Schizophrenia

Chapter 1

"And how are we doing today, Nicolette?" The doctor, clad in white remorsefully asked. Clenching my fists, I pulled against the leather straps. The wrinkled and stressed brown, crinkling under the pressure.

"Mhmm..." He hummed, scribbling on his clipboard. I glared at him as he strolled leisurely around my hospital bed. It should really be called a casket. That's what it seems like, anyway.

I loathed the man with my entire existence. They call him a doctor, I prefer demon. The things they do to people, human beings, it's inexcusable. Their actions are indescribable, fit for a horror novel. Even this white, barren cell of a room I live in seems like it's own little horror.

Except for one thing.

My music.

"I..." Swallowing, I tried to find the will to speak. "I have a request." Doctor Roberts' eyebrows raised, pronouncing each line of his forehead as he turned to me. "Oh?" He asked, surprised. "And what would that be? Not that I am obligated in any way to actually follow through with such a request... Especially if it's coming from one of your little," He tilted his head mockingly. "Imaginary friends."

I ground my teeth and clenched my fists, trying to hold in my rage. I wanted my simple request to be acted upon, and that would never happen if I lashed out now.

"I just request that my radio be moved closer." His face softened a bit. "I suppose that's simple enough.." He said as he brought it closer to my bedside. "I'm not totally heartless you know." He mumbled.

"Now then!" He grinned. "I'll be back for your electroshock treatment in about, oh..." He glanced at his watch. "Ten minutes."

"No! No! That helps nothing!" I screeched, thrashing and shaking the bed. I began to hear laughter in my head.

Won't this be fun! We get to see you squirm and writhe... And the screaming... What sweet music it is!

I could feel the familiar sting in my eyes of forming tears. "I'll be back soon!" Roberts said wistfully.

"Why, why, why, why, WHY?" I repeated over and over again. My long black hair tangled as I thrashed my head from side to side.

Doctor Roberts returned and began placing the electrodes on different parts of my head and body. "Why do you do this? What is the purpose?" I whispered.

"We just want to get rid of those little friends of yours. Shall we start?" He said with a grin and flipped the switch.

My entire body tensed, I became conscious of each muscle in my body. It felt as if I was set aflame. Beads of sweat had begun to drip down my forehead. I almost believed an ax was striking my skull, the pain was so severe. My entire body was wracked with screams.

That's when I heard it.

That lone melody, reaching out to me through the pain. Through the tears.

The Music of the Night.