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badwolf-in-the-impala · 4 years ago

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~Whiskey Lullaby~

~Chapter 11~

Image credit: Myself @badwolf-in-the-impala. None of the images are mine, only the editing.

Previous Chapters: ((Part 1 - Part 2 - Part 3 - Part 4 - Part 5 - Part 6 - Part 7 - Part 8 - Part 9 - Part 10))

Rating: Mature/18+

Warnings: Alcohol and drug use/abuse, violence, suggested physical/sexual abuse, kidnapping, sexual content, angst...So much angst.

Chapter warnings: Language, smoking, someone gets punched in the face and a whole lotta feels.

Word count: 4,264

A/N: I’m a shitty person when it comes to posting, I’m sorry...I also forget this chapter even existed. Oops. x_x Also huge shoutout to @jacksonroseroth who helped in the making of this chapter and always comes to my recue when I get stuck writing! ^-^

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Once they were sure Tawni had left the room, Tig gave Teagan one last hug before jetting off, having gotten a text to meet the guys in the chapel. Teagan bit back her tears, having enough with crying for the day as she sat down in the chair beside Chibs’ bed. The steady beeping of the EKG machine drummed in her head as she sat there in silence. He wasn’t out of the woods, but he wasn’t dead. Her only regret was he hadn’t woken up yet so he could talk to her. Teagan just wanted to hear his voice right now, more than anything.

“God...I’ve really fucked it up this time.” She gave a bitter laugh as she shook her head, leaning her elbows forward onto the edge of the bed as she cradled her head in her hands. “I feel like this is all my fault, and the two people I trust and care about most? Well, Tawni hates me; And you?”

Teagan let out a long sigh as she ran a hand through her dark hair, looking up to study a very unconscious Chibs. His head bandaged and face scraped in places from where he hit the ground during the explosion. He looked so broken and helpless lying in a hospital bed compared to his usual tough exterior that everyone saw.

“Well -- You almost died.” She finally whispered, catching a stray tear with the back of her sleeve. “Shit, you still could. Please don’t.” Teagan choked out a sob as she took his hand gently, her voice going soft as she spoke to him. The fact that he likely couldn’t hear her briefly crossed her mind as she chewed her lower lip anxiously, but she continued anyway.

“There’s so much I need to tell you still...Things I should’ve told you already, probably, if I wasn’t so shit at talking about my feelings.” Teagan admitted guiltily. “Things I’m scared to admit because I’ve been here before, and I fucking swore to myself; I fucking swore! That I wouldn’t go down this road again. But alas, here I am. God I’m an idiot.”

Things fell silent again for a little while, the steady beeping of the EKG machine being the only noise to fill the room once more. Teagan not knowing how to continue on, not that it mattered anyway. Chibs was unconscious and he would likely remain that way for quite a while. But the bigger question that had been weighing heavily on her mind -- Especially following her blow up with Tawni -- was not so much her own feelings, but his. It wasn’t something she had really even considered bringing up yet, what with everything that had been going on. But now? Now she wondered.

Just what exactly was it that he saw he saw in her? I mean sure, it wasn’t like things were really that serious between them, but they were serious enough that he cared for her well being. Her safety even. He cared enough to help her put herself back together every time she fell apart, even though he barely knew anything about her. Save for the story that had been pieced together all those years ago when she left Charming. The story that everyone knew so well. The story, that was only half truth.

Teagan could feel the tears beginning to prick behind her eyes again, forcing herself to draw in a few deep breaths as she tightened her grip on Chibs’ hand, trying her best to ground her emotions again. But her voice still faltered as she spoke aloud the question she wasn’t certain would ever be answered.

“What is it exactly that you see in me?” Tegan whispered. Her brows pulled tightly together in confusion as she ran a thumb carefully across his scared cheek and down his jawline before allowing her hand to fall away. Before Teagan could say anything else, the door swung open, making her jump. She quickly pulled her hand away and wiped her face as she stood. “Sorry, Doc. I just wanted to-”

As Teagan turned, expecting Tara to be standing in the doorway, she, instead, came face to face with an older, darker skinned woman with black hair that had begun to salt and pepper, holding onto the bag slung over her shoulder with a hip popped, hand propped on it, with a posh and annoyed look on her face.

“Oh. Um, sorry. I thought you were--Who are you?” Teagan asked, slightly confused. She’d never seen this woman around the clubhouse before and Chibs never mentioned any woman that even came close to what she looked like.

“I think the question here would be who the hell are you?” She asked, a thick Irish accent coming through. Teagan’s eyes shrunk back.

Oh, God, not another one. Teagan thought. She’d never met Tawni’s mother and she hoped to God this wasn’t her. Granted Tawni was as pale as the day was long, but stranger things have happened. Taken aback by the woman, Teagan blinked and cleared her throat before she said, “Um, I’m-I’m Teagan?”

The woman pursed her lips and gave a soft ‘Mhm’ as she rounded the bed and set her bag down. Tossing her dark mane over her shoulder, she turned back to Teagan and said, “And would ye mind tellin’ me why yeh’re so broken and upset over m’husband’s accident? And why you were touchin’ him like that?”

It took everything Teagan had to not let her mouth drop open in shock and start yelling. Chibs never once mentioned he had a wife. Not when he held her that first night, not when she spent multiple nights in his bed. He didn't even bother to tell her when they were mere articles of clothing away from doing the do.

‘Alright…That puts a new spin on shit.’ Teagan thought, not trusting herself enough to say anything out loud just yet. Teagan opened her mouth to explain, but the woman cut her off with a wave of her hand and said, “No. Don’t tell me. I don’ need ta’hear any lies out’o a Crow Eaters mouth.”

“Excuse me?!” Teagan shrieked. That one label sent her over the edge. She did her share of whoring around when she was younger, but goddamnit! She was the sister of one of the members! She was as far from a Crow Eater as you could get without being an Old Lady! “Listen, who the hell do you think you are?! You don’t know me!”

“Oh, sure, please!” The woman shouted back. “I know Filip has his fun wit’ you American girls. But never once has one o’them shown their face when I’m around!”

Teagan was about to channel Tawni and reach across Chibs’ bed for a right hook to her face, when a nurse hurried in through the open door.

“What is going on? ICU is for immediate family only!” She said. Teagan opened her mouth to lie and say she was family, but the Irish woman beat her to it with, “I’m his wife.”

The nurse gave her a sweet smile and nodded before turning to Teagan and saying, “Miss Trager, you need to leave. Dr. Knowles is looking for you anyway.”

Teagan huffed at the nurse, shooting daggers at the woman before turning on her heel and marching out of the room.

Gemma had lost track of Teagan after reprimanding Jax and just prayed that Teagan didn't end up running back into Tawni. She really didn't need to deal with an angry Irish girl and a Trager, at least not at the same time. The last thing they needed was an all out brawl between a couple of hot headed biker chicks on hospital grounds. But after checking around with a few of the guys, she confirmed that Tawni had indeed gone back to the Clubhouse. And judging from the commotion coming from down the hall nearest Chibs’ room, Gemma could only guess that’s where Teagan had ended up.

“Shit.” Gemma muttered under her breath as she quickened her pace as she moved towards whatever in the hell was going on; Stepping back just in time as Teagan blew around the corner and passed her, Tara hot on her heels trying her best to stop her.

“I’m serious, Teagan, you really need to stay overnight for observation! You have a concussion for Christ sake, just let me help!” Tara tried to reason.

“I don’t fucking need anymore help!” Teagan stopped so suddenly that Tara almost smacked right into her. Taking a quick step back with a wide eyed expression as Teagan rounded on her like a viper about to strike its prey.

“Hey! Knock it the hell off!” Gemma managed to butt in between the two, putting a hand to Teagan’s chest as she pushed her back. “This isn’t the goddamn WWE. Now why don’t you calm down and tell me what the hell is going on?”

“He has a fuckin’ wife!” Teagan all but screeched before storming off down the hall towards the exit to the stairs. ‘Explains a lot.’ Gemma thought to herself, pinching the bridge of her nose as she turned to face Tara. “I got it from here, Doc.”

“Good luck.” Tara called after her as Gemma took off after Teagan, catching her on the stairs.

“Wanna slow down before I have a fucking heart attack?” Gemma shouted as she struggled to catch up in hopes of talking Teagan out of whatever in the hell she was about to do.

“Fuck off, Gem!” Teagan shouted back as she hit the last flight of stairs and made her break for the door. Gemma caught her by the arm just as she was stepping outside. “Seriously, Gem, I don’t want to fucking hear it.”

“And what is it exactly you think I’m gonna say?” Gemma shot back, hands flying to her hips as she gave Teagan an irritated and disapproving look.

“I don’t fucking know!?” Teagan yelled as she fished around in her pockets angrily for her pack of smokes, struggling to light one as her hands trembled from all the emotions coursing through her. So angry at this point she could hardly see straight. “I told you so? You’re a fucking idiot? Stay away and stop getting involved with the fucking Club members?!”

Teagan gave a brief pause as she took a long drag off of her cigarette, running a hand aggressively through her dark hair as she exhaled. “Jesus, fuck; Why didn’t you tell me he had a fucking wife?!” She rounded on Gemma, who stood still as a statue, waiting for her moment to interject.

“Maybe ‘cause it ain’t my place, for starters.” Gemma snapped. “And before you go jumping on that fuckin’ high horse of yours, maybe take a step back and think? It’s not like he fuckin’ knows shit about your own past, aside from the bullshit story everyone else knows. So why would he feel obligated to tell you anything about his? Especially when you two aren’t even exclusive. I mean Jesus, Teag, have you two even talked about your feelings?”

“No…” Teagan admitted reluctantly, taking another drag off the cigarette burning between her fingers as she turned her back. Gemma had a point, even if Teagan didn’t want to admit it. But that didn’t change the fact she felt lied to. Betrayed even. Even if Chibs was never hers to begin with, it didn’t change the fact that he had kept this very important bit of information from her.

“Then why should it matter?” Gemma stated. “His business is his business, nobody else’s!”

“He’s fuckin’ married, Gem!” Teagan shouted as she whirled around, seething again. “I don’t give two fucking shits why, or what his reasonings for not telling me are, that’s not something you just keep from the person you’re getting involved with!”

“Jesus Christ…” Gemma gave a frustrated sigh as she closed her eyes, drawing in a deep breath as she pinched the bridge of her nose. “Teage--”

“NO, Gemma, I’m done. I’m.Fucking.Done.” Teagan cut her off before taking one last drag, flicking the cigarette butt to the sidewalk as she began looking around for a way back to the Clubhouse. Panic setting in as she realized everyone had gone home except for Gemma.

“Look, Sweetheart, I know you’re upset, and don’t get me wrong, you have every right to be--But this ain’t the time.”

“Seriously, just save it! OK?” Teagan snapped, closing her eyes as she rubbed at her temples. A sudden wave of dizziness hitting her out of nowhere.

“You need to calm down…Let’s just go back inside for a bit till you cool off.” Gemma stated firmly as she moved to take Teagan by the arm and lead her back inside. Gritting her teeth as Teagan pushed her way.

“I’m fine...Gem…” Teagan shot back as she pulled away, reaching a hand out to steady herself against the pillar in front of her as the edges of her vision started to blur. But by then, it was already too late. Her hand missed the pillar entirely and her vision quickly went black as she fell to the ground, Gemma managing to grab her before her head hit the concrete.

“Shit…” Gemma muttered as she laid Teagan carefully on the sidewalk before rushing back inside the hospital to grab a nurse.

The slow and steady beeping filled her ears as Teagan came to, finally hooked up to monitors and IVs. She let out a soft groan as the EKG beeps began to pound against her skull. Before she could have any other reaction, from the corner, almost making her jump and fall out of bed, she heard Gemma say, “Oh, good. You’re not dead.”

“Jesus Fuck, Gemma!” Teagan shouted, the EKG beeping wildly for a moment or two before the steady pace continued. Teagan sighed and tried to move but found it rather painful with needles sticking out of her arms. She sighed and shifted, trying to get a better look at her surroundings. “Why am I still here?”

Gemma slapped down the magazine in her hand and crossed her legs. “Because you almost took a fuckin’ cement nap if I hadn’t caught you, Teagan Marie.” She said. Teagan let out another groan.

“Oh, for fuck’s sake, Gemma! Not the middle name shit! I got that enough growing up!” She said. Gemma uncrossed her legs and stood, stalking over to her bed.

“I don’t give a shit what you got growing up, missy.” Gemma said. “You’ve done enough damage, you don’t need any more in your life. You don’t want me to treat you like you did growing up? Then fuckin’ grow up!”

Gemma walked away from the bed and grabbed her purse from the table next to her chair and made for the door. With her emotions running high, probably from the drugs Tara put her on, Teagan fought her tears, though they came through as she said, “Wait...Gem. Please don’t leave me alone…”

Gemma stopped and turned to her. Teagan couldn’t stop the tears seeping from the corners of her eyes as she struggled not to completely break down and sob. Gemma sighed and set her bag back down, going back over to her and taking her hand.

“Teagan...This is serious shit we’re in right now. And if you’re gonna stick around, you’ll be involved. Do you really think it’s a good idea to get involved with Chibs? Let alone any member right now?” Gemma asked, lowering her voice to a softer tone. Teagan sighed, looking away from Gemma, angry with herself for crying again.

“I don’t know, Gem. It-It’s different this time. With Chibs.” She said. “He doesn’t treat me like I’m a no good degenerate like everyone else does.”

“Oh, baby.” Gemma said with a soft chuckle. “That’s not true; Jax doesn’t. Tawni never did. Clay doesn’t. I don't.”

Teagan gave her a look that made Gemma smirk and add, “Alright...Not all the time. But still, Teagan, I mean…”

“Gemma.” Teagan took a breath and said, “I think I might be in love with him.”

Gemma blinked, shocked, and said, “Are-Are you serious? Jesus, Teage, you’ve known him for like, a month.”

Teagan rolled her eyes and sighed. “Fuck. Gemma. I’m trying to be fucking happy for once in my life! Genuinely happy! And he’s fucking married!” Teagan said.

“Honey. That’s never stopped him before. Jimmy O’Phelan stole Fiona from Chibs before he exiled him from Ireland. Sure he still loves her, but...Well, he has needs too. He’s had relationships in the past. It doesn’t bother him. Why should it bother you?” Gemma asked.

“Maybe because I don’t want to be called a fucking Crow Eater by that bitch again?” Teagan hissed, her anger getting the better of her and making the EKG go off again. Gemma sighed and said, “Alright, honey, you need to calm down. If you want the Doc to clear you to leave, you’ve gotta get that anger under control.”

Teagan sighed and nodded, closing her eyes and taking a few deep breaths. Good God, did she want to get out of this fucking hospital. She cleared her throat and said, “Um, is-is he awake?”

“Teagan…” Gemma sighed.

“Gem, I just want to make sure he’s okay. Tell him I’m sorry.” She said.

“For what?” Gemma asked. Teagan opened her mouth to respond, but stopped when she realized she wasn’t quite sure.

“I-I-” Gemma stopped her and said, “Look. Before you do anything, I want you cleared by the doc. Make sure everything is working right up there. You’ve taken a few punches already and we don’t need you passing out on us again.”

“Yeah. Yeah. Alright. But can we make it quick? I want to fucking shower too.” Teagan said. Gemma chuckled and gave Teagan a kiss on her cheek before she left the room to flag down Tara.

After a lengthy talk about making sure she was monitored for the next few days, Tara finally cleared her to leave. Teagan couldn’t change fast enough. Gemma had run back to the clubhouse and packed her a small bag of new clothes. Once she changed and the papers were signed, Gemma walked Teagan up to Chibs’ floor and stopped her.

“Just give me a minute, Teagan, okay?” Gemma said, sitting the girl down in a nearby chair before sidestepping to the door. With her hand on the door knob, she stopped when she saw Fiona sitting in the chair, reading a magazine.

‘Oh, shit.’ She thought as she slowly opened the door and walked in. Fiona glanced up as the door opened as surprised to see Gemma as Gemma was to see her. With a sigh and uncrossing her legs, Fiona put down her magazine and stood. Gemma went to the counter to set down her bag as she said, “You’re a long way from home, sweetheart.”

“Yes. I am.” Fiona said, rather matter of factly. Gemma braced a hand on the counter, the other on her hip and asked, plainly, “Why?”

“I was worried about him.” Fiona said, almost a hint of offence in her voice. Gemma looked unconvinced as she said, “Could’ve sent flowers.”

Fiona’s face was full of annoyance at this point, uphased at how much Gemma hadn’t changed over the years. With an equal annoyance in her voice, she said, “Just needed to see him, Gemma.”

Gemma glanced at Chibs, making sure he wasn’t awake and listening as she crossed in front of Fiona and said, “We are in a shit storm here. The last thing we need is you turning him inside out.”

Teagan stayed out of view from the window on the door, ear pressed to it, listening. She didn't know what Gemma meant by ‘turning him inside out’, but she didn't need an interpreter for it, and booked it, swiping her bag from the chair and beelining for the elevator. Clearly, this Fiona woman had an effect on Chibs and, after all, she was his fucking wife. She didn't want to ruin Chibs’ relationship with her and had her mind made up, even before she hijacked Tig’s bike, parked with the others. She hotwired the Harley, strapped on Tig’s helmet and took off as the club came running back outside, ready to deal a beat down, but they were all caught off guard to see Teagan as the thief.

“Hey! Teagan-!” Tig called in disbelief. He sighed and turned to his crew, staring at them for a moment before he said, “Unbelievable.”

Teagan lit into the Clubhouse like the place was on fire. Ignoring Piney’s attempts to slow her down and tell him what the hell was going on as she passed by the bar and made her way down the hall to the dorms; Throwing the door to her room open. The sound of it slamming against the wall sending an echo loud enough down the hallway that it could’ve woke people up in the next County over.

Grabbing her pack from the closet she quickly began to stuff in the essentials. Making sure to do so quickly as she knew at least a few of the guys would be on their way back and pulling in soon. Tig being among them, given she had just stolen his pride and joy. So the sooner she got out of there, the better. Besides, the last thing she wanted was anyone trying to stop her…

Her mind was made up...She was done. Charming had been her last chance at a safe haven, but now that had been shattered into a million pieces and all because she let her feelings get in the way. Just like she always did. Funny she had actually believed that things had actually turned in her favor for once, and that maybe she finally had a shot at real happiness despite the shitstorm that had been chasing her all her life. But she couldn’t have been more wrong.

“What in the fuck are you doing?” Tawni grumbled crankily from the doorway of Teagan’s room, still half asleep; Teagan turning and narrowing her gaze.

“Leaving.” Teagan snapped as she tugged the zipper on her pack shut and threw it over her shoulder before stalking out of the room. Shoulder checking Tawni on the way out when she didn’t move.

“Seriously?!” Tawni huffed as she turned and started after Teagan. “You’re gonna be a bitch this fucking early?!”

“I’m done. Gone. Not fucking coming back. You should be fucking happy!” Teagan rounded on Tawni, causing her to take a step back as she stared at Teagan a little shocked as those few that remained in the Clubhouse fell silent. “Can’t fuck your Uncle if I’m not around anymore, right? Because as if things weren’t shitty enough -- To add insult to injury, my best fucking friend--Sorry ex best friend, just assumes, that I would go behind her back in such a way--”

“Teagan--”

“Fuckin’ save it Tawn, ‘cause I don’t give a shit anymore.” Teagan cut her off before she could even start. “And to think, I actually fucking cared...I mean genuinely fucking cared, for the first time in a long time...But he’s married, so crisis averted. ” She laughed bitterly, turning on her heel as she started for the door again.

“And you’re answer to it all is to run like a fucking coward? Just like you’ve always done?!” Tawni started after Teagan again, not ready to let her go so easily. But she stopped when Teagan dropped her bag abruptly, her fist suddenly connecting with Tawni’s jaw, sending her to the floor.

“I thought you were my fucking friend.” Teagan’s voice was calm, showing in it the level of hurt she was feeling right now as she shook her head.

“C’mon, Kid, don’t do this.” Piney butted in as he got to his feet, holding his hands out as if he was trying to calm a wild animal as he approached her. Stopping when Teagan held out a hand to stop him, and picked up her bag.

“Save it.”

“What the fucking Christ, Teagan?!” Tig hollered as he came bursting through the doors of the Clubhouse, Jax and Opie close behind.

“Don’t.” Teagan snapped coldly as she pushed past her brother and out the door; yanking her arm from Opie’s grasp when he tried to grab her.

“Come on, Rave...Don’t do it like this.” Opie pleaded with a sympathetic expression as he stared down at her as she pushed past him out the door. “At least tell us what’s going on?”

“She’s fuckin’ my Goddamn Uncle, is wha’s goin’ on!” Tawni shouted as she came flying out the door in the midst of all the chaos, hellbent on finishing what had just been started.

“You know…” Teagan gave another hollow sounding laugh, turning with tears in her eyes to face Tawni who stopped when she saw her twisted expression. “I actually wish I had gotten the chance.”

Without another word she turned, crossing the lot the rest of the way to her bike, securing her pack to the sissy bar before she climbed on and pulled on her helmet. The sound of the engine roaring to life drowning out Tig’s shouts as he came running across the Teller-Morrow lot after her; Falling just short of reaching her as she pulled out of her space and hit the throttle. Leaving behind a sea of shocked and confused faces in her wake as she left it all behind.

Hellbent on never looking back.

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Lemme know what you guys think! I promise things pick up soon and get more interesting lol And if you want to be added the taglist, or removed ((it’s been a long time, I’d understand if anyone's lost interest)) just let me know. I’m actually getting ahead on chapters, so hopefully I’ll be able to start posting a little more often.

TAGLIST: @jacksonroseroth @cole-winchester @stacie-marie-bloom @journeyrose @penny4yourthot @xbreezymeadowsx @miss-nori85

#Sons of Anarchy #SOA #SAMCRO #Chibs Telford #Filip Chibs Telford #Tommy Flanagan #Sons of Anarchy Fic #SOA fanfiction #Chibs Telford x OFC #Filip Telford #Filip Telford x OFC #Fanfiction #Fanfic #Writing #original female character #Whiskey Lullaby #Megan halfway gets her life together enough to post a story update #Sorry I'm a shit person

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palestinianliberator · 7 years ago

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Story of our family’s blood curse

OKAY SO I didn’t realize how detailed this was until I actually sat down to try and write about it...but I’ll try to keep things juicy and concise.

It’s important to preface this by saying that in my village, there are three major families, or “clans”. There’s Manasrah, which my family hails from, Saramah, and Awowda. These clans supersede the immediate family units, and are incredibly unified and caring of one another.

The story starts with my grandma Mohdia and her three brothers, Musa [also known as Moses], Yousef, and Tawfik.

My grandmother spent her whole life in Palestine, very rarely leaving, while her brothers moved around the world to find work - Tawfik and Yousef moving separately to the US, and Musa moving to El Salvador where he started a family and became known as “Moses al-Arabiy” [Moses the Arab].

Yousef had 5 sons and and 4 daughters, one of his sons were Waleed and one of his grandkids was Khaled. Waleed was a good kid, working with his father and helping to support both his family, while Khaled was a gambling alcoholic who would beg friends and family for money. Yousef’s wife [who hails from the Saramah clan] had a daughter from a previous marriage who herself had a son, Mohammad. This daughter and son were not a part of their new family [my family basically], as they were loyal to her biological father of the opposing clan and remained with them. I KNOW THIS IS PROBABLY CONFUSING BUT BEAR WITH ME!

One day in the mid to late 1960s, Khaled went up to Mohammad, who was a wealthy man, and asked for money. Mohammad denied him and apparently chastised his behavior and inability to support himself. Khaled, drunk and furious at the slight, gunned Mohammad down and ran off, going into hiding.

Now my village is INCREDIBLY strict when it comes to dishing out justice, and they take family honor and alliances very seriously - when it came out that Khaled was responsible for the murder of Mohammad, our family offered up his life to make things even, knowing that he was guilty of murder and should face punishment for what he’d done. Not everyone agreed with this, but it was seen as the best way to keep things from escalating. Khaled was then executed, and after a period of mourning for both victims, things went back to normal.

Except that the mother and uncle of the family friend that was murdered weren’t satisfied. Keep in mind, my grandma’s brother/my “uncle” and my family are of the Manasrah clan, while the murdered man and his bereaved family were from the Saramah clan.

The mother, distraught at the loss of her successful and beloved son, went out into the village declaring that God had not allowed true justice to prevail, and that she would cast a blood curse on Yousef [her mother’s new husband], his family, and his entire lineage, and that she would seal it with blood so that nobody will ever forget the crime committed against her, her family, and her clan. Think of how serious and committed someone must be to go out and publicly speak of blood magic in a relatively conservative village like this - she wasn’t joking around. Not long after this, she disappeared completely.

Things remained somewhat tense, but overall okay.

Several years later, however, one of Yousef’s kids was killed under “unknown circumstances”, his body dumped in the street. The general consensus was that the family of Mohammad, the man killed previously, was responsible, but otherwise nothing solid and things eventually moved on.

In retrospect, that was the “blood” that sealed her curse.

Now switching gears and going back to Moses al-Araby, my grandma’s other brother living in Bolivia. He was involved in leftist revolutionary movements and opposed the US backed government that took over following the coup in 1964. I don’t know too many details about his life, but I hope to learn more as I reach out to family still in Bolivia in the future. Anyways, after the collapse of the organization Moses was involved in, he went into hiding.

Several years later, sometime in the mid to late 60s, Tawfiq [the last of my grandma’s brothers] travelled with his son to Bolivia to meet with Moses, not knowing ANYTHING of his involvement with leftist revolutionary groups, and not being involved in any sort of political movements himself. Tawfiq was falsely identified as Moses, and was assassinated along with his son by a hit squad. Moses used this as an opportunity to flee the country, going into hiding in the Middle East for a period, before he himself was eventually killed by Israeli forces in the late 80s.

Now back to Yousef, who in the late 70s was living in Idaho with his wife and some Waleed, where they owned a jeans and fashion store. One day, both Yousef and his 25 year old son Waleed were assassinated in a case that, to this day, remains an “unsolved murder”. The funny thing is, we know who did it, and we know where this individual currently lives.

Anyways, it was made well known that the assassination of both Yousef and Waleed was still part of the mother’s payback, and she followed through with her threat to murder her biological mother’s new husband. This entire time, however, she remained missing. She was never seen again after her initial threats of a blood curse. The building where Yousef and his son was assassinated is know known as a “haunted location”, a building in which future tenants have claimed to here voices and shouting, and where a man eventually hung himself. You can read about some of that bit here. So it’s great to know that if I ever want to visit my distant uncle, I can find his spirit in that building.

The body count at this point is 7, including the original murder and murderer.

Given this brazen attack on our family, and given that we knew the two men responsible for the murder, our clan decided to strike back. One of the two murderers was killed and his body hidden in a dessert in Las Vegas. you can read about that in the link above^. I don’t know who was responsible exactly, but it’s common knowledge that it was all in connection to the assassination of Yousef and his son.

Man there is so much more that I’m glossing over, but I’m trying to keep this from turning into a novel x_x.

There’s an ENTIRE other story about how this back and forth killing led to a feud so big that the IDF had to storm Deir Dibwan to resolve things, all sparked by two more killings tied to clan relations with this blood curse/feud.

By the end of the initial killing spree, each of my grandmother’s brothers had been murdered, with people at this point blaming the blood curse, and hoping it was the end.

Well...it wasn’t.

In the years since - two of Yousef’s sons died in car accidents, and a third was gunned down in a random attack. One of his daughters died with her family in a house fire.

One of Moses’ kids was gunned down in Bolivia under unknown circumstances.

Two of Tawfiq’s kids lost ALL of their money in different ways, leaving their families in shambles. One of his daughters committed suicide.

One of Tawfiq’s grandkids, the ~rapper~ Mally Mall [who is my cousin lol] had his house burn down, killing his pet wildcat.

Another of Tawfiq’s kids just went missing one day, and was never found.

One of Tawfiq’s grandkids also went missing, but he was eventually found in his car, which had been set on fire with him inside.

My grandma’s sister, who had been through enough shit with al-Nakba and some stuff that had happened to her due to Israeli forces, ended up losing her eye.

Then you have my immediate family & immediate aunts and uncles - I don’t want to divulge THEIR personal details here, but suffice to say......things are pretty messy. My grandma lost two of her children, and three of my aunts and uncles lost 4 children between them. My aunt had her San Francisco store burned down in an arson attack and lost a child to drowning. I came into this post fully intended to discuss some of the personal details with my family/uncles that more recently reflected manifestations of ~the curse~, but I realize now that I don’t want to share that info publicly...sorry x_x.

To this day, the curse and this entire ordeal is pretty well-known throughout the village, and two clans have since made amends. There have also been multiple “attempts” to tackle the blood curse, but.....you know, HOW do you know when one has been lifted? Especially one cast out of such malice. And sure, you can just go and blame any negative occurrence on ~a curse~, but given that the body count is well over 20, given the extreme unlikelihood that so many houses in my family have been burned down, given that my uncle’s goddamn spirit is said to still haunt the building where he was assassinated.......you know??

At this point, any negative major event that happens, we joke about as being the result of the curse~ [and those that know me..............well.. (: ]. At this point I’m going to stop typing, because holy hell this is long.....and I should probably proofread it first, but I just want to post it before I lose everything.

#Blood Curse #Personal

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happy-meo · 7 years ago

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Save Me. (Yoongi x Reader) PART 7.

“It swallowed me, this lunatic. Please save me tonight. Within this childish madness, you will save me tonight.” - [“Save Me” - BTS]

Summary: It was an unprecedented love that bloomed within the halls of your high school, until secret words were overheard, and shattered the budding romance. It changed your life forever, leading you down a path you had never thought you would be on– training to become a secret agent. You chose it to escape Yoongi and the results of how things ended between you two, but as fate would have it, that very same choice ended up leading you right back to him. Will you be able to save your clients and solve mysteries together despite your history? Will you be able to save each other? Will you able to save yourself…from yourself?

Yoongi x Reader (ft. Jin & all the other BTS members)

Secret Agent AU

Mystery, Action, Angst, & Fluff (contains some violence, mentions of murder, death, harassment, and bullying)

PARTS: Prologue | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 (Finale) | Bonus: The Letter

A/N: Sorry for not updating sooner everyone <3 Thanks for your patience xD Apparently my free weekend, ended up with an impromptu random family friend of my dad’s inviting themselves over to our house, so we have to go tour them around today (sigh). So I banged out this update x_x and I wanted to post it right away! I’ll probably be answering messages and inboxes during the long car ride. I can’t wait! I missed you all! Enjoy :)

The entire crowd reacted with a mixture of gasps and squeals.

"Um... give us a second." You chuckled nervously.

You tugged at Yoongi's hand, turning him towards you, and whispered frantically, "What do you think you're doing?"

"You can't go with him." Yoongi stated.

"Why not?"

"What if he's... you know?"

"All the more reason to go with him!" You argued.

"Absolutely not. He could take you to some secluded area and--"

"We're not doing this right now, Min Yoonji." You hissed.

"I got this. Don't worry."

"What do you --"

"We both have dates already. That's why." Yoongi turned around, displaying his brightest smile.

Surprisingly, there was a collection of disappointed "Aww's" from the crowd, to which you raised an eyebrow towards them questionably.

"Oh, I had no idea." Prez smiled warmly. "Boyfriend?"

"Um...just an old friend." You blushed, making it up as you went. "I didn't think anyone would ask me at first...so I had asked him to come along..."

"Too bad." Prez chuckled. "Definitely save a dance or two for me then."

"I'm so sorry." You handed the flowers back, a bit disheartened. But Prez wrapped his fingers around yours and nudged the flowers towards you.

"Don't be. These flowers were yours regardless of your answer. I've been wanting to give you something like this for awhile now." he smiled warmly.

You couldn't hide your giddy grin. "I love them."

Prez's stare lingered on you for a few more seconds than Yoongi liked, but he held it in because your expression of absolute happiness and gratefulness hindered him from acting selfishly. Who was he to stop your face from looking like that? All the while, he was slowly being reminded of all the things he didn't do for you. Why had you stayed with him for so long back then?

"I'll see you around, Y/N." Prez waved and the crowd dispersed with him.

You continued to play around with the flowers lovingly, while Yoongi was submerged in his own vortex of dark thoughts. You noticed his peculiar silence and looked up to catch him with his concentrated, blank expression, which always meant he was thinking too hard about something.

"Yah." You poked his forehead. "Why did you skip practice to come all the way here?"

He blinked and glanced at you in front of him. "I just...I just..."

I was jealous and selfish.

The words fell dull at the tip of his tongue.

"You were right anyway." You shrugged, buying his fake excuse for stopping you earlier. "It's probably for the best I didn't get carried away with my desire to go to a dance with a date for once."

Yoongi shut his eyes. He was supposed to have asked you back then, but you two had broken up before the dance, then you had completely disappeared from his life soon after.

"Do you not feel good?" Your hand was at his forehead. "Let's take you to Mr. Park."

Yoongi nodded, willing to use any lame reason to have all your attention on him for any amount of time.

"You really must not be feeling well. You're not making any snarky comments. Come on." You held onto his hand. "Ji-- Mr. Park wanted to talk to us anyway. This is perfect."

Yoongi clasped your hand tighter, reveling in the feeling once again. He needed to pull himself together. No good can come from his clouded mind, especially with a mission as dangerous as this one.

Just for a little while. Just for a few moments. He wanted to be Min Yoongi and Y/N. Not secret agents. Not students. Not anyone, but yourselves.

But this would have to suffice for now.

You knocked brightly on Jimin's office door, despite the sign reading "Do Not Disturb". But if you knew Jimin, he had installed cameras to monitor the outside of his office and was doing so at the moment.

"Y/N. Yoonji." He welcomed you two in fake pretense, in case anyone passed by. "Thanks for coming. How're your injuries from the incident?"

As soon as the door shut though, Jimin's demeanor turned grim. It sent shivers down your spine, and apparently Yoongi's too because he tightened his grip on your hand, pulling you closer.

"This mission is a lot more complicated and dangerous than we had anticipated." he solemnly stated.

"Why?" You were surprised your voice had come out as an audible whisper, frightened from Jimin's statement and aura alone.

"Sit." Jimin sighed as he returned behind his laptop. "I've been doing what I do best, and trying to hack for more information.

"And?" Yoongi questioned.

Jimin stared at you two intently. "There's much more at work here than we've dared to imagine. There are much more secrets that we have yet to uncover, and I have a terrible feeling that the more we know, the deeper we get into the heart of this corrupted school. And I'm afraid that it'll be too late to escape or turn back once we pass that point."

"And is that point right now?" You replied.

"Perhaps." Jimin pursed his lips. "Perhaps it is the crux or perhaps it's merely the surface."

"Then let's get on with it." Yoongi urged. "Escaping or turning back was never an option anyway, so let's ram this thing full force."

You snorted. How very much like Yoongi to say that.

Jimin nodded, "I do have to remind you two that this is probably one of the reasons why this case has been branded as one of the highest level missions given to the agency, and that our mission was never to engage but to gather intel and narrow down suspects in order to help more seasoned agents get rid of the murderer." "And I have to remind you, Park Jimin, that Y/N here never listens to a damn thing regarding rules anyway, and our break time is limited." Yoongi glanced at the clock.

"Speak for yourself." You rolled your eyes.

Jimin nodded and turned his desktop around.

" Each of the staff members has been involved in some...questionable events, which, needless to say had been removed from their backgrounds."

Your eyes glanced at Jimin, surprised. "Jin too?"

He nodded. "Details were hard to find on it, but I found records that he was involved in an assault & battery case. His family is wealthy and so were the others involved, so they were able to sweep the crime under the rug and out of their public records. As is the case with the rest of the staff members of course."

"Assault and battery...?" You mumbled.

"And the others?" Yoongi encouraged.

Jimin clicked his mouse, "I've sent this compilation to Namjoon, but figured I'd debrief you two in person then delete it completely. These masterminds are smart, and they seem to have many eyes. We can't have this lying around for the taking."

"You must think highly of this...these people." You muttered.

"I'm frightened of them, Y/N." Jimin stated as a matter-of-factly. "I don't think highly of them at all, but their skills are undeniable. To pull those intricate murders, to plan them, in such a crowded facility, and to have gotten away with it FIVE times, leaving us still running around in circles with no legitimate leads...I'm terrified of the kind of people they are and what else they're capable of."

You remained silent, and let Jimin proceed.

"The Principal has numerous connections with convicted embezzlers, who have since been put on death row. It may be possible he still has many more or has made new ones, seeing as how you two spotted him having a secret conversation after hours in the school." Jimin clicked to the next slide. "Why would that be motive? Well, the more the murders happen, for whatever the reason, the family of the victims supposedly donate more money to the school to keep things hushed. But...none of the money has been seen or used. If the network of embezzlers is in on this crime, they could be sharing the flood of cash from these wealthy families."

"But would he risk damaging the school's reputation?" You questioned.

"If he doesn't get caught, then he'll just look like a terrible principal. People will pity him rather than blame him." Yoongi responded. "Although, if this never gets out to the public, then nothing will change about this school's rep."

"Next, the Vice Principal comes from a family of soldiers who supposedly died during battle." Jimin explained.

"Supposedly?" You hummed.

"With further research, they actually returned from war, but each of them never made it home. No one knows if they're actually alive and in hiding, or if they had been murdered and never found. The army wasn't sure what to tell the family, so they just told them they died during battle."

"But how is that relevant to this?" Yoongi asked.

"Well..." Jimin stated. "...she could be the murderer since she's done it before, or she found out that the government had been hiding these deaths from her all these years, and wants revenge. What better way to get revenge than by targeting the families of government officials?"

"Did they all have family in the government?"

"Haven't gone that far into it yet." Jimin sighed. "But it's an avenue I'm looking into."

You smiled and patted Jimin's hand. "You're working hard."

He shot you a tired yet lop-sided smile. "We all are."

"So just bang out the facts. We'll be here forever if we keep debating each one." Yoongi hurried.

"Right." Jimin nodded. "Some of them have no possible motive or connection just yet, but I kept it on there because they were involved in or witnessed deaths in peculiar ways. But just seeing these hidden backgrounds give me the shivers when I'm around them now."

"We need to be extra careful not to make it obvious we think any differently of them after this." Yoongi glanced at you two seriously.

"We know." You urged Jimin to continue.

"The Secretary was involved in a peaceful protest, which ended up in an all-out shooting, and she was one of the few people who survived. As you've mentioned to me before, the Counselor's brother was mutilated in a very bad gang fight, and his parents also died suddenly when they were younger. The Nurse, which we've heard rumors about, had actually cheated on the Gym Teacher, while he was cheating on his own wife with her. She had a lot of affairs with people of power in the past. She was always playing a dangerous game, and who knows if that was what came around to bite her in the end. The Science Teacher, as mentioned by the Secretary, had lost a daughter recently. But unrelatedly, he used to work at a human experimenting research facility --"

"A what?" You blinked.

"Human experimenting research facility..." Jimin repeated.

"As in...experimenting on humans?"

Jimin nodded.

"Like...ethically?"

"It wasn't publicized, and it was disbanded. But nonetheless, he participated in some questionable studies and research. And who knows if they carried it out following appropriate guidelines." Jimin frowned.

You shivered and pulled your blazer around you. You had always thought the Science Teacher was a decent man, but this just terrified you, the duality of reality and appearances.

Yoongi nodded, urging Jimin to move forward, keeping his eye on the clock.

"The English Teacher came from abroad after being kicked out of her family's house when she was old enough, because she was an illegitimate child. She still strongly sought out being the heir of the corporation, but then they disowned her so she couldn't even say she was part of the family. We're unsure why she was so intent on being the heir. Money may have been a motivation or maybe it was the power. We're not really sure.

But then she eventually found her real mother who married into an even richer family and they welcomed her in. Nonetheless, she has a constant need to feel wanted and attractive. Probably stemming from her childhood trauma of abandonment. It may be that the killings are based off those who threatened her current status or who denied or rejected it.

Possibly a stretch, but why I bring this whole background up is because the Music Teacher lived in the same exact places the English teacher did. It was incredibly eerie to the point that I have a bad feeling that he's been following and stalking her all these years. During the staff party, I could definitely see his immense obsession with her. Although she seems unaware that he's been with her for years now..."

"That is extremely creepy." You frowned. "But if he's so obsessed with her...why would that be related to the murders?"

"It's not. But I couldn't just overlook it." Jimin sighed. "There are two or more accomplices in this case, and it seems the Music Teacher can be easily swayed if someone were to bait him with the English Teacher or if the English Teacher asked for favors herself."

"Good point..." You hummed.

"The Librarian was rumored to have had a miscarriage last year as you said the Secretary mentioned."Jimin moved to the next slide. "It turns out that she actually had gotten an abortion and lied about it."

"What? Why would she?" You questioned.

"My question exactly, so I dug further back and found that she had a child when she was younger, but couldn't take care of it. She abandoned the child years ago and even went so far as to try to kill it. No one knows what exactly happened to the child, but it seems that the Librarian either has a fear of having children or the guilt of abandoning her first child is still haunting her that she doesn't want another."

You glanced at Yoongi and frowned.

"Which brings me to the last person I did a deeper background search on: The Student Council President." Jimin typed into his keyboard. "And I found nothing. His records are clean...too clean. It really seems like he came out of thin air. No history about his family, his previous education, nothing. The only thing I know is from word of mouth from the students and teachers. I've learned the Student Council President has an oddly close relationship with the Librarian, AND..."

"And?"

"He was the only known friend and confidante of the 2nd victim -- his Vice President."

"So is he the culprit or is he seeking revenge?" You whispered.

Jimin shook his head. "Who knows? But this just proves even more that this assignment is highly dangerous, you two. The fact that these people have enough power to clear these incidents from their records is an indicator alone, but the reality that they were involved in such sketchy events despite how they act upfront shouldn't be taken lightly. We need to be on our toes from here on out."

"Do you think someone pushed for the dance because they have a plan?" Yoongi asked.

Jimin nodded, "I'm 100% positive that something will happen."

"Speaking of which and on a lighter note," Yoongi tapped on the table. "We just told the school that we have dates for the dance already."

Jimin snorted. "Sorry hyung. I can't be your date. I'm a staff member, although I'm quite flattered."

"No, you idiot!" Yoongi hissed. "Contact Hoseok and Jungkook. They're going to be our dates."

"I don't have to contact them." Jimin laughed.

"Why?" You tilted your head.

"Ever since the intrusion incident, they're always around." Jimin grinned.

The two emerged from the shadows without a sound.

"Namjoon wants them to always keep an eye out for us. He felt that if something unexpected happened, it might be too late if we call for back up if they're elsewhere." Jimin explained.

"As expected of our Brain." You smiled.

"I'll take Yoongi to the dance ~" Hoseok playfully hugged his best friend. "I'll make it seem like he actually has a decent dancing bone in his body."

Yoongi tried to shove him off, but to no avail. "I don't want you! I'll take Jungkook!"

You walked up and extended your hand towards the quiet member. "Would you mind going with me to the dance, Jungkook?"

The younger blushed and shook his head as he grabbed your hand. "I'll go with you."

You grinned.

"That's long enough!" Yoongi sliced his hand to cut your handshake apart childishly.

"Speaking of which, you two really need to be careful." Hoseok chuckled. "A lot of students think there's something ...more happening between you girls."

You blushed. "What??"

Hoseok grinned. "Like how Yoonji's always so protective over you. How you're always glued together. How Yoonji only really smiles and looks soft and comfortable when you're around--"

Yoongi covered his friend's mouth and pulled him into a headlock. "What nonsense are you spouting?!"

"It's what the other students are saying." Jungkook muttered. "We hear a lot through the pipes."

You giggled. "Do you stay in the ceiling all day?"

"Sometimes. But we often eat here with Jimin while monitoring the school through the camera system." Hoseok easily pried himself out of Yoongi's grip and replied.

"So you follow us around like creeps?" Yoongi nudged Hoseok.

"We split up most of the time. We're not here to babysit you trouble makers." Hoseok shoved Yoongi away playfully towards Jungkook, who pushed him in good fun. But Yoongi ended up on the ground from his unmatched strength.

He coughed, "Yeah, I forgot this child has the strength of the Hulk."

Jungkook beamed at the compliment.

"Anyways, you two need to get back to class. Here are late passes from me." Jimin handed them cards. "And remember to be careful. Especially you, Y/N. Lots of eyes are on you."

"Me?"

Hoseok, Jungkook, and Jimin nodded. You glanced at Yoongi, who simply sighed.

"I told you, you just attract danger." he ruffled your hair as you scrunched your face.

"I guess I chose the right career then." you retorted.

"We'll meet up to shop before the dance, my love ~" Hoseok playfully called out, earning a glare from Yoongi. "We have to match!"

Yoongi grumbled as he reached for the door.

You glanced back before the door opened. The two disappeared silently, and Jimin was already deleting the compilation, concentratedly.

"Thank you guys." You smiled.

Jimin glanced up. "Let's solve this together and go home, Y/N."

You grinned and nodded. "Let's."

"Have you picked out a dress yet, Y/N?" Braids brightly sat beside you.

"Um no...not yet. " You chuckled. "Haven't thought too much about it."

�� "We're going this weekend if you want to come with us!" Braids clapped. "Everyone's been really wanting to spend time with you!"

"Me?" You raised an eyebrow. "Why?"

"Well, like you're cool now, and they want to get to know you better outside of school, you know." Braids twirled her hair.

"Sorry, she already promised to go dress shopping with me." Yoongi stepped up.

You had to control your laughter by turning your head and coughing. You never thought you'd hear that coming out of Yoongi's mouth. It was incredibly amusing.

"Ooo ~ where are you going? We're going to a pretty famous unique store."

"Us too." Yoongi shrugged. "My date's sister owns a pretty famous shop."

Your eyes lit up. Hoseok's sister, Dawon, was incredibly beautiful and talented at fashion-related things. Although you sometimes wondered how much she knew exactly about her brother's job. She often provided your team clothes for various missions without much question. But this was the first time you would venture into her shop. But you remembered her being feisty, outspoken, and passionate, whenever you and Yoongi would spend time at Hoseok's house back in high school.

"Oh right! Do you have a picture of your date? Is he cute? Are you a thing?" Braids began rambling.

Suddenly, the bell rang and Jin waltzed in, as handsome and breathtaking as ever.

"I know. I know. The dance is coming soon and you're all excited, but that doesn't mean you can forget about your upcoming exams." he scolded.

The class groaned as they settled back to their seats.

Braids raised her hand, "Mr. Kim!"

"Yes?"

"Are you going to the dance with a date?"

Jin flustered, and for a split second, your eyes connected to each other's before it flitted back to Braids. You felt your heart flutter briefly at the contact.

"What're you talking about?" Jin laughed, waving the thought away lightly. "I have to keep an eye on you rowdy kids. I can't bring a date!"

"Will we see your iconic traffic dance again this year though?" One of the students called out.

"Of course!" Jin grinned. "That's why you all should come, alright?"

Yoongi kicked the back of your chair, and you ignored him, knowing that he was alluding to Jin being suspicious in wanting everyone there. But you didn't think there was anything cynical in his desire.

"Y/N." Your eyes were pried away from staring outside the window, lost in your own thoughts. You didn't even realize you were still in class. Glancing around, everyone was packing up. Time had flown.

"Y/N."

You looked up to find Jin hovering above you, standing tall in front of your desk. Hurriedly, you stood up.

"Mr. Kim! Sorry!"

He shook his head and chuckled. "I just wanted to see if you were okay."

"I'm fine. Thanks for asking." You smiled.

"Well, good. So there's no excuse for you to have zoned out during my entire lecture." he chuckled.

You blushed.

"Did I bore you?"

"No! Sorry! I just had a lot on my mind." You mumbled.

Jin poked your forehead. "You always worry too much, Y/N. Live a little."

Your eyes widened and looked up at Jin grinning at you. It was something that he had always told you in high school.

"Well, before you leave, please wake Ms. Yoonji." Jin glanced behind you, and you found Yoongi was, in fact, sound asleep. "Have a pleasant weekend. You can reach me if you have any questions about what you missed."

"Thank you, Mr. Kim." You bowed.

He shook his head. "Not at all. See you, Y/N."

You glanced at the door to find Braids watching you before disappearing into the hallway. Blinking, you hummed to yourself then proceeded to shake your partner.

He jolted and grabbed your wrist tightly as a reflex. Immediately, you pulled out of his lock and flicked his forehead.

"Yah."

He groaned. "Oh, it's just you."

"Yes...but this isn't our dorm, so get up." You scolded.

Yoongi stretched and yawned. "That was a good nap."

"It always amazes me how you still get one of the highest grades with that attitude." You swung your bag around your shoulder. "Let's go sleepyhead."

"Incoming."

You both heard Hoseok in your ear, and you and Yoongi stilled, bracing yourselves.

"Mr. Park! What do you mean you have a date? WHO??"

Jimin scurried into the classroom with the English teacher right on his tail.

"Just go with me English Teacher!" The Music Teacher was not far behind.

Jimin shot you a pleading look.

Yoongi coughed, gaining their attention. The English Teacher hurriedly let go of Jimin's arm, and they all stepped away from each other.

"Hello kids. What're you doing still in the classroom?" The English Teacher flashed a charming smile.

"We were just on our way back." You smiled. "Thank you for helping me out with my injuries, Mr. Park. I feel much better."

Jimin approached you. "It's my job. No problem."

"What color will you and Officer Tae be wearing to the dance?" You grinned.

Jimin's eyes widened and Yoongi chuckled.

"I-um-we...we haven't decided..." Jimin mumbled, not expecting this course.

"Wait...you're...you're..." The English Teacher stammered. "You like Officer Tae?"

Jimin blushed, "Um well..."

Through your earpieces, you could hear Hoseok cracking up hysterically.

"Oh right, Mr. Park. You still have to help me with my wounds. You think we can do that now before I head to my dorm?" Yoongi stood up and gestured towards the door.

"Yes of course." Jimin beamed. "Let's go!"

You trailed after the two, keeping a curious eye on the expression of the teachers. The English teacher looked distraught while the Music Teacher looked quite pleased, staring at her longingly from behind. You were a bit worried about her well-being if she were to go with him. And who knows if her desperation to go with Jimin was out of fear of the Music Teacher rather than desire to have a trophy date?

You looked down, not knowing how to help her or if you really could do anything in the first place. Most likely, nothing would justified until something happened with the Music Teacher. Then you furrowed your brows, recalling something that Prez had discussed with you awhile ago regarding this topic. But your thoughts were interrupted.

"Oh Y/N!" Librarian's voice was heard in the hallway. "Dear, I'm glad I found you."

"Hi!" You bowed.

"Here. Prez asked me to give this to you if I couldn't find him before the end of the day. He had left it with me when he rushed to find you during the incident." she handed you a novel.

It was another copy of "And Then There Were None".

"Why me?" You blinked as you cradled the book in your grasp.

"He said you'd probably see him more than I do him. And he trusts that you'll keep his copy safe." Librarian shrugged. "Please see to it that he gets it. He really cherishes that book."

"Why?" You asked.

Librarian smiled sadly, "It probably contains precious memories."

"Memories?" Yoongi blinked.

The Librarian nodded, "Its original borrower was the late Student Council Vice President, one of the victims."

Your eyes widened.

"Well I have to get back to the library. Take care!" the Librarian waved and scurried down the hall.

"Y/N." Yoongi grabbed your wrist, knowingly. "I'll go with you whenever you return it to him, okay?"

You looked at his face, completely serious. You knew he was worried so you nodded. You'd just return the book in the presence of Yoongi, but the next time you and the Prez saw each other alone, you knew you had a lot of questions for him.

Hugging the book close to your chest, you followed Jimin and Yoongi with your heart racing frantically. Was there something inside this book that no one else was supposed to see? And why did Prez trust you of all people?

The weekend came soon enough, and you and Yoongi walked into the newest shop in town in search of dresses.

"Y/N!" Dawon, Hoseok's sister, greeted you warmly. "It's good to see you!"

She did a double take at Yoongi, still dressed as a girl beside you, and shook her head. "Yoonji."

Yoongi waved his hand nonchalantly. "Yo."

"Oh my gosh. They're so hott." You heard familiar whispers around the store.

"Oh. A lot of people from your school have been here for this big dance." Dawon chuckled. "This is my newest store so I'm here more often than my other branches. You're all lucky."

"You're a lifesaver." You smiled as you looked at Yoongi.

It would've been worrisome to have someone discover his actual gender.

"I'm used to cleaning up after these two." Dawon snorted. "Your dates are waiting for you. You should join them before the fan girls start crowding."

You giggled as you glanced at where Hoseok was skimming through dresses with a rather terrified Jungkook glued behind him.

"Let me help a few of the girls here first, then I'll get to you. So sit tight."

"Thanks. We appreciate it." You bowed.

"Hobi! Your date's here! Show them around." she called out.

Hoseok perked up and shot you and Yoongi one of his radiant smiles.

"Y/N? Yoonji?" Braids appeared out of the oggling crowd of girls. "What a coincidence!"

"Was it really?" Yoongi snarled.

You elbowed him and waved. "Hey!"

"Noona!" Jungkook hurried to you, visibly relieved.

"My Yoonji ~" Hoseok enveloped Yoongi in his arms. "You're looking as beautiful as ever."

"I swear, Hoseok. I'm going to kill you." Yoongi hissed, but Hoseok merely cackled at his non-threatening comment.

"Rough time, huh?" You whispered to Jungkook, who simply nodded.

"I didn't know you two were going shopping here today. We could've walked to town all together." Braids approached your group curiously. "Are these your dates?"

"Um yeah." You smiled. "This is Jungkook."

Jungkook gave her a shy nod.

"And I'm Hoseok." Hoseok extended his hand amiably.

Braids blushed and shook his hand. "Well, it truly seems like these two attract handsome males wherever they go."

"Oh, you wouldn't believe." Hoseok snorted.

"Well, we're going to look around." You cut off the small talk. "Have a good time dress hunting!"

"I've found mine already." Braids beamed. "I knew it was meant for me as soon as I put it on."

"Yayy ~" Yoongi sassed, and you hit him lightly.

"I can't wait to see it." You smiled as you nudged Jungkook to start walking away.

"We'll probably be trying it on in a bit to get measurements done, so you can!" Braids clapped. "I want to know what you think! And I want to see yours too!"

You nodded, "Definitely. It's always nice to get another girl's opinion on outfits. Yoonji isn't very helpful."

"No." Braids giggled. "I heard she wasn't. But entertaining nonetheless."

Yoongi grumbled.

"The student in braids. It's your turn!" Dawon called out.

"See ya in a bit!" she smiled and scurried away.

"I vote a short dress for Yoonji." Hoseok grinned. "His legs are the most convincing asset."

"You're all just loving this, aren't you?" Yoongi crossed his arms.

"Yep." You, Hoseok, and Jungkook answered.

"Maybe we should go with a happy color?" You hummed as you perused the selections with the help of Jungkook.

"What are you going for?" he asked.

"What do you mean?"

"Like do you want to 'wow' people or be comfortable?"

"I'd like both." You grinned, and he chuckled.

It hadn't even been a few seconds since you separated when you heard Hoseok and Yoongi arguing a few racks away.

"It's too frilly, Hoseok. No."

"But I like frills! Very feminine!"

"I want black!!"

"How about orange?"

"BLACK!"

"But orange!! We have those matching orange track suits. It's like our color of love ~"

"GET AWAY FROM ME!"

"Hoseok. Yoonji." Dawon hissed from across the store. "This isn't your playground. If you want to argue, go outside!"

"Sorry..." the two mumbled.

You and Jungkook looked at each other and giggled.

"How about this one?" Jungkook reached out for simple emerald green halter dress with a high-low skirt.

"It's gorgeous." You were breathless.

Jungkook smiled enthusiastically; proud that he had selected something good.

"Want to try it on?" Hoseok appeared. "Noona reserved a special changing area for us. I can take you there."

"Please." You smiled. "Did you two compromise on something?"

"Red." Hoseok held up a dress. "Close to orange but dark enough to be close to black."

Yoongi rolled his eyes.

"Let's get you two changed then. This way." Hoseok led them to the back to a secluded changing area. "This is usually for bridal changes by the way, but luckily, there weren't any booked today."

There were two big changing rooms, and leading out of that room was an extravagant platform to show off your dress. Happily for the two, there was a couch for them to relax in while waiting.

"We'll be right out there. No funny business here, you two." Hoseok smirked.

You and Yoongi blushed and averted your eyes away from each other.

"Like I'd try anything." he mumbled.

You hurried into the closest changing area while Yoongi took the other. There was complete silence except for the sounds of zippers and buttons being undone. It was unnerving...the fact that you two were changing beside each other.

"I'm done." Yoongi sighed. "Just long enough to hide my underwear."

"You might have to wear briefs." You snickered. "I'll lend you some spanks."

"Yeah if you want my balls to combust."

You struggled to get the zipper all the way up the center of your back for a few minutes.

"You need help? You're taking awhile?" Yoongi questioned.

Your cheeks warmed. "Um...if you could...I can't zip myself all the way."

"Um...sure. Come out." You could hear the nervousness in his voice.

You stepped out to see him in a short red dress, in which the skirt fluffed out like a trimmed ball gown. And he wore a red bow clip on his wig, probably courtesy of Hoseok. You bit your lip to prevent yourself from laughing as you studied him.

"Don't even." he hissed as he fixed his dress.

"It actually really looks good on you. You're like Snow White!" You complimented.

"I don't know how to take that." he hummed as he circled behind you.

You glanced at the mirror to watch him as he carefully zipped you up, trying his best not to touch your bare skin. Your lips curled up.

"We look like Christmas."

He chuckled as he stepped beside you. "Celebrating the wrong season, huh?"

You admired yourself in the mirror. It hugged the right curves and the color accentuated your skin tone well. It was beautiful and surprisingly, the length of the dress fell right below your ankles, meaning with heels it would be perfect.

"You look beautiful."

Your heart flipped as you caught the gentle way Yoongi was gazing at you from his reflection in the mirror. The sincerity in the tone of his compliment was undeniable as well.

You couldn't help but smile.

"Thanks."

"We should head out." Yoongi gestured. "Who knows if those two went to sleep or something?"

"Are they out yet? Are they out yet?" You both heard Braids voice in the room.

"Sorry Hoseok. They kept asking about those two. Apparently something about everyone idolizing the two of them." Dawon shrugged.

"It's fine." Hoseok laughed. "Are you guys done?"

"Coming!" You called out.

"I'll go first." Yoongi stated as he trudged forward. "You have more of the wow factor."

Yoongi waltzed out, nonchalantly barefooted, as Jungkook and Hoseok tried to hold in their giggles at seeing him like that.

"Why didn't you get them shoes, Hoseok?" Dawon bellowed.

"How was I supposed to know?" Hoseok laughed.

"Flats please." Yoongi requested. "And heels for Y/N."

"I'll be right back. Don't move, Yoonji." Dawon ordered.

"Can I at least sit on the couch?"

"Don't. Move."

Hoseok giggled, "You're on her turf. Don't test her."

"Red looks SO good on you Yoonji!" The girls gushed. "And the short dress is so cute!"

"Um thanks." Yoongi scratched his neck shyly.

"Okay, here. Black sandals. Much like your soul." Dawon commented.

"Ha-ha." Yoongi responded dryly as he slipped them on, but you giggled in the back.

He glared over at you as you peeked out to see how the sandals looked on him.

"Here's Y/N's shoes. Can you help her get into them?" Dawon smiled as she handed him beautiful silver heels.

Yoongi nodded and made his way back to you.

"Sit." he ordered.

"I can--"

"I'll help." he stated.

You knew he would keep arguing so you sat down on the bench in your changing room. Yoongi knelt down and slipped the gorgeous heels onto your feet gently as you watched him in awe.

"Perfect fit!" he beamed and jumped up. "Can you stand?"

He reached his hands out and you took them without hesitation-- to help you get up easily of course.

His eyes took you in completely. You were absolutely beautiful. And lately, he had constantly been kicking himself for not letting you feel as such when you were together.

"You should get this." he squeezed your hands, smiling at the sight of his bracelet around your wrist.

"Is the dress nice?"

Yoongi shook his head. "You look gorgeous in that dress."

You averted your eyes, "Stop joking."

"I'm not." he laughed then urged you towards the platform. "Nowgo show off. I'm sure no one wants to see me again."

"You should probably let go of my hand first... unless you want to come out with me." You looked down, amused.

He hurriedly released you, flustered. "Right. Go forth!"

You giggled and strutted towards the platform confidently. Getting compliments from Yoongi were rare, so you felt revived that he had given you a few all because of one dress. You grinned and stepped out.

"Wowww." Everyone exhaled.

"You HAVE to buy that dress, Y/N!" Braids clapped. "It was MADE for you."

Dawon grinned widely, "Did Yoonji approve too?"

"Yeah." You blushed.

"Who picked it out?"

"Kookie did."

"Jungkook? Wow. I'm impressed." Dawon gave him the thumbs up. "It really fits her. Stay still so I can measure you. We may need just a little trim, but not too many alterations."

She pulled out her measuring tape from her pocket and got to work.

"Y/N, you're so gorgeous! You're like so perfect." the group of girls were cooing and praising you non-stop. It began feeling excessive and over-bearing. You shot a pleading look towards Jungkook, who nodded.

"Um...Hoseok hyung, why don't we chat with everybody outside while they get fitted?" he suggested.

"Sure. Let's all go?" Hoseok understood.

Of course everyone happily followed the two handsome boys out of the room. You exhaled, feeling much more relaxed.

"Some group of friends you have there." Dawon mused. "What do they gain by being close to you?"

"I wish I knew." You chuckled.

"And once upon a time, you wanted to be popular so bad." Yoongi emerged, still in his dress.

"And once upon a time, you and Hoseok played like normal people." Dawon pointed at him. "I know I'm not supposed to ask questions, but this is the most ridiculous thing I've done for ya'll."

"I'm sorry for the trouble." You frowned.

"I just said it was ridiculous. I didn't say it wasn't any fun." she grinned. "You all keep me creative with your requests. You can go change. I'll measure the shrimp quickly."

"What was that?!"

"You heard me."

"Say it to my face!"

"Too bad I can't see it, it's too far down."

You laughed at their bickering as you hurried to change out of your dress.

Only to come to the same issue with your zipper. You grunted as you struggled to pull the fabric up to reach it better, but to no avail. You exhaled.

"Need help?" Yoongi's amused voice echoed in the room.

"Please." You sighed.

"I'm coming in." he pulled the curtain slightly so that you two were in your changing room alone.

"You changed already?" You blinked to find him back in his sweater and jeans.

"Yeah. I thought you'd eventually be successful, but this is just sad." he grinned. "A little zipper doing you in."

"It's a real tragedy." You shook your head.

"Turn."

You did so and pulled your hair to the side to allow him better access to the zipper. The room suddenly became much warmer as he pulled the zipper down to free you. Both of you had forgotten that you weren't wearing anything underneath until the moment your skin was exposed.

"Um...uh there you go." Yoongi rushed out hurriedly.

"Th-thanks."

"Mhm."

You quickly changed back, and stepped out shyly.

"L-let's go?"

You nodded quietly and followed him.

"You should bring those girls more often." Dawon smirked as she grabbed the dresses from you two.

"Why?" You questioned.

"They bought like half the dresses that my brother recommended to them." She chuckled.

"Oh boy."

"So anyways, I'll have everything ready the day of the dance. You can come back and pick it up around 5pm. I'll be here to get you all ready and made up." she smiled.

"Perfect. Thank you." You bowed.

"Anything for my favorite customers." Dawon waved. "Come again!"

"Hoseok, Jungkook." You called out to them. "We're done!"

"Sorry girls. I'll see you all at the dance!" Hoseok waved and suavely threw an arm around Yoongi. "Did I do well?"

"I'm not sure if you were working or playing." Yoongi mumbled as you four stepped out into the streets.

"Mmm both?" Hoseok grinned. "I got some info."

"Like?"

"Most of the popular girls pick up the dresses all together then get ready at a specific salon together. And most of the other girls try to follow them so they can look just as rich and classy. And that they go all out with decorations, food, and music during these dances. The families try to outdo each other with donations as a sign of status, so all eyes are really on this event." Hoseok recounted.

"Meaning that if something were to happen, it's likely these deaths will turn the school and their families upside down." You frowned.

"Everyone's mentality is at their tipping point. If you take the one positive thing they're distracted on, their one glimmer of hope of normalcy, everything will snap." Hoseok snapped his fingers together. "And bam! Chaos."

"And chaos would mean free reign to kill." Yoongi sighed. "No one would be looking for the killer anymore, and may end up just killing each other to survive."

You shivered. "Let's hope it doesn't get there."

Jungkook wrapped his sweater around your shoulders, and you smiled gratefully.

"There's already been 5 victims." Hoseok sighed. "And if the person is referring to the novel...the total number of victims they're going for is..."

"Ten." You breathed as you looked up at the sky. "But what'll happen after 10? Will they reveal it? Or will they continue elsewhere?"

Yoongi glanced at you sadly. "Let's hope it doesn't get that far."

"It feels like the tides are going to turn." You frowned. "If something happens at this dance, the school will probably never be the same."

"The whole team will be there. We won't let anything bad happen to anyone." Jungkook patted your head reassuringly.

You smiled slightly and nodded.

"Now, it's been awhile since we've all gathered. Let's have lunch then ice cream!" Hoseok cheered.

"Ugh. It's so annoying. Like she's not even that pretty." the girls huffed as they waltzed into the ice cream shop.

Jimin and Tae raised an eyebrow, recognizing Braids and the few who decided to wear their school uniforms during the weekend. Jimin pulled his shades over his eyes as he continued to scoop into the large sundae he and Tae were sharing.

"Yeah, like doesn't it feel like Y/N was taunting us? I mean that smug smile while introducing her hott date, and when she came out in that dress, she was like so arrogant."

"The color looked like vomit." someone snickered.

Braids chuckled, "I mean yeah I know."

"I thought you were close to her Braids? Why're you hanging out with us? It looked like you wanted to join their group instead."

"No!" Braids waved her hand. "Of course not. I'm just nice to her. But now that she's gotten popular, she's starting to piss me off too."

"Like we worked to become popular, and she got it overnight? Just because she caught a stupid ball? How ridiculous."

"Do you know how much we got done to look this good?"

Tae slurped his drink loudly, earning the girl's attention. Braids appeared to have recognized him and so they hurried to a table further away from them.

"How awful." Jimin frowned.

"Poor Y/N." Tae hummed.

"She has us now. It's fine." Jimin shrugged.

"More than us now." Tae smiled. "I'm happy."

Jimin nodded, "Me too."

"So when will you ask me to the dance?" Tae grinned.

Jimin choked on his drink. "What?"

"Y/N told me about what happened. When were you going to ask me?" Tae shrugged.

"I mean uh casually?" Jimin chuckled. "I don't know. Did you even want to go?"

"Jimin-ah." Tae called.

"Hm?"

"Let's go to the dance together."

Jimin laughed, "Alright."

Tae giggled.

"They said they'll meet us here after lunch, right? It's been awhile since we've all just hung out." Jimin glanced at his phone.

"Mhm." Tae swung his legs happily as he finished his strawberry smoothie. "I want another!"

"That's your 3rd one, Tae."

"Oh well ~" Tae skipped to the line happily.

Jimin exhaled and shook his head, amused.

The week flew by relatively quickly. Somehow, you and Yoongi came out at the top of your class academically despite not having paid attention too much. Then again, this was your second time repeating high school while the others were in their first run through. But apart from exams, the excitement of the dance coursed through everyone's veins. What had been morbid and solemn just weeks prior was once again lively and energetic.

The day of the dance arrived and you waltzed into the Meijiwoo shop to pick up the dress in good spirits with Yoongi, Hoseok, and Jungkook at your side.

"Oh good. We all came at the same time." Dawon arrived pulling her fashionable sunglasses above her head. "I thought I might be late since I was coming from a different store."

"I'm sure we could've managed with Hoseok showing us around." Yoongi sassed.

"Sure, squirt." She brushed off as she walked into her shop. "How did the pick-ups go?"

"Bad news!" her workers rushed to her frantically. "Someone's dress was slashed!"

Dawon squinted. "Whose?"

"I-it was the green...one..." they hung their heads.

Everyone glanced at you worriedly, and you suddenly started feeling very disheartened.

"Did I not say to keep a special eye on that one?" Dawon scolded.

"We're sorry!"

"Did you find who did it?" she questioned.

"We'll check the cameras."

Dawon sighed as one of her workers handed her her coffee to appease her. "Luckily, I had an inkling something like this would happen. Come."

"You thought something like this would happen?" Yoongi questioned.

"If you've been in this business long enough, you start noticing trends of ill will and jealous as easily as breathing." Dawon explained.

"There's been plenty of dress stealing and slashing."Hoseok commented. "Especially during prom season, or even brides who know each other."

"My stores only sell very limited numbers of each style, so the competition and demand is very high." Dawon grinned. "But that's what makes the brand very desired. You're guaranteed to be unique."

You smiled. She was so undeniably mature and chic, on top of being talented and passionate in her business.

"Yoonji, go get changed. You'll be fairly easy to do hair and make-up on. Hoseok, go with her. Jungkook, Y/N, follow me to my studio in the back." She waved her hand. The two boys obeyed, while you and Jungkook glanced at each other and trailed behind her.

"When I saw you in that dress, Y/N, I got inspired to design and make a new dress. I was going to wait for another special occasion to give it to you, but this is a good a time as any for its debut."

"What?" You questioned, but you gasped when she opened the door to her studio and spotted a gorgeous dress on display.

It was a beautiful, eye-catching Tiffany blue, and you couldn't take your eyes off of it.

Dawon pressed a button and the glass case opened.

"I figured you'd need to move more easily, so the skirt can be designed in various ways." she grinned proudly. "It looks like a high-low, but if you look at the back, there's still a lot of fabric that looks like a trail. If you detach it," she did so. "And wrap it around across your waist, it'll be a full length skirt with a leg slit. Or you can completely detach it to make it a short dress. For kicking ass. The extra fabric could be used as rope or a parachute or something."

You covered your mouth. You were absolutely in love with it.

"It's also fool proof and shock absorbent, so if you spill something, it won't stain and if someone hits you, it won't hurt as much." she winked. "AND" She lifted up the inside of the skirt to reveal pockets excitedly. "you can hide whatever you need in there."

"This is AMAZING!" You breathed. "Thank you!"

"You're like a little sister, Y/N. It's a shame to always be surrounded by boys and not being able to dress up so prettily." she smiled as she patted your cheek. "But now you can. This dress is one of a kind, just like you."

You embraced her warmly. "I have no words."

"It's a thank you for bringing life back to Yoongi again, and for always looking out for the pair." she muttered. "They're family, even though they're both a pain in the ass."

You were about to ask her what she meant about bringing life about to Yoongi, but she shoved the dress into your arms without hesitation.

"Now, we don't have much time. Get that on and then I have to do your hair and make-up. I have to pick out your accessories. " Dawon cackled as she floated out of the room. " I need to have that shrimp look shook, especially when dressed as he is. This will be gold!"

Amused, you glanced at Jungkook, who picked up the dress easily for you, and you both hurried to the changing room.

You entrusted yourself to Dawon for the next hour and a half as she did your hair and make-up on her own, ordering people here and there, and making decisions about your accessories. You wondered how the others were faring. Jungkook and Hoseok had disappeared to get into their tuxedos, while you hadn't heard about Yoongi since you walked into the shop. Hopefully, he didn't keel over from all the fussing.

"My masterpiece." Dawon beamed as she stared at you, her face full of contentment and satisfaction.

You blushed.

"Take a look." She stepped away and gestured behind you. "Stand up, and stand tall."

You shut your eyes and took a deep breath. Slowly, you pushed yourself out of the chair and turned around to face the full length mirror. When your eyes opened, you were met with the shocked, gaping expression of Yoongi in front of you.

"Yoonji! Get away! You're ruining her moment!" Dawon hissed as she snapped pictures of his face on her phone anyway.

Hoseok snorted as his friend didn't register what his sister said, too busy gawking at you. You smiled shyly and looked down. Hoseok pulled him to the side so the mirror was free, and you gasped at your reflection. You were speechless.

You were stunning. Yoongi had no other words in his vocabulary. Even if he did, his ability to speak apparently disappeared as soon as you turned around. He silently cursed Dawon, because she had made it so much harder to protect you from the lustful stares of hormonal teenage boys, and made it ten times more difficult to calm his racing heart.

"Well, come on. There are 3 people in this room, and no one is giving compliments." Dawon mentioned.

Hoseok shoved Yoongi forward.

"Shit Hoseok." Yoongi glared back at his friend, but then he glanced forward, your expectant face staring at him, and he got timid. "It...You...you look breath-taking."

Your lips curled up. "You don't look bad yourself."

Yoongi pouted. He wished he wasn't dressed like a female so you would take him a bit more seriously.

"Good thing you're dressed like that." You chuckled as you looked back at the mirror and fiddled with your dress.

"Why?" he asked.

"I might've been charmed by your compliment." You grinned.

Yoongi's lips curled up. So did that mean he had a chance if he did it seriously next time?

"Namjoon's here with the limo. Let's go." Hoseok glanced at his watch.

"It's still a bit ridiculous that everyone lives on campus, but they're coming into the building in limos and carriages." You snorted.

"Rich people." Yoongi shook his head.

"Be careful." Dawon waved. "And have fun."

"I can't thank you enough." You grabbed her hands warmly.

"All I want is for you all to come back safely." She squeezed your hands. "Okay?"

"We will." You smiled.

Without missing a step, you all piled into the limo, in which Namjoon was already an occupant. He beamed as you gathered into the vehicle.

"You all look very handsome and beautiful." he complimented.

"Thanks." Everyone replied.

"Here are the new weapons. Arm yourselves." Namjoon handed each of you a sack.

"The words I love hearing. New weapons." You grinned as you inspected each of them before carefully storing them in your skirt or in your leg holsters.

"So I can't stress enough how critical tonight will be. It is likely they will try to pull through multiple murders today. We have to be mindful of everyone and everything. Luckily, most of the team will be on site, so it'll be easier to scan the perimeter without looking paranoid." Namjoon took out another bag. "And here are the new ear pieces. This time, there's a button to signal danger, just in case you aren't allowed to speak. And if you press twice, we can listen into the conversation. Priority is safety. Don't engage with the murderer, but protect the victims discreetly. We can't expose our skill set and our identities. And they can't theirs. So if the lights malfunction, Tae made these automatic night vision contacts, so everyone put them on."

Namjoon gave you all time to do so before proceeding.

"Again, try to save people as natural and as unskillfully as possible." he instructed.

"Like save them...without looking like you're saving them?"

"Yes. More or less, if they attack at the dance, they'll have something to combat the darkness too, so as clearly as you can see them, they can see us."

"Ah. If we're seen kicking ass, it'll be obvious that we're not just mere students." Hoseok restated.

"Exactly."

"This is going to be difficult indeed." Hoseok hummed.

"We can do it." You claimed confidently. "We're all the agency's top students. If we can't pull it off, who can?"

The others nodded and smiled.

"Stay safe team." Namjoon saluted, and you all returned the gesture as the limo pulled up in front of the school.

It was time.

Yoongi grinned widely as he watched you turn heads from behind as the four of you made your way up the stairs towards the building. But as always, you didn't notice, too busy nervously chatting with Jungkook and trying not to trip on your heels to care. He should've flaunted you like that in high school. He should've been more proud to be with you. He should've --

"If you stare any longer, lasers are gonna shoot out of your eyeballs and into the back of her head." Hoseok chuckled.

Yoongi relaxed. "Ha-ha."

"So I see you're still kicking yourself because you just realized how stupid you were in the past." Hoseok grinned.

"Why didn't you tell me?" Yoongi pursed his lips, annoyed.

"I did. Multiple times. I said 'You're stupid for letting her go. You're stupid for saying that. You're stupid for not apologizing. You're an idiot.' and you said 'I don't give a shit. I don't give a fuck.'"

Yoongi sighed.

"But you know, everything has its time." Hoseok smiled. "Don't dwell too much on what happened or what will happen, and just focus on the time that's given to you right now."

"Too bad, I'm not in the proper attire to go and woo her at this second."

"Okay well, maybe not exactly right now. It's not the right time." Hoseok's eyes twinkled. "But don't wait too long like you did in high school, and like you did when she walked out of your life."

"Yeah, yeah. You keep saying that."

"I've just seen you dude. Those years weren't pretty." Hoseok teased.

"Shut up." Yoongi rolled his eyes.

"Wow..." You breathed, garnering their attention as you all stepped into the Grand Hall, fully decorated in shimmering gold and crystal decorations. You tightened your hold on Jungkook's arm. "Oh my gosh! Look at the buffet!"

"That's the first thing I said too." Jin appeared, chuckling. "You look very beautiful, Y/N."

You smiled, "You look very dashing as well, Mr. Kim."

"I know." Jin grinned. "Anyway, before enjoying festivities, I need you to sign in so we can make sure we have the proper headcount tonight."

"Sure thing." You grabbed the clipboard and pen from him to sign in then passed it to Yoonji.

Hoseok turned his head away, but Jin's stare lingered on him for a few seconds before turning back to you. It didn't miss your keen eye though.

"Enjoy the evening everyone! Help yourselves to appetizers." Jin waved and hurried to the next few students from your homeroom that had arrived.

"Do you know each other?" You asked Hoseok.

"Well, I visited Yoongi at school so I bumped into him a couple of times. Then I danced on the side during college and we met a few times at competitions."

"Was he good?" You were curious. "I've never seen him dance."

"I can't say I remember..." Hoseok hummed.

"Oh my gosh! Y/N!" Braids gasped. "You changed your dress! What happened?"

Yoongi stepped in front of you defensively.

"Why do you think something happened?"

Braids was a bit taken aback. "I... I meant what happened as in why she changed her dress is all."

You lay a hand on Yoongi's shoulder. "There was some damage on it, so she kindly gave me another one."

"Well this one's definitely ten times more beautiful." she complimented, tracing the skirt playfully. "I'm jealous! You look so pretty!"

"Thanks." you smiled.

"Hi Jungkook. Hi Hoseok." she greeted. "Hi Yoonji. Oh, here comes Prez. Hi Prez!"

You perked up and spun around in time to see him approaching your group.

"Hey." he smiled, eyes focused intently on you before scanning to everyone else. "You all look very charming."

"You as well." You bowed. "This is my date Jungkook, and Yoonji's date, Hoseok."

"Nice to meet you boys. I'm the Student Council President." he shook their hands.

He seemed to hesitate on asking you something, so you answered knowingly.

"I have it."

He looked surprised you had read his mind, but his lips curled up contently. "Good. Please take good care of it."

You nodded.

"I'll see you around throughout the night. Enjoy the party!" he scurried to greet the Librarian happily.

"Y/N!"

"Mr. Park!" You turned, immediately recognizing the voice, and waved. "Inspector Kim!"

The two waltzed towards the group in well fitted suits, earning many glances their way.

"Woww! Let me see. Do a spin for me!" Tae beamed happily, forgetting his place, but you appeased him anyway. "I love it! You look so pretty ~"

"Thank you. You two cleaned up nicely too. "You grinned, feeling at ease finally seeing your two best friends together and being able to talk candidly for once.

For a few minutes, you all chatted warmly as people trickled in. It wasn't until Namjoon was heard in everyone's ear pieces that you were brought back to reality.

"Assume positions everyone. It's go time."

And so the night proceeded smoothly. Everyone danced, mingled, ate food, and danced some more. You kept an eye out for any suspicious activity, but none of the staff members left the premises. You spotted the Counselor keeping the English Teacher company by the buffet the entire time. It seemed like she was talking his ear off, but he was kind enough to continue listening. Jin was being bothered constantly for pictures from students, but he obliged happily. He occasionally jumped into groups and danced cutely, which the students absolutely loved. Prez oddly looked tense and vigilant, but would converse or dance with whoever approached him. You thought to yourself that maybe...just maybe the night would go without any difficulties.

But as soon as you finished that thought, the lights flickered. You had time to catch Yoongi's worried expression directed at you from across the room before you were all completely plunged into complete darkness.

Piercing screams were heard throughout the hall, and your eyes scanned for movement, to find that there were a lot of people moving.

Students.

Students were going around shoving people down. But why?

You followed the closest student's trajectory, and pretended to stumble into a chair, forcing it to fly forward, colliding with the shadow.

"Someone's touching me!"

"Ow!"

"Who's shoving?"

"Get off me!"

Sounds of irritated and distraught students began flooding the place. Crashes were heard here and there, and you prayed those sounds were because the others doing what they could to keep their protection inconspicuous. You saw Jungkook grab the tablecloth as he pretended to stumble and look for something to grip, whipping it back to hit one of the rebels in the face. You reached out for his arm as a gesture that he did well.

Yoongi, on the other hand, was crawling on the floor, causing the others to trip and stumble over as they tried to make their rounds of bullying in the dark. Jimin and Tae had knocked over some of the food to make it harder to move around quickly. Hoseok was going around waving his hand in front of him, as if he was feeling out the darkness, and moving people out of the way to protect them, in the pretense that he was trying to find Yoonji. That certainly threw off the students who weren't used to seeing in the dark. It seemed they had mapped out everyone's locations prior to the darkness, and used that to guide them.

Why was this happening?

"Counselor!"

There was a shriek heard and the lights flickered on at that exact moment. Within the few minutes of darkness, the entire hall was vandalized and trashed. Students were either on the floor or clutching their partners out of fear. You glanced around worriedly.

"Counselor!" the English Teacher called out again.

The Counselor had blood trickling from his head.

Jimin hurried over immediately, "What happened?"

"Someone hit him with something. I heard the crash and he faltered. I panicked." The English Teacher cried. "Will he be alright?"

"S-someone help, please!" The Librarian was weeping, and you realized it was her that had shrieked last.

You ran over and gasped. "Mr. Park, Inspector Tae!"

The two rushed over at your urgent call.

Writhing on the floor, with a knife plunged into his side was the Student Council President.

"He rushed in front of me and I heard an odd noise and I knew something was off. Then he collapsed. I just-I just...how did he get here?" the Librarian cried as she felt the Prez's body frantically. "Is he? Is he?"

Prez coughed and smiled weakly. "I'm alive. I'm okay."

"I don't think having a knife in gut is being alright." You knelt down.

"Team. Suspicious activity going on in the hallway. Unidentified person spotted among other students who were in attendance at the dance. One student had blood on his hands."

You glanced down at the knife covered in blood, feeling your skin crawl.

"Hey look! There's a trail of blood going to the hallway!" One of the students mentioned. "We can catch the culprit if we follow it! Let's go!"

A few of the students began gathering hurriedly to make their way out of the hall.

"Y/N." Prez whispered.

"What?" You leaned down.

"There's going to be two. I stopped one. But another person will be a victim." he breathed. "Please."

"Are you sure?"

He nodded and coughed.

Jimin and Tae were hurriedly working to bandage his wounds and stop the bleeding. The Librarian had already called the ambulance and was still blubbering worriedly. You gulped and stood up.

"Hey, someone's wearing all black in the hallway and running around!" a student pointed. "Let's get them!"

"Wait--" you were about to call out as you marched towards the group. But then you heard a snapping noise above from where you stood. You glanced up and gasped as you saw the chandelier loosening.

"Jimin, Tae!" You called out, and they immediately shielded the Prez and Librarian.

"Y/N! Get out of there!" Yoongi bellowed.

You shut your eyes; it was too late to will yourself to move. But suddenly, you felt yourself being propelled away from your spot by a heavy force. Hearing the loud crash, but not feeling anything, you opened your eyes curiously.

"Jin?" You breathed as you realized he was laying on top of you, cradling your head carefully.

He smiled wryly. "You shouldn't just stand and stare at chandeliers falling on you silly."

You exhaled in relief. "How many times has that been now?"

"Hm?"

"That you saved me." You chuckled.

"I think 2 or 3...but who's counting?" he grinned as he pried himself off of you.

"Kids, don't chase the stranger without any adults!" The Principal and Vice Principal chased after the crowd of students running out, full of confidence that they could chase the killer.

"They're decoys." Namjoon spoke into your earpieces.

Jin helped you up, and you immediately glanced at your team members with a curt nod. It would have to be divide and conquer.

"Treat the injured." Tae patted Jimin's hand. "And keep an eye out for the people here. I'll go with them."

"Be careful." Jimin frowned.

�� "You too."

Prez coughed, and Jimin applied more pressure to the wound, praying the ambulance would come in time.

Quickly, you adjusted your skirt so you could move around with more ease. You silently praised Dawon for her consideration.

"I'll come with you, Y/N." Jin grabbed your hand. "Let me come."

You stared at him worriedly. "Are you sure?"

He nodded.

You turned to your date for the night, who was waiting for your instructions.

"Let's go then, Jungkook, Jin."

The three of you hurried out of the hall and made a right, while Hoseok and Yoongi made a left.

"Okay, so tell me, why are people chasing AFTER the killer?" Jin questioned. "Aren't we supposed to be running AWAY?"

"Probably because everyone wants to stop this kind of anxiety from happening again. They want to end this for good." You answered.

Jin nodded understandably.

"I do have to confess, Jin." You clenched your fists. "I've trained in martial arts."

"Oh?" Jin blinked. "Why this confession all of a sud--"

People dressed in all black with their faces covered sprung out of adjacent classrooms, and you immediately began punching, kicking, and flipping them to the ground. Jungkook was trying to hold back his strength, carefully trying not to injure anybody. Jin panicked and threw out a punch gently at someone who came close to him. You chuckled, and proceeded to side-kick them away.

"Good hit, Mr. Kim."

He shook his head, amused. "I try."

"Everyone. They're not decoys. They're all disappearing into one place. They're leading everyone there." Namjoon spoke in panic.

"Where?" You heard Yoongi's voice ask.

"To the Science Room."

Your stomach dropped.

The freezers.

Jungkook finished off the rest of the accomplices, and you all ran towards the Science Room.

The daunting realization that you were no longer dealing with just one or two murderers in the school, but more than a handful of accomplices, terrified you greatly. You temporarily willed yourself to shake those thoughts away for now, and pushed your legs to take you where you needed to be.

When you arrived, a large crowd had gathered. You noticed all the staff members were present, even the Counselor, who had his head injury covered with a gauze pad for the time being. The Science Teacher was at the front of the crowd, looking seemingly flabbergasted that his classroom had become the gathering place. The trail of blood entered the room, and made its way into his office. Your heart raced as you pushed yourself to the front of the crowd, where you spotted Tae, Yoongi, and Hoseok looking disgusted and shocked.

"What happened?" You breathed.

Tae closed his eyes and shook his head.

"Don't come here, Y/N." Yoongi frowned.

"Why? Who is it?" You slowly moved forward, following the trail of blood to the opened door of the Science Teacher's office.

"Y/N." Yoongi grabbed your arm tightly. "Don't go in."

Your gaze fell to the end of the blood trail and into the fully opened freezer, containing a mutilated body, stuffed carelessly inside. The blood was fresh and still dripping down, creating a pool at the bottom of the container. Your hand covered your mouth to stop you from throwing up as you spotted the head of the body.

Staring back at you was your very first friend in this high school, Braids.

PART 8

218 notes · View notes

thedarkenedkeeper · 7 years ago

Text

Glitched: Part 10 - Always Watching

Author’s Note: Holy hell, was this insane to write X_X

A few things. Firstly, I apologize for how long it took for this to come out. I was incredibly anxious about school, plus I was just overly struggling with writing this chapter. I had a general idea of what I wanted to happen, but I didn’t really know how to get it down into words.

Secondly, this came out as about 18 pages long in Word so I apologize for how ridiculously long this is! I didn’t think it was going to come out so damn long!

And thirdly, this chapter is heavy on the angst. There’s a little bit of horror – of course – but this chapter is mainly angst-ridden so prepare for a LOT of feels! For Christ’s sake, I CRIED while writing this, so that should be saying something.

WARNING: This chapter is very heavy and is incredibly dark. There are mentions of suicide, abuse (both physical and mental), bullying (mainly cyberbullying), existential crisis, self-mutilation, and incredibly low self-esteem. There are mentions of a character getting lobotomized. There is a scene with a detailed description of the inside of a character’s back, which contains abnormal anatomy.

I will say this and I will say this one: This is NOT a happy fun time chapter! (I know, the story as a whole isn’t happy, but this chapter is VERY heavy on the angst as opposed to the other chapters) There ARE feels.

You have been warned.

Enjoy!

(I am SO sorry. I feel so bad for writing this! ;^;)

Listen to this playlist while reading.

Wheezing breaths of agony echoed throughout the room as he operated. Warm sticky crimson spurted onto his naked lanky fingers – the very fingers of which were maneuvering the stainless steel instrument through his patient’s skull. A pained gasp expelled from the man upon the bloodied table.

“Oh be quiet.” The glitching entity hissed with agitation. “Stop your whining.” He scoffed. “You act as though you’ve never felt pain before.” A delighted giggle came ringing out of the creature’s slit throat. “Almost like you’re afraid of dying.”

A quivering whimper could faintly be heard coming from his patient as he fiddled with the orbitoclast. The green-haired demon smirked from behind his surgical mask.

“I must say, Herr Doktor,” He said in a horrible German accent, mocking the man, “you should be proud of me. I’m no doctor, but I seem to be doing an impeccable job here, if I do say so myself.” He bragged, his smirk stretching into a twisted smile.

The ice pick sank in further, a trail of blood running out onto the demon’s fingertips. A sharp intake of air, followed by a shaky sob left the patient; the entire mass of flesh jolting and tensing up against his restraints. The overhead light flickered as the sinister being growled through his teeth out of annoyance.

“For fuck sake, stop it! This is delicate work – you of all people should know that!” He snapped sharply, though he ironically gave the pick a violent tap; jabbing the inside of the man’s skull.

It only made the tortured man release a loud moan of unbearable agony, a trembling hand pulling weakly at its bond and trying to reach out for the figure leering over him. After a brief moment, the struggling died down and a faint shaky whine slipped out. The demon chuckled, continuing with his ministrations.

“You see? That wasn’t so hard, now was it? I told you that you could handle the pain.” The creature’s head gave a sudden twitch to the left, then the right, before returning his cold eyes to his patient. He grinned. “If I can bear with it, so can you. Anesthesia is fOr ThE wEaK!” In seconds flat, the entity’s form glitched out spastically; the grin gone and replaced with a grimace of anger, trying to make a point. Almost as quick as it had happened, the toothy smile returned, accompanied with a horrifying cackle of glee.

Another weak whine left the pained patient.

“Trust me, my friend, zhis is for your own good.” The manifestation grinned mockingly, using the exact same words the doctor had said to him when he had been operated on back on October 29th. “Don’t worry, I’m going to fix you right up.” He expelled a useless breath, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. He chuckled lightly before his being glitched out; his facial expression almost immediately falling flat. “I’m going to fix you all.” He hissed softly under his breath.

The poor man upon the table suddenly jerked, a strained gasp of pain getting ripped out of his vocal cords. Anti growled, put off with how uncooperative his patient was being.

“Oh come on, give it a rest already! Get ahold of yourself! You’re not dying!” He mumbled the next few words with promise. “Not yet anyway, but I don’t get to choose the outcome. You should be so lucky.” He wedged the pick in further, showing no remorse towards the man when he writhed and released a choked breath.

As the twisted imposter of a doctor carried on with the operation, getting blood smeared all along his pale digits, he began to yet again find himself slowly but surely sinking into the hatred he held towards the community. No one knew how he felt, not truly anyway. Everyone automatically assumed the unstable creature was just a monster, and as such, he behaved like one. But he was only like that thanks to his creators – they were the ones who gave him life and made him what he was. If they hadn’t wanted a monster, then why hadn’t they done anything to “fix” him? Why hadn’t they taken action when they had had the chance? Anti stared down at his handy work, dark eyes unblinking as the anger started to weave throughout his veins.

“They’re making me do this. They would say otherwise, I know they would. They’re all deceivers – monsters like me, although much worse.” An insidious giggle rang throughout the operating room, sending cold chills down his patient’s spine. “They don’t give a shit about any of us. They can’t seem to make up their damn minds on anything.” He chuckled, although given what he was talking about, it was an incredibly unnerving chuckle. There was nothing but fury and hate behind it. “And they have the audacity to go and point fingers at me and call ME the monster, the true villain in all of this? HA!” He jabbed the orbitoclast rather unexpectedly, instantly getting a horrific reaction out of his tortured patient. He glowered down at the man, his abyssal orbs growing darker and colder than what was already possible.

“They have no idea what they’ve done to me.”

* * * * *

It was not long after Halloween when the demon had begun to notice the changes in his audience. After Anti had “killed” Jack in front of the still recording camera and finally took possession of the Irishman’s body, the glitching entity just had to go and upload the footage to YouTube two days later. After all, Jack himself had wanted to make a Halloween video for the fans; he had even teased them about it with the brief recording he had posted on Instagram. As Anti saw it, he was doing the man a favour. And of course, just as he had expected, after that video was released, the entire community went up in flames. Everyone freaked out – both out of equal amounts of delight and fear. Many actually believed Jack had in fact died and that Anti had taken over, and the insidious manifestation could only laugh out of amusement, applauding those few who knew the truth. He had been so gleeful to see his creators’ reactions, taking in just how shell-shocked they each became and how they all screamed his name. It was almost a surreal experience; the demon couldn’t quite contain his happiness.

However, though he was now the one in control, he knew his fans were going to suspect that he was the one inhabiting Jack’s body. And though that was true, he figured he’d have a bit of fun with them all. He would instead put on a deceitful act and pretend to be everyone’s favorite green-haired Irishman. It was time for him to put all of the training he had done over the past couple of months to good use. He would wear a mask and act like nothing had happened, and that’s exactly what he did.

A delayed video was posted hours later of him explaining what had happened during October leading up to Halloween. The glitch definitely put on a seamless act. The way he spoke, the way he acted, the joy and optimism and excitement gleaming in his blue eyes, the positivity radiating off of the man – it was all far too perfect. There wasn’t any way anyone would conclude it wasn’t Jack speaking in front of the camera. The unhinged trickster came up with a convincing lie off the top of his head, telling his audience how everything had just been one big act for Halloween. Anti wasn’t real, it was just Jack pretending to be an evil demented version of himself out to kill him. It was all just a scary idea he had had for the Halloween season – he wasn’t dead.

And the fandom believed him. They fell for his two-faced lies, each individual word sliding off of his wicked tongue and twisting his creators’ beliefs. They had all bought into his seemingly innocent fable. Some were confused, some didn’t know what to believe anymore, but all of them knew deep down that Jack was perfectly fine and he was only embracing the character of Anti…right?

For a time, the glitching entity had been very pleased with his ways of deception, how he managed to warp every single member of the community into believing he was in fact everyone’s good ol’ Jackaboy…that was until he began to take notice of how little attention he himself was receiving.

Sure, after his appearance on Halloween, a ton of fan art, fanfiction, and posts about him had been produced. There was no denying the fact how all of it had given him immense strength and power. However, given how he was pretending to be someone he wasn’t – someone the entire fandom had adored – he realized with a horrendous hybrid of surprise and perplexity that the community was once again returning there attention onto Jack. They all seemed to be relieved at the fact that he was alright and unharmed, that he hadn’t actually died. They were grateful he was alive, and Anti didn’t understand why. Hadn’t they wanted him to cut the man out of the picture? Hadn’t they wanted him to replace the pathetic Irishman and give them a far more superior being to look up to?

As the months passed away and autumn faded into winter, the demented creature began to truly notice the difference in the community’s behavior. He was slowly but surely becoming forgotten by his own creators. Granted, there were still pieces of fan art and fanfiction floating about here and there on social media, but other than that, their main focus was no longer on him; it had been shifted back onto Jack and it appeared to be staying that way. And though he tried to convince himself otherwise, Anti firmly believed that his fans only thought of him as a one-time thing – that he had had his one chance to steal the limelight and now that it had passed, it was time to move on. And the demon was not at all pleased with this.

The minute he had noticed the change in the fandom, Anti had stormed off into the darkened hell where he kept his host caged up and went off on a long-winded rant about just how confused and enraged he was for suddenly being ignored and accused of being a “one-time thing”.

“What? A ‘one-time thing’?” The green-haired Irishman had questioned from behind the searing-hot bars of the cell. He shook his head slowly, not entirely understanding. His alter ego was speaking so quickly, he could barely keep up. “I don’t understand.”

“What’s there to not understand? They see me as a one-time thing! A side-show act!” The manifestation snapped with a glitch of his head.

“Well what did you expect? You’ve been pretending to be me all this time.” Jack stated simply. “They think I’m perfectly fine and that it was all just an act. They don’t really think you exist, and you’ve made them believe that.”

“Shut up! They know I exist, I know they do!” His body spasmed for a fleeting moment as he paced the room. “And yet…” He chuckled lightly in disbelief, “And yet, they’re acting like nothing had happened. Like everything that had led up to Halloween – all of my sudden appearances – meant nothing.” He whirled around and locked his eyes onto the man in the cage. “It’s almost like they’ve forgotten about me completely.” He scoffed, a petite smile flashing across his face in the blink of an eye. “They haven’t forgotten about me completely, thank fuck for that. But…But they’re my creators, damn it!” He flared, his entire form twitching and jerking, struggling to remain stable. “They created me, they brought me to life, and I gave them a show! So why aren’t they giving me attention?”

With no warning, one moment he was a few feet away from the cell and the next, he was suddenly standing right in front of the bars, slamming his hands against them with a violent bang. Jack’s heart nearly jumped out of his chest at the action, stumbling backward and nearly catching himself off balance. Anti’s glacial cold orbs bored deep into the Irishman’s soul, hissing harshly through his teeth.

“Why do they like you more than me?!” He demanded, fingers tightening around the bars.

Collecting himself and swallowing down any fear he held towards the creature, Jack straightened up and broadened his shoulders. He refused to show any fear or let Anti have the upper hand in this. He glared at the entity from the other side of the bars, his hands balling up into fists at his sides.

“Maybe it’s because I’m not a monster.” The Irishman seethed. “Maybe it’s because I’m not so desperate for attention that I’ve resorted to hurting or killing anyone. Maybe it’s because I actually have a heart and give a damn about the community as a whole as opposed to being a selfish asshole who only cares about their self.” He spat. “Whether they created you or not, it doesn’t matter. You have control over your actions – you can change your ways – and yet you decide not to. You instead choose to be a wretched monster that’s out to cause carnage and misfortunate for others.”

Jack took a few slow steps forward, his eyes never leaving the insidious being staring back at him. He shook his head, scowling at the demon with a look of disgust.

“You haven’t changed…and you never will.”

Anti felt a pang in his chest at hearing what his counterpart said. He growled in anger, his head twitching violently from left to right as a projection of himself flickered, one of him yanking viciously on his hair with his face scrunched up in frustration as opposed to agony. He cocked his head to the side in an unnatural way, reminiscent of the movement of a small bird’s own head. A layered inhuman giggle came bubbling out of his forever blood-gushing throat.

“You think I can change my ways? You honestly think I can change?” A terribly awful laugh erupted from him, succeeding in striking a descent amount of fear into his prisoner. He shook his head vigorously, a grin plastered on his face, even though it was plainly obvious he wasn’t happy. Admittedly, it unnerved the Irishman to a degree.

“Your ‘precious’ community holds the power over me. They are the ones who made me the way I am. I didn’t get a say in the matter! Hell, I didn’t ask to be made. I DiDn’T aSk tO Be GiVEn LiFe!” He unexpectedly lashed out, the grin vanishing from his face in an instant and an animalistic-looking grimace taking its place. His body seemed to stutter and lag for a moment before resuming its movement, twitching and glitching out every few seconds. It was evident the creature was having a hard time controlling his anger.

Jack jumped back in alarm, having not expected the sudden outburst. However, though it had momentarily startled him, the YouTuber still stood his ground. Before he could even think over the situation and come up with a calm and collected solution like he would normally do, he found himself consumed by an overwhelming wave of rage, and the next few words came flooding out of his mouth – words he would later regret ever saying.

“Well if you don’t want to be alive, then why don’t you kill yourself?!” He snapped, glaring daggers at the entity.

Another pang came from within the glitch’s chest, and this one hurt far more than the previous one.

“You keep complaining about how you were created and how everyone is ignoring you and not giving you attention. You’re like a child – a whiny brat who can’t get what they want when they want it, and it’s just sad.” The Irishman continued, not holding back. “You say that the community is responsible for you – that they’re the ones who created you and brought you into this world. And even though they’re essentially like your parents, they don’t seem to care about you.” He leaned forward. “Did it ever cross your mind that maybe the reason they don’t care about you is because of the way you came out?”

Yet again, another painful pang.

“Maybe you were meant to only be an idea, NOT an actual existing creature.” He hissed. “You’re like Frankenstein’s monster – you were pieced together from scratch. Maybe you were meant to come out differently, but instead, came out as this…this thing.” He said with such distaste, the entity visibly winced. Jack kept his eyes fixed on his alter ego, nothing but anger in his eyes, and yet...there was something else there also. Unfortunately, Anti was unable to see it.

“An abomination…That’s what you are.” The man shook his head slowly. “You’re an abomination…and nobody wants you.” His nostrils flared as he took in a sharp breath, trying to keep his hatred at bay. He scoffed. “You know…I’m known for being a reasonable guy. I like to think that I am caring, I can see the good in people, and that I can and will accept anyone for who they are, no matter what their race, gender, sexual orientation – I don’t give a fuck.” He spat. “And over the last two months, I had really thought that maybe – just maybe – that all of this would come to an end.” He was saying it with such sincerity, like he had genuinely hoped things would’ve changed. “That maybe there was some good in you, and you would let me go, and everything could go back to normal. I was willing to accept you for who you are, but now…”

He trailed off, bowing his head and glancing down at the concrete ground, shaking his head. “I was a fool for ever thinking that way…There is no good in you, I finally see that...” He lifted his head and locked eyes with Anti, tugging on his chains as he took a step forward. “You were never meant to exist, Anti. You’re a mistake, and THAT is why they don’t care about you. You weren’t planned. Get that through your head.”

A raw, dead silence came without welcome. The unhinged creature stood there, unblinking eyes staring directly at his host, but the anger he had been feeling – the countless questions that had been tormenting him – all of it seemed to dissipate at hearing what the green-haired man had to say. Never had the demon heard such cold, harsh words leave the man’s lips. Jack had always been known as a pure caring soul, one who rarely ever looked down on anyone unless there was an honest-to-God good enough reason. And for the last two months, the Irishman had tried to see past the glitch’s monstrous exterior. With each day, he had hoped and prayed for the day the demon would come into the room and release him, claiming it to be one big misunderstanding. But that day never came. Time and time again, Anti had been merciless and took great joy in taunting the YouTuber, not at all caring for his feelings. He thoroughly enjoyed seeing his prisoner in a helpless state. And as much as he wanted to believe otherwise, Jack finally opened his eyes to the truth: Anti was a monster and that’s all he’d ever be – there wasn’t an ounce of good in him.

Anti stood there unmoving, the glitchiness of his body faltering and ever so slightly managing to calm down a bit. It may have been hard to tell, but through Jack’s eyes, it almost appeared like the entity’s facial expression had dropped. His body may have been tense and he may have been gripping the bars tightly, but his eyes…there wasn’t a sliver of anger anymore, nor was there perplexity. Those feelings were gone, and in their place, something else took over – something much more haunting. His eyes seemed much darker, but not from the ugly emotions he’d been consumed by a moment ago.

No…this was something else entirely…

If the Irishman didn’t know better, he could’ve sworn he was staring into the eyes of a damaged creature. The body language may have made Anti give off the appearance of a deadly predator ready to go in for the kill, but his eyes were a different story. Jack felt like he was staring into the soul of a wounded animal, and for a brief moment, he almost pitied him.

Nevertheless, within seconds flat, the hurt he’d seen fogging up the demon’s onyx orbs cleared away and the fury he’d had before returned with a cruel vengeance; a feral growl crawling out of the creature’s throat. Anti shook his head, his form beginning to twitch and jerk violently once again. Versions of him flickered every few seconds, one or two of him grinning sadistically and cackling wildly.

“No…You’re wrong. They do care about me deep down – they must!” He unexpectedly giggled with an unnerving amount of glee. He shrugged, extending his arms out to either side. “Why else would they have created me?” He pointed an accusing finger out at the Irishman. “I know what you’re doing. You’re trying to test me – see if I have any ‘feelings’.” The abomination said it as though it was a repulsing concept. “Nice try there, Jackie but it ain’t going to work.” His body spasmed momentarily before he leaned forward, pressing his forehead against the bars of the cell. A horrible toothy grin spread from ear to ear across his face.

“Mark my words, Jackaboy, I’m going to prove you wrong about your ‘loving’ community.” He giggled darkly, lines of pixels scattering across his face at a blurring speed to reveal an expression of pure unadulterated hatred and loathing. His voice dropped an octave or two as he glared at his host.

“I’m going to give them a reminder of who’s really been around all this time. Then, and only then, will they open their eyes and see.” And without another word, he pushed himself away from the bars, whirled on his heel, and exited the room.

That had been back in early January.

Throughout January and February, the community’s creation continued to play the part of everyone’s favorite green bean; seamlessly pretending to be someone he wasn’t just to please his fans. However, it wasn’t until he began to play a horror game titled “Detention” when things began to take an unexpected turn of events. Unknowingly to the glitch, every couple of minutes into each video, the facecam would suddenly act out of sorts and someone would appear on screen for a second or two, most often looking directly at the camera with confusion, distress, or sometimes even fear. Unfortunately, Anti hadn’t found out about any of this until the videos had been uploaded and he was furious when he discovered what was going on. Without him knowing, Jack had been making energy-consuming attempts at trying to reach out to his audience and show them that he wasn’t the one in control. He was desperately trying to get the community’s attention, and though he succeeded, it only managed to raise a lot of questions amongst the fans. Glitches were associated with Anti, and thus, a majority of the fandom were convinced that Anti was coming back – even though, in truth, he had never left. No one could decipher whether the man shown in the glitches was Anti or Jack, and it was only frustrating both of the green-haired men.

Shortly after he had brought “Detention” to a close, Anti had gone and subjected his pathetic host to a relentless amount of pain. He had strangled him and beaten him into submission, all while venting out his unbridled rage until the man was a quivering mess at his feet, begging to be let go. It was at this point when Anti knew he had to take action, he had to do something to get the community’s attention back onto him – the REAL him. But how? What could he possibly do? It’d have to be bigger than what had happened on Halloween. Something that everyone could see, something that would never be forgotten, something –

And then it hit him like an oncoming truck: PAX. He knew that Jack attended the convention every year; taking the time to meet his fans in person and giving them all a time to remember. The next one was supposed to be coming up in three weeks, and it only made a grin come to the demon’s face. That was it – that’s how he’d get everyone’s attention once again. What better a way to give his makers a reminder than while at a live event?

Leading up to the weekend of PAX, the entity had gone through the trouble of putting together an introductory video for his panel. For the first minute or so of the video, he pretended to be Jack; welcoming everyone to the panel, only to then announce how he had an idea – a game – that he wanted to try out with the audience. He then proceeded to explain himself, stating how they were all going to record a message of sorts using a phone, a camera, or an iPad. The entire thing seemed innocent enough; there was no need to be suspicious of his behavior. Jack was the one speaking after all, and who wouldn’t trust the precious bean? Surely he had something exciting planned. Everything was going well until it wasn’t. The screen would start to glitch out, some of the audio would cut out or become laced with static – clear signs that something was very wrong and that “Jack” wasn’t so alone. And suddenly, the screen cut to black. A series of clips from Jack’s videos flew by one after another at blurring speed before falling back into darkness. And then there was a chuckle…an eerie, childish chuckle that could easily give anyone and everyone a reason to be scared.

The screen glitched out and there he was in all his glory, finally showing his true self and giving everyone a shock. No one would expect him to show up at the panel, and as such, his message would be heard loud and clear. Throughout the remainder of the video, the unstable demon seemed to be a bipolar mess; it was hard to determine what his exact feelings were. One second he’d have a cheeky toothy grin stretched across his sickly pale face, giggling like a lunatic, and the next his expression would be contorted into a godawful grimace of pure annoyance and rage, seething through his teeth and acting a tad threatening towards his audience. His behavior was…off.

He wasn’t like he had been back in October. In October, Anti had been happy and delighted with what he had done. Granted, he had let some of his caged up anger seep out, agitated with how long he had had to wait to be released, but nonetheless, the creature had been overjoyed. He was proud of himself for having done what his creators had wanted…or at least, that’s what he’d thought they had wanted. And now…it was almost like his happiness was being forced, that the smiles upon his face were completely fake and he was struggling to keep any anger from showing. But Anti, being the unhinged entity he was, failed.

“Look at you all – just sitting there! You all thought I was gone!” He scolded, his head undergoing a horrible spasm attack; glitching from left to right. He pointed his knife at the camera angrily before leaning forward, a toothy grin coming to his face as he ran his delicate fingertips over the edge of the knife. “Not worrying about anything.”

He appeared to both look and sound rather pleased, even the cackle of delight that bubbled out of him was unsettlingly cheery. And yet, with a quick glitch of the screen, he was lifting the knife up to his neck in a menacing way, baring his teeth. His neck twitched and jerked out as he smiled.

“You all thought I was gone.” His voice unexpectedly dropped an octave at the last word, an indication that he wasn’t as pleased as everyone was led to believe at first. “But I’ve been here this entire time,” There was the cheeky expression once again; outstretching his arms and acting much like a young child who had just shown their parents a drawing they had worked hard on, “keeping an eye on things.” His eyes flickered blacker than black for half a second, his voice once more dropping an octave. The way he had said those words, accompanied with his inky orbs staring coldly at his audience, was rather disconcerting. Especially given how that face kept alternating with a much different one – one of twisted satisfaction, the signature Cheshire smile etched onto his face.

“You stopped paying attention!” He seethed through his teeth, a sliver of his built up rage hanging off of each word. He was smiling, yet he was evidently very put off with the community’s decisions. “Well I hope you’re happy.” He said it almost sincerely, like he was genuinely hoping everyone was in fact happy with what they had done. “You found someone new! Threw me aside!” Immediately, the smile had vanished in the blink of an eye, a scowl now in its place. He even jabbed an accusing finger at the camera, making his point.

“You found someone to replace me!” And just as quick as it had appeared, the entity was yet again smiling brightly; his head giving a fierce jerk before he locked his eyes onto the camera. It was up for debate on who exactly the creature was talking about, but Anti definitely knew, and that someone was slowly but surely becoming a weakened broken man behind a set of warm steel bars. Someone he absolutely loathed with every fiber of his being.

“I’m not going anywhere!” The abomination chirped, his voice reaching a higher pitch, nearly sounding like a giggle. His form glitched out to show him constantly moving back and forth in an unnatural way, like the creature was stuck in a state of limbo. “I’m always there – always watching.” He said it in both a teasing and threatening manner, his eyes cloaked in darkness as he raised his knife. He was going to make sure that every single one of them would remember he was there and how he was never going to leave – never.

It was around this point that if anyone listened closely, a very faint muffled “help me” could be heard, reminiscent of the one in the “Say Goodbye” video. However, unlike that one – which had been gushing with panic and horror – this one was the exact opposite. It sounded devoid of energy and hope, like the man who was calling out for help had been tortured relentlessly and was losing the battle. It almost sounded like the poor man was sobbing, desperate for someone to notice he was there. A sinister cackle followed his plea; the insidious monster sounding far too pleased with how helpless his prisoner was.

“You can’t get rid of me.” Anti growled menacingly, directing his knife towards the camera threateningly. His form began to spastically glitch out, shaking from the struggle he was having containing his anger. And with that, the screen blacked out. “Enjoy the show.”

When PAX came around – March 10th, to be exact – and the entity got to show the video, he watched from afar, hearing everyone’s alarmed reactions towards his unannounced appearance. He covered his mouth, having a hard time holding back his laughter. Good, they were finally coming to their senses and remembering he was still around. For the remainder of the event, however, Anti refused to let everyone know he was the one wearing Jack’s meatsuit. Because as much as he wanted to reveal the truth, he could hear Jack’s haunting words swirling in the back of his head, reminding him how everyone only thought he was an idea, not an actual existing creature. If he were to show his true self, there was no telling what would happen, so he decided to keep a low profile and slip back into the character of Jacksepticeye.

Everything seemed to be going well for some time in the community. For the rest of the month leading into April, all they could talk about was PAX and of how the glitching demon had unexpectedly shown up to the event, giving them a reminder he was always there, watching them. And of course, through this, Anti grew happy at receiving more attention. He was so thrilled, he was overcome with the temptation to go up to his host and rub in his face about just how wrong he had been. But unfortunately for the entity, the contentment was short-lived.

Just like what had happened back when he had shown himself on Halloween, Anti only received a vast amount of attention for a month or two before everything died down and he was pushed aside as a “one-time thing”. This time around was much different. While many were trying to decipher his message and who had been in control all this time, others were growing tired of the glitch. They seemed a tad bit annoyed, like he was a nuisance, which made Anti confused more than anything. Why were they all suddenly turning their backs on him? Any one of the other egos could show their faces and everyone would be smiling and laughing, pleased to see them. But if he showed his face, he got the opposite greeting. Everyone would either quiver in fear, snap at him to “fuck off and leave Jack alone”, or roll their eyes and huff an exasperated breath, not impressed. Admittedly, there were quite a lot of people who did in fact love the glitch and were always happy to see him, but Anti failed to see that; a crimson haze casted over his vision, only allowing him to notice the people who resented him.

The twitchy manifestation was at a loss for words. He couldn’t come up with a logical reason as to why so many people spited him. What could he have possibly been doing wrong? All he wanted was to be included into the circle, all he wanted was to be seen as an equal and loved and adored like all of the other egos who stood in his way. How come they got more attention than him? They didn’t get any more videos than he did, and yet, somehow, someway, they all received an insane amount of adoration. But with him – one glitch of the screen and the entire fandom would explode with every emotion except for one he longed for: love. And the demon wouldn’t admit it but it hurt him more than anything; more than any physical harm he could do to himself.

Sometime during May, Anti had isolated himself in a far off room in the void. He locked himself in the pitch-black room, pacing back and forth; tormenting himself relentlessly with what Jack had spat at him and whether any of his words had been true or not. He questioned himself over and over again about what he was doing wrong and why the community couldn’t accept him the way he was. He clutched his head, scrunching up his hair in his fingers and tugging harshly as he growled lowly out of frustration. His body was in a constant state of manifesting itself in and out of existence; jerking and pixelating, distorting all of his features.

“What am I doing wrong? What’s so special about all of those other fuckers? What do they have that I don’t?” He snarled venomously, his form lagging mid-step before resuming movement. “I thought they wanted me to be a real thing, I thought they wanted me to come into existence. Isn’t that what they wanted? But if that’s what they wanted, then why are they all dismissing me with ease, like I don’t exist? Why are they ignoring me?!” He huffed, his unnecessary breathing increasing in rate. He was beginning to sound rather exasperated, and if anyone could believe it, like he was a bit emotionally hurt.

“They’re my parents, for fuck sake! They made me who I am – why would they make me like this if they knew it would displease them?! What kind of sick joke is this?!” He flared, his figure glitching out to briefly show a projection of him strangling himself, the next of him cutting his already bleeding throat. He threw his arms out to either side. “I’m doing everything I can! Am I trying too hard? Am I not trying hard enough? There’s no pleasing those people!” A stuttering breath left his lips, his head giving a harsh jerk to the left; a loud audible crack coming from his neck. He was beginning to shake all over now, and it wasn’t from how unstable his form was.

“They’re…They’re supposed to love me…” He muttered under his breath, bringing his pacing to a halt in the middle of the black room. He stared down at the ground, shaking his head only to release a small giggle of disbelief. “But they don’t love me…They don’t love me at all.”

For three whole hours, the glitchy entity remained in that room, putting himself through a horrendous amount of mental agony. Pacing back and forth and glitching out from one part of the room to the next, the demon wallowed in his pain. He ended up collapsing to his knees, hanging his head in shame and burying his face in his hands. Icy cool droplets filled his dark eyes and ran down his cheeks, dripping down into his hands and leaking out through his fingers. No one would ever see this side of the creature – sadness and emotional pain such as this weren’t normal for the demon. He saw it as weakness, and as such, he would never show it. He would never admit to the heart-devouring pain he’d endure every single day caused by the community. He always stood up straight, put on a devious smile, laughed like a psychopath, and demonstrated the behavior of one too. He always came off as a merciless, deranged, inhuman abomination that felt no remorse or guilt. He was essentially heartless; he didn’t give a shit about anyone but himself. As far as anyone was concerned, he took great joy in seeing others suffer. Love wasn’t a concept he could understand – it was something he could NEVER learn.

But they were all wrong. Every single one of them was wrong about him. He DID have a heart, he DID care about what others thought of him. He DID want to be loved by not just the community but Jack and the egos as well. And yet, here he was, coming to terms with just how much he was hated by his so-called “family”.

Anti sat down in the furthest corner of the room, knees brought in close to his chest as he tugged at his hair; endless tears of hurt cascading down his face. Jack’s assumption had been right before – he had been looking at a wounded animal. The poor creature couldn’t pull himself together. He had been made to be unstable, and as such, any emotion he would feel, would become impossibly heightened to the tenth degree. There was no easy way out of this hell he was putting himself through, there was no way for him to calm down. He just sat there, letting the darkness consume him and allowing the sorrow to rip away at his heart horrifically.

As though he were a broken record, Anti scolded himself, repeatedly asking himself what was wrong with him as opposed to what was wrong with the community. Maybe Jack had been right, maybe he was a mistake. Maybe he shouldn’t have existed to begin with. Maybe the community did only like him as an idea versus as an actual existing entity. No one loved him, no one cared about him. He was just there as a joke for everyone to do with as they pleased. He was like a puppet having his strings tugged at, playing a part in their deceiving game. And the poor damaged manifestation was getting pulled apart at the seams at the thought.

This is what they had done to him.

They had cut out his heart and forced it down his throat.

He was dead inside.

* * * * *

There he stood, hovering over his patient, lost in a state of memory. His hellish eyes, which had been clouded over with rage and hatred a second ago, now held pain and suffering. Those eyes were the eyes of a creature that had been beaten and abused horribly countless times over – the eyes of someone who had been through hell and back. And for a fleeting moment, it almost seemed like those eyes were beginning to water.

“Those fuckers…They ruined me.” He hissed softly under his breath, his fingers tightening around the orbitoclast currently wedged into his patient’s skull. He shook his head slightly, eyes unblinking. He was looking down at the man like he was expecting him to be sympathetic towards him. “All I ever wanted was to be loved…Was that so much to ask for? Was it that hard of a concept to grasp?” His voice was wavering, sounding like he was on the very verge of crying.

However, at hearing his patient let out a pained moan, Anti blinked and removed himself from his dreary reverie; the unhinged monster within returning to the surface. He smirked behind his mask.

“Nevertheless, who needs love? It’s overrated. Ain’t that right, Doctor?” He giggled as he twisted the steel instrument around, getting the man to produce yet another moan of unwanted agony. “You of all people should know that, what with how your pathetic family left you.” He scoffed. “Who needs them? They abandoned you! If they truly loved you, they wouldn’t have left, now would they?” He gave the orbitoclast a violent tab, a spurt of blood flying up into his face. His patient arched and let out a choked yelp at the searing pain. The demon’s smirk developed into a smile. “You should never hurt the ones you love…Never.”

His patient went placid against the table, no longer moving or making useless attempts at escape. Anti noticed and chuckled, lightly slapping the bloodied man’s face to try and get a reaction out of him. All he received was a drawn out wheezing breath. Chuckling lightly, the sadistic creature tore his mask away from his face and tore the orbitoclast out of the man’s skull carelessly, not at all concerned whether or not he managed to damage something else. His patient jolted and groaned loudly, but didn’t struggle against his bonds or scream from the striking pain. Anti threw the ice pick off to the side somewhere before strolling away from the table, ridding himself of his surgical attire as he headed for the exit.

“Don’t get up, Doc. I’ll be back in a minute.” He said as he stormed out of the operating room. As soon as he left, his smile faltered. “I need to visit your creator.”

* * * * *

Back within the freezing cold hell, the green-haired Irishman was a shivering mess. He was on his knees where he had been standing not too long ago when he had yelled at Anti. His face was buried in his shredded up, blood-caked hands, crying out of fear for not just himself but of what Anti had done. Why had he left the room? He had said he was going to visit the doctor, and immediately, possible scenarios of gut-wrenching horror flooded the YouTuber’s head. What was Anti doing to Henrik? Was he torturing him? Was he getting him to do something completely obscene and wrong? Was he killing him? Jack choked on a sob at that last one.

The man nearly jumped out of his skin when he heard the front door burst open; lifting his head hesitantly to see his alter ego storm into the room. Before he knew what he was doing, Jack got to his feet and grasped the icy bars of the cell.

“What did you do?!” He wailed, loose tears running down his face. “What did you do?!” He repeated, both demanding and dreading an answer.

Anti frowned from where he stood, eyes fixed onto his prisoner. His arms flung out to either side of him. “I did what was necessary!” He snapped sharply, a bit put off with the Irishman’s whining.

He took a few steps forward, boring his dark soulless orbs into the crippled YouTuber. His body glitched out, his head jerking violently to the right; the slit across his throat seeming to stretch further at the motion.

“I did what I had to do!”

He materialized, suddenly now having his back facing Jack. He pulled up his shirt, and while biting deeply into his bottom lip and letting loose a pained hiss, the skin of his back pixelated and was pulled back, revealing his spine to his host. There was crimson blood everywhere accompanied with some sort of sticky black sludge. There were veins and bits and pieces of his insides here and there that appeared as though they had had something severed from them; evident due to the holes scattered about and how some veins hadn’t been sealed off properly. All along his spine there were dark splotches and some kind of green residue there, almost as if something had once been attached to the creature’s spine.

Jack flung away from the bars and nearly screamed, a wave of nausea crashing over him and knocking the wind out of him. He stumbled backward and instantly collapsed to his knees, keeling over as bile rose in his throat. He couldn’t hold back. He heaved violently and vomited, the sight of Anti’s insides far too revolting for him to stomach.

“Your ‘precious’ community made me do this, Jack.” The demented entity hissed with distaste. “They were always pulling the strings, ALWAYS the ones to twist and shape me however they pleased.” He scoffed, a giggle ringing out of his vocal cords as though this was all some fucked up joke to him. “They made me a joke. They dragged me along in their game, and I HAD ENOUGH!” He growled momentarily before the abnormally delighted smile returned to the creature’s paled face. “So…I got the ‘good doctah’ to sever the strings once and for all.” He cackled, shaking his head as his back closed back up and he lowered his shirt.

The Irishman raised his head, breathing heavily and having difficulty getting air into his lungs. His eyes were blown wide with horror, staring at his counterpart with disbelief like he couldn’t believe what the creature was saying.

“Oh my God, Anti, why?! Why?! Why would you - ?!” He got cut off, nearly choking on the left over bile in his throat. He groaned and hacked harshly, spitting it up. He sobbed softly and shook his head vigorously, fixing his lifeless eyes onto the demon. “You didn’t have to do that! Why the hell would you do that to yourself?!” He cried, like he wasn’t just horrified of what he’d discovered but also like he genuinely cared about the demonic entity’s wellbeing. “Why the FUCK would you mutilate your body – why would you go through something like that?!”

Anti slowly turned around to face him, no evidence of there having been a smile on his face a moment ago. He no longer looked amused or happy; there was nothing but anger and hate written in his eyes. His form was struggling to remain stable now, lines of static racing across his body here and there; jerking from left to right as he took a step towards the cage. He cocked his head and scoffed, like he couldn’t believe he had just heard the green-haired man ask him such a stupid question.

“You think I wanted this?” He asked in such a soft static-laced voice, it managed to send chills up Jack’s spine. “You think I really wanted to do this – that I wanted to have the one thing that made me who I am, the one crucial part of my being, torn out of my body without care like it didn’t matter?” He inquired, although the way he was phrasing the question didn’t sound like a question. It sounded as though he expected Jack to already know the answer. He shook his head slowly, staring at the Irishman with slight shock.

“I did what had to be done and I don’t regret it.” He spat, even though his words came out a bit off, like he wasn’t telling the truth. “They can’t control me anymore.” He jolted forward, pressing his face into the bars of the cell. “I’m not their bitch, they’re mine. They are all my puppets now…and we’ll see how much they like to be strung about in a twisted game of pain and suffering.” His face glitched out, very briefly showing a different version of him, except this one was unlike any of the others Jack had seen before. Every time Anti’s form would become distorted, Jack would always see projections of him either displaying violent behavior or he’d be a terrifying laughing lunatic. But this time…there was none of that.

There was no uncontrollable anger, no frustration, no unsettling glee accompanied with chilling giggles.

There was only sadness, a look of hurt on his face as though he had been horribly beaten and was now a cowering mess. And though it had happened at a blurring speed, Jack could’ve sworn he had seen tears well up in the creature’s eyes.

Jack’s eyes widened ever so slightly, remembering how earlier he had seen Anti in a similar vulnerable state – something he had never once seen come from the glitch before. Licking his cracked lips and letting out a raspy wheezing breath, the Irishman tried to talk some sense into the entity.

“Anti…D-Don’t…” He coughed harshly, a few drops of blood spluttering forth. He shook his head. “Y-You don’t want to do this…You…You’re wrong…about them.” He inhaled sharply, groaning as he felt a stinging pain in his chest. He hunched over and shifted around, attempting to get into a comfortable position. “Y-You…You don’t know them like I do.”

Anti kept his abyssal orbs locked on the Irishman, never once leaving his face. There was no telling what was going through the manifestation’s head; his expression was unreadable. One moment it looked like he was pissed off, the next it seemed flat like he didn’t care at all. He scoffed, the corner of his lips tugging up into a slight smirk that only lasted for half a second.

“No, you’re right. You’re right, I don’t know them like you do.” His head gave a violent jerk to the right, a loud crack emitting from his slashed neck. He bored his eyes into his prisoner, anger becoming the more dominant emotion now. “Because you’ve been strung along in their deceiving game. All this time, you’ve been led into believing that they care about you – that they care about any of us, for that matter – and because of it, you’ve been holding onto false hope for the day they save your ass.” He seethed, his words striking deep into the man’s heart.

“You need to wake up and realize they’re never going to save you, they are NEVER going to help you. They are the true monster in all of this. They all put on an innocent act and like they’re not at fault. But they are the ones to blame! They caused ALL of this to happen!” He unexpectedly slammed his hands against the bars, making Jack flinch and shuffle backward. The demon’s eyes became drenched in black, heavy shaky breaths of anger puffing out through his lips. “They don’t give a FUCK about any one of us, and it’s not until now that I’ve come to realize this.”

Jack shook his head in disagreement. “No…N-No, y-you’re wrong…Y-You’re mistaken, A-Anti…” He insisted, shivering from the cold. The room had gotten so cold, he could now see his own breath. Funnily enough, even though Anti was breathing, his breath wasn’t visible. The Irishman found it to be a rather odd observation. “Th-They do care. A-About me, about th-the others, and…a-and about you too.”

At hearing this, the glitch couldn’t contain his mirth and threw his head back, letting out a horrific laugh of delight. He locked his eyes back onto his host, a toothy grin on his cruel face, clearly not believing the man.

“Is that so?” He chuckled lightly. “Do you remember what you had said to me long ago, back in January?...Do you remember?” His grin was slowly but surely slipping away, fading down to a smile, then into what almost looked like a pained scowl. “Do you remember?” He softly whispered through the bars. “Do you remember what you said to me?” His voice, it sounded…strained, like he was struggling to breathe properly or something.

Jack’s brows weaved out of confusion, trying to recall what the demon was talking about. This damned room, he could barely think clearly. For Christ’s sake, he had had so much difficulty remembering what had happened in October. How was he supposed to remember what – ?

And then it all came at him full-force with no warning. Suddenly, the Irishman was able to notice the pain behind the creature’s fury, and his facial expression softened as he felt an overwhelming amount of guilt coil around his fist-sized organ of innocence and constrict it tightly. He began to feel tears returning to the surface, welling up in his eyes as he tore his gaze away from his alter ego. Anti groaned and pulled away from the bars.

“Oh for fuck sake, enough with the crying already! It’s getting to be annoying.” He bemoaned. “Come on, I haven’t even hurt you yet! What could you be possibly crying about now?!”

Jack kept his head low in shame, shaking it as the tears threatened to tip over the edge.

“I…I-I…I’m sorry…” He whispered so softly, it could barely be heard. He swallowed the lump in his throat and sobbed, shaking his head as he closed his eyes, a look of pain coming upon his face. “I-I’m so sorry…I…O-Oh God…” He lifted his hands, covering his face as he cried.

Anti frowned. Normally he’d be amused at seeing his prisoner so broken up like this, but not today. He was in absolutely no mood for waterworks.

“Sorry? What the fuck are you babbling on about?” He banged against the bars. “Come on, speak up!” He snapped with annoyance.

The green-haired man gulped in what little air he could as he pulled his soaked hands away from his face, reopening his eyes.

“I…I-I’m so s-sorry, I…” He sniffled. “I-I had no…i-idea that you…” He stopped himself, taking a breather to try and calm his nerves. It didn’t work out as well as he had hoped. He shook his head in disbelief as the memories tormented him. “Th-Those words…Th-Those things I had said, Jesus Christ…” He shut his eyes tightly, pinching the bridge of his nose and cringing at the reminder. He bit his lip, trying so very hard to stop himself from crying. His bottom lip trembled as he struggled to speak. “I…I thought…I thought you were heartless…I-I th-thought that…that there was n-no good in you at all…I…I figured y-you were a…a…”

“A monster?” Anti answered so harshly, his body rippled violently.

Jack tensed up at the word and he immediately lifted his head to lock eyes with the demon. Wet lines of sorrow stained his cheeks and his eyes were red, sore from the countless times he had cried. He shook his head slowly, still shell-shocked by the haunting memory.

“I-I’m s-so sorry…I-I don’t know w-why I said th-those things…” He sniffled and nervously chuckled out of disbelief, like this had to be some sick joke of sorts. “I-I didn’t mean any of it…I…I-I didn’t know, I swear to God, I d-didn’t…” He sobbed, a few lone tears running down his face. “I w-was wrong about you, Anti…I-I was so wrong…I…” He swallowed his tears. “I-I was so blind to see that…that the one who truly n-needed help…th-the one who n-needed love…” He looked up at the creature with pleading eyes, hoping like hell that he believed his words, because none of them were lies. He was telling the honest-to-God truth, and it was ripping him apart. “w-was you…Th-That’s all y-you’ve ever wanted…Y-You’ve w-wanted t-to be a part of s-something…a-and w-we have f-failed you…” He cried, shaking all over not from just the cold but from the force of his crying. “I…I-I’m so sorry, Anti.” He whispered softly.

The unhinged abomination glitched out for a moment, standing there with his gaze fixed onto the quivering mess of a man named Jack. Like before, his face was unreadable. Jack couldn’t tell if he was enraged, annoyed, amused, happy, or something else entirely. For a split second, when the entity went to stand up straight, the Irishman had winced and whimpered, raising his arms to brace himself for any sort of act of violence. But nothing came. Instead, he heard the creature let out a shaken breath.

“I knew it…I knew this would happen.”

Blinking with confusion, the YouTuber lowered his arms just enough to glance up at the demon.

“You’re just as bad as them.” He hissed, his entire body glitching out to show a projection of himself crying out in anguish. “You don’t care – you didn’t before, and you still don’t. All of this,” He motioned at the man crying his eyes out in the cold dank cell, “is just an act, just an excuse – an attempt to try and win me over so I can release you from this hell. Well guess what? It’s not going to work, so drop the act. I’ve had enough of the lies from everyone.” He growled with such hatred, his head stuttered and twitched from left to right, struggling to keep his anger at bay.

Jack blinked, frowning with perplexity. “W-What? No…N-No, no, no. Y-You…” He coughed violently, “y-you think - ?” He shook his head, pushing himself up into a standing position and nearly falling over. He quickly steadied himself against the prison bars, his eyelids slipping shut tiredly before reopening them to look at the entity. “Th-This…This isn’t an a-act…” He coughed again, hacking harshly into one of his bloodied palms. “I-I am t-truly sorry, An-Anti…a-and…a-and the c-community…i-if they are th-the ones who…who c-created you…th-then they do care.”

Anti growled. “Lies.”

“N-No…No, I-I know them…I-I know w-what they’re like…a-and…” He sucked in a breath, choking on it and heaving into his hand dryly. “u-ugh….mmgh…” He winced before standing up as straight as he could. “t-they do care…Th-Those jokes th-they make a-about you…” He shook his head, “th-they’re just jokes, th-that’s all…I-It’s what th-they do. H-Hell,” He scoffed, “th-they’ve m-made jokes about m-me and…and the others b-before…” He shrugged, licking at the tears that ran over his lips. “I-It’s j-just their w-way of showing th-their appreciation – th-their l-love.”

He coughed violently, nearly collapsing to the ground at the force of his coughing. He groaned in pain, his legs wobbling as he struggled to remain standing. He looked at Anti with exhaustion.

“P-Please…B-Believe me…Th-They d-don’t h-hate you, Anti…” He insisted in a pleading tone of voice, a lone tear running down his cheek. He shook his head. “N-No…No one has to get hurt…Y-You c-can…can be happy and l-loved…l-like you were m-meant to be.” He said weakly before sliding down to the ground with a thud, letting out a weak moan.

Through the dark, though his eyes had fallen shut for a brief moment, the Irishman made out a very faint sob. His eyelids were heavy with the longing to stay shut, but he forced them open to see the glitch’s face contorted into one of frustration. There was anger, hatred, and…and sorrow. There was pain – heart-aching pain, tears welling up in the hurt creature’s darkened eyes. His grip on the bars of the cell was so tight, Jack was almost afraid he was going to break them and charge into the cage to slaughter him. Lucky for him, that didn’t happen. His entire body was visibly shaking and not just from how he was glitching out constantly every few seconds. It almost seemed like the poor creature was fighting himself, like he was holding back on something. His bottom lip was trembling as he struggled to keep himself from showing weakness.

“R-Really?...Is that so?” The demon stuttered in a static-laced voice. And though he sounded beyond furious, he couldn’t hide the truth from the Irishman. He was hurting, and it was showing as clear as day. “Y-You think they all care?” A small sad smirk tugged at his lips as he outstretched a hand behind him. “Th-Then how do you explain these?” And with a snap of his fingers, a patch of darkness dissolved to show endless posts on Tumblr, YouTube, Instagram, and Twitter.

Jack squinted, dragging himself forward in a poor attempt to see well. His eyes widened a tad bit when he realized what each one was about. Every one of the posts was hateful and overly mean towards the glitch, and none of them were in a joking manner, even Jack himself could tell.

“Fuck off, Anti! Leave Jack and the egos alone!”

“Go away! We don’t want you here!”

“Look at him – he’s having a temper tantrum. He’s not scary, he’s just complaining about what he can’t have.”

“You people do realize this is all just an act, right? Anti’s not real, get over it.”

“Anti, why the hell are you here?”

“We need to get rid of Anti, guys! It’s the only way we’ll get Jack back! Who’s with me?!”

“Anti, it’s not Halloween yet! Go back to sleep!”

“Glitch Bitch!”

Every single comment or post was either making fun of the glitching entity or just straight up being hurtful in the worst way imaginable, such as telling him to go away and that he wasn’t wanted – that no one wanted to see him. No one knew it, but every one of the posts hurt the creature to a horrible extent, and Jack couldn’t blame him. He stared at the screen with appalment. These couldn’t be from his community, there was no way. He knew his fans and they were most certainly not this cruel – not towards him or the other egos, at least. And if Anti was their creation, then why the hell would they treat him worse than dirt?

Jack didn’t know what to say, and Anti could tell. He scoffed, the sad smirk still upon his face.

“Y-You see? You c-can’t even defend th-them.” He lowered his arm as the screen materialized, gone forever. “Th-They don’t care about me…I-I’ve always been j-just a nuisance to them – a-an object for th-them to toy with.” His form spastically glitched out all of sudden, a projection of him lurching forth; tugging at his head and bawling his eyes out, screaming out in pain. Jack gasped softly, pressing back into the bars behind him. Anti jerked his head. “I-I…I will n-never be loved…b-because th-that’s not the reason w-why I-I was m-made.”

The Irishman’s eyes widened with surprise as he watched Anti blink, a lone tear finally falling loose and running down the demon’s cheek. His bottom lip trembled more, having little to no control over his emotions anymore. Another tear fell from his eye.

“Th-They d-didn’t make me…b-because they w-wanted a s-son…T-They made me b-because…th-they wanted a m-monster…” He sobbed softly, his entire form vibrating and giving a violent glitch. And though his body was unstable, the creature’s voice remained rather quiet, like a murmur. He almost sounded human.

“Th-They w-want…a v-villain...th-that they can h-hate and f-fear…Th-That’s all they’ve ever w-wanted…f-from the start.” He shook fiercely, anger starting to come back with a vengeance; his voice becoming much harsher and more distorted. “S-So…if th-that’s what they w-want…i-if that’s w-what’ll please them…” He chuckled lightly, another cool tear racing down his face. His sad smirk morphed into a twisted ugly smile. “Th-Then that’s w-what I’ll give them.” He shook his head vigorously, licking at the salty tears over his lips. “N-No more…L-Love is t-truly dead…” He cackled. “F-Fear…” He hummed with bemusement, “is w-what’ll get th-there attention…p-permanently.”

He pushed himself away from the bars and growled at himself, roughly wiping his eyes free of any more tears before turning on his heel to storm for the exit. Jack almost immediately scrambled to his feet, gripping onto the bars for dear life so he wouldn’t collapse again.

“W-Wait, wait, wait!” He croaked hoarsely, barely having any voice left in him. He reached his arm out through the cell, hoping Anti wouldn’t leave. There was no telling what the demon would do once he left. Hell, Jack still didn’t even know what Henrik’s fate had been!

“An-Anti, please!” He coughed dryly, his shoulders shaking. He was beginning to fall incredibly weak again, his eyes feeling heavy with exhaustion and the temperature of the room was only making it worse. “D-Don’t…” He gave one last attempt, one last plea before his knees gave out; collapsing to the ground and passing out cold.

Anti didn’t bother to look over his shoulder at the Irishman. He didn’t even retort back with a snarky taunting remark of sorts, the closest thing being, “Now if you’ll excuse me, I have some unfinished business to attend to.”

He wasn’t his usual self, and Jack had seen it with his own two eyes. It had been a long while since the entity had had a chance to vent out these painful emotions, but he had no time to lock himself away.

No…He couldn’t lock himself away…

But he could take his hurt out on someone else…

Part 9 - No Strings Attached

Part 11 - In Your Head

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