Work Text:
Clank.
Clank.
Clank.
Clank.
The world was drenched in black and white, as if every color had been devoured whole.
Clank.
Clank.
Clank.
Clank.
Staircases and pathways twisted through the void like some impossible optical illusion. Nothing felt real.
Clank.
Clank.
Clank.
Clank.
Footsteps echoed through the emptiness as a yellow figure ran along a checkered path.
Clank.
Clank.
Clank.
Clank.
The path stretched endlessly before them, winding deeper into the void.
Clank.
Clank.
Clank—
"H-Huh?"
The figure skidded to a halt before a towering staircase. At its peak, a glowing red EXIT sign blinked steadily, casting a crimson gleam into their wide eyes.
"…"
Clump.
They began to climb, one heavy step at a time, each footfall booming in the silence.
Clump.
Clump.
Clump.
Clump.
At the top stood a massive black door. The figure clenched their fists, then slowly pushed it open.
Creeeaaak…
They gasped.
The world beyond was chaos. Black and white cloaked everything. Buildings lay in ruin—some floating, others collapsing, as if gravity had given up. And in the distance, a monstrous shadow loomed. It had the twisted form of a… witch? The yellow figure stepped closer to the edge, clutching the small gate that lined the road. They looked down—nothing but destruction. A single leap would mean certain death. They quickly looked up again. Another figure stood across the void, atop a floating structure.
The yellow figure squinted, trying to make out the shape.
Pale white skin. Black hair that fell just below their shoulders. A swishing spiked tail. An elegant outfit. Humanoid, but clearly not normal. A Robloxian? Another one? Before they could fully process what they were seeing, the black-haired figure stepped back—then charged straight toward the towering witch. Suddenly, a building flew across the battlefield, crashing into another, taking the mysterious figure with it—or so it seemed. A heartbeat later, they reappeared, launching themselves at the witch again. A magma-like substance surged toward the white Robloxian. They dodged swiftly, only for another stream to come at them faster. A shield flared to life just in time to block it. The yellow figure recoiled in horror.
"T-That’s terrible…" they choked out.
"There’s no stopping it."
They turned, startled by a voice. A creature stood beside them— it looked like a nightmare-fueled catlike being with black fur and too many eyes.
"One person can't endure this torture alone… but they knew that, and came anyway."
It flicked an ear as it spoke. The yellow Robloxian turned back to the chaos.
The black-haired figure emerged again, soaring boldly at the witch. But the witch only laughed—a piercing, cruel sound—and unleashed a wave of fire. The explosion threw the figure into another building, rubble and smoke rising from the impact.
"But… that’s too much! This can’t be right!"
The yellow Robloxian stared through the haze, desperate. Their eyes met the other’s—and something inside them stirred. They didn’t know what to do.
"If they give up, it’s over. All hope will be lost," the creature murmured.
The yellow figure glanced at it, then back at the battlefield.
"But you have the power to change this fate," the creature added.
They blinked. A light flared nearby—too sudden, too loud. They covered their ears and gasped, trembling.
"All this chaos… this malice… You can change it. If you want to. The power lies within you."
They stared at their own shaking hands.
"I can… change this?"
The black-haired Robloxian was falling again, struck down once more.
"Even someone like me… Can I really change this outcome?"
They looked up, voice trembling.
"Could I really change this ending?"
"Of course you can," the creature said, eyes gleaming. "As long as you make a contract with me… and become a Magical Survivor."
The yellow Robloxian looked down at their hands. Slowly, they lowered them and closed their eyes. When they opened them again, they stared out at the battlefield with newfound resolve.
A light flared.
They blinked.
"...Mm?"
Elliot slowly sat up in bed, clutching a small pillow to his chest. He blinked, glancing around his room. A long sigh escaped him as he leaned back against the headboard, eyes closing again.
"That was a weird dream… Maybe Mia’s fancy tales are getting to me again…"
.
.
.
“Good morning, D—! Uh...” Elliot rubbed his eyes lightly as they walked into the kitchen. He half-expected his dad and Mia to be up already, but he also half-expected Mia to be struggling to wake his dad. He sighed softly, making his way back down the hall.
“I guess I was fifty percent right today...” Elliot yawned into his hand, a small smile tugging at his lips.
“Dad... I told Elliot I’d get you up today! C’mon, pleaseee?” Mia tugged gently at what looked like a massive blanket draped over a huge mattress.
“Dadd... DAD!” She poked the blanket with a slight frown. After a moment, she sighed and dropped her arms to her sides.
Suddenly, the door burst open, making Mia yelp in surprise. Elliot stepped inside, hurried to the blinds, and pulled them open, flooding the dark room with light. Mia rubbed her eyes sleepily as Elliot walked over to the bed and grabbed the blanket with both hands.
“Up and at ’em, SLEEPYHEAD!” Elliot yanked the blanket off, letting it drop to the floor. Mr. Builder let out a dramatic scream, sitting upright and rubbing his eyes.
“What the—!?” He exclaimed, blinking at both of his kids. Mia giggled quietly, and Elliot smiled warmly.
“Good morning, Dad! Good morning, Mia!” Elliot patted both of them on the head before heading out of his father’s bedroom.
Elliot and his father stood side by side, brushing their teeth. Mr. Builder glanced at his son before turning back to the mirror.
“...So. What’s been going on at school?” His voice was slightly muffled by the toothbrush.
“Hmm.. Dusekkar got another letter from some mystery guy. Said there’s been quite a few.” Elliot blinked, glancing over at his dad.
“If they don’t show their face soon, he should report it,” his father said bluntly.
“I guess he could if it’s making him uncomfortable. But he doesn’t really care much about it, y’know?”
“Someone like him should be cautious. Especially being the kind of young admin he is. He’s very wise — especially for his age.”
They both spat into the sink, placing their toothbrushes in a small holder.
“But nonetheless, he’s certainly no better than my son!” Mr. Builder smiled, splashing a bit of water on his face. Elliot giggled and did the same.
“Thanks, Dad, but I highly doubt I’ll ever be as smart as Dusekkar...” Elliot patted around the counter, trying to grab a towel. Mr. Builder chuckled, pulled a small white towel from the cabinet, and placed it in his son's hands.
“You need to stop doubting yourself, Elliot. You’re smarter and stronger than you think — but you’ll never see it if you keep fighting against it.” Elliot wiped his face and looked back at his father. He smiled softly, placing the towel to the side.
“I mean it, son. Really.” His father placed a hand on Elliot’s shoulder, and they both chuckled lightly.
His father put on his hardhat, checking himself in the mirror. He smiled proudly, then noticed Elliot searching for his missing hat. Mr. Builder giggled and reached into an upper cabinet, pulling out Elliot’s hat from the back. Elliot smiled, took the hat, and placed it on his head.
“I have no idea how you do it, but you swear you make your work uniform look like the best outfit ever!” His father exclaimed. Elliot chuckled.
“Really? I feel like the red makes me stand out too much...” Elliot scratched the back of his head.
“Nonsense! There’s no such thing as standing out too much! But if the color really bothers you, you could always change, you know that right? I want to make it clear you know you’re not required to wear your uniform all the time—”
“Dad!! It’s fine! I wear my uniform to school because it’s easier than rushing home with such little time before work, you know?” Elliot waved a hand, cutting him off. Mr. Builder smiled and held both of Elliot’s shoulders.
“Well, either way, I think you look perfect, son.”
Elliot blinked, smiling back at his dad.
“Thanks, Dad.”
“Everybody’s gonna drop dead when they see you! All your secret admirers will HAVE to make a move now!”
Elliot blushed, pushing his father playfully.
“Dad! I wear this outfit every day! And plus—nobody thinks of me like that!”
“Nobody you know of—yet!”
“DAD!”
Elliot, Mia, and Mr. Builder ate breakfast together at the table. Mr. Builder glanced at the clock and noticed how late it was.
“Ah! Come on, Mia, I gotta get to work and you can’t miss school!” He finished his coffee and stood up, walking over to hug Elliot.
“Oh... Okay, Dad!” Mia finished her bacon, hopped off her seat, and grabbed her backpack.
“Elliot, make sure you get to school on time, alright?” His father said, taking Mia’s hand and heading to the front door.
“Yeah, I will, Dad! Don’t worry!” Elliot waved goodbye to his dad and sister.
“Byeee, Elli!” Mia shouted, waving back.
“Bye, Mia! Have a good day at school!” Elliot called as the door closed behind them. He smiled for a moment, looking up at the clock.
“Oh, shoot!” Elliot grabbed a piece of toast, popped it in his mouth, snatched his bag, and rushed out the door. He munched quickly as he headed down his usual path to school.
Chance and Dusekkar glanced behind them as the sound of rapid footsteps approached. They both smiled, spotting Elliot trying to catch up.
“Good morning, guys!” Elliot shouted, slightly panting as he reached them, standing between his two friends.
“Elliot being late for once? That’s something new!” Chance teased with a grin.
“Chance, please, cut him some slack! For we are both aware of how much he carries on his back,” Dusekkar said, nudging Chance gently.
“A very good morning to you as well! As for your running—be more careful, you could’ve fell.” Dusekkar added with a small smile.
“Oh, come on, Dusek! I’m not that clumsy, I swear!” Elliot smiled, as the three continued walking.
“Oh really? Well, let’s see if you can keep up!” Chance chuckled before suddenly dashing ahead, leaving the others behind.
“Wha—Hey! Chance with you I must contain my anger, for this extra running could be an extreme cause of danger !!!” Dusekkar shouted, chasing after him. Elliot giggled and took off after them both.
Chance laughed as Dusekkar tried to grab him several times, dodging each attempt with ease. Elliot ran beside them, chuckling at the playful chase. Growling, Dusekkar tossed his bag up, caught it with both hands, and tucked it under his arm.
“Since you think you're so funny with your tricking, I have no choice but to win this stupid bickering! ” Dusekkar declared, picking up speed and running past Chance with a chuckle.
“Ah, so we’re racing now? Better catch up then, Chance!” Elliot exclaimed, speeding up and leaving Chance in last place.
“Oh really? You’re both on! First one past that light post wins!” Chance shouted, and all three giggled as they sprinted down the path.
“My dad says that if something’s making you uncomfortable or bothering you, you should definitely tell someone,” Elliot remarked as they walked and talked. Dusekkar strolled slightly ahead while Elliot walked in the middle and Chance trotted behind.
“Your dad is so cool, Ells! He’s smart, successful, and super chill! Always inviting me and my parents over for dinner and stuff!” Chance said, speeding up a bit to walk beside Elliot.
Dusekkar stepped back, turning fully to face them. Despite turning, he kept walking backward, eyes fixed on the sky.
“I believe your father is right about taking precautions. So, with this mysterious person's notes, I shall be very cautious,” Dusekkar said, a small smile tugging at his lips as he put a finger to his chin.
“Walking backward like that doesn’t seem very cautious to me,” Chance said, smiling. Dusekkar chuckled before turning around to face forward and continued walking normally.
“I suppose you’re right, my dear friend! I shall be careful about this until my very end!” Dusekkar glanced back at Elliot with a smile before facing his head forward once again.
“If only everyone was as popular as you, Dusekkar,” Chance joked.
“Oh, please, Chance, spare me the dramatics. Popularity is clearly not in my status,” Dusekkar waved his hand dismissively, staring ahead.
“You know he’s right, Dusekkar! If I were ever popular, I’d want your kind of popularity—not the kind where people swarm you, but the kind where they keep their distance and just admire, ya know? ” Elliot said, thoughtfully putting a hand to his chin.
“Oh, I see! Our little Elliot is trying to change his image, huh? Becoming as popular and cool as Dusekkar?” Chance giggled, putting an arm around Elliot’s shoulder.
“What? No! That’s not true—”
“You got your dad to talk about popularity and picked up a few tips, huh? Trying to get all cool and professional, maybe even spitting out rhymes like Dusekkar!” Chance teased, lifting Elliot playfully.
“I’m not gonna let that happen! People aren’t gonna start treating you like some celebrity on my watch!” Chance laughed, spinning Elliot around as the other yelped.
“Chance! Stop! Put me down!” Elliot giggled, struggling in his friend’s grasp.
“Ahem.” Dusekkar cleared his throat, making the two stop as they realized they were standing in front of the school. Dusekkar sighed.
“As time goes on, including on the way here, I may not know what to do with you two I fear...”
The bell rang, signaling the start of class for everyone.
"Alright, students! I have a question for you all, so make sure you’re paying attention!" Mr. Carl shouted after everyone had settled into their seats.
"Is the correct way to open a banana from the top or the bottom? Hurry up now, Taph! I don’t have all day!" He pointed his stick directly at Taph.
The hooded Robloxian glanced around, startled, as he seemed to be doodling on his paper.
"🍌↕️🤷❓ (You can open it either way, can’t you? I don’t think it really matters…)" Taph signed to the teacher, pulling his hood down a little more out of embarrassment.
"Hmm… Yes! Precisely! That’s the correct answer! And as Taph just stated, you students should never judge the quality of a man based on how he peels his damn BANANAS!" Mr. Carl slammed his stick down so hard the classroom nearly shook.
"☝️🗣️❌ (I didn’t say all of that…)" Taph signed quickly, but was promptly ignored. He sighed and returned to his doodling.
"Must’ve had a rough morning, huh?" Chance whispered to Elliot, giggling.
"Whatever gave you that idea?" Elliot replied, chuckling back. Chance turned his attention back to the board.
"Okay, okay… With that out of the way, I’d like you all to give a big warm welcome to our newest student!" Mr. Carl exclaimed, clapping his hands.
"That probably should’ve come first, huh?" Chance muttered as whispers and murmurs spread around the room. Footsteps echoed outside the classroom door, and heads snapped toward the entrance.
"Don’t be shy, Two. I promise they won’t bite."
The new student walked to the front of the class, and everyone gasped, staring.
"Whoa, they’re super pretty. Wonder who does their hair, huh?" Chance whispered to Elliot, who was too focused on the newcomer to respond.
Their black hair fell just past their shoulders, their spiky tail swayed behind their legs, and their pale white skin made them stand out. They almost looked like…
Elliot gasped, recalling the dream he had earlier that morning — the black-haired Robloxian.
"Wha—... There’s no way…"
"Well, go on ahead, tell the class a little about yourself!" Mr. Carl encouraged.
They paused, staring at the class without a word.
"My name is Two Time. It’s nice to meet you all." They said softly before grabbing an expo marker and writing their name on the board. After setting the marker down, they bowed deeply to the class.
Slow clapping filled the room as Two Time stood upright again.
Two Time then turned their head ever so slightly and locked eyes with Elliot. Elliot jumped, staring back for a brief moment before quickly looking down at his desk. Whether it was embarrassment, fear, or something else, he definitely didn’t want to hold that gaze.
"So, what school did you attend before coming here?" Someone asked eagerly.
Two Time blinked slightly, looking over.
"I was homeschooled by my church, along with a few others." They replied evenly.
"Do you play sports?" Another student asked.
"No, I didn’t really do anything sports-related." Two Time answered again.
"Your hair is beautiful! What shampoo do you use?" Another voice chimed in. Soon, a small group had gathered around Two Time.
"...I must say, that new student is quite popular for just joining today," Dusekkar noted quietly to Chance and Elliot, who sat with them at a nearby table watching the crowd.
"Hey, Ell, do you know them?" Chance turned fully toward Elliot. "I could’ve sworn they were looking at you after they bowed." Chance frowned slightly as Elliot scratched the back of his neck.
"I’m not entirely sure… I don’t think so. Sorry…" Elliot replied, shrugging. Chance adjusted his shades and looked back toward Two Time.
"I’m sorry, I’d love to answer all your questions, but I don’t feel very well at the moment." Two Time said, pressing a hand to their forehead.
"Please excuse me. I’d like to go to the nurse’s office." They stood up.
"Oh, we’re sorry to hear that! Would you like me to go with you?" Someone offered.
"Yeah, I can come along if you want!" Another voice volunteered.
"Please, I wouldn’t want to trouble you all. I’ll ask the nurse’s aide for help." Two Time said quickly, then turned away, walking towards Elliot, Chance, and Dusekkar.
Elliot blinked nervously as Two Time stopped in front of their table, standing directly across from him.
"Mr. Elliot. You are the nurse’s aide for this class, correct?" Two Time asked bluntly, arms folded behind their back. Elliot swallowed hard.
"Well... uh..." He fidgeted with his hands.
"May you please come with me? To the nurse’s office." Two Time’s eyes narrowed slightly.
Elliot blinked a few times before nervously standing up.
Elliot and Two Time walked down the hallway, drawing a few curious glances from other students. Two Time led the way, with Elliot trailing just a short distance behind—almost like Two Time was guiding him rather than the other way around. It felt... strange.
“I... uh...” Elliot began, staring at the back of Two Time’s head. The other just kept walking forward.
“So... uh... how did you know I was the nurse’s aide for our class?” Elliot asked, breaking the silence. Two Time stayed quiet, which only made Elliot feel more uneasy. He glanced down at his feet, searching for something else to say.
“The teacher told me after class,” Two Time finally replied. “He said you’re a good person to go to if I need anything. You know your way around.”
Elliot looked up, relieved at the response. “Ah! Right! Of course he did! That’s important to know, haha.”
“Oh, by the way, the nurse’s office is over to your—” Elliot started, but trailed off as Two Time abruptly turned left, continuing down the hall.
“Uh...”
“The nurse’s office is this way, right?” Two Time asked, not turning back.
“Uh... yeah, it is, but...” Elliot began but quickly stopped himself, silence falling between them again. His nervousness grew.
“So... how do you know your way there? Since it’s your first day here and all...” Elliot tried again. Two Time just kept walking, taking another turn without waiting for Elliot to instruct them. The hallway gradually emptied as they moved along.
“Uh... Mister— or Miss... uh... Two Time?” Elliot ventured, not wanting to assume.
Two Time clenched their fist slightly. “Please, you don’t have to call me either. ‘They’ or just ‘Two Time’ is fine.”
“Oh! Uhh... Two Time...” Elliot trailed off.
“Is something wrong?” they asked.
“Oh! No, not at all! It’s just... I’ve never really heard a name like yours before. It kinda fits, you know? Your name has two parts—so it goes ‘Two Times!’” Elliot chuckled to himself as they walked on. By now, they were alone in the hallway. Two Time’s face darkened, their footsteps growing heavier. Elliot noticed.
“I—uh—I didn’t mean it rudely! Sorry if it sounded that way... I just think your name sounds really cool! For a first name...” Elliot added quickly.
Two Time stopped walking, pivoted on their heel, and faced Elliot. Their expression was unreadable. Elliot stopped as well, meeting their gaze.
“Elliot Builder,” Two Time said, voice low and demanding, “Do you treasure the life you have now, and consider your family and friends very precious? ”
Elliot was startled by the question but continued to stare into their eyes. “I... uhm... of course I do. I love them all very much, with all my heart! Why wouldn’t I?”
“Do you mean it? Truly?”
“Yes— Yes! I mean it! I would never lie about something like that!” Elliot’s hands clasped nervously. The questions felt strange and unrelated to anything they’d talked about. Two Time relaxed, unclenching their fists.
“Very well. If that is your honest truth, then you won’t do anything to change your life or who you are, Elliot. Otherwise...” Their voice turned cold. “You’d lose everything you love and care for deeply.”
Elliot gasped softly, anxiety rising. Two Time then turned away.
“Don’t ever change, Elliot Builder. No matter what, stay as you are. Stay as you are... forever.” They resumed walking yet again, disappearing down the dark hallway. Their voice echoed down the empty hallway, leaving Elliot alone startled with his swirling thoughts.
What could they possibly mean?
Two Time excelled rapidly in all their classes. They were a quick learner, mastering every subject with remarkable skill. Elliot found himself watching them more often than he realized. When Two Time caught him looking, they’d hold his gaze, causing Elliot to scramble—looking away or hiding behind Chance or Dusekkar. Both noticed Elliot’s odd behavior and connected it to Two Time’s stares. Eventually, the three friends agreed to meet up after school at the pizza place.
“They said—What?” Chance questioned, nearly dropping the slice of pepperoni pizza he was about to bite into.
The three sat at a small table in Builder Brothers Pizza, where Elliot worked after school.
“It doesn’t really make sense, huh…” Elliot muttered, covering his mouth slightly.
“Ughhh! And here I was thinking they were gonna be awesome and all, but it turns out they’re a total weirdo!” Chance exclaimed, dropping the pizza back onto his plate.
“I hope they don’t think acting like some weird cultist freak is cool! That’s so sad it’s embarrassing for me!” he added dramatically, hugging himself and sticking his tongue out. Dusekkar giggled at the remark, sipping his Bloxy Cola.
“Elliot, I do understand your panicking, but there has to be some kind of misunderstanding,” Dusekkar said thoughtfully. “I believe Chance has asked you before—but are you positive you haven’t met this person? Could you perhaps be unsure?”
“Well… technically I haven’t…” Elliot replied hesitantly.
“Huh? What do you mean technically? C’mon, Ell, don’t start being like Mr. Shakespeare over here…” Chance slightly frowned, resting his arms on the table.
“Even though you tried to bicker, I heard a rhyme— That makes me snicker,” Dusekkar grinned, covering his mouth with his hand as he giggled.
Chance blinked, realization dawning. “Hey! C’mon, that was unintentional! Whatever, whatever! What were you saying, Ell?” he said, nudging Dusekkar lightly before turning back to Elliot.
“Well… I know this is gonna sound weird or crazy, but… I first met them in a dream... Or something.”
The table went quiet for a moment. Then—
“Pfffft—AHAHA!” Chance burst into laughter.
Elliot's face grew red as he shrunk back a little, turning toward Dusekkar for backup— But Dusekkar was giggling too.
“I guess those anime shows your sister watches are starting to get to you, huh!?” Chance teased, still laughing as Dusekkar nudged him.
“Come on, you two! You’re acting like children! This is seriously bothering me!” Elliot said, fidgeting with his hands again.
Chance picked up his pizza slice and began waving it in front of Elliot’s face.
“Alright, now I see it… You two knew each other in some kinda past life, and fate’s bringing you together again!” he teased, laughing to himself—
Until Dusekkar swiftly grabbed his hand and shoved the pizza into his mouth to shut him up.
“If I may ask, as Chance eats his slice— What was this dream that wasn’t so nice?” Dusekkar asked, now resting his head on both hands.
“That’s the thing,” Elliot said with a small frown. “I can’t fully remember it. All I know is… weird stuff was happening, and it was definitely kind of frightening.”
“As funny as it was, I do think it’s possible,” Dusekkar mused. “You and Two Time meeting before just might be plausible.”
Both Chance and Elliot looked at him.
“For in the end, you might not recall when— But your subconscious remembered, and showed you again.”
Elliot blinked and looked down at his lap.
“That’d have to be really coincidental, don’t you think?” Chance said, finishing off his slice.
“Hmm… I suppose you could be right. After all, I was just sharing my insight,” Dusekkar replied with a soft shrug. He glanced at the clock and sighed.
“I’ve enjoyed this small conversation, But I must be off—to attend a confrontation.”
He stood from his seat.
“Another admin meeting with the board?” Chance asked, looking over. “I thought you didn’t have to go to those.”
Dusekkar grabbed his bag and glanced back at them.
“Though not required, they admire my flair. My way with words, the wisdom I share,” he replied, wiping his mouth with a napkin.
“Ha! I guess that’s what happens when you’re as smart as Dusekkar! I can rest easy knowing you’ll be running the place someday. Just wait till you’re older, Dusek!” Chance said, standing up too.
Elliot smiled as he got to his feet. “Chance is right, you know? Sometimes I can’t even believe I’m friends with a future admin!”
Dusekkar blushed slightly, the fire in his head glowing a bit brighter.
“Oh, please—I'm no admin yet! But I’ll be grateful for whatever title I get,” he said with a soft smile before waving goodbye and stepping out of the pizza place.
“Hey Ell,” Chance turned to Elliot, “wanna head to the Timeless Mall?”
“The Limiteds store? Getting something for iTrapped again?” Elliot teased, grinning as Chance’s face turned slightly red.
“C’mon! I’ll get you something too!”
SHING.
A bullet sliced through wires as a black creature—covered in eyes—darted through the dark, narrowly avoiding the shot. It kept moving, bouncing from wall to wall as a storm of bullets chased after it.
SHING.
SHING.
SHING.
One bullet finally made contact, slamming the creature into a wall with enough force to leave a dent. It hit the ground hard, but scrambled back up and continued running. The barrage didn’t stop.
Footsteps echoed in the darkness.
A figure followed behind, calm and steady. Their black hair fell gracefully a few inches past their shoulders, swaying with each step. The figure paused, listening carefully to the silence—
CLANK.
With barely a moment’s hesitation, they bolted toward the noise, disappearing into the shadows.
Elliot and Chance strolled through the timeless mall, eventually stepping into one of Chance’s favorite sections: Ice Limiteds. Chance made a beeline for the crowns and jewelry, eyes already gleaming. Elliot, meanwhile, wandered quietly. His gaze landed on a sleek pair of blue shades. He stared at them longingly but didn’t dare pick them up—too afraid of dropping them. He knew Chance could probably afford it, but he didn’t want to impose.
So he simply kept browsing.
"Help me."
Elliot froze. He turned around completely—
But no one was there. He scanned the area in confusion.
"Elliot, help me."
"Huh?" he muttered, blinking and spinning around again, trying to locate the source of the voice. Chance, across the aisle, frowned slightly as he caught sight of Elliot turning in slow circles while he was inspecting a pair of blue headphones.
"Please. Help me."
Elliot’s eyes landed on a back door near the Ice section. He hesitated, then quickly glanced around to see if anyone was watching. With a quiet sigh, he reached for the handle.
"Hello...? I—is anyone there?" Elliot called softly. The hallway beyond was dim and narrow, clearly off-limits. He knew he shouldn't be here.
"Help me..."
The voice again. Elliot spotted another door, this one marked with a small metal sign:
This floor is closed due to reconstruction.
He hesitated. For just a second. But curiosity—and concern—won out. If someone was in trouble, he wouldn’t forgive himself for ignoring it.
The door creaked open loudly.
Inside, the room was even darker and freezing cold. Elliot hugged himself as he stepped in, every instinct on edge. After a few steps, he came across a large gate blocking further entry.
"Where... are you?" he asked into the darkness, anxiety threading through his voice.
Then—
RUMBLE.
Elliot’s head snapped up as the ceiling above started to quake violently. He jumped back just in time as the section burst open, rubble and metal clattering down. He yelped, falling backwards as a thick cloud of dust and smoke filled the air. A dark lump landed in the center of it. Elliot squinted through the haze. As it cleared, his breath caught.
It was a shadowy black creature—catlike, scarred, and slightly bloodied. Dozens of eerie eyes lined its body. But despite its unnerving appearance, something about it still resembled a kitten. Without thinking, Elliot rushed over, cradling it gently in his arms. It was injured badly. And it looked... scared.
"Were you the one calling me?" he asked quietly, unsure if it would respond.
"H-Help... me..." the cat choked out weakly.
Elliot gasped. He stared at it, blinking in disbelief. What was this thing? What could he even do?
CRASH!
A loud noise erupted just ahead. Chains whipped down from the ceiling. Elliot instinctively shielded the cat, closing his eyes against the dust and debris. When he opened them again, someone stood in front of him.
His eyes widened.
"Two Time?"
Two Time stared silently. Their outfit was completely different from what they’d worn to school. The only familiar element was the strange symbol still displayed on their chest.
' Now they look even more like the version from my dream... '
"Get away from that creature," Two Time ordered coldly.
Elliot looked down at the cat, then back up.
"But... it’s really hurt..." he started, hesitating. He glanced again at the creature’s wounds, then at Two Time’s unfamiliar outfit. Slowly, Elliot turned his body, shielding the creature behind him.
"Leave them alone. This poor thing’s injured, why are you trying to hurt it!?" Elliot demanded, his voice louder now, more firm.
"You’re being deceived by it's appearance. Put it down. This doesn’t concern you," Two Time replied, stepping closer until they were just inches apart.
"It was calling my name!" Elliot cried. "It asked me for help! I heard it—clear as day!"
"Really?" Two Time asked, their voice unreadable.
Elliot stared them down. Silence thickened the air, broken only by the faint jingle of chains. Sweat beaded on Elliot’s brow. He tightened his grip on the creature.
Two Time narrowed their eyes—
WHOOSH!
A blast of white mist engulfed Two Time causing them to slightly yelp.
Elliot gasped as he turned. Chance stood nearby, wildly spraying a fire extinguisher at Two Time.
"Chance?!"
"Come on, Elliot! This way!" Chance shouted, keeping the mist flowing.
Elliot jumped to his feet and ran, still holding the creature tightly. Chance paused long enough to hurl the fire extinguisher into the fog, aiming where he last saw Two Time.
"Let’s go!" he said, already dashing off. Elliot followed close behind.
Two Time fanned the mist aside with a flick of their wrist, eyes narrowing behind the smoke. Their hand rose slowly, deliberately, and then—
SWOOSH.
With a sharp motion, they brought their arm down, commanding the air itself. A gust of wind surged forward, tearing through the haze. The mist split like paper, scattering in swirling trails across the darkened hall. They looked around the area.
Elliot was gone.
Two Time's jaw clenched. They took a few slow steps forward, the sound of their boots echoing against the cold, metallic floor.
Then—
The world around them began to ripple. A soft hum filled the air. The lights above flickered violently before stretching into strange, geometric shapes. Walls warped and bent. Tiles underfoot shifted into birds, fluttering upward into a sky that hadn’t existed a second ago.
Color bled into the grayscale room—pinks, golds, blues—twisting through the air like ink in water. Shapes melted, reformed, broke apart again. Nothing stayed the same for more than a blink.
Two Time turned slowly, their black hair swaying behind them like liquid shadow. They looked around with a grim expression.
"...Why is this happening now?"
"Now they're attacking you in style? What the hell do they want?!" Chance shouted as he and Elliot sprinted down the hallway, making their way toward the exit.
"Also, what’s that thing you're holding? That's gotta be the creepiest cutest cat I’ve ever seen! Is it alright?" Chance asked, glancing over at Elliot mid-run.
"I don’t know what this poor thing is, but—we have to help it!" Elliot shouted back.
The two continued running when suddenly, the floor beneath them began to shift.
"What the—!? Ells, am I tripping, or is the floor different for you too?!" Chance yelled as the ground morphed into a completely new pattern.
"Wha—n-no! I see it too!" Elliot replied, both of them staring at the floor in disbelief as they kept running.
Just as they reached the exit, it vanished—morphing into an entirely different design. The world around them flickered and shifted like pages being flipped in a book. Elliot and Chance instinctively backed up. Chance reached out and grabbed Elliot’s shoulder, pulling them close.
"What the fuck is going on?" he muttered, eyes scanning their surroundings. Neither dared to move, paralyzed by confusion and fear. Elliot shivered slightly, still cradling the black cat in his arms.
Suddenly, the eerie sound of clanking chains echoed through the air. From the ground, green, zombie-like creatures began to emerge.
"What the hell are those things?!" Elliot shouted as he and Chance were quickly surrounded. The creatures were wrapped in chains and had on some kind of crowns, muttering strange chants as they closed in.
"This... this is a dream, right? I have to be dreaming," Chance whispered, fear creeping into his voice. The green creatures held crude, jagged swords, preparing to strike.
Both boys squeezed their eyes shut, bracing for impact.
Then—crash! Chains fell from above, slamming on top of the creatures. The monsters were crushed into the ground, bursting into brilliant explosions of dust, like fireworks. When Chance and Elliot blinked their eyes open, the monsters were gone.
"What the hell was that?!" Chance gasped, grabbing Elliot by the shoulders.
"I... I don’t know.." Elliot said, scanning their warped surroundings.
"That was close, wasn’t it?"
A voice behind them made the two turn. A yellow Robloxian approached, wearing a blue shirt and green pants. In one hand, they held a glowing yellow egg; in the other, a black chain—identical to the one that had just saved them.
"But don’t worry—you’re safe now! S-sorry it took me a minute to get here!" they added, a little nervously.
Elliot blinked, and Chance stared as well. The Robloxian’s gaze dropped to the small black cat in Elliot’s arms.
"Oh, thank goodness! You rescued The Spectre for me! I was so worried about him!" they exclaimed, hurrying over to Elliot. They dropped the chain gently and stroked the creature’s forehead with care.
"I-is he your cat?" Elliot asked, watching how gently the stranger tended to him.
"Ah—no. He’s a friend of mine! I don’t o-own him," they said quickly, waving a hand dismissively.
"He was calling out to me—I think. I could hear his voice in my head," Elliot blurted.
The yellow Robloxian smiled softly.
"Ah, I see. That must mean you’re the one he’s chosen."
Silence lingered for a moment before the Robloxian continued.
"Do you both go to Bloxian School? You look about my age, m-more or less?"
"Who... are you?" Chance asked, attempting to sound defensive, though his curiosity was obvious.
"Oh! My apologies, I should probably introduce my—"
Before they could finish, more chains erupted from the ground—this time glowing with the same green hue as the monsters. They didn’t look friendly.
Chance and Elliot stepped closer together, while the yellow Robloxian turned to watch the new threat emerge. Then, they looked back at the two with a calm expression.
"Forgive me—but that might have to wait a bit!"
With a swift motion, they tossed their glowing egg into the air and spun around, dragging their foot along the ground to draw a glowing circle. As the circle completed, they held both of their hands out, catching the egg as it fell.
"P-please excuse me! I promise this won’t take long!"
Suddenly, the egg burst open in a blinding flash of golden light, causing Chance and Elliot to shield their eyes. Glimmering ribbons shot out alongside the light, wrapping around the other Robloxian as they were completely absorbed by the radiance.
With a graceful spin, the ribbons began to swirl around the Robloxian’s body. They coiled tightly around their legs, and with a stomp of both feet, their pants transformed instantly. The magical process continued—ribbons snaking around their arms and torso, reshaping their entire outfit in a dazzling transformation.
A final ribbon floated gently around their waist, tying itself into a neat bow. The Robloxian reached for the last drifting ribbon as it shimmered and shifted into a hat. They placed it carefully on their head, a bright gem resting at the center, gleaming brilliantly. Then, they landed, their transformation complete.
A gust of wind swept outward as Chance and Elliot opened their eyes—stunned. The Robloxian had changed completely; they hardly looked like the same person at all. The two stared in awe as the figure launched into the air with a single effortless jump.
High above, the transformed Robloxian spotted more green creatures appearing, tangled in chains that had erupted from the ground. With another mid-air spin, they summoned what looked like a million floating muskets, each one glinting with magical energy. Taking a firm stance in the air, they raised a hand high—then brought it down swiftly.
Every musket fired at once.
A barrage of golden bullets rained from the sky, looking like falling stars. As each bullet hit the ground, it erupted into a massive explosion, blasting the green creatures apart and engulfing them in thick clouds of smoke.The wind blew as Chance and Elliot watched on the sidelines.
"That’s... amazing," Elliot breathed, stunned. Chance stood speechless beside him.
The world began to warp again—shifting until they were back in the original dark area.
"We’re back!" Chance cheered, both him and Elliot giggling in relief.
The transformed Robloxian landed gracefully in front of them, back turned. Elliot stepped forward to speak—but someone else landed with a crack on a nearby pile of planks. It was Two Time, glaring directly at the yellow Robloxian.
"The killer escaped. If you want to finish it now, you’d better head that way—quickly!" the yellow one said gently, pointing off into the distance.
Two Time didn’t respond—just kept staring.
"I won’t mind if you take it this time," they added softly.
"I still have unfinished business here." Two Time replied, eyes flicking to Elliot, still holding the cat.
Chance immediately stepped in front of Elliot protectively. The yellow Robloxian took a small step forward.
"You don’t understand, do you? I’m telling you—I’m willing to take this with a grain of salt." they said, tone sharpening.
Two Time stared at them. The Robloxian's smile twitched slightly.
"Honestly, don’t you think it’d be better if we didn’t do this right here..." they glanced briefly at Chance and Elliot before looking back at Two Time, "...right now?"
Two Time didn’t move, but their glare didn’t fade either. Chance stood his ground, shielding Elliot. A long silence passed.
Then, Two Time finally turned on their heel, facing the opposite direction. They stood still for a small moment before jumping off the planks, vanishing behind them. Chance and Elliot exhaled in sync, both relieved. They looked to the yellow Robloxian, who turned to them once more—still smiling, as if nothing had happened.
The three sat in front of the exit door as the yellow Robloxian seemed to be healing the black cat with some kind of power. Their hands stretched out, glowing with a golden light that radiated softly. After a moment, they lowered their hands to their lap, and the cat’s many eyes blinked open. It sat up before the three, drawing a small giggle of excitement from Elliot and Chance as the creature moved.
“Thank you, Noob, for saving me,” the creature said, turning to face the yellow Robloxian- Noob.
“Oh, I’m not the one you should be thanking! They saved you—I was just passing by!” Noob giggled, gesturing toward Chance and Elliot. The creature then shifted its gaze to the two.
“Much thanks to both of you. I am The Spectre.” the cat responded, bowing slightly in front of them.
“Were you the one calling for our help?” Elliot asked, placing a hand over his chest.
“That’s right, Elliot Builder.” Elliot gasped softly in shock.
“And you as well, Chance.” the cat added. Chance blinked in surprise.
“Woah—hold on! H-how do you know our names?” Chance asked, raising a hand to his face.
“I came here because I have a favor to ask of you two,” The Spectre replied, flicking its tail gently. Elliot and Chance exchanged a glance before looking back down at the cat.
“What do you mean?” Elliot questioned.
“I want you both to make contracts with me—and become Magical Survivors!”