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The teensies are stewing over their scroll for a little too long to Rayman's liking.He bounds over to them, curious to peer over their shoulders, but respectful enough not to."Is there a problem?" he asks instead. The king looks surprised if anything, hands the scroll to his companion."It's a letter from Ly," he explains. Rayman is visibly curious, if slightly worried. "Is there a problem?" he asks again, more cautious this time. To his relief the king shakes his head. "She writes that she won't be joining the upcoming games. Prefers to keep an eye on the pirates instead.""That's…" Rayman pauses. "Understandable."Albeit with disappointment, Rayman has to admit that having Ly as a watchful eye over the tournament gives him ease."She'll be sending in her charge though." "Little Tily?" Rayman had not had the pleasure of meeting with her yet, but from what he's heard the fairy is rambunctious.  "Yes," the king replies and casts a silent side eye to the other teensy by his side who shrugs and takes the moment to snatch the crown, so he can wave the scroll he's been holding at Rayman with a little more panache.  "Tell me again, why we're doing this? It seems like too great a risk. Especially with the offer coming, you know. From him."Rayman scratches the back of his head uneasily."I get you," he replies, "I really do. But as Ly says, this environment will keep him out in the open. If Razorbeard is up to something, we'll be the first to know." The teensy scratches his head with concern. Notices that the crown is gone again."We'll do it!" The other one perks beside him, now presumably in charge. "Razorbeard claimed that he wants to participate as well! And bring his wife - whatever that means. He'll be an open book to us and be in no position to give orders or scheme, just so long as we can keep him busy." Rayman ponders this."With Polokus awake he won't dare to try anything." Not if he was going to bring his wife. Unless there was trouble in paradise as they say. "And if so, I'll be here to intervene the second he does." The other teensy still looks concerned, but he's not currently calling the shots."Brother," the king says, "Yes, we must be cautious, but we can't ignore a chance for peace. Wouldn't you agree, Rayman?" The Limbless himself is momentarily stumped when he's directly addressed and makes a hesitant sound at first.If he were entirely honest, he could have done without seeing another robo-pirate again for the rest of his life and be happy. Seeing Razorbeard himself again was entirely too soon.  But he did like the idea of a friendly competition! The teensies were beginning to take note of his hesitation and Rayman offered a shrug and a wry grin in return."I'm just so used to trashing robots, I'll need to learn pulling my punches." "No need for that," a new voice pipes up and Rayman turns to see Murfy arriving with a huge bag of luggage that he unceremoniously dumps in front of the king. "I just finished prepping these with Ly," he says, "Soft Ammos. They'll cause no structural damage whatsoever and won't kill. Each of them is infused with green lums energy."Murfy upturns the bag and a convolut of little metallic squares spills over the marble. Rayman steps a little closer to examine some of the glyphs, but as he picks one up, it begins spinning wildly and disintegrates with a puff of sparks. He can't put a finger on it, but the feeling is not unfamiliar to getting a new power. Except a lot weaker. These are not designed to last long."Murfy!" he trills, "This is-" 
"-Amazing!" 
Someplace else Razorbeard nearly topples from his chair as he cackles with mad delight."Naive fools, the bunch of them. They won't know what hit them." "Hum," a brighter voice chimes next to him.The soft clinking of porcelain gets interrupted as Razorwife tries to level with her husband."Am I to understand that our vacation plans are set?" "Yes of course," Razorbeard replies proudly, "A whole world to lay at your feet."The other robot hums appreciatively before she sips her oil."But isn't that the same place you failed to conquer last time, dear?" Razorbeard fumbles for words."It'll be different this time," he says eventually."I'm prepared. I've studied them. 1000 will analyze their methods and hit them when they're at their weakest. AND THEN I'LL GET TO CRUSH RAYMAN!!!!!" 
"Dear," the other robot leers over the rim of her cup with warning.
"We've talked about this." Razorbeard clears his throat and forces a semblance of composure. "I'm sorry, darling," he apologizes, "But it will be different this time."And that's why Razorbeard is not getting that parrot he keeps asking about. Razorwife stops stirring her oil, lets out a sigh. "I do worry," she says, "Please don't use our vacation to live out some crazy feud. Again." "Why," Razorbeard draws in a feigned gasp, "I would never!" A knock on the cabin door draws both of their attention. The female model moves to retreat for a more comfortable spot while Razorbeard calls his visitor in."You better have a good reason for interrupting my private time!" "Admiral, Sir, I am so sorry," the Henchman apologizes with a deep bow, before getting to the news without stealing more of his captain's valuable time."The ship is ready."

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

"Welcome to the Olumspics"Murfy visibly cringes hearing that."Really? That's what we're going with?"The teensy next to him shrugs."Globox was very proud of the theming."  Their guests don't seem to be too bothered. Razorbeard struts down the plank with an ego outgrowing his size as two Henchman flank his sides like he's expecting to be ambushed. And by the way Murfy witnesses Rayman's hands curl into fists, there might be every reason for it, too. "It's disgusting what you made off this rock since I've been gone," Razorbeard snarks like he owns the place."Yah," Rayman grunts lowly, "Just peachy, seeing you again.""Oh!" a new voice chirps up and a new robot brushes past the plank."You must be Rayman?" the… female Razorbeard implores. Rayman quirks a terrified brow. By Polokus!They're multiplying! "You're the only one without limbs, of course you must be!" The… lady prattles on, waving off her own assumption before she walks up to Rayman to grab his hand and pulls it close. Rayman freezes on the spot as she begins shaking it excitedly."I've heard SO MUCH about you, why, I'm almost jealous." Rayman feels helpless as his hand gets put through the wringer, chances a glance at Razorbeard past the… uh… excuse for hair.For better or for worse Razorbeard looks just as stumped, and when he realizes Rayman is looking at him offers a sheepish shrug.

While Razorbeard and his Henchmen have been keeping to themselves a lot (Murfy tried to sneak in to make sure what they were doing was all in good sportsmanship - he has yet to return), Rayman has been keeping his eyes on the female Razorbeard model wandering about freely. If he's honest with himself, Rayman is… unsure what to make of what he's seeing. He's been watching from the sidelines, not paranoid enough to eavesdrop but worried enough to chance a glance every now and then. When he catches the tension falling from Tily's shoulder and the two of them exchanging a heartfelt laugh… he feels kind of bad. Not because he's suspicious but… no, that's precisely it. Rayman takes a deep breath and approaches the two."Ladies," he introduces himself, tries for a charming smile, "Did I just miss a fantastic joke?"Tily is still holding her belly while she snorts with laughter and slaps Rayman on the back in good-natured excitement."This one is a riot!" she cries out in good fun, "I can't wait to introduce her to Ly!" Rayman catches the way that statement unsettles him.Not only because Ly is busy running safety checks and he knows she's probably less a fan of robots than him-But Tily has spent a lot of time with her mentor, arguably more than Rayman (he's NOT jealous) and he knows he should trust her judgment- (he just thinks she's young and lacks the experience) His smile cracks slightly but ultimately he manages to keep it up. None of them seem to notice his predicament and Razorwife continues to trill with honest, non-menacing laughter."Oh, I'd be delighted to meet her. She seems like such a good role model from what you told me." Rayman's eyebrow shoots through the roof."What exactly did you tell her?" He cuts off Tily as she's about to respond. The mood goes cold and now it's the robot who gives Rayman a scrutinizing look."Young man," she admonishes, "Let the little one talk."Rayman is flabbergasted."I'm… sorry?"  Rayman wasn't sure what the understanding of a good role model was to… this madame, who'd chosen to spend her life with Razorbeard, but it's beginning to paint a bigger picture. It's just... blurry still.He clears his throat."I mean that. Pardon, Tily." "It's okay," the fairy replies, though she senses the shift in mood, "Hey, I can give you two a minute if you want."Rayman gazes at her wearily, but Razorwife encourages her 'good idea'. Rayman feels his stomach drop as he's left alone with the robot."Mr. Rayman," Razorwife begins and Rayman raises a placating hand almost immediately."Just… Rayman. Please.""Rayman," she adjusts with a nod, "I get that my husband and you have a complicated history. I was modeled after him, I know that can be... uncanny." That gives Rayman pause. And guilt. He offers a subtle bow in apology. Can't bring himself to say anything. Razorwife tilts her head."If you're so uncomfortable, why did you agree to do this?" she asks, honestly confused. She remembers the way her husband called them fools for doing so.Rayman isn't sure he can answer that honestly. Not yet.He can not yet separate a mere civilian guest on an opposing sports team from a hostile invader and the thought rattles him with icy clarity."We thought Razorbeard would come regardless even if we said no," Rayman tries to answer somewhat confidently. That's how classic invasions work, after all. It wouldn't be the first time.He shifts wearily, scratches the back of his head."If he's giving us a heads up, we figured it would be better to... be prepared." Razorwife is quiet. Rayman wishes she would say something. Then she springs to life almost unexpectedly."Well!" she nearly screams, "I'm here to have a good time. And nothing else. When is the next track ready? Your shrines are absolutely beautiful by the way! My husband has no taste, don't pay any mind to what he's saying." Rayman breathes a sigh of relief, feels a slight laugh bubble in his chest at the robot's antics. "How did you two meet?" Rayman can't help but ask. The difference in their personalities, now that he can see it, is just so… jarring."Oh?" Razorwife asks, like such a question had never even occurred to her. "Meet?" she ponders, like the very concept was weird, "He had me made." The robot says like it's the most common thing and Rayman feels everything fall into place. It sheds a new light on Razorbeard too, that Rayman is not yet sure what to make of. "I'm sorry," he says again. No wait, that might be coming off wrong- "For my behavior," he adds hastily. He reaches out a hand, offering it this time."I'll try to do better." Razorwife is easily pleased with that promise and Rayman can't help but wonder - with pity, not malice - if it's an intentional part of her design.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

"I'm here, I'm here, I'm here-"Globox comes sprinting towards Rayman as he's strolling across the area, waiting for Murfy's report and mulling over his recent encounter. "Am I too late? Did you start yet? It took me forever to find a babysitter…s with half the Glade wanting to participate."Rayman chuckles at his antics. Even so, Globox probably found more sitters than there are participants, but he doesn't point it out."You're fine," he says, "I was surprised you wanted to partake though," Rayman admits honestly, "What gives?" Globox chuckles excitedly, "It's my one chance to feel like you!" He says."Oh?" Rayman quirks a curious eyebrow."You know, fighting against robots! But without the risk attached! I figured, maybe this way I can conquer my fear." Rayman has to admit that makes a whole lot of sense. The environment is controlled and safe enough that nothing-
"Rayman!" 
It's Murfy."You're back!""Yes, well. I was at the pirates' like you asked!" Murfy begins immediately, "They were reviewing the tracks and claimed they were boring.""Boring?"Murfy nods."They say they want obstacles. Have some that are ready to be set up. Razorbeard already sent out a squad to modify the tracks. There was nothing I could do."Rayman tenses."Is anyone supervising them?"Murfy shakes his head."I figured you might wanna take a look yourself.""You bet I do!" Rayman announces, then turns to Globox, "Come along!"The frog, still thrilled to be here, is excited about seeing the tracks for the first time. Rayman figures he'll have a less biased opinion.  At least one of his suspicions is correct. Rayman stands at the sides scratching his chin as Globox goes for an unabashed test ride and nearly runs into what looks like a dangerous electric grid - BUT he dodges.With an absolutely thrilled "This is fuuuuuun!" nonetheless as he goes down a riverbank. Razorbeard stands next to Rayman, surprisingly placid. The robot's arms are crossed behind his back in a way that leaves him completely open to an attack if Rayman so chooses and the Limbless can't help but figure it a trap. Razorbeard's eyes are glinting when he looks up at Rayman and if his model could be any more expressive Rayman guesses the smirk he's being given would be nasty. "Say it," the little robot drones.Rayman feels his brow wrinkle at the audacity, then Globox passes them again, activating a button that hadn't been there before to make a platform spring up and alleviate him to a shortcut. Rayman watches his friend pass them by with an excited holler… and caves.He glances down at Razorbeard and loosens his tight stance a bit."These are fine," he grinds out, still reluctant. His answer comes across kind of rude, given the fun Globox is having, so with a sigh and a sheepish scratch behind his head he adds, "Kind of impressive too."His voice is still listless, but hey, he's putting in enough effort by extending some praise. The little robot jumps with excitement and it catches Rayman off guard to see the little devil in such a… chipper mood."Eat your words! I'm gonna send out the crew to modify the other tracks!"Rayman scoffs, tries to go with the flow."I can't wait to send you flying through one of those grids," he jests mischievously and Razorbeard pauses momentarily; looks at him with purpose. It gives Rayman the creeps. "I bet you would."

"What's your take on all this?"Rayman seems thoughtful as he ponders the question."The teensies chose to agree on it and Globox is really excited.""I know," Ly says as she bumps the scroll with Tily's report against Rayman's hair, "But I asked about your opinion."Rayman's face pulls into a telling scowl and Ly deflates. She stops her meditating hover and lets her feet touch the ground to stand beside him. "I thought I was confident before," Rayman says, "But now that Razorbeard is actually here I... feel so on edge. The ammo you prepped with Murfy for the arena is safe, but it's like he's baiting me to slip up outside a match."Rayman's fists are flexing nervously, he's so tense that he barely notices when Ly dislocates his torso and plops it next to her on a fallen tree."Sit," she says and after Rayman looks over his figurative shoulder the rest of his body parts pad over to reconnect with his core. When everything is back in place, his entire posture sags. "I'm with you on this," Ly says, "I don't like how they just up and changed what we had prepared, but you can't give Razorbeard a reason to retaliate. Be the bigger person."Rayman scoffs."With Razorbeard that really shouldn't be this hard." He was after all, rather on the short side.Rayman feels Ly scuffing him in the side and when he turns to look at her he can't help but smile. "If anyone can do it, it's you. Don't forget you got all of us in your corner.""Really?" Rayman chuckles, "I thought you've been supervising! Haven't you seen Globox go at it in that trial run?"Rayman laughs. When Ly joins in, it helps to make him feel infinitely better.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Rayman is the first on the scene, doing warm-ups as he watches the competitors trickle in.Ly had suggested he should get some rest. Needless to say, that... hadn't worked out. The roster is… fairly small all things considered. A couple of his kids have followed Globox in to cheer him on but aside from that spectators are rare. Ly had insisted on a low profile to avoid distractions, both for smoother management and to reduce chaos on the field. Rayman's attention drifts back to the robots. A group of Teensies is currently handing out silver lums - a magic blockade for the robots' built-in weaponry that will instead give them the blessing to hold onto purple lums.  Rayman can't help but feel tense as he watches them.  "Test, test," Murfy's voice resonates among the area and Rayman looks up expectantly."Welcome competitors! My name is Murfy and I will guide you through this spectacle! Any questions about the ins and outs you can bring up with me by the Murfy Stone at the harbor camp." Murfy's introduction is lengthy but extensive. Some of the robots look bored as he introduces the different race tracks and their unique quirks (post-modification) and Rayman does his best to soak up the info he's getting.The pirates' attention only seems to perk when the battle arenas get introduced, and rightfully so.  Rayman is thankful that they haven't gotten the opportunities to mess with their gravesites and shrines and instead just fiddled with the race tracks and offered to hold some races on the ship they brought-It's almost as though they hadn't considered sparring to be part of the activities, to begin with. Which is kind of ironic to Rayman if he's honest. "The first round will be a free for all," Murfy continues to explain, "After that, we'll pair groups of four to each pit against each other in a race and the arena. First race will be held at noon! Popolopoï!" Murfy's voice goes silent and Rayman sidles up to the racing line where the other participants are gathering."Popolopoï," he offers to Globox as he positions himself next to the frog. "What does that even mean?" Razorbeard grinds as he pushes up next to Rayman. The Limbless regards him with caution, but to his relief, the tension he expects isn't coming back. The excitement for the experimental speedrun won't be dulled. "It means 'Good Luck' in Sportsmanship," Rayman explains almost jokingly, "I'm not surprised you didn't know that.""Yes," Razorbeard drones, "Where I come from we say spring a rivet!""Sounds painful!" Globox adds from beside Rayman."Usually lots of rivets DO spring!" Razorbeard supplies and Globox gulps intimidated."Boy!" the frog whimpers, "I'm glad I don't HAVE rivets!" "Actually," a teensy adds as he rides to the starting line on the shoulders of a companion, "The Popolopoï is a butterfly, too. We'll be introducing them for a special kind of race tomorrow."Razorbeard scoffs with curiosity and Rayman keeps his eyes pinned on him."A special kind of race?""Yeah," Rayman replies, trying to not sound too patronizing."You wanted to have hurdles and traps; we make races interesting with challenges. Now we get both.""Fine then!" Razorbeard snaps after thinking for just a second, "I'm not intimidated by your challenges!" The butterflies on the other hand were stress-inducing. Pesky crawly insects. "Everyone ready?" the teensy asks and Razorbeard whistles loudly (a sound that reminds Rayman of a forgotten tea kettle). Not soon after the little robot is flanked by a henchman.The sight of which is so familiar that when Rayman stretches and gets into position for the race to start, he almost misses it."Wait," he says, leering down on Razorbeard, "Where's the other model?"When Razorbeard looks up at him, his eyes are positively gleaming with mischievous energy."What other model?" Rayman bristles at the robot, his fists curling subconsciously."Tily is busy right now, too," the Teensy tries to mediate, "The robots can join whenever they want.""Yes," Rayman amends, "That's true, but it's not the point!" "Can we start the race now, or what? I don't wanna get rusty just standing around!"Rayman is tempted to dip out and look for the absentee, but leaving Razorbeard out of his sight seems like the even worse option! With grit teeth and a scowl aimed at the little pirate, Rayman reluctantly gets into starting position, his eyes aimed straight ahead. As the countdown begins to tick, Rayman hears Razorbeard chuckle next to him and swears to himself, he's gonna ruin this bot's whole career.

During the race, Rayman lets himself fall back intentionally a couple of times, both to let Globox take the lead and build some confidence and almost more importantly so he can keep his eyes on Razorbeard.  The little guy lags almost comically behind, using his Henchman as trap fodder and a springboard in a mud pit.  The two of them are almost comically inept to the point where during the second lap, Rayman doesn't feel bad leaving them in the dust. What he does almost feel bad about is how easy it is for him to catch up with Globox. The frog has had a good headstart but needs a lot more stamina if he wants to do well in the competition."Are you doing alright, buddy?" Rayman asks as he eases his pace to jog next to Globox who’s wheezing and nearly dragging his gut on the floor."This was- a mis- take!" he insists.Rayman pulls him up and tugs him along a bit."I'll give you some tips when you pass through this lap," he tries to encourage the frog."Come on, you can do it!" By default, with everyone ignoring them, the teensies would have wound up winning that round if it had been considered viable. Rayman pulls Globox aside, a little closer to another track, but not too close to the starting line as to intimidate him. The Water Canyon has some freshwater for Globox to revitalize and Rayman conjures a pair of red lums from his own stamina to share."Are you sure?" Globox asks before Rayman hands them over with an encouraging nod and Globox feels better almost immediately.  "That was embarrassing," Globox sighs, "I couldn't even finish the third lap.""You'll get better eventually. This competition is just for fun. Nothing's at stake." Globox is quiet and sags against the wall where he can get a bit of the waterfall's drizzly spray."Then why do you treat Razorbeard like that?" That catches Rayman off guard and he flinches despite himself. Globox hasn't partaken in the fine… politics surrounding this event. "You… noticed?""Sure did," Globox says as he tries to calm his racing heart, "I bet everyone does."Rayman goes still, his hand hovers in front of himself with uncertainty, his eyes skit over the place. "Do we need to be worried?" Globox asks, sitting a little straighter."I…" Rayman isn't sure how to reply. He wishes he knew the honest answer to that question too."I hope not."Globox's expression falls and Rayman immediately begins to double down."Don't let that ruin your fun. Let Razorbeard be my problem. I can handle it-""You should be competing honestly," Globox says, stands up and pulls Rayman into a tight hug, "And not have to worry about Razorbeard.""I know," Rayman says, his voice thin against Globox's chubby embrace, "But I can't."Razorbeard has hurt so many people. So many.  Globox especially. Rayman just can't let that repeat."I should go back now," he says. He's lost sight of the robot for too long, and it eats at him."No, you don't," Globox insists and hugs him a little tighter. Rayman mutters against the large frog but what he says gets drowned entirely."What was that?" Globox says and tugs Rayman's head off."You stink of cheese!" Rayman repeats.Globox laughs. Rayman tries to pluck himself free and when Globox notices he swings the both of them into the nearest pool of water.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

"Welcome back, everyone!" Murfy's excited voice rings across the harbor. "I am sure all of you used your time wisely to prepare for this moment as the first games are about to staaaaart!"
 
The fly himself drops in to greet the participant and a couple of spectators (mostly Globox's kids). A small group of teensies points the participants to the relevant portal door like they're wanting to sell you something. Globox waves at his younglings before walking through, followed shortly by Rayman and Razorbeard, gesturing at each other animatedly, and a Henchman 800 model at the rear.
 
"Furthermore," Murfy continues once the contestants have disappeared in the portal, his voice nearly falling to a flat mutter "We thank the Robo Corp for the endorsement and sponsorship."

Murfy pulls aside a tarp to reveal a huge flat screen installed into the mountainside. It comes alive with a crackle, showing the contestants at the starting line of the First Ruins.
 
An uproar of cheering emits from the rows of kiddos and Murfy cracks a slight smile as he clears the area. A little further away is a camera station, filming the spectacle for Razorbeard's home turf is a lone Gorilla Pirate, with Spyglass overseeing the transmission. 
 
Murfy approaches them with what he hopes to be a welcoming smile.

"You guys doing alright?" he asks.
 
The Gorilla tries to swat at him, but Murfy dodges with ease, giving the bulky model a bit more space.

"Yes," the Spyglass replies, monotone, "Everything is working fine. Thank you for asking."
 
Murfy furrows his brow, casts a glance back at the transmission. Globox appears to be in the lead because Rayman stalls the robots out in the back.

"Alright then," the fly comments and leaves.
 
He surveys the area from the top, before sneaking around the back of the camera crew to take a closer look at the pirate ship.

"Hey, hey, hey. STOP. THAT!" Razorbeard cries out after Rayman freezes him once more.

"What 'cha gonna do?" Rayman mocks. His ammo, for the time being, has run out, so instead, he springs another trap and gathers a bit more distance.

"I'm. going. to get. these. BANNED!!!!" the small robot cries out before landing face-first in the mud. His Henchman runs past him and Razorbeard furiously shakes a fist at him.

"Where do YOU think you're going?! Get me out."

But it goes for Rayman instead, aiming its cannon at the Limbless, who gulps and makes himself scarce before the freeze can hit.
 "This is a friendly reminder for the competitors that they're on a race track," Ly's voice rings softly across the course. Although she tries to sound neutral, Rayman can pick out the layer of amusement in her voice and smirks in kind.
The Limbless dips his head in apologetic understanding and turns away from the robots to focus on catching up with Globox.
 
The frog has in fact made steady progress. Rayman isn't sure if he could catch up with the big frog if he wanted to. But seeing his friend score first and getting a chance to mess with Razorbeard feels very much like a win-win situation.

Ultimately Globox scores first, Rayman is very proud and encouraging of him and Razorbeard is not a happy camper when he comes in last. 
 
“This concludes the results of the first race!” Murfy proclaims excitedly to the crowd. The children in the audience are beside themselves with cheerful pride for their father.

“Let’s take a look over at the battle stadium, shall we?” Murfy suggests and the screen flickers to reveal a duo of Teensies, Tily, and Razorwife who is excitedly waving at the camera and blowing a kiss.

“I hope your training has been going well,” Murfy greets them, “Because the first round is about to start!” 
 
As he goes through the first-time introductions of the competitors, Murfy notes with a twinge of worry that one of the registered combatants has been a no-show in either event.

He gives a wry grin to the audience as he tosses his prepped cards aside.

Improvising, Murfy gives a quick rundown of the rules and how the unique weapons for the battle work, as the three fighters take their place in the Shadow Plains for the upcoming match.

With all eyes on the next spectacle, Globox lets out a relieved breath when the camera feed cuts out. Rayman gives him a pat on the back. Even Razorbeard appears to be too winded still, to cause much of a fuss right now. 
 
“That was a solid performance, Globox. I knew you had it in you!” The Limbless praises as the two of them slowly pad off the podium stage.

The teensies guide them through a portal door with prepared break-rooms. 
 
“I still can’t believe it!” Globox trills.

"Believe it," Rayman smiles, "You earned it."

"What took you so long anyway?"

"Eh," Rayman stalls for a second, sheepishly ruffling his hair.

"Oh look! Complimentary drinks!"
 
Rayman is surprised to find fresh drinks waiting for them in the Homelobby and immediately downs a coconut. That hits the spot!

"Oooh," Globox pads up excitedly to look over the selection, "Do they have plum juice?"
 
Rayman is relieved about Globox's momentary distraction but pats him on the back regardless.

"I don't think that's a good idea right now," he proposes honestly and hands Globox a coconut instead.

“I just like it the best,” Globox chuckles, “But I’m never gonna turn down free food!” 
 
"I'm gonna win next time for sure," Rayman prophecizes if just to egg Globox on to keep at it.
 
“Do you wanna check out another track, or do a battle next?” Globox asks curiously and Rayman stops to ponder.

“I haven’t really decided yet,” he admits. He’d been hoping to keep an eye on Razorbeard during the matches.

“How about you?” Rayman asks, hoping to steer the conversation a bit. 
 
Globox seems to ponder that question for a bit too long, but Rayman isn't going to rush him.

“How can Murfy say that the battles are safe?” 
 
A pair of teensies pad over to them and clear their throat. Rayman hadn’t noticed them in the lounge area before now, and offers a court bow in greeting. None of them are wearing the crown, so that probably means that the king is either currently busy - or playing.

“You guys have a question?” One of them perks up.

“Yes!” Globox answers almost immediately and Rayman takes a step back to let his friend do the talking. 
 
“I- I don’t quite get, how battling with the robots, can be a safe thing?” Globox starts, insecurely, “I mean, don’t they have like… weapons? And Rayman and the fairy are the only fighters?” 
 
The other teensy gives Globox a casual finger gun.

“I got you!” it trills, “You were late, so you haven’t gotten one of these yet. Who does the sitting by the way?”

“Oh, Clark and Sssam take the wild bunch, Carmen teaches some of them to swim, and a couple from you guys-”

As Globox is still talking, one teensy climbs atop the other and pops open a little bottle in front of Globox's face. A small glowing orb floats up, causing Globox to trail off when he sees it.

When he

aweeees

at it, he breathes it in. He wants to hack it up on instinct, but strangely enough, it makes him feel warm and fuzzy inside.
 
“A modified Silver Lums," the teensy at his eye level explains.

“Ly made these specifically for the duration of the event. It corresponds with the fairy blessings in the chosen areas and synchronizes with the generator weapons. If you have any, it locks your own powers away for the time being, so everyone's on an even playing field. I’m surprised you WON that first race without having this yet.” 
 
Rayman steps aside suddenly, sheepishly scratching the back of his head, and the teensy casts him a knowing smirk. 
 
Globox hiccups and watches the resulting light bubbles puff away dumbfoundedly.

“Feels warm,” he says.

“It’s Magic,” the teensy perks excitedly.

“And it really works for the pirates, too?”

“We haven’t been proven otherwise thus far.” 
 
The teensy seems very certain of his answer, and that in itself, makes Globox feel a little safer.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Razorbeard gets carried into the robot lounge by his Henchman and dumped into a barrel of oil. He emerges soon after, twisting his arms and thankfully no longer rattling.
 
"What a farce!" Razorbeard immediately whines. The Henchman looks at him, then walks away to oil his own joints.
 
"The fact this fat frog won is a disgrace! We were sabotaged! And Rayman calls ME unfair! I'm gonna show him what ‘unfair’ looks like!"
 
The Henchman watches his captain from the distance and doesn't interfere until the smaller bot struggles to get out of his oil bath.
 
800 gets up to help Razorbeard out, and then gets completely ignored again as Razorbeard towels himself off and begins his anger-induced pacing. All the while, he's muttering under his breath.
 
A knock on the door calls Hench's attention and he trots over to the door to peer through the eyehole.

It's the little fly dude on the other side.
 
The larger robot makes a sound to get his Admiral's attention, but Razorbeard is too busy fuming to even notice, so with a shrug, Hench opens the door.
 
"Yooooo," the fly greets him with a finger gun. 800 doesn't respond.

The grin on Murfy's fave cracks, then falters, before he lets himself in.

"Good talk."
 
Upon hearing the fly, Razorbeard stops pacing and snaps his head towards Murfy.

"You! What do you want?"
 
Reading the room, Murfy is momentarily stunned by the tension and casts Razorbeard a nervous grin.

"I just happened to notice that one of your teammates seems to be missing. Is everything all right?"
 
Razorbeard stills for a moment, his entire attitude shifts, like a switch has been flicked. He makes himself stand tall (to the best of his abilities), back straight, and arms crossed behind his back.

"1000, you mean? He got damaged in training and we're currently waiting on a shipment of spare parts."
 
That was… quick.

As Murfy takes a glance at his schedule, Razorbeard huffs in contempt.

"Robots don't just

heal

you know, so the poor guy's gonna be out of commission until then. I dare say that puts us at a disadvantage."
 
There's a gleam in Razorbeard's eyes, that Murfy doesn't quite like, but he's not going to address it.

Instead, he puts on his best 'business' face and wields his pen.

"And you didn't think to come to us about that sooner? Do you need a spare?"
 
Razorbeard waves him off, "I can just send in another model of the 800 for now. What I'd rather like to discuss with you is what went down during that race."
 
Murfy's neutral expression falters for a moment. In pursuit of other things he hadn't actually stuck around to watch the race, so the fly doesn't actually know what Razorbeard is talking about - and if the robot realizes that, it could spell trouble.
 
"Okay," Murfy says as he draws his notepad and taps his pen against it.

"I can take notes. Would you like to retell the experience in your own words?"
  
Tily and Razorwife have teamed up against the teensies. While the two ladies are having a lot of

fun

, the king hasn't lost sight of

winning

this match. One could say the competitive spirit was second nature to their entire tribe, if his companion switching places and snatching the crown from him was anything to go by.
 
He's just gonna claim that back later.

"Let's show them what real teamwork looks like, brother!"
 
And thus the inevitable happens: The teensies lose over their own quarrel, Tily to her lack of focus and Razorwife takes the podium with unadulterated glee and a well-prepared speech about that outcome being absolutely unexpected.
 
When she tells her husband later, he seems especially moody - but that's just all the more reason to enjoy her success.

Unlike the Captain, she knows how to value the nice things in life.
 
"I can't wait to see the Sunset Coast up close tomorrow! From what Tily told me it must be gorgeous."

Now THAT seems to get Razorbeard's attention.

"I'm a little worried about all the water and sand though. Do you think I should pack some extra grease?" Razorwife prattles on and Razorbeard stops her while she's ahead.

"The fairy talks with you?!"

"Why, of course!" Razorwife replies, offended by her husband’s disbelief, "I do care about the people's customs here."

"Really? The fairy?!" Razorbeard parrots again and his wife shakes her head before booping the blade of Razor's beard.

"Yes, the fairy. Such an adorable young thing. Says she trains under a 'Ly'? Must be very important from what she tells me."
 
Razorbeard feels his jaw unhinge, and when realizing that fixes his posture.

"You're pulling my leg!"

"Now why would I do that?" the female robot tuts, "You only have one."
 
Razorbeard stands and stares.

Incredible. 
 
They’ve been here for what, half a week? And here, while his pirates were busy optimizing the tracks, this wench goes… and socializes with the enemy.
 
The truly unbelievable thing was that it had

worked.

…

He can

use

this.
 
Before Razorwife knows it, her husband is rubbing his hands together in mischievous glee. He gets that look on his face again, that she isn't quite sure what to make of sometimes, before his entire demeanor changes.

"You're right, of course, my queen, my golden sprocket. I'd never doubt you. Do you think she'd let you meet her teacher?"

"Of course!" Razorwife tuts, "Like that's a question. We're waiting on a slow day though, maybe sometime after the events."

Perfect.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

"I admit, that didn't go down as planned. I won't do it again."It's not often that Rayman finds himself at the other end of a reprimand."Sure you won't," Murfy says, "Because the Committee has decided to ban the freezing projectiles."Rayman definitely doesn't look in favor of that but doesn't object to it either."Pardon," he says, "I couldn't help myself.""It's not just that," Murfy explains, "The teensies told me, that Globox won despite not having received his Silver lums yet. He couldn't even interact with the track properly and won by a mile! It was a necessary balance adjustment."Rayman pouts but doesn't say anything. Both of them know why the result was as it was.Murfy is the first to break the silence with a tense sigh. He lowers his organizer and floats down to stand on a boulder instead."I hate to admit it, but Razorbeard raises a valid point. You wouldn't want the robots to side against you either, would you?" That seems to touch a nerve and Rayman stands almost too quickly, his hand slamming against Murfy's rock and topples it in a way that almost throws the fly off."Are you listening to yourself right now?!"Murfy is wise enough to keep quiet. He doesn't leave and watches as Rayman anxiously brushes through his hair and falls into a nervous pace. "Please," he finds his voice eventually, "There's so many of them. What about all those pirates on the ship that aren't participating?" Rayman comes to a stop, huffs out a breath. His hands fidget and he pulls them through his hair again in what Murfy begins to recognize as a nervous tick. This might be the possibly worst time to bring it up, but-"Did you know Razorbeard is sending more of them in because he's short a participant?" Rayman freezes, stops what he's doing. He looks at Murfy dead-on with eyes that beg him to tell the Limbless that he's kidding. Instead, Murfy shakes his head somberly."1000 is missing. I haven't been able to track him down yet. I have to keep the show moving too, you know." Rayman begins pacing again. Quicker, shorter steps. He's spiraling."Hey," Murfy tries, but gets interrupted."Find him," Rayman blurts, "I don't like this! Find him!" The fly retreats to give Rayman space, his face concerned. Then he nods."I'm doing my best," he says, "But I'm not leaving you now." Rayman crumbles, his body parts bounce softly on the floor before realigning themselves in a weary sitting position.Murfy lands on the ground and puts a hand on one of his shoes."Maybe you should pull out and skip tomorrow's events.""No," Rayman insists far too quickly, "I can't let Razorbeard out of my sight."Murfy shakes his head, jumps on the foot and tries to meet Rayman's lowered gaze."If Razorbeard plots something it won't be during matches." Rayman glares at him, his face a whirlwind of emotions. His eyes say 'You're not helping’ before they’re widening in veiled horror and Rayman stands slowly, trembling."He's plotting something now!" "Rayman!" Murfy yells, "You're paranoid! Take tomorrow off. This is no longer a suggestion."Rayman's breath hitches."You wouldn't-""I will rng the matchups if I have to! Please don't force my hand." Rayman's hands curl into fists… then ease up with a sigh."Visit Ly," Murfy suggests, "It might help you to see that we have everything under control.""But you don't!" Rayman wants to shout, but he knows that won't be helping, "You lost track of a robot. One that was registered even. What is that to say about the rest that sits on his ship!"The fly raises his hands in a placating manner."Razorbeard said 1000 needed repairs.""From what?" Rayman's voice cracks from stress, "I don't believe a word out of his mouth." Murfy scowls."That whole friendly competition thing isn't working out for you, is it?"Rayman's eyes flit across the ground frantically before he sits down again and pulls his feet close."What tipped you off?" The only relief is that Globox doesn’t see him like this and that Murfy won’t tattle. Truly, the fly and Ly are the only ones Rayman feels comfortable enough with to know. Globox? He wants for his friend to keep that blissful ignorance, especially knowing why he chose to participate in the first place.  Murfy tries for a comforting smile, takes to the air again and pokes Rayman’s nose. “It’s gonna be alright,” he says, “Your job is saving the world if needed; the committee's - which I am a part of, mind you - is seeing to it, that it won’t come to that.” Rayman huffs out a tired laugh and brushes his hair back again. His eyes are glistening as he nods at the fly and Murfy’s cautious smile breaks out into a full-on grin. “Trust me, you’re gonna have so much fun competing in a group that doesn’t have Razorbeard in it! Try and enjoy this, okay?”  Rayman still isn’t sure this is a good idea, he wipes the beading tears from his eyes and nods his head.“Okay,” he says. Globox has told him somewhat the same, and if what he keeps hearing rings the same, there better ought to be something to it. “I’ll try.”  … In the nearby trees something whirrs and shifts. Then it’s gone.

Despite all the manhandling during today’s match, the 800 at his side doesn’t look any worse for wear and Razorbeard gives himself a pat on the back for outstanding construction choices. Sadly the Admiral can’t say the same for himself.He’s tired - not used to all the running and jumping, his batteries screeching at him for a charge. Razorbeard is just trying to enjoy the eve of this crazy day, lounging in his cabin, when a knock on his door interrupts him.  It’s decidedly heavy and loud, certainly not that annoying flying pest from earlier. “Come in.”  There’s 1000, proudly saluting. “Captain! Sir!” “Aye,” Razorbeard returns his greetings, his mood improving instantly, “You’re back.”  1000 nods briefly, then points his left arm at the wall. Something clicks, and not much later, a movie reel begins to play, the hologram emitting from where 1000’s gun would usually sit.  Razorbeard mulls over what he sees, various recordings from the last couple of days. 1000 had already trimmed and selectively chosen only relevant moments to not waste his captain’s time. When the reel ends, 1000 lets his arm fall back to his side and turns to face Razorbeard, awaiting new orders.  “Well done, 1000,” Razorbeard mulls quietly, “You may leave. Keep doing what you’re doing.” 1000 salutes again, before he places a cartridge onto the small desk in the corner and leaves.  The door falls shut and Razorbeard flops into his chair, running the new information through his mind.  Peaceful sports event. What a bucket of bolts!The vermin are at least as deceitful as his own crew.  But that’s not going to save them when the time comes.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Rayman does NOT follow Murfy’s advice and shows up the next day regardless. The fly gives him a knowing look and raises his eyebrow at him.

“Can’t say I expected anything else from you,” he comments dryly and Rayman shrugs his hands nonchalantly.

“You know me too well.”

Murfy lets out a sigh, “Which is why I’m prepared. You’re not going to go up against Razorbeard today.”

Rayman raises his hands in a placating manner, like he had already counted on something like that.

“I’m good,” he says, “I wanna make the best of this. Like you said.”

“Like I said,” Murfy parrots him beneath his breath before giving the instructions a little louder.

“You will be sparring with Tily, Razorwife and Globox in the Sunset Coast.” 
 
Rayman doesn’t further comment on that, nods, and heads towards the appropriate portal door. Globox appears to be late again, while Tily and Razorwife are having another chat. They seem to have been hitting it right off.

“Ladies,” he introduces himself with a court bow in greeting and Razorwife’s mechanical voice springs to life almost immediately.

“Rayman!” she greets him, “I heard you wore my husband down good!”

The Limbless’s smile is wry as he’s still trying to understand this particular robot’s quirky personality.

He’s about to- oh, he doesn’t know, apologize, just for the sake of manners, but Razorwife catches his hesitance and raises a finger at him with a tutting sound.

“You did good!” she says, “He really needs some tough love every now and again.”

Although still cautious, Rayman’s smile grows a bit more relaxed.

After their first encounter, he was strangely wary of getting on this one’s bad side.
 
Not long after Globox approaches. The small gathering can hear him before they spot him rounding a corner with twenty-something kiddos hanging off his back.

"Sorry I'm late," he apologizes and juggles to keep none of them from falling off.
 
Rayman reaches out a hand and begins plucking the sleepy ones from the very top when Razorwife emits a screech, reminiscent of grinding gears.
 
"They are adorable!" she says, absolutely infatuated. 
 
Rayman momentarily stops what he's doing and regards her with a look of caution and worry.

Memories of Globox's younglings held in cages for slave labor flood his mind as Razorwife tuts that she 'wants one'.

"Madam," Rayman struggles to find his voice, but some of the kids that are not quite asleep yet jump over willingly to climb the robot's 'hair'.
 
None of them are crying, but Rayman swears he can still hear them. He hugs the little one in his hand to his chest and cautiously takes a step back from the scene.
 
The kid in

his hand

starts whimpering as he's holding on too tight, and Rayman drops it in a moment of realization.
 
Everyone's looking at him. 
 
"Are you okay?" Globox asks with concern. 
 
Rayman laughs nervously despite himself, and runs a hand through his hair.

"Yes, yeah, I'm fine," he says, "Why wouldn't I be? Let's do this match while we're all here, yes?"
 
His nervous energy is ready to burst and Rayman can't wait to let off some steam. A battle might just be what he needs right now. He doesn't wait for the others, walks right past them, and is the first to vanish through the magical door.
  
He feels like himself again.
 
Dodging bullets and punching stuff is second nature to him that everyone values him for but rarely has seen put into action.

He's trying his hardest not to make Razorwife his only target in this match, but he can't bring himself to outright chase after Globox.
 
Tily dodges one of his rubber bullets, and Globox zooms past him with a shield, running from Razorwife with a sticky bomb attached to her-

Right,

he should probably make himself scarce as well.
 
Rayman finds reprieve on a ledge to survey the area. Tily’s running with the bomb now and he can't help but flinch slightly when it goes off. 
 
The golden glyph spawns and Rayman might as well take that chance while he's here.
 
This particular weapon seems… odd. A bee shrouded in black mist, reminiscent of the spectral caterpillars. Rayman makes a note to question Murfy about the thought process behind that one, later.
 
When he activates the weapon the bee sits on his palm and looks at him. Then within the blink of an eye, Rayman sees himself, a vacant stare in his eyes, everything is moving and he's having a hard time dodging.

He's not in control, yet strangely able to steer. The feeling is strange but familiar. Rayman has ridden enough walking and flying shells to get the hang of this quickly, but what messes with him is the sensation of disconnect.

His body feels far away like he's in a daze. 
 
Yeah, Murfy DEFINITELY has some explaining to do.
 
As moving begins to feel more natural in a less crowded area, the battle beneath him rages on. He sees Globox and Razorwife chasing each other, but Tily is oddly absent. When he catches sight of her, she's going for his slumped form - by the look in her eyes, she's not going to ask whether he's doing alright.
 
Rayman violently steers to the left to catch up with her and when she starts shooting at him from the sandy plateau his resolve is made.
 
It's a weapon, first and foremost - so steering at himself to put his soul back into his body is probably a very bad, no-good idea. 
 
Time to figure out what happens when he crashes into Tily instead.
 
With a blink of his eyes and a dazed shake of his head, Rayman wakes - in his own body - to the dazzling view of an explosion in front of him and a dazed Tily retreating to spawn elsewhere.
 
Still reeling from the unexpected experience Rayman catches his breath before he takes the time to spot Globox and Razorwife heading his way. He falls from his ledge, uses the plateau to shield himself from an incoming firework bullet and on his way to meet up in the tussle snatches the spawning generator.
  
"By Polokus," Rayman blurts, "Murfy, what were you

thinking?"

The fly has the audacity to grin innocently. Having moderated that match, he knows exactly what Rayman is so frazzled about.

"It's neat, isn't it? That one was Ly's idea, actually."

Rayman is flabbergasted still, sputtering his disbelief.

"I know, I know," Murfy giggles, "Ly thought it'd be fun! Like

meditating!

Are you really sure you wanna know how that works? It might just mess you up even more."
 
Rayman stops sputtering with a frustrated groan. His hands still tremble when he thinks back to the weird out-of-body experience. He'd

felt

Tily's attack, but was helpless to stop it.

…

That's because the 'Buzz rocket' as Murfy calls it was a weapon to be used fast and not a means for scouting.
 
He rests a hand on his forehead and lets out the breath he's been holding.

"That was… so weird."

"Weirder than having Globox beat you in a race against

the

Razorbeard?" Murfy jests good-naturedly and pokes Rayman in the side. The Limbless shoots him a look.

"Yeah, okay," he admits, "I'll get used to the weapon quicker."

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

"Come on Rayman! One more stretch! I can see another over there!"The Limbless is trying hard to stay focused on the track. He can't yet see the butterfly that Murfy is referring to, so he casts a glance up at the fly to see where he's looking at, but by that time he does Murfy's attention is back on him, a timer in one hand and a mic in the other. "Aaaaaaand there goes it!"Ah, NOW Rayman can see it, as it's flying off."Sorry Ray, better luck next time," Murfy hushes at his friend before bringing the mic up again and praising his numbers to the audience, despite him having failed the challenge. For what it's worth Rayman could collapse on the spot, but he wouldn't want people to see as Murfy is still engaged with the fixed cameras of this track.Giving the fly one more look, the Limbless sneaks off to get some rest. He doesn't get far though. "That was amazing!" Tily gushes and Rayman jolts at her voice. He hadn't been aware of an up-close audience."How did you know to use that shortcut?! I had no idea that was even there!" she gasps suddenly, as if realizing something "Is that even legal?"Rayman is still trying to gather his breath."Yes," he manages, tiredly "It's legal.""Oh!" Tily chirps excitedly, "I gotta remember this." Where are the teensies? He wants a shortcut to the break area. "My quickest lap was way slower!" She's still going, "Would you teach me?"Rayman jolts at the mere idea. Takes a look at Tily. She's serious."You sure?" he asks. She puts up her hands in a pleading manner and nods excitedly.  Rayman bites his lip.He hadn’t come here for this.He’d really just wanted to visit the Water Canyon and de-stress, much like he’d recommended Globox not too long ago.But of course he’d had to run into people, now that it was an official track and of course, Murfy had to talk him into doing a solo activity. To be fair it had… helped. Up until the point where he realized the fly had been moderating his run. His attention falls back on Tily, and he ruefully works his jaw.“Sure,” he agrees because anything less wouldn’t be expected of him, “But can it wait?” “Oh!” Tily perks, “Of course, of course! You must still be exerted from this run, right?! Time chase can be so stressful! At least you picked nice scenery! So peaceful!”Rayman nods, secretly wishes she’d just stop talking, and wanders off to stand under a waterfall to tune her out.  For a moment the water is soothing and Rayman feels present; relaxed even.He could just chill here for a bit, the patter of water being a more soothing noise than long-winded, one-sided conversations.Speaking of which... Tily is still here. He raises an eyebrow at the young fairy.“Do you mind?”“Nope!” she replies ignorantly and excitedly wiggles on the spot, “I wanna challenge you to a race, whenever you're done with that.” Rayman makes a sound of acknowledgment. “Are you sure of that?” “Sure, I’m sure!” Tily trills, “You can teach me some of your tricks and I’ll show you some of mine. You might learn something, too, you know! I’ve run this Popolopoï before!”  Okay, fine. Since she’s not going to leave, Rayman might as well budge.He steps out from under the waterfall and begins to wring out his hair. He feels much better already anyway. “You’re very confident for someone who claims that their own time is weak.”  Rayman gives her a smirk and Tily merely sticks out her tongue at him. “So what!” the fairy huffs and crosses her arms defiantly. “You can only get better, with practice right? You're not the end all, be all Rayman. I could beat you in a match. Globox already did! And I'm sure so could Razorbeard."Rayman tenses at the very notion, a flinch so prominent, that even Tily in her manic rambling catches on.“The world isn’t going to end, just because you lose a match here. That’s why I snatched some of the butterflies while you were busy on the other side of the track, and look! Nothing happened! Now we can have a rematch!" That gets his attention.Rayman stops wringing his hair and looks at the fairy. Did he just hear that correctly? "Hold on - You sabotaged me?!" "Duh," Tily rolls her eyes, before her entire posture wilts, "I just wanted you to play with me. Do a race together. Break the ice."She kicks a pebble with her foot."I thought we'd just gotten off on the wrong foot. Turns out you're just a sore loser!" Tily all but mopes and Rayman feels himself bristling. She doesn't see it. Will not stop her nagging."Rayman is so great. Rayman can do this . Rayman can do that . All of our hopes lie with Rayman. Ugh! You should hear her sometimes."Wait, is she-"I don't know what Ly sees in you."She is. Rayman feels himself tense. His core goes numb. The waterfall behind him grows mute to him, but Tily’s nagging remains ever present. So Rayman decides to put an end to it. "You don't know what you're talking about,"  He doesn't catch the moment when his fist curled or when he raised it to hang above them. But he does see the tears bead at Tily's eyes when they well and it steals his breath.He looks at his fist, pulls it down, and holds it close to his chest to show Tily it's not going anywhere. She's got a point. He knows she does. But that doesn't make him a sore loser. He practically gifted that first match to Globox. He wouldn't have minded losing to Tily either before she started rounding on him.But as for the pirates…As things are now they're sprawling everywhere over his Glade but the water regions (which is why he picked this spot) and the thought of losing to them - even if it's just a match... It'd be like letting down his whole community, if he allowed the pirates get a foot in the door. He's spiraling before he knows it, his mind trapped in that awful loop. "Where were you?" he asks, before his mind can catch up with his heart.His gaze is locked to the ground as he watches the water run past his shoes. Tries to feel it as it soaks his feet. Be present in the moment.
It's not helping.
 "Where were you when Razorbeard had everyone enslaved that you dare talk to me like that?" Tily's expression contorts into a grimace. She doesn't say a thing but he can see her face grow red with anger."That's not fair!" she belts. "No!" Rayman interjects, "It's not. You know what also isn't fair? You, having the audacity to sabotage other people, me or otherwise! You, talking like that about Ly. To my face! Who do you think you are?!" Tily's pout grows. "You're a killjoy.""I'm a-" Rayman sputters. Unbelievable.  She's just a kid really, Rayman has to remind himself as he stews in his own anger. It's like a boiling sickness in his gut that he's trying to quench."Yes, you are," she drives the point home and Rayman only manages to keep himself composed because of how broken she sounds."Why do you have to keep bringing this up?" she asks, "We're better now! It's the whole point of this competition! Maybe you shouldn't be participating if you're just gonna be a grouch about it!" Rayman lets out a sigh, his posture wilts and the hand he’d been coddling precautiously floats up to rub his temples. “That’s not the point,” he says. He can’t really talk with Tily about this. He’s not participating for fun. He wishes he could, he really does. “Is too!” Tily insists, “I just wanted to be friends, you know, with all the praise Ly has for you. Now I’m not so sure of that anymore.”  Rayman stops what he’s doing to look at her. Really look at her. He knows in the grand scheme of things, he shouldn’t be angry.  Tily is rubbing her arm self-consciously, and stares at the ground to avoid him. “I know I’m not Ly,” she says, “I know you’d rather wanna have her around. And I’m just one of the dumb other people who’d like to have some fun here.”  Humbled, Rayman scratches the back of his head. “You’re making this really hard,” the fairy continues, “You can’t keep pushing everyone away.”  At those words, he feels a somber smile crack on his lips and he nods in agreement.“Hey,” he says, “For what it’s worth, you sound a great deal like her.”   The need for some time alone was pressing after that conversation.He doesn't think Tily left angry after everything was said and done, but Rayman… He really isn't too sure, if he's entirely honest with himself. It's not just Tily. Ever since the start of the games, Rayman seems to be stepping on everyone's toes. Razorwife criticizing his manners, Murfy having to hand out reprimands… even Globox had called out his behavior regarding Razorbeard. The only ones who have yet to openly chide him for anything are the teensies, and they arguably just have their hands full with all the damage control he seems to provoke. Politics really aren't Rayman's forte. Usually his problems get solved by punching them, but he can't really do that here. It's slightly maddening, truth be told. He'd been spending the rest of the day on a coastal cliffside watching the tumultuous games unfold on the large screen below. It takes Globox gathering up the young ones for Rayman to realize how late it's gotten. He should probably get moving himself. That's when he hears it.The metallic rattling spurs on his instincts and with his guard up, Rayman whirls around to find none other than Razorbeard approaching him. “What are you doing here?" Rayman asks. His fist is twitching with nervous energy before he lowers it and buries his fingers into the ground instead, "Haven’t I bullied you enough yet?” Unimpressed by the vocal threat Razorbeard meanders over to the Limbless. Even with all the running they've been doing, it's the first time Rayman notices the robot's slight limp. When Razorbeard comes to a stop, he's still much too close for comfort as far as Rayman is concerned. His fingers twitch uneasily, but the robot won't budge. “Word travels fast," he says, and Rayman feels icy at the implication. He hadn't meant for his little tiff with Tily to blow out of proportion like that.If that's… what the pirate is referring to. "Hey," Razorbeard calls his attention, "I’m not here to cause trouble. So I formally would like to apologize for the trouble you seem to have regardless.”  Rayman says nothing, raises a suspicious eyebrow. Razorbeard puts up his hands in a placating manner and chuckles - good-naturedly. “I get the animosity, I totally do. Would be weird if I didn’t,” the robot says as he leers up at Rayman with an amused tilt to his head. “Still doesn’t give those buffoons the right to treat you like that. As a proper person of respect you can’t just be everyone’s doormat.” That remark earns Razorbeard a scoff. “So what do you expect I should do?” Rayman asks, honestly curious about what the pirate is going to suggest next. “Well,” Razorbeard shrugs casually, “Usually, I’ve had traitors like these tossed into the lava pit.”  
Figures. 
 Rayman rolls his eyes, turns his attention back to the view of the scenery. “You’re mad.” Razorbeard doesn’t seem insulted, just shrugs it off casually. “I know we don’t see eye to eye,” the robot says, “but at least you can be sure to have my respect.” Rayman scoffs, chances a small glance at Razorbeard before letting his gaze stray again. “That’s because you know I could pound you into the ground.” “Oh and you want to,” Razorbeard perks with an excited amusement that’s entirely out of place in his situation. “But you won’t,” he points out with a finger raised at Rayman, almost patronizingly so “And that is some formidable display of goody-two-shoes discipline. I can respect that.”  Rayman closes his eyes, lets out the breath he’s been holding, and stands.“I’m leaving.”  “No, wait!. Wait, wait, wait, wait.”  Razorbeard’s joints rattle as he bounds after the Limbless, trying to catch him off.When he jumps into Rayman’s path he can tell how the other tenses, visibly. The fists at Rayman's side curl tightly in an unspoken threat and Razorbeard relishes at the invisible power he holds over the hero in the fact that he has not yet rearranged his face.  “Just let me say my piece.” “Oh,” Rayman mocks, “You’re not done yet? I think you’ve said enough already.”  Ooookay, so maybe Razorbeard should have considered his words a little better. “Maybe I haven’t made myself clear-”“Crystal,” Rayman cuts him off with a wave of his hand that could have been a slap if he’d aimed just a little lower. “What part of leave me alone, did you not get?”  Razorbeard starts fidgeting, taps his fingers together with an irritating clicking sound that makes Rayman’s eyebrows twitch whenever the metal connects.“Technically, you never said to-”“Well! Leave me alone!” Rayman aims to fix his mistake immediately. His posture has hunched forward in a way where he almost meets Razorbeard’s eye level. Compared to his friends Rayman has never been on the tall side, the teensies and Murfy notwithstanding, but the gesture is enough to shut the robot up.Rayman pulls back to leer down on the admiral and with a final scoff, circles around him to leave.  Razorbeard is left behind where he stands. The robot doesn’t try to follow again, but turns his head eventually to see the Limbless trotting away with tense energy. His eyes glint with mischievous glee. It’s a solid base. He can work with that.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

“...and then he just turned… really mean. It doesn’t match up with what you told me, Ly. And I’m worried.”

The older fairy has asked Murfy to keep an eye on the pirates when Tily had requested a meeting with her, and truth be told, what she’s hearing is unsettling.

“That’s not like him,” she agrees, “I should meet with him.”

“But what about the whole…” Tily gestures wildly at Ly’s grove, “This thing? Rayman will probably be frantic when you take a break.”

Ly smiles at her charge with somber confidence.

“Then would you like to take over for a bit?”

“Do I EVER!” Tily bursts with excitement that causes Ly to chuckle.

“Easy,” she tries to channel that energy, “Calm down first. Focus.”

“Like uhm…” Tily is running in circles before plopping herself into a cross-legged position. “Criss Cross Applesauce, am I doing this right?”

Ly chuckles softly, “Almost.”

She moves over to the young fairy and helps adjust her posture.

“You’ll get the hang of it eventually. Now take a deep breath, and hold it.” 
 
Tily follows her instructions and nods.

When Ly is confident that Tily is focused, the older fairy moves to sit across from her.

“You’ll want to focus on Zenith Harbor and Timber Wood right now.”

Tily breaks her composure.

“At the same time?!”

Ly meets her gaze.

“Yes,” she says, “We’re starting small.”

At the implication, Tily’s excitement leaves her as quickly as it has come. It doesn’t escape Ly’s watchful eye. 
 
“You don’t have to,” Ly says and prepares to get back into the zone, and take over when Tily defiantly blurts her refusal.

“No!” she insists, “I can do it! Please! Ly!” 
 
Ly blinks her eyes open to see Tily adjust her posture with a pout like Ly had shown her, her eyes are closed and her aura flares, but wavers.

Ly nods. “Zenith Harbour,” she says, “And Timberwoods.”

Tily nods.
 
“I see…” she squeaks, her eyelids twitching, “Globox racing against two Henchmodels.”

Ly hums with approval.

“And the teensies just struck down Razorwife with a rubber bullet.”

“You’re doing great, Tily.” 
 
The young fairy chuckles with relief.

“This is really hard,” she says.

“It’ll get easier,” Ly encourages her and prepares some energy to leave behind for Tily, so she doesn’t have to strain herself so much.

“I will be back before the next matches start.” 
 
Her eyes stay closed when Tily nods her understanding.

“What do I do if something’s amiss?”

“You stay calm,” Ly says, “And reach out for me.” 
  
Rayman is… not thrilled to see her. And if Ly is entirely honest, yeah - that hurts.

She lifts her hands placatingly.

“You’re agitated,” she states neutrally, “That’s absolutely understandable.”

“No,” Rayman disagrees with restraint, “You’re supposed to keep an eye on the pirates. I don’t trust Tily to do your job! Not when she thinks sabotage-”

“Rayman,” Ly cuts him off calmly, and snatches his flailing hand out of the air. She holds it with purpose, but ever so gently that it makes him go limp immediately. 
 
“What am I doing?”

His voice is so brittle, Ly squeezes his hand a little tighter. 
 
“I know you’re worried about the pirates,” Ly says and Rayman wheezes audibly.

“They’ve been peaceful, if it helps any.”
 
Rayman pulls his hand out of her hold and drags it to his own chest like he burned himself.

“It doesn’t!” he blurts, “If they’re peaceful, I’m just being rude and Razorwife is right about it. When there’s no pirates, I’m lashing out at my friends, because I’m so- so…”

Ly puts a hand on his torso, kneels down on his level, and pulls him into a hug.

"That doesn't make you a bad friend, Ray."
 
In her arms, he feels sheltered and pulls her closer with a sob. 
 
“I… may have said some things in my anger that I shouldn’t have,” Rayman admits humbly.

There’s a weight to his words that makes Ly cautious. 
 
“Rayman?” 
 
He’s grown tense suddenly, both of his hands pressing in on his temples.

“Razorbeard wiped out all of Phrys. And I- I accused her of not being there.” 
 
Ly stills.

“You did what?” 
 
Rayman freezes, draws a sharp breath.

“Of all the things,” he says, “she did not tell you

that?”

He buries his face in his hands and crumbles right then and there. Ly catches parts of him before he scatters on the ground, pulls him close. 
 
“Hey, hey,” Ly tries to calm him, “It’s okay. You were angry. Please, just talk to her.”

“How can she be so calm? With him being here? With not telling you?!” 
 
Ly pulls his core a little closer and bends to pick up his hands.

“She’s hurting, too,” Ly says, “But everyone copes differently.” 
 
Ly feels Rayman’s hands pull back into place and gives them the space to reattach. The Limbless is still heaving and Ly is hesitant at first, but winds up putting her hand on his back. 
 
"You're taking this a lot worse than she does," Ly says, rubbing his back comfortingly.

"She'll forgive you. But you have to forgive yourself, too."

She offers him a smile, and tries to pull him in for a surprise cuddle, but Rayman pushes away first.
 
"That's not everything," he says.

“Razorbeard knows.” 
 
Ly inhales at that information. She’s surprised, not only because that change of topic came rather sudden. 
 
“Yeah,” Rayman says as he falls back and sits. His hands hang before him and he folds his fingers nervously as his entire posture sags like a wilted flower.

Ly joins him, her curiosity piqued.

“I thought Tily made a fuss about our fight. When Razorbeard approached me he'd said that ‘word had spread’, but none of the others seem the wiser.”
 
Ly seems thoughtful for a moment, pondering what to say.

“She did come to me.”

“Of course she did,” Rayman says with a shake of his head, “I expected as much. I mean, that’s why you’re here. But how did Razorbeard know? He was busy with the day’s race. Tily and I were alone. Ly, I haven’t slept, trying to wrap my mind around that.” 
 
Ly herself is rightfully perturbed. She ponders the weird occurrence, her face feeling heavy as she rests it on her knuckles. She had been keeping watch. Diligently so. If there’s an answer to that, she should know it. 
 
But she doesn’t.

Can barely bring herself to tell her friend, for fear of upsetting him even more. 
 
"Have you told Murfy?"
 
Rayman nods.

"He'll be looking into it."
 
Ly hums, lets her gaze drift for a moment.

"How did that go?"
 
This time, Rayman shakes his head.

"It was… really weird? Like he was trying to buddy up."
 
Under any other circumstances, Ly would tell her friend to be optimistic.

Now? She says nothing.
 
It's a sore topic and Ly knows Rayman is biased, but even with only one side of the story, it strikes her as alarming.
 
That's when a knock sounds on the door of Rayman's private locker room.
 
Speak of the devil.
 
Razorbeard invites himself in before Rayman can even react and immediately startles when he sees the two of them. 
 
For all intents and purposes, Rayman's retreat is very bare, save for a hammock, a small bedded flower pot for Murfy to stay, and a small pile of pillows the two Glade dwellers are currently occupying.
 
"This seems to be a bad time," Razorbeard drawls with sick amusement.

"VERY!" Rayman bursts and immediately jumps to his feet. Ly can only do so much to hold him back.

The pirate directs his attention to her and his eyes light up for a second.

"Ly," he says, "What an honor."
 
She freezes suddenly, getting caught like this, away from her post. Memories of electric fences flood her mind, her ears buzzing with the sound of electricity and even though she did before, she understands how Rayman feels more than ever.
 
"Any time is a bad time for you!"

She hears him call out. He’s already stalked off and Ly can only bring up enough willpower to throw a pillow at Rayman before he does something he regrets.
 
Razorbeard

laughs.

Rayman startles at the impact and catches his belly again, putting it back into place. He casts a short look at Ly, before turning his attention back onto the Admiral.
 
The robot has his arms crossed behind him and looks positively giddy.

"If it makes no difference to you, I'd rather get this over with now than later."
 
His entire body heaves when Rayman takes his next, deep breath.

"Fine," he says, "What do you want."
 
Razorbeard pulls one of his arms from his back and twirls his wrist nonchalantly.

"I couldn't help but overhear-"

&/#*_÷

"That you were talking about me."
 
Rayman freezes on the spot. His face goes pale. Ly stands.

Razorbeard tilts his posture and glints at both of them mischievously.

"Aye," he says and adjusts his hat, "I'd like to 'buddy up' as you so eloquently phrased it."
 
Ly can see Rayman’s fists shake at his side, then from one moment to the next it stops and his fingers go lax.

“Alright,” he says. His voice comes easy. The lack of stress or hissing causes Ly to worry her lip as she watches on with curiosity. 
 
Rayman walks over to Razorbeard and with an almost mock nonchalance slaps his hand on the robot’s shoulder. The admiral only

nearly

topples from the impact. 
 
“Keep your friends close, ain't that right?” Rayman’s grip on his shoulder tightens as he forces his new

friend

to face the door.

“Come on,

Beardy.

I’ll show you around.”

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

“What are you THINKING?” Rayman hisses as he marches Razorbeard through the harbor. The robot strolls casually, not the least bit threatened.“I’m thinking you may not be quite happy, friend.” he says pointedly, “Almost hostile even.” “Oh,” Rayman rolls his eyes, “So you expect me to be thrilled about this whole arrangement?”  Razorbeard says nothing. His arms stay locked behind his back.“In a manner of speaking.”  Rayman raises a doubtful eyebrow at him. "I am extending a hand," Razorbeard gushes with mock hurt, "Why can't you do the same? I promise I won't run off with it!" "So you're being funny now? That's a new one." Razorbeard waves the remark off with nonchalance."You did want to keep an eye on me, did you not?" Rayman stops moving at that. He casts a worried glance at the robot as he waddles up next to him, his optics are gleaming mischievously. "No point in hiding it," Razorbeard says and Rayman feels himself deflate at what an open book he must have been."This is the perfect opportunity to do so, I wonder why you'd possibly say no." Razorbeard runs a finger over the blade on his face as he ponders. It makes too much sense. So much so, Rayman doesn't like it. "Because it means I have to spend time with you," he snarks in turn, hoping that the attitude masks his anxiety. Razorbeard hums."Well, you win some, you lose some. So, anyway. Ly takes time out of her busy schedule to meet you?” Rayman hates how comfortable Razorbeard is, trotting by his side. Hates how the guy peers into his life. Hates how he acts like it's the most common thing. Hates how any friend he mentions on the fly, by their name, makes Rayman fear for their life. "Not usually," he says if only to divert Razorbeard's attention. "Oh," the robot perks, still ever curious, "Then what's so different today?""How about it's none of your business?" "But Rayman," Razorbeard drawls, slick as oil, "We're pals now. You can talk to me." 
Polokus, give him strength!
 When Rayman doesn't give in to his prodding Razorbeard huffs with reluctance."Be that as it may. I have some good news." Rayman raises his eyebrow."Good for whom?""Everyone!" Razorbeard prompts excitedly. "I was just heading to the Teensies when I came across your place." "The-" Rayman doesn't know what to respond, but he knows to be cautious."Okay?" He can't help but be suspicious of Razorbeard's 'surprise', but lingers enough to let the robot take the lead.  "Admiral Razorbeard," the king greets with a slight quiver on his companion's shoulders, "What do I owe the honor?"Razorbeard tips his hat, "I just came for a little chat," he says. Rayman and the teensies are exchanging a glance before the king clears his throat.Apprehension lies thick in the air. If Rayman has tagged along the king fears for a political storm brewing… "Oh, alright," he settles nervously, but tries not to show it, "Rayman, would you wait outside?""That won't be necessary," Razorbeard declines the Teensy's offer almost immediately, "Rayman and I are friends now, isn't it so?" the robot drawls and pulls the Limbless's torso in.Rayman lets it detach lest he's going to get dragged right into the blades of Razor's face. The Teensies look disbelieving, focus all of their eyes on Rayman who's cautiously trying to get his belly back. He doesn't exactly look comfortable but isn't bellowing out objections either. "R- really?" the king asks, before catching himself and clearing his throat, "I mean, that is great news. Exactly what we wanted with these festive events, am I not right?" "Absolutely!" Razorbeard brims and reaches out a hand to shake on it."On even brighter news, 1000 has all of his repairs done, so he'll be able to join the coming events, moving forward." "The missing pirate?" It's the first thing Rayman has said and his voice is laden with caution."Yes," Razorbeard says simply, then leers at Rayman."I heard you were actually concerned for 1000. Really, I am touched." Rayman stiffens. He's only ever told Murfy.In private. "How would you-""I told you," Razorbeard brushes him off, "Word gets around here." Rayman grits his teeth. The Teensies take note of the way his fingers twitch and the king leaps off his companion's shoulder."Oh, I think it's time to celebrate!" the king trills and reaches for Razorbeard's hand to drag him away from Rayman, "I can't wait to see how the guy performs in matches!" “YOUR HIGHNESS!” The Limbless jolts at another Teensy rushing past him, “There’s chaos in the square!”  Rayman doesn’t wait for permission before he rushes off to see what’s going on.   Taking the route upwards the cliff gives Rayman the high ground and a better view on things as they are unfolding. Even so, he hears the commotion from afar before he gets to see it. "Clark Noooooo!"The Giant is barreling his way through a group of fleeing pirates and Rayman can already feel the weight of the political disaster that is going to cause. "Clark smashes pirates!" the hulking figure announces with an angry roar while a group of Globox's children cheers from his back. Not too far away he can see the frantic parent trying to keep up, waving his arms. Rayman takes a breath and leaps down into the bay. But before he can touch down safely, 1000 jumps in front of Clark to shield his robotic companions. If Clark trashes the freshly repaired model now, peace talk is going to be a thing of the past.  “Clark!” Rayman calls and steers for him instead. Recognizing his voice, the Giant - fist still raised - glances up towards Rayman. To speed up his momentum, Rayman stops helicoptering and with a gasp, Clark unclenches his hand so Rayman can land easily on his flat palm.  Rayman lands with a roll to break his fall and crouches in Clark’s waiting hand.“You gotta stop buddy,” he says, now that he’s got the Giant’s attention, “They’re…” he can’t believe he’s saying it, his teeth are clenched still, “friends.”  Clark seems to take note and shakes his head.“Pirates are not friends!” “Yes,” Rayman insists with a nod of his head, “You gotta trust me on this, okay?”  He can tell Clark is running his words through his mind by the worried look on his face. The Giant lets his gaze wander over the robots he’s been chasing around, some of which he’d toppled over; they are rubbing their heads or helping each other up. The new one with the funny paper hat who had jumped in front of him still has his guard up, but makes no move to attack. The worried expression doesn’t leave his face when Clark looks back at Rayman, but he lowers the hand holding him to the ground, so Rayman can hop off easily. The Limbless does with an encouraging nod and takes extra measures to pat Clark’s open palm.  Globox catches up with them eventually, panting like he’s run from a horde of mosquitos again and leans against Clark’s other arm. He raises his hand to say something, but only a tired wheeze escapes him as the frog topples face-first by Clark’s feet.  1000 shifts where he stands, something in his visor glints before he brings down his guard. Rayman watches him with apprehension, but he’s not going to leave Clark unless he’s absolutely positive the large guy isn’t going to run off again at the next chance he gets.  Slow clapping sounds behind them and Rayman turns to see Razorbeard and the King making their way over. “Impressive,” the robot comments dryly and Rayman draws in a sharp breath.   You shouldn’t have brought this many robots is what Rayman WANTS to say. “He hasn’t been clued in-” he springs to Clark's defense instead, but Razorbeard merely raises a hand to shut him up. The Limbless watches as the Admiral observes the robots tending to their dents, before his eyes land on 1000. The newer model stands at attention and salutes, before crossing both of his arms behind his back.  “Minor damages on models that aren’t registered,” Razorbeard comments, “Because I’m so gracious, I’ll let it slide.” The relief on the Teensy king’s face is an affront to Rayman, but he doesn’t say it. Instead, he keeps holding onto Clark’s enormous hand as he feels the fingers twitch in aggravation.It’s a mood he can understand very well, but the risk is too high. Is that what everyone sees when they watch him champing at the bit?  He tugs on Clark’s thumb to get his attention and when the Giant turns away from Razorbeard to look at him, Rayman nods away from the bay.“I’ll tell you everything, okay? Did you come to drop off Globox’s kids?”  That’s when Clark seems to remember he’s got luggage in the first place. He hunkers down and lets the kids slide off his back to swarm around their tired father instead.  Watching them, ever eager and blissfully ignorant almost makes Rayman forget the kind of disaster they just narrowly avoided.  His own tension leaves and he notices that Razorbeard has been watching. Rayman finds it hard to read his intent. “Thank you,” Rayman says. He doesn’t know why, but he does think that it needs to be said. Razorbeard’s posture immediately shifts curiously, like the robot hadn’t been expecting it either. “For being lenient,” Rayman adds. On Clark. On... on him. Razorbeard seems to relish the gratitude and nods his head dutifully.  Rayman really doesn’t know what to make of it. All of it. This entire situation. But he figures it’s good. Odd, maybe.  But somehow good, nonetheless.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Razorbeard is… strikingly good at chess. It's something that bothers Rayman immensely.He'd thought baiting his Grand Minimus out of its reserve and taking the Sylkin would blow the robot's pipes and make him irrational, but instead, Rayman finds himself in a very pressuring trap. He's mulling over how best to proceed with his Tuftkin when he picks up Globox yelling in the distance, the frog approaching fast.  “Rayman, bro, please, can the kids and I crash with you for the night?” The frog doesn’t see Razorbeard before he’s drawn closer.“Globox?” Rayman asks, perturbed, “What’s wrong?” There’s no point in shooing the robot away, Rayman knows he’ll just continue to rib him about it for the entire day. “I heard my weird cousin crashed the party,” Globox pants like he’s just done his third race in a row, “He’ll want to stay in the lagoon, but I can’t let him near the kids. Pleeeease,” Globox begs.  Rayman furrows his brow in sympathy. His own retreat barely has space to house one guest, let alone Globox and… the kids. All, what, 50 of them that are attending to watch the game. Aside from that, there’s always the chance Murfy could come in for a report, and Rayman knows how the fly’s mouth likes to run away from him before anything.  “Globox, I- I wish I could,” he says and already feels remorse as he notices his friend's hopes fall. “They can stay on the ship,” Razorbeard supplies offhandedly and both Rayman and Globox whip their heads around to face him in surprise.“What?” the robot questions with a scoff, “I think it’s a little rude how you pretend I’m not even here.” “Oh!” Globox immediately gushes, “Thank you!” “Whoa,” Rayman puts up his hands, “Hold up! Don’t you wanna think about that?” The large frog immediately shakes his head no.“Trust me, Ray,” he says, “You don’t know my cousin and there’s a reason for it. He’s bad news. I don’t want him to mingle with the kids. Period.”  Rayman works his jaw at the news. There’s no convincing Globox otherwise when he talks like that. Razorbeard catches the side-eye he shoots him and has the audacity to push out his chest with a chuckle. “Well…” Rayman caves, turns to give Razorbeard a pointed look “Surely it’s okay if Clark sticks around, too. Just for when Globox is busy running matches.”  “Sure, sure!” Globox nods his head before waddling up to Razorbeard and grabbing his hand to shake, “Thank you Mr. Beard! It won’t be for long. Glom usually gets bored real easy!” Razorbeard allows the rough shake despite it rattling his bolts to the point where Rayman can hear it and for the moment… the Limbless doesn’t know what to say.  He doesn’t think putting the kids on a pirate ship is a good idea… but there seems to be a good reason if Globox up to this point never even brought up the guy he’s so worried about.  “You look worried.” Of course, Razorbeard just can’t let it fly. Rayman lets out a sigh and rolls his eyes before having them pinned on the robot. “I was trying to play nice,” he says with disdain. Bless Globox for looking so confused by his animosity. The frog twiddles his fingers nervously. “I thought you guys were good now?” He says. “Yes!” says Razorbeard. “No!” says Rayman.Then the two of them glare at each other.  “Uhm….” says Globox unsurely and Rayman snaps his head at him, before realizing what’s going on and quickly shooting his hand around Razorbeards shoulder to reel him in. “Yessssss!” he amends, “We’re good.” Razorbeard shakes his head. “You’re really bad at this.” “Suit yourself.”   Globox takes them to the lagoon and true to his words, there’s a large purple frog rummaging the area. The pond where Globox’s kids would usually be splashing around has already been cleared. Rocks and splintered wood liter the usually peaceful area and it’s only through the perpetrator’s own movement that Rayman eventually spots him among the rubble.  “THAT’S your cousin?!” “Eeeeh,” Globox tilts his wrist from side to side, “ Distant cousin,” he presses. Razorbeard chuckles as the purple frog beneath slams through a wall and rummages through the pantry. “I like his fashion sense.” Rayman raises his eyebrow. “You mean the huge skull painted on his back, don't you?” Razorbeard tilts his head and snaps a finger, “As I said. Dude’s got style.” “Oh NO!” Globox cries, “He’s found the plum juice! Hold it, buddy! That’s mine!”  Aaaand there he goes.  Rayman tiredly rests his head in his hand and shakes it as he watches Globox run off to engage with the odd frog. A curious one, to say the least - Rayman isn’t quite sure what to think of him. All things considered, the mysterious frog is a force to be reckoned with. There’s an obvious trail of destruction in his wake, that reminds Rayman of Clark, but less systematic. While watching him, Rayman has caught the guy doing stretches before gorging himself at the pantry and… the Limbless can’t deny that he isn’t curious to see how someone like this would fair in battle. In the same vein, yes, he can understand why Globox is not a fan - even if they do seem to have one thing in common when it comes to food.  “You’re not gonna stop him?” Razorbeard asks and Rayman is abruptly reminded that the robot is STILL around. At least he’s getting better at ignoring the pirate. “No,” Rayman says and gets ready to follow, but casually, “I’m not gonna fight Globox’s battles for him.” Not when the frog can finally bring himself to tackle those burdens himself.   When Rayman and Razorbeard arrive at the Lagoon, Globox and his cousin are fighting over a barrel of plum juice. Rayman clears his throat to get both of their attention, Globox viciously claiming his favorite drink the second the purple figure is distracted.Seeing them next to each other is uncanny, they do look nothing alike. The stranger, Glom, Rayman thought Globox had called him stands tall, yet hunched. Unlike Globox, he seems to have teeth (oddly) and glares down at Rayman with empty eyes. He’s a hulking figure, bulky, but in ways that make him seem a lot more agile and built than Globox. “So,” Rayman asks, unimpressed by the intimidation and rubs his chin, “That food is for competitors,” he says, “Are you planning to partake?” Globox gasps exasperated, “Rayman! No!”  The new frog makes a strangled sound of curiosity and points at Globox before smacking his fists together.  The blue frog gulps in turn, flinches away but protectively hides the barrel behind him."Don't encourage him, Rayman!" Rayman casts a playful smirk at Globox."Just curious," he says. What he doesn't expect is the barking metallic laughter sounding next to him."I didn't think you'd have it in you!" Razorbeard hollers as he punches Rayman's middle hard enough to bounce before it realigns himself."Sea devil! I thought Globox was your friend." "He is," Rayman states matter of factly, "But we're giving anyone here a chance to play if they want to." Rayman's grin turns outright smirk as he pins Razorbeard with his eyes."If you can participate, why can't he?"Razorbeard slaps Rayman's torso again and it jarrs. He's getting used to it at this point."Right on you!" the robot bellows and struts past the Limbless to take a closer look at the mute, tall amphibian. "A fine specimen," Razorbeard hums, before glinting at Globox. The blue frog sputters with indignation and straightens his pose. "Tomorrow, 10 o clock. I want to see this one in a battle!"Rayman truts over to Globox and puts a hand on his shoulder to reel the frog in."Him and your best bot! We can take you."Razorbeard chuckles menacingly. "It's a deal!" then he grabs the purple frog by the arm and drags him off to get registered. "What just happened?" Globox gulps once they're out of eyeshot and Rayman sags with a sigh of relief next to him."I thought he'd NEVER leave!" "Rayman!" Globox is still upset, "Why did you invite him?!""Pshhh," Rayman waves him off, "Relaaax. How much worse than Razorbeard can he be? This is going to be fun!"  It wasn't fun. In fact, dealing with 1000 and the Dark Globox tag-teaming them in a match of Capture The Fly is downright unpleasant and Rayman regrets every decision that lead up to this point.  "Globox, watch out!" Rayman calls as he freezes 1000 going after his friend who after a long last, had finally gotten a hold of the buzzing lums. Even though they're in control of the Lums now, their opponents managed to gather a strong lead, and it’s certainly not been for lack of trying.  "You and your best bot," Globox snarks as he leaps at the wodden ladder and seeks shelter in the Timberwood’s hollow, "'It'll be fun', he said.""I'm sorry!" Rayman apologizes for the upteenth time while he follows to watch Globox's back. Not long after, the face of Dark Globox peers over the rim, but Rayman is all out of freeze bullets."Purple incoming!" the Limbless calls in warning, but Dark Globox had already shot a sphere and laid claim on the lums.  Rayman dashes after them and manages to snatch back the Lums just before they can score the last point. But 1000 has already been waiting for him, hidden from sight by the beams-structure giving the abandoned quarry its name.  The robot gets frozen by Globox from his high vantage point before it can act on its retaliation and Rayman makes a run for it. Globox’s cousin is heading towards the large pirate flag, hoping to lose Rayman by weaving around the boxes in a sharp turn to the left but the Limbless stays in hot pursuit.  He can see the purple frog, has a perfectly clear aim at him. He could take him down right now. Every instinct in Rayman’s body screams at him to act now - but he doesn’t. Instead, a plan forms in his mind and he lets the timer run out and gifts the victory to Dark Globox and 1000.   “Oh nooo,” he laments in the lounge area. “I guess that double team was just too much for us to handle.” The fight had in fact not been an easy one, but Rayman makes sure to put on a show for Razorbeard when he joins the gathering.“I told you 1000 was a fantastic model,” the admiral prides himself.“And that Dark Globox, too!” Rayman says, ever so subtly nudges Globox, “They make a fantastic team. I’m sure you’ll be wanting to keep that one around.” Globox shoots him a look of concern. “You know,” Rayman eggs on, “For strategic counseling.”  “That does sound viable.” Razorbeard is in agreement after but a moment of thought. “Then it’s probably best if you’re gonna keep him around on the ship,” Rayman suggests, “For team meetings.”  Razorbeard exchanges a glance between Rayman and a still confused Globox. Then he laughs. “I see what you’re doing!” the robot says and pats Rayman on the back. The Limbless hates when he does that, but grits his teeth through it. “I like it!” Razor says, “Don't worry, blue guy. I’ll be keeping the brute away from the Lagoon for you.”  
"Ooooooh!"

NOW, Globox understands.

"Well, thank you, Mr. Beard. Much ubl… obleigh… uuh…"

Amused Rayman pets his belly.

"It's okay, big guy."
 
Not being a man of big words, Globox instead trots over to Razorbeard and pulls the tiny robot into a hug, ever mindful of the sharp facial hair.

After putting him back down, he waddles off with an easy mind.
 
"So," Razorbeard hums, as he dusts off his arms and crosses them behind his back.

"That was something, huh?"

"What? Getting hugs?! Eh, with Globox you'll just have to get used-"

“You just sold your best friend's extended family to me. How does that feel?"

“What?” Rayman jolts. The robot lets out a hearty laugh.

“Nononono,” Rayman panics immediately, “I didn't sell you anything! We’re just doing

teambuilding

here.”

“Right,” Razorbeard jumps to his defense unexpectedly, “Because we’re all friends here.” 
 
Rayman gives him a look of caution. There’s a sudden sense of trepidation that the Limbless tries not to let show.

“Right.”