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Chapter Text

David sighed as he adjusted in his bedsheets. Try as he might (and trust him, he had been!), he could not sleep. He had so many thoughts racing through his mind that he just couldn't seem to calm. David decided that he should take a walk to clear his mind, and hopefully tire him out a little bit as well. 

“Where are you going, man?” Gwen asks, looking up from her book, flashlight in hand. “Do you need anything?”

“No, I’m good, I’m gonna go for a walk for a minute.” David thinks about the next words out of his mouth carefully, “I-I need a minute to clear my mind.”

“Don’t die!” She smiles affectionately, “But seriously, if you need to talk don’t hesitate.”

“Thanks, Gwen.” The red-head grins grins.

David stepped through the door of the councilor's cabin and began to feel his mind unwinding. He felt a lot more at peace now that he was surrounded by nothing but nature. David started to walk the trail that led off the side of the camp. He knew this like the back of his hand, even with the dark veil of night. 

As David walked towards the summit of the hill, he heard something faint in the distance. The counselor strained his ears to hear what it was. After a couple seconds of intense thinking it clicked. Retching . 

Wait, what?! -Who? David internally started panicking. His councilor instincts kicked in and he started moving in the direction of the sound. He tried to assure himself that he must have misheard the noise ( who would be vomiting in the woods in the middle of the night after all? ), but all hope dissipated when he saw the outline of two people hunched over onto the ground. Not just any two people, two of his campers. Max and Harrison.

“David?!” Max exclaimed in surprise, though his face quickly turned angry in confusion. “What the fuck are you doing out here in the middle of the night?!”

“I could say the same about you! Are you boys okay?! I was going for a walk to clear my mind and-” He was cut off temporarily by Harrison doubling over and vomiting again. 

“It’s okay, Harrison. I got you.” Max assured, rubbing circles on the other boy’s shaking back.

“What happened?” David asked with a firm and serious tone, though his confusion and fear were evident in his voice. He walked over to the two before Max held a hand out in front of him, signaling David to stop.

“I’ve got this covered.” Max responded, a spaced-out Harrison draped over his lap. The latter’s eyes were wide with fear.

A horrific smell filled David's nostrils, a mix of liquor and stomach acid. It hit David at that moment. “Oh my god. Is Harrison…?” He began to trail off, before Max finished the statement for him.

“Drunk? Obviously dumbass.” Max sighed, pinching his temples. “Look, I found him like this. I didn’t want to leave him here since it’s the middle of the night, and he’s clearly not in a good state of mind…” He shook his head. “That’s not the point. Why don’t you go run along to whatever dumbass thing you were doing before and forget you saw all of this. Seriously. If you tell fucking anyone about this I will kill you.”

David sighed, rubbing his eyes. He needed to stay strong in this moment. “Listen boys, how about I bring you two back to the counselor's cabin so you can get some sleep? It's freezing out here, and I don’t want either of you getting sick.” 

“Fine. But only if I can watch Scream on your TV.” Max scoffs, and David reluctantly agrees. Harrison flinches up suddenly and Max frowns.

“‘M sorry. I won’...I’ll be,” He hiccups. “Be better…” Harrison slurs, eyes full of fear and exhaustion. Max softly shushes Harrison.

“Listen, we'll talk about this in the morning boys. You both look exhausted.” David recognized the panic attack the magician was having. A quick glance at his watch told him it was 12:31. “Max, you go back to the cabin. Gwen is still up. I’ll get Harrison.”

Max nods, reluctantly, biting his lip. The boy starts to scurry off, looking back for a second nod of confirmation, receives it, and then disappears into the forest. 

David took Harrison in his arms and carried the boy down the trail despite his tired protests. He was suspiciously light for a 14 year old boy. It was apparent Harrison wasn’t all there, but David didn’t mind. The alarm bells of abuse were already going off in his mind, but he would have to figure this out with Harrison tomorrow morning. 

“David?” Harrison wheezes in his arms, “Are you mad at me?”

“Not at all, Harrison. Not at all.” 

The boy relaxes, and drifts off in his arms.

David sighed. What was he gonna do?

Chapter Text

It was a rough night. 

David had a lot of trouble trying to sort his thoughts out after, well, everything. He didn't know really what to think, let alone how to approach the situation. Harrison luckily slept well enough, and the small victories were what David was taking here.

Explaining this disaster of a night to his co-counselor Gwen was even worse. David was certain he was the worst counselor in the world letting one of his campers suffer alone like this, even if Gwen promised David he wasn't. David was happy that Gwen seemed to fill in a lot of the blanks on her own, so that he didn't have to. Frankly, he wasn't sure he had enough answers to do so anyways. 

"David?" Max tugged at the sleeping red-head's shirt. David had taken to laying on the floor, opting to give Harrison the bed, and letting Max have the couch. 

"Mm?" David woke sleepily. He was exhausted. David hadn't felt this tired since the incident in the forest earlier this summer. "What's up, Max?" It was still dark outside, so David assumed it was still late in the night. A quick glance at his watch confirmed this. 4:31 am. The camp activities usually began at 7:00, with him waking up 30 minutes before that to get ready. It was strange though that Max was up this early. The green-eyed boy was notorious for sleeping in. 

"I-" Max began, before adding, "But don't fucking tell anyone this, you dumbass!" 

"I won't, Max." David rubbed his eyes, while smiling warmly. "What's bothering you?"

"I...had a nightmare." Max huffed, "It's probably stupid, but I can't fall back asleep."

David frowned, contemplating what to do next. The red-head had had his fair share of those in the past. "Do you want to talk about it, Max?"

"I dunno," He responded, truthfully, "I need to think about it first."

"Okay, Max." David ruffled his hair affectionately. "Do you wanna get some fresh air? I know that always helps me when I can't sleep."

"We don't all love the outdoors as much as you, Camp Man-" Max began, "You know what, scratch that. Can we go for a drive? I like driving around."

"Sure, Max." David musters up enough energy to smile again, before the two made their way towards David's car.

Hearing the engine of the car rev up was enough to scare Max out of his thoughts. He wasn't so sure this was a good idea anymore. Being alone with adults always scared him shitless, and to make it worse he would have no means of escape. Plus, he would probably have to talk about his feelings, and something about that felt so invasive. Like he was a fascinating new test subject or something like that. 

"David," Max was about to protest but decided against it. He had already woken up David and dragged him to his car, the last thing he wanted to do was go back on that when he had already had the camp counselor do so much for him. He felt guilty to say the least. Stupid feelings making Max feel things.

"Yes, Max?"

"Nevermind." 

The two drove in silence for most of the ride before Max felt the hot tears begin to slip down his face. David acknowledged this and pulled into the parking lot of a gas station in Sleepy Peak. He showed Max his hands before asking if he wanted a hug, as to not alarm him. Max clung to the man like a life vest.

"I- I don't wanna go home, David!" Max croaked through sobs, "My parents don't care, and everyone here at camp is so nice and it just feels so nice!"

David let out a sad sigh. He felt bad for the boy. If David had a say in the matter, he would snatch Max right away from those assholes. 

That's actually not a bad idea! David mused. Maybe he could grab Harrison up too while he's at it, he despised the magic boy's parents with his heart and soul.

"I had a nightmare about them. I don't want to talk about it though, I just thought you should know." Max sniffed.

"You don't have to talk about anything you don't want to." David hummed. "I'm glad you feel safe and happy here at camp, I wish you felt this way at home too. If I ever see those asses in person-"

Max giggled. "I wish I could just stay with you and Gwen and everyone all year." He continued more melancholy. 

David hummed again. "I'm sure we could figure something out."

The sun came up.

Chapter Text

Harrison woke up blearily. He couldn't remember anything that had happened the previous night, and considering the fact he woke up in the counselor's cabin, he wasn't sure he wanted to.

The illusionist was always a morning person, so the fact that no one was in the room with him was mildly concerning. Just how late had he slept in?

Harrison sat up quickly and instantly regretted doing so. An awful pain shot through his temples and a horrible throbbing sensation settled into the left side of his head. Cursing loudly, he steadied himself to stand up, the world spinning fast around him. Harrison swallowed the minor urge to vomit as the dizziness ceased, and made his way towards his tent to find some Extra Strength Tylenol he had stashed under his bed. He was a really bad migraine person, so it was nice for him to keep some just in case. He learned the hard way that painkillers were the only thing keeping him from falling over on those days. Whatever was causing his migraine was worse than normal, which was odd.

Harrison managed to make it back his and Nerris' shared tent, without too much trouble. Ducking under his bed, he clutched his head as a new wave of pain hit him. T hat's odd. He mused taking note of the large empty space under his bed. He swore something was there last night, but he couldn't remember what. The boy decided not to think anything of it. He popped a couple of Tylenol pills in his mouth and dry swallowed. He would start feeling better in no time!

"Harrison?" A voice behind the boy asked. He spooked a little, but turned around to find Nerris standing in the doorframe. Tent frame? Tent entrance? He wasn't really sure what it would be called. American synecdoches were lost on him.

"Oh- hey, Nerris!" He chirped loudly, "What's up?"

"Where'd you run off to?" They frowned, "No one has seen you all day!"

"'M just not feeling good, I guess," He sighed, it wasn't that far from the truth. To be fair though he didn't exactly remember what the truth was in this case.

"David said that they were letting you sleep in or something." Nerris groaned waving their hand to dismiss him. "To be honest, I thought the platypus ate you." They giggled loudly at their own joke. Harrison smiled. Nerris and him were really good friends. Their relationship started off a little rocky, but with time they realized they really enjoyed each other's company and set aside their differences. From there it snowballed into them being besties. At least the bullying now was affectionate (though Nerris would never admit it always had been).

"How about we go ask David if you can have one of the popsicles in the Mess Hall freezer!" The bounced excitedly, "Those always make me feel better when I'm sick."

"Y'know what, Nerris, that sounds great." Harrison smiled weakly and allowed himself to be dragged to God knows where. The Tylenol could not kick in fast enough.

Upon re-exiting the tent he was hit again by the horrifically blinding light. Poorly attempting to shield himself, the sun crept its way inside of his pupils. He was light sensitive enough as is, but the migraine made everything a thousand times worse. He croaked out some sort of muffled scream-groan reaction, and Nerris clicked her tongue loudly.

"Harrison," They sighed shaking their head, "Stop being a baby. The sun has been up for hours, let's go." She affectionately ruffled his hair and dragged him to the Mess Hall. Upon entering, the magic duo was greeted by David hopping up from the table he was sitting at.

"Harrison! You're awake!" He smiled waving excidely to motion him over. "How are you feeling?" Upon spotting the sorceress he added, "And hello again Nerris!"

"Hi, David" Nerris responded, "You should let Harrison have one of those popsicles in the freezer, he's not feeling the best. I think he has a cold or something."

"Are you saying that because you want one to?" David teased the enby, ruffling up her hair. "I'm just messing, c'mon you two you can both have one. There's plenty to go around."

Nerris and Harrison exchanged a glance that said why-is-camp-man-in-a-better-mood-than-normal and shrugged. Luckily the acetaminophen was starting to cut back on Harrison's headache, so he didn't mind the red-head's antics. Free popsicles never hurt anyone!...unless they were past their expiration date of course. Knowing Camp Campbell, that was likely the case. 

"Purple for you," David handed the grape popsicle to Nerris, "And orange for you!" He handed the remaining popsicle to Harrison.

"Did he just give us the popsicles colors he associates us with?" Harrison giggled to Nerris. They elbowed his shoulder affectionately while laughing, earning a yelp from the latter. Harrison ate his at record speed as if it was the only thing he'd seen in days, while Nerris continued nibbling on it as the were talking.

"Okay, you two!" David grinned, "Head on along to the activities field, the other campers are already out there and we've got a a big day ahead of us!"

"Ughh," The sorcerer and illusionist groaned in unison. 

"It's Preston's day for theater camp today," Nerris stuck their tongue out at the mention as the two made their way out of the Mess Hall making sure to throw away their popsicle sticks. They didn't want to attract bugs, bears or diabetics (as David would always say) to the camp by leaving the sugar coated wood in question lying around.  

"I love Preston and all," Harrison started, "But if we have to do another one of his 400 Hamlet renditions..."

Just as the boy was talking he was cut off by Max appearing next to him. "This is such bullshit, I can't believe you got a popsicle just because you got drunk last night and have a killer hangover." The shorter boy teased.

"Drunk...?" Nerris looked at Harrison alarmed. That actually made a lot of sense now that he thought about it. No wonder the wine he has stashed under his bed had vanished when he went to go find Tylenol. That must have been what he had forgotten he stashed down there.

"Like you nerds wouldn't believe," Max giggled. "But that's not my place to say. Did David talk to you about it yet?"

"Uhm- no, I guess not. I can't really remember anything from last night anyways." Harrison shook his head.

"Meh, I bet he's waiting to see if you want to talk about it first. You losers wanna skip Preston's camp and go do something with me, Nikki, and Neil?"

"Sure!" Nerris added excitedly, "I love Nikki. We should go treasure hunting to find that chest David claims is here in his camp song."

As if on cue, the teal haired girl appeared behind Max, singing obnoxiously out of key. "Oooohhhhh there's a place I know-"

"Yep, I'm gonna stop you right there." Max pushed her off of his shoulder. "Let's go do that."

"Yippee!!" Nikki cheered. Nerris hesitantly looked back at Harrison as if they had something she wanted to say to him. The small group of five moved behind the mess hall and Nikki began digging with her bare hand.

"Me and Harrison-"

"Actually it's Harrison and I," Neil griped leaning against the wooden cabin, shaking his head. "Continue, sorry."

"Uhm-," Nerris look at him blankly. "Yeah anyways we're gonna go find some shovels, right?" She stared daggers into Harrison's soul and dragged him away with a firm grasp on his wrist. He yelped out something like a yes, and the two were off. 

When Nerris was sure the two were out of ear shot, she sighed. "Harrison, what was Max talking about?"

"I'm going to be really honest Nerris, I don't remember anything that happened last night." He shook his head, "But I mean, he's probably right because it's something I do all the time-"

"WOAH WOAH WOAH." Nerris held a hand up to the boy to stop him, scaring the shit out of him consequentially. "Sorry to scare you, just, what do you mean all the time?"

"Well, when I can't sleep, whichiswaymoreoftenthanyouthink..." He sputtered,.

"Why can't you sleep?" Nerris asked innocently.

"I just have too many thought about, everything...just," Harrison throws his hand up in frustration, "I don't know! I can't stop think about them, Nerris. Anytime I close my eyes I can hear their voices and I dunno what to do about it. My parents that is." Realizing his outburst he added, "Sorry."

The sorceress frowned at Harrison. "Hey, it's okay, alright?" She rubbed his shoulder, causing him to flinch and freeze up a little. The funny thing about Harrison is when he freezes up, he actually starts freezing. Nerris saw the ice forming at the tips of his boots and backed down. "No one is mad at you, least of all me. You're my best friend, Harrison. I just," Tears pooled in their eyes.

"I don't want," Nerris squeaked. "Well, I don't know!" She dramatically waved her arms.

"Sorry." Harrison added barely audibly. 

"No, no, don't be sorry. I just wish you could trust me enough to come to me with these things." Nerris sobbed. Harrison froze up uncomfortably, ice poking at the tips of his fingers. "Sorry, I'm probably making you uncomfortable sobbing like this. I just...I don't know." She shook her head. "I promise I won't judge you for anything Harrison. You my, and let me repeat this, best friend. I really care about you. Despite all the teasing." She snorted softly at her joke.

Harrison pulled her into a tight embrace. In retrospect, he probably should have asked if he could first, but they accepted the hug back, so it worked out for him after all!

"Do you want to host a sleepover tonight to get your mind off of everything?" Harrison grinned. "You could pull out your tarot cards and talk about how dumb my magic is, and you could invite whoever you wanted..." He said sing-song, picking up the shovels  the two came for and handing one to Nerris.

"Yeah! Y'know that doesn't sound so bad. Only if Nikki can come though, I don't care about you that much, loser." Nerris teased.

"Whatever, dork." he brushed her off.

"Seriously though, promise you'll come to me if you need anything?" Nerris stuck out their pinky finger. "I don't have to tell anyone anything about what you say if you don't want me to."

Harrison hummed thinking for a moment. That did sound nice. "Promise."

Chapter Text

A comfortable dusk settled over the camp. The night sky was airbrushed with stars so beautiful, it looked as if they were painted on. A buzz of excitement settled itself within the camp, as all the campers prepared for the night of their lives.

After the events of everything, Nerris and Harrison decided to host a sleepover in their tent. Most of the campers with the exception of Nerris and Max didn’t know the full story of the previous night. All they had heard from David was the information that didn’t dive too deeply into the forefront of the story. They did however know that the magician was prone to night terrors, and he had been having a violent one on the night in question. David had told the kids that Harrison had a rough night and he could talk about it if he wanted to. No one pushed for information after that. Well, with the exception of one.

“Hey, nerd!” Nurf teased slightly toward the hazel-haired boy, “David said you were having a rough night last night, y’know you can talk to us if you’re struggling right?” His tone dropped into something more serious and the short red-head crossed his arms sternly. “I don’t know the full story, and I know that it’s not good to compare situations, but I’ve been there, okay? If you need someone to talk to please come to me and Ered. Everyone here cares about you, loser!” He stuck out his tongue affectionately.

“Thanks, Nurf.” Harrison smiled warmly as the two were walking to the camper’s tents. “I- um- I know you’ve had a rough past so you can always talk to me too, okay?”

Nurf responded to that by grabbing Harrison into a bone crushing hug, earning a yelp from the latter. “I’ll remember that, thanks Harrison.” Nurf sniffled loudly, with tears pricking his eyes, clearly unused to the affection.

“I mean, what are friends for?” The magician giggled.

“Ayo! Dorks!” Ered caught up to the two of them. “Hey, little dumbass,” She nudged Harrison. “You guys ready for the night of our lives?” 

“Hell, yeah!” Nurf punched the air. “But before we have fun we need to make sure that everyone is comfortable and well accommodated for, as part of our duty as campers.”

Ered chuckled. “Alright, Nurfie, you go do that.” She ruffled up his hair. He giggled and grabbed her hand running to go to the tent, stopping in his tracks. “C’mon, Harrison!” He laughed and gestured at the illusionist. 

Harrison caught up to the two and the group emerged into the tent with Nerris. Looking around the magician spotted a small cluster of kids already in there. Dolph was seatted to Nerris’ left, with Nikki on her right. 

“Harrison!” Nerris gasped loudly. “It’s sleepover time!!”

“SLEEPOVER SLEEPOVER SLEEPOVER!” Nikki chanted, falling over herself. 

“I was thinking…” The sorceress wiggled her eyebrows, “Ouija board?”

"YES!!!" Preston shoted. "I LOVE the dark arts."

Harrison froze in place. There's no harm right? His parents weren't here. Still, something about it felt so wrong. 

"Harrison?" Ered asked, "Are you okay, dude? You look like you've seen a ghost."

Nikki snickers. "He will soon! C'mon Nerris get out the Ouija board!"

"Y...eah, go ahead." He croaked out. 

'Harrison!' His mother croaked, raising a threatening fist. 'I will not have any child of mine engaging in such devilish behavior!'

Harrison shook his head fighting off the memory. He looked up to see Nerris spreading out the board. He didn't want to disappoint his friends by backing out now.

"Okay, everyone!" They said cheerfully whistling through their braces. "Put your hands on the token in the center and allow the spirits to be channeled through us."

"Ooh! I am so excited." Dolph giggled. "I've never done anything like this before."

Ten hands found their way to the token in the center allowing Nerris to take the lead. "Spirits if you're with us, give us a sign." The oil lights in the tent flickered out leaving everyone in pure darkness, the entire tent breaking out into screaming and mass hysteria for a few moments. The light re-lit itself as if nothing happened, scaring Harrison shitless. The magician struggled to find the breath within his throat.

He regained his sense on reality as fast as he possibly could. In for three, hold for three, out for three. He couldn't let that memory resurface right now. 

"Woah!" Ered exclaimed. "I guess those radical ghost dudes are totally present right now."

"Ask them a question, Nerris!!" Nikki practically screamed. 

"Okay, what is your name." The mage asked. The hands of everyone began to move.

J-A-S-P-E-R

Everyone gasped loudly as Nurf spelled the name out. "Holy shit dude," Neil stated. "Didn't David have a friend named Jasper who went to Camp Campbell with him?"

"Oh my god!" Nikki gasped incredibly loud. "Neil, you're totally right!!"

"Wait ask it something else!!" Space Kid piped up. 

"How did you die?" Nurf asked.

D-Y-N-A-M-I-T-E

"WOAHHH!" Preston exclaimed. "Dynamite? Where would they have even found that?" Just then the board moved again.

C-A-V-E

"You mean Campbell's cave in the woods on spooky island?" Dolph asked with wide eyes. The piece moved to the YES option on the board.

"That's freakyyy." Ered stated, blinking her eyes in disbelief. The piece moved again.

H-E-L-L-O-A-G-A-I-N-S-P-A-C-E-K-I-D

Space Kid giggled after Nerris showed the deciphering notebook they had scribbled out the message in.

"Wait dude," Max asked, "You know, Jasper?

"Yeah when we were on Spooky Island," A crack of thunder emitted in the background, scaring everyone. "Looking for that cure." They continued hesitantly.

"Wasn't that the place with the sex dungeon?" Nikki asked innocently.

"...sex...dungeon...?" Harrison croaked.

The piece moved again toward the YES and then T-H-A-T-S-I-T

"Dude can we summon you?" Nurf asked enthusiastically, starry-eyed. The red-head was a huge fan of everything paranormal.

YES

There was a collective murmur of approval before Nerris asked. "How do you summon a spirit?"

S-A-Y-M-Y-N-A-M-E

"What's the difference between saying it now and when we said it earlier?" Space Kid asked innocuously.

I-N-T-E-N-T-I-O-N

"I get it!" Nurf suddenly shouted, causing a few confused looks. "Sorry, just we have to say his name with the intention of summoning him to actually summon him, we can't just say it." As obvious as that sounded, it took someone spelling it out (quite literally) for the group to get it.

"OOHHH!!!" Nerris squeaked excitedly. "Nurf that makes so much sense! You must have rolled a d20 on your perception check."

"Nerdiness aside," Max brushed off. "Let's summon this fucker!"

YES the piece moved without anyone actively touching it. P-L-E-A-S-E-L-E-T-M-E-O-F-F-T-H-I-S-I-S-L-A-N-D

"Jasper!" Space Kid squeezed his eyes shut. Suddenly a white light let out a sonic boom, and the boy in question appeared.

"Yo! Sup space cadets!" Jasper exclaimed and Space Kid tried to hug him falling right through the ghost. "I missed you SK! Glad I get to meet you all!"

"Oh my god." Preston exclaimed. "This is so neat."

"Hey, Jasper!!" Nikki squealed. "Oh, this is so cool!"

"Hey, sorry to be a square, but where's that short brunette with the gloves?" Jasper raised an eyebrow.

"Shit." Max looked around startled.

"Harrison?" Nerris frantically called out. The boy was gone.

"Fuckkk, dude!" Neil pulled at his hair, "I forgot how freaked out at supernatural stuff he gets."

"Shit! I didn't know that!" Nerris squeaked.

"Well, I didn't either until recently!" Neil defended.

"Why didn't you say something!!"

"Because I forgot dumbass!"

The group (+ Jasper) set out to find the boy, Nerris' oil lamp in hand. They didn't have to travel very far  as they found him shaking against the walls of one of the other tents, terrified. The boy was clearly having some sort of panic attack.

"God damn it." Max yelped. Causing Harrison to startle even further. 

"Harrison...?" Preston called with a softness to his voice that only appeared in the most serious of moments.

'I'm sorry mom!' A younger version of the boy cried within Harrison's mind's eye, now taking up his whole focus. 'I didn't mean to- I didn't-' He had tried to convince his mom that his magic was safe by making his older brother disappear and reappear, and that it didn't go against the Lord's way. His brother was now lost to the depths of time and space, leaving a shaking eleven year old Harrison backed up against the wall in tears. 

The boy felt the cold calloused hands of his father beat him over and over and over. He had messed up. Badly.

'Where's my baby boy!' His mother weeped. 'Bring back my baby boy this instant, Harrison!'

'I can't- I don't'' He couldn't breathe. He felt a final blow to his ribs causing him to temporarily black out.

When the shaking boy regained consciousness he heard his mother on the phone in the other room, presumably on the phone with the church. He allowed his consciousness to slip yet again. 

Next he knew he was strapped into the backseat of his parents car, bruised and hurting well, like hell. The car ride flickered in and out of memory, but he did strongly remember pulling into the church parking lot in the middle of the night. He was dragged in against his will, and next thing he knew he was naked on the church alter. And after that, well...

"Don't touch me!" Harrison screamed through tears, mid-way through the memory, covering his ears.

"Woah, chill Harrison!" Neil shouted. "No one has their hands on you."

"I- He!" Harrison's eyes darted frantically.

"Don't be insensitive, Neil." Nurf said sternly. "Something clealy triggered some sort of unwanted memories for Harrison. He's clearly having some sort of trauma-based flashback right now, look at him!"

"Shit." Max said with surprise, suddenly putting the pieces together. "I think I know what this is about." The boy moved in the direction of Harrison slowly as to not alarm him. "The rest of you go back, I got this."

"Are you sure?" Nikki asked hesitantly. Max nodded.

When it was just the two of them Max sat down next to Harrison, taking his hand. The boy jumped at first but leaned into the touch slowly. "Shh, it's okay, Harrison. You're safe here."

"Max," Harrison cooed.

"Yeah dude, it's Max." Max hummed thoughtfully, "You were having one hell of a flashback."

Harrison blinked tears away, allowing Max to scoop him up into a hug. "It's chill if I hug you, right?" Harrison nodded and let the tiniest tooth-gaped smile show.

"Listen, this might be really personal to talk about, so you can come to me if you ever need some to talk to. Plus, I think I understand what's going on." Harrison hummed.

"Wanna ditch this shit and go for a drive with David? His drives are the best. Plus, he might buy us ice cream!" Max grinned.

"I would love to," Harrison smiled, wringing his hands.

Chapter Text

The soft morning light was cut through by the squeals of police sirens.

Max and Harrison were snuggled up against the wall of one of the tents fast asleep, they were going to originally go find David to go on a drive, but were both so tired they fell asleep instantaneously. Upon the other campers seeing that the emotional night had clearly taken a lot of out of duo, they had all retreated to their individual tents, allowing them the sleep Max and Harrison were in desperate need of. Nerris promised everyone that they could have the rest of this sleepover another night, and they all obliged, saying that it sounded more than fair to do so. Jasper was sleeping in Space Kid and Preston's tent, not want to return to the confines of Spooky Island just yet and aiming to find some sort of closure with Davey before he does so.

David had woken up to the Sleepy Peak officers knocking on his cabin door, and shot up to see what was going on.

"Oh my goodness," David gasped, rubbing his eyes in a mixture of exhaustion and disbelief. "Officers, what are you doing here?"

Two officers were positioned at the door of the counselor's cabin. David examined the duo in great detail.

The female officer was short, bulky, and pale. She had auburn hair braided over her shoulder and an expanse of freckles charting her cheeks. The male officer was tall and muscular with skin the color of burnt driftwood. A thin scar covered the bridge of his nose to the tip of his cheek. Their name tags read 'Brenda' and 'Leon'. The matching silver rings on their hands hinted to David that they were married, or at least engaged.

"Who is it?" Gwen called blearily from her bed to which David gestured to her to knock it off. Upon the former seeing the officers, she shot out of bed scrambling to the door along with David. "Holy shit, dude," she quietly mouthed to him and he nodded, frightened.

"We got intel that a 'Maxwell Kumar' was positioned in these parts. Am I correct in stating that?" One of the officers, Brenda, questioned, crossing her muscular arms. 

"Yes, that is correct." David gulped, nodding frantically.

"If you don't mind me asking," Gwen stated, her eyes darting towards David who was wringing his hands anxiously, "Why would you need him? He hasn't done anything illegal as far as I'm aware." 

"According to Subdivision Six; Section A of county law, he needs to be placed into immediate police custody for emergency foster care. This must transpire within 30 days of the qualifying incident. We've been meaning to get to you guys sooner, but finding this place was a hell and a half." The taller male officer, Leon, stated. 

"Foster care?" Gwen asked alarmed. "Hold up, what's going on?!"

"The Kumar residence was found abandoned upon warranted inspection, and custody must be transferred." The female officer snapped, agitated, as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. "We're here to collect him."

"Woah, hold up!" Gwen wave her arms in front of her, backtracking. "We are not sticking that kid in a home! Especially in the middle of camp! Do you know how damaging that is to a child?"

"Frankly, ma'am, we don't care. We have a job to uphold and I'm not breaking the law just because he is against the idea of it." Brenda glared daggers.

"Well, how about I foster him then!" David squeaked out.

"Are you sure about this, David?" Gwen questioned, "What if he doesn't want to?"

"He'll decide that for himself." The red-head confirmed.

"We'll have to conduct a background check on you before you can do that." Brenda stated, clearly over the whole thing. "Can you bring the boy to us?"

"Let me get the Millers on the phone, they're familiar with this stuff, they fostered Nurf for a little bit until his aunt could take him in permanently, right?" David bit his lip. Gwen nodded. "Gwen you go grab Ered's file and call them, I'll go find Max okay?" The two split their separate ways.

"Hold up," Leon shook his head, "You don't mean the Millers, do you?"

"Good bunch those two are. Perfect for each other too." Brenda added.

David took the window of idle chit-chat as free reign to dart past the police officers. When he reached the camp grounds he was greeted by Harrison and Max snuggled up against Preston and Space Kid's tent. He attempted to shake Max awake, waking both of the boys in the process.

"David?" Harrison croaked, looking at the red-head who was anxious to get moving, "What's going on?"

"The police are here, they need to speak with Max." David sighed. Noticing Max's eyes scrunched up in confusion, he went on to explain the situation, "They're trying to take you into emergency custody. Gwen is getting the Millers on the phone so you can try and at least finish off the last three weeks of summer here."

"Holy shit, dude!!" Max sat up abruptly, clearly shocked, "What? Why? What's going on?"

"I guess they found your house abandoned and need to take you in." David scrunched his face up. He felt as if he was betraying Max in a way, even if he had no active part in this happening.

"Dude, what the fuck!" Harrison gasped. "They can't just take Max away because his parents are assholes!"

"I know, boys." David had noticed that the two had an understanding of each other's lives that the other campers didn't. He missed Jasper. They were this close when they were campers. 

David shook his head to dismiss his thought and Max followed him to the counselor's cabin hesitantly. Gwen waved to him excitedly, on the phone. The two entered the cabin to join Gwen, now facing the officers. "The Millers said they would fight for him to be placed in your custody if that's what he chooses." She mouthed. 

"That's great!" David exclaimed. Max looked at the floor, still tired and unsure of what was happening. 

"Max, the Millers said you could come stay with David and finish out the summer if that's what you choose." Gwen said turning to face him, "Apparently, they are pulling some strings right now, since they trust him from everything that happened with Nurf. Would you like that, or would you rather stay elsewhere?" She asked as calmly as possible.

"And remember Max, I won't be offended if you don't quite feel comfortabl-" David added, before being cut off by the boy in question.

"Are you kidding, Camp Man? Of course I would want to stay with you!" Max exclaimed. The officers sighed and checked their watches. 

"When we get the forms of approval on your background check from Agent Miller, we will be on our way." The female officer sighed. "How you managed to get the Millers on your side is beyond me. They have some of the most influence in the United States law of any individuals."

"This usually doesn't happen within the foster care system, just so you know." The male officer groaned. "Consider yourselves lucky."

"I can't believe this is happening." Max grinned. "I'm so...what's the word?"

"Do you mean happy, you little shit?" Gwen ruffled up his hair.

"That." Max punched her in the leg. "Ered has some cool dads, and now I guess I have a cool one too."

David grinned so wide his cheeks hurt and pulled Max into a hug. He yelled and mumbled to David to not push it.

Maybe things wouldn't be so bad after all.

Chapter Text

Officers Brenda and Leon had left the campgrounds after a few hours of impatiently waiting around. They had given David a list of phone numbers and addresses, being surprisingly cooperative for people serving with CPS. Essentially the Millers had swung the law in favor of David, making the case he fell into the subclass of voluntary foster care. The officers had given David 90-days to appear in front of a judge for a hearing, or to hand him into the foster care system as protocol. David would have had to have Max's parents file for release of parental rights on the child to prevent alleged reunification, but since they were untraceable at the moment, they were just at the mercy of the law. In a few days anyways, their guardianship would cease within the thirty-day window if David managed to file a case.

The man did just that. He poured over the state and county laws, trying to make sure he would have as much of a fighting chance in court as he possibly could. He found info about the circuit court just a few towns over that he would be expected to be present at. It was still within the greater Lake Lilac district, so he made sure to check the regional laws for that as well.

He couldn't fail Max. Not after his parents failed him.

The jaded teen boy in question found himself seated at the end of the dock overseeing the lake, his best friends Neil and Nikki seated at his sides. The mint-haired girl was even more energetic than usual as she was recapping her conversation she was having with Camp Campbell's Resident mage-in-training, Nerris, from earlier that morning.

"And then they were telling me alllll about the new campaign they were planning on doing," Nikki bounced on her hands, as she squeaked, "And they even said that they would make the lead mage an adventurer like me! I got to see one of the painted figures and everything and it looked just like me, it was so cool!!"

"As much as I would love to hear about your nerdy activities," Neil started before he was cut off by Max doubled over laughing at his hypocrisy, "Shut up, Max." He waved his hand in front of Max. "As I was saying, I feel like Nerris has changed a lot this summer."

"Dude! It's not just them either!" Max added, sighing, "Everyone has."

"Even us?" Nikki asked thoughtfully, "I feel like I haven't changed that much, but you think you haven't Max and I know for sure you did."

"Eh," Max added doing a so-so with his hand, "I'm more at peace with the change then I was a couple weeks ago when Campbell was still fulfilling his community service. It took a lot to learn that change isn't always so bad. It had been all I had even seen change as before. But you guys I feel have also changed a bunch, not in the bad way though."

"That's a huge leap in character growth, Max." Neil added, causing Max to stick his tongue out and flip Neil off mouthing 'nerd' in the process. Nikki giggled a little, her arms firmly planted on the dock.

Neil paused for a moment before adding, "How have we changed, though? I feel like I'm the same Neil I was when I entered this hellhole the first week of June." Max always forgot that Nikki and Neil had arrived to camp one week later than everyone else. Camp technically started the last week of May, but his for-lifers showed up later than usual due to both of their schools ending later than most public schools.

"Hmm," Nikki hummed, "Well for one Neil, you're less angry and hostile. You've never been as angry as like, Max for example-" Max punched Nikki in the shoulder at the comment while laughing at the girl's antics.

"But when you first showed up, I thought you would be all aggressive and hostile and argggghhhh!!! Y'know?" Nikki paused before continuing, confirming her own statement as she often did, "But yeah, that first day of camp you totally cussed out the counselors, pretty bad ass though."

"Also, in addition to that, you've become more open to new experiences." Max added to Nikki's train of thought, "Like before camp, would you ever have pictured yourself being this social even if only by your standards? You're outside without technology everyday and you've hardly batted an eye toward that recently. Plus you peed in the lake, which is a twist I never saw coming." Max had a huge shit-eating grin on his face as he finished that sentence.

"I THOUGHT WE AGREED NOT TO TALK ABOUT THAT!" Neil yelled, flustered, "Plus, it was like, totally Pikeman, you said yourself. Otherwise I would have to tell David you can't swim." He said sing-song, sticking his tongue out.

"Hey, hey!" Max shoved him threateningly, "It was Pikeman whatever, whatever."

"Good." Neil grinned. "But Nikki you've changed a lot this summer too. Every single one of the campers has mellowed out a lot, but you especially. Plus, you're more in-touch with your feminine side and that's pretty badass."

"Thanks, Neil!!" Nikki squeaked excitedly at the unexpected praise, "I guess I just realized that a whole gender can't be defined by a set of behaviors and stereotypes, and that if I wanted to do makeup or wear fake nails, it didn't make me any more like the Flower Scouts than the next person."

"Hell yeah, little dude!" Max high-fived her.

"Y'know who's changed a lot this summer?" Nikki questioned.

"Hmm?" Max asked the chipper girl.

"Harrison." Nikki and Neil said in unison.

"Oh my god! You see it too! I thought I was going crazy or psychoanalyzing him or something." Neil breathed a sigh of relief.

"Really? That nerd?" Max questioned, joking, but he had to admit now that it was out in the open he saw it too. 

"Yeah!!" Nikki exclaimed, "I don't know if it's just me, but I feel like he started off the summer all dorky and lovably awkward, but he's gotten a lot more concerning and messed up as the summer is wrapping up."

"It's not just you who sees it, Nikki." Neil shook his head, the curls falling away from his eyes. "Ever since Parents Day, I've been really worried about him. I'm sure the other campers see it too, but I've been noticing a lot of his mannerisms that I had never noticed before. Like just last night he was having an anxiety attack or something. I didn't want to push, or make anything worse, but I get the vibe that something is seriously wrong."

"You guys don't get it," Max rubbed his jaw, "Something is seriously wrong. His parents are major assholes. At the beginning of summer I'm sure he presumed that by coming to this camp and 'fixing' and what a load of bullshit that is-" Max paused, realizing his train of thought was derailing, "Anyways, I guess he assumed that maybe his parents would love him after he 'fixes' whatever is 'wrong with him'" Max put that part in air quotes. "That they would love him and treat him normally. But after Parents Day he saw that they would never care and how they hadn't even shown up for him, just to see if he was fixed, it kinda changed his whole outlook on everything. I just know it probably resurfaced a lot of old shit that happened to him, too."

"Shit, dude." Neil said, wringing his wrists, "I guess I never had put that together. That actually makes a lot of sense, actually."

"I feel sort of bad about bullying him now." Nikki sighed, "I hope he knew it was affectionately, but I wouldn't be surprised if he didn't and like I don't know, ran off to hang out with Quartermaster or something." She grimaced at the notion.

"Shit," Neil groaned, "As much as I hate to say it, you're right, Nikki. I spent a good week trying to disprove his magic at the beginning of the summer. I feel like an ass now, like the kind of guy who ruins Christmas magic for little kids."

"Hey, we've all fucked up in friendship," Max waved his hand dismissively at Neil, "It's part of the process. All that matters is being able to put all that behind you and being there for the person in the now. Like David. He gave me a second chance even if I really didn't deserve it, and as much as I hate to say it, I actually enjoy his company now."

"That's just David though." Nikki giggled. "He's overly forgiving. I don't think he can even see others as doing wrong."

"Besides Campbell." Neil added, thoughtfully. He waved his finger at the notion.

"Besides Campbell." Nikki confirmed. "But I hope Harrison thinks the same way, I'd be happy to try and get to know him better. He's one of the people here I know the least about. Well, him and Preston." 

"Yeah," Neil sighed, "I'd like to try and get closer too. I've overheard him ranting about psychology to Preston a few days ago, and honestly he has such an interesting take on applied philosophy."

"In English please?" Max teased. Neil shoved him.

"I don't do layman's termsss," Neil dragged out to be agitating, "But I want to be a nerd with him, essentially. Plus, I have to admit his tricks are pretty cool."

"I'm sure that loser would appreciate you two as friends," Max ragged lightly, "I know I do."

"AWE!" Nikki squealed, "We love you too, Max." Neil nodded, grinning ear-to-ear. 

The sun began to set, as the three pulled each other into a tight group hug. 

Chapter Text

David groaned loudly as a throbbing pain made its way into his temples. He looked away from his computer screen illuminating the night-fallen room (with the exception of the bedside lamp Gwen had turned on), and rubbed his head. A major migraine had found its way into David's brain, he knew he needed to sleep.

"David?" Gwen looked up from her phone, "Are you seriously still looking at that information for the circuit court? You need a break, dude. You've been at this for hours. How can you make a compelling guardianship case to the judge, if you can't even do that?" She teased softly, although there was a twinge of truth in her words.

David had managed to get temporary custody over Max for the time being by filing a petition to do so, and to take his parents to court. The clock was ticking though, as he would soon be brought in front of the judge yet again.  

"I can't let Max down. I need to win this case." The freckled man sighed, taking a large sip of coffee from his 'Number 1 Counselor' mug.

"You're not alone in this, David. If you want a break I can take notes on the rest of the subdivisions of laws and see whatever evidence I can find against Max's parents. Even when you do win, I know you will, I'll still be there to help you with the little shit. We're CBFLs, remember?" Gwen smiled at him.

David instantly broke into the widest grin. He scooped Gwen into a back-breaking hug. "You're the bestest CBFL ever, Gwen! I'm gonna go for a walk to clear my mind and then do you wanna that trashy Prison Teen Mom show with me and gossip?"

"You get me." Gwen smiled back, leaning into the hug. "Hey, I'm going to look and see if I can dig up anything on magic boy's parents too while I'm at it."

"Thank you so much, Gwen!!" David squeaked, "Tell me what you find."

"I will!!" Gwen waved at the red-head, as he disappeared into the chilly evening night.

David bounced down the path of the gravel leading out of the cabin, breaking into a light jog. A weird fuzzy glow caught the corner of his eye as he slipped onto the forest path he often found himself charting. The blue light had vanished by the time he turned to look at it though, and David assumed it must have been the moonlight catching on one of the trees weirdly.

He sighed as he reached a clearing on the mountain and sat down to admire the beauty of nature and the whir of the occasional car passing far in the distance. He could have sworn he saw that fuzzy light again, and he had to admit he was starting to get a little freaked out, especially when that light in question called out his name.

"Davey?" A soft voice behind him, called. The name was said so quietly he could have almost mistaken it for his imagination. 

David turned behind him to be greeted by the childhood version of his best friend, Jasper. He could have sworn he was dreaming right now. His heart throbbed in his chest at a million miles an hour, and the red-head let out a squeak. 

"Oh my god," Jasper yelped, "Davey it really is you!"

"I! I don't-" David stammered, "What are you doing here?" He asked as soft as the lapping water in the distance. 

"Your campers allowed me to be free from that horrific island," Jasper gestured behind him, "Really, it's so square over there." He yawned, "But yeah, I've been meaning to talk with you."

"My campers?" David asked, confused.

None of this made sense. A voice rang in David's head. None of this made sense.

"Yeah at their radical sleepover last night, they summoned me." Jasper grinned, "So how's it been dude? I haven't seen you since, well forever! I mean I tried to visit earlier this summer, but I kept getting pulled back by some mysterious force to Spooky Island." Thunder cracked behind him, "Man I hate that."

"I though that was a dream or something!" David gulped, "Am I hallucinating right now?"

"I sure hope not, the D.A.R.E. program told us how unradical hallucinogens are." Jasper joked.

"It really is you, oh my goodness!" David tried to hug his friend but ended up falling right through the ghost. 

"Dang," Jasper sighed. "If only I was fully in this physical realm." He groaned.

"What happened to you?" David rubbed his head, sitting back up. "Campbell said you left early because your parents had picked you up, but I was never able to get a hold of you again." David frowned.

"Ugh, of course that wack-job would go out of his way to lie about that," Jasper rubbed his non-existent arm, "Listen man, there's really no right way to phrase this, but mid-way through our summer together I bit it, dude."

"Wait, do you mean...?" David trailed off, horrified. 

"Yeah," Jasper sighed. "Long story short, there was a cave full of dynamite, and I got trapped in the explosion. I did hear from that Space Cadet that Campbell is back to Super Guantanamo, so that gives me some kind of smug satisfaction." 

"UGH, I hate him!" Tears pricked David's eyes and he tugged light on the hem of his shirt, "Cameron Campbell trys to ruin my life and takes my best friend's. I can't believe I didn't even know. If there's a hell I hope he burns in it." David displayed a show of emotions Jasper had never seen in him before, but it was all the more proof that David continued to live and grow and change, while Jasper was stuck ten forever. He had to agree though, Campbell sucked ass.

"Shhhh, it's okay Davey." Jasper assured, "How are things around the camp these days?"

"Honestly," David sighed, "I'm worried about two of the campers, like really worried. I'm in the process of trying to foster one of them, to avoid the police trying to stick him in a home. His name is Max, he's a little rough around the edges but a good kid nonetheless. I remember how awful you said the system was, and I doubt it's changed much since then. I couldn't live with myself knowing I had a hand in putting him through that, even if it was indirectly. I have to at least do something." David paused aiming to find the right words, "The other one is this little brunette named Harrison. You'd like him, he was a lot like you when you were a kid, I guess you still technically are one though." He sighed, "He has me so worried, his parents don't seem like the best from what I've seen, and the thing Max has told me about makes me so angry for him."

"That sucks, man. No kid should have to go through that." Jasper breathed out loudly, "I hope both of them can find closure."

"I hope you can too, Jasp." David sniffled, tears burning his eyes again. "I really missed you." 

"I missed you too, David." Jasper said, drapping his ghostly arms around David's frame gently.

The spirit of Jasper dissolved into the night sky, passing on fully to the other side. Deep in the forest of Sleepy Peak, David weeped. 

Chapter Text

'The court finds David Meadows to be an unbefitting guardian to Maxwell Kumar and as such, grants custody to the state. Case dismissed.'

David found himself drowning and swept up in the crowd of people making their way out of the courthouse. He had failed, and was now being crushed by the weight of the citizens.

Waking up in a cold sweat, David shot up out of bed. Anytime the red-head had tried to sleep he found himself having that same dream over again. His greatest fear at the moment was failing Max, and the day of the custody trial was upon him.

The freckled man had decided to get dressed for the day, needing to be at the courthouse at 8:45, given the trial started at nine. He had luckily found someone by the name of CJ to watch over the camp for him, deciding he would hire the applicant if it went well. Gwen would be driving him and Max to the court house, dropping the man off, and taking Max to get breakfast while they waited for David. She promised she would be there ten minutes early to pick him up.

David buckled into the passenger seat of his car, with Gwen on the wheel. The drive was about twenty minutes, but every minute he got closer to the courthouse made this whole thing more real. He hoped this went well.

He stepped out of the car being greeted by the overwhelming presence of the Lake Lilac circuit court in front of him, this was all really happening.

Max rolled down the window in the backseat, saying his goodbye to David, "Good luck, Camp Man! I hope you win, that would be pretty cool." He waved goodbye to the boy and entered the building. 

When he entered the building he was overwhelmed yet again by how many rooms there were. Where was he supposed to go?

"Excuse me, honey?" A blonde woman no older than 25 said behind him, "Are you lost?"

"Yeah, kinda?" David laughed. "Do you know what room they are hosting the nine o'clock trial in?"

"Sure! Court Room A. I didn't catch your name, I'm Jen." She said with a look of malice in her eyes, that implied she was planning something.

David couldn't shake the feeling he had seen her before. "Oh, I'm David!" He waved and followed the woman to Court Room A.

He entered the room to the trial and took a seat on one of the benches. It seemed he had timed it out perfectly, because a few minutes later the judge appeared to begin the trial.

"All rise for the honorable Judge Emiliano Clayton."

Today was the day. Or, well, one of many important days within the process of gaining custody of Max. Here David was once again, facing the Lake Lilac circuit judge. Today was the custody case for legal guardianship of Max. Winning favor of the judge was crucial, he couldn't afford to slip up.

In the span of the last two weeks he has attended both the case-management conference on how the case should be progressed (in the progression of custody of Maxwell Kumar) and the fact-finding case against Anya and Kaanan Kumar (Anya and Kaanan Kumar vs the State). Due to their failure to appear in front of the court, both were apprehended, and the party against them was victorious by default. The Kumar's conviction left Max within the emergency custody field even further, and now it really felt like David vs the World.

In, out. In, out. David took a few calming breaths to prepare himself for what might have been one of the most nerve-wracking days of his life. He couldn't fail Max. Not again. Not ever.

"Attorney Hannah Khan, you may begin with your opening statements." Judge Clayton nodded slightly in the direction of the brunette.

"Thank you, Judge Clayton." Attorney Khan smiled stepping up to the podium, "In the early hours of August 4th at the hours of 4:53 PM the Kumar residence was found abandoned upon arrival. It is safe to assume that Anya and Kaanan were neglecting their duties as parents as both evident in their conviction and failure to appear in court, and as proof of such claims I submit that guardianship of Maxwell Khan should be granted to defendant David Meadows. I intend to prove that he is most qualified to be granted custody of the child."

"Thank you, Attorney Khan." Judge Clayton smiled, he appeared to be fond of the young female lawyer, "Attorney Jen Reese, you may present your opening statements."

"Thank you, Judge Clayton!" Attorney Reese responded brightly, "I intend to prove that the custody of Maxwell Kumar should be granted to the state, as through the foster care system. David Meadows makes minimum wage as a summer camp attendant, money that is not enough to support a child the way a child needs to be supported. The state calls financial accountant Annah Lindberg to the stand to testify for this claim."

That's when it hit David. He had seen her before. Jen was that cultist coinciding with Daniel. 

Well, shoot.

The motions of the case had begun. The short red-ish brunette haired women named Annah made her way to the podium to testify. She presented a compelling case of statistics on how David would not be able to provide for Max, given the salary he currently makes and his assets. Attorney Khan presented her cross examination and then called David to the stand to testify.

"The court calls David Meadows to the stand to testify on the accuracy of this information regarding Maxwell Kumar." The voice of the circuit court judge rang out loudly through the court room. "David Meadows to the stand." The sound of the gavel overtook David's senses.

It felt like there was a swirling weight inside of David's stomach. It was hard to focus. "Thank you, honorable Judge Clayton." David beamed, "I believe that I am in the most qualifying position to look over Max. As a Camp Counselor, I have a large set of skills that the average person does not have. I am trained in first aid, and a licensed therapist. The procession failed to consider such as my year-round career is in fact a therapist, instead choosing to focus where I operate my downtime working. The assets I have currently are more than enough to provide for two people."

"Thank you, David." Judge Clayton banged his gavel. "You may begin the cross examination whenever you are ready, Attorney Reese."

"Thank you, Your Honor." Jen glared at David with a weird look in her eyes, "A therapist's job is essential for helping with mental and emotional challenges, but they are not even close best fit for everything a child needs to grow and flourish. The state is a more befitting contender to take Maxwell in, given that the people who would be responsible for him are especially trained in what they do. Would you agree that the people in foster care know what they are doing, given they had to go through the entire process to become foster parents, David?"

"I would say so." David gulped.

"Prosecution rests its case." Jen smiled and returned to her seat, blonde curls bouncing behind her as she did so.

When did Jen become a lawyer? He mused softly to himself. Was this a one time thing? He didn't see this in her resume. Then again, he wouldn't put it past the cultist to lie, it just seemed like an odd thing to lie about. Who wouldn't want to state they have law experience?

David felt himself zone out for the rest of the trial, his stomach too full of nerves. Before he knew it, both female attorneys were down to their closing arguments.

"...And for these reasons David Meadows is not befitting as a guardian." Jen concluded, and David caught the end of. He really hoped the judge didn't agree. Oh god, what if the judge agrees?

"Thank you both," Judge Clayton nodded, "We will now take a five minute recess to reach a verdict. Court dismissed."

There was a shuffle of people pushing their way out of the courthouse and David found Gwen waiting with Max on the steps. "David!" Gwen waved, "How did it go in there?"

"I'm not sure," David sighed. "The verdict will be called in five minutes, I just hope the Judge wasn't too swayed by the prosecution." 

"It's weird they didn't have Max testify," Gwen added, "I know I would have him do so if I was a judge."

"Hmm," David hummed, "The law system is weird."

"Maybe you should have gone to law school instead of getting your shitty liberal arts degree." Max grinned from below Gwen.

"You little shit-" She ruffled up his hair, "Also, David. Was that Jen I saw exiting the courthouse earlier? I thought she was in jail?"

"Apparently not!" David squeaked, "She's testifying against me, and I can't help but get the feeling she's planning something."

"Oh, shit!" Gwen yelled, wide-eyed, "You're kidding?"

"I wish." David sighed, the court bell ringing behind him, "I'll be back shortly!" He smiled. 

A pit formed in David's stomach as he re-entered the court house. It was the moment of truth.

After everyone was situated back in the courtroom, the judge banged his gavel. "Welcome back to the custody case of Maxwell Kumar."

"The court has found David Meadows to be the best possible guardian to care for Kumar in the case of the custody of Maxwell Kumar, and as such, grants custody of the child to him. The case is dismissed."

Jen caught his eyes as he re-exited the court house, a look of malice crossed her eyes as she mouthed something to him he didn't quite catch. Upon a moment's notice she appeared behind him, the message now loud and clear, "Soon you graced with the light of Xemug."

Double shoot. What was she planning?

Chapter Text

What was he doing wrong? Why did David want Max and not him?

Some days, the magician felt like he was playing pretend. He pretended to have his whole act together, even if internally he felt like his whole world was falling to pieces in front of him. Clearly, he wasn't being convincing enough to actually make anyone believe him, there was a reason he wasn't here for theater camp. Now, here he was. In his shared tent with Nerris, trying to convince himself he had his shit together and that he was so sane and normal about the fact the summer would come to an end in four days, and he'd be shipped off back home the second that happens. Fantastic. 

The magician tried stifle a few hot tears by intensely staring at the tent ceiling. Tent roof? Tent covering? He wasn't really sure what it would be called. American synecdoches were lost on him.

Luckily Nerris was still asleep as he slipped out of the tent. The clock was ticking. He had about four days left to bring back as brother to aim to even make these upcoming nine months even remotely bearable. His parents had gotten worse since his brother vanished, that's for certain. The magician made his way past the camper tents, past the Mess Hall, and on to the activities field. He sighed as he sat down on his stage, preparing for the night of practice ahead. 

"Okay, Harrison," He coached himself, "You gotta get this right, you can't go home a failure." He took in a large breath, and waved his arms in front of him as he exhaled.

The brunette intensely thought about the person he intended on making reappear, focusing with every fiber of his being on the output. He tried to channel that as he whispered barely audibly, "Abracadabra!"

Nothing happened.

He felt a strong wave of self-hatred shoot through his body, the feeling of which over taking him, "No," He whispered, "I can't fail again." The magician couldn't return home empty-handed with barely any progress made. Who knows what they would have the church do to him. He felt sick at the thought. Best case scenario they try to have him exorcised again, and that itself was a horrific experience. 

He just needed to focus. Focus. Yeah, he just needed to focus. 

Harrison found himself yet again trying to force his brother into this realm, with little to no progress. He felt so useless. He's sure his parents would agree with him on that. The magician forced himself to stifle a yawn, as he prepared to try yet again. Still nothing.

He groaned and found the next few hours of the night to pass in a blur. He found it getting harder and harder to keep his grip on what had already happened and what was currently happening. He decided he needed to take a short break to clear his mind, and prepare for the long nine months ahead of him. His first order of business was making sure he had enough to eat.

The brunette's parents never ceased to amuse him. He usually was forcing himself to the every will of his parents hell-bent for any scrap of attention to notice, but in the occasional moments of situational clarity he had, Harrison realized truly just how fucked up his situation was.

Food was always used as his parents go-to method of punishment (besides 'beating the demonic influences out of him' which was really their shitty excuse to take all of their anger out on the boy). His parents always got so mad when they found out he was stashing food during his set 'fasting periods' (he was pretty sure a fast was one or two days, not weeks and months on end) but he would rather take the beating for that than to starve to death before he got the chance to escape his house. That was one nice thing about camp. He got three meals a day, and even if they were kind of bad, at least they were eatable and he didn't have to do anything to earn them.

The magician snuck into the Mess Hall that David always left unlocked, even during the night. He climbed over the counter that the Quartermaster set his pans on and into the pantry leading into the Mess Hall attic. The boy scanned the shelves, looking for anything with a long shelf life. He grabbed up a box of protein bars that he assumed were from that new hire CJ. CJ was into fitness like that.

He didn't understand why David had hired them after the camp was still standing when he returned from court. If Daniel was anything to go off, the fact there was very little screening process probably meant CJ would try to murder all the campers in broad daylight. There were only three days left, he was pretty sure that wasn't enough time for another cultist to try to kill off an entire summer camp anyways.

Why David didn't leave Gwen in charge here when he was at court was beyond him. Oh, that was another thing! Harrison wasn't actually supposed to know that David was at the custody case for Max that day. Too bad for David, Max told Harrison everything. The red-head opted to tell the campers that he had to deal with important business that would take him most of the day, and didn't elaborate further. He didn't want to say he was jealous of Max, but Harrison thought he would give David just about anything to be taken along with him. 

Oh, well. That's just how it goes for losers like you, Harrison.

He put the protein bars in his infinite storage of a hat, and snuck back out of the Mess Hall. Upon reaching the activities field, he walked in the direction of his make-shift magic camp and sat back down on his stage. The boy rubbed his eyes, he wasn't sure why they hurt more than normal tonight. He didn't spend too long to dwell on that though, as he was back to work in an instant. Reappearance time. He had got this!

"Okay, Harrison," He rolled his shoulders, in an attempt to wake himself up a little bit, "You've got this. Just make him reappear."

He took a deep breath in and tried to relax his body. He tried to picture his brother's face and focus on channeling that energy through him. "Abracadabra!" He said just above a whisper.

Something happened.

A beam of white light shot out of the boy's hands causing him to momentarily panic, before jumping up and down at how excited he was that something had finally happened. He ran off as fast as his legs could take him to the place his light collided with the ground. He was pretty sure he twisted his ankle tripping over a branch on the way there, but that was irrelevant. Up close, he felt a pit begin to form in his stomach as all hope he had previously dissipated. It wasn't a human person he found, but the remains of one. 

Harrison felt his body sway, and he passed out right as the sun began to peak through the trees.

Chapter Text

A thick drudging fog filled the early morning air in Sleepy Peak. Only those awake early enough–or perhaps those who never went to sleep, would have been able to notice it. Being the former of the two, a certain red-headed counselor was going to make his early rounds and preparations for the day before taking note of the thick, dreary haze and stopping in his place.

“Now what are we going to do about all of his fog?” David hummed to himself, wondering. “This certainly takes today’s Archery camp out of the question if it goes on like this.” A short buzz escaped from his lips as he re-grouped. The freckled man found himself wondering and walking for hours, as a dull glow of the sun began to appear through the trees.

“What are we going to do…” David asked himself again tiredly. His incessant pacing was abruptly halted, however, by a sudden tripping hazard he hadn’t been able to spot through the thick sheets of mist. 

A silent scream escapes David’s lips as he gathers his bearings upon tripping over what appears to be a soft human-like frame. Upon surveying the situation, he recognized what he believed to be Harrison in front of him.

“Harrison! Harrison!” David squeaked, as he shook the camper awake. A bleary groan softly escaped his lips as the camper stirred, clearly not ready to face the mental anguish that came with processing the previous day's events.

“What on earth are you doing out here?” David frowned. 

“‘M fine,” The magician tiredly protested, as David stood him to his feet. “Don’t wanna get up.”

“How long have you been out here?” The red-head asked Harrison innocently enough.

A few silent tears escaped Harrison’s eyes before migraine and emotional blockage took the wheel. Sniffling a few painful tears into his pounding head he stammered out a response. “I don’t know? I was trying to bring him back- I- I didn’t want to be a failure I just wanted them to love me and,” He hiccuped, his gaze falling to his shoes. “I guess they wouldn’t love me either way. I guess they’ve just seen me as an extension to themselves and their beliefs all along. Now I’ve gone and- I don’t know!” He gripped his hair, “Fucked everything up like usual! My brother is fucking dead thanks to me and-” He trailed off and burst into those brain exploding sobs he’d been trying so hard to keep in.

David scooped the boy into a tight hug, and the boy allowed himself to be taken into it. After a few seconds David heard a soft whisper in his ear, but not one necessarily targeted towards anyone.

“I’m a murderer. ” Harrison cried in David's arms until his lungs felt dry. “לֹא תִּרְצָח .לֹא תִּרְצָח."

David drew out a soft calming breath to shush him. “You’re not a murderer, Harrison. You’re just a little boy.”

“I’m old enough to be responsible for the weight of my own sins.” He croaked, softly, clearly regurgitating a line from one of his parents.

David didn’t know how to protest this, truth be told. He didn’t know where Harrison stood religiously and honestly David hardly knew where he stood himself. Whatever information was being injected into this boy’s head though clearly spilled out before him at this moment, and David found himself growing angrier and angrier at the adults in the magician’s life. 

The incessant mumbling of the short brunette drilled into David’s ears, “I killed my brother. I just wanted to make him reappear but,” He gestured vaguely in the distance, “Not like this. Never like this.”

“Harrison. You didn’t kill your brother. You believed you were doing the right thing, and truth be told, you were. Accidents happen.” David said firmly, beginning to piece together what happened. David really needed to keep a better watch on this kid, as he couldn’t allow the boy to engage in so much self-hatred. “I’m sorry you’ve had to put up with so much for so long.”

Harrison sniffled in-response and allowed himself to be taken away to the counselor's cabin. The fog began to ease up due to the early morning humidity going down. David held out hope that maybe he wouldn't need to change the archery plans after all.

Inside of the counselor's cabin, David patted the bed for the boy to sit on and handed Harrison the remote to the TV, telling him that he was welcome to skip out on activities today if he didn’t feel up to it. Harrison was too tired to protest, and scooped David into a hug reaching up to the red-head’s torso. David ruffled his hair and said he’d be back to check on the boy soon enough. 

According to the camp counselor, Gwen was already up, and CJ was coming into work at twelve o'clock as a new hire. CJ would be working for the last few days of the summer, and then working year-round as a groundskeeper on the property to make some additional money. Who knows what CJ thought he would find here, this place was pretty disappointing. 

Harrison thanked David profusely, and David smiled at him and said a simple “You’re welcome.” Followed by, “It was the least I could do.” Before turning on his heels and leaving.

Harrison snuggled into the soft cot of the cabin and felt his eyes drift off to sleep. David shut the door tightly, and made his way to the Mess Hall. A quick glance at his watch told him it was 7:31 am, and he hoped his co-counselor wouldn’t be too mad at him for being late, with the activities starting a whole 31 minutes earlier and all.

“Hey, David.” Gwen rasped, clearly exhausted despite it still being early in the day, as David entered the Mess Hall. Pandemonium echoed through the building as kids ran all over the place and an excited Max and Nikki bounced at her heels.

“Gwen. Gwen. Gwen.” The two were pleading with her. 

“Open the popsicle freezer, Gwen.” Nikki begged.

“For the last time!” She shooed the teal hair girl away. “I am NOT opening the popsicle freezer! Go sit down!”

“Gwennn,” Max cooed, swaying side-to-side. “You know you are my favorite liberal arts major, rightttt?”

“You too, Max! Go!” She brushed him off. He flipped her off and ran off with Nikki.

“Hey, Gwen.” David assured her, “I can take this if you need. Go rest if you’re tired.”

“No, no, it’s fine. I’m just glad you’re here.” Gwen smiled, rubbing her eyes. “God, I swear they’ve all gotten more restless with the end of the summer approaching in a few days.”

“Yeah…” David trailed mildly amused. “Hey, that reminds me, what are you planning to do with Camp Campbell closing up for the year, at the end of this week?”

“Hey, that’s right!” Gwen lit up, unexpectedly, “I totally forgot to tell you that I’ve been submitting some manuscripts to different companies, and I managed to land a fairly well-paying year round job as a journalist!”

“Oh, wow!” David gasped, “That’s incredible, Gwen! I hope you won’t forget me and all the campers and the fun you had here at Camp Campbel-” He smiled, teary-eyed. 

“Chill, dude!” She ruffled David’s hair, “I’m still going to be here to help finish up the summer, and who knows! Maybe I’ll come and try to say hi sometime when I’m free.”

“That would be nice.” David grinned.

“I’m thinking we should have some sort of send-off party for these kids.” Gwen mused, watching the Mess Hall antics with David. “They’re a good bunch.”

“Oh my goodness!!” David said excitedly, “We used to have the Summer So-Long Celebration here as campers! We could totally bring that back! It’s up to the campers to decide what they want it to be, so long as it honors their time here at camp.”

“That’s perfect!!” Gwen responded, “This might be the first thing the campers actually are excited for in this camp. Don’t let them think it has to be perfect though, we all know what happened with the time capsules.” Gwen shivered in memory. 

“We should probably gather them up soon enough,” David tilted his head sideways. “We should start archery club before they tear each other apart, plus I’m pretty sure the fog has lifted at this point.”

“Fair point.” Gwen smiled and moved to the front of the mess-hall. “Come on you little shits! It’s time for today’s activities!” A collective groan dispersed over the room as the campers made their way to the activities field, David in tow.

Conversation buzzed throughout the group, as a bunch of pairings (many of which seemingly unlikely at first glance) discussed everything under the sun. Nerris, Nikki, and Max drifted in a pairing towards the back of the group, with Neil off rambling about the significance and prevalence of the iambic pentameter in poetry in the front with Preston.

Nerris and Nikki were leading the conversation, passionately ranting about their interests, which surprisingly had a lot of overlap. David took note of Max’s silence, the boy only ever contributing to the conversation every once and a while and usually with some snarky, but affectionate remark. David could tell that his adoptive son was really going to miss this place, even if Max didn’t show it. That all David wanted for the campers, is something to take with them. This really would all be over tomorrow morning, huh?

“Alright, guys!” Gwen crossed her arms as they reached the field. “Archery camp, you know the drill!” She threw David the shed keys and whispered that she was going to go get something from the consoluer’s cabin. David nodded and took the hint to go drag out the targets for today, the reason they weren’t out already being the thick fog. 

The campers continued talking amongst themselves, with Nikki bouncing on her heels at Nerris’ mention of trying to let their parents arrange a sleepover.

“That would be so fun!!” Nikki squealed, “We could invite everyone from Camp Campbell so that way we can see each other even into the school year!”

The mage to Nikki’s was exclaiming excitedly before stopping. Nerris paused before addressing the boy in front of them. “Max, are you alright? You look like you’ve seen a ghost.”

Nikki giggled into her hand something to the extent of “I didn’t know Jasper was back.” Before high-fiving Nerris.

Max shook his head to shake the thoughts out of his brain. “Yeah, I just can’t believe it’s already almost over. Fuck, it really was the best-worst time I’ve ever had.”

“I know,” Nikki sighed. “I really want to make this last full day count, before tomorrow.”

The teal-haired girl was cut off by the sound of David dragging out the last target, the remaining targets, bow and arrows positioned at the different stations. He huffed and then greeted the group.

“Alrighty, campers!” David wiped the sweat off of his brow, “You guys are going to shoot at these targets until 12:30 and then the Quartermaster will call you in for lunch. After that, me and Gwen will announce your final activity of camp. Until then, Campe Diem!”

David resorted to patting the sweat back off of his face and seeing Gwen appear back at the camp. It seemed she was holding some small box and she handed it to him. “You told me to remind you at the end of the summer.” She winked, before going to watch the campers. 

David tilted his head in confusion and opened the box. In there were photos from throughout the summer and most importantly, a white disposable camera with a post-it note on the top labeled “ For Max ”. 

The red-head had a surge of memory as he opened the box and he went to approach the blue-hooded boy in question. 

“Hey, Camp Man.” Max looked up at David with a large grin. “What’s up?”

“I have something for you, Max.” David handed Max the box full of photos and the disposable camera. “As a way to remember the summer.”

Max examined the contents of the box before thanking him excitedly and running off to take pictures and go see his friends. David smiled. He was happy Max was starting to enjoy this place, even if it would all be over soon. 

David smiled and leaned up against the station for the unofficial hiking camp, to survey the action. 

Gwen was standing in the middle of the field breaking up things when they got too rowdy, but she mostly just relaxed that this job would be over soon enough. Not too much could happen within the last however many hours.

Nerris approached Gwen with their face scrunched up in confusion. “Gwen? Where’s Harrison? I want to use his head as a target for archery.” She joked. 

“Sorry, kid, he’s in the counselor's cabin sleeping.”

“Oh, really! What happened?” They asked, concerned.

“Honestly, I don’t know, Nerris, considering David was late to breakfast though, I bet he knows what’s up.”

“Okay, I don’t want to pry too much, so I think I’ll just go shake him awake!” They skipped off, humming. “Can’t let him miss the last full day of camp!”

Gwen sighed and shook her head. Luckily enough for her, CJ pulled into the camp at 12:10 and rushed over to the activities field. 

“Hey, Gwen!” He high-fived her and went to go show the kids how to properly shoot arrows. He was a free-thinker, that’s for sure, but he was well meaning, and that’s all that mattered as far as she was concerned.

This was one new hire Gwen could actually get behind. Lord knows that Daniel and Jen were a handful. Gwen muses. She’s just glad she never has to see either of them again. Gwen was abruptly shaken from her thoughts by a certain teal-haired adventure camper. 

“I WILL COME OUT ON TOP!” Nikki suddenly screeched from the field. 

“Yeah, you’ll be coming out alright.” Nurf smiled, with his arms crossed.

“Aren’t you literally also pan, Nurf?” Ered nudged him. 

“Hence why I make coming out jokes.” He smiled up at the taller blonde. “Also, you are SO on Nikki.” 

“What’s going on over here?” David asked as both him and Gwen drifted towards the center of the field.

“Oh hey dudes!” CJ waved slightly. “I challenged them all to an archery showdown.”

“YOU DID WHAT?!” Gwen and David exchanged a look of horror as arrows began flying and wrestling opponents began to ensue.

“These kids are really competitive.” Gwen grimaced. 

“Hell yeah!” CJ cheered to Nikki now pinning Nurf, “Rage against the machine.”

Much to David and Gwen’s relief, Quartermaster called them all in for lunch, putting a pin in this whole competition. Nerris and Harrison then joined them in the Mess Hall. Nerris seemed pretty disappointed they missed Nikki’s wrestling match, but Nikki assured them that she could always get in another one later. 

There was light discussion and David noticed that they had dragged together two large tables so that all of the campers could sit together. He was going to miss this camp, even if he’d hopefully be back next summer. David grinned as he noticed Max walking around taking photos of the campers and all of the antics. 

A potato collided with CJ’s head and he tilted his gaze to see Nikki in the corner giggling. “WOAH WOAH WOAH!” CJ suddenly cheered, “WHAT’S THIS?! FOOD FIGHT?!”

A cheer erupted from the camper’s table and a mass commotion broke out. Gwen turned to David to say “This day can’t be over quick enough.” 

David giggled in response. CJ was surprisingly good at what he did, even if his methods were questionable.

After lunch finished up, they all were guided back to the activities field where CJ added, “Okay, campers now listen up to your other rad camp counselors because they’re going to tell you your final camp activity.”

“Okay campers!” David smiled, “Our final activity is something I used to do when I was all the way back when I was a camper.”

“BOOOOO!!” Neil called out, “This better not be like the fucking time-capsules!”

“Yeah, fuck those!” Max added. 

“Not quite,” David giggled. “Our final activity will be a celebration of your time here at camp. It’s up to you guys to decide what you want it to be, so long as you all feel that it honors your time here at camp.”

“Wait?” Ered added, “That’s actually pretty frickin’ radical?” 

“Yeah I can’t believe I’m saying this, but one of the activities might actually be enjoyable and exciting.” Neil said, wringing his wrists. 

“Your time starts now, little shits. Meet at the Amphitheater at 7.” Gwen shouted blowing an air horn she had grabbed from the shed on the way here.

Chapter Text

Gwen and David had spent a good hour or two setting up at the Amphitheater, while the campers were up to god-knows-what. CJ had agreed to watch the kids for an extra couple of hours past agreement, so they could have a minute, which all things considered made David want to hire him permanently on-site.

"Man, I can't believe this summer is finally coming to a close," Gwen sighed offhandedly, as she fumbled around in a box, "I mean, don’t get me wrong, this place fucking sucks, but hey—thanks for making the summer bearable, David."

The red-head’s eyes shimmered with excitement. "I'm glad you've been enjoying yourself here Gwen, I'm-" He paused, his voice hitching in his throat, "We're going to miss you. So much." David sloppily grinned, holding back tears.

"Okay dork," Gwen lightly punched his shoulder, her eyes also shimmering with unsung tears, "I'm going to miss you too." She grinned an equally sappy smile, as they wrapped their arms around each other. 

After the duo had sorted all of the boxes from Campbell's old storage closet, discarding the unsafe items, and leaving the more appropriate ones, as well as cleaning up for the end of summer party, CJ ushered the campers over to the Amphitheater. Albeit, ten minutes late past the seven 'o'clock expected time, but at least they arrived in one piece. 

The group of kids were chatting animatedly amongst each other, Dolph pumping something in the lavender headphones Neil stole from the tech shop in town for him, his head nodding slightly to the beat. Nerris and Nikki had their hands interlocked, as they talked about their after summer plans. Nerris was practically begging Nikki to swap schools to enroll with her. Nikki was trying to figure out how to forge the documents with her mom's signature, giggling the whole time they chattered. Space Kid was fidgeting uncomfortably with her hands, picking at the clear nail polish on his fingernails, like he had something on his mind that they were trying to rationalize, or perhaps share.

"Hey SK, you doing okay?" Ered asked, her and Nurf turning to address the smaller boy. 

"I- yeah-" She grinned, playing with the end of their hoodie strings. "Just a lot on my mind you know."

"We're here if you ever need it." Nurf grinned, fistbumping him.

For such a different group of kids, they sure had become a tight-knit family.

"Okay guys," David grinned, animatedly putting his hands on his hips, "Happy last day of summer! As per Camp Campbell tradition we-"

"I'm going to cut to the chase," Gwen grinned, David affectionately place his hands on his hips as she spoke, "Don't blow yourselves or the camp up, what are we thinking of doing for the final night at this hellhole?"

The group buzzed with various ideas ping-ponging around the cluster of kids, CJ giving a little wave like he was about to head out for the night, as he disappeared past the over-hang brush, and off into the night.

"We could do a campfire?" Ered suggested, upon seeing the collective groan from the group, she added, "Not like a boring one- or whatever normal shit David makes us do, but like, we could tell ghost stories, make s'mores, and pull an all-nighter." She shrugged, "That could be chill."

"You know what, I might have to agree with Ered here." Max said, relaxing against one of the benches in the Amphitheater, the tension leaving his body now that he knew they weren't going to spit out bullshit ideas all night, "That could be pretty fun, right? Low pressure, farewell shit."

The group muttered a collective agreement. Nikki chimed in with, "Hey you knowww, since it's the last day and all," She drug out her words for dramatic effect, "We getting popsicles from the freezer tonight?"

"Eh, fuck it, why not?" Gwen sighed, "They're going to go bad anyways." She tossed her keyloop to Space Kid. "He's the most responsible one here, so I trust him to not like, take off with my car or something."

Space Kid haphazardly caught the keys that were tossed to them. Even though Gwen had technically complimented them, about their responsibility and all, the phrase hurt, and they weren't sure why. I mean, they were assigned male at birth, so, Gwen calling him by that shouldn't have gotten under the skin in the way it did. Whatever, they shook their head, they were probably just looking too deep into it.

Nurf had volunteered to accompany Space Kid to the Mess Hall, the two interlocking hands.

"Hey little Armstrong, what's going on in that head of yours?" Nurf asked, rubbing his calloused fingers over Space Kid's soft knuckles, "You seem out of it." Nurf said, a look of confusion on his face.

"I just- I dunno," He giggled "Just been having some confusing thoughts recently."

"Yeah?" Nurf asked, his ginger curls softly falling over his freckled face as he tilted his head, "How so?"

"I- I dunno. I really hate being called a boy sometimes, you know?" Space Kid shrugged, "When you told me that people could be multiple genders at the same time, I felt like it clicked then, but now, I feel, less so?" They tilted their head, their soft sun-kissed face flushing at the admission, "Are there other options, too?"

Nurf's eyes light up with a recognition for his little friend, "Of course, man- uh- buddy!" Nurf grinned, "You can label yourself however you want, there's nothing stopping you!"

"Is it okay to-" Space Kid's breath hitched in their throat, "Want to be a girl?"

"Hell yeah dude!" Nurf grinned, "Plenty of people change their gender, you know!"

Space Kid's eyes flickered with a sense of relief. "Can you- tell me more about it?"

The two continued like that for a couple minutes, grabbing armfuls of freeze pops, and moving back to the Amphitheater. The two paused for a minute, opting to grab stuff for s'mores as they were inside of the pantry.

"Hmm, I swear there was a lot more food in here a day ago," Space Kid said, grabbing stuff into their arms, "Didn't CJ have a whole box of protein bars in here? I didn't see him carry them out of camp and there's no way they all got eaten this quickly."

"Ah, it's probably nothing," Nurf shrugged, "There's a lot of campers, probably a few of them per person and boom! box gone."

"Yeah, that makes sense," Space Kid said, picking at the fabric on their jeans, before softly chiming in with, "Nurf- I- thanks for telling me about- um- all of that." They grinned.

"No problem AJ, how you feeling little- uhm- friend?" Nurf said hesitantly.

"I need to think it over," They nodded, "I appreciate you, really" Space Kid grinned, they paused before adding, "I don't have any siblings, but uh- you're the best big brother I could ask for," Space Kid said picking at her nails again.

The two wrapped their arms around each other. The snacks forgotten for a moment as they fell to the floor. 

"Would I be a pretty girl?" AJ asked softly, so softly Nurf almost missed it.

"The prettiest." Nurf whispered back to his little sibling-of-sorts. 

They stayed like that for a moment, the world seemingly paused around them. The moment is broken as they hear a weird shuffling sound outside the Mess Hall. 

"Guess we should get back, huh?" Nurf said, picking up the half melted popsicles dropped in a hurry. Space Kid picked up the closest things to makeshift s'mores they could find, and the two headed back. A comfortable silence falling over the duo. An anxious sort of being watched feeling poked at the back of Nurf's mind as they walked, but he shook it off, saying it's probably just nerves from the dark. You couldn't waterboard it out of him, but the dark always freaked the ginger out.

After returning to the camp area, David already had a bonfire going. The campers were curled close to each other, lighting up when they saw the duo return. 

"Nurf, Space Kid!" Ered grinned, "You guys made it!"

"We were starting to think Daniel got you with how long you were gone," Max snickered to himself, tossing a rock up and down in the air. "Who's sharing their story first?" 

The campers passed around freeze pops and s'mores, giggling and chattering at the various attempts at horror stories. David's, of course, was something stupid with a cute moral tied into the end. Dolph grinned as he excitedly rambled off about a story he was writing, the boy picking up an interest in literature throughout the summer. Nerris recounted the plot of American Horror Story, and was met with a sigh from Max about the unoriginalilty of it, Nerris was fairly certain he secretly enjoyed the rendition, though. Preston's was an elaborate story he improvised on the spot, Dolph taking notes on the interesting parts, the group chiming in with things he should add as Preston talked. It devolved into nonsensical rambling, the campers having the time of their lives, adding whatever they wanted to it. 

Space Kid chimed in, raising her hand. "Ooh! I got one!"

"Shoot, AJ." Ered ruffled the younger kid's light brown curls. 

"Let me set the scene," They grinned, "It was a night like any other. A circle full of campers, the moonlight shining across the the Lake of Lilac, Lake Lilac as it's known by some-"

They were cut off by a rustling in the bush. Harrison let out a surprised 'mph!' sound at the sudden noise. A raccoon hopped out of the bush, the tension among the group relaxing immediately. 

"Hmm- where was I." Space Kid started again, fiddling with a bracelet on their wrist. "Uhm- oh yes the moonlight was shining down on the lake. When suddenly an uneasy sense of being watched crossed over the camp circle, maybe by someone, maybe by something, who's to know, really?"

Harrison whipped his head backwards, hearing a dull whining in the distance. "Huh, did you guys hear that?"

Nerris shoved the magic boy slightly, "Don't be a pussy, Harrison, he hasn't even gotten into the story yet and you're alread-"

The low whining in the distance soon devolved into full blown screaming, frantic shouting. 'please oh my God please help me'

The group snapped at attention, "Guys, stay calm," Gwen shushed the group, "It's probably one of the Flower Scout fuckers messing with us."

"No that voice- that's-" Preston said, running his fingers through his neatly combed hair, "That's CJ!"

The group darted towards the entrance of the camp, unable to find anyone at all, really. Let alone the voice they heard. 

"Oh God, I think we lost a few of them on the way over," Gwen said, running her against her camper counselor shirt.

"I'm such a bad- oh my goodness-" David frantically looked around the group, "Space Kid? Space Kid?!"

CJ limps out from behind David's Honda Civic, "Guys, there's this- this crazy ass blonde chic here!" He frantically waved his arms. "I was trying to leave but she hit me with her car and-"

"Oh my God. Oh my God." Gwen muttered to herself over and over again, taking in the gravity of the situation. "CJ we need to get you to the hospital, right now."

"I'll just pop something and walk it off but-"

"Like hell you will!" Gwen exclaimed, "We need to find Space Kid and get out of this hellhole before-" Her eyes flickered with recognition, "David, you said Jen was at your case hearing, correct?"

"Oh no, oh no, oh no," David muttered over and over again, "I'll find Space Kid, you get everyone else out of here."

Gwen nodded, "Which of you have your license?" 

"I- have my permit?" Ered shrugged. 

"Yeah that will have to do, you hush on this, okay?" Gwen said, scared out of her mind, "Take half of the campers with you, in David's car, I'm going to take off with CJ and everyone left."

"We can't just!-" Harrison blurted, "We can't just leave David and Space Kid here! What if something were to happen to them? No one would be there to make sure they make it out okay!" 

"That's a good point." Neil chimed in. "I'm not ready to take that chance."

"We have to do something!" Gwen said, "Nurf and Ered, lock everyone in the Mess Hall, and hide in the backroom. I'm dropping CJ off at the hospital, I'll be back shortly. For the love of God. Do. Not. Leave."

The group nodded in agreement, Ered leading the way, as they fumbled with the metal door bar on the Mess Hall, The Mess Hall looked like a looming presence in the dark. The same place that was full of happy summer memories now seemed, like a vast grey scale prison in the dark. "Aw fuck, it won't budge!" She mumbled.

"Me and AJ were just in here, how is that possible?" Nurf groaned, "Where else can we hide?"

"Uhh- the camper tents?" Max shrugged, the group stealthy making their way in that direction. Harrison let out another surprised yelp at the sound of the bushes rustling again. 

"Chill Harry, It's probably just another raccoon." Nerris put their hand on Harrison's forearm. The group turns to face the bush, however, to see Jen, standing menacingly with a black sharpie in one hand, and a concealed pocketknife in the other. David laid lazily backwards in the bush, like he couldn't control his breathing, or his thoughts for that matter. His eyes were scribbled out with horrific sharpie marks.

"Oh hello, Camp Campbell, it's nice to see you again." Jen tilted her head sideways, her translucent blue eyes catching in the moonlight. "Don't worry, you will all get your turn to become beautiful. Beautiful, beautiful vessels, that the divine Xemug will approve of."

"Keep your fucking hands off of him!" Neil grunted.

"Oh?" Jen said sweetly, "Or else?"

"Or else- or else! I'll kick your ass!" Neil squeaked nervously.

"Where's Space Kid!" Dolph squeaked nervously, tapping his fingers together. 

"I happened to, catch a certain conversation between that one and your dear friend Nurf, and am doing my best to help them turn to the light under Xemug."

"Nurf what is she talk-" Nikki started, before Nurf loudly cut her off with.

"Oh my fucking God, you better leave her alone!" Nurf screamed, angry tears running down his face.

Jen clicked her tongue, "Trust me, I'm doing the greatest good there is. You'll all be saved soon."

A large fear broke out over the camp, Nurf darting into the woods, frantically looking for Space Kid. The others split up to do the same, or take shelter in the camper tents. 

Harrison stood face to face with Jen. "You fucking monster." He croaked, choking back tears. Before he could even rationalize his thoughts, a sloppy, wide swung punch, collided with Jen's face.

"Oh fuck, oh fuck-" Harrison mumbled under his breath, "I- I didn't mean to-"

Jen angrily stood up. "I am doing the work of the divine and you wish to intervene?"

"No I- David! David please!" David hastily climbed up from where he was laying, albeit his mind blurry and disoriented from shock, scooping Harrison up, the small brunette shaking uncontrollably with sobs. Sharpie mark from Jen's DIY plastic surgery burned David's eyes, his eyes running with irritation. David kicked her in the knee, and ran off with Harrison in his arms, scrubbing at his eyes with his free hand. 

"David! David! She's going to kill us! Oh God! David!" Harrison cried as David ran with the boy in his arms. David softly shushed him, pulling the boy closer, still scrubbing the irritating marker out of his eyes. After sprinting across the camp, he softly set the magic boy inside the camper tents, Max flinching a little when the tent door opened. Harrison shook in fear, heavy tears streaming from the magician's face, as his hand tightly interlocked with Max's. The two were trying to stay as quiet and undetectable as possible. David asked who all was hiding in the tents and Max said he was fairly certain it was everyone but Space Kid and Nurf. 

David quickly checked the tents doing a headcount and saw Max was correct. David scrubbed at his sharpied eyes once more, his vision blurry from the irritating chemicals. He looked around the activities field as he ran towards the forest, grabbing a baseball bat that went unused most of the camp season from the supply closet, frantically screaming out for anyone, and everyone who might be out there. 

"Nurf?? Space Kid??" David screamed until his voice felt hoarse, "Please! Where are you!"

Emergency sirens loomed in the distance. Gwen must have called the police. Just a few more minutes, just a few more minutes and everything will be okay. David reassured himself as he searched, like a never-ending mantra.

He found Nurf and Space Kid, situated by the lakeside, Space Kid slumped against the ground, his face scribbled out in the same ugly black sharpie color. A large gash covered from the bridge of their nose to the middle of his freckled cheek. Nurf was shaking him awake.

David ran over as fast as he could. "Oh my Goodness, guys, we have to get out of here, the police will be here soon- but-" 

Nurf nodded, holding out a hand to cut David off. "They're already here, I saw them pull in a minute ago, Jen has been taken or will be soon." Nurf nodded, reassuring himself.

David exhaled in relief, "Let's go find your friends, okay?"

Space Kid pulled herself up, nodding slightly at David.

The three made their way back to the campgrounds, everyone mostly unharmed, a few scrapes and bruises here and there, but that was mostly it. Jen was pulled forcefully into the back of a cop car. Officer Leon gave a curt nod to David in recognition, and they disappeared with Jen.

"That was fucking horrifying." Preston let out a shaky breath.

"This is going to make for a heck of a Campfire Tale someday, yeah?" Space Kid joked, the sun rising softly in the distance, as he scrubbed the squiggly lines off his eyes.