Dark Deception: The Malign Dealby Aether SparkChaptersAn evil soul never plays fairlyBe silent... he is listening...Nice to eat youSink or swimA killer jokePlay with me... forever...A grievous gardenSlothful businessCold hearted/ An alluring offerPolice brutality/ A new friend is 'made'Rotten RapacityRoad to hellHighway to heavenAn evil soul never plays fairlyAuthor's Note I will warn you again if all the stuff mentioned in the title upsets you, I'd suggest skipping to the middle of the story. Either way, I hope you enjoy my darker more serious DD story, hopefully, Dark Deception will update by the end of this. And this is uncharted territory for me so wish me luck! An evil soul never plays fairly "The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall." - Thomas Edison Life… is suffering… That is all Spike knows… he has gone through a lot in his life. But let’s recap. He grew up in an orphanage, never knowing who his family was, where he was singled out and hurt multiple times. He ran away at twelve. He can’t hold down a job due to lack of funds to buy a car or gas and the fact that his background makes it harder for him to get one in the first place. He’s been in and out of places to stay, having to sleep on the sidewalk or alleys sometimes. He remembers sleeping in a dumpster once. And who’d want to be with someone with nothing to their name?... so loves an issue as well… And now here he is… sitting in a cardboard box, in an alleyway, taking shelter from the rain…. It isn’t comfy but it’s better than sitting in the rain all night. He has his trusty knife, the very thing that’s kept him alive… and it’ll be the thing that finally ends his misery. Now he just has to do it… “....There’s nothing left for me here… so why can’t I do it?!” Spike asked himself as he held the knife at his wrist he cursed himself for what he cannot do. He cursed his life… if only he had the money, he could turn everything around. But what? Is a pile of cash going to fall out of the sky and save him from himself?... Spike held the knife in his hand and tried so hard to make a cut, but he relented and sat back in his soggy box. “Why was I even born!?” Spike asked before he sobbed, he wondered what he’ll do, maybe he’ll finish tomorrow… for now… NO, he’s suffered enough, the world won’t help him, so why bother? “Ok… here we go…” Spike said as he raised the knife… annnd- STEP STEP STEP SPLASH STEP STEP STEP… “Huh?...” Spike noticed some footsteps echoing about the alleyway… great… a passerby… well if it isn’t someone who will try to mug a broke man again they’ll probably walk past without dropping a penny for him. He’d still rather they not witness a suicide, so he’ll wait… The figure's footsteps got closer and closer and… stopped. “Hmm?” Spike looked to see a pair of feet standing outside his box the person didn’t move for a whole minute. “Take a picture and move on, it’ll last longer,” Spike bitterly said. “Hmm… how unfortunate, a person at the end of their rope, I can help you sir,” The voice of an elderly man said. “I don’t need pity or your charity, I plan on ending it tonight, so you’ll be wasting your money,” Spike said. “I can help you get your life back on track sir, please just come out,” The voice said. “I said go away,” the young man said. “I am afraid I cannot in good conscience leave until I have helped you,” He said. “I have a knife, is that incentive enough to leave?” Spike said poking his head out of the box. “Why are you so resistant to receiving my help?” He asked, now that Spike got a good look at him he saw the man had grey skin and a white mustache, he looked fancy, and he was carrying a suitcase. “Will you leave if I come out and hear your sales pitch?” Spike asked. “I am not selling anything, come out,” He said. “Fine…” Spike sighed and he stepped out into the pouring rain, showing his ratty clothes and dirt. “My my, a poor soul indeed,” He said. “DId you call me out of my box to insult me?” Spike asked. “Nono, just an observation, but more importantly, I have an offer for you-” He said and as he talked Spike rolled his eyes, looks like was trying to sell something… Until he said…. “And to this end, I will give you all the money in this briefcase,” He said. “...Wha?” Spike said sounding surprised. “Yes, you see, I run a money lending job, helping the weary recover from their troubles, and all it takes is you shaking my hand,” He said extending his hand. “....What?” Spike said. “Shake my hand,” He repeated. “I heard that but… you're just giving me free money?... how much is in that suitcase?...” Spike said expecting only a hundred or less as some kind of sick- “See for yourself,” He opened the suitcase…. And Spike was in shock… Money, so much, there had to be a lottery’s worth in there! “....What’s the catch?... There has to be one,” Spike said. “No catch… except…” He trailed off “I will return in ten or so years expecting it back, with interest,” He said. “...Interest?” Spike asked warily. “Yes, part of my job is receiving back the money I loan you, not the exact same bills but I do expect full restitution and then some in ten years, given that this is enough money to help you get back on track, I’d say you should be able to meet the price,” He said with a grin. “What’s the final price?” Spike asked. “That is to be revealed on the day of collection, this offer only comes once, if you say no and I leave, you’ll never see it again,” He said. “...Who are you?” Spike asked. “Just call me V, now do we have a deal?” V said. “I-I…I…” Spike was in shock, here he was about to end his life and some stranger came out of nowhere and is handing him the cash he needed… This has to be a dream… “Yeees? No?” He asked. “I don’t know…” Spike was stuttering at this, it was almost too suspicious. “You are free to turn down my offer, just as I am to leave and find another unfortunate, good day,” V said closing the case and walking away. “...Wait… WAIT!” Spike ran after him and the man turned around with a smile. “Oh? Changed our mind have we?” V asked. “I need that money… it’ll save me, but… why? Why hand me all this just out of the blue?” Spike asked. “It’s just business, now, do we have a deal or do I keep walking?” V asked extending his hand. “...” Spike could think of a million ways this is a trap… but… there was something inside, something he’d long lost… a glimmer of hope, that he could turn his life around with this money… “I-I…. I accept,” Spike said shaking his hand. “Good choice young chap, here you go,” V said handing him the money case “Pleasure doing business with you, see you in ten years, give or take,” V said tilting his hat before he walked off and vanished around the corner. Spike stood there, processing this all, he waited to wake up in his soaked cardboard box, penniless and without hope…. But he didn’t… he looked down into the case and saw money in at least the millions. It really happened… it really did… he got his wish for a new start, and now that he had this money he had to get moving before a mugger or a criminal came for it. “Thank you…” Spike sobbed gratefully and he ran off with it, as he left the alleyway a foot stepped down in a puddle in the shadows nearby. “Heheh… you're welcome…” V said as he pulled up a list and crossed off a name. Ten years later Life used to be utter turmoil for him, but now, things are all better. Spike drove home in his new car, things had finally looked up for him. Once more let’s recap After getting the money he ran around for awhile and decided on a hot meal for the first time in so long. Then, he got to work. He managed to recover his life, bought a house, got a car, and managed to fix all his legal needs, and he still had plenty left over! He got a job at an office firm, made his money woes vanish, recovered his health, and best yet. At the office, he met the woman of his dreams, her name was Rarity. They were married with kids in five years. Two sons, Lance and a newborn named Blue Scout, but they all just called him Scout for short. Spike had never been happier, and his life was finally his. But it’s always when we’re on top of the world… that we fall off… Spike exited his car and carried several presents, ready for Scout's first birthday. “Daddy!” Lance ran over to him and hugged him. “Hey there little guy!” Spike hugged him while trying to not drop the presents. “Daddy daddy! I lost a tooth today!” He said. “Oh, you weren’t jumping off of the water heater again were you?” Spike said as he carried the stuff inside. “Noooo,” Lance said obviously lying. “Lance I told you not to, you could get hurt,” Spike said. “Hi honey,” Rarity said as she walked in, carrying Scout. “Hey there sweetie, and hey there little man,” Spike kissed them both. “How are the presents coming along?” Rarity asked rocking Scout. “Wonderful sweetie, I imagine this will be the best birthday ever, isn’t that right little man,” Spike tickled the belly of the baby and he giggled. “I wanna help make the cake!” Lance exclaimed. “Ok sweetie, let’s get on that,” Rarity said as she headed back into the living room to set the baby down for his nap. “And meanwhile I’ll go fetch us some coffees, we’ll need them for this coming party prep,” Spike said. “Don’t be long!” Rarity said as he made his way to the door and went out into the neighborhood. Spike made this way down into the nearby shop areas and picked up a couple of coffees, as he made his way out of the shop he bumped into someone. “Oh, sorry sir, I-” Spike froze when he saw who it was… “Oh! Fancy meeting you here young man, I do apologize for being late, but it’s ten years on the dot,” V said with a smile. “Y-you,” Spike said taking a step back. “What? Did you forget our deal?” V asked. “N-no, I just didn’t think we’d meet again today… um, hey, can we do this tomorrow? It’s my son's birthday today and-” “I’m afraid not, the time is up, where is my money?” V asked. “L-look, you gave me alot of money, it’s going to take a little longer to-” “That wasn’t the deal, I said I would return in ten years for the money you owe me, so hand it over,” V said. “O-ok! Let me just check my bank account,” Spike said as he pulled out his phone and went to his account. He had a couple thousand thanks to his job and some of the money from the loan V gave him. “Ok, how much is it?” Spike asked just wanting this interaction to be over with. “Let’s see,” V said pulling out a clipboard out of nowhere and checking some things. “Huh?” Spike said noticing this. “Hmmm…. It says here you owe me… one quadrillion dollars,” V said. “.......What?” Spike said stepping back in shock at the number he just heard. “One quadrillion dollars,” V repeated. “N-no, I-I can’t possibly repay that much! How did it get that high?!” Spike said in horror. “Your amount raised every now and then since the agreement, I did say there would be interest, but I am willing to let there be a couple more days to get me the money,” V said with a chuckle. “You- you snake you tricked me!” Spike said. “Technically I said no lies, sure I omitted a little but I said everything that was said truthfully,” V said. “I don’t have that money!” Spike said. “Figure it out, you have two days,” V said as he walked away and vanished into the crowd. “No…” Spike said looking like his world was crashing down. As the party was going on Spike continued looking like he was wracking his brain trying to figure out how he can amass such money in two days. “Honey? Is everything alright?” Rarity asked him. “Y-yeah, I um… need some time,” Spike said as he left for his room. “What is going on with him?” Rarity asked herself. “I have to find another way, and I can’t let Rarity be burdened with this,” Spike said as he sat down on the bed. As he continued thinking he decided the only way forward was taking out another loan from someone else. How else was he going to get this loan shark off his back… for now, the birthday… Two days later Spike made his way down to the coffee shop from the other day and he looked around, he was carrying a briefcase full of the loan money he got from a friend at work, he’ll have to work himself to the bone for the rest of his life to pay it all off, but at least his family’ll be safe. It’s not all of it, but it’s close enough that he hopes he can weasel out of the last hundred thousand or two. “V? I’m here!” Spike called and immediately his eyes landed on the businessman standing near an alleyway, gesturing him to follow him. Spike gulped, knowing this could be bad news but he had no choice, he followed him in and he paused in the middle of the alley… but V wasn’t there? “Huh?” Spike said before it was revealed he was behind him. “Hello again,” V said and Spike spun. “H-how did-” “Never mind that, where’s my money?” V asked. “R-right here,” Spike said handing it over and partially hoping he doesn’t count it. “Alright,” V opened it up and began doing just that. Spike shifted uncomfortably as he counted and when he reached the end he looked up at Spike with a frown. “You're short,” V said. “L-look that was all I could get! If I have more time I can give you more-” ‘Ten years, that was the deal, and you’ve failed to keep your end,” V said with a growl chucking the money at his feet. “W-what are you going to do?” Spike asked nervously as he reached into his jacket, expecting him to shoot him. Instead, he pulled out a pen and paper and read off a part of it. “Spike, failed to keep his promise despite my generous donation,” V drew another line on his name forming an X. “Please! I need more time!” Spike said. “You should have saved up,” V said. “I didn’t know it would be that expensive!” Spike cried. “That is the lesson here, always, expect the worst,” V said before snapping his finger and the list burnt before suddenly the alleyways were blanketed in darkness. “H-Huh?! What’s going on?!” Spike asked. “Your penalty, you made a deal with a demon and now, hell awaits,” V said. “Wh-what? A demon?” Spike asked sounding scared. “That’s right, now that we’re not playing nice anymore I may as well tell you my whole name, Verak, at your service,” Verak said with a mock bow. “N-no way, demons are real?!” Spike backed away fearfully. “Afraid so boy, now how do you want to die?” Verak asked. “N-no please! I have a family now!” Spike begged. “Why should I care?” Verak asked with a sickening smile. “I’ll do anything! Just let me go!” Spike begged. Suddenly he paused. “Huh?” Spike said. “Anything, you say?” Verak asked. “Yes,” Spike said. “Hmmm maybe… it could take some of the workload off of me, mortal, I am willing to grant you a reprieve,” Verak said. “Y-you are?” Spike asked. “On the grounds that you perform, a favor for me,” V said. “Anything,” Spike said. “Heheh, follow me,” Verak approached a wall and drew a symbol on it, opening a portal and when Spike hesitated he waved him in. “Ok ok,” Spike said as he entered. Suddenly the alleyway returned to normal and the symbol vanished. Spike stumbled into what looked like a dusty but big office and looked around. He saw a doghouse in the corner and a desk where Verak was sitting in. “Welcome to my office,” Verak said. “...Where the hell am I?” Spike asked. “As you just said, hell, a very specific part of it too, now, here’s the deal mortal,” Verak pointed to a chair and Spike sat down. “I have quite the workload lately and haven’t had a chance to pursue more of my human deals or relax, therefore I am sending you on some errands for me,” Verak said. “Like?” Spike asked. “Retrieving my contracts from the demons who owe me as you do,” Verak said. “Demons?” Spike repeated. “Yes, I deal not only with humans but demons as well, but where as humans will rely on dirty tactics to avoid having to pay up when the time arrives, demons seem to think they're above it and will refuse outright to pay me back, I was going to go and tear them limb from limb but I find this prospect more entertaining, I want you to go fetch the contracts I made with these other demons, do so, and I’ll call your debt settled,” Verak said. “Contracts? But I didn’t get a contract,” Spike said. “Yes, but that is because you mortals aren’t troublesome enough to require it, these particular demons are, if it isn’t written on paper it’s not valid, that’s the law here,” Verak said. “Alright… how do I find these-” “Let me worry about that, for now just get me those contracts, if you fail I’ll raise the stakes on your punishment for wasting my time,” Verak said. “How?” Spike asked nervously. “You’ll give me your children,” Verak said. “What?...” Spike said looking horrified. “My hounds are in need of new chew toys anyways,” Verak gestured to the doghouse holding a pair of bloodthirsty-looking dogs who were growling hungrily. “N-no! You can’t that’s horrible!” Spike exclaimed. “Then don’t fail me,” Verak said “I’m setting my watch for two days, clocks ticking,” Verak said. “You sadistic-” Spike said wanting to hit him but Verak grinned. “If you want to fight me, you’ll find that’s a lose-only situation, think carefully,” Verak said. Spike sighed and stood up “Fine… where do I start?” Spike asked. Be silent... he is listening...“I visited a zoo or two awhile back, why?” Spike asked. “Get ready to visit a zoo with a… unique assortment,” Varek said with a smile as he wrote something down and handed it to Spike “Don’t read that, take it to the one known as Kruger, he’ll know what to do with it,” Varek said. “Ooook?” Spike still didn’t fully or really at all trust Varek but he had no choice. “I will assure you things are getting more complicated as time goes on, speaking of which time is running out, I’d say you only have a day and an hour left,” Varek said taking a puff of his cigar. “Alright,” Spike said as he turned and left the office, he couldn’t help but take note of the picture on the portal. It looked like a walrus… ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be silent… he is listening… ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike made his way out of the portal and saw what looked like a trashy place. It looked like a mix between a junkyard and a zoo, with cages and piles of garbage strewn about the place. “Ugh, whoever owns this place doesn’t take very good care of it,” Spike said as he walked in. “Turn back…” A weak voice croaked and Spike jumped and turned to one of the cages and saw what looked like a fake gorilla-headed person cowering in a cage. “Oh my gosh, are you ok?” Spike ran over and he saw the thin-looking man in a cage. “Forget me… this is my punishment, but you need to hide,” He whispered. “Why?” Spike asked a little too loudly. “Not so loud! He’s got really good ears!” The prisoner whispered harshly. “Who?” Spike asked quieter. “Kru-” Suddenly a yell overcame the area and they glanced to see a huge figure running for them. “Too late!” The man crawled to cover. Spike stood there frightened as the huge man barreled towards him, but when he thought he was going to attack he changed direction and ran up to the cage and bellowed something that sounded like… “BAD GORILLA! BAD! YOU ARE ONLY ALLOWED TO TALK LIKE A MONKEY!” The man bellowed while throwing a soda can at him. “Eeep! Oook ook!” The man cowered under the gaze of the man. “Not good enough! No dinner tonight!” He barked at him before standing up and turning to Spike, Spike actually had to look up at this guy he was so tall. “Heehee! A new guest! Sorry you had to see that, this dumb monkey won’t do it again, RIGHT?!” He shot a glare at him and the man nodded numbly. “Good! My name is Kruger by the way, Kruger the walrus,” The man stepped into the light and Spike took note that he looked like a man wearing a burlap outfit modeled after a bipeadal walrus wearing overalls. His tusks looked real though… “U-uh hi?... Why is that man in a cage?” Spike asked. “What man? I only see my idiot pet gorilla,” Kruger said with a head tilt. “Huh?” Spike said. “This guy isn’t super bright, and he’s super obsessive about animals,” Varek said. “Ah…” Spike said. “Well? Come on! Let’s get you fixed up newcomer!” Kruger said as he turned and walked off and Spike hesitantly followed. “Um… actually I’m just here to-” Spike said but Kruger spoke first. “Take my contract, I know,” Kruger said. “How do you-” Spike asked but Kruger cut him off again. “My buddies Topsy and Darla warned me you’d come, but no need to worry, I’m handing it over,” Kruger said as he went over to a cage with two people with lion masks on. Looking closer Spike could see the full-head masks were sown on… he wanted to puke at this place, a place where humans are debased and treated worse than animals. But it wouldn’t be hell if people were happy, would it?... Spike made his way to the cage with the lions along with Kruger. “Hello my little lions, I’m coming for the safe,” Kruger said as he opened the cage and the two people dressed as lions cowered in the back of their cages as he walked in and picked the safe up. “What do you say?...” Kruger asked. “R-rawr…” One said. “Meow…” The other said. “Good!” Kruger left the cage and closed it behind him. “Alrighty! Here ya go!” Kruger said handing Spike a piece of paper after opening the safe. “Thanks,” Spike said as he took the contract thankful at least one demon was being reasonable. “Give him the paper,” Varek said. “Huh?” Spike asked. “The one I gave you,” Varek reminded him. “Oh, ok,” Spike said getting the paper out of his pocket and handing it to Kruger. “Oh! A message for me? Okay!” Kruger said as he read it… and his expression suddenly looked happy. “Is everything okay?” Spike asked. “Yeah, yeah, just go,” Kruger said as he waved Spike off. “Ooook?” Spike said as he turned to leave… and a sudden jolt of electricity shocked him and he cried out and fell to the ground. As he laid there Kruger stood over him chuckling. “Did you really think I was going to give it to you?” Kruger said as he tossed his cattle prod aside, picked the paper up and put it into the safe again. “No…” Spike grunted as he was hoping this guy would be the one to just give it to him but guess not. Kruger walked around him and showed him Varek's letter. ‘You can have him,’ “What?...” Spike said in shock. “I was going to take you anyways, but I guess he wanted you to know how expendable you are to him, heheheh, don’t worry, you're in good hands now…” Kruger chuckled as he picked up Spike and carried him away. “.....VAREK!” Spike cried as he was dragged off. “Heheheheh, thought it might make things more interesting if I gave him an incentive,” Varek said with a laugh. Spike woke up on a surgical table and he looked around before noticing he was tied up, he struggled but he couldn’t escape. “Now that you're in the thick of it-” Varek said before Spike shouted. “Shut up! You sold me out!” Spike said. “I simply issued a challenge to have you try harder, you’ve been getting a little more cocky as of late,” Varek chuckled. “You sadistic-” “Who are you talking to?” A voice said and Spike turned to see a guy wearing a cheetah mask asked quietly. “A jerk who I owe a debt to…” Spike sighed. “I-” Suddenly the door was kicked open and Kruger walked in and glowed at the cheetah guy. “What did I say about TALKING?!” Kruger growled. “S-sorry!” The guy whimpered. “You're still talking…” Kruger growled again. “M-meow…” He cowered under Kruger's wrathful gaze. “You’ll get a beating later, for now, I have a new animal friend to make,” Kruger said before turning to Spike with none of the menace from before “Alrighty! Now what to make you… hmm,” Kruger hummed in thought. “I am NOT your animal!” Spike cried. “Yes you are!” Kruger slammed his fist down on the table denting it. “Tch!” Spike tried to struggle some more. “Hmm… a goat?.... No, a panda?.... No… a doggy?” Kruger walked around before getting an epiphany “Topsy said you were a slippery one… know what else is slippery?... Ferrets! I love ferrets!” Kruger said eagerly and he went over to a closet and opened it before digging through several animal masks and pulling out one of a ferret. “I-I don’t even know what sound ferrets make!” Spike cried. “Just go squeak from now one little ferret! I’m going to make you my newest little pet!” Kruger said setting the ferret's head on a struggling Spike and standing back. “Hmm.. now how to do this…? Staples? Nails?... Eh, I’ll just sow it in,” Kruger approached a table and picked up a needle and a string. “No! Don’t!” Spike cried. “Don’t worry little ferret! I’ll be quick,” Kruger said as he leaned in with the needle and… Suddenly the cage door flew open and Spike saw the cheetah guy book it through the door. “HUH?! HEY! Get back here cheetah! I haven’t neutered you yet!” Kruger yelled chasing after him. “Huh? What just-” “I just bought you five minutes,” Varek said. “Why-” “Because I want to see if you can escape Kruger,” Varek said. “Ok…” Spike said before he thrashed around trying to get free and the table fell over, on the ground Spike saw a surgical saw and he shook his head to get the mask off before he reached his head forward and grabbed the saw with his teeth and used it to cut himself free. Spike managed to get free and he hurried out the door. Only to run into a figure as he turned a corner and he saw it was Kruger carrying an unconscious prisoner. “Hey! What are you doing out of bed? Bad ferret!” Kruger said dropping the cheetah-masked guy and reaching down for Spike. “Leave me alone!” Spike got up in time and skidded back avoiding the grab. “Ngh! Get back here Ferret! You're not complete!” Kruger lunged at Spike and he dodged and Kruger hit the ground with a loud thud. “Nope!” Spike ran down the hallways as Kruger got up. “You don’t wanna be my animal friend?... THEN YOU CAN DIE!” Kruger yelled after Spike who shut a door behind him and ran on. He spotted shards and he ran for them. Spike collected shards as he ran through the halls of the building he was in. As Spike made his way down an adjacent hallway the door that it led to busted down and he paused as he saw Kruger wielding a large chainsaw. “Heheheh. There’s still a chance… be my pet, or die,” Kruger said. “Not a chance, you psychopath,” Spike said. “Then die!” Kruger sprinted forward and swung his chainsaw at Spike who jumped out of the way and ran for it before he lost a leg. “GET BACK HERE!” Kruger chased Spike with his chainsaw. “Aaaah!” Spike cried as he ran down some stairs and collected his shards, as he ran down another hallway he was surprised by Kruger just going through the wall. “WHAT THE?!” Spike cried as Kruger pinned him. “Heheheheheh, bad ferret, dead ferret!” Kruger said before running Spike through with the chainsaw. 3 lives left “Looks like you not as slippery as a real ferret,” Spike got up back at the office he escaped from. “Ugh…” Spike said as he got up, before he could question anything he heard a cry of dismay from afar, meaning Kruger might be wondering where he vanished to. “Gotta move,” Spike said as he ran and collected shards from the other side of the building. As Spike went down some stairs he heard Kruger calling out for him. “FERRET! WHERE ARE YOU LITTLE FERRET?!” Kruger yelled as he started bashing walls down. “Not good,” Spike said as he ran on down a corner hallway and he saw a bridge nearby, he decided to take it and cross to the otherside. As he ran he looked and saw more cages with more people contained inside them. As Spike was thinking about how wrong this is he heard a shout and he looked up to see Kruger having jumped out of a window and landing in front of him. “There you are ferret!” Kruger said before he ran after Spike and swung his chainsaw. Spike dodged and fell back against the railing, Kruger turned and raised the chainsaw and swung it down, Spike dodged an attack that would have cleaved him in half and ran around Kruger who ran after him. “RAAAAAH!” Kruger yelled as he chased after Spike, Spike tried to slow him down using a door but Kruger bashed it down and chased him into a hallway leading to a lobby area. Spike collected the shards here but found that he was cornered. Spike turned and saw Kruger closing in. “Vanish!” Spike said and he disappeared and avoided the swing. “Huh? Where did the ferret go?” Kruger asked as he looked around… and then he heard footsteps to his right… “There you are!” Kruger turned and grabbed Spike before raising him into the air and slamming him down, hard. 2 lives left “Looks like you're getting thrown to the vultures, don’t worry, they’re hungry enough to want it,” Varek taunted. Spike wasted no time shaking the dizziness from his head and getting moving. “Where’s the exit?” Spike demanded. “Take the hallway to your left,” Varek said and Spike made a beeline for where Varek directed him. Eventually, he found himself outside the building and he looked around, finding himself in the twisted zoo with more shards. He ran towards the shards and began collecting them as quickly as he could, as he collected them he ran past several cages that had varying people with varying masks in them, seeing someone resisting their oppressor made them speak. “Yeah! Show Kruger!” a guy with a penguin mask cheered. “Go!” A woman wearing a frog mask said. Spike nodded at them and ran on, knowing there was nothing he could do for them. Unfortunately, not all of them were on Spike's side. “Hey! Kruger! He’s over here!” A man wearing a bunny mask called. “Wha?” Spike said as Kruger rounded a corner having heard that. “Sorry, but kissing up gets you better treatment,” The man shrugged. “Thanks a lot!” Spike said as he ran away from Kruger who made a break for Spike. Spike ran around the park as the crazed walrus man chased him and he was gaining on him... “You won’t leave!” Kruger said as he jumped at Spike and Spike cried out as he felt a slash across his back and it knocked him over. As Spike laid there Kruger picked him up aimed his head back and drove his tusks into Spike. 1 life remaining “Maybe the option to be his pet ferret is still open?” Varek taunted. Spike got up and looked around, he was outside the building again, not waiting for Kruger to find him again he ran into an area he hadn’t gone to. As he grabbed some more shards he ran into an area that was mainly just junk piles and he hid when he heard the roar of a chainsaw. Looking around he saw Kruger making his way into the area, Spike watched him until he left and he made his way into the next area. As Spike made it there he saw the last few shards were there. Spike made his way over and collected them. “Whew, where is it?” Spike asked. “In a habitat nearby,” Varek said and Spike nodded and went to the nearest habitat and saw it was a pit with water and a rock in the middle, where a safe lie. “This seems too easy,” Spike said suspiciously. “Never know,” Varek said as Spike slid down the arching wall and he swam over to the rock and claimed the contract. As he turned he saw a walrus head poking out of the water. “...Please tell me you're not Kruger,” Spike pleaded. “Heeheeheeh…” The figure suddenly rose out of the water and raised his saw. “AH!” Spike jumped out of the way of a slash that would have taken his head. “FORGET BEING A FERRET! Food for my other pets is what you can be!” Kruger said before he swung his chainsaw at Spike wildly. “Bad time to let you know this is your last chance?” Varek said. “Seriously?!” Spike said as he tried to scramble up the wall and he managed to grab the ledge and climb out. Kruger climbed out as well and he lunged and swung his tusks down at him. “AGH!” Spike rolled out of the way and he got up and ran for it while Kruger was pulling his tusks out of the ground. Spike ran around the corner and slid on the ground a little. As he got up he ran for it as Kruger rounded a corner and ran after Spike with a frenzied look in his eyes. “I’LL RIP YOU TO PIECES!” Kruger yelled as he chased Spike into the pathways of the zoo. As Spike made his way around he heard Varek chuckling. “What could you be laughing about?!” Spike cried. “This is simply amusing,” Varek said. “SHUT UP!” Spike cried as he could practically hear the swishes of the chainsaw behind him. Spike rounded a corner and ran for the exit to this hellish place amidst the cheers of the other prisoners and Kruger narrowly missed a swing. Seeing Spike running for the exit he growled. “NO! NONONO! YOU BELONG TO MEEEE!” Kruger screamed before throwing his chainsaw like a projectile. “AAAH!” Spike turned and saw the saw flying at him. It was going to impale him, he was doomed! And his family… he could see his children being given to those monster hounds, his wife grieving their vanishing, and the fact that in the end… he’ll cease to exist… “I’m sorry… I did my best,” Spike said preparing for the stab. … …. ….. “No!” A sudden voice cried and suddenly a light emanated in front of Spike and it manifested a figure who struck the chainsaw away. “HUH?!” Kruger exclaimed. “What the?” Spike said as he fell on the ground. “Go, I won’t let him hurt you,” She said. “Your kind can’t be here… it’s the law!” Kruger growled getting up. “I took my chance,” She said before turning to Spike and nodding. Spike was in awe, but he knew what she was telling him and he took this chance to run into the portal. “NOOOO!” Kruger cried trying to run at the being but she vanished before he could grab her. Getting up Kruger looked around and hit the ground in frustration. “She can’t be here…” Kruger said. YOU ESCAPED! Spike tumbled to the ground and before he could get up he was picked up by Verak. “You sly human! You employed one of them?!” Varek said his eyes giving off a grey glow. “Wh-what? What are you-” “DON’T LIE TO ME! That was an angel! How did one get down here?!” Varek demanded. “I-I don’t know!” Spike pleaded. “Hnngh… I sense you are telling the truth… I will investigate this, but this will cost you,” Varek said setting Spike down and walking back to his seat. “How?” Spike said. “You will have one less try, and I’m upping the price to your wife as well,” Varek said. “WHAT?!” Spike said as he looked ready to fight him but Varek’s eyes glowed brighter. “You’d be wise not to raise my blood pressure child…” Varek said. Spike backed off but still looked taken aback by these events, an angel?... who is this angel and why is she helping him?... Next time: Amidst a red background a huge fat creature with multiple legs is staring at the viewer, making loud wheezing noises. Author's Note Told ya it'd be dark, but we finally have an appearance of the mysterious being speaking to Spike, who is she? And more is to come soon, I work tomorrow so maybe not immediately. Nice to eat youSpike stood there, nervously, he’d never been particularly religious but to learn that it was real… it’s a shame he found out this way… “Alright, I will aid you in some ways to make sure this goes off without a hitch,” Verak said. “You will?” Spike asked. “Don’t mistake anything, I expect you to die quickly, so I simply want to see how far you can get with extra tries and various abilities, watching this will be the most fun I’ve had in eons,” Verak chuckled before lighting a cigar in preparation for the coming events. “Why am I not surprised,” Spike sighed knowing there was no kindness in this man/demon. “Now look, you’ll be given the power to teleport out of various situations in which you're about to die, but not every time,” He said. “Why not every time!?” Spike asked. “Where is the motivation without a little danger?” Verak chuckled “And if you die in the process it's no skin off my nose, I’ll just pick up where you left off, I’ll call this situation a mini vacation, the first one I’ve had in ages,” He snorted. “...Ok,” Spike sighed knowing he risks lowering his chances by picking a fight with this guy. “One more thing, don’t expect them to just hand it over, they will undoubtedly try to kill you to buy themselves more time, if they don’t hand it over then take it by force, how you do it, I don’t care, just collect soul shards until its location reveals itself,” Verak said. “Soul-” “Fragmented human souls, I won’t give anymore explanation, the time is ticking as we speak,” Verak said. “Ok, ok, where do I go first?” Spike asked. “Out the door, I have a portal set up to send you to the first location, a place called the Smiling Burger, a quaint restaurant in the circle of gluttony,” Verak said. “Hell has restaurants?” Spike asked. “The things you don’t know about hell could fill several oceans, go,” Verak waved him off. “Ok,” Spike said as he entered the portal. “Heheheh… he’s gonna be torn to shreds, I better put on popcorn,” Verak laughed. -------------------------------------------------------------- Nice to eat you -------------------------------------------------------------- Spike exited and found himself in a small hallway that led towards an area full of chairs and tables and a counter with a figure working on something, he couldn’t quite see what he looked like. “Uuuuhh…” Spike was too scared to move, not knowing where he was. “Move along mortal,” Verak’s voice said in his head. “HUH?!” Spike looked around. “Don’t look so surprised, I’m watching you,” Verak said. “O-ok,” Spike said knowing he had to get moving or the two days would be up, so he made his way up to a greeter counter where another figure hidden by a wall was working on something. “H-hello?” Spike asked hesitantly. “Hm?...” The being paused and turned to see Spike. And Spike screamed… This thing wasn’t human at all! It had skin as yellow as a lemon, a giant head, arms longer than normal, a hairless head, bloodshot eyes, and a huge perpetual grin. A grin that somehow got wider as it looked at him. “Hello! Nice to see a human here, how may we serve you?” He said joyfully as he wiped a little drool off his mouth. “U-uh…” Spike didn’t know what to say. “Ugh, you humans always freeze up when you see a demon, they are called Chipper Rippers, be careful, they possess the souls of cannibals,” Verak said sounding annoyed. “Thanks for the encouragement,” Spike said quietly before returning to the creature. “I-I want to speak to a manager, I… have a message from a certain somebody,” Spike meekly asked. “Sure thing! Follow me,” He said as he turned and walked away and Spike hesitantly followed. As he walked he found the interior of the building was bigger than a normal fast food place. He felt eyes on him everywhere… he looked around and saw multiple Chipper Rippers cleaning off tables now staring at him… one even licked his lips. “Ulp…” Spike said. “Hey, Phil! We got fresh meat- ah I mean a fresh face,” The ripper said to the figure, as the figure turned Spike took a step back, he was taller than the other Chipper Rippers, and bigger too, he was quite fat. “Huh? A human? Goodie, what can we get ya?” Phil asked with a narrowing of his eyes. “I-I came here on the behalf of Verak, and-” Spike didn’t get any further as the being slammed his hand down on the counter. “For the love of hellfire, I’ll get that contract to him when I get it to him!” Phil growled. “L-look, I’m just the messenger, but Verak said it's time,” Spike said. “Well, screw him, I run a successful burger joint, and I don’t want to lose it just because a level four demon got greedy,” Phil spat. “Heheh, he has no idea how outmatched he is,” Varek said in Spike's head. “Varek insists,” Spike nervously said not hearing footsteps behind him. “I said no! What are you going to do about it human?” Phil asked. “I-I-I…” Spike gulped again but he said “I’ll have to take it then,” Spike said. “HAHAHAHAHAHA!” Phil laughed with the other Chipper Rippers and leaned in closely. “You're not doing anything…. Besides dying,” Phil said. “W-what?” Spike said. “First rule of the Smiling Burger, we don’t get to eat… unless our food comes to us…” Phil said. Spike suddenly felt surrounded and turned to see a Ripper with a butcher knife raised behind him. “AAAH!” Spike dodged the swing and ran. “GET HIM!” A Chipper Ripper yelled as he tried to tackle Spike who vaulted over a table and avoided him. “WE’RE EATIN TONIGHT BOYS!” Phil yelled. “He’s pretty skinny, we outta fatten him up first!” Another Ripper laughed maniacally. “I call the eyes!” Another said as they pursued Spike around the tables. “Where do I go!?” Spike asked struggling to avoid them. “There’s doors to the rest of the restaurant you idiot,” Verak said and Spike saw the doors next to the counters and ran for them. “Stop him!” Phil yelled as he came out from behind the counter and tried to grab Spike but he avoided and ran through the back door. After getting through he barricaded it with a mop. Spike was panting heavily and turned to see the rest of the restaurant, it was bigger than any restaurant he knew, and built like a maze! “Better move, that’s not going to hold them forever,” Varek said while audibly eating popcorn. “Ok ok!” Spike ran through the dining area and he looked around, he saw purple crystals floating around. “Are those-” Spike paused when he heard crashing noises and he turned a corner and saw the Rippers pouring in. “Yes, better start collecting before you’re eaten,” Verak said. Suddenly an intercom beeped and Spike looked up at one. “Attention all Rippers, the one who catches him get’s first bite! If I see more than one you all get a beating! So get to it!” Phil ordered and the Chipper Rippers started swarming the area. “Crap crap crap!” Spike said as he ran further in and started collecting shards. As he ran around several tables and down a pathway deeper in a Ripper turned a corner and began chasing him. “NO!” Spike turned and ran. “GET BACK HERE YOU DELICIOUS MORSEL!” He yelled as he threw his knife at him and Spike ducked it. “Not a chance!” Spike rounded the corner and collected more shards before spotting another one standing in his way. Spike managed to skid to a stop and he ran down another path to his right as that one swung its knife at him. Spike pulled a few chairs down and they tripped up on them. Spike turned a corner and collected more shards before another Ripper suddenly tackled him down from around a corner. Spike looked up in terror as he opened his mouth widely and chomped him. 3 lives left “At least you died delicious, hahaha!” Varek taunted “I’m dead… I’m dead…. I’m… huh?” Spike looked around and saw he was back at the beginning “How did-” “I saved you, you're welcome, now continue on, it’s too early for you to die, my vacation just started,” Varek said sounding annoyed. “Gee thanks,” Spike sighed as he got up and resumed running into the restaurant. He ran around the tables and saw blood on some. “Their last meals no doubt,” Varek said. “I have to hurry!” Spike said before a Chipper Ripper threw a knife at Spike and it clipped his cheek. “Agh!” Spike grunted and he looked to see the Ripper. “Dang I missed!” He growled. “The sight of blood just makes me hungrier!” Spike turned and saw a Ripper blindside him with a chair sending him into a wall and he cast the chair aside and brandished his butcher knife before swinging it at him, Spike twisted his body avoiding the swing which was planted in the wall. Spike ran but the creature grabbed him with his longer arm and threw him and Spike tumbled through a table and onto the ground. Spike saw a Ripper leap at him but he picked up a chair and held it in front of him preventing the Ripper from biting him. He snapped his jaws like a wild animal and grabbed at Spike while the other was rounding the corner. “GET. OFF!” Spike shouted as he kicked the Ripper's leg and he fell over and Spike got up and ran into the restaurant as the other threw a chair at him but missed. “DANG IT!” The Ripper growled and he chased Spike but Spike lost him quickly. “These things are crazy!” Spike said. “Well they are cannibals, they lived their lives feasting and torturing their own kind, and now, they are starved slaves to a business,” Verak said. “Great to know!” Spike said as he heard more shouts behind him and saw several Rippers behind him, swishing their butcher knives at him. “AAAAHH!” Spike ran around the edge of the restaurant and dove over a table avoiding several thrown knives. He got up and hid as the Rippers ran past his spot, he was shaking in fear the whole time. As he peeked around the corner to see if there were any more… before a slash from a knife got him in the eye. “AAAH!” Spike cried as the slash blinded him in one eye. “Gotcha!” A Chipper Ripper laughed before he lunged forward and swung his knife, Spike reacted fast enough to pull a table over and the creature tripped and landed neck first on his own knife. Spike looked shocked that he had just unintentionally killed one… but no, he had no choice… He turned to leave the Ripper on the floor, bleeding, when suddenly he was grabbed and turned around. “Did I say you could leave mortal?” The Same Chipper Ripper asked with an evil smile as his neck regenerated before he raised his knife and swung down into Spike’s face. 2 Lives left “Dining in are we? Maybe they’ll at least season you first,” Varek said boredly. Spike got up in shock at the entrance and looked around, in shock he felt his eye and inexplicably found it healed. “You gotta stop getting caught, or do you not want me to spare your kids after all?” Varek asked. “NO! I-I just need time,” Spike said as he got up “How did he survive?” Spike asked. “Demons can't die in hell by a mortals hand, it's a fact, and not just because humans are weak, but because you literally can’t kill them, now move!” Varek ordered. “Ok ok!” Spike said as he ran into the dining area again. He ran through the dining area and found more shards on the side that he hadn’t visited yet, as he made his way through the winding corridors he rounded a corner and a knife narrowly missed him and he turned to see three Rippers. “There he is!” One said. “Get back I saw him first!” Another said. “Mine mine mine!” Another said as they all approached him, with knives in hand and the other reaching out for him. Spike was about to run the other way but saw another two and he saw he was surrounded. “I want first bite!” One said. “No, me!” Another said. “Don’t make me bite you!” Another one threatened. …Ding! “Alright, you got me,” Spike said raising his hands. “What?” Varek said. “Huh?” The Rippers said. “But why do you have to wait until Phil says so, why doesn’t at least one of you get to enjoy yourselves?” Spike said praying this works. “Whaddya mean?” The Ripper up front asked. “He said first come first serve right? Whose gonna be the one?” Spike asked. “....” They glanced at eachother. “I say you all get to enjoy yourselves… after you figure out who gets to eat me first, you're all hungry aren’t you?” Spike asked. “You sly dog,” Varek chuckled. “....MINE!” One Ripper lunged but another pulled him back and tried to lunge, another tackled him down. “HE’S MINE!” He said. “Eff off!” Another said but a Ripper punched him and tried to grab Spike and pretty soon they were all fighting over who got Spike. “Alright, good luck,” Spike said as he stepped away from their scuffle. Spike managed to sneak away and fled into the evil restaurant and he collected more shards. Hearing shouts in the distance Spike knew they’d figured out they’d been tricked and he hurried along. Spike made his way around a corner and into an area with drink fountains and two Rippers leaped over a windowless hole in the wall and swung at him. Spike was adapting, however, and he slid on the ground under the swing and between them. As he got up he collected more shards while avoiding his pursuers and he ran into a kitchen area containing more shards, the two Rippers blocked him on either side. “I’m so hungry!” One said. “I want to eat!” the other said and they climbed onto the counters and jumped at him, Spike ducked and rolled as the two tumbled over eachother. “You're getting better at this, I may have more fun watching this than expected,” Verak laughed. “Yeah yeah,” Spike sighed as he ran out of the kitchen and into another dining area where the last shards are. “Is there anymore?” Spike asked as he collected. “No, but that’s probably the least of your worries in a minute,” Verak said. “What? What do you-” Shard count 0 Screams filled the restaurant before suddenly everything went silent. “Huh?” Spike became worried. “Heeheehee… eat… must… eeeeaaat…” A warped voice said as a Ripper came out, only he was darkened in color and his eyes were glowing red. He was salivating rivers out of his mouth and he looked completely deranged. “Wh-What the heck?” Spike said. “Frenzy mode, when demons are really mad they enter this state and become even more dangerous, you should run,” Varek casually said. “SKRREEEEE!” The Ripper roared as he ran at Spike chomping at the air like a starved animal. “AAAHH!” Spike ran around the other side and made it back into the main dining area, as he looked around he saw more Chipper Rippers gathering, looking much the same. “SKREEEE!” They all shrieked as Spike bolted to his left. “WHERE IS THE WAY OUT!?” Spike screamed. “First the contract is located in a safe near the exit to the dining area,” Varek said. “Ok!” Spike said as he ran frantically through the area as a dozen Rippers tore through the area, knocking tables and chairs down and even jumping up on the countertops and chasing him. “GIVE US YOUR FLESH!” They howled. “NOT A CHANCE!” Spike cried as he made it to the exit, but before he could make it to the door a Ripper jumped out and took a swing, Spike ducked it and ran to the right where he saw the safe. “What’s the combination?!” Spike frantically asked. “Allow me,” Suddenly the safe glowed and was ripped open. “You could’ve done that sooner!?” Spike cried. “Shut up, I didn’t know where it was until the soul shards powering its barrier were collected,” Varek said. “Ok!” Spike turned and saw the Rippers rounding the corner and they glowered at him. Spike ran forward and grabbed the contract before trying to make a break for the other doors when he ran full-on into a big sturdy figure and fell down. Phil… “You’ve caused enough problems at my restaurant! Forget eating you, I just want you dead!” Phil said brandishing two butcher knives. Spike got up and backed away, turning he saw the other Chipper Rippers were afraid as well. “Heheheheheh, got you all to myself now,” Phil said before he jumped forward with surprising speed and swung both knives down. Spike yelped and dodged around the swings before running around him, only to find two Rippers blocking the exit. “No fair!” Spike turned and ran back into the dining area and Phil was in close pursuit. Spike ran into an area full of chairs, expecting the lead Ripper would trip but to Spike’s horror he just plowed through them and swung for his head. Spike ducked and fled down the pathway back towards the doors. “GET BACK HERE!” Phil yelled as he was gaining on Spike. “I gotta lose him!” Spike cried. “Figure it out,” Varek said. “Hmm,” Spike looked ahead and saw the Rippers blocking the exit… let’s hope this works, he stopped and turned. Phil closed in. “YOU'RE MINE!” Phile lunged. Spike dodged to the side and he wound up plowing right into the Chipper Ripper guarding the door. “OOOOFFFF!” They both crashed through the door and onto the ground. “See ya!” Spike jumped over them and ran away. “STOP HIM!” Phil cried and Spike made his way back out into the entrance area. Five Rippers were guarding the exit, and with Phil getting up in the back, Spike had to get moving. So he ran forward and dodged the first one's stab. He avoids the next two swings. One leaped at him but Spike managed to stop in time and the Ripper wound up crashing over a table. And the last one threw his knife at Spike who ducked and the knife sailed overhead and hit Phil in the face. “OUCH!” Phil cried as he fell over. “Crap!” The Chipper Ripper exclaimed and he ran at Spike who dodged around a table and the Chipper Ripper foolishly chased him around it instead of standing in front of the path to the portal. And Spike ran towards the portal. “NOOOOOO!” Phil screamed as Spike vanished into the portal. YOU ESCAPED! Spike stumbled through the portal and crashed into thin air. “Ooof!” Spike grunted as he fell down. “Good thing I put up that barrier, or you would have damaged my desk,” Verak chuckled. “I… I did it!” Spike breathed a sigh of relief. “Yes you did, I will admit, I figured you’d have been torn limb for limb by now, maybe there’s more to you than meets the eye,” Varek said. “Alright, I got your contract,” Spike said as he handed it over. “Good,” He said. “Can I leave now?” Spike asked and Varek just laughed. “Did you seriously think that was the only one boy? We just started,” Varek said. “...What?” Spike said looking upset to hear that. “There are eleven more to go, and things may only get tougher as you go,” Varek said. “....No way… I barely made it out of there alive!” Spike exclaimed. “If you are so intimidated by it, just give me your children,” Varek said. “....Ok fine, what’s next?...” Spike curses the fact that he is using his children as bargaining chips. “Heheh, how are you on the concept of the occult?” Varek asked. “Huh?” Spike said. Next time: Amidst a red background a shadowy hooded figure with what looks like a fin sticking out of their back is heard muttering something, and echoes of wet footsteps can be heard. Coming soon. Author's Note I understand you may have questions, feel free to ask them, I'll answer some possible ones here. Will there be angels since there are demons? [you'll see, not to sound like Vince] Were the Chipper Rippers named after the Ripper Jacks? [No, it's coincidental] Was there anything about their appearance that symbolized something negative? [no I swear they aren't] Will Spike get powers next chapter? [Yes he will ] Why isn't there alliteration in the level title? [I'll tell you why, it's a little hard to think of one that works, however if you guys have suggestions I'll take it and use it.] Why no swears [I'm uncomfortable with swearing tbh sorry] [And no the fact they have knives isn't a Murder Monkey reference] Sink or swimSpike shifted around uncomfortably. “Not well, I've kinda been busy raising kids to study that,” Spike said. “Well, then you'll be ill-prepared for this next one, you most likely haven't heard of the cult of the Red Fin have you?” Verak said. “Of course I haven't,” Spike said. Verak gave a puff of his cigar before continuing “They're this stupid cult known for blood sacrifice, eating the flesh of their enemies, and praising a giant fish. Their group got their start making a deal with me but now they're late on their payments go and take their contract,” Verak ordered. “You're asking me to take on a bloodthirsty cult?” Spike said fearfully but Varek just gave him a look “ok ok,” Spike said. “One more thing, seeing as the stakes are raised and your survival against the Chipper Rippers has me interested I will grant you an ability,” Verak said. “An ability?” Spike said in shock. “Yes,” Verak waved his hand and a magic glow occurred “You now possess temporary invisibility,” he said. “Wow, how do I -” Spike asked. “Just say vanish,” Verak said “Now get moving I'm getting impatient,” Verak said eating some more popcorn. “Hmmm…” Spike grumbled as he turned and walked through the doorway into the next portal. Sink or swim Spike exited the portal and found himself in what seemed to be a dark partially flooded tunnel “Ugh,” Spike looked down at the calf-level water and he sloshed through the tunnel. “This place gives me the creeps,” Spike said. “So does everything you humans don’t understand,” Verak said. “Where do I go?” Spike asked as he came to a fork in the path. “Right,” Verak said. Spike moved on down that way and eventually, the water got deeper, making it tougher to move around quickly. Spike moved on down the tunnel and eventually as he was beginning to wonder if he was ever going to find the exit he suddenly heard something. “Huh?” Spike got up against the wall to take cover and he looked down the tunnel and saw figures walking around a corner. There were three of them and they had something sticking out of their backs. “What the?” Spike whispered. Suddenly the one in the back paused and turned around. “Eep!” Spike hid by crouching in the dark. The hooded figure looked around before leaving. “Whew,” Spike said before he followed them they made their way down a path until Spike could see a light at the end of the tunnel. As Spike saw them go down a set of stairs and vanish he decided to follow and as he reached the edge of the tunnel he saw what looked like a stereotypical cult room, he saw a bunch of hooded figures all praying and muttering. And the one at an altar reading from a book seemed like the leader. “Harken! We see into the eyes of our leader! But when he looks back! He looks into your soul!” the apparent bishop declared. “Odd,” Spike said. “And now we raise our heads, and growl so that our-... someone's here,” The bishop said as he looked around before pulling his hood back. And Spike's eyes widened upon seeing a hammerhead shark head on the bishop. “H-huh?” Spike said. “What is it Dalso?” Another pulled their hood down, revealing a mako shark. “We have an intruder….. THERE!” The one called Dalso pointed at Spike and the other shark cultists turned around. “Ulp,” Spike gulped. “What business does an unmarked human have to interrupt our sacred ceremony?” Dalso demanded as the other sharks growled. “I-I-I come in peace! I have a message,” Spike said as he hesitantly made his way down the path to Dalso. “Hnngh, no bowing? Filthy human,” Dalso said. “S-sorry,” Spike bowed a little and continued walking up to him as he stopped in front of him he stared into Dalso’s eyes. “Well? What is this important message?” Dalso asked with a suspicious glare. “Th-the time is up on the contract, Varek wants it now,” Spike asked. “.....You interrupt our sacred ceremony to kick us out of our church?! I have half a mind to-” “I’m just the messenger, tell Varek your issues,” Spike said hands up. “You then go on to order the bishop of the Red Fin around?! You simple ape, give me one good reason not to make chum out of you,” Dalso growled. “....I have a family?” Spike meeped. “Then they’ll miss you- hold on…” Dalso paused and sniffed him. “Huh?” Spike said. “Your time isn’t up yet…. Did Verak bring you here directly from the mortal world?” Dalso asked. “Yes?” Spike said. “Shouldn’t have told him that…” Verak audibly facepalmed. “....Hahahahaha! What a fool, does he not know the rules here?” Dalso laughed. “Huh?” Spike said. “Let me make this clear to you, did he not tell you the dangers of a living mortal dying in hell?” Dalso said. “No,” Spike said. “You die here, your soul fades to oblivion, simple as that,” Dalso said. “....What?” Spike said in shock. “Indeed, you’ve been played,” Dalso said. “Varek is this true?” Spike asked. “Yeah, so what?” Varek asked. “....This just got worse,” Spike said. “Indeed,” Dalso grinned showing his sharp teeth. “J-just, please give me the contract and I’ll leave you to you-” Spike was suddenly grabbed by the neck by Dalso. “You think I’ll let you leave after the disrespect you have shown us?! On the contrary, oblivion might be the best teacher for you,” Dalso said before throwing Spike to the ground and the other shark cultists began surrounding him. “It's against schedule but I’ll allow it, feeding time,” Dalso said with a laugh. “Crap!” Spike said as he got up and saw the mako sharks surrounding him, looking hungry. “I’m gonna die,” Spike said. “Vanish, remember?” Varek boredly said. “...Oh yeah!” Spike said before he suddenly shouted, “VANISH!” Spike said before he disappeared before their eyes. “Huh!?” A shark gasped. “Where did he go?” Another said. “Spread out and find him!” Dalso ordered and the sharks did so. Spike hurriedly ran down a chamber and saw he was on a catwalk over a giant pool of water. “Huh?” Spike said before he saw a massive shape moving around in the water. “Nope!” Spike ran on before his invisibility wore off. As Spike made his way into the next room he found himself in a damp series of corridors with soul shards around the area. And all the areas were flooded to waist level. “Oh great,” Spike said before he made his way in and he stepped into the waist-deep cold water and began sloshing his way around, collecting shards gradually. Spike seemed to have a headstart but it wasn’t long until he heard splashing around nearby. “Huh?” Spike said as he turned and saw a shape moving in the water. “Not good,” Spike hurriedly made his way down the path as the shape moved after him. He made his way into another chamber and ran around collecting shards, as he made his way into the next hallway with more shards he heard splashing and turned to see a mako moving towards him, diving in and out of the water like a champion swimmer. “DINNER TIME!” The mako laughed. “I’m not going to be fish food!” Spike yelled as he hurriedly pressed through the water as the creature swam after him. Spike saw some floating boxes up ahead and he jumped onto one and leaped to the next one as the shark jumped out of the water and chomped at his feet. “Yikes!” Spike cried as he jumped back into the water and made his way through the flooded hallways collecting more shards, thankfully he saw unflooded floors in the distance. “Thank goodness!” Spike said as he made his way to the land and he turned to see the shark peeking out of the water. Spike thought he was safe when he suddenly was turned around by another mako grabbing him and roaring in his face before biting him. 3 lives left “So long 'old chum', hahahaha,” Verak taunted. Spike woke up floating in the water and he quickly got up. “Ugh, dangit,” Spike said. “Not very careful are you?” Verak taunted. “Shut up,” Spike said before he went on splashing down the pathway he didn’t take and he made it to semi-dry land soon and was running at normal speed. As he ran he encountered a mako turning a corner. “There he is!” he said. “Vanish!” Spike said as he disappeared as the shark lunged and tried to bite him. “Huh?!” He looked around and saw splashes going away in the puddles. “There he is!” The mako said as another one that was with him aided in pursuit. “Not good not good!” Spike said as he ran up some stairs and into another chamber full of books. He didn’t sightsee as he made his way onto a bridge and ran across it collecting more soul shards. As Spike collected another few in the hallways on the other side of the bridge he glanced back and saw that he lost the sharks. “Whew,” Spike ran around a corner and found more water and he climbed in carefully. As he made his way through the water he kept an eye out for anything moving. And he saw that more were sneaking around. Two makos coming from different hallways began splashing in the water as they came after him. “Why me!?” Spike said as he ran as fast as the water would allow him “Vanish!” Spike said disappearing to lose them but the sharks were still on him. “What? How-” Spike looked down and saw he was moving around the water and it was giving him away. “This power is terrible for here!” Spike complained. “Be thankful I gave it mortal,” Verak said back. Spike went into another solid ground area and ran from the sharks who followed him out of the water and chased him. “We’ll string you up and eat your innards!” A mako growled. “And feed what’s left to the master!” The other said. As they chased him Spike noticed another coming around a corner and baring his teeth. “One chance,” Spike said as he slid on the ground and avoided the sharkmans grab. “Dang it!” The shark spun and tried to go after Spike who got up and ran into the room to his left. As he went in there he saw it was a dead end. “Crap!” Spike turned and saw the sharks blocking the only exit. “Snack time boys,” One mako said. “Not today!” Spike said and in desperation, he ran and jumped through a window. “No!” The three ran to the window. “Hah! I-” Spike taunted before hitting the ground hard. “You really don’t like thinking things through, do you?” Varek asked Spike. “Ugh,” Spike got up and found he was on another bridge and he got up and ran into the next set of hallways as he collected more shards he heard the makos in the distance and used vanish to hide against a wall as they walked past. Afterward, he made his way into a stairwell and collected more shards going down it. As he made his way to the bottom he found himself in the same giant pool room containing the giant fish. Spike was terrified, what if it was waiting to get him? “Hey! He’s down there!” Spike looked up and saw more makos on the catwalk and they jumped off and into the water and they began swimming towards him. “Not good!” Spike said as he ran across the platform over the dark murky water the makos climbing on and chasing him as well. As he made it halfway across he heard an echo go through the room. Spike turned and saw the water parting as something big was rushing towards him! “AAAHHH!” Spike screamed as he ran faster and he jumped just in time avoiding a colossal shark's jaws as they snapped for him, he panted fearfully as he saw the titan of a shark look at him with cold eyes as it slid back into the water, he saw the makos bowing as this happened, is this their ‘revered’ one?. “I gotta leave,” Spike said honestly at the edge of his fear and he ran up another set of stairs. As he ran up the stairs he was kicked by a mako going down the stairs. “Got you!” He said before he closed in and attacked with a claw. 2 lives left “Hook line and sinker,” Verak said. Spike got up and he was in the chamber he started in. “You're running out of tries,” Verak said. “Ok,” Spike said knowing he had to be more careful. He made his way across the catwalk and over to the sacrificial chamber, using vanish to sneak past Dalso who was still there for some reason. As he made his way to the other hall on the other side he found himself in a series of rooms with bookshelves and desks, but most importantly, there were shards. Spike made his way through the library of sorts and began collecting shards. As he ran down several rooms he heard clamoring and turned to see several sharks headed for him. “Vanish!” Spike called and he disappeared as one lunged at him. “Huh?” The shark looked around while he was picking himself off of the ground. Spike hurried along the way, collecting more shards along the back of the library. As he made his way across a bookshelf he heard growls and paused, hiding from the mako on the other side looking for him. When the shark looked away Spike made his way forward, avoiding him. “Whew,” Spike said as he finished collecting shards in this area “Did I find the last one?” Spike asked. “Yes, the contract is in the sacrificial room, but there's a trap there,” Verak said. “Good to know,” Spike said as he snuck back through the library area again and made it back to the hallway that leads back to the sacrificial room. As Spike looked in. Dalso was gone… not a good sign oddly enough… As Spike used vanish to sneak through the area and get over to the altar, and behind it was a safe. “Are they all in safes?” Spike asked. “Yes,” Verak opened the safe for Spike and he leaned down and grabbed the contract before putting it in his pocket. “Ok, now RUN!” Varek said. “Ok ok!” Spike said as he turned to do just that… before the floor fell out from beneath him. “That’s why,” Verak sighed. “AAAAHHH!” Spike fell all the way down the slide and into freezing water. “Agh!” Spike came up out of the water and looked around… where- “RROOOOOAAAAR” A familiar echo sounded and Spike felt his blood freeze. “No…. NOOO!” Spike hurriedly tried to swim away but he knew he’d never outswim the monster. But then he saw his saving grace, a platform in the middle of the water and he swam with all his strength. He could tell it was closing in. He managed to climb onto the platform in the center and scurry away from the edge as the massive shark lunged over the side and tried to eat him. Spike made it to the middle and shivered fearfully as he saw it circling. “Hahahaha! The master feeds tonight!” Dalso laughed from the catwalk with his followers all of them looked frenzied with red eyes. “Please! Let me go!” Spike cried. “No,” Dalso laughed again “How long can you survive?” “Verak! Help me!” Spike pleaded. “Hmm… such a bother,” Verak sighed. “Help me please!” Spike begged as the shark fin breached the water. “What’s in it for me?” Verak asked. “Name it!” Spike cried as the shark leaped at him from the platform's edge, causing it to lean. “Hmm… ok,” Verak said before audibly snapping his fingers and making the platform move, making the shark fall off. “HUH?!” Dalso exclaimed. “Survive until we get to safety,” Verak said. “Thanks!” Spike said as he stood he looked around waiting for it to jump again and it did, leaping right at him. “AH!” Spike hit the floor as the massive shark sailed overhead and splashed down. “Nononoo! Varek you're not allowed to interfere with the masters feeding!” Dalso growled. “AAAH!” Spike grabbed onto a divet in the platform as the shark bit the platform's edge and tilted it towards him. “Fall fall!” The makos demanded. Eventually, the shark let go and swam beneath the platform and rammed it from below to make Spike fall off. “Crap!” Spike fell over but managed to stay on the platform. “We’ve made it,” Verak said as the platform made it to the edge of the walkway next to the pool. “Finally!” Spike jumped on and ran for it as the shark lunged out of the water again and missed. “STOP HIM!” Dalso ordered as Spike made it back up into the entry to the catacombs and ran across the walkway. “Vanish!” Spike disappeared and managed to slip by each of the mako’s who tried to grab him, making it to Dalso. “You're going nowhere!” Dalso said. Spike reared a kick and struck him between the legs. “AAGH!” Dalso fell over and Spike ran past him “STOP HIM!” Dalso screeched. Spike made it back into the sacrificial chamber and made it back into the tunnel and he pressed through the water while a dozen sharks pursued him. He made his way to the fork in the tunnels and saw the portal. “They're gonna get you,” Varek chuckled. “No they aren’t Spike said as he managed to get to the lower water and he ran as the frenzied sharks poured from the other side of the fork after him. “ALMOST THERE!” Spike said as he made it to the portal and a Shark lunged and bit down on his shoulder and at the same time Spike jumped through the portal. YOU ESCAPED! Spike tumbled through the portal with the shark and they tumbled to the ground. “AAAGH!” Spike cried as the shark rolled him over and opened its mouth to eat him. “Halt,” A voice said and the shark froze before looking up and seeing Verak. “That is mine,” He said pointing at Spike. “Y-you…grrrr….” The shark growled and got up before lunging at him “You won’t take our contract! DIE-” Verak reached his hand out quickly, grabbed the shark by the snout, and broke his neck and he dropped dead. “Pest,” Verak sighed before picking up the shark and chucking it to his dogs who eagerly dug into it. “Wow…” Spike realized Verak was clearly stronger than a normal demon. Suddenly he felt his shoulder get healed and he was surprised. “Get up, we have more work to do,” Verak said. “C-can I have a moment,” Spike begged. “Sure, while the clock ticks away towards your children ending up like that,” Verak gestured to the dogs eating the shark. “Ok fine,” Spike got up and stood before him. “Alright, let’s prep you, for the next one stands to be quite entertaining,” Verak said. “Why?” Spike asked. “...Do you have Coulrophobia?” Verak asked. Next time: Amidst a red background a shadowy being with curly hair, spherical body segments, and long bendy almost rubber-like limbs with gloved hands at the end. The music of a carnival is heard playing in the background as well as a strange ticking noise, giggling… and then suddenly, maniacal laughter. Coming soon. Author's Note If you have any questions feel free to ask in the comments. And also tell me what you thought of the level. A killer joke“I’ve never been particularly afraid of clowns, I don't care for them but I'm not really scared,” Spike said. “This one may change your opinion, I have a clown who wanted to start his own circus, but he’s been dodging me as of late, I want you to put a stop to it and get me the contract he’s withholding,” Varek said. “Fine,” Spike sighed. “And as for what you can do for me,” Varek said. “Huh?” Spike said. “Since I so generously saved you from the shark, you can get me the clowns nose, that will show him to try and stiff me,” Varek said. “....Is it attached?” Spike asked. “Yes,” Varek said. “...How-” “You ask alot of questions,” Varek waved him off. “Do I still get invisibility?” Spike asked. “Yes,” Varek sounded annoyed now. “Ok,” Spike moved on and opened the door, seeing a new image on the portal. Instead of a Chipper Ripper or a shark it was of a clown. “Here goes nothing,” Spike entered. -------------------------------------------------------------------- A killer joke -------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike made it to what seemed like a normal carnival, it had an entrance that looked like a clowns mouth, and the park was apparently called- “Topsy Turvey Land?” Spike said as he entered and he heard the gates squeak as they swung open. As he wandered in he looked around, there were rides, food booths, and the works. Spike made his way down the center path amidst the booth and immediately saw shards, so he began collecting them. As he made his way to the other side of the booth path Spike found himself in the presence of a big realistic statue of what looked like the weirdest clown ever. Its long limbs looked like blue rubber, he had gloves on the hands and comically big shoes, his body was segmented like a snowman, spherical body segments decorated in clown fashion leading up to his head which was covered in white make-up orange curly hair on both sides of his head but not on top, big eyes and a red nose above a wide grin. “Ugh,” Spike didn’t like the look of this guy, and so he resumed collecting shards around the statue. “Heeheehee,” Spike paused and turned towards the statue when he heard it giggle. “A-are you alive?” Spike asked. “......BOO!” The clown spun and lunged at Spike. “AAAHHH!” Spike braced himself… but he didn’t die, when he looked he saw the clown had paused inches from his face and then gave a loud squeaky and frankly annoying laugh. “Gah ha ha ha ha ha ha ha!” He finished and he began walking towards Spike with long steps and he towered over him. “HIYA FRIEND! Wanna hear a joke?” He asked. “Whatever you do, don’t laugh,” Varek warned. “Why?” Spike asked. “Just don’t,” Varek said. “O-ok?” Spike said. “Why’d they burn the bone at the stake?............because he was a blas-femur! HAHAHAHAHA!” The clown laughed. “Heheheh, that was kinda-” Spike made the mistake of chuckling and suddenly he felt a tightness in his chest. “I said not to laugh!” Varek said exasperatedly. “Ok ok,” Spike said as he backed away. “WELL?! Ain’t ya goin to laugh some more? Laughter is the best medicine! I need some now as a matter-of-fact!” The clown pulled out a pill bottle labeled ‘laughter’ and he ate it, bottle and all before laughing some more, Spike admittedly chuckled again and the tightness in his chest worsened he grunted holding his chest wondering what the strange pain was. “Why does my chest hurt when I laugh?” Spike asked him. “Oh don’t worry bout it, probably just hunger, where are mah manners? Hello! I’m Topsy, Topsy the clown!” He introduced himself. “H-hi?” Spike said grunting as his chest hurt some more. “Wanna hear another joke?” Topsy asked. “No, I came here to ask for Vareks contract, he said times up,” Spike said. “.....” The clown suddenly quieted and just stared at him with a flat look. “Huh?” Spike said. “Of course, you are… why else would somebody come here…” Topsy looked sad now. “Hey are you-” Suddenly Spike was scooped off the ground and thrown “AAAH!” Spike hit a wall. “Heeheehee… I don’t like that Varek guy, a real downer, who wants to take my circus and expand his real estate… well I won’t letcha! What do you call a three-humped camel?” He asked. “Why would I-” Spike said before the clowns voice warped. “WHY?!” Topsy demanded. “Um… I dunno,” Spike said. “Really pregnant! HAHAHAHA, GET IT?!” The clown stomped up to him. “L-look please just hand it-” Spike pleaded. “LAUGH AT MY JOKE!” Topsy growled. “Fine! Ha ha ha, there are you-” Spike cried out as it felt like a mini heart attack. “Doesn’t the joke just make you wanna laugh…. Till you croak…” Topsy asked. “Wha-what’s happening?” Spike asked. “It’s my curse… You laugh at me, you die,” Topsy said with a wave before Spike’s vision went dark. 3 lives left “That joke was killer wasn’t it?” Varek taunted. Spike reappeared at the gate to Topsy Turvy land gasping for air and he got up. “Realise why you can’t laugh now?” Varek said like he was talking down to him. “Yes,” Spike sighed and he made his way down the path again and saw Topsy back in the same spot as before, but the clown looked at him in surprise. “How are you still here?” Topsy asked. “Varek pulled me out and healed me, now give me the contract,” Spike said. “....Hahaha….. NO!” Topsy stretched on of his arms forward and Spike ducked the grab and ran for it down the path to his right. He resumed collecting shards as the clown pursued him on all fours with his stretchy limbs. “AAAH!” Spike cried as he rounded a corner and the clown followed him. “HAHAHA! What do you call an athlete on coffee!?” Topsy asked. “Shut up!” Spike said. “A person with the RUNS, HAHAHA!” Topsy grabbed a crate and threw it at Spike who avoided it. Spike collected a shard and tried to run around another corner but the clown swatted him with a hand and sent him flying down the path to the opposite side. As Spike landed he looked up at the clown climbing over the top of the tents. “Laugh already!” Topsy demanded. “NOT A CHANCE!” Spike got up and ran before stopping when he saw what looked like an RC car toy. “Huh?” Spike said before it drove at him and it was ticking…. “I don’t like this!” Spike said and he kicked it away, as it landed it exploded “HUH?!” Spike said seeing it detonate. “Heheheheheheheh, if you don’t wanna laugh, then you’ll go out with a bang instead!” Topsy said before he stretched an arm upwards and grabbed a skyline and he climbed onto a tightrope, as he walked across it balancing he was juggling more cars and he threw more explosives that landed and drove at Spike. “AAAH!” Spike ran from the bombs and he fled down another path as the bombs exploded behind him. Spike ran up a stairwell to get away from the cars and he jumped onto a swinging ship ride, but before he could get off it started swinging. “CRAP!” Spike tumbled and held onto a chair as it swung back at forth. As he was wondering what to do next Topsy jumped on and grabbed Spike by the arm… and Spike was electrocuted. “AAAAAAAHHHH!” Spike cried as he was shocked. “What? Don’t like my joybuzzer?” Topsy laughed as he chucked Spike into another tent and several cars drove in after him and blew up. 2 lives left “I’d say stop clowning around, but then this circus would be out of good clowns,” Varek said. “Spike!” Verak said to get Spike's attention as he got up. “What?” Spike asked. “Oh good, I thought you gave up, not as fun for me,” Verak said. “Ugh,” Spike got up and hurried back into the carnival where the monster was likely waiting for him. Spike ran into the deeper part of the carnival and searched around, finding more shards in the deeper part of the park. As Spike made his way in he heard a familiar laugh and he hid behind a cotton candy machine as Topsy walked past. “Hmm….” Topsy walked over to the cotton candy machine and began scooping himself some cotton candy before moving on. “Whew,” Spike said before he ran on and collected more shards. As Spike made his way into the park some more he saw he was in a food court of sorts, as Spike made his way around and collected the shards before making his way to the edge of the circus as he ran around collecting shards on the other side he saw more RC cars rounding a curve and driving towards him. “Yikes!” Spike ran as they drove after him and blew up around him. One explosion sent him flying and he rolled on the ground before getting up and continuing running. As Spike ran he saw Topsy swinging on a trapeze rope overhead. “FOUND YA!” Topsy yelled as he descended onto Spike and Spike dodged down into a hall of mirrors attraction. “Heehee!” Topsy followed him in. Spike ran around feeling his way through the mirror hallways while avoiding the demon clown. As Spike made his way around he turned and saw the clown staring him in the eye. “Boogedyboo!” He said. “AGH!” Spike instinctively threw a punch and broke the mirror, cutting his hand. “Gotcha!” The clown was behind him and he slammed him against the mirror before slamming him against another and chucking him through another. “AGH!” Spike grunted, he looked up and Topsy was gone. Spike went on to get up and for self-defense he grabbed a glass shard and he made his way around. “Vanish,” Spike said and he disappeared. “Huh? Whew did ya go?” Topsy asked appearing from the ceiling. Spike collected all the shards and got out of the mirror house before his vanish wore off. As he made his way to the rest of the carnival he collected the shards he ran across. Spike saw the next batch of shards ahead and he used vanish again just in case more of those exploding cars were there. As Spike made it he saw there were more of the cars, so he snuck around them while they couldn’t see him. "I-I need a break, I'm out of breath," Spike panted as he made his way into an area with more rides. Afterwards he made it to a Ferris wheel and he got in to hide and catch his breath, as it went up. “Whew…” Spike said taking this chance to calm down and catch his breath. “Really poor choice,” Varek said as Spike suddenly stumbled as the ride suddenly staggered and Spike looked out and saw Topsy at the bottom. “Wheel wheel, the Ferris eh?” Topsy joked “I can always fix it later,” Topsy then planted several cars at them bottom. “NONONONONONO-” Spike cried as the cars blew up. “I was hoping to get a break!” Spike cried as he fell with the ride as the ferris wheel fell over and hit the ground. As the dust was kicked up Spike crawled out having miraculously survived. As he did however Topsy climbed across the wheel and grabbed Spike before holding him up. “Guess your time is up,” Topsy said before squeezing a flower on his chest and it sprayed Spike with acid and he screamed in pain before Topsy dropped Spike into the Ferris car before dropping a bomb in after him. “Bombs away!” Topsy laughed before the car blew up. 1 life left “You're making it hard not to root for the clown,” Verak said. Spike got up panting heavily. “Get back to work,” Verak said. “Can I have a moment?” Spike asked honestly shaking from the acid experience. “No,” Verak said and Spike forced himself to move on as he heard more RC car toys in the distance. Spike ran down another path avoiding them and this time he ran to a merry-go-round and he ran on it collecting shards before making his way to the other food court, and he found more there. When he collected the last little bit there he heard the intercom go off. “Attention all parkgoers, the park is closing in ten minutes,” Topsy’s voice said. “No...” Spike said. “Anyone still here… heehee, will become locked in and won’t ever leave again…. HAHAHAHAHA!” Topsy laughed. “I gotta hurry!” Spike ran deeper into the park and he collected more shards. As he did… “HIYA!” Topsy said as he appeared in front of Spike. “No!” Spike cut through an alleyway as a stretchy arm raced after him. “Imma getcha!” Topsy laughed. “Not a chance!” Spike said as he appeared on the other side and he ran over to the bumper carts area Spike ran around and collected the shards but as he tried to leave Topsy climbed in after him and sent more RC cars at Spike by producing them from his mouth. Spike panicked and jumped over the railing of the bumper carts area and he made his way towards the center of the carnival. “Almost there!” Spike said as he collected the last few shards. “Finally, the contract is in the platform Topsy was on when you first met him.” Varek said. “It is?” Spike asked. “Yes,” Varek said as Spike ran towards the platform and Spike wondered how he was going to get it when he noticed the cars were still chasing him and he got an idea. “Come on!” Spike said as he ran up to the platform and he stood there as the car toys drove towards him. “Risky,” Varek said. “Gotta time it right,” Spike said and when Topsy came around he saw this and his eyes widened. “NOOOO!” Topsy cried as the cars exploded and at the same time Spike dodged back and the explosions broke open the platform. Revealing the safe that Varek opened. Spike grabbed the contract but Topsy grabbed him. “WHY YOU LITTLE-” Topsy said but Spike though quickly and pulled out the glass shard and slashed Topsy’s nose off. “AAAAAAAAAGH!” Topsy cried as he fell down. Spike grabbed the nose and got up but Topsy grabbed him by the leg and swung him around hitting him against walls. “THAT WAS A MISTAKE YOU LITTLE WRETCH!” a frenzied Topsy said. “NGH!” Spike stabbed Topsy in the hand and Topsy let him go and Spike gunned it for the exit while the psycho clown pursued him. “I’M GONNA KILL YOU!” Topsy screeched as he chased after him reaching a stretchy arm out to snag him. “AAAHH!” Spike ran towards the gate and saw it starting to close. “Better run faster,” Varek said. “Ngh!” Spike pushed himself and he jumped as the gate was closing. And the gap was just wide enough to get through while it closed on Topsy's arm. Spike tumbled on the ground and Topsy was closed behind the gates. “NOOOOOOOO!” Topsy cried as Spike fled into the portal. YOU ESCAPED! Spike tumbled onto the ground and panted heavily before getting up. “How was the carnival?” Varek asked sarcastically. “Ugh…” Spike sighed as he slapped the contract down on the desk. “Hmm, and the nose?” Varek asked. Spike put that on the table as well. “Good good,” Varek tossed the nose to his dogs, “You're doing better than I expected,” Varek said. “Thanks…” Spike said. “Hey less for me to do, now you have ten more, and still a day and a half,” Varek said with a grin. “What?” Spike asked wondering why he was smiling. “Oh nothing, next I want you to play with someone,” Varek said. “Oook?” Spike asked not knowing what he meant. “Did you ever play with dolls?” Varek asked. Next time: Amidst a red background a shadowy being with long curly hair a dress and a bow. She seemed to have strings coming out of her fingers and she was giggling as she continued to play around. And suddenly…. She turned towards you and asks… “Wanna play with me?...” Coming soon. Author's Note Bit of a shorter one, whew these are getting harder and harder. Any questions feel free to ask Play with me... forever...“Dolls?” Spike asked. “Yeah, this next one is about a girl who is so obsessed with dolls that she became one, and now anyone who enters her domain becomes her dollies,” Varek said. “....Can we skip this one?” Spike asked not wanting to deal with that. “No,” Varek said. “Alright,” Spike sighed as he turned to the door but Varek spoke. “Don’t you want your second power?” Varek asked. “Second?” Spike turned back to him. Vareks's hand glowed again, and Spike felt power enter him. “You now also have the power to teleport, use this wisely,” Varek said. “Ok,” Spike said not wanting to ask him why anymore and he entered the portal. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Play with me… forever… ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike exited the portal and found himself in what seemed to be a void. “Huh?” Spike said looking around before spotting a big pink dollhouse, big enough for him to enter. There were fake bushes and toys everywhere around the void like a messy room. “What fresh hell is this?” Spike asked. “Ha,” Varek chuckled, Spike ignored him as he approached the house and knocked on it. The door slid open slowly and Spike hesitantly entered, keeping his guard up. As he entered expecting a cramped space he suddenly found himself in a much bigger mansion-like space. “Whoa,” Spike said as he walked through and saw all sorts of strange things, like dolls everywhere, small and big, some even as big as he was. As Spike walked through the house lobby he suddenly heard child-like giggling and he turned, not seeing anything off. “Huh?” Spike said as he looked around, and suddenly he began hearing child laughter everywhere, behind him sometimes and when he turned it would briefly stop. “Is someone there?” Spike said ready for anything, he wasn't as ready as he thought he was when a little girl's voice came to him suddenly. “Hiya mister! Are you here to play with me?” Spike turned but only saw a stitched doll the size of a human child sitting on the ground. “Where are you?” Spike looked around again. “In front of you silly billy!” She giggled and he turned again to be face to face with the dolls button eyes and stitched smile. “AAAAH!” Spike yelped jumping back, honestly tired of it at this point. “Heeheeheehee! I got you!” She giggled and hopped back so Spike could see her full appearance. She had beige skin made of fabric and a dress that was purple, orange string hair, and a blue bow in her fake hair. She also had blue button eyes and a stitched smile. “Um… hello?” Spike said. "Hi! It's been a long time since I've had a new playmate! I was hoping they'd send a girl, but I can play with boys too!" She giggled. "Um, actually I'm not here for-" Spike attempted before she cut him off. “Oh oh let’s play house first!” She giggled as she ran over to a corner opened a toy box and dug through it. “Um, actually I am here for-” Spike attempted again but it was like she wasn't listening. “Here! You be the daddy and I’ll be a mommy!” She said bringing a smaller dollhouse over. “I’m not here to play I’m-” “You don’t wanna play house? Ok! Let’s plaaaaaaaay…. Tag!” She squealed and she tagged him before running. “Hey! I need to talk to you!” Spike said chasing her trying to get her to listen. “Yay! Play play!” She said as she ran with seemingly limitless energy. Spike slowed eventually and she danced where she stopped. “Nyah! Your slow!” She giggled. “Look! I’m low on time, I need-” “Let’s play something else!” How about dolls! I love dollies! I have a huuuuuge collection, and-” “SHUT UP!” Spike said at his wits end with her cutting him off and she quieted. “Sorry… I’m sorry, but I’m stressed as is with my family in danger, I’m here to collect Vareks contract,” Spike said hoping she'd listen this time. “.....Oh…. well of course you're here for that…” She said with a frown. “Yeah, so if you could just hand it over I-” But Spike was cut off as the doll girl walked up to him somehow with a bitter expression. “Of course, you're not here to play with me! They NEVER are!” She growled. “Hey, sorry, but I-” Spike attempted but she stomped with surprising force. “No! NONONO! I wanna play! And like it or not, we’ll be friends forever! Play forever! AND YOU WILL BE MY DOLLIE!” She said as she suddenly began rising into the air, Spike backed away seeing she was doing so with strings coming out of her feet, lifting her into the air like tendrils. “It’ll take some work… but I can make a dollie out of you just like the others, your good friend Darla the Dollmaker is here to help…” She said as the buttons turned red. “Uh oh!” Spike ran as she extended her hands and hooks came out of her fingertips and they shot out on strings to snare Spike who managed to avoid them up until he was halfway up the stairs before several hooked strings snared him and dug into his flesh. “Ow!” Spike grunted as she pulled him back towards her. “Needle in the eyes, listen not to ask why’s, I’ll leave him in stitches, playtime is my riches!” She sang as she dragged him back to her. “No! What do I do?!” Spike said. “Try the teleport, just think about teleportation,” Varek said. “O-ok!” Spike thought about the teleport power and suddenly he teleported out of the hooks and at the top of the stairs where he stumbled but looked surprised. “HUH?! Hey! That’s cheating!” Darla growled and she lashed her strings out again. But Spike ran away through a door and escaped. “No no no!” This isn’t how it's supposed to go!” She yelled from the other side of the door. “Screw that!” Spike said as he ran into another part of the house and saw shards. “Get collecting, unless you fancy being her doll for the rest of time,” Varek said. “No way!” Spike said as he ran into the next hallways and collected shards, he noticed these were scattered instead of grouped up “Are there less here?” Spike asked. “Yep, she likes to preserve her dollies,” Varek said. “Ugh,” Spike said uncomfortably, as he ran past some of her other dolls, some of which were bleeding, now understanding he ran on hoping to avoid their fate. Spike collected a few more shards and ran into a dining room before Darla came into the room and saw him. “There you are!” She said as she whipped her hooked tendrils at him and Spike ducked them and fled into a room with a TV in it with a giant sticker on the screen. “This place is all fake!” Spike said as he had to step over some more corpse dolls. “Shut up! Fake isn’t a word here!” Darla shouted as she chased him using her tendrils like tentacles to carry her. Spike jumped over a railing and landed on the ground before fleeing deeper into the mansion. “WHERE ARE YOU?!” Darla shouted as she lost track of him. Spike ignored her and collected more shards and ran into a room that looks like it was designed for tea parties. With her dollies lined up in their chairs. “Eugh!” Spike said not liking the sight before he fled into another hallway, where he ran into Darla who took the chance to wrap him in her strings. “You're mine now Dollie!” Darla laughed before she opened her mouth revealing sharp teeth behind the strings and she swung her hook claws at him. 3 Lives left: “Darla wants to play…. And she’ll never let you go…” Varek taunted. Spike wasted no time and made his way out of the lobby as soon as he woke up. He saw the entrance to the other side of the mansion and he took it. As he made his way through several hallways he heard an exclamation behind him and he continued running as he heard her behind him. “GET BACK HERE NEW FRIEND!” Darla screeched as she swung her hooks at Spike’s back but Spike stayed ahead of her. Just as Spike thought he was going to get away he suddenly felt a hand grip his head and his eyes widened as he glanced back to see she had detached her arm, connected by strings, and she was grabbing his head. “HAHAHAHA! Tag! You're it!” She said as she dug her claws in. “AGH!” Spike grunted and he decided to jump through a window to get away from her and he ended up pulling her with him. “Whoa!” She exclaimed and they landed in a pool. Spike swam to the surface and pulled out the hooks with cries of pain as he made his way out of the pool with Darla swam after him. “You're being mean!” She yelled in a whining tone. Spike ran as soon as he was on dry land and he booked it down a corridor leading into a dining room. With corpse dolls in each seat. “Get out! I haven’t set the tea yet!” Darla demanded as she chased him on her strings. “You're insane!” Spike said as he avoided her hooks by teleporting out of the way and she accidentally smashed a table against the wall. “NO! Look what you made me do!” She growled as she chased him into the kitchen and he ran around collecting shards as she tried to grab him. Spike ran into the next room but his wet shoes made him slip and he fell over a railing. “I GOTCHA!” Darla said as she lashed a string around Spike's neck. “NO-” SNAP 2 lives left: “Guess she plays a little too rough for you,” Spike sighed as he sat up in the lobby and he stood up, he just had his neck snapped... how much more will he have to endure before this is over... “I’m really tempted to give up…” Spike said feeling the weight of this whole situation on his shoulders… he’s literally going through hell! Spike fell to his knees. “Maybe it’d be better if I just-” “No… Don’t give up!” A woman's voice called to him. “Huh?” Varek? Was that you?” Spike asked. “What was me? Stop wasting my time and get moving,” Varek said impatiently. “O-ok…” Spike sighed, must have been his nerves… Spike made his way to the right this time and he peeked around a corner, looking for Darla. He saw the creepy doll girl skipping by. “Lalalala! Happiness to me happiness to you, when I catch you your existence is through!” She sang. “She still scares me….” Spike muttered before he ran on once she vanished. As Spike made his way down the west hallway and collected the spaced-out shards he ran by a room with dollhouses in it. Spike moved on and found another set of shards in another hallway, but heard a screech and turned to see Darla swinging across the gap between them using her hooks. “Wheee!” She exclaimed. “Crap!” Spike ran on as she landed behind him and she opened her stitched mouth and sent strings to snare Spike's legs. “Ah!” Spike fell down. “Heeheehee! Now you are mine!” She said as she brandished her hook-like claws. “No. I’m. NOT!” Spike grabbed the strings and yanked hard sending her stumbling to the floor. “You meanie!” She lunged at him and landed on him and began stabbing him with her claws. “GET OFF!” Spike yelled as he wrestled with her, she was stronger than she looked! As she raised a hand Spike caught it. “I’m gonna get you, I’m gonna get you!” She sang. Spike’s family flashed to mind and he yelled before reaching up and grabbing one of her button eyes and tore it out. “GYAAAAH!” She screamed falling back. Spike got up and backed away as she stood back. “You….. GIVE IT BACK!” She looked at him and he was shocked to see an actual eyeball underneath where her button eye was. “What are you?...” Spike asked. “A dollie… THE BEST DOLLIE EVER!” Darla said as he limbs detached and extended on strings before bigger hooks came out of her fingers. “Huh?” Spike backed away. “Hope you're happy… I’m so mad I’m just unraveling at the seams now!” Darla laughed maniacally and she chased him on all fours. “AAAAH!” Spike teleported out of her strings still holding him, turned, and fled from her. Spike ran into another room and collected shards as she came after him like a mass of strings and hooks. “I’M GONNA MAKE YOU MINCE MEAT!” She bellowed. Spike ran into another room with dolls dangling from strings from the ceiling and he made it into the lobby again through a side entrance. As he looked around Varek spoke. “The safe is located, check that room full of dollhouses you ran past earlier,” Varek mentioned. “Ok!” Spike said and he hurried back into the hallways as Darla pursued him. “DOOOLLLYYYY!” She screamed at him as she pursued. Spike made it down the hallway, his good sense of direction leading him to the room with the dollhouses and he shut the door behind him. “OPEN THE DOOR!” Darla shouted as she bashed on the door. “Which one?!” Spike asked. “Just start smashing!” Varek said. “Ok!” Spike began breaking dollhouses. “W-what are you doing in there? STOP!” Darla cried. Spike eventually found the safe in a pink one and he pulled it out, Varek broke it open and he claimed the contract. At the same time, the door came down and Darla saw the destruction. “No…YOU FILTHY HUMAN! I’LL TEAR YOUR LIMBS OFF!” Darla screamed as she lunged and Spike dodged it by teleporting and fled for the exit as she chased him with a feral scream. “NOT GOOD NOT GOOD!” Spike said as he ran from her as she swung her hooked claws at him. Spike rounded the corner and entered the lobby and bolted for the exit. As he broke through the door and bolted through the void for the portal Darla pursued him through the void as well. “FRIENDS DON’T DESTROY OTHER FRIENDS STUFF! I’LL KILL YOU!” She bellowed. “Almost there!” Spike cried and he saw the portal and he jumped for it as Darla reached for him. And her hooks narrowly missed him as he went into the portal. “NOOOO!” Darla exclaimed. YOU ESCAPED! Spike tumbled into the office panting heavily. “Could you stop landing on my floor like that? You're starting to make dents,” Varek sighed. “Varek… I don’t know how much more I can handle… please, can’t I just do half?” Spike asked. “I’m afraid not, I have a quota and image to uphold,” Varek said. “LISTEN-” Spike was about to yell but a voice came to him again. “Calm yourself… I know you can do it,” The woman's voice said. “I’m listening,” Varek asked smugly. “...Nevermind…” Spike said with a sigh and he handed Varek the contract. “Good choice,” Varek said before taking out another cigar and lighting it “Now listen, next up we have a trip to a more… relaxing environment,” Varek said. “Relaxing?... In hell?” Spike asked. “Maybe not the way you know it… how are you with gardening?” Varek asked. Next time: Amidst a red background a short shadowy being with a pointy hat and a pickax was standing there, completely still as the sounds of a forest echoed in the background, and then as it looked like nothing was going to happen… he looked at you. “Heheheheheheheee!” a mischievous voice giggled. Author's Note Can you guess the next monster? Sorry about the late update, some stressful stuff was happening. A grievous garden“I have a rather mischievous group that’s been ducking me for quite a while, deal with them,” Varek said. “What are they?” Spike asked knowing at this point to expect anything. “You’ll know them when you see them, I should remove one of your powers and give you another second power,” Varek said. “Wait, remove a power?” Spike asked. “Yeah, do you think a mere human is capable of holding more than two bits of a supernatural power like this in their body? No,” Varek said. “Great…” Spike sighed “I’ll trade teleportation then,” “Ok,” Varek swapped his powers with a glowing hand and Spike felt the new power entering him. “Your new power is to sense demonic auras,” Varek said. “Sense them?” Spike asked. “Yes, detect the hidden monsters, it may prove invaluable here,” Varek clarified. “Ok,” Spike nodded and he turned to leave. “Good luck, you’ll need it,” Varek laughed as Spike ignored him and went into the portal. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A grievous garden ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike exited the portal and found himself in a long tunnel and he looked ahead and saw what looked like a forest ahead. “Oook, what could be waiting for me in there?” Spike asked as he walked hesitantly down the long tunnel, as he made his way out he saw something on both sides of the tunnel. “Wait a minute… are those garden gnomes?” Spike asked as he saw the jolly four-foot tall pointy hat-wearing dwarfs staring out into the distance blankly but with happy expressions. They were holding signs too, Spike decided to read them. “Enter these forests if ye dare, not everything is as it seems… odd,” Spike said after reading it. “Don’t tell me I’m honestly dealing with demon gnomes am I?” Spike chuckled wondering how this place could be so serene despite it literally being a part of hell. “You’ll find they're deadlier than they look,” Verak said as Spike walked on. “What are they gonna do? Kick me in the shin?” Spike asked as he entered the forests and made his way through without any major problems. As he exited the forests he saw what looked like a garden entrance. “Hard to believe this place is a part of hell,” Spike said. “Just keep moving,” Varek said with a sigh and probably an eyeroll. “Ok,” Spike made his way into the garden… ignoring any of the signs warning him not to enter. As Spike made his way into the garden he heard a growl and he turned to see a shape dart behind a tree. “Huh?” Spike said as he saw this, hesitantly he approached and peeked around the tree… and saw a fake gnome. “Heh, alright,” Spike could see where this was going and so he made his way into the garden area, seeing flowers and statues. “If I do end up in hell this particular place seems relaxing enough,” Spike said. “You idiot… you should know…” Varek sighed. “Know wha-” Spike suddenly grunted in pain as he felt something cut his leg and he saw a shape dart into the tall grass. Looking at his leg he saw a minor wound on his leg that looked like it came from a knife. “What the-” Spike grunted again as something struck him in the back and he turned to see it was a rock. “Heeheeheehee,” The small voices cackled. “Starting to regret my words,” Spike said as he felt many eyes on him, he hurried on to an area that had shards, but also many gnomes planted around the place. “A-alright, no problem,” Spike began stepping around them carefully, collecting shards and watching for any of them moving around… but it was odd, none of them looked like living gnomes… wouldn’t they- “AAAGH!” Spike yelled and he turned to see what looked like a pick ax lodged in his leg “W-what the-” Spike looked up and saw a gnome looking at him with a sickening grin full of ugly sharp teeth. It immediately sprung off the ground and tackled him down and raised its pick to kill Spike but Spike caught it and threw the small man off. “What the heck!?” Spike got up and saw the gomes around him were still inanimate but the one he tossed ran off. “Still think this is a walk in the park?” Varek said smugly. “Ok fine!” Spike began hobbling away, looking for a place to dress his wound when he heard more cackling and he looked to see more gnomes looking his way than before. “Wha- ACK!” Spike cried out and looked down and saw a thrown pick had landed in his chest, he fell to his knees as the pain was too much. Then he heard rustling behind him and saw several gnomes rushing out of the tall grass pickaxes and skinning knives raised. “No…” Spike croaked as they tackled him down as a group and began stabbing him. 3 Lives left: “You should have paid more attention, fool,” Spike got up at the garden entrance looking shocked and feeling his chest, seeing no stab wounds. “You're welcome,” Varek said. “...Thanks…” Spike said as he got up and made his way to the garden again. He began to look like he was losing it a little… so much dying… the pain… how much more can he handle? “I’d start using that aura sense,” Varek suggested. “Right, you did say I had that,” Spike said wishing he remembered that sooner, doing what he did with the teleportation he focused on the sense and he saw multiple gnomes light up with a red aura. Others didn’t. “So they were hiding among fakes,” Spike said. “Yep, keeps you guessing,” Varek said. Spike made his way around and this time he made sure to use his sense power more. As he made his way through the garden area, collecting shards he stepped around several gnomes that were not so subtly watching him. “I didn’t even get a chance to ask if I could have their contract,” Spike said as he avoided getting too close to another one. “Would they have been likely to listen?” Varek asked. “Doubt it,” Spike said as he made his way onto a rocky path and he made his way down it collecting shards and making sure to walk around every gnome he saw on the road while keeping an eye on them.. “Heehee!” a voice laughed and Spike turned to see a couple of gnomes abandoned post and ran for him. “Crap!” Spike ran for it as the two chased him down the rocky path. Spike ran over another arching path and made his way onto a rocky bridge where he tripped. Spike got up but turned and saw the gnomes gaining on him with their pickaxes raised. “Tch!” Spike saw a chance and dodged a swing from one and he kicked him back. The other jumped at Spike but he ducked it grabbed the other gnomes pickaxe and swung it into the head of the other gnome. And his head shattered. “Huh? Their not even flesh!” Spike said before turning and smashing the other gnome. Spike stood back as he saw the pieces of the gnomes on the ground. “Alright, two less to worry about,” Spike said. “Not quite…” Varek said. “What?” Spike said… before they gnomes rebuilt themselves “WHAT THE?” Spike exclaimed. “Their demons, in hell, mortals cannot kill demons in hell, remember?” Varek said. “Crap your right,” Spike dropped the pickaxe and fled as the gnomes angrily ran after him gibbering and growling. Spike fled into a forested area where there were more gnomes and he continued running until he found a tree to hide behind. He hid until he saw the gnomes run past. “Whew…” Spike used his aura sense to see if there anymore live gnomes near him. And there weren’t where he could see. So he got ready to move- Drip drip… Spike froze when he felt saliva drip on him and he looked up, seeing at least five gnomes in the trees. “Of course, they can climb…” Spike said before running for it. Spike ran as fast as he could from his smaller foes but the chase through the forest led him towards the two that passed by earlier who turned and saw him. “OH-” Spike didn’t get a chance to curse as another gnome leaped out of the bushes and tackled him knocking him down. They then ganged up on him and swung their pick axes into his body as a group. 2 lives left: “Oh come on, it can’t be that hard to outrun someone two and a half feet shorter than you!” Varek said. Spike got up and sighed as he saw he was fine… physically at least… “Spike, you may want to get moving, I think they’ve figured out where I deposited you,” Varek said. “O-ok,” Spike said as he ran on, and he made his way around the multiple gnomes stashed all over the place and collecting more shards. “I take it back, this place really is hell,” Spike said as he ran. Suddenly three gnomes broke off from where they were standing and they chased him. Spike fled into an area with a gazebo and he ran onto it and past it, as the three gnomes chased him into the next area, grabbing shards as he ran. Spike fled into some treelines and hid again, this time using his sense to see if any gnomes were waiting to ambush him. There weren’t. Spike saw the gnomes had lost track of him and they left. Spike made his way through the treeline, hiding occasionally, and keeping track of his environment and he saw more shards in a tall grass area. He ran over and started collecting them. When he felt another scrape against his leg and he cried out before looking to see his bleeding leg and he looked around and saw the tall grass rustling in several areas, and movements closing in on him. “Not good!” Spike said as he frantically ran for it from the shapes moving in the tall grass and he made it to the grassline before bolting away. “Those shards were the last ones, I know where the safe is but your not going to like it,” Varek said. “I don’t like anywhere here! Where?” Spike asked. “Head back into the treeline you were in and head down it,” Varek said and Spike did so, upon making it to the area Spike ran into the treeline and past it, as he ran through the tree area he eventually came to a giant statue. A huge statue of a giant gnome, surrounded by tall grass. “Great, more tall grass, can this get any worse-” Spike said before the statue's eyes glowed and it looked down at him “....Those words are cursed…” Spike said as he took a step back as the giant statue raised his giant pickaxe and swung it down. Spike yelled as he jumped out of the way and the pick rammed deep into the ground. “The safe is at the base of the statue,” Verak confirmed. Spike got up and hurriedly ran into the grass as the statue tried to grab him with its other hand and missed. Spike ran on but heard movement around him and he saw several more gnomes darting in the grass and Spike knew he was being surrounded. Spike ran up to the statue who raised a foot to step on him and Spike jumped out of the way as the massive foot smashed down and Spike ran up to the safe which Varek broke open and Spike claimed the contract. BBBRRRROOOOOMMMM came a loud rumble from the statue as its eyes turned red and it swung its hand and struck Spike sending the man flying over the grass and into a wall. “OW!” Spike grunted as he hit the ground, looking up he saw the gnomes exiting the grass with glowing red eyes, purplish hats and skin, and they were foaming at the mouth. “I’m guessing I made them mad…” Spike said. “Yeah,” Varek said as they swarmed after Spike who struggled to get up as they were closing in. But he managed to stand and run away. Meanwhile the statue broke away from its pedestal and began chasing him as well. “COME ON!” Spike said as he ran back out into the garden, he saw what looked like an army of gnomes leaving their posts and running at him. “Tch!” Spike ran to the left and went around the group as they chased him as a horde. Meanwhile the statue swung its giant pickaxe down and missed Spike a few times. Spike ran back up the entry pathway and saw the gnome from behind the tree run out and throw its pickaxe which landed in Spike’s shoulder. “AAAAGH!” Spike grunted but he pressed on and ran back through the forest, the giant gnome chasing after him and tearing through the trees while a horde of smaller gnomes swarmed past the gate. Spike limped on and made it to the tunnel, but when he thought he was home free the gnomes stationed at the tunnel entrance suddenly rushed at him. Spike managed to dodge one but the other latched onto his back and wrapped its smaller arms around his neck and began squeezing. “ACK! Agh!” Spike choked but he still pressed on even as the statue gnome plunged its pickaxe through the ceiling of the tunnel multiple times. As Spike was starting to lose consciousness he was almost at the portal and a wall broke down as the statue broke open a hole in the ceiling and reached through to grab him. Spike's sheer willpower helped him avoid it and at the moment he lost consciousness he fell forward into the portal. YOU ESCAPED! Spike woke up in the office area and sat up. “Oh no! How long have I been out?!” Spike asked. “A few hours,” Varek said. “WHY DIDN’T YOU WAKE ME!?” Spike demanded. “Do not take that tone with me, or else, I’m not your babysitter,” Varek warned. “What about-” Spike heard gnawing noises and he turned to see the gnome he brought with him being gnawed on by Varek’s dogs. “Well, you should get moving, time has passed,” Verak said. “...Ok,” Spike growled a little, knowing that he had no choice and he approached Varek’s desk. “Alright, next you're going to the zoo,” Varek said. “What’s there?” Spike asked. “Heheh, you're in for a treat this time,” Varek said. Next time: Amidst a red background a tall and large shadowy figure was standing there, his form was hard to discern but he seemed to have tusks and flipper-like arms and legs and he was holding what looked like a large chainsaw. And he was mumbling a song something over and over. “Tralalala, make more animals make more friends…Heheheh…” Author's Note Warning, the next chapter is pretty dark. Slothful business“Let us move on, I have a particularly lazy individual who won’t get me the contract, find him and make him pay, with this new power,” Varek said waving his glowing hand. “What is it?” Spike said. “A barrier in exchange for your sense ability, now move it, I have little patience right now,” Varek said sounding frustrated. “Fine…” Spike said as he made his way to the portal. “And don’t come back without the contract,” Varek said. “I know…” Spike said as he entered through the portal. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Slothful business ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike made his way through the portal and saw he was standing in front of an electronic gate in a large building. “Hell has tech-” “Oceans remember?” Varek said. “Oh yeah,” Spike sighed and he continued on, going up to the door and he didn’t notice a laser trap that when he walked through it an alarm went off. “Huh?” Spike said before a camera came out of the wall and looked at him. “Can I help you?...” A slow and tedious voice asked. “Um, yes, can you please get me your boss on the phone,” Spike asked. “.....Nooo…” The voice droned. “What? Why?” Spike asked. “I’m too tired to reach for the intercom button, and frankly he’s never willing to come out of his penthouse, so-” “I’m here on behalf of Varek!” Spike called and the voice paused. “On second thought… I’ll get him,” The voice said and the camera left, two minutes later another one on the opposite side of the gate came out. “Yeah? Whaddya want? I hope this was important enough to interrupt my game for-” A nasally voice sneered over the camera before Spike spoke. “Varek,” Spike said simply and he heard a spit take on the other side. “V-Varek? Where?” The voice demanded. “He’s not here, he sent me, look I just want the contract and-” “Aw come on, he said I had a few weeks left! How long ago was that?” Spike heard the voice ask someone else, then a voice responded and he did another spittake. “A few weeks ago?! Why didn’t anyone tell me!?” He demanded. “Sorry Louie, you didn’t want to be disturbed,” The voice said a little more clearly this time. “You useless-” Spike’s eye twitched as he listened to this banter before he called out. “HEY! My family is in danger I need to get moving! So please just hand it over,” Spike said. “Hmmph… sure, fine whatever… come up and get it, I’m not making the trip down there,” The voice known as Louie said and the gate opened. “Thank goodness, someone, willing to-” Spike said as he walked in before a bullet ricocheted off the ground in front of his foot and he jumped. “Dang it! The sights off!” He heard Louie exclaim. “Aaah!” Spike cried diving behind cover as more shots hit the ground he was standing in before. “When will you learn boy?... Demons don’t play fairly,” Varek said. “Good to know!” Spike said as he noticed something bouncing near him and he saw a grenade. “Tch!” Spike ran away as the bomb blew up, looking up he saw the attackers were turrets on the front door with cameras attached. Spike ran around a corner and saw more turrets looking at him, he hid again as a few more shots nearly got him. “Where’s the shards!?” Spike asked. “There are none,” Varek said. “What?” Spike asked for clarification. “You're in the circle of sloth, Do you think the denizens here are active enough to actually collect soul shards? They mostly just put others to work so they don’t have to,” Varek explained. “...Makes sense,” Spike said before he peeked around the corner and a few more shots missed him. “DARN IT! Why didn’t the sights on these turrets get fixed?!” Louie demanded. “...I’m too tired too…” Another voice said. “Ugh, you're so lucky slapping you requires movement,” Louie growled. “This place almost sounds like it’ll be easier, I mean the monsters are too lazy to come after me,” Spike said. “They have their ways,” Varek said with a chuckle. “How-” Spike heard doors opening. “Suddenly the door the turrets were guarding opened and a floating chair came out. “Huh?” Spike said seeing what looked like a sloth on a chair. “Ugh, I hate work…” The sloth said. “Stop whining and take care of him!” Louie demanded, over the camera intercom. “Ok ok…” The sloth drove the flying chair towards Spike who poked his head out. “This guy doesn’t seem so threatening,” Spike said. “Trust me, I am…” The sloth said before slowly pressing a button and suddenly the arms of the chair opened and guns came out. “Oh no…” Spike got up and ran back around the corner as the sloth opened fire on him. “Please just die so I can go back to reading…” The sloth drove after him. “Aaah!” Spike ran as the sloth rounded the corner and fired at him, Spike took cover around a corner below the cameras guarding the front door. “Just cornered yourself… whatever…” He mumbled as he pressed the joystick forward and drove towards Spike’s position. “What do I do!?” Spike exclaimed as he rounded the corner. “Alright… let’s get this over with…” The sloth pressed another button and the chair aimed a bomb launcher at Spike. “Oh no, what do I do?!” Spike asked. “Ugh, do I need to keep bailing you out boy?... use your barrier!” Varek sighed exasperatedly. “Ok!” Spike used his barrier power just in time as the sloth fired on him and an explosion occurred. “Dealt with…” He said before widening his eyes in shock seeing Spike was still there with a barrier around him, not only that he accidentally blew a hole in the door. “Go on,” Varek said. “Alright!” Spike turned and ran inside. “....Ooops…” The sloth said. Spike ran down a hallway and found himself in what appeared to be a factory, making strange things, like the chair that the sloth was using. And the workers were sloths as well. “I didn’t think the sin sloth meant it literally…” Spike said. “HEY!” Spike turned to see a camera looking at him “How did you get in?! Workers!” Louie ordered and they turned towards the camera “The one who kills him gets to take a break! DO IT!” Louie said and the workers looked at eachother and nodded before climbing in their chairs and driving towards him. “Why is it never easy!?” Spike said as he ran towards a staircase as they all fired on him. Spike took cover at the top of the stairs as bullets riddled the walls. “YOU IDIOTS! HE’S UP THERE!” Louie exclaimed. “Sorry…” They said as they drove their floating chairs up the stairs after Spike. As they made their way up to Spike, Spike took the opportunity in the cease-fire to run across the catwalks. “Where is the safe?” Spike asked. “In the top floor of this place, where Louie is,” Varek responded. “Ok- AAAH!” Spike fell as one sloth shot a rocket and it blew up the catwalk sending Spike falling. 2 lives “Wow, you died to a literal sloth, how embarrassing,” Varek chuckled. Spike came to on the ground where he landed and he got up but when he looked he saw the sloths rounding a corner and taking aim. “Crap!” Spike rolled behind the cover as they opened fire on him. “Better move,” Varek said. “I will!” Spike said as he looked for a way out of this, and saw a path deeper into the production area and he got up and ran when there was a ceasefire. Spike ran for it and made it to a conveyor line, Spike vaulted over it avoiding the path of another rocket and he ran on. “Is there an elevator? Or stairs?” Spike asked. “I’m not holding your hand every time mortal, figure it out,” Varek said as Spike ran on. “Thanks a lot…” Spike said as he paused behind a machine looking around for any threats. When Spike looked at the other side of the factory he saw an elevator. “Alright,” Spike said as he got down low and snuck his way over there. Spike continued sneaking and he hid under a conveyor line when a sloth drove by, using vanish to keep hidden. “Uuugh, work…” The Sloth sighed. “Almost there,” Spike said as he saw a chance and he crawled over to the elevator and opened it. Unfortunately, this drew the attention of the other Sloths and they began driving over. “Get him…” The sloth up from said but in a non-intimidating way. “C’mon c’mon!” Spike frantically pressed the button over and over again until it closed. Spike gave a sigh of relief as the elevator went up and he waited as the elevator arrived on the second floor. As Spike poked his head out and he stepped out and he made his way out towards a hallway that led to a fancy door. Spike carefully made his way to the door and he cautiously opened it. As he opened it bad smells came from within and he winced but he looked in and saw something unsettling. A large fat caterpillar-like monster with folds of skin and he was laying on a sofa… which was also floating… “This is the weirdest hell yet,” Spike said. “Agreed, the safes over by Lazy Louie,” Varek said. “Ok,” Spike snuck over and peeked over the massive caterpillar creature and saw the safe under his armpit. “HEY!” Louie said in his nasally wheezy voice. “Uh… yeah?” Spike asked. “If you're here to… give me my chips, just leave them on the table next to me,” Louie said. Spike knew there was no way to get the safe from around him so he decided to snatch it, he ran out in front of Louie who, despite being a lazy guy, reacted quickly and covered the safe with his fat arm. “HEY! Waitaminute, you're that guy that wants to rob me blind and get me kicked out by that jerk Varek!” Louie wheezed as he spoke. “...Yes, please, I need that contract, my family-” “Don’t care, you take my contract, I’ll need to get a job again! I’m not working at that horrid fast-food restaurant again, those cannibal psychos wanted to eat me every shift!” Louie said. “Varek will feed my children and wife to hellhounds!” Spike exclaimed hoping he was sympathetic. “Cry me a river, look bud, Louie looks out for number one,” Louie said. “GIVE IT!” Spike tried to grab the safe but Louie shoved him back, with his greater size. “Ugh, stop making me move so much, it's tiring,” Louie said. Spike looked up and he ran at Louie again but Louie picked him up and threw him to the ground. “Get lost buddy, I have video games to play,” Louie said. “How do I get it? This tub of lard won’t budge,” Spike complained. “One thing I know about Louie is that he hates movement, he’s that lazy,” Varek said. “I get that but-” Spike paused and got an idea “Hmm, alright,” Spike then used vanish again. “Huh? Where did-” Suddenly Louie was smacked in the face “Ow! Hey!” Louie swung his hand out but he was smacked again and again from different angles and Louie began getting frustrated and he started swinging his arm around trying to hit his invisible opponent. Louie began to yell in anger and when Spike stood in front of him visible again he tried to grab him only to accidentally fall out of his chair exposing the safe. “Ooof!” Louie grunted “Aw man, now I gotta get up!...” Louie complained. “Sorry about this, but I won’t let him hurt my family,” Spike said as he grabbed the contract out of the safe and tried to leave. “NOOO! WAIT!” Louie cried and Spike paused “If you give him that, I’ll lose everything! Please!” Louie pleaded. “....Cry me a river, my family comes first,” Spike said as he ran out of the room. “NONONO!” Louie struggled to his many feet and he began a gradual chase of Spike “That contract is miiiine!” Louie chased Spike down the hall and Spike ran from the giant caterpillar but paused when he saw the elevator open and more sloths entered the hall. “There he is…” The sloth up front said as they all aimed their guns. “Waitwaitwaitwait! Don’t shoot you nimrods, I’m in the line of fire!” Louie said. “Sorry boss,” The sloths said. “....I got one chance,” Spike said glancing out the window and he ran for it. “NOOOO!” Louie lunged and missed Spike and Spike fell to the ground, using a barrier to soften the landing and he got up and ran for it. “That little!” Louie cursed after him and he turned to the sloths “Well?! Stop him!” Louie demanded. “....But that’s so much work,” The Sloths sighed. “.....Note to self, get less lazy employees next time…” Louie slumped over sadly. Spike made it back to the portal without much else to worry about. YOU ESCAPED! Spike stumbled through the portal and panted before slamming the contract on the desk. “Fantastic, you're surviving much longer than I expected,” Varek said picking the contract up and sliding it into his desk drawer. “That one wasn’t hard at all to be honest, I hope the rest are like that,” Spike said. “Do not get cocky boy, the circle of sloth is easy to survive in, compared to the others at least, but this next one should shatter your confidence,” Varek said “What now?” Spike asked. “Do tell, how are you with cold?” Varek asked. Next time: Amidst a red background a huge shadowy being with a bald head and a stocky body, huge arms and he seemed to be wearing an apron. He held out something that looked like an ice cream cone and said in a deep voice. “Ice cream….you scream… we all scream… for ice cream…” He sang in a quiet tone. Author's Note It's a bit of a small chapter, this was probably Spike's easiest one yet, helps that in the circle of sloth, everyone is lazy. I decided on a more lighthearted one to ease the dread for some people but trust me, things go back to dark after this chapter. Cold hearted/ An alluring offer“I can handle it, why?” Spike asked. “The next place is an ice cream factory in the circle of gluttony, there’s a weirdo there who owes me a contract, go there and take it,” Varek said. “Do I need a coat?” Spike joked a little but he just looked at him unamused “Ok…” Spike sighed before turning and leaving through the portal. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cold Hearted ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike exited the portal and noted the humid environment immediately, he looked around and saw what looked like landscapes of nothing but desert everywhere, and yet in front of him, there was an ice cream cone-shaped building in front of him. “An ice cream parlor?... In hell? Really?” Spike asked. “You’ll see,” Varek chuckled as Spike made his way up to it and saw the neon sign saying ‘Frosty’s frozen yogurt, get it while it’s cold!’ sign. “....This place keeps getting weirder…” Spike sighed. “Get moving, I’m getting bored,” Varek said and Spike went into the building. …Immediately it went from scorching sun to meat locker in a second with the temperature. “Brr!” Spike said feeling cold all of a sudden, as he walked in he felt like needing a coat. “Why is it so cold in here?” Spike asked. “Because it’s where hell froze over,” Varek said. “I’ll get it over with now,” Spike made his way over to the counter and ran a bell. It took a few times but he heard a deep voice from the back. “I’m coming!” He said and Spike nervously stood there before the door opened and he saw a towering mountain of a man with a face reminiscent of a caveman walking out of the doorway, he had to be nine feet tall! “Whoa,” Spike said as he approached. “Aaaahh, new customer, hello little customer, I’m Frosty Franky, what can I get you?” He asked resting his beefy arm on the counter. “Um… h-hi? I um, I’m not here for ice cream,” Spike said. “Not here for ice cream? Why else would you come to my business?” He asked with a raised brow. “...Veraks contract, and before you get mad, I have a time limit so please just hand it over,” Spike pleaded. “.....My contract?.... Oh no, no no no! If you take that, he’ll run me out of business, tell Verak to come here himself and we can negotiate,” He said. “That’s non-negotiable, please save me the effort, please,” Spike said. “Hmm…. oh, I got an idea, you do something for me, and I give you the contract, hmm?” Franky said. “S-sure, whatever gets me somewhere warm sooner,” Spike said. “Hmm? Warm? Warm is bad, makes Franky sweaty, and ruins ice cream,” Franky complained before walking out from behind the counter and leading Spike to an elevator. “Can I trust this guy?” Spike asked. “....What do you think?” Varek asked. “Right…” Spike sighed before he entered with him and the elevator went down. As it went down Spike saw they were passing by a frozen area, and he saw other people, other mortals working on making ice cream, despite the fact they were clearly freezing and miserable. “Wow, this place doesn’t seem to have happy workers,” Spike said. “They have to work, it's their job now that they're in hell, and they get NO breaks, so ice cream is always available,” Franky said with a smile. “This guy is sick,” Spike thought “How come you aren’t cold?” Spike asked. “I don’t get cold, I am cold-proof,” Franky laughed as the elevator arrived and he walked out, Spike following and watching for anything out of the ordinary. As he was walking he noticed something else, small critters that looked like ice cream cones with arms and legs and little faces on them. As cute as they were, he didn’t trust them, why should he given where he is now?... Spike followed Frosty Franky through multiple rooms, and it only got colder as they went in. “D-do you have a sweater or something?” Spike asked. “Nope, I hate warm,” Franky said as he walked. “That isn’t good,” Spike said as they made their way into a hallway to their left and saw a room with a single purple ice cream cone. “Hehehehehe, there it is, our newest flavor, berry boom! Taste it and I’ll give you the contract,” Franky said. “...It’s poisoned isn’t it?” Spike asked. “What? You dare insult my craft!” Franky bellowed angrily. “Sorry sorry!” Spike said as he backed into the room and he picked it up and tasted it to avoid a beating…. It actually taste good? I had a weird texture and second flavor he couldn’t place, but it tasted like berries! He smiled as he tasted it some more. “Wow, not bad actually,” Spike said. “Yay! I made it right, and it only cost me one slave,” Franky said out of the blue. “....What?” Spike said. “Yep, hope you enjoyed my slave puree, it's yummy,” Franky said. “....Slave?... Is that code for something?” Spike hoped. “Nope, threw him in the blender for a few minutes to make sure it wasn’t chunky, and the berry does a good coverup taste so I-” Franky was cut off when Spike gagged and dropped the ice cream. “YOU MADE AN ICE CREAM MADE OF PEOPLE?!” Spike exclaimed. “Yeah, what’s wrong with that? When the sinners die from the cold they don’t serve any other purpose, much more profitable than collecting soul shards, especially in the circle of gluttony,” Franky said with a cackle. “You… sicko! What sane person would eat that?” Spike said. “How dare you?! I’m the best ice cream man ever! And just for that, the deals off!” Franky growled. “N-no! I-” Suddenly he closed a big door trapping Spike in there “NO!” Spike ran up to the door and banged on it as Franky stood on the other side laughing. “Gonna leave you here until you freeze, then I’ll make you ice cream,” Franky chuckled. Let me out!” Spike banged on the door before shivering as the cold was starting to get to him. “Gettin real cold now ain’t it?” Franky said. “I gotta get out of here,” Spike said as he looked around and saw a vent, it was too small though… but an idea came to mind. “Oh look! A vent! I’ll escape through there, vanish!” Spike disappeared and ran over to the vent and opened it. “What?! No!” Franky opened the door and ran over to the vent to stop him, not realizing he’d been had and Spike made his way over to the door and ran out of there. “Thank god this ice cream man isn’t smart,” Spike said as he made his way out of there and back into the hallways. “The shards are further in, not many but there,” Varek said and Spike ran on, shivering. “I gotta get out before I freeze to death,” Spike said as he hurried and found Shards scattered in the big hall and some leading to other hallways. Spike made his way down a hallway to start and proceeded to collect shards as he snagged some more shards he encountered one of the ice cream creatures. “What does it do?” Spike asked. “You might want to run, before he blows up,” Varek said. “Blows u-” Spike questioned before the Ice cream creature suddenly jumped at him and exploded, but not in fire but some kind of icy aura that felt like he was covered in ice cubes. “Brrr!” Spike grunted as it felt like his body temp went down. “They're called frost imps, they lower your temperature by blowing up,” Varek said. “G-g-good to k-know!” Spike got up and ran on collecting shards, as he ran through a hallway that looped around he saw several more imps making their way towards him. “Crud!” Spike tried to turn and run the other way but more came from that side too and they all simultaneously blew up. 2 lives left “Ice scream, you scream, you keep screaming, until you become ice cream,” Varek taunted. Spike woke up outside the halls he was in and he felt warmer now before he was forcibly frozen to death, but still cold. Spike got up and ran for it, not wanting to go through that again. Spike ran on through the area and collected more shards, when he saw more imps exiting a hallway and running at him he changed direction and fled into another hallway and he dodged down the hallway to his right when one imp tried to jump onto him. As Spike made his way down that hallway and encountered an area where more slaves were making ice cream. “Huh? Who are you? Please hug me for warmth!” The sinner begged. “I’m being chased!” Spike exclaimed. “Please! I’m so cold!” He cried as Spike continued fleeing from the ice cream imps into another hallway. Spike ran on into a looping halfway and came to a fork in the halls when he saw more imps coming down that way, he ran down the other way and found more sinners on the other side of the lower pathways. “I NEED WARMTH!” One reached out for Spike but he avoided them. “Just one minute of hugging! Please!” Another reached for him but Spike avoided him too. Spike ran up some steps to his right when he saw them and got back on the pathway above him and he ran from the ice cream creatures. Spike made his way down the pathway and found the remaining shards but a familiar foe got in his way. “YOU TRICKED ME!” Frosty growled as he took a swing at Spike who ducked and ran around him. Frosty grabbed an imp and threw it at Spike and it detonated on him making him colder. “AGH!” Spike grunted, shivering as he tried to ignore it but Franky laughed as he threw another at him and it hit Spike, and made him colder, he began to slow down and then Franky pelted him with more until he felt his body going numb. He reached out and grabbed the last shard before collapsing and Franky walked over. “You’ll make a fine frosty cone… heheheh,” Franky picked up Spike and punched him with his huge arm. 1 life left “Sheesh, I can hear your teeth chatter from here,” Varek said. Spike got up back near the exit. “Out of tries, last chance mortal,” Varek said. “Tell me where it is,” Spike said. “Seems he hid it under his cash register on the surface floor,” Varek said and Spike nodded before heading back to the elevator and opening it, as he went in he saw the elevator closing before suddenly a pair of hands grabbed the doors and forced them open. “YOU'RE NOT LEAVING,” a frenzied Franky said before he tried to get in. “CRAP!” Spike used his barrier and ran up to wedge himself between the elevator door and the exit, Franky roared as he pounded on the barrier but then Spike, who was panicking, did the only thing he thought to do… he ran up as the barrier was dissipating and he drove his finger forward and into Franky’s eye. “AAGH!” Franky stumbled back clutching his bleeding eye as the door closed and went up. “Hah…hah… did we make it?” Spike asked. “You're not out until you get in the portal,” Varek said. “Ok,” Spike said as he ran out of the elevator and he hopped over the counter when he got there, he saw the register, and below it was a safe, Spike waited until Varek opened it and he retrieved the contract… before a door slammed open and Spike turned to see Franky stomping up to him. And his eye was healed too… great… “I’M GOING TO GRIND YOU INTO ICE CREAM FILLER WITH MY HANDS!” Franky said before grabbing Spike and throwing him over the counter and against a wall. Spike got up but Franky vaulted over the counter and picked Spike up before raising him up and slamming him through another table, he then picked up Spike again and slammed him on the counter, and dragged him around it knocking stuff off before throwing him and Spike tumbled on the ground. Spike tried to crawl towards the exit but Franky grabbed him by his leg and dragged him back before picking him up and slamming him against a wall. “Heheheheh, iiiiice cream, yoooou scream,” He spun and tossed Spike to the ground “We allllll scream,” He put a foot on Spike’s chest and raised a fist “For ice cream!” He was ready to swing down with his fist. ….”I’ll protect you,” A voice said before Spike looked up, hearing that familiar voice… and then suddenly a bright light filled the room and he paused and looked up. “Huh? What’s this?” Franky said shielding his eyes and… and then suddenly a glowing figure rammed Franky off of him and sent him flying into a wall. Spike looked up weakly as the glowing figure extended a hand. “Your family needs you Spike, go!” She said. “Who are you-” Spike was cut off as he saw Franky getting up and running at them, the glowing figure tackled him back, somehow overpowering him. “GO!” She said. “O-ok!” Spike said as he managed to get up and he limped his way to the door and he made his way back out into the desert, the dry heat almost a welcome feeling again as he made his way back into the portal. “NOOOOOO!” Franky cried as he tried to chase Spike but the angel teleported in front of him and he paused. “You're breaking the rules!” Franky growled. “So be it,” She said before she disappeared as Spike had escaped and the portal vanished. “NO!” Franky cried. YOU ESCAPED! Spike stumbled back into the room, and saw it was empty. “Huh? Varek?” Spike said looking around. “Oh, your back…” Varek said as he came back with papers in hand and he sat down at his desk and sighed. “What?” Spike asked. “I was busy, the none of your business kind of busy,” Varek said before he held out his hand and Spike gave him the contract. “I am sending you on your next task immediately,” Varek said. “Why immedi-” Spike questioned but Varek slammed his hand down startling him. “Do NOT question me, I am dealing with multiple headaches at once right now, take this power for faster running, it’ll get this over with faster,” Varek said using his magic immediately to replace Spike’s barrier power with speed boost “Now get moving,” Varek said. “Fine…” Spike said not wanting to argue and he made his way into the portal. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- An alluring offer… ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike made his way out into what looked like an alleyway. As he looked around he saw gates on both sides of the alleyway and the only notable thing in the alley was a glowing neon sign that mentioned a club of sorts. “The Glowing Moon?” Spike read it, as he got closer he saw a big burly man with his face hidden standing there. “Hnngh…” The man growled at him. It almost sounded like a dogs growl…. “U-uh, hello, I am here on behalf of-” Suddenly the man stuck out his hand and Spike flinched a little as he did, he suddenly gestured he was to give him something. “Um… what?” Spike asked. “Hnngh!” The man growled again and pointed at his hand. “I don’t-” Spike paused and saw a sign behind him. “Marked human tickets must be handed in on entry?.... What?” Spike asked. “A marked human is a human who was sent to hell and has been marked for a certain place in hell, You're not one, since your time isn’t up yet,” Varek explained, though he still sounded annoyed for some reason. “Ok,” Spike said before turning back to the guard “Look, I’m not a ‘marked human’ I’m here on behalf of-” “HNNGH!” The man growled shoving Spike back. “Hey!” Spike got back up “I’m trying to say I’m here on behalf of-” but once again the big man picked him up and slammed him against the wall before growling in his face. “Can you speak?” Spike asked a little nervously. The creature growled and raised a fist, getting ready to hit Spike and Spike held up his arms in defense. “Varek! I’m here on his demand!” Spike exclaimed. “....” The man paused… and set him down before walking back to his spot and gesturing for him to go on in. “Ooook,” Spike said carefully walking around him and hurrying along when he got through the doorway. As Spike made his way through a bunch of dangling beads he eventually found his way into a club room. There was a bar, a series of tables and a stage for some reason. Spike carefully made his way across the club wondering where he is. “Is this a-” “No, but trust me, you shouldn’t stick around… there’s a reason this place has new customers everyday, all of them mortal, and don’t sit in the seats,” Varek warned him. “O-ok,” Spike knew that threat was real by now and so he looked around. Eventually, he approached another mortal who was drinking. “Hey… um, do you know who runs this joint?” Spike asked. “Shaddup, I’m drinkin here,” He slurred. “Oook,” Spike went to a couple women who were laughing. “I need to-” Spike didn’t finish as they waved him off. Spike attempted several times to get help but nobody paid him any mind. He began to get frustrated. “Why isn’t anyone helping me?” Spike asked. “Are you forgetting what kind of people end up in hell? They got no reason to help, not to mention what their drinking is making them complacent,” Varek said. “Ugh, luckily I quit drinking when I got the money,” Spike sighed and he looked around some more before he spotted a guy who was laughing by himself. …Spike made his way over to him, getting a feeling, he tapped his shoulder and he turned to see Spike. “Hey! Here to enjoy the show?” He asked. “No I’m here to find the boss,” Spike said. “Eh, good luck, she’s not one to talk to us dregs of existence, she’d rather dance,” He said. “Who’s she?” Spike asked. “Calls herself Mistress Moonlight… Or just Moon for short, she’s quite the babe, too bad all we’re here for is for her to perform for and then there's… the bad part of this place…” He said. “What do you mean?” Spike asked. “Sit down, you're stuck, drink and you're made a complacent little slave, look at and listen to her… and you can’t stop,” He said. “What?” Spike said and suddenly he heard a ringing noise and he turned to see the door at the back of the stage which had two burly guards standing in front of it. And it opened, and out came- “...Rarity?...” Spike gasped. “Who’s Rarity?” The man hiccuped, clearly drunk. “M-my wife,” Spike said as he saw her, she was unmistakable, her flowing bluish purple hair, he whitish skin, her beautiful blue eyes. “Huh… didn’t know you were married to Mrs Moon,” He huffed taking another swig. “Hello my darlings…. Ready for another song before the feeding? Because I’m sure you're all hungry for more of me!” She declared before she started singing to a cheering crowd. Her voice… it was so melodic that Spike could feel himself slipping into a trance- and then he snapped out of it. “Huh?” Spike realized he now had earplugs. “Better to not listen to her siren song,” Varek said. “Varek… why is my wife here?” Spike asked. “Figure that out for yourself,” Varek said. Spike went to go onto the stage where the woman resembling his wife was dancing and singing when two guards got in his way. “Out of my way, that’s my wife!” Spike said. “Hnngh!” The guard grabbed Spike and shoved him to the floor. “Agh! Let me through!” Spike got up and threw a punch but it glanced off the body of the burly figure like a fly against a brick wall. He then picked Spike up and tossed him down again. Spike tried to get up but he felt it grab his head and lift him up. As it was about to punch him he heard through the earplugs her voice. “Easy now boys, I’ll take care of him, you begin the prep,” She said and the two grunted and walked away. Rarity stood over him looking down at him. “My oh my, what have we here?” She asked with a smirk. “Rarity…” Spike stood up and stared at her but he was unsure “Is that you?” Spike asked. “Guilty as charged,” She said playfully. “H-how… why are you down here? What about Lance? And Scout?” Spike said. “They're fine, everything’s fine dear,” She said. “Rares… what’s happening?!” Spike demanded. “Let’s just say, not everything is what it seems, one second,” She said before she got up on the stage again and announced. “Well! Now wasn’t that a wholesome song wasn’t it? Well, boys, feel free to begin, I’ll see you all when you get back!” She waved before she hopped down. “What?” Spike questioned. “Oh it’s just the feeding,” She said dismissively. “What feeding?” Spike asked. “Theirs,” She said with a smirk and suddenly Spike heard a scream and he turned to see a guard was attacking the ladies from before, eating them!? “HUH?!” Spike said before he heard a cry to his right and he turned to see a guard biting into the flesh of the guy he was talking to earlier. All around Spike he saw the guards devouring the people. “RARITY!? What is happening?!” Spike demanded. “Oh don’t worry, they’ll resurrect eventually, and it’ll all happen again, and again, and again, and again…. Hahaha! Isn’t it wonderful?” She chuckled. “You… you're not Rarity! She’d never approve of this!” Spike said angrily. “Oh, you caught me,” She said mockingly “Yes, I am actually a demoness who changes to what a person perceives as their ideal partner, and the fact you see your wife with no edits, you're a rare breed indeed, among humans at least,” She said with a smile. “...I came on the behalf of Varek, times up,” Spike said wanting to leave, now. “....” Suddenly the burly guys paused and looked at Spike. “Huh?” Spike said. “That name isn’t well liked around here, he’s just a debt collector trying to up his rank in hell so that he’ll be second to none, personally though, I’m satisfied where I’m at,” She said as she sat on a table in an alluring way. “Well… I still need that contract, and stop wearing my wife's face,” Spike demanded. “Oh don’t be so mean, here’s another idea…. You give up this errand of yours, and join me?” She asked. “What?” Spike said. “Think of it, you’ll sever you-know-who’s strings and still get someone like your wife… but better in every way, you can be free of this journey of yours and you’ll never have to worry or want for anything ever again,” She said lying on a table. “....You know about-” “Of course I do, word travels fast in hell, a human outdoing demons left and right on behalf of him, it's intriguing,” She said. “....” Spike wanted to accept knowing that his suffering will be over…. But the images of his family being killed by that demon Varek… he couldn’t let it happen! “I refuse,” Spike said “My family needs me! Now give me your contract!” Spike said. “....Truly incorruptible….. Fascinating, I love a challenge,” She giggled before flipping off the table and brandishing something before swinging it at Spike. Spike just noticed that he had a cut on his face and he realized she used a barbed whip of sorts. “Boys, we have some tricky prey here, capture or kill him, preferably capture him,” She smiled. And the guards growled before removing their hats revealing they had the faces of bulldogs. “What the?” Spike backed away. “My loyal dogs, sic him!” Moon ordered and the guards descended on him. “AAAHHH!” Spike ran for it but he wouldn’t make it, but he had asked enough times to remember that he had a new ace. He triggered his speed boost and ran past the guards and over to a trash chute and he jumped down it narrowly avoiding a guard who reached in after him. Spike arrived at the bottom of a dumpster. He quickly climbed out and looked around. “Ugh… great, now I smell,” Spike said. “Clever boy, better get moving, Mistress Moonlight will be after you,” Varek said and Spike nodded before running up a hallway and making his way into a series of corridors. He found the shards quickly and began collecting them. As he ran around collecting shards he found there were more bunched up than the other places. Spike ran around a corner and grabbed another before he saw something coming at him from the other side of the hallway. A guard! Spike ran the other way and narrowly avoided another guard as he ran past a fork in the hallways. Spike made his way out into the back hallways as the guards barreled after him, just as he thought he was getting away suddenly a wall came down and another guard came through. “WHOA!” Spike evaded a grab from this dog guard and fled on through the building. He knew it had recharged by now so he used his speed boost and ran away faster, losing the guards in the process and collecting more shards. “Whew! I think I’m going to like this pow-” Spike ran full-on into another guard who grabbed him by his neck while he was trying to get up and snapping it. 2 lives left: “Next time watch where you're going maybe,” Varek said. Spike woke up by the dumpster and sighed as he got up and cracked his neck. Spike then made his way through the halls and made his way down the other side, using his speed boost to collect more shards and he kept his eyes peeled for any sudden guards. Spike ran on but as soon as a guard broke through a wall and went after him he skidded to a stop and ran the other way, he turned a corner and fled down that way before vanishing to disappear from sight. “Hnngh?!” The guard looked around for him. “Spiiiiike, you wouldn’t rob me would you?” Moon's voice echoed over the intercom. “Stop using Rarity's voice!” Spike thought angrily as he continued collecting shards around the lower floors. Eventually, Varek contacted him as he used this strategy to hide and run. “Seems like you're getting the hang of this boy, you’ve cleared the lower floor, now for the upper,” Varek said. “Ok!” Spike found a staircase and he saw a guard going down it so he used invisibility to sneak under him between his legs and get behind him without him seeing. Spike made his way to the upper floor and found himself in a secondary club. With more people just chatting around. Spike ignored them and ran on collecting shards. As Spike entered a place with what looked like machines people were playing on Spike ran around them and collected shards, knocking one guy out of his chair. “HEY! WATCH IT!” He yelled after Spike. “Sorry!” Spike called as he ran on. Spike ran into another area and saw more guards rounding the corner and spotting him. “Vanish!” Spike disappeared and made his way around them. Spike made his way down some stairs and ran into a bar, he ran into that area and collected the shards. When he turned around he saw guards blocking the exit. Spike got an idea and used vanish again. The guards got ready for him to sneak past but instead, Spike grabbed the lemon wedge out of a guys drink and squeezed it over his hands and he then snuck up to the guard and flung lemon juice in his eyes. “GRR!” The guard rubbed his eyes as that happened and Spike took the chance to sneak past and run away. Spike made his way through an area with poles for dancing when he saw some guards searching for him, he got down low in the crowd there and snuck past them as they walked past. Using the crowd Spike managed to get out of that area. Spike made his way through another bar area and collected the last few shards. “Good work, I sense the safe is located in the surface floor, you better move too,” Varek said. Spike looked around and saw guards coming out of rooms left and right. Their eyes red and their mouths foaming. “Tch!” Spike ran down the only way they weren’t and fled from them as they chased. They weren’t being careful here either… They began smashing aside people and walls they ran across trying to get him. Spike ran out into the area with poles as the guards came after him. “Where do I go?!” Spike asked. “Head straight,” Varek said. Spike made his way through and ran on ahead and spotted a staircase. Spike ran up the stairs while the guards barreled after him up the stairs and he made it through some strung-up beads and he saw the main showroom. He spotted the safe sitting meticulously on the stage and he ran over and collected the safe and removed the contract. Spike made for the exit but then a whip grabbed him by the neck and yanked him to the floor. Spike got up and saw Moon standing there. “Here I was hoping we’d be friends,” She pouted before she swung the whip and Spike ducked it, but the whip snared a chair and she tugged back and the chair hit Spike sending him stumbling. “Tch!” Spike said. “What do you think awaits you at the end of all this?” Mistress Moonlight said. “My family is safe,” Spike said. “Hahahahahahaa! Varek won’t keep his promise, he stands to lose alot of credibility if he lets you off the hook,” Moon said. “No, he promised!” Spike said. “Grow up, a promise, is just words,” Moon said before she lashed Spike again sending him into a table, she grabbed him with her whip and flung Spike into the arms of a guard who shoved him back in. Spike stumbled around her and threw a punch but it didn’t affect Moon who just smirked. “Hitting a lady? And I thought you were a gentleman,” She chuckled before she grabbed him and threw him onto the stage. She hopped up on there with him. “Care to dance before you die?” She asked. “Just… don’t wear my wife’s face while killing me,” Spike said. “Oooh, alright,” She said mockingly before she turned into him “I find you dying like this more ironic anyways,” She said as she raised the whip. “Thanks… now I can do this!” Spike suddenly activated his speed boost and he suddenly rammed her and took her off her feet and rammed her through the exit. “AAAGH!” She grunted as he slammed her against the alley wall. Spike struggled to his feet but she had returned to Rarity’s form and chuckled. “So, this is how it ends for my club, just know, Varek will never keep his end of the deal,” Moon chuckled. “....” Spike got up. “Deep down, you know as long as he has you under his thumb, your screwed,” She said before laughing. “...” Spike turned and ran down the alleyway as guards were exiting the club to chase him, but with a speed boost, he was out of there. YOU ESCAPED! Spike stumbled through and panted. “Not bad boy, I am beginning to wonder if you have potential as a debt collector,” Varek chuckled. “I plan to return to my family after we’re done,” Spike said. “Yes… indeed, so moving on, we are low on time, so let us begin another,” Varek said. “Fine, what?” Spike asked. Did you ever get involved with the police? Next time: Amidst a red background a giant shadowy being wielding what looks like a massive baton stood there, he had a chain around his chest and a police cap and you can hear his deep breathing. Also in the background you can hear police sirens Author's Note A surprise double-level feature, and expect another soon. Spike is making progress, but will he really be able to defeat hell to save his loved ones? Police brutality/ A new friend is 'made'“You're going after the police,” Varek said. “...There’s-” “YES! If theirs something in the human world, likely hell has a version of it, enough with that question!” Varek sighed. “Ok ok! Sorry,” Spike said. “In any case I gave a larger than yours amount to a group of demons who had this hair-brained idea that they could emulate human world cops, to torment those who were incarcerated before death, but they seem to think they above paying, show them their wrong,” Varek said. “Ok,” Spike said as he turned and left through the portal. “...Heheheh, too bad he doesn’t know this group has a really big enforcer,” Varek chuckled. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Police brutality ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike exited the portal and found himself outside of a police station. “Ok, what’s waiting for me in there?” Spike asked as he walked up to the place. …Not noticing he’s being watched… “Code red… he’s here, alert Zeke,” The being in the bush said into a walkie-talkie. “Affirmative,” The voice said back. Spike made his way up to the building and peeked through the window. He saw a normal lobby with someone sitting at a desk. “Good so far,” Spike said before turning around… and getting a nightstick to the face knocking him to the ground. “Hah! Got you myself, guess Zeke doesn’t need to get his hands dirty after all,” the police uniform-dressed person said, his skin was grey like Varek’s but his eyes were red. “Van-” Spike didn’t finish as he beat him some more with the nightstick. “You're under arrest! For trespassing!” He kicked Spike onto his back and climbed on top of him. “Don’t worry buddy, you’ll be going away for the rest of your life!” He laughed before hitting Spike in the face and knocking him into a daze. Spike’s vision was bleary as he was being dragged by his shirt into the station. “Hey Ricky! I got him!” He said. “Not my fault if Zeke beats you up for stealing his prey, Brad,” The cop stationed at the counter said getting up and walking over. “Why hello there, we’re your new friends for life, get used to it,” He then kicked Spike in the face and Spike hit the ground. “If you got a million dollars we can let you off the hook!” The two laughed as they dragged him through a jail area and then Spike heard rumbling noises and a huge blurry figure entered his view. “He a new prisoner?” A dull sounding voice said. “Uh, yeah, but he…. Tripped on his way in, sorry Zeke,” Brad said. “Aww…” Zeke sighed. “Hey cheer up big guy, we can put him in interrogations later and you can wail on him to your heart's content,” Ricky said. “Sounds good!” Zeke said sounding content with that as he left. “Heheh, thank goodness he’s stupid,” Ricky said as they dragged Spike and tossed him into a jail cell and tossed him in. “Wake up…” A familiar female voice said and Spike opened his eyes and sat up. “Huh? You're up earlier than I expected,” Brad said as he stood by the cell “Go on, eat, you’ll need your energy when Zeke beats the hell outta you, heh,” He laughed as he set the food down outside of Spike’s cell. Bread and a potato… “Thanks…” Spike reached out for the food… before a pee stream hit the food. Spike winced in disgust as he saw a dog he hadn’t seen before peeing on his food. “Hah! Good boy Rover!” Brad laughed as he and his hellhound left. “...” Spike silently cursed them with every curse word he knew and he sat back in his cell. “Well? Aren’t you going to leave?” Varek boredly said. “How? I’m trapped,” Spike said. “Giving up? After all this? Pathetic,” Varek said. “I’m so tired… so much death, so much pain… I don’t know how much more I can handle…” Spike droned, feeling the weight of this whole situation on his soul. “If you wish to give up, simply say so and I’ll save you and return you home… in exchange for your wife and children,” Varek said, sounding eager to hear a yes. “.....I-” Spike was about to say it… but suddenly a vision came to him… one that erased his doubt. Varek breaking into his home, kidnapping his family, and feeding them to his dogs…. He couldn’t bear the thought… and it sent new strength through him. “No… NO!” Spike stood up and smacked his face to snap out of it “I’M NOT GIVING UP!” Spike said before shaking the bars. “...Hmmph,” Varek huffed. “Hey! Quite down there!” The guard nearby yelled. “NOT ON YOUR LIFE! My family needs me!” Spike said. “I don’t care, shut up!” The guard said walking over. “Then I’m getting through!” Spike backed up, knowing this’ll hurt he got ready… and he speed boost shoulder rammed the door open and busted the jail cell open and sent the guard tumbling. “OW!” Spike grunted feeling his shoulder was dislocated, he managed to reset it and quickly get moving. “Prison break! CODE RED CODE RED!” The guard shouted on his walkie talkie and several guards burst into the area and began chasing Spike. “Vanish!” Spike disappeared and they paused. “Dangit! Where is he?!” They said. Spike snuck through a door and panted heavily… he couldn’t give up, not when his family needed him, he’d been to rock bottom, and he wasn’t about to let them hit it as well! Spike ran from there and made it into another hallway, seeing soul shards he made to collect them while running, as he collected them a camera saw him and an alarm went off. “He’s over there!” A guard rounded a corner and pursued Spike down the pathway. Spike continued running even as several guards got in his way and they blocked him. “Speed boost!” Spike said and he sped up. “Uhm… he’s not slowing down!” The guards readied themselves and Spike wound up blowing past them. “CRAP!” One grunted as he hit a wall. “Heh, why the sudden fire?” Varek asked. “I’m not in the mood,” Spike said as he went on to dodge around a corner and into another hallway. As Spike made his way to the other side of the hall a wall came down and he paused as a hulking monster of a cop came out and stared down at him. He was massive, had a baton as big as he was and a chain around his chest. “Oh crap,” Spike said as he raised his baton. “YOUR UNDER ARREST!” He slammed it down and Spike dodged as the slam broke the concrete. “Yeah! Get’em Zeke!” The guards cheered from afar. “I will break you!” He grabbed at Spike who jumped away and used vanish to disappear. “Huh? Where you go?” Zeke looked around and Spike fled into another hallway where he saw more shards and collected them. Spike made his way down that hall and into another prison area full of cells, as he ran past he noticed other sinners were locked up in cells. He was determined to not end up like them! Spike ran around the area collecting shards, he accidentally triggered another camera, and as he finished collecting all in this area Zeke plowed through another wall and chased after him. “Found you!” Zeke said swinging his baton at Spike who ducked it and fled into another hallway but Zeke was on him. As Spike was making his way out of there he heard barking and saw a few hellhounds closing in on him, he panicked and tried to run past them but they pounced on him and tore into him. 2 Lives left: “I hope they throw away the key when they're done with you,” Varek laughed. Spike woke in his original cell and he wasted no time getting out of there and running back through the area and making his way back through the doors into the lobby. Spike ran past a surprised cop in the lobby. “HEY! Stop right there!” he pulled out a taser and ran after him but Spike rounded the corner and knocked over a potted plant which tripped him up. Spike ran on before a wall behind him busted down and Zeke ran into the hall and chased after Spike. “RAAAAGH!” Zeke swung his giant police baton and smashed another wall in. “Easy Zeke! You trying to bring the whole place down?!” Another guard said. “He evade! I pursue!” Zeke ignored and he plowed through a wall instead of going around it. Zeke chased Spike into a solitary confinement area and Spike dodged down another hallway to his right and evaded Zeke who came around the corner. Spike had been collecting shards the whole time but when Zeke saw a chance he tore a bench out of the ground and chucked it at Spike, hitting him and knocking him down. Spike got up but Zeke did a jumping drop kick that smashed Spike against a wall. 1 Life left: “It’s the stony lonesome for you, amidst an empty graveyard,” Varek said. Spike got up and staggered out of the cell, he forced himself to go on and make his way down to the other side of the jail cells and he heard barking, meaning one thing… “Hellhounds,” Spike turned and saw several running for him, he dove behind a door and blocked it, preventing the dogs from getting through. Spike hurried on through the corrupt police station and made his way into an office area, and he collected the last several shards. “That’s all of them, go to the lobby, the safe is there,” Varek said. “Ok,” Spike made his way down the office area and into the hallway that leads to the lobby. As he entered suddenly a door smashed down and Zeke appeared. “Why you not quit!?” Zeke demanded as he chased Spike. “Speed boost!” Spike said as he sped away from the giant and went around the corner as another officer tried to stop him. Spike ran towards the lobby where two guards were standing and Spike paused. “Nowhere to run now little man, Zeke will find you soon,” They said. “I didn’t come this far for nothing!” Spike said as he ran up to them and one tried to jab him with a taser but Spike caught his arm and managed to wrench the taser out of his hand before tasing the other guy who tried to strike him with a police baton. “Aaagh!” The other guy fell over and Spike dodged a punch by the other demon and tased him too. Afterwards Spike ran over to the desk and went behind it and found the safe in a drawer, he pulled out the contract and ran for the exit. “STOP HIM!” the guards on the ground yelled. And a camera caught Spike leaving the area and an alarm went off. Spike made his way onto the outside of the police station and he was almost to the portal when something leaped out from behind it and punched Spike sending him tumbling. As Spike got up he saw Zeke approaching and Spike hobbled back. “Zeke smash you now, lethal force authorized!” Zeke growled before turning his baton on and it turned out to be a giant taser. “Tch! Vanish!” Spike disappeared and Zeke looked around but stayed close to the portal, he looked around and saw footprints in the dirt. “RAAH!” Zeke swung his arm and struck Spike sending him flying against a nearby police car denting it and knocking him out. “Spike,” Spike woke up quickly and he looked up to see Zeke picking him up and throwing him. Spike tumbled on the ground and Zeke laughed as he walked towards him. “I…can’t lose here, I need to save my family… I need to win!” Spike said before getting up and turning to see Zeke approaching. “You no win this…” Zeke said in his simple tone. “Watch me,” Spike said before he used speed boost to run for the portal and Zeke jumped in front of the portal and swatted Spike aside. Despite the pain Spike rolled to his feet and ran for the portal. “You annoying little-” Zeke raised his baton and swung it down at Spike. “Vanish!” Spike said before dodging and running around him and Zeke swung his baton wildly. Spike got some distance and saw Zeke in front of the portal, turning he saw a dozen cops exiting the building to aid Zeke. “You no get through!” Zeke said. “I will!” Spike said before speed-boosting and running at Zeke who raised his fist and slammed it down but Spike slid under him and jumped into the portal. “NO!” Zeke cried as he tried to jump in after him but the portal closed and he hit the ground. “Aw crap…” The guards said realizing the implications. YOU ESCAPED! Spike handed the contract to Varek who took it with a grin. “Nice work, very nice,” Verak said. “How close are we to being done?” Spike asked. “Two more and you're done,” Varek said. “Alright… How much time do I have?” Spike asked hesitantly. “Five hours, clocks ticking,” Varek said. “...Better than I thought,” Spike said knowing he couldn’t afford anymore passing out, times almost up. “I have a special mission for you, before you leave,” Varek said. “What?” Spike said eager to move on. “That angel that’s been following you around, she’s not supposed to be here, I want your aid in capturing her,” Varek said. “What?!” Spike said. “Yes, bringing an angel down will significantly boost my standing,” Varek said. “No, I can’t in good conscience do that,” Spike said. “Even with your family on the line?” Varek asked with a raised brow. “...No, she’s helped me more than you, give me a chance, I’ll convince her to leave,” Spike said. “Meh, whatever gets her out of my hair,” Varek waved Spike off and he waved him off. “Alright,” Spike left the area and went into the portal. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A new friend is made ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike made his way into the hallways of what looked like an old factory, looking up Spike saw a sign. “Joy .co?” Spike said out loud. “I remember this crackpot,” Varek said. “Great,” Spike said as he hurried down the hallway, when he got there he saw this cardboard cutout of a pale-skinned woman with orange hair and a blue dress pointing down a hallway. “Great,” Spike said as he made his way down multiple hallways, encountering a cutout each time. He eventually made his way past a window and even though he was on a time crunch he couldn’t help but notice the weirdest thing on the other side of the window. Bunnies, giant plush bunnies were walking around. “....No comment,” Spike said as he walked up to a double door and opened it. Spike saw the woman from the cutout, standing over amidst a series of pathways stationed over machinery. She was talking with one of the rabbits. Suddenly it pointed at Spike and she turned and smiled wide. “HEEEEEY!” She cried in a joyful tone that was like nails on a chalkboard. “Look, I don’t have time for this, give me the contract and I’ll leave,” Spike said. “....HAHAHAHA! Why would you leave? I haven’t given you your own cuddle buddy yet,” She said as she skipped up to Spike. “Look lady, I don’t have time for this, please give it to me,” Spike said. “Nope! Not till you get a cuddle buddy!” She said before curtseying “I’m Joy by the way, and I own this humble little toy factory,” Joy said. “If I get a cuddle buddy will you give me the contract without fuss?” Spike asked. “Sure thiiing!” She sang and she then skipped off towards a doorway and gestured for Spike to go through. “Alright,” Spike said knowing by now this was going to be difficult. But Spike followed her and she ran down the hallways while holding her arms out and making airplane noises much to Spike's confusion. “She's like a kid in an adult body,” Spike said. “Yeah it's kind of her shtick,” Varek said. He continued to follow her until they made it to a window where a plain white cuddle buddy was standing. “All righty mister first let's picture your favorite color mine is pink but also blue,” she giggled. “Yeah yeah,” Spike just clicked the color orange. “Aww you sour puss you didn't even check,” she pouted. “Like I said I'm on time crunch,” Spike said. “Okie come along my friend,” Joy said as she continued running down the hallway like she was flying Spike sighed and followed her down there. After making some distance they arrived and Spike saw his orange cuddle buddy through a window. “Next mister, pick a patch for their stomach, I personally like the flower!” She giggled. Spike rolled his eyes and picked the one that looked like a dragon, because it looked cool. “Hmmm, not what I would have gone with,” She said before ‘flying’ off again. Once they got to the next step she showed it to Spike. “Lastly do you want him to have a decal? I was thinking a necklace or earrings or-” Spike pressed a button that had a symbol for a flower. She drew a prolonged gasp “That’s my favorite too!” She cheered. As she ran over to a doorway and opened it. “Come! Meet your new and last best friend!” She said. “Ok, fine,” Spike said as he walked into the room “Just give me the contract after- CLANG, LOCK “I hate this place…” Spike sighed turning around to see Joy waving at him. “Hiiiii, soooo, problem, I can’t give the contract to you, but I can still give you a cuddle buddy, he’s really excited to meet you,” She giggled. Spike heard a noise and turned… before being slashed across the face by a claw and he stumbled back clutching his bleeding face. “HAHAHAHA! Isn’t that the best part, I just made you design your own killer!” She laughed hysterically as the orange rabbit hopped off the belt having sprouted metal claws. “Tch!...” Spike avoided two more swings from the Rabbit and dodged around it using vanish. “Noooope, no powers will save you here,” She giggled. “Shut up you nutcase!” Spike said as he looked around for an escape and he saw a vent up higher in the room. He became visible again and the rabbit lunged at him but he evaded and jumped onto the conveyor belt before climbing on the machinery. “What are you doing?! NO, stay and get butchered!” She shouted after Spike as Spike pulled the vent from the wall and climbed in. “NOOO! NO NO NO NO! This is not how it goes!” She shouted after Spike as the cuddle buddy couldn’t follow. Spike crawled through the vent as fast as he could but when he got to the other side he found himself in another room and he hopped down. Suddenly a p.a system came on and Spike looked up. “Attention cuddle buddies, we have a big meanie refusing to play with his cuddle buddy, go get him!” Joy ordered. Spike sighed and he ran into a hallway and made his way past several machineries developing more of those killer rabbits. Spike ran down a hallway but didn’t notice what was on the ceiling… a green cuddle buddy, and it descended onto him pinning him. “Agh!” Spike yelped as it moved in to stab. 2 lives left “They wanna cuddle, forever, until you die,” Varek taunted. Spike woke up back in the room and found several rabbits already in the room, he used a speed boost to escape them but they were on his tail and they were surprisingly fast. Spike continued to run until he was sure he evaded them. As he saw his chance to collect more shards he did so this time he paid attention to the ceiling so that nothing could the drop on him again. As Spike ran through the toy factory a door opened and he paused to see Joy standing there. “Heehee! Not letting you leave… ALIVE!” She said before pulling out a knife and running at Spike. Spike used vanish and disappear avoiding a swing for his neck. “Where did you go?!” She looked around while Spike made his way out the door she entered through. When vanish wore out Spike made his way to the other side of the business area. There were more of those demented rabbits on production lines being moved throughout the factory. Spike saw more shards hovering over the conveyors and he decided to climb onto them and he hopped from one to the next, collecting shards, when he suddenly heard noises and he turned to see more buddies jumping down from upper catwalks to pursue him. Spike hurried across the multiple conveyor belts as the rabbits chased him. “There he is! Get him!” Spike looked up and saw Joy on a catwalk above him and several rabbits jumped down to swarm him. Spike hurried to avoid them dropping down on him and he got to the other side of the production line and ran into a doorway as two bunnies tried to charge him from both sides of the catwalk. “You're getting quite used to fighting monsters, eh Spike,” Varek asked. “Yeah,” Spike said as he ran up some stairs while the bunnies clung to the walls with their claws and climbed across them to keep up with him. Spike made his way out onto a catwalk and saw Joy leap from hers and onto his catwalk. “Stop being so persistent! You think you can escape my bunnies?” Joy said as she ran forward and swung her knife and cut Spike on the arm but Spike used this opportunity to grab her arm. What he didn’t expect is for her to lunge forward and bite his arm, drawing blood. “AAAGH!” Spike shoved the psycho off and she got up with blood on her mouth. “Heeheehee! You taste bad!” She giggled as she flipped to her feet. “You're a lunatic!” Spike said getting up as he saw the rabbits approaching from the other side. “Is it that I’m insane? Or the only sane one here?” She snarked before she lunged with her knife in hand and Spike saw the rabbits charging from the other side. Knowing he had only one chance Spike jumped up on the railing and leaped towards a lower catwalk. “Huh?!” Joy exclaimed as she watched him land there and he got up and ran. She snorted angrily and turned to her rabbits “Stop him!” She said as she jumped down after him and the rabbits ran into the doorway to cut him off. Meanwhile Spike ran on through the area, he ran into a series of hallways and ran down a hallway to his right and collected the remaining shards. As Spike rounded a corner and collected the last shard he saw two of Joy’s cuddle rabbits walking by and they spotted Spike so one picked the other up and threw it at him. “Yikes!” Spike dodged avoiding being skewered by the rabbit and he turned to flee… SHULK And ran into another rabbit that shanked him with its claws. 1 life left: “Guess you should have gotten your cuddle buddy in the mail instead,” Varek chuckled. Spike looked up and found himself in the room he was in when he started collecting shards, suddenly Vareks voice came. “That was the last of the shards, but good luck getting the contract,” Varek said. “Why?” Spike asked. “Joy has it,” Varek said. “Great…” Spike said before he climbed back into the vent he used to get in hoping Joy forgot about this room and he crawled back into the room he was trapped in, and he was right, it was empty and the door was open. Spike hopped down and ran out of the room and back into the hallway. As he went back down the hallways that led to where he entered he heard familiar noises and he paused when he saw a dozen frenzied Rabbits cutting him off. “Vanish!” Spike used his trusty invisibility and he ran past the rabbits who were swinging their arms around trying to hit him, nicking him once or twice. Spike made it to the entrance room where once he became visible he looked around. “Heeheehee! I knew you’d come here,” Joy’s voice said echoing around him. “Come out!” Spike said before she suddenly dropped from the ceiling and he turned in time to be pinned down by her. “You're a dummy if you think Varek will revoke your deal!” She said as she swung her knife down to stab Spike in the face but he dodged his head around the stabs and he punched her, she didn’t seem to care as she grabbed Spike by his neck and began strangling him. “Look me in the eye, and feel my JOY!” She giggled manically as she tried to throttle him. Spike was panicking but he spotted that she had cast her knife aside to strangle him, he reached over and grabbed her knife before stabbing it upwards and into her head. She gasped as the knife punctured her brain and she flopped onto Spike dead. Spike rolled her off of him and panted heavily. He then got onto her and searched her, before finding the contract, outside a safe this time on her person. He got up and left when he heard her giggling and he turned to see her standing, knife still punctured through her skull, but she simply pulled it out. “Heeheehee…. That stung a little…” She giggled before she licked the blood off. “Nope!” Spike turned and ran through the doorways as she chased him. Spike ran like heck while Joy ran after him, swishing her knife at the air. Spike ran until his heart felt like it was going to burst, and when he rounded the last corner he saw the portal up ahead. Spike hurried down that way as Joy rounded the corner as well she threw the knife at Spike. “DIE!” She screeched as the knife sailed through the air and landed in Spike’s back. “AGH!” Spike grunted as he staggered. “Ha! I win,” She said. “No… you don’t,” Spike said before he continued limping towards the portal. “No… NO! Stay dead!” She ran after Spike but Spike made it to the portal first. YOU ESCAPED! Spike fell through the portal onto the ground, gasping for air as Varek approached him. “Hmm, seems you have a little something in your back boy, heheh, I’ll get it,” Varek said as he carelessly pulled it out and walked away. Spike was healed but it still hurt alot, and Spike stood up shaking. “Quit your shivering, you made it,” Varek said as he sat back in his chair and put the knife in his drawer. “How many… How many more?” Spike asked. “One, you have one left and only an hour and a half left, better move it,” Varek said. “Ok,” Spike forced himself to stand tall, this was it, he was almost done… “Oh, and you still haven’t talked to that angel,” Varek said. “...She didn’t appear,” Spike said as he turned to leave. “She better,” Varek warned. Author's Note One more level? Sorry about the lower quality, I bet you guys will love the last level Rotten RapacitySpike marched towards the door, not willing to waste any more time, this was it, the last one, if he failed here, his family was screwed. He would not spend the rest of his life in regret, he had to win! Spike entered the portal. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Rotten Rapacity ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike exited the portal and had to shield his eyes, the glare was so great. When his eyes adjusted, he turned to see something that shocked him. Gold… everywhere! Stacked in mountains, molten gold being poured into holes in the floor, statues of gold. “Wow… just a handful of this stuff could give me enough money to retire early…” Spike said in awe. “You're not here to gawk at Aurum’s gold, you're here to get his contract, remember?” Varek said. “Yeah, you're right,” Spike said as he ran on through the stacks of gold. As Spike made his way down the path of what looked like a temple of gold Spike came to a hallway that showed him the torture of this place. Decaying corpses, still moving, chained to the wall, reaching fruitlessly for piles of gold laid just out of their reach. “Please… one gold coin is all I want,” The carcass begged. “Mine…. It will be mine…” Another croaked. “Gold… gold… gold…” Another one muttered. “Truly a sight, but this is what happens to greedy fools, their greed rotted them and now they are chained for eternity forever having their obsession dangled in front of them, just out of reach…. It's quite amusing,” Varek said with a chuckle. “It’s sickening,” Spike said as he ran past and into a giant room full of more gold and statues, as he looked around he saw more skeletal people struggling against their chains to slake their avarice. To no avail. “Where is-” Spike heard laughter and went around a giant statue to see someone sitting on a golden throne, counting gold coins. “Two million eight thousand four hundred and nine gold coins, Two million eight thousand four hundred and ten gold coins, Two million eight thousand four hundred and eleven gold coins, not enough, not nearly enough!” The being growled in a dark raspy voice. He looked like a mostly decayed being, with exposed golden bones, wearing lots of gold and jewelry, and spikes coming out of his head. “Two million eight thousand four hundred and-” He counted and Spike called out to him. “Hello!” Spike said and he paused and looked at him. “An unmarked human?” He sniffed the air “And no scent of death…. Your living, what are you doing in MY temple, disturbing MY counting of MY money!?” He growled standing up. “I’ll be quick,” Spike held no hope he’d give it over but tried anyways “I need the contract between you and Verak, times up,” Spike said. “......HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!” He broke down laughing and leaped out and landed in front of Spike, now that he was there, he saw how tall this guy was, he was twice Spike’s size. “So… Varek lost his nerve and sent a puny mortal to steal from me?... I won’t, If I give him the contract he'll rescind exactly eighty-nine quadrillion from me!” He said. “Th-that’s more than mine!?” Spike said. “Because I asked for more!” He said “More is better! More is EVERYTHING! I’ll forever add to my gold pile” He said. “Aurum’s gold… your Aurum aren’t you?” Spike said. “Yesss, the personification of human greed, I own everything! Everything is mine! Including the contract, and soon, YOU!” Aurum then tried to grab Spike but he dodged and ran and Aurum chased him. “I WON’T LET YOU TAKE MY GOLD!” Aurum screeched as he swung his claws at Spike who ducked and he wound up breaking a wall. Spike ran into another part of the temple where holes in the walls were pouring an endless stream of gold into a pile, he ran around the pouring gold to avoid being knocked down, he ran into another part of the hallway filled with more people being denied their gold as they were chained to a wall. Spike ran past them and thought he had gotten away when Aurum burst out of a gold pile and grabbed Spike by his neck. “Huh?!” Spike exclaimed. “Where there’s gold, I am too,” Aurum said with a grin showing his rotten teeth, he then slammed Spike on the ground and raised his foot before stomping on his head. 2 lives left “Dead already? Wow, you must be a glutton for suffering,” Varek chuckled. Spike got up at the entrance to Aurum's lair and he sighed. He got up and ran through a doorway to his right, collecting shards and after running down a hallway he saw more slaves being forced to push a giant wheel in circles, churning more gold out. “This is horrible,” Spike said as he left the scene. “It’s hell, what do you mortals expect?” Varek asked as Spike made his way past more chained victims. As Spike made it to a room pouring molten gold into slides to pour down another slide. “This guy is obsessed with gold,” Spike said. “He’s the living embodiment of greed,” Varek said. Spike was about to reply when suddenly gold burst all over the room as Aurum came out. “Get your filth away from my money!” Aurum growled before he lunged at Spike and swung his claws at him. Spike dodged and ran out of the room, collecting shards as he fled, looking back he saw Aurum wasn’t chasing him. Spike knew he was going to ambush him again, so he paused and ran down a hallway with less gold piles. As Spike ran past one Aurum’s arm reached out of it and grabbed his leg tripping him up. Spike kicked his hand until he let go and he got up and saw the rotted being leaving the gold pile. “I’ll gouge out your eyes, they leer at my gold!” Aurum sneered. “I just want to save my family!” Spike said running away. “LIAR! You want to take my stuff, but I won’t part with any of it, not even a single gold coin!” Aurum roared as he chased Spike. Spike rounded a corner and fled down another hallway collecting shards while Aurum burst out of a gold pile, missing him, and diving into another one. Spike ran out into the lower floor of the room with the molten gold slides and he made his way around the molten gold pool. Aurum came out of the gold pool and was swimming after him, Spike exclaimed in surprise and fled faster but Aurum was a surprisingly fast swimmer. “Hah!” Aurum jumped out of the gold and flung some molten gold at him. “AAAGH!” Spike cried as it burned but he ran on and Aurum continued chasing him. “Spike collected more shards and fled into another room with another gold pool, as Spike ran he slipped a little and stumbled, and Aurum capitalized on this by swatting him into the molten pool. 1 life left: “On the bright side, you’ll make a great gold statue,” Varek laughed. “Spike…” A voice said and Spike opened his eyes seeing the angel standing above him. “You…” Spike said but she vanished before he could say anything else. Spike sighed and got up. “How much time do I have left?” Spike asked. “Twenty minutes,” Varek said. “Tch!” Spike knew he had to hurry so he ran for it and collected more shards in the left corridors again. But Aurum was already on his trail. “FOUND YOU!” Aurum said as he jumped out of a gold bucket and swung his claws at Spike. Spike dodged and used his speed boost to run faster around a room and collect shards, leaving just as Aurum entered, and he saw Spike stepping on his gold. “Tch! LEAVE MY GOLD ALONE!” Aurum said as he ran after Spike who slowed down. “No!” Spike said before he got an idea and he scooped up some gold coins off the ground as he entered another room and he turned and saw a pit where slaves were working in. Perfect… “Hey!” Spike turned and showed that he had the coins. “What?! Put those down! THEIR MINE!” Aurum screeched. “Then go get them!” Spike said pitching them over the edge and Aurum jumped in after them. “Had a feeling he was too greedy to ignore that,” Spike said as he ran up some stairs as Aurum climbed out. “You little!” Aurum chased him up the stairs and Spike made it up to the top and he collected the shards up there. Aurum chased him around up there but Spike saw a chain dangling over the pit and he saw a chance and jumped onto the chain and slid down it before swinging onto the ground. “CURSE YOU!” Aurum screamed as he jumped off the ledge and landed on the ground, somehow staying intact. Spike ran out of the room and found the last set of shards in a room full of coins, even the floor was made of them. Spike ran around collecting when suddenly Aurum busted out of a pile and slashed Spike in the arm. “AAH!” Spike cried as he fell down and Aurum stomped at him but Spike rolled out of the way and ran away using a combo of vanish and speed boost. “Tch!” Aurum looked down and saw the blood trail and knew where he was going. He had to stop him! Spike ran back towards the throne room, as Varek told him that’s where it is. Spike made his way to the throne room and saw Aurum standing there. “I WON’T LET YOU STEAL FROM ME!” Aurum said. “Five minute’s just letting you know,” Varek said. “No!” Spike said before he knew he had to go for broke, he activated his speed boost and he ran towards Aurum. “RAH!” Aurum lunged at Spike. Time seemed to slow… and Spike slid under him… and Aurum hit the ground behind him as Spike ran over to the throne where the safe was and he opened it. Collecting the contract. “NOOO!” Aurum screamed going into frenzy and chasing Spike who ran down the halls towards the portal. As the chase went on Spike could see the portal ahead… and Aurum burst out of the gold in front of the portal and he punched Spike back. Spike hit the ground and got up with a bloody nose. “Hahahaha! You’ll never get past me!” Aurum said. “Move it!” Spike demanded and he used vanish but Aurum saw where he was based on the moving gold piece on the ground. He punched Spike back again and Spike became visible. “Give back my contract!” Aurum said. “Please… get out of the way, Varek will kill my family!” Spike pleaded. “No! I want my contract!” Aurum sneered. “Thirty seconds remaining,” Varek casually said. “No!” Spike needed to get past Aurum but how?!.... Then he remembered something on his hand… it’s been the thing that’s kept him going… he’s had it ever since he and Rarity got married. …He had no choice… he removed his wedding ring. “Look! I have something you don’t!” Spike said. “...A ring?...” Aurum’s eyes were locked onto it. “It’s yours, go get it!” Spike turned and threw it. “....” Aurum knew he was being played… he needed to stay… To go get the ring… to stay… to get the ring… he needed to stay… To go get the ring… to stay… to get the ring… he needed to stay… To go get the ring… to stay… to get the ring… he needed to stay!… To go get the ring!… to stay!… to get the ring! HE NEEDED TO- “MIIIINE!” Aurum abandoned his post and ran for the ring as Spike used speed boost to run for the portal. “3, 2, 1” Varek counted down. “NOOO!” Spike leaped into the portal. YOU ESCAPED! Spike made it into the office, crashed into the barrier, and fell. Spike got up and slammed the contract on the desk. “I HAVE IT! I made it, now please let me-... Varek?” Spike looked around and didn’t see the demon anywhere. “Where is he?” Spike asked. “....Oh your back,” Varek reentered the office and looked at Spike with an odd expression, Spike looked at him firmly. “I completed our deal Varek, we’re done… please, let me off the hook no-” “No,” Varek simply said. “...What?” Spike said. “I’m afraid boy… you failed,” Varek said before he shot forward and struck Spike in the stomach hard. “UGH!....b-but-” Spike fell to the ground. “Now, to deal with those other pests, I’ll be back Spike, you two, watch him,” Varek ordered his hounds before he walked away. As Spike's vision faded he croaked out “No…” Author's Note Spike failed, is this the end?... Road to hell……………………………………….Wake up…………………………….wake up Spike…..... Spike opened his eyes and saw the angel holding him in her arms, he was in a place of light and he winced as it was bright. “Where…” Spike asked. “Safe, for now, but you need to wake up, they need you more than ever,” She said. “What happened?” Spike asked. “You failed to enter the portal in time, Varek is counting it even though you fell short one single second…” She said. “No…. It was all for nothing…” Spike sobbed openly. “...No… not yet,” She said with determination “There’s still a way, but I need to take some risks to aid you in this regard, I believe in you, Spike,” She said before his vision went white. “How do-” Spike woke up “-You know my name?... Huh?” Spike looked around and saw he was still in Varek’s office and he turned to see the two dogs growling at him, looking hungry, but he remembered they were ordered to stay put and not eat him… most likely, yet… Spike got up looked around and tried to leave the room but one of the dogs snapped at him making him back up. “Tch, I need to find Varek,” Spike said. “No need boy, I am here,” Spike turned and saw Varek walking around a corner hallway towards the room… and he was covered in blood… “No…” Spike said in horror as Verak reentered the room. “...What did you do to my family…” Spike asked. “...” Verak simply looked at him dismissively. “WHAT DID YOU DO?!” Spike grabbed him by his shirt. And promptly got thrown against the wall with a mere shove from Varek. “AGH!” Spike grunted as he slid to the ground. “I would ill advise you to touch me like that boy… nevertheless I will say I have not harmed them… yet, I was merely dealing with some miscreants who tried to break in and take back their contracts,” Varek said. “....I don’t understand… I was only a second late… can’t you look the other way this once? I did so much for you!” Spike said as he got up. “I’m afraid not boy, the deal was made and you failed… again, I was generous enough to give you the chance to win, you surprised me though, you managed to steal back all my contracts that the other demons refused to return, so look at the bright side, you made me smile,” Varek chuckled as he made the blood vanish off of his suit with a snap of the fingers and he gestured for Spike to follow him. Spike stood in defiance and Varek looked back at him. “Shall I leave you with my hounds to feast on instead?” Varek asked. “....fine,” Spike said despondently as he followed Varek. For the first time he left the office and went into the area outside and he saw multiple shadowy beings working on computers. They seemed to be working endlessly and seemed exhausted. Spike ignored them however and he walked on with Varek further into the building. Looking behind Spike saw both hounds following him… likely in case he runs away. “Where are you taking me?” Spike demanded. “You're angry with me aren’t you boy? You wish to kill me now so that I cannot harm your family is that it?” Varek asked out of the blue. “Of course I’m angry with you! I did all that only for you to-” “I know, but as I said before, it is merely business, you see, in hell, your position in the hierarchy is everything, there are even levels to determine ones influence in this realm of torment, I am a greater level four demon, one of notable influence,” Varek said. “And the other demons I faced?” Spike asked. “Two, lesser three at best,” Varek chuckled and Spike felt nervous, this guy must be quite strong then if levels also mean power “So I would refrain from trying to be the hero, it’ll save the cleaning crew some time,” Varek said with a sickening grin. “....I still don’t know where we’re going…” Spike said. “No need to worry, We’re here,” Varek opened the door and gestured Spike in. Knowing he didn’t have a choice Spike walked in and smelled something horrible as Verak walked in as well. “I simply wanted to show you an example of why I am feared among my brethren,” Varek chuckled as he snapped his fingers and the lights in the room flickered on. Spike noticed something out of the corner of his eye and looked…. He wished he hadn’t… he REALLY wished he hadn’t… Corpses… of all his previous enemies were strewn about in a lobby area… From Chipper Rippers to Aurum, they were all… dead. “I think I’ll keep the room like this, it’ll serve as a decent warning for any who attempt to stiff me from now on,” Varek chuckled. Spike wanted to look away but he couldn’t… he looked to each one and saw how they died. There were several dead Chipper Rippers and Phil was laying against a wall, his lower jaw ripped off and a chunk of his head missing. Several cultists were ripped apart and Dalso’s head was split down the middle. Topsy was lying against another wall with the side of his face smashed in and his right arm was ripped out. Darla is just a pile of strings and buttons with her bow on top. There were several gnomes in several areas… their pickaxes stabbed into their heads. Kruger had been split wide open with his own chainsaw. Louie was hidden by his chair but there was blood all over it. Frosty Franky laid on the ground with his head ripped open. Moon was decapitated with her own whip. Zeke laid against a wall covered in scratches and his own nightstick shoved down his throat. Joy was laying on the ground with her own knife stabbed into her neck. And Aurum was simply torn to pieces. Spike stared at the individual gory scenes with horror… and vomited on the floor. “Thanks for that, now I’ll have to clean that up…” Varek sighed. “Y-you….t-they all…” Spike said. “They thought if they teamed up and attacked me as a group they could get their contracts back, how naive,” Varek said. “I-I-” Spike suddenly heard chuckling and he turned to see Moon’s head chuckling. “Hee…heh…heh…” A voice croaked and Spike saw she was grinning at him. “I told you… this would happen…” She chuckled. “Still not dead yet? Hurry and die, you’re souls will be repurposed later, but they won’t take a living demon,” Varek said looking annoyed at her clutching onto life. “You're… a monster… a genuine monster,” Spike said. “A demon,” Varek said checking his watch “So tell me boy, are you as confident now?” Varek asked. “...Take me instead…” Spike pleaded. “Hm?” Varek said. “I got you their contracts, let me make one request, take me instead of my family,” Spike said tearfully. “.....No,” Varek said. “Why?” Spike asked. “Because we made a deal, deals are law here, I gave you an out and you still didn’t make it, I’ve given you a chance too many, especially with an angel getting involved, you never did find her again didn’t you,” Varek said. “I-I” Spike attempted. “Not that it matters, I’ll find and deal with her soon, first, I will end you for wasting my time,” Varek said as he held up his hand and it sharpened into claws. “.....Forgive me… Rarity… Lance…. Scout… I did my best…” Spike said looking down as Varek raised his claw. “Heheheh, take this to heart boy, never… deal with a devil,” Varek said before swinging his claw down to decapitate Spike… And a glowing hand caught his. “Hm?” Varek looked up and saw the angel standing there “There you are, I was waiting for you to show up, I nearly had to kill him to get you to show yourself,” Varek said. “I was preoccupied,” She said before she raised a hand and blasted Varek with a beam of light sending him flying into a wall. His hounds growled and lunged but she blasted them away as well and then grabbed Spike who looked at her in shock and they disappeared. “....Heheheh, so we’re playing this game now… alright,” Varek said as he walked out of the hole in the wall he had created and he dusted off his shoulder “Then let’s play,” Spike was plopped down in an alleyway and he stood up and looked at her. “You… who are you? Why are you helping me?” Spike demanded. “...I-” She didn’t get to say when they heard a noise and she narrowly teleported avoiding a stabbing hand that aimed for her heart, she stood by Spike and looked to see Varek. “Yes, do tell me, why do you intrude in a realm that’s not yours and interfere with MY business?” Varek asked as he looked thoughtful “Could it be that you know him? But how I wonder,” Varek said. “...I caused his suffering in the first place before I ascended to heaven, and I am righting my wrong, even if it breaks the rules,” She said. “Caused my suffering?... What do you-” Spike questioned but she stood in front of him “I won’t let you take his happiness away! He has a family now and a happy life ahead of him,” She declared. “You bore me with your defending of a mortal, all I care about, is completing my transaction,” Varek said. “Transaction?” Spike said. “It’s how my business is really run, I give mortals money, take juuuust long enough that the amount increases to the point that they cannot pay it back, and I claim their soul, it has been that way since ancient times,” Varek said. “...You never had any intention of letting me go free did you?” Spike asked with growing anger. “Heheheheh, look at it this way, you had a good ten years at least,” Varek said with a grin and a shrug. “YOU MONSTER!” Spike yelled and he tried to run at Varek but the angel stopped him. “Stop! You cannot beat him directly,” She said. “...Then It really was all for nothing…” Spike said looking distressed. “Well, if we’re done, I’ll kill you now and claim his soul,” Varek began to move towards them. “Wait! I have an offer,” She said. “Oh?” Varek raised a brow. “Yes, a deal, in writing,” She said. “A deal?” Spike asked. “And why should I make a deal with you? Why shouldn’t I just take what I need now?” Varek asked. “Because I know what kind of demon you are Varek, you love challenges, deals that benefit you, and toying with mortals hopes,” She said. “....I admit you have me pegged, and my curiosity is piqued, go on,” Varek said. “One last game, winner take all, Spike wins, you let him go and never bother him or his family again, you win… you can take me instead,” She said. “What?!” Spike said in shock. “And why pray tell would I have any concern regarding this challenge? I could claim you now,” Varek said. “I can also take my own life and fade to oblivion here in this realm, then you won’t have an angel's soul, think of it Varek, the bragging rights and possible promotion from delivering the soul of an angel to darkness?” She said. “.....You're right,” Varek said with chagrin but also interest… she was right, he could gain a lot from obtaining an angel if he claimed Spike it was just another mortal soul, but her soul… yes… “You don-” Spike said but she smiled at him. “Worry not, this is my atonement,” She said. “Atonement for what?” Spike asked but Varek spoke first. “I accept, your bargain benefits me greatly if I win, and in return I’ll cut Spike loose from my deal, but now it’s your soul in the balance, you are aware right?” Varek asked. “I’m aware,” She said. “Then let us not waste any time,” Varek said snapping his fingers and they teleported into a dark room with a table in the center, Spike and the angel on one side and Verak on the other. “Let’s play…” Varek said with a grin. Author's Note They say the path to hell is paved with good intentions, where will Spike's path lead? Highway to heaven“What are we doing?” Spike asked. “One more game and the winner gets quite the prize,” Varek said grinning at the angel who glared defiantly back. “Alright, how shall we approach this?” Varek asked. “He’s collecting contracts,” She said. “Hm?” Varek said. “What do you mean?” Spike asked. “He will collect all twelve contracts at once and you will try to stop him, he gets five lives and all his powers you granted him before,” The angel stated the rules. “You’ve had time to think of this, I will barter for four,” Varek said. “Very well,” She said. “And all of his powers? Quite the problem,” Varek said. “He gets the powers unless a demon of your power cannot handle it,” She said. “You're quite clever, but your provoking is obvious, nevertheless, I accept,” Varek said. “I will be his guiding voice as well, and help him locate the safes in a fair manner, but I will not directly aid him,” She said with some hesitance. “Heh, alright,” Varek said. “And lastly, if you are caught cheating by any means, he wins by forfeit, so written on this contract,” She said producing the contract and setting it in front of him. “Hmm,” He picked it up and read it carefully before setting it down “A rather well-made contract, I admire your cleverness, very well, I will only use my natural powers, call upon no helpers, and I won’t alter the environment,” Varek said signing the contract and sliding it over to them. “Sign there Spike,” She said. “Why are you risking your own soul for me?” Spike asked. “All will be explained, but first, we must win here,” She said. “What’s your name at least?” Spike asked. “...My name is Meadow,” She said looking away. “Ok,” Spike nodded before he read the contract as well and he then signed it and set the pen down. “Alright, Then let us begin,” Varek grinned with his eyes lighting up with grey lights before he vanished. And then a portal opened behind Spike with Varek’s face on it. “...Good luck Spike,” Meadow said. “...I will, and… thank you for everything,” Spike said before he ran into the portal. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The deal has changed ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike entered what looked like Varek’s office area. But it was now empty, Spike chose not to waste any time and he ran on. As he got out of the computers area he saw what looked like a faint contrail leading out towards a hallway. “What is-” “It’s her guiding you mortal,” Varek said and Spike spun to see him and he was grinning widely with his glowing eyes before he kicked him. Spike coughed up blood as he was sent flying down the hallway, when he landed he looked up and saw Varek approaching but he suddenly zoomed forward taking ten steps in a second. “You have no idea what you're in for boy,” Varek chuckled. “Flee Spike!” Meadow cried. “Tch!” Spike grit through the pain and ran down the hallway, following the contrail and making it down the hallway towards the door they walked towards that had the corpses in it, he opened the door and closed it before tipping a shelf over to block it before he ran down the stairs and into the massacre hall. He saw the contrail leading him to Topsy and he ran over and saw that his broken jaw was mysteriously closed. He ran over and opened it, and his contract fell out, Spike claimed it and it vanished. “Yes!” Spike said before the door and shelf were kicked into the air by a foot and Spike turned to see a figure running super fast towards him. “Yikes!” Spike jumped out of the way in time and Varek demolished a wall with his fist. “Hmmph, you're sharp,” Varek said before he spun and kicked Spike sending him flying and Spike tumbled on the ground, he coughed blood, a broken rib or two most likely. “SPIKE!” Meadow cried. “But still slow,” Varek said before grabbing a pillar and ripping a chunk out of it and throwing it at Spike who rolled out of the way. His broken ribs crunched in the process. “AAAAGH!” Spike cried. “You are quite pain tolerant boy, too bad death is another story,” Varek said before he zipped up to Spike and picked him up by the shirt. “Looks like the first win is mine,” Varek chuckled. “Not… YET!” Spike bit down on his hand hard. “OW!” Varek dropped Spike and Spike struggled to his feet and hobbled away. “Honestly…” Varek sighed as he ran after Spike. Spike rounded a corner and saw the contrail leading him in another direction, down another hall. Sharp pains lanced through Spike but he continued and Spike found the contrail leading him to a bathroom. “Odd,” Spike ran over to it. Before a wall busted down behind him and Varek walked out. “Maybe I’ll force her to fix all the damage with her own hands when I win,” Varek laughed before he zoomed at Spike. “Crap!” Spike said as he tried to run faster but Varek was easily gaining on him. “How do I escape this guy?!” Spike asked. “Use your powers!” Meadow said. “Oh!” Spike said before he used his barrier as Varek was about to reach him and Varek delivered what would have been a fatal punch but the barrier came up and blocked it, though Spike was sent skidding. “Ngh!” Spike grunted. “Tch,” Varek snorted angrily before he ran forward and jumped into the air before slamming his foot onto the barrier cracking it. “I gotta move!” Spike said as he ran to his left as the kick finally broke through the barrier and Spike dove into the restroom and saw a trashcan in a corner, he knocked it over and dug through it. “Nice attempt boy!” Varek tore the door off its handles and walked towards him. “I lose this time, but I have three more,” Spike said before finding the contract in the trash and it vanished. He smiled even as Varek brought his leg down on his head. 3 lives left: “You're doing well Spike, keep going!” Meadow said. Spike woke back up at the office, healed and ready. He got up and ran the other way, seeing a contrail leading him down a hallway and to the left. “Think it's that easy!?” Varek growled as he rounded the corner and held his hand out and some kind of red energy formed in his palm. “DUCK!” Meadow cried and Spike hit the floor as a burst of energy obliterated a wall behind him. “Oh-” Spike didn’t get a chance to curse when Varek ran up to him and raised a foot to stomp on his head. Spike quickly used a barrier and blocked it and then used vanish. “Tch! Nice try boy, I have my methods to countering that,” Varek said as his eyes lit up and he looked around his vision now sensing heat signatures, and he saw Spike running around a corner. “Get back here!” Varek said as he gave chase. Spike made it to what looked like a series of office rooms with glass walls and he saw three contrails in this area. “Here’s hoping,” Spike said as he followed the first one in the one labeled conference room B. He looked through there but couldn’t find it and that’s when Varek smashed through the window glass and marched after Spike. “I will break EVERY bone in your body,” Varek said and Spike ran around the table Varek angrily shoved the table aside and threw a punch at Spike who ducked it. Spike responded by grabbing him and speed boosting into a wall. “Ooof!” Varek grunted and fell over and Spike took this opportunity to look around and he saw the contract had been hidden under the table’s leg before. He dove down and grabbed it and it vanished. He got up but Varek turned Spike around and shoved him down. Spike landed and saw shards of glass and he quickly got an idea and grabbed them, even though it hurt as they cut his hand before Varek picked him up by his throat. “Shall I squeeze slowly? Or just snap it?” Varek grinned. “Hah!” Spike shoved the glass filled hand into Varek’s face, getting glass in his eyes. “AAAGH!” Varek threw Spike aside and clutched his face in pain. Spike flew through a glass wall and onto his back. Spike got up and hurriedly limped over to the next contrail which led him to conference room D. He entered and found multiple papers strewn on the desk, he hurriedly sifted through them looking for the contract. Meanwhile he heard an angry yell and he turned seeing Varek rounding the corner and walking towards him. And he was mad. Spike started tossing papers off the desk and eventually found the paper he was looking for and he made it vanish Spike turned and saw Varek tear the door off and carry it with him, “Catch!” Varek threw the door like a discus and Spike ducked being decapitated by it and it lodged in the wall. As Spike looked up Varek grabbed him by his face and lifted him to his regenerated eyes. “I’m going to make you suffer for that…” Varek said. “Barrier!” Spike made the barrier come out which forced Varek back and then Spike speed boosted away. “YOU PEST!” Varek sped after him. Spike was shocked to see him keeping up and he ran to the other end of the hall, conference room Z. Spike stopped and jumped through the doorway as Varek stopped and turned to him. “I am growing weary of this game,” Varek growled as he moved towards Spike who frantically tipped over a filing cabinet to block him and he ran through the room looking while evading Varek. “I’ll be honest for once, I could kill you anytime, and trust me, you're pushing me to that,” Varek said as his eyes began to turn red and his hands sharpened into claws and he dragged them on the table, leaving deep grooves. “Spike! Hurry!” Meadow said as Spike ran over to a filing cabinet where the contrail seemed to stop and he opened it. He then pulled out all the papers and threw them at Varek who swung his claws cutting all the papers to shreds. But Spike found the one piece of paper among them he didn’t shred and grabbed it making it vanish. Before Varek kicked Spike in the gut sending him through a wall. Spike coughed blood but gritted through the pain like always and he got up. Varek exited the room with a sinister grin. “Hear this!” Varek said as he began taking a deep breath. “Cover your ears!” Meadow cried. Spike did so and just in time as Varek screamed with the force of a jet engine and all the glass in the conference area shattered and Spike was flung off his feet and sent flying onto the glass. “Agh!” Spike grunted as the screech continued and his ears started to bleed. When it stopped Spike struggled to his feet and looked up in time to see Varek grinning at him. “You're not seeing me at my worst boy, I can be much more powerful,” Varek said as he walked forward. “Vanish!” Spike said and he disappeared and he ran away as Varek ran after him. “Haven’t you learned that doesn’t work boy?!” Varek said as he ran forward to stab Spike. “Speed boost!” Spike cried and he ran faster until he was evenly paced with Varek and the two ran through the office, but Spike began to slow eventually. “NO!” Spike said as he saw the contrail leading into another hall and he turned a corner narrowly avoiding Varek’s stabbing hand. “Spike look out!” Meadow cried and Spike looked to see Varek swinging his claw and Spike ducked it avoiding another decapitation before he ran on. “You're elusive, that’s for sure boy, clearly I underestimated you,” Varek grinned as his eyes lit up and he created another dark aura attack and fired. “Spike!” Meadow cried and Spike dodged into another hallway as the blast blew a hole into the wall. Spike looked up and saw the contrail leading into a closet. He ran forward and opened the closet before spotting the contract under a bucket and he grabbed it. And then he was kicked through the door with rib breaking power and Spike tumbled and coughed blood. “You are quickly becoming a nuisance boy!” Varek said before he tried to punch Spike and he used a barrier to block but the force sent him through the floor and Spike grunted as he landed on the ground. Getting up Spike looked around and saw contrails leading away, there must be more on this floor. But the room was so dark as Spike got up Varek was standing there and Spike jumped back. He gave a heavy sigh “It seems I have been left with little choice, you wish to see the wrath of a level four demon? Then you shall witness it first hand!” Varek said before he backed away into the darkness. Immediately Spike heard the squelching of flesh and a transformation was happening. “Wh-what’s happening?” Spike asked before Varek lunged at him. Spike jumped out of the way but paused when he saw it was just an empty body with a hole in its back. “H-huh?” Spike said. “Heheheheheheeeh… you have no idea what you’ve done boy…” Varek’s voice came, it was all warped and deeper, Spike heard clawed feet running amidst the darkness. “Search!” Spike said and he was able to locate his presence… and he had no idea what it was… “I used this form to butcher those fools who owed me money, and it will be the body that ends your pathetic existence!” Varek laughed, and then Spike heard footsteps approaching his position and he spun in time to see a goat headed monster lunging from the shadows and then….. He lost his life in one swing of a claw. 2 lives left: “The demon shows his true colors, things will get tougher Spike, be careful,” Meadow warned. Spike got up on the floor he’d done most of his collecting in, not wanting to go back in the hole he turned and ran and just in time as a large figure broke through the floor. “And where do you think you're going?!” Varek demanded as he got out, showing his true form. He looked like a large humanoid goat headed monster with wings, four arms, cloven feet, a tail with a sharp barb at the end, and a second face on his stomach. “HOLY-” Spike ran with speed boost and the demon ran on all sixs after him. “I’ll tear you limb from limb!” Varek opened his mouth and screeched but Spike used barrier to block it. “Spike! Get to the elevator!” Meadow said and Spike saw the one she was talking about through a shattered window and he opened the elevator and it closed as the demon rounded the corner and lunged but the door closed in time. Spike panted heavily, this guy was truly the most dangerous demon he’s faced yet! Suddenly he heard a loud thud overhead and he looked up seeing a large hand break through the ceiling and swipe around for him. Spike hit the floor and when the door opened he booked it out of there. Spike looked back and saw Varek break through the ceiling and crawl out after him. Spike speed boosted out of there and followed a contrail that split down two ways and he went left, as he ran down the hall the goat monster rounded the corner and crashed into a wall before pursuing him Spike followed the contrail until he found a mess hall, he ran into there and fled down a middle aisle as Varek tore through the lanes and flung tables aside. Spike ran until he spotted a board on the wall with multiple papers on it. One was the contract. Spike nearly slipped as he paused and ran to collect it, after it vanished he noticed the contrail heading into the employee-only area and he ran in after it. Meanwhile Varek just smashed through the doors after him. “YOUR GETTING ON MY NERVES!” Varek screeched as he lunged at Spike and swatted him into a wall. Spike hit the wall and fell down, but he instinctively puts up a barrier and it's a good thing he did because Varek tried to smash him with his fists immediately after. Spike got up and ran before the barrier broke. “YOU ANNOYING PEST!” Varek turned and the second face on his stomach opened its mouth and dark energy built up before firing at Spike. “SPIKE!” Meadow called and Spike saw this and he used speed boost and managed to dodge a massive blast. A blast that totally demolished several walls. “Is he trying to bring the place down?!” Spike exclaimed as he continued following the contrail into the chef's area and he put a mop he found through the handles. “That won’t stop him,” Meadow said. “Anything to buy time,” Spike said as he ran around and searched in cabinets and drawers. Until he saw the contrail lead him to a bunch of papers hung up on and order list and the contract was on it. Spike collected it and then heard a crash as Varek broke into the room and began knocking things aside to reach Spike. “AAAH!” Spike ran away as he jumped onto a counter using his wings and he roared at him. “I thought demons were bad, but you son, you showed me there are humans more grating on the nerves than defiant demons! Forget the angel, I just want you DEAD!” Varek screeched and he hopped down and charged at Spike who jumped out of the was and he wound up plowing through the wall. Spike speed boosted through the hole in the wall and ran out of the room, while Varek was picking himself up. Spike ran down the halls panting heavily, he ultimately hid in a closet and sat to catch his breath. “Don’t relax Spike, you have to continue!” Meadow said. “I’m out of breath… I just need a-” Spike was surprised by a large furry hand smashing through the door, grabbing him and raised him up. “HAHAHAHA! Looks like you only got one left boy!” Varek laughed before he raised his barbed tail and stabbed Spike through the chest. 1 Life left: “This is it Spike, live or die, I believe in you,” Meadow said. Spike woke up back near the elevators. All the times he had only one try left… it’s never been easy… “I got this…” Spike said as he ran down the pathway and hitched a right, he got into a lobby area with a contrail leading him behind a desk. He found the next one easy. Three more… Spike followed the next contrail and used vanish if just to catch Varek off guard in case he’s close. As Spike rounded a corner he saw Varek walking nearby and he paused and sniffed the air. “He’s close…” Varek sneered and he turned to where Spike was. Spike was hiding around the corner and he quickly ran off using speed boost. Spike turned another corner as Varek rounded that corner and sniffed around for him, Spike got out of there. Spike ran until he saw a contrail form and he followed it until he saw it lead to an office, he entered and found it located under the desk. “NOO!” Spike heard Varek roar from elsewhere and he turned to see the monster on the other side of the hall and he turned to see the beast running towards him. “AHH!” Spike ran for it out of the office and back out into the big hallway. With Varek bursting out of the office area moments later. “I WON’T LOSE TO A HUMAN!” Varek screeched as he raised his upper half up, aimed his second mouth, and fired another powerful blast at him. “Spike! Barrier!” Meadow cried and Spike didn’t look back he put up the barrier and the blast collided with him and sent Spike flying off of his feet. Spike tumbled on the ground and looked up to see the goat monster fly into the air and try to slam down on him. “Crap!” Spike rolled out of the way and he struck the ground with enough force to crack it. Spike got up but the monster struck him aside and Spike rolled onto the ground. He struggled to his feet and saw the monster get up and stare down at him. “You are the most elusive and aggravating human I’ve ever met!” Varek snarled. “And you're the worst kind of monster…” Spike said. “Hmmph, I look forward to ripping your flesh from your bones!” Varek said before raising his upper arms and slamming them down, Spike dodged to the left as the slam shattered the ground and Spike ran down another hallway where the contrail was leading him. Spike could hear the monster behind him but he continued running, refusing to die, not after everything! Spike ran out into an open area and saw that it was raining, he looked around and saw the contrail leading him to an open window. He ran forward and dove through the window as Varek entered and he growled before running back in. Meanwhile Spike found himself in another office and saw the contract in a trash bin. He grabbed it and it vanished. “One more!” Spike said getting up and running out of the room just in time to see Varek trying to cut him off down a hallway. “I WON’T LET YOU WIN! YOU HEAR ME!” Varek roared and Spike ran with all his might to escape the rampaging monster. “You're almost there Spike!” Meadow said. “Alright!” Spike rounded the corner and went down the only hall he hasn’t. And he ran out into a big open area near the lobby and saw the very thing he was hoping. The last contract, in what looks like a case of trophies. Spike used a speed boost to run for it. But a certain demon wasn’t prepared to lose. “NOOOOOOOOOO!” Varek roared before spreading his wings and taking to the air and flying over Spike, landing in front of him and ramming his head forward. And impaling Spike through the abdomen with a horn. “GUH!” Spike gagged. “SPIKE!” Meadow cried. “I… win…” Varek panted before laughing and hoisting Spike into the air and with a toss of his head he flung the prone human to the ground. “Agh!...” Spike groaned and coughed blood. “What? How are you still alive?! How hard is it to kill a simple human?!” Varek cursed before standing back and leaning up “Out of respect for the first human to put me though so much effort, I will grant you the death you’ve been fighting against,” Varek said with a laugh. “NO!” Meadow cried appearing. “Ah ah, no interference, remember?” Varek taunted and Meadow was forced to stay back. “Spike! Get up!” She begged. “Ugh…” Spike coughed up lots of blood but he managed to get up. “You can still stand, even after being stabbed? I’ve met tenacious humans before, but you,” Varek laughed before charging up the blast from his stomach mouth. “SPIKE!” Meadow cried. “I…” Spike staggered towards Varek. “SAY GOODBYE!” Varek laughed before he fired. “...” Spike remembered Rarity, Scout, and Lance as the blast approached him. “I…am coming home…” Spike said……..”BARRIER!” Spike cried and suddenly the barrier came up and blocked the attack. “WHAT THE?!” Varek said in surprise. “You think you can just play with our lives and hopes don’t you Verak… you're about to see, a father's rage!” Spike yelled and he ran forward. “IMPOSSIBLE!” Varek screeched and he used his sonic scream to try and debilitate Spike further but Spike powered through and used speed boost. “Why doesn’t he die?! HOW?!” Varek exclaimed in his head before he lunged “DROP DEAD HUMAN!” Varek roared while Spike saw what he was hoping to happen, happen… The screech had broken open the trophy cabinet and Spike ran forward despite feeling like he was dying. “DIE!” Varek slammed down where Spike was creating a dust cloud. "Spike!" Meadow exclaimed. ...As Varek got up he didn’t see him. “What the?! Where did he-” “Hey Verak!” Spike called and Varek turned to see him standing by the trophy case with the contract in hand. “What?! NO!” Varek lunged at Spike but he was too late… The contract vanished and a light consumed the place. Spike opened his eyes and saw he was back in the dark room with the table, and across from him was Varek and beside him was Meadow. “No….i-impossible! I can’t lose! NOT TO A MERE HUMAN!” Varek yelled angrily tossing the table aside and running at Spike “I REFUSE IT!” Varek shrieked and he tried to grab Spike but suddenly a contract flew up and repelled him. “WHAT?!” Varek staggered back. “The contract you signed forbids attacking him or me, in the event we win, speaking of which, you lose Varek,” Meadow said with a smile. “I-it can’t be… I’m a level-four demon! I can’t lose to-” “Quit your whining,” Spike said and Varek looked down at him “Isn’t that what you told me every time I complained about your treatment of me?” Spike simply said. “You arrogant little wretch!” Varek tried to hit him with his four fists but they just glanced off the contract. “Accept it Varek, you don’t get either of us, now if you’ll excuse us, he has a family to return to,” Meadow said. “RRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH!” Varek roared angrily and slammed his fist on the ground leaving big cracks before he shrank down into his more human form and he stood straightening his tie. “.....Very well… but know this Spike, if you EVER end up in hell again, be ready, because then your mine, and I assure you, your suffering will be eternal,” Varek growled before turning and leaving “Now if you’ll excuse me, I have more deals to make and a now thoroughly damaged reputation to attend to, I hope we meet again Spike… I really do,” Varek growled at Spike one last time before opening a door in the darkness and leaving, closing the door behind him. “....” Spike turned to Meadow and extended his hand and she took it. “I am proud of you Spike, defeating a level four demon is no easy task,” Meadow said. “Guess I got lucky, thanks for everything Meadow, you saved me and my family,” Spike said. “...Listen Spike, I wanted to say that…I’m sorry,” She said. “Sorry for what? I should be thanking you,” Spike said. “But… it’s my fault you ended up in this situation to begin with…” Meadow said. “What?” Spike asked for more clarification. “...The truth is Spike, I do know you… because…I’m your-” She looked conflicted and Spike just held up a hand, understanding. “I understand,” Spike said. “I’m so sorry, I never should have left you in that orphanage… I thought you’d be happier there, than with a penniless single mother,” She said. “...” Spike looked down. “You went through so much suffering, and fell into Varek’s trap because of me… I’m sorry…” Meadow said sniffling a little. “....I indeed went through alot… but then… I wouldn’t have met Rarity, I wouldn’t have helped give birth to Lance and Scout, and if it weren’t for you… I wouldn’t have been able to save them, so… thank you, Mom,” Spike said as he hugged her and she hugged back. “Thank you for understanding… it’s time to head home now, but please, give Scout and Lance a good life, what I could never have given you,” Meadow said. “I will,” Spike said and she flapped her wings and carried Spike into the light above. Spike woke up on the ground in the alleyway he and Verak were in before Spike followed him into hell. Looking around he saw the briefcase with the money he had taken a loan on and it looked untouched… Spike looked around and saw people going about their business and looking up he saw blue skies and he took a deep breath. He was home… “Thank you,” Spike repeated before he got up and walked away with the money he was going to give back to his friend, seeing as it wasn't needed now. Spike arrived home and saw it was untouched, it looked like it was truly over. He was victorious over hell he still has plenty of emotional scars that will take awhile to heal, but he was ready to continue his life knowing that it was fixed. Spike opened the door and called out “Rarity? I’m home!” “Spike? SPIKE!” Rarity’s voice cried and she ran over to him with Scout in her arm and she hugged him with her other arm “I was so worried! You vanished for more than two whole days and nobody could find you-” Spike hushed her with a kiss. “It’s alright now, let’s go inside,” Spike said and he and Rarity went inside and Lance ran up to him. “Daddy!” Lance cried running over to him and hugging his leg. “Hey there little man,” Spike said with a chuckle. “Where were you daddy?” Lance asked. “Yes, where were you?” Rarity asked. “....Let’s just say, I’ve been through hell,” Spike joked. “Oh you,” Rarity rolled her eyes. “Well, enough of that, let’s go out to eat, my treat,” Spike said wanting nothing more than to head out with his family after his ordeal. “Sounds lovely dear, I have to… make a few calls first,” Rarity said before walking away with Scout. “Boy does daddy have a story for you guys,” Spike said as he picked up Lance and walked after Rarity with him. There are some who would say that going to work, arguing with your family, even getting hit by a car is hell. But I learned there is a real hell, and it carries more suffering than the world is ready for, but if hell exists, so does heaven. What I’ve been through throughout my life was horrible, but everything worked out in the end and now, I’ve found my heaven, in the end, life is hard, but it's what you make of it that matters. And I pray, when I meet my mother in heaven, we can catch up a little more. -Spike Author's Note That ending was a masterpiece, in my books at least. I hope you all enjoyed this story, made by a big fan of the base game Dark Deception, see you all next time.
An evil soul never plays fairlyAuthor's Note I will warn you again if all the stuff mentioned in the title upsets you, I'd suggest skipping to the middle of the story. Either way, I hope you enjoy my darker more serious DD story, hopefully, Dark Deception will update by the end of this. And this is uncharted territory for me so wish me luck! An evil soul never plays fairly "The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall." - Thomas Edison Life… is suffering… That is all Spike knows… he has gone through a lot in his life. But let’s recap. He grew up in an orphanage, never knowing who his family was, where he was singled out and hurt multiple times. He ran away at twelve. He can’t hold down a job due to lack of funds to buy a car or gas and the fact that his background makes it harder for him to get one in the first place. He’s been in and out of places to stay, having to sleep on the sidewalk or alleys sometimes. He remembers sleeping in a dumpster once. And who’d want to be with someone with nothing to their name?... so loves an issue as well… And now here he is… sitting in a cardboard box, in an alleyway, taking shelter from the rain…. It isn’t comfy but it’s better than sitting in the rain all night. He has his trusty knife, the very thing that’s kept him alive… and it’ll be the thing that finally ends his misery. Now he just has to do it… “....There’s nothing left for me here… so why can’t I do it?!” Spike asked himself as he held the knife at his wrist he cursed himself for what he cannot do. He cursed his life… if only he had the money, he could turn everything around. But what? Is a pile of cash going to fall out of the sky and save him from himself?... Spike held the knife in his hand and tried so hard to make a cut, but he relented and sat back in his soggy box. “Why was I even born!?” Spike asked before he sobbed, he wondered what he’ll do, maybe he’ll finish tomorrow… for now… NO, he’s suffered enough, the world won’t help him, so why bother? “Ok… here we go…” Spike said as he raised the knife… annnd- STEP STEP STEP SPLASH STEP STEP STEP… “Huh?...” Spike noticed some footsteps echoing about the alleyway… great… a passerby… well if it isn’t someone who will try to mug a broke man again they’ll probably walk past without dropping a penny for him. He’d still rather they not witness a suicide, so he’ll wait… The figure's footsteps got closer and closer and… stopped. “Hmm?” Spike looked to see a pair of feet standing outside his box the person didn’t move for a whole minute. “Take a picture and move on, it’ll last longer,” Spike bitterly said. “Hmm… how unfortunate, a person at the end of their rope, I can help you sir,” The voice of an elderly man said. “I don’t need pity or your charity, I plan on ending it tonight, so you’ll be wasting your money,” Spike said. “I can help you get your life back on track sir, please just come out,” The voice said. “I said go away,” the young man said. “I am afraid I cannot in good conscience leave until I have helped you,” He said. “I have a knife, is that incentive enough to leave?” Spike said poking his head out of the box. “Why are you so resistant to receiving my help?” He asked, now that Spike got a good look at him he saw the man had grey skin and a white mustache, he looked fancy, and he was carrying a suitcase. “Will you leave if I come out and hear your sales pitch?” Spike asked. “I am not selling anything, come out,” He said. “Fine…” Spike sighed and he stepped out into the pouring rain, showing his ratty clothes and dirt. “My my, a poor soul indeed,” He said. “DId you call me out of my box to insult me?” Spike asked. “Nono, just an observation, but more importantly, I have an offer for you-” He said and as he talked Spike rolled his eyes, looks like was trying to sell something… Until he said…. “And to this end, I will give you all the money in this briefcase,” He said. “...Wha?” Spike said sounding surprised. “Yes, you see, I run a money lending job, helping the weary recover from their troubles, and all it takes is you shaking my hand,” He said extending his hand. “....What?” Spike said. “Shake my hand,” He repeated. “I heard that but… you're just giving me free money?... how much is in that suitcase?...” Spike said expecting only a hundred or less as some kind of sick- “See for yourself,” He opened the suitcase…. And Spike was in shock… Money, so much, there had to be a lottery’s worth in there! “....What’s the catch?... There has to be one,” Spike said. “No catch… except…” He trailed off “I will return in ten or so years expecting it back, with interest,” He said. “...Interest?” Spike asked warily. “Yes, part of my job is receiving back the money I loan you, not the exact same bills but I do expect full restitution and then some in ten years, given that this is enough money to help you get back on track, I’d say you should be able to meet the price,” He said with a grin. “What’s the final price?” Spike asked. “That is to be revealed on the day of collection, this offer only comes once, if you say no and I leave, you’ll never see it again,” He said. “...Who are you?” Spike asked. “Just call me V, now do we have a deal?” V said. “I-I…I…” Spike was in shock, here he was about to end his life and some stranger came out of nowhere and is handing him the cash he needed… This has to be a dream… “Yeees? No?” He asked. “I don’t know…” Spike was stuttering at this, it was almost too suspicious. “You are free to turn down my offer, just as I am to leave and find another unfortunate, good day,” V said closing the case and walking away. “...Wait… WAIT!” Spike ran after him and the man turned around with a smile. “Oh? Changed our mind have we?” V asked. “I need that money… it’ll save me, but… why? Why hand me all this just out of the blue?” Spike asked. “It’s just business, now, do we have a deal or do I keep walking?” V asked extending his hand. “...” Spike could think of a million ways this is a trap… but… there was something inside, something he’d long lost… a glimmer of hope, that he could turn his life around with this money… “I-I…. I accept,” Spike said shaking his hand. “Good choice young chap, here you go,” V said handing him the money case “Pleasure doing business with you, see you in ten years, give or take,” V said tilting his hat before he walked off and vanished around the corner. Spike stood there, processing this all, he waited to wake up in his soaked cardboard box, penniless and without hope…. But he didn’t… he looked down into the case and saw money in at least the millions. It really happened… it really did… he got his wish for a new start, and now that he had this money he had to get moving before a mugger or a criminal came for it. “Thank you…” Spike sobbed gratefully and he ran off with it, as he left the alleyway a foot stepped down in a puddle in the shadows nearby. “Heheh… you're welcome…” V said as he pulled up a list and crossed off a name. Ten years later Life used to be utter turmoil for him, but now, things are all better. Spike drove home in his new car, things had finally looked up for him. Once more let’s recap After getting the money he ran around for awhile and decided on a hot meal for the first time in so long. Then, he got to work. He managed to recover his life, bought a house, got a car, and managed to fix all his legal needs, and he still had plenty left over! He got a job at an office firm, made his money woes vanish, recovered his health, and best yet. At the office, he met the woman of his dreams, her name was Rarity. They were married with kids in five years. Two sons, Lance and a newborn named Blue Scout, but they all just called him Scout for short. Spike had never been happier, and his life was finally his. But it’s always when we’re on top of the world… that we fall off… Spike exited his car and carried several presents, ready for Scout's first birthday. “Daddy!” Lance ran over to him and hugged him. “Hey there little guy!” Spike hugged him while trying to not drop the presents. “Daddy daddy! I lost a tooth today!” He said. “Oh, you weren’t jumping off of the water heater again were you?” Spike said as he carried the stuff inside. “Noooo,” Lance said obviously lying. “Lance I told you not to, you could get hurt,” Spike said. “Hi honey,” Rarity said as she walked in, carrying Scout. “Hey there sweetie, and hey there little man,” Spike kissed them both. “How are the presents coming along?” Rarity asked rocking Scout. “Wonderful sweetie, I imagine this will be the best birthday ever, isn’t that right little man,” Spike tickled the belly of the baby and he giggled. “I wanna help make the cake!” Lance exclaimed. “Ok sweetie, let’s get on that,” Rarity said as she headed back into the living room to set the baby down for his nap. “And meanwhile I’ll go fetch us some coffees, we’ll need them for this coming party prep,” Spike said. “Don’t be long!” Rarity said as he made his way to the door and went out into the neighborhood. Spike made this way down into the nearby shop areas and picked up a couple of coffees, as he made his way out of the shop he bumped into someone. “Oh, sorry sir, I-” Spike froze when he saw who it was… “Oh! Fancy meeting you here young man, I do apologize for being late, but it’s ten years on the dot,” V said with a smile. “Y-you,” Spike said taking a step back. “What? Did you forget our deal?” V asked. “N-no, I just didn’t think we’d meet again today… um, hey, can we do this tomorrow? It’s my son's birthday today and-” “I’m afraid not, the time is up, where is my money?” V asked. “L-look, you gave me alot of money, it’s going to take a little longer to-” “That wasn’t the deal, I said I would return in ten years for the money you owe me, so hand it over,” V said. “O-ok! Let me just check my bank account,” Spike said as he pulled out his phone and went to his account. He had a couple thousand thanks to his job and some of the money from the loan V gave him. “Ok, how much is it?” Spike asked just wanting this interaction to be over with. “Let’s see,” V said pulling out a clipboard out of nowhere and checking some things. “Huh?” Spike said noticing this. “Hmmm…. It says here you owe me… one quadrillion dollars,” V said. “.......What?” Spike said stepping back in shock at the number he just heard. “One quadrillion dollars,” V repeated. “N-no, I-I can’t possibly repay that much! How did it get that high?!” Spike said in horror. “Your amount raised every now and then since the agreement, I did say there would be interest, but I am willing to let there be a couple more days to get me the money,” V said with a chuckle. “You- you snake you tricked me!” Spike said. “Technically I said no lies, sure I omitted a little but I said everything that was said truthfully,” V said. “I don’t have that money!” Spike said. “Figure it out, you have two days,” V said as he walked away and vanished into the crowd. “No…” Spike said looking like his world was crashing down. As the party was going on Spike continued looking like he was wracking his brain trying to figure out how he can amass such money in two days. “Honey? Is everything alright?” Rarity asked him. “Y-yeah, I um… need some time,” Spike said as he left for his room. “What is going on with him?” Rarity asked herself. “I have to find another way, and I can’t let Rarity be burdened with this,” Spike said as he sat down on the bed. As he continued thinking he decided the only way forward was taking out another loan from someone else. How else was he going to get this loan shark off his back… for now, the birthday… Two days later Spike made his way down to the coffee shop from the other day and he looked around, he was carrying a briefcase full of the loan money he got from a friend at work, he’ll have to work himself to the bone for the rest of his life to pay it all off, but at least his family’ll be safe. It’s not all of it, but it’s close enough that he hopes he can weasel out of the last hundred thousand or two. “V? I’m here!” Spike called and immediately his eyes landed on the businessman standing near an alleyway, gesturing him to follow him. Spike gulped, knowing this could be bad news but he had no choice, he followed him in and he paused in the middle of the alley… but V wasn’t there? “Huh?” Spike said before it was revealed he was behind him. “Hello again,” V said and Spike spun. “H-how did-” “Never mind that, where’s my money?” V asked. “R-right here,” Spike said handing it over and partially hoping he doesn’t count it. “Alright,” V opened it up and began doing just that. Spike shifted uncomfortably as he counted and when he reached the end he looked up at Spike with a frown. “You're short,” V said. “L-look that was all I could get! If I have more time I can give you more-” ‘Ten years, that was the deal, and you’ve failed to keep your end,” V said with a growl chucking the money at his feet. “W-what are you going to do?” Spike asked nervously as he reached into his jacket, expecting him to shoot him. Instead, he pulled out a pen and paper and read off a part of it. “Spike, failed to keep his promise despite my generous donation,” V drew another line on his name forming an X. “Please! I need more time!” Spike said. “You should have saved up,” V said. “I didn’t know it would be that expensive!” Spike cried. “That is the lesson here, always, expect the worst,” V said before snapping his finger and the list burnt before suddenly the alleyways were blanketed in darkness. “H-Huh?! What’s going on?!” Spike asked. “Your penalty, you made a deal with a demon and now, hell awaits,” V said. “Wh-what? A demon?” Spike asked sounding scared. “That’s right, now that we’re not playing nice anymore I may as well tell you my whole name, Verak, at your service,” Verak said with a mock bow. “N-no way, demons are real?!” Spike backed away fearfully. “Afraid so boy, now how do you want to die?” Verak asked. “N-no please! I have a family now!” Spike begged. “Why should I care?” Verak asked with a sickening smile. “I’ll do anything! Just let me go!” Spike begged. Suddenly he paused. “Huh?” Spike said. “Anything, you say?” Verak asked. “Yes,” Spike said. “Hmmm maybe… it could take some of the workload off of me, mortal, I am willing to grant you a reprieve,” Verak said. “Y-you are?” Spike asked. “On the grounds that you perform, a favor for me,” V said. “Anything,” Spike said. “Heheh, follow me,” Verak approached a wall and drew a symbol on it, opening a portal and when Spike hesitated he waved him in. “Ok ok,” Spike said as he entered. Suddenly the alleyway returned to normal and the symbol vanished. Spike stumbled into what looked like a dusty but big office and looked around. He saw a doghouse in the corner and a desk where Verak was sitting in. “Welcome to my office,” Verak said. “...Where the hell am I?” Spike asked. “As you just said, hell, a very specific part of it too, now, here’s the deal mortal,” Verak pointed to a chair and Spike sat down. “I have quite the workload lately and haven’t had a chance to pursue more of my human deals or relax, therefore I am sending you on some errands for me,” Verak said. “Like?” Spike asked. “Retrieving my contracts from the demons who owe me as you do,” Verak said. “Demons?” Spike repeated. “Yes, I deal not only with humans but demons as well, but where as humans will rely on dirty tactics to avoid having to pay up when the time arrives, demons seem to think they're above it and will refuse outright to pay me back, I was going to go and tear them limb from limb but I find this prospect more entertaining, I want you to go fetch the contracts I made with these other demons, do so, and I’ll call your debt settled,” Verak said. “Contracts? But I didn’t get a contract,” Spike said. “Yes, but that is because you mortals aren’t troublesome enough to require it, these particular demons are, if it isn’t written on paper it’s not valid, that’s the law here,” Verak said. “Alright… how do I find these-” “Let me worry about that, for now just get me those contracts, if you fail I’ll raise the stakes on your punishment for wasting my time,” Verak said. “How?” Spike asked nervously. “You’ll give me your children,” Verak said. “What?...” Spike said looking horrified. “My hounds are in need of new chew toys anyways,” Verak gestured to the doghouse holding a pair of bloodthirsty-looking dogs who were growling hungrily. “N-no! You can’t that’s horrible!” Spike exclaimed. “Then don’t fail me,” Verak said “I’m setting my watch for two days, clocks ticking,” Verak said. “You sadistic-” Spike said wanting to hit him but Verak grinned. “If you want to fight me, you’ll find that’s a lose-only situation, think carefully,” Verak said. Spike sighed and stood up “Fine… where do I start?” Spike asked.
Be silent... he is listening...“I visited a zoo or two awhile back, why?” Spike asked. “Get ready to visit a zoo with a… unique assortment,” Varek said with a smile as he wrote something down and handed it to Spike “Don’t read that, take it to the one known as Kruger, he’ll know what to do with it,” Varek said. “Ooook?” Spike still didn’t fully or really at all trust Varek but he had no choice. “I will assure you things are getting more complicated as time goes on, speaking of which time is running out, I’d say you only have a day and an hour left,” Varek said taking a puff of his cigar. “Alright,” Spike said as he turned and left the office, he couldn’t help but take note of the picture on the portal. It looked like a walrus… ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Be silent… he is listening… ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike made his way out of the portal and saw what looked like a trashy place. It looked like a mix between a junkyard and a zoo, with cages and piles of garbage strewn about the place. “Ugh, whoever owns this place doesn’t take very good care of it,” Spike said as he walked in. “Turn back…” A weak voice croaked and Spike jumped and turned to one of the cages and saw what looked like a fake gorilla-headed person cowering in a cage. “Oh my gosh, are you ok?” Spike ran over and he saw the thin-looking man in a cage. “Forget me… this is my punishment, but you need to hide,” He whispered. “Why?” Spike asked a little too loudly. “Not so loud! He’s got really good ears!” The prisoner whispered harshly. “Who?” Spike asked quieter. “Kru-” Suddenly a yell overcame the area and they glanced to see a huge figure running for them. “Too late!” The man crawled to cover. Spike stood there frightened as the huge man barreled towards him, but when he thought he was going to attack he changed direction and ran up to the cage and bellowed something that sounded like… “BAD GORILLA! BAD! YOU ARE ONLY ALLOWED TO TALK LIKE A MONKEY!” The man bellowed while throwing a soda can at him. “Eeep! Oook ook!” The man cowered under the gaze of the man. “Not good enough! No dinner tonight!” He barked at him before standing up and turning to Spike, Spike actually had to look up at this guy he was so tall. “Heehee! A new guest! Sorry you had to see that, this dumb monkey won’t do it again, RIGHT?!” He shot a glare at him and the man nodded numbly. “Good! My name is Kruger by the way, Kruger the walrus,” The man stepped into the light and Spike took note that he looked like a man wearing a burlap outfit modeled after a bipeadal walrus wearing overalls. His tusks looked real though… “U-uh hi?... Why is that man in a cage?” Spike asked. “What man? I only see my idiot pet gorilla,” Kruger said with a head tilt. “Huh?” Spike said. “This guy isn’t super bright, and he’s super obsessive about animals,” Varek said. “Ah…” Spike said. “Well? Come on! Let’s get you fixed up newcomer!” Kruger said as he turned and walked off and Spike hesitantly followed. “Um… actually I’m just here to-” Spike said but Kruger spoke first. “Take my contract, I know,” Kruger said. “How do you-” Spike asked but Kruger cut him off again. “My buddies Topsy and Darla warned me you’d come, but no need to worry, I’m handing it over,” Kruger said as he went over to a cage with two people with lion masks on. Looking closer Spike could see the full-head masks were sown on… he wanted to puke at this place, a place where humans are debased and treated worse than animals. But it wouldn’t be hell if people were happy, would it?... Spike made his way to the cage with the lions along with Kruger. “Hello my little lions, I’m coming for the safe,” Kruger said as he opened the cage and the two people dressed as lions cowered in the back of their cages as he walked in and picked the safe up. “What do you say?...” Kruger asked. “R-rawr…” One said. “Meow…” The other said. “Good!” Kruger left the cage and closed it behind him. “Alrighty! Here ya go!” Kruger said handing Spike a piece of paper after opening the safe. “Thanks,” Spike said as he took the contract thankful at least one demon was being reasonable. “Give him the paper,” Varek said. “Huh?” Spike asked. “The one I gave you,” Varek reminded him. “Oh, ok,” Spike said getting the paper out of his pocket and handing it to Kruger. “Oh! A message for me? Okay!” Kruger said as he read it… and his expression suddenly looked happy. “Is everything okay?” Spike asked. “Yeah, yeah, just go,” Kruger said as he waved Spike off. “Ooook?” Spike said as he turned to leave… and a sudden jolt of electricity shocked him and he cried out and fell to the ground. As he laid there Kruger stood over him chuckling. “Did you really think I was going to give it to you?” Kruger said as he tossed his cattle prod aside, picked the paper up and put it into the safe again. “No…” Spike grunted as he was hoping this guy would be the one to just give it to him but guess not. Kruger walked around him and showed him Varek's letter. ‘You can have him,’ “What?...” Spike said in shock. “I was going to take you anyways, but I guess he wanted you to know how expendable you are to him, heheheh, don’t worry, you're in good hands now…” Kruger chuckled as he picked up Spike and carried him away. “.....VAREK!” Spike cried as he was dragged off. “Heheheheh, thought it might make things more interesting if I gave him an incentive,” Varek said with a laugh. Spike woke up on a surgical table and he looked around before noticing he was tied up, he struggled but he couldn’t escape. “Now that you're in the thick of it-” Varek said before Spike shouted. “Shut up! You sold me out!” Spike said. “I simply issued a challenge to have you try harder, you’ve been getting a little more cocky as of late,” Varek chuckled. “You sadistic-” “Who are you talking to?” A voice said and Spike turned to see a guy wearing a cheetah mask asked quietly. “A jerk who I owe a debt to…” Spike sighed. “I-” Suddenly the door was kicked open and Kruger walked in and glowed at the cheetah guy. “What did I say about TALKING?!” Kruger growled. “S-sorry!” The guy whimpered. “You're still talking…” Kruger growled again. “M-meow…” He cowered under Kruger's wrathful gaze. “You’ll get a beating later, for now, I have a new animal friend to make,” Kruger said before turning to Spike with none of the menace from before “Alrighty! Now what to make you… hmm,” Kruger hummed in thought. “I am NOT your animal!” Spike cried. “Yes you are!” Kruger slammed his fist down on the table denting it. “Tch!” Spike tried to struggle some more. “Hmm… a goat?.... No, a panda?.... No… a doggy?” Kruger walked around before getting an epiphany “Topsy said you were a slippery one… know what else is slippery?... Ferrets! I love ferrets!” Kruger said eagerly and he went over to a closet and opened it before digging through several animal masks and pulling out one of a ferret. “I-I don’t even know what sound ferrets make!” Spike cried. “Just go squeak from now one little ferret! I’m going to make you my newest little pet!” Kruger said setting the ferret's head on a struggling Spike and standing back. “Hmm.. now how to do this…? Staples? Nails?... Eh, I’ll just sow it in,” Kruger approached a table and picked up a needle and a string. “No! Don’t!” Spike cried. “Don’t worry little ferret! I’ll be quick,” Kruger said as he leaned in with the needle and… Suddenly the cage door flew open and Spike saw the cheetah guy book it through the door. “HUH?! HEY! Get back here cheetah! I haven’t neutered you yet!” Kruger yelled chasing after him. “Huh? What just-” “I just bought you five minutes,” Varek said. “Why-” “Because I want to see if you can escape Kruger,” Varek said. “Ok…” Spike said before he thrashed around trying to get free and the table fell over, on the ground Spike saw a surgical saw and he shook his head to get the mask off before he reached his head forward and grabbed the saw with his teeth and used it to cut himself free. Spike managed to get free and he hurried out the door. Only to run into a figure as he turned a corner and he saw it was Kruger carrying an unconscious prisoner. “Hey! What are you doing out of bed? Bad ferret!” Kruger said dropping the cheetah-masked guy and reaching down for Spike. “Leave me alone!” Spike got up in time and skidded back avoiding the grab. “Ngh! Get back here Ferret! You're not complete!” Kruger lunged at Spike and he dodged and Kruger hit the ground with a loud thud. “Nope!” Spike ran down the hallways as Kruger got up. “You don’t wanna be my animal friend?... THEN YOU CAN DIE!” Kruger yelled after Spike who shut a door behind him and ran on. He spotted shards and he ran for them. Spike collected shards as he ran through the halls of the building he was in. As Spike made his way down an adjacent hallway the door that it led to busted down and he paused as he saw Kruger wielding a large chainsaw. “Heheheh. There’s still a chance… be my pet, or die,” Kruger said. “Not a chance, you psychopath,” Spike said. “Then die!” Kruger sprinted forward and swung his chainsaw at Spike who jumped out of the way and ran for it before he lost a leg. “GET BACK HERE!” Kruger chased Spike with his chainsaw. “Aaaah!” Spike cried as he ran down some stairs and collected his shards, as he ran down another hallway he was surprised by Kruger just going through the wall. “WHAT THE?!” Spike cried as Kruger pinned him. “Heheheheheh, bad ferret, dead ferret!” Kruger said before running Spike through with the chainsaw. 3 lives left “Looks like you not as slippery as a real ferret,” Spike got up back at the office he escaped from. “Ugh…” Spike said as he got up, before he could question anything he heard a cry of dismay from afar, meaning Kruger might be wondering where he vanished to. “Gotta move,” Spike said as he ran and collected shards from the other side of the building. As Spike went down some stairs he heard Kruger calling out for him. “FERRET! WHERE ARE YOU LITTLE FERRET?!” Kruger yelled as he started bashing walls down. “Not good,” Spike said as he ran on down a corner hallway and he saw a bridge nearby, he decided to take it and cross to the otherside. As he ran he looked and saw more cages with more people contained inside them. As Spike was thinking about how wrong this is he heard a shout and he looked up to see Kruger having jumped out of a window and landing in front of him. “There you are ferret!” Kruger said before he ran after Spike and swung his chainsaw. Spike dodged and fell back against the railing, Kruger turned and raised the chainsaw and swung it down, Spike dodged an attack that would have cleaved him in half and ran around Kruger who ran after him. “RAAAAAH!” Kruger yelled as he chased after Spike, Spike tried to slow him down using a door but Kruger bashed it down and chased him into a hallway leading to a lobby area. Spike collected the shards here but found that he was cornered. Spike turned and saw Kruger closing in. “Vanish!” Spike said and he disappeared and avoided the swing. “Huh? Where did the ferret go?” Kruger asked as he looked around… and then he heard footsteps to his right… “There you are!” Kruger turned and grabbed Spike before raising him into the air and slamming him down, hard. 2 lives left “Looks like you're getting thrown to the vultures, don’t worry, they’re hungry enough to want it,” Varek taunted. Spike wasted no time shaking the dizziness from his head and getting moving. “Where’s the exit?” Spike demanded. “Take the hallway to your left,” Varek said and Spike made a beeline for where Varek directed him. Eventually, he found himself outside the building and he looked around, finding himself in the twisted zoo with more shards. He ran towards the shards and began collecting them as quickly as he could, as he collected them he ran past several cages that had varying people with varying masks in them, seeing someone resisting their oppressor made them speak. “Yeah! Show Kruger!” a guy with a penguin mask cheered. “Go!” A woman wearing a frog mask said. Spike nodded at them and ran on, knowing there was nothing he could do for them. Unfortunately, not all of them were on Spike's side. “Hey! Kruger! He’s over here!” A man wearing a bunny mask called. “Wha?” Spike said as Kruger rounded a corner having heard that. “Sorry, but kissing up gets you better treatment,” The man shrugged. “Thanks a lot!” Spike said as he ran away from Kruger who made a break for Spike. Spike ran around the park as the crazed walrus man chased him and he was gaining on him... “You won’t leave!” Kruger said as he jumped at Spike and Spike cried out as he felt a slash across his back and it knocked him over. As Spike laid there Kruger picked him up aimed his head back and drove his tusks into Spike. 1 life remaining “Maybe the option to be his pet ferret is still open?” Varek taunted. Spike got up and looked around, he was outside the building again, not waiting for Kruger to find him again he ran into an area he hadn’t gone to. As he grabbed some more shards he ran into an area that was mainly just junk piles and he hid when he heard the roar of a chainsaw. Looking around he saw Kruger making his way into the area, Spike watched him until he left and he made his way into the next area. As Spike made it there he saw the last few shards were there. Spike made his way over and collected them. “Whew, where is it?” Spike asked. “In a habitat nearby,” Varek said and Spike nodded and went to the nearest habitat and saw it was a pit with water and a rock in the middle, where a safe lie. “This seems too easy,” Spike said suspiciously. “Never know,” Varek said as Spike slid down the arching wall and he swam over to the rock and claimed the contract. As he turned he saw a walrus head poking out of the water. “...Please tell me you're not Kruger,” Spike pleaded. “Heeheeheeh…” The figure suddenly rose out of the water and raised his saw. “AH!” Spike jumped out of the way of a slash that would have taken his head. “FORGET BEING A FERRET! Food for my other pets is what you can be!” Kruger said before he swung his chainsaw at Spike wildly. “Bad time to let you know this is your last chance?” Varek said. “Seriously?!” Spike said as he tried to scramble up the wall and he managed to grab the ledge and climb out. Kruger climbed out as well and he lunged and swung his tusks down at him. “AGH!” Spike rolled out of the way and he got up and ran for it while Kruger was pulling his tusks out of the ground. Spike ran around the corner and slid on the ground a little. As he got up he ran for it as Kruger rounded a corner and ran after Spike with a frenzied look in his eyes. “I’LL RIP YOU TO PIECES!” Kruger yelled as he chased Spike into the pathways of the zoo. As Spike made his way around he heard Varek chuckling. “What could you be laughing about?!” Spike cried. “This is simply amusing,” Varek said. “SHUT UP!” Spike cried as he could practically hear the swishes of the chainsaw behind him. Spike rounded a corner and ran for the exit to this hellish place amidst the cheers of the other prisoners and Kruger narrowly missed a swing. Seeing Spike running for the exit he growled. “NO! NONONO! YOU BELONG TO MEEEE!” Kruger screamed before throwing his chainsaw like a projectile. “AAAH!” Spike turned and saw the saw flying at him. It was going to impale him, he was doomed! And his family… he could see his children being given to those monster hounds, his wife grieving their vanishing, and the fact that in the end… he’ll cease to exist… “I’m sorry… I did my best,” Spike said preparing for the stab. … …. ….. “No!” A sudden voice cried and suddenly a light emanated in front of Spike and it manifested a figure who struck the chainsaw away. “HUH?!” Kruger exclaimed. “What the?” Spike said as he fell on the ground. “Go, I won’t let him hurt you,” She said. “Your kind can’t be here… it’s the law!” Kruger growled getting up. “I took my chance,” She said before turning to Spike and nodding. Spike was in awe, but he knew what she was telling him and he took this chance to run into the portal. “NOOOO!” Kruger cried trying to run at the being but she vanished before he could grab her. Getting up Kruger looked around and hit the ground in frustration. “She can’t be here…” Kruger said. YOU ESCAPED! Spike tumbled to the ground and before he could get up he was picked up by Verak. “You sly human! You employed one of them?!” Varek said his eyes giving off a grey glow. “Wh-what? What are you-” “DON’T LIE TO ME! That was an angel! How did one get down here?!” Varek demanded. “I-I don’t know!” Spike pleaded. “Hnngh… I sense you are telling the truth… I will investigate this, but this will cost you,” Varek said setting Spike down and walking back to his seat. “How?” Spike said. “You will have one less try, and I’m upping the price to your wife as well,” Varek said. “WHAT?!” Spike said as he looked ready to fight him but Varek’s eyes glowed brighter. “You’d be wise not to raise my blood pressure child…” Varek said. Spike backed off but still looked taken aback by these events, an angel?... who is this angel and why is she helping him?... Next time: Amidst a red background a huge fat creature with multiple legs is staring at the viewer, making loud wheezing noises. Author's Note Told ya it'd be dark, but we finally have an appearance of the mysterious being speaking to Spike, who is she? And more is to come soon, I work tomorrow so maybe not immediately.
Nice to eat youSpike stood there, nervously, he’d never been particularly religious but to learn that it was real… it’s a shame he found out this way… “Alright, I will aid you in some ways to make sure this goes off without a hitch,” Verak said. “You will?” Spike asked. “Don’t mistake anything, I expect you to die quickly, so I simply want to see how far you can get with extra tries and various abilities, watching this will be the most fun I’ve had in eons,” Verak chuckled before lighting a cigar in preparation for the coming events. “Why am I not surprised,” Spike sighed knowing there was no kindness in this man/demon. “Now look, you’ll be given the power to teleport out of various situations in which you're about to die, but not every time,” He said. “Why not every time!?” Spike asked. “Where is the motivation without a little danger?” Verak chuckled “And if you die in the process it's no skin off my nose, I’ll just pick up where you left off, I’ll call this situation a mini vacation, the first one I’ve had in ages,” He snorted. “...Ok,” Spike sighed knowing he risks lowering his chances by picking a fight with this guy. “One more thing, don’t expect them to just hand it over, they will undoubtedly try to kill you to buy themselves more time, if they don’t hand it over then take it by force, how you do it, I don’t care, just collect soul shards until its location reveals itself,” Verak said. “Soul-” “Fragmented human souls, I won’t give anymore explanation, the time is ticking as we speak,” Verak said. “Ok, ok, where do I go first?” Spike asked. “Out the door, I have a portal set up to send you to the first location, a place called the Smiling Burger, a quaint restaurant in the circle of gluttony,” Verak said. “Hell has restaurants?” Spike asked. “The things you don’t know about hell could fill several oceans, go,” Verak waved him off. “Ok,” Spike said as he entered the portal. “Heheheh… he’s gonna be torn to shreds, I better put on popcorn,” Verak laughed. -------------------------------------------------------------- Nice to eat you -------------------------------------------------------------- Spike exited and found himself in a small hallway that led towards an area full of chairs and tables and a counter with a figure working on something, he couldn’t quite see what he looked like. “Uuuuhh…” Spike was too scared to move, not knowing where he was. “Move along mortal,” Verak’s voice said in his head. “HUH?!” Spike looked around. “Don’t look so surprised, I’m watching you,” Verak said. “O-ok,” Spike said knowing he had to get moving or the two days would be up, so he made his way up to a greeter counter where another figure hidden by a wall was working on something. “H-hello?” Spike asked hesitantly. “Hm?...” The being paused and turned to see Spike. And Spike screamed… This thing wasn’t human at all! It had skin as yellow as a lemon, a giant head, arms longer than normal, a hairless head, bloodshot eyes, and a huge perpetual grin. A grin that somehow got wider as it looked at him. “Hello! Nice to see a human here, how may we serve you?” He said joyfully as he wiped a little drool off his mouth. “U-uh…” Spike didn’t know what to say. “Ugh, you humans always freeze up when you see a demon, they are called Chipper Rippers, be careful, they possess the souls of cannibals,” Verak said sounding annoyed. “Thanks for the encouragement,” Spike said quietly before returning to the creature. “I-I want to speak to a manager, I… have a message from a certain somebody,” Spike meekly asked. “Sure thing! Follow me,” He said as he turned and walked away and Spike hesitantly followed. As he walked he found the interior of the building was bigger than a normal fast food place. He felt eyes on him everywhere… he looked around and saw multiple Chipper Rippers cleaning off tables now staring at him… one even licked his lips. “Ulp…” Spike said. “Hey, Phil! We got fresh meat- ah I mean a fresh face,” The ripper said to the figure, as the figure turned Spike took a step back, he was taller than the other Chipper Rippers, and bigger too, he was quite fat. “Huh? A human? Goodie, what can we get ya?” Phil asked with a narrowing of his eyes. “I-I came here on the behalf of Verak, and-” Spike didn’t get any further as the being slammed his hand down on the counter. “For the love of hellfire, I’ll get that contract to him when I get it to him!” Phil growled. “L-look, I’m just the messenger, but Verak said it's time,” Spike said. “Well, screw him, I run a successful burger joint, and I don’t want to lose it just because a level four demon got greedy,” Phil spat. “Heheh, he has no idea how outmatched he is,” Varek said in Spike's head. “Varek insists,” Spike nervously said not hearing footsteps behind him. “I said no! What are you going to do about it human?” Phil asked. “I-I-I…” Spike gulped again but he said “I’ll have to take it then,” Spike said. “HAHAHAHAHAHA!” Phil laughed with the other Chipper Rippers and leaned in closely. “You're not doing anything…. Besides dying,” Phil said. “W-what?” Spike said. “First rule of the Smiling Burger, we don’t get to eat… unless our food comes to us…” Phil said. Spike suddenly felt surrounded and turned to see a Ripper with a butcher knife raised behind him. “AAAH!” Spike dodged the swing and ran. “GET HIM!” A Chipper Ripper yelled as he tried to tackle Spike who vaulted over a table and avoided him. “WE’RE EATIN TONIGHT BOYS!” Phil yelled. “He’s pretty skinny, we outta fatten him up first!” Another Ripper laughed maniacally. “I call the eyes!” Another said as they pursued Spike around the tables. “Where do I go!?” Spike asked struggling to avoid them. “There’s doors to the rest of the restaurant you idiot,” Verak said and Spike saw the doors next to the counters and ran for them. “Stop him!” Phil yelled as he came out from behind the counter and tried to grab Spike but he avoided and ran through the back door. After getting through he barricaded it with a mop. Spike was panting heavily and turned to see the rest of the restaurant, it was bigger than any restaurant he knew, and built like a maze! “Better move, that’s not going to hold them forever,” Varek said while audibly eating popcorn. “Ok ok!” Spike ran through the dining area and he looked around, he saw purple crystals floating around. “Are those-” Spike paused when he heard crashing noises and he turned a corner and saw the Rippers pouring in. “Yes, better start collecting before you’re eaten,” Verak said. Suddenly an intercom beeped and Spike looked up at one. “Attention all Rippers, the one who catches him get’s first bite! If I see more than one you all get a beating! So get to it!” Phil ordered and the Chipper Rippers started swarming the area. “Crap crap crap!” Spike said as he ran further in and started collecting shards. As he ran around several tables and down a pathway deeper in a Ripper turned a corner and began chasing him. “NO!” Spike turned and ran. “GET BACK HERE YOU DELICIOUS MORSEL!” He yelled as he threw his knife at him and Spike ducked it. “Not a chance!” Spike rounded the corner and collected more shards before spotting another one standing in his way. Spike managed to skid to a stop and he ran down another path to his right as that one swung its knife at him. Spike pulled a few chairs down and they tripped up on them. Spike turned a corner and collected more shards before another Ripper suddenly tackled him down from around a corner. Spike looked up in terror as he opened his mouth widely and chomped him. 3 lives left “At least you died delicious, hahaha!” Varek taunted “I’m dead… I’m dead…. I’m… huh?” Spike looked around and saw he was back at the beginning “How did-” “I saved you, you're welcome, now continue on, it’s too early for you to die, my vacation just started,” Varek said sounding annoyed. “Gee thanks,” Spike sighed as he got up and resumed running into the restaurant. He ran around the tables and saw blood on some. “Their last meals no doubt,” Varek said. “I have to hurry!” Spike said before a Chipper Ripper threw a knife at Spike and it clipped his cheek. “Agh!” Spike grunted and he looked to see the Ripper. “Dang I missed!” He growled. “The sight of blood just makes me hungrier!” Spike turned and saw a Ripper blindside him with a chair sending him into a wall and he cast the chair aside and brandished his butcher knife before swinging it at him, Spike twisted his body avoiding the swing which was planted in the wall. Spike ran but the creature grabbed him with his longer arm and threw him and Spike tumbled through a table and onto the ground. Spike saw a Ripper leap at him but he picked up a chair and held it in front of him preventing the Ripper from biting him. He snapped his jaws like a wild animal and grabbed at Spike while the other was rounding the corner. “GET. OFF!” Spike shouted as he kicked the Ripper's leg and he fell over and Spike got up and ran into the restaurant as the other threw a chair at him but missed. “DANG IT!” The Ripper growled and he chased Spike but Spike lost him quickly. “These things are crazy!” Spike said. “Well they are cannibals, they lived their lives feasting and torturing their own kind, and now, they are starved slaves to a business,” Verak said. “Great to know!” Spike said as he heard more shouts behind him and saw several Rippers behind him, swishing their butcher knives at him. “AAAAHH!” Spike ran around the edge of the restaurant and dove over a table avoiding several thrown knives. He got up and hid as the Rippers ran past his spot, he was shaking in fear the whole time. As he peeked around the corner to see if there were any more… before a slash from a knife got him in the eye. “AAAH!” Spike cried as the slash blinded him in one eye. “Gotcha!” A Chipper Ripper laughed before he lunged forward and swung his knife, Spike reacted fast enough to pull a table over and the creature tripped and landed neck first on his own knife. Spike looked shocked that he had just unintentionally killed one… but no, he had no choice… He turned to leave the Ripper on the floor, bleeding, when suddenly he was grabbed and turned around. “Did I say you could leave mortal?” The Same Chipper Ripper asked with an evil smile as his neck regenerated before he raised his knife and swung down into Spike’s face. 2 Lives left “Dining in are we? Maybe they’ll at least season you first,” Varek said boredly. Spike got up in shock at the entrance and looked around, in shock he felt his eye and inexplicably found it healed. “You gotta stop getting caught, or do you not want me to spare your kids after all?” Varek asked. “NO! I-I just need time,” Spike said as he got up “How did he survive?” Spike asked. “Demons can't die in hell by a mortals hand, it's a fact, and not just because humans are weak, but because you literally can’t kill them, now move!” Varek ordered. “Ok ok!” Spike said as he ran into the dining area again. He ran through the dining area and found more shards on the side that he hadn’t visited yet, as he made his way through the winding corridors he rounded a corner and a knife narrowly missed him and he turned to see three Rippers. “There he is!” One said. “Get back I saw him first!” Another said. “Mine mine mine!” Another said as they all approached him, with knives in hand and the other reaching out for him. Spike was about to run the other way but saw another two and he saw he was surrounded. “I want first bite!” One said. “No, me!” Another said. “Don’t make me bite you!” Another one threatened. …Ding! “Alright, you got me,” Spike said raising his hands. “What?” Varek said. “Huh?” The Rippers said. “But why do you have to wait until Phil says so, why doesn’t at least one of you get to enjoy yourselves?” Spike said praying this works. “Whaddya mean?” The Ripper up front asked. “He said first come first serve right? Whose gonna be the one?” Spike asked. “....” They glanced at eachother. “I say you all get to enjoy yourselves… after you figure out who gets to eat me first, you're all hungry aren’t you?” Spike asked. “You sly dog,” Varek chuckled. “....MINE!” One Ripper lunged but another pulled him back and tried to lunge, another tackled him down. “HE’S MINE!” He said. “Eff off!” Another said but a Ripper punched him and tried to grab Spike and pretty soon they were all fighting over who got Spike. “Alright, good luck,” Spike said as he stepped away from their scuffle. Spike managed to sneak away and fled into the evil restaurant and he collected more shards. Hearing shouts in the distance Spike knew they’d figured out they’d been tricked and he hurried along. Spike made his way around a corner and into an area with drink fountains and two Rippers leaped over a windowless hole in the wall and swung at him. Spike was adapting, however, and he slid on the ground under the swing and between them. As he got up he collected more shards while avoiding his pursuers and he ran into a kitchen area containing more shards, the two Rippers blocked him on either side. “I’m so hungry!” One said. “I want to eat!” the other said and they climbed onto the counters and jumped at him, Spike ducked and rolled as the two tumbled over eachother. “You're getting better at this, I may have more fun watching this than expected,” Verak laughed. “Yeah yeah,” Spike sighed as he ran out of the kitchen and into another dining area where the last shards are. “Is there anymore?” Spike asked as he collected. “No, but that’s probably the least of your worries in a minute,” Verak said. “What? What do you-” Shard count 0 Screams filled the restaurant before suddenly everything went silent. “Huh?” Spike became worried. “Heeheehee… eat… must… eeeeaaat…” A warped voice said as a Ripper came out, only he was darkened in color and his eyes were glowing red. He was salivating rivers out of his mouth and he looked completely deranged. “Wh-What the heck?” Spike said. “Frenzy mode, when demons are really mad they enter this state and become even more dangerous, you should run,” Varek casually said. “SKRREEEEE!” The Ripper roared as he ran at Spike chomping at the air like a starved animal. “AAAHH!” Spike ran around the other side and made it back into the main dining area, as he looked around he saw more Chipper Rippers gathering, looking much the same. “SKREEEE!” They all shrieked as Spike bolted to his left. “WHERE IS THE WAY OUT!?” Spike screamed. “First the contract is located in a safe near the exit to the dining area,” Varek said. “Ok!” Spike said as he ran frantically through the area as a dozen Rippers tore through the area, knocking tables and chairs down and even jumping up on the countertops and chasing him. “GIVE US YOUR FLESH!” They howled. “NOT A CHANCE!” Spike cried as he made it to the exit, but before he could make it to the door a Ripper jumped out and took a swing, Spike ducked it and ran to the right where he saw the safe. “What’s the combination?!” Spike frantically asked. “Allow me,” Suddenly the safe glowed and was ripped open. “You could’ve done that sooner!?” Spike cried. “Shut up, I didn’t know where it was until the soul shards powering its barrier were collected,” Varek said. “Ok!” Spike turned and saw the Rippers rounding the corner and they glowered at him. Spike ran forward and grabbed the contract before trying to make a break for the other doors when he ran full-on into a big sturdy figure and fell down. Phil… “You’ve caused enough problems at my restaurant! Forget eating you, I just want you dead!” Phil said brandishing two butcher knives. Spike got up and backed away, turning he saw the other Chipper Rippers were afraid as well. “Heheheheheh, got you all to myself now,” Phil said before he jumped forward with surprising speed and swung both knives down. Spike yelped and dodged around the swings before running around him, only to find two Rippers blocking the exit. “No fair!” Spike turned and ran back into the dining area and Phil was in close pursuit. Spike ran into an area full of chairs, expecting the lead Ripper would trip but to Spike’s horror he just plowed through them and swung for his head. Spike ducked and fled down the pathway back towards the doors. “GET BACK HERE!” Phil yelled as he was gaining on Spike. “I gotta lose him!” Spike cried. “Figure it out,” Varek said. “Hmm,” Spike looked ahead and saw the Rippers blocking the exit… let’s hope this works, he stopped and turned. Phil closed in. “YOU'RE MINE!” Phile lunged. Spike dodged to the side and he wound up plowing right into the Chipper Ripper guarding the door. “OOOOFFFF!” They both crashed through the door and onto the ground. “See ya!” Spike jumped over them and ran away. “STOP HIM!” Phil cried and Spike made his way back out into the entrance area. Five Rippers were guarding the exit, and with Phil getting up in the back, Spike had to get moving. So he ran forward and dodged the first one's stab. He avoids the next two swings. One leaped at him but Spike managed to stop in time and the Ripper wound up crashing over a table. And the last one threw his knife at Spike who ducked and the knife sailed overhead and hit Phil in the face. “OUCH!” Phil cried as he fell over. “Crap!” The Chipper Ripper exclaimed and he ran at Spike who dodged around a table and the Chipper Ripper foolishly chased him around it instead of standing in front of the path to the portal. And Spike ran towards the portal. “NOOOOOO!” Phil screamed as Spike vanished into the portal. YOU ESCAPED! Spike stumbled through the portal and crashed into thin air. “Ooof!” Spike grunted as he fell down. “Good thing I put up that barrier, or you would have damaged my desk,” Verak chuckled. “I… I did it!” Spike breathed a sigh of relief. “Yes you did, I will admit, I figured you’d have been torn limb for limb by now, maybe there’s more to you than meets the eye,” Varek said. “Alright, I got your contract,” Spike said as he handed it over. “Good,” He said. “Can I leave now?” Spike asked and Varek just laughed. “Did you seriously think that was the only one boy? We just started,” Varek said. “...What?” Spike said looking upset to hear that. “There are eleven more to go, and things may only get tougher as you go,” Varek said. “....No way… I barely made it out of there alive!” Spike exclaimed. “If you are so intimidated by it, just give me your children,” Varek said. “....Ok fine, what’s next?...” Spike curses the fact that he is using his children as bargaining chips. “Heheh, how are you on the concept of the occult?” Varek asked. “Huh?” Spike said. Next time: Amidst a red background a shadowy hooded figure with what looks like a fin sticking out of their back is heard muttering something, and echoes of wet footsteps can be heard. Coming soon. Author's Note I understand you may have questions, feel free to ask them, I'll answer some possible ones here. Will there be angels since there are demons? [you'll see, not to sound like Vince] Were the Chipper Rippers named after the Ripper Jacks? [No, it's coincidental] Was there anything about their appearance that symbolized something negative? [no I swear they aren't] Will Spike get powers next chapter? [Yes he will ] Why isn't there alliteration in the level title? [I'll tell you why, it's a little hard to think of one that works, however if you guys have suggestions I'll take it and use it.] Why no swears [I'm uncomfortable with swearing tbh sorry] [And no the fact they have knives isn't a Murder Monkey reference]
Sink or swimSpike shifted around uncomfortably. “Not well, I've kinda been busy raising kids to study that,” Spike said. “Well, then you'll be ill-prepared for this next one, you most likely haven't heard of the cult of the Red Fin have you?” Verak said. “Of course I haven't,” Spike said. Verak gave a puff of his cigar before continuing “They're this stupid cult known for blood sacrifice, eating the flesh of their enemies, and praising a giant fish. Their group got their start making a deal with me but now they're late on their payments go and take their contract,” Verak ordered. “You're asking me to take on a bloodthirsty cult?” Spike said fearfully but Varek just gave him a look “ok ok,” Spike said. “One more thing, seeing as the stakes are raised and your survival against the Chipper Rippers has me interested I will grant you an ability,” Verak said. “An ability?” Spike said in shock. “Yes,” Verak waved his hand and a magic glow occurred “You now possess temporary invisibility,” he said. “Wow, how do I -” Spike asked. “Just say vanish,” Verak said “Now get moving I'm getting impatient,” Verak said eating some more popcorn. “Hmmm…” Spike grumbled as he turned and walked through the doorway into the next portal. Sink or swim Spike exited the portal and found himself in what seemed to be a dark partially flooded tunnel “Ugh,” Spike looked down at the calf-level water and he sloshed through the tunnel. “This place gives me the creeps,” Spike said. “So does everything you humans don’t understand,” Verak said. “Where do I go?” Spike asked as he came to a fork in the path. “Right,” Verak said. Spike moved on down that way and eventually, the water got deeper, making it tougher to move around quickly. Spike moved on down the tunnel and eventually as he was beginning to wonder if he was ever going to find the exit he suddenly heard something. “Huh?” Spike got up against the wall to take cover and he looked down the tunnel and saw figures walking around a corner. There were three of them and they had something sticking out of their backs. “What the?” Spike whispered. Suddenly the one in the back paused and turned around. “Eep!” Spike hid by crouching in the dark. The hooded figure looked around before leaving. “Whew,” Spike said before he followed them they made their way down a path until Spike could see a light at the end of the tunnel. As Spike saw them go down a set of stairs and vanish he decided to follow and as he reached the edge of the tunnel he saw what looked like a stereotypical cult room, he saw a bunch of hooded figures all praying and muttering. And the one at an altar reading from a book seemed like the leader. “Harken! We see into the eyes of our leader! But when he looks back! He looks into your soul!” the apparent bishop declared. “Odd,” Spike said. “And now we raise our heads, and growl so that our-... someone's here,” The bishop said as he looked around before pulling his hood back. And Spike's eyes widened upon seeing a hammerhead shark head on the bishop. “H-huh?” Spike said. “What is it Dalso?” Another pulled their hood down, revealing a mako shark. “We have an intruder….. THERE!” The one called Dalso pointed at Spike and the other shark cultists turned around. “Ulp,” Spike gulped. “What business does an unmarked human have to interrupt our sacred ceremony?” Dalso demanded as the other sharks growled. “I-I-I come in peace! I have a message,” Spike said as he hesitantly made his way down the path to Dalso. “Hnngh, no bowing? Filthy human,” Dalso said. “S-sorry,” Spike bowed a little and continued walking up to him as he stopped in front of him he stared into Dalso’s eyes. “Well? What is this important message?” Dalso asked with a suspicious glare. “Th-the time is up on the contract, Varek wants it now,” Spike asked. “.....You interrupt our sacred ceremony to kick us out of our church?! I have half a mind to-” “I’m just the messenger, tell Varek your issues,” Spike said hands up. “You then go on to order the bishop of the Red Fin around?! You simple ape, give me one good reason not to make chum out of you,” Dalso growled. “....I have a family?” Spike meeped. “Then they’ll miss you- hold on…” Dalso paused and sniffed him. “Huh?” Spike said. “Your time isn’t up yet…. Did Verak bring you here directly from the mortal world?” Dalso asked. “Yes?” Spike said. “Shouldn’t have told him that…” Verak audibly facepalmed. “....Hahahahaha! What a fool, does he not know the rules here?” Dalso laughed. “Huh?” Spike said. “Let me make this clear to you, did he not tell you the dangers of a living mortal dying in hell?” Dalso said. “No,” Spike said. “You die here, your soul fades to oblivion, simple as that,” Dalso said. “....What?” Spike said in shock. “Indeed, you’ve been played,” Dalso said. “Varek is this true?” Spike asked. “Yeah, so what?” Varek asked. “....This just got worse,” Spike said. “Indeed,” Dalso grinned showing his sharp teeth. “J-just, please give me the contract and I’ll leave you to you-” Spike was suddenly grabbed by the neck by Dalso. “You think I’ll let you leave after the disrespect you have shown us?! On the contrary, oblivion might be the best teacher for you,” Dalso said before throwing Spike to the ground and the other shark cultists began surrounding him. “It's against schedule but I’ll allow it, feeding time,” Dalso said with a laugh. “Crap!” Spike said as he got up and saw the mako sharks surrounding him, looking hungry. “I’m gonna die,” Spike said. “Vanish, remember?” Varek boredly said. “...Oh yeah!” Spike said before he suddenly shouted, “VANISH!” Spike said before he disappeared before their eyes. “Huh!?” A shark gasped. “Where did he go?” Another said. “Spread out and find him!” Dalso ordered and the sharks did so. Spike hurriedly ran down a chamber and saw he was on a catwalk over a giant pool of water. “Huh?” Spike said before he saw a massive shape moving around in the water. “Nope!” Spike ran on before his invisibility wore off. As Spike made his way into the next room he found himself in a damp series of corridors with soul shards around the area. And all the areas were flooded to waist level. “Oh great,” Spike said before he made his way in and he stepped into the waist-deep cold water and began sloshing his way around, collecting shards gradually. Spike seemed to have a headstart but it wasn’t long until he heard splashing around nearby. “Huh?” Spike said as he turned and saw a shape moving in the water. “Not good,” Spike hurriedly made his way down the path as the shape moved after him. He made his way into another chamber and ran around collecting shards, as he made his way into the next hallway with more shards he heard splashing and turned to see a mako moving towards him, diving in and out of the water like a champion swimmer. “DINNER TIME!” The mako laughed. “I’m not going to be fish food!” Spike yelled as he hurriedly pressed through the water as the creature swam after him. Spike saw some floating boxes up ahead and he jumped onto one and leaped to the next one as the shark jumped out of the water and chomped at his feet. “Yikes!” Spike cried as he jumped back into the water and made his way through the flooded hallways collecting more shards, thankfully he saw unflooded floors in the distance. “Thank goodness!” Spike said as he made his way to the land and he turned to see the shark peeking out of the water. Spike thought he was safe when he suddenly was turned around by another mako grabbing him and roaring in his face before biting him. 3 lives left “So long 'old chum', hahahaha,” Verak taunted. Spike woke up floating in the water and he quickly got up. “Ugh, dangit,” Spike said. “Not very careful are you?” Verak taunted. “Shut up,” Spike said before he went on splashing down the pathway he didn’t take and he made it to semi-dry land soon and was running at normal speed. As he ran he encountered a mako turning a corner. “There he is!” he said. “Vanish!” Spike said as he disappeared as the shark lunged and tried to bite him. “Huh?!” He looked around and saw splashes going away in the puddles. “There he is!” The mako said as another one that was with him aided in pursuit. “Not good not good!” Spike said as he ran up some stairs and into another chamber full of books. He didn’t sightsee as he made his way onto a bridge and ran across it collecting more soul shards. As Spike collected another few in the hallways on the other side of the bridge he glanced back and saw that he lost the sharks. “Whew,” Spike ran around a corner and found more water and he climbed in carefully. As he made his way through the water he kept an eye out for anything moving. And he saw that more were sneaking around. Two makos coming from different hallways began splashing in the water as they came after him. “Why me!?” Spike said as he ran as fast as the water would allow him “Vanish!” Spike said disappearing to lose them but the sharks were still on him. “What? How-” Spike looked down and saw he was moving around the water and it was giving him away. “This power is terrible for here!” Spike complained. “Be thankful I gave it mortal,” Verak said back. Spike went into another solid ground area and ran from the sharks who followed him out of the water and chased him. “We’ll string you up and eat your innards!” A mako growled. “And feed what’s left to the master!” The other said. As they chased him Spike noticed another coming around a corner and baring his teeth. “One chance,” Spike said as he slid on the ground and avoided the sharkmans grab. “Dang it!” The shark spun and tried to go after Spike who got up and ran into the room to his left. As he went in there he saw it was a dead end. “Crap!” Spike turned and saw the sharks blocking the only exit. “Snack time boys,” One mako said. “Not today!” Spike said and in desperation, he ran and jumped through a window. “No!” The three ran to the window. “Hah! I-” Spike taunted before hitting the ground hard. “You really don’t like thinking things through, do you?” Varek asked Spike. “Ugh,” Spike got up and found he was on another bridge and he got up and ran into the next set of hallways as he collected more shards he heard the makos in the distance and used vanish to hide against a wall as they walked past. Afterward, he made his way into a stairwell and collected more shards going down it. As he made his way to the bottom he found himself in the same giant pool room containing the giant fish. Spike was terrified, what if it was waiting to get him? “Hey! He’s down there!” Spike looked up and saw more makos on the catwalk and they jumped off and into the water and they began swimming towards him. “Not good!” Spike said as he ran across the platform over the dark murky water the makos climbing on and chasing him as well. As he made it halfway across he heard an echo go through the room. Spike turned and saw the water parting as something big was rushing towards him! “AAAHHH!” Spike screamed as he ran faster and he jumped just in time avoiding a colossal shark's jaws as they snapped for him, he panted fearfully as he saw the titan of a shark look at him with cold eyes as it slid back into the water, he saw the makos bowing as this happened, is this their ‘revered’ one?. “I gotta leave,” Spike said honestly at the edge of his fear and he ran up another set of stairs. As he ran up the stairs he was kicked by a mako going down the stairs. “Got you!” He said before he closed in and attacked with a claw. 2 lives left “Hook line and sinker,” Verak said. Spike got up and he was in the chamber he started in. “You're running out of tries,” Verak said. “Ok,” Spike said knowing he had to be more careful. He made his way across the catwalk and over to the sacrificial chamber, using vanish to sneak past Dalso who was still there for some reason. As he made his way to the other hall on the other side he found himself in a series of rooms with bookshelves and desks, but most importantly, there were shards. Spike made his way through the library of sorts and began collecting shards. As he ran down several rooms he heard clamoring and turned to see several sharks headed for him. “Vanish!” Spike called and he disappeared as one lunged at him. “Huh?” The shark looked around while he was picking himself off of the ground. Spike hurried along the way, collecting more shards along the back of the library. As he made his way across a bookshelf he heard growls and paused, hiding from the mako on the other side looking for him. When the shark looked away Spike made his way forward, avoiding him. “Whew,” Spike said as he finished collecting shards in this area “Did I find the last one?” Spike asked. “Yes, the contract is in the sacrificial room, but there's a trap there,” Verak said. “Good to know,” Spike said as he snuck back through the library area again and made it back to the hallway that leads back to the sacrificial room. As Spike looked in. Dalso was gone… not a good sign oddly enough… As Spike used vanish to sneak through the area and get over to the altar, and behind it was a safe. “Are they all in safes?” Spike asked. “Yes,” Verak opened the safe for Spike and he leaned down and grabbed the contract before putting it in his pocket. “Ok, now RUN!” Varek said. “Ok ok!” Spike said as he turned to do just that… before the floor fell out from beneath him. “That’s why,” Verak sighed. “AAAAHHH!” Spike fell all the way down the slide and into freezing water. “Agh!” Spike came up out of the water and looked around… where- “RROOOOOAAAAR” A familiar echo sounded and Spike felt his blood freeze. “No…. NOOO!” Spike hurriedly tried to swim away but he knew he’d never outswim the monster. But then he saw his saving grace, a platform in the middle of the water and he swam with all his strength. He could tell it was closing in. He managed to climb onto the platform in the center and scurry away from the edge as the massive shark lunged over the side and tried to eat him. Spike made it to the middle and shivered fearfully as he saw it circling. “Hahahaha! The master feeds tonight!” Dalso laughed from the catwalk with his followers all of them looked frenzied with red eyes. “Please! Let me go!” Spike cried. “No,” Dalso laughed again “How long can you survive?” “Verak! Help me!” Spike pleaded. “Hmm… such a bother,” Verak sighed. “Help me please!” Spike begged as the shark fin breached the water. “What’s in it for me?” Verak asked. “Name it!” Spike cried as the shark leaped at him from the platform's edge, causing it to lean. “Hmm… ok,” Verak said before audibly snapping his fingers and making the platform move, making the shark fall off. “HUH?!” Dalso exclaimed. “Survive until we get to safety,” Verak said. “Thanks!” Spike said as he stood he looked around waiting for it to jump again and it did, leaping right at him. “AH!” Spike hit the floor as the massive shark sailed overhead and splashed down. “Nononoo! Varek you're not allowed to interfere with the masters feeding!” Dalso growled. “AAAH!” Spike grabbed onto a divet in the platform as the shark bit the platform's edge and tilted it towards him. “Fall fall!” The makos demanded. Eventually, the shark let go and swam beneath the platform and rammed it from below to make Spike fall off. “Crap!” Spike fell over but managed to stay on the platform. “We’ve made it,” Verak said as the platform made it to the edge of the walkway next to the pool. “Finally!” Spike jumped on and ran for it as the shark lunged out of the water again and missed. “STOP HIM!” Dalso ordered as Spike made it back up into the entry to the catacombs and ran across the walkway. “Vanish!” Spike disappeared and managed to slip by each of the mako’s who tried to grab him, making it to Dalso. “You're going nowhere!” Dalso said. Spike reared a kick and struck him between the legs. “AAGH!” Dalso fell over and Spike ran past him “STOP HIM!” Dalso screeched. Spike made it back into the sacrificial chamber and made it back into the tunnel and he pressed through the water while a dozen sharks pursued him. He made his way to the fork in the tunnels and saw the portal. “They're gonna get you,” Varek chuckled. “No they aren’t Spike said as he managed to get to the lower water and he ran as the frenzied sharks poured from the other side of the fork after him. “ALMOST THERE!” Spike said as he made it to the portal and a Shark lunged and bit down on his shoulder and at the same time Spike jumped through the portal. YOU ESCAPED! Spike tumbled through the portal with the shark and they tumbled to the ground. “AAAGH!” Spike cried as the shark rolled him over and opened its mouth to eat him. “Halt,” A voice said and the shark froze before looking up and seeing Verak. “That is mine,” He said pointing at Spike. “Y-you…grrrr….” The shark growled and got up before lunging at him “You won’t take our contract! DIE-” Verak reached his hand out quickly, grabbed the shark by the snout, and broke his neck and he dropped dead. “Pest,” Verak sighed before picking up the shark and chucking it to his dogs who eagerly dug into it. “Wow…” Spike realized Verak was clearly stronger than a normal demon. Suddenly he felt his shoulder get healed and he was surprised. “Get up, we have more work to do,” Verak said. “C-can I have a moment,” Spike begged. “Sure, while the clock ticks away towards your children ending up like that,” Verak gestured to the dogs eating the shark. “Ok fine,” Spike got up and stood before him. “Alright, let’s prep you, for the next one stands to be quite entertaining,” Verak said. “Why?” Spike asked. “...Do you have Coulrophobia?” Verak asked. Next time: Amidst a red background a shadowy being with curly hair, spherical body segments, and long bendy almost rubber-like limbs with gloved hands at the end. The music of a carnival is heard playing in the background as well as a strange ticking noise, giggling… and then suddenly, maniacal laughter. Coming soon. Author's Note If you have any questions feel free to ask in the comments. And also tell me what you thought of the level.
A killer joke“I’ve never been particularly afraid of clowns, I don't care for them but I'm not really scared,” Spike said. “This one may change your opinion, I have a clown who wanted to start his own circus, but he’s been dodging me as of late, I want you to put a stop to it and get me the contract he’s withholding,” Varek said. “Fine,” Spike sighed. “And as for what you can do for me,” Varek said. “Huh?” Spike said. “Since I so generously saved you from the shark, you can get me the clowns nose, that will show him to try and stiff me,” Varek said. “....Is it attached?” Spike asked. “Yes,” Varek said. “...How-” “You ask alot of questions,” Varek waved him off. “Do I still get invisibility?” Spike asked. “Yes,” Varek sounded annoyed now. “Ok,” Spike moved on and opened the door, seeing a new image on the portal. Instead of a Chipper Ripper or a shark it was of a clown. “Here goes nothing,” Spike entered. -------------------------------------------------------------------- A killer joke -------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike made it to what seemed like a normal carnival, it had an entrance that looked like a clowns mouth, and the park was apparently called- “Topsy Turvey Land?” Spike said as he entered and he heard the gates squeak as they swung open. As he wandered in he looked around, there were rides, food booths, and the works. Spike made his way down the center path amidst the booth and immediately saw shards, so he began collecting them. As he made his way to the other side of the booth path Spike found himself in the presence of a big realistic statue of what looked like the weirdest clown ever. Its long limbs looked like blue rubber, he had gloves on the hands and comically big shoes, his body was segmented like a snowman, spherical body segments decorated in clown fashion leading up to his head which was covered in white make-up orange curly hair on both sides of his head but not on top, big eyes and a red nose above a wide grin. “Ugh,” Spike didn’t like the look of this guy, and so he resumed collecting shards around the statue. “Heeheehee,” Spike paused and turned towards the statue when he heard it giggle. “A-are you alive?” Spike asked. “......BOO!” The clown spun and lunged at Spike. “AAAHHH!” Spike braced himself… but he didn’t die, when he looked he saw the clown had paused inches from his face and then gave a loud squeaky and frankly annoying laugh. “Gah ha ha ha ha ha ha ha!” He finished and he began walking towards Spike with long steps and he towered over him. “HIYA FRIEND! Wanna hear a joke?” He asked. “Whatever you do, don’t laugh,” Varek warned. “Why?” Spike asked. “Just don’t,” Varek said. “O-ok?” Spike said. “Why’d they burn the bone at the stake?............because he was a blas-femur! HAHAHAHAHA!” The clown laughed. “Heheheh, that was kinda-” Spike made the mistake of chuckling and suddenly he felt a tightness in his chest. “I said not to laugh!” Varek said exasperatedly. “Ok ok,” Spike said as he backed away. “WELL?! Ain’t ya goin to laugh some more? Laughter is the best medicine! I need some now as a matter-of-fact!” The clown pulled out a pill bottle labeled ‘laughter’ and he ate it, bottle and all before laughing some more, Spike admittedly chuckled again and the tightness in his chest worsened he grunted holding his chest wondering what the strange pain was. “Why does my chest hurt when I laugh?” Spike asked him. “Oh don’t worry bout it, probably just hunger, where are mah manners? Hello! I’m Topsy, Topsy the clown!” He introduced himself. “H-hi?” Spike said grunting as his chest hurt some more. “Wanna hear another joke?” Topsy asked. “No, I came here to ask for Vareks contract, he said times up,” Spike said. “.....” The clown suddenly quieted and just stared at him with a flat look. “Huh?” Spike said. “Of course, you are… why else would somebody come here…” Topsy looked sad now. “Hey are you-” Suddenly Spike was scooped off the ground and thrown “AAAH!” Spike hit a wall. “Heeheehee… I don’t like that Varek guy, a real downer, who wants to take my circus and expand his real estate… well I won’t letcha! What do you call a three-humped camel?” He asked. “Why would I-” Spike said before the clowns voice warped. “WHY?!” Topsy demanded. “Um… I dunno,” Spike said. “Really pregnant! HAHAHAHA, GET IT?!” The clown stomped up to him. “L-look please just hand it-” Spike pleaded. “LAUGH AT MY JOKE!” Topsy growled. “Fine! Ha ha ha, there are you-” Spike cried out as it felt like a mini heart attack. “Doesn’t the joke just make you wanna laugh…. Till you croak…” Topsy asked. “Wha-what’s happening?” Spike asked. “It’s my curse… You laugh at me, you die,” Topsy said with a wave before Spike’s vision went dark. 3 lives left “That joke was killer wasn’t it?” Varek taunted. Spike reappeared at the gate to Topsy Turvy land gasping for air and he got up. “Realise why you can’t laugh now?” Varek said like he was talking down to him. “Yes,” Spike sighed and he made his way down the path again and saw Topsy back in the same spot as before, but the clown looked at him in surprise. “How are you still here?” Topsy asked. “Varek pulled me out and healed me, now give me the contract,” Spike said. “....Hahaha….. NO!” Topsy stretched on of his arms forward and Spike ducked the grab and ran for it down the path to his right. He resumed collecting shards as the clown pursued him on all fours with his stretchy limbs. “AAAH!” Spike cried as he rounded a corner and the clown followed him. “HAHAHA! What do you call an athlete on coffee!?” Topsy asked. “Shut up!” Spike said. “A person with the RUNS, HAHAHA!” Topsy grabbed a crate and threw it at Spike who avoided it. Spike collected a shard and tried to run around another corner but the clown swatted him with a hand and sent him flying down the path to the opposite side. As Spike landed he looked up at the clown climbing over the top of the tents. “Laugh already!” Topsy demanded. “NOT A CHANCE!” Spike got up and ran before stopping when he saw what looked like an RC car toy. “Huh?” Spike said before it drove at him and it was ticking…. “I don’t like this!” Spike said and he kicked it away, as it landed it exploded “HUH?!” Spike said seeing it detonate. “Heheheheheheheh, if you don’t wanna laugh, then you’ll go out with a bang instead!” Topsy said before he stretched an arm upwards and grabbed a skyline and he climbed onto a tightrope, as he walked across it balancing he was juggling more cars and he threw more explosives that landed and drove at Spike. “AAAH!” Spike ran from the bombs and he fled down another path as the bombs exploded behind him. Spike ran up a stairwell to get away from the cars and he jumped onto a swinging ship ride, but before he could get off it started swinging. “CRAP!” Spike tumbled and held onto a chair as it swung back at forth. As he was wondering what to do next Topsy jumped on and grabbed Spike by the arm… and Spike was electrocuted. “AAAAAAAHHHH!” Spike cried as he was shocked. “What? Don’t like my joybuzzer?” Topsy laughed as he chucked Spike into another tent and several cars drove in after him and blew up. 2 lives left “I’d say stop clowning around, but then this circus would be out of good clowns,” Varek said. “Spike!” Verak said to get Spike's attention as he got up. “What?” Spike asked. “Oh good, I thought you gave up, not as fun for me,” Verak said. “Ugh,” Spike got up and hurried back into the carnival where the monster was likely waiting for him. Spike ran into the deeper part of the carnival and searched around, finding more shards in the deeper part of the park. As Spike made his way in he heard a familiar laugh and he hid behind a cotton candy machine as Topsy walked past. “Hmm….” Topsy walked over to the cotton candy machine and began scooping himself some cotton candy before moving on. “Whew,” Spike said before he ran on and collected more shards. As Spike made his way into the park some more he saw he was in a food court of sorts, as Spike made his way around and collected the shards before making his way to the edge of the circus as he ran around collecting shards on the other side he saw more RC cars rounding a curve and driving towards him. “Yikes!” Spike ran as they drove after him and blew up around him. One explosion sent him flying and he rolled on the ground before getting up and continuing running. As Spike ran he saw Topsy swinging on a trapeze rope overhead. “FOUND YA!” Topsy yelled as he descended onto Spike and Spike dodged down into a hall of mirrors attraction. “Heehee!” Topsy followed him in. Spike ran around feeling his way through the mirror hallways while avoiding the demon clown. As Spike made his way around he turned and saw the clown staring him in the eye. “Boogedyboo!” He said. “AGH!” Spike instinctively threw a punch and broke the mirror, cutting his hand. “Gotcha!” The clown was behind him and he slammed him against the mirror before slamming him against another and chucking him through another. “AGH!” Spike grunted, he looked up and Topsy was gone. Spike went on to get up and for self-defense he grabbed a glass shard and he made his way around. “Vanish,” Spike said and he disappeared. “Huh? Whew did ya go?” Topsy asked appearing from the ceiling. Spike collected all the shards and got out of the mirror house before his vanish wore off. As he made his way to the rest of the carnival he collected the shards he ran across. Spike saw the next batch of shards ahead and he used vanish again just in case more of those exploding cars were there. As Spike made it he saw there were more of the cars, so he snuck around them while they couldn’t see him. "I-I need a break, I'm out of breath," Spike panted as he made his way into an area with more rides. Afterwards he made it to a Ferris wheel and he got in to hide and catch his breath, as it went up. “Whew…” Spike said taking this chance to calm down and catch his breath. “Really poor choice,” Varek said as Spike suddenly stumbled as the ride suddenly staggered and Spike looked out and saw Topsy at the bottom. “Wheel wheel, the Ferris eh?” Topsy joked “I can always fix it later,” Topsy then planted several cars at them bottom. “NONONONONONO-” Spike cried as the cars blew up. “I was hoping to get a break!” Spike cried as he fell with the ride as the ferris wheel fell over and hit the ground. As the dust was kicked up Spike crawled out having miraculously survived. As he did however Topsy climbed across the wheel and grabbed Spike before holding him up. “Guess your time is up,” Topsy said before squeezing a flower on his chest and it sprayed Spike with acid and he screamed in pain before Topsy dropped Spike into the Ferris car before dropping a bomb in after him. “Bombs away!” Topsy laughed before the car blew up. 1 life left “You're making it hard not to root for the clown,” Verak said. Spike got up panting heavily. “Get back to work,” Verak said. “Can I have a moment?” Spike asked honestly shaking from the acid experience. “No,” Verak said and Spike forced himself to move on as he heard more RC car toys in the distance. Spike ran down another path avoiding them and this time he ran to a merry-go-round and he ran on it collecting shards before making his way to the other food court, and he found more there. When he collected the last little bit there he heard the intercom go off. “Attention all parkgoers, the park is closing in ten minutes,” Topsy’s voice said. “No...” Spike said. “Anyone still here… heehee, will become locked in and won’t ever leave again…. HAHAHAHAHA!” Topsy laughed. “I gotta hurry!” Spike ran deeper into the park and he collected more shards. As he did… “HIYA!” Topsy said as he appeared in front of Spike. “No!” Spike cut through an alleyway as a stretchy arm raced after him. “Imma getcha!” Topsy laughed. “Not a chance!” Spike said as he appeared on the other side and he ran over to the bumper carts area Spike ran around and collected the shards but as he tried to leave Topsy climbed in after him and sent more RC cars at Spike by producing them from his mouth. Spike panicked and jumped over the railing of the bumper carts area and he made his way towards the center of the carnival. “Almost there!” Spike said as he collected the last few shards. “Finally, the contract is in the platform Topsy was on when you first met him.” Varek said. “It is?” Spike asked. “Yes,” Varek said as Spike ran towards the platform and Spike wondered how he was going to get it when he noticed the cars were still chasing him and he got an idea. “Come on!” Spike said as he ran up to the platform and he stood there as the car toys drove towards him. “Risky,” Varek said. “Gotta time it right,” Spike said and when Topsy came around he saw this and his eyes widened. “NOOOO!” Topsy cried as the cars exploded and at the same time Spike dodged back and the explosions broke open the platform. Revealing the safe that Varek opened. Spike grabbed the contract but Topsy grabbed him. “WHY YOU LITTLE-” Topsy said but Spike though quickly and pulled out the glass shard and slashed Topsy’s nose off. “AAAAAAAAAGH!” Topsy cried as he fell down. Spike grabbed the nose and got up but Topsy grabbed him by the leg and swung him around hitting him against walls. “THAT WAS A MISTAKE YOU LITTLE WRETCH!” a frenzied Topsy said. “NGH!” Spike stabbed Topsy in the hand and Topsy let him go and Spike gunned it for the exit while the psycho clown pursued him. “I’M GONNA KILL YOU!” Topsy screeched as he chased after him reaching a stretchy arm out to snag him. “AAAHH!” Spike ran towards the gate and saw it starting to close. “Better run faster,” Varek said. “Ngh!” Spike pushed himself and he jumped as the gate was closing. And the gap was just wide enough to get through while it closed on Topsy's arm. Spike tumbled on the ground and Topsy was closed behind the gates. “NOOOOOOOO!” Topsy cried as Spike fled into the portal. YOU ESCAPED! Spike tumbled onto the ground and panted heavily before getting up. “How was the carnival?” Varek asked sarcastically. “Ugh…” Spike sighed as he slapped the contract down on the desk. “Hmm, and the nose?” Varek asked. Spike put that on the table as well. “Good good,” Varek tossed the nose to his dogs, “You're doing better than I expected,” Varek said. “Thanks…” Spike said. “Hey less for me to do, now you have ten more, and still a day and a half,” Varek said with a grin. “What?” Spike asked wondering why he was smiling. “Oh nothing, next I want you to play with someone,” Varek said. “Oook?” Spike asked not knowing what he meant. “Did you ever play with dolls?” Varek asked. Next time: Amidst a red background a shadowy being with long curly hair a dress and a bow. She seemed to have strings coming out of her fingers and she was giggling as she continued to play around. And suddenly…. She turned towards you and asks… “Wanna play with me?...” Coming soon. Author's Note Bit of a shorter one, whew these are getting harder and harder. Any questions feel free to ask
Play with me... forever...“Dolls?” Spike asked. “Yeah, this next one is about a girl who is so obsessed with dolls that she became one, and now anyone who enters her domain becomes her dollies,” Varek said. “....Can we skip this one?” Spike asked not wanting to deal with that. “No,” Varek said. “Alright,” Spike sighed as he turned to the door but Varek spoke. “Don’t you want your second power?” Varek asked. “Second?” Spike turned back to him. Vareks's hand glowed again, and Spike felt power enter him. “You now also have the power to teleport, use this wisely,” Varek said. “Ok,” Spike said not wanting to ask him why anymore and he entered the portal. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Play with me… forever… ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike exited the portal and found himself in what seemed to be a void. “Huh?” Spike said looking around before spotting a big pink dollhouse, big enough for him to enter. There were fake bushes and toys everywhere around the void like a messy room. “What fresh hell is this?” Spike asked. “Ha,” Varek chuckled, Spike ignored him as he approached the house and knocked on it. The door slid open slowly and Spike hesitantly entered, keeping his guard up. As he entered expecting a cramped space he suddenly found himself in a much bigger mansion-like space. “Whoa,” Spike said as he walked through and saw all sorts of strange things, like dolls everywhere, small and big, some even as big as he was. As Spike walked through the house lobby he suddenly heard child-like giggling and he turned, not seeing anything off. “Huh?” Spike said as he looked around, and suddenly he began hearing child laughter everywhere, behind him sometimes and when he turned it would briefly stop. “Is someone there?” Spike said ready for anything, he wasn't as ready as he thought he was when a little girl's voice came to him suddenly. “Hiya mister! Are you here to play with me?” Spike turned but only saw a stitched doll the size of a human child sitting on the ground. “Where are you?” Spike looked around again. “In front of you silly billy!” She giggled and he turned again to be face to face with the dolls button eyes and stitched smile. “AAAAH!” Spike yelped jumping back, honestly tired of it at this point. “Heeheeheehee! I got you!” She giggled and hopped back so Spike could see her full appearance. She had beige skin made of fabric and a dress that was purple, orange string hair, and a blue bow in her fake hair. She also had blue button eyes and a stitched smile. “Um… hello?” Spike said. "Hi! It's been a long time since I've had a new playmate! I was hoping they'd send a girl, but I can play with boys too!" She giggled. "Um, actually I'm not here for-" Spike attempted before she cut him off. “Oh oh let’s play house first!” She giggled as she ran over to a corner opened a toy box and dug through it. “Um, actually I am here for-” Spike attempted again but it was like she wasn't listening. “Here! You be the daddy and I’ll be a mommy!” She said bringing a smaller dollhouse over. “I’m not here to play I’m-” “You don’t wanna play house? Ok! Let’s plaaaaaaaay…. Tag!” She squealed and she tagged him before running. “Hey! I need to talk to you!” Spike said chasing her trying to get her to listen. “Yay! Play play!” She said as she ran with seemingly limitless energy. Spike slowed eventually and she danced where she stopped. “Nyah! Your slow!” She giggled. “Look! I’m low on time, I need-” “Let’s play something else!” How about dolls! I love dollies! I have a huuuuuge collection, and-” “SHUT UP!” Spike said at his wits end with her cutting him off and she quieted. “Sorry… I’m sorry, but I’m stressed as is with my family in danger, I’m here to collect Vareks contract,” Spike said hoping she'd listen this time. “.....Oh…. well of course you're here for that…” She said with a frown. “Yeah, so if you could just hand it over I-” But Spike was cut off as the doll girl walked up to him somehow with a bitter expression. “Of course, you're not here to play with me! They NEVER are!” She growled. “Hey, sorry, but I-” Spike attempted but she stomped with surprising force. “No! NONONO! I wanna play! And like it or not, we’ll be friends forever! Play forever! AND YOU WILL BE MY DOLLIE!” She said as she suddenly began rising into the air, Spike backed away seeing she was doing so with strings coming out of her feet, lifting her into the air like tendrils. “It’ll take some work… but I can make a dollie out of you just like the others, your good friend Darla the Dollmaker is here to help…” She said as the buttons turned red. “Uh oh!” Spike ran as she extended her hands and hooks came out of her fingertips and they shot out on strings to snare Spike who managed to avoid them up until he was halfway up the stairs before several hooked strings snared him and dug into his flesh. “Ow!” Spike grunted as she pulled him back towards her. “Needle in the eyes, listen not to ask why’s, I’ll leave him in stitches, playtime is my riches!” She sang as she dragged him back to her. “No! What do I do?!” Spike said. “Try the teleport, just think about teleportation,” Varek said. “O-ok!” Spike thought about the teleport power and suddenly he teleported out of the hooks and at the top of the stairs where he stumbled but looked surprised. “HUH?! Hey! That’s cheating!” Darla growled and she lashed her strings out again. But Spike ran away through a door and escaped. “No no no!” This isn’t how it's supposed to go!” She yelled from the other side of the door. “Screw that!” Spike said as he ran into another part of the house and saw shards. “Get collecting, unless you fancy being her doll for the rest of time,” Varek said. “No way!” Spike said as he ran into the next hallways and collected shards, he noticed these were scattered instead of grouped up “Are there less here?” Spike asked. “Yep, she likes to preserve her dollies,” Varek said. “Ugh,” Spike said uncomfortably, as he ran past some of her other dolls, some of which were bleeding, now understanding he ran on hoping to avoid their fate. Spike collected a few more shards and ran into a dining room before Darla came into the room and saw him. “There you are!” She said as she whipped her hooked tendrils at him and Spike ducked them and fled into a room with a TV in it with a giant sticker on the screen. “This place is all fake!” Spike said as he had to step over some more corpse dolls. “Shut up! Fake isn’t a word here!” Darla shouted as she chased him using her tendrils like tentacles to carry her. Spike jumped over a railing and landed on the ground before fleeing deeper into the mansion. “WHERE ARE YOU?!” Darla shouted as she lost track of him. Spike ignored her and collected more shards and ran into a room that looks like it was designed for tea parties. With her dollies lined up in their chairs. “Eugh!” Spike said not liking the sight before he fled into another hallway, where he ran into Darla who took the chance to wrap him in her strings. “You're mine now Dollie!” Darla laughed before she opened her mouth revealing sharp teeth behind the strings and she swung her hook claws at him. 3 Lives left: “Darla wants to play…. And she’ll never let you go…” Varek taunted. Spike wasted no time and made his way out of the lobby as soon as he woke up. He saw the entrance to the other side of the mansion and he took it. As he made his way through several hallways he heard an exclamation behind him and he continued running as he heard her behind him. “GET BACK HERE NEW FRIEND!” Darla screeched as she swung her hooks at Spike’s back but Spike stayed ahead of her. Just as Spike thought he was going to get away he suddenly felt a hand grip his head and his eyes widened as he glanced back to see she had detached her arm, connected by strings, and she was grabbing his head. “HAHAHAHA! Tag! You're it!” She said as she dug her claws in. “AGH!” Spike grunted and he decided to jump through a window to get away from her and he ended up pulling her with him. “Whoa!” She exclaimed and they landed in a pool. Spike swam to the surface and pulled out the hooks with cries of pain as he made his way out of the pool with Darla swam after him. “You're being mean!” She yelled in a whining tone. Spike ran as soon as he was on dry land and he booked it down a corridor leading into a dining room. With corpse dolls in each seat. “Get out! I haven’t set the tea yet!” Darla demanded as she chased him on her strings. “You're insane!” Spike said as he avoided her hooks by teleporting out of the way and she accidentally smashed a table against the wall. “NO! Look what you made me do!” She growled as she chased him into the kitchen and he ran around collecting shards as she tried to grab him. Spike ran into the next room but his wet shoes made him slip and he fell over a railing. “I GOTCHA!” Darla said as she lashed a string around Spike's neck. “NO-” SNAP 2 lives left: “Guess she plays a little too rough for you,” Spike sighed as he sat up in the lobby and he stood up, he just had his neck snapped... how much more will he have to endure before this is over... “I’m really tempted to give up…” Spike said feeling the weight of this whole situation on his shoulders… he’s literally going through hell! Spike fell to his knees. “Maybe it’d be better if I just-” “No… Don’t give up!” A woman's voice called to him. “Huh?” Varek? Was that you?” Spike asked. “What was me? Stop wasting my time and get moving,” Varek said impatiently. “O-ok…” Spike sighed, must have been his nerves… Spike made his way to the right this time and he peeked around a corner, looking for Darla. He saw the creepy doll girl skipping by. “Lalalala! Happiness to me happiness to you, when I catch you your existence is through!” She sang. “She still scares me….” Spike muttered before he ran on once she vanished. As Spike made his way down the west hallway and collected the spaced-out shards he ran by a room with dollhouses in it. Spike moved on and found another set of shards in another hallway, but heard a screech and turned to see Darla swinging across the gap between them using her hooks. “Wheee!” She exclaimed. “Crap!” Spike ran on as she landed behind him and she opened her stitched mouth and sent strings to snare Spike's legs. “Ah!” Spike fell down. “Heeheehee! Now you are mine!” She said as she brandished her hook-like claws. “No. I’m. NOT!” Spike grabbed the strings and yanked hard sending her stumbling to the floor. “You meanie!” She lunged at him and landed on him and began stabbing him with her claws. “GET OFF!” Spike yelled as he wrestled with her, she was stronger than she looked! As she raised a hand Spike caught it. “I’m gonna get you, I’m gonna get you!” She sang. Spike’s family flashed to mind and he yelled before reaching up and grabbing one of her button eyes and tore it out. “GYAAAAH!” She screamed falling back. Spike got up and backed away as she stood back. “You….. GIVE IT BACK!” She looked at him and he was shocked to see an actual eyeball underneath where her button eye was. “What are you?...” Spike asked. “A dollie… THE BEST DOLLIE EVER!” Darla said as he limbs detached and extended on strings before bigger hooks came out of her fingers. “Huh?” Spike backed away. “Hope you're happy… I’m so mad I’m just unraveling at the seams now!” Darla laughed maniacally and she chased him on all fours. “AAAAH!” Spike teleported out of her strings still holding him, turned, and fled from her. Spike ran into another room and collected shards as she came after him like a mass of strings and hooks. “I’M GONNA MAKE YOU MINCE MEAT!” She bellowed. Spike ran into another room with dolls dangling from strings from the ceiling and he made it into the lobby again through a side entrance. As he looked around Varek spoke. “The safe is located, check that room full of dollhouses you ran past earlier,” Varek mentioned. “Ok!” Spike said and he hurried back into the hallways as Darla pursued him. “DOOOLLLYYYY!” She screamed at him as she pursued. Spike made it down the hallway, his good sense of direction leading him to the room with the dollhouses and he shut the door behind him. “OPEN THE DOOR!” Darla shouted as she bashed on the door. “Which one?!” Spike asked. “Just start smashing!” Varek said. “Ok!” Spike began breaking dollhouses. “W-what are you doing in there? STOP!” Darla cried. Spike eventually found the safe in a pink one and he pulled it out, Varek broke it open and he claimed the contract. At the same time, the door came down and Darla saw the destruction. “No…YOU FILTHY HUMAN! I’LL TEAR YOUR LIMBS OFF!” Darla screamed as she lunged and Spike dodged it by teleporting and fled for the exit as she chased him with a feral scream. “NOT GOOD NOT GOOD!” Spike said as he ran from her as she swung her hooked claws at him. Spike rounded the corner and entered the lobby and bolted for the exit. As he broke through the door and bolted through the void for the portal Darla pursued him through the void as well. “FRIENDS DON’T DESTROY OTHER FRIENDS STUFF! I’LL KILL YOU!” She bellowed. “Almost there!” Spike cried and he saw the portal and he jumped for it as Darla reached for him. And her hooks narrowly missed him as he went into the portal. “NOOOO!” Darla exclaimed. YOU ESCAPED! Spike tumbled into the office panting heavily. “Could you stop landing on my floor like that? You're starting to make dents,” Varek sighed. “Varek… I don’t know how much more I can handle… please, can’t I just do half?” Spike asked. “I’m afraid not, I have a quota and image to uphold,” Varek said. “LISTEN-” Spike was about to yell but a voice came to him again. “Calm yourself… I know you can do it,” The woman's voice said. “I’m listening,” Varek asked smugly. “...Nevermind…” Spike said with a sigh and he handed Varek the contract. “Good choice,” Varek said before taking out another cigar and lighting it “Now listen, next up we have a trip to a more… relaxing environment,” Varek said. “Relaxing?... In hell?” Spike asked. “Maybe not the way you know it… how are you with gardening?” Varek asked. Next time: Amidst a red background a short shadowy being with a pointy hat and a pickax was standing there, completely still as the sounds of a forest echoed in the background, and then as it looked like nothing was going to happen… he looked at you. “Heheheheheheheee!” a mischievous voice giggled. Author's Note Can you guess the next monster? Sorry about the late update, some stressful stuff was happening.
A grievous garden“I have a rather mischievous group that’s been ducking me for quite a while, deal with them,” Varek said. “What are they?” Spike asked knowing at this point to expect anything. “You’ll know them when you see them, I should remove one of your powers and give you another second power,” Varek said. “Wait, remove a power?” Spike asked. “Yeah, do you think a mere human is capable of holding more than two bits of a supernatural power like this in their body? No,” Varek said. “Great…” Spike sighed “I’ll trade teleportation then,” “Ok,” Varek swapped his powers with a glowing hand and Spike felt the new power entering him. “Your new power is to sense demonic auras,” Varek said. “Sense them?” Spike asked. “Yes, detect the hidden monsters, it may prove invaluable here,” Varek clarified. “Ok,” Spike nodded and he turned to leave. “Good luck, you’ll need it,” Varek laughed as Spike ignored him and went into the portal. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A grievous garden ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike exited the portal and found himself in a long tunnel and he looked ahead and saw what looked like a forest ahead. “Oook, what could be waiting for me in there?” Spike asked as he walked hesitantly down the long tunnel, as he made his way out he saw something on both sides of the tunnel. “Wait a minute… are those garden gnomes?” Spike asked as he saw the jolly four-foot tall pointy hat-wearing dwarfs staring out into the distance blankly but with happy expressions. They were holding signs too, Spike decided to read them. “Enter these forests if ye dare, not everything is as it seems… odd,” Spike said after reading it. “Don’t tell me I’m honestly dealing with demon gnomes am I?” Spike chuckled wondering how this place could be so serene despite it literally being a part of hell. “You’ll find they're deadlier than they look,” Verak said as Spike walked on. “What are they gonna do? Kick me in the shin?” Spike asked as he entered the forests and made his way through without any major problems. As he exited the forests he saw what looked like a garden entrance. “Hard to believe this place is a part of hell,” Spike said. “Just keep moving,” Varek said with a sigh and probably an eyeroll. “Ok,” Spike made his way into the garden… ignoring any of the signs warning him not to enter. As Spike made his way into the garden he heard a growl and he turned to see a shape dart behind a tree. “Huh?” Spike said as he saw this, hesitantly he approached and peeked around the tree… and saw a fake gnome. “Heh, alright,” Spike could see where this was going and so he made his way into the garden area, seeing flowers and statues. “If I do end up in hell this particular place seems relaxing enough,” Spike said. “You idiot… you should know…” Varek sighed. “Know wha-” Spike suddenly grunted in pain as he felt something cut his leg and he saw a shape dart into the tall grass. Looking at his leg he saw a minor wound on his leg that looked like it came from a knife. “What the-” Spike grunted again as something struck him in the back and he turned to see it was a rock. “Heeheeheehee,” The small voices cackled. “Starting to regret my words,” Spike said as he felt many eyes on him, he hurried on to an area that had shards, but also many gnomes planted around the place. “A-alright, no problem,” Spike began stepping around them carefully, collecting shards and watching for any of them moving around… but it was odd, none of them looked like living gnomes… wouldn’t they- “AAAGH!” Spike yelled and he turned to see what looked like a pick ax lodged in his leg “W-what the-” Spike looked up and saw a gnome looking at him with a sickening grin full of ugly sharp teeth. It immediately sprung off the ground and tackled him down and raised its pick to kill Spike but Spike caught it and threw the small man off. “What the heck!?” Spike got up and saw the gomes around him were still inanimate but the one he tossed ran off. “Still think this is a walk in the park?” Varek said smugly. “Ok fine!” Spike began hobbling away, looking for a place to dress his wound when he heard more cackling and he looked to see more gnomes looking his way than before. “Wha- ACK!” Spike cried out and looked down and saw a thrown pick had landed in his chest, he fell to his knees as the pain was too much. Then he heard rustling behind him and saw several gnomes rushing out of the tall grass pickaxes and skinning knives raised. “No…” Spike croaked as they tackled him down as a group and began stabbing him. 3 Lives left: “You should have paid more attention, fool,” Spike got up at the garden entrance looking shocked and feeling his chest, seeing no stab wounds. “You're welcome,” Varek said. “...Thanks…” Spike said as he got up and made his way to the garden again. He began to look like he was losing it a little… so much dying… the pain… how much more can he handle? “I’d start using that aura sense,” Varek suggested. “Right, you did say I had that,” Spike said wishing he remembered that sooner, doing what he did with the teleportation he focused on the sense and he saw multiple gnomes light up with a red aura. Others didn’t. “So they were hiding among fakes,” Spike said. “Yep, keeps you guessing,” Varek said. Spike made his way around and this time he made sure to use his sense power more. As he made his way through the garden area, collecting shards he stepped around several gnomes that were not so subtly watching him. “I didn’t even get a chance to ask if I could have their contract,” Spike said as he avoided getting too close to another one. “Would they have been likely to listen?” Varek asked. “Doubt it,” Spike said as he made his way onto a rocky path and he made his way down it collecting shards and making sure to walk around every gnome he saw on the road while keeping an eye on them.. “Heehee!” a voice laughed and Spike turned to see a couple of gnomes abandoned post and ran for him. “Crap!” Spike ran for it as the two chased him down the rocky path. Spike ran over another arching path and made his way onto a rocky bridge where he tripped. Spike got up but turned and saw the gnomes gaining on him with their pickaxes raised. “Tch!” Spike saw a chance and dodged a swing from one and he kicked him back. The other jumped at Spike but he ducked it grabbed the other gnomes pickaxe and swung it into the head of the other gnome. And his head shattered. “Huh? Their not even flesh!” Spike said before turning and smashing the other gnome. Spike stood back as he saw the pieces of the gnomes on the ground. “Alright, two less to worry about,” Spike said. “Not quite…” Varek said. “What?” Spike said… before they gnomes rebuilt themselves “WHAT THE?” Spike exclaimed. “Their demons, in hell, mortals cannot kill demons in hell, remember?” Varek said. “Crap your right,” Spike dropped the pickaxe and fled as the gnomes angrily ran after him gibbering and growling. Spike fled into a forested area where there were more gnomes and he continued running until he found a tree to hide behind. He hid until he saw the gnomes run past. “Whew…” Spike used his aura sense to see if there anymore live gnomes near him. And there weren’t where he could see. So he got ready to move- Drip drip… Spike froze when he felt saliva drip on him and he looked up, seeing at least five gnomes in the trees. “Of course, they can climb…” Spike said before running for it. Spike ran as fast as he could from his smaller foes but the chase through the forest led him towards the two that passed by earlier who turned and saw him. “OH-” Spike didn’t get a chance to curse as another gnome leaped out of the bushes and tackled him knocking him down. They then ganged up on him and swung their pick axes into his body as a group. 2 lives left: “Oh come on, it can’t be that hard to outrun someone two and a half feet shorter than you!” Varek said. Spike got up and sighed as he saw he was fine… physically at least… “Spike, you may want to get moving, I think they’ve figured out where I deposited you,” Varek said. “O-ok,” Spike said as he ran on, and he made his way around the multiple gnomes stashed all over the place and collecting more shards. “I take it back, this place really is hell,” Spike said as he ran. Suddenly three gnomes broke off from where they were standing and they chased him. Spike fled into an area with a gazebo and he ran onto it and past it, as the three gnomes chased him into the next area, grabbing shards as he ran. Spike fled into some treelines and hid again, this time using his sense to see if any gnomes were waiting to ambush him. There weren’t. Spike saw the gnomes had lost track of him and they left. Spike made his way through the treeline, hiding occasionally, and keeping track of his environment and he saw more shards in a tall grass area. He ran over and started collecting them. When he felt another scrape against his leg and he cried out before looking to see his bleeding leg and he looked around and saw the tall grass rustling in several areas, and movements closing in on him. “Not good!” Spike said as he frantically ran for it from the shapes moving in the tall grass and he made it to the grassline before bolting away. “Those shards were the last ones, I know where the safe is but your not going to like it,” Varek said. “I don’t like anywhere here! Where?” Spike asked. “Head back into the treeline you were in and head down it,” Varek said and Spike did so, upon making it to the area Spike ran into the treeline and past it, as he ran through the tree area he eventually came to a giant statue. A huge statue of a giant gnome, surrounded by tall grass. “Great, more tall grass, can this get any worse-” Spike said before the statue's eyes glowed and it looked down at him “....Those words are cursed…” Spike said as he took a step back as the giant statue raised his giant pickaxe and swung it down. Spike yelled as he jumped out of the way and the pick rammed deep into the ground. “The safe is at the base of the statue,” Verak confirmed. Spike got up and hurriedly ran into the grass as the statue tried to grab him with its other hand and missed. Spike ran on but heard movement around him and he saw several more gnomes darting in the grass and Spike knew he was being surrounded. Spike ran up to the statue who raised a foot to step on him and Spike jumped out of the way as the massive foot smashed down and Spike ran up to the safe which Varek broke open and Spike claimed the contract. BBBRRRROOOOOMMMM came a loud rumble from the statue as its eyes turned red and it swung its hand and struck Spike sending the man flying over the grass and into a wall. “OW!” Spike grunted as he hit the ground, looking up he saw the gnomes exiting the grass with glowing red eyes, purplish hats and skin, and they were foaming at the mouth. “I’m guessing I made them mad…” Spike said. “Yeah,” Varek said as they swarmed after Spike who struggled to get up as they were closing in. But he managed to stand and run away. Meanwhile the statue broke away from its pedestal and began chasing him as well. “COME ON!” Spike said as he ran back out into the garden, he saw what looked like an army of gnomes leaving their posts and running at him. “Tch!” Spike ran to the left and went around the group as they chased him as a horde. Meanwhile the statue swung its giant pickaxe down and missed Spike a few times. Spike ran back up the entry pathway and saw the gnome from behind the tree run out and throw its pickaxe which landed in Spike’s shoulder. “AAAAGH!” Spike grunted but he pressed on and ran back through the forest, the giant gnome chasing after him and tearing through the trees while a horde of smaller gnomes swarmed past the gate. Spike limped on and made it to the tunnel, but when he thought he was home free the gnomes stationed at the tunnel entrance suddenly rushed at him. Spike managed to dodge one but the other latched onto his back and wrapped its smaller arms around his neck and began squeezing. “ACK! Agh!” Spike choked but he still pressed on even as the statue gnome plunged its pickaxe through the ceiling of the tunnel multiple times. As Spike was starting to lose consciousness he was almost at the portal and a wall broke down as the statue broke open a hole in the ceiling and reached through to grab him. Spike's sheer willpower helped him avoid it and at the moment he lost consciousness he fell forward into the portal. YOU ESCAPED! Spike woke up in the office area and sat up. “Oh no! How long have I been out?!” Spike asked. “A few hours,” Varek said. “WHY DIDN’T YOU WAKE ME!?” Spike demanded. “Do not take that tone with me, or else, I’m not your babysitter,” Varek warned. “What about-” Spike heard gnawing noises and he turned to see the gnome he brought with him being gnawed on by Varek’s dogs. “Well, you should get moving, time has passed,” Verak said. “...Ok,” Spike growled a little, knowing that he had no choice and he approached Varek’s desk. “Alright, next you're going to the zoo,” Varek said. “What’s there?” Spike asked. “Heheh, you're in for a treat this time,” Varek said. Next time: Amidst a red background a tall and large shadowy figure was standing there, his form was hard to discern but he seemed to have tusks and flipper-like arms and legs and he was holding what looked like a large chainsaw. And he was mumbling a song something over and over. “Tralalala, make more animals make more friends…Heheheh…” Author's Note Warning, the next chapter is pretty dark.
Slothful business“Let us move on, I have a particularly lazy individual who won’t get me the contract, find him and make him pay, with this new power,” Varek said waving his glowing hand. “What is it?” Spike said. “A barrier in exchange for your sense ability, now move it, I have little patience right now,” Varek said sounding frustrated. “Fine…” Spike said as he made his way to the portal. “And don’t come back without the contract,” Varek said. “I know…” Spike said as he entered through the portal. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Slothful business ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike made his way through the portal and saw he was standing in front of an electronic gate in a large building. “Hell has tech-” “Oceans remember?” Varek said. “Oh yeah,” Spike sighed and he continued on, going up to the door and he didn’t notice a laser trap that when he walked through it an alarm went off. “Huh?” Spike said before a camera came out of the wall and looked at him. “Can I help you?...” A slow and tedious voice asked. “Um, yes, can you please get me your boss on the phone,” Spike asked. “.....Nooo…” The voice droned. “What? Why?” Spike asked. “I’m too tired to reach for the intercom button, and frankly he’s never willing to come out of his penthouse, so-” “I’m here on behalf of Varek!” Spike called and the voice paused. “On second thought… I’ll get him,” The voice said and the camera left, two minutes later another one on the opposite side of the gate came out. “Yeah? Whaddya want? I hope this was important enough to interrupt my game for-” A nasally voice sneered over the camera before Spike spoke. “Varek,” Spike said simply and he heard a spit take on the other side. “V-Varek? Where?” The voice demanded. “He’s not here, he sent me, look I just want the contract and-” “Aw come on, he said I had a few weeks left! How long ago was that?” Spike heard the voice ask someone else, then a voice responded and he did another spittake. “A few weeks ago?! Why didn’t anyone tell me!?” He demanded. “Sorry Louie, you didn’t want to be disturbed,” The voice said a little more clearly this time. “You useless-” Spike’s eye twitched as he listened to this banter before he called out. “HEY! My family is in danger I need to get moving! So please just hand it over,” Spike said. “Hmmph… sure, fine whatever… come up and get it, I’m not making the trip down there,” The voice known as Louie said and the gate opened. “Thank goodness, someone, willing to-” Spike said as he walked in before a bullet ricocheted off the ground in front of his foot and he jumped. “Dang it! The sights off!” He heard Louie exclaim. “Aaah!” Spike cried diving behind cover as more shots hit the ground he was standing in before. “When will you learn boy?... Demons don’t play fairly,” Varek said. “Good to know!” Spike said as he noticed something bouncing near him and he saw a grenade. “Tch!” Spike ran away as the bomb blew up, looking up he saw the attackers were turrets on the front door with cameras attached. Spike ran around a corner and saw more turrets looking at him, he hid again as a few more shots nearly got him. “Where’s the shards!?” Spike asked. “There are none,” Varek said. “What?” Spike asked for clarification. “You're in the circle of sloth, Do you think the denizens here are active enough to actually collect soul shards? They mostly just put others to work so they don’t have to,” Varek explained. “...Makes sense,” Spike said before he peeked around the corner and a few more shots missed him. “DARN IT! Why didn’t the sights on these turrets get fixed?!” Louie demanded. “...I’m too tired too…” Another voice said. “Ugh, you're so lucky slapping you requires movement,” Louie growled. “This place almost sounds like it’ll be easier, I mean the monsters are too lazy to come after me,” Spike said. “They have their ways,” Varek said with a chuckle. “How-” Spike heard doors opening. “Suddenly the door the turrets were guarding opened and a floating chair came out. “Huh?” Spike said seeing what looked like a sloth on a chair. “Ugh, I hate work…” The sloth said. “Stop whining and take care of him!” Louie demanded, over the camera intercom. “Ok ok…” The sloth drove the flying chair towards Spike who poked his head out. “This guy doesn’t seem so threatening,” Spike said. “Trust me, I am…” The sloth said before slowly pressing a button and suddenly the arms of the chair opened and guns came out. “Oh no…” Spike got up and ran back around the corner as the sloth opened fire on him. “Please just die so I can go back to reading…” The sloth drove after him. “Aaah!” Spike ran as the sloth rounded the corner and fired at him, Spike took cover around a corner below the cameras guarding the front door. “Just cornered yourself… whatever…” He mumbled as he pressed the joystick forward and drove towards Spike’s position. “What do I do!?” Spike exclaimed as he rounded the corner. “Alright… let’s get this over with…” The sloth pressed another button and the chair aimed a bomb launcher at Spike. “Oh no, what do I do?!” Spike asked. “Ugh, do I need to keep bailing you out boy?... use your barrier!” Varek sighed exasperatedly. “Ok!” Spike used his barrier power just in time as the sloth fired on him and an explosion occurred. “Dealt with…” He said before widening his eyes in shock seeing Spike was still there with a barrier around him, not only that he accidentally blew a hole in the door. “Go on,” Varek said. “Alright!” Spike turned and ran inside. “....Ooops…” The sloth said. Spike ran down a hallway and found himself in what appeared to be a factory, making strange things, like the chair that the sloth was using. And the workers were sloths as well. “I didn’t think the sin sloth meant it literally…” Spike said. “HEY!” Spike turned to see a camera looking at him “How did you get in?! Workers!” Louie ordered and they turned towards the camera “The one who kills him gets to take a break! DO IT!” Louie said and the workers looked at eachother and nodded before climbing in their chairs and driving towards him. “Why is it never easy!?” Spike said as he ran towards a staircase as they all fired on him. Spike took cover at the top of the stairs as bullets riddled the walls. “YOU IDIOTS! HE’S UP THERE!” Louie exclaimed. “Sorry…” They said as they drove their floating chairs up the stairs after Spike. As they made their way up to Spike, Spike took the opportunity in the cease-fire to run across the catwalks. “Where is the safe?” Spike asked. “In the top floor of this place, where Louie is,” Varek responded. “Ok- AAAH!” Spike fell as one sloth shot a rocket and it blew up the catwalk sending Spike falling. 2 lives “Wow, you died to a literal sloth, how embarrassing,” Varek chuckled. Spike came to on the ground where he landed and he got up but when he looked he saw the sloths rounding a corner and taking aim. “Crap!” Spike rolled behind the cover as they opened fire on him. “Better move,” Varek said. “I will!” Spike said as he looked for a way out of this, and saw a path deeper into the production area and he got up and ran when there was a ceasefire. Spike ran for it and made it to a conveyor line, Spike vaulted over it avoiding the path of another rocket and he ran on. “Is there an elevator? Or stairs?” Spike asked. “I’m not holding your hand every time mortal, figure it out,” Varek said as Spike ran on. “Thanks a lot…” Spike said as he paused behind a machine looking around for any threats. When Spike looked at the other side of the factory he saw an elevator. “Alright,” Spike said as he got down low and snuck his way over there. Spike continued sneaking and he hid under a conveyor line when a sloth drove by, using vanish to keep hidden. “Uuugh, work…” The Sloth sighed. “Almost there,” Spike said as he saw a chance and he crawled over to the elevator and opened it. Unfortunately, this drew the attention of the other Sloths and they began driving over. “Get him…” The sloth up from said but in a non-intimidating way. “C’mon c’mon!” Spike frantically pressed the button over and over again until it closed. Spike gave a sigh of relief as the elevator went up and he waited as the elevator arrived on the second floor. As Spike poked his head out and he stepped out and he made his way out towards a hallway that led to a fancy door. Spike carefully made his way to the door and he cautiously opened it. As he opened it bad smells came from within and he winced but he looked in and saw something unsettling. A large fat caterpillar-like monster with folds of skin and he was laying on a sofa… which was also floating… “This is the weirdest hell yet,” Spike said. “Agreed, the safes over by Lazy Louie,” Varek said. “Ok,” Spike snuck over and peeked over the massive caterpillar creature and saw the safe under his armpit. “HEY!” Louie said in his nasally wheezy voice. “Uh… yeah?” Spike asked. “If you're here to… give me my chips, just leave them on the table next to me,” Louie said. Spike knew there was no way to get the safe from around him so he decided to snatch it, he ran out in front of Louie who, despite being a lazy guy, reacted quickly and covered the safe with his fat arm. “HEY! Waitaminute, you're that guy that wants to rob me blind and get me kicked out by that jerk Varek!” Louie wheezed as he spoke. “...Yes, please, I need that contract, my family-” “Don’t care, you take my contract, I’ll need to get a job again! I’m not working at that horrid fast-food restaurant again, those cannibal psychos wanted to eat me every shift!” Louie said. “Varek will feed my children and wife to hellhounds!” Spike exclaimed hoping he was sympathetic. “Cry me a river, look bud, Louie looks out for number one,” Louie said. “GIVE IT!” Spike tried to grab the safe but Louie shoved him back, with his greater size. “Ugh, stop making me move so much, it's tiring,” Louie said. Spike looked up and he ran at Louie again but Louie picked him up and threw him to the ground. “Get lost buddy, I have video games to play,” Louie said. “How do I get it? This tub of lard won’t budge,” Spike complained. “One thing I know about Louie is that he hates movement, he’s that lazy,” Varek said. “I get that but-” Spike paused and got an idea “Hmm, alright,” Spike then used vanish again. “Huh? Where did-” Suddenly Louie was smacked in the face “Ow! Hey!” Louie swung his hand out but he was smacked again and again from different angles and Louie began getting frustrated and he started swinging his arm around trying to hit his invisible opponent. Louie began to yell in anger and when Spike stood in front of him visible again he tried to grab him only to accidentally fall out of his chair exposing the safe. “Ooof!” Louie grunted “Aw man, now I gotta get up!...” Louie complained. “Sorry about this, but I won’t let him hurt my family,” Spike said as he grabbed the contract out of the safe and tried to leave. “NOOO! WAIT!” Louie cried and Spike paused “If you give him that, I’ll lose everything! Please!” Louie pleaded. “....Cry me a river, my family comes first,” Spike said as he ran out of the room. “NONONO!” Louie struggled to his many feet and he began a gradual chase of Spike “That contract is miiiine!” Louie chased Spike down the hall and Spike ran from the giant caterpillar but paused when he saw the elevator open and more sloths entered the hall. “There he is…” The sloth up front said as they all aimed their guns. “Waitwaitwaitwait! Don’t shoot you nimrods, I’m in the line of fire!” Louie said. “Sorry boss,” The sloths said. “....I got one chance,” Spike said glancing out the window and he ran for it. “NOOOO!” Louie lunged and missed Spike and Spike fell to the ground, using a barrier to soften the landing and he got up and ran for it. “That little!” Louie cursed after him and he turned to the sloths “Well?! Stop him!” Louie demanded. “....But that’s so much work,” The Sloths sighed. “.....Note to self, get less lazy employees next time…” Louie slumped over sadly. Spike made it back to the portal without much else to worry about. YOU ESCAPED! Spike stumbled through the portal and panted before slamming the contract on the desk. “Fantastic, you're surviving much longer than I expected,” Varek said picking the contract up and sliding it into his desk drawer. “That one wasn’t hard at all to be honest, I hope the rest are like that,” Spike said. “Do not get cocky boy, the circle of sloth is easy to survive in, compared to the others at least, but this next one should shatter your confidence,” Varek said “What now?” Spike asked. “Do tell, how are you with cold?” Varek asked. Next time: Amidst a red background a huge shadowy being with a bald head and a stocky body, huge arms and he seemed to be wearing an apron. He held out something that looked like an ice cream cone and said in a deep voice. “Ice cream….you scream… we all scream… for ice cream…” He sang in a quiet tone. Author's Note It's a bit of a small chapter, this was probably Spike's easiest one yet, helps that in the circle of sloth, everyone is lazy. I decided on a more lighthearted one to ease the dread for some people but trust me, things go back to dark after this chapter.
Cold hearted/ An alluring offer“I can handle it, why?” Spike asked. “The next place is an ice cream factory in the circle of gluttony, there’s a weirdo there who owes me a contract, go there and take it,” Varek said. “Do I need a coat?” Spike joked a little but he just looked at him unamused “Ok…” Spike sighed before turning and leaving through the portal. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Cold Hearted ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike exited the portal and noted the humid environment immediately, he looked around and saw what looked like landscapes of nothing but desert everywhere, and yet in front of him, there was an ice cream cone-shaped building in front of him. “An ice cream parlor?... In hell? Really?” Spike asked. “You’ll see,” Varek chuckled as Spike made his way up to it and saw the neon sign saying ‘Frosty’s frozen yogurt, get it while it’s cold!’ sign. “....This place keeps getting weirder…” Spike sighed. “Get moving, I’m getting bored,” Varek said and Spike went into the building. …Immediately it went from scorching sun to meat locker in a second with the temperature. “Brr!” Spike said feeling cold all of a sudden, as he walked in he felt like needing a coat. “Why is it so cold in here?” Spike asked. “Because it’s where hell froze over,” Varek said. “I’ll get it over with now,” Spike made his way over to the counter and ran a bell. It took a few times but he heard a deep voice from the back. “I’m coming!” He said and Spike nervously stood there before the door opened and he saw a towering mountain of a man with a face reminiscent of a caveman walking out of the doorway, he had to be nine feet tall! “Whoa,” Spike said as he approached. “Aaaahh, new customer, hello little customer, I’m Frosty Franky, what can I get you?” He asked resting his beefy arm on the counter. “Um… h-hi? I um, I’m not here for ice cream,” Spike said. “Not here for ice cream? Why else would you come to my business?” He asked with a raised brow. “...Veraks contract, and before you get mad, I have a time limit so please just hand it over,” Spike pleaded. “.....My contract?.... Oh no, no no no! If you take that, he’ll run me out of business, tell Verak to come here himself and we can negotiate,” He said. “That’s non-negotiable, please save me the effort, please,” Spike said. “Hmm…. oh, I got an idea, you do something for me, and I give you the contract, hmm?” Franky said. “S-sure, whatever gets me somewhere warm sooner,” Spike said. “Hmm? Warm? Warm is bad, makes Franky sweaty, and ruins ice cream,” Franky complained before walking out from behind the counter and leading Spike to an elevator. “Can I trust this guy?” Spike asked. “....What do you think?” Varek asked. “Right…” Spike sighed before he entered with him and the elevator went down. As it went down Spike saw they were passing by a frozen area, and he saw other people, other mortals working on making ice cream, despite the fact they were clearly freezing and miserable. “Wow, this place doesn’t seem to have happy workers,” Spike said. “They have to work, it's their job now that they're in hell, and they get NO breaks, so ice cream is always available,” Franky said with a smile. “This guy is sick,” Spike thought “How come you aren’t cold?” Spike asked. “I don’t get cold, I am cold-proof,” Franky laughed as the elevator arrived and he walked out, Spike following and watching for anything out of the ordinary. As he was walking he noticed something else, small critters that looked like ice cream cones with arms and legs and little faces on them. As cute as they were, he didn’t trust them, why should he given where he is now?... Spike followed Frosty Franky through multiple rooms, and it only got colder as they went in. “D-do you have a sweater or something?” Spike asked. “Nope, I hate warm,” Franky said as he walked. “That isn’t good,” Spike said as they made their way into a hallway to their left and saw a room with a single purple ice cream cone. “Hehehehehe, there it is, our newest flavor, berry boom! Taste it and I’ll give you the contract,” Franky said. “...It’s poisoned isn’t it?” Spike asked. “What? You dare insult my craft!” Franky bellowed angrily. “Sorry sorry!” Spike said as he backed into the room and he picked it up and tasted it to avoid a beating…. It actually taste good? I had a weird texture and second flavor he couldn’t place, but it tasted like berries! He smiled as he tasted it some more. “Wow, not bad actually,” Spike said. “Yay! I made it right, and it only cost me one slave,” Franky said out of the blue. “....What?” Spike said. “Yep, hope you enjoyed my slave puree, it's yummy,” Franky said. “....Slave?... Is that code for something?” Spike hoped. “Nope, threw him in the blender for a few minutes to make sure it wasn’t chunky, and the berry does a good coverup taste so I-” Franky was cut off when Spike gagged and dropped the ice cream. “YOU MADE AN ICE CREAM MADE OF PEOPLE?!” Spike exclaimed. “Yeah, what’s wrong with that? When the sinners die from the cold they don’t serve any other purpose, much more profitable than collecting soul shards, especially in the circle of gluttony,” Franky said with a cackle. “You… sicko! What sane person would eat that?” Spike said. “How dare you?! I’m the best ice cream man ever! And just for that, the deals off!” Franky growled. “N-no! I-” Suddenly he closed a big door trapping Spike in there “NO!” Spike ran up to the door and banged on it as Franky stood on the other side laughing. “Gonna leave you here until you freeze, then I’ll make you ice cream,” Franky chuckled. Let me out!” Spike banged on the door before shivering as the cold was starting to get to him. “Gettin real cold now ain’t it?” Franky said. “I gotta get out of here,” Spike said as he looked around and saw a vent, it was too small though… but an idea came to mind. “Oh look! A vent! I’ll escape through there, vanish!” Spike disappeared and ran over to the vent and opened it. “What?! No!” Franky opened the door and ran over to the vent to stop him, not realizing he’d been had and Spike made his way over to the door and ran out of there. “Thank god this ice cream man isn’t smart,” Spike said as he made his way out of there and back into the hallways. “The shards are further in, not many but there,” Varek said and Spike ran on, shivering. “I gotta get out before I freeze to death,” Spike said as he hurried and found Shards scattered in the big hall and some leading to other hallways. Spike made his way down a hallway to start and proceeded to collect shards as he snagged some more shards he encountered one of the ice cream creatures. “What does it do?” Spike asked. “You might want to run, before he blows up,” Varek said. “Blows u-” Spike questioned before the Ice cream creature suddenly jumped at him and exploded, but not in fire but some kind of icy aura that felt like he was covered in ice cubes. “Brrr!” Spike grunted as it felt like his body temp went down. “They're called frost imps, they lower your temperature by blowing up,” Varek said. “G-g-good to k-know!” Spike got up and ran on collecting shards, as he ran through a hallway that looped around he saw several more imps making their way towards him. “Crud!” Spike tried to turn and run the other way but more came from that side too and they all simultaneously blew up. 2 lives left “Ice scream, you scream, you keep screaming, until you become ice cream,” Varek taunted. Spike woke up outside the halls he was in and he felt warmer now before he was forcibly frozen to death, but still cold. Spike got up and ran for it, not wanting to go through that again. Spike ran on through the area and collected more shards, when he saw more imps exiting a hallway and running at him he changed direction and fled into another hallway and he dodged down the hallway to his right when one imp tried to jump onto him. As Spike made his way down that hallway and encountered an area where more slaves were making ice cream. “Huh? Who are you? Please hug me for warmth!” The sinner begged. “I’m being chased!” Spike exclaimed. “Please! I’m so cold!” He cried as Spike continued fleeing from the ice cream imps into another hallway. Spike ran on into a looping halfway and came to a fork in the halls when he saw more imps coming down that way, he ran down the other way and found more sinners on the other side of the lower pathways. “I NEED WARMTH!” One reached out for Spike but he avoided them. “Just one minute of hugging! Please!” Another reached for him but Spike avoided him too. Spike ran up some steps to his right when he saw them and got back on the pathway above him and he ran from the ice cream creatures. Spike made his way down the pathway and found the remaining shards but a familiar foe got in his way. “YOU TRICKED ME!” Frosty growled as he took a swing at Spike who ducked and ran around him. Frosty grabbed an imp and threw it at Spike and it detonated on him making him colder. “AGH!” Spike grunted, shivering as he tried to ignore it but Franky laughed as he threw another at him and it hit Spike, and made him colder, he began to slow down and then Franky pelted him with more until he felt his body going numb. He reached out and grabbed the last shard before collapsing and Franky walked over. “You’ll make a fine frosty cone… heheheh,” Franky picked up Spike and punched him with his huge arm. 1 life left “Sheesh, I can hear your teeth chatter from here,” Varek said. Spike got up back near the exit. “Out of tries, last chance mortal,” Varek said. “Tell me where it is,” Spike said. “Seems he hid it under his cash register on the surface floor,” Varek said and Spike nodded before heading back to the elevator and opening it, as he went in he saw the elevator closing before suddenly a pair of hands grabbed the doors and forced them open. “YOU'RE NOT LEAVING,” a frenzied Franky said before he tried to get in. “CRAP!” Spike used his barrier and ran up to wedge himself between the elevator door and the exit, Franky roared as he pounded on the barrier but then Spike, who was panicking, did the only thing he thought to do… he ran up as the barrier was dissipating and he drove his finger forward and into Franky’s eye. “AAGH!” Franky stumbled back clutching his bleeding eye as the door closed and went up. “Hah…hah… did we make it?” Spike asked. “You're not out until you get in the portal,” Varek said. “Ok,” Spike said as he ran out of the elevator and he hopped over the counter when he got there, he saw the register, and below it was a safe, Spike waited until Varek opened it and he retrieved the contract… before a door slammed open and Spike turned to see Franky stomping up to him. And his eye was healed too… great… “I’M GOING TO GRIND YOU INTO ICE CREAM FILLER WITH MY HANDS!” Franky said before grabbing Spike and throwing him over the counter and against a wall. Spike got up but Franky vaulted over the counter and picked Spike up before raising him up and slamming him through another table, he then picked up Spike again and slammed him on the counter, and dragged him around it knocking stuff off before throwing him and Spike tumbled on the ground. Spike tried to crawl towards the exit but Franky grabbed him by his leg and dragged him back before picking him up and slamming him against a wall. “Heheheheh, iiiiice cream, yoooou scream,” He spun and tossed Spike to the ground “We allllll scream,” He put a foot on Spike’s chest and raised a fist “For ice cream!” He was ready to swing down with his fist. ….”I’ll protect you,” A voice said before Spike looked up, hearing that familiar voice… and then suddenly a bright light filled the room and he paused and looked up. “Huh? What’s this?” Franky said shielding his eyes and… and then suddenly a glowing figure rammed Franky off of him and sent him flying into a wall. Spike looked up weakly as the glowing figure extended a hand. “Your family needs you Spike, go!” She said. “Who are you-” Spike was cut off as he saw Franky getting up and running at them, the glowing figure tackled him back, somehow overpowering him. “GO!” She said. “O-ok!” Spike said as he managed to get up and he limped his way to the door and he made his way back out into the desert, the dry heat almost a welcome feeling again as he made his way back into the portal. “NOOOOOO!” Franky cried as he tried to chase Spike but the angel teleported in front of him and he paused. “You're breaking the rules!” Franky growled. “So be it,” She said before she disappeared as Spike had escaped and the portal vanished. “NO!” Franky cried. YOU ESCAPED! Spike stumbled back into the room, and saw it was empty. “Huh? Varek?” Spike said looking around. “Oh, your back…” Varek said as he came back with papers in hand and he sat down at his desk and sighed. “What?” Spike asked. “I was busy, the none of your business kind of busy,” Varek said before he held out his hand and Spike gave him the contract. “I am sending you on your next task immediately,” Varek said. “Why immedi-” Spike questioned but Varek slammed his hand down startling him. “Do NOT question me, I am dealing with multiple headaches at once right now, take this power for faster running, it’ll get this over with faster,” Varek said using his magic immediately to replace Spike’s barrier power with speed boost “Now get moving,” Varek said. “Fine…” Spike said not wanting to argue and he made his way into the portal. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- An alluring offer… ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike made his way out into what looked like an alleyway. As he looked around he saw gates on both sides of the alleyway and the only notable thing in the alley was a glowing neon sign that mentioned a club of sorts. “The Glowing Moon?” Spike read it, as he got closer he saw a big burly man with his face hidden standing there. “Hnngh…” The man growled at him. It almost sounded like a dogs growl…. “U-uh, hello, I am here on behalf of-” Suddenly the man stuck out his hand and Spike flinched a little as he did, he suddenly gestured he was to give him something. “Um… what?” Spike asked. “Hnngh!” The man growled again and pointed at his hand. “I don’t-” Spike paused and saw a sign behind him. “Marked human tickets must be handed in on entry?.... What?” Spike asked. “A marked human is a human who was sent to hell and has been marked for a certain place in hell, You're not one, since your time isn’t up yet,” Varek explained, though he still sounded annoyed for some reason. “Ok,” Spike said before turning back to the guard “Look, I’m not a ‘marked human’ I’m here on behalf of-” “HNNGH!” The man growled shoving Spike back. “Hey!” Spike got back up “I’m trying to say I’m here on behalf of-” but once again the big man picked him up and slammed him against the wall before growling in his face. “Can you speak?” Spike asked a little nervously. The creature growled and raised a fist, getting ready to hit Spike and Spike held up his arms in defense. “Varek! I’m here on his demand!” Spike exclaimed. “....” The man paused… and set him down before walking back to his spot and gesturing for him to go on in. “Ooook,” Spike said carefully walking around him and hurrying along when he got through the doorway. As Spike made his way through a bunch of dangling beads he eventually found his way into a club room. There was a bar, a series of tables and a stage for some reason. Spike carefully made his way across the club wondering where he is. “Is this a-” “No, but trust me, you shouldn’t stick around… there’s a reason this place has new customers everyday, all of them mortal, and don’t sit in the seats,” Varek warned him. “O-ok,” Spike knew that threat was real by now and so he looked around. Eventually, he approached another mortal who was drinking. “Hey… um, do you know who runs this joint?” Spike asked. “Shaddup, I’m drinkin here,” He slurred. “Oook,” Spike went to a couple women who were laughing. “I need to-” Spike didn’t finish as they waved him off. Spike attempted several times to get help but nobody paid him any mind. He began to get frustrated. “Why isn’t anyone helping me?” Spike asked. “Are you forgetting what kind of people end up in hell? They got no reason to help, not to mention what their drinking is making them complacent,” Varek said. “Ugh, luckily I quit drinking when I got the money,” Spike sighed and he looked around some more before he spotted a guy who was laughing by himself. …Spike made his way over to him, getting a feeling, he tapped his shoulder and he turned to see Spike. “Hey! Here to enjoy the show?” He asked. “No I’m here to find the boss,” Spike said. “Eh, good luck, she’s not one to talk to us dregs of existence, she’d rather dance,” He said. “Who’s she?” Spike asked. “Calls herself Mistress Moonlight… Or just Moon for short, she’s quite the babe, too bad all we’re here for is for her to perform for and then there's… the bad part of this place…” He said. “What do you mean?” Spike asked. “Sit down, you're stuck, drink and you're made a complacent little slave, look at and listen to her… and you can’t stop,” He said. “What?” Spike said and suddenly he heard a ringing noise and he turned to see the door at the back of the stage which had two burly guards standing in front of it. And it opened, and out came- “...Rarity?...” Spike gasped. “Who’s Rarity?” The man hiccuped, clearly drunk. “M-my wife,” Spike said as he saw her, she was unmistakable, her flowing bluish purple hair, he whitish skin, her beautiful blue eyes. “Huh… didn’t know you were married to Mrs Moon,” He huffed taking another swig. “Hello my darlings…. Ready for another song before the feeding? Because I’m sure you're all hungry for more of me!” She declared before she started singing to a cheering crowd. Her voice… it was so melodic that Spike could feel himself slipping into a trance- and then he snapped out of it. “Huh?” Spike realized he now had earplugs. “Better to not listen to her siren song,” Varek said. “Varek… why is my wife here?” Spike asked. “Figure that out for yourself,” Varek said. Spike went to go onto the stage where the woman resembling his wife was dancing and singing when two guards got in his way. “Out of my way, that’s my wife!” Spike said. “Hnngh!” The guard grabbed Spike and shoved him to the floor. “Agh! Let me through!” Spike got up and threw a punch but it glanced off the body of the burly figure like a fly against a brick wall. He then picked Spike up and tossed him down again. Spike tried to get up but he felt it grab his head and lift him up. As it was about to punch him he heard through the earplugs her voice. “Easy now boys, I’ll take care of him, you begin the prep,” She said and the two grunted and walked away. Rarity stood over him looking down at him. “My oh my, what have we here?” She asked with a smirk. “Rarity…” Spike stood up and stared at her but he was unsure “Is that you?” Spike asked. “Guilty as charged,” She said playfully. “H-how… why are you down here? What about Lance? And Scout?” Spike said. “They're fine, everything’s fine dear,” She said. “Rares… what’s happening?!” Spike demanded. “Let’s just say, not everything is what it seems, one second,” She said before she got up on the stage again and announced. “Well! Now wasn’t that a wholesome song wasn’t it? Well, boys, feel free to begin, I’ll see you all when you get back!” She waved before she hopped down. “What?” Spike questioned. “Oh it’s just the feeding,” She said dismissively. “What feeding?” Spike asked. “Theirs,” She said with a smirk and suddenly Spike heard a scream and he turned to see a guard was attacking the ladies from before, eating them!? “HUH?!” Spike said before he heard a cry to his right and he turned to see a guard biting into the flesh of the guy he was talking to earlier. All around Spike he saw the guards devouring the people. “RARITY!? What is happening?!” Spike demanded. “Oh don’t worry, they’ll resurrect eventually, and it’ll all happen again, and again, and again, and again…. Hahaha! Isn’t it wonderful?” She chuckled. “You… you're not Rarity! She’d never approve of this!” Spike said angrily. “Oh, you caught me,” She said mockingly “Yes, I am actually a demoness who changes to what a person perceives as their ideal partner, and the fact you see your wife with no edits, you're a rare breed indeed, among humans at least,” She said with a smile. “...I came on the behalf of Varek, times up,” Spike said wanting to leave, now. “....” Suddenly the burly guys paused and looked at Spike. “Huh?” Spike said. “That name isn’t well liked around here, he’s just a debt collector trying to up his rank in hell so that he’ll be second to none, personally though, I’m satisfied where I’m at,” She said as she sat on a table in an alluring way. “Well… I still need that contract, and stop wearing my wife's face,” Spike demanded. “Oh don’t be so mean, here’s another idea…. You give up this errand of yours, and join me?” She asked. “What?” Spike said. “Think of it, you’ll sever you-know-who’s strings and still get someone like your wife… but better in every way, you can be free of this journey of yours and you’ll never have to worry or want for anything ever again,” She said lying on a table. “....You know about-” “Of course I do, word travels fast in hell, a human outdoing demons left and right on behalf of him, it's intriguing,” She said. “....” Spike wanted to accept knowing that his suffering will be over…. But the images of his family being killed by that demon Varek… he couldn’t let it happen! “I refuse,” Spike said “My family needs me! Now give me your contract!” Spike said. “....Truly incorruptible….. Fascinating, I love a challenge,” She giggled before flipping off the table and brandishing something before swinging it at Spike. Spike just noticed that he had a cut on his face and he realized she used a barbed whip of sorts. “Boys, we have some tricky prey here, capture or kill him, preferably capture him,” She smiled. And the guards growled before removing their hats revealing they had the faces of bulldogs. “What the?” Spike backed away. “My loyal dogs, sic him!” Moon ordered and the guards descended on him. “AAAHHH!” Spike ran for it but he wouldn’t make it, but he had asked enough times to remember that he had a new ace. He triggered his speed boost and ran past the guards and over to a trash chute and he jumped down it narrowly avoiding a guard who reached in after him. Spike arrived at the bottom of a dumpster. He quickly climbed out and looked around. “Ugh… great, now I smell,” Spike said. “Clever boy, better get moving, Mistress Moonlight will be after you,” Varek said and Spike nodded before running up a hallway and making his way into a series of corridors. He found the shards quickly and began collecting them. As he ran around collecting shards he found there were more bunched up than the other places. Spike ran around a corner and grabbed another before he saw something coming at him from the other side of the hallway. A guard! Spike ran the other way and narrowly avoided another guard as he ran past a fork in the hallways. Spike made his way out into the back hallways as the guards barreled after him, just as he thought he was getting away suddenly a wall came down and another guard came through. “WHOA!” Spike evaded a grab from this dog guard and fled on through the building. He knew it had recharged by now so he used his speed boost and ran away faster, losing the guards in the process and collecting more shards. “Whew! I think I’m going to like this pow-” Spike ran full-on into another guard who grabbed him by his neck while he was trying to get up and snapping it. 2 lives left: “Next time watch where you're going maybe,” Varek said. Spike woke up by the dumpster and sighed as he got up and cracked his neck. Spike then made his way through the halls and made his way down the other side, using his speed boost to collect more shards and he kept his eyes peeled for any sudden guards. Spike ran on but as soon as a guard broke through a wall and went after him he skidded to a stop and ran the other way, he turned a corner and fled down that way before vanishing to disappear from sight. “Hnngh?!” The guard looked around for him. “Spiiiiike, you wouldn’t rob me would you?” Moon's voice echoed over the intercom. “Stop using Rarity's voice!” Spike thought angrily as he continued collecting shards around the lower floors. Eventually, Varek contacted him as he used this strategy to hide and run. “Seems like you're getting the hang of this boy, you’ve cleared the lower floor, now for the upper,” Varek said. “Ok!” Spike found a staircase and he saw a guard going down it so he used invisibility to sneak under him between his legs and get behind him without him seeing. Spike made his way to the upper floor and found himself in a secondary club. With more people just chatting around. Spike ignored them and ran on collecting shards. As Spike entered a place with what looked like machines people were playing on Spike ran around them and collected shards, knocking one guy out of his chair. “HEY! WATCH IT!” He yelled after Spike. “Sorry!” Spike called as he ran on. Spike ran into another area and saw more guards rounding the corner and spotting him. “Vanish!” Spike disappeared and made his way around them. Spike made his way down some stairs and ran into a bar, he ran into that area and collected the shards. When he turned around he saw guards blocking the exit. Spike got an idea and used vanish again. The guards got ready for him to sneak past but instead, Spike grabbed the lemon wedge out of a guys drink and squeezed it over his hands and he then snuck up to the guard and flung lemon juice in his eyes. “GRR!” The guard rubbed his eyes as that happened and Spike took the chance to sneak past and run away. Spike made his way through an area with poles for dancing when he saw some guards searching for him, he got down low in the crowd there and snuck past them as they walked past. Using the crowd Spike managed to get out of that area. Spike made his way through another bar area and collected the last few shards. “Good work, I sense the safe is located in the surface floor, you better move too,” Varek said. Spike looked around and saw guards coming out of rooms left and right. Their eyes red and their mouths foaming. “Tch!” Spike ran down the only way they weren’t and fled from them as they chased. They weren’t being careful here either… They began smashing aside people and walls they ran across trying to get him. Spike ran out into the area with poles as the guards came after him. “Where do I go?!” Spike asked. “Head straight,” Varek said. Spike made his way through and ran on ahead and spotted a staircase. Spike ran up the stairs while the guards barreled after him up the stairs and he made it through some strung-up beads and he saw the main showroom. He spotted the safe sitting meticulously on the stage and he ran over and collected the safe and removed the contract. Spike made for the exit but then a whip grabbed him by the neck and yanked him to the floor. Spike got up and saw Moon standing there. “Here I was hoping we’d be friends,” She pouted before she swung the whip and Spike ducked it, but the whip snared a chair and she tugged back and the chair hit Spike sending him stumbling. “Tch!” Spike said. “What do you think awaits you at the end of all this?” Mistress Moonlight said. “My family is safe,” Spike said. “Hahahahahahaa! Varek won’t keep his promise, he stands to lose alot of credibility if he lets you off the hook,” Moon said. “No, he promised!” Spike said. “Grow up, a promise, is just words,” Moon said before she lashed Spike again sending him into a table, she grabbed him with her whip and flung Spike into the arms of a guard who shoved him back in. Spike stumbled around her and threw a punch but it didn’t affect Moon who just smirked. “Hitting a lady? And I thought you were a gentleman,” She chuckled before she grabbed him and threw him onto the stage. She hopped up on there with him. “Care to dance before you die?” She asked. “Just… don’t wear my wife’s face while killing me,” Spike said. “Oooh, alright,” She said mockingly before she turned into him “I find you dying like this more ironic anyways,” She said as she raised the whip. “Thanks… now I can do this!” Spike suddenly activated his speed boost and he suddenly rammed her and took her off her feet and rammed her through the exit. “AAAGH!” She grunted as he slammed her against the alley wall. Spike struggled to his feet but she had returned to Rarity’s form and chuckled. “So, this is how it ends for my club, just know, Varek will never keep his end of the deal,” Moon chuckled. “....” Spike got up. “Deep down, you know as long as he has you under his thumb, your screwed,” She said before laughing. “...” Spike turned and ran down the alleyway as guards were exiting the club to chase him, but with a speed boost, he was out of there. YOU ESCAPED! Spike stumbled through and panted. “Not bad boy, I am beginning to wonder if you have potential as a debt collector,” Varek chuckled. “I plan to return to my family after we’re done,” Spike said. “Yes… indeed, so moving on, we are low on time, so let us begin another,” Varek said. “Fine, what?” Spike asked. Did you ever get involved with the police? Next time: Amidst a red background a giant shadowy being wielding what looks like a massive baton stood there, he had a chain around his chest and a police cap and you can hear his deep breathing. Also in the background you can hear police sirens Author's Note A surprise double-level feature, and expect another soon. Spike is making progress, but will he really be able to defeat hell to save his loved ones?
Police brutality/ A new friend is 'made'“You're going after the police,” Varek said. “...There’s-” “YES! If theirs something in the human world, likely hell has a version of it, enough with that question!” Varek sighed. “Ok ok! Sorry,” Spike said. “In any case I gave a larger than yours amount to a group of demons who had this hair-brained idea that they could emulate human world cops, to torment those who were incarcerated before death, but they seem to think they above paying, show them their wrong,” Varek said. “Ok,” Spike said as he turned and left through the portal. “...Heheheh, too bad he doesn’t know this group has a really big enforcer,” Varek chuckled. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Police brutality ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike exited the portal and found himself outside of a police station. “Ok, what’s waiting for me in there?” Spike asked as he walked up to the place. …Not noticing he’s being watched… “Code red… he’s here, alert Zeke,” The being in the bush said into a walkie-talkie. “Affirmative,” The voice said back. Spike made his way up to the building and peeked through the window. He saw a normal lobby with someone sitting at a desk. “Good so far,” Spike said before turning around… and getting a nightstick to the face knocking him to the ground. “Hah! Got you myself, guess Zeke doesn’t need to get his hands dirty after all,” the police uniform-dressed person said, his skin was grey like Varek’s but his eyes were red. “Van-” Spike didn’t finish as he beat him some more with the nightstick. “You're under arrest! For trespassing!” He kicked Spike onto his back and climbed on top of him. “Don’t worry buddy, you’ll be going away for the rest of your life!” He laughed before hitting Spike in the face and knocking him into a daze. Spike’s vision was bleary as he was being dragged by his shirt into the station. “Hey Ricky! I got him!” He said. “Not my fault if Zeke beats you up for stealing his prey, Brad,” The cop stationed at the counter said getting up and walking over. “Why hello there, we’re your new friends for life, get used to it,” He then kicked Spike in the face and Spike hit the ground. “If you got a million dollars we can let you off the hook!” The two laughed as they dragged him through a jail area and then Spike heard rumbling noises and a huge blurry figure entered his view. “He a new prisoner?” A dull sounding voice said. “Uh, yeah, but he…. Tripped on his way in, sorry Zeke,” Brad said. “Aww…” Zeke sighed. “Hey cheer up big guy, we can put him in interrogations later and you can wail on him to your heart's content,” Ricky said. “Sounds good!” Zeke said sounding content with that as he left. “Heheh, thank goodness he’s stupid,” Ricky said as they dragged Spike and tossed him into a jail cell and tossed him in. “Wake up…” A familiar female voice said and Spike opened his eyes and sat up. “Huh? You're up earlier than I expected,” Brad said as he stood by the cell “Go on, eat, you’ll need your energy when Zeke beats the hell outta you, heh,” He laughed as he set the food down outside of Spike’s cell. Bread and a potato… “Thanks…” Spike reached out for the food… before a pee stream hit the food. Spike winced in disgust as he saw a dog he hadn’t seen before peeing on his food. “Hah! Good boy Rover!” Brad laughed as he and his hellhound left. “...” Spike silently cursed them with every curse word he knew and he sat back in his cell. “Well? Aren’t you going to leave?” Varek boredly said. “How? I’m trapped,” Spike said. “Giving up? After all this? Pathetic,” Varek said. “I’m so tired… so much death, so much pain… I don’t know how much more I can handle…” Spike droned, feeling the weight of this whole situation on his soul. “If you wish to give up, simply say so and I’ll save you and return you home… in exchange for your wife and children,” Varek said, sounding eager to hear a yes. “.....I-” Spike was about to say it… but suddenly a vision came to him… one that erased his doubt. Varek breaking into his home, kidnapping his family, and feeding them to his dogs…. He couldn’t bear the thought… and it sent new strength through him. “No… NO!” Spike stood up and smacked his face to snap out of it “I’M NOT GIVING UP!” Spike said before shaking the bars. “...Hmmph,” Varek huffed. “Hey! Quite down there!” The guard nearby yelled. “NOT ON YOUR LIFE! My family needs me!” Spike said. “I don’t care, shut up!” The guard said walking over. “Then I’m getting through!” Spike backed up, knowing this’ll hurt he got ready… and he speed boost shoulder rammed the door open and busted the jail cell open and sent the guard tumbling. “OW!” Spike grunted feeling his shoulder was dislocated, he managed to reset it and quickly get moving. “Prison break! CODE RED CODE RED!” The guard shouted on his walkie talkie and several guards burst into the area and began chasing Spike. “Vanish!” Spike disappeared and they paused. “Dangit! Where is he?!” They said. Spike snuck through a door and panted heavily… he couldn’t give up, not when his family needed him, he’d been to rock bottom, and he wasn’t about to let them hit it as well! Spike ran from there and made it into another hallway, seeing soul shards he made to collect them while running, as he collected them a camera saw him and an alarm went off. “He’s over there!” A guard rounded a corner and pursued Spike down the pathway. Spike continued running even as several guards got in his way and they blocked him. “Speed boost!” Spike said and he sped up. “Uhm… he’s not slowing down!” The guards readied themselves and Spike wound up blowing past them. “CRAP!” One grunted as he hit a wall. “Heh, why the sudden fire?” Varek asked. “I’m not in the mood,” Spike said as he went on to dodge around a corner and into another hallway. As Spike made his way to the other side of the hall a wall came down and he paused as a hulking monster of a cop came out and stared down at him. He was massive, had a baton as big as he was and a chain around his chest. “Oh crap,” Spike said as he raised his baton. “YOUR UNDER ARREST!” He slammed it down and Spike dodged as the slam broke the concrete. “Yeah! Get’em Zeke!” The guards cheered from afar. “I will break you!” He grabbed at Spike who jumped away and used vanish to disappear. “Huh? Where you go?” Zeke looked around and Spike fled into another hallway where he saw more shards and collected them. Spike made his way down that hall and into another prison area full of cells, as he ran past he noticed other sinners were locked up in cells. He was determined to not end up like them! Spike ran around the area collecting shards, he accidentally triggered another camera, and as he finished collecting all in this area Zeke plowed through another wall and chased after him. “Found you!” Zeke said swinging his baton at Spike who ducked it and fled into another hallway but Zeke was on him. As Spike was making his way out of there he heard barking and saw a few hellhounds closing in on him, he panicked and tried to run past them but they pounced on him and tore into him. 2 Lives left: “I hope they throw away the key when they're done with you,” Varek laughed. Spike woke in his original cell and he wasted no time getting out of there and running back through the area and making his way back through the doors into the lobby. Spike ran past a surprised cop in the lobby. “HEY! Stop right there!” he pulled out a taser and ran after him but Spike rounded the corner and knocked over a potted plant which tripped him up. Spike ran on before a wall behind him busted down and Zeke ran into the hall and chased after Spike. “RAAAAGH!” Zeke swung his giant police baton and smashed another wall in. “Easy Zeke! You trying to bring the whole place down?!” Another guard said. “He evade! I pursue!” Zeke ignored and he plowed through a wall instead of going around it. Zeke chased Spike into a solitary confinement area and Spike dodged down another hallway to his right and evaded Zeke who came around the corner. Spike had been collecting shards the whole time but when Zeke saw a chance he tore a bench out of the ground and chucked it at Spike, hitting him and knocking him down. Spike got up but Zeke did a jumping drop kick that smashed Spike against a wall. 1 Life left: “It’s the stony lonesome for you, amidst an empty graveyard,” Varek said. Spike got up and staggered out of the cell, he forced himself to go on and make his way down to the other side of the jail cells and he heard barking, meaning one thing… “Hellhounds,” Spike turned and saw several running for him, he dove behind a door and blocked it, preventing the dogs from getting through. Spike hurried on through the corrupt police station and made his way into an office area, and he collected the last several shards. “That’s all of them, go to the lobby, the safe is there,” Varek said. “Ok,” Spike made his way down the office area and into the hallway that leads to the lobby. As he entered suddenly a door smashed down and Zeke appeared. “Why you not quit!?” Zeke demanded as he chased Spike. “Speed boost!” Spike said as he sped away from the giant and went around the corner as another officer tried to stop him. Spike ran towards the lobby where two guards were standing and Spike paused. “Nowhere to run now little man, Zeke will find you soon,” They said. “I didn’t come this far for nothing!” Spike said as he ran up to them and one tried to jab him with a taser but Spike caught his arm and managed to wrench the taser out of his hand before tasing the other guy who tried to strike him with a police baton. “Aaagh!” The other guy fell over and Spike dodged a punch by the other demon and tased him too. Afterwards Spike ran over to the desk and went behind it and found the safe in a drawer, he pulled out the contract and ran for the exit. “STOP HIM!” the guards on the ground yelled. And a camera caught Spike leaving the area and an alarm went off. Spike made his way onto the outside of the police station and he was almost to the portal when something leaped out from behind it and punched Spike sending him tumbling. As Spike got up he saw Zeke approaching and Spike hobbled back. “Zeke smash you now, lethal force authorized!” Zeke growled before turning his baton on and it turned out to be a giant taser. “Tch! Vanish!” Spike disappeared and Zeke looked around but stayed close to the portal, he looked around and saw footprints in the dirt. “RAAH!” Zeke swung his arm and struck Spike sending him flying against a nearby police car denting it and knocking him out. “Spike,” Spike woke up quickly and he looked up to see Zeke picking him up and throwing him. Spike tumbled on the ground and Zeke laughed as he walked towards him. “I…can’t lose here, I need to save my family… I need to win!” Spike said before getting up and turning to see Zeke approaching. “You no win this…” Zeke said in his simple tone. “Watch me,” Spike said before he used speed boost to run for the portal and Zeke jumped in front of the portal and swatted Spike aside. Despite the pain Spike rolled to his feet and ran for the portal. “You annoying little-” Zeke raised his baton and swung it down at Spike. “Vanish!” Spike said before dodging and running around him and Zeke swung his baton wildly. Spike got some distance and saw Zeke in front of the portal, turning he saw a dozen cops exiting the building to aid Zeke. “You no get through!” Zeke said. “I will!” Spike said before speed-boosting and running at Zeke who raised his fist and slammed it down but Spike slid under him and jumped into the portal. “NO!” Zeke cried as he tried to jump in after him but the portal closed and he hit the ground. “Aw crap…” The guards said realizing the implications. YOU ESCAPED! Spike handed the contract to Varek who took it with a grin. “Nice work, very nice,” Verak said. “How close are we to being done?” Spike asked. “Two more and you're done,” Varek said. “Alright… How much time do I have?” Spike asked hesitantly. “Five hours, clocks ticking,” Varek said. “...Better than I thought,” Spike said knowing he couldn’t afford anymore passing out, times almost up. “I have a special mission for you, before you leave,” Varek said. “What?” Spike said eager to move on. “That angel that’s been following you around, she’s not supposed to be here, I want your aid in capturing her,” Varek said. “What?!” Spike said. “Yes, bringing an angel down will significantly boost my standing,” Varek said. “No, I can’t in good conscience do that,” Spike said. “Even with your family on the line?” Varek asked with a raised brow. “...No, she’s helped me more than you, give me a chance, I’ll convince her to leave,” Spike said. “Meh, whatever gets her out of my hair,” Varek waved Spike off and he waved him off. “Alright,” Spike left the area and went into the portal. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- A new friend is made ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike made his way into the hallways of what looked like an old factory, looking up Spike saw a sign. “Joy .co?” Spike said out loud. “I remember this crackpot,” Varek said. “Great,” Spike said as he hurried down the hallway, when he got there he saw this cardboard cutout of a pale-skinned woman with orange hair and a blue dress pointing down a hallway. “Great,” Spike said as he made his way down multiple hallways, encountering a cutout each time. He eventually made his way past a window and even though he was on a time crunch he couldn’t help but notice the weirdest thing on the other side of the window. Bunnies, giant plush bunnies were walking around. “....No comment,” Spike said as he walked up to a double door and opened it. Spike saw the woman from the cutout, standing over amidst a series of pathways stationed over machinery. She was talking with one of the rabbits. Suddenly it pointed at Spike and she turned and smiled wide. “HEEEEEY!” She cried in a joyful tone that was like nails on a chalkboard. “Look, I don’t have time for this, give me the contract and I’ll leave,” Spike said. “....HAHAHAHA! Why would you leave? I haven’t given you your own cuddle buddy yet,” She said as she skipped up to Spike. “Look lady, I don’t have time for this, please give it to me,” Spike said. “Nope! Not till you get a cuddle buddy!” She said before curtseying “I’m Joy by the way, and I own this humble little toy factory,” Joy said. “If I get a cuddle buddy will you give me the contract without fuss?” Spike asked. “Sure thiiing!” She sang and she then skipped off towards a doorway and gestured for Spike to go through. “Alright,” Spike said knowing by now this was going to be difficult. But Spike followed her and she ran down the hallways while holding her arms out and making airplane noises much to Spike's confusion. “She's like a kid in an adult body,” Spike said. “Yeah it's kind of her shtick,” Varek said. He continued to follow her until they made it to a window where a plain white cuddle buddy was standing. “All righty mister first let's picture your favorite color mine is pink but also blue,” she giggled. “Yeah yeah,” Spike just clicked the color orange. “Aww you sour puss you didn't even check,” she pouted. “Like I said I'm on time crunch,” Spike said. “Okie come along my friend,” Joy said as she continued running down the hallway like she was flying Spike sighed and followed her down there. After making some distance they arrived and Spike saw his orange cuddle buddy through a window. “Next mister, pick a patch for their stomach, I personally like the flower!” She giggled. Spike rolled his eyes and picked the one that looked like a dragon, because it looked cool. “Hmmm, not what I would have gone with,” She said before ‘flying’ off again. Once they got to the next step she showed it to Spike. “Lastly do you want him to have a decal? I was thinking a necklace or earrings or-” Spike pressed a button that had a symbol for a flower. She drew a prolonged gasp “That’s my favorite too!” She cheered. As she ran over to a doorway and opened it. “Come! Meet your new and last best friend!” She said. “Ok, fine,” Spike said as he walked into the room “Just give me the contract after- CLANG, LOCK “I hate this place…” Spike sighed turning around to see Joy waving at him. “Hiiiii, soooo, problem, I can’t give the contract to you, but I can still give you a cuddle buddy, he’s really excited to meet you,” She giggled. Spike heard a noise and turned… before being slashed across the face by a claw and he stumbled back clutching his bleeding face. “HAHAHAHA! Isn’t that the best part, I just made you design your own killer!” She laughed hysterically as the orange rabbit hopped off the belt having sprouted metal claws. “Tch!...” Spike avoided two more swings from the Rabbit and dodged around it using vanish. “Noooope, no powers will save you here,” She giggled. “Shut up you nutcase!” Spike said as he looked around for an escape and he saw a vent up higher in the room. He became visible again and the rabbit lunged at him but he evaded and jumped onto the conveyor belt before climbing on the machinery. “What are you doing?! NO, stay and get butchered!” She shouted after Spike as Spike pulled the vent from the wall and climbed in. “NOOO! NO NO NO NO! This is not how it goes!” She shouted after Spike as the cuddle buddy couldn’t follow. Spike crawled through the vent as fast as he could but when he got to the other side he found himself in another room and he hopped down. Suddenly a p.a system came on and Spike looked up. “Attention cuddle buddies, we have a big meanie refusing to play with his cuddle buddy, go get him!” Joy ordered. Spike sighed and he ran into a hallway and made his way past several machineries developing more of those killer rabbits. Spike ran down a hallway but didn’t notice what was on the ceiling… a green cuddle buddy, and it descended onto him pinning him. “Agh!” Spike yelped as it moved in to stab. 2 lives left “They wanna cuddle, forever, until you die,” Varek taunted. Spike woke up back in the room and found several rabbits already in the room, he used a speed boost to escape them but they were on his tail and they were surprisingly fast. Spike continued to run until he was sure he evaded them. As he saw his chance to collect more shards he did so this time he paid attention to the ceiling so that nothing could the drop on him again. As Spike ran through the toy factory a door opened and he paused to see Joy standing there. “Heehee! Not letting you leave… ALIVE!” She said before pulling out a knife and running at Spike. Spike used vanish and disappear avoiding a swing for his neck. “Where did you go?!” She looked around while Spike made his way out the door she entered through. When vanish wore out Spike made his way to the other side of the business area. There were more of those demented rabbits on production lines being moved throughout the factory. Spike saw more shards hovering over the conveyors and he decided to climb onto them and he hopped from one to the next, collecting shards, when he suddenly heard noises and he turned to see more buddies jumping down from upper catwalks to pursue him. Spike hurried across the multiple conveyor belts as the rabbits chased him. “There he is! Get him!” Spike looked up and saw Joy on a catwalk above him and several rabbits jumped down to swarm him. Spike hurried to avoid them dropping down on him and he got to the other side of the production line and ran into a doorway as two bunnies tried to charge him from both sides of the catwalk. “You're getting quite used to fighting monsters, eh Spike,” Varek asked. “Yeah,” Spike said as he ran up some stairs while the bunnies clung to the walls with their claws and climbed across them to keep up with him. Spike made his way out onto a catwalk and saw Joy leap from hers and onto his catwalk. “Stop being so persistent! You think you can escape my bunnies?” Joy said as she ran forward and swung her knife and cut Spike on the arm but Spike used this opportunity to grab her arm. What he didn’t expect is for her to lunge forward and bite his arm, drawing blood. “AAAGH!” Spike shoved the psycho off and she got up with blood on her mouth. “Heeheehee! You taste bad!” She giggled as she flipped to her feet. “You're a lunatic!” Spike said getting up as he saw the rabbits approaching from the other side. “Is it that I’m insane? Or the only sane one here?” She snarked before she lunged with her knife in hand and Spike saw the rabbits charging from the other side. Knowing he had only one chance Spike jumped up on the railing and leaped towards a lower catwalk. “Huh?!” Joy exclaimed as she watched him land there and he got up and ran. She snorted angrily and turned to her rabbits “Stop him!” She said as she jumped down after him and the rabbits ran into the doorway to cut him off. Meanwhile Spike ran on through the area, he ran into a series of hallways and ran down a hallway to his right and collected the remaining shards. As Spike rounded a corner and collected the last shard he saw two of Joy’s cuddle rabbits walking by and they spotted Spike so one picked the other up and threw it at him. “Yikes!” Spike dodged avoiding being skewered by the rabbit and he turned to flee… SHULK And ran into another rabbit that shanked him with its claws. 1 life left: “Guess you should have gotten your cuddle buddy in the mail instead,” Varek chuckled. Spike looked up and found himself in the room he was in when he started collecting shards, suddenly Vareks voice came. “That was the last of the shards, but good luck getting the contract,” Varek said. “Why?” Spike asked. “Joy has it,” Varek said. “Great…” Spike said before he climbed back into the vent he used to get in hoping Joy forgot about this room and he crawled back into the room he was trapped in, and he was right, it was empty and the door was open. Spike hopped down and ran out of the room and back into the hallway. As he went back down the hallways that led to where he entered he heard familiar noises and he paused when he saw a dozen frenzied Rabbits cutting him off. “Vanish!” Spike used his trusty invisibility and he ran past the rabbits who were swinging their arms around trying to hit him, nicking him once or twice. Spike made it to the entrance room where once he became visible he looked around. “Heeheehee! I knew you’d come here,” Joy’s voice said echoing around him. “Come out!” Spike said before she suddenly dropped from the ceiling and he turned in time to be pinned down by her. “You're a dummy if you think Varek will revoke your deal!” She said as she swung her knife down to stab Spike in the face but he dodged his head around the stabs and he punched her, she didn’t seem to care as she grabbed Spike by his neck and began strangling him. “Look me in the eye, and feel my JOY!” She giggled manically as she tried to throttle him. Spike was panicking but he spotted that she had cast her knife aside to strangle him, he reached over and grabbed her knife before stabbing it upwards and into her head. She gasped as the knife punctured her brain and she flopped onto Spike dead. Spike rolled her off of him and panted heavily. He then got onto her and searched her, before finding the contract, outside a safe this time on her person. He got up and left when he heard her giggling and he turned to see her standing, knife still punctured through her skull, but she simply pulled it out. “Heeheehee…. That stung a little…” She giggled before she licked the blood off. “Nope!” Spike turned and ran through the doorways as she chased him. Spike ran like heck while Joy ran after him, swishing her knife at the air. Spike ran until his heart felt like it was going to burst, and when he rounded the last corner he saw the portal up ahead. Spike hurried down that way as Joy rounded the corner as well she threw the knife at Spike. “DIE!” She screeched as the knife sailed through the air and landed in Spike’s back. “AGH!” Spike grunted as he staggered. “Ha! I win,” She said. “No… you don’t,” Spike said before he continued limping towards the portal. “No… NO! Stay dead!” She ran after Spike but Spike made it to the portal first. YOU ESCAPED! Spike fell through the portal onto the ground, gasping for air as Varek approached him. “Hmm, seems you have a little something in your back boy, heheh, I’ll get it,” Varek said as he carelessly pulled it out and walked away. Spike was healed but it still hurt alot, and Spike stood up shaking. “Quit your shivering, you made it,” Varek said as he sat back in his chair and put the knife in his drawer. “How many… How many more?” Spike asked. “One, you have one left and only an hour and a half left, better move it,” Varek said. “Ok,” Spike forced himself to stand tall, this was it, he was almost done… “Oh, and you still haven’t talked to that angel,” Varek said. “...She didn’t appear,” Spike said as he turned to leave. “She better,” Varek warned. Author's Note One more level? Sorry about the lower quality, I bet you guys will love the last level
Rotten RapacitySpike marched towards the door, not willing to waste any more time, this was it, the last one, if he failed here, his family was screwed. He would not spend the rest of his life in regret, he had to win! Spike entered the portal. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Rotten Rapacity ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike exited the portal and had to shield his eyes, the glare was so great. When his eyes adjusted, he turned to see something that shocked him. Gold… everywhere! Stacked in mountains, molten gold being poured into holes in the floor, statues of gold. “Wow… just a handful of this stuff could give me enough money to retire early…” Spike said in awe. “You're not here to gawk at Aurum’s gold, you're here to get his contract, remember?” Varek said. “Yeah, you're right,” Spike said as he ran on through the stacks of gold. As Spike made his way down the path of what looked like a temple of gold Spike came to a hallway that showed him the torture of this place. Decaying corpses, still moving, chained to the wall, reaching fruitlessly for piles of gold laid just out of their reach. “Please… one gold coin is all I want,” The carcass begged. “Mine…. It will be mine…” Another croaked. “Gold… gold… gold…” Another one muttered. “Truly a sight, but this is what happens to greedy fools, their greed rotted them and now they are chained for eternity forever having their obsession dangled in front of them, just out of reach…. It's quite amusing,” Varek said with a chuckle. “It’s sickening,” Spike said as he ran past and into a giant room full of more gold and statues, as he looked around he saw more skeletal people struggling against their chains to slake their avarice. To no avail. “Where is-” Spike heard laughter and went around a giant statue to see someone sitting on a golden throne, counting gold coins. “Two million eight thousand four hundred and nine gold coins, Two million eight thousand four hundred and ten gold coins, Two million eight thousand four hundred and eleven gold coins, not enough, not nearly enough!” The being growled in a dark raspy voice. He looked like a mostly decayed being, with exposed golden bones, wearing lots of gold and jewelry, and spikes coming out of his head. “Two million eight thousand four hundred and-” He counted and Spike called out to him. “Hello!” Spike said and he paused and looked at him. “An unmarked human?” He sniffed the air “And no scent of death…. Your living, what are you doing in MY temple, disturbing MY counting of MY money!?” He growled standing up. “I’ll be quick,” Spike held no hope he’d give it over but tried anyways “I need the contract between you and Verak, times up,” Spike said. “......HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!” He broke down laughing and leaped out and landed in front of Spike, now that he was there, he saw how tall this guy was, he was twice Spike’s size. “So… Varek lost his nerve and sent a puny mortal to steal from me?... I won’t, If I give him the contract he'll rescind exactly eighty-nine quadrillion from me!” He said. “Th-that’s more than mine!?” Spike said. “Because I asked for more!” He said “More is better! More is EVERYTHING! I’ll forever add to my gold pile” He said. “Aurum’s gold… your Aurum aren’t you?” Spike said. “Yesss, the personification of human greed, I own everything! Everything is mine! Including the contract, and soon, YOU!” Aurum then tried to grab Spike but he dodged and ran and Aurum chased him. “I WON’T LET YOU TAKE MY GOLD!” Aurum screeched as he swung his claws at Spike who ducked and he wound up breaking a wall. Spike ran into another part of the temple where holes in the walls were pouring an endless stream of gold into a pile, he ran around the pouring gold to avoid being knocked down, he ran into another part of the hallway filled with more people being denied their gold as they were chained to a wall. Spike ran past them and thought he had gotten away when Aurum burst out of a gold pile and grabbed Spike by his neck. “Huh?!” Spike exclaimed. “Where there’s gold, I am too,” Aurum said with a grin showing his rotten teeth, he then slammed Spike on the ground and raised his foot before stomping on his head. 2 lives left “Dead already? Wow, you must be a glutton for suffering,” Varek chuckled. Spike got up at the entrance to Aurum's lair and he sighed. He got up and ran through a doorway to his right, collecting shards and after running down a hallway he saw more slaves being forced to push a giant wheel in circles, churning more gold out. “This is horrible,” Spike said as he left the scene. “It’s hell, what do you mortals expect?” Varek asked as Spike made his way past more chained victims. As Spike made it to a room pouring molten gold into slides to pour down another slide. “This guy is obsessed with gold,” Spike said. “He’s the living embodiment of greed,” Varek said. Spike was about to reply when suddenly gold burst all over the room as Aurum came out. “Get your filth away from my money!” Aurum growled before he lunged at Spike and swung his claws at him. Spike dodged and ran out of the room, collecting shards as he fled, looking back he saw Aurum wasn’t chasing him. Spike knew he was going to ambush him again, so he paused and ran down a hallway with less gold piles. As Spike ran past one Aurum’s arm reached out of it and grabbed his leg tripping him up. Spike kicked his hand until he let go and he got up and saw the rotted being leaving the gold pile. “I’ll gouge out your eyes, they leer at my gold!” Aurum sneered. “I just want to save my family!” Spike said running away. “LIAR! You want to take my stuff, but I won’t part with any of it, not even a single gold coin!” Aurum roared as he chased Spike. Spike rounded a corner and fled down another hallway collecting shards while Aurum burst out of a gold pile, missing him, and diving into another one. Spike ran out into the lower floor of the room with the molten gold slides and he made his way around the molten gold pool. Aurum came out of the gold pool and was swimming after him, Spike exclaimed in surprise and fled faster but Aurum was a surprisingly fast swimmer. “Hah!” Aurum jumped out of the gold and flung some molten gold at him. “AAAGH!” Spike cried as it burned but he ran on and Aurum continued chasing him. “Spike collected more shards and fled into another room with another gold pool, as Spike ran he slipped a little and stumbled, and Aurum capitalized on this by swatting him into the molten pool. 1 life left: “On the bright side, you’ll make a great gold statue,” Varek laughed. “Spike…” A voice said and Spike opened his eyes seeing the angel standing above him. “You…” Spike said but she vanished before he could say anything else. Spike sighed and got up. “How much time do I have left?” Spike asked. “Twenty minutes,” Varek said. “Tch!” Spike knew he had to hurry so he ran for it and collected more shards in the left corridors again. But Aurum was already on his trail. “FOUND YOU!” Aurum said as he jumped out of a gold bucket and swung his claws at Spike. Spike dodged and used his speed boost to run faster around a room and collect shards, leaving just as Aurum entered, and he saw Spike stepping on his gold. “Tch! LEAVE MY GOLD ALONE!” Aurum said as he ran after Spike who slowed down. “No!” Spike said before he got an idea and he scooped up some gold coins off the ground as he entered another room and he turned and saw a pit where slaves were working in. Perfect… “Hey!” Spike turned and showed that he had the coins. “What?! Put those down! THEIR MINE!” Aurum screeched. “Then go get them!” Spike said pitching them over the edge and Aurum jumped in after them. “Had a feeling he was too greedy to ignore that,” Spike said as he ran up some stairs as Aurum climbed out. “You little!” Aurum chased him up the stairs and Spike made it up to the top and he collected the shards up there. Aurum chased him around up there but Spike saw a chain dangling over the pit and he saw a chance and jumped onto the chain and slid down it before swinging onto the ground. “CURSE YOU!” Aurum screamed as he jumped off the ledge and landed on the ground, somehow staying intact. Spike ran out of the room and found the last set of shards in a room full of coins, even the floor was made of them. Spike ran around collecting when suddenly Aurum busted out of a pile and slashed Spike in the arm. “AAH!” Spike cried as he fell down and Aurum stomped at him but Spike rolled out of the way and ran away using a combo of vanish and speed boost. “Tch!” Aurum looked down and saw the blood trail and knew where he was going. He had to stop him! Spike ran back towards the throne room, as Varek told him that’s where it is. Spike made his way to the throne room and saw Aurum standing there. “I WON’T LET YOU STEAL FROM ME!” Aurum said. “Five minute’s just letting you know,” Varek said. “No!” Spike said before he knew he had to go for broke, he activated his speed boost and he ran towards Aurum. “RAH!” Aurum lunged at Spike. Time seemed to slow… and Spike slid under him… and Aurum hit the ground behind him as Spike ran over to the throne where the safe was and he opened it. Collecting the contract. “NOOO!” Aurum screamed going into frenzy and chasing Spike who ran down the halls towards the portal. As the chase went on Spike could see the portal ahead… and Aurum burst out of the gold in front of the portal and he punched Spike back. Spike hit the ground and got up with a bloody nose. “Hahahaha! You’ll never get past me!” Aurum said. “Move it!” Spike demanded and he used vanish but Aurum saw where he was based on the moving gold piece on the ground. He punched Spike back again and Spike became visible. “Give back my contract!” Aurum said. “Please… get out of the way, Varek will kill my family!” Spike pleaded. “No! I want my contract!” Aurum sneered. “Thirty seconds remaining,” Varek casually said. “No!” Spike needed to get past Aurum but how?!.... Then he remembered something on his hand… it’s been the thing that’s kept him going… he’s had it ever since he and Rarity got married. …He had no choice… he removed his wedding ring. “Look! I have something you don’t!” Spike said. “...A ring?...” Aurum’s eyes were locked onto it. “It’s yours, go get it!” Spike turned and threw it. “....” Aurum knew he was being played… he needed to stay… To go get the ring… to stay… to get the ring… he needed to stay… To go get the ring… to stay… to get the ring… he needed to stay… To go get the ring… to stay… to get the ring… he needed to stay!… To go get the ring!… to stay!… to get the ring! HE NEEDED TO- “MIIIINE!” Aurum abandoned his post and ran for the ring as Spike used speed boost to run for the portal. “3, 2, 1” Varek counted down. “NOOO!” Spike leaped into the portal. YOU ESCAPED! Spike made it into the office, crashed into the barrier, and fell. Spike got up and slammed the contract on the desk. “I HAVE IT! I made it, now please let me-... Varek?” Spike looked around and didn’t see the demon anywhere. “Where is he?” Spike asked. “....Oh your back,” Varek reentered the office and looked at Spike with an odd expression, Spike looked at him firmly. “I completed our deal Varek, we’re done… please, let me off the hook no-” “No,” Varek simply said. “...What?” Spike said. “I’m afraid boy… you failed,” Varek said before he shot forward and struck Spike in the stomach hard. “UGH!....b-but-” Spike fell to the ground. “Now, to deal with those other pests, I’ll be back Spike, you two, watch him,” Varek ordered his hounds before he walked away. As Spike's vision faded he croaked out “No…” Author's Note Spike failed, is this the end?...
Road to hell……………………………………….Wake up…………………………….wake up Spike…..... Spike opened his eyes and saw the angel holding him in her arms, he was in a place of light and he winced as it was bright. “Where…” Spike asked. “Safe, for now, but you need to wake up, they need you more than ever,” She said. “What happened?” Spike asked. “You failed to enter the portal in time, Varek is counting it even though you fell short one single second…” She said. “No…. It was all for nothing…” Spike sobbed openly. “...No… not yet,” She said with determination “There’s still a way, but I need to take some risks to aid you in this regard, I believe in you, Spike,” She said before his vision went white. “How do-” Spike woke up “-You know my name?... Huh?” Spike looked around and saw he was still in Varek’s office and he turned to see the two dogs growling at him, looking hungry, but he remembered they were ordered to stay put and not eat him… most likely, yet… Spike got up looked around and tried to leave the room but one of the dogs snapped at him making him back up. “Tch, I need to find Varek,” Spike said. “No need boy, I am here,” Spike turned and saw Varek walking around a corner hallway towards the room… and he was covered in blood… “No…” Spike said in horror as Verak reentered the room. “...What did you do to my family…” Spike asked. “...” Verak simply looked at him dismissively. “WHAT DID YOU DO?!” Spike grabbed him by his shirt. And promptly got thrown against the wall with a mere shove from Varek. “AGH!” Spike grunted as he slid to the ground. “I would ill advise you to touch me like that boy… nevertheless I will say I have not harmed them… yet, I was merely dealing with some miscreants who tried to break in and take back their contracts,” Varek said. “....I don’t understand… I was only a second late… can’t you look the other way this once? I did so much for you!” Spike said as he got up. “I’m afraid not boy, the deal was made and you failed… again, I was generous enough to give you the chance to win, you surprised me though, you managed to steal back all my contracts that the other demons refused to return, so look at the bright side, you made me smile,” Varek chuckled as he made the blood vanish off of his suit with a snap of the fingers and he gestured for Spike to follow him. Spike stood in defiance and Varek looked back at him. “Shall I leave you with my hounds to feast on instead?” Varek asked. “....fine,” Spike said despondently as he followed Varek. For the first time he left the office and went into the area outside and he saw multiple shadowy beings working on computers. They seemed to be working endlessly and seemed exhausted. Spike ignored them however and he walked on with Varek further into the building. Looking behind Spike saw both hounds following him… likely in case he runs away. “Where are you taking me?” Spike demanded. “You're angry with me aren’t you boy? You wish to kill me now so that I cannot harm your family is that it?” Varek asked out of the blue. “Of course I’m angry with you! I did all that only for you to-” “I know, but as I said before, it is merely business, you see, in hell, your position in the hierarchy is everything, there are even levels to determine ones influence in this realm of torment, I am a greater level four demon, one of notable influence,” Varek said. “And the other demons I faced?” Spike asked. “Two, lesser three at best,” Varek chuckled and Spike felt nervous, this guy must be quite strong then if levels also mean power “So I would refrain from trying to be the hero, it’ll save the cleaning crew some time,” Varek said with a sickening grin. “....I still don’t know where we’re going…” Spike said. “No need to worry, We’re here,” Varek opened the door and gestured Spike in. Knowing he didn’t have a choice Spike walked in and smelled something horrible as Verak walked in as well. “I simply wanted to show you an example of why I am feared among my brethren,” Varek chuckled as he snapped his fingers and the lights in the room flickered on. Spike noticed something out of the corner of his eye and looked…. He wished he hadn’t… he REALLY wished he hadn’t… Corpses… of all his previous enemies were strewn about in a lobby area… From Chipper Rippers to Aurum, they were all… dead. “I think I’ll keep the room like this, it’ll serve as a decent warning for any who attempt to stiff me from now on,” Varek chuckled. Spike wanted to look away but he couldn’t… he looked to each one and saw how they died. There were several dead Chipper Rippers and Phil was laying against a wall, his lower jaw ripped off and a chunk of his head missing. Several cultists were ripped apart and Dalso’s head was split down the middle. Topsy was lying against another wall with the side of his face smashed in and his right arm was ripped out. Darla is just a pile of strings and buttons with her bow on top. There were several gnomes in several areas… their pickaxes stabbed into their heads. Kruger had been split wide open with his own chainsaw. Louie was hidden by his chair but there was blood all over it. Frosty Franky laid on the ground with his head ripped open. Moon was decapitated with her own whip. Zeke laid against a wall covered in scratches and his own nightstick shoved down his throat. Joy was laying on the ground with her own knife stabbed into her neck. And Aurum was simply torn to pieces. Spike stared at the individual gory scenes with horror… and vomited on the floor. “Thanks for that, now I’ll have to clean that up…” Varek sighed. “Y-you….t-they all…” Spike said. “They thought if they teamed up and attacked me as a group they could get their contracts back, how naive,” Varek said. “I-I-” Spike suddenly heard chuckling and he turned to see Moon’s head chuckling. “Hee…heh…heh…” A voice croaked and Spike saw she was grinning at him. “I told you… this would happen…” She chuckled. “Still not dead yet? Hurry and die, you’re souls will be repurposed later, but they won’t take a living demon,” Varek said looking annoyed at her clutching onto life. “You're… a monster… a genuine monster,” Spike said. “A demon,” Varek said checking his watch “So tell me boy, are you as confident now?” Varek asked. “...Take me instead…” Spike pleaded. “Hm?” Varek said. “I got you their contracts, let me make one request, take me instead of my family,” Spike said tearfully. “.....No,” Varek said. “Why?” Spike asked. “Because we made a deal, deals are law here, I gave you an out and you still didn’t make it, I’ve given you a chance too many, especially with an angel getting involved, you never did find her again didn’t you,” Varek said. “I-I” Spike attempted. “Not that it matters, I’ll find and deal with her soon, first, I will end you for wasting my time,” Varek said as he held up his hand and it sharpened into claws. “.....Forgive me… Rarity… Lance…. Scout… I did my best…” Spike said looking down as Varek raised his claw. “Heheheh, take this to heart boy, never… deal with a devil,” Varek said before swinging his claw down to decapitate Spike… And a glowing hand caught his. “Hm?” Varek looked up and saw the angel standing there “There you are, I was waiting for you to show up, I nearly had to kill him to get you to show yourself,” Varek said. “I was preoccupied,” She said before she raised a hand and blasted Varek with a beam of light sending him flying into a wall. His hounds growled and lunged but she blasted them away as well and then grabbed Spike who looked at her in shock and they disappeared. “....Heheheh, so we’re playing this game now… alright,” Varek said as he walked out of the hole in the wall he had created and he dusted off his shoulder “Then let’s play,” Spike was plopped down in an alleyway and he stood up and looked at her. “You… who are you? Why are you helping me?” Spike demanded. “...I-” She didn’t get to say when they heard a noise and she narrowly teleported avoiding a stabbing hand that aimed for her heart, she stood by Spike and looked to see Varek. “Yes, do tell me, why do you intrude in a realm that’s not yours and interfere with MY business?” Varek asked as he looked thoughtful “Could it be that you know him? But how I wonder,” Varek said. “...I caused his suffering in the first place before I ascended to heaven, and I am righting my wrong, even if it breaks the rules,” She said. “Caused my suffering?... What do you-” Spike questioned but she stood in front of him “I won’t let you take his happiness away! He has a family now and a happy life ahead of him,” She declared. “You bore me with your defending of a mortal, all I care about, is completing my transaction,” Varek said. “Transaction?” Spike said. “It’s how my business is really run, I give mortals money, take juuuust long enough that the amount increases to the point that they cannot pay it back, and I claim their soul, it has been that way since ancient times,” Varek said. “...You never had any intention of letting me go free did you?” Spike asked with growing anger. “Heheheheh, look at it this way, you had a good ten years at least,” Varek said with a grin and a shrug. “YOU MONSTER!” Spike yelled and he tried to run at Varek but the angel stopped him. “Stop! You cannot beat him directly,” She said. “...Then It really was all for nothing…” Spike said looking distressed. “Well, if we’re done, I’ll kill you now and claim his soul,” Varek began to move towards them. “Wait! I have an offer,” She said. “Oh?” Varek raised a brow. “Yes, a deal, in writing,” She said. “A deal?” Spike asked. “And why should I make a deal with you? Why shouldn’t I just take what I need now?” Varek asked. “Because I know what kind of demon you are Varek, you love challenges, deals that benefit you, and toying with mortals hopes,” She said. “....I admit you have me pegged, and my curiosity is piqued, go on,” Varek said. “One last game, winner take all, Spike wins, you let him go and never bother him or his family again, you win… you can take me instead,” She said. “What?!” Spike said in shock. “And why pray tell would I have any concern regarding this challenge? I could claim you now,” Varek said. “I can also take my own life and fade to oblivion here in this realm, then you won’t have an angel's soul, think of it Varek, the bragging rights and possible promotion from delivering the soul of an angel to darkness?” She said. “.....You're right,” Varek said with chagrin but also interest… she was right, he could gain a lot from obtaining an angel if he claimed Spike it was just another mortal soul, but her soul… yes… “You don-” Spike said but she smiled at him. “Worry not, this is my atonement,” She said. “Atonement for what?” Spike asked but Varek spoke first. “I accept, your bargain benefits me greatly if I win, and in return I’ll cut Spike loose from my deal, but now it’s your soul in the balance, you are aware right?” Varek asked. “I’m aware,” She said. “Then let us not waste any time,” Varek said snapping his fingers and they teleported into a dark room with a table in the center, Spike and the angel on one side and Verak on the other. “Let’s play…” Varek said with a grin. Author's Note They say the path to hell is paved with good intentions, where will Spike's path lead?
Highway to heaven“What are we doing?” Spike asked. “One more game and the winner gets quite the prize,” Varek said grinning at the angel who glared defiantly back. “Alright, how shall we approach this?” Varek asked. “He’s collecting contracts,” She said. “Hm?” Varek said. “What do you mean?” Spike asked. “He will collect all twelve contracts at once and you will try to stop him, he gets five lives and all his powers you granted him before,” The angel stated the rules. “You’ve had time to think of this, I will barter for four,” Varek said. “Very well,” She said. “And all of his powers? Quite the problem,” Varek said. “He gets the powers unless a demon of your power cannot handle it,” She said. “You're quite clever, but your provoking is obvious, nevertheless, I accept,” Varek said. “I will be his guiding voice as well, and help him locate the safes in a fair manner, but I will not directly aid him,” She said with some hesitance. “Heh, alright,” Varek said. “And lastly, if you are caught cheating by any means, he wins by forfeit, so written on this contract,” She said producing the contract and setting it in front of him. “Hmm,” He picked it up and read it carefully before setting it down “A rather well-made contract, I admire your cleverness, very well, I will only use my natural powers, call upon no helpers, and I won’t alter the environment,” Varek said signing the contract and sliding it over to them. “Sign there Spike,” She said. “Why are you risking your own soul for me?” Spike asked. “All will be explained, but first, we must win here,” She said. “What’s your name at least?” Spike asked. “...My name is Meadow,” She said looking away. “Ok,” Spike nodded before he read the contract as well and he then signed it and set the pen down. “Alright, Then let us begin,” Varek grinned with his eyes lighting up with grey lights before he vanished. And then a portal opened behind Spike with Varek’s face on it. “...Good luck Spike,” Meadow said. “...I will, and… thank you for everything,” Spike said before he ran into the portal. ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The deal has changed ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Spike entered what looked like Varek’s office area. But it was now empty, Spike chose not to waste any time and he ran on. As he got out of the computers area he saw what looked like a faint contrail leading out towards a hallway. “What is-” “It’s her guiding you mortal,” Varek said and Spike spun to see him and he was grinning widely with his glowing eyes before he kicked him. Spike coughed up blood as he was sent flying down the hallway, when he landed he looked up and saw Varek approaching but he suddenly zoomed forward taking ten steps in a second. “You have no idea what you're in for boy,” Varek chuckled. “Flee Spike!” Meadow cried. “Tch!” Spike grit through the pain and ran down the hallway, following the contrail and making it down the hallway towards the door they walked towards that had the corpses in it, he opened the door and closed it before tipping a shelf over to block it before he ran down the stairs and into the massacre hall. He saw the contrail leading him to Topsy and he ran over and saw that his broken jaw was mysteriously closed. He ran over and opened it, and his contract fell out, Spike claimed it and it vanished. “Yes!” Spike said before the door and shelf were kicked into the air by a foot and Spike turned to see a figure running super fast towards him. “Yikes!” Spike jumped out of the way in time and Varek demolished a wall with his fist. “Hmmph, you're sharp,” Varek said before he spun and kicked Spike sending him flying and Spike tumbled on the ground, he coughed blood, a broken rib or two most likely. “SPIKE!” Meadow cried. “But still slow,” Varek said before grabbing a pillar and ripping a chunk out of it and throwing it at Spike who rolled out of the way. His broken ribs crunched in the process. “AAAAGH!” Spike cried. “You are quite pain tolerant boy, too bad death is another story,” Varek said before he zipped up to Spike and picked him up by the shirt. “Looks like the first win is mine,” Varek chuckled. “Not… YET!” Spike bit down on his hand hard. “OW!” Varek dropped Spike and Spike struggled to his feet and hobbled away. “Honestly…” Varek sighed as he ran after Spike. Spike rounded a corner and saw the contrail leading him in another direction, down another hall. Sharp pains lanced through Spike but he continued and Spike found the contrail leading him to a bathroom. “Odd,” Spike ran over to it. Before a wall busted down behind him and Varek walked out. “Maybe I’ll force her to fix all the damage with her own hands when I win,” Varek laughed before he zoomed at Spike. “Crap!” Spike said as he tried to run faster but Varek was easily gaining on him. “How do I escape this guy?!” Spike asked. “Use your powers!” Meadow said. “Oh!” Spike said before he used his barrier as Varek was about to reach him and Varek delivered what would have been a fatal punch but the barrier came up and blocked it, though Spike was sent skidding. “Ngh!” Spike grunted. “Tch,” Varek snorted angrily before he ran forward and jumped into the air before slamming his foot onto the barrier cracking it. “I gotta move!” Spike said as he ran to his left as the kick finally broke through the barrier and Spike dove into the restroom and saw a trashcan in a corner, he knocked it over and dug through it. “Nice attempt boy!” Varek tore the door off its handles and walked towards him. “I lose this time, but I have three more,” Spike said before finding the contract in the trash and it vanished. He smiled even as Varek brought his leg down on his head. 3 lives left: “You're doing well Spike, keep going!” Meadow said. Spike woke back up at the office, healed and ready. He got up and ran the other way, seeing a contrail leading him down a hallway and to the left. “Think it's that easy!?” Varek growled as he rounded the corner and held his hand out and some kind of red energy formed in his palm. “DUCK!” Meadow cried and Spike hit the floor as a burst of energy obliterated a wall behind him. “Oh-” Spike didn’t get a chance to curse when Varek ran up to him and raised a foot to stomp on his head. Spike quickly used a barrier and blocked it and then used vanish. “Tch! Nice try boy, I have my methods to countering that,” Varek said as his eyes lit up and he looked around his vision now sensing heat signatures, and he saw Spike running around a corner. “Get back here!” Varek said as he gave chase. Spike made it to what looked like a series of office rooms with glass walls and he saw three contrails in this area. “Here’s hoping,” Spike said as he followed the first one in the one labeled conference room B. He looked through there but couldn’t find it and that’s when Varek smashed through the window glass and marched after Spike. “I will break EVERY bone in your body,” Varek said and Spike ran around the table Varek angrily shoved the table aside and threw a punch at Spike who ducked it. Spike responded by grabbing him and speed boosting into a wall. “Ooof!” Varek grunted and fell over and Spike took this opportunity to look around and he saw the contract had been hidden under the table’s leg before. He dove down and grabbed it and it vanished. He got up but Varek turned Spike around and shoved him down. Spike landed and saw shards of glass and he quickly got an idea and grabbed them, even though it hurt as they cut his hand before Varek picked him up by his throat. “Shall I squeeze slowly? Or just snap it?” Varek grinned. “Hah!” Spike shoved the glass filled hand into Varek’s face, getting glass in his eyes. “AAAGH!” Varek threw Spike aside and clutched his face in pain. Spike flew through a glass wall and onto his back. Spike got up and hurriedly limped over to the next contrail which led him to conference room D. He entered and found multiple papers strewn on the desk, he hurriedly sifted through them looking for the contract. Meanwhile he heard an angry yell and he turned seeing Varek rounding the corner and walking towards him. And he was mad. Spike started tossing papers off the desk and eventually found the paper he was looking for and he made it vanish Spike turned and saw Varek tear the door off and carry it with him, “Catch!” Varek threw the door like a discus and Spike ducked being decapitated by it and it lodged in the wall. As Spike looked up Varek grabbed him by his face and lifted him to his regenerated eyes. “I’m going to make you suffer for that…” Varek said. “Barrier!” Spike made the barrier come out which forced Varek back and then Spike speed boosted away. “YOU PEST!” Varek sped after him. Spike was shocked to see him keeping up and he ran to the other end of the hall, conference room Z. Spike stopped and jumped through the doorway as Varek stopped and turned to him. “I am growing weary of this game,” Varek growled as he moved towards Spike who frantically tipped over a filing cabinet to block him and he ran through the room looking while evading Varek. “I’ll be honest for once, I could kill you anytime, and trust me, you're pushing me to that,” Varek said as his eyes began to turn red and his hands sharpened into claws and he dragged them on the table, leaving deep grooves. “Spike! Hurry!” Meadow said as Spike ran over to a filing cabinet where the contrail seemed to stop and he opened it. He then pulled out all the papers and threw them at Varek who swung his claws cutting all the papers to shreds. But Spike found the one piece of paper among them he didn’t shred and grabbed it making it vanish. Before Varek kicked Spike in the gut sending him through a wall. Spike coughed blood but gritted through the pain like always and he got up. Varek exited the room with a sinister grin. “Hear this!” Varek said as he began taking a deep breath. “Cover your ears!” Meadow cried. Spike did so and just in time as Varek screamed with the force of a jet engine and all the glass in the conference area shattered and Spike was flung off his feet and sent flying onto the glass. “Agh!” Spike grunted as the screech continued and his ears started to bleed. When it stopped Spike struggled to his feet and looked up in time to see Varek grinning at him. “You're not seeing me at my worst boy, I can be much more powerful,” Varek said as he walked forward. “Vanish!” Spike said and he disappeared and he ran away as Varek ran after him. “Haven’t you learned that doesn’t work boy?!” Varek said as he ran forward to stab Spike. “Speed boost!” Spike cried and he ran faster until he was evenly paced with Varek and the two ran through the office, but Spike began to slow eventually. “NO!” Spike said as he saw the contrail leading into another hall and he turned a corner narrowly avoiding Varek’s stabbing hand. “Spike look out!” Meadow cried and Spike looked to see Varek swinging his claw and Spike ducked it avoiding another decapitation before he ran on. “You're elusive, that’s for sure boy, clearly I underestimated you,” Varek grinned as his eyes lit up and he created another dark aura attack and fired. “Spike!” Meadow cried and Spike dodged into another hallway as the blast blew a hole into the wall. Spike looked up and saw the contrail leading into a closet. He ran forward and opened the closet before spotting the contract under a bucket and he grabbed it. And then he was kicked through the door with rib breaking power and Spike tumbled and coughed blood. “You are quickly becoming a nuisance boy!” Varek said before he tried to punch Spike and he used a barrier to block but the force sent him through the floor and Spike grunted as he landed on the ground. Getting up Spike looked around and saw contrails leading away, there must be more on this floor. But the room was so dark as Spike got up Varek was standing there and Spike jumped back. He gave a heavy sigh “It seems I have been left with little choice, you wish to see the wrath of a level four demon? Then you shall witness it first hand!” Varek said before he backed away into the darkness. Immediately Spike heard the squelching of flesh and a transformation was happening. “Wh-what’s happening?” Spike asked before Varek lunged at him. Spike jumped out of the way but paused when he saw it was just an empty body with a hole in its back. “H-huh?” Spike said. “Heheheheheheeeh… you have no idea what you’ve done boy…” Varek’s voice came, it was all warped and deeper, Spike heard clawed feet running amidst the darkness. “Search!” Spike said and he was able to locate his presence… and he had no idea what it was… “I used this form to butcher those fools who owed me money, and it will be the body that ends your pathetic existence!” Varek laughed, and then Spike heard footsteps approaching his position and he spun in time to see a goat headed monster lunging from the shadows and then….. He lost his life in one swing of a claw. 2 lives left: “The demon shows his true colors, things will get tougher Spike, be careful,” Meadow warned. Spike got up on the floor he’d done most of his collecting in, not wanting to go back in the hole he turned and ran and just in time as a large figure broke through the floor. “And where do you think you're going?!” Varek demanded as he got out, showing his true form. He looked like a large humanoid goat headed monster with wings, four arms, cloven feet, a tail with a sharp barb at the end, and a second face on his stomach. “HOLY-” Spike ran with speed boost and the demon ran on all sixs after him. “I’ll tear you limb from limb!” Varek opened his mouth and screeched but Spike used barrier to block it. “Spike! Get to the elevator!” Meadow said and Spike saw the one she was talking about through a shattered window and he opened the elevator and it closed as the demon rounded the corner and lunged but the door closed in time. Spike panted heavily, this guy was truly the most dangerous demon he’s faced yet! Suddenly he heard a loud thud overhead and he looked up seeing a large hand break through the ceiling and swipe around for him. Spike hit the floor and when the door opened he booked it out of there. Spike looked back and saw Varek break through the ceiling and crawl out after him. Spike speed boosted out of there and followed a contrail that split down two ways and he went left, as he ran down the hall the goat monster rounded the corner and crashed into a wall before pursuing him Spike followed the contrail until he found a mess hall, he ran into there and fled down a middle aisle as Varek tore through the lanes and flung tables aside. Spike ran until he spotted a board on the wall with multiple papers on it. One was the contract. Spike nearly slipped as he paused and ran to collect it, after it vanished he noticed the contrail heading into the employee-only area and he ran in after it. Meanwhile Varek just smashed through the doors after him. “YOUR GETTING ON MY NERVES!” Varek screeched as he lunged at Spike and swatted him into a wall. Spike hit the wall and fell down, but he instinctively puts up a barrier and it's a good thing he did because Varek tried to smash him with his fists immediately after. Spike got up and ran before the barrier broke. “YOU ANNOYING PEST!” Varek turned and the second face on his stomach opened its mouth and dark energy built up before firing at Spike. “SPIKE!” Meadow called and Spike saw this and he used speed boost and managed to dodge a massive blast. A blast that totally demolished several walls. “Is he trying to bring the place down?!” Spike exclaimed as he continued following the contrail into the chef's area and he put a mop he found through the handles. “That won’t stop him,” Meadow said. “Anything to buy time,” Spike said as he ran around and searched in cabinets and drawers. Until he saw the contrail lead him to a bunch of papers hung up on and order list and the contract was on it. Spike collected it and then heard a crash as Varek broke into the room and began knocking things aside to reach Spike. “AAAH!” Spike ran away as he jumped onto a counter using his wings and he roared at him. “I thought demons were bad, but you son, you showed me there are humans more grating on the nerves than defiant demons! Forget the angel, I just want you DEAD!” Varek screeched and he hopped down and charged at Spike who jumped out of the was and he wound up plowing through the wall. Spike speed boosted through the hole in the wall and ran out of the room, while Varek was picking himself up. Spike ran down the halls panting heavily, he ultimately hid in a closet and sat to catch his breath. “Don’t relax Spike, you have to continue!” Meadow said. “I’m out of breath… I just need a-” Spike was surprised by a large furry hand smashing through the door, grabbing him and raised him up. “HAHAHAHA! Looks like you only got one left boy!” Varek laughed before he raised his barbed tail and stabbed Spike through the chest. 1 Life left: “This is it Spike, live or die, I believe in you,” Meadow said. Spike woke up back near the elevators. All the times he had only one try left… it’s never been easy… “I got this…” Spike said as he ran down the pathway and hitched a right, he got into a lobby area with a contrail leading him behind a desk. He found the next one easy. Three more… Spike followed the next contrail and used vanish if just to catch Varek off guard in case he’s close. As Spike rounded a corner he saw Varek walking nearby and he paused and sniffed the air. “He’s close…” Varek sneered and he turned to where Spike was. Spike was hiding around the corner and he quickly ran off using speed boost. Spike turned another corner as Varek rounded that corner and sniffed around for him, Spike got out of there. Spike ran until he saw a contrail form and he followed it until he saw it lead to an office, he entered and found it located under the desk. “NOO!” Spike heard Varek roar from elsewhere and he turned to see the monster on the other side of the hall and he turned to see the beast running towards him. “AHH!” Spike ran for it out of the office and back out into the big hallway. With Varek bursting out of the office area moments later. “I WON’T LOSE TO A HUMAN!” Varek screeched as he raised his upper half up, aimed his second mouth, and fired another powerful blast at him. “Spike! Barrier!” Meadow cried and Spike didn’t look back he put up the barrier and the blast collided with him and sent Spike flying off of his feet. Spike tumbled on the ground and looked up to see the goat monster fly into the air and try to slam down on him. “Crap!” Spike rolled out of the way and he struck the ground with enough force to crack it. Spike got up but the monster struck him aside and Spike rolled onto the ground. He struggled to his feet and saw the monster get up and stare down at him. “You are the most elusive and aggravating human I’ve ever met!” Varek snarled. “And you're the worst kind of monster…” Spike said. “Hmmph, I look forward to ripping your flesh from your bones!” Varek said before raising his upper arms and slamming them down, Spike dodged to the left as the slam shattered the ground and Spike ran down another hallway where the contrail was leading him. Spike could hear the monster behind him but he continued running, refusing to die, not after everything! Spike ran out into an open area and saw that it was raining, he looked around and saw the contrail leading him to an open window. He ran forward and dove through the window as Varek entered and he growled before running back in. Meanwhile Spike found himself in another office and saw the contract in a trash bin. He grabbed it and it vanished. “One more!” Spike said getting up and running out of the room just in time to see Varek trying to cut him off down a hallway. “I WON’T LET YOU WIN! YOU HEAR ME!” Varek roared and Spike ran with all his might to escape the rampaging monster. “You're almost there Spike!” Meadow said. “Alright!” Spike rounded the corner and went down the only hall he hasn’t. And he ran out into a big open area near the lobby and saw the very thing he was hoping. The last contract, in what looks like a case of trophies. Spike used a speed boost to run for it. But a certain demon wasn’t prepared to lose. “NOOOOOOOOOO!” Varek roared before spreading his wings and taking to the air and flying over Spike, landing in front of him and ramming his head forward. And impaling Spike through the abdomen with a horn. “GUH!” Spike gagged. “SPIKE!” Meadow cried. “I… win…” Varek panted before laughing and hoisting Spike into the air and with a toss of his head he flung the prone human to the ground. “Agh!...” Spike groaned and coughed blood. “What? How are you still alive?! How hard is it to kill a simple human?!” Varek cursed before standing back and leaning up “Out of respect for the first human to put me though so much effort, I will grant you the death you’ve been fighting against,” Varek said with a laugh. “NO!” Meadow cried appearing. “Ah ah, no interference, remember?” Varek taunted and Meadow was forced to stay back. “Spike! Get up!” She begged. “Ugh…” Spike coughed up lots of blood but he managed to get up. “You can still stand, even after being stabbed? I’ve met tenacious humans before, but you,” Varek laughed before charging up the blast from his stomach mouth. “SPIKE!” Meadow cried. “I…” Spike staggered towards Varek. “SAY GOODBYE!” Varek laughed before he fired. “...” Spike remembered Rarity, Scout, and Lance as the blast approached him. “I…am coming home…” Spike said……..”BARRIER!” Spike cried and suddenly the barrier came up and blocked the attack. “WHAT THE?!” Varek said in surprise. “You think you can just play with our lives and hopes don’t you Verak… you're about to see, a father's rage!” Spike yelled and he ran forward. “IMPOSSIBLE!” Varek screeched and he used his sonic scream to try and debilitate Spike further but Spike powered through and used speed boost. “Why doesn’t he die?! HOW?!” Varek exclaimed in his head before he lunged “DROP DEAD HUMAN!” Varek roared while Spike saw what he was hoping to happen, happen… The screech had broken open the trophy cabinet and Spike ran forward despite feeling like he was dying. “DIE!” Varek slammed down where Spike was creating a dust cloud. "Spike!" Meadow exclaimed. ...As Varek got up he didn’t see him. “What the?! Where did he-” “Hey Verak!” Spike called and Varek turned to see him standing by the trophy case with the contract in hand. “What?! NO!” Varek lunged at Spike but he was too late… The contract vanished and a light consumed the place. Spike opened his eyes and saw he was back in the dark room with the table, and across from him was Varek and beside him was Meadow. “No….i-impossible! I can’t lose! NOT TO A MERE HUMAN!” Varek yelled angrily tossing the table aside and running at Spike “I REFUSE IT!” Varek shrieked and he tried to grab Spike but suddenly a contract flew up and repelled him. “WHAT?!” Varek staggered back. “The contract you signed forbids attacking him or me, in the event we win, speaking of which, you lose Varek,” Meadow said with a smile. “I-it can’t be… I’m a level-four demon! I can’t lose to-” “Quit your whining,” Spike said and Varek looked down at him “Isn’t that what you told me every time I complained about your treatment of me?” Spike simply said. “You arrogant little wretch!” Varek tried to hit him with his four fists but they just glanced off the contract. “Accept it Varek, you don’t get either of us, now if you’ll excuse us, he has a family to return to,” Meadow said. “RRRRRAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAGH!” Varek roared angrily and slammed his fist on the ground leaving big cracks before he shrank down into his more human form and he stood straightening his tie. “.....Very well… but know this Spike, if you EVER end up in hell again, be ready, because then your mine, and I assure you, your suffering will be eternal,” Varek growled before turning and leaving “Now if you’ll excuse me, I have more deals to make and a now thoroughly damaged reputation to attend to, I hope we meet again Spike… I really do,” Varek growled at Spike one last time before opening a door in the darkness and leaving, closing the door behind him. “....” Spike turned to Meadow and extended his hand and she took it. “I am proud of you Spike, defeating a level four demon is no easy task,” Meadow said. “Guess I got lucky, thanks for everything Meadow, you saved me and my family,” Spike said. “...Listen Spike, I wanted to say that…I’m sorry,” She said. “Sorry for what? I should be thanking you,” Spike said. “But… it’s my fault you ended up in this situation to begin with…” Meadow said. “What?” Spike asked for more clarification. “...The truth is Spike, I do know you… because…I’m your-” She looked conflicted and Spike just held up a hand, understanding. “I understand,” Spike said. “I’m so sorry, I never should have left you in that orphanage… I thought you’d be happier there, than with a penniless single mother,” She said. “...” Spike looked down. “You went through so much suffering, and fell into Varek’s trap because of me… I’m sorry…” Meadow said sniffling a little. “....I indeed went through alot… but then… I wouldn’t have met Rarity, I wouldn’t have helped give birth to Lance and Scout, and if it weren’t for you… I wouldn’t have been able to save them, so… thank you, Mom,” Spike said as he hugged her and she hugged back. “Thank you for understanding… it’s time to head home now, but please, give Scout and Lance a good life, what I could never have given you,” Meadow said. “I will,” Spike said and she flapped her wings and carried Spike into the light above. Spike woke up on the ground in the alleyway he and Verak were in before Spike followed him into hell. Looking around he saw the briefcase with the money he had taken a loan on and it looked untouched… Spike looked around and saw people going about their business and looking up he saw blue skies and he took a deep breath. He was home… “Thank you,” Spike repeated before he got up and walked away with the money he was going to give back to his friend, seeing as it wasn't needed now. Spike arrived home and saw it was untouched, it looked like it was truly over. He was victorious over hell he still has plenty of emotional scars that will take awhile to heal, but he was ready to continue his life knowing that it was fixed. Spike opened the door and called out “Rarity? I’m home!” “Spike? SPIKE!” Rarity’s voice cried and she ran over to him with Scout in her arm and she hugged him with her other arm “I was so worried! You vanished for more than two whole days and nobody could find you-” Spike hushed her with a kiss. “It’s alright now, let’s go inside,” Spike said and he and Rarity went inside and Lance ran up to him. “Daddy!” Lance cried running over to him and hugging his leg. “Hey there little man,” Spike said with a chuckle. “Where were you daddy?” Lance asked. “Yes, where were you?” Rarity asked. “....Let’s just say, I’ve been through hell,” Spike joked. “Oh you,” Rarity rolled her eyes. “Well, enough of that, let’s go out to eat, my treat,” Spike said wanting nothing more than to head out with his family after his ordeal. “Sounds lovely dear, I have to… make a few calls first,” Rarity said before walking away with Scout. “Boy does daddy have a story for you guys,” Spike said as he picked up Lance and walked after Rarity with him. There are some who would say that going to work, arguing with your family, even getting hit by a car is hell. But I learned there is a real hell, and it carries more suffering than the world is ready for, but if hell exists, so does heaven. What I’ve been through throughout my life was horrible, but everything worked out in the end and now, I’ve found my heaven, in the end, life is hard, but it's what you make of it that matters. And I pray, when I meet my mother in heaven, we can catch up a little more. -Spike Author's Note That ending was a masterpiece, in my books at least. I hope you all enjoyed this story, made by a big fan of the base game Dark Deception, see you all next time.
