Welcome to the past... Back in a time before King's rise to power, the Minecraft Glitch Incident, Pink is still alive, Navy never left, and sticks entering Minecraft is little more than an urban legend. Back to when Purple and Gold, two brothers in the PBCU, were little more than classmates in the same grade in the same school, unaware of each other's existence until one moment in particular. Will the two of them become dear friends or will one toxic influence drive a wedge between the two?
Chapter 1 (Gold)[]
It was another typical Monday. After getting up early and eating a quick breakfast, Dad had me get dressed and reminded me to not forget my homework. I had it in my backpack, which I slung over my shoulder into the trunk of our car, and Dad took me to school. Even now, just starting my second week, I missed summer. It was nice seeing my friends, but school is far from my favorite thing to do and they were already piling on the homework. This is not what I expected of Middle School when I dreamed about it the year prior, but there was no use complaining. I tried escaping before, so Dad was wise to that. He knows me well, and has never allowed me to try a stunt twice. As we rode, Dad spoke up.
“You excited, Goldy?”
“About what?”
“About school.” Dad answered. “Seeing your friends, playing sports with them, doing homework…” He teased.
“Yes, I am over the moon about that last thing.” I replied sarcastically. Dad laughed.
“Hey, don’t be like that. You never know what each day might bring.”
“Like the school bully…” I muttered. There’s always that one kid that deems themselves as superior for whatever reason and likes flexing it on the other kids like me. He did it last week, resulting in both of us getting detention when I tried defending myself.
“I’ve talked to your teachers about that.” Dad insisted comfortingly.
“And you believe they’ll do something about it?”
“I want to…” Dad said. “Tell you what, if this bully picks on you again, I’ll talk to them and their parents, maybe even the principal if I have to.”
“Dad, please, don’t make a scene…” I moaned, a bit embarrassed.
“Would you rather be their punching bag and get detention? You’re a good kid, I know you don’t like that.”
I sighed resignedly. He had me there, I didn’t enjoy getting detention my first week. Dad was understanding, thankfully, but I was more disappointed in myself. I’m a better student than that.
“OK, Dad… I doubt things will change though.”
“Well, why don’t you be that change?”
“What do you mean?”
“If this bully is on the prowl, lurking like a sneaky dragon,” He liked to use dragon analogies to keep my attention, “stand up, stand for those who can’t stand for themselves.” Dad explained.
“Dad, I… Can’t do that.” I insisted.
“Goldy, I never knew you to be fearful. I mean, you have a bit of a reputation for jumping off various playground equipment.” Dad said. “You are strong, you are brave, you are courageous, I’m confident you can do it.”
“I will… Try…” I replied, still quite fearful.
“Good.” Dad said, pulling up to the front doors of school. “Well, we’re here.” I hopped out of the car, grabbed my backpack, and began heading for the doors.
“Bye, Dad!”
“Hold on, kiddo.” Dad said. “A hug for your Dad?”
“Daaad…” I moaned, rolling my eyes. But, looking at his gentle face, I complied and hugged him. He hugged and kissed me back and bid me good-bye as I entered school. He entered his car and drove off to his work.
School was mostly the same: The same walls, the same announcements, the same boring vibes I get from it. I usually arrive early since Dad works and school is on the way to his job. Since I was early, I sat down in the hall scribbling something on a piece of paper when I heard a familiar, friendly voice.
“Hey, Gold the Bold!”
I looked up and saw my blueish-green friend, Tee L., walking toward me. I got up and did a brotherly handshake.
“Hey, Tee. Good to see you.”
“You too, Gold.” He sighed. “So, what’s on the agenda today? What do I have to stop you from doing?” Tee always has been a rule-stickler, and considering his dad’s a police officer, I can’t say I blame him.
“I haven’t decided yet.” I confessed. “It’s too early for this stuff.”
“Well, whenever you do something crazy, let me know. Gotta talk some sense into you.”
“You sound like my dad.” I chuckled. We laughed. At that moment, another one of my friends, a gleaming shiny gray stick walked up.
“Morning, boys.” She said.
“Hi, Sylvie.” Tee and I replied in unison. Sylvie is the third in our friend group, but Sylvie is just a nickname for her. Her name is Silver, and I’ve had a slight crush on her for a while now. “Jinx! Jinx!” I won the jinx battle, as I usually do.
“Dang it!” Tee moaned. “OK, what kind of soda today?”
“The most expensive in the vending machine.” I joked.
“Good one, Gold.” Sylvie said. “So… What’s going on this week?”
“Nothing of note as of yet.” Sylvie answered. She’s super smart–both school smart and street smart–and risky, though her risks are more calculated than anything. “But I did hear we’ve gotten a new transfer student.”
“More fodder for Maroon.” Tee shuddered. Maroon was the guy I had a “run-in” with last week, the stereotypical school bully. “And his lackeys.”
“I wonder who it is.” I said thoughtfully. “Might be a great friend.”
“There’s Gold, the ever-present adventurer.” Sylvie complimented.
We chatted for a while as more students and faculty flowed into the school. It is a public school, so there’s a wide variety of us, sticks of all shapes, sizes, and colors, but eventually, it was almost time for class.
“Shall we get to class?” I asked.
“Wait… What’s going on?” Sylvie pointed at a trio of sticks surrounding two more. I recognized them instantly: Maroon and his cronies, Jet Black and Ray Zin, a deep black and purple stick respectively, but the other two, the victims… I was a bit fuzzy on them. It was a big school, so it’s practically impossible to know everyone in this building. I walked toward them.
“Gold, what are you doing?” Tee asked.
“I told my dad I’d stand up for Maroon’s victims.” I answered. “I’ve practiced sparring with my dad, I can handle myself.”
As I approached, I heard Maroon’s distinct voice.
“Well, well, look who we have here.” Maroon mocked. “Fresh meat.” His friends cackled.
“Knock it off, guys!” One of the victims, a bright purple stick, protested. “Autumn hasn’t done anything to you!”
“Ooooh, look at that! Nerd-ple has a Misprint friend.” Maroon mocked. As I got closer, I realized the purple stick’s friend was a trio of bright colors, red, orange, and yellow, spattered about randomly. “What are you gonna do, call your daddy? We all know you’re no fighter.”
The bullies jeered. The purple stick looked like he wanted to curl up and cry, and so did the other stick, seemingly called Autumn. I felt rage well up in me.
“Leave them alone, you maroon!” I shouted. “You’re just insecure your name doubles as an insult!”
Maroon turned and his bright red eyes met mine.
“Well well, if it isn’t Moldy Goldy.” He mocked. “Jet, Ray, keep an eye on these two, I have to teach this punk a lesson.” He stepped toward me, his imposing stature towering over me. I backed away into a wall. “You just had to fight back, had to get me caught by a teacher, had to throw me under the bus.”
“You started it!” I protested.
“And now I’m gonna finish it.”
He pulled his fist back, about to deliver a punch square to my face, but with Dad’s training over the summer, I know how to counter. With a split-second to spare, I ducked, and instead of getting a fistful of me, he got a fistful of brick wall.
What followed was the loudest, highest-pitched scream I’ve ever heard, even higher than Sylvie. I imagine he broke several fingers with that punch, and he quickly ran off, Jet and Ray right behind him. My friends and I couldn’t help but laugh.
“You got that on video, right, Sylvie?” I asked her. She likes getting anything on video. Savor the moments, she claims, and re-savor them in video form.
“Every moment.” She answered. We celebrated our victory and I ran over to Maroon’s victims, the bright purple and tricolored sticks, who were crouched on the ground, almost in tears. Tee and Sylvie were right behind me.
“Are you two OK?” I asked gently, crouching down.
“We will be…” The purple stick sniffled, wiping tears from his eyes. “Thanks for standing up for me, it’s a rarity for me it seems like…”
“Don’t worry, I doubt Maroon will be messing with you for a while.” Tee assured them. “If he does, he’ll have to face Gold the Bold over here.” He put his hands on my shoulders and shook me playfully. I laughed.
“C’mon. Let me help you up.” Sylvie said, grabbing them by the hand and lifting them up one at a time. “I don’t recall seeing you here.”
“I’m… new here…” The tricolored stick said. It turned out she was a girl.
“What are your classes?” I asked.
“I have… Math at 8:00.” the purple stick said.
“Hey, I do too! And so does Tee here.” I replied, gesturing to Tee. “I can’t recall ever seeing you though.”
“I sit in the back.” He replied.
“Ah, that makes sense.” I reasoned. “I’m Gold, by the way, and these are my friends, Sylvie and Tee.”
“Hi!” Sylvie and Tee said in unison.
“Nice to meet you.” The girl said, a little nervous. I noticed she didn’t make much eye contact, but that could be just shyness.
“What are your names?” I asked gently.
“This is Autumn,” the purple stick explained, “and I’m Purple. Purple Seal. Nice to meet you.”
Chapter 2 (Purple)[]
Gold, Tee, and I headed to math class, the first two being so kind and gentle to me. I didn’t understand why, as I had a reputation of sorts, bad rumors that have followed me since elementary school. And the worst part of it was it wasn’t even my fault, it wasn’t anything I did, it’s just my dad’s extreme way of showing his love for me.
My reputation started back in elementary school, when one of my smarter friends–a Misprint–was helping me with homework while I waited for my mom to pick me up. Except it wasn’t Mom who showed up, but Dad, and boy, he was not happy seeing me get help on a subject I have always hated. Dad told my friend off for helping me, and though I tried defending him, Dad didn’t want to hear it.
“Purple, what have I told you about getting help? Life doesn’t give you lifelines. Push through! Work harder! Fight harder! I don’t want a wuss for a son, hanging out with ‘friends’ who stunt your growth and maturity.”
“Dad, I needed help with this.” I protested.
“Don’t talk back to me, Purple!” Dad thundered. “And you know the consequences for the homework help. An extra hour of training. Outside.” It was early in the school year at the time and Stick City was experiencing an unexpected heatwave. This was going to be harsh, but fair.
“Yes, sir.” I said sheepishly.
“And another 30 minutes for talking back. Now, get in the car, I need a word with your Misprint ‘friend’ and his parents.”
I obeyed Dad’s orders. I didn’t hear the rest of the conversation Dad had with my friend, but he was pretty shaken by the whole experience. He wouldn’t even hang out with me afterwards, and news spread through the school like wildfire, a fire that’s burned for years now. No one wanted to hang out with me, for fear my dad would find out and do the same thing to them what Dad did to my old friend. I’ve been a bit of a loner ever since, pushing myself harder and harder to please him. He does love me, he truly does. He wants what’s best for me and is training me for the real world. Heck, Mom claims the same thing, she wants what’s best for me, too. Is that not what love is?
Even despite all that, Gold and Tee were actually willing to talk to me while Sylvie led Autumn around. Autumn is a new student here, someone who didn’t know of my reputation. I figured I might be able to strike up a friendship with her. It’d be nice to actually have someone to talk to, especially watching everyone else on various lunch tables talking, laughing, playing cards and all that fun stuff. I just hoped to keep this friendship secret. Considering what happened the first time I befriended a Misprint, I don’t want to know how Dad would react if he ever found out about Autumn. I’m taking a massive risk here, but I was making sure to cover my tracks.
As we strolled to our math class, Gold spoke up.
“So, Purple, do you like math?”
“It’s… not my favorite, I’ll be honest.” I confessed.
“I once didn’t like it, either. That is, until I realized… My dream is going to require math, lots of it.” Gold explained. “My dad told me as much.”
“What dream is that?”
“I want to become a pilot.” Gold explained. “I never knew how complicated it was going to be, but I’m willing to try my hardest to achieve it.”
“You’ve got big aspirations…” I noted, “but what if you don’t make it? The risk?”
“Purple, my friend, Gold looks at risk and charges head-first into it.” Tee said. “Gold the Bold, I like to call him.”
“C’mon, dude, I’m not that bold.” Gold insisted.
“I beg to differ, dude.” Tee argued. “Purple, you can break the tie. Hang out with us long enough and you’ll see some of his stunts.”
“I might already have, though with so many shades of yellow in this massive school, it’s impossible to keep them all straight.” I replied. Gold and Tee nodded in agreement. “Unless you’re this one girl in art class… I heard she can identify colors just by looking at them, it’s kinda impressive…”
“Fair enough.” Gold replied. “Oh, we’re here. Shall we?”
Gold, Tee, and I entered our math class and took our seats. More classes followed, the same routine until lunch. Even during lunch, I thought it was going to be the same thing: sit at the same empty table with a familiar lunch until I was approached by Tee, Sylvie, Autumn and… Gold.
“Are these seats taken?” Gold asked cheerfully. I was surprised. No one had given me the time of day until now.
“Umm… No, I guess…” They took seats around and across from me.
“What’d you get, Purple?” Tee asked.
“Floppy pizza.” I answered.
“I suspect it’s made of cardboard.” Sylvie joked. “No pizza should be this consistency.” Tee and Gold chuckled.
“No one knows what school lunches are made of.” Gold explained. “Not even the lunch people themselves.”
“No pizza for you, Autumn?” Tee asked her.
“Afraid not… Uh… Tee, was it?” Tee nodded yes. “Forgive me, I’m not good with names. It might take days to get your names right.”
“No worries, dude. We’re all friends here.” Tee insisted.
“Yeah, no pizza. I can’t, I have allergies.” Autumn explained.
“Aww, I’m sorry to hear that.” Sylvie sympathized.
“Don’t me. I don’t have to eat what you call cardboard.” Autumn replied. The others laughed, but I stayed quiet. I couldn’t imagine why these guys were hanging out with me, let alone calling me a friend.
“Hey, Purple, you OK?” Gold asked gently. “You’ve been quiet.”
“I just can’t comprehend.”
“Can’t comprehend what?” Sylvie asked.
“Why you four are eating lunch with me.”
“Because you’re a nice person.” Tee explained. “Good call on that one, Gold.”
“My dad always says, ‘Be a friend to everyone. Especially those without them.’” Gold said. “I’d imagine if he could see me now, he’d be over the moon with pride.”
“Really?” I asked. My dad seeing me anywhere within 10 feet of a Misprint would probably make me train harder. Good thing I’m keeping this friendship under wraps.
“Yeah, my parents would be proud, too.” Tee confirmed. “For once, Gold, you had a good idea.” Sylvie nodded in agreement, snickering.
“I will say, it is nice meeting you all.” Autumn confessed. “It’s not easy fitting into a school full of Regulars.”
“Well, there is a school for sticks like you.” Sylvie suggested.
“That’s where I was, until the cost of it rose out of our range.” Autumn explained. “We had to go for something cheaper, hence why I’m here.”
“I hope the transition is easy for you.” Gold said.
“It’s been like a cold shower at first, I’ll admit, but meeting you all, it’s helping me.” Autumn said sweetly. “Purple, you’ve got a great friend group.”
“This is the first time I’ve had friends in a while.” I said distantly.
“Wait, what? What do you mean, Purple?” Tee asked.
“I think I heard about something a while ago…” Sylvie said thoughtfully. “As far as I know, they’re nothing more than rumors. I haven’t seen any proof of them myself.”
“What have you heard?” I asked.
“It’s about your dad…” She said cautiously.
“What about him?” I asked, my temper rising.
Sylvie glanced around the table.
“Do you want me to say it? The rumors, I mean…” My blood boiled at this. What was she insinuating? Whatever it was, I wasn’t having any of it.
“I know the rumors, and let me be clear, my dad loves me dearly!” I protested. “He is training me for the real world! And in the real world, you don’t have ‘support groups’ that you can fall back on. Push through! Work harder! Fight harder! That’s how to get through life, and I don’t need anyone to support me! I have my dad! He knows what he’s doing, and I won’t hear anything otherwise!”
The others froze, looking at me in shock. I breathed deeply.
“I knew this was a mistake.”
I picked up my tray, my food not fully eaten, and stormed off, tossing the leftover food in the garbage. I left the cafeteria and didn’t look back, instead searching the halls for my next class and taking a seat in my seat.
“Dad’s right…” I breathed. “I don’t need anyone else. I just need to work harder… I need to overcome my deficiencies… I need to grind it out.”
I buried myself in homework during the remaining minutes of the lunch hour and the day of classes picked back up.
Chapter 3 (Third Person)[]
Gold, Tee, Sylvie, and Autumn watched in shock as Purple stormed away, sloppily disposing of his food in a garbage can and leaving the cafeteria. They glanced at each other, unable to speak or even react for a long moment before Sylvie spoke up.
“Oh… my… gosh… did I do that?” She squeaked.
“It wasn’t your fault, Sylvie.” Gold said comfortingly. “You couldn’t have known how sensitive he was about it.”
“Should we chase him down?” Autumn asked. “He was the first stick to take me under his wing at this new school…”
“I think we should find him.” Tee agreed. “And apologize. Does anyone know if they have a class with him?”
They all shrugged. Class sizes were relatively big and Purple always remained quiet, hiding in the back, as if he wasn’t there, but they agreed that if they did see him, they’d try to chase him down and apologize. There was little that could be done now, except finish up their lunch. After they did, they disposed of their trash and went to their respective classes.
As the day wore on, Tee realized he had a class with Purple, and Sylvie did as well, but whenever the two of them tried to reach out to him, Purple ignored them and bolted to his next class. All of it was wearing deeply on Sylvie, who partially blamed herself for what happened. Gold was supportive every step of the way, but Sylvie couldn’t shake it. This made Gold all the more determined to find Purple and make amends. He couldn’t bear to see his dear friend this distraught. Luckily for Gold, he knew the exact stick who could find him, a stick who was great with colors, a stick who could tell royal blue from navy blue from cobalt blue, and he had an art class with her as the day wound down.
“Maggie!” Gold called as he entered the classroom. Maggie, short for Magenta, was always early for art class. She had a love and passion for art and was one of the best artists in the school. The fact that she was a grade above him–their art class accepted both 7th and 8th graders–helped with that.
“Magenta!” Gold shouted, running up to her. “I need your help.”
“Oh, hey there, Gold.” Magenta replied. “What’s up?”
“I’ve been looking for a friend, Purple is his name. I figured since you’re so good with colors, you could find him better than I could.”
“I can try. You know how big this school is.”
“I’m willing to try anything at this point.” Gold confessed. “I fear I screwed up big time and I need to make it right.”
“Aw, I’m sorry to hear that.” Magenta sympathized. “Yeah, I’ll do what I can for you.”
“Thanks, Maggie.”
The last few classes of the day ended, with little to no sight of Purple from the four friends. Gold was devastated, but not more than Sylvie, who was heartbroken. She feared she lost a friend, but near the end of the day, Magenta came in clutch. In a massive sea of sticks leaving for the buses and their parents, Magenta spotted one Purple Seal in the crowd.
“Gold! Gold!” She called. Gold ran up, Tee, Sylvie, and Autumn right behind him. “Purple’s over there! Waiting by the doorway!”
“Awesome. Thanks, Maggie!”
“You’re welcome.” She replied, soon noticing Autumn. “Ooooh, what vibrant colors! I love your exquisite color palette!”
“Really? You do?” Autumn asked.
“Genuinely, yes. It’s so beautiful!” Magenta gushed. Autumn blushed, quite embarrassed. She had never thought of her color scheme as beautiful before. Having grown up with it, it was just natural for her.
“Guys, go on without me. I want a bit of girl time, if you don’t mind.”
Gold nodded and he and his friends squeezed and weaved through the mass of sticks as it slowly thinned out and they finally reached Purple, waiting for his parents to pick him up.
“Purple!” Gold exclaimed. Purple turned around.
“Oh, great.” He muttered. “What do you want? Spread more rumors about my dad?”
“Purple…” Sylvie said breathlessly, tears in her eyes. “I’m sorry. I didn’t realize how sensitive it was to you. I promise I won’t mention it again.”
“We all apologize.” Tee added. “We just hope you can accept us as friends.”
“If you want to give us a chance, that is…” Gold said sadly. “But I understand if you don’t…”
Purple paused to think it over. He remembered how well lunch was going… and it made him realize how much he missed eating with friends. Or just having friends in general. His dad always saw friends as crutches, but his mom saw them as the exact opposite: just what we need when we need them. He was conflicted, and after a long, tense moment for the four of them, Purple finally spoke up.
“I think my mom would want me to have friends.” Purple noted. “She said as much when she dropped me off today… I forgive you guys.”
“Thanks, Purple.” Gold said, relieved. Sylvie cried tears of joy and Tee wrapped an arm around Purple, who flashed a smile for the first time since Gold rescued him from Maroon.
“No, Gold, thank you.” Purple said. “Thank you… for fending that bully off. I fear I might’ve been turned into grape juice if not for you.”
“What was that?” Thundered a voice from behind Purple. The four sticks were so distracted that they didn’t notice a tall, gruff-voiced, imposing navy blue stick figure lording over them.
“Dad!” Purple gasped.
“Dad?” Gold repeated.
“What are you doing here? I thought Mom was picking me up.” Purple wondered.
“She’s working late. It’s about time she earned her keep around here…” He muttered under his breath. “Who are these guys?”
“Uh… guys, my dad, Navy… er, Mr. Seal.” Purple introduced. “Dad, some… classmates of mine.” Purple carefully chose his words, not wanting his dad to erupt like a volcano.
“What was that about you needing help to fight off a bully?” Navy demanded. “Do you not remember our training?”
“He was much bigger than me, Dad…”
“That’s no excuse! What have I always told you?”
“Push through, work harder, fight harder.” Purple recited. “I wanted to fight, but I was outnumbered…”
“You know the punishment for making excuses, Purple. An additional 15 minutes of training for each one. Outside.” Navy growled.
“Sir, he needed help.” Gold protested. “The bully was going to deck him if I didn’t intervene.”
“Help from you?” Navy asked. “Purple, you needed help from this… thing?”
“No, I don’t know what he’s talking about.” Purple lied.
“Don’t lie to me!” Navy demanded. “What… Happened?” Purple sighed.
“Gold here stepped in on my behalf and stopped the bullies from attacking.”
“I see… because you couldn’t fight back…” Navy said. “What a pathetic excuse for a son…”
“Hey, don’t talk to my friend that way!” Gold protested.
“‘Friend?’ You dare tell me how to raise my son?!” Mr. Seal shouted.
“I promised my dad I’d stand up against bullies, like you.”
“Evidently your dad didn’t teach you to respect your elders.” Navy growled. “Purple, wait for me in the car. I need to teach your ‘friends’ how to show some respect.” Purple, quaking with fear, did as ordered. Navy bent down low, leaning toward Gold imposingly and threateningly, until Sylvie and Tee stepped between them.
“Get away from him!” Sylvie ordered.
“Yeah, back off!” Tee demanded. “My dad’s a cop. He won’t appreciate anyone assaulting minors, especially his son.”
“You think that’s gonna stop me?” Navy mocked. “Get out of the way before…”
“HEY!” Shouted another voice. Gold, Sylvie, Tee, and Navy turned and saw a tall, dark orange stick charging toward them. “Back away from my son!”
“Your son?” Navy said snakily. “You must be the yellow one’s father.”
“Yes, that’s my son! The name’s Mango,” Mango said tersely. “Now back off. I refuse to let anyone talk to him that way!”
Navy growled like a wolf and hissed like a snake… somehow at the same time.
“I was going anyway.” He scowled. “Teach your son to respect your elders.”
“How about you not threaten minors, you piece of… garbage?” Mango spat, pausing so that he didn’t accidentally swear in front of Gold and his friends.
Navy’s eyes narrowed and he glared at Mango.
“I needed to discipline my son anyway…” He turned and left for his car. Mango breathed deeply. Once Navy was a safe distance away, Mango dropped to his knees and hugged his son, tears flowing down both of their faces.
“Goldy! Are you OK?”
“I’m fine, Dad, if only a little shaken. Thanks.”
“Jeez, Goldy, I know you’re adventurous, but that was a whole ‘nother level.” Tee noted.
“Let’s not EVER do that again, OK?” Sylvie suggested.
“Yes, I would be more than happy to not have to deal with that again.” Mango said tearfully.
“But… Purple…” Gold said distantly.
“Purple?” Mango repeated, releasing his son.
“I made a friend today, Dad! I stood up for him against a bully!” Gold squealed proudly.
“That’s my boy.” Mango applauded, beaming with pride.
“Thanks, Dad.” Gold replied. “Purple’s a good guy. I want to stay friends with him.”
“I’m sure you will. You’re a great kid.” Mango praised. Gold blushed with embarrassment.
“Daaad, not in front of my friends…” Gold moaned.
“Let them hear this.” Mango gushed. “And thank you both, Silver, Tee, for stepping in when you did.”
“Anything for a friend.” Tee replied. Sylvie nodded in agreement.
“We’ll always be here for Goldy here.” She added.
“I appreciate you both.” Mango said gratefully. He then stood up and saw someone coming. “Oh, Silver, I think that’s your mom coming… and is that Charcoal, your little brother?” He pointed at a deep gray stick approaching and a smaller, younger, dark gray stick racing toward them.
“Yep, that’s them.” She confirmed.
“Sylvie!” Charcoal exclaimed, hugging his big sister. There was a relatively big age gap between the two, but they still got along great, Charcoal–Cole for short–looking up to his big sister like a role model.
“Hey there, Cole. Good to see you, little bro.” She gave him a little noogie. “Hi, Mom.”
“Hi, Mrs. Grey.” Gold and Tee said as Sylvie’s mom approached.
“Hey there, kids.” Mrs. Grey greeted. “Mango, good to see you.”
“You as well, Ash.” Mango replied. “How’s your husband?”
“Earl’s keeping busy. You know the restaurant business.” Ash shrugged. “But he loves his job. His business is thriving. Soon, it’ll overtake Stickbucks as the Outernet’s most popular coffee and tea shop.”
“Yep! Dad’s the greatest… uh… on-tra-pa-nure… ever!” Cole said, not fully knowing the word “entrepreneur.” Sylvie’s friends chuckled, and Sylvie herself nodded in agreement.
“Shall we head home, Sylvie? Cole?” Ash asked.
“Yeah, thanks Mom.” Sylvie confirmed. “Bye, boys!” She waved good-bye.
“See you tomorrow, Sylvie!” Gold and Tee waved back and another stick–this one an eye-catching green–approached.
“There’s my sweet Tee!” She gushed.
“Mooom…” Tee moaned, deeply embarrassed. “What have I said about pet names at school?”
“Hey, Jade here knows what a parent’s job is.” Mango joked.
“To embarrass their kids…” Gold finished. “I know it well as well.”
“Thanks, Mango.” Jade said. “Ready, Tee?”
“Yep. Let’s go home.”
“Oh, Jade,” Mango interrupted, “tell Roy thanks from the Tango family. We appreciate what he does.”
“I’ll be sure to do that.” Jade replied. “Having a husband who’s a cop doesn’t help my nerves, but it’s nice to know that people do appreciate what he does.”
“He’s a good cop and an even better person. I’m glad our sons can be such great friends.” Mango added.
“I am as well. Goldy’s such a great kid.” Jade praised. Gold blushed.
“So is Tee, but I shouldn’t be holding you guys up. Talk to you later.”
“See you, Mango!” Jade called as she left for her car, Tee right behind her, leaving just the Tango clan.
“Well, Goldy, ready to go?”
“Yeah, Dad.” Gold answered. The two walked to their car and got in, Mango starting the drive home.
“So… How was your day, kiddo? Anything exciting happen?”
“I took your advice, Dad, I stood up for someone and made a couple new friends in the process.”
“So I heard. I’m impressed… and so proud of you.” Mango praised. “I didn’t see them, though. Did they leave early?”
“Well… One of them was talking to another friend.” Gold explained. “The other… I mentioned him, his name is Purple…” His voice trailed off.
“You OK, Goldy?” Mango asked.
“You remember the dark blue guy?” Mango nodded, “that was Purple’s dad.”
“Really?” Mango said, surprised. “Oh jeez…” He paused, carefully choosing his words. “You know, Goldy, you shouldn’t judge someone based on a first impression, but… He gave me some harsh vibes, as the kids say.”
“I agree. He freaked me out.” Gold added, shuddering. “Dad, you should do something! Purple’s my friend… I’m worried about him…”
“Hmm… Maybe tomorrow we can swing by, pay him a visit. I mean, people get angry all the time. Even me. It could’ve just been a loss of control, tempers flaring… or worse…”
“What do you mean, Dad?”
“I don’t want to speculate, kiddo, but let’s just say… the worst-case scenario is bleak for your friend.” Mango said gravely. “If I see your friend Purple or either of his parents… I’ll talk to them. As for you, Goldy, be his friend, and try not to bring this subject up. I’d imagine he needs friends right about now, and he’s got none better than you.”
Chapter 4 (Third Person)[]
Navy drove Purple home, the two of them not saying a word to each other on the way. Navy had planned to confront Purple for his deficiencies when they got back, before their training started. As they rolled into their driveway, Navy parked and turned around to look at Purple.
“Purple, Purple, Purple…” Navy demeaned. “What have I told you about making friends?”
“They’re a crutch that stunt your growth.” Purple recited. “But Mom says-”
“Oh, so you’re not going to listen to me.” Navy said. “You don’t appreciate my advice, is that it?”
“No, not at all, Dad.”
“So why don’t you listen to it?”
“I didn’t want friends. They came to me.”
“Hmm…” Navy thought. “I’ll have to have a word with each of them and their parents. No one taints my son with their mushy-gushy sympathy. You know the first rule of life, Purple. No… f*****g… mercy.”
“Yes, Dad.” Purple replied. “I promise, I won’t be hanging out with them any more.”
“Good. Now, let’s get to training. I refuse to have a weak son.”
Purple and Navy stepped out of the car and made it to the backyard, where the two of them practiced their sparring. Navy was ruthless and relentless, pinning Purple down multiple times and giving him several cuts and bruises. Navy, however, was uncaring. “Get up,” he would always say. “Rub some dirt on it and move on.” Purple obeyed and continued fighting, Navy demeaning his every move. “Faster reflexes! Your footwork is sloppy. Counter harder!” were just a few of Navy’s many demands. After a long session, Purple was done and he headed inside, dirty, scratched, scarred, and sweaty from it all. As he grabbed a towel from the kitchen and wiped his face off, his mom, Pink, returned home from work. Purple heard the door open and ran over to greet her.
“Mom!” He exclaimed, hugging her.
“Purple!” She hugged him back. “How was your day, sweetie?”
“It was good.” Purple answered. The two let go of each other.
“Purple, you’re a mess! What happened?” At that moment, Navy walked in.
“I was training my son.” He said tersely.
“You mean our son.” She said. “Navy, could you please not go so hard on him? He’s just a kid.”
“Are you questioning my parenting methods?” Navy demanded to know.
“No, no, not at all, Navy, I just…”
“You know, I don’t have to raise him. I could walk out at any point, and you and I both know you can’t raise him on your own, so I suggest you keep your mouth shut and make me some dinner before something happens that you’ll regret.”
“Sure thing, Navy.” Pink hurried off to the kitchen while Navy plopped himself down in front of the TV. Purple went to the bathroom to shower the dirt and blood off of him and a little later, the three of them gathered around and ate the dinner Pink prepared.
“Great food, Mom.” Purple complimented.
“I’ve had better.” Navy muttered. “It’s tastes like s***. Ever heard of salt, Pink?”
“I put some in there.” Pink argued.
“Well you didn’t put enough!” Navy thundered, causing Pink and Purple to cower in fear. Navy sighed deeply. “Another dud, Pink. I don’t have to deal with this f*****g s***.” He got up and headed for the door.
“Wait, Navy!” Pink called out, but her cries fell on deaf ears. He left the house, slamming the door behind him, and got in the car, driving himself to a nearby bar.
“Ugh, he’ll probably come home wasted… again…” Pink said, annoyed.
“Mom… It’s not your fault.” Purple sympathized.
“Sometimes there’s just no pleasing that man. What did I ever see in him?” Pink muttered under her breath.
“Mom, it’s my fault. Dad was in a bad mood because I made friends at school.”
“Oh, Purple, don’t blame yourself. That’s a good thing, making friends, and you should.”
“Dad says they’ll just stunt my growth.”
“That’s not true.” Pink insisted. “We all need people in our lives, no matter what your dad says.”
“I don’t.” Purple insisted. “I’m strong! I’m strong enough to do it on my own! I’ll prove it to Dad!”
“Purple…”
“And I’ll start with the homework I have to do.” Purple said, getting up and going upstairs. Pink sighed deeply.
“He looks up to his father so much…” Pink said to herself. “I need to talk to him more.”
She climbed the stairs and gently knocked on Purple’s door.
“Purple? Can we talk?”
“Yeah, sure thing, Mom.” Pink entered and sat down on his bed.
“I know you treat Dad’s words as gospel, but sometimes… We need people in our lives. You said you made friends today? Did you enjoy hanging out with them?” Purple gave it some thought.
“Yeah, I kinda did.”
“Building relationships isn’t a crutch. Even the biggest, strongest fighters have trainers to help them grow stronger. Having someone like that isn’t a bad thing, it’s only stick nature to seek out someone to talk to, to hang out with. I know your father claims that, but sometimes, your father has less than ideal advice.”
“No, not Dad. I love him and want to listen to him.”
“And I love you, Purple, and I don’t want you to be lonely. It can be a hard feeling to face.” Pink said.
“I can push through it.” Purple promised. “I’m strong!”
“Stronger with friends, and family, like me.” Pink said gently, wrapping an arm around Purple. “People make us stronger, not weaker, you got it?”
“I… suppose so… I’ll try to take your advice.”
“Good.” Pink replied, giving Purple a soft kiss on the head. “I love you, honey.”
“I love you too, Mom.”
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
The next day, Pink dropped Purple off at school, kissed him good-bye, and drove off to her work, promising to pick him up afterwards. Purple was still a little anxious, fearing that Navy would find out about his talk with Pink and his attempts to find friends. He figured he’d just keep them secret, just like with Autumn. Surely they would understand, seeing Navy firsthand… right?
With knots in his stomach, Purple decided to ask. He looked around and spotted the trio of Gold, Tee, and Sylvie in the hallway by their lockers, talking.
“Gold!” He called. The trio turned and saw him approach.
“Purple?” Gold wondered.
“Gold… First and foremost, I apologize for my dad’s behavior toward you and your friends… I understand if you want nothing to do with me…”
“Purple, nothing could be further from the truth.” Gold insisted. “We enjoyed hanging out with you, and we feel like you need a friend.”
“No one should be judged by their parent’s actions.” Tee added. “Some apples land in a different orchard than the tree, if that makes sense.”
“No, not really, but you never have, Tee.” Sylvie joked. Tee shot her a look. “Purple, we forgive you, and we’d love to be your friend.”
“Thanks, guys, just keep it secret.” Purple insisted. “I fear what Dad will do to you if he knew about this…”
“Purple, please don’t take this the wrong way…” Gold began, “but what’s your dad’s problem? My dad would love for me to branch out and make friends. Yours?”
“Gold!” Tee reprimanded. “What the heck, dude?”
“What?” Gold asked defensively.
“It’s fine,” Purple said. “He wants me to be strong. It’s just that he and my mom have different views of what ‘strong’ is.”
“What do you think it is?” Sylvie asked. Purple paused.
“I… I’m still trying to figure that out.” Purple confessed. “Hey, where’s Autumn?”
“She’s in the library.” Sylvie answered. “She and a friend of Gold’s, Magenta, have formed a fast friendship.”
“That’s good to hear.” Purple said gratefully. “She’s a good friend, if only a little shy.”
“We all would be if we transferred to a different school.” Gold reasoned. The four of them nodded in agreement.
“It’s almost time for class.” Tee observed, checking his watch. “I’m not gonna be late!” He speed-walked toward his class, the others right behind him.
The rest of the day went as usual. The standard routine of classes throughout the morning until lunch, where the four of them, along with Magenta and Autumn, ate together, allowing the six of them to more properly meet each other. Purple found Magenta to be really sweet and polite, and Magenta saw similar in Purple. No doubt a strong friendship was blossoming, Gold figured, and it filled him up with pride that he could be a friend to Purple. He imagined his dad beaming with pride in him. This is what Mango would’ve wanted, after all. Plus, Mango wanted to meet Purple. Perhaps today would be the chance for them to meet.
Lunch soon ended and classes resumed, more humdrum classes and assignments came and went, nothing too eventful or out of place for anyone, relatively speaking. Gold was scheming how to make the best paper airplane possible during his science class instead of paying attention, but finally, the last bell rang and everyone poured out the many exits around the building. Amidst the mass of sticks, Purple, Gold, Tee, and Sylvie met up, Autumn and Magenta right behind.
“Hey, Purple!” Gold called, weaving through the sticks to reach him.
“Hey, Gold.” Purple replied. “Be careful, I don’t know if Dad’s coming or not.”
“Ooh, you’re right, you’re right.” Gold agreed. They stepped back inside. “Hey, speaking of which, my dad would love to meet you.” Purple was hesitant.
“Mr. Tango is a great guy, I’ve been over to his house multiple times.” Tee confirmed.
“Our parents are great friends.” Sylvie added. “As far as I can tell, he’s chill. I don’t usually pay attention to the parents talking.”
“Who does?” Gold shrugged. “So booooooring.” He returned his focus to Purple. “But, anyway, we were wondering if you wanted to hang out with us after school. Maybe play some games, Clue or something like that.”
“Games… You mean like training?” Purple asked.
“That… depends. What is training for you?” Gold wondered.
“Sparring, becoming a fighter, relentless fighting outside.” Purple answered.
“We can do that if you want,” Gold figured, “but if you want to do something else… We won’t force you. Besides, I don’t think my dad is that ruthless.”
“I’ll… think about it.” Purple answered.
“OK, cool.” Gold said. “You guys want to join us?” He asked his friends.
“Afraid I can’t, I got homework.” Magenta moaned. “Math is the worst, guys.”
“I consider myself decent with math.” Autumn suggested. “I’d be happy to help you with it.”
“Really?” Autumn nodded yes. “It’s 8th grade Algebra. Can you handle it?”
“I’ve always had a skill in numbers. My parents and teachers claim I have a gift.” Autumn explained. “It’s the least I could do for you, for being a friend even despite my colors.”
“Solid, multicolored, we’re all sticks at the end of the day,” Magenta replied, “fearfully and wonderfully made. If it’s OK with your parents, I’ll ask if you can hang out.”
“Sounds good.” Autumn confirmed. “Hey, Purple, thanks for actually stepping out and being willing to talk to me. I probably would not have otherwise.”
“You’re welcome. I’m glad to see you’ve found a good friend in Magenta.” Purple replied.
“I truly did.” Autumn confirmed.
As they waited, and the sticks left to their parents, Purple spotted a familiar shade of pink.
“Oh, there’s my mom.” He said.
“I’ll join you. My dad might be out there.” Gold replied.
Gold and his friends headed outside, where Pink was waiting for Purple.
“Purple!” She called. He ran and hugged her, his friends followed. “Who are these?”
“Mom, my friends, Gold, Tee, and Sylvie.” Purple introduced. “Gold here wanted to invite me over.”
“That’s fine with me, if it’s OK with his parents.” Pink confirmed.
“It should be more than OK.” Gold said.
“Hey, Gold, there’s your dad.” Tee pointed out. Mango walked toward them.
“Goldy!” He proclaimed.
“Hey, Dad!” Gold ran and hugged him. “Ooh, Dad, this is Purple and his mom.”
“I’m Pink, nice to meet you.” Pink said.
“Mango Tango, the pleasure is all mine.” He extended his hand to shake, but Pink was hesitant.
“You OK, Mom?” Purple asked.
“Yeah, sorry, I just… remembered something…” Pink answered, shaking Mango’s hand.
“I’m sure Gold invited Purple over by now. Is that OK if he hangs out for a little while?” Mango asked.
Pink was hesitant again, fearing Mango would be like Navy once again, but he seemed authentic and he seemed to genuinely love his son. She couldn’t even remember the last time Navy hugged Purple in a loving way, and not in a wrestling maneuver. Could Mango be worse than Navy? It might be a good chance for an escape, to get away from the toxic home and Purple’s toxic father. After some thought, Pink finally made a decision.
“Yeah… Just take your phone, Purple.”
“Yes!” Purple cheered, pumping his fist.
“Tee and Sylvie are welcome to join.” Gold added. “Right, Dad?”
“Of course, Goldy. Our home is their home.” Mango confirmed.
“We might have to share my StiXbox controllers, though.” Gold said, chuckling.
Chapter 5 (Third Person)[]
After getting approval from their parents, Mango drove the quartet of Gold, Tee, Sylvie, and Purple back home for a fun day of simply hanging out for the kids. On the drive back, Purple felt more and more at ease around Mango and his new friends, but what most surprised him was how casual and laid back Mango was. He seemed genuinely kind and gentle, some might even say friendly, to the kids. Purple noticed it, but figured he just had a different parenting style than his own dad. ‘All parents are different, I guess.’ He thought. ‘Maybe he’s more like Mom in that sense.’
After they returned, the kids ran inside and immediately decided to fire up Gold’s gaming console for some casual gaming. Purple didn’t have a gaming console, nor had he ever played on one, much to Gold’s surprise, but after getting a quick tutorial, Purple soon found his footing in one of their favorite racing games. Gold only had two controllers, so they had to share, but Purple didn’t seem to mind all too much. His mind was just overflowing with questions, wondering how his dad would react.
‘He’d probably call them wusses,’ He figured, ‘filled with mushy-gushy stuff. But if this is mushy-gushy… I don’t mind it all too much.’
Once their racing fun was over, Mango called them out to offer some games to play. Purple half expected to go outside and begin sparring, as that was what his dad sometimes called, “games,” but to his surprise, it was just a game of Clue. Purple didn’t understand it. Was he actually… having fun? What was this new sense he was feeling?
“Purple? You OK?” Mango gently asked. “You seem… distant.”
“Yeah, sorry, Sir…” Purple answered. “I just… can’t comprehend this feeling I’m feeling…”
“Could you describe it for us?” Gold asked.
“I don’t know… It just feels like… a new lease on life…” Purple explained.
“Aww, look at that.” Sylvie gushed. “Are you having fun, Purple?”
“Is that what this is?” Purple wondered.
“Jeez, dude…” Tee muttered to himself. “Uh, yeah. I’ve been having fun. I hope you have as well.”
“Ever played Clue before, Purple?” Gold asked.
“My dad says board games are a waste of time.” Purple answered. “Time that could be used to prepare for life.”
“You don’t have to play,” Mango offered. “You can always watch, or if you want to, you can call your mom, or I can drop you off.”
“No no, I’ll play. It’s just… Your family dynamic is so… weird to me.” Purple confessed. “Like, Gold, your dad doesn’t seem like he’s training you at all for the future.”
“Purple, Dad is training me.” Gold explained. “He gives me advice, love and support, he’s just doing it at my own pace.”
“We all need time to be a kid, Purple.” Mango added. “You’re only young once. Enjoy it while you can, because once you get to be my age…” He chuckled, “you’ll be wishing you were 12 again.”
“C’mon, guys, let’s play!” Tee interrupted eagerly. “Ooh, I’m Mr. Green, as per usual!”
Gold and Mango explained to Purple the rules of Clue and they played a game. Purple found it rather interesting, and he enjoyed it greatly. He seemed to be opening up a bit more, and he felt more alive than he had for a long time. He felt like a kid, he felt more and more like himself, not the fighter his dad wanted him to be.
The five of them played, joked, and laughed together, but before long, the parents came. Earl and Ash arrived for Sylvie and Roy picked up Tee, leaving just Purple. This was perfect for Mango, as he wanted to talk to him somewhat privately.
“Purple, do you have a minute?” Mango asked gently.
“I guess, Mr. Tango…” Purple shrugged.
“Gold, could you give us a minute?”
“Yeah, of course.” Gold replied, disappearing into his room. Mango sighed deeply.
“I mean this in the most loving way possible… But how’s your home life?”
“My home life?” Purple repeated.
“Yeah, like life with your parents. How do you like living with them?”
“I can’t imagine living with anyone else.” Purple answered. “They love me dearly… but they’re not like you.”
“What do you mean?”
“I’m sure you do this with Gold, but my dad trains me for the future, the real world. He wants me to push harder, to overcome my difficulties and be strong. You don’t seem like that. No offense.”
“None taken.” Mango replied. “The reason I ask is because I’m concerned. I met your dad the other day and… I didn’t like the way he yelled at my son. I just hope he doesn’t do that to you.”
“He gets like that sometimes. I apologize.” Purple said. “But he does love me, he truly does.”
“I believe you.” Mango said. “But… if you ever want to visit, my door is open. I’m sure Gold would love to hang out with you.”
“Thanks, Mr. Tango.”
“Mango, please, call me Mango.”
Around that time, Pink arrived to pick Purple up. He had a lot to think about. He could not understand Mango’s style of parenting. He was just so casual, so chill, so… loving? To Purple, the elder Tango seemed to genuinely adore his son and his friends. He hung out with them, played with them, didn’t force him to do anything, really. What was up with that? Was Mango not a bad parent? And where was Mrs. Tango? Mango never made any mention of her. There were so many questions running through his head, but they had to be put on hold. He returned home after Pink picked him up and Navy was waiting for them inside.
“Where were you, Purple?” He thundered. “You have chores you’re slacking on.”
“He wanted to get some exercise in,” Pink lied, knowing Navy would go ballistic on her and Purple if he knew the truth, “so I took him to the gym and left him there for a little while.”
“Is that so?” Navy asked, raising an eyebrow. Purple nodded yes. “Well then, at least you were doing something productive. Now get to work, this house is a mess. It’s all you and Pink are good for.”
“Excuse me?” Pink said, shocked and very offended.
“Are you talking back to me, Pink?” Navy demanded. “Don’t make me walk out that door right… f*****g… now…”
Pink said nothing, fearing Navy’s threat.
“I thought so.” He said tersely. “Now keep an eye on your son. If I see even one dust particle, I’m getting the belt.”
Pink nodded and oversaw Purple’s progress as he began his chores. He had a lot of them to do and not much time to do it. It took him several hours and by the time he was done, he didn’t have much time for homework. He finished it all, somehow, and went to bed at 1:30 that morning, barely getting any sleep before waking up the next morning for another day of school.
The next day was business as usual, but Purple was excited to see his friends, people who wouldn’t make him do hours of chores or homework. As Purple grew closer to them and their parents, he slowly began to realize what a father should be… Why was his dad the way he was? Was Navy the minority when it came to parenting? Why was Navy super strict while all these other parents were more chill? Maybe it’s because he was a guest and the parents wouldn’t do anything like that in front of someone. That was probably it. That made the most sense. No parent who loves their kids would be so casual toward them.
Over time, Purple saw school as a reprieve, time away from harsh training and exhausting chores. He began to grow to love his new friends, and they grew quite tight. They remained tight as weeks passed, and then months, and even a couple of years. That is, until one fateful moment…
It all started normally. A normal day of school for Purple, he went home, and did his training with Navy.
“C’mon, Purple!” Navy bellowed. “Is this how a 14-year-old fights? You’re punching like a five-year-old girl!”
Purple said nothing, but gritted his teeth and punched as hard as he possibly could, only for Navy to catch his punch and pin him down.
“Fight back, you pathetic twig!” Navy ordered. “Get up! Get back up! What’s our mantra?”
“Push through! Work harder! Fight harder!” He replied painfully.
“Show no mercy! Show no pain!” Navy shouted. “Again!”
Purple got up and tried fighting back, only for a swift kick to the gut to knock him over again. Pink looked outside just in time to witness this, and she ran outside to interfere.
“Navy! What are you doing?”
“I’m training him. What do you think I’m doing?” Pink sighed deeply.
“Navy, can we discuss this inside… please?” She begged. Navy rolled his eyes.
“If you must…” He followed her inside.
What followed was a heated and intense argument between the two spouses. Pink was fed up with the years of abuse and let it out, Navy was still as toxic and cruel as ever. Purple tried playing the mediator, accepting all the blame and promising to fight harder, but Pink was more concerned about her son’s well-being. It all culminated in a life-changing event.
“Navy, please, don’t push him so hard.” Pink protested.
“Why shouldn’t I, Pink?” Navy shot back. “The world is rough. I’m training him to fight back when the world pushes him.”
“But do you have to do it so harshly?” Pink pleaded.
“‘Harshly?’” Navy repeated, his temper rising. “Harshly?! How else will this useless stick that I call a son stand up for himself? You know what? I’m done with you both. You’re nothing more than pieces of s***, and I am embarrassed to call you my family.” He turned to leave, but Purple didn’t want him to. He pleaded, he begged for him to stay.
“Dad, wait! Please! I’ll train harder! I’ll make you proud! Just don’t go!” He cried out. Navy turned around, a hand on the doorknob, and said something Purple never forgot… for all the wrong reasons.
“What did I do to deserve this pathetic excuse for a family like you?”
With that, Navy left, got in his car, and drove off. Pink and Purple looked at each other, a heavy, unbearable weight falling on Purple’s heart.
“Do you think he’ll be back?” Purple asked. “Dad…”
“Maybe… At this point… I really don’t know…” Pink confessed, sheepishly.
“Mom, I’m sorry! It’s entirely my fault! I’m sorry!”
“Purple, please, don’t blame yourself. It’s not your fault.”
“I promise, Mom… I won’t lose you, too…”
Purple held out hope that his dad would return. He always did before when he blew up like this, but this was different. Days turned to weeks, with no sign of Navy. Purple shouldered the entire burden, accepting all the blame and making no excuses, as Navy trained him to be. Despite Pink insisting that it wasn’t his fault, Purple was having none of it. He blamed himself for losing his family, and it took a toll on himself and his psyche.
Purple continued going to school, trying to keep himself together, but he slowly drifted away from his friend group and returned to his loner role. He didn’t think they would understand, and he didn’t want to expose himself. The pain was too great to reveal. Despite Gold and his friends’ best efforts, Purple made it a point to stay away. They couldn’t help, he believed. It was his fault! If he had trained instead of hanging out with his friends, he might’ve reached Navy’s expectations. The constant barrage of self-loathing flooded his mind, and if that wasn’t bad enough, a second tragedy struck not long after his dad left.
It started off as a normal school day. Pink–who hadn’t been feeling 100% in recent weeks–dropped Purple off as per usual and he attended his classes. As school ended and classes let out, Tee’s dad, Roy L., a visually-striking blue stick with a similar color to Navy, rolled up in his police car. Gold couldn’t help but notice.
“Hey Tee, look! It’s your dad!”
“He doesn’t usually show up in his police car.” Tee noted. “I wonder what’s wrong.” Tee approached cautiously, as he didn’t want to interrupt something important. “Dad?”
“Hey, there’s Tee!” Roy exclaimed. “Listen, your mom will be here to pick you up soon. Is your principal in her office?”
“Probably.” Tee answered, but even before Roy could get to the principal’s office, she worked her way out.
“Officer L., what brings you here?” She asked.
“Principal Brown, I’m glad I found you. I’m looking for a student of yours: Purple Seal.” Roy explained.
“I shall find him promptly.” Principal Brown promised. She disappeared and soon returned with Purple behind her.
“Are you Purple Seal of 2022 South Stickly Street?”
“Yesss…” Purple answered uncertainly. “What’s happening? Am I under arrest?”
“No, not at all. I will need you to come with me.” Roy answered nervously. “It’s your mom…”
“Mom?” Purple repeated, horrified. “What happened? I know she hasn’t been feeling well recently… Why isn’t she picking me up?”
“I will take you to her.”
“What happened to Mom?” Purple asked, tears in his eyes. “Please… tell me!”
“Calm down, buddy.” Roy said gently and solemnly, leading Purple into the car. “I… don’t want to be the bearer of bad news. I’ll take you to her.”
Purple entered Roy’s police car and he drove Purple to the hospital.
“The hospital?” Purple gasped, quickly racing out of the car into the hospital, up to the receptionist’s desk, so desperate that his mind just blanked and he had to get answers.
“I need to know… Is there a Pink Seal here as a patient? I’m her son, I have to know!” Before the receptionist could react, a voice intervened.
“You must be Purple Seal.”
Purple turned and saw a pastel reddish-orange stick dressed in nurse’s attire talking to him.
“Yes! Yes! Where’s Mom?”
“Calm down, buddy.” He said soothingly. “I will take you to her.” Purple breathed deeply.
“OK… Thank you… Um…” He hesitated.
“Nurse Coral. Cory for short.” Cory introduced, leading Purple down a hall. “I hate to break this to you but… Your mom has cancer.”
“Cancer?” Purple repeated.
“I’m afraid so.” Cory confessed. “It’s been growing for a while, spreading… I’m afraid she’s… too far gone.”
“Wh- What do you mean?”
“There’s nothing we can do. It’s too severe. All we can do is make her comfortable.”
“What?!” Purple asked desperately, tears filling his eyes. “No, there must be something! ANYTHING! PLEASE! YOU’VE GOT TO SAVE MOM!”
“I’m sorry, Purple.” Cory said sadly and sympathetically, opening the door to Pink’s room. A lighter purple stick was standing over her. “Dr. Thyst, Pink’s son is here. I told him the news…”
“Thanks, Cory, and please, call me Amy.” Amy Thyst insisted.
“Sorry, Amy.” Cory replied. “This is Purple Seal.”
“What’s happening to Mom?” Purple pleaded. “I can’t lose her! Please! There must be something you can do!”
“Purple… I’m sorry… It has spread too far. I fear she only has… an hour at most, but it could be any moment.” Amy said tragically. “I’ll leave you two alone.” She left, and Cory followed, leaving just a teary-eyed Purple and her dying mother alone.
“Mom, I… I’m sorry… I will find Dad… I will make you and Dad proud…”
“Purple…” Pink said weakly, gripping her son’s hand. “I love you, Purple…”
“Mom, I love you too.”
Pink closed her eyes and lost her grip on her son’s hand. Her heart rate monitor flatlined with a cold, heartless, BEEEEEEEEEEEEEP…
In such a short matter of time, Purple found himself essentially orphaned. His mom had passed away and his dad was who knows where. At the young age of 14, Purple had to bury his mother… practically alone. He had no support, he had no happiness, all he had was a shattered heart. Unable to live in his home any longer, he left school, his friends, everything behind. Everything… except his desire to find his father. He was Purple’s only family left. He had to find him.
Purple spent some time in homeless shelters and orphanages, remaining the loner he had cultivated in recent weeks, his mind so occupied by Navy that he completely forgot about his old friends. After some fruitless time there, he left, determined to find Navy and make him proud, something he never could do when he lived with him. He searched high and low… until one day… when he stumbled upon a Nether portal.
“What the heck…?” Purple said to himself. He stepped through it, and found a whole network of portals in the Nether.
“Wh- Where am I?” Purple gasped. “What is this place? It looks like a fiery abyss, like the depictions of Hell I’ve heard before. Hmm… This might be my opportunity. If I can conquer this, then that would prove my worth to Dad.”
From there, Purple explored the network of portals and learned the ins and outs of Minecraft firsthand. No tutorials, just instincts. He caught on quickly, his determination pushing him forward, and it wasn’t long before he found and collected diamonds. With that goal accomplished, he tried another portal, and that led him to a Mac. and the village within. The villagers met him and became curious, not seeing any stick like him before.
“Villagers, I present you with things you could never have imagined: Quartz!” Purple proclaimed. He showered them with things like quartz and gold from his explorations, and they immediately expressed their love for him.
‘Perfect. I can rule the village. I can rule this… whatever this is.’ Purple thought. ‘Dad, I’m proving my worth to you.”
“Now, my loyal subjects, I demand a castle, the most majestic castle in all the land. If you meet my standards, I will reward you handsomely.” He pulled out more quartz. The villagers immediately agreed and built him the castle, even smelting him a crown with the gold he had given them, and he continued his powerful reign over the village. Until one day… When two sticks set foot in his kingdom… And the rest–as they say–is history.
But what became of Gold?
Well, despite Gold’s best efforts, Purple drew away from him and his friends. Gold felt especially bad, as he tried to be a friend when Purple needed it most, but he couldn’t.
“Don’t blame yourself, Goldy.” Mango said when Gold brought it back up. “Sometimes friends just go, and I’m sure it wasn’t anything you did.”
“I still feel bad for him. I just wish I could do more for him.”
“Our door is always open, in case he ever needs us.” Mango assured his son.
Eventually, however, Purple just disappeared without a trace. He was taken away by Roy and no one ever knew what became of him. Roy didn’t know what happened after he dropped Purple off at the hospital, and Gold didn’t know what became of his friend. He took it pretty hard. He didn’t want to lose Purple, but his friends were there to comfort and support him, ensuring him that it wasn’t his fault and you can’t force help upon someone. Gold was appreciative, he soon returned to his energetic, upbeat self, and nothing too eventful happened to him.
At least… until one day some time after Pink’s death…
“Hey, Dad, the festival’s in town! Can we go?” Gold asked eagerly.
“Sure, kiddo.” Mango replied. “We can grab corn dogs and everything. It’ll be a lot of fun.”
Sadly, it wasn’t, and we all know why.
A tragic accident cost Gold his life, and Mango became so absorbed by heartbreak, pain and vengeance, that he too forgot about Purple, even after the latter arrived on his doorstep. Ultimately, however, two broken hearts were led to each other, the missing pieces they needed.
A father lost his son.
A son lost his father.
After an incredible adventure, they found each other.
And with Gold miraculously coming home some time later…
The Tango family is whole once again.
THE END