Dark Deception

* Count
* Script

## Chronology

Muahaha, mortals and stuff.

Please know that this game isn't finished yet, so it can't be placed in the work leaderboard yet.

## Overview

### Soul Shards

Let's go over the main collectible of the game: Soul Shards. Let Bierce explain them:
> "See those floating bits of crystal? Those are soul shards, fragments of human spirit scattered throughout the halls of this little maze. Each crystal is remnant of one who has met their end here."
> -Helen Bierce
>
>

Wow aren't they something? You'd think it's ridiculous that there'd be so many soul shards, but Bierce was born at, like, the early days of cinema. She died a long, long time ago, and tons of people die every day, so it makes perfect sense.

Anyway, let's look at the maximum obtainable Soul Shard at each level, credit going to the Dark Deception wiki. Thank you, guys. You have a ton of patience for this game, har har.

Remember that I'm only counting the Soul Shards in-game. There's bonus shards for when S-ranking a level, but those are gameplay related, and not something that's in-universe.

The current total is 3226.

### "Collapsing Nightmare"

The location you're in apparently collapses when the Ring Piece is collected. So, uh, rip those monsters. Let's try and count them.

Monkey Business has 3 Murder Monkeys chase you, but there are more minding their own business or appear at the end. In the latter's case: one monkey bursts out of a door while you're in the elevator to exit, and 6 more come out of their own elevators. In the former's case, there are more monkeys that might appear when knocking at the door, but they're randomized, thus don't count, hence the total being 10 Murder Monkeys.

Agatha apparently appears alive and well in another cutscene. So, she's spared.

Deadly Decadence has approximately 22 Gold Watchers. Also there's another giant stone Gold Watcher that appears close to the portal at the end chase sequence.

Not sure how many Dread Duckies are in Stranger Sewers' first area, but the end chase has 13 of them in that area, so let's count them. The second area has 9. That, plus the one duck as the portal during the escape sequence plus the Doom Ducky, we have 24 enemies.

Crazy Carnevil has 20 Clown Gremlins in the first act. The ring barrier tent has one clown for the first time, and two for the second time. 25 clowns in the second act. Aaand there are the 4 Goliath Clowns you personally kill. The clowns they personally throw up don't count because they're an infinite supply. There's also a Murder Monkey in a cage.

Torment Therapy has three Reaper Nurses in the first act, 3 more in the second act, and an infinite supply in the boss battle so we can't count them. There's also the Matron. Then there're the Nurses in the lobby, but I'll count them later. This article is W.I.P. after all.

Mascot Mayhem has those infinitely produced Joy Joy Gang members, so we're discounting them. The original gang, though. They got crushed by a crusher, but their eyes were still active, meaning they were still alive. Also, they appeared during the whole "Bierce gets her ring pieces stolen" cutscene, so they didn't collapse along with their nightmare.

Honestly, with that whole cutscene, I'm wondering if Bierce was just saying nonsense. Eh, whatever.

### Bierce's Diary

TBA

The wiki housing my script for the game got removed, possibly due to the number of blatant plagiarism. This is the second time this script is here. Enjoy

## Chapter 1

**???**: It is done. Now my faith lies in darkness...
INT. UNKNOWN

**Bierce**: ...Oh! Another one. How nice to have some company again. Come over here. Let's have a look at you... You disappoint me love. You really do... So many fears... So many desires... I thought you'd be bigger. Don't look so confused... I know everything you've got hidden in that brain of yours. I know all the terrible things you've done. So many good intentions laid to waste... I can see the regret, eating away at your soul... Hah! But now your time has come and here you are, to grovel and beg. You can't go back.. Only death awaits you there now. Fear not love, you've got potential! I see it in you, and I can help change your fate. But if you want a new life, you're going to have to suffer quite a bit to get it.
INT. BIERCE'S BALLROOM

**Bierce**: The pieces to a powerful ring are hidden in nightmares behind each of these portals. Find them, and bring them to me. And you'll get your wish. Fail, and you'll find there are fates far worse than death awaiting you here.
[Monkey Business portal opens]

**Bierce**: Clock's ticking...
INT. THE HOTEL

**Bierce**: What a charming little hotel... Bring back any memories?
[*Elevator opens*]

**Bierce**: Going up?
[*Entering the level*]

**Bierce**: Now, listen closely... See those floating bits of crystal? Those are soul shards, fragments of human spirit scattered throughout the halls of this little maze. Each crystal is remnant of one who was met their end here. Gather them all, and the first ring piece will be yours. One more thing. You're not alone. There are monsters in here, and they're looking for you. Here, you'll need this. It can detect each shard's location. It was left by the last... Guest to disappoint me here. A very clever girl. Just not a very fast runner. Enough instruction. Break those boards and let's get this party started!
[*Any time Bierce warns the player*]

**Bierce**: Here it comes!
**Bierce**: It's found you!
**Bierce**: Run!
**Bierce**: It's almost got you! Run!
**Bierce**: It's closing in! Hurry!
**Bierce**: It's here.
**Bierce**: Run, run!
**Bierce**: It's right behind you!
[*Progress*]

**Bierce**: You've gathered half of the shards. I'm impressed. I would've thought you'd have been shredded by now...
**Bierce**: You've gathered all of the soul shards. The ring piece is now exposed, and the monsters will go into a frenzy. Get to the ring piece before Mr. Monkey finds you!
[*Dying to the Murder Monkeys*]

**Bierce**: Dead already? That's okay. Nobody liked you anyway.
**Bierce**: Death by monkey? Oh dear, how embarrassing!
**Bierce**: It helps if you don't let them stab you in the face.
**Bierce**: That's what you get for monkeying around with Murder Monkeys!
**Bierce**: Ugh, you're making it pretty easy to root for the monkeys.
### E's Note

(This got added in the Enhanced update)

> I don't remember how I came to this place, but I will not play her game. I'll find my own way out. I had to leave the tablet behind, but she thinks I'm gone now. Frightening creatures roam this old hotel. There's something familiar about it all. It seems that I can sense things for some reason. It's as if this world wants to share its dark story with me. I don't want to hear it, but I can't shut it out. I can only record my thoughts on paper to help me clear my mind. The monkeys.... I can sense their desires. Their souls whisper to me. The ones in the kitchen frighten me the most. The mutterings are random and no longer human, but they are the most violent of wishes. I've learned that the mortal souls of murderers are imprisoned inside each one. In life, they abandoned their humanity. They gave in to their urge to kill. They chose to become monsters. Now they continue on in this place as monstrous Murder Monkeys.
>
>

-E
[*Grabbing the Ring Piece*]

**Malak**: Hrghh... Who dares?!
**Bierce**: Shoot, he knows you're here now, you need to escape. Get to the portal, hurry!
[*Escaping*]

**Bierce**: Run, run!
**Malak**: There's no escape for you, mortal!
[*Cutscene*]

INT. BIERCE'S BALLROOM

**Bierce**: Good! You made it. And I see you met my friend, sooner than I was expecting.
[*Malak's Door Form activates*]

**Malak**: ...Bierce! Still so persistent after all this time... Do not listen to her, mortal. She's just using you. Give her the ring and there will be... Consequences. This is your only warning... Help her, and you will suffer!
**Bierce**: Pay no attention to him! His powers cannot reach you here.

Text changed in the Enhanced update is underlined.

**Bierce**: The ring piece. Place it at the altar, now! It's been so long... The ring is called the Riddle of Heaven. An ironic name, don't you think? A demon's power is contained inside it: the creature of infinite cruelty that you just met. Malak. Complete the ring, and you can use Malak's power to fulfill your darkest desires...or so the legend goes. Eight more pieces to go. Are you ready for another nightmare?
[*Going near Malak's Door Form*]

**Malak**: I see you!
**Malak**: I'm going to enjoy watching you suffer...
### Death Tips

* There are a lot of doors in the Hotel, maybe some of them open?
* The monkeys can always see you. Don't stop running!

## Chapter 2

[*Heading inside the Elementary Evil portal*]

(Additions are underlined)

### Elementary Evil

INT. AGATHA ELEMENTARY

**Bierce**: Don't you ever miss your school days? After all, it was the last time you were innocent. Another barrier. You know what to do.
**Agatha**: Oooh, a new friend! I'm so excited! Welcome! I heard we might be getting a new student here soon, so I put together this little welcoming party for ya! It's really nice to have someone new to play with. Don't tell the others, but they've been getting pretty boring lately. Hehe! But you'll spice things up around here, won't ya? You can share everything with me; all your secrets, all your mistakes, all your pain. That's what best friends are for, right?
**Bierce**: Looks like school is back in session...
**Agatha**: Ready or not, here I come!
[*Bierce notices a projector screen*]

**Bierce**: An unmarked grave. It must be hers.

* Coming to get ya!
* Did I say hurt a lot? I meant just a little, like a pinch, it's-it's nothing! Don't be such a baby!
* Don't worry, it will only hurt a lot!
* I bet you're over here.
* I can hear you breathing!
* I can smell you!
* I'm getting warmer!
* I'm gonna get you! I'm gonna get you! I'm gonna get you!
* I'm really good at hide and go seek!
* Let's play!
* Not scared of a little girl, are ya?
* Pain is love!
* Pain is necessary!
* Scared of a little girl?
* Share your delicious pain with all of us!
* Show me your pain!
* Stay here with us, forever!
* Stop stealing my friends!
* This is boring!
* Want to see what I can do?
* What's so great about a ring? Just stay here with me instead!
* What's the matter? Not having fun yet?
* Where'd you go?
* Why'd you run! There's nothing to be afraid of!
* You can join us!
 Spotted
* Got ya!
* There you are!
* I saw you!
* There you are, friend!
* Hello friend!
* Not very smart, are ya?
* I heard that!
 Chasing
* No fair!
* That's cheating!
* Those are mine!
* Why won't you be my friend?
 In a safe room

[*Writing on the wall*]
I Never Sleep -- No Forgiveness -- Heartless -- You can't run from your demons -- They trusted you -- Home Sweet Home

[*Progress*]

**Bierce**: That's all of the shards here, but it's only half.
**Bierce**: The ring barrier is still active, there must be more in another part of the school. Hurry, and find the next zone!
**Bierce**: There it is! The ring altar will always be found at the heart of each nightmare.
[*Zone 2*]

**Agatha**: Aww, you took all my friends! Well it's been a while since I got to play with anyone this long. But I can't play around with you anymore. Now, I'll show you what I can really do. Like what I done with the place?
**Bierce**: How creative. It's her victims, this school has become her dollhouse.
[*Progress*]

**Bierce**: That's the last of the shards. Now get to the ring piece, before Agatha gets you!
**Agatha**: You'll never get the ring, I won't let you!
**Bierce**: This is fine.
[*Escape*]

**Agatha**: I welcomed you here and I tried so hard to be nice with you but you don't care! You don't want to be my friend, you just want to steal my things! You're a mean... bad person! Now you're in trouble. You made daddy mad too.
**Malak**: End of the road, mortal. Give that back to me, mortal! Hand it over, and I will make your death quick!
**Bierce**: Move faster! Malak's here!
**Agatha**: Try to run, it won't do you any good.
[*Trying to shortcut*]

**Agatha**: Uh uh uh! No shortcuts!
[*Triggering Agatha's trap*]

**Bierce**: You fool! You triggered it!
[*Entering the auditorium*]

**Agatha**: Going somewhere? You! You'll never escape! I won't let you take my friends from me!
[Boss "fight" (Only in the Enhanced update)]

**Bierce**: It's open!
**Bierce**: Bierce! Stay out of my room! You're both cheating!
[*Dying to Agatha*]

**Bierce**: Agatha wants to play doctor. Too bad she's all out of anesthetic.
**Bierce**: Don't be scared. Agatha just likes to play a little rough...
**Bierce**: Girls just want to have fun... killing you.
**Bierce**: I haven't laughed that hard since I was a little girl!
**Bierce**: Tag! You're dead!
#### E's Note

(This got added in the Enhanced update)
> Bierce's portals are not the only way to move between realms. In the hotel, I found a relic imbued with the demon's power. It whispered its location to me. I'm not sure why it was there, but as long as I have it, I won't need the ring pieces. I could never get past the creatures that guard them anyway. Who would be suicidal enough to even try? The relic is not powerful, but it allows me to walk through the shadows like he does. However, it only takes me to places where he has been. I try to keep my distance from him when he appears. If he discovers me, my fate will be sealed. Now his path has led me to some sort of school. At least it looks like one. It's not like the hotel. It's much worse. I sense there is only one voice here and it is terrifying. Her appearance is that of a child, but that is no child. It didn't take her long to discover that I could see her. She purposely let me look deeper. I wish that I had not, because what I saw was unbearable. Sometimes, something so horrible happens to a child that their soul becomes corrupted by rage & sadness. When that happens, an evil child spirit is born from that suffering. This one's name is Agatha. The pain & suffering of children is a pain that she is forever tied to. She knew what my reaction would be. She is feeding on it. She is toying with me. I can hear her coming...
>
>

-E
[*Dying to Malak*]

**Bierce**: Idiot! Do not fail me again!
**Bierce**: You're trying my patience!
#### Death tips

* Agatha can teleport through closed doors. This takes longer than if they are open.
* Agatha won't pursue unless she has direct line of sight. Use that to your advantage.
* Agatha can teleport in Zone 2. Watch out for her cutting you off.
* Agatha can hear you opening/closing doors, be aware!

### Deadly Decadence

**???**: She was almost the same age. Memories betray me here. I need to keep going. I just need to survive a bit longer.
INT. BIERCE'S BALLROOM

**Bierce**: Two down, seven more to go. Want to try for another?
[*Entering Deadly Decadence portal*]

**Bierce**: You'll need more than speed boost to get across that. Fall into the pit and I think we can both guess where you'll end up. Fortunately for you, I can give you the power to jump across. No, not with those spindly legs of yours. I'm talking teleportation. Go to the ring altar. Go on, give it a try. I'll just... add it to to your tab.
EXT. THE MANOR

**Bierce**: Keep your eyes open, love. The statues in this place are awfully lifelike. I wonder who does the landscaping here. Very impressive.
**Bierce**: Watch your step! It's hard to run with a gaping hole in your foot!
**Bierce**: In case you were wondering, yes. Those footsteps are getting louder.
[*Progress*]

**Bierce**: Halfway there, and you're still alive. I don't know whether to be impressed, or disappointed.
**Bierce**: This zone is clear, get to the manor! How nostalgic. I used to have a manor like this. Much bigger, of course.
[*Signs*]
Beyond these gates, judgement awaits -- Tread no further, we are watching -- You paid no heed, now you shall bleed -- He who has gold, makes the rules -- Divine judgement falls on peasants through these halls -- The golden rule -- Peasants shall serve

INT. THE MANOR

**Bierce**: Is it terribly rude if you let yourself in unannounced?
**Bierce**: You found the altar, now get the rest of the shards.
**Bierce**: You've done it, now get the ring piece while you still can!
[*Finding the secret room*]

**Bierce**: They're using the rings' power to create living statues. What a waste.
[*E's Note; Enchanced Update only*]

> I escaped from Agatha, but not unscathed. She was able to deeply wound my left shoulder before I escaped. I almost passed out from the pain. I can still hear her shrill laughter. Thank goodness I have this relic or I'd already be dead. Mysteriously, my wound healed itself after I left her realm. The rules of this place continue to confuse me. It's nothing like the real world and it's always changing. Almost as if it is controlled by someone. Maybe it is that demon? His path has led me to an opulent manor now. I was so entranced by its luxurious beauty that I almost didn't notice them moving. This is no ordinary manor. The sheer amount of gold here reminds me of the story of King Midas. Many must have been seduced and lead to their deaths by it. The cursed souls of men corrupted by greed are drawn to this place. In life, they valued only wealth. Now they are encased in the very gold that they so loved, burning in it for eternity. A fitting end for them. All that remains is a ruthless golden golem. Each one is driven to kill anyone that might enter to steal their lord's precious treasures. I have decided to refer to them as Gold Watchers.
>
>

-E
[*Dying to the Gold Watchers*]

**Bierce**: Huh. Maybe you should rub some dirt on it.
**Bierce**: I think it wants to give you a hug. Isn't that sweet?
**Bierce**: Killed by a statue. You must be crushed.
**Bierce**: Now that's how you die in style!
**Bierce**: Ugh, is it really hard to outrun a statue?!
**Bierce**: You know what they say, love. Sticks and stones.
[*Writing on the walls*]
They held you backo -- They were weak -- You didn't need her then, you don't need her now -- You deserve better -- Abandon this pain -- LET THEM GO -- Don't change anything

[*Escape*]

**Bierce**: This nightmare is collapsing. You need to get back to the portal!
**Malak**: There's no escape for you, mortal!
[*Giant Gold Watcher emerges. Boss fight happens*]

INT. BIERCE'S BALLROOM

**Bierce**: I didn't think you'd make it this far, love, I really didn't! Who knows, you might just go all the way...
**Malak**: If you believe her, you're dumber than you look. Once she gets what she wants, you're done.
**Bierce**: Oh, yes, Trust the bloodthirsty demon; no doubt he has your best interests at heart!
**Malak**: Hrgghh...
#### Death tips

* Watch where you are going. Keep an eye out for traps!
* The watchers can still kill you if you're looking at them, so don't touch them unless they are stunned!
* The watchers are faster than your normal running speed, use Speed Boost when you have the chance!

## Chapter 3

### Stranger Sewers

**Bierce**: Six pieces left. Ready to try again?
[*Entering the Stranger Sewers portal*]

**Bierce**: Malak's blocked the entrance, now that's just pathetic, don't you think? Never fear, love. There's a solution. You'll just need to... rearrange your brain a bit. Go to the ring altar. Now, hold still. You might also want to close your eyes. It keeps them from popping out. Just don't let me catch you trying to see through anything besides walls...
INT. THE SEWER

**Bierce**: Not afraid of a little sewer water, are you? Just don't get any of it in your mouth. You've heard the urban legends, I'm sure. All kinds of things get flushed down here. Alligators. Goldfish. Duckies. Mmm... this sewer smells very... ripe. I think I just threw up in my mouth a little. Well, that's interesting.
[*Freed from Doom Ducky*]

**Bierce**: It's unlocked. They're trying to blend in, eh? Let's see how well you pay attention to details.
[*Progress*]

**Bierce**: You've gathered half the shards. Try to live long enough to get the rest.
[*Concerning rumbling*]

**Bierce**: I'm sure that rumbling is nothing to be concerned about.
**Bierce**: They're hiding in the shadows.
**Bierce**: You might want to take a shower after this.
[*Collecting all Soul Shards*]

**Bierce**: That's the last shard, get to the ring piece.
**Malak**: You can't speed boost your way out of death this time!
[*Doom Ducky fight*]

**Malak**: That's far enough, mortal. You know, you're the first of Bierce's pets to actually cause me some trouble. I should commend you for your tenacity. Well, commendable as you may be, I'm afraid your little streak ends here. Fortunately, watching you run around obediently has reminded me that I have a loyal pet as well. Here, let me introduce you, so you can both get more properly acquainted! Now, you'll have to excuse me. I must take my leave. Business calls elsewhere. Oh, and Bierce... I know you're there, peering through your little puppet. I'll be settling matters with you very soon.
**Bierce**: Now, that's a huge duckie. Use the pillars to slow it down!
[*Escape*]

**Bierce**: Getting back to the portal is not going to be so easy this time. Don't screw it up!
**Malak**: You're not out yet, mortal.
[*Dying*]

**Bierce**: Well, sometimes you eat the duck, and sometimes it eats you!
**Bierce**: Play dead, and maybe it will leave you alone. Or just die, that works too.
**Bierce**: I think it wants to take you home and meet its family. That's sweet!
**Bierce**: Oh, but it makes bath time so much fun, doesn't it?
**Bierce**: Yes, your corpse will float too.
**Bierce**: Duck, duck, die!
INT. BIERCE'S BALLROOM

**Malak**: ...It vexes me greatly that you're still here, mortal. Now she has another piece of that infernal ring. Every piece Bierce gets makes her more powerful. Don't you get that, meat sack? What do you think is going to happen when she doesn't need you anymore?
**Bierce**: He's right. I am getting more powerful. Powerful enough to fulfill your every wish. That's why you're here, isn't it?
**Malak**: Bierce, why not tell him what fate befell the last person that trusted you, hmm?
**Bierce**: ...
#### Secret Room

**Writings on the wall**: Insufferable--Just Like Her - Defective--Just Like Her--So Easy to forget - Remember? Your Ugly Duckling
**Note**:
> *I can't take these psychiatry visits anymore. The pills aren't helping her at all. I never know when she is going to freak out and have another episode. Everything triggers her. She's so needy all the time too. It's a neverending nightmare. She'll never be normal. She's just going to be a bipolar mess like her mother. Probably even crazier.*
>
>

> I tried my best, but they've both become insufferable. I never planned for any of this misery. I'm no family man. I really don't care what people think of me. Those two don't know how to be happy and they're sucking the joy out of my life. I need to cut them off while still I can. I've got plenty of money and a high profile career. I'm still young & attractive. I can start over. Hook up with a younger girl that's not mentally damaged. Do it right this time.
>
>

> I still need to do something about them though. No way I'm letting her take me for half. She'll use that defective kid to bleed money out of me forever. I want to be free of them and I want to forget they exist as soon as possible.
>
>

> Thankfully, she's not very bright. There might be a way.
>
>

**Dr. Angelo Simons' Psychiatric Evaluation**:

(Everything not underlined is only visible on the page sprite.)

> **Identifying Information:** The patient, Tammy Houser, is a 12 years old caucasian female, living with parents, with a mental health history that dates back to 1988. Patient was admitted by her father.
>
>
>
> **Chief Complaint:** The father says the daughter is prone to random severe mood swings & panic attacks. He also states that she acts impulsively, exhibiting risky and dangerous behavior in order to gain his attention. He fears that she will continue to harm herself or, eventually, other. There is a history of mental illness on the mother's side as well.
>
> **History of Present Illness:** Pertinent history in record: 4. During the assessement: Patient described her mood as fine and insisted that it has gotten better over the past few years. Despite her words, patient's self:::-Esteem appears low, anhedonia, sleep disturbance, does not appear to be eating well, loss in body weight, does not report change in energy, no reported changes in concentration or memory.
>
> Patient does exhibit signs of depression & anxiety when asked about her father. She is convinced that he is ignoring her and is obsessed with his legal career. She believes that he wishes she didn't exist. Patient does exhibit signs of past self harm, with scars on her left arm. Sending recommendation that she is potentially suffering from early bipolar disorder. Advising further tests and observation. Medication will be prescribed for depression and anxiety. I'll start with Oxcarbazepine.
>
>
>
>
> -Dr. Angela Simons
>
> *Tammy.....I wish I'd listened to you more, but you were nothing to me. I only saw your flaws. If you can hear me, believe in me this one time. I will change your fate.*
>
>

#### E's Note

(This got added in the Enhanced update)
> I managed to escape from the doll house. I'm not sure how much more of this I can take. The longer I follow the demon's path, the more nightmarish it becomes. Even with this relic, I doubt that I will last much longer. I can only hope that a way out lies somewhere within these sewers. It is quiet here. Too quiet. Everything seems worthless & forgotten. This sewer is full of rotten filth. I've learned that what you see is not always the reality though. There are unusually large duckies scattered about in every tunnel. I thought they were all hollow, but then I sensed something moving a short distance away. It seems some of the duckies are not as hollow as they appear. Instead, they contain the rotten souls of liars, flushed down to the sewers and left to decay. They are now creatures of deception, as they were in life. These dreadful duckies are trying to blend in and hide behind their false appearance, but my sense easily reveals them. There's something else lurking here though. Something much bigger and far more dangerous. I can hear it. It knows I'm here.
>
>

-E
#### Death Tips

* Use the telepathy power to spot the real Dread Duckies.
* To avoid being cornered, open as many sewer doors as you can.
* You don't have much time. Hit â€Fâ€ as fast as possible to recover from the Dread Ducky stun attack.
* Stay on dry land to recover your speed. Sewer water makes your speed boost slower!

### Crazy Carnevil

**Bierce**: Five more pieces to go, love. Care to try your luck again, or would you rather just stay here with me?
[*Entering the Crazy Carnevil portal*]

**Bierce**: Malak's left a monster to guard the entrance. Reeks of desperation, don't you think? You'll just have to scare it off. Stare into its eyes and convince it that you're the bigger monster. Trust me, it works. Just ask my late husband. Go to the ring altar.
EXT. THE CARNIVAL

**Bierce**: Aaah, the circus, those were pretty popular in my day. Such talent and showmanship. As a girl, the performance never failed to fill me with wonder. Watching them I wanted to become a star too... Now children just sit around and... what? Watch others play video games? Huh.
[*A clown car passes by*]

**Bierce**: Let me guess. Coulrophobia? I think they're inviting you in. Ready for the big top?
[*Picks up a mallet*]

**Bierce**: Go on, press it. You know you want to. Live a little! Oh my, you actually did it! I may have underestimated how little you consider the consequences of your actions.
[*Escapes the cage*]

**Bierce**: You seem to be far luckier here in this world.
INT. THE CARNIVAL

**Bierce**: Well, this is all a bit surreal. What an unusual nightmare. What's your connection to this place?
[*Rollercoaster*]

**Bierce**: Are you prone to motion sickness? I hope not, because there's plenty more of this here.
[*Enters Zone 2*]

**Bierce**: What's black and white and red all over? I'd start running before you find out.
[*Progress*]

**Bierce**: That's it! Now get to the ring piece.
**Malak**: You just don't know when to quit, do you?!
EXT. THE CARNIVAL

[*E's Note; Enhanced update only*]
> I've become aware that using the relic costs the user a terrible price. It slowly consumes their soul. I'm not imagining it. I can feel myself gradually getting weaker. I will try to avoid using it for as long as I can until I find a way out, but I'm starting to lose hope. Maybe there is no way out. Maybe this is hell. Everyone & everything here is a nightmare, so it makes sense. Was I a bad person? Did I do something unforgivable? What torments me more than the monsters is that I can't remember anything! Bierce seemed to know something previously I saw it in her eyes. Now the relic has brought me to an evil circus. This is not going to go well. I don't like clowns. I can already sense there are a lot of them here. I know their soul type. They are the wretched people that liked to troll. They spent their lives antagonizing & provoking others with a twisted pride. The actions of small minded cowards. Causing misery to others was just a souce[sic] of amusement for them. Now they are cursed to exist as the twisted little clown gremlins that they always were. One of many and eternally part of the circus.
>
>

-E
[*Goliath Clown*]

**Malak**: Ah-ah-ah! I've got you now, mortal. Here we are, yet again. It's not going to go so well for you this time. I'll finish you off here and take. Your. Soul... That said, seeing as you're so capable, let's up the ante a bit, shall we? I don't want to keep underestimating your luck. Keep 'em laughing while you die, won't you? Hahahaaha!
[*Dying*]

**Bierce**: Try laughing the pain away. Maybe that'll help.
**Bierce**: Oh, that's not funny. That's not funny at all!
**Bierce**: Well, I guess the joke's on you. And on the floor. And all over the walls.
**Bierce**: Ouch! Maybe you just need a better sense of humor.
**Bierce**: The only thing you have to fear is fear itself! Oh, and evil clowns.
**Bierce**: It would be funny if it wasn't so sad.
[*Escape*]

**Malak**: No! Impossible! Mortal... Your suffering will be eternal!
INT. BIERCE'S BALLROOM

**Malak**: ...You're only delaying the inevitable, Bierce. You can't keep me out of your little pocket dimension forever. I'm coming to collect what is owed, and I'm bringing your worst nightmares with me. You and the mortal are both going to pay... with interest. You give her that ring piece, and you're going to regret it.
**Bierce**: More lies and empty threats. You expect him to trust you, when you've tried to kill him at every turn?
**Malak**: Enjoy your moment. It won't last.
**Bierce**: What difference does it make? Bring the piece here, love.
#### Secret Room

**Writing on the wall**: You can't change what you are. - Time's Up!
**Note**:

> *I see them more often now. More clearly and more often than before. They dominate my dreams now in a way that never happened previously. Sometimes, when I am out doing my walk, I feel them watching me and I almost convince myself that I see them, their faces, hidden in the crowd of people. For a moment, I find myself wishing so much for it to be true. I doubt they'd be as happy to see me though.*
>
>
> I spent another Friday night with the group. It went about as well as it usually does. They are good people, all of them, but I don't think they will ever be able to help me. Faith and the power of the holy spirit have a profound impact on some, but for me they are just words that ring hollow.
>
>
> I've taken the pills to forget. I've prayed to forget. I've gone to group meets and therapy. I've done countless amounts charity & community work, but it never feels like enough. I still feel so.....empty. Maybe I'm just wasting my time or maybe I'm slowly going mad?
>
>
>
> I just wish there was a way to see them one more time. I'm not a terribly religious man, but if there is an afterlife, I know what's waiting for me when my time is up. I accept it and I deserve it. Just give me one last chance to right my biggest wrong before I go. I'm not sure that's even possible, but I'd pay any price to find out.
>
>

**World News**:

> Doug Houser turned himself into police in New York City this morning to face sexual misconduct charges, before being released on $100,000 cash bail. The disgraced defense attorney was carrying an 80000X and a newspaper as he got out of a luxury black SUV and walked past the swarm of TV cameras and reporters and though the front door of the New Your Police Department's 1st Precinct in Manhattan this morning.
>
>
> He was subsequently arrested, processed and charged with criminal sex act, sex abuse and sexual misconduct for alleged incidents involving five separate women, police said.
>
>
>
> *I thought I was so smart....so untouchable.... but I was and easy target for them. It was my own fault. a result of my own ego & desire. Just a fool playing the big shot. They loved what they could take from me, but they never loved me. Not like you both did.*
>
>

#### Death Tips

* Even cars can feel fear, use this to your advantage!
* Don't waste your Primal Fear on one Clown. Let them group up, and then break them.
* Don't be afraid to switch floors mid-collecting if things get too hot. Use the space given to you.
* Once one Grem Clown out of the same swarm spots you, all of them will be aware of your location.
* Your trusty mallet can get you out of a pinch, but don't get too cocky and go on a rampage.
* Goliaths will replenish beaten Clowns back to full numbers. Use their tactics against them!
* The more Goliath Clowns you destroy the more minions they spawn, beware!

## Chapter 4

### Torment Therapy

**Bierce**: We're halfway there, love. Just four pieces to go. Don't disappoint me now.
[*Entering the portal*]

**Bierce**: We need to get that soul shard to get the gate open. Naturally, it's behind those bars. Well, if Malak won't let us get to the shard, we'll have to make the orb come to us. Go to the ring altar.
[*Getting Telekenisis*]

**Bierce**: I just need to make a few more changes to your brain. Don't worry, if you start to feel dizzy, or you start to smell colors, just take a deep breath and wait for it to pass. [*Grants Doug Telekenisis*] If it doesn't pass, quit whining and get used to it. I'm a movie star, not a brain surgeon.
EXT. TORMENT THERAPY

**Bierce**: A hospital. Well, I guess everyone has to face their demons sooner or later. Maybe this place can help you with that.
INT. THE HOSPITAL

**Reaper Nurse (when interacting)**: Are your shots up to date?
**Reception Nurse**: Mm-hmm, mm-hmm, m-hm no problem! Mm-hm [*repeating*]
**Reception Nurse (when interacting)**: Mmm-hmm. No problem. Bierce? I see. How troublesome. Yep. We can handle that. Absolutely. Leave it to us. You don't have to worry about a thing! Well, speak of the devil. Looks like he just walked in. Ooh and he's a looker too. I'll get back to you shortly, okay? Bye bye now! [*Hang us phone*] Greetings and welcome to this place of healing & mercy! Mind if I take a closer look at you? Oh, you poor thing. I see that life was still not kind to you. You still carry around so much of that pain. It must weigh terrible on you. Ah, and now you've chosen to serve the deal breaker. How curious. Are you not aware that she offers only lies? Lord Malak can offer you so much more. You need only to return that which you have helped her take from him. We'll get to that later though. For now, you did the right thing coming here to see us. You don't need to suffer anymore. We can heal your soul. We can offer the beauty that you desire. You need only be ready & willing to accept our mercy. Do you wish to become one of our new new patients? (laughs) What am I saying? Of course you do. What a silly thing to ask. First things first though. We need to check your vitals. The deal breaker may have infected your body and mind as well as your soul. After all, Lord Malak's infinite power was never meant for mere mortals. You've been using them quite recklessly. There may be dire consequences for your health.
**Bierce**: I don't know what she's talking about, but she has a head in a bag. That's kind of a red flag, isn't it?
**Reaper Nurse**: Please, follow me.
[*Doug follows the nurse into a hallway of posing Reaper Nurses*]

**Reaper Nurse**: See anything you like?
**Bierce**: Kind of disturbing, but I do like her shoes.
[*Doug follows the nurse into an actual hospital-looking hallway*]

**Reaper Nurse**: Right in here.
[*Both are in a room with a weight scale*]

**Reaper Nurse**: Let's check your weights first, shall we? Once you are ready to begin accepting our mercy, please step up onto the scale.

**Bierce**: Are you sure you want to stand on it?
[*Doug steps on the scale, and narrowly dodges a sudden blast a fire placed directly on top of him.*]

**Reaper Nurse**: What? Is something wrong? My apologies. Must be a malfunction. Don't worry, I'll put in a work order to get that fixed.
**Bierce**: I don't know, something seems a bit off about that scale.
**Reaper Nurse**: Ok next up - we need to do a little lab work.
[*Doug follows the nurse into a padded room with holes in every wall*]

**Reaper Nurse**: I just need to take a small blood sample. You're not afraid of needles are you? Ok great! Stay right there and don't move! Wait until the timer reaches zero. I'll be right outside the door. [*She skates outside as the timer starts beeping*]
**Bierce**: Huh, maybe it's just me, but I don't think you want to still be in this room when that timer reaches zero. Find a way out of here!
[*Doug exits the room. Expectedly, long needles from the holes pierce throughout the room*]

**Reaper Nurse**: Didn't I say not to move?! So, you are afraid of needles. Noted! Let me remind you that we do not have time to play games with our patients. Please take this more seriously if you wish to be saved. [Skates to the next room]
**Bierce**: I think she might be trying to kill you. Big surprise... Be on guard!
**Reaper Nurse**: How about a chest x-ray? Are you afraid of those as well?
[*Doug and the nurse are in the x-ray room*]

**Reaper Nurse**: Let's try this again. Wait right there and this time don't move. It's your last chance. Same deal. Wait until the counter reaches zero. I'll be right outside. [*She exits the room as the x-ray machine starts charging up and a speed-boost wall blocks the exit. Doug escapes*] Where are you going? Come back here! I still have more tests to run! Sir! This is unacceptable! We will not accept unruly patients! [*Doug locks himself behind a hospital door*] (Sighs) What a shame. It seems you have been infected by that woman after all. you do not desire salvation. You are just another vile man after all. Chaotic and infectious, like a virus. Very well. We know how to deal with viruses. If eradication is your true desire, we shall grant it. It might be comforting to tell you that your death will be quick & painless, but that would be a lie. After all, we can get a bit carried away while performing our duties. However, I can promise you one thing. You'll never see it coming. [*Cloaks*]
**Bierce**: They can cloak? That's going to be troublesome. [Doug enters the disinfection room] So Malak's minions are not very fond of me. Shocking, I know.
[*Zone 1 entered*]

**P.A. Nurse**: [*Ding, dong*] Ladies, the hospital is now on complete lockdown. It seems we have an unruly patient on the loose that must be dealt with. Letal mercy is authorized!
**Bierce**: They could be anywhere. Stay alert. They might be invisible to the eye, but they can't hide from sounds.
[*After collecting all the Soul Shard in Zone 1, Doug continues on into the next zone. There, he gets ambushed*]

**Reaper Nurse**: Hey there, handsome! [*Jumps off the roof*]
[*Doug fends them off and climbs on top of a hospital truck. After riding, he looks over the railing to see the Matron*]

**Bierce**: Now that's a huge woman. Wait, did you hear something?
**Reaper Nurse**: [*Behind Doug*] Whatcha lookin' at? See anything you like?
**Bierce**: Look out!
[*The Reaper Nurse knocks Doug out cold*]

**Reaper Nurse**: Say goodnight!
**Bierce**: Wake up, you idiot! Oh, you careless oaf! Get up, NOW.
[*Doug wakes up in a cell*]

**Reaper Nurse**: Hey there, sleepyhead! Are you awake now? Good! You snore pretty loudly, you know. Welcome to our intensive therapy unit. You're gonna be here a while, and I have to thank you for saving us the trouble of bringing you down here ourselves. [*Doug runs to the open door, but it locks*] Ooh, you're still a tad unruly. But our rigorous treatment package should take that fight right out of ya! We need to get you prepared, ready, and wrapped with a bow for Lord Malak! I know, we'll start with some acupuncture! I mean, who doesn't like acupuncture, right? [*Skates to a lever*] Don't worry. The process if fully automated to guarantee the most effective treatment. [*Flicks switch*] See? [*The ceiling moves to reveal a slowly descending wall of spikes*] Now you just scream for me if you need anything, okay? Toodles! Bye bye! Bye-bye.
**Bierce**: In case you didn't notice, they're trying to kill you again. [*Doug breaks out*] That was close. [*Doug enters the room with some Reaper Nurses and the Matron seeking*] You need to find a way to get past her. Use your brain.
[*If Doug is spotted*]
**The Matron**: Reapers, stop him!

[*Doug gets by*]

**P.A. Nurse**: [*Ding dong*] Are you kidding me?! He escaped! This is unacceptable. We will not accept unruly patients!
**Bierce**: Some pretty intensive therapy in this place. Be careful that you don't actually become a patient.
[*Getting all shards*]

**Bierce**: No time to waste. Get to the ring piece!
[*Ring piece collected*]

**Bierce**: You got it! Now get out of this twisted hospital. Malak's not around? Maybe he's demoralized.
[*Boss fight*]

**The Matron (on P.A.)**: [*Ding dong*] Reapers, after him! Don't let him reach the portal!
**Reaper Nurse**: Lord Malak is on his way here now, mortal. However, this will be over long before he arrives. I don't know what it is that drives you to endure so much, but I do see you are lost, and you always will be! Whatever you're grasping for so desperately will always be just outta your reach! She won't be able to change that either! Regardless, Lord Malak has weighted priorities to deal with than one defying mortal soul that refuses to dissent. We will win his favor by ridding him of your intolerable presence once and for all! [The Matron arrives with buzzsaws for hands] Ah, there she is. Right on schedule. I think you'll find that she's not quite as hospitable as we are. You've eluded us, but you'll never get past her! [She attacks, but Doug dodges. He uses his stun, grabs her needle, and pushes her off the ambulance vehicle. It hits the Matron]
**Bierce**: That's it! Do that again.
**Bierce**: This is their idea of nursing?
**The Matron**: I'll crush you. Die!
**The Matron**: [*Gets hit*] Ugh! You'll pay for that! After him!
**The Matron**: [*Gets hit*] You dare hit a woman?!
**The Matron**: I'll grind you into dust! [*Charges*]
**The Matron**: Take this! AaaAAAAAAAAAA [*Charges*]
**The Matron**: Eat this!
[*Toppling over the Matron, Doug takes the elevator back upstairs. After passing by a disinfection room, he's greeted by two more Reaper Nurses*]

**Reaper Nurse**: Don't let him escape!
[*The two spin together, one of them throwing themselves to stab Doug. Doug teleports past the first nurse and kicks the other nurse to the ground*]

**Reaper Nurse**: How dare you!
[*Doug uses the tablet to send a shockwave, knocking over another Reaper Nurse along with forcefully opening the door. Passing by the nurses in the lobby, Doug enters the portal, ending the level*]

* Do you like scars?
* Just doing my job!
* Let's see how long you can keep this up.
* Those powers are not yours to possess!
* This is unacceptable. We will not accept unruly patients!
* [*Sighs*] What a shame. You do not desire salvation.
* You'll just feel a little pinch!
* Everything ends here.
* Hey there handsome!
* He's over there!
* Vaccination time!
* Beg for mercy!
* Come back here!
* Don't let 'im escape!
* Get em girls!
* Impure!
* This will kill the pain!
* Those powers are not yours to possess!
* Too slow!
* You're not fast enough!
* Did I scare you?
* Ow, that hurts!
* How dare you?!
* You'll pay for that!

[*Randomlu*]

**Bierce**: That's a big needle.
**Bierce**: Oh my, they are fast.
**Bierce**: Somehow, I don't think you'll find any atonement in her syringe.
**Bierce**: If you don't want to be a human pin cushion, you might want to move out of the way when they charge.
**Bierce**: Maybe you should've brought some rollerskates with you.
[*Dying*]

**Bierce**: Any last words? Too bad, nobody's listening.
**Bierce**: The governer called. You've been pardoned. Oops, too late.
**Bierce**: Ooh, that tingles.
**Bierce**: Smells like bacon frying. Oh wait, is that you?
INT. BIERCE'S BALLROOM

**Malak**: ...You are becoming quite opportunistic, mortal. How fortunate for you that I was already occupied with more pressing matters. That will not happen again. Thanks to the two of you, dangerous forces are now in motion. You are disrupting my business and I cannot afford to allow your insolence to continue any longer.
**Bierce**: Next thing you know, he'll be pleading with you. That's because he's losing. Soon, the ring will be mine again.
#### Secret notes

[*Doug's note*]

> She had another violent episode last night. We were arguing about Tammy's behavior problems at school again. I was in the middle of prepping defense for the trial of my life with a key client. I really had no time for another round of parenting ideas from her, but she just wouldn't let it go. She knows how to press all of my buttons and I'm pretty sure that she enjoys doing it. I lost it. I pushed her out of my office and I gave her a piece of mind. She just stood there for a minute and then that was the moment I saw it again - the rage in her eyes. She left the room and came back with a pair of scissors.
> That crazy \*\*\*\*\* tried to stab me! I was able to wrestle the scissors from her and then packed up my work and left. She was screamin out the door at me - telling me to run off to my secretaries and not come back or something like that. I could care less. Just more proof that all that therapy & medication isn't helping her. I don't think they have a pill strong enough for her level of psycho.
>
>

[*Doctor's prescription*]

> Prescription
> For: Mrs. Houser
> Address: 1462 Spring St. Apt 6, New York, NY
> Date: 12/01/1991
>
>
> Lithium Carbonate 600mg
> Disp: 100
> Long-term Control: 1200 to 1800 mg/day
> Regular release formulations: take one pill orally 2 to 3 times a day.
>
>
>
> Signed: Dr. Michael Paster
>
>

[*Doug's note 2*]

> I keep finding her empty prescription bottles hidden around the bedroom. She tells me it's her normal prescription fill, but I know she's lying. Somehow she's getting more medication than she should have. Now I'm finding new meds with names so long, I don't even know what they are. No surprise I suppose. She thinks she can solve all of her problems with therapy & pills. It's pathetic.
>
>
> She was sheltered her entire life by her kooky family and never learned how to deal with her issues. Now she's got me paying for everything and when things get too hard, she just runs home to her parents in Pittsburgh. Not that I mind that or anything. It's the perfect time to go out and meetup with some friends. It just kills me - of all the women in the world, why did I pick her? Just a sucker for a pretty face I guess. Now she's got me in her hooks. Financially speaking, it's cheaper to keep her. If it's not money. why does she stay?
>
>
>
> It just annoys me that she's so dependent on those pills. She's going to embarrass me publicly with her addiction at some point, which could hurt my partner status at the firm. She mindlessly shoves those pills into her mouth like candy. Honestly, I think you could put anything in those capsules and she wouldn't even notice. She'd still take them.
>
>

[*E's note*]

> As I feared, the circus and cathedral were just more dead ends. I had hoped to avoid making any more jumps, but there was no such luck. The additional jumps hit me harder than I was prepared for. The symptoms were excruciating and still have not yet fuly subsided. More and more, I'm aware that my time is running out. The demon's path led me to a rather large and ominous looking hospital. When I arrived. I was prepared for the next ridiculous nightmare, but instead I found it full of.....women. Nurses to be exact and they were quite unusual as well. On the surface they appeared to be beautiful women, but I could see that they were demons. They also wore medical bags over their heads while moving around on roller skates, which struck me as odd. didn't care to look at what was under those bags and I prefer to never find out. Like all the other monsters that I've encountered, their souls are bound in servitude to the demon whose footsteps I have been following. Even as I stood before them, the nurses didn't bother to attack me. They are demons that specifically prey on men and they call themselves "Reaper Nurses". I could feel in each of them the soul of a woman with a deep & scarring hatred for men. They were all born from that hatred. The hospital lures the souls of men that hate & disrespect women and offers them an eternity of torment by women that hate & disrespect men. How appropriate. They truly deserve each other
> As I stood there in silence, one of them skated over and offered me a seat in the lounge. She even brought me a pot of tea after seating me. I refused to drink it, expecting that it was poisoned or drugged. They seemed amused by my paranoia and laughed. After whispering to one another for a few seconds, one of them turned and asked me if I'd like to join the sisterhood of healing & mercy. They told me that my soul checked all of their boxes and that a "little initiation ritual" was all that was required to join. I wasn't sure what that meant, but it didn't sound good. As they were all holding large sharp syringes, I wondered if refusal would mean my immediate execution. I gripped my relic and prepared to jump as I declined their offer. They stood silently for a moment and then laughed more. They seemed unaffected by my response and told me to go ahead and make myself at home. I was allowed to explore the upper levels as much as I wanted, but not permitted to go near the restricted areas. As long as I did what they told me and didn't threaten their mission, I would remain safe. However, my curiosity was already piqued. Is there a way out in those restricted areas? I need to find out why they are off limits.
>
>

-E
#### Death tips

* Don't always do what you're told. The Reaper Nurses should not be trusted. (hospital tests)
* Use double doors to reveal the location of cloaked Reaper Nurses. Be careful though- the nurses can hear you open them as well.
* Watch your step. Sawblades in the floor can be difficult to see.
* Listen for skating sounds to determine if any Reaper Nurses are close to you.
* Use teleport to move between ambulances and stay out of the Matron's reach.
* You'll need a syringe to knock daze Reaper Nurses into the Matron.
* Check your tablet to see if you are within each Reaper Nurse's view. Avoid being detected.
* Use Primal Fear to stun the Reaper Nurses.

### Mascot Mayhem

**Bierce**: Three pieces left. You want a new start? A better life? I can give that to you. All that and more.
[*Entering the portal*]

**Bierce**: Malak thinks he's being clever. Now he's got a camera watching the entrances to keep you from getting past. Does he think I'm not capable of making you invisible whenever I want? Or shrinking you to the size of a cockroach? Or turning you into a cockroach if I so desire? Well I'll show him. Return to the ring altar. Fair warning, this...might hurt a bit.
EXT. MASCOT MAYHEM

**Bierce**: Welcome to... Joy Joy Land? Ugh, I've got a bad feeling about this place. I'd pick up the pace if I were you.
**Bierce**: Ugh, not very magical-looking, is it?
**Bierce:** More lasers, and another camera. You know what to do.

[*Doug gets pass the camera. The door ahead closes and the hallway lights up, revealing Penny and Lucky.*]

**Bierce**: Is that a rabbit?
**Lucky**: Haha, hey there buddy. I'm Lucky the Rabbit. Oh, and this is my good friend, Penny the Chicken.
**Penny**: Hi, I'm Penny the Chicken.
**Lucky**: And we're both members of the Joy Joy Gang! What about you? Are you ready to become one of the joyful? [And uncomfortable silence] Oho! Terrific! Seeing new visitors fulls us up with so much joy! To celebrate, we're going to sing our Joy Joy Song! Haha!
ðŸŽµ*Oh me, oh my, and oh boy! It's time to meet the Joy Joy Gang who puts a smile on everybody's face! Just open up your eyes and imagine your surprise! That this is everybody's happy place!*ðŸŽµ

**Lucky**: Haha, yay! Wasn't that fun? Good news, you may now enter our Joy Joy Land. Feel free to run around and have a Joy Joy good time! Haha. We'll be seeing you soon, buddy. Hehehe...
[*Clearing Zone 1*]

**Bierce**: Head back to the security checkpoint.
[*Doug heads through another hallway, where a window lights up again*]

**Lucky**: You know why they call me Lucky? Because I never lose. I hear you're pretty lucky too. Let's see how lucky you are.
[*The door bursts open*]

**Bierce**: It's a trap. Run!
**Bierce**: [*Notices the crowd of Lucky and Penny animatronics*] Well aren't you popular. Remember when I said nobody like you? Well, they can't get enough of you here. [*The gate seperating Doug and the Joy Joy Gang closes*] That's pretty disturbing. The gate is securely locked, right? [Doug presses the elevator button] I think they're looking at you... No sudden movements... Maybe if you don't move, they can't see you. So... creepy...
[*Doug heads in the elevator to go down*]

**Lucky**: Heading down, huh? Hangry will be happy to hear that.
**Bierce**: Remember when I said I had a bad feeling about this place? Now I'm REALLY getting a bad feeling about this place.
INT. SECURITY CONTROL CENTER

**Computer**: Systems offline. Zone three access restricted. Please restore power in zone two.
**Bierce**: Some kind of control room? Everything is offline, though.
INT. RESEARCH + DEVELOPMENT

[*Another window lights up, revealing Hangry*]

**Hangry**: Hi, I'm Hangry! I'm a pig. Hoho, ribs are my joy! I haven't had a meal in forever. Come closer. Is that... oh, are those ribs?! You look delicious! You mind if I put a little barbeque sauce on ya? I got my own recipe. [*Laughs*]
**Bierce**: Great. Now there's a pig, too. Well atleast you'll have to deal with this one. I had to deal with one my entire life.
[*Doug enters a door, where Lucky's standing there*]

**Lucky**: Hangry's not himself when he's hungry. Kind of loses control around fresh meaty ribs, you know what I mean? Goes a little crazy. But aren't we all a little crazy? After all, it's a mad mad world! [*Laughs madly and runs away*]
**Bierce**: That pig looks pretty powerful. It's probably a good idea not to let it get too close.
[*Zone 2 cleared. Doug reaches a control panel*]

**Lucky**: Doesn't look like Bierce has your back, huh buddy?
**Bierce**: A flashing red button? Might as well push it. Maybe the second time is the charm. [*This line was removed after an update*]
[*Doug hits the red button, returning power*]

**Hangry**: Guys? Why's he hittin' that button? Wuh-oh, that ain't good.
[*Coincidentally, the Joy Joy Gang are standing on the only puddle of water with exposed wiring on it. They get shocked and lock down*]

**Bierce**: I'm not really feeling the joy yet. How about you?
INT. PRODUCTION FACTORY

**Bierce**: Where are we? Some kind of processing plant?
**Computer**: Unauthorized intruder detected. Dispatching Joy Joy Gang.
**Computer**: Processor unit stopped. Reboot breaker switch to resume crusher function.
**Lucky**: Missed me, buddy?!
**Hangry**: You... little freak! You ruined my mouth!
**Penny**: Squishy, look what you did to my face!! You made me ugly... Who's gonna take photos with me now?!
**Bierce**: It's another ambush!
**Penny**: You're ugly, I hate everything! No! Bad squishy!

* Beginner's luck.
* Come on, buddy, you're wating my time here!
* Come out, come out, wherever you are~!
* Doesn't look like Bierce has your back, huh buddy?
* Find him!
* Oh, I guess you are lucky.
* Penny's got a soft spot for mortals. Me? Not so much.
* We lost him!
* What are you afraid of?
* a know, I don't think he appreciates our joy!
* You don't got the luck today, do ya?
* You don't talk much, do ya buddy?
* You feeling lucky buddy? Huh?
* You lost him!
* H-h-here I come!
* I don't b-b-bite, y'know! Well, maybe just a little.
* I just want to give you a b-b-big ol' Joy Joy hug!
* I'm just gonna call you squishy, 'cause I love squishy things!
* I'm really good at finding things!
* I'm gonna share my joy with you!
* Wanna take a selfie with me?
* What are ya runnin' for? Don't you wanna feel my joy?
* Why won't ya let me pet you? Just kiddin'! I'm not angry!
* You're just like a little worm; so squishy!
* Fast food? I'm fine with that.
* Uhuh, gotta make me work for it, huh?!
* I can smell your ribs.
* I love ribs. Can I smell yours?
* I will break you.
* I would be a lot happier if you just hop in my mouth.
* I'm gonna pulverize ya.
* I'm gonna use your bones to pick my teeth!
* Mortal meat is the best!
* Ohoh, you smell so good!
* Oh, I just want to eat you!
* RIIIIIIBS!!
* Sorry, but I'm not vegetarian.
* Sorry, but Lucky says I gotta rip your arms off.
* Want a Hangry plushie? Hah, I can get you one.
* What? I eat when I'm stressed. It's, uh, it's a condition.
* What flavor are you, huh?
* You have so many ribs! Can't I have just one?
* You're just making me hungrier.
 **Spotted** | * I got you now!
* I heard something.
* Oh, there you are.
* Oh, you don't look very joyful!
* Ooh, nice tablet you got there. Mind if I borrow it? Don't worry, I'll give it back.
* Over there!
* Penny! Come with me!
* Tough luck.
* Happy Birthday!
* Here I come!
* Hi again!
* I see you!
* Lucky, I found him!
* Surpriiiiise!
* Hello, little mortal...
* He's mine!
* He's in that room!
* He's over there!
* Here I come!
* I'm coming!
* I saw him first!
* Lucky, I found 'im!
* Meat!
* Now I got ya!
* Oh, Lucky, I found 'im!
* Oh, there you are!
* What you lookin' at?
* What? [*Snort*] You got a problem with pigs?!
 **Chasing** | * Hoppity, hoppity, hop!
* I've got you now! [*Uses his boost*]
* Miss me, buddy?
* Wanna race? [*Uses his boost*]
* Where you going buddy? The fun's just starting!
* Winner, winner! [*Uses his boost*]
* You can't run forever!
* Joy, joy, joy!
* Don't leave me!
* Have an egg! [*Throws egg*]**Bierce**: What a waste of egg...
* Here I come!
* I just wanna give you a b-big ol' Joy Joy hug!
* No! Bad squishy!
* So squishy!
* Squishy, come back!
* Wanna see what I can do? [*Throws egg*]
* You like eggs! [*Throws egg*]
* Gah, I'm so hungry!
* [*Punches through a wall*] Hangry Punch!
* Hold still!
* I just want a small bite. You won't even feel it!
* I'm gonna devour you!
* I'm gonna tear this place apart!
* I will chew the meat off your bones!
* Ribs, ribs, riiibs!
* Ribs are life!
* [*Stops to catch his breath*] Slow down...
* [*Punches through a wall*] Smash!
* So juicy...
* Stop running so fast!
* Stop squirmin'!
* You get back here!
 **Stunned** | * Don't get cocky.
* Heh, that all you got?
* I didn't feel nothing.
* Ooh hoo hoo.. You're gonna pay for that!
* Woah, what a sucker punch!
* You think that's gonna stop me?
* Dang it.
* Gosh darnit...
* Really?
* Stop that!
* That's going to leave a mark.
* That tickled.
* What's your problem?
 **Killing** |  | * Happy birthday!

[*Zone 3 cleared. Doug hits a reset button and leaves the zone. The Joy Joy Gang run after him*]

**Lucky**: Over there!
**Bierce**: Hit the button. Crush them!
[*The crusher crushes the robots*]

**Bierce**: Ha! Take that! Now that they're out of the way, find a way back up to the control room.
[*Doug attempts to leave, but the door leading to the elevator closes*]

**Malak**: Not so fast, mortal. Don't celebrate just yet. After all, that's not even their final form. Time for something new and improved.
[*A red laser scans the Joy Joy Gang remains and they disappear*]

**Computer**: Salvage Mode activated. Project Joy Kill is now initiated. Constructing.
[*The red laser constructs a mechanical hulk that combines the three Joy Joy Gang members; Joy Kill*]

**Computer**: Joy Kill unit completed. Have a joy joy day.
**Lucky Head**: [*Laughs*] I'm back!
**Penny Head**: Haha, look at me! You're in buck-buck-big trouble now, squishy!
**Hangry Head**: Ha ha ha, I can eat WAY more ribs with this body!
**Lucky Head**: Geez, Hangry. Why does everything gotta be about food?
**Hangry Head**: Sorry. I just get to hungry.
**Penny Head**: Hey, Hangry! I wanna try one of his ribs too!
**Lucky Head**: You see, buddy? Luck will always be on my side!
**Bierce**: Try crushing it again.
[*Doug runs to the crushing button, but the crusher just pitifully bumps against Joy Kill*]

**Lucky Head**: Ha! You think that's gonna work with me now?! [*Penny and Hangry laser the crusher, removing it*]
**Bierce**: That didn't work?! This thing is invincible!
**Malak**: Finish him.
**Bierce**: Don't let that thing near you. How are you going to beat that? You need to find a way to finish it off permanently. Look, that vat of molten steel below. It might be our only hope. Find a way to knock that thing in.
[*Doug manages to flick all 4 switches and pushes the Joy Kill into the vat of molten steel*]

**Joy Kill**: [*Screams*] No, no, no!
**Lucky Head**: I'm your worst nightmare, buddy! You ain't gettin' out, you hear me!? There's no way out for you!
**Computer**: Self-destruct sequence has been initiated. Repeat, self-destruct sequence has been initiated. [Repeat]
INT. SECURITY HUB

**Computer**: Unauthorized collection of ring piece. Two minute security lockdown has been initiated. Security in on-route.
**Bierce**: You're locked in!
[*Joy Kill punches through the monitor*]

**Lucky Head**: I'm Lucky the fricking Rabbit! And nobody's more luckier. Nobody!
**Bierce**: Please stay alive until the door opens.

* **Lucky Head**: Hey buddy, I'm right behind ya!
* **Lucky Head**: I'm comin' for ya, buddy!
* **Lucky Head**: [*Laughter*]
* **Lucky Head**: Where ya goin' buddy? The fun's just starting!
* **Lucky Head**: You can't run forever!
 **Gameplay** | * **Lucky Head**: Eat this! [*Shoots laser*]
* **Lucky Head**: Murder this chump! [*Shoots laser*]
* **Lucky Head**: Take that! [*Shoots laser*]
* **Lucky Head**: Hoppity, hoppity, HOP! [Leaps]
* **Penny Head**: Here an egg! [*Throws egg*]

**Bierce**: It's open!
**Lucky Head**: Wahaha-aaaw! This is not over!
EXT. JOY JOY LAND

**Bierce**: Escape, run!
[*Joy Kill suddenly jumps infront of the gate*]

**Lucky Head**: Ooohoho, so close! You weren't thinking of leaving already, were ya?
[*Doug is catched by a Lucky the Rabbit from behind*]

**Lucky**: You really hurt my feeling! [*Punches Doug towards a Penny the Chicken*]
**Penny**: You can't leave without saying goodbye! [*Punches Doug towards a Hangry the Pig*]
**Hangry**: Dinnertime! [*Punches Doug to the ground*] Haha, there you go! I like my meat pretty bloody.
[*A fake game over screen appears*]

**Lucky**: Too bad. I'm not done with you yet!
**Penny**: Yeaheah! Mess him up!
[*The Joy Joy Gang kick Doug as the Joy Joy Ditty plays*]

**Malak**: That's enough. He's mine now.
**Bierce**: Curse you, demon!
**Penny**: Haha! That felt pretty good!
**Hangry**: I know, right?
**Lucky**: Weak mortal. Look at you now! I told you it wasn't over! He's all yours, boss. Sorry about the mess. We broke 'im down real good for ya.
**Malak**: I can see that. Excellent work. How the mighty have fallen, eh mortal? I told you this would end badly for you. No use resisting. You're going to show me everything, whether you want to or not.
[*Malak enters Doug's mind*]

[*Dying*]

**Bierce**: Well that was lame. I liked the way you died before better.
**Bierce**: If you're dead, who's going to eat all this terrible pizza?
**Bierce**: Death by furry...? I can't even mock you, it's too easy!
**Bierce**: Maybe if you lie still and bleed for him, he'll sing you a song.
**Bierce**: I guess the ticket prices aren't the most painful part of this experience.
**Bierce**: Well, at least you didn't have to wait in line for hours to die!
**Bierce**: You've been terminated... humanely, I'm sure.
#### Secret Notes

[*Pittsburgh Police Department. Ronald H. Murdock is the Chief of Police*]

> On Friday February 28th, 1992 @1738 hrs, the Pittsburgh City Police Department received a report of an auto accident in the area of McKees Rocks Bridge. Upon arrival, police located a multi-vehicle crash on the bridge. One vehicle was partially hanging over the edge of the bridge and another was discovered to have been pushed by the collision through the guard railings and into the river below.
>
>
> A total of 4 deaths resulted from the accident. The driver and passenger in the vehicle that plunged into the river both died as a result of severe injuries sustained in the accident. The vehicle was engulfed in flames before entering the water. The driver (and registered owner of the vehicle) is Clarissa Houser, W/F/33. Passenger is Tammy Houser W/F/12. Information for both will be released pending positive identification. The driver was operating a 1990 500SE
>
>
>
> Preliminary investigation revealed that a drug overdose may have been a contributing factor to the accident. Fragments of prescription medication containers were found at the site and within the vehicle. No signs of foul play. Suicide has not been ruled out.
>
>

[*Accident report*]

> Accident #: 311
>
>
> Date of Accident: 02/28/1992
>
>
> Time of Acceident: 5:38PM
>
>
> Operator #: 7802
>
>
> Location: McKees Rocks County Allegheny
>
>
> INJURED
>
>
> - Winston Miller Age: 42 City of Residence: Pittsburgh, PA Sex: M Driver: Y Passenger: N
>
>
> KILLED
>
>
>
> - Clarissa Houser Age:33 City of Residence: New York, NY Sex F Driver y Passenger N
> -Tammy Houser Age:12 City of Residence New York, NY Sex F Driver: N Passenger: Y
> - Robin Delanie Age 25 City of Residence Pittsburgh, PA Sex: F Driver y Passenger N
> - Marisa Delanie Age: 26 City of Residence Pittsburgh, PA Sex F Driver N Passenger: Y
>
>

[*E's note*]

> The Reaper Nurses did not take kindly to my snooping around their restricted areas. In the end, even with my abilities there were too many of them. I did not find an exit or anything I could use to restore my memory. After the jump. I couldn't move. I was paralyzed with pain and could only stare at the ground, waiting for it to pass. As I opened my eyes, I saw that I was on top of something large and metallic. It was a giant medallion of some sort and had....animals on it? A rabbit, a pig, and a chicken to be precise
>
>
> Suddenly I heard a voice yell out to me from above. The voice sounded friendly, but I could feel the malice behind it. I staggered to my feet and looked up. Before me was a massive castle facade. It was like something out of an amusement park. A large yellow rabbit was dancing on a platform above the drawbridge gate. It looked like some sort of twisted mascot. I could tell immediately that this one was different from the others. It was a killing machine. One built purely for violence & chaos. There was a soul of some sort inside the machine, but it was not human.
>
>
> I tried to run from the rabbit, but didn't get far. I was stopped by another mascot - a pig. It attacked me and missed, obliterating the side of the castle wall in the process and leaving a large hole. In a blind panic, I tried to use the relic to escape, but the rabbit grabbed me violently from behind and lifted me up by the throat, strangling me in the air while laughing maniacally. It took a loose brick to the face to startle it enough to allow me to break free. My landing was not a soft one. I landed sideways on the sharp rubble and barbed wire of the brick wall. Severely wounded, I barely escaped by rolling into the moat water below before the rabbit could grab me. The rabbit screamed profanities and threw bricks at me as I disappeared into the cold water of the moat. For some reason it did not follow me into the water. As I sank deeper, the rabbit's voice disappeared entirely and it was silent for a while. In that moment I felt myself drifting away and my remaining consciousness fading. I no longer even felt the need to breathe. This was how it would end. Then, suddenly, I heard another voice speak out from the depths. It was the demon. "Ah there you are" it said. "Aww. So much pain. So much despair. Perhaps I can help you, mortal. I have an offer that might interest you. All you have to do is take your little toy and seek me out when you are ready.". As I heard his words, my eyes opened a bit and saw a demonic red face glaring back at me from the depths. A crushing pain immediately filled my head and twisted words began repeating in my mind "Don't you have someone to kill?", they whispered over and over again. Terrified and ignoring my pain, I swam back to the surface in a panic, Conveniently, I discovered that the rabbit and pig were nowhere to be found. I clung to the castle wall and waited, wondering if the demon in the water would emerge to finish me off. I was careless and it seemed that the demon had finally noticed my presence. However, nothing happened. Reflecting, I wondered what the demon had meant? I had no idea where to find him nor would be stupid enough to actually go. It would definitely be the end of me. Wounded as I was. I managed to drag myself up out of the moat.
>
>
>
> It's getting harder to find moments long enough to write these notes. I will continue to do it for as long as I have the strength. I doubt that the rabbit will be gone for long and I need to jump in order to heal my wounds. To any unfortunate souls that come to this place and find this message - leave quickly before it's too late.
>
>

-E
#### Death Tips

* Watch out for bombs tossed by Lucky clones in the air.
* Penny's eggs will stun you. Try not to get hit by them.
* Don't get too close to walls. You never know which walls Hangry and his clones will smash through.
* Hangry gets tired after running for a while. Use that to your advantage.
* Lucky uses speed boost too, so don't waste your speed boost power. Save it and use it to escape Lucky's pursuit.
* You need to find a way to lure Joy Kill in front of the active crusher piston.

#### Doug's mind

**Doug**: I'm still alive? Where am I?
**Malak**: Now we can get to know each other a little better... Let's see what horrors lie in that little brain of yours, shall we?
**Doug**: Horrors? He can't mean...
**Malak**: That's better. I'll be stepping in for Bierce for this process. You don't mind, do you? [*Laughs*] Let's see what secrets lie in the dark recesses of your memory. You're not afraid of the dark, are you? [*Laughs*]
[*A light trail of pills appear. Doug follows*]

**Malak**: Keep going. We're not done yet... Just a little further...
[*Doug sees a scene of a marble statue of a cowering girl on some stairs*]

**Doug**: No... It can't be...
**Malak**: A family home, how charming... Who's the cowering little girl? Your daughter. How interesting... Not the daughter you wanted though. A defect. Damaged. The same as her mother...
[*A light opens. It's a marble statue of Doug arguing with his wife*]

**Statue Doug**: I am getting sick of her public meltdowns. Why am I always being called out of work to deal with her, huh? From now on, you deal with her!

**Statue Doug**: We both know she got it from you. You're the bipolar mess and you passed it on to our kid. Are you happy? If I would've known how messed up you were I would have never married you. Jokes on me I guess!
**Elise**: [*Laughs*] Here we go again! Yep, that's all you ever say. Yeah, I know what you think of me. Sorry to ruin your life. All you really need is your money and your secretaries, right?
**Statue Doug**: What is wrong with the two of you? Why can't you just be NORMAL?!
**Elise**: You pretend we don't even exist. Even if you hate me now, Tammy needs you. And all you care about is your stupid work! Tammy could drop dead and you wouldn't even notice. What kind of a man are you?
**Statue Doug**: All I know is, you two are sucking the joy out of my life. I'm sick of it! I don't need this garbage every single day. Yeah, I know. You don't wanna hear it, you just wanna hear that nothing is wrong with you and it's all my fault, right?!
[*The light between the argument turns off*]

**Malak**: They really killed the joy in your life, didn't they? That must've been a terrible burden for you.
**Doug**: Tammy... I'm sorry I could never love you unconditionally. I'm- I'm sorry those were the last words you heard me speak.
[*Doug continues following the pill trail*]

**Malak**: So you were not the best family man, not much of a secret. This is small potatoes, where's the real meat?
[*Doug encounters another scene. It's an office and there are two statues; Doug affectionately touching someone else*]

**Mistress**: When are you going to deal with your wife?
**Statue Doug**: Look, I said I'd take care of it. She's an idiot. I will get her out of the picture one way or the other. Just trust me and be patient, okay? Don't do anything stupid.
**Mistress**: Your daughter is going to hate me though, right? That's going to be really awkward. Does she have to live with us?
**Statue Doug**: Uh-uh, Tammy is not the problem. Yeah, she's a messed up kid but, she won't get in the way. She's at that age where she doesn't like her mother all that much either. She'll side with me.
**Mistress**: I hope you're right. I'm getting tired of waiting for you to keep your word. Remember you promised me!
**Statue Doug**: Oh yeah? Well how's that new car treating ya? Just like I promised right? So, I'll meet you there tonight. Elise thinks I'm going out of town for a conference for three days.
**Mistress**: Okay, but don't expect any monkey business in some hotel afterwards. You owe me a nice night out.
**Malak**: Till death do you part, eh? So much for wedding vows. I can't say I blame you, they were all upgrades weren't they? There's no shame in indulging yourself. You only live once.
**Doug**: That's not who I am anymore. He's- He's reading my memories. I have to escape before he finds out too much.
[*Doug follows the pill trail to a scene of himself, flesh and blood, in the hospital*]

**Doug**: No! He found me already?!
**Malak**: Ah, now we're getting warmer. Doug Houser, how pathetic. So this is what you really look like. quite the contrast. Your soul looks so much younger. Is that how you see yourself on the inside? Must be the narcissism. [*Notices the blood markings under his head*] Nice blood ritual! Did you look that up online? Quite a desperate act. What motivated you to do it? Was it, the cancer? Or something else? Something more painful perhaps... Tell me, Doug. What's really eating away at your soul? Why are you so full of regret? Show me.
**Doug**: Stop it! Get out- LET ME GO!!!
**Malak**: Ah there it is! Let's go deeper and take a look, shall we?
**Doug**: Not that place! Please! Not that place! Please-
[*Doug is in a scene that's on a bridge. Police cars with sirens surrounding the recent scene*]

**Malak**: Well now! This is more like it!
**Doug**: No! Don't bring me here!
**Malak**: Don't back away, Doug. Come closer... What's down there in the water, Doug? A car? Is that them? Is that your family? How tragic... But why would you feel regret for that? You hated them didn't you? Accidents do happen, you can't blame yourself for that. Unless... Was it REALLY an accident? Did you have something to do with it, Doug? What did you do... It's time to wake up, Tammy! Your dear father has come all this way to see you!
[*A black silhouetted figure of Tammy rises from under the water*]

**Malak**: Ah, there she is... Ooh, I can see why you were so disappointed in her, Doug. Not much to look at. Below average in almost every way... It must've been embarrassing to call such a disappointing girl your daughter. After all, a man as great and accomplished as yourself deserved better. No? Am I wrong? What do you think, Tammy?
[*Tammy glows red with an aura behind her. She vanishes, but reappears on the bridge with everything else in her path disappearing*]

**Tammy**: You did this!
**Malak**: Go give your daddy a big hug. I think he wants to tell you how sorry he is. [*Laughs*]
**Doug**: Tammy! I didn't want this! I didn't know she would drive! You were never su-
**Tammy**: Murderer!
[*Tammy charges Doug, slashing him when close. Apparently, Doug is now marked with Malak's sigil*]

**Malak**: [*Laughter*] You're my puppet now, mortal. And I've got a job for you...
EXT. JOY JOY LAND

**Malak**: It's done. Just a little present for Bierce. Go ahead and toss him back. Time for Bierce to finally pay back what is owed.
**Hangry**: What? You said I could eat him!
**Lucky**: You heard the boss, Hangry. Take out the garbage.
**Hangry**: [*Frustration*] Oh, alright. Atleast I got a bite. What a waste of good rib meat.
**Lucky**: Good night, sweet prince. [*Chuckles*]
**Penny**: Bye-bye, squishy!
**Hangry**: [*Picks up Doug*] Boss man says you gotta go, so, adios! [*Tosses Doug into the portal*]
INT. BIERCE'S BALLROOM

**Bierce**: There you are! What happened?! What did he do to you?! How do you escape? You're a bit worse for wear, but you're still alive, and you have the ring piece. Such a relief! I thought you were a gone. That would have made all of this for nothing. Capable souls are hard to find after all. I'd rather not waste my time waiting for another. Yes, that was a compliment. Don't get cocky. Time to go shower yourself. Take a short breather and pull yourself together. The next nightmare waits and time is running out.
[*Suddenly, the portals start closing and Malak's eye on the door disappears*]

**Bierce**: What the...? What's happening? The eye! What did you do?!
**Malak**: [*Struts out of a portal*] Did you miss me, Bierce?
**Bierce**: You idiot! you let him in! Do you realize what you've done?!
**Malak**: Don't be so hard on the poor boy. I marked his mind. No, he resisted, but there was nothing he could do to stop it. You always knew this moment would come.
**Bierce**: Is that so? I guess I should thank you then. If I finish you off here, getting the rest of the ring pieces will be much easier. Even this fool won't mess that up.
**Malak**: How naÃ¯ve! Even now, you really believe you have a chance!
**Bierce**: You think you can claim me, Malak? I'm not as powerless as I was before.
**Malak**: You've always belonged to me, Bierce. Nothing will change that.
[*Bierce shrugs her shoulder and harnesses the power of the ring pieces. She constricts Malak and hurls him across several of the ballroom's pillars before slamming him down. She conjures up some soul shards and nails Malak down with them*]

**Malak**: Argh!
**Bierce**: [*Laughs*] How does it feel, demon? To be beaten, and at my mercy for a change? You think you're so clever, and yet somehow I always win. Beaten by a mere mortal. To think I was silly enough to fear you all this time... The ring's power is even greater than I imagined.
[*Malak starts laughing*]

**Bierce**: What are you laughing about?!
[*Malak's laughing reaches a high point as several Malaks start coming out of each of the portals*]

**Bierce**: What trickery is this?!
**Malak (from nowhere)**: What's the matter, Bierce? Don't lose your confidence so quickly.
**Bierce**: It doesn't matter how many clones you make. I'll destroy them all! I'm too powerful to stop now, Malak! I've beaten you!
[*Bierce throws several soul shards to the Malaks, making them disappear. Bierce looks around, but her confidence fades as more Malaks appear out of them. The soul shards holding down the first Malak slide off of him and he gets up*]

**Malak**: Oh, and one more thing, Bierce. Do you remember what I said before? I promised I'd be coming, and that I'd be bringing your worst nightmares with me. Well, I always keep my promises. [*Laughs*]
[*The recent Malaks appearing out of the portal turn into their portal's respective monster sans Reaper Nurses and post-Mascot Mayhem monsters. The ballroom turns ablaze as Bierce looks around, dazed. Agatha teleports from her position and lands on Bierce's shoulder. Agatha laughs*]

**Bierce**: Agatha?! No, get off me you little brat! Don't you dare touch me!
**Malak**: What, you're not happy to see her again?
[*Agatha stabs her hands through Bierce's back. Agatha yells as she lands on her back*]

**Agatha**: Aw, does it hurt, Biercie? You should've stayed out of my room. Not sorry at all, are you? Well that's okay, an apology isn't going to save you. I'm going to help daddy tear you apart, piece by piece. [*Laughs*] It'll be fun! Oh, goodie! That mean man that took all my friends is here too! Hiya!
**Bierce**: It was necessary. I had to do it.
**Malak**: Ah yes, and it was beautiful work. I enjoyed your little offering. Too bad you refused to know your place.
**Agatha**: Can I stab her face?
**Malak**: Yes, yes... There'll be plenty of time for that. But first, let's get what we came for.
**Agatha**: Awww...
**Malak**: Ah good, all here. I'll be taking these back now.
**Bierce**: You filthy demon... Those are mine! [*To Doug*] He's taking the ring pieces... If you ever want to see them again, get up right now and stop him!
[*Malak collects all of the ring pieces*]

**Bierce**: NO, THOSE ARE MINE! This is not over, Malak... I won't let it end this way.
**Agatha**: Gee, are you still whining? Shut up and die already!
**Bierce**: [*Coughs*] You think you've won, Malak? You don't have them all... [*She reveals a hidden ring piece under her*] The one I took from you that day.
**Malak**: What?! How did you bind that one?!
**Bierce**: I... will ALWAYS have it. Begone from this place, demon!
[*Bierce emits a shockwave, dispelling all demons and monsters in the ballroom]*
**Malak (from nowhere)**: Bah, you're only delaying the inevitable, Bierce. The outcome has not changed, and the ring pieces are coming with me! I'll be taking your little puppet as well!

[*Doug is dragged into Bearly Buried*]

### Bearly Buried

EXT. BEARLY BURIED

**Malak**: Ah, that's better. She can't interfere here. No more lucky breaks, mortal. Fate has finally caught up to you. Time for you to join your family - permanently. [*Throws Doug in front of a wooden cabin*] Look around you. Do you even know where you truly are?
**Doug**: W-What is this place?
**Malak**: You mortals have always believed in the existence of heaven & hell. It's a rather quaint and amusing concept. In truth, there is a dark dimension. All evil souls eventually gather there and wage war to become to ultimate evil. This place, and my realm, are a part of it. You've been meddling in my affairs all this time, but I am no ordinary demon. Over countless millennia, I have grown my army and my power with the rivals that I have vanquished and the mortal souls that I have acquired. You could say business has been booming. Bierce was one of those souls. She never told you her little story did she? A century ago, Bierce offered her soul to me. She wanted to be a movie star. A trite request, but I agreed nonetheless. I just required a tribute from her first.....a small offering. (chuckles) I have Bierce what she wanted, but when I came to collect, she decided to get cute. She thought she could get out of her contract by using that accursed ring. However, I didn't become an elite evil by letting my guard down. Her little ambush failed. I shattered the ring and took the pieces, but it wasn't enough. One of the pieces formed a bond with Bierce's soul. She used that to seal herself into that annoying little pocket dimension. As if that cage could keep me out forever. In this place, having your power and ring pieces stolen by mortals is not a good look. You both made me look weak & vulnerable. That's bad for business. Now it's time to pay the price. That's enough chit chat. She's ready now. Let's get this execution started, shall we?
[*A large teddy bear exits out of the cabin; Mama Bear*]

**Mama Bear**: I'm here. How sweet. You brought a new companion for my babies to play with?
**Malak**: Yes, I have. Do they enjoy playing with mortals?
**Mama Bear**: Oh yes. They'll be very excited. This one looks a bit weak though. Not very lively. they usually last longer if they have a little fight left in them.
**Malak**: Lucky and his gang got a little carried away.
**Mama Bear**: Not that it matters, dear Malak. My babies always leave very little behind regardless.
**Malak**: (sigh) I've told you not to call me that. You know I hate it.
**Mama Bear**: But I like it. This mortal soul will be a bit harder to destroy. His time is not up yet.
**Malak**: I assume you can handle it. Take your time and make an example out of him.
**Mama Bear**: As you command, dear Malak. Gather him up, my babies, and bring him inside.
[*The Trigger Teddies grab Doug*]

**Doug**: No! Let go of me!
**Mama Bear**: Put the mortal in the kitchen for now.
**Malak**: I have an urgent matter to attend to. Are the ring pieces secure here for now?
**Mama Bear**: Of course, dear Malak. They are quite safe here.
**Malak**: [*To Doug*] Any last words?
[*The Trigger Teddies carry Doug inside the cabin*]

INT. MAMA BEAR'S HOUSE

[*Doug is carried into the kitchen. Any Trigger Teddy seeing Doug start following him. As he's placed down, the Trigger Teddies look over at Doug, but are then distracted by a sudden blue orb of light*]

**???**: No... It's not time yet. I will help you. Escape.
[*The blue orb shocks the Trigger Teddies, decommissioning them. Doug follows the orb*]

[*Doug tries entering a room with sleeping Trigger Teddies*]

**???**: Go back!
[*Doug gets by a hallways of sleeping Trigger Teddies and into the attic*]

**???**: There is a ring piece closeby, this way. It's here somewhere. Find it.
[*Doug grabs the ring piece. Via a hole in the attic, he sees Mama Bear*]

**Malak (O.S)**: What now? What happened?
**Mama Bear**: It seems he escaped.
**Malak (O.S)**: How is that possible?!
**Mama Bear**: Without the ring pieces, he won't get far. My babies will find him.
**Malak (O.S)**: This mortal has an infuriating talent for finding ring pieces. Now that he's loose, he will try to find them again. What are you going to do about it?!
**Mama Bear**: The ring pieces are well-hidden. He'll never find them.
**Malak (O.S)**: Tell me: Did you put one of the ring pieces in your attic?
**Mama Bear**: Yes, one of them is in the attic. How did you know?
**Malak (O.S)**: Because he's already there, and he's watching us!
**Mama Bear**: I guess I'll deal with him now then.
**Malak (O.S)**: Good. See that you do. Do not fail me. I want his soul torn apart and presented to me as a trophy on my desk!
**Mama Bear**: Thank you, dear Malak. Leave everything to me. Babies, go and greet our guest.
**Malak**: [*In Doug's head*] Did you forget that now I see what you see? I might be away, but I'm still in your head, mortal. You can't hide from me. He's over here!
[*Doug uses invisibility to get by the Trigger Teddies*]

**Malak**: Aw, what a cute teddy bear. Why not give it a hug? It's quite fluffy...
[*Doug enters the first zone*]

**Malak**: You're a dead man.
[*Doug finishes zone 1 and tries to exit via Mama Bear's bedroom. Mama Bear's head jumpscares and closes the exit door*]

**Mama Bear**: Mama Bear is coming to get you.~
[*Despite that jumpscare, nothing happens and Doug continues. The stairs downstairs opens*]

**???**: It's open now. Don't worry, he doesn't know I'm here.
**Malak**: Ooh, in the basement now, are we? Well don't let me stop you. By all means, keep going, nothing scary about that hole. Go on, step inside and see where it leads.
INT. THE TUNNELS

**Malak**: So many tunnels. Don't get lost.
[*Doug process into the linear tunnel. Mama Bear bursts out of a closed wall*]

**Mama Bear**: He's in the tunnels. Why the rush? Please, stay for dinner.
**Malak**: No, stop him! You can't run forever, mortal!
[*Doug gets another ring piece; stun*]

**Malak**: You won't have that much luck <unintelligeble> There's no way out.
[*Doug breaks through some boards, caving in a wall between him and the bears*]

**Malak**: Your luck is unbelievable. [*Comments on the hub*] That looks pretty deep. Imagine if you fell in... Why not throw yourself into the pit and get it over with?
[*Doug enters Zone 2*]

**Mama Bear**: Don't let him find the other ring pieces.
**Malak:** I wonder what would happen if those got a hold of you, hmm??

**Malak**: [*Progress*] What? You collected half the shards? How are you still alive?
**Malak**: [*Progress*] Got all the shards, eh? Don't get cocky. There's still no way out, mortal.
[*Doug exits Zone 2, and heads down some ladders. There, he encounters a room with several small pits of acid*]

**Mama Bear**: Now I've got you. Mama's coming!
[*Mama's first boss ensues. After beating her...*]

**Malak**: You simply refuse to die! It's extremely irritating! But I always think fast, so I'm going to make you an offer. If, somehow, despite my best efforts to kill you, you still manage to survive and complete the ring, it would be in your best interest to just hand it over to me anyway. Why? Because I'll match and exceed Bierce's offer! I'll let you go and I'll give you that new life you want so badly. I'll even make you young and rich with your wife and daughter exactly as you wish they could be! Everything you ever wanted for as long as you live. After that, your soul is mine. A small price to pay, given your circumstances. It's a better deal than you'll get from her, I promise you that. Think about it, if you survive...
[*After zone 3, Doug progresses further down*]

**Malak**: Are you sure you want to go that way?
[*Doug jumps down a pit*]

**Malak**: Bad choice, mortal...
**???**: [*Appears*] There's a ring piece close by. Before I go, with these ring pieces, I can break his hold on you.
[*As promised, Malak's mark breaks*]

**Malak**: What? How unexpected. It seems the ring's power is dissolving my marking. Well, it was amusing, but I guess our time together is up. Don't worry, I'll be by to collect your corpse later. You'll never escape this place.
[*Doug proceeds into a ring arena with an acid pit in the middle. Mama Bear jumps into the pit and emerges, looking more monstrous*]

**Mama Bear**: Looking for this? [*Reveals ring piece*] You've caused enough trouble. I can't let you go any further. You've wrecked my happy home and destroyed many of my precious babies. You will undo everything. Like Bierce, you are an abomination. I can never let you return to her. This place will be your grave.
[*After boss fight*]

**Mama Bear**: Dear Malak, forgive me... [*Sinks into the pit*]
[*Escape*]

**Mama Bear**: I'll never let you go! Why do you hurt Mama?
EXT. BEARLY BURIED

**Doug**: Bierce! Open the portal!
[*The cabin's door opens. Mama Bear*]

**Mama Bear**: Mama Bear's coming to get you.~
**Doug**: BIERCE!!!
**???**: It's open! Escape!
[*Doug escapes*]

* I just want to share my love with you.
* Is this how you treat your mother?
* Make yourself at home.
* So un*bear*able.
* Such a naughty boy...
 Spotted
* Mama Bear is coming to get you.~
* My babies are very hungry.
 Chasing
* Find him.
* Kill him.
* Mama Bear's coming to get you.
* You hurt my babies!

**Malak**: [*Anytime you use a power*] Those are my powers!
**Malak**: [*Just randomly*] You're boring me.
**Malak**: [*Just randomly*] I'm surrounded by incompetence!
**Malak**: [*Just randomly*] Die!
**Malak**: [*Just randomly*] Why won't you just die?!
**Malak**: [*Just randomly*] Sigh... this is depressing...
**Malak**: [*Just randomly*] Mama Bear, do your job!
**Malak**: [*Just randomly*] Incompetent.
**Malak**: [*Just randomly*] What? No, Agatha, you can't also look. Stop annoying me, I'm busy.
**Malak**: [*Unused*] Are you lost? Go find Mama Bear, she can help you.
[*Dying*]

**Malak**: Shredded by a teddy bear? That's so, pathetic.
**Malak**: What? You don't like bear hugs?
**Malak**: It's all fun and games until Mama Bear eats your face. Then, it's hilarious!
**Malak**: Is that really the best you can do?
**Malak**: Aww, so close, yet so... dead.
**Malak**: [*Laughs*] You should pay more attention to your surroundings, mortal.
**Malak**: Watching you die was worth the wait.
INT BIERCE'S BALLROOM

**Bierce**: You're alive! Wait...how are you alive? I thought Malak had taken you for good. And the ring pieces! You got them back! Oh, I could kiss you! Not that I'm going to. Don't get your hopes up. Also, don't worry about me. I'm fine. I'm not flesh & blood, remember? No matter what torment Malak inflicts on me, I will heal. He cannot destroy me. He can only enslave me for all eternity. Hmm. I can see it in your eyes that he told you something. Was it about me? Malak told you what I did, didn't he? That I'm trapped here. That I cheated him. Well, so what? He's a demon. I'm not proud of what I did, but I lived in an era that was full of cruelty and I was consumed with my desire for stardom in order to escape it. That desire led me down a dark path. Surely you can understand that, right? Malak wants our souls. I just want to get out of here. And I meant what I said when I told you I'd give you a new life. I will have that power. You've seen what I can do with just a few of the ring pieces. Just two more pieces of the ring, and we both get what we want. Glad to have you back.
#### Secret notes

[*Mom's note 1*]
> February 11th, 1960
>
>

> Happy Birthday my little Dougie! Five years old! You're getting so big! Do you know how much I love you? I'm so sorry that I can't be there to spend time with you today. Things are hard right now, so Mommy has to work. Don't feel sad though! Today is your Birthday and Mommy left you a surprise! Look downstairs in the kitchen. I brought you a new friend! He'll keep you company whenever I'm not around.
>
>

> I'll see you when I get home, sweetheart. Always remember that I love you!
>
>

> Love you forever & ever!
>
>

> -Mom
>
>

[*Mom's note 2*]
> March 4th, 1963
>
>

> Dougie is 8 now. I shouldn't hate him, but I can't help it. Everyday he looks more & more like his father. He acts & sounds more and more like him too. He used to be so sweet & cute. Now when I look at him all I see is that miserable bastard's face. It makes me feel sick to my stomach that I'm raising him by myself, while he's out there enjoying his life with some tramp somewhere. Life is never fair.
>
>

> The other day, he dropped one of the glasses in the kitchen. Such a simple thing, but it instantly filled me with an uncontrollable, rage. I locked him in a closet as punishment - mainly so that I wouldn't beat him. He begged me to let him out and said that the dark scared him. The other mothers would be shocked to hear me say it, but I enjoyed hearing him beg. I left him in there for hours. He eventually stopped crying. Maybe I never had any maternal instincts to begin with? That thought doesn't bother me so much anymore though.
>
>

> Now all I can think, everyday, is that I should have listened to my mother. When he was born, she told me to give him up and I didn't listen. She told me not to marry his father and I didn't listen to that either. I should have listened. I was such a foolish girl. There are so many things I could have done. So many dreams I might have fulfilled. Now I'm trapped and time just keeps going by faster and faster.
>
>

> When I look at myself in the mirror, I can see my age starting to set in. I'm not as young as I once was and raising him is wasting what little youth I have left. I spend every moment either working to provide for him or taking care of him. It never ends! I feel like I can't breathe. I also can't abandon him even if I wanted to. It's against the law after all. Not to mention that once word got around, I'd be a pariah in the community. They'd all judge me and cast me out! Of course, nobody judged him for leaving. No, not him. He's a man. His buddies probably gave him high fives and cheap cigars to celebrate. Meanwhile, I'm stuck here with his brat.
>
>

> Being a single mother is hard. For now, all I can do is make him suffer every now and then. He can suffer as I have suffered.
>
>

[*Elise's note*]
> October 10th, 1981
>
>

> We've been married for almost two years, but I've yet to meet Doug's mother. She wasn't at our wedding and she's never come to visit - not even for the birth of our daughter, Tammy. Recently, Doug finally landed a job at a famous law firm in Manhattan. He didn't even tell her about it. I don't think Doug would allow her to visit even if she tried. It makes me a bit sad (and angry) that he won't talk to me about her. Does he not trust me? Is he keeping secrets from me? He won't even talk about his mom around me, which is extremely strange. You'd barely even know that he has a mother the way he avoids mentioning her. My first thought was that he has some buried mommy issues to deal with. That made me extremely curious, so I did a little digging. I was able to find some information about her from Doug's private medical records. Apparently, she lives near a large horse farm in central Pennsylvania. I might go see her. Honestly, what kind of a man doesn't introduce his wife to his own mother? What is he so afraid of? Maybe there's something about him that she knows that he doesn't want me to know? I lost control of my emotions a few times and we've had a few big fights. He's been acting differently since Tammy was born.
>
>

> I need to know...
>
>

[*E's note*]
> My arm is burning from the last jump, but my other wounds are fully healed. I can move reasonably well again. Whatever the demon did to my head has awoken some memories. I'm having glimpses of what I think is my past. Images with no immediate meaning flash in my head. A handsome man, some lively friends, walking along a beach, a child, and a bridge. I can't put them together yet, but I feel it's just a matter of time if I can stay alive. I'm in some sort of cavern system now. The darkness here is overwhelming. So many voices are speaking to me all at once. So many souls have perished here. I'm struggling to block out their screams. This place is some sort of feeding ground. No....that's not right. It's an execution site. A place where the demon makes his unwelcome guests disappear. It's full of twisted teddy bears and their mama bear. She's very powerful and I can tell that she runs this place. The Mama Bear is born from the twisted love of abusive mothers. They sabotaged & destroyed the lives of their children. She is a massive collection of that soul type. I wonder if she can even be killed? For some reason, her presence pains me deeply and I feel an immediate attraction to her when she gets close. I've caught myself a couple of times walking in her direction, almost in a trance. The subconscious attraction frightens me more than the creatures I've encountered. I have to keep my distance. If my soul is drawn to her, then it raises some frightening questions. No, I refuse to think about that. I need to give my memories time to return. I will make sure that there's nothing of value here and then I will move on. I'm not sure how far I'll be able to search. The cavern system is vast and Mama Bear and her "babies" are everywhere. The demon is still searching for me as well.
>
>

-E
#### Death Tips

* Watch out for bear traps! They can be hard to spot in the shadows.
* Trigger Teddies are bombs. Don't let them get close to you.
* Curiosity killed the cat. Avoid rooms filled with Trigger Teddies.
* Mama Bear is faster than she looks. She will sprint if she gets too close.
* Remember that Trigger Teddies are bombs. Use them to damage Mama Bear when she is out of the pool.
* Mama Bear's blood lust messes with the vision of her prey when she gets close.
* Mama Bear is invincible when she is in her spiked ball form. Use speed boost and teleport to stay out of her reach.
* Hit Mama Bear with one of the boulders once she pops up.

## Miscellaneous

### Dying to a trap/any monster

**Bierce**: Look out! A trap! [*Gasp*] Oops. Too late.
**Bierce**: Now, that deserves a facepalm.
**Bierce**: Oh, come on! You walked right into that one!
**Bierce**: Ooh, didn't see that one coming did ya?
**Bierce**: The idea is to avoid the traps, love. I thought we've been over that!
**Bierce**: Watch your step, love!
**Bierce**: You seem to really enjoy pain, don't you?
### Game Over

**Bierce**: You are dead. [*Laughs*]
**Malak**: Watching you die was worth the wait.
### Straying

**Bierce**: Where are you going? There aren't any soul shards here.
**Bierce**: You're not getting out of here until you've gathered all the soul shards. You get that, right?
**Bierce**: Are you lost? Go find the soul shards!
**Bierce**: You need to find those soul shards before something bad finds you!
**Bierce**: The soul shards aren't going to gather themselves, you know. Keep looking!
**Bierce**: Can't find any soul shards? Listen for the screams. Tiny, tiny screams.
**Bierce**: Can't find more Soul Shards? Why don't you ask the monster? Maybe it's seen some!
**Bierce**: Something's missing here... hmm, what could it be? Oh, I know! No shards!
### Discovering secrets

**Bierce**: Congratulations. That must've been hard to find.
**Bierce**: I don't remember this being here...
**Bierce**: You found a secret!
**Bierce**: Good for you. I hope you choke on it.
### Bierce's Diary

[*Monkey Business' Diary*]

**Bierce**: Those idiots at RKO wouldn't even give me a screen test. Selznick looked me in the eye and said he already had a dozen girls like me, wondered why I wanted to be a movie star when I had a rich husband to take care of me. I told him that was the whole point of marrying the fat pig in the first place. Edgar is having another one of his degenerate parties tonight. I caught him in the bedroom laying out his black robe and that ridiculous goat mask he got from the prop department, he and his friends like to pretend they're such devils, dressing up and spouting Mumbo Jumbo out in the garden at midnight. Every so often they pay one of the call girls a little extra to be their sacrifice. I'd tell them or what fools they are but half of them work for the studios and the rest are some of the most powerful men in the city. If Edgar can't make me a star, maybe one of them will.
[*Elementary Evil's Diary*]

**Bierce**: There was someone new at the party last night, a dark handsome man with a strange accent. I took him for a European, maybe one of Lagasse's Hungarian friends, he didn't seem all that interested in the festivities, didn't drink, or even take much notice of the girls. When the robes came out and the Warlocks headed out into the garden he seemed more amused than anything else. Somehow, we ended up out on the veranda, sharing a smoke and listening to the drunken chants echo across the hills. I finally learned his name, Victor. At some point in the conversation. I asked him what he thought about black magic. I suppose I was trying to shock him, or maybe it was just the gin talking. He said that people took such things seriously where he came from, there were all sorts of stories about those who sold their soul in exchange for wealth, power and fame. I laughed in his face, told him I didn't believe a word. He said he didn't matter what I believed only what I wanted, and what I was willing to do in order to get it.
[*Deadly Decadence's Diary*]

**Bierce**: I had my first screen test today, MGM called out of the blue and asked me to come read for a part opposite James Cagney. I barely remember how it went, I think I stumbled over most of my lines, but no one cared. They loved me. Every single person on that lot hung on my every word. It all happened just as Victor said it would. I've learnt so much over the last few months. I didn't want to believe at first, but Victor has shown me time and again. At every moment of every day, we are surrounded by hidden forces beyond our darkest dreams. They watch, and they listen, and if we call to them with the proper words at the proper times, they will respond. And if we give them the gifts they crave, they offer gifts in return. Victor has shown me the ritual, I know all the words by heart. All we need is a sacrifice. None of Edgar's tramps will do, but the maid has a daughter that might do nicely.
[*Stranger Sewer's Diary*]

**Bierce**: The feel of the knife in my hand, the words of the ritual echoing across the ballroom, the crash of thunder and the screams of the sacrifice. It's been a month, but every detail is still etched in my mind, as though it happened only last night. I called, and Malak answered. He listened to my plea and tried to bargain with me as Victor said he would. There I was, knife in hand, dickering with a demon while a girl's blood soaked into my slippers. Finally, we came to an arrangement. Seven years, and a day. After that, my soul was forfeit. I told him he was welcome to it. The phone hasn't stopped ringing since. Every studio wants me. I've entertained movie stars, politicians, and industrialists. Edgar doesn't know what to make of it, and I don't much care. I've got what I want. I don't need him anymore. Victor has disappeared. The day after the ritual, he emptied out his apartment and left. No one knows where he's gone.
[*Crazy Carnevil's Dairy*]

**Bierce**: Selznick wants me in his next picture, saying he'll give me anything. I told him I won't get out of bed for less than five million, and if he wants me on set, he'll get Bogart to star with me. I didn't care if he was under contract with MGM or not. The little toad turned such a lovely shade of purple. He'll give me what I want though, they always do. Edgar finally died last night. It took six long months and I don't know how much arsenic. Rat poison would've been quicker, but the police might've noticed. I'm always tempted to let them arrest me anyway, just to see what would happen. I'd have judge and jury eating out of my hand before the day was out. The reporters would have a field day. Finally, a breakthrough in a search. There are rumors of a ring called the Riddle of Heaven, somewhere in China or possibly Tibet. It could be the answer I've been looking for. All I have to do - is find it. Edgar's considerable fortune should help.
[*Torment Therapy's Diary*]

**Bierce**: I dread the sound of the clocks striking the hour. I leap from my chair at the sound of ever car passing on the street outside. How long does it take to carry a package from the port of Los Angeles to here? It's intolerable! I thought seven years in the day were more than enough. Now I only have a few hours left. Is this what a condemned man feels like? Oh surely not. I have everything I need laid out and ready to go, all except for the ring. I should have had it months ago, but it's been one delay after another. It's enough to make me think that Malak's hand is in this. The clock chimes; another car. Yes, it's here! I'll cheat you yet, you devil.
[*Mascot Mayhem's Diary*]

**Bierce**: Where is this place? I was so tired. The ritual took more out of me than I thought. But how did I end up here in the ballroom? At least, this looks like my ballroom? I've yelled for the maid; called her every name in the book, but she doesn't answer. I can't find the ring either. I've got to find it. There are a number of doors in the ballroom that I don't remember seeing before. I'm going to try them to see where they lead.
[*Bearly Buried's Diary*]

**Bierce**: You think you have the last laugh, Malak? I'll show you! You'll not drag me to hell without a fight! I must've died, and now he's trapped me here in this, purgatorial nightmare. If this isn't hell, it's at close as I ever intend to come. We seem to be at a stale mate; Malak can't get at my soul, and he has taken steps to ensure that I can't get to my ring. The pieces are scattered throughout this prison; held behind fields of magical force. I've tried a dozen times to get at the ring pieces, but Malak has them guarded. First, it was giant spiders, then rats, then Edgar wearing nothing but a diaper and his goat mask. The demon knows my deepest fears and is using them against me.
[*Unknown's Diary (in the game files)*]

**Bierce**: A woman came to visit me. She appeared out of thin air right in the middle of the ballroom. She took one look at me and knew who I was, said she knew all about "The Legend". The Legend? The little fool claimed she'd found my ring at a pawn shop in Studio City. A pawn shop! She said she'd unlocked the secret and it had summoned me. And then she said she wanted to make a deal; she wanted to be a star. I sent her through one of the doors, told her that if she could bring me the pieces of my ring I'd make her wishes come true. Whatever was on the other side tore her apart in two seconds flat. All that's left of her are shards of her soul scattered throughout the halls. Stupid cow. I knew she didn't stand a chance, but that was the closest thing to entertainment I've had in a long, long time.
## Reference

1. ↑ https://dark-deception-game.fandom.com/wiki/Soul\_Shards
2. ↑ Subtitles incorrectly writes down "What".