Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The lights flickered once.

The lights flickered again.

Then, they flooded the room. One by one, the lights became blinding.Each contestant awoke, dreary and exhausted from their transport.It was dead silent, you could hear the sound of the wind blowing from outside and the hum of machines.Where any of them meant to be here at all? No one recalled signing up for this, and yet here they were.

Then, the first words were said.

”KRIS WHERE THE HELL ARE WE-“

The words echoed through the room, ricocheting off the walls and filling the silence.Susie appeared angry, but also extremely confused. Kris just stared quietly, shrugging softly.Close by was Mr Tenna, who was also confused on their situation.Where was Mike? the Audience? The liveliness.Perhaps it had died with his dreams, or was never existent in the first place.He wanted to say something, but held his wires.Kris and Susie quickly leapt from their beds, going to explore the area surrounding them.

With the cookies, they were now the size of everyone else.Shadow Milk sat up, reeling his head around.”Well folks, I don’t think we’re in Kansas anymore!” He jumped from his bed, before tumbling down from the one of the top bunks.Eternal Sugar remained asleep, enjoying her peace.No need to get riled up over trivial matters.Candy Apple followed Shadow Milk, giggling merrily.

Infected couldn’t sleep, he only had pretended to.Although the events before this were extremely groggy, he somewhat was aware of his surroundings and situation.He was kidnapped? Selected? Still daydreaming? Lampert remained in bed as well, not feeling the need to walk around.The room was crawling with bacteria and viruses.Now wasn’t the time to risk it all.He could see his friend Kasper from across the room, staring blankly at the lights.The two hadn’t talked in awhile, so now they might be able to.

Sebastian didn’t even fit in his bed.He was way too large for the guards to deal with, so they’d left him on the floor.

The Kpop Group Huntrix had their own special beds, all on the top bunks.The trio was confused but somewhat interested.

Close by Sebastian and a group of dungeon delvers was a 10 year old boy:Raz.He shouldn’t of been there, he couldn’t be.No one was sure how he was even in. Yet again, if they let a baby be in the games, then so could a kid…right…?

Speaking of dungeon delvers, Laios, Marcille, and Falin all had bottom bunks together.They chatted amongst themselves, remarking and reminiscing on old times and being perplexed on their situation.Laios was especially interested, and was intrigued by some of the technology in the area.Marcille often commented on the uniforms, not being a big fan of the color.Falin listened in on the conversations, occasionally adding her own opinions.

The duo of Okarun and Momo Ayase talked loudly and boisterously, discussing stuff about their shared interests about occult.Occasionally, they’d stare down a guard , commenting on their nonhuman appearance.Otheriwse, they kept to themselves.

lnstead of interacting with others, Space Boy just laid in bed without any reason to move.Probably was asleep still.

With the Tulpar members, they were glad to be out of the ship for a moment.Daisuke felt bad that Swansea couldn’t join them, but still happy to have a break.He’d taken off his uniform, tying it around his waist.Anya nervously talked with Curly.She was grateful to not be in Jimmy’s (Jexual Assault) presence.At the same time, it was nice to see Curly in his normal, human condition.It was nice, the cabin fever was over for now.With the new folk around, there could be more interaction.

Alas, the mission to find the boss would be put off again.Ena and Froggy were now on another side quest.Since the guards thought Froggy looked weird without his signature hoodie, they let him keep it.The two had friendly conversation as well.They hadn’t in ages, maybe not at all.The two had to keep it work related.

Lastly, Daisuke Dishware meditated on his bunk.He thought back to the dishware in the cabinets and cupboards.May a plate not be chipped and a fork bent.Meanwhile, Hector nervously rocked back in forth below him.Hector hadn’t been out of his vent in a long time.Now everyone could see him, even though it’s not what he wanted.His new clothes looked nice at least.

A voice crackled on the speakers above, prompting everyone to listen.

”Attentionst all contestants, pleaseth report to the middleth of the roome.Weth shall explainst everythinge”The voice had a strange accent, and perhaps a speech impediment.Despite this, everyone listened, having nothing else to do.

A group of guards, along with a tall one in a black mask stood by the exit area.The man cleared his throat, as all the contestants listened in.They watched in suspense.” Welcometh to the multi-fandome squide games.Thou shall competeth fore a grande prizeth which shall beth revealede eventuallye.Maketh sureth to rest beforeth each activity, ande let the games beginst.”The one in the Black Mask bluntly stated the speech issue still being present.They were the same person on the speakers before.

A collective murmur cycled through the crowd, everyone having their own concerns and ideas.No one in particular had the same idea.A grand prize?Games?Why, this just sounded like an ordinary game show.The strange room though, it made the feelings existential.Maybe it wasn’t.Maybe they needed more to go off of.

” Now, thine first gameth shall beth rede light greenst light.I’me sureth it shall not beth extremelye difficult.I wish thou all the best luck, ande maye the best man surviveth.”

Chapter Text

As the contestants stepped out into the field for their first game, the bright lights illuminated the room.”Say, why did that guy sound familiar-“Susie was cut off by Kris”It’s Rouxls.”

”What-“

”It’s Rouxls Kaard.”

”Makes sense.”

”But how come he’s here…?”Susie questioned. ”New job? Didn’t know he wanted to be a show host too.I’m glad he’s found a new passion though!”Tenna commented, despite not being in the conversation.The lightners responded with a thumbs up, still not sure.The other contestants were still just as confused yet excited as before, others more apathetic.

The rules had been stated before the game.When the doll turned and said Red Light, you weren’t allowed to move.When the light was green, you had the ability to go forth.A simple premise.

” Thoust May begin.” Crackled loudly on the speakers. With that, everyone began making their way to the other side. Lampert led as first, considering his speed from not moving often. The built up energy helped. The doll by the tree spoke its words, letting the contestants move forward.

Kris and Susie stuck together, racing each other playfully, with Tenna following from the sideline.Shadow Milk stuck close behind, Candy Apple Cookie trailing along.Eternal Sugar was barely making any distance.Infected attempted to chase after Lampert, but he wasn’t fast enough either.

The Huntrix Trio moved together, keeping an eye and ear out for when the doll would change.Sebastian Solace was also far from everyone else, considering he hadn’t slept well and didn’t have much energy.He carried Raz on his back, letting him keep watch as well.The boy occasionally questioned Sebastian, but he had minimal answers.Raz would also touch and feel Sebastian’s frilly gill things, along with his anglers.It pissed off Sebastian, but there wasn’t much he could do.Laios, Falin, and Marcille all speed-walked together, hand in hand.They were making good distance.

With Okarun and Momo, they teamed up together, using Okaran’s powers to help them gain momentum.Momo held onto Okarun as the duo stepped fast, attempting to catch up to Lampert.Space Boy walked at a steady pace, not feeling the need to rush into things.Instead of sticking together as a group, Daisuke and Curly ran side by side, whilst Anya walked close by Space Boy, being careful to not trip.

Lastly, Ena used Froggy as a piggyback ride, the two working together similar to Okarun and Momo.Daisuke Dishware walked peacefully, listening to the calm breeze and admiring the atmosphere.Meanwhile, Hector frantically rushed, trying to catch up to Lampert.His pace wasn’t extremely steady, and he struggled to keep up.

Then, the first session ended.The doll turned its head around, declaring a red light.Just as this happened, Shadow Milk “accidentally” shoved Kris, causing them to fall over.Hector lost momentum, his quick legs betraying him as he crashed to the ground.

In two shots that shook the Earth, it was over.

Susie stared back at the mess, at Shadow Milk Cookie.Was it truly an accident? Shadow Milk stared blankly at Kris’s lifeless body, no one emotion displayed in his expression. Not even a game in, and something has gone wrong. Tenna watched, fear and terror struck him like a freight train.Kris was gone.He’d lost one of his only viewers.

Hector laid out on the field, but no one seemed to do anything.The only person from the same game as him had never even seen him in person.Daisuke Dishware showed some amount of respect, but stood still.

Then, the light went green again.Almost immediately, everyone ran.Seeing as two had already died, they didn’t wanna be next.Meanwhile, Susie stayed behind, sticking with Kris.She knelt down, her face struck with a mixture of anger and sadness”GET UP MAN THIS ISN’T FUNNY!WE CAN MAKE IT-“Susie then noticed the blood beginning to pool, and the guards coming close to take them away.It wasn’t a joke.It was real.And this was only the beginning. Tenna wanted to help, but knew there wasn’t much to be done for the kiddo.He only watched from the sidelines, knowing they could only run.

And with that, Susie and Tenna ran like the wind.

Meanwhile, everyone was also running for their lives, bolting towards the end.Even Eternal Sugar, the Beast of Sloth, had started to make distance.Lampert had already reached the end.He hadn’t looked back, only heard the shots.He watched Kasper from a distance, seeing his now disheveled demeanor and his shaky hands.With every step the floor looked slightly infected, but not to a bad extent.Next to join Lampert was Momo and Okarun, after all the pair worked together to make it farther.

In a strange attempt to perhaps get more to pass, Sebastian grabbed Raz off his back, holding him up in the air like a prize.”What are you doing…?”

”CHILD TORPEDO!”

Before Razputin could even make a counterargument, Sebastian used his strength to throw him across the room, having him land face first in the dirt.It wasn’t exactly ideal, but it worked.Sebastian could now go at everyone else’s pace.Plus, Razputin’s goggles shielded his eyes, protecting himself from harm.

Ena and Froggy, being the duo they were, dashed through groups of people, Ena using her floating limbs to grab and shove people, while Froggy continued to run towards the finish.Many fell, but managed to get back up.Infected especially was pissed by this.

”Y0U AR3N’T 1NV1T3D TO MA1 B1RTHD4Y P4RT3Y!!!>:0”He shouted, sounding like an angry parakeet.

Then, the light went red again.With the path of destruction that Ena and Froggy had left, it was no wonder that another two people got out that time.Candy Apple, who was following behind Shadow Milk, was grabbed by one of her apples and tossed aside.Along with Candy Apple Cookie, Curly had also been caught in the crossfire.Daisuke and Anya watched in horror.Their captain was gone.

Shadow Milk stared at Candy Apple, suddenly feeling guilt and denial.It was all going according to the script, and now it’s been fucked up.The light went green;Nothing more could be said or done.

The game behind nearing its end.The timer was running out.By now, only Marcille, Laios, Falin, and Eternal Sugar were left.It was the final green light.Eternal Sugar desperately flew, barely making it to the end.The trio of dungeoneers bolted towards the end, as if they were being chased by something.The time eventually came to close, but a fifth person’s life would be taken.The time had ran out exactly before Marcille had crossed the line.She glared at the guards, fear and anger filling her eyes.”OH COME ON I WAS ONE STEP AWAY DON’T DO THIS TO ME-“ A ringing headshot blared throughout the room. Laios and Falin’s were terrified now as well, watching Marcille eerily collapse to her final resting place.They were now a party member short.

With that, the game was declared finished.Looking back, the blood of the player’s allies stained the dusty sand.The guards worked on dragging them away.Many were distraught, very few apathetic. The next few days were going to be hell.Only one person would make it out alive, but more questions still remained. From now on, this wasn’t just a bunch of children’s games and physical challenges.

From now on, this was life or death.

(Wow great ending sleep deprived me.)

Chapter Text

As the contestants reentered the lobby, the room felt tense.No one was prepared for what had happened, and it was only going down hill from here.The lights were dimmed, and a group of guards, along with the front man, stood by the entry way.Many contestants just returned to their beds, while others gathered to discuss the game’s outcome.

Susie laid in her bed, staring at the top bunk blankly.Kris, one of the few people she was friends with, was gone.What would Ralsei think, what would Noelle think? They were gone, and not much else could be done.Tenna also felt awful about it, sitting on the edge of his bunk.He’d turned his screen off to reflect on the situation.He’d known Kris since they were a kid.What was he meant to do now…?

“Hey, Tenna?”Susie spoke up for the first time in a while.Her voice was raspier than usual.”Yeah kid?”He responded.His tone sounded more melancholic.”It’s just us now…I mean…Rouxls is here too…but honestly…I just want Kris back already.”Susie mentioned.Tenna nodded in agreement.”I watched them throughout most their childhood.It was a nice experience, I can’t believe it’s over already…”

”That’s because you are Kris’s Tv right?”Susie asked.”Well, yeah. I miss the days of having the whole family watch Christmas specials and Monster Movie Marathons.I often reflect on some of the old shows Kris used to watch, and how they effected his interests at the time.I wish that Kris would’ve put on early morning cartoons one more time, eating leftover pies and occasionally getting in trouble with Toriel.Now, I’m stuck here…”Susie frowned more, hearing Tenna explain the old times and nostalgic memories.She hadn’t had many experiences like that, and she wouldn’t be able to make more with one of her few best friends.”Maybe if we get out together, we could try to make new memories…”Susie requited, laying her head back further into her pillow, closing her eyes gently.Tenna looked up, even if for a bleak moment.

”I’d like that.”

Meanwhile, Infected and Lampert sat on the same bunk together.It was strange, considering the two weren’t often close anymore.Infected was well…Infected, and Lampert was having trouble coping with what his friend had become due to his sickness. Despite this, they still wanted to stay close to each other now, considering the circumstances.

”So Kasper, what do think the next game is?”Lampert asked.Infected shrugged.”T4g? Th3 F1tn3sS Gr4m PaC3r T3sT (o.o)?IDK XDDD”He spoke in his usual, very glitchy skater persona.The virus he had made him speak strangely, his speech was often littered with little emoticons and numbers.”I don’t have many ideas…I just wanna get out somehow…”Lampert sighed languidly, gazing off at the ceiling.”G3t 0uT?1 me4n, I kn0w p3opL3 d13d, But w0u1dN’t it b3 4t Le4sT s0m3wh4t WorTh 1T????”Infected responded.

”Kasper…”

”WhY d0 y0u K3eP c4LL1ng m3 th4t?.o.’ 4re y0u DsYL3xIc OR s0m3th1n???”

”You wouldn’t get it…you don’t remember…”

With Shadow Milk and Eternal Sugar, the two just faced each other.Eternal Sugar gazed disapprovingly, but she felt somewhat poignant as well.Shadow Milk looked completely out of it, the facade of cheeriness melting into guilt and anger.He’d never looked worse.

”Dear, staring at the floor won’t help your situation…”Eternal Sugar remarked, finger combing her large locks of hair.Her eyes were softly closed, a small frown on her face.”Don’t sweet talk me, I’m thinking…just leave me to my own devices…”Shadow Milk quickly responded.”Very well…just ask me if you need anything.”

Sebastian laid on one of the bunks, having most of his body coiled up like a snake.He couldn’t fit the bed no matter what he tried to, and the guards wouldn’t provide any accommodations.Raz sat on the bunk across from him, dusting the sand and dirt off his worn goggles.

”Why did you throw me back there?”Razputin asked, looking at Sebastian curiously.Sebastian perked up, raising his head up.”I honestly don’t know. I mean you’re a kid, so I just wanted you to get out of there alive…”Raz rose a brow.”You didn’t need to throw me.You could’ve just passed me around to Lampert.”

”Well kid, you were heavy, so I needed to get the weight off somehow.Besides, I didn’t want you getting clobbered by another contestant.”Sebastian explained.Raz nodded, taking a moment to lay back.”I wish I could’ve used my psychic powers back then.For some reason, they aren’t functioning as normal.”Now, Sebastian was looking at Raz questionably.”Psychic powers? How exactly did you get those?”Sebastian asked, holding his head in his hands.”I was born with em.How about you?Were you always a fish man?” Raz inquired in return.Sebastian went silent, staring at the floor.

”…”

“…”

“…Nice talk.”

The group of fellow demon hunters talked amongst themselves, trying to stay calm and collected, despite the events of the day.”So, what’s next?” Zoey asked, trying to keep the conversation going.”Well first of all, we should figure a way out.Our fans are gonna get worried with our disappearance.”Mira suggested.”True…but they might just think we’re on a hiatus, a very uhh…weird hiatus…?”Rumi added on.Her hair was undone, messily long and splayed on her shoulders.

”You sure Bobby can handle being by himself this long?”

”…Sure”

Falin and Laios laid across from eachother on their beds, sharing a poignant moment.Neither of them exchanged even a glance.The loss of Marcille left them both despondent.Both had strong bonds with her, maybe even slight crushes.Now, one of their most important party members was no longer here.

A couple minutes later, Laios dozed off, beginning to snore loudly.Falin gave a brief side eye, but chose not to wake him up.He was probably tired, so she gave him a chance to rest.

”Hey Okarun?” Momo asked, sitting on the side of her bed.Her hands were placed on her thighs, grasping on her pants.”Yes Miss Ayase?”Okarun replied.He adjusted his glasses, lying on his bed with his back against it.”You think if we sabotage people, we’d be doing the right thing?”Okarun stared at Momo confused, but slowly relaxed.”Maybe…in game like this I don’t know if morality exists…you saw the frog man and the polygon girl…they didn’t seem to care about it…”Okarun responded, seeming unsure about his answer.””I suppose your right…still…something about it just doesn’t sit right with me…”Momo answered, a conflicted sigh following.

Space Boy sat alongside the group from the Tulpar, discussing their missions and experiences.He knew he definitely was considered an outcast amongst their group, but stayed anyways.The two looked somewhat concerned, after all they’d lost their captain that same day, but they tried to remain positive.Its what Curly would’ve wanted.

Daisuke’s eyes wandered away from the conversation constantly, finding it hard to stay focused.He still was getting used to the new faces and environment.That cabin fever was beginning to fade.Anya meanwhile, intently focused on the conversations.She found Space Boy interesting, finding solace in his bright demeanor.Something about him reminded her of Curly, she just couldn’t put a finger on it.

Speaking of polygons and frogs, Ena and Froggy walked around the room aimlessly, looking around.”Hey, good work today…”Froggy complimented Ena.She looked at him, some concern and joy in her eyes.”I guess.I just was trying to level the playing field.”She replied, trying to downplay her actions.She knew what she had done.Ena felt sour about the situation, but knew victory might be the only way out.

”I know it’s not convenient, but if we win, maybe the funds could help us get the boss.”Froggy suggested.Ena nodded, looking off in the distance.”Mkay…”

Daisuke Dishware meditated peacefully on his bed again.The only other person from his game was gone, but he didn’t know how to feel.He’d never spoken to Hector much, only heard rumors.Others said he was strange, and he never really left the vents.Maybe it was a good thing, maybe not.

Daisuke thought back to the other dishware and household items.Kopi was probably managing the cafe rather well.She had a knack for drink making and worked well.Cabrizzio might of also been managing well.Beverly would be crafting her signature drinks as well, and Mitchell would be tending to his culinary business too.In closing, everyone back at the house were fine right?

Suddenly, the PA crackled to life, a recording playing. “ Sinceth it’s all of thou guys first daye here, we’veth cometh to the decisionst to let thou haveth sleep now, but first, weth shall beth providing someth refreshments ande such…enjoye.”The announcement blared through out the room.Laios almost launched up from his bed like a missile.

Food and Drinks were provided at a small table, although not the greatest around.The only thing being provided was glass bottles of Sprite and slices of bread.(I know the foods are probably wrong I’m doing what I want I guess.)Each character lined up, collecting their own portion of food.Due to the small amount of people, there was some left over.Some fought over the remaining food, but it didn’t get too serious.

Eventually the lights cut out.The contestants tried to sleep, but some took time to build small alliances.The endless possibilities of the next game…with how the first game went, it was surely wasn’t gonna be a cake walk.This was the only night they’d be able to all sleep soundly.

Chapter Text

The VIP room was filled with the sounds of talkative villains and bustling business.Thr VIPs all sat at one table, enjoying good food and eachother’s company.”The games today were quite entertaining were they not?”Gwi-Ma started.He had nothing to eat nor drink, after all he was made of fire.”Indeed.The toil of these mortals amuses me so.”Folly replied, sounding somewhat joyful for the first time in her existence.She sipped on red wine quietly.

”I’m thoroughly surprised on how Kris lost so early.Any commentary to provide Roaring Knight?”Dark Enchantress Cookie commented, giving the knight a smug look.They remained silent, not wanting to engage.They were dissatisfied with the outcomes of the games so far.Instead, they casually sipped on their drink and zoned out.”Are you going to answer me or not?”Dark Enchantress asked again.Still, no response.”Let em be.”Jimmy answered.He held his head low, feeling somewhat ashamed to be in the villain’s circle, but understanding at the same time.

”Hey, remember those bets we made at the beginning?I’m curious if they’ll come to fruition.”Folly suggested, her dark claws tapping against the table.”I feel Falin would be fitting, after all she worked with me before.She has a smartness and skill to her.I wouldn’t be surprised if she reached the final round.”The Mad Mage(I don’t remember their actual name) responded, their expression unwavering.They held a fancy chalice, but didn’t drink anything from it.”I don’t reckon any of the beasts would make it too far.Eternal Sugar is too tiresome, and Shadow Milk just isn’t made for this.That Okarun though…seems formidable.”Dark Enchantress answered, grinning to herself while taking another shot. “I was gonna say that.”Turbo Granny replied annoyingly.She was still stuck inside the cat trinket, reaching up to the table.She couldn’t reach the food she’d ordered.”Out of all of the demon hunters…I’d say Rumi.She bears demon patterns, so perhaps she may have some powers…”Gwi-Ma stated, his fires growing slightly.Others in the circle nodded, agreeing with him.”I know no one will trust me on my bet, but the bright one.Lampert may have his fears and faults, but he has potential.”Folly responded.There was some side eyes, but only one person questioned her. “That stupid lamp? Oh please…if he sits around in a IKEA-“Jimmy corrected himself.”Rokea, how the hell would he be able to win?”Folly stared at Jimmy, looking somewhat perturbed.He was being rather obnoxious, but Folly kept her calm.

”I was betting on Kris…”The Roaring Knight finally spoke, although they were quiet.Everyone stared, not saying a word.It was the answer everyone already expected.”Well then, that was rather anti-climactic.Anything else?”Gristol replied.He hadn’t spoken the whole time, mainly out of boredom.He hadn’t bet on anyone.”Well I suppose not.Unless anyone else has counter arguments?”

The room fell quiet.There really wasn’t much else to say.Folly continued to down her wine glass, enjoying it in its entirety.Gristol watched quietly, playing around with his extremely large crown.You could fit a person inside.Dark Enchantress and the Mad Mage stared at eachother intensely, before looking back at the center table.Jimmy seemed perturbed.The Roaring Knight helped up Turbo Granny, setting her on the table gently so she could reach her food.Gwi-Ma looked around wistfully. “Well I guess that’s that.” Gristol replied to himself. “One final toast before the end of the night?”

Everyone held up their glasses and chalices, clinking them together.Some wished for their bets to come to pass, others merely wished for a valiant victory for the many contestants.

And with that, the night ended.

Chapter Text

At the dawn of the next day, the contestants stood outside the Dalgona room.Last night was surprisingly peaceful, but now it time to return to the fray.Susie leaned against the wall, her head hung low.She was still tired from last night.Tenna stood quietly, swaying his arms back and forth.He was buzzing with activity, trying to distract himself.The stimming and swaying was helping to an extent.After all, what better way to stave off existential dread and anxiety then moving around?

”Hey Tenna, with you being a host of a show with lots of physical challenges…you think you’d know how some of these games work?”Susie asked, looking up at Tenna.He gazed down at Susie for a moment, thinking to himself.”I think so…?I can always help you, just as long as you don’t ask me to cheat for you.”Tenna replied.He put his hands back in his pockets, looking back at the door skeptically.Susie nodded along, going back to silence.

Shadow Milk did the same, although a lot more expressive.Spinning around endlessly, he enjoyed the peace.Even if he still felt sad about Candy Apple’s unfortunate demise, he continued to enjoy himself for her sake.Eternal Sugar wasn’t fazed by this, seeing as he seemed to bounce back rather quickly.Something seemed off though, but Eternal Sugar couldn’t pick up on it just yet.

Infected and Lampert stood side by side, staring at the doorway.”S0, H0w dO Y0U Th1Nk th1s w1LL pL4y 0uT?”Infected asked, a small smile on his face.Lampert gave him a side eye, not wanting to answer.Infected returned the look, grinning wider and wider.”Can you please not stand so close…?I like having space Kasper…”Lampert inquired, stepping away from Infected, much to his dismay.

”0oH c0m3 ON M4n!1 jUsT w4NnA t4Lk! :((“Infected clamored, moving in a tad bit closer.”If you want to talk, you don’t need to be so close to me.You know how to talk, sure, but can you even listen?”Lampert responded.He continued to avoid Infected, trying to social distance as much as possible.Infected didn’t back down though.”I 4m tRy1Ng t0 L1sT3n, but y0u won’t l3T m3 1N…(!-!)”

Sebastian sat himself down, sitting far away from the door.Raz sat nearby, fidgeting with his helmet and readjusting it to a more comfortable position.”Y’know, you never answered my question from last night.”Razputin started.He looked up at Sebastian, who returned the look.”Well…I’m not really comfortable with talking about it right now…besides, we have to focus on the games at hand.”Sebastian, said, trying to change the topic.He looked off to the side, noticing someone listening in.

Space Boy, the infamous captain of space pirates, laid against the wall nearby, listening quietly as he had nothing else to do.He’d kept his mouth shut for a while, but tried to keep up with what was going on.Strategically, he was attempting to make alliances with each group, so he wouldn’t be a target.The Tulpar members trusted him, so gaining the trust of the other strange duo could be useful.

”What are you looking at Blueberry Man…?”Sebastian commented, scrunching up his face.Space Boy blinked for a moment.It was gonna take him a second to process his words.Raz looked just as confused.”Sebastian, right?”Space Boy questioned.Sebastian’s apprehension simmered.”Why do you know my name…Nevermind.I’m just trying to talk to the kiddo right now.Go uhh…ramble with the other space guy and gal.”

With that, Space Boy returned to people watching.

Rumi, Zoey, and Mira all hung out by the doors.Mira leaned against one of the doors, looking around suspiciously at the others in the room.Huntrix had yet to make any alliances, nor talk to anyone outside of their group.It wasn’t conventional, at least in Mira’s standards.”So, Rumi…you sure this is gonna go well? We haven’t made much progress, and the lack of social interaction is starting to get to me.”Zoey commented, side eyeing Rumi with the vibes that she wasn’t doing great.Zoey held her legs close to her chest.

”For now, we need to strategize.If the games are physical challenges, then we gotta use our combined strength and skill to win.Its for the fans after all.”Rumi responded.She wasn’t eye to eye with Zoey, her thoughts wandering.”We get that Rumi, but you do realize that it’s not just some games, it’s life or death.We should at least enjoy the time we have, it could be our last.Even if we don’t wanna interact with others, we should at least make attempts to build trust.”Mira suggested.Rumi looked back at her, nodding to herself quietly.It wasn’t a bad idea.Even if they were idols, they may not be spared in the chaos.For now, the time they had should be enjoyed.

Laios, Falin, Momo, and Okarun all sat together in a circle.The quad squad was taking turns showing off their abilities.Everyone was thoroughly impressed with eachother’s magic and strengths, even sharing a few laughs and smiles.Laios and Falin were trying to stave off the looming thought that Marcille was gone.She would’ve wanted them to keep enjoying themselves and stick together, so they did exactly that.The company of the two occult loving teens was pleasant, and they all seemed to have one thing in common;A fascination with the unknown.Momo and Okarun gladly enjoyed hanging around them as well.

”Hey, Ena.”Froggy asked.He laid against the floor, his legs kicked up on a nearby wall. Ena looked up for a moment.She was playing with her fingers before, tapping them rhythmically.”What are you inquiring?”She asked in her business man voice.It didn’t make sense to be business casual right now, but it was just her way of thinking.”Just checking in , that’s all.”Froggy responded.He wanted to say more, but he refrained.

Lastly, Daisuke Dishware continued sat nearby the Tulpar duo.He constantly thought back to the dish-ware in the kitchen.Would they be ok without him?Surely, they can manage.Maybe he was just overworking himself too much.Anya and the other Daisuke talked about the games once more.Daisuke eyes kept wandering elsewhere, specifically finding Tenna interesting.A Tv man, what an oddity.Anya noticed his spaced out expression, but didn’t mind it all too much.Focusing was a bit difficult for him, and she understood that.

”Attentionst, all faithfule contestants, thou shall maketh to the secondth game, Dalgona.Instructions shall be explained shorthandth.”The PA system crackled to life, hurting everyone’s ears.The door opened, shoving Mira out of the way.With that, all the contestants walked in.

The rules were simple.They simply needed to cut the shape out of from the cookie.Easy as pie, or cookies in this case.

The guard handed out the cookies to each contestant, and the timer began.

Susie worked hard with her cookie, being a bit reckless with the tracing, but making stunning progress.The needle was easy for to work with, and since she had a circle, it was easy to complete.Tenna on the other hand, was struggling a bit.His large hands made the needle hard to use.Luckily, he’d gotten a triangle, but it was still tough nonetheless.The duo both managed to complete their cookies.

Shadow Milk traced his cookie with ease, even though it was an umbrella.He found the cookie cutting strange, considering he was a cookie, but went along with it anyways.His cookie came out rather banged up, but it was in one piece still.Eternal Sugar Cookie cut out the cookie with precision and attention to detail.She enjoyed taking her time with the task.

Infected tried snapping the edges of his cookie, trying to ease his work load, but his sweaty fingers couldn’t get a good grip.Lampert traced out his cookie just as fast as he’d completed the first game.He was good at working efficiently.Eventually, Infected gave up on trying to break off the excess stuff.Besides, the shape was beginning to crack.Using the needle, he tried his best to carve it.He had even more trouble cutting it.

”H3y L4mP3rt!CoULd y0U h3Lp m3?? (-_-‘)”Infected asked, smiling at him.Lampert gave a side eye.He thought about it for a moment.They used to be friends, maybe still were, so it wouldn’t hurt to help.”Sure…?”He reluctantly agreed.With that, the two worked together on Infected’s cookie, being careful to not let guards catch on.

Sebastian used his claws to cut Raz’s cookie for him, then cutting his own.Raz was perturbed by this, but was thankful either way.

The time was around half way over already, and so far, most had completed their cookies, while a handful still were working.Laios hadn’t even started, and instead was staring at the cookie in front of him.He was restricting the urge to eat it.It looked so delicious and smelled sickeningly sweet.The bread from last night was not enough.

Daisuke was having a hard time with tracing his star.He couldn’t apply enough pressure to make the cookie crack correctly.The needle kept cracking the excess dough.Luckily someone noticed Daisuke’s struggle.Tenna had been people watching since he finished a couple seconds before.Since they were sitting close to each other, he offered to help.Daisuke humbly accepted.Tenna would give him tips and tricks, and Daisuke would follow along.He finished his cookie with an extra minute left.

Mira was struggling with her cookie.She’d been jabbing it with the needle for ages, yet it wouldn’t carve at all.The other Huntrix girls all finished early and offered to help, but Mira declined.She could do this on her own, right.With around 30 seconds left, she got a small piece off, but it was all for naught.Everyone else was finished besides Laios, who was still debating on eating his cookie.Out of frustration, Mira punched the cookie out of frustration.It was crushed into many itty bitty pieces.By the time she’d realized what she’d done, it was too late.

With the final 15 seconds and the end of the 2nd game on the horizon, Laios continued to stare at his cookie.It was calling to him, beckoning him to eat it.Falin tried advising against it, but he dismissed it.He’d also lost his needle, so what else was he meant to do? Before the final 5 seconds, Laios shoved the entire cookie in his mouth, eating it whole.Falin stared, almost dumbfounded.A guard raised their gun at him.”What?I was hungry-“

With a click of a trigger and the silent plead of a saddened Falin, Laios’s head was blown off.

The timer went off.Each contestant turned in their cookies to the guards.This time, they were lucky to not lose many people, but what to come was surely a bad time…

(sleep deprived me at 1am writing what the helly)

Chapter Text

The contestants reentered the room.It wasn’t as somber as the first time, but the mood still felt poignant.Nothing really happened, but two people were still dead, and there would only be more from here.

Huntrix was missing a member.Who was supposed to choreograph their moves, let alone perform alongside Rumi and Zoey? At this point, the demon hunters would have to disband either way, no one could deal with such a loss.It wasn’t really their faults, but guilt and fear settled deep within the girls hearts.

The party of three had been reduced to one.Falin was alone now.She sat on her bed, gloomy and crestfallen.Her head hung low, her pale blond hair cascading gently towards the floor.The two people she cared for the most were gone;No amount of revival magic could fix the damages.Laios, her brother who had protected her since they were little, and Marcille, her best friend till the end of time, gone with in a blink of an eye.She questioned how she would move on, maybe winning wouldn’t even be worth it anymore.

Maybe what Falin needed was to join them…

Infected sat by Lampert again, watching him readjust his lampshade. Lampert could recall a time when Kasper attempted to fix his shade, but ultimately stole it from him.It was the angriest he ever was, but even in the moment, he was still happy, could still love and appreciate Kasper for who he was.Now, it was different.Infected couldn’t recall anything, his brain slowly decomposing into mush.He even forgot the name of his cat, who he’d loved and cherished deeply.He was forgetting himself, and Lampert was having trouble coping.

”S0…1s Th3 L4mPsH4d33 pArt 0F uR b0dy??”Infected asked, his tone sounding sarcastic.Lampert didn’t dare to even meet his gaze.”It’s interchangeable, but i suppose…it’s like…”

“…”

”…”

Since there was no good way for either of them to describe it, they remained silent.

Susie and Tenna mean while, were having a blast with the Tulpar gang.Due to Tenna and Daisuke making a temporary alliance, both duos were getting along swell.It was the first time either of them were smiling brightly.Tenna was enjoying himself, rambling with Daisuke about his interests and life goals.Daisuke listened intently, feeling immersed in his passions.Anya and Susie bonded over their differences.Anya found Susie’s strength and courage empowering.She wished to be bold and confident, but her own personal doubts and thoughts made that a difficult detriment.Susie thought Anya seemed nice, her sweetness seemed kind, reminding her a bit of Ralsei.

Shadow Milk continued parading around by himself as a one man band.He frolicked around the room to entertain himself.He still had Black Sapphire, so perhaps it’d be fine!Besides, he survived that second challenge with ease, so it wouldn’t be surprising if he made it to the final round.He had the advantage in charisma and charm, so he could take the win through trickery and his specialty;deceit!

Meanwhile, Eternal Sugar slept peacefully in her bed.It wasn’t as soft as the sugar clouds in her paradise, but anything would do.She’d cast aside her head piece and let it sit gently beside her.Space Boy sat close by, continuing to people watch.He thought just about everyone seemed trustworthy, aside from the abstract duo and Lampert.They reminded him of some of the weirder places in Headspace.

Above, Froggy and Ena continued to make plans on their next moves.Both seemed reluctant to continue, but they needed the money.They conversed amongst themselves quietly while the world moved around them.

Sebastian and Razputin sat together, Sebastian laying on his stomach while Raz sat in front of him.He was rambling on about being a psychic and enjoying his time spent as a junior Psychonaut back at home.He missed working alongside Sasha and Milla, and especially missed his girlfriend, Lilli.Sebastian quietly listened in, tired but still eager to learn.The kid seemed interesting to him.He was celebrated for his gifts back at home, unlike Sebastian.Sebastian was shunned and hated by most workers of the Hadal Blacksite, after all he did go on a kill spree just to escape the place, failing to even get out.

Raz reminded Sebastian of a certain someone.He felt similar to his friend Painter.The two both enjoyed talking and had various special interests and hobbies, not to mention a pretty good sense of humor.It made him smile, seeing Raz happily go on about something, whilst Sebastian would just listen in and occasionally response.For the little time they’d been together, it felt more like a small family then merely an alliance.

Daisuke Dishware and the occult duo sat together.Okarun and Daisuke discussed their experiences and stuff they could relate on.Okarun found it rather fascinating that Daisuke was simply some dish ware.Aside from all the dish motifs in his outfit, he looked normal.Momo let her head rest upon Okarun’s shoulder, sleeping quietly while chilling with the group.

As anticipated, the announcement system loudly crackled to life.

”Thy contestants, tis now lights outth.I recommendst thou stay alert and keepth thy wits about.”Rouxls said in his semi chipper tone.

Suddenly, the lights flickered, before dimming completely.It was barely visible in the room, but anything that happened could go unnoticed.A handful of guards scattered across the room, surveilling the scene.Most large groups split up, only the Tulpar and Fun Gang sticking together.Luckily, Susie and Daisuke had kept their bottles from the previous night, so they had a leftover weapon.

With Ena and Froggy, they now had the chance to engage their plan.They were going to go after anyone still sleeping during lights out.Eliminating any contestants who clearly weren’t trying would make the next games so much easier.

Sebastian, out of shock and possible fear, shot up from the ground, looking around the room.Raz sat still, confused as ever.The darkness heightened some of Sebastian’s senses, so he was at an advantage. Sweeping Raz off the ground and placing him onto his large shoulders, he began moving around the room rapidly. “What are you doing Sebastian?! We’re gonna crash into something!”Raz shouted.He was barely able to hold on, fingers slipping.”Just hang on kid, I don’t know what the hell’s going on either, we need to remain alert…”Sebastian responded, looking back up at him.Raz could see his bright, blue eyes shining in the dark, the light from his angled illuminating a small space.He nodded softly, trusting that Sebastian knew what he was doing.

Okarun, sensing danger in the area, immediately changed into his alternate form(I forgot what it’s called I’m sorry).Momo tried to make sense of what had happened.Daisuke, not being one for conflict, continued to peacefully sit down.”Let’s get going Momo…I’m feeling hella bummed, but I also don’t wanna die…so…”Okarun said, lending her a hand.Trusting him, she grabbed onto his hand, running close by his side.They could see the faintest light in the distance, one unnatural and moving quickly through the room, followed by a loud slithering sound.It sounded similar to that of the sand worm they’d encountered that one time.

Shadow Milk stood in the dark.He could see two different figures running in the dark, but paid no mind.Eternal Sugar continued to sleep without any worries.As per usual.He noticed someone else, standing still in the darkness.Falin stood stoically, staring into her pale palms as if they had the answers she needed.The noise stung like pricks to her skull.Slowly, he advanced towards her, aimlessly staring.

Lampert and Infected sat in the darkness together.For a moment, it felt quaint, yet anxious.Lampert resisted the urge to turn his light on, but he knew that considering the noises, there would be no point.Infected, for once, felt…different.The sounds and smells hit wrong, but right.His fingers shaky, looked for something to hold onto.Lampert could feel Kasper moving around, his hands gently touching the metal of his hands.”Kasper, what are you doing?”Infected stopped for a moment to think.”S0rry I can’T S3e 4nYthiNg, c0uLd you just…h0Ld my H4nd?”He questioned.For once, he didn’t ask why he’d been called Kasper like he usually would do.Hesitantly, Lampert slid his fingers in between Kasper’s.

Meanwhile, the abstract duo cruised behind Space Boy.He’d been mindlessly wandering, looking for someone to talk to.His strategy had been working, but he wasn’t sure what to expect now.The darkness made it difficult to see.Ena trailed close behind Space Boy, keeping a careful grip on the leftover bottle she had.Being blissfully unaware, he never saw her coming.Before he had a chance to react, Ena swung at the back of his head, shattering the glass bottle on his skull.He screamed in shock as he fell to the floor, scrambling to back up.Blood begin dripping from his forehead, bits of glass being lodged in his skin.His head felt like needles were stabbing at his brain.

Space Boy, while being unarmed, got up, running at Ena with his arms outstretched towards her.She backed away, but wasn’t fast enough.Space Boy grabbed her arms, making sure she couldn’t move them.Her legs pushed against the ground, trying to propel outward.Froggy watched in horror, unsure of what to do.Chunks of the glass splayed across the floor, piercing and scraping their feet.Space Boy kicked Ena down, having her land back facing on the remaining shards.Through batted breath, he stood still.Everything stung.

Ena, seeing an opportunity, grabbed the largest shard in the mess and got up once more.Instead of fully charging at Space Boy, she threw the shard directly at his vitals, stabbing into him again.Stumbling back, Space Boy pulled out the shard before chucking it right at Ena’s head.Froggy ran to stop it, but it was too late.With no more remaining strength, Space Boy fell to the ground, and Ena collapsed, leaving the floor a disgusting mess.

Froggy stared in disbelief.They’d really killed eachother, hadn’t they?

Throughout his reckless pursuit, Sebastian avoided danger like the plague.A sound of a struggle? Run.A mysterious light? Run.It wasn’t till he rolled over something sharp, that he realized something was seriously wrong.It was a pain that stung, and remained.He gazed down to see what had happened, and heard a small gasp from Razputin.”What the hell…?” Froggy looked up at Sebastian, shaking his head.He hadn’t done anything wrong, he didn’t even get why Ena had ran off to do that. Sure, they were planning to start chaos, but they didn’t mean to have one of their own die so quickly.

”It’s not my fault, she started, I tried…”Before Froggy could finish, Sebastian grabbed him, looking at carefully.No traces of blood, he was entirely clean.Absentmindedly, he threw him to the wall, running off again.

The demon hunters ran throughout throughout the room, keeping an eye out, but otherwise, not taking the offensive.

The largest group of them all, the Tulpar people, along with a single lightner and darkner, hid quietly out of sight.

Throughout the dim night, more chaos occurred.The darkness kept people awake, surprisingly.By the morning, one more was dead.Falin was found lifeless, standing solemnly beside her bed.Her body was covered in strings, many around vital spaces, but no blood was found at the scene.There were subtle signs of a struggle, blue bits of dough found around.Whoever the suspect was, they’d surely gotten off scot free.

For now, the sleep deprived must stave off the inevitable consequences of the next night.

Chapter Text

The blinding lights from above shone brightly onto the room.By morning, things had become calmer, but tensions remained.The entire group was split up into two, the guards going by who was on each side of the room.

Team 1:Tenna, Daisuke, Anya, Infected, Lampert, Sebastian Solace, Razputin, Eternal Sugar

Team 2:Shadow Milk, Daisuke Dishware, Okarun, Momo, Froggy, Susie, Rumi, Zoey,

Each side lined up on their respective tracks.Due to people concerns, some people were swapped away from their duos.Susie was swapped, mainly due to the fact she had been on a different side of the room during people counting.Eternal Sugar was split from Shadow Milk, seeing as they had a tendency to not get along well.

Little context had been given, but the game was Tug of War, plain and simple. The drop to the bottom seemed arduous and far.No one would survive a fall from such a height.Each track was a thin platform, very easy to fall from.

Tenna watched Susie from afar, and she returned the look.They were terrified, knowing that only one would make it out.Neither was sure how this would turn out, but it could only end one way.Tenna’s hands shook like a madman, trying to hold the rope.Susie had a stern grip, one that hurt and bruised her hands.

Infected and Lampert were back to the awkward side eyes and nonsensical chats.”O00h I R3mEmB3r pL4y1nG T1iS b3fOr3 1N 3l3MeNtry Sk00L..!”Infected exclaimed, smiling brightly as he held the rope loosely in his hands.”I’m surprised you’d remember that Kasper.”Lampert commented, a small smile on his face.His wire tail stung around, most likely stimming.It was nice that he remember something.”1 kN0w cus E3lom3ntary sko0L w4S fUN!”Infected loudly shouted, causing other teammates to give him side eyes as well, not just Lampert this time.

Sebastian tried his best to balance on the platform.It wasn’t accommodated to his needs, he was much too large.He could still hold onto the rope, so it was worth it.”Alright, I need you to listen here, ok? I got a game plan that’ll work for sure, you just gotta listen.”Sebastian said to Raz, leaning down to look at him.He nodded softly, a smile on his face.”When the game starts, I’m going to grab the rope and pull extremely hard.I need you to hold on as tight as you possibly can, that way you don’t go flying. Sounds good?”

Raz stared at Sebastian for a good minute.

”You literally threw me across the room that one time.”

”…”

”Sounds fun though, let’s do it!”

Eternal Sugar languidly picked at the rope, bored out of her mind.She wasn’t one for sports or games, but now she needed to actively participate? Ugh. She wanted to go back to sleep, slumbering quietly in the artificial light.She wasn’t the beast of sloth for nothing after all.Despite her circumstances, she would at least try, right?

Daisuke and Anya practiced together, trying to find a good strategy.”So Anya, you gotta hold your hands like this, keep a tight grip on the rope, ok?”Daisuke instructed, showing off his example.Anya did the same, with a little more looseness.”I think I’ve got it?”She asked, looking at Daisuke.”Yeah, that’s pretty good! I think we’ve got this down.How you feeling?What’s the weather on Anya Street?”He replied, letting go of the rope to do finger guns.Anya chuckled to herself softly, enjoying Daisuke’s enthusiasm.”Well, I guess I could say…sunny with a chance of rain?”She responded.Daisuke grinned, finding her response to be charming.”Rain?Pfft, there won’t be rain with me around! You can stand under my umbrella, Ella, Ella, AIIIIII”

”Don’t worry, we can do this together!”

On team 2, the same cheerful and encouraging behavior was kept.

”We’ve got this team, we can win with the power of friendship!”Shadow Milk happily exclaimed, twirling around atop the rope like a circus act.The others stared at him, but still continued to believe.

”We can do this! Do it for Mira and Ena, who so bravely went out! Do this for my glorious Candy Apple Cookie, they all deserved a better fate.I- WE can win this!”Shadow Milk cheered on.”Let’s go Team 2!”Momo shouted, supporting Shadow Milk.Okarun, along with Huntrix and Froggy, all joined in on their rally.Daisuke Dishware nodded along quietly.”For the Dishware and the humble kitchen!”.The team spirit was lifted, they all were feeling great about this, everyone except Susie.She knew the cost of winning.Tenna would be gone, along with the others who cared about her.The Tulpar gang were so kind to her, and she wanted to stay by their side.There wasn’t a true way out.

”Thou may startth, don’t fall, lest thy soul die.”With that, a starting bell rung, urging everyone to start.

Sebastian, as he’d promised, grabbed onto the rope as hard as he could and yanked.Raz barely held on, almost falling backwards.The others held on, all except Eternal Sugar.The other team struggled for a comeback.They were impressed with Sebastian’s strength.Eternal Sugar meanwhile, slipped under the sheer force and fell into the void.Her wings didn’t have enough time to spread, and she was lost to the abyss.

Shadow Milk looked almost concerned, but smiled maliciously.”Heave!Ho!Heave!Ho!”He commanded, the team following his footsteps.Okarun turned into his alternate form, using his strength to regain the space they’d lost.Momo used her ghost hands to assist with the move.The Huntrix duo, along side the other Daisuke, pulled rigorously.They needed this win after what had happened.For Mira, as Shadow Milk had stated.Froggy used his large and grippy hands to keep a hold on the rope.Susie didn’t do anything, too afraid to even pull against the enemy.

Infected and Lampert used their combined strength to tug as hard as they could.It was extremely hard to keep a footing, especially after the absolute jumpscare that was Sebastian’s attack.Tenna tugged as hard as he could, reluctantly pulling the rope.He didn’t want to see Susie go down, but he wanted to remain relevant.He had a larger audience now, and he could dare disappoint.As bad as he felt, he needed to persist.Anya and Daisuke worked hard, pulling as much of the weight as they could.Luckily, most of the people on the other side weren’t extremely heavy.Raz offered his strength as much he could.He tried using his telekinesis, but it wasn’t working well.Sebastian continued to heave and draw back the rope.

After a few more minutes, people began to grow tired.The heartfelt cheers and encouragement from Team 2 had gone quiet, being reduced to low effort quotes to save face.Team 1 continued to heave and pull, although much more languidly.

”Hey, team!I got an idea, I still got some leftover energy.”Sebastian said, exclaiming to the rest of his group.”Use all the power you’ve got, and pull-“Without another word and hesitation, they delivered.The rope slipped from some of the hands of Team 2, as some of them began to trip.Zoey’s stern grip loosened as she fell.Before she tumbled down, she grabbed Rumi’s hand for help, only to bring her down as well.Froggy’s large hands ended up betraying him, the rope flinging him off into the void.”NOOO, COME ON GUYS, DON’T DO THIS TO MEEEEEEEEE”Shadow Milk screamed, ushering the rest of the team to fight back.

But alas, the weight had been reduced.With another tug from Team 1, Team 2 all fell except one.Susie let go of the rope as the rest of the team fell into the darkness below.She stared at the sight quietly, feeling some form of melancholy well up in her chest.She was alive? How had a guard not shot her down yet, she lost?

”Thus, this concludes thy game.Susie shalst be allowede to surviveth for now, as we needth even numbers.”

As the groups returned back to the room, everyone was filled with a sense of relief and joy.They’d survived, and it was almost over now.Just a few more games, and they could be done, or done for.

Chapter Text

The remaining 8 contestants stumbled back into the room.This time, they had food and refreshments again for the contestants. Instead of the bread this time, they had small cups of instant noodles, although not name brand or anything.

Susie stuck close by Tenna, still spooked from the last game.The two held hands, Susie holding on tightly.Daisuke and Anya walked close by, rambling to eachother.They were in their own little worlds, seemingly unfazed from the last game. Infected carried Lampert on his back, running into the room faster than everyone else. Lampert was surprisingly more calm about it than he’d be usually.Raz laid within Sebastian’s arms.He’d passed out after the game, mostly due to exhaustion and fatigue.The kid hadn’t eaten since the day before.

The remaining contestants received their food and refreshments, before walking back to their respective beds.The lights went out afterwards.Instead of the same, hectic environment of the last night or the apathetic quiet of the first night, it was different.It was more of the planning period.The quad squad of the Tulpar duo, alongside the ones of the light and dark, remained in their same group, while the other four remained distanced.

”Hey…Tenna…”Susie chimed in, looking up at him.She took the tab piece off her soda, taking a large sip.”Yes…?”He replied.His CRT screen glowed dimly in the darkness.”Are you feeling ok? You’ve been rather glum after what happened.If not, I understand-“Tenna cut in,”I’m fine Susie! You don’t need to worry about me! Besides, I’m always groovy, never glooby!”He cheered on, waving his hands nervously.Susie glanced at him suspiciously, not falling for the facade.”I…”She sighed briskly, realizing she might not be able to get through to him.

”It’s fine to tell us how you feel Tenna, it’s ok to be a little…glooby?”Anya spoke up, trying to add to the conversation.She hesitated to use the slang Tenna used, unsure of what exactly glooby meant.”Yeah man, it’s completely fine! To be honest, I’m not feeling the greatest either.”Daisuke added in whilst shoving cold noodles into his mouth.Tenna sat there for a moment, letting the silence ruminate.

“…”

”…”

”FINE, I AM GLOOBY, I’M NOT GROOVY!”

Tenna placed his hands on the floor, groveling at the entire group’s mercy.”I WAS SO SCARED THAT ROUND, I THOUGHT YOU WERE GONNA DIE SUSIE!THEY SCARED THE ABSOLUTE(Hyperlink blocked)OUT OF ME, I’M SORRYYYYYYYY”Tenna apologized profusely, almost crying from his guilt.Susie dropped her soda, saddened by the sight.Daisuke’s small smile turned into a frown, Anya held her head low.”It’s fine Tenna, I was terrified too…you guys are some of the few people I know who genuinely care about me.If you guys were gone, winning the award would’ve had no meaning.Sure, I’d still have Ralsei, but I would’ve lost the few people who raised me up in my moments of despair.”Susie replied, a small but sad grin beginning to form on her face.Tenna looked up, his antennas drooping downwards.

”You mean it…?”

”I mean it with every fiber in my body.”

”You guys wanna do cheers?” Daisuke interjected, raising his soda..Anya raised her can, alongside Tenna.Susie looked back at her spilled drink, the soda fizzing across the floor.She grabbed it quickly, checking for any leftover soda.Luckily, there was some.”Eh sure, why not.If this is our last night as a group, I just wanna say…”

”Thank you for the love.”

Lampert and Infected sat together again, staring at each other quietly.”So, how are you feeling Kasper? You getting better or not?”Lampert asked, glancing at him wistfully.”W3Ll…someth1ng aB0ut th3 d4rkness…f3els nostaLg1c 1N some sTr4nge w4ys…”He responded.Infected’s glitchy voice was more calm than before, sounding almost human again.”Maybe it’s like those times we’d play on your game console in your apartment.You’d turn off the lights and we’d play in the television’s glow.”Lampert recalled, flipping around to lay on his stomach, the metal of his body creaking gently.

”1 diD that?”Infected questioned.He scratched his head, confused and perplexed.”Yeah…it was a while ago…back when you remembered who Kasper was.”Lampert told him.He kicked his feet back and forth slowly.His tail swayed hypnotically.”W3 sHouLd d0 th4T 4gain man! Th4T sounds s0 3p1C!!”Infected exclaimed, swinging his arms up excitedly.”Yeah, if we ever get the hell out of here, maybe we could explore the Rokea again.”Lampert added on.Infected continued to get even more excited, pumping his arms up and down.

”1f we w1n, mayb3 we c0uLd f1naL1y livE together! You wouldn’t n33d tO sT4y in R0k34 anymor3! We’ll c4L1 1t, the K4sp3R and Lampert fort, 4Nd-“Lampert’s tail suddenly went still, surprised that one single word.Kasper.Infected had called himself Kasper.Was he remembering things now? His disease was causing him to forget things, mainly himself and the people he loved, so what was happening?”1s someth1ng wr0nG?”Infected asked, looking back at Lampert.”You called yourself Kasper again…”

”W3Ll, I think 1T5 mY name.I d0n’t FuL1y remember JU5t y3t.”Infected replied, continuing to scratch his head.”I’m glad you can at least remember some things…”

”Hey, Lampert…4r3 wE sT1Ll friends?”

”…yes.”

Sebastian laid out on the floor, his back against the wall.Raz sat beside him, eating his dinner by himself.Sebastian gave him the food he received, not really needing it.”So…if either of us win…what do you wanna do…?”Raz asked in between mouthfuls of food, looking up at Sebastian curiously.Sebastian looked down at him, absentmindedly twiddling with his fingers.”Honestly…I could buy my way out of my situation.Maybe find a way to get fixed…if not…I don’t really want the prize money.”He responded, staring off into distant oblivion.

”What’s your problem anyways, you keep avoiding the question? I’m not scared or anything.”Raz asked again.Sebastian wistfully turned back to him, holding his hands together.He appeared far more alert than before, needing to answer the questions, but still being skeptical.”You sure about that pipsqueak?”He teased Raz, poking at his aviator helmet.”I am! I’ll have you know I single handedly stopped a national crisis by sorting through my grandma’s emotional baggage and trauma. I can handle that kind of stuff, it’s kinda my job..!”Raz exclaimed, setting down his cup in a fit of pride.

”Alright alright.Just hope you can sleep tonight.”

Sebastian sighed solemnly, taking his time before speaking again.

”I wasn’t always like this…I was human.I was…happy.Had a loving family and a good career.I was…framed for something though, murder.Without any remorse, the legal system fucked me over, they put me on death row…that was…until those absolute assholes at Urbanshade gave me that stupid offer.They took me in, promising me that I would go towards good purposes, ones that would benefit society and humanity as a whole.I was lied to, I think we all were…”Sebastian paused for a moment, folding his fingers together in thought.”That sounds awful…”Raz said, looking back at Sebastian.The two briefly made eye contact, but darted away from eachother.

”Where was I…oh yeah…the worst part. They experimented on me, tearing me apart and putting me back together in an endless cycle, spreading my blood and viscera across their tables.Never keeping a record of each procedure, the social workers trying to soothe scars that would never heal.Painter was one of my few sources of pure happiness.I left him behind for this bullshit, wasn’t even my…”Sebastian trailed off, the thought being lost to the wind.

”Choice…?”Raz asked, his tone sounding flatter.The boy seemed to of calmed down, something in him understanding this wasn’t the time to act rambunctious.Sebastian nodded.He wiped at his eyes, not realizing he was tearing up.”I didn’t have much of a choice with my life either…for awhile.From the moment I was born, I was meant to be a circus performer, it was the destiny my parents had in mind for me…I ran away from home to become a Psychonaut though, honestly a great decision.Eventually, I was accepted, but I don’t hate where I came from.I was taught that my abilities were a bad thing…that being a psychic was a disgrace.I embraced it though, I love my powers, even if it means others don’t accept them.I’m not sure if that correlates with what you experienced or anything…I just wanna be there for you, dad-“

What the hell did he just say?

Sebastian held back a small chuckle.

”Sebastian! I meant to say Sebastian!It was a slip of the tongue!”

”Nah, it’s fine kid…call me whatever you want…anyways…I’m gonna turn in, I’m exhausted.”Sebastian said, closing two of his eyes, leaving the top one open.

”Thanks…dad.” (Father figure acquired)

With that, the night slowly came to an end.The morning ahead was going to be dreadful, the dawn of the day shaping to be the most grim yet…

Chapter Text

The lights flooded the room with brightness.It was the dawn of the fourth day. Each contestant stood in the waiting room, anxiously anticipating and wondering.They had to all partner up for this game.

The quad squad of the Tulpar team and the ones of dark and light gathered together.They strategized together.Considering the next game included duos, it could only mean trouble.Susie decided to go with Daisuke, seeing that he didn’t wanna pair with Anya in fear that she’d lose.Therefore, Tenna decided to team with her instead.

Lampert and Infected teamed together, after all they were best friends.It’d make sense to work together if they were going up against anyone.

Sebastian decided to team with Raz, due to their strong relationship and skills.No teams yet were sure of how this next game would go.

Group 1-Infected/Kasper and Lampert

Group 2-Daisuke and Susie

Group 3-Tenna and Anya

Group 4-Sebastian and Raz

Each group walked into the marble rooms, guards standing at every cubby and corner.Both people in the groups were gifted a small bag of marbles, their shiny surfaces glowing like the sun.Most chose to play the traditional marble game except one group, group 3, who chose an alternative.Instead, they chose to throw their marbles closest to the walls.

Infected and Lampert sat together, pulling out the amount of marbles they wanted.”So, you basically guess if the amount I have is odd or even, ok Kasper?”Lampert instructed, clenching his palm to hide the marbles.His metal hands rubbing against the round surface of the marbles was ear grating, but expected.”4Lr1Ght!”Infected replied in his usual chipper tone.He smiled brightly while trying to hide his marbles.His hands were sweaty, so it was hard to keep a good grip.

”Hey Kasper? If you win this match, promise to not tell anyone back at home what happens to me.”Lampert asked, looking glumly at Kasper.”0h n0nS3ns3, Y0u’LL w1N f0r SuR3! I c4N’t 3VEN c0uNt t0 T3n!”Infected exclaimed, returning a concerned look.Lampert sighed, clearly not convinced.”B3s1De5, I’m s1Ck 4F, tH3re’D b3 N0 p01nT!”Infected added.”That’s not…”Lampert sighed.

”I just want you to be better…”

”Hey…Daisuke?”Susie asked, sorting through her marbles.She wanted to get rid of the less pleasant looking marbles first.”Yeah?”Daisuke replied.He already had his marbles ready.”If I die this match…will you try and win for the sake of the group? If Tenna doesn’t make it, I’m not sure what I’ll do.Anya hasn’t really expressed wanting to win either, so please just…don’t do anything drastic.”

Daisuke stared for a moment, unsure of what to say.He wanted him and Anya to win, mainly to get out of their shitty living conditions. Anya was so kind and deserved much better than what happened on the Tulpar.He only wanted the best for her.Tenna though…although he cared a lot for everyone, he couldn’t fully trust him. With him going up against Anya, who knows what kind of tricks he’d pull.He didn’t wanna lose Anya, but Tenna was somewhat important too.

”I’ll try to make it as far as I can…”

Tenna and Anya stood together, gathering marbles from their bags.Anya stared at the wall ahead, marble in hand.”So who’s going first?”Tenna asked, glancing down at Anya.She didn’t respond.Tenna stood with his hands on his hips, waiting quietly for an answer.

”What are you aspiring to do if you win…”Anya asked, gazing into her marble as if it held the secrets to the universe.”Me? Well…I wanna upgrade my show! Try and make everything better and great.I wanna be able to live the life I dreamed of…I wanna be seen as more than an old CRT…and I wanna be loved and appreciated.With Kris gone, I’m not sure if my life will work out the same, and I don’t wanna lose Susie either.That Spammy mailman might see that I have what it takes, maybe he’ll come back…”Tenna rambled on, tossing his marble to the wall, rolling it gently on the floor.

Anya languidly threw her first marble.The two watched it roll towards the wall, barely getting close.”Alright…I guess that makes sense.I hope you win, or at least get close.”Anya said.Tenna nodded, tossing the next one.

Raz sat in Sebastian’s lap.The two wasted no time trying to start.”What’s it gonna be kid?”Sebastian asked, holding up his closed palm.Raz took a moment to think, before blurting out even. With the psychic powers he had, Sebastian was sure he would’ve gotten it right, but he was wrong.”I’ll get it next time, you don’t need to worry.”Raz reassured.He hesitantly handed some of his marbles to Sebastian, who reluctantly accepted them.

”Alright, odd or even?”Raz asked, smiling gently as he closed his palm to show Sebastian.”Even.”Raz sat dumbfounded for a moment.Sebastian was right and he was wrong again.He didn’t wanna open his palm.They’d already started and he was losing too soon.”It’s even…”

”…Better luck next time I suppose, I guess it’s my turn now.”

As the games continued, they all went around the same pacing.The guards wandered from cubby to cubby, spectating the players. The loud clinks of the marbles gently ricocheted from the walls.No games had an obvious winner yet, all except one.

”What are you doing?!”

Tenna grabbed the last marble from Anya’s hand, fear and sorrow in his expression.She didn’t seem to care, letting Tenna hold up her hand with the marble in it.”I’m just doing what I deem necessary…”She muttered, smiling gently.She looked back to the marbles on the ground.All of Tenna’s marbles stood by the wall, Anya’s spacing out further.They were thrown with little effort.

”I can’t let you do this to yourself! You deserve a chance!”Tenna pleaded.His hands trembled, his grip on Anya’s hand loosening.He felt shameful and angry about what he was doing.He didn’t mean to grab her like that.”I have nothing to return to…you have so much ahead of you…”Anya murmured.”Trust me, this isn’t my worse moment.”

”Anya! Please! Think about Daisuke! He wouldn’t want this!” Tenna continued to beg.He let go of her hand, still feeling fearful for her next move.”Daisuke will be fine…he still has Swansea…”Anya said, staring at her final marble.”Daisuke’s a good kid…he’ll make it out…you don’t need to worry so much Tenna.”

”What about Curly?!”

Anya deadpanned at the sound of his name.Curly had died the first round.Had she already forgotten about that? Curly…he was a good friend.Yet, he wasn’t exactly perfection, he couldn’t fix everything as she’d thought was possible.Jimmy was a still a problem, and would continue to be.She cared for Curly though, even if it wasn’t meant to be.

”Curly…at least I’ll be able to join him.”

Anya tossed her last marble to the wall, a small smile brightening her face.

”ANYA!”

Tenna held out his hands to her, frozen in place.Anya stared at the wall, awaiting her demise.A guard turned the corner, hearing Tenna’s scream of terror.”Sir please, can we try a different game? Please?”Tenna pleaded with the guard.Anya watched quietly from where she stood.The guard looked down at the game they’d played. Tenna-9, Anya-1.A landslide of a win.Without hesitation, the guard raised their rifle and shot.

Anya fell to the ground, with a newfound hole in her head.Blood spilled from her forehead as she laid upon the unwelcoming ground.Tenna quickly knelt down, picking her lifeless body up.Tenna gazed at Anya’s face, feeling himself trembling.Her cold eyes stared back, unwaveringly unaware.There was nothing that could be done now.It wasn’t fixable.

Tenna held Anya gently, trying to hold himself together as well.It was taking everything he had not to burst into uncontrollable sobs.

”I’m so sorry…I-I couldn’t help…or do more…I’m sorry…”

Daisuke and Susie continued playing their marble game.After hearing that loud scream coming from another game, Daisuke couldn’t help but feel something was wrong. Despite that, he continued to play. He had the lead, Susie scrambling to try and salvage the win.

”Odd or Even?”Daisuke said, holding up a closed fist.Susie thought for a moment.She tried to analyze his hand position, seeing if she could count how much was in there from the small holes between his fingers.”Odd…?”Susie guessed.Daisuke sighed, she was wrong again.He could only lament on what was to come.He almost all of her marbles, he only needed two more.”You’re wrong…”Daisuke replied, opening his palm to reveal six marbles.

Susie looked off to the side before handing in her last marbles.

”I feel you already know who’s gonna win…I’ll let you have it.Good game…”

”Susie, we have a little bit of time left, the guards won’t be here for a minute.We have time for proper goodbyes…”

Susie and Daisuke stood up from the ground, wary and nervous.”Thank you for playing with me, you were a worthy opponent.If Tenna’s still alive, tell him I tried my best.If Anya’s still around….you can tell her the same.I guess I’ll see you on the flip side?” Susie declared, putting her hands on her hips.”Very well.I hope you had fun.You were also really nice to play against.I’ll tell em, don’t worry.”

With that, a guard walked by their game, saw they were finished, and Susie was dead.

Daisuke stared at Susie’s dead body for a moment, questioning his own sanity.Someone he was friends with was gone now…maybe he still had Anya though.Tenna was ok of a friend, but even so, he didn’t fully trust him yet.Maybe if Daisuke made out alive, he could hang out with Swansea or if Anya was still around, he could hangout with her.He missed spending time with his loved ones, and he couldn’t wait to get out of there.

”Kasper…how many marbles do you have left?”Lampert asked, looking at his beloved friend with melancholy.”Uhh, l1k3 4? 3?”Infected responded, staring into the palm of his hands.There were 3 marbles left in his bag.”I could spare you some of mine, if you need them.”Lampert said.He pulled out two marbles from his bag, handing them to Infected.Almost immediately, he pushed Lampert’s hand away.”1 don’t n3eD th3m.I c4N win th15 0N mA1 0Wn!”

Lampert sighed sadly, before taking them back.”Odd or even…”

”Odd!”

”Your wrong again…”

Infected squinted, surprised he’d gotten it wrong once more.He shrugged, before hand over one of his last remaining marbles.Holding up his marbles in his fist, he asked Lampert again.”’m guessing…odd?”He responded.”N0p3 YoU g0t 1t wR0nG!”Infected exclaimed opening his palm to reveal his final two marbles.”Alright, alright.You got me that time.”

The round continued to be the same back and forth for awhile.Neither of wanted to lose or win.Truly, there was only way it could end.Fate couldn’t be avoided, but the two were determined to keep going.The marbles between them remained the same amount;Lampert 18, Infected 2.The two languidly let the match drag on for what felt like an eternity, an infinitely long period of exchanging the same 2 marbles.

With an exasperated sigh, it was Lampert’s turn to guess.”It’s odd?”

”W3 c4n’T k3eP d01Ng this Lampert!”We’r3 0nLy d3L4yiNg the inevitable!”

Infected tossed his final marbles to Lampert.He only had two left, so Lampert would’ve taken one.

”Kasper stop, please.You deserve to win.”

”N0, 1’m s1Ck 0f th15 l3T it b3!”

”Kasper you don’t understand, I just-“

”WE H4V3 NO REA50N T0 K3EP G01NG, JU5T L3T ME DO TH1S!”

”I LOVE YOU TOO MUCH KASPER, I CAN’T LET YOU GO!”

A stunted silence filled the room.Kasper stared at Lampert, feeling tears welling up from his eyes.Lampert sat quietly, his head hung low.”1’m sorry Lampert…1t’5 f4t3’s design…”Kasper choked, wiping the tears from his eyes.”There’s nothing w3 c4N d0…w1N the g4Me for me 0k…”Lampert suddenly grabbed Kasper, holding him in his cold, metallic arms.”You can’t do this…please…”

”Why do you care so much…”

Before Lampert could answer the burning question, he could hear the sound of footsteps behind him.The guard meant to be watching them had come back.”1 Lo5T, t4K3 me…”Kasper blurted out, standing up with his arms behind his head.He was surrendering, going down without a fight.The guard had no choice but to oblige.They raised their gun, shooting Kasper straight in the chest as his blood and viscera splayed across the walls, his lifeless body falling back into Lampert’s arms.

A bright smile was painted across Kasper’s face, his dead eyes staring off into a distant nowhere.Bliss, everywhere bliss, it was telling in his expression.

Lampert couldn’t hold back his tears anymore.He choked out sobs, holding Kasper close to him.He didn’t mind the blood staining his shirt or the possibility of getting sick, he only wanted to hold his friend one last time.He murmured apologies that fell on deaf ears, cried tears no one could see.If only he’d had more time, these feelings wouldn’t be nearly as complicated.

”It’s because I love you, Kasper…I love you…I cared too much…look what happened…I’m sorry I couldn’t cure you, couldn’t fix you…if I’d been there for you, this would never happen…never again…I love you…I’m so sorry…who’s gonna save us now…”

The room was quiet…what was there to say.3 games over, one final game to end the round.

”Kid…last one…please get this right…odd or even?”

Raz gave Sebastian a thousand yard stare, knowing his choices may decide his fate.

”I don’t wanna do this anymore…”

Sebastian sighed, taking his hand back to change out the amount he had.He used only one this time, trying to even the scores.They’d been pretty much the same until now.”Listen kiddo…I don’t want you to cheat…I’m just as upset as you are. Just pick something and let us get this done…”Sebastian ushered, holding his hand towards Raz.Raz stared for a moment, a nervous sweat on his face.”I can’t…this isn’t right.I don’t wanna die…!”His fingers shook, trying to keep himself together.

”Don’t remind me of what might happen…”

”Its…even…?”

”Shit-“

Sebastian looked away, opening his palm to reveal the singular marble.Raz stared in terror.He only had two marbles left, he was done for.”Dad, it’s alright…you can just take the marbles, I give up…I’m tired of this game”Raz wavered.”Kid, no, you’ve still got a chance.I-I’ll guess wrong for you!”Sebastian said, holding Raz close.”I’m not letting you give up just yet!”

”But you wanted to win…I don’t care for the prize, I just want to have fun.”

The guards by their area sat on high alert, not sure if the game was over yet.Sebastian held Raz close, seeing that there wasn’t much else to be done.”You can’t do this, you’re just a child…!You have so much ahead of you.”

”I don’t wanna die…but we have no other choice.”

With that, a guard raised their gun and pointed at Raz, suspecting the game had ended.Sebastian coiled up around Raz, trying to protect him.

”He’s just a kid, you can’t do this!”

The guard seemed to hesitate for a moment, his fingers shaking on the trigger.Another guard came over, taking the gun from his hands.”Release the boy or we’ll kill you both…”They threatened, pointing the gun straight at both of them.Raz looked back in despair, trying to slip away from Sebastian.His clutch on him was hurting now, it felt like he was being crushed.

”I’LL NEVER LET YOU HAVE HIM, TAKE ME INSTEAD!”

The guards gave each other side eyes.One flipped on their intercom piece, the other holding the gun.Sebastian’s grip on Raz loosened, seeing how uncomfortable he’d become. “Just let me go…give my parents my condolences…tell Lilli I love her.”Raz required, his eye lids heavy as he finally crawled away from Sebastian.Sebastian held out his hands in desperation, but deep down, he knew he couldn’t have what he wanted.

The guards with the gun raised it at Raz, shooting him without the other guard’s consent.Raz fell to the floor, his helmet rolling off and hitting the nearby wall.It was taking every fiber in Sebastian’s being to not pounce on the guards and rip them to shreds.The guards quickly ran away before they could take accountability for their mistake.Sebastian was too stunned to speak, but not too much to move.

He walked over to Raz’s side, staring dully at the mess.His expression contempt, he never wanted this either.Sebastian picked up the helmet Raz owned.It was still as robust as ever.He took the goggles off, wearing them for himself.”I keep them safe for you…I don’t think I’ll get to do what you’ve asked of me, but I’ll try my best…”

The announcement system blared above, signaling the damned game had ended already.The final four contestants walked out, miserable and blood soaked. Tenna looked ghastly, the cheery atmosphere he’d kept fading to static.Daisuke looked just as concerned, staring at Tenna.Anya was gone…Susie was gone…was it really just them.Lampert was still and quiet, unsure of what to say or do.He could feel a strange buzzing sensation stirring up in his wire’s, making his systems feel fuzzy. Sebastian couldn’t even look up from the ground, too busy lost in thought.

As the contestants walked back to the room, it was clear now, it was finally clear.The theories and thoughts everyone had was wrong, everything they thought were lies, they could all see it now.

Only one person would be getting out alive.

Chapter Text

Y’all im sorry, it’s not that this ain’t fun to work on, TLISAW is taking up much more time.I do have this all planned out, there’s just one issue….

My shitty parents!Woohoo…they are nice don’t get me wrong, but I have time limits on my phone which only gives me two hours a day(yikes).Anyways, it’s making me have to balance between this and any other activities I wanna get done.I’d appeal, but the parental court is hard to bargain with.Im in High School now, this bullshit is so silly…

On the flipside, I am working on Headcanons again so if that’s interesting.I also am working on that Medhammer fic still, not planning to start more(even though I want to.)

Oyasumi.