Back in the present, the adult brothers were pretty much halfway through the story with a count of fucking 26 500 words and still enjoying it.

Only, As they were taking a short water break, actual droplets had started falling on their camp... so now they had to share the space inside of Rhonda the armadillo bus.

The firefly had gladly took shelter completely trusting the armadillo pet at this point, her bed being a small blanket placed over the driver seat. The brothers were all discussing where to sleep, while Clay was begging John to finish the story;

- But John !! C'mon, how is that story suppose to help me with VIVA !!!??

John was currently insisting for Floyd to take his bed [since the whole Velvet and Veneer story] and jumped off the ladder;

- You gotta be patient I'm not there yet ! John Dory giggled, Hmm... Here ! I'll make us a bed on the floor !

- Floor ? Bruce repeated, not so excited about this.

With everyone helping, they were able to place a thin matress on the ground and a bunch of pillows. Poor Branch, still youngest and always baby of the family despite his protests, had literally fallen asleep at that point and there was no way to wake him up. John Dory had carried him on the made up bed on the ground, leaving the couch to Bruce.

Now breathing slowly, all laying in bed, the brothers were all ears for John Dory to finish the story except Branch who was asleep:

- Are you sure ? It's pretty late, the oldest gestured to Branch that was hugging his crocodile plush, I could always finish tomorrow.

- Clay won't go to sleep- at least not before you're done telling it, Floyd yawned.

Decision was made, So John Dory cleared his throat and proceeded;

━━━━━━ ◦ ❖ ◦ ━━━━━━

The show started not so short after and the entierety of the Pop trolls' eyes were focus on their screen for the big show of the year !

There were a lot of participants.... some weren't so great-

A Young Sky Toronto was up on the stage, and was taking a deep breathe before starting to sing-

- NoOoOoOoo OONnEe, NooOo OnEe , NOOOOoOO ONEEE-

On the judge seats were three professionals; June C. Herself, a yellow worm and a baby troll named Goldie.

- DISMISS ! June C. yelled.

- Mew, Mr. Dinkles judged.

- ... No, Goldie stated.

Even some pretty interesting talents were refused !!

Doctor Moonbloom (younger as well) was showing how she can save a troll's life on stage, and saying this was a talent.

- I'M A DOCTOR.

Everyone just stared.

- DISMISS ! June C. yelled.

- Mew, Mr. Dinkles judged.

- ... No, Goldie stated.

- NEXT !!!

The Next troll on stage was Cybil, and her talent was to predict the future....

- My fortune is telling me that I will win ! She said with a mysterious tone.

... That was a wrong prediction-

- DISMISS ! June C. yelled.

- Mew, Mr. Dinkles judged.

- ... No, Goldie stated.

- NEXT !!!

The next participant wasn't a troll- it was a Cloud guy, and his talent well-

- I come from the future, he explained, I can time travel !

Another long silence.

- DISMISS ! June C. yelled.

- Mew, Mr. Dinkles judged.

- ... No, Goldie stated.

- NEXT !!!

Next was Mags Gumdrop and her big hair- dismiss- THEN for some reason the trolls accounts owner ;

- I make humans reacts to random posts, They explained.

- ... what are humans ? Goldie asked as if she didn't know. [GOLDIE DUH]

- They're very ugly creatures addicted to flat mirrors and destroying their own planet, The account owner showed pictures.

Everyone looked disgusted at the creatures on the screen, someone in the audience even comparing them to naked beach giraffes-

- that sounds so sad... GET THEM CANCELLED !! June C. chased away the participant.

After the humans got cancelled in the Trolls show, next on stage was a mouse with red pants whistling a familiar song. He realized then his mistake;

- Oh shuck fellas ! Looks like im the wrong franchise ! oh oh !

Mickey Mouse causually left the stage like nothing happened.

-... whu happen, June C. blurted.

Next a random guy was standing on stage, somehow fitting in the trolls world, his name was Jaden.

- I write books, he stated.

Crickets.

- DISMISS ! June C. yelled.

- Aw man! I liked that guy, he should have won ! Clay said from behind the curtains, dissapointed.

- CLAY?? His brothers were shocked he forgot why they were here in the first place.

The Toothless dancing meme was also dismiss, as well as some random troll presenting weapons-

- And this one goes KABOOM ! It's my favorite ! The small troll named Tae said.

- ... TAE, WHY ARE YOU ON THE STAGE, Baby Goldie yelled from her seat.

- You know her ?! June C. asked.

Since everyone got shocked their other baby trolls friends came on stage to save her from ultimate jail time.

- HAHAH, Baby Lee pulled on Tae's arm to get their buddy off the stage, VERY FUNNY TAE, LET'S GET YOU HOME...

- BUT I WANNA DO KABOOM !! The little green troll complained.

- No tae- No kaboom- Baby Jonas crossed his arms as he followed them.

- Shut up- anyways, 👹 KABOOOMM 👹

- KIDS AREN'T ALLOWED IN THIS TALENT SHOW ! June C. reminded them, GET THEM OFF THE STAGE !

- Treehouse club, OUT ! Jonas did a pose as they left.

After the group of other kids got kicked off the stage, it was now turn for the brothers to go on stage for the very first time in their life- even if they were trying to not let it show off, the group was terrified they would blew this off and fail in saving their home and family.

John Dory took a deep breathe as he turned around to look at his little siblings. They all looked nervous; Spruce was shifting on his feet, Clay was biting his fingers, and Floyd was hugging Branch's egg shell.

- Hey... we can do this, John Dory smiled at them, remember, we're BroZone !

They nodded;

- Yeah... Spruce agreed.

- We got each other, Clay reminded everyone.

- And when we come together, there's nothing that we can't do ! Floyd smiled.

At that moment, Branch jumped off Floyd's arms and started jumping around his brothers in excitement. All of the older siblings gave joyous giggles, John Dory taking Branch in his arms;

- Okay, let's BRO !

AND NOW, AS OUR NEXT VERY SHORT PARTICIPANTS, NOT KIDS, A BOYBAND NO ONE AS EVER HEARD ABOUT...

LADIES AND GENTLEMEN... HERE THEY ARE !!

THE HEARTHROB !!
THE FUN BOY !!
THE SENSIBLE ONE !!
THE LEADER !!
And.... THE BABY !!

- Wait... baby !?? A random troll shouted.

THAT'S JUST A MASCOT COSTUME !!

- Oh okay, the troll sat back down.

GIVE IT UP FOR...
BROZONE !!!!

Appearing under the spotlight, the brothers waved to the crowd, trying their best to look confident. Only- once first step was taken well-

FLOP !

ALL of them, AT THE SAME TIME, all fell face first on the stage. The egg almost fell off as it was rolling around them.

Their fail was taken as a joke and everyone laughed at them. The brothers getting up with shame. But John Dory said something to his brothers under the crowds's cheers and then the stage turned dark.

A beat started playing and the first spotlight turned on above John Dory who started to sing first with courage;

I came to dance, dance, dance, dance (yeah !)
I hit the floor
'Cause that's my plans, plans, plans, plans (yeah !)

The rest of the brothers' respective spotlights light up as well, the beat getting louder and catchier. Trolls would start to cheer and dance along. Clay and Spruce took the second line;

I'm wearing all my favorite brands, brands, brands, brands (yeah)
Give me some space for both my hands, hands, hands, hands
Yeah, yeah !

Floyd took the front, hitting a higher note with Baby Eggie Branch by his side;

'Cause it goes on and on and oooon!
And it goes on and on and ooooon, yeah !

I throw my hands up in the air sometimes
Saying, "Ayo, gotta let go"
I wanna celebrate and live my life
Saying, "Ayo, baby, let's go"

As one, the brothers were more than a normal boyband. They did not know it yet but this had been the start of their popularity, everyone was recording the performance. While you couldn't quite tell what it was, something just about their voices, the choreography and the happiness they were giving just made everyone fans of them. It was like they could reach the legendary family harmony...

'Cause we gon' rock this club
We gon' go all night
We gon' light it up
Like it's dynamite !

'Cause I told you once
Now I told you twice
We gon' light it up
Like it's dynamite !

They hitted the final pose, and the crowds screamed so loudly that June had to plug her ears. She was astonished, impressed by the group's talent... she had also seen that there was someting special about these trolls.

They waved the crowd, feeling happy they managed to perform as a team. They were so happy they all hugged each other, and June C. Asked for silence...

- .... Admited.

- Mew, Mr. Dinkles nodded.

- .... Yes, Goldie nodded.

They did it ! Cheering loudly, the crowd screamed the new group's name; BroZone was going to the Finals !!

But... who would be their rival ?

...

- WE DID IT ! Floyd cheered loudly.

Back behind the stage, waiting to see who was the other finalist, the brothers were still moved by their amazing performance. They didn't believed still that they got accept into the finals, and now there was only but one participant to win against...

- We still have to stay focus, John Dory reminded his group as he held Branch in his arms, Remember, the money isn't ours if we don't win against whoever this troll is !

And they would not be ready to see who actually was their rival...

Nervously staring from backstage, the brothers looked over at the stage to see what kind of troll would fit on such a tiny piano- the one that was place in the middle of the stage. A shadow appeared on the wall as the stranger walked up to it. The crowd was cheering, excited to see who was the beloved character...

The shadow suddendly got smaller, and John Dory frowned as he saw who was their ennemy;

- Is that... ? He whispered.

A small armadillo critter went to sit at the piano.

The crowd didn't seem to find this concerning and gave their vocal chords to the critter; she was a spotted armadillo, pink with large blue eyes. Her little tail wagged, placing her little paws on the notes. She looked absolutely adorable !

And now... none other than June.C's beloved pet...

... CHLOE THE ARMADILLO !!

Loud cheers came from the audience, John Dory was shocked, not believing what he judged to be an injustice;

- What?! An ARMADILLO CRITTER ?? Why is a critter allowed to this contest ??

- Yeah ! Clay agreed with the square for once, And they said she was June's pet, isn't that cheating ?

- Guys, relax, Spruce crossed his arms, she's an armadillo- she probably can't even play that thing.

And just like that a melody just as beautiful as a whole trained and harmonized ochestra started filling their ears.

The whole room got quiet as everyone was all ears only for the judge's pet. Her blue paws delicately touched the chords in such a delightful way ! Even Floyd closed his eyes, enjoying it.

The melody finished with a beautiful C chord and everyone cheered loudly, the little critter getting off her seat to smile at the trolls praising her. John Dory was actually about to loose it this time, how was this fair ?

- HOW is that even POSSIBLE ?? He gestured, She's not even using her FINGERS, SHE DOESN'T HAVE ANY... !

- John.. I think you need a little more understanding- Floyd had actually very much enjoyed the experience, I mean, Branch doesn't have any mouth, and somehow he sang with us and-

- That's NOT how YOU 👹 PEH PEH 👹 the older brother blurted out an inside joke only a few people would get.

- BUT JOHN ! Floyd whined.

He shook his head, and yelled;

- FUCK ARMADILLOS !

All the brothers gasped in shock, but it was now official; John Dory who had just learned what armadillos were, just decided he would hate them forever ! Because Chloe just got on his nerves !!

- JOHN ! THAT'S NOT PROFESSIONAL ! Clay grounded him.

- I DON'T GIVE A DAMN ABOUT NO PROFESSIONAL-

- Fine... but I'm tired and hungry can we go to pizza hut- Floyd demanded.

- WHAT THE SHIT IS A PIZZA HUT?!?!

- John Dory, calm the hell down- Spruce held him back.

- OH YEAH RIGHT, BECAUSE THERE'S NO CHICKEN BRO !!!!

- What? Spruce and Floyd raised an eyebrow.

- He's lost it- Clay plugged his ears.

- NO! SCREW THIS ! John Dory stomped his feet, EVERYONE IN THIS BUILDING CAN KISS, MY, AS-

-SOON THE FINALISTS ARE REQUESTED TO COME ON STAGE !

THE 10 000$ PRICE IS ABOUT TO GET WON BY THE MOST TALENTED !

Now there was nothing else to do but have to face their destiny.

BroZone got back under the spotlight to join their rival, Chloe the armadillo still sitting on her own seat, and the brothers having to stand up by her side. Nervous whispers could be heard from the trolls watching the talent show; some were about Chloe, others, about the new boyband... it was quite tight, and everyone just shared one common question; who would get home with 10 000$ in their pockets tonight ??

John Dory could feel his heart pang rapidly in his chest, feeling like he was gonna burst. He felt fear, anxiety... he hadn't even noticed he was shaking.

He felt a hand slide in his; at first he thought one of his brothers needed comfort, but he relaxed slightly seeing Clay that was instead, giving him courage with a gentle squeeze.

- Alright ! June C. spoke in a microphone, catching everytroll's attention; We've got our two finalists up front and it's time to determine who wins !

Chloe didn't even seem scared, giving a smirk to the brothers because she already felt so confident she would win this contest. Spruce had to hold himseld back to not kick her across the stage like a soccer ball.

- But instead of us judges choosing who wins... June C. continued, I'm gonna switch things up a bit and let that be to all of YOU lovely folks !

Hearing these exciting news, the crowd cheers excitedly; this had never happened before in the history of the talent show ! The brothers yet, were discouraged; everyone probably prefered Chloe playing piano, right ?

- Alrighty ! First, let's hear it for my talented little muffin... CHLOE !

Like expected, Trolls started cheering loudly for the celebrity's pet. It was so loud the siblings just felt as if they had already lost...

- Ugh, JD discretely rolled his eyes.

- They're uh.. they're cheering a lot.. Floyd pointed out, hiding behind his big brothers.

Clay was the one to look the most heartbroken out of all of them;

- Yeah- it's over- we lose...

- Hey come on enough of that ! JD shushed them, You heard how wild the crowd went when we finished our performance there's no WAY we're not gonna win, right ?

Eventually, it was time to face the truth. The silence came back from the audience, and June gestured to them. The spotlight was on them, John Dory's ears dropping down as he realized he wasn't so certain they were gonna win afterall;

- Second... the wonderful boyband themselves.. BROZONE !! CLAP IT UP YALL !!

...

Silence.

Okay- when I said they thought they lost, it wasn't THAT they were expecting- at least a quieter applause, but now the room was just dead silent !

As the brothers lowered their gaze, one clapping troll got up from his seat.

And then another... and another...

Soon the whole audience was cheering for them, chanting the boyband's name. The group of trollings' jaws were wide open as everyone had judged they were the one to deserve the 10 000$ price and consider the most talented trolls of the village !

Chloe was simply outraged, her blue eyes grew wide open as showed menacing teeth to the group that had stole from her the first place. June yet, had to respect the rules and walked toward the real winners;

- Oh WOW that is a lot! Well there you have it then ! She chuckled as she turned around to face them: congratulations you five, you-

She was welcomed by a John Dory staring at her like some crazy square shaped critter. He had one single question and didn't planned on being quiet about it;

- ...win.. we.. we... won.. ?

The judge nodded, and the rest of the newborn boyband gasped in shock; John Dory gave a heartfelt laugh at his family.

- We... we WON !!!

- YAAAAAAAYYYYY !! Floyd broke into loud cheers, jumping excitedly as he lifted Branch in his arms, WE DID IT WE DID IT !!!

- N-No way.. we actually won ?!?! Spruce raised an eyebrow before Clay jumped on his back, hugging him tightly;

- HECK YEAAAAHHHH!!! WOOHOOOOOOO!! He rubbed their cheeks together.

June couldn't help but gave a gentle chuckle as she saw them clebrating, hugging each other and spinning around the stage;

- I'll be right back with your prize ! She announced, even if they weren't listening and walked away to go get it.

The boys weren't done celebrating under the loud crowds's applause. Mostly Floyd was reaching the C8 easily, overexcited as he was bouncing on an imaginary beat;

- WE DID IT I CAN'T BELIEVE WE DID IT !! He giggled.

- Well I CAN! John Dory scooped all of his brothers up in his arms, even the egg, I always knew we'd be able to do it.. I'm proud of you guys !

His brothers all hugged him back, smiling up to him. They were whispering things such as "Be proud of yourself too man !" or even " Yeah! This is all because of you !".

- ...yeah yeah what they all said I love you whatever- Clay mumbled with his entiere face smashed into his side, which made his brother pull him closer.

As he held them close, his heart was feeling with joy; they did it ! They had won the talent show ! They would receive the money and Grandma would be able to pay her rent and they would stay with her forever ! She would be so proud of them !

- ...we did it Grandma... he mumbled into his brothers' hair.

Yet, one character was NOT happy about this happy ending that wasn't hers ! She could not accept defeat ! And she had noticed something off about these trolls that no one else seemed to have noticed ! Chloe the armadillo was eyeing them and listening to them, feeling something wasn't right... June C. was coming back with the huge 10 000$ check and immediately she ran up to her and nudges her leg, making soft but concerned noises. June looked down at her precious treasure;

- What's wrong, baby ? She worried.

Chloe crawled up to her shoulder and mumbled something in her ear. SOMEHOW understanding, the judge started furrowing her eyebrows in confusion...

- What? Really? She exclaimed.

John Dory's ears had twitched and he noticed the situation.... As he slowly realized what was going on, his heart dropped, him and his brothers all looking over at the two of them as they realize they were having a conversation about them...

- ...are you sure ? June asked to be sure.

And Chloe nodded.

Oh no.

- Well.. alright... June stared at John Dory, You're my smart little cupcake and you've never lied to me before...

Even if he knew, he hoped he was wrong, he hoped so bad he was wrong and that June had gotten the wrong price and would maybe give them 100 000$ instead ! His brothers gathered closer to their father figure as June walked up to them, kneeling down to JD's level.

- Uhhh... HEY so, ready to hand over that check? The trolling would put on a small smile.

The woman took a longer moment of realization, and sighed; she couldn't believe she hadn't realized it before !

- Uhhh, not quite yet, I.. need to confirm a few things first, she got back up, crossing her arms; You all.. are of age to be here, correct ?

At the mention of age, the eyes of Spruce, Clay and Floyd widened, as well as their ears dropping on the side of their giant baby trolls heads. John Dory, always leader and protecting his younger siblings, acted out a smile of confidence, nudging Spruce for backup;

- Yeah, course we are ! He said, What kind of a silly question is that hahaaa- okay was that all ?

The turquoise trolling's hair tried to grab the check but Chloe grumbled, preventing John from reaching it. Seeing the pet's reaction, the judge shook her head;

- Well... Can you provide to me all of your identification papers?

- Wh- huh-

- I didn't stutter, did I ?

- But- but we are adults ! He lied and pointed to Chloe; What... did she tell you that ?

The crowd had gotten quiet as they listened carefully to what was going on on the stage... why wasn't BroZone getting their well deserved price ?

- That's not important, June shook her head, I need to see some information.. and unless you can do that, I won't be able to hand over this check to you and will have to escort you all out...

This was apart of the rules since June said it was. The banana hair in their group was frustrated, the mustard getting up his little lilac nose;

- Look lady- he started walking up to her, we ARE adults, whether YOU like it OR-

JD slapped his hand on his mouth;

-... uhhhh YEAH YEAH I CAN give you proof !

And having nothing else to give to her well- he looked into his hair and first thing he found were the CPS official papers. Trolls didn't even needed to see them upclose to gasp in shock... those were clasified children ?!

- Here !! Aaaalll you need to know !! John Dory tried to calm his anxiety getting to him.

June snatched the papers from his smaller hand and looked through them, scrunching up her nose slightly as she started to be proved right... she didn't showed any mercy as she started to read out loud their names, kids names, far from cool boyband nicknames;

- ... John Dory, 12 years old.

This trolling thay had just been named realized his mixtake and his eyes widened in shock. He stuttered out something unclear but June kept reading;

- ... Spruce, 9 year old.

- Oh god... the purple trolling mumbled.

- Clay, 6 year old ?! She gasped in shock.

- LIAR, NO I'M NO- his voice cracked, reaching a E and then he sighed; ...yeah that gave it away-

- Floyd, 3 year old ?? She looked up at the toddler, pointing to the sheet.

- Oh nooooo, the guilty one covered his eyes and whimpered.

- And...

She didn't even read Branch's name out loud, and looked at the egg that she had thought had just been a costume like mentionned on their inscription paper;

Branch waved with his foot.

- ...fetus, June completed.

As the crowd was murmuring in shock, Spruce gave John Dory's side a slight hit to get his attention;

- Why would you give her our CPS PAPERS !!! He grunted.

- Yeah, way low!! Clay fell back on his butt, Did you WANT US to lose ?!

Clay couldn't really understand this has been an honest mistake. John Dory could feel his chest start to feel tighter, his heart beating faster, in a not very pleasant way;

- I-I don't know I‐ I panicked, okay?! I forgot our ages were on there I didn't-

- Boys ? June called.

The boys all turned to her. She found herself to feel... compassion. She could see their hopes shattering down in pieces in their eyes. Yet she couldn't go against her values;

- ...I'm sorry. Rules are rules. I'm gonna have to let you go.

And that made John loose it. Suddendly, everything was falling on his shoulders, all of his efforts had been done for nothing but crumbles. Someone had just grabbed him by the collar and dropped him from an 100ft balcony with his hopes; tears formed in the corner of his eyes, he blinked them away but the truth wouldn't just get away, and he had to face it;

- No... no please you CAN'T do this this is too important ! He fell on his knee and grabbed her leg, You don't get it ! This money- it could SAVE us !!

June yet, hadn't seen the totality of the papers and shook her head, walking out of the kid's grip. She couldn't let herself fall for the kid' puppy eyes, and he was not giving up;

- June, please you don't UNDERSTAND!!! John Dory nearly ran up to her to hug her side again until he felt Spruce grab his shoulder to hold him back.

June sighed, looking back to see the 3 year old in tears, he pulled on her clothes, holding back small sobs;

- Ms. June, please... he begged, we need the big price...

Yet she said nothing. She said nothing else then picked up the check, as well as the microphone and turned to the crowd, who all looked either confused or concerned.

- Ladies and gentlemen, June spoke up, after some discussion.. I have decided that I will be choosing who wins this competition this year... and those winners will not be Brozone.

- WHAT?!! John Dory yelled.

June ignored the complains, the crowd exclaiming their disappointement. She had to respect the rules.

- I apologize, but.. they didn't respect the rules, she affirmed, those rules being that minors aren't allowed.. which is what they are.. so therefore... she looked back at the boys who had mixes of looks of heartbreak, disappointment, and frustration; ...Chloe wins.

The crowd eventually started to clap for Chloe. The spotlight no longer being on them, John's clothes suddendly felt really heavy. His chest was tight, air barely getting in, and his heart felt as if he was in the middle of a marathon even his shaky, heavy legs could barely keep him standing up right. His hand reached his heart, he strangled out a shaky sob, then another, and another; he was hyperventilating, his fists balling up slightly.

Seeing and not quite understanding the pain he was in, his small brother Floyd walked up to him quickly. He had never seen of heard of a panic attack before, and didn't know his little touch would feel like a lightning strike for his brother;

- John ?? Are you okay ?

JD looked down at him, and Floyd was surprised himself to realized he got scared. John Dory was scaring him; he noticed the way he was barely breathing... his vision as well as hearing was getting a little fuzzy as the rest of his brothers and crowd around him were fading in a scary fog, leaving John Dory to look like he was being possesed by the monsters in his nightmares;

- John Dory ?? Floyd called again, taking a step back.

- John?? Spruce sensed something was wrong; Hey, John !?

- What's wrong with him ? Clay had stopped pouting, seeing his brother in this state.

JD was feeling tears prick at his eyes as he send a look over at June one more time, who was handing the money over to Chloe.

- No.... John Dory shook his head, no, NO !!

Ennable to handle more, he ran out of the building immediately, leaving his family behind.

- John Dory, wait !! Floyd ran after him the fastest his little legs would let him.

Understanding their mission had failed, Spruce sighed heavily and ran a hand through his hair;

- Come on.. Clay, grab Branch, he added before following the two of them.

June stared at the brothers running after John Dory, hoping to not lose him, and sighed once again before announcing the end of the show

As she walked backstage, looking down as she noticed Chloe was nuzzling her. She stopped on her track;

- ... I can't tell you that that wasn't hard for me to do... June kneeled down to pet her armadillo, I'm usually a strict person and I think highly of rules but.. for some reason this time felt different...

Chloe only made a gentle purr, not really caring since she had the medal around her neck anyway. June took it as other words :

- I know, I know it was the right thing to do. But- there was just something about them being so upset that.. worried me...

Chloe this time raised an eyebrow; worries her ? Why would June by worried for a bunch of liars ? They had go against the rules to steal her price ! Yet she gave a slight questionning sound, wanting to know more;

- I.. I don't know, June picked her pet in her arms; They're gone, I guess there's no reason for me to dwell on it... well... You won cupcake, she smiled, congrats ! She added and kissed her cheek

After our first ever show, and as well as first ever defeat, we were at our lowest...

Without this money, we knew that we had failed to save our family.

Sitting outside of the backstages, the brothers of BroZone were all sitting together as a group, commonly staring at the floor... they had been so close ! And because they were just kids, Had been forced to silence ! This was so unfair; they really needed this money and now all hopes were gone to stay and live with Grandma forever.

- .... BROZONE !

Clay had just lifted his fist in the air and randomly blurted their new boyband name outloud in a cheerful tone. Spruce stared at him with a huge frown of dissapointement:

- ...why did you just DO THAT ?!

- I thought it might cheer us up ! Clay smiled proudly, again, 6 years old arent that quick of thinkers-

- You can't blurt it out at anytime it RUINS THE EFFECT!!!! Spruce grounded him, upset since he had started to like the name until Clay had just ruined it.

But well, maybe Clay wasn't the one that just ruined BroZone. Maybe the real problem that had ruined everything was sitting right by their side, in this very moment, lost in dark thoughts and regrets... John Dory's eyes were focused on his closed fists on his knees, he kept replaying everything that had happened in the last two days inside his mind; where had he failed ? If only he just could be the perfect little John Dory that was expected !...

- This... he finally came to a conclusion, this is ALL, my fault...! I was the one that thought this would work and that we'd be able to fix everything at home.. but of course it all went downhill !

The older trolling burried his face into his palms, failing to hide the sharp breathes in that he was taking. His brothers, shocked, grew quiet... John Dory, even if they would probably never admit it, was their guide, their protector, a life line... well, their father. And if their dad was lost, out of ways, well... what would they do now ?

Feeling the sorrow John Dory was going through, Floyd quietly approached him. In an attempt to comfort him, he opened his arms, wrapping John's side in a small embrace. Unlucky, because his sibling was not in the mood and gently pushed him away;

- N-No, no - Now we're MILES away in an unfamiliar area, Grandma is probably worried sick and she's gonna be even more sick when we get taken away ! A-And-

His siblings' expressions switched to shock when they understood John Dory was crying;

- Not only that... he kept chasing his tears, but I'm gonna loose you guys forever too ! He chocked on a sob, A-And we already lost mom and dad what am I-

He took in a sharp breathe,

- What am I without you, guys ? ...

His words struck the three younger brother's souls; they knew John Dory loved them. Every big brother was suppose to love their younger siblings, yet hearing that he felt like he was nothing without them, that he had no purpose, made them realize how much their older brother was literally giving everything he had for them. He didn't have to care about chaotic, loud and annoying little brothers this much and they were so lucky because he still did.

Spruce sighed, getting up from his seat and gently, his hands reached out for the orange goggles on these turquoise locks. He removed them and placed them aside, the tension lifted with the weight of the accessory.

- John... he placed a hand on his.

- Go ahead Spruce, you can say it, this was a stupid idea and we shouldn't have done it... John Dory shook his head, I know you want to...

- No.. I.. I wasn't gonna...

He smiled, giving his hand a gentle squeeze so he would look at him in the eye. John sniffed and whipped the tears in his cheeks. Seeing he was finally open to listen, Spruce would then scoot closer to him, wrapping an arm around his shoulders;

- ... we tried our best, right ?

His hand drew circles on the leader's back, not really knowing how, but trying his best to calm him down. It kind of worked a little, just enough for JD to give him a slight smile, the corner of his lip twitching.

Out of nowhere, Clay got up from where he had been sitting and ran up to his big brother. His arms wrapped around him, wanting to cheer him up;

- Y.. Yeah ! He nodded, That junebug lady is crazy for not letting us win ! We were the best acts out there ! And it was SOOOO FUN !!

John Dory had been right; Clay hadn't thought so at first but permorming with his family did ended up being fun !! Floyd joined the embrace with Branch eventually... and well, even if their family was broken... broken crayons still colors.

John Dory held all of them close, he seriously didn't know how he would ever live without them... maybe hide somewhere in the woods and never show his face again... he didn't wanted to think about it, burrying his face into his siblings hair so he wouldn't have to face the reality of the world.

He found the strenght to chuckle;

- Yeah.. yeah it was pretty fun, wasn't it... ? At least we got to experience something new !

This seemed to be convincing enough for Clay and Spruce to nod joyfully. Floyd, being the empath of the bunch, patted his back gently;

- It's not your fault John... you did a good thing... you wanted to help our family... you listened to your heart !

JD considered what Floyd had said with saddened pearls, but gave him a warm gaze. He almost just immediately pulled him in close to him, sighing quietly, holding back the fear that was eating him alive if he ever came to loose his baby brothers;

- ... Yeah well... my heart is what keeps getting me in trouble...

We had lost, it was all over...

...And lemme guess, the CPS came and seperated us forever ?

... well-

After a little bit of silence and sad thoughts about what would happen to them in the future, the second oldest brother proposed an activity to help lighten the mood from the inevitable ending they would to eventually face, and it just HAD to be what first came first to a trolling's mind;

- ... Anyone wanna... get some more ice cream ? Spruce suggested with a shrug, his heart pinching in a painful way.

They all stared at him then each other for a bit before small smiles began to form on their faces, yeah, a sugary snack did sounded great; you could make anyone fill better with a full stomach.

- You know what... yeah ! John actually agreed to it this time, feeling somehow grateful that his brothers' spirits weren't completely drained from all of the unfair situation, Let's get ice cream !

He stood up and dusted himself off before turning to his younger siblings with a small gesture toward the market, away from the show they had been kicked out from;

- Come on, he took the lead.

And it was right after they got up with him, as he took the hand of Floyd, after placing Branch's egg in his hair, after he made sure Spruce and Clay were by his side, close by, that they began making their way back to where the ice cream stand was. As one family.

Yet, the little stroll was cut short though when something coincidentally caught one of the brother's eyes...

- HEY ! Isn't that Mr. T-Slush over there ?? Clay asked.

It was indeed, Tony Mr.Slush - and he was acting quite strangely. His cold colored hair were appearing from behind a strange critter mask he was just now taking off and throwing on the side. Spruce tilted his head on the side, seeing he was running out of the backstage as well;

- Hey, yeah, it is ! Why does it look like he's in a hurry though ? The 9 year old questionned.

Mr. Slush, strange as he was, was looking around way too often and trying to hide something he's holding in his light blue arms, moving around weirdly so his body would hide whatever he had against his chest, refusing to let go of it even if it seemed like that something was fighting back.

JD squinted and mumbled almost quietly, getting confused and a little suspicious about what this troll was up to. He pushed his brothers down so they would be hiding, no protests were heard;

- What the hair is he doing ...? He murmured to himself.

- Ugh- Clay rolled his eyes -I knew that guy was a weirdo !

- Wait‐ he's holding something... what is that ?? Spruce gestured.

From afar, still hiding and too hard to notice, T-Slush turned a certain way that allowed them to see a little bit of the thing; the lower half of her body showing her spotted pink patterns, dark blue tail and hind legs. They immediately recognized what Mr.Slush was holding, and the boys collectively gasped in pure shock:

- Hoooold up- Clay started to put two and two together.

- Is that-?! Spruce pointed at the poor critter.

That poor critter, none other than Chloe the armadillo, winner of the Trolls Got Talent show, was visibly struggling to escape from the troll's arms, hissing and spitting on him armadillo rage cries.

- Chloe ?!?! All of them said in a common realization.

They could see Tony scolding her quietly before looking around once more; seeing no one in sight, he took off out of the brothers' sight.

The youngest brothers' jaws were dropped open all the way down at these shocking discoveries they had been the only ones to witness. Chloe the armadillo, June C.'s precious baby, had just got kidnapped by a troll they just met today, and they had see everything happen right in front of their eyes!

- ... welp, happens to the best of us, I guess we win !

John Dory still had not much pity for the critter; maybe her getting kidnap meant good news for them ! His brothers gathered around him to stop him on his track;

- WE JUST WITNESSED.. A KIDNAPPING, Spruce yelled in his face, AND YOU JUST WALK AWAY ??

- Yeah ?

Floyd, instead of trying and block John Dory, blew him a raspberry and rushed to follow the kidnapper. Luckily, Clay was smart enough to hold him back;

- FLOYD WAIT !! We can't just run after them, we need a plan !

- But we just sat there and watched her get taken away ! Floyd almost sounded like he was grounding them, We could've done something ! We CAN do something !

He stared at the oldest, begging for his support. John Dory, well-

- It's not our PROBLEM ! He assured as he walked by Spruce.

- You're right, it isn't... The purple haired child still blocked him the way; but that doesn't mean we should still let it happen !

The older trolling stopped; he wasn't an idiot, he knew this wasn't right.

- Come on John... Spruce sighed, placing a hand on his shoulder, We may have lost the contest, but.. we didn't lose each other yet... we can work together and do the right thing.

- But think about how Grandma feels right now that we're missing.. she's probably so scared and if we don't come back with this prize... the leader started.

- We can't just let June loose what she has most precious in this world ! Floyd cried out.

This time he heard them, and John sighed loudly;

- Okay, okay ! We'll save the armadillo !

His brothers cheered in victory, happy to do the right thing. The oldest sighed, mumbling to himself;

- But this is the last time I listen to my stupid heart...

━━━━━━ ◦ ❖ ◦ ━━━━━━

The clock at this point was showing 1 am and Floyd was laying down, holding into a pillow as he gently breath in and out in a deep slumber.

Only the older brothers were awake now, John Dory had begged Clay to.at least lay down- Bruce was already doozing off on the couch while Clay's eyes were wide open and listened to John Dory with interest; the story had got sad and he just simply adored sad stories.... even if it was their.

John Dory hadn't thought the story would take this long to tell. Clay wanting to pass time with him still made him motivated and ignoring Bruce's advice, he had made himself some coffee so he could finish the story for the middle child. He still was curious to know how it would help him with Viva- yeah, he still hadn't forgot about that !

He had agreed for John Dory to take a quick break and waited for him to come back to the living room. Eventually the square himself made his way to the room, chuckling as he saw what Clay was up to;

- Okay, John Dory sat down with his refill cup, You're still awake, aren't you ? What are you doing ?

Viva always made braids to people she loved, and he had no idea why but Clay thought it would just be an amazing idea to braid poor baby Branch's hair in his sleep.

- Don't you think he's going to wake up and feel like a royal princess ? Clay chuckled.

Branch just made a loud snore sound as an answer to which John Dory snickered;

- I guess, you know, he was probably the only reason we managed to save Chloe !

- Really ? Clay raised an eyebrow surprised, but wasn't he still in his egg ?

- Well, some parts in this story can get surprising...

━━━━━━ ◦ ❖ ◦ ━━━━━━

Us, BroZone came up with a plan !

Well, after several versions of it-

....Of course-

The group of trollings, instead of picking a mature and logical solution, just had to follow from afar the kidnapper's critter ice cream car, away from the main market and show place.

T-Slush, after placing Chloe in a cage, got out of his critter car. From here, they had almost reached the roots of the tree, and the bros were surprised to see the troll get INSIDE the bark !.. a secret room in the village ?

- Does King Peppy knows that mean trolls kidnap armadillos and bring them in a secret room ? Floyd asked, obviously shaking from fear for whatever they were going to do.

Above the entrace, there was an old sign, covered in vines on which you could read "Trolls' wastewater treatment plant". This was probably were all the water used in the village was being treated so it was clean and safe use, which could appear like a secret room for trollings like them.

- What's the plan ? How do we save Chloe ?? Spruce questionned the group outloud.

Rule number one; never ask BroZone a question on which theres OPTIONS and therefore, GIVE THEM POSSIBILITIES TO DISAGREE-

- Okay okay‐ Spruce is right, before we take off ANYWHERE- we have to come up with a perfectly formulated and THOUGHT OUT plan ! John Dory agreed with his brother.

- There's no time for that ! Clay jumped out of their hiding place, Tony my beloved could be anywhere with Chloe and who knows what he's possibly doing to her right now !

Spruce grabbed him by the shirt, pulling him back to their hide spot, grumbling;

- Did you HAVE to say Tony my beloved-

- Reference purposes, Clay shrugged.

- We can't just run up to this random guy NOT knowing what he's capable of ! John Dory slapped the back of his head, He literally kidnapped an armadillo probably worth MILLIONS !

- Wait- what if we kidnap Chloe instead- Clay suggested so they would get the money, earning another well deserved slap; OW ! Heyyyyy but we need the money !

- Weren't you the one just saying there was no time to come up with a plan to save her ?? Spruce ran his hands down his face.

- BUT THE MONEYYYY, Clay whined.

- ... WAAAAHHHHH!!! Floyd randomly bursted out sobbing.

- WHY ARE YOU CRYING-

- HEY !! John Dory put his foot down, Somebody, anybody ! Just come up with a plan, so were not just sitting here !

The boys just sat there, all zoning out in their empty brains, all thinking, [well trying to- well actually no- what do you expect?] to themselves until Clay slowly raised his hand;

- ...I still have my hamme-

- NO !! Spruce and John Dory both shouted back at him.

- Oh come on ! The 6 year old was pouting, We could just knock him out then just get the frwickin thing ! He crossed his arms which actually looked pretty adorable.

- NO- no more hammer !

- hmph ! He pouted, his lower lip pocking out.

... more minutes of sitting there looking for non-existent solutions ideas in their empty brains-

- Hmmm... Floyd tapped his chin, then gasped; What if we call spongebob for help !! He cheered.

The three older brothers slowly turned to him, frowns of disaproval on their face. Floyd's little arms fell down on his sides;

- What ? He questionned in a tiny voice.

- ...floyd this really isn't the time for games, Spruce was the first to stop him.

- Well‐ he's really really smart and, well- well yeah I think he can help us-

- Spongebob is not going to helping us- John Dory got back to... zoning out.

Again, silence, empty brains, no thoughts.... and a crying 3 year old-

- You're right.. he sniffed loudly back his emerging tears, I ate his house earlier, he's not gonna wanna help us ! His pupils growing larger and waterfalls forming as his whimpers got louder, indicating he was about to start wailing again.

Clay just placed a hand on his shoulder;

- Listen baby brother... his eye was twitching, he's not gonna help us... because he's not REAL !!!!!!

- OKAY, ENOUGH ! John Dory picked Floyd off the ground, Floyd, you need a nap- He placed him in his hair to which Floyd didn't complained and curled himself up in his turquoise nest, Come on this is serious ! He said to Spruce and Clay, We're wasting too much time !!

Suddenly, bothered out of his nap since Floyd was taking the turn, Branch jumped out of John's hair and started walking off somewhere. The brothers were taken by surprise;

- Wh- Branch ?!! John Dory raised an eyebrow before facepalming; Oh shoot I forgot he was in there, he murmured to himself.

- Where is he- Spruce gestured.

Branch was hobbling over to a nearby corner and stopped as if he he had seen something; hopping up and down, urging his brothers to come over, the egg tried his best to get his big brothers' attention.

- ...why is he dancing ? Clay raised his hand.

The older of the group actually took the time to observe the egg; and he saw it, something on the ground. It was red and glittery... could it be ?...

- I think... I think he's trying to tell us something ! Come on !

He ran to where Branch was and the rest of the brothers quickly followed after John Dory. When they joined him and their youngest brother they saw what he found; something that looked to be drips of glitter and.. blood?

- ...glitter ? Blood ? He kneeled down to it, looking at it more closely and also, keeping Clay away from it-

The kid was looking above his shoulder, frowning at the substance in front of them. Even so young he could tell it wasn't what John originally thought it was;

- I think that's spit, not just glitter-

Spruce kneeled down too, taking Branch away from the hint;

- Maybe it's a clue ? He shared his perspective.

- But.. how ? The eldest met his gaze.

Floyd, still sleepy, poked his head out of John Dory's hair, pushing the goggles out of the way;

- Maybe... he rubbed his eyelids, ... maybe Chloe was biting and spitting on Mr. Tony and while she was some of it got on the ground ?

All of his brothers stared at him again, and Floyd blinked two times before realizing; he looked away, sighing, expecting the usual disaproval and telling him it was a stupid idea.

- ..that's the smartest thing you've said this entire trip- Clay blurted out.

Still sleepy, the 3 year old practical baby troll expression turned into a small smile;

- Really ?! He giggled softly.

- NOT a compliment, but, yeah- Clay looked away, not really good with giving compliments.

- Yeah, Floyd that's actually a really good theory ! JD ruffled his little brother's hair, congratulations well deserved.

- Yeah, nice one little bud, Spruce smiled up at him.

Floyd gave a little tired giggle, blushing a bit from all the praise he was finally getting for his ideas. He was still exhausted and fell asleep with his chin resting on top of John Dory's forehead. The one carrying him looked back at the spit & blood substance once again;

- Look, there's a small trail !

Spruce gestured and JD followed his gaze on the ground to where he was looking and, seeing the trail as well, he shook off the dirt off his clothes, then placed his hands on his hips;

- Oh wow.. okay okay we're getting somewhere !

- Well what now ?? Clay questionned watching him stand up.

- Well duh ! We follow it ! Come on let's go ! He took off to the secret entrance.

The brothers took off alongside each other as they followed the trail of glitter spit and blood and walked in what they thought, in their child mind, was an amazing secret room- only it wasn't.

- IT SMELLS LIKE GARBAGE IN HERE !! Clay ran out.

- COME BACK HERE !!! Spruce's purple hair wrapped around his waist and pulled him right back inside.

━━━━━━ ◦ ❖ ◦ ━━━━━━

The news of Chloe the armadillo, winner of the contest, had spread quickly around the place. After parking her crittercar, Grandma Rosiepuff was surprised by a huge crowd of news reporters, trying to get informations on where was June's pet.

- What is going on ?? She asked, patting a random troll's shoulder

Nochalant, the troll shrugged; he didn't really know why he was there but it was interesting;

- Some baby-thing winner got kidnap by who knows who !

Her brain did a simple yet impulsive conclusion;

- wh-wha- WHAT ???

She pushed him out of the way to get in the front where yellow ribbon was hang to delimitate a safe zone for the trolls to stand in- let's say Grandma didn't give a shit and jumped above it, angrily stomping every rapid step toward one of the cops.

- YOU.

The poor random police officer just trying to do his job didn't have the time to react as Rosiepuff grabbed him by the shirt and yelled in his face, not caring about the trouble she could have got in. She asked a single question, worried sick;

- INCOMPETANT ! She insulted him, WHERE ARE MY GRANDSONS ?? I SAW THEM HERE ON THE T.V SCREEN ! TELL ME WHERE THEY ARE ! RIGHT NOW !!

- Uhhh... The cop was literally frozen in fear.

- HEY ! Another woman walked up the them, What's going here ?

Yet Grandma didn't even listened to this troll and poked the poor troll's chest with her fingertip in repetition;

- MY FIVE GRANDSONS ARE MISSING. I WANNA KNOW WHO THIS JUNE PERSON IS AND WHAT HAPPENED ON THEIR SHOW !! SO YOU'RE GOING TO ANSWER ME BEFORE I-

- OKAYYY HOLD ON ! A hand pulled her back, Madam you can't talk to the Law like that !

She turned around, facing the troll with light yellow skin and brownish green hair that had stopped the confrontation. Grandma Rosiepuff recalled seeing her before; just there on a poster was her name written in huge letters; the anger of a mother grew bigger in the bottom of her stomach;

- Hold on... YOU'RE the June lady ! She walked up to her, How dare you use my grandsons to perform on your stupid show for money ?? THEY'RE JUST KIDS !

- Okay hold on- actually- June held out a poster, pointing to the small text John Dory had missed earlier, It says here that minors aren't allowed on the talent sh-

- Frankly, my dear, she smiled softly before getting closer to her face, I DON'T GIVE A FLAPJACK FLIPPIN FUCK !

There was a long silence in which Grandma had the time to catch her breathe, and June was questionning her whole existence;

- .... what does that even MEAN- the judge exclaimed out loud.

- I don't know, the baby there probably came up with that-

She pointed to baby Goldie eating a pancake, sitting on a bench close-by. She munched on her food, raising an eyebrow at them;

- ... No, she took her plate and walked away.

- GOLDIEEE !!! WAIT FOR ME !!! GOLDIEGODIEGODIEGODIEGODIE- Baby Lee ran after them to have some of the pancakes.

Baby Jonas was left alone on the bench with baby Tae wrapped in scotchtape. He pushed her off the bench and met Grandma and June's gaze.

- .... You didn't see anythinggg ~~~ He waved his hands around and rolled baby Tae away.

Silence.

- ... ANYWAYS, Grandma got back to the actual situation, YOU KNOW WHERE MY GRANDSONS ARE !

- I DON'T ! I DON'T EVEN KNOW YOUR- wait.... oooooohh...

June slowly stared off into the void, Rosiepuff raised an eyebrow;

- What ?? What does "ooh" means ?

June reached into her hair, taking out a bunch of what looked like none other than CPS papers. The woman looked through the informations gathered in the sheets;

- By any chance... would your grandsons be named... she took a second to read them out loud; Floyd, Uhh... Clay, Spruce.... Branch...

Hearing the familiar names, her green eyes lit up in hope as she snatched the papers. She saw her treasures pictures next to those stupid numbers and let out a cheer;

- Yes ! YES ! These are my babies ! She gave what sounded like a relieve giggle, Wait ... but where did you get these ?

- John Dory gave them to me...

Grandma eyes had stopped on the 12 year old's picture on the sheet as June pronounced his name. She knew they weren't so far anymore ! She shoved the sheets inside of her hair and grabbed the woman's arm to pull her behind her.

- WELL- COME ON WE GOTTA LOOK FOR THEM !!

- Hey hey hey hold on ! I can't just leave !!

She pulled back, making Rosiepuff let go of her arm. The elder raised an eyebrow, genuinelly confused by this reaction;

- Why not ?!

- Because I have a situation of my own ?! June opened her arms wide to show off the entiere police system that had come here at her wish, My ARMADILLO is missing ! One minute, I'm holding her and the next she's taken away from me ! Why do you think all these POLICE are here ?!!

Grandma had to pause for a second as she reflected on her words, thinking about how her babies were just taken away from her... as well as their situation back home where they were also soon to possibly be taken away by the CPS forever.

- I... I'm sorry to hear that, truly, she said to June sincerely.

June said nothing back for a few seconds, deep in thoughts, before sighing and turning back to the worried sick grandmother;

- I'm sorry but- this is a really big situation, you're going to have to until the next cop can help you but right now they're all backed up.

She walked away to go talk to the cops about what had happened, before Grandma, after no hesitation, ran up to her a little;

- W-Wait ! But these are my GRANDSONS, they're practically my CHILDREN !! She explained heartbroken, June stopped on her trail, They're.. they're all I have.. I'm not just gonna- wait this out, they could be anywhere right now and I'm scared of what could be happening to them ! Please.. there must be something we can do.. can't the cops just look for both of them ??

June sighed, thinking about what she had said to that poor woman and how Chloe was important to her too... she wanted to make sure her baby was safe before anything else.

- I'm sorry, she looked away, I would help but.. there's really nothing else I can do for y-

June paused, started to connect certain dots that weren't really accurate. Her expression shifted to a slow process that came to realization;

- Wait a minute... it's all making sense now !

- What? What is ?? Grandma heard her.

- You..

June would then turn on her heels and pointed accusingly at her;

- Your grandsons stole my PRECIOUS CHLOE !!!

Taken by surprise by the sudden untrue calling out, Rosiepuff took a few steps back. June's finger was in her face so she didn't have a choice but lifting her chin up as she tried to reason with her;

- What ?!! Why on earth would they do that ?!

She knew her grandsons; sure, they were challeging, mischevious, messy, careless, dangerous, noisy, dirty, reckless, wild, loud, turbulent, tumultuous, agitated, restless, obstreperous, boisterous, unrestrained, uncontrolled, fierce, bold, untamed, barbaric, uncivilized, impolite, mannerless, dosorganized and most of all chaotic, but she never could imagine them to kidnap an armadillo ! Well again there was the time John Dory stole her fresh baked cookies to feed his younger siblings...

- Well it all adds up doesn't it ?! June stopped her train of thoughts, Chloe goes missing, the next thing I hear is that she was taken away by somebody and now I hear that your GRANDSONS are missing too !

- What would any of that have to do with them ?! She didn't understand where the Judge was coming from.

- Oh I don't know... maybe they got mad that I kicked them off the show so they decided to take her ! She gestured to a picture she had just took out of her hair with the pink critter on it.

- ... Why would you kick them off the show ?

She was shoved the poster in her hands so she could read it while June kept yell her unthought accusation;

- Because MINORS aren't allowed to COMPETE ! She pointed at the rule, That's what I was trying to TELL YOU EARLIER!!

Rosiepuff actually wasn't focus so much on the age restriction, her eyes read over the part where the reward for the talent show winner was placed, she begins to make a realization of her own as she saw the huge numbers of the 10 000$ amount... and her heart dropped.

- They... she felt tears build up, They were trying to get the money... for the pod...

Her babies had been so afraid they would get taken away from her and from each other that, when seeing this talent show, their hearts had told them to travel all the way across the Trolls Tree just to win it and get the money. She knew that this money meant for them only one thing, and it was to stay with her... she felt so happy realizing that John Dory probably didn't think what he said at the pod...

- ... so we wouldn't lose the pod... she breathed out in shock, Oh Johnathan... she knew immediately it had been his idea and sighed in relief.

June's expression had softened, realizing herself maybe her accusation had been too far... BroZone might had been a bunch of crazy kids, but they knew how to love. They wouldn't take Chloe from her knowing how it felt to loose someone you loved.

- ...so they wouldn't lose-

- ... you, June completed, So they wouldn't lose you...

The elder troll sniffled and wipes a few tears away, nodding;

- ...I was gonna say each other, but.. I appreciate that too, she giggled softly.

June slowly nodded while the grandmother took another deep breathe in before handing her back the poster, wiping more tears away before getting on a serious tone of voice;

- Okay, look.. as I said, I can't just stand around here and wait, my grandsons could be anywhere and I need to know that they're safe ! So if you can't help well... I guess that leaves me no choice but ask and risk the CPS... but at least I'll know they are alive...

She slowly took her snailphone out of her hair, about to call the number, but the situation seeming so unfair, June stopped her;

- ...wait !

Rosiepuff stoped and turned to look at her... June placed a hand on her shoulder;

- I'll help you find them, she proposed.

- Really? But- what about-

- Honestly... she looked down for a second, I'd rather be looking for Chloe right now too instead of just waiting around for someone to tell me they found her instead.. and.. I know how you feel, with your grandsons being important to you, they're like your babies.. that's exactly what Chloe is to me !

- Alright then.. Rosiepuff shared a common smile with the lady, then placed her hands on her hips, Where should we look first ?

They looked around- they were so small in a gigantic tree !! Anyone would have felt discouragement;

- Well.. there's honestly a lot of areas that we can search‐ June noticed the obvious.

As both women were questionning themselves on how they would ever find BroZone and Chloe in this giant plant, a troll workinh for the police came ip to them, patting June's shoulder;

- Um, excuse me ? He walked over to both of them, I don't mean to interrupt, but- me and a few other officers recently just got a new lead on where the armadillo might be.

- What?! You did ?! June's eyes lit up with excitement at the mention of Chloe.

- Yes maam, he nodded, come with me ! He started walking away.

June and Rosiepuff exchanged a look at each other before following the cop to wherever he was taking them, hoping the find clues that would lead them to Chloe and the maybe the boys. The cop had eventually lead them away from the building, down between the roots of the tree, to the same area where the brothers had found the same exact clue earlier, which was spit and blood on the ground...

- Spit and.. blood ?

The cop nodded at the celebrity's guess. The trail seems to be leading from the talent show building all the way to... a huge forgotten place; the waterwaste treatment plant was right in front of them.

- We're not completely sure if it's connected, but it's the most evidence we've found so far, the troll that had guided them in this lonely area explained as the team that was there was already taking bunch of pictures for reasearches, and given that the trail started from the building itself we feel it's worth investigating !

- Well.. it's better than nothing! Let's go !

The yellow skinned troll was ready to go and search Chloe herself, she was hold back by her lilac new friend;

- W-Wait! Hold on a second ! Do you.. do you think my Grandsons might be there? They're missing too! There's five of them ! She spoke to the cop, in hope theh might have gotten a clue about trollings missing around this zone.

The cop scratched his chin;

- Well I can't say for certain maam, but I'll notify my partners and we'll keep an eye out for them as we search for Chloe.

Rosiepuff sighed in relief, even more rassured when feeling June's hand on a shoulder confirming she had all of their support now. She was about to thank them properly for their help, until a second cop troll came up to them. He was holding some object tighly in his hand with a protective clothe.

- Hey uh, me and sergeant were doing some more looking nearby and found this... hammer ?

At the mention of hammer, Grandma Rosiepuff's heart jumped. She remembered well that one certain yellow hair trolling would always carry one of these stupid things around; she turned around and her eyes widened as she saw the familiar object in the cop's hand.

- ...that has halfway dried vomit on it-

Well that description just confirmed what she already knew it was. Not waiting a second, she grabbed the hammer and not caring at how gross it was;

- That's... That's CLAY'S HAMMER!!!

She was so excited that she ran up to him and snatched the hammer from him, laughing as she looked at it like it was a precious ancient artifact.

- Oh I've never been so happy to see such a destructive tool in my entire LIFE !! She ignored the cop saying she was contaminating clues.

- Maam- a second cop interrupted the moment; I-I advise you don't- there's VOMIT on- anddd she's hugging it-

Indeed she was, she was hugging the vomit covered hammer tightly to her chest while laughing out her happiness and relief to have find a clue to her little five peachfuzzes. June examinated to hammer from afar, not really wanting vomit on her expensive scarf;

- How can you be sure that's his?

Rosiepuff laughed out loud, looking back at her as she refused to let any cop take this hammer away from her.

- Tsk, honey- I KNOW my grandsons, and my yellow haired devil of a six year old is the only one who would be in ownership of ANY vomit covered hammer ! She gestured to the tool.

- That.. is VERY concerning- June pointed out, but none of my business- at least you have a lead now too !

- I can practically feel them in my arms.. they're closer than ever now ! Rosiepuff confirmed, alright officers... let's get a move on ! June ! We've got five- no, six babies to save !

Both mothers ran into the entrance of the waterwaste treatment plant, off to find who they were looking for.

Meanwhile, on the floor below them and completely invisible in the darkness of the room. Forming a line starting with the oldest in the front and Branch tied up to John's waist with a rope. Spruce and Clay were holding the rope, and Floyd was still snuggled into the turquoise hair of their father figure.

They had been exploiring this nasty and smelly place for maybe something that looked like above 15 minutes and still hadn't found where Chloe could have got taken by Mr.Slush, why here anyway ? It smelled like sh-

- Johhhhnnn, Clay's little voice interrupted the quiet ventilation sound, Can you light up your hairrrrrr...

Clay wasn't that much comfortable in the darkness, reminded of the monsters under his bed that often John Dory would chase for him. Only the oldest brother wasn't in the mood; he had to save this stupid armadillo that had stole their first place.

- Shh ! He quietly sushed him, If we do that we're gonna get spotted !

Clay whimpered and his first reflex was to walk a bit faster to stay close to none other than Spruce. He gripped into the fabric and burried his whole baby face in the day camp t-shirt.

- But I can't see anythinggg !! He explained the reason of his worries.

- HUSH ! Spruce shoved him off, We're sneaking !

Clay made a little complain when his big brother pushed him away from his side in not such a nice way. He stopped his progress on the way and his ears dropped down. Spruce had been treating him this way since the start of this adventure, and he could no longer hide that it did hurt him.

- Why are you always so mean to me !? His little voice reached a higher note as he screamed frustratingly, That's it ! You aren't my friend anymore !

Clay crossed his arms and, pouting, looked over the other way to avoid any eye contact with him. Spruce threw his head backward, came from him a loud, well exaggerated sigh as he turned back to face him. He threw both arms open, his head titled on the side with an annoyed expression. He was acting as if the harsh words that were next to be pronounced were the obvious that a 6 year couldn't catch on;

- We were never friends !

Feeling the words hit his heart as soon as they rang in his ears, the poor little trolling started to slowly tremble as his throat filled with whimpers and soft cries, tears in his eyes coming to join the party as his pupils turned bigger; of course he didn't know how to properly express or explain it in words, but he knew..

His feelings were actually hurt.

Quiet whimpers started to be heard, and Spruce realized he did a mistake. A huge mistake. He made a step forward;

- Oh- Clay- I didn't meant to-

- Guys !! Enough with the banter ! John Dory walked back to them, a bit frustrated because the fight had woken up Floyd, We have to find Chloe, you can hate each other all you want later !

He grabbed Clay's hand to pull him away not noticing the child was genuinely crying. Spruce followed without a word, ashamed.

The group of trollings continued their way in the waterwaste treatment plant area... and it was enormous. Canals were tracing shapes between giant pools filled with dirty water for the most of them. If the little doors would haven been open, the water would have been running under the platforms suspended to the ceiling on which the trolls could walk on. It was dark, but most of all, it smelled like SHIT-

Since the walls were flat and the room was so large et quiet, sounds could easily reverb and be heard around the whole place. That helped the group of children a lot to find what they were searching in this nasty place, because they soon heard voices of two adult trolls, one recognizable as the armadillo thief;

- I hear T-Slush ! Floyd, completely awake pointed.

JD pulled his siblings to hide behind a pipe so they could observe the situation from afar before acting. Chloe was held in a cage, hissing and scratching at the bars. T-Slush was there, he had just gave the pet to a mysterious troll. He had light orange skin and coral's hair mixed with yellow, wearing a causual looking outfit, mostly recognisabled by a hawaiian flower t-shirt. He had sunglasses even if they were in this dark place, yet somehow could still look closely at Chloe;

- So she's really a spotted armadillo, hm? He questionned, because my 7 years old daughter asked for a spotted armadillo !

- Yes ! A pink spotted armadillo, like I promised, Mango !! T-Slush was still holding back into the cage as he without knowing, admitted the name of the client.

Chloe hissed louder, clearly terrified. The trolls spoke for a bit with each other, discussing the price the armadillo would be. Eventually they agreed on a fair amount, and Tony quickly shoved it in his pocket.

- Thank you Mr. Mango Bliss ! He shook his hand with energy, Thank you very much !

As Mango was trying to push him off, Chloe had stopped to struggle... only when spotting John Dory afar from her, she gripped on the bars of the cage, goving him puppy eyes... surprised himself, the trolling felt hid heart start to pinch for the poor creature, and did the most stupid thing he wouldn't even have think of doing if it wasn't out of anger;

- HEY ! He yelled as he walked out of the hiding spot, LET HER GO !! SHE'S NOT YOURS !!

It was too late to go back now. John Dory didn't flinched at Mango and T-Slush turning toward him in one mouvement, Chloe not holding back her begging cries anymore. T-Slush actually recognised him;

- You ? He asked, knowing the bunch of kids that had gave him the idea of capturing the pet.

- I thought we agreed nobody would follow you... Mango glared at the armadillo thief.

T-Slush raised his hands, he had been unaware he had been followed. Kids were way much more discret then adult Trolls and he didn't think they would be stupid enough to follow him there.

- Don't look at me like that man ! She's the one who spitted everywhere ! He gestured at Chloe.

The rest of the brothers had came out of their hiding spot, looking mad and ready to defend Chloe. Seeing more kids the coral hair troll hide the cage behind his back.

- GIVE US BACK CHLOE !! Spruce demanded.

- She's not yours, she's June's friend ! Floyd pointed out.

Seeing even an angry little egg pop in the bunch was weird enough for Mango to finally run, hoping to escape with Chloe never to be seen again. Unlucky him, the brothers had that one thing that, not only made them amazing at being a Boyband, but also amazing at being well, synchronised and in harmony.

John Dory didn't have to speak; almost in a scary way they all nodded at each other; Spruce and Clay took a side and Floyd and John Dory took the other with Branch in his hair. The chase for the armadillo had started.

Spruce and Clay's goal was simple. If they could force Mango to reach the end of a platform, he would have to give them Chloe or, if he was crazy, jump. For that, John Dory and Floyd would be ready to catch Chloe's cage from another platform under the one Mango was taking.

T-Slush had followed, not so sure of what to do; sure he wanted the money, but he also wanted the kids to be safe;

- MANGO WAIT !! He called, yet this was clearly useless, THEY ARE JUST KIDS !!!

Mango only saw trolls would could get the armadillo, call the police, and send him in for some jail time; so he did like predicted, reaching a higher platform above the dirty resting water pools. Seeing the end of the road and how high he was, he was to turn around, only to scream in surprise;

Spruce and Clay were there; one had manage to use his hair to form a punch, the other was spitting and hissing. Mango slowly moved away from there, and let out a yelp when his foot almost slide down into the void in one of the moving waterwaste channel. He looked back at the two trollings and squeezed Chloe's cage against him, analysing what he should do next as he spoke up;

- Okay, okay, Mango nervously chuckled, Hold on boys- let's just calm down for a second—

- Give her to us NOW ! Clay pointed to the pet.

Mango took a second of consideration.. yet he thought back of his daughter, having a huge tantrum once because she hadn't got a pet squirrel— and he just knew he HAD to take this armadillo home.

- What if I make a deal with you ? Trade for trade huh whaddya say ?He gasped, OR! ORRRR! If ya promise not to TELL anyone about this I'll give you whatever you want ! Sound good right ?!

His foot almost slipped again, with Clay and Spruce blocking the way they would have to come to an agreement; Spruce and Clay weren't in the mood to discuss still;

- We don't want ANYTHING from you except the armadillo that YOU STOLE ! Spruce pointed, you either give her back.. or you can say hello to the long fall behind you !

It was maybe 7 meters away from the water down below... it would not actually kill him, neither injure him badly, but that, they didn't know. It only looked dangerous from how big of a fall it was.

Mango would look behind him once more to the long distance from where he was to the ground below, looking back over at them;

- Well.. what's it gonna be? Clay crossed his small arms over his chest with all the serious attitude he could get from 6 years of life.

- ...alright, fine.

-  Huh ? The two brothers got less defensive and stared at him surprised by his words.

- I guess I have no other choice, huh ? Mango walked toward them, holding Chloe's cage, he shrugged; may as well just- hand over the pretty critter...

Chloe looked up at him, surprised herself with one of her little eyebrows raised up. The two heroes looked at each other in confusion of this sudden change of attitude, Spruce shook his head and reached out for the cage;

- ...well then, great- you can give her here !

Mango nodded, and adjusted his arm before walking over to the boys ever so slowly. Chloe's paw reaching toward Spruce in hope to finally be saved.

- That was easy... Clay mumbled as he took Chloe's cage and opened it.

-... yeah no kidding, Spruce mumbled back, C'mon Chloe, you're safe ! He encouraged the critter.

But as they were petting Chloe and rassuring her that it was over and everything was okay... Mango smirked to himself seeing them distracted in their quiet conversation, moving to the side of Clay... at first you would think he was trying to escape, but the troll had something else in mind... lucky for the brothers, Chloe had noticed him, and eyes widening, she growled back at him so the trollings would notice him;

- I mean hey, at least we'll be able to get out of here quicke-

Out of nowhere, Mango would hook his foot around clay's leg and pushed him off of the ledge.

-... or you can try !

The poor six year old didn't even have time to react as he was immediately subjected to his near demise, sliding off the platform. Mango had the time to reach for Chloe because the armadillo bite into the child's wristband to try hold him back from falling... yet he was too heavy for her, and she had to let go, now being held by the angry client.

- NO- NONO- AAAAAAAHHHHH !!!

- CLAY !!! Spruce reached.

Spruce immediately slided on his stomach across the platform to quickly grab his brother's small hand before he fell in the crazy water, but while he held him back, he found himself sliding too far;

- AH AAAH- he was quick enough to grab onto the edge with his other hand.

Clay was holding tightly into Spruce's grip. He was breathing in quickly as he was being held above the moving water;

- S-SPRUCE ! He cried out, trying not to look down in his panicked state.

- DON'T WORRY I GOTCHA, I-I GOTCHA, Spruce said in a calm, yet trembling voice, JUST T-TRY AND STAY CALM !

There was a laugh, and Mango soon was towering them, holding the armadillo under his arm, his shadow covering the end of the platform. The two brothers' eyes widened in fear, holding tightly into it. A bit under, on another platform, John Dory and Floyd were standing, yelling for their siblings to hold on.

- Sorry boys, maybe you shouldn't have gotten in my way and stayed in a child's place, hm ?

- HELP US ! Spruce begged him.

He could feel his fingers sliding off little by little as he gave all his strenght just to hold on into the platform. Mango moved closer, for a second you almost thought he would help them... until instead, he smashed his heel on Spruce's fingers, earning a scream of pain from the 9 year old trolling.

- STOP ! A familiar voice yelled from the other platform, none other than John Dory, DON'T HURT THEM ! P-PLEASE !

He was their father, and these were his babies, and this troll was threatening what he had most precious in this world, tears dared to fall off the 12 year old's cheeks.

- LET THEM GO ! Floyd added in a little voice.

But Mango did not cared a single bit about what would happen to these trollings- he had his armadillo, and that was all he needed ! He turned around and then- well he almost jumped out of his skin when he noticed a little blue troll egg standing there and blocking the way.

- WHU- WHERE DID YOU CAME FROM ?? ARGH- GOD why are there so MANY OF YOU !! GET OUT OF MY WAY !!!

But Branch, as you know after 38 749 words, doesn't listen to anyone- even less when the troll had stole what they were trying to save. Baby fetus Branch was ANGY, and so, he stomped on the floor to make him undertsand he was FURIOUS.

- Branch ?? Floyd realized, What is he doing up there?

- I thought I told you to watch over him ! John Dory realized.

The angry bunny-like stomping looked completely ridiculous to the armadillo kidnapper who couldn't help but giggle at this view. Chloe was as well completely lost;

- Seriously ? Mango tilted his head, That's all you got to defend you? An angry fetus ? He questionned Spruce and Clay that were still holding into the platform.

- Oh they got more than that !

Another troll had appear behind Branch; blue light skin and colorful cold colored hair gave away T-Slush identity. Floyd was the only one to shout in victory from the other platform.

- Now, GIVE US the ARMADILLO ! He demanded.

- Oh yeah, NOT gonna happen Tony !

Mango, frustrated, gave an angry scream, and tried to pass by him. Everytime T- Slush blocked the way, and it was hard to hit anyone while holding an angry armadillo !

- Then I guess us moving out of the way isn't gonna happen EITHER ! Right baby Branch ?

Mango glared at the egg, Branch was still blocking the way along with the Slushie seller. Mango frowned, ready to pass by him;

- Bring it on, eggie...

That was his cue. Both ran at the same time, but as Mango thought he was finally going to make it, Branch slided underneath his legs to his other side !

- Hey !! The troll almost lost his balance, What the-

... And well deserved, Branch kicked the sh*t out of his back knee.

- AAOWWW !! Mango howled in pain, letting go of Chloe as he flingned her in the air and fell to his knee.

Everyone gasped in shock as Chloe fell off the platform as well. Clay did not hesitated;

- SPRUCE !! SWING ME OVER TO THE RIGHT A BIT !!

Spruce nodded and immediately did what he was told as Clay held one arm out to catch Chloe in it. It worked, the trolling catched June's pet in his arm and held her tight and close;

- GOT HER ! He cheered, Chloe licking his cheek as a thank you.

Still under them, their other siblings cheered out loud, glad Chloe was now saved.

- YAAAAYYYY !! Floyd was clapping his small hands.

- YEAH !! THAT'S WHAT I'M TALKIN ABOUT !! John Dory cheered, NICE ONE CLAY !!

Chloe squealed in fear and snuggled in her savior's arms as she noticed they were still hanging their best to the platform.

- It's okay! Clay rassured as he held her tighter and looked up at Spruce with a smile, We got you !

Spruce smiled back at him, actually cheering when Branch reached the edge and, even useless, give them hope they would get help. T-Slush just had to pass by Mango to help them now !

- UGHHHH NOOOOO!!! Mango stood up, apprently not happy with this ending, GIVE ME THAT ARMADILLO !!!

- Never ! Spruce refused, Try pulling us up and I'll BITE your hand clean off !

- Uh, maybe don't do that or we'll all die— Clay reminded him.

- And you can't push us down either or else none of us will get her !!

He, of course, was talking about Chloe still being held by Clay. Mango scrunches his face before scoffing, turning back to T-Slush who looked very angry with him as he waited for Mango to leave.

- Well.. looks like no one is gonna be going anywhere then... he slowly turned back to Spruce, Clay and Chloe hanging off the edge.

Understanding what he wanted to do, T-Slush's eyes widened in fear;

- Hey man, this has gone way too far ! Let 'em go already !

- I-I CAN'T SWIM !! Clay added in realization.

- I'm not letting ANYONE go ANYWHERE until I GET MY ARMADILLO !

The man was furious and out of rational thoughts. As the two adults were discussing [well mostly T-Slush was attempting to convince Mango not to throw them both in the dirty water] Spruce had enough time to think to himself while Mango was yelling at the troll who had originally wanted to sell him the pet... how could they get out of there ? Then suddenly the purple haired young troll looked over at his older sibling, John Dory, who was clueless on what to do as he peeks from the other platform, meeting gaze with his brother.

- JOHN DORY ! Spruce called, HEY, HEADS UP!

- Wha-? He raised an eyebrow.

- ... and what do you think YOU'RE doing ?!? Mango turned around.

- Spruce ?! Clay felt his heart drop.

- Hold on tight to Chloe okay ? He gave him a rassuring, sad smile.

- Wait, he held tighter, Wait, what are you—

Spruce grunted as he, using all of his strength, pulled up Clay and Chloe's weight and starts swinging them side to side... At that moment, John Dory then caught on on what he was about to do and pushed Floyd out of the way to prepare himself to catch them.... unfortunately, Mango did not needed much to understand as well;

- Hey.. HEY !! YOU BETTER— He suddendly was stopped by T-Slush grabbing into his arm, YOU, LET GO OF ME !

- SPRUCE ?! Clay called louder.

- HANG ON !! Spruce gave more powerful swings.

Mango got free from T-Slush's grip and was about to stop them;

- Give her TO ME-

But before Mango could come anywhere close to grabbing them, Spruce immediately swung Clay and Chloe into the air toward John Dory's direction. Floyd covered his eyes, scared while in instinctive reaction, John Dory immediately quickly ran to his little brother and the kidnapped critter's aid and catches them in his arms before they could crash on the safe platform.

Clay eventually opened his blue eyes, still squeezing Chloe in his arms. He then realized that John Dory was the one hugging him tightly, rassured he got him back and safe.

- Don't worry, I g-got you ! John Dory was sobbing, rocking him against his chest as he had fell on his knees.

- John !! Floyd ! Clay hugged them tightly in relief.

- It's okay, I got you brother..and armadillo! He noticed Chloe and giggled.

The critter was trembling in Clay's arms but was able to offer him a weak and small purr with a smile, showing that she was thankful. Spruce, now not having to hold Clay back, smiled to them before using both of his arms to try and pull himself up to safety.

But before he could, he felt the same pain come back on his hand as Branch was pushed out of the way; Mango had once again smashed his heel on his fingers and this time, was forcing him to let go.

- OW ! OOWWW !

- NO !!! T-Slush yelled as he catched Branch, not having the time to stop Mango.

But it was too late, because Mango had released Spruce and let him fall to his doom.

- SPRUUUUUUCEEEEEE !!!!!!! Clay reached his hand out for him.

Spruce fell in the water, and soon dissapeared from their view as he was being carried away by the current.

- NOO !!! Floyd started tearing up and panting, S-SPRUCE !!!

John Dory was the most shocked as he felt his breath get trapped in his throat

- No... he ran toward the edge, no no NO NO NO !!!!

There was no trace of Spruce anymore, and the only logical assumption was that he was... Spruce was...

- ... THAT WAS MY BROTHER !!! John Dory roared up at the one that had just throwed his brother off the platform.

He couldn't believe it, he couldn't understand that this troll was so horrible he could just throw his brother in this crazy water ! Floyd was sobbing out loud next to him, calling him what he trully was;

- ... y-you monster !!...

Mango rolled his eyes;

- Oh children, it was so simple.. all you had to do was give her to me, and your precious brother would still be here !

T-Slush still being behind him, he angrily glared at him, Mango noticed him and rolled his eyes once again, annoyed, but somehow threatening;

- So now, now are you going to give her to me or not...

T-Slush was shocked, no, he was disgusted. He felt his breathing get heavier, his face scrunched up as he  started to grow angry and forming balls with his fists...

- ...you just crossed the line now buddy boy...

- Oh, did I ? Wow, that definitely was what I was trying not to do!

- Now you and your.... fetus... he gestured to Branch that was hiding behind his leg, You're gonna wanna move out of the way, Dada slushy.. unless you wanna be next...

- Oh.. that's not gonna happen—

Next thing you knew, Tony our beloved had punched him in the face which sends him flying back;

- ARGH- the coral troll fell near the edge, shaking his head to stop the blurriness and tried to climb back up until Tony steps on his hand as well, OW !!

- This seem familiar at all ? T-Slush raised an eyebrow, Mango yelped when he placed more pressure on his fingers.

Branch, terrified, rushed away to slide on a pipe and join the rest of his siblings; down on the other platform, unaware of what was going on, the other brothers were screaming Spruce's name above the water.

- NO... NO SPRUCE !!! S-SPRUCE !!! He was crying and hyperventilating as he contemplated throwing himself over the edge.

- H-HEY, NO, STOP THAT ! John Dory, worried sick, quickly wrapped his arms around him and pulled him back.

- NO NO ! WE HAVE TO GO GET HIM WE HAVE TO GO GET HIM WE HAVE TO !! The yellow haired trolling whimpered while squirming in his arms, S-SPRUUUUCEEEEE !! WAA–AAAHHHH !!!

It wasn't just a baby crying, that was a full on scream of pain.

JD was doing his best to calm him down, holding him tightly and rocking him. He looked over at Floyd who is staring in fear, fear not only for Spruce but even his own brother that seemed like he was loosing his sanity. Chloe had even hide under a pipe not so far from there.

John Dory had no choice but to place Clay sitting on the ground, forcing him to stay there because the kid was just trying to run pass him to go back at the end of the platform.

- Cl- Clay stop ! You gotta calm down ! I'll go search for Spruce ! I promise, but please, breathe !

- I WANT SP-SPRUCE ! he sobbed out loud.

- I know, I know ! I want Spruce back too ! He held back his sob to not scare Clay even more, Floyd ! He then looked behind him.

- Y-Yes ?

The toddler with pink hair was holding Branch's egg, their youngest brother having join them. He joined their side, and John Dory spoke to him;

- I need you to stay with Clay, Chloe and Branch ! I'm gonna go save Spruce !

- B-But-

- Listen, he held into his shoulder; I need you to be a big boy for me right now okay..? I need you to watch Clay and make sure he doesn't hurt himself, can you do that for me ?

Floyd, somehow even if he was that small, looked down a bit looking scared but then looks back up at him and nodded; John Dory had no other choice but ask him this big boy task since T-Slush was busy kicking Mango's ass.

- Thank you, buddy... his brother kissed his forehead before carefully encouraging Clay to go in his arms, I'll be back, I promise !

- Okay... he mumbled, hugging Clay tightly.

Now rassured that Clay was being watch, John Dory got up and ran off to a ladder, slidding down of it to reach the side of the waterwaste channel. Clay was still crying while watching John run and whined Spruce's name constantly while trying to follow him...

- C-Clay..! Floyd held onto him tightly and squeezed him gently.

Even if Clay knew Floyd wouldn't be able to hold him back, he stopped and waited. He still was Floyd's big brother after all.

Back at T-Slush, he looked furious, hesitating to actually let him go. Mango had grabbed into his leg so he wouldn't fall;

- UGH ! Don't you- TONY ! He screamed at him.

- WOAH- AH- T-Slush fell on his bottom as Mango held onto his leg.

That made the crazy man laugh out loud;

- IF I'M GOING DOWN, SO ARE YOU !

T- Slush stared at him then looks at his free leg then back at him;

- ... Nah... ima do my own thing...

- Wait, was that a Spider-man ref— AAH !!!

T-Slush then kicked Mango in the face with his free leg which causes him to shout in pain and let go of his leg, falling to his demise as well, head first.

Tony finally stood up as he watches him fall then looks to where the boys are and, taking the same pipe as Branch, runs to them to join them.

- Where's John Dory ?! He was worried about his real best client.

- He.. he went to save Spruce !! Floyd said, not moving away when Tony would pet his hair while he was still holding into Clay with his head resting on his chest, But.. I-I can't see him anymore !!

T-Slush did not wanted to assume the worst, but still looked down and mumbled a weak "Oh no.."

Their eyes searched for the two missing brothers as they waited for one of their heads to come out of the water... and secretely, each was worried that none of them would. When their hopes were about to go, a blue hand came out of the water, reaching for oxygen. Clay gasped in shock and pointed to it, while Floyd cheered;

- THERE !!

JD poked his head out of the water as he sputtered and coughed out loud, holding none other than Spruce who was unconscious on his side as he attempts to swim out of the dirty water. Tony felt his heart jump in joy and relief as he gathered the group;

- Come on ! Let's go help them !

They took the ladder, T-Slush helping the kids to get down with his hair, then afterward, joined John Dory and Spruce, helping to pull them out of the brown water.

- Are you alright ?! T-Slush kneeled down next to John still holding his sibling.

- I-I'm fine... He then looked down at Spruce who was still unconcious in his arms.

He was not moving, not breathing.

- Spruce... John layed him on the ground, Spruce !... Come on... come on, get up ! He said while shaking him.