Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

007n7 laid on his bed- can you even call it a bed? It was cold, hard, and difficult to sleep on, it was the only reason he picked this cabin from the others, nobody deserved this slab of concrete that called itself a bed.

His eyes glaze over as he mindlessly taps on his c00lgui, he's been trying to mess with it ever since he got here, maybe it can teleport them all out of here, maybe it can change this place to what he wants… it's wishful thinking he knows, probably completely impossible, the being keeping them here is a cruel god after all.

It's monotonous at this point, a cycle that he continues trying over and over to the same result hoping it'll change… it's just like this place really, a cycle that plays over and over hoping for something new or different.. 07 doesn't like thinking about it, it makes him feel sick.

The bright black and red screen slightly burned his eyes, he had to squint to see it well, he can't tell if it's because he's tired or if it's always been this blinding… It feels like it gets brighter and brighter every night. But 07 didn't mind, he didn't have the time to care, he'd rather escape and if that means giving himself even more vision problems so be it.

The gui's coding began to blur, yeah 07 is definitely tired.. Maybe he could see if they have a way to make coffee? It wouldn't be healthy per say but it'd help somewha-

“OW!-”

07 hissed as a sudden static hit his finger tips, his skin burned as he grabbed it letting the gui dissolve. 07 has gotten burned a few times doing hacking, he had thought he'd gotten over it not being able to feel pain in his hands anymore, but this time it was different… the burning sensation began to engulf his whole body, his mind felt like it was frying- it felt like what you'd imagine getting the electric chair would feel like the few moments before your demise. He tried to rise from his bed but instead was met with the harshness of the floor.

He whined and coughed, looking at his hands he saw… black and red static slowly consuming them, it was similar to the corruption that John Doe fella had.. Oh god.. Oh no.

07 tried to yell, to scream, to get anybody's attention. But instead a garbled coughing erupted from his throat instead, black ooze dripping from his lips. His body felt like it was contorting and twisting, it burned..

Was he dreaming? Was this all just some nightmare he'll surely wake up from-

“Poor pathetic creature… nobody's coming for you.”

07 paused, his head slowly lifting to see… that thing.

The creature he's only heard being described to him, their ghostly abductor that looked as if they were arising from fog, chains wrapped around their form.

“W-... Why-” 07 could barely get a sentence out before more black ooze sputtered from his mouth.

“Why am I doing this? Simple! I'm bored… and that little gui of yours is getting… Dangerous. I'd be better in the hands of somebody who doesn't know how to use it that well..” The Spectre swayed as they spoke. “Plus, wouldn't it be fun to shake things up? Oh imagine your teammates' faces- seeing their old comrade now a mangled husk of his former self, maybe they'll regret treating you so poorly… I'm not here for a soap opera after all- I'm here for the bloodshed.”

07’s head spun, this creature spoke as if they were just toys- characters in a twisted reality TV show that they could use for their own entertainment. He tried to yell, to fight back but to ooze kept coming and their body burned even more.

“Stop that, you'll just hurt yourself more.” The Spectre sneered for a moment before a more gleeful look came to their face. “Don't worry, you'll get a replacement! I've been needing one for a certain someone for some time after all..”

The Spectre cackled, 07 tried to do something but the pain was unbearable, he couldn't fight this… he let himself slip into a beast…

“C00lkidd…”

“No!”

1x dodged yet another poor attempt of the child fighting back, the pillow hitting the wall behind her. The child hid underneath the rest of the blankets and pillows he's hoarded, it'd look cute if he didn't look so monstrous.

“I'm not leaving until you stop throwing this… Tantrum.” 1x leaned on the cracking door frame. “The Spectre isn't happy with you.”

“I don't care!!” C00lkidd hit his hands and kicked his feet. “I don't wanna play no more!! It's boring and nobody knows how to play!! They just pretend to fall asleep so they're not it! It's unfair!!! It's stupid I just wanna go home and be with Papa!!”

1x pinched the bridge of her nose, a deep growling noise coming from the back of their throat as the child continued to whine. It was beginning to piss her off, despite being the incarnation of hatred it's hard to get her this upset.

“But it's your job you fool! You're meant to ki-.. Play- with them until The Spectre tells us otherwise. You cannot fight that, you don't want anymore warning for them after all..”

“I don't care what that butt face wants from me!!” C00lkidd threw another pillow, this time it actually hit and bounced off of 1x’s face, despite the force it didn't seem to bother her. “I.Don't.Wanna!!!!!!”

C00lkidd continued to whine and cry like a toddler, 1x wonders how that insufferable hacker managed to deal with him for so long if the tantrums were this annoying.

“Fine.” 1x snapped. “But don't come crying when you get punished.”

The door slammed shut, the door frame cracking even more than before. C00lkidd screamed into his pillow, tears staining it at this point.

C00lkidd was tired of this game, he just wanted to go home… nobody knew how to play the game and it was so annoying. He hasn't been able to snuggle with Papa in so long, he didn't want to be here anymore. Who cares what a meanie like Spectre thinks-

“C00lkidd.. Did your father ever teach you words hurt?”

Oh great..

C00lkidd didn't look up to stare at the ghost, he kept his face firmly placed onto his pillow.

“What do you want…”

“Awh, where's that cheery little C00lkidd..? I've missed him dearly”

C00lkidd just huffed in response. He felt something harshly grab the back of his neck making the child yelp in surprise and pain, shivering like a puppy as he was forced to stare at The Spectre.

“You know.. I brought you here to have fun, and hearing you aren't having fun hurts me so deeply..” The Spectre pouted slightly before their usual unnerving girn spreader onto their face. “How about you play.. A different game?”

“.. What typa game?”

“Well it's like.. Hide and seek! You and a few others hide and somebody seeks! You'll need to keep the seeker from touching you too many times or else it's game over! Does that sound fun?”

“Mm.. Do I gotta be the seeker..?”

“Nope!”

C00lkidd thought for a moment looking down at the floor before nodding.

“Mkay..”

“Perfect!!” The Spectre grin widened. “And don't you worry.. Somebody will take your place here while you're playing.”

“Okay! When will it start!?”

“Now.”

Spectre snapped their fingers as a portal appeared below the killer, they let go as C00lkidd fell, the child letting out a fearful scream… The Spectre could get used to it.

C00lkidd groaned, his head hurt really badly.. Probably because of Spectre being a meanie and not warning him before dropping him. He whimpered softly as he rubbed the back of his neck.

Blinking a few times, C00lkidd noticed he was in the Horror Hotel. He was about to go looking for people before he remembered he was a hider!! He wonders if Papa and his friends are hiders too, who's seeking them? If papa's here maybe he'd be able to hug him again.

C00lkidd meandered around for a little, spotting one of those machine thingys what were they… oh generators right! He's seen Papa and his friends get distracted while doing them so he can sneak up on them which was usually really funny. C00lkidd noticed something.. Usually he's much taller than the generators, being even taller than his Papa and friends!! But now he's the same height as the generator which was weird..

But he didn't mind! C00lkidd just kneeled down to do the generator, he's trying to mimic what his Papa and his friends do, the generator's sparking made him a little nervous but it's okay! He can do this…

… but he feels like there's something watching him.. Goosebumps rose on his arms as he fiddled with the generators, he shivered slightly as that feeling was not going away… something was getting closer.

C00lkidd tried to rush it, the sparks hurt his hands every now and again, he's halfway completed with the generator.. Maybe he could find somebody after this-

"̷C̵0̴0̴l̷k̸i̷d̸d̷?̸"̵

The child froze, that voice… it was warped and distorted, C00lkidd slowly turned his head, his body shivering.

There stood a monster, one that looked just like his father.

The survivors stayed in their usual safe place on the map- the ball pit was easy to escape and Builderman can usually get a sentry and dispenser inside. Nobody had seen the killer- a few heard odd noises but not a sight of it.

“I wonder who's the killer.. Do you think they're messing with us?” Noob shivered, huddling close to Guest.

“I'm betting it's somebody new.” Builderman said as he finished up his sentry. “if we haven't seen a trade of them? They probably don't even know what they're doing fully..”

“Well at least it's an easy round?” Elliot nervously chuckled.

Small conversations happened between the survivors, they didn't get the time to talk like this since they're fighting for their lives, but everyone still spoke quietly just in case..

“I have a question.” Two Time clapped their hands together, getting everyone's attention. “Has anybody seen 007n7 yet? I heard some… odd noises from his cabin last night.”

Everyone paused, looking at each other before mumbling “no”’s or shaking their heads. Two Time frowned.

“Do you think he's dead?” Noob worried.

“Nah.. Dude probably would've screamed by now..” chance absentmindedly flipped his coin.

“Two Time.. Did you get to look at 07’s cabin?” Builderman looked down at the cultist, who hummed softly in thought before responding.

“A little.. I was looking at it before this round. There was no sign of him but there was this black goo on the floor.. It was like tar in a way. I have no clue what could've happened, I could only pray to The Spawn he's safe..”

Everyone murmured in agreement, 07 wasn't the most popular person in this group, but they had to stick together in this purgatory. Even with grudges it's better to put those to the side until they've escaped..

The survivors continued their conversations, a few theories on who the killer was or where 07 was dominating the group, it was just such a strange circumstance that everyone was worried even folks like Elliot who never got along with him.

Suddenly, a scream was heard.

It wasn't a scream anybody recognized, it was shrill, high pitched, echoing through the hotel making a few people's ears ring. Shedletsky pulled out his sword, getting up from his spot.

“You all wait here.. I'll investigate.”

“Are you sure you don't need us? It could be dangerous.” Guest asked.

“No- if that thing comes for you all you'll need extra protection, don't worry I'll be back soon!” Shedletsky grinned before running off.

Run.

That's all C00lkidd could do. Run as far as his little legs would take him, that creature posing as his father chased after him.

"̶C̸0̸0̵l̴K̵i̷d̴d̵-̷ ̴c̵o̴m̴e̵ ̸b̵a̴c̴k̶ ̶h̶e̴r̴e̴!̸!̶!̴"̶

It's voice was scratchy and sore, black sludge spilling out everytime it spoke, it was a poor imitation of his dad- his dad's voice was soft, warm, gentle, this… this was the exact opposite.

C00lkidd ran through rooms, trying to get it off of him, but it wouldn't budge.

"̷K̷i̷d̸d̶o̸ ̷p̷l̷e̶a̷s̵e̴ ̵c̷o̴m̷e̵ ̵b̵a̷c̶k̵-̴ ̵l̶e̵t̷ ̸m̴e̷ ̸c̴h̸e̶c̸k̵ ̵o̷n̴ ̵y̴o̴u̴.̸.̵.̴"̴

“LEAVE ME ALONE” C00lkidd shouted, tears streaming down his cheeks. He huffed, slowly down, no no no he can't be getting tired now.. He ran out one room into a hallway, he noticed somebody.. A man with a white shirt, yellow skin and curly hair… Shedletsky!

C00lkidd knew he was a friend of his papa's, he had a big sword that normally hurt real bad.. That wasn't even allowed in tag! But maybe.. Maybe it'll help him this time.

Shedletsky stared in confusion.. They hadn't touched this generator? How was it halfway completed? Was there somebody new or-

“ HELP!”

Shedletsky jolted, looking over to the small creature running towards him and…

Oh my god.

He looked at the beast- no- his friend. Twisted from the Spectre, arms and legs had been elongated, making him tower over any of them while standing up straight, corrupted code surrounded his form as it made this shrill noise.

That thing running towards him was C00lkidd usually Shedletsky would slash him without much thought but he was now small, the stature of a child. His arms were spread out as he ran towards the admin, tears streaming down his cheeks as he ran from the mangled version of his father.

Shedletsky closed the gap between the two, scooping the child in one arm, lifting his sword in the other. He slashed at the beast, it made this ear splitting scream once it was it, Shedletsky ran behind it disappearing into a room nearby.

"̸N̴O̶!̸!̶ ̷G̸I̷V̸E̵ ̷M̶E̷ B̷̼̠̣̞̰̍Ã̶͓̙̱͝͝C̴̱̳̅̌K̴̡̠̘͍̕ ̸̢͖͉͂̿M̷̜̠͋̉̈́͌̾Y̵̨̛̼̩ ̴̨̻͖̺̉̈̍͜S̷̝̈́̏̾̈́͐Ó̵̯͉̭͎̗̐̚Ṉ̸̻͙̉!̵͓͇͖͌͝!̸͂̍̉ͅ"̶̨͙̩̭̦́̅̀̋

The sword fighter hid in one of the closets as the beast ran past, Shedletsky holding the child close to him. C00lkidd silently sobbed into his chest, shivering like a leaf. Shedletsky’s hold was strong, it was a bit comforting to the small child.

“I don't wanna play this game..” C00lkidd sobbed. “They said it was fun but it isn't!!”

Shedletsky gently shushed the child, rubbing circles into his back, it's fbeen awhile since he's done this…

“Hey hey.. It's okay.. You're okay.. I've got you…” Shedletsky did his best to comfort the sobbing child. “What happened..”

“The- the Spectre said- said that I could play another game because- *hic* because tag was boring.. B-but- *hic* but they didn't tell me that- that it'd be scary..” C00lkidd hicked and sobbed as he spoke, trembling in Shedletsky's arms.

Shedletsky was disgusted.. Why would that thing- do this? It was cruel to bring a child into here in the first place but this? Forced to go up against his own father and twisting him so heavily.. Shedletsky squeezed the boy tighter.

“Don't worry.. It'll be okay.. I'll keep you safe..”

“D-do you- *hic* do you promise…”

“I promise..”

Shedletsky let himself slide down onto their floor, C00lkidd snuggling close to him for comfort. This kid didn't deserve this, even with all the hacking and being forced to kill them.. This was too harsh. He didn't deserve this.

The two sat in that position, Shedletsky occasionally murmuring gentle soothing words, the comforting was interrupted by more screaming- shit. 007n7 must've found the others.

Shedletsky pondered just staying here.. Guest and Chance could handle themselves, maybe he could just say he died somewhere to avoid the shame of hiding. However the child tugging at his shirt snapped him out of that thought.

“Come on-” C00lkidd sobbed. “We gotta go help ‘em.. They might get hurt!”

Shedletsky looked down at him before nodding, he kept the child close to his chest as he stood up. He walked slowly, carefully, he doesn't know what 07 was capable of, and the sound seemed dangerously close…

Guest hissed as Elliot began patching him up, Chance and Two Time were taking turns distracting 007n7, Dusekkar providing support for those two, Noob merely hid behind the wall with Guest & Elliot.

“The fuck is that thing.” Guest huffed out, the soldier's eyes filled with fear for the first time in years.

“I have no idea..” Elliot spoke softly. “That- that can't actually be 07..can it?” Elliot shivered at the thought, he hates to admit it but he's grown to care about the man these past few months.

“That thing it's- it's horrific..” Noob murmured, tears welling their eyes. “I'm surprised Chance and Two Time can even- face that thing!”

While that.. Thing was getting distracted, Builderman built a sentry nearby, hoping maybe those two could lure it in.

He heard the creaking of the old floorboards, he glanced over to see his fellow admin leaving one of the hotel rooms.

“Shedletsky.” Builderman’s tone was sharp, making Shedletsky jolt slightly.

“Heyy builderrr..” Shedletsky squeezed the child closer to him, making it so Builderman couldn't see him. Builderman raised an eyebrow.

“.. What are you hiding?”

“Nothin'-”

“You're clearly holding something.”

“I dunno what you're talking about.”

“Shed.. What are you hiding.”

Shedletsky looked away, a mix of shame and guilt on his face.. How could he explain this to him or anybody? C00lkidd is a danger, he's killed them countless times and here he was, cradling him like a newborn child.

Builderman stepped forward, reaching out, Shedletsky pulled away.

“Shed what's gotten into you all of a sudden-.. That thing didn't corrupt you did it?”

“No!” Shedletsky looked at his old friend before glancing away. “It's just-.. I dunno how- to explain-”

“You don't have to explain if you just show me!”

“I'm- I'm not doing that-”

“Shedletsky-”

“You'll get upset-”

“I'm ALREADY upset because you're hiding something that could be HELPFUL-”

"̶̝͕̩͙̙̠͉̈͛͂͆͊ͅS̵̢͚̬̻̅͐͋͑͑̑͒͘͝H̶̨̟̬͖͎̩͉̻͚͕̲̭̤͓͕̋̃͊͒̊̀͗̾̾͒̇͝Ë̵̛͖͈͍̬̟͕̹̹̹̜̹̱̮̼̣́̓́͂́̊͝D̵̝̫̼̖̰̲̼̭͔͚̗̞̰͇͋̈́͐̇̌̀̒͒͋͛̉͘L̸͈̹͉͕͎̭̳̞͛̋͑̽̉̇̉̅̚ͅE̸̢̜͕̗̳͖̣̓͒̽̍͋̈̀T̷̠̺̜͍̤̥̤̙̥̞̣̱̈́̋ͅS̷̛͓̥̣͎̓̍͊̔̈̓̅́̕͠ͅK̸̨̹̟̖͓̼̠̪͚̪͍͘͜͜͝Ý̴̛̭̟̻̳͐͗̑͗̿͐̇̾̊͜͝"̴̨͎̮̫̝͖̂̄͂

Shedletsky and Builderman both froze, her faces turning to 007n7, he stood up straight glaring at the admin before bending down and booking it towards him.

Shedletsky didn't hesitate, he ran. He ran as fast as he could, that thing didn't even seem to care about the others, rushing past them to beeline towards Shedletsky. Despite nearly fumbling and falling Shedletsky did his best to escape, he tried to pull his sword out but seering claws slashed his back, his sword clattered to the ground- he couldn't grab it. Somebody else could grab his sword or it'd appear next to him after this round was over, he needed to protect C00lkidd.

He slowed down, huffing, blood pooling down his back and onto the floor. He wonders if Builderman's dispenser was still in the ball pit, but he couldn't go see- it'd risk its destruction and his death.

"̴S̵h̴e̷d̴l̷e̵t̸s̶k̵y̵.̴.̷.̸"̵

007n7’s voice rasped as he spoke his name, Shedletsky held C00lkidd tighter, he needed to find a way out..he needed to survive. He glanced down at the kid, the c00lgui in his hands, he was sniffling as tears kept going down his cheeks.

"̷̠̱͕̀̈́G̶̡̖̟̏͌̈Ê̶̥̓̕T̴͍͕̑̎͒ ̶̭͋̈B̵̦̼̉Ạ̷̩̝̑̊͛Ĉ̸̣̅̔Ḱ̵̟̝͓͝ ̴͉̪͕̏͝H̷̱̜̪̓͠Ê̶͕̻̪R̸͈̆́E̸̛̦͔̙͒̐"̸̧̩̹̿͒͗

Shedletsky turned to face 07, instead of being faced with his demise he watched as he ran in a different direction towards… him?

Oh.. Oh! C00lkidd's gui must be similar to 07’s, it must have a similar cloning technique to his.. Shedletsky wasted no time, he rushed towards the ball pit, thank god the dispenser wasn't moved or destroyed. He slumped over on the wall, taking a sharp inhale as he did so.

Shedletsky's eyes were closed, he let out a shaky breath feeling as the dispenser helped his wounds. His eyes opened as he felt C00lkidd wiggling out of his arms, he sat next to the admin, the gui still pulled up.

His hands were shaking as he looked over the minimal amount of choices he had, they seemed different from 07’s..

“Hey.. Don't stress yourself out too much kid..” Shedletsky gave C00lkidd a gentle smile but frowned when C00lkidd shook his head.

“Nuh-uh.. you got hurt cuz of me..” The kid puffed his cheeks up, his finger slowly looked over his options seemingly reading something before clicking a button, a random treat appeared on the floor. C00lkidd grabbed it and handed it to Shedletsky.

“Here.. I see Mr. Elliot healing you with pizza all the time..”

Shedletsky looked down at the chocolate bar, he realistically didn't need it, the dispenser was right there and he still had his chicken.. But he slowly opened the wrapper and ate it anyway, he'd rather not upset the poor kid. He looked over to see C00lkidd with a wide grin, his tail thumping the pretend ball floor.

“The round I'll be over soon.” Shedletsky said softly. “Hopefully that thing doesn't get anybody in the meantime.”

“Mm.. I don't wanna play anymore.. Maybe The Spectre will put me back to normal.”

“Maybe.”

“Don't worry, next time we play I'll make sure not to tag you so hard!”

Shedletsky smiled at the kid.. He didn't really know what to do or say, this poor kid was forced to think he's playing a fun game when he's hurting people and now… he's being hurt as well.

C00lkidd snuggled up to his side, Shedletsky raised his arm for a moment before letting it gently rest on the kid's shoulder.

“You're soft like my Papa..” C00lkidd murmured.

The two stayed still, Shedletsky closed his eyes leaning back.. He felt the texture change as he was teleported back to the cabin, but their position stayed the same position for a long while, eventually Shedletsky felt C00lkidd's weight leaving his side hearing small giggling. His eyes slowly opened, he could see C00lkidd excitedly looking at flowers.. Wait.

C00lkidd shouldn't be here.. Did The Spectre really flip his and his father's roles just like that? That's.. Unbelievable. Shedletsky watched the child closely, C00lkidd happily looking at the daisy and poking at it every now and again, giggling the whole time.

Shedletsky stood up, making his way to C00lkidd and squatting down.

“Papa has a lotta flowers.” C00lkidd said. “We have two big sunflowers out by the front of our house.. And we have some other flowers in the house, like uh.. Roses.. Tulips.. Uhh, a few others..”

Shedletsky nodded along with what the kid said, he began blabbering about other things that came to his mind, his talking didn't last long, yawning loudly and slightly scrunching up his face.

“You must be pretty tired huh?”

C00lkidd nodded, yawning again.

“Do you think papa's here..?”

Shedletsky stayed quiet, scratching his chin.

“Uh.. Maybe.. We'll go see later! Come on- you can stay in my cabin for the night." Shedletsky picked the kid up, holding him close.

“Mm.. Where are you gonna sleep?”

“I'll get a sleeping bag or somethin’, don't worry about me kiddo.”

C00lkidd hummed slightly, his eyes dropped close, softly snoring as he fell asleep. Shedletsky was careful with his movements, doing his best to not wake him up, he didn't know if this kid was a light sleeper or not. Locking his cabin door he tucked the kid into bed, sitting on the edge of the bed. His hands covered his face, letting out a small sigh. What was he going to do.. 07 was gone, and how his son is trapped being a survivor with the rest of them.. Shedletsky liked making himself the leader in a way, or at least a second in command to Builderman, but he feels that crumbling in a way… how is he going to explain this? Would the others get upset at him defending this child? So many questions but not any sign of an answer.

He snapped out of his thoughts from a knock on his door, he stopped himself from yelping in surprise so he didn't wake the kid up. Carefully he made his way to the door, opening it slightly to see Elliot probably doing his usual check up.

“Hey Shedletsky! Are you doing alright? Builderman said you were acting weird earlier.” Elliot gave him that nervous but sweet smile he always had.

“Yeah yeah.. I'm fine, I was just stressed from seeing.. You know.” Shedletsky glanced away, Elliot nervously chuckled.

“I get you.. I wonder what that thing even was, cause there's no way it was actually 07!” Elliot's voice cracked slightly, Shedletsky could tell he was lying to himself. “I hope that thing doesn't come back anytime soon..”

“Yeah..”

“... Oh! Builderman wanted to talk to you-”

“I'll go see him later.”

“Uh well.. He said it's important- plus he has your sword-”

“I'm- a little busy- I'll go see him when I can.”

They looked at each other, Shedletsky giving him a nervous grin. Elliot sighed, not fully believing him but not wanting to argue.

“Okay.. I'll tell Builderman, just don't leave him hanging.” Elliot walked away, Shedletsky gave him a small nod as a goodbye.

He locked his door again, dragging himself to his bed and sitting himself down. He ran his fingers through his hair, looking down at the sleeping kid, he looked so peaceful, so… innocent. How could anybody hurt him, or put him through this.. Shedletsky felt sick again.

What was he going to do…

Chapter Text

C00lkidd stirred in his sleep, his eyes slowly cracking open. He was expecting to wake back up in his normal room with the broken door frame and claw markings on the wall and pillows and stuffed animals scattered around the floors but instead he was still in that cabin.

Did… did the Spectre really leave him here? He thought they were friends even with their rough patches, they always said they were friends at least..

Sitting up, C00lkidd rubbed his eyes, blinking as he looked around the cabin. It was kinda messy clothes scattered around the room as if the cabin's owner couldn't be bothered using the dresser, a few of the clothes were even stained with blood most notable in the white t-shirts, C00lkidd swung himself to the edge of the bed, he could see Shedletsky laying on the floor asleep, the child winced slightly thinking how uncomfortable it must be…

Jumping off the bed he wobbled slightly before standing up straight, he heard his stomach growling… How long has it been since he ate something? Spectre always said that they didn't need to worry about all that “useless stuff” but… he felt like he was starving.

He stepped over the admin, heading out of the cabin to the dense forest area they were in last night, so this is where the survivors stay… it was pretty similar to his and the others place, just less foggy..

C00lkidd took only a few steps before he dashed to hide behind a tree, peeking out he could see Chance and Two Time in conversation, C00lkidd couldn't just walk up to the house and get food with them around, he doesn't want to bother his dads friends… clicking his tongue a few times a idea popped into his mind, he remembers cloning Shedletsky the other day when that mimic chased them, maybe he could do that again…

He made his way behind the cabin, pulling out his gui. The food option from yesterday was also blocked but the cloning feature thankfully wasn't. C00lkidd could see he could make a clone of anybody, he didn't want to risk any of the others being awake so he clicked the option for Shedletsky, the clone materialized in front of the child.

C00lkidd blinked for a moment, it blinked back. He wonders how advanced this thing is…

“Can you… talk?”

“Can you… talk?”

C00lkidd jolted at the Shedletsky clone speaking the same sentence he just did, he tested a few more times and everytime the clone spoke the same words he did. He giggled excitedly, clapping his hands, he checked the gui and noticed an option for sunglasses. C00lkidd summoned them, materializing in his hands, he placed them on his eyes and found himself able to see out of the clones eyes. That's so… cool!! He's never been able to do this before- it's all so fun, he wonders what type of tricks he could pull or-

The loud growling from his stomach erased all those thoughts, right, food. He wrapped an arm around his stomach, whimpering softly as he began to control the Shedletsky clone.

Chance and Two Time didn't seem to notice him entering the cabin, he could see Elliot and Noob chatting on the couch, Guest resting on a chair nearby while Dusekkar seemed to meditate on the floor. Most of them just gave him a wave or nod in hello, C00lkidd- or- “Shedletsky” returned each movement.

Making his way to the kitchen the clone looked around to see if there was something to each, he opened the fridge door to see two slices of pepperoni pizza and bloxxy cola, his dad told him that pizza and soda wasn't a good breakfast but… his dad isn't here, he could have fun breakfast for once… he just hopes he these weren't for anybody else.

Snatching the food and drink, he began to make his escape with his meal, trying to move quickly and-

“Shedletsky!”

Oh no..

The clone froze as Builderman jogged towards him, huffing slightly.

“There you are, I can't blame you for being tired last night but you didn't have to just brush me off like that!”

“Uhm.. Sorry?”

C00lkidd had to be honest.. He had no idea how to even begin pretending to be Shedletsky, he's played with him before but playing doesn't really give you much in the personality department.. He's just gonna have to improve.

“Well I wanted to ask what was up with you last round.. You seemed like you were hiding something and 007- I mean- that thing- seemed to target you specifically..” Builderman tapped his finger to his palm as he spoke.

C00lkidd and the clone shuddered at the memory of that thing pretending to be his dad… he took a moment for formulate a sentence before speaking.

“I have no idea why that- uhm- thing was chasing me but I was just holding.. A medkit!”

“... A medkit?”

“Mhm!”

The clone gave a nervous smile, C00lkidd began to get nervous, Builderman gave him a weird look before sighing and rolling his eyes.

“You're so weird sometimes, Shed.” the admin shook his head and pinched the bridge of his nose. “Whatever.. You're probably still tired, we'll talk later.”

The clone nodded, beginning to walk away before Builderman grabbed his shoulder.

“Oh! Before you leave-” Builderman pulled a sword out, C00lkidd made the clone shift to hold the food and drinks with one arm, taking the sword. “You dropped this last round.”

“Thank you..” The clone smiled before rushing off, Builderman watching, raising an eyebrow, getting suspicious of his old friend's behavior..

The clone returned to C00lkidd's side, he made the clone place the stuff on the ground before it dematerialized. He picked up the food and soda, leaving the sword on the grass, Shedletsky would find it later. C00lkidd ran off and hid behind a tree again, he was scared of getting noticed, he didn't know why it's just… he was scared of being around dads friends.

He took a bite of the pizza, it felt like it'd been so long since he's had pizza, he stopped eating it because he got banned from Builder Brothers Pizza which he was adamant on being special from all other types of pizza but dad never understood. Since it was made by Elliot it tasted soooo similar, but maybe that's also the starvation talking…

Nevertheless, C00lkidd ate quickly, nearly choking on his food a few times. It had been so long since he ate the hunger finally caught up to him… before he knew it the food was gone but the hunger remained, C00lkidd was still so hungry… but the Shedletsky trick might not work again, maybe he could find something..

Shedletsky groaned as he woke up, scratching his head.. God his back hurt like hell, he probably should've grabbed something to sleep on. Whatever, he can find something later.. He stood up, stretching to try to relieve the pain.

He looked over at the bed, the kid was missing.. Great. Shedletsky was hoping he'd wake up before C00lkidd wandered off somewhere but he's always been one with bad luck, he's gotta figure out where that kid went.. He rubbed his eyes before leaving his cabin, yawning and stretching again, he waved towards Chance and Two Time on the porch. The two returned the smile and wave before pausing and just staring at him.. Weird.

Paying no mind to them he tapped his chin wondering where that kid ran off to, he meandered over to the docks, the water there never seemed to move or rippled no matter how many stones he threw at it. There was no sign of C00lkidd though so he returned to looking, he made his way to the main cabin checking around the sides and back making sure not to wander too far so the Spectre didn't try anything.

Again he found no sign of the kid, he made his way back up front, Chance and Two Time now gone. He decided to check inside the main cabin before the smaller ones, maybe he'd already made himself known to the others? That'd take a little off his plate at least.

The cabin was… eerily silent. Shedletsky got a tad nervous, he'd at least hear something, Dusekkar humming, Chance flipping a coin, Builderman tinkering with something, or even the distant muffled voice of Elliot but instead he heard nothing at all. It was too early for a round to start, plus it's rare for somebody to get left behind. Shedletsky shook it off, maybe everyone else is still sleeping and Chance and Two Time just got up early? Who knows…

There was no sign of life in the dining hall, though he did notice the fridge wasn't closed all the way.. Did C00lkidd take something from here? But somebody would've noticed him most definitely, at least Chance and Two Time since they were just at the entrance-

“SHEDLETSKY!!-”

The admin jolted at the sound of his voice, spinning around he saw Builderman rushing towards him, he opened his mouth to speak but Builderman roughly grasped his shoulders putting their faces a little too close for comfort.

“Did you or did you not get something to eat earlier!?”

“Wha- Builder what's wrong-”

“Answer.The.Question.”

“.. No? I just woke up.”

Builderman stared at the other, his eyes widened, he pulled away grabbing his own head.

“Oh no…Nononononono-”

“Builder hey calm down-” Shedletsky put a hand on the others shoulder to try and comfort him. “What's up?”

Builderman’s mouth hung open, trying to find his words, he took in a deep breath before speaking.

“I- well- I saw you or what I thought was you earlier but you were acting weird.. I thought you were just I dunno- tired or something from yesterday.. But then Chance and Two Time said they saw you just walk out your cabin a few minutes ago and I just-...”

“.. Well- that doesn't sound too bad?”

“.. I gave them your SWORD!” Builderman put a hand on his head, lifting up his hard hat in the process to show his distress. “Now there's this thing probably walking around pretending to be you- and it has.your.sword.”

Shedletsky looked at his friend, how could that be possible… Wait. C00lkidd… he made a clone of Shedletsky last round, using it to distract 07 before, that ability must've been unlocked in the lobby, which isn't very common.

“Look Builds, it's probably fine-”

“PROBABLY FINE!?” Builderman was stressed, one hand grabbing his fellow admins shoulder. “Look Shed I know you're that ‘chill, relaxed guy’ but this is serious!! We have no idea what could be impersonating you or what they want from us!!”

“Builds, it's probably just another survivor! Nothing to be worried about”

“Shed..” Builderman pinched the bridge of his nose, taking a deep breath. “We just lost somebody who could make clones. How did we know that thing isn't here and trying to mess with us- what if it's trying to lure us out to kill us-”

“Builds..” Shedletsky took Builderman's hand off his shoulder, squeezing it gently. “You know those things can't touch us here, it's impossible, it's probably some scared newbie who doesn't know how to properly say hello.”

Builderman looked down at his friend's bright grin, squinting at him.

“You seem.. Oddly confident about all that. Are you hiding something Shed?”

Shedletsky blinked a few times, his grin wobbling slightly, scratching the back of his head.

“Hehe.. I guess I've just got a good intuition!”

Builderman kept suspiciously looking at Shedletsky before sighing and rolling his eyes.

“I'll go get the others so we can look around..”

“Right right! I'll- start looking on my own!”

The two nodded their goodbyes as Shedletsky ran out the main cabin… God dammit, where did that kid run off too??

C00lkidd whined slightly, there wasn't anything he could find any food lying around, his dad taught him how to forage a little he said it was for emergency reasons only. C00lkidd was still so hungry, his stomach growling louder now, he wondered if Shedletsky had some of that chicken in his cabin, would he mind if he had just a little… ?

“C00lkidd??”

The child turned to the direction Shedletsky’s voice came from, he kept himself hidden in the foliage as he looked at the admin, Shedletsky looked… worried. He was about to run out to startle the man but the main cabin door swung open, Chance and Guest followed behind him, C00lkidd recoiled slightly seeing them, they were always so mean when they played… he stayed hidden instead, just watching them.

Shedletsky ran over to where the smaller cabins were, while Guest and Chance checked the sides of the main cabin, the others eventually came out as well to search. C00lkidd slightly backed away from standing right next to the foliage, he was scared…

…

“Shedletsky looks more worried than usual…” Noob looked over at Elliot as they searched together. “I mean, he's rarely ever stressed even when facing dangers and stuff..”

“Hm..” Elliot hummed slightly in thought. “You're right, Builderman did say he was on edge last round, maybe he's already seen the new survivor?”

“Maybe? But why would he hide that..” Noob fidgeted with their hands and the two walked away from the docks.

“.. I have no idea..” Elliot scratched the back of his neck. “Do you think there's some.. Bad reasoning behind it?”

“I dunno.. Shedletsky’s an admin right? He wouldn't do something like that- he's a good person.. I-I mean he's not rumored to be the previous hacker hunter Telamon for no reason!”

“I guess you're right.. But-”

Elliot stopped himself as the two saw rustling in a bush, the two glanced at each other, Elliot slowly approached the bush raising his hands up in a fist just like Guest does just in case…

C00lkidd meanwhile was panicking, they were getting closer… and surely Elliot would be stronger than him, he pulled up the gui shakily pressing on the cloning option, he took a deep breath, hopefully it'll act like his dad's for his visibility…

The clone Noob ran out, making the two let out loud screaming, Elliot tried to swing but his hand just went straight through the clone causing him to fall to the floor. The Noob clone stopped running to stare at the two, having no direction on what to do, the others quickly ran to the twos sides, Builderman helped Elliot get back up while everyone got distracted by the clone.

“That's.. Scarily accurate.” Chance said, carelessly walking towards the clone and poking at it. “Despite the dead look in its eyes.”

“I am.. Shocked, it hasn't fallen over yet. They truly seem more advanced than 007n7’s.” Dusekkar fiddled with his staff, holding it close just in case.

“But what caused them..” Builderman cautiously approached the clone. “Do you think it was that monster that looked like.. Him?”

“I doubt.” Guest crossed his arms. “It would've attacked us by now.”

“Yeah, it doesn't seem dangerous it seems.. Friendly?” Noob tilted their head.

“Do you think our new teammate is a hacker as well?” Two Time tapped their chin thoughtfully. “It would make sense..”

“But why would they have the same cloning ability as 07? Wouldn't they have more differences?” Builderman slightly flicked the clone, jolting as it fell to the floor and dissolved into the air. “Oops.”

A few more theories were thrown around, the worry and confusion obvious in the air even being present on people like Chance or Two Time. Shedletsky didn't say anything, just nervously played with the sleeve of his shirt.

He noticed Chance.. Staring at something, pure confusion on his face, he even pulled his sunglasses down slightly in a way to express his confusion more so.

“Chance? What you lookin’ at?” Shedletsky’s words got everyone to stop talking and look at the gambler.

“You gotta be shitting me..” Chance mumbled to himself, taking his glasses off and squinting before putting them back on. “Found our new guy.”

He gestured upwards and…

“C00LKIDD!?”

The young hacker sat on top of the main cabin, his knees pulled up to his chest, his face buried into them. C00lkidd was rocking himself back and forth, he was probably terrified.

“How did he get up there?” Two Time mused.

“Better question, how did he get here!?” Elliot was taken aback seeing that work place ruiner again.

“.. He's 07’s replacement.” Dusekkar said. “The Spectre must've put the child in his father's place, a life for a life one could say.. How cruel.”

“The Spectre is already a cruel being, this isn't out of character for them…” Two Time added.

“Somebody has to go get him!!” Noob shook slightly. “He could get himself hurt!”

“I think Sheds already on that.”

Chance's comment made everyone notice that Shedletsky had already disappeared from where he previously stood…

… Meanwhile Shedletsky had no idea why he was doing this. No idea why he cares so badly about this exploiter, maybe it was some form of previous guilt still lingering in the air, maybe if he'd done something different 07 would still be here, or maybe it's just some form of fatherly instinct, seeing the poor boy crying and fearful without any way to protect himself.

Whatever it was Shedletsky was moving, using the locked basement entrance to try to get himself on top of the cabin, how did C00lkidd even make his way up here? It doesn't matter now, that kid needed someone, and Shedletsky was already there for him before, it only makes sense he'd be there for the kid again.

C00lkidd could feel it watching.

Even if nobody else could see it, C00lkidd could feel it, those eyes glaring at him, those eyes that forever watched him and everyone else play.

“Aren't you having fun?”

He didn't look at it, they didn't deserve it.

“You tricked me..”

“What do you mean? I only gave exactly what I said, I never said it'd be fun.” The Spectre’s voice was laced with fake kindness, it was sweet but sharp like a poisoned candy.

“Games are ‘posed to be fun…” C00lkidd whined.

“Ah you got me there~ so clever C00lkidd!” The Spectre cooed, treating him like a toddler. “But you get new friends! Wasn't it so sad how none of your other ‘friends’ never seemed to care about you.. Even somebody like 1x treated you more like a burden! I'm just giving you what you deserve..”

C00lkidd glanced up, seeing The Spectre’s haunting grin… Did- did they always look so scary?

“... I want my dad.” C00lkidd murmured before shoving his face back into his knees.

“Ohhohoho… You'll see your old man again! I promise~” The Spectre let out an echoey laugh. “I'm not as cruel as they may say, if I was, I would've killed them all by now.”

“.. What do you mean?”

“.. Oh right! You don't know…” The Spectre tapped their chin before laughing again. “don't worry, you'll see soon!”

“But-”

“C00lkidd!”

The child turned his head, looking at the admin wobbly on the beam of the roof making his way towards the child. C00lkidd looked towards where The Spectre should've been but it seemed they disappeared when Shedletsky showed up..

Shedletsky sat by C00lkidd, the kid shuffling a little to be more properly sitting next to him.

“.. Why'd you come up here kiddo?” Shedletsky’s voice was gentle and soft, it reminded C00lkidd of how his dad would talk to him whenever he'd get a scrape on his knee from tripping.

“I got scared…” He mumbled. “This place is so weird… I just wanna go home.. I- I want my dad..”

Shedletsky nodded in understanding, gently placing a hand on the kid's shoulder.

“I get that, I wanna go home too…” Shedletsky glanced towards the docks. “But we just gotta stay strong, I know that we haven't had… the best relationship with you or your old man, but I promise we won't hurt you, and if anybody tries anything I'll get ‘em to stop alright?”

C00lkidd looked up at the older man, who gave him a warm smile, it was comforting. He snuggled up closer to Shedletsky.

“Mkay…” The kid turned his attention to the dock just like Shedletsky was. “If you say so..”

The two sat in that position, staring off into the waters.

“.. Say- how did you even get up here so quickly?”

“I uhm.. I used the fence, and jumped off of it..” C00lkidd nervously fidgeted with his sleeves.

“That's.. Pretty impressive kid.” Shedletsky moved his hand to ruffle the kid's hair. “You're pretty agile huh? That could be helpful in sticky situations, especially since you're pretty small.”

“Really?” C00lkidd beamed, his grin as bright as Shedletsky’s.

The two sat in silence for a while before a voice broke that silence.

“Hey! Are you two gonna…Get down from there??”

They looked down to see the group all huddled together, Builderman in the front with his hands on his hips in annoyance. Shedletsky nervously chuckled, patting the kid on the back.

“You ready?”

C00lkidd thought for a moment before nodding.

“Alright- just hold on to me!” Shedletsky scooped C00lkidd into his arms, making the kid giggle, he stood up, taking a step off the roof he began to slide off. Reaching the end of it Shedletsky jumped doing a flip before landing on his feet.

C00lkidd clapped his hands as Shedletsky placed him carefully on the ground.

“You didn't have to do all that..” Builderman walked towards the two, making C00lkidd hide behind Shedletsky.

“Well it made the kid happy, that's all that matters.”

Builderman sighed deeply, rubbing his eyes. Dusekkar floated next to him, the other survivors standing behind those two.

“You seem.. Oddly friendly with him already.” Dusekkar put his hands together, Shedletsky gave a nervous smile.

“I'm just good with kids, what can I say?”

“That's so weird..” Chance leaned forward to look at the hiding kid. “Why would The Spectre even do this?”

“To mock us maybe.” Elliot groaned as he spoke, looking at the kid with obvious disliking.

“I'm more curious about the clones, what else can you do little one?” Two Time tilted their head.

C00lkidd gripped at Shedletsky’s shorts, looking down at the floor not wanting to face anybody. He had this twisting feeling in his gut, that something's wrong, that he did something wrong. He doesn't know why or what he could've done…

“Uhm… I can make food.. And that's it, I think..”

“Huh, so we have another healer, unexpected but welcome.” Chance leaned back up. “Still did we have to lose 07 for this?”

“Chance not now..” Noob frowned, Chance merely scratched the back of his neck with a smirk.

“Don't be hard on the kid guys..” Shedletsky looked down at the boy. “He's been through a lot already.”

There were small mumbles of agreement from his fellow survivors, however one seemed lost in thought. Builderman had a hand covering his mouth as he thought, looking down at the kid.

“Builderman?” Dusekkar looked at his friend, everyone else shifted their attention to the creative. He closed his eyes for a moment before looking at Shedletsky.

“Shedletsky..”

“.. Yes?”

“You.. Knew about him before us? Didn't you?”

Shedletsky blinked, his eyes darting between the kid and Builderman, his smile wobbled.

“Whatta talking about?”

“It only makes sense.. You hiding something… that thing chasing you… you being so adamant on not meeting me after the round yesterday… you knew about him- this whole time and didn't say anything!?” Builderman’s tone got more aggressive the more he spoke, Shedletsky backed up a little, his arm instinctively raising to hide C00lkidd a little.

“Woah builds- I- I don't know where you got that from but I-”

“You're a terrible lying Shedletsky.”

The two stared at each other, before Shedletsky broke the eye contact to look down at C00lkidd, the boy looking up at him with big eyes.

“.. Fine fine- you caught me.. Yes I was with him last round but- can you really blame me!?”

“Why didn't you just tell me!??”

“How was I supposed to explain- there was already so much shit with 07 turning into that thing how could I just randomly drop ‘oh yeah that killer from before? He's on our side now!!’??”

“.. LIKE THAT!?”

“.. Counterpoint- I was stressed the hell out!!”

The two bickered like a old married couple, Dusekkar sighed at his friends antics.

“Both of you quite down.” Dusekkar suddenly seemed to in between the two. “This is childish nonsense, you both are understandable in your actions, but the past is the past now. We shouldn't let this divide us, we must live with it.”

Builderman opened his mouth to speak but Dusekkar staff getting in his face quieted him down, the magician continued.

“Builderman, this argument will not end well for either sides. Shedletsky didn't tell us, but at least he didn't try hiding the child for long, that's all that matters. C00lkidd is here, there's nothing we can do about it, we must treat him like the rest of us.” Dusekkar looked over at the others when he spoke that last scentance, seemingly directing it to them as well.

“... You're right- sorry Matt.. Sorry Shed.” Builderman held his arm, Dusekkar letting out a sigh of relief.

“Don't expect getting off scoff free Shedletsky, you did mess up as well.”

“Yeah yeah whatever..” Shedletsky didn't seem to care much for the magician's warning.

There was a awkward silence, nobody dared speak, the tension still looming in the air.

“... Could I ask..” Noob finally spoke up. “Do you know how you got here?”

“A little…” C00lkidd nodded.

“Do you think you could tell us?”

The kid thought for a moment, before grinning.

“I'll tell you.. Only if I get something to eat!!”

“Hey wait- didn't you use that Shed clone to steal food?” Chance glared at the kid.

“Yea but.. I haven't eaten in some time so..”

Those words hung in the air for a moment, he said it oddly causally, it made everyone uncomfortable the idea The Spectre was starving this child, they had seen his ribcage and bones before but they didn't think much of it.. Since he looked a little pudgy now you could've just suspected he was made that way to look scary but now it seemed more… Sinister.

“... I can make something for you kid-” Elliot spoke awkwardly, quickly heading off towards the cabin. C00lkidd excitedly following, the rest of the group looked between each other before following the two…

“Something new is here.”

It was unnervingly quiet, at first it was nice but now the killers were noticing a certain somebody's absence. They didn't hear the begging and whining to play or a child's make believe from his open window or the sounds of a tantrum just…Silence.

1x enjoyed it at first, it was nice but now… the emptiness was bothering her. Speaking was futile unless necessary without him around, Jason rarely spoke usually mumbling gibberish or grunting, meanwhile John didn't speak period. 1x hated the sound of her voice, too close to her creator it made her metaphorical skin crawl.

Rising from her spot at the fireplace, she glanced t her fellow killers, Jason leaning again a tree while John stared at the poisonous waters. She didn't give much mind to them as she walked away, unsething her sword just in case, no killer had ever caught her off guard before but some have tried to attack.

The dense woods never changed unless something was here, the fog showed that The Spectre was watching, possibility in anticipation of her finding whatever she was sensing.

The rustling of shrubbery caught 1x’s attention, she lifted her sword in a defensive position.. She looks like her creator but she tried to ignore that, inching closer to the bush, lifting it high in the air she slashed it. A screeching out followed suit.

1x looked at the beast, for the first time in awhile she was taken aback.. That was a survivor- or at least.. Used to be.

It was still the same buger hat and blue shirt with that stupid image but now his arms here bulky and clawed like John's, his legs twisted to look like sharp knives, black goo oozed from his eyes and mouth as he snarled and growled like a wild animal, fitting as he was on all fours like a wolf ready to pounce it's pray.

Soon the laughter started, the fog growing denser around the two beasts, one annoyed and the other fearful.

“Spectre..” 1x could feel it's presence behind her.

“Awh I see you met my new toy!” The Spectre grinned sharply.

“What did you do…” 1x couldn't help but feel unnerved looking at the beast. “Where is the child.”

“C00lkidd? I didn't know you cared for him.”

The name made 007n7 growl, leaping towards the figure in the fog, they laughed gleefully as they dodge both that and their chains rattling at the movement.

"̵͇͎̫̌͒̈́̎͆W̴̨̛̝̏͂̕H̵̥̘͊͑̇̎͝Ę̶̞̝̗̈́̒̉Ṟ̶̢̹͂̀ͅḘ̴̺̖̙͒͊̋ ̷̩͎̯͚̜͛͗Ḯ̵͉͍̬̟̂S̶̜͙͉͍̼̿̾̐͌̑ ̶̢̬̠̘͎̿M̵̲͉̲̃Y̸̥̩̲̟͊͊͝ ̷̧̅̏̋̈́̚S̷̤̼̱̀́Õ̶̹̠Ņ̷̧̎ͅ!̴̞̤̈́?̵̹̊̋"̶͓̂̐

The beast snarled, coughing up junk as it spoke, 1x cringed at how he sounded as if it was drowning and the way it coughed and hacked violently.

“Awwwhhh so cute that you care about your wittle boy~” The Spectre cooed. “Don't worry he's safe with your friends! He's already bonded with 1x’s dear old man.”

1x glared at the fog as it cackled, mocking both of them in one sentence. 007n7 growled, leaping towards the fog once again, 1x bended down for 007n7 pounce again as The Spectre danced around dodging the beast's attacks.

“Oh this is so fun!! Is this how the survivors feel? Hmmm~” The Spectre hummed, not caring as the creature tried to attack them.

It eventually fell back into the fog, its figure disappearing but its voice still there.

“1x could you be a dear and show him his new home?”

With that, the fog faded, 1x looked at the beast as it began to let out sobs and chokes. It sounded in pain, 1x approached using her sword to make it look at her.

“You're still conscious.” She stated. “You're not mindless, you're just not in proper control.”

007n7 let out another sob as 1x sneered.

“.. Come.” She walked away, sheathing her sword again.

007n7 looked at the being, he wanted to scream, to run, to hide, he wanted to escape to return home. Hell he'd take being with the survivors than this.

But his body began moving on its own, more sobs leaving his throat.

1x was right, his mind was clear, he was still 007n7 but…

This body was no longer his.

Chapter Text

The silence at the table was deafening. Nobody spoke a word, they were like statues sitting at that godforsaken table, the only person even moving was C00lkidd, happily kicking his feet as he ate some eggs Elliot made, Elliot wasn't the best chef outside of pizza but he was the only person who could cook decently well.

The clock ticking felt like a warning sign even more so than normal, the loud tick. tock. tick. tock. ringing in everyone's ears, Shedletsky heard it ringing louder than everyone else, his eyes glued onto the small child sitting next to him at the table. The time was getting closer, closer to another round in their damnation, this personal hell they share, but all Shedletsky- or really anybody could think about what C00lkidd… How would he react? They know he only sees these rounds as fun games, a twisted game of tag, but now he's in reality, sure he's seen Shedletsky get injured but that was far from the worst thing that could happen in a round.

Time moved forward, they could see the fog approaching on the horizon, another day of playing with their life…

C00lkidd had finished his second breakfast, Shedletsky excused himself to go rinse the plate off for the boy, he dashed to the kitchen. The warm water and soap doing poor job at distracting the sword fighter from his thoughts, he has to take care of that kid… he doesn't want that kid to get hurt in the round, he would never forgive himself if that poor boy had to suffer even one death, he's grown numb to these deaths, so have most others, but a child… that's scar him for life. Even in the rare situation that they could escape this hell, it'd haunt him forever.

The air felt heavy, the steam rising around him, no matter how much Shedletsky scrubbed that feeling still lingered. The plate seemed to disappear in his hands, the steam becoming fog as he heard that wicked cackling.

Blinking, he found himself in that fucking carnival.

C00lkidd doesn't know how he got here.. It wasn't like when The Spectre would lead him to the areas to play, he just blinked and he was there. He as in the C00l Carnival, it was specially designed for him and him alone, it used to give him a happy comforting feeling but now it felt sinister and cold… even looking at the Drakobloxxers next to him made him scared, waiting for it to come alive and devour him.

Making his way out of the exhibit, he found himself alone… At least for now, he knew how small this area was, there was never anybody far… But that also means there's always danger nearby.

He nervously held onto the bottom of his sweater as he walked around, he hoped the seeker wasn't that thing that looked like his dad, maybe if it was one of the others they wouldn't be rough with him. He walked slowly and carefully, trying to make as little noise as possible, he didn't want unwanted attention. He could hear the soft purring of a generator, looking over he could see two people by the ferris wheel.

C00lkidd quickly rushed over to the area, seeing Two Time and Noob working on a generator. Without a word C00lkidd kneeled down to work as well, his hands shaking as he grabbed wires not really knowing what to do exactly.. Sure he partially finished one before but he was mostly guessing and it took him a while, and the seeker this time probably wouldn't be as clueless. The wires were all different bright colors, the noises and sparking made his head spin.

He heard shuffling, making the child tense up before Two Times’ hands were gently placed on his. The cultist guided the kid on what to do, connecting the wires with the same colors showing him the difference between the light blue and dark blue, Noob watched, making sure not to complete the generator too quickly so Two Time could teach him.

They finished the generator, the kids hands recoiling as the side of the generator snapped closed.

“Good job!” Two Time praised, C00lkidd looked up at the other one, it had been so long since he'd heard real praise. Most of Spectre’s praise was fake laced with that gross artificial sugary taste, too sweet that it made your stomach churn and twist.

“We should stay in a group..” Noob said as the three stood up. “That usually makes our survivability higher.”

“It makes your survivability higher dear friend.” Two Time corrected, Noob stuck their tongue out at the other, C00lkidd giggled.

Making their way from the ferris wheel C00lkidd continued looking around, he liked Noob and Two Time but he really wanted to be by Shedletsky… He doesn't know why, he had that similar feeling his papa did. It was comfortable, familiar, and nice.

The loud BANG! of a gun made the survivalist's jump, they had a clear sight on Chance who was dodging, blood spilling on the ground from an apparent flintlock failure, C00lkidd cringed at the sight of so much blood… He could see 1x, ruthlessly chasing down the gambler, her sword swinging at him… this.. This didn't look fun. How come they played tag with him but with everyone else it was like… this?

Two Time and Noob dashed over to hide behind a wall, C00lkidd followed. He pulled up the c00lgui, he peeked over the hiding place, pressing his option to clone Chance. The clone dodged an attack, beginning to run away from the attacker, Chance seemed to stand there for a moment before he bolted in another direction. C00lkidd wishes he ran over to them but he guesses Elliot or Builderman was over there, they can heal too after all…

Two Time held the boy closely, C00lkidd squinting as he controlled the clone, having it weave and dash through the Drakobloxxer exhibit as 1x rushed at it. The gui sputtered and sparked as the clone was killed, making C00lkidd wince a little, he could hear 1x’s angered growling at being deceived.

“Come on..” Noob spoke quietly, slowly getting up. “We shouldn't stay here for long, they'll probably come over there soon.”

Two Time nodded, getting up as well, their hand carefully wrapped around C00lkidd's. The three were slow as they walked, being careful not to be spotted by the killer hunting them, the small noises of a sentry playing on the other side of the map, Two Time lifted the child in the air as they and Noob dashed to where the other survivors were hiding at the left of the entrance.

“There you three are.” Guest said, working on a generator with Elliot and Builderman.

“Many apologies, we seemed to have spawned far from each other.” Two Time responded as they placed C00lkidd on the ground.

“It is rare for everyone to spawn really close.” Elliot mused.

C00lkidd felt oddly awkward,tugging and fidgeting with his sweater, their conversation seemed so adult.. Talking about things C00lkidd didn't really understand.

“Hey kid!” Chance's voice snapped him out of thought, he sat next to a dispenser. “You really saved my ass back there, thanks a bunch.”

C00lkidd grinned, his tag wagging.

“You're welcome!! Oh uhm uhm- I can make you something to help..”

“No need, Buildman dispenser is fine right now, better not waste healing you know.”

“I told you not to call me that.” Builderman grumbled as Chance and C00lkidd laughed.

A harsh scraping noise could be heard, slowly approaching, C00lkidd couldn't help but cover his ears, it hurt. It was so loud it reverberated in his head making it ache.

“It's coming.” Shedletsky spoke firmly as he tightened his grip on his sword, Guest stood by his side and Chance reloaded his gun.

“Don't go and get yourself killed again Sheds..” Builderman murmured, his fellow admin grinned.

“Don't worry Builds! I'll be fine.”

Before another word could be exchanged something dashed towards them, the sentry flaired to life as it began shooting at 1x. One quick slash disposed of it but it still did damage, but that didn't matter as 1x had her eyes on a certain somebody.

Shedletsky knew his creation despised him, how could she not? A child born of hatred, pain, suffering, the admin's previous selfishness led to this. But he's never seen her this… aggressive, this full of hatred and disdain for his existence. There was a new form of rage in her eyes.

1x attacked her creator, Shedletsky hissed in pain before slashing his attacker. Builderman grabbed his friends hand before everyone scattered, Noob, Elliot, and Two Time running off together, Guest, Chance, and Dusekkar ran as well but not as far so they could help deal with 1x as well. Shedletsky, Builderman, and C00lkidd huddled together as they ran towards the prize corner.

Shedletsky gripped at his wound, pulling out his chicken to heal himself. He was grumbling slightly as he ate, he froze slightly as he felt somebody snuggle up closely, looking down his gaze softened as C00lkidd hugged his side.

“Are you okay…?” C00lkidd's eyes were big and wet, Shedletsky felt his heart ache at the sight.

“Yeah yeah, don't worry about me kiddo, I know what I'm doing..”

C00lkidd nodded a little, continuing to cling to him, Shedletsky wanted to push him away- if 1x snuck up on them he could easily get hurt as well but… he couldn't say no to that poor face, he's absolutely terrified.

He could hear Builderman building another sentry, mumbling something to himself as he built, the noises of a gun and 1x’s growling made it obvious that she was distracted. Shedletsky glanced down at C00lkidd, gently patting his head and ruffling his hair.

“Hey kiddo.. Everything's fi-”

Of course now would be the time for 1x to bring her focus back on him, Shedletsky gagged as he felt the poisonous wave hit his body. Builderman cursed as his newly built sentry was just destroyed. C00lkidd yelped, summoning a candy bar and shoving it in Shedletsky's hands, he quickly ate it just in time for 1x to round the corner her sword high in the air. Shedletsky acted first, stunning the creature as he stepped back a little.

“Builderman! Take C00lkidd and run!!”

Builderman nodded, grabbing the kids hand and running as fast as he could, C00lkidd whined.

“W-wait!! What if he-”

“He'll be fine! Come on-”

The two ducked into the van, Builderman pressing a finger to his lips to shush C00lkidd not like he needed to anyway.

1x was focused on her goal, she wanted Shedletsky dead. More than she usually does, Shedletsky was tricky even with his sword on cool down he was quick on his feet, fitting for the creator of SFOTH. However 1x knew his downfall, he's cocky, if she can just dodge once he'll be all hers rip apart.

She ducked as Chance shot at her, Shedletsky used this to try and attack, their swords clashed as 1x pushed him backwards onto the van. Shedletsky huffed, dodging before 1x’s sword could pierce him, but a Mass Infection hit him again causing him to yelp in pain.

“Goddamnit-” shedletsky murmured under his breath as he limped. “The fuck did I do to you this time-”

Usually 1x doesn't give her creator the blessing of a response, she knows he's just messing with her trying to grind her gears so she gets sloppy and he can escape. Her hand quivered slightly, her face grimacing as she growled.

“You replaced me.”

Shedletsky didn't get a moment to debuttle, to say some cocky line before she dashed at him, he hopped backwards. His eyes flickers towards C00lkidd and Builderman, he didn't get a chance to yell at them to run, to tell Builderman to cover the kids eyes before he was lifted into the air-

SNAP.

C00lkidd stared in horror at Shedletsky, that guttural breaking noise reverberating in his ears. The body flopped to the floor, unmoving, his eyes slightly glazed over. C00lkidd seen those eyes before…

He's dead.

He remembers it so vividly yet clear as day, his dad was walking him home from school C00lkidd busy telling him all about this art project they were doing in class that day. His dad randomly stopped, their neighbors house was surrounded by people, that nice old lady who would bring C00lkidd cookies every weekend and would treat him and his dad so kindly laid on the concrete. Her glazed over eyes staring right into his.

His dad pulled him away from the crowd, turning around telling him they were going to get something to eat. He didn't understand, his dad looked so scared and nervous, it made C00lkidd really sad seeing his dad like that.

“Is she gonna be okay daddy?” C00lkidd spoke so innocently, looking up at his dad with big eyes.

“... No.” He spoke calmly and softly. “She's dead kiddo.”

“What does that mean?”

“Death is… A complicated thing..” His father took on a shaky breath. “Sometimes it's a nice thing, you're taken away by Telamon to a nicer place, sometimes it's… not so much. Taken too soon, but still you find yourself in that nice place no matter the hardships.” 007n7 tried to explain it the best he could, speaking about death to a six year old wasn't something he wanted to do today.

“... Did she die happily?”

“.. We can only hope so.”

C00lkidd remembers that day, death was a weird thing, he never thought much about it until right this moment. Those wide glazed over eyes, Shedletsky was dead. The kid couldn't stop staring, couldn't blink, their eyes locked into a staring contest C00lkidd wanted to run from.

1x looked towards the child, her eyes were enraged, C00lkidd didn't know what he had done to upset her so greatly…

Builderman’s arms wrapped around the kid, 1x letting out a harsh yelp as he kicked the being with all his might. He hopped out the van and rushed off, holding C00lkidd close to his chest, C00lkidd however still had his eyes glued on the body of the sword fighter.

This wasn't fun. Why did The Spectre call this a game? This was scary… was… was his games of tag like this?

C00lkidd felt his world beginning to crumble. Was he doing the same thing? Hunting everyone down for sport? They weren't playing were they? The Spectre lied. Just like they lied about this. This isn't fun, this is scary, this is painful. The kid let out a choked out sob as he gripped onto the jacket of the man running at high speeds.

Builderman hid them again, C00lkidd didn't know where they were, he didn't care. His mind fogged, he could almost hear that manic laughter taunting him from the beyond, he was tricked.

He could hear everything now, the screaming of somebody getting hurt, the gushing of blood, the snapping of somebody's neck just like Shedletsky. Tears blurred his vision, his head spinning, what was happening? Why was this happening?? He curled up closer to the mechanic, squeezing his eyes closed.

The arms wrapped around him seemed to have disappeared.

He opened his eyes, he was back at the table.

The winners table has a sizable amount this round: Builderman, Dusekkar, Noob, Guest, and of course C00lkidd.

After a moment Builderman rose from his seat, going to the main room, everyone else followed… but not C00lkidd, his eyes wide and full of fear. Elliot, Two Time, Chance, Shedletsky did they… are they not coming back? Are they gone forever?

The child's breath became shaky, his body quivering before a certain voice snapped him out of it.

…

“Builds I'm fine!!” Shedletsky pouted at his friend fussing over him.

“I watched you die Sheds, of course I'm gonna be worried about you!!” Builderman took a step away from fellow admin. “You haven't done that poorly in a while..”

“Yeah you got your ass kicked pretty hard.” Chance added, rubbing salt in the wound.

“You died too, asshole.” Shedletsky rolled his eyes.

“I only died because I was being heroic and cool.”

“Your flintlock blew up.”

“Same thing.” Chance flicked Elliot on the forehead before returning to his coin flipping.

“What about you two?” Builderman tilted his head.

“Well.. After Chance blew himself up, 1x caught us off guard and well… you know.” Elliot tapped his fingers together.

“Not the worst round we've had.” Builderman sighed. “Next time don't die first Sheds.”

“You say that like I wanted to!!” Shedletsky grimaced slightly, making Builderman laugh.

They had all gotten used to dying, it was strange being able to talk about the topic so calmly even joking slightly with others about their own demise. It gets reversed after all, it's barely something to fear here, most have gotten numb to the pain at this point.

All but one of course.

The loud ear piercing wailing startled everyone, even folks like Dusekkar and Two Time jumped at the noise. Shedletsky hadn't heard a child's crying in so long, especially not one so full of pain.

He spun around, seeing C00lkidd standing in the doorway of the dining room, tears falling down his cheeks and staining the wooden floorboards. Shedletsky felt his body trembling, that noise was so familiar it hurt, he could feel the tears forming in his own eyes.

Shedletsky dashed towards the child, skidding to a halt as he fell to his knees in front of C00lkidd, quickly squeezing the kid close to him.

“Hey, hey hey!! Hey you're okay… you're okay…Don't cry…” Shedletsky’s voice quivered and cracked ever so slightly.

“I DON'T WANNA PLAY ANY MOREEEE!!!” C00lkidd bawled, his little fists hitting Shedletsky's shoulder as hard as he could. It didn't make him flinch, but his grip tightened on the sobbing child. “I DON'T WANNA!! THIS ISN'T FUN!!”

“It's okay…” Shedletsky did his best to calm the kid, rubbing circles in his back. “You're okay..”

“T-they lied to me.. *hic* I- I don't like playing- did- *hic* did the games always hurt like this…?” C00lkidd hiced and sobbed. “I- I just wanted to play tag!! I didn't wanna hurt nobody…”

“Hey kiddo it's alright… you didn't do anything.” Shedletsky lied through his teeth, but anything to help him calm down.

“But- but- but you got really- hurt and- and-” C00lkidd choked out another sob, he was barely cohesive now his words slurring together as he tried to speak.

“Kiddo it's alright, it's okay… look look- I'm fine!! I'm all okay- you don't gotta worry about me okay? I know how to take care of myself, those guys can't keep me or anybody else down!” He pulled the kid away from him a little, giving the kid a grin. “So don't you go worrying your little head about us alright? We'll be okay at the end of the day…”

“But.. But it was- was so scary..”

“... I know kiddo..” Shedletsky pulled him back into a hug. “I know..”

Shedletsky held the kid tight, comforting the kid the best he could, C00lkidd eventually slumped over, soft snoring coming from the kid. Poor boy had passed out from his exhaustion, Shedletsky carefully lifted him into the air. He wordlessly left the main cabin, he could feel everyone's eyes on him as he left.

He was careful as he went to his cabin, tucking C00lkidd into the bed. He sat at the edge just like earlier, it had only been one day. Shedletsky put his hands over his face, if just one day like this was so sad, how long could he handle this… what'll happen when he eventually gets dangerously hurt or even killed in a round, at least before he thought it was a game but now he knows the ugly truth , and it was heartbreaking.

Shedletsky couldn't handle it, a few sobs escaped his throat. He tried so hard to not cry, to not break down right next to the kid.

A small knock on the door echoed in the cabin, he took a deep breath before getting up to open the door. Builderman stood there, a worried expression on his face.

“Hey…” He sounded calm and soft. “You.. Doing alright?”

Shedletsky stood there silently, looking at his old friend, he awkwardly opened and closed his mouth a few times. Then tears.

How long has it been since he cried? How long has it been since he cried in front of another person? He didn't know, but the tears flowed down his face so naturally.

Builderman opened his arm for a hug, Shedletsky took it, squeezing his friend tightly. They didn't speak to each other, they didn't need any comforting words or other actions, just each other's presence was enough…

Chapter Text

C00lkidd barely slept, he still felt exhausted as he woke up with a splitting headache from how hard he was sobbing earlier. He blinked for a moment while looking around the cabin, Shedletsky was nowhere to be seen, the admin seemingly to have left him alone here to sleep.

Without much to do the kid hopped off of the bed, he wondered what the survivors do in their free time, C00lkidd used to play games with the others when they weren't doing… what they did to the survivors, sometimes The Spectre would even join in! It was fun.. But now those memories felt tainted, making his stomach twist at just the thought.

The cabin door creaked open as C00lkidd stepped out, the cold air making him shiver. He wonders where the others are, are they doing okay?

He cautiously made his way to the main cabin, he could hear small chatter from inside. He cracked the door open, peeking inside he could see Elliot, Noob, and Chance all sitting on the couch together, he knows it's not a very good thing to listen in on other people's conversations but C00lkidd felt his legs lock up.

“..I mean that doesn't mean we can't be worried for him.” Elliot's spoke, his voice full of worry. “You know how Shedletsky gets when he's emotional.”

“Ell come on, you're just being a worry wart, he'll be fine.” Chance flipped his coin, Elliot gave them an annoyed scowl.

“Hopefully he'll be fine next round.. I'd hate to see him in that state when he's in danger.” Noob fidgeted awkwardly with their sleeve.

“It'll be okay, you two.” Chance paused his coin flipping if only for a moment. “Sides- he's with Buildman right now, that guy knows how to cheer him up real quick!”

“It's been at least an hour by now…” Elliot murmured, tapping their mouth with their finger.

C00lkidd just stared at the group, trying to process that information.. What's wrong with Shedletsky? Is he okay? Did something happen to him? C00lkidd softly whined as he thought about all the bad stuff that could've happened to the man.

“Are you alright child?”

The kid jolted at Two Time's sudden voice, looking up at that unnerving smiling face.. Two Time always kinda scared him, that grin looked strained and they smiled even at the strangest times. Their hands were gently clasped behind their back.

“Apologies for scaring you, but I wanted to check in..” Two Time's smile widened. “If you wish, I could accompany you inside.”

C00lkidd looked down, nervously looking at the floor before glancing up at the cultist, nodding slightly.

“Splendid!”

Two Time opened the door, standing aside so C00lkidd could walk inside. The three at the couch gave the two small smiles of hello.

“Hey kid.. You doing okay?” Chance spoke, giving a caring look at the child.

C00lkidd nodded slightly, he could feel the air filling with nervousness, the kid began getting anxious.. Did his presence upset everyone? Did they not like him? Did-

“We should do something!” Two Time clapped their hands together, their smile widening. “We shouldn't waste the day away just lazing around.” They looked down at the child for a moment before returning their gaze to the other adults.

“What should we do?” Elliot asked.

“Oh! We should play a game!! That'd be fun!”

Everyone seemed to agree, but C00lkidd felt nervous.. His head fogged as it felt like a hand began creeping up his neck. That twisted laugh playing in the back of his mind, whispering woes in his ears… “What if you hurt people again?” , he could feel everyone's eyes on him, talking amongst each other.

“.. I've got spare cards in my pockets, we could play a card game or somethin’.. How about blackjack?” Chance's words made C00lkidd think.. A card game sounds nice.

“Should we really be teaching the kid that..?”

“Eh he'll be fine!!” Chance waved Elliot's worries away. “Plus we don't gotta be betting or nothing, how does that sound kid?”

C00lkidd nodded, Chance grinned.

“Alright!! Let me explain the rules to ya..”

Shedletsky leaned against the wall, his eyes transfixed on the bright ceiling lamp, it creaked and swung rhythmically, making the man standing underneath it be shrouded in shadows or look like some divine being. The soft humming of Dusekkar and the rustling of papers from Builderman being the only noise the sword fighter could hear.

“Geez, 07 has so much stuff..” Builderman murmured to himself. Shedletsky didn't know what was happening, why Builderman was snooping through all of 07’s belongings.

Shedletsky hasn't dissociated this badly since… The incident. He shivered at the thought, trying to push it down as far as he could, seeing C00lkidd sobbing already brung up memories he didn't need to start remembering even more shit and crying again.

He felt a hand on his shoulder, glancing over he saw Dusekkar’s hand gently placed but his head still focused on Builderman.

Pity.

Dusekkar isn't good with emotions, he knows that, but it makes his stomach twist whenever he gets such… pity. He doesn't need to be pitied. It makes him think of that time, the worst time of his life… Stop thinking of it, Shedletsky. Stop it.

Builderman’s eyes focused on a random piece of paper, a small hummus coming from his mouth. He stashed the paper in his jacket before returning to looking through items.

“What are you doing..?” Shedletsky finally asked.

“I'm trying to see if there's any explanation on… what happened with 07 and C00lkidd.” Builderman has no tone in his voice, or at least Shedletsky doesn't recognize anything. It's blank and forward, no trace of worry or concern.

Dusekkar said something but Shedletsky didn't care, their conversation getting drowned out by the ringing in his ears.

“What are you all doing?” Guest raised an eyebrow, walking from the downstairs area seeing the group sitting on the floor of the cabin.

“Blackjack.” Chance said, skimming his cards. “Wanna join?”

Guest shrugged, sitting down in between Noob and C00lkidd, glancing down at the kid before looking back at the game. There was an obvious silence in the room, it felt heavy in the air, anybody could see the nervousness in most of their eyes.

“.. I have an idea!” Elliot blurted out. “We should tell each other stories, so it's not so… you know.” He bit his lip awkwardly after he finished.

“Are you trying to distract us so you can finally win a game?” Chance teased, making the three other players laugh and Elliot pout. “But it's not a bad idea, we haven't told any stories in a long while..”

“What should our topic be?” Two Time tilted their head.

Everyone stayed quiet for a moment before Noob piped up.

“How about some happy memories? You know, nice stories and the like..” Noob mused, it was met with a unanimous agreement.

“I can start!” Chance raised his hand, a grin spreading across his face. “You guys wanna hear the story how me and my buddy tricked the mafia?”

“Dude they said happy stories..” Elliot mumbled, making a few people giggle.

“Wha- hey! It is happy!!” Chance argued.

“Can somebody else but Chance tell a story?” Guest huffed, cracking a small smile as Chance gasped in annoyed shock.

“How about C00lkidd tell us one? He is new after all.”

Two Time had everyone's attention now on the boy, his hands now clutching tighter on the playing cards in his hands. His eyes darted quickly to the floor.

“Uhm.. Okay..”

“You don't have to if you don't wanna!” Noob spoke kindly but C00lkidd shook his head showing them it was okay.

C00lkidd tapped his chin as he thought, he had a lotta stories.. Maybe he could talk about when he messed with the pizza place! Wait no- Elliot wouldn't like that.. Maybe he could tell a story about him and his dad or- would that just make everyone all sad? It took a while for C00lkidd to finally settle on a story to tell.

“Uhmm..” C00lkidd finally decided on something. “Uh- o-one time me and papa were goin’ to visit one of his friends.” He spoke softly, shyness in his voice.

“That guy has friends?” Chance piped up, yelping when Elliot aggressively elbowed him.

“We were in a bit of a rush to get there so papa forgot a few things.. Everything was fine until we got home and papa realized.. He forgot the house key inside!” C00lkidd grinned at the memory. “Papa was trying to get inside but all our windows were locked too!!”

A few people laughed at the story, making his smile widen.

“I'm guessing you got inside eventually?” Two Time hummed.

“Mhm.. But papa got the cops called on us because our neighbors just saw a guy climbing through my bedroom window!!” C00lkidd smiled at everyone's laughter at the idea, he held his cards close to himself as he giggled himself.

“You and your dad seem like you have had quite the life knowing his stories..” Noob said, trying quite down their own giggling. C00lkidd just nodded at their comment.

Elliot went next, telling everyone the story of a rouge customer (that wasn't C00lkidd for once) that wouldn't stop delivering just to try and convince Elliot to give them free food until they tried destroying the restaurant itself. Then Noob told the story of them and their best friend stealing from their local mall, getting caught and having to run from the mall police for three hours straight and somehow didn't get banned for life.

C00lkidd was having fun!! He didn't know dad's friends we're so fun, even somebody as stoic and scary as Guest told lighthearted story's of his daughter, how she tried making dinner for him and his wife and made absolute charcoal they forced themselves to eat. He giggled and smiled at everyone's stories, that fear and anxiety melting away to a warm feeling in his chest one he hasn't felt since his and Bluudud's last playdate before he was brought here by the Spectre. Even that name couldn't waver his joy in this moment.

He felt like he fit in with the crowd.

Staring off into the water Shedletsky payed no attention to Builderman or Dusekkar, the former pacing back and forth on the docks as the latter tried to calm him down. His reflection stared back at him, unblinking eyes looking into the deepest parts of his soul as if judging… his reflection didn't look like his anymore.

Maybe it was because he was staring for too long, but the way it squinted at him confirmed that there was something wrong with it. His hand hovered where his sword usually was, maybe he thought hard enough it would manifest in his hands.

“Shedletskyyyyy~” The Spectre's voice was taunting, distain obvious in its voice. The false reflection gave him that creepy grin, the admin didn't say a single word, making them huff slightly.

“I didn't know you liked kids so much!! Considering your last one went so bad I thought you soured on them entirely!” They let out that giddy laugh that turned into hacking and weezing. “Anywho… you've got my interest, taking care of that boy and all.. Are you sure you even have what it takes?”

Shedletsky blinked, narrowing his eyes at the thing but still not speaking. He didn't want to give it the satisfaction of a response, plus he didn't want Builder or Matt thinking he was crazy or anything. The Spectre rolled their eyes.

“UGH! Give me something chicken boy!! You people get soooo annoying like this…” they pouted before shaking their head. “Whatever. I've got another play thing to attend to.. You've grinded her gears pretty good I'll tell you what!”

“Just keep your eyes out for C00lkidd… you can't keep him forever.”

The Spectre disappeared with those last words, the watery reflection returning to normal plain ole Shedletsky.. He wonders exactly what they mean by that, it could mean a plethora of possibilities. Whatever, he didn't want to think on it too hard or else he'd spiral again.

His mind blurred slightly, blinking as he heard Builderman and Dusekkar’s conversation getting serious. What were they even talking about? He didn't know, he didn't care, he just wanted to know if-

“YOU FUCKING CHEATER!!!”

The voice from the cabin startled the three admins, it was most definitely Chance's voice. The three gave each other glances before dashing towards the main cabin, they could hear the angry shouting and slamming on the floorboards, Builderman swung the door open with a panicked expression the other two peaking out behind him.

“What happened!?” Builderman spoke loud and firmly but it didn't seem like anybody payed him much mind.

Two Time and Chance were in the floor, shoving and rolling around with angry expressions.. Playful angry expressions that is, the other four sat near each other laughing at their play fighting.

“It's not my fault you suck at your own game!” Two Time taunted, kicking Chance off of them before he tackled them again.

“I'm just sayin’ it's suspicious that you won EVERY MATCH!!” Chance's voice seemed angry but they genuine smile showed that he didn't feel too upset about it. “You haven't even played before!!”

“Then how could I cheat so well if I don't know any tricks?” Two Time giggled, scuttling away as they escaped Chance's grasp. They ran upstairs, Chance chasing them as the two laughed.

The three admins stepped inside, the three standing there confused. Shedletsky couldn't help but look down at the laughing survivors, Guest trying so hard to contain himself, Elliot and Noob both giggling up a storm, and C00lkidd laughing as he layed on the floor kicking his little feet in the air.

“What… happened?” Dusekkar looked down at the others.

“Blackjack.” Guest said, his voice wavering as he tried not to laugh. “Chance is being a sore loser.”

The two returned, Chance falling off the railing on the upstairs as Two Time leaped at him. Slamming them both down, they continued fighting like puppies would , it was amusing. Shedletsky couldn't help but chuckle at the sight, his spirits raising rapidly.

They eventually chased each other into the dining room, shouting nonsense at each other. Builderman shook his head, following the two to try and stop their roughhousing, Dusekkar let out a sigh placing a hand on his face.

It had been awhile since the cabin seemed so.. Lively in a way, usually when they were gathered it was a calm happiness, only small chattering between those who considered each other friends more than allies. However right now was one of the rare instances of them fully forgetting their circumstances, being able to laugh and find joy in the now.

“Do you guys have room for more people?” Shedletsky asked, sitting down next to the fallen over C00lkidd.

“Well those two are unavailable so..” Noob giggled, hearing Builderman scolding the two like children as they continued to bicker with one another.

Shedletsky grinned as Elliot started up another game, he looked down at the kid pulling him up so he could sit properly. His eyes softened looking at the boy, seemingly forgetting everything that happened last round.. Of course he knows he can never forget, he still remembers the first time seeing somebody dead- Builderman’s guttural scream as he was torn apart by John Doe would haunt him for all eternity…

He shook his head, forcing the thought out of his mind and focusing on what's in front of him right now, a bunch of smiling people is more important right now… Shedletsky couldn't help but smile himself.

Snapping wood and the harshness of poison bleeding into the broken door frame was all 1x could focus on as she slashed and stabbed at it. Her breathing haggard and rough, nobody knows what happened to her, she returned from a match with furry in her eyes that no killer wanted to deal with. So she took her anger out in other ways, ways that she KNEW helped it.

Why was she feeling this way?? Why should she care what her creator does? It doesn't matter. Not at all. She doesn't care, she shouldn't care. It's none of her concern whatsoever-

"̵A̶r̷e̸ ̴y̵o̸u̵ ̸o̷k̵a̵y̷?̷"̷

1x turned to look at the creature, she's shocked at how it's still able to speak, voice trying to mimic being soft and gentle mixed with hacking up goo afterwards. She glared at him for a moment.

“Why do you care?” She scoffed.

It whined, furrowing its brow at show annoyance. It tried to stand, struggling as it wobbled slightly, its sharp mantis legs showing difficulty it had yet to master. 1x couldn't help but snort slightly at the pathetic sight, a beast unable to control its own body, how will it even be able to kill a single soul?

It approached her, leaning down to meet her eyes. 1x couldn't not notice how it towered over her, not that she was intimidated in any fashion, just an acknowledgement.

"̴Y̷o̸u̵ ̶s̵e̸e̵m̵ ̸t̴e̵n̶s̴e̸.̶.̸.̸"̷

1x gritted her teeth, was it mocking her? Mocking her for her creator caring about his child more than he could ever his own creation? The same one that he birthed from his own flesh and blood?... Why was she thinking this? She's surely losing her mind…

“None of your concern beast.” She groaned, the thing frowned at her filled with disappointment. “Leave me alone.” she hissed.

"̶T̸h̴e̶r̸e̶'̴s̷ ̶s̷o̴m̶e̶t̵h̸i̴n̶g̷ ̸w̷r̷o̵n̴g̷.̵.̵ ̴I̷ ̷c̴a̴n̷-̵"̸

Before it could finish, 1x raised her smaller swords for entanglement, throwing them at the beast. It yelped, dodging out of the way landing on all fours like a kicked puppy. She gritted her teeth again, annoyance on her face, but that didn't seem to deter it as it began approaching her again. She lifted a sword in the air again before-

…

Warmth.

Even though this thing is heavily leaning on her, it was still a warm comfortable attempt at a hug. It had been so long since 1x felt this way, when was the last time her creator held her? Patted her back and told her it'd all be okay? It was a foreign concept, it seems, comfort, a being made up of pure hatred, agony, and guilt wasn't something that needed comfort. But here it was receiving it.

… Why was she crying like a damn baby?

Chapter Text

Shedletsky nervously leaned on the wall, glancing out the window at the approaching fog. The Spectre was taunting them today, being slow dragging out how long it takes to get into a round. It's odd, is there a pattern they just haven't noticed? Who knows…

Nobody else seemed to care however, the energy from yesterday didn't falter at all during the night. Everyone was still chatting and joking with one another, Shed could vaguely hear the noise of Chance blabbering on some story about his weird life. Normally Shed would be with the group but this anxious feeling bubbling inside him, an unnerving feeling creeping up his neck making it difficult to breathe properly.

He forced his eyes away from the window towards the others, all of them laughing and smiling as if they weren't stuck in purgatory…

“Hey.”

Shedletsky jolted at Builderman’s voice, placing a hand on his shoulder, giving him a nice smile.

“Just wanted to check on ya..” His voice was gentle and caring.

“Yeah yeah I'm fine” Shedletsky crosses his arms, looking back at his friend. “Just.. Thinking.”

Builderman nodded, glancing at the window.

“The round’s starting soon..” He murmured, his smile shifting for a moment before he focused on Shedletsky again. “Try not to die so quickly this time.”

“Hey!-” Shed huffed, Builderman laughing softly at his friends' annoyance.

Before he could rebuttal anymore his vision fogged, he let out a sharp exhale as he slowly blinked as he found himself in another game…

C00lkidd blinked slowly, whimpering as he found himself alone in Yorick's Resting Place. He dragged his feet slowly as he walked around the graveyard area, his body trembling, he quickly decided to get himself distracted with a nearby generator. His hands moved quicker than before, being able to complete it all by himself!! He smiled in pride.

He made his way to another generator, noticing Elliot hard at work on it already. C00lkidd felt nervous around the pizza boy, he wasn't very nice to him before after all… but hopefully he'll be okay with him helping. He knelt down working on the other side from him, his hands fiddling with the wires inside more nervously than he did before.

Soon enough the generator was finished, Elliot stood up straight taking notice of the kid across from him. C00lkidd looked up at him with big eyes, Elliot couldn't help but feel bad for him.

“Uhm.. Do you want to stay with me for the round, kid?” Elliot fidgeted with his sleeve, C00lkidd smiled brightly reaching a hand out to him. The two held hands carefully as they walked together looking for anybody else.

There wasn't any noise, nothing to tell who the killer was. Elliot made sure C00lkidd stayed close to him, ducking and weaving behind walls until they made their way to the mansion.. Surely there must be somebody else inside. Elliot cautiously made sure there was no Digital Footprint at the entrance, after confirming there wasn't any he rushed them inside. He'd yet to see anybody's outlines so nobody's in immediate danger yet.

“Where is everybody..?” C00lkidd mumbled.

“No idea- I'm sure they're fine.” Elliot replied, giving him a quick grin.

Sudden footsteps startled them both, Elliot pulling C00lkidd close, pressing up against the wall next to the door. He made sure his breathing was soft, barely noticeable as the footsteps got closer obviously outside.

"̸H̶e̸l̵l̷o̶.̵.̸?̷ ̵A̸n̸y̷b̵o̴d̸y̵.̴.̷?̸"̵

Elliot took a sharp inhale, that voice. That soft anxious voice corrupted and twisted to make his spin tingle. He cautiously looked outside, biting his lip at the sight of the twisted 007n7.

It was still as intimidating as the first round he saw it in, he wanted so badly to believe that it was just a mirage, a fake version of their old teammate made just to scare them into submission but watching it move… Elliot couldn't convince himself of that anymore.

The way its shoulders sag trying so hard to make itself smaller, its long claws clumsily fidgeting with themselves occasionally moving up to push up glasses that weren't actually there. It had all of 007n7’s quirks and movements patterns, that was their old teammate genuinely changed.. Their friend twisted into a disgusting beast.

Elliot watched it wander aimlessly for a moment before it began to make its way towards the house- shit. He quickly picked up C00lkidd, moving away from the door trying to hide. Its sharp footsteps clicking harshly against the floorboards, its haggard breathing sometimes interrupted with harsh coughs made Elliot shutter.

The shadow of 007n7 came into view, Elliot quickly got up, shuffling them to the dining hall, his grip on C00lkidd’s hand got tighter as he did so. He gritted his teeth as he heard a small noise come from 007n7 as if he heard them, quickly Elliot bolted out the back door dragging C00lkidd behind him. He turned the corner of the house, hearing that thing call his name as they ran down the slopes towards it, his legs moving as fast as they could towards the bridge. Suddenly his movement was cut short by his feet stopping, looking down he saw his feet stuck inside that tar like substance that 007n7 coughed up.

He glanced down at C00lkidd, who was staring at the tar in shock. Elliot twisted his body the best he could, then hoisted C00lkidd in the air and placed him on the other side. He could feel that things eye’s on him from the house.

“Go-” Elliot's voice came out sharply and rough, just like it did back when C00lkidd got in trouble for hacking his job. “Don't worry about me, just run!”

C00lkidd paused for a moment, his eyes flickering towards the movement of the creature coming from the house before his legs finally decided to move. He squeezed his eyes tightly as he ran back towards the graveyard, his body shuddering as he heard Elliot yelp in pain followed quickly by a gunshot from Chance.

His body trembled as he took in gasps of air, his throat dry and painful but he paid little attention to it at the moment. He huddled himself in a small nook behind the cemetery's walls, taking notice of one of Builderman’s dispensers standing next to him. He slid down the wall as he rested his legs, trying to ignore the noises of fighting only a short distance away from him. He pulls his legs against his chest, rocking himself back and forth as he whimpers softly, he's not used to being alone like this…

After a few seconds he pushed himself off the ground, he had to help everyone, he can't just cry in a corner the whole time… What if they need his abilities? Slowly he crept his way out from his hiding spot, noticing Guest and Shedletsky running circles around the creature, C00lkidd shivered slightly seeing it again.

He quickly made his way to a safe spot, peeking behind a wall as he watched them circle him while occasionally stunning it as well. C00lkidd's eyes laid on Guest, blood trickling down his chin as he huffed clearly exhausted, he pulled up his panel trying to wave him over in his direction to get his attention. Once the soldier's eyes met his, he gave the child a small nod silently allowing him to do this thing. C00lkidd stuck his tongue out while focusing, cloning Guest and letting it continue to circle, he heard the footsteps of the real Guest approach him, pressing the other button he summoned a candy bar for the man watching as he ate it in one bite.

C00lkidd shuddered as the clone disappeared, hearing a small whining noise come from the creature. Guest quickly re-entered the fight, clapping his hands to get its attention fully on him and leading it farther away due to Shedletsky’s depleting health bar. Shedletsky hid, doing a quick double take as he realized C00lkidd was standing there next to him, he pulled out one of his chicken legs and began to bite it.

“That thing doesn't really know what he's doin’ huh..” Shedletsky mumbled to himself, glancing downwards towards the child again. “You holding up okay buddy?” He asked, loud enough for the kid to hear him.

“Mhm..” C00lkidd nodded. “Did you see Mr. Elliot?” His big, slightly glossy eyes met Shedletsky’s.

“Yep! Don't you worry your little head about it, he's fine.” Shedletsky forced a grin, trying not to show his dishonesty on his face, truth be told 007n7 has hunted down the pizza boy and swiftly killed him gurgling something about his son. C00lkidd smiled while wagging his tail, hope glimmering in his eyes, Shedletsky felt pain in his chest at the fact he lied so easily to such an innocent face but it had to be done.

Wiping his face from the chicken grease, he sighed as he felt his health go up.

“You wanna come with me kiddo?” He smiled, putting his hand out. “We've got people to help after all.”

C00lkidd glanced down at his hand before taking it, Shedletsky had a protective hold on the child's hand as he led them out his head swiftly looking around to see where anybody was. Eventually his eyes focused on the silhouette of 007n7 and Noob by the house, muttering a small curse as the two made their way towards the two.

Shedletsky kept C00lkidd behind a pillar before dashing towards the killer, his sword making contact with the killers body as it let put a loud gurgly scream, Shedletsky gestured Noob towards the pillar C00lkidd was hiding behind, they muttered a small “thank you” before running over hiding just in time for 007n7 to regain himself. Shedletsky put on his confident grin as the beast growled as dashed towards him, swiping at him in an attempt to hurt him which he quickly dodged.

Noob and C00lkidd hid behind the pillar, the child impatiently waiting as his cooldown ticked downwards. Noob gave him a nervous look.

“You don't gotta heal me ya know..” They said, C00lkidd looked up at them confused. “I mean- Builder’s still alive! He's gotta have a dispenser somewhere right..”

C00lkidd thought for a moment before gasping as he remembered.

“I saw one at the graveyard!” C00lkidd whispered shouted.

Noob nodded. “Okay! Your healing is better used for Shedletsky and the other sentinels.. I'll be seeing you!” they grinned before bolting, hoping 007n7 didn't see them, thankfully he didn't.

C00lkidd peaked behind his hiding spot, watching as Shedletsky dodged attack after attack with a cocky grin on his face the whole time. It was almost like a dance routine in C00lkidd’s head, clumsy yet elegant at the same time, done a thousand times over yet never quite perfect no matter how hard you try. A part of him tried to forget about the death game, the silly image in his head of his dad and Shedletsky dancing together as they smiled and laughed, C00lkidd watching from the couch paying more attention to them instead of the cartoon on television.

The harsh scream from Shedletsky snapped him out of that fantasy, wincing as he remembered he has a job to do. He pulled up his panel again, clicking on the clone button again watching as the Shedletsky clone moved to continue distracting. The real Shedletsky ducking into the house to eat his other chicken leg to recover.

007n7 slashed at the clone, watching it disintegrate , growling once it did. Loud coughs sputtered from its mouth as it looked around, his bright red eyes landing directly on C00lkidd. He hoped that thing didn't see him, but the fact it was slowly moving towards his direction proved otherwise.

"̴͔̽c̷̛͇0̸̫́0̸̪̎l̸̯̓k̵̥̆i̴̙͘d̶̨̈́d̵͕̓.̶̩͑.̵̳̉.̵̧̏?̸͉̕"̵̜̈́

The child's chest heaved as his breathing got quicker, the distorted glitchy voice tried to sound nice and gentle but it failed miserably. C00lkidd's legs wobbled but he forced himself to dash off, running onto the bridge away from him, the creature whined.

"̴̨͐K̴̲̃-̴̩̔k̵͕͊ȋ̵̝d̸̹̕d̵̗͂o̷̪͗ ̸̼͠g̷̲̽ë̸̘́t̶͎̑ ̴̛̤b̶͓̈́ả̴͙c̶̰͝k̸̹̄ ̷̘̀h̷̗̚ë̸͕́ȓ̸͎ë̸̟!̵͌͜!̴͙̈́!̶̥̆"̷̗̎

Despite the creature calling for him C00lkidd didn't pause, he continued running, the thing running closely behind him. Just as the case began, Shedletsky exited the house again, his eyes widening seeing 007n7 hot on C00lkidd's tail. He ran after them, trying to get as close as he could behind 007n7.

“Come on come on- BEHIND YOU!!” Shedletsky yelled. “ FOCUS ON ME NOT HIM!!!” His breath ragged as 007n7 ignored his calls.

C00lkidd felt himself slowly down as his stamina reached dangerously low, he heard commotion towards the graveyard, the other survivors' voices sounding like a breath of fresh air. He tried to force himself to get there, his body trembling from how much he was pushing it to move, his vision blurred with tears. He felt that thing drawing closer and closer, it's arm stretching out towards him.

"̴̲͛Ĉ̵̺0̷̦͗͂͜0̶̡͒L̴̛̥K̴̢̤̃͋I̶̭͊̐D̶̟̐̈́D̵̜͚̃̍ ̵̢͔͛P̸͓̆͊L̶̮͐̀Ḛ̵̙̇̈́Ă̶̲̤S̴̻̽̿ͅE̴͓̔̚-̸̼̒ ̸̳̯͛̚Í̸͇Ṯ̶̟̀'̷̻͊̈S̸̲̘̐ ̷̺̳̈͝M̵̼̐Ē̵̩̻̓!̵̠͊̀-̸̼͂͛"̸͙͇͊

SLASH!

Pain. Undeniable pain filled C00lkidd's body, his mouth opening to let out a shrill glass shattering scream. Blood gushed out of the newly opened wound, the child's body being slightly flung forward from the impact of the claws, his small body hitting the grass with a soft thud.

The world felt as if it was silent, unmoving, in utter disbelief at what just happened.

007n7 froze in place, so did Shedletsky, as well as the other survivors who were hiding in the graveyard at the time. C00lkidd laid on the grass for a moment, unmoving, as if he was a corpse from just one attack.

Slowly he pushed himself up, his body shivering, small sobs and hiccups coming from his throat as tears streamed down his face. His little body sat there in the grass, blood seeping into the baggy shirt he was wearing. He slowly turned his head, looking back at the beast who just attacked him, his eyes wet and glossed over in fear.

“P-Papa…?”

C00lkids's voice trembled, that being the only word that he could force out before returning to hiccups and sobs. 007n7 stared at what he had done, his poor baby bleeding because of him. He stared down at his claws, bloodied with his son's blood, hacking up more tar than usual as it also flowed down his face mimicking tears.

Before he could do anything else, 007n7 felt a sharp object in his chest, Shedletsky's sword piercing where a heart should be, twisting the sharp blade to get as much damage as he could possibly get. A bright green and red glint in his eyes as he gritted his teeth in anger. He lifted his sword from the creature's chest, it didn't even try to fight back, before Shedletsky could strike again his vision blur.

It suddenly cut to black. It didn't fade like normal, just a swift shutdown of all his sight.

The survivors table was almost full, only excluding Elliot and Chance both of who quickly entered the dining room, not to celebrate their win.

No.

It was because of the loud wailing that erupted the second they entered the cabin, C00lkidd's cries being ear-piercing so much so a few did have to cover their ears. Tears and snot running down the poor boy's face as he wailed and wailed.

Shedletsky didn't move at first, his breathing trying to calm down after his outburst, it's rare he experiences anger especially in such high qualities. His eyes darted to the child next to him, listening as Two Time from the other side tries their best to shh the child to calm down. Without another thought he scooped the child into his arms, rushing out of the dining room and cabin door, he made his way towards the docks, sitting down as he held C00lkidd closely.

Truthfully he had no idea what to do, just letting the child sob into his chest, not caring as his white shirt was permanently stained by the tears and snot, he had plenty extra. Softly he rubbed C00lkidd's back, humming a gentle tune as he began to rock back and forth in an attempt to help. He had to ride this out until C00lkidd exhausted himself…Again.

“Why-” C00lkidd harshly inhaled. “Why would papa hurt me!? He- he wouldn't- but- but he said that- that-” C00lkidd tried to speak, his words scrambling together as his sobs got louder, Shedletsky's hold as him tightened.

“It's okay kid.. I know I know-” Shedletsky's voice cracked as he tried to comfort the child. “It's okay… You're safe now.. That wasn't your papa- just know that… know that wasn't him no matter what it said…” he lied, biting his lip as a disgusted twisting feeling filled in his gut.

Shedletsky lost track of how long they sat there, how long C00lkidd sobbed, how long he had to hush comforting words to him, not knowing if they were even working in the slightest.

C00lkidd's crying was long gone now, the wind didn't even make a sound as Shedletsky stared off into the waters, C00lkidd curled up exhaustedly sleeping against him. Shedletsky just sat there, no thoughts in his head, his body slightly rocking still as if trying to soothe himself now.

The soft creaking of the docks rickety wood seemed to gently tug him back into realty, blinking tears away as he noticed somebody else sitting next to him. He was expecting Builderman or even Dusekkar, but glancing over he saw Elliot instead.

“Hey..” Elliot spoke softly.

“Hey.” Shedletsky’s voice was hushed but cracking ever so slightly.

A silence lingered in the air, the two sat in each other's presence for a long time. Elliot awkwardly fidgeting with his hands as his eyes occasionally looked towards the two.

“You know..” Elliot finally spoke up. “You don't gotta.. Care for him on your own- we can always help..”

Shedletsky didn't respond, simply looking down at the child sleeping in his arms. Elliot clenched his teeth uncomfortably.

“It's just- it'd be better if we all helped you know! You don't have to stress yourself out trying to play father figure-”

“I'm fine Elliot.” Shedletsky sharply responded, catching the support off guard. “It's-.. I was the one who found him, so it's my responsibility.”

Elliot blinked slowly, his expression softening before shaking his head and sighing.

“Whatever man..” He stood up, crossing his arms. “Just.. If it gets too overwhelming, we're here.”

With that, Shedletsky was alone again. Alone with the child he decided to care for, his head creened downwards to look down at him.

He broke his promise to keep C00lkidd safe, and that'll haunt him for the rest of his days.