Cauda 01 - Everything In Place

"Ready and willing!"

"We excelled in the strangest places.

Full time job putting apes in cages.

Flies on the table, leashed to a maypole,

Muddy are the eyes of the great escapist." ~ Jam Baxter

Coda, from the Latin cauda: A concluding musical section that is formally distinct from the main structure. ~ Merriam-Webster 11th Collegiate Dictionary

(To those on RR, WP, WN and QUO, you reeeeallllly should read the previous two books. While I wrote those with the ability to jump in wherever, a lot of this won't make any sense unless you at least skim through them. Same goes for AO3 but you all can see this is part of a series. Happy reading!)

Dark was the night. Rain lightly fell from the skies. Not enough to ruin plans but enough to dampen attitudes. Why did it have to rain now of all nights? Whatever. You weren't going to let this minor inconvenience ruin months of planning. The weather report only called for a few centimetres anyways.

It was all to end here.

For Displo.

For what they did to Tabi.

For the all the others.

The Dearest Family would fall.

You decide to do a roll call. Now or never. With your comlink you do some checks.

"Team Fortran?" You ask. "Are you all ready?"

"I don't see why you'd need to check for us. We are right here." Solazar said.

"Ready and willing!" Tess declared.

"I to, am ready, on standby." Displo said.

"Team Lisp?"

"Such weak defenses. This is what he protects himself with? Can't we just go in and slaughter them all?" S said happily.

"We're ready. Can we get started now? I'm getting bored here." Nikusa said.

"I-I'm ready!" Nikku said, still using Tess' voice.

"Soon. Team Python. I am ready. How about everyone else?"

"Yes." Tabi said quietly. He sounded focused.

"They're gonna pay for what they did to my bro." Aldryx said. "Thanks man. I'd do the same thing for you." Agoti added as they fist-bumped.

"Team Zig?"

"It's bloody cold out here." Theo said.

"I-I'm sorry. I can't control it." Ace replied rather sadly.

"Nah, it's just cause the water's cold. Nothing to do with you." Kapi said.

Huggy emitted some sort of sound in agreement.

"Suffice to say we are all getting in position and ready." Updike concluded.

"Team Haskell?"

"Almost there. I don't care what this witch says. I'm getting answers." Annie spat from her end.

"The heaven did you just call me? I am NOT a witch! You wanna end this right now?" Carol said threateningly.

"Girls. Girls. Please. Save that energy for the gate." Whitty complained, groaning in annoyance.

"Team Cobol?"

"My Gang is armed. I am too. The Fae are watching closely." Rosie said. You could hear cocking her sniper rifle.

"This ends here." Radi said coldly. "After this I won't need this stupid curse anymore."

"Ah, it's not so bad Radi." Rosie added encouragingly.

"..."

"Pompom. You ready too?"

"Aye, aye, captain! Oooo. I can't wait! Ican'twait!!!!" Pompom whispered. Just from her comlink there you could hear a lot of noise. As she excused herself earlier you guessed she was standing outside, taking in the rain or something.

"That accounts for everyone then. Best of luck."

"We don't need luck." Tabi added. "We got skill."

With everyone in check you get in position yourself. Willing, armed and ready, tonight was gonna be a fun night.

Nobody carried a flag with them tonight.

This time it was winner take all.

Now Playing...

Artist: Store

Song: Re:pol Introl

Link: https://youtu.be/YW-p6kdHwuQ

Currently you and most of the others watched from an IRIS data centre far south of the Compound. A futuristic interior surrounded everyone. White walls, computer screens projected onto them, white floors with all sorts of see-through wires running in them and holograms to boot.

Thanks to S and TGG the output of nearly every single camera near the compound was visible. A section of the wall remained black; screens ready to display the compound's exterior when S got in.

S preconfigured them all, himself more than excited to begin the mission. As part of some 'hype' thing, Nikusa got Nikku to ask who S' 'most hated person' was. Some doctor named Starline.

She then proceeded to make up some connection between the family and this Starline, ultimately goading S into hating them as much as Tabi did. She claimed the Family helped fund and support Starline's reign on Mobius. You found out far too late to stop it and now S wanted blood. Starting then he put 110% of his anger towards the heist.

Nevermind about Tabi wanting to kill the Family, if S got his way the compound would be covered in blood.

As such, it was finally time to put that to the test as the spaceborne trio were the first team on the scene. The plan dictated they sneak into the mailroom from the northwest and raid it. Once they controlled all surveillance they could control the narrative.

One of the large screens displayed a map of the compound and a bunch of blinking lights and simple pictures. Currently it showed the data centre lit up, many blinking images blotting it out. A new update to the comlink, courtesy of a programmer at TGG. It displayed a rough estimate of each comlink's location, effectively allowing to track everyone's position.

To the northwest of the compound a few icons already in position.

A convenient store, due slight northwest was where Nikku, S and Nikusa currently hung out. Nikku had gone in and got popsicles for her and the voidqueen. S got his share too, leeching electricity from the store.

Two stories high gave them a vague overlook of the compound. S wore a hoodie concealing his 'mechanical body'. Though his suit waterproof he still worried about rust. Nikku and Nikusa too both had hoods on as they watched. With a cliff covering the north of the compound, it was surrounded on the 3 remaining sides by a black fence. Electrified, it did a good job keeping out intruders. The convenient store stood near one of the few places the fence ended, a steep hill being all needed to separate the properties.

Despite the opening, the area still had patrols. Nikku watched as a pair of demons walked along the perimeter, hurrying to avoid the light rain. From behind an imaginary line a series of trees, hills, and, according to the map, a guard post: a gazebo of demons watching.

They could see the mailroom just a distance away, a plain grey building with one tiny window. Jagged concrete walls, it's appearance more akin to a substation than a regular surveillance hub. Attached to the building stood another one that the map had labeled "Storage Room".

S watched closely, occasionally leaving his body to scan around. "There's a bunch of cameras in the grass." He said quietly.

They discussed the plan beforehand and Nikku stood up first. Under her hood she wore a scratchy, flowing red wig. On top of her jumpsuit she wore a red and black jacket. Her face remained mostly concealed by darkness, but it could be seen the top of her head had been painted a light purple. Though a sloppy disguise her voice would be the star ingredient.

"Are you all ready?" Nikusa asked.

"I hope so. I hope so." Nikku said, adjusting her voice to Mommy's.

"You sound good." S said gleefully.

"Maybe we should just charge in." Nikusa commented.

"No. We need stealth above all." Solazar chimed in through the comlink.

"I know fancy pants. I was just kidding."

"C'mon Nikku. Let's go." S said. He lost the inflection of smiling in his voice. There was no time for jokes right now. He wanted his revenge, no matter how incorrect it was.

Nikku climbed down the building, S hovering beside her. Under the cover of nightfall they remained invisible. The lights from S' eyes and armour were the only things providing exposure. As they touched down he dimmed them.

Atop the store a parasol had been set up. Large in size it was just enough for Nikusa to sit under. Next to her a small box and antenna had been brought. One of the magical amplifiers required to boost Pompom's spell. It also doubled as a volume booster for Nikku's comlink, allowing Nikusa to better hear whoever spoke to her.

Whereas Nikku was supposed to replicate Mommy's attitude, Nikusa and S found she lacked the 'aggression' and 'senseless violence' the real Mommy had. As such, Nikusa would instruct Nikku what to say and S could commit the senseless violence for her.

The convenient store stood on a slight incline leading down to the compound. Carefully, Nikku started to step down, S keeping close beside her. The rain gave cause to mud, and Nikku found herself sliding down the muddy dirt. S grabbed under her arms and steadied her as she slid, keeping her balance.

"Thanks." She whispered as they reached level ground.

Through S' eyes you and the others could see a 360 view of what he saw. A small screen on Nikusa's box displayed the same thing.

Nikku started to walk towards the compound, feeling particularly devious tonight. "Stand up straight." Nikusa said through the comlink. "You aren't a thief. You're a demon warlord."

Nikku nodded and walked upright, a swagger in her step. They were expecting demons to show up at any second, no doubt the cameras having spotted them by now. They made sure to avoid the guard post.

Though the compound was dark it was not pitch black, and they could easily see where they moved, the mailroom in sight, obscured by a few trees. But just as Nikku thought her costume perfect, something emerged from behind the trees.

One on either side, two demons had arrived.

"Mommy?" One asked with a deep voice. S landed on the ground as Nikku faced them. She pulled her hood off, revealing the auburn hair. The only thing she lacked was the glowing eyes though Nikusa intended to have Nikku play it off, sunglasses covering those eyes.

Though some on the team were familiar with the henchmen, this was Nikku's first close look at them. The so-called Family Henchmen. They all had a similar appearance, Updike confirming that the Family recruited from the same clan of demons.

To your surprise nearly everyone on the team was familiar with them, only Pomona and some others even needing the explanation.

They stood average height, reddish-pink skin and an abnormally long face with a sharp jaw. They all had the same haircut: flat top with spikes on the side and the same sunglasses and stupidly smiling faces. Uniforms were uniform with a slim but just slightly fit build with pointed shoulders. They all wore the same one, a dark blue open jacket, no undershirt and black pants, black running shoes. They were officially part of Mommy's backup dancer crew, patrolling the compound as a side gig.

The two Nikku saw wore oversized clothing, suits not tailored. Their oversized suits hid whatever strength and muscle they had.

Looking them over made it abundantly clear why disguising or even flipping a henchmen would be impossible. They were cookie-cutter as could come.

Pomona, wanting to learn more asked Zardy. The demonic scarecrow burst out laughing when she said what clan they originated from. "Oh yeah they're loyal. But their downright stupid."

"Nikku just repeat after me." Nikusa said from the comlink. Nikku cleared her throat. "Be aggressive. Say, 'that's right. You blind or something'."

"That's right. You blind or something?" Nikku spat.

"W-what are you doing out here?" The demon asked, still eyeing 'Mommy', discerning if it was even her.

"Goin' for a walk. Then to the mailroom." Nikku said, more forcibly this time, Nikusa coaching her. She puffed up her chest, adding more authority to her stance.

"Who's that?" The other demon asked. Despite the rain the demon still had a large grin, it's jaw and mouth shaped like an upside-down triangle.

"The hell's with all these questions?" Nikku asked, raising her voice. "You don't keep up with what's goin' on? He's a new recruit, testing things out."

"B-but I thought we the only guards."

"You idiot! Not that kind of recruit. Now kill-" Nikku tensed up, almost repeating the wrong words.

"Nikku, kill one of them." Nikusa repeated.

"P-pardon?" One of the demons asked, unsure why she had stopped.

Nikku looked to S, unsure, who nodded back. Kill one. "Argh. Fine, order S to kill one of them. Start repeating."

Nikku cleared her throat.

"How about I show you how he works?" Nikku said forcibly, then switched midway to malice.

She pointed to S. "Do your thing."

"With pleasure." S said gleefully. He lunged forward and grabbed one of the demons by the throat, lifting him up as S used his rocket boots. He gripped hard, cutting off circulation.

"What the hell are you people doing?" Solazar shouted from the comlink. "Put him down! We are not trying to kill indiscriminate-"

"Alright, alright. S put him down. We'll kill later."

S complied, dropping the demon onto the ground. He himself levitated back down and resumed his stance beside Nikku.

They understood this had to have been Mommy, and as usual she wasn't playing around.

"Now. I'm going to the mailroom. You don't got a problem with that do ya? Smil-" Nikku smiled awkwardly.

Not asking any more questions the demons led her to the 'mailroom'. They looked to have some sort of communication with the others as S overheard them mumble. Intimidation worked as they looked away when S glared at them.

Up close the mailroom stood tall. A long building that looked to have two stories. The only building in the compound made entirely out of pure concrete. No windows except two single windows did nothing but scream out how 'locked-down' it was. The wall facing the convenient store was flat, with a single small window on the second floor. The longer walls were jagged, concrete lines extruding like spikes. A building labeled 'storage' had been built adjoining it, though that one looked far more normal.

"Can I ask what you're gonna do in there?" One of the demons asked meekly.

"That's it! The hell did I just say?!" Nikku shouted. "SCRAM! Don't you got some patrol to do? You're really gettin' on my nerves!"

"S-sorry mommy."

The two quickly scampered off leaving Nikku and S to complete the rest of the walk.

"This is tough." She whispered.

They continued walking. "What do you mean? You've done great so far. Those chumps were terrified." S said.

Nikku gulped. Though Earthquake and Flashbang had real dangers to them, she felt scared this time. Worry was gnawing at her. It didn't help that the one time she spoke to Ace he randomly blurted out that death always came in threes, that he was terrified Retro was dead. Updike chastised him then, but she couldn't get that conversation out of her head. And her team was 3 people. One of the only ones too.

"Worst case I'm right behind you in 2 minutes flat." Nikusa said through the comlink. "Remember what we learned? Rule 12."

"Don't surrender."

"Damn straight. Anything happens, S and I will cause a bloodbath."

Solazar sighed, hearing the conversation. Should have stopped Nikusa from influencing her, he thought.

A concrete wall stood in front of them now. Plain and minimal it contained nothing but a camera looking down, a pad and two simple blue doors. Nothing fancy looking, and nothing to arouse suspicion of this being a "surveillance hub".

It was a voice activated pad, something Tabi confirmed as well as the floor plan. Nikku walked up to it and pushed a button. "Let me in!" She said angrily.

A green light lit and a clicking sound heard, the doors were unlocked.

Nikku understood that her disguise was shoddy and that it was only boosted because of rain and darkness. But, in the mailroom it would fall apart instantly. She would've been identified soon as she entered. Per the plan, it would be up to S now.

S didn't share the same thoughts, instead thinking he had to hold back if the fighting started. He wanted to make them suffer, take it slow and painful. After all, they helped ruin Mobius!

Nikku grabbed the door handle, thinking back to what was discussed.

Once they stepped in, S would need to:

1. Take over the systems via a physical connection. Demonic technology proved impossible to port in remotely, but if he could touch it he would fare better.

2. Defeat the demons and secure the room. Do it fast enough that no alarms could be rung, and none could escape.

S and Theo planned for this, ensuring S be able seamlessly porting in and out of the shell, jumping from computer to computer to robotic suit in mere nanoseconds.

Doors opened, Nikku and S stepped in.

Like the outside of the building, the interior was just as plain. No fancy tech like the prison's surveillance hub, this looked to be just adequate.

No second floor either, just a really high ceiling. On the right, a massive row of huge monitors and little ones all sitting in a row going to the end of the building. Some of the screens were gargantuan, stretching to the ceiling. S scanned them quickly. Some contained a collage of cameras, and some contained maps.

Beneath them a series of smaller, normal-sized computers with a long, connected desk in front. Intermittently seated in a row going down to the wall were demons, each one having a few monitors to scan.

To the left were storage shelves and racks of various equipment, pieces to repair cameras and the monitors. They were filled with things S did not care to inspect further. Amongst the racks on a wall were some doors, presumably leading to the storage room building.

Per the floor plan directly to the left of Nikku was a proper desk and monitor, meant for the bosses. Thankfully, the boss appeared to be out.

S counted the demons. 16. Plus one hellhound. All watching the cameras. None seemed to care too much except for one that turned to see who entered.

Nikku, with her added swagger went to the security's desk and took a seat, pretending to look busy. She noticed a name placard listing the "Head of Security". She just put it down, pretending she owned the thing.

"Carry on!" She shouted, per Nikusa's instruction. "Pretend I'm not here." She added, playing off her appearance being some unscheduled observation.

S looked at his options. He could take out the demons in under 3 minutes. It would be violent as hell but didn't care. Though in those 3 minutes, one could call for backup, blow the whole operation. No. A different approach would be necessary. Control would be required first.

Nikku tried to look as foreboding as she could, glaring at the demons who looked her way.

S strolled up to the cameras, nonchalant. Though his eyes appeared to watch the massive screens, he really scanned for an open port, something to enter.

Sniffing something odd, the one hellhound started walking towards Nikku, passing by S.

Still thinking of a plan, S wondered if he could point out Nikusa, pretend to fight and subdue her then bring her back to the mailroom and ambush them. No, that would definitely cause a family member to show up. She'd have to come later. Nikusa was not on the Family's good side either.

He determined he would need to physically enter the system. Most of the demons ignored him but some looked worried. He played it off as if he were inspecting them, occasionally getting into their personal space.

Nikku stared into the distance, not looking at anything in particular. Though she felt fine something kept gnawing at her. Like she was in a daze or suffering from vertigo. Must be the pressure, she determined. An intense barking broke her daze as the hellhound started barking, growling and snarling.

Though it looked like a German Shephard, the flames on its ears and tails and crimson coloured fur indicated its 'hellish-ness'. Panicking, Nikku froze. Nikusa butt in instantly, shouting at Nikku.

"Someone get this mutt out of my face! I am not in the mood for this bullshit!" Nikku shouted, looking away from the hellhound. Some demon quickly ran up and grabbed it by the collar, chastising it for making a scene.

Unbeknownst to the three, it rose a lot of suspicion from the demons. After all, the hellhounds were always so nice to Mommy. They rationalized it as to either Mommy having a bad day or that strange hedgehog robot triggering it.

Either way, one demon took it and brought it outside.

S continued to inspect. Though he had been told the technology was demonic-in-origin, these looked relatively normal. Scrawled onto some of the machines he noticed runes and strange symbols. Magic-powered?

"Might need Pomona." He systematically transmitted to the centre.

"Absolutely not. Not until you get control." Displo said.

"Where is Pompom anyways?" Tess asked.

"She went to the washroom. She'll be back. Don't worry." Displo added.

Now Playing...

Artist: Nobuyuki Shioda

Song: M.O.M.

Link: https://youtu.be/t2a-EbzikxU

With the strange appearance of Mommy, the dog attack and this weird murderous hedgehog the demons were concerned. Summoning enough courage one demon got up and started walking to Nikku. S paused, considering killing it then and there. No. Not yet. He continued looking over the computers for a sign of entry, even scanning the surrounding area's spectrum. Nothing but garbled signals. There was one way. And he knew he was smart enough to figure it out. It would depend on how long it would take. Milliseconds? Nanoseconds? Might as well try.

"Mommy? Are you okay today? Can we help?" The demon asked, approaching Nikku. "You don't look-"

S punched a hole right into the nearest monitor, hoping it would tether him to it. The demons, shocked by the sudden smash all turned to see S' lifeless body hit the ground, sparks flying everywhere.

"I'm in." Nikku heard on the comlink. There wasn't much time left. S inputted all the commands he could.

execute CVE-2021-34527

DRIVE_INFO_2 initialize DRIVER_CONTAINER

execute payload sonic.exe

call RpcAddPrinterDriver.sonic.exe

"Elevated Command Shell Obtained!"

A printer nearby started to smoke as S worked his magic. That too caught the attention of the demons, finding the whole display strange.

netsh interface *. re-direct ports *. > 192.168.0.41

From within the data centre, Solazar and Tess watched as the empty cameras started to come to life, giving a more intimate view of the compound.

"That should stop them from calling their babysitters." S cackled from Nikku's comlink. "Connection's heavily encrypted but I'm setting up some GRE Tunnels. They'll take a few minutes. Either way we. Are. IN!"

"You aren't Mommy!" One of the demons shouted. "You're a fake!"

The other demons all stopped and turned to her, faces frowning and smirking at the same time. Both the disappointment that they had gotten fooled, and the incoming bloodbath filled their minds.

"Nikusa, need you now!" Nikku said to her comlink.

"Just who the hell are you?" The demon asked. It drew a switchblade, pointing it at Nikku.

Over at the store, Nikusa got up and smashed the screen and transmitter.

Nikku stood up. "Now just hold on-" Her wig fell off, revealing her pink hair.

"Shoot."

There was an audible gasp.

With the network compromised, S returned to his body jumping up. He quickly climbed atop the desk and shouted. "THIS PLACE IS UNDER CARNIVAL CONTROL NOW!"

With the demons distracted Nikku hopped the desk and made for the racks. She grabbed the first thing she saw, a bracket for a server rack, wielding the long piece of metal like a sword.

With Solazar informing Nikusa of patrol locations Nikusa made for the mailroom, hopping from tree to tree and hiding where needed.

Nikku suddenly felt a hot flash hit her and froze, dropping the rack. S flew up and landed next to her, helping her up. Re-focusing she grabbed the bracket and, remembering her breast pocket pulled out a bottle of holy water, courtesy of Carol. Dousing the bracket in it she readied, remembering how Nikusa taught her to fight.

"30 seconds away." Nikusa said from the comlink.

The demons started to encircle S and Nikku, now fully grinning and ready for a slaughter. They cracked their knuckles in anticipation.

While Nikku was starting to worry, S grinned as wide as he'd ever done. While the demons looked at the two like a lion would its prey, so did S.

The first one charged S, waving a switchblade violently. S didn't react, instead using his jet boots to launch into the demon, punching a hole clean through it. He laughed maniacally as dominant faces turned surprised.

S cackled.

The other two charged at Nikku, the voiceless one defending herself. One of the demon's knives got stuck in the bracket as she swung. Hand still on the switchblade she pulled and vaulted one of the demons into the other. Resuming her fighting stance, the attack did little to slow her two assailants. They got up, though now slightly disheveled.

Meanwhile, the others charged S, still a bit fearful at what exactly he was. Simultaneously he'd taken control of the large monitor, now using it to display a scoreboard.

CARNIVAL 1 - 0 FAMILY

He continued to fight back, smashing heads together, breaking limbs and using his speed and brutality to make quick work. A few demons started to run, seeing just how outmatched they were. Nikku too, slammed the server bracket on her assaults. Coupled with the holy water it burned some, also fleeing. S turned his attention to her assailants, breaking ribs and snapping necks. One of the demons made for the computer, attempting to call an alarm.

S walked slowly towards the demon, giggling as it realized S was in control now. S was enjoying himself, not once having let this loose since before the team.

Some demons made it to the door before the window above smashed open, glass shards hitting some of them. In came Nikusa, who with a triumphant face effectively traumatized the remaining demons.

Getting closer, S spoke to the demon. "No calling for help. Just you and me now. This is what you get for Mobius." He said, salivating blood on the projection.

Gorey details notwithstanding, the team dealt with them. Nikusa started moving storage racks to blockade the entrance, Nikku helping. As S piled up the bodies he did a quick count, finding...14.

"Where the hell?" S started glancing around. "DID YOU SEE ANYONE LEAVE?"

"Nope." Nikku said, returning to using Tess' voice.

They looked to the side, seeing the only surviving demon open the storage room door and disappear inside.

"After him!" S shouted, launching after the door. But, before S could even smash through it, the door flew open, demon flying out. It flew back, smashing into the storage racks, knocking a few loose monitors onto it.

Curious as to what knocked it out, S hovered in front of the door. While dark he could easily see inside. Scanning the hallway, he made a figure out standing there when an object flew at him at mach speed.

Though S tried to dodge he just barely made it out of the way when a woodcutter's axe flew out of the room. Blade cut through the metal joint easy, slicing S' robotic arm off. He lost balance, crashing into a server rack.

"Argh!" S shouted. More annoyed than anything he felt little pain, mind already going through the motions on how to repair it.

Nikku and Nikusa had different reactions, Nikku hit with surprise. Nikusa felt curious as the being emerged from the storage room hallway.

Getting up, S used his rockets to hover away, giving the figure room. He now determined how to repair himself, next was how much hell he needed to give his attacker.

Out of the storage room emerged a skinny, but tall figure, all it's limbs black. Not human nor anthro, it appeared moreso like a crude drawing of a stick figure. Simple hands and feet, nothing but thick black lines and a few outlines indicating a pelvis and chest. Its head was the only 'normal' thing about it. Standing at the door's height it ducked to get in the door.

A round head, white skin like the axe it threw. It was pissed off, eyes bloodshot and a deep red. "Y-you guys just can't keep it down can y-you?!" The figure shouted. It twitched as it moved.

A collar hung around its neck, a red light blinking on it.

Cauda 02 - Smiles for Everyone

"The hell am I dealing with?"

Now Playing...

Artist: Zipcult

Song: NE O

Link: https://youtu.be/1Puds6hDWpg

The being picked up the barn axe and wielded it. It moved erratically, appearing to 'skip frames' as it scanned it's three opponents. It stood tall, lanky and at about Nikusa's height.

Its eyes were bloodshot, practically bulging out of its head. It was the only colour present on its body aside from the pale white head and pitch-black body.

S found the creature strange but nonetheless another target. From S' eyes Displo and Solazar could see it. "What magnificent luck.." Displo remarked. Tess would have seen it to had she not stepped out to check on Pompom.

Solazar's first instinct was to pull up the IRIS and TGG databases, begin searching but Displo stopped him. "No need." He adjusted his tie. "This is my expertise. Focus on logistics for the other teams."

"On it." Solazar said, resuming his attention on the cameras.

Opening up the IRIS database, Displo entered the keyword. T_023F. It took a few seconds, but the profile appeared on the screen.

"Someone wanna fill me in? The hell am I dealing with?" S asked. Though he already envisioned several ways he could kill it, he wanted confirmation first.

"That's a trollge. A specific type of abomination. It carries trauma with it. Specifically, that is Case 23, codenamed Smiler. One of the few trollge's who actually escaped the Fall of TCF. "

"Is it killable?" S asked.

Despite its previously hostile behaviour, Smiler just stared at the three, unsure of who to attack first. It stood hunched, breathing heavily. A scowl on it's face indicated it did not like being here.

Still speaking with extreme confidence, Displo continued. "They have extreme durability. The 'correct' way to kill one is to solve its 'riddle'."

"Wat?" S asked.

"It's complicated. A trollge is like a ghost, still here because it has unresolved business. Solve the business and it will vanish."

"Whatever. I don't care what he is. He's mine. Can I just beat it to death?"

"I wouldn't recommend it, S."

"Everything dies." Nikusa added. "Just a matter of how much beating it can take." She said, chuckling.

"We aren't here to collect any abominations so do whatever you want. I don't care." Updike said brashly, turning his comlink back to neutral.

The trollge's eyes finally settled on Nikku. "You." It muttered, bloodshot eyes tearing up. "D-derpina...?"

The trollge shook its head. "You're an imposter." It twitched again, likely on the verge of some psychotic break.

Nikku raised the bracket and stepped back, ready for a fight.

"D-do you remember me?" It asked, still a violent but confused look on its face.

"I don't know what you're talking about." Nikku mumbled. As she looked at the trollge she felt a tire wash over her. Not like her earlier hot flashes, they felt entirely different.

"YOU ARE A FAKE! YOU ARE ARE ARE A FAKE!" The trollge raised its axe and ran towards her. It barely made it a step before S slammed into it, rocket jumping into a headbutt. They slammed into a wall.

Feeling some energy back, she ran to Nikusa, getting as much space as possible between them. Giving her a helping hand, Nikusa took Nikku to the monitors, getting her way.

"We aren't done you..." S paused, unable to come up with a proper nickname for it. He stood over the trollge. "You got a cheap shot, but I only need one hand to kill...you." S stopped.

The trollge just remained on the ground, in a fetal position, whimpering. "They took her. I can't believe she took her." He muttered over and over again, now crying.

"What the hell is wrong with you?" S spat, annoyed at the being's actions. "Fight me you coward!"

"NO! YOU STOLE MY DAUGHTER! GIVE HER BACK!" The trollge jumped up and tackled S, axe swinging. Though the blade crashed into S' eye, it was one of the most reinforced parts, the blade doing no damage. On top of S, the trollge slammed the axe down and down onto S vainly. It did little damage to the hedgehog who did little to fight back. A few strikes later it dropped the axe and punched S. It slowed down, punches turned to mere slaps.

"I can't fight. I don't want to fight. No more shocks. Please. I don't want to do it anymore." It pleaded and got up, stumbling backwards. "Please. Don't make me." It wept.

"He has a life drain ability, so be careful about standing near him." Displo said.

"We kinda figured that out." Nikku said, feeling a lot better now.

"He's been missing since the TCF collapsed. Exercise, uh, I guess little caution. Doesn't seem that dangerous." Displo said, still enamoured his research was actually needed.

"I can tell too. Stupid. How the hell did you cut my arm off?" S said, more annoyed than anything. He got up and started kicking Smiler in frustration, the trollge just crying, not doing anything.

"Man whatever. Gets boring when they get to the hopeless stage. You're such a pansy." S said. Looking over the distressed monster, S took note of another aspect. Shock collar, a red light blinking on it. It emitted a signal which rebounded off the console. Due to S' rewiring the signal didn't reach anymore. For the moment the collar was useless.

Grinning, S ordered a shock, sending volts through Smiler. "Let's see what you got!" S said sadistically. The being groaned in agony ads it's tears dried up. Feeling particularly capable he turned and started walking away. The crying stopped and Smiler got up, quietly picking up the axe. Bloodshot eyes returning he starred at the back of S. He mumbled something about the voices returning.

Nikku and Nikusa watched what happened next but said nothing. Both knew S could see all around him.

Smiler crept up on S, raising the axe in an attempt to bring it down on his head. S yawned and raising his remaining arm aimed it at Smiler, letting loose a blast of energy.

He turned around, now noticing that Smiler's appearance had changed too. He grew larger, hands now having tendrils and stretching longer. Most of all, his face changed, contorting from its spherical shape into a distorted smile. A smile that stretched his face outwards, as if the grin the centre of the head. It stretched to his chest. His bloodshot eyes were replaced by two gaping black voids.

He giggled maniacally. "I'm terribly sorry for my 'other' appearance. I simply forgot some things. But now. I'm back! Let's do a little trolling shall we?"

From the data centre, Solazar and Tess had stopped paying attention to the fight, focusing on the other teams and organizing everything. From Nikusa's wiretap of the family they determined he was one of the people present at that 'Night of Fire' meeting.

Displo watched anxiously, not concerned about S but worried they hadn't disarmed the forcefield or completed the mailroom takeover yet. He knew what S did as well, and while he didn't approve of it, also didn't see how it could derail anything further.

"Alright you freak." S said, excited now. "Bring it on!"

Smiler swung the axe, ready to bring it upon S' head again. S let him get a bit closer, loving the thrill of it. He used his last arm to block the shot, holding it back.

"Gonna have to try harder buddy, no more cheap shots."

With his remaining arm S fired a beam at Smiler. Blocking it with his ask, it moved erratically, closing the distance between it and S.

Swinging the axe upon the S, he grinned maniacally. S dodged, rocket boots propelling him out of the way. Catching himself on the ground he bolted to Smiler, fist out. Smiler brought the axe down, S' first and the axe colliding. With the momentum gained from the run he uppercut the axe. It flew up, landing to the side. S aimed a blast at Smiler. The being moved fast, grabbing S' remaining hand and cupping it, the monsters tendrils easily covering it and part of S' arm. They pulsed,

"S, be careful! They have a way of replicating. Shouldn't affect robots but it could harm Nikku or Nikusa. Wrap this up!" Displo said.

Grinning almost as much as Smiler he let the blast go. It exploded in a bright light, singing Smiler's hand and ripping through it. Smiler was launched to the wall. Though one of his hands burned it reformed quickly, giving ample time to the monster to grab his axe and aim for S.

"Go S!" Nikku shouted from afar.

"H-honey?" Smiler froze. In that instant he choked up again, loosening his grip on the axe. S easily pushed it back, using his boots to launch up and force Smiler down. He flew up and, rotating down, rocketed downwards, smashing a hole clean through the trollge, and hitting the bare concrete.

It smashed into the concrete itself, though did little to stop Smiler. Whatever he was made of reformed instantly around S' fist.

"Huh. Guess Starline was right." S muttered.

"I can't let you hurt my daughter. No. I cannot let you!" His smile started to fade, a round face returning. Eyes of darkness turned white, resuming the same desperate and lost look from before. He grabbed S' intending to use his hands to dig into S' eyes. Though, with the metallic build he found he couldn't do it. He changed his attempt, attempting to choke out S, even draining his life force.

S just looked at him, bored.

Nikku watched as Smiler tried to torture the hedgehog, Smiler getting progressively angrier that it couldn't harm the being.

"Buddy. I'm leagues above whatever the hell you are supposed to be." S said laughing.

Nikusa had turned her attention to the systems looking them over.

"Should we help him?" Nikku asked.

"Hm?" Nikusa turned. "Nah. I've seen some sickos in my time, but this dudes barely got a grip on himself."

Frustrated by S' invincibility he had taken to trying to rip S' other arm out of its socket. This action finally started to annoy S. "That's enough BS from you. You're weak. You're a freak. You barely constitute anything. Lemme show you what a real monster can do." S spat, letting loose a massive blast of energy freeing his hand and nearly splitting Smiler into two. Smiler hit the wall for a third time, starting to realize just out outmatched he was.

As Nikusa began hooking up the systems to IRIS, Displo turned his attention to S' wholesale torture of Smiler.

"S that's enough."

"What? Ah, c'mon. I'm just getting started."

"You're quite literally torturing a grieving father. I know Smiler's casefile. He cannot harm you."

While arguing with S, he glared at Smiler who looked back terrified of the metal hedgehog.

"Uh-huh. He cut my arm off! And what about Nikku? He tried to kill her!"

"And you almost bisected him." Displo replied. "We can get rid of him the normal way. I believe Nikusa can deal with him. Please finish the system setup."

"Argh. Fine. You're such a killjoy. If we see another one of these freaks, I want a better go at them then!" S complained as he turned on Smiler and walked away to collect his fallen arm.

Smiler desperately tried to reform himself, reconnecting his body to his lower half. The axe just laid discarded on the side though he looked scared. Whatever pulled him into the twisted form earlier was long gone. His actions were frantic and scared.

Still watching from S' 360 view, Displo sighed. Much as Smiler was technically an 'abomination', he felt bad at its predicament. Freeing it was one thing, but S knew only torture.

"Nikusa. Can I ask you'll be nicer to it?" Displo asked, Solazar scoffing visibly heard on the link.

"Ehn. Emotionally damaged freaks aren't really my thing...well not THIS damaged." She laughed. With Nikku behind her, Nikusa walked up to Smiler, cracking her fists.

"So, Smiler is it? I'm curious about this life drain ability."

Having reformed part of his body he just looked up at Nikusa. "N-no. It can't be you. Why do you torment me like this? J-just leave me alone. Y-you took my daughter." Smiler trembled.

Nikusa shook her head. "Yeah. I can't do this. It's like beating a puppy. Can't even manipulate it. Displo how can we kill it?"

Displo sighed again. "S. I want you to go to the creature. Allow me to speak directly to it."

"Alright fancypants. Can I kill it after?"

"I will walk you through it but yes."

Leaving the console S hovered to Smiler. Still frantic it tried to push against the wall, a pathetic attempt at escaping.

"You were called Smiler, were you not?" Displo asked, his voice emitting from S.

"I-I don't know anymore. I don't want to fight. It's too much."

"There won't be any fighting, but I need you to answer my questions."

"I just want to see my daughter again. Please. I can hear her close."

Nikku didn't know what to think of the creature. Though it kept referring to her as her daughter she couldn't help shake the feeling there was a connection. It didn't help that her memories were coming back faster. Maybe it was hot flashes or the stress. She got closer just to see Smiler better.

"There will be time for that later. Just bear with me. I want to help. We brought her here for you. Do you remember being in a prison?"

"A prison, yes. B-but it wasn't like this. N-no flashing lights, no computt-ters nothing. I-I-"

"I see." Displo said. "But then you ended up here."

"T-that man took me, he took my daughter he took my-" A volt of electricity shot through Smiler's neck, visibly shocking him. He tensed up, the troll-like face returning. Even his skin changed colour, turning from the ghostly white to a pale yellow.

"S! Did you do t-"

"Hahahha! I am sorry about that. Where were we...right!" Smiler jumped up and grabbed the axe. He lunged at Nikku, ready to cut her down. Though, while too far to hit, it didn't matter as S was there instantly, hand blocking the axe blade.

S' eyes went black. "No more questions tinman. We do this my way now."

"Very well." Displo replied. A line had been crossed and he saw no reason to disagree.

"S! Rip his collar off!" Nikku shouted.

"Damn, that's a good idea. I like it." S said, turning his head 360 to agree with her.

Smiler understood that and dropping the axe stepped back as S hovered towards him. He tried to block S, pushing him away. Hovering ominously S did not stop, even burning through the trollge's hand when he tried to block him.

S grabbed the collar, gently pulling it to the back of Smiler's neck. "Don't do it!" He shouted. The collar shocked S, the volts feeling in his core. While he felt it in his circuits he was simply too pissed to care. It shocked Smiler too, the being screaming in agony as the collar's defense system activated. With one iron grip, S crushed the collar, the apparatus exploding around them .

S lurched, the explosion blowing him back. Smiler was engulfed a plume of smoke, the being choking and coughing. Smiler took the brunt of the explosion, ripping him in two, albeit burnt. He blinked slightly, skin starting to turn translucent.

His face reformed into the first look again, spherical and 'normal' and his eyes no longer a white void and skin white. The axe lay smashed to the side. Human in appearance, he took on a depressed expression.

S got up, ready to destroy what was left of Smiler.

"Y-you saved me." Smiler muttered; unaware he was in pieces.

"...Pathetic." S said, raising a hand and readying a final energy blast.

Though he hadn't paid much attention to Nikku this time was different. He looked up at Nikku a way off. The alien, though hear beating from the missed attack, wasn't sure what to make of the battle.

Now Playing...

Artist: Seki Takashi

Song: Vacant Lot

Link: https://youtu.be/lAh1D50bY60

"H-honey. I'm so sorry." Smiler croaked. Though struggling to move, it started to slowly crawl towards her.

S lowered his hand.Too easy, He thought. He landed on the ground, ready to stomp the monster's face in.

"I-I don't know who you are." Nikku said, thoroughly creeped out.

Nikusa had completely stopped paying attention to the fight, again fiddling with the controls to the monitors.

"It's me. Y-your daddy-" S putting a metallic foot on Smiler to stop.

"S, go help Nikusa and complete your objective. Nikku listen to me." Displo said. "Go up to the creature and play along."

S shook his head, knowing full well this was a bad idea. He didn't appreciate Displo trying to cut in on his action either. He let go of Smiler and flew up, keeping an eye on them in case Smiler tried to pull anything. S understood that in his current form, Smiler didn't have the energy to fight back.

"W-what?" Nikku asked.

"Trust me. I know this being. He will not be violent towards you anymore, especially since he believes you his daughter." Displo said.

"D-didn't he just try to kill me?"

"That was off a psychotic break. His is too damaged to kill you right now. When trollges turn translucent it is a sign of dying."

Nikku didn't reply, finding Smiler's current, ruined appearance unsettling.

"Nikku, please. If the Family is in possession of a trollge this can cause serious repercussions for us." Updike spoke up through the link. His voice muffled by the sound of a boat, barely audible to Nikku.

Nikku gulped, slowly going up to the creature and putting on Pompom's voice, hoping it sounded close enough to a 'daughter'.

"Daddy?"

"Y-you rem-ember me?"

"I, I do." Nikku said, more disturbed than anything. She tried to hide it, unsure if Smiler could tell.

"Thank you. You, you've grown so much."

S hovered nearby, disgusted by the scene. Holding his torn arm he tried to pluck it back into the socket, keeping an eye on Smiler in case he tried anything.

"Honey, I'm sorry for what I've done. I just couldn't-" Smiler's voice grew distorted as it started to fade.

"Ask what happened." Displo spoke up, reminding Nikku this was not a sad moment.

"What happened to you?"

"I..." Smiler stopped just short of Nikku. He had left half his body behind and lacked the energy to keep crawling. "It's nothing for little girls to worry about." It rose a hand, trying to touch Nikku.

Feeling sentimental, Nikku got a little closer and put a hand on Smiler's. Though he wasn't strong enough, Smiler held it. He looked up at her, trying his best to smile.

"I'm a big girl now." Nikku said. "You can tell me."

"S-so you are....They locked us up. We got free, and they locked us up again. Honey. Get away from this place. Your mom. J-just find her, you you you need to get to her. Get away from this place. What they did it to us..." Smiler stopped.

"I will."

"From the bottom of my soul, I need to say... Thank you my baby. Don't...become...like...me." Smiler started to flicker rapidly as if he were fading into nothing.

"No, no no." S said, returning to the scene. "You're just gonna vanish after that. You cut my arm off! Now you're just gonna abandon your 'daughter'? You're weak." S spat.

Smiler didn't respond, eyes locked on Nikku.

"Oh so you're just gonna vanish like that? At least make yourself useful!" S said, ranting now.

The flickering slowed. "M-maybe y-you're right."

"I AM RIGHT. Now get up!"

"S, what are you doing?! Leave him be. A trollge is a lost spirit. Let him rest."

"No screw that. He cut my arm off! This world may be grim, but he doesn't get a pass for it!"

Displo grumbled. He didn't care about Smiler. He just wanted to see what a trollge ascending looked like. From the files he read it was supposedly a beautiful event.

Finding energy, Smiler crawled back to his lower half, the two connecting. He struggled to get up but look as determined as ever. "Honey. I am going to end this." Smiler said, his trollge appearance still apparent. "I won't let the voices win anymore."

"O-okay." Nikku said still unsure.

"Wait!" Displo shouted through S.

"Tell us what happened. How did you end up here?"

"We really gotta go through the questions?" S asked.

"Yes we do. This is imperative. You may not think these creatures-"

"Okay, I get it, geez-"

"No S. You don't understa-"

To Smiler, it looked as if S was arguing with himself. As they bickered he spoke to Nikku.

"They brought us here. Many of us. F-from that dark place. They made me build this." Smiler motioned to the centre.

"Who did?"

"I-I don't know their names. There was one he was..." Smiler stopped, unable to continue.

"There were others?"

"L-like me. Honey stay away from them. Most are gone. Faded. There are only three of us left." His voice sounded distorted, constantly struggling to speak. While still seriously injured he at least appeared at peace. "Honey. I will take care of the bad men. Stay here. Mom will come for you."

"I will."

Smiler smiled. Not a distorted, twisted grin, but a fatherly one. One final glance at Nikku he turned, picked up his axe and clutching his stomach walked out of the mailroom, a limp in his step.

With only more questions than answered she watched as Smiler left, dragging the axe behind him.

"Where did he go!?" Displo shouted through S.

"He, uh, left."

"What?!" Displo sighed. "What did he say?" He demanded. As Nikku relayed his final message, S just paid half-attention.

"Should we go after him?" Nikusa asked, only vaguely paying attention to the scene.

"No. I don't wanna be near him. Just what the hell was that anyways?" S asked after Nikku explained.

"I already said. A trollge. It would have ascended and found peace, but someone had to interfere."

"Yeah whatever. It doesn't get the easy way out."

Displo looked over the situation. With a trollge wandering the base, especially one that might have been imprisoned could spell disaster. It gets spotted, and they'll be asking the mailroom what the hell happened. Displo instantly thought of the plan. Play dumb. Smiler officially got out via the storage room exit, destroyed the collar himself. As soon as he's spotted and someone raises and alarm, Nikku as Mommy orders guards to apprehend him. Once Team Haskell destroys the gate and if Smiler hasn't been detected yet, Smiler's escape will be attributed to the explosion. Displo relayed the message, making sure Team Lisp knew what was at stake now.

"S, keep tabs on Smiler. You know what to do."

"Fine, whatever. Guess I'm a babysitter now."

"What would have happened if it ascended?" Nikku asked.

"It would have vanished. He wouldn't need to exist anymore. You would have freed the soul."

"So there's others? Are we gonna be able to deal with them?" Tess asked, also finding the scene disturbing. She stopped paying attention earlier to help Solazar, though mostly a result of not wanting to see the violence.

"Unlikely. Don't underestimate them. As to what that being was, or how he got there, it appears the theory that Family may have had a hand in the fall of the TCF is true. I'm combing through old IRIS documents right now." Displo said.

"So we have to worry about some new, creatures...thing?" You ask through the comlink, the sound of a car muffling you.

"I wouldn't worry too much. They don't seem that much of a threat." Solazar said.

"It depends. Case files here indicate there are only three more trollges remaining unsolved. Two of which if encountered should be trivial. The other two not so much."

"A-are there any in the water?" Kapi asked through teeth chattering in his end.

"I don't-"

"It's possible but stop worrying. I can take them." Updike said, cutting off Solazar.

Nikku had been silently listening but one thing did bother her, even if she herself didn't believe it.

"Was that...that my dad?"

"Absolutely not." Both Solazar, Updike and Displo claimed in unison. "Believe me. You'll know if that was your parent." Updike said.

"His daughter is another trollge called Derpina. Though I believe she 'ascended' already." Displo added.

"Pft. Whatever. Nikku. Get over here. Help me re-attach my arm." S asked, snapping Nikku out of that 'mood'.

"R-right." She nodded and made for S.

"And get that paint off of you, don't need that stupid disguise anymore."

"Mhm. Sure!"

With the mailroom secure and time wasted thanks to a smiling fellow, S worked quickly. The schedule of the guard's patrols was sent, magic repeaters set up, the anti-magic forcefield disabled quietly and backups and logs destroyed. With the mailroom secure the next team would be on the scene.

As S scanned the surrounding networks he found something odd. It stuck right out, after all he was familiar with that number. Opening a private conversation with Displo he sent it to him. "Yo Tinman, get a look at this."

"My goodness." Displo replied.

"Should we tell-"

"No. We must absolutely not let anyone know. Keep it quiet for now."

Displo mused over the console. The next team up was Haskell. Whitty, Carol and Annie.

The Mailroom is secured! All surveillance nullified!

Cauda 03 - Take 'Em to Church

"No. Burn it all down."

Now Playing...

Artist: Store

Song: Ufer

Link: https://youtu.be/RZmG6Tj-SP0

The compound was flanked all on sides but north by roads.

The road that stood on the east stretched towards the cliff, turning into a small lot for sightseeing. The city developed that area as an attraction; to be able to overlook the lake. Of course the Family got a cut, having sold that piece of undeveloped land to them.

Like the west where Team Lisp started, a fence made it abundantly clear where the city's piece ended, and the Family's began. Plenty of no trespassing signs lined it.

Trespassers will be shot.

This section of the property was closest to the barracks and kennel where the demon guards and their hellhounds hung out. Every once in a while, some 'brave' soul would go missing there, cops believing the person may have just 'slipped' off the cliff. Simply put, the barracks were the most dangerous place nearby, an unknown amount of demons hiding there.

And the hellgate hung in that same quarter.

On the floor plan the hellgate was located within a church. Closest to the cliff and the most isolated, it stood practically overlooking the lake. To the west and a bit of a walk was the mailroom and storage. To the east: barracks and kennels. With the Family's manor to the south, it was also the best defended.

Next to the sightseeing area was a small parking lot to a plaza, various small shops set up to gouge money from tourists. Long shut down and the cameras compromised, Annie saw no issue smashing right through the red and white mechanical arm.

Any warnings it would have given off were silenced, per S' rule.

Nobody in the passenger seat, Annie sat alone as she pulled into the lot, adjusting the car for an easy getaway. In the backseat were Whitty and Carol, the 'demolition' experts.

Together the three formed Team Haskell. And they were next up.

The rain ceased, a deep fog now hovering over the property. It added in an element of stealth, the only downside a lower ambient temperature.

"You could have parked better." Carol muttered as she unbuckled her belt. Annie had parked in 4 spots.

"Nobody cares." Annie said, getting out.

Whitty took a deep breath. While Team Lisp was nothing but a merry band of aliens, hellbent on causing as much bloodshed as possible, Haskell was much less unified. Annie and Carol did not like each other. On the surface it stemmed from Annie's complete disregard for rules versus Carol's air of angelic harmony. That's what Updike claimed. Whitty knew better. It all started because Carol stuck up and continued to defend Girlfriend, something Annie considered amoral. This left Whitty stuck as the sole mediator, even if he was always forced to take Carol's side. And he couldn't complain to anyone about it. The moment he spoke up he knew Updike would chime in about how if he has a problem he's fit to leave. He told Kapi, though there wasn't much he could do. He barely knew Annie.

Stepping out of the car, Carol put up her hood, as did Whitty. Annie did no such thing except adjust her friend's hat. While the former planned for stealth, it mattered little to Annie. To her this was war, not some 'heist'.

Much as you tried to hammer it in to her you could not rid her of her 'kamikaze' attitude.

Seeing the compound fence a distance away they began walking. The team did not get far until a banging from the trunk stopped them.

"What the hell." Annie said outloud. She pulled out her fob and popped the trunk remotely.

No sooner did the banging stop than did someone push open the trunk. "Thanks! It was getting stuffy in there! Oh. Wow. It's soooo ominous out here!" Pompom said, delighted, looking around in amazement.

Annie sighed, no proper response for the stowaway.

"Pomona! What are you doing here?" Carol asked, running up to her. "You're not supposed to be here! It's just us. You know how dangerous..." Carol had begun to lecture her.

Whitty put on his comlink. "Uh, we got a problem here. Pompom, that magic girl is her-"

"POMONA CARROT!" Tess shouted through the comlink, sounding like her mother. She immediately found the parking lot camera, seeing that indeed Pompom had arrived. "You get right back here this instant!"

Pompom kept her comlink off, looking to Carol to back her up. Carol shook her head, motioning to put it on.

Turning her comlink on, Pompom responded aggravated. "I'm sorry but it's no fair! Why do I have to be on the stupid getaway team? I want to help! And I can!"

"And you will. Pomona you realize what you've done?! We can't just bring them out. You. You wait in the car till the-"

"No! I Want to help! It's not fair! This team always do this to me! Last two missions I didn't do SQUAT!" She pouted.

Tess shot a glare at Rosie and Radi, the two other members of Pompom's team. Radi shrugged. "She said she was going to the washroom."

"Hmph."

Tess looked to Solazar and turned off her comlink. "She's gotta teleport back here. Or-or at least someone's gotta bring her back!"

"I wouldn't advise that." Solazar said.

"Why not?"

"Because we are about to have multiple teams advance. Teams Python and Zig are set to arrive soon as well. We can't have too many people out. We need all the COs."

Tess looked to Displo. He shrugged. As far as he was concerned this was on them. He was busy walking S through hacking and provisioning the systems correctly.

"Solazar. I can't let this stand. She can get hurt out there! Amelia will kill us if anything happens to her!"

"I understand. Both my sons are there right now. I've seen Pomona during our training. She is capable, so long as she sticks close to Carol."

Tess shook her head. This was nothing but a complete betrayal of the operation. "How is she gonna cast the spell then?"

"I can do it just fine here!" Pompom shoot back. "It will be even more powerful if I'm with all the repeaters!"

"Oh right." Annie muttered. She had to set up the magic repeater.

"If anything happens I will get there in mach speed. It will turn the operation into a warzone but to save her we won't have many options." Solazar said, speaking up.

"I could take her after." S spoke up. Though the comlink remained off he could still hear everything just fine. "She'll be safe with me and the Niks'. With her magic and my skills we'll be unstoppable."

Tess sighed. She feared Amelia and didn't want to betray her trust. And though Pompom was allowed to be on her own, Tess started to care for her more during training. Inadvertently she became her guardian and while Pompom didn't see it that way, Tess believed herself into that mood. And now that she'd lost control of Pompom, Tess felt terrible.

And, now realizing she misunderstood the whole relationship, called Amelia. It was her call. Solazar didn't object to the call, nor did Displo. If this meant Pompom was out of the operation they would have to deal with it. She wasn't the only magic user anyways.

Amelia was understandably upset. Not so much at the COs but Pompom specifically. She had some harsh words for Solazar, Displo and Tess for immediately fumbling the ball. Though, after some back and forth between Pomona and Amelia they came to an agreement.

"Pompom when did you decide to sneak into Annie's car?" Amelia asked.

"As soon as I saw Annie's car. When they left." Amelia sighed. That was something Pompom would do.

"Alright Pompom. You're in. You help that team for now. But we are going to have stern talking after this! You could have ruined the whole operation!" Amelia said through her phone.

"OH THANK YOU MOM! THANKYOUTHANKYOUthankyouthank-"

"Keep it down." Annie growled.

"Carol. Keep watch of her. After the gate's destroyed, she is to get to the mailroom. You got that Pompom?"

"Understood mom! I won't let you down."

With a hang up, Tess sighed. She couldn't help but worry, hoping Annie's team would be successful.

Not caring about the addition of a new member, Annie took lead.

Moving in silence they made it to the street, the compound and fence just across. Traffic was non-existent, nary a car around they could see. Not that anyone would've parked close; Rosie's intel found that the regularly checked all nearby parked cars for spies.

While cameras spotted them instantly nothing occurred. In the mailroom, Nikusa watched, Nikku close by to command. They could see the locations of all active patrols. As he fiddled with his arm, S projected a dot as to where he saw Whitty's team move.

Annie crossed the street, not paying mind to a patrol nearby. "Hold on." Carol said. "We gotta be discreet."

"Don't mind me. I'll be as quiet as a racoon!" Pompom said, combining whispering and shouting.

"Why? We have the cameras." Annie mused.

"There's still the patrols."

"So what? We kill, deal with whatever the hell is left."

"You'd like that wouldn't you. Have the whole army after us." Carol retorted. "Whitty you got a ruling?"

"Course you ask him. He's your boyfriend."

Whitty groaned. Practicing with this team was a challenge. It always seemed like Annie and Carol were going at it, more than a few times having put up to Whitty to make a final decision.

He only worried how adding Pompom to the mix could tip things.

"Ask her." Annie said, pointing to Pompom. She wasn't sure whose side to take. "Be stealthy of violent?"

"We should be stealthy." Pompom replied.

"That's right." Whitty added. "Save the anger for later. It's cold out here."

"Hmph."

"Fine."

As Carol and Whitty took charge, Pompom stayed close to Annie. In all the practice she hadn't really gotten to know her, the two not hanging or speaking sans her introduction. "I'm sure they'll be plenty of time for killing later." Pompom said encouragingly.

"Damn straight there will be." Annie whispered to Pompom.

Though the fog obstructed some of their sight it did little for the demons. They could sense Carol's holiness just by being close. The teamed needed S to help, which he did by telling the four when and where to go.

Climbing the fence was easy, Whitty and Carol stealthily hoisting themselves over. Pompom intended to do the same thing if Annie didn't just grab the bars and force them apart. "Oh, I guess that works too." She said.

Crouching next to a tree the team waited. Carol looked out, trying to see herself where the patrols where. Her eyes glowed briefly as she scanned. S determined the best spot to hide was the barrack walls. So long as they stayed under the windows they would not be seen.

"I see a few patrols nearby. Let's go around, avoid the kennel's yard and go for the gate." Carol said.

She put through her comlink. "Can you direct patrols away?"

"Nope." Nikusa said. "It'll look too suspicious. If anything we should increase patrols."

Carol shook her head. While dealing with Annie was tough, Nikusa was a whole other creature. Her lack of morals was still incomprehensible to Carol. Not to mention, like S, Nikusa had a habit trying to bait Carol.

"Whatever." Carol said as they made for the barrack walls.

Just standing close they could feel heat emanating off it though wooden walls. A long building, it had windows lining the entire wall so demons could look out. Each bunk had a window and from the bright glow inside most were still up. As they ducked underneath, they froze, seeing a shadow walk up to it and look out.

Annie listened closely, hearing raucous laughter and movement within. The demons were having a good time. Pompom considered looking in to see what the fuss was, but Annie stopped her.

Hearing some movement behind them Whitty turned back. There, a patrol had uncovered Annie's 'work' and were investigating the massive hole in the fence.

"Which one of you idiots smashed the fence up?" Nikusa asked. "Got all sorts of people talking about a potential break-in." From the line, they could hear Nikku shouting at people in Mommy's voice, no doubt being coached by S.

Carol shot Annie a glare who just shrugged. They continued moving in silence, making their way north, towards the cliff. A road connected the barracks and church they followed. Once in sight they made for it. Streetlamps lined the sides, providing cones of light. In the heavy fog it dimmed them but still provided enough coverage.

Carol kept her hand out, ready to start casting magic if need be.

Based on the documents the hellgate's building was just ahead. They hadn't figured out why they hid it in a church, or why they even needed to hide it anyways. Hellgates were not illegal.

In the fog they could see the cross-shaped building, made of plaster and stone, stain glass windows lining the side, a crooked cross atop it.

Lights in the church remained on, shining bright out the windows. Plants and shrubs surrounded its sides, a variety of plants all carefully cared for a trimmed covered the small ditch next to the church.

"F'kin gross." Carol muttered as she looked at the plants. She reached out to one group of white flowers and ripped them, tossing them on the ground. "Huh?" Pompom asked.

"Nothing."

"Wha, you don't like flowers?"

"These are hemlock plants, and those are deathcap mushrooms. They look good but are deadly. This is some kind of sick joke to them." Carol spat, taking the plants as a sign of offence.

From afar in the fog, lights appeared, bright and straight on they moved towards the group. With how steady they moved; the team could instantly tell their source. Car lights. The sound of an engine trudging along should have also made it clear but alas, they were too pre-occupied with flowers.

"Hide!" Nikku shouted through the comlink.

Carol and Whitty quickly dove into the bushes, ducking down. Annie likewise too, grabbing Pompom before she could say anything. Just grabbing the farmer girl, Annie landed on top of Pompom, shushing her.

"...and so I told him to shove it!" A gruff voice said out loud. A roar of laughter followed.

Annie watched as a golf cart started to drive by. She knew the voice, as did Carol and Whitty. It was Daddy Dearest. "Anyway. It can be ready for deployment within an hour. Think about that." The cart slowed down. "Won't even need a full army-huh?" Daddy pulled it to a stop. "Smells angelic here."

"Well that was a church we just visited." A weak voice said.

"No you fool. I mean out here."

"I wasn't aware you could even smell angels." A third voice mused.

"It smells like burning plastic and sulphur. Believe me. I got a good nose. Smells familiar to. I know this scent."

"Heh, that's really specific."

"There's this one angel my daughter's friends with. Horrible. Like the damn bastard is trying to appear oh so..." Daddy trailed off.

Still stomach-down on the mud, Carol raised her hand, ready to cast a bolt. She had a rough line of sight to Daddy. But before she could cast, Whitty smacked her hand down, glaring at her all the same.

Annie too, witnessed the motion, eyes wide that Carol would try something to so bold.

Whatever Daddy said wasn't heard as he started to drive off, figuring the scent irrelevant.

"Ah, it's probably nothing." He said with a loud voice.

The four waited, or rather, three waited. Pompom couldn't move, smothered under Annie. Once they couldn't hear the cart anymore they got up, brushing themselves off. Annie helped Pompom up, sheepishly apologizing to her.

The ground had been softened by the rain, most dirt turning to mud. Once Pompom got her breath back, she immediately got to work casting magic and water to clean herself up. "My dress is ruined." She pouted.

"And I thought I was the suicidal one." Annie joked.

"Yeah, what the hell was that?!" Whitty shot at Carol.

"I could've taken him out right there!" She said back, raising her voice. "And why didn't you guys see it? S? Nikku/sa?"

"I didn't see it." S shrugged from the mailroom. He'd finished re-attaching his arm.

"Yeah, we're kind of swamped with-" Nikku started by Nikusa finished. "-some MORON smashing through the fence!"

It was a lie. Nikku turned back to see S and Nikusa in some kind of conversation, Nikusa having taken the storage racks and formed it into some makeshift hill. She sat upon it like a queen.

Nikku had a headache.

The three looked to Annie. "Whatever, sue me."

"Can you guys just pay attention. Please?" Carol asked, calming down.

"Fine, fine." S replied, bored.

"Let's hurry this up." Whitty said, clearing his throat. "I don't like it here."

Up close to the church now they got a better look at it. The plaster walls had chips in them, black stains present. Pompom hoped that wasn't blood on some of the rocks. A few tiles from the roof lay upon the ground. The church was in rough shape.

As they came around to the front they were greeted by a large set of stairs that led up to massive oak doors. The stairs were chiseled, erosion having not been kind to them. Though the entrance remained empty, a dark sliver of light could be seen through doors.

A single camera hung from the archway, looking directly at them.

"You don't think they got someone else watching the cams do you?" Annie asked through the comlink.

"Nada. I blocked all connections. Plus I didn't see anything when I went inside." S replied, watching them through the camera.

Solazar piped up. "If someone else were watching, that someone would have intervened already."

"Oh, and guys hurry up. I see a patrol approaching you guys from the east, kennels. They got hellhounds too." S added.

"All the reason I need." Annie said, stomping up the stairs.

"Hold on." Carol said, looking deep at the doors. "I sense something evil in there."

"Yeah no shit, there's a portal to hell in there."

"No you dumbass, like a person, guard."

Whitty looked at the bottom of the door. What should have been a straight line was broken up by two pairs of squares. "Yeah, looks like there's people standing right at it."

"Well I can't see the interior of the church. If you guys are so worried, find another way in." S said.

"Oo, I know!" Pompom declared. "Over here!" She got down off the steps and walked back to the side. Reluctantly, they followed.

Back at the side of the church Pompom pushed a bunch of shrubs out of the way, hiding a window to the church's basement. Pomona peered inside. No lights were on but the moonlight from outside provided some sight. The others huddled around it.

A simple window, no locking mechanism and one swift push later, Annie ripped it open. Of course, before she could, they had to wait for the patrol to pass, again ducking the mud. This time, Annie made sure to give Pompom room. The hellhounds walked past them, noticing something angelic. This would have been an issue if they weren't already used to Carol. They continued.

Once gone the team looked inside. The window led to a cellar, the musty scent already permeating out the open window. As they looked not a soul could be seen.

"You sure you can fit in there?" Whitty asked nonchalantly.

"The hell did you just say?" Annie said, getting back up, staring daggers at Whitty. He rose his hands in defence. "Hey, whoa I didn't mean it like that."

A smirk appeared on Annie's face. She raised her arm and flexed, also using her hand to outline the definition. "This is all muscle. I can easily bench you bomb head. Course I can fit in."

Carol said nothing, instead looking around inside for any traps or sensors. "Yeah. I think this'll work."

"Awesome! Can I go in first?" Pompom said, almost pushing Carol out of the way. "No way. I'll go first." Carol said, grabbing a hold of the window's frame and letting herself in. Whitty followed, trying to avoid Annie's death gaze.

Pompom waited for Annie to go in next, but she didn't. Annie just shrugged. "After you."

Landing in the dark cellar, Carol cast a spell, a will-o-wisp appearing next to her. Like a personal lantern it lit the surrounding area.

"Woah! That's so cool. How did you do that?" Pomona beamed, following the wisp as it circled Carol.

"Holy magic. I'll show ya some time." Carol said smugly.

Annie entered in last, landing with a thump upon the cobblestone floor.

The cellar looked nothing like a Carol would have expected it. Cobblestone walls and floors, wooden frames holding up the room and rows of wooden racks with wine kegs upon them. Not only did it look nothing like a church basement, but it looked more like the basement of a medieval inn.

A few barrels sat in the back side of the room, various labels on them, containing preserves.

The only indication they were even in modern times were the fluorescent lights on the ceiling that remained off. Carol saw the staircase at the end of the room, leading up to the church entrance.

Pompom followed Carol as she looked around for any indication of a hellgate, still enamoured by the wisp. Annie started looking at the kegs, inspecting their strength and measure. It got her curious.

"Any way you can get the guards away from the door?" Whitty asked through the comlink. He stayed by the window, finding the cellar far cooler than outside.

"I'll take a look." Nikku said.

"I wonder if we slowly call each patrol one by one and take 'em out." Nikusa wondered aloud. "That's a good idea." S said hungrily. "We can see who kills more."

"Mhm. I like that."

The two continued discussing the best ways of killing, Nikku concluding her message on the comlink. "Uh. Just find your own way right now. I'll tell you if anything changes."

Dust and cobwebs covered the kegs, a dry alcoholic scent hovered around them as well.

Annie found herself more interested by the kegs. Checking the nozzle she turned the handle, a stream of dark liquid pouring out. The nozzle was rusted but it did little to stop Annie's strength.

She cupped the liquid and drank. "Bitter. But not bad." She started up a comlink to Rosie. "You know if the Family brews their own booze?"

"Maybe? Check the label."

Annie did so and wiping off the dust revealed a name emblazoned on it. 'FEVER INDUSTRIES'.

"Well damn. Might have to come take a few of these."

Now Playing...

Artist: Bull of Heaven

Song: The Moss of the Earth

Link: https://youtu.be/E7748bFE6z8

"Hey, A.A., can you get over here?" Carol said to Annie. She stopped drinking the wine and joined the group by the exit. A set of grated stairs led directly up to an iron door. Like the front one light emanated from it.

"Any ideas?" Carol asked.

"Yeah, let's go and blow this joint."

"Stop being so crass, geez. We should at least check first."

"Oh! I'll go." Pompom said.

"No. I'll check." Holding the railing, Whitty climbed the stairs, taking caution to make little sound in case the stairs creaked. Checking the crack of the door, Whitty looked. He saw two guards standing at the door waiting. Demonic guards, wearing the same black suit and sunglasses as the others encountered. As Carol watched Whitty, he motioned that two guards were present.

Couldn't see from that angle but he could hear talking within the church, indicating at least two other present.

Taking a step back, the stair creaked. Loud enough the guards could hear it he watched as the shadows moved. They turned, curious as to what lurked the basement.

Whitty slid down the rail, getting to the bottom asap. "We gotta take these dudes out."

"Alright. Carol, Pompom, get out the way. Whitty you take the left side, I'll take the right."

Whitty nodded and hid just beside the bottom of the stairs. Annie took the opposing side. Looking down all one would see was light from Carol's wisp within the basement somewhere.

The door opened, a flash of light emerging from it. "Who's there?" One of the demons said. Unseen, Whitty, and Annie prepared to grab them as soon as they came down.

"Huh. Guess it's nothing." The guard holding the flashlight turned, ready to leave.

Annie picked up a pebble on the ground and whipped it at the kegs, making a loud clinking sound.

"Huh, what was that?" The guard turned back and stopped. Neither stepped down, just continually staring down the stairway, waiting for movement. Everyone stood still for a minute, waiting for someone to show. Annie started to get annoyed, thinking that if it were her position she would have come down already.

"Huh. Guess it's nothing."

"Damnit, just come down here!" Annie shouted. She ignored the facepalms from Whitty and Carol, but it worked.

"What was that?" They heard the demons stepping closer, walking down the stairs. Carol just sighed, realizing herself she has vastly overestimated their intelligence. Pompom too would see them less a threat, had Zardy not warned her beforehand about their intellect.

They came down the stairs together, side-by-side. Just as they stepped out into the basement, Annie and Whitty grabbed each one, silencing them in their own ways. Carol tried to shield Pompom from the violence, but she just shrugged. "It's fine. I've seen worse on my farm. You should meet Zardy one day. He's really nice." Pompom said as Carol tried to cover her eyes.

"He's not..a demon is he?"

"Yep!"

"Ugh." Carol let go, disgusted with herself.

"C'mon!" Annie said, disposing of the now slain demons. She led, the others following her as they left the basement. Annie peered out, checking for any signs of life. "Coast is clear."

Unlike the basement, the church had proper lighting. Carol looked around, less looking for the hellgate, and rather how the Family had defiled the church: Stain glass lined the walls with nondescript figures drawn on them, pews arranged incorrectly, some facing the wrong way and the front door had a chain and lock on it from the inside. The altar was crooked and the tabernacle in the wrong spot.

An uncanny church. She realized that while it meant to look like a church it failed in every aspect, intentionally done. She shivered, disgusted at the mockery. "Whitty, we're blowing this whole place to hell. Alright?"

The place at least appeared empty; whomever Whitty caught speaking wasn't around anymore.

"We just need to get the gate though."

"No. Burn it all down."

"Sounds like a plan." Annie said with a grin. "So where's this stupid gate anyways?"

They had seen possible renditions of the gate on MALLEUS. A massive circular object, bright red with spikes coming out of it. The designs they'd all seen made it impossible to miss. And in a church they figured it should have been easily seen.

"I can sense a demonic presence nearby, but I don't see the gate."

"So here the hell is it?" Annie asked impatiently. While they looked around, Pompom took a seat in a pew. She too, noticed something strange about the church. The same thing Carol had seen, though Pompom couldn't put it to words.

As Annie walked by she saw fit to ask her something. "Annie. How strong are you?"

"Ha!" She laughed. "How strong am I? Kid. Sit still. Watch this."

Annie bent down and grabbed ahold of the pew, easily ripping it out of its foundations. With Pompom still seated, Annie lifted it up. Pompom slid down, adjusting to not fall off. "Wow! That's so cool!" Annie held it straight up, holding it up by the armrest. Had the ceiling not been so high, she might have hit it.

"No. That's it." Whitty said aloud, mesmerized. He had been staring at the end of the church for a minute now, mind slowly working at something.

"Look." He pointed to the altar and far end of he church. From atop the archways several paintings hung up. All depicting some kind of pseudo-Christian imagery both sides each had the same types of painting. Just enough to form an arc. Further down the walls appeared curved slightly, going all the way to bottom.

"See what?" Annie asked as Pompom jumped off the pew.

Further down to the bottom were pillars, though straight they didn't appear to be holding up anything. Looking down and a bit closer, they could see the directly underneath the paintings on the floor, the carpet split into glass. From the straight-on angle it was hard to see.

"The frickin-the whole damn thing is the gate." Whitty said. He used his finger to motion around circle around it. Everyone emitted a collective "Oooo."

"Sweet find." Annie tossed up the pew, catching it easily with her other hand. She reeled it back, ready to aim it at the left paintings. "Wait! Let me set it on fire!" Pompom exclaimed. "Damn kid. I'm likin' you more by the second. Go ahead."

"Yeah. This'll be easy." Whitty said, getting himself ready.

"Excuse me!" A new voice declared.

Everyone froze, starring to the back of the church. Behind the altar was a wall. Separate from the church's back wall, it allowed for the priest to disappear behind it after a mass. Now too was it used as someone emerged from it. Or rather, barely hid behind it.

Standing at full height, a black crown could be seen standing behind the wall as the speaker walked. As they stepped into the church proper, everyone could see them. Now visible, a very, very tall nun stepped onto the scene.

She wore all black: nunnery, veil, dress, and shoes. Only the tops of her dress and veil were different colours, the dress a dark grey and a white-beaded rosary hanging from her neck. The veil was a creamy-white with a small black cross in the centre.

The first thing Whitty noticed was her species. The nun wasn't human or anthro. She had a round face, a ghostly white colour with two large eye sockets. But in those eye sockets no eye could be found. Instead, two tiny lines in the bottom left corners of her eyes moved around, indicating those were actually her eyes. No nose either, instead, just a flat face.

Whitty shivered at it, finding the appearance rather disturbing.

Carol's first thought was that this nun was related to Nikku somehow. Or at least the same species.

She stood at Nikusa's height, though, as Pompom looked she guess she might have been a little taller. Not as wide as Nikusa, the nun appeared a bit thinner. She did not walk with any piety, instead just swaying back and forth to the centre. She walked with one hand out, the other arm hidden behind her back.

All was silent as she stepped to the altar, easily dwarfing the thing.

They weren't sure what to do.

"This is my church." The nun said quietly. She had an open smile on, that made it look as if she were singing. And though it moved as she spoke, it returned to that same, confused smile. It further disturbed Whitty.

"Hm. Well you know there's a hellgate in here right? Demons all over the place?" Carol asked, unsure whether this nun a friend or foe.

"What is a hellgate?"

"Well pal, if you don't even know what that is, you sure this even your church?" Annie asked.

"..." The nun didn't respond, just staring at Annie.

"What's your name?" Pompom asked.

"Taki."

"Well, can you help us destroy the gate?" Carol asked, still a little unsure.

"No. Mommy said no."

"Mommy?" Pompom asked. "Isn't that-"

"Oh no." Whitty said.

Out from the backroom emerged her.

A raucous and luscious mane of mahogany red hair. It covered purple skin, ears still visible and holding golden hoop earrings. Her eyes shone black and red, lines if the viewer had astigmatism. She smiled, red lipstick glistening under the church lights.

She wore the same black jean jacket she wore on the night Displo died: open showing a red dress stopping at her knee-high boots. She tapped her hand, sharp red fingernails at her side in anticipation.

Nikku may have disguised as her earlier but there was no doubt in their minds. This was the real Mommy Meanest. Dwarfed by Taki she put a hand on the nun's back.

"So you're the rats that been scurrying around."

Whitty, Carol, and Annie froze. While Pompom may not have been familiar enough they had all seen her before, and her appearance spelled disaster.

Too did Tess, Solazar and Displo hear her. They all tensed up, as if her appearance itself spelled the end.

Though nobody explicitly named her, Annie said all that was needed.

"If it isn't the queen bitch."

Mommy laughed. She was the matriarch of the family, and she meant business.

Cauda 04 - The Nun and the Sinner Lady

"Ready to go ballistic?"

Now Playing...

Artist: E-Sagglia

Song: Vital

Link: https://youtu.be/nXeW84HZGXw

Mommy took a step forward, entering the aisle, pews on either side. She had a villainous look on her face, practically salivating at the thought of murder.

Annie, likewise, saw red.

"ERRAAAGH!" Annie screamed, throwing the pew with all her strength towards Mommy. She didn't move, expecting the next action instead.

Taki, with lightning speed drew her hidden hand, revealing an oversized black and yellow chainsaw. With one swift move she stepped in front of Mommy and slashed the chainsaw through the pew, the two halves careening behind them. All the while Taki retained that sick mouth-open smile.

"Thank you Taki." Mommy said. "You know she's quite capable. She just happened upon this church when it was built. Since then," Mommy shrugged, "Defends this place like no tomorrow. I'm not gonna complain." She let out a predatorial grin. Mommy and Taki walked forward, ready to strike.

Annie wanted blood. But she also knew Carol and Whitty would fare better. She took charge. "You and Whitty take the mother. The kid and I will handle this hag." Annie spat, eyes narrowing. Much as she wanted a go at Mommy she also knew Carol and Whitty would fare better, not to mention their shared 'history'.

"Got it." Carol said, focusing on Mommy. "You ready hun?"

"Always." Whitty replied.

Annie grabbed Pompom and ran into the pews. Taki remained focused on Carol and Whitty, raising her chainsaw. It didn't take much to change focus. Annie ripped a piece off the pew and chucked it at Taki, the piece bouncing off her head.

"Over here you bitch!" Annie spat.

It got her attention and turned, entering another row, walking slowly and wielding the chainsaw. It let out of a whirr as she held it.

"Taki." Updike said through the comlink. "Is she an abomination?"

"Yea?"

"Fascinating! See if you can subdue her. For capture."

"No way am I getting hacked to bits for your science project!" Annie said.

"Indeed. No captures this time. It is not worth it." Displo added.

Stepping onto the pew, Taki jumped up and lunged for them. Annie dove, again grabbing Pompom out of the way.

"Darnit! I was just about to use a spell." Pompom said, getting up.

With the same expression Taki lifted up the chainsaw and, now in the same row, started stalking towards them.

Seeing Taki fall for the bait, Mommy returned her attention to Carol and Whitty.

"An angel and a bomb. What a weird duo." She laughed, looking them up and down.

Whitty's hands lit up, flames burning around them. He cracked his fists, sparks flying as he did.

"Ooo, you got your own handwarmers~. Cute. Lotta use they'll do with broken fingers."

Carol too, got ready. White wings burst from her back as did a halo which glowed atop her head. Facing down a demon she cared little for hiding any appearances. Her clothing too changed, now an orange dress that ended at her hips, knee-high boots replacing the running shoes.

Looking to Carol she merely continued to smile. "Girlfriend won't be able to protect you now."

"You're gonna pay for what you've done."

"Oohho. Then bring it on." Mommy said, waving them forward.

Carol flew up and Whitty ran forward, hoping to dual-attack Mommy. Not reacting she waited until Carol lunged for her, wings pushing downwards to strike. Mommy continued not to move, instead idling. Just before Carol could smash into Mommy she stopped, changing directions just before Carol could grab her. Mommy swiped at her, Carol dodging perfectly.

Carol and Whitty had long expected this fight. Not exactly with Mommy per se but believed some kind of confrontation would occur. And as such having fakeouts would be necessary.

And while Mommy's attention was on Carol, Whitty ran up, punching into a haymaker, slamming his fist directly into her stomach. Whether or not the added fire did anything left unseen, her clothes did not burn.

She reeled back just as Whitty lurched again, continuing the combo. He hit her with a clothesline. He would have socked her next, but she had predicted it, grabbing his fist and using her free hand to slash. Her nails, sharp as knives, sliced through Whitty's turquoise hoodie and shirt underneath. It pierced his skin, searing pain through his chest, slash marks where those red nails collided. Not a lethal strike but it hurt like hell.

"Shit!"

He stepped back, just as Carol would unleash her barrage. Never let the opponent get time to think. Carol cast her magic, beams of light raining down upon Mommy. And, proving herself a capable caster, Mommy stopped it, a shield of darkness blocking them, protecting her from the holy energy. And while both were talented in magic, Carol also knew that hitting her physically could be just as effective.

Carol flew past, grabbing Mommy's hair and yanking her forward. Mommy on the ground she cast again, a beam of light hitting Mommy. Instead of just taking it, Mommy got up, forcing herself through the blast and grabbed Carol's wrist. Pulling her forward she used her free hand to grab the wing. "Let me show you what I meant to do earlier."

With her might Mommy pulled down, dislocating it. "AAH!" Carol let go of Mommy, as did the demon, Carol crash-landing to the altar.

Taki had become a stereotypical slasher villain, lumbering towards them as they backed up. In an attempt to stop her, Pompom had tried lightning, water, fire, wind, light, dark, practically every element at her exposure. She had even tried to short-circuit the chainsaw. Annie too, chucked all sorts of arrangements at them (just bits of pews and books scattered about).

So far, all Taki had done was take each shot and continuously follow them. They knew she could move fast but she deliberately went slow, as if she were waiting for them to give up.

"Gotta be a weakness somewhere." Annie said, she looked to Pompom and nodded. "We just need a bigger weapon."

Pompom nodded back, understanding. She got up and leapt for the pew to her left, jumping over it. To the right, Annie grabbed the pew and ripped it out of its sockets. She pulled it back, just as Pompom shot a bolt to get Taki's attention.

"Kid! Light me up!" Annie said, smacking the pew against the ground as if it were a baseball bat.

Now actually understanding what Annie meant Pompom grew a mischievous smile as she shot fire at the end of the pew. It lit up, the end burning brightly.

"Thanks kid!" Annie said.

Gripping the pew under her arm, holding it as a ram she charged Taki. "What are you-" Taki had begun to say before the flaming end of a battering-ram-pew smashed into her, carrying her to the wall which exploded in a smouldering mess. In the few seconds Taki flew, she managed to use her chainsaw and at least cut the part of the ram.

The church wall shook, causing a curtain to come loose. In a stroke of luck it put out the flame and covered Taki.

Carol and Whitty didn't notice the nun getting slammed into a wall, both two engrained in their own conflict.

An unfamiliar voice was picked up on the comlink. "Ms. Meanest. Are you all right? Do you require assistance?" Authoritative, those listening in knew it wasn't Daddy.

"No. This battle is mine." She growled.

Whitty got up, and now enraged charged Mommy. He swung with a left, which she caught, then a right which she caught. The next instinct would have been to kick her, but he knew his head was strong. He smashed his against hers, himself barely feeling the impact. He touched his chest instinctively. Oil had begun to flow.

Mommy reeled back, recovering near instantly. Wiping the blood off her nose she chuckled.

"You hit much harder than that angel. Speaking of which, I suppose we could even the playing field."

Fingers in her mouth, she whistled.

"Woah, woah!" S said through the comlink. "You guys get ready. There's two patrols coming for you!"

"Crap."

"Now!" Carol shouted. She jumped upon Mommy, lighting up with magic. Whitty got up and lighting his fists charged Mommy. He jumped, grabbing a hold of her head, his hands lit up. They all landed on top of each other.

A small explosion rocked the area, temporarily blinding Pompom and Annie when they looked.

As it calmed down, Whitty stood holding Carol.

Mommy lay on the ground, smoke emitting from her head. Her hair, still crimson had become speckled with ash, the heat-magic combo burning some loose strands.

"Did we win?" Pompom asked, an earie quiet fell over the church, Taki's chainsaw revving the only other sound.

The doors burst open, two patrols of demons charging in. All still wore the same clothing, expression and stupid sunglasses.

The team turned to them first.

With a slash of the chainsaw the curtain was sliced in half, Taki brushing it aside. Pieces of wood and debris falling from her she got up, dusting herself off. Still wielding the same chainsaw and smile she looked to Annie and Pompom, ready for another go.

The group turned to Taki.

"So annoying. But I gotta admit, your coordination is alright." Mommy said, getting up. Though her hair frizzled, and some makeup melted she looked otherwise fine. She adjusted her shoulder.

Hearts dropping they looked to Mommy, realizing they had done little damage against anyone.

Whitty could feel the cut stinging and feel his undershirt getting stained with oil. He saw Pompom ready her flames, motioning her to stop. "Use something else. No fire." He gritted his teeth.

"Well. You've cost me about 30 minutes now that I gotta redo my hair and makeup. Let's not waste any more time now." Mommy said, adjusting her hair.

The demons behind them started going towards, as did Taki from the side.

"Crap." Pompom said.

I could sacrifice myself. Both Whitty and Carol thought at the same time. Take out the hellgate too... Carol's eyes went wide. "That's it! Whitty. Distract Mommy!"

Now Playing...

Artist: Zipcult

Song: ZZZ / No Name

Link: https://youtu.be/sw8Ih4Maq1g

The demons stopped, awaiting further instruction from Mommy. They knew better than to take Mommy's catch.

Though it dislodged, Carol could still move her wing. It hurt like hell and even though she casted healing on it, just numbed the pain. She jumped up, flying high.

"What are you idiots doing! Get them!" Mommy shouted, annoyed at the demons.

Whitty resumed a boxing stance, facing Mommy again. Fists lighting up, Xs appeared in his eyes. No holding back. Breathing heavily he readied himself.

"Oh? Round two? Let's go then." She took a boxing stance as well. "Are you...bleeding oil? Heh. Guess you really are a bomb."

Whitty lunged forth, preparing to her Mommy with a right hook. She dodged, slinging a left at him. It narrowly missed as he ducked, going for an uppercut. Said uppercut would have hit had Mommy not swung her leg up, smashing her heel into Whitty's chin. He recoiled back, almost biting his tongue.

Mommy moved fast, even before Whitty could get up she jumped forward and stomped her stiletto down. Whitty rolled out of the way, just as her spike smashed onto the ground and through the wood, effectively trapping it.

Eyes full of fury he aimed his fist right at her neck.

Taki got up and started running towards Pompom and Annie, expression the same.

"Ice her chainsaw!" Annie said.

Pompom nodded and casted ice. Whether or not Taki could've reacted to it was unknown. The ice blast hit the chainsaw, slowing the blades down just enough to render them non-lethal. Annie ran forward and, closing the space between her and Taki unleashed a flurry of blows against the nun. She aimed for the hands, trying best to force Taki to drop the chainsaw. She grabbed Taki's wrist, trying as hard to break the bone as possible.

Annie became so focused she didn't notice gunfire shooting through the air.

Flying hurt like hell. Even with her magic active she could feel the burning pain in her wing. She knew pushing it this hard was a horrible idea. She casted a forcefield and could feel bullets impacting it. The demons below had opened fire, machine guns at her.

The hellgate was a massive ring made of hell stone with often four lighting points. Carol tried to remember what she learned. All it needed was to form a basic circle shape. As she flew closer to the altar she could see below parts of the gate exposed, tendrils reaching out. She gulped; unsure this was a good idea. A breach of the plan she determined this the only outcome they would survive in, barring fleeing. She readied her magic and shot fire at the first opening, tendrils greedily circling the fire, lighting up.

Mommy coughed, Whitty's punch also unjamming her stiletto. On the ground, Whitty jumped upon her, slamming fist into hist at her, in his blind rage. He screamed, unleashing his anger for the first time in a long time. So blinded, Mommy managed to catch both his fists and roll him over, reversing the situation. Pulling him up, she took him into a headlock. She would have continued had Carol not caught her attention.

Carol lit the second beacon. "A-Are you trying to open the gate? Are you suicidal?!" She grabbed Whitty's wick and threw him to the window. He smashed through the stain glass, landing somewhere outside. She couldn't understand what Carol was playing at.

"Oh. Are you some fanatic, thinks she'll get a free ticket to heaven for killing as many?"

Taki just took the punches, unmoving. "Annie move!" Pompom shouted, noticing the chainsaw melting the ice. Annie jumped back just as Taki swung it, sharp blades pulsing. Hands out, she didn't react fast enough as the blades slashed through her palm, horizontal gashes on each. Annie reeled back, loosing her balance.

This wasn't going to work. Annie got up, barely even registering the bloody hands and ran.

"DAMNIT!" Annie gulped, finally feeling fear. This wasn't how its supposed to end. Not like this. Annie growled and pulled another pew and swung it backwards. Though Taki slashed it, part of the pew still hit her, temporarily blinding her as sawdust kicked up the air.

Annie ran back, already getting plan B ready.

Mommy remained bewildered as she saw Carol light the next beacon. It made no sense. Mommy shouted, ordering the demons to keep the fire up on Carol. Carol would run out of magic eventually, there was no point in wasting energy on a suicidal angel. She waited, readying to summon an army once Carol completed the ritual.

The farmer's girl had been watching everything unfold and realized she needed a better plan too. She wasn't the least bit scared; Zardy prepared her for this. And Zardy taught her one other thing too.

As Annie fled, Taki turned her attention to Pompom, raising her chainsaw up. "Annie distract her! I got it! Trust me!"

"Damnit kid. I didn't want to do this yet." Annie sighed and pulled out a cannister of dark blue liquid. Ripping the lid off, she started chugging it. "Taki. Focus on Taki." She muttered quietly.

Remember exactly what Zardy said. Control it. Feel the dirt. She'd never done it seriously before but knew herself strong enough to. Pompom's eyes started to glow green.

"You know as soon as you open the gate you'll have to face an army right?!" Mommy shouted to Carol. She noticed the demons stopped firing. Turning she saw Whitty, covered in glass shards now engaging, enraged and practically strangling them. One of the other demons had started going to Pompom, noticing her in the midst of casting.

"They just don't know when to stay down." Mommy muttered and started walking to Whitty. "OVER HERE YOU FREAK!" Annie screamed to Mommy. She turned, though when she laid eyes on Annie it wasn't the girl she had that Taki fought.

She roared, charging Mommy. Annie gotten noticeably larger, gloves ripping from her new size. Her clothes stretched to accommodate, and her skin turned a green-blueish shade. She'd become a monster. Her voice deepened too.

Mommy had little time to react, just barely jumping out of the way as she smashed the altar to bits. Annie went berserk, seeing nothing but red. The scream got Taki's attention briefly but figuring Mommy busy with Annie, turned her focus back to Pompom.

Taki walked slowly, expecting Pompom to do something. The demon approached too and having emptied his magazine, instead planned to snatch her.

Imagine them moving through dirt like liquid. Imagine each individual thorn, each stalk that formed to a plant. And you're in control, all of them.

The final flame was lit causing the ground to shake. The hell gate was now active. Carol turned her attention back to the scene. It just needed to be turned on.

Whitty was in the middle of slaughtering demons, Annie chasing Mommy like a bear and Pompom about to be killed.

Now! Pompom let loose, thick green vines shooting up from the ground. They smashed through the cobblestone basement and through the church's wooden floor. They flew up and grabbed Taki, gripping around the chainsaw's blade. Though Taki tried to slice through, it wouldn't cut, the thorns and vines getting embedded in the chainsaw, jamming the mechanism.

Before the demon could attack Pompom, the vines grabbed her, pulling her to safety.

Unseen, and many, many kilometres away, Zardy could feel his vines being used. Overlooking the farm he felt proud. "Go get 'em girl." He muttered.

Annie got a hold of Mommy, slamming her into the ground. Though Mommy slashed Annie nothing would stop the monster. From the slash wounds, Annie's hand's stained Mommy, though that was the least of her concerns. As Annie slammed her to the ground she was expecting the floor to give out.

Carol flew to Whitty just as he finished the last demon. All wasn't without wounds; however, several bullet holes now present on Whitty. He was loosing strength fast and panting, unsure how much longer he could keep up.

Vines smashed through Taki's hand and made her drop the chainsaw, a plethora of vines destroying the tree chopping weapon; the same way Zardy did when he destroyed Tabi's flamethrower.

With everything in place Carol used the final spell to conclude the gate, a red portal emerged effectively cutting the church in half.

"Get off my you oaf!" Mommy screamed at Annie.

"Annie! Throw her in! Pompom too!" Carol shouted as she landed. She grabbed a hold of Whitty, helping him up.

Finally, in that instant Mommy understood. "YOU IDIOT. THAT'S YOUR PLAN? I'LL JUST-"

Annie understood too, and grabbing Mommy through her as hard as she could into the portal. She didn't get to finish her statement as the monster-girl chucked Mommy into that red mass, her scream vanishing within.

With the gate's roar echoing throughout the church, ground shaking, and everything tinting red, yet another thing emerged.

Pompom too understood and the vines tossed Taki into the portal too, throwing the remains of the chainsaw into it.

It did little to stop anyone as demons started pouring out. Stepping out of the portal, an all-black figure, lemon for a head exited. "I'm back!" It hissed.

Annie growled, ready to face the incoming army. Pompom too.

And as they both imagined it would be a tough fight, Carol stopped those thoughts.

"ANNIE! GET POMPOM TO SAFETY AND GET OUT OF HERE!"

Finally, in that instant did Whitty understand. Open the portal, banish Mommy and blow the damn thing up. Against the rules, it was the only way to not get killed.

Annie understood and ran after Pompom, grabbing her just as the demons started to charge at them. She ran to the basement, smashing the door to it. As they got in the basement, Pompom ordered the vines to encircle the two, providing as much protection as possible. Annie grabbed Pompom, tying to shield her as best she could in their cocoon.

Staring down the oncoming demon horde, both Whitty and Carol felt at peace.

"You ready hun?" Carol asked, panting. "Ready to go ballistic?"

"Born ready." A flame lit atop Whitty's head, setting the wick in motion.

The two hugged as a white light enveloped them. Pompom could feel an intense heat through the vines as the detonation occurred. The church exploded, extreme pressure, heat and energy bursting though the hellgate vaporizing it and all around. Anyone watching would have seen the church light, a barrage of colours lighting up around where the structure was.

From where Solazar watched he saw a few cameras go out, destroyed in the blast. The data centre heard the screaming, violence and insanity from the teams comlinks. Whitty and Carol's comlinks went offline. They heard a screeching sound from Pompom's end as she screamed, trying to keep her vines against the explosion. At the very least, they could tell the sheer amount of noise and ruckus the team was causing. And they knew Mommy was out.

"It appears that Whitty was successful." Updike said, watching it from a boat he drove.

Pompom felt the temperature cool down and retracted the vines. She looked out to a cloudy sky, nothing but smouldering ashes and a hole in the ground where a basement used to be. Annie let go of her, similarly, looking up in awe.

"HOT DAMN! I FELT THAT OUT HERE!" S shouted from the comlink. "Yo, you all gotta get outta there! There's multiple patrols coming!" Pompom could hear Nikku shouting on the other end, using Mommy's voice. She shouted about someone screwing something up, no doubt distracting from the fallout.

Annie got up, still in her beast mode. "Kid. You gotta go." Annie said quickly. She looked around, seeing Whitty and Carol on the ground, unmoving.

Pompom shook her head. "I need to get to S."

Now Playing...

Artist: E-Sagglia

Song: Eterna

Link: https://youtu.be/QOKH0V0-cRY

They could hear the commotion getting louder.

"Well then this is it. Thanks kid. I hope you make it out of this." Annie said and ran to Whitty and Carol. "Yo, you two did it!!!!"

There was no response.

"Annie, leave your car, move a few blocks east, we have an IRIS extraction team. They'll pretend to catch you." Tess said.

Annie growled in response, hoisting Whitty and Carol on her shoulders she ran, demons running after her. Annie's hands were still slashed. The combination of adrenaline, fear and the liquid were powering her through the pain and blood loss. She didn't even notice her getting blood all over Whitty and Carol as she carried them away.

Pompom could feel Zardy's magic wearing off, a wave of fatigue hitting her. She had no idea where the mailroom was. Climbing out of the basement she looked around. Many of the streetlights nearby were on and she could see hellhounds from the kennel coming closer. More demons emerged many of them turning sights to Pompom.

"M-mom. I need help!" She paged through the comlink.

"Head east Pomona! One of the teams are there. Just keep focused." Tess said, her worry seeping through her words.

"Ugh." She said. Turning her sights to the cliff she ran there, trying to keep distance.

Hellhounds, large dogs with crimson red fur, black sheen and snarling teeth charged her. She fired back, hitting some dogs, though her weak mana did little to stop them. Her only benefit in running being the thick fog that concealed her from the demons. However, it did nothing to deter the hellhounds who could smell her.

She ran along the cliff, her feet carrying her as fast as they could. It was only now that she felt fear creep in, the severity of the situation finally making herself know. She tripped, nearly falling off the cliff.

A sniffle, "I want to go home." She muttered.

"Hold on-CAN SOMEONE GET POMONA!" Solazar shouted to S and Nikusa.

Knocked down, the hellhounds encircled her, growling. Back to the cliff, Pompom readied her magic, planning a spell to catch her if she needed to jump. She closed her eyes as her ears became full of the hellhound's cries, something in front of her flashing brightly. She opened them to see several of them turned to smoke, the remaining ones scattering. "It worked?" She mumbled, thinking it was her magic somehow.

Her position now given away she could hear demons running towards her.

As she got up, something grabbed her from behind, a small metal arm clutching her stomach. "Geez, talk about close. How's that for some excitement?" S said, holding Pompom as he flew off the cliff.

"Thankthankthankyou!" Pompom said ecstatically, clutching S' arm to make sure he didn't drop her.

"S-shouldn't we be going to your spot?" She asked, mind instantly thinking he was evacuating her.

"Pfft. No. Gotta make it look like you got away, than we'll double back."

"Oh. Okay!" Pompom said, relieved.

"S has her. We'll keep her in the mailroom. Think we might be able to actually cast the spell here. They look to have some intercom system." Nikusa concluded saying to Displo, Solazar and Tess.

"Fine." Tess said. "Don't let her out of your sights."

"Sure, whatever."

"How are Whitty and Carol?" Kapi asked through the comlink, a little concern in his voice.

Annie didn't reply, too busy focusing on escaping. With their comlinks incinerated Solazar couldn't tell how they were doing either.

Displo took a deep breath and rubbed his screen. The operation hadn't been going so smoothly. Mommy was sent to hell. She got looks at four of the carnival members. Nikku at least made it look like Mommy ran to the mailroom after being attacked, commanding patrols to get to the church and chase Annie. But the fact of the matter remained. Mommy would not be affected by the spell. Team Haskell would be screwed once she got back.

Displo started to think of a fallback plan. Solazar and Tess had similar thoughts, that with Mommy defeated it exposed Team Haskell. Much as Solazar didn't want to it to be, they may just have to abandon them. Tess' thought of a different solution. That someone go to hell and make Mommy forget. But alas, she didn't know anyone who could venture.

This put a wrench in things, but it was too late to stop the operation. The show must go on.

Displo looked at the map, a group of dots heading from north slowly approaching the beach. If anyone could save Annie and co it would be Updike. But that would have to come later.

Next up was Team Zig. He hoped Updike, with his professionalism would fare better. The only one on that team he was worried about was Ace, with his endless depression.

The church has been blown up!

Mommy was sent to hell!

Cauda 05 - Sea Breeze

"Excellent work everyone."

Now Playing...

Artist: Bull of Heaven

Song: She Is As the Nights Are Horrible

Link: https://youtu.be/f5PW424hUyU

The open air on the lake refreshed all. Huggy had been in pure bliss from he moment he saw the lake and felt the breeze. His head out, looking down at the infinitely black waters below, he held on to the roof poles with both his arms. Even though rain lightly fell and soaked the monster he couldn't get over just how open the area was. He had never seen so much water in one spot. It was unbelievable! It was like Pompom's farm, with water instead of grass.

He and the rest of the team rode on a small family-size fishing boat. Only meant to situate 5-6 people, its area was that of a large van. Huggy and Kapi sat at the back, behind the driver's seat where Updike steered. Up front were Ace and Theo, both staring out forward. Everyone on board wore a backpack containing various materials needed for the operation. Kapi's had several extra bags, allergy medication (just in case he came into close contact with Pompom) and some personal belongings. He didn't know the contents of the others. All he knew was that Theo had all sorts of electronics in his. After all, that was his schtick.

Huggy sticking his head out the boat worried Kapi. Worried the monster would fall right out or worried he could catch a cold. He didn't like how dark it was either. The moon and the stars lay hidden beneath the clouds.

But, most of all he didn't like how poor the sight was. Updike had turned the lights off, preferring upmost stealth to sight.

Kapi shifted in his seat, clutching his hoodie tightly. Nighttime on a cold lake, a being whose presence lowered temps and rain only served to make the area uniquely chilly. At least the boat's roof was up, though it did nothing to stop the wind and splash from the water. He shivered, again looking to the rest of the team.

Updike, stoic as ever remained seated in the chair, eyes glancing between the boat's interface and lake in front, his mass of hair blowing everywhere. He barely said a word the whole trip, the lake requiring his full attention. He had a whole slew of gadgets in front of him strapped to the dashboard. A barometer, holographic map of the lake, and a GPS tracker. All blasting light onto Updike it was the most visible thing present.

He couldn't really hear his comlink, only vaguely aware of what was going on at the Compound. S let loose some monster and Mommy was thrown into hell. He didn't dare look over the boat's edge. Nevermind sea sickness, he still wasn't sure if any of those 'troll' creatures were in the water. Or really any kind of underwater monster. This city was unpredictable.

Ace hadn't said much either, or really even during the training. He kept to himself, moreso than all of the other members. The most he said anything to was Theo and Updike, Ace developing some kind of companionship with them. At least, Kapi thought so. They would always leave together.

He pulled his hood over his ears tighter, hoping to keep warm. Still unsatisfied by the warmth he dug into the seats, finding an old beach towel. It now doubled as a blanket which he wrapped upon himself.

Theo wore the same clothes as before, yellow dress shirt and purple plaid sweater, maroon pants. Only this time, he wore a very light-yellow poncho and hat upon him. Kapi couldn't understand how he wasn't freezing. Theo explained it to him earlier, that he 'had spent so many nights atop roller coasters that a little breeze from the lake is nothing.' Kapi didn't get it.

Theo had been ecstatic to start, probably the most excited person on this team. Ever since his first encounter with the 'unusual' he wanted more. It had been so invigorating for him that he had gone ahead and joined The Greater Good. Kapi wasn't sure why, but he at least added some colour to the team, trying to keep spirits up between Ace's depression and Updike's perpetual professionalism.

Aside from the vanilla-coloured seats and Updike's always-white appearance Kapi couldn't see much around him. The only proper source of light emitted from the controls which lit Updike's face as he steered.

They had driven from the data centre much earlier, parked around the east side of the lake then taken the boat all the way there.

"Land-ho!" Theo shouted.

Kapi didn't see it at first, but soon enough the cliffs came into view. He wasn't sure if he imagined it or not but thought he saw smoke rising from the clifftop. Then again, he also knew Whitty's team was successful, the smoke probably from the church. He also didn't know the fates of Whitty and Carol. It bothered him too, though not so much as the anxiety of his impending 'performance'.

The compound was situated high above sea level, in a massive section of the city that oversaw a lake to the north. The lake allegedly formed sometime ago after an asteroid hit the spot. The crash formed a crater and water filled it. At least, that's what Kapi recalled he was taught.

Whatever the geological event caused it, just north of the Church were a series of cliffs that towered over the lake. If one drove enough northwest or northeast the land would lower and hit the lake's level. However, where the compound stood, cliffs peaked.

And, where the compound sat the cliffs moulded inwards, creating a U shape, giving the compound's view a unique appearance. It was deep in this 'lake-valley' that a beach sat at the end, a pipe connecting into the compound jutting out of the landscape further up the cliff.

Updike started to steer into the U, standing up to a better watch. Though it enough room for even a larger boat, rocks littered the sea-level, jutting out awkwardly and requiring Updike to fully use the barometer.

He slowed the speed down and raised the engine slightly. Formed naturally and untouched by man, the beach had never been groomed or the bay charted well. Steering turned into a game, Updike moving a few metres forward and having to steer to avoid another set of rocks. He sighed, realizing that now would have been a good time to have Valorie. That if she was present, she could have raised the water level, possibly even given even more rain cover.

Several of these scenarios bugged his mind since they left. Idle thoughts. That he could have had Dr. Springheel get welcomed onto the property as a demon-expert then bug the place. He could have had Ruv provide distraction, maybe even have his son use his illusory powers.

He mumbled something, Theo speaking up wondering if he addressed him.

"I wasn't talking to you." Updike said, a little loud.

"Ah, very well then. We are almost close, yes?"

Updike nodded. "Soon."

While rocks lurked near the waters surface, the beach hid no such secrets. The sand was course and dense, comprised of tiny stones and pebbles. As the boat docked, it made a loud scraping sound. Many larger rocks littered about the beach. There was no spot to set up a towel and relax, the area completely inhospitable. On either side of the cliff too, sharp, jagged rocks lined around the beach.

With the boat sufficiently grounded Updike saw no point to drop the anchor, instead getting out himself, the boat shaking as he jumped off.

"Is everyone ready?"

Huggy nodded, taking himself off the boat, finally noticing Kapi shivering. He wrapped Kapi up with his arm and put him on his back, gently cuddling him. He was oblivious to how wet he had gotten. Kapi just sighed.

"I am absolutely ready." Theo said enthusiastically.

Ace sighed and got out of the boat, leaning against it.

"You are aware of the plan, Ace?" Updike asked expectantly.

"I'll wait here for you guys."

"...And?"

He looked down. "Set up the booster. Turn the boat around. Just please. Find him."

"Don't worry my furry friend. We shall." Theo said.

"Right." Updike said. "Remember. You see any boats, drones or anything. Freeze 'em."

Ace said nothing as he pulled a bag from under the seat. He got out and jammed it into the sand, not saying a word. A blast of ice to it's base, he froze it to the ground. A few lights blinked on it as a green energy started to flow out it like water.

"Booster activated. I can see it here." Solazar said through the comlink.

Ace said nothing as he climbed back into the boat, lying down on the of the seats. He took a book out of his bag and started reading, Kapi unsure how exactly he could see in such dark conditions.

Theo had tried during the meetings, as did Kapi and Huggy but they could never lift Ace's spirits. It made Theo feel bad, and in the back of his mind vowed to find RetroSpector for him.

The four approached the cliff. Petrified dirt, jagged rocks and compressed earth seeped like veins reached into the dark sky above them. They could see the pipe far above, a few droplets dripping from it. A pink flag hung from the pipe, courtesy of Theo's recon. A skilled rock climber could ascend, though none of them were. Kapi gulped as he saw some dirt brush off the climb and land nearby. It looked way higher than he thought.

Updike took off his backpack and started rummaging through it. They all knew how to get up and all planned for it in the simulation. Theo too took something out of his backpack. A large round disc.

Placing it on the ground, Theo pushed a series of buttons on it. It whirred to life, sprouting propeller blades underneath and a series of rockets. Theo stepped onto it as the platform began humming up. He couldn't help but feel smug about it. "I shall see you up top." He said as the platform moved excruciatingly slow.

Kapi groaned. He didn't look forward to this part at all, still not used to Huggy. He wondered how he even got suckered into this. He should have been the escape driver, not one of the agents! That was the whole beef he had with Blindside too! Huggy took charge and grabbing Kapi placed him on his back where a harness sat. Kapi held on for dear life as Huggy walked up to the cliff and started climbing, the monster having little trouble finding rocks to grab. Before he made each move he tested the hold, making sure the next rock wasn't loose. Kapi just closed his eyes, hoping Huggy would get up quicker.

Updike finished rummaging through his bag and pulled out a pair of gloves, two pickaxes, rope and grappling hook. Putting the gloves on and putting the rope around his arm he got ready. Pickaxe in each hand he slammed one of them into the cliff. It lodged deep. Testing the strength he mused, "Yes. This is adequate." This was to be a full upper-body exercise, one he was practically built for. He slammed the other pickaxe above the first and begun his ascent. There was no shortage of loose rocks to stand on either, just in case he needed a breather.

Huggy saw the ascent as a race, and seeing Updike below him took charge, climbing faster. Kapi kept his eyes closed, breath held and refusing to look down, stomach churning as Huggy ascended.

With Theo's platform moving dreadfully slow and Updike careful not to push himself too hard, Huggy made it up in record time. As he had done back in the factory he crawled into the pipe, this time letting out a screech as he had 'won'. He shook in excitement with no regard for Kapi.

"P-put me down please." Kapi said weakly as dizziness kicked in.

Huggy did so and gently placing Kapi onto the platform, gave him a pat on the head. Kapi sat down, slumped against the pipe's wall.

The pipe was large, wide enough to fit several people in. Two platforms existed on either side, wide enough that two could walk beside each other. A canal cut through the two, wide enough to swim in and deep enough for Kapi.

Looking forward he saw some parts of the canal had a metal bridge covering the top, allowing for traversal between the two sides.

It really did look like a typical sewer, though why exactly it had been built outwards remained a mystery. Kapi initially thought it so excess water and crap would pour out, but the centre canal remained empty, nothing but damp dirt and a few puddles here and there.

At least it didn't smell, and he could already feel the inside of the pipe warmer and drier than outside.

Huggy looked forward and saw much farther than Kapi. It worried him, the long tunnel reminding him of the factory. He had spent so much time outside and in sunlight it changed his perspective of the factory. He grew to hate it, and to now return to this dark dungeon crawling saddened him. He stopped though, remembering that this time he had friends.

Though the operation too complex for him he at least determined what they did was for a good reason. They were here to find a friend.

Updike arrived next, the clamouring of the pickaxes making noise as he struck one into the riverbed, pulling himself up. Brushing himself off he stomped on the dirt, making sure it solid enough. Satisfied, he jammed the pickaxe into it and tied the rope to the it, tossing the bundle over the cliff. He left the second pickaxe on the platform, jamming it into the nearby bridge.

Theo arrived last, his platform finally reaching the pipe. Still standing professionally he stepped off and grabbed the platform, laying it near the pickaxe.

"Are we all ready?" Updike asked.

"Guess so."

"Indeed. This will be quite the adventure." Theo said positively. The cold couldn't dampen his spirits.

"Excellent." Updike said. He wore a computer on his forearm, the large screen it had meant to guide them. He held it up, a hologram emitting from it. The hologram displayed a 3D view of the sewer, several additional icons glowing around in the model.

1. The way up to the manor.

2. The source of that sound Theo heard.

3. A loose icon of RetroSpector's possible location.

4. Question marks for the spots they needed to set up the magic boosters.

Of course, only Theo and Updike knew of the sound, neither having mentioned it to Kapi or the rest of the team. Though unconfirmed Updike believed it to be RetroSpector.

"Mhm. We shall approach down this way and turn at the 2nd split. The rest of you follow closely. Though we determined this area safe, the Family could have all sorts of tricks." Updike said, taking the lead.

From out of Theo's backpack he drew a small sphere. With a click of a button wings sprouted from it and the sphere took flight, a front light emitting from it.

Inspired by Carol's wisp, Theo saw fit to create his own 'wisp'. This was fruit of that labour, and much better than their original plan: bring lots of gasoline, sticks and bandages.

They proceeded down in silence, Updike glancing ahead and occasionally at his wrist map. Though he didn't look it, he also glanced around looking for any traps, spies or what-have-you.

Huggy and Theo were determined, though for completely different reasons. Though Theo didn't care for the Family, he considered himself a perfectionist, wanting to make sure this operation ran smoothly. He also believed there to be an unspoken competition between the teams, that he wished to do better than Lisp and Haskell. And with how Haskell already broke one of the rules he saw his team in the lead.

Huggy felt determined because this time had had friends. Though it didn't look, smell or see it, he had deluded himself into thinking this tunnel lead back to the factory, that he was to face his fears, with friends. He was ready for anything.

Kapi did not share the share the same sentiment, still wondering how the hell he got stuck doing this.

Tunnel after tunnel they walked through in silence. A few times Updike had come to an abrupt stop waiting to see if anything happened. He listened closely to his comlink as well, the COs occasionally giving updates as to the other team's movements. Theo had to stop too at specific points to set up the magic boosters. He knew very little of magic and didn't understand how they worked. Even after Carol explained it to him, he understood they worked like a signal repeater, but he didn't understand how it could pick up on magic. All he knew was that he had to set up and conceal them, which he did with a black cloth.

Each stood at about half Theo's height, a grey pillar surrounded by circles of a coffee-coloured metal, wires attached to them all.

It stood on 4 small legs and pads that allowed for it to stand stable. All Theo had to do was place it down, push a few buttons and a small opening up top would open, energy pouring out. Then cover with a piece of fabric to ensure nobody found them.

The walls remained cracked and chipped, endless rows of moss-covered bricks. It didn't bother anyone, but Kapi noted he had only seen this in the outskirts of the Factory.

As they walked deeper inside, Kapi found it significantly warmer, no longer shivering. The only downside was that the air turned stale and dirty, fresh not having breached these tunnels in ages. The water levels varied, some parts nary a drop and some parts a brook. Kapi and Theo both chose not to look into it, figuring it better if neither knew anything that lurked in it.

Thirst catching up to him, Huggy decided he would take a drink, just to hold him over. He stopped and bending down...got caught by Kapi. "Huggy don't drink that!" He said. tugging on his fur.

Huggy let out a whine. "Here, here. Don't worry I brought some." Theo said. From his backpack he pulled out a canteen. "Ah, this is the right one. Kapi. Put your hands out."

Kapi did so and Theo uncorked and poured some water into Kapi's hands, Huggy licking at them actively.

"I must admit. I never understood what exactly Huggy is supposed to be." Theo said, looking the monster over.

"I, um, don't really know myself."

"I believe he may be the first of his kind. IRIS had a team go investigate that factory, but I know not what their fate was. Shall we keep moving?" Updike added, turning back to face them.

Huggy nodded, finishing lapping at the water. Kapi wiped his hands on his hoodie, not doing much as the hoodie was still damp.

They continued on, nothing but the occasionally dripping, Updike's comlink and steps on the stone floor keeping them company.

"Are there really no cameras here?" Kapi inquired, bewildered.

"We didn't detect any when we surveyed it." Updike answered.

"Hm. No guards either?"

"Nope."

"Well there was that sound. But that could have been anything." Theo said, observing Huggy.

"What sound?"

"Nothing to be concerned about. I am sure it was just a trick. Why would they even need to patrol down here?" Updike asked, rhetorically.

"...To stop people like us?" Kapi said.

"Focus more on the mission. I can handle whatever they throw at us."

They continued on in silence, Kapi now quietly worrying about whatever 'sound' Theo and Updike knew of.

It did get Updike thinking, however. While demons hailed from clans he didn't know much about the clan the henchmen came from. He never bothered asking any demon contacts. Seemingly they popped up out of nowhere.

Theo eventually pulled his own flashlight out, using that to look around. He had been scanning the walls. When he reviewed the drone footage last he saw something on the wall the drone missed. Believing he was close now he scanned each one, looking for that strange blur he saw in the video. They were close to the end as well. He knew because the concrete appeared looked more maintained, no moss growing here.

And sure enough, like he remembered in the video there it was, an engraving on the wall. He stopped, allowing the others to go on.

A crude drawing of what appeared to be people, simple square bodies and circles the other expenditures. Blank faces on them all, it depicted a few standing at each other, holding a crude drawing of a gun. He figured it just some off brand graffiti but nonetheless made him excited. "Remarkable." He said, happy. "I feel like an archeologist."

Now noticing they had left Theo behind, Updike stopped. "What are you staring at?"

"Mhm. Nothing. Just some graffiti. How old do you think these tunnels are?"

"I don't-" Updike stopped and turned back to the front. He saw at light in the distance.

"Everyone quiet. Theo turn off those lights."

Theo nodded and snapped his fingers, the light-bot flying back to him and shutting off. Nobody moved in the darkness. Kapi couldn't shake the scared feeling, Huggy noticing it and forcibly cuddling him.

Though nobody could see it, Theo also felt worried too.

They watched as two demons walked along the perpendicular path. Just as they shined the light they were gone, wandering to some deeper part of the maze.

What followed next was a game of cat and mouse, Updike using his map to manoeuvre and Huggy's hearing to identify when a patrol neared. Theo felt alive, the tunnel now reminding him of back home. He recalled running through caves like this blindly with friends.

They found a few more patrols wandering. None seemed too enthused about having to walk around but judging by their movements, they were under orders. Updike determined them to just be patrolling the outer perimeter. Either that, or half-assing the whole maze.

The area changed as well, changing from sewer maze to mineshaft. Scaffolding held up the ceiling and stone bricks turned to compressed dirt.

They'd officially gone off route, patrols blocking the original path. They found some cameras had been set up on the perimeter too. With S controlling the centre it would not have been a problem, but he couldn't locate those cameras, figuring they were either too new or were directing their feeds elsewhere. Nobody carried ranged weapons and with no easy to way to take them out other paths were sought.

It didn't bother Updike much, Theo's bot used sonar to map out the whole maze. Alternate route did exist which they proceeded through. Finally, they approached the last tunnel. Far better lit it only got brighter as the tunnel reached its end. Sitting below the lights were a pair of demons on stools looking out at the dark expanse before them.

For now the team were cloaked but any step forward would expose them.

"How should we approach this?" Updike muttered.

"Can't we just charge them?" Kapi asked. "Have S or something block their signals?"

"No can do." S said through the comlink, still a pro at appearing when his name mentioned. "Can only do that if I knew what radios they had. There's like 100 active ones and I've only figured out a few who-has-what."

"Can you shut down the signal then?"

"Pfft. Be smarter man. I do that everyone's gonna freak out. Just have Starline charge them or something. They'll crap themselves when they see a giant marshmallow running to them."

Updike said nothing, knowing full well than to take the bait.

"Huggy could lure them out." Theo said, patting the monster on the back.

Huggy looked to Theo, unsure.

"I have a better idea." Updike said, a rare smile appearing on his face.

The demons had been sitting for an unknown amount of time. Well, they knew exactly how much, to the second. That's all they did, just count. They were waiting for the next rotation so they could go back upstairs. All they knew from their own links was that 'Mommy' had been in the mailroom barking orders at everyone and the gate had exploded. Some religious terrorists snuck onto the property and blew up the church. Nonetheless 'Mommy' was pissed. The timing didn't help either.

Continuing to watch they noticed something lurk in the dark. Neither one got up, pretending they couldn't see it. They didn't feel like moving.

The movement grew closer and out crawled a catboy, sniffling. He looked injured, at least, they guessed from the dark fur. He had no shirt on, exposing a furry underbelly, coloured dimly.

"H-help me.." He said quietly. The two demons got up, unsure what to make of it.

At best it was a trespasser who gotten where he shouldn't of. Someone who could swiftly we dealt with and forgotten.

"Lost?" One of the demons asked. He started walking but stopped, seeing something wrap around the catboy's leg. Grabbing the boy's leg it stopped his crawling. The catboy looked back, eyes wide in horror it had caught him. The mysterious yellow and blue appendage gripped him and started to pull him back.

"HELP!" The catboy shouted as a blur furry arm dragged him into the darkness. The demons ran after, figuring they could take whatever had him. With flashlights ablaze they bolted into the gaping black, lighting the way. They made it a few metres before the appendage stopped. Shining flashlights up they saw endless rows of teeth and the wide smile of a monster.

Just behind it, a wall of a man who looked like a cloud and another dressed as a schoolteacher.

A struggle ensued, muffled screams, the scraping of blades on concrete and a bright flash of light happened in rapid succession. Out from the darkness emerged the team, Kapi putting his shirt and hoodie back on.

"Excellent work everyone." Theo said, hitting Updike on the back.

"Mhm."

"Yeah, now my fur is wet-argh." Kapi started to complain but stopped, Huggy starting to cuddle to warm him up. He just sighed and kept quiet. He wanted to say something but last time he shouted at Huggy, Pompom wouldn't let him hear the end of it.

"What was that flash?" Theo asked, amazed.

"An exorcism done quick." Updike said brashly.

"Fascinating." Theo muttered. "Do you think we might be able to do it on the Family?"

They walked to the exit.

"Not likely. I can do it because they are weak demons. Something more powerful than that is not possible."

"Darn."

Approaching where the demons were stationed was a cave-like exit. It appeared as if someone had dug it out, or rather burst through. Kapi peered into the hole, finding an industrial-factory basement on the other side. Plenty of equipment scattered all over the place of varying sizes, all made of metal. Theo found himself more interested by the shelves of preserves that lined the walls where the demons sat, just before the hole. All sorts of jams, canned food and cellar-bound foodstuffs. It reminded him of his own pantry.

Just as Updike turned off his map projection a scream emitted next to them.

"URYCZCYRNFRSERRZRRRRR!!!!!!"

Inhuman, distorted and loud, it rung everyone's ears. Too human to be an animal. Yet the way it screeched was impossible for a human or anthro to perform. Not digital either, the scream echoed a torment as if it weren't from this planet.

Kapi jumped, Huggy catching him.

Instinctively all turned to the right, where a corridor led to down another path. It was dark but a fluorescent light could be seen just at the end where it turned.

Theo tensed up. There wasn't any doubt in his mind. That was the sound they had heard from the drone. Instinctively he picked up a shovel off the ground. His heart sank as the scream made his hairs stand on end.

"W-was that the sound?" Kapi asked, voice a whisper. Huggy tightened his grip on Kapi, flinching too as the sound rippled again, though weaker this time.

Updike felt a little concerned at the sound though was thinking more of how its volume could attract any nearby guards. Clearing his throat, Updike spoke. "Indeed."

The scream echoed a third time throughout the halls though quieter this time. The 'screamer' was loosing strength it sounded like. Kapi likewise thought it would attract patrols though stopped. Something about the screaming sounded...familiar.

Nobody moved until Updike spoke up. If anyone would know what to do in this situation it would be him, Kapi and Theo decided. And his ruling came.

"It was a cry for help." Updike said after a pause. Updike looked down the corridor. "I propose we investigate it."

Cauda 06 - All Bets Off

"You know this demon?!"

"H-hold on. You can't be serious. We gotta get out of here!" Kapi said.

"How do you know it was a cry? Er, I mean it sounded like it was in pain but-" Theo started to ask but Updike cut him off. "The language. That was a form of demonic. I don't know it exactly, but I believe translated it said, 'help me'."

Kapi didn't like the direction this was heading in. "E-even so-"

Updike shook his head. "That scream is going to attract patrols if it's not some kind of alert already. We need to silence it. The victim could even as well be Retro. This area is the optimal place for a prison."

"Uh-Uh-You really sure this is a good idea?" Kapi asked. "I mean, can't Theo use his drones or something to check? Or-we could get Huggy too. Y-yeah!" Kapi said as Huggy put him down. He reached into his backpack and pulled out a navy-blue hoodie, the sache a darker blue. "Huggy. Can you smell this and tell us where it is?" Huggy nodded and gave a sniff. Closing his eyes he allowed his nose to do the seeing.

"I do have to agree with Updike here." Theo said. "This would be the optimum spot for a prison. And if there are others, freeing them would be the perfect distraction as we loot the quarters." Theo said cunningly.

Solazar had taken a rather hands off approach to this team. He knew Updike more than capable of leading. But for this 'side quest' he felt he had to comment.

"Updike. Are you absolutely sure this is a good idea? If there was a prison break it would only wrought more chaos." He asked through the comlink.

"How is the state above?" Updike asked.

"All quiet. There are investigations going on regarding the church and a patrol of demons trying to trail Annie. Python will be leaving later. Team Lisp has fooled everyone for now." Solazar replied. "It has been chalked up to a religious terroristic attack on the church. "

"That's right!" Mommy declared through the comlink. It made Kapi flinch though the others knew it was just Nikku (as if the giggling afterwards didn't indicate so).

"We are going to investigate first. This is for intelligence purposes. I don't believe we need to free anyone yet though it will provide substantial support should we need to. Perhaps give us a clearer picture of what exactly is going on here."

"Very well." Solazar said.

Huggy detected a few foreign scents down the tunnel. Cologne, chemicals, blood, sulfur, metal and a small hint of bubblegum. But no Retro. He smelled more intently, faintly picking up the hoodie's scent. Not down the tunnel but up through the basement. Huggy motioned there.

"S-see? Retro isn't down there. Let's just leave this-"

"I disagree my feline friend. I believe we have a duty to help the lost souls down there. It is for the Greater Good, isn't it?"

Nikku, hearing the conversation, couldn't help but snicker at Theo's pompousness. Updike cracked a smile.

Kapi shook his head. Why me? "Can't you use your drones to check?"

"I suppose I could. Allow me a few moments to check."

Kapi breathed a sigh of relief. As a fourth scream echoed Kapi flinched again. This scream sounded the least distorted, anguish present in its cadence. Something about it bothered Kapi. He shuddered.

"What is it?" Theo asked, digging through his bag.

"It's just..it sounds familiar."

"All the more reason to investigate." Updike said.

Huggy had been listening attentively, drawing his own conclusions. Most of the scents weren't familiar though he knew cleaning chemicals and labs when he sniffed them. He knew the factory's pipes and sewers in and out and this was similar to them all. He knew he had friends now. He knew all together they were looking for someone. And he knew that it was you and Kapi that freed him, having ventured into that dungeon to locate him for reasons he didn't understand. You and Kapi were just good people, Huggy decided.

He saw the facts clearly.

1. This must be the factory he was made in.

2. There is someone screaming in pain, possibly another test subject.

3. The screamer is in a lab.

4. The team is looking for people.

5. Kapi went to that factory to find him and now they're back.

To Huggy the answer was simple.

The team were here to free the others like him!

Huggy emitted a curious sound, inquiring if he should go forth.

Another scream, though this one was different. It sounded less distorted with more sadness. The victim's voice cracked; chords strained under whatever pain.

Huggy knew when he heard pain in the voice and taking charge, decided to go. This was his turf after all.

"HUGGY! STOP!" Kapi shouted, to no avail.

Huggy bolted down the corridor, running so fast he nearly crashed into the bend. He turned, vanishing into the light. He was coming to help! That's why they were there!

Kapi sighed. "There's no catching a break! CMON!"

"Exciting! This is quite an adventure. Let's move!" Theo said, running after Huggy, holding his shovel like a sword.

Kapi looked at Updike, sad. The cloudman just shrugged. "He is a member of this team. You are free to stay here until our business is concluded should you wish." He started walking after Theo.

Muttering some swears, Kapi hung his head and followed Updike.

Though Huggy ran off recklessly, the others moved cautiously. That they didn't hear him screaming was a good sign. It ruled out the possibility of it being a trap.

Though the hallway was poorly lit Kapi noticed the dirt turning to white tiles as they got closer to the bend.

"Huggy get back here!" Kapi whispered aggressively as he got closer.

He would have walked right into the next room had Updike not grabbed his tail. Updike stopped just at the bend, knowing full well than to otherwise barge in. If this was a prison, surely, they would have guards present. Screaming stopped he could hear banging of chains and heavy breathing. Not Huggy's breathing, this sounded even more animalistic.

"I shall go on. Keep silent." Updike said, finger in front of his mouth. Kapi nodded, staying with Theo.

"Huggy. What is the meaning of this?" Huggy grunted to Updike in response. "I see. Huh, who...but why?" Updike said perplexed. "You two, come out now. It's safe."

Releasing a sigh of relief Kapi and Theo stepped into the next room, surprised at what they saw.

A laboratory. There was no doubt in either mind about it.

White laminate flooring, white walls with some blue tiles, tables, a rack of labcoats, a sink and a large computer with many screens around it. All bundled together with a distinct peroxide scent. Sitting on the left wall were a series of three large, human-size holding tanks. Each was full of stagnant green liquid, various pipes and wires coming in and out of them. Theo found those most interesting, immediately looking at them. Each contained a label, 'Specimen 1, 2 and 3'.

While Theo went on his own it was the right wall that Huggy stared solemnly at. The wall contained three cells, each stretching further into the wall. It was the middle one which drew Huggy's attention. He stood in front, looking in. The other two were empty.

They appeared to not be part of the lab design, the ground turning back to dirt and the walls to cobblestone in each cell. Even the bars looked weak, made of rusted metal with a simple lock-and-key mechanism. Far dirtier and medieval looking than the sleek lab they found themselves in.

The scream emitted again, a sound of pure agony coming from the middle cell. Huggy barked at it, motioning for Updike to open it. Kapi peered in.

Kapi's eyes settled on the prisoner, curious as to what could be making that sound. His eyes went wide, seeing the cell's denizen.

A demonic figure, chains around his wrists; he was shackled to the wall, though with his struggling they loosened.

Kapi took a step back in shock.

The prisoner wore a black suit, having been ripped open, exposing a tattered white undershirt. Dirt speckled all over, indicating he had been here for a while. He wore dress shoes and black pants, the latter stained red. With glowing red eyes and mouth he looked furious. Thick black hair which almost hid two black horns, it was no wonder he sounded familiar to the catboy.

"B-blackjack?" Kapi asked, aghast, still not believing his eyes.

Like a bull, Blackjack snorted, puffs of blackened smoke emitting from his nostrils.

"You know this demon?!" Updike asked.

"Y-yeah. He runs the arcade. But. I don't know what he's doing here."

Kapi glanced back at Blackjack. Whatever humanity he had in him was gone. Nothing in those eyes' sans burning hatred.

"What arcade?"

"Uhh. Flashpoint. T-the one we went-"

"Hm. I vaguely recall seeing someone like that." Updike touched his ear, activating the comlink. "Abott. Give me everything you can find on a demon named Blackjack. Cross-reference Flashpoint Arcade. He interacted with our men a few weeks ago after Flashbang. See if anyone wrote a report."

"On it."

Kapi couldn't help but stare at Blackjack, still confused by his appearance. He struggled again, yanking at the chains that restrained him. At one point the chains would have been higher up, forcing him to stand but through here they'd been pulled down, allowing Blackjack to sit.

"He's never been like this though."

Joining the three, Theo took his place beside Updike. "Those chains look rather loose. Are you sure it is safe?"

Blackjack yanked again, the chains visibly jostling and dislocating as he pulled. Huggy stopped staring, backing up slowly. He wasn't sure what this 'Blackjack' was, but it now worried him. Huggy knew the look. Primal and like a cornered animal, seeing nothing but red. Huggy knew what it was like and knew him impossible to reason with.

Not paying attention he backed up to the back of the lab, hitting one of the green tanks. He trembled, this place reminding him too much of the factory. Even with friends he felt scared.

Another puff of smoke emerged from Blackjack, despite it not being cold. With a heavy grunt he pulled as hard as he could, ripping one of the chains and shackle out of the wall.

One arm free now, Theo, Updike and Kapi stepped back. That he freed his first arm sent him into a fury, struggling hard to pull out the second one.

Updike broke into a fighting stance, putting his fists up.

"Theo ready yourself. It appears we may have a fight."

Blackjack ripped the second shackle out. Now free, on all four he ran to the gate, smashing against it. It shook violently under his assault.

Now Playing...

Artist: Malebolge

Song: Conoisseur of Sin

Link: https://youtu.be/R5MQdlwYcEU

"How close are you to this abomination?" Updike asked.

"W-what?"

"Can I slay him?"

"Uh, I-I don't know. He's been nice to me."

"No matter."

"I-hey!" Huggy grabbed Kapi, taking him out of the range of the gate. He put the catboy on his back, Huggy's instinct to 'protect Kapi'.

"THEO GET BACK!" Updike shouted as Blackjack smashed the gate, removing the last barrier between them. He breathed heavily, still in a berserk rage.

He screamed incoherently as he charged Updike, lunging at him. Updike opened his fists, catching and locking each other in a game of mercy.

Theo stood aside and moved behind Blackjack, wielding the shovel, he smashed it over Blackjack's head. It did little to stop the demon from trying to crush Updike's hands. He did lose some focus and Updike, holding Blackjack's hands rotated and slammed him on the ground. Theo moved quickly, raising the shovel and jamming the sharp end down, intending to stab Blackjack.

Kapi and Huggy stayed away, Huggy hissing but otherwise not wanting this fight.

Blackjack grabbed the shovel just as it hit his chest. His hand easily smashed through the wooden handle. Theo watched, then dropped it as he saw the shovel turn a glowing yellow, shining under the fluorescent lights.

It turned gold.

"By god." Theo stepped back.

Blackjack got up and let out another scream.

"Don't let him touch you! He has midian abilities." Updike said, for the first time worried.

Updike didn't let up in his assault, immediately going for Blackjack's face in a flurry of punches. The demon just took them and sensing a spot grabbed Updike's hand, the glove turning to gold.

The TGG trio member acted quickly ripping off his glove before it could transform any more, giving Blackjack a roundhouse before doing so.

"Abott! This demon has Midian abilities. You may have to prepare an anti...darn." Updike looked to see his hand now turning to gold, slowly but he could feel himself losing feeling.

Theo retreated, grabbing his bag and pulling something out of it.

"Kapi! Hold him off I got an idea." Theo shouted.

Kapi and Huggy jumped in, Huggy letting out a roar.

"C'mon, Blackjack don't you remember me? I helped you out."

For a brief second Blackjack paused, then resumed his assault. He lunged at Huggy, intending to rip the monster's throat. Huggy moved quickly, dodging and getting behind Blackjack. He chomped down, teeth sinking into the demon's neck.

Blackjack screamed more loudly than before, even causing Huggy to get off him from the yelling.

Though he could no longer feel or move his left-hand Updike continued unabated. He hit Blackjack with some kicks and punches, now aiming for the demon's stomach. As he combo'd him, he tried to corner him back into the cell.

He tried his best to keep Blackjack's hands away from him, barely reacting when his shoe was turned to gold.

"Now!" Theo shouted as a drone flew by. Attached to the drone was a rope. "Updike stand back!" He ordered, the weatherman did so. He jumped back, ignoring the lack of feeling in his.

The drone whirred around Blackjack, attempting to ensnare him in the rope. He reacted way more intelligently than Theo expected, grabbing the rope and smashing the drone. In a few seconds he lunged at Theo, grabbing his hands. He would have crashed, but Updike elbowed him against the wall.

To his horror, Theo saw his gloves start to turn gold. "NO NO NO, ah!" Theo shouted, tossing his gloves off, panicking. "CALM YOURSELF MAN!" Updike said.

It did little to stop the flow, Theo seeing his hands now turning a bright shade of yellow.

"We gotta do something!" Kapi said to Huggy. He felt terrified, no clue what to actually do.

"Abott. I will need an antidote. How soon can you reach here?"

"15 minutes."

"One of you should get to safety, otherwise Ace will run it in it!" Solazar said quickly. Unseen, he facepalmed himself realizing just what danger they let loose.

Unable to move much, Updike charged Blackjack. If he were going down, then he may as well stop the demon from getting out. He counted Theo out as well, the wannabe-agent panicking and losing grip on himself.

He gripped Blackjack by the throat and threw him back into the cell. He stood in the way, blocking the exit, letting the gold take him. Blackjack charged him, Updike holding the sides of the cell's entry to keep himself straight, no regard that he was now 60% gold. Chest puffed out he held Blackjack in the cell, ignoring the scratching and clawing the demon was doing to him.

"Kapi! Get out of here! Abott's delivering the antidote! Bring it to me posthaste!"

Huggy nodded, understanding what he must do. He watched as Theo and Updike continued their transformation.

He ejected Kapi off, motioning him to go.

"What are you doing?" Kapi asked. Updike too, bewildered as he saw Huggy's eyes narrow on Blackjack trying to push Updike out of the way. The monster scampered up, crawling under Updike. He let out a hiss and grabbed Blackjack, first pulling him into a master lock, arms and legs under Blackjack's. He had little trouble, pulling the arm further and interlocking it around his neck. Oxygen cut off, Huggy squeezed.

Like he was tapping out, Blackjack tried to pull Huggy off him, even turning the monster to gold in the process. Huggy didn't budge, even as he lost feeling in his arms. Kapi tried to get in but with Updike blocking him wasn't possible.

"NO! HUGGY YOU CAN'T DO THIS!"

"You idiot! Get the antidote from Ace! LEAVE ME AND THE OTHERS!" Updike shouted.

Updike blocked the way as Kapi tried to run in. Huggy's mouth closed, giving him a content smile as Blackjack's struggling weakened. The bright colours in his eyes started to fade.

If this were it, he would be content.

Kapi tried to push Updike out of the way, but he didn't budge. Theo too, in a moment of clarity ran to Updike and knocked Kapi out of the way. He used what strength he had left to add to the blockade, not thinking of himself.

Kapi blinked. All movement had ceased from Huggy, Theo, Updike and Blackjack. Updike and Theo now sufficiently turned to gold, blocking the cell's exit. Huggy too, frozen into a new makeshift prison for the demon. Tears in his eyes he couldn't help but cry, telling Huggy to stop.

"Kapi! Earth to Kapi! Are you alive?!" Tess shouted into the comlink, ignoring the sniffling.

You and Team Python weren't sure what was going on. Did Team Zig just get wiped out?

Kapi rubbed his eyes.

"M-mask." Someone said weakly as he stopped struggling against Huggy's golden grip.

"W-what?" Kapi said, rubbing his eyes.

Though he couldn't enter he could see into the cell through some space between Updike's legs.

"M-mas." Blackjack said, gasping, no air getting into his throat.

The gold arm that held him started to loosen, colour returning, changing back to an ocean blue.

It loosened on Blackjack, allowing him to speak.

"I NEED, hu, my, ha, MASK!" He shouted, in between pants.

Huggy, now conscious again, resumed his onslaught, tightening around Blackjack's throat. He squealed but otherwise didn't struggle. Huggy didn't know why he was alive, but it didn't matter. He was still saving Kapi!

Kapi turned and ran, looking around the lab for a 'mask'. It didn't take long to find it, hanging up underneath a lab coat. Two gaskets on each side, the front part of the mask depicted sharp teeth with two large fangs overhanging. Kapi recognized it, at the time thinking it was Blackjack's actual mouth.

"Kapi. Do you read me?" Tess demanded. "Are you alive?!"

"I am. J-just give me a second!"

He ran back, seeing Huggy continuing to try and kill Blackjack, confused as to why he was even alive.

"Huggy! Put this on him!" Kapi shouted as he threw the mask over Updike's shoulder.

Huggy paused, now confused at Kapi's request. He saw the mask. Stylized, he knew the gaskets were similar to what he'd seen. He himself was gassed once, a green cloud making him sleep. And it must do the same thing to Blackjack! Huggy grabbed the mask and jammed it onto Blackjack's face smothering him.

Head foggy and unable to see straight Blackjack tried to put on the mask, strapping it on.

"Huggy! Let go of him!" Kapi commanded. The monster did so, believing he saved Blackjack.

Kapi crawled under Updike and entered the cell.

"T-thank you." Blackjack said dryly coughing.

Huggy snarled at him, ready for round 3.

Now Playing...

Artist: Body 13

Song: Blank Moments Torn [Excerpt]

Link: https://youtu.be/3Rws4U0xZ1I

"Huggy wait!" Kapi shouted. Huggy did so but kept his eyes on Blackjack. He jumped behind Kapi, standing threateningly behind him, one arm around the catboy.

In control again, Blackjack tried to get up. He stood upright, wobbled a bit and fell.

"Ugghh. Y-you didn't happen to see my cane around?" He said in a low hum. His voice sounded hoarse. Kapi had to pay close attention to just make it out what Blackjack said between his gravel delivery and shredded vocal cords.

"I don't, I don't think so." Kapi said, anxiety clouding his voice.

Blackjack paused, as reality started to set in again. That voice. He looked up. His eyes hadn't adjusted to the light yet, nor his sights straightened. As he looked up he saw the silhouette of a catboy standing behind the monster.

"Ka-" He coughed, talking unfamiliar to him. "You are Kapi. The one with the contract."

"Can you heal them?"

"Heal who-oh." Blackjack's eyes settled on the large figure blocking the cell, another one standing behind it. Both were made of pure gold, having transformed minutes ago.

"Are they...dead?" Kapi asked, fearing the worst.

"No. My magic is still weakened, I cannot kill anyone that way."

"Here." Blackjack tried standing up only to collapse again. Kapi and Huggy stepped back, the monster still not trusting him, no matter how weakened he looked. With no other recourse he crawled to the end of the cell, grabbing Updike's pant leg to hold himself up.

Blackjack placed a hand on Updike's chest as his eyes glowed. Slowly colour began to return, Updike himself nearly collapsing as he started breathing. He almost toppled over backwards but Huggy caught him, also inadvertently saving him from knocking over Theo.

"The antidote." Updike coughed. "It worked...?" He stopped, eyes settling on Blackjack. His first instinct was to kill him, but he caught himself. Blackjack's eyes, though tired looking were focused. He knew Blackjack had returned to sanity.

"You did."

Blackjack nodded slowly, sitting on the ground. "I did."

Realizing that Blackjack saved Updike, Huggy let go of Kapi and jumped to the cloudman, holding him in a tight hug.

"If you would." Blackjack said, motioning to Theo. Updike stepped out of the way, allowing Blackjack to cure Theo. He did so, placing a hand on Theo and eyes glowing.

Theo's reaction was much more vibrant, the man immediately resuming movement and moving frantically. He panicked then stopped himself. He touched his face, just to make sure he was alive. "I...I am alive! KAPI YOU DID IT!"

"AH!" Theo shouted, seeing Blackjack. He stepped, tripping over. As he shot frantic looks at the others, he realized not only had Blackjack gained sanity but had brought him back too.

Having to heal three separate people, Blackjack lost his balance and fell again. Only now did he realize how sore he felt. From the chains to the beating, he took he felt battered. Determining it best to stay on the ground he adjusted himself, sitting upright. He hung his head down.

"All of you. I am truly sorry. Really. If there's anyth-"

"What happened to you?" Kapi asked, forthright.

"I can't-" Blackjack took a deep breath. "I can't breathe this air. When I do, I go berserk...as as you saw."

"And what exactly are you doing here?" Updike asked, crossing his arms.

"The Family. They kidnapped me. Removed my mask. It's been a blur since then."

"Let me guess. You can't remember anything?" Updike asked, bemused.

"I remember vague images. There were three of us when they held me here. They had me hooked up to that machine at some point..." Blackjack said, pointing towards the holding tank. "And after that they moved me back and forth."

All of a sudden Huggy understood that not only was Blackjack not an enemy but a friend, having gone through the same treatments as he. Probably not exactly the same but Huggy didn't know the difference. He felt the two shared a kindred now. He lifted a paw, handing it to Blackjack. Confused, he shook it, Huggy nodding at him that now he understood.

Blackjack felt his back. "Indeed. It did happen. I can still feel the wounds. They extracted energy from me."

Solazar spoke up asking Kapi to continue the mission, but Updike shushed him, more curious to Blackjack's story.

"What kind?" Updike asked, serious.

"Demonic energy. It's why my magic did little to you all. I don't have much right now."

"Any idea what they could be using it for?" Updike's expression turned grave. "And who were the others?"

Blackjack sighed. "I don't know the other two they had with me. I never saw their faces. My mask was removed and after that I cannot recall." Some energy returning Blackjack stood up. "I don't suppose either of you brought food. I do not believe I have eaten since my arrival."

"I, uh, have some treats for Huggy." Kapi said awkwardly.

"I shall pass." Finding his balance Blackjack hobbled his way to the lab desk. He started ransacking drawers looking for anything. He found a few vials and beakers of various liquids which he took one look and downed.

"Are you sure you can consume that, Mister Blackjack?" Theo asked, weirded out by Blackjack's complete disregard for his safety. Blackjack had no problem just pouring the contents right into his mask. Theo still wasn't sure what to make of the demon.

"He's a demon. They can eat dirt and still be fine." Updike said. "Who captured you?" Updike continued his questioning. "And how?"

Blackjack shook his head. "I cannot recall the man who did. He was not someone I recognized."

"Perhaps it was Daddy?" Theo suggested.

"No. It was no member of Family I'm aware of. I am not sure how it was done either. I fell upon seeing them. Whether poison, magic or asunder I was unable to fight back."

Updike shook his head. He had plenty more questions but also knew the operation more pressing. He just puffed.

"Heh. I take it you do not like me." Standing, Blackjack felt his energy rapidly depleting. None to spare he sat down again, taking deep breaths through his mask.

"Forgive me if I do not like you demons." Updike said curtly.

"Then I apologize for making you all come out here for me."

"Oh, uh, sorry we actually aren't here for you." Kapi said, twiddling his thumbs.

"Indeed, Mister Blackjack. We should actually continue our mission."

"Yes. You are a random encounter we came across." Updike said.

Blackjack pulled off his mask just a bit and ate one of the vials. Chomping loudly, he asked, "Huh? You aren't. Then why..."

"Well, we heard your screaming and thought it important to check out." Theo said.

"Then what ARE you doing here?"

Everyone looked at one another unsure if they could trust him.

"We are, um...exploring?" Theo said.

"Heh. You don't need to lie about it. I can guess why. Kapi told me about this crew. You're here to act as reapers for this Family." Blackjack swallowed the glass as if it were nothing.

"Then we shouldn't have to answer, should we?" Updike said.

Even though Blackjack saved him, Updike couldn't bring himself to trust or even like him. Blackjack was a demon currently in the Family's Underground. Whether or not he was being used as a guinea pig was irrelevant.

"Then you may as well take me along. I've nothing better to do here and escaping on my own won't be easy. We find any more food and I'll take out whomever you need."

Huggy's eyes lit up, happy about a new friend, especially a fellow 'experiment'.

"Hmph." Updike said. He looked at Theo and Kapi.

"I don't see why not." Theo said.

"He's cool. He did help me back then."

"Very well. But you had better not pull anything." Updike said sternly.

"I am in your debt, and I am not like the Family. I believe there are rules to this game. What they did to me was a violation of Hell's laws. I shall fight alongside you." Blackjack made his way to one of the tables and flipped it, ripping a leg off in the process. Using it as a makeshift cane he joined Team Zig.

"Can we um, take a break?" Kapi asked.

"A break? We have an important mission to do-"

"No. I just witnessed you all die, and we've been running around like crazy. I WANT A BREAK." Kapi demanded.

Updike shook his head. "Fine. 15 minutes. I need to call TGG anyways."

Blackjack joined the party!

Cauda 07 - Bear Witness

"Soon as I'm done here, you're on! I still run that arcade."

Kapi had played a lot of video games in his life. Shoot-em-ups, sports, puzzles, whodunit and more. He never really touched RPGs in general, much less dungeon crawlers. Yet this is what his fate was, wandering with a 4-men group in a dark tunnel...Or 5-men. Blackjack lagged behind, the demonic gambler still recovering from his earlier wounds.

Moments ago, they had left the lab, the group taking a break.

"Who exactly are all of you?" Blackjack asked as he walked behind. "Aside from friends of Kapi." He walked with a limp, using the ripped table leg as support.

Surprisingly, the tunnel remained unguarded. Somehow none of the other demons bothered to check on the violence. Unspoken, Updike determined it a result of demons already used to Blackjack screams. Probably just someone torturing the beast. They must think.

"My name is Theodore. I am a roller coaster designer. And that is Huggy, monster supreme and strange being." Huggy nodded in agreement, knowing at the very least he was being introduced.

"I see."

Blackjack looked to Updike.

"I remember you. Got jumped at my arcade. I had nothing to do with that by the way."

"I am aware. Gabriel Updike. The Greater Good Triumvirate Leader."

"TGG, eh? Figured you were some agency. Had your agents crawlin' all over the place. A lot snooping into me too. Didn't much appreciate it." Blackjack gave a weak smile.

"Hmph. Your kind is at odds with my people. I hope you are aware this alliance is only temporary."

"Heh. Much as I'd like to debate you, I'm gonna have to pass. Don't get the energy." Blackjack nodded, understanding just who Updike was.

Reaching the 'hole in the wall' they made it to the actual basement. The two guards the crew ambushed hadn't been replaced. Next to the hole leading into the basement were two shelving units on either side. Both were full of glass jars, preserves, jam in each. While most on the team didn't care, Blackjack noticed immediately. Finally. Some proper food.

Kapi took a seat on one of the stools, pulling out his phone and finally taking 15.

Supporting himself on the shelf Blackjack grabbed the first jar he saw. Strawberry jam. Not even ripping the lid off he pulled his mask ajar and downed the whole thing, biting the top off.

Glass shards and red jam dripped onto his clothes, themselves already stained in dirt. He did so with a few other jars containing pickles, dry soup ingredients and powdered milk.

Huggy too, joined in, fascinated by Blackjack's ability to pick up and just start consuming. He felt peckish too. He knew he couldn't eat glass, so he tried ripping the jar lid off, to no avail. He turned to Updike, pleading eyes to help him.

Updike moved to stop him, shaking his own head, but Kapi stopped Updike. After all, he essentially owed Huggy his life. Furrowing his brow, he motioned for Kapi to open the jars.

"Status update, Team Zig. Are you all alright? Can I get a status update?" Displo rang in.

"We are in adequate condition. Reporting now. TGG, listen in." Updike began as he explained to Solazar the past few moments.

Huggy had entered a new world of discovery. He had seen jars at your house and Pomona's farm but never got into them. He could always smash them but after leaving the factory and not having to eat scraps, vowed to never eat glass again. With Kapi opening them he was finally able to sample the vibrant colours with each jar. He knew he had a lot to try after this. He downed the jars he found most interesting, some having a sharp taste while others reminding him of scraps he ate back at the factory, but more in date.

Kapi continued to scroll through his phone, catching his breath from all the excitement, taking a breather as the team paused. He needed it. Silently, he felt a bit safer with Blackjack present, feeling just a little stronger.

Theo stood by, checking on his drones and deployed the final magic booster the team was meant to.

Satisfied, Blackjack threw the emptied jar upon the ground, said jar not smashing upon impact.

Having filled the COs on Blackjack, Updike concluded his conversation. Solazar was likewise skeptical of Blackjack's inclusion but nonetheless agreed with his accompaniment. Solazar found Blackjack's case file on an IRIS database, noting his gold ability. Updike planned to knock the archdemon out if he turned against them. He knew that in Blackjack's weakened state he could take him easily. He also had a brief communique with Abbott, letting him know they will have to take Blackjack in for questioning.

Updike did have a question for the gambler, however. "Blackjack. Could you always turn people to gold?"

"Yes." He said, eyes perking up, smiling behind the mask. "How do you think I got so rich?"

"Hm."

"Relax. I only ever did it with those who couldn't pay off debt." Blackjack said, still grinning.

"I see." Updike changed his strategy to possibly kill Blackjack later. "Can we hurry this up?" Updike asked, tapping his foot.

"We should." Blackjack said, taking the mask off and wiping his face.

Huggy too nodded, full of food now. He ate sloppily, plenty of jam staining his fur, giving the appearance he had been wounded.

Kapi let out a sigh of relief and stood up, stretching his arms out.

Having sufficiently wasted enough time the five of them entered the proper basement. They'd only gotten a brief look before going off to save Blackjack. Now stepping into it their first impression was that of a factory floor, not an area beneath a mansion.

Concrete lined the ground and walls making the 'hole in the wall' appear sloppily made. A generator, an electrical cylinder half in the ground covered in various markings and indentations, was powered off. Large as a car, it looked to provide power to surrounding machinery of industrial tools. They all remained powered off.

A few conveyor belts were strewn about the place, as were some large nondescript machines, cables and hooks hanging from the ceiling looking to help move stuff around.

The room was far bigger than the tunnel and bigger than what Kapi expected the 'basement' to be. He could even see a part of the floor continued into another room, past the walls, dividing the space in two.

It must have been two floors combined into one with how high the ceiling was.

A thick layer of dust covered everything, giving it all the same grey tint. Clearly nothing here had been used in some time.

Huggy's trip so far has been him thinking he returned to the factory to find friends. After having the preserves, he started to have second thoughts about his location. Seeing this basement smashed those. This looked just like the factory. Even smelled like it too. Musty and old. Not dirty, just unkempt.

Large fluorescent lights lit the room, though poorly placed they left corners and spots dark. Many were off as well; time having defeated them.

A metal staircase in the corner led upwards to a shipping-container shaped box that acted as an overlook for the whole floor. Lighting inside was far better, a long horizontal window giving view of the floor. It looked to be the only way out and a connection to the ground floor of the mansion.

Updike surveyed the place. Rather defensible. Two key exits. Wide open space. Possible weaponization of surrounding material. Plenty of hiding spots.

He stopped.

"What is it?" Kapi asked first. Updike put a finger on his chin as he looked around.

"Our next step is to reach the surface, find Retro and release those kennels. With such a large team I don't believe we stand a good chance at keeping stealthy. Especially now."

"What to do you propose?" Theo asked rather diplomatically.

Updike surveyed his hologram. S still in contact with them appeared.

"Yeah, bub. What's the plan?" He asked snarkily.

Updike ignored him, shaking his gauntlet which in turn made S fly around, hitting a virtual building.

"Geez. Why you gotta be so mean Starline. You really are-oh. Hold on. Business calls!" S shouted as he vanished.

"As I was saying. We should split up here." Updike began. "Kapi, Huggy and I shall make way upstairs and locate and retrieve Retro. We'll bring him back. Then I and Theo shall make way to the vault to assist Team Python. Until then, Theo and Blackjack shall remain here, defend the antennae and wait until we return."

"Very well. I could use a rest." Theo nodded.

Blackjack nodded, putting his makeshift cane away and sitting down.

"Theo. I propose you use your drones to destroy the kennel fence. Is this adequate?" Updike asked Theo.

"Yes, absolutely. Gives me something to do as well!"

"Kapi? Any objections to the plan?" Updike asked.

"Do I have a choice?" He sighed.

"Yes. You can stay here and Huggy and I do this."

"...Nah. I'll come. For Connor." He said steadfast.

"Then let us depart."

Making their way towards the stairwell they departed, Blackjack and Theo staying behind, creating a makeshift work area. They returned back to the lab to grab furniture so they could better work.

"So, Blackjack. Is that your actual name or an alias? I mean, you mentioned that you run an arcade. The name Blackjack-"

"It is. In fact, my real name."

"Fascinating!" Theo said as the two's conversation trailed off.

"I still don't trust him." Updike mumbled as the three made their way upwards.

They entered the shipping container shaped room, finding it designed like an actual basement. A few couches around, a large screen TV, dartboard and some photos plus artwork on the wall, table with a board game on it, a bar counter, few cabinets behind it and not a soul in sight.

"He's alright. He really did save my life."

"Perhaps...but that wasn't out of good will, I'm sure. You had to exchange something for it correct?"

Huggy stuck close as they walked through the basement. He watched as Updike moved without a sound. He hadn't noticed until now, but it surprised him. He was stealthy for his size.

"W-well yeah. We helped him in the arcade, win a bunch of high scores. S and Nikku helped too."

"Hmph."

Updike stopped at the next stairwell. Just several steps up another door, leading out of the basement. Closed, he could see light pouring through the cracks.

Updike double checked the map first, then motioned for Kapi and Huggy to stay put. He needed to check for guards.

Kapi watched as Updike climbed up and peered into those cracks, and then just slightly opened it to look around. Satisfied, he motioned for the two to come behind him.

"Now Huggy. We are going to give this to you. See if you can smell anything similar to it. And DO NOT run amok. Stay close to us. Got that?"

Huggy nodded.

From out his backpack Kapi obtained the blue hoodie. According to Ace it belonged to Retro, one of his favourite ones. Huggy held it close to his face, inhaling whatever scent still remained on it. His expression changed to focus as he breathed. Handing the hoodie back to Kapi he closed his eyes, allowing his nose full control. He could smell it, just faintly and mixed heavily with dirt. It was upstairs. Nearby possibly.

He opened his eyes, motioning for them to go forward. Updike nodded and opened the door, doing one last check before entering the mansion. They followed suit, Kapi getting a good look.

He had joked with Boyfriend about Girlfriend living in a palace, but never really thought it was like that. They were in the West Wing. Red carpets lined the floor, royal in colour and not a scratch on them. Huge banners hung from the ceiling covering rows of windows. In-between the windows, pillars lined the walls, holding up the magnificent archway that stretched above them.

It really looked like a palace.

Now Playing...

Artist: Kataskopos

Song: Boring Dystopia

Link: https://youtu.be/vuRvknARbps

Likewise, Huggy was in awe, though it lasted brief as he returned to his mission. He knew he wasn't in the factory anymore. There was no way he could have missed this. He motioned down the hallway to the right. They followed as Huggy led them to one of the windows. Pushing the curtain out of the way they found the window ajar, a cool breeze flowing in.

He pointed outside, getting ready to climb out. Updike stopped him, grabbing his paw. Though the window vertically long it was not enough for Updike to fit through. A grid-like grating covered it too and though it added a gothic pattern to it, made it impossible for anyone but Huggy to go through.

"We'll find another way."

Doing another quick check to see if they were seen, Updike took out the hologram again.

A notification on it rang that Team Python was enroute.

According to the map, the window let out northeastward. A backdoor exit existed which as well would also put them out east, just south of the smoldering ruins and west of the kennel. It would take a few more hallway turns but they would reach it.

In silence they continued traveling, Updike treating this with upmost stealth. Huggy considered himself the stealthiest, being able to comprehend he was practically built for it. But watching Updike maneuver with no sound, creep behind corners and command he couldn't help but be impressed.

Kapi stayed close too, a little more alert than usual. Despite anxiety bubbling below he could feel Huggy and Updike's determination. It helped him.

Likewise, Updike stopped at a corner, putting a hand behind him. He peered closely over.

"Two demons standing guard." Updike said quietly. "Stationary. Blocking a doorway outside." He reached into his coat pocket and drew a black pistol. Taking out a silencer as well he screwed it on.

And while Huggy was nonetheless impressed by Updike's stealth he felt as he if should one-up them. He put a paw on Updike's arm and nodded at him. I'll show him how its done.

Understanding instantly, Updike nodded back, putting away his handgun. Huggy winked at Kapi, who remained unsure.

Huggy scampered upwards, climbing to the ceiling. He had no issue grabbing a hold of the arches up top and moving past the chandeliers. He concealed himself in those arches, pulling himself across the top as he crawled towards the demons through the ceiling. They remained ignorant even as Huggy hovered directly above them.

Updike bent over to watch the scene, Kapi ducking and watching from below him.

Using his long arms he reached down and knocked on the door. The two demons turned, figuring someone wanted to be let in. As one opened the door, Huggy reached for the other one. Arm wrapping around their neck he quickly hoisted it up without a sound.

It happened so fast that the other demon, not realizing nobody was out there turned to see himself alone. With a thump, Huggy dropped the unconscious demon on the ground. This alerted the remaining guard though he only had about 2 seconds before Huggy repeated himself.

Smothering it with his paw he waited until the demon lost its consciousness. Kapi and Updike turned away, figuring they didn't need to see the violent scene, and also to check behind them.

"Beep?!" Someone exclaimed from further down the hallway. Having been detected Huggy hissed at whomever saw him.

And in that same instant, Kapi ran out into the hallway, knowing full well whose voice that was, and that Huggy wouldn't waste a second wasting them. Updike reached to grab him but didn't move fast enough.

Indeed, he saw the scene just as it was doing to unfurl. Huggy, making his presence known, ready to take out the nosy neighbor.

"Huggy don't!" Kapi shouted, startling the two of them.

Updike stayed where he was, face palming himself that Kapi would just reveal himself.

"...beep?"

"Huggy, to me!" Kapi ordered, tapping his knee. He sighed, now getting a better look at who witnessed the 'execution'.

Messy blue hair though not dressed in his usual attire. He wore a brown shirt, light brown X designed on it, with blue pajama pants and brown slippers. Clearly not just passing through he was staying the night.

Boyfriend.

He had a surprised look on his face. First for the unconscious demons, second for the anorexic cookie monster and third for Kapi, a friend he hadn't seen nor heard from in months.

"H-hey." Kapi said meekly. He waved a hand, though made it look terribly awkward.

"Beep??" Boyfriend exclaimed, still confused.

"Uhh. I can explain." Kapi stammered. Huggy, still unsure of Boyfriend's status moved off the ceiling and slithered behind Kapi. He stood upwards, one arm in front of Kapi and the other in the air. He posed, standing as a dog would defending its owner. He hissed hushly.

"Bebop...Bop?"

"T-that's Huggy."

Between the sheer excitement this trip had wrought and this surprise Kapi didn't notice his ticks outright. He simply didn't have time to faulter. He also knew he would completely crash later, constantly having to remind himself to not tense.

"He's, um, a friend."

Huggy looked down to Kapi expectantly, not moving until Kapi ordered him to. Feeling Huggy's gaze he looked up, nodding at Huggy. He was okay. Huggy understood, nodding towards Boyfriend.

"Bebop. Beeeep! Bobeep!"

"S-sorry. There's been so much going on. Just been, uh, busy with other stuff." Kapi said. He did feel bad, having not contacted Boyfriend at all since he joined the Carnival. But he wasn't sure he could trust the blue-haired boy then either.

"Beep?"

Kapi looked away. Though not technically anything Boyfriend specifically did drew him away, he simply couldn't get him involved. If Daddy caught even a whiff of BF with the Carnival he would have been killed. It was just the way things turned out.

"No, I, um, came here to um..."

Updike listened in. Hearing Boyfriend speak he knew exactly what he was too. He was of two minds. He knew Boyfriend's innocence, but he also knew the sheer amount of luck Boyfriend had, that he survived many encounters with abominations. So many in fact he believed Boyfriend to have powers of his own. He never disagreed with Annie about his 'evilness', Updike just didn't care.

He had considered putting an APB on Boyfriend for a long time but never got to it. But. Despite the kid's 'possible monster-ness', Boyfriend never really did anything evil. He had no casus belli.

Updike kept quiet, figuring his presence better left unknown. He paged Solazar to listen in, a one-way to Kapi's link. He heard Kapi make some excuse and Boyfriend immediately see through it.

"Fine. I came to end this." Kapi said sadly. "Daddy put a hit on me. He put one of my friends in danger too, Connor." Kapi didn't mention Blackjack's contract purchase. It was a half-truth, and a partial lie that Kapi pulled off.

"Beep?! Beeeeeeeeep!"

"Sorry. I didn't know. I was scared, thought I was on my own." He felt bad lying, but Boyfriend believed it. So much in fact he was angry Kapi kept it from him.

"Beep! BEEP!" Boyfriend held up 3 fingers.

"He's here too?" Kapi thought about it for a second. That if Boyfriend, Girlfriend and their friend, joined they could bum-rush Daddy and take him out, ensuring the operation be a success. Though a Hail Mary of a plan he really didn't want to get Boyfriend caught up.

Before he could answer Huggy bent down and petted Boyfriend, rubbing his yellow paw through his blue hair. Huggy found it mesmerizing, finding the boy cute.

"Boop?"

"I don't know what he is. Me and uh friend found him. He's helping me and..." Kapi stopped, almost giving away Updike's role.

"Bebop! Beep."

"Thanks. But I, uh gotta do this alone. Plus I-"

Something whirred by the window fast, something else in pursuit of it. It was close enough it caught everyone's attention. But just as quickly as it flew by it vanished, its pursuer close by.

Listening in to the comlink Updike heard Theo complaining about something chasing his drone.

Kapi took a deep breath.

"I do have others helping me. I just..I didn't want to get you and GF involved. I mean, what if Daddy found out. He'd kill you both!"

"Bebop." Boyfriend understood, though still felt a little betrayed. But, just as quickly as disappointment came, it vanished. "Bebop!"

"Soon as I'm done here you're on! I still run that arcade."

Boyfriend nodded. "Bebop!"

"Yeah! And a rematch. Once I'm done with Daddy, I'll be the real man of this house! Just you watch!"

"Beep boooop!" Boyfriend exclaimed.

Updike turned round to see what the excitement was. Whatever they were talking about, the two were having a good time.

He saw them embrace in a hug, the two holding each other closely. At least, sort of. Huggy's body obscured part of the scene. He glanced the other direction, just to make sure no demon had spotted him.

As they let go, Boyfriend spoke, a snicker in his voice. "Bebop!"

"I will. If anything happens I swear I'll call you."

Boyfriend nodded in agreement. He gave a fist bump to Kapi before leaving.

"Beep!"

Kapi shook his head. "No sorry. I haven't seen him. But I'll keep watch!"

Kapi waved as Boyfriend continued on, presumably back to Girlfriend's room. Right in the direction of....Updike.

He remembered too late Updike standing at that corner, only managing to get out an "Oh!" as Boyfriend rounded the corner coming face to thigh as he bumped into Updike.

Updike cleared his throat.

"Bebopbop!" He turned back to Kapi.

In one feel swoop, Updike withdrew his handgun and silencer, aiming it at Boyfriend.

"Y-yeah, he's with me too."

"Beeeeep?!"

"W-What?!" Updike exclaimed. "No-I-How do you know about Whitty?" Now confused as to how Boyfriend knew him and Whitty he withdrew his gun. He was so getting an APB on him after this.

Boyfriend just turned to Kapi, him waiting on some kind of answer.

"He's okay too. Just, uh, leave him." Kapi said to the both of them, unclear who he spoke to.

They book took it their own way.

"Yes. Just pretend you hadn't seen me."

Boyfriend just shrugged. "Beep!"

"The...Laughing Plan?" Updike asked.

Boyfriend nodded. "Bebop."

"Well if you hear anything lemme know." Kapi said.

Before he left he shot one last glance at Kapi, a mix of approval and confusion. Figuring if Kapi got TGG involved he must know what he's doing.

Updike shook his head as Boyfriend walked off. Once the boy out of earshot, he complained. "Well. At least you didn't blow the entire plan." He walked right past Kapi and Huggy to the door.

"Well, what was I supposed to do? Huggy woulda killed him!"

"..." Updike continued on as he pushed open the doors to the yard.

Though the rain ceased, everything remained damp. Even the concrete walkway stayed a dark grey, water seeping into its cracks. Fog started to form, adding a white glaze over the compound. In its early stages it obscured any smoke still rising from the ashes of the church.

Peering out Huggy found it most fascinating, thinking it steam. He'd seen something similar back in the factory days but only once; when a pipe burst, spraying hot water over everything. At the time he thought it meant the placed cursed and stayed away.

Had he been able to explain his theory, Updike would have agreed on the cursed part.

The drone that whipped past earlier was gone, no sign of a chase. Looking around Updike saw some patrols, the barely visible ruins of the church and cliff in front, leading out to the watery enclave they entered from. They were too high up to see Ace, but Updike knew he was still there. Probably moping.

He also felt a chilling sensation. That he was being watched. Not wanting to appear suspicious he stopped looking. Through the comlink, S started explaining the guard routes.

Kapi saw the same things, though without the chilling sensation. He did, however, notice a shadow very briefly jump off the cliff. So brief, he felt unsure if he saw it or not. It made him feel earie, causing a shiver.

"You feel it too?" Updike murmured.

"Huh?"

"Nevermind. Where to Huggy?"

"Has anyone been able to get in touch with Ace?" Solazar rang through the comlink. "He's been silent for too long."

Cauda 08 - Rogue Waves

"I got a clear shot."

Moments Earlier...

Blackjack exhaled quietly, bones still aching. It didn't help that he and Theo practically dragged the whole lab into the basement. The two now sat at a table. One half covered in drones and a laptop stolen from the lab, then configured by S to give feeds. Theo had also obtained a night stick from the lab which became his primary weapon. It laid on the table as well.

On the other half, more jars of preserves. Blackjack pigged out and though he could feel strength returning his body demanded rest.

He remained seated, allowing tire to overtake him.

Theo stole glances at the demon a few times. Though the team had its fair share of 'unholy' beings this was the first time he came face to face with a real demon. There was that red fellow whose name Theo already forgot but he knew that large man was just a regular guy at heart. Not to mention that Blackjack already bested him. He knew full well not to get too interested in Blackjack. Years of engineering taught him to separate work from hobby.

He still wanted to know more about Blackjack, however. "So are you really a demon?" Theo asked.

Blackjack puffed smoke, not in anger but unconsciously. "Yes. What is your deal anyway? You seem awfully too full of wonder for what you people are here to do."

With the laptop now displaying a feed of the drone, Theo activated it and the blades whirred to life. Strapped to its bottom were a series of bombs Theo could drop on command.

"To tell you the truth I have never really dealt with the paranormal before. I always knew such a world like this existed but never had the opportunity to, how should I say, sink my teeth into it...well, willing opportunity. I do not count ghosts. And this is my first encounter with a real demon too. This experience has been very eye-opening for me." Theo confessed.

Blackjack snickered. He appreciated Theo's forthright attitude. Under normal circumstances he knew he could screw with him. But being that it was Theo's team that saved him he felt otherwise.

"Well, us demons each have a function. Mine is for greed. I can tell you don't care much for monetary possessions though. I know greed exists in other ways, but I deal mainly with the gambler."

"I have my own sins and vices though you are correct. Money has never been the reason I do the things I do."

Blackjack nodded. He sat back, looking at the laptop as Theo began to control it. It took flight carefully moving upwards as Theo controlled it. Whirring past the stairs it slowly entered the bunker above. It was something to watch as his body worked through the sudden amount of salt and sugar Blackjack hit it with.

As Theo moved the drone cautiously, he continued the conversation. "Updike informed me they have hellhounds up there. That is what I need to destroy."

"Yes. Vicious creatures. Far worse than what they have guarding."

"I've noticed the guards here aren't that intelligent."

"Indeed." Blackjack puffed. "But they are stupidly loyal and dangerous in groups."

Moving into the mansion proper Theo found the window Huggy opened. Figuring it the best approach he activated a laser on the drone. Cutting through the grating it gave him an exit. With fog forming around Theo couldn't see much, condensation starting to form on the lens. He flew up, getting a better look at the compound.

"That's them." Blackjack pointed to a spot on the screen. Two long buildings forming an L with a small dirt yard in the area between them. Thanks to the hellhound's natural fire it glowed above the compound.

"Indeed!" Theo moved the drone closer to it, hovering just above the kennel now. Before he could inform Updike of its position he saw a blur fly past it.

Theo flinched. Blackjack noticed though wasn't paying attention to the camera the moment. "Did you see that?"

"Mhm?"

Theo whipped the drone into a 180. Further away he saw someone flying, rapidly approaching the drone. No time to study their features he whipped another 180 and started flying away, hoping the fog would conceal him.

"My goodness! We are being followed!"

He flew it straight ahead, hearing something behind him whipping close.

"S! Someone is pursuing me, please identify!"

"Huh? Bro you're too high up. I can't see anything. It's probably just some bird."

Hoping he was correct, Theo dove the drone down, whipping it past where Kapi and Boyfriend currently spoke. Nearly smashing into the window he hopped the pursuer would do so, unable to catch its sharp turns.

"Oh I see you now!...And you're gone." Nikku said.

Whipping the drone due upwards Theo stopped, hiding in air within a patch of fog. Looking around he saw nobody in pursuit, the drone hovering by its lonesome.

"Perhaps it was a bird." Theo sighed.

"Perhaps." Blackjack replied still not paying much attention.

"Do you see anything Team Lisp?"

"Negative." S replied instantly.

Currently.

Cold air flanked either side of Ace, the monstrous anthro lying back on the boat's seat. Arms stretched out on either side around people's shoulders that were not there. He just stared up, head hanging out the boat, looking up at the black sky.

Nary a star in sight, light pollution and clouds blotting out celestial bodies. He'd put the book away, now lying closed on the boat's table.

Turned off the comlink too, the constant chatter getting to him. He knew he would turn it on again, but not now.

Though optimism was drilled into his head by Theo he couldn't shake the feeling of dread that covered him. As soon as the team left, all that hope washed away leaving Ace with his mind as company.

With the water's waves his thoughts drifted, circles in his head about how it got to this point. He became so focused on his thoughts going back in forth that he didn't notice his arms freezing the boat's couch, ice shards emerging from out of them, tensing up. So focused in fact, he didn't hear the church's explosion. He didn't even hear the rocket boots behind, someone land and ask him a question. An innocent voice, more curious than malicious and more confused then annoyed. With Ace not responding, he asked again.

"Um. Hello?"

Now hearing it, Ace twitched, also noticing the damage he did to the boat.

"Theo? That you?" He asked aloud.

"Uh, sorry. I don't know a Theo. What are you, um, doing here?" It was a young voice, synthesized in nature but full of curiosity and intrigue. This person was interested, unsure what to make of the scene in front of them.

Ace ripped his arms off the boat and scratched his elbow absentmindedly. That moment he forgot all about the operation, the thought that he should be worried not crossing his mind. He was just some anthro lying on a boat in the dead of night sulking about his missing boyfriend.

Shifting in the seat he turned around.

Standing on the ground, stones throw away from him stood an android or robot. Ace knew that much by the simple grey cylindrical arms and legs with black spheres where the joints would be. He wore a white undershirt with 16 on it and orange shorts, reminiscent of a basketball jersey, at about average height.

No normal head, instead he had a television screen on it, simple with no fancy buttons or designs. Just two antennae atop it, frayed and warped by time. In its black screen a glowing blue face, two eyes and a confused mouth glowed forth.

Ace sighed, disappointed it wasn't Theo. Remembering the mission his first thought was to freeze the bot...but he didn't seem evil. And Ace just didn't feel like it. The bot had done nothing to him either.

"E-excuse me?" The bot asked, further weirded out by Ace's slow response. Just make something up.

Ace coughed. "I just came with here to think. Clear my mind."

"Oh! This place can be dangerous though. The uh, owners don't really like people coming by...You heard of them?" The bot asked, himself sounding unsure. He still didn't know what to make of Ace.

"I have." Ace sighed. "Are you with them?" Ace asked, pointing upwards.

"Not really. My name's Hex by the way!"

"I see." Ace said solemnly.

Just by standing close to Ace, Hex could feel his servos shiver. Ace was emitting cold air. Looking into his eyes Hex saw a deep sadness within the anthro. From the bags under his eyes to rings around the iris, the anthro was under a tremendous stress.

"I come here sometimes too. Just to sit and listen to the waves. Can I join you?"

"Sure, whatever." Ace mumbled, turning back to the other side of the boat.

Hex had no problem helping himself up, jets on his feet allowing him to ascend and land into it. He looked intently at Ace, wondering what to say.

"Thanks." He said happily. "My friend said he could feel your sadness. I came to look for him."

"Sorry I guess."

"What's your name?" He asked as he helped himself into the boat, taking a seat across from Ace.

"Ace."

"That's a nice name! Do you, um, wanna talk about it? What's wrong I mean. Cause, you look, uh, sad." The bot had an artificial voice which couldn't help but sound cheerful.

"Hmph." Ace started. "What's their to talk about? I screwed up. It's all my-" Ace stopped, choking up.

"What's your fault?"

"They took him. They took my boyfriend." Though Ace just mumbled and stared downward, Hex could feel the air getting colder by the second.

"Hey it's okay."

"It's not!" Ace stood up. "It's all my fault! Is that what you want to hear! It's my fault they took Retro! This whole thing, stupid, stupid, STUPID! All I wanted was to help him! I NEVER MEANT IT TO GET THIS WAY!"

As if being robbed, Hex rose his hands up, caught off-guard by Ace's outburst. Seeing just how loud he was being and Hex's shocked expression, Ace sat down.

"I-i'm sorry. I-I'm a, was a journalist." Ace stammered, fidgeting with his hands. "The Family. They took him. They...made me take him. And I came to get him back. Save him. But I couldn't even do that. Had to get them..." Ace stopped, realizing himself giving away the plan.

Figuring Hex would be laughing at him he just looked away. Instead, Hex's response came differently.

"I, uh. Know the people here. Not that close! But I could try talking to them. What's his name?"

"You could? I-it's RetroSpector. Demon. Shades of blue fur." Ace said, a little hopeful.

"Sure Ace! Let me try."

Ace watched as the antennas on Hex's head flicked upwards. A symbol of a phone appeared on his face, indicating he was calling.

"Hey P! I'm good thank you. Yeah. I'm there right now. He's just looking for his friend. Did you ever catch a demon. Retro? Blue fur."

Ace watched closely as Hex spoke, not fully convinced this bot could just get him back. At the same time, he was desperate, silently praying this would work.

"You can? Yeah I'll ask of course. I'm gonna trace it in a min yeah..if you think so. Thanks P!" He said cheerily as his antenna twitched.

Ace wasn't sure what to make of the call. He watched Hex carefully, in a curious look. Hex seemed to pause as something flickered on his face.

"Do you have, uh friends up there looking for him?" Hex started.

Ace nodded.

"Ah, that's it. See my friend up there saw them, got worried they were burglars or something. He's gonna see if he can get Retro for you and help them out."

"He-he can!?" Ace said, getting up.

"But it's gonna take some time. He sounded kinda relieved actually. But..."

"N-no. Don't tell me Retro's-"

"Dead? Nah." Hex said, finding a little humour in it. "It's kinda a strange request. Can you help me with something?"

"Anything. Just say it." Ace said. He felt a burning within. Screw the team and its mission. This was the closest he'd gotten to getting Retro back!

"I detected a signal earlier. Like people talking and listening to us. And they blew up the church I think. I'm gonna backtrace it. I think I know who did it."

Ace nodded intently, listening.

"Have you ever heard of a group called IRIS?" Hex asked.

Ace shook his head. It sounded like something he might've heard Updike mention once. He never did pay much attention in those lectures. All he knew was that TGG meant The Greater Good and he was in the Carnival. Wait. The mission! Ace recalled what his original goal was. But he was so close to getting Retro he didn't care a lick about the team. Not to mention, Hex's friend would help them too. He said nothing, waiting eagerly on Hex's next words.

"You really never heard of IRIS?" Hex wanted to be sure.

Ace shook his head. He repeated in his head. The Carnival. The Greater Good.

"Well they're bad people. They made me, dumped me into the trash then tried to capture me! And I think they're back for me. I'm going to trace them just to make sure." He said sternly. "Can you help me?"

"I'll protect you. I swear! But I, uh, don't know anything about computers."

Hex smiled. "I'm gonna sing to them. I'll show them real friendship. Can you sing with me? It'll trace out their signal. I'll find out where they are hiding out! Then we'll send my friends after them!"

Ace nodded. "Yes. For Retro!"

Hex smiled and pulled out a golden microphone from his jersey. "For Retro!" He declared.

And so a duet started, the waves as backing instruments.

Erst.

Recalling the scent, Huggy closed his eyes and sniffed around. Scents were noisier here, many new odours adding to the tapestry. He had to focus.

In a round robin, Kapi, Theo and the others stated they haven't seen Ace. Kapi threw in a snide comment about him probably sulking on the boat, freezing his comlink by accident. S added in a comment that he could hear him singing in the distance, figuring it was just some way of trying to keep calm.

"Leave him. We have other routes." Updike said.

"Very well. I will keep trying to get in touch with him." Solazar said.

"Well, he hasn't moved at all. Er, hasn't left the boat. His link appears to be moving a little." Tess added.

Damp grass, concrete, demonic cologne, cooked food, the hoodie. Huggy narrowed in. Due west towards the mailroom and south near the building labeled 'Mearest Records'. Huggy motioned towards that direction, Updike and Kapi following. With Nikku commanding, they avoided the guard routes.

The mailroom was in sight, a strange looking concrete building with one visible window. They stayed off the stone path, preferring to stay on the side, close to the manor and bushes that surrounded it. They stained Updike's suit and dampened Kapi's hoodie and Huggy's fur but otherwise nobody complained.

"Argh! Finally! I lost 'em." Theo stated on the comlink. "I got a good view of the kennel. I can bomb the fences when needed."

"Good. Stay idle for now."

As they rounded the mansion the trio came upon the southern buildings. Mearest Studios and the Hangar. Though the fog blocked the studios, the hangar remained in view.

A long building, stylized after it's namesake: an air hangar. A curved roof like waves, simple plaster walls and a massive door that stretched across nearly the entire wall.

During the investigation nobody found proof the Family were in possession of aircraft. Rather it was Tabi who explained they filmed music videos there, the hangar containing massive green screens and equipment.

Huggy pointed to that building. That is where the scent originated. He exclaimed through sound.

Updike paused to watch the squads, making sure ample paths were available. Perched down in the grass, Kapi couldn't help but find Updike crouching and watching awkward looking.

"Are you sure you're stealthy?" Kapi asked.

"Why wouldn't I be?" Updike responded; eyes still focused on the guard's movements.

"Well, I mean. You're a big guy, and bright white. You stick out more than..more than anything."

"I blend in with the fog. They cannot see me. It is you I should be worried about with your blue, red and yellow hoodie."

Kapi rolled his eyes, ever stubborn Updike was.

A ding rang on Kapi and Updike's comlinks. Such a chime only played when a new person joined the conversation, and only on their first time. Since during practice they always had them on that all the dings had ceased.

Neither needed to question who called them as they identified themselves instantly.

"This is Sakuroma of the Seven Deadly Sins. Team Zig do you read me?" A voice called, distorted by an accent, it sounded as if the speaker was playing two voices at the same time. Of course, they had spoken with her enough to know that was just what she sounded like.

"Loud and clear." Updike responded.

"You're being followed. Can't make out exactly who but they've been hovering above the roof, watching. That Smile fellow is nearby as well, hiding."

Kapi started to look up, curious to who it was. Updike stopped him, forcing him to look back down. He felt it and knew full well not to tell the person they knew.

"I got a clear shot."

Updike glanced towards the buildings far south of the compound. Between the night and fog they were invisible, dark rectangles against a dark sky. He knew the Seven Deadly Sins had taken up position somewhere there.

"Wait for now. Keep sights."

"Sure."

Pushing Kapi along, Updike and Huggy took a step towards the hangar. He stopped, then pulled on Kapi's hoodie, an additional instinct kicking in.

"What's the big deal?" Kapi complained.

"We're gonna go the other way."

Huggy let out a quizzical sound. Why just abandon the path? Figuring it was part of some plan Kapi motioned Huggy to follow as they traced back their steps.

As they passed the door, Updike stopped. It was as if something held him in place, like he had hit a wall.

'What are you doing here?'

Having been trained to the arts of the paranormal he knew himself ready for anything. So when a voice popped into his head he listed four possibilities.

1. Insanity, onset from stressful conditions. Impossible.

2. Intrusive thoughts, onset from madness. Unlikely.

3. Mind projection. Someone speaking with him.

4. Airborne parasite. This isn't fog.

Kapi froze, now hearing the voice too. Huggy looked around in confusion as to why his two friends stopped suddenly.

"U-Updike? Was that you? Did you hear that?" Kapi asked, bewildered.

Judging by the other reactions, Updike determined it number 3. Now was a matter of if it was a parasite, lovecraftian, telepath, magic or some other being.

'It doesn't matter what I am. I thought you were here for Retro, but it seems I am wrong. You aren't IRIS either. You are The Greater Good.' The voice echoed in Updike's head.

"Hold on you two." Updike said.

'Wise move. I can already see you all care little about Retro. Now answer my question. What are you really doing here agents?'

'Why should I? To invade such privacy is disrespectful. If you have a question, introduce yourself.' Updike thought.

'So thinks the man that broke into my domain and freed one of the prisoners. Maybe one of your friends will be more welcoming.'

"Uh."

Huggy let out a strange sound as he looked at Kapi. Updike turned to see Kapi, a blank expression on his face, looking nowhere.

"Now." Updike muttered into his comlink. He kept his mind blank as could be, allowing instinct to take over.

Now Playing...

Artist: Twenty Knives

Song: Crows Ghost

Link: https://youtu.be/X8njtBlYEk4

With several people listening in Updike's command was recognized twice.

Though the buildings behind were black and formless, if one looked they would've seen a small spark shoot from it. If they were closer they would have heard a loud gunshot. Updike didn't need visual confirmation, the sound heard when a bullet struck someone in the back above him.

Someone winced in pain as they toppled downwards, hitting the roof then falling off, landing on the grass in front of them.

A humanoid, wearing a purple jacket. Before Updike could ID him a second spark, this time from the kennel set off. Theo's drone dropped the payload, a series of firecrackers and a grenade, specially modified by Whitty. Burning at temperatures far exceeding normal, it melted through the chain-link, cheap iron turning to liquid.

It destroyed the drone with it, though Theo always planned for that outcome.

This scene did not go completely unnoticed, bright lights alerting the hell hounds, already on high alert from previous explosion. With the hole present they charged through, fangs bearing at all who got in the way.

Thinking purely on instinct, Updike realized what he'd done. He didn't realize the Theo still on the line, taking the 'now' as 'drop the bombs'.

"What happened?" Kapi stumbled, Huggy catching him.

"That. Hurt." The guy in purple growled as he got up.

Hell hounds started to approach, Huggy now taking note. He hissed at them, a primal outburst.

Reacting quickly, Updike grabbed Huggy and Kapi's hood pulling the two aside. He ran back heading fast towards the mansion. Huggy growled at the dogs in the chase, a few stopping, actually intimidated. Seeing an open door, Updike quickly tossed Kapi inside, running in and slamming it behind him. Huggy understood, helping Updike hold the doors closed as Kapi lay on the ground, confused as to what just happened.

Hellhounds lunged at the door, trying to bite through it. A few targeted the purple-jacketed man though it didn't last long.

The two felt something huge hit the doors, like a blast. Whatever happened silenced the dogs, all barking stopping in that instant.

"What the hell did you guys just do?!" S shouted. "It's a bloodbath out there. Got some purple guy, hellhounds and that troll thing duking it out!"

"What's going on?" Kapi asked, getting up. Nerves aside he knew he had to be strong, as evident from the worried look on Huggy's face. He looked around, wondering why he was back inside.

"We need to head back to Theo. We're dealing with a potential Hofnarr-level abomination."

"W-what does-"

"We gotta go now!"

"What the fuck is all this?" A shrewd, angry voice shouted from the end of the hallway.

Kapi turned, eyes going wide as they could at the sight. Makeup back to perfection, black jacket, red dress, knee-high boots and garter belt, Mommy Meanest.

"You!" She declared upon seeing Updike.

Without so much as even acknowledging her, Updike stuck his hand into his coat pocket, drawing the silenced pistol. He immediately opened fire, Mommy just narrowly ducking out of the way. She screamed in pain, at least one of the bullets hitting her kneecaps.

As she ran away, Kapi looked to Updike, completely lost.

"RUN. NOW!"

Without looking back they ran, Huggy picked up Kapi and placing him on his back. He had no idea what was going on but seeing Mommy reminded him of the executives he'd seen before. And if Updike shot them they must've been evil he decided.

Updike envisioned the plan. They screwed up. Shot Mommy who apparently was ALREADY back from hell and pissed off a potentially insanely powerful-

As he ran he heard S mention something on the comlink.

"Damn. It's like war out here. Haha! Pompom get me some popcorn!"

Outside the dogs stopped moving, forming into a battalion. Standing at the front was that purple guy.

"AH!" The purple-jacketed man felt something jam into his back. It hit hard, cutting through the jacket and into his 'flesh'.

"I WON'T LET YOU HURT MY DAUGHTER!" Smiler screamed; axe lodged into the beings back. Control on the dogs was lost, the hellhounds returned to their previously ravenous state, a few lunging at the mindreader, attempting to bite through.

Knocked down, Smiler swung the axe down and up, practically attempting to cleave him in half. Dogs attacked Smiler, the trollge also being torn apart by jagged teeth. It didn't stop him.

For a brief moment it looked at if the mindreader had been defeated. A flash of purple energy hit all around him. He got up and adjusted himself, floating upwards as he looked down at Smiler.

"You've outlived you're usefulness. Be gone."

Smiler stood strong, not once faltering as the purple guy rose his hands. He smiled. "You'll never find her. You'll never win."

As they ran Nikku delivered the news. "Uh..that purple guy just killed Smiler."

Updike kept running. He wasn't scared of the Family. Never was. S, in his limitless eldritch energy and Nikusa's psychopathic tendencies didn't bother him. Running from the mindreader was different.

He felt fear.

Dealing with some kind of abomination. Something he knew he didn't have the weapons to kill. He kept running, keeping breath because it would only take a few seconds for that purple guy to catch up.

Cauda 09 - Mindreader

"I, ha, see no reason to surrender."

S laughed. "Heh. Thought you said he couldn't be kil-"

"He was content with his life. That changes their durability. What we did was unprecedented-" Displo started.

"Alright, spare me the lecture. Either way he's gone." S said.

Running took absolute precedence. They had only turned a few hallways from the basement, getting back would be easy. As they ran Updike reformulated a plan.

With a mindreader in midst, all attempts at sentient penetration would be impossible. Though Updike knew how to counter mindreader he wasn't an expert in it. There was no telling how much of his mind or Kapi's was read. If so, the whole operation would be over. Can't assume that yet. Perhaps he didn't know himself. The plan must continue as normal.

Therefore sentience needed to be eliminated. Theo's bots would scour and obtain the location of RetroSpector. From there they would either secure him or get S to traverse outside and sneak him to the mailroom. No doubt that abomination would be looking for us, it would allow for S to move easy.

Once glance back could see they weren't being followed thankfully. Not to mention Updike just shot Mommy Meanest, the Matriarch of the Family. She knew his, Huggy and possibly Kapi's face now.

Rounding the corner, Updike saw the basement door in sight. One dash for it, he closed the door, jamming his gun into the handle, barricading it.

Motioning the two down, Updike proceeded downstairs, entering the recreational room where the three took a breather.

"What just happened? Did I black out? D-did you just shoot Mommy? Who was that purple guy?"

Updike stayed one knee on the ground, watching the door from below.

"You did. Mind-controlled. Yes I did shoot her. I don't know."

"B-but how?"

"I'm not sure. The Family is in possession of a telepath. I did not anticipate this. You two, head to Theo downstairs. I shall be with you shortly."

"Updike. Status report. Are you all okay?!" Tess shouted from the comlink. "You shot Mommy?" Updike heard what might have been Annie on Tess' end as well. "She's back?"

"I will provide a report soon. Moving to rendezvous with Theo and Blackjack. We may have to flee. Covers blown." Updike said.

With nobody attempting to bust open the door he walked back up and retrieved his firearm, double checking the shots. 3 bullets left before reload.

"TGG." Updike said into the comlink. "This is triumvirate Updike. I am requesting a storage pod, maximum level security, hofnarr class. Send Sterling and Abott. Location, beach, centre-north of Dearest Compound. Bring ESP and EMP bombs."

"On it's way Gabriel. Stay safe!" One of the trio shouted back.

"Updike. What does that mean?" Solazar asked.

"Means we are dealing with a telepath. Simply put we cannot take it down by conventional means. This is not something any of us are capable of dealing with."

"Psh. I bet I could take him." S chimed in.

"...If you see him, engage."

Now Playing...

Artist: Howl in the Typewriter

Song: Sinister

Link: https://youtu.be/iDwNQRDcSis

"OoooooonnnnZZZZZZXXXXXXXGCRCH------" The comlink cut out. A sharp tone hit Updike. It lasted a second, followed by a robotic message.

"Signal to main base has been lost."

"By jove!" Updike could hear Theo say from below. They must have heard it too.

Updike turned, bolting out of the rec room to the factory floor.

"Are you all okay?" He shouted as he practically jumped down the stairs.

"Yes. I've lost connection with the feeds however."

Updike scanned the room. Theo hunched over the laptop on a table they brought in. Blackjack sat at the table, a number of empty jars surrounding him. He had been in the preserves it seemed. Huggy, fascinated by Theo's machine looked over and was watching his feeds.

And Kapi stood still, the catboy frozen in place. He stared aimlessly, suddenly coming to a halt.

"Everyone be prepared." Updike said.

"You've trespassed onto this property, freed its prisoners, struck our guards and assailed me." Kapi said menacingly. His voice sounded deeper than usual, no emotion present. "I thought you were here for Retro, and I would have escorted you and him out." Kapi looked at Blackjack before returning his sights to the team. "But I know you are here for another reason. Before I read this anthro's mind I'm giving you a chance to tell me the truth. Identify yourselves and purpose here or this will end far more violently then you anticipated."

Kapi's eyes turned a slight red as well, glowing faintly under the light. He looked to the team, eyeing them conspicuously.

"Why are you really here? Tell me."

Huggy looked onward, confused by Kapi's vocal change. He cooed quizzically, wondering what happened. "Huggy stay away from him." Updike commanded.

"Kapi? Are you alright?" Theo asked, hesitant.

Updike looked up to the office above, expecting to see someone watching them. Nobody was visible. He moved quickly, grabbing a rock on the ground and chucking it through the glass. It smashed through, landing somewhere inside.

"I am not there weatherboy." Kapi said, glaring at Updike. Updike crossed his arms, not the least bit impressed at the show.

Kapi stared at Theo intensely, the catboy's face turning to fury. "No answer?"

"Don't identify yourselves then. I already know." Kapi shrugged. "I can read this boy's thoughts like a book...Updike. I can see what this is. The...Carnival. The...what is it?" Kapi raised a hand and stood still.

"What is going on?" Theo asked Updike.

"Mind-control. Be careful and maintain a blank mind. You too Huggy. Think of nothing." Huggy nodded though couldn't help but be confused at the order.

Updike looked back to Blackjack.

"Hmph. I believe this is the being that caught me." Blackjack responded, getting up.

"All of us, we'll split up, look for where he's being controlled from. But keep a blank mind!"

Kapi cleared his throat. "Carnival. Your trip ends here. Turn back around and leave or you shall deal with my wrath."

Theo stopped, not moving.

"Who are you exactly? Taking over our friend is rather alarming but I, we can take him." Updike asked.

"I am the head of security here. And I can see from this boy's mind you were behind the bombing. And others. You don't even care about Retro."

"So says the abomination who kidnapped a demon and trollge and tortured them." Updike said, referring to Blackjack.

"Oh? Are you some lawyer, Updike? Kapi doesn't seem to think so. Thinks you're a religious nut working with some cult. I protect this place. What we do here is not your concern."

Theo turned to Updike, wielding his baton.

"You've lost your chance. You will join the others here." Theo said monotonely.

He was nearby. he had to be.

"That's enough sherlock." Theo said, the controller reading Updike's mind.

"My. There's a lot in here. Fascinating. TGG? Oh? Heh. So the Carnival's a facade? Or rather. You seem to think the Carnival a front while Theo and Kapi here genuinely believe in it. Pathetic."

Updike felt a sharp pain in his head, it was trying to get in. He lurched forward and socked Kapi in the stomach, a last-ditch attempt to break free. Kapi reeled back, the catboy collapsing. Theo lunged for Updike, swinging the baton at him. It struck his back, though ignoring the pain didn't react. Blackjack intervened, knocking the table into Theo, the laptop hitting the engineer.

"Blackjack! Huggy! Find the-" Updike fell. A second later he stood up, turning to the monsters.

"I gave them a warning. Now they're coming with me. Blackjack. We are done with you. You can leave. As for you Huggy, Kapi seems to think you are a dog who barely understands anything. You can leave as well."

Huggy looked to Blackjack, terrified that his friends were no longer his.

"I'm gonna take them to Daddy. They will become subjects in tonight's plan. You two have nothing to do with this. Leave."

Huggy shook his head.

"Don't be stupid. There is no way you can win this. I'm giving you two a chance to be free. Get out of here."

"Huggy, was it?" Blackjack turned to the tall monster.

"You remember how to save me?"

Huggy cocked his head, not sure why Blackjack would ask. He nodded.

"Good. Remember that."

"What are you planning?" Kapi spat.

Now Playing...

Artist: Kev Bruce

Song: Dr. Jekyll and Tweety Bird

Link: https://youtu.be/W508cGLeFZ0

Ripping off his mask, Blackjack took a deep breath of air. "AAAAAH!!!" He screamed, his eyes turning red. As the air filled his lungs, so did his mind with insanity.

He fell, snarling as he adjusted to his berserk form.

Huggy felt a sharp pain in his head that lasted a few seconds. As quickly as it appeared, it vanished.

Updike took a step back. "Strange. I can't read you. Whatever, this is so stupid." Updike drew his pistol and aimed for Huggy. Such an attack failed, Blackjack blocking it. He lunged in his way, sinking teeth into Updike's arm, drawing blood.

What should have shone pain resulted in no reaction from Updike.

Huggy darted around him, remembering what Updike said. Find the source.

"Arg." Updike said. "How does this lumbering fool move so fast?" He looked to Huggy as he shook off Blackjack, launching him into a wall.

Huggy looked around and took a deep beath. Smelled Kapi, Theo, Updike and Blackjack. Baton in hand, Theo charged Huggy, ready to stab with the baton.

He jumped up, easily grabbing the hook above him. Scampering up he hoisted himself upwards giving him a full view of the basement. Darkness covered him, the monster using it to hide as he sniffed. All the corrupted team could see was Huggy disappear into the ceiling.

Theo didn't have any moment to react as Blackjack charged him, biting into the baton. It snapped in half, metal chips flying everywhere. In the chaos the laptop was smashed as well.

Updike shook his head. "Huggy! Use your nose! Just find where he is!" He looked around at the scene.

"What the hell?" Kapi exclaimed. "How did you break free?!"

Noticing Blackjack fighting Theo, Updike smiled. "Heh. Good idea."

Satisfied, Huggy looked around, eyes and nose scanning for anything odd.

Rusted metal. Dust. Dirt. Smashed jar of preserves. Theo's cologne.

Kapi rose, a purple swirl surrounding him. Lifted into the air as if gravity a suggestion he floated around until he narrowed on the amorphous black figure hanging onto the ceiling.

"You can't run." Kapi said. He flew downwards, grabbing the hook and chain. Huggy barely dodged when Kapi flew around the back, attempting to wrap the chain around Huggy. He leapt to another hook, landing easily. Kapi charged him again, intending to repeat the motion. Huggy instead attacked, feeling bad in doing do. He waited till Kapi got close enough then struck. Jamming his fist into Kapi's mouth, practically hitting his throat.

Kapi threw up, retching from the invasion of Huggy's furry arm. It stunned the catboy. He fell down, Updike catching him.

"I got him Huggy! I got-...back." Updike said. Placing him down on the ground he looked back at the room above. Gotta be there. He started running towards it, the sharp pain returning. He was losing it again.

Blackjack had managed to knock Theo out, slamming the man into one of the machines, creating a sizeable dent in it. Magic still recovering it was a blessing Theo hadn't started to turn to gold again.

With the neighbour out, Blackjack turned his sight to Updike.

"Whatever. It's like watching chicken's fight. Couldn't care less if you thieves wanna kill each other." Updike said, wiping his mouth as if he were the one that threw up.

Blackjack charged at Updike, the two locked in a game of mercy.

Ignored for the time being Huggy smelled around.

Dried motor oil. Mold growing in a damp corner. Dust dispelled from one of the machines. Cotton. Washed fabric. Something undiscernible. Detergent.

Huggy watched as drones flew up around him, little helicopters and machines. Glancing down he saw Kapi, vomit dripping down his chin with a malicious grin. He held Theo's remote control and activated them all.

Focusing back on his nose he focused on the cotton scent. Nearby. He needed more time! The drones flew by, one flying right into Huggy's arm. The propellor blade sliced through the fur initially causing damage but becoming lodged within the fur. Huggy jumped down, wincing in pain before more drones could hit him. He ignored the blades lodged in his arm and adjusted himself.

Keep smelling, Huggy thought, ignoring the pain. He felt worst before. This was nothing.

Freshly laundered clothing. Tea. It had to be there. Close enough. With the detergent scent and that undiscernible one. Strange.

"What are you looking at?!" Kapi shouted to Huggy. Had the controller not changed Kapi's voice he might have been alarmed. Huggy could tell the difference.

He scampered to the wall where the basement split. That's where the scent was the strongest. Focusing exclusively on the scent he dashed through the door and lunged at the first thing he saw. Some blur of purple.

Sinking his teeth into it, Kapi, Theo and Updike fell. The drones did too, smashing into the concrete ground.

Updike regained consciousness first, noticing Blackjack attempting to dig his claws deeper into Updike's other arm, already breaking skin.

Grogginess replaced by pain, replaced by anger Updike ripped the demon off him, grabbing his throat and closing his fist tightly. Deducing that Huggy had won, he determined next would be to neutralize Blackjack. He looked around the floor for his mask, carrying him to it, ready to re-attach.

Theo and Kapi awoke seconds later, now feeling the impact from combat. Theo groaned in agony, instinctively raising the metal stick that used to be a baton.

Wiping his face Kapi looked around. No sign of the other team member.

"Where's Hug-"

Huggy flew threw the wall, impacting it as he was forced through. He landed just beyond, unmoving and panting heavily. Kapi ran after him, worrying if he was all right. The drone that was previously lodged in his fur was gone, destroyed in the impact.

From the hole made by Huggy flew in someone.

The team looked up, now seeing their true opponent.

Humanoid in appearance he was surrounded by a purple glow. It looked to give him the ability of flight.

His skin was jet-black with hints of purple, appearing almost as a digidevil. His 'hair' was sparks of purple energy that flickered off him as though he were on fire. No mouth, nose or facial features were visible sans his eyes, purple in colour and glowing white around.

His hands too gave off the same almost incorporeal appearance, dark purple and glowing slightly. He wore a deep blue overcoat, white undershirt, dark purple pants and black shoes which covered his energy-appearance.

He stood for a few seconds looking over the team.

"So...Team Haskell of the Carnival. We meet at last. My name is Psychic." He paused. "I admit. Your dog-thing is smarter than he looks. I'll give you another chance to surrender." His eyes narrowed. "But that's all you'll-"

"Hold on." Updike said. Theo looked on as Updike managed to choke out Blackjack and forcibly hold him down. Once the demon stopped struggling he re-attached Blackjack's mask, even doing some chest compressions to resurrect the demonic gambler.

Theo noticed now the state of Updike's arms. Slashed up, partially bleeding and bruised. In Blackjack's struggle Updike even started to turn gold again. Theo couldn't help but be impressed. Updike was incredible at hiding his pain.

With Blackjack breathing again and the gold disappearing, Updike sighed.

"I, ha, see no reason to surrender." He said, wiping his forehead.

"A-Are you serious? You're all seriously injured. I've barely even used my power and you won't give up? You won't be able to lay a finger on me. I mean. I saw your minds. None of you even have a backup plan!"

"We have a mission and will see it complete. We are getting Retro."

Psychic looked over Updike, a curious look in his eyes.

"Hm. You have a lot of determination for some demon you've never even met. And even so, I can see you're just here to rob my family. Well. That's the official part. I can see your heart you want them dead."

He stopped, a confused look on his face.

"I see no reason to give up." Updike said.

"I don't get it. I can't detect any malice in your words. Just righteous indignation. You people actually think you're doing the right thing? You've come here to murder my family? And you think that's right?" He said, a little understanding in his voice.

"That's a lie. You see our minds. We aren't here to kill anyone. Just put those villains in their place. It's not about the money." Updike said truthfully. He held his arms out. He had nothing to hide anymore.

Only now did Theo realize his laptop and drones smashed. Psychic could feel a sadness flow through him, keeping quiet to maintain a strong facade.

Psychic scanned the rest of the team, giving off a smirk. "Indeed. That was a test. I know you aren't here to kill anyone. Regardless I cannot allow you to proceed and steal from my Family. Understand that. You are all coming with me now. You can explain to Daddy what you intended to do."

"I understand." Updike tried to retain a blank mind. "But I won't back down." He readied his fists. Theo and Kapi looked to Updike, worried that he just doomed them all. They knew this fight was impossible. Psychic knew that.

"No. Know when to quit. Even your allies know this is an impossible task."

Updike didn't move.

"Pft. Your funeral. Your mind is so deep. When I get back in there I'm going to explore. I can see you have much to say. Let's go then."

"I do. I even have an idea of how we can defeat you."

"Oh? Is that so? I'm not seeing anything in your mind." Psychic focused on Updike, curious as to what exactly Updike was thinking.

Psychic looked up the terms backup and plans in Updike's mind, finding nothing of the sort. If Updike had a plan he must have just come up with it and not even thought of it as a plan.

"It's an old technique. Used for dealing with vampires. But it always works."

Psychic scanned the minds of Kapi and Theo. Neither knew what Updike was talking about, the two were more focused on their own injuries. They were in pain.

Blackjack as well, his consciousness returning, had no idea what Updike was planning.

Kapi picked up Huggy, hoisting him partly around the shoulder. Though the monster felt like injured he still retained consciousness, feeling well enough to move. He let out a groan.

Psychic turned around to look at Huggy, wondering if the monster knew Updike's plan.

"Theo. Kapi. Huggy. How are you all feeling?" Updike asked, a sly smile on his face. He picked up Blackjack, helping the demon up.

"Uhh. I am okay, Updike. I don't think we can-"

"Nevermind that. You'll know when the time comes." Updike said, cutting off Theo. He glanced to Kapi who nodded, though looked just as confused as Theo.

"Well. Go ahead. Do this 'powerful anti-vampiric' move!" Psychic said, eyes excited.

Updike hoisted Blackjack onto his back, whispering to hold on. Blackjack nodded with confusion.

He kneeled and placed his hands on the ground.

Some magic spell? Technological feat? What could he be doing?

"RUN EVERYONE!" Updike screamed and dashed for the hole. Understanding it, Huggy charged as well.

Theo took a second to process, but he got it. Flee. Throwing the stick at Psychic he hoped it distract him as they ran.

It did little, Psychic stopping the stick, dumbfounded.

"R-running away? That's it?" As Updike left, Psychic read his mind. That was actually his plan. Just flee. Psychic thought for a second if he should just let them but stopped. He had been itching for a fight. He wasn't just going to let them go. Especially since that shot and tried to maim him. He wasn't going to get humiliated too. His eyes narrowed, and he flew the hole in pursuit.

Now Playing...

Artist: Malebolge

Song: The Border of Styx

Link: https://youtu.be/ACYw6eL2UU4

"NO! YOU AREN'T GETTING AWAY THAT EASILY!" Psychic shouted from behind them.

Updike led the group, running fast and ahead. He had already memorized the path there and knew it well enough to follow back. Blackjack held onto his back, already dizzy from the running.

Any demons spotted were swiftly kicked into the water.

"Updike! What is our plan?" Theo shouted from behind him.

"We get out of here! Then figure it out!"

Theo turned back. Huggy carrying Kapi was in hot pursuit close behind. Though a distance away he could see a dark purple blur coming too.

A sharp tone echoed in everyone's ears. "Connection re-established." A robotic voice said.

"Team Zig! You're alive!! Status report! We can't reach Team Python! Have you made contact?!" Updike heard Solazar shout.

Updike activated his comlink. "Fleeing! TGG WHAT IS YOUR STATUS?"

"Almost there Gabriel!"

"Connection to main base lost." The comlink said, cutting off all communications again. Though Updike ran, he knew what was behind them. Blackjack, still holding on turned back, seeing Psychic close to them, a glow of purple energy surrounding him, propelling him forward, an angry look on his face. His mere presence distorted electronics.

"GET BACK HERE! WE AREN'T THROUGH!"

Kapi, focusing now, noticed Psychic getting close. "H-how do we kill him?!"

"He's pure energy! I DON'T KNOW HOW TO DEAL WITH IT!" Updike shouted, the running finally getting to him.

"THAT'S RIGHT! SOON AS YOU STOP. ROUND 2!"

"Aha!" Theo said between breathes. Running off pure adrenaline he could hardly feel his legs as they carried him. "My bots! They might be able to-AH DAMN!" Theo pulled off his backpack, remembering that the drones were already gone. The bag remained empty except for the extra bags and batteries stashed in the bottom.

Theo tossed the bag behind him, hoping the batteries or something would hit Psychic. It made him stop momentarily. Just to grab control of them.

Psychic propelled the batteries forward at bullet speed, some of them impacting Huggy in the back. He screamed but kept moving, understanding Psychic was the most dangerous thing he'd ever met. In his mind, Psychic was the owner of the factory, the one responsible for his woes.

To them running was a blur. A mishmash of dark tunnels, trying not to trip into the water and dealing with Psychic was all they thought of currently.

At some point they had run into demon patrols, but Updike knocked them away fast enough, the others not dealing with them either. It helped to at least slow down Psychic who apparently rescued them, at least, that's what Kapi thought.

Rocks and stones hurled behind them, hitting into Theo and Kapi's back. Both winced but the running propelled them. Between adrenaline and fear they scarcely knew how they had the stamina to make it.

Relief came when they saw light from outside, that they had reached the end of the tunnels. With no time to rehearse, each took their own way. Updike stopped, quickly passing Blackjack to Huggy as he scampered downwards, Kapi screaming in the process. Theo grabbed the rope and slid down, praying the gloves would protect him from rope burn.

It left Updike alone. Getting into a football stance. His hope now would be to have Psychic charge him and throw the energy-being off.

Indeed, Psychic was close behind charging at a fast speed. Intentionally, he slammed into Updike propelling the cloudman out of the pipe flying into the air. Updike had nary a chance to react before he could hit the ground.

But before Updike could impact he stopped, a purple glow allowing him to safely land.

"Ohoho, you aren't getting off that easily." Psychic said as he lowered himself, landing on the beach.

"Psychic?" Hex asked. To him he saw an older gentleman sliding down a rope out of a pipe along with a gangly monkey-looking thing carrying two bodies. And a cloud launched out of a pipe too.

Ace got up, curious as to what the hell was going on.

Still on his back, Updike peddled back. He barely had time to notice Ace speaking with some robot when the plan hit him. He reacted so fast even he didn't have time to think it's possibilities.

"Ace! FREEZE HIM!"

Being shocked into a command, Ace didn't think on it either, Psychic having no foresight. Ace raised both hands and shot ice at the being, putting all his energy into it. Rays of ice and pure cold shot into the air, aimed at Psychic.

Between saving Updike, watching Theo and Kapi arrive, processing Updike's boat, the anthro looking on and Hex's question he didn't react fast enough to the beams.

S could manage such multitasking, being non-Euclidean. Psychic could not, his mind being the most regular thing about him.

The ice beams hit him directly, the immense drop in temperature slowing his particles down, converting from a plasmatic state of matter to one more common, solid. Psychic realized quickly that he was being frozen, doing what he could to stay warm, accelerating movement. He pushed forward, trying to fight past it.

Psychic crashed into the ground, ice stopping his flight. Hitting the ground the ice shattered, temporarily freeing him but Ace kept going, making it up in his mind this person was responsible for Retro's incarceration. Something about him seemed familiar to. He swore he saw this guy before.

Energy was exerted, keeping his hands and above the neck freed. He struggled as he looked up, grimacing as he tried to focus in on Ace. The ice built up around him, freezing him to the ground.

"Wait! STOP!" Hex shouted. He pushed Ace asunder, temporarily stopping the freeze.

Updike moved fast, jumping atop Psychic and pushing his head down into the sand. "Don't move. This is over."

"Pft. I can break out of here in an instant. This is far from over."

His eyes glowed briefly, and Ace fell down, getting up a second after with dyed purple eyes.

"Get off me before I freeze you and SMASH YOU INTO A THOUSAND PIECES." Ace screamed in a deadpan voice.

"WAIT! EVERYONE PLEASE!" Hex screamed. It was such a high-pitched scream that everyone stopped. He jumped in front of Ace, ready to take a hit for Updike.

"Stop the fighting! Please! Can someone tell me what's going on?!" He pleaded.

Now reaching the bottom, Huggy and Theo made it back, both damaged from Psychic's 'hail of rocks and battery' as well as earlier injuries.

Huggy dropped Kapi and Blackjack, the monster collapsing on the ground in tire, in desperate need of some water and air. He started to crawl to the water.

Kapi stumbled off to throw up again, the ride not being smooth. Blackjack too collapsed, the combo of glass in his stomach and salt-heavy preserves not agreeing with him.

"Kapi?!" Hex said aloud again, further confused by the situation.

Still pushing Psychic's head in the sand Updike looked up to the possessed Ace.

"Hex get out of the way." Ace said, eyes narrowing on Updike.

"No! Not until you stop this! I thought you said IRIS was here!"

Ace paused for a second looking at Hex, Updike and the rest. He sighed.

"I'll back down, but you are not going back in there." He lowered his hands.

Updike paused, thinking on it for a second. Much as he wished to complete this mission he knew the Family's power was nothing compared to these beings. Perhaps if he could recruit Psychic, or at least learn him. Either way, he knew getting back in would be impossible without Psychic's approval.

Before the Carnival, Updike would have instantly seen Psychic a threat, something that needed to be destroyed. But not, he found himself feeling curious, a nostalgic tinge that had things turned out differently he could have been a worthy ally.

He thought plainly, not a care if Psychic read his mind or not. There would be no lying to him anyways. That alone was enough reason to back down.

"I get it." Psychic said. "Now get off me."

"Fine." Updike said and got up.

Ace collapsed as Psychic left his mind.

"I appreciate the kind thoughts. I've seen your plan. As I said. No malice in it. That's the only reason I didn't outright kill you. Not like the last time some freaks broke into our place. You aren't common thieves." Psychic said as he got up, heating himself up to free the ice.

"C-can someone tell me what's going on? Psychic why are you fighting Kapi? I thought you said IRIS was attacking. I'm so confused!"

Psychic looked around. The team was in rough shape. He knew he could take them all if need be. But he didn't want to, not in front of Hex. And he felt confident enough Updike wouldn't try to backstab him.

"Oh IRIS is involved." Psychic said. "But not just IRIS. The Greater Good too. It's an outright ambush. How about you begin Updike? I've seen your mind, but I want to hear it from you. Why are you and your friends invading us?" Psychic sat up, preferring to stay seated on the ground.

Updike didn't think of betraying Psychic. He knew he was outmatched. He also knew the bot could intervene on Psychic's behalf, bringing an untold amount of help on the mindreader's side. TGG was still far off, and S wouldn't make it in time.

Theo saw a similar outcome. He knew there was no winning this scenario. He could scarcely comprehend a mindreader. Not to mention what untold horrors he could still unleash.

Updike as well sat down, the aches from the pain now getting to him. He wasn't bleeding anymore; Blackjack's gold inadvertently sealed his wounds.

He gulped large breathes as he recovered from that marathon. He spoke, knowing full well he couldn't lie. He tried once but between his own tiredness and exhaust Psychic saw through it. With no way around it he spilled the team, silently biting his tongue that he had to. He didn't know at the time, but his mind was awash with thoughts. It made it harder for Psychic to scan. So, under duress, Updike explained the purpose of the Carnival from Team Lisp's entry to his.

When he thought he had screwed up the team's chances, Psychic interjected. "I already had a feeling something was up when speaking to Mommy. She would never talk to me like that. You've had control of the surveillance for the longest time. I would have found out eventually."

"You didn't tell them?"

Psychic shook his head. "Couldn't. Mommy and Daddy insisted not to be bothered tonight. And I was helping Daddy during that bombing. Big plans. Continue."

As Updike spoke, the others regained their bearings. Ace, now back to normal hopped off the boat, helping everyone back in. While he had no clue what happened he subtly blamed himself for not listening on the comlink, guessing the team requested his help earlier.

"And then we would have fled."

"Hpmh." Psychic said as he crossed his arms, closing his eyes in thought.

Hex was wide-eyed, in awe at the amount of planning. Updike revealed the names of most of the team, Hex surprised at the sheer amount of people on the team he knew. Though Psychic could not read his mind, Hex exclaimed that he did know some of them.

"S-so you guys aren't IRIS?" Hex asked.

"IRIS provided funding and some cover. They are just a beneficiary of us." Updike said. He wondered who exactly the robot was, wondering why he would care about a detail like that.

"That's Hex." Psychic replied instantly. "Your plan. That's it?" Psychic asked expectantly. Silently he re-read Theo and Kapi's minds, feeling something left out.

"I am an open book." Updike said curtly. Psychic could tell he felt the invasion of privacy. He saw things he knew Updike didn't want out, but nothing he cared to reveal.

"Why did you pick today to invade?"

"Solazar suggested it. It was the day after two of our team member's work concluded for the summer."

"..And that's it?"

Updike crossed his arms. "I don't know what your expecting. Whatever you know I don't, was never the reason we chose this date."

"Then I guess it's a coincidence. A complex plan but it would never work. You of all people should know how this Family is. And after today it won't matter."

"But it could have stopped them. I mean, without all that money and the gate-" Hex started to say. Silently, he had found himself agreeing with the team's actions, even going beyond his own hatred for IRIS. Updike didn't sugarcoat anything.

"Oh Hex. You're always so innocent. Realize that when Daddy finds out about this there won't be any survivors."

Kapi joined them, dizzy as hell and body aching from his own hits. "It would have worked." He mumbled as he joined the conversation. Hex helped him onto the boat, still surprised Kapi was there.

"Please. Even you were successful in robbing us, he's gonna come back with a vengeance. Especially after tonight."

"Yeah well we had to do something! They tried to kill me! Tried to kill Pompom with a cannibal!" Kapi shot back.

"Hold on." Updike said, raising his hand. "What is happening tonight?" He picked up on Psychic mentioning it a few times.

Psychic looked up. "Something that Family's been planning for a long time. The...?!" Psychic paused. "You already know?"

"It was mentioned once. The Laughing Plan."

"O-oh yeah. What is that anyways? Boyfr-" Kapi asked.

"Boyfriend told you. Of course he did. I can't say. I'm bound by duties."

"Not even a hint?" Updike asked.

"No. Nevermind." Psychic paused, thinking on it. Updike smiled, himself getting an idea. He saw Psychic take a quick glance to Hex, realizing something. Psychic pulled out a phone, looking at the time.

"You better hope that's true Updike." Psychic spat.

"Here's what's gonna happen now." Psychic stood up. "You aren't going back in there. You aren't returning to your base either. Consider them good as gone. Instead, you get as far away from here as possible. You will take Hex. Do that and I won't mention you to any of the Family."

"W-what?" Hex asked.

"When that plan goes off it won't be safe here anymore. I was going to take you, Boyfriend and Girlfriend far from here myself but alas. I don't have time for that now."

"Just what is this plan?" Theo asked, having listened in.

Psychic shook his head. "You people chose the worst date. Any other day and I would not have thought a second about getting you all arrested. But today. You bring all these innocent people. They're all gonna get hurt. Get out of here before I change my mind."

Updike nodded, though Psychic could read he already had other plans.

Warn the others, report back to the base for either some kind of contingency or recruit all available TGG and IRIS forces. Not to mention the Belladonnas. Possibly have to evacuate or prepare for a war. The Family is possession of something. Bioweapon, disease, nuclear armament, will begin research asap... Updike's mind was awash with thoughts. Psychic stopped reading it.

Updike started up the boat.

"I'm not going!" Ace shouted. "Not till I get Retro back!"

He ran to the back of the boat, getting onto the couch at the end. He aimed a hand at the engine, ready to freeze it solid.

Everyone looked to Psychic except Updike who was already thinking of a plan to dis-arm Ace.

Psychic furrowed his brow. "You people really are something else. I will retrieve him and deliver him here. You have TGG people coming. Have them take Hex. I don't want him here with the plan activates."

Psychic got up, his energy lifting him off the ground. "Tell those jokers in the mailroom to leave too. If they are still there in 20 minutes it is going to get ugly."

"You should come with us after!" Hex said. "If it's as bad as you say, then come too!" He said worriedly.

"...." Psychic said as he flew off.

"So wait you really aren't here for me?" Hex asked.

"No. I don't even know who you are." Updike added.

"Crap." His eyes went wide.

"What is it?"

"W-well it's just I saw a signal and traced it. I thought it was IRIS trying to attack me." Hex twiddled his hands, really just clasps that could open and close.

"Go on." Updike said flatly.

"Well I tried to tell Psychic the address so he could investigate but he was busy, so I called Mommy at the mailroom and she brushed me off. So I told Daddy that IRIS bombed them."

"That's it?"

"Yeah. He was a little upset but said he'd send someone. He said there won't be a HQ and that they won't be around in an hour. I-if you have people over there you shoul-"

"Whatever. We have people there that can defend. Whatever Daddy has planned won't work. I'll warn them." Updike said grumpily.

"So are we going to leave?" Kapi asked.

"No." Updike and Ace said at the same time. "We'll bide our time."

"Good! I'm not leaving either. I think Psychic should come with us." Hex agreed.

"Should we warn Team Lisp about Psychic or Daddy?" Theo asked.

"Yes but I don't expect much will happen. Psychic shouldn't be able to harm them."

"How?" Theo asked, starry-eyed that Updike somehow planned for this.

"S is an eldritch being. He does not think in the usual way. Same deal with Nikusa. And Nikku's an amnesiac. They have a strong resistant to mind-control. Pompom's the only one I would be worried about. Now be quiet for a minute. I need to explain all this to Solazar. But first.."

Updike dialled Tabi, Agoti, Carol, Aldryx, Nikusa and Whitty. Anyone who would have been to the compound prior to the investigation. Not everyone picked up, Aldryx and Agoti didn't respond, and Carol was still unconscious.

He cleared his throat.

"WHY DID NONE OF YOU PEOPLE MENTION THE FAMILY HAS A MINDREADER IN THEIR MIDST?! DO YOU REALIZE HOW BROKEN THAT IS? THE WHOLE OPERATION IS RUINED!" He shouted.

He also glared at Kapi.

Tabi, Kapi and Whitty all stated they had no idea.

Nikusa just giggled on her end, unclear if she knew.

Updike ended the communication, realizing that Psychic himself probably erased their minds as they left, keeping his appearance secret. He sighed.

He opened up a call with TGG next. "Sterling. How close are you?"

"Very."

"Well turn back. I want you to bring two abominations here. I'll show him what it means to read my mind." He said, gritting his teeth.

With Psychic gone and the comlinks re-established, Updike paged Solazar, Tess and Displo. He had a lot to report.

Team Zig has been defeated!

Cauda 10 - Friendly Fire

"Bad enough I got some punk kid harassing me today. Now I gotta deal with an assassin."

Bright lights filled her vision. Her past movements were a blur. She grabbed Carol and Whitty and ran. Following directions she couldn't remember now, she hopped from street from to street, bleeding and in hot pursuit by demons. She heard he car was completely totaled before she was surrounded by IRIS agents and blacked out.

Eyes adjusted she noticed it wasn't just one bright light but many. There were plenty of small ones flickering about. It was the Fae. Adjusting herself they fluttered away.

"So you're finally up." A cheery but commanding voice said.

As she rejoined the world of the conscious the pain returned too. Her hands were numb, back shot and stomach burning. She sighed, looking around.

She lay on a medical bed with a white blanket covering her lower half. Bandages covered her arms, hands and back. Next to her and lying unconscious were Whitty and Carol on separate beds, a fluttering of Fae around them, working overtime to heal. Both looked like hell.

"Annie...They didn't take out your hearing did they?" The cheery voice asked.

Annie looked in front seeing Rosie standing there, pink sniper rifle holstered to her side. "Ugh. I need a drink." Annie groaned. The data centre wasn't as bustling with activity as it was before. All employees had checked out for the night leaving the Carnival in command. At the end of the room she saw the COs standing at the large screen watching over everyone's movements.

Radi sat at one of the desks, clicking through something on the screen in front of him.

The COs were in discussion, Annie listening in. As soon as she heard them mention Mommy's return she narrowed her eyes.

"S-she's back?" Annie asked, adjusting herself further. Though she'd been calm, rage started to bubble underneath.

"Apparently." Tess said, focusing on the screens.

"Then this isn't over." Annie pulled the blanket off and started to get up. "I'm going back in."

"Like hell you are." Rosie said seriously.

"We failed. I'm not gonna let her just roam free." She gritted her teeth.

Displo didn't look back, instead just speaking out loud. "Updike shot her. You're staying here. If we need you back in ill tell her."

"Hmph. Is she still alive?"

"Barely." Displo said.

"Good. I hope she suffers." Annie felt sharp pains throughout her body. It was protesting her sudden movements. It had no intention of returning to the compound. Especially not without more healing.

Annie sat back down, putting the blanket back over her legs.

"You got a drink?" She asked Rosie.

"Will this do?" A feminine voice spoke, this time from beside Annie. She turned aside, seeing someone she didn't recognize.

Tall with a lion's mane of vanilla-coloured hair hiding two animal ears, she wore stylish clothing, black and light brown shirt and shorts. She was dressed for summer excluding the fur jacket that hung open on her shoulders.

She handed Annie a glass filled with an amber liquid. Annie knew what it was even before downing it.

"Thanks, uh.."

"Botan." She never attended the team meetings aside from one. Her role was to watch over the data centre. Annie only vaguely knew of her role.

"Nothin' happening above?" Annie asked as she adjusted herself. Nevermind Mommy, she was back to thinking of the operation.

"Nope. Gonna be heading back up there in a minute though."

"They gonna be okay?" Annie asked, pointing to Annie and Whitty.

"Yep. The Fae got it under control. They took a huge beating, but they'll be back up soon."

"Good." Annie laid back, pulling up her phone.

As time passed information circled the teams. Team Lisp was on the ball, attempting to mend issues and control narratives.

Now Playing...

Artist: Analyst

Song: Epic

Link: https://youtu.be/whsb9moaiDc

Nikku sighed. When she was told she would be piloting the mailroom she didn't think it would be that busy. What do security guards do anyways? Just sit around and look at cameras. That's what she expected. Not the mailroom abuzz with activity, all sorts of people calling in asking for updates. The narrative begun with Nikku pretending to be Mommy and explaining she wasn't in the church.

Daddy too called, angry at the sudden explosion. Nikku, in the mindset almost shouted back to him as Mommy but Nikusa stopped her, forcibly grabbing the mic. Instead she had Nikku pretend to be a demon, remarking that some 'religious terrorists' blew the gate up and threw Mommy into the portal.

At first Daddy chuckled at Mommy's defeat but quickly returned to his angry fervour, cussing Nikku out for being incompetent. He hung up, saying it doesn't matter and they didn't need the gate anymore. He then demanded to be left alone. With Daddy isolated they went back to having Nikku play as Mommy.

Based on what Nikku heard from Pompom she was amazed everyone just wholesale believed she was the matriarch. Mostly everyone anyways. At some point the 'head of security' called in informing the team that IRIS was behind the attack. At the time nobody knew who the security head was. So when Nikku shouted to them in Mommy's voice they sounded skeptical and hung up.

Daddy called again later too, asking Nikku to enter a code: a bunch of 3s and hit a SEND button. She did so, not a thought against it.

It didn't help that her head throbbed, a headache still droning on. Pompom at least hadn't been bothersome. She had been exploring the mailroom, looking over the various monitors and playing with S as she regained magic.

Updike's report came next, reaching the data centre first. Team Zig had been defeated, the Carnival completely exposed and the Family in leagues of someone who's mere presence could jam electronics at will, read minds, control people and fly. Suffice to say nobody on the team stood a chance. They found Ace the most effective, but he was the only one on team with those kinds of powers. Not to mention it was only a fluke Ace was even able to subdue him.

Some robot named Hex showed up as well, apparently on friendly terms with several Carnival members. Whoever he was, Tess saw Displo tense up at his mention. Speaking into Kapi's comlink he asked if he could speak to any IRIS personnel. He had questions. Displo refused to answer, telling Tess it wasn't the time or the place. In the end she just made up a quick response IRIS didn't have any operators with them at the moment. Solazar was curious about Displo's reaction, but alas, there were far pressing issues to deal with.

Hex did give them a little tidbit, however. That Daddy was aware of the data centre's location and remarked to him it would be dealt with soon. Suffice to say, Botan was sent back upstairs where she sat on the roof of the building waiting for whatever Daddy planned. S expanded the camera view to a larger perimeter around the compound and data centre, looking for a potential aggressor.

At this point the only thing Psychic did not know was the exact steps remaining. He knew a team would enter the compound and break into the vault. He didn't know the who and when. He did not know about the memory erasing spell either.

Updike chalked up the miracle to overwhelming Psychic with other details of the operation and his own personal thoughts about Psychic. Updike also genuinely forgot about setting up the antennas. Theo was the expert there.

At the time, Updike's mind was a mess thinking of hundreds of ways to either kill or recruit Psychic that he couldn't read that detail. It was a blessing in disguise.

While chances were low, the plan looked salvageable.

Psychic's next moves were apparently.

1. Retrieve Retro and deliver him to Team Zig.

2. Destroy Team Lisp if they hadn't left yet.

3. Whatever the Laughing Plan is.

Researching both IRIS and TGG's databases nobody found any indication of what that plan could be. As even Boyfriend didn't know the specifics they assumed only Psychic, and the parents were aware of it.

Despite the Psychic's threat against Team Lisp he hadn't called the mailroom again. Nobody knew why, though Solazar figured he was confident the team would evacuate without hassle.

Solazar weighed the options. Team Lisp would not be leaving. He already knew convincing Nikusa and S to flee would be impossible. Combined with the void queen's influence over Nikku and Pompom's unending energy from beating Mommy they weren't leaving. Nikusa and S were eager for a fight.

Nobody knew how Mommy returned so quickly though Nikusa guessed Daddy did so after Nikku informed him. It didn't matter. She was suffering from gunshot wounds thanks to Updike's trigger finger. She'd be out for now. Her resurrection at least solved the problem of her being outside the spell range.

They'd last seen her hobbling to the hangar, in clear pain and speaking to someone.

Beaten by Psychic, Updike was furious. He called in later stating he summoned two 'abominations' on their way to the compound and 'if they tear the place up he doesn't care'.

He didn't specify who noting that if Psychic scanned anyone's minds he would be able to counter them. You heard the order briefly, remarking he sounded like Tabi. You hadn't seen him that angry since Earthquake.

So while Team Lisp waited for the mindreader, the COs needed a plan. Killing Psychic was impossible, and Updike's abominations wouldn't make it in time. Nobody knew how moral Psychic was. This put guilt-tripping him with Pompom out of the question. S and Nikusa weren't interested in any plans. They would fight and kill Psychic, they decided.

A final fallback plan was written, to only be activated if Team Lisp was defeated.

"I will enter the compound and raise my own hell." Solazar said coldly. "It will ruin the operation, force Team Python to evacuate and turn the whole of that area into a warzone but we have no other choice."

Wide-eyed, Tess just nodded. Listening in, Updike agreed.

Radi volunteered to join Solazar, remarking his nuclear fission would help. They would burn the place to the ground then have Pompom cast the spell.

For now, it was waiting.

Up top Botan adjusted her sniper rifle. With free reign on the roof she spent the operation pacing around, checking positions on nearby buildings and occasionally popping in with the team below. She knew vaguely the operation's state but didn't consider it her business.

She was here to assist after the Family made a move against one of her friends. And now hearing that one of the teams were recovering tortured demons only made her angrier. One wrong move and the Family would have had one of her girls, doing who-knows-what to them. Speaking with the other members she learned of the various ills the Family brought against them. So as much as she wanted to put a bullet between Daddy's eyes, she knew she was at the back of a long queue.

Four sniper rifles were set up on each side of the building towels nearby for perching. She'd check each rifle's view, scan nearby buildings and go check another direction.

With a target enroute this was her time to fight. From her conversations with Tabi she had a good idea of what the Family could send. She expected some kind of demon or "abomination" as Updike referred to them.

Getting up from the north position she stretched. Nothing but the occasional night walker or car driving along. With her dark clothing and the fog covering everything she knew she was well hidden. Pushing on her wrists and cracking some fingers she went to the west position. Getting down on the towel she put an eye to the scope and started looking around.

The data centre was only two stories up while the western buildings were double and triple that. She had to sit up and look high to see the tops of the buildings.

Expecting to see nothing atop the building she looked lazily, only stopping when she indeed saw someone sitting. A woman sitting on the roof's edge of the building starring aimlessly. Botan couldn't tell if she was looking down at her or just 'looking'. Details hidden in darkness the things most visible were a mane of white hair and white shoes. Whoever she may be, she didn't belong and wasn't there 30 minutes ago.

Botan watched her for a few minutes, not making a move. Judging by how the watcher didn't do anything, she wasn't sure if she was a villain or not. Her timing was suspicious, and Botan could have sworn that white-haired girl look down at her. But she also knew to be rational about it. Finger on the trigger she kept looking, expecting the watcher to either leave or make herself known.

At the compound, Sakuroma sat in a different pose. Sitting cross-legged, sniper resting on a building's ledge she watched the compound. Team Python had just entered through the front door. Psychic had rose from the cliff and flew towards the mailroom. He spotted Mommy and spoke to her briefly before they both entered the hangar. Sakuroma also witnessed some strange being emerge from the hangar and fly off. They shot at it, but it was moving too fast, scurrying away. Figuring it not violent they just let it be.

Unlike Botan she was conflicted about her role. Nobody informed the Seven Deadly Sins about the crew's penultimate goal. All they knew was Rosie wanted revenge for the Fae and they were there to find Retro. They knew nothing of the heist and found the Carnival's attacks very 'surgical'. It didn't make sense to them.

The rest of the gang stood behind her on various buildings, some watching the compound and some watching surroundings.

Sakuroma was the only one with a comlink but kept it off most of the time, only deciding to turn it on when she first saw Psychic. This was not her operation after all. She knew when to intervene. She also knew vaguely the trouble Psychic had been giving everyone. Nobody saw him coming.

She watched as Psychic emerged from the hangar. Hovering out he flew above the hangar and looked around. He took one glance to the mailroom and then a glance to mansion. Hand to his ear his spoke with someone on his own comlink.

Sakuroma watched carefully, getting him right in the crosshair of her rifle scope. She turned on her comlink, listening in to Solazar, Tess and Displo debate how best to defeat him.

Well, I got the best shot right here. "Just take the shot." Izzurius, one of the Deadly Sins said. Standing above her he looked at the compound, binoculars to his eyes.

"Hm?"

"These bozos can't even take out a flying dude. How are we s'posed to get Retro back if he scared half them off." The corvid-looking magician said.

"I'm not sure that's a good idea."

"Look. That team had what, a monster, a shop teacher, a cat and a cloud. 'Course they couldn't beat him. Psychic stands no chance against us 7. May as well help them out."

"You sure?" Sakuroma said. There was no rule about intervening...and they did technically help the team with that first shot. Deliberations lasted only a few seconds before she decided. "Ehn. Fine. This is boring anyways. Let's wrap this up."

"Exactly! Just as Retro would've intended." Izzurius said happily.

Sakuroma rose the sniper up, putting Psychic's head in the crosshair. She flicked her comlink on. "I'm still here. Taking the shot." They gotta hear this. With a finger pulling the trigger the shot fired, the sound of AWP breaking the silence.

"There she is-Sakuroma. Do not shoot!" Solazar shouted in the comlink.

"SAKUROMA WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!" Tess gasped.

Botan heard both the gunshot and Tess' gasp. Flinching she did the unthinkable.

Solazar heard three things. A gunshot. Tess' scream. Another gunshot.

Now Playing...

Artist: Suicideyear

Song: Hate in My Hart

Link: https://youtu.be/BLTV3lU3SOA

Botan froze, realizing the bullet narrowly miss the perched woman. She froze too, now taking note of Botan. Eyes glowing she leapt off the building. Botan got up fast and ran to the other edge, taking the sniper rifle with her.

"Uhh, guys we got a problem here." Botan said.

The woman landed, fist on the building shaking it. "WHAT THE HELL IS YOUR PROBLEM?!" The woman said.

She stood at an average height with a mane full of hair like Botan. Unlike the hololive sniper, hers was wilder, splaying out in all directions. Strands of it lifted off as her hair glowed a pale bright blue. She was dressed for combat. White and pale purple shoes, ripped jeans, a hoodie tied around her waste, turtleneck and fingerless gloves. She was pissed. That much was clear as indicated by glowing blue eyes, sparks fluttering around them. Electricity emitted throughout her own body. She was supercharged.

"Sorry! It was a misfire." Botan said, bowing. "I didn't mean to."

The lightning woman wiped her chin. "It looks like you meant to shoot me."

"Honest! I didn't! I just heard another gunshot."

"So you're just sitting up here watching the skies. That it?"

"Yes. My name's Botan. I'm defending this building."

"Name's Arizona. Though I suppose you know already. I didn't hear any other gunshot. Bad enough I got some punk kid harassing me today. Now I gotta deal with an assassin." She cracked her fists.

"Everything all right up there?" Rosie asked. "Electronics just glitched out."

"Y-yeah I got it under control." Botan said.

"Calling for help?"

Arizona walked closer. "You know I've been having a pretty shitty day. Maybe you did misfire. I don't care anymore. You shoot at me. You're gonna pay."

Crap, Botan thought. The last thing she needed was a civilian getting involved, especially with an actual monster coming soon. She narrowed on Arizona, raising her sniper.

"Don't make me shoot you."

"You can't." Arizona rose a hand.

The gun glowed blue briefly, something clicking inside. Finger pulling the trigger, intending to shoot at her feet the gun did nothing. It was jammed. Botan dropped her sniper and pulled a knife from her side. Holding it, she raised her fists.

"Fine. You want this? Let's go." Botan said.

Arizona smiled and lunged at Botan. Fists aimed she intended to box Botan into submission, the vtuber ducking out of the way. Botan slammed a fist into Arizona's side, colliding her with shirt. Wary of Arizona's lightning fist she moved out of the way, not wanting to get hit.

She saw an opening to stab but decided against it. She didn't want to kill her. The last thing the Carnival needed was a murder. Just needed to rough her up.

She dropped the knife just as Arizona tried to grab her in a bear hug. Stepping back she caught both her hands in Arizona's, the lightning woman eliciting a smile.

"Bad mov-"

Both acted at the same time. Like a thousand needles all stinging at once throughout both combatants' hands, Arizona felt nothing while Botan felt it all. At the same time, Botan slammed her head into Arizona's, an attempt to break free.

Both recoiled back, Arizona dizzy and Botan feeling contractions in her hands. She never considered herself a fighting game person and knew this was out of her league.

Adjusting herself, Arizona spit on the ground. "Punk."

The gun was looking more tempting by the minute. Maybe she could fire it fast enough? Botan got up and resumed a fighting stance.

"We even now?"

"Not by a longshot." Arizona punched the ground, sending a wave of volts directly to Botan.

Screw this. Botan jumped up, trying to avoid it. It flashed fast enough that she did. Hitting the ground she leapt to the sniper rifle, grabbing and aiming it at Arizona.

"You better make that count." Arizona rose both hands, intending to shoot lightning at the Hololive member.

A gunshot rang out stopping both fighters. Arizona turned back to see a new person. Wearing a pink dress with blonde hair she had a number of fairies floating around her.

"What the hell is going up here?" Rosie asked, puzzled. She held a pink pistol, smoke flowing from it. "Is that the Family's goon?"

"Huh?" Arizona stood upright, leaving the fighting stance. Her electric eyes vanished. Her hair still glowed though not as brightly. "Aren't you Rosie?"

"Yeah I think I recognize you. You've been to the cafe right?"

Arizona shook her head, remembering she was minutes away from beating up Botan. "Yeah. Well she shot me!"

"It was an accident! I swear!" Botan said. She still held the sniper, finger off the trigger this time.

"Well this is official Donna business...."

"Arizona."

"Right. If you don't mind could you please leave? There's a lot of weird stuff going on tonight. We don't want anyone in the crossfire."

"You're telling me." Arizona scoffed. "Why the hell is she shooting people anyways?"

"...look-here." Rosie checked her pockets, digging for something in her dress. Pulling out a paper she handed it to Arizona. "Here. You can get whatever you want from any of my bakeries. And hell, I like your powers. You want in with the Donnas lemme know."

"Yeah well that doesn't absolve the fact she tried to kill me."

"Oh shut up. She didn't even hit you. Fine. How about another coupon?" Rosie gave her another one.

"Heh. Fine. This works. Later bozos." Arizona said, snickering and jumping off the data centre. They didn't watch to see where she went.

"Alright I'm ready!" Radi shouted as he burst through the door. Hands raised they glowed a light green. He quickly put them down, realizing the fight already ended.

"I missed it didn't I?"

After the situation Displo and Tess had a laugh. Updike was exceedingly curious about a lightning user but didn't inquire further. Finding the whole thing a misunderstanding they all returned to their posts.

During the whole time Solazar said nothing, instead just starring up at the cameras. He didn't care about the "impending monster". He didn't care about Psychic, and he certainly didn't care about the Seven Deadly Sins going off on his own.

Next in was Team Python.

You, Tabi and his kids. It didn't matter how many times Agoti told him he was ready. Solazar couldn't shake the worry.

The next chapter will be called Our Main Act.

Cauda 11 - Our Main Act

"I can't believe we're actually doing it. I've dreamed of this day."

Now Playing...

Artist: Vesna

Song: Pautina

Link: https://youtu.be/gHWqHL87I84

The final team was enroute to the compound now.

Team Python.

Tabi, the Andromeda brothers and you. Aldryx drove, nominating himself the most capable. He drove with no hurry or any odd manoeuvres. Glancing at the rearview mirror you could see he looked focused and just a tad angry.

He drove with the window down, cool summer air flowing through the vehicle. He expected Tabi to make some remark about being seen but didn't. Tabi didn't care who saw him.

Agoti had moved on from worrying about the prison. But Aldryx, you could tell he didn't forgive that easily. He was still pissed about it, even after everything was said and done, Tabi confirming that much to you. During one practice Aldryx snapped at his brother, that he shouldn't just 'get over' his incarceration. Aldryx wanted revenge.

Agoti sat in the passenger seat, headphones on, jamming out. It was hard to tell if he took it seriously. He seemed the most laid back of anyone in the car. During the simulations he commonly goofed of. It would have worried you if he hadn't already proved himself in Blindside, Earthquake and Flashbang.

You and Tabi sat in the back, your mind awash with the operation and all you heard so far.

Nikku's team was ultimately successful.

Annie's team and a surprise guest (Pompom) had taken quite a beating but were now in IRIS' hands back at the data centre. According to S Annie's car had been totalled by demons but compared to what could have happened it was a good outcome.

Mommy was taken out of the picture too...and summarily brought back. It pissed off Annie, who demanded she be taken back to the compound for a rematch.

Updike's team botched their role, though in their defense nobody could have seen Psychic coming. Even Tabi and Carol weren't aware of Psychic, despite visiting the compound before. For now Team Zig, plus Blackjack and some robot called Hex were waiting for Psychic to retrieve Retro. You had no idea who Hex was, but a few members on the team stated he was okay to be trusted. Even Tabi remarked that he'd seen that bot before. Based on what you understood he was an IRIS associate.

Hex apparently tried to convince Psychic to go with the team though his answer was unclear. Regardless, if Psychic didn't, Updike prepared his own fallback. TGG were enroute with some 'anti-telepathic weaponry' and would try to take out Psychic with it should he refuse.

The only bonus was that they set up the repeaters, making the spell still possible.

Psychic also mentioned something about a Laughing Plan. Tess and Solazar were already looking up any mention of it, hitting nothing but dead ends. All you knew was tonight the night it debuted, and Psychic warned Hex and friends to get as far from the compound as possible. S too, was in the process of hacking everything to see if he could find a mention of it.

Despite the warning you and the others had no intention of stopping. You continue to stare out the window, looking at passing streetlights.

Tabi sat next to you, fiddling with his weaponry. He came armed and prepared. Never mind a heist he was dressed for war. Even though he wore his usual blue hoodie and jeans he wore an additional vest over, brown and bulletproof it hung open. He also added blue armbands around his upper arm like a soldier would. Alongside his hunting knife he brought a flamethrower, M1895 revolver and RPK-47, the assault rifle he had purchased from that strange arms dealer.

Like Aldryx, Tabi was ablaze with fury. He was focused, energetic and ready for this, barely even sleeping last night.

For him, this was a long time coming.

Even before the pick-up he insisted you even take a photo, your partner demanding to know how he looked on the day he won. He'd taken the vest off because of the summer heat but damn he still looked cool.

In his hoodie pockets he carried incendiary grenades. He intended to bring another rifle too, but Solazar stopped him, remarking that he had no need for such weaponry, that his 'hands would be better used carrying the money'. Though Tabi denied it everyone knew he still meant to kill any family members he found. Most of the simulations ended with Tabi killing someone.

Currently he remained focused on the RPK, using tissues to wipe it down. Like Tabi, you came armed as well. Former police-issued combat shotgun, two handguns, a flashbang, plenty of ammo and a baton, just in case. Most of the weapons were strapped to your armor. The name "Displo's" still read on the back. You knew you'd have your revenge, Psychic or not.

Needless to say everyone also brought plenty of bags. Believing you and Tabi had the weapon situation covered the Andromeda brothers saw fit to free up their hands.

You stopped looking outside and load the final shell into the shotgun, checking if it was in proper condition.

"Everyone's ready right?" Tabi asked.

"Damn straight." Aldryx said first.

"I do hope you all ready. This could get ugly. The other three teams have already faced several challenges." Solazar said through the link.

"Yeah, yeah. We got this. Got two walking tanks with us anyways." Agoti said, turning his volume down.

"I'm ready." You added.

Aldryx pulled a U-turn and parked beside a nearby building. Walking the rest of the way, S remarked as he saw you appear on a nearby camera. You weren't sure but somewhere above were the Seven Deadly Sins. With the chaos around the former church, S controlling the cameras and the search for Annie there wouldn't be anyone stopping you and the others from waltzing in. Just ahead you could see the hangar past a patch of trees. No runway stood by and aside from some very antsy looking guards nothing actually threatening.

Just ahead was the manor. It was designed to have an old, almost gothic look. With spiral towers atop the east and west wing, gargoyles perched atop some of the roofs, Victorian-stylized windows and trimming and a massive overhang it allowed for a huge porch. A far cry from the sleek and minimal designs most houses were made with today. It contrasted with the design on the floor plan, the Family having added to it since inception. With S watching and Nikku now commanding the patrols you and the others made your way to the front gate.

You take one look at the skies, checking if Psychic was lurking around. For the moment the coast was clear, the last patrol heading towards the hangar. As you stepped to the front gate you notice Tabi shudder.

"You alright?"

"I am."

"You ready?"

"Couldn't be more ready, babe." Tabi said slyly, resuming his personage. You chuckle, loving how brazen he become.

"I can't believe we're actually doing it. I've dreamed of this day." He said.

"Hey be careful guys." Nikku spoke up, using Mommy's voice. Agoti nearly jumped upon hearing it. "Ahem. Sorry." Nikku changed her voice to one of the demon guards. She sighed, having trouble keeping up with everyone. "I'm not seeing any of the family members around. Just Mommy and she went to the hangar. Psychic is unaccounted for as well."

"All quiet on this front." S added.

"Do you see vat girl and her boyfriend?" Tabi asked.

"Nope. No idea where they are. I am still tracking, just as you-"

"Never mind that!" Tabi said, shutting off his comlink. You looked to Tabi who looked away embarrassed. "Sorry." He said sheepishly. "I just wanted to know."

Agoti slapped his shoulder. "You gotta get over her man. Geez."

"I will. I'm sorry."

"So it's out of the bag? Yeah I haven't seen them." S said slickly. Tabi had shut his link off and didn't hear S' mocking words.

"Er..there's no surveillance in the house btw." He added.

The house was divided into three sections. An east, west and centre wing. The way it stretched out on either side made it appear like a bird showing its wingspan.

Just walking right up to the front you stop, entering the sheltered area, the roof above you.

"Alright." Tabi said. "(Y/N) and I will go straight in. You two go up. We meetup later. Anyone got a problem?"

"Nope."

"Good."

It was determined early on that having all four go through the front entrance would risk exposure. Instead, in the interest of the Andromedas' agility plus the possibility of having to make a break a split up was proposed.

"Alright. Let's do this." Agoti said excitedly. You weren't even sure if he cared about the heist. Since the simulations began he acted like he wanted to get caught as if it were a game. Tabi was similar, thought he wanted bloodshed not money.

It would certainly explain why you and he would go through the front door. Thinking on it you remember Tabi suggesting it first, probably envisioning some grand finale with Daddy right in the lobby.

Satisfied, Agoti nodded and made off with his brother, the two grabbing a hold of the pillar and hoisting themselves up to the porch roof. You hear them scampering on it, mentioning something about the antenna, then disappearing into a window.

Tabi looked to you, hesitating. You take the lead pushing the front doors open. Not locked, they open easily, revealing a grand entrance.

Now Playing...

Artist: The House of Hidden Light

Song: Invitation to the Lighthouse

Link: https://youtu.be/Yx4_cAD8Pv4M

Ruby rugs, fancy curtains and not a spec of dust anywhere. Two grand staircases that flanked either side of the grand lobby, covered in that same rug with gold trimming on the sides. Large chandeliers hung from the ceiling providing a great light across everything.

Both staircases wound to the second floor, massive hallways up top going left and right leading to other wings. In between the staircases another hallway, venturing deeper into the manor.

Perfect mahogany wood made walls, engravings and curtains covering some. Plenty of paintings, pictures, artwork and more, displaying a fanciful collection.

You had to hand it to him. In true supervillain fashion his base was impeccably decorated. It exuded a certain 'finality' and you felt it. This was the endgame.

"Wow." You mutter.

"I know. Is very big." Tabi took a deep breath, keeping his nerves under control.

You notice him staring into space.

"Wonder how they keep it clean." You ask, bewildered.

"...They have an army for that."

You snort. "Had. Had an army."

Tabi chuckled, getting back into focus. He shook his head. "Sorry. This place is. Just. Familiar."

"Well this is the last time you'll see it."

At the top of the stairs you notice a patrol, flashlights disappearing into one of the wings. You had just missed them.

"Right. Where do we go?" You ask. Having done the simulations before Tabi memorized the path. With your helmet displaying a minimap in the visor you didn't bother memorizing.

"Let's avoid the stairs, go straight, find another way up." Tabi said. "Follow me." He led, watching closely for guards.

In the gap left by flanks of stairs, a hallway stood. Determining it the best course you and Tabi make down it, slowly moving and watching for any patrols. A system developed. You would watch for guards, using your helmet as assistance while Tabi kept an eye for any good places to hide and lead.

Tabi kept a hand on his waist at all times where one of his pistols was stashed. A few times you notice his hand twitch, no doubt getting eager to start the fighting.

The hallway lead into a corridor, plenty of doors surrounding either side you. While some parts of the floor plan didn't list what each room meant you could at least see all the routes to the second floor.

You two moved in silence, keeping upmost quiet, only stopping when S shouted on the comlink. "Whoa, what the hell is that?!"

It made Tabi flinch, who muted his comlink again. He shook his head in annoyance.

You kept yours on, curious to the deal.

"Yo, Starline. Some weird looking thing just burst out the, uh storage room. It's gone."

The storage room was connected to the hangar, you recall incorrectly.

"Looked like huge...stick-thing...fly maybe? Idk. It didn't have any wings. Damn it's moving fast."

"Report. Where is it headed?" Solazar asked.

"No idea. Watching, jumping the fence, huh. He's running off the compound. Just outright left. I can see him climbing a build-"

You heard gunfire from the link as another person joined the conversation. "Kill it!" Sakuroma shouted. "Reporting that whatever that thing was just fleed. We didn't hit it. It's fast. Jumping from building. Should we purs-"

"No." Updike butted in. "I'll send a TGG patrol to take it. Just leave it for now."

"Copy that."

Tabi stopped, curious to what was going on. He noticed you slow down, focused on the conversation. You shake your head, "Nothing. Some monster left the compound."

Tabi shrugged, continuing on, you close by. Thanks to modifications by Theo and S nearby doors would light up if you were on the right path.

And sure enough it did, a door on your left turning green in the visor. "This is it." You say, stopping. Based on the intel, this was the dining room. Beyond it would be a hallway containing a room with a ladder to the 2nd floor.

"We still don't know the locations of some of the Family members, namely Daddy." Tess said through the comlink.

"Understood."

"Just be careful please. Keep a low profile. If occupied I got three other routes for you."

"I got this." Tabi said, nudging you aside.

He knelt down and peered through the crack, looking for anyone. "Hm. Strange."

"What is it?" You ask, watching both sides of the hall.

"There is no one in there."

"Let's go then."

Tabi nodded, slowly opening the door and entering, looking around. "Hm. They've remodelled." He mumbled. You enter along with him, closing the door behind you.

While it was listed as a dining room there was no table in sight, indents on the carpet indicated it had been here recently. A row of windows lined both sides of the room, both looking out to different sides of the compound. While some had curtains drawn, others didn't. Either way, you and Tabi took precaution, hiding from any passers-by under the windows.

Psychic still lurked somewhere but based off what you heard, if he had a problem he would have showed up. You guess he was either busy elsewhere or stalking the grounds.

In-between several windows a series of paintings hung. All professionally done they depicted the Family, though mostly of Mommy and Daddy. There were none of the other members.

Between the sturdy chandelier on the ceiling and thick curtains there were plenty of places to hide. After a one-sided game of hide and seek, you and Tabi made it out of the dining room. He continued to lead, even remarking he didn't need your helmet. Any initial anxiety he had was gone, replaced with determination. He was still itching for a fight, however.

At one point you caught him ready to open fire on a guard. You stopped him, preferring to keep things stealthy. After another hallway and a close call you and Tabi found yourselves in a study, ladder in the corner of the room to next floor.

A fireplace stood in the centre wall, adding some much-needed warmth to it. A large leather chair and footrest sat in front of it, though not for long before Tabi pushed both in front of the door blocking it.

There wasn't much time to appreciate the study as Tabi started practically dragging you along to the ladder. He wasn't interested in admiring the place or had some bad memories here. Either way, he worked faster. Just before you could ask why, a knock at the door silenced you.

"Yo dad! You in here? We got a big problem!" A bratty voice called. Tabi's eyes went wide, and he pulled you, motioning to go up the ladder fast. You complied, trying to balance speed and stealth.

The door opened slightly, stopped by the chair. "What the hell? Dad, you in here?" The voice asked again, confused. Reaching the top, Tabi practically pulled you in, pushing you away from the entrance. He shushed you and pointed a finger to the previous floor, then moved to his neck, drawing his thumb across it. understood. A neck-slitting motion. A little extreme but you said nothing.

You draw your baton, ready in case Tabi needed help. He stood on the other side of the opening, ready to grab from behind.

"Stupid door, OPEN!" The voice shouted, forcing open the door, knocking the chair asunder.

"Why was it.." You hear someone mutter from below.

"The son." Tabi whispered.

Neither you nor Tabi moved, waiting for the son to make his next motion. He circled the room, the fireplace the only other sound.

Seeing nothing unusual the son shrugged and walked away. You hear the door close behind him. While the thought occurs that he tried to fake you out it's stopped as you hear him calling for his sister outside, voice growing distant as he walks away.

"Damn." Tabi muttered, putting away his knife disappointingly. Yep, he still had his bloodlust. You motion to go, uninterested in this small library you and Tabi had entered.

Based on the map there was a hallway perpendicular to this room and to the right an alcove plus door to a second dining room, connecting the two wings.

Peering out Tabi saw this hallway darker than the others, one of the chandeliers having gone out. Grabbing your hand, Tabi lead you and rounded the corner. Like the map displayed, a large alcove and two large oak doors covered in engravings and symbols, leading to an additional dining room.

With how much of a 'black sheep' Girlfriend was in the family you wondered if she ate with them or had to use the other dining room. With the door slightly ajar, you got down and peered inside, Tabi standing behind watching both sides of the hall.

A long room, light red carpet, a long table and none other than the back of Daddy Dearest, laughing maniacally with his guests.

You shudder, stopping yourself from grabbing your gun. You hadn't seen him since that day and boy did seeing him again burn a hole in your stomach. Guess you hadn't gotten over it after all. You couldn't see who Daddy's guests, but they looked to be having a grand time.

"Found Daddy." You say into your comlink. Tabi reacted instantly, twitching. You looked, expecting something more but his attention was focused on the hallway. "Two patrols coming from either side. Need those alternate routes." He said.

From the comlink you heard a shuffling of papers. "Uh. Okay." Tess started but Solazar but in, sounding as refined as before. "There are three. The first is if you can do go down the hallway. Make a-"

"No can do. Patrol there too."

"Yo, is that a ghost?!" One of the demons shouted. Though concealed by the broken chandelier, they could still clearly see Tabi's flames glowing.

"Shit." Tabi said as he ran into the alcove with you. "Need another path."

"Archway along the ceiling and there's a window by you. One could scale it, the other crawl along." Solazar said quickly. You had to hand it to him, in a tense situation he never lost his cool.

Tabi nodded as a he jumped upon the door's frame and heave himself up. Scaling it, he jumped to the chandelier. You understand and unlatch the window, easily opening it. You hurry and get out, lowering yourself to the ledge beneath it, holding tightly to one of the gargoyle statues, crouching.

"Hey, (Y/N)! I see ya!" S said through the comlink.

Glancing up you see a flashlight emit out of the window, the guards looking outside.

"I tell ya, this house is haunted."

"Nah, I think you should get your eyes checked." The demons said. You stay unmoving as you hear the window click close and lock.

Now Playing...

Artist: Bull of Heaven

Song: The Lamp Ever Burning

Link: https://youtu.be/8OSR2SnRAM0

Below was a steep fall, though not deadly. Bushes lined the wall that in the event a fall would catch. Looking further out into the compound you see some patrols, but none notice you yet.

"S. Can you keep the patrols off me? I gotta traverse this."

"Sure! But imma watch of this. Let's see how you do platforming." S said, amused. You figure a camera was inside the gargoyle.

The ledge didn't continue but the windows did. It would be an upper body exercise but possible, nonetheless. You make the jump to the first window, holding on with both hands. Large ledges hung off each window, a gap separating each. It wouldn't take much to move between them and with a foot on the wall you found yourself able to leap from one window to another.

You could have peered inside but decide against it, preferring to keep your nose out of Daddy's business. And as tempting as a surprise attack was, now was the not the time for violence.

"You doin' okay?" Tabi asked through the comlink.

"Yeah, so far." You said. You took it slow, careful not to burn energy. Though the rain had long stopped it remained damp and cold outside. Your armor did a good job at keeping you warm, allowing yourself to stay heated as you scaled. The ledges were damp but thanks to erosion you were able to find indents in the rocks that helped grip.

"I will meet you on the other side, let you in." Tabi said.

You try not to look at the ground. Though you knew you could survive the fall you didn't want to get more anxious. Not to mention Psychic was still-you shake your head. Stay focused.

Just as you predicted, the chandeliers remained sturdy. It was even large enough for Tabi to sit down on the flat top of it. Just in front of him he could see into the dining room.

Plenty of times sleeping in the tree made him good at scaling. Feeling as if his time spent in the park finally paid off he jumped off the door frame to the chandelier just as the guards stormed the alcove.

Reaching into the triangular window he grabbed ahold of the supporting beam and began his trek. Sitting atop the chandelier Tabi could see into the dining room.

The room contained a wooden archway ceiling that stretched across it, a long wooden beam holding the shape across. Per the way the room was built, another window existed on the opposing side. Grabbing the top ledge, Tabi pulled himself upwards.

Hugging it as a slug would, he crawled along, grip tight on it. He moved slowly, creeping along. He made sure everything stayed tight on him, no way anything would fall. He even checked the state of the wood, ready to grab onto another arch if it faltered.

He couldn't help but chuckle as he made his way. He knew if this were the old Tabi he would have gone in guns blazing, relishing the opportunity to catch Daddy by surprise.

He looked below, curious as to who the dinner guests were. Below he saw a long table, red tablecloth with a few plates and dishes atop it. Sitting at the head of the table was Daddy Dearest, holding a glass of red wine. Sitting across and next to him were people Tabi did not recognize. Two humans, and judging by their attire and manners, politicians. Hmph. All corrupt, Tabi thought.

Still holding on to the pole he used his free hand to reach to back, touching his RPK. Could get a good shot in right here...no. Not safe enough. Recoil could make me lose balance. One of the 'politicians' looked up.

Flinching, Tabi looked up too. He froze, realizing his eyes could have given away his position. He closed them, listening in to the conversation. A few seconds later he looked back down cautiously, seeing the dinner chat still going. He'd have to do this blind. Closing his eyes he continued scooting along, listening to their conversation. If they stopped, he knew to stop. He even held his breath, eliminating any sound he made. He froze again upon hearing the doors open.

"Ah! Here is one of them now!" Daddy bellowed. It sent chills down Tabi's spine. The grandiose but still husky and rough sounding voice of Daddy struck fear. Tabi looked down, instead perplexed by what he saw.

A few demons rolled in a stretcher, an anthro strapped to it. The anthro didn't move and Tabi couldn't tell if he was even still breathing. The anthro appeared lizard like, with a long snout. He had long silver hair that covered half his face and settled around his neck, fluffier than anything. From his bright blue skin, green-tipped horns and blue, white and black tail hanging off the stretcher, Tabi had an idea who it was.

"This guy right here, complete criminal. Wanted for extortion, gang violence, fraud, murder, you name it!" Daddy shouted. "We capture him, syphon his energy for the Laughing Plan and the city is safer. We've had him for about two months. And you guys don't need to do a thing!"

"Remarkable." One of the politicians said. "Is he still alive?"

"Of course! We can't drain them completely. We let him heal up a bit and go again. This way they don't get strong enough to fight back. It's a perfect system! We have three of these demons right now."

For a brief moment Tabi felt bad, realizing if this was the alternative then he got off easy. He didn't recognize the prisoner specifically but based on features he guessed it to be Retro, Ace's boyfriend.

He continued along, knowing to report what he saw. The demons rolled Retro out the other door, Retro still not moving. Another demon came in after, cart full of trays of food. Unintentionally, it made Tabi's stomach growl a bit. Should've eaten something earlier, he thought as he continued.

Reaching the end of the archway he climbed out the triangular window and placed himself onto the chandelier. This one was better lit but still provided cover.

After taking a few breathers you made it to the end of the hall, climbing from ledge to ledge. Your hands were freezing now, enough that it slowed you down. A light drizzle started again, stinging your hands as you gripped the stone. S demanded you keep going, stating that he'd do worse to you if you fell. It helped.

With one final heave you latch onto the ledge opposite the one you started from. Grabbing onto a gargoyle you take a few breaths, waiting on Tabi.

"We've lost contact with the Seven Deadly Sins. Cannot reach Sakuroma." Solazar said into the comlink.

"W-what the hell?" You said, shivering, not from the realization but from the damp air.

"I-I don't know. We just can't reach them." Tess said, a little worried.

"Maybe it was that ugly guy." S chimed in. "Or the ooooo mInDrEaDeR!"

"Everyone proceed as usual. I believe this may be a hiccup."

"I'm here. Taking the shot." Sakuroma said, her comlink coming back on.

"Sakuroma. Do not shoot!" Solazar shouted in the comlink. You heard gunfire, Tess gasp and Solazar shouting about bad ideas. You tune it out, focusing back on the mission. They could handle themselves.

Tabi likewise came to the same conclusion, also hearing S saying something about not getting involved. He waited until the demons carted Retro off. Now that the coast was clear he lowered himself off the chandelier onto the ground.

"You at the window?" He asked into the comlink.

"Yeah, hurry up. Getting soaked out here."

"On it." Doing another quick check, Tabi went to the window and unlocked it, opening and helping you inside. You sit down against the wall, getting your breath back and warming up.

"All good?" Tabi asked.

"Just need a sec."

While waiting Tabi opened his comlink, reporting that he found Retro.

"Wonderful! I'll get S to tag his location." Solazar said.

"I thought Psychic was going to get him." Pompom interjected.

"What was that gunfire?" Tabi asked.

"Our demonic friends tried sniping Psychic again. Suffice to say they fled and are being pursued by him." Updike said, a little happiness in his voice.

"Was that..planned?" You asked.

"Haha, no, but they'll be able to keep him at bay. There's 6 of them after all. Either way we are wiping our hands clean of SDS for now. We have no relation to them." Updike snickered.

"Indeed, let's proceed on the mission. With Psychic out of the way the spell and all we planned for is possible now." Solazar added.

"I'm keeping watch on them, but they won't be able to help us." Tess concluded. "At least he's gone now."

"NO!" You heard Ace shout. "Who's gonna get Retro? I'm going in! Don't try to stop-"

You heard violence on the comlink, presumably coming from the Updike's team.

"Whoa! Why the hell did you do that for?" Kapi shouted on the comlink.

"Is...he dead?" Hex asked.

You heard Updike sigh. "I apologize. I could not stand his disparity any longer. He's just unconscious." Clearing his throat he continued. "Teams Python or Lisp. Can either of you retrieve Retro?"

"Ehn sure. I could go for some fresh air." Nikusa responded.

"Good then. Just...what is it?...Of course you did." Updike sighed. "And S, can you go retrieve Kapi's phone?"

"Oh oh! I can do it!"

"Well stay careful of those hellh-"

Once again you tune the discussion out. Nevermind the complete chaos of the rest of the team you and Tabi had a mission to complete.

You get up, figuring it better to stay on the move than be so close to Daddy. "There's politicians in there." Tabi said, pointing to the door.

"Really? Let me see."

"Heh. Go for it. You're more a political perp than me."

Peering through the crack of the door you see the three people. Tabi was correct, you identifying them instantly.

The mayor of Newgrounds City sat on the left. You weren't surprised there. The city was corrupt as well. Looking at the second person your heart sank, and you let out a sigh. One of exasperation, as in 'you should have expected it'.

Sitting at Daddy's right side was none other than the police chief. You shake your head, not letting that fact get under your skin. He was corrupt. You already knew that.

You get up and start walking.

"What's wrong?" Tabi asked.

"Nothing. Just things I shoulda expected. Let's go."

"Heh-heh, saw some familiar faces?. Doesn't matter, I'm right behind ya."

With Tabi by your side you proceed down the hallway, making your way.

Cauda 12 - Ripples Across the Compound

"Mhm. They've had it coming."

Just because Team Python was in play didn't mean everyone else could just sit around. You and Tabi were rapidly approaching the vault. Despite what you and Tabi could hear, the Carnival was wrought with problems.

The Seven Deadly Sins were off fighting Psychic somewhere, unclear if the mind reader even knew they were part of the crew.

Team Zig was in deep discussion if, since Psychic was gone they should they go back and resume the original plan. Updike was in favour of it, wanting another go. Huggy too apparently, judging from his excited sounds. Theo, Kapi and Blackjack were tuckered out, wanting nothing to do with the compound. Theo in particular wasn't taking his drones being smashed that well either.

Solazar remained at attention, watching the monitors, deeply focused on the cameras and maps. He even had a POV shot of your helmet, watching you and Tabi proceed down. Displo was outside on a call with IRIS. With word getting out regarding Hex there were now talks of apprehending him. Displo took the call outside, not wanting to complicate matters further.

Team Cobol was just waiting around, getting antsy. The Donnas had left the data centre and were in the garages doing final checks on their cars. Radi, annoyed he missed a fight stayed up top with Botan, awaiting Daddy's attack. Rosie stayed in the data centre, watching over Annie, Whitty and Carol. With the Fae working overtime she stood by, helping where she could.

With everyone else busy it left Tess to monitor Team Lisp.

S was out retrieving Kapi's phone, getting annoyed at how wet he was getting looking for it. Tess was trying vainly to help him, relaying between him and Kapi as they searched. Kapi left it on silent, making tracking it harder. At least it was quiet, S found Psychic had dealt with all the hell hounds, the dogs rounded up and put back in the kennel, a pile of cobblestones where the hole was blown.

Nikusa was out as well, perched atop the hangar, waiting for demons to leave the manor so she could jump them and retrieve Retro.

Surprisingly nobody had come barging in to the mailroom, though Tess expected it. Psychic was off fighting a war, Mommy seriously injured, Daddy entertaining guests and nobody else in the compound strong enough to beat Team Lisp, Tess just assumed the MO was to leave the mailroom alone.

Either way, with Nikku pretending to be either Mommy or a demon they had the patrols obeying their commands. Aside from offsite calls coming it was all quiet. Tess guided Nikku what to say during those. She was thankful, her head was still aching. she had nearly fainted earlier as memories started to re-appear. It gave her time to relax.

Atop the hangar Nikusa watched as some demons wheeled out retro on a stretcher from the manor. Heading towards the hangar, it took little effort for her to ambush and take them out. The slain demons were sloppily thrown into a bush nearby along with the stretcher that Retro was previously on.

Nikusa held him over her shoulder. She wasn't sure what she expected but didn't expect him to look like that.

Neon blue fur, black and green horns, additional horns emitting from under his snout and sides of head, a large mane of silver hair, long tail with 3 spikes on the end and tail a myriad of neon blue, black and white. He wore a navy blue hoodie with dark blue trim, white undershirt and jeans, not needing any footwear. All designer brands, though Nikusa didn't care.

To describe his state one could just write damaged. Rips in the hoodie, dirt and dried blood stains all over, chips in the horns, matted hair in the mane.

To Nikusa he looked far more like a dragon anthro than a demon, though she knew very well looks could be deceiving.

She waited for the demon patrols to move. Much as she'd like to take everyone out, Sol demanded she not. So she sat, perched like a gargoyle, waiting annoyed, atop the hangar. She let the others know they had Retro. As Ace stirred, he found himself relieved, apologizing for his outbursts. For the first time since they met him sounded kind of happy.

On the other hand Pompom wasn't annoyed or relieved. She was just bored. She wanted to jump demons with Nikusa or help S look but wasn't allowed. With Nikku busy watching the monitors, suffering from migraines and covering for everyone she couldn't play.

Pompom was left waiting around for something to happen. Just briefly they were all on high alert, waiting for Psychic to confront them. But after the Sins decided to shoot him he flew off on his own way.

There wasn't much else to do. Pompom couldn't waste her magic and she wasn't allowed to touch the computers. Nikku barely knew what they did and didn't want anyone other than S touching them.

So, with nothing to do but wait Pompom started exploring. Next to the mailroom was attached a building labeled 'storage'. The same building where Smiler first burst out of. The two buildings were connected via a single blue door past the equipment racks, opposite side to the camera screens.

She didn't ask Nikku for permission, instead stating she was going into it. Nikku just agreed, too focused on police now aware of a war between the Seven Deadly Sins and Psychic.

Pompom was greeted by a long, dimly lit hallway. Fixtures hung above each door, though none directly lighting. This didn't bother Pompom. A capable magic user, she had no trouble lighting herself up to see better. Holding a hand up a flame emitted from it, allowing her to see.

Each door had a number on it as well as a note taped which displayed it's contents: Music equipment, general storage, holding area, electrical equipment and archives.

The electrical equipment door drew her attention. She recalled hearing Updike mention that Psychic's powers would not work against S. Yes. There surely should be something in here to boost S' power. Or maybe even hide her thoughts from Psychic.

She pushed open the door entering a large but crowded room. While the hallway was dark, the room was pitch black...almost. From her side, obscured by a wall of boxes saw a green glow in the corner. Eyes adjusting, she noticed something else. A faint bubbling coming from the glow.

With her illumination she saw several boxes in front of her. They packed this room to the brim. The boxes, spilling open with cords and discarded accessories piled almost to the ceiling. While climbing them was tempting she elected to follow the makeshift path they were placed in. She muted her comlink, wishing to better hear the bubbling sound. Though the boxes were arranged in a maze she tried to follow the sound.

Finding a crack between some boxes she saw the source of the glow. Some kind of holding tank with someone floating in it. Curiosity getting the better of her she casted a spell and floated into the air, hovering towards it. She knocked a few boxes asunder, causing a bunch to tumble over loudly. Ignoring it she saw a space in front of the tank and landed, the emerald glow from the liquid providing ambient light.

"Wow." She said quietly.

Indeed, it was a holding tank, filled with a bright green liquid. Hovering inside, suspended by wires going into her back, a demon.

She was dressed like a nun though without the veil. Her garments were a maroon colour. She looked to be the same species as that nun, though with shades Neapolitan skin and crosses upon her hair.

Large pipes and tubes emerged from the tank's base going into the ground, as did a similar amount come from the top pumping the liquid.

A control panel stood next to the tank, covered in glyphs and symbols Pomona did not recognize. What she did recognize was the person in the tank, hovering unconsciously.

She'd only seen her for a second during Earthquake and completely forgot her name. She was one of those Lightwatchers...or Lighthouses, or...she couldn't remember. What perplexed her though was why was this nun here now? Pompom weighed her options. Well we busted out her husband before. And he was actually a good guy. Maybe she was too? Maybe she was being held prisoner here? Then she's gotta be broken out! She thought about calling Updike or Solazar but decided against it. The nun must have been good. And if anything happened S and Nikusa were right there.

She looked at the panel. Nothing but a strange language she didn't understand. Remembering what Nikku said earlier she decided it best if she didn't touch it. Instead she stepped back, rose her hand and started a spell. At first she thought hurling a rock thought it. But no. She wanted to do it in style and again make Zardy proud.

Channeling the roots she felt them underground. Eyes closed and using them for sight she waited till the ground beneath her trembled. Feeling the grip she shot them directly up, shooting through the concrete floor. With thorns on them they shot through the metal piping and enclosed around the glass tank, easily shattering it as the liquid poured out. The nun too, fell forward, Pompom grabbing her before she could hit the ground. Now breathing air again the nun took a deep breath, though still unconscious.

The panel beside the tank started to beep loudly, clearly emitting some kind of warning.

"Pompom what are you doing? Where are you?" S asked as he ported to her phone.

"Just in the storage room! Hold on I'm coming back!" With another spell cast, Pomona teleported, envisioning the mailroom as her destination. In a burst of light she warped, eyes now adjusting to the brights of the mailroom.

Nikusa and S had returned, Retro's unconscious body laying atop one of the desks.

"Pompom where did you-who is that?" S said, walking up to her.

"Huh. What's she doing here?" Nikusa asked plainly as Pompom put the nun down. "Is she even alive?"

Hearing their responses Nikku stepped away from the desk, looking to see what got them confused.

"I dunno. I found her. She's good right?"

Nikku was the most surprised. "What the? I thought she didn't work with the Family...and was in jail."

Hearing the confused banter, Updike spoke up. "Huggy wait! Ahem. Who found what? Explain."

Nikku replied first. "Uhhh, Pompom found that demon that attacked your place, back when, um Earthquake."

"W-what? Sarvente? The Lightbringer?"

"Yeah! That was her name!" Pompom added cheerily.

"By what possible reason..." Updike muttered. "Tess. Are you hearing this?"

"I am! But what does it mean?" Tess looked to Solazar expectantly, though he remained focused on Team Python. Displo was still outside the data centre on call.

"I'm sorry Tess. Whatever Updike is complaining out please help him." He said quietly. Though Solazar could pinpoint you and Tabi on the map clearly, his two kids he could not. Agoti and Aldryx had turned their comlinks off sometime ago and, judging from their trackers had not moved much either. Deciding he waited enough he got ready to call them. Tapping his foot on the ground he linked with Agoti and Aldryx.

"Agoti! Aldryx!" He said. "Are you two alright? Status report."

Solazar heard a click, then Agoti's voice. "Yeah pops, don't worry. We're fine. We'll go back on the move soon enough-" Agoti turned the link off before he finished speaking.

Solazar sighed. What could they be doing?

"So that's about the gist of it." Agoti said.

He and Aldryx sat in a bedroom, glass shards lining the carpeted floor they sat on. From the fluffy purple carpet to the puffy bed to the dresser lined with plushies and makeup stand it looked to be a young girl's room.

Indeed it was, the owner of the room and her boyfriend seated in front of them. A red-haired girl and a blue-hair boy spoke with the two digidevils, the four of which all familiar with each other. The Andromeda brothers and Boyfriend and Girlfriend.

Having crashed in there while being pursued, Girlfriend covered for them, saying they ran off. Curious as to what the Andromedas were doing at their at their house this late, Agoti figured he should just fill them in. Aldryx agreed too, knowing through Agoti they really had nothing to do with the Family's actions.

So, with a lot of 'washing' the details they gave a quick rundown on the heist from the mailroom takeover to the explosion that happened earlier. Names were fudged, Aldryx nudging Agoti to not reveal all the details.

Suffice to write, they were more than interested in helping the whole shebang. Apparently Boyfriend suspected something earlier when he ran into Kapi, Updike and some blue monster roaming the halls.

"Beep." The boy nodded. "I agree. That sounds really dangerous! But you can count on us!" Girlfriend said, a little worried for the two.

"Ah well, you two should probably bounce. Go stay somewhere else for the night. It's gonna get ugly here." Aldryx said.

"Beep boop?"

"Yeah Kapi was lying." Agoti laughed. "Heh, I appreciate it but our friends here...not exactly your friends. Not all like Kapi. That right, Ald?"

Aldryx grinned. "Yep. Got a certain 'goat-headed' guy helping us who I'm sure would love to speak with you."

Boyfriend's eyes widened, as did Girlfriend's. They knew.

"Though he has changed a lot. Not as...crazy? Either way-"

Girlfriend nodded. "You guys really sure? I love Dad but he's nuts. You, uh, know even if you throw them back to hell they'll be back right?"

Agoti held a hand up. "Don't worry we already got a plan for that. Really, I would have loved for you guys to help but we're good. You should get out of here though."

"You two are okay with this?" Aldryx asked. He didn't know Girlfriend as well as Agoti but finding her wholesale just okay with being robbed didn't add up.

"Mhm. They've had it coming. I love them but between people constantly attacking the compound and having to be watched they need to be taken down a peg. It'll be good for them."

"Beep!"

Girlfriend laughed. "And they keep sending hitmen after him. Don't worry about me. I have plenty saved."

Aldryx shrugged. "Well, I'm sorry for this."

Girlfriend laughed again. "Ah, don't worry. Anyways, I'm sure we can find somewhere to stay for the night." She got up and grabbed a schoolbag. "We'll start packing."

"Bebeop Beeeep?"

"Really? I'd love to meet your sister. You sure she's in town?"

Boyfriend nodded in agreement. "Awesome! It'll be like a sleepover. C'mon, BF, help me pack."

Boyfriend nodded and they got to work. "Is there anyone else we know on your team?" Girlfriend inquired.

Aldryx looked to Agoti. Though they trusted them they didn't feel like revealing everyone. "You guys know Whitmore? Bomb-headed guy? He's on too. Oh, his girlfriend too."

"Oh Carol's here too? Aw, you guys shoulda told me! We could totally have helped."

"Beeeep!" Boyfriend agreed.

"Yeah well, gotta take precautions and all that. Look, swear on it we'll have a party after this. Say, anything we should worry about?" Agoti said as Aldryx got up, ready to leave.

Girlfriend paused, thinking it over. "Well Dad told us all to leave him alone for the night. He and Mommy have some big thing planned. Oh, right. Psychic was going to take us, Hex and my brother and sister off the compound."

"Beep!"

Aldryx shook his head. "We got Hex don't worry. Psychic's a little busy right now. He's probably not coming."

"Any idea what they got planned?" Agoti got up, brushing himself off.

Girlfriend jammed her laptop and some stuffies into her backpack. "I don't know. He's been really secret about it. All I know is that he calls it the Laughing Plan." She shrugged.

"Yeah, think I heard someone else say that earlier. Who's here anyways?"

"Well, my brother and big sister are still here. I'll tell them to leave. Don't worry she's cool. Mommy is, er, was around." She chuckled, the mental image of Tabi or one of the team members chucking her into the portal being rather humorous.

"Beep!"

"Oh right, she's back."

"We're gonna be heading to the vault right after this." Agoti nodded.

"Well there are some vents along the ceiling. You two should be able to crawl through. It'll be much quicker get to there."

"Vents? Floor plan didn't mention that."

Girlfriend shrugged. "They added them later. You guys probably got an old plan. The uh, vault is voice activated. You need Mommy and Daddy's voices together. Dunno how you're going to get in, but the password is ninjamuffin99."

"Really? You know that?"

Girlfriend smiled. "Of course! Between you and me I already I have enough money anyways. We'll be fine." Boyfriend nodded in agreement.

"T-thanks." Agoti said, a little surprised at Girlfriend's 'betrayal'. "Anything else?"

"My big sister, she isn't like the others. She's a good person. Don't harm her."

"We won't. We're only here for the money."

"Don't you have another sister?"

"Oh, Cassandra? She hasn't returned from hell yet."

"Beepbop?!"

Aldryx smiled. "Tabi won't do anything rash. Trust me. Guy's changed a lot."

"He has. Swear on it." Agoti said. He looked up, seeing the large vent just above. "Anyone else?"

"Oh! Psychic, the, uh, butler, er, guy dad hired is around. He's kinda like my uncle actually. I'm not sure. They made him head of security. Be careful about him. Guy's weird. Like he can predict what you're gonna say."

"bbeep." Boyfriend nodded.

"I'll keep that in mind." Aldryx replied, cheekily.

"I think Kapi fought him actually." Agoti added, making it clear neither of them was actually paying attention to recent events.

"He saved BF once." Girlfriend added. "He's not like the others. I know he has a good side. Just, be careful with him."

"Thanks." Aldryx nodded.

"Best of luck you two. We'll meetup after this is over." Agoti said.

"You too! And uh, if you see Tabi. Tell him I'm sorry. I really didn't mean it. I swear-"

"I will. Don't worry."

"C'mon. We've wasted enough time already." Aldryx said. He had already moved dresser over and was using it as a step stool to get into the vent.

Flashing a quick smile at the two lovebirds, he nodded and joined Aldryx, the two disappearing into the vent.

Leaving them to pack up and depart on their own, Aldryx and Agoti turned back on their comlinks, having Solazar direct them with this new knowledge. They made sure to keep Tabi and you out of the loop, knowing Tabi's anger if he found out they spoke to his 'mortal enemy'.

"Terribly sorry for that excuse." Displo said as he returned to the computers.

"Is uh, everything okay?" Tess asked.

Displo sighed. "Almost. Tell Kapi what's about to happen is perfectly safe. I need to speak to one of his friends. Give me a second please." Displo turned on his comlink.

"Uh-huh. What's up?" S asked.

"S. Can you corrupt me?"

"Uh. I guess, sure. Why?"

"I shall explain momentarily. Please. If you will."

Displo watched as his world turned black. He was plunged into S' realm though this time S went straight to the black and red landscapes. Physically, a red eye appeared on Displo.

"Alright. We're here." S stood in front of Displo, appearing in flesh and blood.

"There is a robot with Kapi. Can you bring him here?"

S shrugged. "Dunno what you're playing it but sure. Gimme a sec."

A second was all it took when Displo saw Hex fall from the sky, landing in front of him. He looked scared, no doubt terrified from the sudden infection. Outside, Tess explained to a now frantic Kapi that Hex was indeed okay.

"W-whwat? Where am I?" Hex got up, startled as he looked around. He looked behind him, seeing a corrupted Sonic looking at him, arms crossed. He looked to the front seeing Displo, agent extraordinaire of IRIS.

"N-no! Not you! Y-you can't!" Hex said frantic. "They said you-"

"Enough." Displo said. "I'm not here to capture you."

"Oh. We aren't here to kill him? Bummer. BUMMER." S laughed.

"T-then what?" Hex took a step back, more scared of Displo than S.

"I summoned you here because IRIS won't be able to hear us."

"Oh, that's what we're doin? Screw this. When you want out lemme know." S warped away, instantly bored.

Hex looked at S as he vanished. "Is he..?"

"Nevermind him. I'll keep this brief. You are aware of the Carnival now correct? And IRIS' role in it?"

"I a-am." Hex wasn't sure what to think. This was all very sudden.

"IRIS heard about your appearance. Being that you are aligned with the Family they want you as a goal of this operation. I just finished speaking to them."

Hex shook his head, digital eyebrows narrowing on his face. He wasn't going to let this stand.

"That is what they think." Displo said before Hex could. "I have told them that you provided us confidential information regarding the Family as an informant. That you have personally worked with several of the team members such as Kapi and whomever else you may know on this team. That you are part of the Carnival."

"Uh, okay?"

"When this operation is over you will come to me, and I will back that story up. IRIS will give you up and relinquish any and all obligations they have to you."

"Y-you can do that?"

"Yes, if you are a member of this team. And if they try to disagree you will have Kapi and the others stick up for you. I shall too."

"O-okay. Do I need to do anything else?"

"Tell Kapi the plan and have him relay it to everyone verbally. Do not use the comlinks. I'm not sure if any external IRIS personal are listening. Do this and I will make sure you are free."

"Y-you'd do that for me? I thought you were against me..."

"It's complicated, as it's always been. This is how I make it right."

"T-thank you." Hex said, digital tears in his eyes.

"Good. Now get to the plan. S! We are done here." Displo commanded. S didn't return, both Hex and Displo just flashing back to reality.

"You good?" Annie asked, standing near Displo. She stood at the cameras watching, drink in hand.

"Indeed. I righted a wrong, solved a problem that would affect us later. Did I miss anything?"

Annie shrugged. "Pompom's pissed."

"What do you mean I have to stay inside?!"

"It's too dangerous." Nikusa said. She wasn't budging. Stuck inside, Pompom was back to waiting around. Nikku tried to keep her entertained, showing her all sorts of cool stuff in the mailroom, asking if she could use her magic to build better defenses, in case Mommy or Daddy came by. Annoyed she took a seat at the cameras next to Nikku, looking at overview of the compound. Watching the cameras Tess continued her commanding. She looked to the map, seeing yours's and Tabi's markers slow down.

You had to hand it to Tabi. He'd been keeping his cool. There had been several points where he could've easily snapped a guards neck or started raising hell but didn't. He controlled himself well.

You and he remained focused, Tabi leading, you occasionally glancing to the map. Going through a mishmash of crimson carpet, oak walls and paintings of plenty from one floor to another to an eventual breakpoint where the vault room lay.

As you rounded a corner you knew that fateful room would be nearby. While previously on a second floor you and Tabi dipped back to the first, ending up somewhere in a maze of backrooms.

The Andromedas you heard, found some other route, themselves getting close.

As movements went through and you and Tabi made it closer you noticed a tense, almost worried look scattered across his face. Different from the dark-nostalgic look from before. Something was gnawing at him.

"Hold on." You say, putting a hand on his shoulder. He tensed up further.

"What is it?" He hissed, nearly bumping into a corner.

"Are you alright? You seem worried. We need you 100 for this."

He stopped. "I-I'm fine. Let's do this."

"Uh-uh. I can tell." You cross your arms as Tabi turns back.

"Argh. Fine. I'm hungry. But there's no time for that kind of crap. We're too close. I can eat after."

You shrug. "I mean, the Andromedas are still a ways off. No harm in a little detour. We'll make it quick."

Tabi shook his head. This was supposed to be some epic conclusion, lead up to a big fight and now he was seriously considering taking a side quest to get some food.

He shook his head as he processed it. "Sol." Tabi said into the comlink. "Where is the nearest kitchen?"

"Hm? Hungry are we? I told you before you should have packed a snack." Sol said condescendingly.

"Just tell me before I change my mind."

"Very well. If you go back round 2 corners, down the perpendicular hallway right, the 4th door on the left should be a small kitchen and pantry."

"Got it."

"...?"

"What?..Argh. Fine Thank you Sol." Tabi spat, turning off the comlink before Solazar could make another quip.

You were about to make a comment before Tabi grabbed your hand, running off. Sol really was like a father to him and despite his urgency, Tabi continued to check corners and ensure the coast clear. At least, until he made it to the kitchen.

Eager to get back to the mission he kicked open the doors, not checking through the window if it contained any workers. It did, and through gasps they recognized the scorned goat man.

He reacted fast and drew the Nagant 1895, quickly shooting each demon before it could make a move. He was ruthless. He at least checked the hallway before entering so it remained unlikely anyone heard. Regardless, you got to work moving the bodies out of the way in case someone did come running.

The kitchen was a typical industrial style one. Grey-metal everything, gigantic table in the centre for placing all the food on, industrial size freezers and coolers, complete with two-way doors and stoves, ovens, pots and pans the works.

Tabi arrived at a good point too, the demons having just carted off leftovers from Daddy's meal. Tabi went to town on them. You, feeling slightly peckish yourself had a few as well.

Springrolls, cylindrical pastries stuffed with shrimp, veggies and a single basil leaf. You guessed shrimp since one lay unfinished, its contents pouring out where someone had chomped. Though a bit damp from the oil, they tasted good. A massive basil leaf was neatly folded under the dough giving each roll a consistent look of a green splotch on the same side of each.

Next to the rolls was a dip with streaks of yellow, bright red, white with speckles of green and purple littered throughout. A few crackers and soft pita surrounded the bowl. It smelled cheesy, though upon Tabi tasting it he remarked what the red colour meant. "Crab dip. Very good."

Trying it, you agreed.

You wondered if they caught it from the nearby body of water or had it imported.

"Hm. Those demons can cook." You muse.

Grabbing a muffin with a strong ginger scent Tabi finished. He bit into it finding a crunchy exterior and moist interior. "Da. The only thing I miss from here." Tabi said quietly.

Though the temptation to tease was great, you knew the mission had to be resumed. With a full stomach and head full of righteous justice you and Tabi left, getting ready to leave.

"Maybe after all this is over we can hire some demon cooks." You joke.

"Not a bad idea."

While things looked promising Tabi quickly resumed his subdued attitude upon hearing news from S.

"Reporting that BF and GF have left the property. Dunno what got 'em go spooked but judging from the bags they are outta here! Heh, kid still looks a bit like Sonic. I wonder if doppelgangers..." You tuned the rest out, wondering how Tabi would take it.

He merely looked away, a crestfallen expression on his face.

"W-Well, can't win 'em all." You said unhelpfully.

"Whatever." He said sombrely. "It's not her that needs to suffer for it."

"That's right. C'mon." You go head of him and take his hand. Boney, but still warm to the touch. "Let's end this."

Tabi smiled as the two of you left the kitchen.

Cauda 13 - Dracula in the Throne Room

"You're dead! Your families are dead! Everyone you ever knew, DEAD!"

"All satisfied are we?" Solazar asked through your comlink. Though Tabi couldn't hear him though knew Solazar was speaking to him.

"What is that hothead calling me now?" Tabi asked, giving you a side glance.

"Tell him if he wants I shall make a feast after this is over." Solazar said cheekily.

"I'll pass. Not getting in-between this." You say.

Tabi grinned slightly, turning on his comlink.

Now Playing...

Artist: Daizo Dee Von

Song: ____

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_7hc4PhTwFM

With a belly full, Tabi lead, taking you back the path, not hiding any longer. He checked his weaponry as you and him went to the vault room. Bulletproof vest, flamethrower, revolver, assault rifle, hunting knife, incendiary grenades.

A tried-and-true soldier and pyromaniac. Everything in place.

You couldn't help but refresh your weaponry. Police-issued combat shotgun, two handguns, munitions, a flashbang and a police baton, aka an extendo.

Based on the map you were underground in some random corner of the manor, the same carpet and fancy walls covering everything. Not in the same part Team Zig traversed but adjacent. This section had no connection outside, nor twisted dungeon built in.

The way Tabi walked you expected him to start yelling for Daddy any second. He looked pissed; shoulders tensed. Silently, you were worried. Much as Daddy deserved death this wasn't an assassination mission. It was a robbery. You didn't want Tabi going overboard.

The Family didn't make an attempt to conceal the vault room. Found at the end of the hallway, door off to the left where it abruptly ended. Several steel tables lined the sides where entry logs regarding the vault were. Several art pieces sat atop the table alongside trophies from music awards. The hall doubled as a makeshift storage for other valuable things the Family owned.

Then finally, two huge oak doors, patterns of fire, crimson red curtains and tapestries of gold embossed upon the door. A glowing yellow gem was embedded at the top of both doors, ominously shining.

"Stay sharp you two." Solazar said.

There was no turning back now. After taking that gold you would step into being a full-on criminal. At least, you would have thought that had you not done all the practice before hand. You were already a 'villain', long before you even stepped into this manor.

Touching the door handle you hesitate, even realizing you forgot to breath. There really would be no turning back now, the pressure from opening that door immense.

Tabi put his hand on yours.

"To the lost." He muttered.

You let out a deep breath. "No delaying the inevitable." Heart racing, ready for anything. You wished you had some water.

"Go get 'em!" Tess shouted from the comlink, lightening the mood.

Pushing open the doors you were greeted with a bright open room. Massive across all four walls the ceiling stretched up several meters. Never mind a room to hold a vault, this was a throne room.

Like the rest of the manor, ancient oak walls surrounded you with huge red curtains hanging like sports banners from the wall. These ones were a little more detailed, the symbol of The Family on each one. Red carpet covered the floor, a gold motif creating a path directly to the vault at the end of the room.

The only out of place thing were the steel tables that were placed by the walls, various piles of money on them and scales for counting.

At the end sat a gigantic gold-coloured vault door, impossible to open by hand or force, a small console to the side. In true throne room fashion, the vault sat atop a stage, a few steps leading up to it. A throne should've been there, one for Daddy and one for Mommy. The room looked mythical, even moreso than the rest of the manor. This could have been in some ancient castle, somewhere in Europe.

No throne did in fact exist, though a king did sit presently. After observing the room you and Tabi clued into who sat in front of the vault.

Though not on a throne but a folding chair sat none other than Daddy Dearest. You couldn't be surprised; it was all to obvious. Tabi too looked to have expected this outcome, his yellow eyes changing, flickering to a white flame.

"Heh. I was wondering when you'd show up." Daddy's husky voice spoke.

During the investigation you'd gotten so used to his photo you could describe him instantly.

Black dress pants, a black dress jacket, wristwatch that probably cost more than your entire house and gold belt that shimmered under the light. No shirt underneath, it exposed demonic purplish skin and dark grey tufts of chest hair. Chiseled muscle hid his underneath the hair, though you and Tabi knew his strength.

"I was hoping Psychic didn't have bad intel."

Atop his head, the darkest grey hair, a cow lick, a loop around the top of it, spikes on each side as if he had horns. His eyes were glowing red, black voids around them demonstrating his lack of humanity, a huge grin on his face inside that rock-hard chin. He'd been expecting for this too.

"Just couldn't keep away could you?"

He spelled danger in every sense of the word. Nevermind his reputation, standing in front of you him you start to have second thoughts, anxiety if you could even take him. Superstrength, speed, intelligence. He was the patriarch and knew just how powerful he was. You needed the Andromedas.

The operation was planned in such a way to avoid confrontation though fate could only be changed so much.

"Heh. It should have just been you Tabi. This pig has nothing on us compared to our history."

Tabi said nothing, glaring with hatred on his face. With Tabi's mind a rollercoaster of emotions all ranging from anger to violence, Daddy turned his attention to you.

"You remember what I said to you?" Daddy asked you directly. "The next time you see my face will be the last."

He stood up, the chair rebounding slightly at his weight. "You got off easy. You should've seen what I had planned for you."

The threat looked to have some weight, you narrowly catching Tabi put his hand on his waist, ready for a trickshot. You touch his arm, motioning the comlink as a reminder to wait for Agoti and Aldryx.

"The police chief. Was like a father to you. Kept sticking up for you. Even to the end." He spoke as if speaking to an audience, voice echoing around the room.

As Daddy spoke to you Tabi put his flamethrower down and cracked his knuckles. He wouldn't need it yet.

"What does that mean?" You couldn't help but find yourself intimidated.

"I'm sure you'll see him later."

You shake your head. "Whatever. He's dead to me."

"Heh, not quite the pup you were. Not like this goat. You know why I made him like that? So he could be sacrificed!"

Tabi didn't react, though had retracted his hand. It took every fibre of his being not to shoot Daddy. He knew he had to wait.

The Andromedas were coming.

Daddy looked at you two smarmily. "How do you even intend to open the vault? I don't see a drill, nary a saw for getting in! You better have thermite in those bags!"

"We don't need any." Tabi said.

You hear Agoti say he is seconds away. Tabi does too, readying his hand again.

"You ready?" You ask.

"Always." Tabi responded.

You draw a handgun first, as does Tabi his revolver.

Now Playing...

Artist: W¯¯

Song: 盲目地

Link: https://youtu.be/EiqM5mNLYQ4

As if it were made of paper, Daddy picked up the chair and crushed it, turning it into a crumbled piece of metal. He tossed it aside. "You think bullets can stop me?"

He started walking forward, hands out at his side. Tabi shot first, emptying his whole clip in a blinding fury. He shouted something you couldn't make it out.

The bullets hit Daddy directly, several piercing his chest and jacket. Though, while it looked like it hurt it did little to stop his movement, the same twisted grin on his face. The bullets didn't even pierce his skin!

Clip empty Tabi pushed you aside, motioning to move away.

"Good call." Daddy said happily. He lunged at Tabi; hands out ready to wring his neck. Despite the show of aggression Tabi remained focused, ducking out of the way. He grabbed Tabi's revolver and crushed it. "Nice little peashooter. Lot good that did you."

Letting it fall he looked down, seeing Tabi also look there. A few of the incendiary grenades, pins out were on the ground. They exploded, enveloping Daddy in a burst of fire. While the grenades chained each other, Tabi ran to you, drawing the RPK-47. He loaded a barrel into it, ready for war.

As the fire and explosion died down Daddy stood up. Though his clothes were covered in ash they remained fine, as did he as well. "Bit more a soldier than before."

"I'll kill you."

"Ha! I am immortal! There is nothing you can do to me!"

"I'll show you what we got!" A new voice shouted in anticipation. The three turned to the door, seeing Agoti and Aldryx burst in, ready for battle.

Spitting oil up a Agoti shot a glob at Daddy. It hit him directly.

"Tabi! Now!" Aldryx shouted. Tabi let the gun roar. Aldryx too, fire erupting out of his hands shot forth. The fire hit the oil creating a second incendiary explosion.

You watched in awe, swearing the fire turn blue briefly, both being able to coordinate so well. It made the room sweltering. The fire looked to get bigger for a second, realizing later it was Daddy himself casting it, protecting himself from external burns. As it died out he wiped his face, grin turning to a frown. "More of you." He declared. "Ah yes, the Andromedas. How's your dad, still a coward?"

From the comlink you heard Solazar slam the desk shouting, "Show him what we are made of!"

You noticed parts of Daddy's skin had turned a dark purple. Their fire did some damage, even if he didn't display any pain.

Daddy spat upon the ground, the spit sizzling as it hit the carpet. Scalding ashes and traces of sparks covered the carpet now, several of the curtains caught fire, starting to burn up.

"Alright, that was cute, but I've had enough playing."

Making the choice instantly he charged Agoti. In response, Agoti spat more oil, managing to blind him again. He jumped out of the way, just as you opened fire, trying to see if you could hit Daddy in the burnt spots. Several bullets did hit, but impossible to tell if they did damage.

Momentum pushing Daddy, he hit the wall, slamming into table in front. As he wiped his eyes, he picked up the entire table threw it where he guessed someone to be.

Guessing correctly, Aldryx was unable to dodge the steel table, the object hitting and sending him and it into a wall where the vault was. It landed on him, you unable to see anything but his legs.

Daddy got up, seeing clearly now.

"Lo how they fall. I should never have let Nikusa deal with you. That was a job for demons." Daddy rose his hand up, fire emitting out of it.

"Agoti run!" Tabi shouted, firing off the RPK again. Hitting his arm, the bullets forced the fires off path, giving Agoti ample time to dodge.

You finish your clip, bullets hitting his back. They really weren't doing anything beside ripping his jacket. You needed a change of plans.

Agoti jumped back as Daddy ran for him. He hit the wall, and did the first thing to his mind, climbing the curtain, easily getting atop before Daddy could grab him.

"She loves me. What can I say?" Agoti said sarcastically.

Daddy growled and grabbed the bottom of the curtain. Fire exploded out of his hands, erupting up the curtain like a volcano.

With Tabi and Agoti focusing Daddy's agro you run to Aldryx, seeing he was already getting the table off himself.

Agoti jumped to the curtain beside him, again spitting oil at Daddy. Sparks in the air it exploded again, temporarily blinding him.

With the curtain ablaze the fire began to spread, the room getting a red haze. With how gung-ho Daddy had become he must have really been pissed.

You help Aldryx up, himself barely affected the table. As you pull him up you notice a notification on your helmet regarding O2 levels. It played a notification about air quality.

Hearing it, Daddy turned to you. "Oh, what's wrong? Can't handle a little smoke. Let's up the ante."

As Agoti landed, Daddy ducked and grabbed the carpet, ripping part of it off the ground and pulling Agoti towards him. He grabbed the digidevil, throwing him against the wall. Judging by the dent it made, that hurt. Something happened too, part of the wall clicked causing the door closed, a metal door appearing in front of it, sealing the room.

"Insulated. Us demons can breath a little fire. What about you?"

Seeing his brother fall, Aldryx ran to Agoti, shouted, "keep Daddy busy!"

Feeling energized you taunt. "Oh, you worried you can beat us fair?"

"Oh I've never needed to play fair." Daddy laugh.

If he was gonna do that you weren't gonna 'hold' back either. You mutter in the comlink. "Flashbang."

Daddy doesn't hear it and you throw it closing your eyes. He looked right at it, realizing it too late to look away.

A bright light enveloped the room for a split second. Again blinding Daddy you descend upon him, reloading the gun. Getting close you aim and empty the clip attempting to hit the same spot on his arm. He snarls at you, blindly trying to grab. After the final bullet hits the same spot it pierces, Daddy wincing. Purple blood started to drip out of the now open wound.

Fire erupted around him, the blast knocking you back. It cauterized the wound and melted the bullet but didn't stop the damage. Keeping a mental note of that you get up. Tabi runs in front of you, getting ready for another go.

With blood drawn, you draw the combat shotgun, pulling it off your leg. Loading a shell you get ready.

The thought crossed your mind to that in terms of pure skill you could beat him in hand-to-hand combat. That edge fades instantly, when it's clear that if Daddy got a hold on you it would be a death sentence.

The others knew this battle would rely on space and ranged weaponry.

Stepping beside Tabi, you fire the shotgun, shells hitting Daddy. It looks to do damage, Daddy glaring at you while flinching.

"Yes. Keep fighting. I want you to be conscious while I grind you to dust." He growled.

Tabi and you blocking the stage now, you hear Aldryx shout something.

"Give me that!" Daddy said has ran towards you, hand out for the shotgun. You fire it again, the recoil doing little to stop you.

Still aiming for daddy, Tabi shoved you out of the way again, jamming the barrel right under Daddy's chin. There was a brief moment neither moved. Daddy's hands were on the gun, and Tabi's finger on the trigger. Daddy grinned. "I can dodge it." Tabi pulled the trigger down, bullet ejecting right into his chin as Daddy crushed the barrel. You couldn't see what happened but saw a small explosion, Tabi fly back and Daddy too, but catching himself easily.

He held what remained in the gun in his hand, scrap metal. With a leap he closed the distance between him and Tabi, kicking the goat boy in the stomach. Grabbing his shoulders, he knocked Tabi to the ground, fist slamming into Tabi's snout, the bone shattering his jaw.

Tabi struggling, Daddy pushed Tabi to the ground, ready to choke him out. You didn't even process it, instead aiming the shotgun next to Daddy. In the struggle he and Tabi were close to the wall. You fire the gun, clearing missing Daddy. Realizing this fast and was about to make a quip only to be stopped by splinters exploding from the shotgun blast hitting the wall. It blinded him yet again, wooden splits also stabbing into his eyes.

With him paused, you drop the shotgun and grab Tabi's hunting knife, dropped in the struggle. You run up to Daddy, using all your force and jam it square into his back. Mind now realizing what happened to Tabi you blanked out forgetting about the arm wound.

Such a task was harder than it looked, the knife reacting like trying to stab a brick wall. It pierced his clothing sure, said clothing already burnt, but it didn't pierce his flesh, doing nothing but minorly annoying him.

Even twisting it did nothing.

"You think that toy's gonna do anything to me?" Daddy shouted as he turned his head around. He grabbed the knife and using his knife pushed the tip. The metal splitting the piece lunged forth, jamming right into your helmet. If not for the visor it could have been fatal, the blade instead just nicking you.

Solazar saw the camera glitch out, the solarisapien mere seconds from intervening.

Between the fire, smoke and pain you and Daddy were in another distraction made itself known. The room shook from the centre. Turning you saw the vault door begin to roll open, the movement making a screeching noise. Agoti and Aldryx stood at it, Aldryx's arm around Agoti.

"WHAT THE F-HOW DID YOU OPEN IT!" Daddy screamed at the two. He let go of the knife.

With Daddy's attention turned to the vault Tabi reached for his pocket, pulling out an additional handgun. Thinking quickly he pushed for Daddy's attention, struggling.

Daddy looked back down. He was about to say something to Tabi but the goatboy acted first, cocking the hammer, jamming the gun into Daddy's mouth and firing. Remembering, you grab what was left of the knife and jam it into his arm. Even though the tip was gone, the remaining steel stayed sharp, the vertex entering his arm, re-opening the wound. Jamming it in you jump.

Daddy let go of Tabi, toppling over as he coughed from bullets hitting his throat. You rush to Tabi, grabbing a hold and helping him up.

Daddy choked, coughing up a purplish blood as he spat out the bullet. "Bastard." He muttered, wiping himself.

"Guess you aren't so invincible." Tabi said between breaths. You see the bone fragments from Tabi's snout re-form magically and re-assemble themselves.

"I'm more invincible than you." Tabi said.

The strategy was determined, you realizing what Tabi had done. His outside may have been tough but inside he was just as fleshy as the rest.

You run with Tabi and retrieve your shotgun, just a metre away.

Tabi watched as a green glow enveloped Daddy's head just for a second. Magic. He healed himself.

Letting out a laugh, he spoke with ever-grandeur. "Just give up. You're all dead anyway. Die now, maybe I won't go after your families."

Tabi's eyes narrowed, not even considering Daddy's offer. He reloaded the gun.

"Got lot more bullets with your name on it." His voice cracked, Russian accent in full bloom.

Daddy spat, crackling his knuckles.

With the vault open the O2 levels increased. Another warning about air quality must have appeared on your visor as Daddy made a comment about it.

"You know what, fine, I'd rather you be conscious for this." Not wasting another heartbeat Tabi opened fire, now trying to aim for Daddy's face. You do too, aiming for the eyes now. It's hard, the combination of smoke, fire, sweat, blade piece and adrenaline making aiming challenging.

Daddy charged you and Tabi, finding the bullets distracting but not painful. He was pissed now; Tabi having uncovered a weakness. He serpentined and lunged at Tabi, swiping with claws asunder, doubling a flaming spell adding heat to them. It slashes easily through the fabric of his hoodie. Caught on the vest it rips through, protecting his stomach. He slices through the vest, piercing his skin. Not enough to disembowel but enough that it stung like hell, claws ripping skin, bleeding. It took Tabi a second to react, Daddy then uppercutting the goatboy.

"Kur.." Tabi muttered as he hit the ground.

In close range you fire the shotgun, police-instinct taking on. It hits him in the end, some shells possibly getting into his face.

Daddy didn't have time to react as Agoti jumped upon him, grabbing a curtain and wrapping it around his head. Daddy swung wildly, knocking you and the shotgun asunder. You shot a glance to Tabi who remains unmoving on the ground. Nevermind him, you see Aldryx already going to his aid.

You rip the knife out of the helmet, ignoring some blood streaming from your face. Holding the sharp tip you charge Daddy hoping his front wouldn't be as hard. As Agoti tried to hold him steady, you stab, the knife entering the curtain. You weren't sure what you stab but it didn't work. "Damnit!" You switch hands and try to slash him instead. You weren't sure if you managed to pierce or not, Daddy erupting in flames, burning both you and Agoti.

Agoti jumped off, now trying to stop the flames from engulfing him, screaming in pain.

Daddy knocked the knife piece out of your hand as he grabbed your shoulders. Hitting with a punch to the chest he grabbed your head, ripping the helmet clean off. You reach for one of the pistols, Daddy stopping it. He grabbed your hand, crushing it easily. Gun out of the way he grabbed your throat "What did I say-AH-"

From behind Daddy you see Tabi jump biting onto his hand as he was about to reel it back. Tabi bit as hard as he could, pulling back to shred the flesh. It stopped Daddy's assault on you as he had to focus on this new pain. Punching you back, he slammed Tabi on the ground repeatedly and still feeling the bite threw Tabi into you, the both of you falling backwards.

Joining the Andromedas, the four of you stood in front of the vault, Daddy in front. The four of you were spent, only Aldryx in an okay condition.

Somehow the room wasn't collapsing despite the flames covering everything. With the vault door open ventilation improved the air quality.

As if nothing happened, Daddy wiped his hand on his face, smearing some blood.

"Hehe. I'll admit you all did get a bit fiercer than I thought. Now then. Who should I kill first."

Agoti stepped forward. "How 'bout none of us? We haven't even gotten started. I still got one more trick." Agoti said. He spoke out of breath but strangely confident.

You go to help Tabi up, his arm going around your shoulder. You weren't sure what Agoti was playing at and neither did he. Aldryx too look confused but said nothing.

"What the hell are you blabbering about now?"

"Ald, Tabi, (Y/N), you getter make some space." Agoti said.

You did though Aldryx couldn't help but be worried. Agoti never mentioned this to him before.

He cracked his knuckles. "So you're evil right? Think you're so bad. Yo, you wanna see evil? I got you. S. It's time we to do this."

Though your comlink was ripped off with the helmet, you hear it from Tabi's, S screaming "WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO! I get to finally shine!"

You weren't sure what happened next. Updike explained it to you later, something called 'eldritch time-space fusion'. Agoti was engulfed in a darkness as he stepped forward. Something churned in the pit of your stomach, a strange feeling, completely alien to you.

"You see, S and I got a little secret." Agoti said proudly. Aldryx helped you and Tabi make space as Agoti changed. "You'll see..."

Speaking up you heard S' voice from Agoti. "Yo Daddy. It's about time we meet. Name's S, a true monster."

Daddy watched with mixed feelings as Agoti transfigured into some kind of monster.

Smile wider than Agoti could normally a sharp row of teeth became visible. Blood dripped from his eyes, pooling around his shoes. He creaked his head ever so slightly...the same way you'd seen S do. The tendrils that covered his head rippled moving more vibrantly than they normally did. From where Agoti's hands were blackened tendrils slithered from under his sleaves. His clothes became a darker red as if stained from the blank ink or blood that fell from him. Larger tendrils erupted from his back, an unholy energy emitting from him causing the flames to flicker.

You weren't sure what this being was. It wasn't S and it wasn't Agoti. And you were far to stressed to come up with some name for it.

Many questions arose, none of which could easily be answered. How could he even do that? How long could S port into Agoti? Did this mean S reached real-life? None of it mattered right now.

Now Playing...

Artist: Body 13

Song: With the Finality [Excerpt + Lo-Fi]

Link: https://youtu.be/Mv7fhnyWOQA

It hit you. From that first meeting with S. "Wait why can I port into you? You don't look like a robot. Did-you-Did you eat a genesis? The hell is wrong with you!"

Daddy appeared unsure, a mix of skepticism and what you hoped was fear.

"So what?" Daddy spat.

"Not impressed?" Agoti(?) asked. His voice sounded distorted, as if others were speaking with him. "I'll show you fear Daddy." Agoti(?) said, "Show you what happens when you help ruin Mobius."

"What the hell are you?"

"Just the next evolution of evil...Let's call it. E-XTREMELY EVIL! E! X! E!" The creature screamed in joy.

What happened next appeared to you in flashes. Both Agoti(?) and Daddy were fast, the two also evenly matched. Thinking back on it was some BS Agoti pulled but like the Family never fought honourably. Why should we?

Agoti(?) charged Daddy, hands out and tentacles aimed. Daddy prepared for the assault, his hands lighting up in fire. Agoti(?) struck first, fist right into Daddy's chest as Daddy grabbed Agoti(?)'s face. His palms grabbed either side of the creature's face, as if trying to break it apart. The tendrils behind Agoti(?) shot forth, jamming their sharp ends into Daddy's shoulder. Between the smoke filling the room and your own light-headedness you swore you saw it pierce.

Daddy pushed hard, an audible snapping sound echoing across the room. He growled in pain as the tentacles flayed his shoulders. A snapping sound was heard and Agoti(?) stopped. He froze.

Sighing, Daddy let go as Agoti(?) fell to the ground.

Between figuring your own wounds and Tabi's entire body in pain you didn't notice the fight stop. Aldryx held his breath.

"..that's it?" Daddy asked.

As if being pulled by a string Agoti(?) rose up, hands adjusting his neck back in place. Landing on the ground he cracked his knuckles, the same distorted smile present on him.

Daddy shook his head. "You're just like that other freak running around." Finally feeling pain, Daddy took note of both his shoulders bleeding. Agoti(?) was successful.

Agoti(?) held a hand out, motioning for Daddy to make a move.

He grimaced. "You're dead! Your families are dead! Everyone you ever knew, DEAD!" Daddy shouted, now angry. "I'll smoke you all out if I have to. And if I have to bring an army back from hell I WILL."

Daddy erupted in flames, an aura burning around him. The fires reached an insurmountable temperature, lighting the curtains nearby and turning the room into an inferno.

Agoti(?) said nothing. Though your helmet long gone you knew the O2 was about to get unbearable. Hobbling with Tabi you and him head into the vault.

With Daddy sufficiently distracted Aldryx ran to the other side of the room, slamming the indented wall. The door roared open fresh air rushing into the room. Though it burned brightly you could tell the air was more breathable now.

Agoti(?) started walking forward and vanished. As if the world blinked he appeared right into Daddy's flame, tentacles and hands ready for another assault. Agoti(?)'s darkness sizzled as the two were engulfed in flames.

With police work came you'd seen violence, officers beating on others, others beating on officers. And up to a certain point you couldn't stomach it. When two people of equal matching were just going at each other the only thing changing was the amount of blood on the ground.

You saw darkness sizzle as Daddy set fire to the void Agoti(?) brought, saw that monster stop flames as they arose with the mere wave of an arm. Daddy sliced through Agoti(?)'s hoodie, disemboweling him but doing little to stop his fight. He just healed up. Daddy healed too, in increasingly slower intervals. At some point he sunk his teeth into Daddy, the demon forcing a fist into Agoti(?) and lighting up his insides.

"...we should help." Tabi muttered. "Like hell we are. I'm not getting involved in that." You said. Avoiding the massive confrontation on the room Aldryx joined your side.

You didn't know the extent of Agoti(?)'s powers. Maybe he could have just killed Daddy. You weren't even sure who was in charge of the body. Either way when Agoti(?) decided he'd had enough he grabbed Daddy's hands. The two locked in a game of mercy Agoti(?) slammed his head into Daddy's breaking free. Tendrils from under Agoti(?)'s arms shot through piercing Daddy's chest as they hooked somewhere in the rib cage and pulled him forward.

They threw Daddy into the air, Agoti(?) jumping up too. Tendrils aimed all together and directly up Daddy fell downwards, impaled on them, piercing both his jacket, skin and you didn't see how deep they went.

Daddy was thrown to the ground as Agoti(?) laughed. The beings formally known as S and Agoti stood triumphantly over him, nothing but ashes, burnt everything, sparks and Daddy lying face down, purplish blood around him.

Daddy rose, coughing. "You think that's it? You're nothing but a punk. Kill me. And I'll see you when I get back." Daddy laughed.

Agoti(?) had kept that same twisted smile the whole time. This time is changed. "I'll send you to hell. But it won't be pretty." Agoti(?) charged Daddy as the demon blocked. Smashed through his arms, Agoti(?) knocked Daddy down, pouncing upon him and punching him.

"THIS IS FOR POMPOM, MOBIUS, TESS, TABI, NIKKU..." Agoti(?) screamed, the distortion making the lights flicker. Daddy stopped fighting back as Agoti(?) wailed on him for each member of the crew.

"...ACE!" The voice wasn't emotional and as Agoti(?) named each member of the crew (many of which were never wronged by Daddy) it just sounded like he was looking for justification to kill Daddy. Tabi must have realized this to as he shouted.

"S STOP!" Tabi shouted.

Agoti(?) froze as if someone held his fist back. He got up.

"Now then." Agoti(?) said. He snapped his fingers. In a mere second all the fire stopped, everything reduced to ashes.

"That's what you get for messing with the Carnival and Mobius!" Agoti(?) spat. For a brief minute he was engulfed in the darkness, cocooning him before vanishing. Agoti fell to the ground, returned to his normal form. Aldryx rushed to help him up, the digidevil exhausted.

"Bro that was so fucking cool." Agoti giggled.

"Is he..?"

"You'll never win. I will be back. You'll never survive my plan...." Daddy muttered in a pool of his own blood.

"We already won." Tabi spat, pushing your arm off. He stood on his own, shaking and trying to stand upright. He limped towards Daddy, leaving the vault. You stuck by him as he struggled to move.

Daddy didn't respond, just lying motionless.

"He's not dead." Agoti said. "S said no killing. Something about a pact with you actually." He shrugged.

Agoti and Aldryx walked towards the vault, ready to start looting. You vaguely heard Aldryx congratulate him as you and Tabi were left alone.

Tabi just stared forth at Daddy. No expression just staring blankly. It was if he was waiting any second for Daddy to get up and resume the battle.

Something to continue it.

You see some smoke emerge from Tabi's face as he just stood there. He was crying. It was finally over.

You thought you were crying, though feeling it you found your head bleeding slightly. Must have been one of the hits. You shake it off, realizing you must be in a state of shock.

Limping forward you slowly interlock yours and Tabi's hand.

"Let's go." You say quietly.

Tabi didn't move instantly. Instead, using his free hand put it on his ear, activating the comlink.

"W-w-w-. We won." He said, barely above a whisper.

You weren't sure how everyone reacted but judging from the brief loud sound before he shut the link off, you guess it was a celebration.

He started to walk towards the vault, still holding your hand. You stop him, instead pulling him into a hug. It's stunned him for a second, but he hugged, pulling you as tightly as he could. His eyes changed colour, resuming their golden victorious yellow.

Slain or not.

Daddy was defeated.

Cauda 14 - Paedophobia

"I WON'T LET YOU CORRUPT THOSE KIDS!"

It took a bit of water and a good kick to the stomach, but Sarvente woke up. Her first instinct was to cast magic in an attempt to blind everyone. Though she emitted a flash of light it was weak and nothing more than a brief spark.

Updike managed to calm her down by having S play his voice. When she understood her safety, she explained everything.

"They kidnapped me out of the prison after mass. They put me in that tank. I don't know how long I was there. They would move us around occasionally. There were three of us. Me, that blue demon and a feral one."

"That would be Blackjack." Updike said through S. "What did they do to you?" Currently, he and Huggy were somewhere in the manor maneuvering towards the vault. With Psychic gone he and Huggy took the gamble and re-entered, resuming their original plan.

With you, Tabi and the Andromedas currently engaged in the fight of your lives you weren't listening. Solazar too, watching the fight from your POV.

Sarvente, still sitting on the ground, felt her back, above her wings. The wounds where the pipes were in felt raw. "They took power from me. They would wait until I regenerated and do it again. I-I tried to escape but I couldn't. It was as if they could hear my thoughts. I didn't do anything bad. I swear, I promise. I-I am sorry."

"Don't be..." Updike stopped. "...Ace. Do you read me?"

S sighed, guessing he had become a glorified operator. He let Ace speak through him too.

"Yes?"

"Is Retro an archdemon?"

"I think so, why?"

"Dammit. They can't be that stupid..." Huggy watched as Updike became noticeably more anxious. Thinking it because of the guards he let out a cooing sound that it would be all right.

"I gotta go. You all take care of Sarv. I gotta make some calls. Tess! Displo!" Updike said hastily and hung up.

An awkward silence filled the room, Sarvente feeling the most out of place. One minute she was barely conscious and the next she was thrust into the real world, saved by people who she herself vaguely knew.

"What is going on?" She finally asked as thoughts whirled around her head.

A call on the intercom caught Nikku and Nikusa's attention. Already familiar with the special ringtone, they knew it was the police again. "You explain it. We got work to do." Nikusa said to S, pulling Nikku along. Watching Nikku leave, Sarvente remembered her from the arrest. "Huh.." The one who pretended to be her.

Still confused, Sarvente turned to S and Pompom.

"Where are we?"

"We're on the Dearest Family Compound! Late at night, June 30th!" Pompom shouted.

"T-the Family? S-so it was them." She shivered. "They captured me..."

"Well, you're all better now. You can thank Pompom here for finding ya." S said.

"So then you aren't with them? W-who are you people then?"

"We're the Carnival and we're planning on robbing the place!" Pompom declared. Matching her enthusiasm, S declared too. "Yep! Gonna bleed 'em dry!"

Rescued by common thieves, Sarv thought grimly.

"But then, why did you save me and him?" Sarv asked, motioning to Retro. He still lay sprawled out on the desk, unconscious.

"Well, we were supposed to just rescue Retro but I got bored, went exploring and found you." Pompom shrugged.

"There were three of us. Did you get the other one? He looked like a lion."

"Blackjack." S said. "Yeah. I think Starline got him."

Sarvente's eyes widened in shock, coming to a conclusion. "Wait! Get Updike back on the line!" She exclaimed.

"Why?"

"Lucifer needs to be warned. I-I can't go. She won't believe me. They need to be stopped!"

Tess butt in, linking with S. "Tell Sarvente we are on it. She should just rest for now." S did so, broadcasting it verbatim.

"I don't know how long it's been." Sarv muttered. She stretched her wings out, the feeling unusual to her. She could feel her magic slowly returning but knew she couldn't do much in her state.

"Thank you for saving me. I will make it up to you. It's what is just."

"So what are you anyways?" S asked. He hovered around, circling her, just a bit perplexed at to her stature.

"I am a demon."

"Yeah, but I've met other demons. You don't got the same vibe as them."

"I don't follow hell anymore. I've converted."

"Oh. Boring." S muttered. Sufficiently disgusted by Sarv he waltzed to Retro, seeing if he could rouse the life from him next.

"I remember you from before." Sarv said to Pompom. Looking at her she tried to remember her name. "You were at my arrest."

"I was! My name is Pompom. That's S over there and at the comms are Nikku and Nikusa."

"I see."

"Yeah me, Huggy and mom were all ready to fight but you guys were already done when we got there."

"I was there too y'know." S chimed in. He was playing with Retro's arm, waving hi with it. "But stupid Starline put me in timeout."

"Man, I just wanted to be in a big fight." Pompom said. "But I always get excluded. I wanna fight too!"

Chuckling softly, Sarv spoke. "You should not strive for combat. It is dreadful thing."

"Yeah well. Everyone I've seen is having fun. I should be able to as well. Zardy understands."

Sarv just smiled, finding Pompom's innocence rather humorous.

Elsewhere a dark figure listened. Having already checked the tank and alarm they found themselves angry Sarv escaped. He didn't get a good look at the thief, only seeing them vanish. His compatriot, known to him only as '23' hadn't returned either, leaving his card game lonely.

For his own sake and his 'employers' he looked. He knew Sarv had the 'evil', the same one present in all adults. Mad himself, he deluded it into believing the 3 archdemons were being punished. Sarv's crime though was different. She admitted it herself, corrupting the innocent when they caught her. While he didn't care for the other 2, Sarv was the worst one. Clutching a hatchet, he stalked carefully, first towards the mailroom and quickening his pace upon hearing unfamiliar voices within it.

With a heavy kick the door burst open, light flooding in from the mailroom. Such an action was only immediately seen by S, Pompom and Sarv.

Nikusa briefly glanced over, caring little about the clown now standing in the room. The police took precedence. They wanted to know about the vines that shot out of the storage room, some gangly black creature running about and shootouts on nearby rooftops.

Now Playing...

Artist: Tag-Yr-It

Song: Garden Fallout

Link: https://youtu.be/NB7YmGxt37Q

Team Lisp & Friends Vs. JJ, The Happy Clown

S saw him first, processing what this clown was doing.

He was shaking unnaturally, not in anxiety, worry or sickness. His upper torso vibrated in sync with his head, legs and feet absolutely still. He wore a grey shirt covering long arms and a large stomach, suspenders keeping the shape. The suspends rose out of dark grey pants hovering above red dancing shoes, same as the colour of the bow on top his chest and buttons forming a line underneath.

Maybe they were vibrant at one point, but grimy stains and time eroded them to a cloudy colour. White paint covered his head, as did red around the eyes and mouth, though like the rest of his attire, washed out, colour darker than it should be. His hair, rather what remained of it were stylized into two horns, frizzled that rose above and around his head. The clown's smile stood his most defining feature, appearing as if a century of laughter formed it. It stretched from hair-horn to chin to hair-horn, forming parabolically around purplish lips and yellowed teeth. This fact and not the attire or the shaking was what led S to believe this creature was no human. The smile reminded him of the chap from earlier he vanquished, annoyance setting in he'd have to handle another one.

Indeed, S was ready to charge it then and there, but this annoyance made him hesitate. What good was killing something who couldn't feel pain? It made his job a chore. Instead, he said nothing, waiting for the clown to actually declare himself a threat before doing anything. And it did, hoarse and crisp voice bellowing towards S, Pompom and Sarv.

"You escaped! Kids get away from that evil lady! Come with me instead! It's me! JJ the clown!"

Hollow eyes focused on Sarv, a demonstration of some kind of ability. It did nothing, the clown just shaking his head in annoyance. She was never phased by his ability.

Up until now Pompom's perplexity had only grown. Some clown with a hatchet showed up, warned them about Sarv and now told her to come with him. She was about to rationalize how this being was a villain before her eyes brushed past the clowns. Though it happened in an instant she froze, seeing pure madness, saw Zardy kill her family, saw sacrifices on the farm, saw Mackie split in two, saw Huggy paralyzed. None of it made any sense and before she could even process such visions they ended. Pompom screamed, falling over as she caught herself, now staring at the clown with pure unfiltered terror, having to manually stabilize her breathing.

Such a commotion caused Nikku to tense up and look back, though not for long as Nikusa beckoned her back to the radio, police now asking what the scream was.

'They can handle it.' Nikusa whispered to Nikku.

"Team Lisp. Status report! How's Pompom?!" Tess demanded over the comlink.

Whatever the clown did even got him scared, smile immediately flipping upside down. "I'm sorry! I didn't mean it! It wasn't for you!" He pleaded.

"We're uh fine. Just dealing with some BS." S muttered. "Pompom. You okay?"

She looked to S, still feeling terror though it had begun to fade. To her it happened so fast, like she'd taken a shot of hot sauce. She just felt a minute burning sensation now.

"He's one of my captors!" Sarv shouted. "Don't look into his eyes!" Sarv struggled to get up and stepped in front of Pompom. "You stay away from her!" She wobbled as she stood upright, still sore from the extraction.

S made his decision. He didn't care if this thing could feel pain. He hurt Pompom. Eyes lighting up red, he readied himself for combat, landing beside Sarv.

"I WON'T LET YOU CORRUPT THOSE KIDS!" JJ shouted, charging Sarvente, holding the hatchet. Sarv hit back instantly, casting the first spell in her mind.

A contingent of imps appeared around JJ, halting his progress. Though illusions, they began to swarm the clown, biting, chomping and trying to slay him.

With the fight getting intense, S grabbed Pompom, moving her aside for safety. Jets ready he was about to see if he could fly right through the clown. He only stopped as a familiar voice entered his head.

"S." He froze, annoyance bubbling within him. "It is me, Displo." Passionate and distinguished. S sighed. What did he want now? "S. Do you read me?"

"I do. What is this? What do you want?"

Insane himself, JJ could distinguish between the imps and real life. With his swings at them they began to flicker, the spell fading. Pompom realized she had to act, running back to Sarv. She held out a glowing blue hand to Sarvente. "Sarv! Here!" She shouted. Understanding exactly what Pompom meant she reached back, allowing a magic transfer to take place.

"S. That is another trollge. If I am correct you need to relinquish it."

"Argh no! Why me? Can't I just kill it?"

With the imps bolstered, Sarv continued her assault. Slowly she charged up another spell, intending to create a cage out of the discarded server racks. She just needed more time...

Swiping at another demon, JJ giggled maniacally. He figured out the game. Ignoring the imps, trying to rip his flesh, he bent forward and threw the hatchet direct at Sarv. It hit square right into her shoulder, blade embedded in her flesh. She fell over, writhing in pain. Hands glowing Pompom readied a thunder spell, electricity sparking within them.

"He said he is JJ correct? If so-"

"Look, sorry DP. Don't got time for this." S jumped up and jet shoes propelling targeted Sarvente.

Before JJ could get closer Pompom hit him with thunder, knocking him back a distance and smashing him into the metal shelving, bolstering the shock.

With aim S grabbed the hatchet, ripping it out of Sarv's shoulder. While such a move would normally cause blood to spill out, Pompom acted right away, casting healing on the wound as Sarv did too. The pain was immense, but such feelings no longer borrowed Sarv.

Allowing Sarv to heal, S landed and tossed the hatchet on the ground, standing beside Pompom as they now separated Sarv and JJ.

"Children, stay back." He said calmly. "I mean you no harm! IT's this witch. She's evil! She's controlling you!"

Pompom looked to S, ready for a snarky comeback, something about how JJ was a dead man, but S just stood there, unmoving. "C-Child?" He twitched.

Now Playing...

Artist: Paul Simmons

Song: Delavar's Lair

Link: https://youtu.be/dgyAM-VF3Ns

"I AM NOT SOME CHILD!" S screamed. "I AM AN AGELESS BEING, GROWN FORTHRIGHT PRIOR TO THIS PLANETS FORMATION!" He shouted at full volume. "I AM THE BEGINNING AND I WILL BE THE END!" He lunged at JJ, jet boots at full power. He aimed right for JJ's throat, claws hands extended. The two of them slammed into the racks, further disorienting the room, electronics flying everywhere. Claws extended he slashed as JJ, blood now spilling all over the place.

With Pompom on her own again she went to Sarv, helping her up. "Thank you young one."

They looked back to see S and JJ embattled near the ceiling, S flying around over with him, smashing into all the equipment and walls. Hard to see they witnessed S slashing at the clown, and the clown fighting back, massive hands trying to crush S. Whatever the case they saw as S' jets stopped mid-flight, the two crashing into the pile of electronics Pompom made for him. S body flew off, lifeless.

"FUCK!" S shouted from one of the nearby computers. With the increasing levels of violence, Nikusa and Nikku wrapped up the call with the police, keeping them at bay and threatening the life of the police chief. It worked well enough though, as Solazar tapped in he found police requesting IRIS and TGG support to the nearby area.

JJ got up, severely injured. S had done quite a number, shredding his shirt to ribbons and his flesh as well, claw marks embedded themselves into his skin. Seeing the slain body of the young hedgehog, JJ frowned. "I didn't mean it. I'm sorry." He cried, before turning his attention back to Sarv.

"NIKKU! GET TO MY BODY. FIX IT! I'M GONNA TEAR HIM APART!" S shouted.

JJ did something, as he glowed for a second. Suddenly, clones of his started to appear all around the mailroom, dancing and jeering. They disguised him as the real JJ, as he began dancing too, vanishing into the now crowd. With Nikku fixing S, Nikusa now getting involved and Sarv readying up more imps, tensions rose. Pompom got a page on her comlink and while she would have ignored it, the speaker got her full attention.

"Pompom, listen to me!" Displo called. "Just listen to me. I know how to defeat him."

"Aha!" Nikku declared.

"WE'RE SO BACK!" S' voice erupted from the metallic body. In an instant a forcefield emitted from him, shielding Nikku from the clowns. It exploded, vanishing all clones it. The first thing S did was grab Nikku and fly upwards, placing her on top of the servers.

Nikusa was ready for combat, but upon seeing the gaggle of clowns just shook her head and joined Nikku up top, not wanting to be a part of this. With the clown 'army' making it impossible to tell the real JJ, Sarv did a little magic of her own. Casting a stronger spell, the imps returned, larger and more in number. They began to attack the fake clowns, effectively turning the mailroom into a warzone. S joined too, launching his own lasers at the clowns, scanning for the real JJ. When I get my claws on him....

Feeling more energized thanks to Pompom's magic, Sarv flew upwards before one of the JJ's could strike her. She watched closely for any indication of the real JJ. The clowns had begun throwing stuff at her, vainly jumping to try and grab her.

Though the clowns ignored Pompom she got out of the way, climbing to the top of the "throne" she made S earlier.

"Yo, Rogue! Watch 'em for me!" S called Sarv. He had an idea. "Aiming a volt of electricity he shot it at the JJ clones, the lightning bolt ricocheting through them all causing them to flicker." As she watched carefully while dodging, she saw it, one of the JJ's not blinking or fading when the bolt hit it.

"Sonic, there!" Sarv shouted, using a spell to light JJ up.

"AAAAAUGH!" JJ screamed, tensing up. At first Pompom saw S hit him with lasers, though upon seeing a green smoke emit from JJ's back realized a new combatant joined.

Standing at the desk he previously laid on, RetroSpector. He stood, bags around his eyes and worn out. He held a hand up, coated in a green liquid. Acid. Judging from his stance, Pompom determined he shot that acid at JJ.

JJ turned. "You should have stayed dead." The other clowns vanished, fading quickly. JJ reached for the hatchet and grinned at Retro. He merely held his fists up, the same green liquid dripping from each.

S, ready to start firing rockets at JJ only stopped when Pompom called him. "S, over here!" She shouted. Flying over listened to what Pompom had to say. "That's so stupid!" He complained.

JJ ran at Retro, preparing to swing. But, as he reeled back, he found his arm stuck, a force holding him back. Indeed, Sarv cast a spell using her telekinetics to hold JJ back.

Retro saw the glow on his hand, knowing full well what Sarv did. Hands in front of his face he charged JJ as a boxer would, a flurry of acidic punches right into the clown's gut. Mixing with open wounds they sizzled, doing untold amounts of damage to the clown.

The acid burned the suspenders and caused toxic gas to rise. But as Retro lay into him, his punches seemed to have no effect, JJ just laughing maniacally.

Now tuned into the situation, Pompom called on Sarv, breaking her focus, thus breaking her spell. JJ swung down, Retro narrowly dodging as the hatchet slammed into the desk. Embedded in it, Retro jumped over him and started pounding his back. Instead of continuing to pull out of the wood, JJ swung back, hitting Retro with a haymaker, wide arms smashing into the demon's chest. He flew back, collapsing into the shelving units.

"JJ!" Pompom shouted.

He turned; grin still large as he surveyed the scene. Retro unconscious, Sarv on the ground, S on the ground though clearly still lit up. As Nikusa and Nikku didn't attack him he completely ignored them sitting up top watching.

Pompom had done it. She killed them all!

"You. You understand." JJ growled slowly.

Visibly worried, Pompom stood still. "I did! They were evil. Just as you said."

JJ's grin grew wider. "You really understand. It's the adults!" He declared. It's always them! They wanna hurt you. Corrupt you! You gotta stay innocent! Stay happy!" JJ shouted.

"Stay-" What happened next happened so quickly nobody had time to process it. After a few seconds of pure chaos and violence, Nikusa found herself clutching Pompom tightly as she sobbed, wanting to go home.

Now Playing...

Artist: Melos Han-Tani

Song: Woods

Link: https://youtu.be/Lwf5xlZhAGI

S recounted the event, being the one most able to understand what happened. While distracted Retro shot acid at JJ, blinding the clown, not cluing into the plan. JJ, in pain cast those eyes which narrowed on the first thing he saw.

Pompom.

In a second Pompom saw madness. She saw everyone she knew slain, saw voids, saw the Carnival corrupted and twisted, saw that smile, saw the darkness and saw that clown standing there, amongst oblivion. She snapped, the insanity too much. But while fear permeated her the first time, this time it was anger. She screamed.

"DON'T HURT MY FAMILY!" And she let loose everything in her active mind. Every spell reeled up. Flaming vines, teaming with electricity, emanating in dark and light shot up from the ground, impaling and going through JJ as they flew upwards. The brutality of which wasn't known. It was every spell she had at her disposal fired off at once. JJ was forced through the concrete ceiling as the vines formed into a spiral poking out of the compound, high into the sky. It formed a tower, obliterating the roof of the mailroom.

JJ's eyes only looked at her for a few seconds but once they broke contact, she came too, crying and freaking out about what she saw. Nikusa acted first, jumping down and grabbing Pompom into a hug as she cried into her.

Tess was furious and while she blamed Retro for not following a plan he didn't even know about; it was the Family she blamed more. It didn't help that somehow, Amelia knew, calling shortly thereafter demanding to know what the Carnival was doing to her daughter. Instructions from Updike, Nikusa was told to hold Pompom and not let her go, effectively cuddling her as she calmed down and even apologized to her mother.

As JJ didn't get down from the vines, or found it impossible to, or was even alive up there, they considered the fight over.

As Pompom stopped crying, Nikusa let her go, sitting with her on the ground. "Is-is-is it over?" Pompom trembled.

"Hell, yeah it is!" S shouted. "I didn't know you could do that Pompom. THAT WAS AWESOME! HAHAHAWOW!" S just looked on, eyes beaming in awe at what Pompom did.

"Did I save them?"

"DAMN STRAIGHT YOU DID! GIVE ME FIVE! THAT WAS SO COOL!" S shouted, with no regard to the mental state Pompom was in. It helped bring her back to reality, S' shouting familiar to her.

She let go of Nikusa and high-fived, though still felt confused at what.

Retro, the most confused as to everything present, collapsed. "Will someone..." He huffed. "...Please tell me what is going on."

"I don't know but I'm getting really sick of the Family and its secrets. Next troll-thing to come out I'm ripping in half. I don't give a damn about 'saving' it or whatever."

Sarv too, congratulated Pompom, telling her that her actions were just. Only one person wasn't happy at the outcome.

"That's not the proper way to do it but alas, I can't care anymore. It's clear 'saving' trollge's is a lost art and you people are horrible at it. Why if I came face to face, I believe I would've been able to save him." Displo's posh voice rang in everyone's comlinks.

"Bah, get over yourself, tin man." S spat.

"...Now then. Your next move should be to evacuate. If Updike is correct, we have little time left. Rosie should be nearby soon."

"Yeah, yeah." S said. "Hey Pompom, let's start that spell. Wanna blow this place up before we leave?"

"I'd like that!"

Cauda 15 - The Data Centre's Last Stand

"This is our final update."

It was quiet in the data centre. Tess had stopped speaking with Hex and was commanding Radi and Botan. All 'patients' in the makeshift hospital (other side of the spacious room) were alive and well. Annie, Carol and Whitty had returned much earlier, 'captured' (escorted) off the premises for 'questioning' (safe passage) by IRIS soldiers. They still rested on hospital cots, Whitty and Carol hooked up to various machinery.

Both Whitty and Carol were originally brought in unconscious. Since then they had both woken up. While the blast remained destructive for Whitty, Carol had counter-acted it by casting as much healing magic as she could before the impact. Focusing more on Whitty she let herself take the brunt of the hit, hence her slow time to wake.

Fortunately, with Rosie and the fae nearby they healed Carol faster.

At first Whitty was pissed she would do that then relented upon Carol kissing him. To her the team won. Even if the gold wasn't obtained at that point she felt it worth the humiliation they inflicted on the Family.

"Did you see the look on her face when we threw her into the portal?!" Carol hollered.

Annie agreed too, the three of them recounting the battle, laughing especially hard when they heard Updike shot the resurrected Mommy.

Not all was happy however. Once Whitty woke up he and Annie got an earful from Tess and Displo, annoyed they didn't catch Pomona earlier. And when they saw JJ and Pompom they looked away, feeling the death stare Tess shot at them.

The smallest monitor had been changed to a local weather station. Rosie's request, noting that if she had to perform an escape in the rain she'd run the risk of hydroplaning. "Just wanna know how reckless I can go."

With the plan in full swing the only teams remaining in the data centre were Team Fortran and Haskell. The three COs, Solazar, Tess and Displo were anxious. The gold had been obtained, the hell gate bombed and surveillance destroyed. All that remained was to get out and cast the spell. Though on paper it looked easy, the three COs knew of 2 variables that could disrupt it.

Psychic was still out there and it was unknown if the spell would even work on him. He blindsided the crew and even after engagement nobody knew exactly how to defeat him. How he'd gone undetected all until now greatly embarrassed Solazar, Displo and Updike. He was a literal trump card the Family had.

The second was the Laughing Plan. So far nobody had a clue what it could be. With S granting the team full access to the Family's servers they searched directory through directory to find any reference to this Laughing Plan. So far nothing. Displo searched IRIS' database, Tess searched TGG's and Solazar on the Family' servers. No hits so far.

Updike believed it something to do with the stolen energy from the arch demons. He stated he wasn't sure what they were storing it for but 'improperly stored demonic energy could result in a catastrophic explosion'. With Psychic, Mommy and Retro's previous presences in the hangar, Displo deduced that was where the energy was stored.

When Kapi plainly asked if meant they had a nuke, Updike could only reply, 'possibly'. Speculation aside, Updike ordered Displo prep IRIS and TGG forces for a possible deployment. He also ordered Blackjack to go to hell and seek their council.

Solazar questioned the possibility of the Family, namely Daddy using the demonic energy to power himself up. "That is possible." He replied. "But even super powered he could still be defeated. I don't think it's that simple."

The fact that Daddy was defeated lifted most spirits. Carol woke up some time earlier, much to Whitty's happiness. Annie felt relieved, though still wished to give him a go herself. Tess too, felt a strange feeling, that her revenge had been sated.

Solazar and Displo were the only ones not particularly excited. Displo saw beyond Daddy's defeat, knowing that one, he would come back and two, if he actually was dead, then he was outside the spell range, meaning they lost.

It was unclear if Solazar came to that same conclusion, just staring at the monitor's intently. Displo couldn't read him, but saw him twitch when Tabi muttered they won.

Displo spoke first. "You showed a lot of restraint Tabi." Solazar nodded in agreement. "All of you did good. Claim your prize."

"I...will." Tabi said coldly, barely above a whisper.

Solazar could hear the pain in his voice that after all was said and done he had a hole in his heart now. This wasn't the time or place to be thinking of feelings but it really bothered Solazar, as his manager, but mostly as his guardian. Silently, he hoped that you were standing right by him, ready to move on.

Solazar watched as Updike and Huggy moved closer to your location. The sound of Carol laughing at Whitty broke his concentration and he looked to other cameras.

They had given up on the Seven Deadly Sins. They didn't even bother helping them in the fight against Psychic. They served a purpose, leading Psychic away.

Police were aware of the fight and Updike agreed to deploy TGG forces to help arrest if Psychic won. Indeed, based on their trackers Psychic did win, forcing them to surrender. There was a great benefit in them joining last. They knew little of the plan, themselves not even realizing they turned into a distraction.

Psychic came onto the comlink through a controlled Sakuroma and threatened the Carnival to stay out. Solazar replied that he would, Psychic none the wiser. He apologized and stated that they were there to extract Retro and that was it, that Kapi and his team's thoughts about a heist were merely some goal they dreamt up. He wasn't sure if Psychic believed him but he accepted the apology.

Aside from the annihilation of the street gang, the Donnas were still enroute, taking backroads to avoid Psychic's last known location. Rosie reported that she saw some kind of creature with a white head and elongated body lurking but whatever she witnessed wasn't Psychic. The plan stated Radi be present with her but preferred to stay with Botan, awaiting an attacker.

Solazar looked over at Hex's monitor next. With him on board he allowed his eyes to act as a new screen. Hex approved of it, also using it to speak with Whitty (through an annoyed Kapi's comlink).

Under order from Tess, the people on the boat departed. With Displo and Solazar completely outshining her on commanding she started to talk to Hex, trading stories with him and Kapi. With Updike and Huggy elsewhere she felt it necessary for them to leave.

Solazar sighed. It had been a long night already though it looked at least past the halfway mark. He, like the others felt a sense of tire, that things were finally now starting to wind down. No more surprises or major attacks...hopefully. Your helmet was totalled, taking down the one POV shot Solazar had. You took it, though it's display was now gone.

"Rosie. Are you almost there?" Solazar asked. He could see her relative location on the map but wanted further confirmation.

"We took some side streets but yeah." Rosie and her crew drove conspicuously. Nothing but a night on the town for them. The fae hovered in and around the car as it pursued the side streets.

She made no attempt to disguise, the roof of her pink car down, long blonde hair fluttering in the wind. The rest of the Donnas were at least disguised, driving behind her in black cars, ready to pick up the remaining teams.

Rosie didn't drive fast enough to draw police and kept the speed limit, going a cool 40-50km/h. She listened to the comlink here and there, not thinking much of the results. All she knew was the team had the gold and she needed to pick it up.

Earlier they heard gunfire atop the buildings, knowing full well Psychic was engaging with the Seven Deadly Sins. They also saw some kind of monster flying in the sky though it vanished quick.

Due to Pompom's reckless abandonment the plan had to be modified. When picked up, S would take her to a nearby high building and have her cast the spell, the antennae around the compound picking it up.

As they drove they noticed not a car on the street. Night progressed enough that most were already sleeping, unknowing of all the events currently transpiring.

Still driving casually she readied to make a turn, putting signal lights on and coming to a stop. As she pulled up to make it, a car horn ordered her not too, said driver nearly smashing into Rosie's as the car jolted into the intersection.

Rosie slammed the brakes fast. There was little chance of an accident though it did jostle the Donnas up and cause as few fairies to shriek.

"Learn to drive moron!" Rosie shouted at the car. No roof on the opposing driver's car, under the street lights Rosie recognized the driver instantly.

That girl from the cafe. No. Her older sister.

"Oh crap." Rosie muttered.

Sister waved sheepishly at Rosie as she pulled up beside them, also motioning for her passenger to keep quiet.

"I should've known you were part of this." She said.

The Donnas watched closely, waiting for Rosie to make a move. A few also recognized the girl and knew not to get involved with orders.

"So what? You surprised? I know you ain't part of whatever they're doing in here."

The other passenger shone his demonic skin more fairly. A light purple tone on his skin he dressed casually, dark baggy clothes and sunglasses, double cow lick on his black hair. While he dressed to be cool he looked rather confused at the whole situation.

Sister shook her head. "You're right. You really shouldn't go there. Whatever mom and dad got planned isn't good. It's gonna be bad. Trust me." She sounded mortified, genuinely worried for Rosie's safety.

Rosie scoffed. "We'll be fine. Just going to pick up some friends."

"I won't keep you then. Do you what gotta do. But get far. I'm serious."

"Don't worry we will." Rosie smiled. "Where you off to?"

"Got a friend in the outskirts. Gonna wait there till this blows over."

"You sure we can't stay Sis?" The passenger asked.

"No. We'll end up like Cassandra. Trust me. Mom and Dad won't try to save us."

"What are they planning anyways? Everyone keeps saying it's oh-so-bad." Rosie asked.

Sister shook her head. "Beats me but they've been planning it for a long time now. Whatever it is I don't wanna know. Just know we had no part in this."

"Heh. I think we can manage."

"Good luck Rosie. You'll need it. I'll see ya after this."

With a fist bump the two were off, big Sis and Bro heading off in the opposite direction.

In the vault, you, Tabi and the Andromeda's worked in silence. Aside from impenetrable walls the interior of the vault contained metal tables, filled with wrapped bundles of cash, gold bars or bullion. Upon some of the walls were gold records, recordings of the Family's music. You and the crew didn't pay them any mind.

One of the walls contained a number of deposit boxes. Agoti took charge of that, ripping them off the wall and inspecting contents.

Having packed several extra bags the challenge now became how you and the rest would carry them all. Aside from a full backpack and duffel bags on each hand everything was getting full.

Tabi proposed the idea of leaving some behind, himself not particularly caring about the robbery. After all, he also had to now carry his flamethrower. Aldryx refused it, stating they didn't come all this way to not take it all.

"I believe we can help with that." A commanding voice said aloud. You turned, seeing Updike and Huggy at the entrance. You don't know if Huggy had some kind of sixth sense or something but he detected the harsh mood. As creepily as he usually did Huggy scampered up to Tabi. Much as Tabi despised Huggy he did nothing but stare back at the creature, eyes hollow.

With a smile Huggy gave him a pat on the head. Good job! Tabi sighed, leading Huggy to think he wanted a hug. Huggy squealed and grabbed Tabi, lifting him up off the ground and encasing him in his furry arms. As Tabi protested, Updike walked up to you.

"Status of the gold?"

"We're getting what we can but it's too much."

"Huggy and I shall assist carrying. Where is the body?"

"Hm?"

"Daddy."

"Should be out there."

You drop the bags and push Updike out of the way. In the area where Daddy was defeated was a large bloodstain and torn fabric. Not a single sign of Daddy.

"Shit..."

"Thought so. Let us grab our things and depart. I don't like this." Updike added curtly.

Finally letting Tabi go, Huggy and the Andromeda's came beside you.

"Hmph. Should've known that snake would slither away." Tabi said.

"Should we go after him?" Aldryx asked.

"No." Displo came on the comlink. "Grab the gold and make for an escape. With the Donnas on their way we will begin extraction and prepare Pomona for the spell. Are we clear?"

"Understood." You reply.

"Best of luck you all."

With Updike and Huggy now in tow you fill as many bags as you can, making off with a sizeable fortune.

"Hey, uh just reporting that...uh GF left again?" S said puzzled, through the comlink.

"Elaborate." Updike said.

"Well maybe not her but it looks a lot like her, just bigger."

Even you knew that was her older sister, S must have already forgotten about her.

"And some boy."

"It's her older sister. The boy is probably that brother." You said.

"Should we do something?"

"Nah, leave 'em. Sister's a respectable customer. She can go free." Rosie cut in, signal crackling as she drove.

As the least burdened Updike led the way, Huggy at the back carrying several bags.

"Huh. Maybe GF told her?" Agoti said.

Tabi stopped abruptly, Aldryx bumping into him.

He turned back slowly, just as Agoti realized what he said. "Told her what? How would she know?"

"..Rr nothing? Hehe?" Agoti said with a smile.

Tabi dropped his bags, eyes flaring up. He looked as if he were about to strangle the digidevil. No accusations had even been laid but Tabi already figured it out.

So fast he did, that Solazar spoke into the comlink next, giving Tabi his answer.

"Agoti and Aldryx spoke with Boyfriend and Girlfriend earlier. We decided not to tell you or (Y/N)."

"WHY? That curva told her the whole operation didn't he!? That's why they left! ISN'T IT?"

"Of course." Solazar said. "But we couldn't have you go off on a killing spree could we."

"W-well, Girlfriend said she was sorr-ah!" Aldryx, knowing Tabi a little too well as well, swung one of the bags right into Agoti, knocking him over before Tabi could do something more severe.

"Yes, yes. There has been betrayal all around but we can settle this later." Updike butt in. "If I am correct we have little time."

"The hell was that for bro?"

Tabi said nothing, instead turning back and picking up his bags. "We will settle this later." He said coldly and resumed his pace.

"Yo Team Lisp!" S said into the comlink.

"Aren't you guys Team Lisp? They're Team Haskell." Pompom spoke up.

"Uh-uh. Only Updog and Huggy are. The rest are Team P-"

"What is it?" You ask.

"This is our final update." Nikku started, voice still on Mommy. It made Agoti flinch. "Er. Sorry." Nikku said, changing her voice back to Tess'. "We're going to leave now. I don't know what's going on but all the demons are going to the hangar and garage. Place is deserted."

"Understood. Team Lisp and Pompom get out of there. Take Sarv and Retro. Get ready to cast the spell." Solazar ordered.

"Get to the western parking lot. Where Annie's team started. Rosie will pick you all up there." Tess added.

Updike took his stealth a less seriously this time, no longer checking each corner for demons.

"What about Psychic?"

"Don't worry about him. The weapon I called should be making contact with him any minute. He will be dealt with swiftly." Updike added.

With nobody patrolling everyone moved quickly taking no time to peak between hallways. "We shall be meeting up with S' team in the western parking lot where Rosie and Radi shall pick us up."

"So what's this 'funny' plan then?" You asked.

"I cannot say for sure." Updike started as he carried the 5 bags in one arm and more on the other. "If I am correct then the Family has kidnapped 3 archdemons and extracted their powers. I believe they intend to use that energy to summon something."

"Ooo, real scary." Agoti said. "What are they, gonna summon Satan?"

"No. Though I believe Blackjack should be getting in contact with her shortly. It's not just that. They also had Trollge's here. You may not have run into any but Team Lisp has. I believe their appearance her ties into the plan. It was reported that Smiler had a collar. They had to be using him for something else. I believe they were collecting energy from those TCF remnants as well. Storing that energy to build a weapon or some sort."

"Like the tsar bomb?" Tabi said, not seriously.

"Sort of. Something of that magnitude."

You stopped, finding it rather odd. "Seriously? What, they're gonna nuke the city? And today?"

"You may not have heard but during my confrontation with Psychic he believed we were there to stop whatever they were planning."

"It's quite serious as Updike says." Displo said through the link.

"Retro vanished 2 months ago. We can assume the Family captured him then and begun extracting energy. Sarvente was 2 weeks ago and Blackjack in the past few week. And it was Family's demons that attacked that Hololive girl. I believe that TCF was their doing as well and BF and GF had some part of it. The Family have been planning this for a long time but appear to have sped up recently."

"I knew they were no good." Tabi added.

Manoeuvring throughout the empty manor grew haunting. With not a soul in sight and nothing but dead silence as you and the others walked you couldn't help but feel worried.

"Sorry to dampen your assessment Tabi but I don't think BF and GF knew what they were doing if they even brought down TCF. I think Daddy just took advantage of the fallout."

"Okay, so what? We get out of here, and flee the city?"

"Not necessarily." Tess said. "We've been discussing it. If Pompom's spell works out we'll get IRIS and TGG to send people to investigate and disable the weapon."

"Yes. Just for now proceed to your----BZZTssssssssssssshhhhhhhhhh." The signal cut out, Displo's voice crackling.

"Displo? Tess? Sol?" You paused as you checked. Tabi shook his head. "It's probably just Psychic. Let's go."

"No. I can't imagine it's him. He should have his hands full right now."

Now Playing...

Artist: Store

Song: Blip (Sankt-Otten Mix)

Link: https://youtu.be/2Iozx5MwRi8

Psychic watched from above as the remaining Deadly Sins were carted off in police cruisers. Mind controlling them he forcibly got each to surrender, relinquishing his control once it too late for them to resist. He surveyed the surrounding buildings, bullet holes and smashed concrete everywhere. They didn't go down as easily as he was hoping.

He already spoke with the commanders of the Carnival. They got Retro and were ready to leave. They weren't going to interfere in tonight's plan any further. He still didn't trust they weren't planning on robbing the joint but knew it wouldn't matter soon anyway. For now it was on him to get to the hangar.

Standing atop a building he looked towards the compound, a purple and grey sky above, light pollution and clouds blocking out the horizon.

He listened around, hearing different thoughts. Need to make sure no more 'Carnival' is around. He didn't detect anyone with knowledge of the Carnival but did detect someone watching him. Is that him? Someone thought. I think it's him.

Psychic turned back seeing two figures, one building behind him. One he saw many thoughts coming out, the other blank. They were looking at him with intent. Mindful silence from the first and constant thoughts about how to approach Psychic from the other. He could see it in the loud figure's mind. Updike sent us. Said to do as much damage to the purple guy as possible. Use as much force as you want. Kill anyone. He kidnapped Sarv!

Psychic shook his head. "He sent more." He readied himself.

The loud figure hovered beside the first one, small black wings keeping him afloat. The other just stood solemnly, Psychic still not hearing a single thought from him. Perhaps he wasn't sentient.

Seeing Psychic raise his fists the two took it upon themselves to hop to the next building, closing the gap between them.

"So you're the one who took mom." The kid said. A stick-figure, wearing a maroon coloured student uniform.

While he didn't introduce himself, Psychic scanned his mind and got a name. Selever. Next to him the man who apparently did not think. Selever called him Ruv and Dad.

"We used inmates to capture her. I just controlled her. If I didn't she would have been much worse off."

Ruv clenched his fists.

"You realize Updike sent you here to die?" Psychic said. "You cannot beat me."

"We'll see." Ruv said as he charged him.

Rosie felt the car shake, as if a gust of wind blew by her. Figuring it was the weather she drove on. She paid it no mind, figuring it just a gust from the previous storm. She glanced up instinctively only to see someone fly...rather thrown by. A brief moment passes as Rosie realized who the passer-by was.

Glowing neon green he stuck out across the dark sky. Radi. "Fae! Get him!" She commanded. Fluttering madly they flew off.

She pulled to a stop, the Donnas stopping behind her. With Radi already in his descent he was caught by the fae, a force field covering him as he slammed into a building. Bouncing off, the fae lowered him to the ground, several fluttering around to heal him. He saw himself glowing, the fairies wasting no time in teleporting him to Rosie.

As Rosie continued driving she tried paging the data centre, finding the link not working. Unsure what to think she sped up, just as Radi materialized in the passenger seat.

"What the hell happened?" Rosie asked, not so much as even glancing at Radi. Crossing his arms, Radi huffed. "Some stupid creature is at the data centre. Threw me after I knocked the snot outta him. I think it's almost dead anyways. Don't worry 'bout them. Let's just get the gold."

Rosie shrugged. With all of Team Fortran and Team Haskell at the data centre she figured they would be fine. As she got closer to the compound she noticed something off.

She wasn't sure if it were her imagination or the air itself but it felt thicker here. The fog had dissipated and left nothing but a black landscape, nothing but streetlamps breaking the darkness. Though her brights were on it felt as if she couldn't see more than a few metres in front of her. Something just felt...off.

Stepping out of the mansion you felt it too. Nothing but a muted silence outside as if you stepped onto a wasteland. You couldn't even hear the sound of the waves nearby.

Even the hellhounds had gone quiet. "Eerie." Agoti mumbled.

With how everyone moved you assumed it just a side effect of the tiredness. It had been a rough night.

"We should depart immediately. This isn't good." Updike said.

Hoping over the fence you spot S and co waiting in the parking lot looking confused as well. Oddly enough, Nikusa was hugging Pompom tightly. Before you could ask what happened, S flew up to you.

"Woo! So that's the cash?" S shouted as he flew over to grab a bag from you.

He ripped it open, studying its contents closely. "They shoulda used rings but this is coo."

"What's going on?" Nikku asked Updike. "Everything feels off."

"I do not know. It could be a side effect of the Laughing Plan. Regardless everyone be on alert."

Now Playing...

Artist: The Night Monitor

Song: Action and Adventure

Link: https://youtu.be/v6VnknCKkxc

"There's a dark energy in the air. We should get as far away from here as possible." Nikusa said as she let go of Pompom.

You put your comlink on. "Rosie how far are you?"

"Like 1 minute. I can literally see you guy-"

Rosie was cut off by something far in the distance. Ruv, Selever and Psychic saw it too, atop their battlefield. Though it happened behind Rosie she certainly felt the shockwave.

You couldn't see it exactly but many blocks down an explosion rocked a building. It completely dispelled the surrounding darkness as the sky lit up from afar. A bright blue explosion. There was no doubt in your mind.

That was the data centre.

-- Earlier --

Atop the data centre Radi and Botan exchanged stories. She talked his ear off about her own crew as Radi talked about his homeworld. It helped pass time. They too noticed the heavy feeling in the air, though none commented on it.

Tess, still feeling overshadowed reviewed past conversations, finally determining that the flying creature that kept getting mentioned was making its way south, towards the data centre. Upon giving the warning, Botan and Radi readied themselves. And it wasn't flying, rather jumping from building to building or lurking on the ground.

It looked to purposely avoid cameras, Tess could see them getting distorted briefly. "5 seconds you two! Good luck!" Tess declared from the comlink.

Radi and Botan scanned the surrounding area, expecting something to appear at any second. Both were focused, not the least bit affected by paranoia.

And sure enough did someone make their presence as Radi and Botan saw someone climb up the roof. Both Carnival members aimed, ready. As someone pulled themselves up Radi lowered his fists.

A young girl, same species as Radi. Her clothing, appearance and statue contained no colour, shades of black and grey covering her. By the schoolgirl attire, knee-high socks and cute bow atop her head, Radi identified her immediately.

"Radi! It's so good to see you." She said with an abnormally large smile.

"L-Lofie?" Radi asked cautiously. "What did they do to you?" He wasn't convinced this was Lofie. It just all seemed way too off. Where was the 'large flying creature'? And if anything happened to Lofie, Sumire would've told him.

"Oh I've just been doing so well! Laughing at how your operation has been going."

Before Radi could respond, a bullet fired beside him, sniper shot hitting Lofie's forehead. She froze.

"Not buying it." Botan said. "That ain't whoever you think."

"Hmph." Lofie said. "Fooling you all works better when you two actually know each other." A scratchy voice emerged from Lofie.

"Go warn the others. This one is mine." Radi said coldly.

Botan nodded, re-entering the data centre.

Radi's fists lit up green, glowing. "I don't know what you are but nobody impersonates my sis."

"Alright then." The fake Lofie said. "Let's see what you got edgelord."

The doors departed again, someone entering. While the COs ignored the sound Whitty took notice.

"...the hell?" He muttered as he sat up, Carol glancing up from her phone as well.

It was that lion girl...from the arcade? She dressed almost the same as that night too. He didn't mistake it.

Long vanilla-coloured hair with lion's ears poking out, black winter jacket with fur around the neck, black tank top with vanilla strips and stylish black boots. The only difference were the black track pants she currently wore, the three strips along the leg indicating Adidas. She carried with her a sniper rifle slung upon her back.

He couldn't remember her name. Boston? Botulism? Botanic? But he knew she was the leader of that team whose name he also forgot.

"Yo." Whitty said as he got off the hospital bed. Carol too was similarly confused at her appearance.

"Oh hey. Sorry, kinda busy." Botan stopped, seeing her former competitors. "TGG treat you alright?" She asked as she walked by, guessing his alignment with them.

"We aren't part of The Greater Good." Whitty said flatly.

Botan shrugged. "Whatever."

"What are you doing here?"

"Updike asked me to help security 'case anything happened. Me and some friends have been watching the place."

"But, why?" Whitty had more questions now, not even sure where to begin.

"Sorry, don't have time to explain."

"Yes, yes." Solazar spoke up, finally noting Botan's presence. "Why are you in here? Is there something the matter?"

"Yeah. We got a problem upstairs! Some creature thing is attacking the base. Radi's fighting it upstair-"

"Radi's gone! Something just threw him!" Tess exclaimed looking at the monitors before they all went static.

"There's something seriously wrong outside too. It's like the world is different."

"We've lost signal!" Tess said aloud.

"What is-" The ground shook. Not enough to destabilize anything but everyone felt it.

"Not detecting any seismic activity." Displo said as he started typing on the console. "Checking surrounding-..."

"M-my god." Displo muttered, stepping back from the console.

"Displo, you okay?" Tess asked, noticing him shaking slightly now. She rolled over to Displo's console. She saw the same screen as he but didn't know the significance of the dark figure standing there.

It towered upwards and started directly at the camera, vibrating ever so. Long limbs and larger hands with gangly fingers that appeared sharp. All black except the creature's head, a ghastly white. It had a large toothy smile that pushed it's chin and cheeks to extreme proportions stretching them inhumanely. With its eyes devoid of life it stared directly at the camera, directly to the viewer. Hard to see under the camera's light Displo saw it perfectly.

"Case 333. Legion." Displo said, deadpan.

Cauda 16 - We Are Many

"I haven't had a good trolling in a while."

Now Playing...

Artist: Litüus

Song: Coembody

Link: https://youtu.be/bYmtaJY6jxk

"That's right IRIS Agent. Where is he? Where is Agent Blueballs? I know there is one in this world."

Displo gulped. This was way out of his league.

The monster's eyes each contained a tiny pupil, barely caught by the camera's lens. Soulless and psychopathic it starred, head vibrating.

Aside from the monster standing in the camera Displo could see all signals vanishing, fading as all connections were gradually lost. Tess too, could see it in her mind.

"Displo what's going on?"

Displo took a step back. Alone now, he needed to think of a plan.

"Blueballs isn't with you is he? That's good. I warm up with you all first." The being said into the camera. Tess could hear it now, terror starting to creep up.

"Why-how did you-"

"Well your own 'friend', TV-head gave your signal. Psychic ordered it and your own girl put the command in."

333. Nikku. Damnit! Displo thought. I should have realized sooner.

With several of the cameras offline the camera showing Legion replicated, all screens now showing his face.

The others congregated around the screens, a mix of fear and confusion as to what was starring at them. Solazar didn't react, instead messing with the console in an attempt to re-establish connection.

"Carol. Call BF. Tell him 333." Displo said. He recalled what he knew about Case 333. Not of this planet. Fought Agent Blueballs, aka Boyfriend at one point. Reads minds. Undefeated. Possibly the first trollge.

"Uh, I got no signal."

"Crap."

"How about I give you one minute before I get in there?" Legion on the camera didn't move, Whitty realizing it was a still image. The building shook. "60 seconds." The monster said aloud.

"I am coming." The cameras all shut off as the lights flickered. He was destroying the wiring.

Displo took a deep breath, clearing his cache. "Botan. Build a perimeter. Annie help her." He began unbuttoning his sleeve, reading the LOIC. "Solazar. Tess. Start reconfiguring the system. We have backup methods. We need to reach either BF or the rest of the team."

"We'll take it down." Whitty said, raising a fist. Carol nodded. "Pft. We got this."

"Do what you can. But be careful." Displo concluded. He didn't have time to determine if Whitty and Carol could take him. The two ran out.

"Displo how difficult will this fight be?" Solazar asked plainly.

"So long as we maintain a strategy...I cannot determine percentages."

"What about statistics of us 'saving' it?"

"Unlikely. I have one way that might work though I'm not sure. If I remember correctly Legion wasn't even defeated in the Fall of TCF. He just sort of vanished. I don't know what Blueballs-er-Boyfriend did."

"I see."

Flipping tables, moving the hospital beds and desks, Botan and Annie began to build a perimeter. Botan understood it as cover for a shootout while Annie determined it a barricade to protect the COs.

"What's going on?" Annie finally asked.

"We are dealing with a trollge, possibly the strongest out there, p-potentially-just get ready for a fight. Case 333, codenamed Legion."

"WiMAX activated." Tess said. "Re-establishing connection on a fallback meshnet." Solazar added as they typed away on the consoles. "Looks like the backup generators are coming online."

Displo's logs were open, Tess being able to see some of his thoughts. As Displo wasn't describing it, the restaurateur trying not to buckle under stress she repeated it.

"That sucks." Botan said. "I'll try to keep a clear mind." She paged Whitty and Carol, informing them of said characteristic.

The hallways retained the same clinical appearance, white walls, blue-tinted floors that reflected if cleaned and no furniture along the walls sans the occasional houseplant.

While normally bustling with people it remained barren, not a soul in sight. Carol and Whitty looked down each hallway, realizing they forgotten the way out. It didn't matter as, with a flicker of the lights, the two knew Legion arrived.

As the hallway flashed black, the two saw him standing there at the end, still grinning.

Standing tall he easily reached the ceiling, his head crooked so as to not hit it. His face was the only distinguished thing on him.

A greyish-white skin over what might have once been a regular head. His smile grew impossibly large, showing off a full set of teeth down to the gums, which dyed black. His eyes, no longer human were white with heavy black rings around them. One contained a tiny iris while the other was burst, a black circle sitting in its eye's centre instead.

Not much of a body to speak of. Vaguely humanoid, its body was an inky black figure that appeared more as a silhouette against the white walls. It's 'legs' were just two long black sticks they grew narrower as they reached the floor. Its arms, long and almost reached the floor too. They contained two long, thin hands, long fingers appearing more as spider-legs than digits.

The being Displo referred to as Legion, or Case 333 in the TCF files.

While its uncanny appearance may have frightened most, Carol and Whitty weren't the least bit scared. They had nothing to fear, knowing as long as they were with each other they could not lose. Side-by-side they both readied their fists. Whitty's lit up, fire around them as Carol's did holy magic.

"Oh? The first insects are going to step up? Very well. A girl and a bomb-headed freak. I remember you from the other world. when I got there you were already gone hahaaha!" With a hunch Legion sauntered towards them, expecting the first move.

The two acted in unison, charging Legion. However, thanks to weeks of planning they knew when to stop the act, even without thinking. As they reached Legion he fully expected them to both jump up, allowing for him to catch them. But, as they reached Carol stayed down and Whitty jumped up.

"Now!"

Eyes focusing on Carol he failed to see Whitty from above, interlock his hands and smash his flaming fist into Legion's head. Stunned, Carol hit with an uppercut, glowing white fist right into where Legion's stomach should be.

He recoiled back, in actual surprise. He shook himself off, ash dusting off his head.

"Cute. But does little." It dashed forward, closing the space between it and Whitty in mere milliseconds. With a slash upward its claws cut through the fabric of his hoodie vertically. In the same motion he swiped with his other hand, knocking Carol to the wall. Despite his fragile appearance Legion was very mobile, continuing his assault as he grabbed Whitty's head and slammed him into the ground repeatedly.

Carol got up. Though the wind was knocked out of her, she acted quickly, casting her magic on Whitty. He lit up in a glow of electricity and though Whitty felt no pain from it, Legion did, the volts coursing through him. He let go, shaking violently from the surge.

It caused him to step back.

"Magic. What a stupid world-" Carol wasn't going to let Legion regain any ground, immediately firing another shot of electricity. Kicking himself back up, Whitty nodded to Carol who casted another spell on him, giving some strength.

Whitty jumped upon Legion, slamming his fists into the monster's core. Slamming into it he found it harder than it looked, feeling more like he was smashing the ground.

"ENOUGH." A pulse of energy emitted from Legion, launching both back. The volts dissipated.

On the ground again, Whitty nary had a second to get up before Legion was on him, grabbing him by the head and holding him. His abnormally long fingers enclosed around Whitty's head, pushing the wick out of the way.

"Let's see how you fare with a little trolling."

As Whitty struggled in his grasp, his vision went black, some kind of black mist obscuring his view. It clouded around his head, but while it felt prickly and suffocating it did not hurt.

If Whitty could have seen, he would have saw Legion's expression perplexed. "Don't you have a brain?"

He dropped Whitty. "Then you should." Reaching for Carol he grabbed her by the head, fingers reaching through her hair.

Legion's grin returned as the same black cloud covered Carol. Though while it may not have worked on Whitty it worked on Carol. For a brief second she lost vision and feeling. See saw a face of madness and felt sanity slipping. For a brief second anyways, an unconscious spell, a purifying one Carol always kept handy activated, cutting off the evil visions. It turned the mist white, evaporating. Her senses returned.

"This is why I hate magic. So many deus ex bullshit." He mused.

Before he could crush Carol's skull, Whitty jumped up and grabbed the thin arm, slamming his elbow into it. Hitting the exact joint, Legion let go, dropping Carol. Still moving fast, Whitty grabbed her and made space between them and the monster.

"You alright?" He asked.

"Fine babe." Carol wiped her face, a light glow cleaning the ink off.

"I'll just have to tear your piece by piece instead." Legion threatened, his smile returning. "I don't need fancy tricks to troll."

"Can you do it any faster?" Botan asked. For the past few minutes she'd been watching Solazar and Tess fix the system. Solazar was inside one of the computers, the panel discarded on the ground nearby. Sleeves rolled-up he was messing with wires.

"Considering I am not an electrical engineer, no I cannot."

Between glancing at the COs and looking at the door for Legion she was getting restless. Annie too, just stood behind the barricade of tables and desks, waiting for the 'trollge'.

Displo hadn't moved from his spot, instead invisibly porting into the machines to restore access. He kept an eye on the remaining cameras, trying to see how Whitty and Carol were faring.

"Carol and Whitty aren't winning. They're holding back." Displo said.

"Huh, why would that do that?" Botan asked.

"Because they are already weakened. They are trying not to push themselves too hard. If Whitty really wanted too he could blow up this whole building. He's clearly trying to avoid that." Displo shook his head. "They aren't going to win. Botan. Annie. Get ready." Tess said.

They nodded and took post. Annie stood in front of the table fists ready while Botan laid her sniper rifle on top of a desk, aimed directly at the door.

Displo raised an arm up, ready for a shot. Solazar, seeing this got an idea. Getting up he went to Displo. "You have a solar core, correct?"

"Yes, why?"

"Allow me." Solazar held a hand out, as Displo understood. "You sure this won't kill you?" Solazar asked.

"It will be very hot but I believe I can handle it."

Solazar took Displo's arm and popped open a panel under it. While Displo kept his arm raised and aimed, Solazar put his hand just under the arm, adding to the charge. "Are you sure he cannot be killed be conventional means?"

"I don't think so."

"Then let us test that." Solazar said.

"Get ready on my cu-"

A battered Whitty and Carol were thrown into the room, hitting the barricade, Annie quickly pulling them behind it. From behind them came Legion, ducking in past the doorway. With the ceiling taller in here, he had no issue standing upright. His presence caused lights to flicker around him, making him appear invisible when the light vanished.

Up close, the first thing Displo saw came out. "N-no collar?"

"Nope." Legion started. His voice was hoarse but still retained the same psychopathic streak as the other trollges. "You see that Family? They've been very courteous to me. All they needed was some energy in exchange. Been doing lots of trolling since Blueballs ruined my foundation."

Legion stepped forward.

"Annie get them out of the way." Tess whispered into the comlink. She understood and leaping over the barricade, grabbed the bomb-guy and angel, bringing them back over.

Legion did not react, allowing Annie to rescue her teammates.

"Arthur. Don't do this." Displo said.

"Don't say that name. That child is gone."

"If you want another go at Blueballs he isn't here."

"Nononono that's fine. I haven't had a good trolling in a while. And those two losers were nothing. You 4 however, look far more enticing. Catgirl number 448821, a teenage robot ripoff, yet-another TV-head, gosh get some originality. And a firecracker in a bowtie."

Legion laughed. "You know that purple guy could never read me? I was able to troll him plenty. Let's see if the rest of you can."

Now Playing...

Artist: The Bread Scientists

Song: Exosphere

Link: https://youtu.be/hrCzweOAZvA

Legion crept closer. Displo knew how fast those creatures could move and decided it had stepped close enough. Nudging Solazar, they let the LOIC go, a cylinder of white light completely enveloping the half of the room.

Boosted by Solazar's cosmic energy, the light grew brighter than any had seen, the cylinder exploding, blinding everyone in the vicinity. Even Displo had to look away for fear of frying his lenses. Hot too, for the brief seconds it fired boosted the room's temperature to a hot 40 degrees celsius.

The data centre shook, no doubt the explosion visible from several blocks over. Loud too, everyone could hear the beam melting anything in its path. Displo stopped the LOIC, fearing he would melt his hand right off. Not worried about his energy levels, Solazar's power instantly recharged his core.

And as it subsided, the room grew darker, the beam having wiped out half the data centre, leaving nothing but scrap metal, dirt and exposed wires.

Displo pushed Solazar out of the way, now feeling the effects on himself. His hand glowed a bright pink, Solazar's boost sending it's temperature into the hundreds. It wasn't melting but Displo could feel it was way too hot.

The lights flickered again, several of the backup generators failing from the blast.

"We can't reach the others." Tess shouted. Solazar nodded and went to her, the blast giving him an idea.

From up the ash a figure rose. It didn't twitch as fast, nor did it look as gangly as before. Legion. And he'd sustained a lot of damage.

"That...hurt." Legion said slowly. It cracked its shoulder, twitching all along its body.

He lunged for Displo, slow enough for the others to react. Annie went first, blocking Legion's palm with her arm. With a right hook she landed into Legion's midsection, causing the monster to stumble back. His fingers wrapped around Annie's arm as he squeezed hard and lifted her up. "What about you?"

Just then, Annie felt something prick her arm, as if something itself was working into her bloodstream. The pain was immeasurable, though lasted nearly a second. She heard a gunshot, a loud bang from next to her, then Legion shouting.

A bullet fired out of Botan's rifle, hitting Legion square in the right eye. "AAAAH! Y-You!" He reeled his arm back and threw Annie backwards, landing somewhere in the blast radius, her arm now a dark black.

".308, hollow-point ammunition." Botan said calmly as she loaded another on the in the chamber.

Legion rubbed his eye as he blinked. A black liquid started to ooze out of it but the eye remained intact.

"You excuse for an anthro...mangy cat!"

Botan didn't react, instead stepping back and starring down the scope.

"Nothing to say? Shouldn't be surprised."

Botan fired off another bullet though Legion ducked. His mass of black form changed as he morphed into a little girl. His face remained the same though took the silhouette of a girl wearing a shark outfit.

"Gawr." Botan muttered.

"How about I get this Gar then? I'll find her. Make her scream! Cut her up!"

"..." Botan remained focused as she loaded another in the chamber. As if warping, the shark-legion lunged at Botan, immediately going for her midsection, claws out.

"We don't have time for this. Tess. Could you perhaps power the system yourself?" Solazar asked.

"What? I don't have that kind of charge!"

"You won't be doing that." Legion shouted from behind.

Another gunshot echoed in the room, Botan hitting the morphed Legion square in the chest. The bullet impacted, though did nothing to change his demeanour or assault. It slashed Botan's legs, 3 gashes going across each.

"You're gonna die over and over again." Legion calmly said in his screechy voice. He swiped again at Botan, Displo intervening to help her. He took the brunt, claw slashes hitting his chest. Metallic, the swipe did not do much.

"I've got it!" Tess declared. "Sol! Give me your arm!"

Another force of energy emitted from Legion, knocking Botan and Displo back. In the bounce back he grabbed a desk and threw it at them, hoping to keep them grounded, at least for a few seconds.

"You know what? How about I finish with your other friend? Fatty."

Legion took on another appearance. The silhouette of a man wearing a trench coat and smoking a cigarette emerged. He walked to Annie who was just getting up. Her arm had turned in colour to black, as if the skin were dyed by ink.

"Y-you!"

"Mad?"

"Very."

"He's never coming back you know."

"I'LL KILL YOU!" Annie screamed. Though, while Legion expected her to charge him she didn't instead, grabbing what he thought a can of soda and chugged it.

It changed her instantly, skin turning a blue hue, enlarging her muscles and giving her a crazed look. Blue liquid dripped from her sharp teeth as she became animalistic. She charged Legion, a tank boiling in pure hatred.

Displo helped Botan up as Legion wrestled with Annie. He had slashed her with his claws, his 'inky' energy again getting into her bloodstream. Whitty and Carol were back up and running to go help Annie.

"Can we even kill him?" Botan asked as she adjusted her rifle. She wobbled slightly, ignoring the pain and black inkage seeping into it.

"Trollge's cannot die conventionally."

"I disagree." Solazar said. He currently has his hands full of wires that were disconnected from Tess. Tess just had a blank look on her face, internally trying to handle all the electricity surging. Her other hand held onto the wires, slowly powering them back up. "Pompom proved earlier they can be killed."

"I will try to tame him. Just stay calm Botan." Displo said as she nodded.

Elsewhere, Annie was on top, punching Legion repeatedly, the trollge still smiling ever the same. His hand was embedded in Annie's arm slowly turning it black as it drew blood. It spread slowly, the mixture of Legion's power conflicting with the liquid.

Whitty and Carol resumed their assault, Carol using her own magic to heal Annie and Whitty holding Legion's arm back, trying to burn it.

"I remember you Arthur." Displo shouted.

In that instant that other arm came to life, not just slashing at Whitty but stabbing through him directly, impaling through his hoodie. Whitty froze, letting go and stumbling back as Legion let go. Carol seeing it, stopped helping Annie and screamed, running to Whitty.

Legion let go of Annie and threw her upwards, a thud indicating she landed on a roof nearby. Twitching faster now, he got up and practically warped to Displo, returning to his original form.

"You liar. Don't lie to me agent." Legion moved in closer.

"Arthur."

"You aren't Blueballs. Don't even pretend to be him."

Botan stood by Displo, rifle aimed down she kept her finger on the trigger.

"There was a child once named Arthur." Displo began. "He wished to make people happy."

"Continue."

"And he did. He made me happy."

"..."

"He made me-"

In the instant, Whitty was already back upon Legion grabbed his back and hugging him tightly. Carol was right on top of him, using her magic to heal him.

"I'll show you a laugh!" Whitty screamed. Legion got up and tried to reach around, grabbing Whitty's hoodie. They stumbled about as Whitty's wick lit up, triangles appearing in his eyes.

"NO YOU FOOL!" Displo shouted. Just as Legion turned around a surge of lightning hit Whitty. It coursed through him, lighting him and Carol up. Whitty and Carol didn't move, just falling onto the ground, unconscious.

"YOU MORONS!" Solazar screamed, his hands aimed at the two. "WE ARE NOT TRYING TO DESTROY THIS PLACE FURTHER."

The lights from the computers went out, Solazar breaking his current.

Now Playing...

Artist: Kurogokegumo

Song: Dark Delight

Link: https://youtu.be/eXm323y1U_Q

"I am sorry Displo but this is not working. Help Tess. I shall deal with this creature." Solazar cracked his knuckles. "Botan. Get the others and get them to safety. Find Annie as well."

She did so, making a mental note to bandage her shins. Blood flowed out of them, Botan doing best to ignore the pain.

They all acted as Solazar walked up to Legion.

"I shall handle this."

"Oh. You're not blueballs but you are blue. What can you do?"

He grabbed Solazar, wrapping his fingers around him as he lifted the solarisapien up. Solazar didn't react, just shaking his head. A bright light emitted from him as for the first time Legion felt true heat. It singed his hands, causing him to drop the Andromeda's father.

"Enough." Solazar commanded.

"U mad?"

"Very. You've wasted far too much of my time."

"I don't care."

"I will prove that you beings of trollge can be killed."

Solazar raised his fists. "I am older than you can possibly imagine. You aren't new under this sun."

"You have no idea what I am capable of. What I did on that last world. There was no Earth after I was done with it."

"I do not care what you have done in the past. You are an amateur. I've seen worlds crumble, seen empires fall. I traversed the stars and saw the real end."

"What're you, gonna kill me with bad storytelling and metaphors?"

Solazar punched forth hitting Legion's legs with a combo of left and right hooks. Legion didn't react, not even finding the jabs hot or anything.

More surprised than anything, Legion just stood there and took it. Solazar finished with a jab and jumped up, round housing Legion in the face. He landed back down, Solazar smirking.

"T-that was it?"

"Partially."

With both hands again he grabbed Solazar and slammed him into the ground. "THIS IS YOUR BEST?" He grew closer to Solazar starring right at him.

"Are you not damaged?"

"D-damaged? YOU'VE DONE NOTHING. NOTHING COMPARED TO THAT BOMB OR-" Legion leaned even closer, now centimetres between his and Solazar's glasses. "-FATTY OR THAT ANGEL. YOU. ARE. NOTHING."

"Are you angry?" Sol asked.

With Legion so close to his body, Solazar let off energy. The temperature rose instantly into the thousands, burning the very ground they lay on. It blinded Legion, both burning his face and overwhelming his vision. Black smoke could be seen emitting from them.

Displo and Tess, though busy looking at the console saw everything light up too, as if the sun itself were sitting right there.

Legion let go and reeled back, screaming in agony. The light subsided and Solazar got up, adjusting his tie. He took a deep breath.

"You two. I will only be a few minutes. Continue help and make way to Rosie's team. I believe it optimal if we all flee now."

"Understood." Displo said.

Solazar rose off the ground and grabbed Legion's neck. With a glimmer in Solazar's eyes he flew upwards, taking Legion with him. From atop the data centre Botan saw a blurry Solazar volt upwards continuing into the sky and past the clouds, disappearing as a star above, somewhere into space.

Botan had found Annie already. She landed on a nearby building. After rustling Carol up with some water she used her magic to bring Annie. Something was seriously wrong with her, the black ink spreading. She coughed, sounding in pain but the smile forming indicated otherwise. Botan too felt woozy, and though he legs bandaged, felt sick.

With Legion gone the four of them made back to what was left of the computer room, Whitty still unconscious.

"Did we win-" Annie weakly said before throwing up black ink.

"Teams are you audible!?" Displo shouted into the microphone.

With a lot of static they heard Rosie. "We can hear you. W-was that Solazar just now?"

"Doesn't matter. Where are your positions?"

"Engaged in a shootout with the demons. Got no time to deal with it. We're heading towards the data centre now."

Displo concluded the link. After fighting with Legion something within him clicked. He shook and darted to the computer, some of Solazar's energy powering it's backup generator. He started looking things up, typing as faster than usual. Done being used as a switch, Tess came back to life.

"Displo? What are you doing?"

"Nonononono. Itcantbetheywouldnt..." He trailed off, lost in thought.

Tess watched in anxiety as Displo stepped back and shook slightly. She could tell his servos twitched in fear.

Usually she could see his mind, though this time it was all clouded. Tess could hear hum from Displo. He was intensely thinking as he typed away. "D-Displo are you okay? You're scaring me."

"QUIET!"

Displo continued typing away, looking into IRIS and TGG's inventories. Items taken, recently deposed, received, sunsetted and incoming. Nothing that rung a bell. No the Family had spies. They had to have been more covert. Certainly know that TCF didn't have objects of that could handle that energy level. Tess watched, her concern growing.

He seemed to have found something, as something popped up on screen, making Displo tremble. He took a step back, nearly tripping.

"Displo! Hello?!" Tess asked again.

"I-I am here." Displo stammered. "Grab everyone and get in a vehicle. We need to meet the others as soon as possible." Displo logged off and ran to the adjacent parking lot.

"I-if I am correct in my assessment, then we have little time. I've figured out what the Laughing Plan is. And If I am correct, then we're all dead."

Cauda 17 - Fool's Gold

"It feels good to be alive."

With Rosie and her crew pulling into the lot it was now time for everyone to split into vehicles. While the plan originally called for two cars, the addition of several new players changed that. So, after a brief discussion, the remnants of your team, Nikku's team and the prisoners split up.

While Rosie was expected to bring vans she decided against it, bringing convertibles, several cars with no roofs. It butchered any chance of staying hidden though she didn't really seem to care. After all, Pompom's spell and S' hacks would negate any chance of being identified.

The first car, pulling out in front was driven by Rosie with you as the passenger. Updike, Huggy and Tabi sat in the back, Huggy extremely excited about being able to ride with no roof.

The second car, pulling into the middle was driven by Radi with Agoti as the passenger. Nikusa, Pompom and Aldryx sat in the back, Pompom in the middle of them, Nikusa watching over her.

The final car, pulling out last consisted of S driving with Nikku as the passenger. RetroSpector and Sarvente sat in the back, both eager to get as far from the compound as possible.

The Belladonnas who'd come to support Rosie left in their own vehicles, taking the fae with them. With the Family effectively out of commission they decided to stage an attack on their Forest and reclaim it in the chaos. You weren't sure about how much opposition they would face but best case draw police ire and provide distraction.

As you watched them drive off it hit you. Why couldn't we have just used another magic user to teleport everyone away? Maybe not Pompom but recruit an additional person. You shrug the shame away focusing more on the mission at hand.

With the cars divvied up so was the loot. Several bags of gold bars and trinkets from the vault were stashed across the three cars. In each trunk, Rosie had brought a few blankets which easily hid the loot. Placing it in the trunk felt surreal. You still could hardly believe you and the others pulled it off. S' shouts halt your train of thought, the eldritch robot declaring excitedly, "Woohoo! Let's get this party started!"

As he said that the mailroom exploded, a fiery bomb ripping through the concrete building. Before you got in you took one last glance at the compound, feeling woozy. Despite the operation an apparent success it just didn't feel like you did it right.

And that Laughing Plan. Nobody had the faintest clue what it could mean.

"It'll be alright." Tabi said. "We won." He opened the passenger door and got in, buckling his seatbelt.

"I'm not sure."

"We'll quit skulking. Let's get the hell outta dodge!" Rosie shouted as she rev'd the engine.

You fasten your seatbelt. Sitting in one of the very cars you pulled over forever-ago, it felt like it had been a lifetime since Rosie was your enemy.

You check your comlink. Still down. It worked with nearby ones though not with the base camp. With Updike behind you, you asked, "Are you sure Psychic's not at the data centre?"

"No." He replied instantly. "There is something else there blocking the signal."

"Well surely we're gonna run into him right?"

"I have planned for that. Kapi. Is Hex still there?"

"Yes! It's all windy out here." A cheery voice replied. "Hey, get off me!" Kapi shouted in annoyance. "Well how am I 'sposed to talk to him?"

"Do you truly believe Psychic can be saved?"

"Of course! He's not that bad-"

"Do you have a way of contacting him?"

"Well yeah I can SOS but he told me not to until it's a serious emer-"

"Here's the plan. You will call an SOS when I say. It will get Psychic away and will save him."

"A-are you sure?"

"Absolutely."

"Alright. I'll be listening." Hex said proudly. "Can't you just take the comlink-" Kapi started to protest again.

Rosie honked the horn. "Everyone ready to go?"

"Pompom! Is your spell ready?" You ask to the comlink.

"I am ready. I just need the uh conduit."

"Alright. Rosie we can go. Still nothing from the data centre but I'm sure they'll be back up soon." You said. Silently you were worried, still unsure if that earlier explosion came from the data centre or not. Agoti and Aldryx were visibly worried, both minds racing of what happened there.

There were no further objections. Foot on the pedal, Rosie pulled out first, easily taking lead.

You reached over and turned the radio knob, looking for a police station. Turning the dial you found nothing but static. In fact, all radio stations were offline. "Must be from the storm." Rosie remarked, changing the radio to CD.

Thinking on it, the police didn't really show up at all. Last you hear they arrested the SDS but that was it. And if Solazar's ruse worked then they wouldn't be suspecting anything else. SDS took the entire fall.

With the fence surrounding the compound only one car-ready-entrance existed. A unit, described on the map as the garage and lots was a small parking lot, dwarfed by a large building aside for the Family's extensive car collection. According to Lila's plans it had tough security and a steady patrol. That made sense that the entrance be so heavily guarded.

It also made it pointless to attack from. During the plan it was never considered aside from Whitty unhelpfully suggesting they steal the cars for the getaway. This was rejected for obvious reasons as was Tabi's proposal of blowing up the building.

Now Playing...

Artist: Throvn

Song: No Limit

Link: https://youtu.be/BkNT0o-MfFk

Looking as Rosie's drives by, you saw cars within it roar to life, demons in each. Rosie noticed it too and honking her horn loudly declared, "BRING IT!"

Shaking your head you couldn't see how this wouldn't attract police. You just hoped that with the police chief inside somewhere they knew not to interfere.

Looking around you didn't see a single light on in any buildings. Hopefully it wouldn't wake anyone either. You drew your gun.

"That's the spirit!" Rosie gave you a nudge. Still driving fast as the demons started the chase. "Alright everyone. We can't alert the cops. Last I checked they were at the intersection of Holloway and Coolmath. If we gotta split off stay away and head to the rendezvous. Until then, let's start's hunting!" She concluded with a giggle.

The car propelled forward, Rosie hitting the gas now. The demons followed, all ready for the 'race'. Armed as well, you hear gunshots from behind you. Instinctively, Tabi and Huggy duck, turning back to get a shot. Updike turned back and drew his silenced pistol. He didn't say anything but was equally annoyed as you were that this could alert the feds.

With the demons at the back they targeted the one in last, Nikku, S and the survivors. A bullet lodged square into the back of S' head. It didn't pierce it but hit hard enough for him to notice.

"So stupid." He reached behind his head and ripped the bullet out. "Nikku do something!" S looked behind him, seeing the demons trying to shoot out the tires now. "I don't know what to do!" Nikku ducked, hoping not to get shot herself.

Still driving S put his hand out, an object emerging out of the palm. Cylindrical with a wire, Nikku recognized it instantly. "A pipe bomb? Where did you-"

"Built it while we were waiting. Just push the button and throw it."

"Mh-hm!" Nikku did so and holding the seat threw it at the demons. Retro and Sarv ducked out of the way, worried she'd blow up the car. Dodging it, the demons swerved. Despite missing it exploded, a ball of fire behind everyone, setting off nearby car alarms.

"Explosives?!" Updike shouted in into the comlink. "It will be a miracle if we can get out of this without detection."

"Awesome right?" S said, giving Nikku a pat on the back.

"Y-yeah, urgh. I don't feel so well." The headache returned, far stronger than before. Getting back in her seat she looked down, trying to stop from throwing up.

More bullets fired, all missing S though one hit the windshield. "Hey freeloaders, can you two do something?!"

"R-right!" Sarvente said. Unbuckling she turned back and aimed her hands, getting magic ready. Retro too, got his hands ready, acid glowing on them. "Retro hit that car!" Sarv shouted. He did so, a glob of acid hitting the front of the vehicle. In the distraction, Sarvente used magic to get a hold of a parked car, smashing the front of it onto the acidic spot, causing both to collide and crush the front.

"Agoti, can you drive?" Radi asked. While S' car was dealing with the demons, others started speeding ahead going for the middle. One was close behind, hitting the back of the car with a machinegun.

"I got it!"

"Alright. Keep the car straight." Radi unbuckled and climbed to the back of the car, pushing aside Pompom and Nikusa. Thanks to Nikusa and Pompom's magic a force field protected the car. "Oh, watch this Pompom. This is why I started hanging with him." With a smirk, Radi got on all fours as he stood on the trunk, looking forward. "Yo, slow down 10km!"

Agoti nodded allowing the demon to catch up. Radi jumped to the car, landing on top of the front. The demons shrieked, Radi making quick work of them. Nikusa covered Pompom's eyes, the magician not needing to see demons melting and radioactive slaughter.

Throwing the corpses out of the car, Radi hit the gas and took over it, parts of the car glowing a bright green from Radi's nuclear waste.

"I can sense Ruv and Selever! Are they here?" Sarvente shouted.

"Hex! We're gonna need that SOS now!" Updike shouted.

"On it!" Hex responded instantly, grabbing Kapi and speaking into his ear. "Hex let me go!" Kapi bellowed again.

On the rooftops, Ruv wiped the sweat from his forehead. This Psychic guy was tough.

Psychic stood on the opposite end of the building, panting. He had the same thoughts.

Next to Ruv, semi-conscious and wheezing was Selever, lying on his back staring up. Psychic possessed him earlier, figuring a father wouldn't hurt his own son. This was poorly judged as Ruv saw Selever in need of exorcising. He had no problem beating his son to a pulp, slamming Selever to the ground repeatedly. Ruv saw no reason to hold back against his son. For fear of Selever's own safety, Psychic stopped controlling him.

Since then the two were clashing, Ruv's voice able to cause shockwaves in Psychic's energy and Psychic using ESP to hurt Ruv. But everything they hit each other with just brought the other back more determined. With all the surrounding rooftops damaged and not a single window intact, the two glared at each other.

They both obtained a modicum of respect for each other. Psychic was surprised at the brazen way Ruv attacked him even if he couldn't scan his mind. He stopped scanning all together, not needing to hear Selever's bratty thoughts.

All he could hear was that brat's mind and...

"Wait." Psychic grabbed Ruv's fist, stopping the force. It shockwaved around them, a gust of wind bursting.

SOS.

On open water. It was Hex. Psychic forced back Ruv. Ruv reacted fast and dashed back, ready to rip another AC unit off the building and chuck it at Psychic. Not saying another word Psychic flew up, jetting towards the signal. Ruv was a distraction and now Hex was in serious trouble.

Ruv dropped the unit and started to run after Psychic when Selever finally spoke. "Mom? I can hear mom!"

As if he had no wounds, Selever got up and flew to the edge, fast as wings could carry him. Down the road and approaching rapidly he saw a gaggle of cars. Waving over his dad, they saw Sarvente waving at them from below.

It didn't take long for Ruv to piece it together. Clearly Updike found Sarv and was now pursued by demons. They had to help! He motioned to Selever as he sat on edge, legs dangling off. He waited until the cars came speeding down the road and, just before one of the demon cars passed by, jumped off, landing square on the car.

Ruv landed in the middle, crumpling two of the seats and causing a shake felt around. Selever was right behind him, landing in the car too. Making quick work of the demons the car crashed as it spun out. Watching for Radi, Ruv and Selever jumped to his car, joining him.

With the ongoing chaos nobody noticed Ruv's entrance. Or if they did you failed to notice, too busy working with Tabi to deal with the demons currently trying to ram your car.

Finally using his flamethrower, Tabi fired it off, clouds of fire enveloping the opposing car. Rosie shouted at Tabi about aiming near the gas tank. His reckless attack was damaging her car, now creating further issues as Rosie rammed back.

It didn't help that she was completely enjoying this. Curiously, Updike had been quiet the whole time, typing away at something on his phone.

"This isn't good." He muttered to himself. "What are you on about? Y'know some help would be nice." Rosie snarked.

"Think about it. Nobody has noticed our presence."

"So? Who cares?" Tabi spat as grabbed one of the demon's shoulders and ripped him out of the car, tossing him behind. He didn't look as the demon got ran over by Agoti's car, the digidevil enjoying the chase as much as Rosie.

"Try calling the fae." Udpike ordered Rosie. She shrugged by did so anyways, using her hands-free system. Strangely, there was no response, phone indicating it had no signal.

The demons changed up their strategy. Now having to worry on Radi and Ruv behind them they focused more on taking specific cars down at a time. Still weakened, both Sarv and Retro had to stop firing off energy. It left S' car defenceless. One of the demon cars slammed into the side of S' vehicle, sending it awry. S regained his speed quickly, resuming the straight path.

"I..I can see everything." Nikku said in a daze. Her headache vanished, replaced by an intense drone. It felt as if someone was drilling into her head and then replaced by absolute clarity. Body freaking out she just hung her head out the car and threw up, groaning in pain.

"Yo demon chick. Can't you help her?" S shouted to Sarv. "I-I'm not sure what's happening!"

She reached over the seat to help Nikku but the demon attacks drew her attention elsewhere. Using little magic she put a forcefield protecting the car's side, just enough to stop the ramming.

"Yo neon guy. Take the wheel!" S shouted to Retro. He nodded and jumping over took the seat easily took control keeping the car's speed.

"M-mom?" Nikku said out loud. Landing on the seat next to her, S held Nikku. "Nah it's me. The hell's wrong with you? You dying?" S said as he patted Nikku. She threw up again, onto the road.

She turned to S, her eyes glowing. "S-S I can see everything. E-everything. I can remember!" She said, more frightened than anything.

"Yo Starline! We got a problem here! Nikku's dying!"

"It's likely her memory is coming back. Just stay by her. We cannot stop now." Updike said curtly.

With Retro driving and Sarv on defence, S stayed by Nikku, rubbing her back as her mind forced itself free. She could hardly speak and started shivering.

"C'mon Nikku. Just breathe!"

S glanced up to see a demon car about to ram them. He pulled Nikku up as he moved her out of the way. Pistol in hand the demon shot at S, directly hitting him in the eye, shattering the lenses, blinding him.

"ARGH! ROUGE! I THOUGHT YOU WERE PROTECTING US!" S shouted in anger as he pushed Nikku aside. He jumped upwards and dove into the demon's car as it exploded off the road.

Now really pissed, S set his sights on one of the remaining cars. Two demons in a convertible currently engaged with Agoti.

With Nikusa focusing her magic on protecting Radi and Aldryx trying to use oil to throw off the demons, it left Pompom, vainly shooting magic. She was charging up, readying some sort of powerful spell to fire off at the demons.

S got ready to dive into the demon's car, aiming with his good eye the best place to tear a throat. He dove, anger blinding him.

A direct hit as he smashed through the windshield, instantly grabbing the demon's throat. "S MOVE!" Pompom shouted as she let her spell go.

With Tabi finally managing to shoot your assailant enough times you had a minute to breath. You saw in slow motion as Pompom's spell, a rainbow-coloured beam collided with S.

And then, as if all light were snuffed out, everything went black.

Now Playing...

Artist: Antimatter

Song: Nuvistor

Link: https://youtu.be/54AqklWFNGU

Silence crept in too. The feel of the wind, the smell of tires peeling, the shouts from other drivers, even the bitter taste of worry in your mouth all gone. You felt nothing.

Blinking again, you see yourself standing in a black void. Something was dripping from your eyes as dizziness set in.

You weren't even sure if you were breathing, your pulse silent.

"Hehe." A maniacal voice giggled. "That's all it took huh...That's all it took." It sounded all around you.

Your look to your hand, suddenly visible, a black liquid on your fingers.

"What the-" You start to say but hear nothing.

You feel something tug on your pant and latch to your belt. Looking to the side you see that doll. A doll of Tails from Mobius, low-poly and cartoony. But that was from VR. And you weren't in-

"Hello, (Y/N)." That voice said again. Looking in front you see S. Not that robot he piloted but the real S.

A blue anthro hedgehog, large sharp quills on his head along with two pointy ears. He wore white gloves and white and red running shoes. They were stained with dried blood and black spots. He looked like the real Sonic you'd seen on S' except for his 'dark' features.

"S." You finally managed to say. It didn't sound like your voice, distorted and hoarse.

His eyes and eyelid fully black, red spots where the iris were, glowing red. It tinted his nose that colour as well. From his eyes blood dripped, though this time they were a dark red, chunkily flowing down his face. You could hear noise, electronics glitching.

"Hello!" S shouted in a malicious happiness.

Inside his mouth was black with rows of sharp teeth. The blood stained them, only adding to his dark mystique. Having lived with S for months it didn't bother you anymore but this time it felt different. It felt real.

You look to the side to see Pompom standing there, a blank expression on her face. She was petrified, her whole body a shade of grey. Nikku stood beside her, still hunched over as she struggled with her memory.

"They're fine. You just can't see what they see. I just wanted you three to get a proper introduction. After all. As of today you three are the ones that freed me."

"I gotta say." S walked up to Pompom, walking around her. "It feels good to be alive. To breath actual air. Let's get you up to date first."

Impossible to describe in conventional words you saw the real Sonic's life. Everything from his birth to his battles on Planet Freedom to the Starline war and it all happened in a second.

S looked to you. "Now then. Let's get this party started~"

You blink, immediately blinded by the surroundings. Everything hits you all senses return. The first thing you hear amongst the noise is Tabi shouting if you were alright.

You wave a hand to signal you were fine, realizing that black ink was here too, dripping down your head.

You cough a bit, more black liquid coming out.

Updike saw it too, Pompom undergo the same thing. Then he saw a black energy around the demon's car. As it faded, Updike realized exactly what transpired.

A rigid man, Updike was always planning ahead, ready for any possibly contingencies. After all, he was on a team with abominations. He needed to be ready for anything, even if he knew them all to be safe.

But this.

This he could not have predicted. Pompom had done the impossible.

She brought S to life.

As S got his bearings he smashed into each demon car as if it were a pinball, destroying them all in under 10 seconds. Nobody knew what happened, the whole slaughter a blue blur and red mist.

The demons were chasing them until they weren't, all gone.

S warped beside Pompom. "Hello! It's good to be here."

"Y-you're real?!" She reached out to touch one of S' quills. It was soft, just as she imagined.

"In the flesh." He smiled, bearing fangs.

"Huh. So you finally joined the world of the living." Remarked Nikusa.

"Wow. You're even more badass in real life." S winked at Nikusa then warped to Nikku. He held her as she regained her bearings. Being frozen in S' introduction allowed her to re-adjust. Seeing S standing on the centre console she hugged him. "S!" She shouted. S hugged back, slightly surprised at the contact.

Updike knew he didn't know any way to stop S. It didn't matter right now and wouldn't matter until later. For now he required S' help, looking to the monster as an ally, not a threat.

"S! Can you boost Pompom's magic?"

"I can. Why?" S warped to Updike. He could feel Updike's disgust at him, but also could feel Updike's respect. He could even hear some thoughts.

"Rosie! Pull into a stop here! We need to cast the spell. S take Pompom to the top of a building and have her cast it."

Seeing no substantial threat, and only a few blocks away from the data centre Rosie slowed down, as did everyone around.

"Did we win?" Selever asked, confused.

Agoti was about to say something about Selever being present but stopped, Aldryx grabbing his brother's shoulder and pointing behind him.

They saw a blue streak emerge from the data centre. They knew exactly what the blue blur was, a pillar of light emitting from it.

They also noticed the sky now was no longer black but a deep red. The moon vanished behind the clouds as well, dementing the horizon to a twisted nightmare.

"D-dad?" Agoti asked, trying to see the blue star from behind the clouds.

You were busy staring up at S. With Pompom on his shoulders the two flew up to building. Holding Pompom up she casted the spell, a shockwave of magic emitting from all around.

With S' power boosting it, the conduit wasn't even needed. Still, the blast hit the antennas at the compound. While you couldn't see it you could certainly feel the spell, making you feel tingly all over.

The spell was crafted in such a way that it avoided the team, Pompom knowing exactly who to hit now. S too, in his boost made sure the team was avoided. After all, he wanted them to never forget him.

Up high, Pompom watched.

"That's so cool!" She squealed.

"I know right?!" S said in agreement.

The sky had started to brighten, the dark clouds taking on a shade of dark orange and maroon.

"Are you doing that too?" Pompom asked, pointing at the sky. While S did find the sky cool he didn't take the credit for it. "No way. I wouldnta done it that slow."

A ding on your comlink rung, indicating a connection re-established.

"Team Lisp! Carnival! Anyone? Are you alive?!" Displo shouted into the link.

"We hear you." You respond. "Oh thank goodness! We're coming! We've figured out what the Family was doing. It's already started!"

"Where's dad?" Agoti shouted in response.

"We don't have time to explain! Just stay where you are!" Tess said quickly.

As much as S wanted to continue his introduction and establish just what he was capable of he grabbed Pompom and dropped her off in the car. He could hear something. Unintelligible to the common ear it was something he heard on an eldritch level. Like a piercing static humming in the background.

Nikusa and Nikku heard it too, their cosmic origins allowing for it.

Displo drove in terror. He couldn't help it. He was terrified at the prospect of what he uncovered.

Earlier he looked through IRIS logs. He looked for anything IRIS had that could handle that much energy. Nothing.

He kept looking.

Deleted logs, recovered logs, classified documents, scrapped files. Nothing. Until he saw one thing. Buried in the IRIS requisition logs. And purposely spelled incorrectly and purposely.

'Improsability Drive trasnferred to Blacksite-CVE.'

Correcting the error, everything clicked. Tess already knew, Displo giving her the log. To the rest he barely knew how to begin explaining. All he knew was that they'd have to brainstorm an escape plan, not get to get far from the compound, but get out of this place.

Displo saw the Carnival up ahead, cars all waiting and several of the members standing around. He pulled to an immediate halt, mind overwhelmed at what the Laughing Plan really was.

Now Playing...

Artist: LUNAR

Song: Guardian Tag

Link: https://youtu.be/L_cZw-6G0uQ

A year ago the TCF falls. A security breach brings the agency to its knees. Freelance agent Blueballs is responsible for rounding up the Trollges. Rumours that Blueballs is responsible for the TCF fall circulate. He saves a number of trollges though a few get away. It is thought TCF's breach was an inside job. Maybe the Family did it. That information is not known. Regardless, the Family captures 3 trollges. JJ, Smiler and Legion. They proceed to start siphoning energy from them. Smiler is the only one who rebels, a collar placed forcing him to stay put. JJ, believing that adults were to blame for all the wrong in the world, cooperates though still gets collared. Legion, being able to read minds agrees with the Family's plans, allowing them to take as much energy as they want.

The Laughing Plan must have started around here. Demonic energy was needed but not at a fast rate. Mommy and Daddy used their own in small spurts.

At some point, the Family places spies in TGG and IRIS. These two companies were the only groups who could viably take down the Family now.

The trollges and Psychic make it impossible to anyone to even get into the compound. This stops IRIS and TGG operations in the area. Additionally, the rise of the Lightbringers Church and Nikku's crash take TGG's attention elsewhere. Sarvente joins the Family's outer circle as they start to forge ties.

(Y/N) launches an investigation against the Family citing their crimes, disappearances and mafia-like behaviour. This investigation lasts two months before (Y/N) is forced off the case and nearly killed, only saved by the police chief.

The Family must have realized that they weren't invincible as they thought. (Y/N), a nobody, proved they could be pushed around. They needed to speed things up. The Family then kidnapped RetroSpector and begun siphoning his energy too, in higher doses. The Family were never known to kidnap or target other demons prior to this.

Psychic helped them kidnap Retro, mind-controlling Ace and effectively convincing him he was the sole reason Retro was captured. This shuts up him until he meets the Carnival, Ace unable to cope with the loss.

The Carnival takes down Sarvente, someone who was starting to work with The Family. It was possible Sarvente inclusion in their little 'club' was a ploy to get more demonic energy though that's unknown. After all, one demon can only produce so much. With Sarvente out of the picture the Laughing Plan is set back and The Family worried again.

They get paranoid and launch the Night of Fire against the Carnival, slaying Displo, destroying the HQ, arresting Agoti and attempting assassinations of Tabi, Kapi and Pompom. The Carnival is destroyed as far as they care.

They want to hurry now. The Carnival was an axis of people who hated them. If their enemies were uniting it could spell the end of the Family. They need more energy and needed it now.

Cassandra, one of the daughters is assassinated by the Donnas. Though they don't know it was Rosie who did it, they are getting scared now.

Not wanting undue attention from Hell they try kidnapping the demon of Hololive. That fails, foiled by TGG and Blackjack.

They possibly consider Zardy at some point, giving up as they realize he's not strong enough.

Now aware of Blackjack they make a move against him, successfully kidnapping him from the arcade. They take his mask off and drain his energy, effectively turning him into a feral beast. He cannot fight back.

But that wasn't enough energy. With Sarvente going through a spiritual awakening and 'switching sides' they kidnap her and siphon her energy. They had a casus belli to do.

Against Psychic, Legion and JJ the 3 demons had no chance of ever freeing themselves.

The siphoning of the energy requires massive power consumption, something Updike and TGG notice while surveying the compound.

At some point the Family obtain enough energy and invite the police chief and mayor over, wanting to show them the Laughing Plan, a proposal to 'fix crime in the city' or something.

With the mayor and police chief being two major power brokers in the city it's possible the invitation was a ruse and they intended to take them out, further cementing their control on the city.

With insurmountable amounts of trollge and demonic energy they could do anything. But what? To use such a high amount of energy would require a conduit, something to control it all. While powering themselves up was a possibility it wouldn't last. The power must be used elsewhere.

Operation Teardown happens and several members mention the Laughing Plan is starting soon. Tonight according to Psychic.

Team Python fights Daddy and wins. Daddy flees to the hangar. With Team Lisp split between dealing with JJ and the police, they fail to notice Daddy going. Mommy already went earlier. Once in the hangar they both decide to trigger the Laughing Plan.

Legion, with his own mind-reading powers already knew what the Laughing Plan entailed. His motives always unclear Psychic and Daddy guess he could make a move against them once the opportunity arose. With Psychic having the data centres location he and Daddy order Legion to go attack it, getting him out of the way of the trigger.

Botan comes in and mentions that the world outside is different. Darker and stranger. The data centre loses its signal. Could be the result of Legion, could be the result of something more nefarious. Displo fires off the LOIC which should've alerted everyone in the surrounding area. Nothing but crickets. And Rosie and co were engaged in a shootout and hadn't alerted anyone.

They weren't on Earth anymore and hadn't been for awhile.

How?

Psychic knew the members of the team and passed that information onto Daddy. Or maybe it was chosen by area and people were still in those buildings, slain, hiding or corrupted. Mommy must have activated it around then.

But then where were they?

That's when Displo started looking through the logs. What was the conduit?

Displo processed this information in real-time coming to an answer just as his finished his thoughts. One of the Family's spies transferred a single item out of IRIS storage. Name misspelled, nobody noticed it until now.

The Improbability Drive.

An object, a weapon of insurmountable power, capable of warping realities and dimensions. It was created by NEXUS, a long defunct organization dealing with abominations.

Displo knew the history. NEXUS caused the Madness Wars, a event that ripped the city apart, changing its course on history forever. Thousands died. The city was never the same.

In that war was one of the only beings capable of transporting entire areas to other dimensions. A being of indescribable violence. A creature that became one with that aforementioned drive. That 'creature' was long dead though. He was sealed and within the deepest recesses of hell.

Hank killed him.

...But with enough Trollge power and demonic energy one could-

Displo's mind froze, circuits heating up. He felt fear, true terror in his servos. As he drove he saw eyes in the buildings. At first he thought they were people but realizing now they weren't anymore. He re-focused on the road, ignoring Tess' concerned questions.

...And with enough power one could even revive that creature.

The Immortal Scourge of Newgrounds City.

The Destroyer of NEXUS.

The One Who Killed Thousands.

The Clown.

Known only by one word.

Tricky.

Cauda 18 - Painting the Sky Red

"YOU CANNOT KILL CLOWN! CLOWN KILLS YOU!"

Now Playing...

Artist: Steam-Flow

Song: Our Freedom Cannot Die

Link: https://youtu.be/tjSeE1CWPu4

You blink, finding yourself no longer on Newgrounds City streets. There was much confusion as the transition appeared instant. The sky turned a bright crimson, blank of all manners of clouds and stars. Behind you was a mountain, a series of Mars-coloured cliffs that encircled a battlefield. They didn't extend infinitely high, though towered over everyone. Judging by the existance of ruins, this was where the Compound once stood.

From beyond the moutains ensnaring the field, black mountains further in the distance stood. Jagged and angled strangely, they apeared almost more like brambles than massive rock structures. This wasn't Earth. There was no question about it.

In the circular field you found yourself and the others standing at the southern point.

Whatever grass, hills and road once existed here was gone as well, replaced with flat red dirt. Such observations did not go on for long as Theo's voice caught your attention.

"By jove, where are we?" You look to see him further to the eastern point of the circle, Updike's boat just sitting unevenly on the flat surface. He stood up from the captain's seat looking around at the alien landscape.

The others on the boat were present too, similarly confused. Kapi, Ace, Hex and Psychic. Ace saw you and the others first, his eyes immediately focusing on Retro. He screamed and ran to him, going on all fours to grab the demon into a strong hug.

Not as far as Theo's crew another car was present. By the blinking, glowing lights around it and people seated, you determined it to be the Fae and the Donnas. Guess they didn't make it to the forest.

A beep from the left got your attention next. Standing there, across the field on the western side was Boyfriend and Girlfriend, seated in their car. They stopped it, getting out, perplexed at what happened to them.

Tabi noticed them too, though his attention was turned elsewhere. He had more prescient things to deal with at the moment. A bit further from the lovebirds stood Solazar, a gangly black creature next to him panting on the ground, trying to hold himself up.

"Guy's got taste." S stated aloud. "Which guy-" You see now what the others were looking at.

Everyone was staring up at the middle of the field. In the centre were several buildings that looked to have been smashed together. You vaguely recognize some of the buildings as from the compound, as if a black hole launched them all together in one mass. Some windows had lights still on while others were smashed in. Stuck out of the ground, the industrial collage appeared to be half-sunk in the ground, sitting at a 45 degree angle, sticking up maybe a story or two.

Though obscured by the buildings in the centre you could just narrowly see a few people standing by at the northern-most point of the circle.

Mommy, Daddy, and a group of demons and hellhounds. They were blocked by the view of the buildings though you could plainly see Daddy looked like hell.

His attention wasn't on you and judging by the energy felt everyone wasn't looking the strange building, but rather what floated above it. You could feel energy emanating from it, like a warm breeze.

It couldn't be. You had to double-take just to make sure you weren't delirious. Judging by the others muted moods, it was real.

He was there.

A humanoid figure with a stocky body. He wore a sand-coloured robe which covered most of his features. A frilly lining covered his neck, two blue beads hanging from it. Despite the robe, it covered where his arms should have been, two green disembodied hands floating at his sides. By your own familiarity with the being you knew he had no arms.

A goalie's mask covered his face, gleaming in the maroon landscape, made of metal. It blocked out his features though you knew what lurked under it. The only thing from his green head you could see was the two large, tufts of orange hair that

You knew what he looked like under the mask and knew about his non-existent arms because you knew who he was. There was no mistaking it, after all you remember hearing of the Madness Wars when you were a child. An ultraviolent conflict that nearly destroyed Newgrounds City. Started by an organization called NEXUS it permanently scarred the city. You remembered seeing your parents watching the news, catching one glimpse of the field of dead bodies, Tricky standing among them. It terrified you and burned the image into your head. You parents were aghast and forced you back to bed. It wasn't your conflict. They said.

That was Tricky, the scourge of Newgrounds City, the Clown. And though he died there, here he was now, floating above the battlefield. The principle antagonist after the fall of NEXUS, Tricky saw the near destruction of the city, only stopped by a mercenary known as Hank.

And there was no doubt in your mind anymore about the secrets. The Laughing Plan was Tricky's resurrection. Everyone involved in that event was dead except Hank, and even then nobody knew what his fate really was.

Tricky held the weapon he used in his slaughters, a stop sign. Stained with blood it had to be the same one used all those years ago.

You gulp, mind returning to strategic thought, wondering if it was even possible to win this. The others felt similar judging by the silence. Those that didn't such as Ruv, could still feel the primal fear Tricky exuded. This was no regular monstrosity. Tricky was a holy terror unlike others. Even S didn't have the same level of gravitas Tricky emitted.

The sound of wind could be heard as Tricky looked at all who stood before him.

"Hmm, I've seen him before. Just can't remember when." Pompom blurted out. It did nothing to ease the tensions though caused some movement within your camp. Updike looked to Displo, his eyes wide for the first time. All unsaid, he and Displo already came to the same conclusions you did.

For now, Tricky just stood there, still thinking.

"We have to kill him." Nikku said, finally. Her eyes were still glowing, possibly a side-effect of her memory returning. "This is his dimension." Nikusa muttered, unhelpfully.

"Pft. I can take him." S said.

Displo looked around now, noticing Solazar and Legion.

Though Legion looked like hell he was still alive. He was moving more organically, indicating whatever Solazar did had weakened him.

"Legion is still alive?" Displo muttered.

Solazar looked now, seeing who else got summoned here. "I could not reach the sun." He said. "I burned him with what I could."

Legion, as you understood it was the gangly black creature. Whatever its origin he stood up in an instant, flashing its twisted grin to you. Raising a hand it only froze after hearing the ear splitting scream.

Looking at the arena you saw another one. Not as lanky as Legion, it picked itself off the ground, axe in hand. It looked around, just as confused as everyone. Displo saw him too, immediately calling to him. "Case 23! Get over here and help us!" He commanded.

The creature blinked seeing Nikku, Hex and Displo. What was left of its mind pieced it together. The televisions, his daughter. Those standing around helping. Raising his axe he shouted that he would help, running to your side. You didn't think much of it. With Tricky, every ally would be needed. He joined Displo's side, the restaurateur commanding him.

Tricky commanded attention now. "WHERE IS HANK?" A twisted voice echoed across the battlefield. Distorted and warbled in its sound you weren't sure if that's what he said.

You knew what Tricky was capable of. The very fact he hadn't started slaughtering everyone had to have been cause of the sheer number of people. The whole Carnival was here as well as most of the Dearest Family and its demonic regiment. With around 50 plus possible combatants around, Tricky was trying to find familiar faces.

Between your internal thoughts and the wind picking up you hear Daddy shout something at Tricky. Whatever it was, set it him off. He rose his stop sign, screaming, "YOU CANNOT KILL CLOWN! CLOWN KILLS YOU!"

The battle begun. Tricky remained up top as 'clones' of him started appearing around the battlefield. You can't remember what the species was actually called but they all appeared the same. Simple humanoid figures, simple enough a child could draw them. Consisting of five pieces they had a simple square torso and plain head. A simple circular head devoid of all features except a cross / T on their face where their eyes, nose and mouth should have been As if someone started drawing a person but stopped on the basic figure.

Hands and feet were not connected to their body, rather floating around their body where each part should normally be. Not detailed in any way each had a simple hand, 5 fingers and for feet, just shoes, no digits or anything. They couldn't reach infinitely but could move the disembodied parts all over. They were the same species as Tricky.

Whether or not they were zombies, lost souls under Tricky's command or his own clones they spawned all over the battlefield, ready to tear apart everyone. Varied, some had bandages on, some wore helmets, some had bloody wounds, others covered in dirt, some wore tactical gear and some wore goggles. Either way, they were active and ready for war.

The Carnival Vs. Tricky, Scourge of Newgrounds City

Now Playing...

Artist: Hans Zimmer & Lorne Balfe

Song: Zodiac Chase / Protocol

Link: https://youtu.be/xKco4k4LwtcM

Enough standing scared. You raise your voice and take command. "Everyone! Build a perimeter!" You run back and start pushing cars to build a makeshift wall. Psychic acted quickly using his own powers to lift the boat and move it to the cars, taking with him the rest of that team. Rosie flagged over the Fae and Donnas, ordering them to join the mass.

Carol, Pompom and Ace started building a perimeter, using their own magic and abilities to generate fortifications. Once settled, Psychic flew off, jutting with speed to grab to Boyfriend and Girlfriend. Forcing them back in the car he took them to join the existing fortification. Leaving Legion behind, Solazar joined too, the mass of people now effectively defending the south.

There wasn't time to think yet. Didn't matter how the Family fared in the north nor why Psychic was all of a sudden on your side. It was time only to hold the horde off.

Guns, magic, fists and abilities drawn everyone got ready for combat.

"Beep!" Boyfriend shouted, seeing Tabi. Instinctively, Boyfriend stood in front of Girlfriend, still not trusting the goatman.

Under the cacophony of gunfire, spells and other attacks against the horde, Tabi's flaming eyes set upon the lovebirds. Drawing from his hip he pulled his pistol and fired it, bullet hitting one of the madness creatures, bullet hitting it square in the face. Eyes wide, Boyfriend let out a quiet 'Eeep!'. "I'll kill you later." Tabi said, resuming his focus on assisting the Carnival. For now, he was helping Botan, the idol-figure who was taking sniper shots at the horde. With how mindless and erratic they were moving, she guessed them to be more like the undead.

Nearby, Agoti witnessed the whole thing, the digidevil working with his brother to spit up oil to act as a slick deterrent. "See, told ya he wasn't so bad." He said, tongue out.

Elsewhere, Legion was assailed by the dummy-looking creatures. He slaughtered them, his claws cutting through their fabric-like but still gory-insides. He took no relish in it, not particularly enjoying this slaughter. This prey was too easy.

Besides, there were more appealing targets in front of him. He cared little for Tricky, his beady eyes instead settling on the Carnival.

And standing amongst the Carnival was none other Boyfriend, or as he knew him, Agent Blueballs. He giggled. "Perfect~. Not the one I know but one nonetheless." He didn't move so much as it looked like he teleported, staying in the same standing pose but getting closer to the Carnival.

As the distance narrowed, someone flashed in front of him, also teleporting in.

A blue hedgehog, eyes dripping blood stood in front of him, far shorter than the trollge. He had his hands on his hips and a smirk on his face, standing opposite to the trollge.

"What are you?" Legion hissed. "Some kind of toy?"

"Pretty funny, What are you supposed to be? You look like a spider missing a few legs." He put a hand to his mouth as if he were whispering aside. "And a few brain cells too."

Legion grabbed the hedgehog, long claws wrapping around him. He picked him up, bringing him to his face. "You are nothing to me. I can see that clearly." Legion said smugly. "I will break you."

"That's pretty funny longboy. I'm pretty funny too. Let me show you." S warped back, making space between him.

Hands on the ground he leaned forward and started a spin dash. Kicking up dust around him he launched into Legion, crashing into him. They warped out of existance in a flash of black. S had been itching to use his full power. With nobody opposing him he relished the fact Legion was his, ready to see what he could do this monster.

Annie was the only offensive one not in combat. Delirious, Legion's wound on her arm spread, a black colour covering her arm and approaching her neck and breasts. Tired and pushed to the brink from both battles she just wheezed, sitting on top of the car, hoping for death to come. Nearby the Fae and Carol stood close using their own magic to stop the infection. It was the only thing fully keeping Annie from giving up. She could feel something seeping into her brain, a piercing giggle. One that would never end.

As the Fae worked on it, the spread slowed, Carol demanding Annie cut the suicidal crap and stay strong. With them focused on healing, Whitty, Ace and Retro stood close, holding off Tricky's army.

With X's in his eyes, Whitty used his fists to punch through, burning the lost souls to a crisp. While some had knives and weapons it did little to Whitty, fighting through it. They tore through his hoodie exposing a black, chiselled body, few bandages around it. With constant heals from Carol he was energized, bloodlust flowing throughout him. As he smashed through he screamed, feeling the power, blood starting to coat him.

Ace and Retro's reunion was cut short but the violence. The two knew they needed to work together. Time for catching up and apologies was later. Even though Retro felt the tire in his soul he knew to keep going. He made it this far. He wasn't going to let something like exhaustion snuff him out.

Ace and Retro worked together, Ace freezing and Retro melting. Where Ace could he froze Whitty's opponent, allowing for the walking nuke to smash through, throwing ice shards all about the place.

Carol struggled with Annie's infection. She'd never seen anything like it. While magic slowed it, if they stopped even slightly then it would keep spreading. There was something unholy about it.

Along the northwest of the perimeter and her donnas were engaged in a firefight, conserving ammo and keeping the monsters at bay. To them the fight felt divine and just, a battle of fairy kind against true evil.

Seeing Annie, Tess ran to Displo and Smiler, the robotgirl not having many offensive capabilities. "Displo, we can't stop it! What do we do?"

"Keep holding off the infection. Where is S?" Displo replied through the comlink. He was busy with his own calculations, trying to plan out how to kill Tricky.

No response from S.

"J-just keep her strong! And make sure she's awake!" Displo shouted.

At the northern point of the perimeter you, Tabi, Displo and Updike and Smiler were holding off the front. So far you all were doing a good job keeping the monsters at bay. With Tricky still focused on the Family you were worried that once he was done with them the real fight would start. No regard for his own safety Smiler stayed in the battlefield screaming about protecting his TV store and daughter. Whatever the case he was helping.

Displo stood behind everyone. For him he needed to figure out a way to win. Why the hell did the Family even want to resurrect Tricky? The answer had to be there.

That was it! A moment of clarity hit him.

The Family had shock collars, a controlling device. He saw it on Smiler through S' eyes. S saw it on JJ. Legion said he didn't need it when he invaded the data centre.

They seriously thought they could control Tricky. With all the preparations, planning and effort they went through they must have believed a controlled, nerfed Tricky could be under their command.

June 30th. They invited the mayor and police chief over to explain they had a superweapon. A weapon stronger then armies. Maybe they did it to propose it. Maybe they invited them over to show they could rule the city, nay, rule the country.

The Family continued the research of NEXUS and tonight they were going to debut it.

Until the Carnival came. And the Carnival, through its power forced the Family to possibly trigger the Laughing Plan early.

It sounded impossible but Displo knew it to be true. He tried to see beyond the structure in the middle, seeing Daddy rip apart one of the Tricky clones with his bare hands. He still looked confused, unsure as to why he was brought here.

"AHA!" S screamed as he flashed into existance above Tricky in the centre. He held Legion by the neck, the monster clawing at him. He threw Legion right into Tricky, the clown blocking it with his stop sign. Legion, still in a panic slashed at Tricky, cutting through his mask. They toppled over, landing somewhere on the Family's side now engaged in a battle.

"Pft!" S said as he warped to your side. "That guy was a wimp."

Psychic stared intently at Daddy, reading his mind. "What the hell." He muttered. "I can't find anything."

"Oh no." Updike said, hearing Psychic.

After a brutal defeat at the hands of the carnival both Mommy and Daddy decide to activate the Laughing Plan ahead of schedule. They already completed the prep and wished to show the 'brokers' before activating it. With the Carnival sending Mommy to hell, nearly killing Daddy and Psychic off wherever they go to the hangar. Luck was in their favour as the cops and JJ distracted Team Lisp from noticing this fact. Once in the hangar they activate the plan, making a seamless transition to Tricky's dimension.

With Psychic's intel, their own eye witness accounts and people still awake at night it makes it trivially easy to identify everyone's life sign to bring just them to the world.

The Family sends demons after the fleeing groups, either with some kind of extenders to trap them in the world or to try to bring them back alive. They fail but it doesn't matter.

With Tricky under their control they use his power to start summoning everyone to the 'arena'. This way they'll show them what power the Family has now....

But Pompom casts her spell erasing the memories of the demons and the Family. With S' boost it pierces Tricky as well. With no recollection of the Carnival, the Family or anything prior to his own death Tricky goes berserk.

Mommy and Daddy can no longer remember how to control Tricky or the system, the scourge of the city breaks free. Psychic, in a last ditch attempt tried to scan Daddy's memory, finding nothing that could help.

Psychic looked to Updike, aghast. "You've doomed us all." He said monotonly.

"Doomed us?" "We're not the ones who RESURRECTED TRICKY!" He shouted. "Have you lost it!?"

"Then we fight till we die." Psychic said coldly. "He cannot be killed."

While the others kept their distance, Nikusa had no problem getting physical, smashing the clones into dust, using them as weapons, as if she were a bear. Though they clawed and stabbed at her she felt little pain. To her, this was nothing.

Hearing the argument she just looked back and shouted, "Don't be dumb. Everything can be killed."

"Right! Tricky died once. We just do it again." You add.

Psychic laughed, finding everyone's determination comedic. "Yes. When Hank did it. Hank only killed him by being as graphic and ruthless as he. You people are not that. My family is not that. I am not that."

"Well I don't see you suggesting anything!" Tabi shot back, using his hunting knife again. He stabbed through the cross on their faces, slaying the monsters as they appeared.

"It's the improbability drive. That's the source of his power." Displo said. "It's moulded into him."

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!" Tricky screamed as got a hold on Legion. Disembodied hands held the creature above. Again atop the scrap tower he pulled, tearing Legion in half in a gruesome show. Black innards and a liquid spilled out as Legion merely grimaced.

Tricky threw the split Legion upon the ground, screaming again. "NO HANK! WHERE IS HANK?!" He jumped up and down on the scrap tower, stop sign floating back into his hand. He was pissed now.

Something sharp pierced your shoulder. A glance aside showed a bullet that nearly pierced your armour, purple glow stopping it. Psychic stood nearby, looking at you. He shook his head, saying nothing, though indicating it was he who stopped the bullet. Seeing the source, your eyes go wide. "Oh, you gotta be kidding me." You state, seeing two more figures approaching. Of all the people. The mayor and the...police chief, transfigured and while not apparently possessed by Tricky, not fully human anymore either. Their skin turned purplish, tinted the same was Daddy and Mommy were, red eyes glowing from where they looked from. Armed, they were ready for combat.

Much as a teary reunion, or heartfelt battle where you overcome emotions should have occurred there were far more pressing matters. S flew by, grabbing the mayor out of existance. You had a split second to see S' wide grin flash you before vanishing. He was having a blast.

You drew a gun, freshly reloaded during the chase and open fire on the police chief. Tabi too, took no time to spare and shot at, knowing full well the chief wasn't human anymore. He had it coming anyway, getting in bed with those demons.

Bullet hit him, crumpling to the ground. He grimaced in pain but stood back up. You let loose another bullet and it hits him square in the chest.

"urk." In another gruesome display he was bisected, a single swipe from Tricky. Eyes set on the glowing red holes from his metal mask, Tricky spun his stop sign in your direction.

Tricky's aggro was on the Carnival now.

You raise your gun, trying to psyche yourself up. I stopped S. I can stop him.

He lurched forward, slamming the stop sign into one of the cars where you stood. You step back, shooting his mask, trying to shoot in the holes. No hits, they merely bounced off the face cover.

The Carnival reacted fast. A flurry of glowing green liquid hit Tricky, the clown just barely blocking it. From the side Radi reacted. He may not have had any idea what Tricky was but could sense the danger.

Hands reaching forth, Tabi and Solazar pulled you out of the way, Tabi missing an attempt to stab Tricky's hands. The glowing liquid burned through the sign's metal, reducing the stop sign to a metal pole. It did null to stop Tricky who, using the metal pole jammed forward, landing right into Solazar's gut.

Solazar burned brightly, the temperatures not melting the metal in the slightly. Obtaining Tabi's flamethrower, Hex jumped by, letting it rip loose setting fire to one of Tricky's disembodied hands. His stomach burned, levels of dread unfamiliar to him.

On the ground with Tabi, he shouted. "I-it's a drive right? Can't we just short circuit it?"

"Allow me to try." Allowing the pole to sink deeper into Solazar's energy mass he reached for Tricky's shoulder's flying with him into the scrap tower. Solazar let loose his energy, exploding into a blinding ball of light in the centre.

"DON'T FORGET ABOUT ME!" Legion screamed as the top half crawled at towards you and Tabi, yourselves just getting a bit calmer.

"We got him! Just think about how to win!" Selever shouted, the Lightbringers officially joining the conflict. Ruv jumped forth, landing in front of Tricky.

While she couldn't feel a connection to hell her magic was still ready. Feeding off Selever's own magic she started creating illusions, using them to fend off the horde of Tricky's lost souls. They treated them as real people, slaughtering some and being murdered by others. It provided distraction, allowing for a few others to see the cosmic battle between Tricky and Solazar.

"DAD! BE CAREFUL!" Agoti shouted.

"Kill steal!" S shouted as he darted into the white light, joining Solazar on an eldritch level. A black streak cut through the circle like an eclipse as it morphed to a darker colour.

While the madness soldiers slowed down it didn't last long as a shockwave emitted from the sphere. Forcing everyone back it exploded as Solazar was thrown out, smashing onto of the cars.

"Crap." Tabi muttered.

The sphere turned black, S still inside fighting Tricky.

Gun empty, you draw the police baton, getting ready for combat.

"DAD!" Agoti and Aldryx shouted as they ran up to him, helping him up. "H-he is far strong than I anticipated." Solazar spat as she struggled to get up, a massive gash where his stomach should have been. It was as if no energy flowed there, a gaping hole present on the solarisapien.

"A-are you gonna be okay?" Agoti asked as Aldryx readied his fists and started fighting one of the Tricky clones.

"I just, ugh, need time to recover." Stumbling as he walked, Agoti set his dad down on the ground, the digidevil trembling in fear.

Psychic sighed. He could hear their thoughts, Agoti wanting his dad to be fine, Solazar worried he was seriously injured. He walked up to the solarisapien and put a hand on

He knew they were both energy-based beings. "You owe me." Psychic stated as he knelt down to transfer energy to Solazar.

Tabi glanced over, Psychic hearing those thoughts clearly. Why is he helping us?. He heard Girlfriend cheer on Psychic from a distance.

Eyes back on the sphere you see S as he is launched out of it. He caught himself on the ground, skidding a bit backwards as he growled in anger. "HE WON'T LET ME KILL HIM. MAKES ALL THE RULES." S shouted, gnashing his teeth. "CHEATER!"

A new sound emerged on the battlefield. Gunfire. Not from your side, but from all around. Some of the Tricky clones now armed with automatic weaponry, machine pistols and small arms.

You weren't sure if you moved or the Family moved but your eyes met Daddy's. A brief moment passed as you saw him, the demonic father, looking strangely at you. You swear he either doesn't recognize you or is perplexed why the cop he dragged was present. No time to put two-and-two together he resumes command of his own demons, working to keep himself safe. You think a temporary alliance would benefit though there was no time to even begin negotiating it.

"S!" Botan shouted, finally paying attention to her blackening legs. Though the bandages stopped the bleeding the infection spread,

S warped to her instantly, suddenly wearing a stethoscope and lab coat. "What's the problem? Oh it's that stupid troll thing. Ehn. I can fix you. Let's get to my office." S grinned as both disappeared out of existance.

On the western side of the 'camp', Annie and co were engaged in combat. With guns now involved they had to be more vigilante.

Annie was up now, most of her body turning to dark colour, trollge energy cluttering her mind. Fighting kept her sane, ignoring any gunshot wounds she was accumulating. She had no more liquid and was trying to keep herself sane.

They weren't a good shot but their appearance did up the ante.

Nikku found a new power. Practically being thrust into her full memory she racked her head, now remembering just what she was capable of. Generating stars and energy she shot them forth hitting the enemies at mach speed. They burned bullets as they flew by, Nikku hitting them with increased accuracy.

In the chaos she swore she heard S cheer her on.

Pompom too was energized. She knew she had to be strong. For Annie. And even though Annie was older than her she felt she owed it to her, show her that things weren't so bad. Zardy too, Pompom felt she needed to further prove herself. She couldn't access all the vines but could at least use the few that she pulled up when she took out JJ.

"Beep!" Boyfriend shouted, drawing a microphone. With Girlfriend atop the car they begun their own attack, using music to stop them.

Another duo was active, Huggy and Kapi. Huggy wasn't allowed to hunt anymore. Pompom's dad drilled that in the first time he brought a maimed rabbit indoors. He could forage but going around slaughtering animals was a big NO. Though he hadn't 'hunted' in months this fight reminded him of that. With Kapi giving him full sale to tear and rip as he pleased, the fluffy monster was in a state of ecstasy. And that Kapi was apparently encouraging it give him a sense of righteousness he never felt before. It also allowed him his share of guts to consume, the monster having gotten hungry since the operation started. Jars of preserve just didn't cut it.

It disgusted Kapi to no end but he felt he needed to do something to help. It's what Connor would have done. He didn't like the blood splatters on his fur either, already knowing he would need to wash and possibly bleach his clothing when all this was over.

You look back, Botan standing there. She looked just as focused as before, though a brief glance of her eyes showed a deep black. You weren't sure what S did to her but she was back in action, aiming with exceptional accuracy. Her legs appeared normal.

The sphere in the centre faded, leaving not Tricky but some other kind of being. You recognize it as him, but he changed.

He was larger now, his humanoid body gone. In its place a blinding red fire burned covering where his body once was. The fire even formed two burning cones on each side of his head where his orange hair once hung. He wasn't the same being, now consisting of three appenditures emerging out of the fire. Two large hands, long black claws on each hung, still attached to the fire they still moved freely. His skin turned a burnt colour, further removing any humanity Tricky may have had.

His head, larger now, shone two large white eyes, contorted into a violent look. It was as if he had no skin at all, every muscle line where his eyebrows were visible. His mouth too, every single one of his yellowed sharp teeth were visible into a focused look, not hidden by any gums.

He was a monster through and through and like S did not care to hide it behind any appearances.

"Ew!" Pompom shouted. "What did you do to him?" She asked, the comlink picking up her voice.

Even in an alien subspace, the comlinks still worked, transferring whosever voice it needed.

"They shattered his mortal coil." Psychic said. "It just makes harming him harder."

With Tricky back in the game the clones and lost souls returned, the horde of madness soldiers returning for bloodshed.

"If I could just bring him to MY WORLD. I'd show him true terror." S shouted. He vanished, returning to his 'strike-from-the-dark' method of killing.

They had an idea. Whether or not it was stupid, Boyfriend realized that was what he must do. Girlfriend agreed and, dumbfounded as to what their actual goal was they ran towards Tricky, Boyfriend wielding his microphone and Girlfriend a speaker box. Whatever they were planning you could barely make out them blasting music.

"If they get killed it'll be a net benefit. I don't care." Tabi muttered to you as you shouted to stop them. You would have argued by the presence of more Tricky clones, armed with stop signs was more pressing.

"AH!" Tess shouted as a knife flew by, jamming into her arm. Cutting some wires she lost feeling in her arm. Theo, witnessing it, ran to Tess. Still wearing rubber gloves, it allowed for him to touch the wires. He knelt down beside her. "Just a second dear." He said as he took the knife out and began fiddling with the circuitry.

While it was a good show of force the Carnival was fighting back with, it wasn't enough. There had to be some way to win.

With one final kick, Ruv knocked Legion into the scrap pile. As Ruv turned around, he missed Legion practically reform and charge him.

Landing in-between both of them was Sarventes, launching a barrage of magic beams against Legion. It forced him back. Taking the opportunity, Selever used his own magic to grab Legion and throw him into the Family. Better they deal with it.

Selever was at your side now, trying to get Displo's attention. "If we can't win this maybe we could hide in my void!"

"Even if we could, Tricky is immortal. We cannot outlast him. He must be stopped here." Updike replied.

"Yo!" Whitty said through the comlink. "If everyone could hide there I could detonate, killing him."

"It's not that easy." Solazar interjected.

"Why? Gonna shoot me again?"

"He's right. Tricky's stronger than whatever the hell you even are." Nikusa said icily.

"Geez, alright. Just a suggestion." Whitty said as he resumed his violence.

Somehow, Tricky was speaking(?) to Boyfriend. Or, judging from the incomprehensible grunts each assailant was emitting it appeared they were engaged in some sort of rap battle? There was little time to discern, Boyfriend still in harm's way. Psychic flew to him. Whatever the case it didn't last long as Boyfriend and Girlfriend there were launched back, Tricky having enough of their music.

Ace caught them, using his ice to give them somewhere to land. They got up, looking confused as to what to do next. Finally noticing them, Annie set her sights on them. "Y-You!" Annie screamed as her emotions got the better of her, the infection now rapidly spreading. She didn't care about the corruption, anger replacing the insanity. The two murderers were there now. "WHY DID YOU DO IT! WHY DID YOU KILL GARCELLO!?" She stormed towards them, a few of the Carnival member's unsure if to intervene or not.

"W-what?" Girlfriend asked, perplexed. "We didn't!"

"Y-you were there when he died! Y-You MURDERER!" Before Annie could swing, Hex grabbed her arm. "Not the time or the place!" He pleaded. "We have bigger issues!"

"Your arm!" Girlfriend noticed, nudging Boyfriend. "Beep! Boop!"

"Y-you did?" Annie asked. "F-fine. BUT I WANT TO KNOW WHAT WENT DOWN!"

Girlfriend nodded.

"Hey geniuses!" Rosie shouted in your direction. "Whatever you guys are planning hurry it up! Donnas and I are running low on ammo!"

You look around. Though temperaments were strong, the moment Tricky would start attacking would be the end of it. You silently thank the Family for distracting them.

"Is there no way we can get back?" You heard Aldryx ask.

"Wait, can't we go from Selever's void to Earth?" Sarventes asked through the comlink.

"Space-time doesn't work like that. That's not possible." Nikusa replied.

"Can't you phone home?" You heard Pompom ask Updike.

"I cannot reach my people now. And to get such weaponry to deal with a monster like this...Tricky being here is safer than outside on a rampage."

"Yeah at the expense of us!" Agoti shot back.

Now Playing...

Artist: Abyuse

Song: 8

Link: https://youtu.be/iD9YjAF-HBo

"I got it!" Nikku said as she ran to Displo and Updike. "Tricky is a transdimensional being. He powers this dimension so if we can get him out we'll be sent back!" While her voice was originally Tess' she was using a different one now, sounding more mature.

"Whoa! When did you get so intelligent?" S commented.

"When I remembered that I am the daughter of Matzushii and Incognimus." Nikku said with a smirk.

Nikusa laughed as she looked to Updike and Solazar. "You tellin' me I've been training Matzushii's child? That's hilarious. I couldn't of thought of a better joke." She looked to Solazar. "You knew?"

He shrugged. "I had no confirmation."

"Yes, yes. Sorry to burst your reunion but that is not possible. Tricky makes all the rules here. We can only leave when he says so." Updike said plainly. "And while our chances of survival are moderate we cannot win this by killing Tricky." Displo added.

"Can we get some assistance here!?" Theo shouted into the comlink. Still working on Tess he felt assailed by the horde, needing some backup as he finished up with Tess. No bots and only armed with a shovel there wasn't much he could do.

"Hm....?" S wondered as he looked at Theo. "Yo Theo. Stand still. Lemme try this." S didn't wait for an answer as he launched into Theo, transfiguring the man. Granted with eldritch powers it gave Theo a dark glow, himself appearing more monstrous as blood started to pour from his eyes, tentacles emerging out of his back. Despite the ghastly appearance he took and distortion now present in his voice he didn't act like it.

"This is remarkable, S! I feel like a young soldier again! Let's have at them!" Theo or S declared.

With the ability to fly, Theo felt like a superman as the shovel followed him, taking a mind of its own as it acted like a trident while he engaged in hand-to-hand combat with the horde.

"S-so what's the plan?" You ask.

"There are 3 ways of getting out of a void. We either kill Tricky, break out of the void or collapse it and have space-time correct us." Nikku said confidently. "I know we can't kill him. And only S is strong enough to break free but he can't bring everyone. So we need to collapse the void."

"W-Won't we die if the void collapses?" Tabi asked, knife currently jammed into one of the horde's heads.

"Shush." Nikusa said curtly. "We'll be fine. Space-time will just teleport us to the nearest point in the previous dimension, so the compound most likely."

Looking up top you see Tricky pointing at the crew, ordering his horde to attack harder. He started to slowly descend from his pile of garbage, ready for a true fight.

Either he was getting more angry or realizing your success. There were way too many dead bodies now, the place starting to turn into a mass grave.

A stop sign smashed onto the hoods of one of the cars. It was held by a lost soul, one with a distorted face, cross on it turned to scribbles. No eyes, the tufts of orange hair on the back indicated these were explicitly Tricky's own crew.

Armed with the baton you block one of the stop signs, Tabi jumping upon your shoulders, using you as a jump-off to slice through the clone above you.

Another one came forward, striking for Displo. Blocked by Nikku's magic, Displo grabbed a rock and smashed it, the fake clown slumping over on the car.

"We got you! Just keep planning!" Radi shouted as he started to hold them back, Aldryx plus the fusion of S and Theo working together. With Tricky on the ground, the four got ready for a showdown.

"I-I I'm not sure how I can-" Nikku said, motioning over you, Tabi, Updike, Displo and Solazar. Selever hung close by, focusing on using his own illusions to distract.

"I get what she means." Nikusa stepped in. "If we can force Tricky out of his void into another point in space-time, like another PU, this void will fade and force us back onto Earth."

Selever gulped, ideas forming in his head of how that could be done.

"Exactly! If we can get him to leave his void we will be able to get back home. Then we can prepare! It will take days before Tricky can come back but we'll be prepared. We send Tricky over a PU."

"A PU? What are you-" Tabi started to say but Nikku waved him quiet, bending down and then drawing something in the dirt.

She drew 5 squares, putting a circle in the leftmost then a star in the next square. "We are here." She pointed to the star. "We're in Tricky's void or parallel universe, PU. He powers this place either from here or home. If he's not in either then his void fades. We send him over one back...." Nikku paused.

"You do realize that isn't how that works?" Solazar said.

"I don't. I never learned cosmic science. Explain it for us." Updike said. Between the fighting and Tricky's screaming he still appeared calm. "What's to stop him from killing the void's owner and jumping-"

Nikku stopped him. "No. Solazar's right. Tricky being one void over isn't enough." Nikku said. She drew a second star in the next square.

"Do we even have a void?" You asked.

Selever hovered by, looking in the now-formed huddle. He sighed. "I-I could do that. Tricky would kill me but I'm not technically supposed to be here. I'm not born yet. Me and my sister. We could hold him off, for I don't know. A-A hour and get out when...well you know?"

"W-what?" Tabi asked.

"Don't worry Tabi." Updike said. "I recall your casefile. So you will have a way out if you do this?" He asked.

Selever nodded.

"Kid's right though. I give him maybe a hour before he's dead. And Tricky's only one space over. It's not enough." Nikusa said.

"W-well we'd need a second void then." Nikku interjected. Much as she felt confident, all this knowledge was still too new.

Tabi shrugged, one of the clowns getting his attention. Knife through where the stomach should be, Tabi sliced through, a stream of red flowing out of it. Killing them was different. Tabi had fought before and seen violence. Even before his transfiguration he was no stranger but when it came to killing those Tricky clones he felt nothing. It was like a routine, just something to do. There was no glory in these deaths.

Tabi looked to the centre. S + Theo, Aldryx and Radi were battling Tricky. Tricky had turned into 4 pieces. A large disembodied head, 2 disembodied hands, massive in their size and with claws, and a piercing red flame that surrounded him. The unholy fusion of S and Theo worked on the flame, speckles of black flickering throughout it. From where the fire was snuffed out, Radi hit with his nuclear fission, as did Aldryx oil and fire.

Tricky didn't appear to be in pain, though it was slowing his approach down. He kept screaming about Hank and how 'everything was wrong'. Confused, Aldryx rationed it that Tricky's own memory was wiped too.

In one fell swoop and a flying stop sign, Radi was flung back, hilt of the stop sign slashing across the fabric of his hoodie's neck. Protected by his armour, it stunned him. Aldryx grabbed him, running back with S and Theo retreating.

"You CHEATER!" A scream startled everyone, the huddle looking to the centre. Legion was back, YET AGAIN and was now engaged in battle with Tricky. Whatever the case, it appeared that the Family threw him back at the clown, the two again engaged in a battle. Tricky started to turn black, the possibility of Legion infecting him starting to happen.

"I'll do it." Nikusa said after a silence. "Me and Selever. We both have access to voids. We'll make the jump with Tricky."

"But he'll kill you." Tabi stated.

Nikusa chuckled. "Worried?"

Solazar eyed Nikusa, a curious look, eyes narrowing. "Why would you do that?"

"Don't worry about what I want. You got a problem I could back out, let Tricky kill you all."

"I don't get it." Displo said. "Tricky gets sent over two squares and his void disappears. This forces us back to Earth. But when he slays Selever and Nikusa their voids will collapse too. Won't he just be sent back to Earth? This will just lose us two allies and "

"I don't get it." Displo said. "Tricky will just kill Selever and Nikusa, come back into his void and then Earth. And you said that if the void collapses we just sent back. If any void collapses won't everyone just be sent back to Earth? We would be dealing with Tricky the moment we returned."

You stayed quiet during this, the very concept of QPUs, parallel universes and voids all too much. Not to mention you were still engaged in combat, emptying clips into the horde.

"PU alignment. Crap." Nikku said.

"Well Selever has a way out. He can survive and come back." Updike said. He looked to Nikusa. She smiled at him, saying nothing.

"Wait. Selever you got a way out! So your void will collapse and space-time will force you..." Nikku drew a circle at the end.

"If Selever's void collapses here." Nikku pointed to the circle. "Tricky won't be able to come back."

"What's the circle mean?" Displo asked.

Nikku took a deep breath. "QPUs, or actual realities are what you and I know as parallel universes. In space-time every 4 of these squares is a QPU. It's like..like, uh-"

"So that 'Earth' is basically like a D-Side to us, or Minus World?" Displo asked.

"Yes! We need to send Tricky over 3 PUs. That puts him on the D-Side or whatever you called it. If Selever's void collapses it forces Tricky into that world.-"

"And to do a full QPU jump would take decades!" Solazar added.

"The drive can only generate so much power! That has to be it!" Displo said.

Nikku looked at Nikusa who at first was perplexed, then smiled. "That's actually really smart kid."

"So just banish him to some other 'Earth'? That seems like a copout. Tricky will wipe them out." Updike said.

"I-I think I remember my mom saying worlds that close are often similar."

"Hmph. Then I suppose they might have a chance of beating him." Updike said.

"We would still need another being to complete the next jump." Solazar said.

"So, we'd need a third jump. How can we-"

"AH!" Theo shouted, returning to normal. He flew into the car, groaning in pain. S was gone...until he wasn't. In a blink he was on top of you, standing above, as you were on the ground.

"Don't even suggest it." S said as he stared at you. "I'M NOT GOING BACK IN THERE!" He shouted. S warped again, you and him both standing up now.

"S-" Nikku stepped forward, stopped by an unseen force.

S just growled. "YOU WON'T DO THIS TO ME AFTER ALL I'VE DONE!"

He stepped forward to you as you flinched back, unsure what was going on. You weren't even intending on suggesting S, much less even thinking of him at the moment. Everyone was just as surprised by the outburst as you. Tabi stepped forward, worried S would do something drastic. It didn't last long as he was forced back too.

"YOU AND ME."

Eyes black as they've ever been the red glow in his eyes was piercing. No blood dripped and he looked angry, pissed off.

Thinking on it, he was the only other one on the team you knew capable of 'void-travel'. He could have been the third.

"If it's a problem, S-" You found yourself suddenly unable to speak.

S pointed to you. "SILENCE. YOU AREN'T THE ONE I NEED TO HEAR."

"IF I DO THIS. YOU LET ME RIGHT BACK OUT. I DON'T CARE HOW YOU DO IT. I DID NOT ESCAPE FROM THAT PRISON JUST TO BE SENT BACK."

"I. WON'T. GO. BACK. THERE."

You take another step back. It was as if S was speaking through you. Glancing to the others, they looked worried. Looks of concern on everyone's faces. You try to nod but find yourself unable to move or even breath.

"WE GOT A DEAL?"

You look to Tabi, the goatman just as confused as you.

yes.

"GOOD."

S' expression changed to a more mild one. You nearly slump over, a rush of air hitting you as S let go. Tabi grabs you. You weren't sure what that was, unsure who even said yes.

"What the hell was that?" Tabi spat, angrily.

"I can use my void. ME. The kid. The void-queen. We can seal Tricky, do a QPU jump, we'll collapse MY VOID and lock him there." S' whole mannerisms changed, the violent display gone, replaced with strategic thought.

"Course if he builds up enough speed he can jump back but that'll take like a thousand years or something. By then, idk. Throw him into the sun or something."

"A-a-are you sure?" You ask, trembling slightly.

S snickered and looked up. "So long as the promise is kept."

"So this is it then?" Solazar asked.

"Don't make me change my mind Chaos." S chuckled.

Solazar nodded. "Thank you, S." Looking to Nikusa.

"We need some help over here! S!" Pompom shouted. With a nod, S vanished, going over to help the farm girl.

"Continue defending." Nikusa said. "We need to figure out the specifics. Make sure nothing gets to us."

"You go it." Tabi said, getting ready.

With a huddle, Displo, Updike, Selever, Solazar and Nikusa vanished. There was much to discuss, the plan almost set in motion.

Psychic joined you on your front. "That's a smart plan. I don't fully understand it but if you can defeat Tricky I will be most impressed. Even the Family believed he couldn't be defeated."

"Why are you even with the Family? You seem way more grounded them all."

"I have my reasons."

"Why are you even helping us?" Tabi asked. With what he knew about Psychic he didn't understand why this being was even her right now.

"I have an obligation to protect my Family and friends. Right now that means those two and Hex. The others have escaped and Mommy and Daddy can handle themselves."

Just doing it out of duty, you think. Which meant when this ended Psychic would become a threat again.

"Enough thinking. We need to help defend."

Annie's condition had only worsened, body now covered in a black energy. She had knocked Boyfriend aside and was struggling to control herself. Thanks to the horde she was more focused on killing them than dealing with anyone else.

Smiler, that strange axed wielding man was still front and centre, previously helping Huggy and now helping Retro. Smiler's axe, he learned was no ordinary axe and coupled with Retro's acid was boosted, the trollge slicing through them like butter. He'd taken quite a few bullets but ignored the pain, a sense of 'righting-wrongs' powering him. He continuously shouted about his daughter.

Annie, hacking away at the creatures.

Taking a break, Kapi and Huggy stayed back, Huggy with a full belly as he relaxed. Kapi looked around for something to wipe the blood off but with no clothes around just used his hoodie to wipe his face. He helped Theo to safety, helping him sit down.

With Annie on a killing spree, Carol went to work providing support for everyone, healing anyone injured and supporting where she could. Her magic felt limitless, a sense of righteousness boosting her. Sarv helped too, adding more magic to the mix. In the chaos she had learned Carol was an angel and now out of a sense of duty felt it necessary to put 110% in.

While the fight initially started intense things were slowing down, both on yours and Tricky's side. Whether or not he was being overwhelmed or not there were less monsters attacking now. The possibility of Tricky being unable to focus, focusing his attack on the Family or the monsters unable to form in the mass of dead bodies, could not be discerned. Whatever the case, everyone welcomed a slow down. Tricky was a foe that required everyone's' full attention.

You guess it was the bodies. Slaying the madness clones didn't cause them to disintegrate or anything, just slump over. This resulted in the battlefield becoming a graveyard with both sides starting to have trouble manoeuvring it all.

It didn't do much to calm your nerves, tired from all the night's events too. Much as you still didn't like them the Family's attack on Tricky distracted him enough that things could have gone much worse.

Seeing Tricky atop the tower you realize why the horde slowed down. Whatever was going on with Legion and Tricky looked bad, both somehow corrupting each other, hordes glitching out. Some even turned guns on themselves, taking an easier way out. A piercing rumble could be heard across the arena, like a rapid heartbeat.

With a warp back in, the "brains" of the team returned.

Displo wasted no time, addressing you directly.

"Alright, (Y/N). Take these." Displo handed you a series of long glowing blue chains. They felt light and cool to the touch, though also felt organic but hard at the same time. As if they shouldn't exist. Updike noticed your perplexity and answered. "We had Carol and Retro bless them from their own respective dominions. They are a contradiction but it should add to the resistance."

"Nikusa and I created them from solarisapien energy. Coupled with the blessings they should be able to hold him long enough to get him to focus." Solazar said.

"We shall distract the horde. You shall pick 4 people to go out and bind Tricky with these. With Legion and him engaged he is distracted enough."

"I'll cast an illusion of Hank after and well send him to my void first." Selever said. "Then the others."

"And hopefully we'll be sent back." Nikku concluded.

"Chains? You see how fast he moves, how can we even wrap him? And that fire will surely burn us." Tabi said, joining the conversation.

"We don't have time to explain. They're imbued with power, once they have a target they should just wrap. And if not, then well, Psychic can use his mind to do it once your close enough."

"Mhmm." Psychic replied.

With a scream, Tricky and Legion's abomination returned to the top of the tower. Judging by the lack of movement on the other side, the Family were defeated.

"You will all throw at the same time."

"(Y/N). Pick who will go with you. It will be dangerous. We need 4 people. Two for the head. One for each hand. One for Legion."

"Once bound, S, Selever and Nikusa will enter their voids and Tricky's shall collapse."

No time to argue for alternatives you accept Displo's proposal and get choosing.

Looking at the Carnival you already knew who would be coming.

Cauda 19 - Ultimate Showdown

"What's wrong? Scared?"

Now Playing...

Artist: Retromob [Melo Flamez]

Song: Level 99

Link: https://youtu.be/Rb0y8VeoGE4

While the horde may have been deadly, this was the true final test. You needed a team to bind Tricky. 4 people, Displo said. Looking at the Carnival you already knew who your picks would be.

Tabi was an instant choice. After all he'd been through with you he had to come.

"Even if we die, it will be among friends. I couldn't ask for anything less." Tabi said, shaking your hand.

You think on it. From a purely strength-based rapport, and one of the few still going hard you knew he needed to join. You didn't speak to him much but from Updike's own opinion of him, the guy wielded power.

"Whitty."

Whitty landed nearby. The X's in his eyes vanished as his sanity returned. Wiping bloodied hands on his pants he smirked. "Heh, recognizing my talent over weatherboy?"

Updike rolled his eyes. "If you perish it will make my job easier."

Whitty nudged Updike. "Hehe, you don't really mean that."

Updike shook his head and gave Whitty a huge pat on the back, nearly toppling him over. "...Give them hell, Whitmore. This is what you are built for after all."

You look to Tabi for the next person. "We need speed and accuracy." Tabi said. "Botan."

A sniper shot rang nearby as Botan got up. She fired one last shot before joining you and the others. She drew her sniper rifle, vanilla-coloured with sandy-camoflauge all over. Her eyes were still black, whatever S did to her still prevalent.

"Had a feeling I'd be helping you in the end. I don't really know this Tricky guy but from what I've seen he needs to be stopped."

"Pft. You just picked her cause you're a fan." Agoti said through the link. Tabi didn't respond, though was not fully wrong.

Botan chambered a bullet in the gun. "Let's do what we need to do."

You needed one last person. And you needed someone durable who would have no fears facing Legion. "I want that Smiler guy."

Something warped him over, the creature appearing in front of you. Covered in blood it added red to his black and grey personage. "I'll help. For my girl and store. Tell me what needs to be done." He said solemnly, axe still glowing from Retro's acid.

"We're gonna stop Tricky and Legion."

"Hmm? Aren't you forgetting someone?" An eldritch voice asked. It rung in your ears, like he was speaking within you.

"Aren't you sealing though?"

"I mean yeah, but..." S appeared above you. "Hell if I'm not gonna be front and centre for this last fight. I want another go at him. In fact, you solari's, let me do this." S looked up.

You hand the chains to the final party. Looking around, you still find it unbelievable this was just supposed to be a heist. A lot could've been improved but you felt proud you, nay, everyone made it this far.

"Hey, hold on a sec bozo!" Rosie said. "You're gonna need this." Rosie tossed a pistol at you. A bright pink colour, it had marbles etches of white flowers all over the weapon. It was her personal one.

"Thanks, Rosie."

She gave thumbs up before returning to her post.

There was a cheer from the Carnival as the group jumped over. It was just you, Botan, Tabi, Whitty, Smiler and S now.

For the first time since the battle begun, the Carnival entered the battlefield. Tricky saw this as a direct threat and came down, warping to you all.

He was different, Legion either attempting to overtake the clown or fusing with him. Suffice to say it got him distracted. Parts of his body appeared blackened, unknown if by stain or Legion. Most of all, his fire flickered between a red and black gradient. His lower jaw was gone and his eyes and hair glowed a bright red. Lacking the lower jaw, he appeared sad but still focused. He had a red halo atop his head now.

It was just your team and Tricky/Legion now.

Being closer to the centre you see the Family's state. Slaughtered hordes, demons and hellhounds all around. Daddy and Mommy looked tired but still able. Seeing you didn't mend their confusion, instead using your distraction as a way to flee. They ran to the side, going off somewhere behind the centre.

Now Playing...

Artist: Manabu Namiki

Song: Alien Class A - MEFE / MZMA

Link: https://youtu.be/eqlbbSBnfPQ

Tricky stopped, as did your team, S hovering above you. Tricky looked to still be confused, his mind awash from Pompom's spell and fending off Legion's apparent attempts at fusion.

As Tricky stood dripping in black his eyes settled on you. He snapped his fingers, an earthquake hitting the battlefield. Though your eyes were locked on Tricky's, Tabi looked back to see a re-energized horde show up, an unholy combination of madness dolls and trollge creatures attacking. They had a face now. What were previously dead bodies came back to life to, new energies powering them. Tabi also saw something leap forth into your team's battlefield.

A roar echoed across. At first you thought it was Tricky, the roar's owner making themselves known instantaneously instead.

Somehow making it past the Carnival leapt a monstrous quadruped creature. It stood on all fours like a panther. Covered in an inky black material you couldn't make out any specific details as it landed between you and Tricky. As large as a bear, she stood like a grizzly against the team.

A smile appeared on the creature's face, impossibly large under two soulless white eyes.

"Oh come on!" S shouted. "Can't we just end this?!"

A black forcefield emerged from the ground, cutting off your contact with the Carnival. Though visible behind the black sheen they were far too busy to help now. It was just you, S, Smiler, Botan, Whitty and Tabi.

Botan's first instinct was that Legion had returned though upon seeing red material on the beast's 'paws', realized who it belonged to.

"Annie."

She roared, mind no longer her own.

"I already got one of you. Let's do the rest~" Tricky/Legion's voice echoed in your head.

It looked as if the fight would held off.

"S!" Botan shouted. "Yeah, on it." S vanished, warping into Annie. A second later he re-appeared. "Yeah, no can do. She's too far gone. You guys fix Annie or whatever. I'll hold off Legion." S blinked, instantly appearing in front of Tricky/Legion. He took a deep breath, the eldritch god going for round 2.

"Crap." You realized the creature's origin's too, wide-eyed and cursing yourself that something hadn't been done about her infection earlier. With no time to spare, you command.

Annie looked at everyone conspicuously. There was hesitation in her actions, that while mauling was seconds away she recognized you all enough to stop.

You look to the others. "We can't kill her."

"I-I have seen this before!" Smiler said, trembling. "I think I can save her-"

Annie blindly charged into the group, hands developing claws that swiped, reaching for a death grip. Whitty and Tabi took charge, the two getting into football stances as they stood in her path. Strong arms around hers they tried to restrain her, both holding with all their might as Annie screamed, struggling.

"Just keep her still!" Smiler shouted. He put down his axe, running up to Annie.

Hind legs still kicking and pushing Whitty and Tabi, you and Botan run to them.

S' battle against Legion AND Tricky was yielding violence, indescribable sounds and violent pitches emerging from their struggle. Invisible to a regular eye they fought in dimensions unknown. You wondered why S was suddenly fairing much better against Tricky. Could it have been the confusion between them? You stumble as you feel something prick at your mind. Brief in feeling, you nearly fall over as you catch yourself.

Tricky/Legion blinked and for a brief second saw your mind. "HEY OUR FIGHT ISN'T OVER!" S shouted as you saw some of the black evaporate off Tricky. You weren't sure if it was because of S or not though you find out quickly.

Reforming out of the smoke, Legion stood, you stopping. The same long, gangly black appendages, claws and a perverted smile. "So that's your plan? Smart, but I won't let it happen. I'll sooner tear you apart piece by piece before. Tricky is mine. And together we shall fuse. You won't stop it."

A shockwave rocked S and Tricky's interlock, the eldritch god flying upwards. You weren't even thinking when you hit your comlink, the realization of Tricky now being free ringing. "SELEVER, WE NEED THE ILLUSION NOW!"

"HURRY UP!" Botan shouted as she got ahold of Annie's leg. She put a bullet in it, and while she didn't like it, it slowed Annie. Smiler was glowing, muttering something to Annie.

With Tricky back to normal his insanity returned. Coupled with Selever's illusion of Hank, a bandaged man with red goggles, Tricky charged it. Like a cat chasing a laser, Selever kept Hank moving, knowing it to bide time.

Legion warped to you. He was fully healed now, both eyes intact and body in one piece.

"It was a stupid plan." He said. You stare down the creature, suddenly feeling tired facing him, as if all the exhaustion finally caught up.

"Call him Arthur!" Displo said through the comlink.

"ARTHUR STOP!" You shout. Legion's smile briefly fades, a look of perplexity on his face. "Enough of that crap."

Not even thinking either, Tabi let go of Annie as he drew a pistol and fired at Legion. He cursed something in Russian.

The others let go of Annie as she writhed and leapt away, retreating temporarily. Legion's eyes turned to Tabi, Whitty, Botan and Smiler as his smile grew larger.

"I won't be sealed." He said calmly. Before you could draw Rosie's gun he was gone, warped to Tabi.

"I hate this world. Last one went down so much easier. This has just been a colossal waste of time."

Knife drawn, Tabi slashed at Legion, the trollge instantly dodging and grabbing Tabi's arm. Whitty too, flaming fists went for Legion's legs. The creature stepped back and slammed a spiky leg into Whitty's arm, firmly preventing movement.

"Coward!" You shouted as you ran to them.

Legion froze. "What did you just call me?" No answer prepared, Smiler acted first, grabbing his axe and jumping up, lodging the acid covered axe into Legion's back.

"Beep!" Boyfriend said through the comlink. He was easily distra- You silence your thoughts, "YEAH I CALLED YOU A COWARD!"

Legion let go to Tabi as he reached behind him to grab Smiler. "You stupid. Been nothing but a-" Tabi didn't waste a second, again grabbing his knife and Botan helping him up reached Legion's head. With a slash he decapitated the creature, blade cleaning through the paper-thin neck. It landed on the ground.

Legion's head laughed is melted into ink, a new head instantly growing. Feeling another shockwave you instinctively turn back as Botan fired off a shot at the new head.

S had taken to distracting Tricky, having detected Selever's magic running low. From the blast S was launched back. Like aiming for a football you dove and caught him, the eldritch hedgehog landing right in your arms.

"Wow, uh, thanks." He said sheepishly. With Tricky back in action again, S paged Selever to resume the illusion having given the kid some time to regenerate. Selever did, Tricky's attention turned to the red-goggled man shooting at him. He screamed, lunging for the fake Hank.

Another eye shot out, Legion laughed at Botan, lifting his leg and kicking Whitty into her. He ripped off Smiler and, tossing him aside, stared at the 3 as Whitty got up, ignoring the bloodied arm. Nothing Carol couldn't fix.

Legion's eyes settled on Botan, now noticing the black in her eyes. He saw S within her, coming to a different conclusion that what actually happened to her.

She was S' thrall now. S was corrupting them. He was going to go for Tricky himself,. Face flashing in fear for a second he turned back, seeing you holding S.

"What's wrong? Scared?" S said. Legion warped to Tricky, resuming the fusion. Tricky was HIS. NOT ANYONE ELSES. The forcefield flickered, Legion deciding it was better to speed this up.

With the battlefield open again, Boyfriend acted fast, microphone in hand he shouted to Annie, waiving his hands up. Psychic hovered next to him, ready to rescue Agent Blueballs if need be. Annie roared, eyes set on the blue-haired boy.

"We gotta wrap this up. I'm losing too much power. This whole 'i make the rules' thing is really startin' to piss me off." S spat.

With Legion still attempting to fuse and Tricky distracted by Hank the horde vanished.

Now Playing...

Artist: Defeatistchan & You Could Only See Eyes

Song: The Beast...[cont.]

Link: https://youtu.be/DLcXAHCkAEg

S cracked his knuckles. "Let's finish this."

S flew up first, smashing into Tricky/Legion. Hands out, Tricky stopped S, the two pushing against each other. "CHEATER!" S screamed.

As S held back Tricky you ordered the group to split up, Whitty going right, Botan going left, Smiler looping from the back and you and Tabi charging the centre.

Monsters came out from the ground, some of the dead bodies resurrected. Armed with Rosie's gun you fire off, downing several with headshots. Tabi, armed with his knife cut faces and stabbed through hands and heads. Not an ounce of his being was tired, he was determined and angry.

One of the lost souls, armed with a stop sign teleported in front, ready to bring it upon your head. One eye-blink, it was gone, turned into a red mist, S striking a pose in its place. You weren't sure how he appeared in two places but that was the least of your concerns. My goodness, it was good he's on your side.

Gunfire erupted from the side. Tabi had disarmed several of the monsters and was firing back, eyes burning brightly as he slaughtered. The chain was wrapped around his arm, ready to throw it out like a lasso.

"Alright. 'Nough of this." S warped out, letting go of Tricky. Selever took over, the fake Hank returning.

From the left, Botan jumped upon the fallen buildings, no scoping with her sniper rifle. Chain wrapped around the gun, it didn't obstruct her sight, not even needing to look as she fired. With Tricky next to the tower, she positioned herself to be able to throw the chain, ducking as she tried to make herself look invisible.

Any monsters that tried to encroach she fired upon, drawing a pistol from her hip. Occasionally magic would volt from the Carnival, she didn't see who was casting.

Whitty did however, seeing Carol's holy magic vaporize the lost souls as he ran up to them. Chain hanging around Whitty's neck, his fists exploded in a fury of flames, incinerating all who stood in his way. X's in his eyes, he was half-berserk but knew better than to explode. It wasn't Updike he was worried about but Solazar. That earlier lightning strike still hurt.

He heard Kapi and Hex cheering him from afar. From behind, Whitty heard a screech, one of the soldiers about to open fire. It stopped suddenly, Whitty turning back to see Updike standing there.

"I didn't-"

"I don't want you to upstage me."

"Well then let's go weatherboy!" Running together they made it to Tricky, Udpike using a thunder magic to slay the horde while Whitty burned them, turning some into bombs. They felt emboldened, as if it were a competition.

They all had support, even Smiler, the trollge creature feeling invincible. He wasn't sure what still powered him though couldn't even begin to understand what was going on. He knew the following. His daughter was back there. His television store was back there. He needed to save the world.

He was going to get his revenge from Legion. He heard Displo and Nikku cheering him on from behind, both playing into his insane view of the world. Axe in hand he swung upon anything daring to get in his way. Chain around the axe caused it to glow brightly, axe now imbued with solarisapien energy.

Everyone reached Tricky at the same time just as Tricky landed on the illusion. And in that instant, everyone threw their chains. They activated, Botan's chain first as it expanded and wrapped around Tricky's hand. He rose it, ready to bring it upon you, the chain stopping it. He started to freak out as he tried to break open. Whitty's chain came next, grabbing the other hand before it could pry open the bound one. Tricky screamed, an ear-splitting sound that stopped the horde.

Legion, now seeing the tides turning started to un-fuse from Tricky, emerging from the flame upon his back. Smiler threw his whole axe at Tricky, the chain unwrapping and binding Legion to Tricky. The trollge leader screamed as he tried to prevent the fusion, screams about the portal and not wanting to be sealed any longer.

You tried to ignore it, casting the final chains with Tabi at him. They expanded, binding around the head and halo as the flame started to die.

Tricky looked at you, his screaming stopping. Looking at him you swear he looked sad. You do nothing about that. With what you knew about Tricky there was no way you'd let him go free.

He thrashed about ballistically, unable to break the blue chains. The remaining horde S started to take out, moving as fast as the real Sonic. It didn't draw your attention, Tricky's red eyes taking up your and Tabi's visions. Like rubies of madness, you saw insanity for a brief second before Tricky fell over. What unholy creature this was.

As his eyes closed a shockwave forced everyone back. All of the lost souls faded, turning into dirt.

It took a second to catch your breathing as you hear cheering. Sitting on the ground, you looked back to see everyone running up.

It was done.

"We aren't out of the woods yet." Displo said as he reached you. He looked to Selever and Nikusa, beside him. S sighed as he joined them.

Cauda 20 - Torndown

"You will all face judgement."

Now Playing...

Artist: Steven Halpern

Link: https://youtu.be/MlyTca6uhMc

You took a few minutes just to catch your breath while the others began the next stage of the plan. Tricky writhed, the chains already creaking under his strength. You could feel the energy emanating from him. He was trying to break out and the longer everyone waited to seal him the sooner he would escape.

S, Selever and Nikusa agreed to 'sacrifice' themselves to seal Tricky. That's how you understood it. While not permanent it would have solved the problem long enough that it wouldn't matter. You heard Updike mention something about a recording, that he apparently recorded some message to the other world's inhabitants with proper instructions on how to beat Tricky. You got the feeling Updike didn't agree with the plan but couldn't argue against it. Other than dying there wasn't a way out of the void. He had no way of warning TGG or even getting the right weaponry right now.

He just hoped that the other world would be able to win.

Despite their apparent 'sacrifice' it was believed they could get out. Selever had to be 'born' (you still not fully understanding that either), S made a deal with...someone that he would be freed and Nikusa you weren't sure. You wondered if S could've just taken Nikusa or something. Regardless of everyone's chances of survival it still felt like goodbye.

It finally was time to end this.

"Is this really it?" Pompom asked S. She, Botan, Nikku, Kapi and Theo were all together, the four of them seeing the eldritch monster off.

"For me, yeah. But ehn, who knows. After I fix Mobius maybe I'll come back to visit. You stay in school now." S said as he shook Pompom's hand.

"Hey, S? Is this gonna be a problem?" Botan asked, pointing to her eyes. They were blackened, eldritch energy flowing through her.

"Yeah, it'll wear off. Just infected you to counteract that troll thing. Enjoy the powers while you have them."

Botan nodded.

Theo gave a bow. "S, it was a downright pleasure working with you. I may not fully understand what or who you are, but building your mechanical suit was the most fun I've had in decades. Should you ever need more tech; you know where to find me."

S nodded. "Y'know what yeah. I could always use a new Eggman. I'll be in touch old man."

"You really sure you're gonna be okay?" Nikku asked, concerned. S nodded. "I'll be fine. Can't wait to see what I can do when I'M in charge."

Nikku nodded. "I'll wait for you." She knelt down and hugged S. He was a little surprised at first, but hugged back, the blood from his eyes staining Nikku. "Y-you too." S stammered.

"S! Thank you. For everything-"

"Pft. Cut the crap...Sally. I'll be back out before you know it. AND when I do get back out, first thing we're doin' is goin' straight to Mobius. You got that?"

Nikku nodded. "We'll show' em true hell!" She said cheerily.

"That's my girl!" S shouted. "See ya soon!"

S looked to you. "And you."

"It's, uh, been fun." You say. Now facing S head-on you found yourself kind of intimidated. Even in the VR world it felt as if he was fake. With him standing in front of you, it finally felt real.

"Fun? Fine. I'll give you that. I've seen your ideals through. You're a murderer you know. Killed the chief. Practically killed the mayor. You feel like a villain yet? You've become the very evil you once sought to protect." S grinned widely.

You shook your head. "We did what he had to do."

"Ehn. It was worth a shot to see if you got corrupted. Thanks for getting me out of the VR world, I guess."

You nod and extend a hand out.

"Good luck man. Have fun on Mobius."

"Oh I will. I'm so done with this planet. You know what though? Yeah, this has been fun." S grabbed your hand as a sharp pain coursed your through body. Like pins and needles you seize up, recoiling from S' grasp. When he let go the pain instantly stopped.

"Hehe."

Seeing smoke on your hand you looked. On the back of your hand was a very simple design of a hedgehog, darker skin forming the outline.

"Just something for you to remember me by." S grinned. "I wasn't bound to you; you were bound TO ME. MUAHAAHAHAHHAA!"

A portal opened behind S, depicting the same twisted Mobian landscape you'd seen before. It glitched in the portal's view.

The chains cracked. "Yo Selly! It's time."

Selever nodded, casting the illusion of Hank in the fake Mobius. "See Trickster! Right there. There he is!" Selever said.

Tricky screamed, his attention on the red-goggled illusion. You heard Legion shout too, the trollge being unable to defuse, pulled along for the ride. With a kick of his shoes, S walked in the portal pulling Tricky with him.

Instinctively, you looked down, noticing that doll of Tails was gone. You wondered what S meant by those words but whatever the case, he was free now.

Selever hovered in front of Ruv. He'd already said it a few times though it didn't make it any less embarrassing. "You guys just gotta get together so me and sis can be born alright? Sick of always seeing you guys just holding hands. Be a man, dad!"

Ruv shook his head, cheeks burning. "B-but will you be the same?" Sarv asked.

"I'll keep the same memories, and hell if I don't you guys tell me, got that? I can't wait till I grow up. The four of us, we're gonna conquer the world. Lightbringers!"

Ruv and Sarv nodded, the two holding each other in a mix of shame and proudness at their 'eventual' son. The image on the portal changed to a pitch black void, screens floating in it. Selever fluttered into the portal, vanishing into it as well.

Around Nikusa were Tabi, Solazar, the Andromedas and Updike. You joined them, seeing her off.

She had a huge smile on her face, despite the apparent sombre tone he others had. She looked free, a perplexing expression given her predicament.

"Are you going to be okay?" Tabi asked again.

"Why, concerned are we?"

"Yes I am." Tabi blurted out. "He is a monster."

Nikusa laughed. Reaching up she took off her tiara and put it upon Tabi's hat. Despite the imbalance it stood still. "Oh, Tabi you softie. Don't worry about me. Just live a good life."

"Nikusa, thank you. Seriously. You're one of us, one of the Androm-" Aldryx started to say but she shushed him.

"Ugh. I don't like the sentimental crap. Shut up."

The portal's view changed slightly, now depicting a white void, patterns of floating islands depicting infinitely inside.

Solazar smirked. "I'll see you again, Nikusa." She bowed to him. "I wouldn't count on it~"

Nikusa started walk into it. With the turn of her head she gave one last look to you and Tabi.

"Take care of him for me, alright? Maybe I'll see you all another day...maybe not." She said to you with a wide smile on her face.

(attribution: https://www.deviantart.com/odaocer/art/1063451777 (art by Rawrmoona))

Tabi stood next to you, and for the second time this night you saw some smoke fizz from his eyes. He was crying.

The Andromedas too, though not crying were definitely depressed.

As soon as she stepped into the portal it slowly faded. Tabi clutched your arm as if he was trying to stop himself from running into it.

With a sigh, you watched as the red dirt, skies and haze lifts, replaced with a cool damp air. Everything grows dark as the night settles in. Taking a deep breath you could tell you were on Earth.

There were a few 'oohs' and 'ahs' as everyone looked around. This was the Compound. The fog had thinned and just on the horizon you could see the first vestiges of the sun. Morning was an hour away.

All the buildings of the compound were reduced to smouldering ash and rubble, nothing but a faint smoke and charred ground where they once stood. But as you look around, you notice no sounds present. It was silent.

Other noticed it first but you saw it on the smoke. It wasn't moving. You turn around. Like clockwork, the whole of IRIS and TGG's armies were there. Police too, no doubt. But still, no sound or movement. Judging by Tabi's sniffles you knew you weren't deaf. Something was still wrong.

Eyes adjusting to the moonlight and spotlights from cars and army you see another group present.

"YOU BASTARDS!" A voice screamed from the side. It grabbed everyone's attention. They all knew who it was.

Daddy Dearest.

You see him from afar, rolling up his sleeves as he ran towards you.

"YOU DID THIS DIDN'T YOU? YOU'RE DEAD! YOUR FAMILIES DEAD! EVERYONE YOU'VE EVER KNOWN. DEAD!!!!!" Mommy Mearest was right beside him with the surviving demons and hellhounds. She looked pissed as well.

Drawing Rosie's pistol you got ready for a fight. It was clear that even though they were heavily outnumbered they still would try to kill you.

Before Daddy could get close enough a red pillar of light shot from the ground, temporarily blinding everyone. In it you see one figure.

A second thereafter, another pillar, though not as bright. A second figure entered. Judging by the cane on one of them, the second person was Blackjack. You didn't immediately recognize the woman next to him.

As they warped into existence the light faded, allowing you to better see. Back turned to you, Blackjack and her were facing the Family.

Something about the woman seemed familiar, as if you'd seen her before. Hearing Tabi gasp quietly it hits you who she is, her identity scaring you on a spiritual level.

She had long flowing white hair that glowed under the moonlight. Atop her head were two white horns that poked out of the hair, a black crown in-between them.

Dressed like Blackjack she wore a black suit over a bright red dress shirt. Black dress pants as well, everything about her exuded class. Hanging out the back of her pants, a black tail, pointed that swayed as she looked at the Family, frozen and eyes wide at her appearance.

She held a glass of red wine with white gloves, the tint of the glass glowing as well.

"Tsk. Tsk. Tsk." She spoke.

With a snap of her fingers, an aura enveloped Mommy, Daddy, the demons and the hellhounds.

Psychic stood next to you. Though starring forward you heard him step forward. Looking, you saw a large hand on his shoulder stop him. Updike thought of something and Psychic read. Whatever the case he stopped, not intervening.

Updike knew exactly the woman standing there and couldn't believe it himself. He ordered Blackjack to inform hell. He wasn't expecting Blackjack bring her here.

Carol's eyes went wide too, recognizing the figure. A holy terror gripped her as she leaned into Whitty for support. Retro too, though more in joy. Though he knew better than to speak unsolicited in her presence, he really wanted to cheer.

"You two have a lot to answer for." The woman spoke. With command in her voice she sounded stern. Whether or not the Family wished to respond or simply couldn't from the magic you weren't sure.

They remained motionless.

"Kidnapping archdemons, destroying the TCF, unscheduled resurrections, unleashing untold horrors upon Earth and most of all, breaking out Tricky. Not to mention wasting my time dealing with you all."

Judging by the silence you realize that whatever this woman did, froze time. While the Carnival could move, everything outside this 'bubble' remained motionless.

The woman turned around, revealing glowing red eyes and a smug smile, pin of a sigil upon her chest. "I'm impressed a bunch of mortals could do something like that. What a show!" She took a sip of her wine.

Glancing at Carol and Retro she snickered. "Well, mostly mortals. Let's pretend I didn't see you alright?"

Carol nodded worryingly and Retro kneeled to her.

"Now then. We have a trial to go to. You will all face judgement." She said as she looked back at the Family. "Blackjack, stay and clean up, will you dear?"

"As you wish."

With a bright flash she and the Family vanished, leaving no indication they were ever here. Sounds flooded in as time resumed, people shouting, the sounds of sirens, helicopters and cars.

Blackjack walked up to the Carnival.

"D-Did we win?" Pompom asked.

"We did. Congratulations all." Blackjack said.

later....

Now Playing...

Artist: Gochar

Song: Chaire Rabi Bhai

Link: https://youtu.be/7b2hfZRq0LU

It was a long, hard fought night. You lost count of the amount of battles, violence and energy put into it. It was finally over and the Carnival came out victorious. Despite the end of the operation there was still work to do.

With IRIS, TGG forces and police all demanding to know what down it was chaos. Updike and Displo took charge commanding, ordering cleanups, research and more. In the chaos, Displo also protected Hex, several IRIS soldiers identifying him.

"He was a valuable member of this operation. Anyone can attest to it." Displo commanded. "Stand down!" Updike ordered.

They did so, several apologizing that they were not aware. Suffice to say, the city had a long night too. You heard it before you left as Sterling, one of the TGG trio, explaining that after Updike and co vanished, an earthquake rocked the city, taking out large parts of the power grid. When the Laughing Plan was initiated the Compound exploded rocking nearby buildings as well.

While previous operations were met with celebration and rapport, everyone was just tired and wanted to rest.

Before everyone left, Displo made it sure everyone was treated for both shock and physical wounds. Suffice to say, a lot of people didn't realize the injuries they sustained, you especially, having forgotten the slashes and gashes from the Daddy fight.

It was agreed to disperse for the night and meet at Rosie's during lunchtime where the money could be divvied up. You thought someone would've brought up that the money should be split first, but thinking back on it, nobody joined for the money. It was all for revenge, or to be helpful, or because they were roped into it.

Regardless of the outcome, you and Tabi went home and crashed instantly, sleeping in each other's embraces till the late hours of the morning. Even getting up at 10AM you still felt beat. You could only imagine how the others were feeling.

But, at smack 1:00PM, everyone was at Rosie's. She closed down the restaurant today, throwing a party for the group's success. Amelia and Tess helped the cooking as did Rosie and her Donnas. They pulled all the stops from pastries to cake to a full-course meal. It was a grande celebration, everyone still in awe they were not only able to pull it off but do it without any 'major' repercussions.

Only three of the members were in dire straits. Displo, while proud of the operation called it sloppy mentioning how underprepared everyone was, that Psychic caught everyone off guard, that Legion wrecked the data centre and so on. Most complaints were ignored. The Carnival had won. That's all anyone cared about.

The second was Smiler. Like the other trollge still around he was captured, everyone unsure of what to do with him. Just confused Updike ordered the guards to give him a spacious cell until they could figure out what to do with him, Displo noting that he should like to speak with the traumatized man later.

The other one in problems was Annie. Between the trollge energy overtaking her, S' eldritch injection, Smiler's attempt at redemption and Boyfriend's gamble of saving, her body took a beating. She had not woken up since the battle, currently being treated in a TGG infirmary. Though doctors predicted she should get better, many were worried she had slipped into a coma. For now, her future looked uncertain.

Despite the sheer amount of chaos that rocked the compound last night, IRIS and TGG managed to weave the story to their liking. While at the cafe, you had turned on the television, showing off the 'official story'.

Illegally, the Family had been researching eldritch, nuclear and alien technology. Using such power they planned to assassinate the mayor and police chief, ultimately taking over the city. Through their research they had resurrected Tricky, a violent being who rocked the city decades prior.

Ultimately the Family was thwarted by a coalition of agents from IRIS, TGG and a mercenary group known only as the Carnival. Though parts of the Family's plan were started, the 'resurrection' of Tricky was halted.

The coalition apparently knew of these events prior and spent months planning for "Operation Teardown", a simple surgical operation to enter the compound and destroy that technology.

In the ensuing chaos, The Family was successful in killing both the mayor and police chief of the city. Part of the plan was activated incorrectly, destroying the compound and causing massive electrical damage all over the city.

For fear of retaliation from 'Family-aligned' groups, identities of the Carnival were kept secret. The report also claimed they did not make the NCPD aware of this due to a belief they were working closely with the Family.

Mommy and Daddy were the only ones explicitly named in the report, stating that their children were not aware of the plan nor were they involved.

As a result, the prime minister of the country launched an official inquiry into the NCPD and issued a statement thanking the groups that worked together to stop this plan. The Family's remaining assets were seized and now subject for lawyers to distribute amongst the remaining children and determine what went to the City for damages.

As for the Mommy and Daddy's whereabouts, the report stated that they were killed in the fighting.

When all was said and done the deputy mayor of the city sent a bonus to all members of the Carnival, done so through TGG, thanking them for saving the city.

With Mommy and Daddy eliminated it allowed for people wronged by them to come out of the woodwork, the fallout from Teardown occupying the news cycle for the next few weeks.

Turning the TV off you look at the Carnival, everyone hanging out in the cafe, enjoying each other's company.

You still couldn't believe it. The amount of planning, coordination, determination and execution put into this group. There was so much that happened you didn't know where to even begin. Just starting at the beginning, everyone had their own story of how they were roped into the Carnival.

You did it all from entering VR to face an eldritch god to joining an anti-paranormal organization to falling in love with a Russian terrorist to joining your mortal enemy to battling Japanese idols in an arcade to facing down the scourge of the city himself.

You sigh.

It has been an intense few months.

You think back on what S first said.

"To see your ideals through."

Well they were seen through, and despite all you did, you still felt it was the right thing. Or maybe it wasn't. You shrug. Whatever the case, it was fun and the city was now a safer place. You got a partner and made a lot of friends too.

"You gonna join us or keep watching like a babushka?" Tabi asked as he walked up. Smile on his face, he was enjoying himself, holding a cup of what you assumed was beer.

"Hey, you ever think of changing your appearance back?" You ask out of the blue.

Tabi's eyes blinked for a second. "Geez, always with the hard questions. Let's just celebrate."

"Well I think you're pretty cool like that."

Tabi nodded. "You know what? I do to. Now get off your butt and join me and the others."

You nod, following Tabi.

Distribution of the money was the final part. The official story didn't indicate that anything was stolen from the Family. Nobody knew of the heist and those that did knew not to say anything.

You thought it would be challenging to launder the cash but there were more than a few people who could do that. Between Blackjack's arcade, Rosie's cafe to unlisted payrolls and rounding errors for IRIS/TGG it was trivial to distribute it.

All in all, from the gold bars and stolen objects from the vault plus the deputy's bonus every member of the Carnival netted a little under 100K each, any extra cash distributed to those that helped, such as Hex (though he stated he didn't need the money).

You rationalized it as your salary for taking down the Family, plus some hazard and overtime. Though not sending you to the riches the Family had, it was more than enough to cover your work.

And even then, the true payoff was revenge and you certainly got your share.

Though spirits were high most people knew the Carnival to be a one-off thing. Some, like Theo were a little saddened it was over but everyone understood it.

There wasn't anyone left to target. Newgrounds City had its fair share of power brokers and villains but none were as corrupt and violent as The Family. None that needed the kind of takedown the Carnival could hit and none that wronged as many people as they did. At the party you heard a few people discussing continuing it, though at a much smaller scale, with fewer members.

"So copper." Rosie said as she came up to you. "Gonna go back to beating innocent people?" She asked playfully.

You shook your head. "I think I'm done with police work, at least for the foreseeable future."

"You gonna stay workin' here?"

You smirk. "Probably not. It's been a blast but I don't see myself doing this for much longer either."

"Ehn. Figured as much. You clash horribly with the decoration. Well if you ever want a job doin' security or even helping my Donnas, the offer is there. But you're gonna wear pink, alright?"

"Thanks."

"Oh, and give me back my gun. That wasn't yours to keep."

No doubt the Family's disappearance would cause a power vacuum but you just couldn't see one single group taking it all over. They were too decentralized, too deep into specific industries. There was nobody who could fill that void as well as the Family did.

With a round of thank you's and everyone exchanging information, the Carnival was deemed complete. While it was officially disbanded you knew you'd see the others occasionally. You even heard a few discussing the prospects of other heists or even becoming some sort of elite taskforce dealing with that. You caught Theo and Radi giggling with each other about it, the two apparently wanting more.

There was still a bit of sadness going around regarding those that were lost. Annie, Nikusa, Selever and S.

Nikusa's sacrifice perplexed you the most. Nikusa did a heroic thing. That was fine. But she kept playing at she knew something you all didn't. It made Tabi emotional so you avoided asking.

At the party you asked Solazar who just grinned.

"You think she's really, you know...gone?"

"I suspect Nikusa will be fine, though I presume that may be the last you, Tabi and my boys will ever see of her. She's always been a prickly one. Perhaps she realized how "entrenched" she was getting in the Carnival and saw a way out. Let me put it this way. If you invited her to a party she would vanish in the midst of it. That's just who she is. Secretive. Holds all the cards." Solazar said.

"Take her last words to heart. Take care of that man." Solazar said, pointing to Tabi.

You weren't sure what you could do now. You were free...at least until that very night.

Since dinner, Tabi had been kind of quiet. It was as if he wanted to ask you something but couldn't. Even at dinner he kept trying to dodge the topic, as if you were making any attempt to get it out of him. He was cute when he was like this. Even after all this time spent together, he still acted as if you would leave on a whim.

Your first guess was the bloodlust. He beat the Family but wanted more. He thirsted for violence. But then Agoti shot you a text, straight up asking you what Tabi had on his mind. Figuring Tabi was working up the courage you ignored his text, waiting for Tabi to make the move, waiting for-

"(Y/N). Can I ask you something?" He asked.

You and he were seated on the couch watching some movie play. It had become a daily thing, just cuddling and hanging out, even if you weren't paying that much attention to the movie.

"What's up?"

Even though it was well into summer, it was still cool at night, Tabi taking it as an excuse to sit closely to you.

"It's about the future."

There it is.

"Why are you smirking like that?" Tabi asked, figuring you knew something.

"Nothing. Just what's up?"

"Alright." Tabi cleared his throat. "The Andromedas and I. We're going on tour in a week. It's gonna last months and well, we uh-"

"Go on~"

"We need, I need, we could use, uh, Can you come with me? As my bodyguard, or in charge of security. Or I could train you in pyro-Gah! You know what I mean. You coming or not?"

It was the same thing Agoti spoiled. You didn't want to piss Tabi off so you kept that detail secret.

"Of course I would. We'll pack our bags first thing tomorrow."

Tabi grabbed you, pulling into a hug. He held tight. Even though his bones were visible, his skin was still there, and even in the fluff his hoodie it felt nice.

"Bro, what did you think I was gonna say no? Me and you man, unstoppable."

"Thanks for everything, (Y/N)."

"Hey don't get all sentimental on me. We got time for that later~"

Cauda 21 - Loose Ends

"Are others at least okay?"

Meanwhile on another world..

TGG headquarters, the Trio's Room. The Roadshow had been called to an emergency meeting. Operation Takedown, the final operation against the Tankmen was placed on immediate hold.

Too early in the morning for most people you weren't surprised only a handful actually showed up. Course nobody wanted to come either but the leader of TGG was frantic that a meeting be called. Whatever it was, he sounded worried. You looked around at who actually showed up.

Nikusa, the solarisapien record exec and mother of the Andromedas was present, as was her nemesis, Solazar, the void king. Garcello was present too, chewing on tobacco. He knew better than to smoke at TGG. It pissed Whitmore of to no end. Hat down you could hardly tell if he was actually awake. Hex, the second member of the team and IRIS' representative was there, appearing worried as well. Pompom, the graffiti artist along with her 'pet', Kissy Missy had shown up too. Tabi was absent, the ramwoman drunk off the wine and bottles of scotch you had with her. You felt a little groggy.

Aside from the leader of TGG, one of the trio showed up as well. Though they were part of the team like anyone else you still weren't 100% trusting of them yet. At least they had helped the team immensely.

"Sorry to keep you all waiting. I know not everyone is here but we will reconvene at Tess's tomorrow lunchtime." The TGG leader said.

You turned as he walked in. Buff as always and hands behind his back he walked with absolute authority. He had a bomb for a head which perhaps explained his impressive patience. You didn't want to see it go off. He was called Whitmore, one of the trio of The Greater Good. Next to him, also dressed in a white suit was Carol, his significant other and member of the trio. As soon as they two other stragglers emerged.

"Yeah, yeah. What's so worrying?" MX said, popping up in his hologram. The eldritch plumber didn't look too happy, probably interrupted while watching Mushroom Kingdom news.

"Sorry I'm late." A raucous voice said, no apologetic tone in his voice at all. You knew who it was, a rambunctious 'destroyer' (as Whitmore had called him), Updike, the thunderous weatherboy. He didn't acknowledge Whitmore so much as sideways glance.

"Yes, yes. We'll skip introductions." Whitmore said. "I'm sure you're all aware of the recent explosion over the Newgrounds Bay."

You were aware, hearing it both on the news and it real life. Something crash-landed in the bay, causing almost a tsunami to rock the city. You could have sworn you felt an earthquake too. It happened in the wee hours, sometime after 2:00AM, only a few hours ago.

"I'll keep it brief. The explosion was caused by a universal anomaly. Something has entered our world." Whitmore said gravely.

"Two beings officially, though last we checked one was trying to overtake one of the others." Carol said. "They were falling towards the Dearest Family's estate when they flew off course, landing in the lake. We've been in contact with the Family. They are rattled buy okay."

"So what?" MX asked. "Meteors fall all the time who cares?"

"Meteorite." Pompom clarified. MX shrugged in annoyance.

"Whatever. They're probably just some aliens. I ask again, who cares?"

"These two beings aren't alien. They're origin is from this city. Just not the city you are all familiar with."

"Aside from the beings, something else actually crashed into the compound. This." Whitmore held up a smartphone.

MX shrugged.

"A phone." You stated, unsure where this was going.

"It's a TGG phone, though not from our world. We extracted the data on it, finding one particular video addressed to us. If you will." Whitmore turned around as the TESLAS computer projected a screen in front of everyone at the table. MX materialized a bag of popcorn as he watched.

The video, though not terribly long was extremely confusing though at the same time worrying. You understood why Hex looked so rattled.

Holding the phone as a selfie it showed a way more buff and professional version of Updike. Around him were Displo, that fugitive robot wanted by IRIS, a lewdly dressed Nikusa, a professional looking Solazar and Selever, that demon from the Lightbringers. While you were confused first what they spoke of only confused you more.

The part that trumped you was that Updike identified himself as a member of the triumvirate, Displo a member of IRIS and Solazar as the father of the Andromedas. They explained gravely about how in their world, the Dearest Family revived Tricky and were planning on taking over the city. They argued that the Family took out the TCF as well, using trollge energy to power him as well as kidnapped demons. They explained how they were not equipped to deal with Tricky because they were trapped in his void. Displo stated that through 'universe-traversal' and 'QPUs' (terms you didn't fully understand) that they would send Tricky (and some other creature called Legion) to your world, hoping the other TGG would be able to take him out. The alternate Updike listed off a few weapons and project names he stated only the trio would understand. Judging by Whitmore's nod he knew exactly what that Updike was speaking of.

The said in their world Tricky was a violent murderer and a key player in the Madness Wars. You didn't need any further explanation, those wars nearly destroyed the city. Those images were burned into your mind. Though you knew Tricky to not be a monster. He was the one who slew Hank and vanished after. Hank was the one who slew hundreds in those battles, not Tricky. You figured that just like Updike and Whitmore, things were different in that world.

They identified themselves as members of a group called The Carnival, a crew of people wronged by The Family, who planned to take them down. It concluded with Updike apologizing, that under any other circumstances he could have eradicated Tricky.

"We could not have predicted this outcome. And if this world is as similar to ours then I must warn you The Family is doing this right as you hear us."

Suffice to say it left you shocked, as did many of the others. Nobody had any words to say, everyone just as confused as you.

Finally, after a silence, MX spoke up. "Kinda a copout to just send it here. Like it's our problem."

"Indeed." Whitmore said. I don't know how that iteration of TGG works but we do not deal with parallel universes. We have enough aversions in this world. We don't need any more running around. I'm not quite impressed by this act by that world's TGG." Whitmore said, shooting Updike a dirty look.

Updike glared at him. "Yeah, well, it's our problem now. What are we gonna do about it?"

"That world has clear parallels to us." Carol said. "They are the Carnival, we are the Roadshow. As strange as it is, Updike is a leader of TGG and Whitty is probably the vagabond."

"That mean we're together?" Updike asked jokingly.

Carol ignored the comment.

"We're putting the operation on hold until Tricky and Legion are dealt with. The Dearest Family will be assisting us." Whitmore said. "Thanks to that Updike I know exactly how to beat Tricky. Legion will be a big tougher but if they are correct in his fusion killing Tricky should slay Legion. Worst case scenario it, Girlfriend was an agent for TCF. She will know how to deal with Legion."

"With what we have from NEXUS we have begun preparing a weapon." Carol added.

"Uhh did you hear them? The Family is the one 'building' that Tricky guy." Pompom said flatly.

"No. If the parallels are to be followed then it's the Tankmen who are planning on reviving Tricky and destroyed the TCF. It would certainly answer why they are consuming so much electricity daily. We must work fast." Whitmore said.

Hex spoke up. "We have the advantage currently. We already know Legion can read minds and already have access to NEXUS research. I believe we will be able to handle them accordingly." He still looked rattled but you attributed that to Displo being the 'IRIS-person'. He was clearly disturbed by the implication he was an enemy of IRIS in that other world.

"Sure, whatever. I can take him." MX said as he brought up Tricky's NEXUS report. "Guy can't even pull off red correctly."

"Simply put, Operation Takedown will no longer be a simple heist. It will be a war. Is everyone okay with that?"

Nobody had any objections.

Meanwhile at The Dearest Compound...

"Aha!" Someone shouted as the hellfire retreated from their vision. It took longer than she hoped but she finally got out of hell. So much attention on hell's gates made escape especially challenging.

Brushing her hair aside she looked around at the compound, smile replaced by perplexity as she saw ruins and police tape everywhere. "What the hell happened?" She shouted. Not a sign of anyone around the compound it looked abandoned. Several flood lights were scattered about the place lighting up various parts of the destroyed buildings and scraps.

"Cassandra." A voice rang in her head. She knew the owner instantly. "Psychic? Where are you?" Cassandra looked around. Middle of the night and her eyes still adjusting she couldn't see him anywhere.

"Here." Psychic said from behind her. She turned back, seeing him standing there, glowing a faint purple as he stood across the street.

"What happened? Where is everyone?" She asked, walking to him.

"Your mother and father are gone. On trial for the Laughing Plan. Your brother is staying with your older sister and Girlfriend is staying with Boyfriend."

"What about you?" She asked.

"My situation is guardian to what remains of this Family. I am currently getting the Family's cottage up in Devian operational. We will be going to see your older sister. Her apartment is our currently living quarters."

Cassandra sighed. "Are others at least okay?"

"Yes. They all escaped Lucifer's wrath as did I."

"Well...Mom and Dad had it coming. We can rebuild. C'mon. Let's go."

"Indeed." Psychic said as the two warped away.

Meanwhile across the world...

Tokyo.

Tabi really wasn't kidding when he said a tour. You didn't think you'd be leaving the country, let alone heading to Japan. Yet here you were in a city of flashy lights and glamorous architecture unique to its mountainous landscape.

With shows and security taking up yours, Tabi's and the Andromedas time there wasn't a chance to take it easy. Of course there hadn't been any attacks or anything to worry about but you took the job seriously. Tabi was yours to protect anyway. Though, being in charge of security also allowed you to mess with their schedules. So, as a fun break you reached out to the only Japanese member of the Carnival for a small rematch between your company and hers. Shishiro Botan. The Andromedas and Tabi were up for it of course, Solazar condoning it so long as everyone returned to their hotel rooms at a reasonable hour. Even though he tried to hide it you could tell Tabi was giddy about the meeting.

With a rented out arcade you found yourself surrounded by cabinets and pachinko machines, sounds blaring all around.

You saw Botan and that shark girl from the fight engaged in some kind of co-operative shooting game, each holding massive plastic guns. Judging by the large game over displayed on the screen they had lost. Seeing you, Botan waved, walking up to you, Tabi and Agoti. Aldryx had already gotten elsewhere, the red digidevil remarking that he wanted to try some driving games.

"Hey all!" Botan said cheerily. She looked to Tabi, grinning slyly.

"Почему, если это не мой любимый российский фанат?"

Tabi's eyes lit up.

"W-wha-?"

"Hehe, Удивлен? Я немного выучил русский язык." Botan said in a rough accent. "Ровно столько, чтобы отбросить разговоры, когда я выиграю это дело."

Tabi beamed, jaw hanging slightly open.

"Well? How's my Russian?" Botan asked. "Good, dah?"

Tabi squeaked, possibly the cutest thing you'd ever heard or seen. Agoti burst out laughing and in 2 seconds flat, Tabi had his knife drawn, practically ready to gut the digidevil.

Meanwhile in an TGG prison...

"That's about all the tests I can run." Aurora said. A pink cloud-like scientist, she wore a labcoat and stethoscope, holding a clipboard as she scratched off the last checkbox.

Sitting on a patient bed was a gangly creature, normal height though his limbs were as thin and narrow as sticks and only defined a basic shape, as if drawn from memory. His most defining feature was a chalk-white face with white eyes, though the rest of his face looked normal. Right now he looked depressed, Aurora's news not hitting him well.

The patient had already read over his case file though felt no connection to the person described in it. He knew his name as Smiler, or 23. That was it.

He felt odd, unfulfilled but despite the assurance that his 'daughter' was fine. He wasn't sure what was next. His only possession, an axe was lost in the final battle against Tricky.

Theo and Displo were present, standing nearby. Though this was Displo's case, the restauranteur decided that Theo would be best to tag along.

"Well, alas it's not so bad. Many would kill just to still be breathing." Theo said hopefully.

"What does it say about his physiology?" Displo asked.

"Compared to TCF reports and even TGG's own stats his makeup is extremely unusual. Trollge's, depending on their stage usually hover upwards of 70-90% trollge, the rest human. But this case, er, Smiler sits at..." Aurora paused. "He's about 54% trollge, and 45% human. Based on these TCF reports his original makeup was 68/32, low for a trollge. However now his make up 47% human, 41% trollge and 12% eldritch. He's still very corrupted, though his human-side is now the most dominant."

"H-how?" Smiler asked. Prior to the appointment Displo tried to explain to Smiler just what he was. The being was thoroughly confused about it though understood that whoever he may have been, was long gone.

"How could that be?" Displo asked. It made no sense to him.

"Perhaps, if I may," Theo said. "But according to how the battle was described to me Smiler was dying, correct? And then S attacked him."

"That's right. S interrupted the ascension. Said something about ascending not being fair."

"Then could S not have corrupted Smiler himself?" Theo asked.

"Hm. That is possible." Aurora said, shrugging. "He went 'off-script'. He is still a trollge, though a new form."

"So..." Smiler said solemnly. "I'm stuck here..?"

"It seems so." Aurora said.

"Well, it's not so bad." Theo said. "The sun's bright out, you sharp as an axe and from what I've heard you are durable as steel."

Smiler continued to look down.

"Yeah..." Aurora looked at the notes. "I'm reading it here. All the trollges that ascended were way more trollge than human. Hmm. Based on these I assume that the 'ascension process' is when they're trollge energy leaves and since their all trollge it allows them to 'pass on'. When it was interrupted it must have been replaced with eldritch."

"What am I supposed to do now?" Smiler asked, gaze still downcast. "My daughter's gone, my store's gone. I can't remember anything prior to this anymore. I don't have anything...Am I immortal?"

"Not likely." Aurora said. "You're more human than the others. And since you ascended, I guess you'll just get more human and age naturally. Or perhaps you'll gain more trollge energy and be able to ascend. This is all new to me."

"Well you are not leaving TGG or IRIS custody." Displo said. "We'll at least keep you safe until we can figure out...how to ascend you, I guess."

"Displo, if I may have a word with you?" Theo asked.

"Yes, Theo." The two walked outside the room.

"I should wish to try and rehabilitate this being." Theo said.

"You do?"

"Yes. I've read his case file and he reminds me of my own path, albeit minus the dark energy. He is lost right now. Can he be released to my care?"

Displo shook his head. "No. Caring for a being like 23 would require upmost discipline...But I will arrange a weekly, or daily meeting with him for you. I believe it should work better this way."

"Very good. I sympathize with this Smiler fellow. I should like to help him pick up the pieces."

"Thank you. Him facing S was a terrible idea which doomed him. If you can put him back together you'll give peace to a grieving father."

Theo nodded and shook Displo's hand.

Meanwhile in the TGG prison...(and sometime later)

Static couldn't shake the feeling he shouldn't be here. Nothing about this felt safe. Sure his uncle walked beside him and sure they were surrounded by armed guards but he still felt in danger.

As they passed by cells containing various abominations, demons and other strange creatures he could feel them staring at him. He preferred not to imagine what they were thinking about. He only agreed to this for the clout, that he could boast to the kids on the schoolyard that he entered a prison. At the time he didn't think it would be this. Thinking back he should have trusted his instinct when his uncle practically jumped at the opportunity to show him, something Displo had not done prior.

Displo already explained to him the task. They were to meet some prisoner and Static was expected to play along with whatever the prisoner said. He had a script he was expected to follow. He asked Displo what was supposed to happen to which Displo just replied, "I am not sure myself." Aside from that he didn't know a single thing about the prisoner.

Just play along. Displo said.

After too many cells to count, Displo, Static and the armed entourage reached a single cell. On its own, the cells adjacent weren't lit, unoccupied for the time being.

"Here we are." Displo said calmly. He waved the guards aside as the entourage dispersed, standing far away from the two. Static looked inside, seeing what he first thought was a circus. The walls were projecting a hologram of a fairground: white and red striped tents, an elephant with garb upon its back, a ring toss attraction and boardwalk flooring. There was a balloon cart present, currently powered off. Like the rest of the cells a blue forcefield was present, separating the inside and out.

In the centre of the enclosure sat a clown, head downcast and staring at the ground. In direct contrast to the rest of the cell, he was in downright horrible shape. Torn white shirt stained green and black, suspenders that looked seconds away from ripping, a previously red bowtie that was half undone and two tufts of hair that were a hazy brown, red at one point.

Introduce yourself. Displo messaged Static. Don't worry he cannot harm you. He took a step back from the boy. This was his mission.

Static gulped and stepped forward. "H-Hi?"

The clown instantly sprung to life, looking and jumping up in one motion. He was instantly upright, showing off black holes that once contained his eyes, dull red (now brown) clown nose and most visibly, a smile that stretched his face past the realm of physical possibility.

Static saw a fire in his eyes light up briefly as he took stock of Static and Displo. In a bout of courage, Static puffed his chest up. A theory started to creep that Displo agreed to this to scare him, probably convince him that IRIS wasn't all secret agents. Feeling that way, Static felt to show courage and prove his uncle wrong.

By the scant reactions from both Static and Displo, the clown's smile changed to worry.

JJ, or Case 76, Displo messaged Static.

"Ah! I'm sorry! I didn't mean to! I-I didn't scare you, did I?" JJ asked, trembling. He rubbed his side with a clawed hand, Static now noticing it had been bandaged up.

"N-no." Static said.

"Y-you." JJ said, taking note of Displo. Static saw the clown's eyes light up again, and Displo not react.

"W-why? Why aren't you scared?"

"Perhaps I am a child at heart." Displo said. "Nevermind me. Your focus should be on this boy. I've brought him so that you may save him from the corruption you so claim I have."

JJ's eyes went wide as he looked at the two. "W-well then listen to me! B-both of you!" JJ shouted.

What JJ spoke of only confused Static more. He spoke at length of corruption, that Displo was a bad person, responsible for corrupting youth. He spoke about all adults, how they were evil, that he alone was one of the few people capable of stopping it. Static just nodded and listened, not having any viable response. He seemed frantic in his explanation, Static picking up clear contradictions within it. Several times he saw JJ glare at Displo, distrusting the agent.

"Well, you, uh do seem kind of scary. Maybe that's why they don't listen to you?" Static asked.

"There was a girl. She almost believed me. Even stopped all the adults but then they corrupted her. I accidentally scared her. She was so innocent. L-like you."

"That girl is in good care." Displo added. "I personally over saw her recovery." Displo said.

"Then please. Tell her I am sorry. I never meant it. I-I was panicking."

"I will." Displo lied, knowing it would be better of Pompom wasn't reminded of that specific event.

Static felt a little uneasy at the 'innocent' statement, but following what Displo said, played along. "I don't think I'll be corrupted. I mean, at school, me and my friends, we're unstoppable. Why our leader is planning to steal the exam answers next semester. We've already started planning it."

Figuring that Displo didn't stop him yet he continued.

"We have a whole crew. I mean, it's me, a scarecrow, a monkey dog and my best friend and her pet macaron. We're so excited for September. We're gonna rule that school! We're so gonna go against the teachers." He said cheerily. "There's even this factory we're gonna break into."

Static continued on, speaking high praise about his friends and school. JJ said nothing, smile shortening to more conventional lengths. He listened in depth, not saying a word as Static gloated.

With Pompom on his mind, Static spoke about Operation Teardown, not a clue JJ was a combatant then. Eventually JJ clued into it and while not mentioning his role seemed ecstatic when he heard about the crew's victory against the "tallman". He was in disbelief at first but as Static explained it he realized Static spoke of the truth. The kid had no reason to lie.

"Such a child's imagination. Always the best storytellers." JJ said happily.

Static concluded, speaking about his plans for the summer, and how he wanted to be just like his uncle.

"No!" JJ said, bashful at first. "S-sorry. I mean you need to be your own person! You aren't like the rest. You need to be your own." JJ said.

Static shrugged. "You think so?"

"You can't be like the other adults. Don't get corrupted." JJ looked to Displo. "And and you aren't like the rest but he's gotta be his own!" JJ pleaded.

"I leave the choice to him." Displo replied.

"Alright. I will." Static nodded. "You're pretty cool JJ."

JJ's smile shortened, narrowing from impossibly large to a normal, plain smile. The clown started to flicker.

"Kid. You've made my day. You won't be like the rest of them. I know it....Wait!" JJ got up and grabbed his balloon cart. Moving more than Static had seen him yet he turned it on and started feeding material into it. It whirred to life as it started producing balloons. JJ got to work immediately, grabbing several and twisting it.

From behind Static, Displo nodded to the nearby officers. With a flick of the switch the forcefield fell, all guards ready to open fire from the darkness if things went south.

Static watched as JJ's hands worked, creating a shape out of balloons, blowing some up as the kart blew up others. He worked fast, the rate of JJ's flickering increasing by the second.

With a heave, JJ shut the machine off, revealing a creation. A balloon version of Static, all made with red balloons.

"Wow!" Static said.

JJ walked out of the cell as the guards cocked their weapons. "Here you go!" He handed Static the life-size replica of himself.

"Don't be corrupted. You got that?" JJ said as he patted Static on the head. Static looked at the replica, in awe that JJ was able to make something so quickly. "JJ this is so cool-" Static looked up, the clown that had been patting him gone, nothing but an empty cell.

"H-huh?"

"Remarkable." Displo said.

"W-what was that?" Static asked. He looked, the balloon cart and replica gone as well, fading as JJ did.

"That. That was a trollge ascension, Static. I cannot believe I finally got to witness it. Simply remarkable."

Static just felt even more confused.

Meanwhile in the Flashpoint Arcade...

With loud sounds blaring, arcade machines beeping and the flashy lights surrounding them all it was a wonder they could hear each other. Even though it was quieter in the lounge such sounds make the tapestry of the Flashpoint Arcade. Blackjack was around, though not currently walking the floor. Kapi had barely seen him the past few weeks, the demon busy with the trial in hell. He'd already gotten Kapi and Whitty to give testimony to some investigators. Blackjack was convinced Mommy and Daddy were screwed.

Though a busy summer night the lounge remained lax on people. A party had accumulated in the centre, them having to move a few tables and couches together. Going clockwise was Hex, Boyfriend, Girlfriend, Whitty, Kapi, Connor and Loki. The latter three had already been reunited and exchanged stories. For now they just wanted to hang out. Each had their own drinks in hand, Hex holding a microphone as he liked to.

"We were just supposed to set up relays, find Retro and if there was time to help the others." Kapi finished explaining to an irate Hex. "Then we ran into Psychic and well, things went south."

"Hmph. Well if someone had invited me I could've warned you. He probably could've helped us."

"Beep!" Boyfriend agreed.

"Bro no way." Whitty said. "That dude was psycho."

"Aw, c'mon, he's not so bad." Girlfriend added.

"He mind controlled me! Twice!" Kapi protested.

"Yeah but he was just being cautious. You did blow up the church."

"Heh, that was fun." Whitty grinned.

"Bebeop."

"Yeah, yeah." Whitty waved. "Hey I wasn't against you guys joining. That was all Tabi."

Girlfriend sighed. "I still feel bad about him. I never knew Daddy would do that to him."

"Beep..."

"True, but last I heard he's doing a lot better. Hardly the same person apparently." Whitty said.

Connor cleared his throat, wishing to speak. He hadn't changed a lick since his left for Apollo. To him the trip was an impromptu vacation, also having to deal occasionally with assassins.

"You guys worried about any other enemies coming up? I mean shoot, I even wanted a go at your old man."

"I think we'll be fine." Girlfriend smiled.

"Argh. I still can't believe you didn't tell me!" Hex pouted.

Loki laughed. He already knew of all of Kapi's feats and was glad he wasn't involved. I mean, fighting clowns, getting brainwashed, assassins?! He preferred that kind of stuff in video games only.

"Well at least IRIS isn't going after me anymore. It feels nice to be free. Displo even reached out me the other day, asked if I wanted to join." Hex said.

"Beep?!"

"Yeah, I said no. I...okay with Displo now but there's no way I'm joining them. But still man! I wanted a heist. Let's go rob someone!"

The table laughed.

"Well there was that pentest thing we did." Kapi mused.

"Beep?"

"Basically paid us to break into a company. How far we got, the more money we got. Did what...IRIS, TGG...?"

Whitty shrugged. "You guys did all that before I joined."

"Aw you did that too!" Hex was even more annoyed now.

"Sounds pretty cool though." Connor said. "I'd be up for it."

"Bebbooop?"

Whitty nearly spat out his drink. "Oh man that would piss weatherboy off so hard. No way I'd even be able to get in the building."

"You guys serious?" Girlfriend asked.

"Why not? I mean, if the company's okay with it. What's the harm?" Hex asked. "There's plenty of companies out there. And it sounds fun!"

"Yeah well I'm the getaway driver. Ain't no way I'm doing anything else." Kapi spat.

The table laughed again.

The second last chapter will be called Parting of Minds / The Carnival's Future.

Cauda 22 - Parting of Minds

"I knew you had it in you."

Now Playing...

Artist: Maxodex

Song: Meadow Walk

Link: https://youtu.be/od6HR0L9R7Y

The Carnival was a large group, consisting of people of all walks of life. In the days and weeks after Operation Teardown you learned what everyone intended to do with their money, plans for the future and where they were headed next.

This was a union unlike others and while some you would see again, others you knew you wouldn't. Regardless, everyone had their own paths to traverse. If you would ever cross paths again again...well only time could answer that.

Sitting in the airplane, Tabi next to you and the rest of Entity Records, you reflect on it. In no particular order you think on what happened to everyone.

Ace, RetroSpector and the Seven Deadly Sins

Ace and RetroSpector got back together. With the Seven Deadly Sins arrested and Psychic forcing them to reveal the heist it put them in a precarious position. Officially, Updike weaved it that they were a last minute addition to the Carnival and intended to rob the Family themselves.

In addition to the crimes committed during the fight with Psychic (property damage first and foremost), the police already had warrants for all the members. They were screwed.

The police were already down bad after being humiliated by the Carnival. They wanted a win and refused to let anyone from SDS walk.

Thanks to some negotiations between Ace, Retro, Updike, Displo and the interim police chief a deal was reached. In exchange for reduced sentences for all members, Retro gave up all of SDS hidden assets as well as other elements of the criminal underworld.

As part of the deal a promise was made that once out, they would not engage in such activities again.

Retro and the SDS members were given 2-year sentences and placed under TGG supervision for 1-year probation thereafter. Because of their unique abilities and intelligence they were sent to the TGG prison, though Updike stated they wouldn't get any special treatment.

Ace vowed to see Retro whenever he could, even going so far as to apply to TGG. Last you heard he was inducted as an archivist and looking into police corruption on the side. Pissed off at the cops for failing to find Retro and now targeting the gang he wanted his own revenge. You wished him the best of luck and, should he need any help to reach out.

Either way, SDS was done. You weren't as in touch with the criminal underworld anymore but with the Seven Deadly Sins eliminated too, massive changes would be coming. In SDS' place you learned a demon called Fever had shown up, forming his own crew in their place. From what you heard he was far more merciful and 'violent-avoidant' than the Family. Rosie vouched for him too.

The Andromedas & Entity Records

With the extra money and hype that Agoti was generating prior to the operation a tour was in order. Acting as their manager and parents, Solazar and Amora organized a worldwide tour, capitalizing on Agoti's music. Tabi was a big part of it too. After being out of the game for so long, Agoti announcing Tabi's return generated more excitement. Fans loved his new, dark appearance and together, with Agoti and Aldryx they formed a group. With one of the first stops in Apollo, Ayana and Dalia made an appearance, easily the most energetic people in the crowd.

With Entity Records now being a force to be reckoned with you knew others would soon join.

You stuck along for the ride, acting as security and occasionally working under Tabi's tutelage, learning the ins and outs of pyrotechnics.

Annie

Annie was in a dismal state. After all she'd gone through from possession by both eldritch and trollges to partially being revived to overdosing on that mysterious liquid she was in a coma. Feeling bad, you visited her a few times, though not able to say much. While on tour you heard from Tess that she finally woke up, though changed completely.

Tess wasn't sure exactly what happened but Annie apparently came out energized. Her whole perspective was changed. Annie mentioned that in her coma she'd seen Garcello. She didn't elaborate further to Tess but was content now. She moved on in a way. The next times you saw her she would always be wearing that same trucker hat.

Despite the trollge energy leaving her, Legion's energy remained as black scars across her arm. She decided that proof that she avenged Garcello.

Months later you ran into her working at Tess' new diner, amped up. The sadness that plagued her was replaced with a new one, righteous anger. She was pissed at beings like Legion and S for infecting her. She'd apparently started to become an expert in the topic, vowing to get strong enough to beat one should they ever arise again. You didn't ask further but she seemed much happier.

Carol and Whitty

As per the agreement all charges against Whitty by The Greater Good were dropped. Updike didn't like admitting it but he had to officially back off. He stated that should Whitty ever use his powers to harm others, he would bring the full force of TGG against him. Carol laughed at Updike and stated that there would be no need for such threats, that she'd keep him in check as she had been doing before.

As a bonus, Updike even destroyed Whitty's police file, erasing his criminal record. Despite his freedom Carol noticed that Whitty sometimes spoke about Updike, sometimes thinking out loud about how he should attack TGG or at least surprise Updike. She guessed Updike felt the same, the two occasionally running into each other after. She guessed Whitty and Updike would eventually turn into rivals or even a friendship. After all, despite their past history the two knew more about each other than most of Whitty's friends. Apparently Updike even offered Whitty agent training, though he refused.

With both The Family and TGG gone from Whitty's life he sought to return to normal, the bomb resuming his music career and continuing his path as a musician.

Through Kapi, he said that Whitty still came to the arcade regularly, that he felt much better. Whitty was apparently getting ready to go on tour himself, planning on taking Carol and some other friends with him.

Displo

Much as Displo was a shoe-in to take over IRIS he didn't want to. Running the restaurant was what he enjoyed the most and, with IRIS' resources at his disposal rebuilt his restaurant.

He wished to just resume his place as occasional agent and full-time restaurateur. This only partially worked. Displo had inadvertently become the foremost expert on operations and considered one of the best planners in both IRIS and TGG. He eventually accepted it, agents from both organizations regularly coming to him with operational questions.

Due to their partnership the restaurant became open to TGG agents as well, Updike, Sterling and Abbott as regular customers there. Despite rejecting his leadership nomination, Displo was still forced into becoming the permanent liaison between TGG and IRIS. He agreed to it, so long as he was allowed to keep the restaurant.

Upon hearing of his exploits, Static became even more enamoured with Displo. His career path was chosen. He fully intended to become an IRIS agent, Displo agreeing to take him under his wing when the time came.

Huggy Wuggy

Even though Huggy had been permanently living on the farm for some time now, Pompom felt you should officially say goodbye. They lived out of town, and with no reason to constantly visit anymore, decided to throw Huggy one last party in the city.

Nobody knew when his birthday was so it was decided to be that same day. A small gathering was held in Rosie's cafe as presents were given to the monster. He loved it, even understanding it was for him. When they all said goodbye and readied the teleport back, Huggy gave a farewell wave.

He smiled without bearing his mouth, a happy smile and a silent thank you for freeing him. You waved back, a sudden sadness welling up. You realized that among all the good the Carnival did, Huggy won. He made it out. It wasn't like you would never see him again, but if that was the last time; it felt like an appropriate end. You couldn't imagine what he had been through prior. He was in heaven right now.

Huggy won.

Pompom, Amelia, Ronan and Zardy

Much as Pompom wanted to spend the money as soon as she got it, Amelia didn't let her. That money was to be put towards college and placed into a fund for her to access upon her 18th birthday.

She became a legend in her school, telling all the kids the insane exploits and things she did during her time in the Carnival. Though she couldn't prove it most knew she had some kind of hand in that earthquake and strange events that night. Amelia was worried it would get to her head and after a stern talking to, Pompom agreed to keep it more secret.

That ended up getting to her head and she started to relish in the fact she was a 'secret agent'. With her own group of friends they started to plan mock-heists at the school.

Zardy participated too, using the fake robberies to sharpen his maze-skills as Pompom and her friends tried to outwit the demon. Huggy joined in too, chasing them around and occasionally acting as the villain.

And as Pompom enjoyed it, she saw it as training. She had her eyes set on something else and vowed when ready she'd get the truth. She wanted to know more about Huggy's origin. She decided that when the time came, her, Huggy, Zardy, Static and her mother would venture forth into that factory and uncover the truth.

She told Displo who ultimately agreed to fund the expedition, even adding IRIS tools to their inventory. He told her not to think about it until Christmas or March break of next year. She needed to at least finish this semester. She still needed her mom's permission too, planning to ask her...eventually.

Kapi, Connor, Loki

With the contract destroyed and Family gone, Connor saw fit to return to the city. When he heard of Kapi's accomplishments he was floored, in awe Kapi was capable of such things. They re-united and returned to the arcade to conquer it again.

"I knew you had it in you. You are a certified badass!" Connor said. He asked Kapi if he would do it again, or even consider joining him, to which Kapi replied.

"Nope! Not happening! I'm good here."

Later on, Rosie asked Kapi the same thing, if he would consider joining the donnas. He declined, very much happy in his current position. After the sheer amount of crap he went through he felt perfectly fine in just chilling for a bit. With S gone the scores in the arcade needed updating and with his best friends, Kapi did just that.

Blackjack

You never saw Blackjack again. The rumours were true and he decided to resign from the arcade, putting Mr. Sys in charge. Blackjack was known in the courts of hell now and was given the option to move up in the hierarchy. He declined though did take up one offer. Last you heard, he was apparently working on a new casino in hell, built into some hotel, run by the apparent daughter of Lucifer(?). You didn't get the full details.

TGG wanted Blackjack, the demon charged with various crimes from currency manipulation to possible murder via his gold ability. Either way, with him back in Hell for the time being he was untouchable.

Nikusa

It occurred to you later that if S was able to get out then surely he could have taken Nikusa with him. She was always hard to predict and while Tabi believed she was gone you didn't think she'd go that easily. Aldryx was convinced she was still out there somewhere. Updike and Solazar shared the same opinion though spoke to you privately about it.

The only piece of news that came out that was apparently a TGG agent saw someone who might have been her lurking the outskirts of the city. According to their testimony they saw her at night, standing atop a cliff overlooking the city. She took one look and teleported away. The testimony was unconfirmed and the agent had no proof.

Tabi kept the tiara safe, wearing it under his hat. To him he wore it as remembrance. While S and Selever did their own thing it was Nikusa he saw as the one who sacrificed herself to save them all.

You hoped that wherever Nikusa was, that she was okay and doing good.

Radi and Lofie

It took longer than he thought but Radi's powers finally went away...partially. Updike suggested that Radi keep some of them just in case. Radi agreed. Better understanding his powers, Radi learned to control them being able to change them at all. His radioactivity was gone too, finally allowing him to take that mask off.

With Nikusa gone you heard he and his sister were staying a friends place, working on a way to get back to their home. You weren't present for that first reunion but from what Rosie told you, Lofie wouldn't let go of him, not even for a second.

Whatever the case, Radi was indebted to Updike and vowed that while he looked for a way back he would help TGG in whatever they needed.

Rosie, the Belladonnas and the Fae

With the Family gone, Rosie reclaimed the forest. Per the inheritance, Sister Searest obtained the deed which she gladly handed over to Rosie. Peacefully they moved back in, reclaiming the mystic forest and bringing in a new age for the Fae. When they first left a few of the Donnas were annoyed about abandoning their criminal roots with the forest back and business could they couldn't complain.

The first thing Rosie and the fae did was blow up all the construction equipment around the joint.

With her gang entering a renaissance she thought all was good...until she found a new enemy.

Industrial produced baked goods and chain bakeries. Once in a while you'd hear of some big brand getting attacked or vandalized and knew it to be the work of Rosie. Thanks to the lessons she learned with the Carnival she became a pro at hiding her crimes. For her, a new war was brewing with local business was her side. Last you heard she was working with Displo and Tess on a 'small-business union'.

Now Playing...

Artist: Maxodex

Song: Leaf Sunrays

Link: https://youtu.be/P2iIuzBZTd0

S

S claimed he would get out, that much he was sure of. With the finality of his goodbye and the scar left on your hand you didn't think he'd show up again. And he didn't. He said goodbye. That was it.

At least, you thought so until one day a delivery arrived at your door. It was one of those meal boxes one could order. It contained two packs of frozen sausages, buns, a can of chilli and onions. No origin address you knew who it was from. At first you were confused but when you looked back in your room all the hard drives S ordered were gone.

You guess this was his way of repaying you back.

In the days after you saw a news piece on Mobius. That all contact with the planet had been severed, a dead zone. Phone lines, radio lines and satellite signals were all lost. The planet went radio-silent. Observers in space and from Earth saw Mobius covered in darkness, stretching across the planet.

Curious, you tried reaching out to Nikku only to find from Updike she had left for Mobius the prior week.

You didn't need any confirmation as to what happened. You unleashed hell on Mobius and put them at the mercy of an eldritch god. S would reshape that planet into his own design. Feeling guilty about it as you snacked on the chilli dogs, Tabi had just one thing to say.

"Not our problem."

Nikku

The last time you saw Nikku she mentioned about wanting to learn more of her origins. She was done with Earth and wished to find herself. Though her mind was back the whiplash of what she had become versus what she remembered herself as was jarring. She needed to do some soul searching. She said she would wait for S and when he came back, would journey with him to Mobius and then to the outer cosmos to learn of her past.

Solazar mentioned something Nikku during the tour, they he was glad she was gone. He refused to explain further. Whatever she was capable of, and whoever her parents were worried Solazar.

Regardless, Nikku gained her freedom and was free to explore space.

The Lightbringers

Even though their efforts helped save the city they still wished to serve their time. Their only request was that they be allowed to stay with each other together. Updike agreed. It was the least he could do. After all, Ruv fighting Psychic helped the operation immensely.

Last you heard, Sarventes had begun to evangelize the other inmates, even reforming the Lightbringers church. Springheel was apparently working close with them and even became friends with Ruv...somehow.

You still felt bad for Selever though after learning Sarventes had become pregnant with twins, guessed he made it out. It would be years before you would see the Selever that worked with you but Tabi didn't mind, remarking the boy a nuisance.

Tess

With the money and freedom from the Family, Tess rebuilt her diner. With recipes saved from Rosie's and more experience from Displo's, it re-opened to much fanfare.

Last you heard, Tess, Rosie and Displo were considering forming a company to go against the big chains moving into the City. It was starting to turn into a political, and knowing Rosie, a territorial issue.

Whatever the case you made a note to visit the cafe after the tour.

Theodore

Theodore had gotten the taste of spy-work and 'abominations'. He wanted more. Even in his age he proved himself more than capable. Starting from scratch he applied to TGG's Junior Corps. When Updike got wind of the application he brought Theo in and personally hired him. Still your neighbour, Theo visited from time to time, talking about the grande adventures he was going on and the 'toys' he built. He was ecstatic but still slightly sombre he didn't start sooner.

He found his calling.

Updike, Sterling and Abbott

Through Nikku's words, Earthquake, the IRIS partnership, and Whitty's freedom Updike had a lot to consider going forward. TGG already became much less martial. With Whitty absolved, Updike started focusing more on the company, dealing with abominations, rehabilitating and learning more of their origins. Not having to command a Carnival he returned to a sense of normalcy, realizing how much he missed his work.

He became friendlier and much more of a 'dad-like' figure. How much of that was because of Theo you weren't sure but he was far different from the threatening, walking cloud you first met.

There was some new being Updike was tracking now too.

Enndamo.

The Family

Blackjack personally informed everyone about the fate of the Family. They were found guilty on most counts. They apparently weren't found guilty of kidnapping Sarvente or Blackjack though the Tricky event alone was too far.

They were ordered not to leave hell and sentenced to 1000-years. The tribe they worked with too was tried for complicity. Blackjack explained that trial was still ongoing but regardless, he was adamant you would never see Mommy or Daddy ever again. Apparently you were requested to testify though weren't contacted.

"The demons tried to reach you but found you have some kind of dark aura around you. I believe it the work of that hedgehog." Blackjack said.

The spell did work and Mommy and Daddy didn't know the full story. To them, and to the court's knowledge they tried to revive Tricky, weren't able to control him and stopped by IRIS/TGG/Cops. They remembered you but still thought the Carnival was destroyed in the Night of Fire.

Botan

Botan returned to Japan sometime after the operation. She vowed a rematch with the Carnival though said it would happen far in the future. For now, she wanted a break.

Hex

You never learned the full story of who that robot was. Displo explained to you later he was a former member of IRIS and that a lot of bad blood existed between him and the organization. Whatever IRIS did to him, Displo claimed couldn't be reconciled yet.

Displo spoke sombrely of Hex but wouldn't elaborate what exactly happened between them, just that he was sympathetic and happy that Hex had friends now.

Whether or not inspired by the Carnival you learned that Hex formed a crew at the arcade, consisting of his friends, Boyfriend and Girlfriend, Cyrix, Carol, Whitty and even Kapi's trio. Apparently they wanted to continue 'pentesting', Hex annoyed he wasn't recruited sooner.

Psychic

During the arrest of Mommy and Daddy, Psychic tried to intervene. Updike stopped him and as Psychic read Updike's mind came to a standstill. He knew he had to protect Mommy and Daddy though also knew he had an obligation to protect Girlfriend, Boyfriend, Sister, Brother and Cassandra. As Updike rationalized it Psychic needed to become their protector.

He did so, staying on Earth, acting as the official guardian and current head of the Dearest Family for the 4 remaining kids. Last you heard he had taken a liking to the TGG trio and was working with them, doing what he could to keep the peace.

You were worried Psychic may relent though Updike told you it was unlikely. Psychic's rational was that resurrecting Tricky that night was a bad move. With Mommy and Daddy still alive he decided to wait for them, taking care of his family for the time being.

Boyfriend and Girlfriend

As you destroyed their family you expected them to be angry, vengeful even. But nope. Kapi explained it to you they knew something like this would eventually come. They stayed together, preferring each other's company.

Loaded from the Family's assets they saw no reason to seek revenge either. Not to mention Daddy apparently had all sorts of plans to try and kill Boyfriend. They were kind of glad to be alone now.

You also learned that Boyfriend's sister was some kind of celebrity from Japan and that with her money the two lovebirds would have no problem landing on their feet. They were part of Hex's crew and last you heard planned to start touring with them all if the pentest gig failed.

Sister, Brother and Cassandra

Last you heard Sister Searest, the older one and Brother, the middle child were living together. You learned through Rosie that Brother wanted revenge and wasn't happy. You also learned that Sister Searest was working on Brother, trying to convince him not to go down the same path as their parents. With Psychic as their guardian they all picked up the pieces. Cassandra joined them too and under Sister's tutelage ordered her not to reform her gang.

Smiler

Like Hex, you really didn't know that being's story. He just sort of showed up during the Operation, fought Nikusa's team and sort of hung around after.

Though it was out of purview, Displo watched over him. His ascension process was ruined by S, the creature having to either become more insane to re-ascend or persist in his mostly-human DNA now. Smiler stayed in the TGG prison for months after, ending up becoming a mediator between some of the more mentally sick abominations and helped bring quite a few back from the brink. He knew what it was like to be insane and lose it all. Gradually he accepted his state and grew happier, deciding it his job to help save abominations from the mouth of madness.

Then one day as Displo and Theo wished to speak with him they found his cell empty, sans all the televisions. A letter was found in the middle of the cell, thanking Displo and Theo.

It was caught on camera though Displo and Theo knew already what happened.

Smiler was gone. He was in a better place now.

EXEs

S' transition to real life had unintended consequences. In the months after Operation Teardown you begun to hear about a new type kind of digital creature appearing, colloquially called EXEs. Eldritch in origin they sought to break out of their confines and wreak havoc. In some cases they were known to possess people and in others, enter reality like S did. These were strange, psychopathic, violent and often blood-soaked beings. They all took the appearance of popular celebrities or well-known figures. You even heard a twisted version of Boyfriend was running around.

Much to your worry you found Updike apparently predicted something like this, forming a division just to deal with them. Updike also explained to you that S was the first one of his kind and Agoti was inadvertently the second (thanks to the fusion). Theo was recruited for the EXE task force due to his experience with S. A couple cases later another detail was revealed. That apparently S too, must have seen this coming doing one last thing to the Carnival.

"It's the strangest thing, (Y/N)!" Theo said. "Us, anyone who was a member of the Carnival has been marked. S must have done it. Any EXEs that try to attack me are repelled by some kind of force. One of those blasted creatures told me. We're under some kind of protection. Updike too!"

Even though he was long gone, S continued to surprise everyone.

Legion and Tricky

Though you didn't fully understand parallel worlds you wondered if a parallel universe would send their Tricky and Legion back to yours. Displo was adamant they wouldn't return and told you to not lose any sleep over it.

"This is why we don't deal with QPUs and all that crap. We gave them the warnings. That world will kill Tricky and Legion. I am sure of it." Updike told you later.

With Smiler, JJ and Legion gone, the final cases of the TCF were closed, trollges no longer a threat to the city.

Newgrounds City

The animation and game capital of the world. To you anyways. To describe it as "like any town" would be grossly incorrect. There was always something going on, some festival, some art showcase, some concert or some cataclysmic event. The city was always alive. You'd lived here all your life and there were still things you were learning about the city, all this time later. It was one of the weirdest cities on earth. The city's history was just as colourful, though not the subject of the discussion.

With the Family gone you knew something would replace it. This was just another chapter in the long history of your city.

Much had changed and thinking back on it, changed for the better.

Cauda 23 - Mission Complete!

"Well. It's not our problem."

Now Playing...

Artist: BJ Cole

Song: Pavane Pour Line Enfante Defunte

Link: https://youtu.be/fCnzQnPUnMI

As sunlight started to stream in through the windows Tabi awoke. Early in the morning it should have been the time he usually got up at but something else stirred him. He heard a muffled cry. At least, he thought so.

"...didn't mean it..." He heard mumbled from the other side of the bed. He got up, immediately alarmed at the situation. You, under the blankets were shaking.

Definitely not shaking from the temperature. It may have been a midsummer but you never kept the house cold. There was erratic breathing as well, panting even. Nay, between the mumbling and trembling it was clear you were a having a bad dream. Or rather, less a dream and more a nightmare.

You mumbled incoherently, only a few words understandable. A combo of groans, words that you didn't want this and to get away, all mumbled through clenched teeth.

It was a night terror. There was no doubt in Tabi's mind about it.

"(Y/N)?" He whispered. There was no response. He got a bit closer, whispering again. There was, again, no response. "It's okay. Everything's alright." He said, a little more concerned this time.

He knew what it was like to have vivid nightmares, and how he wished to be free from them. Recalling you had done the same thing to him one night, he decided to return the favour. You didn't deserve this.

Your hand was loose, on the middle of the bed, occasionally twitching, like you were reaching for something not currently there. Tabi moved carefully, weaving his fingers win yours as he lifted your hand slightly.

"It's gonna be okay. I am here." He whispered to you. The mumbling stopped as you held a bit tighter, the movement involuntary. The shaking subsided as did your twitching.

Eyes open you're nearly panic at the site of flames before realizing it was just Tabi looking deep into you. A sigh later, you speak. "Tab, what's going on?"

"You were having a nightmare. Mumbling about something. I couldn't make it out."

"I, uh,-" Heart beating fast you try to remember just what it was you saw. Whatever it was, your mind was blank. The nightmare already gone. "I-I can't remember. Thanks for waking me up." You shiver. Looking into his eyes the flames gave off a calming effect.

You checked the time, early morning. "May as well get up." You mumble.

"Wait!" Tabi said, getting up too. "I have an idea. Don't come in the kitchen till I say!" He shouted before running off.

Rather uncharacteristic of him you stay put. You know he wanted to show off something the past few mornings though each time was wrought with interruptions. You knew it was food related, Tabi having purchased a huge load a few days ago. Dumped in a huge brown paper bag, Tabi demanded you not look at it. Between the sounds of sizzling, popping and the clanking of pans you determined he must have been cooking.

Giving Tabi privacy you check your phone. There was a new text message. From Kapi.

'Yo, spoke to GF, they sold the property.'

It made sense. The last time you saw Girlfriend she was clear they weren't interested in rebuilding it. Even hinted that the pretence that Daddy got the compound under was sketchy at best.

'Who bought it?' You text back.

'Dunno. some company. Actually sold it awhile ago but they were working out the deets.'

'Guess that really means they're gone.'

'Hell yeah! come by the arcade later, GF's treating us!'

Adding the arcade to the agenda, you spend the rest of the time browsing your phone. Checking headlines you don't see any mention of the compound sale. Bored, you even check Mobian news, finding no new headlines. You weren't that interested in Mobius specifically, instead just checking to see if S would ever turn up. I wonder if Chaotix ever made it back. Time passed as you browsed, only regaining focus when Tabi called you.

"Alright! Come out now!" Tabi shouted from the kitchen.

Though the sink was filled with pots, pans and cutlery the work wasn't in vain. Spread on the table were a bunch of small plates containing various dishes. Enough for two there was a wide variety of stuff that Tabi prepared.

"We call it a Zakuski. We're supposed to drink while having, but it's too early for that. It'll be a good breakfast instead." A wide smile on his face, proud of what he did.

"Wow."

Each plate consisted of a small appetizer stretching from small sandwiches, pickled vegetable salad, devilled eggs, pickles, smoked salmon on crackers with dill and cream cheese, mushrooms, various cheeses and even one plate with caviar on it.

You knew Tabi could cook, but this...this was incredible.

"It's similar to a smorgasbord but uniquely from my home." He said proudly.

"Well let's eat. I'm starved!"

Between bites you explained to Tabi the compound situation. He just nodded and ate, not reacting much to the news. "We should visit. I want to see it." He suggested. You agreed.

There wasn't much else to talk about other than the upcoming tour. Life was good. You officially started up the private investigator business and Tabi quit the arborist life, returning to be a full-time producer and musician.

With the tour only days away you had to admit, you were excited. The relationship between you and the goatman grew stronger, almost as if beating the Family was just a minor event in the partnership. Whether or not anything even deeper were to happen is left to the reader. Including any specifics of things that happen at night and so on.

Outside was bright and sunny, the summer in full swing and not scorching hot either. Not a cloud in the sky the city was in a serene bloom. How much of that was your high off the relationship or Teardown you weren't sure.

With the arcade not opening till later you figured to check out the compound now. You weren't sure why. There wouldn't have been much to see. The city already cleaned up the ruins.

Maybe you just wanted to see that it was finally over. Maybe you just wanted proof that it really was gone. That the Dearest Family were finally just another chapter in the history of Newgrounds.

Pulling up to the compound you found yourself surprised. Nothing about it should have been surprising but just the fact the Family didn't own it anymore shocked you. It was finally over. Whoever bought it already moved in. Getting out of the car, you and Tabi walked over to the former entrance.

There was nary an indication a compound even stood here. The black fence was gone, replaced with a row of freshly planted seedlings and grass. In fact, no Family building or any ruin remained. The entire place had been overhauled to look more natural.

Stretching towards the cliff, a bunch of rocks and exposed dirt were about the land, indicating they either didn't do a good job replanting or were going for a more rocky-looking landscape.

Only one building stood on the property, situated at the edge of the cliff overlooking the lake ahead.

A massive medieval-looking tower, purple brick and stretching on into the sky. From windows that spanned each floor and weaved around the building you counted at least 7 floors. At the very top a bright light emitted from one of the windows. Too far to tell you swore you could see a silhouette looking over the city.

If it was coloured differently you could have mistook it for a lighthouse. The strangest thing about the ordeal was the scent. The place smelled nice, of fresh basil, tomatoes, dough and light cheese. No bakeries or pizzeria's in sight you couldn't tell where the scent was coming from.

Starring up at the tower, it exuded an aura of finality that you felt at the start of the last operation. Tabi must have sensed it too, an ominous vibe. You knew it wasn't because of the place this tower stood. Something about it felt wrong.

"No idea who bought it?" Tabi asked, still focused on the sheer height it extended towards.

"Nope. Kapi just said they sold it to some company...I don't like it. I got a bad feeling about it."

"Well. It's not our problem." Tabi said, looking back ahead to the road.

"Yeah, I agree." You look back to the road and then him again. He hadn't left yet, taking one last longing look at the compound.

Tabi's whole MO was because of what they did to him. The Family turned him into a monster. At least, that's what he used to think. You never thought so. You weren't sure these days what he thought. Regardless, with the Family gone you wondered if thought about his appearance anymore. Whenever he looked into a mirror was he reminded of what Daddy did? Or did he just see Tabi? You hoped it was the latter. That it was who he was and whatever circumstances forced him here he had conquered all.

"What are you looking at?" Tabi asked, giving you a side eye. "And what's with that dumb look on your face?" He asked.

Changing it, you ask. "Now that Family is gone how do you feel about your, uh, appearance?" You ask, trying not to make it awkward. "C-cause you saw Amelia right?" You get out. You remembered that one of the last meetings he and Amelia spoke, the witch having some idea of how to reverse the spell.

Looking forward, Tabi closed his eyes briefly. "I am who I am. Amelia said she might be able to remove it, bring back my original face..."

"And?"

"What they did to me is permanent." He remarked. "My arms, body will look like a ghost. Forever. But I don't care. They did this to me and I sent them back to hell. Forever. This face is mine and mine alone." He said coldly.

"I'm not changing a damn thing. Are you fine with this?" Tabi paused, looking to you. His eyes flickered white, anxiously awaiting your response.

"I love you the way you are. My goat king."

Tabi smiled. "Ah, shut up."

Looking back forward Tabi continued. "She said that while she can't remove it completely, she can make it so I control it. Make it appear when I want. She asked if I wanted that ability."

"Really? Like some kind of secret identity thing?"

Tabi nodded.

"D-did you take it?"

Tabi snickered. "Already did, babe. You wanna see what I used look like?" Tabi looked to you as his face glowed. The goat head started to fade as a different face appeared. Human in appearance, you found yourself amazed.

He really was human. "Imagine that. Two faces and you're beautiful in each." You say, taking in the original Tabi.

"Let me show you what I can really do now.~"

The End.

Now Playing...

Artist: Gaston

Song: Hekla

Link: https://youtu.be/c9GcVKungL8

Wew. I can't believe I did it. When I first outlined the book I didn't expect it to get so damn long. Turnabout Teardown was supposed to just be one book. However when I write I don't usually put limits so here we are, 3 books later.

While I wrote and planned this story a lot changed. I mentioned here and there but there were a bunch of things I planned or scrawled that were cut or swapped for whatever reason. Here's a dump of various lore tidbits that were never established, cut plans or secrets. For the sake of grammar, you/(Y/N) will be referred to as Geist (the name I use for the character).

Welcome to my dev room.

Here's some lore stuff to start off.

-- Parappa Lore --

Parappa is a famous rapper and associate of the rock band Milkcan out of Japan. Hugely popular he is currently on a comeback tour after years of being on hiatus. One of the stops is Newgrounds City. Due to Parappa's refusal to use the Family's connections in the city (didn't want to pay them for venues or 'protection') they intend to assassinate him during the concert. The Carnival learns of the plot as well as Parappa's connections to demons (Teriyaki Yoko) and crash the concert in both an effort to save Parappa and recruit him to the Carnival. The operation would have been a success and resulted in a showdown of Agoti and Tabi doing a rap battle against Parappa and PJ Berri while the others worked to stop the assassins.

With Parappa on the Carnival he would have been able to launch a military-level attack on the Compound causing a huge distraction. Being that his dad is an inventor he would have worked with Theo to build equipment for an attack.

I'm still bummed I didn't have Parappa in the book. I mention a few more cut characters below but of them all Parappa is the one I am most sad about not having. After all, Friday Night Funkin' is basically this generation's Parappa the Rapper.

-- Undertale Lore --

Since Xchara and Gaster were intended to appear at some point some character (probably Geist) would have recapped how the public knew of the "Undertale".

Years ago a rumble was in a rural part of the country. Though a mountain and chasm existed there nobody knew of anything that lived in it. After some orphaned child went missing near the chasm a massive manhunt and [events underground] resulted in a subterranean race of anthros and other strange creatures being discovered. Led by a King Asgore, the "Underdwellers" became an officially recognized kingdom and established ties between the surface and underground. Since then an exchange of cultures began and some Underdwellers moved to the surface. Sans is one of the under-people currently residing in Newgrounds City, facilitating an underground arms ring.

-- Tankman Lore --

Tankman was very early on considered to be a major character on the team. In the story they exist in a lawless section of the city known as the Wasteland. Similar to how Central Park in New York City exists in the centre, the wasteland does in Newgrounds City, occupied by the Tankman. During the Madness Wars the Tankman controlled the city. After suffering heavy losses from NEXUS they ceded a lot of land to the city's government where they now live in their post-apocalyptic enclave.

They are generally considered the founders of the city and keep to themselves. The police won't make a move against them as they know they cannot win that fight. They still have military-grade weaponry from the Madness Wars too. They also have some allies in federal politics which allow them protection. The city has some sort of treaty with them that as long as they keep to themselves the city won't bother them. Very early on Geist would've realized they are a group who, if properly organized could take down the Family.

In the beta version, Geist, Rosie, Tabi and Pico would have entered the enclave and attempted to recruit the Tankmen, arguing that they could take the Compound and obtain water-access. There's a shooting contest between them and the leader agrees to assist, vowing to invade the Compound and launch a war when the time was right.

-- The Demonic Order --

Demons have a hierarchy with different classes and different strengths. Zardy, while a violent demon and powerful is not an archdemon. He doesn't have the same stature as Blackjack or Sarvente. Stolas and RetroSpector are other examples of archdemons. Zardy could become an archdemon, though cares little of the process. He is content on his farm, spooking trespassers.

-- Trollges --

Trollges were never considered in the beta version. Mostly just off the fact I had no idea that mod even existed. It was psuedonymousrex who suggested them and man did they fit perfectly. I could have some lore here but their story is pretty fleshed out as it is. In the story's lore there are no more trollges left. There might be one of two lurking somewhere but none of the powerful ones.

-- Antinominal Organizations --

A few organizations exist in Newgrounds City that monitor the existence of strange creatures (i.e non-human, non-anthro and non-stick figure). They are called Antinominal Organizations. Officially there have been 4. IRIS, TGG, NEXUS and the TCF. At the time of writing only IRIS and TGG are left. SCP and RPC Authority were considered but they are way to militant for the story and would've caused too many issues. This is in conjunction to various government agencies that occasionally deal with 'abominations' like CSIS, FBI, FSB, etc.

-- Tabi's Human Appearance --

I know Tabi's mod has a canon appearance but as this was written before that mod it's left up to the reader's imagination what he actually looks like.

I should probably address the controversy with his mod. Tbh with specifics I don't really know. My brother gave me a few summaries when Homskiy was around but as for the recent stuff I don't know. The mod's cancelled apparently but in my opinion I've done the character enough justice here. I did justice with the character and to me anyways, feel that this book's Tabi is the real one. I mean shoot. This whole series is what, 500K words? Whenever I see Tabi I see the character that appeared in these pages. Not whatever drama is surrounding him now. (This also all applies to Displo).

That said, my head-canon appearance is that he's blonde. I have some image of a human Tabi saved (no idea who drew it) alongside a female version of him. In my view that's what he looks like as a human. I don't like the 'official' one we have now. Doesn't even matter because Tabi's original design was originally as an Undertale character. So he's always been a skeleton guy. He was never human.

-- Entity Records --

A record label run by Solazar with artists such as Agoti, Aldryx and Tabi. It was briefly thought to eventually have Solazar form Entity into a crew itself going on to sign Whitty, Hex, Ruv, Zardy and even Nikusa, basically all mods that SugarRatio worked on. In the finale Entity Records would have been one of the main factions alongside the Carnival that attack the compound. Though it's needless to write, following the events of Operation Teardown, a few more artists signed to the label.

-- Boyfriend and Girlfriend --

Since Boyfriend and Girlfriend have run into so many people of varying danger levels and abilities AND survived all encounters they have some kind of powers. This is even mentioned in Agoti's mod as Solazar believes them responsible for some rift. In addition there's the Trollge Files which make Boyfriend and Girlfriend straight up secret agents. Since Boyfriend and Girlfriend don't even appear till after the prison break + weren't even originally intended to appear except at those storylines never got fleshed out.

-- Overpowered Creatures --

The most powerful beings in the book are S^2, Legion and Tricky. I made notes for 2 other cosmic beings but those never materialized. They were Shaggy (explained below) and Bendy.

In the AU, Bendy is currently sealed in a book under TGG possession. Thing is Bendy is a major villain. He's not someone like Bob Velseb who could be killed by conventional means. If I introduced him he would have completely derailed the plot.

These beings are only ones barely capable of "universal travel". As we've seen they can't fully break into parallel universes without doing some BS/deus-ex-machina crap or combining powers.

-- Shaggy --

In Final Fantasy IV there is an optional boss you can fight called Omega. Insanely powerful he is far stronger than the final boss. Final Fantasy V has Enuo. Kingdom Hearts 2 has Terra and Sephiroth. Shin Megami Tensei has Stephen Hawking. Though I'm not going to write it if there was a super boss in Operation Teardown it would be Shaggy. It would be one of those fights where you pick who you want to bring in and you heavy strategies to win.

In the book's lore, Shaggy is a cosmic being who, like S, took the appearance of a character he was fascinated by. He just floats through worlds and watches things. Incomprehensible to most people, S would have figured him out instantly. Any confrontation between him and the crew would purely have been in fun, Shaggy just testing to see what they could do. Unlike S he isn't malicious at all, learning of different people fascinating to him. (I suppose Matt could be the same way but I know nothing about that mod).

-- Years --

The book occurs in the year 2021. Therefore the first investigation started on January 29, 2021 and lasted until April 1st when Steadfast Spring starts. Book one continues until May 1st when a two-week time skip happens before the Night of Fire begins. The whole series ends on July 1st, 2021 as Operation Teardown took them into the early morning of the 1st. I ended up writing a whole document listing what happens on each day.

Tabi's birthday according to Funkipedia is May 30th. Curiously, Nikku's birthday is May 24th but as she didn't have her memory back she missed it. S' birthday is listed as June 23 though that happened during the time skip and due to S' understanding of time doesn't celebrate it. I checked everyone else's birthday but none appeared in the book's timeline.

The COVID-19 pandemic did not happen in this universe, though far more violent things have occurred like the Madness Wars. Debuts of "media" are synced to events in the Turnabout world.

In this timeline, February 2023, the city of Youtopia is destroyed in an event called the "Skibidi War". If I bothered to write about it Geist would have seen the similarities between it and the Madness Wars, remarking that this was their battle and glad you were in Newgrounds City.

But I'm not going to write a 2-year time skip for a topical joke lol.

-- Scraps --

Next up, here is some cut stuff and scrapped plans that didn't fit anywhere else.

-- The Banquet --

At one point the Carnival would have planned the heist on the same day the Family was throwing a banquet for various demons. The police chief and mayor would be there, Stolas (protected by I.M.P.), some Helltaker characters and some other demons. In that timeline Blackjack would have been a member of the team and be one of the guests.

Thing would have gone south and a showdown between the Carnival (maybe Team Python) and I.M.P. who thought that they were there to assassinate Stolas. Once the misunderstanding was resolved they would have either left or Stolas would have joined. They didn't like the Family. Due to the Family's 'mafia-like' demeanour, Angel Dust would have been involved somewhat.

In the chaos of the banquet being crashed, Blackjack would've removed his mask, going berserk and attacking the Family directly.

-- Some Cut Characters --

Aside from Parappa here are the top 3 characters I would love to have added. Unlike Parappa these ideas never got off the ground.

Team Member: Stolas (Hazbin Hotel) - Would have meshed with the party well, clashed hard with Updike, be begrudgingly protected by I.M.P. though he refused and generally been a miscreant. Would not like Carol and generally be another uptight figure. Probably would have loved Displo and insisted he dress proper, the two sharing tailor tips. In the operation he would likely have joined S' team or thought them too raucous for him. I'm not sure.

Boss: Ao Oni (Ao Oni) - Would have engaged the crew in a boss fight. Not just the original blue guy but the others, including the buff version. Would have seen S get annoyed at them, claiming he does blue better. Updike would have been merciless as would Solazar. Annie, if around would have fought the buff Ao Oni, going berserk at him.

Team Member: Baldi (Baldi's Basics) - Would have challenged the crew to some kind of math contest. When they got to the 3rd question and the answer got distorted, S would answer it with some zalgo text. Baldi would be amazed but in such awe he would tell the team there were mathematicians. Would join thereafter. If I do a sequel this is how Baldi will join, 100%. It'll be like in Fire Emblem you just need the right ally to speak with him to join.

-- Pico --

After recruiting Rosie it would be determined that a sniper would be needed. Rosie would suggest a hitman she knew from back in the day. There she would introduce Geist and Tabi to Pico, a hitman-for-hire and professional contract killer. A member of the Society he would have been aware of Geist's efforts against The Donnas. Geist would also know Pico from both his killings and shootings. Geist would even know that Pico tried to take out Boyfriend at one point. One thing leads to another and Pico is hired. After failing to kill Boyfriend, Daddy put a hit on Pico. Now he wants revenge for that.

During Operation Teardown, Pico would have a showdown with Cassandra, abandoning the mission and going one-on-one with her. This would have concluded both their storylines and Pico would lead whatever attacked him after away from the compound. This also means that it could have been Pico that lead Psychic away from the compound instead of the Seven Deadly Sins.

Since Pico was cut, Cassandra was killed way earlier, off-screen by Rosie.

-- Tricky --

Tricky was always intended as the final boss. As for how he could have been revived the demons + trollge wasn't planned till way later. He was one of the few variables that never changed throughout the whole story. In my view of the mods, Tricky is the final boss.

-- The Original Coalition --

In the final operation the coalition was The Carnival, IRIS, TGG, The Seven Deadly Sins and the Donnas.

In the first outline I wrote the coalition would have been The Carnival, IRIS, the Tankmen, the Donnas and the Parappa Family / Milkcan. In that version TGG would have been destroyed in Operation Earthquake.

-- Other --

Finally, here's some random other tidbits from my notes.

-- Unfinished Stuff --

Due to some of the mods I used not being finished I filled in the blanks or purposefully left stuff ambiguous. This included all the members of the Seven Deadly Sins and Nikku's entire back-story. At the time of writing they just weren't established. Since Displo's mod was cancelled I wrote my own back stories for him.

-- Cameos --

There are so many references to Newgrounds or similar things throughout the book. Like during Operation Blindside, the security guards were the cast of OneyPlays. I scattered so many in the book I can't even recall them all. But I loved sticking them in. Hell, ENA appears in one chapter as a brief mention. Do you know where?

-- How I Picked The Team --

How did I pick all this? Well for one it was anything that had a FNF mod was fair game. But after awhile I decided to just go with whatever. You could say that this series, while grounded in Friday Night Funkin' really just comprises this era of Indie games, especially indie horror/mascot horror games. I haven't played a lot of them but have seen enough and know enough people who have that they have all meshed together. Garden of Banban was one that I asked my brother if I should add. He banned it.

Whenever I go on YouTube it tends to recommend me whatever. So in 2021 or so, every time I opened YouTube it was "hey look at the latest FNF mods"! Despite me having not played the game. Same deal with the others, FNAF, Baldi, Buckshot, Voices of the Void, etc. All that stuff just sort of meshed together for me.

If you're wondering why certain people were picked it was just because I felt like it. Theo wasn't even considered until I got to the Night of Fire when I decided he should just move in as, well, the neighbour.

Mal0 was considered for a while before I went with Sonic.exe. Just on the basis my brother doesn't like Mal0 + Sonic.exe is way more popular in the FNF fandom + SCP would've caused too many issues.

-- My Brother --

A lot of this was written for my brother. He was my 'executive producer'. Basically just asked him general FNF lore questions and what he thought about so-and-so. Who should join? Can X beat Y? What exactly can Tess do? Etc.

-- Title --

Picking the title of this book was so hard. Random titles I have listed were the following: Familial Wars, The Revanchist Crisis, The Carnival Crisis, Seasons of Strife, In Stubborn Defiance, Our Dearest War, A Dish Served Cold, Carnival of Revenge, Comedy of Revenge, The Revanchist Carnival, Revanche Carte Blanche, Symphony of Slaughter, Record of Revanchism and Revenge's Requiem. Ended up settling with Turnabout Teardown. And even then I'm still torn between just calling the books their subtitle (Steadfast Spring instead of Turnabout Teardown: Steadfast Spring).

-- Spinoffs --

One of the first things I planned as a joke when outlining the story was making this establish some kind of 'cinematic universe' and setting up (but not actually writing) a bunch of spinoffs. Pompom and friends entering the Playtime Co factory, the Minus/D-Sides world + Operation Takedown, S and Nikku in Mobius, Entity Records taking over, etc. As funny as that could have been I'm content leaving it here.

At the time of writing I have no intention of writing any spinoffs. As for sequels....we'll get to that below.

----------------

Now Playing...

Artist: Frostlake

Song: Moth People

Link: https://youtu.be/aoEkQdJBQ_0

At the end of my FNAF novel I wrote that I would never have expected my first publicly released book to have been based off FNAF. Well I certainly wouldn't have then expected I would go onto write 3 books about FNF. Ah well. I had a blast writing them and wouldn't change a thing.

I'll admit I am kind of sad to see this end. Of course, all things end and this book has overstayed its welcome on my repertoire. It provided stability and I liked that. I would post a chapter at the start of the week, see a few comments and be content until that Friday when I would post the next and the cycle repeats. It also doesn't help this whole series went on over a year so I got really used to it. Posting and writing became like a routine. Never once did I feel like this was a burden. Only near the end because I wanted to focus on my other writings.

I'm satisfied. I've done everything I wanted with these characters sans seasonal stuff like a holiday special (not confirming anything, I've already spent way too much time on these novels lol).

As for what's next well I have a few things I'm working on. When I wrote that FNAF book I forced myself to learn SFM so I could make images from it. Intended to do the same for this book. However there aren't that many FNF models out there. Kapi for example has one model out on Sketchfab and it sucks.

And some models weren't available in SFM (such as that gorgeous Tabi model above). And porting a model from Blender to SFM is a massive pain (I can't do it). So I decided, screw it, time to learn Blender. This comes after I've struggled with trying to get good at drawing for 2 years. Started up Blender and I've been having a blast with it. Some of the images I've made for this story have been entirely in Blender.

Now I'm at a part where I'm creating my own 3D models, learning the ins and outs of sculpting and intending to start learning animation soon. So in a way, FNF forced me to learn 3D art. And also thanks to FNF for having such a simple art style to transition to 3D well. I'm not going to announce anything though here you can see I've been busy. Whenever I finish this (and assuming I don't abandon them) I've been getting some great practice with these.

(gonna go with a Tabi design that shows his skeleton with a ghostly translucent skin, but yes I do believe he is that jacked). There's still a lot of work left from retopology to rigging to adding more details to the face (plus I think I'm gonna re-do Tabi's head again). Either way I'm very happy with the progress I've made so far.

I'll release them publicly when/if they are done. Plus I really want to make a few images from the book real. One of Team Python standing as a group, one of Pompom riding atop Huggy with her mother floating beside from the end of Operation Earthquake and one of Displo's bar.

I wanna make a Kapi model as well though his design is more complex. I need more practice. Either way, I'm having lots of fun doing 3D work so I'm glad this book forced me to.

....

Sequel?

I've been writing for many many years now, pretty much whatever I felt like. I love the setting of Newgrounds City a lot. So much in fact I wanna revisit it at some point. When I write it's usually nighttime before I go to bed.

Months ago, circa August 2023 I had a dream about the novel. I was at a book signing for Turnabout novels. I remember seeing Tabi and Huggy there but also 3 novels on the table in front of me. They had those stylish covers that the iPod Nanos used to have (with the one-colour background and person in front). First one had Updike, 2nd had Daddy, 3rd had a character on it. The thing that bothered me was there was a third book. Turnabout Teardown 3. At the time I didn't split Operation Teardown into its own book.

I didn't have any intention of writing a 3rd book at the time either. Once Turnabout Teardown was released that was it. Confused, I looked at the back and read the synopsis...It was a Pizza Tower fanfic set in the same city. Even saw some of the plot. I took a few days break from writing, figuring it the Turnabout AU getting too deep in my mind.

So, uh yeah. Maybe I'm meant to write a 3rd book with Pizzahead as the main villain. That's what the blurb above sets up. So I thought about a bit. Geist and Tabi won't be the main characters. No idea who's gonna even show up aside from a handful of characters. The Noise, my favourite Pizza Tower character will take Tabi's role (though not in an xReader context. Noise is happily married, more of a boss/employee relationship). I know I want MX [Mario 85], Baldi [Baldi's Basics] and maybe Alastor [Hazbin Hotel] to appear but as for any structure we'll just have to see. Tabi and Geist may get a cameo. (and also that union that Displo/Tess/Rosie set up wasn't just some random thing I wrote muahahaa). I already know there will be a scene with The Noise playing Buckshot Roulette, the mascot not having a care about the implications while the protagonist watches with fear that his boss is gonna kill himself. I've thrown up a mock-up cover and synopsis on my website (odaospace.neocities.org) in case you wanted to see what's gonna happen to Newgrounds City. It won't be called the Turnabout AU either. I'm going with Dreamspire AU.

I'm not giving any timeline as to when Dreamspire will be in development or even past the planning stages. Much as I like Newgrounds City I'm not interested in returning to it until the future. I really gotta continue my original work haha. I might make an image here and there for practice but nothing further for now. See the image below if you want another teaser. One of the scenes has already been written. The Noise conducting a demon summoning ritual, summoning Alastor and the radio demon attempting to kill The Noise. I already made the image (part of is it visible below on that board). I may post that as a bonus thing sometime in the future. Maybe for some holiday. Other than that I have not written anything else for Dreamspire.

The Turnabout AU has evolved past FNF clearly. Now it's just indie-media-in-general.

If you want to go all symbolic about the book you could say that Turnabout Teardown as whole is an allusion to a fan of Friday Night Funkin' going through all the mods and related games, watching all the crossovers and learning all the lore. The book ends with the reader satisfied with FNF and what it stands for, still in awe at the memories made by the mods. As tons and tons of EXE mods popped up after, it fits with Newgrounds City being overrun by the creatures.

Then Pizza Tower comes out and that fan joins a new fandom and their attention is drawn there.

If you want anything similar to this I'd recommend the stuff that inspired it. Sly Cooper 3: A Band of Thieves sees Sly going around recruiting a team for a massive heist. Callahan's Key by Spider Robinson has a bartender do a massive road-trip with a whole bunch of strange and wacky characters. I love that book. There's also Arc the Lad: Twilight of the Spirits. It's a massive JRPG that has you recruit a ton of characters (a bit like this one) and pick and choose who you fight. I imagine if Turnabout Teardown was a game it's gameplay would be identical.

If you made it this far then thanks for reading and sticking around! This novel took way longer than it was supposed to (life got in the way) but I'm glad I wrote it. Never once did I consider abandoning it though writing the final operation was the most challenging part.

A huge thank you to AO3 users, Spyper and psuedonymousrex as well as Quotev user Thoughtspeaker for commenting on practically every chapter of the series. You three and your suggestions made posting fun and I looked forward to each comment whenever I posted a chapter. You 3 also drove development in the book and even changed things like the final fight. If not for you the book would have had no trollges, the arcade battle, Botan and the extra Whitty chapter. Probably other changes but I can't remember right now. Thanks to anyone who read, commented or liked the story. Even if only 1 person liked it that's good enough for me. I loved seeing the comments, any and all. I'm very happy others have enjoyed it as much as I have written it.

As for what's next? I'm long overdue to finish my work on my original novels. Can't say much now but one is post-apocalyptic and the other is an isekai. People still occasionally ask me to make the FNAF sequel and as for stuff on this page the next thing coming out from me will likely be the next FNAF book, titled Pop Goes the Balloon (or Big Bushy Tail, haven't decided yet). It's still in the early stages but I'm leaning heavily towards some form of reader-interactivity. I loved how much some things changes in this story (especially the final team). Will definitely be doing something similar for the FNAF sequel, even if its just a poll at a certain point about what the reader/(Y/N) should do next. Plus I have those 3D models and whatever I do with Blender next.

At the suggestion of another user I made a discord - hadair.writer. I don't use Discord much so I don't reply in a few days that's why. But if you want to say hello feel free to! I've also made a Tumblr under just odaocer. Gonna post stuff regarding my 3D journey or just some other random stuff.

Either way, this has been a blast.

Homskiy, wherever you are. I hope you are doing good. Thanks for making this really cool character.

Thanks for reading!

~ Hadair/Odaocer