Archive of Our Own

1908

The sun shines bright on this beautiful summer day in Derry, Maine. I perform my act as an aerial acrobatic performer, using rings, silk ropes and other moves. My costume is a beautiful black unitard with fake gems, sheer material on my arms and between my breasts, and an open back. I also wear acrobatic shoes, black makeup on my eyes and lips, making my violet eyes stand out more, my white hair in a long braid that reaches past my rear end. I also have long, black nails, which does make performing more challenging, but I make it work. 

When I finish my show, I bow, the crowd clapping and cheering. I stand up, and I see the daughter of another performer smiling and clapping.

As the curtain draws closed, I begin cleaning up my equipment. I get a feeling, causing me to look up at the barn nearby. I see what I think is a little boy watching the carnival, but I can’t see exactly what he’s looking at.

I place my things back in their box, where they’d stay safe. I begin walking around the carnival, visiting with the people and occasionally performing a few tricks. As I walk, I see one of the performers, Pennywise the Dancing Clown, put on his show. The children smile and watch his show, clearly enamored by the lovable clown. I chuckle as he does his performance, smiling as I watch from the back. When he finishes his performance, the curtains close. When they open again, he begins doing a dance as red balloons fall to the ground. The children run up onto the stage, crowding Pennywise and copying his dance, forcing him off the stage. I clap a bit before I turn and continue walking.

That evening, the sun sets as I finish my last performance of the day. I go back to my trailer, and I see my door is opened a crack. I raise a brow, opening it slowly. I peek inside, and I see Pennywise passed out on my bed. Well, his name is actually Robert Gray. His stage name is Pennywise. I shut the door, slowly walking over. I hear him breathing evenly, deep in sleep. I also see a flask on the bed next to him, his clown makeup still on and his wig off. I chuckle softly, getting water to heat up so I can clean off my makeup. As the water heats up in the kettle, I begin taking off my aerial boots and leotard. I take my hair out of its braid, put on my night dress, and put on my necklace.

“Well, that wasn’t a sight I thought I’d see”
I turn around, seeing Robert sitting up, looking at me. I smile softly “Good to see you’re awake, Mr. Gray”

He looks around my trailer “I take it this isn’t my trailer?”

I chuckle, shaking my head “‘Fraid not. Yours is down just a bit” I walk over to my kettle, pouring the hot water into a bowl. I grab a rag and the bowl, walking over to the bed. I set the bowl on the table, dipping the rag into the water.

He watches me as I wring out the water “You don’t seem upset I’m here”

I chuckle as I sit right in front of him “Well, I saw you sleeping and didn’t feel like waking you up. Performers need their sleep. But not necessarily with their make up on”

He chuckles a bit, moving closer so I sit between his long legs. He holds still as I carefully clean off the face paint. I feel him staring at me as I clean away the oily makeup.

I look at his eyes as I clean around them “I do apologize if you saw me indecent. I thought you were still sleeping”

He smiles “Oh, it’s alright. I didn’t see much. You’re hair seemed to cover almost everything”

I chuckle softly as we sit in silence. I’ve cleaned most of his face, starting to clean his mouth, his eyes moving down to my chest.

He reaches up, gently lifting up my necklace “What’s this?”

I tense a bit, hesitant “A symbol of protection. One that isn’t exactly common, especially around here”

His eyes look up “What do you mean?”

“It’s called a Witch’s Knot. It was traditionally used to ward off negative energy, evil spirits and curses. More recently, for those who do practice witchcraft, it’s used as a symbol of power and protection” I finish cleaning the face paint off and I stand up, taking the bowl and dumping it outside. I add new hot water to the bowl so I can clean up my own make up “I try to keep any witchcraft confined to my trailer”

Robert looks at me as he stands up, walking over a bit and ducking his head to not hit his head on the ceiling “What do you use witchcraft for?”

“Protection, prosperity,  healing, growth. Lots of positive things. There will be an occasion when I use it to block bad spirits and energies. Which…is something I typically need every couple of weeks or so”

Robert gently takes the damp rag from my hand, placing a hand under my chin and making me look up at him. He starts gently cleaning around my eyes “Why is that? We don’t have lots of bad people around here, do we?”

I close my eyes, chuckling softly “No, nothing like that. There is the occasional creep when we go from town to town, but I mean actual spirits”

I feel Robert pause, making me open my eyes to look at his confused face “Spirits? Like, ghosts?”

I nod softly “Yes. I have this…ability. I don’t know what it’s called, but I can see spirits. Do things others would call magic or witchcraft. After so long, I just decided to embrace the title of witch”

He continues cleaning my face as we stand in silence. He moves from my eyes to my lips, and I feel his touch linger a little longer. I watch him, his eyes a beautiful blue as they look at my lips. When he sees me watching, his clears his throat, finishing cleaning “There we go”

I carefully take the bowl and the rag, dumping the water. I put the bowl on a table, pausing a bit “You don’t seem to avoid me. Not like everyone else. Others take one look at me and think I’m a freak, cursed, or both” I look at him “Why?”

He smile softly as he walks over “The way you look doesn’t make you a freak or cursed. It makes you unique. Combined that with your act, and you look almost angelic”

I chuckle, feeling my cheeks heat up a bit “Not so much angelic. The black doesn’t really scream angel, now does it?”

He chuckles “No, I suppose not. But, you do look quite lovely”

He lifts my chin up as he leans down. He places a gentle kiss on the corner of my mouth, before he stands up straight, his thumb gently running along my jaw. I feel my face burning, making him chuckle. He glances outside, seeing it’s starting to dark. He looks at me “I should head out and get something to eat before my next show. Have a good night, Miss Frost”

I smile, blushing “You too, Mr. Gray”

He smiles “You can call me Robert. Or Bob, if you’d like”

I chuckle softly “Then you can call me Lilith. Or Lily if you like”

He chuckles, heading out the door. Before he shuts the door, he gives a slight bow “Goodnight, Lily” he shuts the door, leaving me back to my own devices. 

I sit on my bed, taking a breath “Gods above. He is a helluva charmer”

A few days have passed since Bob and I had our conversation. After a long day of performing and dealing with the crowds, night falls and the lights of the carnival shine bright. I walk through the carnival, barefoot and holding the cover of my long black dress close together. As I get to the edge of the carnival, near the edge of this dark forest, I see Bob, wearing his costume, minus the wig, walking into the woods, a little boy holding his hand.

Something is wrong. The boy…he’s not really a boy. I walk after the two, the both of them disappearing in the darkness. I keep walking, trying to figure out where they went. I suddenly hear a disturbing and disgusting sound. Flesh tearing, bones breaking and something eating.

I walk toward the sound, worried for my colleague and friend “Bob? Are you alright?”

I see the outline of Bob’s costume, standing still. I walk a bit closer, but something is off. He’s taller and his wig is back in place.

Despite my blood screaming at me to turn and run, I slowly approach him “Bob?”

He slowly turns, facing me, and I gasp softly. His eyes are no longer blue, but a fiery yellow. Almost glowing in the darkness.

“What the hell are you?” I back up slightly, the…creature turning more. It seems to tower over me, much taller than myself.

It tilts it’s head, a deep growl rumbling from its chest.

I start turning to quickly leave “Nope. Nope. I’m not dealing with this bull--”

I suddenly get slammed against a tree, a gloved hand pressed over my mouth as the creature stands incredibly close to me. It stares down at me, a string of drool falling from its bloody mouth. It looks like a more deranged, malformed version of Bob’s Pennywise. It leans its head closer to the left side of my neck, sniffing my throat.

I gasp softly when I feel its long, slimy tongue slide across my throat. I quickly move its hand down and I bite into its hand, biting through the glove and blood flooding my mouth.

The creature lets out a small pained roar before I feel dozens of needle-like teeth dig into the space between my throat and shoulder. I bite down harder in pain, blood flowing down my throat and my own blood dripping down my shoulder.

When it lets go, it licks up the blood. It then rips its hand from my teeth, using that hand to wrap around my throat. I gasp softly, grabbing its wrist, trying to keep it from choking me.

It growls as I stare at its eyes, the glowing yellow burrowing into my very soul.

Suddenly, I feel this painful heat in my chest and moving through my veins. I gasp in pain, trying to breathe. It feels like I’m trying to breathe in pure fire.

I see the same glowing yellow burn through my veins, moving throughout my body. The creature tilts its head, watching my pain.

“Aah!” My vision shifts and changes, and I see the past few million years, and even before that. It’s as if I’m seeing this things life. I see the darkness of space. Stars. Planets. Then I see this terrifying and beautiful being. The only way my mind can comprehend this being, is three bright lights. I stare at the lights for so long, entranced in the almost calming lights.

When I come to, I gasp deeply as I shoot straight up. I feel pain course throughout my body, making me lay back down “Ah! What the hell…?”

I look around, seeing several other colleagues standing around me. I see I’m in my trailer, and I carefully sit up, wincing in pain.

The carnival barker holds up a hand “Easy, easy now. We found you right outside the forest, covered in blood. We figured you got attacked by some wolves or something”

I look over my body, seeing I don’t have just the bite wound on my shoulder, but claw marks and bite marks cover the rest of me “Yeah…or something” I look at the barker “Where’s Bob?”

He glances back at the others, then looks at me, shaking his head “We didn’t find a body. Just a bloody handkerchief. We think he got dragged off by a wolf pack”

I nod softly, remembering what I saw.

Due to my injuries, I decide to retire and stay back in Derry, the carnival allowing me to keep my trailer. I begin tidying up my space, bandages around my injuries. As I clean, I feel this…presence. It feels just like that creature. I freeze, feeling this presence approach me, until I feel a hand barely graze my left shoulder. With a swift motion, I turn and punch the creature in the nose, making it stumble back. I breathe shakily, my injuries screaming at me as the creature stands up straight, touching its now bleeding nose.

“Get. Out”

It stares at the blood, then seems to smirk as it looks at me “Interesting”

I tense up, taking a step back. Its voice. It sounds so much like Bob’s. I clench my fists, trying to keep them from shaking “What the hell are you?”

It wipes its blood away, the remnants floating upwards as it walks closer to me, backing me up against the wall. It grabs my jaw, forcing me to look up “You smell…strange. You taste…strange”

I glare “You didn’t answer my question”

It grins, rows of sharp teeth as its grip tightens, making me wince “I am an eater of worlds. And you…are a little witch. Your blood tastes…sweet. Floral. Flower witch” I bite at his fingers, but it pulls its fingers back “Ah, ah, ah. No more bitting ol’ Pennywise”

I stiffen “You are not Pennywise. You are not Bob Gray. You’re not a clown. You’re not even a human” I push the creature’s hand away “When I’m able to, I’m getting the hell out of this town”

It tilts its head, lower its face so its nose barely touches mine “And who said you could leave?”

My eyes widen a bit “What…?”

It chuckles “You won’t leave unless I let you” It grabs my chin “You are far too tasty to let go”

I glare “You son of a bitch!” I go to hit the creature, but it disappears. I breathe heavily, then I sit on my bed “Damnit…”

While trapped in Derry, I witness a horrific incident. A massive explosion at a factory, resulting in the deaths of 102 people, 88 of them being children. 

The creature…it’s gone. For who knows how long, but it’s gone.

1935

It’s now been 27 years since I’ve met the creature that killed Bob and trapped me in this town. I now work at the local high school. The town already talks and whispers about me, calling me a witch and a few other unsavory names. I begin walking out of the school, heading home, when I see a car slow down next to me.

“Need a lift home?”

I look over, seeing Ingrid Gray, now Ingrid Kersh, all grown up. She’s wearing a nurses uniform, most likely getting ready to head off to her job at Juniper Hills.

I smile softly “Ingrid. Are you sure you want to be seen driving me home?”

She smiles, opening the passenger side door “Come on”

I chuckle softly, getting into the car. She begins driving me to my house, but I see her hands are tense on the wheel.

I look at her “What’s wrong?”

“Nothing. Everything is fine”

I raise a brow “Don’t you lie to me, Ingrid”

She takes a breath “I saw papa”

I tense up, clenching my fists “What…?”

“He was at Juniper Hills. He was…changed. After being apart so long. He’s come back to me”

I look at her, tears flowing down her face. I take a breath “How…how did he change?”

“He, uhm…killed a little girl. Ate her. His eyes…they were--”

“Yellow. Bright, almost glowing, yellow”

She looks at me as we pull up to my house “You saw him, too?”

I shake my head “Not recently. Nearly 30 years ago. Ingrid, I want you to listen to me. Be careful. Please?”

She nods, gently grabbing my hand “I will. I just…” She takes a breath “I want my papa back. I want him to see me again. Remember his Periwinkle”

I nod softly “I’ll see you another time, Ingrid” I get out of her car, heading to my house. Folks called this place the Neibolt house, due to the street name and the fact that it was abandoned for a very long time before I bought it, moving in.

Inside, I put my things away. I go into the kitchen, heating up water in the kettle. As I wait for the water to heat up, I feel its presence again. In one swift movement, I grab a knife from the knife block, spinning around and aiming to stab the creature in its throat. It grabs my wrist, stopping the blade from stabbing into its throat, the tip of the blade barely touching its skin. 

It stares down at me, smirking “Pretty little witch. Still smell so…appetizing”

I try to pull my wrist away, but it won't let go. I glare “Get out of my house”

It chuckles “I think you mean ‘our’ house, witch”

My eyes widen “Oh, absolutely not. This is my house, and I will not be sharing it with some child eating monster!”

It giggles “Aww, don’t you like ol’ Pennywise?” It lowers its face closer to mine, backing me against the counter “I will eat and kill however I please. And there is nothing you can do to stop it” It uses its other hand to grab my throat “All you can do is watch as the town grows and changes without you. You will watch as I feed on the humans. On their tasty, tasty fear” It licks a long strip up my throat, a strange purring sound vibrating within its chest. I grimace as the drool drips down my skin.

I quickly move my head back, swinging it forward. It slams into its face, hard, making the creature let out a pained growl. It stumbles back a bit, allowing me to take the knife and aim it at its chest “Get the hell out of my house. I will not tolerate monsters in my home”

It wipes some blood floating from its cut cheek. It growls deeply as it smirks “You are very brave, little witch. And rather impulsive. Making Pennywise bleed isn’t very nice”

I glare, my grip on the knife tightening “You are not Pennywise. He was a kind man, who wouldn’t hurt anyone. Impersonating him is a cruel joke to those who knew him”

In the blink of an eye, the creature tackles me to the ground, the knife flying out of my hand as it pins my arms down. Its legs rest on either side of me as it growls, lowering its face to mine.

I breathe heavily, its drool dripping out of its mouth and onto my cheek. It roars out, biting into the space between my throat and right shoulder. I gasp in pain, trying to kick my legs in any attempt to get free. I feel it purr as it drinks my blood, its tongue moving across my skin.

When it finally lets go, it looks down at me, its eyes almost glowing as blood covers its mouth “You taste so strange, yet so, so wonderful” It rubs its face against mine, smearing blood across my cheek “I will watch. I will sleep. I will return, my tasty little witch” It runs its sharp teeth against my throat, drawing blood.

It quickly leaves, leaving me bleeding heavily on the floor. I breathe shakily, the kettle whistling loudly. I shakily push myself to sit up, leaning against the cabinets. I grab a towel, pressing it against the fresh bite wound. I wince, clenching my teeth as I put pressure on the injury “Son of a bitch” I take a deep breath, closing my eyes “This town is so screwed”

I was actually correct. The Bradly Gang had a massive shoot out with the police officers and civilians alike. Many people died and I saw ‘Pennywise’ joining in on the killing.

1962

Another 27 years has come and gone. I’m now 79 years old, even though I still look 25. I still work as a teacher, the towns folk getting used to me and my oddities, but they are still cautious.

One snowy winter’s night, I’m walking across the bridge when I see a car drive past. In the back seat I see a student of mine, Matty. He makes eye contact with me, pleading with me. His voice is muffled as the car passes me “Help me!”

I watch him as the car swerves and drifts before it comes to a stop. It’s silent for a moment, until I see blood splatter onto the window and Matty’s pacifier crash through the window, falling into the river below. I walk toward the car, and I see Matty’s butchered body. Suddenly, this demonic mutated baby creature pops up, shrieking a bit.

I glare, flicking the creature on the nose “Stop eating the good kids. If you’re going to eat children, eat the ones that actually deserve it” The creature bites at my hand, making me flick it away “Such a pest”

I turn, heading back home.

Four months have passed since Matty’s ‘disappearance’.

At the school, I finish tidying up my classroom before getting ready to head home. I leave my classroom, nearly running into two of my students, Lilly Bainbridge and Margret Truman.

I smile “Hello, girls” I sniff a bit, looking at Lilly, sighing softly “Pickles in the locker again?”

She sighs “Yeah, but I’m okay”

I nod “Alright. Well, you let me know if you need anything, alright? Both of you. My door is always open”

She smiles “Thank you, Miss Frost”

I nod and start heading out of the school, the click of my heels being heard against the tile floor.

As I begin walking home, enjoying the bit of sunshine, I see a red balloon, just sitting alone next to a tree. I tense up, staring as the balloon floats away. I speed up, walking home.

A few nights later, I take a late night walk. I walk past the theater, but I hear some faint yelling. I quickly walk into the theater. I walk until I get to the door where the yelling is coming from. I peek inside, and I see Lilly with Teddy Uris, Susie Malkin and Phil Malkin screaming and yelling as the demonic baby flies around. I watch as it starts killing the kids. It rips Teddy apart, throwing him at the window to the projection room. Phil gets mauled and Susie gets her hand ripped off. I sigh softly before I walk out of the theater, hearing the blood curdling scream of Lilly behind me.

By Monday morning, people believe it was Hank Grogan who killed and took the bodies of the kids. I start walking toward the school, students talking about the incident. I see Hank’s daughter, Ronnie, looking a bit tense. I look over and see a new student walking up with his parents.

I smile, walking over “Hello. You must be the Hanlons, right?”

The dad smiles “Yes, ma’am. My name is Major Leroy Hanlon, this is my wife Charlotte and our son Will”

I shake their hands “It’s wonderful to meet you all. And please don’t be discouraged by my appearance, I am much older than I look. My name’s Lilith Frost”

Leroy nods “And what do you teach, Miss Frost?”

“I teach history. Been teaching for a long time now. Well, it was a pleasure to meet you both. Will, would you like me to show you the classes?”

He nods “Yes, ma’am” he hugs his parents before we walk into the school. Will looks at me, a face of curiosity crossing his face.

I glance at him “You’re staring, Mr. Hanlon”

He jumps a bit “I’m so sorry, ma’am”

I chuckle softly “You’re not the first person to stare, and you certainly won’t be the last. I do hope you have a good first day of school, Will. Come by my classroom if you have any questions or concerns, alright?”

He nods “Thanks, Miss Frost”

I nod and show him to his locker before I head to my classroom.

Principal Dunleavey’s voice crackles over the intercom.

“Good morning, students. This is Principal Dunleavy speaking. It's 9:00 a.m. on another sunny spring day” The school bell rings and I can hear the groans of the students in the hall, making me chuckle “Now I would like to thank everyone who attended last week's candlelight vigil for Theodore Uris and Philip and Susie Malkin” ‘Mashed Potato Time’ by Dee Dee Sharp playing “It was an uplifting evening of prayer and remembrance. And a strong reminder that as a community, we can weather any storm. Oh, and the cafeteria will not be serving its usual sloppy Joes” More groans from the students “In its place will be meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and something green” A three-tone melody falling over speakers.

I shake my head a bit as students file into my class. I teach my class, trying to keep the children's focus on the lesson, rather than the theater incident.

The day goes by with students picking on Lilly and Ronnie, Will making friends with a boy named Ricardo Santo.

The next day, a police car pulls up to the school after the day is over. I raise a brow as Lilly gets put into the back of the car, driving off. I sigh softly, shaking my head a bit.

I walk back to my house, this place I’ve had for about 40 years now, cleaned up and livable.

I go inside, setting my things down before I head to the basement. In the middle of the room, sits an old well. I glare a bit “Stop traumatizing my students, jackass!” I huff and head back upstairs.

That night, I change my dress, changing into something fitting for a night out, but also making me stand out to the people of theirs town, and I head out to grab a drink from the local bar.

I grab my purse and head to the bar as the sun starts going down. I walk into the bar, seeing three colored airmen sitting at a table, laughing and drinking.

I walk over to the bar, the bartender tensing up a bit as I walk to the counter.

“Miss Frost, it might be better if you leave”

I lean against the counter, staring him down “All I’m wanting is one drink. That’s not too much to ask, now is it, Elmer? One little drink?”

He stares back at me, then sighs “Alright, alright. One drink”

I nod “Thank you”

He moves and grabs a glass, filling it with whiskey. He sets it down, nodding at me. I take out some money, paying him as he walks away.

I sit on one of the stools, crossing my legs. I take a small drink, listening to the men at the table. 

“Man, that’s bullshit. Like I’m gonna help someone beat up another colored airman. I mean…have you seen me?” He hiccups “Have you seen me? I ain't got nothing to be jealous of”

“Listen, I don't know what it was, but I guarantee y'all, it was some cracker shit”

“I agree with you. Coming to me, asking me like I did something” Another one scoffs “I'm as clean as a whistle”

“Reggie, ain't nothing clean about you”

“Please”

“But, man, they questioned my ass damn near an hour”

“They hitting up everybody”

“What the hell you think this is all about?”

A man playing the bagpipes walks out of a back room.

“Don't see, don't say. Go along to get along, you dig?”

“All the way to China, baby”

The man playing the bagpipes walks past, and I watch him bump into a table, falling over a bit.

“Whoa”

“You all right there, Bernie?”

I chuckle, taking another drink.

“So how long they question you for?”

“They didn't”

“Then what'd you do all day?”

“I can't talk about that. Super-secret spy mission”

The two other men start laughing.

“Man, you full of shit. Okay. We'll see. I'm telling you. Oh, I forgot…”

I watch the door open, Chief Bowers walking in. He looks at me, then nods in greeting. I nod back, taking another drink.

The airmen talk to each other, having a good time. As I drink, listening to the talk through the bar, I feel a presence in my mind. Not Pennywise. Human. I look over, seeing one of the men staring at me with confusion and curiosity.

I take a drink, using my gift to talk to him in his mind “I know you're there. Not polite to peek in on a lady's thoughts. Least not without permission” I smile, winking a bit before I finish my drink. I see the man smiling, watching me as I climb off the stool. I walk towards the door, feeling the man’s eyes follow me out. I pause, looking at him. I smirk, waving a bit before I leave the bar.

I decide to walk around town, until I get to a large tree near the edge of town and on the way to the military base.

I gently place a hand on the tree, then I take a pocket knife out of my purse, carving a protective rune into the trunk. Gods know this place needs it.

After I carve the rune, I stab my finger, tracing the rune with my blood. I hear voices and laughter. One of them is a bit more drunk than the others.

I glance over, seeing the man from earlier looking at me. His colleagues look over, smile, then lower their voices. I chuckle softly, putting my knife away.

I hear someone clear their throat, and I see the man from earlier has walked over, seemingly cautious “Evening, ma’am”

I smile “Evening, soldier. What can I do for you?”

He smiles “Thought I’d introduce myself properly. Name’s Dick Hallorann”

I chuckle softly “Well, Mr. Hallorann, my name is Lilith Frost. But you can call me Lily” I hold my hand out.

His smile widens as he gently takes my hand. Suddenly, what appears to be memories flash through my mind. Feeling the pain, seeing the trauma. Seeing what he can do.

When my vision returns to normal, Dick looks at me in shock, the two of us breathing heavily.

I let out a small laugh “Well, at least my suspicions were right. You’re like me”

He smiles “It’s not very often I meet someone else with the shine. And never someone like you. Quite the past, Miss Frost”

I smirk “Well, maybe we can talk more another day” I reach into my purse, grabbing a pen and paper. I write down my address and phone number, as well as my name. I hand it to him “Here. Now you know how to find me. Through the proper channels”

He chuckles “Thank you, Miss Frost”

I step closer, gently grabbing the front of his uniform “Anytime, Mr. Hallorann” I gently kiss his cheek before I start walking away. I hear his colleagues laughing and applauding him. I blush, smiling wide.

Over the next couple of days, Hank gets arrested and Lilly gets sent to Juniper Hills again. As I sleep one night, my dream shifts to a dig sight, where an older man and Leroy Hanlon watching as a car from the 1935 shoot out.

I open my eyes, staring at my ceiling. I take a breath “Fuck”

The next day, I call out of work, letting Dunleavy know I need to take a day off for personal reasons.

I begin walking towards the military base, getting the occasional glance from the citizens. When I get to the gate, two soldiers stand at attention, looking at me.

“Ma’am, we’re gonna need you to turn around and head back to town”

“I need a word with your superior. Immediately”

“On what grounds?”

I take a breath, giving an exact location. One of the soldiers nods to the other, and he walks to a phone, talking into it. He looks at me, then nods. He walks back over, nodding to me “Ma’am, I’ll escort you in”

I nod “Thank you, sir”

I follow the soldier inside, passing several men, all looking at me. As we walk, I see Dick Hallorann, looking at me confused and a bit shocked. I smirk, waving a bit. The soldier leads me to an office, knocking on the door.

The door opens and the soldier looks inside “Sir, she’s here”

“Let her in”

I walk inside, seeing an older man in a uniform. He stares at me, confusion and concern written all over his face. He looks at the soldier “Dismissed”

The soldier nods and the general looks at me. He walks around his desk, cautious “My name is General Francis Shaw. What’s your name, ma'am?”

“Lilith Frost. I’m a school teacher from town”

“How did you know that location? Did someone from my base tell you?”

“No. I saw it. That car should have been left alone. What the hell are you trying to do here?”

He shakes his head “That is classified information” He pauses “How did you see it?”

I tense up “I saw it in a dream. I know, it sounds crazy, but it's the truth. And based on all of this, I was right”

He walks to the door, opening it and whispering something to someone outside. He shuts the door again, then looks at me “I want to see what you can do” He walks to his desk, taking out an old cigar box. He hands it to me, seeming curious.

I take the box, opening it. I raise a brow, seeing a slingshot. It has the same energy as Pennywise. I gently touch the slingshot, and immediately sees flashes of the past. A young boy and young girl interacting with It in a different form. Them running from It. Them hurting It with the sling shot. I pull my hand back, putting the box on the desk.

The general looks at me “What did you see?”

I look at him “What I’m assuming was your past. You’ve seen it. The creature that uses this town as its personal hunting grounds”

He nods “We’re trying to find something connected to it”

I tilt my head, confused. The door opens, and another older soldier enters.

Shaw nods "Colonel Fuller, this is Lilith Frost. She is a citizen from town”

The Colonel nods, and we shake hands “Ma’am”

I nod “Colonel. Pleasure to meet you”

Shaw nods “She’ll be aiding Hallorann on his search. Make sure she’s ready for take off”

I raise a brow “Take off?” My eyes widen “No, no, no, no. I am not getting on a plane”

He looks at me “It’s a helicopter, not a plane”

“Motherfucker, I am a school teacher. I haven’t left Derry since ‘08. What the hell makes you think I know anything about aircrafts?”

“Relax. You’ll be with two of our best pilots”

I sigh, frustrated “Fine, fine. But if I get sick, I’m blaming you”

He holds up his hands “Fine by me. Colonel”

The Colonel nods “Ma’am, if you would”

I follow the Colonel outside, where we meet with Dick Hallorann.

 Fuller nods at me “Airmen Hallorann, meet Lilith Frost. She’s here to give us a little more help with our search”

Dick smiles “Pleasure to meet you, ma’am”

I smile, shaking his hand “Pleasure is all mine, Mr. Hallorann”

Fuller brings us to the strip where the aircrafts are. I see Leroy Hanlon and another man walking over, already in flying gear.

“Major”

Hanlon nods “Colonel”

Fuller looks at Dick “Airman Hallorann, this is Major Hanlon, Captain Russo. They'll be your crew for today's surveillance flight”

Dick nods “How they hangin’, fellas?”

Fuller gestures to me “This is Lilith Frost. She’s a civilian. She is here to give us a hand in what we need to know”

Leroy smiles “Ma’am. Pleasure to see you again”

I smile “Likewise, Major”

Russo looks at Fuller “Sir, how is she going to help us?”

“The weapon we’re looking for. She’s been in contact with it before”

Russo nods, still a bit unsure “Alright then. Uh, sir, what exactly are we gonna be surveying this afternoon?”

“Your consoles. Think of Hallorann here as a human compass. You go wherever he says to” Fuller hands Dick the old cigar box.

Leroy nods “Sounds good” He looks at Dick “Let’s get you in the air”

We head to the helicopter, and I take a breath before climbing in.

I sit down on one of the benches, Dick sitting next to me. He glances at me, seeing my hands shaking a bit.

He smiles a bit “You ever fly before?”

I shake my head “Never”

He seems to hesitate, then he holds out his hand. I look at it, then smile. I gently take his hand, earning a smile in return.

When the helicopter starts taking off, I grip his hand tight, while he rubs his thumb across my hand. I take a shaky breath as we fly over the land.

With his other hand, Dick holds the cigar box.

Leroy looks at Dick “So, Hallorann”

“Yeah?”

“What’s with the cigars?”

“No cigars in here. You wouldn’t understand”

I look at Dick, then I hold out my right arm, showing one of my scars. I gently take Dick’s hand, holding it over the scar. I look at him, waiting for confirmation. He nods and I place his hand on my scar. He closes his eyes, taking a breath.

Dick starts breathing heavily, and I feel a small pull in my chest. Dick grunts softly “You’re--you’re gonna need to turn east. East. Now!”

Leroy nods “Roger that. East we go”

We continue flying, the helicopter blades whirring.

Dick  grunts, his grip tightening on my arm.

Pauly looks back at us “Hey, Hallorann, you all right back there?” Hallorann groans “Hallorann!” more groaning. Pauly looks at Leroy “The hell's he doing?”

“You think I know what's going on with him?”

Hallorann groans, and I place my other hand on his. Suddenly, I see what Dick is seeing.

“Hallorann!”

Dick grunts and groans.

Pauly looks at Leroy "’Human compass’? Look at this fսcking guy. Look like a human compass to you? He's having a goddamn fit”

Hallorann grunts, mutters, his hands shaking.

“Jesus Christ”

“Ground, this is USAF-KC135”

“I got a buddy at Fort Bragg, he was saying that they're doing, like, mind control on goats or some shit” Hallorann moans “Is that what this is? Is this some goat shit, Lee?”

“There appears to be something wrong with Hallorann. Unresponsive. Requesting permission to head back”

I hear the operator on the radio “That's a negative, Major Hanlon. Maintain present course”

“I'm advising again. Unresponsive”

I can feel Dick’s heart beating rapidly, his eyes flying open. He lets go of my hand, but I still see and hear what he sees.

Leroy’s voice is muffled and echoing “Requesting permission to head back. I'm advising that Airman Hallorann is unresponsive! Requesting permission to head back! Hallorann! Hey! Hallorann!”

I stand up, slowly following after Dick. I see him step into some water, a large, safe door creaking, then it  slams shut, locks.

We appear to be in the sewer system, walking through shin deep water, toys floating by. In front of us, sits the stage of Pennywise the dancing clown.

We walk a little closer, the water rippling. The stage door creaks open, slamming down with a rumbling echo.

There’s just silence as we stare at the pitch black darkness.

That is, until two bright, glowing yellow eyes stare back at us. A distorted growl rumbles from within.

“Who. Are. You?”

His gaze turns to me, a purring sound replacing the growling “Little witch”

Suddenly, Dick and I see flashes of soldiers dying during battle, meshed with people laughing and yelling during a festival of sorts.

An explosion knocks us out of the vision, as toys begin falling all around us. I look up, Dick’s gaze following mine. We see the tower of floating bodies and random assortments of garbage and children’s belongings. One of the bodies is an elderly woman.

Hallorann looks tense, and a bit fearful “Grandma”

“He's coming, Dickie. Get out of here. Now!”

Dick  gasps and whimpers, grabbing my hand and running to the exit. He starts trying to open the locked door. I bring myself back to reality, and I see him opening the door to the helicopter.

I grab his shirt, pulling him away “Wake up!”

Leroy runs over, helping me pull Dick away from the open door.

“Hallorann! Step back, Hallorann!”

I groan, pushing him to the ground. I end up landing on top of him. I grab his face with both hands, and I feel my voice echo a bit “Wake up!”

Hallorann shakes his head as he starts coming out of it “No! No!”

I look at him, gently patting his face “Hey, hey! You’re okay! It’s okay”

He breathes heavily, his eyes wide with fear.

Pauly looks at us “You all in?”

Leroy holds up a thumb, letting Pauly close the door.

I get off of Dick, Leroy and I helping him up. We all sit down, Dick still looking horrified.

When we finally land on the ground, I put my shoes back on, fixing my skirt as we get taken to the infirmary. I hear the conversation between Dick and Francis, even though I’m a good ten feet away.

“How you holding up, soldier?”

“I feel fine, sir”

“So... you saw it”

“More like it saw me”

“What was it like?”

“Cold” He breathes deeply.

“You did good up there today”

“If there's anything we can do to make your time here a little easier, you let me know”

“Now that you mention it…”

“That was quick”

“Me and my pals on base, it's kind of hard to find a place to blow off steam. If you can see fit to find us someplace that... maybe it don't rain in on our heads, I know the boys would be grateful”

“Understood. I'll see what I can do”

“Sir.  It wasn't supposed to see us.  It wasn't supposed to know. I got a feeling we keep on like we're doing, something bad is coming. Maybe we oughta just let this thing be”

“Rest up”

Dick glances at me before speaking “Sir, might I ask something?”

“What’s on your mind?”

“Permission to walk Miss Frost back to town? Make sure she gets home safe?”

Francis glances at me and nods “Alright. Permission granted”

“Thank you, sir”

Francis walks away. Dick stands up, then walks over to me. I smile softly “You doing alright there?”

He nods “I’m doing better. Mind if I walk you home?”

I nod “I wouldn’t mind at all”

We begin walking back into town, a bit of small talk between the two of us.

He smiles, looking at me “Where’s the wildest place you’ve ever been?”

I think for a moment “I don’t actually remember. I’ve been in Derry so long, I can’t remember what other towns are like”

He looks confused “What do you mean? Can’t you just drive outta town? Take a vacation from the chaos of children?”

I chuckle softly “Sometimes, I think about it. But…I can’t. I can’t leave Derry”

He stays silent for a moment “Why not?”

I shrug “Don’t know. I’ve been stuck in Derry since ‘08. Since…” I trail off a bit, remembering that night.

Dick gently grabs my hand, and I smile softly. He nods “You and that thing. You’re connected, in some messed up way”

I nod “I watched It kill a friend of mine, then it attacked me. Well, only after I bit its hand”

He tries not to laugh “You bit some creature’s hand?”

I chuckle “Yeah. Now, it won’t let me leave Derry. At least not very far. Tried to stab it a couple of times”

Dick chuckles “You are one hell of a woman”

I smile “Why thank you”

We end up in front of my house, 29 Neibolt Street. I smile softly “This is my stop”

Dick nods softly, smiling a bit “Well, it was a pleasure to chat with you, Lily”

I smile “You, too, Dick” I reach up and kiss his cheek.

He opens my gate, letting me in. He shuts the gate behind me, his smile growing “You have a good night, Miss Frost”

I chuckle “And you have a good night yourself, Mr. Hallorann” I head inside, a small blush on my cheeks.

The next day, after school, I’m sitting on a bench near the old Standpipe, reading a book. As I read, I hear several footsteps. Children’s footsteps. I look to see Lilly, Ronnie, Will and Rich. I stand up, smiling “Hey, kids. What’s going on?”

They walk closer, Lilly looking scared and hopeful “Miss Frost, Mrs. Kersh told me to talk with you. About what’s happening in town”

I freeze, looking at them “She told you to talk to me? Why?”

Rich shrugs “Probably because you’ve been around for a long time”

The kids give him a look as I chuckle softly “Alright, what is it you guys want to know?”

Lilly takes a breath “What do you know about the kids disappearing?”

I raise a brow “Why?”

The kids all exchange a glance before looking at me.

Will speaks up, a bit quieter “We went to the cemetery last night to try and get pictures of the thing that killed the other kids. It keeps showing up, looking like people we know. Things we’re scared of”

I nod softly, then I smile “I do know about what’s going on. And my advice to you kids? Stop looking”

Ronnie steps forward “We can’t. The adults don’t believe us. The police are going to put my dad in Shawshank. Please, can you help us? Tell the police what you know?”

I chuckle softly, shaking my head “They won’t believe me, either. I am well known in town, but everyone knows about my odd personality. My hobbies. They don’t lock me up in Juniper Hill, only because I help out the town”

Rich looks confused “What hobbies?”

I hold up my necklace “Witchcraft” The kid’s eyes widen, backing up as I chuckle “Oh, relax. I don’t cast evil spells or place curses. I connect with nature”

That makes the kids relax as I stand up, walking over “Look. I know I can’t stop you from trying to figure things out. But I want you all to be smart about your search, okay? Think things clearly and carefully” I carefully place a kiss on each child’s forehead. I look at them “Why don’t you all head on home, alright? Try to relax and breathe”

They all nod and leave, heading up into the Standpipe. I sit back down, reading my book. The wind blows, making me look up. In front of me, I see a red balloon floating toward the town. I tense up, reaching up and gently grabbing my necklace.

I put my book away, beginning to walk back home.

A few days later, I’m reading a book on my couch, when I hear a knock on the front door. I get up walking to the door. I open it, seeing Dick, Leroy and Pauly standing on my porch, wearing tactical gear.

I raise a brow “Afternoon, gentlemen. What can I do for you?” I see the four other soldiers and a young indigenous man that I recognize “And the rest of your group?”

Leroy nods “Afternoon, Miss Frost. Uh, mind if we come in?”

I hesitate, then open the door wider “After you”

They walk in, and I shut the door behind them. I cross my arms, looking at the soldiers “Now. Does someone want to explain to me why you all came to my house, armed to the teeth?”

The colonel steps forward “We were given orders to go down into the sewer system to retrieve items connected to the entity”

I stare at him, then I sigh softly. Suddenly, every door and window slams shut, locking and trapping the men in my house. The soldiers tense up, gripping their guns.

I look at Taniel, switching to the native language of the indigenous people “They're looking for the pillars?”

He nods “I didn’t want to tell them, but they went into my mind”

I step closer, placing a hand on his shoulder “Are you alright?”

He nods, and the colonel looks at me “Speak english”

I glare “Motherfucker, this is my house. I can speak whatever language I damn well please. You want to find those pillars, you need my help to get to them. Why do you want to find them, anyway?”

The colonel straightens up “The plan is to find the pillars, then contain the entity to a smaller cage”

I raise a brow “Really? And you had to rip the location out of this poor boys head because…?”

Dick clears his throat, looking away a bit “Not something I wanted to do”

I sigh softly “Fine” I look at Taniel “Be careful down there. If your aunt finds out you got hurt down there, she’ll kick my ass”

He tries to hold back a laugh, nodding “I’ll be careful. Promise”

I nod, hugging him a bit. I look at the others “I will let you down to the well. Just be careful. The entity is a lot stronger than you think. It will drive itself into your mind and use your fears against you” I look at Leroy “I don’t want to have to explain to your family that I let you get yourself killed”

He holds up his hands “It wouldn’t be your fault. We’ll be careful. Promise”

I nod softly “Alright” The doors and windows unlock. I start walking toward the basement “Follow me, gentlemen”

We go to the basement, and I stand next to the well “This is your way down”

The soldiers get their equipment and start heading down the well. I stand next to Dick, looking up at him.

He smiles softly, then lowers his voice “I’ll be alright”

“You don’t know that”

He chuckles softly “Well, how about when I come back, I take you out. Maybe dancing?”

I smile “I’d like that”

He kisses my cheek before making his way down the well.

I walk back upstairs, pouring water into the kettle to make tea.

Suddenly, I freeze, my vision shifting and changing. It’s similar to when I saw what Dick was seeing with his gift.

I see the soldiers trudging through the murky sewage water.

Taniel leads the group through the tunnels “This way”

Another soldier glances towards Dick “Can you feel it?”

“I feel something”

As they walk, cautious of what may be down there, a eery whisper sounds out “Dick”

Dick stops, looking behind him quickly “Y’all hear that?”

A soldier looks at him “Hear what?”

They continue walking until Taniel falls off a drop, the water about waist high.

“Taniel! Are you alright?”

He grunts “Yeah. Big drop” he grunts as he gets up.

One soldier, Colonel Fuller, jumps down with Leroy and Pauly, walking ahead.

More whispers are heard by Dick. When he tries to jump down, he disappears completely in the water. The two soldiers behind him start freaking out, unable to find him. I feel Dick has been pulled into a hallucination, but it’s far worse for Dick than it would be for anyone else.

The soldiers suddenly get attacked by a zombified Uncle Sam, who comes out and attacks them.

My vision shifts, allowing me to see the group of kids, plus Marge, who recently got out of the hospital after she cut out one of her own eyes, and what appears to be Matty. I know better. I can see it’s not Matty. I watched his death, smelled his blood.

Before the kids go into the sewers, Lilly takes out a thing of pills.

“We should all take three. That should be enough”

The kids each take three pills, Marge making a face “It’s kinda bitter”

“Better than getting eaten”

Ronnie looks at Matty “Okay. Lead the way”

Matty leads the kids into the sewer.

My vision shifts back to the soldiers. I see Taniel take a chance to run away, but Fuller shoots at him, causing Taniel to drop the dagger as he escapes.

My vision continues to flip back and forth between the different groups.

When I see the kids, I see them completely out of it, high as a damn kite as they trudge through the sewer.

I see Leroy see a hallucination of Charlotte, then shoots it before it disappears.

Back with the kids, they get to a dead end, where a large pole sits on a large stone platform.

“It looks like a dead end”

“I…I…I could’ve sworn it was right…”

In the distance, they hear Fuller yell for Dick “Hallorann!”

They look toward the voices “You hear that?”

“Hallorann!”

“Voices”

“There’s someone else down here”

Matty climbs up the steps, looking at the tunnel behind the pole.

Marge breathes heavily, backing up “We should go back”

She bumps into something, making the water burble.

The kids start screaming as they see the body float up. Matty grabs the pole, looking on.

“Oh my God!”

“It's Susie. Oh my God”

They see another body that floats up, causing more screaming.

“Teddy!”

Another body floats to the surface.

“Oh my God!”

“Is that Phil?”

“He's dead!”

Matty starts singing, slowly spinning around the pole.

♪ All of the tunnels ♪

♪ Go underground ♪

♪ Where none of the children ♪

♪ Will ever be found ♪

Lilly backs up, tripping over the body of Matty, as the fake Matty starts cracking and tearing, continuing to sing as he shifts and changes, spinning faster.

♪ They wandered away ♪

♪ To join the show ♪

♪ And lost their way ♪

♪ In the world below ♪

Lilly gasps and screams at the sight of the body

 ♪ They swallowed the pills ♪

♪ And they lost their fear ♪

♪ But nothing they hoped ♪

♪ To find was here ♪

Ronnie’s eyes widen “That's Matty!”

♪ They joined the circus ♪

♪ And left their town ♪

♪ Now they live here ♪

♪ Down with the clown ♪

♪ Down with the clown ♪

Matty’s voice begins to change to Pennywise’s as he finishes shifting back to his clown form.

 ♪ With the clown ♪

♪ Down here with the clown ♪

♪ Now they live down here ♪

♪ With the clown! ♪

Marge screams as Pennywise grins sinisterly “Duck and cover, kiddos”

The kids all scream and begin running as Pennywise roars, jumping down into the water. The kids run and scream, trying to get away from Pennywise as fast as possible.

Lilly gasps and trips. She looks after the others “Guys, wait up!”

She gets separated from the group, and the group runs into Leroy and Pauly. Leroy believes the kids, his son, are hallucinations. Pauly, seeing the same thing, tries to stop Leroy, but instead gets shot. Pauly dies in Leroy's arms, tears in his eyes.

The sad moment is interrupted by Pennywise's chuckling in the distance. Leroy yells for the kids to get out, carrying Pauly as he follows after them.

My vision shifts to Lily, who is alone and terrified.

“Guys! Ronnie, Marge! Can anyone hear me?” she sobs until she hears a faint tinkling hum.

She turns around to see Pennywise, his chuckling echoing across the stone walls.

The darkness keeps it so Lilly can’t see him “Too bad. So sad. You couldn't save ol' Matty-boy. Tasty, tasty Matty-boy” He chuckles menacingly “You convinced everyone to come and see me” More chuckling “'Cause you're such a good friend” He changes to look like the messed up version of Lilly’s father “But such a bad daughter!”

He cackles, then suddenly stops.

Lilly whimpers as Pennywise growls. He roars, charging at Lilly with his rows of sharp teeth

He suddenly stops, his jaw popping

Lilly whimpers, looking at Pennywise. She looks down, seeing the dagger glowing between the two.

Pennywise grunts and growls, glaring as bones crunch while he backs away into the darkness.

Lilly picks up the dagger, her hands shaking.

My vision snaps back to reality, my tea kettle whistling loudly. I quickly take it off the stove, the whistling dying down. 

I pour myself the tea, moving and sitting down. There is chaos, heartbreak and fear throughout. Everything is building up to the next big event. Right before he goes back to sleep, completing another cycle.

Two days have passed since the sewer adventure. Lilly is starting to take a mental toll while holding on to the dagger, Ronnie hasn’t been at school and the other three are trying to figure out what to do.

I haven’t heard from Dick yet, but Leroy called me. He let me know about Pauly’s death and that Dick hadn’t come back to base yet.

In my classroom, I sit grading papers when I hear a knock on my door. I look up to see Will, looking a bit cautious.

“Hello, Will. What can I do for you?”

He walks in, closing the door behind him. He walks over, lowering his voice “Can you help us?”

I sigh softly “Will, I can’t do anything other than give advice. The clown--”

“No, no, no. Not about him. About Ronnie's dad”

I raise a brow “What do you mean?” He seems hesitant “Hey. You can trust me. I know he’s innocent, just as much as you do”

He nods softly “My Mom is gonna try and get him out of town, but I was thinking maybe you can help us a bit. You’ve been around in Derry for so long, you’ve got to know ideas of how we can sneak him and Ronnie out”

I hesitate, then nod “I’ll help out. He deserves freedom”

He smiles “Thanks, Miss Frost. My mom took him to The Black Spot. A hangout club for the airmen. We can show you the way”

I shake my head “It’s alright. I can figure it out. Like you said. I’ve been here a long time”

After school, I head home, getting changed into something a bit more comfortable and flowing. A skin tight purple dress, a black sheer shawl, my black high heels, and several pieces of jewelry, with my hair and makeup done nicely.

The sun is starting to set, so I make my way to the Black Spot, a hang out that Dick and the other colored airmen cleaned up. Once I’m there, I see people already there, heading inside and getting ready for a larger party of sorts. I head inside, Rich and Marge looking at me.

Their eyes widen “Whoa”

Rich looks at Marge “I didn’t know she could dress like that”

I chuckle, walking over. I lower my voice “Have you kids talked to Ronnie, yet?”

They shake their heads “Will’s talking to her and her dad”

I nod “Alright. Let me know if you or they need me, okay?”

They nod as I walk towards the bar. One of the soldiers looks at me, smiling “You must be Miss Lily Frost. We heard all about you from Hallorann”

I chuckle “All good things, I hope”

He chuckles “Very. What can I get for you, ma’am?”

I shake my head “Nothing for now. Do you know where Hallorann is?”

He shakes his head “He was at base last I saw him. Hoping he’ll be here”

I nod “Thank you…”

He holds out a hand “Jacobs, Ma’am”

I smile, shaking his hand “Pleasure to meet you Mr. Jacobs”

The place begins to fill with people, lively music playing, laughter filling the building. I smile, set my wrap aside, dancing and gliding around the dance floor.

“Lily, that you?”

I turn and see a very disorientated Dick, sweat making his skin shine. I smile, walking closer. He takes a small step back, but I hold up my hands “It’s okay. It’s alright. I promise” I hold out my hand “Just take my hand. It’ll be alright”

He carefully takes my hand, and he suddenly seems to focus again. He takes a breath, looking around before his eyes land on me “How’d you do that?”

I smile “I know what you’re going through. Something I’ve gone through myself. I saw you needed help. I can feel it. As long as you’re holding my hand, it’ll be silent. I can’t keep them away from good, but for tonight, lets have a bit of fun”

He smiles, holding my hand tighter “You are a little angel, you know that?”

I chuckle “Not an angel. Just a woman who wants to dance with a handsome man” I pull him onto the dance floor. Not letting go of my hand once, we dance and glide, laughing and enjoying the night. He places his hand on my waist, my hand on his shoulder while our other hands are fastened together.

I see Rich go up and start playing the drums, having the time of his life.

I smile, and I place a hand on Dick’s face. I gently pull him down, kissing his lips. He deepens the kiss, pulling me closer.

Suddenly, men in halloween masks barge in, shotguns in hands, aimed at us all. Everyone stops dancing, looking at the unexpected trespassers.

“Excuse the interruption, folks” patrons scream as the guns click “ Now…I’m gonna make this real simple. Give us what we want, we go away”

One of the men looks at a white woman in the crowd.

“Norma? Norma Price? Norma Price? You should be ashamed. Go home. Now! Go on” she quickly leaves.

One of the soldiers, Reggie, speaks up “What do you want?”

The leader, who I can tell is Clint Bowers, speaks up “Hank Grogan. We know he's hiding here somewhere. You hand him over, and you can get back to your party”

Dіck steps forward, keeping me behind him, letting go of my hand “Oh, no, no, no. Seems you fellas got some bad information. See, this here, it's just a rec facility for military personnel only”

“Well, then you won't mind if we have a quick look around?”

“Say we do”

The other man, who I can tell is Stan Kersh, aims his gun “We’re not asking”

There’s a tense silence before Hank walks into the crowd, hands raised “Look, I’m here”

Ronnie cries out for her father “Daddy, no!”

“Baby girl. Baby”

“No! No!”

Will holds Ronnie back as Hank walks closer to the front “Look, I don't want no bloodshed over me! I'll go. Just leave these good people alone”

“You're doing the right thing”

Another soldier holds him back, shaking his head “I don't think so”

“Now, there's no need for this to get messy, son” Clint goes to pull his gun, but several other soldiers pull out their guns, ready to shoot.

“Now, would you look at that? We got guns too. Ours just happen to be government issue”

“I suggest you fellas leave. Ain't nobody getting strung up today”

There’s tense silence for a moment, until I step forward.

Dick gently grabs my arm, whispering urgently “Bad idea. Bad idea”

I pat his hand, nodding softly. He hesitates, but nods and lets go.

I step between the two groups of raised guns, facing the men in masks. I smile sweetly “Gentlemen. You all know me, and I know all of you. Mask or no mask, I see each and every one of you. I am giving you all one chance. Lower your guns, leave this place and these people, including the innocent man you want to string up, and be on your merry ways” My smile fades “Because if you don’t, I will make all your lives a pure, living HELL!”

The lights flicker, and Dick steps behind me, placing a hand on my back. He lowers his voice “Easy, now”

The group quickly steps backward, not used to me being like this.

I smile sweetly again “Have I made myself clear, gentlemen?”

Clint stares at me, then raises his hands “Put 'em down, boys. Put 'em down. Put 'em down” guns rattling “He's right. This isn't the way. ‘Sides, wouldn’t wanna piss her off any more than we have. Everybody out. Come on”

They all leave, and the patrons start murmuring.

Dick looks at Hank “What are we supposed to do with you now? You know they're coming back”

“We got a truck out back. Get him there, sneak him out”

We suddenly hear chains rattling against the door. One of the soldiers goes over, trying to open the door. He groans as the patrons exclaim.

“Fuck. They chained it shut”

Dick looks at him “Is there another way out?”

“Check the back. Check the back! Women and kids in the middle of the room now!”

“Hey, call the guys on base. I'll check the phones”

“No, phone's not working. Something's wrong with it”

The lights go out, making people panic more.

“Stay calm. Stay calm”

Overlapping chatter is heard throughout the room, and I can smell the fear growing stronger. I tense up, and I see Rich slowly walking toward the window. I walk towards him as the soldiers keep trying to figure things out.

“Stay alert. Stay alert”

“Take care of yourselves, fellas”

“Do it!”

Dick looks around “Something's going on”

My eyes widen as I hear a lighter click and guns cocking back

“Stay calm”

I pull Rich to the ground “Watch out!”

A gunshot rings out, patrons screaming as they clamor to get out of view of the windows.

A molotov cocktail gets thrown in through the window, catching a woman on fire.

More cocktails are thrown and more gunshots are fired back and forth. I usher the kids to the center of the room, trying to keep them away from the fire. I turn to try and help others get out of the view of shots, when I feel a sudden pain in my right shoulder. I got shot, getting knocked to the ground.

I yell out, grabbing my shoulder, which is now bleeding profusely.

The kids are screaming as I push myself to stand “Come on! We gotta get out of here!”

We end up getting separated, the ends of my dress catching on fire. Blood pours down my arm and dress.

I end up in the middle of the room, and I turn to see Pennywise walking over, acting as if he’s going to help another woman up, but instead begins eating her face.

He looks at me, smiling “Little witch” He drops the body, standing up and walking over to me.

I back up “You stay the hell away from me” He appears in front of me, wrapping a hand around my waist and pulling me to his chest.

He grins, then grabs my hand. He begins to spin and dance with me, the fire roaring around us, the smell of fear and burning flesh in the air. He reaches over and bites the space between my throat and my right shoulder, blood pouring down as I whimper.

He lets go, then places a bloody hand over my face. I close my eyes, feeling the blood rest on my face.

I hear him chuckling as he dips me back, hand still on my face “Hello Dicky”

I open my eyes, seeing between Pennywise’s fingers. He moves his hand, a bloody handprint across my face. Tears escape, falling down my face as I look at Dick and Ronnie.

My voice comes out in a whisper “Run…”

Dick and Ronnie stare in horror as Pennywise pulls me back up, turning me and pulling me to his chest.

Pennywise grins “What's the matter? Seeing things? Oh, I think they see you too” He starts cackling menacingly.

Dick gasps as dead spirits move from behind Pennywise.

“Run!”

Dick manages to pull Ronnie away, and Pennywise tilts my head up, making me look at him. He grins, his hand resting on my throat “I’ll be going to sleep. Goodbye for now, little witch”

He lets go, disappearing into the flames.

I shake my head, then I turn and look around. I see the shapes of Rich and Marge trying to get out. I start making my way toward them, but someone grabs my arm.

I turn to see Dick, breathing heavily “You need to get out of here!”

I shake my head “Not yet!”

He nods and we run towards the kids. I get to them, grabbing their arms “Come on! We gotta--”

Suddenly, the wooden pillars fall down, blocking our path out. I block the kids from the flames, the kids coughing.

Rich looks around “Marge, come help me. Come on, help me. Help me!”

They pant as they go over and open a box.

Rich looks at Marge “Let's get in here. It's the only way we're gonna make it out”

Marge exhales heavily “It's too small”

“There's plenty of room. The roof is gonna fall! Come on, Marge!”

“Okay, okay” Marge climbs in, but she notices something “There's not enough room for both…” Rich stares at her and she starts sobbing “No!” She tries to get out, but Rich pushes her back in.

“Marge-- Marge, stop!”

“No, Rich! Please, no!”

Rich closes the door, then climbs on top of the box, keeping Marge safe inside. Marge starts banging on the box.

“Let me out! Please!”

“Marge, listen to me!”

“Let me out!”

“Marge!” I hear the two sobbing, tears running down my cheeks.

“Let me out!”

Rich starts panting “Remember what you said? About knights?” He coughs. I walk closer, the flames spreading around us.

“What?”

“Knights. Who sleep with something by the bed?”

“Ye-- Yeah”

“Well, we don't just pee in pots” He coughs “We also protect fair maidens” Marge sobs shakily “Remember the day, that day all the guinea pigs got loose in the hallway 'cause Robbie Mueller, he broke into the science lab? That was my first week of school, and everyone went out to see it. You came out of class with a yellow sweater and a gray skirt with a string tied to your finger” He coughs as his voice breaks “You remember that? You were so pretty” He breathes deeply “I remember wondering, ‘¿Quién es esa?’ And you saw me staring and you said, ‘Take a picture, it'll last longer.’ You didn't say it mean or anything. I didn't even know what it meant” More coughing “Later when I figured it out, I remember thinking what I should have said back. ‘I wish I could’”

Marge’s voice is harsh, raspy from her sobs “I love you, Rich”

Rich coughs, tears down his cheeks “I love you too, Marge”

I walk over as Rich carefully slides off the box, moving to sit down against the box . I walk over and sit with him, wrapping my arm around him, holding him close.

I take a shaky breath, blood still pouring from my wounds “It’s okay. It’ll be okay. I’m here”

He rests his head against me “Thanks, Miss Frost”

I smile softly “Of course, Rich. I’ve got you”

I hold him, his arms laying limp in his lap. I cry silently, holding Rich as he dies in my arms.

Eventually, the fire dies out and firefighters arrive, putting out what fire is left. They break their way into the room, and I hear Marge’s muffled voice from in the box “Help! Help!”

The firefighter opens the box, helping Marge out.

“Hey, hey. Are you okay? Come on, dear. Are you alright? Come on, careful. Watch your step”

Marge walks over, covered in soot, and she sees me holding Rich’s corpse. She sobs as she kneels down, wrapping her arms around Rich. Ronnie comes over as well, and she starts sobbing as well. She comes over, then Will, the four of us holding Rich.

We all get taken outside where the ambulances are waiting, the morning light covered by a light layer of gray fog. I get sat down, a paramedic bandaging up my bullet wound and the bite mark. He raises a brow at the bite, but says nothing. I look up to see Leroy walking with Fuller. I stand up, ignoring the paramedic.

I follow them, seeing Dick sitting on a bench, rocking back and forth.

Leroy crouches down in front of Dick, making him gasp “It's okay. It's okay. It's just me. It's okay. It's all right”

Dick pants, clearly out of it “Leroy?”

“It's all right. Yeah. Yes”

“Leroy?”

“You all right?”

“No. No. Uh, I had to talk to one of 'em. I had to. The noise. The noise. The noise”

I walk over slowly, Leroy looking at me “Miss Frost”

Dick’s head snaps up, looking at me “Lily”

I walk over, crouching in front of him “Hey”

He reaches out, placing a hand on my cheek “You alright?”

I nod “A bite and a bullet’s not gonna keep me down” I carefully reach my hands up, placing them on his face “Let me see”

He takes a breath and suddenly, I see all the spirits surrounding Dick. All of them died in the fire. I stare at them “Stay. Back”

They all look at me, and I nod softly “We’ll make this right”

They nod, backing up. I look at Dick “I can only keep them back for so long”

He rests his head against mine “Thanks. They were getting loud”

I nod “A small break is all I can give”

He nods, looking at me “You should go get some rest. Head on home”

I look at Leroy “You’ll help keep an eye on him?”

He nods “Yes, ma’am”

I nod “Good” I kiss Dick’s forehead, standing up “Give me a call sometime, alright?” I smile softly.

He smiles back “No problem”

I nod to the soldiers before I walk back to the other vehicles. I make my way back home, a mixture of different emotions flowing through my blood.

Inside, I clean up, changing into fresh clothes. My dress is almost an underdress or a night dress, but I don't care.

As I wash my face of soot, I suddenly feel something. Intense. Powerful. One of the pillars has been destroyed. I breathe heavily as I look in the mirror. My eyes seem to be glowing, the usual purple mixing with a bright yellow. The same color as Pennywise’s eyes. It's free.

“Oh, fuck”

I glare, punching the mirror, glass shattering and blood pouring from my skin “Fuck!”

I quickly rush outside, panic flooding through me “Shit, shit, shit!” I begin running down the road, barefoot with a dense fog rolling into town behind me. Everyone in the street stops and stares at the fog, ignoring me. I keep running, the fog moving past me. Snow begins falling around me. I need to figure out what to do. I realize who could have some idea of how to help.

I keep running, my feet numb on the frozen ground, and my mind in a haze. I make it outside of town, to a farm with sheep roaming free. I rush up to the door, one hand gripping the door frame while the other bangs on the door.

I breathe shakily as the door opens. Rose’s eyes widen “Lily. Dear god, what happened to you?”

I shake my head “It’s free. It’s free. It’s trying to leave”

She carefully pulls me in, shutting the door behind me “Come on. Let’s get you seated” She looks back “Taniel”

She has me sit down, and I look at my hands, shaking. She sits across from me “Tell me. What do you see? What do you feel?”

I take a shaky breath “I-I-I keep seeing its…memories? I think? I don’t know. Everything feels…wrong”

Taniel walks over, carrying a blanket and the first aid kit. Rose takes my injured hand as Taniel places the blanket around my shoulders.

I hear footsteps, making me look up to see Charlotte and Hank walk into the room. Charlotte walks over “Miss Frost. What are you doing here?”

Rose carefully pulls glass out of my knuckles, giving me a look “How’d this happen?”

I look at her “I punched my bathroom mirror”

Hank looks confused “Why would you do that?”

“Because I’m angry, Hank. The thing that plagues this town, the thing that killed those kids. It’s about to be free to cause havoc and fear throughout the whole country” I look at Rose “We need to figure out how to stop it.

Rose cleans my wounds “You aren’t stopping anything yet”

I stand up, groaning “I’m fine, Rose. We don’t have time to waste. We need to figure out how to keep this thing from essentially destroying the country!”

I suddenly feel my vision shift. I see a trail of floating kids, all of them comatose. At the front of the line, Pennywise drives his wagon while playing a tuba.

I hear the screams and cries of the children, all of them trapped inside their own minds.

I gasp, my vision returning to normal. I hold myself up, hands pressed against the window sill as I breathe heavily.

Rose steps closer “What did you see?”

I shake my head “It took the kids. So many of them. He was playing a fucking tuba. Piece of shit doesn’t take anything seriously”

I look out the window, seeing a car pull up. I watch Leroy get out, helping Dick toward the door “You have company”

Rose goes to the door, opening it and letting the two men in. Rose looks at me, nodding for me to come over. Dick sits in a chair and I sit next to him. I can see that his mind isn’t focused, the voices becoming almost too much.

I carefully reach a hand over, and he grabs it. He leans over, resting his head on my shoulder as he grips my hand. I kiss the top of his head, placing my other hand over ours.

Suddenly, Charlotte starts yelling at Leroy.

“What?” She hits him “What?!” She sobs as she keeps hitting him “You said we’d be safe here! You said we’d be safe here. You said…” She continues sobbing.

“I’m sorry”

“You lied to me, Leroy. You’re a liar!”

“I know. I’mma get him--I know. I’m sorry. But, Charlotte, listen to me. I’m gonna get him back”

“Bullshit!”

“I swear to God I will get Will back. I will get Will back”

“My baby”

“Dick--Dick is gonna help us”

“How is he gonna help us? How are you gonna help us? Now, how are you going to help us?”

“Listen, listen to me. Listen. He said the bond between mother and son is the strongest in this world. The strongest. So if you can just-just connect, just-just connect for a second”

Rose walks in “It won’t matter”

“Excuse me?”

“Even if he locates your son, you won’t stand a chance against this creature. You do realize that”

“What are we supposed to do? Just give up on our boy?”

“Of course not. But if Mr. Hallorann could do for us what he did for your general, there may be a way to stop this thing and save your son”

“How?”

“By using his ability to find one last artifact”

Taniel steps forward “The dagger”

“What dagger?”

Rose explains what the dagger is as she gets out a map. Dick and I stand up, while he holds me close.

Leroy looks at her “So if this dagger is made of the same rock, we can use it to replace a pillar and relock the cage”

“Exactly. And, hopefully, save your son. If Mr. Hallorann can find it before the creature reaches this point” She circles a spot on the map “On the southern bank of the river, there’s a great pine. A deadwood that has stood there since before even our ancestors. It’s the furthest point that the daggers energy can still connect with the other pillars and restore the cage”

Hank nods “Yeah, that’s the southern bank. That’s the shortest route across the river, probably where that thing would try to cross it”

“How do we connect the daggers energy to the other pillars?”

“The earth is a conductor. The dagger needs to be buried just as the other pillars were. It’s our only hope”

Dick speaks up, shaking his head “You’re a bunch of goddamn fools” He looks at the group “I can barely hear myself think, and now y'all expecting me to find you’re little dagger? Only thing helping right now is her” He nods at me.

Rose walks over “I can help you quiet the voices in your head, Mr. Hallorann. But you’re going to have to trust me”

I look at her, understanding what she means “Maturin?”

She nods. Dick looks at me, and I nod “You can trust her”

He nods, then looks at Rose “How?”

 Rose gets the root she needs and begins grinding it into a powder. Dick sits in a chair in the living room, while I hold his hand. She puts the crushed root into a wooden cup, then adds hot water “You need to be connected to the dagger’s energy. This is Maturin Root. It will connect you to all things in the realm this evil came from. But not all things there are evil”

Dick looks at her “This tea is gonna shut all these voices up?”

Rose nods “When one door in the mind opens, another must close”

Dick grips my hand as he drinks the tea. Leroy looks at Rose “How long is it gonna take?”

“Not long” She looks at Dick “Remember this. Whatever you do, do not go…”

I suddenly feel Dick focus in on the dagger’s energy. Dick lets go of my hand, shaking and groaning.

He groans in pain. I reach a hand to his shoulder, but the veins in my hand start glowing the same yellow as all those years ago. I pull my hand back, the glow going away. Dick gasps and groans.

Rose holds up a hand “Stay with it, Mr. Hallorann. Stay with it”

“Ah! The dagger!” He grunts “I see it”

“Where? Where is it?”

Dick pants sweat shining on his screen “Will’s friends. Will’s friends”

Hank tenses up “What? Ronnie?”

“The girls. They…they have it”

“Ronnie, my ba--my baby, Ronnie?”

“They’re fighting over it. They’re going after…they’re going after Will”

Rose looks at us “He’ll help us find him, but we’ve gotta go now!” She looks at me “Can you run?”

I nod “Hurry, Rose”

She nods as I start sprinting out of the house. I begin running toward the southern bank of the river. Where It will be. I run as fast as I can until I get to the river.  I see a large trail of kids, floating in a line. I slow down a bit, finding the circus cart. I look at the kids, seeing Will is at the front.

“Miss Frost?”

I look over, seeing the girls running toward me “Girls!”

They rush over, hugging me. I hug them back “Thank the gods you kids are alright. I found Will” I look up, the girls looking with me “Will! Oh, Will!”

“Try to pull him down”

The girls jump and try to grab at Will, and I feel its presence. I face the wagon, tense “Girls”

They stop as the stairs fall down. The door opens, blood flooding out and Pennywise giggling.

“Look who decided to join the circus!” He emerges, blood completlystaining him from the nose down. I hold my arms up, keeping the girls behind me. He chuckles menacingly “Ooh! The fool!” He honks a horn “The freak!” He honks twice “The failure!” He honks it again before tossing it “But who is who?” He sighs “It doesn’t matter. There’s a spot for you all!”

He growls, and I grab the dagger from Marge, pointing it at him, the girls whimpering.

I glare, my hands shaking as the dagger glows. My veins begin to glow the bright yellow color. Pennywise looks at my hands, then grins. He backs away into the fog, laughing menacingly.

I hiss in pain “Ronnie” She takes the dagger, holding it out at where Pennywise was. I look at the girls “Stay close”

Pennywise cackles as he runs behind us, making us turn to face where he was. He continues running around his, the girls crying and screaming.

“Where is he?”

He keeps growling and laughing.

“Where is he?!”

A hand reaches out, grabbing Marge's ankle and dragging her into the fog as she screams. My eyes widen “Marge!”

The girls scream and hold each other “Lilly! Stay close!”

“Where did she go?!”

I take a breath, and I use my vision to find Marge.

 I see Pennywise in front of Marge. Pennywise giggles eerily “Hmm. Oh, I've always wondered how you'd taste, Margaret Tozier”

Marge screams and sobs “Tozier?”

“Oh, but not yet. You're not Tozier yet. First comes love, then comes marriage, then comes Richie in the baby carriage!” Pennywise laughs, then stops a bit “Unless... Unless he dies with you!” He laughs again as Marge backs up.

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

Pennywise pulls out a missing poster of a boy who looks a lot like Marge “Your son! Don't you recognize your little boy?” He cackles, crumbling the paper “The seed of your stinking lоіns and his filthy friends bring me my death!” He throws the paper at Marge’s face. Marge groans, sobs “Or is it birth? I get confused. Tomorrow? Yesterday? It's all the same for Little Pennywise” He laughs, but I see tears in his eyes, a single tear falling down his cheek. I tense up. I’ve never seen him…cry before “But it's not always easy. No. Being caged up in one place, one time” He growls, bells jingle “They can't fence me in. Not them! And not you” He sneers “Beep-beep, Margie” He roars, his jaw opening to bite at her, his rows of teeth ready to eat as Marge screams, but suddenly he freezes in place.

I breathe shakily “Marge. Marge!”

She runs over, the girls hugging her.

“Marge!”

“What happened?”

“I don't know”

Suddenly, all of the kids drop to the ground. They all begin waking up. The girls rush over to Will “Will! Will!”

“You’re alive!”

He looks at them “What happened?”

“Are you okay?”

The kids hug as the other kids groan, sitting and standing up.

Headlights get brighter as they approach us. I stand in front of the kids, my hands up “Taniel, stop!”

The car hits the brakes, stopping less than a foot away from me.

Hank, Leroy and Taniel get out of the car.

“Will! Son!”

“Dad? Dad!”

“Ronnie!”

“Dad! Daddy!”

Taniel and I look at the kids “To the North shore! Let’s go! Wake up, wake up! To the north shore!”

I help guide the kids “Come on, everyone. Quickly now. Go, go, go”

Leroy looks at the kids as they head to the van “Where’s the dagger? Where’s the dagger?”

Ronnie hands it to him “It’s here”

I walk over to Leroy, the dagger pulsating loudly. Taniel walks over, Leroy handing the dagger to him.

“Deadwood’s that way, yeah? On the southbank. Rose said the dagger’s gonna try to resist. We’re going together”

I nod “I’m coming, too”

Taniel tries to speak, but I give him a look. He nods, and we all start running toward the deadwood.

We pause for a moment, seeing the tree in the distance before we keep running.

Suddenly, gun shots ring out. Leroy gets hit in the leg. Taniel gets hit in the neck. I feel a bullet hit my cheek, knocking me to the ground.

I hear the van doors open, the kids running toward us. I hear more gunshots, the others hiding behind the van. I shakily push myself up, looking over. Taniel is groaning as blood seeps from his neck.

“Taniel” I quickly crawl over to him, slipping in my own blood. Leroy crawls over, placing a hand over the wound.

“Stay still. Tan-Taniel. Look at me. Taniel. Taniel. Breathe. Breathe”

I place a hand on his chest, tears in my eyes as he looks at me. He’s scared.

I shush him gently “It’s-it’s okay, sweetheart. I’m right here”

His eyes flutter shut as his head lolls to the side.

Leroy tries to get his attention “Taniel. Taniel? Taniel?”

I shake my head softly. Leroy shakes his head a bit “Sh-fuck” He looks at my cheek “Fuck, Lily. Your face”

I carefully reach up, feeling muscle and exposed teeth.

We hear Will rushing over “Dad! Dad!”

Will hugs his dad as the girls stay back. They gasp softly when they look at me.

Leroy groans “I’m okay. I’m okay”

“But why…”

“Listen. Listen. You take this dagger”

“What?”

“You take it. You take it. And you hide in the fog, and you use it for cover. Take the dagger. Take it to that tree, and you bury it deep in the base. And that thing goes to sleep and all of this stops. You understand me?”

“I can’t”

“Yes, you can”

“No”

“Wh-why not?”

Will has tears in his eyes “I’m scared. I’m not you”

“Listen you don't have to be. You understand? You don’t have to be me, and I don’t want you to be. You just be you. You hear me? I love you, son. I love you”

We hear the footsteps of the soldiers, making me tense “Leroy”

He looks back, then looks back at Will “Go, son” He kisses Will on the head “Go. Go. Go!”

Will stands up, looking at the girls “Come on. Let’s go”

They all run off into the fog. Leroy and I look at the soldiers, led by Fuller.

Fuller gestures towards the van “Go get Hallorann”

I glare at Fuller, then I grimace in pain. The veins in my neck and face glow, and I feel my cheek heal, returning to normal. I gasp, freezing in place.

My vision goes dark. I don’t know how much time has passed, but when I open my eyes, everything is different. I recognize the scene around me. The carnival from 1908. I look down, and I see I’m in the same outfit from the terrible night. The only difference is, my wounds are gone. Not a scar in sight. I hear voices coming from Pennywise’s wagon, so I go and I peek inside.

I see several carnival workers and child Ingrid, surrounding Pennywise. But, they keep calling him Bob.

The man in the Top Hat seems to be trying to wake up Pennywise “Bob! Bob! Bob!” Pennywise’s eyes are open, but their unfocused “Bob! Bob!” He shakes his head, looking at the man “Are you okay, friend?”

Ingrid looks at Pennywise “Papa, Papa, you're all right”

Pennywise groans, breathing heavily “Where am I? What is this?”

“You need to lay off the spirits, Robert. I found you out yonder in a ditch. You look like you took a nasty fall”

“I'm not Bob Gray”

“Well, who else might you be, then? Peter Rabbit?”

“Ah, don't you dare speak to me that way!” Pennywise grabs the man’s throat, sliding off the bed.

“Daddy!”

Pennywise sneers “I am a god! An eater of worlds!”

Pennywise grunts as Top Hat slaps him across the face twice, knocking him back.

“Must have hit your head a little harder than you thought there, didn't you, Bob?”

“Oh, no, no, no, no, no, no”

He suddenly sees me “Little witch”

I smile, walking into the “Bob. It’s good to see you awake”

He shakes his head “You know who I am, witch”

I cross my arms, walking closer and standing next to the barker “Of course I do. You’re Bob Gray. A good friend and colleague of mine. Are you alright?”

Suddenly, everything starts shaking, knocking us to the ground. Pennywise and I both see the man’s hand become a different color. Pennywise smiles “Oh, hо, hо” He laughs menacingly “Tricky, tricky... Dicky!”

“Who's Dicky, Bob?”

Pennywise knocks the hat off, then removes the man's face, revealing Dick “I'm not... Bob!” Pennywise kicks Dick back.

We suddenly get ripped out of the illusion. I still see Pennywise standing with Shaw. Pennywise shakes his head “Oh, hо, hо” bells jingle “Tricky Dicky, Dicky”

Shaw holds up his hands and Pennywise chuckles “Hey. Hey!”

Pennywise looks at him, watching. Shaw nods “It's okay. You're free. You're free to go”

Pennywise smiles, then starts walking toward his exit, bells jungling. As he walks, Pennywise sniffs Shaw, trying to figure out the smell. He stops, turning to look at him “I know you” Pennywise starts walking toward him “I never forget a smell”

“Stop. What are you doing?” 

Pennywise growls, raising a hand over his face, showing a smile, but when he lowers it, it's the face of a twisted version of the skeletal man Shaw was afraid of, snarling. Shaw screams, horrified.

“Now you see it!”

“Stay back!” Shaw gasps, trying to act brave “You stay back! Or, goddammit, I will teach you a--”

Pennywise roars, biting into Shaw’s face.

Shaw screams, and I gasp deeply. I come to, falling onto my hands and knees. I throw up some blood, coughing and trying to steady myself.

I feel hands on my arms, making me look over. Dick looks at me worried, holding me close.

He lowers his voice “You alright?”

I nod softly, then the weather starts getting worse. Storming above us. I tense up, then look toward where Pennywise was.

“Oh, shit”

The others look as we see Pennywise skipping toward the tree. He looks at us, then grins before heading toward the tree.

Leroy looks at Fuller “Colonel, you have to stop that thing! If it gets past that tree, we’re all fucked! Listen to me! Please!”

The colonel points at Leroy “This man is a traitor! Ignore him, airmen!”

Leroy looks at Dick and I, nodding softly. Dick looks at Hank, who nods as well.

In the blink of an eye, we each stand up, fighting with the airmen. I hold my hands out, and my voice echoes around us.

“Drop!”

All the soldiers drop to the ground, including Fuller. The others grab the guns, aiming them at the soldiers.

I hear Pennywise laughing maniacally. I start running toward Pennywise, the cold wind biting at my skin.

I hear Will yell to the others “Don’t be scared! Keep going!”

I see Pennywise slow to a walk, giggling “Hey! You! Having a little bit of trouble, are we? Keep tugging that thing and it just might pop! So long, losers!” He starts skipping again.

Suddenly, shots ring out, taking off his entire head. Blood flows upward as I look to see Pennywise’s body twitch, his hand moving. A jack-in-the-box head pops out of the body with a maniacal giggle.

“Fuck!” Leroy shoots Pennywise’s head off again. He then trips and falls to the ground “Oh, fuck!”

Charlotte yells for her husband “Lee!”

I look toward the tree, seeing the kids struggling to place the pillar. I keep running. I see Pennywise’s head regrowing as Leroy tries to take another shot, but nothing happens.

Pennywise stares at him “Uh-oh!”

Leroy tries the gun again, but nothing happens. Pennywise suddenly shows Leroy the lights, causing him to stop.

Charlotte starts running toward Leroy “Leroy!

Pennywise starts crawling after the kids, grunting and growling, while I manage to run past him. I feel him grab my ankle, dragging me to the ground. His claws dig into my flesh, blood pooling down my leg.

I yell out, kicking at his hand. He drags me back, then bites into my leg. I reach back, clawing at his face “Get. Off!”

When he lets go, I rush to stand, limping toward the kids to help. Pennywise keeps crawling after me.

All of a sudden, I hear light footsteps. I look back to see the spirit of Rich, running toward the kids. He looks at Pennywise, flipping him off.

Tears pour down my face as he runs. I force myself to run toward them, my veins glowing the closer I get to the dagger. I see Rich helping his friends.

Pennywise grunts and growls as his arms turn into bat-like wings, his feet turning into bird-like feet. The adults shoot him repeatedly, but he keeps going. He flies towards the kids, while I run, trying to get between him and them.

I hear the adults yelling behind me, urging the kids on.

Right before Pennywise could get to the kids, I stand in front of them. Pennywise's claws begin to dig into my chest, right as the kids plant the dagger. A powerful energy connects the pillars, sealing the border. Pennywise and I both get thrown back, past the group of adults, bouncing across the frozen river. We slid across the ice, landing about a dozen or more feet away from the adults, but only a foot or two away from each other. I breathe shakily, carefully trying to push myself to sit up.

Pennywise sits up, twitching and growling. His face starts peeling and floating away, revealing the different layers of creatures he’s appeared as until he lets out a shriek, returning to normal.

I gasp softly as he starts to disintegrate “Lively crowd”

A booming rumble sounds throughout the area as he growls weakly, his body disintegrating and turning purely into the dead lights. I look up at them in awe as the lights swiftly return back home.

I breathe shakily, falling over “Holy shit”

Dick rushes over to me, helping me sit up “Hey, hey, hey. I got you. You okay?”

I hug “I’m okay. I’m alright”

I look over, seeing Rose crying and holding Taniel’s corpse, singing softly in their native tongue.

A few days later, at Rich’s funeral, I stand near Dick, tears staining my cheeks.

Marge stands at the podium, getting the chance to say a few words for her friend.

“Hi, everybody. I only knew Rich for about a month. I know what you're thinking. How well can you know anyone in a month? If you weren't good friends, why are you even speaking at his funeral?” I hear the kids crying softly, as well as a few others in the crowd “But maybe there aren't such things as good friends or bad friends. Maybe there are just friends. People who stand by us when we're hurt, and who help us not feel so lonely. Maybe friends like those are always worth being scared for... and hoping for, and living for. Maybe worth dying for too... if that's what has to be. Rich taught me that too. No good friends. No bad friends. Only people we want to be with... need to be with. People who build their houses in your heart” She places Rich’s drumsticks on his casket.  I look over, and I see Rich’s spirit, his hands on his parent's shoulder. Dick holds my hand, squeezing gently.

The reverend comes forward as Marge goes to sit back down “Thank you for those kind words. And thank you, everyone, for coming to honor the memory of Ricardo Santos. God bless you. Go in peace”

As everyone starts to leave, we see Rich’s dad, reach up and touch his shoulder. Where Rich is resting his hand. Dick and I walk over, Dick sitting a chair away from them, while I stand behind him.

Dick looks at Rich, then his parents “The hand you feel on your shoulders…” They look at us “Your boys there. He always will be”

Rich’s parents smile as they sob. His father looks at Dick “Who are you, sir?”

Dick pauses before speaking “I’m still working on that”

I smile, wiping tears from my eyes. Dick and I leave, him walking me home.

A couple days later, I’m reading a book as I drink a cup of tea. I hear a knock on the door. I shut my book, standing and walking towards the door. I open it, seeing Dick standing there.

I smile “Dick, hi”

He smiles “Hey, Lily. Mind if I come in?”

I let him in, shutting the door behind me “What’s going on?”

He rubs the back of his neck as I walk closer “I’m, uh, gonna be leaving. Tonight.  A buddy of mine is giving me a job working as a cook in a restaurant in his hotel”

I nod softly, smiling softly “Good. That’s good. Give you a bit of a break from nearly dying a lot”

He chuckles softly “Yeah. I, uh, wanted to stop by and say goodbye”

I step closer, wrapping my arms around his neck as his arms move around my waist. He smiles, leaning down and kissing me deeply. I kiss back, enjoying the moment.

The two of us sit there for a moment before we pull away.

I blush, smiling “Hell of a way to say goodbye”

He smiles “Yeah, well, I wanted something good to remember this place by”

I chuckle softly “I’m glad I can be a good memory for you, Dick. Make sure you write, alright? I wanna know how that new job is”

He chuckles “I will. I promise”

He leaves, heading to Boston, then London to his new job. My smile softens, as I head back inside.

October 1988

It’s now been another 27 years since the kids closed the cage again. I’m still a teacher, now 106 years old, still looking young. The cycle has already started, Pennywise feeding on the fears of children in town. I haven’t seen him yet, but I’ve been receiving little ‘gifts’ from him. Mostly certain organs or limbs that have been ripped or bitten off.

Right now, I'm walking down Jackson and Witcham street, rain pouring down as I carry an umbrella. I slow my walk when I see a little boy in a yellow raincoat, talking to something in the sewer. Pennywise.

I tense up, watching the two talk. I hear the two laugh, then Pennywise growing. Pennywise holds up a paper boat, and when the boy reaches for it, Pennywise quickly bites his arm off.

The boy, who I now recognize as Georgie Denbrough, screams and falls to the ground “Help!”

He tries crawling away, but Pennywise stretches an arm out.

I drop the umbrella, rushing toward the little boy “Georgie. Georgie!”

Pennywise grabs his leg and pulls him into the storm drain.

“Billy!”

I dive, trying to grab Georgie, but I barely miss, his fingers brushing against mine.

I breathe heavily “Damn it”

A gloved hand suddenly grabs my wrist, making me gasp.

Pennywise comes into view, grinning “Aww, little witch. Couldn’t save Georgie. Couldn’t save Rich. Can’t save them all. Can’t save any of them”

I glare “Piece of shit clown. Get the hell off of me”

He bites my hand, making me hiss in pain. His tongue wraps around my hand, licking up the blood and leaving drool all over my skin. He looks at me, his pupils dilating “My witch”

I pull my hand back, backing away. I breathe heavily “I am not your anything”

He chuckles darkly, disappearing back into the sewer.

June 1989

Now, it’s the last day of school. I pack up my things and I start walking out of my classroom. I walk outside, students quickly leaving to head home.

I see Mrs. Ripson standing with Sheriff Bowers, waiting for her daughter to possibly walk out of the school. I look over and see four boys dumping their school things in the trash. I smile, knowing the boys. As they talk, I see an older boy, Henry Bowers and his friends, Patrick, Belch and Vic, approaching the younger boys.

I see Henry push one into another, and they start picking on them. I start walking over, hearing one of the boys, Bill Denbrough, glare and stutter angrily “You s-s-suck, Bowers!”

One of the other boys tries to get him to stop “Shut up, Bill”

Henry turns and looks at him “You s-s-s-say something, Bi-Bi-Bi-Billy? You got a free ride this year 'cause of your little brother” He approaches Bill “Ride's over, Denbrough” Henry looks to his father, who takes off his glasses and looks at his son with a stern facial expression that says ‘Leave him alone, son’. "This summer's gonna be a hurt train for you and your f***** friends” He runs his hand along his tongue and wipes it on Bill's cheek. He looks at me, then tenses as I walk up behind the younger boys.

I place my hands on my hips as I move, standing between the two groups. I smile “Mr. Bowers. I thought we’ve had this conversation already, didn’t we?”

He nods quickly “Yes, ma’am”

I lower my voice a bit, stepping closer “I want to remind you, Henry, that I have beaten your grandfather to a bloody pulp. I’ve held your father at knife point and threatened to use his guts for garters. Do I need to make this a generational thing?”

He shakes his head quickly “No, ma’am”

I nod “Good. Now, get. Before I give you a proper reason to fear me”

He and his friends quickly run to a car, peeling out of the parking lot.

I turn to see the boys staring at me, eyes wide and jaws dropped.

I tilt my head “What?”

The boy with glasses, Richie Tozier, smiles “Miss Frost, you are awesome!”

I chuckle “Why, thank you, Richie” I start walking a bit with them “The Bowers men and I haven’t really been on the best terms. Not since the sixties”

Eddie looks at me “I still can’t believe you’re over a hundred. I still don’t think that’s possible”

“You can always look at the school pictures. There’s literally a picture of me from the 30’s working there”

The tallest boy, Stanley Uris, nods “I’ve seen it. She looks the same. Like, she didn’t age at all”

I chuckle “Alright, I’ll see you guys around. Be careful and try not to piss off Bowers and his gang of morons”

The boys laugh as I walk away. I end up walking down the road, and I see another boy riding his bike to deliver meat. He goes down a side road to avoid Bowers and his gang. I feel Pennywise’s influence, so I follow Mike. I start walking toward him, and I see his hallucination. Burnt hands reaching out through a locked door, calling for him. He stares in horror as I walk over to him. Suddenly, the door flies open and inside, the shadowy shape of Pennywise waves, his eyes glowing menacingly.

The revving of a car engine is suddenly heard, and I pull Mike out of the way as Bowers and his friends speed up, driving toward us.

We fall to the ground, and the stop the car for a moment, Henry standing through the roof “Stay the fuck outta my town!” He throws a cigarette at Mike before they peel away. 

I glare after them as the manager of the meat shop comes out “Mike? Are you okay?”

I stand up, helping Mike up. I look at him “You okay, hon?”

He nods, looking at the door. I glance at the door, then I place a hand on his shoulder, making him look at me “Hey. It’s alright. You let me know if you need any help, okay?”

He nods, giving me a hug “Thanks, Miss Frost”

I hug him back “You tell your grandfather I said hello, alright?”

He smiles and nods “Sure thing”

I pat his shoulder and make my way home.

The next day, I head to the pharmacy. I grab a few things I need for the house, when I see Eddie, Bill and Stanley with several medical items, making me raise a brow. I walk over, to the register, buy my things and then I start heading out. I see the boys run out of the store, carrying the items. I follow them, seeing them run into the alley next door. I look down the alley, seeing Richie and a new kid around town, blood staining his shirt. I walk down the alley, my heels clicking against the concrete.

All the boys look at me, eyes wide. I walk over, crouching in front of the bleeding boy “Hey, Ben. You mind if I take a look?”

He hesitates, then nods. He carefully lifts his shirt.

 I see the letter ‘H’ carved into his stomach. I sigh softly, looking at him “Bowers?”

He nods “I managed to kick him and run”

I nod “Good on you. Alrighty. Eddie, let me see those”

Eddie hands me the medical supplies. I take a cotton ball and add a bit of cleaning alcohol to it “This will sting a bit, alright?”

He nods and takes a breath, inhaling sharply as I start cleaning the wound. I glance over, seeing Beverly Marsh and Bill walking over. Beverly looks at Ben, a bit concerned.

“Are you okay? That looks like it hurts”

Ben nods “Oh. No, I'm good. I just... fell”

Richie scoffs “Yeah. Right into Henry Bowers”

Bill glares a bit “Shut it, Richie”

“Why? It's the truth” Ben just shrugs.

Beverly looks at me, smiling “Hey, Miss Frost. You got everything you need to fix him up?” she smiles at Ben, who smiles back at her.

I smile “Hey, Bev. Yeah, we should be all good here. Eddie, dear, bandages” He hands me the bandages. I carefully apply them to the wound.

Bill looks at Bev “You know, we'll take care of him. Uh, thanks again, Beverly”

“Sure. Maybe I'll see you around”

“Yeah, we were thinking about going to the quarry tomorrow, if you wanna come” Richie and Ben both look surprised about Bill inviting a girl to join them.

“Good to know. Thanks” she smiles and waves at Ben as she walks away.

Stanley looks at Richie as Beverly leaves “Nice going bringing up Bowers in front of her”

Eddie stands up “Yeah, dude, you heard what she did”

Ben looks confused “What'd she do?”

Richie smirks “More like, ‘Who'd she do?’ From what I hear, the list is longer than my wang” He runs his hand along his groin.

Stanley looks at him “That's not saying much”

Bill shakes his head “They're just rumors”

“Anyway, Bill had her back in third grade” Ben looks up at Bill “They kissed in the school play” Stanley smiles at Bill “The reviews said you can't fake that sort of passion”

I shake my head “Just because you hear a rumor, doesn't mean it’s true”

Richie looks at me “What about the rumor that you made a deal with the devil and that’s why you look so young.

I pause “Uh, well…” 

His eyes widen “It’s true!?”

“I mean, technically, it wasn’t the devil. And I didn’t make a deal. I encountered this…entity, and it accidentally gave me immortality” I finish bandaging up Ben and I look at him “All good?”

He nods “Thanks, Miss Frost”

I smile, helping him stand up “No problem, hon” I grab my bag and begin walking down the alley “By the way, you fellas might see me at the quarry tomorrow. I like to read, swim, and sunbathe. Bye, boys”

I head home, and I find a liver on my front porch. I make a face, picking it up and bringing it in. Can’t just leave it to rot.

The next day, I head to the quarry at about 6 in the morning, setting up my towel, my bag and a book. Once there, I read for a bit, propped up against a smoother log.

As time passes, I hear slight commotion from the top of the cliff. I look to see Beverly jumping into the water, Richie yelling in shock “What the fuck?!”

I chuckle as she splashes into the water. The boys each jump in after her, making me smile. I go back to reading as the six play and have fun in the water.

I suddenly hear Richie yell out “Ah! What the fuck was that?”

Stanley looks around “Something touched my foot right here”

The kids freak out until they realize it was just a turtle. I chuckle as the kids make their way towards the beach that I’m at.

Beverly sees me and smiles “Hey, Miss Frost”

The boys pause and stare at me as Beverly sets up her towel next to mine, laying down. I smile “Hey, Bev. Love the hair. Short hair’s a good look for you”

She smiles, and I can tell that actually makes her happy.

I nod to the guys “You guys just gonna stand there and stare, or are you gonna sit down?”

They get out of the water, moving to sit or stand. I read a bit more, as Beverly plays ‘Bust a Move’ on her cassette player. We can both feel the boys staring, until we both look over at them.

The boys promptly look away and try to act natural. Eddie, who was standing next to Ben and Bill goes to sit next to Stanley, while Beverly goes into a sitting position and Richie looks in Ben's bag.

Richie looks at Ben “News flash, Ben. School's out for summer!”

Ben looks over as Richie reaches into the backpack and pulls out a postcard “Oh, that? That's not school stuff”

Richie glances at the postcard and turns it around “Who sent you this?”

“No one. Give it…” He grabs the postcard from Richie “No one”

Richie reaches into the backpack and pulls out a book, opening it, and looking inside “What's with the history project?” I glance over.

Stan leans forward to take a closer look as well before Richie hands the book to Bill, while Ben explains “Oh... Well, when I first moved here, I didn't really have anyone to hang out with, so I just started spending time in the library”

Richie looks at him as Bill looks at the articles “You went to the library? On purpose?”

I look at him, lowering my sunglasses “Richie, be nice”

He looks at me “I’m always nice. When I have to be”

I chuckle as Beverly stands up and walks over to the group “Oh, I wanna see”

Stanley looks at Ben as Beverly sits down next to Bill “What's the Black Spot?” I tense up, memories flooding back.

Eddie glances at him as they look at a picture of the Black Spot from 1962 “The Black Spot was a nightclub that was burned down years ago by that racist cult”

“The what?”

Eddie gives a look as Bill looks at Beverly and sees her recently cut hair “Don't you watch Geraldo?”

Bill smiles a bit “Your-your-your hair…” Beverly looks at him, like ‘I don't understand…’”

Ben looks at her “Your... Your hair's beautiful, Beverly”

Beverly runs a hand through her hair and smiles at Ben “Oh. Right. Thanks”

Richie looks at Bill “Here, pass it” extending his hand to Bill, who hands the book back to him; Stan leans closer to take a look “Why is it all murders and missing kids?”

Ben looks at the kids as Eddie turns to face him “Derry's not like any town I've ever been in before. They did a study once, and it turns out people die or disappear six times the national average” Richie looks at Stan, finding that to be very alarming.

“You read that?”

“And that's just grown-ups. Kids are worse. Way, way worse” Stan finds that to be very disturbing “I've got more stuff if you wanna see it”

Eddie shakes his head and whispers “No, no”

I smile softly, then I stand up, packing up my things. Ben looks at my arm, curious “What kind of scar is that?”

I hold up my right arm “This?” He nods “Uh, I was bit by a pest”

Richie points at the rest of my scars “What about those?”

“Also from a pest”

Eddie looks confused “What kind of pest has that many teeth?”

I take a breath “That kind that has been pissing me off for a very long time. For now, I’m gonna head on home. See you guys later”

I leave, going home and getting changed.

After I change, My phone starts ringing. I walk over, answering it “Hello?”

“Lily? It's Leroy”

I smile “Hey, Leroy. How is everything?”

“I think Mike saw something. In town”

My smile fades “Yeah. I know”

I hear Leroy let out a breath “I know you either can’t do nothing to stop what’s going on, but I wanna ask you a favor. As an old friend”

“Of course”

“Keep an eye on Mike”

I let out a small breath “Sure thing, Leroy. I’ll do what I can”

“Thanks, Lily. I gotta go, but I’ll talk to ya later”

“Alright. Talk to you later, Leroy”

We hang up, and I take a breath “Goodness”

 A few moments later, the phone starts ringing again. I raise a brow, answering “Hello?”

I hear a light chuckle on the other end “Hey there, Lily. How you been?”

I smile “Dick, hi. It’s so good to hear from you. I actually just got off the phone with Leroy”

“Oh, yeah? How’s he been doing?”

“Well, raising another teenager has its challenges. Especially right now”

There’s a pause “How long’s it been back?”

I sigh softly “Almost a year. It'll be going back to sleep soon. Probably another month or two. It seems to be a bit more mild this--” I turn, immediately seeing the ghost of Rich standing behind me. I let out a startled scream, making the boy laugh.

I give him a look “¡Maldita sea, Rich! ¡Cuántas veces te he dicho que no hagas eso! ¿Intentas provocarme un infarto? ¡Tienes suerte de ser un fantasma, si no, estaría tirando mis malditos zapatos!” (God damn it, Rich! How many times have I told you not to do that! Are you trying to give me a heart attack?! You are lucky you’re a ghost, otherwise I’d be throwing my damn shoes!)

He laughs “Aw, come on, Miss Frost. It's just too much fun”

I shake my head, and I hear Dick laughing on the other end “Oh, you find this funny, huh?”

“Oh, absolutely. How do you still get scared by that boy? It’s been almost 30 years”

I sigh, laughing a bit “He pops up at the most random moments. You know, this boy even scared me while I was teaching. Made the whole class think I was crazy”

He laughs and we continue talking, catching each other up on our lives.

It’s now July, the town getting ready for the fourth. I’m walking out of a shop after buying herbs and a few other witchy odds and ends, when I see the group, including Mike, sitting at the park near the Paul Bunyan statue. I walk over, listening to their conversation before they see me.

“I was thinking about It. Ironworks explosion in 1908. Bradley Gang in ‘35. The Black Spot in ‘62. And now with Georgie, Dorsey and the rest... It seems like this bad stuff happens nearly every thirty years…

“So what -- this town is cursed?”

“That’s what my grandfather thinks...You guys know what a haunt is?”

“You mean like in a ‘who-ya-gonna-call’ sense?”

“No, not like that... A haunt can also mean like a feeding ground for animals... Or for something else...My grandfather told me he thinks all the bad things that happen in this town are caused by one thing... An evil thing... that feeds off the people of Derry…”

“But It can’t be one thing. We’re all seeing something different…”

“Yeah, but I think it’s because It uses our worst fears to scare us…”

“I guess that’s why I’m seeing Georgie…”

“I saw a walking infection. What’d you see, Mike? Anything?”

“Hands. Lots of hands, melted together by fire…”

“Oh my God. That. Sounds. Awesome”

“Well, what are you afraid of?”

“Clowns”

I step out from behind the statue, all the kids looking at me. I lean against the statue “If you lot wanna know more about this town, you know where to find me”

I begin walking back to my house, the kids staring after me.

The next day, I walk home after getting some older books and more vintage items from the second hand store. As I approach my house, I see seven bikes laying in front of the house, and yelling from inside.

I rush inside, setting my bags aside. I run to the kitchen, seeing Eddie on the floor with a broken arm, Richie, Bill and Bev next to him, Mike and Stan next to Ben with claw slashes on his stomach, and Pennywise with a metal gate rod sticking out of his face, his sharpened teeth only showing on half his face.

“What the fuck is going on?!”

All the kids look at me, yelling and pointing at Pennywise. I walk into the kitchen as Pennywise backs away, chuckling.

Bill stands up “Don’t let him get away” He starts chasing after Pennywise. 

I rush over to Eddie as everyone panics “Eddie, Eddie. Look at me. Breathe, look at me, hon, look at me”

He looks at me, breathing rapidly. I carefully take his arm “I’m going to set it back, okay? Bev, Richie, keep him still”

Eddie shakes his head “No, no, no, no. Don’t fucking touch me”

I look at him, and he stares back, trying to calm his breathing “On the count of three, okay? One…two…”I quickly snap his arm back into place.

“Oooooh! The fuck happened to three?!”

“Distraction”

I reach under the sink, grabbing one of my first aid kits. I grab the splints and I carefully set his arm, then wrap it in gauze. I look at the kids “Help him up”

I move over to Ben “Okay, Ben. Let’s take a look”

He winces as he lifts his shirt. I tense as the smell of blood and fear gets stronger. I take a breath “This is going to need stitches, which I can’t do here” I take the cotton balls and cleaning alcohol, carefully cleaning the cuts.

Mike looks at me, breathing heavily “You’re not scared. Why…why aren’t you scared?!”

I glance at him, staying silent as I clean the wound.

“Miss Frost. You know what that thing is”

I bandage up the cuts “I've known for a very long time” I stand up, helping Ben up “Now, you kids need to go. I think you’ve had enough fear today”

The kids watch me once more before they quickly leave my house.

I sigh, frustrated. I head down to the basement, leaning over the well “You need to stop breaking into my fucking house”

His eyes glow from within the darkness “Nope. It has been my home for much longer, little witch. I allow you to live here. To keep you close”

I glare “I cannot wait to watch you die”

He chuckles darkly, going back to his den.

A few weeks later, I’m walking down the street, when I nearly run into Eddie, whose arm is in a cast.

I smile softly “Hey Eddie. How’s your arm doing?”

He holds it up a bit, nodding “It’s better. The doctor said you set it perfectly, so that was a big help”

I nod “Good” I look at his cast, and I see in big black letters, the word ‘LOSER’ is written. I raise a brow, then smile “The word is spelt wrong”

He looks at the cast as I make a red permanent marker appear in my hand “No it’s not”

“Yes, it is. Let me fix it”

He holds out  his cast. I take the cap off with my teeth, and I carefully write a ‘V’ over the ‘S’. Eddie smiles as I put the cap back on “There. That’s much better” I gently raise his head, making him look at me “Just because you’re different, does not mean you are a loser. You have wonderful friends, who, when they get their heads out of their asses, will be by your side. Friends like that are hard to come by, especially in this town”

He smiles, then wraps me in a hug. I hug him back, gently patting his back. He heads back home, while I go back to my shopping.

Over the month, the kids do their own thing, still not talking to each other. I’m currently walking back to my house, when I see the group's bikes, and Belch’s car. I tense up and I head to the door, seeing it open. I hear yelling and scuffling in my basement. I go down and I see Henry Bowers sitting on Mike, a gun used for killing sheep aimed at Mike’s head. I hear the rest of the group in the well, calling for Mike. I rush over, grabbing Henry’s arm and pulling it away right as he pulls the trigger, missing Mike. He looks at me, covered in what smells like his fathers and friends' blood. I glare as I twist his arm, a loud snap filling the air.

He yells out, but it’s cut off when I grab his throat. I lift him off of Mike, who scrambles to stand. I look at Henry, who is trying to breathe. He suddenly takes his pocket knife, stabbing me in the throat. I grab his other wrist, slowly pulling the knife out of my neck. I raise a brow, blood pooling down my neck “Well, that was pathetic. Kind of fits, considering your family” I hold him over the well, his feet dangling.

I hear Richie in the well “Holy shit!”

I drop Henry, his body falling and occasionally bouncing against the wall. I look at Mike, who has the gun again, staring at me in fear and horror. I place my hands on my hips “Anybody wanna explain why you boys broke into my house? Again?”

Mike takes a breath “It’s got Bev”

I sigh “Alright. Boys! Stand back, I’m coming down”

I place a hand on the well, then I hop down, my claws digging into the wall and allowing me to stand at the entrance the other boys are at. I look at them, all of them staring in shock. I climb into the tunnel, then I look up “Come on, Mike! Let’s get a move on, kiddo”

He lowers down the rope they used, then makes his way down. I look at them “I’ll go look for Bev. Stick together. Don’t split up. Ever”

They all nod as I make my way through the sewers, trying to figure out this maze of tunnels. I hear yelling from the kids, first looking for Stanley, then Bill.

I end up in the lair at the same time as the others, seeing Eddie, Richie, Ben, Stanley and Mike, trying to get Beverly down.

I rush over, and I scale the wall, jumping over and grabbing Bev. I land on my feet, holding Bev. I gently set her down on her feet as the boys rush over. Ben gently shakes her, her head tilting downwards “Beverly” He looks at me “Why isn't she waking up?! What is wrong with her?! Beverly, please! Come on!” he pushes her head upright and hugs her, to no effect; finally, after holding her for a few seconds, in a last ditch effort, he kisses Beverly.

The other boys look at him, shocked “Whoa, whoa, whoa!”

“Wow”

Ben backs away from Beverly; after a few seconds, Beverly gasps as her eyes return to normal and she regains consciousness.

“Bev?” He looks at her, and she looks back at him.

“‘January embers’”

Ben looks at Beverly with a passionate smile "’My heart burns there too’"

Richie smiles “Jesus, fuck” He laughs and embraces Ben and Beverly; Eddie and Stan laugh as well.

Mike smiles “Oh, God” he, Eddie, and Stan join in the embrace as well; relieved that Beverly is safe, Eddie walks away, looking around the corner in the direction that Bill went.

Beverly looks around and notices Bill isn't there “Where's Bill?”

Mike, Richie, Ben, Beverly, Eddie, Stan and I appear behind Bill, the kids surprised by the sight of Bill’s thought-to-be-dead little brother.

”Georgie” tears up “I want to go home. I miss you. I want to be with Mom and Dad” Bill begins to tear up and breath heavily.

“I want more than anything for you to be home. Mom and Dad…”
Bill walks closer to what's believed to be his little brother “I miss you so much”

”Georgie” smiles softly “I love you, Billy”

“I love you too…” Bill takes out the gun and points it to "Georgie" in his forehead, who begins to whimper in fear “But you're not Georgie” As "Georgie" keeps whimpering, Bill shoots him, and "Georgie" falls to the ground; the Losers stumble back, shocked at having seen Bill shoot what they assumed was his supposedly deceased younger brother. After a moment, "Georgie" begins to twitch and growl erratically, revealing himself to be It in disguise, as he transforms into Pennywise.

Pennywise sits up, then stands up. I walk over, leaning against the tower of toys and belongings, while the kids scream and shout for Bill to kill Pennywise. Mike looks in realization, his voice too quiet “It’s not loaded”

Bill aims the gun.
“Hey, it’s not loaded!”

Bill fires, and it creates a hole in Pennywise’s head, cracks forming. He throws his head back, blood spraying out and upwards before he roars and begins chasing after the kids. He attacks Bill, biting into the gun Bill used to block the bite.

The kids all begin fighting, trying to stab Pennywise, but he manages to throw them all off, then grabs Bill by the throat, moving backwards with him.

Bev glares “Let him go”

“No. I’ll take him. I’ll take all of you. And I’ll feast on your flesh as I feed on your fear” He holds up a finger, wagging it a bit “Or…you’ll just leave us be. I will take him, only him. Then I will have my long rest, and you will all live to grow and thrive and lead happy lives, until old age takes you back to the weeds”

Bill looks at them “Leave. I’m the one who dragged you all into this h-house. I’m-I’m s-sorry” Pennywise laughs, smiling “Go!” He keeps laughing.

Bev looks at the boys “Guys. We can’t”

Bill has tears in his eyes “S-s-sorry”

Richie stands up “I told you Bill. I fucking told you. I don't wanna die. It’s your fault. You punched me in the face, you made me walk through shitty water, and now…” He grabs a bat out of the pile “I’m gonna have to kill this fucking clown” Pennywise throws Bill aside, charging at Richie with a roar “Welcome to the Losers club, asshole!” Richie slams the bat into Pennywise’s face. Mike tries to hit him with rebar, but burnt hands coming out of Pennywise's mouth stop him. Stanley smacks the hands away, making Pennywise’s head turn into the creepy lady. Stanley smacks him in the face. Mike tries to hit him again, but Pennywise dodges, his arms turning into crab arms as he tries to stab the rolling child. Ben grabs a metal spike, stabbing Pennywise though the back and out the front, blood floating out of him as he roars, his arms returning to normal. Ben tries to grab the spike, but it’s stuck, giving Pennywise the chance to turn his head into a mummy, trying to bite Ben’s face. The kids all grab weapons, beating the shit out of Pennywise, his blood floating up. I look at it, seeing it just float around. Pennywise turns into a leper, throwing up on Eddie, who throws up in turn.

“I’m gonna fucking kill you!” He kicks Pennywise, who turns into Bev’s father.

He smirks “Hey, Bevy. Are you still my little gi--”

Bev screams in rage as she stabs the rebar into Pennywise's mouth, his head returning to normal. They all back up as Pennywise spits out the metal bar.

“Oh, shit”

Pennywise starts panting, backing up.

The kids close in as I start walking over “That’s why you didn’t kill Beverly. Cuz sh-sh-sh-she wasn’t afraid. And we aren’t either. Not anymore. Now you’re the one who’s afraid. Cuz you’re gonna starve”

Pennywise glances at me, grunting a bit. I stand next to the kids, staring down the cosmic entity.

Pennywise’s pupils dilate, staring at me, then flips into a well that leads deeper into the cave system beneath Derry. He stares at us as pieces of his head begin floating apart.

“Fear”

He drops into the cave, disappearing to go back into hibernation.

Richie takes a breath “I know what I’m doing for my summer experience essay”

Beverly sniffles, then looks up “Guys. Guys”

“The kids are floating down”

We watch Bill walk over to the bottom of the tower. A faded, torn rain jacket sits, covered in old blood and grim. Bill holds it to his chest as he sobs. The rest of the losers hug him, being their for their friend. 

I walk around, facing him with tears in my eyes “I’m so sorry, Bill”

He looks at me, tears staining his dirty cheeks.

I shake my head softly “I…I tried to save him. I was too late. I’m so sorry, sweetheart”

He stares for a moment, then he quickly hugs me. I hug him back as he cries into my shoulder.

After we sit and cry for a bit, I help get the kids out of the sewers before I head home.

Once home, I sit on my couch, taking a breath “Gods, this has gotten exhausting”

2016

Another 27 years have come and gone. I retired from being a teacher, while now having worked at the library for 15 years.

Now, I walk down the road, and I see this group of homophobic guys surrounding this gay couple. One of them punches the one wearing a beaver hat, knocking him to the ground. The others throw his boyfriend to the ground. I see them start beating up the couple, making me glare.

I speed up, my heels clicking on the asphalt. One of the homophobes looks at me, then tenses “Shit. We gotta go. Like, now!”

The other two homophobes try to run, but their feet melt into the asphalt, making them unable to move, no matter how hard they try. The other two, the ones closer to me, stare at me.

I smirk, the couple laying beaten on the ground “Can’t have you pricks running away now, can I? No. No, that wouldn’t do. Not at all”

The youngest looking prick, one with acne and braces, glares “Get the fuck out of here, bitch!”

I raise a brow “A bitch, am I?” I laugh a bit, my eyes shining in the darkness “That’s cute, but I think you mean witch, you homophobic prick. And you have just pissed off your only chance at survival. As if you actually deserve to breathe the same air as these two gentlemen”

I immediately feel the fear, making me grin, licking my lips a bit as the asphalt covers the other two’s feet. I approach the man who started the beating, grabbing his jaw “Such a waste of life. Wasting the precious air. I think I’ll do this town a little favor” I swiftly rip off his jaw with ease, letting him drop to the ground, blood splashing everywhere.

 I chuckle darkly as I approach the others, my claws growing longer “Are you scared, pests? Good. Fear is such a powerful tool” I use my claws, slicing one’s throat and slicing another across the chest. They both fall to the ground, choking on blood and gasping for breath. I grab them by their shirts, then I toss them over the bridge, into the water below. I walk over, doing the same with the other one.

I look at the other boy, who has now pissed all over himself. I walk over to him, then I grab his face, my claws just barely digging into the flesh “I’m going to let you live, only to allow your fear to grow. If you do anything like this again, I will come for you. And no one will believe you. Not. One. Person. Am I understood?” He nods frantically, whimpering “Good” I throw him to the ground “Get the fuck out of here, miserable pest”

He takes off running, his pants much fuller than before. I fix my nails as I look at the couple. The boyfriend carefully makes his way over, as I crouch next to the more beaten man.

His boyfriend looks at me, scared “Don’t-don’t hurt him. Please”

I smile softly “It’s okay” I grab the inhaler the leader kicked away “Let’s sit you up, dear”

I help him sit up as his boyfriend sits next to him “Adrian. My god”

Adrian looks at his boyfriend “I’m okay. I’m alright”

The boyfriend looks at me, still cautious “Thanks”

I smile, looking at Adrian “Think you can stand, hon?”

He nods, using his inhaler “Let’s do this”

I help the boyfriend up, then we both help Adrian, both of us putting an arm over our shoulders. I smile “Let’s get you boys out of here. Hospital or home?”

Adrian nods “I’ll be fine. Let’s head home”

His boyfriend shakes his head “Hospital. I don’t wanna risk anything”

I nod “Hospital it is”

Adrian chuckles softly “No fair”

I chuckle softly as we walk, eventually getting to the hospital. The boyfriend looks at me “My name’s Don. This is Adrian”

I nod, smiling “I know. Mind if I give you a bit of advice?” He nods “Get out of here. As quickly as you can and as far as you can. The sooner, the better”

He nods “Yeah. That’s the plan. Thanks, again. And we won’t say anything about what we saw”

Adrian chuckles “As if anyone would believe us. But seriously, you are a lifesaver”

I nod “I hate people like them. They make better fertalizer than people. Have a good rest of your night, boys”

I walk away, seeing a red balloon floating near a tree. I tense up, walking back to the bridge. I end up on the other side of the riverbank, looking at the police cars and lights above. I stare at the writing Pennywise left. ‘Come home’, over and over again in blood, the blood dripping upwards. I feel someone staring, making me look over at Mike Hanlon, all grown up. I smile softly before I walk away.

A week later, I walk into this restaurant called ‘Jade of the Orient’, wanting to get some take out instead of cooking.

I smile, the food smelling delicious as I walk to the counter. As I grab my food, going to leave, I hear a woman say something.

“Pennywise”

I pause, looking toward the group. It’s the loser’s club, all grown up.

“Oh, the fucking clown”

“Oh, shit”

“Pennywise”

Mike looks at me, then he tenses. The others turn and stare at me, seemingly trying to remember my face. I look at the empty chair, the one meant for Stanley. I take a breath, tears in my eyes, then I head outside. Not long later, I hear the group head outside, Bev on the phone.

“Hello, Mrs. Uris. My name’s Beverly Marsh. I apologize for calling, but I’m an old friend of your husband’s”

I hear Richie and Eddie getting upset with Mike, until they listen to Mrs. Uris on the phone “Oh” She sighs tearfully “He passed”

“When did it happen?”

“Yesterday. It was horrible, the way he died. His wrists. In the bathtub. I’m sorry. I have to go”

“We’re all very sorry, Patty”

“Thank you”

She hangs up and the others start freaking out, leaving one by one. Mike walks over to Bill “Bill. Please, man. I’m begging you, please. J-just listen to me, man. Please”

“What are you going to say? What could you possibly say that would make any kind of difference. They're all gone”

“Come on. Let me show you something. One thing. And if you want to leave, you can leave. Just let me show you this first. Please”

I walk away, making my way back home. Once there, I place my food in the fridge and I lean against the counter, my vision shifting and allowing me to see Richie, Eddie, Bev and Ben.

Eddie looks at Bev “Okay. So, what do you mean that you’ve seen us all die?”

Richie nods slightly “Yeah, ‘cause I gotta be honest. That’s a fucked up thing to just drop on somebody”

Bev wipes a tear away “Every night since Derry, I…I’ve been having these nightmares. People in pain. People dying. People…”

“So you have nightmares. I have nightmares. People, they have nightmares. But that doesn’t mean that your visions are true”

Bev looks at him “I’ve watched every single one of us…”

Bill and Mike walk in “You’ve seen every single one of us what?”

“At the place that Stanley wound up. That’s how we end”

Richie looks at her, gesturing to the others “Okay, how come the rest of us aren’t seeing that shit? I mean, w-what makes her so different?”

Mike looks at Richie “The Deadlights”

Bill stops wondering “The Deadlights. She was the only one of us that got c-caught in the Deadlights that day”

Mike steps forward “We were all touched by it. Changed. Deep down. Like an infection. Or a virus. A virus. You understand. Slowly growing. That virus, it’s been growing for 27 years. This whole time, metastasizing. It just got to Stan first, because…”

Richie looks at them “He was the weakest”

“Jesus Christ, Rich”

“Just saying what everyone else is thinking, man”

“I mean, Rich, come on”

Mike gestures to Bev “What Beverly sees, it will come to pass. It’s what’ll happen to all of us eventually, unless we stop it”

“How the hell are we supposed to do that?”

“The Ritual of Chud. The Shokopiwah. The first ones who fought It, they have a saying. ‘All living things must abide by the laws of the shape they inhabit’”

“A tribal ritual?” Richie scoffs “Are you fucking kidding me, man? Alright, there’s gotta be another way. Okay? This thing comes back, what, every 27 years? Let’s just kick the can down the road and do it then”

Eddie looks at him “Wait, we’ll be 70 years old, asshole”

Bev shakes her head “It doesn't work that way. None of us make it another 20 years, and the way it happens…”

Rich takes a shot.

“So, if we don’t beat It this cycle, then…”

“We die”

“Horribly”

“Yeah, I don’t need the ‘horribly’ part”

“I didn’t say it. She said it. Not me”

“Alright, guys. Look. I’ve seen w-w-what he’s talking about, and it’s all true. It’s the only way. If we want this ritual to work…”

“We have to remember”

“Remember what?”

They leave, making their way to the woods. I smile, and I make my way there as well, getting there first.

I take a breath, snapping my fingers and changing my clothes. I'm now wearing a crop top. Shorts, and high heeled ankle boots, my hair in a high ponytail, reaching down to my lower back.

I hide behind a larger tree, waiting for the group to show up. A bit later, I hear footsteps walking closer.

“The Barrens. This is where we came. After the rock fight”

“The clubhouse. You built that for us”

“Yeah, the hatch has got to be around here someplace”

“You did. I do remember that!”

I hear some quieter talking between Beverly and Bill, chuckling a bit.

I hear Ben talking “You know what? I actually think the door was more like around--” I hear a sudden crashing sound “Found it. I’m okay. Come on down”

They all make their way down into the club. I walk over quietly, listening to the group walking around and talking a bit.

“Oh, man. That’s so cool”

“Oh, my God”

“How do we all not remember that this was here?”

I hear Richie make his voice sound like Pennywise “Hey, Losers. Time to float” He starts laughing “Ahh!”

“Fuck, Richie”

“Dude!”

“Remember when he used to say that shit? And he’d do that little dance” He starts vocalizing typical clown music “Am I the only one who remembers this shit?”

“Are you gonna be like this the entire time we’re home?”

“All right. Just trying to add some levity to this shit. I’ll go fuck myself” He starts whistling.

I pop my head down into the clubhouse “Boo!”

Richie jumps back “Fuck!”

The others jump back, staring at me, eyes wide as I laugh. Mike sighs, then smiles “Lily, hey”

I smile, climbing down “Hey guys. Miss me?”

Beverly lets out a surprised breath “Miss Frost?”

Eddie looks at her, then me “No way. The whole, uh, not ageing thing was real?”

I chuckle “I’ve been in Derry since 1908. Oh, I’ve missed you guys”

I hug each of them, all of us smiling.

Bill pauses a bit, seeming to realise something “Th-th-the entity that accidentally gave you im-immortallity. It was…It. Wasn’t it?”

My smile fades a bit “Yeah. I…may or may not have bitten his hand after I watched him eat a friend of mine”

Eddie makes a face “Ugh. Gross”

I nod “Very. I ended up drinking Its blood. Now, it keeps me in Derry. Either for entertainment or to drink my blood” I take a breath “I know what the plan is. And I want to help” I flatten my lips, looking at Mike “And, uh, I should probably let you know something”

Mike looks confused “What?”

“The, uh, group of guys that was found in the river near the festival?” He nods “Yeah. That, um, wasn’t Pennywise. I-I did that”

He stares at me, eyes wide “What? W-why would you do that?”

I hold up my hands “Hey, to be fair, they were a bunch of homophobic assholes that I caught beating up a gay couple. I then helped the couple to the hospital”

Richie ponders what I said, then nods “Okay, fair enough”

Eddie looks at him “Dude”

“What? I mean, yeah, the killing part isn’t a good thing, but if it’s towards pieces of shit like that? I don’t feel bad”

I hold out a hand “Thank you. Bastards got what they deserved. Anyway, uh, back to the ritual.  I’m going to let you know something. Trying to kill him will be damn near impossible” I hesitate “He holds grudges, you know” They all look at me “Pennywise. Ever since you hurt him, he’s been holding a grudge” I scoff “Actually, he’s been holding this grudge longer than that”

Richie looks confused “The fuck does that mean?”

I look at him “He doesn’t experience time the same way we do. To him, time is a suggestion. Past, Present, Future. To him, they get all mixed up” I cross my arms, pacing a bit “In 1962, a different group of kids tried to kill Pennywise. After he killed their friends. After the Black Spot fire” A tear falls down my face “After Ricardo Santos died saving Margret Truman, who grew up to be Margret Tozier” Richie’s eyes widen, and I nod softly “Pennywise knew who your mother was when she was just a child. He separated her from the others, and he showed her this” I pull a folded piece of crinkled paper from my pocket. I unfold it, showing Richie’s missing poster “It was a brand new piece of paper when he showed her. You found it crinkled up. He did that, then threw it at her. He tried to kill her, so you couldn't kill him”

Bev inhales sharply “He knew?”

I nod “He knows” I shake my head “I don’t have that memory. I wasn’t there. It makes me think, maybe I can help change some things. Save those who were destined to die” I walk over to a shelf, picking up a tin that says ‘For use of the Loser’s Club only -Stan’. I look at the group “I know what you’ll need to do the ritual. A token. From each of your pasts. Not when you were together. That summer when you had that fight. When you were all separated and alone. Find these tokens, remember your pasts. He’ll try to scare you. Make you want to leave” I hand the tin to Bill, smiling softly “Stanley’s token”

Bill looks at me “Did you know about Stan?”

I nod softly, wiping tears from my face “He was the only one I couldn’t save. He was out of reach”

Eddie shakes his head “It got him”

“No. Fear got him. Stanley…Stanley didn’t want to break the promise. He was just…the fear was too much. I am sorry”

They nod, Mike giving me a hug “Thanks”

I nod, patting his shoulder. I look at the others “I’ll be at the library. If you need me, give me a call, alright?”

They all nod, and I climb out, heading back to the library. Mike rushes to catch up to me, the two of us walking together as they all split up.

I look at him “Have you noticed anything…odd, at the library?”

He pauses, thinking, then nods slightly “I just figured it was something to do with Pennywise. I’ll sometimes find random…pieces, at your desk” He looks at me “Do you know what that’s about?”

I let out a deep breath “Yeah. Pennywise keeps leaving me ‘gifts’. He did it the last cycle, too” I shake my head “It’s weird, though. It’s like he’s a cat or something. I feel like I’m being watched all the time. Not like the usual way people stare at me. Like a predator watching its prey”

Mike nods “Maybe he’s getting more cautious. Keeping an eye on the only witch in town”

I chuckle softly “Maybe”

We get to the library, Mike going off to do his own thing, while I stand at my desk. I begin organizing paperwork, when I feel Its presence behind me. I sigh, frustrated “What do you want?”

Silence. I pause, looking behind me, confused. I look up to see Pennywise standing behind me, staring down at me. I hear a deep, almost purring sound coming from his chest. His pupils are dilated as he watches me.

I raise a brow “O…kay then. Weird” I turn back around, going back to work. Suddenly, I feel something wrapping around my legs. I look down, seeing Pennywise wrapping his arms and legs around my legs, pressing his face against my thigh.

I try to move, but he holds my legs tight. I stare at him “What the hell are you doing?”

An almost cat-like grumbling sound comes from his throat. He sticks out his tongue, licking a line up my thigh, before biting into the thick flesh.

I inhale sharply, groaning “Damn it, Pennywise. Let go”

He grumbles, blood dripping down my leg. I huff, reaching down and grabbing a fistful of his hair “Let. Go”

I pull him off my leg, gripping his hair tight. He pauses, almost confused and a bit shocked. His pupils get so large, you can barely see the yellow. He looks at me, silent, then grins. Purring, he licks up the blood on my leg. He stands up as I let go of his hair, lowering his face close to mine. He then grabs my face and licks across my face, the purring getting louder.

He then just…disappears.

I stand there, shocked, confused and disgusted “Mike! Can you come here for a sec?” I grab a paper towel from my desk.

Mike walks over “What’s wrong?”

I wipe my face “Well, Pennywise showed up”

He tense up “What? A-are you okay?”

I nod “Yeah, I’m just peachy. Covered in blood and drool”

“What happened?”

“I was organizing papers, and I felt him behind me. I asked him what he wanted, but he stayed silent. He just stared at me. I turned around, and he wrapped himself around my legs. He licked my leg, then bit it. So, I grabbed his hair, pulling him off my leg. He stared at me, smiled, then licked my leg. He then stood up, licked my face, then disappeared” I wipe up the blood dripping down my leg “He kept purring, which was weird”

Mike grabs the first aid kit, crouching by my leg “Is this new?”

I nod as he bandages up my leg “Yeah. The biting’s not new, but the clinginess is”

He finishes bandaging me up “You okay?”

I nod, cleaning up the excess blood and drool “Yeah, I’m fine”

He nods “Let me know if you need any more help”

I smile “Sure thing, hon”

He walks off and I go back to working. As I work, my vision tunes in to the Loser’s club, seeing each of them finding their tokens and Pennywise terrorizing them. Bev finds the postcard Ben gave her, and sees Ingrid Kersh, distorted and chasing her. She also sees Bob Gray, Ingrid’s father and the original Pennywise. Richie goes to the movie theater, getting a game token, and he sees Pennywise, who chases him, telling he knows his secret. Bill gets his old bike silver, riding it to the drain where Georgie was taken. He gets the paper boat Georgie lost, but little hands try pulling him in until he pulls free. He does notice a little kid, who tells him he hears voices in the tub drain. Ben goes back to the school, already having his token for 27 years. Eddie goes back to the pharmacy, getting his inhaler. He sees a leper in the basement, and nearly chokes it out until it throws up all over him.

They all go back to the townhouse, and I fix my vision. About ten minutes later, I get a call on my phone “Hello?”

“Miss Frost, it’s Ben”

“Ben? What’s going on?”

“Bowers just attacked Eddie, and now he’s escaped out a window”

“Oh my god. Is he okay?”

“He’s okay, Bev is patching him up. Lily, why is he out?”

I sigh “Pennywise. He influenced Bowers when he was a teenager, made him more crazy than he already was. Bowers killed his dad and two of his friends. He must have helped him escape Juniper Hills. Look, like I said before. Pennywise holds a grudge. He’s going to bring out the worst memories from that summer. Are you all together?”

“No. Bill ran off to go save a kid and Richie bolted.

I nod “Alright. You guys take care of Eddie and try to get a hold of Richie. I’ll go after Bowers”

“Alright. See you soon”

I hang up, and I sigh “Son of a bitch” I grab the papers, going to move them to the files in the basement.

Suddenly, I hear a loud crash as class breaks. I rush in, seeing Bowers grabbing his knife.

“You should have burned, Mike” He attacks Mike, trying to stab him in the face with his knife “Just like your druggie parents. Can you see them yet?” He starts laughing “Crisping?” Mike groans “Like fried fucking--”

I dig my claws into Bowers’s skull, pulling him off Mike. I glare, looking down at him “How dare you insult those good people?” I grab his head, and in one swift movement, I twist his head around. A sickening series of snaps fills the air, then the sound of tearing flesh as I rip off his head.

I look to see Richie standing near Mike, staring at the mess.

“I guess you could say that was long overdue. Get it? ‘Cause we’re in a library” He retches “No” He turns and throws up next to Mike, who groans.

Richie steps aside as the door opens, Bev, Ben, and Eddie walking in “Mike? Hey. Hey. Oh my god”

They rush in, seeing Bower’s corpse on the floor and his head in my hand. Bev screams a bit, panting.

Ben looks at Mike “Are you alright?”

Mike looks at the group “Where’s Bill?”

I take off Bowers’s head from my hand, the flesh dropping to the floor “He went to the festival to try and save a kid. Ben, dear, bandages are in the first aid kit under the front desk. Mike, sit down”

He nods, sitting down and calling Bill. Ben starts bandaging Mike’s arm as I clean up my hands.

“Bill, we’re at the library. Where are you at?” He quickly stands up “No, no, no, no. Just-just- look just come here to the library. We can talk about the plan” “No, no, no” “Bill! Bill” Bill hangs up and Mike looks at us “He’s going to fight it alone”

“What?”

“Alone” He grabs this leather container “I-it’s about the group. The ritual doesn’t work without the group. Doing it together is why it’d work”

Richie looks at the container, seeing one side scratched out. Mike quickly snatches it away.

Ben looks at Mike “Mike, did he tell you where he was going?”

Bev looks toward Mike “If he really wanted to kill Pennywise, there’s only one place he’d go”

“The same place the ritual needs to be performed”

Eddie sighs a bit “Oh, we're not gonna like this, are we?”

Ben sighs “Fuck”

I nod towards Mike “Key’s in the potted plant by the door. Let yourselves in”

Mike nods “Come on”

They all rush to get to my house, while I clean up the mess. Once I’m finished, I begin walking to my house. At the front door, I hear yelling and screaming. I go inside, seeing Ben stabbing a buggy version of young Stanley’s head. I begin walking to the basement, waiting for the group to come down to the well.

When they come down, I smile, waving “See you kids down there” I take off my jacket and kick my heels off before I swing my legs over the well, jumping in and over to the tunnel.

“Oh, shit”

“Lily, you alright?”

I peek my head out “Well come on. I’m not getting any younger down here” I chuckle, going down the tunnels and making my way to the large area where the tower of kids sat. It looks far more empty than it used to. I sit where the old tower used to sit, and I wait.

I see the group at the edge of the tunnel, looking around.

“Shit. This is it. This is where it happened”

They all walk in, the water is chest high. I stand up as the guys get to the little island, but Beverly looks around. Ben looks at her “Bev, what is it?”

“I thought I heard something” Suddenly, the creepy old woman pops out of the water, making Bev scream.

She grabs Bev as the boys jump back in the water “Beverly!”

“Time to sink!”

She sinks under the water with Bev, everyone but Eddie jumping in after.

Eddie looks at the water in fear “Guys? Okay, guys. Come on. Hey, guys. Guys, come on. Please, come on. I don’t wanna walk out of here alone”

They all burst through the water, gasping for air. Everyone lets out relieved sighs until Richie looks at Mike “Mike. Where do we go from here?”

They all climb onto the island, while I stand near what almost looks like a sewer cover, an ancient symbol carved into it.

The others stand around it. Mike starts reciting something “In the depth is where It crept. In the beneath, to find belief. In the depths is where It crept. In the beneath, to find belief”

Ben looks at the rest of us “Is he okay?”

Richie glances at him “I think at this point, that’s a relative question”

Bev looks at Mike “What’s on the other side?”

“I don’t know. No one does” Mike then quickly opens the hatch, making the others back up.

“Whoa, whoa, whoa!”

Mike looks down, seeing a tunnel with rocks lining the edges. I sit down, then smile “See you on the other side” Instead of using the rocks as a ladder, I just drop straight down, holding my arms close as I stay straight as a pencil.

At the bottom, I land on my feet, hitting the ground made of rocks and stone. I crawl through a bit of a tighter passage, into a large room. My eyes widen as I walk to the center of the room. In the middle of the room, sits the star Pennywise crashed to earth in. I gently run my hand along the star pieces, moving to the middle.

A few minutes later, I hear the rest of the group entering the cave. I look to see Mike looking at the others “This is where It hid”

They look around in shock and slight awe.

“So, all of this has been under Derry, like, forever?”

I chuckle softly “No, Eddie. Not forever. Just a few million years”

Bev looks at one of the smaller points, blood floating off of it. They all climb into the middle and Mike grabs the container, setting it in the middle.

Mike looks at them “It can only be attacked in its true form. The ritual will show us that”

“And what is Its true form?”

“I hope it’s a puppy. Like a Pomeranian or…I’ll shut up”

“It’s light. A light that must be snuffed out by darkness” He adds lighter fluid to the container, then throws in a match “You’re artifacts. Place them in the fire. The past must burn with the present”

Bill takes out the boat “This is the b-boat that I built w-w-with Georgie” He adds it to the fire.

Eddie takes out his inhaler “It’s my inhaler” He takes one more puff.

Richie makes a face “Come on, dude”

Eddie tosses it into the fire. Bev holds up her postcard “Something that I wish I had held on to” She tosses it in.

Ben unfolds the paper “This is a page from my yearbook. That only one person signed. I probably should have forgotten it, but I couldn’t, because I kept it in my wallet…for 27 years” He tosses it into the fire.

Richie holds up the token “This is a token from the Capitol Theater” He tosses it in.

Eddie looks at him “You brought an actual token?”

“Yeah, man. That’s what we were supposed to do, asshole”

“Do you have any idea how long that’s gonna take to burn?”

“Yeah, but so is your inhaler, dude”

“Guys, come on”

“All the toxic fumes and the plastic and shit, so…”

Mike holds up a bloody rock “Look closely, Bev. You see it?” She nods “That’s where you hit Bowers”

She smiles “The rock fight”

“The day these bonds were forged”

Eddie looks at him, whispering “That’s not gonna burn, either”

Mike tosses the rock in.

Eddie reaches into his pocket, holding up a shower cap of Stanley’s. One they used while in their clubhouse Ben built underground, to keep spiders out of their hair.

“Oh, wait. Couldn't forget about Stan. Again” He tosses it in.

Mike takes a breath “Okay. Grab hands. Come on” Everyone does so “The Ritual of Chud. It’s a battle of wills. The first step was our reunion. The second was the gathering of tokens. This is the final step”

The fire goes out, everyone looking at it.

“What the…”

Mike and I look up, causing everyone else to do the same.

“Fuck is that?”

“Don’t look at them!”

“Are those the Deadlights?”

“Don’t look at it!”

I stare in awe as the lights begin descending toward us, the walls of the cave looking like Pennywise’s mouth full of teeth.

Everyone looks down, avoiding the lights. Mike begins chanting “Turn light into dark. Turn light into dark. Say it!”

“Say what?”

“Say it!”

They all begin chanting the phrase, Mike starting to say it in the native language. I watch as the lights move towards the container, my hair blowing in the wind. The lights are forced into the container, which Mike tries to put the lid on.

Suddenly, a red balloon begins growing, peeking out of the container.

Bev looks worried “What is this? Is this part of it?”

“Mike, is this supposed to be happening?”

“What? No, no, no”

“Keep chanting!”

“What?”

“Keep chanting!”

I sneak out of the star, moving to hide behind one of the spikes as the red balloon continues to grow, despite the groups chanting.

They all run, the balloon growing so much it fills the space, until it finally pops. The sound is deafening, making me shake my head as my ears ring.

Everyone locations each other, regrouping. Eddie looks at Mike “Did we do it? Did we do it? Yeah? Did we do it?”

“We-we put the tokens in the thing. That’s good, right?”

“We did it, right?”

Bev shines the light up, revealing a very large Pennywise in the middle of the star. They all exclaim in fear, backing up. I tense up, 

“Shit! Shit!”

Pennywise taunts them, moving slowly behind the spikes “Oh, did it work, Mikey? Did it work?” He starts laughing “tell them why your silly little ritual didn’t work. Tell them it’s all just a…what’s the word, Eds? Gazebo?”

Eddie glances at Mike “Mike, what’s he talking about?”

Bill looks at him “M-m-mikey?”

Pennywise smirks “Oh, Mikey, you never showed them the fourth side, did you?” He laughs “Didn’t want them to know what actually happened to the poor Shokopiwah? Yum, yum, yum, yum, yum”

Everyone immediately looks between Mike and Pennywise, yelling at him while he tries to defend himself.

“Fuck, Mikey, you lied to us again?!”

“No, but they didn’t believe! They didn’t believe they could kill him! That’s why it didn’t work back then!”

“Are you fucking kidding me, Mike!”

“We hurt him”

“Fuck!”

“Fuck you, Mikey!”

Pennywise gently reaches down, one large finger nudging against my face as we watch the group argue. I raise a brow, looking up at him.

“I needed something, anything, for us to remember. Anything for us to believe!”

“God damn it!”

“Fuck!”

Pennywise laughs, and black smoke flows out of the container, the deadlights, now a beautiful blue, rise out, smoke surrounding them as the booming base sounds from within them.

I stare up at them, full of wonder and awe, while the others scream and look away.

“The Deadlights! Don’t look at them!”

Pennywise gently moves me out of his way, while he emerges, spider-crab like legs and two claw arms under his regular ones as he stares at the group.

“For 27 years. I dreamt of you” He laughs “I craved you. Oh, I’ve missed you!” He laughs.

The group backs away, but Mike doesn’t move”Mike! Move back!”

“Waiting for this very moment”

“Mikey! You gotta move, Mikey!”

“Sorry. I’m sorry, guys”

“Mike, come on, man!”

“I’m sorry. I’m so sorry”

Pennywise pulls back his hand “Time to float!” His hand turns into a large claw.

“Oh, shit!”

“Sorry”

Right before Pennywise can stab Mike, Bill tackles him out of the way, the others quickly pulling the two to their feet.

“Mike, come on, get up! Get him up!”

“Go, go!”

“Run!”

I watch as they run away from the giant creature, Pennywise snarling as he smashes part of the star. I watch as everyone gets separated. Mike hides under a piece of star, Bill falls into some water, not coming up, Bev and Ben hide in one tunnel, while Eddie and Richie hide in another. Pennywise attempts to catch them, but then puts them in different hallucinations, each one trying to kill them. Eventually, they all manage to break free from the terror.

Mike runs out, Pennywise stepping in front of him “Miss me?”

Mike tries to stand brave “I know what you are. That’s why I’m not afraid”

Pennywise wraps a tentacle arm around Mike, squeezing him as a claw points at his throat “Well, I know what you are. A madman” Pennywise goes to eat Mike, but he gets hit in the face with a rock.

He looks over, seeing it was Richie who threw the rock “Hey, fuckface!”

Pennywise growls a bit, tossing Mike aside.

Richie grabs another rock “You wanna play Truth or Dare? Here’s a truth. You’re a sloppy bitch! Yeah, that’s right! Let’s dance! Yippee-ki-yay, mother--” Pennywise suddenly catches Richie in the deadlights, his mouth hanging open as his arms drop to his sides. Pennywise moves a bit closer, Richie lifting into the air.

Suddenly, Eddie runs out holding a metal gate spike, aiming it at Pennywise. At the Deadlights “Beep-Beep, motherfucker!” He throws the spike, stabbing into the back of Pennywise’s throat.

Pennywise howls in pain, and at the same time, I gasp, clutching my chest and hanging onto the star. I feel the same pain. It hurts like a son of a bitch. Pennywise chokes on the spike, falling backwards onto one of the larger spikes. I gasp softly, watching him groan and gag, his blood floating upwards. 

Eddie looks in shock “Holy shit”

Eddie runs over to Richie “Rich. Oh, Rich. Hey, Rich, wake up! Hey. Yeah, yeah! There he is, buddy! Hey, Richie, listen! I think I got him, man! I think I killed it! I did! I think I killed it for real!”

I suddenly see Pennywise lift one of his claws, and within a second, I stand between him and Eddie.

The sound of flesh tearing fills the cave as I gasp softly. I hear Beverly scream and Eddie behind me “Oh shit!”

I look down, seeing the claw stabbed through my stomach, protruding out through my back.

I hear Pennywise let out a roar filled with pain and sorrow. One I’ve never heard from him before.

I shakily raise my hands, gently grabbing hold of the arm as blood drips out of my mouth and floats up.

I let out a shaky laugh “Well, shit” I look at the group, their eyes wide with fear “Never…never thought I'd get the chance to die…”

Pennywise manages to remove himself from the spike, then carefully lifts the claw stabbed through me.

I hear the group yelling for me, but Pennywise roars at them, gently placing me in his large hand. With great care, he removes the claw, making me gasp and cough up blood. The blood flows out of my mouth, more of it floating.

He whimpers slightly, panic in his eyes. He raises a hand, gently touching my cheek.

I reach my hand up, letting it hang over his fingers “Run. Run!” I hear the group starting to run as my vision goes dark “Run…”

Suddenly, I see a distant light. Then, I see more appearing. It looks like stars. As more light shows, it seems like I’m swimming in a galaxy, the colors beautiful and vibrant. I stare in amazement until I feel a presence behind me.

I turn around, and what I see…is a turtle. An incredibly massive one, but still a turtle. It appears rather ancient and almost wise looking, its shell covered in many colors and its toenails appear to have entire galaxies resting in them. It seems to be staring at me, and within my mind, I hear a deep, almost grandfatherly voice.

“You are the one They chose”

I look confused “‘They’? Who are ‘they’? Who are you?”

“You know me, little witch”

I stare at the turtle, its presence different from Pennywise. Instead of evil and destruction, it feels like goodness and creation. My voice comes out in a whisper “Maturin”

I hear him chuckle in my mind “You are correct, little one”

I take a breath “Why…why am I here?”

Maturin lowers his head “You changed Them. Every so slightly, but the change is there. You can not yet leave the mortal plane. You have more work to do. If you want to save the your town, They can not die”

All of a sudden, I get ripped back to the cave.

I gasp loudly, leaning over and coughing up blood violently. I breathe heavily “What the fuck was that?!”

I get pulled into someone’s arms, and based on the ruffles and puff balls, it was Pennywise. I look up at him, seeing he is more disheveled and seemingly weaker. I look at the group, all of them staring at me in shock “Uh, what did I miss?”

Mike takes a breath “You died. It brought you back”

I look at Pennywise, who holds me close, burying his face in my neck. I nod softly “And the reason he looks like this is because…?”

Richie crosses his arms “We got close to killing him”

Eddie nods “We made him feel small. It actually started working”

I raise a brow “Y’all tried to bully a cosmic entity to death?” I take a breath “Okay then. Oh, um, you can’t kill him, actually”

The group looks at me, wide eyed “What? Why?”

“Cuz Maturin told me if he dies, the town will be destroyed” Pennywise’s arms tighten around me as he growls. I roll my eyes again “Oh, you hush” I look back at the group “We can figure out something else. Something that doesn’t potentially kill a town full of people. Besides, killing him would be pointless. His death would have been his rebirth. An endless cycle of death and fear”

“What do you propose we do, then?”

I think for a minute “He can kill and eat what he needs to survive. No innocents. I can keep an eye on him, and the town will stay intact”

The group exchanges a look, then each one nods in agreement. I smile softly “Thank you”

Pennywise helps me stand up, but my now healed wound still hurts, making me hiss in pain “Fuck”

Pennywise scoops me into his arms, holding me close. I look at the others “If it’s all the same to you guys, I’d like to get out of this cave and take a nap”

In agreement, we all leave the cave, going back up through the well and into the house. When we get to the front of the house, the group stares at Pennywise, who now appears more human looking, his eyes a beautiful blue color and his hair a dark brown. Almost like a younger Bob Gray.

I look at the group, smiling “This may be the last time we ever see each other. I want you all to go live happy lives. Remember the good parts of this place. And maybe give each other a call once in a while” That makes them crack a smile, making me chuckle. I look at Mike “You don’t need to stay in the past. Go. Leave this town behind you, and carve out your own future”

Pennywise brings me inside, the Loser’s Club leaving. In my room, Pennywise lays me down, laying down next to me. I look at him, his clown form back on. He pulls me close, holding me as if I would disappear. I hesitate before gently rub his cheek with my thumb “I’m not going anywhere”

He purrs, his  yellow eyes staring back at me. He places a kiss against my forehead, making me let out a small breath before I fall into a deep sleep.

This town isn’t exactly safe from Pennywise or myself, but the Loser’s are. Our home (and his feeding grounds) are safe, and so are we. We’re getting used to living together, the entity not needing sleep anymore. He is far more clingy than before, but I make it work. Now, we live almost like roommates. Well, if my roommate acted like a cat with separation anxiety and killed/ate people.

I keep an eye on him, helping cover up the disappearances and murders, while essentially keeping the town under our control. It’s now time for the next chapter of my life.