Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Chapter 1

4 years ago…

It was a warm summers evening, the Australian sun setting slowly making the sky reveal in shades of red, pink and purple with no clouds in sight. The sounds of crickets thrumming in the long dry grass, fireflies coming to life as the darkness creeps in and the sounds of nearby waves crashing along the tide from the ocean not far away…

Futher up, a mound almost an hill stood nearby and on top was stood a big old willow tree. It’s big droopy branches reaching out and far as it hung its floppy leaved arms like curtains, hiding a little spot that sat right underneath. Little white and purple flowers scattered its roots in the deep green grass that was kept moist in the willows shade. It was peaceful and private, just perfect for the young couple that embraced every moment.

A tall young man, 22 years old with mousy brown hair with mixtures of dirt blonde tousled this way and that. Sun kissed skin, a Carmel brown with light freckles dancing a long his nose and plump lips that held a smile to die for.

His lean muscle frame sat against the willow trunk, one arm behind his head and the other wrapped around a petite little lady. The olive iris’s of his eyes scanning her gentle features, admiring her beauty as she stared back with her big blue doe eyes that was framed with long thick black lashes.

She wasn’t far off from her 22nd birthday but people would mistake her for being 12 due to her tiny frame if wasn’t for her bust and hips that is.

Her ivory skin, softer than a baby’s gave off a healthy glow on her heart shaped face that was framed with thick brunette should length hair. She had a tiny button nose that held a blue diamond gem in her left nostril and her pink rosey lips smiled back, slightly swollen from a tender kiss she’d received moments ago.

”ya know Austin…I don’t think anything can beat this. I never wanna leave” she whispered, closing her eyes leaning on his chest. He chuckled, turning his head to look upwards as he still held her close.

”maybe, maybe not but ya know me. Im full of surprises” he replied, tapping her shoulder, hinting for her to get up. 

He rubbed his eyes before releasing a groan as he sat up straight, stretching his arms out before sighing. The small woman sat up along with him, her eyes never leaving his face as confusion spread across hers.

”yeeahh, you are? Everything ok?” She asked as curiosity got the best of her. He looked back at her, the smile never leaving his face. She noticed his hand go to his pocket, thumbing with what ever was in there.

”Of course Jess, nothing could beat this moment which is why…” he paused, taking a deep breath as he grabbed the object in his pocket then lifted himself off the floor, moving his weight onto one knee. The other one bent with his foot flat on the floor. 

It only took Jessica seconds before she realized what he was doing, her hands rushing to her face as she gasped, hiding her mouth behind them. Her eyes connected with his, seeing the love and devotion he felt for her and so much more. The smirk was gone and in its place was a mouth prepping to speak.

He blinked then gulped, his Adam’s apple bobbing up and down, his mouth opening as he spoke…

”Jessica…” he started, saying her name loud and clear “… remember the first day we met. You’d just turned 6 and I’d just moved in next door and your mom invited us over. Said it would be nice for us be friends. You’d got that little white bunny with the black patch on it’s eye, you was so excited to show me but I didnt like rabbits then…” Austin spoke, remembering it like it was yesterday, Jessica laughed knowing too well what was coming next…

”oh god, you took it while know one was looking - you wanted to make it look like it ran away only it didn’t haha” she laughed, he chuckled carrying on for her.

”nope. Took a liking to me didn’t it. Followed me everywhere I went. When I heard you crying, I tried to get passed without you seeing me hoping you’d see the bunny but nope. Ya saw it following me and got jelous…then you booted me in the shin”

”hey! You called my rabbit weird so you asked for it” Jessica quickly added, defending herself. He couldn’t help but agree.

”ok, fair enough but anyways …since that day we just couldn’t stay away from each other, we was constantly bickering and picking on each other until that time you was selling lemonade. This other kid came out of nowhere and threw your stuff all over then thought it was funny to push you over” Austin spoke, his head going down knowing what was coming next.

”listen, that kid asked for it and if you hadn’t stuck up for me that day we might not be where we are today” she spoke softly as she got on her knees and place a hand at the side of his face, gently stroking his cheek with her thumb.

Austin looked back up, his green eyes connecting with hers as he put his hand on top of hers and smiled.

”yeah maybe. Since that day we became friends, then we became best friends. The day we engraved our initials on the tree” he said, the both of them slowly turning towards the A an J marked in the bark.

They both smiled more as they turned back to face each other “I remember it well” Jessica spoke softly as Austin slowly knodded.

”yeah. We then went from best friends at 7-8 to dating at 14. My love for you only grew and grew until I realized that I wanted this girl, I wanna marry her and I wannna grow old with her because there is no one in my life that I want more than you Jess…

…You complete me and youve made me the man I am today. With out you I don’t think I could go on with my life…

Looking in your eyes, I see our futures together. I see two little kids, a little boy and girl. My color hair and your button nose and lips an-and that thing with the eyes where they have two different colours - green and blue like you and me…” he smiled hearing her giggle, looking down to her hands.

Austin reached out and placed a finger under chin, bring her attention back towards him. His other arm lent on his knee holding the object. She gulped, feeling her eyes water knowing what was coming next…

”…so, which is why I wanna ask…” he said, moving his hand away from her face to the other had. His hand opening to reveal a little black box. He then gentle lifted the lid to reveal a silver ring with a blue diamond, the same color of her eyes.

”…will you Jessica belle filey, make me the happiest man alive and marry me” 

That was it, she broke down in tears with a smile trying not to blubber as she pounced on him, knocking him down on his back with her on top of him pulling him into a bone breaking hug. He’d caught her luckily and returned the hug as he buried his face into her neck.

”y-yes, course i will you idiot- no doubt about it” she cried, lifting her face back and placing a kiss on his lips which he quickly accepted. 

This kiss quickly turned to a make out session but remembering the task in hand, Austin flipped her over so he was on top with his arm supporting his weight underneath her and the other still holding the ring. He look down at her, seeing her eyes still watering and her lips swollen.

”you don’t know how relieved I am now ive said it” he joked, earning another little giggle from her.

They both then slowly got back up into their previous sitting positions. He held his hand out for her to place her hand in which she did without a doubt. Austin took the ring out of the box and placed it on her finger, it fitting perfectly.

Jessica moved her hand away to look at the ring, observing its beauty as it gleamed on her finger. She looked from the ring back at the man sat in front of her…

”…I love you Austin. Always have and Always will” 

“…I love you too Jess. No matter what happens, you’ve got me. You’ll always have me and always will…”

…

…No matter what happens…

…

you’ll always have me…

…

and always will…

…

…

Always have me..

“Urm miss?” 

Jessica’s eyes snapped open, reality hitting her as she remembered where she was. She looked at the woman before her who was stood at the check out waiting to serve her. In her hands held a big bunch of mixed flowers with shades of pink, purple and yellow in. 

“oh my god, im so sorry I-I must have drifted off” she apologized. The young woman looked at her with a sympathetic smile.

”Its fine hun, we all have them days. That’ll be $3, cash or card?” She asked. Jessica forced a smile and held her card up, scanning it on the card machine waiting for that ‘ting’ noise.

The machine tinged, printing the receipt which the woman passed over for Jessica to take. The small woman took it then waved the woman behind the counter goodbye, leaving the store in a hurry az she ignored the strange looks from the people that had queued behind her.

Once Jessica was outside she then scurried over to the little blue car parked up the street, one that had gotten a parking ticket for being on a no parking Zone…

”oh for fuck sake, again!” She shot, grabbing the ticket and shoving it in her pocket as she quickly scrambled into the car placing the flowers on the passenger seat whilst she turned the echnition on.

She sighed, throwing her head back at the head rest. This is the third ticket this year she received. What was getting into her lately? Then again it doesn’t matter right? It’ll be over soon.

Shaking the thought away she put her foot down slowly, pulling away from the Kirb and heading off down the street.

It took a good 30 minutes to get where she wanted to be. Turning left, Driving down the dusty road which was part of some kind of street where 5 houses use to stand. 4 months a demolition was in place. A condo was in plan to be built in their place. More money to be made but each time Jessica looked, the more it broke her. Two of them houses was hers and Austin’s childhood homes. The homes that they first met in. 

Each memory was being taken from her but god forbid they ever touch the willow tree, that she will fight for - if she’s here that is. 

Jessica quickly parked up in the empty car park just on the outskirts of the street. She hated this part of the journey, not only because of treasured memories being destroyed but also bringing memories back she wanted to forget. Memories of being abandoned twice after Austin disappeared. 

His family couldn’t bare the pain of loss and left one night, leaving everything behind with out a note and her parents disowning her when they learnt of her secret…the one she never got to share with him.

She sighed, slamming the door shut and storming round the car to the other side. Opening the passenger door, she gently grabbed the flowers and shut the door.

The walk was a good 10 mins through the long grassed fields that had began to change color as it got colder. A twining dirt path that stretch throughout the land by a picket fence which had rotted down over the years.

It felt like ages but the little mound with that special tree stood on top was in view within seconds. The sight always brought ease but at the same time pain, remembering everything that happened here and what could have happened.

before she knew it, the branches tickled her shoulders as she slowly stepped through them, reaching out her hands to let them entangle with the leaves. The air got colder as she looked on, seeing two plaques on the trunk under the engravings both she and Austin had done.

The last bouquet of flowers had began to wither which was placed neatly under the plaques next to a pink teddy bear and a stuffed purple Rabbit. 

Jessica could feel the lump in her throat as she leaned down in front of them, grabbing a rag from out of her pocket and wiping the first plaque..

’In memory of Austin Jackson - A cherish son, a loved husband to be and a…Dad who was gone too soon’

That was it everytime, tears pouring down her face as she hiccuped a cry. Her hand slowly reached up to a sliver chain hidden under her sweater and when she pulled it out, hung on the necklace was the ring Austin had proposed with. The one thing she refuses to take off. 

with her other hand, holding the rag she wiped the plaque down making sure it was clean despite it not being dirty.

Wiping it down she then looked to the next plaque, one she never thought she’d see. The one made for their daughter…

’In memory of Daisy belle Jackson- born asleep. A little Angel mummy and Daddy never got to meet’

The one memory, the one that should have been happy and Joyful. The one memory that turned into a mother’s worse nightmare. One she refuses to talk about with anyone. The only comfort she has is that of Austin’s holding their daughter up in heaven whilst watching over her.

Jessica again, wiped the plaque down till it was gleaming then placed the rag back in her pocket. Turning to wards the new bunch of flowers, she laid then down against the others before placing a kiss on both plaques, tears dropping each time…

”Im sorry to both of you but don’t worry, I’ll be up there with you both soon” she whispers, standing back up, taking one last glance at them before turning back round and heading back to her car.

Later that night…

It took Jessica a good 45mins to get home after having to stop at the gas station for gas and a bottle of wine to accompany her with when she got home.

kicking her boots off and throwing her coat to the side, not even bothering to hang it up as she locked the door. She headed straight for the kitchen, dumping her stuff and the wine on the table.

Jessica then went to her room, grabbing something comfortable to wear since her intentions were to end it all tonight so she thought she might aswell do it clean comfortable.

After a nice hot shower and her normal daily cry, she climbed out, wrapped her hair in a towel n dried herself off. She then threw the PJs she picked out on and went over to the medicine cabinate and opened it. Her blood shot eyes darted to the two bottles of pills on the bottom shelf, the two bottles she kept there for that reason.

If only there was another way…

Jessica closed her eyes, shaking that thought away as she took a deep breath in and out before opening them back up and grabbing the bottles.

Now or never…

Rushing back into the kitchen, she quickly grabbed the wine and her bag and headed into her bedroom. Her safe space. 

The small woman’s eyes began to water, her hands began to she as she slowly made her way over to her side of the bed, placing the stuff on her bedside table but abit to hard as it knocked off a picture frame.

Jessica looked, slowly reaching down to grab it seeing the glass crack in the bottom right corner. Tears dropped off her cheek as she stared at the picture.

It was of her and Austin on his 18th birthday, they both got absolutely wrecked that night which resulted in a bad hangover the next day. It was a fun night but the trouble they both got into for the vomit all over the neighbors car was hilarious. 

Jessica chuckled to herself, placing the picture back on the table before sighing…

”you said you’d never leave me so what happened. Why did you disappear?” She asked more to herself than the picture.

Her eyes then landed on her bag as she reached over to grab it, pulling out a box of cigarettes and lighter. She normally doesn’t smoke, it’s just something she has occasionally to help chill her abit but even then it causes the odd choke.

Bringing the filter to her lips, she sparks the lighter about to light he cigarette when suddenly theres a knock at her door. Jessica sighs, putting the cigarette and lighter down as she goes to see who’s knocking…

”please don’t be the landlord, please don’t be the landlord” she murmurs, peeping through the spy hole to see who’s there but weird enough theres no one there. She hesitates before unlocking the door to peep outside only there was no one anywhere.

She was just about to close the door when she noticed a small box on her door mat. Again she looked about to see if she could see anyone before picking it up and locking the door behind her.

’strange? I wasn’t expecting anything’ she thought but it had her name on. Just her name. No address, stamp or even a post address. Just her name.

slowly walking back to her bedroom, she dropped the box on her bed and poured herself a glass of wine and lit the cigarette, questioning herself wether to open it or not. What the heck?

She took a drag of the cigarette and a sip of the glass before reaching for the box. It wasn’t heavy but you could definitely feel something in there.

Ripping off the tape that seal the box and lifted the lid, styrofoam fell out from the impact but what got her attention was the weird looking thing on the inside which appeared to be some kind of headset. 

“I don’t remember ordering anything like this” she muttered to herself as she lifted it out the box to observe the item only when she did a note was revealed underneath. She picked up the note and it read…

’escape reality to an amazing place where anything can happen - it’s free of charge

kind regards

C&A’

Jessica re read the note again, unsure what to think. She looked around her surroundings before placing the headset and note  beside her, taking another drag of her cigarette. She then used her free hand to grab the box and empty the load to see if there was anything else in there but unfortunately no, just loads and loads or styrofoam.

Throwing the box to one side and downing the glass of wine, she then placed the cigarette in an hand made ashtray from an old yogurt pot.

Without hesitation, she grabbed the headset and inspected it first before finding the power button and some weird charging portal.

She then slowly put it on her head, adjusting the straps to fit and just like that she found the power button again and pressed it…

“GET BACK HERE YOU PEICES OF SHIT!”

In a colorful world, full of wacky shapes, random music and talking obstacles. In a rather unusual normal size circus tent with the inside being larger than the outside with three floor levels, rainbow tubes and floating pieces of the sky, three figures was running as fast as they could away from the oddly ‘glued’ up puzzle character.

”quick, there catching up to us” screamed a clown dressed in yellow with big read shoes. He was falling behind due to his feet.

”just shut up and run ya clown” shouted a frog looking character who was second to front with a big red bow tie and blush circles on the cheeks.

”quick, this way” the character in the front shot. He was a tall purple rabbit with yellow eyes and teeth and pink overalls. 

“I hope to god you ain’t taking us to the ball pit again Jax, it took for ever to get them balls of me” the green amphibian argued, catching up to the rabbit.

”c’mon Ribbit have some faith in me and besides you should be more concerned for you boyfriend. He’s tripping over himself” Jax pointed out, seeing the clown trip and land on his face with a honk.

”oh for crying out loud Kaufmo” both she and the rabbit stopped, quickly rushing back to grab him. The angry puzzle peice wasn’t far behind.

”oh shit, it’ll be the last time I give you the glue Ribbit. Anyone but Zooble” The rabbit shot, dodging a flying limb the puzzle character threw.

”WHEN I GET HOLD OF YOU THREE IM GONNA FUCKIG KILL Y-“ they screamed before tripping over their own foot.

”ha ha ha you gotta catch us first” Ribbit shouted, following the rabbit and clown round a corner which led straight to the hallway of rooms. 

Jax, Ribbit and Kaufmo ran heading straight for the rabbits room. At the same time a doll with one button eye and a brown chess peice wearing a red cloak was walking down the opposite way, seeing the three menace running towards them…

”what have you done now, Jax!” The doll shouted but the rabbit quickly cut her off, as he pulled his door open for his friends to run in.

”shut it Ragatha before and throw a centipede filled bomb your way” and with that he dashed into his room, slamming the door behind him. 

He looked up to see Kaufmo and Ribbit sat on his bed, holding there breath as they waited for the signal. He let a long breath out before smiling and giving the thumbs up. 

And just like that all three burst out laughing, Jax dropped to the floor as he held his stomach. Ribbit fell back on the bed cackling and Kaufmo got to his feet, calming himself down before straightenig up an heading to the rabbits chest of draws, picking up there special camera neatly displayed on the centre.

”shall we take another selfie for the collection of success?” He asked, gaining the frogs attention straight away as she sat back up, smiling. 

“hell yeah, another successful prank achieved” she cheered, fist pumping the the air before rushing over to Kaufmo and pecking his face with froggy kisses.

Jax just sat there with a small smile as he watched them both coy with each other, something that had bugged him for while but not just because it’s them but because he felt an empty void in his chest, something that felt like it was missing.

“Yo, earth to Jax?” Thr rabbit returning back to the present, seeing Ribbit snapping there fingers in front of his face.

” Uh wai-what?” He shot, shoving her hand out of his face. He noticed Kaufmo was stood beside her with a concerned look on his face.

”you ok, you’ve been doing that a lot lately?” The clown asked, watching the rabbit rub his eyes and sighing before getting to his feet only to walk towards his bed and face plant.

”yeah im good, thanks” he mumbled through the bed sheets, loud enough just to be heard.

Ribbit bounced back up and hurried to her friends side just to double check he was there.

”good, gonna say where out of printing paper my good old bunny” she stated, poking him in the head. He looked up from the sheets and glared at her.

”technically im still the youngest-“ he tried to state but got cut off by the frog again.

”ya know that doesn’t count, just because you don’t age doesnt mean ya age doesnt change. Try and tell everyone ya 22 but in reality you’re 26. Im 23 but in reality im 28, same with Kaufmo. Right cupcake” she finished giving thumbs up to the clown who returned it with his own thumbs up.

”whatever…it’s in the box” he said bluntly, dropping his face back into the sheets. Kaufmo knodded, walking over to the big weird looking trunk sat in the corner. The one trunk everyone has in there room. The memory box.

He hesitated before Swinging it open, dust bunny’s litterally ran out and disappeared into the air. Ribbit saw and quickly hurried over, worried on what the clown was doing.

”whatcha doing Kaufmo. This is his personal box. We can-“ she started whispering before her eyes landed on the things inside. Kaufmo was too busy looking for the paper as he rooted around. 

Some weird looking things in here to say it’s Jax’s things he thought. Theres a catapult, some old fishing hooks, recipes and receipts, old movie tickets, an ‘I love you teddy bear’, a hoodie an Beenie hat, band aids, certificates for certain levels of degrees and projects. A driving liscence with no name, a passport with no name - even the certificates had no names on. 

kaufmo shook his head, shaking his head as he rooted deeper. Ribbit had took a liking to the catapult, pretending to aim at something on the ceiling.

The more the clown looked the more he found but what he came across most was photos, a photo of the beach with a girl turned away sun bathing in a two peice set and another photo with the same girl in a hospital bed but her face turned away again.

There was actually quite a few photos with this girl - one with a young boy and girl with their arms wrapped around each other and another one of them doing the bunny ears behind each others head but there was one photo that stood out more than anything, one of a man and woman sat together at what seems to be a birthday party…

”wow, I never thought I’d say this but Jax is a hunk” Ribbit said, earning glares of Kaufmo as she looked at the photo in his hands.

”hey!” He shot. Ribbit laughed

”im just stating. Don’t get ya knickers in a twist. He’s a hunk but OMG she is fucking gorgeous, who do you think she is Kauffy” Ribbit questioned. Kaufmo looked back at the picture, looking behind it for any hint.

”not sure. Maybe his girlfrie-“ the clown answered only to be cut off from behind.

”WHAT THE FUCK!” 

Kaufmo and Ribbit jumped, turning round to see a seething Jax stood right behind them. Ribbit slowly reached behind her, shutting the trunk gently and Kaufmo slowly stretched his arm, handing him the picture.

Jax looked and snatch the Picture out of his hands.

”I said the box not my fucking trunk, that’s personal shit…” he shouted gesturing to the plastic box next to the dresser. 

“oh, why didn’t i realise that” Kaufmo mumbled loud enough for Jax to here.

”Maybe because you guys are too darn nosey and just can’t leave my things alone. I mean you looking at my…” he stopped mid sentence when he saw the picture, when he saw her. The missing peice im his heart…

Its her…

Bringing the photo closer, his ears dropped and his expression softened. If he could see her one more time, he’d do anything just for that. For her.

”Jax…who is she?” Ribbit asked softly, concerned for her friend, she looked at Kaufmo who looked at her then back at Jax.

”We can’t help you if ya don’t let us” the clown added. he’s starting to feel a tad guilty for invading his privacy. 

Jax sighed and walked back over to his bed, taking a seat as he stared at the photo. His thumb delicately stroking her face…

”sh-“ the rabbit was about to explain till a ricochet of sparkling pixels rippled through the surfaces and walls, causing a small shake which resulted in a few objects falling off the walls.

Jax ears perked up, eyes wide as he jumped to his feet, Kaufmo and Ribbit too Jumped up and hurried over to the purple rabbit. He gulped, looking down at his two friends, all of them with the same  thing on their minds…

”oh boy” Kaufmo muttered

”a new humans coming” Ribbit finished.

Chapter Text

Chapter 2

Jax, Ribbit and Kaufmo all stood together as they watched an listened.

The frog wasn’t wrong, she witnessed it 4 times -2 of them being the rabbit and clown. But this one felt different. There should have only been the pixel ripples but the vibration afterwards was new, almost mimicking an after shock from an explosion. That never happens and it appears shes not the only one who realised.

”wh-what. That! The shaking never happened before” Kaufmo panicked looking back at his friends.

”well we ain’t gonna no why stood here are we?” Jax said, looking at the clown as he began to make his way over to the door. Ribbit jumped, grabbing his arm.

”what about Zooble, there gonna be looking for us” she reminded him but Jax just shrugged her arm off. Placing the photo in his overall pocket as reached for the door handle.

”just chill. Zooble will be just as curious as us to see what’s going on” he reminded her as he looked at her then at the clown. They both stood looking, about to follow when an announcement was made through the invisible telecom that randomly appears from time to time- Caines voice heard clear as daylight.

‘Greetings my shining superstars. You all probably just saw the pixelations jump about which we all know what that means but the shakiness is worrisome so please if you all will, make your way down to the stage so we can wait for our new cast member and decided where we go from there. See you in a jiffy’

Great, there required to go wether they like it or not. Jax groaned opening his bedroom door.

”looks like we ain’t getting out of this one Ribbit. End of the day we’re gonna have to face them at some point” he told her, letting them both out as he held the door open.

Ribbit rolled her eyes, grabbing Kaufmos arm and began walking in front. 

Jax pinched the gap between his eyes as he turned to his door. Moving his hand he locked up, shoving his key in the pocket he then raced towards his friends to catch up.

It didn’t even take a minute for them to reach the stairs outside the hallway. Looking about they all saw the others stood together whilst Caine was floating above complaining about something bubble did.

They wasted no time Rushing down the stairs and across the hall, reaching everyone else Caine was instantly happy to see them…

“Good to see you three joining us at last..” with that everyone turned towards them giving them a disapproval look, Zooble was more pissed than anything since one of their limbs was stuck on top of their head.

”You three are dead when this is all over, I’ll make sure u-“ Zooble began to threaten that was until Caine cut them off.

“Now Zooble, violence is not the answer. Im sure theres more of a suitable punishment. After all glue is not to be played with” he stated looking back at the trio, like Zooble was paying no attention anyways.

”why don’t we pick a punishment for you Zooble. Maybe have them tidy your room for week” Ragatha suggested.

”or maybe have them clean up the entire place” The brown chess peice added, getting nods from her male counterpart who was a sand wood coloured Chess peice. 

“They could help me with my insects” he mentioned only to get a look of horror from Ragatha.

”all these idea are good but the tent cleans itself and we know they can’t look after insects…” Caine chimed rubbing his co called chin.

All of them but the three trouble makers agreed, nodding their heads as they turned back towards the stage.

”Cant we just apologize and promise to never do it again” the rabbit said, getting strange looks from Ribbit and Kaufmo. Zooble burst out laughing.

” You guys? Apologize? You don’t know the meaning never mind saying it. If I had the opportunity I would feed you to the bubble” they shot, Kaufmo nervously chuckled whilst Ribbit and Jax looked back n fourth at each other.

Ribbit was about to defend themselves until another pixalated wave shot through the circus ground but this time with a loud grumble. The vibration nearly knocked the doll and puzzle peace over whilst the two chess peices clung to each other. Jax and Ribbit grabbed the nearest thing to hold themselves up on and Kaufmo dropped to the floor hiding himself with his hands. The ribboned girl with the comedy mask didn’t move as she was sat on one of the sofas near by.

Caine looked around himself, looking for the source. Usually the human pops out of no where on the stage but this one was coming else where as a faint scream could be heard getting louder and louder by the second. 

The dentured ringmaster then realized the screaming was coming from above. This human was coming from the sky, coming in hot and fast…

”oh dear lord! Everyone scatter!” He shouted as everyone jumped away from where they was.

”AAAAAAHHHHHH…”

Everyone looked up to see something falling with speed! Jax, Ribbit and Kaufmo jumped behind the nearest cube. Ragatha and the two chess peices dived behind the nearest sofa pulling the ribboned girl from behind with them. Zooble just ran fast as they could, looking behind them to see Caine magic up a big bouncy castle.

The screaming creature of read, blue and yellow headed straight for it, diving so hard all the castle towers bowed backwards from the force then before they knew it, the castle spat them out aiming right for Zooble. 

They didn’t get chance to react as they crashed into Zooble making a bowling noise as all the puzzle parts flew in all directions - the word ‘strike’ popped up above the scatted limbs.

”Zooble!” Shouted the ribbon girl as she peeked from behind, panicking for her partner.

”wooh, 1 point!” shouted Ribbit only to be pushed back behind the cube by Jax.

Everyone watched after seeing the parts of Zooble rain all over from the impact as the new person was still on the move, rolling straight into the nearby wall with a loud crash.

Caine snapped his fingers, making the now inflated castle disappear and Zooble into one peice again. Everyone jumped from behind there hiding spaces, rushing over to all the commotion. 

Caine was the first one there, inspecting the new tradition who appeared to look like some kind of Jester, a tiny Jester as they lay upside down with their face on the floor and their legs hanging above their head.

”well, you like to make entrance don’t cha” he said, hearing a groan.

The jester lifted her face from the floor, here eyes like scribbles as she tried to steady her vision.

”is she ok?” Ragatha asked as everyone caught up with her at the front. Jax, kaufmo and Ribbit were at the back trying to keep their distance from Zooble.

”uuurrr what..happened?” She said, her eyes returning to normal. Soon as they did, her eyes widened. She dropped to her side and quickly scrambled to her butt, her back against the wall as she hugged her knees.

”you my dear crashed the party” Caine said, popping right in front of her. That was it soon as she saw him.

”aaaahhhhhh” she screamed making the rabbit cover his ears due to them being sensitive, Ribbit just looked at him and Kaufmo. The female chess peice rushed forward to try calm things down but she didn’t exactly get a good reaction from jester as she screamed even more.

”hey hey hey, calm down ok. Well all had the same reaction when we saw him, but you get use to him…” she said managing to stop her from screaming, instead she began to heavy breathe like she was panicking.

”where the fuck am I? Who are you people? What the fuck is going on?” She screamed, her hands grabbing her bangs that hung about her head. 

Queenie saw, gently kneeling down in front of but not so much to scare her as she looked at her with soft eyes…

”do you remember putting an headset on?” She asked. The jester looked at her confused before nodding slowly

”ye-eah…I thought it was- this wasn’t ment to happen! Im not ment to be here! Im ment to be with the-them” she pleaded, her eyes beginning to water as she buried her face in her arms.

Queenie looked back at the others. Ragatha looked concerned with a hand over her mouth, the male chess peice also had a look of concern on his face along with the ribbon character. Zooble looked away not knowing what to say and Kaufmo, Ribbit and Caine just watched on.

Jax on the other hand, his eyes never leaving her. There was something about her he couldn’t put his finger on but seeing her cry actually made him feel something. Hearing her say them last words kinda reminded him of what he left.

Queenie turned back to the girl, thinking a sec before carrying on. She gently placed a hand on her shoulder but the girl freaked, jumping away on to her side. The confusion she got from the others didn’t go unnoticed. The girl ignored it, being used to it anyways…

”sorry I didn’t mean to startle you…” the chess peice spoke again. She watched the jester grab her arm, slowly moving back onto the floor but a few inches away.

”it’s fine…don’t worry about it” she mumbled not looking the chess peice in they eyes .

”right urm….Yeah the headset. Theres no way to put this nice but once you put that headset on - your life sauce is dragged here. Im sorry to say this but…we’ve been trapped years…me and my husband kinger, we’ve been here for about 20 years and Zooble, the puzzle character - they arrived three months ago an-“ the female chess peice explained trying to be delicate as possible until someone cut her off..

”theres no escape, where doomed for eternity so ya might as well say bye bye to your old life because u ain’t gonna see them again” Ribbit finished. Earning glares from everyone, including Jax and Kaufmo.

”RIBBIT!” Ragatha, Queenie and Zooble shot.

The jester started breathing hard again, feeling a panic attack coming along. Her eyes turning into scribbles again…

”theres no way out…THERES NO WAY OUT! Theres gotta be, I need to get back home. I don’t wanna be here!” She cried, looking to everyone before hugging her knees again. 

“none of us want to be here” Jax mumbled under his breath, loud enough that only Ribbit and Kaufmo heard.

Caine on the other hand felt hurt but like always hid it and changed the subject.

”C’mon guys it’s not that bad…anyways new human…what’s your name?” He said, getting right in her face making her freeze up. Queenie gently pushed him back to give her space.

The jester paused thinking for a moment before it dawned on her that she didn’t know her name no matter how much she thought, she couldn’t remember anyone’s name apart from the name ‘Daisy’. The idea on not knowing scared her, making her think what kind of place this is…

”it’s ok, none of us remember our names when we arrive…”the doll stepped forward “…we end up choosing our own names. Im Ragatha, this lady in front of you is Queenie - the mother in this place, this is kinger, her husband” she gestured to her left.

”Im Zooble and this pretty ribbon girl is gangle, my girl” Zooble added, winking at Gangle who giggled.

”That’s Caine the ringmaster and an ‘AI’, he’s the boss with no understanding of personal space or feelings and that weird round thing with sharp teeth is bubble. He is something you need to be aware of…“ Ribbit stated pointing to the floating characters above the jester “…im Ribbit, this clown is Kaufmo - my man and the purple twink is Jax” she finished, earning a glare from the purple rabbit.

The jester looked around at everyone till her eyes stopped on the rabbit. She remembers a purple rabbit back home but where? That’s gonna bug the hell out of her. Jax raised an eyebrow at her sudden interest in him. He cleared his throat, looking towards Caine…

”so Caine, we gonna give the girl a name an move on” he said, gaining the dentures attention.

”oh yes good point Jax! So my dear, what’s your name. It can be anything you want” he said, breaking the girls attention from the rabbit.

She stared at Caine, unsure how to answer that question. It’s something you never have to deal with since you get given a name at birth but then again, this isn’t birth. It’s a virtual reality game, you get a character and ya pick a name. That’s it. But it’s a game you’re trapped in for ever. It’s a new identity and judging by everyone else’s appearance and the red and blue colours on ya hands and feet, she was likely something wacky aswell. She sighed…

”I dunno, pick anything. I don’t really care” she stated, not bothering to look at the teeth man or anyone else in that matter. Her eyes just stared at the black and white tiles.

”okay…anyone else got any suggestions?” Caine asked, looking from the jester to his other cast members. None of them exactly knew themselves as they looked at each other and shrugged “ ok then, looks like it’s the name machine then…”

And with that, a snap of his fingers a big yellow slot machine fell behind them. Caine, not exactly being considerate grabbed the girl and dropped her on her feet in front of the machine.

She didn’t even get chance to react it happened that fast but thoughts aside she watched the weird looking tooth fairy hover as he pulled the lever. Five spinning slots shot off, different letters changing from A to Z.

Jax, Ribbit and Kaufmo who was at the back now at the front not far behind the jester watched. Remembering when the machine was last out. The names it’s through out was hilarious at times especially when Caine pronounced them…

Ragatha stepped forward in line with the three, side eyeing to make sure they didn’t plan anything stupid but looking at Jax’s face told a different story. He watched on with no expression like he wasn’t there. Ragatha watched, staring too hard which made the rabbit turn her way as felt the burning eye of the doll.

The rabbit glared, turning back to the machine as it began to slow down, stopping…

”what about…XDDCC” he said, pronouncing the letters. Ribbit burst out laughing while Kaufmo slapped his hand on his face. Jax obviously tried his best not to laugh but again he failed. Zooble huffed, slapping each one of them at the back of the head.

”grow up you three!” They shot, taking a place next to the doll. 

The jester looked behind her, seeing the frog and clown holding the back of their heads still in fits of giggles, the rabbit to rubbed his head with a smile till he saw her looking at him. Caine quickly broke that with his loud mouth…

”ok terrible, try again” he span the machine waiting for the machine to stop. Again the girl slowly looked behind her to see him staring back. Like him, she too felt something in the pit of her stomach but again she couldn’t put her finger on it.

It didn’t go unnoticed, both Ragatha and Ribbit noticed. The doll, a mature woman who took in every detail knew there was something and she was determined to find out and Ribbit well, they’re are the complete opposite. Soon as the jester turned back round she elbowed the rabbit…

”pss…” gaining his attention “…looks like someone has a crush on you” they teased. Jax rolled his eyes, looking elsewhere but the girl.

The machine slowly began to stop until a name was actually displayed.

”ok, how about Pomni” he asked. The jester just quickly glanced at him then to the floor…

”whatever I guess, better than the first one” she mumbled, Folding her arms across her chest and keeping her vision on the floor. Caine snapped his fingers again, making the machine disappear. He then hovered back above everyone, happy as Larry. 

“Brilliant, everyone meet our new member Pomni. Now usually I would send you off on an adventure but I need to look into the shaking situation and why out little Jester fell from the Sky and not on the stage so till then no adventures as I don’t want to risk anyone else flying so in the mean time, make Pomni feel at home and don’t break anything” and with that, he disappeared.

”ok im off to chill before I decide wether to butcher you three or drowned ya with my fist, ya coming gangle” Zooble said, walking over to the sitting area. Not wanting to be part of the home welcoming thing. Gangle smiled, turning back to the Jester and gave a small wave before following the puzzle character.

Queenie and Kinger walked towards Ragatha who hadn’t moved as she watched the jester as well as the trouble makers.

”Do you wanna take care of this one, I can see you both becoming good friends” Queenie whispered as she placed a hand on her shoulder. Ragatha smiled, followed by a knod.

Queenie gave her a thumbs up then looked at the rabbit, frog and Clown. She cleared her thought loudly getting there attention and with that she pointed two fingers at them then pointed them at her eyes clearly stating ‘im watching you three’. 

They nodded, straightening up as they watched her and Kinger walk towards one of the many pillow forts that had been built in random places. Ragatha then cleared her through, taking a few steps to the newbie…

”Hi Pomni, you want me to give you a tour of the place and get you settled in…” she asked, Pomni looked up at her with something on her mind.

”yeah, sure but …can I ask something” she asked delicately. Ragatha nodded with a sympathetic smile.

”sure, ask anything” she said, Pomni thought for a second before speaking 

“urm…why did the weird teeth man call me a jester” she asked, Ragatha was about to answer until Ribbit jumped in pushing the doll out the way.

”because you are a jester?” She said bluntly. Ragatha glared at the green amphibian as she climbed back to her feet. She was about to give her what for when the frog dashed away towards one of the many mirrors in the circus.

Pomni saw straight away, watching the frog point at it. She took a deep breath as she slowly made her way over, terrified for what she was going to see.

Ragatha, Jax and Kaufmo watched the scene before them. The doll couldnt help but turn to the rabbit, wanting to ask something…

”hey Jax you good? You seam abit spaced out” she said, trying to be friendly as possible. Jax just rolled his eyes again with ‘touché’.

“Yeah doll face, never better” he replied, hiding behind that mask he always seems to have up. Ragatha wasn’t convinced, trying to push more.

”you sure, your never this-“ she tried to ask but the rabbit just cut her off.

”listen, drop it or im gonna cut that head full of yarn off and glue dozens of centipedes to ya head!” That was it, Ragatha closed her mouth and turned back to the frog and Jester. Jax, smirked with success but the feeling kept coming back making it fall as he too watched on.

Pomni slowly stepped in front of the mirror and was absolutely gob smacked with her new look.

She was as an actual jester. Her body suit with puffy sleeves and shorts decorated in stripes of red and blue with gold seeming and big yellow Pompoms that went down the centre. Her hands with miss matched colored gloves and her feet with miss match shoes, opposite to her gloves and on her head a big red and blue jester had that had two dangly pompoms with golden seeming.

Looking at her face, her eyes amazed her  with red and blue pin wheels staring back accompanied with thick black lashes that framed her eyes but a few layered the top left eye and a few layered the bottom right eye. Making it kinda…odd. Her cheeks had rosey pink blush spots under each eye which laidback upon her milky white skin. Her shoulder length brunette hair framed her face with two bangs hanging over her forehead.

Pomni also noticed that she was actually quite tiny, her head was no bigger than Ragathas but circle shaped and her hour glass finger was obvious in her suit with two small legs and arms as limbs. She was mesmerized but what made her a jester? she wasn’t funny and she certainly wouldn’t wear something like this, to think though she is a sad person but who can blame her.

The reaction just forced a quiet ‘oh’ as the frog smiled down at her.

”that is why you got called a jester. Because you are a jester” Ribbit said bluntly. Pomni looked at her then back at the mirror before she noticed the doll come up behind her. 

“Youll get use it, we all do eventually so … how about the tour. We can go see if your rooms ready” Ragatha Chimed, Pomni looking straight at her, eagerly nodding.

”yeah that would be great” she forced a smile. The doll smiled back before turning to the other three.

”what about you guys, you tagging along” the doll bluntly asked hoping for them to say no but like always it’s the complete opposite.

”well duh, us animals and clowns have to stick together, isn’t that right guys” Ribbit answered. Jumping over to her buddies, Wrapping her arms around them.

”Yeah, the more the merrier” Kaufmo agreed. Ragatha just huffed rolling her eyes and crossing her arms.

”yeah, why not. Im sure we all can build a bonding friendship with the newbie” Jax finished, instantly getting both jester and dolls attention.

Ragatha raised an eyebrow, unsure how to react to that statement an Pomni, she was trying her best to pin where she heard that voice before.

”I seriously do not trust you guys” the doll shot, watching the frog take the lead as everyone followed, heading towards the stairs.

”your just a stick in the mud Ragatha. You wanna make sure your seams aren’t too tight… wool bag” The frog muttered the last part even though the doll still heard.

“that’s it!” Ragatha began charging towards Ribbit. Instantly diving on them and wrapped their plush hands round her neck. Choking the frog. Kaufmo instantly intervened, trying to split the two apart which resulted in the poor clown being pulled in.

”Could kinda…do with ya …help ya know…aargh the dolls heavy” the clown screamed. Jax just laughed as he watched his friends get beat up by a doll. Pomni looked, taking quick glances at the rabbit next to her which fortunately didn’t go unnoticed.

”nah, we’ll leave ya to it. Catch up when ya done” he shouted. Hinting for Pomni to follow.

The both of them climbed the stairs, the jester checking behind her every so often to see if they stopped but alls ya could see was a big grey dust cloud with random limbs and words popping out. Jax however was more curious about the jester and to why out of everyone, she keeps getting his attention.

Here he is, walking with her to the hallways of rooms instead of watching the fight, betting on who will win. No wonder people keep questioning him. The silence was awkward as they walked, their steps matching each others like a slow synchronizing rhythm and like usual someone has to break it…

”soo…wanna explain why ya keep glancing at me or is there something on my face” he asked in a joking manner. Pomnis face blushed even redder from the upfront question. She looked any where but him as she plodded on beside him.

”I-I dunno…you remind me of a p-purple rabbit back home plus …I had a rabbit once with a black patch on it’s eye when I was little” she explained as she started to fiddling about with the pompoms on her suit.

Jax on the other hand nearly tripped over his own footing when she said the last bit. He remembers a rabbit with a patch when he was younger. A weird one. Maybe…what if?

Nah he shook his head, shaking that thought away. A rabbit doesn’t mean anything, how many rabbits in the world had a black patch on their eye, right? He was to much deep in thought when someone shoved him, breaking him out of his train of thought as he fell to the floor.

“stop staring an kiss already” Ribbit joked, getting glares off the rabbit and a confused look from the jester. Ragatha came storming by the frog, barging bu her in the process as she made her way to the jesters side.

Jax quickly scrambled back to his feet stomping over to the frog who stood with a big smirk on her face.

”fuck off Ribbit. Not everyone is an eye fucker like you so lay off will ya” he shot. Shoving her back before turning around and storming up the hall way.

“And for the record my hearts already taken” Pomni said, not even bothering to look at the frog as she turn around and began walking the same direction Jax went. Ragatha followed, sticking her tongue out at the frog before catching up to the jester. Ribbit glared, checking behind before she too followed. Slowly.

Only a few steps later and they stopped again to see a room with Pomnis face on. Ironically it was across from Jax’s room.

”well, this is where you’ll be sleeping and what not. It might not be to your taste at first but you’ll get use to that. You’ll also find a memory box in there full of things that have important meanings an stuff, things ya don’t want to forget” Ragatha explained, trying to give her as much detail as possible.

”an look who ya neighbor is. Tell ya someone is trying to say something here” Ribbit again, trying to make a joke of it but no one found it funny.

”why don’t you shut up Ribbit and go see if your boyfriend has managed to get off the floor yet” The doll shot, getting pissed off with the silly comments. 

“He’s fine. Listen don’t tell me what to do doll face, I speak when I want and do what I want ok -“ she began arguing back but the rabbit cut her off.

”what like you decided that you could root through my trunk full of personal shit” Jax shot back making Ragatha gasp in resulted.

”oh please, you guys keep things like believing it gives ya hope that you’ll see them again. They’re supposedly know you miss them. Just fucking accept they’re gone. You’re never seeing them again, end of! No more mummy, daddy, girlfriend, boyfriend, grandma, sibling or even kids. It’s bye bye brats, gone forever, no more-“ Ribbit maliciously shot back, pissing both Jax and Ragatha off but it was the jester that cut her off.

”SHUT UP!…” Pomni shouted.

Ragatha, Jax and Ribbit all looked back at the small girl, forgetting she was there but only this time they see her tear streaked face and the anger bubbling up inside her. 

“you have no right to tell anyone to forget. No matter what, whether you like it or not. We have loved ones we chose to keep. You can believe this fantasy all you want but…” the jester shouted, all three of them listening to her every word as tears fell. 

The jester took a deep breath in and out before she slowly walked over to her newly found door, turning her back to all three of them.

”…4 years ago my world shattered but I’m not giving up, not yet” and with that she opened her door, stepping inside and just as she was about to close it Ragatha stopped her.

”Pomni I-“ she stopped when the jester looked back at her “for the record, ive not given up” Ragatha said, earning a smile from the small girl.

”and neither have I” Jax also added, looking Pomni in the eyes.

She smiled at the both of them, grateful to hear she wasn’t alone and that her newly found friends wasn’t quitters. Thinking that she closed the door behind her with a gentle click.

Ragatha and Jax stared at the door for a few seconds before hearing quiet muffled sobs from the other side. The doll hesitated to knock whilst the rabbits ears dropped. They both thought ‘maybe she needed some alone time’ to let it all out but they will stay nearby just incase they’re needed.

With all all the commotion, the pair had forgotten about the frog stood with no expression. It was only till Ribbit spoke that got their attention…

”maybe I need to reconsider things and think about what I said” that said, more to themselves than anyone else.

”ya think!” Jax shot, storming over to his room. Opening and slamming the door behind him quickly before anyone could object.

Ragatha on the other hand just glared at the frog biting her tongue before she ends up fighting again. Knowing that she stuck her nose up with a ‘hmph’, spinning around as she turned her around as she too headed to her room leaving the green amphibian alone in the hallway, thinking about her actions and the pain shes caused…

Chapter Text

Chapter 3

Later that night, everyone else had gone to bed. Gangle and Zooble to the puzzle peices room, the two chess peices to theirs and Ribbit an Kaufmo to the frogs. Ragatha and Jax never left their rooms after the disagreement earlier caused by Ribbit. So it was pretty quiet…

Pomni however, was still awake. She’d been on and off sobbing and somehow made it onto her red and blue bed with a dark oak canopy. She couldn’t sleep, she was scared, confused, lost and yet drained. All she wanted was out of this cruel world yet she got thrown into an even worse one that didn’t make sense?

Talking teeth, walking dolls, chess peices that had hands, ribbons that moved like a person, talking animals and Zooble…what was they?

Nevermind, Pomni closed her eyes and inhaled before she forced herself up as she threw her legs over the edge of the bed. She opened her eyes, seeing how far down the floor was - she hated being small. Everyone towered over her, especially the rabbit.

The purple rabbit that has always ended up on her mind, the one opposite her door. She still can’t work out what it is about him that seems to entice her. Maybe she should go and talk to him…Nah! Pomni slapped her face, knocking the thought from her mind.

The little Jester looked around the room, it was Mainly arrays of red and blue stripes but the floor and furniture was all dark oak like her bed canopy. There was a tall dresser, a mirror and a bedside table. There was a lot of toys to say shes a grown woman - building blocks stacked up to the ceiling, a jack in the box by the dresser and a teddy bear sat in the far corner. 

At the otherside of the dresser was a big a dark wooden trunk that had patterns embroidered in the silver metal framing with the word P engraved in the centre.

She remembered Ragatha mentioning a memory box - maybe that’s hers.

Pomni jumped off the bed, tugging her hat off and throwing it on to her bed along with her gloves and shoes. She then unbuttoned her suit leaving her in her blue and red underwear. She was happy to have it all off but it still didn’t change the fact this was her new body.

She still had her breasts and curves, all her lady parts in fact but her skin didn’t feel like skin. It felt like rubber more than anything. That’s gonna be fun to have when it comes to slides…

The little Jester just pushed the thought to side along with all the other 1000 she’d had today as she walked towards her dresser, pulling one of the draws out seeing more red and blue. She sighed, yanking a red item out. She looked at it to see it was some nightdress or an over size shirt one or the other. It didn’t matter as long as it did the job then Jobs a good’n.

yanking it over her head, it fell down to her knees with the neck line being a bit to big since as it fell off one of her shoulders.

Great. Now that was done, she looked back at the trunk, deciding whether or not to look. She didn’t know what was in there but it held parts of her life. On instinct her hand reached to her neck, looking for the one item she promised to never take off but it was there. The ring wasn’t there an neither was the necklace.

Pomni began to panicked, looking around to see if it had fallen off anywhere but it was no where in sight. She rushed over to her Jester suit to see if it had been tugged off with it but again, it was no where to be found. That was it she began to hyperventilate, her eyes turning to scribbles as they dashed all over.

”No No No…” she cried. It was the last thing she had of him. It can’t be gone. Think think think…

Then a throught crossed her mind…’what if it was in the main hall? What if it came off when she fell’

Pomni didn’t think twice, she rushed over to her door, pulling it wide open and dashed out not bothering to close the door afterwards as she ran down the hallway, out of sight.

What she didn’t know was she wasn’t the only one awake. Further up from her room, about 4 doors down a frog and Clown couldn’t sleep either and thought it would be a ‘great’ idea to torment a purple rabbit.

Slowly opening the door and tiptoeing out, both Ribbit and Kaufmo checked to make sure the coast was clear before making a move. Target in sight, they quickly and quietly made their way to Jax’s door and just as they was about to open it, Ribbit noticed the newbies door wide open. She looked at Kaufmo and smiled, about to walk over …that was till the clown grabbed her arm…

”Please tell me you ain’t snooping again” he whispered hoping he was wrong but off course this is Ribbit.

“How else are we gonna know things about her. You be the look out and tell me if ya see anyone coming…” she whispered back, scattering over to the jesters door with Kaufmo slowly following behind.

”how many times is it gonna take for you to learn. You’re invading people’s privacy” Kaufmo said, stopping at the door to watch out. 

“Ha, says you who ‘accidentally’ invaded Jax’s” she spat. Kaufmo rolled his eyes and decided to not argue.

Ribbet smiled, feeling successful once again as she turned back to the room she was now in. Her eyes scanned the place, seeing how it resembled the jester perfectly but at the same time a constant headache in the making. 

She looked at the bed and noticed the jester clothes that had been chucked all over. Ribbit silently clapped her hands, rushing over and grabbing the jester hat.

”He Kauffy, ya think Pomni would let me borrow this” she quietly said, posing like a little cherub. Kaufmo looked back at her then shook his head, turning back to the hallway.

”put it back Ribbit and hurry up before she comes back” he mumbled, eager to go.

Ribbit dead eyed him “party pooper” she muttered throwing the had back in the bed ready to leave the room until her eyes caught the box…

Pomnis memory box…

”Bingo” she mumbled, jumping over to it and yanking the lid open.

Her eyes widened at the stuff. There was a book, loads of paper and prescriptions for meds. Certificates and a driving liscence with no name. A lemonade jug, a stuffed rabbit, a torch and a video camera. 

Further down she found a pink teddy bear with the name ‘Daisy’ sowed in the stomach, a ring with a blue diamond, a hospital band with no name and a…pregnancy test that was positive?

Ribbits gasped, realizing one thing about Pomni…shes a mum. God the guilt hit her hard, no wonder she reacted the way she did. Any mother would go in distress if they got taken from their babies. Aw man…

The frog gently placed it back, about to close the lid when she noticed some photos in the corner. Reaching in she grabbed the Polaroids and flipped them over.

The first photo was of a little girl holding a rabbit that looked exactly like the stuffed one in the trunk - weird? Moving the photo to the bottom the next one was of two little kids covered in paint laughing whilst by looks of it, painting a fence.

She sniggered moving onto the next one but this one caught her attention- it was of a two teens eating spaghetti, one strand was being slurped between them both. Her eyes narrowed looking at their faces, shes seen them faces before…

Ribbit moved to the next one, a young man posing like a weight lifter on the beach with the ocean behind him. It slowly started to dawn on her. She moved to the next one and that was it, her eyes widened making her gasp. The same photo that was in Jax’s box

…a couple huddled together, posing for the camera with an 18th birthday banner behind. The same hunk she complimented and the pretty girl next to him…

….

it hit her like a train…

….

…Pomnis the girl stood next to her friend, the girl Jax has been missing for the past 4 years. 

The shock had gotten her heart beating a million miles an hour, she didn’t know what to do…

The frog gently put the photos back where they was only to noticed another picture but this one was in a frame. She looked back at Kaufmo to see he was looking at her. Instead of saying anything, the green amphibian waved him over.

One last glance out the room before he hurried over to his partner who looked like she’d seen a ghost. The look of concern was evident in his face as he looked at ribbits face who’s attention was on the picture…

”you ok?” He asked, making her look back at him.

”we’ve gotta tell Jax” she whispered turning the photo to show Kaufmo. His eyes widened instantly.

”oh my god” he said, taking the photo in his hands.

This one was of a man and woman huddled under a big dangly tree. They both look so happy as she flashed her hand towards the camera showing off the engagement ring…

kaufmo looked from the photo to Ribbit only to see her rummaging back in the box. He raised an eyebrow wondering what else she was doing but before he could protest she found the ring that was in the photo. The one she found moments before she saw the polaroids.

”before you say anything. Im taking this and im gonna show Jax. When he asked where I found it then I’ll tell him in Pomnis room. The rest is down to him” she explained, taking the Photo out of Kaufmos hands and putting back in the box.

The clowned rubbed his face, debating whether to agree or not but either way she’ll do it whether he likes it or not. He got to his feet and walked over to the door, sticking his head out.

”as long as that’s all then fine. After that we stay out of it. It’s their business not ours” he put straight, looking back at the frog who was staring at the ring.

The pregnancy test came to mind again and the fact Pomni was a mum was shocking but now thinking about it, the rabbits been there all her life judging by the photos-

“oh my fucking god” realization hit her again harder.

”what?” Kaufmo asked, worried for what ever the reason is. Ribbit quickly hurried over to him, pulling him out the room and closing the door. She checked both ways of the hallway before coming close to the side of his face…

”I think…Jax is a dad”

She moved away to look him in the face to be met with the same expression. He too stared in shock as he looked by the frog to rabbits room. He wanted to say something but Ribbit put a finger to his lips, hinting it stays silent.

This definitely was not her secret to share and for once Kaufmo agreed.

Slowly moving towards the rabbits door, the ring held tightly in ribbits hand they was about to knock when they heard little footsteps getting closer until they looked down the hallway to see Pomni.

The little Jester looked absolutely heartbroken for what ever reason with her tear stained face and the tight squeezing of her folded arms. Something wasn’t right, she looked distressed.

Ribbit wanted to help. She felt awful from earlier and learning some mind blowing truths, she wanted to apologize. She stepped towards her hoping to talk…

”Pomni, are you-“ she was about to ask but Pomni just raised her hand towards her, stopping her.

”Not to be rude or anything but I just want to be left alone, please” she quietly pleaded not even bothering to look up at the frog as she walked over to her door, grabbing the handle.

”oh ok” The frog replied, looking away in defeat as the little jester disappear into her room.

Kaufmo watched, looking from the jesters door to the girl next to him. For once she actually looked guilty. He placed a hand on her shoulder, making her look at him. He was hoping she’ll call it a night an head back to the bedroom but…of course…he was wrong.

Ribbit inhaled before smiling at the clown who waited for her next move. She smiled turning back to Jax’s door, reaching for the handle.

”great, here we go again” the clown muttered, following as she opened the rabbits door slowly and quietly. 

Once they stepped in, the clown shut the door behind him and turned to face the dark, quiet room. Ribbit walked in the dark like she knew her way round and found her way to the bedside table next to Jax’s bed.

She listened, hearing his steady breathing. Her hand feeling for the lamp on the table. ‘Here goes nothing’ she thought, flipping the switch.

Instantly the room was light. Kaufmo hadn’t moved from the door since he wasn’t good in the dark but soon as the light came on he tiptoed over to Ribbit who was now crouched down beside the bed but when he stopped, he jumped seeing two angry yellow eyes peering out from under the blanket.

”The fuck you both doing” he groaned tiredly. Ribbit snickered, ignoring the fact the rabbit was pissed.

”…and good morning to you too sunshine” she spoke confidently as she stood back straight, folding her arms.

Jax huffed, stretching out the kinks in his arms and ears under the blanket before sitting up groggy, still shooting daggers at the frog.

”Care to explain why your both in my room at this time of night” he shot as he rubbed the sleep out his eyes.

Ribbit and Kaufmo looked at one another, the clown unsure as the frog just smiled on, walking over and planting herself at the bottom of the bed. Jax watched, still pissed from earlier and not exactly in the mood to talk to her after the things she said. He groan throwing himself back into the purple and yellow bedsheets, not exactly in tho mood for what ever they’ve got planned.

”let’s just say, your gonna be thanking me later because have I got news for you, lover boy” she said, making the rabbit lift his head to look at her. His face never changing.

”Couldn’t it wait until morning. I know we don’t need sleep but seriously?” He whined, looking at Kaufmo who was looking back. A look he could never work out but when ever he saw it, he knew it was serious.

Jax swallowed, his throat feeling dry from the sudden dread. Ribbit, ya could never tell what they had planned behind that cunning face of hers but Kaufmo, he was one friend who actually cared about  the rabbits feelings but yet if it was something important, the clown was there no matter what time.

He looked back at the frog who quickly looked at the clown then back at him, fiddling with something in her hand. Ribbit noticed, clearing her throat.

”well, don’t get mad bu-“ she began, being cut off instantly.

”ok now im mad. What have you done?” Jax shot as he slowly sat back up, the glares never stopping. Ribbit forced a laugh as she moved an inch closer to the end of the bed, away from the Rabbit.

”well umm. We was on our way to your room anyways and umm, ya see…Pomnis door was wide open with no Pomni…” she began. Jax knew exactly where this was going, he pinched the gap between his eyes as he scrunched his face in annoyance.

”please tell me you didn’t go snooping?” He growled, moving his hand away and turning to Kaufmo for an explanation.

”I tried to stop her but ya know Ribbit but Jax, you need to hear her out. As wrong as it is, she found something you are gonna want to see” he spoke, defending his partner. Jax raised an eyebrow as he looked back at the frog.

”thanks Kaufmo but yeah. We found photos and…this” she finished. Lifting the ring up to eye level, not far from the Rabbits face.

As soon as he saw it, his eyes widened as he held his breath. His hands began to shake as he stared at the ring in the frogs hand. He slowly reach out, gently taking the ring from the frogs fingers as he brought it closer, taking in every detail.

He remembers this ring all to well, the memory all too well. The blue diamond reminding him of her beautiful blue eyes. One thing he can never forget. He traced the edges feeling a lump form in his throat as he took in every little detail.

Placing it in his palm, his fingers and thumb closed round, holding it tight like he was worried he was gonna lose it. His eyes began to water as one tear escaped his eye, the blue droplet rolling down his cheek and falling onto his closed hand that held the ring. With his free hand, he wiped the remaining tears and looked at the frog who sat there, waiting patiently as she watched him…

”S-so this was…was in Pomnis room” he asked, unsure on what to think. Ribbit was about to answer but Kaufmo bet her to it.

”yeah, there was also photos…one exactly the same as the one what you’ve got in your box - the party one” He explained, trying his best to remember the Polaroids details.

Jax slowly nodded then reaching to the side of the bed, his hands going to the yellow and purple bedside table. His fingers found the little yellow handle to the small draw, one you’d have all your stash in but pulling it open. It revealed 100s of keys all different shapes and sizes and on top of the keys was a photo, the photo that resembled the one found it Pomnis room. The same one Kaufmo found in his memory box.

The purple rabbit grabbed it, closing the drawer back up then slowly sitting back up so he was facing the frog. Again looking at the photo, his thumb traced the girls face before he turned it around to show the two cast members.

”this one?” He whispered, scared of his voice cracking in front of them.

Kaufmo and Ribbit instantly nodded with out a doubt. He sighed, turning the photo back round to face him so he could gaze upon the happy memory.

”there was another photo…” Ribbit began, making the rabbit look at her “…but this one was under a big droopy tree and shes holding her hand up to the camera with ring on her finger”

Jax knew what she was talking about, he remembers it so well. He said, opening his hand to look back at the ring that sat in his palm.

” That’s the one where I’d asked her to marry me. Under that tree. The night before I got trapped here…” he finnished. Kaufmo and Ribbit nodded, quickly glancing at each other as they both had the same thought as the rabbit. He looked up from the ring back at the two, a small smile crawling on his face…

”well, you know what this means then” Ribbit said, looking Jax straight in the face. His face never changing, he nodded slowly as he opened his mouth.

”Pomnis my girl” 

It was the next morning and nearly everyone was awake and up apart from 4 members who was missing.

The remaining cast was sat around a long wooden table that had different plates of waffles, muffins, pancakes, bacon, scrambled eggs and toast which also was accompanied with Maple syrup and whipped cream.

There was also two choices of freshly squeezed orange juice or a hot steaming pot of tea.

Ragatha chatted merrily to both Kinger and Queenie as she sipped her mug of tea. Queenie politely ate her eggs like a lady thay was accompanied with a glass of Jucie and Kinger was sat digging in his waffles, a pile of cream sat on top of his stack aswell as round his mouth. Both ladies trying there best not to laugh when they looked.

Zooble and Gangle sat at the opposite side, the ribbon girl sipping her juice whilst the puzzle member munched on some bacon. They found their partner adorable at times, especially when they had peices of food on their cheek. They chuckled, flicking the peice of egg from her mask. 

Ragatha saw and smiled. She adored the couple before her. Zooble was good for Gangle, they took good care of her and treat her like a princess. They was so overprotective as well which Ribbit and Jax found out the hard way now no one dares say a mean word or even look her direction. The doll liked that, if only they did it with the rest of them.

Her mind wondered elsewhere, her thoughts going to the little jester who was one of the missing members. Ragatha sighed, hoping she was ok.

The first night is always rough. No one sleeps for sure and the new surroundings is kinda of nerve wrecking. She remembers her first night here and how she didn’t sleep for three nights that was until Queenie came and sat with her on the bed with the dolls head on her lap. The mother chess peace stroked the dolls hair ever so gently, reassuring her ‘everything will be ok’.

Since that night, she slept like a baby. What ever Queenie did that night, it was beautiful. The doll owed her a lot for what she’s done for her but also what she’s done for everyone else including the three trouble makers.

Queenie looked to where the doll was looking, seeing her look at the 4 empty chairs. She sighed, putting her white gloved hand on the dolls shoulder…

”they’ll be here soon” she quietly said making the doll look at her.

”it’s Pomni im more worried about. She was so upset yesterday” the doll replied as she looked down at her half filled mug of tea.

”I know dear. We all go through it but something tells me she’s gonna be fine. We just gotta make sure where here for her no matter what” Queenie added.

Ragatha nodded in agreement. That’s what she was good at and thanks to Queenie guidance she too was hoping to be like her one day. She smiled lifting her cup about to sip when Zooble caught her attention…

”great, my appetites ruined. Why the fuck did you three have to turn up” 

Everyone turned towards the stairs to see Jax, Ribbit and Kaufmo walking towards them. The frog and clown looked happy as ever as they both skipped along, pulling their seats from under the table and plonking their butts down with Kaufmo next to Zooble and Ribbit next to the clown. 

“Because we too have to eat and with a serving like this, who’s gonna miss it” Ribbit replied cheerfully as they grabbed a few pancakes. Kaufmo rolled his eyes but smiled as he too grabbed some bacon and waffles.

”listen toad face. I don’t care whether you’ve got ADHD or not but I swear to god you glue my head to my arse again and I’ll be shoving my foot up yours” they threatened. Ribbit smiled, fluttering their lashes.

”ooh, Kinky but correction, im a frog not a toad” they replied, making the clown laugh. Whilst everyone else just grimaced at the thought. Zooble huffed in annoyance, turning back to Gangle.

Ragatha shook her head looking for the purple rabbit who had just reached his seat beside Ribbit, his mind elsewhere as he stared ahead.

”Hey Jax, you ok?” The doll asked, breaking the rabbits stare as he looked back at her with a blank face. 

“yeah…just tired” he muttered followed by a big yawn as he grabbed the pot and poured himself some tea. He would prefer coffee but Caine restricted it due to a certain two cast members getting addicted and demanding more so he only allowed it on Wednesdays and Sunday’s. Today was Friday, great!

”rough night?” Ragatha asked, supping her mug before grabbing a muffin. The rabbit watched, looking to everyone else sat at the table until his eyes landed on the empty seat next to him.

”Where’s Pomni?” He asked, looking back at the doll.

”I don’t think she’s awake yet. She probably couldn’t sleep” the doll thought, looking to Queenie. Before the chess peice could speak, a frog bet her to it.

”well she was running around like a headless chicken last night” they spoke with a mouth full of food. Everyone instantly looked at her, not sure whether it was because of her manners or what she said.

”What!” They all said at once apart from Kaufmo which made Ribbit swallow her food, her eyes darting to everyone.

“Why didn’t you come get one of us” Queenie asked, confused why nothing was mentioned.

”well I did try to talk to her myself but she just told me she wanted to be left alone sooo…yeah” Ribbit replied before taking another bite.

”you never told me that” Jax argued, trying to remember everything that got said last night. Ribbit looked at him dumbfounded.

”urm I did Jax, you was just too pissy to listen” the frog replied, talking with a mouth full of food.

”stop talking with ya mouth full. It’s disgusting” Zooble shot, looking disgusted but Ribbit didn’t care. They stuck their tongue at them with chewed up food making Gangle gip. 

“maybe we should go check on her” Ragatha suggested to the rabbit who took a big swig of his tea, not even bothering to look at the doll.

”thanks for the offer Rags but I actually need to talk to her…Alone” Jax said, empathizing the last part so a certain frog would hear.

Ragatha nodded slowly, a bit disappointed but yet maybe this is a good thing. There has been some chemistry between the bunny and Jester so maybe they do need to talk. She looked back at Queenie who was about to say something when her eyes landed else where…

”oh, hi Pomni…” hearing this everyone turned back to the stairs to see the little jester plodding towards them. Her eyes was scanning the floors as she walked.

Her eyes shot up to see everyone looking her way. Pomni quickly looked behind her to check if it was her they was looking at. The little act made Ribbit snigger, causing her food to go down the wrong hole as she choked. Kaufmo saw, and started hitting her on the back.

Zooble looked at them, a smug look on their face as they watched.

Pomni too watched, confused as to why no one was helping as she walked over to the last remaining chair between ragatha and Jax.

”isnt no one gonna help her?” She asked, concerned for the annoying green frog. Jax looked from the jester to the frog and gave Ribbit one big wack to the back. A big peice of pancake shot out of their mouth, splattering on a nearby cube not far behind Gangle.

The rabbit looked back at the Jester, seeing her pinwheel eyes stare at him. He even caught Ragatha and Queenie staring in shock. Jax would never do that?

”thanks Pomni for actually caring and to you too kauffy. Seems only the clowns care about my well being” Ribbit shot, chugging a glass full of orange Juice. Zooble sniggered as they finnished their last peice of bacon.

”well that’s what happens when you don’t chew ya food” they added looking at Gangle who just smiled as she too started munching on a muffin.

Ribbit glared, in response who just went back to eating but with their mouth closed this time. Jax on the other hand turned back to the jester, a warm look on his face. 

He stared at the girl next to him, taking in all the details from the big yellow Pom poms to each thick lash that framed her eyes. He could feel his heart skip a beat as he looked, watching her chest slowly raise up and down, her breathing not loud but could be heard. He watched her fingers as they fiddled together, her eyes looking everywhere until they turned, side eyeing him. 

He quickly glanced away, quickly sipping on his mug. She turned to look at him, seeing him doing the same thing with his eyes. She knew he was looking at her, she caught him. Looking a way, a small smile crept on her lips as she looked back down towards her hands. Ragatha and Queenie watched the scene before them, both of them looking at each other before they too smirked behind their cups of Juice/ tea.

”so, Pomni…what would you like to eat. Theres plenty to chose from” Queenie asked. Pomni looked straight up to see the lady chess peice sat across from her.

”uh, im not hungry to be honest. I barely even slept to be quite frank, is there any coffee” she asked, scanning the table for the caffeinated beverage. Ragatha placed her cup down the same time as Jax. she looked at him as he looked back. The doll got an idea and looked back at him then Pomni several times, hinting to talk. Realisation hit before he cleared his throat.

”urm, we only get coffee on Wednesdays and sundays thanks to Ribbit and Zooble so theres only Orange juice and tea so…what we having?” he asked, quickly glancing at the frog and puzzle creature, the both of them looking away in embarrassment.

Pomni looked at him, then Ribbit an Zooble before looking back at Jax. She hung her hands on the table edge, her index fingers tapping away. Jax lent forward, placing his elbows on the table as he folded his arms. From what he could remember before the circus when they were humans, they both use to go to their local cafe together on a morning before work which made an amazing latte that she absolutely loved but sometimes there was a shortage of coffee which made her pout so in its place she have a fresh orange juice that seem to do trick.

Instead of waiting for an answer, he reached over and grabbed the jug of orange juice and a glass, he then placed it down in front of her as he poured her a cup. 

Pomni raised an eyebrow, watching him as he did so before putting the Jug back down then turning to look back at her.

”H-how did you know I was gonna say Juice?” She asked, picking the glass up to inspect it. Jax shrugged, looking back at his mugged as he side eyed her seeing her take a sip. He looked away only to realise everyone had stopped, watching him again.

He could feel ribbits eyes burning into him more than anything. He side eyed her, seeing a big smirk on her face along with Kaufmo who had a Similar look. He sighed as he rolled his eyes, turning away from them to look back at the jester.

”lucky guess I suppose. You seem like a jucie girl when she can’t have her latt- coffee I mean” he corrected himself, finishing his tea. He then placed the cup back down.

Pomni slowly nodded, eyeing him suspicion before taking another sip of the orange juice. Queenie was helping her husband clean the ruminant’s of cream and waffle off his face with a napkin before she clear her throat, placing the dirty rag on the empty plate in front of Kinger. Her eyes went from the rabbit back to the jester.

”so Pomni. Tell us something about yourself. Any particular interests or hobbies that you like?” She asked.

Pomni looked up from her Juice to the woman before her. Surprised by the sudden question. She could feel everyone look at her with questioning gazes, curious to know more about her. She looked back down at her Jucie, not knowing what to say.

”I ur don’t know to be honest, it’s been a while since I last enjoyed something” she mumbled. Queenie nodded, not wanting to push any further, her eyes going back to plate. Ragatha wanted ask something herself but like always a certain frog cuts in…

”what about kids?” She blurted; both Jax and Pomni quickly turned to look at her, surprised they didn’t give themselves whiplash. Kaufmo slapped his face knowing the frog just opened a tin of worms.

”Ok im done here…” Pomni said, downing her Juice. She then placed the glass back on the table and pushed her chair out.

The jester was just about to get up when the rabbit bet the doll, attempting to stop her.

”wait!” He blurted. Pomni stopped, looking back at him

”what…” she replied, her eyes meeting his. Jax gulped not wanting to ruin this moment, he didn’t care if he had an audience or not.

”come to my room later, I wanna talk to you - in private” he added, his eyes hinting behind him. Pomni looked to Ragatha then Queenie who smiled, giving her reassurance that she can trust him.

”oh uh…that’s it right, just talking?” She asked, panick evidence in her voice which didn’t go unnoticed. It made him curious on why she was so nervous and also why she panicked when Queenie touched her.

”yes, that’s all. Don’t worry I ain’t gonna hurt you and neither is anyone else in that matter” he stated loud and clear. More at the frog behind him.

Pomni exhaled before nodding, looking away as her fingers started to fumble the Pom Poms again.

”ok as long as that’s it then fine, sure” she said with a small smile which earned her a soft smile from him.

She turned away and began walking towards the stairs. Jax watched her go and once she disappeared out of view, his eyes narrowed turning back to the frog who was surprised from the sudden move…

”What the hell was that”

Chapter Text

Chapter 4

”what?” Ribbit blurted, all eyes on her.

”Kids…really?” Zooble replied. getting a couple of knods off Gangle.

Kaufmo stared at Ribbit with burning eyes hoping that would be it. Ribbit sensed it as she turned to look at him. He slowly shook his head with a ‘it’s not your secret to share’.

This did not go unnoticed which pissed off Jax more than…

”is there something else I should know?” He demanded. Staring at them both.

”wait? Something else? What’s going on?” Ragatha blurted in making the frog and clown look over to her.

Kaufmo shook his head with a forced smile whilst waving his hands back and fourth trying to imply there’s nothing but Ribbit just tends to have a lot of word vomit…

”Jax and Pomni know each other from the circus. There actually lovers and engaged but Pomni doesn’t know who Jax is and Jax only found out last night because we went…snooping” the frog blurted, taking a deep breath after that ‘spillage’.

Everyone just stared at the frog, taking in slowly what she said. The rabbits mouth dropped at what Ribbit just revealed to everyone…

”what?!” Ragatha and Zooble shot.

”snooping?” Queenie questioned.

”engaged” Gangle added.

”insect collection?” Kinger randomly blurted, getting confused looks from them all.

Ragatha turned to the rabbit who looked seething at his friend. She placed a plush hand on his shoulder, getting his attention as he looked away.

”Jax. What’s Ribbit talking about?” She asked, concerned for her friend.

The rabbit sighed, bringing his hands to his face as he began rubbing his eyes - groaning in frustration.

He then moved his hands away from his face as placed them back on the table, his eyes staring at the swirl in the wooden table. He sighed…

”Remember when I first arrived, befoe Mitch abstracted…” he asked, not looking up from that spot.

”yeah?” Ragatha replied.

”…well can you remember me acting up - demanding to let me out and droning about leaving her and wanting to get back to her…” he added, making the doll nod some more. Her eye falling to the same spot the rabbit was staring at.

Queenie took it upon herself to take over from the doll…

”… Pomnis her. This all makes sense now thinking about it” the queen chess peice spoke more to herself than the rabbit.

”yeah she is but she doesn’t know that yet and by the sounds theres a lot more I don’t know either…” he replied turning back to the frog who looked any where but the rabbit.

”And you’re engaged. Oh my god, it’s like Romeo and Julliet but you guys aren’t dead and no one’s in your way and Pomni doesn’t know…Oh how romantic” Gangle rambled, getting stuck in her own head since she was a sucker for romance. Zooble chuckled…

”you ain’t wrong but nows not the time babe” they mentioned, making the ribbon girl blush.

Jax looked to them an raised an eyebrow but shrugged it even tho he had a small smile on his face. Zooble on the other hand turned to Ribbit, getting their attention immediately.

”sooo… care to explain what ya ment by snooping?” The mix n match puzzle said making the frog smile nervously.

”well-“ she was about to say until a dentures ring master appeared with his creepy little bubble.

He looked optimistic but the same time you could see his green and blue eyes scanning the place…

”well morning my delightful circus members haven’t I got news for you guys but first, it appears we are missing someone and for once it’s not Zooble…” he chimed.

everyone sat unimpressed from the sudden intrusion on their conversation, instead they watched as he snapped his fingers then with in seconds Pomni came flying back screaming from the sudden force of being dragged from where ever she was.

Pomni then was thrown back into her seat which made her fall into Jax who then was knocked into Ribbit who pushed into Kaufmo, knocking him off his seat.

”ha 1 point” Zooble sniggered, high fived Gangle.

kaufmo huffed, getting up off the floor and back into his seat.

”how the hell did that even happen” he said sounding more of a statement than a question.

”Jeez Pomni, you seem to be thrown about like a bowling ball lately” Kinger added.

He watched as Jax pushed of Ribbit, straightening up in his chair but also helping the jester back on hers at the same time. Ragatha also reached out to help but Pomni waved it off, smiling in return since she was already back up.

”what just happened?” She asked. Looking from the rabbit to everyone else.

”Caine brought you back dear but in the impolite way” Queenie stated, giving Caine the disapproval look. 

He chuckled nervously, not liking the look she was giving him.

“I could have always sent bubble” he argued, not doing himself any favors.

Bubble floated forward, stopping millimeters away from the jesters face making her uncomfortable.

”yes. I would carry you. In my mouth” he said im such an eerie tone.

Pomni started breathing hard as those dark round eyes felt like they was staring right into her soul. The jester was just about to scream when Jax snatched Ribbits fork off the table and quickly popped the bubble.

The jester sighed in relief turning to the rabbit who dropped the fork, looking back down at her with a soft smile, gently brushing her bangs out her eyes. 

For the first time in forever, she didn’t flinch when he touched her. She closed her eyes, calming her nerves before opening them back up.

”oh yeah I definitely see it” Ragatha blurted which made Pomni look at the doll confused.

”see what?” Caine asked, also confused from the lack of information he’d missed out on.

”oh uh- um…ah Zoobles new spot, looks brilliant” she lied winking at the puzzle peice who just stared back in confusion.

Caine just floated, trying to see what the doll was on about but as usual he change’s the subject…

”I do not know what you are talking about Ragatha, your button might be coming lose but anyways thank you Jax for saving me one job” Caine said making both the doll an rabbit roll their eyes.

”yeah well, control ya freaking bubble” he shot. 

Caine just watched, looking like he was listening even tho he wasn’t. Letting it go in one end and out the other. Bubble re- appeared but this time, staying by Caines side.

”Well, your all probably wondering why im here and what an amazing day where gonna have…”

”not really but go on” Zooble muttered.

“It appears I discovered what actually happened yesterday and why Pomni fell from up there instead of on the stage and what that shaking was all about” he told them, looking straight at Pomni who was too busy staring at the bubble beside Caine.

”are you gonna tell us before the newbie gets thrown at someone else” Ribbit chimed with sarcasm making Kaufmo shake his head.

“Yes it appears it’s Pomnis fault” he said, making the Jester look at him.

”what? How? I only put the headset on”she answered.

”yeah, how could she do something she had no control over. She did the same thing we all did” Jax added, defending her.

Everyone nodded in agreement, confused why the dentures was blaming the Jester for something she didn’t do.

”well ya see. The shaking was actually the entrance blowing up which implies what ever happened in the meantime between Pomni putting that headset on and entering this realm. The headset must have been destroyed” he explained, trying to be subtle about it.

”wait! Isnt that a good thing” Zooble answered.

”yeah she practically did everyone a favor and stopped more humans getting trapped” Ragatha also added.

Caine was appalled from what he was hearing. To him it was a huge disaster but everyone else was saying it as good thing. He crossed his arms feeling a scowl crawl on his jaw.

”wait, I didn’t do anything. I was just having a glass of wine and a smoke before I- Oh no” realization hitting her square in the face.

”oh no right lady. Let’s just hope you haven’t destroyed things completely” he shot, still sulking over everyone’s thoughts.

”hey lay off! She didn’t mean to do anything and if I’m not mistaken. We didn’t know what we was doing when we put that headset on, being imprisoned against our will so don’t get ya knickers in a twist when we actually do wanna destroy this place!” Jax shot, once again defending the little Jester who was sat with a look of horror on her face.

Caine was taken back by the sudden response off the purple rabbit. He then looked at everyone else minus the Jester and saw that everyone was nodding in an agreement. 

He then looked at bubble who just floated beside him, looking with that big toothy grin of his like always.

”Bubble, tell them it’s not that bad right?” He asked.

”sorry Caine it’s not written in my contract to tell lies or to sell false advertisement” he added im his weird voice. The ringmaster just stared blankly at him.

”oh screw you” and with that he popped the bubble.

Caine grunted before forcefully crossing his arms and turning away from the his crew as the feel of hurt and betrayal got to him.

”so what adventure are we going on today then” Kinger chimed, breaking the ringmaster from his tantrum.

It was like it never happened as he jumped back in the air, giddy as ever. These adventures always seem to brighten his mood.

Jax gently patted Pomni on the side of her face, bring her back from deep with in her thoughts. She looked around at everyone before her eyes landed on the rabbit.

”wha- what’s happening” she asked quietly.

”Caines announcing the adventure for today. You haven’t missed much so don’t sweat it” he answered with a warm smile.

“Ok…today’s adventure is going to be a ‘at home’ adventure which is a treasure hunt but!… as pirates, there will be two teams. Who ever finds the treasure first will win an award to your liking” Caine announced, explaining the adventure.

Zooble as always, jumps in to try opt out.

”ok guys im off, enjoy your day bu-“ they began to get up and walk but like Pomni, they too was thrown back in the chair.

”ah not today Zooble. It’s not your turn, in fact it is…ah Ragathas day off” The dentures corrected turning to the doll who looked suprised.

”what?!” Zooble shot.

”really, like…really?” The doll asked.

”yes my dear so you go do what ya need to do and then I’ll send you off to that stable you like so much” he added, making the doll smile in excitement since she loved the horses.

“Oh wow, brilliant. It’s been like forever since I’ve been…enjoy your adventure guys” she beamed, getting up from the table and skipping towards the stairs that led to the rooms.

Zooble groaned, planting there head on the table not looking forward to this at all. Gangle smiled sympathetic as she stroked the puzzles head.

”hey, at least were together” she added.

Zooble lifted their head to look at her, trying their best to smile.

”ok guys so two teams. In team 1 will be Gangle, Zooble, Kinger and Queenie and team 2 will be Jax, Pomni, Ribbit and Kaufmo. Zooble and Jax will be the captains the rest of you are the scurvy crew aaaannnndddd… the Last team standing will walk the plank…bwahahahah hahahaha” 

Everyone just sat and watched while the ringmaster cackled like a lunatic, not even noticing the bubble appearing back. 

“Oh oh oh…do we get pirate costumes?” Ribbit asked, holding her hand up like a kindergartner. 

“Absolutely my scurvy riddled scallywags” followed by a snap of his fingers.

A black captain hat appeared on Zoobles head with a skull which also wore a blue bandanna stitched on the front. Their right hand changed from a claw to a hook and a leathery belt appeared around their waist which held a sword and a telescope, on their shoulder sat a blue parrot with a black beak.

Gangle had a blue bandanna on the top of her mask, an eye patch and also a a leathery belt but hers had a dagger and a flintlock pistol. Caine even went the extra mile and turned her ribbons blue to match.

Kinger and Queenie both had matching polka dot bandannas but Kinger possessed an eye patch like Gangle whilst Queenie had a big hooped earring on her left side. Both chess pieces wore a leathery belt like the others but Kinger’s had a sword and a flintlock pistol whilst Queenie had a dagger and rope. Not much to her defense but she was the only one who had a flint for lighting cannons. If there is cannons that is…

Think it was pretty obvious Caine had made them the blue team. 

On the other team, Jax literally mimicked Zoobles alfit but instead of blue, his was red and he didn’t have a hook but he did hold a much bigger pistol to the others and his parrots beak was orange.

Pomni’s costume was basically same as Gangles but red and her jester costume was made fully red with the golden seams. 

Ribbit had a red polka dot bandanna and an eye patch with a leather belt that held a flintlock pistol and a sword. She even had a little hessan bag of gold hanging off it.

Kaufmo had a red polka dot bandanna with a little pirates hat sat on top and a big hoop earring on his right side where his ear would’ve been. He also had rope but instead of a dagger he had a pistol and much to his luck, he was given a peg leg.

They was team red. Caine couldn’t make things more obvious. Both teams were now stood after the clothes swap, facing opposite the other team.

Jax smirked whilst Zooble just looked unimpressed. Gangle smiled and waved to Pomni whilst the Jester smiled throwing a tiny wave back. Ribbit had a big grin plastered on her face and Kinger, the old chess piece had gone to lala land whilst Queenie, like the others smiled to Kaufmo who returned it like a gentleman.

”right teams. As you can see there’s a blue team and a read team” Caine announced, hovering about the teams.

”no shit” Zooble sarcastically shot.

”I swear to god Zooble, you keep on swearing at me and I’m gonna put the censor back on” Caine threatened making the puzzle peice roll their eyes.

Pomni looked up with confusion, her eyes staring at the dentures. She then turned to the rabbit who appeared to be already looking at her. He knew by the look on her face…

”we made an agreement with Caine about giving us a privalages back. In returned we co-operate and participate in every adventure aswell as reminding Caine that we’d be happier but Zooble has to be reminded constantly” Jax said giving Zooble the pointed eye.

And as usual Zooble would reply with the finger which made the rabbit snigger, turning back to the little Jester. Her mouth made a small ‘o’ shape now understanding.

”Right teams before I was rudely interrupted. There’s a treasure chest hidden somewhere on the circus grounds, first team to find it wins. Both teams also have base which I shall teleport you to now”

Pomnis eyes shot open, about to object but she wasn’t quick enough. Soon as Caine snapped his fingers, both teams disappeared in arrays of red and blue smoke…

Trust Caine to put the teams in silly places. The blue team was based at the top of the water slide next to the digital lake which had been decorated how Caine thought a pirates base would look baring in mind its ment to start off with a ship and the tower …is nothing like a ship.

The red team was in the circus where the play castle, slides and ball pit was much to Ribbits liking and like the blue team they had pirate decorations. both teams possessed a pirate flag in the centre of the bases with a red or blue skull to resemble their team and territory.

Jax walked around, inspecting the base whilst Ribbit an Kaufmo checked the entrances. Pomni looked around, walking towards a a banner with skulls on as she felt the material…

”this place looks like it’s for a kids birthday party” she commented.

”too right it does but seriously? The ball pit” Ribbit replied as she looked over the railing down into the ball pit.

”where do you think the others are?” Kaufmo asked, looking at the captain who was making his way back over to the Jester.

”well I found a map and Judging by the blue skull, they are in the water tower” Jax answered as he opened the map, pinning it over the banner.

Ribbit and Kaufmo walked back over to Jax and Pomni where the map was. Looking at the map  one thing was missing. An important thing…

…the Red Cross for the treasure…

”ok, either Caines forgot to mark it or-“ Ribbit began only to be cut off by the invisible intercom.

”listen guys there’s been a change. If you’ve looked at the maps you’ll see the Cross missing…well thanks to bubble eating the treasure the games changed. Instead of hunting treasure, your gonna hunt the opposite teams flag which is the big pirate flag in the centre of your base with your color skull. First team to get it wins…but you have to return back to your base with all team members”

Then suddenly telecom switched off instantly leaving that ear killing ringing sound afterwards. Jax pulled his ears down, the noise hurting them but not long after, that noise was cut off to.

”thank god, that hurt.” The rabbit mumbled, rubbing his head.

”looks like we’ve got a new target hehe. ‘I will smite their tethereens and steal their treasures, ah arrrgg” Ribbit said in a voice that was ment to sound like a pirate. 

She stood in a leading pose in front of her team as she held her sword up to the ceiling with an evil grin. Kaufmo and Jax burst out laughing whilst Pomni just watched, looking from the frog to the map.

”okay…so two of us will have to guard the flag whilst the other two go and collect so …what’s the plan” The small Jester said looking to the captain.

”oh oh oh…animals collect the flag and clowns guard” Ribbit suggests jumping up and down like a school girl with their hand up.

Jax rolled his eyes at the frog, knowing very well she was gonna say that. That wasn’t the plan he had in mind and Kaufmo isn’t exactly a good fighter and he knew Pomni wasn’t exactly the fighting kind but he could be wrong.

”nah I’m the captain what I say goes. Here’s how we’re gonna do it…me and Kaufmo are gonna go get the flag whilst you girls guard ours. I know your good with a sword Ribbit and Pomni, I know you’ve got brains. If you get ambushed at least you might stand a chance” Jax said making the frog pout.

”awww no fair” Ribbit sulked. Pomni looked to her and smiled.

”I think this will be a good opportunity to bond while the boys go get the bounty” she said making Ribbit smile.

”that’s what I like to hear. Right well back to business. Our base has three exits but you girls will only need to watch two of them because the others don’t know about the third one which is what me and kaufmo are gonna use…

Their tower has two entrances but one you only use to exit aka the slide which is where we’re gonna go kauffy” Jax explained making the clown stare at him.

”how the hell we gonna climb a water slide?” He asked making the rabbit think.

”there’s a way clown just trust me. Right girls, we’re gonna go get ourselves a flag. Signal if you need us” The rabbit said

“Ay Captain” both Pomni and Ribbit straightened as they stood beside each other with their hands held above their eyes in a salute gesture.

Jax nodded with a smile, giving the little jester a wink before climbing down the third exit which was a soft tile that lifted up to reveal ladders which led down into the soft play maze. Kaufmo followed waving the girls bye.

They waved as they watched them go before realization hit Pomni, making her eyes widen.

”wait! What’s the signal?” She shouted but they was already gone. She huffed in annoyance.

Ribbit just looked at her with a smile.

”hey don’t stress. Alls we gotta do shout” she said plainly making the jester look at her with a raised eyebrow.

”really?”

”yep. I got mega loud pipes so don’t worry ya little head off and remember Jax is a rabbit, he can hear a lot more than the rest of us” Ribbit finished with a smile before turning away.

Pomni stood watching before she shrugged her shoulders about to go to her post when she noticed something in the corner of her her eye…

”wait, where’s the flag?” She said.

The both of them looked, seeing their flag no longer there. Ribbit instantly laughed, knowing too well where it was…

”smart thinking Jax. That’s one way to do it” she said, sitting on the little soft couch by the wall of the towers. 

“wait? He- isn’t that cheating?” She asked, looking out one of the exits which you could see the circus grounds out of.

“Does it matter. Soon as the others see it gone they’re gonna realise we won” she said, closing her eyes. Pomni looked back to her, seeing her not in her pirate position like they planned.

”what makes you think they won’t do same?” 

At that Ribbits eyes opened; looking straight at her. The gears turning inside her head. She had a point.

”didn’t think of that”…

A while had passed and there had been no sign of anything or anyone.

Ribbit huffed in annoyance as she carved another mark in the wall along with the other 50 odd marks that had been made. It look like some kind of a tally chart board, the marks resemble every minute that went by.

She dropped the sword and tried to find something else to entertain her…

The frog looked over to Pomni to see her strapping her belt tightly making sure everything was tide up properly and began to leave out one of the exits which headed straight into the ball pit. No way was she following, in fact she was too comfortable to move.

Stuff it. She couldn’t be bothered to follow her. Instead she closed her eyes again, letting sleep take over…

…

The frog was suddenly shaken awake to see Jax and Kaufmo stood above her. The clown holding the flag in his hands but it was the rabbits face that made her nervous…

”why the fuck are you sleeping? Where’s Pomni?” He shot.

Ribbit sat up straight, looking around the place before getting to her feet and walking over to where she last saw the jester.

”she was here and then left. I thought she would be back?” She panicked, looking over the ball pit to see if she could see her anywhere. No avail…

”and you didn’t go with her? You just let her leave…by herself?” Jax shot, covering his eyes in frustration.

Kaufmo just stood, staying out of it like always. He’s not one for taking sides but a lot of the times Ribbit just can’t help but be reckless. Maybe he should say something…

”let’s go find her” he said, succeeding in pulling the rabbits attention away from the frog.

”right yeah, let’s go before I do something I’ll regret” he shot.

The rabbit then Jumped over the railing into the ball pit with in seconds without even giving it any thought. He was pissed after all. The Frog just can’t help but make shit worse…

Ribbit quickly rushed to Kaufmo’s side, making the clown look at her with disappointment…

”thank you” she murmured.

”I didn’t do it for you. I’m getting fed up. You’re constantly pushing everyone’s buttons and then you make reckless decisions. I get grief for not doing anything thanks to you and I’ve had enough. Next time your on your own” 

And with that Kaufmo jumped out the doorway into the ball pit, following the rabbit.

Ribbit stood there watching, feeling the guilt more than ever for letting the jester leave and not taking the job seriously, then seeing that look from the clown. 

The frog sighed, sitting down and hanging her feet out the doorway, letting them dangle. 

“aaaaaaaahhhhhhhhh…”

Ribbits eyes shot up at the sound of the screaming. It was Pomni.

Without a second thought, she plunged into the ball pit, heading the same way Jax and Kaufmo went. Ignore the plastic balls that stuck to her limbs and torso…

It only took seconds for her to regroup with Jax and Kaufmo outside then circus, the balls falling off during her run but instead of being heroic and saving the damsel in distress. All three of them took in the scene before them… 

Zooble stood frozen above the jester with Gangle not too far behind. The both of them stood in shock, listening to her wail…

”…NO NO NO….let go of me!…please! Help…he’s gonna kill me, he’s gonna kill me…”

Zooble slowly looked up to the other three who just stood in shock.

”…I didn’t mean to scare her. Fuck…” they panicked. There hands reaching up and grabbing the antennas on their head.

Gangle quickly came close to the puzzle peice character, placing and arm around her as she embraced her. Trying her best to console them.

Jax shook his head and quickly dropped to the floor, trying to restrain the girl with out being booted as she flung her arms and legs about. Fighting who ever it was that hurt her…

”nonono! Get off me…please! It hurts! I’m begging you!…please spare my baby’s life…” 

Hearing the last part of Pomnis scream, everyone looked at one another before their eyes fell on to the rabbits face. His eyes widened, his face going emotionless whilst still holding the jester. The girl screamed and fought in the rabbits arms.

”please don’t hurt her! Please don’t hurt her!…”

Jax clearing his throat, his face going the jesters face as it screamed in horror. Her eyes like scribbles and her mind elsewhere. 

He swallowed the lump forming in his throat and moved so he was sat and with his arms, instead he carefully wrapped them around her and turned her towards his chest as he placed her on his lap. Holding her close in a protective embrace. 

He then gently rocked her back and forth, his jaw, muffled by her hair. The bandanna had come off during her struggle but that didn’t matter, he needed bring her back…

”Pomni I’m here…it’s ok I’m here. No one will hurt you again” he said, gently repeating it over and over but loud enough for her and the others to hear.

The screams eventually turned to sobs, her eyes watering up but the words never stopped…

”He took my baby….He took her…They took him  and then they took our daughter. They took the last thing I had left of him…They took her…” she sobbed, her speech lessening as the last part came out slow.

Jax’s eyes had teared up watching. Hearing her sob her little heart out about their daughter he didn’t know about. A daughter he never had chance to meet because of someone who was cruel and Evil…

… And because he wasn’t there to protect either of them.

That guilt he suddenly felt. The pain that appeared. He’ll never be able to forgive himself for one simple mistake. The mistake that cost him his daughters life and almost Pomnis…

A tear rolled down his cheek. The more it dawned on him and what he lost and what she suffered all thanks to that stupid headset…

The headset Caine seems to be ‘very upset about’.

The rabbit  squeezed his eyes shut and listened, only hearing her steady breaths as he looked down to see she’d passed out from the sheer trauma and sobs. He took a deep breath, pulling closer as he buried his face into her hair and cried.

Zooble and Gangle just watched, not knowing what to do or say. Kinger and Queenie had also heard the commotion and came over to see what was going on. Kaufmo and Ribbit, like the others stood clueless not knowing the answer either…

Alls they could do was watch the heartbreaking scene before them.

They watched as Jax broke down, crying into the jesters hair as he rocked back and fourth still holding on to a passed out Pomni…

“…I’m so sorry…. I am…. I should have been there for you both and I wasn’t….Why did I leave you, why …please forgive me…I promise I ain’t going no where again…I’m here, your safe…your safe…”