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youshouldhavepaidattentiondad · 2 months ago

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A Budding Conspiracy

Ao3

Summary: Best friends Ziggs and Skud didn't mean to stumble into what is possibly the biggest conspiracy in Hatchetfield. Upon learning what happens to the Honey Queen every year, the duo have to figure out who they can trust as they decide how far they'll go for answers.

It's been a while, but here's my entry for the @hatchetfield-bang this year!

The sun dips low in the sky, casting a cozy orange glow over the town of Hatchetfield. Main street is busy as citizens of the town prepare for tomorrow night.

Deep in the heart of Witchwood Forest, a small green pickup truck sits outside an old farmhouse. Ziggs sprawls out on the ground, soaking up the sun.

They should be working, the thought has crossed their mind. But Emma is spending the weekend in town with her boyfriend, so Ziggs is going to take the opportunity to relax.

The rumble of an approaching engine makes Ziggs crack open an eye lazily. Their bare toes wriggle in the soft blades of grass as they watch a beat up black sedan roll into the yard.

The car comes to a halt, the engine shutting off. The driver's door opens. “Hey, Ziggy,” Skud calls as he climbs out.

Ziggs grins, propping themself up on their elbows as they watch their friend approach. “Sup, man?” They greet, eagerly eyeing the case of hard ciders Skud carries.

“Not much. Glad to have a fucking break from rehearsals,” Skud replies as he plops down on the ground next to Ziggs. He brushes back his long, wavy hair. “Shouldn't you be, like, working right now?”

“Perky's not here,” Ziggs answers as they open the box of ciders. The bottles rattle slightly before becoming still again. “Besides, I don't think she'd be mad if I took a little break.”

Smirking, Skud reaches into his pocket to pull out a bottle opener. “Perky seems like a chill boss. Better than Thrash anyway.”

Ziggs holds out a bottle, letting Skud pop the top off before asking, “He still being a dick?”

“He's just mad cause Maevis Lyn has been super successful since breaking up with him and starting her own band,” Skud explains as he grabs himself a bottle from the box.

They sit in silence for a few minutes. A light breeze washes over them as they sip their ciders.

“Wanna go to the Honey Festival tomorrow?” Ziggs asks finally, “I wanna get some honey to infuse with weed.”

Snorting slightly, Skud replies, “Of course you do. I'm down, as long as we don't have to go to the Honey Queen pageant.”

“Yeah, no, fuck that,” Ziggs agrees. They drain the rest of their bottle before setting it in the grass between them and Skud. They pull out another bottle.

Before they can get Skud to open it for them, a stronger gust of wind blows over them, making the field of cannabis sway.

Ziggs retches, tugging their shirt up over their nose to try to block the smell the breeze carries. “The fuck is that gnarly smell?”

Nose wrinkling in disgust, Skud shrugs. “Maybe a timberwolf didn't finish eating something.”

“Nah, if a timberwolf left it, the nighthawks would have picked it clean.”

The wind dies down and Ziggs lets their shirt drop as the scent fades. “Probably the Metzgers and something weird over on their property.”

Skud nods as he opens the fresh bottle for Ziggs. “Probably,” he agrees.

The sun finishes setting, casting them in the glow of twilight. They head inside before the mosquitoes start to appear.

In the farmhouse, Skud raises the windows for the fresh air, the screens keeping the bugs out.

Ziggs emerges from the kitchen, a brownie in each hand. “Me and Perky baked them fresh earlier,” they inform Skud proudly.

“Are they left handed?” Skud asks even as he reaches for the one Ziggs offers.

“Brownies don't have hands.”

Skud takes a bite of brownie. “I meant do they have weed in them, dumbass.”

“Oh. Yeah, they do,” Ziggs laughs.

The moon slowly rises. Stars twinkle and shine down on the farmhouse. Inside, Skud and Ziggs lounge lazily on the couch, their brownies kicking in.

It happens again: a strong breeze filters through the window screen, carrying the same smell as before.

“Okay, what the fuck is that?” Skud demands as Ziggs gags.

“One way to find out,” Ziggs manages to get out. They stand, swaying slightly as they walk to the kitchen. They return shortly with two flashlights.

Skud stands unsteadily, taking one of the flashlights.

They venture past the fields and into the trees of the woods. The lights cast eerie shadows as they illuminate their way.

“I hope it's not a dead animal,” Ziggs says as they stumble over a tree root, bumping into Skud. “Fucking hate seeing dead animals.”

“I know you do.” Skud clumsily pats them on the back as they continue making their way.

After a bit of walking, they can hear voices up ahead, as well as see lights.

Instinctively, Ziggs switches off their flashlight, prompting Skud to do the same. They creep to the edge of the trees to see a clearing.

Torches cast the space and several figures in black robes in a hazy light.

In that light, they see the cause for the smell: A large pile of pig carcasses.

Ziggs claps a hand over their mouth, trying to fight the urge to vomit.

“-prepared for tomorrow night,” one of the robed figures says to a tall man with a thin mustache.

“...isn't that Roman Murray?” Skud whispers, leaning towards Ziggs.

It takes Ziggs a moment to focus, but when they do, they recognize the only figure not draped in a cloak. They nod, frowning at the scene.

“Excellent,” Roman replies, “I'll be here tomorrow night with our new Honey Queen. Hopefully she enjoys the ceremony.”

Dark laughter ripples through the clearing, sending shivers down both Skud and Ziggs’ spines.

Skud bolts first, his flashlight flickering to life as he tries to put as much distance between himself and the clearing.

It doesn't take long for Ziggs to follow.

The beams of their flashlights bounce and jerk as they race through the Witchwood. Ziggs feels like they don't breathe until they burst out of the trees, back in the safety of the farm.

Ziggs drops to the ground, panting heavily. Out of their peripheral, they see Skud doubled over, leaning against a nearby tree.

it takes several moments, but once they get their breath back, Ziggs’ first words are, “What the fuck?!”

“I… I don't know,” Skud admits. He straightens up, glancing over his shoulder. He pushes off the tree and reaches a hand out to help Ziggs off the ground.

They make it back into the farmhouse, collapsing on the couch. The air feels heavy, the weight of what they saw and heard hanging over them.

“Why do you think they have dead pigs for the Honey Queen?” Skud finally asks after several minutes, breaking the silence.

“Fuck if I know, man.” Ziggs shudders at the memory of the pig carcasses. “You think that's why she leaves every year? They scare her off with dead pigs?”

Skud contemplates this. “We could always go back tomorrow night. See what they do.”

“...yeah, we could,” Ziggs hesitates, “But, like, do we want to?”

More silence. Ziggs grabs their open cider and chugs the rest of it.

Yawning, Skud shrugs. “Maybe we decide tomorrow. Right now, I think it's time for bed.”

“Yeah. Come on up, the guest room is all made up for you.”

They make their way up the stairs, saying their goodnights at the landing before going into their respective rooms.

Ziggs changes into a loose tank top and a pair of sweats before climbing into bed.

It feels like they're asleep before their head touches the pillow.

The next morning, sunlight shines through the window of Ziggs’ room, falling across their face. Wincing, they slowly open their eyes, cringing back from the light.

Their whole body aches, like they got hit by a truck. Groaning, they roll over to climb out of bed.

Their bare feet pad down the stairs and they make a beeline for the kitchen to start a pot of coffee.

By the time it finishes brewing, Skud enters the kitchen, his bandana missing, leaving his messy curls hanging in his face.

Ziggs grabs two mugs, pouring them each a cup before passing one to Skud.

He gives an appreciative little grunt before taking a sip, hissing at the heat.

They settle at the kitchen table, snacking from the box of donuts sitting between them.

Finally, Skud speaks. “You remember last night?”

Memories flash through Ziggs’ mind: the smell, the pig carcasses, the conversation they overheard.

They swallow the donut they were eating, quickly chasing it down to a swig of coffee before answering, “Yeah. I'm guessing you do too.”

“Yeah,” Skud replies. He stares down at his coffee.

The silence feels uncomfortable. Ziggs reaches for another donut. “We could just forget it,” they suggest.

“We could,” Skud agrees, “But… what's one of the most powerful men in Hatchetfield doing in the woods late at night with people in robes and dead pigs?”

“... I don't know.”

Skud finally looks up from his coffee, brushing his hair back from his face to look at Ziggs seriously. “I say we, like, Scooby Doo this shit.”

Ziggs chuckles at this before seeing the look in Skud's eye. “Wait, for real?”

“Yeah, for real,” Skud confirms, “You in?”

Taking a sip of coffee, Ziggs considers it before nodding. “Yeah. Yeah, I'm in. Where do we start?”

Skud hums thoughtfully. “Roman Murray said they were going to bring the Honey Queen there…”

“...so we should probably go to the pageant,” Ziggs finishes with a groan. “I hate beauty pageants.”

“Same,” Skud agrees, “But, like, if we're going to find out what they're planning, I think we need to go.”

Another frustrated groan escapes Ziggs. “Fine.” They stand to go refill their mug. “We go to the Honey Festival, hit up some stalls, go to the pageant- wait, how are we gonna find our way back to that clearing?”

Skud blinks as if he hadn't considered that. “I mean, we found it last night. It shouldn't be too hard.”

“Yeah, okay, that makes sense.” Ziggs agrees. They check their watch. “Festival starts in a few hours. Imma have a brownie. You want one?”

“Do you even have to ask?” Skud stands as well, grabbing his mug on the way up.

Downtown Hatchetfield bustles with life. Vendor stalls line the streets, along with food trucks and carnival games.

Ziggs and Skud walk down the road toward the Starlight Theater. Ziggs carries a brown paper bag holding a jar of honey they bought earlier in the afternoon.

Next to them, Skud snacks on some cotton candy, the sugar turning his lips blue.

“Do we know anyone competing in the pageant?” Skud asks curiously.

“Dude, I don't even know who is competing,” Ziggs admits, “We weren't going to go, remember?”

They walk up the steps to the doors of the theater. Ziggs looks around. “You know, I don't think I've ever actually been in here.”

“Me either,” Skud admits.

They find seats near the back of the house. Almost all of the rows in front of them are full, crammed with citizens eager to see their new queen get crowned.

The lights over the auditorium go dark as a spotlight illuminates Professor Henry Hidgens, microphone in hand. “Welcome, Hatchetfield, to the Honey Queen Pageant!”

Avid applause fills the chamber, complete with some hoots and hollers. Ziggs rolls their eyes, reaching over to steal some of Skud's cotton candy.

“We have twenty very beautiful, very talented women here to put on their best for you folks,” Hidgens proclaims once the clapping has died down. “First-”

Ziggs tunes out the names as they stare at the stage. One name in particular catches their attention though: Charlotte Sweetly. It catches their attention because Skud smacks their arm when it's announced.

“What?” Ziggs hisses, rubbing their arm.

Skud looks at them seriously. “Isn't her husband a cop?” He asks before glancing around. “See, right there.”

Following Skud's gaze, Ziggs sees a uniformed officer clapping albeit half heartedly at the announcement of his wife's name.

“Yeah, so?” Ziggs whispers.

“I dunno, do you think the police are in on this too?”

Ziggs considers this before shaking their head. “Nah, man. I think this is bigger than small town cops. Much bigger.”

They go quiet as the question round begins. All of the answers seem generic: world peace, betterment for children, etc.

Then comes Charlotte's turn. Ziggs finally recognizes her. It's unusual seeing her in a royal purple evening gown instead of her usual knitted cat sweaters. She's transformed from frumpy to dazzling, with her curls framing her face.

“Okay, Charlotte, your question,” Hidgens starts before pausing for dramatic effect. “What is your biggest fear?”

Charlotte gives a dreamy smile. “I'd have to say my biggest fear,” She responds, “Is leaving Hatchetfield, because I know nowhere else could be as great.”

The crowd eats it up, going wild for the answer.

Skud frowns, leaning in towards Ziggs. “Isn't she usually, like, super timid when you see her around town?”

“Yeah,” Ziggs confirms before glancing at the cop again, who is applauding much more enthusiastically at his wife's reply. “Maybe she's trying to prove something to someone.”

After a few more questions to other participants, Hidgens announces the talent portion of the pageant.

Ziggs and Skud both groan lowly at this. It's a new kind of torture, listening to a grating violin that clearly hadn't been practiced in years. The rest of the acts that follow are equally as mediocre.

Then Charlotte comes onstage to perform Just for Once from The Barbecue Monologues. The pain In her voice, the utter desperation bleeds through every note. Ziggs isn't sure If they're imagining it, but it seems like every now and then throughout the song, she's looking directly at her husband instead of performing to the judges and audience.

By the end of the tune, Skud discreetly wipes away a couple tears. “I think she is trying to prove something,” he manages to croak out quietly.

Ziggs pats him on the back.

Once the talent portion completes, Hidgens returns to the stage. “Now, we're going to take a few minutes to let the judges deliberate- oh? You're ready?”

One of the judges stands, passing an envelope to Hidgens.

Straightening up, Hidges places the microphone in the stand. “Okay, Hatchetfield. Your Honey Queen this year is….” he pauses dramatically as he pulls the cars from the envelope. “...Charlotte Sweetly!”

Thunderous applause greets Charlotte as she comes back out on stage, beaming as Hidgens places a sparkling silver crown on her head.

“C'mon, we need to get back there,” Skud mutters as he nudges Ziggs.

Nodding, Ziggs stands.

They hurry from the theater, back to Ziggs’ truck. Once they're safely in the cab, Ziggs lets out a breath they didn't realize they were holding.

It's not until they're on the road, driving through the dark back to the farmhouse that Skud speaks. “What do you think they're going to do to her?”

“Fuck if I know, man,” Ziggs answers, voice shaking. They spare a glance over at Skud. “Last chance to back out.”

Skud shakes his head firmly. “I gotta know what happens.”

“Okay.” Ziggs presses their lips in a thin line.

The truck rolls to a stop next to the porch. The pair climb out, heading inside to grab flashlights before heading for the treeline.

“Maybe they just pay her to leave town,” Ziggs suggests as they cross the field.

“Why would there be dead pigs then?” Skud questions as they break step into the forest, stepping over gnarled roots.

Ziggs doesn't have an answer for that.

Silently, they wander through the trees, their flashlights cutting through the darkness.

After several minutes, Skud flips off his flashlight, prompting Ziggs to do the same.

Several yards ahead, Ziggs can make out the glow of torches. Swallowing heavily, Ziggs follows Skud almost to the treeline, trying to stay hidden in the shadows.

The seconds stretch into minutes. Ziggs feels like they're suffocating from anticipation.

Finally, a fancy car rolls up, headlights cutting through the trees. Skud and Ziggs both duck to avoid being seen.

As they stand up again, Roman Murray and Charlotte are climbing out of the car.

The ground rumbles slightly, making Ziggs and Skud both hold onto a tree for support. Hissing and popping fills the air as the pig carcasses begin to writhe.

Ziggs retches, covering their mouth with a hand as the pigs begin to stretch and meld into one another. Even from this distance, they can see the teeth from the bodies falling into neat rows until a huge, gaping maw appears, licking its lips.

A loud shriek fills the air as Charlotte turns to try to run. The figures in robes grab her, dragging her back over to the mouth.

“Hello, Charlotte,” the mouth greets with a smile. Its voice grates Ziggs’ ears. “Yum, yum.”

In horror, Ziggs and Skud watch as Charlotte gets lifted and devoured by the mouth in one bite.

Skud steps back first, his foot crashing down on a large branch with a sharp crack.

“What was that?” Roman demands, looking towards the trees.

Ziggs doesn't wait, turning and running as fast as they can. They can hear Skud behind them. They're halfway back to the farmhouse before Ziggs even remembers to turn their flashlight back on.

Once they break through the trees, the pair both drop to the dewy grass, panting heavily.

The moon shines down on them as they attempt to catch their breath.

Skud speaks first. “What… the ever loving fuck… was that?!”

“I dunno, man,” Ziggs gasps, “That…” They shudder as the scene replays in their mind. “We gotta tell someone.”

Nodding vehemently, Skud glances back at the trees, as if expecting someone to be following them. “...what about your dad?”

“My dad is an artist, the fuck is he gonna do?” Ziggs asks.

“No, not Russ, your other dad,” Skud clarifies, “The military one.”

Ziggs considers this before shaking their head. “No. He's busy. I doubt he'd come back for this,” they say bitterly. They push themself to their feet before reaching out a hand to help Skud up. “Come on, let's get inside.”

Once they make it back inside the farmhouse, they collapse on opposite sides of the couch. “Where do we even start with this?” Ziggs asks, pulling off their beanie to run their hand back through their hair.

“... maybe the mayor?” Skud suggests slowly, “If people in town are being ritualistically sacrificed, he'd probably want to know.”

Ziggs considers this before shaking their head. “I don't think so. For all we know, he was under one of those robes. We gotta think smaller, find someone who can actually help.”

The clock on the wall ticks loudly in the silence.

“... what about your dad? Hasn't he lived in Hatchetfield all his life?” Ziggs finally questions.

Skud nods. “Yeah. Yeah we can try asking him, see what he knows.”

The next morning, Ziggs and Skud head down to the docks. The pair steps out of Ziggs’ truck, heading down to where a houseboat floats in the water.

A man with long, curly, sandy hair, not unlike Skud's, stands on the deck. His tanned skin broken up by various scars on his hands. Busy coiling a length of rope around his arm, he doesn't notice the two approaching.

“Permission to come aboard, captain?” Ziggs calls once they're close enough to be heard.

The man looks up, smiling slightly at the sight of them. “Ziggs! Scott!” He hangs up the rope as they walk across the gangway.

“Hey, Dad,” Scott replies.

Ziggs waves. “Hey, Harold. We have a couple questions.”

“Questions?” Harold raises an eyebrow, the scar running through it made more prominent by the action. “What kind of questions?”

Glancing around nervously, Skud suggests, “Let's go inside first then we'll ask.”

Frowning, Harold leads them inside to a small sitting area. Skud and Ziggs squeeze onto a small loveseat while Harold settles into an armchair. “What's going on?”

Ziggs and Skud exchange a look. “Dad.. does anyone know what happens to the Honey Queen every year?” Skud finally asks.

“She leaves town,” Harold replies with a shrug, “Everyone knows that.”

“Yeah, but do we know for sure she leaves town?” Ziggs asks, “Does anyone stay in touch with her after she leaves? Or does she just go missing?”

Harold laughs lightly. “People seem to go missing every day around here,” he answers, “Besides, almost all the Honey Queens have been young, single women. They probably just leave after winning to get out.”

“...what if-” Ziggs starts, stopping abruptly when Skud shakes his head before standing.

“Thanks, Dad,” he says.

Harold doesn't seem surprised by Skud suddenly wanting to leave. “Of course. Are you still coming over for dinner next week? Gabe and your Uncle Barry will be here.”

“Yeah, I'll be here.”

Ziggs follows Skud off the houseboat. “What the hell, man?” They finally ask once they're back on the dock.

“He wouldn't have believed us,” Skud says with a sigh. “We-”

“Well, if it isn't Ziggs MacNamara and Scott Swift,” Roman Murray's voice comes from behind them.

They both jump, turning to see Roman standing in front of a large boat, dressed in linen shorts and shirt.

“Uh, hey, Mr. Murray,” Skud says awkwardly. His eyes dart to the blonde woman waiting impatiently on the boat as four blonde boys run around.

“What's up?” Ziggs asks, feeling dread creep up their spine.

Roman smiles widely. “Just seeing what you two thought of the Honey Festival last night. Did you enjoy the show?”

Swallowing nervously, Ziggs starts, “Yeah, the pageant was gr-”

“I'm not talking about the pageant.” Roman's eyes seem to glint as he takes a step towards them. “Who have you told?”

“N-no one,” Skud manages to get out, reaching blindly for Ziggs’ hand to give it a squeeze.

“Let's keep it that way, shall we?” Roman's sharp grin looks more like a predator baring its teeth.

One of the boys from the boat calls, “Grandpa, hurry up!”

“Coming, Trent.” Roman turns.

A sudden burst of courage fills Ziggs' chest. “We'll stop you.” They squeeze Skud's hand back.

“Stop me?” Roman turns back, shaking his head. “By all means, stop me. But you'll never be able to stop Nibblenephim.”

Without another word, he heads up to the boat.

Skud jerks Ziggs’ towards the truck, glancing back anxiously. “What the hell, Ziggy?”

“I-” Ziggs shakes their head, suddenly aware of how fast their heart is beating. “I don't know.”

Once they're back in the truck, they watch the boat Roman is on sail away from the docks. “How does he know your name?” Ziggs finally asks.

“My dad is part of the Hatchetfield Boating Society,” Skud explains, “I've seen Roman Murray at their events. His daughter is the president.” He glances at Ziggs. “How did he know your name?”

Ziggs racks their brain for an answer. “I-I don't know,” they admit, “Maybe something with Pops working at the school? I think he's a donor or a school board member or something?”

“Yeah, maybe.”

An uneasy silence falls over them. They watch until the boat fades from view, too far out in the lake to be seen from shore.

“I need to smoke,” Ziggs mutters before cranking up the truck.

When they arrive at the farmhouse, there's another car parked beside Skud's.

“Looks like Perky's home,” Skud comments as they climb out of the truck.

“Perfect! She'll believe us!”

Ziggs races up the porch steps, Skud close behind them.

Inside, Emma Perkins and her boyfriend, Paul Matthews, sit on the couch. A movie plays on the TV, not that Ziggs cares. They stand in front of the TV.

“Ziggs, can you move?” Emma asks as she pauses the film. “We were watching something.”

“And now you're going to listen to me,” Ziggs says urgently.

Emma blinks, surprised at this tone from her farmhand.

“So you know last night was the Honey Festival. Skud and I went to the Honey Queen Pageant-”

Paul interrupts, “Oh yeah. My coworker Charlotte won. Well, ex coworker. She sent in her resignation after she won. We didn't go to the pageant though. People singing and dancing-”

“Makes you uncomfortable, I know, I've heard a million times,” Ziggs snaps. They fidget anxiously.

Emma sits up straighter, “Ziggy, what the hell is wrong with you?” She demands, “Are you sober right now? Do you need to smoke?”

“Yes and yes, but this is more important!”

Skud rests a hand on Ziggs' shoulder in an attempt to soothe them. “We saw what happens to the Honey Queen.”

Paul and Emma share a look. “What do you mean? She leaves town. She always does,” Paul responds.

“No, she doesn't! She gets eaten by some fucking monster mouth made of dead pigs!” Ziggs exclaims, flashes of the night before running through their mind.

Silence as their outburst hangs in the air.

“...Ziggy,” Emma starts slowly, “What have you been lacing your blunts with?”

“I- nothing!” Ziggs practically shouts, “I know what I saw!”

Emma frowns. “Really? Cause it sounds like you were doing ‘shrooms or smoking salvia.”

Next to her, Paul shifts. “Yeah. That seems more likely than whatever the hell you just said,” he agrees.

“I- forget it!” Ziggs throws their hands up in frustration before storming back out of the farmhouse, Skud right behind them.

Ziggs jerks open the door of the truck before climbing in. Skud slides into the passenger seat. He stays quiet as Ziggs starts up the truck once more.

They drive around Hatchetfield in silence for several minutes. They pass by the high school before entering a small neighborhood.

Out in front of one of the houses stands a small sign that reads yard sale. Tables littered with 80s memorabilia fill the yard.

Skud points to it. “Should we stop?”

“Yeah, why not?” Ziggs huffs as they pull the truck over to park by the curb.

As they climb out of the truck, a familiar voice calls their names. They both look to see a familiar man with dark curls and warm hazel eyes.

“Hey, Duke,” Ziggs greets as Skud nods. They look around at the displays. “Finally get tired of the retro?”

Duke gives a sad smile. “It's not mine. I'm selling it for a friend who sadly passed away.” He gestures to the items. “Take a look around, see if anything catches your eye.”

Another potential customer comes up to Duke, holding a bright purple leather jacket.

Ziggs doesn't wait to hear the offer the person makes, choosing instead to follow Skud through the maze of tables.

“Whoever Duke's friend was really seemed to like the 80s,” Skud comments.

“Yeah,” Ziggs replies vaguely, their mind far from the yard sale. Their eyes land on a table covered with candles and crystals. They frown slightly as they approach the table.

Amongst the candles and crystals, there's a rectangular something wrapped in a red cloth.

Without thinking, Ziggs picks it up, pulling back the cloth to reveal a black book with some unfamiliar symbol on the cover.

“A book?” Skud asks, raising an eyebrow.

Nodding, Ziggs flips it open to show a map of Hatchetfield. They frown as they notice certain places marked by stars. “Look at this,” they say as they hold the book out for Skud to examine.

Skud takes the book, examining the map. “That's the Starlight Theater,” he says, pointing to one of the stars. “Then Lakeside Mall… CCRP… Hatchetfield High… and the old Waylon place.”

“What do all those places have in common?” Ziggs wonders as they take the book back. They flip a few pages in, eyes widening as they catch sight of a certain word. “Isn't that the name Roman Murray said?” They ask urgently, showing the book to Skud once more.

Skud's bright blue eyes widen. “Yeah… yeah I think it is.”

The book closes as Ziggs quickly wraps it back in its cloth. “We need this book. You got any cash on you?”

“Uhh…” Skud pats his pockets before pulling out his wallet. He fishes out a five dollar bill. “Think this will work?”

“Worth a shot.” Ziggs takes the money from him before heading back to Duke. “Hey, any chance we can get this book for five?” They ask, holding up the book as they offer the money.

Duke frowns slightly, as if trying to remember something. The moment passes and he shrugs. “Sure.” He takes the bill. “Anything else?”

“Nope, that's it. Thanks, Duke!” Ziggs calls, already heading back to the truck.

Skud waves before jogging to catch up with Ziggs.

Once they're in the truck, Ziggs passes the book to Skud before they begin to drive. “What is that thing?” They ask, “Some kind of spell book?”

“I dunno,” Skud says nervously. He opens the book, flipping through the pages slowly. He frowns as he scans the words on the page. “It looks like it though.”

Ziggs’ thumbs tap against the steering wheel as they come to a stop at a red light. “You think this is how we find out about what happened?”

The book shakes slightly as Skud's hands tremble. “Do we want to know that bad?”

“Dude, looking into this whole thing was your idea!” Ziggs reminds him.

“Yeah, I know! But like…” Skud swallows thickly as the book flips shut once more. “This is big. Bigger than us, bigger than this whole town.” His eyes dart to Ziggs. “Are you sure we shouldn't get your dad involved?”

The light turns green. Ziggs starts driving again. “I already told you, he's probably too busy to deal with this,” they snap a little harsher than they mean to. “We have to figure this out ourselves.”

“Alright, alright.” Skud stares down at the cover of the tome. “First we gotta figure out exactly what that means.”

“I think it means stopping Nibb- you know,” Ziggs answers, “Maybe that book has a way we can do that.”

Reluctantly, Skud opens the book once more, turning the pages slowly. “What if we could talk to that thing?” He asks, pausing on a certain page. “This one is called ‘Holding Court with the Void.’ That sounds promising.”

Hands tightening on the wheel, Ziggs asks, “Okay, how do we do it?”

“Looks like we need a Black Altar,” Skud reads from the page. Paper rustles as he flips back to the map. “That must be these places marked on the map.”

“Remind me what they are again,” Ziggs requests.

Nodding, Skud's eyes scan the map. “Lakeside Mall… CCRP… Hatchetfield High… the Starlight Theater… and the old Waylon place.”

“Well, we're not going to the old Waylon place,” Ziggs says with a shudder. “I think the mall is our best bet.”

“Yeah. Easiest to get into, for sure,” Skud agrees before flipping the book closed.

Silence fills the cab of the truck as they make their way to Lakeside Mall. Ziggs feels like they can't breathe. Their hands grip the steering wheel so tightly their knuckles turn white.

Once the truck comes to a stop in the parking lot, Ziggs lets out a breath they didn't realize they were holding.

In the passenger seat, Skud looks pale. “We really doing this?”

“Yeah, we are,” Ziggs confirms before opening their door.

They cross the parking lot, Skud close behind them.

When the pair enter the mall, Ziggs frowns. “Where are we going to do this?” They ask quietly as they look around at all the shoppers milling about.

“I dunno,” Skud answers. “Maybe we just walk around and we'll find a place?”

“Sounds good.”

After about ten minutes of trekking through the mall, Ziggs stops, grabbing Skud's arm to jerk him to a halt as well. “What about the Cineplex?”

Skud's eyes dart to the entrance of the theater. “Think that's still considered part of the mall?”

“One way to find out.”

The teenager at the ticket booth doesn't notice them approaching. Behind his glasses, his eyes flutter shut as he leans against the counter, bored.

Ziggs crouches, sneaking past the booth with Skud close behind.

Once they make it into the lobby of the theater, they straighten up again. “So we just pick a theater?” Skud asks as they slip past the empty concession stand.

“Yeah, why not?” Ziggs walks through a large door labeled with a 1, trying to ignore the way their heart hammers in their chest.

The silver screen looms large above them as they enter the theater. Ziggs looks over all the empty seats. “Okay, find that spell.”

“Uh…” Skud flips the book open, pages rustling as he searches for the spell once more. “Here we go: Holding Court with the Void.”

Ziggs leans in, meeting Skud's eyes. “Ready?” They wait for an affirmative nod before they begin to speak. “We invoke the names…”

Shakily, Skud's voice joins theirs, “Pokotho…”

Whispers seem to seep out of the speakers, only getting louder with the next name.

“...Bliklotep… T'noy Karaxis…”

Were the lights that shade of yellow when they entered the theater? Ziggs can't remember.

The next name they only know how to pronounce because they heard Roman Murray say it.

“...Nibblenephim…”

Pink light bathes the pair. Ziggs hears Skud take a sharp breath next to them. Their own voice cracks as they say the last name.

“...Wigogg Y'wrath.”

The lights turn green for the briefest second before the room plunges into darkness. Ziggs grabs Skud's arm, squeezing tightly.

“Did it work?” Skud whispers.

“Hello, friendy-wends.”

The lights flicker back to life, revealing five figures lounging in different spots of the theater. Ziggs and Skud stumble back together in shock, their backs hitting the wall.

“How boring,” one of the figures, dressed in a yellow and orange hoodie and orange cargo pants, with messy yellow hair, says as it fidgets with a yellow cube in its hands. It has its feet propped up on the seat in front of it, ignoring the pair.

“Now, now, Tinky,” the figure wearing what appears to be a green American Eagle button down with the sleeves rolled up and the collar popped scolds. “We don't know what our paly-wals here want yet.”

Ziggs can hear Skud gulp.

The sound attracts the green figure. He smiles wide, his teeth appearing razor sharp. He smooths back his perfectly styled dark green hair.

“Never thought I'd see the day,” The figure in a purple sundress with matching purple sunglasses giggles. The figure holds up a cell phone, as if taking a selfie.

“I know,” a figure in a blue beret and leather jacket responds.

“Yes, yes, Johnny’s kid summoning us is very funny,” the green figure says with an amused chuckle.

At the sound of their dad's name, Ziggs swallows. Their eyes dart from figure to figure before landing on the only one who hasn't spoken yet.

The pink beanie on the figure’s head has been pulled down so Ziggs can't see its eyes. Instead, all they can see is a wide, pink mouth that stretches into a hideous smile.

Ziggs’ heart plummets to their stomach. “It was you.”

“Yum yum,” comes the reply, followed by a biting motion in Ziggs’ direction.

“Yes, you saw Nibbly's sacrifice,” the green figure speaks, its emerald eyes glinting.

Ziggs finally finds their voice. “Yeah, what the fuck, man?”

The figures erupt into a chorus of giggles at the response.

“Is that why you've called us here, Ziggy?” The green figure inquires. Its long fingers wiggle as it crosses its arms.

“How-” Ziggs starts, only to be interrupted.

“Oh, we know all about yours and Scotty’s noble quest to try to find out what happens to the Honey Queen,” the green figure chuckles, “I commend you for coming this far for answers.”

Skud speaks, his voice shaky. “How do we make it stop?”

Manical laughter echoes off the walls of the theater. “Stop? It won't stop,” Nibbly answers.

“Indeed,” the green figure agrees, turning those bright green eyes back on the pair. “If Nibbly doesn't get his sacrifice, he'll consume the whole world. The Honey Queen is doing a service, really. Sacrificing herself to keep the world safe.”

“But she doesn't know she's going to be sacrificed if she wins!” Ziggs argues as they squeeze Skud's arm tighter.

The figure in green shrugs. “So what? You can't stop it, Ziggy. Not unless you want the end of the world on your hands.” It cracks a wide smile. “And I don't think you want that.”

The lights go out once more. When they come back on, Ziggs and Skud are alone in the theater.

That evening, Ziggs and Skud sit on the couch in the farmhouse. The rays of the setting sun filter in through the open windows.

They've been there for hours, silently passing joints back and forth until they've been smoked down to roaches.

Finally, Skud speaks, his voice cracking slightly, “So what do we do now? How do we, like, deal with knowing this happens every year?”

“I say we just forget,” Ziggs answers. “Like your dad said, people go missing in Hatchetfield every day. The Honey Queen is just another one of them.”

“Yeah, but those… Those things we summoned-”

Ziggs cuts him off. “Don't let it eat at you, man.” They reach for the pack of rolling papers on the coffee table, swearing when they find it empty.

Their eyes drift to the book. They reach for it, opening it and tearing out a page.

“What are you doing?” Skud asks, blue eyes filled with fear.

“The paper is thin enough to use for rolling,” Ziggs answers with a shrug as they begin ripping the paper into smaller sheets.

“Do you think that's a good idea?” Skud questions nervously.

Rolling their eyes, Ziggs reaching into a plastic bag to pull out some weed so they can roll the joint. “You're being paranoid, Skud. What's the worst that could happen?”

#hatchetfield universe #nightmare time #ziggs #skud #hatchetfield bang #some drug use #some alcohol use #this was a lot of fun to write #i hope you enjoy

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