Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"Can you actually believe this?" Pony gaped at the newspaper he was holding, "The price of carrots just skyrocketed!" He sets down the newspaper, then looks up at you and turns to Zizzy.

Zizzy playfully rolls her eyes, crossing her arms across her chest. Her head tilts, a smirk appearing on her lips as she regards Pony's worries, "Hmm... What about growing a carrot garden?"

His eyes grow slightly wider, his cheeks flushing as his attention shifts back to the newspaper laying on the table, "On second thought," he brings the paper closer to his face to cover his embarrassment, "maybe the price isn't that bad.."

You chuckle at Pony, picking up a random newspaper and scanning the content, "What? Are you too lazy to grow your own garden? Don't expect me to always get you carrots."

Pony's head snaps towards you, his eyes narrowing. "Of course not! I won't have enough time to manage the carrot garden. Plus, these conditions we are living in is no place for a garden."

"Fair point." Zizzy adds as she thinks about the situation currently going on in Evalia. 

To be fair, the whole country is infested with the infected. They currently reside in a snowy place, the soil not having nutrients to grow anything. Also, there isn't enough room in Kona's laboratory to house an indoor garden. Meaning, that they will have to wait months to be able to grow the carrot garden. It is an unfortunate situation they are in. 

"Hey! I'm playing with the robot!"

"Nuh uh! It's my turn, Zuzy!"

"Kids! Stop harassing Robby." Giraffy exclaims. He's currently sitting on the couch next to Zee, helping her color. Georgie and Zuzy are both fighting for Robby's attention. The two children pulling on the robots hands. "Zizzy! Help out here, will you?"

She let's out an irritated huff, already making her way towards the two children and the robot.

Zizzy grabs both Georgie and Zuzy's wrists, pulling the pair off of the poor robot. Immediately, Robby goes towards Kona, hiding behind him. 

"So," Pony starts, looking back towards you and placing the papers he's holding down. He lets out a tired sigh, leaning back on the chair and taking his glasses off. His hand moves to pinch the bridge of his nose, "How are you feeling, Player? After, well, you know who."

"To be honest, I'm feeling good." You respond with a shrug, gathering the papers sprawled out on the table and placing them in a neat stack. 

"Really, you sure? You know you can tell me anything."

"Yeah.. I know," your gaze turns towards Kona and Mimi, Robby hiding besides Kona, a small smile forms on your lips. "Just tired, you know? And, I guess, I'm worried about everything."

Pony regards you with a sympathetic smile, "Yeah, I understand. After everything we've been through, we really need a rest."

"Pony, Player— we need a little help here!" Kona yelps as he is being tackled by the twins. 

"Gotcha! Beat that gramps— Georgie, get Robby now that Kona is on the floor!" Zuzy exclaimed as she and Zee held Kona down. 

"Gramps? Dude, I'm in my mid thirties!"

"Yeah, mid-1930's."

"Oh my" Mimi murmurs, slowly backing away from the children. 

"If we can't be with Robby, you can't either!"

"Georgie, Zuzy, and Zee. Stop it right now." You get up and walk towards the group, Pony following behind. 

"Children, it's time for bed. Go upstairs and get ready." Zizzy walks up to the twins, easily pulling them up from Kona. She drags them upstairs, nodding her head to Georgie. He obeys and follows them. 

"Phew! I thought I would've died." Kona sits up and shivers, Robby coming up to help him off of the floor. "Welp, I guess we should go rest for tomorrow. Goodnight everyone!"

"Goodnight."

One week after

"So, I'll need some metal scraps. Remember— the bigger, the better!"

"Yeah, yeah, we heard you, Kona." You continue to write down the list of items you'll need to retrieve on this expedition. Luckily, this time, it's not a big list.

Things to get

• Soil (To know if it's ready to plant stuff) 
• Food
• Metal scraps (For Kona) 
• Wood (To make items, such as weapons)
• Flowers (To decorate the Zee's and Zuzy's room) 

"If you forget it, I'll send Robby after you guys!"

The walk to the nearest town was long. You, Pony, and Zizzy walked through the throngs of snow. The white-powdered ground made a satisfying crunch as you guys walked across it. The sky was dull— no clouds or sun in sight.

You had a messenger bag slung across your body. In it were carrots for Pony, grass for Zizzy, and apples for you. You had taken a few apples from Georgie's stack since, other than carrots, they're edible for you. You also had some pocket knifes and extra bags for the items you'll be fetching. Zizzy held her fencing sword in her right hand, swinging it through the air. Pony held his wooden sword in both hands, his eyes darting nervously around the open field. Luckily, you guys haven't run into any infected— but you shouldn't keep your guard down. 

"We will be nearing the town in about 5 minutes." Zizzy spoke through a cloud of breath. She reached for a pocket knife on the side of her pants, twirling it in between her fingers. 

"Mhm. Remember guys, the infected could be lurking around the town," Pony spoke up, his nerdy voice cutting through the snow, "so keep a weapon in hand."

"Pony, no fucking shit."

"Sorry."

Your head turned down toward your bag, opening it and pulling out a pocket knife. 

"So, I was wondering..."

Pony started, but you tuned out his voice as he began rambling to Zizzy about getting permission from her sisters for something. To be honest, his voice is annoying so. 

Ouch.

Abruptly, you feel a throb in your head. 

A constant beating like someone has shot you in the heart. 

A shiver goes through you. 

Instantly you sense someone– no– something watching you. 

What doesn't surprise you is that you've been experiencing this everytime you go out on a supply run. 

It's nothing new. 

Only this time it is a new sensation. 

It feels much more dangerous.

You should be aware of your surroundings. 

After four hours of gathering items and supplies, the three of you began to grow weary. Pony had taken three, ten minute breaks in under an hour. Zizzy had been hauling her ass carrying both the bags with items and Pony on her back. Meanwhile you carried three bags, counting your messenger bag, holding Pony's wooden sword, and your pocket knife, you started to feel a bit nauseous. 

Damn, you thought as pain crept in your head, Pony is such a sissy. Is he even a man? Does he secretly want to get peg–

"I think they'll agree with or without a bribe."

"You really think so?"

"Pony, I mean it. They enjoy your presence." Zizzy let out a sigh, her grip tightening as she held onto Pony's ankles. 

"You sound hesitant, are you sure?" You smirked, inserting yourself in the conversation. "Zee kind of hates Pony."

"What? No way— how could she?" Pony cried out. It was pathetic of him, really. What's so sad is that Pony will let anything get to his head. You're still not sure what they've discussed about. All you know is that Pony needs permission from the twins— maybe using a bribe to win them over. But why? Why would he–

"Why is it so hard to get on your sister's good side?" 

"Not sure, dear. They kind of have the same thoughts and opinions. I think you should get on Zuzy's good side before we go announcing that we're together."

Oh. That's why. 

Yeah... Forgot they are together. 

Oops. 

You let out a sigh, your stomach twisting and turning into knots as your condition worsens. You can't figure out if its the cold weather making you sick, how long you've been walking, or that you haven't eaten an actual meal. Maybe all three. But, nonetheless, your stomach hurts like a bitch. 

Up ahead there is a tree stump. Slugging your way toward it, you dropped the bags and sat down on the stump. "Guys, can we take a rest?"

Zizzy stopped next to you, already setting Pony and her bags down. 

"No."

"Shut the fuck up Pony, this is my first rest compared to your fifth."

"Sorry."

You rolled your eyes, a little huff escaping your nose. You leaned back on your hands, head tilted to stare at the gray sky.

"Whatever. My head and stomach are starting to hurt."

Zizzy's eyes softened at your soft voice. It was pathetic really. You always prided yourself with being strong— not wanting to show any weakness to anyone. But in rough times like these, you allowed your walls to crumble.

"Sadly I didn't carry any pills with us."

"It's okay, Zizzy. Let me just rest for some time then we can get back to moving, yeah?"

"Okay," she smiled at you, kneeling down and grabbing a wad of grass to eat. 

"Hey, can you pass me some carrots?"

"No. Go do something useful and I'll give you some."

"Huh?"

Despite her stern words, she reluctantly handed a bundle of carrots to Pony. He smiled as he grabbed the carrots and began to eat one. 

"We'll just stay here until Player feels good enough to continue moving." Zizzy sighed, finally allowing herself to rest. She sat down on a log, right next to Pony as she rest her head on his shoulder. 

Your eyes fluttered shut, heart slowly pounding as you were engulfed into sleep. 

After what seemed like an hour, you slowly began to drift back into consciousness. The first thing you noticed was the dark, gray sky. Huh. What time is it? I could've sworn I wasn't our for more than an hour. 

Slowly, you sat up, groaning as your joints popped. You rubbed your eyes as you fully drifted back to consciousness. It was way colder than before, and not to mention darker. 

The first thing you noticed when you sat up was the lack of your friends presences. 

Hmm? Where did they go? 

CRUNCH. 

Huh? What is that–

CRUNCH. 

"Pony? Zizzy?"

"Player?"

Huh? That doesn't sound like them. It sounds like–

"Oh my God— it really is you!"

What? It can't be—

"I– we thought we would never see you again!"

Huh...? 

"Ever since you left us behind."

Wait. What? 

"But it's okay! We're not angry or anything, just relieved to see you again!"

"Doggy?" Your eyes widened as you finally recognized his voice. You couldn't believe it. How was he here? You left him back in Lucella— there's no possible way for him to find you this quick–

"Gosh, Player, how are you holding up? I'm doing way better right now. Ever since Doggy found me–"

"Bunny!?" Tears began to form in your eyes. No way. It can't be.. How... 

"I was lucky to also find–"

"Officer Poley!?"

There they were, standing in front of you. Only five feet away. Doggy stood in front of the two— his dark purple shirt, only donning a few holes, and ripped jeans. Bunny, to his right, was wearing her cute overalls and a black eye patch over her right eye. And Officer Poley, standing to Doggy's left. He looked the same, which was funny to you. Despite everything, he hasn't changed. 

Your heart began to thump loudly. A mixture of pain, relief, and sorrow suddenly hitting you like a harsh smack to the face. Your three old friends were currently standing in front of you, un-infected. But how? 

How are they-

"We've managed to follow you. Officer Poley knew that you most likely wanted to go to the camp, so he suggested that we head over there, too!"

"Yeah," Bunny spoke up, her lips curling into a cute smile, "The military people helped us. What was that guys' name?"

"Sgt. Monroe?" Your voice was laced with desperation. 

"Yeah! That guy. He was nice."

"Okay— cool— I'm happy to see you three." You muttered as you took a few steps back. Your eyes were wide, as if you saw something traumatic. That, you were. Because, how could your friends who are, or where, infected be here? It doesn't make sense! 

"Sure seems like it." Poley muttered, his voice hinted with a playfulness that didn't quite reach his face. His eyes gleamed with amusement, as if they didn't succumb to the infection. As if he didn't hurt Zizzy–

"I-I truly am!" Your hand unconsciously drifted to your jacket's pockets, fingers tightly holding onto the blade of your pocket knife. Sweat started to form under your hairline. 

"You don't seem okay? Are you ill?" Doggy asked, sincerity in his voice as he stepped toward you. 

You panicked, drawing out your weapon and flicking it open. You held it in front of you. 

Doggy's, Bunny's, and Poley's eyes widened in shock and confusion. Bunny's eyebrows furrowed in confusion and hurt. Poley lifted up a singular eyebrow. And Doggy stopped in his tracks and held his hands up. 

"Woah, woah, woah Player! Is this how you treat old friends? Why so hostile?"

"What do you mean? You guys are supposed to be infected! By that substance 128! Doggy— you got infected back in the forest, Bunny drank it, and I'm not quite sure about you Poley. But–"

"What do you mean? None of that happened."

"W-what?"

"We didn't get infected. You left us behind."

You let out a snort, lacking of any amusement. "What— I left you guys behind? What are you talking about? You three got infected."

"Yeah, but here we are. Un-infected. We got cured Player, why aren't you glad?" Poley asked, his head tilted to the side as he tried to assess you. 

Your heart is pounding, head throbbing as you tried to make sense of such situation. Your body feels both heavy and light— sweat trickling down your face as you stare at your unarmed friends. What could've actually happened to them? There is no possible answer for them to be fine. There was only one cure! And you gave the cure to the military. It's impossible for them to already mass produce it. Plus, the journey to the camp would take weeks—

"Oh. I see. We see. You weren't expecting us to come and find you, were you?" Doggy speaks, his eyes dark and full of hurt. 

"What?"

"The reason why you left us was because you wanted to get away from us. To leave us behind— isn't that right?"

"No— Doggy, guys, listen! It's just– impossible for how you guys–"

"You left me behind in the forest," Doggy starts, his voice slowly growing louder, "You were running around, avoiding me, and when I was near the Watchtower and the door was open, you fled the scene without warning!"

"You left me behind in the metro!" Bunny added, her eyes narrowing in disdain. . 

"You just left me." Poley stated. 

Doggy stepped forward until both of you were just an inch away. He lifted a finger up to your chest, pressing it down as he stared at you with hatred in his eyes. "You abandoned us for your new friends. I was your day one, Player."

"I-I.. Doggy–" You began, tears already forming in your eyes as you desperately stared at your friends. "I don't know what to say. I don't know how I can explain myself."

"Don't. You've said and done enough for us to realize what we truly meant to you."

Your eyes widened in shock and pain. Acting on instinct, you grabbed Doggy's hand and looked deeply into his eyes. Your heart ached, you regretted everything despite knowing that they were, at the time, infected. Your chest heaved as you tried to calm yourself down. 

"I'm so, so sorry! I didn't mean to abandon any of you. I would never leave you guys without a reason–"

"There was a reason to leave us?"

"No! Fuck..." You pulled away, arms dropping besides you. 

"Player? We're back–"

"Holy shit! No fucking way!"

"Pony, Zizzy!?" Your head whipped when you hear the familiar, yet grounding voices of your friends. There they stood— eyes wide in shock and confusion, arms full of metal scraps and food. Pony looked like he'd seen a ghost. The color of his face faded to a dull orange as he gaped at you and Doggy. Zizzy dropped her items and pulled out her fencing sword, holding it in front of her and pointing it toward the group of unknown animals. 

"What are you doing to Player? Hey— that officer was the one who attacked me at The Refinery!" She exclaimed, her eyes narrowing as she slowly walked toward Poley. 

"Woah! Hey, hey, hey–"

"Shut up."

"Woah, Zizzy is so cool!"

"Shut up Pony!"

"Yes ma'am."

You stared at Zizzy slowly, but surely, getting closer to Poley. Your heart heated in conflict, not knowing what to do. Either step in and help Poley, or do nothing and just stare at them. Rationally, you pushed Doggy aside and walked toward Zizzy.

Standing near the two, you gently pushed Zizzy away, "Zizzy calm down. I'm just as confused and conflicted about this whole situation."

"Yeah but— he was infected back at the Refinery. I don't understand how he turned back." Zizzy's eyebrow arched, her head tilting to the side as she tried to make sense of everything. 

"Player left us. Who knows, maybe they'll leave you too." Your eyebrows shot up as you heard Bunny's soft but malicious voice cut through the tension. 

Your heart dropped as she spoke. 

Both Pony and Zizzy turned to look at you. 

Pony's eyes widened, a look of betrayal flashing through his face. 

Zizzy's eyes narrowed, "Oh really? Well it does make sense— knowing how they've only brought trouble."

Now it's your turn to look shocked. Your heart drops, hands turning clammy. 

Pony's face contorts to disdain, "Player has always been suspicious. I mean— they are the only human on this forsaken land. Believe it or not, the only reason Player had stuck around was because we needed to get the cure."

"Wait. What?"

"The only reason why we kept you around was to help find the cure. If you weren't of any use to us, we would've left you back at the Carnival." Zizzy's voice shot a hole through your heart. 

"I should've infected you too back at the forest." Pony reveals, muttering his words that are filled with remorse. 

"What the fuck are you saying, Pony?" Your head tilts to the side, eyes narrowed in offense and hurt. 

"I bet if you were infected, you wouldn't have left us behind." Doggy spoke up, moving closer toward you. 

"You're selfish, Player. You only ever think of yourself. You used me to escape the forest and used Bunny to flee the metro." Your heart clenched as you hear his statement. 

Poley backs away from you, "You leave people once they are of no use to you."

"You left me while an infected was running around. Left me to die!"

"Player, I can't believe we thought you were a reliable person— as a friend!"

"You're the poorest excuse as a cop!"

"You don't even deserve that title."

Suddenly, you feel a sharp pain in your lower abdomen.

Behind you stood Poley, a cold hand rested on your shoulder as he held onto a knife that pierced through your stomach. 

But that wasn't what surprised you the most.

No.

It was the fact you bled out black instead of red. 

Chapter Text

"I'm sorry that happened to you, Player."

"It's okay. I won't take it to heart. It's not your fault, Poley"

"Yeah but— you got hurt. And it is my fault because I didn't train you well."

"Sure I almost got stabbed in the stomach, but I ended up okay."

Poley sighs, his shoulders slumping in defeat. He turns to look away, as if he was ashamed to stare at your direction. 

You smiled, smacking his shoulder, “Come on! I knew what I was signing up for. Doggy told me.”

“I know, I know. Forget it; want to get donuts?”

“And coffee? Count me in!”

Why were you remembering that all of a sudden? 

Out of all things— it was that specific memory of Poley and you. 

After a job that went sideways, almost resulting in you getting stabbed in the gut. 

You tentatively opened your eyes as your consciousness slowly willed you awake. The sky was dark. The pitch black enveloped you. The only noise to be heard, sans your heartbeat, was a water stream. In a way it was calming. Your body was numb and cold as you laid flat on your back. You couldn't move a muscle. It was as if your body didn't belong to you. 

What time is it? Where am I? 

As if sensing your oncoming panic, your body finally came back to you, which allowed you to sit up.

The room remained dark, you couldn't see a thing. The ground beneath you had a slime-like appearance. You lifted your right hand up, watching as the black liquid dripped down your hand. It was somewhat sticky, almost like glue, but more watered down. 

Finally gaining strength, you stood up with a groan. The black liquid rippled around your feet. It seemed that it was sticking to you. Hanging on to your legs, as if it didn't want to let go. 

You felt disoriented. Your head was pounding, body protesting. 

Looking around the empty, dark room you decide to walk. Where to be exact? You weren't sure. The room appeared to have no walls, meaning no end. 

How did you end up here? 

Is this punishment for how you treated Pony–

Nah. 

With a heavy sigh, your legs finally granted you the power to move. 

The sounds of ripples bounced off the nonexistent walls— as if you were stuck in a box. Surprisingly your clothes weren't wet, despite laying down in the black liquid.

Your breath was stuttering, as if you had just ran a marathon. You wrapped your arms around yourself, due to the area being cold. Your mind was reeling as you tried your best to remember how you ended up in this situation. 

Zizzy, Pony, and you all went to gather resources for Kona. 

Right? Honestly, you couldn't believe it if it did happen. Your mind was scattered, numb as if you didn't have a brain. You were with them… you swear—

Ouch! 

You blinked, taken aback by the sudden wall you ran into. 

What the? Why's there a wall?

Hands reaching out to touch the wall— placing your palms to it. It was cold. Or were you the one who was cold? 

Nonetheless you walked to the side whilst keeping your hands on the wall. Until you reached the end of the…? 

You felt the corner of the two walls— so that means you're trapped in a room. 

But why? Did you somehow die on the supply run? But what about Zizzy and Pony? What happened to them? 

As you continue to walk around the pitch black room, a faint smell starts to fill your nose. As if something was being burnt. But nothing around you was on fire. 

But then, as if you willed it because of your tired body, a plain, red sofa appeared in the middle of the room. In front of it was a small, circular wooden table. 

What the fuck? 

But before you knew it, you were right in front of the set up. Sitting down on the couch. It was soft and comfy. A small smile appeared on your lips as you slowly laid down on the couch. Eyes growing heavy, they started to close, sleep taking you away. 

The last thing you saw before closing your eyes were dark, purple swirls.

꒷︶꒷꒥꒷‧₊˚꒷︶꒷꒥꒷‧₊˚꒷︶꒷꒥꒷‧₊˚꒷︶꒷꒥꒷‧₊˚꒷︶꒷꒥꒷‧₊˚꒷︶꒷꒥꒷‧₊°

Ah, there they are— the heroes of Evalia. 

A happy group

A zebra wearing a purple dress and a feathered hat. Very skillful with her fencing sword. So skillful that she was able to knock down an entire army of infected soldiers. Impressive. She has always displayed loyalty and protectiveness over her group. She's one of the bravest animals I’ve ever had the misfortune of encountering. Such a shame that her skills aren't being used to the fullest potential. 

In contrast to a horse— technically a pony— named… Pony? 

Wow, what an original name. 

His taste in fashion is quite peculiar… just like himself as he is a coward, has no backbone, is insecure, a leech, and guilt-ridden

Not to mention, glutinous! Not being able to do anything without a carrot is nefarious work. 

First of all, he needed a carrot to remove a singular wooden board to access his own shelter. In the outpost, he needed one to knock out Torcher, meanwhile his friend over here didn't need shit to face an entire army. She was moving around the place while he stood still and waited for Player to do everything. 

I’ll give it to him though— he was able to defend Player in the camp, albeit with a weapon from his ex-boss. But Willow was doing the same thing, sans her weapon, so... 

He's quite useless— done nothing to help Zizzy and Player out. 

Oh Player… 

My sweet, heroic, clever Player. The human who has done no wrong. Could never betray their allies. Very loyal and loving— a bit too loving. They were able to let someone who had hurt them deep into their heart. 

And yet… the same hasn't been done for yours truly. 

How could this be? I offer more benefits than that emotional horse or any other animal! 

Infinite power. I can even bring back their faltered friends.

But they won't give me a chance— no one will. 

I wonder how he was able to do it. 

That traitor…

꒷︶꒷꒥꒷‧₊˚꒷︶꒷꒥꒷‧₊˚꒷︶꒷꒥꒷‧₊˚꒷︶꒷꒥꒷‧₊˚꒷︶꒷꒥꒷‧₊˚꒷︶꒷꒥꒷‧₊˚

"... It's not over. They should've known I won't give up, especially when–”

His voice fades into a hushed whisper.Your eyes slowly open up, a blurry image of the same swirls you saw earlier. But this time it seems that they've increased. Before you stood a man-like figure. He donned on a purple suit with a dark purple top hat. 

You've seen him before, haven't you?

Slowly sitting up, and rubbing your eyes for clarity, the full view of the man appeared. And, for a dramatic effect, he slowly turned towards you. 

“Greetings Player, we meet again.” he darkly smiled. His eyes narrowed at the sight of you, frustration passing through his ugly features. He outstretched his hand towards you, his smile, not reaching his eyes, widens. 

A small gasp escapes your lips as you finally come to realize. 

His presence commands attention the moment he turns to see you. The first thing that catches your attention is his eyes, specifically the eye patch over his left eye. His whole face is covered by a hay bag, a black top hat over his head. He stands tall and imposing, his body made entirely of dark, shifting shadows. He smiled, no warmth or in his whole expression. His eyes narrow and honed on you. 

Your eyes widen, body going cold as you recall your first interaction with the mysterious man. Opening your mouth to respond, he cuts you off with a hand held out to you. 

“I'll cut to the chase– I've been observing you after you and your… team have defeated me.” TIO's voice was full of disdain, dropping his hand down to curl it into a fist. With a deep breath, he turned his back towards you, “But alas! I'm back and better than ever..” His voice shifted to a sweet, song-like tone. 

Standing up, the furniture disappeared into a circular stone platform. 

“How are you still here? I've defeated you– we've put a stop to you and your schemes—”

“And yet here I am, standing right in front of you,” his face suddenly appeared inches away from yours, making you lean back a bit. “My dear.” 

His hand reached up to gently brush a hair away from your face, his lips forming into a smug smirk as your eyes narrowed. 

This guy was playing with you! Knowing what to do, how to act to make you irritated. 

Pulling away, he leaned onto a nonexistent item. “As I was saying; I've grown fond of you and your abilities. You're no ordinary human, Player.”

“What are you saying? Of course I'm not an ordinary person! I was partners with a fucking doberman and polar bear.” Unbeknownst to you, tears began to form. 

“Exactly!” His smile widened, as if he was remembering something precious to him. 

You stepped forward, brushing away tears from your eyes, “And you were the one to take them away from me!”

“Woah, woah, woah. I wasn't the one to infect your dearest coworkers, now was I?” A cruel, cold giggle escapes his mouth as he stares at you in amusement, “No, no, no. If I recall correctly it was actually your trusted friend, that horse–”

You cut him off, eyes narrowing, “You mean Pony?” 

TIO's face turned neutral, “Oh yeah. Him.”

“And? He apologized! Plus the military is on the path to mass produce the cure.”

“Oh are they now? How interesting.. Last time I checked up on them, they'd disposed of it. Per my commands."

Your eyes widened at the revelation, dread filling your mind. This couldn't be, right? There is no way the military did such a thing. If you recall, they seemed quite relieved at the sight of the cure. Why would they dispose of it? 

“They did… the military realized that the cure was a problem. Once I was able to make them see my way, they followed through.” TIO's eyes glimmered with amusement as he swiftly moved closer to you. Standing right in front of you, he tilted your chin with a gloved finger. “Don't you see, Player? Even if the cure was mass produced and distributed all across Evalia— what will happen then? Will life, as you once knew it, go back to normal? How, pray tell, will the continent be rebuilt?”

You're at a loss for words. One thing you wouldn't like to admit is that he's right. Even if everyone is saved, what will happen? Would their world go back to normal? Would everyone be able to return to their normal lives? What about the other countries in this pathetic world? Will they come with aid to help rebuild Evalia— did they even know that an apocalypse was currently happening? 

TIO smiles when he realizes you're lost in thought. He drops his hand from your face as he grabs your hand and interlaces your fingers with his. “My, my. I didn't want you to be at a loss for words, my dear. I just wanted to remind you of the logistics.”

Being able to feel a sudden slimy, coldness seep through your hand, you wretch it away. Stepping back, and holding the hand that was held by him, up to your chest, your face contorts into disbelief. “‘Logistics’ my ass, dude! What games are you playing?”

He smirks, allowing you to be free. He holds out his hands in a surrendering motion. “No games, I assure you. I'm making you realize that Evalia, a continent loved by many, is doomed. Think of it, a small vial of solution can't possibly cure millions of animals, can it?” He turns his back to you, hands clasped behind his back. “No, it can not. I believe the only way the world can revert back is by another being.. such as yours truly.”

Your voice falters as you speak, head falling, “I guess you're right. And especially since you push the idea of the cure being destroyed.”

TIO turns to face you again, “Of course I'm right. But this is where you come in, Player.”

“What do you mean?" Your head snaps back up to him, eyes wide with curiosity and hesitation.

“You see, no ordinary person or animal can cure everyone. Plus, your friends are far too gone— remember that pig you first saw at the Piggy's residence?"

“Penny?” as you spoke, your voice was weak and soft. The moment you saw her at the Lab, your heart broke. She looked utterly destroyed, her left side completely deteriorated. That wasn't the Penny Georgie knew, the loving, older sister who would have sacrificed anything for him. That statement did come true when the infection came around. But no, it was a completely different version of her. 

“Yup, do you remember how destroyed she looked? The infection had completely taken over her.” He frowned, devoid of actual emotions, “and it was all because of free will. Mr. P thought he could save his wife, which resulted in all this.” He swooped his hand in front of him, motioning towards you. 

“Stop it! Sure he was the one to start it, but he had good intentions.” You turned to face away, Mr. P truly had good intentions. But somehow, one thing turned into another. 

“This is getting boring— let's cut to the chase.” TIO walked towards you, cupping your chin. “I want you to join me.” He began to circle you, still keeping your chin cupped, “we can't continue this game of hawk and mice.”

“‘Hawk?’”

“Yes, my dearest Player. For I am on the top of the hierarchy. No one can or will threaten me.” TIO stopped behind you, placing both his hands on your shoulders. “While you are at the bottom, human.”

You kept your eyes honed onto nothing. Staring at the darkness in front of you. 

“As I was saying, I want to make a deal with you. A favor for a favor.”

You remained silent, not wanting to give in to him. 

“I'll do something for you, and in return, you'll do something for me.” TIO walked back to his spot, right in front of you. Even for a man devoid of emotions, he seems to really take a liking to you. “Let's say I revert this world back to before the infection. I make sure Mrs. P is healthy, causing Mr. P to not go crazy and cause all this madness.”

He stepped back, snapping his fingers which caused your friends to appear right behind him, Poley and Doggy. But they appeared to be decaying, an arm torn apart to reveal bones, a leg snapped in a grotesque manner, a bone sticking out from the knee, and eyeballs either missing or threatening to fall. “Your friends since the beginning,” then appeared Bunny next to them, who appeared just as destroyed as them, “and the one you made along the way.”

TIO began to pace in front of you, causing you to take a step back, “I can bring them back to their original selves. They might not be a lost cause if I have something to do with it.”

“That's how they look like?” your voice was filled with disbelief and hesitance as you whispered to yourself, “when I last saw them, they didn't appear to be that torn apart.”

He stood behind you, placing his left hand on your shoulder, using his right to point at the group, “That's how you last remembered them! Of course they look more horrifying. You're in denial.”

Maybe he's right. Because the last time you actually saw them— not an illusion— they looked fine. But that was a couple months ago. And who knows what could have happened during those long weeks, spent away from them. You had hoped that Doggy, Poley, and Bunny were okay. But seeing them like this is, well, uncanny. 

“As I was saying, you join me and I'll rebuild Evalia just for you.” Turning you to face him, he pinched your cheeks in a patronizing manner, “and in return you'll do something for me, sweet Player.”

With a snarl, you pushed him away and clenched your fists to your side, “What the hell dude? Get off!” Your hand rose and you pointed an accusing finger towards TIO, “I'm not some fucking thing for you to play with. I'm a human, unlike you.”

That last sentence was what broke him. In an instant he had you picked up, thrown against a wall, and pinned against it. It all happened so fast and sudden, your head was left reeling. His hand gripped your throat tighter, face mere inches away from yours. You sputtered, eyes wide with horror. 

When he spoke, his voice was low and dangerous, “Dare utter words like that and I'll make sure your living friends are no more.” With that, he stepped back, causing you to fall on the ground. 

You took a deep breath, desperately filling your lungs with air as you remained on the floor. You didn't dare to look up at the figure looming over you. Your whole body is filled with rage and fear, fists clenching. 

TIO wiped his gloved hand on his pants, his lips curling into a small snarl. He acted arrogantly— as if he was disgusted by touching you, “I may not be human or animal anymore, but please, my dear, don't remind me of what I've lost.”

Finally catching your breath, you slowly met his eyes, “What the hell dude? I thought you wanted me on your side.”

“Oh my! Sorry about that, I lost myself there for a moment.” TIO chuckled, his hand reaching out to grab yours and forcing you up. Immediately you pulled your hand away from his cold grip, eyes narrowing onto him. You rolled your eyes at him. 

He sighed, dragging his hand down his face, “Can we get back to what we were speaking about?” 

“I'm not going to accept your deal.” Your words were final, something that should've ended this whole interaction and brought you back to your friends. But TIO was nothing but stubborn and arrogant. 

He couldn't, wouldn't let you go that easy. “Think about it! Wouldn't you want to do it for them? Especially for the children: Georgie, Zee, and Zuzy. Wouldn't you love to know that they won't have to live in hiding anymore. Your group wouldn't be forced to risk their lives only to collect food and materials.”

He does have a point. Even if you don't want to realize that. 

What you hate about TIO is how right he can be. Despite everything, it's more rewarding to sacrifice yourself for the whole of Evalia. Besides, you don't belong in Evalia, do you? 

With a nod of your head, you reluctantly held out your hand. “Fine… but you can't hurt anyone. Save Evalia, return it back to its original state..”

“Consider it done, my dearest." With that, he eagerly grabbed your hand and aggressively shook it. 

The room spinned, portals on the wall contorting into unrecognizable shapes. TIO smiled sickeningly sweet towards you, his grip tightening on your fingers. The room turned cold, even colder before you entered it. You felt your body go numb— starting from the hand that was currently held by TIO'S, and slowly working up your arm and spreading throughout your body. 

Oddly, you felt calm. Even though this should've utterly terrified you, it made you feel indifferent. At least he couldn't hurt anyone. But, what left you to wonder is, what will TIO make you do to uphold your end of the deal?

The walk back to Kona's laboratory was puzzling. Player was missing. Nowhere to be found.

Just an hour ago they were resting at some random spot in the forest. Player was sick, Pony was tired, and Zizzy was exhausted after having to deal with Pony's nonsense. 

But when she woke up, Player was gone. No note left, nor a message before you disappeared. All that was left on the tree stump that you rested on? Your messenger bag with all the supplies inside. 

Zizzy's gaze dropped to the bag, gears shifting in her head, “Pony.. Wake up. Player's gone.” She nudged Pony's shoulder, trying to wake him while he laid his head on her shoulder. 

“What?” He sat up slowly, rubbing his eyes and feeling for his glasses nearby. “What do you mean Player is gone?”

She sighed, grabbing his glasses that fell onto the cloud of snow beneath them. Wiping the lenses clean on her dress, and handing it to her beloved. “I mean that they're gone. They're not here.. They even left their bag.”

Pony adjusted his glasses and groaned, “Oh fiddlesticks. Where did Player go?”

“Pony. What the fuck?”

“Sorry”

Zizzy got up, immediately scanning the area for any sign of Player. But she only saw fog that clouded her vision. The atmosphere was chilling— not a soul to be found. 

“Maybe Player was hurting so bad, they decided to leave early.” Pony suggested with a swoop of his arms, as if it was the most obvious thing. 

“Yeah, maybe.” Zizzy's arms stretched above her head, joints popping as she groaned. “Well, we better hope they went back to the lab and not wandered off anywhere.”

“Or any infected got to them!” Pony added with a slight tremor to his voice. He stood up, picking up your bag and slinging it over his shoulder. “I guess we better get going and hope they have returned.”

Once Kona's lab came into view, Zizzy began to sense an uneasy feeling in her stomach. Something she had never felt before— other than that one time when meeting up with other survivors. Her heart, slowly but surely, began to race as they neared the door. Two knocks in and Kona flung the door open, a smile gracing his lips. 

“Hey! Welcome back, got infected?”

“Thankfully not” replied Zizzy, nudging past the eager klipspringer. Pony followed behind, waking past Zizzy and immediately dropping face down on the sofa. At the muted thud, the children piped up and moved closer to bother the horse. Kona's eyes lingered onto the missing spot that you were supposed to fill in. 

Kona appeared right behind Zizzy as she opened and dumped all of the supplies they had gathered on a table. He arched an eyebrow, “Hey, didn't Player assist you guys? Where are they?”

Zizzy's eyes widened, head snapping towards Kona, “You mean– they aren't here?”

“What? Why would they be–”

She grabbed his shoulders tightly, the sudden grip as if she was trying to anchor herself. Her hands fisted into his red coat, slightly shaking him, “Player was gone when we woke up.”

Kona's eyes widened as they filled with visible worry, his head tilting to the side, “what do you mean when you guys woke up?”

Zizzy sighed, her eyebrows furrowing, “We took a rest because Player was feeling sick. Then when we woke up, they were gone! No note or any words. They even left their bag.”

On the other side of the room, Pony was being tackled by the children. Georgie was sitting on Pony's back, punching his shoulders lightly. The twins were pulling on his clothes, “What took you guys so long?” spoke Zuzy as she pulled his beanie off. 

“Player was feeling sick so we had to rest.” he muttered on the sofa cushion. His eyes were shut, trying to relieve his aching muscles

Georgie giggled, “Sure they were. You sure it wasn't you?”

“No–”

“Where are they?” Zuzy turned to look at her eldest sister, noticing only her and Kona.

“We don't know. Are they not here?”

“No.”

Shoot

Georgie sat up straight, disdain flooding through his body as he got off of Pony. He walked over to Zizzy, pulling at the hem of her dress, “Zizzy, where's Player?” His voice dropped from playfulness to a tone one will use when they've lost something very dear to them and they want it back. 

Her gaze dropped down to the child, he looked smaller than usual. Zizzy felt bad for him, he's lost his whole family, now Player? The one person he viewed as family. She tenderly cupped his cheek, brushing an errant tear, “They… I can't lie to you— we don't know. If they aren't here, then they must've gone deeper into the forest.”

“But without their bag?” Kona spoke up as his gaze swept across the items laid out onto the table. 

“That's what confuses me the most!” Zizzy turned towards Kona, her voice frantic and full of confusion. She stepped closer to him, placing her hands on the table as she leaned over it, “Why would they go anywhere without their bag? The bag had food and supplies to fend off. It doesn't make sense.”

Robby appeared behind the two— Zee sitting on his shoulders as Zuzy hung off his arm, “Where is the one that is known as Player?”

“Gone.” Both the zebra and kipslinger spoke in unison. 

Kona turned to face Robby, gently removing the twin zebras off the robot. He grabbed a screwdriver from his utility belt, pointing it at Robby, “Robby, scout the area for any signs of Player. We need to make sure they come back in good condition.”

With a slight nod of his head, he turned around and walked out of the laboratory and into the cloudy, silent night. Outside it was windy. Snow fell down from the sky and covered the trees. Robby accumulated a thin layer of snow on his head and shoulders as he walked around. The only sounds that could be heard from miles away were the clanks of his robotic body and the wind ominously whistling. His blue eye pierced through the dense fog, bouncing from one place to another in hopes to see a figure that resembled you.