I'm not saying it gets any easier, but it gets more bearable.
I've been doing what I can to help. Some days are harder than others. But it's better to keep busy.
And even though it's hard sometimes...
I'm glad I did it.
Because now, I can look them in the eye.
And tell them how it is.
Just because they're all not dead doesn't mean it's okay to treat people as if they're less than human.
It's a good feeling.
It's Halloween now.
Costumes, candy, and parties.
But I'll be damned if I'm going out alone.
I won't be dressing up as a robot again.
I refuse.
I open my dresser as I begin to don my new costume in my dorm room. I take a deep breath and release it. The outfit isn't half bad. I think. I'm a little disappointed with the mask, however.
I frown and try to fix the problem. I reach into a box and find a piece of cardboard. I tear off a section and tape it over the top. It's a crude solution, but it works. I step away from the mirror and survey my handiwork. I'm a ghost.
I step out of my room, and I walk down the hallway, heading towards the dining hall, where all of our friends will soon be gathering.
Halloween... is now. 'It's time to party!'
-as they say.
"You're looking very handsome, Eric." a familiar sight says, smiling at me from across the table.
Lo and behold.
"Son? Are you ready to go trick-or-treating?"
I look at the older man. He's dressed in a black suit and white shirt. He's wearing a red tie, and he's holding a cane. I look at the man's face. His hair is gray, and he's wearing a pair of thick glasses. I sincerely can't discern as to what he's actually dressed as, so I just squint my eyes and give up on trying altogether.
The halls are filled with a sea of costumes, some of which are extremely creative. I see a few robots, some aliens, some werewolves, vampires, ghosts, pirates, princesses, knights, ninjas, skeletons, witches, wizards, fairies, angels, demons, zombies, skeletons, and a couple of clowns.
Actual clowns, mind you.
There's also one guy who's just standing there, wearing nothing but his underwear. I'm not sure why, but I want to laugh at the thought of him. I'm not laughing at the fact that I'm not the only one to have noticed, but others sure are. Once I notice the pensive stare of my dad, waving his hand side to side as he goes about it, I groan and sigh in the midst of it all.
Reluctantly, I take a few stomps towards him. However, as I begin to do so, I collide unknowingly onto somebody, knocking them aside. I look to their direction, but I can't make it out.
"Ow!"
I hear someone shout in pain. I look around.
"What was that?" I ask myself.
I turn back to look, but I can't quite tell.
"Whoa! Watch it!"
Another person shouts as they stumble back.
"Are you alright?"
I instinctively look at the gleam of my Pip-Boy's screen, but before I do so, an icy, cold hand grabs a hold of the same wrist its on. The two of us both freeze for a moment. I feel a slight tugging sensation. The other person looks up and sees the source.
"Oh... sorry."
The person starts to apologize, as he pulls away from the white cloth of my costume. I don't really know what to say. I don't even know if I should. Daring to look back up, I come face to face with a pale, old man. Hairs about as grey, and piercing blue eyes to boot. He's well-groomed and dressed with a rather lavishly black coat, in addition to a matching cape. Funnily enough, his resemblance to an actual vampire is striking, even more so with that albino pigmentation all over his skin.
He gives me a smile, and it seems to be genuine. The twin fangs, I mean. From this angle, I can't really tell, or focus with the room being noisy as is.
"Um..."
I try to get out something witty, but the words escape me. I've seen this person before, but the thought eludes my synapses too.
"I'm terribly sorry."
I look at the man's eyes, and I can see the confusion and apprehension in them. I decide to let the matter drop, and we move on to the next thing swiftly.
"It's alright." I raise both hands defensively out of embarrassment. "It's a rough crowd out here, is all."
The old gentleman nods in agreement. We continue with our ways, and I keep a distance away from the ensuing crowd. I think he might just be a little bit nervous. I'm not sure why, though. I'm a little surprised he didn't recognize me, and then again, he could very easily just not have known who I am.
I guess it doesn't really matter either way. I'm just glad he didn't try anything. I approach my old man at the table, where he's sitting. He's got his head down, writing something into his notebook. I'm about to speak when I notice the figure of another man, who appears to have been observing the whole time.
My father notices my presence as well, and he raises his head. I'm not sure how to react, but he smiles at me, his usual calm demeanor intact. I'm not sure if it's the act of smiling, but the man who was watching the whole time, the one who had his hand on my father's shoulder, now lets go of it.
"Derek McMillan." My dad gestures towards him. "This is Derek. We were talking earlier."
"Hello." I extend a hand towards him.
"Nice to meet you." he shakes my hand.
"Likewise. I was wondering if I could ask you some questions." my dad looks back towards him.
"About what?" Derek asks curiously.
"You're a writer, right?"
"Yes," Derek says as he looks back towards me. "I write stories. I also dabble in poetry, essays, and journalism as well. But my main passion lies in the genre of fantasy."
I nod. "I've read your work. It's good."
He smiles at that. "Thank you."
"I'd like to know more about the world you live in. You know, the general idea behind the story."
He looks at me again, and I feel a slight pressure on my wrist. I look back and forth between the two of them, trying to make sense of what's going on. What are they doing? He seems to be giving off a certain vibe, a feeling that I can't quite put my finger on.
Is it a threat, or is it a warning?
"Well, if that's all..." Derek trails off, and I look back at him. He seems to be looking past me, and I look in that direction, with Derek himself taking off by his lonesome. There are a lot of people in the room, and it takes a while for me to realize that they all seem to be staring at me. Why is everyone looking at me so strangely, and with such a strange expression on their faces?
I look over to see my father, and he seems to be taking a sip from his glass. He gives me an odd smile that I can't decipher. Then, he points at the seat opposing him.
"Sit down, son."
I sit in the chair, and he does the same. Then, he looks across the table.
Silence.
I don't say a word. The silence continues. I stare straight ahead, and he stares right back. I'm not sure how much longer this will last.
I'm not sure how long I'll be able to withstand the gaze. I'm not sure why I'm being stared at. I'm not sure why I'm the only one who's sitting here, in the middle of the cafeteria. I'm not sure why I'm the center of attention, really. It feels like an eternity, but finally, he breaks the silence.
"So, what do you want to know, exactly?"
After looking down briefly, I muster up the courage to meet him in the eyes once more.
"I dunno. You tell me." I reply back with a straight face, easing up as my back arches in a stiff manner.
"Okay then."
I wait for him to continue.
"Tell me something."
"Like?"
"Anything."
"Alright."
"...Have you ever thought about the future, son? About the world that's to come, the one we're building now?"
"Of course. I think about it every day."
"Really? How often do you imagine the world of tomorrow, the one where the bombs have fallen and the cities were destroyed, but now everything has changed?"
"...I kinda miss the sunrise, every now and then." I reply, sarcastic.
"You're a smart boy, aren't you?"
"I try."
"You know, I heard from Director Jones himself that you've outperformed every other Junior around the block, you've even had the time to develop your own personal pet project on the side.
What was it...
A...ah-"
"Protectron. It's a Protectron. One of the later models, too." I call out from the other side.
"Right...Do you remember the first time you saw the sun?"
"Yeah." I nod. "When I was little."
"Did you feel a sense of fear, when you looked upon the morning light?"
"No."
"You're a brave boy, Eric. I admire you for that."
"Thanks."
"But what if I told you that the world of today, our present world, is just a prelude, the beginning. A stepping stone towards the world of tomorrow, the world that's to come?"
I shrug simply.
"You'd probably laugh in my face, and call it a joke. But what if I said that the world of tomorrow is already here, right in front of us. That it's all around us, and that it's happening right now. What would you say to that?"
I look back towards him, and I can't help but feel like I'm being interrogated. I can't help but feel that I've done something wrong, that I've broken some kind of unwritten rule.
"...What are you getting at?"
He smiles at me, and it takes me a while to realize that he's actually smiling at me. I smile back at him. He looks at me, and he seems to be considering his next words carefully.
"I'm going to show you, son. Just a glimpse, to get your attention. And then, I'm going to take it away from you."
He puts his hand over his mouth, and he shakes his head. I look back into his eyes, and he doesn't seem to be joking. This guy isn't messing around.
"Just a second ago, I asked you to tell me anything. So, why don't you answer my question, instead? Why don't you tell me how you really feel, son? Tell me how much you hate the way things are, and how much you want to change them. I'm sure that I'm not the only person in this room who feels the same. Everyone wants to see the world, son. We all want to live in the future. The world of tomorrow. Isn't that right?"
I'm speechless. I'm not sure how much longer I'll last.
"I want to know what you think, son. I want to know what's in your heart. I want to know what's in your mind. I want to know what you want to do, what you want to become. I want to know what you want to do with your life, son. It's important to me, to know these things. I want to know, because I care about you."
"..."
"And I know you, son. I know you. I know you better than anyone else does. I know that you're a good kid, a smart kid. I know that you're strong, and that you're courageous. I know you're a good friend, that you're loyal, that you're trustworthy, that you're sincere. I know that you're an honest, decent, caring young man."
"..."
"So, you might as well tell me. You might as well let yourself go. Let your true feelings out. Because, you're the one who knows you best."
"I- what?"
"Think of the world of tomorrow, Eric. Think of the world we're building, right now. I'm asking you to think of the world that's yet to come. What would you like to see happen? How can we make the world of tomorrow, a place where everyone is happy? How can we build the world of tomorrow, a world that is filled with love, that is filled with peace, that is filled with hope?"
"W...what?"
"Tell me what you think, Eric. What you would like to see in the world of tomorrow. What would you like to accomplish?"
I'm still lost for words.
I'm still trying to process everything that's been said to me.
"I'm waiting for you, son. I'm waiting for you to answer my questions. What would you like to see in the world of tomorrow?"
It's like he's talking to someone else. I'm just watching him, listening to him. I'm not even really thinking. I take a while longer as I sigh in deeply, closing my eyes. "...I wonder how it must have been..."
He waits patiently, and I feel myself starting to relax.
"I suppose it was something along those lines, wasn't it, son?"
He smiles at me, and I can feel his face relaxing.
"Working for Vault-Tec. Living it up, all high and mighty up the second floor, where ALL THE PEOPLE ARE."
I berate, gesturing flashing lights with both hands to demonstrate my point. I didn't even give him the time of day for what comes next.
"Kids my age- they're happily living, and working- and playing fine with their parents! AND WHAT THE HELL DO I HAVE TO SHOW FOR IT?! A PAYCHECK?! MY OWN FUCKING BANK ACCOUNT AT AGE 15- WHILE YOU'RE PERCHED UP HIGH IN THAT FUCKING IVORY TOWER OF YOURS!?"
Just then, I had barely even realized my voice being raised to the same amplitude as the crowds nearby. I'm shocked to hear myself screaming, but I don't stop. I'm not sure what I'm saying, or why I'm so angry. I'm not sure what I'm doing. I'm not sure what I'm feeling. I'm not sure what I'm going to do. But I'm sure about one thing. I'm not leaving. I've got nowhere to go. I can't get any farther away from this guy. I can't run. I'm trapped. And I know I'll be stuck here until I die. So I might as well make the most of it.
"You're right, son. You're absolutely right. But you know what I think? I THINK THIS IS FINE."
I look back at him, sinking my arms away from the cold, metal table.
"This is all right. This is just what we need. We're all right, aren't we, son?"
I stay silent. He's being delusional.
"We're okay, yes. Yes, we're all right. I mean, you're young, you're strong, you're healthy, you're capable, you're intelligent. You're resourceful. You're a survivor. You're a man. You're a man, Eric. You're a man. You're a man. You're a man, son."
But I sure as shit don't feel like one, especially in this white drape that's haphazardly wrapped around me up to this point. It feels like I'm drowning in the middle of a crowd of people who don't even notice me.
They just glare.
"I'm sorry. Did you say something, son?"
"..."
*sigh*
"I don't know-
What do you think?"
Leaving him be, I head off. It didn't matter where, I just needed to be away. Away, away, away. I felt like I was losing my mind. I couldn't believe the things I'd said to him. I just wanted to leave. I didn't want to talk to anyone anymore. I just wanted to go home. I just wanted to disappear.
I walked aimlessly. I wandered, and I stumbled. I looked at everything, and I saw nothing. I was lost. I was alone. I was confused. I was scared. I was terrified. To make matters worse, the large projector on the wall finally displays some jarring news on Halloween. The screen shows a news announcement from none other than Tour Guide Emily.
"Attention, Vault 74 residents! I'm Emily, your tour guide for the evening. Today, Vault 74 has announced that a black rain, likely caused by the irradiated material and carbon from widespread fires being spewed into the upper atmosphere begins to come down in areas across the United States and likely the globe, causing a spike in radiation levels in affected areas. The Overseer asks for everyone's cooperation. Please remember to take care of each other. I hope to see you all again soon."
I feel myself starting to relax. I'm glad to hear she'll still be giving out the same old announcements, and that they won't change. That's when it happens. A voice, deep and gravelly, breaks through. It's a familiar, yet eerie, voice.
"...and he's coming. He's coming. He's coming. He's coming. He's coming. He's coming. He's comin'..."
I turn around, and there, standing in front of me, is a giant. He's got dark skin and long dreadlocks. He wears tattered clothes, and his feet are bare.
I recognize that voice.
"HOLY SHIT..."
I can't help but jolt back in terror rather violently. I look over, and realize that most of the vault is looking right back. And now, here we are.
"Hey man, what's wrong? You're acting weird."
I try to shake my head, and then a wave of nausea hits me.
"Mr. Pancakes... I'm sorry- you got me going there for a moment." I slouch my shoulders to ease myself.
"No worries. You know how it goes. No one knows what this place will do to you sometimes. You just gotta keep it together. Keep moving forward." He goes, "You're doing good."
"Thanks." I answer, trying my best to not point out that his costume not only fits him on a physical level, but a spiritual one as well.
"Nice costume." I point at the fat man's rags, which have been ripped apart, revealing a bright red shirt underneath.
"I'm just getting started."
I don't know why I'm so surprised. I knew this guy was different.
"I'm Bob. Mr. Bob Pancakes. What's your name?"
"Eric."
"I'm glad to meet you, Eric. I'm sorry to say, though, that I'm gonna need you to move along. I'm in a hurry."
"What do you mean?"
"I just came to warn ya. There's something else happening. Something big. I've heard people talking about it, and I think it might be related to the black rain. It's bad news. I'm not sure if I should tell ya more, or just leave it up to your own judgement. I just wanted to let you know, and to wish you the best of luck. I hope I didn't scare ya too much, but I thought I'd better come and check in with ya. I just wanted to make sure you were okay."
I ponder for a moment at this seemingly deranged person, only to respond about the time we first met: "Look, if this is about that food spillage from a while back, I get it, you know? Living it underground can take a toll on people, and that's understandable."
Bob nods, and says, "Yeah, I understand. That's all behind us now, and it's all water under the bridge. But I'm telling you, things are really starting to happen down here. Things that I'm not supposed to talk about. I'm afraid I'm going to have to ask you to please go. I'm sorry, I'm running late, and I don't want to keep the rest of the group waiting."
I sigh, and then I notice the way he's looking around the vault. I follow his gaze, and I'm shocked to see that the Vault has gone from being a normal, mundane, and boring environment, to a place that's completely out of the ordinary. It's like the whole room is glowing. The walls, the ceiling, the floor, everything. The glow is a brilliant white, and it's emitting a warm, soothing light. I glance over at Bob, and he seems to be staring at me.
"You alright, man?"
"Oh, yeah. Yeah, I'm fine. Just a bit of an adrenaline rush, is all."
He smiles and says, "I'll give ya some space, then. Take care of yourself, and keep the faith."
Suddenly, a little curious-looking toddler bumps onto Bob's left foot, with the later going: Iggy! Hey there, sweetheart!" Bob exclaims. He picks up his son, and gives him a kiss on his forehead. Then, he puts his hand on his shoulder, and says to me, "See ya soon, pal."
With a smile on his face, Bob turns around and walks away. Iggy is watching his father walk off. His eyes are wide open, and his mouth is hanging slightly agape. He looks at me, and I look back. He has a funny expression on his face. Iggy has medium skin, his father's black hair, and hazel eyes. He looks just like him, too. Striking resemblance and everything.
Albeit, with less plump on the sides.
I march on, stumbling upon a few familiar faces at the Lounge, where the bustling itself is worse off from when I was outside. They're my classmates from school, of course, but they've got their own lives to worry about. They don't need to be worrying about me, too. So, I make a point to ignore them. It's best to stay as far away from them as possible. Even if it's a friendly conversation, it's still a distraction, and it could cause problems. But, eventually, I can't help myself. I can't resist the urge to just stay away, like a normal person because-
"ERIC! Over here, buddy!" A voice calls out to me.
A guy, with short black hair, wearing a black shirt, with a red tie, and a pair of khaki pants, is waving to me. He's standing next to a girl, with short blonde hair, and she's wearing a black top, with a yellow skirt, and a black blazer. She's also holding a black purse, with a black shoulder strap. They are with the others, and they seem to have noticed me, so I approach them. When we get closer, the girl- Sofia Bjergsen looks at me, and then the guys. Her eyes widen, and then she quickly averts her eyes.
The guy, who's the one that called to me, steps forward, and says, "Eric, right? So, what brings you to the Lounge, bud?"
I say, "Robert." Then, at everybody: "Everyone. What are you two supposed to be, anyways?"
Sofia and Robert, both of them, are smiling nervously. Sofia is looking at me, and then the floor. Robert is giving a nervous chuckle.
Then, another guy, who's sitting in a chair, yells out, "Hey, Eric, it's been a while. How's your life, man?"
I turn to look, and see who it is. The other guy, who's sitting in a different chair, is Tommy. He's a tall, skinny, and dark haired, and he's dressed in a white t-shirt, and a pair of blue jeans. I swear- it's as if none of these guys are even trying at this point. He's looking straight at me, and he's grinning.
Tommy gives a hearty laugh, and continues, "Oh, yeah, I remember you, kid. You were always a weirdo, but you had a good heart. And you knew how to party. You'll fit in here, I'm sure of it."
I look at him, and frown disparagingly.
Darling Walsh, the resident tomboy, butts in as well: "Yeah, you're a smart boy. You've got a good head on your shoulders, and you know when to keep your mouth shut. You should do well here, and I hope you stick around. Oh, and you might want to talk to some of the people over there. They're a little more mature than the kids you usually hang out with. And they can teach you a lot about being an adult, too. But don't worry- you won't have to deal with any of them, or anyone else for that matter. We like our privacy. It keeps things interesting, and lets us feel comfortable. Now, what are you doing in town, anyway? Did someone die, maybe? Is somebody sick, or something?"
She pauses, and looks at me, and then back down.
Jennifer politely stops in: "Nope, nothing. Just a few friends, and family coming to visit, that's all. You could say that they came here, instead of going home."
Darling Walsh, the resident tomboy, nods her head in agreement. The others then turn their attention towards another group of teenagers we aren't familiar with, and begin talking amongst themselves.
Wolfgang Munch points out: "What's up with all of those guys, anyways? Are they new here, too?"
Tommy: "Maybe. Or, maybe, they just came here to kill time, and meet girls. Either way, it's not my business, and I don't care. Besides, we all live here. Why would anybody come here, and try to make a difference, anyway? This place is perfect. It's peaceful and calm, and nobody bothers each other here. So, why bother changing anything, right? Right, Robert?"
Robert, who's sitting next to Sofia, says, "Right, Tommy. That's exactly what I think, too. Nobody wants change, and everybody likes the status quo. Everybody is happy, and content, and satisfied. If you wanna change, and make a big fuss about it, and get into trouble with everyone, go ahead. See ya, later!"
And with that, he turns and walks away. Sofia, who's been listening to Robert, sighs and shakes her head.
"That's Robert. He's a jerk. A real asshole. He's always trying to act tough, but deep inside, he's a coward. What a loser. No wonder his family left him, and he went to Oasis Springs. Good riddance to bad rubbish, I'd say. Let's go, Sofia. I'm hungry. I want to eat, and listen to music, and dance. Then, let's see if there are any hot boys around to flirt with. Sound good?" Luna Villareal recommends.
Sofia responds, "Sounds good, Luna. But, before that, can you help me with something? Do you remember this guy named Robert?" She asks, pointing her finger at a tall boy, who's walking by.
Luna laughs and shakes her head.
"You're kidding, right? Of course, I do. He's a total douchebag, who's obsessed with being popular, and being accepted. And, since he's a dickhead, who doesn't like being alone, and having people hate on him, he's constantly looking for ways to attract attention, and make himself look better. You know how assholes are. They're so pathetic, and disgusting, and annoying. I mean, seriously, what a freakin' idiot. Can you believe I used to hang out with such a dumbass? Yeah, I'm glad I'm out of that, now. I'm with a much cooler crowd, and I'm happy with my life, without him. I'm never going to be friends with someone like that. Not ever. Never."
Hugo, Luna's brother, who's standing beside Sofia, and behind Luna, says, "Yeah, I agree. I'm with a lot of cool guys, and I've got a bunch of really awesome friends. I don't need some stupid, insecure, weirdo, who's obsessed with being liked, and being popular. He's a loser. I don't want to be friends with losers, and I definitely won't date them. That's a no-brainer. I wouldn't even give these morons a second thought, because they are nothing more than worthless, insignificant, trash."
I fold my arms indignantly: "Say it, don't spray it."
He shrugs.
Darling: "Whatever, man. Whatever. Don't get your panties in a twist. It's not worth it. These bitches have it way too easy, anyway. They just don't realize it yet. If it were up to me, I'd totally kick their asses. But, unfortunately, it's not. So, I'll take a pass. Besides, Sofia is right about one thing. This dude Robert has it out for her, and he's trying to ruin her reputation, which is a major crime. We should stop him, and set the record straight. Right, Sofia?"
She nods.
Luna says, "That's true, Darling. I think it's a very good idea, to help Sofia out. She's been through a lot, and she deserves a little support. But, I also think it's a bad idea to waste our time, when we could be doing something fun, or productive, instead. Like, say, hanging out with a group of cool friends, and having a good time."
John Smith adds, "Plus, if we do that, then all those other people will come over to us, and try to join in on this conversation, like, 'Hey, Luna! What's going on? Why aren't you talking to me?' And, what happens next? You know it. Then, they're gonna start asking questions, and giving advice, and making comments, and acting condescending, and making demands, and insulting, and demanding, and complaining, and telling us how things should be, and blah, blah, blah."
Hugo turns to me and goes on rambling: "Hey, Eric. How much is a ticket to go down there, to the Virtual Reality Room, and play VR games, and stuff, huh? Is it expensive, or cheap, or free, huh? Because, I can't afford a single ticket, and I don't wanna spend money, so, I'm thinking, maybe, I can find someone else who wants to go, and split the cost with them. Maybe, I can ask Sofia and Luna to chip in a few bucks, as well. Can you hook us up with tickets, please?"
I tilt my head, off to the side, desperately trying anything that could help steer this conversation away from here.
But then, when I wanted copper...
I struck gold.
She's dressed as a cat.
Dressed.
As.
A.
Cat.
I fucking grin.
I can't help it.
Bella Goth is wearing a red, white, and blue striped sweater, which clings to her body, and a pair of black leggings. Her face is covered by a gray, furry mask. She's also wearing a pair of white, fuzzy, cat-like ears.
I can't help but smile. She's dressed as a cat.
Dressed.
As.
A.
Cat.
I laugh.
I can't help myself.
My body may be present here, but my mind... hoo boy...It's definitely elsewhere alright.
Sofia looks at me, smiles back, and continues.
She suggests something for Trick or Treating: "You know, why not just go around and collect candy, instead of buying it? If you have a bag, then everyone would know that you were doing a trick or treating thing, right? It's a lot less work than going out and finding a bunch of bags, filling them with candy, and then going door to door, handing out your loot. Plus, you'd get way more candy, anyway. They'll only throw a couple of pieces of candy, if they're feeling generous, and then they might toss in a little bit of change, too."
"Oh, yeah. That's true," Hugo agrees. "That's true, indeed. But, you know, if we're going to do this, then let's make it an actual Halloween party, instead of a regular old trick or treat event. We can invite some of our friends, and have a good time. Like, say, we can rent out one of the big halls in town, like the Community Center, and set up a dance floor. And then, we can put on costumes, and have a costume contest, and all that. What do you think?"
He turns to me, and asks, "Eric, what do you think about all that, huh?"
I turn to him, and ask, "You know that we're kinda lacking in space for that sorta thing, right? Take a look around you for a moment. THIS IS THE COMMUNITY CENTER."
Hugo turns to me, and says, "Yeah, I figured that. I was thinking, though, maybe, if we rented out a hall, and had a costume contest, and all that, then, like, even if there weren't enough people to fill up a whole hall, like, say, we could still have a good time, and hang out together, and stuff, and, y'know, do a few tricks, and give out treats, and all that."
"I'm sure that you could, but I don't really see the point in having a costume contest, and all that. The point is to go out and find candy. You can't win a costume contest, anyway. All you can do is lose, and embarrass yourself, and ruin the fun, because no one will want to come near you. At least, I don't, and I'm not trying to sound mean, but, I don't wanna go through the trouble, and I don't wanna waste my money, either."
John, makes a rather good point there, and I have to agree with him. I've heard from others, before, how they would try to show off their costumes, and everyone else would laugh at them, and call them names, and stuff. It's just a stupid idea, and I don't like it. If someone wants to wear a ridiculous outfit, or a funny hat, or something, and has a good reason for wearing it, I'll applaud them, and I won't laugh. But, I wouldn't be surprised if a lot of people laughed, and made fun of those who did.
"How about this- we split into groups of two, and one group goes out, and one stays here, and the other group does the trick or treat thing. Then, after the first group comes back, the second group gets to do the trick or treat thing, too. How's that sound?" Luna suggests rather abruptly.
"It sounds good," Jennifer tells her. "But, I don't really think that anyone should get left out. I'm sure that a lot of kids, and even adults, are going to want to join in on the action. I think that we should let everybody participate. We might as well, since we're already doing it. What do you think, Hugo?"
He thinks about it, and asks, "What if I make a deal with John, so he's one of our judges. That way, I can keep an eye on him, and I don't think that I'd ever trust him to be fair. I think that's a good idea."
I'm not quite sure what Hugo means by "keep an eye on me", but, I don't think that's a bad idea.
"If you're so sure about him, then why don't you two pair up? I'm sure you two make quite the couple." I add rather dryly, merely suggesting this as a moot point.
They both look over at each other, and give each other a nervous smile.
Jennifer says, "Okay, okay. Let's figure out who's gonna go with whom, and who's gonna stay behind. Who's with me, and who's with John?"
Luna looks down at herself, and blushes. Hugo is next. He's thinking, trying to remember, or something. Honestly, I can't really figure him out. He seems nice, and friendly, but, I guess I have no clue as to his true feelings. John's turn. He's smiling, a little bit smug, maybe. Hugo's turn again. He's grinning, and nodding. Luna's turn. She's looking at us, and she's biting her lower lip, and frowning. John's turn. He doesn't say anything, he just smiles a little more. Tommy's turn. He nods, and grins.
"What the hell is even happening right now?" I ask aloud.
Out of nowhere, Luna pushes Sofia towards me, and says, "Hey, baby! Come and dance with your Daddy!"
Sofia's eyes widen, and her cheeks flush, and her mouth opens slightly.
Luna's wearing a black mini skirt, which is very short, and a white tank top, which is also very tight, and low cut. Her breasts are bare, and her nipples poke through her shirt.
"Oh my god," Tommy mutters, staring at Luna's chest.
The three of them stand there, waiting for me. I look back at Sofia, unsure of what to make of this as she stands before me, and her hands are in her pockets, and her shoulders are slumped. Her face is flushed, and her lips are parted.
And her hair is a mess. It's a mess. She's standing in front of me, and we're not alone, and her hair is a mess.
"Right." I look away from the absentee, replying to the others: "I'm assuming that everyone's got their own 'ménage à deux' by now?"
There's a brief pause. Then, everyone nods, and grins. Everyone except Sofia, that is.
With that, each pair goes their separate ways throughout the living quarters, bags in hand for the sole purpose of our very first underground 'Trick Or Treating' event, hastily made up and put together on the fly, and with a lot of help.
As for Sofia, she's still with me. Away from the blaring crowds.
The night couldn't get more laudable than that.
Halloween is one of those instances where you know that people are going to be dressed up as weirdos, and freaks, and monsters, and demons, and vampires, and zombies, and ghosts, and witches, and werewolves, and pirates, and skeletons, and wizards, and all sorts of other things.
I mean, I'm not complaining. I like Halloween. I'm not saying that I'm not a fan of Halloween, I'm not. I'm not saying that I don't love it when the whole world becomes a massive circus. Actually, it's more synonymous with a carnival, if not anything. It's an excuse to dress up, and go to a party, and have fun.
But, Sofia's just being...
Well, Sofia's just being Sofia. Which is to say, a freak.
Weird. Different. Unusual. That's Sofia.
So, as I walk around, and talk to some of the kids, and try to figure out how I can possibly fit in, and make it work. I keep coming across Sofia. Who's just standing there. Smiling. Not moving. Just smiling. Like she's a ghost, or a specter. Or a banshee. Or a ghoul.
Whatever.
"Earth to Sofia." I call out.
Sofia turns to me.
"Yeah?" She asks, her eyes wide.
We're nearing the entrance to the living quarters, meandering around the desolate hallway.
"You okay? You seem kind of..." I trail off.
"Moody?" She finishes for me.
"Uh huh. Yeah. That. How are you feeling?" I ask, looking her over.
"Okay, I guess." She answers, shrugging her shoulders.
I take a step towards Sofia. "Hey," I tell her. "You're under no obligation to feel uncomfortable here. It's a holiday, so, we might as well take it for what it is, right?"
She looks at me. I look at her.
And then, I wait. I wait for her to speak. I watch as she bites her bottom lip, and glances away, before turning back to me, again.
"Right," she says.
"Good." I say, hands firmly placed against my hips, nearly forgetting the bag in hand as I nearly slip up like butter trying to catch it before it could kiss the ground.
Sofia, meanwhile, continues to stare at me, her mouth open slightly, the way a fish would be. I give a small smile, and turn away completely out of utter embarrassment. I continue to wander the halls, while Sofia, who had been following me, stops in the middle of the hall, and stands still, staring. I glance back, curious to see if she's going to follow me, but instead, she's stopped, mid-step. I stop too, and look down.
Her face has gone pale.
"Sofia? You good?" I ask of her.
She nods, slowly, and then, with her head hanging, she walks the rest of the distance to the doorway. I watch as she steps inside, and the door automatically closes itself behind her.
"Alright... I don't see any of our pals around." I take this time to survey the area thoroughly, akin to a hawk overlooking its territory for its next snack. "Guess they could've knocked on every single one of these doors around us by now..."
It's true. They were probably all out having a blast. The thought of it makes me want to run out of this place and go have a party of my own. But, first things first. Treats.
Heh.
Funny how that works.
"So, um..." I turn back around to Sofia. "Any suggestions on where you wanna go first, or something?"
The girl is frozen, as is the room.
"Um, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to... I wasn't expecting you to actually talk to me. I was just, uh, I'll go somewhere else, I guess..."
"Somewhere else? What are you, aloof? It's barely even close to midnight." I prove so by pointing the time on my Pip-Boy's screen, hued with bright, luminous green. "And our regular curfew's been extended. I for one, figured that you'd be leaping up and through the moon with joy by now." I question Sofia's inhibition here.
"No, I..." She shakes her head.
I look back at Sofia, who's still standing in the middle of the hallway, looking like a deer caught in headlights. Sofia herself looks a little sheepish, to be frank. She's clearly embarrassed, for some reason.
"I'm not really sure what I should do, anymore. I know it's rude to ignore people, but I can't help it. I get scared, sometimes. Scared, like maybe I won't be able to make it out. Or, I think about what's waiting for me, outside. And it's scary, thinking I might never see anyone again. It's hard to deal with, because I don't know what to do. I feel so alone, here, and it's only getting worse.
When we left, it was fine. But, now, it's different. Now, it's harder.
That's why, when I saw you, and heard your voice, it felt like a ray of hope. Like, if I could find someone, who cared, who wanted to hang with me, then maybe, it wouldn't be so bad.
But, it's too much."
Sofia stops talking, and stares at the floor. There's a long silence between the two of us.
"The way I see it, we've already been here for a full week." I explain to her simply. "We're better off down here then irradiating ourselves out there anyway, so... I get that. I get that it's hard. I mean, I live all by myself, and I...'FEEL FINE'."
"Yeah, I bet." Sofia laughs.
She smiles. But Sofia's face crumbles into a mask of sorrow, before she turns away.
"It's been a while since I've had a friend. A real friend."
"Hey, don't worry. I'm here. Your friend Luna already dictated THAT MUCH."
"You don't have to keep saying stuff like that." Sofia says, quietly.
"What, it's true though, isn't it?" I ask her.
"Uh, yeah." She nods. "But... I don't want to be a burden. You guys are doing such a great job, and it's just, I dunno, it's not fair. I'm a burden.
I'm a hindrance.
A distraction.
So, you know, I'll leave.
I don't want to bother you.
Or, I guess, hurt your feelings.
Sorry, it's just, it's been a rough couple of weeks, and it's gotten to be a habit. I'm sorry. I shouldn't say anything, but you deserve an explanation."
Before she can say any more, I cut her off: "Then tell me. Why did you even bothered interacting with me when we all first came down here? Actually- why'd you even give me this, anyway?"
I pull out the key Sofia gave me, then remind of her: "It's for a certain 'safe deposit box' of some sort, right? I've been meaning to find the time for a while now. You mind finally telling me where I can actually slot this sucker, or what?"
Sofia: "Oh, uh, well, I thought it would help. I mean, I didn't know how to use it, and I figured, it might come in handy, eventually. So, I made it. I'm not sure what it's supposed to do, exactly, but I'm sure it's important. I'm not sure why, either. It's not like I'm a rocket scientist, after all. I'm sure it's something good, though. I'm sure it's a very special thing, and I'm sure it has a purpose."
"Then where'd you get it?" I raise it up, right between her eyes: "Sofia, don't tell me that those demented hands belong to a local pickpocket now. They'll cut your arms off for something like that."
Sofia looks at the key. Then back at my face.
"No. No, I swear, I found it. I was walking around town back then, and it fell out of a window, and it must have landed on the ground, and I picked it up. That's all. Honest."
"Okay, okay. Fine. Whatever. Just, I still don't get it. If it's so damn valuable, and it's got a purpose, then, um, why don't you keep it yourself, instead of giving it to me? Why'd you even bother with me?" I inquire.
"Because I wanted to see if I could trust you. Because I wanted to know. I wanted to test myself. And because it's yours. I think it belongs to you. I mean, it does, doesn't it? I mean, it's a key to a safe, isn't it?"
"Yeah, it is. But it's not mine. I've never seen it before in my life. I know. I saw it, too. You're not lying to me are you?"
"Lying?" I raise my eyebrow, unsure of what to make of this. "Lying about what? The sky being yellow?"
She laughs. I chuckle.
We laugh together.
And I realize, I'm feeling a little better.
The two of us head towards a door, labelled as "Tinker".
"What kind of surname's 'Tinker', anyway?" I ask Sofia as she rings the doorbell.
This particular room belonged to a Mrs. Yasemin Tinker. She's one of the educators for our class, more specifically for the English Literature and Creative Writing classes. She is a middle-aged woman with dark hair and green eyes. She was a Freelance Writer for Hubris Comics, a comic book publisher that was well-known for their titular titles, 'The Silver Shroud' and 'Grognak the Barbarian'. I remembered reading a bunch of those comics back in the day, if I could even be obliged to call them that, and preferring the former or the latter.
Yasemin opens the door, and she sees Sofia.
"TRICK OR TREAT!" Sofia exclaims, and throws her arms open wide.
Yasemin's jaw drops. When we expected a look of casual surprise, it instead turns to shrieks of utter horror as our English teacher falls to her knees, clutching her chest, her mouth agape, and her body racked by uncontrollable spasms.
Yasemin instantly starts screaming, "AHHHHH! NO! OH MY GOD, IT CAN'T BE... PLEASE, NO, NOT AGAIN..."
Sofia and I get startled, helplessly looking back at one another.
Yasemin hyperventilates, sharpening her breaths while taking notice of what she's doing: "Oh, God. Oh, my God. I'm sorry. I'm so, so, so, so, so, so, SO, so, SORRY. I'm so, so, so, so, so, so, s— I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm, I'm-"
Sofia kneels to her eye level in an attempt to calm her down: "It's okay, Mrs. Yasemin, it's okay, it's okay, it's okay, it's okay, it's okay..."
I tug the white cloth of my ghastly costume, glancing both ways to ensure no one else has seen this debacle. Yasemin's voice is raspy, seemingly murmuring inaudibly while Sofia helps her up.
We're sorry, miss." I reassure her once she's fully steadied herself proper. "She- We didn't mean to scare you as such. Not to that extent, really."
"No, it's alright. I, I understand. Thank you, though. For your kindness. It's just a little bit of a shock, you know?" She pants back brushing the braid of hair behind her ear.
"Yeah. We know," Sofia agrees, before adding, "If you need some time to compose yourself, I can wait outside for a minute or two."
"N- No, I'll be fine. I, I should go, actually. I have a lot of work to do, you know? And, um, my daughter is waiting for me." Yasemin turns back towards the confines of her room, still actively recovering from such a sudden shock.
Sofia is surprised. "You never mentioned you had a daughter, Mrs. Yasemin. Who is she?"
"Olive. Olive Tinker. She's a very sweet girl, but she's a handful, I tell ya. I think she's a tad too much of a tomboy, don'tcha think?" Her eyes widen, demanding to know why we're both at her door: "Is there something wrong, young man?"
Yasemin's eyes are wide, her brow furrowed. If anything, we do owe her an explanation.
"It's nothing amiss, miss." I raise both hands. "We just thought that we'd do some trick or treatin', is all."
Sofia continues: "That's right, Mrs. Yasemin. Trick or Treating! You see, we've been doing it for Halloween and we wanted to continue with our tradition, so..."
Yasemin's eyebrows arch in a confused manner. The poor woman doesn't even realize what's going on.
"Oh, you guys are gonna make a killing on those candy sales!" The lady exclaims with delight, rushing back inside, only to come back with a plastic bag in hand, dumping candies into ours.
"Here, take these sweets. They're on us. Oh, and here's a couple of bucks, if you want to buy more. Thanks again, young man. Good night, Sofia. See you tomorrow. Come by any time. Okay?" She links her Pip-boy with ours shortly afterwards, making us a few dollars richer.
Yasemin gives Sofia another pat on her shoulder and leaves, closing her front door quietly behind her.
We walk this brief exchange off.
Sofia then admits: "That was a great idea. She seemed like a nice lady, and she'll probably forget about this whole thing in the morning. She's always in such a hurry, anyway. She's got no time to waste, y'know? She's a busy working mother, after all."
I nod in agreement, before continuing while digging through my candy bag: "Mhm-hmph. Ooooh! She even gave us Gumdrops, sweet! Literally, though. Branding it subtly with tiny font that says 'radioactive' wouldn't have deterred me for such a treat!"
Sofia smiles. "Gumdrops, eh? I'm not sure I would have tried them, myself. I mean, they're kinda... weird. But I bet she has a good reason for it. Like, maybe she's trying to keep her kid from being a total mess."
Sofia laughs. "Well, maybe you're right. There is a point to it all. I'll try one, just to be safe. I can't imagine her wanting her child to suffer, either."
"Sure- here, just try another." I hand Sofia the little Gumdrops box I'm holding, but reel it back at the last second.
On purpose. She looks up to me, slightly annoyed. "What? What is it now?"
"N- Nothing, really. Just, you know, something you said earlier."
"About me? That wasn't my fault. It's her own fault for telling me about her daughter." Sofia shakes her head. "It's her business, you know? If you have a problem, you should just say so. Don't play the blame game."
"What? No- I'll hand this to you, alright. When you tell me what getup you're dressed as." I wave around and about at Sofia's 'costume'- a black top, with a yellow skirt, and a black blazer. She's also holding a black purse, with a black shoulder strap.
"I mean- what are you even supposed to be!?" I exclaim.
"A girl," Sofia answers, simply.
"...A girl?" I barely hiss out.
"Yeah, a girl. A schoolgirl. You know, a cute, innocent little girl. Isn't it obvious, yet?"
"...No, it isn't. Not to me, it isn't. And don't call it a costume. It's a fucking outfit. Please, leave it alone."
Sofia sighs. "...Fine. Whatever. At least it's a cute look, though. Very cute. So cute it's almost funny. Almost."
"That is not the case!" I stomp my foot. "YOU CALL THAT- A COSTUME?! THAT'S JUST YOU IN PRACTICALLY REGULAR CLOTHING!"
"Whatever. Anyway, it's a cute look. More than enough to pass for a normal high schooler in these parts. Now, let's go. We've wasted far too much time already. The sooner we get there, the better."
"The sooner... I'm going to need a lot more convincing on that one..."
"You won't have to convince me of anything. All you have to do is come along with me. Come on, I'll take you to your next destination."
"Yeah... Because your guidance has been helpful thus far. 2 out of 10 of the rooms we visited had candy left in store, and that included Mrs. Tinker back there as well. What, you think your 'magic hands' can make a third?" I pedantically ask, like a grumpy old man lecturing her rebellious granddaughter.
Sofia rolls her eyes. "Okay, fine. But I still insist that you're coming, because I'm not taking no for an answer. I'm not letting anyone else do it, either. Especially not some punk kid who doesn't even have a place to stay, anyway. You're staying here, until I find a way to get you home. Deal?"
"What are you babbling on about, here? I go as I please!" I pipe up.
"And I'm saying, it's a deal. Now, follow me."
"So, you're just gonna drag me off by force, then? I mean, I can see how you'd want to, but I'm not so sure you're right about this."
"Just get moving, will you? I told you, I'm not letting you anywhere near those kids."
"Hey- wait, hold it right-" Before I can finish my sentence, Sofia clutches onto my right wrist tight, dragging me along for the ride.
"Ow! Hey- hey, what's with you!?"
"I said, stop talking. Or I swear, I'll break your arm, alright? I am not kidding." She keeps her grip on me, despite my attempts to shake her loose.
"But- but why? What's the point of all this? I mean, I know you said it's for my own good, but- you could have just given me a few Cotton candy bites, or something." I vehemently protest, but Sofia stops the momentum as we already arrive at our next destination.
"Pancakes." I point out sheepishly after handing Sofia her well deserved Gumdrops.
"What?"
"Pancakes. It's the surname of somebody, or something."
She scoffs. "...Yeah, yeah, whatever. Just keep quiet, okay?"
"Sure thing. Silent as a ninja, deadly as a fart, why not." I jeer as I jest. "At least I'm not the one exuberantly jump scaring the living daylights out of people."
"Don't be stupid. You don't scare anybody. You just look like a dumbass."
"FUC-" I raise my voice, but staring right back at Sofia, I get the stinging sense of apprehension about what might come next.
"Whatever. Ring the bloody doorbell already." I cross my arms, looking away in defeat.
Sofia rings the doorbell to the Pancakes residence.
No response.
"Well, don't just stand there. RING IT AGAIN." I pout, shooting at the hallway with an empty void of a glare.
The chime can be heard once again, but after a momentary silence...
Nothing.
Sofia turns around to look back, and her eyes widen once mine stumbles upon hers.
"What is it now-"
But that's when I see it.
The door.
The door's left unlocked, based on the panel by the wall indicating as such, a familiar green hue replacing what should've been a clear red.
"Uh... Uh..." I nervously mutter, trying to hide behind Sofia, stumbling against the motions of faltering words.
Sofia, however, takes a step forward. "Wait, you first. I'm going to check it out, make sure it's safe. You go ahead and ring it, then. I'll meet you inside, okay?"
"W- What are you talking about?" I question nervously. "Maybe they forget to lock their door, or something-"
"Hmph." Sofia grins, before opening the front door and stepping into the house.
"SOFIA!" I rush in with her, only to be meet with a room that's completely devoid of any sign of life. The rest of it seems decent, though, with the exception of the lack proper arrangement of furniture, except for a single bed, sitting on top of which lays a blanket. The place is more of a maze rather than a mess. There's also a simple dresser, with some clothes neatly folded on it, a wardrobe, a table, chair, desk, computer, bookshelf and lamp.
"Hello? Hello, anyone home?" Sofia calls out, hoping someone answers back soon as she ventures deeper into the isolated room.
I groan out casually: "How clumsy goes one get? Not locking your door as if nothing's wrong with that particular notion. It's ridiculous. It's insipid. Crude. It's-"
A shriek disrupts my train of though near instantaneously.
It came from Sofia, right by the uncovered bathroom door as she whimpers uncontrollably, arms shaking, legs trembling; tears watering down her eyes like waterfalls.
"Ugh! UGH! AAAAAAAHHHHHH! AAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!"
The sound of her voice echoes throughout the entirety of the room.
My heart skips.
Rushing forth to her aid, I ask of her haphazardly before stumbling about: "What's-"
I see it.
I see it now.
My eyes bulge involuntarily, goosebumps sending shivers down my spine, my stomach turning upside down.
I...
I can't even speak.
My voice quivers as I feast my eyes upon this untimely mess, a puddle of sweat forming on my forehead.
There, lying in a pool of blood, is a young woman, her hair matted with clumps of dark crimson in a once functionally hygienic bathtub.
Her body, as well as her face, is horribly disfigured, her skin torn apart, flesh ripped off, muscles twisted, bones broken, veins exposed, organs missing, all of it a sight so gruesome, I can barely comprehend how I can still breathe.
The body is unrecognizable.
Sofia looks up at me, her vision clouded with mascara all over.
She just keeps crying, unable to stop, clutching onto the side of the tub, rocking back and forth.
I hear the scream repeat themselves in echoes, but my mind refuses to comprehend its meaning.
"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!"
I keep both eyes open.
I mean, fuck-
How could you not?
How would you not?
That was a human being, I tell myself, trying to convince myself. But I don't believe it anymore.
I see the corpse, I feel the pain, I see the fear, I know what it feels to be alive, and I know what it feels to die.
And I'm pretty sure I've seen enough.
"Sofia-"
Dropping my crudely made mask, I reach out, and grab hold of the girl's shoulder. She doesn't seem to notice, as she continues to cry hysterically. Immediately, I start looking out and over the two of us, praying and hoping that the assailant isn't among us. But, there's no way he wouldn't have heard that.
THUD.
"WHO'S THERE?!"
No answer.
"Hey, anyone out there? Hey, is anybody out there?"
Silence.
"Where'd they go?"
More silence.
"Shit, shit, shit."
I look around, frantically.
"Goddamn it. Goddammit- FUCK! What the hell?!"
"Oh, God, oh, god, please, somebody help me..." Sofia hums through her tears, her voice breaking.
The faucet was left running for so long, liquid filled up the entire sink, the excess meshing with the bloody entrails like crude oil and honey. We're met with a scene of horror.
A room full of blood.
A room of death.
A room of murder.
Just then, four Vault security guards burst through the front door, like jets of water gushing out of a structurally vulnerable dam. All of them consist of a riot helmets with a hinged, acrylic visor and a padded, puncture-resistant vest. All dressed in clean, clear-cut black, their weapons are holstered, holster enamored guns and police batons- ready for use.
One of the men, who appears to be the leader, approaches Sofia first.
"You alright missy?"
"Yes, I-"
"Is this your sister?"
The man asks, his voice echoing throughout the room.
"No- she's a friend-" I answer while my lips quiver.
He nods.
"Alright, we'll take care of this. You get some rest. We'll call you if anything happens."
I nod, but my eyes are glued on the body. The lead guard, who has taken a position beside Sofia, grabs her by the wrist, pulling her away from the tub.
"Let's go, kid. It's gonna be okay. I promise. Now, let's move. We don't want this guy coming back, do we?" Another guard relents.
"CALEB!" A familiar female voice beside him rightfully shuts him up.
It's Lilith Vatore, one of the soldiers stationed as part of Vault 74's security force.
She's a beautiful woman, standing at about five feet, seven inches tall. Her black hair is tied in a ponytail, and she's wearing a vault jumpsuit underneath her black outfit. Just like the rest of them.
"What's going on here?" The last guard demands.
I turn, and see her looking down at me.
"Uh... uh, well," Caleb stutters.
"I... That woman..." I point out to the group. "SHE'S DEAD- SHE'S FUCKING DEAD, MAN!"
Lilith, who's been quiet until now, speaks up.
"So are the others. There's a killer loose in town."
They all look around.
"Where is he? How did it happen?" The tall, muscular figure that is leader starts interrogating us.
"I don't know. She was in the bathroom, and when I came in, there were bodies everywhere. I found her in the bathtub. She's dead. They're all fucking dead. What is wrong with these people?! This is crazy. Who is this fucker?!"
"Calm down. Let's think about this. Why would a monster come after us?" The scrawnier male beside Caleb raises a question.
"Because they can. Because they need to. This is what monsters do. Monsters kill to eat. And that's what this is. Not a monster, but an animal." The leader remarks rather adamantly.
"An animal..."
Lilith's voice trails off. She looks at the body in the water.
"Oh shit. Oh God. No, no, NO! Not again!" She screams.
"Lilith, calm down. Don't touch the body. There's a lot of blood. If you try to pick her up, you'll get covered in it. Stay put. Keep your distance." Caleb tries to console her.
But Lilith doesn't listen to a word.
"This is happening AGAIN!" She screeches.
A few of the guards approach Lilith. The leader quickly meets her at eye level and clenches her shoulders: "Lilith, stay where you are. You're not safe. It's too dangerous for you to be near the body. We have to call the medical team to treat the victim. Do you understand? It's imperative. Calm down. Take a deep breath. Focus. Think. Okay, Lilith, we're getting help. It's just a matter of time. When the medics arrive, we'll take care of everything. I promise. But right now, the best thing you can do is keep yourself safe. Can you do that?"
Lilith nods.
"Good girl. Now, Caleb, you and J, go and get these two into the infirmary. Make sure the medics see them. Tell them it's urgent. Then, go to the mess hall and tell the Captain what happened here. The medics will want to examine the victims. Once everyone's ready, let the medics know and then go and check on the rest of our folks. Understand?"
"Yes, sir." Caleb replies. He takes a step towards Lilith, and puts his hand on her shoulder.
J, the other guy, turns to both Sofia and I, and says,
"You heard him. Get going. Come with me, you two. Follow me, and don't look back. Just walk straight ahead. Got it?"
Sofia and I nod. He walks away, and we follow.
Caleb gets behind us both, busy escorting while trying to still check on Lilith.
We reach the infirmary, and they let us inside as Sofia and I take our respective seats.
I notice Caleb inch himself closer to the medical cabinet for a moment, but J obstructs my view, ordering softly:
"Stay HERE."
He leaves with Caleb, and we wait. After a bit, a man in a white coat comes in. He's got a clipboard and a stethoscope. In more specific terms, it's Doctor Bob Caulfield- a physician in our Vault. He looks around, and notices Sofia. He approaches her, and asks,
"Are you alright?"
Sofia answers,
"Yeah, fine. Thanks, Doc. Are there any others in need of treatment?"
Doctor Caulfield shakes his head. His face goes pale. He gives a quick glance to Sofia and asks,
"What's wrong with this one?"
He stares blanks at me as I point at myself: "Me? You mean, me?"
He doesn't answer. He's staring at my forehead. His eyes widen. He reaches for his pocket, and pulls out a pen. He scribbles on his clipboard. He glances again at Sofia, and he's about to say, but instead he writes on his clipboard, before putting the pen back in his pocket. He turns around without saying a word. He disappears from the room, and closes the door after him.
I turn away from the door, then ask aloud in an extreme burst of frustration: "WHAT THE HELL'S GOING ON AROUND HERE!?"
It was a rhetorical question, of course. Nobody answered. I sigh, slumping back against my chair beside a haggard Sofia. Then, suddenly, I hear something. It's coming from outside. Something is rustling. And it sounds like... it's footsteps. Very fast ones. They're very light. Like someone's running. Or jumping.
I turn back to the door.
There's no way out. There's no escape. No window, no air vent, nothing. The only thing is the main door from whence the doctor came, no more, no less. I can't get out- I'm trapped.
I can't move. I can't run.
I can't hide. I can't do anything. I can barely breathe. I can hardly think.
The sound of the feet grows louder. I can feel their vibrations through the floor. They're getting closer. Getting nearer. Closer than I've ever been to another human being, almost. My heart is beating so hard that it feels like I might pass out.
The footsteps stop just beyond the doorway, right at the entrance of the infirmary. I dart back towards Sofia, terrified. She's looking at the door too. We both have our backs to it. Our heads are turned towards the door.
A voice calls out from the other end,
"Hello, Doctor Caulfield. Hello, Mr. J. How's the patient doing?"
"Hi, Geoffrey. Good. Thank you." The physician replies, his tone calm and composed.
"Oh yeah? So, how're they feeling now?" the voice asks.
"They're good, Captain. If by good you mean sick, weak, and unable to walk. But if we were talking about healthy people, they'd be great. Why, are you interested in seeing them?"
"Sure am. In fact, why don't you show me, Doc. Let's go see these patients of yours. After all, it's your fault they're here, isn't it?"
"Why yes. Yes it is," Caulfield says. His face has a hint of a smile.
We turn our attention back to the door, and wait for what happens next.
It takes a while, but the door finally opens, only to reveal the Captain Geoffrey Landgraab's tall, yet lanky stature in a costume resembling a military uniform. His hair is cut short, and he wears a mustache and a pair of sunglasses. He carries a gun, a pistol, on his hip. He's holding a clipboard, which is filled with medical reports. He's got a small, silver badge pinned on his chest. His eyes seem a little red, and there's a smirk on his lips. He looks at us. Then, he walks up to Sofia and gives her a big hug. She doesn't react much, except for stiffening slightly.
I get ruffled up by that response: "Um.. Captain?"
"Please. Call me Geoffrey. Everyone else does. It's a pleasure meeting you both- if there were better circumstances aside from this. You should be able to go home soon. Maybe even today. What do you say, Sofia?"
Sofia still hasn't said a word. She's staring at the ground, and her eyes are wide open. Her breathing is heavy, and I can tell that she's trembling a little.
Geoffrey laughs as if amused.
"You look like you've seen a ghost, kid." He stretches his back in front of us rather casually. "Don't worry, I'm not gonna hurt you. I just wanted to give you something to remember me by. That's all. See, the captain has a sense of humor, unlike some of the other officers. And, it's nice to know someone who's actually funny around here. Most of the time, the jokes are really bad. Like, the kind where you laugh out loud and then have to pretend like nothing happened. Oh, and one more thing. My name is Landgraab. Not 'Captain' or anything. Just Landgraab. Got it?"
Sofia is speechless. She's standing frozen, with tears in her eyes.
Geoffrey is chuckling again.
"You think this is FUNNY? What is this, some sort of fucking 'good cop' routine?!" I don't let up. "You're laughing. You're laughing- A woman just got killed in cold blood tonight and YOU'RE LAUGHING."
"No, no, no! Stop!" Geoffrey says, trying to calm down. He puts a hand over his mouth. "Look, I didn't mean any harm. Sorry. Please, stop crying. Look, I'll go. I promise. Don't cry. This is all a big misunderstanding. I was just-"
He goes still, silent as a lamb in between the two of us.
"Guys," Geoffrey tries to interject. "Stop. Let's talk about this, alright?"
Sofia's shaking her head. She's looking at me. Her face is pale, and her lips are quivering. She's shivering. Her hands are clenched into fists.
"Look- 'Cap'n. No offense, but we're pretty 'dazzled' from what happened tonight, especially since we were all promised that we'd be SAFE DOWN HERE!" I raise my voice rather harshly.
Sofia blinks a few times, and looks at me. Her eyes are red and puffy.
"I-I'm sorry... He shouldn't have laughed..."
"Oh, shut your piehole, kid. You were joking. We both were. It's fine. Relax. Now, listen. The only reason why I came out here is because of this stupid rumor going around. If I knew that you were in danger, believe me, I would've been there right away. But I can see how things are now. You guys are scared. So, I'm gonna take a chance on you. Alright? I'm not gonna hurt you. I swear."
Sofia's eyes are wet and shiny. She's sniffing.
Geoffrey's shoulders drop a bit. He smiles. He reaches his right hand out towards Sofia, who's staring at him with wide eyes.
"Here." He extends his hand and offers her a tissue. "It's okay. You two are free to go."
I exchange a firm glance with the Captain.
"What?"
The captain sighs and shakes his head.
"We gotta do it. We gotta make sure you kids aren't in trouble."
"Why?" Sofia asks.
"Because, you know, it's our job." He then turns to Sofia. "You ready, kid? We're leaving."
"Okay." She nods. "Thank you for everything, Mr.-Landgraab- erm.."
"Call me Geoffrey."
"Geoffrey. Thank you, Geoffrey. For saving us."
"That's what friends are for, kid. C'mon, let's get outta here. And, uh, keep this under wraps, alright? We don't wanna give these assholes any more ammo than they already got. Okay?"
A moment of silence.
"See ya later, folks. Bye bye."
Sofia and I walk out of the room.
But when we do, three figures spring at us from out of nowhere.
"SOFIA!"
A woman cries out, hugging her in turn.
"Sofia, thank goodness. Where did you go?!" A man in an old fashioned haircut, a security uniform and blonde goatee admonishes.
Sofia is crying. She's shaking. Her face has gone red and blotchy. Luna hugs her parents, with her little sister joining in. I stand there, by my lonesome, rather awkwardly while I choose to not make a scene of out this than it already is. With other people walking past, staring at us in a pitiful fashion, I can't help but feel like a fool.
Her mom goes: "Sofia, please. Tell them that you didn't mean to cause a commotion. That you were just scared. They'll understand. Please, tell them, so they will believe you."
Sofia is sobbing. She's trying to speak, but she's having a hard time doing so.
"Tell your sister. She's been through enough. She needs to hear it. Now, come on, dear. Let's go home. Come on. It's okay." Sofia's dad consoles her with a solemn look on his face, facing me. He tries to lead his wife and daughters away.
She looks back at me with a pained expression. They all look where she's looking, with the father speaking out to me in sudden gratitude: "Eric Rogers, is it? Thank you. You've saved our daughter's life. Thank you. I promise, if ever we have a chance, we owe you a debt. My name's Bjorn Bjergsen. This is my family. If you could, perhaps, call me. Just, in case, you know. To say thanks. Again. Or anything else. You know. Anytime. Anything. Just. Call. Me. Thanks. And goodnight, sir. Good night."
I am just...bewildered beyond belief.
"...But I didn't do anything to-"
"It's alright, Eric. Don't worry about it," He insists. "No, really, it was nothing. Really. I'm sorry. I just thought you should know. There's a lot of crazy stuff going down around here. So, maybe, next time, you'd better keep a closer eye out, huh?"
He walks off.
"What a weirdo. What a weirdo." Sofia's mother whispers to her husband, as they walk away.
...
What a wild ride.
