Chapter Song: It Only Gets Much Worse - Nate Ruess
That week at school, the couple hadn't actually announced their relationship or anything, they just held hands all the time. They linked arms in the hallways and laced fingers in the classrooms. Carlos was a lefty, and since they sat side-by-side, the two were able to hold hands in class and continue to do work.
The battle with Kevin was a secret, so naturally, the story spread like wildfire. People flocked to the pair and begged to see Cecil's tattoos move. Of course, he couldn't turn them down. While rolling up his sleeves, the crowd would press tighter to catch a glimpse of the wriggling purple lines. He would chuckle every time someone asked to touch them. In the end, he would back up towards Carlos, join hands, and walk off towards class with a sort of satisfied resignation.
Unfortunately, this bliss wouldn't last long.
...o0o...
One afternoon, the lovers were cuddling together atop City Hall, talking. Just talking, not about anything in particular. Carlos was just so happy. He felt that this kind of happiness shouldn't even exist, it was so strong, so pure. And he wouldn't trade understanding of all the science in the world for it.
The pair was interrupted by the sound of the trap door opening. Since no one else (that they knew of) knew about their secret spot, Carlos turned, and he felt Cecil do the same.
He felt Cecil stiffen. "Carlos. That's city council." His voice was but a whisper, a warning. Carlos studied the many people emerging from the door. Once they were all gathered on the roof, they spoke in unison.
"We saw your stunt a week ago with the tentacles. We see all, and we worry for the sake of our town. Let's get straight to business. We are concerned for our little town. Your tentacles are a threat."
"Why are they a threat? They haven't manifested physically since the battle." Cecil interrupted.
"It seems that they only become an extension of your body while protecting something. Someone. Other than yourself." All of the members- he couldn't tell how many, turned to look at Carlos, who gulped. A threat? What world they do about it?
"It is our duty, on behalf of Night Vale, to rid ourselves of this threat" they continued in unison. Carlos felt several limbs wrap around him from behind. "Therefore, we must send Carlos away, and reeducate everyone of his existence. This way, we can guarantee we will be safe from your wrath." They all gestured to the tentacles now bundled around Carlos.
"Why can't you just take my tentacles? Or be sure Carlos isn't threatened?" Cecil asked furiously.
"We considered it, but frankly, this is much easier. You have until midnight to say goodbye."
With that, city council disappeared in a puff of smoke, and the couple was left to their own devices.
