Chapter Text
Technoblade let out a sigh, running a hand through his pink hair. He could feel the sharp edges of frustration poking at his back as he slumped over his desk, furiously scribbling down notes. There were so many things that didn’t add up but that didn’t matter. What mattered was that he would note down all known information before he forgets. He paused, the tip of the quill pressing down against the pad of paper.
“What- what was I-”
He shook his head and looked down, staring at the hastily scribbled words. He didn’t know why he was writing nor what it was. He sighed and brought a hand to his forehead, setting the quill aside. He’s been doing this lately. He’d be writing things down then he’d stop and forget why he was writing in the first place.
He leaned back and combed a hand through his ruffled hair. He straightened it out, feeling his hand untangle some knots. He shivered as a breeze passed him and he looked at the place it came from. It was odd that even a bit of wind had entered considering Pogtopia was situated inside a roofed ravine. He shook his head and looked back down at the journal.
He’d have to read it soon to see what nonsensical ramblings he had written before he forgot what it was about. He shook his head and closed the book, setting the quill down. He jumped in his seat when Wilbur’s voice echoed along the walls.
“You can’t be serious, Tommy!”
“What?”
“What happened now?” Technoblade drawled, leaning against the chair with a slight smirk. “Did he burn down another forest?”
“No.” Tommy scowled.
“Almost.” Wilbur corrected, hitting him at the back of his head lightly.
“Yeah well-”
“Come now, Tommy.” Technoblade rolled his eyes playfully, “We all know Manberg is aiming to destroy all wildlife… we can’t have you doing that stuff for them.”
“Right…” Tommy huffed, crossing his arms. “I was just trying to… intimidate them.”
“With what?” Wilbur snorted, covering his smile. “Anyways, we’ll have to prepare a whole lot more.”
“Why is that?” Technoblade blinked, looking up at Wilbur.
“They’re planning on destroying wildlife to expand.” Wilbur explained, “We’re literally camping out in the wildlife, if they manage to find us…”
“Right… sudden death.” Technoblade snorted, turning back at his desk. “Either way, unless they dig down-”
“They’ll never find us! Exactly what I’ve been telling Wilbur!” Tommy insisted. He turned back to Wilbur and started to talk about many things, of which Technoblade tuned out in favor to focus on the journal.
“By the way, Techno…” Wilbur muttered, “You’ve been so focused on that journal.”
“I- I have?” Technoblade turned to Wilbur, his eyes gleaming with hope for some way to know about how he acts during his blackouts.
“Yeah, you leave for your expeditions and all… then when you come back, you’re pale and rushing to write in that journal of yours.” Wilbur explained, his brows furrowing.
“It’s like you saw a ghost.” Tommy chuckled, “Like, actually. You’re super pale and jumpy.”
“Does something happen when you go out, Techno?” Wilbur looked down, his brows creased.
“Ah, no.” Technoblade turned back to hide his terrified expression. “I- uh, I’ll just go ahead and check on the farm.”
“Oh, right! About that, I would have Tubbo here in a few days. He said he already asked for a ‘day off’ or whatever so he can help us turn that farm automated.” Wilbur paused, “If that’s alright with you?”
“Of course.” Technoblade waved it off, smoothing his face so he could turn back and smile. “Do whatever, I’m just going to check if it’s doing good.”
“Right, thanks Techno.” Wilbur smiled back, waving as Tommy turned back and started to gain his attention again.
The moment Technoblade turned away from the two, his face morphed into one of curiosity and fear. What happened during his expeditions for him to come back so frantic and pale?
As he made his way to his potato farm, he felt another cold breeze but he could sense something different. It was as if a hand had settled on his shoulder. He shivered and shrugged it off, shaking his head. He could’ve sworn he heard a slight cackle but he shook it off as rocks falling off the walls of the ravine. After all, there was no way someone else was with him right now… right?
A blonde man snickered to himself as he lent back against the air. It was quite entertaining to fool around, especially at a time like this. His toxic green eyes followed the pink haired man as he walked away and he chuckled once more. It was always hilarious to poke fun with such a monotone character. He walked on air and passed through the walls, appearing once more on the surface where the light shone.
“Ah, who else should I poke fun with?”
His eyes roamed the still and peaceful forests. He dropped to the ground, feeling the air surround him. Many would call him a god, with his power and influence over the world and its inhabitants. He’d like to think of himself as more of a powerful person than a god. After all, no god would favor one side over the other.
He chuckled and stepped forward, finding himself in the middle of their little civilization. He looked around, walking along the wood path as he took in the sights. He missed the sight of the towering walls of the land called L’manberg, liking how it ostracized it from main civilization. Now, everything just seemed perfect. Too perfect.
He shook his head, turning away from the now free nation. It brought a feeling of disgust just looking at it. He enjoyed it when there was anarchy and chaos. When everything was divided and everyone had the feeling of distrust. That way, he had every chance to have his fun and watch everyone squirm.
He chuckled and moved to stand by where the walls once were. They were such a beautiful sight. Such a beautiful sight to destroy. He felt the beginning of a smirk grace his lips as he looked at the beautiful view before him. He had enjoyed altering their thoughts to be opposing of each other. The chaos, the drama- everything felt so exhilarating. It was beautiful to watch.
Especially when he had altered one of their own to betray…
He cackled, bending over as he wheezed. Everything after this should be fun. He’ll let them have their peace. For now.
He turned and started to walk, moving to a certain area that he enjoyed staying at. He lingered for a moment before he fashioned himself a mask out of thin air. He smiled, hiding his face with the porcelain object. Once it was fastened with a green ribbon, he ran a hand over his chest. A long dark green cloak appeared on his person. He turned, resting a hand on the hilt of a netherite sword that glowed.
“I just have one problem…” He muttered, looking down at the buildings. “That little anarchist seems to know just exactly what I am…”
He sighed, brushing the thought out of his mind and moved down from the hill he perched atop. As soon as he descended, he was greeted by his two companions and his smile turned sinister underneath his mask.
“Dream!” George grinned, standing beside the taller male. “How was your little trip?”
“It was fine.” Dream chuckled, bumping shoulders with the shorter male. “How’s everything going?”
“It’s going great!” George chuckled, “Though, Tommy and Wilbur did come and almost burnt down the forest.”
Dream laughed, bringing his hands behind his head, “Pff, classic Tommy.”
“Right? Though Schlatt didn’t seem that much affected. It could be because…”
Dream tuned out the rest of what George was speaking about. He knew why Schlatt was so indifferent about it. It was in his plans to destroy all wildlife to expand, after all. He chuckled and shook his head, turning his attention to Sapnap and Karl whom they passed. He hummed and snapped his fingers, his eyes narrowing at their direction.
He smiled when they blinked for a moment before adopting mischievous grins. That should be enough to bring a bit of chaos for now. He turned and listened once more to what George was saying.
“-believe that they have Technoblade on their side.” George huffed, crossing his arms. “Like, who knew he was in the forest just hiding away?”
“That’s true.” Dream stopped right in front of the gates of the castle. “We would never have known.”
“They got lucky this time.” George rolled his eyes, pushing up his goggles. “Either way, Schlatt will definitely win.”
“You’re right.” Dream agreed, glad his mask hid away the smirk on his face. Only he knew the outcome of this little feud for only he would be the one who would lead everything to whatever end he desired. “Why are you so worked up about it anyways? Pogtopia doesn’t have any materials whatsoever. They’re banished and not welcome in either faction…”
“Yeah, I guess I got worried that maybe Technoblade would make everything worse…” George rubbed the back of his head. He turned back, “Anyways, why did you stop here?”
“I just wanted to speak to Eret.” Dream shrugged. He placed a hand on George’s shoulder as he shifted his mask a bit, showing his soft smile, “Either way, George… Even if they have Technoblade on their side it’s everyone against them… I don’t think anyone could fight that many people… Not even Technoblade.”
“Right.” George grinned up at him, his eyes shining. “I shouldn’t have worried.”
Dream moved his mask back in place as he chuckled, “You shouldn’t have.”
He waved as George ran off, talking about how he would go find and bother Sapnap. Dream smiled and turned back, looking at the magnificent castle before him. While he had agreed to name Eret a king, that didn’t change how powerful Dream still was. He walked into the castle walls, looking around with a soft smile. He’ll just speak with Eret once. He’s sure the man would agree with him anyways.
“Dream!” Eret yelped, seeing the mysterious man. “I didn’t think you’d visit?”
“I’m here.” Dream extended his arms out, chuckling as Eret moved to straighten his cape and crown. “Anyways, I’m just here for something really small.”
“Oh?”
“Just conversation purposes.” Dream hummed, moving to stand before a window. He looked out, waiting for Eret to stand beside him. As they both looked out, the sun began to set and Dream smirked. “Eret… what are your thoughts on everything that’s been happening?”
Eret eyed Dream nervously, “I’m quite neutral about it all. It was unexpected but well… the outcome was done in a democratic fashion so we can’t really argue, can we?”
“True.” Dream hummed, tilting his head. He noted how the man had avoided the answer and instead gave such a roundabout one instead. “But what are your personal feelings? Come on, you can trust me.”
“I-” Eret stiffened when Dream settled a hand on his shoulder. He blinked before he shook his head, smiling up at the man, “Yeah, you’re right.”
“Great.” Dream dropped his hand, knowing that he finished doing what he came here for.
“I just think it’s unfair for Tommy and Wilbur to be banished… they have nowhere to go.” Eret muttered, looking out into the sunset. “They were betrayed…”
“It was an unfortunate turn of events.” Dream agreed, leaning against the window frame. “Would you say that it’s unfair to the point that it’s pitiful?”
“Yes.”
“Don’t you think it’s pitiful that Wilbur and Tommy are all alone?” Dream continued to prod, testing the limits of the man.
“It is.”
Dream smiled. He patted Eret on the shoulder, “I’ve always believed in chasing after what you believe in… I just want you to do what you think is right, Eret.”
“Dream?”
“Just know… I’m on their side too.” Dream brought a finger before the mask, imitating how a mother would keep their child silent. “Let’s keep it between us, huh?”
“Of course!” Eret chuckled, “It is only fair, after all…”
“Yes…” Dream turned, waving at the king. “Anyways, I shall be off. I have an itch to explore.”
“Ah, right. Take care.”
“I always do.”
Technoblade sighed, leaning against the tree. He brought a hand to rub at his forehead, the other clutching the worn diamond sword. He had gone out to clear his head but overestimated the amount of daylight left and now he’s lost and he had just fought ten different monsters at once. He dropped to the ground, leaning his head against the bark of the tree.
He was exhausted but he’d have to head back before any new monster sees him.
He perked up when he heard a crunch of a dead leaf. He stood up, readying his sword as he scanned the dark clearing. His eyes snapped towards an approaching figure and his guard didn’t lower despite being confronted with a familiar mask. Somehow, memories flooded his mind and he didn’t feel any more comfort from seeing the white mask.
“Dream…”
“Techno, hello!” Dream waved, his mask not giving away any emotion.
“You- what are you doing here?”
“What? Am I not allowed to visit a friend?” Dream mused, stepping closer.
“Could I even call you a friend after what I learned…” Technoblade hissed.
“That’s… subjective.” Dream chuckled, waving it off. “Plus, I helped you didn’t I? Gave you the materials you needed?”
“They are things I could’ve gotten on my own.” Technoblade straightened, narrowing his eyes at the masked man. “I didn’t need a god's help .”
“You say that with such contempt…” Dream sighed, moving the mask away from his face. Technoblade was faced with the same toxic green eyes that almost had him fooled. “But in the end, we’re both the same.”
“Whatever you say, nerd.” Technoblade drawled, keeping the sword leveled against Dream. “What’s so say you aren’t just flying around?”
“I do that a lot.” Dream admitted, cupping his chin as he regarded Technoblade. “But I’d never do that to you… I gave you your anonymity for a long time… I thought you’d repay me by being on my side.”
“I never questioned you before, my mistake.” Technoblade murmured, backing up to keep distance. “I turned a new leaf…”
“So have I.” Dream chuckled, “I’ve turned into a saint, do you not believe in second chances?”
“I do but I don’t believe you.” Technoblade barked out a laugh. “Turned saint? Since when?”
“Since now.”
“Old habits die hard.” Technoblade lowered his sword.
“But that doesn’t mean I can’t make new ones.” Dream shrugged, turning to the side. “You don’t trust me…”
“I must confess… I don’t.” Technoblade deadpanned. “There’s nothing to trust from someone who can control everything.”
“But at least believe me when I say I’m on your side.” Dream smiled, tapping on the mask. He watched it disappear and chuckled.
“That’s hard to believe.” Technoblade drawled, leaning against the tree with crossed arms and narrowed eyes.
“What? You’re not going to rush back?” Dream sneered, “Scared that I’ll erase your memories?”
“No.” Technoblade scowled.
“Smart…” Dream huffed. He waved his hand and left, “Which means I won’t erase your memories this time.”
“What? Busy?”
“Maybe.” Dream brought a finger to his lips as he smirked. His eyes gleamed with malice as he backed up into the dark forest, “I heard there’s another meeting between Schlatt and Quackity… Oh to be in the room where it happens…”
With that, he disappeared, his figure a mere whisper of the wind. Technoblade scowled, pushing himself away from the tree. He let out a sigh as he looked up at the stars.
He can’t believe he’s lost again...