Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The night sky twinkled with bright stars tonight. On the streets people walked in fancy, expensive clothing. This was where Chance had grew up, they knew these streets like the back of their own hand. They had grown up privileged, which in hindsight may have screwed their view on the world. Tonight, however, that wasn’t their nightly topic.

They walked into the restaurant, hands tucked neatly into their pockets, though their thumbs stuck out. They waited until someone came to bring them to their table. Already sitting there was none other than their good pal. His crown gave him away; as well as his icy presence.

“ITrapped!” They waved enthusiastically before sitting down parallel to the man, “How’ve you been bud?”

“Fine.” His finger circled the rim of his water.

It seemed the waiter had already taken their drinks. Chance was a little late, but they didn’t care all too much. ITrapped could probably care less himself. They engaged in small talk, though Chance was mostly the one chattering away. They had always been a chatterbox, even when ITrapped didn’t look particularly interested.

When the waiter came back with their food, Chance happily dug in. It also appeared ITrapped had ordered their food, though they had been friends long enough to know what the other wanted. Chance had ordered their pasta, while ITrapped got a simple steak with some broccoli on the side. Compared to ITrapped, who took a slow and steady approach. He cut his food first, Chance didn’t care. He ate slowly, and they ate like they had been deprived of it. Though they both had something in common; they were at least eating cleanly.

In the middle of their food, they looked up at the other and grinned. “Have ya heard the news?”

ITrappeds hand paused in the middle of bringing a bite of steak to their mouth. He raised his eyebrow, questioning, and Chance grinned wider.

“So, we’ve only been friends for about 2 years, but I don’t think I’ve ever, uhm, told you about this,” the gambler began, “there’s a party on the 16th.”

ITrapped chuckled, “Another? Seems like the 5th one in this past month.”

“Ahh, but this one’s special! It’s hosted by.. yours truly,” they pointed their thumbs at themselves, looking bold.

ITrapped didn’t looked shocked. The gamblers grin faltered for a second, before they whined, “What? It’s super cool!”

“You’re a rich guy, what rich guy around here hasn’t thrown at least one party?”

“Again, it’s special!” They talked with their hands.

“And how so?” ITrapped took a bite of their steak finally, seeming skeptical.

“You seriously don’t know!?.. Anyways,” Chance seemed like an excited dog when he talked about things like this, “My family holds this huge party every year. Usually only fancy rich people get invited to it, and I’ve never really had say until this year!”

They clapped their hands excitedly. ITrapped looked onward at the happy gambler, mind drifting off. God, can’t he just get this damn key already!? He snapped out of it, taking another mouthful of their steak.

“Cool,” he replied, mumbling.

“And I figured since I have a say this year..” Chance grabbed into their shirt pocket, before sliding an envelope towards the ice robloxians direction.

ITrapped put on a semi-fake grin, “you’re inviting me of all people? Don’t you have anyone else better?” In truth, he just really didn’t wanna go.

“I’m not just inviting you,” they say, “you remember those friends you told me about?”

ITrapped perked up now, “you want to invite former exploiters and hackers to your families pristine annual ball? Isn’t that reckless?”

“Nah,” Chance dismissed it with their hands, “besides, there’s been worse drama at these balls. A few exploiters would probably end up being the least of the talk of the night.”

ITrapped stared at the envelope on the desk. In truth, most of the friends they talked about he didn’t care much for. In reality he would’ve invited Ellernate and Caleb, if he could. But here he was, stuck with people he didn’t care about to invite.

“..Do you even remember the friends I talked about?” ITrapped questioned.

“Dignity, HerbTheGuy, Aeacus, and 007n7.” Chance blurted out.

ITrapped was impressed. With how much the gambler never seemed to stay on one topic, they had actually listened. Not like ITrapped cared enough to do much of the same. Not like they had ever expressed much at the fact he never seemed to really listen.

“Then you send the invites. I’ll be there at the party, since you seem passionate about it afterall.”

Chances face lit up, and the gamblers hands clasped together. They nod.

The rest of the night was dedicated to the food, and when ITrapped and Chance finally parted ways, Chance couldn’t help but dwindle on the hackers he had promised to invite. They didn’t exactly know to send the letters too..

They’d figure that out later. For now, they walked down the streets of the bustling city, now looking forward to a night they didn’t care much about before. They liked when their parents finally allowed them to do what they wanted, for a change.

It was their lucky day.

Chapter Text

The sun shone down on that day, birds occasionally flew through the skies looking for a different place to perch. It was a Friday, and most schools had closed for the week. That was the reason for teen Robloxians to prowl the streets, holding Bloxaides in their hands and complaining about the homework assigned. Meanwhile, at the very end of the street stood a house most didn’t bother to go near.

The house was raggedy but given with a sort of childish character given the toys scattered on the lawn. A damaged scooter locked to a wooden plank sat near the front door, while the bike next to it remained with a few scratches. On the front porch was a few items of clutter yet to be picked up. Outside painted a picture of a stressed but peaceful family.

Whoever there was a reason why nobody had bothered to come closer to the house. Why the lawn stayed so cluttered, why when Robloxians approached it they walked a little faster.

This was because 2 certain Robloxians lived in that house, each one having caused their own share of trouble. One of them was the infamous 007n7, the one behind the Builder Brothers Arsons around a decade ago. Initially apart of a hacker group, 007n7 used his c00lgui to burn and unanchor buildings all across town. He has sense stopped, but most still flinch whenever they see him walk into a store.

Then there was his rascal son, c00lkidd. For the most part c00lkidd wasn’t too dangerous. He had caused a few fires himself back when he was taught no better, but those have since ceased aswell. Though, despite that, their lifetime ban still hadn’t lifted.

Inside the house, a clatter of plates and forks sounded. On the TV was some simple cartoon, a story that neither of the occupants really cared for. At the table sat the father and son, with 007n7 cutting a pork chop for c00lkidd, his own plate off to the side to prioritize his son.

007n7 wore a simple white collared shirt with a blue sweater vest, dark jeans paired with a belt. On his head sat his iconic burger hat, with Noobie, the spider noob, nestled on top taking a peaceful nap. His horns occupied just below his hairline, with dark brown, curly hair reaching his chin.

c00lkidd sat at the opposite to him, legs gently swinging under the table. The boy wore a red hoodie supporting his school club, ‘team c00lkidd’, with black shorts and fuzzy socks he had been so adamant on wearing today. The boy himself was fuzzy aswell, red fuzz covering his paws and the top of his head, paired with his tiny horns.

Tonight’s dinner was a recipe Seven had found online. Some steak, mashed potatoes, and broccoli. He always thanked Telamon that c00lkidd was one of the few kids he knew that liked broccoli. Though, trying to give the rascal any other green proved to be an impossible task that only served to make Seven wish he had just gotten fast food instead.

Seven got done cutting the steak, and gave the plate back to c00lkidd who began to chomp down. Seven chuckled, before sitting down and cutting his own food.

“How was school?” He began, starting small talk.

“Gooud.” He muffled through bites, small purrs coming out unevenly.

Seven teasingly scoffed, “Slow down, the food isn’t going anywhere, and try not to speak while you’re still chewing..”

c00lkidd nod, but the hacker didn’t know whenever or not c00lkidd really understood or was even listening. The rascal had a bit of a listening problem, but it was worth it for the years worth of memories.

Seven began to eat aswell, though by the time he was halfway done c00lkidd had long since finished. The demon watched the TV again, sitting criss-crossed on the couch with his small tail wagging. Seven never really paid attention to what c00lkidd was watching, though as long as he acted fine he wouldn’t look into it.

Seven finished up and put his plate in the sink, before going to the front door and putting on his shoes. He was just gonna get the mail real quick, making sure he wasn’t missing any important envelopes.

He went out the front door, before silently making his way down the path. Infront of the path to the house stood a childishly painted mailbox. He had allowed c00lkidd to paint the thing when he was younger, and he hadn’t washed the paint off since.

He opened up the tiny door, and grabbed out a single piece of mail. Taking a quick glance at it, it seemed a little intimidating. A red wax seal kept it closed, an odd sign on the wax. He walked back up the path, while simultaneously picking up the toys left behind by his kid off the lawn. Thankfully they weren’t too dirty.

He walked back in the house, calling out, “You need to clean up after yourself more when you’re outside, or else I won’t allow you to bring your toys out there with you.”

c00lkidd looked over as Seven handed him back the toys, before walking to his lounge chair to read the mail.

“Sorry dad, I’ll clean up next time.”

“Ya better,” he teased, before tearing the envelope open.

The letter itself felt high quality, but it was the contents that made his heart drop to his stomach.

“007n7,

I hope this letter finds you well, and I am delighted to be sending this. You have been recommended by a dear friend of ours, and have henceforth been invited to the Annual Jacett Ball. We expect your best manners and dress, and we will provide food and drinks. If you have a family member that you wish to bring or cannot be left unattended, assure they are also welcomed along with you. The ball will start at 6: 30 PM this Sunday, and end at Midnight (12: 00AM).

We hope to see you there,
Mrs. Ryala Jacett, Mr. Smith Jacett, and Chance Jacett.”

Seven was surprised, for a second. It was a rare occurrence he had been invited to anything in the first place, considering his reputation. But .. this? Seven read over it again, noting the tone. This sounded serious, but he’d never heard of this Annual Jacett Ball show before..

c00lkidds attention had been brought off the TV, now looking at what his dad was doing. His eyes lit up when he saw the paper in Sevens hand.

“It’s just an invitation to a party,” Seven remarked, putting the paper back into the envelope before c00lkidd could ask himself.

“What!? Can I come, can I come???” The demon began to get active, bouncing up and down in the couch with his knees.

“I don’t even know if I’m going myself,” He shrugged, “you know your old man, I don’t do well at dancing..”

“But it’ll be soo cooolll!…” c00lkidd flipped himself over on his back, now half of his body was hanging upside down off the arm of the couch.

“It goes until midnight.. you’re gonna be tired in the morning even if I did bring you.”

“On what day?”

“Sunday. Again, if I did bring you, you’ll be a zombie at school!..”

“Dad ppllleeassee..” c00lkidd whined again, “when’s the last time we did anything fun together?..”

As much as he hated to admit it, his son had a point. Seven worked 3 separate jobs to keep them afloat, and at times it felt like he could just barely keep them above water. All those late night shifts often caused him to come home way too late for the duo to do anything together that involved them going out.

Money was a whole separate problem. Some things that c00lkidd wanted were simply just way too out of his budget. He settled for the cheaper options, which c00lkidd still was extremely grateful for. However he couldn’t help but feel horrible for it. It was like he was cheating c00lkidd out of the childhood that any kid could dream for, the childhood that every kid deserved.

…Seven didn’t have work on Sunday…

…They could probably just head home a little early…

He sighed, putting the envelope down on the armchair. From the way his kid lit up, Seven could tell that the boy had already recognized his sigh of defeat.

“Get your shoes on, let’s go shopping for the stuff we’re gonna wear to the party.” He got up, looking for his wallet.

 

—

The car parked into the lot with a small shutter, and Seven took out his keys. c00lkidd practically hopped out of the car and began to hurry towards the store. The hacker followed behind, sun beaming down on the area as they headed inside.

The store they had chosen maybe wasn’t the best for the occasion, but it was definitely one of the more expensive places that Seven shopped at. He grabbed a shopping cart from out front.

c00lkidd had offered to push the cart around (as he usually did) as they went over to the clothes section. This was sort’ve unfamiliar for the hacker. Usually when they went looking for clothes he chose thrift stores, as they were often cheaper. However, this store seemed to have a huge catalog. Eventually, Seven halted the cart with his hand. c00lkidd glanced up.

“Go find a suit you like, make sure it’s your size, then come back to the changing rooms okay?” Seven looked back, before watching the rascal scurry off.

Seven went to the men’s section, looking at the assortment they had. Most of them didn’t catch his eye, and some of the ones that did caught it in a bad way. He didn’t wanna look tacky to such a huge event. He’s trying to make a good first impression!..

Eventually, a nice one caught his eye. A dark red sweater under a beige suit jacket and pants that came down nicely. He took it off the rack, before heading to the changing rooms. It seemed c00lkidd had gotten there before him, considering the cart was over here.

Seven changed, looking at himself in the mirror. For once the hacker looked nice. Maybe he could style his hair a little for the occasion..

“Dad! Come look!”

He changed back into his regular clothing and went out to see c00lkidd.

c00lkidd was in a dark red suit, a black collared undershirt, with a hat that was a little too big for him on top. His horns framed the hat nicely though, and he looked formal enough, considering the rascals little claws.

“You look amazing kiddo,” he smiled, “go change back and put it in the cart.”

 

He and the cashier were just making small talk, with c00lkidd looking at the various candy items they had near the check out. The cashier had asked what the occasion was.

“Hm?”

“The suits, you two going somewhere special?”

“Oh!” Seven perked up, “We got invited to a ball on the 16th. It’s.. been a bit since we’ve gone out so I figured we could go.”

The cashier suddenly looked shocked, then asked, “Jacett?”

“..You mean the Annual Ball?… yeah, why?..” He didn’t seem to understand what the huge deal was.

The cashier laughed, “you seriously don’t know what that is?”

The hacker shook his head, smiling nervously now.

“It’s one of the biggest events of the year,” They rang up their items while speaking, still shocked, “It’s a celebration thing for holding the key to the Banlands, they’ve done it for decades. I heard it’s actually gonna be their 100th anniversary this year. Crazy how you got invited, you have a friend going there or something?”

Seven racked his brain. Obviously someone had recommended him, but who? Definitely not any of the admins, who were likely attending. Maybe one of his old hacker friends from back in his prime? But that was ridiculous, he hadn’t talked to them in years..

“I suppose so. Guess I’m lucky, huh?” He tilt his head to the side, shrugging.

He thanked the cashier once their items had been bagged and paid for, before heading back out to his car. c00lkidd put back the cart, and Seven put the bags in the back. As they both got in and began to drive away, Sevens mind raced.

Again, he hadn’t talked to any of them in years! Why would he be invited? He was a nobody with a horrible upbringing. Unless.. this was a trap of sorts. Seven got more and more nervous driving, though his focus still tried to remain on the road. The cashier had said that they were known for being the holders of the Banlands. What if this was a trick to lock up all hackers, retired or not, for good??..

Even as Seven was home, even as c00lkidd went to bed, he couldn’t help thinking about it. He didn’t want to bring c00lkidd to a possible dangerous place, much less somehow get them both jailed. Maybe it was paranoia that was talking, or maybe it was the fear that someone was always out for him.

But, he wanted to have some memorable events with c00lkidd. He heard stories of parents regretting not spending more time with them before they grew up too fast. For Christs sake, he was already 10.

Seven had decided. He was gonna go to that ball, and he was gonna redeem himself. He isn’t just a hacker, he’s not the threat that everyone remembers him for.

And he’s gonna have a great time. He’s sure of it.

Chapter Text

By the time they had got there, there were a few cars on the street that had been parked. It seemed that although the Jacetts were a big deal, it wasn’t like they had a public parking space. Seven drove till he saw an open spot, before struggling to parallel park for a solid minute.

He and c00lkidd had gotten all dressed up, with c00lkidd being very adamant on wearing his hoodie. While Seven had tried, the kid wouldn’t pry the thing off of him. Unfortunately the hacker wasn’t gonna fight his son today, so he won and got to wear it to the event.

Seven locked the car doors before c00lkidd could bounce out. He turned to him, his face a little serious.

“Ground rules.”

c00lkidd sighed, but listened carefully.

“No funny business,” Seven counted out the rules on his fingers, “no putting your bare fingers in the food trays, no touching things that shouldn’t be touched, be nice, say your pleases and thank yous, and please don’t try and make the people give you money by pretending to be a homeless beggar.”

“Awwwee man! How’d you know I was gonna do that..” c00lkidd whined, putting down a diy cardboard sign that read ‘homeless kid pleas giv robux’.

“First of all the signs right there, and second, you pulled this same thing last time! You realize how many parents I had to convince that we weren’t homeless and were financially fine??” Seven crossed his arms, still grieving that day.

Seven unlocked the car doors, and the pair walked up to the front gate. There was a small scanner at the entrance, and Seven brought out their invitation. He had noticed it before, but a small rose was near the top of the letter. It was likely for the scanner.

He held it up to the camera, and while he waited for the gate to open, he noticed just how big this mansion was. The lawn was nicely kept, a few bush art statues lined the long pathway and center of the lawn. The mansion itself was a deep red, black, and gold, and it seemed to shine through the afternoon. It looked like the mansion you’d see in a Disney movie belonging to the evil supervillain. It made Seven feel overwhelmed just from looking at it.

With a small beep, the black gates slowly swung open. He put his invite back into his pocket, and he walked inside the estate. It appeared that c00lkidd was in awe too, as he ran ahead. He looked like he had just walked into an endless candy store. His hat kept falling off as he ran, so he had to quickly backtrack to get it.

They reached the front doors, and Seven hesitated. Was he supposed to knock? Maybe there was some sort of fancy doorbell? It was then he noticed the knockers on the handles. How old was this mansion?? It felt more like he was walking into an ancient lair.

Seven grabbed the hilt, before gently knocking on it with the door. The hacker then stood back, and after a few seconds he began to get nervous.

“Did we get the wrong house?” c00lkidd asked bluntly, tilting his head.

“No, this is the address..” he fidgeted with his hands.

Suddenly, the doors open and Seven quickly flinched. The sounds of chatter and soft gentle music hit the duos ears, and now they were face to face with a new face. Before them stood a gray robloxian with short locs tied into a ponytail beneath a dark red fedora. They wore a matching suit, with a small rose attached to their chest. Underneath the suit was a black collared shirt. The dark suits sleeves were flowy and had dark fluff underneath, going onto their hands which were covered in white gloves. They wore simple dark red dress pants with black slits in the sides from the knee down, and black dress shoes.

“Oh! Hello!” They greeted the with a huge smile, “Come on in.”

Seven and c00lkidd stepped inside, and the kid looked like he was already in paradise. His eyes were wide in awe. There were many people scattered about, all in formal, beautiful clothing. The place seemed to glow golden, with a large glowing chandelier at the center of the ceiling. There was a large center staircase, with a painting of a landscape above it. It split off two ways upstairs. There was a velvet carpet, and a couple of tables with an assortment of food and drinks. Some of the people Seven recognized, and some of them he didn’t. He turned to the greeter, giving a weak smile in return.

“Make yourselves at home here! There’s drinks and food over by that table, and bathrooms are upstairs and to your left.” The greeter almost walked away, but accidentally bumped into someone that had walked up.

There stood a familiar face, the tall ice crown could be recognized from a mile away. He was wearing a dark blue suit with and ice texture on the sleeves and bottom of the tailcoat. Black dress pants and white dress shoes. Shoulder length yellow hair framed his face, with a small braid situated in the back. ITrapped stared Seven down with piercing blue eyes, almost dead looking.

“Nice to see you again, 007n7.” ITrapped smiled, greeting the ex-hacker with a handshake.

Seven took it, as not to be rude, though he still felt odd around his presence. He could only assume ITrapped had been the one to invite him now. For whatever reason? Seven didn’t know. He hadn’t talked to ITrapped much when he was in his prime. Maybe ITrapped wanted to be nice, though he hardly believed that. It was nice to pretend though.

“Ah, where are their manners..” ITrapped took his hand back then introduced the greeter beside him, “This is my friend Chance. Their parents are holding the ball.”

Chance smiled again, tipping his hat momentarily.

“I’ll make sure the rascal stays out of trouble.” Seven joked, with c00lkidd huffing a little.

Chance and ITrapped waved, then went off their separate ways. It was then Seven surveyed the area. The faces he could recognize made him a little more intimidated. Off in the distance stood the admins, all drinking nearby a table and chatting. Builderman, Shedletsky, Dusekkar, Doombringer, and Clockwork. Seven wasn’t surprised they were here, but considering the fact he hadn’t had good run ins with them before made him a tad worried.

He noticed that c00lkidd had run off, and the reason at least gave him some relief. It seemed that Guest 1337 and his family was here. While 1337 and Seven hadn’t directly spoken much, his daughter Charlotte was friends with c00lkidd. He could see the two already beginning to make plans for the night, while Guest 1337 and Daisy chattered to themselves. No question as to why they were here, 1337 was a war hero after all.

The next group his eyes wandered to, however, made his heart sink. Elliot Builder. He was standing nearby a support beam, holding a small cup in his hand and occasionally sipping. His sibling Mia or his dad wasn’t anywhere around, though he assumed they were still here. Guilt immediately built up in Sevens chest. He had never formally apologized to the man. Maybe it was now or never, considering he was banned from the pizzeria.

“..Elliot?” He called out, and stepped forward.

Elliot flinched at the sound of his voice, and when he glanced over he looked.. unamused, and almost with a look that said ‘not this guy again’. Sevens shoulders slumped, that reaction was understandable.

“Listen, I’m sorry about ..” he began, before he was cut off.

“Whatever you’re going to say, I don’t wanna hear it. I don’t know why you’re here, but whatever it’s for just.. don’t ruin this for me,” Elliot mumbled, as though talking to him was a burden, “I’d prefer to have a peaceful night today.”

Seven was sure maybe he was coming off more harsh than he intended, but his words still hurt. It also made sense why they were so harsh, he supposed. He nod, understanding, before turning away and shuffling off.

Seven didn’t even know what to really do. He hadn’t been to a party in years, and usually he didn’t do much anyways. Didn’t dance, since he had two left feet. Usually he didn’t have many talents besides coding, so he couldn’t do karaoke or anything. Did they even have karaoke here? Probably not.

The hacker shuffled into a far corner, fidgeting with his hands and watching the other people. He was never one for socializing. Seven felt like this was probably gonna be what the whole night was, standing in this corner while everyone else’s lives went on.

Suddenly, he felt a tap on his shoulder. He looked both ways, confused, before seeing Chance standing next to him. They had a drink in their hand, with the other in their pocket.

“What’s up?” They asked, a friendly edge to their voice.

“I’m just, uhm, doing.. things.” Seven shrugged.

“Really? Looks like you’re doing a whole lotta nothin’.”

He chuckled, “You caught me..”

“Why are you standing in the corner anyway?” They pressed, though clearly out of curiosity than rudeness.

“Ha, if I’m being honest.. I don’t know many people here. And the people I do know I .. don’t have good relations with, yknow, me being a hacker and all..”

Chance took a sip of their drink, which seemed to be some kind of punch, “Well I guess that’s fair,” the gambler then elbowed Sevens shoulder, “ay, if it makes you feel better I don’t know many people here either.”

He was surprised, “I figured you would. Don’t you invite all these people?”

Chance shook his head, “I just send them out, my parents do the writing and the actual invitations. I was just able to suggest some this year.”

Seven nod, understanding. Then, stiffened and sighed with embarrassment.

“Where are my manners.. I’m - “ He was cut off.

“007n7, ITrapped mentioned you.”

“Ah.. right,” Seven turned away, more embarrassed.

There was an awkward silence for a few seconds, before Chance started conversation again.

“You got a kid?”

“Oh, yeah! c00lkidd, he’s my pride and joy.”

Chance then had a devious grin, sorta leaning in, “so who’s the lucky one?? I mean..”

“Oh, no one. Single father.”

There were now the one to look a little embarrassed. They played it off with a laugh, before mumbling a quick ‘sorry for your loss’.

The hacker laughed, “she’s not dead! He’s adopted, so his bio mother doesn’t live with us.”

They sighed of relief, a hand on their chest, dramatically, “oh thank god.”

Seven laughed again, a genuine smile forming on his face. The two chattered a little more, with Seven occasionally cracking a dad joke, which Chance found corny.

 

“You own a casino??” The hackers eyebrows raised.

“Well, technically yeah!” Chance did a small spinning gesture with their cup, “though it’s not like I really run it all the time. I mostly just supervise. I actually gamble at my own place sometimes.”

“So you don’t really lose or gain money,” The hackers tail swayed, “then what’s the point of playing at your own joint?”

“I just do it for fun honestly,” Chance took another swig of their drink, “gambling is something that helps me feel alive. I have plenty of money and income so I never had to worry about going bankrupt or anything. More of a game to me, y’know?”

“Sounds .. interesting.” Seven says.

Chances face them looked a little weird, almost neutral, but Seven could tell whatever emotion Chance was feeling was anything but.

“Sorry, I just.. don’t know what to say to that. It really is interesting,” The hacker fidgeted again.

They regained the smile that had fallen off their face, “Nah you’re good, it’s just .. personal stuff. Not your fault.”

The hacker went to speak again, until suddenly the lights dimmed. As if on que, other voices came to a halt as well. Softly, beautiful music began to play from speakers neither could see. Chance put on a grin.

Slowly, some of the partygoers moved to the center, and began to slow dance with one another. Seven felt his hand being grabbed, and realized Chance was trying to drag him towards where the dancing area.

“I, uh, I can’t dance,” he stammered out, acting like a rock in a excited, flowing stream.

The stream just got more rough as water pushed down the graved path. The gambler chuckled, before taking both of Sevens hands now.

“Ya just gotta follow my lead,” The gambler reassured, as they finally pulled them into the spotlight where the dancers were.

Seven felt nervous, mostly for the right reasons. He barely knew them, though they were already trying to dance. He had a feeling that it was simply just a form of hospitality. Or maybe, it was to help Seven feel less awkward being here than he already was.

He flinched when Chance put a hand on his hip, and his other hand into his. They were also close, very close. They seemed to be moving around in a small circle around the other pairs, but that’s not what the hacker was focusing on. Rather, he was focusing on Chance only. Their breath could be lightly felt from their chest, and also they were looking directly at him. Seven didn’t and refused to make eye contact.

The music played softly, and he tried to focus on that instead. Suddenly, he was twirled around before brought back to the default position. He fainted heard Chance laugh under his breath, which made his face go a little warm. He had been expecting a teasing laugh, but this one was gentle and kind. Almost as though the gambler understood that he’d never had any practice with this.

Seven finally made eye contact, and noticed their glasses, which they had on since they had met, slightly lowered. Chances eyes were a golden gleam, similar to the lights around them. Seven felt his heart rate quicken, and this time he didn’t look away.

..His face grew hotter the more he looked, and the more they danced. He didn’t even notice when the music stopped and the lights dimmed. Well, until he saw the pair next to them kissing.

This was for couples.

“Wasn’t that fun?” Chance whispered, grinning, not noticing the misunderstanding yet.

The hacker tried to get his attention, but the gambler rambled on.

“Usually after this a lot of people go get food, so if you want I can lead you over to the table with the best-“

“Chance this is for couples, this was a couples dance.” The hacker whispered-yelled.

They looked confused for a second, looking around them before their face went slightly red. Their face also dropped, before they quickly backed themselves (and Seven) up from the area.

“Why didn’t you tell me that sooner??”

“You think I noticed until everyone around us started making out???”

Then, Chance snickered, until the both of them burst out laughing. The lights came back on, and the party roared back to life. The pair noticed people beginning to walk towards tables to get food.

“Follow me, I know where the best food is at!” The gambler grabbed Sevens hand again.

The hacker smiled softly. Maybe this trip had been worth it after all.

Chapter Text

The food had been great, in Sevens opinion. He didn’t think he had ever tasted cheese, or frankly any food, that had been made that well. Chance and him were still sitting down at a table and eating. They had been chatting for a while now about some of their hobbies. Though now, they were jokingly betting on random partygoers. Chance was a gambler after all, so it only really fitted them.

“You see that guy in the top hat?..” The gambler pointed to a figure off in the distance.

“Yeah?”

“5 bucks that he spills something, watch, watch..” They lowered their tone.

“Okay then.” Seven turned and watched aswell, hands moving to his lap.

As if on que, the man spills something after tripping over a bump in the carpet. Though fortunately it wasn’t too much of a mess. Seven sighs and brings out his wallet, handing over the gambler 5 bucks.

“It’s almost like you never lose,” Sevens tail swayed in annoyance, leaning forward and crossing his arms on the table.

“You’d be surprised of how often I do,” they replied, shrugging their shoulders and bringing out a coin from their pocket.

They began to flip the coin, each flip making a small clink each time it had left their hand. It was simply background noise to the hacker. He glanced over a few times to watch, but soon his gaze went back to the ballroom in front of them. It seems that the party was dying down a little.

He wondered where c00lkidd was.

 

Outside, the red demon scurried around the garden. He was careful, trying not to destroy any flowers with his shoes. Charlotte had invited him to a few rounds of hide and seek. The mansion was huge after all! c00lkidd ran and dove into a small greenhouse, before hiding under one of the tables.

A minute or two went by, and he figured that Charlotte had already begun her search. He was a little worried, as it was beginning to get dark out. The sunset was very pretty though, with shades or orange and pink highlighting the horizon. His tail wagged as he watched the sun.

Suddenly, the greenhouse door swung open, and a person walked inside. c00lkidd flinched, backing further under the table to remain hidden. At first, he thought it was Charlotte coming to find him. However, that wasn’t the case as they walked by. It seemed to be one of the people that greeted them at the door, ITrapped. c00lkidd slowly peeked his head out.

ITrapped seemed to open a small pack of.. something. He couldn’t make it out. There was a small flick of something, before what sounded like fire being lit. Curious, c00lkidd came out from under the table. The place was huge, so it’d probably take Charlotte a while to find him.

“What’re you doing?” He called out.

ITrapped looked around, before spotting the kid as he did. He put out his cigarette, before putting his hands in his pockets.

“What’re you doing in here? Aren’t you supposed to be inside?”

“I’m playing hide and seek!” c00lkidd smiled, hands flying up excitedly, “do you wanna join??”

“No,” the robloxian said bluntly, walking out of the greenhouse.

c00lkidd followed behind, still trying to keep low in case Charlotte was nearby. ITrapped was annoyed, though kept his cool as he walked back toward the mansion.

“I’m not supposed to be inside.. it’s against the rules of the gammee..” c00lkidd whined, his voice hushed like his presence was a secret.

“Then don’t follow me?”

“Whyy noott??” The demon cried.

“Because I don’t want you following me in the first place? Leave me alone?”

“I don’t wannnaaa..”

The two began to argue, with ITrapped desperately trying to get the demon off his leg almost the entire time. How could someone be this clingy?? While ITrapped was yelling at c00lkidd, Charlotte had been sneaking up from behind. Suddenly, she tackled c00lkidd.

“Found you!”

“Hey! Not fair!!.. I was trying to get mister Ice to come play with us!” he shoved her off of his back.

“Oh,” Charlotte looked up at ITrapped.

“Don’t call me that,” ITrapped scowled.

“I’ll stop calling you it if you play with us!” c00lkidd grinned mischievously.

“I agree! Please??” Charlotte asked politely, attempting to use the trick that she always used on her father.

ITrapped let out a huge sigh, trying to think of how to get them away. He had never liked kids, always thought they were chaotic and gross. They always scribbled on walls with chalk and crayon and were always screaming. Suddenly, an idea popped into his head.

“I have a game we could play,” ITrapped pointed to the tree line, where you could catch a glimpse of what looked to be a river, “Its called ‘Find Treasure’. Go to the river with a leaf and pan for gold. First to find gold wins.”

Both the girl and the demon ran to the river, each bickering about who was gonna find the gold first.

ITrapped sighed of relief, before heading back inside the mansion. The ballroom was alive again with people, and music began to play in the air. He walked over to the main staircase, hoping to find solitude. The upstairs of the mansion was way less occupied, and the velvet carpet continued its path up to the second floor. There were an abundance of guest rooms up here, but ITrapped was looking for one singular room. It was obvious from the interior, a large, comfy bed with many bedazzled furniture. There was a large walk-in closet, filled with spectacular clothes. ITrapped had been in this room before, and he was focused on his ultimate goal. He quietly trecked inside the closet, careful not to make noise within the floorboards.

Where was that safe?

The answer lay in the corner of the closet, hidden under a few clothes hanging on the rack. ITrapped crouched down and fiddled with the lock, even bringing out a lockpick to try and pick the lock himself. However, he found himself hesitating. An item of value like this probably has an alarm in it. If he picks the lock it might sound. Then he’d be screwed, especially with admins here. Especially with Builderman just one staircase below. He might not have his ban hammer, but ITrapped wasn’t taking chances. However..

There was a reason why he invited who he did to this event. ITrapped stood up, placing the lockpick back into his pocket. Maybe if he could find 007n7, then his c00lgui could-

“What are you doing??” A voice sounded from behind him, causing ITrapped nearly to unsheathe his Darkheart.

Despite the fit of panic, it was simply the pizza boy, Elliot Builder. The man who had been employee of the month at Builder Brother Pizza for several years now. Not because he had special privilege being the founders son, but because he was the only one trying to keep the pizzeria from burning to the ground. ITrapped stood from his position on the floor, eyeing the man.

“I’d like to ask you the same thing, pizza boy,” ITrapped smiled.

“Don’t call me that,” Elliot eyed him, “I only came up here to escape all the noise downstairs.”

The worker then went over and sat on the bed, crossing his arms before laying back. ITrapped walked out of the closet, hands resting behind him.

“Besides, he’s here.”

“Who?”

“007n7,” the worker replied with a groan. “I don’t even get why he’s here!”

“Why is it a problem?”

Elliot eyes ITrapped again, this time looking more annoyed than anything.

“He’s burned down my workplace more times than I can count, he’s rude and snobbish and he causes trouble everywhere he goes.”

ITrapped thought about it for a moment, “You do understand he doesn’t do any of that anymore, yes?”

“Yeah, I guess, but just because he’s changed doesn’t mean I’m obligated to like him,” Elliot uncrossed his arms, now hanging at his sides.

“..I suppose that’s true.”

“Everytime I look at him it feels like..” Elliot sighs, “I don’t even know. I get he’s better but I just can’t look past the fact he’s caused me and my family so much trouble. We’re not even the only he’s terrorized either.”

 

The party raged on downstairs, with the two sort of keeping each other some sort of silent company. ITrapped didn’t reveal why 007n7 was really here. He was sure Elliot would tell the others if he did.

After a few minutes, Elliot sat back up. ITrapped assumed they were heading back to the party downstairs, and henceforth followed the man. However, as soon as they were at the bottom of the stairs, a yell rang out across the room.

“Mister ice!!!” The red demon had come back, and hugged ITrappeds legs, hiding.

“What?! What’s the meaning of this-“

Charlotte piped up, “there’s something in the water!”

Elliot turned to ITrapped, “What’s going on?”

“I sent them to the river because I didn’t wanna play ‘games’ with them,” ITrapped whispered, before turning his attention back to the kid, “What was in the water?”

“Bones!” Charlotte screamed, “there’s bones in the river!..”

 

Chance and Seven were talking when the lights suddenly dimmed down. Seven became confused, looking towards Chance. Their expression had now become bored looking, and the hacker tilt his head. He looked ahead of him, and now at the spotlight on the main staircase was a gray robloxian. She was dressed in a fancy black, sparkly dress. The man beside her matched her. There was a small glass of wine in her hand, and she began to speak.

“I must say, I have to thank you all for coming tonight,” she began, placing a hand on her chest, “this night has been one of the best we’ve had the honor to hold so far.”

“Who’s that?” The hacker lowered his tone, turning to Chance.

“It’s my mom,” the gambler mumbled, not looking too happy about it.

“I would like to announce 100 years of service to the security of the Banlands for our family!” The party cheered and clapped.

“I must say though, this all couldn’t have been possible without a very special someone..”

As she continued talking, Chance suddenly elbowed him. Seven perked up, seeing the gambler once again grinning. They seemed to smile a lot, the hacker had observed.

“You wanna go somewhere else?” They hushed, nudging the mans elbow and peering over towards the stairs.

“You don’t wanna stay?” He questioned.

“I’ve heard this speech a million times. Besides, you’re not exactly listening either.”

They got up, before quickly making their way up and around where Ryala was giving the speech. Upstairs, Chance glanced around. Up on the ceiling was an attic door, which they had approached with purpose. They grasped ahold of the small hilt, opening it with a creak. A ladder had flopped down with a thunk against the carpet.

“Why are we going up in the attic?” Seven questioned, a little confused.

“I wanna show you something, it’s pretty cool. I think so, anyway.” They climbed up the ladder, it shuddering a little under their weight.

At this point he was debating on following the gambler further. This felt like he was gonna get kidnapped, or that this was some sort of trap. Seven climbed the ladder, though it wobbled a little more as he went up. Both of them had entered the space, which seemed way too big for an attic. The place was very dusty, and there was a few cobwebs near the ceiling placed sporadically. The hacker fidgeted with his hands.

The gambler went over to a dusty old shelf in the corner, before grabbing and bringing out a few golden trophies. They posed with them like they had won them themselves.

“Some of my family tried out for a lot of things, a few sports,” they began, before putting them back, “I’ve never been athletic, my cousins have though.”

“Never been athletic either.” Seven remarked, though in a much lower tone of voice than Chances.

They then walked over to a large shelf filled with what seemed to be random trinkets and prizes. A few golden watches, some items that looked like antiques, and some that seemed to be wasting away from the aches of time.

“My family had also ran casinos for as long as we’ve lived. This is stuff that we’ve won from other rival casinos,” Chance then laughed, “I even got one myself!”

“Really? What’d you win?”

The gambler then became a little awkward, “ah, well, didn’t really win it. More of stole it, but .. whatever! It’s my rabbit, Spade.”

Seven smiled softly, “a rabbit?.. I’ve never had a pet growing up. I know c00lkidd wants a dog but, if I’m being honest, they sound like a lot of work that I don’t want to waste.”

“That’s fair, pets aren’t for everyone. Maybe get him a fish! Kids like fish right?”

“Haha, I would but I’m scared he’d start eating it,” Seven laughed, both joking and telling the truth.

Chance laughed aswell, placing a hand on the hackers shoulder to stabilize himself. He was glad, in a way, that he had caused them to laugh aswell hard as they were now. Friends were hard to come by nowadays, and it felt like he could confide in the gambler.

His face became a little red thinking about it.

The gambler took a while to regain their composure, but once they did, they sat down on the attic. Seven joined them, leaning against the shelf of stolen antiques.

“Y’know, as much as I’ve talked about my life, I don’t think you’ve really mentioned yours,” Chance mentioned, turning to him.

“Oh? Me? Ah, my childhood wasn’t anything special.. definitely not as much as yours.”

“Well I still wanna know! You’re my friend afterall.”

“We’re friends?” Seven asked.

“Why wouldn’t we be?” Chance shrugged.

“Well,” the hacker sighed, “I’m kinda an orphan.”

There was a loud silence.

“Sorry, I told you that it’s not anything special. Sorry..” the hacker slightly shrunk.

“No no, it’s fine I just wasn’t expecting it to be.. that blunt.” They waved their hands, reassuring the hacker he hadn’t done anything wrong.

“No one usually does. Most expect me to have grown up in a house, but I grew up in an overcrowded orphanage.”

“I was around 6 when I was abandoned. Grew up always trying to appeal to the couples that came in looking for kids. No one ever chose me though, not long enough to really call a place home.”

Seven continued on, “The rest of it is pretty much history from there. I hacked, I exploited.. though I did it an attempt for people to.. see me you know?”

Chance stayed silent for a minute, before commenting, “I know how that feels. My parents didn’t exactly care what I did or who I hanged out with. Dismissed me without a care in the world.. I’m sorry about that Seven.”

“It’s fine, really,” Seven remarked, “just the way life is sometimes.”

“No, really, I’m sorry you had to go through that man.”

..The hacker stared for a good minute. It felt rare that someone understood what that felt like, or at least understood how he felt. Sevens tail wagged again, a smile forming on his face. Out of his perspective, he noticed something. A large painting in the corner of the attic, though deliberately hidden in the corner. Sevens head turned to it, before standing back up. Chances eyes followed him, wondering what it was that caught the hackers eye.

The hacker walked over to it, grabbing it and bringing it to the light. The painting was dusty, very very dusty, but seemed to be beautiful underneath it all. Seven wiped the dust with his sleeve, revealing the paint underneath. A robloxian with a blue shirt and black jeans, standing in a giant flower field.

“Did someone in your family paint this?” Seven asked, holding it up to Chance, who had now stood up.

“..No. I actually haven’t seen this thing before. I mean I can ask my parents about it but I’m not even sure if they’d know.” Chance took a closer look at the painting.

Outside, what the party hadn’t noticed was that a storm was beginning to brew outside. Slowly, the wind had picked up, and as lightning struck outside, Seven had flinched and accidentally dropped the painting. The painting hitting the attic floor caused a loud crash, and suddenly, it was deathly quiet.

Then, screams came from downstairs, Chance clambered back down from the attic, panic in his footsteps. The hacker followed close behind, his ears lowered and seeming on edge. Something was wrong, panic had seemingly overtaken the people. Chance had ran out and called out first.

“What?? What’s wrong, what’s going on?”

Meanwhile, Seven had taken in the details of the area. Builderman, who was presumably once nearby Chances parents during the speech, had now backed away, looking behind them in shock and fear. Sevens eyes followed to where he was looking.

The wall near the main staircase now bore a painting that the hacker hadn’t recalled seeing before. It seemed to be a painting of the very ballroom that the party hadn’t noticed taken place in, but it wasn’t just the location, it was who was in the painting.

Ryala and Smith Jacett, looking oddly out of place and oddly too realistic for the painting. His shoulders slumped, slight shock taking over.

And it turned to panic when he saw them shudder inside the painting.