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sea-side-scribbles · 1 year

Text

Fanfiction: You Always Meet Twice

Link to ao3

Chapter 47

Nick fell asleep eventually as his adrenaline wore off. When a coughing fit woke him up the next day, he sat up to see if Howard brought him another drink. Instead, he saw a group of Headboys standing in front of his cell and froze. For a moment, they gaped at each other.

Nick feared they came to punish him for the sudden end of his show. But then they began to speak all at once. “Nick!” “Sing for us again!” “Play your guitar, Nick!” “Just one more song!” Nick could swear those intimidating thugs just turned into fanboys. Before he could answer, a louder voice bellowed over all the others. “What the fuck are you doing? Get away from him! You give him a heart attack!” “Aww, he's a delicate little artist, isn't he?”, one of the Headboys purred. “Don't worry, we don't hurt him!” “We don't bother you, right, Nicky?” Finally, Nick had a chance to speak up, but another coughing fit ruined it.

“That's it! Let me through if you wanna keep him!” Howard made his way through the group, opened the cell and somehow slipped inside without letting anyone else in. He even locked the door again. “Nope, you stay out”, he answered to the fan's protests and placed the mug and a teapot on the bed stand. Nick quickly helped himself. “There you go”, Howard sighed. “You have a fever? Any pain?” “My throat”, Nick croaked after his first, wholesome sip. Then he wiped his brow. “I...I think I have a fever, too...” “Shit. I told you you were killing yourself...” The man paused to think. Nick winced. “Am I dying?” To his relief, Howard chuckled. “Not so soon, princess. I'll go get the antidote for you.”

“Why do you get to go?”, a Headboy threw in. “Don't you have a shift to make up for? Let me go instead.” “And why would he let you go?”, another one replied and then they started fighting over the task. “Hey!”, Howard yelled and they fell quiet. “I'm responsible for him because I brought him in and only I have permission to care for him. You boys get back to work.” “But we keep him company as long as you're gone!” “Does he look like he wants company? If you wanna be any useful, get him breakfast.” “Now who's the caretaker?” “Right. This isn't about him, you just want an excuse to take a stroll and do fuck all! Get out of here!”

They bantered and the group eventually agreed to bring Nick food. Nick watched them, fascinated. He had fans. And in a way, he also had a manager. Someone who brought him medicine when he felt awful, just like Virgil used to do it. So – the show was a success. Nick smiled to himself and drank more tea. Soon, the group came back and shoved plates through the bars.

Nick went to gather the offerings. He got cake, a sandwich, biscuits and the usual blue currant. The last one gave Nick a can of orange juice that he opened and emptied quickly. It was very satisfying to drink something that tasted good for a change. Crumbling the can in his fingers, he rasped “Guys, you are incredible. I'm so hungry...” “That was hell of a show last night! Howard made such a big deal out of you and I expected nothing. But he didn't lie”, one of them blurted out while Nick wolfed down the sandwich. “Who are you?”, someone else asked. “What's your real name?” “My name is Nick”, Nick said and wiped crumbs from his pants before he busied himself with the cake. The group silenced and Nick gave them a look, both pouting and challenging.

“Okay...?”, the same man as before said. “Your sound and style are pretty close, so...” Nick sighed and put the plate down. He licked icing from his lips before he answered: “Listen, I am Nick Lightbearer. I can't prove it now that my voice is fucked, but you've seen my moves, you heard me. You just begged me to sing again, like all my fans do. You make me feel at home and I'm sorry that I can't sing for you....” He had to cough again. “Ah...hell...I hope that antidote helps.” “It does”, the Headboy said. “You'll lie down for a day but you'll be good.” “What's in that stuff?” “It's like the tea, but stronger...I don't know. I just know it helps.” “Huh...okay...If you don't kill me for being knocked out for a day...” “Why would we do that?” “Because I...I...Am I your bard now?”, Nick asked with furrowed brows. “Pff, bard. You're our next star!” “We were hoping you'd play a few songs now...” “Ah, I'm sorry, lads. I could play guitar for you, no vocals, though.” “Perfect!” Five pairs of eyes stared at him. “And you have to bring me my guitar”, Nick added. “And the amp. Should be still in the stadium.” “Alright, then. Last to appear on stage is a rainbow-shitting Wellie!”

And off they went, seemingly racing to the place. Nick was baffled by them, how happy they acted. They made fun of Wellies, but they played just like them. Was it his music that did this to them? Was he like Joy? Or did he just attract the happiest people here? What did the others think of him then? Nick concluded that he had to ask more questions. He drank his tea until they came back and handed him the things. “You guys make for good roadies”, Nick said plucking the strings. “I'd rather be that than the cook's assistant...”, someone complained. “If you wanna patrol at night just say it”, another one snapped. They started to banter again, but Nick interrupted them. “Hey, lads, you wanna hear me or not?” He made them stare at him again.

Taking in their excitement, Nick decided to spare questions for later and began to play. He began with a faster song, like the opener that made them bounce on the balls of their feet. He went on calmer, than faster again, playing his audience as if they were puppets on strings. When he looked up, he noticed that the group was becoming bigger. He summoned more of his fans and felt better and better. He went on until suddenly a ruckus aroused in the crowd. People seemed to be pushed away, accompanied by loud cussing. Then Howard appeared in front of his cell, his face red. “Get out of here! The party is over!”, he shouted at Nick's audience.

“Hey, don't blame them! We had fun!” “Yeah, great. You think this is a joke? Get back to bed!” Now this really felt like Virgil. Nick fell back onto his bed and Howard handed him a small bottle. “Drink this.” Nick did so and grimaced. The antidote tasted even bitterer. “Ah...Why can't this taste good?”, he muttered his protest. “So you won't take it for prune juice...”, Howard muttered back and actually pulled the blanket over him. “It's making you tired, so just sleep. Don't worry about upcoming shows, you proved your worth and they'll leave you alone until you feel better...Won't they?”, he spat at the remaining Headboys who were still watching. They hastily retreated. Nick didn't notice what happened afterwards, because his eyes fell shut.

When he woke up, he still felt a little dizzy, but the pain in his throat was gone. He was so happy about this that he just lay in his bed and enjoyed the peace. He didn't mind to do nothing now, even though he wished he wasn't still locked in a cell. Didn't he deserve to get out yet? To get his own room with actual walls so nobody would stare at him through the bars? He pulled the blanket over his head and realized right afterwards that he could use his guitar to get attention. To call for Howard and ask him all his questions. Reaching out from under the bed, he grabbed the instrument and pulled it under the blanket. He strummed the strings, humming along until he felt like poking his head back out. It was unfair, he thought. The bed was so comfy and warm, but Nick couldn't be seen hiding under it. He now had to build up an image.

He took a deep breath and began to play again, a calm song that nicely echoed in the hallway. Not a bad sound, he mused. Not bad at all. It didn't take long until the first Headboys showed up. To Nick's relief, Howard was one of them and he opened the cell again. “Get him out! Get him out!”, the others chanted. “Yeah, get me out!”, Nick agreed and stopped playing. Howard closed the cell behind him after walking in. He looked at him with a worried expression. “How are you? You're really ready for the lion's den?” Nick wondered if he meant another show. “Actually, I just wanted to leave this cell. Get a real room? I proved my worth, right? Or do you guys all sleep in cells?” Howard nodded, but he didn't seem to be convinced. “You get a room alright. But are you ready yet? You better stay here if you still cough your lungs out.” “I...I'm okay. Just dizzy....”

“What are you doing? Let him out already!”, a Headboy shouted from outside. “What do you want from me?”, Nick asked him. “Entertainment”, the man answered. “That's what you're here for. Our old bard always played for us after dinner.” “You already had dinner?” “Well, you were sleeping, right? And your watchdog made sure you get your beauty sleep.” “Now that you mention it, I rather eat first.” “I have a better idea. Earn it.” The Headboy pointed at him. “You must've missed my show yesterday.” “We all have pretty bad memories”, the man sneered. “Better get out and refresh them.” “He's sick”, Howard replied. “He sounds fine to me.” Nick vibed the strings of his new guitar. “Alright. I see what I can do.” “Good boy.”

Howard stopped intervening and opened the door for him. Nick stepped out and felt strange at first, but then he saw the excitement grow in the eyes of the men around him. They acted just like fans, rough attitudes aside. Nick played a cheerful tune, just for them. “To be continued”, he said at the end of it and winked. As a result, a Headboy slapped his shoulder. “Come on bard, you've been in that cell long enough...” Nick liked the overall friendly tone.

They brought him into what seemed to be a large common room. It was where the laughter had come from the first time he had walked through this place. The Headboys began to cheer and shout into his direction when they saw him and Nick decided to take the stage immediately. He gave them one of his most ambitious guitar solos, telling a story, right there and now with his guitar alone. The Headboys listened in silence. They stopped whatever they had been doing and stared at Nick who stood in the middle of the room.

Nick was glad it still worked. Whatever bad things he could say about himself, his music hadn't lost it's magic. It was in fact the only discipline he was good at. His sole purpose in life. He failed at everything else, but at least he could weave his tragedy into songs. He played his heart out and when he stopped, the room fell silent.

“Holy shit!”, a Headboy finally shouted and then they fell into roaring applause. Nick playfully bowed and gave them a triumphant smile. Then he played the next song – and actually sang this time and the evening turned into a lighter edition of his show. After a while, the Headboys began to throw in requests and Nick followed. Whenever he caught a glimpse of Howard, he saw the man watch him closely. It didn't make him feel uncomfortable, though. Instead he felt save and he knew he could stop when he needed a rest. The other Headboys sang along or danced, probably depending on how drunk they were. When Nick's throat became hoarse again, he played one last song without lyrics and then gave Howard a look.

The guard understood immediately, clapped his hands together and announced the end of the show. The following hours were a bit chaotic. At first the Headboys shouted for more songs, then they began to involve Nick in a drinking game. He didn't remember how many times he played or if he won. He just woke up in his cell with a throbbing head.

Nick whined loudly and called for Virgil before he noticed a glass on his bed stand. Virgil's special recipe, he thought and gulped it down. It tasted even worse this time. “Ew, Virgil, what did you put in this?”, moaned and pulled the blanket over himself. Whatever it was though, it helped and then Nick realized that it wasn't Virgil who gave him that drink. “Howard, you good soul”, he muttered and crawled out of his bed. He noticed that his guitar was gone, so he crawled to the bars and clutched them. “How – aaah!”, was all he could say before he fell out of his cell. The door was open. Nick cussed quietly and struggled up. Then he noticed that he was free.

He wandered through the hallways with highest curiosity. He found empty cells, locked doors and storage rooms before he passed by the dorms. He poked his nose into them, too. They looked actually comfy, but they'd be way too crowded for his taste. He'd rather pretty up that cell for himself than sharing a bedroom. However, seeing beds standing close to each other made his heart feel heavy. Two mattresses in front of a furnace... But Nick eagerly shook his head. Not now.

His mood rose again when he found the shower room. He didn't ponder for long. The hot water felt so very satisfying. He also brushed his hair, made himself presentable again. If he wanted to be their new star, he needed to look like one as well. Assuming that his guitar was still in the common room, he braced himself and went there.

#we happy few #you always meet twice #whf #wehappyfew #nick x morrie #nickxmorrie #nick lightbearer #nicklightbearer #whfnicklightbearer #whfnick #whf nick #morriememento #morrie memento #whfmorrie #whf morrie #garden district #the garden district #gardendistrict

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sea-side-scribbles · 1 year

Text

Fanfiction: You Always Meet Twice

Link to ao3

Chapter 51 (FINAL)

The concert was a success. As the location, the Headboys had chosen a park around a train station and it was perfect: big enough to hold the many Wastrels that Nick's voice allured. And they could use the equipment from the train station to amplify his sound. During the concert, Nick almost forgot that he was in the Garden. It didn't matter. He had a stage, his fans were there, the Headboys worked as his his security...all was well. Unless...

When the show was over and the Headboys made everyone leave, Nick's eyes wandered over the crowd for one last time. The person he looked for wasn't there. It meant that they were too far apart from each other or that Morrie didn't care anymore None of these options satisfied him. He half-heartedly smiled and waved at the remaining Headboys who cheered for him.

Back in the Headquarters, he learned that he had truly become their Nick Lightbearer. No matter if all of them believed him or not, they didn't show any doubts. They stopped asking for his real name or his real life and everyone seemed to accept that they had Nick Lightbearer as one of their own. They even seemed to be proud of it.

The new outfit they had given him for the show appeared to be another concession. It's cloth was rougher than his old fancy rags, but he loved it anyway. It was less shredded since the Headboys didn't have to comply to the other Wastrel's rules. Also, they made him stand out by giving him all the pieces of red and blue cloth they could find. Nick truly felt appreciated.

But that wasn't all. Only a few days after the show, he was finally allowed to walk around freely outside. He could visit the guards' posts to chat or to entertain them with music. As long as he played for them at their meals and in the evening often enough, they didn't mind him having some artistic freedom with his schedule.

It didn't take long until the Wastrels recognised him. Those who had been on his show must've spread the news quickly. Also, he wasn't hard to notice with his glaring red outfit and his purple guitar.

In the beginning, his fame wasn't only an advantage. Some Wastrels rather envied him and tried to free him from his fancy possessions. In these cases, Nick had learned that running away was the best option. He ran faster than all of them and had no trouble escaping. It just disappointed him that people treated him this way instead of being happy about seeing him. If possible, he ran to a nearby Headboy post, because that would scare away his pursuers immediately. Like this, the Wastrels learned two things: first, they couldn't catch Nick anyway and second, he was protected by Headboys. As a consequence, attacks on Nick became very rare.

He became the Garden's Nick Lightbearer as well. Some Wastrels assumed that the real Nick was still in town, others believed that he was himself. But for the first time, Nick was optimistic that he could convince all of them eventually.

One night, when he was back in his rather modest bedroom, he recalled everything that had happened to him so far. The image of the Garden had changed drastically, from dangerous to magical to almost exactly like the town. Just with less fancy outfits. But he had met so many smiling Wastrels that he could barely believe that they were starving.

After all, they didn't run around mindlessly like he had done it. They didn't get lost and froze somewhere in a bush of flowers. They had their homes and their families and seemed to be fine, at least on this holm. He concluded that life was plainer in the Garden, but not hopeless. And he was sure to sneak out some gifts for the Wastrels now and then as a redeeming measure. The Headboy's kitchen was full of food they looted from who knew where. It didn't hurt to redirect some of the stuff.

Nick could make peace with his new reality and live happily ever after. But still, there was that one thing nagging at him. Wherever he went, he never saw the face he longed to see. It looked like he had to accept that they would never meet again.

He shied away from running out into the open without any directions. Morrie had warned him about it. He knew from the Headboys that his open air show had taken place in Eel Pie Holm, but it had looked nothing like it. To his questions, the Headboys had answered that Eel Pie Holm was massive. And when he had asked about the village and the coast he knew, they had said this could be anywhere. So far, Nick had visited two villages and none of them had been the one he visited with Morrie, so he must've been miles away from him. Nick barely slept that night, trying to make up a solution, but he found none.

After another day of dwelling, he rested under a tree when the night fell. He didn't hurry to get inside the Headquarters since he was close to the building and felt save. It was something else that made his stomach cramp. “Oh, Morrie...where are you?” The words faded into the darkness, unheard. A pink glow in the distance reminded him of their beautiful night together. He closed his eyes and wished he was back there. As if he could wake up from a bad dream and find himself back in Morrie's arms. The night was cold, but he stayed outside as if Morrie would come by, summoned by the glowing flowers.

Instead it was Nick who left his spot to walk over to them. Their sweet scent eased his pain a little and he rested between the bushes, closed his eyes and dreamed away. One time, when he opened his eyes again, he noticed the mushrooms that grew next to one of the sparkly bushes. They were pretty as well, red and blue and emitting some sparkling particles that Nick hadn't seen before. He now realized the chance. The mushrooms could open his eyes. They helped him before. And if the Garden's god was still watching him...

So Nick plucked a mushroom and bit into it. Immediately, his eyes opened to the other dimension. The night began to shine in rainbow colours and he felt like he was floating towards it. Suddenly, a light appeared in front of him and blinded him. Nick ducked at first, arms up to protect him. Then he carefully cast a glance at it, realizing that it was friendly. “...holy Yam? Did you come back to me?” “I am always here”, it said and all it's voices warmed him from inside. He felt new hope growing, like the pretty sparks in the night.

“Please, show me the way home! I...I'm lost!”, he begged to the Yam, speaking with multiple voices himself. “You have come a long way, Norbert.” “Yeah, but I have to go back...” “If this is truly what you wish for, follow my light.” “Really? Thank you, oh my Yam...” The God dissolved into multiple tiny sparks, floated over him for a second and then started to fly into a direction. Nick quickly darted after it, matching it's speed with ease. He felt like flying himself while his footsteps echoed over the land. He was free. Nothing could harm him.

Guided by the God, he travelled through the mystical Garden. The night was pretty and full of wonders, like he had always imagined. They went further than he ever had on this Holm, but he didn't mind. All the time, he was flying and he never grew tired of it. Houses and forests passed by and he didn't really pay attention to them. All he could think of was to lie in Morrie's arms again. When the night came to it's end, Nick felt that their journey was about to finish as well. The rainbow colours faded and the sounds became quieter and number again. The light, however, was still there to help him and his body refused to grow tired.

The light slowed down when they approached a village. Nick didn't see the road because they walked behind the houses, passing by ruined backyards in different conditions. His heart began to pound because he hoped that this was the one village he knew. The light seemed to confirm it because it stopped in one of the backyards. “Do I find the way from here?”, Nick asked it quietly, careful not to wake up the Wastrels inside the house. “You are where you want to be”, the light answered, it's voice fading. Nick furrowed his brows, not sure if he heard it right. “Morrie is here? Really?” “Choose your next steps wisely, Norbert.” “Huh?” The light didn't explain. It disappeared, dissolving into sparks one more time. Nick was alone again, standing in a backyard he had never seen before.

What would Morrie do in here?, he wondered. Look for treasures?, he answered himself. Yeah, that's possible. Nick crouched and cautiously neared the back door. There was a springtrap that he could peek through. Inside, he found the usual interior. Wooden floor, blue patterned wallpapers, a furnace, some crooked paintings on the wall, little furniture... Barely convinced, Nick climbed over the springtrap and made a few steps into the house. It was uncomfortably quiet. Nick had to trust the Yam not to lead him into a trap. Why should it, right?

He sneaked through the ground floor where he found a smaller side room that had a big dresser and an armchair with bleached out red pads. It actually looked comfortable. Still, Morrie wasn't in it. Nick turned around and walked back into the bigger room with the staircase. He had two options: sneak through the house like a burglar or call out for Morrie. And as much as he wished to call, he still wasn't sure if Morrie was really here or if he'd alert a bunch of pissed off Wastrels.

So he sneaked up the stairs as quietly as possible. It was when he noticed that he had been walking the entire time with his new shoes. He almost slapped his forehead. A few days back in civilisation and he already forgot everything! Silently, he took off his shoes and placed them at the foot of the stairs.

Much quieter, he climbed into the first floor. This one was more of a mess. Overgrown with ivy, grass and flowers on the floor, it looked more like an indoor garden. A giant hole in the wall allowed him to look at the village, perhaps have a chat with his neighbour. It wasn't a bad view, but Nick was afraid someone might spot him. He hurried into a narrow corridor, hoping that he would be safer there. A yell from behind him told him otherwise.

“You!” Nick shrieked, pressed his back against the wall and stared with widened eyes at the man who towered above him. He had a cricket bat in his hand and didn't look friendly. “There's nothing to get here for the likes of you! Get out!”, he snapped, the familiar voice was all rough and cold. “Morrie...” Nick couldn't help but smile. “Morrie, you're really here...” The other man frowned. “What do you mean? Of course I'm...” Then his expression froze, realizing. “How...? Who gave me away? Talk!”, he shouted and pressed the bat against his chest. “No one!”, Nick rasped. “No one told me anything!” “Bullshit! You know that I live here, so who told you? Spit it out!” “Uh...” This wasn't how he had imagined their reunion. Nick struggled to find an explanation that would make sense to Morrie.

“You would lose this fight, Nick! Don't think I'd spare you! You deserve the same treatment as all your other 'friends'!” “...the Yam...”, Nick pressed out. “...the Yam told me!” Morrie furrowed his brows. “Yeah, call me crazy or whatever! I called out to the God again and a light guided me here! I thought for a moment that it was kidding me...” He tried to laugh but it came out pathetic. Morrie's anger faded and he began to look rather desperate, the way he wiped his eyes and blinked rapidly. The bat sunk to the ground.

“No, no, this is too much! I can't...Why are you doing this to me?”, he stuttered, suddenly much quieter. Nick immediately felt sorry for him. Cautiously, he straightened himself again, leaning against the wall. “I wanted to see you again...”, he said just as quietly. “Why? To show me what you did? To show me that all doors open for you even in the Garden, that everything I told you is wrong because no rules apply to you anywhere?” “I had a lot of help”, Nick protested. “Yeah, sure!” Morrie snorted. “You always find an idiot to help you. You never have to do a damn thing by yourself!”

“I did a lot by myself! I had my own open air show just a few days ago! In the Garden!” “Yeah, and I'm sure your new Headboy friends love you for it! How else would they part so many poor Wastrels from their precious belongings? You monster! How many offerings do you need until your finally sated? When will you ever stop calling yourself a God? Did you forget everything I told you?” Nick fell quiet for a moment. “I didn't know they did that...”, he whispered with a trace of shame in his voice. “I bet you didn't care anyway! You only thought of yourself!” Nick searched Morrie's eyes. The man's features were so cold. “I hoped you'd find me if I made enough noise...” Morrie grimaced. “And why would I go there?” The words felt like a kick in the stomach. Nick slouched his shoulders. “I...I thought...I dunno...It was my only chance...” He sniffed.

For a while, there was nothing to hear but Nick's quiet sniffing. Morrie silenced and the tension became unbearable. Nick was frozen and he waited, hoping that if he didn't make any fast movements, Morrie wouldn't dart at him. After a long while, the other man rasped: “I was there.” Nick lifted his head to give Morrie a surprised glance. “Oh, Morrie...”, he sighed. “I...I'm sorry I didn't see you...” “I...left early.” “Oh...You didn't like it...” He sobbed and wiped his eyes. Morrie barely moved, but his eyes shimmered wet. “Why do you care if I like it?” Nick hugged himself, shaking. “You know...I hoped you would be proud of me...Because I survived and...made something of myself...But you hate what I'm doing...I'm sorry...” His voice failed.

Morrie was still frozen on the spot, but his eyes scanned Nick up and down. “Me? Proud of you? You're the Golden God, I am just a bratty newcomer! I don't see why anything I do matters!” “Because you're the only person in the world that was honest to me!”, Nick blurted out and then openly wept. Morrie's answer came slowly and quiet. “So...you remember now?” Nick shook his head. “I don't remember shit, but I believe you! All you did was helping me! You had no reason to be so friendly! That's just who you are!” The other man fell back the wall and his hand ran helplessly over his face. The cricket bat was forgotten.

“What do you want me to do now?” “Let me go home”, Nick sobbed. “But...your home is with the Headboys now...” “No! No! This can't be the end of us! Is there nothing left that you like about me?” The rockstar's eyes were begging. “I...” “I was wrong about you! I regret everything!” Nick fell on his knees again and this time, Morrie didn't feel like mocking him. However, the he was paralysed and could only watch.

Nick Lightbearer knelt in front of him, as pretty as he was, with clean hair and clothes. Alive and well. Even more than just 'well'. He was a star again. All by his own making.

“Please, Morrie...” The whimper gave him goosebumps. Made him tremble. He braced up, approached the crying man and lay his hands on his head. It felt good. Slowly, he allowed himself to pet his hair. Then he closed his eyes and let the moment in. There was no anger, no grudge. He was just happy that Nick was here. When he felt that the rockstar tried to lift his head to look at him, he loosened his grip. Their eyes met. Drowning in green, Morrie' senses flared up and he knelt down to kiss Nick. The other man sucked in the air, surprised, then he welcomed him eagerly. They didn't let go for a long time.

“My star...”, Morrie whispered when they parted. “My love...”, Nick returned. Suddenly, a voice from downstairs interrupted them: “Morrie? Morrie, are you alright?” “Uh...yeah!”, Morrie yelled back while hugging Nick who cast him a curious glance. “We heard shouting! And there's a pair of shoes by your stairs!” “Uh...” Morrie gave Nick a look. The rockstar answered with a sheepish grin and shrugged. “They're mine!”, Morrie decided to say. “No worries, I'm okay!” “Are you sure?” “Yep!” “Alright then!” The voice fell quiet and both men began to chuckle hysterically.

“Pff, shoes. You're such a snob...”, Morrie mocked him. “Hey! Can't help if I have a reputation to lose!” Nick pointed downstairs. “Your neighbours?” “Yeah.” “They're nice.” “Yeah, a little nosey, but lovely.” “So...Is this really your new home?” “I...I don't know yet...”, Morrie admitted. “So many things happened and I...I just wanted to see something else I guess...” “Well, it looks comfy”, Nick agreed. “The room downstairs...” “Oh, that...It gets much better upstairs...” “Even better?” “Oh, Nick...” Morrie just had to chuckle again and ruffled the rockstar's hair. “Hey!”, Nick play-protested, but chuckled as well. The Wastrel got up and pointed into the corridor. “Er...if you like to see it...”

Nick didn't think twice and followed Morrie into the next room. It looked comfy already, a room with two beds in it, it's own furnace, a carpet, a bookshelf, an armchair, a chest, two dressers and even a few paintings. “Wow! This is an upgrade!” Morrie flashed a smile. “Wait for it”, he said mysteriously and climbed onto a dresser. “What are you doing?” “Er...sadly, this floor has no stairs, so we have to climb up here. But you should make it.” Morrie reached the attic through a hole in the floor and then held out his hand for Nick.

Soon, they stood in the attic and had a look at the gravely damaged roof. It gave them a good view over the village. Also, the attic was decorated by a lot of plants, ivy and flowers that made it look like another tiny garden within the house. There was another bed, a table and even a couch placed in front of the gaping hole in the roof, so that someone could sit there and enjoy the view. On the other side, there was a campfire and the embers were still glowing, emitting a pleasant warmth.

“Holy shit...You hit the jackpot with this!” “Ah...” Morrie was a flattered and scratched his neck. “It has it's benefits...” “Damn right it has!”, Nick blurted out. Then he added quieter: “Will you sit with me?” Morrie understood and they cuddled together on the couch. Morrie put his blanket over them. “Oh, you still have this”, Nick said happily. “Sure, it's...practical.” The rockstar chuckled adorably and Morrie had to place a kiss on his cheek. Nick quickly returned it and they got entangled once again.

Later that day, when they were exhausted and relaxed on the bed, Morrie wrapped his arms around Nick, hoping he could hold him forever from now on. The rockstar gave him a quiet purr and he kissed Morrie's hands. “I'm sorry...”, the Wastel suddenly whispered. “For...kicking you out...” “You don't have to be”, Nick answered quickly, even though the topic made a cold shiver run down his spine. His tension dropped when he felt Morrie shake and press his face against his back. “Please, stay...”, the man sobbed “Yes, Morrie, I stay.” Nick said firmly. He didn't have to think twice to answer that. The other man just sobbed more and squeezed Nick, so the rockstar carefully turned around and began to kiss every spot on his face. “I stay.” Morrie smiled while he cried.

“And don't be an arse”, he added chuckling. “I'll try...Oh, Morrie, I'll do anything!”, Nick begged. Morrie now cupped the rockstar's face and looked him deeply in the eyes. “I forgive you...”, he said. “You changed. You are a better person.” “I hope so...”, Nick sighed, overwhelmed with emotion. “We'll be fine”, Morrie promised. Nick drowned in his brown eyes. “Yeah...we'll be fine...” They spent the whole day on the attic and Morrie didn't regret a second.

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sea-side-scribbles · 1 year

Text

Fanfiction: You Always Meet Twice

Link to ao3

Chapter 50

Morrie needed hours to collect the supplies for the Plague Doctor. All the time, he was very impatient and his mind tortured him with images of Nick being hurt or in any other kind of danger. He looked out for the clumsy rockstar, hoping that a lucky coincidence would bring them together again without the doctor's help. But of course, luck wasn't on Morrie's side.

He had to spend another night in Barrow Holm, not knowing if Nick was alright. Nick was not in the village and Morrie still wondered why not.

He tried to recall what the doctor's expression had looked like when he had spoken of Nick. But the damn glasses and the mask had hidden most of it. Morrie couldn't tell if Nick was dead or alive. Oh, dear. He told himself to hope for the best. He had no other choice anyway.

Somehow, he made it through the night without much sleep. He kept waking up from short naps and looking outside to see if the sun was rising. After an eternity of waiting, the morning finally came. Then Morrie hurried out of the house – to find more supplies because he hadn't found all of them the first day.

It was already afternoon when he returned to the doctor, bathed in sweat and angry. It appeared to him that this creepy giant did this on purpose, making him search for the rarest plants in the Garden, because he looked so desperate. An easy victim.

Without knocking, he rushed into his office and slapped the supplies on the overly fancy table. “There, I got what you wanted! Now tell me where Nick is!”, he spat at the man. The doctor took his time glancing at him and the loot before he granted him an answer: “Oh, that looks like a good job indeed.” He spread the plants over the desk to look at them. “Ah, I knew I could count on you. If you ever happen to look for a job...” “I don't have time for this! Where is Nick?” The doctor tutted. “So eager to find your friend that you even forget your manners.” “Is he alright?” The doctor's dawdling began to give Morrie hope. “Is he here?” He looked around as if he could find him in a corner of the room.

“No, sadly I didn't have the pleasure yet”, the eerie man answered. “Not personally, I mean.” Morrie had no idea what he meant, but he gathered more hope. “So you've heard of him?” The doctor again took his time. He rummaged in one of his drawers. “Notes, notes...I'm not a note person. I never remember where I put them...Ah, there.” He pulled out a thin sheet of paper and placed it in front of Morrie. The Wastrel furrowed his brows. “A map?” “Indeed. The Garden loves maps, yes?”, the doctor said with an even childish grin. “You should be capable of reading it.”

Morrie lifted up the paper. It showed Barrow Holm and Eel Pie Holm. It looked like the drawn path led to one of the subway stations. “Why don't you just tell me where he is?” “But I did. Did I not?” The doctor now gave him an innocent look. He made Morrie wonder why he expected an answer that made sense, in a room which fumes stung in his nose. He needed to get out before he would faint and a readable map was better than nothing.

So he mumbled a few words of thanks and goodbye, shoved the map in his pocket and left, slower than he had come in, with unsure steps. He thought that this room got darker and fuzzier every time he visited it. Outside the building, he leaned against the wall to catch a breath, enjoying the cool, fresh air. When his head was clear again, he took another look at the map. It was really one of the train stations, the closest to Barrow Holm.

That puzzled Morrie. Weren't the train stations occupied by Headboys? Was this a trap? Or perhaps this one was free and Nick found shelter there. Why not? He had no choice but to try it out, so he hurried to Eel Pie Holm and followed the road to the station. It didn't appear on the horizon yet when Morrie heard a strange sound from afar.

Immediately, he thought of the war, but that was ridiculous, right? The Germans wouldn't just come back like that, right? No, there were worse things on this island! Their own Executive Committee! What the hell was going on? He had to get Nick!

The closer he came, however, the better he could recognize the sound and a weight was lifted from his chest. Just a fucking speaker with a Lightbearer record playing! Or a gramophone. Didn't matter. That would mean he was close, right? Or it played in another building?

Morrie became puzzled again. There was no other building that could emit the sound. A tiny house appeared once, but he passed it and the sound just became louder. Why would a speaker or a gramophone even be so loud?

Also, Morrie soon noticed that he wasn't alone anymore. Other Wastrels walked the road, but not for their usual scavenging. They also heard the noise and wanted to see what was happening. “Is that...Nick Lightbearer?”, a woman asked, voice dripping with doubt. Her eyes although were wide with excitement. Morrie's heart began to pound at that simple notion. He had figured that it was Nick's song, but she had opened his eyes. It wasn't a record! But that couldn't be. How?

Within the blink of an eye, Morrie stopped being an individual. He became one with the flock of Wastrels that followed the sound, like moths would follow the light. He didn't think anymore. Didn't know what to think. His heart was about to burst out of his chest. This was a dream. Had to be. He had finally become crazy, reliving the happiest memories of his life as if he was there again. For a moment, his heart filled with sadness because he would never meet the real Nick again since he was now lost and he wished he wouldn't have said all these awful things to him. But he couldn't wake up. He would follow the crowd, deeper into the dream world, until he'd see his beloved idol again, younger and happier and unscathed by reality.

The Wastrels flooded the road, entered a little hamlet and finally gathered around the train station. Suddenly, the flood came to a halt. It split up and confused people rounded the place. Morrie peeked through a high metal fence. This train station was surrounded by a large park. All he could see from his spot was a failed missile that stuck tail up in a pond. He followed the fence, hoping that it would open up somewhere.

“Hey, you, get away from there!”, an voice suddenly snarled at him and ripped him out of his trance. His eyes caught black leather clothes and a truncheon directed at him. A Headboy? In his dream? Morrie eyed him in confusion, then he pressed his eyes shut. This man would disappear if he thought about it hard enough, right? He wanted no filthy Headboys in his beautiful dream! But the annoying man was persistent.

“Hey, hey, no need to cry”, he said. “You get in for an offering.” Morrie ripped his eyes open. “An offering? For Nick?” “Yeah, you love your Golden God, do you? But you have to give something back to him if you want to enjoy his musical genius.” The Headboy's sneer felt very wrong. “This...this isn't the real Nick! It can't be! This is a scam! You prey on our dreams again!” The man laughed. “But you came here anyway. Just listen to that voice.” He took in a breath. “There's only one man in the world with that voice.”

Morrie clung to the fence and closed his eyes again. In his mind he saw Nick dance and the voice he heard matched the image perfectly. It gave him goosebumps all over his body. The same voice he had heard every day, the man he had shouted at. He needed to see him again! He patted down his jacket until he remembered he had gathered some berries earlier and handed them out to the Headboy. “That wasn't so hard, was it? Now enjoy the show.” Morrie walked though the gate that was guarded by more Headboys.

Actually, the amount of Headboys in the park overwhelmed him. It definitely looked like they ruled the place. Morrie felt less and less like dreaming and more an more like falling for a trap. He considered running away for a second, but the stage was close. He only had to round a corner to see Nick. To dive back into the dream world. Morrie jumped at the chance. When his glance fell onto the stage, the sight took his breath away.

There was Nick in person. The real one. He could tell it by his fluid movements, the floating hair, his beautiful face... But then he saw his outfit and suddenly the world lost all it's colours. It was a new outfit, bright red, very fitting his iconic style. At first sight, Morrie had taken it for the fancy rags he had been wearing in town. But this was a different style. More colourful than it's more common counterparts, but still recognisable. The rough cloth, the various patches, the cut. The buttons. The symbols on his guitar. Morre looked around, watched the Headboy's control the crowd, collecting offerings and he understood. He was one of them. Morrie's stomach turned. His desperate yell was unheard.

He fell on his knees, choking, crouching behind a tree. His stomach tried to empty itself but he had nothing to bring up. After all his warnings! How did this happen? Was he such a horrible teacher? How Nick he go from helpless to...the Garden's greatest pest in a few days? Then Morrie realized the bitter truth.

Because Nick was like them. They were what he needed. They gave him the luxury and the power to live the life he preferred. He didn't mind pressing the poor Wastrels for offerings. He had always lived like this, exploiting his fans and his band. He had needed only a few days alone to reconnect with the likes of him. Morrie had forced him to be a better person, but that drama was over. Because of Morrie's stupid good heart, he gave the Garden this monster. Nick Lightbearer, who would haunt him now forever. Not even the Garden was save anymore.

Morrie clutched the tree to stand up. He had to get out of here. What had been a beautiful song was now nothing but noise ringing in his ears. He stumbled out of the park, bumping into other Wastrels that flooded inside. He panicked, fearing they might crush him before he got out. Even outside the park he had to struggle his way through the masses. When he finally broke through and had the empty road ahead of him, he abandoned all caution and started to run.

Nobody took notice of him anyway. The Wastrels focused on the source of the noise. He passed by zombies that stumbled out of their houses, staring into the distance. The dream had become a nightmare. He ran until he was out of breath and then still dragged himself along the road. Only after being alone for a while he began to feel a little better. Especially when he recognised the landscape. He knew he would be home soon. All he could think of was the warmth and safety of his house. He just stopped when he saw a bush of Rowan Berries and remembered that he didn't have a meal yet.

It was getting dark when Morrie finally approached his home, tired and thirsty. He equipped himself with a pointy stick he found outside, because after so many days, you couldn't know... Luckily, his house was empty and everything was still in place. He drank an entire canteen and then crawled under his blanket on the bed. But when his body was sated, his heart began to ache and he felt horrible.

He had made a fool out of himself, again. And Nick would always be somewhere out there now. He could run into him anytime he went into a village. He was crowded by fans again. He didn't miss him. And why should he? He believed that Morrie was a traitor and he would always stick to this opinion. Nobody would tell him otherwise. Morrie now noticed the tiny spark of hope that he had carried with him in the past days. He had hoped that Nick would see his mistake, come back to him, and somehow make up to him. How stupid he was! He would never mean anything to Nick Lightbearer!

He didn't know if he slept that night. His tears wouldn't stop flowing and his mind wouldn't stop spinning. The next day was hard. Despite his exhaustion, he had to go gather supplies. And to move on, somehow. He didn't touch the stuff in Nick's chest. He couldn't get close to it. He just tried to forget that it was there. Not that it had a meaning for Nick anyway. Nothing that he gave Nick had a meaning.

He thought about Robert and his friends who were probably still trying to help him. He didn't want to talk to anyone about Nick, but he knew he had to tell the Wastrel that the search was over. Or else they could even bring Nick back to him, in case the rockstar couldn't find the way on his own. That thought made Morrie's neck hair stand on end. But he was in no condition to walk to the village, so he had to wait another day.

This night, his mind granted him some sleep. In the morning, his pain had become number, so he felt that he could talk about Nick without having a breakdown. On the way to the village, he listened carefully for any strange noise. He jumped once and then noticed it was only the record playing in the candy house. He stayed far away from the Headboys at the water pump, fearing to see a familiar face among them. When he met Robert in his house, he told him that he could stop looking out for Nick.

“You found him?”, the man blurted out happily. Morrie didn't return his happiness and avoided his glance. “I guess so...” The man's smile fell immediately. “Is something wrong? Do you need help?” “Er...” Morrie shook his head. “No, he's fine. He's doing great actually. Don't need to worry about him...” Robert furrowed his brows. “And...how are you?” Morrie grimaced. “I don't want to talk about it...I'll be fine, too...” Then he remembered something. “Hey, I didn't mean to moan at you. I still owe you two meals and I brought this to repay you.” He pulled out two cans of meat from his purse. Robert's eyes widened at the treasure. “You don't have to do this...If you're not okay...I have plenty.” “Me too”, Morrie insisted. “Come on, take it. You did so much for me.” “It was nothing, really.” But Morrie pressed the cans into Roberts arms and the man finally accepted them.

“Do you need a rest? My spare bed is always there for you.” Morrie smiled, but shook his head again. “I'm sorry, I need to be alone for a while. Thank you for everything.” “You sure you don't need help? I don't feel alright letting you go like that”, the other man insisted. “I'm fine, believe me. I just have to get over...losing a friend...” Robert opened his mouth to answer, but Morrie quickly added: “No, he's okay, really, he's doing great...but without me...I guess I'm single again... Yay...Guess I'll celebrate my new freedom with lots of drinks...but sadly they're gonna be just water...the Garden sucks, man.” The last words just poured out of him.

Robert's look was full of empathy. “I'm so sorry....He...he looked so happy around you. Are you sure...?” “Yes, I've seen him!”, Morrie interrupted him. “Did you talk to him?” “Look, this is the kind of conversation I wanted to avoid!”, Morrie blurted out. “I didn't want to stay in your debt, but I don't need anyone to tell me I'm crazy! I'll get back to my lonely life now.” He turned around to leave. “But..wait! Let me help you!” “I don't need your help!” “Hey!” Robert darted after him and grabbed his shoulder. “I believe you, but...Don't hurt yourself.” He gave him a meaningful look. Morrie knew what he meant. He wouldn't be the first to...hurt himself. It was rather common in the Garden. But it wasn't very common to care.

“No. I'm not that kind of a person. I'm a good Christian, I guess. I endure or whatever.” Morrie helplessly waved his hands in the air. He said the truth, but he didn't feel very special about it. “If you feel like talking or just...If you don't want to be alone, please come back. I don't want to lose you, too”, Robert insisted and his empathy moved Morrie. “Thank you.” He now looked at him and his look had become more begging, as if that man could take his pain away.

“You don't have to life in that lonely place forever, you know? There's plenty of space in the village and me and my friends would be there.” Morrie paused, letting the news sink in. “I...keep that in mind.”

He really pondered on it when he went home. He had fled to this lonely place after leaving Barrow Holm, but perhaps it was time for a another change. His house held a lot of bad memories.

#you always meet twice #we happy few #wehappyfew #whf #nick lightbearer #morrie memento #nick x morrie #nickxmorrie #whf morrie #morriememento #whfmorrie #nicklightbearer #whfnick #whf nick #gardendistrict #garden district #the garden district

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sea-side-scribbles · 1 year

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Fanfiction: You Always Meet Twice

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Chapter 49

The rest of the day went rather well for Nick. He was actually surprised by how good it went, considering what Morrie had told him about the Headboys. Even though he trusted Howard and he enjoyed the other Headboys' comments on his show, he had still been worried about how they would treat him. But it appeared that he had made a positive impression on them.

Nick even got a room for himself. It was the same room the former bard had used, close to the stage and the equipment. It was a very practical arrangement and Nick spent a lot of time trying out the instruments. The entire day, nobody bothered him.

They also didn't shout his awful real name again and Nick was very glad about that. In the night, he lay awake for a long time, wondering why they did that to him. And recalling how they had stared at him... He wondered why they even knew his real name. What stupid paparazzi found that out? Then it occurred to him that it could be his own fault. A simple Joy overdose would've been enough to reveal the name in an interview. This fact didn't help his mood either.

Eventually, he fell into a restless sleep with confusing dreams. He was surrounded by screaming fans that knew all of his embarrassing secrets. Nick tossed and turned and suddenly woke up when a Headboy walked into his room.

Letting out a shriek, he crawled under his blanket. “Ah, paparazzi! Virgil, help!” “Uh, Nick? Are you okay?”, asked a confused voice. Nick didn't realize the tone. “No, I'm not okay! Get out of my house!”, he yelled at the top of his lungs. “You're not in your house...” The other man came closer and tugged at the blanket. “Wake up, Nick! You're a Headboy now, remember? You're not a rockstar anymore. Well, something like a rockstar, but...” Nick just shrieked again and pulled at the blanket too, trying to keep it above his head. But the other man pulled it away. Now revealed, Nick shielded his head with his arms.

“What's wrong with you people?”, he shouted. “Can't you visit a show to see me or something? Do you have to take the piss like that? For fuck's sake, where are you, Virgil?” The Headboy rolled his eyes, then he grabbed Nick by the shoulders and shook him. “Wake up, man! I'm not a paparazzi! You're not in your fancy pad, you're in the Garden District in the Headboy Headquarters and you're about to miss breakfast because you're being stupid!” Nick lowered his arms a little. “Breakfast?”, he said quieter. “Yeah. It already started and I'm wasting my time with you here.” Now Nick really faced the other man and noticed his black leather clothes and the helmet. Soon after, he figured his mistake.

“Why didn't you tell me earlier?”, he shouted again, hiding his shame behind anger. “I tried!” The Headboy gave him a look. “You really are stuck in the past.” “I'm not! I just...I...” Nick wiped his hair out of his face while he searched for words. Then he gave up. “Maybe I am...But you would be stuck there, too if you had my past.” The Headboy was quiet for a moment. He seemed to pity Nick, or just find him crazy. Nick hoped for the first option.

“It's okay”, the man finally said with a comforting tone. “Let's go.” Nick gladly followed him out of the room, but then they stopped. “Don't you need your guitar?”, the Headboy asked and eyed him. “Oh, uh, I'm not married to this thing. But if you like...sure...” Nick went to fetch it. “You know we're expecting you to play now, like the other bard did.” This made Nick jump. “A show? Now? I just woke up!” “Not a show. Just...play a bit. The hall is so dull without music.” “Uh...and when do I get to eat?” “We leave a meal for you, don't worry.” “I get your leftovers? Are you serious?” “Our old bard wasn't such a princess, and you'll be fine as well.” “Fine, yeah. Close to wishing me dead.” The Headboy only laughed. “Come on. You just escaped death and you already miss it?” Nick grimaced. “That's what I get for being a Downer...”

The other man sighed. “Nick. Chin up. This is the best place to live out here and you already have fans. It's not so different from your old life.” “What do you know about my old life?”, Nick muttered bitterly. “You don't even believe I'm me.” “Well, we're still split over this...It's just a crazy coincidence if it's true.” “Oh, so you're at least giving me a chance?” “Sure...I mean, in the end it doesn't matter, right? You're our Lightbearer anyway.” Nick deflated again. “Whatever, man...”

They entered the dining hall and the cheerful greetings made Nick feel a little better. At least the audience was friendly. He chose a place in a corner to play and the Headboys just minded their business without giving him attention. Nick assumed that he was doing it right, or else they would complain. Still, he didn't quite like this situation, just playing for himself with nobody listening. He preferred the stage. After a while, he managed to distract himself by focusing on his music and pretending that he was vibing alone. He could've been alone after all, it wouldn't have made a difference to him.

As he wandered around in his own mind, he couldn't help visiting the events of the past days. Everything he found and lost. Who he lost. Now his first days in the Garden felt like a dream. A crazy coincidence indeed. Did he really meet Morrie Memento again? A sudden sting in his heart was the answer.

It could've felt like a happy ending. After all his struggles, he found a place where he could play his songs again. But he missed Morrie. That lonely little life in a house for their own with all the time in the world ahead of them... On the verge of tears, Nick regretted bringing up the images. They killed any good vibes this moment could've had.. But he couldn't let them go. He didn't want it to end like this. He wanted to see Morrie again and tell him he was sorry. Tell him he would shut up. Nick hoped that there was a way. He wouldn't be locked in here forever, right? They would let him go outside like the other Headboys? His head spun.

Eventually, he forced himself to calm down again because there was nothing he could do now. He made an inner note to ask someone about it later and he was very impatient for the Headboys to finish their meal. When breakfast was finally over, he made his first attempt to go out by just following some of the Headboys who were heading into this direction. They noticed him and stopped.

“Hey, where are you going?”, one of them asked. “Er, I thought I'd take a stroll, just getting some fresh air. And you?” The man lifted an eyebrow. “You're not a patrol or anything, right?” “No, but...” “Then there's no reason for you to be outside.” “What do you mean? No one can leave other than the patrols?” “It's way too dangerous for the likes of you. You better stay save inside and pluck your strings.” “But...did your old bard never leave the house?” “He did once...”, the Headboy answered.

Unimpressed, Nick put his hands on his hips. “Hey, I lived in the Garden for quite a while. I'm capable.” The man sneered: “Yeah. That's exactly how we found you. In perfectly good shape.” The others laughed at that and Nick felt a sense of shame that he didn't enjoy at all. “That was a completely different situation!”, he shouted over their laughter. “It had nothing to do with my skills!” “Sure.” “I could outrun you all!” He only made them laugh more. “And how far do you think you'd get? You think we're just gonna open the gate for you so you can fuck us over?” “I...That's not what I meant...” Nick shook his head in frustration and spread his arms to plead: “Just a stroll, guys. Really? I could even bring you stuff. Supplies. Anything.”

“That's not your job.” The Headboy was surprised by his offer. “I thought you're Nick Lightbearer. Would he rather run around in the woods instead of dancing on stage?” The others looked confused, too. Nick noticed that he was about to ruin his progress in this matter and it frustrated him even more. “You always think you know me better than myself! And then you're disappointed because I'm nothing like you imagine in your tiny brains! Yeah, I love to sing and dance for you, but I also enjoy my freedom to go where the fuck I please, so get the fuck out of the way!” He tried to walk past them but the group stopped him quickly. However, they didn't seem hostile.

“Whoa there, rockstar”, one of them said, “You're here for only three days now. We can't let you run around outside yet. Not outside the gate at least. Just be good for another while and prove yourself...” “Prove myself even more?”, Nick moaned. “Yeah, we know that you're a great musician but we don't know if we can trust you yet.” Mentioning the “great musician” comforted Nick a little, but he slouched his shoulders and sighed: “What do you mean 'not outside the gate'? Am I allowed in your little courtyard?” “Yeah, I suppose that's fine.” The man shrugged and the others agreed. “How generous of you.”

With that settled, Nick followed the group into the yard and then watched them leave. With his feet in the grass in the wind in his hair, he noticed how much he missed the Garden. The outside world had always been the whole Garden for him. Just a wide, borderless landscape. It had been very pleasant to be warm and clean for a change, but for now, he had enough of the narrow corridors and dim halls. His eyes wandered along the high fence around the yard and he craved to get out, to see the horizon again. And to visit a certain Wastrel who was somewhere out there, far away.

He wondered if Morrie missed him. Nick wished that he did, but he also knew that he didn't. And if he wouldn't come back to Morrie soon, he would probably forget about him. Another unpleasant thought. Nick tried to shake it off while he strolled aimlessly through the yard. People greeted him and he played his role as best as he could. At least he could enjoy some fresh air.

He was soon distracted by a group at the campfire. They had just ended their night shifts and asked him to play their favourite song before they would head to bed. Nick was disappointed that their favourite song was none of his own, but he kept his cool and let them teach him the melody and lyrics. They bawled the song along with him, so it didn't really matter if he got it. Like this, they summoned more Headboys who just joined for fun and they sung a lot of stanzas - some appeared to be improvised - until the song dissolved into cheers and laughter. Nick had the suspicion that this song didn't exist outside the Headboy Headquarters and he made an inner note to learn it.

He received hearty pats on his back that almost made him fall over before the night guards went to bed. Only then he noticed that he was smiling. Looking around, he found that he had made another good impression and everyone seemed to be happier now.

Because he felt like vibing again, he went into a corner between high bushes of yellow flowers and just mindlessly plucked the strings. Sometimes he paused to look at the sky and to smile to himself. He had peace for a while, then his feelings bubbled up again. He couldn't give up. He had to find a way to visit Morrie. How long did he have to stay here and wait until they trusted him? Would Morrie still remember him then? He needed to reach him somehow. Nick racked his brains, brooding in his corner. Then he suddenly shot up.

Quicker than he had assumed earlier, he ran back inside and headed towards the stadium. Luckily, that engineer was there, tinkering about in one of the side rooms. “Hey, Al!” Nick had learned his name was Aleister. “Listen, I have a smashing idea for my new show!” The Headboy emerged from his gear, a wide smile on his face. “I'm all ears.” “I'm thinking of an open air concert!” The man's features froze at that. “Yeah? Uh, I don't know if the yard is a good place for it. A little narrow and full of...stuff. You're better off in here.” Nick's heart sunk again. “You don't have a stage in the Garden?” “We're Headboys, not event managers.” “But...you have all these guarded places outside...I can't imagine none of these work.”

Al furrowed his brows. “How would you prevent summoning the entire district with that show?” “I...I don't know why I shouldn't.” “Ah...There we go. You want to be famous again.” “I want to tell the world that I'm not dead!”, Nick protested. “I don't see why this is a bad thing!” “But we are your world now.” “Yeah, you saved me. I know I owe you a lot, but...Don't you think people will find out anyway? If you let me out, I won't hide and pretend I'm someone else. And your guards will ask me to sing for them anyway, so the Wastrels will hear me. You can't hide me forever.” Al bit his lower lip. “You really are Nick Lightbearer, right?” “Oh, finally someone gets it!”, Nick shouted and threw his arms in the air. “I didn't dare to hope I'd see the day!”

The other man was still pondering. “Well, I can't make that decision alone...We have to talk to the others.” “Well, great. Let's talk then.” “Hmm...”, Al muttered and Nick wished he was more enthusiastic. Still, they went into a corridor, heading towards a direction that would hopefully bring him closer to his next show. And to Morrie.

#we happy few #whf #you always meet twice #nick lightbearer #nicklightbearer #whfnick #whf nick #morrie memento #morriememento #whfmorrie #whf morrie #nickxmorrie #nick x morrie #wehappyfew #whfnicklightbearer #garden district #gardendistrict #the garden district

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sea-side-scribbles · 1 year

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Fanfiction: You Always Meet Twice

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Chapter 48

Morrie travelled to Barrow Holm in the fastest pace he could manage while always looking out for a certain rockstar. Like this, he reached the holm's village in the evening. As soon as he spotted it from afar though, he approached it more carefully. He had no wish to enter it, only the thought of Nick brought him here. He sneaked around the village and kept his distance to it's walls and barricades. He hoped to catch a glimpse at his rockstar, but the surroundings were empty. Chatter and laughter echoed through the alleys of the village, making him feel even less invited to go inside. He comforted himself with the thought that if Nick was in there, he would be safe. He also concluded that he had to check the outside first.

Morrie searched the ruins around the village. He still knew them all since this small holm had been his home for a long time. Because most people were drawn to the village, it was unlikely that someone lived in the ruins. But Morrie had to be sure. Nick could be hurt. Could've climbed something and fallen, broken a leg. He knew how bold the rockstar was. In the end, all houses turned out to be empty and again, Morrie had to convince himself that this was a good thing.

When it became too dark to go on, Morrie went into the third floor of one of the houses and looked at the village through a hole in the wall. The Wastrels closed the gates at night, but there was still light in the church. Morrie caught himself listening for a certain voice. He didn't hear it, but he assumed it was impossible at this distance anyway. Later, he found the first lights move along the roads and scrunched his nose. Headboys on patrol.

Somehow the villagers had achieved an unspoken agreement with them. He couldn't remember them being a problem in Barrow Holm, even though their very headquarters sat close. For some reason, this holm became a refuge for both Wastrels and Headboys. Morrie assumed it was because most people stranded here first.

He idled at his overlook until he accepted that the day was over and he couldn't do anything for Nick now. After choosing one of the three beds and lying onto it, he immediately missed his own. Still, he drifted into a restless sleep with quickly changing, strange dreams. He wandered through an endless landscape, looking for Nick and every time he got closer to a shady figure, something jumped in the way. He was about to climb a rock but tripped and fell. That was when he woke up.

The sun was already rising, but the villagers hadn't started the day yet, so Morrie made himself a fire and ate from the supplies he had brought. He finished them quickly and then he had a lot of time to think about how the meeting would go. Morrie told himself to get straight to the point. He only needed to know where Nick lived now, nothing more. And when he'd finally meet him, he'd hand him all his belongings and leave, knowing that everything was alright. He played the scene in his head multiple times until he finally heard the gates open.

A few Wastrels went outside, either doing something useful or strolling and pondering, lost in their own world. Morrie waited for them to pass before he made his way towards the gate. On the way, his eyes fell on the sign that listed all the rules. It made him muse about the many times he had broken the rule concerning the past. He had been an absolute wreck back then.

Nick had done a better job, right? But wait... he had also tried to talk about the past. And without knowing it, Morrie had taught him the same rule. Because it was true. The past only made trouble. If Nick had been quiet... Morrie shook his head and ripped his gaze away from the sign. Mourning didn't help.

He forced himself to go on, following the street into the village, along the ruins. Some of them were empty, some of them inhabited, but they all looked alike and Morrie wondered how many Wastrels were already watching him approach.

At the end of the road, there was the old marketplace in front of the church. People sat around a fire and seemed to have a moderately good time. When they noticed the visitor, they stared at him. Morrie was most frustrated by the lack of rockstars in this group.

A woman jumped up and ran towards him, scanning him in disbelief. “Morrie! Holy shit! We thought you're a goner! Were have you been?” She stretched and put her hands on his shoulders. “My, you're big and strong now!” Morrie backed away with held up arms. “I...I'm looking for someone...”, he stuttered, overwhelmed by the sudden welcome. “That's it? You came back from the dead, just like that?”, a man shouted. “Where have you been? And why did you leave us? Didn't you hear it's dangerous outside?”, the others added. “Give him a break. He's confused!”, the woman came to help him.

“Uh...”, Morrie tried again. “I just meant to ask...Did someone new come here lately?” “Yeah, actually, two guys. Why? You know them?” “Only one...His name is Nick...” The Wastrels looked at each other and Morrie didn't like their expressions. “Nick who?”, the woman asked. “Er...he didn't say his last name...” Morrie broke out in sweat. He had forgotten how weird he'd came across. “He had brown hair...a red suit...” More suspicious looks followed. “Come on, did you see him or not?”, he shouted at them. “He's crazy”, a man said and waved a hand in front of his face for emphasis. “And I thought he'd make it.”, someone answered, sounding very disappointed. “His past got the better of him.” The group began to lost interest in Morrie.

He didn't give up. “Where are the two new guys?”, he asked the woman. She gave him a pitiful look, bit her lip and answered: “They're living in the house left from the phone booth.” She pointed at the direction. “But no one of them looks like a Nick.” Because Morrie was about to run away, she grabbed his arm to stop him. “Morrie...” “Nancy...”, Morrie muttered. “I'm not crazy, okay? I'm looking for a real person with coincidentally familiar features. And it's urgent!” He ripped himself out of her grip. “He's not here. There's nobody with that name or fitting that description. We would remember him.” Morrie assumed that Nick could've changed his name. Then he realized that he wouldn't. Not him.

“You wouldn't lie to me, right?” “Why would I?” Nancy's wide eyes told the truth. “Why do you think he's here?” “He knows the way...And he was curious about this place and...” Morrie blinked. “Well, if he's here somewhere, there's only one person who would know...” Morrie pressed his eyes shut. “Yeah...I hoped I wouldn't have to...” “He's creepy, yeah...But very helpful.” Morrie straightened himself. “Alright. He's my last chance then.” “I guess this is goodbye again?” “It's better this way.” Morrie quickly turned around and hurried out of the village without looking back. He had no reason to stay. He needed to find Nick.

He knew the way to the damned place and the thought of finding the clumsy rockstar pushed him forward. When he entered the building, he noticed that it was still as inviting as always. What made him think that a bone saw was a great piece of décor? Even if he'd probably, hopefully won't use it. It went great with the other medical instruments, though. Great to make one turn at their heels and run away. The smell didn't help either. But Morrie clenched his teeth and knocked at the door to the office.

“Come in”, said the familiar raspy voice and Morrie went inside. There, the smell got worse. The room was barely illuminated by the barricaded windows. A few orange candles fought the darkness. He had always had a knack for drama.

There was a massive mahogany desk with golden ornaments - a decadent piece of glory old times - and he had crowded it with even more creepy instruments. Morrie didn't want to know their use. But no matter how massive the desk was, it didn't compare to the man sitting behind it, who had been reading a book and now straightened himself to look at his patient. He towered above him, with his dirty raincoat, supposedly full of blood stains, his uncomfortably clean white face mask with a false, wide sneer, baring his teeth and the strange glasses that hid his eyes. The Plague Doctor.

He fixated his gaze on Morrie and sucked in the air. Morrie froze at the door, horrified. The man sniffed him! I didn't take my Joy!, his panicking brain shouted. I am a Downer! Morrie expected the doctor to run at him with a bone saw.

But the doctor relaxed and chuckled quietly. “Apologies, Mr. Memento. It's an old habit of mine. I just can't let go of the past as I should. You too, Mr. Memento? I assumed you live somewhere in Eel Pie Holm now. What brought you back? Not some infectuous disease, I hope?” The doctor folded his hands and somehow, his grin widened even more. His excitement was palpable. “I'm healthy”, Morrie answered, noticing the disappointment in the doctor's expression. When he approached the desk, he wondered if he should sit down on the padded chair that was just as flamboyant as the desk. He rather remained standing. He felt small enough.

“I'm here because I'm looking for someone.” “Straight to the point as always. I like that, Mr. Memento. Your request is very interesting as well. People here don't seem to seek anyone's company. Tell me more about this person.” Morrie gulped. He hated to be so thoroughly scanned. But he could only blame himself. He had been an open book back then, not only to the people in the village. And considering who he was looking for, he risked to sound crazy again.

“His name is Nick...” Morrie began and simply sensed the doctor's reaction. “I know what you're thinking, but this is different, okay? He looks a lot like...he dresses like...and he's aware of that and he calls himself Nick Lightbearer.” Silence ensued. Morrie avoided the doctor's gaze, not that he knew where the man's hidden eyes looked at anyway. “Nick Lightbearer, you say...”, the doctor rasped quietly. “A man like him shouldn't be hard to find...” Morrie's heart sunk. “You mean, you haven't seen him?” His greatest nightmare appeared to come true. “Not so fast, young man. I might've heard of him, yes...I see a way...” The doctor folded his hands again. He looked like he muttered to himself rather than talking to Morrie.

“Where is he? Please, tell me, it's urgent!” Morrie had no patience. To answer, the doctor slowly turned his eerie gaze back to him. “You know, usually my patients are very thankful for my help. They offer me a gift in return. The lack of Sovereigns doesn't mean we can't help each other out.” “I...I'm afraid I don't have anything with me...” Morrie inwardly scolded himself for being unprepared. Did that mean he had to go all the way back? He shot the doctor a desperate look.

“Ah, that shouldn't be a problem. You see, I'm low on certain supplies myself. I have a list here.” He held up a paper. “You're a capable young man. Would you put your healthy body in good use and fetch me these things?” Morrie felt a pang in his chest reading the list. All these ingredients for whatever potions he needed. It would be another day without seeing Nick again. But eyeing the doctor, it was rather this than not seeing Nick at all. “Er...no problem...” “You're a good man. I knew I could count on you. Now would you excuse me, I have other patients to attend.” “Sure....” Morrie stumbled out, back to fresh air and light.

Outside, he already wondered if the fumes in that room had made him delirious or if the doctor really was so damn tall. It overwhelmed him every time. As always, Morrie needed a while until he could focus on other tasks again. Reading the list helped. Morrie really wasn't eager to go for a scavenge hunt, but at least he didn't need to talk to anyone. And there was hope. The doctor really sounded like he had heard of Nick's whereabouts and as the message sunk in, Morrie felt utmost relief. Nick could still be hurt, though. That doctor wouldn't tell him until he had his damn supplies, so Morrie began to hurry.

When Nick entered the common room, the few Headboys in there stared at him. “Uh, morning?”, Nick said into the scene and the men laughed at that. “Good morning, sleeping beauty! Got out of bed already? I hope you had sweet dreams.” “Oh, I did, after I drunk you all under the table”, Nick countered. More laughter followed. “Top and bottom are easy to confuse when you're lying on the floor with your belly up.” “As you would know.” “Now listen to that big mouth! You want another round?” “No, not right now. I'm just looking for my equipment.” Nick imitated playing guitar to explain. “It's there...”, a Headboy pointed at a table in the corner. “Someone cared enough to save it.”

Nick was glad to see it unscathed and picket it up to vibe it. Then he rested on a couch to tune it. He felt much better having a guitar in his hands again and this time he wasn't too sick to cherish the moment. After tuning, he played a calm melody while the Headboys minded their own business. The lack of attention hurt a bit, but he was glad they didn't complain either. He felt that his relaxing melody was welcome and so he began to improvise, playing nothing in particular.

“Are you really Nick Lightbearer?”, someone asked after a while. “Yes, I am”, Nick just said, still hoping he could convince them. “Do you really need more proof?” “Hm...what's your favourite colour?” Nick furrowed his brows at the random question. “It's purple.” “That doesn't count! Everyone knows that!”, another Headboy protested. “Really? How?” Nick was confused. “It's like the annual question at your convention or something.” “U-huh..well...what else do you need to know?” “I'm thinking about it...” “Something only Nick knows.” “But then how would you know it?”

They bantered a bit, then fell quiet again and Nick continued to play. Because they didn't speak again, Nick considered this conversation to be over and became curious about all the other rooms he didn't see yet. He hoped to find the kitchen because he was hungry, so he left his spot and walked to the door. Halfway there, he suddenly heard a yell of multiple voices: “Norbert Pickles!” Nick jumped. He was sure his heart missed a beat and he shot around to stare at the Headboys in shock. The Headboys gaped at him as well, completely mute. Nick found this was a good time to leave, so he fled.

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