno began, a short keening noise whining out of him as he carefully dared to place a hand on the youngers chin, raising it slightly, "I wasn't talkin' about dad."

He didn't bring Tommy's head up too much, just high enough that the distance between their line of sight would be easier to cross. He waited a beat, hoping Tommy would take the opening as it was, but when he didn't he kept going regardless.

"I was talking about you." He explained with a sense of urgency he hoped Tommy would understand.

At first Tommy appeared entirely caught off guard before his expression shifted into a sort of bitter grimace. As if he had already made up his mind and didn't care for it being questioned.

"I mean it, Tommy." Techno pressed on before Tommy could form a word to disagree with him, "These injuries, this- this damage- You didn't deserve this. You don't deserve this pain that- …that you caused yourself."

Even with lowering his voice the words being said aloud stung. It cut out the question of 'If' Techno knew it was by Tommy's own hands or some 'other' assailant. Whatever, or whomever, it was that had set the thought in his brother's head...it was still Tommy that had gone through with it.

And now Tommy would know that he knew that.

Considering how much his brother's shoulders curled forwards over himself, his wings closing in as well, he had not been certain before. Techno had now ripped the proverbial bandage off of this one and left them both sitting in an uncomfortable silence for the time being, letting it sink in.

As the tension ticked on Tommy opened his mouth to respond at one point, but ended up closing it again fruitlessly. Techno waited patiently as he set the clippers down, his work with them done for now.

"it-it was just a nail." Tommy weakly stated, as if Techno wasn't already aware of...everything else.

"' 'just a nail'? Tommy, even if that were true, it isn't something that should have happened." Techno tried, really tried, to explain calmly.

It was certainly a task as Chat had started to speak up their own protest at Tommy's words.

"It was nothing, okay? It was my own fault for not doing it right." Tommy snapped back with, an uneasy scowl on his face.

"Not doing what right? Because we both know you can trim them just fine." Techno humored for the moment, though tensely.

"It-its none of your business." Tommy tried to insist, opting for backpedaling instead of explaining anything more clearly.

It wasn't overly effective though and was undercut as his hindbrain was pushing out apology cheeps every few words.

"I just, I didn't do it right and I know it okay? So I deserved-"

"Didn't do what 'right' exactly?" Techno cut in sharply, unable to hold his tongue nor keep up the pitiful front Tommy had chosen to go with, "And why exactly would you 'deserve' this because of it? Do you know what kind of effects this is going to have on you?"

"It's just a nail!" Tommy insisted once more, his voice cracking with a tremor at the end.

"We both know this isn't just about your 'nail', Tommy. That's barely even touching -"

"What does it matter?! If its my nail, my foot or anywhere else on me!" Tommy's voice was strained now under his rising emotions and his efforts in choking down the chirps his body desperately wanted to voice.

Techno couldn't help the frustrated growl that coated his next words as his own anger flared up.

"Do you realize this is bpermanentb?! This isn't like giving yourself a bad haircut, Tommy! This is-"

At the sound of a sharp panicked trill Techno snapped his mouth shut.

Before him Tommy sat shaking, shoulders slouched and forwards as distressed apologetic cheeps bubbled from his lips uncontrollably. His brother had raised his hands up to cover his mouth but the noises were still well audible. From their current position and proximity Techno could also see Tommy's eyes had dilated a fair bit. They weren't as hazed over as they had been days prior, but it was still notable.

The look of fear and regret on Tommy's face was enough to erase all thought or desire for Techno to continue his lecture.

With a rush of guilt Techno realized his outburst had tripped Tommy's Baby Bird instinct. His hindbrain was attempting to run damage control and was currently causing him to become a placating mess.

Like a Shoat begging for forgiveness.

Despite Tommy's attempts to hold himself back his arms were still actively attempting to peel from his control and reach for Techno. A pained whine, brittle and pleading drew itself out under the chirps as Tommy began to sob outside his control.

Techno, of course, was swift in rising to his feet and scooping Tommy up, hugging him tightly to his chest. He tucked Tommy under his chin and ruffled his snout into his hair to signal his forgiveness.

He could feel his brother trembling against him still and hear muffled words of regret and apology. Even with the forgiveness already given the panic Tommy felt wasn't so easily quenched. His hindbrain, desperate to avoid his guardians ire, was doing all it could to sooth the assumed slight.

It wouldn't stop until it believed it was safe from further reprimand or possible rejection. Until it believed he was truly forgiven.

As if somehow, at some point, it had been denied such in the past and feared it happening again.

Techno gave a further apologetic keening of his own as he gave his brother a tighter hug. He hadn't meant to cause this he just...he couldn't stand to hear his brother talk like that.

About himself like that.

To even suggest that-

Techno had to stop the thoughts before he worked himself up further. He focused on rumbling out a deep purr to help ease Tommy back into calmness. The last thing he wanted was for Tommy to feel he needed to hide behind pleas or begging to gain or keep his protection or affection.

"*I'm sorry, Tommy. I'm sorry. Shhh, its okay.*" Techno whispered out in Piglin as he continued to nuzzle in his brother's hair, "*You're not in trouble. Safe. bSafeb. I promise.*"

X-

Scared again

Baby bird

So small

Upset

Need to calm him down

Too worked up

He could get sick again

Softer breathing

X-

Techno pushed the voices out of focus for the time being as they weren't being particularly helpful. He didn't have the extra capacity at the moment to try to redirect them either.

Right now he just wanted to get Tommy settled down again. He could practically feel his brother's rapid heart beat as he tried to rub soothing circles on his back between his wings. Could feel it despite the rumbling from his own chest as he offered his best soothing purr.

Aside from adding words of assurance every few moments there wasn't much else for Techno to do. The only thing left was to wait out the panic response and give Tommy time to breathe.

He just needed Tommy to breathe.

This, right here, was just another reason why Techno had always hated the hard-wiring of their instincts.

Even knowing now and understanding that this level of reaction was not normal, it only helped so much. He just could never stand how it always seemed to make his brothers' so...small.

Both Wilbur and Tommy.

Small and fragile and...always so scared looking.

Unlike Techno who would instead seem to suddenly fill a room no matter its size. A wall of muscle, anger and an obstinacy worthy of his Piglin blood.

According to Wilbur at least.

After one of their bigger fights where Wil had admitted to being afraid of him at its height. Though Wil assured him it was only a moment and it didn't mean anything it...it did.

It made Techno feel all the more aware of his own presence around them when like this.

And… sometimes even long after.

His taller and bulkier form always seemed able to loom over them. Even with his desire and drive to protect them Techno always worried that, somehow, he might end up hurting them.

He had, too, a few times growing up. Though it was usually Wilbur or their father.

He had feared the day it might be Tommy.

So, he had learned to careful. He learned to be delicate in handling them in any way he could. Even then the fear of messing up was ever present. He couldn't grab or lift them too carelessly, or Prime forbid actually roughhousing during play or sparring.

So of course it was him raising his voice that did it now.

It was one of the few things he thought, within reason, that he could relax about. Shouting matches and arguments were normal among the three of them.

But this wasn't a normal circumstance and Tommy, now more than ever, was in a tender state. So much of Avian signaling and communication was auditory and Techno, somehow, had forgotten that. Piglins were more gesture based, using body language with direct speech, but that was hardly an excuse.

Looking down at his bother in his arms Techno gave another reassuring chuff.

By now the initial rush of it seemed to have passed at least. Tommy wasn't crying anymore and aside from a few short peeps he was almost silent. There was still the occasional shiver traveling through him but even that seemed to be ebbing off slowly.

Techno could only hope that would mean his brother would fully relax again soon. As he waited he brought a hand up to gently run along the edge of his brother's wing. When Tommy failed to flinch or pull away he took that as a good sign.

At least, half of a good sign.

Tommy had brought one of his wings forward to shield himself once Techno had pulled him into his lap.

Specifically over himself.

Which was an easier task than usual as Tommy's Avian form was three inches shorter than his lanky human one. The move itself was small, but it showed that while Tommy's fists might be tightly clenched in Techno's shirt now, he wasn't invited under wing.

Not this time.

Watching his brother remain tucked under said wing more or less fetal style Techno couldn't help but to notice, aside from his own heartache, just how small Tommy looked. And he didn't think it was from nostalgia this time.

X-

Runt

X-

Techno couldn't help but nod in agreement at the word. The voices were whispering it almost together now that Tommy seemed less upset.

Not wanting to stress his brother further Techno decided a small nap wouldn't hurt. They were already cuddled up after all. Tommy could use it to dodge a bit longer and Techno could use it to put Tommy more at ease. Which was arguably the more important part.

Chat was in full agreement.

If he used it to also sooth the pain and hurt in his own heart then that was for only him to know.

Xx-.-xX

Tommy didn't know how long his 'episode' had lasted, but by the time he had woken up Techno had moved them both into the nest again. By how groggy and sluggish he felt it must have been a few hours at least.

Either that or he'd fully overreacted and worked himself into exhaustion.

It must have been the case because he didn't think Techno would willingly let him sleep away the conversation otherwise. He couldn't really verify how bad he had gotten in the end though. Once his hindbrain kicked in fully his foremind had grown foggy, his memories were more patchwork then he cared for.

He could feel how sore his throat was though so at least he could confirm he'd been a loud bastard about it.

Of course he had been.

Usual 'Tommy' move.

Loud.

Obnoxious.

And dramatic for no reason.

He couldn't even get into an argument with his- with Techno- without his instincts putting him into 'baby mode' for pity points.

He was big man Tommy Danger Kraken Innit Craft, he should be well able to handle yelling at literally anyone. He should be able to tell anyone to 'fuck off' and mean it. Or go where he liked, when he wanted, and talk to whoever the hell he pleased.

He should-

He should be able to live how he wanted. As what he wanted.

Especially after he worked so hard for it.

He-

He should be able to stand and walk without his legs shaking or feet feeling like they were on fire. Should be able to wear long sleeves for comfort and not because the skin on his arms itched and ached and looked wrong.

He should be able to- to push his brother's arms from around him and- and walk out of the room.

To leave and go to his own room like a normal person.

Should be able to think about it without shaking at the mere thought of being too far from his Protector-

Tommy sucked in a startled breath as a hand came to rest at the back of his head.

Solid and steady.

It gently slid up and pulled forwards until Tommy's forehead was once more tucked against his brother's chest. Despite his trembling his brother's hand remained stable like anchor. He could feel his brother's fingers carefully moving through his curls, nails just barely tracing soothing lines against his skull.

There was a soft chuff above him as well as a few Piglin words carefully spoken.

"*Safe. Sleep. Safe*"

Tommy wanted to shake his head, but the feeling of fingers in his hair felt...really nice.

He- he wanted to stay awake.

Wanted to- to-

"*Calm. I'm here.*"

The words were slightly sluggish themselves, but still felt solid.

Like the hand on his back.

In soothing circles-

"*Safe.*"

Tommy opened his mouth for some sort of protest even as his body around him went lax. The last he heard was a contented peep leave him as a small weight pressed itself to the top of his head.

Xx-x-xX

Techno held back an anxious grumble as he stood facing the wall in his brother's room.

The second time Tommy had woken he had insisted on being brought into his own room until Techno eventually gave in. He had wanted, for some reason, to change his clothes and was all but bent on the idea. Techno had tried to tell him it wasn't necessary as he'd not only recently changed but was also due for a proper bath soon anyway.

According to Tommy in his own colorful words they were 'his fucking clothes to dirty if he wants to'. There were a bit more words then that, but, it was the general idea.

Techno had tried to help him at first but Tommy had very sharply told him off for it. While Techno could see him fighting his hindbrain on the matter he wasn't going to force his brother. Tommy would have to learn that fighting his instincts now would only make them fight back harder.

It would be a long and hard lesson, but it was one he had to figure on his own in the end.

What had gotten Techno banished to watching the wall was his apparently very unwelcomed commentary on his 'sparring scars'. Techno wasn't even sure that was what they were, but, Tommy had insisted.

At the very least they weren't self inflicted and that was one of the most painful senses of relief Techno had ever felt.

Taking it at face value, for the time being, as sparring injuries then whomever Tommy was facing off with was far too brutal for Techno's liking. He didn't want to assume a lack of skill on this other persons part but….the wounds weren't exactly clean hits.

More of a worry, however, was that Techno knew Tommy wasn't bad enough to let himself get hit so often either.

Apparently asking Tommy if he forgot how to block was a sore spot though, and now here he was. Staring at the peeling paint on the wall while he listen to his younger brother struggle to dress himself behind him.

The silence in the room had been tense for the last five minutes and it only made the anxiety in Techno's chest grow.

Tommy still wasn't able to stand on his own yet and so the thought of his brother sitting so precariously on the edge of the bed fighting with a pair of pants was less than ideal. At least if it were shorts or something it would be an easy process.

So, of course Tommy had insisted on pants.

Techno didn't want to judge his brother's choices, but, he was really making this so much harder on himself. Whatever point he was trying to make, either to himself or to the rest of them, it wasn't worth what he was currently putting himself through.

It hadn't been worth it for him.

"You sure you don't want-"

"-I'm fine." Tommy cut in curtly.

Techno sighed inwardly at the response despite having expected it. He frowned, however, when he heard the small whine attempting to be smothered behind him.

"Stop doing that." He warned bluntly with only a mild attempt to keep the edge from his voice.

Another bad habit that Tommy seemed bent on keeping around was the suppression of his Avian vocals. For every one he would 'allow' out he would then do his damnedest to smother the next two. Or more if he could manage it.

It was quickly becoming the most common scolding he gave to Tommy.

Judging by the freshly freed apology peep his tone had been well heard. By the lack of actual words from his younger brother it was not well accepted.

It, again, was no surprise to Techno. Having ones instincts used to in behavior management was less than a happy experience. It was probably less so for Tommy who had already so clearly made it known this...bond of theirs was not exactly intended.

He probably would have preferred Wilbur.

They were much closer after all.

But, he wasn't Wilbur.

He was Techno and he knew, regardless of Tommy's feelings on the matter, that he had no choice but to use his position as Protector in the imprint to correct poor behavior. Harmful behavior. Hopefully before there were any further permanent effects.

He would work on it slowly though. No commands or orders to ingrain into Tommy. He would only correct in bursts until Tommy changed his actions himself. If...if it came down to something more serious then, well...he would have to make a harder choice. For now, though, he would keep things small and manageable.

He wanted Tommy to learn, not be trapped.

"you're grumbling." Tommy pointed out quietly from behind Techno.

It was Techno's turn to tense up now. He had, in fact, been grumbling out a low frustrated grunt as he mulled his thoughts over silently to himself. Well, 'silently'.

Without thinking Techno sucked in a breath and swallowed the sound down. Considering the atmosphere already the noise was probably setting Tommy on edge. Perhaps even stressing him into feeling further scolded.

He wasn't sure how sensitive he needed to be right now and so it seemed the best option. He would far more rather be extra careful than to risk making things...more complicated. Especially since Tommy seemed more than a bit determined to be uncooperative even now.

Speaking of, Tommy let out an annoyed huff and a somewhat sharp 'tsk' behind him. He muttered something under breath that, even with Techno's better hearing and their proximity, he couldn't really catch.

Tempted as he was to ask Techno wasn't really looking to get into a fight with his brother over it. The blond was already in a mood and any 'unnecessary inquiries' could easily get under his skin.

If they were going to argue over anything then it was best to save it for the more important topics.

Topics that needed to be addressed whether Tommy liked it or not.

Sooner rather than later too.

He just needed-

The sound of a fresh rumble filled the room causing a brief stillness to fall over the two.

"The sooner you finish getting dressed the sooner I can make lunch Tommy." Techno stated plainly as a small amused smirk itched to slide onto his face.

"Shut up." Tommy snapped back quickly.

Techno could practically hear the blush on his brother's face.

X-.-x

Techno had thought, given that he had been able to bring Tommy into his own room for a time, they were at a point of being able to travel the house safely. So long as they were in close proximity to one other of course.

His assumption had been swiftly delivered a kicked to the teeth.

He had managed to get them down the stairs to the main floor, but that was where things went… off kilter. The house, of course, smelt of his family. All of them. With the addition of lingering blood in places.

It had taken almost thirty minutes for him to inspect the whole of the first floor with Tommy firmly in his arms. Tommy had only mildly seemed irritated by this and had put up with it with just a few muttered words under breath. If it weren't for the louder groan of Tommy's stomach Techno probably would have lost himself to the urge to barricade the place for further security.

Chat still demanded it, but Techno as currently too busy making his brother eggs with toast.

It was simple, but for now it would do. Depending on how well Tommy seemed to handle it he could make something heavier for his next meal.

Fish would be good for protein without being to heavy and as far as Techno could remember Tommy was able to eat certain fish safely. Though, to be on the safe side he could just keep to beans and eggs for that. Tommy liked beans on toast as a kid so-

"Oi-"

X-

Burning

X-

Techno jumped slightly at the duel voices, hand almost dropping the spatula despite the firm hold it appeared to be in. With a huffed curse under his breath Techno grumbled as he lifted the pan from the flame and tried to scrape the eggs around quickly.

He was not serving that to Tommy.

X-

Burnt it

Bad eggs

X-

"yeah, yeah chat, I get it." Techno muttered turning to dump the overcooked eggs onto a plate that now was, apparently, for him.

There was a small curious chirp behind him and Techno turned to face its source. Tommy, sitting on the island counter where Techno had placed him earlier, was looking at him with a confused squint. He could see one of his brother's ear tuffs wiggle with an unasked question but so far Tommy seemed content to just stare.

It was...a bit uncomfortable.

"Something wrong, Tommy?" Techno asked, hoping it would prompt his brother along a bit.

"Chat." Tommy stated plainly, the idea of elaborating seeming to elude him still.

X-

Chat!

Us!

He's talking to us!

Hi Tommy!

Noticed pog

Tell him we say hi!

Baby bird is curious

Hello!

X-

Techno closed his eyes a moment and took a quiet breath as Chat's volume spiked quickly with the rush of voices speaking all at once. If it hadn't given him a headache he would have found the sudden fawning kind of wholesome. Awkward, of course. Having his Chat pining for his baby brother's attention was a bit weird and always had been. He was just….mostly used to it by now.

It did the same thing with Wilbur and their father. It was just...louder for Tommy.

X-

Tell him hi!

Tommy!

Bedrock bros!

Hello Tommy!

Hi hi!

Hello!

Runt sees us!

X-

By the time Techno opened his eyes again Tommy was staring at him with a touch of apprehension. Though a fresh curious peep was still audible.

"They say 'hi'." Techno offered into the growing awkward air.

Chat, of course, let out a cheer at having their message relayed. Getting a reply back wasn't exactly required for celebration. Considering how Chat reacted when Wilbur replied to them Techno could only assume what a reply from Tommy would do.

When they were younger it had occasionally gotten them loud enough to cause him vertigo.

"...so they're still, like….a thing you have?" Tommy questioned, his voice unsure.

"...Chat isn't exactly something that...wont be with me?" Techno tried to answer, though it came out questioning.

Chat wasn't exactly something to fade off or go away. It wasn't, despite Techno's earlier efforts in life, something to be suppressed or silenced. Even now Techno wasn't sure how to define them. He only knew they were a part of him. Like, having multiple inner monologues that lived to mock you, but for your own actual best interests…

The only other thing he knew about Chat was that it was 'a Piglin thing' according to their parents.

"And, you still listen to them?" Tommy continued to asked, his inquiries only exciting Chat more.

"Sometimes." Techno nodded as he shifted feet, "When their helpful...or funny."

"Or saying 'hi'."

"Or saying 'hi'." Techno confirmed with a small smirk.

He turned back to the stove then, placing the slightly cooled pan back onto the heat. It wouldn't take long to return to proper cooking temp, meaning it would be quick work to remake Tommy's food.

Tommy seemed to be sitting with his thoughts for the moment and Techno was honestly glad. It...almost felt normal.

Chat was chittering away with glee, happy to be taking up some portion of Tommy's thoughts. The more they spoke on it the more Techno recalled them favoring Tommy over Wilbur. It wasn't a case of them not adoring Wilbur too, but Tommy was their 'Golden Runt'.

Even now.

Techno peeked behind him carefully, using his peripherals more than anything. Tommy was poking at one of his bandages, hidden by the long sleeves of his fresh shirt. It was a bit large on him, presumably having been bought for his more human form.

A few concerned voices noted stuttered breaths as if, once more, Tommy were suppressing his chirps. Along with that the 'poking' at said bandages was quickly turning into scratching-

"Tommy." Techno warned lightly.

Even with the softened tone of reproval it was an instantaneous reaction and Tommy's hands were instead gripping the hem of his shirt. The sound he had been pushing down choked out before being followed by an apologetic peep.

"You really need to stop doin' that." Techno tried to explain in as kindly a manner as he could manage.

Tommy muttered something under his breath as two more peeps popped out of him. Techno perked an ear in his direction but it wasn't enough.

"What was that?"

"Nothing." Tommy stated louder, his annoyance boldly snapping at the end of the word.

"Tommy, you know I'm trying to help you."

"What I know is your taking ages to cook some fuckin' eggs." Tommy quipped back, his statement punctuated with a chirrup at the end.

It was rather loud too which had Techno turning to face his brother while Tommy himself slapped his hands over his mouth. The sound itself was one Tommy used to use often when he was younger. It was a noised used by fledglings to demand food or notify flock of their hunger.

It was no wonder Tommy was fighting so hard right now to keep quiet.

Not that it made it okay.

"Two minutes." Techno stated as he pulled his gaze from his brother, "And hands down. Just, let it out. No one is going to judge you."

With a glance over the now half cooked eggs in the pan Techno wondered if he could risk stepping to the side to find something more immediate for Tommy to eat. He didn't realize his brother was that hungry or he would have forced their way into the kitchen sooner. Though, Tommy hadn't mentioned being hungry earlier either. Not until his stomach literally had growled at them. Something else he was going to have to keep better track of-

X-

Baby bird needs food

Cook faster

Shouldn't have burnt it

Making him wait

L

Runt is starving

Techslow

Need gapples?

Avacado toast

X-

Techno tried to shake the sound of Chat from his head. The last thing he needed was for them to rile him up when he was already kicking himself. He had come to learn over the years, surprisingly, that it was a bad combo.

It took only a short few minutes from there for Techno to have Tommy's food finished, an additional few slices of toast making a home on the plate. It wasn't exactly nutritional, but it would help combat the hunger for a while.

It...seemed to make Tommy happy so it worked out.

Techno himself barely picked at his own food as he watched his brother. Tommy dove into the meal well enough at first, though he slowed dramatically as it whittled down. At first Techno considered if perhaps it was making him feel ill, or maybe the added toast was making him feel full. The return of the chirrup along with a grumble from Tommy's stomach made him think otherwise.

"You're not going to finish that?" Techno asked as he pointed at the almost half plate that was left.

Tommy was putting down his folk even as he fidgeted in place.

"I-I'm good." Tommy stated, though they both knew that was a lie.

"You've had like, barely six bites. We both know you could down a whole carton of eggs on your own if dad let you." Techno stated, hoping to keep the question lighter than the topic itself was, "Or, usually when he didn't."

"That was like, only twice." Tommy defended as he crossed his arms with a pout.

"Three times. I know Wilbur took the fall the for the last one."

"You can't prove anything!"

"I can't, and I don't want to. What I'm sayin' is, we can make that a fourth if you need." Techno hoped the suggestion was tempting enough.

Tommy, for his part, just stared at Techno almost a full minute before another hungry chirrup interrupted them. Once again Tommy lifted his hands towards his mouth, though he manged to stop himself halfway through the action. He was tense though, as if waiting for Techno to scold him.

He didn't.

It was a good start for Tommy holding back himself and he didn't want to ruin that by following through with an unnecessary reprimand.

That didn't, however, mean he was going to just keep quite about it.

"why are you doin' that?" Techno asked softly, slowly, hoping they could keep this more...controlled than last time.

When Tommy only blinked at him expectantly Techno sighed to himself and prepared to press on.

"you used to love mocking the birds and dad's crows." Techno tried to explain in gentle tones, "you bragged to wilbur for a week whenever you learned how to mimic his phantom noises."

Tommy's gaze dropped down to his plate as Techno went on, arms now crossed on the table and acting as a sort of support as he curled in on himself.

"you learned more bird calls than we have actual birds in the area. so...why now aren't you letting yourself use them?"

The silence in the air hung like a humid cloud around them, not really helped by the fact that the summer heat itself was starting to climb again. The warmth was perfectly comfortable for Techno, but for Tommy with his long sleeves and pants on it was probably growing stifling.

"its not important." Tommy finally muttered out after a few moments.

"i think it is." Techno countered, "in fact, I'd go so far as to say i know it is."

Tommy didn't seem to have words to respond with and so opted to just grimace bitterly at the table.

"If something happened or, if someone told you-"

"Its just some noises. I'm a big man now and I should be able to control when I use them. Simple as that." Tommy stated firmly, though his voice was tensed and his fists clenched.

"Its not 'just some noises' Tommy. Whoever told you different is wrong." Techno tried to explain before Tommy grew any more defensive. "Especi-"

"Why does it matter to you so much?" Tommy snapped rather heatedly "It doesn't effect you if I use them or not."

"It effects you, Tommy. And I know you know that." Techno huffed out as he tried to ignore his once more growing frustration with Tommy's obstinacy.

"There isn't a reason to chirp at something instead of, I dunno, using fucking words. If I want to say something I'll say it. I don't need some fuckin' bird noise to say it for me." Tommy rattled off, a few painful sounding peeps escaping him almost in protest of his words.

A bit stunned at the rant Techno could only stare at Tommy a moment as the other glared back. He wasn't covering his mouth but Techno could still see when Tommy was holding his breath in short bursts or tensing his throat to smother the sounds more subtly.

A method Techno was...a bit too familiar with.

Before Techno could make a reply Tommy was speaking again. This time his voice was lower, which made it harder to pick up the strained or off pitch from what he was doing.

"I don't need to make those sounds to survive. They are just distracting. Besides," Tommy paused ever so slightly as he sharpened his glare at Techno, "You do it too. So, either your lying or you have no idea what your talking about."

At this even Chat silenced in Techno's head as his eyes widened with visible shock.

He...he did still do it. Sometimes. A lingering habit he was trying to break from.

Tommy noticed it.

He noticed and...and it was solidifying for him that it was okay.

What was he going to do? Deny it? Hypocrite.

If he tried to deny it then not only would he be a liar but Tommy would only call him out on it and trust him even less. Could he trust any less?

He couldn't just try to explain the facts of it point blank. No one listens when you do that, certainly not Tommy. Pointless.

He couldn't just, tell Tommy-Failure-

X-

Breathe

X-

The word was single spoken, calm and slowly being repeated by the softer voices like a wave. The louder of Chat were still silent, giving the gentler whispers a chance to be heard.

By now Tommy had moved his attention off of Techno and back onto his plate. He was picking at the food again but clearly as a method of ending the conversation.

And...Techno allowed it.

Allowed it because...what else could he do?

The shame and guilt he felt seemed to root into his chest as he focused on what Chat directed.

X-.-.x.-.-X

The heavy silence above was mirrored below with the addition of a wheezed breath and the slapping of fabric onto carpeted wood. The room was dark but that was no problem for him. His night vision would ensure he would easily see what he was looking for once he came across it.

Even if he should have already. This one was never hard to locate before. That was the whole point-

A frustrated whine broke into the air, a fracture line in the silence.

It was brief however as Wilbur abruptly cut off, fighting it by biting down on his fist. Biting down hard. It was bandaged up from similar actions already, but even now he could feel the sting of his own fangs starting to break skin.

He didn't stop until he knew the noise wouldn't rise up again.

He didn't want his father to come back yet- He desperately needed his father to come back-

He just needed a- a minute- He needed- He needed his father. Needed him to come and hold him together before the burning, freezing air in his lungs pierced through him and-

"Wilbur?"

Wil's head snapped towards the door of his room, the light from the hall not registering over the silhouette it created. At the sight of it Wilbur couldn't contain the mewling sob that melded with his distressed trilling. A noise he didn't realize he was making. He was shaking too, badly, as he reached out for his father with both hands, claws scraping uselessly at the air as if trying to draw him closer.

The demand was swiftly answered as the blond rushed to his side, dropping down and pulling him into a firm hug. Instinctively Wilbur drew his wings tight to his back as he felt the soft feathers of his fathers close around him.

"wil, what are you doing on the floor?" Phil asked, voice soft but filled with concern, "you can't be out of the nest. you're burning up."

"i-i'm sorry. I just- i'm sorry" Wilbur croaked out, a wheezing sob almost choking him as an apologetic chitter strove to become audible.

"shhhh, sh, sh, sh- its okay. you're okay. you're not in trouble, mate." Phil tried to sooth, a soft crooning accompanying his words.

A hand was at the back of Wil's head then, pulling him further against his father's chest even though he already had his face buried there. He could feel a soft pressure at the top of his head before it changed to a slightly harder one as his father tucked him under chin.

Wilbur wanted to say it calmed him. Wanted to say it melted away the clawing, swarming turbulence that bubbled up from within him, chewing him up from the inside.

It was warm.

It was safe.

It was his father and Protector.

But at best all it did was take the jagged edge off and replace it with a cold sharp reminder that he was bad.

He was bad and he was wrong and he broke the rules. He didn't listen to his Protector and left the nest. He stressed out his body when he was told to rest. He was...he was looking for something he knew he shouldn't have.

He was bad and deserved a scolding-

"come on, wil. lets get you back in the nest. nice and cozy, yea?"

The voice was gentle and the arms around him, although shifting, remained present. There was no scolding, no raised voice nor lecture. His father, though struggling a bit in the effort to get Wilbur on his feet, kept resolutely on task.

But he knew.

Wilbur knew that he knew.

He knew. He knew. He knew what Wilbur was up to. He knew-

"shh, wilbur, its okay. Sh, it's okay." Phil soothed, a wing closing tighter around them as they paused mid awkward step, "just breathe for me, okay? breathe. you're not in trouble."

Wilbur, amid the swimming thoughts and hazing vision, was vaguely aware of how hard he was sobbing. Enough so that his wheezing breaths had not been able to keep up and his lungs, burning and cold all at once, were running on empty.

Sucking in a sharp breath he couldn't help the whimper that came out at the stabbing sensation of air hitting his lungs. Every breath felt like it was through a waft of needles and only the understanding that air was required to live was he able to keep going.

"good. that's good, wil. just like that." His father praised his efforts, but even in a daze Wilbur could pick up the worried warble that flavored the words.

His father, his Protector, was upset.

And it was his fault.

X-.-X

Phil was scared.

Scared for Wilbur.

His son, who was currently hyperventilating in his arms despite his crooning or words of assurance. Things that normally should work in situations like this. Wilbur's hindbrain should have latched onto them, taken over enough to calm him. Stabilize him.

But there was hardly a reaction.

Wil's hindbrain was clearly still having an effect, but it wasn't a good effect. He was spiraling, panicking, and Phil's status as 'Protector' didn't seem to be holding weight. This had never been an issue before, with any of his sons.

Was it s symptom of Wil's withdrawal?

Was it because of Wil's use of Blue specifically?

Phil didn't know and that scared him. He could look up and find cures or treatments for near anything, but he needed to know what he was treating first. Unless he could get some kind of clue, or affirmation to his theory, he was stuck merely watching his son suffer.

Once again.

"here, follow me, okay?" Phil tried to direct with any sort of confidence.

He placed one of Wil's hands over his chest and took a deep breath. In and out. In, and out. He did this a few times, making sure to have his inhale and exhale audible for good measure.

He practically wept with relief when he felt Wilbur's stuttering attempt to copy him.

"that's it. just focus on that. in, and out." Phil encouraged, keeping his voice soft.

Not only did he not want to stress Wilbur in his already fragile state, but he knew Techno had brought Tommy downstairs not long ago. He didn't want either of them to see Wilbur like this, and he knew Wil wouldn't want that either.

Especially since Techno would know this wasn't just some cold.

"should get you back in the nest, mate. you'll feel better. i promise." Phil coaxed now that Wilbur's breathing returned to a functioning pattern.

It would take some time to properly recover and Phil would rather that time not be spent on the cold basement floor, carpets or not. While it was true Phantoms preferred colder climates they could get sick in them just as well. He didn't want to risk Wil getting worse.

"I- I'm sorry-" Wilbur choked out, the word fragile but feeling so heavy.

"i know, wil. its okay. Phil tried again to reassure as he dragged the two of them forwards.

"I know- know I shouldn't but-" Wil's whimpered explanation was cut off as he practically dead weighted onto the bed, crushing the corner of the blanket nest Phil was trying to get him into.

"you don't need to explain. i'm not mad." Phil had to hold back the 'I'm just worried' that he wanted to say, unsure how Wil's current state would interpret it.

"b-but- I-I was-" Wil stammered, shoving himself up and around enough to be looking at Phil.

His eyes were red rimmed, visible even in the dark, and looked all to ready to burst with fresh tears all over again. The grief on Wil face had Phil reaching out to cup his cheek, using a thumb to rub uselessly at the still wet tracks found there. Phil tried another coo to sooth him but if it had any effect he didn't notice it.

"I- I was looking for- for-" A painful sounding hiccup cut him off this time and he hung his head instead of trying to finish.

"i know, wil. i do. its fine." Phil began as he lowed his head to rest atop Wilbur's, "you don't need to worry about it. i already got rid of it."

The moment the words were out of his mouth the room seemed to still.

"...you what?"

The words were quieter than before and, Phil noted with a prickle of unease, without the stutter of threatening tears. It was still breathed out with a wheeze, but other then that Wilbur was eerily silent suddenly.

"I...I got rid of it." Phil repeated slowly, "It needed to-"

"Y-you can't have! I need that!" Wilbur's voice cracked as it rose almost instantly into a panicked shout.

Phil found himself being shoved away harshly as Wilbur looked around his room with a palpable dread. His hindbrain was chittering out apologies, but they were quickly being overtaken by fearful warbles and trilling.

Phil tried to reach out to him, to place bracing hands on his shoulders to help ground him. However this only lead to Wilbur flailing backwards into the nest and chirping out desperate calls for his Protector.

"W-Wilbur, its me! Its your dad!" Phil tried in vain to confirm, his coos and return warbles remaining ineffective.

This….this wasn't right.

This was entirely wrong.

Wilbur continued to thrash away from him, calling for help between panicked broken phrases of what he 'needed'. Any time Phil tried to touch him or calm him it either made it worse or merely wasn't registering.

This was nothing like the last time.

Phil...didn't know how to fix this.

If he didn't figure it out, fast-

He needed to speak to his wife.

Preferably before one of their sons did.

X-.-x-.-X

The tense air from lunch had followed Techno and Tommy for the better part of an hour after. Talking had gone down to almost nothing and neither one of them seemed to know or want to break the silence.

Techno was honestly thankful that most of the care he needed to give Tommy at the moment didn't need verbalization. Hand gestures and a few directive grunts sufficed for now.

He knew that wasn't ideal and he knew he needed to be the one to handle mending...whatever this moment was. However, knowing that and knowing how to do it were very different things and he found himself utterly lost for ideas.

The best he had had so far was just...getting Tommy to take a bath.

Though, honestly Techno was surprised it wasn't more of a fight. Either Tommy felt bad enough that he was opting for cooperation for the moment, or...he connected bathing to one of the few times his suppression aching body felt...less terrible.

Either way Tommy had consented and even allowed Techno to wash his hair. A process which seemed to have a rather strong calming effect on the blond.

Which is how they ended up back in the well torn apart nest in Techno's room, Techno with a brush in hand and Tommy sat before him staring almost placidly at the far wall.

The quiet about them now was notably different then before. Techno would almost dare to call it relaxing.

Every few steady strokes of the brush had Tommy emitting a contented peep, which Techno responded in kind with a matching chuff. His brother's hair looked much better than before, though it would take a bit of time before it regained its full healthy sheen. Its softness, too, would return in time.

X-

Shiny

More shiny

Golden

Runt is cleaned

Our golden bird

Softest treasure

X-

Techno couldn't help but nod at Chat's words, a proud snort at the end like a stamp of validation. When he shifted his hand and Tommy's hair caught the light it sent a warm tingle through his chest. A tingling that quickly held a purr to it.

Tommy's ear tuffs twitched but he didn't move any. Nor did he when Techno began to run his fingers through the blond locks instead.

Taking that as a good sign Techno allowed himself to give into the ever incessant itch and draw up a small portion of his brother's hair. With slow and practiced movements Techno began to form a braid that would rest just behind Tommy's left ear when finished.

As he worked the rumbled purr remained, rising on occasion when the light shone even a tiny bit brighter over the fresh washed curls. From the way Tommy's wings twitched here and there Techno could only assume he wanted to lean back.

He didn't though.

Tommy remained slouched in place, close enough to be technically touching Techno's legs with his back but nothing more.

The bare minimum to keep his hindbrain appeased.

It was fine though. It was what Tommy was comfortable with and that...that was good enough for Techno.

"can...can I ask you something?" Tommy's voice, softer than it had been all day, queried in a tone that Techno couldn't place.

It didn't seem wrong or anything, just...very not Tommy. A question Tommy asked to ask in the first place was already on the odd side.

"of course." Techno, of course, encouraged.

Whatever it was, Techno wanted to hear it. Answer if he could. Tommy opting to engage with him, particularly after earlier, was much welcomed. Especially when the mood was so calm and gentle around them.

"Why did you leave?"

The words were soft spoken despite the weight of them.

Techno found his hands slowing as he considered how to answer exactly. There were a few reasons why he left. Some of them weren't even selfish. Others were.

"Felt it was time for a change. At least for a while." Not a lie, not a truth.

It wasn't the answer Tommy deserved and Techno knew that. It was what he told anyone who asked though. An easy answer that sounded so reasonable that no one ever questioned it. Minus one person.

"...why didn't you ever come back?"

The guilt stirred up by Tommy's new question almost caused a stutter in Techno's purr. There was no answer here that wasn't selfish.

Would things have been different if he'd visited?

"...I dunno, Tommy. I was, pretty busy out there." The words felt sour in his mouth, the lies rotting them as they were spoken.

The thought of explaining to his brother, his hurting and recovering baby brother, that he couldn't bare the thought of coming home.

That he couldn't bring himself to face them, any of them, for four, almost five, years now.

That even the calls made and letters written took days to work up to as he fought to overcome the anxiety and guilt that clung to him like a second skin.

That even the thought of getting anywhere near the town had filled him with such dread that he'd go days without eating just by considering a visit.

In Tommy's current state Techno couldn't risk any interpretation of that information that could be internalized poorly. And in Techno's current state...He wasn't sure he was strong enough to say any of it out loud.

The silence between them resumed and Techno assumed Tommy was set to leave things at that. A short lived belief as Tommy spoke up a third time, voice at its softest yet and on threat to become a whisper.

"When-" Tommy began shakily, breath seeming to catch as he shifted his wings anxiously, "When exactly, did you start to hate me?"

Techno's hands stopped moving, his purring ceased and he swore his heart probably skipped a beat too. This elicited an anxious cheep from Tommy who instantly started to ramble in the sudden quiet.

"I-I mean, you seem to like doing stuff like this still. The hair brushing, braiding, all that. And that's nice and all, really. And I know you keep saying you like, 'like', doing other things too. Its just-"

"Tommy-"

"-seems a bit out of your way. Some of it takes a lot of time too. Like the nail thing. Especially how fucked mine were. I mean, I get we don't really have a choice right now. You're sort of stuck like this with me-"

"Tommy-" Techno cut him off a bit louder before he said anything else self deprecating.

Tommy's mouth snapped closed, the only sound coming from him being the apologetic cheeping his hindbrain was convinced needed to follow after every raised voice.

Techno took a moment, not just for Tommy's sake but for his own as well.

Tommy had not been shy about poking and prodding at their strained relationship for a while now. After so many years Techno knew, now at least, it wasn't the best. Tommy had snapped about it, insulted him for it and questioned his actions time and again since his coming home.

Tommy had even boldly stated his hate for Techno on three definable occasions.

Techno hadn't considered Tommy assuming it went both ways.

X-

Aw, our baby bird

We could never hate

Precious shoat

Treasured always

Runt needs more attention

Needs more love

Needs more gold

X-

If Techno's ears weren't already ringing his Chat certainly ensured they were. They were almost back to speaking in sentences too.

Techno wanted to scoop Tommy up into his lap so badly. To hug him tight and banish the thought from his head, their house and from the server itself.

But...Tommy wouldn't like that.

So he did what he was able.

With care Techno wove his fingers into Tommy's hair until his finger tips were resting around the crown of his head. As if to place an actual crown there. He leaned down and placed his snout to Tommy's head gently. He took a moment to breath in deep, his exhale carrying a solid low caressive grumble.

He lifted his head up only enough to ensure his words would be properly audible.

"I have never hated you, Tommy."

He could feel Tommy shudder, mostly due to the wings shivering between them. There was a pained warble too that came with Tommy's tear stained reply moments later.

"b-but you did. you do-" He stammered, struggling to speak through a growing sob.

Techno didn't hold back further, moving his arms down to embrace his brother from behind. Tommy didn't fight it, hugging at the arms that were now encircling him. The wings between them were shifted out of the way almost carelessly as Tommy even leaned back into Techno further.

Techno bumped his head to the side of Tommy's, nuzzling with care into the curls. He couldn't stop the pained keening rising from him, but he was trying his best to replace them with soothing chuffs instead. Choking down or suppressing the noise just wasn't an option for him. Not anymore. Not with Tommy listening.

He dared to plant a kiss at Tommy's temple which Tommy also leaned into. The peeps being let out now were unhindered, needy and pleading, trailed with short trills demanding more affection.

Somewhere in the haze of it all Techno could just make out one of Chat wailing about touch starvation. Before now he wouldn't have considered it what with Wilbur being normally touch heavy in his affection.

It was far more believable now.

Regardless of if it were true though Tommy's hindbrain had made its demand. Techno was more than willing to comply.

Taking one of his arms back Techno gave a louder reassuring chuff as the action had caused Tommy to claw at it to keep it in place. When this failed Tommy opted to cling to the remaining arm, Techno in turn gave him a squeeze as well as an added head bump.

With care for how Tommy had his wings Techno slipped his free arm lower around his middle in order to lift his brother from the bed and into his lap. In response Tommy practically melted against him. He didn't turn around at all but he had pressed so close that Techno could feel the wheezed breathes from his crying easily.

Once more Techno nuzzled against his head as he hugged Tommy tight.

"I have never hated you, tommy." Techno repeated slowly, "I could never hate you."

Tommy hiccuped thickly as he cried. Though he seemed to be trying to keep quiet he wasn't holding back his Avian noises at the moment. The pained cheeping alone tore at Techno's heart, peeling away at him until the ever familiar guilt bubbled up, lit by a fresh active regret.

"I'm sorry if, if my leavin' home ever made you feel that way."

The words felt so small, too small, for what he wanted to say.

What he needed to say.

"I promise, the reason I left- It- It had nothing to do with you. I'm sorry if I didn't make that clear-"

"-you didn't want anything to do with me before that."

Once more Techno was stunned to a stop at his brother's gasped out words. Tommy remained in his lap and was making no moves to leave, but he was shaking his head now. Denying Techno's words point blank.

"what-"

"y-you never wanted me around. for so long." Tommy wept out, voice brittle, "n-not unless I was sick, and d-dad made you take care of me."

Their dad had never-

"you never wanted to spend time with me, even- even if it was doing things you were already doing! L-like, the using forge, or- or sparring." Tommy struggled to get his words through some of his sobs, but Techno caught them.

He caught them and they stung, even as he tried recall the scenarios they pertained to.

He didn't dare to interrupt to ask.

"y-you didn't even let me in your room even though Wilbur was allowed. You- you'd yell at me anytime I tried-"

Techno hugged Tommy harder as the blonds trembling grew, but the words barely slowed. He could feel Tommy's claws digging into his arms as he held on tighter as well.

"you-you could never seem to- to get away from me fast enough and-" Tommy's voice dropped out as he sucked in a painful sounding breath, "and then you left."

The last words were said so softly that, had they not been so close to one other Techno might have missed them. Even now as Tommy muttered them to himself between gasped breaths they were hardly at a whisper.

Techno was at loss. He...he had no idea about any of this. He had had no idea that anything between him and Tommy was wrong. From far before he had even considered leaving home.

No wonder he had looked so surprised in that basement.

Tommy...hadn't expected him to come.

x-.-x

It took a while for the both of them to regain composure, Tommy's confessions having quite effectively broken Techno down. The pair had wept together, each mourning a past brotherhood as they clung to one other.

When their tears gave way to silence they lingered in it.

It was a time to process the words spoken. Consider and reevaluate where that put them now.

A time to savor the breathing space gained by offloading so much at once. Dreading where it would lead them now, but needing it all the same.

They couldn't remain as they had been.

It was killing them.

"i wasn't lyin', ya know?" Techno asked into the still air.

Tommy didn't shift or move in his arms, but Techno knew he was awake. He could tell by his breathing and the ever so slight twitch of his ear tuff as he listened.

"i have always, always cared about you, tommy. i love you. you're my baby brother-"

"you don't need to do that." Tommy cut in, slightly hoarse.

"tommy, please. I-"

"really, just- just don't."

The defeat in Tommy's tone hurt and Techno wanted nothing more than to take it away. He wanted- needed Tommy to believe him.

"At least let me explain-"

"You don't need to. You wanted out, right? Away from us? So you-"

"-I left because I'm a Piglin"

The words left his mouth like hot coals hitting ice.

Part of him fought to swallow them back, choke them down again and hide them away to burn in his belly. The other part wanted to spit them out like shattered glass. Painful but necessary to stop them shredding at his insides further.

He was scared and it was selfish and he worried what Tommy would think of him.

What Tommy would justly think of him.

But his brother deserved the truth.

Now more than ever.

"it was because i'm a piglin." Techno whispered a second time, making sure he couldn't take it back.

There would be no 'another time' for this.

No more burdens for the 'future' table.

He could feel Tommy moving now, shifting so that he was looking up from his place in Techno's lap.

"...what?"

The question was so small and so softly spoken yet seemed to carry such a heavy weight behind it.

Techno couldn't bring himself to answer right away. His words caught up in his throat and he didn't know where to begin. His lungs felt tight with each breath he pushed himself though and Chat had gone so quiet it unnerved him. It was like living in that moment you dropped a stone in a well and waited to hear it hit the bottom.

Only he was in charge of when it hit the bottom.

He wasn't ready for it.

But if he waited to be ready then there would only ever be that waiting silence.

"I didn't leave because of you. I left because of me." Techno tried to begin, hoping his words would eventually lead him to what he needed to say.

"But, Piglins are pack oriented though. Like Avians and flocks." Tommy stated with a furrowed brow.

Techno didn't know how to respond to that and just stared a moment in confusion. This, apparently was interpreted as some sort of judgment because Tommy's face flushed and he looked away.

"Yea, I looked it up. Its whatever." He puffed out with a pout.

Were the situation not...what it was, Techno would have found it cute.

"So, were we just, not good enough to be sou-"

"No! No- Tommy- It's not like that!" Techno panicked a moment before taking a breath.

Tommy had tensed up slightly at the raised voice, but thankfully it didn't go further then that. Perhaps helped by the whine Techno made in his panic.

The more time he took the more misinterpretations there could be.

"do...do you know what the villagers used to call me?" Techno restarted, more gingerly than before.

Tommy took a moment, presumably to try and recall, before slowly shaking his head.

" 'the... pig in the hen house.' " Techno answered, unable to help the wince as he repeated it.

Even after so many years it hurt to hear it, childish as it was that phrase haunted him still. Like the ache in his legs.

"I was...different. A lot different. I...I hated it. I hated what I was."

"You said we should be proud of what we are." Tommy interjected with a firm frown.

"I know."

"You said there was nothing wrong with being Hybrids." This time the words were more accusatory though still not quite hostile.

"I know." Techno nodded, tone strained and edged with bitterness, "I... had to learn that too... The hard way."

Tommy didn't have anything to add to that and so Techno kept going. Kept going before he lost his nerve to do so.

"Haven't you wondered... how dad and I know how to treat for this?" Techno asked as he gingerly tapped a finger on Tommy's wrist bandage.

Tommy's eyes fell to his arm as he processed the question and its implications. Techno didn't wait until he reached a conclusion though before he went on.

"Legs are...always the hardest."

Tommy flinched slightly and Techno briefly gave him a squeeze in response. They both knew he wasn't lying. Tommy with fresh memory of it and Techno with a long lingering one.

Techno only hoped Tommy's wouldn't have the sporadic after shocks.

"I...wouldn't have been able to do what I did if I stayed." Techno explained as he carefully laid his head on Tommy's shoulder, "Every day, I wish...I wish I had. I thought...I thought I needed to though. To leave-"

Tommy awkwardly tried to nuzzle against him, but their angle was poor for that. Not that Techno didn't appreciate it all the same.

"I...thought if I came back...less like a Piglin-" Techno's breath hitched sharply.

"Tech-"

"I thought it would be easier-"

"Techno."

"Easier for….for all of you if I wasn't-"

A pained noise from Tommy startled Techno and he lifted his head quickly, loosening his arms too in case he was squeezing too tight. With the new freedom Tommy instantly twisted about and clumsily pulled himself from Techno's lap.

It was the last thing Techno wanted to happen, but he couldn't fault his brother for wanting to get away from-

There were arms around him before the thought could finish, nor the keening noise he had started to make. The arms were spindly but held onto him with a vice grip as a set of wings drew up to wrap around him. Tommy was still partially in his lap, but was using the position to press himself into the hug he was giving.

Tommy's distressed trilling wasn't for himself, Techno realized.

It was for him.

Despite his attempts to keep composed Techno had, at some point, started crying heavily. And now Tommy was trying to comfort him. Enclosing him in wings and holding him close.

Techno...wasn't sure if this was hidnbrain induced or not. Techno was supposed to be the 'Protector' after all. The Guardian. If he couldn't live up to that role then-

"*Dumb idiot*"

The words were muttered near his ear. Muttered in broken Piglin.

Despite the words used the intonation meant something different. Though, in Techno's opinion both variants applied.

The words were repeated a few times before Techno could find breath enough to reply.

"*I know*"