Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

???: "Hope. I'm guessing thats what you think I'd start this off with."

???: "Well you're wrong. As if i'd believe in that crap. It's just a stupid little hoax those who are weak believe in to get even just a drop of joy."

???: "And I'm guessing you believe in that too. Don't you? You think that even in the darkest of times hope can sprout and shine through despair. Despair is eternal... why must you follow that messy ideology?"

???: "I should probably make some sort of introduction, as I'm guessing we'll see each other regularly. My name is Themis Galanis, I'm a student at Hopes Peak Academy. Y'know, that elitist school for 'Ultimate' students?' Or..something. I don't really care about the place. As long as I get the education I so deserve."

Themis: "I was recently scouted by the school's new headmaster as the 'Ultimate Prosecutor.' I feel like I already attended before, but I've been preparing slightly so I can see how it feels that way. I can understand why they chose me, I am pretty good. I'm not full of myself by the way, I just know that I'm a lot greater than most people... and deserve to be credited for it."

Themis: "Anyways. There's meant to be a party today for my class. I'm not a fan of parties, but I'm kind of being made to go. I heard that we would stay home for the day, but a bus is will pick us up."

Themis: "... I don't get why I'm explaining this. I'll be late for 'school.'"

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I pulled on my tie, tightening it.  I fixed my sleeves to be seamless, and looked into my mirror.

Themis: "Looking good."

My fingers ran through my hair, it falling back into place. If I had to guess, this mirror must be blushing simply from my presence. After hearing my reflection praise me I checked my watch, raising my brows with suspicion. 

Themis: "You gotta be serious. How the hell can I possibly be late to leave? It didn't feel like three extra minutes passed..."

With a loud scoff, I hastily rushed out my bathroom to my front door. Can't believe I'd let myself stand around doing nothing. I just angrily put on my dress shoes while carrying my satchel. I was already halfway out the door. Don't ask about a stupid satchel.. backpacks are for childish wimps. I can't be seen with something like that.

I don't think my mom even wished me a good day. She doesn't really care for me much anyways, so I don't really care. 

My shoes crackled across the concrete and my walking was tense. I held my breath so any passerby's couldn't hear me. Luckily there were pebbles on the sidewalk that I could kick to make noise. Even if I had just sounded out of breath, it would tank my reputation for being weak.

While sprinting down the street, I figured I should probably check my mail, therefore I have an actual excuse as to why I was behind on time.

When I eventually arrived to my mail box, I felt an odd sense of worry cast over my shadow in the beaming sun. Nothing.. makes me feel this way, so why the hell was my heart dropping? I kept trying to ignore it, opening my mail box. It was one of those community ones, so I did have to search a bit. Luckily I was greeted with a sealed envelope to ease my paranoia.

I slipped the envelope open, making sure not to wrinkle the fine paper. There was only two things inside the envelope... A stamp, and a letter. Upon opening the letter I was greeted with large fancy text.

"Dear recipient of this letter. Congratulations on your recent enrolment to Hopes Peak Academy! The higher-ups of the school faculty have recognized you and your class' great achievements and immaculate progress. With our expectations being far more than exceeded than last years class, and we are proud to announce that you and your classmates have been invited to a dinner party like no other hosted by the schools headmaster, John Durkin! If you choose to accept this invitation, please mark this letter with the stamp we provided inside the envelope and mail it back with the return address we have marked on the back. IF you choose to accept, please note that you will be picked up at your home on September 15th at your regular school time.  Kind regards from your headmaster, J.D."

...

Themis: "What? The 15th is tomorrow..."

Parties. I don't enjoy them. In fact, I hate them. All that stupid joy and conversation... It makes me sick. 

I wanted to crumple up the letter. Maybe even set it on fire, but a thought ran through my head. "If you want your reputation to stay smooth, a party will surely boost it." 

I just have to attend the party, I don't have to actually converse. After considering the letter for a moment, I dug into the envelope to take the stamp. The stamp was a deep blue colour, just like my trench coat. The print on the stamp was of two scales, one of them hanging lower than the other. I'm guessing it was meant to represent hope versus despair. 

One thing I did notice is that the stamps that were already signed didn't match the design I was given. All the designs were different, like a coffee cup and a pirate ship. There were 15 stamps already on the paper. I haven't really paid much attention to my class during the first couple of days I had attended, but I can sort of recall there being 16 of us... Why was I the last person to get this useless letter anyways? I should've been the first one to be mailed it. That dumb professor makes interesting choices...

With an annoyed scoff, I pressed the stamp at a spot that was away from the cluster of the other ink blotches. I held it on the paper for a few seconds, but I could see it was starting to bleed through.

Themis: "Shit.."

You have to be kidding me, I just ruined the entire damn letter. This day hasn't been going as perfect as I had thought it would be like my others. I grumbled loudly, stuffing the letter back in the envelope. I don't care about the letter anymore, I just want to get to school. I stashed the crinkled envelope into the nearby dropbox, starting to continue my walk to school.

My feet hurt. I don't know why I do this to myself, I have a license. I wanted to stop to sit at a bench but my legs kept moving. I felt disconnected from my bottom half.

While I was travelling, I passed by a cemetery... I had walked by it several times when I first started school and didn't have any problems with it, so I'm unsure why I felt tenser. It... may have been the fact that there were several crows sprouted around. They stared at me with their black eyes which had kind of reminded me of pearls or marbles. 

I noticed my legs were starting to slow down. Am I seriously getting intimidated by birds? Why am I being so weak today...

Themis: "The hell do you want, bird-brain?"

I shouted at a crow that flapped down in front of me... which made me stop in my tracks. The crow tilted it's head at me, the others flying down closer. I felt.. unfortunately frightened by being circled by birds. 

Crows: "CAW! CAW! CAW!"

My heart dropped to it's knees as soon as the birds screamed at me. They started flapping and flying around me, and I could've sworn some of them had bitten me. I yelped in fear, patting myself down to try and get these crappy birds off my nice clothes.

They... eventually left, but I was covered in feathers. While I was picking some feathers off, an old car drove by. It looked so old, like it was in an entirely different time period. Whoever was driving the car must have snapped a photo, as a bright flash emitted from near the car's window.

Themis: "HEY! YOU BETTER NOT GO SPREAD THAT DAMN PHOTO AROUND, GOT THAT?!"

I was yelling loudly, raising my fist in the air as I paced down the street to follow the car. If a photo of me like that got published, my reputation would be as good as gone. I can't risk that... But I also don't want to go chase a car down the street.

The more I stand around the later I'll be. I just need to get to school. I started sprint-walking down the sidewalk, shoving my way pass any obstacles.

...

I eventually arrived, walking in through the doors. People kept getting in my way about why I was so late, so I had to keep repeating myself about mail. When I did get to class my day got slightly more boring.

It sort of just passed by quickly. We were notified by John about the party when the day had ended though, which is really the only notable thing.

When I got home I just did what I usually do. I ate dinner with my mom and did some crossword puzzles in the newspaper. That's really all.

Upon laying down for the night I felt extremely restless. I was anxious about the party. I should have just tore that paper the shreds...

I did eventually fall asleep, but I kept having an image of a clown flash in my brain.. I can't really explain it.

...

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After I had woken up it was a pretty easy morning.. When the bus arrived I had given the lousy bus driver my bags and boarded. 

While I was sitting at the back of the bus, a girl attempted to sit near me. I think her name was Linda.. Lane.. something. I don't care enough about my class to know their ridiculous names.

My head rested along the window, occasionally bumping when the bus drove over a road-workers lame excuse of work. I just wanted to take a nap, I'd need the energy to handle the wrath of my "peers."

...

I was awoken by my phone vibrating in my pocket. My eyes flashed open, twitching as they both looked down. I grumpily reached down, gripping the rubber phone case encapsulating my device.

I carried my phone up to my left ear after pressing the lime-coloured answer button, being greeted with an annoying voice on the other side.

???: "Hello!"

Themis: "What do you want...?"

As soon as I registered the persons vocal range, I felt like my brain was going to explode.

???: "I'm here to talk about the school newspapers! We noticed you were right on the front cover. Would you mind telling us your name?"

Themis: "Newspapers? I don't know anything about a newspaper... It's nice they recognize my efforts though I guess. And I do mind."

This must be the person some of my class was talking about. I think I overheard a couple of them getting phone calls and messages.

???: "Well.. Would you like to answer some questions?"

Themis: "No."

I could feel my annoyance building up...

???: "Great! How do you feel about the people in your class? We were told you definitely have views on your class, but we wanna know it right from you!"

My wrist shook in anger. I wanted to hang up so bad, but I know they'd probably call my back.

Themis:  "I hate them. They're extremely annoying and think they have the social status to talk to me. I'd rather they all drop out so I can get the education I deserve."

???: "Right..right. Your class did say you had very negative opinions on them. I hope you have fun on your party."

Themis: "Excuse me? How do you know I'm going to a party."

My phone beeped in my ear. That person on the other line hung up. I just stared at the back of the seat in front of me in disbelief.

I felt a strike of fear form in my nerves, it electrocuting my back as it hit. 

Themis: "The fuck is wrong with people..."

I whispered to myself, resting my head on the window once more.

Eventually my senses blurred, my vision becoming a dark void. I didn't dream of anything, like I usually never do.

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I was disturbed from my empty voided rest, my eyes twitching open.

???: "Hey, it's time to get up. We've arrived."

As I shifted my head off the bus window, I saw an averaged height woman standing by my bus seat with a warm smile. She was in some ugly green dress...like she was going to a party. Of course we are going to one, but I mean an actual party..

I started to recognize her after observing her more. It was the girl who tried sitting by me at the start of the bus ride.

We both walked out of the bus, stepping outside. 

The sun was setting. I could feel a ray of sun hit my face. How long did that bus ride take... 

The sun always pestered me, I much preferred the silent moon. The light stung my eyes no matter what direction I looked at, as if the sun's light was trapped in my goggles.

These goggles help me in ways you can't imagine. It's not needed to dumb it down.

I shifted my posture away from the girl as we stood together behind the crowd. I didn't want to be near her. I still found my posture going back, having to fix it to propel away from her.

There was 13 other people standing ahead of us, me and her making 15. I wonder who saved me from their presence and chose not to arrive.

???: "So. You Excited? I can't wait for the party."

My back warmed as she spoke.  From anger.

Themis: "Quit talking to me. I'm not interested."

???: "Well I am. And I bet you are, otherwise there'd be only 14 of us here."

Themis: "The craziest thing besides your dress is the fact that no, I'm actually not interested at all."

???: "Well thanks for noticing. Your attire isn't too bad yourself."

That wasn't a compliment, it was just a true statement. Compliments are made up "truths" used to make people feel better of their idiocy.

???: "So when are the doors opening?"

A different voice rose above the crowds clashes. It sounded tired and professional, a more brooding and... scratchy feminine following it.

???: "We must wait 'till we enter the sirens palace..."

???: "Uhm... it's called The Rose Resort, miss."

A slow and elegant song of a voice sprung out of the woman who spoke after.

???: "My my! These doors are so shiny. Ammonium hydroxide sure is a life saver."

A small nerd approached the front doors, his back bending slightly.

???: "Uh, yeah. Sure is..."

A girl dressed in streetwear walked beside the nerd, him starting to walk away. Deserved, I wouldn't want to stand by someone who looked homeless.

???: "Hm? What is that..."

A blue-coated guy spoke to himself oddly loud, pointing at the front door while swaying his briefcase. He had.. an animals ears and tail on his body.. weirdo. I looked over to where his finger shot a sword at, seeing something... odd.

I walked over to the front door. I was able to get a better view of the lobby from outside, but all I could focus on was a balloon floating behind the reception desk.

Themis: "It's just a balloon... get over it-"

I was abruptly interrupted by the sound of a lock opening, the door automatically swinging open in front of me. I had to lean back slightly to avoid being hit.

???: "Soo.. does that mean we enter?"

a short girl spoke nonsensical french while brushing past me into the building.

???: "Little girl wait.."

That overly dressed woman followed her in, holding the sides of her puffy skirt. 

Some others looked inside, stepping in. Eventually we all made our way inside, standing near or around the lobby. The balloon was still floating. It was eerily decorated; there were clown paintings hung up everywhere. The furniture looked like it came from the 60s, but it oddly didn't smell old. The red, white, gold, and orange colour scheme spread around the lobby was an eyesore to witness, but it felt warm inside.

There were sculptures of clowns standing in corners, some busts on pillars leading to the pathway to the receptionists desk. There were party banners spread around, which is to be considered with the situation, but they seemed to match the buildings color scheme a little too well.

While I stood with my claws in my pockets, I couldn't help but feel a drip of unease crawl it's way down my back. It was like the paintings had human eyes. One of them at least.

???: "This place looks so gross... It's like a circus themed retirement home. But.. still cute nonetheless.. I guess."

A black haired boy looked around the room. He was wearing a news cap with some bunny ears attached to it. His clothes somewhat matched his hat, following the theme of pastel yellow.

A loud clap blew through my ears, like a strike of thunder. It came from the receptionists desk, the room falling silent to observe ahead of them.

An older looking man appeared behind the desk, holding the balloon from earlier. He had a monotone expression. It matched his clothes. He was wearing a clown outfit, very frilly and patterned, yet it was white, brown, and black, a colour I wouldn't assume a kid's clown to wear. It was slightly uncomfortable to look at... he had a clown mask blocking his nose and eyes. The only thing visible was his prominent moustache and his birds nest of hair. I could've sworn I saw something moving inside it. I think Professor Durkin had a moustache, but it was a bit bigger. It couldn't have been him though. I know one thing for sure, Professor Durkin didn't smell like bird poop.

???: "Ohhh.. he smells so unique..!"

A short girl in a party outfit had a forced smile on her face, nodding at the clown man. 

???: "Welcome you all... to the Rose Resort. I am the receptionist here, as well as the janitor, room service, chef, and bellhop, which is what I'd prefer you call me from now on."

???: "Quite... the list.. I'm certainly impressed."

While the clown man was explaining details of the place, I noticed someone on their phone. Even though I didn't care for this persons rambling, the others should probably be paying attention. I nudged over, flicking my pointer finger on their wrist.

Themis: "Are you even paying attention?? You're being disrespectful."

The person raised his head from his phone with an annoyingly bubbly smile. He smelled like Cherries.

???: "Oh yeah, I like def am- but like I'm also on the phone, so..."

I scoffed at the boy, looking at him with an angered frown. He looked a bit panicked afterwards, walking off to sit at a polka-dot chair in the lobby, typing on his phone.

Bellhop: "... I do hope you enjoy the Rose Resort. This hotel was created some years now.. it houses many necessities like a swimming pool and garden... as well as an infirmary. We have an arcade on the other side of the building."

???: "Y'know.. I don't really see any roses around. So why is it in the buildings name?"

Bellhop: "The resort is named after the founder... Here are your room keys."

The clown bent down under the desk like a rubberhose cartoon, rising back up with a small box. He opened it, revealing several different room keys.

???: "I thought we were just here for dinner? What's with the keys?"

Bellhop: "Rooms are needed to hold events inside the resort... my apologies. You may take one."

Some people glanced at each other, hesitantly approaching the desk. They reached their hands into the box, taking out a key and walking out of the lobby to a hall.

???: "You coming?"

The puffy dress girl stood at the desk waiting for me, dangling a key from a ring like wind-chimes. Her head was tilted as if to invite me. 

I crossed my arms, looking at her. But her smile was to genuine.. I put my arms down and walked towards the desk, dishing out a key.

While grabbing my key, I peered over the desk, noticing.. an iron ball resting on the marble floor beside the bellhop.

...

The man stared at me through his clown mask. It was like his eyes were jabbing my back with fear.

???: "I bet you're just calling me 'dress girl' hm? Maybe I should actually introduce myself, hm?"

She caught me slightly off guard. I placed my key in my coat pocket, clearing my throat while taking my eyes off the bellhop's imprisoning ball-chain.

Themis: "I have an idea. Maybe you shouldn't!"

???: "Well! I guess I'll simply call you 'coat boy'!"

She gave a smirk, thinking that it would upset me. It... did. I hate being given a nickname, I deserve to be referred to my righteous name. I could feel my lips twitch.

Themis: "My name is... Themis Galanis. Get it right next time."

The girl let out a pleasant giggle. 

???: "My name is Lauren Genesis. My Ultimate is a bit confusing...but I study a trees rings to figure out when they were first formed into a tree! Dendrochronology if that.. makes sense."

Themis: "I didn't ask for your name. Nor your Ultimate. It sounds stupid anyways..

Lauren: "Well Mr. Grump, what's your 'way better' Ultimate?"

Themis: "I'm already aware that it's far better than yours. But thanks for the statement. I'm the Ultimate Prosecutor."

I wore a confident grin on my face while speaking, expecting to be complimented.

Lauren: "Like a court type person? Interesting. Well, now that we're done with introduction, maybe we should go join the others. 

I gave a rushed nod. I just wanted to get away from that bellhop guy. We both entered what seemed to be a main hall, walking into the cafeteria like place.

My nose was free from that guys stench, but I started smelling popcorn when we entered the cafeteria.. with none in sight.

There were some people sitting down at a long table centred in the middle, others standing around and taking in the weird scenery.

Lauren stood by, holding her pressed together palms up to her face like a prayer. She was looking around, her eyes radiating with eagerness.

Lauren: "Soo. Got to know everyone in the class? They're definitely a bunch."

Themis: "A buncha morons..."

I held my arms to my side, holding my back up. She was shorter than me, but her odd variety of headwear made her taller than me. Guess she's insecure of being short.

Just as I thought about the professor not being here, the room fell silent, some small footsteps echoed down the halls. Some chatterboxes were whispering, but other than that it was silent.

An old man appeared at the entrance to the cafeteria in a dapper suit. He was. shakily holding a cane. He glanced around, getting an eye of everyone.

???: "Seems that we're missing one... oh well. Hello class! I'm happy that most of you attended. I can't wait for the dinner to start."

It was John Durkin. The host of the party, our class professor, and the headmaster at our school.

???: "Is it not done...? I could help out maybe."

John: "Ohoh. Not needed Arthur. The food will be delivered."

John had a gleaming smile, his wrinkles popping up when his eyes rose. He had bushy white eyebrows slightly covering the top of his eyelids. He looked old like he usually did. He always looked like one of those sick old people holding onto life by a thread, just asking for their life support to be unplugged, but being kept alive by doctors so their death rate doesn't increase. At least he accepted his old pain.

???: "Fast food isn't the best... healthy option. I thought we would be getting a healthy and proportioned meal."

The tall man with the tired voice spoke again, looking very...solemn.

John: "Haha, concerned for your classmates health as always hm, Rick? I ordered food from a fancy restaurant. It will be healthy, don't worry. There'll be dessert though."

The man...or.."Rick" let out a smile of relief. It was gross how selfless John made him sound. He was probably only thinking about his own worthless diet. I doubt he ate much anyways...he was quite slim. But I guess still well framed.

John: "Since dinner will not be here, I guess you may have some freetime. Feel free to explore, I doubt whoever runs this joint would mind. I was only in the bathroom prior, so I didn't really see much. We'll reconvene when our meal arrives!"

Most of the attendants left the cafeteria, only me, Lauren, and Professor Durkin. And... two others. That guy who was on his phone earlier, and a short girl in a party uniform.

John cleared his throat while stepping towards me and Lauren, smiling as he arrived.

John: "Hello Lauren! And... ah.."

You gotta be kidding me. How does someone forget MY name?! I could understand if I was Lauren, but it's an absolute disgrace to have my name not in someones brain.

Themis: "My name is Themis. Aren't you our teacher? You should know my name. With...all due respect, 'sir.'"

I guess you're meant to treat older people with more respect. I don't get it though, all they have going for them is that they're weaker and more fragile. How do you expect me to treat you with respect if you need help going up and down stairs..

John: "Well sorry. I hardly know your name because you don't socialize with the class. Maybe we can use this party as an opportunity to get to know your classmates a bit more, hm?"

Lauren: "He does have a point Themis."

Themis: "Why do I need to get to know them? They already know me, thats all I need."

I saw Lauren raise her eyebrow with a grin...but..I just chose to ignore it.

John: "What are the odds of us striking a conversation with those two over there and them both knowing your name? Can we get an answer?"

...

Themis: "Fine..."

How can such an old person have such an annoying personality? Just go back to sitting down and reading or drinking tea...

Lauren: "Well then. Let's not keep your peers waiting."

Themis: "You mean my inferiors? Sure..."

I scoffed to the side, holding my back up as the three of us walked over to the two party guests.

The girl was standing by the table the guy was sitting at, holding a tea cup with a grin.. but she placed it down when we approached.

I guess I have to meet all these two... and everyone else now..

...

Themis: "Themis Galanis. Ultimate Prosecutor. I'm apart of your class."

I firmly started conversation, crossing my arms. I noticed that the cherry scented one poked his head up from his phone when I talked. At least he's somewhat trained.

???: "Oh hi teach, and Lauren! Who's...or well I guess he already.."

The boy smiled at Lauren, her waving back and motioning her head over to me. Good she knew the focus was on me.

The guy looked over at me with...a different expression. Why must he catch glimpses of me in such an annoying way? It's insulting the way his blonde eyebrows shifted with nerve. Guess he still holds a grudge from me trying to help him be respectful.

John: "Well sir. That's a nice introduction...Think you can beat that, Lev?"

While John spoke, the short girl made a coughing sound. She held her knuckles to her lips, glancing over to the cherry guy.

???: "Uhmm.. Oh yeah, right! I'm still on the phone but... My name is Leviathan Rich! I'm a Fashion Idol, which is also my Ultimate. I prefer influencer though...but I guess I couldn't have that title."

I finally recognized how pale the dude actually was, wondering if he'd ever even seen the sun before. That waiting outside from earlier was probably enough to give him a sunburn tomorrow.

Themis: "You certainly live up to that last name..."

I noticed that the short girl started tapping her dress shoes on the wooden floor. She had an apple-like frame, but it was hard to concentrate on it with her tapping. It was like she was doing it on purpose. Purposely loud enough to grab my vision.

Leviathan: "Oh! Thank youuu!! I didn't really know what to wear for the party so I just went with my favourite color, red!"

...

Themis: "It was an insult...moron. This is just a school party, not one of your stupid shows. No need for all that."

Leviathan: "Uhh.. I mean I'd like to treat it like it was, I feel nice looking my best..."

He just looked at Lauren and back at my goggles with confusion. I was hoping it would be sadness, but I guess it didn't work.

Lauren: "Well.. why don't we say hi to Geo-"

The girls dress shoes made a loud clack on the floor, as if to silence Lauren. She just put her hand down and gave a gross smile while looking up.

???: "Hello Themis. It is definitely.. an experience to meet you! How are you?"

She clapped her hands together with a grin.

Themis: "It would've been better had I not came here..."

???: "Mhm.. yeah! But it's nice that you are here. Would you like some tea...?"

She adjusted her black and pink bowler hat to show her face more.

Themis: "I'm good. I'm more of a water person, y'know? I actually care about my health."

I threw a sarcastic remark towards her. I'm guessing it broke through her ego as she instantly glanced over to Leviathan with a similar expression.

???: "Uhm. Well my name is Georgia Griffiths. I'm the Ultimate Tea Party Planner! Host works too as well though. Thank you for not asking and allowing me to say it myself, I rarely get to."

She nodded her head while her eyes closed, tapping her sparkly magenta nails on the old clown themed table.

It got quiet...

John: "Well then, I presume that wraps up this here uh.. mini meeting? hoho.."

Georgia: "Oh no-no-no! I have so much to talk about! You're a prosecutor? I suppose that's why you have quite the personality. Ah, but in a good way!"

Themis: "I'm aware that my personality is admirable."

I didn't bother smiling, I already knew the credibility of facts she spat out.

Georgia: "The fact you can't take compliments proves how much confidence you have! That's a good trait to have."

She gave me a grin, yet it felt like something was missing in her expression.

Themis: "Well, I think we can continue on the tour, Professor Durkin."

Lauren: "Mmm, I agree. We still need to greet everyone! Nice talk, Georgia."

Georgia let out a small sigh, glancing at Leviathan.

Leviathan: "Ohh.. yeah, bye!"

The three of us looked at the exit of the cafeteria, walking over to continue on with the tour. Yet I felt like we were being watched. I'd assume from Georgia or...the cherry guy.

...

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...

Pale fingers grazed along the kitties head, polka dot nails poking into it's fur like blades.

Dim oil lamps hanging from the walls as if they were men, guiding the rooms ambience to comfort and mystery...

Lively and upbeat tempos echoing across the room, yet also being choked by the sound of static and scratches from the gramophone holding its hands around the music's throat.

The hand reached into a dish, taking a small treat out. the kitty leaned it's head over, eating it. a feminine voice giggled, her faded red eyes shooting daggers towards the several monitors. The grey video had matched the rooms decoration not.

Ḧ̸̛̼͔̄͛́͂̒͝e̷̛͔̹̳͑͑ř̵͕͈̍͆̇: "It's almost time! Our game is nearing the start, oh how isn't that so wondrous my dear Giuseppe? ... The only one of you left..what the shame.."

The woman glanced down at the scraggly cat, peering over to the wall displaying cat bones and collars. The door of the room opened, the aging of it making a loud creak.

Bellhop: "They are exploring the resort, Miss."

Ḧ̸̛̼͔̄͛́͂̒͝e̷̛͔̹̳͑͑ř̵͕͈̍͆̇: "Curiosity always killed the cat, no? Hehe! Just let them wander...and get working on supper. Make sure that old rag lets out his final croak with a mouthful. Hehe."

Laughter drowned out the carnivals tune, the bellhop joining in with a toothy smile.

Bellhop: "Affirmative..."

The bellhop shut the door, leaving the woman back in the confinement of her circuses comfort..

...

◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢

...

Lauren and I walked down the main hall, having to slow down occasionally so John could keep up. There was a tall and elegant woman standing near a fountain that was in the hallway. The walls held carnival themed wallpaper glued to them, a mix of stripes and polka dots and decals spread about. They matched the lobby's color scheme still though. It just now registered in my head that this whole resort is most likely all clown themed...

Lauren: "Why don't we go talk to that lady over there...? She seems lonely. Just try to allow the sharing of yourselves be equal. Don't overshare...but don't under share as well."

John: "Look at you Lauren, always giving the advice."

John let out a chuckle. I don't understand what he meant by it... it sounded like he was mocking her though, which made me smile from it.

???: "What an odd nose you have..."

The girl was talking to a clown statue. they were littered all down the hall.

I cleared my throat while standing behind her, being given a scared shriek back. The woman turned back quickly, the statue wobbling on it's pillar.

I could hear the professor and Lauren gasp as the statue danced around the edges of the chiselled pillar. It eventually came falling down, the others backing up. I extended my hand with haste, catching the statue. It felt heavy, but the cold marble was nice against my skin.

???: "Wow! That statue almost fell on me... uhm.. thank you. That's one way to introduce myself."

Themis: "Mm, yeah, good observation."

???: "Well isn't that nice sentence. I always liked a man with short words."

She had a lustrous effect to her voice, my mouth squiggling with uncertainty. I don't have time for any type of love. As I for one do not love anyone but myself.

I sighed afterwards, still holding the statue with my hands.

???: "Maybe I should make this a bit more formal... for my sake. Greetings sir that never saved my life, my name is Viola Lewis. Although...you should know that already, we are in the same class. What is a man like you hanging around such a pristine woman as Lauren?"

She talks...a lot...

Themis: "Fun fact, I actually don't know you-"

As soon as I uttered those words, I saw Viola make an angered frown, a slap from her dark caramel hand soon whipping against my cheek. What the hell?! 

Lauren: "Uh..Viola..!"

Viola: "I am the Ultimate Jeweller! You certainly know me!"

... 

I just stayed silent from embarrassment...

Lauren: "Viola! Calm yourself... he doesn't know you. He doesn't know anyone in the class. He was trying to introduce himself... that's what he decided to during this free time!"

Lauren spoke with a scolding tone, Viola holding her arms to her chest.

Lauren: "We were just trying to get to know you. This is Themis Galanis.. and he is a prosecutor. We'll be on our way now if you do not mind."

Lauren grabbed my hand. Or tried to.. I took my hand back but still followed her as we walked off a bit. I heard John talking to that girl while we left.

...

Lauren: "Okay... well that definitely went wrong. But at least it wasn't your fault. Hopefully the next person we meet won't be as rude. Viola does have attitude on her..."

Professor soon left Viola, quickly walking over to us with a grumpy expression. Viola seemed to storm off back to the cafeteria.

John: "Well... aren't you a ladies man?"

...Seriously?

Themis: "What are these two rooms? One of them looks a lot fancier than the other."

John: "Only one way to find out, eh, Laurie?"

He chuckled with a crumbled old voice. Typical. But I don't see what calling your students nicknames does. Besides make Lauren be a child and giggle I guess.

Lauren: "Haha. John, Lauren is fine. Don't worry, I'm still gonna think you're a cool teacher."

I noticed Lauren's face change. I guess she didn't like that nickname. For whatever reason..I suppose.

John: "Then I guess I'm just Mr. Durkin. I might be old but I'd still like to be a cool teach."

The two laughed while I just stood silently at the fancy door. They eventually walked over when they were done of their stupid comedy routine.

Teachers are meant to be formal. Not 'cool'. I kept muttering to myself while I opened the fancy door, the three of us walking in.

I was met with a warm breeze from a fireplace. The room was more dim than the other rooms we had been in, and the weird old people music wasn't as loud in here.

There were two fancy clown couches near the fireplace on top of..gross patterned rugs. There were a lot of rugs on the floor overlapping each other, some even nailed onto the wall. It felt like a walking fire hazard.

The walls were made up of wooden shelves with brown stain and gold accents lining them. They had all these books on them. They looked ashy and old..but some of them looked intact, while others looked burnt. A wide variety, but a library in a place like this is weird. Especially one with a spiral staircase leading to a second floor.

Lauren: "Oh..! This room looks comfortable."

John: "Yes, it does..! Reminds me of home. I've a large collection of books and a big fireplace. Several rooms..like that I suppose."

Well. At least he knows to bloat about the things he has better. That's a good sign of a leader. 

I could go on about my own things I'm better at than this entire party together, but I'm starting to get bored...

Themis: "What's that noise? Upstairs."

Footsteps were coming from the second floor of the library. They didn't sound like any type of dress shoe though.

Lauren walked towards the stairs, me and the professor just standing by and looking at each other.

Lauren: "Hello? Is anyone up there?"

The footsteps stopped, but they then continued as they got louder and closer.

Lauren backed away from the stairs as they walked down. When they finally got down they just stood there. It was that...homeless looking girl from earlier.

???: "Oh.. hey, Lauren. Uh. What's up?"

She seemed anxious. I could tell that she had wiped her forehead for sweat before she came down.

Lauren: "Oh nothing! It's good to see you though, I'm just exploring this fancy place with Mr. Durkin and...well, I'll let him introduce himself. That's what we're trying at least."

Lauren gave a smile, shuffling to the side with her shoes brushing against the carpet.

Themis: "I'm.. Themis Galanis. Ultimate Prosecutor. I am requesting your full name and occupation. Or 'Ultimate' talent."

I don't really believe she has a talent. With the way she dresses she's probably just a random squatter that chose to join us. I doubt John could memorize his class that well, especially with the year just barely starting.

???: "Oh. Cool, Them-"

Themis: "Don't call me that."

I quickly put an end to the girls delinquency. Anything the girl does is probably evil spirited.

???: "Alright.. Uh. The name's Skye Webber. I'm uh. Unfortunately the Ultimate Graffiti Cleaner..."

She held the strap of her brown bag that hung from her hip to her other shoulder while holding her hand out towards. She seemed embarrassed, yet wanting to be friendly.

Themis: "Well then I see I mistook you. Thank you for making sure the streets are left clean."

Without emotion, I went to shake her hand, but she moved it back with hesitation after I spoke. I suppose I'm just that intimidating. Even a punk like her cowers upon coming in contact.

Skye: "Oh.. uh. I mean- yeah.. Sure. Sorry.."

I realized she was having trouble figuring where at my face to look at. But I can't just take off these goggles. I never know when I might need them, or to shield my eyes incase there are others dressed..like her. 

Lauren: "Well Skye I must ask, what are you doing here? And why are you in so much worry?"

John: "Mmm, yeah. You look pretty panicked."

Skye just smiled a bit with a chuckle. I assume she was trying to find her next words.

Themis: "Yeah. You kinda stink too- Ow..!"

I felt the end of a heel jab into my foot, Lauren letting out a cough as she smiled back at Skye.

Skye: "I mean, I know a library isn't really my thing, but... I'm just trying to find Octavius. I figured he'd have ran off in a place like this? But he isn't here. I'm just...a bit anxious if he's lost."

Themis: "Well we haven't met a nerd on our way. We'll let you know when we do though."

Skye: "Uh.. yeah. Thanks..."

I don't get why she sounded so annoyed. I was just offering.

Skye: "Well I guess I'm gonna go. I bet he's somewhere around here."

Lauren: "Alrighty! Would you like to come with us? We're just having a tour, I bet we'd stumble upon him on the way."

Skye had her hands back in her pockets. She looked over at me before looking back at Lauren.

Skye: "Uhh... I'm good. don't worry. Don't wanna get in your way."

John: "Well good luck on finding your brother, Skye. Now even I am worried... a little guy like him and such a big building don't quite mix."

...What???

She sighed, following the three of us while we left the library. She did go further down the hall after, leaving us alone again.

Lauren: "I thought it was going great. Until you...insulted her and her brother."

Themis: "So? I was just making conversation, her fault she can't handle me."

All Lauren did was sigh. 

We walked to the lower class doors that were across the library ones, going around the fountain centred in the middle. It was a sculptured crowd of clowns with the water shooting out of their noses. It looked in pristine shape.

John: "Well. I wonder what's inside here."

I opened the door, it surprisingly making a loud creak. It stung my drums, but it's better to not show the pain. Unlike the other two...

Lauren: "Oh... Th-that's an unpleasant sound."

John: "Certainly. If my ears weren't growing hair I bet I'd be deaf..!"

He let out a chuckle. Old people jokes are... they can be barely classified as jokes. 

When we stepped inside I was met with the smell of old musk. It smelt older than Professor even. This room must not be used normally. It was a hallway that extended to the left and right with two other rooms with glass windows showing the inside of the rooms.

Lauren: "It's quite dusty... and it seems that these two rooms connect to this one. Weird."

Themis: "Really? I didn't get that when I first walked in and saw the exact same thing."

I walked down to the right, looking through the dirtied glass windows to see inside. The windows went from the bottom to the top of the wall near the door.

Themis: "These look like yoga rooms. But...really worn out. There's boxes and cobwebs."

John: "Seem's no one is in here as well. I suppose we'll keep walking?"

Lauren: "Mhm! On our way we go."

Lauren coughed as she hurried out, Professor following behind her.

This one room felt different than everything else in this resort. It was still clown themed, but it was so much more uncared for.

I wouldn't mind doing some investigating later on... if I ever get the chance to.

I walked out to find the two, walking down the hall further.

John: "Ah.. well here is the farthest I walked earlier. The uh.. bathrooms."

Lauren: "There also seems to be a laundromat parallel to it! It definitely is fitting for a resort though so I don't have any complaints."

Professor wobbled over to the laundromat with his cane, Lauren standing by while walking with him.

John: "Not in my...ah I forget..years of being here have I ever seen a clown themed laundry machine..."

Lauren: "Some of the paintings are definitely off putting, but I do like all the colours."

Lauren: "Are you coming Themis?"

Themis: "I can see the entire room from where I'm standing. No need to go in."

I just stood in the middle of the hallway, crossing my arms. I was annoyed.

Themis: "I'll go check out the bathroom instead. It's probably better than this."

With a quick step back, I turned around and went into the boys bathroom.

The aesthetic matched the rest of the rooms of course, but it felt more pristine. It is a bathroom of course, so I don't get why I'm complaining.

Themis: "Hmmm."

I went over to the sink and mirror, observing the mirror and my fond reflection. 

I grinned at the man looking back at me. I didn't show my teeth as I rarely smile with them, or smile at all, but if I did they would have glistened in the mirror.

I checked under the sinks, looking at the pipes. There could be anything anywhere.

...

Nothing. Everywhere I looked there was barely anything. Even in the plant that was in one of the corners. It was just soil in it...

Themis: "Seriously? How can there be nothing..."

A light bulb lit up in my head suddenly as I glanced over to the stalls. 

I walked over to the stalls, putting my hand on the door handle. There must be something in here. 

I swung open the door, lavender scented wind hitting my face. I was met with... a teddy bear.

Underwhelming. But it had cute eyes. Someone definitely had to of left it here though. At least I was correct of something being up with this place. Teddy bears don't occasionally spawn in by themselves. 

It could've been left here for someone. But who left it..?

...

Professor said he was in the bathroom prior to seeing us at the cafeteria. He most likely isn't the nice old man he shows he is. Quite suspicious... I'll see if I can get anything out of him later on.

I stepped away from the stall, making my way out of the bathroom.

John: "Ah there he is. Lauren is.."

Lauren wasn't anywhere in sight. Without an obnoxious chatterbox, it was...quiet. But my saved day was quickly ruined once more as Lauren walked out of a room further down the hall, waving her hand over to bring us closer.

It unfortunately worked, me and Professor walking over to join her. 

Lauren: "There is also a small gym!"

Themis: "I don't exactly work out. I don't care for a gym. At least for weight lifting..."

Lauren: "Well at least you know now if you ever wanted to make a change."

John: "Oh haha I remember the gym. Can't go anymore unfortunately..."

As I was about to speak up at Professor, I noticed someone standing inside the gym. It frightened me, causing my face to twitch. It made my heart race, but I didn't make it obvious about that of course.

A short boy stared at us, slowly walking over to Lauren. He was extremely quiet during the entire thing.

He wore extremely oversized clothes. His white sleeves covered his hands completely and his shoes were barely visible from under his pants. 

Lauren: "Oh! Hello Apollo."

Apollo: "H....i..."

I was greeted with what could be best described as a dying dragons roar. It sounded like his voice was being dragged across pavement.

Themis: "Jesus. The fuck is wrong with your voice?!"

The small guy immediately looked down in sadness, covering his mouth with both of his oversized sleeves.

Professor coughed. From surprisement of my truthfulness I assume.

Lauren: "Themis.. please don't say that. Just. Let's just introduce ourselves and then continue on our way."

Her voice hissed at me like a snake...

The dude was silent. He held a notepad in his hands. Even if there were covered by his sleeves he was still able to maintain a grip on it.

Themis: "Uh. Hello small sir. I am Themis.. and it's okay to meet you."

Lauren just stared at Apollo with sadness. I don't get why though.

He was still quiet. But he took a pencil out and scribbled on a sheet of paper from his notepad. When he was done he flipped the notepad around to show what it said. It read "Apollo Flow. Journalist."

It was quiet...

Themis: "So we got a skinny model, a tea girl, Ms. Entitled, some homeless woman, and a silent type?"

I held my hand on my side, tilting my head down to Lauren.

Lauren: "Uhh, yea..! You have a very diverse class! It's an honour to be able to be with them for the rest of the school year!"

She formed a smile, turning my meant to be insult into a compliment. Weirdo...

Lauren: "Well it was nice talking to you, Apollo. We'll see you at dinner."

Wasn't talking...more like a one sided conversation, but whatever.

John: "Ahh, yes, yes! I can't wait for dinner to arrive."

Themis: "Okay.."

Apollo waved goodbye to Lauren, the three of us continuing to walk down the hall.

The hall proceeded to go left, another hallway extending a far distance. There was a metal shutter covering what seemed to be a large doorway at the end of the hall. A sign was on the shutter that read "Under Construction," the dot on the 'i' being a red nose. The walls were still decorated with paintings and other clown imagery of course, but about almost halfway down the hall a bump out in the wall on the left side raised slightly to hold a small trinket shop.

There wasn't anyone working at it, leaving the artifacts and jewellery open to being taken. Of course I wouldn't steal anything as that's against the law, but I bet some other people like that homeless girl would.

There was also a seating area next to the shop, two clown chairs and a table with a painting of an old man wearing a rainbow polka-dot suit plastered on the wall with precision... like some perfectionist helped out with the placement.

There was... also sadly an actual person standing near one of the chairs, but his back was turned to prevent me from getting hurt. It was obvious he liked yellow though. He had light yellow overalls and a puffy yellow cap with...bunny ears on the top. With his back facing towards us, we could see a brown crossbody bag with some paper sticking out of it.

???: "Ew..."

He held his hand on his hip while looking up.

Lauren remained quiet. It was like even she didn't want to talk to this dude. Professor had a nice smile on his face though.

John: "Hey bud..!"

He stepped forward a bit, Lauren only stepping back.

???: "Wha- Oh. Um.. hi John."

He turned around to look at Professor, a bit of a smile on his face. He did glance at me though, appearing confused.

Themis: "My name is Themis. I'm a Prosecutor."

The dude's neck was titled slightly, his hand still on his hip. He was biting his lip while looking at me and Professor. He paid no attention to Lauren.

???: "Uhh okay. I'm Ren Sherlock. Ultimate uh.. Mail Delivery Boy."

Themis: "That's an old job... I thought mail was available online now."

Ren: "The company I work at likes old fashion bull crap. And it's stupid because I have to bike everywhere.."

John: "Well the oldies are nice. I don't have any complaints."

Professor chuckled, silence shining through afterwards.

...

Ren: "Is that all, or would you like to pester me further? I'm looking at this gross art."

Lauren: "Oh, no. that'll be all..! we're just passing by and we'll be going now."

Lauren stepped back further, walking a bit more down the hallway and turning to another hall.

Ren scoffed with a smile, turning back to the painting to leave me and Professor to ourselves. I followed after her, Professor standing there to just talk to him. I couldn't overhear anything while I left, but I could tell there was windy whispers leaving Professors mouth.

After getting to the hallway she walked into, I was greeted with four metal doors on the sides of the hallway. Elevators. I'm guessing this was the area where guests got to other parts of the resort.

Lauren was already in one of the elevators. The door was mid closing though, so I swept my forearm in, the door opening back up.

She coughed with hesitance, pressing the close door as soon as I stepped into the elevator.

I chose to make conversation to irritate her.

Themis: "Eager to leave?"

Lauren: "Hm? Oh, no... Why would you ask that?"

Lauren: "I'm fine."

All she did was nod, the elevator falling silent after. The only thing that made noise were the speakers emitting the sounds of a calliope making music. Some smoke crept out of the speakers. Must be the real deal for the 'old' effect.

...

A ding rung out, the elevator shakily coming to a stop. 

When we both stepped out the professor wasn't around, but one of the elevators across from us had the light lit up on it to signal an elevator was coming.

There was no one around when I looked out slightly from the elevator. Thank god.

???: "Zzzzz..."

...What? Who is that...

I heard snoring when me and Lauren stepped out, but there was no one to the right, just a long hallway with doors on them.

But... to the left, there was a small vending machine station with an ice box in a cranny that extended out from the wall.

???: "Zzzzz..."

And unfortunately, a tall man was bent forward with his face pressed against a vending machines glass. He was sleeping. He was fitted in a blue dress shirt and green apron.

Lauren: "Oh! Well there's another person for you to meet. Let's go say hi."

Lauren stepped over, standing next to the sleeping dude.

Themis: "He looks pathetic. Can't we keep going? Talk to him when he isn't in a position that'll give me second-hand embarrassment?"

Lauren: "Mmm, nope..!"

She tapped on the sleeping guy's shoulder, a stupidly bright smile on her glossed lips.

...

???: "Zzzzz..."

...

I launched my foot at the back of his ankle, Lauren letting out a gasp while the man grunted.

???: "Agh! Whguhh.. what?!"

He held on to his beret, picking up a medical box that was behind him...which I hadn't noticed for some reason. Nothing is meant to get around my eyes.

When he fixed his posture, I noticed that he was almost the same height as the vending machine. I could estimate the machine to be six feet, so I deducted that he'd be around five foot eleven. Not intimidating though..especially with those abyssal eye-bags and brown rugged curly hair.

Themis: "Hello. Are you able to be a bit more serious now that you're awake?"

???: "Uh.. sorry. I'm tired. But..I guess.."

He coughed, rubbing eyes. He had heavy shoulders, and it was clear his grip on the medical box was loose.

???: "I've never... uh seen you before. I'm Rick Greysin. With an "e" and an "i"... it's meant to be Grayson with an "a" and an "o," but nurses made some mistake when I was born. It's Stupid. Speakin' o' nurses, I'm uh... the Ultimate Medic. Yeah."

Themis: "Y'know. I don't think I remember asking about your life. Nor your name or anything, but thanks..I guess."

Lauren: "Well it's great that you did! Right?"

Lauren had a gritted smile, her eyes glancing over at me a bit.

Rick: "Oh...Uhm..uh. Yeah..."

Rick scratched his head, looking back at the vending machine. 

Lauren: "So what are you getting?—"

We were cut off by an elevator ding, Professor walking out of it.

John: "Ohh, there you all are! I got held up talking to Detective Sherlock, hahaha."

Professor walked up to us, looking up at Rick when he arrived.

John: "Well hello Doctor Rick!"

Rick: "I'm a medic.. not a doctor. Sorry. But hi, Professor Durkin."

John: "Aw c'mon, boy. It's John! But, Themis, this lad here is quite a special case, eh?"

Yeah. I think I learned that really quickly.

Themis: "And how is he special?"

John: "Well for one, he comes from a long line of medical professionals! And..he also helped me with replacing my ol' ankle! Haha.."

Themis: "Impressive. But I'm also from a long legacy of people that do what I do."

It went quiet. 

I noticed that there was a green door at the back of the small cranny. There was a sign that said "janitor's closet." This could be my chance to talk to professor.

I stepped over to the closet, opening it to check how empty it was. Luckily it was and I stepped inside.

The closet was cracked and damp. It didn't fit the aesthetic of the resort, but with it not being something guests would be let inside, I see why they didn't waste any of the ugly paint and decals. Glad the employees can get a break of seeing this putrid wall design.

Themis: "Professor, could you come in here? I think there's something you'd like."

John:"Hmm? Ah, sure."

Lauren and Rick looked at each other in confusion, watching Professor approach me in the closet. When he stepped in with me and moved away from the door I closed it with a tough slam.

John: "Ooh. Well, what did you find, Themis?"

I gave him a grin, holding a fist behind my waist.

Themis: "Nothing. I just want you to tell me what the hell you're doing in this party. I know something's up, and I have the proof to back up my suspicions."

I approached him, my face mixing into a scolding solution.

John:"Haha, I was wondering where the actual Themis had gone! I'm glad he hadn't left. Always observant, eh? Well I'm not quite sure what you're talking about at the moment, so I'm sorry to crush that idea of yours.."

He chuckled... he wasn't taking me seriously! Stupid  old people. How could he laugh at me uncovering a secret of his?!

Themis: "But I found the bear! The teddy bear you placed for someone else to grab. You can't hide it from me, I already saw it."

If he was innocent I'd be able to see his face as genuine confusion, but I know he isn't. He has to be guilty. I wouldn't have been just making claims from a loose piece of evidence!

John: "Ah, sorry bucko but I've got no idea what you're talking about. I never saw any bear in the bathroom when I was in there, teddy or real, haha!"

...

Themis: "Kh.. Whatever. I'll find out exactly what you're up to, just you old man. You're free to go anyways..."

He didn't look offended after I called him old, and it only made me even more furious.

...

With Professor leaving, I leaned on the side of a rather large workbench for such a small closet.

The bench let out a creak, it shifting with a blue roll of paper falling off a stack of books.

Themis: "What..?"

I unrolled the paper, being met with blueprint drawings. However..they didn't make any sense. It was like they were purposely drawn horribly, but I think I could make out other rooms and hallways that me and Lauren didn't see so far on the tour.

There was a stairwell titled "stairway to Polka Dot Floor," and some other weird titled names. 

On the backside of the blueprints there were ventilation shaft diagrams. Some vents lead to nothing while others had chutes that could close and open. These don't seem that convenient for such a large building.

Whilst I tried to decipher the horrid blueprints, a cold finger touched the bridge between my neck and my shoulder...

...

???: "Themis? What's taking you so long."

My spine ran cold, and in a quick act of..protective strength, I swung my arm back while turning around...only for it to be caught.

???: "What are you doing..!"

...

It was Lauren. She had grabbed my forearm, her nails sinking into the fibres of my coat's sleeve.

Even though I was scared, I couldn't just tell her that. I didn't really know what other excuse to make though.

Themis: "That's my question! What the fuck are YOU doing? You don't sneak up on strangers, woman. And let go of me! I don't...like being touched."

...

I wiped my arm off Lauren's hand, not caring at how her face filled with surprise from my force.

Lauren: "Oh..! I'm-i'm sorry, Themis. I was not aware that you were uncomfortable with that. I'm very sorry for my attempts previously."

She held her hands near her heart, looking ashamed down at the cracked concrete flooring.

Themis: "..."

Themis: "I'm just investigating... I'm guessing you want me to hurry up?"

Lauren: "Uhm.. Sorry, yeah. You can stay in here if you want though.."

She looked very guilty. But there isn't a reason to care, she did it herself.

Themis: "I don't really want to be in here anymore. Let's go."

We both stepped out of the janitors closet, only that tired doctor standing outside.

Rick: "If you're uhhh.. looking for.. uh..John...he uh.. ..uh...I don't remember..."

He scratched his hair, punching in numbers at the machine. 

Me and Lauren stared at him, I with irked eyes and Lauren with..whatever she's feeling, I don't really care about her. I think..

Lauren: "He went to go downstairs... He said he'd send up Georgia when dinner was ready."

I'm glad she shut up afterwards, hopefully she'll keep quiet when we keep walking.

We started to walk down the hall that was to the right of the elevator we exited, several numbered doors on the walls. Most likely our rooms but I don't really care to look in mine, they aren't important.

...

While we were walking however, a door in the hallway swung open, almost hitting me in the face.

Themis: "Jesus!"

I know I could have dodged it even earlier had Lauren not ruined my entire day. Definitely. I would've been able to tell it was going to happen before the handle even moved.

Lauren: "Eek! Ah- are-are you alright?"

I ignored her, instead focusing on a dainty girl that poked her head out from the open door.

???: "Oh..! Je suis vraiment désolé!"

She stepped to the side, holding the side of her cheek with her hand.

Themis: "What..?"

I'm not that good on my French..

???:"Tu parles anglais?"

I don't really care about learning it though, it's not exactly important to being successful.

Themis: "I don't understand you, kid. Try talking like a human please."

...

???: "Um. Like.. Sorry.. I am not good with like, english."

The girl had a more lighter French accent when she spoke in English.

Themis: "I don't care..? Just tell me your name and ultimate please."

...

...

???: "Uhm.. Like.."

...

She let out a frown, her sweet and innocent posture falling down. Her purse slouched down from her shoulder.

???: "My name is like, Kenzie Strütle. I'm the Ultimate Coffee Enthusiast."

Strange. She must have realized to not be a child around me. At least I didn't have to make it more obvious to her.

Lauren: "I'm sorry Kenzie.."

Kenzie looked at Lauren with her frown. And then back at me, intimidated of course.

Kenzie: "It's like.. okay, Lauren! Do you..like want like..a hug..?"

Kenzie walked up to Lauren, hugging her with a bright smile.

???: "Why are you standing at my door still Kenzie."

A door spoke from behind the open door, the top of a hat poking up from the top of the door. The door itself was pretty tall, so whoever was behind it must be..gigantic.

Kenzie: "Oh I'm like.. talking to Lauren and.. someone else."

???: "Oh. Okay then."

His voice sounded like charcoal.

Kenzie: "You should come out here!! Hehee."

The man's broken voice let out a sigh, the door closing to reveal a 6'4 giant behind it. He wore a green dress shirt with black gloves. The most noticeable thing was his blood stained apron..

Themis: "*cough* Uh.. hello. Sir."

Even if he was intimidating, I couldn't let him win the game he was trying to play with my head. The skin around my neck was stretched while I titled my head to look up at him..

???: "Hello Themis Galanis. I know who you are. The Ultimate Prosecutor? Yes...mhmh.."

...! This fucking creep..

Themis: "...Yes. How do you know who I am? Not that I care.. just curious."

Lauren: "..."

???: "I enjoy doing my research..it's wonderful. Especially when one doesn't expect me to know them. Just quite like this now."

Themis: "Mind telling me your name then? It certainly isn't just weirdo, is it?"

Kenzie: "Heyyy! That's like, kinda mean!!"

She pouted, but the tall man didn't even twitch his eye. Only one of his eyes were visible..the other one was under an eye patch, and he wore a big black scarf around his neck and lower face that hid anything below the top of his nose.

???: "I'm Orpheus Havilah. I'm the Ultimate Plastic Surgeon. The amount of tools there comes with it is fascinating."

With the way he's hiding his face, I'd have to guess he needs some of his own work done to himself.

Orpheus: "I do not fully mean to be scary. My deepest..deep deeply apologetic apologies if I did so."

Themis: "...Uh. Yeah no you aren't scary. You can't scare me."

...

Orpheus: "Mm. Well that's a first. No one else has ever shown no fear for me.."

The room went quiet, Orpheus then looked down at Kenzie, releasing a sigh to look back at me.

Orpheus: "Second.. to show no fear.."

He looked to the side, the black skin near the area of his face that was covered by the black covering forming a light red hue.

Kenzie: "Hehee. We were like, just about to go and see if dinner was here yet! But Orphy got caught up and wanted to like.. check out his room!"

Themis: "I don't care..?"

Kenzie: "*pout*"

Orpheus: "Don't call me that.. but let's go anyways."

Kenzie: "Okay!! We can go get some cappuccino's if it isn't here though."

Kenzie started walking to the elevators.

Orpheus: "I don't like coffee."

He walked down with her, bumping into my side with what felt like force.

Themis: "God. Some people.."

Lauren: "Um. Y-Yeah.."

She still frowned. I don't care what her deal is though.

We continued to walk down the hallway, but Lauren was being slow. She was wasting my time.

There was another door open in the hallway, a tiny marble statue holding it open.

At least it wasn't popping open to hit me in the face..

Peering my head into the room, I saw a dark skinned ginger boy aligning some papers on a clown designed desk. His appearance was...

???: "Guten tag! Er- I mean.. good afternoon, hehe. Um how is your afternoon? Which..I just said, eh-heh.."

He looked embarrassed, gripping the handle on his brown suitcase while he walked up to me at the entrance of his room.

Themis: "It was fine until I came to this field trip."

This dude is the guy that was wearing those orange ears and tail.. weirdo. They matched exactly his hair color.

???: "I'm Arthur Durchdenwald! And i'm originally from Germany but I'm here in Canada so I can attend Hopes Peak, and—"

He peered his head to the side, noticing the sulking girl beside me.

Arthur: "Oh em gee! Lauren! How are you??"

His eyes lit up like the sun. If this was some anime, sparkles probably would've shined out of them. Luckily it isn't. Only pretty characters exist in anime, so he's safe from being in one.

Lauren: "Um.. not that good.."

She stepped in front of me, standing in the face of the ginger furry thing.. he was shorter than her even. That stupid fucking bowler hat and his annoying blue glasses. They don't even go with his disgustingly hazel eyes.

Arthur: "Oh.. well what's wrong? I bet I can help!"

Lauren: "Um.. I made a mistake."

Arthur frowned, extending his hand to hold Lauren's, which she accepted.

Arthur: "Well I bet whatever or who you made a mistake to forgives you. We all make mistakes! They're normal, Lauren. Just try to bury the mistake by doing good things that counter it! Hehe."

He shook hands with her.

That sounded like terrible advice. If you make a mistake you should just ignore it, that way it no longer becomes a mistake and is then just lost in history. Anyone who brings it up is a liar. No need to fix something that never happened.

Lauren: "...Thanks Arthur..!"

...

She went back to the tip of her heels, her posture glowing with the scent of earthy undertones coming off the back of her neck. How did he.. change her mood so quick.

Lauren: "Anyways, what are you doing in your room? That bellhop said we didn't exactly need these. Right..?"

Lauren looked back to me as if for confirmation, but I made sure not to give her what she wanted. I kept my head still.

Arthur: "Yeah I know, but I just wanted to make sure if this place would be good! I was thinking of holding a concert here for my Canadian world tour next year. I heard there's a big theatre and stage!"

Mm. First time he brought that up. Guess he was just scared of talking to me about it.

Lauren: "Oh that's perfect! I would love to watch you play here."

Themis: "Play? What are you some artist?"

Arthur: "Mhm! I'm the Ultimate Musician! I play a large variety, but I typically enjoy the piano. The one I'm best at!"

Themis: "I didn't really ask.. It just sounded weird that's why I asked."

He seemed to be at a loss for words, his finger holding his chin curiously.

Lauren: "Well I think we should go check out the theatre you talked about, right?"

Arthur: "Uh.. Mhm! Yeah! It was good talking to you, uhh..."

Themis: "My name is Themis."

Lauren: "Oh! I forgot all about introducing you! I'm sorry, Themis."

Themis: "Okay..? Whatever."

I continued walking down the hall, ending up at the end of it. There were two other hallways that extended to the left and right, candles on the wall, and two cameras at the end of the hall's respectively.

There was a large red double door about halfway down the hall on both hallways, a sign with the word "THEATRE" on it at the top of both.

Lauren started walking down the left door, so I chose to walk down to the right door. 

Without the earthy scents in my nose I was able to breathe in the resorts air. Which smelled like jelly-beans... I would much rather the oaky scent than this sugary hell.

When I got to the door I opened it to be met with a red headed girl charging right at me, but she quickly came to a halt with a panicked but also...disgusted shriek.

???: "Eugh!! Watch where you're going, male!"

Weird wording. But her attire was weirder. She had a red plaid skirt and a navy blazer. I think she wore a sash with photos of herself on it too... wrongfully self entitled people disgust me. At least I do know I'm better than everyone by facts and not bias.

Themis: "You're one to talk you were running at me like a bull!"

???: "Um? Excuse me? You can't talk to me like that! I'm a girl!"

Themis: "I can talk to people however I please."

I made sure to try and sharpen my voice. Maybe she'd learn her lesson.

???: "First of all, you're wrong. And second of all, who even are you to be talking to me like this?!"

She waved her hand at me in a shooing motion. All she did was make me ball up my fists. If I pushed my fingers into my palms any harder I would have created black holes.

Themis: "I'm Themis. And I'm a prosecutor, I have the right to talk to people in whichever manner I please."

???: "That's your second time ending your sentence with that. Being a lawyer has nothing to do with your social life!"

...

Themis: "Well why don't you out do me? What are you so known and grand for to think you have such a status."

???: "Eww. My name is Freya Murray, and I'm the best bagpiper in the entirety of scottland!"

I guess that explains the instrument she wore on her side.. and that skirt isn't actually a skirt and just a kilt.

Freya: "I'm making the world proud and I'm not gonna let some measly dick-face get in my way, so mark my words!"

Themis: "Get the fuck away from me before I see you in court for attempted battery. If you're lucky you'll just get assault."

She launched her hand at me like a chop while she lurched forward, which I quickly grabbed and turned the hand around her back.

Freya: "O-OW! You.. you hurt me! I can't believe you'd hurt a girl! *sniffle*"

She quickly welled into tears.. after giving all that attempted intimidation. Weak.

Freya: You... you stupid men! You damn bampot!!"

She held her hand while she ran away down the hall. Weak.

...

I decided to just continue walking into the theatre. 

There seemed to be a room that took up space in the entrance of the theatre. Some weird square room. Just sounds like poor construction but I doubt this place gets many visitors. 

There was a stage at the end of the theatre. Like the ones in musicals and plays. Or music performances like whatever that furry does...

There weren't many seats, at least half of your average cinema. I did notice a large figure sitting in the front row though. Along with Lauren's obnoxious headwear next to them.

I walked down the aisle and stood in front of the two, staring at the unknown person.

They both stopped talking, the giant person crossing their arms while Lauren made some fake pleased face. That mammoth tilted their face to look at me since they were sitting, but I quickly noticed a massive scar along their face. Their dead blonde hair looked like it was cut with garden shears too. Why does almost everyone here look so unpresentable?!

???: "Hello. Is there something wrong..?"

They had a rugged voice. I'd rather more of these people be like that journal kid and just not talk.

Themis: "Y-..."

While I was going to continue my sentence I saw Lauren's shoe twitch, which made me quiet down. Not that I was scared...I just didn't want her to waste her time. Of course I don't care about her time, it's just unneeded.

Themis: "Yeah not really.."

I felt like I was being watched by a hawk by Lauren, a fake gun being held to my head.

Themis: "Mind telling me your name? Mine is.. Themis."

???: "Mm. My name is Arcelia Brightbeard.. I'm a mermaid slayer."

Alright, Archie.. still don't really know what gender they are though.. they have a lot of countering features.

Lauren: "Arcelia is the Ultimate Captian. It's so cool!!"

Arcelia: "They said that I could not use the term 'Ultimate Mermaid Slayer', so they've put this label on me. But I know the truth."

Themis: "Uh.. that, that's great. Awesome."

As I was finished talking, I saw a girl exiting the square room that was near the entrance of the theater. It was that homeless girl with the brother or something. I guess Lauren didn't notice her, but she looked anxious.

Lauren: "Ooh, can you tell Themis one of your pirate stories? I bet he'd love to hear one!"

Lauren clapped her hands a little, her perky smile radiating with joy. My face was still cold though.

Arcelia: "Hm. I do not have such time to talk about such tales.. but maybe another time when I'm available."

They grumbled a bit, looking at the theatre's red carpet with displeasure.

Arcelia: "This building does not make sense. I haven't seen anything like it on sea.."

Probably because buildings don't float like boats.. but that's just a theory.

Lauren: "It's a very unique concept for a hotel! Clowns can be—"

Themis: "—It's a resort."

Lauren: "Uh yeah.. But yeah umm clowns can be a bit intimidating, but I like this place so far! Because I'm with all of my class!"

She held her hands at her waist, her smile still beaming.

Lauren: "Well this is the only other area we can really look around at..and still no sign of Skye's brother. I hope he didn't get lost..!"

Themis: "I saw her leaving that room behind you.. neither of you looked."

Arcelia: "If you are talking about the octopus, he went backstage... even after my attempts to defuse his energy."

After it went quiet, tiny giggles fled from backstage, a little boy walking on the stage behind us.

???: "Heheh. Little mortals are gossiping about me!"

The boy had some goggles covering his face. There were little tubes of neon liquid flowing through the sides of his frames.

???: "A new player enters! HAHAH!!"

He held his hands up with his fingers bent like some mad scientist. He also had the outfit like one with that white and purple lab coat..

Lauren: "Hi Octavius! How are you?"

He crossed his arms before hoping down from the stage, approaching the three of us.

???: "I am Professor Profusely! And I am the Ultimate Mad Scientist! WAHAHA!! Of course!"

...

Arcelia: "If only.."

Lauren: "Ah.. well Themis, this is Octavius Webber. He's the ultimate Chemist.. not Professor Profusely."

Octavius: "..."

Octavius pouted his lip, adjusting his goggles to rest on his hat. It was like a witches hat but with a flask on the top..

Octavius: "Lies! But I can't convince the world of my genius of course."

He was very short, which made him have to look up at us. When I observed his face closer I recognized that he didn't quite look like an adult.

Themis: "Are you sure you're even allowed to be here? You look too young to be in Hopes Peak."

Octavius: "Well that's because I'm just so smart! Hehe."

I feel like maybe there should also be a maturity test to get accepted. 

Lauren: "Maybe we should get you back to Skye.. she's been very worried about you! It's not safe to be alone in this large hotel."

Octavius: "Umm who?"

Lauren: "Octavius.."

Seems to be stupid for a nerd...

Arcelia: "Maybe it would be superior to head off to the lobby. I can only assume our feast will arrive soon.."

They tried getting up from the theatre chair, not moving at all.

Arcelia: "These chairs are not made for larger people.."

They're not even fat. They're just tall and muscular.

They extended their hand out to me. I felt like I had to otherwise Lauren would hurt me again.. so I grabbed their hand and tried helping them up.

Themis: "Je..sus..!"

Their hand was rough and cracked. It felt like I was holding hands with a cheese grater. I went through the pain though, somehow pulling them up.

Themis: "Your hand is like a knife, man..."

Arcelia: "Man? But I'm a girl.."

Now that she was standing tall and staring down at me, I felt like I was gonna get crushed. She looks like a boy though..the short hair and the muscular arms poking through her red pirate coat.

Themis: "Oh... Sorry then. Ma'am."

Octavius: "I can't blame him for thinking that! Heheh."

The little dude chuckled, covering his mouth with his black gloves.

Lauren: "That's enough..! Let's just go and—"

???: "Hello. The professor made me come and get anyone who wasn't at the cafeteria because our food got here. It's not your fault for being slow though.. so don't worry."

It was Georgia. I think that was her name. That short weird girl.. which there are many, but the purple one.

Lauren: "Oh, we were just going down! We can all go together."

Arcelia: "Mm. Then let's set sail."

I sighed, the four of us following Georgia back down the hallway. We chose to take a different elevator than the one I got on, which had more buttons on it. The lights behind them were burnt out. I'm guessing those floors aren't accessible..which isn't that good for business. 

◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥

...

Inside a dimmed pink cushioned room, a green-haired woman was strapped on the wall. Images of cats were on the walls, while the light bulbs on the ceiling were tinted pink.

Ḧ̸̛̼͔̄͛́͂̒͝e̷̛͔̹̳͑͑ř̵͕͈̍͆̇: "Mhmhm.. good morning dear."

A woman of aged fine wine stood in front of the girl, tapping those same nails against her skin.

???: "Hello! Good morning. May I please leave and meet my friends?"

Ḧ̸̛̼͔̄͛́͂̒͝e̷̛͔̹̳͑͑ř̵͕͈̍͆̇: "Let me think about that. No..."

The girl on the wall frowned but didn't try and get free.

Ḧ̸̛̼͔̄͛́͂̒͝e̷̛͔̹̳͑͑ř̵͕͈̍͆̇: "This is our guest list! Why don't you read and memorize this so you can remember your future friend's names? I bet they'll respect that."

She opened up a logbook, handing it over to the girl on the wall.

???: "Okay! Thank you very much."

She lit up with stars, reading the logbook.

???: "Now may I go meet my friends?"

Ḧ̸̛̼͔̄͛́͂̒͝e̷̛͔̹̳͑͑ř̵͕͈̍͆̇: "Oh.. no. You'll be let go later. *giggle*."

???: "But it's very dark in here... and scary. I would like to go out!"

Ḧ̸̛̼͔̄͛́͂̒͝e̷̛͔̹̳͑͑ř̵͕͈̍͆̇: "Pink is your favourite colour is it not? Mhm.."

???: "Yeah... Pink is my favourite colour.."

The woman waved off while she left the pink room, closing the door slowly. The lights in the room quietly dimmed, leaving the girl alone with only the logbook to look at.

◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥◤◢◣◥

...

The lighting in the resort seemed to have dimmed down, the bulb coverings creating intricate flower designs on the walls. Georgia led us down to the cafeteria, everyone else standing around the table with impatient faces. I doubt we took that long.

Lauren: "Oh.. Wow.."

She sounded breathless from sweet surprise, while the little ginger kid made a sound of awe.

The table though looked like perfection, gourmet dishes littered all around the lace tablespread. It reached all the way to the floor, covering the empty space under it. Meals were stacked on serving trays to the ceiling, contradicting aromas and scents somehow mixed to create a paradise to breathe in. The way the dim lights bounced off the food and made their shadows only made them even more tempting.

I couldn't try to one-up this presentation. This was the first time I saw something so meticulously prepared and made... And it made me mad. I kept having to swallow back the saliva that swelled into my mouth, holding back my urge to jump on the table and devour each piece of succulence.

...

It wasn't the fast food we were promised...

That eye-bagged doctor stammered to speak, so I spoke quicker.

Themis: "You said fancy restaurant, not.. Michelin star."

I moved my hand to present the buffet on the table.

Professor let out a happy exhale, leaning on his cane while making little glances at everyone.

John: "Mm, well. I may have been a bit untruthful, b-"

Orpheus: "So you lied, hm?"

John: "But only because.. I wanted to surprise you all. Show you a meal greater than the amazement you had been expecting. I hope it worked out."

Lauren: "Well it certainly did, John."

Georgia: "Mhm!"

Kenzie: "It looks amazing!!!"

Where are all my compliments?? I'm a prosecutor.. He's just an old man. 

John: "No need to thank me you all... Just take a look around and find a seat you like, *inhale* and then we may commence!"

And with that, we started moving. Some people sat down quickly, while others circled the tabled multiple times. I ended up sitting next to a meal I knew I liked. It even looked rightfully proportioned. I was at the foot of the table, professor sitting at the other foot. It was awkward.

I slid the plate of food closer to me, but I was interrupted from eating by people sitting down.

The nerd was sitting next to me at my left, and that obnoxious model was sitting to my right, STILL on his phone. I would have snapped it in half but Lauren sat right next to Octavius near me...

Soon everyone took their seats, but I don't think he noticed. He was busy opening a bottle of champagne.

I was fine waiting. Until the nerd turned to face me.

Octavius: "So-soo-so what do you do as a prosecutor? Besides point and shout."

Themis: "You look smart enough to know that already.."

He tapped his fork on his plate that consisted of buttered macaroni and mashed potatoes. It was definitely more basic than my plate. But it also has bigger portions.

Octavius: "Oh um yeah, I like dinos-din-dinosaurs a lot that I forget about other things. If I wasn't a chemist I'd like to be umm um-a pale-p-palaeontologist. Dinosaurs are-are really old and cool. Just like John."

He sounds too interested and stutter-y. He tapped his leg on the wood planks with rhythm. I don't know why though.. it was annoying and unnecessary.

Themis: "Alright.."

I didn't ask for the information. Nor was it necessary. 

Lauren: "Your food looks good, Octavius. What about you Levi? And Themis of course."

Leviathan: "Oh um..! I'm not really that hungry, I um.. had a filling breakfast."

It sounded like he was trying to find his words on the spot. I don't really buy it.

Themis: "I'll eat when we're told to. But it's fine."

Lauren: "Fair. I think we'll start soon after John is finished passing down the champagne."

Octavius: "What?"

Professor was walking down offering everyone a glass full, reaching us at the end. He looked like he was holding something behind his back too though...

Lauren accepted his offer when he asked her.

John: "And of course, for you Octavius..."

Professor took his hand out from behind his back, holding a bottle of cranberry juice.

John: "Littlest dude in the building gets the hardest drink, eh? *chuckle*"

Octavius looked like he tried laughing but didn't know how to actually..laugh. I didn't really find it funny either. It doesn't make sense because cranberry isn't an alcoholic beverage.

Professor poured some of the cranberry juice into Octavius' glass. He looked a bit disappointed though.

John: "And for you, Themis?"

Themis: "I'll just have water. Thanks."

John: "You sure? I won't be mad for any of you drinking...well besides Octavius, but it won't go against our drinking on school grounds policy if you're worr—"

Themis. "I want water. Thank you."

...

Lauren took her hands off her utensils to look at the both of us. Stupid old dude was making a scene for me not wanting to drink...

John: "Alright.. I don't have any with me, so you'll have to get it yourself..that's uh why I suggested.. sorry, it's all fine bud."

He left, continuing to offer the champagne to the other side of the table. That model rejected him as well. When he was done offering it that doctor raised his hand and was given the rest of the bottle of champagne.

After I stood up and walked behind the food display and counters to get behind and into the "kitchen." It was just an oval of counters and kitchen appliances on the middle of the wall that faced the entrance of the cafeteria.

I stepped closer to the fridge, opening it to be greeted with a stockpile of intricate vegetables and other items to create meals. I noticed soda and energy drinks in a bottom drawer which didn't exactly fit, but a jug of water was on the side of the fridge door.

I closed the fridge after taking my water, but I noticed a lower cabinet that was next to the fridge was open. There was a label taped on a space in the cabinet that read "HCN" but without anything actually there next to the label. 

I don't really know what that means but I think it's some chemistry thing. Thankfully I'm sitting next to the biggest nerd in the building.

Kenzie: "Like, hey, don't kick me..!"

Arthur: "What? No, I would never kick anyone.. It wasn't me."

The two looked at the person sitting in front of Kenzie.

Ren: "Um..?"

Kenzie: "I felt your foot brush mine under the table. I think."

Ren: "Why is everyone blaming me for their schizophrenic behaviour."

I sat down in my seat again. Weird people...

John: "Well I think we may now begin. I'd like to give a toast and say thank you, again, for such a great start to this school year. I know all of us couldn't make it, but I couldn't have asked for a better class. It feels like we're family already.. and I can't wait for what the rest of night and year has in store for us."

He raised his glass, some mild claps and smiles coming from others.

My water splashed into my champagne glass, filling up rather quickly. I didn't need one of these glasses why couldn't I just get a normal glass? This is so unnecessary there was never even a need to bring champagne or alcohol this all just doesn't-

[ *Bzzz* ]

...

[ *Ding!* ]

That fucking phone.

It snapped me out of my anger, but Its like it watered a new seed inside me. I have to do something to get my mind away from that blonde stick.

I tapped my unused fork on the chemist's plate, stealing his attention.

Themis: "I'll tell you what I do if you answer a science question of mine. Is that a fair deal?"

Octavius: "Ouhg! mnmohkay!"

He talked with his fork in his mouth. It was made of rubber unlike the silverware everyone else was given.

I think Lauren looked over at us with a smile. I'm guessing she thought I was trying to have a normal conversation with him. But all I wanted was answers.

Themis: "You know what "HCN" means. I want you to tell me what it is."

I didn't make it sound like a question because I already knew he knew what it meant.

His foot started to tap again.

Octavius: "Oh well um that stands for Hydrogen Cyanide. Or hydrocyanic acid. O-or-or prussic acid. it's a liquid orrr a gas. But it's also very toxic, so.."

What? I leaned in a little to whisper to him. I knew Lauren would have probably freaked out if she heard this.

Themis: "Then why was it in a kitchen? I saw a label for it in a cabinet."

His face twisted with idiocy and confusion. He also ended up whispering.

Octavius: "Well... I-muh, uh don't know, sounds...dangerous though."

...

I rested back on the arch of my chair, looking at the meal I had yet to eat. It looked fine. It was nicely plated and presented fish. 

There seemed to be something poking out from under the plate though. It looked like paper.

And it was. I lifted my plate slightly, careful to not tip my food over, taking out the paper. Fancy writing filled the paper from top to bottom, a small drawing at the bottom. It read...

[ BLACK BASS AND BACON DASHI ~ THEMIS GALANIS ]

[ A dish of nicely grilled black bass fillet poached in a dominate bacon dashi, overwhelming the seafood taste with an excellent ginger and savoury bacon taste with its flavours, brutally demolishing the kind and loving fish with its wrath of  jealous essence. ]

The drawing had a diagram of the dinner table, my name written in the exact seat I was sitting in. I knew it wasn't the professor's seat because his name was also written, appearing across from me to the other foot of the table. Whoever prepared this dinner table placed this meal here so I would sit specifically here...

But why?

Lauren: "You should eat you two. Your food might be cold by now.."

Lauren looked at both me and Levi.

Leviathan: "Oh uh.. okay. Yeah.."

I started eating with annoyance, but I noticed how slow it took for Leviathan to even pick up his fork. It was only a salad, but he still held the fork with hesitance as it went into his mouth.

Leviathan: "Yum..."

I just went on eating, but Octavius was nudging the napkin that my glass rested on.

Themis: "What are you doing?"

I held the napkin down so it wouldn't keep getting closer to him.

Octavius: "I don't like cranberry juice.. but I can't drink. So I was wondering if I could have your water instead."

He kept trying to pull the napkin closer.

Themis: "Then just ask that. Sure.. I guess. I'm not thirsty, I just wanted to be sober."

I let go of the napkin, letting him take the glass. He gulped it down, I guess he's been thirsty since we got here. I didn't see any water fountains during my tour either.

[ *Cough* ]

...

I continued to eat in silence, but there seemed to be commotion coming from the other side of the table.

Arthur: "You alright, John?"

[ *Cough* ]

[ *Weeze* ]

Ren: "John?!"

People started getting up from their chair, approaching the foot of the table. Notably, Ren was holding John's hand as he started standing up, going from coughing to wheezing for air.

Georgia: "What's going on?"

Kenzie: "Is he okay?"

People started to panic as John waved his hand a bit, knocking over several dishes that were on the table. People hitting their knees on the table when they stood up caused the table to shake, making even more of a disaster. Especially when Arcelia stood. Plates of food hit the ground while that cranberry juice tipped over, staining the tablecloth red like blood.

[ *CRASH* ]

Ren: "John are you..? Help him!"

I stood up, Octavius standing close by to me while Lauren ran up to the other end of the table. That damn model was typing even quicker on his phone with a panicked face. He better have been texting for help.

John knocked over a food display, and a knife that was at the top came falling down.

Ren: "EAH!"

It just barely dodged his baby-face.

Lauren: "What's going on?! Is he okay."

Ren: "Does it look like he's okay?! Eh..u..RICK HELP!"

Rick: "Mmnuh.."

He stood up, sloppily placing the champagne bottle on the table. It ended up tipping over though, with not a single drop spilling out... that prick drank it out.

Ren: "WHY ARE YOU JUST STANDING THERE?! HELP!"

Rick: "It uh- whahmhh.."

He stumbled around, the tall surgeon putting a hand on his shoulder to push him closer to John.

Viola: "The fuck did you drink man?"

Orpheus: "Only the rest of the glass.. I assume four glasses with that cup."

Viola: "Jesus Christ."

Rick was just staring with confused and worried eyes. I didn't know how to comprehend this. That nerd was breathing too much.

[ *Weeze* ]

Ren: "HURRY UP. STOP STANDING LIKE A PUSSY!"

Ren shuffled over, bumping into Professors chair. He raised his fist, but the area he punched was low. He hit the drunk right near his pelvis, providing an uproar of gasps from several people around the cafeteria. 

Viola: "WHAT THE FUCK?!"

John fell on the ground, still wheezing.

Ren: "JH.."

Octavius: "Wh-whah-what's happening?? I.."

Themis: "Get away from me kid!"

The homeless girl came up to us with worry.

Skye: "Octavius don't worry it's gonna be okay, okay?"

Octavius: "Ugh pfft I don't need to listen to you..! It.. yeah."

Octavius backed up, tearing up and sprinting out of the cafeteria. 

Skye: "Shit.."

I noticed that furry pianist trying to back away from the situation. Like a coward.

Themis: "Where are you going?!"

Freya: "Ohmygodohmygodohmygod..."

Kenzie: "Waaa..!"

Arcelia: "We should not huddle around him! Get back!"

It was hard to focus on him when everyone else was making commotion.

Arthur: "I. I'm calling for help! The phone in the lobby."

He took off into the lobby, the coffee girl following after him.

I couldn't let it all overwhelm me. But everyone's panicking made my body feel numb. I stepped forward to get to John though, as Rick was on the ground in pain after getting hit.

John was on the ground with his back facing everyone, Ren sat down holding onto him. He sounded like he was crying.

Lauren: "John come on..! He's not okay! Ren why did you have to hurt Rick?!"

Ren: "Excuse me? He was standing around with a cloud for a brain because he's AN ALCOHOLIC JUST LIKE HIS DADDY."

He kept screaming with tears, taking his hands off John and moving his arms frantically. His hands started to fly towards Lauren, but that surgeon apprehended him.

Ren: "STOP! IS HE EVEN OKAY HE STOPPED...WHEEZING WHY ISN'T ANYONE HELPING HIM?! WHAT THE FFF-FUCK IS WRONG WITH YOU ALL?!!"

His screams silenced the room, but some people's anxious weeps slipped through.

[ *Smack* ]

Lauren: "SHUT UP! Oh my god. WE'RE NOT HELPING BECAUSE WE DON'T KNOW HOW, OKAY?! WE'RE SCARED! STOP YELLING AT US. WE AREN'T QUALIFIED!!"

Lauren slapped Ren on his cheek. She screamed so loud that her headpiece fell off. And she didn't even care to pick it up.

...

It was like everything stopped. Some sniffles and that was it. Everyone looked at Lauren like she was a monster.. like they had never seen her do something like this. I didn't expect her to yell, which made me end up intimidated...

She glanced around the room, her soul looking shattered after seeing the way everyone reacted to her. It's like she didn't want to be seen or looked at like this...

She walked off, leaving to the lobby in silence. She left her headpiece.

Georgia: "I...I. I wonder..what's taking those two calling so long..uhm.."

She walked to the lobby as well.

...

...

Without all the clatter and noise, I was able to take in the scenery more. 

The entire table looked disheveled, broken glass and plates scattered across the floor, food sauces and liquids splattered on the what used to be white table cloth. The chairs tipped over only added on to the crime scene in front of me.

I may not have known the professor that well, but  from the way everyone one has reacted, they sure did... so I knew I'd have to be in charge of figuring out what the hell happened.

I don't care about the other people, it's just better for the investigator to not have any bias to a victim...

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[ NOW AIRING: THE INVESTIGATION ]

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Themis: "Step away from the victim, please."

Viola: "Excuse me? Why are you telling me what to do?? And his name is John."

Themis: "I'm trying to treat this formally. So please, get out of the way, darling."

That wording seemed to work on her, because she immediately stepped aside. I didn't like it though...

I kneeled down and tried to turn the body over.

...

Unsuccessfully. That tucked in dress shirt was also probably holding in his stomach too.

Themis: "Doctor, could you... er.. never mind."

The doctor was still on the ground, his hands around where Ren had hit him.

There was no one around to help. These people are so useless the only person I could think of getting help from were the doctor or that nerd. And he ran off..

A pair of baggy khaki's stepped in front of me. I looked up, remembering that quiet kids face.

Themis: "Oh.. aren't you a journalist? Can you help any?"

They had a frustrated look. Some people really like to hold grudges.

 After I stood back up, he ripped out a page from his notepad.

It was a diagram of the dinner table with everyone's names written next to certain areas.

Themis: "How does this help me? I need an investigative partner, not a drawer, okay??"

He grumbled at me, pointing at the other end of the table where John was sitting. He circled his finger around two names. Ren and Arthur. They had sat next to John during dinner.

Themis: "Are you saying that they might know something?"

He took his notepad back and writ on it quickly.

Apollo: "Yes. You should try seeing what they know. Ren is hard to talk to though, so I would like to go with you. I know how to talk to him."

Themis:  "Okay... I was going to do that already."

...

Themis: "Arthur is the red head.. right."

Apollo looked around, pointing at the Scottish girl and Skye. 

Themis: "The... the boy one. Idiot."

Apollo pointed at the arch to exit the cafeteria.

Themis: "Then we'll go there next. And that...yellow guy. Isss.. there."

I started walking to where the dude in the yellow overalls was curled up in. He was resting on the wall like a coward. And so were that doctor and the Scottish one, but he just looked less strong.

Themis: "Hello. I already know you but again, I am Themis Galanis. Since I am a prosecutor I'd like to ask you some questions to try and figure out what happened to John."

Ren: "... Leave me the hell alone. I'm not answering shit."

Themis: "Good. At least my suspect list is already starting."

His head slightly turned to me with hesitation.

My partner crouched down, whispering to him awfully well. I couldn't hear their conversation.

Arthur: "Stop following me Georgia, I don't care what excuse you have...!"

Georgia: "You weren't calling the cops! I recognized the voice of who you were calling and it was NOT the police."

Freya: "What?"

The two came walking back in the cafeteria, turning heads immediately with their voices.

Arthur: "I pressed the right numbers! It's not my fault. They said they would call the police, okay!"

Georgia: "You should have just called them instead of talking to someone using our situation to collect information. You can't just trust some journalists."

Arthur: "I WAS! But I don't know, okay?! The police are on their way. They have to be. Those people wouldn't just lie to us to make us feel better!"

Georgia: "Why are you yelling at me, Arthur..?"

Leviathan: "Yeah, why are you yelling at her??"

He seemed to be at a loss of words.

Themis: "I can't focus when you're all yelling. So can you please shut up.."

Georgia walked around to Mr. Model Boy, Arthur starting to move away.

Themis: "Quit moving. I'd like to talk to you."

He turned around to look at me, displaying a great face of pout. It was pitiful.

Arthur: "Okay.. sorry. I'm really anxious right now."

He walked towards me, carrying his briefcase like it was a baby.

Arthur: "You're the.. lawyer, right? What did you want to ask me about."

Themis: "I'm a prosecutor. I said it the first time. Without any other law enforcement here, I will be taking charge of the investigation for... The professor. I know you were sitting next to the professor when he died, so is there anything you can tell me about moments before it ensued?"

He was quiet for a bit while he collected his thoughts. Or he just didn't want to say.

Arthur: "I didn't really see anything wrong. It was just...until..y'know..*sniffle*, sorry."

This is why typically you interrogate witnesses after. They're always too shaken up.

Themis: "What was he eating? We can only assume he was poisoned while eating. I only want what you're certain of. No maybes."

Arthur: "He....um... He had soup. But it didn't look weird. I didn't pay much attention though, so I could be wrong."

I turned to the table, noticing Professor's soup bowl tipped over on the table. It hadn't fully spilled out luckily.

Arthur stayed back while I stepped closer to the table. I picked up the bowl, swirling the bowl around to get a sense of the consistency. It was soupy like he said, so I put my nose near the bowl.

Themis: "Mushroom soup."

A weird recipe for one though. They must put some almond in the broth. 

...

Apollo stood back up, the other dude standing up with him. I guess I should be able to go talk to him now.

Ren: "Okay.. what do you want? Sir."

He sounded aggravated.

Themis: "I would like to ask about John and what he was doing before he died."

Ren: "Didn't everyone see what happened to him? Unless you were some idiot and sat opposite of him and all that food in the middle."

Themis: "That's exactly where I sat, which is why I am asking."

Ren: "Uh- well.."

...

Ren: "He only started..doing that after he started eating that soup. He did say he was sick though to me..so I don't really know."

Themis: "Did you smell anything weird? I know there was a poisoning so I am trying to find proof."

Ren: "Uh what do you mean you know? I smelt a mixture of all that weird food. I smelt some berries and nuts. Cashews or..I don't know the names of them. But there was a candle I remember seeing so I think it was that. Or just the food mixing together."

I don't like things contradictory. That candle's scent could have gotten fermented onto the soup and kept the odour with it..

But I need to get the answer I want. I need to get proof of poisoning.

Arcelia: "Agh..! Pfft!! Pufft!"

The pirate was near the deranged dinner table, holding onto an apple while spitting it out on the floor. 

Themis: "What's wrong? I doubt recommend eating the food anymore..after it's a'll stepped on. Unless you're an idiot or persistent."

Arcelia: "Mh.. I am not skilled in land knowledge, but I do not believe that this red fruit should taste so dry."

Themis: "I don't get it. You haven't seen an apple before? This class is just going to get weirder as this night goes on..  It's a fruit. But it shouldn't be dry it's full of juice."

I walked over, minding any pieces of food on the floor.

After grabbing it from her sharp hands I was meant with an empty weight. Even if apples are small they still have mass. This was light and airy and..white inside. The part where she had bitten from was white with tiny specs popping out."

...

This is styrofoam..! Why is there fake food mixed in with the real shit?!

I walked to the table, picking up food that remained on the table.

Themis: "What the..."

All this food was made from styrofoam and wax..and other non-edible materials.

Arcelia: "Holding the power to uplift an entire cake by oneself and tear it in half. Remarkable."

Themis: "What? It's fake food! It's all.. fake. But the food I had was real. The food we ate was real. The dishes that were around the seat we were meant to sit at were all real. That explains why it took so little time. A real high gourmet place would have taken this entire party to cook so much delicacy."

I think that journalist kid appeared behind me, writing notes in his little book.

Arcelia: "That fruit was not nutritious. But neither is hard tack.."

Themis: "Because it isn't. Are you listening? I just have to figure out where that smell was coming from."

Arcelia: "I have been trying to figure things all evening. Like why those speakers don't play sound."

Themis: "You've seen a speaker but not an apple?"

I chose not to question her further. When I looked up I noticed little holes on the ceiling. Like speaker holes. But like she said there was no sound or music coming out of them..

I took a deep breath in while on my tippy toes, and was met with a stronger scent of different food scents.

They used some type of scent speaker to make us think all that food was real.. smart bastards.

I don't really have an idea of who did this though, considering John was the only host we had. Any of us wouldn't have the time to put a speaker in the ceiling.

Except John.

He was here before we arrived for who knows how long.

I think I have enough information to go over the series of events though... I'll just be missing some things. I can fill in the holes later.

I turned to the little dude.

Themis: "Think you could round everyone up in the lobby for me? I need to announce what I think happened to everyone and ignore anyone who has contradicting views."

Apollo: "...?"

Oh, right.. he doesn't even talk a lot. I don't know why he looked at me like I was in contempt of court. People get annoyed and offended so easily these days.

Themis: "Excuse me uh..."

I forgot the pirate's name.

Arcelia: "Yes?"

Themis: "Yeah. Thanks. I want you to get everyone into the lobby."

Arcelia: "Alright. Didn't that little boy run off though..I don't believe I can get him from here."

Themis: "I can deal with that.."

What I mean is that I can get someone else to deal with it under my order.

She raised her voice a bit while me and the other guy walked to someone else, gathering the people in the cafeteria to take them away. 

Orpheus: "Hello, Themis. What service are you requiring from me exactly?"

Themis: "I don't need any service. I'm just standing here."

Orpheus: "Mm. Strange. Okay."

...

Themis: "I want to know if you're able to find that little crybaby kid."

Orpheus: "You want to know if I'm able to? You know, I do not mind being told that I am going to be doing something. I know that's what you would have preferred to have said."

Themis: "Okay.. then you are... sir."

He nodded, looking down at me with the eye he had that wasn't covered by an eyepatch squinting like he was holding a cheeky smile under his mouth covering scarf.

Orpheus: "I don't believe I hold the worth to be called that. Nor a man. Nor a boy. I do not want to waste the voice that resides in your flesh, so mayhap do not use that."

So what do I even calling you.. I don't really care though.

Skye: "Could I go with you? He ran off before I could even know if he was okay.."

Orpheus: "Were you not the reason he ran off in the first place? I will be fine little miss. I read a brochure. This place is very uniquely constructed.. mm."

She let a light scoff out, continuing back to the lobby with everyone else.

They walked down the hall to find the kid, leaving me and the journalist alone in the cafeteria.

...

I may not have the full answer I wanted, but I can tell if I don't ingrain something now, these people will start losing it and being irrational.

...

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I waited in the lobby while standing at the receptionist desk. Everyone else was standing around with anxious faces.

Notably no one was sitting or standing around Lauren. It wasn't important to take note of or notice though...

Themis: "Could you come up here to write things down, uh.. Polo..whatever? Not much of use over there."

Ren: "He's fine sitting here. He's not much of use if you can't even remember his name."

...

I held a glass cup in my hand while stepping around waiting for that thing and the kid to come back. The cup didn't have any purpose it just looked cool and put more focus on me.

???: "NUHNOOO!!!"

Sounded high-pitched and whiny, with a tone of trying to be scary and intimidating. There's our final guest.

Octavius: "LET ME DOWN. THIS ISN'T HOW YOU TREAT PROFESSOR PROFUSELY! STOOOOP!"

You could tell he had essence of fear and desperation.. but it wasn't enough to make me feel bad. Because I don't.

He was sat down on one of the sofa's, not bothering to make a run for it after. Afterwards, Ken walked over to stand next to the surgeon. Maybe that isn't their name they look too feminine to be a Ken. I can't remember her name. 

And then everyone's eyes were jumping on me, looking into each pore of my moisturized flesh. I'm used to presenting the facts of a case while already knowing how it completely went down, not figuring it out as I speak. 

Typically the lives of other people aren't also in danger when I present the truth... but I couldn't let it get to me. I wasn't scared.

...

I wasn't scared..

Viola: "Why are we just standing and staring? I can see why but shouldn't we be trying to get out of here..? Why isn't anyone opening the doors?!"

Kenzie: "Arthur tried leaving and running away before actually using the phone to call for me, but they were locked!"

Arthur: "What?? No, I wasn't...I.."

What a way to call someone out.     

Themis: "Okay that's enough, shut up please."

Silence. At least it worked.

Themis: "Because of this sudden mishap, and I am the only person here affiliated with the law, I made it my responsibility to figure out what happened to our professor as I am aware he was held deep in our hearts."

Ren: "You mean our professor? You didn't even know him or any of us before you came here. When you and.. Lauren went to the elevators he told me that you were learning everyone's names."

Orpheus: "Mmm."

Themis: "And? I quickly learned that he was a nice man. Just let me finish. I wanted to present to you what I believe happened in an order of events."

I looked at Apollo, hinting that he started writing.

Themis: "The professor's exact cause of death is unknown because it could be a variety of things. But we do know that he was coughing and wheezing for air, which means that his lungs were presumably attacked. Of course we found no blood or bruises, which deducts the possibility of any blade or external force.. so it had to have been put inside him."

Leviathan: "But I thought I saw a red stain at the end of the table. Where we were sitting."

People started to look confused. His head was so far into his phone I doubt he saw anything that was out of his pixelated view. He has no right to talk and make me look like an idiot.

Orpheus: "Seems like you're wr-"

Lauren: "I-I cut my finger when I was sitting over there. My knife was oddly sharp for a...vegetarian meal. Um.."

...?

Was she butting in to deflect that boy's claim? I don't see why she needed to.. but at least it will be easier for me. She wasn't showing her finger or bandaid either, it was as if she was lying to protect or help my claim...

Georgia: "So.. then are you implying that he was poisoned? It feels like you're jumping all over the place."

Themis: "E-exactly right!"

My focus was thrown off from that bitch.

 Freya: "You better not say it was one of us! That's all you law people do. We all loved the professor!"

Viola: "Ew."

Freya: "Platonically, you asshat!"

...

Themis: "I don't want to waste my time I'm not going to suspect people I have no connection with and don't even know their motives of doing so."

That does sound like why I would suspect someone though...

Themis: "From what I found, the professor was poisoned by somebody during dinner. I'd say his food was poisoned, which led to his death after consuming it."

Ren: "But then I would have been dead too. He let me try some of his soup before he went around with the champagne."

I probably would have let out a sigh of relief if that happened. But now I have to think more because people keep getting in my way..!

...

.......

.........

Octavius: "Why did he stop talking..."

Kenzie: "I don't know.."

Their whispering took me out of focus, but luckily I had grabbed my answer beforehand.

Themis: "His poison was added after that then, or even during the champagne pouring. He wasn't near his food to see it be tampered with. The killer must know some stuff about chemistry as what I assume the poison is, was the chemical compound Hydrogen Cyanide. When I investigated the meal I could smell the bitter scent of almonds and I also found a labelled spot in the cafeteria where a bottle of it was meant to go. And that bottle was missing."

Ren: "That's not what it tasted like..."

Skye: "Why would there even be a bottle of chemicals in the kitchen??"

Orpheus: "This whole building is odd. I don't doubt that there would be danger hidden around."

Ren: "Even if it was during the pouring me and Arthur would have seen the poison being added."

That quiet shit was whispering his questions so Ren would ask them for him. He's meant to be writing my words down not making me say more.

Themis: "Were you looking at the food while he was going around the table? That goes to both of you."

Ren: "Um.."

Arthur: "I was talking to Kenzie... but—"

Themis: "So you never actually saw if anyone put poison in his food?"

The orange dude looked defeated.

Skye: "They still would've..y'know.. seen someone get up to poison his soup. All of us would have.."

...

Themis: "Uh. Exactly, which is why the culprit was hiding..! Instead of being in the public eye."

Arcelia: "But all of our crew was accounted for."

Georgia: "Then it can't be any of us. Unless someone was irrelevant and ignored..but we are all too different to be so."

She took a sip from a little cup, glancing to the side.

Themis: "It's because the killer is still hiding. Hoping we won't find them."

That seemed to cause a reaction from some, while others kept looking at me with confusion or interest.

Kenzie: "But like, then where would they be.. like hiding?"

Thats a good question.. 

...

I turned to face the cafeteria's entrance from the lobby, observing the dinner table.

Themis: "Kenzie, I recall you saying you thought someone kicked your leg earlier during dinner?"

Kenzie: "Um.. yeah..!"

I started walking towards the cafeteria to the dinner table, everyone following me gradually.

Themis: "Because of that, I believe we know where the professor's killer is. This tablecloth is rather opaque and a bit oversized for this table, enough that it reaches the floor."

Leviathan: "So are you suggesting they're hiding under the table? Like right now?! That's.."

Lauren: "We should listen to Themis. He is the closest to a police officer we have..!"

Arthur: "But it's still...it doesn't sound real, it sounds—"

I crouched down, picking up a portion of the tablecloth and lifting it up.

...

[ *GASP* ]

Themis: "What the shit..?!"

Freya: "AHH!! IT'S A MAN!"

I..didn't expect there to actually be someone under there. 

Arthur: "Wh-whwhat?!"

It...it was the bellhop from when we first arrived here..!

Orpheus: "Well.. that is remarkable..!"

He was crouched down under the table, holding a bottle of a clear liquid.. the murder weapon. Or.. substance.

Arcelia: "Stay back from the table everyone! We are looking at a slasher..."

Ren: "Of course he looks ugly!"

He had his fists balled up like he was about to run up to the man and fight him.

Lauren: "Themis, I-I don't think it's safe to be there!"

The bellhop stood up from the table, so I backed up to avoid any further damage to myself.

He reeked of bird shit. It was the way he hadn't made any noise that made my body chill like icicles..that he was able to be so calm after being found like this.

Bellhop: "Good job. You deserve... a star, young boy. Mmm. Nice.."

He took out a sticker, pressing it onto my coat with a smile stained yellow like rotting dandelions. The way he pressed on my chest to rub in the sticker was uncomfortably rough...

Themis: "What the fuck is your deal?! The cops are already called, so—"

[ *Clap Clap* ]

...

???: "Ohohoh! Isn't that amazing! You solved your wittle professor's murder!"

A cooky feminine voice sprouted out of nowhere, a woman dressed in a red..carrousel..dress..? It was such a weird design of skirt. It was three dimensional. She was covered in large uncomfortable ruffles.

Everyone was talking over each other in a panic.

Ren: "Y.. you. What?!? WHAT IS EVEN GOING ON."

Georgia: "I..I too would like an explanation..!"

She looked actually worried.

Octavius: "I'm scared..."

Arcelia: "You must not let your fears overwhelm you, little man. Now, if you may please tell us what in heavens sake is happening?! Have you been watching us this entire time?"

???: "Mmm, yep. And it was SOOO fun watching you solve a murder. It was unnecessary but..at least one of you got a cute little gold star, aww."

Her clown make up contrasted her poofy orange braided hair. Everything about her was like a mix of a clowns humour and a killers demented aesthetic.

Arthur: "That..that's so messed up..!"

Ren: "You weird bitch! Let us go. At least me.."

???: "Well I'm not a dog, am I? I'm afraid you will not be leaving any time soon, so to make sure you are used to seeing me, you may call me by my name! Calamity. And this is my resort."

Calamity Rose then I assume.

Calamity: "And that masked one who you found under the covers is my assistant! Aamon."

Aamon: "Mm. What a way to start off the school year. And also your game."

Octavius: "Professor Profusely does not have time for games! Because he is about to pee himself...!"

Skye kept trying to step closer to him, but I think she got the memo that she shouldn't. She still looked distraught.

Calamity: "Oh I almost forgot about the game. Thank you dear Aamon! I would forget my head if it was not connected to my body with juicy flesh.."

I kept feeling my heart rate rise with each giggle she let out, stepping back to join the crowd. I accidentally bumped into...Lauren, and I felt like I could feel the anxiety radiating off of her. 

Calamity: "Ahem. Now to formally announce why you are here! You are here to compete in a very special game. A killing game! Here! At my own resort! Oh it's exhilarating isn't it? I just get the bubbly fuzzes thinking about it..."

It was like our comfort was stepped on and buried. All she did was lower us more in a pit of cringe.

...

But.. she said. A killing game...?

Lauren: "Nononono..."

Arthur: "A k..that's not something to joke about..!"

Skye: "Jesus— Rick wake up. This is unbelievable! The fuck do you mean killing?!"

Rick: "GAY! I mean. GAH! Killing?! Whudahell?!?"

Everyone was chattering in anxious breaths. I swear the temperature in the resort raised with everyone's sweating heads.

Viola: "Jesus he's STILL drunk. This is too much for a pretty plump girl like me..! *sniffle*"

I think some people were starting to cry. Mostly that coffee girl and the chemist, but the piano weirdo has covered his face with his suitcase.

Georgia: "You.. you are mistaken..correct..? You.."

Calamity: "No not at all! I'd give you a basic run down, but you and your shiny little prosecutor seemed to already completed my tutorial! You will be killing each other and then finding out whodunnit, but I'll explain how when you get to that point of our game."

Ren: "Wh-wu so you kill our professor and now you expect us to kill each other?! Good luck with that you witch..!"

Freya: "This is so gross and icky! Gingers are so gross! Ughh!!"

Leviathan: "Hating yourself was like.. so last year girl. But this is so totally fucked..!"

He was hugging himself rather flamboyantly, standing closer into the girl with the tea.

Orpheus: "Haha..! I see your attempt for comedy you malevolent duo, but may I ask what if we choose not to submit to your games rules? Then you have no choice but to let us go."

Skye: "You should be the last one to talk about peace and harmony!"

She stole my words from my mouth. 

Calamity: "I mean if you don't kill then I'll just make you! With a motive of course. Or you'll just live here for the rest of your lives and never see your families again, your choice! Hehahahah!"

Kenzie: "Waahhaa...! I wanna go home! *Sob.*"

Octavius: "Me too!!"

Lauren: "Please-please just let us go! We will do anything!"

She sounded so desperate and destroyed...

Calamity: "Liiike... kill someone? That's the only way I'll let you out free!"

Viola: "Surely there's a bribery option.. I don't know about these lower class but I don't mind giving my life savings. Just... let me go..!"

Themis: "I. I DON'T BELIEVE YOU! There's no way this could possibly be real!"

All that circus girl did was tilt her head to look at the professors body, that was being picked up by the Bellhop. Which..was enough to make me believe her again..

Aamon: "Ooh, Calamity look at the big piñata I found."

Calamity: "Oh, it's so ugly! Go and bring him upstairs so we can get the candy inside!"

Ren: "YOU- *mumble* YOU CAN'T BE-*mumble* MMGMHGH *mumble*"

He started crying again, the frightened journalist holding on to him like he was a kid lost at a carnival.

I think at least.. I don't know what people were doing anymore. I think I randomly got hit with realization. My hands felt cold and numb while my back and head were heating up. I felt like a dead man walking. Except I wasn't walking, I was standing in place...paralyzed. 

Calamity: "Well hasn't this been a night! I think it's time you received some shut eye. I hope you get some rest because I'll be sharing more information when you're in better shape! May-per-haps you give that sauced up one a hand to his dorm? I will be going now."

Her childish tone being from such an old voice made it sound like she was speaking in riddles. And then she skipped away, her dress flailing freely like a bird without worries. Like it had dropped all of its weight down to the other birds that were trying to stay in the air. And now we were on the ground, unable to fly.

...

...

He..that. That man walked off with her to the elevators.

...

Everyone was quiet. Every ounce of freedom had been sucked out of us, and we were now a flock trapped in a cage.

The nearby sound of a fridge buzzing was all it took to make everyone come back to reality and panic.

Arthur: "Have to.. get.. out.."

He immediately backed away from the group, running back to the lobby.

Some others followed him as well, notably Kenzie and Apollo...with the annoying bunny guy.

Georgia: "Why are they trying again.. it was locked, we.. tr.."

She started choking up on her words, covering her face with her bangs and hands. The blonde dude went to comfort to her, but it was also like he was acting as a shield to prevent us from seeing her like that.

Skye: "Octavius please, COME BACK."

He was sprinting down the hall to where the elevators resided, splashing right through the water fountain in the middle of the long hallway.

Orpheus: "You will only cause more harm than good. Stay where you are."

That tall creep was holding onto her shoulder with a grip. She looked rightfully uncomfortable.

Viola: "I. I'll just sleep it off.. yeah. This is too unbelievable to be real..."

She was clutching the diamond necklace on her neck, backing into a wall.

Lauren: "..."

Lauren was starting to walk down to the elevators as well. She had a quick step which made her heels tap on the ground hastily.

Themis: "Lauren-"

I went to follow, and soon catched up behind her. 

Lauren: "Nono..stop, Them..i. I need to go. Alone.."

Her voice was like a shattered sculpture. Something so pretty and delicate to be seen by the people around her, now broken into pieces, becoming a distasteful pile of former perfection...now to be stared at with pity and doubt.

Themis: "Where are you going..?!"

She was trying to walk faster, but her heels caused her to only speed walk with a wobble.

Lauren: "Sleep- That that's the only.. it's a dream. It's not real- it's not real I'm just going to sleep..!"

I stopped, letting her get away like she wanted to. She..had a point. The only explanation. A dream. These people weren't real. I'm only sleeping. This is why I hate the brain. It. It makes stuff like this happen!

I need to get to my room. And get out of this dream.

...

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...

...

I rotated the key, the door to my hotel room opening with a depressive creak. Like a frog letting out its last croak before succumbing to the cold.

After quickly shutting the door I darted around the room, feeling like my heart would burst and paint the blue room red.

It's chewing down on me and exposing the raw layers of insecurity. But I don't know what it is.

I could barely focus on the details of the room other than it was blue with particular gold accents on certain objects.

I still felt like I was being watched even in what's meant to be a bedroom. I couldn't even think of it as a dream anymore. It wasn't a dream. I was awake.

And I was in hell.

There were suitcases in the room. Not suitcases I brought..

Why are these here.

I unzipped them, roughly investigating them. 

All they had in them was clothes. My clothes. Direct replicas of what I was wearing. And that's all it took to send me into a spiral.

...

...

...

...

I started ripping the clothes out of the suitcase, my body heat reflecting that of the suns pathetic blazing wrath. 

And I couldn't hold it in. I was pathetic. I was too overwhelmed with everything that had happened. That I couldn't hold in my tongue.

Themis: "AAAAAAHHHHHHHGGHHHHHG!!"

.......

Themis: "GGGAAAAAAAAAAAAHHGGGHHHH!!!!!"

It was like fire rested on my eyelids, sending boiling tears to stream down my heated face. I couldn't stop. I wanted to stop being so defenceless and pathetic but I couldn't stop crying. I'm never meant to be crying why am I being so WEAK?!

I was crouched into my knees, holding onto my coat collar. I just wanted to explode out of myself and get away. 

And I couldn't. I was kept inside my body. I was kept inside a baby.

My throat had died from the knives I spewed out from inside. I couldn't speak. Everything I did just made me more weakened.

But. 

I fell out of it. 

My phone was letting off an alarm.

I recognized the alarm, which filled me with more panic. I looked at my phone, reading the notification. My blood sugar was reading an 11...
I hadn't even realized my fatigue. My throat was dry like tumbleweeds flew around.

I got up and went into the bathroom that was in the room, busting down the door with an urgent haste. I quickly uncapped the insulin pen I had in my pocket, the cap falling into the bowl of the sink. I rushed to unbutton my dress shirt so I could put the pen in, but my hands were dripping in sweat...

Themis: "OPEN YOU.. ASSHOLE."

Instead, I ripped open my shirt.. a button flying off and slamming into the mirror. I couldn't pay attention to it though, so I continued to set the pen to the right dose, inserting the needle around my abdomen.

...!

Shit. I'm.. too tense from all this. I could feel the needle inside, a bratty whine escaping my mouth.

I held on the wide sink counter, my now dampened hair covering my eyes.

...

...

I wiped my hair to the side. My dressy hat was left in the other room. I stared at the cap of my pen in the sink bowl. It was all I could focus on. 

I kept waiting for nothing. But then the nothing became something, and I looked forward to the mirror, staring at the one looking back at me with disgust.

The mirror was cracked from the button that hit it, creating copies of the disheveled mess that was eyeing me down.

I was tired. All I can do is cry or sleep. I don't want to cry. I don't want to be weak. I can't be weak. I. I have to sleep.

I pushed myself off the counter, slowly walking out to the bedroom that I had destroyed earlier. 

All I could do was fall on the bed. It was roughly packed with cotton, but not a comfortable fit. The blanket smelled aged, like it was filled with dry rot.

It was all I could rest with though. My phone was rested next to my distressed face, my blood sugar app showing my levels starting to go down to a better rate..

...

My body started to float away into a void...

...

I became lost into another realm, my life fuzzing out from the edges like static on a television. There wasn't any dream I could envision.. I was just drifting in an empty space. 

It was scary.

I was having a nightmare without even dreaming. I wanted to wake up but I was only able to look around in the void of my so called dream.

I was trapped in an empty black void, only me and myself and I alone. I was trapped in my head.

With my biggest rival. 

I wish.

I wish.

I wish there was hope...

To wake me up from this void of despair in my own prison.