Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

So far, Jake managed to come across two more survivors. Cheryl Mason and Laurie Strode. Unfortunately, the fourth member remains missing throughout the trial. Leaving the escapees confused and despair. It is not enough to go against that goddamn Executioner if they are going to be honest. Pyramid Head is one of the hardest nemesis to escape from, maybe near impossible. From receiving damages to being slowly tormented just for fun. So far, they only activated two generators out of five. Missing one teammate causes the trial to be dragged on to their dismay. Even suffers from intense loss, such as the last one to be alive. 

Currently, Jake is hiding behind the locker with a hand gripping his bleeding sides. His respiration is heavy and is filled with unspeakable agony. Carefully, he wounded his injury inside the compacted space, making sure his elbow wouldn't bump onto the old, rusted metal to alert any attention. That is until he senses it, a familiar aura. Fragile, but it is there. Through the narrow slit which allows him to look through from the inside, a shadow came to view. Soon the figure itself is welcomed into his perspective.” What the. . .” He mumbles, sharpening his gasp. A lone child creeps themselves into the room with their tiny hands grasping onto the straps of their school bag. No, not a young adult. But literally a fucking kid around 7-9 years old?

They are looking around, as if they are lost. Their puffy eyes indicate they have been crying. Right arm hugging a plushie and its fluffy head are damped with their tears and snot. Jake attentively unlocked the locker after seeing there was no threat. Alert of the sound, the child whisk it head toward the source.” Hey kid.” He gently initiates, only to be met by a retrieving child that is inching toward the entrance where they come in from.” I won't hurt you. I'm not a bad person.” He assured and consciously took a step forward, making sure to keep an eye for the killer nearby.” I'm Jake Park. What's your name kid?” 

Hesitation lurks on their face, combining with fear.” M-mommy said not to talk to strangers.” Well, at least they got that real life lesson right. Jake is not a right person to deal with kids and to be honest, he has no clue how to interact with them to begin with. Then, the quicken heartbeat indicated the killer is near and Jake inwardly cusses.” Okay kid, I know that you are not supposed to talk with strangers, but it is really dangerous here.” He looked toward the closed entrance where stomping is nearing their area. Come on, Jake! Think!” He examined his surroundings in panic. He hasn't felt the adrenaline pumping so fast since his first time entered the trial. Unable to protect his own life, now there's a child intruded the realm which they shouldn't be. 

Then his attention focuses on the locker he once hid in and an idea immediately pops into his brain.” Okay kid, why don't we play hide and seek? You hide in the locker and make sure to close your ears, and eyes, okay? If you hear anything, do not ever come out or else a big bad monster will come get you. Understand?” He quickly said, but does not explain in detail of how the rules apply here, considering it will be complicated for their small minds. The responsibility of protecting a child is his first priority now.” Big bad monster?” Certainly the child hasn't trusted him yet and is confused with everything.” Yes, you will lose if you get caught. And you don't want that, do you?” Jake can't bring himself to say that they will get hurt or die. 

The child nodded and Jake seized this opportunity to guide him inside the locker. Before he shuts the door, the child speaks up.” T-then, where is Jake going?” The child hugged their plushie tighter, set of doe eyes meeting his. A bang of guilt wash over Jake as he contemplates what is the right answer. He doesn't know if he will get hooked or luckily survive.” Will Jake come back?” His heart throbs at their sad tonal that is threatening to cry.” I will.” Smiling softly as the last act of assurances. Jake extended his right hand, petting their soft locks,” Be a good girl/boy and wait here.” With that being said, Jake reluctantly shut the locker and immediately dash toward the door. 

Just as he expected, Pyramid Head is a few feet away, dragging his inhumanly large sword toward his direction.” Over here, Doritos!” He yelled, purposely adding insult to get his full attention and get him away from this part of the map. He needed to stall time at least and round him as far as the map could go. He can't let the monster see the child or else he can't imagine their fate. 

After attaching the third victim onto the hook, Pyramid Head pursue to search for the last survivor as an offering for the Entity.” Argh! Come back here, Doritos! We are not done–nngh–yet! Fuck!” Jake cursed and already knew his fate would be short. His mind flashes an image of the (H/C)-haired child and is concern over their well-being instead of feeling soreness on his shoulder. Even though he doesn't know the child for long, he could sense a dread of failure for being unable to protect a kid. He is an adult for freak sake.

Pyramid Head did not idle any longer as he sauntered into the path that would eventually lead him to the fourth survivor, thus ending the trial and obtaining his reward. Departing from the hooking room, Pyramid Head set his target straight. Turning from corners to corners while pulling the weight of his weapon without beating a sweat. No generator activation sound. As if Pyramid Head is a sole existence in this area. Searching all over the map over and over again, still sensing no presence. Odd. . .

Frustrated at the empty discovery, only to be wasting his time. But his task is to offer his god’s fulfillment, so he can't quit. Momentarily, he heard it. Tiny, patty footsteps approaching from behind. Supporting his wielded knife in one hand as he prepare to strike after twirling around to face–

A miniature human.

“. . . . .”

Pair of (E/C) irises ascended, meeting his blood-stained mask. His half-lifted weapon was stuck in its position, including his whole posture which forgot how to breathe.” W-where is Jake?” The toddler courageously ask, yet their body is shrinking due to Pyramid Head’s intimidating figure. The Executioner did not respond for a moment as his brain could not process that his target is a little child who is barely ten. Unlike those adult-teen where many survivors are either 18 or above. But isn't this human way too young to be here? The killer even forgot his own mission. For the first time in life, Pyramid Head dropped his Great Knife due to stun. 

Chapter Text

A bang from the knife dropped onto the solid ground erupts cries into the atmosphere. Finally realised what he had done, Pyramid Head slowly brought his weapon back into his grasp, only to have the kid shrink backward. There is nothing but pure innocent aura surrounding the child. No guilt or inner torment. There is nothing he can cast punishment upon. Before the child can escape, Pyramid Head seizes one large step forward, hauling the child underneath his armpit like they weighs nothing. Light as a feather, maybe even lighter, like air. A yelp parted from their trembling lips when their feets were being raised.

“ Waaaah!” A shrill wail send vibration into his iron mask and the killer try not to wince at how loud it is shaking his inner organs. Composing himself, Pyramid Head proceeds to walk down a path in order to find the hatch before time runs out. The tiny stuff wiggles within his biceps and the attack from the plushie is only a mere tickle. Unlike those survivors where he will stagger on his foot whenever they struggle, meanwhile this kid is so easy to manage and carry around. Eventually their cries turn into sobs and sniff, additionally their body stops fighting and is limping in his arm.

“ A-are you going to eat me?” Pyramid Head unable to recognise the question and continued his stroll. The arm wielding the knife now rests on his shoulder after learning the kid can't deal with loud noises, or else he will suffer his weeping. He didn't respond.” I-I'm not tasty. . .” 

Later, Pyramid Head opened a certain room where the hatch is located. With a few steady steps, near enough to kneel down on one leg, grasping the handle and yank it apart. Without uttering a single word or a warning gesture, he throws the kid into the hatch where darkness immediately envelops their vision. A scream ripped from their throat at the quick fall as tears breeze into the air. Their small frame landed on the soft grass and mud in a thud. Slowly, the child pushes themselves up, hiccups singing from their larynx. Wet whimpers and whine slipped from their puffy lips, including fists furiously drying their drenched eyes, causing burn to form.

“ Did you hear that?”

“ I think it is coming from this direction. . .”

Careful whispers floated in the atmosphere, alarming the child to look at the moving bushes. A hiccup automatically drags from their gaping mouth on the inching presence. When the branches and leaves push apart, there's multiple tall figures appearing in front.” Kid!” Jake instantly approaches forward, pushing his friend to the side during the process.” Jake?” The toddler blink their blurry irises, trying to adjust their dark surrounding.” Are you okay? What have he done?” The adult asked worriedly and gently kneel down to help wipe their teary eyes with his sleeve.” Are you hurt?” The child shakes their head in response. 

“ He/she is the kid you mentioned as the new survivor?” A foreign voice questions and gasps at the end.” Awww, poor thing.” 

Carefully, Jake brought the child into his arms and his posture was awkward. His eyes roam all over their small frame, noting there is lack of injuries other than dried mud clinging onto their outfits.” Y-you never come back. Jake is a big, bad liar.” A bang of guilt hangs heavily in his heart.” I'm so sorry, kiddo.” Jake has no excuse, not like he can tell a kid the exact reason since it would be inappropriate for their young age to understand.” Did the bad guy. . . hurt you?” Jake hesitantly asked and a sigh of relief expressed from him when seeing them shakes their heads.” What happened?” 

“ T-the monster throws me and then I am here. . .” The child responds and their croaky voice is audible after bawling.” I think he means the hatch.” Claudette guesses, earning some nod in return. The kid stares warily at the extra three adults and unconsciously cling onto Jake.” Hey little girl/boy, I'm Meg Thomas. What's your name?” She tenderly asked and a sweet smile formed on her face. It is nothing but a disguise to hide her despair, considering she can't let a child see such negativity. The child pauses for a moment, unsure whether they are trustable or not. Doe eyes descended and a shy mumble slipped from their pouty lips.” (Y/N) (L/N). . .” 

“ Didn't your parents told you not to tell your name to strangers?” Jake teases, earning embarrassment from the child who dug their face into the plushie. Their introversion is adorable in the adult's viewpoint and hope they will preserve their innocence forever.” What should we do?” Meg, Claudette and Jake turn toward Dwight who has been awkwardly quiet.” U-umm, we should bring him/her back to the group.” He suggested and his whole posture tells everyone that he has no clue how to deal with the newest member. 

When they proceeded in the direction toward the campfire, a yawn erupted from (Y/N), gaining everyone's attention. All fours switch their focus on the child leaning their head against Jake’s chest while hugging the plushie close to their miniature figure. They said nothing other than walking quietly and avoid crushing branches plus dried leaves. When the bushes are clear and the path is no longer blocked, place in the middle is a campfire surrounded by multiple teammates.” Is that a child you're holding?” Laurie questions once laying eyes on the sleeping figure. Stun is what describes everyone's face.” You don't think the Entity. . .” Yun-Jin paused, couldn't believe it was intentional or not. 

“ I can't believe that monster brought a child here.” David grumbled, feeling rage just from thinking about it.” Look, we don't know where he/she came from. But there is no possible way we are able to bring him/her back.” Jake utter, feeling both annoyance and sympathetic at the same time.” We can't save ourselves, then who is taking care of the kid?” Nea glance at Jake who did the same to others. Each member steals one glimpse through a quiet moment. Two survivors, Ash Williams and Felix Richter raised their hands. The survivors is aware of the fact that the duo have children before getting abducted into this realm.

“ But what happens if the kid got dragged into the trial? I don't think he/she is old enough to touch the generators nor outrun the killers.” Quentin said his concern and it is a better description to highlight a kid being incompetent.” We also can't guarantee that he/she will get hurt. It would be lucky if the killer would spare a kid.” Feng Min shrugged. Of course that is the most concerning subject out of the rest.

The night is filled with mumbling plans regarding the new survivor’s well-being. Amidst their discussion, the child remains sleeping soundly in Jake's arms. The fire flickers softly as dots of light spread into the air, but got overpowered by darkness. 

The break is up.

Dark mist swirls around the next chosen players. David King, Kate Denson, Leon Scott Kennedy and. . .

To everyone's horror, the child begins to fade to join the rest. All Jake can grasp onto is nothingness. The weight disappears along with the bodily warmth press securely in his hold. Chaos ensues in the survivor’s campfire. 

Meanwhile, (Y/N) remained unfazed as they rolled into their favourite position, digging into the bed beneath for more comfort. Unbeknownst to them that they have been transported into the MacMillan estate. 

Chapter Text

“ Have you guys seen the kid?” Kate asked worriedly after meeting up with Leon and David. All three crouched down behind a pallet as they discussed quietly. To everyone's horror, they didn't.” Okay, David and I will distract the killer and fix the generator. Kate, you go find the kid.” Leon briefs a plan, placing a role on one other. They nodded in understanding before heading to different directions. The men proceed in the location toward the generators, meanwhile Kate began her search. 

The Trapper has no clue what else to say other than standing in front of his bed, watching a random kid slept on it. There's no need for an explanation. This child is a survivor. Just from the aura alone, he could feel it. The killer remains frozen and unsure how to approach this situation. Never in his entire life working under the Entity will he encounter a small survivor. Then the kid shifts in their position due to the roaring sound from afar. A generator has been activated without his knowledge. It drives the kid to open their eyelids, blinking in their wake.

“ Mmm. . .” (Y/N) slowly rubbed their eyes, trying to adjust their blurry vision. Their first sight is an unknown man standing before them. Alarm, (Y/N) shuffle backward while gripping their plushie to ease off their tension. Now Trapper feels trapped in difficulty of how to deal with a child. The obvious fear and confusion is written all over their features. And Trapper sure hopes they will not cry. The killer pauses, trying to contemplate what's his next move whilst the kid stares at him warily.

“ I. . . will not hurt you.” Softening his raspy voice is impossible and it sounded so wrong even to himself. Trapper was unable to count the number of days he had spoken, especially one that mimicked tenderness. (Y/N) remained still and didn't move.” You will not eat me?” Trapper shakes his head to confirm their agitation and does not comprehend where they get that idea from. (Y/N) hesitated to move and the pressure they apply when holding the plushie convince Trapper that they haven't trusted him yet. The abrupt blast echo from the distance immediately activated Trapper’s killing instinct. The second generator has been triggered. 

There's no time to waste even though Trapper is curious about the child’s existence. Twirling around as he storms out from the same space as (Y/N) and prepares to find the survivors. His heavy boots slammed against the wet mud, chipping the pebbles aside. A weak tapping step was heard on his rear, encouraging Trapper to turn around, noting the miniature figure following him. Due to their height difference, Trapper’s walk means running for the toddler. The backpack bounced on their back as they skipped and it didn't take long for them to go out of breath.

At the front lay an innocent bear trap and Trapper needs to move aside to skip it. Still, he turned around to check for the kid’s safety. It would be unavoidable for him to make a mistake if an accident happened to them. Blame the unlit area, the kid failed to realise the trap below. Before their tiny feet come in contact with the sharp jaws, Trapper swiftly snatches a hold of their backpack and yanks them upward.” Wow!” (Y/N) squeaked at the unforeseen action where they are held hostage underneath Trapper’s armpit. This is the exact embrace which Pyramid Head holds them as they could remember.

“ D-don’t eat me!” (Y/N) whimpers with their limbs dangle in the air and attempt to wiggle out from his grasp. Trapper still couldn't understand how the kid's mind work. Anyway, he decided that his current task is to give this kid back to the survivors and then continue with his job as a killer. Hearing his lack of response, (Y/N) really think they will be consumed into the monster’s belly. Their sobbing turned into a loud blown cry.” WAAAAAH!” The ear piercing scream stunned Trapper who was not prepared for the assault. It also echoed throughout the map, alerting the survivors nearby. He failed to detect a figure dashing toward them and by the time he composed himself, the kid was not in his bicep anymore. 

Kate ran as fast as she could once she stole the kid from the killer and refused to look back. She holds the kid’s face onto her chest to block out their weeping. Finding an abandoned shed, Kate finally releases the child from being suffocated. Her t-shirts are damp with tears and snot, but she doesn't mind.” Are you hurt, (Y/N)?” Kate glances down at the child in her arms who is alarmed by the stranger.” My name is Kate. I'm Jake's friend. I'm a good person.” She introduced, hoping to assure the kid that she meant no harm. Her eyes scan for any injuries and to her relief, (Y/N) is harmless for now. Crouching down to their height in order to help with cleaning their tears off their chubby cheeks. She purposely squeezed them, earning a gasp from (Y/N).” Sorry, you're just so cute~.” She coos, pinching their right cheeks the second time. Pouting at the sting, (Y/N) swat her offending hand away and folded their arms firmly. 

Despite Kate really wanting to get to know the kid more, for now they have an important mission to perform.” Follow me.” She held their smaller palm into her own and guided them out from the hiding spot. Kate keeps a lookout for any sign of danger and also checks for traps. The scream resonates from afar causes (Y/N) to flinch and automatically stick closer to the adult.” Everything will be fine.” Kate assured, but can't guarantee their safety. Trusting her teammates to fetched whoever is on the hook. 

Ultimately, she came across a generator lying in the middle of the east field. Teaching the child how to use it will consume great amounts of time, also it is too dangerous for them to come in contact with it, afraid it will injure them.” Stay here, (Y/N). Don't make a sound.” Kate instructed, receiving a nod from the child. Then she twirls around and crouches down for the purpose of whisking her slender palms into the engine.” What are you doing?” (Y/N) perked up behind her.” I am fixing the machine. Take a step back, I don't want you to get hurt. Also, speak quietly.” The kid did as they were told, following each instruction clearly.” Okie~.” She smiled at their obedience before resuming where she left. She can't have the child getting involved with the blast if she messes up. 

The kid shortly becomes bored as they watches and unable to stay standing still. Noticing their fidgeting, Kate decided to initiate silently, hoping it wouldn't alert any danger.” How old are you, (Y/N)?” She muttered underneath her breath, eyes focusing on multicoloured wires.” I am eight years old.” They responded, grinning from ears to ears. Kate takes a note of the digit and is content that the child is not nervous since their current location is eerily creepy. The careful footsteps catches (Y/N)’s attention and they immediately glue themselves near Kate.” Don't be scared, (Y/N). It's our friend.” Kate reassured, sensing her companion approaching where they were at.

Pair of (E/C) irises glance up at the new man appearing before them.” Hey.” Leon nodded in acknowledgement, crouching down on the opposite side of the generator to help mend the object.” (Y/N), his name is Leon.” The female introduces.” Where's David?”

“ He's acting as bait.” 

When the two adults engaged in conversation which (Y/N) had no clue of, they began to zone out.

As time ticked by, the generator burst into liveliness and it was their cue to run.” Come on, (Y/N).” She did not wait for the kid to respond before pulling them into their pace. Unable to keep up with how fast her long legs are sprinting, meanwhile got yanked along to their utmost dismay.” Aah!” (Y/N) ultimately tripped and scraped their knees.” (Y/N)!" She gasped at the sight and kneel down to comfort them. Their expression contorted into one that is going to cry. Leon cursed under his breath at the sudden heartbeat drumming in their ears.” No, no, no, no, no. Don't cry. It's going to be fine–.”

“ Waaah!” 

Leon immediately seized the weeping child up after noticing a large silhouette emerge from the misty surface.” Go!” He ordered and sprinted off with the child in his arms. There's a wordless plan formed between the two considering they are accustomed to the game structure. Kate acts as the decoy and directs herself toward the Trapper. 

Trapper’s dark gaze meets those innocent ones which are filled with tears. Then shifted on the bleeding knee sway underneath Leon’s armpits. Despite the fact that he doesn't know the child for long and they are partially strangers. He couldn't stop the growing anger upon finding the survivor is the cause of the child’s injury and his sadness. 

Chapter Text

All survivors waited anxiously for their teammates to arrive back. Once they heard multiple crunching footsteps sound, they all twisted their heads at the arrival." How's the trial? Is the kid okay?" Claudette asked as she approached the three." Where's the kid?" All eyes stared down at their empty hands and a look of panic soon drew onto their faces." We don't know. I remember we ran past the gate! He/She is with us!" Kate tries to explain, her sweaty face is pale from the discovery. There is only one reason as to why the kid did not accompany them during their escape." The Entity. . ." Dwight mumbled under his breath, meanwhile Cheryl caught it.

" What do you mean, Dwight?" She becomes wary to the point her eyebrows furrowed. The glasses man rubbed his skull as to what he assumed. Being one of the first and longest survivors gives him perks of information." He is being summoned by the Entity." Jake ended briefly. Rarely will they have an individual meeting with the Entity. Unfortunately, they can't tell anyone outside as to what has been converse. Also, whatever memories they have when encountering the Entity is fuzzy. Unable to remember how the monster looks like, nor their sounds. There's a few survivors who have been confronted before, yet they explained that they can't remember what had occurred.

" Is he/she going to be alright?" Cheryl asked, rubbing her arms due to nervous impulse kicking in. The first survivor members are quiet and unable to answer her question. 

Pair of (E/C) irises blinks open and then raises their chubby fists to rub away the tears." Leon?" They called out, looking around the void space. Confusion and anxiety spread all over their nerves as they looked around just to find nothing. Their short little legs began to paddle, trying to look for someone or an exit. Their disoriented states of mind did not bring them far before their feet came in contact with something, bringing them to a fall. Something curled around their abdomen, preventing the land from happening. A sharp object pulled them to stand on their toes before retracting. Unable to see clearly due to the darkness, but an echoing voice is clear in their ears." Hello?" 

Their own voices resonate into the surface. Glancing around, trying to find the source of whispery voices and the touch that was once wrapped around their tummy." Do you know how you got here, child?" The said person tilted their head to the side, and couldn't figure out whether it is a woman's or man's sound. Still, they shake their heads in fear due to the gravelly vocal similar to those horror stories they heard so much about. Their hands held onto the plushie close to their chest as a sign of comfort." Don't cry, child." It spoke after noticing visible tears began extracting from their gland. A solid object wipes their puffy eyelids, and the texture is similar to a spear." I w-wanna go home. . ." 

The limb soon retracted, though it was silent for a moment." It is out of my ability." (Y/N) is confused at the response, but dislikes the sound of it. They have always been a crybaby and it did not change the fact that they cry over little things." I wanna see mommy and daddy!" They hug their plushie tighter, crying so loud that it resounds across the space." I'm scared! I want to go home! I don't want to be eaten!" 

Instead of calming the child down or cleaning its tears, the Entity sits on the throne as it watches the kid throwing a tantrum. Waiting patiently for the storm to come and go. Eventually their weeping stops, however, the ugly sight of tears and snots covered their face. They use their shirts to wipe it clean and a visible pout displayed on their exterior." There is no place for you to return to, child." Again, (Y/N) have no clue why they are being caged in here and why the refusals. All they know is that this place is not where they belong. Or whatever nightmare they are having right now. Then the scenery changes. Instead of a dark area lacking in anything, in front of them is soil and skinny trees with crows resting on top. Looking around, baffled at the alteration that looks like magic. The landscape is familiar and (Y/N) recognise where they are at. 

In the end, they did not get an answer and their young brain couldn't understand what was happening. Their small foot bring itself toward the campfire's location. 

The news spread like wildfire amongst the killers regarding a particular, new survivors. When they first witness a child no older than 8, running amok on trial leaves them stunned at their place. It is difficult to adjust to the new presence. From fighting between curiosity or focusing on their job. One thing they all have in common is encountering the kid's cries. It froze them on spot due to the loudness, also the tinnitus affecting their ears and distorted their senses. It is worse than getting blind by flashlight, or the obstacles of pallets and windows, and decisive stab. It takes them 10 seconds to get back on their track afterward, giving the survivors good enough time in processing the generators. Which is why the killers try to be careful around the kid considering they don't want to be the victim of their wail. Also, it takes time to calm them down. 

Even though the survivors are divided into groups regarding their opinions about the kid. First, they can't run fast and need to be carried all the time, which delays their escape. Second, they can't fix a generator. Once Ash and Felix tried to teach the kid how to repair it, unluckily blows onto the kid's face and the pain caused them to screech into tears, alerting the killer of their location. Third, (Y/N) can be a brat sometimes which gives them a handful of trouble. Fourth is where not many people agree. If they find a hiding spot, some survivors empathetically let the kid conceal first while they will either find another area or distract the killer. Meanwhile for those who put their lives first will seize the opportunity, while pushing the kid away. This is how the team which was together, split due to some circumstances that happened in the trial. 

The perks which the kid had is stunning those killers, and using them as a source of distraction. Many disagreed on putting the kid in danger. Then Nea told her companions that she witnessed the Wraith following the kid. Veiled and unseen. Considering nobody got hurt in the trial that time ascribed to Wraith's obsession with the kid, who secretly hidden in plain view just to trail behind (Y/N) and watch them. Also generators are easily activated, meanwhile the Wraith haven't hurt anyone yet. Which is why she assumed the kid was merely followed and unharmed. Some even voice out that they saw the Clown, member of the Legions and Ghost-face playing with the kid on trial. 

After observing the relationship between (Y/N) and the killers, it is safe to say that the kid can be used as a diversion. But they still need to keep a safe eye on the toddler. 

The kid is like a protection charm. Whoever carries the kid or has them by their side, the killer won't try to hurt them because of the kid's presence. Even though they are bloodthirsty murderers, at least they have conscience about not performing violence in front of a kid.

The backpack which the kid constantly carries can act as an inventory. Since the kid never gets hurt or killed on trial, they use the kid’s backpack to store the items they had found so they wouldn't lose it if they got out. If the Entity is generous that day, it will fill the kid’s backpack with items, which saves the team's energy to find a chest. 

Some may say the kid is useless and couldn't afford any help, while the rest argued back to defend (Y/N). 

Chapter Text

I skipped on my tiptoes with the backpack bounces on my shoulder. The plushie was dragged by my left and I always remember to carry it with me." Was it your mommy's gift?" I ascended my neck, glancing up at Claudette who was accompanying me. Holding the plushie into my arms as I try to recollect how I got (F/N). My eyebrows scrunched together as I can't find any answer. After I was thrown into this place, I can't recall anything from the past. Everything is blank." Hmmm. . ." Is all I can afford to answer and confusion is definitely written on both of our faces. Claudette said nothing, but she is suspicious." Hey (Y/N). . . What is your mom's and dad's name?"

" Hmmm, I don't know." I shrugged, playing with the plushie paws." Where do you go to school?" She pursued to throw questions and I casually answered." Don't know." For some reason, Claudette becomes upset and I wonder if I did something wrong." We should go back." Claudette suddenly changed the subject and led the two of us to turn around. Everyone said it is bad to walk far away from the campfire, saying monsters will come get you. Whenever I want to go for a stroll to explore the forest, the adults will accompany me. The area has a wide range and there's also half of the map which I haven't scout yet. Even though they said the campfire is our safe zone, they still said there is monsters lurking in the bushes if we went too far. 

Despite listening to them all the time, I am very curious about what lies before the river. So I decided to make it my mission to cross it! Without the adults finding out! When some others are on trial and the rest are either resting or distracted with minors talking, I quietly sneak out from the campfire." Let's go, (F/N)! We have to explore the map!" I giggled quietly to myself and skillfully creep off. My attention focuses downward where my shoes tap against the soil, skipping the dried leaves and branches so I wouldn't alert any sound. The light becomes dim the more I distance myself from the campfire. Focusing on random paths and going on a straight line. 

Soon I came across the rivers which separated the forest. It is always running, though I have no clue where the water usually flows from. The mist covered majority of my views, squinting my eyes is near impossible due to being nighttime. I hop onto the stones sticking above the water and careful not to slip. Grinning to myself at how balanced I am and effortlessly avoiding the splash. Once I set foot onto the other side of the soil, I didn't look back at the campfire and pursue my journey. The forest around this area appeared to be similar to our camp. Tall trees everywhere, crows chilling on top of the branches, wet soil, rocks, etc. The difference is that I noticed some scratches on the trees, also a trail of something heavy being dragged across the dirt. There's also some weird goo sticking on the bushes like some web. The area is colder and I found myself hugging my plushie closer.  

Suddenly, I felt a rough hand capture my jaw, silencing my scream before my whole body was lifted off the ground." Mmm—!" A muffled noise is all I can express when I watch my plushie drop onto the ground. My vision blurred at the thought of fear corrupting my chest and tears automatically leaked out from my irises. My small body is unable to struggle underneath those strong strength restraining me. My sight is fuzzy, but one thing I can perceived is the bunny mask they wore, additionally they are extremely tall. Due to lack of air entering my lungs, I eventually blackout. 

3rd POV

There is a lone child entering the killer's domain, and Huntress is the first person to discover their presence. No survivor dares to step foot into their den and this is a first. She had heard rumours regarding a child from other killers, and had always wanted to see it herself. But she never encountered one during her trial. So finally, she found it. Miniature, motherless, innocent, fragile and adorable. There's a growing desire in her heart as if that is the only emotion she can feel. Her mind stops thinking and body moves on its own. She is going to make this child hers. To protect them and keep them safe back in her hut. 

Until an hour later, the four members of the Legion tumble across the area. Julie is the first person to find an abandoned toy lying innocently on the ground, now covered slightly in dirt.” Why is the kid’s toy here?” They all shrugged their shoulders in unison. Everyone knows that survivors have no guts to cross the border. However, except for one naïve toddler.” That kid, what is his/her name again?” Frank turned toward the rest.” (Y/N).” Susie replies, being the closest one to the child.” You don't think he/she is. . .” Joey paused and didn't want to assume the worst. 

They have no clue why the kid is doing in the killer’s domain and why he/her got separated from their toy. Because they knew the fact that the kid always held the toy with them and never once let go.” We need to find the kid asap!” Julie exclaimed, placing the plushie safely into her pockets.” Who do you think did it?” Joey questions and the four shared a good moment of pondering.” Freddy.”

” The twin?”

“ A-Anna.”

“ Chucky.”

All fours have different answers regarding who they suspected.” W-we should hurry. We can't be sure what will h-happen to (Y/N). . .” Susie said and is extremely concerned for the kid. They all nodded and decided to pay the killers who they had mentioned, a visit.” The closest realm is the nightmare.” Joey informed and all Legion agreed to investigate that particular killer first. 

Chapter Text

" The fuck are you brats doing here?" Freddy growled at the sight of the teenagers. Since they had bad history between them due to the teens love to play pranks on his realms and always leave a mess. Technically not many get along with the Legion due to their age difference, contrasting backstory and personality. Also their constant tricks on other killers. Freddy still remembers how they purposely ignite fireworks in his realm after learning his phobia is fire. Both Frank and Joey confront Freddy while the girls is wandering across the map to find where the kid is hidden

" Tell us where the kid is." Frank straightforwardly said." What kid?" Freddy is confused and enraged just from them stepping into his turf." We all know that you loved children. Don't play dumb." Freddy feels like he is being accused of a crime he didn't commit after hearing Joey's words. Just because he worked in a preschool and has a soft spot for kids doesn't mean he views them in a creepy way. That is the one reason why he dislikes society after his death, nobody has the empathy to hear what he has to say." Be careful of what you say, brats." His claws twitch as if on the brink of slashing them apart." We are telling the truth." Joey defended. Surely Freddy can sense their disgust behind the masks and it is not the first time he is being looked that way. Anger shimmers into the surface of being blamed for something he is innocent of.

Instinct takes over as he decides to murder these adult-teens. Making the nightmare angry is easy and the two Legion quickly evaded the attack from his right claw. Both also got their knives out to defend themselves. 

By the time the girls finished roaming around the map and discovered no presence all at, they decided to meet up with the boys. Just as they were about to exit from Springwood, they came across three figures fighting." Let's go boys!" Joey shouted to catch their attention and is already on a run with Susie. As if understanding their signals, both males stopped the brawl against Freddy and sprinted toward opposite directions. Leaving the nightmare stunned to chase after who, since they all went on different paths. 

" You can't find the kid?" Both Susie and Julie shake their heads in sync." Then we wasted our lives for nothing." Joey shakes his head, still feels the burn from the gash. Since they are not survivors, they are unable to heal themselves and need to wait for their trials to begin so their body can regenerate automatically. Which they don't know when." W-we should check Anna's place. I-i got a bad feeling from there. . ." Susie utter quietly, but audible enough for adjacent people to hear." You two stay here." Julie instructed the injured males who were holding their bloody biceps, stomachs and shoulders. She grimaced at the numbers of wounds they had suffered from Freddy, knowing he is a professional killer, unlike them." We're going." Frank can't even walk properly and needs to limp when he takes a step. 

Julie pressed her dominant palm flat against his chest, pushing him from seizing a single foot." No, Frank." She shakes her head." You can't win against the Huntress." Joey tries to negotiate a free pass to go, considering they always stick together." We'll be careful. You know we are good at sneaking in and out like a mouse." She assured and Susie agreed by nodding her head. The males are silent as they watch determination flare in her eyes." Be careful." Frank said lastly and is concerned for his friends." We will." Julie sends a comfort pat on his shoulder before signalling Susie to depart.

As they set their foot into the Red Forest, they increase their senses when walking through the fog. They knew Huntress is someone you wouldn't want to mess with since she is one of the earliest killers in the realm. The two scattered across the map in order to find her cabin, also avoiding her traps, knowing she placed them down to hunt living foods. Susie is the first person to come across her cabin, nonetheless, she doesn't have time to inform Julie who is on the west side of the map. Thus she headed in alone. Crouching down as she walked around the old wooden house, then peaked her head up to see through the opened window. 

Immediately, she shrunk down after discovering Anna was boiling her pot by the fireplace. Since her back is facing the window, she hasn't realised a quiet mouse has invaded her home. The pink-haired had checked that both the backdoor and front door are locked, clicking her tongue at how secure the house is. Then her entire body halted upon hearing the front door open and quickly pressed herself against the east side of the wall. Tilting her neck to glance at the leaving Huntress who is holding her axe as if preparing to hunt animals to feast on. Once her entire figure disappeared down the foggy path, she seized this opportunity to enter her property. Luckily the Legion held resemblance with survivor’s skills. Stealth.

The pot is boiling water from what she can see and the cutting board has well-sliced vegetables, plus meat. Exploring the ground floor first as she opened different doors to check for any sign of life, including the basements. Then she head upstairs and as her shoes come in contact with the stair, it creaks. Carefully applying light pressure as she ascend. After reaching the top, she resumes her search by opening all sorts of doors she can find. Fortunately, amongst the rest of the rectangular frame, the last and also the main is her bedroom. Over the corner, ahead on right lies a makeshift bed made from animal skin and grass. Her heart quickened to discern a sleeping child unaware of their surroundings. 

She approached them quickly before kneeling down. Extending her hand out to press onto (Y/N)’s chest, noticing signs of breathing. Then consciously inspect for any hints of injury. To her relief, the child is just unconscious.” We're going to get you out of here.” She mumbled and protectively held them up. A child's body is light and many months of running, plus lifting survivors have helped her gain muscles. Did not dwell any longer, she slipped away. Susie refused to look back at the cabin after reaching the front door and instantly moved into the woods. 

Now that she has the child, she has a mission to find her separated partner and flee from this realm. Her feet ceased running after a flash came from her behind and an axe hit against a trunk before her. Breathing escalated when twirling around to detect a familiar figure standing a few feet away. The hand that is holding three lifeless crows dropped onto the ground in favour of grabbing another axe. Her feet automatically tread backwards, alarmed by the Huntress’ hostility. Her dark eyes glanced at Susie and then the kid hugged around her arms. Even without the mask, Susie knows the woman is angry for stealing her children. Aware of both her lore and characteristics, Susie knew running away is the best option. 

So she did exactly what her instinct tells before another weapon aimed on her. 

Chapter Text

Susie tries not to trip before rocks or branches when she runs for her life. The slippery mud did nothing to help in balancing her movements, especially since she is carrying an extra weight." Он/Она мой(He/She is mine)!" The Huntress' voice resound all over the surface, vibrating throughout her anxious nerves. The kid bounces whenever she leaps a step and her arms curl protectively around their smaller frame. She knew sooner or later, she would be outrun. Amongst the Legion, many knew she is the weakest. Her breathing fastened due to rapid inhalation in her lungs." Susie!" A recognisable sound entered her ears, helps in lessening her anxiety.

Swiftly avoiding the obstacles of trees and boulders, Julie jumped onto Anna's unprotected back, interrupting her chase. The older woman growls threateningly as she attempts to get the offending obstacles off." Julie!" The pink-haired is alarmed when eyeing how her friend is grappling onto the rabbit masked killer's neck. Unfortunately, it only requires one arm from Anna to effortlessly peel her off by yanking her hoodie. She watches frighteningly as her friend forcefully dropped onto the ground with a heel pressing against her ribcage, thus ceasing her struggle. Anna's heavy foot applies pressure, sinking pain to sprout all over Julie's abdomen." Run!" She managed to scream out, transmission rumble from her chest, travelling to the surface of Anna's foot. 

Pure hesitation is visible on Susie's features as she refused to move on her feet. Julie automatically sank her small knife into Anna's ankle as the last attempt of diversion." Ты--(You)!" The Huntress groaned at the impel and immediately kicked her hand away, along with the knife. Instead of chopping her head off as for how Julie had anticipated, Anna simply kicked her head with a single swing. Since they have been associated with one another since working with the entity, Anna is not heartless to cause immense pain toward her colleagues, nor finish them off. Noticing the young woman had gone unconscious from the hit on her skull and is breathing softly to show sign of life, Anna then focuses her main task on hand. There is nothing but empty presence left from whom she presumed stood there earlier. 

A sharp hiss on her clenched teeth to reveal her displeasure before carrying on with the journey to find her child back. 

" I need to go back! But I can't just leave the child!" Susie argued mentally regarding two decisions. Saving her long-term friend, which means she needs to hide the child somewhere to be unfindable. It is unsaved, at the same time hindering her ability to move fast nor capable to defend herself. In the end, they did not make it out from the Huntress' territory. An abrupt affliction sunk into her right wing and the heaviness from the blow encourage her to fall face first. Twisting her torso to protect the child from being hurt during the impact, therefore her right arm became the cushion of collapsing. She could clearly hear a snap from her shoulder joint due to two different weights. But her dislocated bone is not her main priority.

Blinking her teary eyes as she caught a glimpse of a rusty axe stuck on her back where an indescribable ache spread through her bloodstream. Her whole body winces at the sound of dead leaves being crushed under heavy feet, calling for her attention to snap at the approaching figure which all the crows are heeding too." F-fuck!" Even though there is obvious fear, it helps to pump her adrenaline toward her legs to shuffle backwards. She knew she couldn't win and was not as brave as her teammates, but that didn't stop her from enjoying the risk. Still, even a killer afraid of death. 

Throughout all the chaos, the kid remains resting in her solid grips and no amount of squeezing or shouting can wake them up. Majority of Anna's concentration is solely on the kid who is not supposed to be in someone else's arms except for hers. The thief who dared to separate her from her child. It is an unforgivable crime. When they are one metre apart, Susie becomes further alarmed and expects her ending to be gruesome.

" Hey bitch!" 

The sound echoed into their ears. The dreaded tranquillity was disturbed by a new presence. With fearful, widened eyes behind the mask, Susie watches as the Huntress stumbles on her advance ascribed to the assault catching her off guard. Her saviour is unforeseeable and even herself is stunned. Freddy fucking Krueger." Stop gawking and get your ass moving!" His yell directed on the frozen adult-teen who went stiff on the ground. Then he rotated his neck to focus on Anna. Both killers are here nearly as long as the Trapper. Which means Freddy is possible to go one-to-one with Anna. No hesitation is required before Susie jumps up from her wobbling feet and pursues to find an exit whilst disregarding her wound oozing blood. The last thing she heard is Freddy diverting Anna's attention by taunting her, then metal clashing. 

" Haa! Huuh! Whew~!" The pink-haired panted as she successfully escaped from the Huntress' realm. Finally, her legs give out when discerning her two friends from ten feet away who never once left their promised meet-up place." What happened to you?!" Joey immediately attached himself to her sides and concerns filled his tonal." Where's Julie?" Frank questions as he sees no sign of their fourth member returning safely." A-Anna.*Huff*. She got her." Susie regretfully said and each syllable in her sentence is weakening. Joey takes off her mask, perceiving how pale her complexions are, including strands sticking onto her face. 

Both males darted their irises on the axe glueing on her back and internally winced." I'm going to pull it out. Be prepared because it's going to hurt." Susie shakes her head at the man wearing a skull mask. Frank assists by smoothing his thumbs across her delicate shoulder, then eyed Joey who positions himself on her rear. Susie applies extra pressure into her embrace, not realising she is oppressing the poor kid." Aaaaahh!" Crows spread their wings when an agonising howl resonated all over the sky. A wet-ripping sound accompanied her cries and then a thud. 

Frank makes sure to support her descent when all the energy is robbed from her physique and carefully not to crush the toddler in between them.” You're fine. You're safe. The pain is gone. Yeah? Fuck! Don't go to sleep, Susie Lavoie.” Frank did not dare to touch the deep injury located on her wing and can only rub her lower back, meanwhile keeping her awake. Fragile sobs exhale from her throat and both men are saddened at what she is experiencing.” Look, you have saved the child and you must act strong in front of him/her.” 

“ I-I'm sorry. I left Julie. I-i can't forgive myself.” Both shared a quick exchange before gazing down on the trembling female who is losing her strength to unconsciousness.” You didn't leave her, dumbass. You did a good thing. Without you girls, the kid wouldn't have been safe.” Frank tries to lighten her mood. 

“ You assholes! Did you make my bestie cry again?!” All heads twisted simultaneously at a recognisable voice.” Julie!” Both men shout in unison, but all mood sours at their second guest trailing behind her.” What is he doing here?” Joey pointed accusing fingers at Freddy who glared at his obvious rudeness. The evidence of not wanting to say this leaves Julie no choice.” Guys, he saved us.” Certainly both men were shocked to hear her answer and were left speechless. Julie kneels down to check on her gash, and secondly on the sleeping child.” Huh? This kid seriously slept through the whole situation?” Freddy folded his arms as he stared down at the youth.” Are you sure he's not dead?” 

The Legion shot a scowl on the nightmare who ignored their petty mood.” We should ask the survivors to borrow their med-kit.” Julie suggested after she examined the condition of the cut. Just as she aids Susie back up with the help from Frank, she unintentionally locks her gaze with a pair of (E/C) ones. All adults are unsure whether this is a good time for (Y/N) to be awake or not, since the sight of blood isn't suitable for a child to witness. 

Chapter Text

" You are hurt!" The child bounced into liveliness, adjusting themselves on her lap. The change in their demeanour surprises the adult-teens. Nevertheless, this expression is better than fear. Five pairs of eyes followed the child's movements. Their tiny arms unloop the straps off their shoulders and proceed to unzip the backpack. The Legion all lowered their heads, curiosity filled their gazes, wondering what the kid was searching for. Shortly, (Y/N) pulled out a bandage roll, surgical scissors, sponge, syringe and more. It makes their life easier than requesting the survivors for their med-kit. Not sure they will give it to them due to their background as survivors and killers. Also they held deep hatred toward one another. 

" Hmmm. . ." (Y/N) hummed as they looked at the objects in confusion, not knowing where to start." What's wrong?" Julie asked as she tilted her head down so they could lock eyes equally." I forgot how Claudette used it. . ." They reply, puzzlement is evident on their expression." Here, let me." Julie gently seized those objects out of their little grasp, carefully not to drop them and afraid to contaminate such delicate items." Why don't you go play with Frank and Joey?" The woman directed at the two men in the same tender tone." Hey, I don't–." Frank shut his mouth after a glare was thrown his way. It is scary how Julie quickly changes her facade when facing the kid again. She made sure the men would have no say in her decision. Her objective is to make sure the kid wouldn't see something so gory and that they should remain untainted. 

" Let's go, kid." Frank is blunt when he squat down to (Y/N)'s level, but remains respectful as to not to pull them away from the girls just yet." Is Susie going to be alright?" Their concern tonal cause a throb to rise in their chests." Yeah, she is going to be alright. Now go play with Frank and Joey. You'll be safe with them." Julie assured, petting their soft, growing locks with the surface of her palm. (Y/N) nodded as they turned around to face Frank who immediately stood up before providing one callus hand. They stared at it reluctantly before accepting his offer. Soon they got draw away from the two girls, giving them a private moment to mend Susie's wound.

" Why the fu–are you following us?" Joey turns to glare at Freddy who is trailing close behind them." I don't trust ye brats taking care of the kid." He retorted, earning an eye roll from the skull mask." The person who is dangerous here is you." Joey remarks and is not relentless with his words. Meanwhile (Y/N) wonder why the adults are arguing. It is true that the man wearing a fedora is scary, additionally they are unable to face them directly. Prefer to look at the Legion instead. Since they never saw a human with that kind of skin before. Similar to a nightmare coming straight to life." You are scaring the kid, Freddy." Frank pointed, ceasing the duo's dispute. The nightmare immediately glanced down at the child who refused to meet his gaze. His anger toward the adult-teen dies down and can only look at the child sympathetically. Of course he could tell the discomfort on (Y/N)'s readable face and couldn't find his heart to blame them. They are too young to understand, viewing things different from them as some sort of monster in a storybook. 

" You better not let your eyes off of him/her!" He finalised before retrieving backward, turning toward the opposite direction." Thank god he's gone. Can't stand that old man sometimes." Joey complained dramatically. The loose grasp from the child caught Frank's attention, unaware that the kid had been holding his hand tightly." The monster is scary. . ." Both men unable to stop a chuckle from expressing past their lungs." Yep, he is gone. He won't mess with ya." Frank purposely pet their tiny heads. From his higher perspective, he noted how his palm engulfed their entire skull and was surprised that a kid his/her age will be this miniature." (Y/N), right? I haven't formally introduced myself, I'm Frank, and this idiot over here is Joey."

" Oi!" The said person shoot him a displeased scowl." Last time I remember, who was the dumbass that wore his pants backward!" This time it is Frank who become stunned. A giggle flew past (Y/N)'s mouth, shifting on their fun-size foots due to amusement. Which makes Frank swallow whatever cuss he was about to throw at his friend and remember to be mindful when around the kid's presence." You are Susie's friends?" The mini human question, ascending their head to stare at the duo.

Right, amongst the Legion, only Susie came across the child's appearance during her trial. That day, she gushed about how adorable he/she is and it was their first time seeing how happy she looked. There is also her unintimidated personality with hidden kindness, which makes it easier for people to be unguarded around her." Yeah, kiddo. We are." Frank could not stop himself from rubbing their round, crushable head again, making them try to shy away from his rude caress." The lady said you two will play with me." 

" Ah, he/she meant Julie." The two thought in unison. She is merely bluffing. However, the Legion understands that a child's mind is very trusting. The noun 'faith' did not exist in the entity's realm. Especially they witnessed how untrusting the survivors can be. Most of the time. Including the killers. Though both men could not elaborate or mention it in front of the child. This kid is too pure." Frank. . ." Joey softly called his friend and a hint of worry is audible in his tone. Frank regards him by sharing the same look beneath his mask. They are rather uneasy about how the child survives so far. Did the survivor ever. . . betray him/her? 

" Yeah, we're playing, uuuuh, tag." Upon hearing his suggested game, (Y/N)'s irises sparkle in delight." Oh, oh, oh! I wanna play! I wanna play!" Seeing them hopping on their toes lessened the two men's anxiety. If the kid could still feel happiness, the worse their conjectured up hasn't occurred yet." Joey is going to be 'it'." Frank immediately pointed." Hey, you know I don't like to be 'it'!" He immediately groaned at his friend's decision." You're it! You're it! Hehehe!" Joey wanted to argue and push the role to Frank, but hearing how excited the kid is left him wordless." Fiiiiine~!" Dragging his groan longer before he turns around to face a random tree." I'm gonna count to 10."

" 100."

" Ugh, fine. 1, 2, 3–."

Frank glanced down at the kid, ushering them to follow his lead. They silently skipped into the distance, trying to create as much space between them as possible." Hehehe~!" (Y/N) unable to stop giggling as they run after Frank who is trying to find a safe area to hide. His tall structure blocks the branches from abusing the child, and also serves as a guide, making sure they won't trip." Hey kid, I know just a place to avoid getting caught." The masked man tells with a gleeful attitude. When he dropped his neck down, he noticed the emptiness in his palm." Kid?" His feet came to a halt at the sudden disappearance of the smaller existence." Shit–."

(Y/N) ceased their running foot after noticing they are not being escorted by their new friend." Frank?" They muttered his name as their bright (E/C) irises wander around their current surroundings. Soon they spotted a sign on the opposite street and proceeded to race toward it. Angling their neck at an angle to read the sign tower over them.

” Haddonfield."

Chapter Text

What Joey is not expecting to find is his friend literally coming up to him despite his role is to get away from the person who is 'it'." The kid is gone!" Is the first sentence spewed from his mouth. Joey was left stunned by the turn of events," What do you mean he/she is gone?!". Frank tries to explain that they just disappeared out of thin air while he was distracted for a moment to look for a hiding place." Who is gone?" Came a much more feminine voice, dragging the boys out from their frantic behaviours. Julie and Susie trail side by side as they emerge from the path they've come. A bag hung above Julie's elbow, belonging to the vanished kid. Meanwhile Susie seemingly has no issues in walking despite earlier injury. All thanks to the magical first-aid kit belonging to the survivor which helps to fasten the cure.

" Where is (Y/N)?" Julie asked as she darted her gaze down, trying to spot the said person." Hear me out, Julie. We are playing tag–."" You guys lost him/her?" Her accusations sharply cut Frank's explanation." Yes, but I swear it is not our fault! He/She disappeared suddenly!" Joey tries to defend his buddy and himself, not preparing to receive her wrath." Maybe he/she got dragged to trial. . ." Susie meekly interrupted. Both of them sighed in relief when Julie's anger died down just from her comment." But still, you two dumbasses think it is a good idea to play tag in the killers' realm? Can you imagine what they will do to a kid?! Remember what happened between the Huntress! What if something worst transpire to (Y/N) if he/she were to lost and were left to track down by the other killers! Do you even have brains!" Julie continues to lecture them. While Susie can only watch her male friends with sympathy. 

" Achoo!" Snot escaped from my nostrils after I sneezed. The ticklish sensation spread across my nose, encouraging me to wipe the mess with my sleeve. With the lack of warmth from the campfire, the surroundings are filled with pure darkness and icy atmosphere." Frank? Joey?" I called, raising my voice a bit, trying to find hints of their existence. The loneliness creeps into my skin and the absence of my plushie, (F/N), is making me more afraid. Julie is using my backpack to mend Susie's wound, and (F/N) is inside too." Are we still playing tag. . .?" I wonder to myself, mindlessly walking down the streets where numerous housing line-up horizontally.

My steps ceased when noting a two-storey house left its door open and curiosity peaks me immediately. Approaching the doorsteps before I pulled the knob further apart in order to view the interior. It creeks eerily and my expression scrunches sharply at the ear-hurting noise." Hello?" My sound echoed back into my ears instead. A recognizable déjà vu stalks into my chest as I hesitate to take a foot forward. Somehow, it reminded me when I first met Jake. I was alone when I travelled by myself in places which is similar to a nightmare. The wooden floor continued to make creepy noises whenever I walked." Wow. . ." I exhaled as I silently observed the first floor." Scary. . ." 

Soon I head upstairs to discover more of this place." I, 2, 3. . ." I counted the bedrooms after studying the internal. The abandoned baby cribs are what scares me the most, so I don't dwell too long in that specific room. Soon all my attention stops when discovering toys litter on the floor inside the second door on the left. My eyes sparkle when eyeing numerous varieties starting from plastic objects to softer ones. The earliest fear is disregarded, after all, it is like I discovered a treasure chest. Kneeling down on the carpet as I pick up a dinosaur, along with a robot in another hand. Soon my mind approaches an imaginary route, playing with the characters like they are interacting. 

" . . . . ."

Michael remained standing behind the door as he silently watched the kid amused themselves with his childhood plaything. He suspects a survivor is hiding in this house, using advantage of his sonar senses to pinpoint their location. However, he did not predict that what he identified was a child. For the sake of fixated on killing as some sort of pleasure, he would have sunk his knife into the survivor's shoulder after the discovery. The whisper from the entity is currently inactive. Sometimes, they will guide him as a moderate control to pull him to conduct murder. Creating scenery from previous nights where he ends his sister, Judith's life. There is unexplainable rapture. A fulfillment. An addiction of repeating the exact scenario again and again. All thanks to the entity blessing him with looping that episode whenever he is on trial.

Unbeknownst to himself, the knife which held within his joints loosen, but not completely. A child isn't part of his fantasy from that evening. In the end, he concluded there is no threat in this area.

Eventually, he stepped into the room where Judith used to inhabit and proceeded to look out from the window to spot his victim. A sick, twisted joy aroused in his chest as he witnessed his first target. Laurie Strode. The grip around the handle applied further pressure, whereas the tension spreading throughout his nerves give rise to euphoria. Observing her heading inside with a hope of finding her companions and a generator. Michael remains motionless as he listens to her poor attempts of hiding her tracks. From below, he can clearly hear her rummaging through her findings. Instead of confrontation, Michael aware there is time for the hunt and that no survivor is able to escape his lair. 

Suddenly, the tender tapping noises apparently approach where he is positioned. Descending his gaze on the squeak of the door before a miniature size body exhibits themselves. Those pairs of (E/C) irises quickly spotted his hollow ones' absence from light. In their hands are a different object from previous ones. A clown plushie. Both shared a staring contest. There is no evidence of horror other than alert. Then fascination. What the kid did not realise is the fact that he is wielding a knife, bearing in mind that they are intrigued with his mask which reminded them of a boogie man. Michael boredly studies the child decreasing the remaining distance, disregarding the rule of escaping from a killer. Or maybe the child is too innocent to comprehend what their role as a survivor should act. 

" Tag!" The child giggles after slapping their minuscule palm on his left knee, preparatory to dash off. Behind the mask, his covered optics heed to their presence departing from the room. Michael is ignorant to the fact that a smile has crawled across his jaw, before finding himself determined to pursue a hunt. Stalking is usually his first plan for warming up, but there is a tiniest thrill of responding to the child's provocation. 

Chapter Text

Laurie is not expecting to hear a childish giggle followed by stumbling footsteps. Ascending her gaze, she is not prepared to discover a kid dashing down the stairs, holding an awfully familiar plushie." (Y/N)!" She quickly catches them once they descend the last step." Shhh–!" She shushed the toddler after meeting their height. The first rule after entering a trial is to stay quiet. Something they had taught the kid to follow." But I'm–!" Their lips are quickly sealed behind her right palm to conceal their sound. Soon her neck rotated, trying to seek out signs of danger." Come on." She whispered under the cold air, and carefully tugged the kid within her pace. Without her realising the fact that (Y/N) twisted their neck to gaze up the stairs, trying to spot the boogie man. Their head tilted to the side, wondering why the 'it' is not in sight?

" But he is right behind me. . ." 

The feeling of being prey causes goosebumps to rise all over her nape. Still, it did not stop Laurie from engaging her progress with the generator. Meanwhile the kid is left squatting on the ground, making something up to get rid of boredom. From time to time, Laurie will make sure to glimpse at the kid in case they will disappear on their own. Knowing so well where the creepy sensation comes from, indicating she needs to act fast. When it roared into liveliness, Laurie immediately stood up, startling the kid who was drawing on the ground with a stone in hand." Let's go." Her hand automatically wrapped around their tinier ones, pulling them to follow her. 

Her eyes scanned the area like a hawk, internally praying that she is imagining the hazard." Pss–!" A hush noise entered her ears, encouraging the duo to turn their heads." Nea!" (Y/N) chirped as they happily skipped toward the woman wearing a beanie." Hey shortie." A ruffle on their (H/C) hair is enough to cause a mess. Even so, (Y/N) dislike the nickname since it is offending their height. But they dislike being called 'brat' even more." Have you found the fourth person?" Laurie gets straight to the point, crouching down behind a boulder in order to obstruct their figures from being spotted." Not yet." Nea shakes her head. The only fault lies on the generator's blast which shows her way to the others.

With only two adults, it is difficult to finish five generators." We need to act fast." Nea can only agree with her companion before scooping the kid into her arms. Considering she is good at sprinting and slipping away with less chance of getting hurt or caught. Without uttering further as a waste of precious time, the trio began to explore the map." Such an ugly doll." Nea commented when glancing down at the plushie held within (Y/N)'s arms." His/her name is (C/N)!" They responded, defending their new toy by shoving it near the older woman's face." Eugh! It has a name?" Morphing her expression into disgust playfully, loving how the kid pouted at her teasing nature." Nea is mean!"

" Aww, shortie has such a short-temper~." She purposely bounced the kid in their arms, frightening them during the process due to fear of falling. Laurie watches the duo converse, stirring warmness in her chest the more she witnesses. Despite the fact that they are currently in such a dire situation, her companions' smiles somehow dissipates her worry." Quiet." Still, she needs to inform them of the rules to be mindful of their tone so it wouldn't attract unwanted attention. Nea rolled her eyes at her partner's seriousness and is not one to listen to order.

Eventually, they located a second generator in the middle of another property's backyard shed. Settling the child down before Nea accompanied the blonde to fasten the process. Being forsaken again, (Y/N) could only find interest to catch their attention. Crouching down while adjusting the stuffed clown in their arms as they began to peel the grass out from its root." Oh yeah, shortie. Where have you been all these time? Everyone is looking for you." Nea speaks audibly enough for people who are close approximations to hear." Hm?" Confusion is evidence on their facial muscles instead." You suddenly disappeared from the camp, we thought you got dragged to the trial, but nobody saw you. Be honest, kid. Where have you been?" Despite always being the playful auntie in the kid's eyes, (Y/N) could discern the sternness in her tone.

Their lips paused, afraid to tell the truth, aware of the fact that they have indeed broken an important rule.'Do not wander off alone.'

Even Laurie is invested with rising tension, though she remains quiet as she connects the wires." I was playing with Jake." 

" Really kid? That's the best lie you can come up with." In spite of the fact that her concentration is focused on the mechanics aspect, her voice is shooting directly at the child." I-it's the truth!" The two women could clearly hear the defensiveness in their high-pitched vocals." Tell me why I shouldn't stand up and slap you right now, brat." Hearing her threat erupt flinch within (Y/M)'s nerves." I-I. . ." Water works quickly in their eyes, blocking their vision." I'm sorry. ." Their sniff did not go unnoticed, alerting them the possibility of crying is high." We won't be mad if you are genuine with us, (Y/N)." Laurie finally cut in, gently utilising her timbre in hope to calm the child. The kid inhale back their mucus, keeping them at bay, simultaneously keeping their head low." You won't?" 

" I promise we won't." She assured, smiling sweetly to support her claim. Determined not to get into trouble, (Y/N) decided to answer honestly." I wanted to explore the map with (F/N)." 

Nea is the first person to cease her busy hands." Do you enter the other side?" A nod is enough for an answer to her question." How many times do we need to tell–!" 

" What happened?" The woman wearing a beanie scowled at her companion's interruption. There is a nervous pause coming from the child who is snapping the grass more aggressively.” Susie got hurt, so I lent her my backpack and (F/N). Then me, Frank and Joey played tag.” The women are in disbelief upon hearing (Y/N)’s explanation. Having knowledge of the Legion being a complete delinquent and also a bad influence. Though Susie is a good child at heart who has spared them once before, but that doesn't mean they will let their guards down around a killer.” Did they hurt you?” (Y/N) shakes their head to Laurie's question, and pursues extracting grass from the soil. 

What the child have no clue of is the fact that they had been kidnapped previously, nonetheless, the child did not witnessed the whole situation as a result of been drugged.

“ So ye guys are just playing?” Nea wanted to confirm the truth to which the child bobbed their head.” Am I not in trouble anymore?” Then (Y/N) asked hopefully, ascending their gaze on the women.” No, but after the trial ends, we're going to remind you of the rules again.” The strictness in Laurie’s tonality resulted in (Y/N) feeling further anxious. The two females did not continue with their nagging and determined to make the generator to function. Out of the corner of Nea’s eyes, she perceived the kid waving one hand in the air.” Who are you waving at, shortie?”

Chapter Text

" The boogie man." (Y/N) responded back, waving into the darkness where it is absent from presence. Both Nea and Laurie stopped their current progress as soon as the kid spoke." Let's go." Laurie immediately stood up, abandoning their progress considering it was too risky. Despite the fact that they couldn't sense it or catch any movement, the two women believe a child's intuition is undoubtedly true. Nea said nothing as she picked the kid up into her arms and proceeded to follow the blonde who led the way into the distance. The best they can do is increase as much gap as possible from the killer who is known for his stalking ability. Also the fact that his hiding skill is something they couldn't beat, leaving them to find somewhere safe. 

The blooming sound from the distance caused them to hurry up, knowing the fourth teammate is close." Can you see the boogie man?" Nea asked as she stride low and fast behind Laurie." No. . ." (Y/N) shakes their head to reply and their attention focuses on Nea's rear, trying to pinpoint where the tagger has disappeared. Still, in their mind, they wondered if the game was still on or not. 

" Great, it's you." Feng Min was dumbfounded by Nea's reaction upon meeting up." What was that supposed to mean, dickhead–!" Laurie quickly slapped her palm over Nea's mouth to shut her shout." Be quiet. We're not sure if Michael is following us." Laurie slowly retracts her hand after noting her teammate has zipped her lips." How many generators have you fixed?" Laurie query, recounting their progress." One, but I believe Michael must have destroyed it." Feng Min replied with a hint of annoyance. Laurie can only frown after collecting the data and concluding that they made no progress at all." Let's hurry." She simply said, meaning it is an order before lifting herself up from crouching. 

" Who made her the leader?" Feng Min grumbled under her breath before glancing at Nea who shrugged. Soon her eyes focused on the child playing with an ugly plushie in their hands." How's my little brother doing~?" She cooed, extracting both her palms with the intention to squeeze their chubby cheeks." Oww~!" (Y/N) whine and proceed to shove those offending hands off from their face." Let's use you as a bait again." Feng Min suggested jokingly, only to receive a disapproving look from Laurie." No."

" But it works every time." Feng Min retorted, knowing the kid won't get hurt during the process since they are loveable. Also the fact that none of the killers are psychopaths who will hurt a toddler." Michael is different." Laurie wanted to end the conversation by opposing the idea. Considering she knew the mute killer is a heartless murderer who found joy in hurting others to satisfy his sick play. Leaving a conclusion that she can't have risk of (Y/N) becoming his new obsession. As soon as her vision landed on a familiar generator, she quickened her pace in order to get the job finish. With three pairs of helping hands, it would speed up the process. While they are focused on their tasks, they leave the child to its own accord. (Y/N) sit silently on the floor, moving the plushie as if pretending it is dancing.

The echoing blast surface into the atmosphere after completing the last bit of effort. Unfortunately, that is when music kicks into their ears. Their little celebration did not last long before the three women found themselves running, not crouching anymore. Nea steals the kid from the ground before dashing toward a different direction. With her being the fastest. Laurie decided to act as bait, knowing Michael always has an obsession over her. Feng Min will find the opportunity to hide first. 

Soon an intimidating figure emerges into their perspective. Laurie recognises it despite the light being dim and begins to call him with any names in the book, including dramatically waving her hands to get his attention. Instead of the usual routine where she will get sought after, Michael turns his head in the direction where Nea disappeared to." The hell?" The blonde mumbled to herself as Michael rapidly stalked in the vicinity of her teammate. Still, the thought of her holding a child is too much of a hazard if she ever gets caught, so Laurie strives to stall as much time for her escape. Grabbing a nearby rock and proceeding to aim it in the masked man's direction. To her dismay, Michael is still inclined to follow down Nea's path. Using her last resort, she jumped on top of the killer, where both her legs cage around his waist and arms around his neck. 

It successfully halted his movements, but not for long before a yank on her collar brought her onto the dirt. She grunt at the impact and is not prepared for the pierce on her abdomen. The deep gash draws out a scream from her vocal cord which alerts all survivors nearby. Michael wordlessly pulled his blood-coated knife out from the bleeding wound. Knowing one of the eyesores couldn't disrupt his path anymore, he let the woman struggle painfully on the ground without batting an eye. Considering he held much more interest in one particular target. 

" No–!" Stretching out her dominant hand to grasp around his ankle, only to get shove off. Michael storms off, vanishing from Laurie's vision." Shit!" 

(Y/N) bounced in Nea's arms as she hopped over a fence and continued with her running.' Whenever a bad person appears, always cover your ears.' Is what the child were instructed to do whenever they started running away from a bad, bad guy. Which is why they did not hear Laurie's scream, except for Nea who can clearly detect the resonance. Pair of their (E/C) irises discern a figure becoming visible and is looking directly back at them." Boogie man." (Y/N) internally giggled. 

Michael's pupils spark into liveliness as soon as he spotted his little target. He extended his step large and impatiently, attempting to reach the small human. Still, there is an eyesore he needs to get rid of in order to earn his goal. Not remembering the name of the woman who is carrying the child and anticipated to dispose her. Eventually, he reached Nea and prepared to strike his weapon down, only to miss because of her agility. His neck snapped fast to where she dodged and pursued to hunt down whatever was in his way of his chase. 

" Fuck off, will ya!" Nea shouted terrifyingly when noting the killer is hot on her heels. Usually Michael will go after Laurie first since she is his obsession. It leaves an unwanted assumption roused in her brain at the alteration of his obsession. Also the fact that whoever has the child accompanying them, the killers won't perform brutality toward them. Since they respected an unspoken rule of not ruining the child's innocence. But Michael is different. 

Unfortunately, Michael manages to outrun even if it is the fastest survivor by inserting the sharp iron into her wing." Arck!" Her violent howl ripped into the air as the collision brought forward discomfort. A hand roughly snatched her nape, ceasing her pace from escaping further. As much as she tries to protect the kid in her arms, she is easily discarded like an unwanted mess. While the child is robbed from her limbs. Ensuring the survivor won't get up anymore, Michael cold-heartedly stomps on the inflicted injury in a crushing pressure. Uncomfortable noises emitted from her mouth ascribed to the torment. Knowing his victim has weakened, he releases his feet before striding away with his acquired trophy.

By the time Michael descends his gaze on the little thing who is now trembling in his hold. Simply grasping on their collar, letting their short feets dangle in the air, and with those pair of miniature arms holding his childhood toy close to their chest. Their expression is threatening to cry, especially tears brimming in their glossy eyes. Nonetheless, Michael couldn't read the child's agitation since all he felt was a sense of achievement.

" Tag." 

Chapter Text

Michael is stunned by the next thing expressed from the kid. They cry till the point his eardrums burst in pain. Accidentally letting go of the kid who landed onto the surface, though fell on their butt instead. It increases the volume of their wail which stopped his body from functioning and fist automatically tightened around the knife. Unsure how long his body stayed that way, nor the moment when the kid ceased their weeping. By the time Michael comes back to his senses, the kid is gone from their position. Turning around to glimpse at the older survivor who is nowhere to be found too. Just a quick moment of him being stunned, they disappeared before his sight. And Michael dislikes it one bit when his prey is gone. But having knowledge of an injured woman and a kid won't stray too long, presuming they are hiding nearby. 

Nea panted heavily as she crouched behind a boulder, ignoring the pain as she focused on waiting for the killer to be out from her radar. She held the shivering child protectively in her arms, using one palm to cover their mouth and nose, restraining their weeping from selling out their current position. She listens as the heartbeat fades eventually, patiently waiting for a chance to breathe. When the music dissipates, Nea exhales exhaustedly." You okay, shortie?" She uncovered her hand which is now coated in snot and saliva, then proceeded to wipe them off her pants. Their sniffles and swollen eyes are enough for an answer." Nea h-hurt." Her heart throbbed as those doe irises locked onto her wound behind." I'm fine. It's just a scratch." The amount of blood oozing out did not support her assurances, though a kid this young would believe her lies. 

Right now, finding a treasure chest is her first priority and the generator can wait. A frightful scream from the distance resounded all over the map, indicating either Feng Min or Laurie are hooked. Gotten used to their gurgling howl, meanwhile the kid is not." Close your ears." She simply commanded and thankfully the kid is a good listener. Adjusting their weight in her arms as she stood up, grunting at the sting when pulling her injured muscles. She tread carefully, at the same time making sure to keep her body low and stealthy.

The trials are not as difficult as they imagine it to be. Weirdly, Michael is not fixated on Laurie anymore, including the rest of the survivors, Nea and Feng Min. Unfortunately, the fact that the kid becomes his new obsession is what worries them. Meanwhile the kid remains shaken after what they had witnessed and refuses to leave Nea, saying that they will protect her. Even though Laurie and Feng Min have plans to swap the kid around to confuse Michael. With or without the kid's cooperation, they still insist on going forward with their plans considering survival is their utmost priority. 

Even if just a glimpse of their (H/C) strands is enough to draw Michael toward them like a magnet. The women would try to hide the kid first before they lure the killer away from the zone. Even though it is a time consuming process to go back to retrieve the kid once they lost the killer. Somehow they managed the time when Michael lost interest with most of the survivors, meaning whoever is not his obsession could fasten the generators. 

Once the last generator is finished, that is when Michael strikes full bar and is able to chase without limit." Oh shi–!"." Don't finish that sentence, Nea!" Laurie shouted behind her as they proceeded to dart toward the exit gate. The music is loud in their ears, taunting them of a nearby danger. From afar, they could see the blinking lights from the switch box." Come on!" Feng Min waves her dominant hand up to signal them of the exit's location. The huge metal ornate gates slowly ajar and the creaks resonate all over the place. Feng Min could see Michael entering her sideline vision and is unstoppable in hunting them down. When the killer extends his free hand in order to snatch Laurie's collar, though he is not expecting his fingers to slip. He grunted before eyeing Nea who uses her whole body to shield the kid away from his view. 

If they escape, he will be punished and will never get this chance again, especially after finding an amusing little thing. His feet continue to stomp, to pursue with his adrenaline running fast. Feng Min looks between the gates and then at her teammates, deciding between saving her own life first or stays back." Fuck it." She cursed underneath her breath before ripping a flashlight out from her rear pocket, switching it on and focus the ray on Michael. Due to their distance, it did not stun Michael for too long. Luckily, it gave them a perfect amount of time to exit.

". . ." Michael stared at the close gates nonchalantly, simultaneously gripping the knife handle until veins could be seen popping onto his knuckles. The map began to shake, signifying that the Entity is manifesting itself to bestow his punishment. It is frustrating to be on the losing end, though Michael still takes responsibility for his mistakes for letting all survivors free. All blame his distraction. Certainly, he couldn't escape his fate from the Entity's hand since he learnt it the hard way the first time he is being penalised. 

All three women respire greedily for oxygen. Once the coast is clear, Nea places the kid down whilst gathering her breath." That guy is nuts." Nea breathed." Yeah, he is definitely acting weird." Feng Ming agreed after catching her breath. Laurie glances down at (Y/N) who is looking up at them with pure concern. Their puffy eyes are still swollen, including dry tears and snot covering their face. She understands Michael's behaviour better than anyone, and coincidentally is aware of how his mind functions. She kneels down, matching the kid's height before raising her right hand to pat their growing (H/C) hair." Stay away from the boogie man. Promise me." She uttered earnestly. But in the child's ears, it sounded like an order. (Y/N) bobbed their head in response and as a result of their obedient nature, it drew a smile on Laurie's cheeks. 

" Good boy/girl." 

A snap from twigs drive their necks to twist directly at the source. Upon identifying the approaching figures, all three women got into defensive stances." Julie! Susie!" Nea did not have time to grab (Y/N)'s arms before they ran past them in favour of drawing near the Legion. Seeing how close they are, including (Y/N)'s reaction reveals that they are not dangerous. However, the survivors remain on guard due to their roles." Nice to see you again, cutie~." Susie crouches down, intending to squeeze their chubby cheeks." I'm here to return this." Julie let a familiar backpack slide off her shoulder, handed it back to (Y/N) who happily took it. They unzip the metal to check the content inside, noting everything is in place." (F/N)!" (Y/N) squealed as they pulled their plushie out from the backpack. 

" Why do you have (Y/N)'s bag?" Laurie chipped in and was vigilant when eyeing the two." It's a long story." Julie responded in an unfriendly manner." (Y/N) is our responsibility, of course we should know." Everyone knew Laurie had a strict attitude, also is part of her protectiveness toward the team." Where is Clowney?" A high-pitched sound ceased the adult's conversation." Clowney?" Susie repeated the name." Yeah. I found Clowney when we were playing games. He is (F/N)'s new friend." (Y/N) explained, referring to the clown plushie they adopted during trial." Can we go back to get Clowney?" Their puppy eyes landed on Laurie who sucked in a breath. In the end, she sighed in defeat considering she always falls for their cute tricks." I will find Clowny for you when the trial starts. Only if you behave and follow the rules." Laurie added in the end. Wishing their disappearance is just a one-time thing and to never occur again. 

" I promise!" (Y/N) happily chirped. Seeing a smile blossom on the child's face warms the adults' hearts." We'll be leaving now." Julie announced and proceeded to depart alongside Susie." Bye bye, Julie and Susie! Let's play again!" (Y/N) wave their free hand in the air, watching the women's retrieval." Let's go back to the campfire and warm your hands." Laurie offered her palm out for the child to accept. They followed where the light emitted from, hand-to-hand, while the other one hugged a plushie and shoulder lifted the backpack. 

Chapter Text

" Hmm. . . What is in your arms?" Caleb pointed at the tiny figure wrapped around Sally's biceps. One could tell that is a child. Her uneven respiration is calmed, opposite to when she is wheezing all the time. The way she float in the air is smooth and slow, as if afraid to cause harm to the kid if the rhythm is disturbed." Why do you have a kid in your arms?" Of course he expected no response considering the nurse unable to speak other than breathing." Hey, where are you taking him/her?" Caleb becomes alarmed when Sally begins to move in the air, continuing the path where she is heading. Confusion is written all over his wrinkled features as he observes the nurse treating the kid with pure gentleness. 

There is an indescribable air surrounding her which is lacking in any killing intention. Typically all killers carry that kind of aura whenever they are on trial. Soon the dim-hooded wood lit up by flickering rays. Gathered around the campfire were unusual people. No one bat an eye at the two approaches as they enter the scene. Only concentrated on silence as the sole source of company." Hehehe!" Herman's laughter is what broke the tranquility which they'd share. Amusement displays in those pair of optics as he notices the nurse carrying a bundle in her arms. Having come across the kid once in a trial and have always been curious about how a child's mind works. Before he manages to confiscate the kid, the survivors get to them before he does. 

A warning frown was cast upon him, and Herman could tell that the nurse was threatening him. His laugh dies down as he slouch his back to make himself less intimidating. A gesture indicating he won't lay hands on the kid. Still, the rule of truce is being applied when both survivors and killers are not in trial. Though no one ever takes initiative to visit each individual's side." Uh-huh. . ." The Hillbilly, Max, stood up as he advanced toward Sally with his attention directed solely on the slumbering kid. Including the Wraith who looms behind the two, descending his gaze almost innocently. The Spirit also found herself floating in the vicinity of the trio as interest bloomed on her facials. Her colourless index reached forward, then ceased when being reminded that glasses are clung onto her skin. Afraid it will hurt the innocent little human, she retracted her limb but remained close to admire them. 

Majority of the killers are invested in the child unknowingly wandered into their den for the first time. And to even reach this far is a surprise. When Max attempted to touch the kid, his hand immediately got slapped by the nurse to which earned a hiss from him. Her silent cuss dare him to do it again and see the result he will receive. He can only huff at the unfairness and refrain himself from stretching out his hand again." What's up everyone! The greatest singer, Ji-Woon Hak is here!" The trickster announces his arrival, shortly concluding his trial. His shout vibrates across the atmosphere, bringing forth a particular person to wake. 

" Hmm. . ." All eyes snapped on the child in Sally's arms that was on the verge of awakening. Their doe pupils blink ajar, slowly opening bigger to get rid of the blurriness. What awaits them is unexpected. Their soft features contorted into an ugly manner. Nose scrunch up, eyebrows furrowed, lips gaping and eyes glaring." Aaaaahhh!" A weeping cry struck down like thunder, echoing all over the space. All killers went stunned at the uncomfortable loudness that is worse than being flash by the survivors. The crowds that surrounded Sally quickly separated to get away from the blasting noises, leaving the poor nurse to deal with the most damage." God fucking dammit!" Ghostface covered his ears with both his palms, despite wearing full coverage, the cry is torturous. Pyramid Head, who experienced it firsthand, went stiff. Meanwhile, static intensifies throughout the doctor's nerves when being hit by such force.

While the rest were conflicted by the wailing, they did not notice that the child was robbed onto someone else's arms. Fortunately the volume did lower a bit, but the aftermath throbbing in their eardrums is not friendly. Carmina Mora, a.k.a the artist, is diverting the child's attention. A crow sat above her free forearm, while the child is feeling the bird's feather with fascination. She recited a poem which no one recognised. The crying now turns into a sniffing mess. Carmina lifted a dirty rag in order to wipe the (H/C)-haired child's snot and tears off. There is a hint of smile sprawling across her jaw. An emotion that was never seen on her face.

" How did you do that?" Ghostface is amazed, similar to others who are curious about her technique." I used to have a little brother." She simply said, grinning tenderly as she watched her crow leaning into the child's playful palms that were scratching its fur. It is not a common conversation for killers to indulge in reminiscence, excluding the talkative ones who overshared everything. Though everyone here used to live a normal life before turning into what they are today." I know you are scared, child." Her words directed on the child who locked gaze with her soulless ones." We will not hurt you. I guarantee that you will be safe." She vows a pledge, assuring the young survivor with sweetness." R-really? I'm not going to be eaten?" Their shivering tonal shows evidence of fear." No." She shakes her head to ensure that their terror is not needed. 

" How did you get here, (Y/N)?" Ji-Woon asked posterior to the storm had passed. The said person glanced over at the man who they've met before in previous trial." Oh! You're the uncle who teaches me throwing knives!" They excitedly pointed. Being called by such a title is unforeseen, to the point bruising his ego." I am not an 'uncle'. Call me oppa." He corrected with an upset frown." Okie–!" When the kid suddenly covers their lips to cut their speech short, it drives them puzzled." What are you doing, kid?" Ghostface's turn to initiate." My friends told me not to talk to the big, bad monsters." They responded subsequently to slight reluctances. It did not take a stupid person to comprehend who they are referring to." They sure did teach you good lessons, kid. Be good and listen to them." Caleb remarked, having a guess of how protective the survivors are toward the kid. 

But still, the toddler had spoken to them, additionally broken a rule." They don't have to know~." Ghostface teasingly said, persuading (Y/N) to be defiant." But Laurie, Meg and Felix would be mad at me." Basically the trio are the strict parents of the group, to which Ghostface discovered." Like I said, they won't know if we don't tell. Also, you know that we won't eat you, right kid? Let's have fun." Hesitation lurks on their youthful expressions as they ponder the adult's sentence." Okie. . . Promise me you won't tell them? Because I don't wanna get in trouble." Their tiny whine sure is adorable in the women's eyes. Ghostface smiles mischievously under his mask before responding." I promise.”

Chapter Text

" Why are you here alone, kid? Where are your babysitters?" Ghostface interrogated due to interest. A child their age should have learnt not to enter a dangerous zone or leave their parent's sight." A crow snatched (F/N) away from me and I was chasing after it! But now I don't know where it took (F/N). . ." (Y/N) explained in distress at the loss of their plushie. As if understanding her assignment, Carmina summons the crow that is resting on her arm to search for the missing toy. It flew up into the surface and began to caw into the distance, signalling the other crows to find their target. The harsh sound from the birds encourage (Y/N) to block their eardrums with their fists until it all scattered away.

" Don't worry, child. They will find it." Carmina assured while petting their fluffy hair that is soft against her pulse-less palm." Aww, are you going to cry–Ouch!" Ghostface is immediately bonked on the head by a force. This causes him to flip around and cuss at whoever dares to do it. Only for him to swallow back his voice when noting Pyramid Head casting his intimidating figure down on him. The executioner has no plans in experiencing the child's cry anymore. One is already enough. His silence is threatening, but successfully makes Ghostface zip his lip." Hehehe!" Herman intentionally laughed at the scene, only to receive a glare from Ghostface." Haha. Very funny."

A new set of heavy stomps is nearing their spot, motivating all killers to look up. Evan MacMillan(trapper), alongside Anna(huntress), Michael Myers(shape) and Jeffrey Hawk(clown) arrived on scene. Perfect, the three people whom Carmina wishes not to expose the kid to have made their entrance. Trying to hide the kid is non-optional considering they are in the open space. Anna's irises spark at the realisation of who Carmina is holding. Yet she made no movement. Her limbs do flinch as if instinct have taken over, but are subtle in the eye. Michael also found himself staring deeply at the little kid, including Jeffrey who smiled creepily. Evan glances at the killers who are at the campfire first for an answer regarding the intruder." The kid lost his/her toy and some stupid crow stole it." Carmina glared at Caleb for the insult towards her kind.

Evan simply glanced back at the kid who attempted to make their existence smaller. Soon he disconnected his gaze and approached the log to occupy a seat." Shape, Huntress, Clown." Just from uttering their names alone is a sign of command. As the sole one favoured by the entity and is also acting as their assigned leader, they knew not to disrespect Evan. The trio comprehend that is a warning to not lay hands on the kid. Though whether they will follow it till the end is a question. Majority of the killers could read his current mood that he doesn't want the kid to stay too long, and only permit them access to enter until their plushie is found.

Evan makes sure to keep an eye out on Herman who he found distrustfulness toward, knowing what sort of man he is. The doctor deflected his stare, showing his leader that he is innocent. Carmina could feel the kid's shaking due to the amount of presences, including the aura that they are emitting. Also their appearance did not help. She carefully takes her leave while patting (Y/N)'s shivering back. All eyes cast on her retrieval. Silently judging her. 

2nd POV

You lean your chin on top of Carmina's shoulder, noting a couple of dark figures following behind. You believed your friends when they said that there are monsters living on the other side of the map. It is proven since the individuals here looked scary and inhuman in your childish gaze." They are my. . . associate." Carmina addressed them formally before halting her heels, turning around to face the trio who had been trailing on her rear." The Wraith, call him Philip. The Hillbilly, Max and the Spirit, Rin. They are. . . friendly." After her introduction, the three killers awkwardly stared at you who is studying them. The three feel self-conscious just from your little observation, considering no one ever gaze at them so purely." My name is (Y/N). It's nice to meet you." You present yourself, trusting Carmina's words regarding the fact that they are harmless and are trustworthy.

" H̶i̶." Rin greeted with a broken vocal. It really does sound like a creature coming straight out from a nightmare. Of course you are still not used to their presences considering their outer appearances spook you a lot. But you are also curious about the new people you have met and desire to know more about them. Then a chainsaw resounds from a distance, causing you to flinch instinctively. Followings laughter erupt into the surface. The sound inches nearer until the bushes scattered aside because of the pushing force. Four figures emerged with a lovely gift." Hey guys." Frank casually said as he tugged the chainsaw in his palms." Turn it off! Turn it off before that fatty hear us." Julie instructed. 

The blasting noise dies down shortly when Frank switches off the ignition." How did you get yourself here again, kid?" One of the Legion questions." H̶e̶/S̶h̶e̶ l̶o̶s̶t̶ h̶e̶r̶ t̶o̶y̶." Rin answered in your stead." That sucks." Joey commented." H-hey guys, we should go before he catches us." Susie anxiously said whilst tugging Julie's cuff." Yeah. Oh, by the way, don't tell Bubba that you have seen us. See ya!" Frank requested before signalling the others to follow him with the chainsaw in tow. Thanks to their agility, they are able to dash fast." Bye bye!" You bid them farewell, unfortunately they are unable to hear it because of the increasing gap. Both Max and Philip can only shake their heads, comprehending what sort of trouble they are getting into for performing their usual prank.

Subsequent to their departure, another presence makes itself known. You are alarmed by the foreign face, especially when it looks like a human face stitched on top of another. It reminded you of a horror movie. Also the stench of blood surrounding him is thick. His wheezing is harsh, like he is out of breath. The man noticed the four killers and failed to realise your existence. They understood his wordless gaze, but did not reveal any intention of answering. The only thing that breaks the silence is Rin pointing her index toward a specific direction. Appreciating her gesture, the breathless man pursues down the trail.

" Who is that monster?" You asked posterior to his shadow is gone." His name is Bubba." Carmina briefly introduced. Still, she left his 'title' unsaid and preferably for you to remain clueless." Why is he running?" Another question is thrown onto her." He is chasing after the Legions." 

" But they went that way." You pointed at the west where the Legions departed. Meanwhile, Rin shows the south." S̶s̶s̶h̶h̶~̶." The spirit places an index over her lips, a sign which you recognise. You grinned before silencing yourself. Despite not understanding the situation, you find the people here is odd. 

Chapter Text

" Where did the kid go this time?!" 

All survivors are panicking for the uncountable times since the child went missing again." I thought you were babysitting him/her, Quentin!" Nea shoots directly at the said person who becomes extremely guilty." Okay, it is my mistake to doze off–."" It is a big mistake!" Quentin's collar was immediately grasped into a death hold by the woman." Hey. Hey. Hey. Back off." Both Jake and David manually separate the two, especially holding Nea back, knowing her outburst is not easy to subdued." Where was the last time you saw (Y/N)?" Claudette questions gently, as usual the peacemaker." The river. We were. . . We were taking a walk." Quentin responds, rubbing his temples as he tries to remember where they previously were.

" We should never let you babysit again." Everyone agrees to Jake's point. Fortunately that is less of a burden for the tired man, at the same time he regrets losing the kid." I'll take responsibility." Quentin said with his tone filled with shame." Me, Feng Min, Nea and Dwight will search the border." Laurie decided to divide the team." Wow there, I'm not letting you ladies head to danger." David quickly disagreed with her choice, especially as he held no trust on their leader for protecting them from the unexpected." I'm still here, you know." The man wearing glasses frowned, but his presence got disregarded completely." I'll come with ye." Quentin hop into the group, hoping at least there is another opposite sex to even out the gender. Also more people will lessen each individual's trouble. 

" The rest can search the remaining area." Meg refers to the sections that are near the river and around the survivors camp." Stay safe you guys." Laurie nodded before bidding them some luck to locate the kid. 

2nd POV

" Yay! (F/N)!" Your giggle resounded into the surface when one crow dropped the plushie into your awaiting hands. Stuffing your face into the soft fur, relishing in the smell of nostalgia. All four killers that are presented is in awe at the scene. Pure, untainted and innocent. Something that shouldn't exist in the realm. This leads to a question. How did you arrive here? And why doesn't the entity do anything about it? 

" Thank you so much, Carmina!" Your appreciation brought intense emotions into her heart, making her speechless. A rare smile formed on her cheeks, a gesture she wasn't aware of." And thank you too, crow!" The raven caw instead before flying back into the air to join its group." Let's bring you back." She softly said, adjusting your weight before turning her heels. Rin, Max and Philip followed by her side. Right above them, the ravens continue to float in circles, following their master, while some rest on dried branches. The walk is peaceful, except for the harsh exhalation from the killers which makes the atmosphere more eerie." Are you really a monster?" Your sudden question is to be expected at some point. 

Rather than offended, they accept the reality that they are inhuman and have performed brutality." Yes." She answered truthfully." Then why be nice?" Max and Philip stared at the kid, lowering their gaze to ponder the query. It never surfaces to begin with and they are caught unprepared. A killer being kind? It is prohibited and against their morals. Even so, your blunt yet guiltless question brought back a tiny hint of sanity which they'd lost ages ago." A̶r̶e̶ w̶e̶?̶" Rin carefully asked, grabbing your attention to focus on her." Yep!" It is a brief reply. All four killers are grateful to have met such a miniature existence that restore light into their inhumane heart.

Without warning, Philip extended his dominant arm forward, settling his oversized palm on top of your tiny head. Hesitation still lurks on his expressionless facial countenance, but his actions tells it all. Making sure his fingers did not engulf your skull completely, but still keeping contact with your hair. It is the softest sensation Philip ever felt in his entire life. With his callous hand that always carrying weapon and adult-size human weight, there is nothing gentle about his physique. He pledged to keep his dangerous self away from you, to keep you from harm, from him. Yet, right now it feels like the right thing to do. To pet the little living thing. 

You did not flinch nor express any negative emotions, but rather stunned by his actions. There is a distinguished scent that represents Philip. Gasoline and rusty metal." You smell weird." You commented after Philip retracted his hand. Unafraid to be straightforward. An abnormal noise emitted from Philip," Hr~Hr~Hr~." Neither was it threatening or panting, it is comparable to a chuckle. A sound which the killers never heard of. Seeing his colleague's interaction with the kid, Max is more invested. His finger came unexpectedly, poking at your chubby cheeks that still haven't been roughen by bumps or dryness." Ouch!" Hearing your unpleasant yelp is enough to set Carmina alert. Smacking Max's hand away roughly, simultaneously sending him a warning glare. The disfigured man didn't mean to touch you too hard. Max pouted at the interruption from Carmina and how unfair it is that Philip did not receive the same treatment. 

" Oi!" 

The shout from the distance coax their attention to address who it belongs to. They aren't near the survivors' border yet and to witness the survivors enter their realm is a first. Remembering the victims' face, but aren't sure about their names." Kid." Your eyes lit up at the sight of your friends." Yeah friends!" Your hands make a grabby sign, indicating you want to go back to where you belong. Carmina can only release you from her cradle, watching you return to the survivors' side." Are you hurt?" Quentin kneels down to match your height, including Laurie who is examining your physique to check sign of injury. A sigh of relief escapes her lips when noticing you are healthy.

" Did you bastards kidnapped (Y/N)?" Max frowned at the accusations from David and really wishes to decapitate him right now. Only to be stopped by Philip who did not permit him to exhibit cruelty in front of a child. Apparently the camp is a resting area, and also forbids killers and survivors from engaging in activities outside of trial. In other words, there is an unspoken peace between the two teams." Let's go." Feng Min urges, considering she wished not to stay within the killer's realm any further. Laurie protectively envelops her right hand around your wrist, tugging you to her side. The survivors thoroughly fixate on the killers as they walk backwards, carefully study for indication of them making a move. Once they have a safe distance, they run out from the killer's sight and head to the border.

“ Why are you in the place I told you not to go?” Laurie’s nagging began, making you stay closer to Quentin instead.” B-because a crow stole my (F/N). . .” Descending your head to glance at your shoes as if it is the most interesting thing you've ever laid your eyes on.” I told you it is dangerous. Why won't you listen?” Her tonal began to lift, thus bringing forth tears to be extracted from your (E/C) irises.” Hey Laurie, give the kid some slack.” Quentin tenderly rubbed your head, hoping to ease your distress. Seeing obvious cues of you on the verge of weeping diminish the agitation Laurie felt. 

She crouches down to even the height before placing both her hands on your face, guiding your neck up to locked eyes with her.“ I'm sorry for yelling at you, (Y/N). Forgive me. I am really worried for you. I just wanted you to be safe and didn't want those monsters to hurt you.” It is the truth considering out of the team of six, Laurie is the only one who put a lot more effort in trying to identify your whereabouts.” Now that we found the kid, let's head back to the camp because it is getting cold.” Dwight uttered. For once everyone acknowledges the leader’s guide and proceeds to head back to their temporary home. 

Chapter Text

" Don't go off on your own again. Let us know if you lost your plushie, okay (Y/N)? We'll get it back for you." Laurie said gently. You guiltily nodded your head, ashamed for committing the wrong." Are you hungry?" Dwight asked, hoping to ease the tendion. Just as he mentioned the words, your stomach began to growl in response. Everyone chuckled when you perked up with pure hunger on your expression that is expecting food." Who is on cooking duty?" Nea asked." I think it is Meg." David responded. As the adult begins to converse and is too lost in their conversation, it is too late to notice that black mist forming. Until Laurie felt her hand grasp onto nothingness. 

" The kid! ! !" 

You blinked your eyes once the fog disappeared and now stood in the middle of a deserted area. Already knew the concept of the trial, you become alert. Still, you are upset when knowing the trial needs to be completed or else you won't get to eat dinner. The grumbling from your stomach is urging to be fill." Why did it have to be now." You grip onto the plushie due to how unfair it is to rob you into a trial while you are starving. The first thing you do is crouch down to bring your backpack off. Unzipping the bag to check whether or not the entity blesses you with materials. Unfortunately there is nothing but your sketchbook, pencil case, lunchbox and water bottle. 

But the lucky finding when you open your lunchbox, it magically contains lunch inside. Normally it is empty, but for the first time, it is not." Yeah!" You happily yelled and immediately seized the food into your greedy hands. What you failed to realise is breaking one of the many rules. Do not make sound when on trial. 

3rd POV

The knight follows the sounds as it echoes all over the tranquil atmosphere. What welcomed him was unexpected. There is a child sitting on top of a hay, munching on an apple. He quietly gazes at the lone toddler behind his mask. Having learnt about a rumour of a specific survivor from the killers in the camp, but he held distrustfulness toward the information until seeing it with his own eyes. As if his presence are known due to the clanking noise emitted from the armour whenever he moves. Those pairs of (E/C) irises landed on him and their puffy cheeks jiggled when they bite on the mush inside their jaw. 

The kid hop off from the hay, presuming they are escaping after discovering his existence. But no, the kid is stalking closer to him." A knight!" The short, crushable being pointed their index at him." Like those heroes in the book!" They continue to talk in their undeveloped vocal cord. Tarhos has no word to describe the way a kid is looking at him. Hurting a kid is against his morals and he refuses to hurt the weak despite being a ruthless murderer he is. Seeing that there is no threat, Tarhos proceeds to depart. Still, he couldn't help but listen to those tiny footsteps following behind his rear.

" Where is the princess? Do you fight dragons?!" Tarhos never once breaks a word, nor has any interest in engaging with conversation. It is weird for a kid to be so fixated on him in an abnormal way. No one has ever given him that much recognition before, and currently he feels uncomfortable. When he felt a hint of pressure on his sword, Tarhos quickly retracted, pulling it away from the kid. Snapping his neck down to cast suspicion on the toddler who dared to touch his prize-possession weapon." Can I touch it, please~?" The demand in their tone is audible in spite of the fact that it is asked nicely. Reluctances is evidence on his facial, though was shield by the mask. 

" Please. Please. Please–." Tarhos has no clue how to deal with a kid who is hopping on their feets, begging to feel his sword. Though their noises are getting annoying, leaving him no choice but to oblige. Raising the sword down, followed by kneeling on one leg to even their height. Yet there is still a lot of difference between the two, Tarhos being a head taller than the kid even if he kneels down." Wow. . . !" The (H/C)-haired child is in awe as they feel the cold, solid object with the surface of their opened palm. There are signs of rust forming, including the edge chipping away and scratches drawn along the iron. The sword looks dull, at the same time tells a story of the uncountable enemies he had butchered with this weapon. 

Tarhos stood up, bringing the sword back to his side despite the kid not done admiring it. Thinking the interaction must have given some satisfaction to the child, Tarhos initiated to leave. To his dismay, the kid is trailing behind him. Since an adult's legs are longer and Tarhos are constantly chasing, the stride is a normal pace for him. Meanwhile for the child, it is like running a marathon. When he heard a thud from his rear, he did not turn around to check what had happened. The only thing that stopped him on his track was sobbing. Yielding to the sound of a toddler's cry, Tarhos rotated his feet to see the source of the incident. There is a scrape on the kid's left wrist, indicating that they must have fallen when running.  

Unsure how to deal with a minor shedding tears, Tarhos tries what he thinks is beneficial to the circumstances.

The question lies in how the kid appeared in his realm notwithstanding the trial hasn't begun yet. But Kazan Yamaoka, the oni, has a better question. Why is Tarhos giving a shoulder ride to a kid? While the knight is on his journey to hand the kid back, he comes across one of the numerous killers. Similar in a sense, both shared common barbarity and how they viewed the world. So they respected one another in their own manner. 

Kazan was staring at the kid who wore the biggest grin on their cheeks. From the kid's perspective, they feel very tall. Even though their friends back in the camp do offer them shoulder rides regularly, but they are not as high as the knight. The mien Tarhos is emitting speaks "don't ask". Kazan silently understood it and did not make his curiosity evidence." Your mask is cool!" The oni did not predict the words directed at him. The pureness in their tonal as they praised him. Nonetheless, he must admit. It is not bad. He nodded as a sign of acknowledgement to the kid. Even though Tarhos view the kid as an annoyance, yet they harbour no ill emotions, only innocent and honesty. 

Once Tarhos dropped the kid onto the dirty soil gently, where the borders are, he ushered them to go with a slight push." Thank you, Mr. Knight!" The child appreciated before eyeing a familiar path home. Tarhos silently watches the kid skips back to where they belong, until their miniature figure cannot be seen anymore. Taking it as a cue to leave, he proceeds to head back to his realm. 

" It is unsightly to see you hanging out with a weakling." A voice booms into the surface, thus catching Tarhos' attention. Albert Wesker, another one of his kind, but never a colleague." It is a surprise, but. . . I thought you cast your humanity away." He continues to speak as he emerges from the shadow. Those crimson eyes glow behind his sunglasses, testing his resolve as a killer." Do you perhaps can't kill a child?" The question unknowingly sets Tarhos off and automatically forces him to raise his sword on Wesker's throat. Simultaneously, tentacles spawn around the sword, stopping the metal from coming in contact with his flesh. The warning is clear, additionally the aura surrounding the knight has altered into a murderous kind. Disappointment is visible on the blond's facial expression when discovering an abnormality of the knight's behaviour.

" A weakness." He mumbled, loud enough for both of them to hear. Wesker utilises all his strength to pry the sword away from his vital points before stepping backwards." I thought you were one of us." He said lastly, prior to walking off, leaving the knight wielding his sword back to the sheath. Tarhos comprehends where he is coming from, considering this man viewed human as a lesser existence that needs to be terminated, therefore leaving only the strong in the hierarchy. Which is why Wesker's relationship with the survivors is not good. Still, he is irritated by the insult regarding a child. Maybe Weaker is right, he had developed a soft spot for a nameless kid who he barely knew. 

Chapter Text

A friendly neighbourhood, caring neighbours, funny friends and loving parents. Peaceful and unbothered. A normal life. Everyday is repetitive and everyone lives through the same rhythm daily. Amongst an isolated village, there lies a house that is built similarly to the others. Behind a panel of windows on the second floor is a child no more than eight years old. Kneeling on the floor as he/she tries to complete the puzzles. The complexity is filled with complications for him/her tiny brain to ponder. The perplexity is evident on their facial features, yet there is determination burn behind those (E/C) irises. As they reach for one of the pieces, a creak from the door followed by a turning knob enters their ears. 

Ceasing their current activity in favour of focusing on the figures that are inviting themselves in. Their eyes perked up at the sight of two familiar faces." Mommy! Daddy!" The piece fell from their tiny hand as they preferred to greet their parents. By running over to the woman, wrapping their arms around one of her legs. The child anticipated loving caress from a mom who never fails to deliver comfort. The kid leaned in, enjoying her affection." (Y/N), our baby." The said toddler tilted their neck up in order to lock gaze with their mom. The usual smile plastered on her cheeks. Sweet and gentle.

" I can't believe our baby boy/girl has grown so much already!" (Y/N) twisted their neck to take a peek at their dad. A giggle expresses from their throat at the thought of being compared to an adult which serves as a compliment in their perspective." Today is going to be your special day, (Y/N)." Their eyes peeled away from their dad, glancing back on the woman." You are already eight now, which is considered an age of reason. You'll receive your first communion." Mom's description is too much of a difficulty for (Y/N) to understand. But judging her tone, it sounds important." We need to get you ready in two hours." Dad planted a kiss on mom's temples before leaving the room. 

The kid's twig-like elbow was guided by the adult's larger hand. The bag that she is holding gained (Y/N)'s attention. When she settled it on the floor beside the incomplete puzzle, she proceeded to unwrap the content. A ceremonial robe was pulled out, leaving you gawking at the piece." It is the same as mom's." The child pointed out. After a quick observation, (Y/N) noticed a different style that their parents chose for today's wardrobe. A weird outfit they have never seen before and are not their usual attire. The woman carefully changed her son/daughter out of their comfort outfit. 

(Y/N) curiously examine the robe that was draped over their head, noting the contrasting design from their parents. While the adults are simple and bland. (Y/N)'s have delicate patterns printed on it. The only similarity is the logo on the front panel. A signature (Y/N) is familiar with. Remembering what the adults have taught them about a symbol of an entity they'd worship through generations. Everyone in town carries it, whether it is accessories, clothes, graffiti on a wall, furniture and store’s sign. It exists in this town. 

Then the door was gently pry open, thus stealing the child's attention away from mom. In his hands is a glass of water and an unknown pill. He kneels down to the kid's height, offering the objects in his palms. Even without instruction, the child ajar their jaw willingly, therefore making the task easier. Once the pill is placed onto their tongue and later gulped down to their oesophagus, the parents praise how much of a good boy/girl they are. Drowning into their compliments with a beaming smile adorning their cheeks. (Y/N) wanted to become a perfect child in order to receive applause regularly." You look good in it." Dad simply commented, then awarded a pat on their small head." Today you'll be our special boy/daughter." Mom continues to speak highly of her child. Excitement is evident in her eyes and her whole expression is showing positivity. 

No time was wasted considering the family is in a hurry. Soon the kid was settled on the back seat, whereas dad is driving, while mom is speaking on the phone. Throughout the drive, (Y/N) is on a brink of slumbering. Car rides tend to make them sleepy, but this time, they are even sleepier. Unable to keep awake and have no strength to control it, (Y/N)'s neck slanted to the side and body goes slack. Despite wanting to keep themselves conscious to see the big day and what is it even about, yet they are incapable of fighting off somnolence. Having no clue how long the rides are, nor when mom finished conversing through the line, or the moment they have arrived.

On one occasion, the kid found their awareness. However, their physique is too relaxed and is not in the state to move. Instead of being inside a vehicle, (Y/N) saw pillars and a vaulted ceiling. It is their local cathedral upon realising the familiar interior design. The (H/C)-haired kid has their head lay on top of their dad’s shoulder and the ringing in their ears manage to pinpoint audible whispers. However, the child couldn't identify the concept of their conversation since they are in a transitional phase between wakefulness and sleep. A sensation of being passed to another person's arms nearly shook them awake.” Don't fret, you are in good hands, child.” A recognisable voice. The pastor. (Y/N) allowed themselves to be manhandled, finding an unfamiliar shoulder to rest on. 

“ You have given him/her the pill, yes?” 

“ Yes, it will keep them asleep through the whole ceremony.” 

The voices are comparable to mumbling and the kid has no energy to listen. When those pairs of (E/C) irises glance past the pastor’s back, they perceive a dark atmosphere. The only source of lights are the candles that are being held captive in the hooded people’s hands. They blinked tiredly to see more clearly. Unfortunately, the blurriness is turning their vision into fog. What they are able to discern is the robe they are adorned in, which is identical to what their parents are wearing. The minute the pastor shifts around on his feet, (Y/N) rotate their head to glance back at their parents who have pulled their hood down, blending into the gathering. Attempting to open their lips to call for their guardian, yet their nerves are slack. 

Afterward, (Y/N)’s body was laid on top of an altar. The cold, solid surface is overwhelming their dizziness.” The ritual shall begin!” They heard a shout from the pastor who also hid his face underneath the hood. The atmosphere is abnormal, something (Y/N) never witnessed. Unfortunately, they are too drowsy to be suspicious of the gathering. Unable to keep their eyelids ajar, they shut down, enclosing their vision with darkness. Body becomes lax and unresponsive. All senses go unconscious. Not knowing that they couldn't open their eyes again to see another day. 

The entity stared at the offering that emerged in its realm. Immediately it knew why the kid was here.” Interesting.” The entity murmurs as it studies a new specimen.” Poor soul not knowing he/she got sacrificed.” One of its claws proceeds to graze their fringe, feeling the softness against its firm ones. The child will never know the intention behind those humans, and what causes them to be brought into a residence that is unsuitable for their age to inhabit.” What shall I use you for?” The entity query to itself, considering it never received proffer of a young human before. 

No words are being uttered further when the entity summons dark mist around the child, sending them into one of its trials for a test. Only one is performing its duty right now. Pyramid Head. Whether or not its oblation is useful or not depends on their debut. Watching as the kid woke up, exhausted and bewildered as they frantically looked around their new surroundings. This begins their first initial round. 

Behind the kid’s ritual slaughter is. . . desperate. If the Entity may refer to it. In recent periods, the crops are not growing well due to weather, therefore the source of famine occurred. One day, the village's pastor received a prophet from a god, who is the Entity they are worshipping. Spreading an indication regarding a ‘gift’. A newborn who is born during this date, month, year and time will be offered as a ‘gift’ to their god. The villagers and mayor agree to his claim. Alas, a woman birthed a child as the prophecy tells. This kid is raised to be an offering. Their living atmosphere is all a lie. Loving parents, friends and neighbours, a tranquil home. In the end, they did not discover the real truth even after death. 

Even so, the Entity never once sent any messenger to the human world, nor promised sufficiency to their starvation. Considering the worshippers are devoted to a wrong existence. Now the Entity is intrigued with how the villagers are going to react when their problem remains unsolved and that they could not achieve a good life like how they fantasize. The famine will forever haunt the village and eventually, each one of their souls will slowly fade from existence. 

2nd POV

You blinked your eyes open, only to be greeted by two of your plushies that are being held within your arms. Rising into a sitting position as you yawn until tears surface. Carefully stood onto your feet and later grabbed your necessity before leaving the tent. The backpack is adjusted correctly on your shoulder, including plushies in both of your hands.“ Do you sleep well, (Y/N)?” You glance up at the adults who are surrounding the campfire.” Hm.” You nodded your head as you approached where Claudette sat.” I have a strange dream. . .” 

“ Oh, what is the dream I wonder?” Kate sweetly asked and softly played her guitar.” I don't remember.” Your instant response earns multiple chuckles.” Is it a happy dream?” Meg’s question leaves you to ponder.” I think so?” Unsureness is clear in your tone and majority adults treated it as a palaver. The gurgling from your stomach indicates you need to be refilled.” Hahaha! Kid, you'll become a fatso in no time if you keep eating!” David’s chortle causes you to furrow your eyebrows.” Stop it, Dave. He/she is still growing.” Meg argued the facts.” We still have some dried meat left. I'll bring it over.” Jake stood up and proceeded to fetch the said food from his tent. By dried meat, it means raven’s flesh that is burned over the fire. There is little to no nutritional foods available in this realm, leaving them no choice but to scout for possible sources. 

Upon hearing his words, you immediately stop trying to remember the dream and only desire to eat. Maybe the dream could be important so it mustn't be treated as insignificant, but in your mind, food comes first.