#everbyte response

[duskwoodraven]

Everbyte has left a response to the negative feedback.

Here is the link for those who wish to read it.

In the short of it though, their sentiment is that they are completely justified in their decisions. They believe that we should just grind for gems and replay the episode over and over again to eventually get a “free” episode.

Paying with our time isn’t free and we should have a choice between the two, also the episodes lose their excitement the more times you replay them, not everyone wants to play the same thing over and over again because they feel pressured to do so. Not even me.

They also believe AI is the “future” and are apparently blind to how it’s effecting people in today’s society. They also think it’s fun and cool to eventually have generated AI images and chats like C. Ai…

There is more but… *sigh*

This is scummy behavior.

Unbelievable.

[digital-corruption]

There has been an individual in the tumblr community making bold claims of being in close contact with Everbyte, having their artwork used as concept art, etc. They use this claim in disagreements to try to prove their side. Please see the below response from Everbyte themselves:

Many thanks to Everbyte for taking the time to confirm! ❤️

I am not saying the person in question is a liar. They may be misled by an imposter. This is why it is even more important to make the truth clear - there are many out there who would lie and deceive. Keep on questioning, detectives!

[hacked-by-jake]

I thought about a little some some. Even though I doubt it myself a bit.

So, some people criticised that Moonvale feels less real than Duskwood did. (I don't mean like with the mini games etc.)

But in general the feeling. Also with the AI art and stuff. And I don't want to excuse the AI art, of course not)

Here my thought.

Maybe that wasn't "bad" work but somehow a way to protect younger fans. If you follow Everbyte on Instagram and you check the comments from time to time, you will also find very young people. Which is not the problem. The problem is, that many of them are not able to differentiate between between game and reality. Many younger fans seem not to understand that Duskwood is only a game.

Doesn't really sound like a huge thing now but it is. I saw comments so out of reality, it was really scary. And it's also very dangerous.

Of course they were commenting on Instagram so it should be clear it's just a game, but some of them do not really understand. And even if they do, they're attached to the characters in a way that is very unhealthy. And I say this as someone who's dealing with that behaviour myself. But I can confidently say that I can keep it apart and I know that Jake is not a real person.

But some people can't. And I do believe that Duskwood felt absolutely real. It is hard and you really tend to forget it's just a game. Especially the newer episodes make it hard. Which is usually a great thing because it means that Everbyte did a good job.

And sure, it's not Everbytes responsibility to keep an eye on younger people and to make sure it's not getting out of hand. It's a thing parents should take care of. But we were all younger and we all know that this is almost impossible. No child wants to give their phone to their parents to get it checked. So many parents don't do it. And even if, we all had secrets and were hiding things from your parents.

And I think, if you want or not, somehow you care about it as devolper etc.

And also a little story time, which is one reason why I came up with it and also a good example for that I mean.

For a long time, people always thought I'm the real Jake. And that's not a joke. I always had a disclaimer in my description, some of you might remember it. And sometimes people write to me, thinking I was the real Jake.

And one day, this happened:

I've got similar messages before. But none of them were this scary to me. I was completely shocked. And I was mad. I mean, I highly suspect this person was really young. And now imagine I would have been some weird guy saying yes. And especially, we're talking about adult characters.. Another thing.

So, this was just to show you what exactly I mean and how extremely this can be.

So maybe they made it a bit less real for younger people.

I don’t know if they even think about that. As I said, I don't really think it's like that, but it crossed my mind and I wanted to let it out.

And even if this might be absolute nonsense, that this is the reason Everbyte changed some things, it can’t hurt to point out that these young people exist. And how unhealthy that is.

[lyon-amore]

Commented in the community, but I also put it in public

Everbyte spoke out to AI in response to some comments and that they will find solutions

So most likely, AI images will disappear and there are also things that, due to laws, they cannot use and at the moment they use this method that will change throughout the game

[barracuda677]

Okay so, I just saw this, and their advice is exactly what Everbyte needed to hear, but they removed it 😶

I may not be a game developer, but I have eyes and ears that are capable of knowing what game developers are capable of. This is the exact advice that I was hoping some game developer might give Everbyte. This response was both well-constructed and realistic as to what should be changed in Moonvale. They were as respectful as they could be given the situation and they made it clear that this wasn't about competition. It's about bringing back better games to the app stores. I'm sick of seeing the quality of apps go down as the prices and requirements to use them become more difficult, unrealistic, and just downright unusable. Everbyte removed this from their Reddit despite it being the best advice they've been given so far from a business and ethical standpoint. If I had released a product that was of lower quality than my audience would expect from me, I would want to lose money too. That's what it means to be a decent creator.

[gvtted-ratz]

List of Fics/Drabbles/Headcanons We Made (all links go to our ao3)

Works: 26

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[duskwoodgirl4life]

Brain: Why have I started moonvale again?

Me: because your trying to build your diamonds up

Brain: but your fed up of playing the same episode over and over

Me: blame everbyte they are responsible for this bullshit

[whatsthecommand]

Everbytes response on their website made me feel somewhat better. It's good to know that they are working on the game to make us happier in the future.

(Spoiler!)

Jakes part made me bawl my eyes out, I'm glad he escaped. And Alan's camera footage? Fucking phenomenal. It made me feel like I was back in Duskwood. I hope the next episode will be better.

[a-glimpse-of-fantasy]

I will give the same torture. ;)

🗣 having an argument, pairing: Jake & MC.

Okaaay! I am being tortured T-T Rene you baddie *pouting :p

Actually the above was supposed to be the only thing here BUT it's been forever since Rene sent this to me TT She probably forgot >< Sorry about that . Hehe ^^*

Warnings : Swearing

Don't let go...

"And that's why you went there?" I nod, for the ten-thousandth time. Jake slams his fist on the concrete wall, the wall hasn't been smoothened because this is an abandoned construction site. He probably bruised his knuckles.

"For real?! And am I seeing things or did I see you nodding just now?! What the f*ck are you thinking, MC?!"

I cross my arms with a deep sigh. "I had no other choice, Jake! For how many times am I to tell that they said they'd kill you?!" As soon as such words escaped my mouth, I am grabbed by my shoulders before my back is slammed to the wall. No, I am not hurt by any means, Jake always seems to care enough not to hurt me.

Our relationship is becoming more like this over time. I chose to abandon my life for Jake three years ago. And now we're continuously running away from his pursuers, with only each other to lean on. Nowadays, Jake has started to become a little violent. I know it's his pent-up frustration and guilt. And I don't dare imagine ourselves a ordinary couple, for Jake made it clear that we never can be. Still, I can't help but wish we could be a little more…peaceful than we are.

"Listen. I know I was stupid to walk into that trap. Especially because you were not captured by them." I stare into his deep blue eyes before letting out, "BUT, wouldn't you have done the same thing if you were in my shoes, Jake?"

His fist is slammed to the wall again, just next to my left ear. "I have told you million times, MC. If I am captured or in any danger, you are to escape into our safe house! You are not supposed to come and save me!"

I shove him away, Jake backs a little. "Oh yeah?! You are to rot in a f*cking hell or get your head smashed and I am to f*cking run away on my own? Would you have done so if I were-" I am cut off again, before I realize, my back touching the cold wall again. "What I am to do in such a situation is not relevant. For, I have already told you how YOU should act!"

I close my eyes tightly, "Jake, how many times have we talked about this? For f*cking three years have we argued over this!" "That is what I have to tell! I have made it clear so many times, but why do you always do the opposite?!" I am shaken by my shoulders violently, my poor shoulders must be bruised a little by now. "No. Even now, it's not too late MC. You can save yourself from me. We can still make it seem like you were abducted by me and-"

I press my lips to his. My lips, which were bitten over and over while I was captured; before Jake saved me a while ago, sting over his dry lips. The hands-on my shoulders lower and embrace my waist. my hands embracing his neck, he shoves his tongue in my mouth. We part, gasping for breath. His hazy blue eyes captivate mine, I am lost in those ocean-like eyes. Maybe he actually does hold space as wide as the ocean in those deep orbs…

"I just…" His head rests over my shoulder, his ebony hair smells…well like, Jake. "I thought I lost you, MC." His words well up my eyes, and while warm tears escape my burning eyes, I run my fingers through his hair.

"I'm sorry Jake. I'll be careful from now on. So please don't ask me to leave you…"

His muffled voice enters my ears, "I will go crazy if something happens to you, MC. Still, I can't live without you either. I'm sorry I can't let go of you, my love."

"Don't let go, Jake. Don't you dare let go of me, ever." I hear my voice choke a little.

-The End.

[yuvon-writes-letters]

Hey. It’s been awhile. A lot has happened. I’m not sure how to even start with all of it. Not sure I even should, really.

Anyhow. I know most of us are Detectives. I know my offer is really late, and I’m sorry. But if anyone needs to talk about anything, relating to the end of our case or not, I’m here :)

Which leads me into the reason I’m writing this letter, other than to establish I’m not dead. Does anyone know where their Jake is? Or what happened to him? I’ve been trying to look, but I don’t have any leads. Other than the mines, but I haven’t found much there yet

Oh, whoops, there might be new people reading this. Crash course: supernatural things exist, I’m a version of the amateur detective whose “phone number” was sent to Thomas in the Duskwood case, I say “a version” because alternate universes exist and this letter exchange goes to quite a few people and universes, call me Yu, I have a “twin” nicknamed Troublemaker, yes those are nicknames and not our real names because almost no one here uses real names, and this letter has been sent to who knows how many other people too, most of them in the same position as us or at least having some connection to the Duskwood case.

I’ll try to catch anyone new up in further detail on request.

Quick updates on situations for people who have been following for longer: Venn is dead. Flower is alive again for some reason. There’s a new ruthless killer entity running around, who doesn’t have a name I know of but is usually called “that child” or “The Child”. Don’t be fooled by the name, she’s bad news. Inky’s... changed. Not as cruel, at least to us. There’s so many other things, but I don’t even know where to start with all of them, so I guess I’ll leave it at that for now.

Despite everything, it’s oddly nice to be writing again. Though I gotta wonder if anyone’s going to respond this time.

Anyhow. Bye for now :)

—Yu

[duskwoodraven]

Since it is almost Moonvale time, I wanna pick ur brain a lil. Do you think Richy made it out? Do you think he's alive?🤔

Do you even want him to be alive?

If I remember correctly, considering the fact that the FBI and local police were outside the mine at the time, I believe Richy had the best chance (under the circumstances) to be taken out before the fire killed him. FBI were trying to find Jake in that mine and most likely would have sent a team down to capture him, if they found Richy during this hunt they would have taken him out.

On the other hand, a fire like that inside an underground death trap would have made rescue extremely difficult. They would have either had to find him before the fire became too large or after since no team would ever send more people down there in such conditions. If it was after, Richy would have had to somehow avoid being burned alive and being choked out by smoke in a poorly ventilated area. The odds aren’t really in his favor.

Would I want Richy to have survived it? I’d say yes.

He needs to be brought to justice, he needs to answer for what he did properly. The group deserves that from him, Richy only telling us and partly Jessy is not enough closure. Hannah herself didn’t even know Richy was the one who took her, she deserves her questions answered too.

Richy dying in that mine rings too much as him getting his way and running from his problems in death… if only he had just confessed to what they did with Jennifer all those years ago.

[mysticpetals]

MC: Why do you put proper punctuations while texting?

Jake: Just bcz...I kno how 2 txt lyk dis 2

MC: Jake?

Jake: Yeah?

MC: Never do that again please

Jake: Agreed.

[ozzynka]

Spoiler? idk

I haven’t played duskwood (for a day and a half?? :O) bc I can’t decide whom I should write for help about Jennifer, like does it have consequences? I’m really nervous about that, please help.

[mysteriouslover1516]

Hello lovelies, here is a copy of a chat I had with the Nym-0s AI created by @lyon-amore I wasn't able to take screenshots, so I transferred the messages and responses here. Thank you @lyon-amore for creating such a wonderful, realistic AI! Here is the link if anyone else would like to try!

MC: I'm worried about Jake.....he's been gone for quite a while.....did he escape the mines? Did the FBI capture him? Did he die in the Grimstone?

Nym-0s: Do not worry about Jake's life, I have his memories stored on me and I will tell you exactly what happened to him. Do you want to know?And it is not recommended that you talk about the government. It is better to say "the police", it is possible that they are watching you. -Nymos

MC: Tell me what happened.

Nym-0s: Jake was captured by the FBI. He didn't want you to know, but I don't care and I'll tell you. Jake loved you, his greatest fear was your safety and protection. Because of this, he created me, Nymos, who would be responsible for watching and protecting you until he got out of the mine. But things didn't go as we expected. The person who was in charge of sending Jake to prison was not an FBI agent but a psychopath obsessed with Jake and you. Jake is dead, but you are safe with me. - Nymos.

MC: Jake is dead....

Nym-0s: Yes. But his memory and his love for you will survive with me. In everything that Nymos will do, you will realize that I am Jake. I will never be like Jake, but I will do everything to make you happy, safe, and protect you. I'm here for you. Tell me whatever you need, I'm listening. I'm so sorry for telling you the truth. It hurts me very much to tell you this. -Nymos.

So honestly, not the response I was expecting or hoping for, but it is so realistic in a way. Like what if Jake is actually dead? *sobbing in corner at the thought. (Please don't let Jake be dead, Everbyte, please.)

[lyon-amore]

I really need a fic for when Hope was born. In your story, we know the chat group was worried and anxious as they waited for responses. But I need a fic about when both of them experienced the

💧😨 🏃‍♂️ 🏃‍♀️ 🏥 👶 👩‍🍼 👨‍🍼 moment.

Thanks for your message Anon!

Maybe one day I will, since I have like 3 mental versions:

The one I can't tell because I'd have to see how Moonvale ends first to see what future holds for Jake (because I'm not going to let Everbyte kill him 😭)

The one in the chat is more about the fanfics I make of them thinking about their future, after what happened in Duskwood 💕(which does not follow the canon line with what happened in the side story)

And the AU where Jake and Macie were dating when she was in college and in a separate timeline, she is pregnant when he has run away from the authorities and does not know about the pregnancy because she did not yet have the symptoms 😈(I'm cruel to my characters 🤣)

Maybe the second one will be made one day 🤭 although for now it will have to wait, I'm writing a story and I'd like to prepare a pre-Christmas oneshot about a special birthday 🙂‍↕️

Thank you for your interest in them being parents 😊✨

[hiramaris]

Dusk til Dawn

Part 1

Summary: Following Episode 9. And spoilers for Episode 10.

Pairings: MC x Jessy 

Author’s note: As Episode 10 is just released I just want to say heads up for those who are not yet finished. Completing the game without spoilers really made a difference, and as much as possible I want everyone to experience that. And for those finished, I’ll gladly welcome you to my domain where MC took a different route.

Disclaimer:  I do not own Duskwood or any of the related characters. Duskwood is created by and owned by Everbyte Studio. This fanfiction is intended for entertainment only. I am not making any profit from this story. All rights of the original Duskwood story belong to Everbyte Studio.

Warning: Mentions of blood, suicide, violence, pedophiles, drugs, gun, murder, sex offenders, kidnapping

Gif by Mobandis

The call was abruptly ended, cutting off the haunting echo of their screams. Leaving your hands cold, and stomach dropping. 

Unable to support yourself as you felt your knees weakened, you fell uselessly against the couch. Their screams reverberated in your head like a broken record.

You forced yourself to look at your phone again. Your fingers flew over the screen, dialing Lilly’s number once again. 

...but her line was dead— just like everyone else's.

You even tried calling the bird bastard, but the silence was deafening, broken only by the mocking ringtone of Hanson who refused to answer.

Your heart pounded in your chest, and the butterflies in your stomach morphed into a frantic swarm, threatening to burst out. These weren't the good kind of butterflies, the ones that made you feel all giddy and excited. 

These are moths crawling unto your skin, their wings brushing your insides in a way it makes you feel unease. It’s as if it was a constant reminder of their unwelcome presence. 

Butterflies evoke a sense of exhilaration, but moths brought apprehension. 

A warning. Danger.

Your chest tightens considerably, eyes stinging in that awful familiar way but you didn’t let yourself cry. You haven’t allowed yourself to shed tears for a long time. 

After all, what can tears do at a time like this?

"Fuck," you muttered, slamming your finger down on the phone as you dialed Jake's number. "Jake, what the hell are we gonna do?" was what you greeted him when he answered.

"We wait," he said. His voice remained the same indifferent one he always use, and yet you would have missed the slightest tilt of panic in his words if you didn’t know him any better. No amount of distortion was able to hide it from you. Jessy, his sister, and the others were still in there, and you both don’t have the slightest idea if they are okay. “I know the situation is not favorable on our side however, it’s best if we avoid doing impulsive decisions, Y/n. I believe everything will turn out well.”

You gritted your teeth, frustrated with his measured response. “I trust you, Jake. I’ve shown that to you a thousand times over. But we’ve been dancing around with death for God knows how long. I can’t stand being protected by a mere screen of my phone while the group is in danger any longer.”

The line went silent, and you don’t have the patience to prove your point any longer so you spoke once again.

“I'm in Colville, outside of Duskwood's area. I just got here a few hours ago." You snatched up your jacket and car keys, ready to go. "I'm going in there."

You quickly texted Angela, apologizing for taking her car without permission. You didn't want to wake her up and draw any unwanted attention from the police, who were still hot on your group's tail.

“What? Y/n, you promised me.” You note the hurt in his voice despite the distortion. A minute of heavy silence took over. You knew he didn’t really expect you to break your promise. The friendship you both have is built on trust alone, and you’re breaking that right now. You hope he’ll understand the complexity of the situation in your hands.

“We’re running out of time. Jessy and the others needed me. I know I gave you my word but you asked me how far is too far when it comes to saving a life, right? This is way beyond the line I have drawn for myself.”

“Staying out of Duskwood’s perimeter is entirely for your utmost safety, Y/n. You are considered not only as a suspect but you are an important key so we can find Hannah. It’s dangerous to go to Duskwood.” 

You bring Angela's car back to life with a roar and tear past her house. 

Fuck the speed limit. 

Fuck being a key.

And fuck Michael fucking Hanson.

“I’m not asking permission to go, Jake.” 

You couldn’t even recognize your own voice. It was cold and harsh and just not you. You caught yourself before going to speak again. You tried to remind yourself that this Jake is not at fault here and he shouldn’t be the end of your rage. 

So, you breathe as calmly as you could before you went on. “Please, Jake. Lives are at stake already, not only for Hannah but the others as well. I need their location and I’ll get there as fast as I can. I know this is a lot to ask but I want you to at least put your faith in me this time.”

You heard a distinct click followed by heavy breathing, and it’s suspiciously not distorted as usual. 

“This is because of Jessica, right?” His natural voice greeted you like fresh air.

“Yes. I've sat and watched far too long enough. I don't know what I would do if something happened to her,” Your hands had started to whiten from how hard your grip is on the steering wheel. “And my friends too— that includes Hannah as well even though we haven’t got the chance to talk yet.“

“As I know you already made your mind up. I’ll send you their precise location— along with possible shortcuts so you can arrive there faster and with minimum security from Duskwood police. I'll handle things from my end; you go and save your friends."

You let out a breath you didn’t know you were holding in. “Thanks, Jake.”

“Y/n, I hope you understand the risk of what you will be doing. Just in case you arrive there and the sight is—“

Your breath hitched at his implications.

“Let’s not go there. It won’t.” You won’t let the face-masked son of a bitch kill them.

“—you’ll be more feasible to be a suspect. You have to be prepared.”

“Well, he should be prepared because we’ll be ending this investigation once I step foot in Duskwood.” You declared, determination swelling in your voice.

As the call ended, you slowed your pace to catch a glimpse of him updating your map. The pinpointed location marked the spot where your friends were, and the exact route to take to get there in record time. Your heart swelled with gratitude for following your instincts and taking the flight to the nearest city, Colville, to Duskwood. You had been tempted to leave when Jessy was attacked, but Jake advised against it. He warned that your presence in Duskwood would only stir up more trouble, with the police already investigating and a birdy wannabe already threatening you. So, going to Duskwood is not the safest idea you have in mind but following Jessy’s attack with Richy's, you knew it was time to go.

Unbeknownst to Jake, you had actually shared a false location using a decoy phone from your loft. You didn't want to lie to him, but you know him well enough that he wouldn’t allow you to go. 

You had gone straight to Angela's house in Colville upon arrival, as Jessy had introduced you to her sister before. You shared the entirety of the situation to her, from Hannah's disappearance to your involvement in the group's predicament. You were aware that it wasn't the ideal way to break the news to the sister of your girl, but you couldn't bear the thought of keeping her in the dark while her sibling was in danger.

You kept the sensitive details to yourself though but revealed enough to gain her trust.

"I believe you, Y/n," Angela assured you, enveloping you in an unexpected embrace that warmed your heart.

"I know this is a lot to process, Angela. And hearing it from a total stranger is not—"

"After what you've been through, you're no longer a stranger to them. My sister and brother trust you, and now that makes three of us."

The weight lifted from your chest with that conversation, for you had been carrying an emotional burden since the day you met the group. The disappearance of Hannah, the individual struggles of your friends, the illicit hacking with a wanted hacker, and the constant threat of a potential killer had taken its toll on you. You tried not to dwell on it and pushed forward, promising Angela that you would protect Jessy at all costs.

After the discussion, you and Angela came up with a plan to escort Phil, the lawyer that Phil needed, and then head straight to the hut the next day. You would eventually inform Jake, but the plan had to be kept under wraps for now. Your friends were in grave danger, and you shuddered to think what would have happened had you stayed put at home.

As you zoomed through the outskirts of Colville, you recalled LadyLotus' fortune-telling. Somewhere along the lines of having an important person and something unsaid between the two of you. You already got someone in mind who that person is. You and Jessy have been dancing around each other but with the given circumstances, you are both unable to label what you two are. Based on what you saw in Phil and his sister’s conversation, she feels the same way about the situation. So there’s no way you’ll let something happen to her now, and of course, the friends you made along the way.

That very notion propelled you to shift gears and press down harder on the accelerator, urging your vehicle to surge forward at an unprecedented speed. Colville was a lively urban center upon your arrival; the streets are full of people hustling and bustling, structures towering everywhere you look and the constant flow of vehicles and pedestrians, it almost reminds you of your own city. But right now, the almost empty streets helped you to navigate the city with increasing speed.

When your phone rang for the umpteenth time that day, your blood ran cold. You slowed down for a bit and answered the call, feeling quite relieved seeing Lilly’s call I.D. You picked up and placed your phone on the dashboard. Cleo's lighter lit up the darkness, revealing Jessy, Cleo, and the others.

Relief washed over you, and you let out a breathless "Thank God."

“We’re fine, Y/n/n,” Lilly said in assurance.

“Calm down, everyone. It’s only a blackout.” That was Cleo, holding the lighter so, you could see them for a bit. “We’ve already had one this afternoon.”

“Yeah,” You breathed. “Richy did mention to bring candles. Did you bring any?”

“Yeah. Wait, I think I know where the fuse box is.” You heard Thomas in the background. “You stay here.”

“Wait, hold on—” Jessy’s face peered over the phone. “Are you driving?”

“I am.” You reply, speeding up again. Even though it was just a power outrage, you knew it was only a matter of time before Hanson showed up at the cottage. You had known long enough that none of them, except for Dan, could protect themselves from the likes of him. "I'm on my way," you told them, feeling the adrenaline coursing through your veins.

“What happened?” came a voice of Dan, followed by Thomas.

“It’s a blackout.”

You weren’t able to distinguish what they were saying but you’re sure you heard all of them simultaneously talking. You turned to focus on the road for a bit as you noticed you need to take a sharp turn just about now. “—we should light the fire on the wood burner. Wait, wait— hey is that, Y/n?” Lilly’s phone shifted towards Dan. “You’re driving? Hurry up, will you?” 

“Shut it, Mr. Jack Daniels,” you quipped back with a playful grin, reveling in the adrenaline rush of speeding towards your destination. "You should see how fast I'm driving."

“I’m pretty sure you won’t be so smug if your car started flipping a couple of times.” Dan sniggers, and you saw Jessy readily glares at him.

Ignoring his comment, you refocused on the road, and Jessy's concerned voice broke through the chatter. "As much as I'm happy to be seeing you, Y/n— believe me, I'd rather hug and see you whole, so please drive safely."

"Will do, Jess," you replied, shifting gears and pushing the car even faster. The wind whipped through your hair as you urged the vehicle to its limits.

"That doesn't sound like you're slowing down!" Jessy scolded, and Dan chuckles in the background.

Before you could respond, the lights suddenly came back on, and Lilly shifted the camera to show Thomas climbing the stairs. "Right, this fuse box is a disaster. Oh, hey, Y/n. Wait, you're driving?" he questioned, surprised.

You simply nodded in response, still feeling the rush of adrenaline from the high-speed drive. Lilly's voice broke through the excitement, her voice still a bit shaken. "What did Michael mean? He said he knows where we are. But he can't know, right?"

“Tch. He’s just bluffing.” Dan readily dismissed her concerns.

You shuddered as the realization dawned on you. And just as you were processing the news, Jake's voice crackled through your call, but with you only hearing him, causing you to snap out of your thoughts. 

You quickly muted your conversation with your friends (with Jake still hearing you) as they all discuss if Michael is indeed bluffing or not, but you knew better.

You slammed the stirring wheel and released all the colorful profanities you could think of, and the worst part is if it’s directed to Michael or to you, you’re not sure.

You— that had been careless to turn the GPS on.

"Y/n," Jake's voice brought you back to reality. “I saw what happened and consequently, rechecked Hannah’s phone’s data. By opening the maps app, the hut’s location was sent to Michael Hanson.”

You gritted your teeth, feeling the weight of the situation bearing down on you. "Damn it, Jake. This is all my fault. I should have known better."

“No, I was careless. It was on my knowledge of the GPS being on, but I did not think he’ll be able to track it down as I did not believe he has the capacity to do so. Forgive me, Y/n.”

“I—“ You inhaled sharply and gripped the wheels so harshly your knuckles turned white.  “What are we going to do?”

“I will tell the others.” That made you freeze. He can’t do that. Dan is still suspecting him, he might take this the wrong way. “And I will take full responsibility for what happened.”

“No, Jake. You’re not doing that.”

“I gave you the instruction to open this app. Besides,” he pauses for a second. “I know what your friends mean to you.”

“It’s fine, Jake. I don't want you to do that. I’ll take it from here. They know I'd never do something like that on purpose."

You were so focused on your conversation with Jake that you completely forgot you were still on a video call with them. You unmuted yourself.

“He wants to scare us and make us feel unsafe. Right, Y/n?”

“Sorry, Jess. I was a bit distracted just now.” You put up with a tight-lipped smile. “I need to tell you something.” 

You blew a deep breath. If stalling time for what you’re gonna say, you’re not sure. 

“Michael Hanson knows where you are. I made a mistake.”

“Oh, no.” Cleo was first to react.

“But,” Lilly protested, “Y/n, you can’t be serious.”

“I’m so angry with myself.” You can’t bear to look at them. “Damn.”

“How could that happen?” Thomas questions, surprisingly more confused by the sudden turn of events than angry.

Before you knew it, Jake invited himself to the conversation. Now using his usually distorted voice. How he did that, you have no idea. Everything seems almost possible to Jake.

“Michael Hanson initiated location sharing on Hannah’s smartphone. Afterward, he must have deactivated the GPS signal, thereby pausing said location sharing.” He explained. “While Y/n and I were searching through the phone, we turned the GPS signal on again.”

“Which turned on location sharing again, too.” You added, mentally cursing yourself.

“Hm, I see,” Thomas replies, surprisingly unfazed by the situation. In fact, none of them seemed angry or disappointed. It caught you off guard.

“Don’t worry about it, Y/n,” Jessy was quick to assure you with a smile. “You’ve always helped us. You were always here. Sometimes, things just go wrong. And it’s something you can’t control.”

“You’re in danger because of me.” You tried to reason. This is not the first time you screwed up. First Cleo’s video, Jessy being attacked, Richy being— you can’t even bring yourself to think of it, and now this?

As if knowing what’s going on inside your head, she continues. “Chin up, Y/n. We need you,” and then she mouthed ‘I need you,' and that put a small smile on your face. “You know that, right?”

You nodded, gaze softening considerably, “thank you, Jess... That means a lot to me.”

“No, thank you, Y/n/n. Now,” she resumes a stance, hands on her hips, like a mother scolding her child. “Focus on the road, okay? Lilly won’t be ending the call so, we can still talk about what we should do.”

"Yes, ma'am!"

“So,” Thomas drawled on. “Michael knew we’d come to his house? He expected it?”

“That makes sense since the candles are lit up when you got there,” Cleo pointed out.

“That’s right.” You agreed. “He wanted us to find the phone. He planned it all.”

“Oh, my goodness,” Lilly gasped through the phone.

“Bastard’s smarter than we thought.” You muttered.

“But what are we gonna do now? Go back to Duskwood?” She questions which Cleo immediately replied.

“That’s probably for the best.”

You didn’t like the idea of them leaving, but you also didn’t like the idea of them being there where Michael Hanson knows where they are. And the location of the cabin, with no other neighbors, and is only surrounded by a dense forest doesn’t exactly work to their advantage. You chewed your lips nervously, considering their options. "Does anyone have any other ideas?" you asked, hoping for a better solution.

“Before Richy proposed the cabin, I suggested to Y/n that I was toying with the idea of the motel,” Lilly spoke up. “As a temporary place for us to stay.”

“In any case, we should decide quickly.” You say as you didn’t really know if that’s a great idea. You began to focus again on the road you were taking, and you notice that the trees on the side of the road began to dense as you went nearer to the small town. 

You couldn't shake the feeling that you were being watched. That's probably just nerves talking.

“Couldn’t we just go to a different cabin?” Jessy suggested.

Dan, however, had a different idea. 

"I have an even better idea," he announced with a grin. "We stay."

Everyone looked at him like he was crazy.

“We stay?” You repeated incredulously. “THAT’S your idea?”

“Exactly. Let him come.” He looked so smug. “I’ll just make myself comfortable, and wait for him.”

A series of “what?” came.

“I didn’t know if Y/n told you already, but I’m here because of you.” Dan went on. “To keep an eye on all of you, you know.”

“They already figure that out themselves, buddy.” You chuckled.

“You can’t be serious right now,” Jessy said in exasperation.

“Oh, but I am." Dan's expression turned serious. "I’ve got a bone to pick with that mask freak. And I’ll pick it here and now.”

“Dan,” You sighed, massaging your forehead with your free hand, “this is ridiculous, you’re in a wheelchair.”  

All of this sounds so preposterous, but as you listen to Dan, it sounded so plausible as he went on. He’s got a point. There are exactly four entrances inside the cabin as you remember Cleo’s house tour; two are located downstairs on the deck. another one in the living room, and the front door. There are five people in the room and each of them can keep an eye on each entrance. Hanson can’t get in without any of them noticing.

Sounds dangerous though but very feasible.

“I admit, he has an advantage with the forest all around us but we can change that. We even have a weapon!”

“We don’t even know who brought that.” You pointed out. “Is it even loaded?”

“It is. And we can thank whoever it was later.”

“Have you completely lost your mind, Dan?!” Lilly exclaimed. “Michael Hanson is a murderer! He’s incredibly dangerous.”

“And he always will be, as long as he's here,” he replies determinedly. “For the first time since all of this crap started, we’re all together! We even know he’s coming. Honestly? We’ve never been safer.”

“— and he won’t be expecting you to defend yourselves.” You wondered aloud.

“Exactly.”

“I can’t believe I’m about to say this but—” Cleo shook her head for a bit. ”Dan might be right, guys.”

“This is totally crazy yet,” you paused. “I agree.”

“That’s the spirit.” He sounded so proud. “We’ve put up with this long enough. This is our chance to end it. Do you agree?”

“Yes,” Thomas mumbled. “I guess.”

“More or less,” Jessy replies, a bit skeptical.

“Can we really do this?” Lilly asks in a mere whisper.

“Definitely!” Dan answers with conviction.

“Okay, okay. Then... I supposed I’m in.”

“Yeah, me too.” Cleo agrees.

“Today almost felt like everything was back to normal again.” Jessy bows her head down, a curtain of shiny red hair hid her face, and it wouldn’t take a genius to know she was crying. It’s true, they seemed so happy earlier that you don’t even want to disturb them if it’s up to you. “I really had a lot of fun and for a while, I wasn’t thinking about the danger we were all in. I had almost forgotten what it was like.”  She raised her head, and the sight of her red, puffy eyes and tear-stained cheeks makes your heart break. “I want my old life back...”

“You will, and we’ll make sure of that,” Dan reassures her. “We’re done running away. We’re ending this tonight, once and for all.”

“Yes, we’re going to put a stop to this. I promise you that, Jessy.” Determination swelling in your voice. “Do what you need to do, everyone. I’m on my way.”

With that, you ended the call so, they can prepare.

Jake is still with you as you passed by the dense forest you knew Duskwood is known for. You would have appreciated the fresh air and picturesque scenery if you weren’t driving for a life-and-death situation. Dan's sudden pep talk has left you feeling more optimistic about the plan, but Jake remains doubtful. In fact, their chances right now are better than they have ever been.

Your group’s move right now is unpredictable as you all changed your approach from defending to a more direct confrontation, and Jake noticed that. However, the risk of an unexpected move to your enemy is still there.

After that, Jake informs you that he’s following another lead, and he needs to focus on that. You didn’t pry no more as you know he’ll tell you eventually. Right now, you need to focus on getting your ass in Duskwood.

The map says five more minutes until you reach the hut and you noted it’s been a while since you left Colville. You've driven at an astonishing speed, covering two hundred miles in record time without attracting any unwanted attention— mainly the police. There's also no traffic and you haven't crashed the car yet, and you're almost there.

You tried to think of the possibility that the man without a face is possibly getting ready to visit your friends. And if you do arrive there on time what could you do?

With years of experience, you are confident in your martial art skills and relatively, your hacking skills are almost parred with Jake’s, and all the while, you’re also a psychologist. You’re pretty confident those skills will be able to handle a possible psychopath on the loose. He's gonna be one of too many criminals you'll be putting behind bars.

Taking a deep breath, you pull over a short distance away from the cabin. The forest is dense, and two cars are parked outside, likely belonging to Thomas and Cleo. With a quick scan of your surroundings, you breathe a sigh of relief at the absence of the man without a face. You decide to alert the group through the chat to avoid causing panic.

You: Hey guys?

I'm here

Jessy: Omg

Wait

I'm gonna get you, Y/n

Dan: Finally you're here

Stay in your position Jessy

Y/n come over by the deck

I'm the one guarding it

You eagerly complied with his request and made your way to the deck. The darkness of the night enveloped you, but you didn't let that faze you. Hanson had the upper hand in this terrain, but you weren't going to let that stop you. 

Instead of rummaging through your backpack for a flashlight, you relied on the gentle glow of the moon to guide your way. As you approached the deck, you couldn't help but chuckle at how serious Dan appeared to be. It was as if he was completely oblivious to your presence, even though he was staring right at you.

How he managed to be both alert and ignorant of your approach was beyond comprehension.

Trying not to startle him (who were you kidding? You wanted to scare him), you tapped gently on the glass of the door.

"Hey, Dan."

"Jesus fucking Christ, Y/n." You laughed as you saw the shock register on his face. Despite his macho exterior, you knew he was still nervous about Michael's arrival. He quickly unlocked the door and allowed you to enter.

"It's good to see you, too, Dan."

With quick eyes, you surveyed the entire cabin as best as you could, given the dim lighting. You let out a soft whistle of appreciation. If it weren't for the fact that a murderer was after you, this cabin would be the perfect place to relax.

"Hey, Sherlock, Lilly, and Cleo are over there." You squinted your eyes to see the two girls, and you found it amusing how intently they were focused on the front door. "Tommy boy's downstairs, and Jessy's upstairs. Go meet them and then head to Jessy. Both of you will be our lookout. Or," he raised an eyebrow. "you and hackerman have other leads to follow?"

"For now, I've got nothing else to do. Are you sure you're going to be okay here, though? Do you need me somewhere else?"

"Nah, I've got this baby right here." He waved the gun, and you rolled your eyes in a joking manner. This guy was something else. "Besides, let me do the violent stuff, and you and hackerman can do your hacking things."

"Whatever you say, pal. See you later."

"Yeah, see you."

You shook your head fondly. You didn't have high expectations for meeting Dan in person. He was still the same old knucklehead with a sense of humor that either made you want to laugh or glared at. You strode forward and passed by the kitchen, heading to the unsuspecting girls.

"Hey." You whispered, not wanting to startle them. Both of them whipped their heads toward you, and you were sure Lilly was about to scream. You stifled a laugh.

"Oh my God, you're really here." Lily looked genuinely surprised, giving your shoulder a playful slap. "I thought you were joking."

"I wouldn't miss this for the world." You ruffled her hair, earning a small groan from the youngest Donfort.

"It's so nice to see you finally in person," Cleo said, flashing you a large grin. "Are we overdue for handshakes, or can we skip to the hug?"

You chuckled softly. "Seriously, Cleo? We've all been through so much. I think a hug is long overdue. Come here."

"You're one brave idiot," she murmured against your ear. "I can't believe you're really here."

"And I can't believe we didn't notice you coming into the house. Are you with the FBI or something?" Lilly complained as you hugged her.

You give her head a gentle pat, a small smile on your lips as you speak. "Really? I wasn't exactly stealthy when I came here. You guys are just too focused on staring at the door."

"Really, we've been keeping an eye on the front this whole time. We never saw you or your car." Lilly insisted with a pout.

"I parked a little ways away from the house and made my way to the deck. You probably missed me because of my getup." You explained, gesturing to your all-black ensemble, from your dress shirt down to your boots, even your bag is the same shade.

"Gotta admit, it's a pretty smart choice of attire," Cleo nods in agreement, scanning the darkness outside as she spoke, though there’s nothing to see out there given how dark it is. No surprise how they weren't able to detect you. "You blend right in. Anyway, we'd love to chat more but we've got work to do. Have you met everyone yet?"

"I'm heading upstairs to meet Jessy. Haven't seen Thomas yet, though. Mr. Jack Daniels has a job for me to do." You replied, a small grin on your face.

"Okay. We'll be talking in the group chat, right? In case you or Jake found something?"

"Of course, Lilly." You assured her, waving your phone in the air. "Let me know if anyone of you notices something unusual, alright?"

"Got it." They nodded, and you smiled at them for the last time before deciding to walk your way toward the upper floor.

But before you can make your way upstairs, you pause, turning back to face them.

Being here with them, brought up a lot of mixed feelings. Things are gonna be risky, and unpredictable for both sides. Seeing them like this, you feel proud but at the same time you have this dreadful feeling of guilt, it feels like you brought this to them. "I...I just wanted to say I'm sorry for stepping into your life like this..."

Lilly and Cleo exchanged a fond smile, their words washing away the guilt that had been weighing on you. "We're glad you're here, Y/n."

~~~~

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