100 Theme Challenge

I like this I really really really like this!!!!! (*ﾟ▽ﾟ*)

Never Again-


Things did start to feel different having her around to talk to. I hadn’t yet even learned her name, but already, I felt myself feel...happy. Yeah, that’s right. For the first time in a long time, I felt genuinely happy for myself. I never thought I’d ever experience something like this.

After we parted ways to go home, I went down into the shower to clean myself up. I took notice of a paper with my previous plans on it laying there. The sight of it made my heart clench. I shook my head and snarled.

No...not anymore.


Online-


I finally learned the name of the girl I met. Scarlett. What a pretty name. It went with her red hair, which almost seemed to glow whenever I see her.

Unfortunately, Scarlett lived far away. So we remained in contact through emails. I had been lucky enough to be able to afford one before. Not the most up to date thing in the world, but at least it could get on the web.

Scarlett and I would chat for hours when we were able to. I was often amazed at how long they’d last. It was nice and, admittingly, therapeutic.


Failure-


It would seem that I had failed to completely throw my past away...

I woke up, sweating in my bed, drenched. I panted as I recalled the nightmare. I was surrounded by dark shadows, glowing red eyes, and I lashed out. In the end, I had become another monster, and in turn, I was hunted down out of fear.

Was this what the future held for me? I prayed it wasn’t so. But then I remembered what the doctors told me, about that brain loss. I clenched my teeth tightly and wondered if I could really lose control of myself.


Rebirth-


It was difficult, but I had spoken to Scarlett about what was going on. I told her about my accident, and what the doctors had said. She agreed that it could be a problem, but that as long as I remembered right and wrong, I could fight against it.

I don’t know how true that is. I was well aware, after doing some research, who getting brain damage was a sort of dark rebirth of one’s own soul, how people can change for the worst.

Scarlett did her best to encourage me. Through her words, I felt a little better.


Breaking Away-


For a week, things had been going well between me and Scarlett. We’d chat every day, either on the computer or whenever she had time to come visit me. For a time, I had forgotten about my troubles and we began to grow closer as friends.

However, it didn’t last forever. My own internal biting desires, wanting of revenge, it had never gone away. I did try to fight against myself, but I had trouble. I nearly lashed out at Scarlett once. I never felt more ashamed. What was wrong with me?

I needed a little time to be alone.


Forever And A Day-


I don’t recall the last time I had spoken to Scarlett. I hadn’t bothered getting online. I’m sure she has been trying to contact me, but...I just didn’t care at the moment. I needed to be alone.

Days past and turned into weeks, and still I didn’t leave. I had kept trying to make sense of my predicament. Could I really control myself as much as I think I can, or was I just fooling myself? What if I snap one day and do something I regret?

This is what I kept thinking of, day in and day out.


Lost And Found-


I must have been in my house, cooped up inside, for at least a month. I hardly ate or drank, and my sleeping habits became irregular. I’d often find myself staring at walls, my fear of my brain injury finally hitting full swing. It hadn’t mattered before because I was alone, but with Scarlett, I...

My thoughts were interrupted when I heard a knock on the door. Confused, I checked it out and there was Scarlett, much to my surprise. She told me how worried she was and how she had wanted to make sure that I’m fine.

I smiled.


Light-


At first, I was ecstatic. Having not seen her in so long, I couldn’t help but give her a hug. Scarlett’s presence did help me feel better. I was happy that she had been so thoughtful that she’d come down and visit me.

We had a brief chat to catch up on what was going on. I told her about my fear of the brain damage, the fear of losing control of myself. She was concerned, too. She suggested that I speak this creation-mate of mine that she found, who was apparently really smart.

That’s when the anger came back.


Dark-


I don’t fully remember what happened, to be honest. It was all a blur.

I remember flipping a chair. Striking something. Blood. A scream. Then nothing.

By the time I came to, I noticed that Scarlett had backed up away from me. She was shocked and horrified. I felt my blood run cold. Had I struck her? I looked down at my hands and saw blood. I gasped.

But it wasn’t Scarlett’s blood. It was my own. I had slashed myself in frustration.

My body shook as I stared at Scarlett helplessly. I shut my eyes, dropping onto my knees.


Faith-


To my surprise, I felt warm arms wrap around me. I opened my eyes to see that Scarlett was still there. I widened my eyes. What was she still doing here? I thought she would leave. Wasn’t I just a hideous monster?

Scarlett made it very clear to me that she cared about me and wanted to help me. She secured me in her hug and told me that she promised sh would figure out something to help me. I was speechless. No one had ever been this dedicated to me before. Unable to contain myself, I hugged her back.

I ended up writing another batch!




Fork In The Road-


Trying to get to her was harder than I thought. I hadn’t realized just how far away she lived. Even with the rental I got, it still took a while. As I drove down to see her, I started admire the trouble she goes through to visit me.

I soon hit a snag. I didn’t know which way to go. There were three directions and the names were al lsimilar. I cursed whoever designed this place.

Thankfully, a pudgy guy showed up and helped me out. His face was weird, but I took his adice. I took the middle road.


Start-


I soon reached Scarlett’s place. It was pretty small and quaint. Not what I imagined. But oh well. I knocked on the door. She opened up and glared at me. She demanded to know what I was doing there.

I apologized to her about my lying before. I told her I just didn’t want her to worry. She told me angrily that I should still have been honest with her. I agree and I apologize again. She says that she’ll forgive me if I start going to psychiatrist meetings.

I reluctantly agreed. She smiled at me, promising to join me.


Nature’s Fury-


The meeting with the psychiatrist had to be delayed. There was a freak storm going on and I did not want to get caught up in it. So I stayed cooped up in my house, hoping that the sand storm would pass soon.

As I waited, I briefly wondered about Scarlett. I tried to call her, but to my horror, she didn’t answer. Thinking that something might be wrong, I made a resolve to find her after the storm stopped.

When it did, I raced towards her place as fast as I could. I called out her name, looking around.


At Peace-


Scarlett’s place was devasted by a storm. Whether or not it was the same sand storm that struck my place didn’t matter. I searched around the premises, trying to find her. I could feel my heart pounding in my chest.

No please...let her be okay..

I soon gave a sigh of relief when I found Scarlett on the ground in the back. I came up to her, but I could see that she was devastated. I did my best to comfort her, since she was there for me. She leaned against me and I could feel her calming down.


Heart Song-


I invited her to stay at my place. It wasn’t much, but there was enough room for the two of us. She accepted and she moved in with me, at least until she could find her own place.

After a couple of days living with me, I could tell that she was still depressed. I couldn’t blame her. Losing your home is nothing to sneeze at. So I decided to cheer her up.

I put on a show for her. I hadn’t tried singing before, but somehow the words flowed through me. Scarlett smiled and told me she loved it.


Reflection-


We finally started going to the psychiatrist meetings. It was a difficult thing for me to do. Scarlett helped me feel better, though.

In the meeting, the psychiatrist asked me why I had snapped those times. I told him I didn’t know, and he thinks that it’s because of some bottled up feelings I had inside of me. He told me I needed to take a moment and reflect upon myself. He promised to help me however he can.

I realized he was right. My flaw was holding things inside of me. They were building up. I needed an outlet.


Perfection-


Finding an outlet was hard. I wasn’t sure what I was good at. Scarlett and I tried many things, but none of them worked. I could still feel myself gravitating towards my hatred of my fellow creation-mates.

Scarlett suggested singing. She told me I had a beautiful voice. I was skeptical. I told her I had just made up the song on the fly and I didn’t know I could do it again.

Still, she convinced me to try again. So I took out the mic and started to sing another song, this one about myself.

...yes. This was perfect.


Everyday Magic-


The singing was working. It helped me to keep my mind off my creation-mates, and I started to channel my feelings through the songs. Each day, I would think of something new and exciting to sing. Sometimes, Scarlett would even join along with me and we’d do a duet.

Those days were some of the best times of my life. I felt truly happy with myself. Scarlett suggested I could sell my songs. This, I declined. But despite that, I still continued to make songs for her, as well as myself. There wasn’t a day after that without a song.


Umbrella-


I decided to go to the library while Scarlett rested. She was feeling under the weather lately, so I decided to get her some medications.

I winced as it started to rain. Figures this would happen day of all days. I didn’t even have an umbrella to speak of. I stood there, getting soaked in the rain.

Someone came over to me. I recognized him from before. The pudgy guy simply smiled at me and handed me his umbrella. I thanked him cautiously, but he was quickly off. I frowned as I watched him leave. He was so very strange.


Party-


It has been two weeks now and still no word on that house. Each day, it seemed Scarlett was getting more and more depressed.

So I decided to organize a party for her. I knew no one would come to see me, but Scarlett seemed like she had some friends. I wanted to keep it a surprise, and, doing my own research, I was able to find a couple of people to come over.

Scarlett was surprised by the party. But her shock melted away and we all started to have a great time.

That is, until it had happened.

Accuracy-


I don’t know how long I was unconscious for. I remember waking up and noticing that the clock had moved forward some. How much? I don’t know, but somehow I knew I had been out for a while.

I rushed to the hospital with the vial. I moved through the streets, making every step, every second, count. And my efforts soon paid off. I had arrived in the hospital.

The doctors were suspicious, but I convinced them to use my concoction. We all watched and waited, and Scarlett soon woke up. I couldn’t help but smile. Talk about close call.


Versus-


It took about two days before Scarlett was strong enough to speak. I took the opportunity as soon as I could.

But she...didn’t seem all that happy with me. I didn’t know why. I was confused. So I asked her.

She wasn’t happy about being given a medication that could have made things worse. She asked if I had tested it out, and when I admitted I didn’t, she got angrier at me. She told me to never use her as a guinea pig again.

I felt hurt and angry. Feeling unwanted, I stormed out of the hospital quickly.


Heartfelt Apology-


I had intended to lock myself away in home. I had wanted to just go underneath the covers and leave Scarlett alone if that’s what she wanted. But...I just couldn’t do that. So I went back a short time later after I had cooled down.

When I arrived, I apologized to her. I told her that I had just been so worried about her, I wanted to do something to help.

She accepted, and also apologized. She realized that I was only trying to help and she felt bad about yelling at me.

We smiled and hugged each other.


Luck-


Wow, talk about avoiding a crisis there.

The doctor told us something that reaffirmed what I had thought about being in the nick of time before. What he told us was chilling, but also relieving.

Apparently, Scarlett was very close to slipping into a permanent coma. What I had given her was enough to stave that off somehow. But he also informed us that a slightly different angle or different force would have killed her.

I felt my heart skip a beat and I clutched her hand. I couldn’t bear the thought of losing her.

I won’t let that happen.


Impressions-


After she recovered, Scarlett told me that it was time that I had met Zerax, who was the zoner who had insulted me at the party. She said something about wanting us to patch things up and start over. I didn’t like the idea, but I still agreed.

We met at her place. Zerax regarded me in contempt but also curiosity. We started to talk to each other. Awkard, slow, but we made some progress.

I could tell it was hard for him to be nice to me. But it was still nice he was trying. Perhaps he wasn’t bad.


Teenager-


I take back what I said about Zerax being okay. He is such a jerk. He might be nice to me up in my face, but behind my back, I still hear the insults. Each one worst than the last. I tried to control myself.

Scarlett got tired of me complaining about him. She told me that I was acting like some stupid teenager with holding onto a grudge. I frowned at her, feeling hurt that she didn’t seem to understand my pain. I wished she could be in my shoes for once.

But maybe she was right about me.


Friendship-


I tried to focus my attention on those who cared about me. Or rather, the one person who was nice to me. Scarlett.

Well there was that strange man, but...I digress.

We decided to go out for dinner after having some fun in this new, futuristic place. The restaurant was rather nice, one that Scarlett loved to visit. We ate and we had some interesting conversations.

She understood my fears and reaffirmed our friendship. She even gave me a quick, friendly peck on the cheek. I couldn’t help but smile. I was lucky to have her. She’s so kind.


Cold Embrace-


I woke up screaming again. I hugged myself tightly. I could feel the coldness all around me, trapping me inside a coil despite me being wrapped in a blanket. It was just so cold...so cold...

When will these nightmares stop? Why won’t they leave me alone?

They keep taunting me, showing me as something that I was not. They are getting harder to fight against.

I look outside as I heard a bolt of lightning. Suits my mood well.

I should get back to sleep. I can talk to Scarlett about it tomorrow. Maybe she can figure out something.


Frost-


Oh darnit. Of course it was going to snow today. The roads are covered in a small, yet slippery, layer of frost. It’s hard for anyone to move around. I could see people struggling to stand up.

I did my best to keep from slipping myself. I failed several times, landing with my face in the cold, snowy ground. But I still get up onto my feet. I needed to see Scarlett.

When I arrived, I found that she had been trapped inside by the snow. Her doors and windows were frozen shut.

Using my strength, the door was opened.


A Moment In Time-


With the power out, there wasn’t much we could do. Scarlett was freezing, but I didn’t want to take her all the way to my place just to warm up. So I offered to stay there with her.

We sat together on the couch. A blanket was wrapped around us. We talked about different things, but never my own feelings. I didn’t feel about talking about them right now.

I soon felt pressure against myself. I looked down and saw that Scarlett had fallen asleep next to me. Smiling gently, I put my arm around her and pull her close.

I finished the theme challenge! Here are the final 20 parts-




Summer Haze-


Wanting to get away from the house and get my mind off that wretched nightmare, I headed out to the park. At this time of night, no one was there, and it would give me plenty of time to think.

I sat down on the bench and leaned against it. I looked all around me. This place looked quite beautiful. I loved the way the trees swayed in slight wind. I loved the way the warmth from the sky beat down on me, almost comforting.

I shut my eyes part way and, for a moment, forgot about what had happened.


Memories-


The more I watched the serene nature scene, the more that I enjoyed it, the more I began to think of...her...

I felt my heart clench and I clutched my chest. Any feelings of warmth and comfort disappeared. Everything around me appeared to get a little cooler and darker. I shut my eyes, fighting back the tears.

There was no way I could erase the memories of Scarlett. I hadn’t seen her in so long. I had to wonder how she was doing. Was she thinking of me? Or was it truly over between us?

I had to know.


Game-


The first thing I thought of was a sport. I recalled how much she liked certain games. Bowling seemed like a good option. I remember we played it before.

I arranged with the bowling alley for a few games with two people. I realized too late that I should have asked Scarlett first. But I had been naive.

Scarlett refused to answer my phone calls and, unsurprisingly, never showed up. The bowling alley had prepared for us and it all for naught. I still went and bowled on my own, but I had to pay an extra fine.

Stupid me.


Illogical-


It was my fault. I should have realized that it wouldn’t have worked. Scarlett knows I killed her grandfather. What kind of loon would want to hang out with a murderer? I couldn’t blame her for not bothering to see me. I’d be like that, too, if I were in her shoes.

If I was going to show her how sorry I was, I’d need to do something else. A game wasn’t going to do. That wasn’t going to erase all the pain I gave her.

Hmm...perhaps a tribute? Maybe I could make something for her grandfather. Something special.


Only Human-


Day in and day out, I worked on the tribute. I wasn’t sure if it was what Scarlett would have wanted for her grandfather, but it’s the thought that counts, right?

I heard the doorbell. I put my things down and answered it.

It was Scarlett.

I was shocked, speechless. I could barely ask her if she wanted to come inside.

Scarlett made it clear she was still angry, but she understood how messed up people can get with brain damage. She said she was still willing to help me. Brain damage isn’t easily overcome, and I was only human.


A Place To Belong-


She was wrong. I was not human.

I was...something else.

But her words did make me feel as though I did belong...somehow. I wasn’t the only one suffering from brain damage, and according to her, one could not just jump back from it.

Scarlett admitted that, after some thinking, she realized that me throwing her grandfather off a cliff was a definite sign I needed a lot of help. She was willing to do that, if only to keep me from doing it again.

I doubt things will be the same between us. But I still appreciated it.


Advantage-


Having Scarlett around again, even if it wasn’t as warm as before, did help me regain some sense of my mind. I am not sure what it is about her, but it just...helped.

She was happy to see I made her grandfather a tribute, showing how sorry I was. She accepted my apology, but she wasn’t yet ready to forgive me completely. Understandable. It’s not easy forgiving someone who killed a family member.

I was determined not to lose her again. I hope that, in time, we can mend our relationship, and start over.

It would take some time.


Breakfast-


The first sign that Scarlett was starting forgive me was when she came over to my place to make breakfast. A big one at that, and right in bed. I was surprised by this gesture. But it still warmed my heart.

Although her cooking was something to be desired. The food...well it wasn’t bad, but it did taste a little weird. I wonder what kind of meat she used for the bacon.

Well it is the thought that counts, and I appreciated it. I want to do something nice for her in return. Hmm... but what should I do?


Echoes-


A cave. Yeah... that would be fun.

Scarlett liked the idea of exploration. I felt this was a good way for us to rebuild some trust. Relying on each other to navigate a vast network of underground tunnels.

But it was difficult to find one in this world. I must have searched everywhere, and found nothing.

That is, until I found the mine. Just what we needed.

We began to explore. It was quite pretty, and sparkly in some rooms. We listened to our echoes. But our visit was short-lived when the person in charge of the cave arrived, furious.


Falling-


It wasn’t easy getting away from him. Even as we ran, I could hear his footsteps behind us.

It didn’t take long for us to fall down through a hole in the ground. We screamed as we plummeted. I remember pain, darkness, and then nothing.

When I came to, we were at the bottom of a drop. My body hurt and I struggled up to my feet. I looked around and found Scarlett laying on the ground. I helped her up to her feet.

There was a pathway to our left. We took it until we finally reached the outside.


Picking Up The Pieces-


It took us a while to recover from that. We were both quite shaky.

Luckily, we didn’t get that badly hurt. The doctors said we were both narrowly escaped worse injuries. He also told us that mine was off limits, and implied it was our fault for going in. We were angered, but did not argue and left.

After that, we did continue working on improving our relationship. It was slow and steady, but I feel we made some nice progress. She still retained some anger, but I expected that.

It took a while, but slowly, things were getting better.


Gunshot-


After another visit to the therapist, I suggested we go out to eat, like old times.

We headed down the street. The diner was close.

I tried to think of what to talk about. I still felt guilty about what happened. I wanted to do something to make it up to her. I still considered her a friend.

A bang rang through the air.

I stiffened up. It had sounded so close. I tried to look around, but a horrific pain suddenly ripped through my head. The next thing I was aware of was my head colliding with the ground.


Possession-


I woke up in the hospital, a horrible pounding headache ripping through my head. I could feel a heavy bandage on it, and turning around was too difficult.

The doctor told me that I gained a new head injury. My old one had worsened. He feared I would start to have less control over my less desirable attributes. I was horrified.

But that wasn’t the only problem.

The doctor also said that there was a gun found at the scene. It was used on me and Scarlett.

And my finger prints were on it.

I couldn’t believe it.

Oh no...


Twilight-


My trial was going to be soon. For the time being, I had to remain here, just in case I tried to leave.

The doctor had been right. My anger was getting more out of control. They stopped interrogating me because I would nearly wring their necks. I would only regain control after I was struck or the door slammed.

What the hell was wrong with me?

How could I have done such a thing to Scarlett? To myself? I hope she is okay.

There were so many questions plaguing my mind. I hope to get answers soon. Somehow. Someway.


Nowhere And Nothing-


Scarlett visited me, much to my shock. She didn’t appear angry at all and was understanding of the situation. She told me she believed that there was more brain damage before than we thought and she promised she’d find a way out for me.

That had been a few days ago. I hadn’t seen her since.

She probably failed. Let’s face it. I’m not getting out of here. No one, besides Scarlett, would help me. I’m a lost cause. I’m nothing.

So why don’t they just lock me in a jail cell to rot and throw away the blasted key?


Answers-


That strange man before, the one who had been aggressive, came to visit me. I told him to get lost, but he insisted he stayed. He had some camera footage of what had happened that day and he felt I needed to watch.

I eventually agreed. He put it into a portable video player he had brought with. My eyes widened in horror.

It had been Scarlett. She had the gun. She aimed it. She fired.

The strange man was in the video. He had saved me. His actions diverted the bullet, and injured Scarlett in the process.

I cried.


Innocense-


The evidence the strange man gave was enough to let me go, and enough to convinct Scarlett. I didn’t bother staying to know why she did it. I already knew.

Even though I was proven innocent and allowed to leave, it felt..hollow. How could I return to my life now? Innocence...bah, it was nothing to me now. I had lost that a long time ago.

But despite my skepticism, I did try to move on from that. I was a free man and I was going to take full advantage of it.

I continued to life my life.


Reality-


It wasn’t good enough. No matter what I tried, I could not get on with my life. I’d always think of Scarlett.

I couldn’t believe that, after all we went through, she’d do this to me. I realized that the only reason she was nice to me before..

...was so she could get revenge.

She had used me. And I fell for it. So much time wasted..

Unable to take it anymore, I snuck into the jail. I found her cell and went around behind her and grabbed her scrawny neck in my hands. With a twist, her neck snapped.


Acceptance-


I had finally accepted who I was.

I wasn’t someone who would fit in. I was not someone who would ever be liked or accepted. I was someone who must claw my way through, and that’s what I’m going to do.

The strange man and his minions saved my life. I offered to help them. They would work for me. They were nothing more than minions. Not friends.

I have no use for friends. I would never allow myself to be open again.

I gave into my darker desires, and became the monster of my nightmares.

And I loved it.


Endings-


Soon, it was all going to be over.

Working with my new... ‘friends’, we built a trap for my creator and creation-mates. No one was dragging me down anymore. No one was going to stop me. I had gotten rid of all competition, including Scarlett’s stupid friend and my therapist.

It worked. I was luring them all in. I waited for my moment to strike. And when it came, I decided it was high time I introduced myself to the creator who had betrayed me.

“At last, Rudy Tabootie... We meet face to face..”

My insane cackle filled the air.

Bones-


I couldn't believe I saved that stupid dragon. I should have listened to my sanity and left him to die.

Ever since I helped Zuu, I hadn't felt like myself. I kept thinking of Zuu, and feel sick at what I had done. This isn't myself. I hadn't done something like that since...

I froze as I thought of Scarlett again. I had saved her life. Now I did the same thing again with someone else.

I clenched my fingers tightly, nearly feeling my own bones break. I needed to do something about this and fast. I didn't want this.


Insanity-


I would get that dragon. I would find him. I would skin him alive. How dare he try to appeal to my soft spot. I didn't have a soft spot anymore. I would make that dragon see. I would make him regret his bout of insanity when he dare call to me for help.

The Beanie Boys are nervous. They say I am getting insane. No, they are wrong. I am fine. There's nothing wrong with me. It's that dragon. This is all his fault. I needed to find him and take care of him. Then everything will be fine.


Misfortune-


I soon found Zuu. I proceeded to give him a piece of my mind.

“How dare you!”

“How dare I what?”

“You tricked me into saving you!”

“No, I did not. You did that yourself.”

“Don't pull anything on me, you stupid lizard! If you hadn't looked at me with those eyes, I wouldn't have...”

“Why are you blaming me for your own actions?”

“It's your fault that I haven't been feeling like myself lately!”

At this, he rose up, towering over me. “Don't blame me for your so-called misfortune.”

I am ashamed to say I couldn't answer him back.


Smile-


Zuu wasn't done with me yet.

“Why are you upset? Why does saving me make you feel this way?”

I growled. “That's none of your business!”

“It became my business when you tried to hurt me.”

“How did you...?”

“I'm not stupid, Skrawl. I know all about you.”

I glared at him. “Doesn't matter! I won't let you use your trickery on me!”

Zuu shrugged his shoulders. “I never intended on tricking you. Go on and believe that if you wish. But take my advice.”

Zuu circled around me, his whiskers lightly touching me.

“You should try to smile more.”


Crisis-


I returned home, stunned by what Zuu had told me. I tried to push it out of my head. But his words continued to haunt me.

“You should try to smile more.”

What the hell did he mean by that?

I could feel my mind spinning, an ache developing as I tried to understand the meaning of Zuu's statement.

I was fine, wasn't I? I lived on my own long enough to know I'm okay with this. What did Zuu know anyway?

This was part of his plan. He wanted me to suffer a mental crisis. No, he won't win.


Questioning-


I had to confront Zuu again. It was the only way to make this right. It was the only way to stop these maddening thoughts.

Zuu did not protest to my next visit. I demanded to know what he had planned. I delivered a series of questions. I made it clear I wanted an answer to all of them.

When I was done, Zuu just looked at me. He cocked an eyebrow.

“Shouldn't you be questioning yourself?”

“What? Why?”

“Because it is not me that's the problem. It's yourself.”

I fumed. Who did he think he was? I stormed out.


Blood-


This dragon was starting to remind me of Scarlett. I hated it. I knew he was going to misuse me, just like she did. I don't care what my Beanie Boys say. I'm not going insane. I just need to take care of some business. That's all.

I will shed that dragon's blood. His blood will coat my claws. Only when I feel it drip through my fingers will I feel normal again.

I longed to hear Zuu plead with me. That would be music to my ears.

I headed out. I didn't bother taking a weapon. It'll be quick.


Rainbow-


A rainbow. How disgusting. This was not how I wanted the sky to look when I freed myself of Zuu.

At the same time, it was rather befitting. A rainbow looked nice and sweet, but was there anything there? No. Most rainbows were transparent, just like how friendship was. This rainbow symbolised my experience with such a wretched thing quite well.

Perhaps I will drag Zuu out and beat him underneath a rainbow. I'll make him see what I do. I will make him understand.

I could see his place ahead. I smiled darkly and proceeded. I readied my claws.


Discovery-


I snuck into Zuu's home. I could hear him snoring even from down here. He was so loud. Soon, I wouldn't have to hear it anymore.

I proceeded up the stairs. I soon found his bedroom. I walked in. I could see him sleeping on a large, soft matt. I grinned nastily. Almost too easy. I approached slowly.

Before I could make my move, I noticed something about his head fur. Why not? He'll die anyway. I lightly touched the fur and parted it. I was taken aback by what I saw.

A long scar on his head.

I gasped.


Fortitude-


Zuu had woken up not long after. He had heard my gasp.

If he said anything, I wasn't listening. I tried to be strong in my fortitude. I had seen stranger things before. Yet something about this compelled me.

I had never seen another zoner with a head injury. But if he was brain damaged, why was he not like me? How can he be so damn positive?

I had enough. I did not want to hear what this dragon had to say. I had to get out of here.

I tried to leave, but Zuu blocked my path.

“Stay.”

Flowers-


The next morning, after the rain had stopped, I went outside, taking in a deep breath as I smelled the fresh air. The air always smelled so nice after it rained. It was one of the few things left in the world that made me happy.

I took notice of what appeared to be some flowers. I don't remember these flowers here. They must have been erased recently. I went over to one, and touched it in my claws. It was a beautiful red color, just like...

I immediately crushed the flower in my hands. Perhaps I needed a walk.


Night-


What a long walk. I should have driven. I didn't think about it earlier. My Beanie Boys were still back at the hideout. They didn't know I was gone.

No matter. I can handle myself on my own.

I don't know how long I walked. My feet ached after a while. I needed to rest.

I realized that I had gone into a Night Zone. The stars hung overhead and I could see the moon. I realized it was the same one I had brought the sun to earlier.

They won't be happy to see me. I needed to leave.


Expectations-


I don't know why I came out here. I should have paid attention. Now I was dangerously close the Night Zone I nearly burned. I didn't need to waste time on expectations; I already knew what would happen.

I started to back away. So far, none of them saw me. I began to move around towards one of the tall rocks. As soon as I reached it, I could break into a run.

I wasn't quiet enough. I could hear the sound of footsteps. They knew I was here. I started to run.

Then a sharp pain.

Then I collapsed.


Stars-


Stars.

That's what I was seeing when I was being dragged.

I didn't bother trying to protest. I was aware that wouldn't stop them. I wasn't sure where I was being taken. I did take notice of the tall buildings. I noticed a few still had scorch marks from the Day Zone sun I had dragged over.

I found myself being taken into a building. Dark and dingy. Then I was shoved into a room and locked up. I demanded they set me free. They laughed and left.

I growled, but there was nothing I could do. I was stuck.


Hold My Hand-


I woke up from a nap, and realized I was still trapped here.

That wasn't what was on my mind presently. I was thinking about that darn dream I had. It was about me killing Scarlett. This was unlike previous dreams I had. Scarlett spoke, and said a cryptic line.

“Hold my hand.”

What did that mean? Well it was just a stupid dream, so maybe I shouldn't pay attention to it. Besides, I had other things on my mind.

I needed to figure a way out of here. But how was I going to pull that off?

Who knows?


Precious Treasure-


Someone came in. Probably to interrogate me. I narrowed my eyes as he approached me with that smug look and his hands folded.

“You know I'm not staying here long, right?” I said.

“Oh yes, I know who you are. But you are nothing without your Beanie Boys.” He said.

I cursed to myself. Of all the times I didn't tell my Beanie Boys my location.

He smirked at my silence. “I wonder how you feel when you're in big trouble.”

I just bared my teeth. “You don't scare me.”

“Soon I will...your precious treasure can't save you this time...”


Eyes-


Precious treasure? Did he mean Scarlett? How would he know that?

Then I saw the look in his eyes. Those eyes, they reminded me of Scarlett. It was then I knew who this guy was.

He was one of Scarlett's creation-mates.

It was only at this realization that I felt a pang of real fear. Was he going to get revenge for what I had done to his creation-mate? He hadn't really brought it up, and he had sounded annoyed earlier. Maybe he didn't like Scarlett? Maybe Scarlett was a traitor even to her own kind?

He strode towards me.


Abandoned-


“Take that, you monster!”

I screamed as he struck me again and again. I couldn't even fight back. His boys were holding me. Soon I was laying on the ground, covered in bruises and blood, and my left eye wouldn't open.

He scowled, “You're a disgusting monster. You deserve to die.”

He and his gang dragged me towards a source of deep water. They sneered at me.

“Let's see how you like it.”

They tied a heavy stone to me. My eyes widened when I realized what they were going to do. They pushed the rock in and left me.


Scared-


I sank near the bottom of the water source. It was not as deep as I thought. But I could not breathe. Bubbles spat out of me as I struggled to get up. I ignored the aches and pains as I tried to climb out.

I felt a sickening sensation in my body, and I knew what was wrong.

I was scared.

My lungs started to burn as I continued to go on without air. My heart pounded, raw terror crawling over me. I thrashed around in the water.

Soon I could move no longer and I shut my eyes.


Rated-


Suddenly I was aware of breathing again. I coughed loudly and painfully, my body soaked in water. I was unable to stop shivering. Whether from fear or from the cold, I did not know.

I heard a voice asking me how I rated my pain. I told him the highest number he provided. Then I was aware of being pushed against something. I slung my arm over and managed to open up my right eye.

It was that dragon. Zuu. He had saved me.

“What happened to you?” He asked me.

I was too shaken to say anything to him.


Teamwork-


We weren't alone for long. That darn guy came back, along with his friends. Zuu had moved himself around me. That did not deter our harrassers.

“What are you doing here, dragon?”

Zuu did not respond. He raised his head up. “You are a coward.”

This angered him. “What?!”

“Only a coward would use teamwork against someone who couldn't fight back.”

“He deserved it!”

Zuu kept quiet at this. He stared at them for a few seconds before he inflated himself. He gave a burst of smoke. While they coughed, he took me into the air and flew off quickly.


Standing Still-


I couldn't move. I had been stuck in this bed for a while. No improvement. I don't even know how much time had passed. It was as though time was standing still. Hours could have passed for all I know, and I wouldn't even notice it. I emitted a groan.

I hate this. I was Skrawl. I shouldn't be laying down, sick in bed. I shouldn't need my Beanie Boys to take care of me. I shouldn't need Zuu's help for anything. I needed to get off of this bed and try to resume my life. I don't need help.


Dying-


When I tried to get out of bed, I let out a scream. I felt a flash of pain rush up my body and I collapsed. I laid on the ground and quivered. That stupid zoner had done more damage to me than I thought.

My whole body was wracked in terrible pain. It felt like I was dying. I just wanted it to be over.

One of my Beanie Boys saw me. He tried to help. I slashed at him. I did not need help.

But my resolve soon began to fade. When Zuu arrived, I offered no resistance.


Two Roads-


After a few days, I was starting to feel a little better. I still required help, as much as I hate to admit it. I had to stay in bed. Zuu said that one of my legs was badly damaged. That would explain why I fell earlier.

At least he was quiet for the most part. It wasn't until the fifth day that he spoke to me.

“Did you know every action has two roads?”

I grumbled softly, “What are you talking about?”

Zuu looked at me. “Did you ever wonder what would have happened if you didn't kill Scarletet?”


Illusion-


“What?! How did you know that?!”

“I am a spirit dragon. I can sense your emotions, and I know you liked Scarlett.”

“She meant nothing to me!”

“You're such a liar. Why not admit the truth? You liked her, and you felt hurt when you thought she betrayed you.”

“She did betray me! Our friendship was fake, an illusion!”

“What makes you think it was an illusion?”

“She shot me! I saw the video!”

“Every video, every picture, tells many stories. Perhaps you should play closer attention.”

“I don't know what you're talking about!”

“Because you cannot see beyond yourself.”


Family-


I refused to relent. I wasn't going to let this stupid dragon control me.

“She was nothing!”

Zuu did not look convinced. “If you're going to lie to me, try harder.”

I hissed and turned my head away. “I've had enough of you! Go away!”

Zuu came over towards me. I could sense his head beside my bed. I twisted myself around so I wouldn't have to look at him.

“Scarlett was like family to you.”

“No!”

“If she meant nothing to you, why are you getting defensive?”

I trembled. I felt confused and enraged. I spat, “Just go away!”


Creation-


Surprisingly, Zuu did leave me alone after that point. I heard him slink off. Good riddens. I didn't want to see him again.

My scowl faded as my emotions swept over me. I could feel a dull ache. I reached up and gently touched my head. That scar. It was a reminder that I wasn't as messed up as I was on my creation day. I wonder how different things would have been between me and Scarlett if I wasn't a...

No, I need to stop thinking about her. She meant nothing to me now.

The truth was, I couldn't.


Childhood-


Bitterness and sorrow swept through me as I reminded myself of my creation day. It happened so long ago to me, yet it felt like yesterday. My stomach churned as I remember how Rudy stood idly by, doing nothing.

But despite my words, I knew he was not the only one to blame. There were other kids, too.

Were they cruel or just stupid? It did not matter me.

Humans in that childhood state. They were all the same. I hate every last one of them.

If only I could get my hands on one...

No matter. In due time.


Stripes-


It had been a month now. Zuu still did not leave, even when I could care for myself. I learned to ignore his presence.

I looked at my side were that creation-mate of Scarlett had me lacerated. They had healed, but markes were left behind. It looked like I had stripes now.

Stripes. That's what remained of...that day.

I got up to have some breakfast. I was getting hungry. I grabbed some random biscuit, and then went ot get water to drink it down.

I don't know why it happened now. It never happened before.

I suddenly froze in terror.


Breaking the Rules-


I ignored the incident with the water. It was just a one time thing. It would not happen again. I was sure of it.

I realized I was long overdue for another attempt to take over ChalkZone. That stupid zoner had delayed me. Perhaps I should start with him. I began to prepare.

Zuu came into my planning room.

“Are you plannning on breaking the rules again?”

“Get out of my sight!” I snarled. “I don't care if you're head injured like me! Just leave!”

“How far do you think this will take you?”

“Just go!”

“I want an answer.”