Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

"Sometimes the worst place you can be is in your own head." — Timothy Ferriss

          “The Spawn would be pleased with your acts of kindness.” Two Time thanked Elliot for his pizza before heading back to where the killer, c00lkidd, was chasing 007n7. They were in the horror hotel, and right before C00lkidd stomped past the hands sticking out of the floorboards, Two Time lunged forward with his dagger in hand.

“How…how DARE you stab that rotten thing at me?!” C00lkidd’s rage thundered through the halls. Two Time noticed how the crimson horns snapped in their direction; good, they had finally caught the killer's attention. If there was one thing the survivors could agree on, it was that Two Time’s abilities gave them quite the advantage for survival. Their first death would only add 15 seconds to the timer compared to the usual 30. In this case, it would have been an additional 40 seconds if 007n7 died. With his glitch-ridden cape flowing, c00lkidd’s furious steps headed towards Two Time. C00lkidd seemed too blind with anger to remember that Two Time had their oblation meter filled, which happened far more often than it should.

As Two Time hurriedly stepped into the kitchen, they noticed the timer rapidly going down - the other survivors must be working efficiently on generators. 007n7’s health was also going up little by little, meaning he must’ve been able to find Builderman’s dispenser. After being Forsakened for over a year, all the killers and survivors had learned the mechanics of the Spectre’s game. The only questionable exception was c00lkidd, who seemed to get his memory wiped occasionally.

Two Time turned sharp corners, leading c00lkidd to the enormous room decorated by neon colors that also happened to connect to an extremely effective loop. Slowing down to regain stamina, Two Time saw c00lkidd doing the same thing - he was going to use walkspeed override. In any other case, Two Time would continue to regain stamina, but at this risky distance, they decide that getting away would be safer.

C00lkid did just that. After presumably reaching around 100 on his stamina bar, he went for the walkspeed override right through the room with neon wallpaper into the blue room with a strange stone perch in the middle. To his extreme annoyance, he saw a sentry standing atop the stone structure. Two Time swerved right back into the kitchen as the round came to an end.

“You naive FOOLS! You’re lucky, two-life.” Past the welling rage, c00lkidd seemed to have a dangerous glint in his blank white eyes.

Two Time’s bandaged feet met the familiar surface of the cabin’s floorboards as their body relaxed. They went over to 007n7, who was visibly more glum. It seemed to be that way after every round with c00lkidd.

“Thank the Spawn you are alright, hacker. You have been blessed with its protection.”
“...Thank you, Two Time. You really saved me there.” 007n7 made sure to thank Two Time directly, not the divine being Two Time always made sure to mention. It irked Two Time a little. They turned away to notice Elliot and Guest by the kitchen.

“Guest, you okay?” Elliot got started in the kitchen, preparing dinner as Guest offered a hand. Two Time walked past them, heading towards the entrance.
“I’m alright. I was able to push through that long thanks to your pizzas. Your help is always appreciated, Elliot.” The guest placed his peaked cap on one of the counters and removed his dark cape. “How can I help?”

Closing their eyes, Two Time opened the cabin door and took in the light breeze that sometimes graced the island. The air felt cool against their sweaty skin, filling their lungs and calming them down. Two Time silently thanked the Spawn for their survival. Letting themself be carried by the gentle wind, Two Time found themself at a familiar spot - the dock. They seemed to be there more often than at the cabin; it was their own little area on an island with little to no privacy. While other survivors stayed in one of the three cabins, Two Time took it upon themself to claim the dock and the forest area around. Though the concerned glances and ostracism of others did not bother Two Time, they still felt more comfortable by themselves, where they could deepen their relationship with the Spawn without interruption.

There was another reason, Two Time was sure, but they couldn’t figure out what. It seemed to be stuck at the back of their head.

Two Time let their legs swing over the wooden dock, leaning their arms back and feeling the cold water with their feet. The dark red sky above unsettled them.

“...In the cabin, food has been served. You’ve been of help, I observed.” Dusekkar approached from behind, taking Two Time by slight surprise. Though Dusekkar’s disdain for them was apparent, it didn't bother Two Time - instead, it made Two Time’s passion for the spawn burn brighter, desperate not to let anyone come between them.

“I thank you, divine pumpkin.” Offset by Two Time’s eerie smile, Dusekkar turned away and headed toward his own cabin.

Getting back on their feet, Two Time moved towards the main cabin, though they didn’t feel too hungry. The smell of burgers wafted through the air as plates clinked against the table and background conversations filled the room. On the table closest to the entrance of the dining room were burgers that resembled the hat 007n7 usually wore. There was only one left, presumably for Two Time. Grabbing their plate, Two Time chose the table in the farthest corner to sit at, weaving between the other groups of survivors. Putting their meal down, Two Time savored the warmth of the atmosphere, which was filled with the muffled voices of others. Clasping their hands together and murmuring unintelligible words, Two Time prayed to the Spawn and held up the burger to their mouth.

Like every other meal, Two Time tasted only cardboard. Though Elliot’s expertise around the kitchen should go down in history, Two Time couldn’t appreciate his skill the same way others did. They swallowed enough of the burger to feel physically full before putting the carcass down and sliding it into the bin. Before they could move towards the sink to wash their plate, a voice approached.

“Not finishing ya meal again, kid? Elliot and Guest worked hard, ya know.” Chance, holding on to both their plate and coin, peered into the bin holding Two Time’s leftovers. Two Time’s smile seemed to reach farther than usual.

“The Spawn does not require followers who cannot let go of mortal desires. It is of utmost importance that we are pure and free.” Turning on the sink, Two Time clumsily washed their dish, though there wasn’t much on there to begin with.

“Same excuse, huh,” Chance muttered. Two Time left their dish on the rack next to the sink before smiling at Chance and excusing themself.

The new weight in Two Time’s stomach made them slightly nauseous, as they often were after meals. Though the cool breeze helped relieve the vomit-inducing feeling, it was not rare for them to throw up food now and then. Today, though, was not one of those days. Two Time simply decided to rest beneath a tree while they ran their hands through the wispy grass. They had a couple of hours until the next round, so Two Time let their eyelids fall as they whispered words of devotion to sleep.

Although Two Time’s body was silent and motionless, their drowsy thoughts fantasized about a true second life. One where their wings of bone and halo of light would permanently stay as a gift from the Spawn. In the comfort of their dreams, they are always kneeling before the symbol of Spawn, hands trembling and clutched together.

It was their everything. The reason they were alive. The reason they kept going.

“Glory to the Spawn! Its steadfast love endures forever.”

Chapter Text

          AS the ticklish feeling of grass beneath Two Time’s palm disappeared, their heavy eyes met a different sky - a vast midnight, speckled with periwinkle. While they missed the killer introduction, they heard a nostalgic tune just before they fully awoke. A melody that gently hummed somewhere distant inside their head.

“T-Two Time? D-Did you see there w-was a new killer?” Noob spluttered, peeking their head out from behind one of the wine-colored trees. Poor non-devotee. Every time they gathered enough courage to face the Spectre’s game head-on, life seemed to beat them back down. If they had followed the teachings of the Spawn, they’d have no reason to fear death. However, at the moment, Two Time was more interested in hearing about the new killer.

“Unfortunately, I missed the killer introduction. Could you please describe to me the appearance of our newest opponent, Noob?” Two Time motioned for Noob to come closer as they placed their ritual down under a patch of tall, leafy flowers. Purple buds peered over them both as they crouched down low. Two Time’s dagger kissed the ground. Once, twice, then thrice.

“H-His skin and hair were pitch-black. His eyes were p-purple, and he wore a brown pointed hat. O-Oh! I think he fights with the t-tentacles that grow from his back…” Noob gulped, and Two Time noticed how they seemed visibly anxious. They had yet to see the killer, but sweat was already beading in their yellow palm. Two Time’s eyes met Noob’s before the latter hastily looked away, as if words were stuck in their throat.

“A-And… they had a purple shirt w-with the same s-symbol as you…” Noob was correct to assume that the new killer had some sort of correlation with Two Time - their usually blank eyes widened with emotion.

“Another follower of the Spawn? Why, it is essential that I meet them!” For a moment, Two Time seemed to forget their newfound devotee friend was a killer. Noob wasn’t sure if they did the right thing. Terrified of being dragged into something dangerous, Noob hurriedly excused themselves to find the generators’ locations on the new map.

As Two Time headed towards the opposite direction, they wondered a little.

‘Why had a fellow devotee of the great Spawn become a killer? Every follower must be pure in their life with the Spawn!’

Perhaps they had sinned before they discovered the joy that is Two Time’s god. Or, they had broken their promise with the Spawn and were being punished for it.

Interrupting Two Time’s thoughts, the noisy bullets of Builderman’s sentry were firing from the base of a peculiar stone statue. Before they got a chance to look at the killer whom the sentry was shooting, their body froze as a light gasp escaped their lips.

The statue was all too familiar to them. Something they held more dear than home.

A statue of the Spawn. The ethereal carving rendered them speechless. Like an angel released from the confines of a rock, the glorious symbol towered above the field, looking far past Two Time into the overgrown forest.

Without thinking, Two Time’s palms met each other as their fingers hugged each knuckle like it was their lifeline. Their tail of bone swayed, releasing every last bit of tension it had.

The beauty had been carefully carved deep into Two Time’s head.

That singular moment of undying devotion was like an eternity, an everlasting moment between Two Time and their beloved.

“KID! MOVE! TWO TIME-” Builderman’s voice echoed somewhere in the far distance.

‘Move? Whatever for? I need only savor this gift from the Spawn, and return to it my prayers and continued worship.’

Builderman’s sentry had long been scattered between the grass in remnants of its previous self. Two Time’s instincts, developed by this cruel game of death, moved them unwillingly off their feet. As adrenaline began to kick in, whether from finally meeting the new cultist killer or seeing the Spawn’s statue, Two Time ducked, narrowly avoiding a dark tentacle that crashed into the polished stone.

‘...! No…NO! I shouldn’t have ducked..! I-How could a devotee do that to their god-?!’

Faults appeared on the statue, and Two Time’s heart plunged into the pit of their stomach. They hadn’t been able to protect their god; they would receive punishment for their carelessness.

“TWO TIME! Kid, GET OUTTA HERE!” Guest jumped in behind Two Time with a well-timed block, gaining him a punch that stunned the killer. He grabbed them roughly by the arm and sprinted back into the overgrowth. A new voice rang through the night.

“Do your punches remind you of the COUNTLESS you’ve KILLED? HAHAHAHA! You ENJOYED seeing them DIE, DIDN’T YOU? NO WONDER YOU’RE MADE TO ATONE HERE, FOR THE REST OF YOUR FILTHY LIFE!” Looking back, Two Time noticed that the insults were being spewed from the glowing mouth of a pointed hat. Yes, Noob had said that a pointed hat adorned the new killer.

Guest bit the inside of his cheek, dragging Two Time deeper into the forest until their stamina reached 10.

“Don’t space out, Two Time. It’s a new killer. There’s no time for hesitation.” Guest instructed them. “Dusekkar and Shedletsky had died within one minute. Your second life is a necessity for us this round.”

For the first time in a while, Two Time’s face displayed a different expression from their usual blank, wide smile. Guest observed the eyes filled with great panic, the rapid breaths, and the fiddling hands that had itched to carry out its duties.

“The statue! The statue may be destroyed! Soldier, there is no time for the killer. I must promptly tend to the cracks present in the stone!” 

“Two Time, the map always gets reset after a round. Your statue will be fine.” Guest knew that his most important task at hand was to snap Two Time out of their… cultist daze. Two out of six survivors had gone down, and the timer was nearing three minutes. Builderman’s health was slowly decreasing, as if he’d been poisoned. Elliot had not spawned this round, leaving them scrambling to find medkits.

In the far distance, Builderman’s last groan resounded.

Chest still heaving from panic, Two Time’s lips curled back into a grin more manic than before.

“Oh…you are right. I understand, soldier. May the Spawn guide my blade and lend you its protection.” Gripping their blade tightly, Two Time reassured Guest with a wide smile before hiding behind a thick tree. Guest, still unsure, simply nodded and ran.

Luckily, it seemed like Noob was able to find generators, as the timer counted down faster.

“You will REGRET every single moment of your LIFE. You won’t escape your SINS, SOLDIER.” The hat’s agitating voice drew near, chasing after Guest through the bushes and trees. Blood-stained tentacles ghosted over the bark that hid Two Time. They got into position, more determined than ever to avenge their god. How DARE anyone crack the carving of LIFE itself?

The agony of remembering how chips of stone fell to the ground one by one boiled Two Time's blood and burned their very soul. They would never forget such betrayal. Grief channeled into anger, they glanced at their reflection in the sharp blade one last time.

Lunging forward, Two Time sank the dagger into the bright purple of the killer’s back.

The dagger sent the dark limbs squirming violently from the intense and unforgettable pain. Blood running down the tentacles dripped onto Two Time’s nose.

“AGH! You PUTRID SCUM..!” The screams of agony faded away as the killer’s head snapped back to look down at Two Time. To them, that moment felt like a lifetime.

Vicious eyes of a familiar hue glowered at them.

Sadly, that was the only familiar thing.

Chapter Text

          Two Time’s head hurt. It hurt a lot.

It was all too sudden when the bright purple was overpowered by dim red.

Before Two Time could breathe, a dark limb tore through their lungs. The dagger, which they held so dear, was embedded in the carved muscles that showed through the thin layer of purple; no amount of strength they could exert would release it.

The pain seeped in slowly at first, before condemning Two Time with excruciation so unforgettable that every nerve screamed and gasped for it to stop.

His eyes were quite cold - perhaps that was why he wanted to steal Two Time’s warmth. Ears beginning to ring, they could make out words evidently coming from the hat.

“Oh…OH! Look who it is! THE MURDERER! The one that BETRAYED me. Do you remember? How you DESTROYED EVERYTHING?” The voice dripped with a different kind of rage - one that only resulted from being stabbed in the back.

“Still killing in the afterlife, huh? It seems like you don’t remember me at all, do you?” Giggles and maniacal laughter drowned out the howls of the night.

“We could’ve been SO much more. But YOU decided to end it YOURSELF.” Two Time’s body was dangling mid-air, lifted by the tentacle that stabbed through their chest. Their eyes were getting bleary, and the scene in front of them became a blur of black, purple, and red.

Their head hurt. It hurt so much.

Body flung away, Two Time closed their eyes before their back found familiar wood. They had died. Against a new killer, losing was practically inevitable. Though loops were incredibly effective against anyone, they were bound to fail due to not knowing the killer’s abilities. Plus, Two Time was unable to pull out their dagger after stunning him. Was it because of their own weakness, or was it intentional design?

Two Time would have to wait until the post-round discussion. Once again, they clasped their hands together in a fervent prayer. Though they had momentarily forgotten while fighting, it was true that the Spawn had descended in a form Two Time was allowed to comprehend. Their heart beat faster - it was a dream come true. They barely noticed that the two survivors who died before them were already talking.

Dusekkar spoke calmly to a frustrated Shedletsky on the main couch.

“Venturing must be done with care, for we had fallen into the killer’s lair.”

“It was a new map, Matt! I can’t be right all the time, y’know.” From their conversation, it was easy to discern that Shedletsky likely led both of them to their death while trying to find generators. Strangely, Two Time hadn’t processed that they were on a new map until now.

Shedletsky caught Two Time out of the corner of his eye.

“And how did you die? You got your second life and all that.”

“Divine Pumpkin, Admin! You must listen - the Spawn had just descended upon us! It has come to reward my worship! The Spawn’s love truly does last forever! You must’ve seen it for yourself. After all, such an ethereal carving is sure to garner attention!” Two Time gushed with a newfound sparkle in their eyes. There were millions of stars swimming in their irises, and their jubilance shone like a sun the realm had been missing.

The distaste on Dusekkar’s face made the air turn sour, though Two Time had taken no notice. He chose to say nothing, perhaps as a way of swallowing his disgust. Shedletsky laughed awkwardly and tried to shift the conversation away from the topic.

“So…new killer, huh? Got all those tentalces and stuff. Anything you guys notice about his abilities? I know there were poison traps, ‘cause I stepped on a patch of purple flowers and my health started dropping. Then I kinda just died.” Shedletsky had a slightly disappointed smile, not having been able to eat any chicken that round.

“Our newest foe moves with great haste; the dark tentacles do aid in chase.” Dusekkar forced his mind temporarily off the cultist to focus on the matter at hand.

“Riight. I did kind of see him fling himself towards me with tentacles before I died. And what did you see, Two Time?... Two Time?” The pair quickly realized the cultist had already left the conversation, much to Dusekkar’s ease.

Two Time rushed out of the cabin with renewed joy.

Once again, they found themself by the dock.

In deep devotion, they knelt and prayed with more passion than they had ever before. It is not often that the Spawn itself descends to reward its followers. But Two Time supposed that their worship had finally been noticed. Finally.

—-

What felt like hours had passed by the time Two Time was called to the cabin by Builderman. Their legs and knees were sore, but no physical pain would keep them apart from their god. Builderman, having witnessed the sight of Two Time discovering the statue of the Spawn, kept mostly silent.

Together, they entered the main cabin, where everyone had a plate in front of them and seemed to be deep in discussion.

“He doesn’t seem to be able to talk with his mouth. I saw that he had a zipper.” Elliot explained from one corner of the table.

“Doesn’t 1x have a zipper mouth too? They talk just fine!” Shedletsky added, stuffing his mouth with pizza.

“Okay, at least we can conclude that this killer is some kind of poison trap in the shape of flowers, a moving ability that flings him forward, and a special attack that lets him stretch one of his tentacles farther than usual. Anyone notice passives?” Guest listed off the things they had discussed so far. Silence fell at Guest’s question.

To everyone’s surprise, Two Time took the initiative to speak.

“I believe the Spawn had blessed him with a reduced stun duration passive!” They exclaimed happily. A few survivors were confused at their beaming happiness that contrasted with their unfortunate news.

“The moment my dagger sank into his back, I was unable to pull it out! And then I got stabbed by a tentacle while trying to get it out. It seems he has the Spawn’s protection.” Everyone remembered how the new killer had the same Spawn symbol printed on his chest.

“Furthermore, the stun duration was greatly reduced!”

“Really? My stun worked just fine.” Guest wondered. “Chance, did you notice anything different about your shot?”

Chance grabbed his coin mid-air.

“Nope, worked fine. And I made sure it wasn’t the gun’s fault ‘cause I actually got three charges this time.” He grinned as he continued to take bites out of his pizza. Builderman piped up, “Sentry worked just fine.”

It went unsaid, but it seemed that the reduced stun duration passive affected only Two Time; it was obvious even without confirming with Shedletsky.

“I assume that means I am only able to stun once per round, and for a reduced duration. It seems the Spawn wills for me to overcome this new challenge!” The other survivors were disturbed by Two Time’s warped face, while they were overcome with a fit of giggles at their new realization.

“Seems like Azure has something against ya after all, kid,” Chance teased.

Chapter Text

          “Seems like Azure has something against ya after all, kid,” Chance teased.

Two Time hadn’t remembered that name. Perhaps Chance could tell by the curious look on their face.

“You used to talk about him sometimes,” Chance stood up to look over and pointed at a piece of paper stuck behind Two Time’s belt, “that’s him, ain’t it?”

Two Time’s eyes followed his finger and pulled out the crumpled paper. There lay two people - one they recognized as themselves, and one whose face was scribbled out. They glanced back up at Chance.

“This is the one you call Azure?” Two Time questioned. The other survivors around the table were getting more visibly perturbed, as it was evident that the cultist had no memory of the friend and partner they had talked about so dearly a year prior.

“And you say this person has turned into our new killer?”

“Uh..seems like it?” Uncomfortable, Chance excused himself from the conversation by going to get seconds.

Most survivors have returned to their food and conversations, trying to reduce the tension in the atmosphere. Two Time stared down at the photograph covered by pen marks. At the bottom, it was written, ‘Glory to the Spawn!’ There were also words crossed out, which they could barely make out to read ‘best friends forever!’

But Two Time didn’t need distractions from the Spawn. Not their own thoughts, not this game, not new mysteries. The wrinkled paper, crushed into a ball, was thrown into a bin near the cabin door. Azure had apparently deviated from the pure path of Spawn and was thus punished, becoming a killer.

With a smile on their face, Two Time nibbled on their turned-cold pizza.

—---

This round’s killer is…

Azure.

The name inked in red had stopped fazing Two Time for a while now. After all, Azure acted like any other killer, save for the hat’s oddly specific words, which Two Time didn’t understand.

As agreed with the other survivors, Two Time focused on doing generators since their stun was quite weak during Azure’s rounds. However, they could stab and run away if they immediately let go of their dagger. Thus, it was saved for when another survivor was at certain death.

“This is your END. When will you learn your lesson? There’s NOTHING you can do. HAHAHA!” The hat cackled as Azure’s tentacle once again penetrated Two Time’s chest. Hovering right in front of the killer, Two Time felt themselves sliding off the slimy limb. Azure’s eyes widened as the cultist dropped right onto him, their arms hanging over his shoulders.

Just as quickly, Two Time dropped to the ground.

Amidst the hat’s screams, a memory Azure had sunk away resurfaced.

Coming back from his garden, Two Time would sometimes greet him with a warm hug. They would throw their arms around his neck after making sure no one was looking; if he were lucky, he’d get a peck or two.

But that didn’t matter anymore.

—--

Back against a tree, Two Time pondered about the feeling they had whilst accidentally landing on the killer. It was not physically warm, for sure. But they could feel warmth spring inside their heart. For a moment, when their head rested on Azure’s shoulder, the scene before them had transformed. A sunny forest, with purple buds everywhere. Before them still stood the glorious statue of the Spawn. It was the same map, but transformed, as if it were taken back to another time.

The odd vision was so clear, yet Two Time couldn’t find the same clarity in their mind.

A prayer to the Spawn will fix their tumultuous thoughts.

—--

Much to Two Time’s dismay, distorted memories keep trying to break in over the course of the next few months. Though their relationship with the Spawn had never been better, they were often distracted during Azure’s rounds. Once, on Azure’s map, Two Time had discovered a familiar cottage - they remembered the sudden rush of joy they felt upon finding it. It was strange. They shouldn’t feel such happiness for something other than the Spawn.

Upon entry, they realized their body knew every corner of the cottage. Two Time’s body moved on its own, and it felt all too natural.

Two Time knew that their memory was fragmented - they couldn’t recall the simplest of things, save for their knowledge about the Spawn. Thus, they came to the most obvious conclusion that the Spawn must be rewarding Two Time by allowing them to remember their past.

They scribbled down on paper whenever a new fragment came to them.

Evidently, they knew very well that Azure’s map had a strong connection to their past. Different versions of the same place repeatedly appeared in their vision, suggesting that they had known the map before being Forsakened; moreover, Two Time knew the map like the back of their hand.

Two Time also knew there was someone else next to them. Occasionally appearing briefly in dreams and visions. A man with brown hair and a pointed hat. A pointed hat. Even Two Time wasn’t that clueless.

But with all this new knowledge came a gripping fear - how could Two Time properly serve the Spawn if they were spending all this time trying to solve their past? The Spawn is a priority that is always above themselves; it’s been and will always be that way.

They tried to move past it, but the curiosity was difficult to fight during moments of vulnerability and desperation. Inch by inch, the questions crept in over the span of countless rounds.

Had they lived somewhere similar to Azure’s map?

The hat seemed familiar with their past actions, which is still a mystery.

Why did Azure’s passive only apply to Two Time?

Why did Azure wear the same pointed hat as the man who appeared in their fragments of memories?

According to Chance, they had a picture of themselves and Azure together. They had been best friends. Why was Azure’s face scribbled out?

Two Time regretted throwing that paper away; it was not the first time their heart had ached this way.

Would the other survivors be willing to help?

Everyone had their own past to deal with, that Two Time knew. But just to remind them of what they had been like when they first arrived here, wouldn’t that be okay?

However, they’ve been noticing increasingly loud whispers around them. It made Two Time just a little bit more hesitant to approach anyone. After all, they had not interacted with anyone since Azure’s first post-round discussion, talking less to survivors and more to the Spawn. But that was great to them - all they needed was the Spawn’s company. But the fragments the Spawn blessed them with came so achingly slow.

Two Time didn’t realize how this newfound curiosity had changed them, even when they were given odd looks by other survivors.

But they had resolved themselves to dig a little deeper, if the Spawn wills it.

Chapter Text

          “Thank you, Elliot. May you be safe.” Two Time thanked Elliot for his pizza and ran off with their dagger in hand.

Elliot glanced at Taph, who froze with their subspace mine still in hand.

“See? I told you, they’re talking weird!” Though Two Time was nowhere near, Elliot kept his voice down. Still shocked, Taph threw their mine towards the pizza plex’s entrance before frantically signing.

Did I hear that right? ‘May you be safe?’ Did something happen?

“I don’t know what happened, but it’s been a few weeks since they started speaking differently. Sometimes, they forget to mention the ‘Spawn’ - no one knows what’s going on.”

Has anyone else noticed? I saw they were talking a bit more to others, but this is the first time I heard them speak differently.

“Oh, the others definitely noticed. Especially the people Two Time approached,” Elliot paused with hardened eyes, “I’m slightly concerned. I want to find out what’s going on.”

Might be dangerous. Don’t drag yourself into something you’ll regret.

“I’m just digging around, I’m sure everyone else is curious anyway- HEY WATCH OUT-!” John Doe’s spikes shot up right behind Taph, who began sprinting without hesitation.

During dinner, Two Time observed the heightened tension. Once again, the survivors had pushed the tables together to form one large dinner table. This usually happened before important discussions and pre-round planning, but Two Time had no clue what it was for today. Body still sore from sleeping outside, they sat on a chair at the corner, hoping for some quiet time to help them process what they’ve learned. They mentally pieced together the fractured images of the fields, of the rituals, and of their ‘best friend’ before they were Forsakened. Pen and paper in hand, they thought about drawing a timeline.

“Two Time.” The cultist looked up to see Elliot taking a seat across from them. They paused. This had never happened. Usually, the person who sat in front of Two Time was the last one to arrive, meaning they had no other choice. Recently, Two Time had been growing more fidgety and nervous - Elliot’s presence didn’t help. Clenching their stationery between wet palms, Two Time shrank back, their eyes filled with extreme guilt, though no one knew the reason for it. Every unusual event relating to them nowadays made Two Time subconsciously feel guilty. Afraid they’ll be caught, even though they fought to justify their actions in their head.

“Yes, Elliot?” Two Time flashed a falsely eager smile. Elliot didn’t speak, still putting the words together in his mind. For them, it was an unbearable 10 seconds.

“Has…something happened?” Elliot was also visibly tense.

“Whatever do you mean?”

Had they been discovered? Had their curiosity gone too far? Oh, Spawn…will they be punished?

“You’ve been…acting differently. A-And I mean, like, you’ve been mentioning your god a bit-” 

Suddenly, Dusekkar appeared beside Elliot, gently grabbing his shoulder.
“The night is growing late; if you so please, a break will set you straight.” An urgent squeeze on his shoulder notified Elliot that he had to leave.

“Err…later, Two Time.” A sigh of immense relief left their lips as they relaxed their shoulders, grabbing the fried chicken that they could feel someone else’s eyes on.

“Uh…what’s wrong, Dusekkar?” Elliot questioned after they were out of earshot.

“Their fate guides them on the right path; it must not be disturbed, lest we wish to incur its wrath.” Leaning against the balcony railing, Elliot tried to hide his disappointment. Finding anything out of the ordinary was the only thing that could keep the survivors distracted.

“...I trust you. I’ll relay it to others. Thanks, buddy.” 

Footsteps approached the pair.

“What kinda secrets ya guys sharing?” Chance stood up from the slot machine and moved towards the far corner of the balcony.

“The cultist’s shift shall not be admitted; in this we must be committed.”

“Oh, this about Two Time? Yeah, I got it, I won’t mess with ‘em.” 

The small crowd on the balcony drew the attention of the other survivors, who had noticed Dusekkar dragging Elliot out of the room after attempting to speak to Two Time. 

As usual, the cultist paid no attention and concentrated on their task - to ask other survivors about their previous self. They turned to 007n7, as he had always been the easiest to address.

“...Uh, you need something, Two Time?” 007n7 glanced up from their dinner. It was time. They could unlock a part of the puzzle right here.

But was this going too far in indulging their curiosity? Would the Spawn be pleased with this development? 

Two Time’s entangled fingers began fidgeting again. Their tail read as unsure, anxiety printed on their face.

If they asked, would there be any chance of turning back? Could they reel their new interest back in if they knew they were inching closer to the answer?

Surely, the Spawn would not be pleased that Two Time had been less fervent in their devotion.

“...Two Time?”

“E-Er…um… never mind, hacker! May the Spawn grant you its protection!” Words spilled out frantically, as if they were desperate to prove something. It was inconceivable that they’d prioritize themselves over the great Spawn.

Then, they ran, tail tucked behind their legs - they retreated into safety, where the Spawn watched over them. But they had robbed themselves not only of knowledge but also of a key piece to the puzzle.

007n7 reached into his pocket and carefully pulled out a wrinkled paper that he had scavenged from the bin. Something familiar to Two Time, he was sure, but he didn’t know why he saved it. He wasn’t sure if they’d be happy to receive back the picture of them and their friend, which they had discarded without a thought. But now his attention snapped back to the quiet discussion on the second floor. More survivors had joined the conversation, but he wasn’t sure if he’d be welcome. That was, until he heard the cultist’s name being repeated. 007n7 knew that at the very least, he could contribute to this.

“...Yeah, the kid’s been forgetting to smile sometimes, too. Stuck out to me.” Builderman muttered to the group.

“S-So you guys think Azure is what’s causing this..?” Noob tried their best to add comments despite having been less observant of Two Time’s odd behavior.

“Without a doubt. Small things can lead to a cataclysmic chain of events.” 

Eyebrows furrowed, Guest pulled out a chair for 007n7, who had just arrived. He was hesitant, though the words clawed at his throat.

“07? What’s up?” Shedletsky asked while still chowing down on his nth plate of chicken. 

“U-Um…are you guys talking about Two Time, by any chance?”

“07n7…I’m sure you’ve also noticed their changes. Dusekkar said we shouldn’t disturb them,” Elliot commented, though unsure.

“I-I mean it’s just a hunch, haha…But I think Two Time has been talking a lot less about their god…in favor of trying to recover their memories. I-I know it’s rude to look through other people’s stuff, but I’ve seen them writing down things they figure out about themselves. Um…that’s all I got, though. Oh, and this,” 007n7 pulled out the picture of Two Time and Azure. Dusekkar’s face was troubled. On the one hand, they could let Two Time figure it out themselves; Dusekkar knew that it would eventually come into place. On the other hand, they could help the cultist. But what is to be gained? They’d be troubling themselves for no reason.

“I’d just rather let them figure it out,” Shedletsky sighed unconcernedly, throwing his feet up onto one of the tables. Dusekkar nodded in agreement.

The other survivors, however, still seemed undecided. Most of them were caring people, but this matter was not their business. 007n7 built up the courage to speak.

“I-I want to help them, just a bit, if that’s okay.” Perhaps being empathetic to the other outcast, 007n7 wanted to at least give the photo over to them. After all, it was not his to keep.

“I’ll just answer their questions and won’t pry beyond that."

That night, Two Time tossed and turned. Sleep was growing distant, and the comforting blades of grass did not help in blanketing them from the breeze. Two Time knew, based on whims and feelings, that their past would be solved if they could figure out who Azure was in their life. The ache in their head when seeing Azure’s eyes had hurt more than the ache of being stabbed.

But right now, that was of less importance to Two Time. Like a broken record, they pleaded in the back of their head for forgiveness from the Spawn - a constant reminder of their guilt.

So, like always, they got onto their knees and prayed. Though this time, something felt empty.

Chapter Text

          Shivering, Two Time exited a humble cottage, closing the creaky door behind them. A small puff of white rose with every breath they took, following them like a temporary trail. There were only a few recognizable footprints in the snow - one that was theirs and one that belonged to another. Two Time trekked through the forest path, clutching their lovingly dear scarf close.

Through the woodland silhouettes, they spotted a small glass dome with foggy windows. Beneath the condensation, a blurry figure slowly moved around. It lifted Two Time’s heart. The entrance opened with a quiet jingle, and they observed the figure, now clear, hovering over a small plant box. Hearing the door, the gardener turned to Two Time.

“Two Time! Look at the purple crocuses! They’re blooming so beautifully!”

“Yes, quite beautiful indeed.” But their eyes weren’t focused on the violet buds.

Azure’s eyes shifted to their bare shoulders, still trembling from the outside frost.

“My nightshade, why do you clothe yourself so improperly for this weather? A scarf alone will simply not do.”

Two Time beamed, “The Spawn shall protect me from simple things such as the weather. However, the Spawn wills for me to appreciate what you’ve gifted me.” They gestured at the muted blue scarf.

Two Time did not often get sick, even when they dressed sparingly in the cold and rain. But it is no surprise that their lover still wished for them to take care of themselves.

“Wait here.” He ran off to the far end of the dome. Two Time noticed how he returned with a jacket in hand.

“Are you lending me your jacket?”

“Even better. I’m gifting it to you, nightshade. So, wear it, please.”

Two Time could not hide their slightly guilty grin as they accepted the gift and wrapped it around their shoulders. It did not escape Azure’s sharp eyes.

“What’s with that guilty face?” Azure asked with a knowing giggle.

“I don’t know what you mean, Azu,” they responded in a playful tone.

“You know, if you just wanted my jacket, you could’ve simply asked.”

“I’d be shameless if I got used to asking. I want a lot more than just your jacket.”

Azure’s cheeks flushed pink, his voice benign.

“Nightshade, don’t worry about such things. Be…shameless, if you wish.”

“Why is it that I see a rosy tinge upon your face, Azu? I was talking about your other winter items. They look quite cozy.”

“Two Time…I’ve noticed the rummaging in my drawers. It is quite obvious what you were talking about.”

It was Two Time’s turn to go red. Their little ear-wings jolted, and their panicked tail curled inwards. For a few seconds, they internally debated whether to come clean or double down.

“W-What are you talking about, love? What do you mean, rummaging?”

But the red on their face splattered over the ground they knelt over. It spilled, and the pool grew and grew until their knees were drowning in a sea of red.

Azure’s hat floated somberly. Little purple pebbles emerged, and Two Time recognized them as purple hyacinths.

The oxygen was thin, and red mist clogged up their lungs.

Involuntarily, their face was forced beneath the thick liquid.

Two Time couldn’t breathe.

Suddenly, the cold sensation became much more real. Salty water tickled Two Time’s tongue as their head was forcibly lifted.

Before them was an expansive stretch of slow-moving crimson.

“Two Time! Are you awake…?” 007n7 asked tentatively. He had exited the cabin in search of the cultist, stumbling quietly through the trees. They had been sound asleep by the shore, eyebrows furrowed and tears collecting at the corners of their eyes. 007n7 had only planned to shake them awake before he saw their quickened and uneven breathing. Panicked by their labored and ragged gasping, 007n7 shook them, but to no avail. Eventually, he had to resort to dipping their face into the freezing ocean water.

Concerned noises drifted out of the former hacker’s mouth, to which Two Time remained silent in response. There was a lot for them to process.

“Um…let’s get you dried off first.” 007n7 led Two Time through the now-dark cabin into the small washroom hidden at the back. He grabbed a towel and handed it to them. Amongst Shedletsky’s loud snores, Two Time observed how each survivor was in their own dedicated sleeping areas, getting ready for bed. The rough towel grazed their wet face.

“...What was it that you needed of me, 007n7?” Forcing a small smile, Two Time hung the towel where it originally was. 007n7’s clammy fingers reached into his back pocket, and the cultist’s eyes widened.

“Here, I found this…I thought you might want it back.” He handed them the very picture they had previously tossed. Two Time let their fingers reach out to touch the thin film before they gently held it between their open palms.

“Have a good night, Two Time.” 007n7, not wanting to pry any further, bade Two Time goodnight.

Their fingers, encasing the photo, trembled quietly. They returned to their comfortable spot beneath the canopies, eyes blank yet searching. Yearning.

Two Time felt the longing of someone else without the knowledge of who or why.

Two Time continued to stare hard at the piece of paper. The tumult in their mind grew until even the sound of crashing waves was reduced to mere tickles against the sand.

No one had presented them with the choices, nor had anyone forced them to pick between anything. However, in their heart, they were aware that they were crossing a line if they dug deeper.

It was a silent yet intense battle between need and devotion.

Amarah would not excuse this unruly behavior. There shan’t be obstacles to their purity.

But, is simply observing their own possession not allowed?

…

With that justification, Two Time engrossed themselves for hours, scanning the person that is ‘Azure.’ He was irrevocably the man who invaded their dream - a pointed hat, a beaming smile, and a muscular build. The shadow of his hat had obscured his eyes, leaving Two Time disappointed. Azure’s eyes had not been visible to them in their dream either.

This is not right. They should not be yearning for anything other than the blessings of the Spawn.

Especially not for the eyes of another.

The Spawn would be displeased. If it despised their curiosity so, they will be punished soon.

It is only a string of justifications that enter and leave Two Time’s mind - it was necessary to retain whatever stability they had left in their mind. Each new excuse made less sense, and their heartbeat banged harder at their ribcage, screaming at them to stop. At least, that was what Two Time believed.

The feeling that the Spawn had been observing and judging their every move was unbearably heavy; every passing moment only made that feeling more real. Every waking second only inched them closer to what they believed was punishment. It would be excruciating; it would be familiar. It would be devotion.

All they’ve known is the Spawn, after all.

Azure is nothing compared to its glory.

After lying down for hours, the next round begins. 

This round’s killer is…

Azure.

Then, Two Time knew - their judgment had already begun.

Chapter Text

          This round was different, Two Time could tell. Whether it be the excruciating pain in their chest from their pounding heart or an urging instinct that indicated danger, there was an undeniable shiver that crept up their spine.

Stabbing thrice into the ground, their sacrificial dagger was safely returned to their belt. Their legs absentmindedly carried them to the nearest generator, and their shaking fingers quickly got to work. Little sparks flew out, singeing the air with an odd smell.

“Two Time! Come, quickly! Elliot is about to die, and I’m on cooldown.” Guest gasped as he appeared from the shaded undercanopy, evidently injured. Two Time paused, hesitation abundant in their mind.

“Two Time, snap out of it. We need to act fast.” Grabbing their wrist, they firmly dragged Two Time in the direction Azure presumably was. They notice how the blurred leaves slowly transformed into the Spawn’s symbol; how the previously unnoticeable twigs stuck up from the ground, threatening to pierce through their bandaged foot. The beady golden eyes of the nightshades’ core glared at the running pair, closed and defensive yet ready to spew poison. Two Time’s eyes widened as the blue of their friend’s hair warped into a hazy vision of the man who had been tormenting them. His brown hat dangled in front of them like a taunt.

Before long, they had reached the clearing that led to the main field. Elliot was looping Azure around the Spawn statue.

The Spawn’s statue.

It stood, effervescent.

Guest’s words were merely murmurs against the heartbeat thundering through Two Time’s ears. There they stood before the only thing they knew - the only intact piece of their previous life. It was their mother, their father, their guide, their god. From the moment they were born, they were cradled in the loving arms of the Spawn. It was destiny. Two Time’s knees were never meant to touch the ground before anything but their god. Even the thought of being abandoned by the one who loved them the most weighed a thousand stars. Forgiveness must be earned.

“Glory to the Spawn! Its steadfast love endures forever.”

Instinctively, they reached down to pull out the photo they had been studying minutes prior. 

There was no need to think further when their heart knew. No need to ruminate when their mind went blank with pain and their body raced towards Azure.

To avoid punishment, Two Time needed only to prove their devotion to the Spawn. They had done something similar before. It made perfect sense, though the quiet anguish bubbling in their chest did not.

The Spawn had been pleased with Azure’s first sacrifice.

Two Time would be forgiven in exchange for another.

Even as the distant echoes of irrelevant items disturbed their pure mind, Two Time did not hesitate in brandishing their dagger to impale Azure’s stomach.

Strangely, they could not hear the hat. Nor Elliot, nor Guest, nor the wind’s howl, nor the nightshades, nor the forest’s twigs, nor Amarah, nor the Spawn, nor the cuts and the pain.

Even their nerves could no longer make a sound.

Tearing apart the fibers of their arm, Two Time wrests the dagger out. Only to pierce through the torso again and again and again without even taking a breath. The pain of defying the Spectre’s rules was immense, but the one whom Two Time feared was far more powerful.

Blood crawled out of their mouth; they weren’t sure whether it was from resisting the rules or from the tentacle that had speared through their stomach and leg.

Two shades of red spilled and swirled together in an entrancing dance in the blades of grass.

Their newfound strength was only possible because the Spawn was pleased with their decision - Two Time was sure of it. Now, Azure lay beneath them, pain in his glowering eyes. His hands, though much bigger than Two Time’s, struggled to wrestle them off. The red lay so beautifully under the moonlight. Azure’s arms kept them from fulfilling their purpose, though now they know better. Until the dark creature stopped moving, the dagger kissed the ground beneath the pair again and again.

Wet, bloody hands met together in a trembling panic as Two Time gazed up at the Spawn’s statue, breathing out shaky words of prayer.

With this, their loyalty would be complete - they would belong to the Spawn, forevermore.

Elliot stumbled towards Shedletsky, who had a medkit in his outstretched arm. It was dark in the ruined castle, but he knew that he was safe.

“Thanks, bud.” Grabbing the medkit, he quickly healed himself up. A sigh of relief left his lips.

“That was close, eh? How’d you get out?” Shed leaned against the last generator, hands working quickly while he waited for his slash cooldown.

“I think it was Two Time. Saw them jump Azure.”

Shedletsky bore a concerned look. “So they’re practically dead, huh. Why hasn’t the timer gone up?”

Both went silent as they gave each other knowing glances.

Elliot spoke first, “Your slash should be off cooldown, right? Let’s go help them!”

He rushed outside, followed close behind by Shedletsky.

However, the sight was not pretty.

A short yell rang in Shedletsky’s ear as he stopped in front of the castle’s entrance.

Beneath the Spawn’s symbol lay one figure atop another, bathed in blood and wallowed in a horrible stench. The egregious wounds decorating the pair would make anyone wince. Shining red pools reflected the pure moon, contrasting the shadowy corpses with a white glow.

Elliot and Shedletsky maintained the silence of the scarring night, mourning, and perhaps remembering.