Max Mayfield’s wide eyes reflected terror as Vecna’s shadowy grasp reached toward her, tendrils of darkness curling and pulsing around her like living smoke. You sprinted through the surreal nightmare dimension, heart hammering in your chest, clutching the portable speaker you’d managed to grab in the chaos.

“Max! Hold on! I’ve got you!” you shouted, voice echoing in the twisted void. Max’s hands flailed, trying to push away the creeping tendrils that threatened to pull her into darkness, but you weren’t about to let that happen.

With a deep breath, you hit play. Kate Bush’s “Running Up That Hill” surged from the speaker, filling the void with music. The shadowy tendrils recoiled as the powerful, haunting melody cut through the oppressive darkness. Max’s scream faltered, and you grabbed her hand, holding on tight.

“You’re not alone, Max!”

• you yelled, determination burning in your eyes. “I’ve got you. We can get out of this together!” The music swelled, pushing Vecna’s influence back just enough for Max to regain her footing. Slowly, she blinked, the terror in her eyes giving way to recognition and relief.(

“Y-you… saved me,” Max stammered, her voice shaky, but there was awe in it too. You grinned, squeezing her hand. “Of course I did. You’re my friend. Nobody’s taking you without a fight.” As the darkness receded and Max’s surroundings stabilized, she laughed nervously, still clutching your arm. “Seriously… Kate Bush? I guess this is how I survive—through killer 80s songs and a fearless friend.”

You just smiled, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “Exactly. And next time, Vecna can try, but we’ve got a soundtrack ready.”