Chapter 6: Renaming the Land
The Rejectland citizens, even their mayor, Sir Poops-A-Lot, are bowing to their knees with heads toward the Smiling Critters and Nightmare Critters. The Smiling Critters felt uncomfortable seeing people down to their knees. As for the Nightmare Critters, they felt prideful of what the citizens were doing.
"Please forgive us! You were telling the truth! And we let our customs and suspicions get the best of us!" Sir Poops-A-Lot pleaded.
"Easy, everyone. You did have the right to suspect us," DogDay lowered his hands.
"DogDay, in some cultures, it's considered rude not to accept one's apology," said Baba Chops.
"She's right, DogDay," Bubba Bubbaphant added.
"Okay, we forgive you," DogDay said.
"Can we give you food as forgiveness? What about water? Money?" Barrel of Huggies is showing baskets, jugs, and purses.
"Well, food will be nice. Including water," said PickyPiggy.
"Anything sweet in those categories will be good, too," said Maggie Mako.
"You want to show your forgiveness by giving us money?" KickinChicken concerned.
"Money?!" Simon Smoke chirped, off-scene.
He then appeared and landed on top of Kickin, continuing, "You mean, if you allow us to take your forgiveness, you'll pay us with money?"
"Sure," Barrel of Huggies said before showing a vast sack filled with gold coins.
Dollar signs appeared in Simon's eyes and added, "How much are you willing to play us?!"
But then CraftyCorn slapped his face, shocking him and their friends.
"I'm sorry about Simon. He can be greedy at times. We won't be needing money as compensation. Food, water, and supplies would be enough for us," she said while Simon held his slapped face.
"Tehehe. My word, CraftyCorn, you sound like you're Simon's wife or something," Rabie Baby teased.
"Huh?!" the Smiling Critters said in shock.
Crafty's face turned red while she muttered, "I…well…I needed… you see…I"
Simon blushed, wagged his tail, and thought, "She did sound like she was married to me. I don't mind her slapping me again."
"Sorry for speaking in such a dastardly tone, Craftybaby. I didn't want to be rude and not accept the money," Simon said, standing up and holding Crafty by the side.
But Hoppy Hopscotch grabbed him by the neck and said, "Don't take advantage of the situation, flame breathe."
As Bobby BearHug helped Kickin, she said, "Anyway, we're glad you finally saw our side of the story."
"Uh, question? What do we do with this?" Icky Licky pulled up an inactive Playtime Automated Companion.
"You kept that abomination with you?!" Touille exclaimed.
"It's best we integrate it to get more answers."
"He has a point. I want to figure out how the Prototype created something like this freakshow," Poe added.
CatNap looked all over the PAC and said, "Wait a minute? What's this on the back? Harley Swayer…The Eye of Playtime. I don't think the Prototype sent this thing after us."
"Harley Swayer? The Eye of Playtime? Who is that?" Allister Gator asked while his friends were confused.
"Long story short, he was why the Prototype is still around," said Bubba.
"What?!" the Nightmare Critters gasped.
"That incompetent fool! Didn't he realize what great catastrophes occurred because of that retched claw's appearance," said Touille.
"Yeah. Swayer is an idiot with crazy intentions. Crazier than your kind," said CatNap.
"Aren't we all meant crazy, FatNap?"
"I am not FAT!"
"Have you not seen your reflection, putty tat?"
"All I know is my hips aren't as wide as yours, ratface."
"Le what?!"
CatNap and Touille started hissing at each other, baring their teeth and showing their claws, eager to fight.
"Does this happen a lot?" Sir Poops-A-Lot asks.
As CraftyCorn and PickyPiggy hold CatNap back, Simon and Maggie pull Touille away.
"Yep. It's very clique. And I thought School taught these two better this," DogDay crossed his arms.
"They pay attention in class?" Baba questioned.
"Well, they got to at some point."
"Come on, Doggytreat. You know them better than that. And so do I."
"Don't you have hope that their relationship would improve?"
"Not really. Their fights and chases are always fun to watch. It's like watching an old-time cartoon live."
"What an interesting relationship you outsiders you have," Sir PAL commented.
"Sounds like you learned a lesson on judging outsiders too quickly, Sir Poops-A-Lot," a voice said.
Everyone turned to see the Player coming over. The sight of them made the Rejectlanders bow in respect.
"Oracle Player. Such an honor you've lived from the Day of Terror," said Sir Poops-A-Lot, tipping his hat in respect.
"Player!" the Smiling Critters grin wide.
"It's the mannequin again. Still, I don't understand why you Smiling Critters can handle this guy," said Rabie.
"I guess I won't give you these because your magic was unlocked, Rabie Baby. "
The Player showed a pink backpack with a bubblegum bubble clip and a red blade with a blood drop imprint on the bottom edge.
The sight of those caused Rabie to shrill like a fangirl, which was powerful enough to shake Rejectland and startle everyone.
"Oh my gosh! Are you serious?! Wee! I got my magic! I want them! I want them! Give me my heirlooms, Player!" Rabie Baby flapped her wings in excitement.
"Well, since you said my name. I guess I can," Player answered.
Rabie hugged CatNap and bit his neck joyfully before going to Player.
"Ouch! What was that for!?" CatNap rubbed his neck in pain.
"I'll take care of that," said Bobby, touching CatNap's bite area to help it heal.
Rabie kneeled as Player knighted her with her blade and said, "Rabie Baby, the Bubblegum Blood Knight, for using your snooping habit to help your friends. I grant the endless space Bubblegum Back, and the Mystic Blade, it can bind the soul of a defeated enemy, granting the wielder temporary access to their abilities and knowledge. The magic you acquired is Vampiric Charm, mesmerizing others, compelling them to reveal their secrets or do your bidding. Gossip Whisper: Magical eavesdrops on any conversation within a certain radius, making it impossible for others to keep secrets from you, and Shadow Flight: Silently glide through the shadows using your wings, making your presence almost undetectable."
Rabie's medal glowed in magical radiance as she was handed her Bubblegum Backpack and Mystic Blade. In awe, she poured all her stuff from her old backpack into her new one. After throwing the old one, Touille so he and Maggie can do a mouth tug-a-war, which annoys DogDay to cross his arms. She equipped her Bubblegum Backpack and the Mystic Blade. She swings, stabs, and slashes her signature weapon in the air. Rabie raised her blade upward to show her knightly pride.
"Yeah, RB. We are knight girls together," Baba smiled and side-hugged her.
"I hope it will be my turn to get my weaponry and magic soon. Together, we can hear the Nightmare Gal Knights," Maggie coming over to her two besties.
"Guess it will be my turn to get my gear and magic," Allister smirked.
"No, it will be me," said Simon.
"I want to them first," Touille yelled.
"I'm more mature than all of you! I deserve it!" Poe shouted.
"Nightmare Critters, time will arrive once it's turn. Sir PAL, I have seen. The vision I will speak. Your life and your people's will prosper the better if you change the name of your homeland. Clear vision shows that this place is better than their hometowns because they can be who they are and speak freely. This is your decision. What do you do?"
With some thought, Sir Poops-A-Lot looked around and saw his people happy to be there.
He smiled before pointing his cane in the air and said, "No doubt a place like this wonderful deserves a better name. For hence, this day forth, this place will be renamed Rebelland!"
His people cheered and clapped while the Critters smiled. The Smiling Critters hugged the Nightmare Critters, surprising them.
"Your wishes came true, Nightmare Critters," said Bubba.
"I guess so," said Simon.
Suddenly, the Playtime Automated Companion started shaking, causing everyone to stand back.
Player instantly gets in front of the Critters to defend them as Harley Swayer's eye shows itself on the screen.
"The Eye of Playtime!" Player exclaimed.
"That's Harley Swayer?!" the Critters shocked.
"Not quite."
"So... if it isn't the Oracle of Playtime. It's nice to see I'm not the only one with a changed form," Harley's voice was heard.
"Woah, that's creepy. He sounds like me but older and eviler," DogDay said.
"No, don't say that DogDay. Don't ever say that again," CatNap shook his head.
Harley spoke, "The spawn of the annoying 29th magical knights and spawn of the rip-off 29th magical knights. I've been eyeing you ever since you left Critter City. Your fight and spirit are something that could be reckoned with. You and I are the same. The Prototype took what we had and got us cast out. You can join me in bringing him down, and Playtime Land could be ours."
"Are you kidding me?" Hoppy said.
"You're joking, right?" Kickin added.
"You think we'll ally learning you freed the Prototype from the Poppy Prison Door so you can rule the Playtime Land with an iron fist? Unbelievable," Bubba commented.
"He did what?!" the Nightmare Critters said in shock.
"You don't understand. Ever since that blasted King Elliot Ludwig Playtime was born, things in Playtime were never the same. Everything went soft and mushy with too much peace and comfort. Someone needs to stand and show the true meaning of the word, Playtime."
"As if you can be a better ruler than the true rulers," said Simon.
"Would a ruler unleash a monster for power? Only a monster would," said Poe.
"You will see the error of your ways, little Critters."
When Harley ends the call, the PAC shows a time of 10 seconds and says, "This Playtime Automated Companion Design #814 will self-destruct in 10…9…8…7…6."
The Critters screamed, "Not again!"
"5…4…"
"Somebody gets rid of that thing!" Sir Poops-A-Lot yelled.
"3…2…"
Using the Blue GrabPack, the Players pulled to themselves and then switched the Red Hand with the Purple Hand. They used their magic to summon a purple handprint to the ground, and using the Purple Hand up, they went upward. They launched the PAC into the outskirts.
"1…0…"
It exploded in debris for Icky to say, "Well, that was a lame explosion. The last one we encountered had fireworks."
"Our next stop isn't far. So, we can stay here for a while," said Crafty, looking at the map.
"Stay here as long as you like. We'll let you all stay in the best suite in Rebelland," said Sir Poops-A-Lot, gesturing to the Critters to follow him.
"Hey, Player. Would you like to stay with…us?" Bobby asked but realized that Player was gone.
"I guess they have somewhere to go," said Rabie.
"Anyway, I want to see this suite we got," said Simon, wagging his tail and taking Crafty by the hand.
On top of the butte, the Player watched the Critters following Sir Poops-A-Lot. The Player then took out a VHS voice recorder and played it.
Princess Poppy: Former Royal Scientist Harley Swayer, you were accused of being the culprit of the Theater Incident that caused the death of the fallen King and Queen, Elliot and Molly. How do you plea?
Harley Swayer: Even if it wasn't me who didn't cause it, they deserve death. Elliot was a disgrace for being so soft. And his partner, Molly, shouldn't have supported his ideals.
Stella Greyber: How can you say such things?! The King was right to dismiss you from your position. I'm the only one left to care for our dear Princess. My lady, you've been through so much. You don't have to be here for his trial.
Leith Pierre: Ms. Greyber, it's necessary that she best her parents all because of him. We even have evidence. Isn't that right, Detective Gerad Lockehart?
Geard Lockehart: Correct, Advisor Pierre. This evidence proves that Harley Swayer was there when the incident occurred. Thanks to the aid of Royal Scientist Eddie M.N. Ritterman, we also have DNA confirmation.
Eddie M.N. Ritterman: Indeed, Mr. Lockehart. Even the items used for the incident had tracks of his DNA too. There's no doubt that he is the culprit.
Princess Poppy: I see…The evidence is clear. You have committed a kingdom crime against the Playtime Legacy, Harley Swayer. You will be punished for the acts of murdering my parents, including the lives that were lost in the incident and ruining a historical building.
Harley Swayer: How curious. You try to act like you're intimidating me. You have no leadership to show for your kingdom. Perhaps someone like me.
Leith Pierre: How malicious. The Smiling Knights and the Dark Nightmare Knights had the feeling you wanted to overthrow the royal family. When I get my hands on you-!
Eddie M.N. Ritterman: Advisor Pierre, console yourself before Her Majesty.
Leith Pierre: You're right, Ritterman. I still can't believe His Majesty is gone. (sighed) But I do have a suggestion for this man's punishment. (whispers)
Princess Poppy: That sounds unethical.
Leith Pierre: Think about, Your Highness. He committed a heinous crime. He deserves a horrific punishment. Besides, his knowledge is too great to be considered an excellent death. And technically, he will still live on.
The Player: I have seen. The vision I will speak. Harley Swayer, if you continue to want your wicked desires, you will become as cold and heartless as a machine. Desperation will bring Playtime Land down, and after that, you will never gain your wishes. Admit your faults and give up your ambitions, or your new body will give the worst death for one as black as your heart, like yourself.
Harley Swayer: (laughed like a tyrant) Unbelievable, you wanted me to believe in your silly vision? Ignorant for me to heed someone as foolish and lightheaded as you are. I always get what I want.
The Player: You have been warned, Harley Swayer. Princess, if you please.
Princess Poppy: Harley Swayer, as punishment, you will work for the digital security of Playtime Land, but you will be placed in a new body that we can control. Take him away.
Once the tape ended, Player looked at the distance, disappeared into the sun's light, and said, "I hope you're happy, Harley. You should've heeded my warning about your fate."
Back with the Critters, they walk through the massive double doors and are greeted by an impressive foyer adorned with a stunning chandelier that casts a warm, golden glow. The living room is open and airy, with high ceilings, plush white sofas, and golden accents. A grand piano sits in one corner, ready for evening serenades, while tall windows offer breathtaking cityscape views. The suite features several bedrooms, each a sanctuary of luxury. King-sized beds with white silk linens and gold-trimmed canopies promise a restful slumber. Each room has its en-suite bathroom, with marble floors, gold fixtures, and a soaking tub. A long, elegantly set dining table sits beneath another magnificent chandelier. The white and gold theme continues here with beautifully upholstered chairs and gleaming dinnerware. The fully equipped kitchen boasts state-of-the-art appliances, white marble countertops, and gold accents, providing a perfect space for a private chef to prepare gourmet meals. A dedicated entertainment area includes a large flat-screen TV, surround sound system, and a selection of movies and games. Adjacent, a cozy library with white and gold bookshelves offers a quiet retreat. Stepping out onto the expansive balcony, a luxurious outdoor seating area, and a private hot tub, all framed by breathtaking views. Golden lanterns provide soft lighting for evening gatherings under the stars. The suite also features a private spa room with massage tables, a sauna, and a fully equipped gym, ensuring relaxation and wellness for all guests. The white and gold VIP suite stunned the Critters so their eyes would sparkle.
"Please enjoy your stay," Sir Poops-A-Lot leaves.
"This is a lot to take in," said DogDay.
"Woo! The luxury life! Let's go wild," Simon yelled.
The Nightmare Critters ran to their separate rooms and began making themselves home. Baba locked herself and planted her face on her pillow. Icky began to bounce on his bed. Rabie lay down on her bed and painted her toes. Allister began sleeping in his bed like a baby. Simon starts to play rock music as he stands on his bed. Poe closed the curtains and turned off the lights to embrace the darkness in his room. Touille begins to pour trash all over his room and swims in it joyfully. Maggie poured all her sweets on the bed to make a large pile and dived right into it.
"Come, my friends. We should be thankful that the Rebelland wanted to apologize like this. The enemy is not around anymore," CatNap smiled before clearing his throat to sing.
CatNap: Let's take a rest. [He pulls his friends over to the lobby.]
We've had such a long day [Picky takes out apples for her friends to snack on a couch.]
And we deserve it [Bubba takes out his Journey Journal and sits near her to write.]
We've worked our best [Hoppy and Kickin lay down on another couch and kick up their feet.]
To save the day [Kickin turns on a TV that shows a Care Bears TV show while
So, let's take in the service [Crafty lays on the carpet to draw.]
Just take a breath [Bobby sits next to Crafty to join her.]
And we'll begin the relaxation given to us [CatNap sits on the last couch and gestures to DogDay to join him.]
Where everything is perfect as it seems, so let's not make a fuss [Once DogDay sat down, CatNap laid on his lap, causing DogDay to blush and smile before leaning back to relax.]
As the Critters enjoy themselves, the scene cuts to their parents watching them through Poppy Flower Crystal Ball. They smiled to see their children doing well.
But then their ears went up when they heard the Prototype's voice, saying, "Is this true? The man who aided you to set me free is still around?! He still thinks he can control me. He's wrong…We should do something to scout him out and deal with those Little Smilers."
Hearing him coming, the Nightmarish Dark Knights fled by jumping out the window, shocking the Smiling Knights.
When a thud was heard, the Nightmare Dark Knights answered, "We're okay. We landed in a dumpster filled with mattresses and pillows."
The Smiling Knights sighed in relief until Shadow Poppy and the Prototype's Claw were shown.
"Any ideas on how we handle both problems, my Lord?" Shadow Poppy asks.
"I think we should let both problems deal with each other. If either of them croaks first, we take care of the other," the Prototype answered.
"Then we should send our warriors to deal with one of them or maybe get someone in the next area to do our bidding. Like using the Doctor's old creations."
Shadow Poppy shows a collar that looks like the pips filled with the Red Smoke.
"Yes, the Red Smoke Collar. Thankfully, it helped get the inorganic beings on our side."
THE END…