Hey guys! This is my first story on this app, and I hope it makes a good impression! I've written fanfiction for years now, but mainly in one genre. (The Seven Deadly Sins anime) but I want to add more range. Especially since I've been a reader of for so long! Starting off, I'd like to do primarily Rise of the Guardians, but I'll probably branch off some here and there too. Also if you want to check out my other works, they're on Wattpad under the username KitkatGilmoreGirl. Anyway, enjoy this little fluff piece! (Also, all of these will be short stories, but unless stated otherwise, they will be set in the same world.
Jack hollered as the wind carried him through the air. Three hundred years, and flying still hadn't gotten old. He didn't think it ever would. Maybe it was the exhilaration of whipping around, going this way and that, at such high speeds. Or, maybe it was simply the fun of just going along for the ride. A lot of people thought he controlled the wind, that when he flew, it was him picking the height and the speed. But that wasn't true at all. No, the wind was in control. Wind decided where they went and how fast they moved, Jack just made… suggestions. Wind was essentially the driver, he was merely the passenger. Jack was embarrassed to admit it took him a good few years for that fact to sink in. He would spend hours fighting with the wind to try to get it to obey him. Which usually lead to it conveniently dropping him from high altitudes in retaliation.
But, after a while, the two worked out a pretty good system. He'd ask the wind to take him places, and just went along for the ride. For a long time, the wind was Jack's best friend. Only friend, in fact. Of course, that wasn't the case now. Now he had the Guardians. Something he was still processing.
It had been two days since the final fight with Pitch, and Jack was still… reeling. It was hard to grasp how everything could've changed so quickly. Three hundred years of isolation somehow ended in three measly days.
After Jack had been deemed a guardian, the group went back to the pole to celebrate. Eggnog and sugerr cookies were involved. Not to mention a fruitcake, but only North munched on that. Then, when MiM was high in the sky, the little gathering died down, and everyone needed to go back to their duties. The Guardians may have won the war, but the blows to their belief would still take time to fix. Sandy's absence had left most children jumpy, wary, and between Tooth and Bunny struggling to fully maintain their domain, a lot of kids were skeptical, leading to an overall downward spiral in belief and morale. And though Jack was officially a guardian now, there wasn't much he could do to help in that. Apart from Jamie and a few of his friends, no one could see him. But, that didn't mean he couldn't help at all. His center was fun! He could do his part by cheering up the little ones with snowball fights and games! He even got a bit generous and gave some kids a no school day. Mother Nature wouldn't be happy about that, but… well, maybe being a guardian would give him some immunity or something.
Probably not, but he doubted she'd be surprised by him not following the rules. Not to mention, he wasn't exactly under her domain.
Jack landed on his lake without the normal grace and poise. He didn't glide like usual, just kind of… staggered.
He thanked the wind for bringing him here and winced as he straightened, inhaling deeply to try to offset the sharp pain in his ribs. It didn't work.
The battle with Pitch certainly wasn't the first time he'd gotten hurt in a fight, which made identifying his wounds pretty easy. He was familiar with this sort of thing. Bruised and broken ribs from two different falls, concussion and head trauma from getting slammed into the iceberg in Antarctica, a few pulled muscles from the various battles, and he was pretty confident he'd fractured his wrist when he fell on that dumpster. Moving at all hurt- well- everything. But he hadn't let that stop him from helping his fellow Guardians build belief. It was his job, right? Not to mention, Jamie and his other little believers were counting on him, he had to be responsible and be there for them! And.. he kind of owed his new comrades for what happened on Easter… Jack didn't think he'd ever get the image of Bunny's pain when he was walked through out of his head. He knew what that felt like, he knew it more than most….
However, now that Jack had done all he could, and the children of the world seemed much more at ease, he planned to sleep these injuries off for the next week or two. His whole body had been screaming at him for days to rest, but he ignored the signs to push on. Mainly because he knew once he was down and out, that would be it until he got better. He called it his "Hibernation". He thought it was fitting, him being in charge of winter and all. He'd find a nice cold place and settle down in an old cave or a good tree and just go dead to the world until he got better. Sleep and cold were all he really needed to heal, being immortal and a seasonal. Though, these wounds would definitely take some time. He'd exasperated them from all the flying and playing, and Jack was definitely starting to feel it as he staggered towards a little cave sitting behind his lake. It wasn't perfect, but he didn't think another seasonal would spot him. It was still winter, which was his domain. Not to mention, snoozing in a tree was out of the question considering his ribs were all out of whack.
Just as he was about to settle down- even fluffing up a nice, crunchy, pile of snow as a bed- a splash of color came into his peripheral vision and he turned to look at it. His heart dropped when he saw the Northern Lights. North had explained to him that if the Guardians ever needed to be summoned for an emergency or gathering, he'd trigger the lights to bring them all together. It was a tradition that the Guardians had started long ago. And, well, Jack was one of them now. Though… for a moment he debated just sitting this one out. The others could handle whatever this was for, right? He needed sleep.
But… What if it was an emergency? What if something was wrong with the kids? What if someone got hurt? What if… Pitch was back?
Jack would never admit that he felt a flash of fear at that last thought. He didn't like knowing that thinking about the boogeyman bothered him. But, nonetheless, that thought alone was what propelled him into action. He asked the wind to carry him to the North Pole, and went limp when the wind complied. Normally, he'd have some fun with flying, enjoy the sights, sprinkle some snow, holler in delight, but he didn't have it in him right now. The thrill from earlier had faded, leaving him exhausted and in pain.
A good ten minutes later, Jack landed by the window of the Library, conveniently where all the others had gathered already. He was pleased he wouldn't have to navigate the factory in search of the globe room, like he thought.
Why are they all in here? This seems a little too cozy for a meeting.
As he entered, masking a wince with a grin- he scanned the room for any problems, but all he saw were five cozy chairs, a gentle, crackling, fireplace, walls of oak shelving full of old books that smelled amazing, and the other Guardians looking content in their seats.
He stepped closer cautiously, still confused and a bit wary.
"Uh… hey guys. Don't take this the wrong way, but this seems like a bad time to be snuggled down in chairs if there's an emergency."
Jack jolted a little as North's booming laughter cut in. A quick, loud, "ha!" that hurt Jack's head, though he did his best not to show it. The frost spirit still wasn't used to how… boisterous, the man was. Honestly, he wasn't used to much interaction at all, so he supposed that wasn't surprising. But based on the way Tooth jolted a little, he assumed it wasn't just his lack of social interaction that said the man was… a lot.
Still, it felt good to hear someone laugh. Especially North. He just exudes… joy. The kind that was hard to kill. That crazy, bubbling, you have to share it kind of joy. Jack liked it.
"Not to worry, Jack. There's no emergency. Just sit, sit! We'll fill you in."
Jack obliged, wincing as he felt a rib pop in a strange way when he did. At least he wasn't next to the fireplace like Tooth and Bunny, heat was the last thing he needed right now. Not to mention, the chairs were plush and comfortable, like made from memory foam.
Jack looked around at the Guardians, noticing that they seemed… off. Tooth was fidgeting a lot, and though Jack thought she was just cold for a moment, that theory was quickly squashed by the fluffy blanket covering her. Bunny seemed slightly annoyed, like he thought whatever was about to happen next was unnecessary or irritating. North was pacing around the room, like he was double and triple checking something, and Sandy… Well actually Sandy seemed pretty normal. He was dozing in his chair, his cup of eggnog tipping ever so slightly before some elves took it out of his hand to finish it off themselves. Strange little things, the Elves. Jack knew one thing for sure, he didn't trust anything any of them made food wise. Not with how often he saw them sneaking bites and licks of various things.
Finally, after a few moments of silent anticipation, North clasped his hands together loudly, excitement over something oozing out of every pore.
"Now! Tis time everyone!"
It was funny, here they were only a few days after Easter, in the spring season, and yet, North looked like a child excitedly waiting to open a gift on Christmas morning. Though, Jack supposed that was fitting. North was the Guardian of Wonder after all. And that seemed to be Christmas's whole thing as a result.
Jack watched in amusement as the others turned to look at North, seeming excited themselves. All except Bunny who rolled his eyes, though it seemed good natured.
"Oh this is so exciting! We haven't gotten to do this in ages!"
The winter spirit heard a little squeak of agreement to Tooth's bubbly words and realized Baby Tooth must be with her. He must not have noticed. He was feeling a bit off from the delayed Hibernation. His senses weren't as sharp. He really hoped this would be quick. Though, that was also just because he was a bit impatient with surprises.
Jack turned his attention back to North and watched in amusement as the man lit a candle delicately, as if a grand ceremony was about to commence.
"Should I get ready to start singing Happy Birthday soon? Cause I'm only doing it if cake is involved."
He kind of hoped cake would be involved. He'd never gotten to try it before.
"Hah! Good guess, but no. See, today is special. Today, is full moon."
Jack blinked, feeling a little disappointed. Was that it? Really? Would he have to endure this every time a full moon happened? Because he had three hundred years of full moons under his belt, and considering his complicated relationship with Manny… well, he wasn't too eager to celebrate him.
"But that is not all! Tis first full moon since a new guardian has joined us!"
"Crikey, so much pageantry…"
Jack grinned at Bunny's quip. Clearly cottontail didn't enjoy this much either. Looks like the two of them did have something in common.
"Okay, and that means… what exactly?"
North beamed, as if he'd been waiting for Jack to ask.
"That means that we have official ceremony!"
Jack blinked and tilted his head a little. Before he was a little annoyed and anticipatory, now he was circling back to confusion.
"Ceremony? But we already did this, right? You read from the book and I accepted, Yada Yada, the rest is history."
North laughed again and shook his head.
"No no, my boy! You are already Guardian, I assure you, this is for after the role is accepted. Now, we make you symbol!"
Jack had a feeling it wasn't North's thick Russian accent making the communication difficult. He almost didn't want to keep asking questions. He had a feeling this would go round and round if he did. He sighed and tried to temper his annoyance. He knew he'd normally love all this mystery and anticipation, he was just hurting and tired, which made him grouchy.
He shook his head to get rid of his funk, and smiled at North, allowing himself to get swept up in the excitement.
"Okay, okay, I'll bite. What's a symbol?"
Tooth answered this time, beating North to the answer and fluttering around in excitement.
"A symbol is a very special thing, Jack! It's a tradition! Every time we introduce a new guardian, during the first full moon after they join us, Manny gives them a symbol that represents their center!"
Jack's stomach did a little flip. That… wasn't what he had been expecting. MiM was involved in this? He'd be… interacting? The winter spirit couldn't keep his smile from flickering for a second, and it wasn't from his injuries. At least, not the physical ones.
Jack's relationship with Manny was… rocky, to say the least. Did he understand why he wanted him to be a guardian now that a couple of his memories had returned? Yes. Did that make up for the amnesia and three hundred years of abandonment?
No.
He still hasn't heard a word from him, either! Not since being told his name. Every "plan" the Man in the Moon had regarding him was conveyed through other people. Like he was a little puzzle piece to be moved around at will. And that was a wound that hasn't closed yet. So… to hear Manny had some sort of plan or symbol to bestow upon Jack didn't exactly inspire excitement. Just… a strange blend of nerves and resentment.
Seeing the change in demeanor, Bunny piped up. He mistook the falter for confusion.
"It's really not as big a deal as these blokes are making it sound. It's just a little thing MiM does to welcome newcomers, that's all. It'll represent your part."
Bunny reached into a pouch in his belt and pulled out a small charm. It was an egg covered in cracks, but instead of looking broken, the cracks were covered in beautiful vines and flowers blooming. It sparkled in the fire's light, shining a range of beautiful pastels from violet to gentle reds.
"This one here's mine. It represents hope, and the joy of new beginnings and fresh starts. Which is what I uphold with my holiday. It's what I give to the little ankle biters."
His tone was even, almost bored, but his emerald eyes reflected passion and belief. Bunny truly believed in what he represented. He knew its value. Jack remembered him saying something similar during Easter, but it hit differently this time. Harder, somehow, with the context provided.
"Yes! Oh, I must show you mine! Jack, look!"
North's enthusiasm was so infectious, so overwhelming. Jack looked as he pulled out his own trinket. Revealing an open present box that was overflowing with different gifts. He tilted it back and forth, and every time he did, the presents inside changed. It was mesmerizing.
"You see, Jack, the gifts I give aren't just about the presents themselves. It's about the possibilities. Every time a child sees that box with the little bow, their imagination and wonder take over. What could it be? A pet? A toy? A game? The possibilities are endless! And that feeling is something to be cherished. It's what I remind children to feel. At least once a year. So, when they're adults who don't believe anymore, they can remember that feeling. And it can carry them through their toughest moments."
North seemed to… soften, as he spoke. The excitement dimmed into something more meaningful, something nurturing, almost paternal, in nature.
Tooth fluttered around, her feathers fluffed in bubbling enthusiasm.
"I guess I'm next!"
If Jack were honest, he'd say he'd been expecting a tooth of some kind. But that wasn't what her charm held. It was a coin of gold. One side showed an adult with a bright, glowing, smile, the other showed a child, with the same excitement and joy, but with a few missing teeth.
"As you know, my job is to protect memories. The most impactful, joyous memories of childhood. So that when they grow up, and they need to remember what that feels like, I can help. But there's a lot more to it, Jack. Most people say the eyes are the windows to the soul, but I disagree. I think it's the smile. With just one, genuine, sweet, smile, I've watched people meet, people reunite, people fall in love. A smile means everything in connection. In a family. And it's because of what I protect, what I collect. Memories form bonds, childhood shapes adults, reminiscing creates empathy, kindness, care. That is what I protect. Connection. And I wouldn't trade that for the world."
She clutched the charm, a soft smile on her face, a few tears glistening in her eyes. Jack felt something in him thaw. A little spark of his resentment fading into understanding. He knew the value of Tooth's power more than most. It was only because of what she'd guarded that he'd gotten any idea of who he used to be. He got to remember Emma because of her, even if just a few, fleeting, memories.
Tooth composed herself with a sigh and quickly wiped her tears.
"But that's not the point of today. Today is about you, Jack! Today is about what you represent. Your center. We keep these charms as reminders, promises to ourselves we work hard to keep. Now, it's your turn! Manny will pick something just right for you, I'm sure of it!"
The softness of the moment was broken as the rock sitting in Jack's chest rehardened. The Guardians all had such a strong connection with the Man in the Moon. They treated him like they owed him everything they worked for, everything they were. And Jack couldn't blame them, they had a relationship with him. They called him Manny. But… Jack didn't. The only side of MiM he knew was cold, quiet, cruel. In all reality, he was a stranger to Jack. And not through a lack of effort on the winter spirit's side. He had tried so hard to have… something. Anything. A connection, a conversation, even just a moment of interaction. But he'd never gotten it. And the idea that the very one who had ignored him for the last three hundred years would get to decide his purpose felt… off. It felt wrong. Like Manny had just been waiting for this moment to use him for what he saw fit, disregarding everything Jack had gone through during the waiting.
But as he saw the Guardians, saw their passion, their softness, their gratitude, for everything they'd been given, Jack couldn't bring himself to make his concerns known. They never had to see the side of MiM that Jack knew. He couldn't bring himself to try bringing it to light now. Besides, it was just a charm, right? He could do that for the Guardians. Just stand around, wait until this strange little tradition was over, and then be on his merry way to hibernate.
"Alright so, how does this start? I mean, do we just wait or-"
He was cut off as a brilliant ray of moonlight peeked into the window, causing his fellow Guardians to practically trip over themselves in excitement. Well, all of them but Bunny. Bunny just tipped his glass of hot chocolate with a little nod to Jack, as if saying "good job".
North pulled Jack to his feet- while Jack chewed his tongue bloody to avoid yelping in pain- and then practically shoved him towards where the moonbeam landed.
Right in front of the fireplace.
"Uh N-North I don't think this is a good idea-"
"Nonsense my boy! Is fine! Don't be nervous!"
Jack could feel his energy waning, his injuries getting exacerbated by the insufferable heat that he was way too close to. Was his skin bubbling off? No? Well it sure hurt like it was. He grit his teeth and stood in pained tension as he waited for whatever was supposed to happen. He just needed to endure this for a few seconds, right? He could handle that.
Although his body seemed to disagree.
His pulled muscles twitched and spasmed in protest, his ribs seemed to stab at whatever they could get to around them, his head started pounding so hard he couldn't hear anything around him, and his wrist felt like it was cracking more every second. And that didn't even cover the various bruises and cuts on his body that seemed to get worse and worse by the second. It felt like his skin was pulling apart, his bruises bleeding into bigger and bigger patches.
He knew he was imagining it, he knew it wasn't truly happening, it was just the heat making him feel more pain. But oh was it hard to tolerate… His mind could swear more injuries were piling up, happening right now.
He swallowed hard, straightening to keep from showing his injuries. There was no point making them a big deal and worrying the Guardians. He just needed sleep. He glared at the open window, having a stare down with the moon.
Come on, please speed this up. Whatever magical moment that's supposed to happen needs to hurry. Just get this over with so I can leave and go to sleep!
He felt the moonlight settle fully on him. It was… soft, somehow. Warm, bright, but in a gentle sort of way. It didn't hurt like having the heat from the fireplace hitting him. If anything, for a brief moment, it seemed to relieve the pain. Like a warm hug or a gentle bandage wrapped around his wounds. Strangely… comforting. Jack let out a breath of relief as he regained control again. He'd nearly lost his composure, and that was the last thing he'd wanted to do. His hoodie hid his injuries well, and he wanted to keep it that way. He didn't want to cause a panic over his wounds' severity when he knew the solution was simple. Besides, he'd dealt with worse, right? It would be embarrassing overreacting now just because of the fire getting to him. It wasn't like he was actually on fire, even though it felt like it.
Jack stood up a bit straighter now that he could move without the tension freezing his body. He felt a little nervous, feeling scrutinized by the moon's silent gaze. Was he just supposed to stand here? Was he doing something wrong? It had been a good twenty seconds now, and nothing seemed to be happening. It just felt like MiM was staring at him. Judging him. Maybe that was Jack's paranoia talking, or his uneasiness that seemed to flare to life around Manny, but he felt fidgety, anxious.
And then, it was over.
The moonbeam slowly flickered away, and Jack had no charm to show for it.
He was genuinely surprised by how hard the feeling of resentment and abandonment hit him. It felt like a physical blow. And yet, what had he been expecting? He'd only done this to appease the Guardians and their little tradition, so what if he wasn't given a charm! But… there was a little part of him that just refuses to die that had hoped, wanted, MiM to notice him. A small, eager, little portion of his heart that had been excited at the idea of finally, finally hearing Manny talk to him again. Hearing his voice, maybe even his praise, directed at Jack.
But no. Ignored again. Hurt again. Rejected, again. What else was new?
Jack staggered a little as the moon's light fully left the room. The returning pain hit him hard. Too hard. It felt worse than before, like fire ants crawling up his body and biting everything. He was burning. He was frying.
No, he realized, he was overheating. A flare of panic struck him as it vaguely registered what that meant. A winter spirit overheating was already bad news, but a severely injured winter spirit overheating was downright dangerous.
He needed to cool down, now. If he didn't, he risked passing out. Which basically meant his body would force him to hibernate until everything got fixed again. And this definitely wasn't the place for that sort of thing.
It's already embarrassing enough to have MiM ignore me again, and in front of the Guardians. I'm not adding collapsing in front of them to the mix. Come on. Get it together! Just a little longer… Need to… get out of here.
Apparently mortification wasn't enough incentive for his body to hold it together. It had enough of his delays. And within seconds, the earth was spinning, his vision was going black, and he dropped.
And that was it. His little "Hibernation" started without his consent. At the worst place possible. The North freaking Pole.
The first sense that returned to Jack was smell. Not a particularly pleasant smell either. It smelled like cleaner, hand sanitizer, and… wet dog? Then came sound. He heard footsteps. They didn't sound normal though, they sounded heavy, padded. And it was accompanied by a strange, deep, gibberish, chatter.
Weird… it sounds like… talking but I can't… make out any words…
Everything felt so hazy. Like he was still lost between the realm of sleep and reality. After a long stirring process, sight returned next. Bright lights. Too bright. He quickly snapped his eyes shut.
Ow…
"Jack, ya awake mate? North! He opened his eyes!"
Heavy thudding sounds followed and a Russian accent made its presence known. Loudly.
"Ah! He is up? Thank the moon! Jack! Is good to see you-"
He cut himself off and muttered something in Russian.
"Bunny! Is not funny to joke like that! You said he was awake!"
"I'm not joking ya bloody drongo, he closed his eyes again before I could call ya over! It's too bright in here."
The light Jack was trying to shield himself from dimmed a little, and next thing he knew, he felt a hand on his forehead. It was calloused, rough, and forting.
"His fever has gone down, thank MiM."
North's voice was softer now, filled with a paternal warmth. It felt strange for Jack, knowing it was directed at him for some odd reason.
He peeked an eye open, testing his vision. When it didn't feel like a spike was being thrust into his head this time, he opened the other. His blue irises blinked rapidly, trying to get his blurry gaze to clear. When everything came into focus, he found himself lying under white sheets in a room that reminded him of a pediatric doctor's office. There were bright colors and random medical supplies like a blood pressure cuff and other things of similar nature. Even they were colorful, painted in Christmas colors.
Jack's body ached from lack of use as he struggled to sit up. It was clear he still wasn't in tip top shape, but he was better, which was progress.
"Whoa mate, take it easy. Don't move so fast."
A paw gently made its way to Jack's shoulder and he jolted a little. Physical touch was still new for him, and he really wasn't used to Bunny being… concerned.
"Yes. Bunny is right, move slow Jack."
It took a second for the events that lead the boy here to realign themselves in his mind. The summon, the north pole, the charm thing and then… right. Fireplace. Rejection. Passing out.
It took pretty much all of Jack's poker face abilities to keep him from outwardly cringing and flushing deep blue in mortification. Three hundred years had led to plenty of embarrassing moments for the boy, but they usually didn't have an audience.
Geez, two days into being a guardian and I passed out. In front of them. I'm sure that makes me seem oh so qualified, right? So much for being responsible.
A couple seconds later, he heard wings fluttering around as Tooth quickly flew into the room.
"Jack! You're awake! How do you feel? Are you light headed? In any pain? Has your fever gone down?"
Baby Tooth was right there with her, squeaking and chirping as she flew around Jack's face. He couldn't understand her, but she looked like a little puff ball. All her feathers were ruffled up. He put the pieces together and figured that was a sign of stress.
After about a minute of the rapid fire questions and major invasion of space, North gently grabbed Tooth's arm.
"Tooth, give some space. He's still disoriented. Just woke up."
She nodded and calmed a little, hovering in place instead of over him.
"Right, sorry."
Jack kind of wished he was invisible again for a second as he saw four sets of eyes all looking at him like he'd break any second. North and Tooth- and of course Baby Tooth- were already bad enough, and they seemed used to worrying and meddling, but seeing Bunny with that look was enough for Jack to want to disappear right there. He quickly scanned the room for an open window. Could he just fly off? Nope. Nothing. Great.
"Seriously mate, how ya feeling? You had a lotta injuries when we brought ya in. Broken ribs, internal bleeding, concussion, and enough bruises and scrapes to look like a half beaten piñata."
Jack couldn't really… handle this. He wasn't used to this, and didn't like it. All this fretting and concern was so outside his normal routine that he really didn't know how he was supposed to respond. So, he went to something he was good at. Something he'd learned a long time ago from his encounters with other spirits. His little rulebook, if you will.
Deny, downplay, disappear.
He threw on the biggest grin he had, forced his muscles to relax, and kept his tone as lighthearted and at ease as possible.
"Oh come on guys, I'm fine. I just got a little banged up against Pitch, that's all! Seriously, no big deal."
They collectively adopted the same expression with a shocked blink from each. A look that said "are you serious?"
"Jack, you were unconscious for a week. I don't think that's something to take lightly. We… We weren't sure you were going to wake up."
A little flare of guilt filled his chest at Tooth's shaky tone. It was strange- especially since he only had one memory of her- but it kind of reminded him of his mom. That maternal tone played at his heartstrings.
But again, he has no idea how to respond so…
Deny, Downplay, Disappear.
"Look, I'm sorry if I worried you all, but it worked out, right? I just took a long nap, essentially. I mean, sure it was a week, but what's a week when you're immortal, right? Anyway, really guys, I'm fine. So I'll probably head out and-"
He went to stand only for Bunny to immediately push him back down.
"Oh no, you're not going anywhere until the yetis do some tests and see how you're doing. It took a lot of hard work to get you patched up, we're not letting you undo it all by doing something stupid or reckless."
He glared at the kangaroo in question.
"Um, you can't exactly keep me here. Besides, I have things to do! Snow days, freezing water fountains, ya know, the typical stuff."
Really, he had a lot more to do than that if he'd been down for a week. Mother Nature wouldn't be pleased.
"Your little pranks can wait until after you get checked out."
Pranks? Really? Just for that he debated covering Bunny's little Warren in snow. He knew where it was now, after all.
"I don't need to be checked on, or whatever. Seriously guys, I'm fine."
He went to stand again, this time dodging Bunny's attempts to keep him from doing so. His staff was on the nightstand so he quickly snatched it up before heading towards the closed window.
Wind. Do ya mind?
A second later the latch busted and the wind filtered through and wrapped around Jack. Clearly the Guardians weren't the only ones fretting over him.
Okay, okay, I'm fine. Yes, I missed you too. Now, can you get me out of here please-
His little conversation was cut off as he felt a pressure wrap around his leg. He looked down to see a golden whip wrapped around his ankle. Sandy was standing at the open door, his face uncharacteristically serious. He made two symbols. One of Jack, and one of the bed. Then he pointed with his free hand, for good measure.
"Oh come on Sandy, are you seriously going to force me to stay here?"
Sandy gave a curt nod. Even the other Guardians had backed off. It was rare to see Sanderson so firm on a request. He was the laid back one. So if he was issuing a command, it was best to follow it.
Jack wasn't the only one who tried to avoid getting on his bad side.
The winter spirit weighed his options, but even the wind seemed to have backed off. Granted, that might've been because it was waiting to see if Jack still needed it.
He sighed after a moment and stomped back towards the bed- petulantly ignoring the way it made his body ache, he felt like he had the flu. He flopped on the edge of the bed and gave Sandy a look, as if saying "there, you happy?"
Sandy let the little sand whip fizzle out and looked pleased. Then, he made another sign. One of each of the Guardians, and then an arrow of the door. He did it with a little smile, but it was clear he wasn't asking. Jack got a little more nervous. What could he have done to tick Sandy off?
The Guardians passed a look between each other and obliged. All while Jack was mentally pleading with them to stay. Were they just leaving him to his fate? What happened to their concern!? They were just leaving him to Sandy!?
They closed the door behind them, and when they did, Sandy floated over and plopped on the bed next to Jack. He made a sign of the moon, then Jack, and then a question mark.
It took a second, but the spirit put together the pieces. "What's the story between you and MiM?"
Jack didn't feel like answering, but Sandy seemed unbothered by the silence. It became pretty clear pretty quick that he wasn't going anywhere until he got his answer. So, the teen took a deep breath and steeled himself for the uncomfortable conversation.
"It's… really not a big deal. It's just that me and the Moon don't really get along as well as you guys do. We… haven't talked much."
Sandy gave a little question mark, poking for more information. Jack huffed in reply.
"Does it really matter? I mean, ask him yourself if you want an answer! He'll probably answer you."
He winced a little at how snippy that sounded. Sometimes, he really felt like a brat.
"Okay, okay, uncalled for. Sorry. I just… I don't like talking about it. I mean, there's not even much to talk about. I know about as much as you do. He's… He's never talked to me. And I've tried. Believe me I've tried. You all seem so close with him, so thankful and appreciative of all he's done, but with me… all I have is one memory. One interaction. My name. That's it."
He took a deep breath, trying to shake off the feeling of vulnerability sitting in his stomach, making him feel queasy.
"Why do you wanna know, anyway? What brought this on?"
He watched as Sandy looked at the now open window, where the Moon peeked in, regardless of the daylight hours. He seemed contemplative, as if trying to figure out what exactly to say- or, well, sign.
After a long moment, he showed a scene made of sand. It was the library again, when the Moonbeam had landed on Jack. Sandy was dozing on the couch. Only, when the moonbeam faded and Jack collapsed, Sandy was startled awake by something in his hand. Something… shimmering.
Jack didn't understand at first, but then, Sandy reached into a sand made pocket and pulled out a charm. It was a little ship with a sleeping child inside, covered in a sand blanket and resting on a sand pillow. The whole image was a brilliant, sparkling, gold. Like the dreamsand.
"Is this… yours?"
Sandy nodded, beaming with pride. A flash of images came above his head, and it took Jack a second, but he deciphered them.
Sandy gave children peace with his dreams. The calm safety of sleep, equally balanced with the imagination of dreaming. It was what he protected. That sense of… comfort, and security. And when it was jeopardized, it was the same as taking away a child's very concept of safety. It was why nightmares were so dangerous. They crushed dreams, made kids doubt themselves and feel unsafe.
No wonder Pitch worked so hard to take out Sandy… That was the fastest way to make fear spread.
The two were quiet for a moment, before Jack smiled at the sandman.
"Thanks for showing this to me. You don't have to try to convince me, though. I'm… I'm not saying MiM isn't a good guy, I know he's done a lot for you all. I know he gave you this charm. It's just I've never had the connection he has with all of you. But it's fine, Sandy. Really, you don't have to try to show me how great he is or anything-"
He was cut off by Sandy vehemently shaking his head. Apparently he'd misread what the sandman had been trying to convey by showing Jack his charm.
Sandy replayed the image from earlier again. Him stirring on the couch after Jack collapsed. Only this time, he paired it with pulling out another item from his pocket. Another Charm.
Jack's charm.
He was stunned when Sandy gave him the small trinket. And he was even more so when he saw it was… blank. It was a simple mirror. No special shape, no special color, no special design. Just… Jack's reflection staring back at him.
He looked at Sandy again, giving him a slightly puzzled look. Which the man took as his cue to explain. Once again he signed, slowly, as if he wanted to make sure Jack understood every part. In the end, the message was received.
"You didn't want it from Manny. So, he didn't want to be the one to give it to you. He didn't want to decide for you. He told me your path is still turbulent, new. It could go in any direction. You were born of two different worlds, as two different people. Those two identities have yet to converge. When they do, you will know who you are, and you can decide for yourself if you want Manny to give you your purpose, your promise, written in the form of a charm."
Jack was stunned into silence. It felt… surprisingly comforting to know that the moon understood him well enough to know he didn't want what MiM had to give. At least, not right now. Manny may have known Jack well- likely better than he knew himself from the amnesia issues- but the teen didn't know him. And as such, he didn't want to overstep. He didn't want to give Jack something he wasn't ready for.
"Born of two different worlds"… I guess he means who I used to be. Before this. But I… I don't understand. Tooth said all of the Guardians were someone before they were chosen. How am I any different? Is it because I don't remember? Was I that different before being… well, me?
It was so strange to think of himself as two different people. To view the first version as a stranger compared to who he was now. Maybe he could ask Tooth for more insight into his memories later on? Though… That still felt like a touchy subject for Jack considering what had happened when he'd gotten his teeth in the first place. Baby Tooth had paid the price, Easter had suffered, all because Jack had gone off on a wild goose chase for his memories…
He was startled from his thoughts by Sandy placing a reassuring hand on his. It calmed his racing mind. He always seemed to have that effect on people. In the same way Bunny lit up at the mention of Easter with hopeful exuberance, or how North seemed to radiate wonder and excitement at everything that caught his interest, and even Tooth, and her ability to make someone feel so seen by remembering the little details about them, connecting so easily with others. Sandy just made people feel… safe. At ease.
Jack wondered what he made people feel when they were around him. He wondered if he had any such purpose that made those around him more at ease or more excited or hopeful. He knew his center was "Fun", he'd gathered that from his memories. And yet, it seemed like there was so much more to it if his mirror and Manny's little message were any indicator. Besides… "fun" wasn't how others usually described him.
"Of course I do! You're Jack Frost! You make a mess everywhere you go!"
"You'd better leave, Frost. Before you make this a bigger mess…"
"Look who it is! Mother Nature's biggest disaster!"
"You were a mistake, Frost. That's all you'll ever be. One walking mistake."
"I can't wait until you disappear for good."
"The only good thing you'll ever do is stop existing, Frost."
Jack had a pretty good idea on what most of the other spirits thought of him. And "fun" was the last thing they'd describe him as. He didn't have that… that energy that the other Guardians had. He didn't have something about him that just screamed "Jack." Nothing good, anyway.
Turbulent was a good word for me I guess. MiM was right about his assessment. I'm not… entirely sure yet what promise I'm supposed to keep. And I think it'll take time before I figure that out.
He sighed and pocketed his charm, tucking it away safely in his hoodie. He winced a little at the movement, his arm was sore. He saw Sandy give him a little frown of concern but Jack shook it off.
"I'm fine, really. I just need a bit more rest and I'll be as good as new."
Sandy nodded. He didn't seem surprised at all by the comment. In fact, his worry seemed much more muted than the other Guardians, as if he had no doubts Jack would be just fine. He seemed to notice that the teen gave him a slightly questioning look and then made a sign of Jack and dreamsand. The winter spirit laughed. He got the message.
Sandy knew when Jack slept, thanks to his domain. Which meant he knew this wasn't Jack's first week-long slumber. So, he wasn't worried.
"Ya know, you're a lot more calm than the others. I like that about you. You balance the other Guardians out pretty nicely."
Again, this didn't seem to be new knowledge for Sandy. He gave a proud little nod, as if saying "I know." Jack laughed, and the sandman joined him silently.
After the little moment between the two had passed, Jack sighed and turned back to the open window.
"Hey, do you think you could give me a ten second head start to get out of here before you open the door again? I'm really not ready to have the Guardians worrying about me. It's a bit… overwhelming for me. I'm not used to it. I'd rather go snooze somewhere a little less… crowded. I think another week should do it, and I'll be back in good shape."
Sandy seemed to ponder this for a moment, as if weighing his options, then he nodded. But before Jack could run off, he got his attention again and signed something else. Something Jack understood quickly.
"We're always here if you need us. You're a guardian too now."
Jack gave a softer smile, less impish, more… warm.
"Thanks. I'll have to get used to that, but… I appreciate it. Hey, tell the others thanks for me too, okay? I know North was probably hovering over me the whole week I was out."
Another little nod.
Jack's smile got bigger, his chest feeling a little lighter. It was strange how little talks like this warmed his heart so much. How knowing that North and the others had worried for him made him feel noticed just as much as it made him feel guilty.
The winter spirit stood a little stiffly, before heading back over to the window. This time, the Wind seemed excited to get to fly with him again, probably feeding off of Jack's own eagerness to go back to his little cave. He gave Sandy one last look to confirm, and got a thumbs up.
And then, he was off. Leaving the pole with a lot more to think about than when he'd flown in. As well as a little charm to remind himself of the things he had learned, and the things he had yet to learn, about himself.
One thing that stuck with him the most about what he had learned about himself thus far was a simple, exhilarating, terrifying, thought.
He'd learned just how much he enjoyed being around the Guardians. And how much he really didn't want that to end. They were a strange group, but one that seemed to care about him for some strange reason. And sure, the fretting was certainly new for him, but… he kind of liked it.
He just needed time to adjust. Time to feel out if this would be constant, or fleeting. Because if the Guardians just wanted him around for special occasions or to get what they needed from him, Jack could adjust to that. But if they wanted more, if this interaction became normal…
The winter spirit found himself unopposed to that idea. In fact, it made him a little excited. He wanted to get to know the Guardians more. He wanted to learn to speak to baby tooth, and explore North's workshop. He wanted to have more chats with Sandy, and get to prank Bunny. He wanted this to be normal. He wanted this to be often. And though, he hoped the whole passing out in front of them would be a one time thing, he couldn't say the same about getting to see them.
He wanted that to happen as often as possible. Because even after three hundred years of adapting and adjusting and learning, Jack hated being alone. And for the first time in his existence… he had the thrilling hope that he might not have to be anymore.
Okay guys! Hopefully that was a good introduction! Not all chapters will be this long, I promise, lol. This was just a little introduction into the world. This is an unedited draft, so there's some areas that I'll fix later, but overall I hope this was an entertaining read! Also, updates will be Wednesday every two weeks. More updates might happen occasionally, but unless I update the schedule, don't expect anything more frequent for now. Please feel free to comment! I love to read them and they majorly help my morale for writing!