Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Oh...vacation

A time for games, recreation, and rest.

Unless you're me

—AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH — that's right. Me, a speeding car, and a damn demon in the shape of a fried food possessing my body! Screaming at the top of my lungs and driving at top speed through the forest as if it were the end of the world. And I'd rather it were right now, so I wouldn't have to be stuck in this situation!

Taking advantage of the fact that the path was clear, I tried with all my might to hit - or even bite if necessary - the damn triangle so that it would give me back my body. But nothing worked. With each hit or pull I made, it passed through. Although of course, it bothered him that I did it.

—GIVE ME BACK MY BODY!, CRAZY AND HATEFUL DORITO! — I kept hitting and yelling at him. knowing it was in vain.

—Hey hey, quit it off, Pinetree— he tried to calm me half-heartedly.

—quit it off— I stopped. Ok, that’s it! This was the last straw of my patience! —GIVE ME BACK MY BODY! — and like a cat attacking to fight another cat. I took him out of the sight of the steering wheel and began to hit it back with more desperation.

—ALRIGHT, ENOUGH! — Just by hearing that deep and demonic voice, I stopped. I carefully returned to my seat, afraid that he would hurt me. The demon possessing my body settled back down and let out an exhausted sigh —I'm trying to keep us alive! Or at least not get caught! A simple thank you would be better! 

Thank him?!. HA! WHAT NONSENSE!

Suddenly I saw something that made me even more anxious than I already was. –-WACH OUT! — I shouted to get his attention. It was a big fallen tree that would be impossible to go around. and it was in the middle of the road.

—DO SOMETHING! — I shouted again

—IT'S WHAT I’M DOING, BUT THE DAMN BRAKES DON'T WORK! WHY DID HUMANS CREATE THESE THINGS AGSHH! — the demon, no matter how much he touched the brakes with his feet, as if he wanted to kill a cockroach, they didn't work. I should have assumed it, those carts are useless, even though Soos repairs them almost every day.

This was the end, we were going to die. or at least my body was going to. Who would have said that I would end up like this?: Alone, without my body, and having inside me a hateful nightmare demon. So many things I wanted to do…

damn! I couldn't even have a girlfriend!

Okay, I think I'm scaring you a little

"Dipper, what happened?", "What the hell is going on?"

Well, it's better to start from the beginning to not alarm you...

Chapter Text

Okay, let's start from the beginning:

My name is M-, sorry, Dipper Pines. Our mother sent me and my sister Mabel to our great-uncle Stan for a summer vacation in a small town in Oregon County called Gravity Falls. Why it's called that, I don't know, I spent like 4 hours chewing on my pens trying to find out.

My mother thought we both needed a break and a "change of scenery" as she used to tell her patients.

But something she didn't know is that in Gravity Falls it's hard to have a "quiet" time.

While I was hanging up posters in the woods to attract new disoriented tourists to "Grunkle Stan's Tourist Trap for Dummies" better known as the Mystery Shack, I found a journal containing all the mysteries and creatures in town, declaring that this place was out of the ordinary. It's fascinating and incredible everything that goes on inside! I never thought that a book that tells of any kind of anomalies in this town would automatically be added to my summer reading list!

I had so many questions. How did these creatures get here? Where can I find them? And the most important of all: Who is the author of this diary?

I set out to investigate every anomaly indicated in the diary and try to find some clue that would tell me who had written it. But I couldn't do it alone. That's why my twin Mabel was my partner in solving these mysteries. Although she was distracted (too distracted) by her obsession with boys and getting a boyfriend. She was so obsessed that she could throw herself off a fifth building if the boy she liked told her.

From time to time I also received help from my friends that I met there, even if they didn't know exactly what they were doing. And every time I wanted to prove to the town or my Grunkle that these creatures existed, he would just make fun of me saying that I was crazy and should sleep more, instead of playing detective (if I see those policemen again. I swear I'm going to... ....)

Throughout the summer I started to get more clues. like the appearance of diary number 2, that of a secret bunker that we theorize is the author's And one of the biggest clues we had gotten, was an old laptop that should have important information about the author. I was close to discovering the truth. I would finally stop eating my shirt out of nerves!

But there was one little problem that was pretty tedious and common that we all had to go through at some point: the laptop had a password. And millions of words and possibilities have to have exactly 8 digits for me to get in.

The good news is that I wasn't going to solve this alone. I had my friend and right-hand girl, Mabel, who would be helping me with the password and occasionally making sure I didn't eat my shirt. It was like we used to do when we had an exam in California. But the bad news is that Cupid shot Mabel hard and she ended up falling in love with a guy again. This time it was a blonde guy from a magazine, who had a weird fetish for... puppets (don't ask. He's kind of pretty, but he's weird. Did I mention that he kisses his puppets?!).

With all the coincidences in the world, I wonder if it was possible to do a puppet show for this Friday. FRIDAY! 3 DAYS TO GO! It was going to be impossible to do a puppet show in three days! She begged me a lot and promised me that she would help me with the laptop while I put this whole show together. I was unsure, but I agreed anyway. After all, I am a "good brother" right? Plus she will help me with the laptop, so I won't be alone this time. Right? Right?!.

She didn't do it.

she was so busy that she completely forgot about the laptop, so I had to do it myself, again. I was tired, my body couldn't take it anymore. I felt like I was going to faint if I kept trying passwords. I tried everything, I wasted long nights. Sleep? HA! It's for weaklings. My only wish now was for that beeping noise —which came from the laptop when I entered incorrect passwords— to shut up once and for all.

The only one who had given me his hand and help was... Bill Cipher, the demon who worked for Gideon and got into my Grunkle's mind.

He had appeared one night on the terrace where Wendy and I used to throw water balloons in our free time. He told me that he would give me the password if I did him a "small" favor.

Obviously, I rejected him. I'm not that naive, I read all the warnings that the author gave in the diary. I would never trust B-

"Too many failed attempts, Starting data deletion in 5 minutes 4:59 4:58 4:57...."

Oh yeah, it was bound to happen sooner or later

What was I going to do now? I would lose all the important data and information and goodbye to knowing who the author is. I was screwed!

"Wow, wow, someone seems to be... desperate"?

Bill's arrival in the room scared me and woke me up a little from my sleepwalking state. I hated to admit it, but they were right. I only had 3 minutes (and counting) left to put the last password and if I didn't, the data would be deleted and goodbye to the research I worked so hard on this summer!

—Calm down Pinetree, I'm not asking for much — he hummed mockingly. —All I want is a simple... puppet.

—I will never give you my- wait what? — I looked at him confused. A puppet? What was he playing at?

—Just a puppet. Is there a problem with that? — He was serious, he wanted a puppet.

—No no no, there's nothing wrong with it really but.....

—But?

—Look... my sister Mabel is using them for her puppet show and she's going to use them all (including the ones that are poorly made and the ones that look like they're straight out of a horror movie)

—Oh come on! — he insisted, as he began to float around me –A puppet is a negligible price, and besides…— he approached the rack full of colorful and ugly puppets hanging. he examined them with his one eye carefully. Then, he turned to address me.

—What did your sister Mabel do for you these days? Huh? How many times did you sacrifice things for her? And when did she return the favor…?

I hated to admit it, but he had hit the nail on the head. Maybe that was why I wasn't making progress in my investigation. Besides, she always got what she wanted, while I... well... was a failure, a mockery, the shadow of my sister.

"Why aren't you more like your sister Mason, you should be happier. That way you won't go to..."

For nothing in the world did I want to prove the devil right, but at the same time I only had thirty seconds left and counting. I had to act now.

I sighed – well......

—well? — He turned to look at me. Interested in what I would answer.

—A puppet is a small price to pay, isn't it? — I hope it is because I didn't want to argue with Mabel

—You're right— he affirmed my answer

—Fine, deal— I sealed the deal with a handshake. A bright blue flame shot out of Bill's hand and enveloped both of our hands. At first, I admitted that I was a little scared of getting burned. But oddly, it didn't happen and instead, it felt so satisfying and comfortable. I had already sealed it, there was no turning back...

Well, it turns out that I'm the king of idiots and I screwed up big time by trusting someone like... Bill!

DAMN IT, I'M AN IDIOT! I SHOULD HAVE LISTENED TO THE AUTHOR'S WARNINGS! INSTEAD OF MY DESPAIR! HOW MUCH I HATE MYSELF!

It turns out that Bill didn't want any paper or sock puppets, but he wanted a human one. That Dorito with legs stole my body!

When he took possession of my body, I became a disembodied soul. Or as Bill likes to call it: "Welcome to the Mindscape, kid."

Bill was already inside my body. He made sure to destroy the laptop, saying that its information was getting in the way of his "plans." His next stop would be after the journals, which I fear will end up just like the laptop. I had to hurry.

But there was a problem, how was I going to stop him? As he had said before heading to the theater:

"But how are you going to stop me, if you don't exist?"

Although I still don't understand him, he is partly right about something. Without a body, I was more vulnerable than I already was. Luckily I knew how to use his advantages.

I floated towards the theater. Going through houses and buildings, and came across things that were quite private and disturbing for me. It was easy to go to the theater as a ghost, I would have died of exhaustion if I walked.

When I entered the theater, I saw how Bill interacted calmly with my family and friends, pretending to be me. No one noticed anything strange about me, not even a radical change in my distinctive personality.

Ouch, that hurt...

I went through the dressing room where my sister was. I had thought to talk to her through a puppet that was supposed to be me. I warned her about Bill and that I was going after the diaries. She offered that we could go after Bill and the diaries after the play. Since she is SO BUSY! Trying to impress Gay or Gabriel or... whatever his name is!

I told her that this was serious and that I didn't want to communicate with a ridiculous puppet. Luckily I was able to convince her. She went to get my diary, while I took care of...

Yeah... well... I'D RATHER NOT TALK ABOUT IT, OK!? IT WAS ONE OF THE MOST AWESOME THINGS MABEL MADE ME DO! ENOUGH THAT I HAD TO KISS A FISHY MAN!

While I was dealing with THAT. My sister and Bill fell from the top of the stage into a giant cardboard wedding cake. I moved away from them a little to see the scene. They were fighting, like two gorillas with boxing gloves in a ring.

I kept looking at them in anxious silence. I wanted to help my sister, but being just a soul without a body was useless.

—Give up, shooting star— said the demon above her with intentions of hitting her directly in the brakes

—There's something you don't know, Bill— he said in response, dodging one of his blows – I know all my brother's weaknesses— after saying that he started to…. tickle him?

And it seems that worked because it seemed as if he was going to convulse because of the tickling.

My sister, seeing him so weak because of her tickling, started to run around as if she were the mouse being chased by the exhausted cat, to tire him out even more.

Bill was on the verge of fainting. He couldn't stand another second in that body. My sister had done it. This whole nightmare would end in the end.

—P-ine...tre..ee D-don't y000uoo S-see? — with his last breaths he struggled to formulate words. It sounded like a scratched record, almost unintelligible. —They...will...keep T-T-reaTing YOU LIKE A PATHETIC m–o0ckEry— he continued trying to strain his voice -Wh-don't you S-see?-

—Dipper don't listen to him! — my sister shouted trying to find me, since I didn't have the puppets on that made me visible. I felt like everything around me stopped existing as Bill continued talking. As if it were just me and him. My sister continued to contradict Bill's words —you're not a mockery you're...you're...

—A good brother? —the demon guessed sarcastically. trying to stand up and with a hunched posture —yes... I've heard something like that before... listen to me Dipper, these people don't care about you, even if you do whatever it takes to make them okay

Had he said my name without nicknames? I didn't want to hear it anymore. It hurt me as much as if it were true and not a simple nightmare. Maybe he was right.

The worst thing is that I couldn't try to ignore it, it was with that tone he was directing towards me. He didn't say it with his typical psychopathic or carefree tone, but rather he said it with a more empathetic tone and... of fear. As if he was trying to warn me of something.

—Pinetree we are very similar... mocked by society, trying to fit in and impress people who don't even care about us and after all the sacrifices we make for those people... TELL ME, DID ANYONE HERE RETURN THE FAVOR OR CARE THAT YOU WERE ALIVE?!. JUST LOOK AT THEM PINETREE!, THEY THINK I AM YOU!. DID THEY NOTICE THAT YOU ACT DIFFERENT THAN NORMAL! — Bill pointed at the audience, who were beginning to suspect, disturbed, that this was no longer part of the show. But they continued to watch the performance.

—EVEN YOUR DEAR SISTER DOESN'T CARE ABOUT YOU!, You didn't do her any favors this whole summer!!. SHE USED YOU IDIOT!

—Dipper it's not true — my sister began to shed tears of anguish. The audience continued to watch, noticing that my sister began to cry. Even with their confused and scared looks.

—I won't promise you anything if you help me... You might make things worse than they are. But... don't you want to be heard and valued at last? — he slowly began to regain his balanced posture and offered me a hand. I was in front of him, looking into his full-moon cat eyes.

I thought he was crazier than he was. Why does he help me? Why does he do it? He has everything in the snap of a finger! He doesn't need me, no one... needs me. I felt like an attraction pushing me to give him my hand. Something inside me wanted to grab it.

Suddenly blue flames enveloped my demon-controlled hand. I was surprised, I didn't know my body could be that when Bill was in control.

—What are you saying? Huh?

I felt like I was about to cry. His look at me was understanding and comforting. Nobody cared, and it will always be a stupid mockery for this damn town. Maybe Bill was right this time, even if it was blackmail...

—DIPPER NO! — my sister's pleas made me wake up from my trance –DON'T HELP HIM, HE'S THE ENEMY DIPPER!

—Mason! Say it! Aren't you tired? – he carefully put his hands on my transparent shoulders, I didn't feel his touch.

—I'm…— small transparent tears began to fall from my face.

–Say it

—NO, DIPPER!!!

—I'm tired! — I finished saying between tears and snot that kept coming out. I squeezed his hand. The fire that enveloped our hands spread around us. Until it enveloped us in a vibrant and blinding blue light.

Suddenly the light in the theater went out.

You could hear the audience startle at the power cut.

Suddenly the light came back on

Mabel rubbed her eyes. It took her a few moments to react to what she was seeing. I was standing with my head down. My eyelids wouldn't open. I could hear his footsteps heading towards me.

—Dipper…— came a vague whisper. She seemed scared. —A-are you o-okay? — she stuttered. I'd never heard her stutter before.

—Mabel…— I murmured tiredly, with a half smile. She breathed a sigh of relief. I no longer had Bill's pupils, only my chocolate brown pupils that she liked to pretend were two chocolate chips.

Just when she was a few inches away from me to give me a warm hug, I stopped her with a hand on her chest.

"I'm sorry..." I apologized, stopping smiling. I lowered my head again and after a few seconds, slowly raised it again while letting out a scandalous and chilling laugh.

Mabel noticed that my eyes were no longer the same as always. Instead, they were Bill's characteristic eyes with a mixture of my essence that only she could capture. I pushed her with superhuman strength to get her away from me. She fell like a shooting star backstage. Uncle Stan didn't hesitate for a second to jump out of his seat to rescue my sister.

For the first time, I wasn't worried about what was happening around me, much less the people I was hurting. I felt that not only was I controlling my body, but that a certain demon was doing it too. I raised my hand, continuing with the uncontrolled laughter. By raising my hand, I made a blue flame appear that began to grow until it spread throughout the place.

Many of the audience ran out of control, even Gabe himself "sacrificed" one of the socks to save himself. Mabel, with the little strength she had, tried to push Stan away to stop me. But he held her tightly and led her to the exit near the backstage.

I heard Mabel begging, screaming my name, and saying that she would not leave without her brother.

But unfortunately that brother she longed for so much was gone

I don't know where

But he found someone very similar to him.

And I am sure and I still am that his brother is not coming back...

There were only two people inside that body that called itself Bipper

Dipper and Bill.

Chapter Text

To summarize what happened next:  the flame spread so much that it left the theater in complete ruins —which we were stepping on—. Bill, this time, was possessing and taking all the control of my body while I went back to being a simple useless ghost. He took me out of the place in the golf cart where we were carrying the props. The police were behind us, Bill detoured into the woods to lose sight of them, and… well… you know the rest…

—jumps out of the cart

—W-WHAT?! — I looked at him incredulously. He can't be serious, can he?...

—JUMP OUT OF THE DAMN CART! NOW! — he yelled at me. He jumped off the right side of the cart and rolled like a ball to soften the impact.

I didn't think twice and I floated out of the cart. I perfectly heard the sound of several crashes until it reached the impact. I didn't want to open any of my eyes. I knew that the golf cart was used not only by the employees of the mystery shack but by Grunkle Stan himself. The insurance would kill me if he found the cart like this.

I peeked out a little and saw the golf cart. It was only crushed like a soda can at the front. I let out a sigh of relief, well at least it wasn't that bad.

Suddenly a small creature made of fire with arms and legs of log came hopping over with joy and stopped when they saw the puddle of gasoline that had come out of the cart.

—No no no please no! — I whispered to them.  hoping they could understand me. The creature moved their log leg away from the fuel in slow motion – YES! Very good boy!

I don't know if it was me or it was the sleepless hours, but I swore the thing let out an “Oh uh!” and slowly moved their leg closer to the puddle of fuel again —no no no… I'll do whatever you want! But please don't do it! - I begged. Panic was suffocating me.

The creature kept playing with me, moving its foot closer and further away. Meanwhile, my heart was escaping and returning to my chest. This lasted a few minutes until the creature made of fire decided to move its foot away from the gasoline.

I let out a sigh of relief. Good, at least my Grunkle Stan will not be angry with me and...

I let my guard down for a few seconds and the creature made of fire stepped on the gasoline as if it were a cockroach. They jumped away happily while laughing mockingly.

The flames fiercely consumed the entire car the small fire had caused until it finally exploded. I witnessed everything with my eyes shocked. The parts of the cart that flew out didn't hurt me, but by instinct, I covered myself with my transparent arms.

There were no traces of the cart, only the new license plate that Soos had put on it that rolled away until it fell to the floor.

Yep, Stan was going to kill me.

—Woah! That was a sight — I heard a high-pitched, squeaky voice. I knew who it was, but it was the person I least wanted to see right now. —Wow! The prankster bonfires are so problematic these seasons! But they can’t beat us with the mess we made there. Give me six Pinetree! Or five… or whatever! — He grinned from ear to ear, raising his hand and waiting for me to shake it.

I swear that at this moment all the morals, rules, and behavior I’ve acquired as an average kid had gone to shit, and the only thing left in me was…

A HORRIBLE DESIRE TO CHOKE HIM UNTIL HE STOPS BREATHING AND DISAPPEARS FROM THE FACE OF THE EARTH!

—AAAAAAAAAG I’M GOING TO KILL YOU CIPHER! — I growled ferociously. The only harm I could do to him was pass over him like a stupid ghost and embarrass him further.

No matter how hard I tried and put all my might into the demon,  I did Nothing, absolutely nothing! Not even a little bit of damage.

As the minutes passed I tried to hit him. He remained stiff with the most neutral face possible. I guess this was the daily bread for the triangle.

I looked at my hands confused. Transparent, the green of the grass could be reflected in my arms. It didn't matter what I did, unless Bill gave me my body back I would be a simple and useless…

— ghost — he suspiciously guessed my thought — or a soul wandering around without a body if you want to put it more sophisticated — he added.

My eyes began to glaze over, I felt like hyperventilation was going to take over my lungs. I had never wanted to cry so much as now. I looked back at my hands hoping they would become flesh again. Nothing.

It doesn't matter what I do, even if I ask for forgiveness and for everything to go back to normal. I chose Bill Cipher instead of my family, instead of my sister. I destroyed a theater with my own hands!

—I'm a monster—were the only words I could formulate. My voice couldn't rise any higher, it hurt me enough to admit the reality

—one who has quite a few things to improve—the demon answered unnecessarily with an air of pride, putting his hand on my shoulder. How I really want  to tear his hand off my shoulder—follow me, grumpy–tree —he patted my back walking away from me—let's see what we can do with this sweaty body

follow him!? HIM!? HA! I'd rather be eaten by a Wooberbonker than follow him! He ruined my summer! No, not only that, but MY LIFE AND THE LITTLE RESPECT I HAD! (who am I kidding, that train already sailed centuries ago)

Yes, I would stay here sitting! EVEN IN THE MIDDLE OF-

…nowhere…

I had forgotten how dark it was. And the owl noises reminded me that I had no one and nowhere to go. I was alone and I couldn't trust anyone. Because no one trusted me anymore, right?

I watched as he walked away, manipulating my body like another puppet in the crowd. I couldn't give up that easily and be a ghost forever. I had to find a way to get my body back, and maybe just maybe, get my sister's trust back...my family's trust…

OKAY! I will go with the illuminated Dorito with a creepy eye and an unstable personality. The best and only option I have and it's NOT sarcasm at all!

I floated towards the demon who walked calmly. He whistled like an expert using my lips. My appearance caught his attention and he gave me a mocking look accompanied by a smile full of pride, showing my half-whitened teeth.

Who would have thought I was so hittable?

—look! El perro arrepentido came back — he said in a mocking tone looking at me with his cat-like eyes.  They looked a lot like the old stray cats of Brooklyn.

—Shut it — I muttered crossing my arms and turning around so as not to look at him.

He sighed with slight exhaustion —you get offended pretty quickly Pinetree

—well what did you expect!? You were bothering me and my family during the summer!— I began to count with my fingers all the annoying actions he caused during the holidays  —you get into my Grunkle's mind, you possess my body, you turn the whole town and my family against me and you take me to a forest in the middle of nowhere. What's next?! Are you going to throw me into a ravine while I sleep!?

—In fact, I was going to heal the stupid wounds of this useless body. But I think it's easier to criticize the bad guy always, isn't it?

I wanted to protest about his comment. But I refused to get carried away with this triangle guy.

—Also, I don't think it's possible to throw yourself off a cliff, because if I did, I'd die too

Wait, what!? I looked at him in shock. I was confused. What does he mean if he throws me off a cliff, he'll die?

—Oh right! I forgot to mention the WONDERFUL news! —he exclaimed, slightly irritated. Emphasizing “wonderful” with a lot of irony — it seems that you and I made a deal that was too strong and indestructible. And unless we both fulfill the other's part, it will break. But for the moment, you're tied to me for the rest of your pathetic life…

Wait WHAT!?, Bill said it as if it were the most normal thing in the world. I was shocked. How am I tied to him forever?!

—It's an ancient model of doing deals that only the most powerful demons (like me, obviously darling) can invoke. It's often used when the other part doesn't want to cooperate — he pointed with my finger at my chest, highlighting the latter as if I were lazy — and I can't hurt you, much less kill you, because if I do that, I would die too.

—Wait… wait… —I couldn't help but scream in panic — Y-you're telling me that I... I... I...

Suddenly, his shadow completely overshadowed me and I noticed that he had me close enough to intimidate me. —You're tied to me now, little Pinetree, and unless I don't have what I want, you'll stay here with me for the rest of your miserable life of a meat sack…

His yellowish eyes and his breath near my face made me dizzy with panic. I felt a sharp pain in my stomach when I heard: "for the rest of your life." I've never been good at hiding my anxiety or panic attacks. —and even less avoiding it— including people who didn't know me noticed it with the naked eye. It's something I'd like to control but it's impossible. No matter how much I inhale and exhale. It just happened.

—Hey... everything okay? — Shit, he noticed it. I quickly rubbed the little tears and tried to regulate my breathing so I could speak better. 

—O-okay!? Do you th-think I'm o-okay!? —I stuttered, straining my voice to speak — I NEVER WANTED THIS! You...you...you TRICKED ME!

He laughed bitterly —Do you think I wanted this!? Your human brain isn't capable of processing the damn idea of ​​how difficult it is to deal with these types of deals! I'm also at risk here in case you don't realize!

There was silence. Neither of us could say a word to the other, I guess we had enough scandal today. Bill's sigh was the one that cut the ice to speak again.

—Look, I understand you, buddy. You're confused, scared, and lost. But I propose something to you: … if we work together and finish this once and for all…— he paused thoughtfully—you can go back to your family!

—In case you didn't forget: you're Bill Cipher, I know what you want! You're going to cause some kind of end of the world to rule us and stuff. You will surely hurt my family

—Correction: it's a never-ending party in the multiverse, idiot— I complained upon receiving the insult —and I promise you that I won't hurt them. Besides, if I did, the consequences for me would be horrible. You have no idea what happens when one doesn't fulfill their part in these types of deals…

I thought about it a bit, on the one hand, I would feel bad for helping him cause his “never-ending party.” But if I finish this quickly, I can leave, apologize to my family, tell them everything Bill is up to, and come up with a plan to stop him. They'll know that I couldn't do anything to stop him, that my life was literally at stake if I didn't do my part of the deal.

They'll understand… they'll surely understand…

And maybe in the meantime, I can figure out a way to break this deal and get away from him as soon as possible.

—ugh, ok! I'll do it — Bill let out a big, grateful smile. Geez, I didn't think my eyes could get that big and inhuman when I'm really happy — but remember I'm only doing it because I want to finish this soon…

—Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I'd hug you, but the affection that meat bags give is very uncomfortable, and you're also transparent — Bill looked like a happy child, like when they promised them a delicious dessert. Which makes it strange to me that he behaves in such a… childish way.

I just blinked only twice and Bill had already walked away from me. I was about to ask him where he was going, but he let out a shout saying that I should follow him and that he knew a place to stay.

This would be a long night

After negotiating for camping supplies with the gnomes —giving them a jar of butterflies that Bill suspiciously found — we continued walking a few more hours through the forest until we reached our destination. I have no idea where Bill wanted to go, with every step we took, there were fewer paranormal creatures.

Deer and squirrels hiding behind the woods, herds of Mantaurs galloping as if it were the end of the world, and even mosquitoes biting with bad spelling on the arms of my possessed body “EN OF ROD” although Bill enjoyed being bitten.

Are they afraid of Bill? Or are they warning us of something terrible at the end of the road?

Finally, I interrupted his cheerful humming to ask him why the creatures were acting so strangely.

—Oh! Them? Don't worry, Pinetree! — he answered nonchalantly —they're just too afraid of being near the exit of the town, that's all.

—Why? Is there something worse there? — I swallowed to drown my fear of a possible beast waiting for us

He laughed with his typical maniacal and unbridled laughter —no, silly! It's just that they're too afraid of leaving here. You know, the usual stuff: bounty hunters, the reporters, scientists trying to dissect them. The usual stuff. Once the unicorns saw how they had opened the stomach of one of their friends. and from that point on they were tougher on humans.

—Ouch.. — I had forgotten how dangerous it can be for creatures to be near humans. I looked a deer straight in the eyes that had passed through the trees, I felt very scared when I saw that he also exchanged a look with me. That peace that his brown eyes transmitted. After a few seconds, the deer galloped away.

—Come on Pinetree, we're almost there! — he woke me from my thoughts and I headed to pick up the pace.

We arrived at a desolate and quiet area of ​​the forest. Very close to the exit of the town, Bill put the sleeping bags and left his black coat on a log. —Very good Pinetree! Now,  I need you to return to your body. I have to heal these wounds — Bill brought me back to reality. Can I return to my body? And he allowed me to do it?

—Come on Pinetree! Don't be shy, I'm not going to do anything bad to you

I watched as he strongly stretched a piece of medical tape that came in the camp kit. I gave him an uncertain look, I don't think it's a good idea that the demon who sticks forks in his arms to heal me. Besides, it's his fault that I ended up hurt.

—Come on Pinetree! , I'll be careful— Bill began to turn around the adhesive tape with his index finger while speaking with a sweet tone that was too fake

I let out an uncomfortable moan. I don't know what was worse: being healed with Mabel's princess bandages or being healed by that brute of  Bill.

—I won't hurt you that much! I promise! — Bill tried to show confidence. Although those characteristics did not fit his personality at all —Cipher's promise! —He added while raising his pinky finger in a sign of promise. 

I couldn't help but think how foolish it was to trust Bill Cipher as if I was going to fall for that twice! But when I saw him he wasn't joking and he was completely willing to heal the wounds of the body he possessed and shared with me... I couldn't help but doubt my position.

I stood up from the log I was sitting on to levitate and crossed my arms trying not to make eye contact with the other –fineeee! But if you break something and make me suffer more than necessary, I'll go far away where you'll never see me again! DID YOU HEAR ME CIPHER?! — Bill raises an eyebrow with a sly smile on his face.

I know he only wants a physical body to complete his plan, I don't even matter to him in the slightest and I don't even like him, but we both have to work together if we want this to end soon.

—DAMN IT BILL!  THE CIPHER'S PROMISE IS A SHIT!

After returning to my body, I felt like I was going to melt like the evil witch from the Wizard of Oz. How can Bill stand to possess this?! And it got worse when Bill tried to put the bandages on with hydrogen peroxide. It was a naval battle. And the results: everything hurts and I already threw up more than twice. I should have at least taken that Mabel’s juice. 

—Don't be so exaggerated, little Pinetree. Here, drink this. It will make you feel better

Bill gave me a big surprise when he left my body. He wasn't the triangle with stick legs and arms that I had faced before. Rather, his head was a triangle with his signature single eye, but with a humanoid body of about a pre-teen or teenager. He was tall and it hurt me a lot to look into his eyes because of how bright his triangle face was.  And the most curious thing, and what struck me the most, was that it had a mouth under its only eye. Which was disturbing and very weird to see. 

I looked at the food he gave me with a little distaste. I wasn't picky with the food, but this didn't look good at all. —Don't be picky, Pinetree—Bill snorted. —It's deer broth, it'll make you feel much better. Besides, it has a lot of protein and more so its teeth.

—Teeth!? — Okay, it's clear that I won't eat it. But even though my brain refused to tell my stomach not to eat it, it was roaring with hunger for not having eaten food for several days. I took a deep breath and closed my eyes tightly. I drank the broth in one gulp, then coughed uncontrollably for having choked on a piece of deer. This made the demon burst out laughing.

—You better have another bowl of deer's soup, you have to have energy for tomorrow.

—And what are we going to do? — I said, putting another bowl of broth in my mouth. Hunger makes you eat the most disgusting thing in the world.

—We'll go finish the job,  by visiting your family

I spat out all the broth, apart from choking me back with a deer tooth. The idea of ​​tomorrow startled me more. Bill put a hand on his mouth to hold back his laughter —The faster the better, Pinetree —he said patting me on the back —What? Don't you want to get rid of me?

—Of course, I want to finish this quickly! —I moved away from him so he would stop caressing me and turned my back on him —It's just that…

The demon understood —Listen, I know you're afraid of what they'll think but… you're literally being forced! You're like a hostage! If you explain it to them maybe they won't be angry anymore and… they'll understand you!

—It's not very easy if you help your captor commit a crime, don't you think? —I curled up into a ball resting my head on my knees. I didn't want to do this to my family in exchange for my freedom —apart from that I would live with the guilt, and I would never forget it

—The bad thing about these games…— he said, resting his hand on my shoulder. I looked up at him —is that the player never forgets the moves he made in the past…believe me Pinetree, sometimes I would like to forget the past moves I've made or start over and avoid them…yep, time is one of the enemies of this life…

Who would say that even demons can make mistakes…

—and that's why I want to destroy time. Without the structured rules of time and space, I could do whatever I wanted! Wow! It sounds so fun! – he said dreamily as if he were a child who wanted to be an astronaut. Only Bill's intentions are more…. Dark.

—Well! —said Bill as he got up from the log —time to sleep, Pinetree, don't forget, turn off the light, don't stay up late, and…oh yeah! I forgot!  dreams of many nightmares! Bye byeeeeee!

A flash of light blinded my vision. Taking Bill with him. All I knew was that he disappeared. I don't know where but he disappeared….

Nah, he couldn't have gone very far.

"Thanks, Mom," I said through bitter teeth but I laughed softly anyway. I put the bowl of soup aside, turned off the flaming red flame of the campfire, and opened the sleeping bag to rest a little from the scandalous week I had. There was a lot to process, the puppet show, the possession, my family, Bill…

I had many questions and theories formulated in my mind related to the being full of chaos. What is his plan? Or has he made any mistakes in his life? Apart from making this chain of servitude and horror, why me?...

I don't know. I didn't want to think about my family and even less about Bill. I wanted to rest and imagine that none of this happened and that it was just a dream, a very bad dream.

I focused on turning off my thoughts and dreaming of nice things, I didn't want to have my daily nightmares. Not right now…

Chapter Text

Thinking about puppies and kittens, like the advice my sister Mabel once gave me, didn't work for me.

The rumors were true. Being around Bill gave me nightmares, whether it was intentional or unintentional. This time, it was one of my typical nightmares, but with flashbacks to the catastrophic events that had happened today.

I was on the theater stage. Everyone was pointing at me in horror, while the spotlights blinded my eyes. They pointed at me in horror, using their fingertips, which were getting bigger and bigger. I turned around and Mabel was lying on the floor, dead, bleeding out a strange black liquid. Mabel slowly turned her head and looked at me with empty black eyes, black tears falling from her eyes. She pointed at me with a wrinkled, warty hand, saying that this was all my fault. I heard the audience's voices, all their eyes on me, calling me a monster. I couldn't stop crying and screaming for forgiveness. I wanted this to end. 

But everything changed when the stage floor began to crumble beneath my feet. I began to fall into a dark, endless void; it felt like I was falling into the bottomless pit again. Finally, I abruptly fell into nothingness itself. Everything around me was black for every inch of space I walked. I tried to scream, but no one answered.

As I walked a little further, my heart pounding, I began to hear sobs in the distance. I began to use the sobs to guide me to find someone. The figure of someone loomed as I approached the sobs. As I got closer and could see him better, I was able to identify him as a child in 20th-century period clothing, on his knees, sobbing. I felt a little sorry for him and had a strong urge to comfort him.

— Hey kid... Are you okay? —I asked, kneeling to be at his level, placing a hand on his little shoulder. Perhaps he didn't pay attention to me because his back was turned, and his hands covered his little face.

He reacted by slowly turning around and taking his hands off his little face. And I was surprised to see his face revealed:

….Bill?

—PINETREE, WAKE UP!

I woke up with a start, sweating from fear. And I bumped my head into Bill, who was floating above me with an emergency horn in his hands.

The sound of the horn woke me up from my strange dream. I don't know whether to call it a dream, a nightmare, or an ancient vision…

He started laughing out loud. His laughter was loud and annoying, enough to make a baby cry or even deafen an elderly person. —You should have seen your face!... it's... you're... ALL SWEATY! — He laughed again as he lay down on the grass. Laughing as if there were no tomorrow, as if I weren't going through the worst situation of my life.

His breathing began to regulate as he leaned against a log to stand up. —Ow!...Ow!...don't tell me you peed your pants?... Or I'd have bought you a diaper!—and he lay down on the grass again, convulsing with laughter. I was getting sick of hearing that damn laugh all the time. I didn't want to say I almost peed myself, I was as red as a tomato.

—BILL, IT'S 5 AM! IT'S TOO EARLY! STOP WITH YOUR NONSENSE!—I yelled angrily, hoping he'd stop laughing. I turned abruptly to lie again in the sleeping bag and rested my head on the pillow, covering my ears so as not to hear him.

He leaned closer, lifting my pillow a little to whisper in my ear with a too-false sweetness. —Actually... It's 2 in the morning, Pinetree…hehe..

Wait... I'D ONLY SLEEP FOR 2 HOURS!? THAT DAMN NIGHTMARE WAS ONLY TWO HOURS!?

—WHAT!? WHY DID YOU WAKE ME UP SO EARLY, YOU IDIOT?! — I got up from my bag and threw a pillow at him, which very obviously went right through him.

—Well... as an old man once said, the early bird catches the worm.

—Yeah…but…Don't exaggerate, man! — I abruptly stood up, putting on the vest of the priest's suit that was lying on the log.

—When people are sleeping is the best time to move forward with our wonderful plan— he playfully touched my nose —you better not screw up, Pinetree.

—Yeah, yeah, whatever. Let's get this done — I replied reluctantly. I spread my arms and legs as a signal for Bill to take control of my body. I had to admit, with the immortal treaty binding us, it was pretty easy for both of us to enter and exit my body.

The moon shone and illuminated our path. There was a light, cool breeze I'd never felt during the day in the town. Several animals and paranormal creatures began to emerge from the shadows, creatures I'd never witnessed during the day and that weren't in the diary. I guess nighttime was a safer time for them.

Bill jumped over various logs or walked over them, ate bugs he found on the ground, and sometimes quickened his pace, running like an off-leash dog.

Bill bowed and told me we'd arrived. The Mystery Shack. What more can I say about it? A tourist trap for fools who don't know how to manage their money, and at the same time, a place my sister and I used to call our second home.

But if it were my home, why was I so afraid to enter? My legs wobbled for no reason, and an anxiety began to grow inside my chest, stabbing at my throat, forbidding me to speak. Why was this happening to me? Since when am I afraid of a stupid tourist attraction where I spent the summer and met amazing people who became my family and lived with... my best friend? My sister…Could it be that I'm not ready to go back and face the consequences after what I did?

—Maso- I mean! Dipper! Pinetree! Ugh... what I mean is... if you don't want to do it, I understand. — Bill woke me from my trance. He sounded …worried?

—NO! I mean!... Excuse me... I'm fine... I-I can do this! — I lowered my gaze and clenched my fists tightly, containing all my anxiety within my knuckles. —Let's get this over with this...

I approached the door and pressed my ear to it. Nothing, not even the sound of the television. They must have been asleep.

—All clear. Now, how are we going to-

The sound of something sharp breaking panics me a lot. I floated in the direction the sound was coming from and found Bill with a crowbar in his hands, breaking down the door to get into the shack.

—Sure, or… WE CAN VANDALIZE THE PLACE! GOOD THINKING, CIPHER! What's next? ARE WE GOING TO GRAPHIC BIPPER ALL OVER THE CEILING WITH GRAFFITI CANS?!?

—Actually, that doesn't sound bad at all…

—I swear, if someone hears you…

—Pfff-, please, Pinetree… Who would be up at this hour? —Mabel and Stan would be. Sometimes we'd stay up late, watching a ridiculous but entertaining show, and other times my Grunkle would stay up late. I'm not sure exactly what he does at this hour. Maybe counting money, I guess?

After Bill crashed into the walls inside (on purpose) and stole a bunch of forks, we arrived at the cabin's store, a place where tourists spend money on fake and useless trinkets. My gaze shifted from the jar of googly eyes at the register to Bill. He was strangely still and quiet, staring at the vending machine.

—What's up, Bill? Did you finally decide to shut up and behave? — I joked to get his attention.

The demon rolled his eyes in annoyance. —It's just…— Bill looked back at the vending machine.

—Is it just... what?— I approached him. With my gaze, I scanned the entire contents of the machine, from the chocolate bars on top to the bags of chips below. There weren't any unusual marks on them. They didn't even look old or expired.

—Since you ask…— He placed both hands on my shoulders, looking at me with a seriousness that made me quite uncomfortable, even though I couldn't feel his hands resting on them thanks to my soul form. —Listen to me, Dipper. What I'm about to tell you could change everything you think and believe about your family...

I looked into his eyes, confused. I didn't know why I had to be impressed by the private details of my family, even though sometimes I was curious to know. I promised myself I'd be prepared for anything when I got into his game.

he sighs —Do you think your Grunkle Stan is your Grunkle Stan? 

—Excuse me? — I pulled away from his grasp and looked at him with wide eyes. —What does my Grunkle Stan have to do with all of this?

—Do you believe what he claims to be? That he's just an old con man running a fake tourist attraction to trick people? Do you believe what he claims to be? — What did my Grunkle Stan have to do with any of this? He never believed in the strange things my sister and I encountered that summer. Until the zombies and the agents happened. Even so, he still didn't take us seriously, but he was on guard to protect us. He always made fun of me for being just a kid. However, he loved my sister and me very much. He would do anything for us! I can't believe the idea that our Grunkle is much more than a tourist scammer. I don't want to believe it!

—Dipper thinks! Don't you think he's hiding something?!

Many memories came flooding back. I tried to remember something suspicious he might have done, but nothing out of the ordinary, nothing so serious. I kept fidgeting with my hands and looking around, desperately searching for a fixed point to avoid Bill's gaze. I don't want to accept the fact that my uncle has been lying to me. 

Bill sighed and approached the vending machine, turning his back on me with an air of disappointment. —I know you don't want to believe it... But I'll prove it to you. 

He turned his yellow cat-like eyes on my flustered, frightened gaze. —Make sure no one enters here. I'll take care of the difficult part —  he ordered with a domineering air, turning his gaze to the machine's buttons.

Bill pressed buttons uncontrollably, and it seemed like his attempts were failing whenever he saw a bag of food or some snack fall out of the machine. “What was he trying to do?" I wondered internally. The machine was trying his patience, making him upset and frustrated like a little kid. I wanted to laugh, but it wasn't the right time.

When he entered the code for the ninth time, the candy stopped falling out. Surprisingly, it opened like a sliding door, revealing a narrow passageway with old stairs. My eyes widened. I couldn't believe it, didn't want to believe it. Since when has that thing been there? Why had I never noticed? Is this a trick, Bill's tricking me for? I want to believe Bill is tricking me. I'd rather he trick me to my face than suspect that…

—Ha! The ninth time's always the charm! —

I had no words; I felt like a pin was stuck in the middle of my throat, preventing me from speaking. My mind was whirring with questions as always. But the answer scared me too much; the idea of ​​finding out something I didn't want to believe… terrified me.

—Dipper?

A soft, concerned voice forced us both to turn around in panic. I wish it were a cursed doll that had come to life with moonlight and was here for revenge. I preferred that a thousand times over, but I got something much worse…

—Dipper? — My sister Mabel asked again; she wasn't the only one confused. —What are you doing? 

All my family and friends were here, at least the closest ones, Soos, Mabel, and… Grunkle Stan is carrying a gun!?

I took a huge leap to get Bill out of my body and take control of my body. —This isn't what-

—GET OUT OF MY NEPHEW'S BODY, YOU INHUMANE TRASH! — My Grunkle roared like a lion. Pointing his revolver at my nose, determined to shoot at all costs.

—Woh woh woh, calm down, Mr. Pines! — Soos tried to calm him down, feigning to grab him and pull him away from me. —I think he is…

—DIPPER IS DEAD, SOOS! — My uncle yelled, abruptly stepping away from him and pointing the gun at me again. —All that's left of him is his body with that DAMN DEMON INSIDE IT!

My family thought I was Bill, and that I was... dead?

—But Grunkle!... he doesn't have those terrifying cat pupils anymore! It's him! — My sister tried to explain from behind. —D-Dipper? It's me, Mabel! Mabel! Remember me? — She stood in front of my Grunkle and raised both arms, expecting a warm, embarrassing sibling hug.

My mouth sealed in pain, the small tears that flowed from my eyes left my vision blurry. I felt like my world was falling apart, and my head kept mixing with the voices I heard inside me...I felt like I was going to faint.

I didn't know who to look at was worse.

To Soos, one of the coolest people I met this summer, who signed up for everything I suggested. Now he just looked at him with a confused face, trying to control my Grunkle.

To Mabel, my best friend and sister, who, despite ignoring me all summer, made me feel better during the worst moments of my life. Now, she was just smiling nervously, trying to recapture the brother she knew.

Or my Grunkle Stan, who made our summer so much more fun and who loved us so much, even if he wouldn't admit it out loud. Now he had a gun in his hands, determined to shoot, he didn't matter who was inside that body.

Despite the humiliation, the ignorance, the mockery, the loneliness, and sometimes not believing in myself, they were still my family. But... I'm afraid to know that whatever is down there is going to reveal my greatest fears.

What if Bill was right? What if my Grunkle isn't what he is? What if that includes my family and friends I made in Gravity Falls? The author was right, there's no one to trust. Not even your own family.

A loud, abrupt explosion interrupted us. A part of the ceiling ripped off and began to float. And from there, Bill appeared, visible to everyone. Bill was the only thing shining brightly besides the moon, and he was armed with two balls of blue fire surrounding both of his hands.

—I can't believe this… — my Grunkle muttered in bitterness, watching in amazement as the roof of his beloved Shack collapsed. —That damn…

—YES, IT'S ME! ​​BE AFRAID! And... blah blah blah, the all-knowing, omnipotent triangle, 'You won't get away with this, Bill!'" Yeah, yeah, yeah... save the hate speech and the "I can redeem you" stuff— he mocked. I think everyone was expecting something more terrifying and creepy than... this, including me."

Suddenly, I felt a grab. He swept me up in his arms, grabbing both of my legs with one hand and the other around my waist, effortlessly. He took off, flying upwards like a rocket, saying goodbye to my confused family with a loud, resounding "BYEEEEEEEE!"

We landed in a desolate part of the forest. I could tell we were near the camp by the eye marks on the trees. Bill gently put me down.

—Ugh! Damn! — The demon moaned as he stretched his arms, fingers, and legs. —Wow! It's a good thing your family believed the optical illusion! HA HA HA!. What do you think, Pinetree? Pinetree? 

I was silent, not making a sound. I just stood there, as if I were lifeless. Do I even have a life?

—Pinetree...? — he asked again, a little worried.

—I'm dead…— I mumbled. —I'm... dead. —  I looked at him in panic, with an oddly large smile, and began to laugh uncontrollably. My eyes burned with tears of laughter, as if they were about to bleed.

—Hey…hehe…very funny, —  he laughed uncomfortably, —but…I’d like you to explain the joke to me…

The laughter was so loud and unstoppable that it could make me deaf. Slowly, that outrageous laughter turned into a painful cry.

—No, no, no, Pinetree, don’t do this to me— he said, upset, trying to calm me down. —I have no experience with…— the sound of my crying grew louder, making it difficult to speak over myself, —…human emotions

I didn’t want to cry, but I couldn’t stop. I was so blinded by the pain that burned me inside, and wouldn’t let me hear my mental voice. I only hear voices and repetitions of the one word that stuck in my head: “he’s dead,” “dead,” “you don’t exist anymore.” I’d rather have a fork stuck in me than this.

Bill was also in a critical moment. And the first thing that came to mind was “human contact,” or, translated, hugging me and trying to find the right words to comfort me. He's terrible at it, but I appreciated that he tried.

—Oh, Mason —  he comforted me, stroking my head. —It wasn't the time, the place, or the moment to do it… I know it can be hard to face the fact that everyone is against you now. But don't worry, I... I... I'll train you and turn you into a heachmaniac! Like me! We'll try again, and everything will return to normal…

Normal? That normal I knew had disappeared from my hands. Will my family love me again? Or will they just think I'm a lost cause, and all there is a monster in the skin of a corpse?

I pulled away from the hug a little to look at him uncertainly. —Would everything go back to the way it was? 

—I promise you, Pin-...Dipper…— he wiped away a small tear with his thumb with a loving smile. —After the storm passes, the deal will be broken, and say goodbye to me forever!. I have faith that we'll make it... That you will make it… —  Bill lit up the forest more than the moon. 

No one had ever trusted me so much, just for being such a weakling. Maybe he was manipulating me, but… he made me feel like I was someone important and valuable…Something I have never felt before. 

—Bill? —  I said, wiping my tears with my arm.

—Yes, Pinetree? — he asked sweeter. Holding my shoulders with his hands

—You… you’re horrible at comforting people…

—Ha! Thanks…— he said with obvious sarcasm. — Now stop crying like a little boy and let’s go to sleep!  I’ll let you sleep a little longer since I don’t want to be in a sweaty, grimy body again… Yuck! How long has it been since you showered, Pinetree?!

Bill was right. It will be difficult with my loved ones against me now. But I’m not going to throw in the towel and give up just because they think I don’t exist anymore. I’m not going to give up on getting back the family I lost, like Bill said. He'll train me, I'll end this deal, and I'll get my life back.

I admit it's not easy, but... how hard can it get?

Chapter Text

I was sweating more than usual, grunting to stifle the pain, and constantly shifting positions while sleeping. My head was aching, and I was pretty fed up with having nightmares.

The bad thing about living with Bill is that when he's around, he'll not only give you headaches and eye pain, but also nightmares. Bill explained to me that sometimes he did it on purpose, out of revenge or as a joke, but other times he couldn't control it. So the myth that Bill Cipher causes nightmares when he's even an inch close is completely true.

Well, he's the dream demon. What did I expect? Dreams of handsome princes and glitter!?.
My nightmares were the same as always: Being chased by bullies, meeting the author of the diaries and being his biggest disappointment, and being rejected by Wendy. The weird thing is that this is the second time I've dreamed about the same kid with old clothes, a triangular head, and completely in black and white. I'm 100% sure it's Bill, but I don't dare ask him. Maybe he'll change the subject, or worse! He'll distort my face by replacing my eyes with ears!

—Another nightmare? — guessed the triangle. I sat down and nodded, touching my eyes to make sure they weren't ears. Bill kept staring up at the sky with the millions of stars that adorned it. Its three perfectly equilateral sides shone a rather warm yellow. He looked like a living lantern, brighter than the moon.

He chuckled, a little embarrassed. His voice was strangely soft and calm. —I'm sorry, but you know there are nightmares wherever I go. Besides…— He paused to look at me. —You look so adorable when you're scared! — He laughed raucously, pointing his finger at me. —Just look at you! It's like a big cow peed on you! HAHAAHA!
Perfectly, Bill and his horrible laugh, what I was missing! I turned around, with my arms crossed, facing away from him so he wouldn't see my bright red face. I didn't want him to make fun of my face, thinking I was a tomato.

—Ah!... okay... okay... I'll stop... I'll stop…— he began to regulate his breathing. —I have an idea to help you, Pinetree — He wiped a black tear and headed toward my sleeping bag, putting his arms behind his head and lying down next to me. —When I was a kid, my mom... used to sing lullabies to help me sleep...

—Mom? — I asked without thinking. Bill Cipher has a mom?

—Even the most powerful demons have moms, Pinetree. Well, only some…

—Hey, no offense but ... I thought you were created by an explosion or a glitch in the universe.

—You offend me, but at the same time, I wish I had been born like this. Besides, where I come from, some people reproduce asexually... but I'm not here to tell you dirty stories! — I laughed a little. Bill was nudging me and ruffling my hair with amusement.

—So... How does the song begin? — I asked, settling into the sleeping bag.

—My mother sang me quite a few songs... It's hard to remember. But I'll try my best so your ears are blessed by my majestic voice or…maybe bleed…— I let out a small laugh. Bill took his time remembering the song, and after a few seconds, he began to sing it:

“Rockabye dipper…please don’t you cry…”

“It’s not your fault…if you are special…”

I didn't want to feed Bill's ego. But he was right. He sang very well, his voice was mellow, soft, and confident… You could say it belongs to a lullaby that a mother might sing to her child. Bill still had his eyes on the stars, his hands dancing to the music, connecting the dots of the constellations so they would come alive.

Big Dipper, little Dipper, Cancer, Williams. All those constellations came alive and went near us as they danced and ran around in a circle. As if the stars could breathe.

“Stays safe with me…you’ll never fall”
“And I always love you…with your stubbornness and all”

It was obvious the song was improvised to suit me, but Bill knew the melody and rhythm by heart. I wish I knew what that lullaby sounds like. As the song progressed, my eyelids slowly began to close, and I began to dig deeper into the bag. He was still making the living stars dance with the gentleness of his hand, showing me a new universe.

“Rockabye dipper…please don’t you cry…”

“It’s not your fault…if you are special…”

Still, I didn't trust Bill much, even though he saved me and comforted me. I can't sink that low. I have to stay strong and remember that he's just a demon who seeks to destroy just for fun...even though...maybe...he's just like everyone else in this tiny universe. A star among millions of stars in the sky.

Damn!, I'm so weak!, but I can't help it…. I can sympathize with Bill a little. My mother used to sing me lullabies for my constant insomnia and nightmares. Maybe I can let this go, but I'll still keep my eyes open on him.

“Stays safe with me…you’ll never fall”
“And I always love you…with your stubbornness and all”

I yawned, unable to keep my eyes fully open.
My mind was numb enough to think about difficult decisions like these. I'm going to rest, and tomorrow I'll look at other options to get out of this mess without having to cause the apocalypse.
Bill had finished his song, and my eyes finally gave in. I was on the verge of sleep. But at least I no longer felt anxious about having a nightmare worse than the last one.

—Rest well, Pinetree. Tomorrow I'll exhaust you, leaving you without sweat or tears.

Good ni- WAIT WHAT?!

"Rockabye Billy, please don't you cry"

"It's not your fault you have that strange eye"

"Stay safe with mommy, you'll never fall"

"And we'll always love you, sharp angles and all"

WHY DID YOU DO IT!?

Chapter Text

I've never been lost in Gravity Falls. I could reach the deepest part of the forest and return to the Mystery Shack with a pile of branches and a few scrapes. But this was very different. My survival skills and agility to enter the most unknown parts of the forest were gone. And I felt completely lost.

It was quite strange, and I was 100% sure that these trees I was walking through weren't the same ones I'd been strolling through on those summer afternoons. The atmosphere of this forest was different, and I'm not referring to the different types of trees or flowers that don't grow in the area. It was snowing, snow in the middle of summer. At the beginning of my walk, I was walking under the green leaves and the scorching summer heat. But the further I walked, the colder the atmosphere became, the leaves turned warmer, and they fell from the trees, leaving them completely bare. The gentle summer breeze turned into a wild, colder breeze. Like a movie transition showing the forest's gradual change as the seasons change.

I felt a sensation, a kind of impulse, that urged me forward and onward along the snow-covered path. The strange thing was that I didn't feel cold, even though the wind blew wildly, and the fact that  I was wearing boxer shorts and a T-shirt without sleeves. This had to be a dream, or maybe a nightmare.

I yelled Bill's name, asking if he was messing with my head again. But only the silence of the cold breeze answered my words. I couldn't even hear Bill's characteristic manic, childish laugh.

A flickering light caught my attention. It had the same brightness as Bill's; it could be him. As I got closer, the path narrowed thanks to the trees that were stuck together. Clearing up my doubt that this might be a dream were the details of the trees; the lines in the bark formed faces of pure agony, faces of people who, luckily for me, weren't my family, but the way they moved closer to me as they writhed forward was still disturbing. Congratulations, Bill! You just made it into the top 5 of the strangest and scariest nightmares I've ever had! Happy?!

The path widened, but there were still trees with human faces scattered everywhere. Each face is more terrifying than the last. When I got to where the light was, I thought it was Bill or the younger version of him I sometimes saw in my dreams. But I only found a boy of my age wearing a gnome hat and a navy blue cape. The boy was curled up in a ball, clutching his knees underneath the cape. Branches from the same trees in the forest were tangled all over his body. I couldn't see his face; it was glued to his knees. I could only see his lips and the big tears falling from his cheeks. Next to him was the object from which the flickering light was coming: an old oil lantern whose light was slowly fading.

—H-hey? Are you okay? — I approached, trying to put a hand on his shoulder.

—I-I...I...ki…ll...h..im—he mumbled something unintelligible. The branches continued to grow, this time on the sides of his head. —I-I...I...

—Hey...it’s ok! ... I said in a vague attempt to comfort him. I bent down to be at his eye level and placed a hand on his shoulder. Giving it a gentle squeeze, —Tell me, is there something I-

He abruptly removed my hand from his shoulder as he stood up, pushing me back. I felt like some kind of rope was tying my legs, preventing me from standing. I looked down, and they were the same branches the boy had, trying to catch my body. I gasped in fright. I tried to free myself, but the same branches were secured to my legs and were extending above my waist.

—I...I killed him…— he repeated with more intensity and anguish. —I KILLED HIM! —

When he opened his eyes, I noticed they were a combination of multiple bright and striking colors. The color scheme of his orbs was light blue, with yellow in the middle and small red pupils at the end. The branches growing on his head turned into long deer antlers. His skin was discolored, and the closer you got, the more his appearance deteriorated until it was similar to a corpse. But the most shocking thing was the branches piercing his stomach and protruding into the joints of his arms, where a kind of sticky black slime oozed from the wounds caused by the branches and into his eyes, replacing the tears.

The branches continued to grow around me and began to squeeze me tighter. The agonized wails of the antler-wearing boy further blocked my thoughts, not knowing what to do. I screamed Bill's name at the top of my lungs. My life now depended on him, if this wasn't a dream.

Before a branch swung toward my mouth and pierced my insides.The sound of a horn woke me up.

I woke up from the horrible dream, my heart pounding out of my chest. Recognizing Bill's boisterous laughter, the acceleration turned to relief, orienting me to where I was. It had just been a bad dream... a strangely bad dream...

—I'M WOKE UP, MORON! STOP THAT HELLISH THING! — I scolded him.

He stopped honking the fire horn. And he gave me a wide smile that pretended to be innocent, but betrayed the devil's characteristic mischief. —Good morning, my beautiful Pinetree~! Tell me, how sweaty were you today~? Did you change your diapers or something~? — His maniacal laughter no longer relieved me; it annoyed me. Bill continued to mock me, taking advantage of my annoyance. I threw the coat  I used as a pillow at him, which was always in vain because it only pierced through him because of his spectral form.

It would be hard to get used to that sickening laugh.

—You better have another good reason for waking me up early, Cipher, or else...

— Actually, it’s three in the afternoon, Pinetree-pooh~

—What?! — I couldn't have slept for a long time.  I look at the sky. Here in the summer, the sun is strongest after two o'clock. And right now, it was powerful. I refuse to admit it out loud, but... Bill had kept his word.

—See, Pinetree? — he smiled proudly. —I always keep my word. 

—Only when it suits you! — I felt embarrassed heat up my cheeks. —Ouch! — Suddenly, he started throwing dirty clothes in my face. Some I could recognize were mine, others I couldn't. —Get dressed, Pinetree! we have a lot of work to do today. —  He gave me a wicked grin and threw a leather belt at me, hitting me hard on the forehead.

I rubbed my forehead to soothe the pain. —Are you talking about the training?

—Yep! With the toughest tests man could have ever faced!. With super-cool song playing in the background, I'll turn you, my dear Pinetree, into a Hechmaniac!

I blinked in confusion. Not understanding what Bill was referring to, maybe it was because I feel very tired and had a bad nightmare—a...what?

—They're the most powerful and chaotic demons in the entire multiverse! And I don't mean to brag, but... I'm one of the strongest among them—he smiled again, pride swelling in his chest while I rubbed my sleepy eyes.

—Huh?

—Ugh, you know what? Forget it —frustrated, he threw more clothes in my sleepy face again. —Get dressed, Babygirl! We don't have all damn day!

—Stop throwing clothes at me! — I exclaimed, pulling an underwear out of my face. —Besides... where did you get so many clothes? I don't remember packing that much…— I showed him a schoolgirl skirt too short for a high school student to wear. And this hadn't gotten mixed up with my sister's clothes in my luggage.

—Oh, Pinetree... you don't want to know that...

—It's not from a corpse, right?

—...

—It's not from a corpse?... right?... —I said  more seriously

Okay, that awkward silence answered my question.

—Bill?

—Yes, Pinetree?

—....could you put the damn gnomes down... on top of me!?

Bill decided to do a typical PE warm-up, and what better idea than to put gnomes on my back so I could do push-ups

—Don't be lazy, Pinetree! This will help you strengthen those noodle arms.

—I WAS BORN THIS WAY, BILL!

—Shut it already! —Jeff the gnome interrupted, who, despite being still angry at me for not letting him marry my sister, decided to help me under threat and because he found it fun to see me suffer. There were three more of his friends on my back as if riding me like a pony. To top it off, the most irritating thing was that they were counting my push-ups. But in a language I barely understood, and which was unbearably repetitive to listen to. —They're distracting Shmebulock! Okay, buddy, continue...

—Shmebulock, Shmebulock, Shmebulock, Shmebulock...

I tripped again and fell on my face during one of my push-ups when Shmebulock reached Shmebulock 9. I was never good at sports, and I never will be.

—What are you looking for in these mountains? — A tall, robust, and enormous abominable snowman stood in front of us, hiding in the shadows. We had gone to the local mountains to hike. The temperature dropped as we climbed higher. In the middle of the trail, we encountered this mystical creature hiding their fearsome face in the shadows. I've always dreamed of meeting this creature ever since I saw them in comics and on paranormal forums.

I can't believe it! They're real! I want to take pictures, but at the same time, I want to run for my life.

—W-well…we…— I began to stutter out of nerves. Luckily, Bill interrupted me, placing a hand on my chest and moving forward to speak to the gigantic creature.

—We were just doing cool kid stuff, you know what I mean, big guy~. —  My companion nudged the menacing snowman's arm, smiling flirtatiously. If Bill were going to die, it wouldn't just be because of the beast in front of us. But with my own hands

—In that case... let me come with you! — His voice went from deep and chilling to cheerful and squeaky. When he emerged from the shadows of the mountain, I got a better look at him. He was wearing camper clothes, a strange tattoo on his shaved shoulder, and a backwards cap. —Can I come with you? Please! It'll be super, mega radical! — The giant begged.

—Of course, bro! How about we start with a quiet game of tag around the mountain? You have to tag the brown-haired guy to get away...

His smile was a bad sign, adding that I tired very quickly when running, and that the snowman looked very muscular despite being friendly. I knew this was going to be the end of me.

—Pinetree, you can't escape~

No! Yes, I can!

You know what? I quit! If I stay here any longer, I'll die. It doesn't matter if this stupid demonic contract won't let me leave him; I refuse to keep trying to maintain this madness.

I tried to escape from the creepy monster Bill had transformed into. A triangular version of himself, but red, his pupil yellow with a black iris, he had three rows of sharp teeth dividing him into three parts, a long, slimy black tongue on the uppermost rows, and six pairs of arms. His childish and playful personality still echoed in his voice. Even so, I ran with all my might to escape, trying to come up with a plan in my head.

Yes, I'll take a bus to the Canadian border, it's not that far. I'll print out fake IDs and start a nice life as a lumberjack. Who knows? Maybe I'll marry a pretty freckled girl, have beautiful children, and spend my days as a retiree in a nursing home playing chess.

Yeah...that doesn't sound so ba-

I felt a tug on my wrist. I looked at it, and it was handcuffed to a rather long, fluorescent blue chain. I tried to pull to get out, but the chain was stronger, forcing me back.

I pulled and pulled to get out of this forest and reach the welcome sight of the town. Suddenly, more chains appeared around my neck, my other wrist, and both ankles, accompanied by a painful electric shock.

—Oh, Pinetree~! I warned you ~

Bill returned to his normal form in the blink of an eye. He leaned all his weight on his cane, looking at me with pity as I suffered from the chains and the pain they caused.

—W-what... is... is…— I trembled from the pain, stuttering, too disoriented.

—The contract, Pinetree — he replied, nonchalant,  as if it were the most obvious thing in the world. —If either of us tries to escape from the other, this will happen to them. — Bill crouched down in front of me to be at my eye level and showed me the same chain I had on his wrist. He moved it away just a little to show that his chain was still attached to mine. The chains on both of us faded, but the pain and the feeling remained.

Bill watched as I got up from the floor, a little sore. He put his arm around my shoulders and gave me a rather peculiar smile, a warm, friendly smile. —Hey, let's take a break— He nudged me playfully. —What do you say? Up for a regular stew? 

I smiled back at him, which was quite contagious and lifted my spirits a bit, leaving the pain behind.

—Without rats?

—100% without rats

Without further ado, we headed back to camp, a question still swirling in my head. I turned around to see the welcome sign again... was this going to be my life now?

—I have to give you something.

We had arrived at the camp after going to the cemetery. I know it's wrong to disturb the dead ones in their eternal rest, but Bill said it was necessary to lose our fear of them. He threw a dark blue cloth in my face. I took it off and examined it more closely. It was a navy blue cape with a hood.

—Ummm... thanks?

—Don't thank me yet, I'm good with clothes. Now get dressed, we'll go to the paranormal black market.

—Woah woah woah, wait! There's a paranormal black market?! How did I never know about that before?!

—Duh, why do you think it's a black market, silly?

The paranormal black market was quite varied. It was impressive to see a bunch of creatures, witches, and monsters selling wares, all kinds of mystical artifacts and trinkets, inside large or not-so-large tents or eye-catching stalls. Each one with the style of each merchant.

—Woah woah woah, this is...woah—I couldn't help but sigh with everything I saw. Maybe for Bill it was the most normal thing in the world, but for me it was an extraordinarily new experience.

My companion let out an amused laugh. —Calm down, Pinetree, just to say they don't sell leashes for humans yet. Besides, you'd better get used to it if we ever get kicked out of the supermarket because of me and...great, you're not listening…

I was touching with my fingers a couple of crystals from one of the market stalls. Bill only laughed at me, but not mockingly, but rather out of affection for my curiosity.

—Good afternoon, young demon. You look like someone from the upper class, sir. Would you like to buy our new products?—The seller of the crystal stand approached. A round creature wearing a jacket and hat, their face only covered by a giant mouth, and they had the same crystals stuck on their back. They unbuttoned his brown jacket, revealing all the crystals hanging inside.

—No thanks, I don't think your gadgets will live up to my expectations — he smiled proudly as he leaned his weight on his cane. Bill reminded me a lot of Grunkle Stan, but he has his charisma.

We continued walking through the market. The beasts and creatures grew more robust and a little scary. Some weren't even noted in the journal. —Bill, one question. Why do I have to wear this cape? — I asked. Encouraging me to hug his arm so I wouldn't lose him in the avalanche of clustered anomalies. 

—Oh well, people here can smell the human scent from miles away. That hood covers the smell with a heavy layer of lavender.

—Yeah, I see why…— I shuddered when I collided with an orange-colored beast with sharp scales, crooked teeth protruding from its mouth, and bangs that covered its eyes and nose. The beast sniffed at me, revealing its nose outside its bangs. My companion's hand grabbed mine in a firm grip, pulling me away from the scaly creature. I covered my entire face tightly with the hood, my heart pounding in fear.

—Don’t worry, Pinetree. You're being escorted by a powerful, high-class demon. Nothing bad will happen to you.

He gently squeezed my hand again, and I dared to confidently link my fingers with his, calming my fearful heart. We both continue walking through the market together, feeling a little more confident in each other and our surroundings. Sometimes I wish I were more carefree like Bill. But my mind keeps me from overthinking for even five damn seconds.

—Poor wretch. See, Pinetree, this is what I was telling you about.

A creature larger than a mountain was lying lifeless on the ground, occupying several meters of the forest. Its size was so vast that it would take us an hour to reach its face. Their body was made of tree wood, and the immense feet in front of us had moss and small branches growing on their sides. It was some kind of tree man or a tree giant. I had read about it in the journal and even tripped over one of its footprints once, but I had never seen one so close, even dead.

—What happened to them?—I asked incredulously. Inside, I didn't want to know how it happened. But my curiosity was stronger.

—Lumberjack season—my companion spat out bitterly.—The lumberjacks got tired of them bothering them, and they all agreed to hunt all of them down for the duration of lumberjack season. Luckily, it was only one.

—But...maybe they did it for a good reason, right?

—Pffft, oh please! The giants here are very peaceful. They can't even eat a fly! Believe me, I tried to convince them to rebel, but they just threw me a deer.—Bill approached the large foot and tapped the sole of its right foot with his fist. — They only react if you disturb them. Like bees.

I wasn't sure,  I felt very distressed. I've seen complaints about supernatural forces throwing cars and destroying homes. But...was this necessary? Wasn't communication easier than...this?

I felt a hand pull me from my body, turning me into a spirit and letting Bill control my body and be Bipper. I was still fascinated by how Bill could possess me and pull me out of my body whenever he wanted, and with such ease. —Come on, Pinetree! The last one to reach his face will smell like rotten eggs for a week! And I'm not joking! 

As he ran and I floated behind him, he kept talking, wondering if the decomposing giant's face was disgusting. I kept worrying about that hunted giant. If that happens to other abnormal creatures, I can't imagine what they would do to us.

It terrifies me just to think that maybe the same thing would happen to me.

I'm going to ask you a question. If you were a responsible adult (either a parent, Tutor, or close relative of a 12-year-old preteen), tell me, would you give them a firearm? If you answered yes, I've not only lost faith in humanity, but also in the whole universe!

Bill, from behind, corrected my posture and aim while I held the infamous firearm, a revolver, in my sweaty hands. Bill kept hitting me with his cane every time I slouched, and my legs were shaking so much that they felt like jelly. On the bright side, what kid hasn't dreamed of owning a firearm and shooting zombies like in a video game?

—Okay, Pinetree, remember: firm stance, steady aim, pull the trigger, and BOOM! Got it?

—What I didn't understand was where you got a revolver? 

—It came with the first-aid kit... NOW SHOOT!

I panicked a lot that I skipped the first two steps, and all I did was aim and pull the trigger. The sound coming from the gun was similar to an explosion. The forest was so quiet that a single shot could equal the sound of a bomb. Birds flew out of their nests, and squirrels quickly climbed back to their holes high in the trees.

—Wow, Pinetree! Out of the 11 times we've done this, you finally shot something good! And I think it was our dinner — Bill floated toward the Bushes where the bullet was fired.  Did I… shoot something?! I hope it wasn't a person.

Thank goodness it wasn't a person. But the poor unfortunate one was a doe with small white spots on her hip. Bill smiled broadly. He asked me to borrow my body, and once inside it, he pulled a  Razor from my pants and began gutting the poor creature right in front of my eyes.

—Don’t worry, Pinetree —  he had noticed my disturbed expression upon seeing the poor female's body cut open, revealing all her flesh soaked in blood. —After all, they're part of the food chain. They're in this world to feed these sacks of meat.

Please don't be Bambi's mom, please don't be Bambi's mom, please don't be Bambi's mom...

—Come on, Pinetree! Try a little harder!

—Easy for you to say! You don't have to live with these noodle arms...

Bill was trying to teach me how to fight, completely forgetting that I can't even catch a ball. Every time I tried to hit him, he'd just end up dodging me effortlessly. I ended up on the floor miserably. 

The doctors said that no matter how many nutrients or pills I eat, it'll be impossible to strengthen these arms, even though they say they'll develop over time when I'm an adult. Even if Bill gave me all the most disgusting soups containing "protein" or practiced and fell more, it would be impossible to strengthen them and make me stronger.

—I feel like you're missing something... but what?— he hummed thoughtfully, putting one hand on his chin as I got up from the floor and brushed the dirt off my knees.

—Mmm, I don't know…how about…Let me go?" —I suggested sarcastically, although there was some truth to my words.

—Motivation! —I snorted in disappointment. Bill walked over to where my backpack was. —Sometimes, meatbags activate a secret impulse that awakens their strength in high-risk or dangerous situations. And not only them, but also demons and abnormal creatures possess it.

I sighed, leaning my back against a tree. —I don't understand how you have so much hope for me. In case you forgot, you separated me from my family and everyone I love. I don't think anything else worries me other than... DON'T TOUCH THAT!

Bill had grabbed journal number 3 with his fingertips. He seemed quite calm and unconcerned. I don't want to imagine what he would have done if I hadn't called his attention.

—Oh! This? —he pointed out in an innocent voice but with a wickedly big smile—Well, I rescued it minutes before the explosion, since you'd get hysterical if something happened to it. I was planning on using it as a last resort if you were to escape. You always have to have a plan B... B of Bill!

I couldn't believe what I was hearing. He really kept the journal all this time and didn't tell me. And he only kept it to... BLACKMAIL ME?! I thought we were a team... ugh! Dipper! You idiot! It's Bill Cipher! It was obvious!

—Congratulations, Bill! Your blackmail worked! Now give me the journal 

Bill shook his triangular head and looked at me with a flirtatious smile—oh~ you better go get it,  Pinetree~—with a snap of his fingers, a tiny blue flame appeared enveloping his index finger, and he slowly brought it closer to the journal.

—BILL! GIVE IT BACK NOW! — I glared at him. Bill nearly flinched at my demanding frown. I was about to murder him.

—Oops! — The fire finally burned the edges of the journal. Something inside me activated, a panic mode, a savage mode filled with suppressed anger coming to the surface. Like the rugby players at my school, I tackled him, causing the book to fly from his hands and saving it from burning. I didn't care that I was on top of him like an animal about to rip his head off. I grabbed his wrist where the flame was burning and brought it close to his face to burn him. 

—YOU LIKE THIS, AS— I froze, just as a laugh filled with madness threatened to burst from my throat.

Bill's face was so shocked, I couldn't tell if he was scared or impressed. I let go of his wrists and stood up to get on top of him. I look at my trembling hands. What am I doing? This place is driving me insane. 

I need to get out of here.

I moved as far away from Bill as possible, who was still on the ground. —Pinetree! Wait! That was amazing! I told you you have potential! You just need...

—Not now, Bill…— I stammered, hugging myself. I wanted to get away from it all as I walked.

—But Pinetree...

—NOT NOW, BILL!— I yelled, on the verge of tears. Bill stopped insisting. For the first time, he went from having the most joking and cheerful personality to just hanging his head in dejection and clumsily playing with his fingers.

—Sorry, Sta-I mean Dipper — It was so weird seeing Bill behaving so... docile? He would have kept laughing or jokingly begged my forgiveness (maybe even burned the diary again for fun). But now he just had his head down, with no trace of his mischievous smile, as if his parents had scolded him.

I tried to say something, anything, but the words wouldn't come out of my lips. The only impulse was to run, run, run, and run. To get away from Bill's strange behavior, to get away from the family who was convincing me I was becoming a monster, to get away from myself, who was becoming more and more unrecognizable.

I ran until I came face to face with the welcome and exit sign of the town. I couldn't get out; it was clear. If I did, or tried, the chains would wrap around my entire body, dragging me to Bill's feet, who was in the same situation as I (and I'm surprised the chains didn't drag him to me, given how far away I was from him). I knelt, exhausted, beginning to sob and feel tears running down my cheeks.

I hugged the Sign's leg, hoping it would give me stability and keep me from turning into the monster I was destined to become if I remained tied to this contract that neither of us wanted to be entangled in.

It had been two grueling weeks of pure exercise and near-death events. Getting to know and understand paranormal creatures, developing a sixth sense when we get into trouble, fighting unicorns in a dance battle, and don't forget my numerous unsuccessful attempts to escape.

After the diary incident, I resolved to truly escape before this forest turned me into a maniac. But nothing worked, not even floating up to the clouds or trying to get out of the deal with black magic. It always ended in the same place, with those stupid chains holding me in pain and making me return to Bill.

Bill stopped finding my attempts to escape funny or cute and started feeling sorry for me. He was also starting to notice my mood swings from angry and complaining to depressed and unwilling to do anything else. My mind reminded me of my fear of becoming the true monster my family claimed I was. That's why he distracts me with invented exercises like the one now, where we examine corpses in the town cemetery and see if their clothes are in good enough condition for us to keep.

—Bill, this is illegal —I said bitterly. I touch a jock's corpse with a branch from a distance without having to get into the holes where they buried them. Not like Bill, who kept digging deeper, disturbing their rest.

—When there are no cops around, everything is legal!—Bill possessed my body at this moment. He was taking off the poor unfortunate man's red jock’s jacket. —Look! It's the "D" for Dipper!

—The corpse's name is Dennis.

He laughed. —Pfft. You're imagining it! 

—IT SAYS SO ON THE FUCKING TOMBSTONE, BILL!— I pointed at the tombstone with the branch. It was engraved with the typical "Rest in peace, Dennis Pitterson Jr, dearly son, adorable boyfriend, and a great rugby player for Gravity Falls."

—Well, at least we can brag that you are a great rugby player.

I groaned in frustration, lying back on the soft grass of the cemetery, putting my translucent arms behind my head. It was a generic but quite beautiful summer day: clear skies, white clouds, and a gentle, refreshing breeze that messed up my hair. But my mood was the complete opposite of this beautiful weather. I didn't want to admit it to Bill; the last time I said it, it almost didn't end well. But the truth is, I was exhausted. I didn't want to continue with this absurd deal and be tied to these invisible chains. I want to go home and at least get back to my life as an introvert who spends his free time doing nerdy things!

—I wish I could turn back time — I muttered as I closed my eyes, trying to let this peace enter my chest as well.

When I opened my eyes, the sky was no longer blue. Everything around me turned shades of gray, and all the insects and bugs stopped moving. Had Bill put us in the mindscape again? It was a common occurrence when we talked about private matters or played infinite chess. When I turned around, I realized Bill was just as confused as I was. His eyes were wide in shock, while the skin he controlled turned paler than usual. I didn't know if it was because he was in my cowardly body, but his hands were shaking, and his arms were covered in goosebumps.

—Bill?... What's going on? — I asked.

—T-they... they found me. I don't know how, but… they found me…—he replied. His voice was fragile, staring up at the sky in shock.

—Who?!

A white flash clouded my vision, nearly blinding me. When my vision recovered, I could see a giant baby in the sky with a bunch of burly soldiers in strange black clothing and underwear on the outside, guarding the baby on both sides.

—The Time Baby…

When I first met the time traveler (Blond? Bernard? Bob?... I'm not good with names), he had mentioned a baby who controls time and space. I assumed he was joking. But now, I'm very disappointed to know that all human lives and the length of our lives here or in the universe depend on a bottle-sucking baby who wasn't even one year old!

They took Bill and me (because they assume I'm some kind of human servant. Great! What I was missing! ), They put handcuffs on us that were more painful than the magic ones in Bill's contract., and teleported us to a futuristic time center, like those cheap sci-fi movies.

They weren't very kind to us. If the tight handcuffs were the worst, the cages were even worse.I tried to punch a guard in the crotch, but his underwear were too tough and  kept playing the voice of a friendly man from a commercial over and over again (“kick blocked. Thanks for buying Digicode, the smart underwear…”)

—Aww, look how adorable he is! Trying to punch us with those noodle legs — one of the guards mocked. He threw us both into a not-so-spacious cell with two thin bunks that looked like shelves and a small toilet next to a sink.

—And he'll be even cuter trying to break the cage barriers — his partner followed the mocking. As they walked around laughing, the cell bars lit up with a bright red laser.

—ADORABLE!? — I fumed, approaching the bars. —HO HO HO! I'LL LOOK EVEN CUTTER WHEN I BREAK THEIR ASS—When I put my hands on the laser bars for just two seconds, my hands were burning like I'd touched lava. I jumped in panic, falling to my knees on the floor, moaning in pain.

—It's useless, Pinetree— my partner finally spoke. He hadn't opened his mouth the entire time. —I've been here five times, this prison is very difficult to escape. It takes an average human centuries to get out of one of those.

—But you're not an average human. YOU'RE FUCKING BILL CIPHER! YOU-

—I don't have powers— he interrupts monotonously. —They deactivated it when you entered this cell and put you in these handcuffs. Look, I've been able to get out of here five times with my friends. But every time someone manages to escape from these cells, the guards reinforce security.

To do this, he grabbed a small, hairless rat with one eye and a clock in his stomach that was eating in a corner by the tip of its tail. Once he had it in his hand, he stroked the animal gently with his index finger and let it pass through a tiny hole in the wall that was attached to the floor. After a few minutes, the hole lit up red inside, and the skeleton of the rat itself emerged.

—So... now what? — I asked, looking disturbed at the rat skeleton between my feet.

—Wait.

—Wait!? That's your genius plan!?

— Yep — The triangle sat on the floor, pressing its back to the wall. He patted the floor as a signal for me to come. I sat next to him, anxiously hugging my knees. — You see, here you don't age, die, or born. It's as if time stops inside the cell, and outside, time moves faster. Once, the Hechmaniacs and I were here for 200 years, it only seemed like 2 weeks.

My eyes widened in panic. — 200 YEARS!? No no no no no... this can't happen... I... you... I promised! That... my sister, she... will be... or she's alone and... — Here it goes again, the same old story. My breathing was labored, and hyperventilation was keeping me from speaking. I clutched my hair to keep from screaming or crying. My heart pounded out of my chest, and little by little, my vision began to blur.

Anxiety invaded my body again

I hate it when this happens. Why the fuck is this happening to me and not to other people?! I'm a good person! I did everything right! I did everything Bill told me to do, I did everything my grunkle wanted me to do, I did everything my sister wanted me to do, I DID EVERYTHING MY PARENTS WANT ME TO DO, EVERYTHING THAT FUCKING THEARAPIST WANT ME TO DO. And yet, all the bad things happen to me. Now I'll be trapped in this cell, and when they barely let me out, my sister will be dead, my parents will be dead, everyone will be dead! The machines may rule the world, but I'll be left alone with my guilt, remorse, and loneliness just because of this damn stupidity I got myself into.

My breathing became more uncontrolled, my chest rose and fell too quickly, and my head felt heavy. Living in a whirlwind where all my thoughts spoke my truths, and going back to memories I didn't even want to relive. The teasing, my parents, Mabel... that day... that damn day...

GIVE ME SOMETHING TO SHUT MY HEAD!!!

—MASON!

Hearing my real name come out of Bill's lips was like bringing my feet back to earth. I felt the tears continue to fall my cheeks, and the sound of my heart pounding as he held me tightly, wrinkling my shirt. Bill's triangular face was very close to mine as he placed his hands on my shoulders in a firm, secure grip. His look showed that he was really worried about me. —Mason! You need to calm down! oh axolotl! I... I...

Bill was a little lost; the few times he tried to comfort me ended horribly. He took a deep breath, regulating his state a little faster than I did. This time he spoke to me a little more calmly. —We'll get through this, I promise. Besides, the Time Baby doesn't want to wait even a millisecond to see me die, believe me. When those gates open, we'll run like never before and return to the time we were in. I promise we'll end this stupid bond as soon as possible so you can see your twin again.

—Do you... Think we'll make it? — I asked uncertainly. There was a small glimmer of hope in my eyes, but I wasn't entirely sure yet. And it didn't help that my head was still repeating the 10 things that could go wrong.

—You've improved a lot, Pinetree. Believe me, you're more than ready— He ruffled my messy brown hair affectionately. A small laugh escaped my lips as I wipe away the remaining tears with my arm. —Besides... if you want… I'll give you credit for participating in the  Weirdmageddon.

I started laughing at his joke. —I don't know what's worse: helping you cause an apocalypse that would harm thousands of people for my freedom, or having you as an enemy, knowing you make me laugh even in the worst of times — I unconsciously rested my head on his shoulder. Bill had to shift a little to avoid poking me with his prongs.

—Are you feeling better, Constellation? —  I thought about moving my head off his shoulder because I thought he'd think it was weird. But seeing him put his arm around my shoulders in an act of comfort,  we both mentally agreed that we were too comfortable and calm to separate. Even though we found ourselves in the most uncomfortable cell in the future, Bill's acts of genuine concern struck me as odd. I could no longer distinguish between a lie and reality, but it was kind of... sweet? He tried to keep me calm during my anxiety attack.

I placed my hand over my heart; it was slowly calming down and regulating its rhythm. I wasn't crying anymore, and I wasn't hyperventilating when I spoke. —I guess so. I feel much better. Uh... Thanks, Bill — I thanked him uncertainly at the end. A yawn escaped my lips as I began to close my eyes. Sinking deeper into his shoulder, —...And you're right, we'll get through this...

The red neon lights on the bars went out, and the cell abruptly opened, revealing the two time guards waiting for us with serious expressions. —Okay, you two morons, wake up! The time baby wants to talk to you — the guard on the right hurriedly warned.

Bill nudged me with a smile. —See? I told you that brat was desperate to kill me— he whispered, as I tried to hold back my laughter by covering my lips with both hands. Bill got up from the floor and dusted off his dress pants. He turned to me to offer his hand and wink. —Shall we go, my roommate?

With two guards guarding us. They led us through a long corridor until we reached the baby who would end our lives. We passed through several corridors with cells exactly like the one we were in, but with different people inside. From intimidating, muscular criminals to anomalies and abnormal creatures. They banged on the bars, begged for their freedom, complained, or mocked the guards. There was a robust, muscular cyclop surrounded by guards who was handcuffed. The cyclops pushed the guards while roaring for personal space. But he was damaged by a powerful weapon that electrocuted him until he was unconscious and thrown back into the cell.

I gulped and looked at my partner, who was still strangely quiet. One of the guards watching us left, saying he had to check if everything was for the time trial. Bill kicked me in the leg, which made me howl in pain inside. I gave him an annoyed look. What does he want?!

Bill opened his strange mouth and stuck out his long, blue tongue, which was over six feet long. On the tip of his tongue, he had the keys to the handcuffs dangling. I didn't know whether to be happy about this or throw up in disgust at the saliva on his tongue. I swallowed my urge to throw up, turned around so Bill could unlock my handcuffs with the key. When he got it, I discreetly took the saliva-covered keys from him and did the same, unlocking his handcuffs.

–Hey! What the?! —  Just as the guard reacted, Bill licked him in the face, knocking him unconscious on the ground with a lot of saliva on his face.

He stuck his long tongue into his mouth. —Let's run! —He grabbed my hand, and we started running, just like I did with that abominable snowman.

An alarm went off, and as we ran hallway after hallway, more guards gathered to catch us. Every door and room we opened didn't lead us to the exit, but rather led us further away. Sooner or later, they'd corner us. Where can we find a way out of here?

—Pinetree, look! — A revolving door was right at the end of the hallway. The clear summer sunset of Gravity Falls could be seen.

—Ready? — my partner asked, squeezing my hand. I saw a crowd of guards running toward us, their guns ready to shoot us.

— Uh... not really.

— Me too. 

We ran with all our might until we reached the end of the hallway. We blindly pushed the revolving door and stepped inside. A bright white light blurred our vision.

Had we made it?

Had we escaped?

Did it take us so long that it's now 2047?

Had I grown a beard?

Well, none of those questions were true. The blinding light cleared, and everything slowly became clear, only to see the time baby with his arms crossed, in his floating royal infantry chair with two guards at his side in the middle of what appeared to be a courtroom, but with no witnesses, lawyers, or prosecutors. Just them and the two of us.

— Escaping, huh, Cipher? I thought you loved parties? I didn't think you wanted to leave right away—even though he was a giant baby, about 8 or 12 months old. He had a deep, gravelly voice that was very abnormal for someone of his age.

—Don't take this the wrong way, baby, but your parties aren't fun at all. I think that's why you don't get invited to parties, you big crybaby.

—SILENCE! —His powerful voice echoed in the room, making it shake like an earthquake. The baby's face turned bright red from the tantrum. —DON'T YOU KNOW YOU'RE IN COURT, CIPHER!?

—Uuuuuhhh, how scary!—he mocked, pretending to be scared to feed the baby's tantrum.

The baby gave up answering him and tried again to maintain his serious and powerful demeanor. —How do you plead, Bill Cipher? —said one of the guards to the left of their leader, reading from a hologram he projected with his lens —having deceived several people and caused chaos in the timeline and universe...

—Mmm...the only thing I plead guilty to is being irresistible and powerful—he declared, striking a diva pose and looking flirtatiously at his audience. —Oh, come on! Are you going to sentence me so quickly? What if I participate in that...what's his name? Gob...bublam oh! I know!...gumblar!

—IT'S GLOBNAR, SON OF THE REBEL MOTHER!—corrected the annoyed infant, making the room shake again. —AND YOU DON'T DESERVE THAT KIND OF TRIAL! SHOULD I REMIND YOU OF YOUR CRIMES?!

I prayed inside that he wouldn't. I'm sick of Bill constantly bragging to me about the atrocious things he did. I don't want to know them by heart, and our sentence worsens.

—Yes, yes, yes, I know. There's even a Google Doc about it. But there's something I don't understand. Why do they blame me for changing the timeline and creating an alternate universe? I don't have enough power to do that. Only my superiors and the great and powerful "you know who" can do that.

—DON’T YOU GET IT?! By making a deal with Mason Pines (better known as Dipper Pines), you changed the timeline and created an alternate universe! But the strangest thing is that you weren't the only one…— The time baby massaged his psyche to begin projecting images of apocalyptic-looking, abandoned places from his hourglass mark. Some had fantastical paintings, and others were in complete ruins due to various natural or abnormal causes—in various dimensions, in different places, at different times. The course of other future events after their central event was changed. The timeline branched, and now these branches are the canonical ones of the events that the Council had predicted and written during the beginning of reality itself. We don't know what anomaly caused all this... but I'm sure you had something to do with it all, you shameless chaos fanatic! — He pointed at him with his chubby finger at my companion.

—Interesting theory to put all the blame on me and kill me, baby. But unfortunately, instead of causing this harmonious and perfect chaos, I was in the same damn town as always this whole time without realizing a thing.

—MASON NEVER HAD TO ACCEPT YOUR FILTHY DEAL! He and his family are destined to kill you and end your irritating existence once and for all! — He massaged his psyche again, this time projecting images of my supposed future. Something I'd never experienced, but could have.

There I was, along with the townspeople. Facing a gigantic Bill with the help of some kind of Transformer mystery shack with arms and legs. Another image showed Bill, in his triangular form, dying in the flames of the blue fire and ceasing to exist in a single blow (literally a single punch to his face). And finally, there were my sister and I,  celebrating our 13th birthday and taking the bus back to California, happy and... together.

The time baby was right. My destiny was written: My family and I had to kill Bill Cipher.

— ehh…I still think you made it up as an excuse to kill me.

—Even if you had nothing to do with it, YOU WILL HAVE TO PAY FOR YOUR PREVIOUS CRIMES, CIPHER! —  A giant stone column emerged from beneath Bill's feet. Forcing him to kneel.  his arms and legs were automatically bound by chains at both wrists and ankles. His strange mouth had been covered by a chain muzzle. He pulled several times to get out, but the chains held him in place, leaving him unable to escape or speak.

—I'm not going to give him any more chances, much less advice — The infant gave him a look of disgust when Bill tried to aggressively attack him like a wild animal. —Guards, wipe him off the face of the universe.

—My lord, I fear that it may take even years. It's very difficult to eliminate such an omnipotent demon — one of the guards whispered to him.

—Let it take as long as it takes!  Besides, the longer it takes, the more painful it will be. And the more painful, the more entertaining it will be to watch.

Bill gave me a pleading look. I never imagined I could be in this kind of vulnerable situation. Suddenly, his chains took on a blue glow and began electrocuting him. I couldn't hear his screams through the muzzle, and the electroshock lasted too long.

The lightning stopped, and the chains returned to their dull violet color. Yellow pieces fell from his face like porcelain, revealing the television static that was previously covered by his yellow skin. Those chains were slowly and painfully destroying Bill. And not only was I impressed that it worked, but the great infant himself was as well. I don't know why, but when they finished torturing him, I started getting severe migraines. My body felt like I had been electrocuted, not the demon. Is this the bond Bill was talking about? Whatever pain I felt... he felt it, and vice versa. And if he dies...

I die.

 — AS FOR YOU! — The infant's deep, gravelly voice startled me. I covered myself with the handcuffs like a coward and expected the worst. —You can go…

—What? — My chains fell off, and my sweaty hands were free. —But-

—Listen to me, kid. You're one of the many victims Bill has tricked. And you don't want to know how they ended up…— He massaged his psyche again, this time attracting a glowing yellow sphere with the same symbol on his forehead.

—With this sphere, you can make any wish you want. You can return everything to normal and wish this had never happened, so your timeline will be completely fixed.

—So... you won't do anything to me?

The baby shook his head. —No, you're too important to put an end to that insufferable Isocel's games, Mason. Believe me, I would never harm any member of the Pines family after what they did to time and the universe. Besides, if I were to eliminate you, you wouldn't exist in any time or space. And we don't want that...

—But...that's what will happen to Bill...

—THAT'S VERY DIFFERENT! Ugh, I just hope they wipe that Euclidean error off the face of the universe—she cast Bill a look of contempt again—tell me, kid, don't you want everything to go back to normal? Don't you want to be with your family again?

The sphere moved closer to me until it was almost touching my hands. Its bright, shining light invited me to contemplate it. The time baby was right, I can reverse all of this and wish it had never happened! Everything will be back to how it was before; all the effort I made to break out of this loop will be over. Finally, I...I...

Just as I was about to touch it and make my obvious wish. My body prevented me from touching the sphere, no matter how close it was to me. There was a feeling that prevented me from doing so. I looked back at Bill. I'd never seen him so vulnerable. Surrendered and waiting for the bitter end. The way he looked at me suggested something like this would happen, that I wouldn't help him with this irresistible offer in front of my face.

Suddenly, Bill's words from the day of the theater rang loudly in my mind.

"Don't you want to finally be heard and valued?"

This is so confusing. Why am I even thinking about such nonsense? He's using me, and he's not afraid to admit it. He got me into this mess and alienated me from those I love...he...he...

He was the only one who listened to me.

Despite everything, He understood me and tried to. Although he wasn't good at comforting me, he tried. He gave me his attention by making jokes or giving me more physical contact than necessary. We shared our strange tastes. He protected me from the other anomalies and made being trapped next to him more fun and comfortable. Perhaps... did I already consider him my friend?

I looked back at the sphere and timidly looked at the unconscious demon. The baby was impatient, it showed in his whimsical expression. He wanted an answer, and I had to give it to him. I took a deep breath to calm my anxiety and hugged the time sphere with all my strength. The sphere's brilliant glow covered the entire room, making everyone unable to see anything. In a few seconds, the light vanished.

Bill's chains and muzzle had disintegrated like dust. His wounds were clean from his rejuvenated and intact face, as if he had never been hit in his life. The demon was completely confused, but that didn't stop him from floating with joy at being free, as his signature amused laugh echoed throughout the room.

—WHAT DID YOU DO?! DID YOU JUST-

—Yes! I did! —I shouted boldly in his chubby face.

—YOU COULD HAVE GONE BACK TO YOUR FAMILY, IDIOT!

—Yes, I could have... but I'm not going to let you hurt my friend in exchange for cheap emotional blackmail.

—Awww, pinetree! —I stiffened. Did I even say that out loud?! —You're such a sweetheart!

My face was burning, and unfortunately, not from fever. —Enough with the cheesy nonsense, Bill!!! I gave you back your powers... NOW DESTROY HIM!

—Ho ho ho, now you speak my language, pinetree! —I opened my arms to let Bill possess my body. When the guards saw Bill's feline eyes in mine, they stood alert with loaded guns pointed at me.

The baby didn't get to give any orders. We both controlled my body as Bipper. We joined both hands upwards, creating a large ball of blue fire that spread throughout the room. The ball stopped growing when it was too big for the powerful infant.

—Eat your baby food! BABY! — Our voices mingled as we exclaimed. The mixture of both our voices laughed maniacally when the ball couldn't hold on any longer.

—Oh, how I hate Ciphers — were his last words.

The fireball exploded, spreading a blinding white glow throughout the room. The white light cleared from my eyelids as I heard a thud. I rubbed my eyes and was surprised to see no trace of the time baby and his accompanying guards. Only its bottle, which contained a substance that could be seen across the galaxy, remained as the last trace.

I had stopped sharing a body with Bill. I looked at him inside my body, completely shocked to see the baby bottle lying on the ground. —Bill?! Oh my! Are you okay?

—STOP! We've got you surrounded! — Several guards came out and surrounded us in a circle. There were too many of them, and they were pointing their futuristic weapons at us.

—Dipper, give me your hand! —  he ordered desperately. With our hands together, Bill pulled a tape measure from my pants pockets, but it wasn't just any tape measure; it was the device they use for travel through time. About to shoot at us, Bill pulled the tape measure, and in the blink of an eye, we were on the outskirts of Gravity Falls.

The jump had left me with a severe headache that eased after a few minutes. I glanced at my hands; I was back in my body. The tape measure was lying on the ground, with no signs of being useful for another occasion. Just in case, I picked up the device and put it in my pants pocket. Everything looked like Gravity Falls, but... what time exactly are we in?

Bill was standing to the side, trying to stand up. —Bill?

—Pinetree?

—Oh my god! Bill! — I threw myself at him to hug him. –You did it! You did it! We escaped!

He chuckles,  wrapping his arms around my waist to hug me. —I think it was more of a team effort, but since you're giving me all the credit, well…— I laughed, breaking away from the hug and playfully punching him on the shoulder. I interlaced my fingers through his, and we began to spin around and around in euphoria.

—You're amazing! We're amazing! — Not even the universe could stop me from laughing as we spun around and celebrated that we were still standing.

—Yeah, yeah, I know!  You don't have to flatter me so much.

—We're not going to jail! — I howled euphorically.

—WE'RE NOT GOING TO JAIL! YIPPIEEE!

I laughed as we continued spinning. —You killed the time baby!

—Yeah, I-OH HOLY AXOLOTL, I KILLED THE TIME BABY!

The joy and laughter stopped. Slowly, I started to let go of his hands, confused. I was always the one who panicked over these kinds of things. But... Bill? Didn't he give a damn what that baby did?

A thought came to my mind. —Bill? Didn't you... Didn't you know you could kill him?

—No!" "Well, yeah!...ugh! I don't know! — he groaned in frustration. —That Brat is part of a group of entities more powerful than me! They control the fucking universe and space and stuff. They're hard to kill. The Time Brat might regenerate in about 1,000 years, but if they find out it was me...he...they..."

I don't know if possessing my body so much was affecting him, but he was already starting to hyperventilate and get more nervous. The glow in his head was starting to flicker uncontrollably, wanting to shine brighter. I needed to do something before the situation got worse.

I placed my hands on both of his shoulders, like he'd done to calm me down in the cell. —Bill, it's okay, relax. We can take on those big guys! We'll kick their asses like we did with the baby!

Bill groaned, uncertain about my response. —You don't understand, Dipper!" They are-

—big, strong, powerful, they control this universe! Yes, maybe, but you're fucking Bill Cipher! The demon of dreams and the king of an entire dimension of nightmares. And no one will be able to defeat you so easily. Believe me, they'll get tired of hitting you because of how much you get back up.

The golden-eyed man sighed with a small smile. I don't know if it's because of the sunset light, but I swear I could see his yellow face slowly turning into a sort of orange blush. —You're flattering, Pinetree —  he vaguely flirted with a shy smile.

We both laughed. I put my arm around his shoulders, and he leaned down a little to be at my eye level. —Let's go back to camp, it's getting late. I just hope we didn't get the timing wrong. Or we'll have to fight people with lizard heads — I made a funny face trying to imitate a lizard, which made the demon laugh even more.

—Dipper? —  he called before we left the meadow where we were. I turned my attention to him as he nervously played with his hands. —I don't want to pry, but... Why did you decide to help me? You should have gone back to your family! You had the chance! Why did you decide to save me?

Bill was right, just like the time baby. I smiled sincerely at him —We're friends. And I  never leave a friend. Especially if they're in mortal danger.

—Friends?

—Yes...friends.

Tears began to flow from the demon's one eye, and I froze, not knowing what to say or how to react. The demon hugged me inconsolably as I began to cry dramatically. —PINETREE! YOU'RE SO SWEET! I LOVE YOU SO MUCH!

The hug was already suffocating me, my face going from red with pride to purple from lack of air. —Bill! Air! Please! —  I gasped.

—Oups, I forgot! — He immediately let me go, letting me catch my breath. —My first friend in ages, and I almost killed him, hehe...

I knew Bill's intentions perfectly well, and he knew mine. He was an untrustworthy and deceitful being who always played dirty. But despite that, he showed me he could be a caring and friendly person. Maybe...just maybe...I can give him a chance. I haven't had a friend in a long time either, besides my sister and the others. And I feel like Bill is a box of surprises, he can surprise me with anything and show me that maybe, just maybe (as stupid as it sounds), he can be a great friend to me.

Chapter Text

After escaping a scalpel Bill was holding (assuming I needed a "medical operation" and sleeping for eight hours), we decided to go to town for supplies and a newspaper that showed the date and time of our arrival. Luckily, the camp was still there. Only it had been destroyed by wild animals. The food scraps were moldy, the tent had urine all over it, and I saw a gnome taking a squirrel bath in the pot where we made soup. Remind me to wash that pot well.

I covered my face with my blue hood and headed toward town. Nothing had changed. Everything was the same as before. Except there weren't as many people today. Was it the weekend? Inside the supermarket, there weren't as many people either. Just an adult man with a bald head and a beard, and a woman with noticeable dark circles pushing a baby in a stroller. Even though there were only a few people, I had to be careful.

As we walked through the aisles, the demon kept pointing at products and slamming things into the cart. —Bill, I don't think this is a good idea — I said, taking jars of jam out of the cart and putting them back. —We don't have any money!  Where are we going to get the money to pay for all this?"

—Check your pocket — I heard him say, and I checked the pockets of my hood. Was that a wallet? It clearly had an owner, it had identification, and a membership to a men's nightclub.

—Bill, I'm not using that! — I scolded him in a low voice. —That's stealing!

—Sometimes we have to do a couple of bad things out of necessity. I'm starving in that worn-out body of yours! And I want to try those pancakes you think about so much when your stomach growls. — I felt a strong heat on my cheeks. Sometimes I forget that Bill can read minds and that he loves to enter mine.

After paying for everything, with a stomach ache and anxiety brewing over having paid with a stolen wallet, I politely asked the cashier if I could have the day's newspaper. Reluctantly, she handed it to me for two dollars. Once she gave it to me, I desperately began searching for today's date. My eyes widened in surprise when I found it.

—What happened, Pinetree?! Is it 2025?! We were invaded by living monuments?! — The demon floated near me so he could see the cause of my surprise inside the newspaper, while playfully hugging my shoulders from behind.

—What? No, luckily. But... we've been gone for almost a month and a half! Look!" I pointed at the date under a fashion column: Sunday, August 26, 2012.

—Oh, I thought we were gone longer— he commented with desilusional. Bill moved away from the newspaper and floated toward the exit. I ran quickly before losing sight of him. 

—Don't you see?! We were gone for a month! ONE MONTH! Maybe we missed a million things!

 —Relax, Pinetree.

—It's easy for you to say, you're immortal! On the other hand, my summer is ending. I'll have to go home, and I won't be able to get out of this unbearable deal! — The invisible chains appeared, and I began to tug hard at the one around my neck. The worst part about this Deal was the chains that tightened every time they appeared. As if they knew your thoughts of trying to escape.

—Stop tugging! You look like a dog! — he exclaimed, watching as I began to bite the chains, hoping they would break with a simple bite. —Besides, I don't think you want to go back home, do you, Pinetree?

I hide my face in the newspaper in shame. I didn't want to admit that he was kind of right. I'd grown so attached to this place; it was like my second home. Besides, I didn't have any fond memories back home, so to speak. Oh no, what if my parents find out I'm helping a demon cause the apocalypse?! I'd rather have a leash on me before I go back to California. I looked back at the newspaper. My eyes widened, and my few muscles tensed at the sight of the crime news page.

—Well, look on the bright side. You'll be able to stay here longer, with your favorite, trusty demon! What do you say, Pinetree? Pinetree?"

I didn't respond. I was so focused on the contents of that page that it gave me more chills than Bill's original form. This can't be true; it must be a damn joke.

There's only one way to find out.

I ran toward the police station, throwing the newspaper in the air. Bill called my attention several times, but I didn't listen to him. He had to follow me anyway. His chains didn't stop him from staying less than two meters away from me.

When I reached the police station, I stumbled on the sidewalk and fell to my knees. I got back up, ignoring the burning sensation they caused on my skin. I pressed my face against the glass, searching for a sign, and that's when I saw it. I saw it again. Big enough for everyone to see and pity the poor family searching for them.

no no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no no  nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no no  nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no nono no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no no

Several thoughts flooded my mind. I was panicking, feeling like my heart was beating out of my chest. Everything got worse when I walked away and saw a wall filled with copies of the same poster covering up some graffiti.

—Dipper Mason Filbrick Pines! You need to stop running like is the end of the world and leaving me standing there like an idiot! No, even better, STOP IGNORING ME! HOW DARE YOU?! —  he exclaimed in a monstrous voice until his only eye fell on the various posters on the wall.

—Hey? What's that? — His monstrous voice suddenly changed to his normal one. He tore one of the posters off the wall to get a closer look.

It would have been better if it were those posters where people are looking for a lost kitten. But the poster was only looking for one person, and they would pay the person who finds it quite well, and that someone was:

Me

<<<WANTED:  MISSING CHILD>>>

"HIS NAME IS MASON PHILBRICK PINES, BETTER KNOWN AS DIPPER PINES. HE IS 12 YEARS OLD (ALMOST 13)"

"HE HAS FLUFFY BROWN HAIR. HE IS WEARING A BLACK PRIEST SUIT AT THE MOMENT, BUT NORMALY WEARS A PINETREE BLUE CAP, BLUE VEST, ORANGE T-SHIRT, AND BLACK SHORTS"

"LAST SEEN: AT THE GRAVITY FALLS THEATER AND THE MYSTERY SHACK AT APPROXIMATELY 3:00 A.M."

"IF YOU SEE HIM, BRING IT TO THE MYSTERY SHACK OR CALL THIS NUMBER."

"NUMBER: +***************"

"ADDRESS:**********"

"IF HE TRIES TO ATTACK YOU OR BEHAVES STRANGELY, DON'T HESITATE TO DEFEND YOURSELF"

"REWARD: $14,500"

Bill had the same paralyzed look on his face as I did when he saw the posters. He could only murmur the only thing that came to mind. Confirming our harsh reality—they're looking for us...—after a few minutes of pure silence, the demon let out a high-pitched cry of… happiness!? You've got to be kidding me. 

—What's your damn problem?! You don't care about this!?

—I'm sorry, I'm sorry. I got emotional—he calmed down a little. Still containing the energy and emotion that blossomed in his chest—look, little pinetree, the wanted posters are pure nonsense. Although, of course, I'm proud that you got one! Even if it's not a crime, I'm proud of you, my beautiful little pinetree!—he hugged me, ruffling my hair as I tried to get out of his embrace. He came back to the wall full of my wanted posters. He took one in his hands to show it to me—wow! They even captured your bitter essence— he exclaimed, astonished, he compared the ad to my sour face. 

—Do you think this is good?! Just read this! "If he tries to attack or behaves strangely, don't hesitate to DEFEND YOURSELF!"—I emphasized the last word loudly.

—I guess people know you're surrounded by an extremely strong and powerful demon. Obviously, they had to clarify that.

—Why are you acting like this isn't anything bad or serious?!—I asked, seething with frustration.—I HAVE A REWARD!—I covered his face with the sign, pointing at the reward.

—Well, it's not that high, but in time you'll learn that the number isn't everything, it's how they draw you.

—Bill! Don't you understand? If they catch me, they'll return me to my family, or maybe the US government will experiment on me! And goodbye to our p-

The demon looked at me with a mischievous smile, his expression completely transformed into a more daring one. What's his problem now ?! Perhaps spinning around in the air like a child left him dumbfounded. And why is he staring at me so much?!

—and now what?

—Oh, nothing, it's just that... you want to go along with my plan!"

My eyes widened in shock. —No, no no no… I... I never. I didn't say that! You misunderstood me! I-

—Aww, Pinetree — Bill began to float around me with his signature playful smile. —So sweet, so innocent. I guess being with me for so long made me a bad influence on you

I started to feel nervous with Bill's flirtatious gaze looking me up and down. —You know, we can forget this and-

He placed his index finger between my lips to silence me. —I must confess that I've grown a little attached to you,  I was a little sad because these signs were your perfect chance to escape~ — He cupped my cheeks with both palms of his hands. He had a cocky smile, still looking at me, and I felt like I was about to melt like a popsicle, having his triangular face so close to mine. — But seeing you say it's our plan and that maybe you care about me a little. I don't know... it makes me so happy~

IS THIS A WAY TO NEGOTIATE WITH THE PEOPLE WHO WORKED WITH HIM!? Or is he just playing with me? I tucked my face deep inside, afraid he'd rip it off. I started sweating from my nerves and the heat generated by having him so uncomfortably close.

—B-Bill— I couldn't help but stutter.

—Yes, my Pinetree~

—Look— I pointed ahead at a family of tourists. The boy was pointing at me with the sign in his hand while showing his parents that he looked similar to me. His parents looked at me in horror. As if they'd seen a ghost. Luckily, they couldn't see Bill. But unfortunately, they recognized me instantly, even though I had my hood up. We made awkward eye contact with that family until Bill saw the mother pulling out her phone.

—Move, Pinetree, Move —  he gave me a small nudge from behind to get me moving and get us out of here.

Look... I don't change my mind, and I don't want to. I'm going back to my family even if I have to do immoral things. Just because I call it "our" plan doesn't mean I’m 100% on board, okay?

Besides, I don't care about Bill Cipher

As we walked through the town's woods, I turned around to see why Bill was quieter than usual. He was sitting a few feet off the ground. Deeply focused on petting a small squirrel in his lap, who was trembling with fear. Probably to pull out its teeth for his strange collection, he always talks about.

No matter how much he told the squirrel that everything was going to be fine, the creature was still scared. He yanked out two of its tiny teeth quite hard. The creature let out a very high-pitched squeal, but Bill silenced it by petting the animal more.

—Relax, the worst is over, little one. You need to stop chewing so many acorns so hard — he consoled him with a smile, but not a psychopathic or evil one. Rather, a sweet and cute...boyish smile?

Then I remembered the little Bill from my dreams. What does it mean? Was Bill always like this, or did something happen that radically affected him? He looked so scared, full of fat tears and guilt on his face. I still dream about him.

As much as I don't want to admit it, Bill was right, and for some strange reason, he always was. I don't want to go home. Maybe I'm afraid they'll see me as a different person or think I'm a monster, but that thought becomes increasingly insignificant when I spend time with him. Call me crazy, but I have a lot of fun being with Bill, even though he drives me crazy sometimes. He made my summer a little more entertaining. And even though I can't trust him completely, he... understood me and, impressively, liked listening to me talk about my "nerdy" things.

Do I want to stay here with Bill, despite being in these chains we're both wrapped around?

And... why does it smell burnt?

I turned around to see how the very blue fire Bill had created with a snap was slowly consuming him. I ran toward him to see how I could put out the fire. I tried to use my cape to turn it off the fire, but nothing worked. The strangest thing was that the fire wasn't spreading to my cape or me; it only affected Bill.

—Dipper, calm down... this is nothing…— he tried to calm the anxiety I had of not being able to help him.

—Are you kidding?! You're literally on fire! —  I couldn't help but scream out of fear.

—Calm down, they're only…— he sighed, then turned back to me —...summoning me.

—Summoning?! But who?! We're tied to this damn deal, and besides, who knows your summoning words without the...

—I have my suspicions —  he replied, looking away, annoyed, then turning back to me with a gentle smile. —But don't worry, everything will be fine. After all, being tied up will make it easier for you to find me.

—What?! But… how?!

—Just follow your heart... or your human senses, ugh! It's hard to explain! — His face was being devoured by the blue flames. Did he get that phrase from My Little Pony?! —Pinetree, listen to me, okay? Everything will be okay, I promise—  He took both of my hands and intertwined his fingers with mine. My hands weren't on fire, only his. —Besides, I don't think it's anything bad. probably some stupid archaeologist who found my summoning spell and wants me to teach him silly things like the mysteries of the universe or science. I'll be fine, it's already happened to me— carefully, he leaned down to press his forehead against mine. As I unconsciously leaned in.

—W-what if you don't come back?...

—Then find me, now you're ready.

He began to rise upward, making my attempts to hold his hands tightly in vain. It was done; the flames had already consumed him completely.

—And remember!—he said before disappearing —reality is an illusion! The universe is a hologram! Buy gold BYEEEEEEEE!

There was a blinding flash, and when everything calmed down, he was gone. Leaving me completely alone.

I'm not going to sit idly by like this. After all, Bill is...ugh! Damn it! I'm not going to hide it anymore! He's my friend! Okay?! Besides, if he gets in trouble, we'll both end up paying the consequences.

I rushed back to camp, rushing to pack some things in my bag: forks, a flashlight, a knife, a journal, and more forks! Why not? While I was doing this, I thought of any possibility or way to find out where Bill could be. I don't know if the "follow your human instincts" or "you're ready" thing would work. Did the demon think he was Sensei or something?!

As I left camp and ventured out to find Bill, I tried to find a sign or something that would give me a clue as to where Bill was. At least somewhere suspicious, perfect for playing Ouija boards and summoning Bill. All there were were trees, trees, trees, and oh my god! Trees. It was almost nighttime. How am I supposed to find Bill’s summoner in the middle of the forest? I didn't even have a clue.

I sighed exhaustedly. This will take time.

"Pinetree~"

Bill! Not now! I'm concentrating on... wait, what?

I looked around to find the owner of the humming, but there was no sign of anything or anyone.

"Pinetree~"

It had to be Bill. He's the only one who calls me that, and the only one who gives me weird and annoying nicknames. The voice was laughing like a demon. "Oh Pinetree~, you're such a dork~"

Great. Even though he's not here, he's still making fun of me.

"Look ahead, idiot."

As I looked ahead, like a flock of glowing fireflies, a path of flashing, luminous blue lights was pointed out. Is this real? I rubbed my eyes, but the path didn't disappear and was still there. Yep, this is 100% real. I think this is what Bill meant by saying it'll be easier to find him with the help of our Deal. 

As I followed the marked path, I heard all the words Bill had said since I met him. The voices grew louder the closer I got to my destination. It was fascinating to witness something like this; the connection between us was too strong.

"Pinetree~" "Pinetree~"

"HAHAHA, it's funny how dumb you are."

"Come on! Don't be such a sourpuss! Everything will be okay!"

"Oh, Pinetree~ You're so cute when you're angry~"

"You flatter me, pinetree~"

"I'm a dream demon, one of the most powerful where I come from."

"Waffles!"

"The name is Bill Cipher."

Bill's words grew louder and louder. The trail of light disappeared, and the voices faded as we reached what appeared to be an abandoned building on the outskirts of town.

"Please forgive me," was the last thing Bill’s voice murmured. How strange, that didn't sound like how Bill normally spoke?

Wait a minute, I've been here before. This is the factory on Gopher Road! Where I confronted...

Oh no, Gideon!

I pressed my face against the window, just as I suspected! There was that psychopathic kid who tried to woo my sister. He was very stressed, holding a piece of paper in his chubby hands. Bill seemed to enjoy watching the boy suffer. He was tied with blue magical chains around his ankles, neck, and wrists, but he didn't seem to be having a bad time. I couldn't hear what they were saying; I could barely hear Bill's laughter. When Gideon retreated, I started banging on the glass to get the demon's attention. He didn't seem at all happy to see me; his expression turned tense and nervous.

I headed inside, taking advantage of the fact that the white-haired kid was distracted. I ran over to Bill, knelt, and took out my journal to find a way to unchain him.

—Dipper! You have to get out of here! —  he ordered desperately.

—What?! No! I'm not leaving you here!

—You don't understand, Dipper! This is a-

—Trap? Yes, Cipher. You're right.

A tingling sensation gripped me, sending goosebumps all over my skin. I turned to look at the annoying kid. Despite his cute, media-friendly face, there's a real monster hiding behind him.

I stood up, covering Bill to protect him. —What do you want, Gideon?! — I asked him hatefully. He looked much different; his whitish hair was disheveled with twigs tangled in it, and his prison uniform was ripped, from his sleeves to his pants. He'd lost his deceptive appearance since entering prison, leaving dark circles under his doll-like blue eyes. It was clear how resentful he still was of me. For simply telling him what my sister never dared to tell him: "She doesn't want to go out with you."

—Well, well, well~ look what the wind blew; if it isn't the best brother in the world, Dipper Pines! Or should I say... Mason Pines! — The boy unfurled one of the wanted posters with my name on it. Damn! Why did Mabel and Uncle Stan have to put my full name on all the posters?!

—What do you want, Gideon? Huh? You didn't say you weren't "requesting" Bill's services anymore because he didn't fulfill your whim —  Bill gave me an exaggeratedly offended look; he hates having his ego stroked.

—Actually, I don't need him — he said without interest, causing Bill to grunt and glare at him with a look full of contempt. —He was simply my bait to lure the mouse out of its hole —

We both blinked in confusio n. The boy never spoke clearly; it was irritating when he speak in metaphors. —Ugh! Idiot! — He threw up his arms with noticeable irritation. —You're the mouse, and he's the- you know what? Forget it…— His face once again formed the same sinister smile, threatening us. Although more than threatening us, we were more frightened by how uncomfortable his cursed-doll smile was — a little bird told me 

About a “catastrophic" accident in a beautiful lady's play~"—the white-haired man sighed and looked away nostalgically at the mention of my sister.

—What's wrong with this guy? — Bill whispered uncomfortably. In response, I shrugged and shook my head at him with the same question in my mind. 

—Wonderful times. Like I was saying, the theater had burned to the ground, and it was all thanks to you! — The psychopathic kid grabbed a box and pulled out a pair of large scissors that weren't toys. —But Gideon? Adorable and amazing Gideon, how was the WIMPY DIPPER PINES able to burn down an entire place with his noodle arms!? — he said to himself, pointing the sharp scissors at the tip of my nose. I looked at him with contempt. If only he knew what I could do now with these noodle arms. —That's when I deduced you'd made a deal with my old partner, Bill Cipher, right?"

—I don't consider you my partner anymore! — The demon stuck out his tongue, trying to spit in his face.

—Besides, it was a great opportunity to see your filthy face plastered on the prison walls for a good price. 

—So, you ran away and did all this for... money?

—Not exactly. You see, I realized this would be a chance to escape that "lovely" place. Since you became a lost puppy, whose owner would do anything to have you back, and that includes...

—Hand them the deed to the Mystery Shack— I guessed, dumbfounded.

—Ding, ding, ding! Congratulations! You're not as stupid as I thought —  I tried to contain all my hatred with the strength of my fists. I've never felt this much anger toward someone like this—luckily, I still had Bill's summons, and if I called him, I'd draw his newest client to me. I doubted you'd come; it would have been the perfect opportunity for you to abandon him and escape. But apparently, you and that geometric shape have something special—he laughed mockingly as we both snarled in his face — You're too stupid to trust a manipulative demon, Pines.

—Enough! —  I ordered angrily. The boy grimaced in disgust. —If you don't free us, I'll—

Gideon launched himself at the top of me and began punching me in the face. To my surprise, some of the punches hurt, but most didn't even come close to a kicking baby. Once he was on top of me, he grabbed the same sharp scissors and prepared to stab me in the face with them. I grabbed his wrist tightly to keep the scissors away from my face.

—What will you do now, Dipper? Huh?! Without a demon to defend you, without family and friends to defend you, without a sister to defend you!

That swine...

—Face it, Pines, you're nothing without your sister. Unlike you, she's pretty, nice, and charming, not like you, who's weak...

That

—Dirty

Was

—Weird

The drop

—Good for nothing

That

—Clumsy

Spill

—That after what you did, no one will ever love you again! Did you hear that?! NO ONE WILL LOVE YOU!

THE FUCKING GLASS!

I wasn't listening to anything. Maybe Gideon was still talking, and I didn't understand him. All I could hear was my heart racing from the adrenaline pumping through me. I felt a rage that had been building up for a long time spread throughout my body and reach my head. All my teachings, all the morals I'd learned, all gone to hell, all the good things gone. Replacing them with… revenge.

I felt a tingling in my free hand, pulled out the extra forks I'd kept in my pocket "just in case," and felt the need to... ATTACK.

I stuck a fork into his pig-like nostrils. Gideon writhed in pain, moving away from me. I took the opportunity to get back up and get on top of him. The white-haired man groaned in pain as he pulled the fork out of his nose. His nose was dripping with blood, just like the object.

—Monster... they were right about you... YOU'RE A MONSTER! HOW DARE YOU!?

Monster, I think I was starting to like the nickname.  Like it was just another nickname that Bill always put on me. I didn't answer, I just laughed senselessly like an insane person. I liked being feared, I liked being called a monster.

—Y-you... Y-y-you're a...a-

—crazy? Of course I am.

Unfortunately, I can't describe what happened next. It would be great if you had nightmares, but... if I stutter through an essay on invertebrates and vertebrates, I don't think I'd be able to narrate a scene with gore. But I can tell you that little Gideon won't be able to pose for the cameras ever again. Let's just say I wanted to help him fix his face a little, but I ended up messing it up completely. Oh! You have to see his face!

It was a relief, a huge relief.

—Pinetree?

I turned around to see who else I had to kill-  False alarm, it's just Bill. I'd forgotten he was still here.

—Hey, Bill~ —  I crooned in the same tone Bill used when he playfully flirted with me. I walked over to where he was tied up and bent down to his eye level. My hands were stained with someone else's blood, as was my face.

—Pinetree! Wow! That was —  He looked pretty nervous. Is he sweating? Why did he look so red? Although... it was quite pleasant to see a high-class demon like this. —Are you... Okay?

—Okay? —  I laughed. —I feel... great~

The demon watched with an anxious look the drops of blood that fell from the forks I was still holding. I threw the fork in the air and grabbed his face. Pulling him closer so he'd pay attention and see my cheeky smile.

—You were right~

He blinked in confusion. —Excuse me?

—You were right — I affirmed again, lowering my flirtatious tone to a more hurt one. —People haven't done anything for me. They only hurt me and make me feel bad about myself. I don't deserve to be ignored like this! From now on, the world will be afraid of me. Of... us.

—Us?

—Yes! Us! Wouldn't you like that?

His expression said it all; inside, he loved the idea. A visible blush under his eye and a goofy expression gave him away pretty much. —But... your family?

—Them? Pfft- All of them can bite me! I don't need them! After all, I have you~ —  I  smiled sincerely this time, making his blush worse. —What do you say, my friend?

—I think that would be... GREAT PINE TREE! —  His smile widened to show his sharp teeth, his eyes shining with joy. I laughed at his childish, yet tender, reaction. —Oh, Pinetree! I swear I can hug you! But...

He shook the chains that had him tied up. —Damn! I completely forgot you were like that! — I laughed in embarrassment. Losing all my confidence. I let go of his face and began searching for the paper written with the spell to break those magical chains.

I would begin a new plan to move forward with this deal and show this town fear once and for all of what I am capable of. After helping my partner, of course.

Chapter Text

Have you ever heard of the French Revolution?

Me? A million times in my history class, replaying the same bloody war movies with my Grunkle Stan.

To summarize the story, there was an injustice between the Third Estate (peasants and the lower class) and the aristocracy. The aristocracy enjoyed endless parties, riches, and exquisite delicacies, while the lower class starved due to mismanagement and a poor harvest, resulting in a lack of food.

Now tell me, did the French stand idly by when they saw such injustice and let their people perish? Why did the upper class spend their entire budget on... CAKE?! NO! They banded together with people they disliked to fight for the same cause. They protested in the streets for their rights, forced the king to accept the orders of the new assembly, freed the people unjustly imprisoned in the Versailles prison, and left no aristocrats ALIVE. HOW DO YOU THINK MARIE ANTOINETTE ENDED UP, KIDS!?

—Dipper — my triangle friend caught my attention. Several beasts were looking at me with fear and concern. I think I'd gone a little too far.

—Sorry, I'm passionate about history — I laughed nervously. This will take time to explain...—The point is, those idiots are the aristocracy, and we are the Third Estate. And to reclaim what's ours, we must start a revolution... a paranormal revolution.

—May I have your attention, please!  — The plan went into action. Bipper spoke through a megaphone. Standing atop the statue of the town's founder, luckily, it was summer, and people were out and about almost all the time, from residents to tourists. The attention we were looking for.

No one was paying attention to him; everyone was busy doing their own thing. I knew Bill perfectly; he didn't like being ignored. So, to get his attention, he lit the first firework, which exploded in the air, making everyone stare at him in terror.

—Thank you very much—He thanked them politely, ignoring what he had done a little while ago. —Perhaps some of you know me as the weird kid with excessive sweating, a blue pinetree cap, and a lover of the paranormal, or for being the great-nephew of one of the most notorious scammers in Gravity Falls. But I think most people know me better for these "ADORABLE" signs —Bipper unfolded one of the wanted signs and stuck a fork into the price tag.

The crowd blinked in confusion, perhaps more people than had been seen in the theater that day. — Oh yeah! I know you! —exclaimed a skinny lady in a scout leader outfit. —You’re the boy who cried because he thought he wasn’t man enough to deliver a letter

Fuck, I thought no one would remember that!

—yeah, and the one who sneezes like a kitten —another citizen added. —He was so adorable.

While everyone in town nodded and howled with cuteness at the memory of my sneeze, Bipper began to laugh psychotically, trying to hide his obvious annoyance. —ADORABLE?! NOW YOU’LL SEE TRUE CUTENESS! — He angrily snapped his fingers, and several gnomes and Lilliputtians came out to surround all the citizens with pointy pencils, sharp branches, and menacing faces.

—What’s going on? Aren’t you a little too young to be leading an army of wild beasts, kid?!—Officer Blubs said authoritatively, followed by a "yes!" from Officer Durland.

—How can you treat the new citizens of Gravity Falls like this!—he responded dramatically, indignantly, putting a hand to his forehead. —That's very rude of you, officer.

—Citizens!?

—Yep—he nodded. —Look, officer, this isn't a war to the death! We're not animals!— Bipper raised his arms, revealing a gnome aggressively biting his arm. He didn't feel anything; rather, it tickled him and let him continue. —This is a reform! A paranormal revolution! And we're going to demand our rights as the original citizens of Gravity Falls.

I appeared behind him, revealing my ghostly form to everyone thanks to an illusion created by the devil. I fired with a revolver at the sky to give the signal. Anomalies from unicorns to giants fearlessly showed themselves to the entire town, ready to attack.

I must tell you, moving forward with this plan wasn't easy. I mentioned the idea to Bill while we were eating ice cream at camp. It's not a bad idea to have the creatures of the town wanting to help with the cause. Besides, if they helped us, they could recapture those glory days their ancestors talked about before the townspeople came.

It wasn't easy; it took us four days to organize and gather all the townspeople who appeared in the journal. Some were quickly convinced by the idea of having the town back in their hands (or whatever they have for hands), but others didn't make it easy for us...

We had to debate for four hours with the Manotaurs and the Multi-bear to make peace, have a disc battle with the unicorns, arm wrestles with the abominable snow boy, wake up the zombies, wake up the ghosts, steal all kinds of artifacts, negotiate with the Lilliputians (those things are disgustingly tricky. They almost stole my backpack thinking I had money in it). And the hardest part was sneaking into the town's local arcade and unlocking all the secret codes to get the characters out of their games. That included getting beaten to bits by Rumble McSkirmish and a strange yandere almost kidnapping Bill because she was attracted to his cheap flirtations.

When we gathered everyone at camp, we pledged to work together despite our differences and the fact that we didn't get along. They cooperated quite well and followed the plan to the letter. They were quite committed to taking back the town.

Of course, not everything was perfect; there were fights and arguments. But Bill took care of that, reminding them every second who he was and what he could do to them if they didn't cooperate.

Once they drove the entire town away, they would have their home back. We would take advantage of this to sneak into the Mystery Shack with my family outside, enter the passageway, and look for the artifact that would begin our great empire.

So far, everything was going according to plan. The townspeople were screaming and trying to escape, and the beasts were roaming around the town, frightening everyone with their presence. Everything was devolving into chaos.

Chaos, I can see why Bill finds it so satisfying. There's no order, no one telling you what to do. Chaos equaled freedom.

—We did it, Pinetree!— I felt Bipper lift me in his arms and spin me around until I was dizzy. When we stopped spinning, I returned to my body again, and Bill was back in his usual shape. —You're amazing, Pinetree! I'm amazing! We are amazing!—

I never stopped laughing, and I never stopped smiling either. —We're a team, silly! Of course we are incredible! — I continued laughing at his enthusiastic attitude.

Bill let go of me and placed me back on the floor. —Well... since we'll be ruling all of this together soon, could I have a dance with my empress～? Or do you want me to call you emperor～?

—I thought you were the empress～ —I smiled mischievously to make his blush worse.

The triangle placed a hand over his mouth to hide and pretend he was coughing. —Well... I don't think I'll argue with you. Since I look more like a diva than you do, emperor — he smiled catlike, still offering me his hand.

—Okay, but on one condition… —I pulled an old Walkman out of my bag. I still can't believe we found this beauty at the local garbage dump. I tap to play one of the greatest classics of all time.

—"Gimmie gimmie"? Don't you think it doesn't fit the theme of conquest?

—This song "conquered" all the clubs in the 70s— This time, I was the one who smiled flirtatiously and winked, increasing the blush on his face.

The demon laughed  and took my hand. —Okay, if you say so.

I was amused by every horrible dance move we made. More like  I made, because he was already an expert at the dance. I kept stepping on him, but that didn't matter to him. I felt like I was in a club like the ones BABBA describes in their songs, unaware that we were dancing crazily in the middle of a town descending into chaos. With each turn, I was teleported back to that song. I was the queen of the club, not a guy in a towel singing the song.

The music was ending, but I felt like I was still there. This time, I put my arms around the demon's shoulders, and he gently gripped my waist. I felt him tremble, but his smile was still there. Was Bill Cipher nervous?

—My axolotl! You're too small! You have to stand on tiptoe to look at me—he joked, laughing 

—It's not my fault the dream demon is a lamppost —I joked back, making him laugh even more.

There was something about his laugh. I didn't know why, but it was less sadistic and more human. Don't get me wrong, his maniacal laughter had become so familiar to me that I already had it, but this one was very different. It was more melodious and sincere.

His eyes shone when he saw me, and I had only just realized how close we were, but that didn't bother me; I felt comfortable like this. Another piece of music started playing, a slower, older song than BABBA that I couldn't recognize. But I don't think I was even listening to it. All my attention was on him.

The demon chuckle a little — Dipper... your face is redder than a strawberry— I touched my cheek with one hand; it was burning. I could easily tell I had a fever. Do I also have an indelible goofy grin on my face?

—The sun—I replied without thinking; my face was swollen from smiling so much.

He kept laughing, and I kept looking at him with that goofy expression as we danced. Why I feel like this again?, like I'm talking to Wendy or another girl. Could it be...

Nah, it must be the sun and the fact that I'm really tired. We stayed up all night with Bill, making the final adjustments to make this plan work.

I noticed Bill suddenly squinting his one eye to see something behind me, his face changing from happy to panicked.

—hey…are you… —I asked, but he interrupted me first.

—crouch down

—What?

—crouch down!

Luckily, he got there in time to push me to the ground and hug me before the bullet hit me. The sound of the shot didn't impact the anomalies attacking the town. They were so distracted scaring the townspeople and making them run, they didn't hear the loud sound.

If it hadn't been for Bill, that bullet would have killed me. He hugged me tightly around the waist to protect me from the bullet. The demon got off me, asked if I was okay, and held out his hand to help me up from the ground.

I still hadn't processed what had just happened. Had someone tried to kill us? But...who?

My answers became clearer when I saw the direction the bullet came from; a mane of brown hair was hiding behind the bushes. Upon meeting her gaze, identical to mine, she became alarmed and fled, disappearing into the trees.

It could only mean one thing: I'd recognize that look anywhere. Mabel had fired.

—Bill, stay here. I-I won’t take too long

—Dipper! Wait!

I ignored him, clueless, leaving him behind to chase my sister deeper into the woods.

As I ran through the trees, I couldn't find her. My patience was slowly fading, while the madness and aggression took over me again, like the night I attacked Gideon. I pounded my chest and tried to calm down, wiping the sweat from my hands with my dress pants.

—Try to breathe deeply before you have a panic attack.

There she was, this week's star! Leaning against one of the oak trees, expressionless, no smiles or pouts. Just seriousness. I felt my anger flare, and I began to heat my hands to attack with the only thing I had: my nails.

—YOU'RE THE LEAST PERSON TO TELL ME WHAT TO DO!—I yelled, spitting saliva in the process. She sighed in disappointment.

—Dipper, listen to me...

—NO! I'M SICK OF LISTENING TO YOU! LISTENING TO MOM, DAD, THE DOCTORS! TO ANYONE!—My sister cautiously backed away in case I attacked. Seeing the rage in my eyes, —ONE DAY YOU'LL LISTEN TO ME! SOMEONE IS GOING TO LISTEN TO ME!

—Don't you understand?! — Impulse won, and she took a step toward me. —He's cheating on you! Just look!

She unrolled a battered and wrinkled letter. The handwriting was messy and too big, written in permanent marker. —I found it in the car on the way back from the play. And I'm telling you, this isn't any ordinary letter...it's from Bill! And it says here that he was going to...HEY! —Before she could continue, I snatched the piece of paper out of her hands, crumpled it into a ball and stuffed it in my mouth.

She was outraged. I continued chewing until I swallowed the bitter taste of paper. —Why did you do that?!

—I DON'T WANT TO KNOW ANYTHING! NOTHING WILL EVER CHANGE MY MIND, MABEL!

—But Dipper! If you had read it! —she  implored, her shrill voice cracking. —He wants-

—You know what?! — I stopped before scratching her face. I had to control myself. I took a deep breath and hugged myself to contain the violent impulse. I turned away so as not to look at her and get even more enraged. — You know what... at least he understands me and won't leave me alone...

Silence. Neither of us spoke or said anything, just silence. I don't know if it was my imagination, but I heard as if something had broken, like a vase falling and shattering into a thousand pieces.

Her voice cracked. I didn't know why, but I refused to look her in the eyes. — Am I such a bad sister... Dipper?

It wasn't a personal or rhetorical question; she wanted an answer. Maybe she was selfish sometimes and forgot about me because she was more sociable than me. She was even willing to give the diary to Bill and leave me as a ghost forever!

But despite everything, she was there in those difficult moments, like when…

"MASON BREATHE! BREATHE!"

"YOU HAVE TO BE STRONG, BRO-BRO! YOU CAN DO IT!"

"COME ON, MASON, YOU CAN DO IT. YOU'RE A STRONG BOY. YOU DO IT VERY WELL."

"DIPPER..."

"I LOVE YOU"

I contained my strength by clenching my fists. — I have to go— I replied monotonously. I moved forward to leave the woman I called my sister in the woods.

— You know they're coming for you? Right? They'll want to kill you, thinking Bill possesses you 100%.

I laughed out loud —  Let them try... they won't just mess with Bill, but with me too.

There was no goodbye. I knew I'd see her again with the others, and they'd try to kill me if necessary to stop the demon. But I didn't care what my family did anymore. I had a purpose, and that purpose was…

— Pinetreee!

Talking about Rome.

The demon threw himself at me, hugging me until I was breathless. He almost broke my back and made me fall to the ground, but I was relieved and happy to see him, too. — Thank the guardians, you're okay! Did that bitch do something to you?! Did she shoot you?! Do you have a permanent scar that will be super cool and sexy when you turn 40?!

I couldn't help but laugh at my partner's energy and excitement. His eyes shone as he scanned my neck, face, and arms for any future scars. I pulled him away, looking at him tenderly. — Relax, nurse! I'm fine. And scars are unlikely to be sexy on me —  I joked, his smile widening.

Before we headed back to camp and planned our next brilliant move, Bill nudged me intending to ask me a question.

— Hey... did you talk to…

— Let's just say I had a 'nice' family reunion — I said sarcastic, emphasizing the quotation marks.

Bill only chuckle one last time. — Good for you then, Pinetree. Good for you...

Chapter Text

—I swear I'm pretty close, believe me.

It was early morning. I had woken up from a strange, nightmare-free dream. I guess I was starting to get used to them and love them a little more. I noticed Bill wasn't resting in the hammock he always lay in. But there was a strange flickering yellow glow illuminating part of the forest. I got up, rubbing my eyes a little to wake myself up, and headed toward the pulsing light. I guess it's Bill; he's one of the creatures that shines the most at night, and he can't be that far away, either.

As I got closer, I heard some murmurs from the demon, as if he were talking to someone on the phone. As I walked on, the murmurs became clearer.

—I just need more time! Yes! I've got him under control! What?! No! Those idiots would never do my job right!

I figured he was talking to someone from the nightmare realm. Bill had told me about the "friends" he had in that dimension and how they had entrusted him with this job so he could save their dimension from total extinction. They all trusted him, and sometimes I felt like it was a heavy burden for a young demon like him. He's probably reporting everything that happened to them, and that I had joined him to collaborate. That narcissist better give me credit!

When the murmurs became clearer, I caught a glimpse of Bill floating cross-legged, turning his back on me. His pose was similar to the meditation pose they had you do in yoga. Is this how he communicates with the nightmare realm?

—Oh, about that— His irritation disappeared and turned into pity and fear. —I-I haven't taken care of that yet... but I promise I will!

—Bill? — I decided to interrupt, he turning around in surprise as if seeing me was a bad thing. He whispered an audible "I'll call you later," and he turned back to me with a nervous smile.

—Pinetree! My only favorite human! — He laughed nervously, clearly hiding something.

—Who were you talking to? — I raised my eyebrow and crossed both arms. —Were you talking to your girlfriend? — I joked, smiling slyly. I turned around to touch myself and make kissy noises, pretending to be a couple passionately kissing.

—Ha ha ha, how FUNNY, Pinetree — He laughed fakely.

—Oh come on, Cipher! — I pleaded, exaggerating my dramatic tone. —Someday I have to meet the girl of your heart... or boy, or whatever it is you like!

He just laughed dryly. —That'll happen when they add a mouth to the flying eyes.

Amidst laughter and silliness, we walked back to camp.

—But seriously, dude — I said, calming my laughter. —Who were you talking to? It sounds like the most irritating person that could ever annoy the great and powerful Bill Cipher.

The demon was rummaging through the supply bags. —Oh, nothing you have to worry about, Pinetree— he replied, tossing me a can of Pitts soda. —Just an old friend talking nonsense, nothing out of the ordinary— the demon nudged me confidently and put his arm around my shoulders.

I stared at the unopened can, pondering what Mabel had said about that "note" Bill wrote.

"...this isn't just any ordinary letter, it's from Bill! And it says here that he was going to... "

What was Bill going to do? What did that letter say? What if Mabel was right? What if he...

Bill noticed I was pretty deep in my thoughts, which worried him a little. —Hey...umm...I'm serious, you have nothing to worry about— he said, scratching the back of his neck. I looked at him, a little bewildered, pushing my lips back into my mouth uncertainly.

He just sighed, —It might be hard to trust anyone in this town. Believe me, I know how it feels... I'm not saying you trust me; I couldn't either. I would never have considered anyone my friend until I met you, and... that changed. It's been quite fun having someone by my side, and whether you want me to stay here or leave, I'll respect that.

Truthfully, I could relate. I'd never had a friend (if I omitted Mabel), much less in this town. There were quite a few of them, and they were hard to trust. But since he arrived... I guess I can have fun and be myself. It might be hard to trust and adapt to Bill, but... I think I won't worry about that anymore. Despite everything, he and I are friends (and future rulers of this world).

I smiled confidently at him, and his spirits lifted again. —Well, while we're at it, how about we make a toast? To Bill and Dipper! That from tomorrow onwards, they will never be ignored again and will reign as sovereigns of these lands—I couldn't help but laugh at the long title.

Yes, we will never be ignored again.

—Cheers? — he asked, raising his can.

—Cheers! — I said happily, clinking my drink with his.

Chapter Text

A few months before summer

"You are a phenomenon and you always will be."

"How about you try going to one of these summer camps? It'll do you good, you'll make friends."

"It's just a phase. He just wants attention. He'll grow out of it."

"What are you reading, Dip-shit!?"

"He's not breathing! We're losing him!"

"I’m sorry, Dipper.  but I'm going to be with some friends. Maybe another day."

"BREATHE CHILD BREATHE!"

"OH! Dip-shit is going to faint again HAHAHAHAHA"

"¡DIPPER!"

"I love you..."

Dipper tried to contain his anger by curling up into a ball. He hugged his knees tightly, wondering: What had he done wrong?

He'd stopped playing a video game to lie down and reflect after his talk with his parents. They'd told him about a summer rehabilitation camp. Maybe with this, he could improve his condition, even become friends.

They'd left three camp brochures next to his video game console for him to decide which one to go to. He wanted to throw them away or even swallow them, but obviously, his parents would notice. He wasn't going to a camp where he was constantly reminded of his condition and the reason he was there.

And it wasn't a good thing that his sister was going. No matter where they were, she was going to be friends, and he had to manage on his own as usual. She will make a stupid promise that they'd stay together, and in the middle of the day, she'd find her "camp romance."

— May, can we talk? 

The door to his room opened with a soft creak. It was his mother. A skinny woman with wavy, honey-colored hair pulled back in a low bun and chocolate brown eyes lighter than his. Dipper's mother is very close to him, and when she discovered what was happening to her son after a few sessions with the psychiatrist and a sleep study, she'd been doing her best to help him get better or even make friends.

— I told you not to call me that... — he growled, still annoyed with his mother. He still had his back to her. She wasn't going to bring up the topic of the name again; she didn't want to make things worse.

— I- I mean, Dipper... the camp thing is for...

— It's for your own good — he recited the phrase as if he knew it by memory, emphasizing the quotation marks very clearly. — You've said that a million times! Besides, I'm still trying to figure out which camp would be the least bad to go to...

— Dipper... What did we say about being pessimistic?

The boy sighed—If you're pessimistic, you'll attract all the bad things to you — He could tell he knew every damn phrase his mom told him and the numerous psychologists he'd been to. He buried his face deeper in his knees, wishing his mother would leave.

— Exactly, although I don't think you'll have to choose a camp in the end... — Dipper stopped turning his back on her, sat down on his bed, and looked at her, confused.

— Your dad and I talked to your great-uncle, from your dad. Do you remember him?

— Great-Uncle Stan?! Mom! That old man is crazy!

— Dipper! Don't talk about your uncle like that! — she scolded, crossing her arms.

— He made us spend 24 hours in juvenile hall for Thanksgiving! — he said, as an excuse to defend his reason —Mabel still remembers the cold bars of jail! And don't even mention having "counterfeiting" on our file! That old man is a criminal!

—He's still family! Although yes, he may be a criminal, and after that we'll never spend Thanksgiving with him again, but... he's family! —The boy groaned angrily, lying back again, curling into a ball with his back to his mother.

She sighed again; she wanted to rub his back to comfort him, but he wouldn't let her touch him. —M-Dipper...listen, where your uncle lives is a very beautiful place. It's full of fresh air, forest, and very far from the stressful city, just like Dr. Foster recommended. It'll be good for you to be there, think about it; you'll help your uncle with his business, play in the woods, eat ice cream, and maybe make...

—...friends? —I guessed sarcastically, frowning at his mother to see if she was serious——Yeah, right...don't worry about that, Mom. Mabel would do much better if she forgot she had a brother.

—Dipper! Don't say that about your sister! She loves you very much, just like Dad and I—the woman couldn't believe what her son was saying. He wanted to believe this was the beginning of puberty. She stroked his back a little, but the brunette moved away until he was pressed against the edge of the bed. His mother sighed again, tired. —It's decided, Dipper. If you don't go to camp, then you'll go to your uncle's. End of discussion.

He wanted to protest, wanted to give him several arguments. But his mother always won the argument. Besides, he didn't feel like continuing this conversation.

The woman got out of bed and walked to the door to leave. Before leaving, she turned to see her son and smiled affectionately. —Hey? You know you're destined for...

—Mom, stop! — he protested, sitting up a little in bed. —This mark has only caused me problems! Besides, it's absurd to believe in things like this...— He turned his back on her again and curled up into a ball. His mother murmured something he couldn't hear and left.

He was just thinking, hugging his knees tightly, and shedding small tears.

"Why was he like this?" he thought as he pulled at his tangled hair.

"Why did he have a weird birthmark?" He rubbed his arms to calm himself, but only scratched them as if a cat had done it. Leaving his arms red.

"Why was he weak? He couldn't even hurt himself!" His breathing began to be uncontrollable, and the sobs were replaced by labored breaths.

"Why couldn't he make friends without them thinking he was a freak?" He wrap ped both hands around his neck and squeezed tightly as his breathing worsened. His mind was taking over, telling him, "Do it, end this. Do it! Or are you weak?"

"Why couldn't he be more like his sister?" His hyperventilation turned into screams, which he didn't even hear. He fell out of bed and continued squeezing tightly. He felt like he was going to lose control again.

WHY!? WHY!? WHY!? WHY WAS DIPPER PINES WEAK?! WHY!? WHY!? WHY!?

He hated himself.

Yes...he hated himself. But that changes today.

Present: 

Tonight was the big night, the night where Bill and I would stop being simple teenagers that no one took seriously, and become legends who conquered an entire dimension and will continue to conquer more and more. We would no longer be hidden in the shadows; we no longer had to pretend to be something we weren't! Because we were free! Free to do whatever we wanted! And that includes causing chaos wherever we went.

The breeze in the forest was fresh, the stars were so bright they lit up even the darkest parts of the forest, and best of all, no one was sleeping. The new inhabitants of Gravity Falls weren't going to sleep; they had planned to celebrate this great achievement all night long. Drinking, dancing, and singing.

It would have been fun to stay, but we had to finish our plan once and for all. We got ready and headed toward the Mystery Shack, where it all began.

Obviously, sometimes you have to take a fun trip. As we walked, we competed to see who could laugh the loudest, howled at the moon like a couple of madmen, and played parkour with the logs, rocks, and puddles.

—Hey! You're cheating! It's not fair! —I called his attention, running up to him. Let's just say someone was flying over the obstacles to win.

—I make the rules, Pinetree!— he replied, sticking his tongue out at me. —So it's not cheating— He began to laugh with his distinctive laugh as he accelerated.

So the little triangle wants to play, huh? I started to pick up speed, jumping over small rocks and puddles. To take a shortcut, I walked quickly up a long, wide log, trying not to fall. Wow! The creatures certainly showed no mercy to the trees. Most of them were down, like simple dominoes.

I jumped off the log and ran again with all my might, passing my colleague. I turned around to see his pride completely shattered. "Muah!" I blew a kiss in the air to tease him. — Colorful kisses, Cipher! See you later! — I greeted, sticking out my tongue, and quickened my pace.

 —Ho ho ho! You'll see, Pines! — I heard Bill from a distance, sure to speed up his flight after the humiliating defeat against a human like me.

Without looking where I was going, I crashed and fell on the ground into a trunk larger than the one I had climbed. I rubbed my forehead and got up from the ground, analyzing the big fallen tree. It would take me a long time to get around it or try to climb it.

 —Shall I give you a ride?  —  In the blink of an eye, I felt someone tugging at my wrists and lifting me upward. When I opened my eyes, the ground was several meters away. From above, Bill effortlessly grabbed me by both wrists, making me fly alongside him. It was a wonderful experience, the clouds vanished as they hit my body, and all the adrenaline I felt was regulated as I saw the beautiful forest landscape from afar.

Something caught my attention. In the distance, I saw a small but well-known shack thanks to its distinctive signs and peculiar architecture that made it iconic and attractive to tourists. We had reached our destination: the Mystery Shack.

Slowly, my colleague lowered himself and decelerated, gently placing me on the green grass. I let go of his hands and dusted my pants a little.  —Okay, copilot! We've arrived! — he said

There we were, back again, right in front of where it all began, the place that holds a thousand secrets and mysteries. Obviously, we weren't going to break in like thieves this time. For God's sake! We have some decency! We also had dressed elegantly for the occasion. I  wore my priest suit, and Bill wore one similar to mine but with a shirt and bow tie.

We approached the door that led to the gift shop. I grabbed a  rock from the ground to throw at it and break the glass door. Bill stopped me before I did this.  —Pinetree, you'll see some things that will make you think differently about everything you experienced this summer and who the Pines family really is. Are you sure you're ready to face all this?

I didn't think twice, and I got straight to the point.  —You know?,  I don’t know what I’m going to find inside there.  Maybe it's something I wouldn't have liked to discover in the past. But that Dipper is gone. I'll face anything, no matter how scary or strange it is...

My friend laughed and affectionately ruffled my curly hair.  —That's my Pinetree! Now let's do this!

I placed one of the million replica masks of my "grunkle's" face on my face and put a fork and knife in my pants’ pockets.  —On the count of three...

—...one... — I lifted the rock.

 —Two...  — said the demon, his one eye fixed on the door, just like me.

 —Three! —we said in unison. He threw the rock, shattering the glass door. I took the opportunity to put my arm in to open it from the inside. Feeling the handle with my fingertips, I pulled it open a little.

Bill did the honors of kicking the door open, revealing the interior of the gift shop. — Royalty first — I said reverently, making him laugh with my bow. I showed him my wrist, which was bloody from the small pieces of glass that had stuck or scratched me. But I barely noticed.

—Thank you very much, my faithful servant—He played along as always, and we entered the empty, dark gift shop. It was strange to see this store without people; the light outside could barely illuminate a few items. Luckily, I had Bill, who was the equivalent of a living lantern, as his triangular head shone like the sun itself.

He nudged me to get my attention and pointed me toward the vending machine. Bill floated over and entered the code from last time. The door opened, releasing a small amount of steam, revealing the narrow hallway once again. We both looked at each other, impressed to see it had worked.

My excited companion took a step toward the hallway, but I stopped him with a shake of my finger. Before he could protest or say anything, I pulled an old cassette out of my backpack that said in bold, "Don't listen to it." This wasn't just any old cassette. No, no, no. This was THE  cassette with the greatest songs ever heard, randomly mixed onto this tape. It takes me late hours of the night to complete it, and believe me, it's worth it.

When my player started playing "Money Money Money" by BABBA, I winked at him from under my mask. His lips widening into a smile was my answer that I had done the right thing by bringing the music player…

We both walked down the stairs in style, to the beat of the music. Let's face it, it's impossible to resist dancing when your favorite song is playing at full volume. Even if whatever you were doing was important. It adds a whole new atmosphere to any situation that should be serious.

As we entered the elevator, the cassette on the treadmill jammed. I hate it when that happens; I can see why they stopped using these things. I tapped the thing so it would start playing again and end this awkward silence. The elevator doors opened, revealing a very messy room. The music came back on, and we continued dancing.

I immediately assumed it must be a private room or a laboratory, similar to the one in the bunker. But I didn't have time to analyze it that much, since my partner and I started burning everything with our bare hands.

We did this in succession, destroying everything while we danced to the beat of the music. As I left the merger, I was obviously sorting through the pile of paperwork to see if there was anything important that could be useful to us before burning everything. As Bill had always told me, most of it was either important information for our project or objects of adoration toward him that made him quite uncomfortable.

—Will you allow me this dance, my sweet prince? —The demon approached me, hugging me by the waist and removing the old man’s mask. I played along with his silly game by wrapping my arms around his shoulders.

—Oh no! Oh no! I can't do something like that!— I dramatized, trying to hold back my laughter. I brought my hand to my forehead and rocked back a little —I'm an ordinary, shy, and very sophisticated nerd. I can't fall for the charms and cheap flirtations of someone so predictable, but who secretly wants to kiss him all over because he's so handsome— I tugged on his bun, pulling him closer to me.

—Wow, you are playing hard to get, huh? That turns me on even more~— he flirted in a fake sensual voice, as he leaned closer to my lips. We both couldn't contain our laughter at how ridiculous this was, and we started laughing out loud until we fainted on the floor. Maybe for some, the way we laughed would be out of place and maniacal. But we weren't normal, and we paid even less attention to those "someones"

I took a deep breath to relieve the pain in my ribs. I opened the cap of the bottle of vodka and began pouring it all over the room. When I finished soaking everything, I put my mask back on and left a box we had found in one of the rooms.

—Hey... aren't those...? — He was right; that box contained fake passports and IDs belonging to none other than Grunkle Stan himself. When I found them in that room, I couldn't believe it. All this damn time, he'd hidden who he really was from us. A person disguised as someone dead.

My real grunkle had died years ago, and he was replaced by this criminal who pretended to be him and built all this. But... Why did he do it? Who is he really? Who was Stanford Pines?

I sighed and stopped looking at the box containing the evidence of my grunkle's deception. —Let's just burn everything, Bill — I said sharply. And we merged together, igniting with a blue fire the entire room and the box in a single snap.

Bill was more than happy to be rid of all this. As we parted, he told me it was a wave of bad memories to see all these objects in his adoration. He loved being admired, but everything had its limits.

We had already checked all the rooms served by the elevator, and there was no sign of the portal. So only the one on the down floor was left. The elevator took longer to descend; it seemed we were headed to the lowest part of the shack. When we opened its doors, we found a room full of monitors and machines of all kinds stuck to both walls, making the path even narrower and narrower.

Up ahead, there was nothing either. It was very dark, and everything here seemed as if it had already stopped working and had been abandoned. My nerves increased with the thought that they had already used up all the power the machine had, rendering it useless and never going to work again.

—Pinetree... I think you need to see this...—Bill's voice sounded anxious and worried about what he had found. I approached the tempered glass window that my friend was pointing out. There was no need to squint at what I had just witnessed...

...it was the portal, and it was completely in ruins.

It was shaped like an upside-down triangle with a hole in the middle. Honestly, it reminded me a bit of Bill, but the biggest problem that made me bite my lip hard was that it wasn't even turned on or in good condition. It was destroyed. I could barely tell it was the portal thanks to some illustrations in the journal. It looked like a hurricane had passed through here.

My hopes were completely dashed. My friend and I exchanged nervous glances. —It can't be— were the only words I could manage. —The portal... is... is...

—Destroyed.

A hand on my shoulder made my hair stand on end. Bill's sharp pupil shrank to the maximum in panic. We turned slowly, waiting to be scolded like two little kids in trouble. The person who addressed us looked exactly like Grunkle Stan, but... There was something that set him apart. Bill, on the other hand, seemed very scared, about to throw up all the Pitt soda he'd drunk. I felt his hand squeezing mine in panic.

—See you again, Stanford — he said, gathering some courage as he looked at him defiantly. —The author of the journals — he greeted him with a not-so-friendly smile. Emphasizing to everyone who he was. The author of journals?

—Bill... — he said his name with disgust. I gulped again.

—Grunkle Ford, wait!— A familiar shrill voice was heard from afar. My twin appeared before everyone, accompanied by Stan, Soos, and Wendy, who were dressed as if they were in an apocalypse. What a nice family reunion!

I looked again at the man who looked similar to Stan, but with glasses and a black coat. The author of the journals? Grunkle Ford? Of course! Now everything was clear. He's not only the author of the journals, he's Stan's brother! That's why they're identical, because they're twins! —So you hid this from us, too? Huh?! — I yelled at the one I used to call "grunkle." Laughing bitterly, —What else? My parents are secret FBI agents? Don't make me laugh! 

—Dipper! Please listen to me!—my twin implored, her eyes glazed over. —This is the reason he hid all this from us! Grunkle Stan just wanted to save his brother!. He came to help you, Dipper... just... look at you...

She approached the mysterious man, smiling at me to compel me to take pity on him. The man extended a hand. —Kid, I can help you, just let me–

—OH NO! DON’T EVEN THINK ABOUT IT, YOU SIX-FINGERED GRAY-HAIRED OLD MAN! — My companion stood in front of me, pushing away his hand with the extra finger in disgust and growling at him like a wild animal. His voice warped, his head went from a yellow to a blood red, and his eyes were deeply black, decorated with a feline red pupil that reflected his anger.— I’M NOT GOING TO LET YOU TURN MY PINETREE AGAINST ME! AFTER EVERYTHING WE’VE BEEN THROUGH!

From behind, I could see my old family trembling in fear at Bill's new form, and they immediately drew their weapons. The only one who wasn't scared was the one who called himself Ford, who felt nothing but disgust at the demon's new transformation.

I felt the old man's hand grip my wrist tightly, and I was lifted from there effortlessly. Fearlessly passing through the enraged demon. No matter how much I cursed and kicked him, he wouldn't let go. I felt like if he kept squeezing me with that force, he'd take my hand off.

—-Calm down, family—- he turned to reassure the people still there, showing how I was growling as if I were a strange experiment or an anomaly. —I learned a little exorcism trick from an old friend on my travels through dimensions. According to what I've learned, using this, we can extract Bill Cipher from weak minds and fragile bodies—- I growled. Ford pulled his hand, which was gloved with a medieval blacksmith's glove, out of his pocket.

When he touched the arm he was holding me with, I moaned from the burning sensation. It felt like a thousand hot stones had been placed on my arm. The pain continued; it was burning. I writhed on the ground, screaming for it to stop; it was endless.

It wasn't just me who felt it, but Bill did too. Although he suffered worse. Through teary eyes, I saw Bill glitch and change into various forms in the blink of an eye. Both of us agonized in pain as he watched, not caring how far he could hurt us.

—GRUNKLE FORD, ENOUGH! ENOUGH! —- I heard Mabel plead. The sensation of burning alive began to subside when that fucking glove stopped making contact with my arm.

—-I'm sorry, my niece, but until the demon is out of him, I have to keep doing it.

—You're hurting him! Idiot! What happens if you end up killing him? — I heard Stan's plaintive voice from behind me. As if it were just background noise.

—So that means Bill has become part of this child, and there's no way to save him. If I have to get rid of the owner to protect this universe, I'll do it for the greater good—with that response. He touched my arm hard again, sending us into anguish once more.

It was useless, even though we got up again to attack. We got back on the ground while a shock tortured us as punishment for our actions. I started to bleed and had some burns on my wrist, but what worried me most was the dream demon. With each shock, tiny pixels of his skin were torn away. If they continued like this, it would completely erase him from this plane. I would lose my only friend forever.

When the shock subsided, Bill took advantage of this to weakly stand up, still glitching, changing shape, and yellow pieces that looked like glass falling from his face. But that didn't stop him from addressing the author of the journals in a threatening tone.

—What did you say, scum? — the man asked in confusion. Looking at the demon kneeling on the ground,

—I...II...W0..0 ... .n’t...let ... y08....to4Ch...my...my…P1....nE3...t333—- he said protectively, standing in front of me so he couldn't touch me anymore. I squinted to see the scene better; for a moment, I felt my heart pound and my eyes water at my colleague's actions.

—Why?! — I asked, agitated. —WHY ARE YOU DOING THIS?! YOU NEVER FELT LOVE OR COMPASSION FOR ANYONE, YOU WRETCHED DEMON! WHY ARE YOU STILL PROTECTING HIM?—the old man demanded an answer, holding back his urge to punch him in the eye with his large, six-fingered fists.

He helped me up from the floor, putting my arm around his shoulders. I continued to stare at the protective demon, who looked at me with a smile full of affection and love. —I-I guess... I guess people can change their point of view...— I couldn't resist sobbing a little and returning the sweet smile.

—Let's finish what we started, Pinetree— I grabbed his hand and stood beside him. Bill materialized into golden dust, my body absorbing him until two minds were controlling the same body. —You're right, Fordy...— two voices answered in unison. —I am an irredeemable omnipotent demon, but you know what? At least I'm not alone!— We finished, revealing the two parts of me represented in my eyes. One yellow with the pupils of a cunning feline, and the other chocolate-colored with the pupils of a free and curious soul.

Before Ford could touch us again with his glove, we snapped our fingers, enveloping the entire room in a blinding white light accompanied by a thud. It could have been compared to an explosion. By the time everyone had regained consciousness, Bill and I were no longer there, but far away from the small tourist trap.

Bill separated from my body. I felt like any rocking would make me fall asleep. Luckily, my friend held me, hugging my hip and wrapping my arm around his shoulders to keep me upright. I looked like a worn-out puppet, with bruises and burns, especially on my wrist and stomach. Bill took advantage of the fact that he had me close to wiping some blood off the side of my head and ash from my cheeks.

—Bill…—- I stammered, a cough taking over my voice. —-I-I failed you... I f-failed you like I always do... I... I...

—Dipper, for the love of the axolotl! Stop talking nonsense! — he scolded with all his might. He was also in the same dying state as me. —I forbid you from saying that in your life! You heard me! — His one eye was accumulating dozens of black tears.

—But Bill... your plan? Our plan...

—We'll find another damn plan! — he replied firmly and directly, given his decision. —-Besides, I've waited 45 million years. I don't think a few more will hurt me — I laughed a little, but the cough swallowed it all up and made me spit out a little blood. My friend patted me lightly on the back to get it all out and then rubbed my back in circles.

I took a deep breath and focused on the beautiful stars that adorned the night. Apparently, there was no other light other than the stars. That's why they could be seen so close. The demon's eye was decorated with these same lights. I longed to return to the camp and look at them better. Maybe I could convince him to sing his famous lullabies.

—Hey, Bill— I got his attention. He hummed a yes in response. —Thanks...

—Why? — he said, a little confused by the unexpected thanks. I didn't even think about it. Bill had helped me this summer. I had to do it, right?

—For everything— my voice broke. As I blinked, a few hot tears trickled down my cheeks. The demon laughed fondly, wiping them away with his thumb.

—You're welcome, Pines

Chapter Text

A year had passed since I arrived in Gravity Falls for a "calm" vacation. A year had passed since I got stuck with the all-seeing triangle in an indestructible tie. A year since I caused a revolution in the town and almost came to the end of my life.

A year... a year... a year...

What had happened for a whole year?

Well, things were very different during that time. After the creatures took over the town, they created a much more organized civilization than the previous one. Although, like every society, they always had flaws. But those are just details...

I must also highlight their good economic management. Everything was paid for through barter, depending on the value of your item. The only ones who didn't accept barter at the town fair were the gnomes, goblins, and unicorns. They were greedier and needed gold coins to pay. Or, in the case of the gnomes, something more illegal...

Half of the former citizens stayed behind, living deep in the forest, taking the place of the beasts. Most tried to threaten the creatures with any method that included killing and collecting their heads. I once ran into Wendy's dad; I had fallen into one of his bear traps. for my good luck,  He'd mistaken me for a deer, but let me go because he didn't recognize me with the mask I was wearing.

The other half of the town was able to move to other towns near Gravity Falls, trying to escape the chaos we caused. Bill and I read in a newspaper that most had stayed in Moral Town, a religious town, begging the town's reverend or priest to bless them and give them several sections of confession.

My family stayed here in Gravity Falls, abandoning the Mystery Shack. The reason: to torment me and devise a plan to stop us both. How adorable. They tried to take my sister home, but the last buses were crushed by giants and devoured by giant bugs. When the bus companies found out, they didn't want to put their workers in danger, so they decided to cancel all trips to Gravity Falls and close the bus line there. So yes, my sister was trapped here, which doesn't worry me because... did she want to stay here or not?

Rumors say the Pines family is forming a Star Wars-style rebellion to take back the town, stop us, and return everything to its strange normal. Guess who's leading them? Yes, the author himself. Who would have thought the phrase "don't meet your idols" would be so true?

The author wants my head and Bill dead. And I don't blame him; we did terrible things to deserve it. But at least I ask that you draw us well on your wanted posters! I look like those 90s yaoi manga characters that Mabel and her friends read so much! And let's not even get started on how grotesque Bill looks!

While the eighth and a half President of the United States, Quentin Trembley, wanted to return as second-in-command of the new Gravity Falls, Bill and I moved into the Mystery Shack.

After my family left without a trace, we had high hopes of being able to rebuild the portal if we moved here. Luckily, Bill knew the instructions by memory and was good at calculations. Adding to that, we kept my Uncle Ford's important things and the three journals. (I still can't believe there are three volumes of this!!) It was difficult at first; I struggled to understand all those advanced calculations, but with the cheerleading of my omnipotent friend and 20 cups of coffee, boom! I became a human calculator.

We had 70% of the calculations figured out. We only needed the portal materials to rebuild it. So we ventured into the depths and outskirts of Oregon County to find everything we needed. Bill longed to find a magical force powerful enough to make it work. Electricity as a power source is 100% out of the question; the Mothman himself came to our house to complain about the blackout we caused.

But who said we didn't have fun? It was a pretty fun and peculiar experience living with Bill for a whole year. We played pranks on each other a lot, we played games, I had to take dance lessons, and we burned down the house because I couldn't cook well. But the best part was having a friend around.

Yeah, I guess this year wasn't so bad for us.

—” Happy birthday to you! Happy birthday to you! Happy birthday, dear Pinetree! Happy birthday to you! — the demon sang, floating down to where I was, on the small terrace on the shack's roof. He had a small muffin with white frosting and rainbow sprinkles on a plate. It had a blue candle bigger than the muffin. Yes, it was already August 31st, my 14th birthday.

—Aww, Bill, you shouldn't have to.... — I chuckled. He took the mortal festivities pretty seriously—because if you hadn't, I wouldn't be burned fingers—I glared at him as I showed him my fingers covered in Care Bear-themed bandages.

—Sorry, Pinetree!—he pouted, making his signature crybaby face—I just couldn't resist! The warm flames of the fire tickle your fingers and burn the fingertips like marshmallows. It's a rewarding experience!

—Rewardingly painful—I crossed my arms, mental note: demand a good excuse to possess my body. —Although...—I paused to run my finger through the muffin's frosting and taste it—the consistency of the frosting isn't that bad—let's just say I've become an expert critic when it comes to tasting birthday cakes.

—Aww! Come here, dumbass! —he exclaimed, hugging me so hard that he lifted me off the ground with all the strength he had. I wanted to hug him back, but Bill held me so tight I couldn't breathe. It was one of those Cipher hugs where he takes your breath away, either on purpose or by accident.

—Oh, I almost forgot! —He immediately let me go and started searching for something in his tiny hat while I gasped for air. He gasped with happiness when he found it and thrust it into my band-aid-covered hands. It was a small navy blue box with a white ribbon.

I shuddered a little as I held the box. —Please don't let it be a head that screams all the time, Bill. I really appreciate the gesture, but I refuse to release another screaming head into nature. —I reminded him of the first Christmas we had spent together.

—I was in a hurry last year, okay? Besides, I'm offended that you released my gift into the woods—I was about to argue, but we were going back to the head debate again. I opened the box to find a silver chain necklace with a silver pendant of a triangle with a single eye, very similar to it, and a pine tree like the symbol on my old cap.

—It represents our bond— he explained. —We're both connected, which isn't a bad thing. Besides, it matches the cute wool bracelet you made me —The demon rolled up his white shirtsleeves to reveal a poorly made pastel blue wool bracelet with a pine tree charm in the middle. I was really bored and wanted to focus on something other than math. I spent an hour and a half making it, only to end up making a complete mess. Bill said it was love at first sight when I showed it to him and asked if he could keep it. I can't believe he still has that thing."

—I promise you, when I get better at crafts, I'll make you a much better one— Bill laughed at my embarrassed, flushed face. He stood behind me to put the necklace around my neck.

—There! Officially 14! Welcome to the club, Pinetree! — he celebrated, ruffling my messy brown hair affectionately. —How does it feel, young Pines? — He started playing interviewer and interviewee.

Obviously, I played along. —It feels good... but it'll be even better when I turn 15 and I will be older than you! — I punched him in the shoulder, and Bill burst out laughing.

—Aww, Pinetree, don't make me laugh— the demon rolled up the little devil, pretended to wipe away a fake tear. —I'm going to get back in shape before you turn 15. I refuse to let you be older than me!

I kept begging Bill to reconsider, but he continued to refuse. We sat on the edge of the cabin's roof to watch the beautiful sunset turn the sky orange. —Come on, Bill! I really want to call you 'Little Dorito' or 'Little Devil' and show you off every day!

—I'm sorry, Pinetree, but you'll always be my little Pinetree until your dying days. End of discussion — I sighed. I really wished I were older than Bill by a year so I could get my sweet revenge.

My frustration subsided as I felt the cool wind blow against my face and stir my unruly brown curls. I love this life. It's not perfect, but I'm glad I can feel this way, free, happy, loved, and accepted. If this were a dream, I'd go crazy. Sometimes I wonder what would have happened if I had never made that deal with Bill?

R’N HLIIB...R’N HLIIB….R’N HLIIB

How strange, that shiver again. I should talk to Bill about this. I hope these shivers and those distorted voices I sometimes hear aren't anything serious.

—Dipper?

I turned to look at Bill, noticing his slight concern. He was using the binoculars we had bought at the fair. —Is something wrong, Bill? —I asked.

—Oh, nothing... It's just... we're just finishing up summer. Don't you think it's a bit early for snow at the beginning of September?

—Snow? — Bill handed me the binoculars to look at. My eyes widened at what Bill was pointing out. In a remote part of the forest, safely at Unicorn Falls, it was snowing. But not as it biologically should snow; it looked as if a preschooler had painted a map of Gravity Falls Forest in blue. From afar, the leaves on the trees could be seen turning from a summery green to a wintery blue, turning the leaves into frost. The grass was now snow, and the waterfall was completely frozen, as if it had been paused for a moment. It was strangely unbelievable.

All I could think was one thing—what the Fu-

Bill and Dipper will return in Bad End Friends: The Fork, the Crown and the Lantern