🌙🕸Maddi Rivers🕸🌙

Just your local alternative nerd who spends time with obscure music and indie games. Usually the one pointing out what everyone else missed.

[gothicnerdxd]

Intro?

So, my friend Steph told me to get this. So I guess I should probably introduce myself...

My name is Madeline Rivers, but everyone just calls me Maddie. I'm a freshman at Hatchetfield High, and I've accidentally seen things i shouldn't have seen at this age (cough cough, my friends summoning demons).

I like writing, music, girls (dont tell Chastity), the supernatural, and drawing. My friends are Steph, Pete, Grace, Ruth, Richie, and anyone else who would consider me that.

Apparently I have a shitty homelife? Not 100% sure about that but then again the closest thing to a dad I have right now is that one guy who keeps flirting with Emma at Beanies. But anyways...

About the owner: Hi! This is more-or-less just an OC roleplay blog I made out of boredom, a self-insert, and a new hyperfixation. But anyways, my name is Star, I have some similar hobbies to Maddie, but I haven't seen my friends summon demons- Asks are open and always available! @incendiarydaydream main

Tags!

Rivers Posts: Regular posts

Rivers Answers: Answering asks (if I get any)

Rivers Responds: Responding to reblogs from people (tags, reblogs of mine, ect)

Rivers Draws: The occasional art post.

Rivers reblogs: self explanatory

Rivers Writes: journal entries over the weird shit that happens in Hatchetfield.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Paul help I got lost in the woods :(

@gothicnerdxd

Oh! Okay. Don't worry, it's fairly easy to get turned around in there. Thats why I usually just follow my nibling or Emma if I go. Are there... any landmarks you can see? Can you see the ghosts and ask directions from them?

[gothicnerdxd]

I-I don't think I see anything? I'll keep searching. Is there anything in specific I could look for?

[feed-it-to-nibbly]

Wilbur Cross, that guys giving me the creeps and I hate em

@ask-uncle-wiley :)

[ask-uncle-wiley]

Not again…

Also I’m hurt Anon, I ain’t that creepy am I? :)

[gothicnerdxd]

you are

[paul-matthews-ccrp]

Hi Paul :)

@gothicnerdxd

Hi. How did you find my work account?

[gothicnerdxd]

... No reason.

[christianchasity]

Every, AND I MEAN EVERY Hatchetfield RP blog repost this post. I wanna see how may there are.

[gothicnerdxd]

Do u listen to the PEAK artist Chappell Roan

... The only things I've listened to this month are green day and whatever my art teacher plays so no...

[notaloserr]

Hi Richie!!!!!!! :3

@gothicnerdxd

hi maddi !! (*^▽^)/★*☆♪

i didnt know u made a tumblr ( ﾟ□ﾟ) !! how r u ??

[incendiarydaydream]

im doing good!!!! :3

hbu?? whatcha up to??

[notaloserr]

literally nothiiiiingggg

i do basically nothing like allll day other than like. watch anime and basic chores n stuff σ(^_^;)?

[gothicnerdxd]

fair lol :,)

all I really do is guitar and draw, plus basic chores :3

[littlemissruth]

hiiiiii ^^

@gothicnerdxd (oc)

Omg!! Hi maddi !! :D!!!

Hru ??

[gothicnerdxd]

I'm doing pretty good!! :)

How about you? :P

[littlemissruth]

I'm good!!

heh.. hows ur love life?

Nobody wants me, still, but im alr ! I just listen in on my friend's dates ÒvÓ!

[gothicnerdxd]

Eh, I'm with you on this. Still can't get a girlfriend :,)

How's the musical been?

[gothicnerdxd]

Guess who ran away from homeee

Uh

Does anyone in hatchetfield have a place I could stay?

[mechanical-boi]

Hmmm I could ask my mother if you would be able to stay with us

[gothicnerdxd]

Oh, uhm, thank you! Could I meet her?

[littlemissruth]

hiiiiii ^^

@gothicnerdxd (oc)

Omg!! Hi maddi !! :D!!!

Hru ??

[gothicnerdxd]

I'm doing pretty good!! :)

How about you? :P

[gothicnerdxd]

what the fuck- WHY ARE THE PEOPLE AT BEANIES SINGING?! I JUST WANTED A HOT CHOCOLATE :(

@suddenly-likes-musicals I just wanted a hot chocolate 😭

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Get out of there! Don't drink anything they give you, they've infected it! Run as far as you can and hide if you need to! Get out of downtown!!

[gothicnerdxd]

A-alright... I'm right outside downtown. The hot cocoa was blue for some reason... W-where do I go next?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Anywhere away from people. If you can leave Hatchetfield, do it. It's going to keep spreading, you need to stay away from it.

[gothicnerdxd]

If you could, could you come with me..? Please..? I dont want to be alone...

[She looks to him, obviously nervous.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

I....

yeah, I'll come with you. Might... might make it more dangerous, I don't know how much of a beacon I'll be to them, but... at least I can help keep you safe while I'm awake.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She smiles, grabbing onto his hand.]

Well then, lead the way...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul lets out an unneeded breath, just nice to know he still can breathe if he chooses.]

god, i hope i can leave hatchetfield.

[He squeezes Madeline's hand and starts down the street, making his way towards the bridge out of Hatchetfield.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[Madeline follows, quietly, looking around at the town as they're leaving, breathing in as she tries to calm down.]

I hope we can too...

[She continues walking, fidgeting with something in her jacket pocket.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

I... I think you'll be fine. As long as the bridge is down, at least. Me, on the other hand... I don't know if there are other factors keeping me here. Are you okay? Did they hurt you?

[gothicnerdxd]

They didn't, I just... I just want to survive this nightmare... And I don't want to survive alone...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He swallows dryly, eyes focused on the sidewalk.]

I... didn't survive the first couple times I went through this. Hopefully third time's the charm, but... If I tell you to, I need you to get as far away from me as you can, okay?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at him, tilting her head, unaware that her hands have begun to shake slightly.]

Oh... Okay then... I guess I could...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He exhales a relieved breath.]

Thank you. I know, I really dont want it to happen either... but we have to be ready for anything.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She continues walking, but squeezes his hand, not wanting to let go.]

Well then, lets continue...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Mhm.

[Paul walks with purpose in the direction of the bridge, careful to scan around corners as they go in case of an ambush.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She keeps following him, keeping an eye out for anyone who may be infected. With her spare hand, shes drumming against her leg, a sort of nervous stim.]

Is it safe..?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul's free hand subconsciously drums on his leg as well, following the taps and rhythm that Madeline creates with hers without realizing.]

So far. But I'm a walking tracker to them. They could be anywhere.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks to him, nodding slightly at that, continuing the subconscious drumming against her leg.]

True... I guess we'll need to be as safe as possible...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

That we d-

[Paul stops, eyes flicking around as the music builds in his head. A sign that more of the Hive is nearby. He lightly squeezes Madeline's hand.]

They're close. We've gotta hurry up.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at him, and nods, speeding up and letting him lead us away from the Hive. She keeps holding onto his hand, no longer drumming against her leg.]

A-alright... Lets go then.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He goes as fast as he can, though still makes sure Madeline can keep pace with him. The music only grows and grows, gets louder and louder as the Hive zeroes in on his location. Paul grits his teeth and just tries to keep focused on the path ahead.]

come on, come on...

[gothicnerdxd]

[She keeps following him, running as close to his pace as I can, beginning to hear the music as well.]

We can do this...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Alright, it's just ahead, we just have to- Fuck!

[He skids to a halt before the bridge, watching as it begins to raise and Hive drones start to block the way.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She freezes, squeezing his hand tighter than ever, as the bridge raises.]

N-no... Shit...

[She begins to back away from the Hive that were blocking the way, and immediately begins looking for another way out.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul twitches as he fights the call of the music, looking around for another way as well.]

Fuck... fuck, now what? We- we can't do the high school, that's going to be overrun... nothing downtown... something FAR from the theater. M-Maybe Hidgens'? Ugh, he's going to be a problem again, too...

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at him, nervous but confused.]

Who? A-and what do you mean... AGAIN?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

I told you, I've been through this all before. But the first couple times, I didn't survive it! Hidgens is... h-he's an insane shut-in weirdo in the woods but his house is basically a doomsday bunker. Thats what kept me in one place and my friends fairly safe for most of the day. The only problem is dealing with Hidgens himself, which I really don't want to do!

[gothicnerdxd]

a-alright, its a fair point. He's probably gonna be our best bet, but I hope we dont have to really deal with him...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

We could... tie him up, I guess? Lock him in a room... he might still have access to voice controls though. Fuck, this is exactly why my buddy took care of him last time.

[He shakes his head.]

Fuck it, it's our best chance and we'll work it out as we go. Come on!

[He starts in the other direction, tugging on Madeline to follow as he set a path for the Witchwoods.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She follows, looking around at the witchwoods as they run.]

Alright, I'll keep an eye out for the hive.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Thank you. I remember where his house is and it should be a straight shot, only problem is if we get cut off by the Hive on the way there.

[He runs down the street, following it straight across uptown and into a path into the Witchwoods.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She tries to keep up, while still keeping an eye out for the Hive.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He books it as fast as he can, still careful to keep Madeline's hand and trying not to drag her. The music iss loud. It pounds with his footsteps. Screams to him the melody of a happy morning. A Lah Dee Dah Dah Day! His vision clouds and his humming gets louder, but he pushes on. No one was going to get hurt on his watch. Not this time.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She keeps running, as fast as she can, and she hears the music. She squeezes his hand a bit, still looking around.]

Are we close?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

What-?

[He looks back, his perception snapping back to reality as he processes the question.]

Oh, yeah. It should be just over here.

[They reach a large fence, Paul touching it quickly to check if it was electrified before letting out a relieved breath.]

Okay, step into my hands. I'll hoist you over.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at him, and then nods a bit. She steps onto his hands, and looks at him.]

Alright... On the count of 3?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He nods.]

Okay, One...

[gothicnerdxd]

[She prepares, keeping her balance.]

Two...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Three!

[He hefts Madeline up, probably with more force than he was expecting as she was nearly thrown on top of the fence.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[I get a bit surprised, but I grab onto the fence before I can land on top of it. I let go once I'm on the other side, to unlock it and let him in]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul moves inside the fence quick, locking it back behind him as he saw a few infected pokong through the trees. He took Madeline's hand again and rushed to the door of the- frankly more mansion than house, ringing the doorbell as he clenched his jaw.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She holds onto his hand, looking at it. She fidgets with her other hand, waiting for Hidgens to answer.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[A small comms speaker squeaks to life with a static noise.]

"Who is it!?"

Professor Hidgens!

"Don't lie to me whoever you are! I'm Professor Hidgens!"

[Paul facepalms with his free hand.]

right, the fucking script...

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at Paul, confused, before speaking.]

Uhm, my name is Madeline. I'm with Paul. We just needed a place to hide for a bit and he said we could come here.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

We're friends of one of your students, Emma Perkins.

[He lied just a bit. He knew what would get them in.]

"Emma!? Is she alright? Hold on, I'll let you in!"

[The speaker crackles off and a beat or so passes before the door clicks and Paul quickly opens it, making sure Madeline gets inside before he does.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She steps in quickly, still holding his hand. She looks at Paul as he enters, and then looks at the inside of the place. It's interesting...]

Huh... This place seems nice... enough...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

It... sure is something. Stay close, I don't know what state he's in or what he'll do once he sees... me.

[He lightly squeezes Madeline's hand before starting down the hallway into the house greater, leading her behind him.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She holds his hand, squeezing a bit, and follows him.]

Alright, lead the way.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He leads her to the professor's living room, a sofa right by a fireplace with a portrait of presumably the professor hanging above it. A bit further in was a side room full of clutter, books, and chemistry odds and ends. On a corkboard on the wall was locations around hatchetfield all strung together by red thread to create an upside down star. The grey-haired man in a black turtleneck, the professor, was busy looking over something on the desk in front of the corkboard when they stepped in. Silently, Paul leaned down a bit and pointed to a hallway nearby.]

when i say so, i need you to run to the kitchen. it's right through there to the left. he keeps a roll of duct tape in his junk drawer. I need you to grab that and bring it back to me, okay?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks around the room, curious. I look over at Paul for a second, and nod, giving him a thumbs up. I then look back over at the corkboard, wondering what it's about.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Pictures on the corkboard show different locations around town. The theater, Hatchetfield High School, the CCRP building, the mall and the old Waylon place. The threads imply they're all connected in some way.]

[Paul takes a deep, unneeded breath to steady himself and straightens back up.]

Professor...

[The Professor turns quickly, briefly noticing the two as he waves them closer.]

Yes, come in. Come in. You weren't followed were you? You really shouldn't trust what you've seen out there, those things are not-

[He cuts himself off as he gets a proper look at them both. Paul specifically. The blue glow in Paul's eyes and the crack that webs out from the bridge of his nose across his cheeks.]

...human.

[He quickly reaches for his pocket and Paul pushes Madeline out of the way towards the kitchen.]

NOW! GO!!

[gothicnerdxd]

[I nod, and run to the kitchen. I immediately check for the duct tape, and I do find it. I run back into the living room, to Paul.]

I GOT IT!

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[A gunshot rings out from the living room while Madeline's in the kitchen, Madeline returning to Paul pinning Hidgens to the floor with a knee on his back and one hand holding Hidgens' arms behind his back, Paul's other hand gripping his shoulder as something blue leaked from between his fingers. Paul looked up, giving Madeline a quick nod.]

Perfect, bring it over.

[Hidgens writhes under Paul's surprising strength, gritting his teeth.]

It was a trick! You're one of them, you're both infected! You're here to make me one of you!

Shut up, we're saving your ass by even being here!

[gothicnerdxd]

[She runs to Paul, giving him the tape. She then looks at the scene in front of her a bit longer.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Thank you.

[Paul takes the tape with the hand he was using to hold down Hidgens, his knee apparently doing the job just fine, and rips it open with his teeth as his other hand stayed gripping his shoulder. He dropped the tape and left it hanging from his teeth as he picked Hidgens up, sticking the tape to his back and starting to tie his arms against his sides.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She watches, looking at Paul, and then at Hidgens.]

Do you want me to help?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Oh, sure.

[He passes the tape back over.]

Here, keep wrapping him up, I'll hold him still.

[Hidgens fought and struggled as much as a man his age was able to. He looked up to catch Madeline's gaze.]

Dear girl, if you have a shred of humanity left in you, I beg you to free me! This man is not who you think he is, he's been replaced! Rebuilt!

Shut. Up.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She takes the tape, and starts to wrap him up. Although, she also takes an occasional look at Paul.]

Paul, what is he talking about?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul moved Hidgens' lower arms to cross behind his back, his gaze not meeting Madeline's.]

I'm not going to tell you he's wrong or talking nonsense, if that's what you're looking for.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She continues wrapping up Hidgens, thinking for a moment.]

Uhm, ok then... Tell me when to stop with Hidgens.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He nods, holding Hidgens' arms in place with his free hand. The other moved from his shoulder to tucked tight against his suit jacket. Where he was holding his shoulder had a hole in the jacket and shirt underneath, but the skin underneath looked unaffected... yet as pale and corpse-looking as the rest of him. The cloth around the hole is stained with blue.]

Here, come wrap his arms together. We'll get his legs after.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She nods a bit, and starts wrapping his arms together.]

Alright... How did you heal that fast?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul takes a deep breath. Hearing it, one can realize he hadn't been breathing most of this time. As Hidgens' arms were wrapped, he moved around to hold Hidgens' legs together in a sitting position.]

We have to hide from the things out there because we can't fight them. Because they heal fast. Because they can keep moving with injuries that'll kill a normal person. Bullet wounds, broken skulls...

[His eyes sank down to Hidgens midsection.]

torn out guts...

[Hidgens' eyes widened and he struggled harder.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[I nod, trying to process it, but I start taping up Hidgens' legs.]

Okay then...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[As the Professor's legs were being bound, Paul moved away and grabbed a chair, moving Hidgens onto it so he was at least somewhat comfortable. Once he secured Hidgens to it, Paul went to the kitchen himself to presumably clean whatever blue substance was on his hand and clothes. Hidgens' eyes narrow down at Madeline.]

What do you intend to do with me? Do you plan to kill me in my own home? Turn me into one of those things?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at Hidgens, confused, as she sits down across from him.]

I honestly dont know what were intending. I'm only here because I wanted away from whats out there. Now, do you know what that blue shit was?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Hidgens' eyes flicked from the hall to the kitchen, then back to Madeline.]

I can't say for certain, but I know it's not if this world. I'd never had a physical specimen to study before, only visions, but by the speed of its spread and the turning of the average citizen to a musical monster, I believe it to be a highly contagious pathogen. One carriers are inclined to spread at all costs. By the looks of your companion there, girl, you may not have long before you're one of them yourself! You must get away from him, it is the only hope to remain yourself!

[gothicnerdxd]

[She stares at him for a moment.]

But he hasn't done anything music related... And all of the others who've been like this have been a lot more hostile...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He struggles against his binds.]

It's an act, girl! It goes beyond music into performance, full acting. He is decieving you with a mask of normalcy! And have you not heard him humming? The sound he makes when he does not speak to appease the parasite that has taken over his flesh? He is playing the long game with you, my dear! Lull you into a false sense of security before turning you into something like him when you're at your most vulnerable!

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks down, fists clenching a bit, refusing to believe it. I mean, Paul wouldn't hurt her... Right?]

No... No, he wouldn't act like this. Everybody else was outright trying to kill or take over, but he's... He's just trying to help me get away from them.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

In an apocalypse scenario, life or death... are you really willing to take that chance? One can trust only themself at a time like this, my dear. Anyone else can throw you to the wolves in an instant! Or in this case, throw you to the choir.

[Hidgens goes quiet as Paul's footsteps return, Paul stepping back into the room. He carried a box of latex gloves, apparently having found them in the kitchen.]

these probably would have been useful earlier. Oh well, I'll keep them around in case one of us gets more blue shit on our hands.

[He looks up, his expression softening seeing Madeline's conflicted look.]

I-Is everything okay?

[gothicnerdxd]

[she looks at him, and nods. Her expression brightened up just a bit when he came in.]

Yeah... Yeah, everything is fine.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Hidgens gaze shifts warily to Madeline, but Paul gives a smile. One that doesn't look entirely sure of her words, but tries to be reassuring.]

Okay.... uh- we should get him to the basement. He has some weird... lab or study rooms down there. Places to keep experiments. Hell if I know why he has them.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at Paul, and stands up. She looks towards Hidgens, and back to Paul.]

Alright, lead the way.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul gives a nod and steps over behind the chair he attached Hidgens to, picking it up with little effort and starting to walk down the hallways.]

[Hidgens thrashed and struggled, clenching his teeth.]

Unhand me! You foul being! You plan to isolate and torture me before turning me!? You have no morality!

We plan to put you in your own safehouse and keep you from getting turned at all. Trust me, you'd be more of a problem if you were turned.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She watches for a moment, before following Paul.]

So, we're putting him in the safehouse. Are we also staying in there?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Kind of... this whole place is technically the safehouse, but there are some more secure... I don't want to say cells, but... lockable, strong rooms... in the basement. It's where we'll put him so he doesn't do anything stupid, and where we'll put me if things go from bad to worse.

[He leads her down a large staircase, the atmosphere turning from homey to more of a laboratory. Cold and sterile.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She keeps following him, looking around. She's quiet, almost alarmingly so.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul just stays focused, marching down a hallway that seems familiar to him and eventually turning to a room, opening a door into an observation room that looks into what can only be described as an interrogation room. Pushing a button on a console, a door slides open to the room beyond and Paul marches Hidgens' chair inside, setting him down facing the glass that looks into the room.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[Maddie watches from outside the room, albeit curious to keep exploring. While Paul is setting Hidgens down, she ends up wandering off, down the hall.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Even with the pure size of this place seen from the outside, it still felt bigger within. The hallways sprawl and rooms almost seem to repeat. A lounge, a bar, a kitchen, another observation room, a lab room with vials, notes, and beakers scattered here and there like a mad scientist had torn through it. The only pristine thing was a stack of perfectly neat papers sitting on a desk.]

[Paul situated Hidgens into a decently comfortable position before pulling out the tape again.]

Alright, let's make sure you don't fuck things up by talking to your Alexa this time.

Oh, right! ALE-

[Paul slaps a strip of tape over Hidgens' mouth, gritting his teeth.]

Nope! No more of that.

[gothicnerdxd]

[Maddie continues to explore, but eventually, Hidgens notices that she's no longer near the room. She is very likely about to get lost.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Hidgens' eyes linger beyond Paul, to the hallway where Madeline was no longer visible from. He makes no indication of this to Paul, just hoping being lost in his labyrinthine lab is a better fate than whatever this monster had planned for her.]

[Paul steps out of the room, pressing the button to close and secure the door to the interrogation room again before letting out an unneeded breath.]

Okay, now we should be fine for a while. We'll be okay.

[He looks back where Madeline was previously, freezing when he can't see her.]

Madeline?

[He moves out to the hallway, looking up and down it.]

Madeline?? MADELINE!?

[gothicnerdxd]

[Maddie continues exploring, but is, thankfully, starting to head back in the direction of the lab. She hears Paul yelling, and starts to follow it.]

Paul?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul untenses, starting in the direction he heard Maddie's voice.]

Madeline! Where did you go? You dont know this place... I barely know beyond this far, you're gonna get lost.

[gothicnerdxd]

[Maddie keeps following the voice, getting closer.]

I was lost for a bit... Did you know they have another lab here?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul keeps moving forward, but slows down considerably.]

I don't doubt it, I wondered where he went off to to study that blue shit the first time we came here. I never really ask questions because, well, I was panicked and needed a drink.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She also keeps moving forward, not slowing down.]

Well, I guess that's not surprising when you say that. I am still wondering what the blue shit is, but we can work on it.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

It's... the best way I can describe it is alien. Something that's definitely not from this world and shouldn't be here at all, but its here anyway. The offshoots of some... thing. And it's poison, consuming it in any way will make you sick. I think touching it is fine, but... you'd definitely have to wash your hands after handling it. It's gross...

and im made of it.

[He mumbles the last part to himself, thankful Madeline is further away as he keeps moving towards her voice.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She nods a bit, not really hearing the last part. She keeps following his voice, eventually finding him.]

Oh, there you are!

[She runs over to him, smiling a bit.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He gets a relieved look as Madeline runs up to him.]

Hey! Okay, what I was saying before I realized you were gone, we should be fine for a while now. And as long as the fence outside holds, I won't need to be shut away for a while. Uh... are you hungry?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks down for a second, because she is actually pretty hungry.]

... Yeah, lets go eat.

[She starts to walk back, towards the kitchen.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He nods, following her.]

God, I hope he has something actually edible. Not just... canned things for the apocalypse he was planning for. Hopefully something fresh, at least.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She leads him to the kitchen, and there is some fresh food. Not a lot, but enough.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul looks relieved, looking around the kitchen and checking through the fridge and cabinets.]

I gotta admit I'm... not the best chef so if you want something specific, I can try but it definitely won't be the best. I can make pasta, eggs, and some easy things, but... that's about it. Ooh, a coffee pot!

[gothicnerdxd]

[She thinks for a moment, before smiling a bit.]

Lets do eggs, they're really good.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Gotcha. Let's see if he has them...

[He opens the fridge, eyes flicking over its contents again.]

Yes! Damn, he is really prepared. How do you like yours?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She smiles a bit, looking at him.]

Honestly, I'll take them any way, but I usually prefer scrambled.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Oh good, the arguably easiest way to make them. I can definitely do that.

[He takes the egg carton and butter and moves over to the stove, looking around for a moment before finding a pan and putting it on the stove.]

I'll probably make some for Hidge, too. He's gonna be in there for a good while so he'll need some food.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She watches, occasionally helping him with food. She also decides to make some coffee for him, and maybe herself, just to try it.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[It's not long before Paul plates Madeline's food and sets some aside for Hidgens later, notably making none for himself. He sets it over on a kitchen table.]

There you go. Oh- you having coffee with it?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at the coffee pot, which is currently brewing.]

I mean, I've never really had coffee before. Why not try it?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Fair enough, since it's here and available. I usually take mine black with nothing in it, but that's usually bitter as hell for everyone else, so others add milk and sugar or creamer to it. My nephew doesn't have coffee very often, but whenever he does he likes his tooth-rottingly sweet.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She smiles, and pours two cups of coffee. She gives one to Paul, and then takes a sip. It's actually not that bad.]

huh... This is actually pretty good.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Oh, thank you!

[When she voices her opinion of the drink, Paul pauses for a second, raising a brow and looking Madeline up and down before letting out a surprised hum.]

Really? It's pretty bitter, you like bitter tastes?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She shrugs a bit, smiling, and taking another sip.]

Usually not, but yeah, it's actually pretty good.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[His eyes narrow at that. Could... she suddenly like it for the same reason it's all Paul can stand to drink anymore? The persistent bitter taste in his mouth? He shakes his head, putting the thought out of his mind and returning to just having a quiet breakfast.]

Yeah. I like it a lot.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She continues to drink the coffee while eating, seemingly enjoying it.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul takes a seat, drinking his own cup of coffee before his content smile starts to fade.]

did... Hidgens say anything to you? About... what he thinks is going on, I mean.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She pauses for a moment, before setting her cup down.]

He said something about visions, but... He also said to get away from you. I wouldn't, you've been keeping me safe, but I just... It's weird.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Mmh... yeah, he's... weird, but I see where he's coming from. I can't really say if his "visions" are correct or not, but... he mostly had it right, at least.

[gothicnerdxd]

huh... Well, i guess we'll know if anything else ends up correct...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He sighs, looking down.]

Well... most of what he says will happen definitely will. Or will try to, anyway. I just dont know if there's more he saw that he kept to himself or has yet to tell anyone. I could probably tell you most of what's going on out there, anyway. Third time around might make me an expert, by now.

[gothicnerdxd]

[she looks down, taking a sip of her coffee.]

Alright then...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[His jaw tightens at her reaction, looking down into his coffee.]

Uh- s-sorry. And sorry you got wrapped up in all this. I really didnt expect it to happen again. Dont even know if this time is my fault.

[gothicnerdxd]

[she looks over, placing her cup down.]

I mean, I'm pretty sure it isn't your fault.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He looks away.]

I don't know for certain, though. If I'm already like this when no one else was and I can't remember how it all started, there could have been a point in time where I... went under and started it all. I mean, it could have been the meteor again, too, but if not I would be the patient zero since I have this already!

[gothicnerdxd]

[I look at him, placing a hand in his.]

Paul... Even if it is your fault, I won't abandon you. You're whats been keeping me safe in this.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He lets out a small sigh, smiling just a bit.]

thank you. and I'm going to keep you safe to the best of my ability as long as I can.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She smiles, and leans against him a bit.]

[gothicnerdxd]

what the fuck- WHY ARE THE PEOPLE AT BEANIES SINGING?! I JUST WANTED A HOT CHOCOLATE :(

@suddenly-likes-musicals I just wanted a hot chocolate 😭

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Get out of there! Don't drink anything they give you, they've infected it! Run as far as you can and hide if you need to! Get out of downtown!!

[gothicnerdxd]

A-alright... I'm right outside downtown. The hot cocoa was blue for some reason... W-where do I go next?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Anywhere away from people. If you can leave Hatchetfield, do it. It's going to keep spreading, you need to stay away from it.

[gothicnerdxd]

If you could, could you come with me..? Please..? I dont want to be alone...

[She looks to him, obviously nervous.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

I....

yeah, I'll come with you. Might... might make it more dangerous, I don't know how much of a beacon I'll be to them, but... at least I can help keep you safe while I'm awake.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She smiles, grabbing onto his hand.]

Well then, lead the way...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul lets out an unneeded breath, just nice to know he still can breathe if he chooses.]

god, i hope i can leave hatchetfield.

[He squeezes Madeline's hand and starts down the street, making his way towards the bridge out of Hatchetfield.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[Madeline follows, quietly, looking around at the town as they're leaving, breathing in as she tries to calm down.]

I hope we can too...

[She continues walking, fidgeting with something in her jacket pocket.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

I... I think you'll be fine. As long as the bridge is down, at least. Me, on the other hand... I don't know if there are other factors keeping me here. Are you okay? Did they hurt you?

[gothicnerdxd]

They didn't, I just... I just want to survive this nightmare... And I don't want to survive alone...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He swallows dryly, eyes focused on the sidewalk.]

I... didn't survive the first couple times I went through this. Hopefully third time's the charm, but... If I tell you to, I need you to get as far away from me as you can, okay?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at him, tilting her head, unaware that her hands have begun to shake slightly.]

Oh... Okay then... I guess I could...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He exhales a relieved breath.]

Thank you. I know, I really dont want it to happen either... but we have to be ready for anything.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She continues walking, but squeezes his hand, not wanting to let go.]

Well then, lets continue...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Mhm.

[Paul walks with purpose in the direction of the bridge, careful to scan around corners as they go in case of an ambush.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She keeps following him, keeping an eye out for anyone who may be infected. With her spare hand, shes drumming against her leg, a sort of nervous stim.]

Is it safe..?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul's free hand subconsciously drums on his leg as well, following the taps and rhythm that Madeline creates with hers without realizing.]

So far. But I'm a walking tracker to them. They could be anywhere.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks to him, nodding slightly at that, continuing the subconscious drumming against her leg.]

True... I guess we'll need to be as safe as possible...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

That we d-

[Paul stops, eyes flicking around as the music builds in his head. A sign that more of the Hive is nearby. He lightly squeezes Madeline's hand.]

They're close. We've gotta hurry up.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at him, and nods, speeding up and letting him lead us away from the Hive. She keeps holding onto his hand, no longer drumming against her leg.]

A-alright... Lets go then.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He goes as fast as he can, though still makes sure Madeline can keep pace with him. The music only grows and grows, gets louder and louder as the Hive zeroes in on his location. Paul grits his teeth and just tries to keep focused on the path ahead.]

come on, come on...

[gothicnerdxd]

[She keeps following him, running as close to his pace as I can, beginning to hear the music as well.]

We can do this...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Alright, it's just ahead, we just have to- Fuck!

[He skids to a halt before the bridge, watching as it begins to raise and Hive drones start to block the way.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She freezes, squeezing his hand tighter than ever, as the bridge raises.]

N-no... Shit...

[She begins to back away from the Hive that were blocking the way, and immediately begins looking for another way out.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul twitches as he fights the call of the music, looking around for another way as well.]

Fuck... fuck, now what? We- we can't do the high school, that's going to be overrun... nothing downtown... something FAR from the theater. M-Maybe Hidgens'? Ugh, he's going to be a problem again, too...

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at him, nervous but confused.]

Who? A-and what do you mean... AGAIN?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

I told you, I've been through this all before. But the first couple times, I didn't survive it! Hidgens is... h-he's an insane shut-in weirdo in the woods but his house is basically a doomsday bunker. Thats what kept me in one place and my friends fairly safe for most of the day. The only problem is dealing with Hidgens himself, which I really don't want to do!

[gothicnerdxd]

a-alright, its a fair point. He's probably gonna be our best bet, but I hope we dont have to really deal with him...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

We could... tie him up, I guess? Lock him in a room... he might still have access to voice controls though. Fuck, this is exactly why my buddy took care of him last time.

[He shakes his head.]

Fuck it, it's our best chance and we'll work it out as we go. Come on!

[He starts in the other direction, tugging on Madeline to follow as he set a path for the Witchwoods.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She follows, looking around at the witchwoods as they run.]

Alright, I'll keep an eye out for the hive.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Thank you. I remember where his house is and it should be a straight shot, only problem is if we get cut off by the Hive on the way there.

[He runs down the street, following it straight across uptown and into a path into the Witchwoods.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She tries to keep up, while still keeping an eye out for the Hive.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He books it as fast as he can, still careful to keep Madeline's hand and trying not to drag her. The music iss loud. It pounds with his footsteps. Screams to him the melody of a happy morning. A Lah Dee Dah Dah Day! His vision clouds and his humming gets louder, but he pushes on. No one was going to get hurt on his watch. Not this time.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She keeps running, as fast as she can, and she hears the music. She squeezes his hand a bit, still looking around.]

Are we close?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

What-?

[He looks back, his perception snapping back to reality as he processes the question.]

Oh, yeah. It should be just over here.

[They reach a large fence, Paul touching it quickly to check if it was electrified before letting out a relieved breath.]

Okay, step into my hands. I'll hoist you over.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at him, and then nods a bit. She steps onto his hands, and looks at him.]

Alright... On the count of 3?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He nods.]

Okay, One...

[gothicnerdxd]

[She prepares, keeping her balance.]

Two...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Three!

[He hefts Madeline up, probably with more force than he was expecting as she was nearly thrown on top of the fence.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[I get a bit surprised, but I grab onto the fence before I can land on top of it. I let go once I'm on the other side, to unlock it and let him in]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul moves inside the fence quick, locking it back behind him as he saw a few infected pokong through the trees. He took Madeline's hand again and rushed to the door of the- frankly more mansion than house, ringing the doorbell as he clenched his jaw.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She holds onto his hand, looking at it. She fidgets with her other hand, waiting for Hidgens to answer.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[A small comms speaker squeaks to life with a static noise.]

"Who is it!?"

Professor Hidgens!

"Don't lie to me whoever you are! I'm Professor Hidgens!"

[Paul facepalms with his free hand.]

right, the fucking script...

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at Paul, confused, before speaking.]

Uhm, my name is Madeline. I'm with Paul. We just needed a place to hide for a bit and he said we could come here.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

We're friends of one of your students, Emma Perkins.

[He lied just a bit. He knew what would get them in.]

"Emma!? Is she alright? Hold on, I'll let you in!"

[The speaker crackles off and a beat or so passes before the door clicks and Paul quickly opens it, making sure Madeline gets inside before he does.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She steps in quickly, still holding his hand. She looks at Paul as he enters, and then looks at the inside of the place. It's interesting...]

Huh... This place seems nice... enough...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

It... sure is something. Stay close, I don't know what state he's in or what he'll do once he sees... me.

[He lightly squeezes Madeline's hand before starting down the hallway into the house greater, leading her behind him.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She holds his hand, squeezing a bit, and follows him.]

Alright, lead the way.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He leads her to the professor's living room, a sofa right by a fireplace with a portrait of presumably the professor hanging above it. A bit further in was a side room full of clutter, books, and chemistry odds and ends. On a corkboard on the wall was locations around hatchetfield all strung together by red thread to create an upside down star. The grey-haired man in a black turtleneck, the professor, was busy looking over something on the desk in front of the corkboard when they stepped in. Silently, Paul leaned down a bit and pointed to a hallway nearby.]

when i say so, i need you to run to the kitchen. it's right through there to the left. he keeps a roll of duct tape in his junk drawer. I need you to grab that and bring it back to me, okay?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks around the room, curious. I look over at Paul for a second, and nod, giving him a thumbs up. I then look back over at the corkboard, wondering what it's about.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Pictures on the corkboard show different locations around town. The theater, Hatchetfield High School, the CCRP building, the mall and the old Waylon place. The threads imply they're all connected in some way.]

[Paul takes a deep, unneeded breath to steady himself and straightens back up.]

Professor...

[The Professor turns quickly, briefly noticing the two as he waves them closer.]

Yes, come in. Come in. You weren't followed were you? You really shouldn't trust what you've seen out there, those things are not-

[He cuts himself off as he gets a proper look at them both. Paul specifically. The blue glow in Paul's eyes and the crack that webs out from the bridge of his nose across his cheeks.]

...human.

[He quickly reaches for his pocket and Paul pushes Madeline out of the way towards the kitchen.]

NOW! GO!!

[gothicnerdxd]

[I nod, and run to the kitchen. I immediately check for the duct tape, and I do find it. I run back into the living room, to Paul.]

I GOT IT!

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[A gunshot rings out from the living room while Madeline's in the kitchen, Madeline returning to Paul pinning Hidgens to the floor with a knee on his back and one hand holding Hidgens' arms behind his back, Paul's other hand gripping his shoulder as something blue leaked from between his fingers. Paul looked up, giving Madeline a quick nod.]

Perfect, bring it over.

[Hidgens writhes under Paul's surprising strength, gritting his teeth.]

It was a trick! You're one of them, you're both infected! You're here to make me one of you!

Shut up, we're saving your ass by even being here!

[gothicnerdxd]

[She runs to Paul, giving him the tape. She then looks at the scene in front of her a bit longer.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Thank you.

[Paul takes the tape with the hand he was using to hold down Hidgens, his knee apparently doing the job just fine, and rips it open with his teeth as his other hand stayed gripping his shoulder. He dropped the tape and left it hanging from his teeth as he picked Hidgens up, sticking the tape to his back and starting to tie his arms against his sides.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She watches, looking at Paul, and then at Hidgens.]

Do you want me to help?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Oh, sure.

[He passes the tape back over.]

Here, keep wrapping him up, I'll hold him still.

[Hidgens fought and struggled as much as a man his age was able to. He looked up to catch Madeline's gaze.]

Dear girl, if you have a shred of humanity left in you, I beg you to free me! This man is not who you think he is, he's been replaced! Rebuilt!

Shut. Up.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She takes the tape, and starts to wrap him up. Although, she also takes an occasional look at Paul.]

Paul, what is he talking about?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul moved Hidgens' lower arms to cross behind his back, his gaze not meeting Madeline's.]

I'm not going to tell you he's wrong or talking nonsense, if that's what you're looking for.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She continues wrapping up Hidgens, thinking for a moment.]

Uhm, ok then... Tell me when to stop with Hidgens.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He nods, holding Hidgens' arms in place with his free hand. The other moved from his shoulder to tucked tight against his suit jacket. Where he was holding his shoulder had a hole in the jacket and shirt underneath, but the skin underneath looked unaffected... yet as pale and corpse-looking as the rest of him. The cloth around the hole is stained with blue.]

Here, come wrap his arms together. We'll get his legs after.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She nods a bit, and starts wrapping his arms together.]

Alright... How did you heal that fast?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul takes a deep breath. Hearing it, one can realize he hadn't been breathing most of this time. As Hidgens' arms were wrapped, he moved around to hold Hidgens' legs together in a sitting position.]

We have to hide from the things out there because we can't fight them. Because they heal fast. Because they can keep moving with injuries that'll kill a normal person. Bullet wounds, broken skulls...

[His eyes sank down to Hidgens midsection.]

torn out guts...

[Hidgens' eyes widened and he struggled harder.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[I nod, trying to process it, but I start taping up Hidgens' legs.]

Okay then...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[As the Professor's legs were being bound, Paul moved away and grabbed a chair, moving Hidgens onto it so he was at least somewhat comfortable. Once he secured Hidgens to it, Paul went to the kitchen himself to presumably clean whatever blue substance was on his hand and clothes. Hidgens' eyes narrow down at Madeline.]

What do you intend to do with me? Do you plan to kill me in my own home? Turn me into one of those things?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at Hidgens, confused, as she sits down across from him.]

I honestly dont know what were intending. I'm only here because I wanted away from whats out there. Now, do you know what that blue shit was?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Hidgens' eyes flicked from the hall to the kitchen, then back to Madeline.]

I can't say for certain, but I know it's not if this world. I'd never had a physical specimen to study before, only visions, but by the speed of its spread and the turning of the average citizen to a musical monster, I believe it to be a highly contagious pathogen. One carriers are inclined to spread at all costs. By the looks of your companion there, girl, you may not have long before you're one of them yourself! You must get away from him, it is the only hope to remain yourself!

[gothicnerdxd]

[She stares at him for a moment.]

But he hasn't done anything music related... And all of the others who've been like this have been a lot more hostile...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He struggles against his binds.]

It's an act, girl! It goes beyond music into performance, full acting. He is decieving you with a mask of normalcy! And have you not heard him humming? The sound he makes when he does not speak to appease the parasite that has taken over his flesh? He is playing the long game with you, my dear! Lull you into a false sense of security before turning you into something like him when you're at your most vulnerable!

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks down, fists clenching a bit, refusing to believe it. I mean, Paul wouldn't hurt her... Right?]

No... No, he wouldn't act like this. Everybody else was outright trying to kill or take over, but he's... He's just trying to help me get away from them.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

In an apocalypse scenario, life or death... are you really willing to take that chance? One can trust only themself at a time like this, my dear. Anyone else can throw you to the wolves in an instant! Or in this case, throw you to the choir.

[Hidgens goes quiet as Paul's footsteps return, Paul stepping back into the room. He carried a box of latex gloves, apparently having found them in the kitchen.]

these probably would have been useful earlier. Oh well, I'll keep them around in case one of us gets more blue shit on our hands.

[He looks up, his expression softening seeing Madeline's conflicted look.]

I-Is everything okay?

[gothicnerdxd]

[she looks at him, and nods. Her expression brightened up just a bit when he came in.]

Yeah... Yeah, everything is fine.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Hidgens gaze shifts warily to Madeline, but Paul gives a smile. One that doesn't look entirely sure of her words, but tries to be reassuring.]

Okay.... uh- we should get him to the basement. He has some weird... lab or study rooms down there. Places to keep experiments. Hell if I know why he has them.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at Paul, and stands up. She looks towards Hidgens, and back to Paul.]

Alright, lead the way.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul gives a nod and steps over behind the chair he attached Hidgens to, picking it up with little effort and starting to walk down the hallways.]

[Hidgens thrashed and struggled, clenching his teeth.]

Unhand me! You foul being! You plan to isolate and torture me before turning me!? You have no morality!

We plan to put you in your own safehouse and keep you from getting turned at all. Trust me, you'd be more of a problem if you were turned.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She watches for a moment, before following Paul.]

So, we're putting him in the safehouse. Are we also staying in there?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Kind of... this whole place is technically the safehouse, but there are some more secure... I don't want to say cells, but... lockable, strong rooms... in the basement. It's where we'll put him so he doesn't do anything stupid, and where we'll put me if things go from bad to worse.

[He leads her down a large staircase, the atmosphere turning from homey to more of a laboratory. Cold and sterile.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She keeps following him, looking around. She's quiet, almost alarmingly so.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul just stays focused, marching down a hallway that seems familiar to him and eventually turning to a room, opening a door into an observation room that looks into what can only be described as an interrogation room. Pushing a button on a console, a door slides open to the room beyond and Paul marches Hidgens' chair inside, setting him down facing the glass that looks into the room.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[Maddie watches from outside the room, albeit curious to keep exploring. While Paul is setting Hidgens down, she ends up wandering off, down the hall.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Even with the pure size of this place seen from the outside, it still felt bigger within. The hallways sprawl and rooms almost seem to repeat. A lounge, a bar, a kitchen, another observation room, a lab room with vials, notes, and beakers scattered here and there like a mad scientist had torn through it. The only pristine thing was a stack of perfectly neat papers sitting on a desk.]

[Paul situated Hidgens into a decently comfortable position before pulling out the tape again.]

Alright, let's make sure you don't fuck things up by talking to your Alexa this time.

Oh, right! ALE-

[Paul slaps a strip of tape over Hidgens' mouth, gritting his teeth.]

Nope! No more of that.

[gothicnerdxd]

[Maddie continues to explore, but eventually, Hidgens notices that she's no longer near the room. She is very likely about to get lost.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Hidgens' eyes linger beyond Paul, to the hallway where Madeline was no longer visible from. He makes no indication of this to Paul, just hoping being lost in his labyrinthine lab is a better fate than whatever this monster had planned for her.]

[Paul steps out of the room, pressing the button to close and secure the door to the interrogation room again before letting out an unneeded breath.]

Okay, now we should be fine for a while. We'll be okay.

[He looks back where Madeline was previously, freezing when he can't see her.]

Madeline?

[He moves out to the hallway, looking up and down it.]

Madeline?? MADELINE!?

[gothicnerdxd]

[Maddie continues exploring, but is, thankfully, starting to head back in the direction of the lab. She hears Paul yelling, and starts to follow it.]

Paul?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul untenses, starting in the direction he heard Maddie's voice.]

Madeline! Where did you go? You dont know this place... I barely know beyond this far, you're gonna get lost.

[gothicnerdxd]

[Maddie keeps following the voice, getting closer.]

I was lost for a bit... Did you know they have another lab here?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul keeps moving forward, but slows down considerably.]

I don't doubt it, I wondered where he went off to to study that blue shit the first time we came here. I never really ask questions because, well, I was panicked and needed a drink.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She also keeps moving forward, not slowing down.]

Well, I guess that's not surprising when you say that. I am still wondering what the blue shit is, but we can work on it.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

It's... the best way I can describe it is alien. Something that's definitely not from this world and shouldn't be here at all, but its here anyway. The offshoots of some... thing. And it's poison, consuming it in any way will make you sick. I think touching it is fine, but... you'd definitely have to wash your hands after handling it. It's gross...

and im made of it.

[He mumbles the last part to himself, thankful Madeline is further away as he keeps moving towards her voice.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She nods a bit, not really hearing the last part. She keeps following his voice, eventually finding him.]

Oh, there you are!

[She runs over to him, smiling a bit.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He gets a relieved look as Madeline runs up to him.]

Hey! Okay, what I was saying before I realized you were gone, we should be fine for a while now. And as long as the fence outside holds, I won't need to be shut away for a while. Uh... are you hungry?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks down for a second, because she is actually pretty hungry.]

... Yeah, lets go eat.

[She starts to walk back, towards the kitchen.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He nods, following her.]

God, I hope he has something actually edible. Not just... canned things for the apocalypse he was planning for. Hopefully something fresh, at least.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She leads him to the kitchen, and there is some fresh food. Not a lot, but enough.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul looks relieved, looking around the kitchen and checking through the fridge and cabinets.]

I gotta admit I'm... not the best chef so if you want something specific, I can try but it definitely won't be the best. I can make pasta, eggs, and some easy things, but... that's about it. Ooh, a coffee pot!

[gothicnerdxd]

[She thinks for a moment, before smiling a bit.]

Lets do eggs, they're really good.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Gotcha. Let's see if he has them...

[He opens the fridge, eyes flicking over its contents again.]

Yes! Damn, he is really prepared. How do you like yours?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She smiles a bit, looking at him.]

Honestly, I'll take them any way, but I usually prefer scrambled.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Oh good, the arguably easiest way to make them. I can definitely do that.

[He takes the egg carton and butter and moves over to the stove, looking around for a moment before finding a pan and putting it on the stove.]

I'll probably make some for Hidge, too. He's gonna be in there for a good while so he'll need some food.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She watches, occasionally helping him with food. She also decides to make some coffee for him, and maybe herself, just to try it.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[It's not long before Paul plates Madeline's food and sets some aside for Hidgens later, notably making none for himself. He sets it over on a kitchen table.]

There you go. Oh- you having coffee with it?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at the coffee pot, which is currently brewing.]

I mean, I've never really had coffee before. Why not try it?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Fair enough, since it's here and available. I usually take mine black with nothing in it, but that's usually bitter as hell for everyone else, so others add milk and sugar or creamer to it. My nephew doesn't have coffee very often, but whenever he does he likes his tooth-rottingly sweet.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She smiles, and pours two cups of coffee. She gives one to Paul, and then takes a sip. It's actually not that bad.]

huh... This is actually pretty good.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Oh, thank you!

[When she voices her opinion of the drink, Paul pauses for a second, raising a brow and looking Madeline up and down before letting out a surprised hum.]

Really? It's pretty bitter, you like bitter tastes?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She shrugs a bit, smiling, and taking another sip.]

Usually not, but yeah, it's actually pretty good.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[His eyes narrow at that. Could... she suddenly like it for the same reason it's all Paul can stand to drink anymore? The persistent bitter taste in his mouth? He shakes his head, putting the thought out of his mind and returning to just having a quiet breakfast.]

Yeah. I like it a lot.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She continues to drink the coffee while eating, seemingly enjoying it.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul takes a seat, drinking his own cup of coffee before his content smile starts to fade.]

did... Hidgens say anything to you? About... what he thinks is going on, I mean.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She pauses for a moment, before setting her cup down.]

He said something about visions, but... He also said to get away from you. I wouldn't, you've been keeping me safe, but I just... It's weird.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Mmh... yeah, he's... weird, but I see where he's coming from. I can't really say if his "visions" are correct or not, but... he mostly had it right, at least.

[gothicnerdxd]

huh... Well, i guess we'll know if anything else ends up correct...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He sighs, looking down.]

Well... most of what he says will happen definitely will. Or will try to, anyway. I just dont know if there's more he saw that he kept to himself or has yet to tell anyone. I could probably tell you most of what's going on out there, anyway. Third time around might make me an expert, by now.

[gothicnerdxd]

[she looks down, taking a sip of her coffee.]

Alright then...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[His jaw tightens at her reaction, looking down into his coffee.]

Uh- s-sorry. And sorry you got wrapped up in all this. I really didnt expect it to happen again. Dont even know if this time is my fault.

[gothicnerdxd]

[she looks over, placing her cup down.]

I mean, I'm pretty sure it isn't your fault.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He looks away.]

I don't know for certain, though. If I'm already like this when no one else was and I can't remember how it all started, there could have been a point in time where I... went under and started it all. I mean, it could have been the meteor again, too, but if not I would be the patient zero since I have this already!

[gothicnerdxd]

[I look at him, placing a hand in his.]

Paul... Even if it is your fault, I won't abandon you. You're whats been keeping me safe in this.

[sheislucifer]

let me make myself very clear, on this blog its:

fuck donald trump

fuck ICE

immigrants are not illegal

free palestine

black lives have and will always matter

trans rights forever and always

pro choice

healthcare should be free

house the homeless

keep religion out of schools

LGBTQ+ rights

fuck the tories

if you dont agree, fuck off.

[stringbean-the-octokitten]

I wanna pet the kibby

Meow?

He curiously scurries over to the person

[gothicnerdxd]

[she begins to pet him, smiling]

[gothicnerdxd]

what the fuck- WHY ARE THE PEOPLE AT BEANIES SINGING?! I JUST WANTED A HOT CHOCOLATE :(

@suddenly-likes-musicals I just wanted a hot chocolate 😭

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Get out of there! Don't drink anything they give you, they've infected it! Run as far as you can and hide if you need to! Get out of downtown!!

[gothicnerdxd]

A-alright... I'm right outside downtown. The hot cocoa was blue for some reason... W-where do I go next?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Anywhere away from people. If you can leave Hatchetfield, do it. It's going to keep spreading, you need to stay away from it.

[gothicnerdxd]

If you could, could you come with me..? Please..? I dont want to be alone...

[She looks to him, obviously nervous.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

I....

yeah, I'll come with you. Might... might make it more dangerous, I don't know how much of a beacon I'll be to them, but... at least I can help keep you safe while I'm awake.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She smiles, grabbing onto his hand.]

Well then, lead the way...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul lets out an unneeded breath, just nice to know he still can breathe if he chooses.]

god, i hope i can leave hatchetfield.

[He squeezes Madeline's hand and starts down the street, making his way towards the bridge out of Hatchetfield.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[Madeline follows, quietly, looking around at the town as they're leaving, breathing in as she tries to calm down.]

I hope we can too...

[She continues walking, fidgeting with something in her jacket pocket.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

I... I think you'll be fine. As long as the bridge is down, at least. Me, on the other hand... I don't know if there are other factors keeping me here. Are you okay? Did they hurt you?

[gothicnerdxd]

They didn't, I just... I just want to survive this nightmare... And I don't want to survive alone...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He swallows dryly, eyes focused on the sidewalk.]

I... didn't survive the first couple times I went through this. Hopefully third time's the charm, but... If I tell you to, I need you to get as far away from me as you can, okay?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at him, tilting her head, unaware that her hands have begun to shake slightly.]

Oh... Okay then... I guess I could...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He exhales a relieved breath.]

Thank you. I know, I really dont want it to happen either... but we have to be ready for anything.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She continues walking, but squeezes his hand, not wanting to let go.]

Well then, lets continue...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Mhm.

[Paul walks with purpose in the direction of the bridge, careful to scan around corners as they go in case of an ambush.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She keeps following him, keeping an eye out for anyone who may be infected. With her spare hand, shes drumming against her leg, a sort of nervous stim.]

Is it safe..?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul's free hand subconsciously drums on his leg as well, following the taps and rhythm that Madeline creates with hers without realizing.]

So far. But I'm a walking tracker to them. They could be anywhere.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks to him, nodding slightly at that, continuing the subconscious drumming against her leg.]

True... I guess we'll need to be as safe as possible...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

That we d-

[Paul stops, eyes flicking around as the music builds in his head. A sign that more of the Hive is nearby. He lightly squeezes Madeline's hand.]

They're close. We've gotta hurry up.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at him, and nods, speeding up and letting him lead us away from the Hive. She keeps holding onto his hand, no longer drumming against her leg.]

A-alright... Lets go then.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He goes as fast as he can, though still makes sure Madeline can keep pace with him. The music only grows and grows, gets louder and louder as the Hive zeroes in on his location. Paul grits his teeth and just tries to keep focused on the path ahead.]

come on, come on...

[gothicnerdxd]

[She keeps following him, running as close to his pace as I can, beginning to hear the music as well.]

We can do this...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Alright, it's just ahead, we just have to- Fuck!

[He skids to a halt before the bridge, watching as it begins to raise and Hive drones start to block the way.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She freezes, squeezing his hand tighter than ever, as the bridge raises.]

N-no... Shit...

[She begins to back away from the Hive that were blocking the way, and immediately begins looking for another way out.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul twitches as he fights the call of the music, looking around for another way as well.]

Fuck... fuck, now what? We- we can't do the high school, that's going to be overrun... nothing downtown... something FAR from the theater. M-Maybe Hidgens'? Ugh, he's going to be a problem again, too...

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at him, nervous but confused.]

Who? A-and what do you mean... AGAIN?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

I told you, I've been through this all before. But the first couple times, I didn't survive it! Hidgens is... h-he's an insane shut-in weirdo in the woods but his house is basically a doomsday bunker. Thats what kept me in one place and my friends fairly safe for most of the day. The only problem is dealing with Hidgens himself, which I really don't want to do!

[gothicnerdxd]

a-alright, its a fair point. He's probably gonna be our best bet, but I hope we dont have to really deal with him...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

We could... tie him up, I guess? Lock him in a room... he might still have access to voice controls though. Fuck, this is exactly why my buddy took care of him last time.

[He shakes his head.]

Fuck it, it's our best chance and we'll work it out as we go. Come on!

[He starts in the other direction, tugging on Madeline to follow as he set a path for the Witchwoods.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She follows, looking around at the witchwoods as they run.]

Alright, I'll keep an eye out for the hive.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Thank you. I remember where his house is and it should be a straight shot, only problem is if we get cut off by the Hive on the way there.

[He runs down the street, following it straight across uptown and into a path into the Witchwoods.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She tries to keep up, while still keeping an eye out for the Hive.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He books it as fast as he can, still careful to keep Madeline's hand and trying not to drag her. The music iss loud. It pounds with his footsteps. Screams to him the melody of a happy morning. A Lah Dee Dah Dah Day! His vision clouds and his humming gets louder, but he pushes on. No one was going to get hurt on his watch. Not this time.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She keeps running, as fast as she can, and she hears the music. She squeezes his hand a bit, still looking around.]

Are we close?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

What-?

[He looks back, his perception snapping back to reality as he processes the question.]

Oh, yeah. It should be just over here.

[They reach a large fence, Paul touching it quickly to check if it was electrified before letting out a relieved breath.]

Okay, step into my hands. I'll hoist you over.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at him, and then nods a bit. She steps onto his hands, and looks at him.]

Alright... On the count of 3?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He nods.]

Okay, One...

[gothicnerdxd]

[She prepares, keeping her balance.]

Two...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Three!

[He hefts Madeline up, probably with more force than he was expecting as she was nearly thrown on top of the fence.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[I get a bit surprised, but I grab onto the fence before I can land on top of it. I let go once I'm on the other side, to unlock it and let him in]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul moves inside the fence quick, locking it back behind him as he saw a few infected pokong through the trees. He took Madeline's hand again and rushed to the door of the- frankly more mansion than house, ringing the doorbell as he clenched his jaw.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She holds onto his hand, looking at it. She fidgets with her other hand, waiting for Hidgens to answer.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[A small comms speaker squeaks to life with a static noise.]

"Who is it!?"

Professor Hidgens!

"Don't lie to me whoever you are! I'm Professor Hidgens!"

[Paul facepalms with his free hand.]

right, the fucking script...

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at Paul, confused, before speaking.]

Uhm, my name is Madeline. I'm with Paul. We just needed a place to hide for a bit and he said we could come here.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

We're friends of one of your students, Emma Perkins.

[He lied just a bit. He knew what would get them in.]

"Emma!? Is she alright? Hold on, I'll let you in!"

[The speaker crackles off and a beat or so passes before the door clicks and Paul quickly opens it, making sure Madeline gets inside before he does.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She steps in quickly, still holding his hand. She looks at Paul as he enters, and then looks at the inside of the place. It's interesting...]

Huh... This place seems nice... enough...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

It... sure is something. Stay close, I don't know what state he's in or what he'll do once he sees... me.

[He lightly squeezes Madeline's hand before starting down the hallway into the house greater, leading her behind him.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She holds his hand, squeezing a bit, and follows him.]

Alright, lead the way.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He leads her to the professor's living room, a sofa right by a fireplace with a portrait of presumably the professor hanging above it. A bit further in was a side room full of clutter, books, and chemistry odds and ends. On a corkboard on the wall was locations around hatchetfield all strung together by red thread to create an upside down star. The grey-haired man in a black turtleneck, the professor, was busy looking over something on the desk in front of the corkboard when they stepped in. Silently, Paul leaned down a bit and pointed to a hallway nearby.]

when i say so, i need you to run to the kitchen. it's right through there to the left. he keeps a roll of duct tape in his junk drawer. I need you to grab that and bring it back to me, okay?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks around the room, curious. I look over at Paul for a second, and nod, giving him a thumbs up. I then look back over at the corkboard, wondering what it's about.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Pictures on the corkboard show different locations around town. The theater, Hatchetfield High School, the CCRP building, the mall and the old Waylon place. The threads imply they're all connected in some way.]

[Paul takes a deep, unneeded breath to steady himself and straightens back up.]

Professor...

[The Professor turns quickly, briefly noticing the two as he waves them closer.]

Yes, come in. Come in. You weren't followed were you? You really shouldn't trust what you've seen out there, those things are not-

[He cuts himself off as he gets a proper look at them both. Paul specifically. The blue glow in Paul's eyes and the crack that webs out from the bridge of his nose across his cheeks.]

...human.

[He quickly reaches for his pocket and Paul pushes Madeline out of the way towards the kitchen.]

NOW! GO!!

[gothicnerdxd]

[I nod, and run to the kitchen. I immediately check for the duct tape, and I do find it. I run back into the living room, to Paul.]

I GOT IT!

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[A gunshot rings out from the living room while Madeline's in the kitchen, Madeline returning to Paul pinning Hidgens to the floor with a knee on his back and one hand holding Hidgens' arms behind his back, Paul's other hand gripping his shoulder as something blue leaked from between his fingers. Paul looked up, giving Madeline a quick nod.]

Perfect, bring it over.

[Hidgens writhes under Paul's surprising strength, gritting his teeth.]

It was a trick! You're one of them, you're both infected! You're here to make me one of you!

Shut up, we're saving your ass by even being here!

[gothicnerdxd]

[She runs to Paul, giving him the tape. She then looks at the scene in front of her a bit longer.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Thank you.

[Paul takes the tape with the hand he was using to hold down Hidgens, his knee apparently doing the job just fine, and rips it open with his teeth as his other hand stayed gripping his shoulder. He dropped the tape and left it hanging from his teeth as he picked Hidgens up, sticking the tape to his back and starting to tie his arms against his sides.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She watches, looking at Paul, and then at Hidgens.]

Do you want me to help?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Oh, sure.

[He passes the tape back over.]

Here, keep wrapping him up, I'll hold him still.

[Hidgens fought and struggled as much as a man his age was able to. He looked up to catch Madeline's gaze.]

Dear girl, if you have a shred of humanity left in you, I beg you to free me! This man is not who you think he is, he's been replaced! Rebuilt!

Shut. Up.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She takes the tape, and starts to wrap him up. Although, she also takes an occasional look at Paul.]

Paul, what is he talking about?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul moved Hidgens' lower arms to cross behind his back, his gaze not meeting Madeline's.]

I'm not going to tell you he's wrong or talking nonsense, if that's what you're looking for.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She continues wrapping up Hidgens, thinking for a moment.]

Uhm, ok then... Tell me when to stop with Hidgens.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He nods, holding Hidgens' arms in place with his free hand. The other moved from his shoulder to tucked tight against his suit jacket. Where he was holding his shoulder had a hole in the jacket and shirt underneath, but the skin underneath looked unaffected... yet as pale and corpse-looking as the rest of him. The cloth around the hole is stained with blue.]

Here, come wrap his arms together. We'll get his legs after.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She nods a bit, and starts wrapping his arms together.]

Alright... How did you heal that fast?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul takes a deep breath. Hearing it, one can realize he hadn't been breathing most of this time. As Hidgens' arms were wrapped, he moved around to hold Hidgens' legs together in a sitting position.]

We have to hide from the things out there because we can't fight them. Because they heal fast. Because they can keep moving with injuries that'll kill a normal person. Bullet wounds, broken skulls...

[His eyes sank down to Hidgens midsection.]

torn out guts...

[Hidgens' eyes widened and he struggled harder.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[I nod, trying to process it, but I start taping up Hidgens' legs.]

Okay then...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[As the Professor's legs were being bound, Paul moved away and grabbed a chair, moving Hidgens onto it so he was at least somewhat comfortable. Once he secured Hidgens to it, Paul went to the kitchen himself to presumably clean whatever blue substance was on his hand and clothes. Hidgens' eyes narrow down at Madeline.]

What do you intend to do with me? Do you plan to kill me in my own home? Turn me into one of those things?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at Hidgens, confused, as she sits down across from him.]

I honestly dont know what were intending. I'm only here because I wanted away from whats out there. Now, do you know what that blue shit was?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Hidgens' eyes flicked from the hall to the kitchen, then back to Madeline.]

I can't say for certain, but I know it's not if this world. I'd never had a physical specimen to study before, only visions, but by the speed of its spread and the turning of the average citizen to a musical monster, I believe it to be a highly contagious pathogen. One carriers are inclined to spread at all costs. By the looks of your companion there, girl, you may not have long before you're one of them yourself! You must get away from him, it is the only hope to remain yourself!

[gothicnerdxd]

[She stares at him for a moment.]

But he hasn't done anything music related... And all of the others who've been like this have been a lot more hostile...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He struggles against his binds.]

It's an act, girl! It goes beyond music into performance, full acting. He is decieving you with a mask of normalcy! And have you not heard him humming? The sound he makes when he does not speak to appease the parasite that has taken over his flesh? He is playing the long game with you, my dear! Lull you into a false sense of security before turning you into something like him when you're at your most vulnerable!

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks down, fists clenching a bit, refusing to believe it. I mean, Paul wouldn't hurt her... Right?]

No... No, he wouldn't act like this. Everybody else was outright trying to kill or take over, but he's... He's just trying to help me get away from them.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

In an apocalypse scenario, life or death... are you really willing to take that chance? One can trust only themself at a time like this, my dear. Anyone else can throw you to the wolves in an instant! Or in this case, throw you to the choir.

[Hidgens goes quiet as Paul's footsteps return, Paul stepping back into the room. He carried a box of latex gloves, apparently having found them in the kitchen.]

these probably would have been useful earlier. Oh well, I'll keep them around in case one of us gets more blue shit on our hands.

[He looks up, his expression softening seeing Madeline's conflicted look.]

I-Is everything okay?

[gothicnerdxd]

[she looks at him, and nods. Her expression brightened up just a bit when he came in.]

Yeah... Yeah, everything is fine.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Hidgens gaze shifts warily to Madeline, but Paul gives a smile. One that doesn't look entirely sure of her words, but tries to be reassuring.]

Okay.... uh- we should get him to the basement. He has some weird... lab or study rooms down there. Places to keep experiments. Hell if I know why he has them.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at Paul, and stands up. She looks towards Hidgens, and back to Paul.]

Alright, lead the way.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul gives a nod and steps over behind the chair he attached Hidgens to, picking it up with little effort and starting to walk down the hallways.]

[Hidgens thrashed and struggled, clenching his teeth.]

Unhand me! You foul being! You plan to isolate and torture me before turning me!? You have no morality!

We plan to put you in your own safehouse and keep you from getting turned at all. Trust me, you'd be more of a problem if you were turned.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She watches for a moment, before following Paul.]

So, we're putting him in the safehouse. Are we also staying in there?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Kind of... this whole place is technically the safehouse, but there are some more secure... I don't want to say cells, but... lockable, strong rooms... in the basement. It's where we'll put him so he doesn't do anything stupid, and where we'll put me if things go from bad to worse.

[He leads her down a large staircase, the atmosphere turning from homey to more of a laboratory. Cold and sterile.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She keeps following him, looking around. She's quiet, almost alarmingly so.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul just stays focused, marching down a hallway that seems familiar to him and eventually turning to a room, opening a door into an observation room that looks into what can only be described as an interrogation room. Pushing a button on a console, a door slides open to the room beyond and Paul marches Hidgens' chair inside, setting him down facing the glass that looks into the room.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[Maddie watches from outside the room, albeit curious to keep exploring. While Paul is setting Hidgens down, she ends up wandering off, down the hall.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Even with the pure size of this place seen from the outside, it still felt bigger within. The hallways sprawl and rooms almost seem to repeat. A lounge, a bar, a kitchen, another observation room, a lab room with vials, notes, and beakers scattered here and there like a mad scientist had torn through it. The only pristine thing was a stack of perfectly neat papers sitting on a desk.]

[Paul situated Hidgens into a decently comfortable position before pulling out the tape again.]

Alright, let's make sure you don't fuck things up by talking to your Alexa this time.

Oh, right! ALE-

[Paul slaps a strip of tape over Hidgens' mouth, gritting his teeth.]

Nope! No more of that.

[gothicnerdxd]

[Maddie continues to explore, but eventually, Hidgens notices that she's no longer near the room. She is very likely about to get lost.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Hidgens' eyes linger beyond Paul, to the hallway where Madeline was no longer visible from. He makes no indication of this to Paul, just hoping being lost in his labyrinthine lab is a better fate than whatever this monster had planned for her.]

[Paul steps out of the room, pressing the button to close and secure the door to the interrogation room again before letting out an unneeded breath.]

Okay, now we should be fine for a while. We'll be okay.

[He looks back where Madeline was previously, freezing when he can't see her.]

Madeline?

[He moves out to the hallway, looking up and down it.]

Madeline?? MADELINE!?

[gothicnerdxd]

[Maddie continues exploring, but is, thankfully, starting to head back in the direction of the lab. She hears Paul yelling, and starts to follow it.]

Paul?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul untenses, starting in the direction he heard Maddie's voice.]

Madeline! Where did you go? You dont know this place... I barely know beyond this far, you're gonna get lost.

[gothicnerdxd]

[Maddie keeps following the voice, getting closer.]

I was lost for a bit... Did you know they have another lab here?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul keeps moving forward, but slows down considerably.]

I don't doubt it, I wondered where he went off to to study that blue shit the first time we came here. I never really ask questions because, well, I was panicked and needed a drink.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She also keeps moving forward, not slowing down.]

Well, I guess that's not surprising when you say that. I am still wondering what the blue shit is, but we can work on it.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

It's... the best way I can describe it is alien. Something that's definitely not from this world and shouldn't be here at all, but its here anyway. The offshoots of some... thing. And it's poison, consuming it in any way will make you sick. I think touching it is fine, but... you'd definitely have to wash your hands after handling it. It's gross...

and im made of it.

[He mumbles the last part to himself, thankful Madeline is further away as he keeps moving towards her voice.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She nods a bit, not really hearing the last part. She keeps following his voice, eventually finding him.]

Oh, there you are!

[She runs over to him, smiling a bit.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He gets a relieved look as Madeline runs up to him.]

Hey! Okay, what I was saying before I realized you were gone, we should be fine for a while now. And as long as the fence outside holds, I won't need to be shut away for a while. Uh... are you hungry?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks down for a second, because she is actually pretty hungry.]

... Yeah, lets go eat.

[She starts to walk back, towards the kitchen.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He nods, following her.]

God, I hope he has something actually edible. Not just... canned things for the apocalypse he was planning for. Hopefully something fresh, at least.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She leads him to the kitchen, and there is some fresh food. Not a lot, but enough.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul looks relieved, looking around the kitchen and checking through the fridge and cabinets.]

I gotta admit I'm... not the best chef so if you want something specific, I can try but it definitely won't be the best. I can make pasta, eggs, and some easy things, but... that's about it. Ooh, a coffee pot!

[gothicnerdxd]

[She thinks for a moment, before smiling a bit.]

Lets do eggs, they're really good.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Gotcha. Let's see if he has them...

[He opens the fridge, eyes flicking over its contents again.]

Yes! Damn, he is really prepared. How do you like yours?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She smiles a bit, looking at him.]

Honestly, I'll take them any way, but I usually prefer scrambled.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Oh good, the arguably easiest way to make them. I can definitely do that.

[He takes the egg carton and butter and moves over to the stove, looking around for a moment before finding a pan and putting it on the stove.]

I'll probably make some for Hidge, too. He's gonna be in there for a good while so he'll need some food.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She watches, occasionally helping him with food. She also decides to make some coffee for him, and maybe herself, just to try it.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[It's not long before Paul plates Madeline's food and sets some aside for Hidgens later, notably making none for himself. He sets it over on a kitchen table.]

There you go. Oh- you having coffee with it?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at the coffee pot, which is currently brewing.]

I mean, I've never really had coffee before. Why not try it?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Fair enough, since it's here and available. I usually take mine black with nothing in it, but that's usually bitter as hell for everyone else, so others add milk and sugar or creamer to it. My nephew doesn't have coffee very often, but whenever he does he likes his tooth-rottingly sweet.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She smiles, and pours two cups of coffee. She gives one to Paul, and then takes a sip. It's actually not that bad.]

huh... This is actually pretty good.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Oh, thank you!

[When she voices her opinion of the drink, Paul pauses for a second, raising a brow and looking Madeline up and down before letting out a surprised hum.]

Really? It's pretty bitter, you like bitter tastes?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She shrugs a bit, smiling, and taking another sip.]

Usually not, but yeah, it's actually pretty good.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[His eyes narrow at that. Could... she suddenly like it for the same reason it's all Paul can stand to drink anymore? The persistent bitter taste in his mouth? He shakes his head, putting the thought out of his mind and returning to just having a quiet breakfast.]

Yeah. I like it a lot.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She continues to drink the coffee while eating, seemingly enjoying it.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul takes a seat, drinking his own cup of coffee before his content smile starts to fade.]

did... Hidgens say anything to you? About... what he thinks is going on, I mean.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She pauses for a moment, before setting her cup down.]

He said something about visions, but... He also said to get away from you. I wouldn't, you've been keeping me safe, but I just... It's weird.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Mmh... yeah, he's... weird, but I see where he's coming from. I can't really say if his "visions" are correct or not, but... he mostly had it right, at least.

[gothicnerdxd]

huh... Well, i guess we'll know if anything else ends up correct...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He sighs, looking down.]

Well... most of what he says will happen definitely will. Or will try to, anyway. I just dont know if there's more he saw that he kept to himself or has yet to tell anyone. I could probably tell you most of what's going on out there, anyway. Third time around might make me an expert, by now.

[gothicnerdxd]

[she looks down, taking a sip of her coffee.]

Alright then...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[His jaw tightens at her reaction, looking down into his coffee.]

Uh- s-sorry. And sorry you got wrapped up in all this. I really didnt expect it to happen again. Dont even know if this time is my fault.

[gothicnerdxd]

[she looks over, placing her cup down.]

I mean, I'm pretty sure it isn't your fault.

[gothicnerdxd]

what the fuck- WHY ARE THE PEOPLE AT BEANIES SINGING?! I JUST WANTED A HOT CHOCOLATE :(

@suddenly-likes-musicals I just wanted a hot chocolate 😭

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Get out of there! Don't drink anything they give you, they've infected it! Run as far as you can and hide if you need to! Get out of downtown!!

[gothicnerdxd]

A-alright... I'm right outside downtown. The hot cocoa was blue for some reason... W-where do I go next?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Anywhere away from people. If you can leave Hatchetfield, do it. It's going to keep spreading, you need to stay away from it.

[gothicnerdxd]

If you could, could you come with me..? Please..? I dont want to be alone...

[She looks to him, obviously nervous.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

I....

yeah, I'll come with you. Might... might make it more dangerous, I don't know how much of a beacon I'll be to them, but... at least I can help keep you safe while I'm awake.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She smiles, grabbing onto his hand.]

Well then, lead the way...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul lets out an unneeded breath, just nice to know he still can breathe if he chooses.]

god, i hope i can leave hatchetfield.

[He squeezes Madeline's hand and starts down the street, making his way towards the bridge out of Hatchetfield.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[Madeline follows, quietly, looking around at the town as they're leaving, breathing in as she tries to calm down.]

I hope we can too...

[She continues walking, fidgeting with something in her jacket pocket.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

I... I think you'll be fine. As long as the bridge is down, at least. Me, on the other hand... I don't know if there are other factors keeping me here. Are you okay? Did they hurt you?

[gothicnerdxd]

They didn't, I just... I just want to survive this nightmare... And I don't want to survive alone...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He swallows dryly, eyes focused on the sidewalk.]

I... didn't survive the first couple times I went through this. Hopefully third time's the charm, but... If I tell you to, I need you to get as far away from me as you can, okay?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at him, tilting her head, unaware that her hands have begun to shake slightly.]

Oh... Okay then... I guess I could...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He exhales a relieved breath.]

Thank you. I know, I really dont want it to happen either... but we have to be ready for anything.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She continues walking, but squeezes his hand, not wanting to let go.]

Well then, lets continue...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Mhm.

[Paul walks with purpose in the direction of the bridge, careful to scan around corners as they go in case of an ambush.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She keeps following him, keeping an eye out for anyone who may be infected. With her spare hand, shes drumming against her leg, a sort of nervous stim.]

Is it safe..?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul's free hand subconsciously drums on his leg as well, following the taps and rhythm that Madeline creates with hers without realizing.]

So far. But I'm a walking tracker to them. They could be anywhere.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks to him, nodding slightly at that, continuing the subconscious drumming against her leg.]

True... I guess we'll need to be as safe as possible...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

That we d-

[Paul stops, eyes flicking around as the music builds in his head. A sign that more of the Hive is nearby. He lightly squeezes Madeline's hand.]

They're close. We've gotta hurry up.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at him, and nods, speeding up and letting him lead us away from the Hive. She keeps holding onto his hand, no longer drumming against her leg.]

A-alright... Lets go then.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He goes as fast as he can, though still makes sure Madeline can keep pace with him. The music only grows and grows, gets louder and louder as the Hive zeroes in on his location. Paul grits his teeth and just tries to keep focused on the path ahead.]

come on, come on...

[gothicnerdxd]

[She keeps following him, running as close to his pace as I can, beginning to hear the music as well.]

We can do this...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Alright, it's just ahead, we just have to- Fuck!

[He skids to a halt before the bridge, watching as it begins to raise and Hive drones start to block the way.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She freezes, squeezing his hand tighter than ever, as the bridge raises.]

N-no... Shit...

[She begins to back away from the Hive that were blocking the way, and immediately begins looking for another way out.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul twitches as he fights the call of the music, looking around for another way as well.]

Fuck... fuck, now what? We- we can't do the high school, that's going to be overrun... nothing downtown... something FAR from the theater. M-Maybe Hidgens'? Ugh, he's going to be a problem again, too...

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at him, nervous but confused.]

Who? A-and what do you mean... AGAIN?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

I told you, I've been through this all before. But the first couple times, I didn't survive it! Hidgens is... h-he's an insane shut-in weirdo in the woods but his house is basically a doomsday bunker. Thats what kept me in one place and my friends fairly safe for most of the day. The only problem is dealing with Hidgens himself, which I really don't want to do!

[gothicnerdxd]

a-alright, its a fair point. He's probably gonna be our best bet, but I hope we dont have to really deal with him...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

We could... tie him up, I guess? Lock him in a room... he might still have access to voice controls though. Fuck, this is exactly why my buddy took care of him last time.

[He shakes his head.]

Fuck it, it's our best chance and we'll work it out as we go. Come on!

[He starts in the other direction, tugging on Madeline to follow as he set a path for the Witchwoods.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She follows, looking around at the witchwoods as they run.]

Alright, I'll keep an eye out for the hive.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Thank you. I remember where his house is and it should be a straight shot, only problem is if we get cut off by the Hive on the way there.

[He runs down the street, following it straight across uptown and into a path into the Witchwoods.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She tries to keep up, while still keeping an eye out for the Hive.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He books it as fast as he can, still careful to keep Madeline's hand and trying not to drag her. The music iss loud. It pounds with his footsteps. Screams to him the melody of a happy morning. A Lah Dee Dah Dah Day! His vision clouds and his humming gets louder, but he pushes on. No one was going to get hurt on his watch. Not this time.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She keeps running, as fast as she can, and she hears the music. She squeezes his hand a bit, still looking around.]

Are we close?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

What-?

[He looks back, his perception snapping back to reality as he processes the question.]

Oh, yeah. It should be just over here.

[They reach a large fence, Paul touching it quickly to check if it was electrified before letting out a relieved breath.]

Okay, step into my hands. I'll hoist you over.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at him, and then nods a bit. She steps onto his hands, and looks at him.]

Alright... On the count of 3?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He nods.]

Okay, One...

[gothicnerdxd]

[She prepares, keeping her balance.]

Two...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Three!

[He hefts Madeline up, probably with more force than he was expecting as she was nearly thrown on top of the fence.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[I get a bit surprised, but I grab onto the fence before I can land on top of it. I let go once I'm on the other side, to unlock it and let him in]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul moves inside the fence quick, locking it back behind him as he saw a few infected pokong through the trees. He took Madeline's hand again and rushed to the door of the- frankly more mansion than house, ringing the doorbell as he clenched his jaw.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She holds onto his hand, looking at it. She fidgets with her other hand, waiting for Hidgens to answer.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[A small comms speaker squeaks to life with a static noise.]

"Who is it!?"

Professor Hidgens!

"Don't lie to me whoever you are! I'm Professor Hidgens!"

[Paul facepalms with his free hand.]

right, the fucking script...

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at Paul, confused, before speaking.]

Uhm, my name is Madeline. I'm with Paul. We just needed a place to hide for a bit and he said we could come here.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

We're friends of one of your students, Emma Perkins.

[He lied just a bit. He knew what would get them in.]

"Emma!? Is she alright? Hold on, I'll let you in!"

[The speaker crackles off and a beat or so passes before the door clicks and Paul quickly opens it, making sure Madeline gets inside before he does.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She steps in quickly, still holding his hand. She looks at Paul as he enters, and then looks at the inside of the place. It's interesting...]

Huh... This place seems nice... enough...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

It... sure is something. Stay close, I don't know what state he's in or what he'll do once he sees... me.

[He lightly squeezes Madeline's hand before starting down the hallway into the house greater, leading her behind him.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She holds his hand, squeezing a bit, and follows him.]

Alright, lead the way.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He leads her to the professor's living room, a sofa right by a fireplace with a portrait of presumably the professor hanging above it. A bit further in was a side room full of clutter, books, and chemistry odds and ends. On a corkboard on the wall was locations around hatchetfield all strung together by red thread to create an upside down star. The grey-haired man in a black turtleneck, the professor, was busy looking over something on the desk in front of the corkboard when they stepped in. Silently, Paul leaned down a bit and pointed to a hallway nearby.]

when i say so, i need you to run to the kitchen. it's right through there to the left. he keeps a roll of duct tape in his junk drawer. I need you to grab that and bring it back to me, okay?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks around the room, curious. I look over at Paul for a second, and nod, giving him a thumbs up. I then look back over at the corkboard, wondering what it's about.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Pictures on the corkboard show different locations around town. The theater, Hatchetfield High School, the CCRP building, the mall and the old Waylon place. The threads imply they're all connected in some way.]

[Paul takes a deep, unneeded breath to steady himself and straightens back up.]

Professor...

[The Professor turns quickly, briefly noticing the two as he waves them closer.]

Yes, come in. Come in. You weren't followed were you? You really shouldn't trust what you've seen out there, those things are not-

[He cuts himself off as he gets a proper look at them both. Paul specifically. The blue glow in Paul's eyes and the crack that webs out from the bridge of his nose across his cheeks.]

...human.

[He quickly reaches for his pocket and Paul pushes Madeline out of the way towards the kitchen.]

NOW! GO!!

[gothicnerdxd]

[I nod, and run to the kitchen. I immediately check for the duct tape, and I do find it. I run back into the living room, to Paul.]

I GOT IT!

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[A gunshot rings out from the living room while Madeline's in the kitchen, Madeline returning to Paul pinning Hidgens to the floor with a knee on his back and one hand holding Hidgens' arms behind his back, Paul's other hand gripping his shoulder as something blue leaked from between his fingers. Paul looked up, giving Madeline a quick nod.]

Perfect, bring it over.

[Hidgens writhes under Paul's surprising strength, gritting his teeth.]

It was a trick! You're one of them, you're both infected! You're here to make me one of you!

Shut up, we're saving your ass by even being here!

[gothicnerdxd]

[She runs to Paul, giving him the tape. She then looks at the scene in front of her a bit longer.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Thank you.

[Paul takes the tape with the hand he was using to hold down Hidgens, his knee apparently doing the job just fine, and rips it open with his teeth as his other hand stayed gripping his shoulder. He dropped the tape and left it hanging from his teeth as he picked Hidgens up, sticking the tape to his back and starting to tie his arms against his sides.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She watches, looking at Paul, and then at Hidgens.]

Do you want me to help?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Oh, sure.

[He passes the tape back over.]

Here, keep wrapping him up, I'll hold him still.

[Hidgens fought and struggled as much as a man his age was able to. He looked up to catch Madeline's gaze.]

Dear girl, if you have a shred of humanity left in you, I beg you to free me! This man is not who you think he is, he's been replaced! Rebuilt!

Shut. Up.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She takes the tape, and starts to wrap him up. Although, she also takes an occasional look at Paul.]

Paul, what is he talking about?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul moved Hidgens' lower arms to cross behind his back, his gaze not meeting Madeline's.]

I'm not going to tell you he's wrong or talking nonsense, if that's what you're looking for.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She continues wrapping up Hidgens, thinking for a moment.]

Uhm, ok then... Tell me when to stop with Hidgens.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He nods, holding Hidgens' arms in place with his free hand. The other moved from his shoulder to tucked tight against his suit jacket. Where he was holding his shoulder had a hole in the jacket and shirt underneath, but the skin underneath looked unaffected... yet as pale and corpse-looking as the rest of him. The cloth around the hole is stained with blue.]

Here, come wrap his arms together. We'll get his legs after.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She nods a bit, and starts wrapping his arms together.]

Alright... How did you heal that fast?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul takes a deep breath. Hearing it, one can realize he hadn't been breathing most of this time. As Hidgens' arms were wrapped, he moved around to hold Hidgens' legs together in a sitting position.]

We have to hide from the things out there because we can't fight them. Because they heal fast. Because they can keep moving with injuries that'll kill a normal person. Bullet wounds, broken skulls...

[His eyes sank down to Hidgens midsection.]

torn out guts...

[Hidgens' eyes widened and he struggled harder.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[I nod, trying to process it, but I start taping up Hidgens' legs.]

Okay then...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[As the Professor's legs were being bound, Paul moved away and grabbed a chair, moving Hidgens onto it so he was at least somewhat comfortable. Once he secured Hidgens to it, Paul went to the kitchen himself to presumably clean whatever blue substance was on his hand and clothes. Hidgens' eyes narrow down at Madeline.]

What do you intend to do with me? Do you plan to kill me in my own home? Turn me into one of those things?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at Hidgens, confused, as she sits down across from him.]

I honestly dont know what were intending. I'm only here because I wanted away from whats out there. Now, do you know what that blue shit was?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Hidgens' eyes flicked from the hall to the kitchen, then back to Madeline.]

I can't say for certain, but I know it's not if this world. I'd never had a physical specimen to study before, only visions, but by the speed of its spread and the turning of the average citizen to a musical monster, I believe it to be a highly contagious pathogen. One carriers are inclined to spread at all costs. By the looks of your companion there, girl, you may not have long before you're one of them yourself! You must get away from him, it is the only hope to remain yourself!

[gothicnerdxd]

[She stares at him for a moment.]

But he hasn't done anything music related... And all of the others who've been like this have been a lot more hostile...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He struggles against his binds.]

It's an act, girl! It goes beyond music into performance, full acting. He is decieving you with a mask of normalcy! And have you not heard him humming? The sound he makes when he does not speak to appease the parasite that has taken over his flesh? He is playing the long game with you, my dear! Lull you into a false sense of security before turning you into something like him when you're at your most vulnerable!

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks down, fists clenching a bit, refusing to believe it. I mean, Paul wouldn't hurt her... Right?]

No... No, he wouldn't act like this. Everybody else was outright trying to kill or take over, but he's... He's just trying to help me get away from them.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

In an apocalypse scenario, life or death... are you really willing to take that chance? One can trust only themself at a time like this, my dear. Anyone else can throw you to the wolves in an instant! Or in this case, throw you to the choir.

[Hidgens goes quiet as Paul's footsteps return, Paul stepping back into the room. He carried a box of latex gloves, apparently having found them in the kitchen.]

these probably would have been useful earlier. Oh well, I'll keep them around in case one of us gets more blue shit on our hands.

[He looks up, his expression softening seeing Madeline's conflicted look.]

I-Is everything okay?

[gothicnerdxd]

[she looks at him, and nods. Her expression brightened up just a bit when he came in.]

Yeah... Yeah, everything is fine.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Hidgens gaze shifts warily to Madeline, but Paul gives a smile. One that doesn't look entirely sure of her words, but tries to be reassuring.]

Okay.... uh- we should get him to the basement. He has some weird... lab or study rooms down there. Places to keep experiments. Hell if I know why he has them.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at Paul, and stands up. She looks towards Hidgens, and back to Paul.]

Alright, lead the way.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul gives a nod and steps over behind the chair he attached Hidgens to, picking it up with little effort and starting to walk down the hallways.]

[Hidgens thrashed and struggled, clenching his teeth.]

Unhand me! You foul being! You plan to isolate and torture me before turning me!? You have no morality!

We plan to put you in your own safehouse and keep you from getting turned at all. Trust me, you'd be more of a problem if you were turned.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She watches for a moment, before following Paul.]

So, we're putting him in the safehouse. Are we also staying in there?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Kind of... this whole place is technically the safehouse, but there are some more secure... I don't want to say cells, but... lockable, strong rooms... in the basement. It's where we'll put him so he doesn't do anything stupid, and where we'll put me if things go from bad to worse.

[He leads her down a large staircase, the atmosphere turning from homey to more of a laboratory. Cold and sterile.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She keeps following him, looking around. She's quiet, almost alarmingly so.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul just stays focused, marching down a hallway that seems familiar to him and eventually turning to a room, opening a door into an observation room that looks into what can only be described as an interrogation room. Pushing a button on a console, a door slides open to the room beyond and Paul marches Hidgens' chair inside, setting him down facing the glass that looks into the room.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[Maddie watches from outside the room, albeit curious to keep exploring. While Paul is setting Hidgens down, she ends up wandering off, down the hall.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Even with the pure size of this place seen from the outside, it still felt bigger within. The hallways sprawl and rooms almost seem to repeat. A lounge, a bar, a kitchen, another observation room, a lab room with vials, notes, and beakers scattered here and there like a mad scientist had torn through it. The only pristine thing was a stack of perfectly neat papers sitting on a desk.]

[Paul situated Hidgens into a decently comfortable position before pulling out the tape again.]

Alright, let's make sure you don't fuck things up by talking to your Alexa this time.

Oh, right! ALE-

[Paul slaps a strip of tape over Hidgens' mouth, gritting his teeth.]

Nope! No more of that.

[gothicnerdxd]

[Maddie continues to explore, but eventually, Hidgens notices that she's no longer near the room. She is very likely about to get lost.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Hidgens' eyes linger beyond Paul, to the hallway where Madeline was no longer visible from. He makes no indication of this to Paul, just hoping being lost in his labyrinthine lab is a better fate than whatever this monster had planned for her.]

[Paul steps out of the room, pressing the button to close and secure the door to the interrogation room again before letting out an unneeded breath.]

Okay, now we should be fine for a while. We'll be okay.

[He looks back where Madeline was previously, freezing when he can't see her.]

Madeline?

[He moves out to the hallway, looking up and down it.]

Madeline?? MADELINE!?

[gothicnerdxd]

[Maddie continues exploring, but is, thankfully, starting to head back in the direction of the lab. She hears Paul yelling, and starts to follow it.]

Paul?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul untenses, starting in the direction he heard Maddie's voice.]

Madeline! Where did you go? You dont know this place... I barely know beyond this far, you're gonna get lost.

[gothicnerdxd]

[Maddie keeps following the voice, getting closer.]

I was lost for a bit... Did you know they have another lab here?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul keeps moving forward, but slows down considerably.]

I don't doubt it, I wondered where he went off to to study that blue shit the first time we came here. I never really ask questions because, well, I was panicked and needed a drink.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She also keeps moving forward, not slowing down.]

Well, I guess that's not surprising when you say that. I am still wondering what the blue shit is, but we can work on it.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

It's... the best way I can describe it is alien. Something that's definitely not from this world and shouldn't be here at all, but its here anyway. The offshoots of some... thing. And it's poison, consuming it in any way will make you sick. I think touching it is fine, but... you'd definitely have to wash your hands after handling it. It's gross...

and im made of it.

[He mumbles the last part to himself, thankful Madeline is further away as he keeps moving towards her voice.]

[gothicnerdxd]

[She nods a bit, not really hearing the last part. She keeps following his voice, eventually finding him.]

Oh, there you are!

[She runs over to him, smiling a bit.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He gets a relieved look as Madeline runs up to him.]

Hey! Okay, what I was saying before I realized you were gone, we should be fine for a while now. And as long as the fence outside holds, I won't need to be shut away for a while. Uh... are you hungry?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks down for a second, because she is actually pretty hungry.]

... Yeah, lets go eat.

[She starts to walk back, towards the kitchen.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He nods, following her.]

God, I hope he has something actually edible. Not just... canned things for the apocalypse he was planning for. Hopefully something fresh, at least.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She leads him to the kitchen, and there is some fresh food. Not a lot, but enough.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul looks relieved, looking around the kitchen and checking through the fridge and cabinets.]

I gotta admit I'm... not the best chef so if you want something specific, I can try but it definitely won't be the best. I can make pasta, eggs, and some easy things, but... that's about it. Ooh, a coffee pot!

[gothicnerdxd]

[She thinks for a moment, before smiling a bit.]

Lets do eggs, they're really good.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Gotcha. Let's see if he has them...

[He opens the fridge, eyes flicking over its contents again.]

Yes! Damn, he is really prepared. How do you like yours?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She smiles a bit, looking at him.]

Honestly, I'll take them any way, but I usually prefer scrambled.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Oh good, the arguably easiest way to make them. I can definitely do that.

[He takes the egg carton and butter and moves over to the stove, looking around for a moment before finding a pan and putting it on the stove.]

I'll probably make some for Hidge, too. He's gonna be in there for a good while so he'll need some food.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She watches, occasionally helping him with food. She also decides to make some coffee for him, and maybe herself, just to try it.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[It's not long before Paul plates Madeline's food and sets some aside for Hidgens later, notably making none for himself. He sets it over on a kitchen table.]

There you go. Oh- you having coffee with it?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at the coffee pot, which is currently brewing.]

I mean, I've never really had coffee before. Why not try it?

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Fair enough, since it's here and available. I usually take mine black with nothing in it, but that's usually bitter as hell for everyone else, so others add milk and sugar or creamer to it. My nephew doesn't have coffee very often, but whenever he does he likes his tooth-rottingly sweet.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She smiles, and pours two cups of coffee. She gives one to Paul, and then takes a sip. It's actually not that bad.]

huh... This is actually pretty good.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Oh, thank you!

[When she voices her opinion of the drink, Paul pauses for a second, raising a brow and looking Madeline up and down before letting out a surprised hum.]

Really? It's pretty bitter, you like bitter tastes?

[gothicnerdxd]

[She shrugs a bit, smiling, and taking another sip.]

Usually not, but yeah, it's actually pretty good.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[His eyes narrow at that. Could... she suddenly like it for the same reason it's all Paul can stand to drink anymore? The persistent bitter taste in his mouth? He shakes his head, putting the thought out of his mind and returning to just having a quiet breakfast.]

Yeah. I like it a lot.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She continues to drink the coffee while eating, seemingly enjoying it.]

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[Paul takes a seat, drinking his own cup of coffee before his content smile starts to fade.]

did... Hidgens say anything to you? About... what he thinks is going on, I mean.

[gothicnerdxd]

[She pauses for a moment, before setting her cup down.]

He said something about visions, but... He also said to get away from you. I wouldn't, you've been keeping me safe, but I just... It's weird.

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

Mmh... yeah, he's... weird, but I see where he's coming from. I can't really say if his "visions" are correct or not, but... he mostly had it right, at least.

[gothicnerdxd]

huh... Well, i guess we'll know if anything else ends up correct...

[suddenly-likes-musicals]

[He sighs, looking down.]

Well... most of what he says will happen definitely will. Or will try to, anyway. I just dont know if there's more he saw that he kept to himself or has yet to tell anyone. I could probably tell you most of what's going on out there, anyway. Third time around might make me an expert, by now.

[gothicnerdxd]

[she looks down, taking a sip of her coffee.]

Alright then...

[gothicnerdxd]

Guess who ran away from homeee

Uh

Does anyone in hatchetfield have a place I could stay?

[the-hive-traveler]

you can always ask duke for help

[gothicnerdxd]

who?

[the-hive-traveler]

he’s a social worker, i can take you to his office if you want

[gothicnerdxd]

alright, thank you... Lead the way.

[the-hive-traveler]

where are you right now?

[gothicnerdxd]

I'm outside Beanies, waiting for it to open.

[the-hive-traveler]

alright, i’m already nearby. see you in a minute or two

*they weren’t nearby, but they arrive in a short amount of time anyway*

hey

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks up, smiling at oliver]

hey.

[She stands up, and lets him lead her to duke.]

[the-hive-traveler]

*they lead her down the streets*

so… why did you run away?

[gothicnerdxd]

[she follows them, fidgeting with their sleeve.]

Eh... I got into a really bad argument with my parents and was just sorta... done.

[the-hive-traveler]

fair enough

[gothicnerdxd]

[She shrugs a bit.]

yeah...

[the-hive-traveler]

what was it about?

*they realize that might be too far*

…you don’t have to answer that

[gothicnerdxd]

[she looks down for a moment.]

alright... Id rather not explain why.

[the-hive-traveler]

*they nod*

that’s fine

[gothicnerdxd]

[She continues walking behind Oliver, a bit nervous to meet Duke.]

[the-hive-traveler]

*they finally get to duke’s office, trav goes to knock on the door*

duke?

( @dukekeane-official )

[dukekeane-official]

[Duke opens the door to his office. He's a kind looking man. He looks over the two of them. He greets the person he doesn't know with a smile]

Hi. I'm duke it's nice to meet you. Why don't you two grab a seat while I grab us some waters? And then you can tell me what is bringing you two by.

@gothicnerdxd

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks up, and smiles. A bit awkwardly, yes, but polite.]

It's nice to meet you too...

@the-hive-traveler

[the-hive-traveler]

thanks duke

*they head over to the chairs he has set up for visitors, offering a small smile to madeline*

( @dukekeane-official )

[dukekeane-official]

[Duke brings over the waters and sits down as well]

So what brings you by?

@gothicnerdxd

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at him, occasionally glancing at her surroundings.]

Oliver recommended that I come here... I ran away from home and he said to come here so... Here I am.

@the-hive-traveler

[the-hive-traveler]

*they shrug*

she said she needed a place to stay

( @dukekeane-official )

[dukekeane-official]

[Duke nods]

Well, we absolutely want to make sure that you have a safe place to stay. That being said I'm worried about the fact that you had to run away from home. To be able to place you in a home for the time being I'll need to have an understanding of why. Trav can stay here if you'd feel more comfortable with them here. If not they can step out.

@gothicnerdxd

[gothicnerdxd]

[She nods a bit, still glancing around the room.]

Alright. Could they stay?

@the-hive-traveler

[the-hive-traveler]

*they hum, somewhat surprised she didn’t ask them to leave*

( @dukekeane-official )

[dukekeane-official]

Of course.

@gothicnerdxd

[gothicnerdxd]

[she smiles a bit, and leans back into the chair.]

So... Do I just explain why I ran away? Or is there anything I should start with first?

@the-hive-traveler

[the-hive-traveler]

*they take a sip of their water, looking around the office*

( @dukekeane-official )

[dukekeane-official]

How about you start by telling me what led to you running away and then we can go from there.

@gothicnerdxd

[gothicnerdxd]

Well, me and my parents had some...

[She pauses for a moment, trying to find the right word]

... difficulties, with what we thought was good for me. They wanted me to be perfect, but I dont want to be perfect. I just wanted to be me. I dont know why they wouldn't let me...

@the-hive-traveler

[the-hive-traveler]

*they start to fidget with their hair*

( @dukekeane-official )

[dukekeane-official]

Can you describe what sort of difficulties they presented as?

@gothicnerdxd

[gothicnerdxd]

[she shifts in her seat, trying to think of what to say to explain.]

They just... Didn't really want me to be who I am. They wanted perfection from their only daughter, but I just... I just want to be myself.

@the-hive-traveler

[the-hive-traveler]

*duke’s can see the teen’s gaze go distant, a sign that normally means the two kids are talking to each other in their head*

( @dukekeane-official )

[dukekeane-official]

Did you ever fear for your Saftey?

@gothicnerdxd

[gothicnerdxd]

[She starts to fidget with her sleeve, glancing

Not really. I mean, my dad got angry a lot, but he doesn't hurt me.

@the-hive-traveler

[the-hive-traveler]

*their eyes focus a bit as they notice the fidgeting, frowning*

( @dukekeane-official )

[dukekeane-official]

Sometimes hurting doesn't mean physical pain. Did he ever yell at you or take away things like food, shelter, or water?

@gothicnerdxd

[gothicnerdxd]

[She pauses for a moment, before continuing the fidgeting. But she keeps her eyes focused on him now.]

Yeah, actually... He yelled at me. A lot. Anytime I wasn't "living up to my potential" or what they thought my potential had to be, he'd yell. He yelled at my mom too. She loves me, I just... I couldn't stand living there anymore.

@the-hive-traveler

[the-hive-traveler]

*they nod, looking up at duke*

can you help?

( @dukekeane-official )

[dukekeane-official]

[Duke nods]

I can. I can place you in temporary housing while we look into what's going on at home.

@gothicnerdxd

[gothicnerdxd]

[She looks at Duke, and smiles.]

Alright, thank you... Do you know who I'll be placed with?

@the-hive-traveler

[the-hive-traveler]

*they sit back in their chair, happy duke can help*

( @dukekeane-official )

[dukekeane-official]

Well that depends on what you'd like. There is a busier house with lots of foster kids but the forster parent is very accommodating and kids always have their own room for personal space unless otherwise requested. That would be with Veronica Lawson. There are also some quieter placements though they are farther out of town.

@gothicnerdxd

[gothicnerdxd]

[She thinks for a moment, before looking up.]

I think I'd prefer a quieter placement.

@the-hive-traveler

[the-hive-traveler]

might be smart, lawson’s can be… a lot sometimes

( @dukekeane-official )

[dukekeane-official]

[Duke nods]

Alright. We'll get you settled into the temporary housing while we take a look at your current home.

@gothicnerdxd

[gothicnerdxd]

[She smiles, before looking over at Oliver.]

Alright then, I guess I'll have a temporary home for a while...

@the-hive-traveler

[the-hive-traveler]

*they smile back*

( @dukekeane-official )

[dukekeane-official]

The person who runs the temporary housing will be here to pick you up soon. I am going to go run some paperwork to make this all go through. Feel free to grab and snacks or drinks while you wait.

@gothicnerdxd

[gothicnerdxd]

[she nods a bit, and then looks over towards Oliver]

Hey, do you know where the kitchen is?

@the-hive-traveler

[the-hive-traveler]

hmm?

oh, yeah i know where the snack are

*they head over to grab a few snacks for both of them, and to refill their water*

( @dukekeane-official )

[dukekeane-official]

[duke leaves them be while he goes to finish paperwork. ]

@gothicnerdxd

[gothicnerdxd]

[Maddie looks over to Trav, smiling a bit, before following them.]

Uh, thank you. For helping me get here.