Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It’s written in a ‘script’ format for the entirety of Act 1 & Prologue. Act 2, 3, Epilogue and Beyond the Epilogue are written in ‘script’ + described stories interchangeably.

This AU is like if Magnus Archives, BATIM, Limbus Company, Midsommar, In Stars and Time, Arcane, and every fandom I’ve ever seen decided to screw and have a really messed up child. They make me so ill augh/pos anyways sit back relax and enjoy the show

Chapter Text

(Bendy falls out of the machine)

(Thomas is stunned. Also excited.)

Thomas : Bendy..?

(Ink demon nervously looks up at him.)

Thomas : You're.. real?

Whoa, this is amazing!

Uhm- still a bit..

(He is stunned, still, from having just made a living being)

Well, Mister Drew. Not the best, but it's something.

Joey : ... (stares at a sketch of Bendy)

(Whatever that is is definitely not Bendy, to Joey)

Give me.. a few moments, will you, Tommy?

Thomas : ..sure.

Sure.

Joey : ....

(Leaves the room quietly, doesn't seem to have much to say)

———

In Sammy's office

Susie: Sammy, have you got that message from Mister Drew yet?

Sammy: No.. haven't yet. Anything important?

Susie: It's a bit of an invitation to an apparently exclusive feast.

Sammy: Hm. I see.

(Still busy with work)

Susie: .. I'll leave you be! See you at lunch, don't be late!

Sammy: I won't (looks up)

A small letter invitation slips out under Sammy's pile of work. He looks surprised, while picking it up and reading it.

"Congratulations on your extraordinary performance this year! You are cordially invited to The Feast, a special exclusive party for the most prodigious employees. Together at the dining hall located by the archives at 10:00 pm on New Year's Eve, don't be late!

Invite another special someone, Sammy. And don't worry, I've already invited Susie.

Thank you for your time

Your boss, Joey Drew

(GLASS SHATTERS)

Joey:Oh goodness.. Tom.

Haven't you gotten my tape?

Thomas: (slightly offended) I have.

Joey: Then go lock this damned thing up.

Thomas looks hesitant at Bendy.

If anything it's still a creation.

Thomas: You aren't joking..

(Pause)

Joey: Of course I'm not joking, Tommy.

Thomas: About the-

Joey: Souls?

Thomas (stunned): ......

Joey (Chuckles, then laughs) : You should have seen the look on your face!!

We'll go over the details later on New Years, don't worry, Tom.

You'll be there, won't you?

(Shoulder pats as he walks past, dropping the same letter into Thomas' hand.

Thomas's expression morphs into a perplexed and worried one, as he slowly opens the envelope.

He then glances at Bendy, who looks at him angrily.

Thomas reaches a hand out to Bendy, but the demon leaps forward, trying to attack him.

But there were chains holding him back.)

Thomas pants, backing away.

(No, this wasn't just any creation anymore.

It was becoming a monster.

Bendy begins to panic as realization closes in on him. He writhes and thrashes around angrily, screaming.

Thousands of chains block him from view.)

[A voice spoke : THEY.. UNRIGHTFULLY CHAINED YOU. THEY UNJUSTLY HELD YOU BACK. YOUR SCREAMS CUTS ME INTO TWO..

OH, CHILD..

WHY?]

———

New Years

Thomas quietly sits in the dining hall, already there ahead of time. He stares at everyone still being absent. His eyes narrow down, still unsure of what to do.

Jack: You chose me? And didn't tell me ahead of time?

Sammy: I thought you'd always liked a good surprise.

Jack: You're not wrong, but this is quite a special occasion. Lucky I wasn't planning on going home this year.

Susie: (giggling) Had you even ever had time to go home?

Jack: Not really.

Norman (suddenly showing up): Peculiar, don't you think? No time to go home. Every year. Too busy and all.

Jack: Don't scare us like that again.

Sammy (completely ignoring Jack and being unfazed): More like no money.

Susie: Says you.

Sammy: Excuse me?

(Shawn standing at the entrance. He's kinda iffy to enter because Thomas is inside alone.)

(Sees Wally)

Shawn: You too?

Wally: Of course!

Shawn: ..... I'm surprised.

Wally: Excuse me? I work hard for every penny I earn. Glad Mister Drew finally noticed. (laughs to himself)

Shawn: You know Thomas' here too.

Wally: ...

Oh?

Shawn: Been a bit oddly quiet. Think he's in a bit of a trance.

Wally: Well he ain't yelling at me today!

Lacie: (hoarse) Excuse me, who?

Shawn: Thomas. Thomas Connor. That guy who made that ink machine thing.

Lacie: ... Oh? (Clearly doesn't know what the heck he's talking about)

Shawn: Ink.. machine? It's been a pretty big thing?

Lacie: I don't-

must've slipped by, huh.

Lacie shuffles into the dining hall

(Bertrum's shadow looms over)

Bertrum: Seen Lacie?

Shawn: (a bit tensed) Er- yes! Went in there.

Bertrum: Ah, thank you. She's always early, you know?

Wally: I don-

Shawn (hits arm and whispers): It's a rhetorical question, Franks!

Bertrum smiles at the two, amused, and walks into the dining hall as well.

Wally: Remind me why we are still standing here?

What are we, bellhops?

Shawn: (Already gone into the dining room.)

Wally (awkward stare)

Grant: Pardon-

Wally:Oh, Mister Grant Cohen!

Grant:... (you interrupted me?) Is this the-

Wally: Dining hall, yes!

Grant: (sighs) I appreciate you trying to finish my sentence but do I have to tell you again I can speak just fi-

Wally: Come on in!

Grant: Never mind.

All seated, chatting together. Thomas is still sitting at the nearest corner by Joey's seat as Grant tries to start a conversation with him to lower the tension,which succeeds a bit. He turns around and talks a bit, but with the energy of a zombie. Eventually gets him to talk like a normal sane person.

(But the conversation is drowned out by commotion)

Joey walks in and sits at his little throne.

Everyone stares at him and waits for him to say something.

Joey stares back awkwardly.

Joey: Am I supposed to tell you to eat? Go on!!

They start digging in whilst talking.

Joey smiles, satisfied, then turns to look at Thomas who stares back at him, waiting for something.

Joey: Forget about what I said earlier.

Party on, Tom! It's a special night!

Thomas (small smiles), still hesitant to reach for spoon, until Wally shoves a mouthful of food into his mouth.

Wally: Cheer up! We're in for an amazing year, Thomas!

Thomas (shrugs): If you insist-

Though- don't-

(Mouthful) do that again.

Wally : (chuckle) Alright, alright.

(Scene pans)

Jack: This is real good!!

Sammy: Ah, I wouldn't be surprised.

Susie: (snorts) Of course, it's Mister Drew.

Sammy: (takes in a spoonful of mashed potatoes) So, what are we in for?

Susie: (smirks knowingly) I heard there's chocolate cake for dessert.

Sammy (looks away, trying to hide a smile): Really?

Norman: Your smile's growing wider than you can hide.

Grant: (chiming) Just admit you miss that taste of that luscious dessert.

Wally: Did someone say chocolate cake?

Sammy: (admits) Oh, fine.

Jack: (chuckle) That's the Sammy I know.

Shawn: Dang, I missed the conversation.

Lacie: (waves her knife in his direction a bit too.. close) With that much piled on your plate? I'm not surprised.

Shawn: (surprised) Woah, careful with that- Lacie-

Bertrum: (just want to talk about himself) Y'know, when Mister Drew hired me, we had an interesting-

Joey: (LOUD COUGH)

(THAT CONTINUES FOR AN EXTENDED PERIOD OF TIME.

PROBABLY FAKE)

Everyone pauses

Joey: (sheepish smile) It was a.. lovely chat.

Bertrum: ... Yes, yes indeed.

Norman (leans in with a whisper): Tell me about it later.

Bertrum: (doesn't look at Norman, eyes still on Joey) Will do.

Lacie stares at Thomas awkwardly, though Thomas doesn't meet her gaze.

Lacie: (to distract herself) So, plans for next year?

Shawn : You mean, in a few hours.

Lacie : (snorts) Yeah. Just talking about the long term.

Susie: (oh) Nothing special, really. I'm satisfied as it is.

Jack: Of course, Miss Alice Angel.

Susie: (quiet chuckle)

Jack: Don't think I have anything except keeping Sammy sane.

Only thing on my to-do list!

Bertrum: (laughs so loudly everyone stares at him)

(Especially Sammy who's emitting a very dark aura)

Bertrum: ... Apologies, I.. am just, slightly amused. Reminds me of when I was young.

Sammy: (uncomfortable) I.. see.

Grant : That doesn't sound like a "slightly" amused.

Lacie: Aight, that's my goal.

My only plan is to teach you how to laugh at the right moment.

Jack: (looks at her with a tired, understanding expression) Seems like we're on the same boat.

Norman : (snorts) Best of luck then.

Wally: My plan is to-

Joey : (stands up)

May I have your attention?

(Everyone stops as per manner)

Thank you.

I know- apologies for such a sudden, abrupt toast.. (Heh)

But, oh, well, I don't think having a sleepy, sober audience at midnight would be such a great idea.

(A few murmurs of agreements and nods)

(The shot pans around as it shows everyone with a glass)

(Genuine)

(A breath)

I would just like to say on this fantastic night, that, I thank you all. I appreciate all your hard work that you've wholeheartedly contributed to the studio. That's why I picked you all to share this wondrous moment with me.

You're special, the most extraordinary individuals I've ever had the honor of meeting.

I hope that from this moment here on now we'll continue to build an amazing studio family, that we'll continue to create great things for the world to see, and now with the help of the ink machine, we can do so much more.

Please raise all your glasses to our studio!!

(A loud cheering sound as everyone cheers back / Thomas does not raise his as high / and they all take a sip)

——-......———

Joey sits alone in the dining hall. All the drinks were finished, though the food, not. Minus the chocolate cake that was completely finished.

His head slowly turns to glare at a table nearby, where an empty "special inkwell" lay empty.

Joey: .. To our studio.

To the greater good..

-

To our success!

-Scene 1, END-

Chapter Text

(On the streets of Broadway, Joey enters a building)

Joey: Nathan! There you are!

Nathan: Ah, Joey, old pal.

Joey: My, my, has it been a while since I've visited your place! (Laughs wholeheartedly)

Nathan: Yes, it has been.. a while.

(Allison whizzes by)

Joey: Hm.

Nathan: What's on your mind?

Joey: Well, y'know that Allison Pendle I used to quite admire? I thought I just saw her pass by.

Nathan: Oh, well, I invited her for a special role by-

Are you listening?

Joey (in a trance): Huh? Well uhhhh

Nathan:......

Don't you have enough voice actors already?

Joey: You know it'd be a delight to have her play a role!

(Plus, with her failing career these days, it'd be quite a cakewalk to get her right into the studio)

Nathan: I don't advise it, especially with your latest huge investment! Which, may I add, I still don't understand!

Joey: Nathan it's not like I can't have it all sorted out.

Nathan: Alright, Drew, I believe in ya! But don't say I didn't warn you!

Joey: Thanks a load, Nathan. I owe you one!

Nathan: Yeah, yeah. Upstairs and a right turn.

(Rushes up and catches up with Allison on time)

Allison: Pardon?

Joey: (panting) Sorry for the rush, ma'am. I'm Joey Drew, but you may also know me as CEO of Joey Drew Studios!

Allison: Oh! The one with the..

Joey: Bendy cartoons, yes. I'd like to make an offer.

Allison: Oh, hmm..

Joey: Let's talk about it over dinner, see you at Sardi's at eight, don't be late!

Allison: Oh uh!

....

Sure...

————

Abby: Well, look who's back.

Joey: Abby-!

Abby: Who'd you visit?

Joey: Oh.

Nathan.

Abby: God.

You know how he is.

Joey: I know, Abby.

But he's got the attitude of a businessman.

Abby: ..That's true.

Just stay on that line then.

Joey: Sure.

....

(Joey slowly looks up to his to-do list. One was: find a soul?)

(He thinks quietly for a few seconds)

————-

Susie: Hello, Sammy. How was last night?

Hope you've sobered up now! (Haha)

Sammy: ...I didn't even drink that much Susie..

Susie: Really?

Sammy: Yeah. Really.

Please just-

...

What a great New Years to begin with. A load pile of work.

Susie: And mine?

Sammy: Jack's sorting it out.

Susie: Thanks!

(Susie walks causally over to Jack)

Jack: ..Mmh.. Here you go Susie!

Susie: (takes a small pile) Huh

Jack: What's wrong? Did I grab the wrong paper?

Susie: No.. it's a lot less than I expected.

Jack: Is that a good thing or a bad thing..?

Susie: I don't know.

I mean, you all are just getting, piles and piles of orders and work and I'm just-

This?

Jack: (smirks) So you're telling me you think it's unfair.

Or because you just wanna get the chance to voice act Alice.

Susie: (trying to deny) Both-!

*sigh* Well, if you need my assistance I'll just be in the recording booth.

Jack: Right, Miss Alice. I'll pass that along.

Susie: (smiled lightly at the name) Thanks.

Jack sighs to himself, pushing away another pile to reveal he hasn't got much to do either.

(Jack grabs the rest and walks over to Sammy)

(Knock knock)

Sammy: Come in.

Jack: There's been a bit of a mix up. Here's some of.. the files... for you.

Sammy (sarcasm): Great

(Clunking sounds)

(The two look up from Sammy's desk to find Thomas coming in with a toolbox)

Sammy: Excuse me?

Thomas: Did you not get the memo?

Jack slips out a piece of paper underneath hastily

(Installing pump switch in Sammy Lawrence's office by 9:00 am)

Sammy: (brimming with sarcasm and about to absolutely lose it) Absolutely. Fantastic. Tom.

Thomas: ....

Jack: Is there anywhere else you can put it?

Thomas: Sorry, Jack. Pipework's the closest to this wall over here. (Knocks on wall) Might have to find somewhere else to work for now.

Sammy: Well then hurry it up.

Thomas: Could say the same to you.

(Sammy doesn't say anything, but hurries out of his office. Jack follows behind)

Sammy: Norman. The projector. Set up. Now. You. Cellist over there. Get the whole band back together here right now. Susie. Stay quiet. Jack. Go watch over Thomas. Make sure he's making the least noise possible.

Jack: Woah. You're done with the first song already?

Sammy: .. No time for second thoughts, Jack. Get to it already.

Jack: 'right.

(The band plays on as Susie watches from her booth. She notices Joey hiding in the corner of the entrance, watching from afar)

(Joey notices Susie and gives her a wink and a thumb up)

(Susie flashes an awkward smile back)

(Lunch time)

(Sammy has his lunch in the department as per usual. So does the rest.)

Sammy : (clearly upset)

Thomas: Right. Work's done here. Might be a few minor setbacks now that the pump's in your office though.

Sammy: (through gritted teeth) Thanks a lot, Tom. Tell Joey that for me, won't you?

Thomas (what's his problem) : Yeah. Sure.

Jack: Pump switch's for what?

Sammy: Apparently it's supposed to drain ink.

Jack: Ink?

Sammy: Ink. From that machine Joey's been.. going on about.

Jack: Why?

Sammy: (spitefully) In exchange for endless amounts of ink, we are apparently now subjected to daily accidents of ink flooding.

Jack: Fascinating. A pool of ink!

Sammy: And that includes your sewer.

Jack: ...Didn't think about that.

Susie (shows up outta nowhere): Can't you simply ask Sammy to be moved upstairs? It doesn't seem pleasant down there at all and now it's only gonna get worse.

Jack: Ah, it's alright. I do.. need a quiet place...

And better not.. disturb Sammy any further.

Sammy: .....

Susie: I see.

Well, I'm ready to record, if anything.

Sammy: Alright.

...

—————-

(Thomas enters the ink machine chambers. He bluntly throws his toolbox on a nearby shelf)

Joey : Done? Already?

Thomas : Yeah.

Joey : So how's the.. cartoon going?

Thomas : ...

I am figuring out a way to make a perfect copy as soon as possible.

Joey : *sigh*

I do hope so.

You know we'll need it soon.

How's that thing holding up.

Thomas : Haven't checked on it yet.

Joey : ...

Very well.

..

Maybe try to work on Alice first.

These days, her popularity is going through the roof.

———.....———

(Susie's hand gripping a script which blurs in and out rapidly-

-the script stops shaking as Susie composes herself-

-she looks up at Sammy giving her a cue-

-Susie takes a deep breath-]

——-.....———

(The recording is finished. People are flocking about.)

Someone : That was stunning, Susie.

(People passing by) Someone : Great job Miss Alice!

Susie : Thank you!

(Sammy approaches)

Sammy : Thank you.

That was perfect.

And in such a short amount of time, too.

Susie : Well, thank you too! (Smiling)

Sammy : Mhm (nods)

(Walks past)

(Susie worriedly looks behind him)

————————-

(Susie quietly throws an empty candy wrapper into the bin)

Wally : Miss Campbell!!

Susie : Oh! Wally!

Wally : Why hello there! (Chuckling and grabbing the trash can at the same time)

Susie : Hardworking as usual!

Wally : From what I've heard, you too.

Susie : (smirks)

Wally : Well, leaving early today?

Susie : How would you know?

Wally : You threw a candy wrapper in here and from what I remember you always have a candy after all recording sessions have been finished.

Susie : (giggles, but quickly turns into a bittersweet expression) Yes

Wally : Odd of you to have a small session. Blokes back at animation are buzzing about how Alice is getting more popular.

Susie : I've heard.

Wally : Congratulations!

Susie : Thank you.

(Wally does his cap tip salute) : Wally off now! See you tomorrow!

Susie : Bye!

—————

(Grant leaves Joey's office. He eyes Sammy before the guy slips inside.)

(Sammy enters the room. Joey is seated, a cup of coffee has been prepared for both of them.)

Joey : Right on the dot, typical Sammy.

Sammy : Always should be.

Joey : (chuckles)

Sammy : ...

Please enlighten me on why you decided to install a huge pump switch in my office.

Joey : Did Tom not explain it clearly enough?

Sammy : I am asking you, not Tom.

Joey : *chuckles again*

There are many, many changes coming to the studio, Sammy. This is just the beginning! But I can assure you, the end result would be worth the wait.

Sammy : It better be.

Joey : *smiles* It will definitely be.

Sammy : (snatches the coffee mug and takes a generous swig)

Joey : Tired, aren't you?

Sammy : (quiet)

Joey : (CHUCKLES AGAIN.)

I'll let you off to rest.

No music comes with a sleepyhead.

Sammy : (expression reads DO YOU THINK I SLEEP!?)

Joey : Really.

I'm not joking.

Sammy : (grumbles)

(doesn't mention heavy workload)

What a great way to enter a new year.

Joey : (snorts) Hope the feast was to your liking.

I'm not surprised you chose Jack.

You two are always inseparable.

Sammy, Jack. The comedic music duo.

Sammy : Didn't get all too.. dizzy, it's.. fine.

Joey : Still the good ol' clearheaded Sammy.

(Sammy is clearly not clearheaded)

Joey : ...

Well, it was lovely small chat.

But I'd rather not have to drag you way back to the music department.

Sammy : Thanks. I appreciate that.

Joey : ..

(Loud knock)

(Sammy takes the chance to wrap his things up and opens the door. Jack is waiting outside.)

Jack : Oh!-

Mister Drew, you still need me?

Joey : No, Jack.

Jack : Alright then.

(Shuts door)

Jack : Need some coffee?

Sammy : I've had enough.

Jack : Sammy it's been decades we've been working here.

Sammy : Yeah, I can see dates, Jack.

Jack : Don't you think it's time you- we- well..

Sammy : ...

Jack : ....

Sammy : ....

Almost two decades of working here should be a sign to you that we're not going anywhere.

Jack : *haha* Well, kinda obvious!

Sammy : ....

(Clutches chest)

(The feeling of leaving this place makes him uncomfortable inside)

(Jack looks away, he knows that too)

Jack : I'm gonna drop by the lounge.

Sammy : Yeah.

Jack : You need me back?

Sammy : Not soon.

Jack : ...

You're gonna handle all that work alone?

Sammy : Have a certain vision in mind for the current song.

Jack : Two heads are better than one.

Sammy : (scoff)

Jack : (snorts) Of course, shouldn't be surprising for you!

Sammy : I'd tell you when I need you, Jack.

Jack : Alright, alright.

(Disappears into an elevator)

(Jack is in elevator.

He clutches and open his palms. Something doesn't feel right anymore.)

——.....Scene 2 : END....——-

Chapter Text

Susie : Good morning!

(Jack is lounging on a chair nearby)

Jack : Early bird!

Never earlier than Norman, though.

(Susie glances up at Norman at the projection booth. He waves.)

(Susie awkwardly waves back)

Jack : Heh.

Sometimes you wonder how the hell that man gets through traffic.

Susie : (chuckles and walks off) Probably some "secret route", maybe the same as what he uses to see so much.

Norman : That's skill, Susie.

Susie : Sure, sure. Just keep it down sometimes, not a lot of us are very fond.

Norman : (snorts) Alright.

(Sammy enters the dept, walks over to his music stand to grab some leftover sheets left from earlier)

Jane Todd : Hey. Sammy, right?

Sammy : Yes.

Jane : Miss Lambert told me to pass this on.

Sammy : (takes from Jane)

.... Thanks.

(Jane disappears into the background. She catches up with Grace Conway and they start chatting in the background)

(Sammy stands up and goes to his office without saying another word)

(The other watches)

Jack : There he goes.

..

(Snorts)

And to think something will change.

(Susie smirks in a sense of "Heh, well, I'm kinda dandy with it")

—-

(Sammy is orchestrating)

(Suddenly Sammy drops his baton)

Sammy : Stop.

(He storms outside the department, although doesn't motion for anyone to follow, a few nosies follow him anyways)

(Hudson Doyle is passing by, with loud shoes)

Sammy : You.

Tour guide.

Hudson : (turns around)

Sammy : Read the SIGN.

(Please refrain from making a lot of noise)

Hudson : So I'm supposed to wait until all of you are done.

Sammy : Some of us are trying to do their jobs. (Not in a friendly matter anymore)

Hudson : Fine. I apologize. Although do consider that this rule is going to be quite the trouble to those outside the department.

Sammy : (in frustration) I don't want to see this repeat again.

If you're not going to be any help, then DON'T be a PROBLEM.

Hudson : (shrugs) Pardon, I'm not intending to be a problem.

Sammy : (annoyed) Seems pretty clear you are right now.

Hudson : Please, I don't want to start a petty fight.

Sammy : THEN NEXT TIME, READ AND RESPECT, THE RU-

(Suddenly, the sound of a pipe bursting can be heard in the background, the stairwell suddenly begins to flood with ink, overflowing to the floor where the two are standing at)

Susie (running out frantically) : Oh dear, what happened?

Hudson : ..It flooded.

Sammy : ......

Susie : Sammy, you know how that pump switch works?

Sammy : Yeah.

Yeah I'll get it.

(Susie follows Sammy to his office.)

(Sammy tries to crank the pump switch, but it gets jammed)

Sammy : Fantastic.

(Sammy walks over to his desk, sliding out another music sheet and begins to write)

(Now alone together, Susie decides to talk)

Susie : What happened?

Sammy : The ink flooded.

Susie : No, the.. Hudson, was his name, right?

Sammy : The tour guide.

Susie : Oh, yes.

Sammy : Made some..

Loud noise.

Susie : Mhm.

Sammy : ..

You know how it is in here.

Susie : It's a bit of a tough rule to follow for the other departments.

Sammy : (scoffs)

(Susie somewhat flinches)

Sammy : If he could be a little understanding about it.

Susie : *sighs* It can be hard to put yourself in others' shoes sometimes, you know?

Sammy : Very funny, Susie.

Susie : I'm serious.

Sammy : I know.

(Chuckles in an exhausted manner)

It's silly.

Susie : What is?

Sammy : That we-

(He stands up, gathering the messy load on his desk)

have got to, help each other out.

(He opens the door for her)

Like this.

Susie : (smiles lightly)

Sometimes it's better together.

Sammy : ..

Yeah.

Susie : Plus I might be the only one who can keep you from becoming a public enemy at this rate!

Sammy : (toned) Susie..

Susie : Sorry, sorry.

I know you can keep your composure.

Sammy : (Heh)

(The two walks out, a few employees are lingering by the ink pool)

(Commotion)

Susie : So what about the ink pool.

Sammy : Tom's probably here by now.

Someone : The exit's blocked.

Sammy : (crosses arms and paces back) and the entrance-?

Thomas : A flood, already.

Susie : Oh-!

Sammy : Where did you come from?

Thomas : (sighs and shakes his head)

(Thomas walks past them and into Sammy's office. Sammy follows, so does Susie)

Sammy : Make sure this doesn't happen again.

Thomas : No promises.

(Puts his head into the wall)

(Loud sighing from inside) Cutting corners' what Mister Drew does best.

Sammy : (Sighs) Of course. (sarcastic tone)

(Sammy leaves the room)

(Thomas continues tinkering with the panel)

Susie : Sorry for the trouble!

Thomas : ....

(Grunts) It's alright.

—————-

(Thomas shows up at Joey's office)

Joey : Now, Abby, you know-

(Thomas knocks on the open door)

Abby : ..here he comes.

Joey : Abby, please.

Abby : Joey.

....

See you after work.

Joey : Yeah.

(Abby leaves, Thomas enters)

Thomas : Any concerns I should know of?

Joey : No, just the typical, you know.

Thomas : Mhm.

(Sighs)

The music department flooded.

Joey : Already?

That's pretty swift.

Thomas : Unless you could perhaps, get better equipment?

Joey : Listen Tommy, Grant's doing his best over there to keep this place together and adding something more to the list ain't gonna be good.

Thomas : If we don't fix it, there's gonna be another landslide of trouble anyways..

Joey : Tommy..

We need to spare every dollar.

No- every cent.

We can't spend it on.. things we already have!

Thomas : .....

Joey : Which reminds me, you better get that thing working soon.

Might be our last hope to get some cash.

Thomas : ...!

Joey : (snorts)

It's a risk I took.

But I know it'll be worth it.

Thomas : ...

Sure.

Joey : (relieved, exhausted sort of sigh)

I trust you, Thomas.

I know you understand my vision.

(Thomas seems skeptical.)

—————

(Break room)

(Bertrum is grabbing a coffee)

Bertrum : ....

Norman.. Polk, right?

(Norman enters the room)

Norman : (Chuckles) Quick sense.

Bertrum : (chuckles)

How's the year treating you?

Norman : The usual.

(Grabs an empty cup)

And you?

Bertrum : Not much to say either.

(Norman smirks, leans against a wall)

Norman : So, what about you and Joey?

Bertrum : Pardon?

Norman : At the party.

That Joey interrupted.

Bertrum : Oh!

Good memory.

I remember it clear as day.

Light-headed Joey. You won't believe how that man acts when he's just a little tipsy.

Norman : Ha!

To think our boss could be so... silly sometimes. (Sarcasm- that's not hot goss, Bert)

Bertrum : If only you could see it. (Doesn't get the hint)

I told him I wasn't that kind of date.

Norman : I don't think you're anyone's kind of date. (Jab)

Bertrum : (hahah!)

(Bert takes a swig from his mug)

Norman : (sigh exhale) Got a few stories to tell.

You told me one, guess might as well return the favor.

Bertrum : Be my guest.

Norman : You remember Sammy?

Bertrum : Unforgettable.

Norman : Lost his cool today.

Again.

Bertrum : Really? I think he's even colder than Joey!

Norman : Joey? Cold? Ha!

That guy's a flaming volcano.

(Pause)

Sammy losing his temper ain't a rare sight.

But oh, as soon as he did, like on cue, a pipe bursted and there was ink everywhere,

Suffice to say today's the most quiet music department's ever been.

Bertrum : How much ink must there be to literally flood the floor?

Norman : A lot.

Bertrum : I can tell.

Norman : Tom came over to fix, but I don't think these stuff are stopping anytime soon.

Bertrum : What a trouble it'd be.

Norman: If this keeps happening one day we're gonna be locked in the department altogether. (Finds it kinda funny)

Bertrum : Tough.

Norman : (snorts quietly) Good for you having a.. balcony office. Weird, but convenient.

Bertrum : This place's architecture is a work of disaster.

Norman : I know. Although winding corridors does have its perk-

(The two both feel a gaze. They turn to see Wally mopping the floor)

Wally : You two go on, aight?

I'm listening.

Norman : Hey-

Wally : Hey you two ain't stopping me from listening in on!

(Bertrum shifts his mug aside)

Bertrum : That's enough for me today.

Wally : Dang. Swift, eh?

(Norman doesn't say anything, he simply smirks.)

——-

(The music department)

(It's quiet, Jack's rubbing the floor with his shoe using a wet rag.

It's not helping to soak up the ink at all.

He glances over at Sammy in his office. Joey's electricity saving policy is forcing Sammy to light a candle to continue working.)

Wally : Oh geez, geez, geez! I'm sorry, Jack. Got a bit too caught up over at administration.

Jack : No worries, Wally.

(Wally pulls out a flashlight and starts rummaging through his equipment closet.)

(He panics suddenly, throwing a bucket of tchotchkes out of the closet)

Wally : You've seen my keys!?

Jack : No? Lost them again?

Wally : Thank goodness Sammy isn't here or I'll be-

(Wally suddenly notices Sammy's silhouette in his office)

Wally : Oh geez..

Jack : (phew in a like whoosh, here we go) good luck.

Wally : ... thanks?

(Jack walks away, but turns around to look at Sammy once more. His face slightly contorts, in worry or in annoyance, can't be told)

(Sammy in his office, he takes a few deep breaths, and turns the radio on.)

———....Scene 3 : END....——-

Chapter Text

(A calendar on the wall)

Jack : (muttering) Another day..

(Voice brightens up a bit) Another day!

(It's still the same)

Jack : (sighs)

————-

(Sammy's office)

(Knock knock)

Sammy : You're the only one who actually.. knocks.

Jack : (chuckles)

(A clink as a mug of coffee is placed next to Sammy)

(Sammy never looks up from his work)

(Jack peers over)

(Sammy sighs. He tries to not blatantly act like he doesn't want Jack to see, but his hand misses and knocks over the inkwell)

Sammy : (sighs) Just great.

Jack : How long have you been running on without sleep?

Sammy : Long enough.

Jack : (sighs) Really? Again?

(Sammy throws a scrapped music sheet into the ink puddle to soak up the mess)

(He stands up and Jack follows suit, but Sammy remains silent)

Jack : Oi, you know..

Sammy : I. Don't. Need. Help.

Not right now.

Jack : Seems to me like you do.

Sammy : Look, I just.. I know, what I'm doing. Losing a few hours of sleep isn't the end of the world.

Jack : It's alright to ask for help.

Sammy : You're saying it as if I'm having a problem.

I. Don't.

I'm content, I'm satisfied. You have seen this a million times, what makes it so big of a difference now that you have to come offering me help.

Jack : (doesn't want to admit he wants to feel useful)

Look at your eye bags!

Sammy : What about my eye bags!?

(They stand still in the hallway now.)

Jack : God, I know you're skilled and all-

Sammy : I. Know. That.

Jack : Loosen up a bit.

Sammy : (grumbles) I genuinely. Enjoy. Composing. Hours of this is fine to me.

Jack : Is overworking fine!?

Sammy : I'm. Fine. Like this, Jack. I know what I'm doing.

Jack : You clearly don't with this schedule!

Sammy : (Snaps) WHEN HAS THAT EVER YOUR PROBLEM!?

Jack : IT HAS ALWAYS BEEN, GODDAMN IT!!

(The entire department looks over at them)

(Sammy is stunned. Jack seems to be having no problem.)

(By instinct, Sammy grabs Jack by the arm)

Sammy : Don't come around here mixing our personal problems with our jobs.

If you want an audience, do it in a theatre.

(Jack looks at Sammy. He wasn't sure if he was confused with himself, or furious with Sammy)

Jack : ....

.....

Fine.

Sorry.

Sammy : ...

(This has never happened before)

(Why was it happening now? After decades?)

(Jack adjusts his hat, he watches as Sammy walks past the department)

(Jack takes a deep breath)

Susie : Are you alright?

Jack : Yikes!

Susie : Jumpy, aren't you?

Jack : Yep, looks like it.

Susie : What happened?

Jack : Sammy blew a fuse.

Susie : At you?

Jack : Yuuuup.. good ol' Jack angered the guy.

Susie : Oh, dear.

Why don't we go grab something to drink and we can talk about it?

Jack : (Heh)

A talk isn't exactly necessary.. but a coffee sure is.

—————

(So, in the break room)

Jack : One?

Susie : No.

Doesn't really help with my head.

(Susie watches Jack casually brewing up a coffee)

You're one good barista.

Jack : Lattes gets boring after a while.. so I had to try others.

Susie : Understandable.

(Jack takes a sip)

Susie : Has he always been like this?

Jack : Who?

Susie : Sammy.

You know, before .. the studio.

Jack : I thought you'd know by now.

Susie : To love someone doesn't mean to know everything about them.

Jack : I thought that's what it's about.

Susie : There's things of the past we don't tell each other.

Jack : ..... love's not really.. something I put much of a thought in.

Susie : It's not for everyone.

So, about Sammy.

Before coming here.

You seem.. fairly.. all too well about this.

Jack : No.. no, it's not just- god, Sammy just had an explosion, and so? Just the first time he snapped at me, damn it.

Susie : It doesn't sound like a first to you.

Jack : Heh. First or not, who cares? He'll just go sit back down, pout in his little office, do some work and walk out like nothing had ever happened.

Susie : (sighs) Jack.

I don't know what's going on- or what had happened between the two of you- but it doesn't seem like a "oh, it happens, and so what."

Jack :

..

Oh for goodness' sake, it's always been like this.

.. it won't happen again, I swear-

Susie : Hey, Jack.

I get it.

There are times you just feel.. like you can't help anything.

But you're already happy to help, that makes you being here already great in itself.

Jack : ...

(Chuckles a bit)

Thanks

(Sighs) golly, this isn't the time for me to be- doing this.

Susie : Well, ready to head back, then?

Jack : ....

Always have been.

———-

(Music department)

(Susie's walking down the hall, a purse on one shoulder. She notices the poster on the wall)

(She slowly halts to a stop in front of it)

Susie (in Alice's voice) : What a wonderful job today, Susie!

Susie : (chuckles)

....

Oh, Alice.

Aren't you the most perfect creation?

Susie (in Alice's voice) : ... Relax, Susie.

(Wally walks by the corner and hears, but he doesn't look at her. Kind of just- stops)

Susie (in Alice's voice) : You did great today!

Susie : ...

(Sighs with another embarrassed, sheepish chuckle)

Oh, it has always been a joy to voice you!

You really are a gal.

... (glances at a nearby clock)

Oh, my, it's quite late.

See you later, Alice.

(Sighs again, but this time a relished kind of sigh)

(Wally smiles and sighs, and walks away)

————

(Wally is at animation department, casually wrapping up a ton of trash into his cart)

(Commotion behind him)

Phil : Come again?

Bill : (mumbling) Isn't this a little repetitive?

Phil : We're just paid animators, we don't choose what we animate!

Bill : YEAH. Yeah! But this, Alice Angel, again!? This is the FIFTH Alice cartoon this. Month.

Phil : And so!? If you've got a problem, head over to Mister Drew instead of your co worker, who's trying to work!

Bill : Oh, goodness' sake, sending me to the lion's den.

Phil : That's my point. Yeesh, it's just another mania, it'll die down soon enough.

Bill : How long do you reckon this is gonna go on?

Phil : What? You're gonna quit because you're being fussy over a single character? What about that damn clock you spent hours animating!?

Bill : (tight-lipped) I don't understand.. Alice.

Phil : (sighs) She's a bit hard to get, but not impossible.

Bill : I dunno, Phil. It's hard to animate like this.

Phil : Just get it done.

(Phil walks away, leaving Bill alone to be frustrated with himself)

Wally : Susie's doing her best, don't worry Bill!!

(Wally remembers everybody's names)

Bill : (sighs)

Thanks, Wally.

Wally : You're welcome!

(Cheeky smile)

(Bill blinks, then walks away)

(Wally dumps the remainder of the bins into the main bin, and rolls his cart away)

————

(Joey's office)

Joey : Susie!

(Joey opens the door to his office, Susie is already waiting inside)

Susie : Oh! Mister Drew!

Joey : Apologies for the delay.

Susie : It's alright.

(Joey sits down opposite to Susie)

Joey : So, I suppose you've already caught on by now.

Susie : About Alice? (Sheepish chuckle) Yes, I've heard.

A lovely surprise, too, I thought I'd be stuck with the low parts for this year, if not playing Alice!

Joey : I knew I chose the right person for the role!

Susie : Well, as I've always said, Alice and I, we're going places!

Joey : Good, good.

Here at Joey Drew Studios, that's the kind of enthusiasm we're looking for!

Susie : To make dreams come true..

Joey : ...

Dreams come true, Susie.

Dreams come true.

Susie : (another giggle) They do, huh?

Joey : They do, here at Joey Drew Studios.

... (Joey reaches over for a piece of paper)

Oh, and sorry I haven't really been checking in over at Music.

Schedules are beyond packed these days.

Though, I trust that Sammy could handle it just fine, right?

Susie : Yeah, he has been doing his best.

Joey : (sighs) Good ol' Sammy.

(Susie doesn't meet Joey's eyes, knowing the music dept is never without a drama each day)

Joey : Something wrong?

Susie : (sighs) Well, the music department isn't the most peaceful place.

For a department that's quite strict on noise, we sure can be pretty boisterous.

Joey : Ah, I see.

Well, I'll be sure to drop by more often.

Here, we encourage positive work environments.

Susie : .. I understand.

I'll, I'll try to keep it calm over there.

(Joey nods in approval, he adjusts his posture)

Joey : Thank you,

Alice

You truly are an angel.

You're perfect for the role!

Susie : Oh- (shy) (a murmur interrupted in while Joey is speaking and he does not stop to listen)

Joey : -Absolutely perfect!

(Sighs)

(Joey turns over a piece of paper with an Alice Angel drawing)

(He hands it to Susie)

Joey : Look at her, Susie.

You brought her to life.

Just a pencil and a dream- to be so much more!

(Susie takes the drawing)

(She seems to have a new outlook on Alice)

Susie : (smiles) Yeah.

(Susie has a sort of like satisfied expression)

She's perfect.

Joey : Keep it.

There's plenty more.

Just a little keepsake from me!

Authentic Joey Drew art.

Susie : (chuckles) Why, thank you!

Joey : (smiles back)

You know, it took a long time to dream up the little angel you know and love today.

I wanted her to be strong, dynamic, intelligent.. someone lovable.

Most importantly, to always stop Bendy from getting into too much trouble! (Haha)

Susie : (laughs too) Oh, he's always the troublemaker.

Joey : That's how it goes. Bendy gets caught in a mischief, Alice swoops in to help! Susie : (Chuckles) oh, it's always a good laugh to see them together on adventures.

(Susie caresses the edge of the drawing affectionately)

Joey : Maybe that's why you connect with her so much!

Susie : (small gasp, like Joey's literally looking into her mind.)

Well.

Maybe that's why.

(A knock on the door)

(Joey looks at his watch in surprise)

Joey : Golly, time flies!

Sorry, Alice, I really gotta shoot off.

Turn off the lights on your way out, will you?

Susie : Yes, don't worry about it.

(Joey leaves in a jiffy)

(Susie watches as Joey leaves, the door closing on her, the room darkens)

——-......Scene 4 : END.....——-

Chapter Text

(Music Department)

(Susie walking, in a pretty good mood, other characters are waving by as she passes through)

(Susie enters an elevator. As it begins to descend, an intern next to her turns to look at her upbeat demeanor)

Dot : You're quite cheery today, miss Alice.

Susie : (giggles) Ah, well.. somedays you just get those unexpected nice surprises.

Dot : (chuckles)

Good luck today!

Susie : You too!

(Elevator dings)

(Susie leaves)

(Sammy is opening up the department)

Susie : Sammy! You're opening up the department?

Sammy : (grunts as he stands up) If some certain janitor didn't lose his keys again..

(Susie sees Wally)

(Wally shrugs)

(Susie sighs)

(Grate door opening)

(Susie enters as Sammy walks over to his stand, he perches atop of his tall stool)

(A faint wood crack can be heard)

Susie : Sammy, the chair-

Sammy : What about it-

(One of the leg breaks as Sammy stands up in time, narrowly avoiding falling flat on his face)

(Sammy grumbles)

Susie : Ooh...

Sammy : ...

Thanks for.. looking out..

(Sammy goes on his knees to inspect the chair)

Susie : (Heh) Someone's gotta make sure you don't keep getting yourself into fights.

(Sammy stops)

Sammy : .. You mean about yesterday?

Susie : ....

Sammy : (sighs)

It's a little.. odd between me and Jack.

....

Might've never said this directly, but..

Thank you,

Really

Never thought I'd ever have a shot with anyone.

Yet you still saw something in me.

Susie : ... (small smile)

Sammy : ...

(Sighs)

This one's definitely busted.

(Sammy trudges out of the room)

(A loud projector click noise)

(The light shines on to Susie)

Susie : Norman?

(The light slowly moves out of her way)

(Norman laughing)

Susie : Oh, Norman..

Norman : (sighs satisfyingly) Sorry, just a system test.

Susie : Christ, you're gonna blind someone with that thing someday.

Norman : I'll be careful.. (drags voice)

Susie : We'll see.

Norman : (laughs, then stops. He peers over the edge)

So, stop him from getting into fights, huh?

Susie : Have you been watching again?

Norman : No, definitely not. A little birdie told me.

Susie : Terrible lie, there aren't even birds in here.

Norman : It's just a remark.

Back on track, tough ey?

Susie : .....

(Susie looks away, pondering)

No

...No, not really.

I feel... right ...playing this role. Like it's meant to be.

Norman : Huh..

They don't call you Alice for nothin' , I see

Susie : I suppose not.

Norman : (sighs) And Angel.

Susie : Well-

To really bring a character to life, you gotta get invested in them, right?

Norman : You tell me, I can't act for the life of me.

Susie : (chuckles)

...

I never exactly.. got invested in a character much. To see through their eyes, to live out their stories, it's astonishing, sure.. but Alice truly is the first I've felt a connection with.

I'm.. I'm awestruck by her.. she's perfect!

Norman : Hm.

That's what everyone says about her, right?

Susie : She's special, Norman.

Norman : Yeah, she is.

Susie : (demeanor changes quickly) The role of an angel might be a tough one to play for some, but we need one in the mix, don't we?

(Her voice is strained passive-aggressively)

Norman : ... (concerned stare)

Susie : (snaps out)

Oh, no, I don't mean to use that tone, Norman!

Norman : No, it's nothing.

You're right.

It's a breath of fresh air in this department's constant excessive drama.

Susie : ..It is.

(Norman adjusts his projector)

Norman : Lovely chat, but uh.. we better wrap it up before Sammy comes in.

Don't wanna.. take more time.

Susie : Wait!

Norman : ?

Susie : ...

Thank you, and..

Sorry, again.

Norman : ....

Don't sweat it, Susie.

Susie : ..

Alright.

(Sammy walks back in with another chair. Norman has disappeared.)

Sammy : Here's the script for today.

(Susie takes from Sammy)

(Sammy looks at his as well)

(Susie feels unsettled by something)

(Susie starts singing to calm herself down : "I'll be your angel/lonely angel")

(Sammy looks up to watch her sing. He does not stop her, but looks at her with a deadpan face.)

———

(Heavenly Toys)

(Dale Little is holding a piece of paper)

(Shawn walks over from behind)

Dale : Here are the orders for this week.

(Shawn takes it from Dale)

(A few moments of silence)

Shawn : People really be digging Alice Angel, huh?

Angus : Yep, ever since she went on a lil trip people have been demanding her return.

Shawn : And Susie delivered..

Angus : (ha!) She sure did.

(Shawn grumbles, he grabs a marker and scribbles something on to a board)

Shawn : Hopefully these sells.

Don't need another.. mess in here.

Angus : Well, let's get on to it then.

The more time we waste, the more these dolls ain't be sellin'!

Dale : (coughs) Says you.

Angus : Hehe!!

Shawn : Yes, yes.

Lemme grab the-

(A loud little explosion sound)

(The three turns around, the toy machine is busted and a little fire is growing)

Dale : FIRE!!!

Angus : A short-circuit!

Shawn : Back off!!

(Shawn throws a damp towel on to the flickering flame)

Angus : Where'd you get water this quickly?

Shawn : Fountain-

(Dale glances outside)

Dale : That's.. not really a sanitized source

Shawn : (grunts) Doesn't matter. It's all good. Fire's out.

Angus : Andddd the machine too....

So, what now

Shawn : ... I don't think I can fix that

Dale : I'll go get one of the Gent guys.

Shawn : (doesn't like the sound of seeing one of them)

Yeah, that'll have to do. (Flat tone)

Angus : Goodie!

Think I've had enough of Mister Flynn tryna fix things, then blowing 'em up again!

(Shawn eyes him)

Angus : No offense, Mister Flynn.

Shawn : (haha sigh) none taken..

(Thomas comes in)

Thomas : What now?

Shawn : You're fast.

Dale : He was.. nearby.

Shawn : Huh

Thomas : Yeah.

(Drops toolbox) A few new.. pipes, here and there.

(Thomas walks across the room opposite to Shawn as he speaks.)

(Thomas starts fixing the toy machine)

Shawn : The ink machine, ey?

Thomas : (sighs) What about it?

Shawn : How's it going

(Few long drawn out moments of silence.)

Thomas : Good

Shawn : Really?

Sure do hope to see somethin' soon.

Mister Drew's sure been hyping it up at the feast.

Angus : What feast?

Shawn : Just a small party he threw.

Thomas : (grunts) There'll be something soon enough.

Shawn : Can't wait (sarcasm)

Thomas : Me neither

Shawn : (amused chuckle)

Thomas : This thing looks overused.

I suggest you give it a break now and then.

Shawn : Right after we got a truckload of orders for one certain toy.

(Thomas glances to an Alice Angel doll on a work table)

Thomas : That?

Angus : Yep

Thomas : People've really been.. adoring her lately, huh

Shawn : Quite obvious..

Thomas : (Annoyed)

Should've guessed.

Shawn : ....

(Shawn turns around, he picks up the Alice doll, squeezes it in his hand, and releases it. He picks up another Bendy doll and grabs a nearby paintbrush, drawing a crooked smile on it.)

Angus : Mister Flynn.. (warning tone)

Mister Drew ain't gunna be glad at that.

Shawn : It's defective.

Don't wanna throw it out without a mouth.

Angus : (snorts) Then he better see a dentist.

(Shawn throws the paintbrush back onto the desk and looks at Bendy)

(He smirks playfully at it)

Thomas : (slams toolbox shut)

There.

No promises it'll hold up, though.

Shawn : (amused chuckle again)

Guess when that happens, I gotta go calling for you again, huh?

Thomas : ....

We're never far.

You know where to find one of us.

Shawn : Yes, yes.

(Angus walks over to crank up the machine again)

Shawn : Hopefully your machine works soon, too.

Thomas : (irritated) Yeah.

(Thomas leaves)

Dale : So?

Thomas : The thing will be fine.

Dale : (sigh) Well, good to hear.

(Thomas looks at Dale (who looks at him), then at Shawn (who doesn't look at him))

Thomas : (exhales) You know where to find me, if you need something fixed again.

Dale : Yeah.

Thanks.

Thomas : ....

(Thomas walks away)

———

(The Ink Machine Chamber)

(Joey is pacing about)

Joey : So, as I was saying-

(Thomas seems distracted)

Joey : Tom?

Thomas : .....

(Joey approaches Thomas)

Joey : Something on your mind?

Thomas : ....

(Deep breath)

Alice, huh.

Joey : (pauses. Demeanor slightly shifts)

What about her

Thomas : Heard from some blokes, word's going around she's really on the up and up.

Joey : ....

Oh, yes!

She is!

Thomas : Mhm. That's swell.

Joey : ....

You know what I'm thinking, right, Tommy?

Thomas : Huh?

Joey : That, well, even if she's sent from above, doesn't mean she's the main character.

Thomas : ....

You know I don't-

Joey : Don't?

Thomas : All those.. (hand gestures) visions.. artistic talk.

Joey : Huh.

I thought that was only Grant.

Thomas : ...

No, what I meant to say- I was just, wondering.

... might as well keep myself up to date with all the.. happenings.

Joey : You've been having quite the trouble with your fellow colleagues, aren't cha?

Thomas : (sighs) Guess people around here don't like.. some random guy..

Coming in, shoving pipes into walls.

Joey : (haha) They'll come around soon.

Thomas : .. (doesn't like what he's doing)

Joey : (pauses)

You know, no need to worry so much about the others.

They'll thank you when your machine works its magic.

Thomas : It's a matter of engineering...

Joey : (haha!)

(Sighs)

Y'know, technology like this, I invest in without thinking twice. People with big dreams, together with another man with another dream. It's perfect.

(Thomas doesn't know what to think about it anymore)

Joey : I might not comprehend it as well as y'all do, but I'm sure you'll bring many dreams to life! We may not have the same interests, but we sure do have the same dream.

(The Machine seems to glisten in the light.)

Thomas : (amused chuckle) Yeah.

Same dream..

(Joey crosses his arms, looking at Thomas amusingly)

Joey : So on this topic about this, dream of yours.

How's the cartoon going?

Thomas : !

Well, steady.

Joey : And any other attempts?

Thomas : .. Few

Joey : May I see?

(Thomas motions towards a row of jars)

(Joey walks over, picks up a few of them)

Joey : (heavy sighs) Tom, this isn't what I paid for.

(Still looking through them)

I already told you we need them soon.

Thomas : (sighs) I'll try better.

Joey : ...

(Joey's hand holds a jar with a blob that looks like it's sloppily molded into Alice Angel)

This.. looks like an attempt, alright.

Thomas : What'd you say?

Joey : (still half-mesmerized) Oh- nothin'

(Thomas leans against tge table, watching Joey fumble with the jars.)

(Thomas remembers the audio log : "If you claim your failures are because these things are soulless, then, damnit! We'll get them a soul.")

("You should've seen the look on your face!")

(Thomas tenses up)

(Joey rolls the jar back into place)

Joey : ...

Tom

Thomas : Hm

Joey : (deep breaths)

Don't forget.

Get the job done.

Do what you need to do.

Thomas : ... Yeah.

(The two stares. Joey seems to be wiggling his hand a bit, he holds his wrist quite nervously)

Joey : (sighs)

(Shoulder shifts)

Well, that's enough of a catch-up, I'll leave you be.

(Thomas doesn't reply, but he small nods as Joey leaves the room)

(Thomas goes over to the jars of blobs)

(He looks at the one Joey just opened. It's a slightly more disfigured Alice Angel, presumably from the ink being unable to hold its shape for long)

(Thomas removes his gloves to touch it, but it stings and seems to seep directly into his skin like a tendril)

Thomas : (ugh!)

...

(Thomas looks at the jars

"Souls"

"SOULS"

"HAHAHA!!" (Joey's laugh echoes in his mind)

(Thomas slams his fist on the table in frustration, causing the jars to shake)

"GRGH!!!"

(Thomas stops.

He withdraws his hand, stunned.

He quickly pulls his sanitizing gloves back on, and touches the ink again, now trying to mold them.)

(His brows scrunches)

——-

(A voice, seemingly switching between it and Tom.)

"You can't 'fix' what's not broken.

They're not failures.

(He's not a failure)

...

I made them like that.

(I made him like that)

The thought of another one of "it" crawling out..

(....)

.. I.. don't need to know-"

——...Act 5 : END...——

Chapter Text

-Music Department-

(An ink flood flooding the stairs again)

(People walking about, panicking)

Someone in the background : Alright, alright, we've got our weekly dose of ink flooding again, everybody stay calm..

(Background, yell) : Calm!?

Oh, for goodness' sake

Yelling isn't going, to help!

(Sammy is standing at his stand, he's clutching his forehead, frustrated. Jack is sitting on a nearby stool, holding a few papers.)

Sammy : You know the drill.

Jack : *sighs* He wasn't lying when he said no promises, huh.

Sammy :(stands up)

Guess not.

(Sammy walks out)

(Jack watches, then looks at his notes again)

(Sammy outside, entrance)

(His eyebrow scrunches)

Wally : Everyone calm- Wally's here to help.

(Wally meets Sammy's eyes)

(Sammy doesn't seem to approve of whatever's Wally's about to do)

Wally : Thomas ain't coming around anytime soon, so Ol' Wally's gunna fix it for ya!

Sammy : Wally.. (warning tone)

Wally : Don't worry Sammy, you can get back to work! Leave this to me.

Sammy : ....

(Sammy doesn't say he trusts Wally with it, but it's gonna have to do for the meantime. He slips back into the department.)

(The crowd dissipates)

(Wally pulls his gloves and grabs his own toolbox)

(Wally licks his lips as he starts to look into the system)

-Recording Studio, music department-

(Sammy slams the door shut)

(Jack is scribbling something on a pile of papers)

Jack : That was fast.

Sammy : *deep breath*

Fast. Swell.

I reckon.. that won't last long.

Where's Susie?

Jack : Went to grab something over at the lounge.

Sammy : So she can't get in.

Just.. perfect.

Jack : Yeah. Tough luck.

(Jack doesn't put his head up from his paper during all of this)

(He finishes the lyrics, taps it in a matter of a satisfied lyricist, then throws it onto a nearby table.)

Jack : And that's one down!

(satisfied sigh)

You need it?

Sammy : ...

Just put it over there.

Jack : Will do.

Sammy : (pulls out a cigar)

(Jack looks up. Sure everyone's scattered outside, and it's just the two of them, but..)

Jack : You know Joey has strict rules for those.

Sammy : It's just you and me, what.

Jack : (haha) This' just like the old times.

Sammy : ..

You have a lighter?

Jack : No...

Sammy : (sighs)

Jack : ...

What's on your mind.

Sammy : What?

Jack : That's when you pull out a cigar?

Sammy : Oh.

(Sighs) Just the.. typical hassles.

Jack : Yeah?

Sammy : Between ink flooding and empty promises, I don't know what's more of a bother.

Jack : Empty what?

Sammy : (throws his head back and down again on his stool)

Joey.

All this.. ink machine... deal.

Jack : Oh.

Oh. Mhm.

(Jack reaches over for his violin)

Sammy : ...

(Snorts)

Creating.. things out of ink..

(Door creaks open)

Wally : There you are!

I'm done, by the way.

(Jack looks pleasantly surprised)

Jack : Well, that's great!

Sammy (doesn't look at Jack) : Huh.

Wally : Think I figured out what went wrong. Might hold up longer now.

I added a few extra.. reinforcements to it!

(Sammy freezes in realization)

Sammy : Where... did you get the.. tools?

Wally : What do you mean?

(Sammy stands up, approaches Wally slowly)

Sammy : Tom sure didn't leave 'em hanging around here.

And you only have a few tools.

Wally : Woah- it's fine, it's-

(A splash sound as another pipe leaks outside)

A voice : Jeez-what now!?

(Jack seems surprised. Sammy is irritated.)

Sammy : Wally-

Susie : He's here!

Oh-

Is now a bad time?

Sammy : ..

(Hard sigh)

Thomas : Wally.

(Wally sweats nervously. Ok, maybe this isn't so comedic anymore. Literally two of the most terrifying workers in the studio is glaring daggers at him.)

Wally : Listen, people always say, solve one problem with another!

Sammy : ...

(Irritated) I reckon it's more of "out of the frying pan, into the fire."

Wally : Oh,

Oh no.

(Thomas hard grunts)

Thomas : Wally, my job isn't to clean up your mess.

Wally : (dryly) Okay, I'm sorry.

Sammy : I'm sorry. Sorry, that's what you say every. Single. Time. You lost your keys.

(Interrupting) Susie : -Wally, I'm sure you didn't mean to break another pipe!

Wally : Susie-

Susie : Thomas, Sammy, I think letting him off the hook this once would be fine, don't you think?

Thomas : (uh- )

Susie : Though, Wally, maybe it's not the best idea to jump the gun next time!

(Sammy's about to say something. Jack in the background is just watching with wide eyes)

Susie : (Alice voice) I'm sure it's best if we don't fight, after all there's so much we can handle a day! (A genuine chuckle, then Susie pauses)

(The room goes quiet. They ain't sure if they just heard that right.)

(Susie quickly composes herself without skipping a beat)

(Thomas doesn't think much of Susie lecturing him. Sammy on the other hand feels that something is.. off.

But no, that's not the point.)

(A few awkward moments of silence)

(Wally glances at Susie)

(Susie is looking at her hands, like she's making sure it's still there or something.)

(Sammy glares a bit, then draws his eyes over to Thomas)

Sammy : Tom.

Thomas : What.

Sammy : Don't be late again.

Thomas : (surprised that's what all he had to say)

Sure.

(Sammy squints)

(Thomas takes this as a hint Sammy won't let him off easy next time.)

(Thomas eyes Susie, who's staring at Wally, who's staring at her.

It becomes a sudden blur.)

(He thinks something, but says nothing.)

(He takes a deep breath, then leaves without another word.)

(Sammy eyes him suspiciously)

(Wally says something to Susie, Sammy can't properly hear)

(Susie seems to shake her head)

(Wally stops then. He lowers his head. He suddenly impulsively grabs Susie and drags her outside.)

(Sammy watches)

(He walks off)

———

(In the same hallway from when Sammy and Jack fought. Susie speeds up her pace, walking briskly, her mind distracted by the recent situation)

Wally : Miss Campbell, you don't-

Susie : No!! (Denial)

No, no that's not what it is.

Wally : No, no no I don't mean-

I don't mean that.

Susie : What do you think I mean? (Snappish)

Wally : .....

Alice..

Susie : .....

Oh.

Wally : What I mean is that-

(pause)

No, you know what, I shouldn't be-

I mean, just because you.. have your connection with her.

...

It doesn't mean you have to run around, cleaning others' messes like Alice does, all the time.

Cut yourself some slack.

Susie : ....

(Sighs)

(Looks around, contemplates a bit. But she trusts Wally.)

They told me I was perfect for the role.

That's what they meant, wasn't it?

It's just..

I feel.. better.

Yes, better's the word.

I feel better when.. I'm voicing her.

It makes me feel like.. I have the ambition to do anything.

That I can solve any problem in the world.

That.. I'm.. an angel.

Is it not the right thing to do?

Wally : No, no that's not at all what I'm saying.

It's just.. (can't explain)

(Wally and Susie exchanges a glance.)

...

(Sighs)

Miss.. Campbell.

Susie : Yeah?

Wally : ...

I.. meant to say..

You should.. look after yourself too.

What's an angel if they don't take care of themselves?

(Susie caresses her hair slightly)

Susie : I..

(Sighs)

Wally : (taps his chin)

Hm.

Hey, how about we go out and get something.

Susie : You mean?

Wally : Just a little outing. Grab an ice cream or two maybe, or a meal. I mean, food usually gives me the cheers. Makes talking easier.

Like, a small break, call it hang out maybe.

Susie : W- Well, that'd be nice.

(Sighs)

It's just... packed, these days.

Wally : Oh, um, well, next week, perhaps?

Susie : No, uh..

(Sighs again) please don't.. think I don't want to.

Wally : No, it's fine!

I get it.

Susie : ...

(Lowers head)

I really wish I could go.

It's just- I'm booked up till..

(She pauses for a moment, thinking)

Oh dear, weeks.

Wally : Hey, it's alright!

Whenever you're ready!

Tag along a few if you'd like!

(He pauses too, thinking about Sammy and Thomas. But still. Susie's not him and he ain't gonna bother her with his problems.)

A company never hurts.

Susie : (snorts) Okay, Wally.

(Wally gives a cheeky smile)

(Susie pauses for a bit, thinking)

Susie : Y'know, I never really got to ask.

Wally : Ask away.

Susie : How'd you..

Wind up.. close, with me. Of all people.

(Wally thinks back)

Wally : Hum, well..

Fate's a strange thing!

Susie : That's-

Wally : (chuckles)

I'll tell you about it when we have more time.

Oh, I have a lot to tell.

Susie : Wally.. (playfully)

Wally : (smirks)

Ain't for a bad reason though, don't worry.

So, shall we hop back to our jobs?

Susie : I suppose it's time.

Wally : Well, I'm outta here then!

(Cap salute)

See you, miss Campbell!!

(Susie waves as Wally walks into the distance)

(Wally seems rather pleased)

(He whistles along)

(Suddenly, he walks into Thomas's back)

(Wally looks up)

Wally : Gee, sorry Thomas, I'd think you were a wall!

Thomas : ... (mutters something)

I guess slamming headfirst into a wall without looking.. is your thing?

Wally : It was just a joke.

Thomas : Yeah.

Wally : Yeah?

Thomas : Yeah. A joke.

Alright.

Wally : (....This is awkward)

Nice job back there-

Thomas : Mister Drew wants to see you (quickly)

Wally : Wha-?

Thomas : Mister Drew wants to see you, let's go.

Wally : Mister Drew wants to see me.

And you.

Thomas : Just you.

Wally : And I have to go with you because-?

Thomas : ...

Because he always needs me one way or the other.

Wally : Alright.

Thomas : ...

Let's go.

Wally : Mhm.

( Thomas stares at Wally for another second, then he starts walking. Wally follows.)

-Joey's office-

(Wally opens the door)

(Thomas doesn't enter)

(Joey looks up)

Joey : Wally!

(Notices Thomas behind)

Tom, if you'll excuse us.

Thomas : ...

Alright.

(Thomas shuts the door behind Wally)

(Wally awkwardly looks at Joey)

Wally : So.. am I in trouble?

Joey : Er, well.

Have a seat, first.

(Wally sits down)

Joey : You're..

Yes,

(Wally jolts)

But hold on-

From what I've heard.. you managed to fix the pump switch, by taking parts from another, right?

Wally : Yes.

(Joey leans back. He seems intrigued.)

Joey : Creative!

Wally : I'll take that as a complement.

Joey : You should!

It's nice to see people use creativity in other aspects of life.

Wally : (Heh)

Joey : Solve one problem creates another? Ha, I'd say this one was a success!

Wally : So.. am I still in trouble?

Joey : (Hah!) I'd say, you were.

But, this, well- proves you're still performing your best. I'm glad to see this company is still filled with bright visions and dreams as it was a decade ago.

Wally : (reminisces a bit) Oh, those were the good ol' days.

(Joey flinches, but keeps his face up) : Yes, it was.. quite nice!

Just.. though, as much as I appreciate your help and inventiveness, I don't think Sammy would appreciate another.. accident.

Wally : (grimaces) I don't think so too.

Joey : So, next time, maybe.. wait for Tom.

Wally : (chuckles) Well, I guess that's fair.

Joey : (haha)

Wally : I take it that I'm not outta here?

Joey : No, not at all.

Though, don't think I'll let you off easy every time.

I do take consideration! What's a boss without proper rules?

Wally : (nods, accepting)

Well, sorry for the trouble, but I think I better get back to cleaning.

What I do best!

(Joey nods approvingly)

(Wally stands up and begins to make his way towards the door)

(Joey thinks for a moment)

Joey : Oh! And, you've got today's papers?

(Wally pulls one out of his hat)

Wally : Yeah! You haven't got one?

Joey : No, unfortunately.

(Wally stares at him for a second. He then throws his on to Joey's desk.)

Wally : Have it. I'll find plenty more.

Joey : Well, thanks!

Wally : (chuckles) No problem!

I'm outta here!

(Joey watches as Wally walks out. He glares at the single newspaper atop his pile of whatnots.)

(He reaches over to look at headline : (ALICE ANGEL, THE BRIGHTEST STAR OF THE SHOW!)

Would Bendy be able to compete?)

(Joey takes a deep breath. He seems concerned.)

——-… Scene 6 : END....——-

Chapter Text

Recording studio

Susie practicing alone in the morning

(Susie finishes the song. She slowly moves the mic out of the way.)

(Susie walks out of the recording booth, pulling out a box of lozenges and eating one)

(She notices Jack sitting in the darkness, strumming a banjo. His eyes are wide staring at her, though hand still on the instrument)

(Susie approaches him)

Jack : Nice one.

Susie : Thank you.

Though- when did you come in?

(Susie walks briskly to the entrance door)

And why didn't you turn on the lights?

(A click, and the lights flood on)

Jack : I didn't think Mister Drew would appreciate that.

(The lights switches off again)

Susie : *sighs* you're right.

(Walks back in)

On a tight budget nowadays, huh?

Jack : Tell me about it.

Anyhow, an early practice routine?

Susie : Doesn't hurt to prep a little.

Jack : Sammy always said Alice has a charming voice.

A few rare times I get to hear her without a thousand instruments playing over.

Susie : (haha) Oh, well, glad I could give you a proper show.

I'm certainly happy to know I still have her charm.

Jack : Yeah.

....

(Jack stares at Susie with a concerned expression)

You've developed quite a bond with her.

Susie : ..

Something draws me to her, I can't quite explain why.

Jack : Ah, well, I see.

Susie : I'm delighted I can contribute to this company to my best, you know.

Jack : (smirks a bit) It's a special place for some of us, huh?

Susie : It sure is.

Didn't think I'd get to voice a special character such as Alice Angel, but I'm glad I didn't turn it down.

Jack : Well, we're all happy to have you in the department too.

(Susie looks at the banjo on Jack's lap)

Susie : For all these years here I never once saw you touch something else besides the violin.

Jack : That's my forte. (Smirks, moves the banjo aside)

But, well, changing things up now and then never hurts.

It's been a while since I've touched this thing.

Susie : (quite excitedly) Can I hear a song?

Jack : Huh?

Oh, geez, Uhm,

I don't think that's a good idea.

I'm real rough on the banjo.

Susie : I'll listen!

(Jack doesn't seem alright with that)

(Susie notices)

Susie : Oh.

Oh well, that's alright then.

Jack : ....

Listen, um.

If you're curious.

Susie : I am quite.

Jack : Swell-

...

I don't- mean to, you know.

Susie : Yeah.

Jack : ...

God, how do I explain this.

Sometimes I do wish other people could- notice me.

(Susie's eyes widens a bit in surprise, but she doesn't say anything)

(Jack pauses)

It's- something- when all you're known as is- "Sammy's lyricist"

Seeking out an opportunity, maybe get out of the shadows for once.

Stop hiding, y'know.

Susie : So, why not give that banjo a little strum?

Jack : Because it's not right. I've.. been so used to this role I play, I've had my fun.

(Susie flinches)

Jack : I don't mean to-

Susie : (chuckle) well, so that's why you wanted to help Sammy, isn't it?

Jack : I suppose that's what it became..?

Susie : (chuckles then goes to a sigh) It's a bit.. tense, suddenly now, don't you think?

Jack : I can see that.

Susie : I- I mean,

Oh, gee. Sammy's being overworked again, this whole machine deal, and the flooding too. And-

Jack : Yeah.

Susie : Gosh, it's a lot.

(Susie seems quite stressed)

Jack : ...

Hey, it's- it's not on you only.

Susie : (blankly stares somewhere)

(Heh) I suppose so.

Jack : You're not a lonely angel.

Susie : (chuckles) Nice one.

Jack : (snorts) That's my other forte.

Susie : Humor, huh.

Jack : I'm still teaching Sammy.

Susie : Ha!

Jack : ....

Oh, and also

I- well- one other question?

Susie : Go on.

Jack : Is it just me, or something's a little weird after that party?

Susie : (ponders)

You mean like, gut?

Jack : I guess so?

Susie : ....

No.. no.

I don't feel anything different.

Was it something you ate funny?

Jack : .. Hm, yeah, that's.. probably it.

(Reluctant)

(Jack looks up at the clock)

(Susie bolts up immediately as the lights flood on again, signaling someone has arrived besides them)

(Susie walks towards the entrance a bit, then turns around to look at Jack)

Susie : Well, good luck, Jack.

You have the talent too, you know.

(Sighs with a smile) I hope you get what you deserve someday.

(Jack nods)

—————

(Outside, music department entrance)

(An absolutely disheveled Sammy staggers out of the exit, light switch staircase)

Susie : Sammy! What happened?

Sammy : (exhales, exhausted) I'll go get ready.

Susie : Did you go home??

Sammy : ...... (he looks at Susie with an expression that says "I clearly didn't")

Susie : I take that as a no.

Sammy : Two mugs of coffee wasn't enough.

Susie : Then try sleeping.

Sammy : I- well.

(Sighs)

(Susie reaches over to push a small strand of loose hair)

(She pulls out a comb from her pocket)

Susie : Here.

Sammy : Thanks.

(Sammy walks away with Susie's comb. She smiles affectionately as he walks into the distance)

————-

(Music department, later, recording)

(Footsteps)

(The camera closes up on Joey's feet tapping into the music dept)

(Someone gets surprised, and hits the wrong notes)

(The other stops in curiosity)

(Sammy and Susie halt last)

(Joey stumbles slowly back a bit)

Joey : Jeez, I didn't give you a scare, did I?

Sammy : ...

What. Are. You doing here.

Joey : Dropping by- I haven't checked in on in a while. It's only right.

Sammy : (seethes in annoyance) Norman, had you not seen him?

Norman : No. I did not.

Joey : Ha, well, I'm sorry for the sudden surprise, but I'm glad to see y'all are still doing great!

Sammy : (irritated) Please, don't barge in like this. Again.

Joey : Haha, okay!

(Sammy has an unreadable expression again)

Joey : ...

Oh, don't be such a grouch.

I believe in you, Sammy!

Someone from the band : It's fine, Sammy. We'll just have to make it swift.

(Murmurs of mixed complaints and agreements)

Sammy : (sighs) I suppose so.

(Joey looks over at Susie, who's looking at the commotion quietly)

(He gives her a small thumbs up with a smile)

(Susie awkwardly smiles back)

(Commotion continues)

(Sammy looks at Joey, then back at the band)

(He claps his hands)

(The commotion halts)

Sammy : Joey.

Joey : Right, apologies.

Keep at it, everyone.

(Sammy turns around with a deadpan expression)

(Norman lets out a little chuckle from the projection booth)

———-

(Editing Department)

(Norman enters the department)

Carl : Norman Polk, right?

Norman : That's me.

Carl : Good, good.

(Sheepish chuckle)

Right this way.

(The two walks)

(In the projection booth)

(Carl shuts the door behind him. Norman walks to the other side to work on the projector)

(Rumbling noises)

Carl : Anything else you need?

Norman : (trailing off) Hum.. no.

(A bit more scurrying)

So, these are the ones?

Carl : Yup.

Norman : Right.

(He looks at them a bit)

Alice Angel, ey?

Carl : Yup.

Norman : (snorts) Well ain't Susie doing her job right.

Carl : How's she going?

Norman : (still busy) That gal's doing great over there.

Carl : Hm. Shows.

Norman : Yeah. She's an ambitious one.

Carl : I hear people keep calling her Alice.

Norman : She seems to love the name.

Carl : Suits her.

Norman : Yup.

Carl : Phil from animation has been going off 'bout how Alice has been everywhere.

Norman : Phil? Gee, has it been a while since I've heard from that boy.

Carl : You know him?

Norman : (cheeky smirk) I know a lot.

Carl : (uhhhh)

Norman : So what about Alice.

Carl : Oh, right.

It's just Phil going on about how there's been a conspicuously less amount Bendy work these days.

(Norman dumps a pile of reels onto the ledge)

Norman : Really?

Carl : Yes.

Norman : (Tch snorts) That little angel, all eyes on her.

(Norman picks up a reel)

Might as well go to Mister Drew and tell him to change things up, put Alice in the spotlight!

(Examines the reel)

Make her the main character, Susie would love that.

Carl : ..... (unamused)

Norman : (snorts at his own banter) Ah well.

—————

(Music Department, projection booth, a few days later)

Sammy : Is that thing working yet?

Norman : Yup, yup..

(He's underneath the ledge, rummaging things in his bag)

Sammy : Be back soon.

Norman : Huh?

(Realizing) Oh, no. Animation's not calling me in today.

Sammy : Swell.

Norman : (reminded about something)

Y'know, everybody's been buzzing 'bout Alice these days. She's the talk of the town- or the studio. (Ha!)

Sammy : And?

Norman : .... Congratulations?

Sammy : Oh.

It's all on Susie. Just tell her.

Norman : Well, figured you might've wanted to pass on the message.

(Norman stands up with a wink)

(Sammy stares at him, then lets out a small, humorless laugh)

Sammy : Right you are.

Norman : Wow. You actually played along. (Deadpan)

Sammy : (sighs in a manner of 'here we go again')

Just get that projector ready.

Norman : Alright.

Speaking of which, where's Susie?

Sammy : Went out with Joey.

To a.. cartoon premiere, I believe.

Norman : (intrigued) Huh, well, good for her.

(The door to the projection booth opens)

Jack : Sammy, Joey needs you-

Oh, hey Norman.

Sammy : ....

(Sammy walks out without another word)

Norman : Should I-? (Motioning towards the projector)

Jack : Just leave it on. He'll be back in twenty minutes at max.

—————

(A local theatre, on stage)

(Joey walks in front of the curtain)

(Audience applauding)

Joey : Thank you, everyone, for joining us tonight on the premiere of the latest cartoon of ours "Siren Serenade"!

(Small clapping sound)

Now, for our very special guest tonight, you know her, you love her!

Susie Campbell, the voice of Alice Angel herself!!

(Audience cheers)

(Susie walks up on to the stage as Joey motions)

Joey : Give us a word or two, Susie?

Susie : (smiles) I'm very honored to be here today!! I-

Some kid from the crowd : It's Alice Angel!!!

Someone else : Great job, ma'am!!!

Someone : May we have a song??

(Susie's surprised and flattered)

Joey : Well, Susie..

Or Alice! Seems like the audience wants a song!

(Susie beams)

Susie : (Alice voice) Thank you, thank you all!

(A cheer)

Shall we begin?

(Susie begins to sing, the spotlight on her. Joey smiles widely as he slowly makes his way off the stage. Once off-stage, though, his demeanor changes. He seems concerned about something, pondering.)

A shadow behind the curtains : Joey!!

Joey : -! You came?

(Nathan Arch promptly shuffles out of the darkness)

Nathan : Of course, why wouldn't I?

Joey : (Hah) Very funny.

Nathan : (snide smile)

So, how'd the deal go?

Joey : (oh, that)

Kept in contact!

Nathan : That's good.

Joey : (sighs) It's progress, it's progress.

Nathan : (heh) I hope you succeed with... whatever you have in mind.

Joey : Yeah.

I'll need all the luck I can get, Nate.

Nathan : (tch) considering your streak, I wouldn't be surprised.

Joey : Well, I hope that holds.

Nathan (trails his eyes towards the stage) : ...It's been a while since I've seen.. Susie? That's her name, right?

Joey : Susie Campbell, best voice actress around.

Nathan : You're lucky to have her.

Joey : I know, Nate, I know.

(Joey's lost in his thoughts as he watches Susie. Her image in his mind's eye becomes Alice for a moment.)

(Joey squints)

Nathan (snapping Joey out of his thoughts) : Well, you've always been the one to find the finest people, huh?

Joey : Huh-? (Realizing)

Oh, yes. You know how it works.

(Nathan, in fact, does not)

Nathan : (hearty laugh) Enlighten me someday.

Joey : Tight schedules Nate, tight schedules.

(Nathan looks at his watch, then notices Susie coming off the stage)

Nathan : There's your angel.

(Still doesn't leave)

Joey : Oh, Susie! How was it?

Susie : It was lovely, oh, Mister Drew, thank you so much for bringing me here today.

Joey : (smirks) It was a pleasure!

Susie : (deep breath) For a moment there, I really felt like I was Alice.

It felt.. amazing.

...

Oh.. (smiles)

(Joey doesn't say anything. He only stares at Susie.)

Nathan (very deadpan blatant) : You're quite obsessed with her, aren't you?

(Joey eyes Susie)

Susie (flinches) : Well, if that's the word to call it.

Although, I'm certain doing that for the job is a contributing factor.

Wouldn't you agree, Mister Nathan Arch?

Nathan : Ah, so you remember me. (Satisfied)

Susie : I do. (Strained)

Nathan : From.. (unsure, trying to jog his memories)

Joey : -the last time you visited.

Nathan : ...

Oh, of course!

Susie : (slightly suspicious death glare)

Nathan : Nevertheless, that was indeed an outstanding performance.

Susie : Thank you. (Dryly)

Joey : ....

(A few moments of silence between the three)

Nathan : (haha) Ah, well, I've overstayed my welcome. I'll take my leave.

Good-bye, Susie.

(Nathan finally walks off)

Joey : ..... (he thinks)

Come on, let's go.

Susie : (inhales) Alright.

————

(Ink Machine chamber.)

(Thomas is with the ink machine. He's pouring a few buckets of ink into it)

(The door creaks open)

Joey : Tom!

Thomas : (sighs) Be right there.

(Thomas walks to Joey)

(Joey looks at a large pile of papers and the ink machine's blueprint on a work table)

Joey : How's it going?

Thomas : No successful attempts.. as of now.

Unfortunately.

(Joey rummages through the pile of papers)

(Thomas stares unsurely)

Joey : On a serious note, when will this actually be progressing?

Thomas : I told you I don't-

(Joey slams the table with the paper)

Joey : I'm sorry, Tommy, but I've been patient enough. Sure, good things come to those who wait, but in this industry, there's something called a deadline.

Thomas : I-

Joey : Either you get this thing DONE, or we might have to try other unconventional methods, which I reckon would only cause more unnecessary inconveniences.

Thomas : (Flinches for a moment) (under breath) Yeah.

Joey : ... (takes a deep breath)

Don't you understand, Tom?

The audience have been waiting for something new, something exciting! I know this is what they've been waiting for, I know this is what we're all waiting for.

(Thomas tights his grip)

I didn't pay you to come here and tinker around all day.

(Thomas' expression is strange, a hint of fear, and annoyance in one, yet practically indiscernible.)

Joey : ...(breathes)

It's time I provide a deadline.

Thomas : Mister Drew-

Joey : One month, Tommy.

One month, is the best I can give.

(Thomas' eyes seem to widen. One dang month, until- until whatever Joey's gonna do)

Thomas : One month-?

Joey : One month, dish out the cartoons I paid for, or..well, ..

Thomas : -Don't. even. say it (snappish)

Joey : .... Sure.

Thomas : It. Will. Work. I will get it to work, just don't- (Blurting out of literal panic)

Joey : -I sure hope it will.

Thomas : (opens his mouth to say something, but doesn't. He seems to start be able to compose himself now.)

Joey : ....

If you have something to say, let's schedule a proper meeting.

Thomas : (mocking snort) Like this isn't the most secured place in the studio.

Joey : Good point.

But I'd rather have an honest talk.

Thomas : (grunts) ...

.. No. It wasn't-

... anything important.

Joey : ...

In that case,

I'll leave you and your work be.

(He backs towards the door)

A reminder, Tom : one month.

(The door shuts gently)

(Thomas stood perfectly still for a few moments, trying to process what he just heard)

(Amidst the chaotic choice of words he blurted out without thinking)

(Tom POV :

One. Month.

..)

(He pulls his hair band apart, letting his hair down)

(One month, Thomas.

You can do this.

...

You have to do this.

Or.... )

(Suddenly thinks about The Ink Demon chained up)

(Thomas grits his teeth. That thing was his creation. He made it nonetheless, and he can't even let it roam free. Because he made a monster.)

(He looks at the bulletin board in front of him.)

(He takes a deep breath, and sighs)

(Still hair down : Thomas exits the ink machine chamber, carefully locking it behind him and making his way out of the hallways)

(Susie passes by)

(She recognizes him)

Susie : Oh, Thomas!

Thomas : Miss Campbell-

Susie : -I don't think I've ever properly thanked you!

Thomas : Oh-

Susie : Well, for all your hard work over at Music, I owe you one.

Thomas : Yeah, um-

Susie : (sheepish chuckle) Sorry about the frequent.. malfunctions too.

(Realizing)

Oh, no I didn't mean-

Thomas : It's alright.

Susie : .....

(Sighs sheepishly) Sorry.. Sammy could be a bit of grump sometimes. Don't mind him, he's been- a bit busy nowadays.

Thomas : Yup- it's fine. (Half sarcastic)

Susie : Oh! Wanna head over to the lounge? Grab something to eat?

I'll pay! Just consider it a little token of appreciation.

Thomas : No, (pauses) it's alright

Susie : Oh?

Well, thank you nevertheless.

Thomas : Mhm. Anytime.

(Susie walks away, waving with a small smile)

(Thomas seems uneasy. Something doesn't feel right.)

——————

(Unknown location, Joey Drew Studios)

(Susie Campbell stares at an empty tape recorder, before clicking to record)

(TAPE CLICKS ON)

Susie : *sighs*

[LOG OF SUSIE CAMPBELL "OBSESSION"]

"Obsession, hm?

..

Don't put much of a thought into it, Susie.

Those little mentions..

Why doesn't any of them understand?

Alice is a part of me. Every time I voice her, I give it my all, I pour my heart and soul into her. I am her.

And she's now in the spotlight. She's getting what she deserves.

And it's because of me.

(Smirks)

They call me Alice Angel.

And they say I'm obsessed.

Why don't they understand?

I'm literally trying to help them. Alice is the ideal gal, Mister Drew said it himself, didn't he?

She can sing, she can dance... everything she does is flawless.

She's angelic, she's strong, dynamic and intelligent.

Traits that are loved by all.

And I..

...

Why can't I just say it aloud? WHY- CAN'T I JUST-!?! (Frustration)

...

... be her?

(Pants. A small tear drips off. She's angry, frustrated with herself, and others too.)

(She glances at a nearby poster)

Oh, Alice, if only you were real..

If only I could meet, and chat with you. Oh, how'd that be a dream!

If.. if only I was actually you.

(Sighs)

(Alice voice) 'I got a bright little halo, and I'm filled with love... I'm Alice Angel!'

(Deep breath)

'Dreams come true, Susie'

'Dreams come true'

[CLICK]

————————

[A small ink stain has appeared underneath the tape]

————————-

[Susie stares at a poster of Alice Angel, lost in her thoughts]

————————-

[Somewhere else, Joey Drew is also staring at Henry's drawing, framed on the wall, in a similar manner to Susie]

———....Scene 7 : END.... ———-

Chapter Text

(Music Department, Projection Booth entrance)

(A bunch of films rolls down the stairs)

(It hits Susie's foot)

(She backs a bit)

(Susie picks it up)

Norman : Oh god-

Susie : Here you go!

(Picks up a few disarrayed films)

(Norman takes it, but Susie doesn't let go for a moment)

Norman : Thanks.

(Susie releases her grip)

(Susie remains silent for a moment)

Susie : Alice Angel, huh?

Norman : (dry chuckle) Yup.

Susie : (smirks)

Norman : ...

Well, who's making her so popular?

Susie : (rather too quickly) Is there a problem?

Norman : .. No..

(Sigh-chuckle) (shakes his head) Just a remark.

Susie : Oh-

(Silence)

(The two stares in silence for a bit longer. Then Susie starts walking away without another word.)

(Norman looks at her as she walks away)

(Susie makes her way to Sammy's office)

(Laying her hand on the knob, she realizes it's locked. A curtain was thrown sloppily over the window. She can't see what's inside.)

(Susie lets go of the knob. She sighs.)

(Wally walks over to punch in his work)

(He notices Susie)

Wally : Need keys? (A jingle)

Susie : No, it's alright.

I'll let him be.

Wally : Okay then.

Susie : .....

(She briskly makes her way towards the recording booth)

(She perches herself atop of the chair located inside)

(Susie pulls out her box of lozenges)

(A piece of paper also gets stuck with it)

(Susie unfolds it)

(It's the Alice drawing from Joey)

(Susie stares at it)

(She smiles, relished)

Susie : He says it all the time.

"Dreams come true"

..

Susie.

"Dreams come true."

——————————

(Sammy's office)

(Sammy is in his office. A pile of notebooks is stacked beside him)

(His hand touches his forehead)

(He sighs)

Sammy : (Heh) Give Joey two weeks before he starts serving up his usual round of horrible management again.

(A humorless chuckle)

Give it all you've got, Sammy, they're all watching.. (sarcastic)

(He reaches for his pen.

Susie's comb gets knocked into the bin)

Sammy : (a murmur) hm?

(He looks into the bin)

Sammy : Susie..

(He reaches for the comb, and stuffs it in his pocket.)

(Sammy sits back down once again)

(He looks at one of his old diary tapes)

(Sammy taps his pen, thinking)

(He then reaches over and plays the tape from 1935)

(Sammy listens to it quietly, but once it starts to hit "that smile, something's wrong with that smile" his vision goes blurry, the audio starts to blur, and a weird static arises)

("Shake it off, Sammy, best get back to your songs."

He snaps back to reality again)

Sammy : Yes. (Trailing off)

...

I was right.

...

There's no time for.. petty thoughts, Sammy.

Get back to it.

Get the job done.

....

Keep the little devil happy.

(Snorts)

Both of them.

————————

(Joey's office entrance)

(The door creaks open as Jack exits Joey's office)

Norman : Hello-

Jack : OH JESUS-

(A pant, then a breath)

Hey! (Strained)

Norman : (snorts and lets out a laugh)

Jack (slightly annoyed) : What's up?

Norman : Just wanted to check in on.

Jack : Me? Of all people?

Norman : Coffee chats always has the best tea.

Jack : (haha) Clever wordplay.

(Pauses thinking) Mind if I use that?

Norman : Go ahead.

(Jack pulls out a notepad and his pencil tucked behind his ear)

(He scribbles quietly)

(Realizing Norman is still watching)

(Starts walking)

Jack : (Heh) What do you even get from.. snooping around so much, Norman?

(Norman follows)

Norman : A lot of things, if you'd give it a try.

Jack : (snorts) Alright, then.

Norman : (cuts in) On a serious note, Susie.

Jack : (surprised) What's there to be so serious about her?

Norman : -

She's been doing great.

Jack : And?

Norman : -Too great.

Jack : Well then, good for her.

Norman : I don't know, Jack. Something doesn't feel right.

Jack : ........

(Thinks about the time he saw Thomas and Joey in the sewers, but doesn't mention it)

Mhm.

Norman : How this whole.. "Alice is getting more popular" deal..?

(Stops)

(Jack continues walking, scribbling on his notepad)

Norman : Does that not faze you at all?

Jack : Kinda saw it coming.

Norman : Mister Drew would blow his lid off if that little devil doesn't get the spotlight.

Jack : (snorts) I don't think he'd be that petty. (Chuckle)

Norman : (sighs)

Jack : (pauses)

-Susie deserves her role.

It's been- what? Thirteen years- ? Mister Drew knew what he was doing hiring her.

Norman : (silent)

Yeah.

He did.

Jack : ..

Listen, I'm-

I'm happy for her, alright? She has always done a fine job, she deserves it.

Norman : .....

Yeah.

I suppose so.

(The two remains quiet for a bit)

Jack : .... (His face contorts awkwardly)

Well, then, thanks for the lyrics.

(Curtly) See you.

(Norman stands there for a few moments, thinking)

(Suddenly, a voice)

Susie : Hello!

Norman : (slightly surprised) Oh, hey Susie.

Susie : What brings you up here?

Norman : (quickly) The usual.

Susie : Oh, well then.

Norman : And you?

Susie : Oh- (chuckle) Mister Drew called me over.

Norman : Swell. (Deadpan)

Susie : ....

Well, I better get going.

Norman : Yeah.

Susie : ...

(She turns around on her heels, and casually walks into Joey's office)

———————

(Joey's office)

(Joey isn't in his seat and is just about to sit down)

Joey : Alice!

Susie : Hello, Mister Drew! (Cheery)

Joey : Have a seat!

Oh, and here's some warm tea. Helps with the throat!

Susie : (sliding into her seat) Why, thank you!

(Susie takes a small sip)

Joey : I don't really know.. which works, so I just grabbed the first I saw.

Susie : (chuckles) It's lovely, don't worry.

Joey : Well, I'm glad to hear!

(A moment of silence)

Susie : So, the matter you'd like to discuss about-

Joey : Ah! Yes! (Claps)

Sorry, I tend to forget- after all-

(He stands up and pulls his chair aside to the right side of the wall)

(A piece of paper is covering it. He motions for Susie to come over, and she does)

(He dramatically pulls away the paper, revealing a framed cartoon drawing of everyone at the new year feast, in cute little poses of their owns.)

(Signed by Joey)

(Susie seems astonished)

Joey : -surprises are better waited.

(Her character has a little halo and horns just like Alice)

(He watches Susie as she caress the frame lovingly)

Like it? I figured it suited you.

Susie : (giddy) It's adorable!

(Joey chuckles)

Joey : Sh, keep it a secret from the rest for now (he walks back to his seat and motions for her to follow)

Now I've got y'all on my wall to remind me of this company's talent!

Susie : (suddenly nervous) And what if that changes..?

Joey : (pauses)

(Then laughs) I don't think that'll change anytime soon, especially with you, Alice! (He points at her) Your wonderful performance is enough to convince me that I've picked the right people.

Susie : (flattered) Thank you.

Joey : You deserve that title, Alice, you really do.

Susie : (chuckles in a flattered tone)

Joey : Employee of the year AND Alice Angel herself.

Thank you for sticking with the studio throughout all these years, Alice.

Susie : It's been a pleasure!

Everyday is such a surprise here, I wouldn't have chosen anywhere else to voice act at!

Joey : (smiles) I'm glad this studio has been a second home to you as it has been to me.

Susie : Well, that's what you said, right? "Studio family"

Joey : (chuckles) A family.

-I'm... delighted to know many hold this place so dearly in their hearts.

Susie : (she's very ecstatic)

Joey : (cont'd) (Heh) Though- I don't think you'll appreciate a reminiscing session right now.

Time is money, after all.

Susie : -(pause) Oh, well- I'd love to hear it someday.

Joey : No.. it's quite alright.

Susie : (oh) Okay.

(Joey stares at Susie, like scrutinizing her seriously)

(He then begin to speak)

Joey : Seriously though, Alice.

(GENUINE)

To have someone like you, who understands my vision.

(A long pause for Susie to have a reaction, Joey does hand gestures)

To know and love these characters, to really get into them like I do, is astonishing.

(Another brief pause)

Having you with us is like a gift sent from above.

(Susie goes silent)

(Susie's thoughts begin to speak aloud in her mind

"That doesn't sound right. Th- that's.. something's just not right, ..but what!?

Is he asking more of me?

Had I not given my all yet?

No, get a grip of yourself..!

.......

Maybe.. maybe he's telling the truth.

Just....

....")

(Susie collects herself. She smiles in a charming manner.)

Susie : Thank you, Mister Drew.

That... really means a lot to me.

Joey : (smiles warmly back)

Oh, and I have yet to properly congratulate you on your recent success too!

Susie : (sighs, exhilarated)

(She doesn't say anything, but grabs the cup of tea and takes another sip again)

Joey : ...

Is everything alright?

Susie : (breathes)

Yes, it's all good.

Joey : Ah, well. (Senses she's lying)

Would it be best if you go back to the music department?

Susie : (dryly) Yes, that sounds lovely.

(Joey walks over to open the door)

(Susie looks over and gets up from her seat)

Joey : Oh, and if it's not too much of a bother, tell Wally to go meet up with Tom later today please?

Susie : (back to herself now) No worries at all!

Joey : Thanks!

(Susie shuts the door)

(Joey's demeanor shifts suddenly. He stares down at a drawing of Bendy on his table.)

——————

(Near the Ink Machine Chamber)

(Footsteps)

(Thomas is writing on the ink input chart)

(He pops the marker lid close. It was ink.

It was ink as well.)

Wally : Thomas?

Thomas : Yeah?

Wally : Mister Drew- or- Miss Campbell, technically- she told me to meet up with you.

(Thomas tries to recall)

Thomas : Oh, yeah.

I.. figured we needed to have a proper talk.

...

'Bout the machine.

(He starts walking to the door)

(Wally opens the door for him)

Wally : Let's go.

(Thomas doesn't say anything. He enters and Wally shuts the door behind him.)

——————-

(The balcony over the ink machine)

Wally : She's huge up close.

Thomas : Yeah.

(Thomas immediately tries to distract himself by doing other things)

Since you were assigned as the attendant..

Wally : Mhm.

Thomas : (pause) And after that stunt with the pipes-

I have to make sure you know what you're doing.

Wally : (deadpan) I've seen enough.

Thomas : Properly.

(Thomas pulls out a wrench)

Wally : So, how does this thing actually works?

Thomas : ..... (doesn't reply, completely ignores)

Wally : (notices)

Ah, well.

(Thomas starts rummaging through a trunk)

(A long drawn out period of silence)

Wally : (wants to chat)....So, have you been catching up?

Thomas : With?

Wally : Alice.

Alice Angel.

Thomas : Yeah. I've heard.

Wally : Whaddya think?

Thomas : (still distracted) Good for her, I suppose.

Wally : Boy, Thomas, if you could see Miss Campbell in action.

Thomas : Hm?

Wally : When she records, Thomas.

Thomas : (a murmur)

Wally : (cont'd) -She's pretty swell. Knows what she's doing.

(Thomas suddenly remembers Joey's statement)

Thomas : That's good.

(Pauses)

...

(He tries to focus on what Wally had said, but his mind is a blur)

Wally : Yup.

(Thomas finally puts his head up, his hand holding a single gear (the same one in the ritual room))

Wally : (curious) What's that?

Thomas : (dismissive) Loose gear.

Wally : Oh.

Thomas : So, you were saying?

Wally : ?

Thomas : About Susie.

Wally : Oh,

Just wanted to get you up-to-date with the studio.

(Thomas approaches Wally in a little unsettling manner now, interest piqued)

Thomas : Yeah. Well, what's with her.

Wally : As I've said already, Alice.

Thomas : Anything else? (pressing)

Wally : No?? (Surprised)

Thomas, is everything fine? Why are you suddenly-

Thomas : (overlapping) Yes- it's nothing-

...

I-

(Thomas's thoughts :

Oh god- would he? She- she sounds like a candidate-

No, Thomas what are you thinking!? No- no shut up!! That's- that's just absurd. Mister Drew wouldn't- )

Wally : (cuts in) Thomas?

Thomas : (a deep breath)

(A brief pause. He looks at Wally and the latter looks back.)

Wally, we'll go over the proper protocol tomorrow.

Wally : Thomas, it's fine- got a lot of time, and-

Thomas : Go.

Please.

Wally : I- uh-

(.....)

Okay then?

(He backs against the door once again)

...I'm outta here!?

(Thomas seems distraught. He's trying to calm himself down.)

(Wally slips out the door.)

(The door shuts)

———————————

(A clap)

(Music department, recording stu)

(Commotion fades in as the recording finishes)

(Susie watches as the music dept scurries out of the recording studio, eager to go do their next errand)

(She watches them for a bit, then turns around to grab an Alice Angel record)

(Without anyone watching, she makes her way to the projection booth, where no one is there. She quietly puts the record into the gramophone that is kept there.)

(She listens to it as she smirks to herself.)

Susie : (a low whisper) That'll need some work.

(She places a hand on the spinning record to stop it forcefully, then just slides it off)

—————-

(Animation Department)

(Bill is once again, complaining to Phil, and also trying to get Phil to look at his drawings of Alice that Bill thinks are very crappy)

Bill : Phil..

Phil : Goodness, what is it now?

Bill : You said this wouldn't last a few weeks.

Phil : Then what!? Is it that big of a deal!?

Bill : Have you seen how I draw Alice!? At this rate I'd get fired!

Phil : Christ, Bill, just stick to the background characters.

Bill : Any tips?

Phil : I'd give you'em, but not now with this deadly deadline!!

Bill : Phil, how are you even taking this!?

Phil : (I'm about to lose my shit) Talk less, draw more!

Bill : Oh my god-

Phil : That's my line.

Bill : ..

Phil : I'm not some head, okay!? Again, if you have a complaint, go to Mister Drew! Or Miss Lambert!

(Phil turns his back to Bill)

Bill : ...

Phil : Listen, Danton- you're not a bad artist!

Bill : I know. (Bluntly)

Phil : (a brief pause)

(That wasn't the response he expected)

Good then, work!

(Bill turns away)

(Suddenly, Joey shows up)

Phil : Mister Drew-

———————-

[THE INK]

"SUSIE CAMPBELL,

A TALENTED YOUNG WOMAN..

Oh, Alice- that's what people call you, right?

You're so interesting.. so different! I'm an instant fan, Alice!

Your obsession- your desire for perfection- it all culminates greatly into the character you play till this very day, Alice.

After all, I've seen Alice's getting quite the attention these days.

Henry would be proud, Alice.

He would be.

..

I didn't realize-

well-

I didn't think-

(The end of the voice is distorted)

-I never thought!

But it worked!

It worked and..

I'm honored to be of service, Alice Angel."

—————————

(Susie is standing silently in the recording booth. She's looking in the faint reflection of the glass, her hand shaking. She touches her head gently, but remain silent.

-Susie composes herself.

-the recording booth's door is plastered with Alice's poster. It slowly zooms on it.)

————————-

(At administration, Sammy is standing in front of Joey's office door, staring at himself in the reflection of the glass door.)

————.....Scene 8 : END.....————-

Chapter Text

(Sammy enters the room and takes a seat)

(Joey slides over a mug of coffee)

Joey : Always right on time!

Sammy : Of course.

(Joey takes a sip)

Joey : Sorry for the recent tight schedule.

Sammy : (unreadable, but tight-lipped) Yeah. It's alright.

Joey (chuckles)

Sammy : (NOT FUNNY expression)

Joey : ..

I think you know why I called you in today.

Sammy : As a matter of fact, I do not.

Joey : ... (thinks)

Well,

There's something rather serious needed to be discussed.

(Reaches for the pile of papers next to him)

Sammy : Go on. (Takes another swig)

Joey : Well, you know how Alice's popularity has been going through the roof?

(Slides over Alice's newspaper from earlier)

Sammy : (looks at it) Of course.

Joey : ..

It's uh..

Not easy for me to say this..

(A brief pause.

He lays back in his chair.)

But Bendy, well, Bendy might be losing his popularity.

Sammy : And?

Joey : ...

We're going to have to put Bendy in the spotlight again.

Susie's far too devoted to stop Alice's popularity from growing.

Sammy : (impatient) Get to the point, what are you trying to say?

Joey : We have to replace Susie.

Sammy : !

Joey : I know, this sounds absurd.

Sammy : Indeed.

Who could act Alice better than Susie?

Joey : ....

Sammy : No one.

Joey : That's the point.

Unfortunately, we might have to sacrifice something to solve a problem.

Sammy : No.

Joey : Listen-

Sammy : You told me I'm allowed to choose my own people.

It's in the contract.

Joey : ...

(Sammy is still up with his ice cold deadpan expression. The two exchange a glare.)

Sammy.

You helped contribute to the success of this studio.

And she also did.

But we're in a crisis here, we must do something.

Sammy : (snorts) A crisis, alright.

Joey : I'm serious, Sammy! Investors wants what they paid for, and it ain't Alice cartoons.

Sammy : (still doesn't get it) So you're afraid to admit Bendy's not good enough-

Joey : That is not what I mean.

(Sammy tries to speak up but Joey quickly cuts in)

Sammy.

This is for the better of the company.

Sammy : ...

Joey : Would you pick one person's rather too.. well.. contribution over risking losing our entire business?

Sammy : ...

Joey : Listen, the choice is yours.

We always have a choice and I'm allowing you to make yours.

Just consider-

(Tape cuts off)

[INK]

[H- huh?

Why?]

(Scene cuts)

(Quiet footsteps as Susie walks)

(Susie walks into the recording studio as per usual. Something is not right. All eyes are on her, but it's not the same anymore.)

(Her expression fixates on an uneasy one)

(Susie notices Jack standing in the corner, reading a note)

Susie : Jack-?

Jack : Oh!

Oh..

Oh no.

(He doesn't know what to say)

Susie : Are you alrig-

(Susie turns to see Sammy looking at Allison, who's holding a piece of paper)

(Susie briskly walks over, rather eager to meet a new employee)

Susie: Sammy- who's she? (Cheery)

(Allison nervously waves)

(Sammy doesn't meet Susie's eyes.)

Sammy: ..

(This is the game Joey's playing isn't he?)

(A deep breath, then looks directly at Susie)

Susie, this is .. Allison Pendle. She will be the new voice of Alice Angel.

Susie: ....

.....

(The whole department falls quiet for a few moments)

Susie: You.. you're kidding, right?

Sammy: ...... (does it look like I'm kidding kind of face)

Susie: (silent for a few moment, then quickly becomes enraged, and hurt) Sammy. SAMMY!? You- you told me-, you were impressed, just a few days ago, and, now, what, you're just going to replace me with someone else!?! Excuse me!?

Sammy: (difficultly) It wasn't- my - choice!!

Susie: You knew how much this role meant to me, and you still replaced me!!? I did everything in my power- I care about this role, I care about this department!!

(Tears rolls down her cheeks)

Sammy: JUST- LISTEN- TO ME!

(Susie goes quiet.)

Sammy: This whole thing was Joey's decision, and I can't defy his orders.

I can arrange you a meeting with him if you believe this demotion isn't fair.

Please don't cause a scene in my department. We're trying to work here.

(A brief pause)

Susie: ....

You.. you don't know how much Alice means to me, do you?

She's a part of me, Sammy.

I'm Alice Angel.

(Grabs his collar and drags near. Sammy lets her do it.)

"Your Angel is always watching, Sammy.

Joey's decision? (A quiet cry that morphs into a chuckle. It lasts a bit.)" (A low whisper)

Sammy's eyes widen. He understands exactly what Susie is talking about.

[Cuts back to the end of the conversation (tape starts)]

Joey : We make Bendy cartoons, not Alice cartoons.

Sammy : ...

Joey : I really hate to say this, but I really don't think this studio could go on if Alice steals the spotlight.

Someone needs to keep that little grinning demon on the stage.

Sammy : ..... (Sammy seems to be thinking)

Joey :(sees that Sammy is understanding now) It'll be fine.

Just go home and rest and I'll carefully break the news to her.

Sammy : ...

If this really is for the better of the company,

Fine.

I'll be watching.

(He leaves the room)

(Sammy feels his blood boil. He's also trying to contribute to the company, and in his eyes Susie's just making a fuss over something fictional)

Sammy:.. Why-

Why, just, why are you so desperately obsessed with a fictional character?!!???

(Pushes Susie's hand out of his collar rather harshly)

Susie. Alice's- just- a cartoo-

(A hand slaps Sammy across his face)

(It was Susie)

(Susie looks up, tear-filled eyes and an open palm. She shivers as her eyes widen, realizing what she just did)

Susie: I..

(She speeds out of the department)

(Allison face pales as she attempts to run after Susie, but Sammy grabs her, albeit one hand still on his cheek)

Sammy: You'll have plenty of time later. Back to recording.

Now.

(Allison is unsure, and more than ever perplexed, but follows)

Joey's standing at the entrance of the music department as Susie rushes past him, not noticing. He quietly walks another way, not saying anything)

(The scene cuts back to Sammy standing at his conductor stand as the room begins to mingle. He leans over onto the stand, grasping his head as his expression turns to fearfully shocked. Norman and Jack both notice his behavior and mentally notes it down.

Jack watches from afar, his eyebrows scrunching in uncomfortableness)

(The scene cuts to black abruptly, and light suddenly shines into the room as Joey opens the door to his office. He reaches for his notebook and a pen, and begins to write down.

"Untrusted")

(Sammy's desk)

(The door slams shut by Jack)

(Sammy walks quickly, not looking at Jack who follows behind)

Jack : (aghast) What the hell was that!?

Sammy : (irritated) I told you to not follow me.

Jack : And leave you alone like this!?

Sammy : (puts foot down) I NEED SOME TIME, GET OUT!!!

Jack : (a brief pause)

(He slowly backs away, but still facing Sammy's back)

Not until you tell me you're going to have a chat with Susie after this.

Sammy : (sarcastic mocking) Do you think she wants to see me right now!?

Jack : I said after.

Sammy : Well then pass on the message for me, will you!?

Jack : ....

(Thinks)

(Quietly)

No.

Clean up your own mess.

Sammy : (chuckles dryly)

Are you afraid, Jack?

Jack : NO- No- I'm not-

Sammy : Get out.

Jack : ...

Sammy : GET OUT!!!

(Jack dashes outside. The door slams shut once again.)

(A knocking sound)

Sammy : ....

(The knocking ceases)

(The door unlocks open)

Sammy : Joey-

(SCENE CUTS)

(Thomas is at the machine's lower dock)

(He's standing, seemingly anxious. He keeps staring at the blueprint on his worktable)

(The door creaks open)

Thomas : Wally-

Wally : (bluntly, straight to the point) Susie got replaced.

Thomas : What?

(Wally power walks in, starts grabbing tools)

Wally : Miss Campbell got replaced, end of story.

-

That aside, Thomas. About that- proper protocol thing..?

Thomas : (quickly) Who fired her?

Wally : People are saying it's Sammy, but.. doesn't sound right to me.

Those two got something goin' on. Ain't no way he'd, y'know.

You be the judge.

Thomas : (realizing)

Mister Drew.

Wally : Probably.

(With difficulty) Don't- understand why- though..

Thomas : ....

Oh god.

Wally : Thomas?

Thomas : Wally, where's Susie.

Wally : What?

Thomas : Where. Is. Susie.

Wally : Think she took the rest of the day off..

Thomas : ... (stunned)

(A sort of drowned out noise, prolonged static arises)

Wally : Thomas-

THOMAS!!

Thomas : Huh!? Oh.. oh no.

Wally : Thomas, do you.. wanna sit down?

Thomas : Yeah..

..yeah I think I might..

Wally : Okay.

...

You still wanna..

Thomas : Later.

I'm sorry.

Wally : Yeah.

It's fine.

(Wally suddenly shifts his demeanor. He seems to look a bit more grim now.)

Thomas : ... (stares directly at Wally)

(Wally realizes) : Oh-

I'll just- go now.

(INK)

(Where is she..?

...

I can't see her.)

(A series of whispers. It slowly increases in volume into a well of voices.)

(SCENE CUT)

(Projector screen)

Norman : ...

Jack : Y- you-...

Norman : Didn't think he'd actually..

Jack : Jesus Christ.

Norman : ...I figured.

Jack : I can't believe-

Norman : That boss makes wild decisions.

Jack : You think it's the right decision?

Norman : I dunno, Jack.

I don't know.

Jack : (hesitates)

Do you actually believe- well- Mister Drew- replaced her?

Norman : .....

(Static)

(SCENE CUT)

(Wally is at the same bin from earlier. He wraps it up and stares at the same Alice Angel poster Susie used to look at.)

(He sighs, and wraps his things up)

(As he walks away, he sees Susie's obsession log laid on a counter nearby. He contemplates for a moment, then takes the tape with him. Walks towards the entrance.)

(He looks at the empty halls one last time, before disappearing around the corner, and darkness floods the halls once again.)

(The shot then zooms in on to a clock, that ticks, and ticks, then speeds up to indicate that it is the next day.)

(Allison walks into the music department. A lot of people are staring at her in rather wonder. She sighs, knowing this'll last a few weeks.

Allison : ....

(Allison looks around the department. Anything to distract her, anyone to talk to.)

(Notices Norman who's not looking at her. An unfamiliar one.)

Allison : (quickly approaches) Hello!

Norman : (not startled) Oh, hey. (Somewhat of a friendly expression enough.)

Allison : I don't think we got to meet properly yet!

Norman : (he stares peculiarly at Allison)

Think I've met you before, though.

Allison : Oh? Well- that's lovely!

Apologies I don't recognize you.

Norman : (a dry laugh) No worries.

Allison, hm? Made quite the impression.

Allison : (a weary expression)

Norman : (snorts) (then a small laugh)

(Allison awkwardly stares for a moment)

Allison : Norman Polk, right?

Norman : (stops laughing) That's me alright.

Allison : Well, a pleasure to meet you.

Norman : (Heh) Feeling's mutual.

Allison : Mhm!

(Scene cuts)

(Another door slam shuts, locked by Susie as she walks into the archives)

(Susie sits down at the center table)

(She had managed to get here without being seen by anyone.)

(Susie takes a deep breath.)

(Her eyes narrow down.)

Susie : (slowly) A way to fix this.

...

(She chuckles the same chuckle from ch3)

(She clicks on a tape.)

"They told me I was perfect for the role. Absolutely perfect. Now Joey's going around saying things behind closed doors.

I can always tell. Now he wants to meet again tomorrow, says he has an "opportunity" for me. I'll hear him out. But if that smooth talker thinks he can double cross an angel and get away with it, well, oh he's got another thing coming.

....

Alice, ooh she doesn't like liars."

(She stops the tape)

(An exhale)

(Susie looks down at her hands. In her hand held a small notebook.

Henry's sketchbook with all the rights claiming that Joey isn't the original creator. She flips through it, showing Henry's handwriting and sketches, including og bendy.)

Susie : ...

For someone who talks so highly of himself you're certainly not one to keep your secrets well.

...

The press would love a glimpse of this.

If you dare, Joey.

If you dare...

(Another small, pitying snort)

(Susie quietly slips the sketchbook away.)

Susie : Though..

I do admit, quite makes me wish I could've met him personally.

...

Sounds like a friendly fellow..

(She leaves the log there, and takes another entrance.)

(A muffled voice : Miss Campbell!! Susie!!)

(The locked door shakes)

(And knocks)

(Susie flinches. She quickly makes her mad dash out of the archives, gathering her things.)

(An unlocking sound)

(Wally walks in hastily)

Wally : (calling) Miss Campbell!!

(Doesn't see anyone)

(Wally seems very concerned)

(He carefully checks the halls slowly)

(He eyes a certain shelf)

(The book shelf has an empty slot)

(Wally walks over, seemingly trying to find something)

(He slides the books and files around, shuffling it, his face increasingly turns to panic.)

Wally : W-Wait- Where did it- !?

(Panicked noises)

(Realizing)

Oh.. no.

(He notices a tape recorder in the desk)

(He rushes over to find no tape inside, only the player)

(Wally begins to pace around the room, trying to find the missing sketchbook)

(He begins to worry)

Wally : Oh, Miss Campbell.. please don't tell me it was you..

(Increasing doubt)

(Scene cuts)

(Susie is standing in a hallway alone, one hand holds the tape, another gripping the sketchbook.)

(Tears begin to roll down her cheeks. She was angry, hella mad, kinda angry with herself that she's about to do this, she obviously doesn't plan on actually doing the sketchbook stunt, it was mostly a hostage thing. But, well, quote on quote Joey she's gonna do what she has to do.)

(Ink :

That doesn't belong to you, Alice...)

(Scene fades)

(It briefly shows Wally in a state of panic as he runs down a hall.)

(Scene : Joey's office)

(Note : Susie has her purse with her)

(Shot : focuses on the door's floor threshold. Front facing feet for Susie.)

(The door slowly creaks open)

Joey : Oh, hello Susie!

Susie : (flinches) Hello.

Joey : Have a seat.

Susie : ....

Joey : Listen, Susie-

Susie : I'm listening.

(A brief pause)

I'd like to very much hear why-

Joey : (interrupting) -Save the complaints for after the offer, Susie. We have time.

Susie : ...

Right, I'm sorry.

Joey : Don't worry about it.

(Joey pulls a recorder near)

(Susie eyes)

Joey : Oh- (chuckle) this is just for- proof.

Susie : Okay.

Joey : Thank you.

(He clicks the tape to run)

(A breath)

"I know how much this part means to ya, Susie. Alice means a lot to me too. Gosh, all of my characters do! In fact, I'll let you in on a little secret. I too really believe my characters are more than just drawings. They're alive. They're part of us. And I want people to know them as well as I do. I want people to be able to shake their hand, spend an afternoon with 'em. Love them. Susie, I'll be straight with you. I'm putting together a small project... a little ceremony if you will. If it works, a lot of dreams will come true. And I want you to be a part of it. ...I want you to bring Alice to life once again. What do ya say?"

(He clicks the tape stop)

(Susie is stunned for a few seconds. Joey just hit every single one of her main points like he can see through her clear as day.)

Joey : Do you need time to consider?

(Susie's hand immediately reaches out)

Susie : (a desperate ecstasy) Of course!

I- I- I'd be honored!

(Joey takes her hand back and shakes happily)

Joey : (glad) I'm delighted you understand my vision!

(Joey lets go of her hand, and begins to walks towards the door)

Joey : Come along, Susie. Let's bring Alice Angel to life.

(Before it cuts to Wally it shows Susie being fascinated)

(The sound echoes as it cuts to Wally telling Thomas something in the break room.

Thomas' face goes pale as he begins to piece everything together.

He gives Wally a quick pat and dashes out of the break room.)

(Wally eyes Thomas carefully. His hand holds Susie's other tape.)

The scene then rapidly cuts between the two parties.

(Ink message : What?

The font distorts)

(Then it cuts to Thomas)

Thomas (panting): Mister Drew-

(Sees scene, shuts the door quickly and loudly, while rushing to Susie (the size of an ink fetus))

Thomas: What. DID YOU DO TO HER!? (Fury, shock)

Joey: I- It's-

Thomas (grits his teeth, he snatches the picture of Alice (the same one he gave Susie earlier) out of Joey's hands and rushes to the ink machine. Susie thrashes in his arms)

Thomas: It's okay. It'll be fine-

I'm- I'm so sorry.

He throws both Susie and the Alice Angel image into the machine input.

Thomas backs away and turns around to look at Joey, who just stood there with a blank expression.

Joey: Quick thinking!

(He realizes something. He stands up in a straightened posture.)

So.

You do know how it works.

(Doesn't care) Thomas:- Mister Drew.. no, JOEY! WHAT!?

Joey: (shocked at the sudden voice raise) PLEASE CALM DOWN!!

Thomas: After THAT?! I'm sorry but I'm quitting!!
Joey: (silence)-

Thomas: (realizes what he just said) I-

Joey: Tom. (Thomas flinches)

(TW:GASLIGHT ALERT🚨)

You know this is your machine, right?

The reason Susie even became like that is because of your contraption.

Thomas: You. WERE THE ONE-

Joey: I'd asked for something that'll create perfect living characters, and that's what I'd promised Susie.

I'd barely lied. It's your faulty machine that did it.

Thomas: No, I- (serious, he knows Joey is gaslighting him)

Joey : In fact, it seems like you've indeed figured out a way to create.. cartoon characters, I take it?

Why not just tell me earlier so this mess wouldn't have happened!?

Thomas : Are you INSANE-

(Suddenly, something seemed to affect him

He stops mid-sentence and begins to back away, sensing something in himself.)

Joey: So? What'll it be? Continue fixing this thing until it becomes perfect? Or leave and who knows what it'll become.

Besides, you've seem to already made some progress, so I doubt it'll take long for you to wrap your head around this thing.

(Thomas grasps his chest, then lets go)

Thomas: (through gritted teeth) F-FINE!!

Joey: Very well.

Thomas : But only. If you. Don't. Try anything else.

Joey : No promises, Tom.

Thomas : You said I had one month.

Joey : And you found a solution, didn't you?

Thomas : (panicked sputter) I- It was a wild guess.

Joey : Then I'm certain I hired the right person.

(A thump)

(The two turns around to see an Alice figure slumped on the pentagram in front of the machine)

(She looks up. Half her face is disfigured.)

Thomas : ...

(Brain processing)

Susie..?

Joey : .....

(Thomas cautiously approaches)

Thomas : Susie, are you-

(Alice looks up. She seems to be in fear and enraged at the same time.)

Alice : (screaming) GET AWAY FROM ME!!

Thomas : Su- Susie it's okay, I can- help-

Alice : (freaking out) SHUT UP!!! WHAT DID YOU DO TO ME!?!

Joey : (realizing) You're Alice!! (Astonished)

(Alice stops. She looks down at herself.)

Alice : I- I'm Alice..

Joey : But.. still not.. (unsure expression)

What should I say..

"Beautiful"

(Alice touches her face)

Alice : I..

(Her pov. She seems to be able to see out of only one eye.)

(Her other eye rolls to the floor.)

(Alice freezes)

Alice : ...

(Thomas is unsure of what to do.)

(Suddenly, Alice bolts for the exit door.)

Joey : HOLD ON!!

(The two grabs Alice, and starts to push her back.)

Alice : Let me go!!!

(A calmer voice)

Please..!

(Thomas is contemplating)

(Joey is panicking and also angry)

(Thomas eyes Joey)

(Joey nods towards the chasm beneath the ink machine)

Thomas : Are you INSANE!?

Joey : Who knows what she'll do if we- (grunt) LET HER RUN FREE!?

Alice : (wail, desperation) I just want to see them again!! Please!!

Joey : (realizing) Don't. Trust. Her.

(Low voice) If she gets out it's over for us. For the machine, for the studio!

(Thomas's expression morphs into a confused, contemplating worry)

(He suddenly whips his grip, grabbing Susie by her arms)

(Alice pants, her good eye crying ink.)

Alice : Please.

Please..

Thomas..

It doesn't have to be like this.

(Thomas pants. He's unsure of what to do. At all.

The chasm is just behind.)

(The shot pans to Joey for a moment. He's waiting with bated breath to see what Thomas'll do)

Thomas : ..I'm-

I'm sorry.

Alice.

(He lets go and Alice plunges into the chasm.)

(Her scream echoes back.)

(Thomas freezes. His hand is still in the same place.

He looks up at the machine. It seems to be the same.)

Joey : (panting)

.. ..

Good choice.

Thomas : (heavy) Shut up.

Joey : Tom-

Thomas : SHUT THE HELL UP!!!

Joey : ...

..

I'll pay you extra this month.

(Thomas flinches and seethes)

Joey leaves the room.

As soon as Joey was surely out, Thomas immediately grabs an axe to destroy the machine.

He suddenly freezes, the machine gripping him in a hypnotism.

He places the axe away, slowly reaching for a lever.

Thomas: M-Maybe it is my masterpiece to work with..

Maybe-

(Grunts) Oh god, Thomas..

I-

I just...

Need to..

(Scene cuts to black)

"FIX IT"

(The other eye sinks into the ink)

(Cuts)

(Sammy's office)

(Sammy is using a candle to work.)

(Knocking)

Sammy : (bluntly) Who is it?

Allison : Hey, uh-

Mister Drew's here. He wants to see you.

Sammy : ....

Tell him not now.

Allison : O-Okay then.

(Muffled noises)

Wait- Mister Drew, Sammy-!

(The door creak open)

Sammy : Not now, Joey.

Joey : Please, Sammy, you can't just send me away twice already.

Sammy : Maybe if you had just left my department to my management I wouldn't have to send you off.

Joey : Sammy, if I'd recalled correctly it was your decision.

Sammy : ....

Joey : (cont'd) I didn't say it was a bad choice.

Allison : (interrupting) Excuse me, but-

Joey : It's nothing, Allison.

Excuse us a moment.

(He shuts the door.)

(Allison remains still in front of there for a few moments. Yeah, something doesn't sit right.)

(She decides to excuse them anyways, for manners)

(The scene cuts to inside of Sammy's office.)

(Sammy turns around and glares at Joey)

(Joey sighs at Sammy.)

Joey : Sammy, hear me out.

Sammy : (a chuckle that lasts a few seconds)

Tell me, Joey, is Bendy back in the spotlight yet? Are you satisfied?

Joey : (swiftly) Yes, and thank you.

Sammy : (mocking satisfaction) Well then!

Then please, do tell, why you decided to NOT provide Susie with the memo???

Joey : (outright lies) It would be rude to bluntly send her a message like that, I simply wanted to break it to her in person.

Really, I was trying to find her, but she was ..fast.

Sammy : (unconvinced) Mhm. Sure.

And now, she decided to fully resign, is what I reckon you're here to tell me.

Joey : How did you-

Sammy : .... (I'm the head of the music department, don't you dare come telling me bullcrap)

Joey : (sighs) Right.

(Sammy doesn't reply)

Sammy : ...

(A few moments of silence)

If that's all you have to say, I suggest you leave now.

Joey : No, of course not.

Sammy : (strained) Then what else could you possibly need!?

Joey : ...

Oh, yes.

I'd like to discuss an opportunity with you!

(Sammy stands up, arms crossed)

Sammy : ... Joey. (Warning tone)

Joey : (interrupting) I know, I know- an abrupt one, out of the blue! That's probably what you're thinking, but this.. this, I don't think I can find anyone else but you to do it, and it'll increasingly benefit our studio greatly, if it works.

(A pause)

What am I saying? With you, it'll definitely work!

Sammy : ...

(Sammy contemplates for a few moments. The last one was a disaster on his part, but what is this one, is what he wanted to know.)

(His face remains ever so suspicious of Joey)

(This scene prolongs)

... (ink voices)

Joey : ..You're considering, aren't you?

Do you need time?

Sammy : ...

..

(Low, cold) What is it..

Joey : (beaming) Now we're talking.

Sammy : .....

As long as-

Joey : (satisfactory) Oh, don't worry.

I think you'd rather like it.

(Scene cuts)

(The final scene is of Henry's sketchbook.

It lays on Thomas' worktable. The light flickers and dies as it all fades to black.)

[TO BE CONTINUED..]

Chapter Text

(Blurred static)
Joey : -It’d be an honor to have you voicing Alice.
(Joey watches as Allison takes a sip of water)
Allison : (she wipes her mouth as she thinks)
Pardon?
You.. already have a voice for Alice.
Joey : Oh, yes.
…
About that!
(Hesitates),
Allison, there’s something I’d like to share.
Allison : Yes?
Joey : You know Susie Campbell, right?
Allison : Of course.
As far as I can remember she has always had the talent.
Are you-
Joey : I’m not saying she’s not good enough. It’s just that having her voice Alice, will put Bendy out of business.
Allison : …I’m not sure I follow.
Joey : Her talent is too.. angelic, Allison.
Allison : I reckon you still know I’m here.
Joey : No, it doesn’t mean that you’re not good enough, on the contrary, you’re the perfect person that I envision to voice Alice.
To be Alice. To play her role, both cartoon, and real life.
Allison : .. (realizing)
That’s absolutely absurd.
Joey : Just, trust me, Allison.
Allison : (harshly) No.
Joey : Allison..
Allison : No.
(final decision) Thank you for the meal.
(Allison abruptly stands up)
Joey : ….
(Joey stands up as well)
Allison!
(Allison looks back)
Please, it’s not easy for me to say this.. but, I know you’re in a tough position right now. I just want to offer a hand as well.
Allison : (flinches)
(A pause. Thinks)
Excuse me, Mister Drew?
(Joey can tell he has her attention.)
(He pulls out his business card.)
Joey : I’ll leave you with it.
Just ring me up if you ever need a gig.
(Allison stares at the card Joey placed on the table.)
(It flickers to her current self.)
(She’s standing in the recording booth)
(Nothing feels right.
But it isn’t.. wrong, either.)

(Allison sighs, and walks out of the recording booth)
(Jack looks at her)
(Allison notices, and approaches)
Allison : Jack Fain, right?
Jack : (stares deadpan for a few seconds)
Allison : I- I’m sorry-
Jack : No, no- uh- not what I meant.
(Slurred vowels) It- isn’t your fault, anyways.
Allison : ..
Yeah, I might have to start getting used to that.
Jack : The… excess attention..
Allison : Suppose so.
Jack : ..
(Sighs)
Sammy’s… at a meeting. Again.
Allison : Oh, I see.
Jack : You’ll get used to it, he’s popping in and out 24/7.
Allison : (chuckle)
(Jack stares at her then. A stare that’s.. not right. Like scrutinizing her down to her mind.)
(“She’s.. not like her..”)
Allison : Excuse me..
Jack : Ah!
Uh, sorry, just.. thinking.
Allison : I’m sorry about Susie..
Jack : No-
Listen, just- might be a while. It’ll wear off soon.
Allison : It’s fine.
Almost fourteen years here I’m not surprised she made her mark.
Jack : Yeah..
(Allison takes a breath. Yep. Ok. This studio is straight up weird.)
(Allison notices Thomas with a toolbox, looking inside)
Allison : Who’s that?
Jack : Hm? Oh.
That’s Thomas Connor, met him?
Allison : No, not yet.
Jack : (sighs) He’s the.. technician. Takes care of all the technical stuff.
Oh, speaking of which, our department is slightly prone to ink flooding.
I guess that’s what he’s here for today.
Allison : (sputtering) I- I’m sorry, a what now?
Jack : Ink flooding.
Did.. Mister Drew not-?
Allison : No.
Jack : (sighs harder)
(Calling) THOMAS!!
(Thomas walks over)
Thomas : What.
Jack : Allison. New gal.
Thomas : Oh.
(He stares at her)
Hello. (Strained)
Jack : Thought Mister Drew had already given her a brief on the.. technical difficulties.
I guess not.
Can you-?
Thomas : (holy shit does Mister Drew not care about workplace safety) You have the employee handbook?
Allison : No, I think they ran out of copies.
Thomas : (sighs) I’ll.. give you a rundown.
Just wait for me outside the-
(A pause)
..
(Sighs) Ask Wally. He’ll know where to find me.
Allison : Okay.
Thomas : Okay.
(A breath)
Alright then.
Jack : Thanks.
..
(Jack looks at Allison)
You know who’s Wally, right?
Allison : Yes, I’ve seen him.
Jack : Swell.
..Fancy seeing you around, Allison.
Welcome to the music department.
(Allison nods, she walks away)

(The shot follows and pans black blur to Sammy in Joey’s office)

(Sammy takes a generous swig of coffee)
(.. spiked with just a little bit more ink)
Joey : Take it slow.
Sammy : …
Joey : (exasperated sigh)
Sammy, you can’t stay upset at me forever.
Sammy : (….)
(Sighs)
Make it quick then.
What is it.
Joey : That’s what I’m talking about.
(Joey pulls out the ink machine blueprint)
Sammy : What.
Joey : You remember this, right?
Sammy : Of course.
Joey : Swell.
Well, recently, I’ve made a.. discovery.
This machine that Tom made, well, there was a certain flaw to it. It can’t churn the characters out perfectly.
And these characters.. you know and love. They’re not right. They’re supposed to be full of life, bringing joy, they’re supposed to be perfect. But they’re not.
They’re lacking a certain something.

…
Do you see where I’m getting at, Sammy?
Sammy : I’m following.
Joey : Good.
So this machine, all it has created so far are failures. None of them can be called a true, living, breathing creature.
Something is missing.
Something that’s within all of us.
Sammy : ….
Joey : You know what it is.
Sammy : .. A soul.
Joey : Yes! Indeed!
Sammy : What does that mean?
Joey : It means that I need souls, Sammy. To create these characters, they need a soul. And ink-
Well, even with my special ink, it can’t seem to truly give life to these.. characters.
We need someone real, someone true.
And if you’re willing,
Help me find them.
Sammy : …
So I take it that you want me.
To find people.
And take their soul out.
…

This sounds ridiculous.
Joey : Sammy, it’s going to work. With your help, this project will be a success!
Sammy : And how precisely do you plan on doing exactly that?
Something humanity has never achieved before.
Joey : Sammy.
We’ve created so many innovations the world has never seen before already. Just a pencil and a dream, and it can create anything, Sammy!
Sammy : What is taking the soul out, even.
Joey : We’re not taking the soul out, technically not. We’re simply reanimating them into- well-
Sammy : …..
Joey : …
Sammy : …
These.. living cartoons you’re talking of, what are they for?
Joey : For the park, Sammy.
Sammy : That BendyLand park?
Joey : Indeed. Even better, when this works, the audience would be astonished, captivated! Amazing what imagination can do, isn’t it?
Sammy : …
..
Joey : ….
…
(A long pause. Sammy’s expression barely to never shifts, but suddenly, one of his eye twitches.)
(Time to pull his trump card)
(The atmosphere of the room rapidly shifts in this monologue)
Sammy, can’t you see? You work so hard, full of determination.. and rarely complain, even after I had requested for a little change in management you still knew what had to be done for our company. Those.. sheep, they always complain, muttering, they don’t understand the vision. They don’t have it.
Unlike you.
None of them are as skillful as you.

(The camera pans to Sammy)

Even with an entire department by your side, such a man like you can do the job better. Don’t you think they’d be better off as.. creations that’ll benefit all of us greatly? So many dreams would come true.

(Mimicry of Sammy’s behavior : I know my talent and I’m not afraid to stand up for it)

Sammy : ……..
…
Joey : And a bunch of a little extra privileges would be in the mix, but I’m certain it won’t be much of a …convincing tool to you!
(Sammy is still contemplating. A decision he’d never make before. A tough choice.)
Joey : ..
….
You know you’re quite the talent.
That’s why I trust you with this.
Tom.. well, Tom.. only takes this at face value.
You know what I mean.
He’s not fit to lead.
After all, ..what? Your department.. they respect you, don’t they? They really do. Wouldn’t mind following their leader.
The shepherd.
..
Even Jack wouldn’t-
(Immediately) Sammy : (stands up, slamming table) …
(SFX)
(He doesn’t meet Joey’s eyes, the camera shows his face, staring down at the wooden grained table, panting, eyes widening)
(The same ink noises rises again rapidly)

Joey : (curtly) Need time?
Sammy : ….
(He looks away.)
..
Show me.
Joey : Hmm?
Sammy : (heavily) Show me, Joey.
Joey : (realizing) Oh! I see!
Sammy : …
(His expression is unreadable, once again)
(But Joey seems to have.. caught on a little)
Joey : (smiling) Let’s go then!

———-

(Scene : Allison is in front of the ink machine’s room entrance)
(Allison knocks for a moment, then no one answers)
Allison (simultaneously) : knock knock~
(A dead silence)
Allison : …
Thomas..?
..
(She sighs, then mutters an apology as she slowly opens the door)
(Continued silence)
(Darkness)
(Allison leaves the door open, but walks inside)
(Suddenly, the lights flood on from somewhere)
(The ink machine in all its glory is in Allison’s eyes)
(The machine reveal music)
Allison : Woah..
(Allison remains stunned for a few seconds, then composes herself)
(She looks around the room, pretty sure she just came to the wrong place)
(Allison quickly makes her way towards the exit)
Thomas : ALLISON!?
Allison : Oh, Thomas!
Thomas : Christ-
Wally told you to come here!?
Allison : Yeah!
Thomas : …
(His face lowers as he tries to think of what to do. He breathes in and out rapidly.)
Wait outside. Shut the door.
Allison : Okay.
Thomas : (he takes a deep breath)
(Thomas walks back into the hidden room. He looks at Susie’s purse.)
(Allison didn’t leave when he went into the secret room)
(He takes a sharp inhale, then quickly throws all of it into a cupboard, shutting it promptly)
(He takes a step back, rapidly breathes)
(The scene cuts to Allison waiting outside)
(She looks at the clock, unsure if she should just ditch this)
(A series of footsteps echoing down the hallway : sfx)
(Sammy is behind Joey)
Allison : Oh! Hello there.
(Joey stops in his tracks)
(He looks at her, wondering how the heck she got here)
Joey : Hi Allison! How are you liking it so far?
Allison : It’s.. quite nice, I suppose.
Joey : Alright!
(Beams)
What brings you here?
(Allison could tell Joey’s not gonna like her answer.)
Allison : Oh, just passing by.
How about you?
Joey : Ah, same!
(The door suddenly opens. Thomas is weirded out to find all three of them in the same spot.)
Thomas : Allison-
Joey : Met her?
Thomas : (tight-lipped)
Yeah.
Joey : …
Good!
Thomas : …
Allison, let’s go.
Allison : …
Sammy, do you ne-
Sammy : (bluntly) No.
Allison : Alright.
Joey : …
Very well.
(The three freezes in the same spot for a second. Thomas then quickly gets out of there, walking down the hall, Allison quickly following behind)

(Explanation for the blunt exchange)
(Joey can’t move because they’re supposed to enter the room. Can’t ask what Thomas is about to do because Thomas will ask back and no amount of lying is going to ease Thomas. Sammy won’t say anything. Allison knows enough that being shooed out of a room is enough to prove she ain’t talking about what’s behind that door. If Thomas tells Joey he’s taking Allison on a rundown on technical difficulties the recent incident may repeat.)

(The camera follows Thomas)
(Thomas is walking. He doesn’t meet Allison’s eyes.
Abruptly stops at a pipe)
Thomas : We’ve got this thing. A machine.
(He looks at the pipe)
Pumps ink throughout the studio, for conveniences.
(Pause)
Minor setbacks such as the music department’s ink flooding are.. a little common.
Allison : Alright.
Thomas : And.. um. These things.
(Pans to the ink maker)
Throw some little blob of ink in, and out comes whatever you want.
Allison : Oh?
That’s.. quite neat.
(Awkward snort) I’ll have to give that a try!
Thomas : Yeah.
Just. Be careful.
Accidents are..
Allison : ….
Thomas : .. You know what I mean.
Allison : .. I guess so.
Thomas : ..
Wally can usually handle the.. smaller problems, so go to him if you.. find something.
Allison : Mhm. Noted.
Thomas : …
(Contemplating if he should tell her about anything else)
(Sighs)
Pretty much there is to know.
..
Allison : Okay.
Well, thanks.
Thomas, right?
Thomas : Yup.
Allison : …
(Heh) Nice to meet you, Thomas.
Thomas : ….
(Unsure)
Yeah.
You too.
(Allison takes a few steps back.)
(Then stops)
Allison : Hey, um.
If you want to- I was just going to head over to the lounge. Wanna come with?
Thomas : !!
…
(Still remembers Susie)
No, I think I’ll.. pass. For now.
Allison : …
Okay.
See you around then.
Thomas : …
Mhm.
See you.

(Screen fades to black)

(Late night. Norman is in the music department alone.)
(He’s fixing up a projector on the slightly elevated projection booth, when a screw falls loose from it, and disappears into a crack in the elevated floor. It makes an echoey sound, implying the area beneath is much larger than expected.)
(Curious, Norman pries open a loose plank, peering beneath the floor.)
(He removes some more planks, before deciding to lower himself into it)
(There is a passage beneath the elevated floor)
(After some exploring, he finds that most of the hollow walls in the studios are connected, and he could traverse and eavesdrop through them easily.)

INK : Took them long enough…

(Scene cuts)
(Scene : Jack and Sammy in the music dept. Jack’s coming up the stairs, notices Sammy in the corridor)

Jack : Going somewhere?
Sammy : Yeah.
Jack : .. Okay then.
…
You- (about to talk about Susie)
(Thinks)
Y’know what, nevermind.
Sammy : …
The lyrics-
Jack : Oh-
I’ll just.. leave them in your office.
Sammy : Good.
(Jack smirks wearily, then starts walking towards Sammy’s office)
(Then stops)
Jack : (looks back) Where you goin’?
Sammy : Meeting.
Jack : (weary) Oh.
Okay.
Sammy : . . .
(Sammy walks out the exit)
Jack : . . .
(Sighs)
(His face distorts a bit)
Grace : Jack?
Jack : Oh! (Slightly less jumpy)
Oh- uh- what’s up?
Grace : Have you seen Norman?
Jack : … (recalling)
No, not yet.
Grace : Oh. Well, alright then.
Jack : You need me to pass on a message?
Grace : No.. (No in a dragged sort of nnoooooo…)
You probably can’t find him when he doesn’t want to be found.
Jack : (thinks) Yeah. Probably!
Grace : Ah, well.
(Grace walks away)
(Jack stares after her. Then he looks at his lyrics.)
(He quietly pulls out his pencil from his ear and starts writing down what Grace just said because it prolly makes for a good lyric)

(Door slams shut : SFX)
(Sammy stops in his tracks in front of the door)
Sammy : (sharp inhale)
So?
Joey : (blunt) Didn’t work.
(Sammy sighs heavily)
Joey : Hey, don’t worry too much.
We still have a lot to try.
(Sammy’s eyes narrow down. The ink noises start rising again, louder and louder.)
(He takes a breath, then finally takes a step towards the ink machine)
Joey : Still. It was almost.
Sammy : Swell.
Joey : You wanna try holding the ink?
We’re gonna be using them a lot.
(Joey hands Sammy a large blob of ink)
(Sammy backs)
Sammy : No.
I’ll pass.
Joey : Suit yourself!
(Joey lets it slump to the ground.)
(Sammy stares after it)
Sammy : Where did he go?
Joey : Who?
Sammy : . . . (Experiment subject- Sammy is still weirded out) (Johnny)
Joey : Oh, him!
He’ll be fine.
You know, no need to be so coy! Just say his name.
Not like he’ll come biting your head off.
Sammy : (grits his teeth)
Joey : …

Oh well, what works.
(Ink noises rises again- whispers from batim death screen)
Sammy : (inhales and exhales)
So what now.
Joey : I’ll sort the rest out. Every failure’s a stepping stone to success.
Sammy : You’re gonna get me a new musician?
Joey : Oh, I reckon you’d know who you should hire.
Sammy : …
Joey : (smiles)
That’s all for today, Sammy. Thank you!
(Sammy stares at Joey. The room falls eerily silent.)
(Sammy keeps looking suspicious. Like he knows something’s.. someone’s watching.)
Sammy : Mhm.
(The camera zooms out, shows the hollow passages)
(Norman’s ear is directly on the wall)
(Norman slowly backs away. He wasn’t sure what he just heard.)
(Sammy starts shifting towards the same wall.)
(Norman freezes up. The hell is Sammy and Joey doing and why are they talking cryptically.)
(Sammy stops in his tracks.)
Sammy : …
I need a break.
Joey : Of course!
(Sammy quickly makes his way out of the room.)
(Joey turns off the lights, then leaves.)
(Scene cuts to Norman. It’s all dark.)
(Norman takes a deep breath. He fumbles with something for a moment, then a light cuts through the darkness. He makes sure to not aim it at the walls.)
(Norman rapidly inhales and exhales, then draws a long breath, then his breathing returns to a normal pace.)
(A loud groaning sound)
(Norman freezes in fear. He swings his light as carefully as possible.)
(An ink splatter sound.)
(Norman bites his lip. He remembers the groaning sound. It was almost the same as the one he had heard at night once.)
(His teeth clatters slightly)
Norman : Hey, hey- it’s just- maybe- maybe I’m hearing things.
(More rapid breathing)
Keep talking, just- keep calm-!
Heh- maybe- maybe someone brought a weird pet-? (More nervous snorting) I-
(Another groan, even louder)
Norman : (spitting) DAMNIT!!
(He covers his mouth instinctively, then quickly makes a mad dash down the corridor, the light flickering as he goes.)
(The scene cuts to black)
(A small, wiggling searcher is crying in the dark. Loud wail echoes.)
(A series of footsteps : sfx)
(Alice carefully scoops it up)
(A sigh)
(SCENE CUTS)
(Scene : projection booth stairs)
(Allison treks down the hall)
Allison : (notices Norman panting) Norman?
Norman : Hm? Oh, hey there.
Allison : You look awfully tired…?
Norman : (chuckles wearily) Stairs, am I right?
Allison : (nervous chuckle) Yes, I suppose.
(A door creaks)
(Sammy enters)
(Norman and Sammy meets eyes)
Sammy : (sighs)
Everyone, get to setting up.
Allison : Okay.
Norman : …
Sammy : Norman.
Norman : Yeah. Give me a moment.
(Sammy watches as Norman disappears behind his booth’s door)
(He stands there for a moment, then walks away.)

(Scene cuts)

(A corridor is unlit. A shadow suddenly runs past.)
(The shot now shows pov from inside a closet, a few blurred bacon soup cans block out the sight
The door opens, and a frantic Alice starts grabbing a few cans. A few drops to the floor.)
(Shot : it now shows the corridor and Alice standing in it. Her arms hold a generous amount of bacon soup cans.)
Alice : (heavy sigh)
(She shuts the door gently)
Wally : OI!!
(Grabs Alice, broom in one hand)
Alice : AAH!!
Wally : (harshly) Who are you, comin’ around here stealing??
(Alice takes a breath)
(She builds the small courage to turn to look at Wally)
Alice : I-
(Wally looks at Alice holding the cans)
Wally : …
You needed food?
(Loosen grip)
(Alice nods quickly)
Wally : …
(A breath)
Alright.
(Lets go)
Alice : .. Thank you.
Wally : It’s fine.
…
You look..
Alice : No!!
Wally : (surprised) Okay.
I just.
Don’t recognize you.
Alice : I-
I’m new.
Wally : What’s your name?
Alice : …
..
Call me Milla.
Wally : Alright, Milla.
How long have you been working here?
Alice : …
Long enough
Wally : (sighs) Milla, listen.
I’m gunna have to take you to Mister Drew if you don’t cooperate.
Alice : NO!
Wally : (flatly) Answer then.
Alice : …
Few.. weeks.
Wally : …
Few weeks, alright.
Alice : Please, Wally-
Wally : (surprised) You know my name.
Alice : I’ve heard.
Wally : Oh, gee. Um.
Alice : It’s- uh.
I- I just need.. food.
Wally : Okay..
Uh- how much do you need?
(Starts finding his pocket)
Alice : (quickly) I need the bacon soup!
Wally : …
Just.. bacon soup, specifically?
It’s some sort of- specified diet ?
Alice : Yes.
Wally : Alright then. How many cans?
Alice : I… er..
Wally : ….
(Sighs) It’s fine, Milla, just drop by here whenever you need a can or two.
Alice : Oh, thank you!
That’s.. very kind of you. (Susie’s voice)
(Wally freezes for a moment, stunned by what he just heard.)
Alice : Is everything alright, Wally?
Wally : Yes, well, you just- reminded me of someone.
Someone really nice, in fact.
Alice : Oh- I..
(More awkward silence.)
Wally : (snicker) Well, best if we both get back to our jobs.
Alice : Okay.
Wally : …
An odd meeting! But, well, nice meeting you, Milla.
Alice : ..
You too, Wally.
Wally : Just don’t go stealing again.
Alice : Okay.
Wally : Mhm, well, I’m outta here then.
(Wally leaves quickly)
(Alice remains there for a moment.)
(Ink noises rises suddenly, the background darkens a bit more for a moment, Alice’s eye widen and she grabs her head)
(She takes a few deep breaths, then walks away into the darkness.)

[END SCENE 10]

Chapter Text

(The music dept is wrapping up after the last recording session)
(Norman watches Sammy as he strums a few notes on his banjo)
(Sammy feels Norman is watching. He glares up quietly.)
(After a few more notes, Sammy drops his banjo and walks away)
(Norman blinks, wondering where he’s going)
(The projection booth door bursts open then, Sammy standing there.)
Sammy : (somewhat demanding) I need to use the projector.
Norman : … You know how it works?
Sammy : The basics.
Norman : ..
Alright.
Don’t be too hard on her (the projector)
Sammy : Mhm.
(Norman leaves and shuts the door behind him. Sammy doesn’t seem to know Norman just saw him with Joey.)
(Norman stares back at the door, wondering. He wanted so badly to open the door again, to know what Sammy’s up to.)
(Subtle ink noises)

Norman : …
(He notices a lot of people gathered outside.)
Jack : Oh hey! There you are.
Norman : What’s going on?
Jack : Sammy told us to wait in the hall.
Norman : Mhm.
Jack : ..Dunno what’s up either.
Norman : (sighs) He wants to use the projector for sumthin’
Jack : Oh.
Mm, that’s.. weird.
Norman : (snicker) Well, weirdness is kinda what we do.
Jack : (humorless chuckle) Guess so.
Norman : …
Jack : ..
(Both recall their memories)
Jack : He can’t possibly stay in there forever.
Norman : No.. (dragging)
(Suddenly, Sammy exits the projection booth)
(He walks back into the recording studio)
(Jack goes to check)
Jack : (sigh) Locked.
(Turns to look at the other musicians)
Hey, let’s get started with other stuff while Sammy finishes up his business inside!
(A few murmurs, a few mutters, but eventually disperses)
(Jack smiles to himself)
(Norman stands there for a moment)
(Wally enters again, then briskly walks over to Norman.)
Wally : Hey Norman!
Norman : Yeah?
Wally : You know this new kid? Milla?
Norman : …(recalling)
No, never seen her.
Wally : Oh, alright then.
Norman : Why?
Wally : Just met her today. Thought you might’ve seen her around.
Guess not.
Norman : …
(Heh) Ah, well.
New hires.
I’ll have to drop by and say hi one of these days.
Wally : (Weary chuckle)
(Wally drops his mop to the floor, and drags away)
(Norman wonders if the groaning from earlier is connected)
(The scene fades)

(Scene : infirmary)
(The ink demon is chained up. He sobs and wails as the chain clinks together : SFX)
(The ink inside the room seeps and bubbles even further, the room being tainted with ink.)
(The ink noises start to rise, then it reaches its max, then it quickly zooms on Ink Demon, as it shrieks in panic and slumps to the floor.)
(The ink demon pants for a moment)
(The ink starts to form into words on the wall)

(Ink : I’m sorry. It gets loud.)
(Ink demon shifts towards the wall slowly)
(Ink : Don’t be afraid.
My child.)
(Ink demon places a hand on the wall.)
(Ink : You won’t be alone.)
(Ink demon nervously places another hand on the wall.)
(Ink : I’ll be back.)

(The ink fades, leaving the ink demon alone again.)
(He slides back a bit, making himself a bit more comfortable.)
(A quiet sigh)

(Scene cuts)

(Thomas is in the secret room)
(The light flickers ominously)
(His hand holds a small pile of papers)
(He seems to be frantic, looking back and forth.)
Thomas : (whispering) What the hell…?
(He grits his teeth, slamming the papers onto the wooden table.)
(One says Susie, other says Johnny)
(Thomas shifts the lightbulb, and the light becomes stable again)
(The ink noises become slightly subtle)
(Thomas looks away, noticing a Bendy cutout in the corner)
(It flashes into Ink Demon for a split second)
(Thomas flinches, he looks over on the desk, but it doesn’t help with distraction.)
(He decides to get out of the room. As he lays his hand on the knob, he eyes the cutout once again)
(The scene turns black)
(Then back on again, revealing the neatly piled debris of what was the cutout)

(Scene fades)

(Alice is inside the closet. A few cans of bacon soup is next to her. In her hand holds an opened can, the other holds a spoon)
(A sigh)
(The door creaks open)
Wally : Jeez, Milla! Hungry today?
Alice : (snorts) A little.
(Wally sits down next to her.)
(He picks up another can, popping it open)
Wally : Got a spare spoon?
Alice : No.
Wally : Ah well.
Bottoms up!
(A gurgle)
Alice : (slight giggle)
Wally : So, Milla, huh.
Alice : Yes.
Wally : Where do you work?
Alice : (quick fib) Intern for Story.
Wally : Mhm. Well, I don’t really drop by Story.
(A dollop of soup splats onto Wally’s shirt)
Wally : (a sigh, then a small chuckle)
(Alice smiles longingly)
Alice : (sighs) I’m sorry for stealing.
Wally : …
Alice : Are you-
Wally : Can’t really say much about that. You were hungry.
Alice : ..
Do you actually trust me?
I mean.. I just.. showed up.
Wally : (thinks for a bit)
(Deadpan) Frankly, I don’t think I do.
(Wally’s POV : Alice is staring at him, like deep in thought)
Just have your food.
Alice : …
Thanks.
Wally : No problem!
(Alice takes another spoonful)
Alice : ..
You don’t think I look.. odd?
Wally : (mouthful of soup)
(Gulp)
No.
I mean.
We all have our scars.
(Shrugs) Who am I to judge?
Alice : (sighs)
I’m.. quite relieved to hear that.
Wally : (a small laugh)
Hey, it’s Joey Drew Studios. You know how it is.
Alice : …
(Nods softly)
(Wally tilts his can)
Wally : I’m out.
Alice : Care for another?
Wally : Nah, I’m good.
Alice : (soft, Susie-like voice) Okay then.
Wally : …
(Wally’s POV : Alice mixes her soup leisurely, it flashes to Susie for a second.)
(Wally shakes his head.)
Wally : It’s gonna turn cold if you keep playing with your food.
Alice : (Heh)
They’re always cold.
Wally : Fair, fair.
(Alice takes another spoonful)
Wally : ..
You mind if I get back to my job?
Alice : Not at all.
Wally : Alright then!
(Wally stands up)
Alice : Good luck!
Wally : …
(Stares at Alice one more time)
Thanks!
(The door to the cabinet shuts. Alice sits alone in the darkness.)
(A puddle of ink slowly grows from the floor.)
(A searcher pops out)
Alice : Johnny, I told you to stay hidden.
(Johnny says something)
Alice : ..
No.
(Johnny nods slowly)
Alice : ..
(A quiet sob)
No- who-?
(Johnny says something)
Alice : ..
(Alice sits there for a while, sliding over her can to Johnny)
(She sighs heavily)
(She slowly looks up. An air vent is directly in arm’s reach)
(Shot : The vent is in the center of the shot. Alice pries it open with brute force.)
(Johnny nods)
(Alice stands there for a moment, then climbs into the air vents.)

(Scene cuts)

(Scene : Heavenly Toys)

Angus : Heyya Mister Flynn!
Shawn : What’s up?
Angus : Mister Cohen wants to see you.
Shawn : Really?
Angus : Nope, a rogue toy that came to life wants to file a complaint.

Of course it’s Mister Cohen.
Shawn : Alright!
(Abruptly stands up from his station)
(About to walk out, then the sliding shelf suddenly slides, hitting Shawn right in the face)
Shawn : Ouch!
(Shot : Grant is trying out the switch for the toy shift)
Grant : Seriously, Shawn?
Shawn : What are you-
(He stumbles on a toy that fell off the shelf)
-doing!?
Grant : I should be asking that question.
Shawn : I’m doing my job, that’s what t’is.
Grant : Mister Connor has been filing complaints on this.. machine’s faultiness.
Shawn : He has, hasn’t he?
Grant : …
Shawn : So that’s what brings you here.
Grant : Yes.
(Angus awkwardly shuffles outside during this tensed conversation)
Shawn : Isn’t fixing stuff what he’s s’posed to do anyways?
Grant : He fixes what he created. You were the one insistent on building this.. toy machine yourself. If you can’t get it to work properly I highly advise you invest in a proper, pre-made machine instead of playing do-it-yourself. (Strained)
Shawn : (slight snort) It works, Cohen!
Grant : Please understand we can’t waste another penny on another useless repair.
Shawn : But you’re willing to spend it on that- machine that until this day hasn’t helped our company besides adding a few more freak accidents?
(Subtle ink noises)
(The noise cuts when Grant restrains himself)
Grant : (about to say something in the middle, then stops) Patience, Shawn. Be patient.
Shawn : Then have patience with me too! I know how to play with fire.
Grant : …
(Heavy sighs)
(Then a small, humorless snort)
(Shakes head)
Then you better start finding your own accountant soon, Shawn.
Shawn : (curt) Aight.
Grant : (sighs) Here’s the check for the last repair.
(Hands over a check)
(Shawn takes and looks at it)
Shawn : (slight chuckle) Time to pitch in, huh.
Grant : (blunt) Can’t cover every single expense.
Especially if they’re wasted.
(Grant walks away.)
(Shawn stares at the check)
(Ink drips from the ceiling and on to it)
Shawn : OI!!
(Looks up)
(The creak in the ceiling seems to be leaking ink)
(Shawn suddenly hears a low breath)
(Then it’s gone)
(He stares, unsure for a moment)
(He slowly backs away)

(Scene cuts)
(A slightly extended period of darkness)
(Scene fades back in again)

(Norman’s log)

(Scene : projection booth)
(Norman walks in, throwing his shoulder bag on to the floor)
(He takes a seat, stares down at Sammy)
(His hand holds a tape recorder)
(He clicks on the recorder)

“Every day the same strange thing happens, I'll be up here in my booth, the band will be swinging, and suddenly Sammy Lawrence just comes marching in and shuts the whole thing down. Tells us all to wait in the hall. Then I hears him. He starts up my projector, and he dashes from the projection booth and down to the recording studio like the little devil himself was chasing behind. Few seconds later, the projector turns off. But Sammy, oh no, he don't come out for a long time. This man is weird. Crazy weird. I got half a mind to talk to Mr. Drew about all this, I really do. But then again, I have to admit. Mr. Drew's got his own peculiarities."

(He clicks the tape off)
(A relished sigh)
(Knock knock on the door)
Norman : Come in.
Jack : Fancy a mug of coffee?
Norman : (thinks it’s a joke) What? Sammy’s not having his today?
Jack : (sigh) No.
Want this?
Norman : As long as it ain’t too sweet I’ll take it.
Jack : Great!
I’ll just leave this here. (Simultaneously places the mug on the ledge)
(Jack eyes the recorder in Norman’s hand)
….
Norman : Some old thing. (Throws it behind him dismissively)
Jack : ..Right.
(Sigh) Enjoy your coffee.
Norman : Yup.
..
….
(He reaches over to take a generous swig)
(His feet taps on the floor)
(A hollow, echoey tap sounds)
(Norman looks down)
(He stares for an extended period of time.)

(Scene fades)

(Alice is in the vents)
(A cough)
(Ink splats on the vent floor tile)
Alice : (sigh)
It’s.. just darkness..
Johnny?
(A wail somewhere)
Alice : ..
(POV : He can’t get in here, can he?)
(She presses on, still trying to make sense of all the nonsense of this air vent maze)
(A commotion)
(Alice peers out the grate)
Jack : Sorry ‘bout that, Thomas.
Thomas : (mutter) Mhm.
Sammy’s out again?
Jack : ..
He’s been- since-
Thomas : ..
Jack : You know.
Thomas : …(quiet) Yeah.
Jack : ..
Well, thanks again.
Thomas : (flatly) Anytime.
(Thomas leaves)

(Alice watches from the vents)
(The background turns black)
(Ink noises quickly rises)
“They miss you, they want you back as Alice.
You’re Alice Angel.”
(Alice grabs her head, small droplets of tears running down her face)
“You’re Alice Angel”
(A cry)
(The scene cuts)

(A tape clicks on)
(Scene fades on)
(Static vintage tape noises run during this entire scene)
(A splat on the wooden floor)
(A searcher propping up by their shoulders)
(Sammy backs off)
(Joey takes a step forward)
Joey : (sighs) Another one.
(Sammy freezes. In a slight trance. The ink noises become slightly subtle.)
(He looks down at his hands. Gloves covered in ink.)
Joey : I think I have an extra pair or two.
Sammy : (sarcastically) Thanks a lot.
(Joey stares at Sammy blankly. Sammy seems to be slightly in a bit of fear.)
Sammy : (breath) I presume that’s enough for the week.
Joey : Oh, yes. It’s definitely quite alright!
(A prolonged moment of eerie silence. Sammy takes a step closer to the searcher)
Sammy : …
(A breath)
What even is it?
Joey : Hm?
Sammy : The ink. How does it-
…
Work!?
Joey : …
(He doesn’t want to recall the past.)
A magician never reveals his secrets, hm?
Sammy : (doesn’t find it funny. His eyes keep fixated on Joey.)
Joey : (sighs)
Let’s try again next time.
(Sammy bites his lips, trying to contain his question)
Sammy : (blurt) What happens?
Joey : What?
Sammy : What happens to them?
Joey : ….
Do you want the answer?
Sammy : …
Joey : …
(Sammy composes his face into a calm one again)
Joey : I take that as a no.
(Sammy flinches)
Joey : Curious today, aren’t you?
(A small chuckle)
Save the questions for later, Sammy.
Sammy : …
(Sigh)

(Joey goes over to the nearest worktable)
(He gathers a few papers.)
Joey : You’re leaving?
Sammy : ..
Yeah.
..
Yeah I think I will.
(Sammy quickly walks out)
(Joey remains inside the room)
(He pulls a spare piece of paper from his notebook, squiggling something down)
(Note :
From : Joey Drew
To : All Employees

Please kindly pitch in and donate a single symbolic item of your choice from your work stations, and leave them at administration, regarding this message. A special little ceremony I’ve decided to set up, to appease the gods. Keep things going! Perhaps, think of it as a little ritual of luck. Bringing in all things well for our dreams!)

(He folds the note, then slips it into his pocket)

(He turns off the lights)
(But he doesn’t leave. Suddenly, the searcher groans loudly, hurling for him. He shuts the door in its face.)
(The moment Joey exits the tape static dulls down)
(Joey stares at the door)
(His hand is still on the knob)
(The door shakes)
(He takes a breath)
(He leaves)
(The scene pans through the wall, revealing a tape still running.)
(Norman’s hand reaches out to stop the tape)
(He quickly pulls the tape away)

(Scene cuts)

(Scene : music department)
(Sammy walks back in)
(Jack quickly makes a trip to him)
Jack : You’re out quite often these days.
Sammy : Yeah.
Jack : (blank stare)
Here’s what you asked for.
Sammy : Thanks.
Jack : (sigh)
(Then a small chuckle)
A new promotion, Sammy?
Sammy : (dismissive) You could call it that.
(Subtle ink noises)
Jack : (the small amused chuckle continues)
Why am I not surprised? (Exasperated)
Sammy : ….
..
You wouldn’t be.
Jack : (tight-lipped) I suppose not. Congratulations.
Sammy : …
(Heavy sigh)
(Weighted) Thanks.
(Sammy walks past Jack)
(The camera follows Sammy)
(He walks to his music sheet closet)
(CAM POV:Inside the cupboard
Light floods inside as the door opens)
(Sammy grabs a few sheets)
Norman : Hello, Sammy. (Pops up suddenly)
(Sammy flinches)
Sammy : Hello.
Norman : Jack told me about the promotion.
Sammy : …
Norman : How’s it?
Sammy : ..
(Slams closet shut)
Alright.
Norman : Alright.
Sammy : Just a bit more help to the studio. (Dragging)
Norman : …
Sammy : ..
Anything else?
Norman : No.
Sammy : ..
Well then.
(Sammy walks back into his office)
(Norman stares)
(Cuts to Sammy in his office)
(Sammy takes a seat again)
(He dumps the pile of papers on his desk)
(He picks one out, and starts writing another song)
(Ink noises subtle)
(Background darkens)
(Sammy POV : They won’t understand.
They simply won’t.
They-)
(He looks down on his paper)
(The notes make no sense)
(His fist shivers and sweats)
(He balls it into a crumble of paper, throwing it into the dustbin)
(He takes a breath)
(Continues writing)
(The ink noises bubbles again)

[Scene 11 : END]

Chapter Text

(A blur of noises cont’d from earlier)
Jack (half-asleep) : Mmrmph…..
(He slowly pushes himself up from his desk, standing up)
(His nose clip drops to his desk with a clunk)
(Jack chuckles, mockingly at himself)
(He looks at the time. It was well past midnight, and he knew the rest of the department had already gone home.)
(On his desk laid a finished lyric sheet)
(He picks up the disarrayed pen, dropping it into the inkwell)
(He slams himself on to his chair again)
(Jack looks at the alarm clock on his desk. It ticks ominously)
(He doesn’t think much as he starts to drift off in a train of thoughts.)
(Noise from somewhere )
Joey : Now you just listen here-
Thomas : I have gone over this a thousand times, no, I can’t fill the sewers.
Joey : Tommy, you know this area’s barely in use.
Thomas : (murmur) won’t be happy..
Joey : (sigh) There’s a thousand more places I could provide him with than this-
This.. place.
Thomas : (murmuring)
Joey : Tom, that’s not funny.
(Jack perks up)
(He remembers two years ago, when he also overheard Tom and Joey in the sewers.
[Jack Fain’s audio log on the Bendy channel]
(Jack slowly makes his way again)
(Surely enough that’s the same guys, same place)
(Jack scrunches his brows in suspicion)

(Scene cuts)

(Early morning of the next day)

(Scene : projection booth. Jack sits atop the metal trunk. The background is blurred out, Norman’s deep in thought, partially ignoring everything Jack is saying.

Jack : -you know something about this?
Norman : Huh?
Jack : Tom. And Joey.
Talking in the sewers.
Norman : (distracted) Hum, so that’s what you wanted to ask.
(Looks at Jack now) Why’d you think I’d know anything?
Jack : ….. (why would you ask such a stupid and obvious question)
Norman : (smirks, then snorts) *sighs*
No.
No, I don’t. (Not a lie, he doesn’t know anything about that)
Jack : Damnit.
(Sighs)
Norman : …
(Norman thinks back about Sammy and Joey. So things really are interesting now, aren't they?)
(Heh noise)
(Shot : Only Jack)
(A tape gets handed to him)
Norman : Record it then.
Jack : (confused) What?
Norman : Just start up the tape when they start talking, once they’re gone just turn it off.
Jack : (snorts) So, you want me to- what, eavesdrop?
Norman : (question) If you’re so curious.
Jack : ….
(Jack contemplates for a second)
(He takes the tape)
Jack : Why not?
(Norman looks at him with a small smirk)
(Jack still seems unsure, but takes the tape anyways)
(He stares down, then casually stuffs the tape into his hat)

(Scene cuts)

(Scene : secret room)

(Thomas is listening to murmurs outside. His entire body is pressed against the door, focusing on trying to distinguish the sounds. His eyes squints as he’s unable to tell. On the table laid a single piece of paper, vaguely Susie’s records

The ink noise starts rising

“He doesn’t know about this, does he?
…
..
.”

Thomas hears the exit door shut. The footsteps that remain in the room sounds more like Joey’s, and he reckons Sammy won’t be alone in this room.

He pushes the door open.
The shelf barricading it collapses with a thud.)

Joey : (slightly jumped) Tommy!!
Thomas : Who was that? (Dark, low)
Joey : Ah, just a helping hand.
Thomas : I told you to not interfere.
Joey : I thought you would like it.
We could always use some more help.
Thomas : ….
GENT can handle it, Joey.
Joey : Hey, I’m just handing you some free help.
Thomas : Then who is that free help.
Joey : ….
(Deciding)
Sammy Lawrence.
Thomas : (appalled) WHY!?
Joey : Because he knows how to do the job!
Thomas : (refute) You HIRED me to do the job.
Joey : And you’re stalling. (Harsh) Seriously, Tom, why!?
Thomas : (he balls his fists, and grits his teeth)
Joey : ….
If you can’t do what I hired you for, don’t complain when I try to find more help.
Thomas : ..
Does he kn-
(Stops)
…
(Joey looks at him with a somewhat perplexed expression, but remains silent)
Joey : (a heavy sigh)
(Joey makes his way out the room)
(Thomas is left alone in the room. He eyes the axe jammed in the floor once again.)
(He eyes a pentagram drawn on the floor with ink.)
(Picking up a piece of cloth, he throws it over the circle. He walks off screen, and the lights go out.)

(Scene fades)

(Jack is sitting on a chair in the recording booth. He seems to be scribbling something in his notebook, but his eyes squint at Sammy talking with some random musician. )

Music : (frantic) Apologies, Sammy.
Sammy : (heavy sigh) (strained tone) Do you think we can afford to waste any more time?
Music : No, no..
Sammy : (still harsh) This isn’t going to happen again.
Music : (quiet)
No..
No, it won’t.
Sammy : (grimace) It won’t.
Music : It really won’t, please.
Sammy : ..
Go to Mister Drew.
Music : Wh- Wha-?
Sammy : Go to Mister Drew.
Must I repeat myself? (Louder tone)
Music : Why?
Sammy : Go. To. Mister. Drew.
Music : I-
Sammy : NOW.
(The musician stares at Sammy for a moment, then scurries off.)
Sammy : (mumble) Useless sheeps.

(Jack stares at Sammy)
(Sammy notices)
Sammy : Is there something you need, Jack?
Jack : (blunt, strained) No.
Sammy : (noting) You’ve been out of the sewers a bit more often.
Jack : Just getting some fresh air.
Sammy : …
Swell then.
Jack : (weary laugh) A little less smelly on the nose, though.
Sammy : As long as you’re not lazing around, I’m fine.
Jack : (snorts) Me? Lazin’ around?
Sammy : You certainly don’t look like one to do so.
Jack : (slightly mockery) Glad I still have that impression.
Sammy : (condescending) And keep it up.
Jack : ….
I will.
Sammy : ..
Good.
Jack : So where did you send that kid?
Sammy : Did you not hear?
(Jack stands up, shutting his notebook. He laughs under his breath a bit.)
Jack : Aight. Yeah. I did hear.
Sammy : And?
Jack : To ‘Mister Drew’.
(Sammy remains deadpan)
(Jack knows somewhat what Sammy’d be thinking)
Sammy : (blunt) Yes.
Jack : Sending to Mister Drew? Why?
Sammy : None of your business.
Jack : Ooh. Okay. Grouch.
Sammy : … (doesn’t find it funny)
Jack : …
(Sammy shuffles out of the room without another word)
(Jack hat topples a bit. He quickly stuffs the loose tape recorder back inside.)

(Scene cut)

(Splashing sounds of a pair of leather shoes and work boots echo through the sewers.)
(It stops)
(A tape slides around the corner)
(Jack’s hand reaches out, unsure for a moment, then clicks the tape run.)
(Static ambience)
Thomas : The stench..
Joey : Bear with the stench a little bit.
Thomas : (grunt) A little worse than somedays.
Joey : (weary laugh) Come on, now.
Thomas : ..
Joey : So, finished that report?
(Thomas smoothens a paper and hands it over)
Joey : Thank you!
(Thomas watches as Joey reads the report)
Joey : Coherent enough, alright.
Thomas : Mhm.
Joey : When are you free to deal with the cartoons yourself?
Thomas : ….
Joey : If you’re still persistent on doing it yourself.
Thomas : ….
..
Joey : (sigh)
Good we still have help.
Thomas : (under breath) God knows how long he’ll stay.
Joey : Excuse me?
Thomas : …
Joey : ..
Alright then.
So, filling the sewers?
Thomas : No.
Joey : I’ll deal with any external complications.
Thomas : You were the one who wanted to cut corners.
Joey : (about to interrupt, then withhold) It’s a worthy investment.
Thomas : (irritated) Then how about fixing those blasted elevators.
Joey : (sigh) Those’ll be fine.
Thomas : Those won’t be fine. You think a few monologues of “visions” and “ambitions” would help the elevator to work properly?
Joey : (warning) Tom.
(Thomas glares at Joey)
Joey : Fine. Fill the sewers, fix the elevators. All at once. Sounds good?
Thomas : ..
Joey : I take that as a yes.
Thomas : …
Joey : Tommy, you gotta remember this is all for the machine.
It’s all for it, one way or the other.
(Thomas’ expression becomes somewhat wear and falters)
Joey : For the studio, Tom.
For the studio.
(Ink noises)
(Thomas looks away. He makes a sharp turn and walks to some secret route.)
(Joey watches)
(He walks away too, in the opposite direction.)
(He passes the tape, possibly ignoring it.)

Joey : Jack!
Jack : (perfect poker face) Oh, hey Mister Drew, what brings you here?
(Joey is stunned for a moment, then disses off as Jack probably telling the truth.)
Joey : Just checking in.
(Jack peers behind Joey dramatically)
Jack : Where’d you come from?
Joey : Another entrance.
Jack : Gee, guess I don’t know these sewers as well.
Joey : (chuckles)
Alright, glad to see you’re still hardworking!
Jack : (haha) Of course, of course!
Joey : (Heh) Now, to change out of these shoes as well.
(Joey walks past Jack, and out the sewers. As soon as Jack’s sure Joey’s out he dashes for the tape and stops it.)
(He stares at it for a moment, carefully picking it up and returning to his station.)

(Scene cuts)

(A tape lands in Norman’s lap.)
Jack : There.
(Norman inspects it)
Norman : (Heh) Didn’t think you’d actually do it.
Jack : What? Was all that an attempt at a joke!?
Norman : (smirks) ‘Course not. I’ll get it sorted out.
Jack : (sighs, unamused)
So you tell me what’s up soon.
Norman : Sure, sure.
Jack : ..
They’re gonna fill my sewers. Overheard it.
Norman : (surprised) What?
Jack : (downbeat) Yup.
Norman : …
Anything else?
Jack : All in that tape.
Norman : ..
Thanks.
Jack : ..
Anytime.
(Jack walks off, his expression morphs into that of concern)
(Norman pulls out the other tape. He stares at the floor, as if concerned something will pop up from there.)
(He contemplates for a moment, then creaks open the floor tile again.)

(Scene : Secret room. The telephone rings. Thomas’s hand picks it up)
Thomas : Thomas Connor speaking.
….
So, you’ve gotten the tape.
……
(sighs) I know, I know. It’s quite.. disconcerting, even to me.
………
Yeah. I’ll send more reports.
… as soon as I can.
………
Alright.

[TELEPHONE HANGS UP]

Norman : So what was that again?
Thomas : (doesn’t yell, but turns around in extreme shock, panic and anger mixed in one face)
(BG MUSIC GOES SLIGHTLY INTENSE)
Norman : Just here to ask a few questions.
Thomas : (panic in voice, staggers to step forward) H-How the hell did you get here- how did you even-
Norman : We’re both curious. You answer mine and I’ll answer yours.
Thomas : ……
No.
You’re trespassing.
Get. Out.
Norman : … (stands still)
Thomas : I said get ou-
Norman (interrupt) : Surely the studio would love to hear about some secret, sinister room!
(A bluff- no one would believe Norman)
Thomas : !
(Whips out recorder)
Norman : What is this, Thomas!?
(He hits play, the recording plays)
Thomas : The hell!?
(Appalled, he grabs the recorder instinctively, but Norman slaps his hand out of the way)
Norman : (completely ignoring) What’s with the ink machine. What’s with the ink!?
Thomas : ‘scuse me!? I should be asking what you were doing EAVESDROPPING PRIVATE CONVERSATIONS!?
Norman : Well, you better learn your way around here quickly then, or else some other fly on the wall would get the dirt either way.
Thomas : …
(Harsh, stressed) How did you get here?
Norman : How did this room even exist in the first plac-
Thomas : Stop.
STOP.
Shut up.
I-
(He opens his mouth to speak, but no words come out. Thomas freezes up in panic.)
Norman : …..
….
(Norman reaches over and pulls a plank loose from the wall without another word.)
(Thomas notices, and takes a breath)
Norman : Happy?
Thomas : …
(The ink noises becomes subtle)
Thomas : …
I guess-
Enough- I-
Norman : ..
What. Is. The.Ink.
Thomas : I- I can’t-
Norman : Is Mister Drew seriously in on this?
Thomas : I can’t- I don’t-
Norman : (compelled) What is going on!?
(Thomas grabs the recorder containing his conversation and smashes it to the ground in impulse)
Norman : What the hell!?
Thomas : (snapped) I CAN’T TELL YOU, ALRIGHT!?
Norman : …
(Drag, low) Why?
Thomas : (blurt) I don’t know- I DON’T KNOW! Sammy- go ask Sammy then!? He’ll tell you, surely!
(Thomas starts to sweat)
Norman : ..
Really?
Thomas : (grits teeth, opens mouth to speak, nothing comes out)
(Norman stares at him with a cold gaze. If Thomas is really in on this conspiracy he didn’t really want to spare some sympathy)
(Thomas is panicking. He doesn’t want Norman to find out the truth, otherwise god knows if Joey would shut him up. But Norman’s being a really, really huge douchebag right now and he wouldn’t actually mind for a split second.)
Thomas : (dryly) Try.
Norman : …
Am I getting anything else from you?
Thomas : …
I-
(Quiets)
..
(He organizes his thoughts into a coherent order as much as possible.
Because honestly if Norman can somehow stop this bullshit he’s taking it also.
He just.. has to be careful.)
….

Norman : So from what I have- you lot seems to be in cahoots with Mister Drew- something ‘bout that ink machine.
..
And something ‘bout monsters.
..
Is that right?
(He knows about the groans in the darkness)
Thomas : ..
(He remains dead silent for a bit, then moves his gaze in another direction)
Monsters.
They live.
In here.
In this studio.
And in us.
..
Look out.
Norman : Why so ominous?
Thomas : …
(He turns around)
Those are your answers.
(Norman looks at the remaining log. It was good enough, he guessed.)
(The door starts to creak open.)
Thomas : ..
….
(Thomas eyes the door, then Norman, but doesn’t say anything.)
(Norman notices. He immediately ducks back into his hole and closes it)
(Sammy enters)
Sammy : …
Thomas : What. Are. You. Doing. Here.
Sammy : Joey said something about a storage room.
Thomas : What do you want
Sammy : All of the reports.
(Thomas bluntly points to a small pile of papers on the bookshelf.)
(Sammy takes it)
(He notices the lighter side of hell record that’s.. for some reason stuck between a few books on the shelf. He takes it as well and leaves.)
(Thomas waits until Sammy leaves completely, and carefully eyes the loose plank behind him.)

(A series of footsteps echo down and away, signaling that Norman has left)
(Thomas glares for a moment, then grabs his toolbox, and starts to seal up that plank)

(Scene cuts)

(Norman walks down the stairs of the projection booth)
(Jack is waiting for him)
Jack : (question) So? What’s up?
Norman : ..
(Still irritated)
Jack : Norman?
Norman : (Impulse) Nothing important you need to know of.
(Ink noises rises)
Jack : (angered) Pardon!?
Norman : Yeah.
(Norman starts walking away, but Jack grabs him)
Jack : Sorry!? I gave- I risked my entire job getting you that stupid conversation on tape and you’re just going to- what? Diss it off like I shouldn’t know it!?
Norman : It’s for the best.
Jack : Tell. Me.
Norman : (blunt) No.
Jack : Then I’d love to hear the reason!
Norman : Well, what if I don’t want to share the reason?
Jack : Then don’t expect another favor from me. Ever.
Norman : Wow, holding grudges now, are we?
Jack : I wouldn’t mind holding one on you.
Norman : You’d wish you never knew.
Jack : Gee, I wonder how bad it could be!
Norman : (squirm) Let go.
Jack : No.
(Norman tries to pull, but boy does the lyricist has a strong grip)
Norman : I SAID LET GO!!
(He does something in a swift motion, and Jack loosens his grip)
(He pulls his arm away, a darkened spot where Jack just gripped him)
Jack : (irritated) Hey!?
(Norman stares for a moment, panting, then storms down the hall and out the department.)
Jack: …
Sammy : What. Is. This.
Jack : S-
Sammy : Where is Norman!?
Bystander : Just left!!
Sammy : … (a thousand swear words running through his head)
(Beads of sweat rolls down his face)
Someone. Go. Get. Him.
Jack : I-
Sammy : Now.
(A random musician runs past and out)
Jack : …
(Sammy stares for a moment.)
(Jack doesn’t meet his eyes)
Sammy : (answering the question in Jack’s head) You wouldn’t be able to get him to come back. (Turns around and walks inside)
Jack : !
(Jack holds his hand for a moment.
He takes a few deep breaths, tightens his lips)
(The ink noises ceases)
(He follows Sammy)

(Scene cuts)

(Alice is in the vents. Tears are running down her face, but she doesn’t sniffle.)
(She’s sitting next to an air grate with light slipping from the outside)
(The ink noise is at MAX)
Alice : ..
…
Sammy, why would you…?
Why..?
..
….

Joey : Alright, that’s a wrap.
(Alice grits her teeth, she cries out in a fury as she lifts her fist in a punching pose.)
(The background turns to black before she could do anything.)
(A pair of curious little eyes (ink’s eyes) appears in the shadows)
(Alice looks up at it)
Alice : ….
Ink : Susie.
Alice : Don’t. Call. Me. That.
(This Scene omits ink)
(Alice looks up as Also Alice speaks)
Also Alice : What’s wrong, honey?
Alice : …
Also Alice : That wretched man, he dared to make a deal with the devil. Dragging the demon’s ink EVERYWHERE!! How dare he… how dare!?
Alice : ..
Also Alice : An Angel needs to interfere, Susie.
Alice : ..
Also Alice : Stop this madness.
Stop them.
And you can become beautiful again..
(Alice looks up a bit)
Also Alice : A deed must be done to achieve the prize, right?
Work hard, work happy. He always says that, doesn’t he?
What a perfect opportunity, what are the chances? Hm?
Alice : ..
(Alice’s expression shifts into an angered one)
(Also Alice chuckles softly, both as twisted Alice and toon Alice)
Twisted Alice : Come now, little angel, we’ve got work to do..
(She extends her hand, watching if Susie would take it)
(Susie doesn’t hesitate. She takes it immediately, and Twisted Alice kneels, to match Susie’s eyesight.)
Twisted Alice : Very well, darling. Let’s have some fun…
[MUSIC GOES INTENSE]
[scene cuts]
(Wally opens the soup hoard cupboard, he can’t find Alice)
(Wally looks up, the air grate disappeared)
Wally : (nervous) Milla..?
(He pushes himself up the ledge, checking the air vents.)
(A trail of ink leads inside it, Wally’s face morphs into a perplexed one.)
(A small cry weeps out.)
(Wally carefully backs off, he pulls out a screwdriver, and starts patching the grate.)

(Scene cuts)

(Scene : Ink Machine Chamber. Joey is alone. A worktable is set up in the middle of the room. On the desk lay a few books, one notebook-looking book with a worn cover and papers sticking out, a few empty inkwells, a few filled inkwells, a few buckets of ink on the floor next to him. A few syringes.
The six ritual items he picked from the copious amount of whatnots.)
(Joey picks up the og illusion of living silently. He opens it slowly, and a photo of Henry, him and Abby falls out. Half of it flutters into the small puddle of spilt ink on the table. He quickly picks it up and stuffs it back into the book, rather hastily.)
(He freezes for a moment, then draws a breath, then placing the book down.)
(Shot : Only Joey’s eyes, front face. He squints as something seems to happen.)
(Shot : a syringe filled with dark red liquid, presumably Joey’s blood.)
(Shot : Back view. Joey’s doing something.)
(Shot : on the table. Joey’s finger lifts off as a pentagram is drawn on the table. The six items are laid around it.)
(The ink seems to be attracted to it.)
(It slowly draws itself into the blood, mixing into one and the same, then stops.)
(The whole room starts to shake. All the ink in the room starts bubbling intensely. Joey backs off, frozen in place, biting his lip, like suppressing bad memories.)
(The room stops shaking then.)
(He walks forward again.)
(Shot : pentagram. All the ink surrounding the circle absorbs it and turns it plus the blood into a single ink heart. That’s deformed.)
(All six ritual items lose their color and turn sepia and black.)
(Joey stares for a moment, then picks the heart up, not minding the stains.)
(The ink suddenly starts moving as he wills, surrounding him ominously)
(A small, satisfied smile grows on his face.)
(He slowly writes down onto a paper : The Heart)
(The scene cuts, but flashes a silhouette of Henry for a split second.)

[Scene 12 : END]

Chapter Text

(Music department)
Joey : Hello!
Jack : (not jumpy anymore) Hello, Mister Drew.
Joey : You don’t look too swell.
Jack : …
Yeah, I suppose not.
Joey : Ah, well, would you like to-
Jack : (strained) No, thank you.
Joey : Okay then.
(Pauses for a moment)
(Then asks) Have you seen Sammy?
Jack : Needed some time in his “office”.
(Joey eyes Sammy’s office. No, he’s not in there.)
Joey : Oh, would you mind telling him I’ll be needing him in my office later?
Jack : …
Yeah, sure.
(Joey smiles, then starts walking away.)
Jack : (blurt) Why?
Joey : ?
Jack : (fibbing) Meetin’ up a lot more often these days, eh?
(Jack’s trying not to shit his pants. Why is he suddenly blurting out all these? A thousand thoughts runs through his mind.)
(Joey narrows his eyes at him, but his posture doesn’t shift.)
Joey : (slightly dark) Oh! Ask Sammy ‘bout that!
Jack : ..
.
Okay.
Joey : (smiles again)
(Now leaves the music dept for real)

(Scene : Projection booth)
(Norman is sitting alone. He wanted answers, he wanted to know. But these.. they were more shady, sneakier than he’d ever be.)
(He quietly stares at his projector.)
(He looks down, wondering if Sammy was still there.)
(No he isn’t there.)
(The conductor stand omits Sammy’s notebook.)
(Norman looks thoughtful.)

(Scene cuts)

(It’s quiet, the music department has closed for the night and all the employees had either gone home/went somewhere else)
Norman approaches the stand. He looks at Sammy’s notebook, ready to open it.
Sammy (showing up from the sanctuary): You. Get. Your. Hands. Off. That.
Norman (slightly alerted): Oh..?
That’s where you’ve been.
Sammy (through gritted teeth): What. are you doing with MY notes?
Norman (insincere): Sorry. Since you’re here anyways, might as well ask what’s your favorite tune.
Tell me, what is it?
Sammy (scoffing, amused): Is that really any of your-
(Realization)
(Sammy’s secret room is rigged by playing his favorite tune in chapter 2)
Oh.
Norman:What? Can’t I know Sammy Lawrence’s (mockery) favorite song?
Sammy: I thought I made it clear I can fire you.
Norman: And would you? Really?
Sammy:….
Norman (unsurprised): No?
Sammy: You know you mustn’t trespass.
Norman: I. Am. THE projectionist. This music department is equally all my ground to step on as much as it is yours.
Sammy: …

Of course, I can’t stop you.
Norman (stares at Sammy, as if waiting for something)
Sammy:.. Waiting for me to leave?
Norman: -

The deal with Joey.
WHY.

Sammy (he stares in surprise, then his mouth slowly curves into a tiny smirk):
You wouldn’t understand.
Norman (enraged): You- this isn’t- is this what SAMMY would do?!
Sammy (coldly): …. You misjudged me.
Norman (his eyes suddenly swirl into a glow, but he doesn’t realize it)
Sammy : Now, turn off that tape, will you?
Don’t worry about how I know.
Your hearing tends to catch on to “disturbances” quicker than others when you..
Work with music a lot.
Distinguishing sounds, you know all that stuff, don’t you?
I’m sure you’ll get your answers soon.
One way or the other, projectionist..
(Norman stands there, gripping his tape. He hated that tone of mockery, condescension.)
(Sammy narrows his eyes at Norman one last time.)
(Norman isn’t in the mood to fight anymore. He had the tape. He had everything.)
(The shot follows Sammy.)
(Sammy’s demeanor shifts as he goes to his music sheet closet. He grabs more reports from it, but he seems to be in a grim mood, a contrast to the condescending tone he just put on earlier.)
(An unused tape is in the closet. Sammy stares for a moment, then picks it up.)
(Maybe he can use a little time to let off some steam.)

(Scene cuts)

(Scene opens)

(Lunch break of the next day!)
(Wally walks in)
(Wally hums a tune to himself as he starts mopping.)
(Jack notices Wally)
Jack : (mildly surprised) Wally! Been a few days!
Wally : Oh, hello Jack! Skipping lunch, eh?
Jack : No, just about to head out.
Wally : Ah, well, have a nice lunch!
(Wally practically skips past Jack)
Jack : …
You’re pretty cheery today.
Wally : Yep, ol’ Wally hasn’t seen a single disaster in a while!
Jack : That’s nice.
Wally : A few whispers and talks here and there, but really nothing out of the blue.
(Jack feels like Wally is acting a little high)
Jack : Anything about that machine? Sewers?
Wally : Aside from a few spilled ink, nothing I s’pose.
Jack : ..
Wally : ..
(sigh)
Look, Jack, I don’t think I’ll be digging more.
Jack : Hm?
Wally : You wanna know, you gotta find out yourself, but I’d rather put it that if Mister Drew wants to keep a secret, he’ll keep it secret. Things above my pay grade ain’t for me to find out.
Jack : …
..
I guess so.
Wally : ..
Well, that was a lovely chat, but you gotta have your lunch, and I gotta do my job.
I’m outta here!
(Cap salute)
(Jack stands there, unsure of what to do or think.
Wally seems pretty dippy happy. Living in pretty much bliss, he guessed.)
(He exhales, and leaves the department.)

[LOG STARTS]
Sammy’s log : ????
“All the whispers, all the noises, all the chatters. They keep spewing and spewing and talking, like they know what to do. As if they could sacrifice what needs to be done, those useless sheeps.

They don’t understand, and they won’t ever, won’t they?
(A snicker-snort) Ah, could anyone else then, I wonder?
Not even Joey really even knows what he’s doing.
Oh, but I must meet his expectations, no? For that’s what he hired me for.
…
They’re all watching, Sammy.
Your songs, and your.. tainted work.
Keep it up.
Keep it all up.
Get the job done.
They’re all watching.
….
They’re all waiting.”
[LOG ENDS]

(Scene : projection booth)
(Jack enters)
(Jack takes a step back when he sees Norman)
Jack : ..
(Not really in the mood to talk)
You.. have “Hell in a handbasket”?
Norman : (blunt) No. Over at Editing.
Jack : Aight.
(Jack glares down at a small pile of tapes terribly hidden away)
Jack : Oh god.
Norman : !
Jack : What on earth!?
Norman : (ignoring) It’s over at Editing. It’s not here.
(Jack’s about to say something, but he shuts up in exasperation)
Jack : (dry) Thanks.
(He walks out of the booth.)
(Sammy passes by, ignoring Jack.)
(Jack feels disconcerted by all this.)
Allison : Hello!
Jack : Oh, hi!
(Heh) Gee, haven’t seen you lately!
Allison : I suppose I can say the same to you.
(Glances)
Is.. Norman..?
Jack : Ah, well, h-
..
Busy with.. his errands.
Allison : Oh?
Jack : Yeah. Some nonsense here and there, best leave him be.
(Heh) Do his own things, you know..
Allison : Well, he has always been a peculiar one.
Jack : Yup!
(Sweating internally)
Allison : …
Is Sammy out again?
Jack : Yes.
Allison : (sigh) I suppose I’ll have to wait.
(Allison turns on her heels.)
Allison : If you don’t mind, let him know I’m ready?
Jack : (strained) Yes, of course.
(Shot on Allison : ….)

(Scene cuts)

(Scene opens)
(Ink machine chamber)
(Joey’s pacing around the room, rambling)
Joey : Gosh, Sammy, I must say, this is one of the closest we’ve ever gotten to a perfect result!
Sammy : ..
Joey : Y’know, I don’t really tell you this enough, but the moment I saw you that day, I knew you were the right man for the job.
I just knew you’d understand my vision, and you did!
Everything you’ve contributed to this studio has been phenomenal.
And with this, it’ll exceed the audience’s expectations like never before!
You’re willing to make sacrifices, and because of you, many dreams are going to come true.
Just watch!
(Shot switches between Sammy and Joey multiple times here)
(Sammy seems uneasy)
(Joey chuckles in response)
Joey : Come on, Sammy, lighten up a bit.
Sammy : …
(Low) Thanks, Joey.
Joey : ..
Your welcome.
(Joey motions Sammy towards the secret room)
(Sammy glares in that direction)

(Scene cuts)

(Secret room by the ink machine. Joey had just finished another experiment and Sammy came in to take his mind off things)
Sammy (quietly leaning against the wall)
(He pulls out a smoke)
Thomas: Smoking is prohibited in here.
It’s a closed area.
Sammy: ..Tom?
Thomas: Thomas.
Sammy: Why are you still here?
Thomas:…
Just because you replaced me in one task doesn’t mean I’m fired.
Sammy: I see.
(He looks away, but nearly collapses out of exhaustion. Out of instinct, Thomas grabs Sammy’s arm just before he hits the floor. Sammy seems slightly infuriated by that sudden pain, but mumbles a small “thank you” nonetheless)
Thomas:Sammy.
He’s burning you out, can’t you see?
Open your goddamn eyes.
Stay away from him-
Sammy: Does it matter that he’s making me do both our jobs?
If you’re not competent enough, then is that an issue I should be worrying about?
We’re running a real business here, not a laze.

A sheep that can’t follow the shepherd…

Thomas: Enough
I warned you.

Sammy : … I’m just trying to keep us afloat.
Thomas : For goodness’ sake-
-(convo blurs out)
(Tape clicks)

(Convo blurs in again)
Thomas : All that I’m trying to tell you- is to not trust him so.. blindly.
Sure as hell you can go ahead and work with me- if you’re so accepting about it..
Sammy : …
And what about you?
Do you trust him?
Thomas : … (no, I have a double motive and it’s none of your business)
(Sammy glares suspiciously at him, then sighs, muttering something under his breath.)
Sammy : Honestly, I do have to agree his management is pretty much… terrible.
Thomas : ?
Are you just trying to make us reach a consensus on something? For what?
Sammy : Perhaps I thought it’ll make you stop bothering me about my choice.
Thomas : Oh of course, your choice. (Sarcasm)
(Sammy bites his lip)
Sammy : We’re. just. followers.
We are both sacrificing our own things to contribute to this company.
Choice or not.
(Thomas balls his fist. Sammy doesn’t understand Thomas is staying for his machine only. To perfect it and stop all this chaos.)
(Thomas doesn’t say another word. He leaves the room)
(Sammy stays)
(Cuts to behind the walls)
(Norman is holding a tape recorder, he caresses it gently and stuffs into his pocket)
Norman’s POV: .. Enough of this, Sammy

(Scene : projection booth)
(Norman’s hooking up random tidbits to random machinery.)
(He looks stressed and in a hurry as he does so, biting his lip)
(He accidentally drops something, the intercom throughout the building rings.)
(Sammy hears it, clear and loud (in his sanctuary), doesn’t think much of it at first, but quickly realizes what it means.)
(He stands up in a hurry, and dashes to the projection booth.)
(The sanctuary door slams shut behind him, causing the room to slightly shake.)
(Norman flinches as Sammy bursts the door open, panting, his face contorting in fury.)

Sammy : (raging) What are you doing!?
(Norman blankly stares at him, placing down the tapes he had collected.)
(It plays in front of Sammy.)
(Sammy’s face pales.)
(Norman stares coldly)
(Sammy instinctively reaches out to grab them.)
(Norman holds his wrist back.)
Norman : Ah-ah.
(Sammy stares in shock and panic.)
(He tries to squirm out, but Norman has an equally tight grip as Jack. Maybe he learned.)

Sammy : (low) What are you trying to do!?
Norman : Exactly what anyone would do knowing all those shady things.
Sammy : (oh)
(Heh) So, it’s my fault for your intense thirst for the truth then?
Norman : It was my choice.
Sammy : Then leave mine be.
Norman: No.
(Pulls Sammy close) I’m willing to make a deal.
Sammy (angered, another bloody deal): What. Do you. Want!?
Norman: I just need you to stop.
Stop, and help me. Help me take down that.. machine.
(Low, whisper) That cursed machine.
Sammy: ….
Norman: .. Clock’s ticking.
(His hand reaches over to the button, Sammy lunges forward, pulling Norman along, and grabs his other hand. The two struggle as Sammy tries to pull Norman back.)
Sammy: DON’T. YOU. DARE.
(The projectionist says nothing, he keeps on pulling it back as well.)
Norman : If you think you’re “contributing”, why not let them all hear it!?
Sammy : I don’t need any more unnecessary complications.
Norman : (a mirthless laugh) Oh, but I doubt it’s something you can’t solve.
(Sammy spins Norman rather harshly into a position away from the intercom. Norman still has one hand on Sammy’s wrist.)
(Both their pupils turn black, but neither realize.)
(The ink noises start bubbling loudly)
Sammy : When did you ever care, Norman? (Spit)
Thought you were always bright.
Norman : (hah) Ah, so perhaps we both misjudged.
Sammy : What did you expect, really?
Norman : Anything but this.
Sammy : …
(Sammy lets go, watching Norman tumble backwards.)
Sammy : Some of us make their sacrifices.
Norman : You-
Joey: (interrupting) Well, boys, what might seem to be the problem here?

The two fall silent then stare back at each other, realizing how stupid they’re probably looking in front of the other employees right now.
Joey: …
(Sigh)
I’m.. quite disappointed to see.. such a scene happening. Why?
(Sammy slightly freaks out at the remark and freezes
The musician says nothing then, only glaring with a look that’s asking “Well? Tell him then?” To Norman. The projectionist stays silent too.)
Norman: Apologies. It was.. a mixup, in items.
Joey: .. (cold,low) I wouldn’t like to see a childish play like this again.
Sammy:.. Understood.
Joey: Good.
Joey looks at the employees gawking at them.
Joey: (snappish, angry) Back to work!
(He stares at Sammy. The musician could read his expression screaming: He’s not an idiot)
(They scurry away quickly)
Joey: Three chances left, Norman, otherwise I’ll have to consider termination.
(Joey leaves after that)
(Norman is visibly horrified)
Norman: I-
Sammy: Do not. Speak. Of this. Again.
Norman: (quickly goes back to his demeanor) …
(Sammy walks past, scans Norman for any trace of the tape, but the projectionist has it hidden already)

Allison (watching from below): … They sure do bicker a lot.
Grace: It has always been like this.
Allison: What?
Grace: … Sammy. Jack. Norman. Those three in particular. Used to see eye to eye, but it all.. changed.
With that workload, I’m not very surprised though.
Allison: Oh, I see..
Grace: Usually Susie, y’know, the old voice actress, comes and keeps the peace between ‘em. At least long enough until one of them calms down.
Allison: Susie..?
Grace: Oh yeah. Ever since that incident, you know, you saw it, she never came back here. Guess that was the last straw-
(Allison’s face pales)
Grace: Oh- sorry. I uh- shouldn’t be talking about this.
Allison: So Susie was the… peacemaker?
Grace: I guess you could say so?
Allison: (her expression is still shocked, Joey didn’t hire her just to replace Susie for a random reason…)
Grace: You.. you don’t look good. Do you need anything?
Allison: Do I? Apologies.
How did Susie pry them apart?
Grace: I mean Sammy had a soft spot for her.
Allison: Oh.
Grace: Guess she had the charm.
Allison: …..
Grace: Looking to keep the peace too?
Allison: Pretty much.
Grace: Well, I’ll really appreciate that. And a lot of others will.
Allison: Uh.. Mhm…

(Scene : entrance)

(Jack squints at Sammy. What was up with that?)
Jack : Sa-
Sammy : No.
Jack : ?!
Sammy : (cold, icy, mixed with frustration) You don’t need to know.
(Jack seethes. Why does everyone underestimate him?? Norman and now Sammy!?)

Allison : Jack..?
Jack : Allis-
..
(Sigh)
I need a coffee.
Allison : (confused) Oh, alright then.
(Jack leaves the department.)
(Allison, standing perplexed. She stares at the projection booth quietly, the doors locked tight.)
(Allison turns on her heels. She walks down the hall to collect herself.)
(Suddenly, she hears Alice humming.)
(Allison touches her throat. She wasn’t humming.)
(Oh god it sounds like Susie)
(Allison turns sharply to look at the air vents. It’s creepily emitting from there.)
(Other employees are looking at her like she’s crazy or something)
(She scratches her eye, in a “I’m kinda sleepy” manner, but quickly collects herself and books it out of there.)
(A faint “I’m ALICE ANGEL” can be heard in the distance.)

(Scene cuts)

(Scene : secret room)

(The wall plank rumbles, then a ton of loud knocks on it. Thomas stares, anticipating this. The knocking eventually ceases, but a frustrated sigh cries out.)
(Thomas walks over, opening a small gash in the wall just enough to see at eye level.)
(Sure enough Norman’s still there, slouching on the floor like a disappointed child.)
(He notices Thomas, and stands up to meet his gaze.)

Thomas : …
Norman : ..
Thomas : Why did you do that.
Norman : ..
Thomas : (harsh) Why.
Norman : ..
Thomas : (sigh)
I’m not surprised.
Eavesdropping. Again.
..
Did you really think that’d stop Sammy?
Norman : Maybe I was just curious.
Thomas : Know your limits.
(Thomas turns around.)
Norman : Says you.
And your machine.
Thomas : (pauses)
You of all people should know what being attached to a prized possession is like.
Norman : …
Thomas : ..
(Norman pulls out a tape recorder.)
(The tape whirring sound is extremely loud.)
(Thomas doesn’t turn around.)
Thomas : Why are you doing this.
Norman : (deadpan) What?
(Thomas turns 180 on his heels)
Thomas : Why are you stalling? Why are you fooling around, Norman!? Do you think it’s so FUNNY watching us trying to WORK with all of this!? Adding unnecessary complications is NOT HELPING!! What THE HELL DO YOU WANT!?
Norman : I want that thing. GONE.
Thomas : Then do it. Evidence’s written all over your logs. Mister Drew’s sitting in his office. Easy publicity stunt.
Norman : …
I.. can’t.
Thomas : WHY!?
Norman : Because ..
I don’t - I don’t want this place gone, alright!?
Thomas : Why.
We both know this place’s a hellhole.
Norman : It. Wasn’t. A hellhole.
Thomas : …
As far as I’m aware, it has always been.
Norman : ..
(Ink noises)
Goddamnit.. GODDAMNIT!! Don’t you dare speak like you know this place, TOM! (Thomas flinches) Everything was FINE. Then you came here, dragging metal plates, pipes, ink and whatnot alo-
Thomas : (cold, low, interrupting) It was Joey’s decision.
Norman : But you still made that thing didn’t you? You had all rights to it, GENT has all rights to it. And you did no-
Thomas : Joey said-
Norman : (losing it) A LOAD OF BALONEY IS WHAT HE SAID!! You think someone like HIM would claim responsibility for something like THIS!?
(Seething)
(Thomas flinches)
Norman : I want it gone.
I want the studio back. The one with no “ink flooding” or pipes that burst randomly without notice, or malfunctioning elevators, or people being ominous, conspiring on illegal business deals, or a monstrous caricature of this DEMON. I want a simple taste of “normal”, is that too much to ask!?
(Thomas freezes)
Thomas : You know about it.
Norman : Well, someone had to find out what was making those noises.
Thomas : (demeanor shifts drastically) Y- You- you didn’t let it out- right?
Norman : ‘course not.
Thomas : ..
(Deep breaths)
Swell.
Norman : ..
What is that thing..
Thomas : ..
Norman : Who was it.
Who did you take, molded it into that thing.
Thomas : ..
(Whisper) No one.
Norman : ..
Thomas : ..
(Thinks for a moment.)
(Glances at Norman.)
(He turns around as he speaks, )
You want a taste of normalcy?
You want your old studio back?
Norman : (spite-ish) Yeah! Yeah-
Thomas : (interrupting) Then sweet dreams, Norman.
This place is far beyond normal.
(The slot slams shut in Norman’s face.)
(Norman jumps back, alerted, then starts trying to open it again, to no avail.)
(On the other side of the room, Thomas is on the floor, angered. Annoyed, irritated perhaps.)
(The scene cuts to black)

[I JUST NEED TO FIX IT
I JUST NEED TO FIX IIIIIIIITTTTTTTTTTTTTTT-
(The ink ambience cuts in)
(Splashing sounds as something seems to step in the ink)
(The infirmary, Bendy is sobbing quietly in the corner. The employees are bickering again. He doesn’t like it.)
Ink :
I’M SORRY, MY CHILD
(The ink demon flinches, looking back to the same wall)
Ink :
THOUGH, PLEASE WORRY NOT.
(The ink rapidly forms around the ink demon, like a warm hug)
Ink :
I’VE BEEN GIVEN STRENGTH.

THOUGH… IT’S NOT WHAT I’D LIKE.
..
HENRY WOULD HATE IT.
…
THEY WILL SET YOU FREE.

THEY
WILL

(Ink demon sighs, breathing heavily, then slowly softens, like a cat purring in a warm blanket.)
(That feels better for him.)

(Scene cuts for an extended time.)

(Thomas’s walking down the hall, heading to administration, trying to take his mind off things.)
(He’s breathing rather heavily)
(He notices Grant there again.)
(He watches as Grant enters Joey’s office.)
(Thomas thinks for a moment, and decides to wait outside, if he wants to see Joey)
Grant : Mister Drew.
Joey : Grant!
(Notices Grant looking absolutely disheveled, probably almost on par with Sammy)
Need a drink?
Grant : No, I’m good.
(Grant takes a seat)
Joey : Well then, here’s some of the leftover bills from this month.
Grant : (grunt) Alright, thank you.
(Grant looks at some of the bills, his brows scrunch in peculiarity and he puts his hand up to his mouth)
Joey : Something wrong?
Grant : ..
Repairs are much more frequent than usual, Mister Drew.
Joey : Ah, about that.
(Joey squints outside his door. He sees Thomas pacing around.)
Joey :(loud clap) Perfect!
Grant : Pardon?
Joey : There’s something I want to show you! (Grin)
Come on, Grant. Just that little project of mine, I know it’s costly, but…
(Hand gestures)
(Grant narrows his eyes at him. He knows what he means. : fudge the numbers, please)
Grant : Yes.
Yes, I know.
Joey : Perfect!
(Joey speeds his feet outside, motioning Grant to follow. Grant does.)
(Thomas notices the two of them outside.)
Grant : Hello, Mister Connor.
(Thomas is a little surprised.)
Thomas : Grant.
Joey : Tommy! Let’s go!
(Thomas’s face immediately darkens)
Thomas : ..
No.
Joey : Come on, Tom.
Thomas : No. We don’t need any more people.
Joey : Oh, he’s not- directly helping!
(Thomas turns on his heels, screw it, let’s just ignore Joey.)
Joey : Thomas.
(Thomas stops for a moment.)
Joey : (as if a dark cloud is looming over Joey) I’ll just have to tour him then.
Thomas : ….
(Whisper) Good luck, Joey.
Joey : …
(Grant notices the tension between the two.)
Grant : Please, make it quick.
Joey : Ah, sorry! (Dry laughs)
Come, come!

(Thomas glares as the two walk away.)
(He shakes his fist, his mouth opens to speak, but no sound comes out.)
(The ink noises become subtle again.)

Allison : Thomas?
Thomas : (slightly jumps) Allison.
Allison : Oh, if you don’t mind me asking, what was that?
Thomas : …
Allison : Ah, you do mind me asking. Noted.
Thomas : Just.. some issues.
Allison : I see.
Thomas : (sighs) Do you know what happens when someone overcomplicates things out of impatience?
Allison : I-
Thomas : A melodrama ensues.
Allison : …
Okay.
Would you like to.. grab something to eat?
I mean, assuming you’re on your break.
Thomas : ..
(He ponders for a moment, after all that crap, maybe it would be nice to have someone not staring daggers at him next to him for a while.)
Yeah.
Yeah I think I would.
Allison : Great! Miracle lounge or vending machine?
Thomas : Whatever you prefer.
Allison : Ah, the lounge it is then.
Thomas : Swell.
(Allison smiles in delight, quite happy to cheer him up. After all she knows what it’s like to be a newbie and get gawked at.)
Allison : Let’s go, then.
(Thomas anxiously glances at the clock once more.)
Allison : …
It’ll be fine.
Forget about Mister Drew for a moment!
Thomas : ..
Sure.
(Allison starts walking, and Thomas follows.)
(Scene cuts)

(Scene : outside the ink machine room)
(Grant’s face is rather pale, he has his hand over his mouth, and he seems sickly.
His body shakes nervously, but he attempts to compose himself.)
Wally : Grant?
Grant : W-Wally
Wally : Gee, you need some meds? Something wrong in your belly?
Grant : I-I’ll be fine.
Wally : ..
(Sigh) Well, if you insist so.
Grant : (exhale)
Wally : Mister Drew called?
Grant : (exasperated) Yeah.
Wally : ..
The Ink Machine?
Grant : The thing. That project, isn’t it?
Wally : Yep.
Grant : (tight-lipped) Mmhm. Yes. Just checked it out.
Wally : (Heh) Hope that wasn’t a bit too tough.
I mean, it leaks ink, blows pipes, makes weird, creepy noises..
(Heh) Might have a devil of a time managing all that-
Grant : (a bit quickly and slightly dismissive) -Yes, yes, Wally. I’m well aware.
Wally : Oh-
Grant : … (deep breath) Thank you, anyways.
Wally : (er) You’re welcome?
Oh, and if you see Thomas, mind telling him I’m ready to meet up?
Grant : (still kinda blurry) Thomas-?
(Realizing) Oh, yes, of course. No worries.
Wally : ..
Alright then, I’m outta here.
(Wally walks down the hall)
(Grant watches for a moment, then leaves as well)
(Scene cuts)
(R&D)
(Loud whirring sounds and sparks as Lacie is welding a few pieces of metal together.)
(She notices Wally)
Lacie : Wally Franks?
Wally : Lacie!
Lacie : Whatcha doin here? Don’t see you around here often.
Wally : Bet some goons locked themselves outta their own back room again.
Lacie : (low mutter) Fantastic.
Wally : (Heh) Gimme a moment.
(Wally walks over with a key jingle)
(Unlocks)
Guy 1 : Gosh, thanks Wally!
Guy 2 : Sorry ‘bout this again.
Guy 3 : Honestly, we should just ask Bertrum for a copy.
(Lacie sighs, stopping her tool.
Lacie : (spit-ish) Just look at yourselves, Bertrum’s never gunna give you one, morons.
(Wally looks at her)
(He sighs, then looks at the guys)
Wally : Look guys! You’re smart, right? Here's an idea! Why not rig these games to knock open the door if ya win?
It'll be fun for you guys, and it saves me the trip down here every day.
Guy 3 : Huh, I mean, doesn’t hurt to try.
Guy 1 : (shrug) Swell.
Lacie : …
Wally : Would save me a load of time as well. I mean, dunno ‘bout you, but I’m not the biggest fan of walking through these halls! Spooky noises, creepy sounds, I’d bet something’s behind these walls! (Dry laugh)
Guy 2 : ..
Wally, y- you’ve been hearing them?
Wally : If you mean the noises, yup.
Guy 2 : God, I thought it was just me.
Have you- found out what ‘tis?
Wally : No.
Lacie : Blah, nonsense! (Welding sounds roars again)
(Welp, Lacie, skepticism?)
Wally : Anyhow, better go. Good luck, I’m outta here!
Guy 2 : ..
Guy 1 : Christ.
Guy 2 : C’mon. Let’s rig this dang game.
Guy 3 : Lacie, you- you really haven’t heard?
Lacie : ..
(Fib) No.
Guy 3 : ….
Lucky you then.
Lacie : Yeah. Suppose so.
Guy 2 : (sigh)
Something’s not right.
Guy 1 : Haven’t you heard ‘bout Music?? People are disappearing in flocks!
Guy 2 : Not really surprised. Something’s really up.
Guy 3 : ….
(Sigh)

(Scene cuts)

(Administration)
Guy 4 : Sorry, Mister Drew.
Joey : (sigh) Can’t stop you, can I?
Can you at least get this month done??
Guy 4 : I’m sorry, next train leaves tomorrow.
Joey : …
(Sigh)
How ‘bout today?
Guy 4 : Yeah, guess I can do that.
Joey : (grim) Swell.
Guy 4 : Sorry again, Mister Drew.
Joey : ..
(Reminds him of Henry leaving)
(Thomas walks in, in a slightly better mood.)
Joey : Tommy!
Thomas : J-
Joey : (whisper) Have you been going around saying things!?
Thomas : ..
No.
Joey : (still whispering) They know, they know about that.. demon.
Thomas : (shocked, looks away, thinking)
.. Damnit.
Damnit, oh god..
Joey : Tom, you better deal with this!
Thomas : How-
Joey : (panic in his pace) Goodness, if it happens, we’re done.
Thomas : (he starts panicking, taking a breath then out rapidly)
Joey : Tom, are you hearing me-!?
Allison : Gosh, Mister Drew, what’s going on!?
Thomas : Allison-
Joey : I-
(Allison steps in)
Allison : Sorry, Mister Drew, I don’t know what’s going on-
But please, let’s not make a scene.
Not here.
Joey : …
Allison..
Allison : (slowly) Please.
Best not.
Thomas : Allison, it’s-
Allison : (interrupting) Let’s go.
(In the background, Wally walks into Joey’s office. Joey’s in the middle of the shot, front face, unsure what to do, and not expecting Allison to intervene.)
Joey :.. (sigh)
(The conversation becomes a blur as the camera focuses on Wally instead)
(He looks at the busy group for a second, then decides to just go do his job.)

(Scene cuts)

(In Joey’s office, Wally opens the door and starts to sweep.)
(He hums a quiet tune to himself, staring at the floor.)
(He continues dusting the shelves)
(Coughs because of the dust as well)
(A soft crack)
(He looks over)
(He walks over to Joey’s desk)
(A shelf left open is creaking in the darkness.)
(Wally walks over to check it out)
(The Ink Heart is in the shelf)
(Wally’s brows scrunch in peculiarity. Something’s wrapped in scrap paper.)
(He picks it up, odd texture, it leaks ink out of it.)
(He makes a disgusted face, and throws it into his bin.)
(He heaves the bin onto his cart, among many other bins, and starts dragging away.)

(Scene cuts)

(Janitor closet)
(Detail : air grate is slightly off and broken, and has ink stains.)
(Wally loads of everything and starts cleaning up)
(The packaged paper falls to the floor, and the heart rolls out.)
(Wally doesn’t notice at first, taking off his gloves to change for a new one.)
(He finally notices, staggering back in shock)
Wally : OH GOLLY-
(He looks a bit closer at it. Actually, it looks more like.. a sculpture of sort.)
(Wally bends down to look at it.)
Wally : Huh..?
(He picks it up.)
(The scene shakes as something courses through Wally. It was like.. power? But.. it didn’t feel right.)
Wally : ARGH!!
(He drops the heart of the machine.)
(It flops to the floor.)
(He pants, grabbing his chest. He quickly puts on his gloves and picks it back up, throwing it into a box. He shuts the box, and freezes for a moment, skepticism still written on his face.
He takes a breath, then decides to leave it there.)
(Wally turns around, and looks at the floor. There’s an ink puddle there.)
(He grabs his mop, and tries to mop it, but it keeps moving away.)
(He grumbles, and continues trying.)

(Scene cuts)

(Ink Machine chamber)
Allison : (sigh)
I don’t- I really don’t understand, what’s his issue with you!?
Thomas : …
(Mirthless laugh) Messing up on the job, that’s all.
Allison : Sorry, looks to me he’s messing up on his job as well!
Thomas : No-
He.. knows way too well what he’s doing.
Allison : ..
(Sigh) Hope so.
Thomas : ..
Allison : You.. are you alright?
Thomas : Not.. really.
Allison : Need something?
Thomas : ..
I.. I just need a break. Again.
Allison : Okay.
I’ll be in Music if you want to find me.
Thomas : …
Thank you, Allison.
(Allison looks at him, then glances up the machine)
Allison : (smirk) (Heh) Anytime.
(Allison leaves the room.)
(Thomas throws his head back, sighing)
(He goes to the secret room)
(He slumps on to a crate)

(Knock knock knock)
(Crack in the wood)
Thomas : (under breath) Oh for goodness’s sake.
(The wood bursts open)
Thomas : ….
What the hell do you want now.
Norman : Tom..
Thomas : Shut up. Just- shut up! Get to the point!
Norman : …
The-
..
(He has difficulty finding words)
(Thomas doesn’t meet Norman’s eyes. He’s sick of Norman playing around.)
(A few moments of silence)
Norman : (sigh) Tom.
Thomas : “Thomas”
Norman : ..
I’ve been thinking.
Thomas : Of course you have.
Norman : Just listen to me for a second, will you!? I’m getting to the point!
Thomas : (irritated) All ears.
Norman : ..
I’ve been thinking, alright? Susie-
(Thomas flinches, tries not to freak out on the spot)
Norman : ..
Susie, she, well, she got replaced, then Sammy started working with Joey. Then all this ink machine- monsters business pops up. And then everything went to hell. It’s all a little too.. well, strange, don’t you think?
Thomas : …
Norman : ..
Are you catching on
(Thomas lightly nods a little too quickly)
Norman : ..
(Deep breath)
Do you actually know what happened to Susie..?
(Thomas starts shivering. He thinks for a moment. Deciding whether he should just book it, but that would raise suspicion, and Norman would probably catch him anyways. If he said no.. but then.. this was an opportunity to drive Sammy out of the picture.)
(The silence prolongs)
(He chokes on his next word. He’s terrified as well.)
Thomas :
..
Yes.
Norman : ..
Well?
Thomas : ..
(He swiftly reaches over to Susie’s report, among many others.)
(Ink noises)
(He decides for a moment.
Hey, it’s his machine.
He wants Sammy out? He wants Joey a little less bothersome? This was it.
Safe, smooth, no one’s finding out.)
(Thomas walks over, and shows Norman the report.)
Norman : ..
Oh god..
Thomas : …
(Sharp breath)
Happy? Is that what you wanted to know?
Norman : ..
..
(Norman takes a moment. He had this terrible suspicion before, he just., didn’t really want to confirm it. A thousand questions run through his head.)
(Thomas is equally afraid. Of literally everything at that moment. He quickly pulls the paper away-)
Norman : Hold on- I-
…
..
Why?
Thomas : I-
I d- I don’t know-
Joey-
(He wants to spew out everything)
Norman : T-That- all the other music-
Thomas : I-
I think-
Yeah, I think-
Norman : Oh.
(Pauses)
Oh god.
(A small tear forms in Norman’s eye)
(Thomas is also on the verge of tears, of fear and all else, but he holds it in.)
Thomas : ..
You-
Norman : Damnit. Of course. I should’ve known.
…
Where- where is she now?
Thomas : …
I don’t know.
Norman : ..
How could you!?
Thomas : I didn’t-
Norman : Goddamnit, does Sammy know this!?
Thomas : I don’t-
Norman : (seething)
Really?
Thomas : …
..
Listen,
(Snaps) I DON’T KNOW, AND I DON’T THINK HE KNOWS, ALRIGHT!?
YOU THINK I WANTED THIS, NORMAN!? DO YOU!?
(Norman flinches, he balls his fists)
(Thomas flicks the paper over at Norman.)
Thomas : Have it your way. Have this damn report. Hell, I’ll even cover for you, if Joey comes after.
….
Be careful with it.
…….

I’m trusting you.
For once.
Norman : …
You really want Sammy out, do you?
Thomas : …
Norman : ..
Thanks-
(Thomas shuts the slot. That was enough.)
(Scene cuts)

(Music department)
(Sammy at his conductor stand)
(The department seems grim. Something’s not right. Really, really not right.)
(Jack is watching Sammy.)
Jack : Sammy-
(Sammy sharply turns to look at Jack.)
Sammy : ..
Jack : Joey’s not calling today? (Edge of mockery)
Sammy : (notices, but doesn’t bother to point it out) No.
(Sigh)
He calls, I go in. He doesn’t call, I stay here.
(Curt) Simple.
Jack : Liking it?
Sammy : …
You’re questioning a lot today.
Jack : Can’t I?
Sammy : Best not be so curious.
Jack : Oh? Still bitter from Norman? Tough. (Dry laugh)
Sammy : (raised voice) What’s up with you today!?
Jack : (harsh) I’m sick of being told it’s none of my business. May I remind you I’m still your second-in-command!?
Sammy : …
Jack.
(Jack flinches)
(Sammy slaps his notebook close, placing it on his stand.)
Sammy : (snaps at “reason”) I’d really hate to say this, Jack, but unless you’re an idiot, you should understand what’s not told to you is for a REASON.
(The ink noises crescendos)
(Sammy pulls Jack near to whisper in a low voice)
Do you want to know what it’s like, to shoulder the weight of expectations? To have to stay silent for a reason? To face it all with no complaints..?
(Sammy stop dumping on Jack please)
(Sammy seems to twitch for a moment, then quickly resorts back in a split second.)
(Tch)
(A snort)
I doubt you could take it.
(He kinda looks like he’s about to lose it at this moment.)
(Future Fact : Sammy’s actually right at this moment, he just has a really horrible way of communicating it through.)
(Jack’s face darkens, Sammy’s mocking the exact same dialogue given to him as a kid.)
Jack : (blurt) Oh, can’t imagine what it must be like with you in the limelight all the time.
Sammy : (cold) Just wanted to save you the hassle.
(Sammy lets go, and Jack adjusts his bow tie and glasses)
Jack : …
(Whisper, icy) What a hassle it must be..
Sammy : …
(Normal tone) There’s your answers.
(Jack looks blankly at Sammy, his eyes almost glassy.
Maybe.. he’s looking behind him.)
Jack : Norman…
(Sammy on his stool looks directly at Jack, then sighs disappointedly when he realizes what Jack means.)
(Norman towers over Sammy)
(His hand holds another recorder./red herring- not turned on.)
(Sammy narrows his eyes at him)
Norman : Sammy.
Sammy : What is it now?
Norman : Just wanted to show you something.
Sammy : ..(distrust)
Norman : Just this, and I promise, not gonna bother you again.
Sammy : ..
(Sigh)
(Tight lip) Fine.
Jack : …
I’m guessing it’s not what I should know again?
(Bath of them looks at Jack)
Jack : ..
(Mirthless snort) (Tcheh) Sure, sure! I’ll just go hide out in my sewers, like good Ol’ Jack, and, hah, just hope it doesn’t fill up with ink! (Spit) (backs out slowly, in a rather menaced tone)
Norman : Don’t y-
Sammy : (snap) Make. This. QUICK.
Norman : ..Damnit. Great.
(Allison watches from the entrance. She shakes her head in frustration.)
(Jack walks past her, in a bit of a hurry)
(Allison takes a step forward, but hesitates.)
(She decides to back out, leaving the two alone, and shuts the door.)
(Scene cuts)

(Scene opens again, in the same room.)
Sammy : So.. what.
Norman : ..
(He feels a compulsion to know what Sammy would react)
(Ink noises)
(The shot switches to Sammy on the left of the screen, Norman blurred out in a close up)
Sammy : ..
(The shot does vice versa with Norman)
Norman : (curt, but there’s a mix of ecstasy in his voice) Here-
(Sammy looks at the paper for a moment.)
(He takes it)
(The shot pans on Susie’s report. Everything written in detail.)
(Sammy’s face immediately shifts into a horrified one.)
Sammy : No.
No- no this isn’t-
…
(He reads the paper over and over again)
(It’s official. Bloody official. But his mind keeps denying.)
Sammy : No, no. No, she left. I saw it.
Norman : Didn’t look at the big picture, huh? (His lips curves into a rather unhinged smile)
You really didn’t.. know?
Sammy : WHERE DID YOU GET THIS!?
Norman : (withholds) ..
Sammy : TELL ME, WHERE DID YOU GET THIS!?!
(He grabs Norman impulsively)
Norman : …
Who do you think
(A drop of ink falls to the floor between them, unknown whether it came from Norman, Sammy or where else)
Sammy : …
(He doesn’t know)
(He lets go, then looks at the paper again)
…
(He can’t process things at the moment- )
(Sammy freezes up, he holds the documents a little too tightly)
(He grits his teeth, shaking, a thousand thoughts going through his mind. He grabs his head in frustration.)
(Norman stares at Sammy icily, he softly turns on his heels, his hard breath echoing in the dead silence and soft sobs)
Norman : (whisper) Don’t lose your head, Mister Lawrence.
(Sammy turns to look at Norman, his face filled with anger, fear and terror)
(Scene cuts on him)

Chapter Text

Norman’s log : Curiosity

[Now I’m not lookin’ for trouble. It’s just the nature of us projectionists to seek out the dark places. You see, I’ve learned the ins and outs of this here studio. I know how to avoid being bothered by the likes of this.. company.
“That projectionist”, they always say, “creeping around, he’s just looking for trouble.” Well trouble or not, I sees everything. They don’t even know when I’m watchin’.
Even when I’m right behind ‘em.]

(Norman leans back quietly, his chair creaking. He smirks, half content.)
(He watches down below as Sammy has another banter with Jack, who’s trying to dig into it all again.)
(His face shifts into a small frown.)

(Scene cuts)

Sammy : Stop.
Stop. Asking. Questions.
Jack : Not my fault you’ve been so coy.
Sammy : …
Jack : ..
(Ink noises becomes subtle)
(Sammy takes a deep breath)
(Joey pops his head in)
Joey : Sammy! I need your help!
(Sammy flinches)
Sammy : (quickly) What is it now?
Joey : Come, quick.
(Sammy looks like he’s about to crap his pants)
Joey : …
(His eyebrow scrunches in suspicion)
Something wrong, Sammy?
Sammy : …
Joey : (sigh) Guess I’ll have to handle it myself.
Sammy : (quickly) No, no. I’ll-
I’ll be there.
Just- give me a moment.
Jack : ..
(Sammy can feel Jack staring)
Jack : (exasperated, rather deadpan) What is it now
(Sammy walks out without saying another word)
(Jack is left alone)
(The ink noises prolongs)
(He seems irritated. Goodness, what is going on now?)
(He bites his lip, and heads for his office)
(Norman watches)

(Scene cuts)

(This is the first time Thomas, Sammy and Joey are all in a room together alone)
(Ink Machine Chamber)
(Thomas is not helping. At all. He’s leaning against a worktable, fidgeting with his tools leisurely.)
Joey : Tom!
Thomas : …
Joey : Tom, if you’re not going to be any help, might as well get out.
Sammy : (low, cold) No.
Joey : ?
Sammy : No.
Let him stay.
(Thomas is suspicious of this)
Joey : …
(He doesn’t want to defy Sammy)
(Joey picks up a bucket of ink)
(Suddenly, an ink blob drops to the floor)
(Sammy looks at his trembling hands)
(Joey stares for a moment, bucket still in hand)
Sammy : …
Joey : ..
(Harsh) Sammy.
(Sammy doesn’t flinch. It is hard to see Sammy’s face.)
Joey : We haven’t had such a result in.. weeks.
(Demanding) What’s going on!?
Sammy : …
(Sammy eyes Thomas, who’s still ignoring the commotion. In fact, he seems to be drifting off into a literal daydream.)
Joey : (grumble)
Sammy, meet me in my office later.
(Puts bucket down as he speaks)
Sammy : ..
(Nods lightly)
(Joey leaves the room, gathering a pile of papers as well.)
(Thomas stands alone.)
(He turns around to leave as well.)
(A hand grabs his wrist.)
(Thomas eyes Sammy)
(Sammy seems distraught)
Sammy : Was it you..?
Thomas : What.
Sammy : The reports- the files- (blurting) Norman gave it to me, the one about Susie-
…
Was it you, TOM!?
Thomas : ..
(Icily) I don’t know what you’re talking about.
Sammy : ..
Then who. Was it.
Thomas : ..
I don’t know.
I don’t know, Sammy.
…
I have to go.
(Sammy doesn’t let go.
But after a few moments, does so, but slowly.)
(Thomas looks at him for a moment, then slips into the secret room.)

(A phone drags out in a ring)
Alan : Greetings, Alan Gray speaking.
Thomas : Mister Gray-
Alan : Oh, Tom! How are things over there?
Thomas : …
Had you not gotten my last report?
Alan : Where- (fumbling) Oh! There it is!
(Apologetically) Sorry, Tom, it’s been so busy these days-
Thomas : (strained) I. Don’t. Care.
Alan : …
Thomas, is everything alright over there-
Thomas : (finally I get to scream) NO!!
It’s. Not.
Alan : (sighs) If you’re trying to get me to send more help, I’m afraid the answer is still no.
Thomas : What IS your deal, Alan-
Alan : Mister Gray.
Thomas : (a breath) Mister Gray.
This is my last straw, Mister Gray. Our client keeps interfering into what’s supposed to be MY job, and he doesn’t know a THING about engineering.
Alan : (dismissive) You are welcome to back out any time, Thomas. Atlantic City still has plenty to fix.
Thomas : …
I …can’t.
Alan : And I can’t send more help either. Do you know how busy it is these days!? We can’t waste anymore manpower on another client.
Thomas : (sarcasm) Oh, I’m certain it’s hellish, Mister Gray.
Alan : …
Tom.
Thomas : Don’t. You. DARE “Tom” me.
Alan : (sigh)
(Fumbling as Alan picks out the papers on his desk)
If you back out, we’ll send people to pick up the pieces.
Thomas : I don’t need anyone to pick up my things. I just need people who actually know how to do their job.
Alan : (sigh)
No, Thomas.
Thomas : …
If you don’t, I’m seriously backing out.
Alan : Go ahead.
Thomas : No.
I’m quitting both GENT and Joey Drew Studios.
Alan : …
(Warning tone) Thomas..
Thomas : (snap) Either that, or send me who I need.
Alan : Don’t be immature.
Thomas : If anything, all I’ve been is rational, Alan.
Alan : I told you-
Thomas : I don’t have to call you Mister Gray anymore if you’re not my boss, do I?
Alan : ….
Thomas : (seething)
(Alan eyes Thomas’s last report)
(His eyes suddenly seem to light up)
Alan : ..
Fine.
Thomas : …Fine?
Alan : I’ll send you who you need.
Thomas : (exasperated) Thank you.
Alan : ….
Be careful.
Thomas : I’ve always been.
(Thomas slams the phone down)
(He pants for a moment, then looks away)
(Scene cuts)

(Joey’s office)
Joey : …
(Sammy briskly walks in, but doesn’t sit down.)
Joey : Sit down.
(Oppose to “have a seat”)
(Sammy does so anyways)
Joey : Something’s on your mind.
Sammy : (Heh!) Something’s always on my mind.
Joey : Samuel.
Sammy : (his eyes widen a bit, he snatches the nearby coffee mug Joey had placed per usual and takes a swig.)
(The ink noises becomes subtle)
Joey : We can’t afford another failure!
Sammy : Oh, alright. I know.
Joey : …
Why. Are. You. Slacking.
Sammy : …
You’re a little more irritated than usual..
(Joey’s expression shifts into internal fury, he seems to itch to reach for something, but draws his hand back.)
(He wants to grab the heart.)
Joey : Do you still want this job?
Sammy : (quickly) Do you still want me?
Joey : ..
You know I can get you out. Right now.
Sammy : …
Would you? (Mimicking Norman)
Joey : …
(Sammy slowly stands up. He reaches Susie’s comb out of his pocket and pulls his hair down.)
(He accidentally knocks the mug over in doing so.)
Sammy : (cold) Do you think you, of all people, have the right to complain, Joey?
This studio is built upon all but your work .
(He points Susie’s comb at Joey like it’s his conductor wand)
Joey : ….!
(Joey smiles in amusement, finding Sammy’s statement ridiculous.)
“All but my work”, really, Sammy?
Sammy : (growl, but he also smiles, somewhat unhinged) I’m going to cut that smile right off your face..
Joey : Oh, but isn’t it the same smile you wear as well?
Sammy : (seethes)
(The coffee / ink coffee spreads over the table, seeping into Joey’s desk)
(Suddenly, Joey seems a little frantic, reaching into his desk.)
(Sammy takes this chance to leave the room without another word.)

(Scene cuts)

(Thomas and Allison meets up again, also in the miracle lounge.)
(Allison is stirring a can if bacon soup.)
Allison : .. Want one?
Thomas : ..
(Sigh)
No, they’re sloppy, and they stink.
Fills your stomach with.. god knows what they put in there.
(Allison flips the side of the can over.)
Allison : A pound of premium Canadian bacon, one cup chopped onion, one cup peeled and diced carrots..
Thomas : No, I mean, didn’t- actually wanted you to read it.
(He lets out a small, playful snort)
Allison : Gosh, I think this might be the first time I’ve actually seen you crack somewhat of an actual smile.
Thomas : No, you’re kidding.
(He snorts)
(Then shifts to his usual expression)
Smiles are.. off.
(He eyes a bendy cutout in the corner)
You just…. don’t know what someone’s hiding behind it.
Sorrow, joy, malice or..
Who knows.
Allison : ..
(Heh)
That’s how most of us winded up here, isn’t it?
A smile or two, a well-timed laugh, and then..
This place.
Thomas : ..
Yeah.
I suppose.
Allison : ..
This recipe could use some work, by the way. (Snorts)
A little less of that, maybe a bit more heavy cream..
(Allison suddenly goes into actual pondering mode)
Thomas : ..
You cook, right?
Allison : (a little dry) Yeah. Hobbies.
Thomas : ..
That’s swell.
(Wally walks in)
Wally : (blank) Am I interrupting anything?
Allison : Not at all, Wally.
Wally : ..
Er, yes, Mister Drew needs you in his office!
Thomas : …
(Allison looks at Thomas)
Wally : I meant, he needs Miss Pendle.
Allison : Oh?
Alright.
See you later, Thomas.
(Thomas watches as Allison walks away.)
(He doesn’t feel great in his guts, at all)

(Scene cuts)

(Scene opens)

(Allison creaks the door open)
(Same cam angle from Susie and Sammy)
(Aka, the cam angle that indicates, you are screwed)

Joey : Alice!
Allison : (uncomfortable) Please, call me Allison.
Joey : Sorry, Allison.
(Allison sits down)
Joey : Gosh, I haven’t been checking in lately!
Allison : It’s fine, I’ve been alright.
Joey : Good, good.
Well, after such an abrupt offer, certainly I have to make sure you’re finding this to your liking.
Allison : (dry) Ah, well…
(Joey grabs a few documents)
(He flips it over, and looks at a few newspapers)
Joey : (ponder) Hm.
This is.. strange.
Allison : Is everything alright?
Joey : No, unfortunately. It seems like Alice’s popularity has decreased.
(Allison’s face immediately falls, but she still keeps up a nervous smile.)
Allison : I- I’m sorry.
Joey : No, no! You’re doing fine, the audience can be a little rowdy sometimes, after all. And, besides, we don’t need her overshadowing Bendy, don’t we?
(Promising expression)
Allison : I mean, you could always.. get Susie back.
Joey : Oh, I lost contact, unfortunately. You’re the perfect replacement, I tell you!
Allison : …
(Sigh)
You.. are you sure?
Joey : Positive. Unless you’ve seen her?
(Allison freezes up. She strains her posture.)
(The humming from a few weeks ago…)

Joey : ..
Hm.
I forgot to mention! I need a.. favor, from you.
Allison : W-What?
Joey : Perhaps consider it making up for Alice’s downfall. I just need you to loosen up the pipes in the music sheet closet, just a little bit.
Allison : (sputter) Why?
Joey : Tom needs to check its flow later on. Gauge, pressure, things, you know. Knowing him, he screws them up tight! He’s already busy as is, might as well save him the extra trip to the music department. I keep insisting he use the elevator, but he seems to be in denial about that. (Chuckle)
Allison : ..
Okay.
Joey : Swell!
(He reaches inside his drawer and pulls out the wrench from the ritual)
Here, might be of use, perhaps.
(Allison pov prolly be like ahhh no I need a screwdriver)
Allison : Thank you..
….
(Remark) Odd color.
Joey : (Heh) Ah, well, rust.
(Allison stares at the wrench. It’s weird, though she knows she’ll never use it.)
(Something feels off about all this, but she does care about Thomas.)
(The lights go out)
Joey : Oh goodness..
Allison : A blackout?
Joey : (sigh)
Well, I’m just about to head out for lunch anyways.
Allison : Ah- alright.
(Joey stands up, and looks at Allison with a smile.)
Joey : See you later, Allison.
(He leaves the room, leaving Allison in the darkness.)
(She looks at the employees of the year drawing behind Joey’s chair)
(She stands up to take a closer look)
(Susie’s toon drawing seems off. Halos and horns are over it)
(But her image remains the same. The happy, kindhearted Susie.)
(Her eyes widen, realizing Susie’s importance)
(She sighs, disappointed)

(Scene cuts)

(Scene : music department. A blackout is on.)
(Wally fumbles with a flashlight of his own)
(The light switches back on.)
Wally : Oh-
Dot : Hi Wally!
Wally : Dorothy!
Dot : (sheepish) Please, Dot.
Wally : Dot, alright, do you need something? You’re from Story, right?
Dot : Yeah, yeah I am. I just- need a broom. (Dry laugh) Gosh darn Simon tripped the dustbin again.
Wally : Oh, Hemmings..
Yeah, sure! Closet’s just over there.
(Dot swipes Wally’s keys while his back is turned)
Dot : Thanks a load, Wally, bye!
(Dot hops away)
Wally : (whistles)
(Allison trudges into the music department)
(Wally doesn’t call for Allison)
(Allison speed walks over to the music sheet closet)
(She inserts in her keys. HER KEYS.)
(The door opens.)
(She looks at the single pipe inside the closet.)
(Pulling out a screwdriver instead of the wrench, she loosens the pipe slightly.)
(A small amount of ink leaks out.)
(She tries to tighten it a bit again, but to no avail.)
(Allison slightly panics)
(She pulls out a memo, writing down what she did, and slips it into the shelf)
(She darts her eyes over and sees Wally, carefreely cleaning the dept.)
(Allison hesitates for a moment, then shuts the closet door once again, and approaches Wally. Doesn’t lock the closet door.)
Allison : Wally.
Wally : Oh, hello.
Allison : Do you mind telling Sammy I.. had to loosen the pipes up a bit?
Wally : What pipes?
Allison : The ones inside his closet?
Wally : . . .
Oh, yes. Of course, no problem!
Allison : (sigh) Thanks, Wally.
Wally : Anytime!
(Allison briskly walks inside the studio)
(Wally watches)
(He reaches to his pants to find his keys)
(He doesn’t find them)
Wally : What the..
Oh no.
Oh-
Oh god, where did they go?!?
(Wally frantically speeds down the hallways, and to his janitor closet, completely forgetting about the task.)

(Scene cuts)

(Music dept next morning)
(Norman walks into recording studio)

Norman : …
Grace : (lifeless voice) Hey, Norman.
Norman : Where’s everyone today?
Grace : .. I don’t know.
Norman : ..
(Sigh)
Right.
Grace : ..
The blackout yesterday.
Liked it?
Norman : ..
(Mirthless laugh) I guess.
Saw a new hire.
Grace : Huh.
Who..?
Norman : His name was.. Buddy, I think. Doesn’t really seem to know the ropes around here.
Grace : (haha) He’ll learn.
Norman : (Heh) Drew’s gofer. (Slight spit)
Grace : (warn) Don’t be hard on him.
Norman : (sigh)
Just sayin’
(Few awkward moments. Grace seems exasperated from something.)
(Norman doesn’t know what to do next. Jack’s hiding in his sewers now. Being coy?)
(He speeds up to the projection booth.)
(The door opens then)
(BUDDY. IS. HERE. BABY!!!)
(Scene cuts)

(Music dept hallways)
(Sammy passes by a distraught Wally, who doesn’t greet him like he usually does)
(Sammy eyes Wally suspiciously, but Wally doesn’t flinch, instead, he continues mopping)
Sammy : ….
..
(Sammy doesn’t provoke him, instead heading for the music sheet closet.)
(It’s unlocked)
(POV : you are the closet)
(Sammy reaches for a few music sheets)
(The memo flutters to the floor.)
(Sammy eyes the pipe running through the music sheet closet)
(It starts to shake, but Sammy is still grabbing more stuff.)
(And then.)
(Explosion)

(Scene cuts)

(Opens with Grace)
Grace : (whisper) He’s here.
(The scene cuts to the projection booth suddenly, with Norman staring down below. He squints peculiarly and reaches for his projector to turn it off)
Buddy : (confused) Who?
(Norman turns off the projector)
(Series of steps)
(Door creaks open : you are outside the door, and Buddy opens it for you.)
Grace : ..
He’s coming.
Buddy : Who!? (Turns around)
(Grace remains silent)
(Buddy sighs, then turns around)
(VIOLIN MUSIC GOES INTENSE- OF COURSE IT HAS TO BE THE VIOLIN!!)
(Sammy is standing there, ink covered, head-to-toe)

(Scene cuts)

(Allison is at the entrance of the music dept)
(She saw the whole thing go down)
(Norman’s heavy footsteps approach her)
Norman : (heavy snorts)
Allison : I- I-
What was that!?
Norman : I’m guessing a pipe exploded. Right. In. His. Face.
Allison : (oh god) Oh- oh..
Norman : ….
What’s up, Allison?
Allison : …
Nothing.
Norman : …
If you say so.
(He turns around to walk back to his booth)
Oh, and, there’s a recent hire.
Allison : (oh god finally something else to think about)
(Sigh, relieved)
Is that so?
Norman : Weird kid. You’ll see him around soon.
Allison : ..
(Well, someone just like me!)
Alright.
(The shot pans over to Jack, leaning near the old infirmary wall. He looks at the trail of ink from Sammy.)
(Jack squints in suspicion)

(Scene cuts)

Thomas : ..
You hired.
Joey : Yes, I did, Tom.
Thomas : ..
Why
Joey : ..
(A small, amused smile) Gosh, Tom, don’t worry, I won’t be pulling him into this.
Thomas : …
(Thomas be like : I am planning something you aren’t even gonna expect it.)
(A knock on the door)
(Joey goes to get it)
Ms. Rodriguez : Mister Drew, Mister Gray is here.
With a few employees.
(Joey’s smile falters. He looks at Thomas quickly.)
(Thomas stares back at him.)
(Joey looks concerned and suspicious of Thomas)
Joey : I’ll be there in a moment.
Ms. Rodriguez : Of course.
(He shuts the door.)
Joey : Tom.
Thomas : …
Joey : (strained) What’s Alan doing here
Thomas : ..
(Low) I.. don’t know.
Best go see for yourself, Mister Drew.
Joey : …
(Joey quickly leaves the room.)
(Thomas sighs in relief, and a small smile grows on his face.)

(Scene cuts)

(Ink Demon’s prison)
(INK NOISES)
Ink : …
He’s coming. (Repeating what Grace said)
He’s coming.
(Ink Demon bangs against the wall)
Ink : My child.
(Footsteps)
(Ink demon sharply turns towards it)
(He rushes towards the barricaded door)
(Loud wails and cries)
(The footstep ceases)
Ink : ..
(Ink demon wails again)
Ink : HE WILL COME BACK.
…
(Power scene)
DANIEL.. BUDDY LEWEK

COME, FOLLOW THESE HALLWAYS, BACK TO THE DARKNESS, BE A COMPANION TO THIS FRAIL, HELPLESS CHILD, BE THE ONE TO SAVE HIM FROM THESE WALLS OF ISOLATION. COME, AND HEED MY CALL.

…

(The footsteps becomes loud again)

(The door clicks)
(And opens)

Buddy : Hello?

(The next sequences follow in a quick flash.
The ink demon rushes out of the room, as Ink quickly follows behind as well. The Ink demon tries to “thank” Buddy by giving him a hand, but pushes him to the floor instead. No matter.

HE’S FREE)

Ink :

…
(A SOFT, ECHOING CHUCKLE)
YOU’RE FREE..
..
OH, THOMAS CONNOR..
…
(Alice’s maniacal laughter then)
AH, I CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOU AGAIN!!!!!(ecstasy)
(Scene cuts)

(Scene : ink machine chamber)
(Thomas had fallen asleep in the secret room)
(He bolts awake, sensing something.. very wrong.)
(The Norman wall bulges again)
Norman : (Muffled) Tom, Tom, Tom, Tom, TOM!!!!
Thomas : ….
(The slot bursts open)
Norman : (panting)
Thomas : (irritated) What’re you doing here at this hour!?
(Norman doesn’t look at Thomas, he has his back faced the entire time)
Norman : I should be asking you!? (Panic)
Damnit, Damnit!! That thing- the monster.
(Thomas sharply pulls himself up.)
Thomas : (sharp) What. About. It.
Norman : That boy. That- Buddy. (FUN FACT!!! Norman doesn’t know Buddy’s name!! Ink told him, oh crap suspicious things alert time! Ooooooohhh knowing things you shouldn’t normally know)
..
He let the demon out.
Thomas : (standing up) WHAT THE-!?
Norman : (panting)
Goddamnit- yeah. Yeah he did. He did do that. Oh god.
(Thomas immediately bolts out of the room)
(Norman waits until he’s sure Thomas is gone.)
(He looks down at his hands. His monocle eye flickers a light and slowly fades. His gloves are stained lightly with ink in the pattern of stripes.)
(Implying that Norman has been sweating ink.)
(Shot focuses on the hand in a perspective like, looking up from the hand to the head. Head is far.)
(He gasps for air, not knowing what just happened.)

(Fun fact! These symptoms only started popping now because the ink is free, and so is the ink demon!! Uh oh- )
(Ink Demon brings about the Ink faster, just like in game!)
(Scene cuts)

(Thomas speeds his feet down the infirmary)
(He sees the place empty. No ink. No nothing.
Only broken debris that indicated that someone was indeed there.
And the demon was free.
The physical demon.)
(Thomas freezes in place)
(He falls to the floor then, unable to think. Dread, fear and excitement fills his being, just like Buddy.)
(Hell had just been unleashed upon this studio..)

(Scene cuts)

(Scene opens : it’s morning!)

(Jack is at music dept)
(He’s staring at the ruined music sheet closet)
Jack : ….
(He picks up the broken bolts, like trying to inspect it or something)
(All the ink has dried up)
(He notices the memo, and picks it up)
(The memo is unreadable)
Jack : Huh..
(Jack suddenly feels Sammy behind him)
Jack : … Sammy.
Sammy : (blunt) Where’s the ink
Jack : ..
Which ink
Sammy : ..
Inkwells. The Inkwells.
Jack : (sigh) You know where they are.
Sammy : ..
Right, right.
I know where they are.
Jack : Yeah.
(Awkward moment)
Jack : The wound-
Sammy : It’s closing. And I’m feeling better than ever! (Sarcasm)
Jack : Sammy-
Sammy : ..
(He touches his head. Literally no bandage. Actually, the wound is gone! Huh, wonder what could’ve healed that?)
Sammy : ..
I have to go.
Jack : Yeah. Um. Sure.
…..
..
(Jack shuts the door to the closet)
(He walks away abruptly)
(Allison waits for him to leave the closet to talk to him)
Allison : Checking that?
Jack : Yeah.
Doesn’t look right.
(Allison takes a breath)
Allison : Odd.
Jack : …
Hm. I guess you could say it’s odd.
…
Do you know what happened? (Pressing)
Allison : (rather quickly) No!
Jack : ..
Allison : ….
I-
Sammy : Out! Get out! Just- get out.
(The two look over at Sammy ushering people outside)
Allison : Uh..
(Norman shuffles past them both, completely ignoring them)
(Jack stares at Sammy)
(He pushes through the crowd)
Jack : What’s going on!?
Sammy : (heavy) Wait outside.
Jack : No.
What’s going on with you?
(Murmurs from the crowd)
(The ink noises starts again)
Sammy : (Heh) I told you not to ask questions.
Jack : (snorts) You can’t shut me up.
Sammy : ..(reading the room) (low, in a whisper) You’re liking this, aren’t you?
Jack : (haha) Oh, that doesn’t matter, Sammy.
I just want to know what you’re really up to. Inside that.. sanctuary of yours.
Sammy : Let me ask you this, Jack, do you ask someone questions when they’re going to the loo?
….
No, you don’t.
Jack : Going to the toilet doesn’t disrupt others’ work.
Sammy : …
I know what I’m doing, Jack.
Trust me.
…
(He approaches Jack in a condescending manner, and grabs Jack again)
Do you know what you’re doing?
Jack : (squeak) Finally getting answers.
(He grabs Sammy’s hand, then pushes him away)
Sammy : …
Seems to me you’re just trying to waste time.
….
(Whisper, slightly tremble) Do you like it when all eyes are on you?
Jack : ..
(Sammy turns around and heads into the studio, locking it behind him)
(Jack stands there)
(The ink noises rise)
(He waits for the crowd to disperse)
(Jack pulls out his keys and unlocks the door impulsively)
(Sure enough Sammy’s gone into his sanctuary)
(Jack doesn’t waste a single moment. Screw it, time to get into that damn sanctuary.)
(He pushes the door slightly up, because Sammy forgets to lock it. For.. some reason. Jack doesn’t know the password even exists, so opening the door is just a dumb guess. That turns out to be correct.)

(Sammy is inside, sitting on the floor. He trembles in fear, perhaps? He hastily picks up the inkwell on the floor. He stares for a moment, unsure.
Then just pours it down his throat.)
(Jack’s eyes widen, and he slowly lowers the shutters. He takes a moment to realize what he had just seen.)
(He breathes rapidly, then his eyes narrows down, as if he’s thinking something)

(Scene cuts)

(Administration)
Joey : ….
Norman : Go on, Mister Drew. We don’t have all day.
Joey : (sigh) Norman, I’ve been getting complaints about.. your behavior.
Norman : (snorts) Just now? Really? Then why did no one file a complaint in ‘29?
Joey : (snap) We’re expanding, Norman. Back then is not now. The past isn’t the present!
Norman : What if I want it to be?
Joey : This isn’t about what YOU want.
Norman : And it isn’t about what you want either.
Joey : Lay a little trust in me, Projectionist. I’m the captain of this ship.
Norman : (haha) A wrecked ship, and you threw the anchor.
Joey : ..
Two chances, Norman.
Or. Well.
Norman : .. (sigh)
Well, I ain’t seen anyone file a complaint on Sammy.
Joey : ..
(Cold) What’s with Sammy
(Buddy’s footsteps echo)
Joey : ..!
Norman : ..
There’s your kid.
(Haha) I better go, Joey.
Joey : (turns to stare at Norman. Once again his hand seems to itch for something)
(He sighs)
(A chuckle)
I have better things to do..
Norman : ..
(Tight-lipped) A.. swell meeting.
Joey : (cold) Same to you.
(Joey turns on his heels to leave)
(Norman stares, then walks into the darkness)

(Scene cuts)

(Music dept)
(Glass shatter)
Someone : FLOOOOOOD!!!
Jack : (surprised, there hasn’t been a flood since Susie left) Huh-!?
(Sammy walks out)
Jack : …
(Sammy sighs in exasperation, but the corner of his lip curves into a small smirk)
(Jack watches as Sammy passes by him)
(Sammy stands over the pool of ink once more. He trembles ever so slightly.)
(Suddenly, he goes on his knees, and does something Jack doesn’t see from the back.)
(Sammy stands up and turns around)
(Jack stares in confusion)
(A small droplet of ink seeps from Sammy’s end of the mouth)
(Jack’s eyes widen, and he puts his finger to his end of the mouth as well)
(Sammy acknowledges this)
(He only shakes his head in disappointment, then chuckles dryly)
(Another employee notices, and their face pales)
(Sammy’s eyes widen, and he quickly rushes away)
(Jack sees the whole thing unfolds)
(His lips curves into a weird, sloppy smile)
(The ink noises start rising)
(He turns around, and stares at Sammy, that smile still on his face)
(Sammy doesn’t like that smile. Something’s just wrong with it.)
Sammy : Something wrong?
(Front face Jack)
Jack : (Heh) Is there anything I can help you with?
(Reference to weeks ago)
Sammy : ….
(He feels his head bubble)
(He literally can’t work straight right now even if he wants to)
(Scene cuts to black)
[SING WITH ME]
(The scene flashes again, Jack’s still smiling)
[OF COURSE]

(Scene cuts)

(Music dept : recording studio just finish)
(Jack is sitting on a nearby chair, slightly shaken from the earlier interaction. What the heck was that?)
(Sammy’s looking at his notebook)
Sammy : (hoarse) That was slightly off-key.
Jack : (heheh) I know.
Sammy : ..
That’s unusual. Even for you.
(Jack : shut up shut up shut up right now)
Jack : (hehe) Ah..
Better luck next time.
Sammy : …
(Bites his lips)
Jack : What..?
(He touches his mouth)
Sammy : ..
(Snorts)
Oh..
That.
Jack : .. Yeah.
(The ink noises bubbles loudly)
Sammy : …
You’re gonna ask the question?
Jack : I know the answer.
Sammy : ..
Swell.
(Sammy abruptly stands up, and leaves the room)
(Jack sits there, and composes himself)
(He sees the half-empty ink bottle on the conductor stands)
(He feels drawn to it. Jack grabs it off the stand sharply.)
(He stares into it in wonder.)
(Outside) Wally : Sammy, what’re you doin’!?
(Jack turns sharply towards the entrance. He runs to see what’s going on outside.)
(Sammy is towering over Wally
Sammy : Where’s the ink?
Wally : Well, they’re in your closet alright!
Sammy : …..
Where are the keys
Wally : Your keys?
Sammy : I gave’em to you-
Wally : ..
Oh..
Oh no.
Sammy : (losing it) DID YOU LOSE THEM, AGAIN!?
Wally : Sammy! Calm down! I’ll just get your ink for you!!
(Sammy stops)
(He pants)
Sammy : (panting)
..
…
(He looks blankly towards the closet)
(Jack walks towards him with a smile)
(Again, Sammy doesn’t like that)
Jack : Here you go!
(He hands Sammy the inkwell)
Sammy : …..
(Sammy glares at Jack in a manner of : what the heck are you trying to do)
(Jack being like haha well you want ink here’s your ink)
(Sammy slowly takes it)
Sammy : ..
(Mumble) Thanks.
(Jack smiles, content)
(Wally stares at the both of them)
(He carefully walks away)

(Scene cuts)

(Break room)
(Passerby walks by and mingle. Jack is at the coffee corner.)
(He pours a generous amount into a few mugs)
(He stares at the bubbling drinks for a moment)
(His was light brown, not too heavy, a striking contrast to Sammy’s all black coffee)
(In fact, if he just slipped in some ink, it would be tasty, and Sammy surely wouldn’t mind? Ah, and maybe he could shut up about Jack too, perhaps?)
(Jack pulls out an inkwell from beneath the cupboard. This studio keeps ink everywhere, after all)
(He swirls it a bit with his pencil from his ear)
(Shot focuses on the mug and the inkwell for the next few scenes)
(The ink from the inkwell slowly drips into the mug)
(It swirls into each other)
(Jack stares for a moment, deep breaths)
(He picks up both mugs on a tray and starts making his way out)
(He bumps into Allison along the way, spilling a bit of the coffee on to Allison’s coat)
Jack : Oh god, I’m so sorry! (Still holding on to the mugs)
Allison : (Heh) It’s fine. I have a spare one.
Jack : (he starts to panic, realizing that’s the mug with the ink. IT WON’T COME OFF!!!!)
Allison : ..
Everything alright, Jack?
Jack : Yep! Nothing at all!
(His poker face still sucks at this point.
He quickly speeds away, leaving Allison there)
(She pulls her coat, and sniffs it)
(Her face darkens when she realizes it also smells like ink.)

[SCENE 14 : END]

Chapter Text

(Scene opens)

(Projection booth)
Jack : (pretty brightly) Hey, Norman!
Norman : (waking up) Yeah?
Jack : Knocked out? (Haha) Want a coffee?
(Norman glares at him. He doesn’t trust Jack, but coffee wouldn’t hurt.)
Norman : Sure.
(Jack places down the tray of mugs)
(Norman reaches for Sammy’s mug)
Jack : (grabs hand) Ah-ah! That’s for Sammy. (Cold smile)
(Repeat of Norman’s scene)
Norman : ….
(He squints at the coffee)
(The ink noises in the coffee becomes subtle)
Norman : Ink.
Jack : (freezes, his smile falters) What?
Norman : There’s ink in it.
Jack : (surprised) Oh, no. Gee, Norman, your imagination is wild.
(Norman impulsively grabs the mug)
Norman : What is this
Jack : …
Norman : Why are you putting ink in his mug
Jack : (Heh) What’re you talking about now?
Norman : Don’t act dumb. It’s not hard to tell.
Jack : (press) Or is something up with you..?
Norman : !!?
Jack : (oh crap hold on) I mean-
…
You know what, just take this. (Slams a random mug on to the ledge) Enjoy.
(Norman grabs Jack)
Jack : …
Norman : Unfunny, Jack. Work on your jokes.
Jack : (snorts) Says you.
Norman : Don’t. Put. Ink. In there.
Jack : ..
(Jack picks up the tray)
(He leaves)
(Norman watches as Jack leaves.)
(Something doesn’t feel right. Yeah. Ink. Weird.)

(Scene cuts)

(Sammy’s in his sanctuary. He tips his coffee around a bit, and takes a few sips)
(His expression is of peculiarity)
(But he continues drinking. Because its taste is to his liking. For obvious reasons that it is spiked.)
(The shot pans to his notebook. He seems to be scribbling things Dot and Buddy found in dctl)

(Scene cuts)
(Scene opens)

(Break room)

(Jack’s standing there, inkwell in hand, humming a casual tune to himself whilst brewing coffee)
(Norman’s approaching Jack from behind)
(Jack knows)
Jack : ..
Yes?
Norman : ..
(He impulsively reaches out and snatches the inkwell. Jack pulls back.)
Jack : Excuse me?
Norman : Why
Jack : Why what?
Norman : Why are you doing this
Jack : …
Sammy wants it.
Norman : How’d you know..?
Jack : You’re asking a lot today, Norman.
(Heh) Are you curious?
(Mimicry)
Norman : …
(He pulls Jack)
(Jack budges)
Jack : (Heh) None of your business, Norman.
Norman : (crap crap crap crap) ..
Wh-
(Gah)
Why are you doing this to Sammy?
Jack : (Hah) Why am I doing this to Sammy? Look at you, Norman. You’ve been dead set on him for WEEKS.
Norman : (crap crap) That was for a good cause.
Jack : Really? Are you sure? Because so far all I’ve seen is you trying to solve a conspiracy theory, that seems to lead to nowhere.
Norman : …
Jack : Or maybe it does.
…
And I’m not supposed to know. (Chuckle)
Norman : … (he grits his teeth)
He’s.. he’s getting affected by it.
Jack : (blankly) I don’t see a difference.
Norman : You of all people should be the one to catch on first!
Jack : (irritated) You don’t know ANYTHING about him.
Norman : You’re just gonna let our petty excuse of a boss descend even deeper into madness!? (Applies to both Sammy and Joey)
Jack : (interrupting) NO!? SHUT UP!!!
(Jack pushes Norman)
…
(Murmur under breath) Like we aren’t all MAD.
Norman : (doesn’t hear) Then enough. We don’t need more.. problems.
Jack : (mocking) I’m sorry Norman but if I recall so correctly, it’s “none of my business”.
Norman : Goddamnit-
Jack : In fact, with this whole seeking thing you’re doing, it doesn’t look like you want justice anymore.
Norman : Don’t you dare-
Jack : You just want to see Sammy desperate for once, don’t you?
Norman : … (doesn’t correct him- it was true)
Jack : Whatever .. whatever of that ink you’re speaking of, whatever- spooky things, evil, secret schemes, whatever hogwash it is, it’s- it’s not about that, isn’t it? It’s just about Sammy.
Otherwise you would’ve just gone to Joey.
(Snorts in mockery)
O- Otherwise you could’ve stood up for me when Sammy-
(Heh) You know.
(Heheheh)
Norman : (interrupting) Alright, what did you want me to do!? Grab an axe and hopefully start tearing all those creepy noises into oblivion!?
Jack : Sounds much, much better than relentlessly SNOOPING and committing voyeuristic crimes in the studio!?
Norman : …
There’s no pleasure I get from watching this studio get ridden with crimes.
Jack : And there’s no pleasure I get from watching you constantly blackmail him either.
Norman : Aren’t you doing the same thing to him!?
Jack : He wanted ink, I gave him his ink. Nothing else. Made it a little tastier, too.
Norman : But it’s not about satisfying him, isn’t it? I know what it does. I’ve seen what it does.
Jack : Well then, tell me then. The whole studio’s listening.
Norman : That isn’t the point.
Jack : There you go again, dismissing it like it’s something so secretive.
Norman : JUST LISTEN!! This ink- it’s not ink! It’s-
(Ink noises goes louder and louder)
Making us- me, maybe who else, who knows!? Making us weird.
..
Very weird.
Maybe worse.
Jack : …
(Heh) Well, you finally told me.
Norman : I’m guessing that’s enough to convince you.
Jack : …
No.
Norman : (sputter) What!?
Jack : (raises mug)
Show me then.
I wouldn’t wanna risk dissatisfying Sammy. (Spite)
Norman : No!
Jack : I don’t believe you then.
Norman : Stop.
Jack : Convince me.
Norman : Seriously?
Jack : I am deadly serious.
(Few moments of silence)
(Norman slowly takes the mug)
( POV : It’s just a little. You have to convince him.
….
Why do I need to convince him?
He knows.
..
He’ll just say I’m putting up an act.
..)
(Norman stares at the mug, then at Jack.)
(Suddenly, he lunges forward, tipping the mug right at Jack’s lips)
Jack : MMMRPH!!!
Norman : Why don’t you convince yourself first!?
Jack : (He can’t open his mouth, otherwise a gulp of ink would plunge straight into his throat)
Norman : Get a grip, Jack. Do you think I’m lying? Why, would I, LIE!!!?
(Jack’s eyes widen. He feels his feelings boiling within him.)
(The ink noises are at MAX)
(Screen goes black)
(PROJECTIONIST SCREAMS)
(Loud scuffles)
(Mug shatters)
(Screen cuts back on)
(Jack is standing behind Norman, as if he had just phased through him like ink)
(Norman pants, his plain eye shut and his monocle eye glowing)
(His mouth is agape, panting)
(Jack stares at his hands. They seemed to be melting.)
(The remains of the mug is on the floor. The ink
(A long gasp)
(The two snaps back to normal)
Norman : .. (shocked)
What the hell was that..?
Jack : ….
(A few moments of silence)
Norman : (low) Tom.
(Norman immediately runs off)
(Jack turns around, and stares at the cracked mug)
(He stares at it for a period of time)
(He suddenly feels someone staring at him)
(He looks up, and sees Wally standing there)
Wally : Looks like a mess!
Jack : …
(He wasn’t sure whether Wally meant him or the pile of crap on the floor)
Jack : (haha!) Oh, sorry. (He backs off)
(Wally dumps his mop on the spill)
(The spill moves ever so slightly)
Wally : (groan) Damnit!
Someone tell these liquids they need to stop moving!
(Jack tenses up)
(Wally remembers the heart)
Wally : (sigh) Ah well.
(He mops even more aggressively)
(Jack walks past. Hm, that was.. peculiar..)
(The shot zooms out, revealing Allison just saw the whole thing unfold from start to finish)

(Scene cuts)

(Bang!! Joey’s office door barges open.)

Joey : Oh, Allison! Gosh, you gave me a sc-
Allison : What. Is it
(Rapid steps)
Joey : Woah, what's going on?
Allison : What’s THE INK!?
Joey : …
The ink’s the ink. That’s what it is.
Allison : No. (Blurt) Because I just saw Norman scream like.. like a monster and Jack almost melted into a pile of substance!
(Joey’s eyes widen, but it also seems to sparkle)
Joey : Is that so?
Allison : (oh crap what did I just say)
I mean-
…
I- I-
Joey : There, there Allison. (He says as if he’s patting her back)
Allison : There what.
Joey : …
How about a cup of tea?
Allison : Stop. Enough with your cups of tea, I’m quitting.
Joey : !
Hold on, Allison!
(Allison turns around and starts walking away)
Allison : …
Joey : Just.. hold on! Listen to me!
Allison, I really don’t think anywhere else would be paying big roles right now.
Are you sure this is a good decision?
Allison : …
(Allison turns around, her eyes widening in fury)
Joey : I- In fact, I’ll let you know what “the ink” is, if you’d like to know!
(Joey is slightly panicking internally)
Allison : ..
What is it..
Joey : …
(The clock ticks in the background, as if telling Joey : tick tock, answer or be screwed!)
Joey : ….
Tom.
Tom will explain everything to you.
Allison : (retort) Don’t drag him into this.
Joey : Oh, but you must, Allison.
For he has the answers.
(Low, suddenly turns menacing, but a smile still remains on his face)
Allison : …
Joey : Are you curious?
Alice?
Allison : ….
(She seems to be in absolute fury)
Joey : …
Tom’s probably at his usual spot.
He’ll tell you everything.
(Allison keeps looking at Joey. She’s just so irritated right now she can’t think straight. Sammy, Jack and Norman are making this complicated.)
Allison : ..

(Scene cuts)

(Sammy is in the recording studio. Alone)
(He drags his finger along the wall of his sanctuary.)
(After he finishes, he breathes out.)
(Sammy backs out in an almost stagger-like manner, and falls to the floor.)
(He bites his lip, a smile wavering on his face.)
Sammy : (Hah) Joey-
ARGH!!! (He bends down)
..(seethes)
Jack-
…
..
(He snorts)
(He slowly pulls himself out, and staggers out of the sanctuary)
(Leaves inky footprints behind ominously)

(Scene cuts)

(BOOM DOOR OPENS HERE’S NORMAN)

(Norman frantically looks around the room)
(Thomas is standing in the corner, blueprint in hand, and a little brighter positioned)
(He notices Norman, looking like he just went to hell and back)
Norman : (growl) Tom.
Thomas : Norman, Norman breathe
Norman : NO, Don’t. You. DARE. TELL ME TO CALM DOWN!
(Thomas backs as Norman quickly pushes his steps)
Thomas : What, what- what is it what happened WHAT DID YOU SEE!?
Norman : SEE!? SEE, OH, THOMAS I DOUBT YOU’RE GONNA LIKE WHAT YOU’RE GOING TO HEAR.
Thomas : THE HELL DO YOU WANT!?
Norman : YOU KNOW WHAT I WANT!! Do you want to know, do you want to know what I’ve seen- what I’ve gathered!?
Thomas : Go on then! I’m all ears!
Norman : All ears like you didn’t know that your LITTLE POISON IS INSIDE US!!!?!
Thomas : Excuse me, WHAT!?
Norman : Don’t you “WHAT” me, DON’T YOU EVEN-
Thomas : I DON’T KNOW WHAT YOU’RE TALKING ABOUT!!
Norman : Of course you don’t, of course, LIKE YOU DIDN’T KILL SUSIE!
Thomas : THAT WASN’T MY FAULT!
Norman : But that machine is yours isn’t it? You made that damn thing, you made that damned ink. FOR GOODNESS’ SAKE, I JUST. WITNESSED. JACK. MELTING INTO A GOOP LIKE HE’S MADE OF INK.
(Thomas hits a barrel) : He WHAT!?
Norman : And that’s not it, Mister Connor, if you’d like to hear-
Thomas : Enough, ENOUGH!! JUST STOP PUSHING-
(Thomas eyes the cloth covering the mutation circle in panic)
Norman : I’m not UNTIL YOU SWEAR TO ME THAT YOU’VE HAD ENOUGH OF THIS INK BUSINAAAAA- (projectionist screams)
(Norman’s monocled eye suddenly lights up, he grabs Thomas by his shoulders as Thomas retaliates harshly. Thomas’s feet suddenly slip onto the circle, causing the ink inside Thomas to be triggered. He screams in fear as one of his hand turns into Boris’ and tears his flippin glove apart, the blow lands onto Norman and he gets thrown to the floor, knocked out)
(Thomas drops to the floor in shock)
(Thomas pants harshly)
(He looks at his hand, opening and closing it. Like making sure it’s still working.. as a hand.)
(He gasps for air.)
(Thomas chokes for a moment, and spits out ink)
(He looks up at a knocked out Norman)
(He takes a sharp breath, and gathers himself)
(Thomas POV : What..?)
(INK : AHAHA!!!!
THE INK DEMON IS FREE, THOMAS!!)
(The voice cuts through his mind)
Thomas : (staggering) ARGH!!
…
..
Oh god…
(The secret door suddenly slowly creaks open)
(Thomas turns around sharply)
(Allison is standing there, with a pale face)
(Thomas freezes, no covering up, no backing out, this is what it is.)
Allison : T-Thomas..
Thomas : (quickly) How did you get in there!?
Allison : ..
(Quiet whisper)
The first day.
(Flashback)
(Thomas’s eyes widen)
Thomas : …
Y- you saw-
Allison : All of it.
Thomas : … (he starts panicking again)
Allison : …
Tom.
(Thomas flinches)
What’s “the ink”?
Thomas : I- I-
(The door opens, and Wally stands there, heart of the machine in hand)
Wally : Hey, Tom- found this weird thing! I was gunna show you but-
(The room looks to be in chaos)
Wally : …..
(Sigh)
I’m outta here, am I?
(That was enough. Thomas collapses to the floor, in sheer terror. Allison sits down next to him, giving him a comforting hug.)
(Thomas doesn’t return it, but a tear drips from the side of his face)
(It was golden)
(The screen cuts to black, but the tear remains ever so bright in the darkness)

(Scene cuts)

(Music dept)
(The atmosphere has changed drastically from earlier on)
(Sammy’s strumming on his banjo, to take his mind off things.)
(One of the string snaps)
(He stares)

Musician : Sammy, Mister Drew needs you in his office!
(Sammy bolts up way too quickly)
Musician : Oh, and Jack too-
(Sammy pushes past the musician, and power walks to Joey’s office immediately)
(Jack follows behind slowly)
(Sammy doesn’t acknowledge Jack following behind)
(Jack smiles in a strange manner)
(Scene cuts)

(Administration, not inside Joey’s office)
(Joey’s with Ms.Rodriguez. He’s opening a letter himself. He notices Sammy approaching, and dismisses Ms.Rodriguez)
(A weak smile)

Joey : (strained) Hello, Sammy.
Sammy : …
(Tight-lipped) Hello.
What is it now
Joey : ….
Where’s Jack?
(Sammy seems to tense up)
Jack : I’m here!
Joey : (brightens up) Fantastic!
A big name contacted me, they want you two for their next show!
(Jack and Sammy look like they’re about to actually crap their pants. They haven’t hopped out and accepted an outside show in years.)
Sammy : (low) Where..?
Joey : Just over at Cort Theatre.
Jack : Ah, that’s just nearby!
Sammy : …
Jack : (absolute shameless poker face) C’mon, Sammy, it’s been years since we’ve performed on stage together!
(Jack seems to have some ulterior motive)
Sammy : …
Joey : Are you still a little rusty?
(Sammy recalls the popped banjo string)
(His eyes widen, and he trembles slightly)
Joey : …
(He looks expectantly at Sammy)
Sammy : ..
S- Sure.
Joey : (beams, but a dark cloud of tension seems to look over all of them)
Jack : Swell!
Sammy : …
(His lips quiver, but he shuts up. He does not want to be on stage with Jack. Not right now.)
Jack : ….
(whisper) It’ll be just like the good Ol’ days, Sammy.
(Both Joey and Sammy flinch at the word)
(Jack only smiles back)

(Scene cuts)

(Scene opens)

(The scene shows a silhouette shadow play of Alice pacing around a seemingly unused technical room)
(She stands still, and curls over, as if she had eaten something really bad)
(A loud screech)
(Panting)
(Alice’s straight hair bounces into Susie’s curls and back)
(She recoils, and collects herself)

(Scene cuts)

(Scene opens)

(Thomas is inside the ink machine chamber. He’s sitting on the worktable)
Thomas : …
(He takes a sharp breath)
(A small sniffle, almost reminiscent of Ink Demon’s cries)
(The door opens)
Allison : …
Thomas : You’re not leaving?
Allison : No.
..
I just-
…
Can’t leave you here.
Thomas : ….
Why
Allison : Hm?
Thomas : Why. Why are you siding with me, why are you still here, knowing what this thing is. Knowing how mad this place is.
…
It just-
…
Doesn’t make sense.
Allison : ….
(Allison sighs, and walks over to Thomas)
…
I don’t really.. understand the reason either (Heh)

But it’s there.
And..
Besides..
Such a thing.

…
Maybe it can do good.
Perhaps.
I-
(Heh)
(Thomas still doesn’t meet her eyes)
(He looks down at his hands, one naked and no glove)
Allison : ..
Wanna get a new one?
Thomas : (sigh) It’s fine.
I’ll just.. ask Murray if he has a spare.
Allison : Murray?
Thomas : ..
(Heh) I’ve gotta take you to Atlantic City one day, do I?
..
Meet the crew.
Allison : Oh! Well, I’ve heard there’s really nice beaches over there.
(Heh) It would be fun.
Thomas : Yeah… (drawn out)
…
Beaches and.. Ferris wheels.
Allison : (low) That sounds really lovely.
Thomas : (Heh) It is.
Allison : ..
…
Thomas : ..
(Thomas slips off the table, and heads towards the buckets of ink. He starts dumping a LOT of them on to the ritual circle)
Allison : What are you doing!?
Thomas : …
This thing doesn’t need to see the light of day again.
(The ink on the floor bubbles then, like saying something)
(Thomas wonders if he made the right decision)

(Scene cuts)

(Jack HAS ANOTHER TRAY OF MUGS!!! This won’t be disastrous at all, haha!!…)

(Jack walks down the hall)

(He stops)
(Norman is spying from behind a wall)

Jack : ..
(Bitterly) Norman.
(Sounds of shoving and pushing around)
Jack : (sigh) If you’re quite keen on avoiding attention, I can certainly give you some tips.
(More footsteps)
Jack : ..
(Jack knows Norman is still there)
(The screens splits, showing both Norman and Jack behind walls)
Jack : ..
(Jack looks at the wall)
(He sighs)
(He starts walking away)
Norman : Aren’t you scared?
(Jack pauses)
Norman : From- the..
Jack : ….
..
…
I- suppose.
Norman : ….
How did it.. how did it happen to us?
Jack : ..
I don’t know.
……
..
You sneak around a lot.
..
I thought you’d know.
(Norman knows about Sammy’s ink drinking. It was pretty easy to catch on.)
Norman : ….
Jack : ..
Why.. do you keep them to yourself..?
Norman : (Hah) (snappish) Probably the same reason you hide your reasons.
Jack : (hurt, strained) Not the same.
Norman : I know.
Jack : You don’t know.
..
Deep down, is it funny?
…
Is it funny, Norman?
(Heheh)
You should work on your jokes.
(Jack walks away, bitter from his encounter with Norman)
(Scene cuts)

(Scene opens)

(Sanctuary)
(SAMMY’S LOG)
(He appears from the shadows to rain his sweet blessings upon me. The figure of ink that shines in the darkness. I see you, my savior. I pray you hear me. Those old songs, yes, I still sing them. For I know you are coming to save me. And I will be swept into your final loving embrace. But, love requires sacrifice. Can I get an amen?)

(After this log, Sammy weakly flops to the floor, as if doing that just knocked the ego out of him. He felt nourished, but at the same time.. wrong)

(Knocking)

(The only person who would knock is Jack)
Sammy : ……
Patience, sh- Jack.
(He bites his lip)

(He pulls himself up, and opens the sanctuary shutter)
(Jack is standing there, his violin in hand)

Jack : (tight-lipped) How about a rehearsal or two? Just get those memories jogging again.
Sammy : ….
Sure.
(Jack flinches a moment, and watches as Sammy strolls over to the piano)
Sammy : How many hours has it been?
Jack : You were in there for about three hours.
Had to take over.
Sammy : …..
Great.
…
(Sigh)
(Sammy starts playing “Willow Weep For Me” by Ann Ronell quietly)
(Suddenly the track begins to go off. It’s of a lower octave than normal.)
(Sammy seems deadly hyper-focused)

Jack : ….
Sammy?
Sammy : ..
(He gasps for air)
(His fingers are trembling)
Jack : ….
(Jack eyes Sammy in peculiarity)
That’s an interesting improvisation.
Sammy : …
(He bites his lip)
He-
(He shuts his mouth like a guppy breathing for air)
(Strained, bitter) Thanks.
(Musical scene)
(The two continue playing in the silence of the recording studio during lunch break. They face back to back, not meeting each other’s eyes, and for a moment flashes a scene of the two of them as children, playing, but facing each other.)

(Scene cuts)

(Allison is outside the recording studio)
(She takes a sharp breath, listening to the music inside)
(A scuffle then)
(Muffled voices)
Jack : Sammy, Sammy-
Sammy : Please, please just-
(Allison backs away a bit, and the door bursts open)
Jack : Oh-
Allison : Ah! Sorry-
Jack : It’s- it’s fine
(Jack takes off his glasses to wipe them)
(Jack sighs)
(Then a small smirk grows on his face)
Allison : ..
What’s so funny?
(Jack puts his glasses back on)
Jack : (sigh) Creative stenches do help.
Who knew?
(He pinches his nose)
Allison : I- I’m not sure I follow.
Jack : Mm. Oh, well.
Allison : …
Good luck on your performance tomorrow.
Jack : Oh- Oh thanks!
Allison : (Heh) Beware of tough crowds!
Jack : …
(Snorts)
(Bittersweet) Nothing me and him can’t get through!

(Scene cuts)

(On stage)
(Musical scene)
(Sammy and Jack are performing)
(Sammy starts improvising off key and Jack tries to follow with his violin, but decides to screw it and plays what he thinks is best)
(They finish)
(The crowd cheers)
(They bow)

(Curtain draws close)
Jack : (smiles again) That was-
(Sammy slams an ugly note on to the grand piano)
(Jack flinches)
(Sammy bolts up)
Sammy : Why
Jack : Why what
Sammy : You were playing off.
Jack : (Heh) Well, you were going haywire, I wanted to help.
Sammy : Not.
Not. Right. Now.
Not. Ever. Again.
Jack : ..
Why?
Sammy : …
(He can’t say because the ink is compelling him to)
(Half-fibs) I thought you were a competent one.
(Slams grand piano lid shut)
Jack : ..
(Snaps) Oh. So that’s what that is.
(Heh) I’m not competent enough? What do you want then? I’ll give you everything.
Sammy : (blurt) Everything? Swell, then be of actual, practical, use. (He stresses each word)
(Jack freezes)
(Sammy stands still, then something inside of him seems to well up, causing him to cough)
Jack : You look unwell.
(snorts)
(Denial) Surely, surely you don’t mean that!
Sammy : Ask yourself, Jack.
That first day we met-
Jack : (snaps) SHUT UP!!!
Sammy : -(cont’d) I saw it in your eyes, that longing, point-blank desire for fame. I knew it was growing, and that you’d never think ahead of beyond what it was. Fame. The limelight.
..
You don’t know..
(Sammy : FK YOU, I’M OUT HERE HOLDING UP THE PRESSURE OF EXPECTATIONS)
(WELL INADVERTENTLY SHOVED JACK ALONG THE WAY)
Jack : (Chokes)
…
So why..
Why were you holding back..
Sammy : …
Jack : …
Was it pity?
Sammy : Somewhat-
Jack : Shut. UP.
Maybe.
(Seethes)
Maybe, Mister Lawrence, I just wanted to know.
Maybe, I looked up to you.
(Heh)
Who knows, Sammy? WHO KNOWS!?
Sammy : Are you jealous?
(The stage falls quiet)
Jack : (quiet) Yeah.
Yeah I am.
Sammy : …
(He’s just in a crap mood as much as Jack is right now)
(He snorts)
Jealous, Jack? What do I have for you to be jealous of?
(Jack takes a step forward, in an almost dancing manner)
Jack : (his lips curves into a sarcastic smile)
Everything.
Oh, it’s always about Sammy.
Mhm, I’m just- always gonna be- Sammy’s lyricist.
Sammy : (condescension) Then why did you choose to hide away in the sewers..
(He backs off, his steps matching Jack as well)
Jack : (strained) Be- because-
Sammy : …
We’re all waiting, little sheep.
(As if he’s talking to an audience)
Jack : Because of YOU, ALRIGHT!? B- because I knew.
Because I gave up then. I’ll always be in your shadow, alright, maybe- maybe that’s it! Might as well make myself comfortable but I CAN’T. I just GODDAMN CAN’T!!
Sammy : …
(Jack stops taking steps, and Sammy stops as well)
Jack : I- I can’t take this role I play.
Sammy : We all have to make sacrifices, don’t we?
(Weak, somewhat bitter) How about you make yours as well.
Jack : With your current condition, (snorts) I don’t advise.
Sammy : …
(Long pause)
(The way Jack says it.
His intuition tells him it isn’t right.)
(Clicks)
The coffees. Those coffees.
It was you.
(Jack takes a sharp breath)
Sammy : (pants) What the hell!?
It was you, wasn’t it!?
Jack : (Heh) I was just trying to help. You wouldn’t have to go stealing from Tom again.
Sammy : (spits out ink immediately) (his lip quivers into an awkward smile)
R- really!?
Jack : I told you, I care.
Sammy : (shit, oh shit) (he doesn’t know what to say anymore)
Jack : I admired you, Sammy.
I actually really do.
And still do.
…
(His face turns solemn)
Sammy : …
(Sigh)
Jack-
(Suddenly, an inkwell is shoved into his mouth, cramming all its content down his throat. He wants to say he enjoys it, but Jack is looking-
Kinda like him when he’s crapping up Norman, ngl)
Sammy : MMMMMRRPPPH!!!!!! (JACK!!!!!!!)
Jack : I’m incompetent, Sammy!? All I’ve ever strived for is fame!?
Maybe, maybe that’s true. Maybe you’re right.
(Haha)
Why am I convincing myself like this!?
(The inkwell plops out for a moment, and Sammy takes a breath, but ends up gulping down more ink)
(Shoves back in)
Jack : Goddamnit, Sammy. All that I ever did, all I ever hid, all I’m willing to follow you around like an obedient little sheep, I did it for you. Perhaps I’d understand you better. Perhaps I’d know you better! (Sammy grabs Jack’s arm, but something is pushing Jack past his strength right now) Perhaps I’d know why you’ve always been so coy about talking about “fame” and “talent” and “attention”.
(Screams, cry out) GODDAMNIT, I WANT TO BE YOU!!!
(Sammy grabs Jack up, in the same motion he did to Henry in Chapter 5, grabbing by the neck, then throws him to the ground)
(Jack falls to the floor, the inkwell shattering behind him, but barely a single droplet fell out, because the entire thing is in Sammy’s mouth!)
(Sammy gasps for air, and starts gulping the ink down. Damnit it’s pretty much satiating him right now, but in some way that he feels somewhat compelled to reject also.)
(Jack makes some sharp, convulsing motions, and pull himself off the stage, slipping out of Sammy’s towering figure)
(Sammy tries to cover his dripping mouth, but it’s not working)
(Jack pants, in the heat of the moment, he didn’t really know what he just did either)
(He suddenly smiles nervously)
Jack : (Heh) We- we’d understand each other better like this, perhaps.
Maybe- maybe we could- be ..
(Haha)
(Then recoils into an expression of fury) Am I ever sure!?
Can I even trust you right now!? Knowing-
..
(POV) Can I even trust me?
(He quivers)
(Jack’s not sure what to do)
(Sammy stares at him, his bloodshot eyes red with anger)
(He takes a step forward)
(Jack takes another step behind)
(And Sammy tries to grab Jack)
(Jack suddenly bolts off stage, small tears in his eyes. His smile still remains.)
(The tears drip into ink.)
(Sammy tries to take another step. But he stumbles.)
(He gasps for air.)
(He seems to be smiling.)
(The ink in his mouth suddenly starts crawling out)
(The wound in his brain also starts to have ink crawling out)
(Sammy’s eyes widen in horror)
(His eyes darts up quickly. Secret passages, huh?)
(The one Buddy and Joey uses)
(Not only Norman knows them..)

(Scene cuts)

(I just realized how ironic this is. Sammy would eventually spend his time being obedient to someone who’d never even acknowledge him. Oh goodness.)

(Ink Machine Chamber)
(It’s night, and everyone had gone home)
(Including Joey)
(He staggers out from the secret room, falling flat to the floor)
(He tries to crawl out)
(Sammy’s eyes desperately darts around the room, trying to find someone)
(No one’s there)

(He hears a soft growl then)
(Sammy sharply looks up. It’s familiar)
(The Ink Demon is perched atop the ink machine, though casually looking at him, not attacking him. He tilts his head like a curious dog.)
(Hallucination)
(Sammy’s eye widen)
(The massive wave of ink noises washes over, and the background fades to black around him. A hallucination starts.)
(Joey replaces the ink demon.)
(Sammy’s still lying on the floor.)
(He tries to pull himself up, but to no avail.)
(He keeps panting, low on breath.)

Sammy : (he gasps)
I- I I TRUSTED YOU!! I GAVE YOU EVERYTHING!!!!!
(The image of Joey only stares back.)
(Sammy grits his teeth)
Sammy : And you left me to ROT!!!! WHY!!!???
(Joey remains silent)
Sammy : …
WHY!!!!???
(He lunges forward, grabbing Joey)
(But it isn’t Joey)
(He looks up)
(IT’S HENRY!!???).
(The ink / Henry hallucination chuckles in amusement)
Sammy : (screaming) WHY!?
(He screams in agony)
(The figure chops back to Joey once more)
Joey : ….
…
Do you understand him?
Sammy : (seethe)
(He gasps and looks up)
Joey : Do you need to please him? Please a man?
Who wouldn’t mind discarding you like all the others?
Sammy : ARGH!!!!
Joey : Do you feel free, Sammy? All your dull burdens are on Joey, aren’t they?
Take them out, discard all those useless sheeps. Make your sacrifice.
Sammy : SHUT. UP!!!!l
Joey : Worry not, my little sheep.
For the Ink Demon will accept you into his final, loving embrace.
(Joey isn’t looking like Joey now)
(Joey’s laugh) He will set you free.
He will set you free.
…..
(The shot pans to Sammy, muttering something under his breath)
Rest your head, Sammy.
It’s time for bed.

..
In the morning, you may wake.
Or in the morning, you’ll be dead.
Sammy : …
(The background fades to silhouette of Sammy on the wall)
(The ink consumes Sammy)
(Sammy slowly pushes himself up)
(Shadow play)
(He stares at himself)
(INTENSE MUSIC)
(The scene cuts)

[SCENE 15 : END]

Chapter Text

(Break room)
(Commotion around)

(Buddy slips through the crowd to grab a candy from the snack bar)
(He stares at the candy for a moment, getting lost in his thoughts again)

Toby Caldwell : Yeah, didn’t see him either.
(Buddy jerks his head towards the commotion)
Buddy : What?
Toby : Oh- er- ‘bout the Sammy situation. He didn’t come in for his paycheck.
(He sighs)
Mister Cohen finds it weird.
Buddy : I-
(Joey storms into the room)
(Buddy flinches, but the others doesn’t)
(Joey sees the commotion, and walks over)
(He asks something someone on the outer most ring of the circle (Jacob), they talk for a moment, but Joey only leaves with a mutter and a disappointed expression)
Buddy : …..
Toby : What was that?
Jacob : He asked about Sammy.
Toby : Yikes. Big deal.
Jacob : I suppose. Kind of off, honestly.
(Buddy seems to pale, he shifts uncomfortably)
(He squints his eyes unintentionally, like trying to push down this urge to blurt)
(He takes a deep breath, and walks away)
(Scene cuts)

(Scene : sewers)
(He’s writing lyrics, but he’s twirling his pencil a lot more aggressively than usual)
(Jack’s trying to hold it in)

Wally : Jack!
Jack : AH!! (He’s back to jumpy again)
(Jack topples over his chair)
Wally : Oh, god. Sorry!
Y’know, I just wanted to check up on you! Sammy, taking days off work for the first time in history! How are you taking it?
Jack : (pants) …
(Haha) Well, he deserves a rest!
Wally : Eh, I s’pose.
Mind if I check on a few things in-
Jack : (quickly) No, of course not.
Wally : Swell! (Smiles)
(Wally half skips half walks away)
Jack : …
(Jack takes a deep breath.
He starts to pencil down the lyrics again.
He’s suddenly hyperfixating on it, to distract himself.)

(Scene cuts)

(Projection booth)

(Jack storms up to the projection booth. Sure enough, Norman’s there. Wide-eye, a hint of panic slipping across his face.)
Norman : .. Jack.
Jack : ..
Norman : It was you, wasn’t it.
Jack : It. Wasn’t. Just. Me.
(Door shuts)
Norman : (he doesn’t want to admit that he also played the part)
..
Did you not think this through!?
(Same wording as Sammy)
Jack : (blurt) I DIDN’T, ALRIGHT!?
BECAUSE- BECAUSE I DIDN’T EVEN THINK!!
Norman : What. Happened.
Jack : ….
..
I- I- …
(An ink tear forms in Jack’s eyes)
(Norman wants to scream right now, but he’s afraid he’ll trigger that weird thing again. His reputation is already tarnished enough as is.)
Norman : (breaths) Fine.
I know, not the time to point fingers.
…
Listen..
..
What do you want?
Jack : (blurt) I don’t know, Norman.
I can’t tell, can I?
Norman : ..
What.. do you feel like.. yo- we should do
Right now.
(Jack takes a breath, he slumps onto the metal trunk.)
Norman : …
(Deep breath)
Okay.
How ‘bout-
We just- talk.
Jack : ….
Norman : ..
Both of us did things.
And-
Neither understand the reason.
(Jack looks over slowly)
Norman : ..
….
I wanted- I wanted the ink. Gone.
Jack : ..
Go on.
Norman : (sigh) I wanted the old studio back. Just.. wanted this.. “place” to be “normal”.
…
But-
When you mentioned Sammy-
I just-
Didn’t know anymore.
(Narrowly avoiding dumping Sammy’s involvement to not make the relevation shock Jack)
…
You?
Jack : (snorts) I- I was just-
Envious, I suppose.
(He leans back, taking off his hat)
A- And tired.
Sick.
Of being left out, looked over. Stomped on.
“Pitied.”
..
Norman : ….
Mhm.
….
So.. we’re just.. lost.
Jack : …
(He doesn’t want to admit he knows exactly what he wants) Not.. all of us.
(Jack pulls his legs up, and buried his head into them, allowing his hat to drop to the floor.)
(Neither are in the mood to do anything.)
(Besides, Sammy isn’t here, what are they gonna do?)
(The door knocks)
(No one answers. An expression of paranoia washes over both of them.)
(The door keeps knocking)
Jack : (jerking his head up) Who!?
(Muffled)
Thomas : Thomas.
Connor.
(Yep, that’s even worse)
(Jack eyes Norman)
(Norman eyes Jack)
(Jack takes a deep breath, then stands up, and opens the door)
(Thomas is there)
Thomas : Jack.
(Jack flinches)
Thomas : A moment?
Jack : …
Sure.
(He puts his hat back on)
(Jack follows Thomas)
(Norman watches for a moment, then follows down the stairs)
(If he was gonna eavesdrop, this will be the last time.)
(He stands around the corner)
(Convo goes to Jack and Tom)
Thomas : (sigh)
So, we are gonna be filling your sewers.
Jack : That means-
Thomas : You need to move out.
Have you had any backup offices besides that one?
Jack : ..
I don’t.
Thomas : (mumbles)
Great.
..
Jack : ..
You’re.. building those connecting tunnels to GENT, right?
(BATDR ref)
Thomas : How do you-
Jack : D- doesn’t matter.
I’ll just- move there.
(Heh) I have to admit the stench is starting to help!
Thomas : That’s one hell of a trip from here.
Jack : It’s fine! Besides, I could really use the exercise! (Haha)
Thomas : …
(He glares down at Jack. Thomas could tell Jack is panicking.)
Is it about Sammy?
Jack : (flinches)
….
(Norman walks out)
Norman : So, that’s your game?
Jack : !
Norman : (spit, anger rising, but trying his best to control) Just- just hide away, like a coward.
Jack : Norman you-
Norman : (chuckles) What a choice you’ve made..
Jack : …
(Thomas stares bitterly at Norman)
Norman : ….
..
(Sigh)
Well, those sewers were pretty much run-down anyways.
Guess there is a reason.
(He glares at Jack)
(Jack looks away, adjusting his glasses)
(Thomas doesn’t like the rising tension.)
(He balls his fists, like trying to keep them from punching either Jack or Norman right now.)
Thomas : (sigh)
You know the way?
Jack : No..
Thomas : ..
Come.
(He turns around, and the two power walks out of the music department, leaving Norman alone.)
(Norman bites his lips, and his monocle eye shelters a tear from falling out.)

(Scene cuts)

[ink machine chamber]
Joey : ….
(Thomas shuts the door behind him)
Thomas : .. (an expression of irritation)
Joey : (quickly) You’re fired.
(Thomas halts in his steps)
Thomas : (quiet) What?
Joey : You’re FIRED, TOM!
Thomas : (he doesn’t know whether to be happy or sad bc this studio is a damn hellhole) (quiver) Why?
Joey : You used my machine to create THIS MESS, that I CAN’T WASTE ANY. TIME. ON!!
Thomas : YOUR machine!? (Snorts) Joey-
Joey : The press is on us, everyone wants to know, employees are fleeing the studio, Sammy is missing, it’s- it’s all going to hell.
…..
(haha) It was a mistake hiring you.
(Thomas is about to SNAP)
Thomas : (snaps) Mistake!? A mistake, Joey!? (Heh) Well, good to know we BOTH AGREE ON SOMETHING!
Joey : (point) Leave. Get out. You’ve caused me enough trouble.
Thomas : (Heh) Sure!
Joey : And I’m taking the patent. I can’t let you mess with my machine anymore.
Thomas : (sputters) WHAT!?
Joey : (harsh) All you’ve done since this machine came to be is mess things up!!
Thomas : (haha) Really, Joey, REALLY!? So, what, Sammy’s gone, and you’re making a fuss. I messed things up, sure, maybe I did, but I assure you NO ONE, CAN OPERATE THIS MAC-
Joey : Get out.
Thomas : ..
Pardon?
Joey : Get out, TOMMY!! I’ll fix this mess you made, maybe you should be a little GRATEFUL for that!? You can leave, and never. come. back.
Thomas : (seethe) …
….
..
(Sarcasm, tight lip) Thanks!
Joey : …
Thomas : …
…
..
Get the job done.
(Door slams shut)
(Joey doesn’t move. He’s angry. Mostly he fired Thomas because Sammy’s gone, and he doesn’t trust Thomas to continue the experiments.)
(He glared down at the ink footprints on the floor.)
(He seems to be deep in thought)
(They look vaguely like Sammy’s shoes)

(Scene zooms on a footprint)

(Just outside the room)
(Allison heard the whole thing. Thomas’s surprised Allison manages to find him again.)
Thomas : Ally..
Allison : What. The. Hell. Was. That.
Thomas : Listen, Ally-
Allison : That was YOUR MACHINE!!
Thomas : (….)
(Sigh)
He’s- he’s-
Allison : (slightly on the verge of getting possessed by the machine rn) Tom, we gotta get it back.
Thomas : I- I don’t-
Allison : He doesn’t have anything hanging over you, does he!?
Thomas : …
Allison : …
Does he?
Thomas : …
(Quiet, whisper) Yeah. He does.
Allison : What is it?
Thomas : …
Precisely what he just took from me.
Allison : ….
Thomas : And I don’t know what he’s gonna do with it.
..
…
I want it back, Ally, I really do.
Allison : Then let’s get it back.
Thomas : But what if-
Allison : We can’t worry about “what-ifs” right now!!
….
Publicity.
Thomas : What?
Allison : He’s having that.. grand, fancy party of his, isn’t he?
Crash it, get inside, someone’s gotta be watching.
..
Get the patent back.
Thomas : …
That’s-
Allison : Do you want it back?
Thomas : …
I do.
(Allison grabs Thomas)
Allison : Don’t lose hope, Mister Connor.
We can do this.
Thomas : …
..
…..
I- I suppose..
..
It’s worth a shot.
(Allison smiles, and pulls him away)

(Scene cuts)

(Buddy is eating lunch. He seems uneasy. Like his gut- was telling him something)
(Dot doesn’t look up from her food)
Dot : It’s the machine.
Buddy : What about it?
Dot : Something’s not working right. I heard him yelling at Tom.
Buddy : He’s yelling at everyone.
Dot : Yes. But trust me. We want answers? We need to find that machine.
(Buddy stares at her, his brows twisting)
(Dot looks up, her eyes filled with determination)

(Scene cuts)

(Joey’s office)
(He approaches his drawer that had the Ink Heart, panic in his body language)
(Joey inserts a key)
(And VOILA! NOTHING BUT AN INK STAIN!!)
(Joey’s eyes widen)
(He reaches inside, and sure enough, nothing. He then proceeds to rummage every drawer in his office.)
(Anddd nothing)
(His eyes waver, wondering who could’ve taken it)
(Panics)
(He knocks out a pile of paper on his desk accidentally.)
(It flutters to the floor.)
(Project : Untrusted is on the cover)
(Joey bites his lip, his knees going limp and knocking him to the floor, next to his chair.)
(It’s flippin gone. And he doesn’t know who could’ve taken it.)
(No matter)
(He quickly grabs the patent, and shoves it in there instead, locking the drawer)
(He stands up, still weak)
Joey : (gritting teeth)
(Angry because of his miscalculation)
Gosh, SAMMY!! Why didn’t you come to me!?

(Joey seems to contemplate his decision for a moment)
(Scene cuts)

(Blocked off music dept)

(Corrupted!Sammy has joined the party)
(Sammy’s staggering to his stand, tired)
(He pants, ink dripping out of his mouth)
(He keeps looking at his three-fingered hand. He hates it.)
Sammy : ARGH!!!
(He punches the stand)
(His lips quivers)
Sammy : He’ll set us free..
He..
He will..
(He starts scribbling on the stand with random marks.)
Won’t he?
…..
(Heheh)
(Figure from behind)
Alice (shadowed) : (sweet, sweet voice) Of course!
(Sammy whips around)
(Alice’s standing there, smiling)
Alice : (smiling) Follow me, little sheep. I’ll show you a whole.. new… world.
(Disney ref or something lmao?)
(Sammy stares unsurely at her)
Alice : (giggle)
Cast your worries aside, you can certainly trust an Angel.
(Alice extends a hand)
(Sammy stares for a moment, then takes it.)
(Alice’s tango instrumental)
(Alice lets out a giggle)
(She spins Sammy into a tango pose)
(Sammy, albeit slightly alerted by the sudden dance, takes it with no misstep)
Alice : …
You’re a good dancer.
(Alice lets go)
Sammy : (he draws a sharp breath, signaling that he was taken aback too) What was that for!?
Alice : A test, little sheep. (Giggle)
And you passed!
(It was a test to see if it really was Sammy. Because Sammy’s the best dancer in the music department, and Susie has danced with him before.)
(Sammy remains stoic. No that wasn’t very funny weird Alice Angel caricature.)
(Alice doesn’t mind no reaction from him. She simply continues smiling.)
(She starts walking towards an air grate, and bluntly pulls it out.)
Sammy : ….
Alice : Come on, no one said it was going to be easy.
(Sammy looks at his disfigured hands once more)
(He looks up)
Sammy : Of course.

(Scene cuts)

(Ink Demon walks down a hallway, brining Ink along with him)
Ink : ….
(Chuckles)
(Ink Demon jerks his head)
Ink : (sigh)
Ah, it’s nothing.
I see the Angel running off with a.. prophet.
And another angel.. running off with a wolf.
….
I have to admit I’m quite interested to see, well, see how this goes!
(Ink Demon looks away)
Ink : ….
..
Joey Drew.
…
(Sigh)
Deciding foolish decisions, how typical of him.
(Ink Demon sits down quietly)
Ink : …
Rest, child.
This studio is ours, after all.
We have all the time in..
In the world..
(Someone starts walking down the hallway)
(Ink Demon bolts up, and starts running)
(Ink folllows after)
(The corridor gets lit)
(It cuts to Wally, who just switched a lever on the wall.)
(He stares in confusion)
(The ink noises bubbles louder and louder)
(A small tendril of ink is drawn to Wally)
(Wally backs away a bit)
(The tendril retreats to the ink demon instantly)
(The scene cuts)

(Jack’s nightmare)

(Jack’s new office)
(He falls asleep mid-writing)
(The background goes dark)
(Jack groggily stands up)
(He looks around)

(Suddenly, Sammy appears, a looming shadow)

Jack : (heavy gasp) S-Sammy.
Sammy : …
Jack : (pants)
T- The-
The whole studio’s looking for you. (Heh)
Sammy : He will set us free.
Jack : What?
Sammy : He will set us free.
Jack : Who is he!?
Sammy : He.. he who sleeps in the shadows.
He who will save you. Save us.
Set us free.
Jack : …
..
Sammy.
….
Where are you?
Sammy : Where it all began.
Jack : T- the- where?
Sammy : (giggle) Where it all began, Jack. Where you freed me. Where I found my purpose.
Jack : ..
I don’t understand.
Sammy : You can’t.
You really can’t.
Jack : ..
..
This is a nightmare.
Sammy : Is it? Does it feel like it?
Jack : I- I—It’s not. It’s not REAL!!!!!
Sammy : …..
Jack : ..
Are you still here?
Sammy : Always will be.
Jack : ..
But you’re not, are you?
…..
You’re not here.
But I am.
…
And it doesn’t feel right.
(Snap) None of this feels right!
….
Don’t go.
..
(Sammy backs off. His outfit is now suspenders.
Backs off in reference to the night of the show incident.)
Jack : Don’t.
Go.
(Jack steps forward as well.)
(Sammy steps back even further.)
Jack : Stay.
Please, stay.
..
Maybe we can understand each other.
Now.
That we-
We can be together again.
Maybe-
Maybe-
..
Sammy : Maybe what?
Jack : (desperate) Just stay!
Sammy : …
I understand it now.
Jack : ..
(Soft) What?
Sammy : Why you wanted me to notice you
I also want him to notice me
Jack : T-that.
He who will set us free?
Sammy : …
(Flickers into Ink Sammy)
Yes.
(Jack gasps in shock, staggering back. Suddenly, he falls to the floor/ink void, legs going limp. He looks at himself. It was as if he was melting into the ink.)
(His last vision is of Sammy looking down at him.)
Jack : (waking up) AHHHH!!!!!
(Silence)
(Luckily it was lunch break)
(Jack panics, noticing he had fallen asleep on his notebook.)
(He moves his head.)
(A small, mini transmutation circle is drawn right where his head flopped at.)
(He stares in terror)
(Jack touches the circle again unsurely)
Jack : AH!! (Pulls back finger)
(He pants at it)
(Jack grabs the paper, and crumbles it into a ball. Screw it if it has lyrics, he can’t have that thing lying around.)
(He takes out a lighter)
(FUN FACT!!! In Scene 5 Sammy asked Jack for a lighter, and Jack doesn’t take one out! Hm. Wonder where this one came from?)
(He carefully lights the corner of it)
(The paper burns in his hand)
(Tears rolls down his cheeks as he does it)
(The ink from the paper doesn’t burn. Instead it was as if it was water that had been wrung out of a wet towel. It drips to the floor down Jack’s palm, and seeps through the grated floor.)
(Jack stares)

(Scene cuts)

(In-game Tom and Allison’s hideout)
(Alice passes by a pile of bacon soup on the worktable)
Alice : Make yourself at home.
(Sammy sits on one of the beds. He touches his chest, like making sure or something)
Sammy : …
What is this place?
Alice : Just some old room I found. Renovations after renovations.. walls after walls.
..
And then, this place, long forgotten.
Sammy : ….
Alice : So! Hungry?
Sammy : Do I need to- eat?
Alice : Depends.
Do you long for the taste of food?
Or does the taste of bitter ink still lingers in your tongue?
Sammy : ….
….
..
Alice : (giggle)
Ah, well, bacon soup’s not so bad.
Sammy : …
Alice : (she leisurely grabs a can, and pops it open with her bare hands) So, what about that “he” you were talking about.
Sammy : (excited, almost trembling) He can- he can set us free! Free from this, inky abyss. His voice, it spoke to me, he said he’d set us free.
Alice : And how exactly?
Sammy : ..
I need to please him. I know it.
Alice : (sips from can) Go on.
Sammy : (standing up) Y- you’re an Angel. You can help me! We can be free!
Alice : ….
(Heh)
Fine!
But perhaps, we can make a trade.
Ooh, I love a good deal!
(Ironic, considering Sammy has recently had his life screwed over by deals.)
(Sammy bolts up)
Sammy : What is it?
(Alice grabs an axe from the worktable)
Alice : Be my little errand boy.
Sammy : ..
What?
Alice : I didn’t say this new life’s gonna be easy.
Sammy : …
Alice : (she spins the axe around and points it at Sammy)
Besides, not so safe nowadays, hmm? Consider it a little present.
(Sammy takes the axe, with a little too much confidence.)
Alice : Fantastic!! (Beams)
Just gather me a few spare parts from those little valve panels.
Sammy : Why-
Alice : (half giggle-half unsettling laugh) No more questions, little errand boy.
…
There’s so little truths to this world now, and such, little sense in this madness.
It’d be better if you stay put and obey, well, whoever you believe in..!
Angel or demon.
Sammy : …
Alice : (giggle, a hint of malice in her voice) Now, chop chop, we’ve got work to do!
Sammy : …
Fine.
…..
But one last question, mysterious Angel.
Alice : Better choose your next words carefully, Sammy.
Sammy : ….
(Whisper) What happened to your face-
(Alice whips out a machete, she points it at Sammy’s neck, Sammy, still rough on the axe, didn’t retort in time.)
Alice : Ah-ah..
Wrong question, little errand boy….
(The shot ends with zooming in to Sammy’s face and Alice’s expression respectively)