THE REAPER WATCHES ME

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<<set $mstat to 20>> <<set $jstat to 50>> <<set $gstat to 80>> <<set $grandcap to "Gina">> <<set $mastat to 20>> <<set $sstat to 20>> <<set $pstat to 20>> <<set $grandstat to 80>>

<<if $charmenu is true>>[[Characters]]<</if>> <<if $personality is true>>[[Personality]]<</if>> <<if $memory is true>>[[Memories]]<</if>> [[Credits]]

<span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > ROMANCE OPTIONS </span> ''<<if $characters is true>> <<if $mars is true>><span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.0em" > ''[[Marshall]]'' </span><<else>>Unknown<</if>> <<if $just is true>><span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.0em" > ''[[$j_name|$j_name]]'' </span><<else>>Unknown<</if>> <<if $mariana is true>><span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.0em" > ''[[Mariana]]'' </span><<else>>Unknown<</if>> <<if $parker is true>><span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.0em" > ''[[$p_name|$p_name]]'' </span><<else>>Unknown<</if>> <<if $sable is true>><span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.0em" > ''[[Sable]]'' </span><<else>>Unknown<</if>> <<else>> Your Romance Options Are Locked<</if>>'' <span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > OTHER SIGNIFICANT CHARACTERS </span> ''<<if $grim is true>><span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.0em" > ''[[Grim]]'' </span><<else>>Unknown<</if>> <<if $mom is true>><span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.0em" > ''Mom'' </span><<else>>Unknown<</if>> <<if $grandc is true>><span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.0em" > ''[[Gina]]'' </span><<else>>Unknown<</if>>'' ''<<link "Return">><<goto$here>><</link>>'' <<run $knownButtons.delete("button text")>> <<script>>UIBar.stow()<</script>>

<<if tags().includes('here')>><<set $here to passage()>><<endif>>

The danger you've found yourself in was deterred by Grim. You couldn't count how many times you were thankful, but it became a normal occurrence for you. Once your father went missing, he was a constant help to your mental health. He saved you every time. That was when you began to accept his help and guidance, and somehow you knew he wouldn't hurt you. You didn't know how this companionship started, or how he picked you, but you felt special. You expected him to be with you at all times like before, but recently, he's started disappearing. No warning or a time frame for when he'll come back. It was a little worrisome for you, but he is the Grim Reaper, so you think he could handle himself. <hr> ''[[NEXT|8]]''

Grim had been your fatherly figure for a long time. However, he doesn't ask about your interests or try to get you to join clubs, but he's always there for you. Ever since your father went missing, he's become this hologram of someone that was meant to be here, but wasn't. You're internally grateful for it, and you think he knows it. You don't remember your father, but you remember Grim, and you hope he'll be something constant in your life. And that was when you started to enjoy his presence, and you miss it when he's gone. You didn't know how this companionship started, or how he picked you, but you felt special. You expected him to be with you at all times like before, but recently, he's started disappearing. No warning or a time frame for when he'll come back. It was a little worrisome for you, but he is the Grim Reaper, so you think he could handle himself. <hr> ''[[NEXT|8]]''

He's been a chaperone through and through. He follows you, sometimes being a nuisance, but helping you out of situations. When your father went missing, Grim took the role of babysitting you wherever you went. He would always supervise you, and you had no choice but to let him. Telling him off did nothing, and you had to face him standing beside you on dates, at school, or in bed. It wasn't a lifestyle you wanted, but you could agree he was somewhat helpful. And that's when you learned to appreciate that he's doing it //to// help you. You didn't know how this companionship began, or how he picked you, but you felt special. You expected him to be with you at all times like before, but recently, he's started disappearing. No warning or a time frame for when he'll come back. It was a little worrisome for you, but he is the Grim Reaper, so you think he could handle himself. <hr> ''[[NEXT|8]]''

<center>Before you begin, you will need to select your choice of gender and pronouns, including the genders of the gender-selectable romance options. Choose your gender and pronouns below: //<span style = "color: white; font-size: 1.0em;" > What is your choice of gender?</span>// <<listbox "$gender">> <<option 'Cis Female'>> <<option 'Cis Male'>> <<option 'Non-binary'>> <<option 'Trans Female'>> <<option 'Trans Male'>> <</listbox>> //<span style = "color: white; font-size: 1.0em;" > What is your choice of pronouns?</span>// <<listbox "$pronoun">> <<option 'She/Her'>> <<option 'He/Him'>> <<option 'They/Them'>> <</listbox>> <hr> [[NEXT|RO's Gender]] </center> <<script>>UIBar.stow()<</script>>

<center>Next, choose the genders for the gender-selectable characters. <hr> [[Set all to male |Ready][$j_gender to "male", $j_name to "Justin", $j_person to "man", $j_heshe to "he", $j_capheshe to "He", $j_caphisher to "His", $j_himher to "him", $j_hisher to "his", $j_hishers to "his", $j_himself to "himself", $p_gender to "male", $p_name to "Parker", $p_person to "man", $p_heshe to "he", $p_himher to "him", $p_hisher to "his", $p_hishers to "his", $p_capheshe to "He", $p_caphisher to "His", $p_himself to "himself"]] [[Set all to female |Ready][$j_gender to "female", $j_name to "Justine", $j_person to "woman", $j_heshe to "she", $j_capheshe to "She", $j_caphisher to "Her",$j_himher to "her", $j_hisher to "her", $j_hishers to "hers", $j_himself to "herself", $p_gender to "female", $p_name to "Parker", $p_person to "woman", $p_heshe to "she", $p_himher to "her", $p_hisher to "her", $p_hishers to "hers", $p_capheshe to "She", $p_caphisher to "Her", $p_himself to "herself"]] [[Set all to non-binary |Ready][$j_gender to "non-binary", $j_name to "Justice", $j_person to "person", $j_capheshe to "They", $j_caphisher to "Their",$j_heshe to "they", $j_himher to "them", $j_hisher to "their", $j_hishers to "theirs", $j_himself to "themself", $p_gender to "non-binary", $p_name to "Parker", $p_person to "person", $p_heshe to "they", $p_himher to "them", $p_hisher to "their", $p_capheshe to "They", $p_caphisher to "Their", $p_hishers to "theirs", $p_himself to "themself"]] [[Set all randomly|Ready][$j_gender to "female", $j_name to "Justine", $j_person to "woman", $j_heshe to "she", $j_capheshe to "She", $j_caphisher to "Her",$j_himher to "her", $j_hisher to "her", $j_hishers to "hers", $j_himself to "herself", $p_gender to "male", $p_name to "Parker", $p_person to "man", $p_heshe to "he", $p_himher to "him", $p_hisher to "his", $p_hishers to "his", $p_capheshe to "He", $p_caphisher to "His", $p_himself to "himself"]] </center> <<if $gender is 'Cis Female'>> <<set $adultgen to 'woman'>> <<set $kidgen to 'girl'>> <<set $kidsgen to 'girls'>> <<set $adultsgen to 'women'>> <<elseif $gender is 'Cis Male'>> <<set $adultgen to 'man'>> <<set $kidgen to 'boy'>> <<set $kidsgen to 'boys'>> <<set $adultsgen to 'men'>> <<elseif $gender is 'Non-Binary Person'>> <<set $adultgen to 'person'>> <<set $adultsgen to 'people'>> <<set $kidgen to 'person'>> <<set $kidsgen to 'people'>> <<elseif $gender is 'Trans-Woman'>> <<set $adultgen to 'woman'>> <<set $kidgen to 'girl'>> <<set $kidsgen to 'girls'>> <<set $adultsgen to 'women'>> <<elseif $gender is 'Trans-Man'>> <<set $adultgen to 'man'>> <<set $kidgen to 'boy'>> <<set $kidsgen to 'boys'>> <<set $adultsgen to 'men'>> <</if>> <<if $pronoun is 'She/Her'>> <<set $heshe to 'she'>> <<set $capitalheshe to 'She'>> <<set $hisher to 'her'>> <<set $capitalhisher to 'Her'>> <<set $himher to 'her'>> <<set $capitalhimher to 'Her'>> <<set $capitalhishers to 'Hers'>> <<set $himselfherself to 'herself'>> <<set $capitalhimselfherself to 'Herself'>> <<elseif $pronoun is 'He/Him'>> <<set $heshe to 'he'>> <<set $capitalheshe to 'He'>> <<set $hisher to 'his'>> <<set $capitalhisher to 'His'>> <<set $himher to 'him'>> <<set $capitalhimher to 'Him'>> <<set $capitalhishers to 'His'>> <<set $himselfherself to 'himself'>> <<set $capitalhimselfherself to 'Himself'>> <<elseif $pronoun is 'They/Them'>> <<set $heshe to 'they'>> <<set $capitalheshe to 'They'>> <<set $hisher to 'theirs'>> <<set $capitalhisher to 'Theirs'>> <<set $himher to 'them'>> <<set $capitalhimher to 'Them'>> <<set $capitalhishers to 'Theirs'>> <<set $himselfherself to 'themselves'>> <<set $capitalhimselfherself to 'Themselves'>> <</if>> <<script>>UIBar.stow()<</script>>

<center><span style = "color: #EE2737FF; font-size: 2.0em;" >[[BEGIN GAME|Prologue]]</span> </center> <<script>>UIBar.stow()<</script>>

Select gender for both RO options: ''J'' <<listbox "$j_gender">> <<option 'Female'>> <<option 'Male'>> <<option 'Non-binary'>> <</listbox>> "P" <<listbox "$p_gender">> <<option 'Female'>> <<option 'Male'>> <<option 'Non-binary'>> <</listbox>> ''[[continue]]'' <<if $j_gender is 'Female'>> <<set $j_gender to 'female'>> <<set $j_name to 'Justine'>> <<set $j_person to 'woman'>> <<set $j_heshe to 'she'>> <<set $j_capheshe to 'She'>> <<set $j_caphisher to 'Her'>> <<set $j_himher to 'her'>> <<set $j_hisher to 'her'>> <<set $j_hishers to 'hers'>> <<set $j_himself to 'herself'>> <<elseif $j_gender is 'Male'>> <<set $j_gender to 'male'>> <<set $j_name to 'Justin'>> <<set $j_person to 'man'>> <<set $j_heshe to 'he'>> <<set $j_capheshe to 'He'>> <<set $j_caphisher to 'His'>> <<set $j_himher to 'him'>> <<set $j_hisher to 'his'>> <<set $j_hishers to 'his'>> <<set $j_himself to 'himself'>> <<elseif $j_gender is 'Non-binary'>> <<set $j_gender to 'non-binary'>> <<set $j_name to 'Justice'>> <<set $j_person to 'person'>> <<set $j_heshe to 'they'>> <<set $j_capheshe to 'They'>> <<set $j_caphisher to 'Their'>> <<set $j_himher to 'them'>> <<set $j_hisher to 'their'>> <<set $j_hishers to 'theirs'>> <<set $j_himself to 'themself'>> <</if>> <<if $p_gender is 'Female'>> <<set $p_gender to 'female'>> <<set $p_name to 'Justine'>> <<set $p_person to 'woman'>> <<set $p_heshe to 'she'>> <<set $p_capheshe to 'She'>> <<set $p_caphisher to 'Her'>> <<set $p_himher to 'her'>> <<set $p_hisher to 'her'>> <<set $p_hishers to 'hers'>> <<set $p_himself to 'herself'>> <<elseif $p_gender is 'Male'>> <<set $p_gender to 'male'>> <<set $p_name to 'Justin'>> <<set $p_person to 'man'>> <<set $p_heshe to 'he'>> <<set $p_capheshe to 'He'>> <<set $p_caphisher to 'His'>> <<set $p_himher to 'him'>> <<set $p_hisher to 'his'>> <<set $p_hishers to 'his'>> <<set $p_himself to 'himself'>> <<elseif $p_gender is 'Non-binary'>> <<set $p_gender to 'non-binary'>> <<set $p_name to 'Justice'>> <<set $p_person to 'person'>> <<set $p_heshe to 'they'>> <<set $p_capheshe to 'They'>> <<set $p_caphisher to 'Their'>> <<set $p_himher to 'them'>> <<set $p_hisher to 'their'>> <<set $p_hishers to 'theirs'>> <<set $p_himself to 'themself'>> <</if>>

<center><span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.8em; font-family: 'Bodoni Moda', serif;" >''THE REAPER WATCHES ME''</span> [[NEW GAME]] <<link 'LOAD'>><<run UI.saves();>><</link>> <<link 'SAVE'>><<run UI.saves();>><</link>> <<link 'SETTINGS'>><<run UI.settings();>><</link>> <<script>>UIBar.stow()<</script>> </center> <<script>>UIBar.stow()<</script>>

$j_name is a $j_gender and $p_name is a $p_gender. <<if $j_gender is 'Female'>> <<set $j_gender to 'female'>> <<set $j_name to 'Justine'>> <<set $j_person to 'woman'>> <<set $j_heshe to 'she'>> <<set $j_capheshe to 'She'>> <<set $j_caphisher to 'Her'>> <<set $j_himher to 'her'>> <<set $j_hisher to 'her'>> <<set $j_hishers to 'hers'>> <<set $j_himself to 'herself'>> <<elseif $j_gender is 'Male'>> <<set $j_gender to 'male'>> <<set $j_name to 'Justin'>> <<set $j_person to 'man'>> <<set $j_heshe to 'he'>> <<set $j_capheshe to 'He'>> <<set $j_caphisher to 'His'>> <<set $j_himher to 'him'>> <<set $j_hisher to 'his'>> <<set $j_hishers to 'his'>> <<set $j_himself to 'himself'>> <<elseif $j_gender is 'Non-binary'>> <<set $j_gender to 'non-binary'>> <<set $j_name to 'Justice'>> <<set $j_person to 'person'>> <<set $j_heshe to 'they'>> <<set $j_capheshe to 'They'>> <<set $j_caphisher to 'Their'>> <<set $j_himher to 'them'>> <<set $j_hisher to 'their'>> <<set $j_hishers to 'theirs'>> <<set $j_himself to 'themself'>> <</if>> <<if $p_gender is 'Female'>> <<set $p_gender to 'female'>> <<set $p_name to 'Justine'>> <<set $p_person to 'woman'>> <<set $p_heshe to 'she'>> <<set $p_capheshe to 'She'>> <<set $p_caphisher to 'Her'>> <<set $p_himher to 'her'>> <<set $p_hisher to 'her'>> <<set $p_hishers to 'hers'>> <<set $p_himself to 'herself'>> <<elseif $p_gender is 'Male'>> <<set $p_gender to 'male'>> <<set $p_name to 'Justin'>> <<set $p_person to 'man'>> <<set $p_heshe to 'he'>> <<set $p_capheshe to 'He'>> <<set $p_caphisher to 'His'>> <<set $p_himher to 'him'>> <<set $p_hisher to 'his'>> <<set $p_hishers to 'his'>> <<set $p_himself to 'himself'>> <<elseif $p_gender is 'Non-binary'>> <<set $p_gender to 'non-binary'>> <<set $p_name to 'Justice'>> <<set $p_person to 'person'>> <<set $p_heshe to 'they'>> <<set $p_capheshe to 'They'>> <<set $p_caphisher to 'Their'>> <<set $p_himher to 'them'>> <<set $p_hisher to 'their'>> <<set $p_hishers to 'theirs'>> <<set $p_himself to 'themself'>> <</if>>

Your gaze drifted over your face, taking note of the slight bags underneath your eyes, which were... <hr> ''[[☠︎︎ Blue|11.2][$eyes to "blue"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Brown|11.2][$eyes to "brown"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Hazel|11.2][$eyes to "hazel"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Green|11.2][$eyes to "green"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Dark Brown|11.2][$eyes to "dark brown"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Gray|11.2][$eyes to "gray"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Violet|11.2][$eyes to "violet"]]''

Your $eyes eyes are very beautiful, and it goes well with your hair. The color is... <hr> ''[[☠︎︎ Black|11.3][$haircolor to "jet black"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Dark Brown|11.3][$haircolor to "dark brown"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Chesnut|11.3][$haircolor to "chesnut"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Blonde|11.3][$haircolor to "blonde"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Dirty Blonde|11.3][$haircolor to "dirty blonde"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Platnium Blonde|11.3][$haircolor to "platnium blonde"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Ash Blonde|11.3][$haircolor to "ash blonde"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Ginger Red|11.3][$haircolor to "red"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Auburn|11.3][$haircolor to "auburn"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ None; I have no hair|11.5][$hair to "head"]]''

The color of your hair is $haircolor, and it is... <hr> ''[[☠︎︎ Short|11.4][$hairlength to "short"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Shoulder-length|11.4][$hairlength to "shoulder-length"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Waist-length|11.4][$hairlength to "waist-length"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Chin-length|11.4][$hairlength to "chin-length"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Shaved|11.4][$hairlength to "shaved"]]''

Your hair is $hairlength and $haircolor, and the texture of it is... <hr> ''[[☠︎︎ Straight|11.5][$texture to "straight"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Wavy|11.5][$texture to "wavy"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Curly|11.5][$texture to "curly"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Coiled|11.5][$texture to "coiled"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Kinky|11.5][$texture to "kinky"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Braided|11.5][$texture to "braided"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Locked|11.5][$texture to "locked"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Faded|11.5][$texture to "faded"]]''

You peered closely at the mirror, mindful of your height, which was... <hr> ''[[☠︎︎ Short|11.6][$height to "short"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Average|11.6][$height to "average"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Tall|11.6][$height to "tall"]]''

<span style = "color: #EE2737FF; font-size: 0.8em;" > ''[Personality Is Unlocked]''</span> You took a closer look at your figure, smiling softly at yourself. <hr> ''[[NEXT|you.]]'' <<set $personality to true>> <<set $chardes to true>>

Shaking your head, you left the store, your mind returning to Grim's disappearance. You absentmindedly rub the place where the black skull appeared on your body. Grim has never left your side before, and it almost seemed he had no "life." This was different, however, especially since there was no message left for you about him leaving. Maybe this was the day you were dreading. The day when he leaves. It was only a matter of time, and that time could've come. Although, there could be a chance of him returning, but you knew he would never tell you why he left. Being your $grimrolelow is not enough to share secrets. For him, secrets were taken to the grave. Though, he doesn't know how you felt. It has been nerve-racking to be alone after years of being with Grim. You thought you were in danger anytime he was not near, even if you'd been fine so far. Lost in your thoughts, you veered around a corner and collided with a hard figure. Grabbing the arms of the person in front of you to keep from falling, their large hands gripped your elbows. You looked down, your eyes catching a pair of tan, strong hands clutching your upper arms. Releasing a cool breath, you stepped back. You looked up, your eyes instantly meeting dark gray eyes. A sudden pulse electrocuted you, sending you flinching away from the person as he, in return, wrenched away from you. His touch momentarily felt like fire, but it didn't burn you as you would've thought. You didn't know the feeling, but it felt more than a shock. And you know he felt it too. His eyes locked in on you once more, confusion taking over them, and his hands clenched at his sides. His jaw tensed, and he appeared to be restraining himself before clouds covered his face and his body relaxed. You said… <hr> ''[[☠︎︎ "Sorry, I didn't mean to run into you."][$mstat to $mstat+3]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ "Please, watch where you're going."][$mstat to $mstat-3]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Remain silent.]]'' <<set $chardes to true>> <<set $personality to true>> <<set $mars to true>>

<<link "ARYN">><<script>>window.open('https://www.tumblr.com/blog/everythingisblue-if')<</script>><</link>>

<span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > CHARACTER DESCRIPTION </span> ''<<if $chardes is true>> ''Name:'' <span style = "color: #123456; font-size: 1.0em;" > ''$name $l_name'' </span> ''Gender:'' <span style = "color: #123456; font-size: 1.0em;" > ''$gender'' </span> ''Pronouns:'' <span style = "color: #123456; font-size: 1.0em;" > ''$pronoun'' </span> ''Appearance:'' <span style = "color: #123456; font-size: 1.0em;" > ''You stand at a $height height. You have $eyes eyes and $skin skin. You also have $haircolor, $hairlength, and $texture hair.'' </span> ''You've selected Grim as the role of:'' <span style = "color: #123456; font-size: 1.0em;" > ''$grimrole'' </span> <<else>> Your Character Description Is Locked<</if>>'' ''<<if $traits is true>> <span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > PERSONALITY TRAITS </span> <<else>> Personality Traits Is Locked<</if>> <hr> ''<<link "Return">><<goto$here>><</link>>'' <<script>>UIBar.stow()<</script>>

<span style = "color: #d6a34a; font-size: 1.0em;" > ''The Reaper Watches Me''</span> is rated MA-17 based on strong language, alcohol use, sexual themes, death, blood and gore. If you do no wish to continue, I advise you to exit the game. Or if you're comfortable with the warnings, you can'' [[continue.]]'' <<script>>UIBar.stow()<</script>>

Throughout the game, you will have stats to keep up with your progress. Two of these stats have indicators which are attached to some choices that will be displayed. <span style = "color: #d6a34a; font-size: 1.0em;" > ''ROMANCE''</span> ♡ Signals a romantic and intimate option ⓧ Signals a rude or dislikable option <span class="material-symbols-outlined"> heart_plus </span> Signals a romantic and intimate option <span class="material-symbols-outlined"> favorite </span> Signals a flirt option <span class="material-symbols-outlined"> cancel </span> Signals a rude or dislikable option ''[[Continue| <<script>>UIBar.stow()<</script>>

<span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > CHARACTER DESCRIPTION </span> $j_name Spencer was your childhood best friend, and is currently one of your closest friends. You grew up together until you moved away, but now you're back and you two are catching up. Usually here for laughs and being there for you, $j_heshe is the greatest companion for your adventures. <span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION </span> <<if $j_gender is 'female'>>$j_name stands at 5'7, but with a skinny build and pale skin. $j_caphisher blonde hair goes down to $j_hisher back, and it accentuates $j_hisher blue eyes.<</if>><<if $j_gender is 'male'>>$j_name stands at 6'0, but with a lanky build and pale skin. $j_caphisher blond hair goes down to $j_hisher shoulders in waves, and it accentuates $j_hisher blue eyes.<</if>><<if $j_gender is 'non-binary'>>$j_name stands at 5'8, but with a lanky build and pale skin. $j_caphisher blonde hair goes down to $j_hisher shoulders, and it accentuates $j_hisher blue eyes.<</if>> <span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > ''RELATIONSHIP POINTS: '' </span><span style = "color: white; font-size: 1.0em;" > ''$jstat%'' </span> <div class=“relationship”><progress @value=$jstat max=100></progress></div> <hr><center> ''<<back>>''</center> <<script>>UIBar.stow()<</script>>

<span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > CHARACTER DESCRIPTION </span> Marshall Taylor (A.K.A. Mars) is an Onlooker, able to see people marked by the Grim Reaper. He is stoic and usually withdrawn, unless it's towards his close family and friends. He despises the Grim Reaper, and tries to save everyone he could from him. <span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION </span> Mars stands at 6'1, with an athletic build and tan skin. He has gray eyes, dark brown hair which is faded at the sides and a stubble beard. <span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > ''RELATIONSHIP POINTS: '' </span><span style = "color: white; font-size: 1.0em;" > ''$mstat%'' </span> <div class=“relationship”><progress @value=$mstat max=100></progress></div> <hr><center> ''<<back>>''</center> <<script>>UIBar.stow()<</script>>

You have completed the first half of Chapter One. This is the current end of demo and now is a great place to<span style = "color: #d6a34a; font-size: 1.0em;" > ''save''</span> your position in the game, and return when the other half of the chapter is available. You can <span style = "color: #d6a34a; font-size: 1.0em;" > ''restart''</span> the game if needed, and if you have any comments or concerns about the game, you can fill out the form below: <<link "Comments and Concerns Form">><<script>>window.open('https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeUiJxJ2ppncKFtqhOqfE9cWGVkUzPtOZIbGT7Nn2nZvf09Fg/viewform?usp=sf_link')<</script>><</link>>

<center><span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.0em;" > ''The Reaper Watches Me''</span> is for readers 18+ based on: <span style = "color: #123456; font-size: 1.0em;" >''Strong Language''</span> <span style = "color: #123456; font-size: 1.0em;" >''Alcohol Use''</span> <span style = "color: #123456; font-size: 1.0em;" >''Sexual Themes''</span> <span style = "color: #123456; font-size: 1.0em;" >''Death''</span> <span style = "color: #123456; font-size: 1.0em;" >''Blood''</span> <span style = "color: #123456; font-size: 1.0em;" >''Gore''</span> More themes may be added as the game progresses. If you do not wish to continue, I advise you to exit the game. If you're comfortable with the warnings, you can ''continue.'' <hr> [[NEXT]] <<script>>UIBar.stow()<</script>> </center>

<center>Throughout the game, you will have stats to keep up with your progress. Two of these stats have indicators which are attached to some choices that will be displayed. <span style = "color: #EE2737FF; font-size: 1.0em;" > ''ROMANCE''</span> ♡ Signals a romantic and intimate option ⓧ Signals a rude or dis-likable option <hr> [[NEXT|Gender]] </center>

<center>What is your gender? <<listbox "$gender">> <<option 'Cis Female'>> <<option 'Cis Male'>> <<option 'Non-binary'>> <<option 'Trans Female'>> <<option 'Trans Male'>> <</listbox>> [[NEXT|pronoun]] </center>

<center>What are your pronouns? <<listbox "$pronoun">> <<option 'She/Her'>> <<option 'He/Him'>> <<option 'They/Them'>> <</listbox>> </center> <<if $j_person is true>>respond<<else>>responds<</if>>

"Sorry, I didn't mean to run into you," you said, your heart beating rapidly. It was the first time your eyes washed over the guy's face. His dark brown hair covered his forehead in fluffy wisps, with the sides of it shaved. His sharp jawline was covered in light stubble, accentuating his tan skin. He nodded, his face still cloudy. "It's fine." His voice was gruff, but light. Gulping quietly, you gave him a wry grin. "I think you shocked me a little, though." He sneered, stepping away from you, although, he nodded a little in agreement. "Yeah, I felt that, too." This stranger…you felt some magnetism to him. Strong waves rolled off of him, almost knocking you off balance. His cologne was strong, and you caught whiffs of it whenever he inched slightly closer to you. <hr> ''[[NEXT|13]]'' <<set $mars to true>>

"Please, watch where you're going," you said, your words a little cold. It was the first time your eyes washed over the guy's face. His dark brown hair covered his forehead in fluffy wisps, with the sides of it shaved. His sharp jawline was covered in light stubble, accentuating his tan skin. He smiled disparagingly, his face still cloudy. "I think you should take your own advice." His voice was gruff, but light. You gave him a contemptuous scowl. "You shocked me a little, though. I think an apology is owed." He sneered, stepping away from you. "Yeah, I felt that, too, but I think it's more of your fault." You blink at this stranger…and you felt some magnetism to him. Strong waves rolled off of him, almost knocking you off balance. His cologne was strong, and you caught whiffs of it whenever he inched slightly closer to you. <hr> ''[[NEXT|13.1]]'' <<set $mars to true>>

You stayed silent, your mouth closed tightly. You stared at him, and it was the first time your eyes washed over the man's face. His dark brown hair covered his forehead in fluffy wisps, with the sides of it shaved. His sharp jawline was covered in light stubble, accentuating his tan skin. He watched you, his face twisted in confusion. "I'm sorry…for bumping into you." His voice was gruff, but light. Gulping quietly, you gave him a wry grin. "I think you shocked me a little, though." He sneered, stepping away from you, although, he nodded a little in agreement. "Yeah, I felt that, too." This stranger…you felt some magnetism to him. Strong waves rolled off of him, almost knocking you off balance. His cologne was strong, and you caught whiffs of it whenever he inched slightly closer to you. <hr> ''[[NEXT|13]]'' <<set $mars to true>>

You chewed the inside of your cheek, chills running through you. You didn't know how to respond, because it feels like he knew Grim was there. But that couldn't be true. For years, you've been the only person to see and interact with him. Now, witnessing this person who seems to be looking right at Grim...you might not be so special after all. Releasing your cheek, you intended to give this guy a fake name, but you felt a compulsory urge to tell him the truth. A name far off from yours was on the tip of your tongue, but you swallowed it, letting honest words flow out of your mouth. "$name," you spat out. You trembled slightly, not sure what came over you at that moment, but you knew you must leave. The man took a tiny step forward, his brow furrowed. His mouth was slanted into a harsh line. "You can see him, can't you?" You bristle, wanting to object his claim. <hr> ''[["All I can see is you."]]'' ''[["See who?"]]'' ''[["What are you talking about?"]]'' ''[[Remain silent.|silent]]''

You stayed silent, not wanting to unknowingly give him more information. The man looked deeply inside your eyes, and you stared at him, watching his jaw tick. He jabbed a hardened finger over your shoulder. "Death," he glared at you. "Behind you. Following you." You didn't dare look back, knowing Grim was unmoving behind you, just as the man said. He crossed his arms, showing you a tattoo symbol on the underside of his left arm. "You noticed him. I seen it in your eyes. There's no point in lying or hiding it, just confess." <hr><center> ''[[NEXT|1.2]]''</center>

You shrunk under his gaze, your mind racing with a hundred different scenarios of how this could play out. Then, a voice called out through the air, releasing the tension. "Mars!" the steady voice yelled, which caught, whom you assume, Mar's attention. Without waiting for another burning question, you hurried away from him, slipping out of his hold, the warmth you felt fading away. But now, you were back in the familiar, cold enclave, which was Grim. Taking a deep breath, you tried to slow your beating heart, but your mind was full of thoughts. Who was he? Could he see Grim? //Could he see you?// The last thought was a spoken question to Grim, who floated further from you than usual. You looked back, bypassing Grim and seeing the space empty from where you left the guy. You rolled your shoulders, worry easing out of your body. But you wanted answers. <hr><center> ''[[NEXT|1.3]]''</center>

<center><span style = "color: white; font-size: 2.5em;" > ''Credits'' </span> <span style = "color: #123456; font-size: 1.5em;" > ''Creation, Coding, and Design'' </span> <span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.0em;" > ''Aryn'' </span> <span style = "color: #123456; font-size: 1.5em;" > ''Game Engine'' </span> <span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.0em;" > ''Twine v2.4.1 and SugarCube v2.36.1'' </span> <hr> ''<<link "Return">><<goto$here>><</link>>''</center> <<script>>UIBar.stow()<</script>>

"Could he see you?" You repeated. You hear Grim sigh through your mind, and you rub a hand over your forehand. "He was able to see me." Frustration bubbles up inside you, but you managed to push it down, only worrying about getting out of here. You all but run out of the mall, trying to create distance between you and Mars. You headed straight for the mall doors, pushing open the door. As you made your way to the parking lot, you walked past the parked cars, your feet carrying you to the bus stop. You didn't have a car, which was inconvenient, but you made it work by riding the bus. You slid across the bench beside the bus sign, placing your bag beside you. Grim crept in front of you, moving slowly as to not intimidate the beast. You looked up... <hr> ''[[Sighing, willing to hear him out.]]'' ''[[Glaring, angry that he's keeping more secrets.]]'' ''[[Nonchalant; you were confused, but didn't care as much.]]''

"What is your wish, human?" On the rocky ground, a man trembled at the feet of the darkness in front of him. Tears grazed his eyes and sweat covered his skin. He looked broken, or perhaps scared--terrified enough to do anything. The man's eyes were downcast, but when cool words were spoken to him, he shakily lifted them in order to make his plea. "I need you to help me," he weeped. The dark figure drifted closer, only for the crying man to flinch away. The figure cocked his head at the movement, but made no further attempts to surround the man. "Why do you need me," the gravelly whisperer asked. The man let his tears fall as he sat on his knees, hands clasped together in a prayer to the being. "My child--they're in danger," the man proclaimed. "I've seen it!" The being didn't answer, but a certain curiosity was peaked. The man clenched his fists against his thighs, twisting his face into somewhat a brave one. "Watch over them. Please." "What will you give me?" The figure asked. The man set his lips in a straight line as determination filled his eyes. "My soul."

*"It is time. This is your duty."* "I know, I know," a frustrated voice responded.

<span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 0.8em;" > CHAPTER I</span> <span style = "color: #123456; font-family: 'Bodoni Moda', serif; font-size: 1.3em;" > A PECULIAR CHARACTER </span> You stare into the mirror. You crane your neck up, seeing the straining muscles on your throat. The neckline of your rumpled night shirt was stretched to the side, revealing your taut collarbone. Your lips quiver slightly as you reach your hand up, gently touching the place where your neck meets your shoulder. Your hand shakes as your fingertips trace over your skin. Underneath your fingers was black ink that ran smoothly across your neck. The shape of the ink had your sleepy eyes blown wide, and had your mind spinning. //This wasn’t there before.// You chew your bottom lip, thoughtfully. The shape of the blotch was one of a skull. Small, but noticeable if you didn’t attempt to cover it. You press your thumb to the mark, rubbing it slowly. You pull your hand away, looking at the thumb that didn’t have any residual ink on it. Your eyes flit back up to the mirror, and you notice that the skull was gone. Your eyebrows raise, and you quickly lean forward, your hands bracing against the bathroom sink. You tilt your head to the side, attempting to locate it once more. Your fingers grasp at the skin once again, pulling at it. But it was gone. //I’m not crazy,// you think. The mark was as clear as day, covering up a small patch of your… <hr> ''[[☠︎︎ ivory skin|2][$skin to "ivory"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ porcelain skin|2][$skin to "porcelain"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ pale skin|2][$skin to "pale"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ beige skin|2][$skin to "beige"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ tan skin|2][$skin to "tan"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ tawny skin|2][$skin to "tawny"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ bronze skin|2][$skin to "bronze"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ umber skin|2][$skin to "umber"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ espresso skin|2][$skin to "espresso"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ cacao skin|2][$skin to "cacao"]]''

The mark stood out against your $skin skin in a way that would turn heads, no matter how little. You turn your head, trying to see if the mark moved to the other side of your neck. But no--all that was there was the clean, unmarked neck you went to bed with. Squeezing your eyes shut, you place your clammy hands over them, rubbing the heels of them intensely at your tear ducts, trying to chase away the sleep and the crust. Removing your hands, you blink rapidly, your vision blurry. This is because you… <hr> ''[[☠︎︎ Rubbed your eyes too hard, trying to understand what you were seeing.|2.1]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Took your glasses off, trying to understand what you were seeing.|2.2]]''

The blurriness from your eyes fade, giving you back clear vision. Staring in the mirror, your thoughts drift to your confusing and numbing morning. You began your morning with waking up with your sheets kicked off of your bed, your body sweating and the feeling of being lightheaded. This morning was different from the others. At first, you didn’t realize, but you witnessed how it was affecting you. You rolled nimbly out of bed, your bones heavy and your mouth dry. You dragged yourself to the bathroom, mumbling one word. //"Grim."// He was what was different from the other mornings. His presence was an overwhelming feeling--a feeling you've gotten used to. He gave air to a room, and without him, you felt as if you couldn't breathe. You were hyperventilating, the world turning upside down as your ears rung. Your mind was splitting apart once you reached inside the warm bathroom, your bare feet tripping on the cool tiles that felt like lava. He wasn't here. You blink, chasing away the memories from a few moments ago. You glance at your neck again through the mirror, sighing inwardly. There was something happening. Something that wasn't right. This morning wasn't right. <hr> ''[[NEXT|3]]''

You wipe your eyes again before grabbing your glasses from the sink. You push them up on the bridge of your nose, gaining back your clear vision. Staring in the mirror, your thoughts drift to your confusing and numbing morning. You began your morning with waking up with your sheets kicked off of your bed, your body sweating and the feeling of being lightheaded. This morning was different from the others. At first, you didn’t realize, but you witnessed how it was affecting you. You rolled nimbly out of bed, your bones heavy and your mouth dry. You dragged yourself to the bathroom, mumbling one word. //"Grim."// He was what was different from the other mornings. His presence was an overwhelming feeling--a feeling you've gotten used to. He gave air to a room, and without him, you felt as if you couldn't breathe. You were hyperventilating, the world turning upside down as your ears rung. Your mind was splitting apart once you reached inside the warm bathroom, your bare feet tripping on the cool tiles that felt like lava. He wasn't here. You blink, chasing away the memories from a few moments ago. You glance at your neck again through the mirror, sighing inwardly. There was something happening. Something that wasn't right. This morning wasn't right. <hr> ''[[NEXT|3]]'' <<set $glasses to true>>

A buzz cut through your thoughts, and your eyes snap to the threshold of your connecting bedroom and bathroom. You slowly walk to your room, your head still spinning. Your feet steps onto the brown carpet, the bristles tickling you. Your senses seemed to be heightened, as if Grim soothed them while he was present. Everything felt //more//, and you weren't sure how to cope in this moment. Suddenly, goosebumps crept along your arms, and tiny hairs rose as if commanded. At this moment, you could feel the weight of Death pricking at your skin. It was an indication of how you knew he was here. You stop walking, your head swinging around your room, trying to pinpoint your dark companion. But he wasn't there. Not even in his usual corner. Your mind drifts back to him--he was someone you couldn't shake. You feel him present, but maybe it's the trick of the mind. This was the first time you noticed him missing. You glance up for a second, looking at the corner he lurked in a few hours ago, watching you fall asleep. He was always here, sometimes inconveniently, wanting nothing more than to supervise you. This is new. <hr> ''[[NEXT|4]]''

<span style = "color: #EE2737FF; font-size: 0.8em;" > ''[Characters Is Unlocked]''</span> Another buzz sounds from your bed. You look at your bare bed and the sheets strewn over the floor. Sunlight streamed through your blinds, no curtains covering the yellow glare. You don't realize what time it is, but as your eyes went to the clock on your nightstand, you notice it was well into the afternoon. A vibration is issued once more, and you see your phone light up. You walk closer, crawling on the bed, reaching for your phone and seeing your friend's face fill the screen. You focus on $j_hisher picture for a second, gathering your thoughts and pushing them away. You clear your throat before clicking the answer button. "Hello?" You croak. You clear your throat once more after hearing the cracking in your voice. Your mouth was as dry as it was when you woke. You scoot back to your headboard, leaning onto it, your pillow comforting your lower back. You draw your knees up to your chest, fluttering your eyes close briefly. You hear shuffling through the phone, before $j_name speaks. "Hey…" //What is your name?// <hr> ''[[☠︎︎ Riley|5][$name to "Riley"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Dakota|5][$name to "Dakota"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Rowan|5][$name to "Rowan"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Sloan|5][$name to "Sloan"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Peyton|5][$name to "Peyton"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Briar|5][$name to "Briar"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Morgan|5][$name to "Morgan"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Taylor|5][$name to "Taylor"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ It's actually...|5.1]]'' <<set $just to true>> <<set $charmenu to true>> <<set $characters to true>>

<<textbox "$name" "">> <hr><center> ''[[NEXT|5]]''</center>

<<textbox "$l_name" "">> <hr><center> ''[[NEXT|5.3]]''</center>

//You've written that your name is $name $l_name. Is that correct?// <hr> ''[[☠︎︎ Yes.|6]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ No. Go back.|4]]''

"Wakey, wakey, $name. Are we still on for lunch today?" You groan silently, running a hand over your face. You begin climbing off your bed, side-stepping the sheets. You were a little disoriented today, your mind was in a haze. You rush to the wall, flicking up the light switch, illuminating your room. You wince slightly, but your eyes adjust quickly. "$name?" You snap back to reality, your phone slightly trembling in your hand. You grip it, tuning back into the present. "Yeah, sorry. I'll be there soon." $j_name pauses, as if $j_heshe <<if $j_person is true>>were<<else>>was<</if>> attempting to say something, but $j_heshe quickly <<if $j_person is true>>change<<else>>changes<</if>> $j_hisher mind. "Okay. I'll see you." You nod, knowing that $j_heshe couldn't see you. The phone clicks, indicating $j_heshe hung up. Sighing, you turn to your closet, eyeing the rows of clothing hanging. Your entire being vibrates with an unknown feeling, and you knew you needed to get your shit together. He's not required to be with you 24/7, but in the back of your mind, you wondered if what's happening to you stems from him. <hr> ''[[☠︎︎ Reminisce about your relationship with Grim.|7]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Find an outfit.|7.1]]''

As you stand in front of the closet, memories flutter through your mind. Your time with Grim has been an expansive one. Grim was there for you through thick and thin. Your mouth felt dry as you think on your childhood, believing he was an imaginary friend, but he slowly disproved himself as a figment of your imagination. You thought it would be an easy transition, but it wasn't. Your teen years were filled with thoughts of believing you were crazy and in need of help, but realized it was the norm. The normalization of Grim being everywhere you were, whether you liked it or not. You thought Grim was... <hr> ''[[☠︎︎ Your Protector][$grimrole to "Your Protector", $grimrolelow to "protector"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Your Second Parent][$grimrole to "Your Second Parent", $grimrolelow to "second parent"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Your Chaperone][$grimrole to "Your Chaperone", $grimrolelow to "chaperone"]]''

You shake your head, pushing away the thoughts of him. You understand that Grim may be the answers to your questions, but he was MIA. Furthermore, you should steer your mind to something more productive today. Seeing your friend. You stride to the closet, flicking through the rows of outfits. Your fingers trembled on the hangers, your head still in the clouds about Grim. You couldn't help but think about him. You thought Grim was... <hr> ''[[☠︎︎ Your Protector][$grimrole to "Your Protector", $grimrolelow to "protector"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Your Second Parent][$grimrole to "Your Second Parent", $grimrolelow to "second parent"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Your Chaperone][$grimrole to "Your Chaperone", $grimrolelow to "chaperone"]]''

You stare at your clothes, unfocused. You breathe in deeply, pulling yourself back into the present, away from your thoughts. You purse your lips, your eyes gliding over the numerous outfit choices you could wear. <hr> ''[[☠︎︎ Comfortable: a hoodie and sweatpants][$clothesb to "sweatpants", $clothest to "hoodie"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Chill: a t-shirt and jeans][$clothesb to "jeans", $clothest to "t-shirt"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Easy-going: a shirt and trousers][$clothesb to "trousers", $clothest to "shirt"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Sleek: a colorful dress][$clothesb to "dress", $clothest to "dress"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Stylish: a pair of shorts and a shirt][$clothesb to "shorts", $clothest to "shirt"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Cute: a shirt and a skirt][$clothesb to "skirt", $clothest to "shirt"]]''

<span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > CHARACTER DESCRIPTION </span> Grim is //the// Grim Reaper. He is the hooded figure faced the job of escorting souls into the underworld. However, it seems he's taken some years off to watch every move you've made since you were young. <span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION </span> Grim floats at 6'5, with unknown attributes to describe him. He wears a black hood, which constantly covers his face, and smoky tendrils always cascading around him. <span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > ''RELATIONSHIP POINTS: '' </span><span style = "color: white; font-size: 1.0em;" > ''$gstat%'' </span> <div class=“relationship”><progress @value=$gstat max=100></progress></div> <hr><center> ''<<back>>''</center> <<script>>UIBar.stow()<</script>>

You grab the outfit, pulling it off the white hanger. Tugging off your night clothes, you shrug on the $clothest and $clothesb. Slipping into your shoes, you take a deep breath before wandering out of your room. <hr> ''[[NEXT|9]]''

You grab the outfit, pulling it off the white hanger. Tugging off your night clothes, you shrug on the $clothest. Slipping into your shoes, you take a deep breath before wandering out of your room. <hr> ''[[NEXT|9]]''

<span style = "color: #bb1133; font-family: 'Bodoni Moda', serif; font-size: 1.3em;" > PROLOGUE </span> In the middle of the sidewalk stands a black phone booth, an onslaught of rain bearing down on it underneath the moonlight. Suddenly, a man comes rushing down the street, wet clothes sticking to his body. His mouth is slightly open, panting as he makes it to the booth. He tears open the door, closing it soundly behind him as he steps inside. He reaches a hand inside his trench coat pocket, revealing a quarter and a ripped piece of paper, damp from the rain. Written on the paper is a combination of numbers, a few smudged but intelligible. He presses his wet index finger to the telephone buttons, reciting the written numbers. He picks up the black phone, the cord wrapping around his forearm as he holds it to his ear. <hr> ''[[NEXT|0]]''

The rain begins to come down harder, with only the booth protecting him from the harsh downpour. His fingers gripped the phone tightly, the ringing from the phone transferring to his ear. He sniffed, waiting for the call to pick up--until he finally heard a click. He sighed, relief washing over him. "Gina," he breathed, his voice rough and tired. A moment of silence followed before a woman's voice answered in confusion. "Tom? What...? Where are you calling me from?" The man shook his head, glancing out the glass booth to see a dark figure slowly gliding closer to him. "That's not important." "Tom--" "I need a favor, Gina." Tom interrupts before he pauses, pursing his lips and watching the black ink spread past his wrist at a dreadful rate. Gina was quiet, waiting to hear the matter of Tom's favor. Tom unleashes a ragged breath, darting away from his arm, and ignoring the silhouette of the figure approaching. "I need you to look after $himher." A short gasp was heard through the line, and Tom squeezed his eyes shut, his heart beating erratically. "Tom…what's going on? Are you alright?" He sniffs again, shifting uncomfortably as the figure halts in front of the phone booth. Tom turns and gazes at it, scowling. He flexes his fingers on the phone. "Gina. No questions." Gina's voice was no longer heard after what Tom had said. However, she whispered lowly through the phone, her voice shaky and quiet. "...okay. Okay. Where?" "They're at home. I'm trusting you, Gina. Take care of $himher…please." Tom glances back at his arm, his fingertips gradually turning black. Tom hangs up the phone quickly, facing the figure. <hr> ''[[CHAPTER I|1]]''

The man reaches a hand up to your neck, and your eyes follow the steady movement. His hand lowers to the collar of your $clothest, which he tugs to the side, revealing the skin beneath. Your gaze drops down to the exposed skin, which was marred once again with the inky skull. The mark begins to burn slightly, stinging the skin around it. Your eyes flicker to the man's face, but he is already on yours. Recognition is what's stirring in his eyes. You instantly shrug off the man's hand, taking a step back. The skull grows hotter by the second. "It's a tattoo," you lie. You didn't know what it was, but that's the closest excuse to the truth—which you know nothing of. The corner of the man's lips rose slightly, giving you an imitation of a smirk. However, his grey eyes bore into yours in a way that didn't reflect his smile. "No, it's not." Your nerves begin to fire up with those words. Your chest began to burn hotter, which had you trying to force out your next words without gasping in pain. "Listen, I have to go." You stumble back, trying to find solace away from the man. He steps closer to you, his smile dropping and his lips forming a straight line. He lifts a hand, gesturing to the hidden mark. "It hurts, doesn't it?" He asks this gently, understandingly; you can hear the soft-spoken words through the loudness of the mall. Sweat beads at your temple as your vision becomes unfocused due to the pain building up and spreading throughout your body. You tell him... > "Only a little." > "Nope. Not at all." > "Oh god, yes."

You fiddled through the adornment of shirts on the metal rack, trying to ignore the events of hours before. And in return, your ears drowned out the conversation being relayed in front of you. One of your closest friends, $j_name, who was also the manager of the department store you were in, was complaining about $j_hisher monthly pay. You didn't pay that much attention, it was something $j_heshe talked about once in a while. And you always give $j_himher the same advice, but $j_heshe <<if $j_person is true>>have<<else>>has<</if>> yet to take it. "I spoke to the owner, and they told me that they can't give me a raise. I'm the manager, for fuck's sake," $j_name vented. You glanced at $j_himher as $j_heshe <<if $j_person is true>>hang<<else>>hangs<</if>> up clothes, and the glaze in your eyes faded as your mind came back to reality. $j_capheshe looked at you, $j_hisher eyebrow quirked in question. "What?" $j_capheshe asked. Taking a deep breath, you shrugged. You wandered over to a table covered in folded graphic shirts. "Nothing. Just thinking." Hanging up a sweater with a //clink//, $j_heshe turned to you. "Is this because of the money situation? Are you scolding me?" Chuckling under your breath, you gave $j_himher a small smile. Picking up a black shirt, you headed for the check-out counter, while $j_heshe followed you. "No, none of that. But you should listen to my advice sometimes." Walking behind the counter, $j_name took your shirt from your hands and scanned the tag. "I do listen, but no one is hiring right now, so this is all I got." $j_capheshe squinted at you, the corner of $j_hisher lips turning upwards. "But enough about me. What are you thinking about?" Subtly rolling your eyes, you observed a store gift card displayed on the counter, avoiding $j_hisher smirk. "Nothing. Just…life." //Grim.// "Ah," $j_heshe nodded, chuckling a little under $j_hisher breath. "Life in general or college life?" $j_capheshe bagged your shirt, tapping the check-out screen. You pulled out your wallet. "Neither." <hr> ''[[NEXT|10]]''

Looking at you with solemn eyes, $j_heshe gave you a small smile. "Were you okay earlier?" Leaning against the counter, you gave $j_himher a soft smile and handed $j_himher ten dollars. You sucked your teeth. "Yep. I was just feeling a little sick. I feel better now." $j_capheshe sighed, seeming relieved that it was nothing more. Maybe $j_name didn't like feeling helpless in your case, but you didn't know if you could help it. $j_capheshe printed out a receipt, throwing it in the bag. $j_capheshe pushed the bag across the counter, watching you pick it up. Tapping the counter, you backed away. "Ready to go?" You watch a few customers line up in front of the register and your eyes dart back to $j_name, only to see $j_himher preoccupied with another customer. You took a deep breath and clenched the bag in your hand. $j_name looks up at you helplessly. "Sorry, I have to take care of a few of these customers." "It's alright." After handing over a bag to a customer, $j_heshe looked back at you. "You can get us a table at the food court. I'll be there in a minute." <hr> ''[[NEXT|11]]''

You nodded at $j_himher, striding to the exit. "Yeah, okay. That's fine." You passed a full-length mirror on your way out of the store and hesitated for a second. You took in your appearance, your eyes accounting for every little thing about your look. <hr> ''[[NEXT|11.1]]''

"Sorry, I didn't mean to run into you," you said, your heart beating rapidly. It was the first time your eyes washed over the guy's face. His dark brown hair covered his forehead in fluffy wisps, with the sides of it shaved. His sharp jawline was covered in light stubble, accentuating his tan skin. He nodded, his face still cloudy. "It's fine." His voice was gruff, but light.The guy tensed, stepping closer to you, his chest almost touching yours. "Are you okay?" Gulping quietly, you gave him a grin, ignoring Grim's hovering. "Uh, yeah, I'm okay. I think you shocked me a little, though." He sneered, stepping away from you. Although, he nodded a little in agreement. "Yeah, I felt that, too." This stranger...you felt some magnetism to him. Strong waves rolled off of him, almost knocking you off balance. His cologne was strong, and you caught whiffs of it whenever he inched slightly closer to you.

After a moment of standing chest to chest with each other, the bag in your hand became heavy, and you came back to your senses. Gripping it tightly, you hitched your thumb towards the exit of the mall. "Um…I'm going to go now," you tell him. "Sorry, again, for bumping into you." Before you sidestep him, you felt his hand enclose your forearm, causing you to pause. You turned to him, cautiously taking your arm out of his hold. The look in his eyes was wild but still stone-cold. You raise your eyebrows, feeling awkward but wondering why he stopped you. "Wait," you heard him mumble under his breath, which you had to strain to hear. You leaned your head forward, waiting for more, but then you realized his narrowed eyes weren't focused on you. They were directed to your neck. <hr> ''[[NEXT|14]]''

The man reaches a hand up to your neck, and your eyes follow the steady movement. His hand lowers to the collar of your $clothest, which he tugs to the side, revealing the skin beneath. Your gaze drops to the exposed skin, which was marred once again with the inky skull. The mark begins to burn slightly, stinging the surrounding skin, as if exposing it made it angry. Your eyes flicker to the man's face, but his are already on yours. Recognition is what's stirring in his eyes. You instantly shrug off the man's hand, taking a step back. The skull grows hotter by the second. "It's a tattoo," you lie. You didn't know what it was, but that's the closest excuse to the truth—which you know nothing of. The corner of the man's lips rose slightly, giving you an imitation of a smirk. However, his gray eyes bore into yours in a way that didn't reflect his smile. "No, it's not." Your nerves begin to fire up with those words. Your chest began to burn hotter, which had you trying to force out your next words without gasping in pain. "Listen, I have to go." You stumble back, trying to find solace away from the man. He steps closer to you, his smile dropping and his lips forming a straight line. He lifts a hand, gesturing to the hidden mark. "It hurts, doesn't it?" He asks this gently, understandingly; you can hear the soft-spoken words through the loudness of the mall. Sweat beads at your temple as your vision becomes unfocused due to the pain building up and spreading throughout your body. This felt worse than this morning, and your pain only doubled every nanosecond that this guy is looking at the mark. You were mere seconds awway from combustion...in the mall. How embarrassing would that be? You tell him… <hr> ''[[☠︎︎ "Only a little."|15]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ "Nope. Not at all."|15]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ "Oh god, yes."|15]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ "I don't know what you're talking about."|15]]''

You open your mouth to respond, but only a small cry erupts from it. The man looks around, his eyes darting across the mall until his eyes light up. He reaches out and grabs your wrist. "Follow me. I can help." You couldn't reject his request even if you tried, as your mouth was dry and your throat felt constricted. The man breaks out into a fast walk, pulling you behind him as you both weave through the number of shoppers. Your eyes were watering, and you couldn't see as he pulled you into an large, empty store, the tired cashier the only one present. "Welcome to Fashion Fiends," the cashier says lacklusterly. "If you need--" You didn't stay to hear the rest as the man drags you to the corner of the open space, away from the windows and behind a clothing rack. You gasped for breath, pulling at your $clothest, wanting to take every article of clothing off. Everything was too hot, too blinding. Your blood was boiling, and the perspiration on your body was an effect of that. You grasp the hem of your $clothest, attempting to take it off, but calloused hands stopped your movements. You hiss painfully, glancing up, looking at nothing but darkness in front of you, your vision shot as you're momentarily blind. "Shit. Sorry." The words tumble out of the man's mouth as you feel his hand removed from your body. <hr> ''[[NEXT|16]]''

"I'm gonna have to touch you. So, please, bear with me," he whispers so the cashier doesn't hear. The man steps closer to you, pulling back your collar once more, hissing once he reveals it. You glance down, noting how inflamed your skin appears, the skull being the center of it. The man presses a cool hand to your forehead, feeling the heat radiating from you. He looks you in the eye, his face settling into a cold mask. "How long have you been like this?" You shake your head, feeling overwhelmed by the heat. You couldn't think straight, and you're unsure of how you perceive his words. "How do you...?" He shakes his head, some of his brown strands falling onto his forehead. "Later. Answer me." I squeeze my eyes shut tightly, remembering. "Last night…morning. I don't know…it's…" "All blurry?" The man finished the sentence for you, and you nod. "Here," he says, pulling back your collar further and placing a hand on the skull. "//Sol calefacit cranium//." A burst of cold air surrounds you, and it feels like you are a dog with its head out of a car window going 100 miles per hour. You feel as if you're in a refrigerator covered in ice. You feel better than before. You sigh raggedly, slumping against the man. Your eyes droop as the man holds you up. "No time for sleep. We still need to talk," he grunts. You perk up, suddenly realizing that this man helped you…but how did he help you. You stumble up, backing away from him. He arms fall to his side, his eyes shining with interest. You look down at your collarbone, seeing the skull is still heavily present, but the heat from it has disappeared. You look up at the man in disbelief. <hr> ''[[☠︎︎ "How did you do that?"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ "Was that...a spell?"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Silently freak out.]]''

You stay quiet, your mind going on a frenzy. The man clicked his tongue, lifting his hand to move back his shirt, showing you an identical black skull. You gasp, and he lets go of the shirt. "Maybe this should clear up your confusion." You gape at him as he continues. "But I've never seen a case as severe as yours. Nor have I ever...seen you." You ignore his thoughts and point at his neck, where he revealed his matching tattoo. "Where did you get that? Where did I get mine?" The man cocked his head, his gaze burning into yours. His eyebrows furrow as he inspects you. A moment of silence is issued before he concludes. "You don't know anything, do you?" You purse your lips, your hand clenching into a fist behind you. "I know that I was almost burnt alive by this...thing that suddenly appeared on me a couple of hours ago." The man's eyebrows harden into harsh slants. He began glowering down at you. "That //'thing'// is the epitome of everything we stand for. Everything we do to protect you." He scoffs, shaking his head. "Well, not you, huh? Because you're one of us. //You// should do everything to protect //them//." Your brows furrow, your lips pressed together tightly as your thoughts swirl. You throw your hands up, confused by the bizarre words coming out of his mouth. You whisper loudly, your voice strenghtening. "What are you even talking about? Who is 'them'? Who is 'we'?" <hr> ''[[NEXT|17]]''

"How did you do that?" The man clicked his tongue, lifting his hand to move back his shirt, showing you an identical black skull. You gasp, and he lets go of the shirt. "I've had practice." You gape at him as he continues. "But I've never seen a case as severe as yours. Nor have I ever...seen you." You ignore his thoughts and point at his neck, where he revealed his matching tattoo. "Where did you get that? Where did I get mine?" The man cocked his head, his gaze burning into yours. His eyebrows furrow as he inspects you. A moment of silence is issued before he concludes. "You don't know anything, do you?" You purse your lips, your hand clenching into a fist behind you. "I know that I was almost burnt alive by this...thing that suddenly appeared on me a couple of hours ago." The man's eyebrows harden into harsh slants. He began glowering down at you. "That //'thing'// is the epitome of everything we stand for. Everything we do to protect you." He scoffs, shaking his head. "Well, not you, huh? Because you're one of us. //You// should do everything to protect //them//." Your brows furrow, your lips pressed together tightly as your thoughts swirl. You throw your hands up, confused by the bizarre words coming out of his mouth. You whisper loudly, your voice strenghtening. "What are you even talking about? Who is 'them'? Who is 'we'?" <hr> ''[[NEXT|17]]''

"Was that...a spell?" The man sighed. "Yes. Latin." You press forward, your mind still in shock. "What does it mean?" The man clicked his tongue, lifting his hand to move back his shirt, showing you an identical black skull. You gasp, and he lets go of the shirt. //"'The sun warms the skull'."// You gape at him as he continues. "But I've never seen a case as severe as yours. Nor have I ever...seen you." You ignore his thoughts and point at his neck, where he revealed his matching tattoo. "Where did you get that? Where did I get mine?" The man cocked his head, his gaze burning into yours. His eyebrows furrow as he inspects you. A moment of silence is issued before he concludes. "You don't know anything, do you?" You purse your lips, your hand clenching into a fist behind you. "I know that I was almost burnt alive by this...thing that suddenly appeared on me a couple of hours ago." The man's eyebrows harden into harsh slants. He began glowering down at you. "That //'thing'// is the epitome of everything we stand for. Everything we do to protect you." He scoffs, shaking his head. "Well, not you, huh? Because you're one of us. //You// should do everything to protect //them//." Your brows furrow, your lips pressed together tightly as your thoughts swirl. You throw your hands up, confused by the bizarre words coming out of his mouth. You whisper loudly, your voice strenghtening. "What are you even talking about? Who is 'them'? Who is 'we'?" <hr> ''[[NEXT|17]]''

The man tensed. "We're the balancers of death." You raise your brows, conflicted about the information he's giving you. The skull on your neck suddenly stings at his words, like it knows what the words mean. Your eyes focuses on his neck where his skull sits, similar to yours. Your mind starts to swirl again, and it seems like a common event since your day began. //Balancers of death.// //You're one of us.// //Grim.// //$name?// //GRIM!// Your thoughts are a jumbled mess. //You don't know anything, do you?// Time stops. You guess you don't know anything. //...Grim?// The man speaks again, his voice lowering more after your moment of silence. "That little mark on your neck isn't going away." You blink, your eyes focusing again to find the man staring intently at you. "It left earlier today." He scoffs. "It won't anymore." How does he know what he does? You're out of the loop, and that's something you don't like to feel often. "I don't understand." He gives you a sinister smile. "You've been marked by death. That will never go away." <hr> ''[[NEXT|18]]''

You chewed the inside of your cheek, chills running through you. You didn't know how to respond, but your thoughts went to Grim. That couldn't be true. For years, the skull never showed. But for years, Grim never left... The man's eyes roamed your face before he spoke, which sent shivers down your spine. "Who are you?" You purse your lips, your eyes gliding over his muscled figure. "Tell me more about what you're telling me." The man quirked a brow. "Tell me your name." ''[[> Tell him your name]]'' ''[[> Refuse]]'' ''[[> Give him a fake name]]''

You cross your arms over your chest, defiant.

This is the end of the demo and now is a great place to<span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.0em;" > ''save''</span> your position in the game to return. You can <span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.0em;" > ''restart''</span> the game if needed, and if you have any comments or concerns about the game, you can fill out the form below: <hr> <<link "Questions, Comments, and Concerns Form">><<script>>window.open('https://forms.gle/yvCFhTtgEvc54kij9')<</script>><</link>>

<span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 0.8em;" > MEMORY</span> <span style = "color: #123456; font-size: 1.3em;" > AGE 16 </span> <<if $j_gender is 'male'>> //You smile shyly at the boy in front of you. Patrick Livingston. Someone you’ve admired from afar is at your doorstep after a perfect night out. You couldn’t help but freak out on the inside. You bite back another smile from your inner monologue, finally tuning into the words Patrick was relaying to you. “—so, would you?” You raise your eyebrows, your brain coming back from the fog. “‘Would I’ what?” Patrick smiled, darting his eyes to the ground, kicking over a pebble with his foot. He runs a hand over the back of his neck, gifting you a haughty smile once he looks back up. “Would you like to kiss me?” Your eyes bulge out of your head as you interpret the words you hear coming out of Patrick Livingston’s mouth. “Uh,” you gape. “…Yes.” Patrick’s smile is brighter than ever as he mumbles the word ‘cool.’ He leans forward, his eyes already closing. You hold your breath, watching his mouth come into close contact with yours. You feel giddy inside. That is until you spot Grim floating behind Patrick, his black, wispy tendrils surrounding him. You turn your head better to look at him, your eyes wide. You raise your hand, gesturing at him in a swatting motion, begging him to leave. Then, you feel the touch of smooth lips pressed against the corner of your mouth. The kiss did not hit its target. Patrick opens his eyes and backs away quickly. He frowns, clearing his throat. “Sorry, if I made you uncomfortable.” You glance away from Grim, holding out your hands in front of you. “Oh no, you didn’t. I’m sorry, this is my fault.” He gives you a tight-lipped smile, before nodding. He turns away and your heart sinks. He looks over his shoulder at you. “Bye, $name.” Your body crumples as you watch him walk away. You groan, covering your face with your hands. You feel Grim drift closer to you, and you sigh. “Damn it.” //“Language.”// The cool voice answers inside of your head. You whip your head towards him, sending him daggers. You scoff, turning away and marching through the door, giving him a piece of your mind. “I can’t believe you would do…”// <</if>><<if $j_gender is 'female'>>//You smile shyly at the girl in front of you. Patricia Livingston. Someone you’ve admired from afar is at your doorstep after a perfect night out. You couldn’t help but freak out on the inside. You bite back another smile from your inner monologue, finally tuning into the words Patricia was relaying to you. “—so, would you?” You raise your eyebrows, your brain coming back from the fog. “‘Would I’ what?” Patricia smiled, darting her eyes to the ground, kicking over a pebble with her foot. She runs a hand over the back of her neck, gifting you a haughty smile once she looks back up. “Would you like to kiss me?” Your eyes bulge out of your head as you interpret the words you hear coming out of Patricia Livingston’s mouth. “Uh,” you gape. “…Yes.” Patricia’s smile is brighter than ever as she mumbles the word ‘cool.’ She leans forward, her eyes already closing. You hold your breath, watching her mouth come into close contact with yours. You feel giddy inside. That is, until you spot Grim floating behind Patricia, his black, wispy tendrils surrounding him. You turn your head better to look at him, your eyes wide. You raise your hand, gesturing at him in a swatting motion, begging him to leave. Then, you feel the touch of smooth lips pressed against the corner of your mouth. The kiss did not hit its target. Patricia opens her eyes and backs away quickly. She frowns, clearing her throat. “Sorry, if I made you uncomfortable.” You glance away from Grim, holding out your hands in front of you. “Oh no, you didn’t. I’m sorry, this is my fault.” She gives you a tight-lipped smile, before nodding. She turns away and your heart sinks. She looks over her shoulder at you. “Bye, $name.” Your body crumples as you watch her walk away. You groan, covering your face with your hands. You feel Grim drift closer to you, and you sigh. “Damn it.” //“Language.”// The cool voice answers inside your head. You whip your head towards him, sending him daggers. You scoff, turning away and marching through the door, giving him a piece of your mind. “I can’t believe you would do…”// <</if>><<if $j_gender is 'non-binary'>>//You smile shyly at the person in front of you. Patrick Livingston. Someone you’ve admired from afar is at your doorstep after a perfect night out. You couldn’t help but freak out on the inside. You bite back another smile from your inner monologue, finally tuning into the words Patrick was relaying to you. “—so, would you?” You raise your eyebrows, your brain coming back from the fog. “‘Would I’ what?” Patrick smiled, darting their eyes to the ground, kicking over a pebble with their foot. They run a hand over the back of their neck, gifting you a haughty smile once they look back up. “Would you like to kiss me?” Your eyes bulge out of your head as you interpret the words you hear coming out of Patrick Livingston’s mouth. “Uh,” you gape. “…Yes.” Patrick’s smile is brighter than ever as they mumble the word ‘cool.’ They lean forward, their eyes already closing. You hold your breath, watching their mouth come into close contact with yours. You feel giddy inside. That is, until you spot Grim floating behind Patrick, his black, wispy tendrils surrounding him. You turn your head better to look at him, your eyes wide. You raise your hand, gesturing at him in a swatting motion, begging him to leave. Then, you feel the touch of smooth lips pressed against the corner of your mouth. The kiss did not hit its target. Patrick opens their eyes and backs away quickly. They frown, clearing their throat. “Sorry, if I made you uncomfortable.” You glance away from Grim, holding out your hands in front of you. “Oh no, you didn’t. I’m sorry, this is my fault.” They give you a tight-lipped smile, before nodding. They turn away and your heart sinks. They look over their shoulder at you. “Bye, $name.” Your body crumples as you watch them walk away. You groan, covering your face with your hands. You feel Grim drift closer to you, and you sigh. “Damn it.” //“Language.”// The cool voice answers inside your head. You whip your head towards him, sending him daggers. You scoff, turning away and marching through the door, giving him a piece of your mind. “I can’t believe you would do…”// <</if>> <hr> ''[[NEXT|20]]'' <<set $grim to true>> <<set $m16 to true>> <<set $memory to true>>

<span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > MEMORIES </span> ''<<if $m9 is true>><span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.0em" > ''[[AGE 9]]'' </span><<else>>Locked<</if>> <<if $m10 is true>><span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.0em" > ''[[AGE 10]]'' </span><<else>>Locked<</if>> <<if $m11 is true>><span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.0em" > ''[[AGE 11]]'' </span><<else>>Locked<</if>> <<if $m12 is true>><span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.2em" > ''[[AGE 12]]' </span><<else>>Locked<</if>> <<if $m13>><span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.2em" > ''[[AGE 13]]'' </span><<else>>Locked<</if>> <<if $m14 is true>><span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.0em" > ''[[AGE 14]]'' </span><<else>>Locked<</if>> <<if $m15 is true>><span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.0em" > ''[[AGE 15]]' </span><<else>>Locked<</if>> <<if $m16 is true>><span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.0em" > ''[[AGE 16]]'' </span><<else>>Locked<</if>> <<if $m17 is true>><span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.2em" > ''[[AGE 17]]'' </span><<else>>Locked<</if>> <<if $m18>><span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.2em" > ''[[AGE 18]]'' </span><<else>>Locked<</if>> <<if $m19 is true>><span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.0em" > ''[[AGE 19]]' </span><<else>>Locked<</if>> <<if $m20 is true>><span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.0em" > ''[[AGE 20]]'' </span><<else>>Locked<</if>> <<if $m21 is true>><span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.0em" > ''[[AGE 21]]'' </span><<else>>Locked<</if>>'' <hr><center> ''<<link "Return">><<goto$here>><</link>>''</center> <<script>>UIBar.stow()<</script>>

<span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.3em;" > AGE 16 </span> //''POP!''// //You burrow yourself deeper underneath your blanket, your bed creaking under your weight. The sound of the fireworks surprise you, leaving gasping softly everytime the noise pops off. You feel tiny teardrops form at the corner of your eyes, and you sniff, blinking away the wetness. Another firework explodes and you whimper softly, squeezing your eyes shut.// "$name...," //you hear the whisper in your head.// //Your eyes open, raising your head gently, your hand wiping the underside of your nose. "Grim?" You ask shakily.// //You lift the corner of your blanket, slowly pulling it off of your head. Your eyes immediately dart to the corner of your room where Grim hovers. The chilly atmosphere that he created oddly calmed you.// "Would you care to hear a story?" //Your eyebrows furrow as you stare at him, before slowly nodding your head. Grim drifts closer to you, black tendrils spreading around him.// "There was a little $kidgen who was creative, intelligent, and incredibly lucky." //"Lucky?" You murmur, your interests peaked.// //Grim stops right at the edge of your bed. You stare up into his hood, meeting nothing more than darkness.// "The $kidgen had a lucky life. $capitalheshe <<if $t_gender is true>>were<<else>>was<</if>> predestined for great things. Things that would change the world." //The noise from the fireworks drifted off into the distance as you pay close attention to the story being told in front of you.// "$capitalheshe wouldn't let any fear terrorize $himher. And even the fears $heshe still harbored, $heshe would forge through them." //"Even fears of fireworks?" Your lips twisted, anxious for Grim to answer you. // "Even them," //he replies cooly inside your mind.// "$capitalheshe <<if $t_gender is true>>were<<else>>was<</if>> lucky enough to live fear free. $capitalhisher friends were proud, $hisher family was proud." //You bit down on your bottom lip, chewing it thoughtfully before you blurt out your next question. "...was $hisher father proud?" Grim went silent after, as if contemplating on a way to answer your question. Just when you think his words are coming to your mind, your grandma opens your bedroom door, carrying a bowl. She smiles at you gently, her $haircolor hair curled to perfection, bouncing along as she walks over to you. "Here, sweetie, I got you apple slices to calm your nerves," she smies, presenting the bowl of apple slices. You glance at the foot of your bed to notice Grim disappeared...something he does whenever your grandma comes around. You give your grandma a tiny smile before taking the bowl from her hands. "Thanks, grandma." She wipes her palms down the front of her pants, a worried twinkle in her eye. "Of course. If you need anything, I'm right down the hall as always." You nod at her, not saying a word as she leaves your room, closing the door behind her.// <hr><center> ''<<back>>''</center>

<span style = "color: #6667AB; font-size: 1.3em;" > AGE 16 </span> <<if $j_gender is 'male'>> //You smile shyly at the boy in front of you. Patrick Livingston. Someone you’ve admired from afar is at your doorstep after a perfect night out. You couldn’t help but freak out on the inside. You bite back another smile from your inner monologue, finally tuning into the words Patrick was relaying to you. “—so, would you?” You raise your eyebrows, your brain coming back from the fog. “‘Would I’ what?” Patrick smiled, darting his eyes to the ground, kicking over a pebble with his foot. He runs a hand over the back of his neck, gifting you a haughty smile once he looks back up. “Would you like to kiss me?” Your eyes bulge out of your head as you interpret the words you hear coming out of Patrick Livingston’s mouth. “Uh,” you gape. “…Yes.” Patrick’s smile is brighter than ever as he mumbles the word ‘cool.’ He leans forward, his eyes already closing. You hold your breath, watching his mouth come into close contact with yours. You feel giddy inside. That is, until you spot Grim floating behind Patrick, his black, wispy tendrils surrounding him. You turn your head better to look at him, your eyes wide. You raise your hand, gesturing at him in a swatting motion, begging him to leave. Then, you feel the touch of smooth lips pressed against the corner of your mouth. The kiss did not hit its target. Patrick opens his eyes and backs away quickly. He frowns, clearing his throat. “Sorry, if I made you uncomfortable.” You glance away from Grim, holding out your hands in front of you. “Oh no, you didn’t. I’m sorry, this is my fault.” He gives you a tight-lipped smile, before nodding. He turns away and your heart sinks. He looks over his shoulder at you. “Bye, $name.” Your body crumples as you watch him walk away. You groan, covering your face with your hands. You feel Grim drift closer to you, and you sigh. “Damn it.” //“Language.”// The cool voice answers inside your head. You whip your head towards him, sending him daggers. You scoff, turning away and marching through the door, giving him a piece of your mind. “I can’t believe you would do…”// <</if>><<if $j_gender is 'female'>>//You smile shyly at the girl in front of you. Patricia Livingston. Someone you’ve admired from afar is at your doorstep after a perfect night out. You couldn’t help but freak out on the inside. You bite back another smile from your inner monologue, finally tuning into the words Patricia was relaying to you. “—so, would you?” You raise your eyebrows, your brain coming back from the fog. “‘Would I’ what?” Patricia smiled, darting her eyes to the ground, kicking over a pebble with her foot. She runs a hand over the back of her neck, gifting you a haughty smile once she looks back up. “Would you like to kiss me?” Your eyes bulge out of your head as you interpret the words you hear coming out of Patricia Livingston’s mouth. “Uh,” you gape. “…Yes.” Patricia’s smile is brighter than ever as she mumbles the word ‘cool.’ She leans forward, her eyes already closing. You hold your breath, watching her mouth come into close contact with yours. You feel giddy inside. That is, until you spot Grim floating behind Patrick, his black, wispy tendrils surrounding him. You turn your head better to look at him, your eyes wide. You raise your hand, gesturing at him in a swatting motion, begging him to leave. Then, you feel the touch of smooth lips pressed against the corner of your mouth. The kiss did not hit its target. Patricia opens her eyes and backs away quickly. She frowns, clearing her throat. “Sorry, if I made you uncomfortable.” You glance away from Grim, holding out your hands in front of you. “Oh no, you didn’t. I’m sorry, this is my fault.” She gives you a tight-lipped smile, before nodding. She turns away and your heart sinks. She looks over her shoulder at you. “Bye, $name.” Your body crumples as you watch her walk away. You groan, covering your face with your hands. You feel Grim drift closer to you, and you sigh. “Damn it.” //“Language.”// The cool voice answers inside your head. You whip your head towards him, sending him daggers. You scoff, turning away and marching through the door, giving him a piece of your mind. “I can’t believe you would do…”// <</if>><<if $j_gender is 'non-binary'>>//You smile shyly at the person in front of you. Patrick Livingston. Someone you’ve admired from afar is at your doorstep after a perfect night out. You couldn’t help but freak out on the inside. You bite back another smile from your inner monologue, finally tuning into the words Patrick was relaying to you. “—so, would you?” You raise your eyebrows, your brain coming back from the fog. “‘Would I’ what?” Patrick smiled, darting their eyes to the ground, kicking over a pebble with their foot. They run a hand over the back of their neck, gifting you a haughty smile once they look back up. “Would you like to kiss me?” Your eyes bulge out of your head as you interpret the words you hear coming out of Patrick Livingston’s mouth. “Uh,” you gape. “…Yes.” Patrick’s smile is brighter than ever as they mumble the word ‘cool.’ They lean forward, their eyes already closing. You hold your breath, watching their mouth come into close contact with yours. You feel giddy inside. That is until you spot Grim floating behind Patrick, his black, wispy tendrils surrounding him. You turn your head better to look at him, your eyes wide. You raise your hand, gesturing at him in a swatting motion, begging him to leave. Then, you feel the touch of smooth lips pressed against the corner of your mouth. The kiss did not hit its target. Patrick opens their eyes and backs away quickly. They frown, clearing their throat. “Sorry, if I made you uncomfortable.” You glance away from Grim, holding out your hands in front of you. “Oh no, you didn’t. I’m sorry, this is my fault.” They give you a tight-lipped smile, before nodding. They turn away and your heart sinks. They look over their shoulder at you. “Bye, $name.” Your body crumples as you watch them walk away. You groan, covering your face with your hands. You feel Grim drift closer to you, and you sigh. “Damn it.” //“Language.”// The cool voice answers inside your head. You whip your head towards him, sending him daggers. You scoff, turning away and marching through the door, giving him a piece of your mind. “I can’t believe you would do…”// <</if>> <hr><center> ''<<back>>''</center>

You stare at the man for a minute, gathering your thoughts. Marked by death? Impossible. It doesn’t make sense to you. You reach up and rub the skull absentmindedly, thinking about Grim as always. Could he be behind this? Grim is the “living” definition of death, and he’s been with you for years. All of this is making your thoughts circle the hooded figure that’s been missing since the early hours of the morning. //I know he's the answer//, you think. A loud buzz interrupts your thoughts, and your eyes snap to the man, your waist vibrating loudly. You glance away, your tingly hand fishing your vibrating phone out of your pocket. Once again, $j_name’s face fills your screen with a call. Glancing back at the man to find him coldly watching you, you answer the call, putting the phone up to your ear. “Hello?” You can hear the loudness of the food court in the background before $j_name’s voice fills up the space. “$name, where were you?” You click your tongue, taking in your surroundings. Questionable lingerie and skimpy clothing adorn the mannequins and racks around you. “Uh...currently at Fashion Fiends," you state, recalling the name the cashier threw at you. $j_name is silent for a moment before $j_heshe respond. “Very funny, I know that's not the type of store you would involve yourself in. I thought you were going to save us a table. For lunch? Remember?” You groan silently, rubbing your forehead and ignoring the man’s silent stare. “$j_name, yeah, I’m sorry. I got preoccupied with something.” You can practically see $j_name’s disapproving face through the phone about your time management issues. $j_name's never one to forget that amount of times you’ve been late to events. Including what happened this morning. “$name. You know you can tell me anything. Is it about Gina?” You shake your head, biting down on your bottom lip as you quickly try to clear things up. "No, no, grandma's fine. It's just...rough right now." You look once again at the man who’s looking bored with each passing second. You wanted answers, but on the other hand, would everything be better by being blissfully ignorant? "I want to respect your privacy. And I know we just got back into the swing of things, but you know you can trust me--" "Yeah!" You immediately say. "I know, $j_name, and I do. I just need to sort some things out." You can hear $j_name sigh through the phone, whether a sigh of relief or annoyance, you don't know. You then hear $j_himher scoff out a laugh. "Another $l_name secret. There's so many of those from what I hear. But it must be important if you're roped into it, too." Your brows furrow at $j_hisher words, your head cocking to the side a little. "$j_name?" "Stay safe, and I hope you're doing alright. If you want to try to hang out again, let me know." You mumble out a soft 'okay,' and then the call ends. Your eyes flutter close as you take in the memory of $j_name's tone of voice and the words they illicited. Pulling your phone from your ear, your eyes meet the man's once more, your focus on something else entirely. Which was getting answers from him. <hr> ''[[NEXT|☠︎︎ Get answers from the man.]]''

Once again placing your phone into your pocket, you square your shoulders, looking at the man right in the eyes. “What’s your name?” The man crosses his arms over his chest, his muscles rippling. “Marshall. But some call me Mars.” You nod, testing the way his name rolls off your tongue. “Mars.” Mars almost growls at you. “Marshall.” You fight the urge to roll your eyes and lean your back against the clothing rack. “I’m $name.” You stayed with him to ask questions, but there are so many, you were not sure where to begin. <hr> <<if $choice1 is true>> ''ASKED''<<else>>''[[☠︎︎ "Why am I marked by death?"]]''<</if>> <<if $choice2 is true>> ''ASKED''<<else>>''[[☠︎︎ "How do you know about this?"]]''<</if>> <<if $choice3 is true>> ''ASKED''<<else>>''[[☠︎︎ "You said I should protect them. What does that mean?"]]''<</if>> <<if $choice4 is true>> ''ASKED''<<else>>''[[☠︎︎ "How long have you had the skull?"]]''<</if>> <<if $choice5 is true>> ''ASKED''<<else>>''[[☠︎︎ "How did you find me?"]]''<</if>> //''[[If you are done asking questions, click here.|19]]''//

Your eyes flick up to the man's, before sighing into the phone that you'll be there soon. $j_name sounds more happy once you declare that you're coming, and explains $j_hisher area in the food court. Ending the call, you square your shoulders, looking at the man right in the eyes. “What’s your name?” The man crosses his arms over his chest, his muscles rippling. “Marshall. But some call me Mars.” You nod, testing the way his name rolls off your tongue. “‘Mars’.” Mars almost growls at you. “Marshall.” You fight the urge to roll your eyes and lean your back against the closet rack. “I’m $name.” ''[[NEXT|19.1]]''

Mars cocks his head, looking at you squarely. “It’s determined by generation.” You furrow your brows, confused by his answer. “‘Generation’?” He nods, pulling his shirt back once more to show the small, black skull still ever so present on his skin. You lean forward, to get a closer look at it, even though you have a similar one. He releases his hand and the shirt pops black into place, making you jump a little. “Think of it as an inheritance. You inherited this mark from a parent, but this is thousands of years of inheritance.” Memories flood you of your parents, and nothing this suspicious has ever come up. You never met your mom, with her dying during childbirth. And your father…disappeared when you were young, but he might as well be dead. It’s all blurry, but you remember sitting at home alone and seeing your grandmother barge into the house, her face flushed. She instantly ran over to you, hugging you tightly, then ushering you to pack your things. After that night, you never really thought of your father, as if he never existed. This was the only memory you had concerning him. You open your mouth, the trance subsiding as you gaze at Mars. “My father…could he…?” Mars’s eyes look solemn now, as if he understood what happened inside your head. “Mine was inherited from my father, so it could be possible. But inheritance goes both ways.” Your eyes feel wet, but you blink back the tears, clearing your throat to ask the next question. <hr><center> ''[[NEXT QUESTION|☠︎︎ Get answers from the man.]]''</center> <<set $choice1 to true>>

Mars sighs, his eyes rolling to the ceiling as he thinks about the question. He holds out his hand, lifting his fingers one at a time, counting down. He then stops, looking back at you. “Twelve years.” You almost choke as you stare at him, dumbfounded. “Twelve years?” He shrugs, nodding. “You receive the mark on your twelfth birthday.” Dread seeps into the back of your head. “But I’m not twelve.” “Yes, which is why your situation is highly unusual to me.” <hr><center> ''[[NEXT QUESTION|☠︎︎ Get answers from the man.]]''</center> <<set $choice4 to true>>

Mars lolled his head as if mulling over what he should tell you. He pushes his curly head back with his hand, showing you the entirety of his face. His hand drops and he hesitates his next words. “You’re meant to be trained at a young age to face this…development.” You snort at his use of words, knowing that this was more than a development. He ignores you, continuing. “My father taught my sister and me about combat, knowledge, and history. We had to be ready to face the challenges that would come once we received the mark. And as you know, the time did come, and so did the challenges.” You stay quiet, thinking about what he told you. He’s being very vague, but maybe he’ll tell you all the details soon because you’re eager to hear them. <hr><center> ''[[NEXT QUESTION|☠︎︎ Get answers from the man.]]''</center> <<set $choice2 to true>>

Mars's eyes roam the length of your body, with a cold, unwavering gaze. The gaze is not lustful, but it’s calculating. “For people like us, we’re calling cards for others to find each other.” You bite your lip. “What do you mean?” He points a finger toward you. “I wasn’t looking for you, but you have the appeal of an Onlooker, therefore, I was attracted to you.” Your eyes widen, but he shakes his head. “Not that kind of attraction. Every Onlooker is connected, and we know how to find each other out on the street or somewhere because a spark ignites.” You frown, thinking back to the way you found Mars. It was as if electricity was running through you once you came into contact. “Like what happened to you,” you mumble. Out of the corner of your eye, Mars nods. “The moment I touched you, I knew you were one of us. But I had to make sure you had the mark before I made assumptions.” You crane your neck up at him. “Speaking of that, you’ve been mentioning the word ‘Onlookers.’ What is that?” Mars smirks, their eyes full of knowing. “I’ll tell you in due time.” <hr><center> ''[[NEXT QUESTION|☠︎︎ Get answers from the man.]]''</center> <<set $choice5 to true>>

Mars jabs a finger towards your neck, gesturing at the mark. “That is there for a reason. And that reason is to protect others who don’t have it.” You almost scoff at his words. “So, what? We’re supposed to protect humans?” Mars rolls his eyes. “Don’t be an idiot. //We’re// humans. But we’re supposed to protect people who don’t have the abilities we have. We have a gift, and we use it for good and for the safety of others.” <hr><center> ''[[NEXT QUESTION|☠︎︎ Get answers from the man.]]''</center> <<set $choice3 to true>>

You sigh, your shoulder deflating. “So…what comes next?” Mars hovers over you, a dangerous glint in his eyes. “What’s next is introductions and more answers.” You wring your hands, a little nervous. “Introductions?” He shrugs, reaching behind you to press a hand to the rack railing, trapping you between him and the rack. “It’s not just me running this show. And I’m sure the others can tell you much more than I can.” “The others?” Mars leans back, dropping his arm back to his side. You stumble forward awkwardly from the loss of closeness. However, Mars grips your upper arm, hauling you up before you hit the floor. “My crew.” <hr> ''[[NEXT|M16]]''

<center>Next, choose the gender for the gender-selectable character <hr> ''[[☠︎︎ Justin - Male][$j_gender to "male", $j_name to "Justin", $j_gen to "man", $j_heshe to "he", $j_capheshe to "He", $j_caphisher to "His", $j_himher to "him", $j_hisher to "his", $j_hishers to "his", $j_himself to "himself"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Justine - Female][$j_gender to "female", $j_name to "Justine", $j_gen to "woman", $j_heshe to "she", $j_capheshe to "She", $j_caphisher to "Her",$j_himher to "her", $j_hisher to "her", $j_hishers to "hers", $j_himself to "herself"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Justice - Non-binary][$j_gender to "non-binary", $j_name to "Justice", $j_gen to "person", $j_capheshe to "They", $j_caphisher to "Their",$j_heshe to "they", $j_himher to "them", $j_hisher to "their", $j_hishers to "theirs", $j_himself to "themself"]]''</center>

<center>Next, choose the gender for the last gender-selectable character: Parker <hr> ''[[☠︎︎ Male][$p_gender to "male", $p_name to "Parker", $p_gen to "man", $p_heshe to "he", $p_himher to "him", $p_hisher to "his", $p_hishers to "his", $p_capheshe to "He", $p_caphisher to "His", $p_himself to "himself"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Female][$p_gender to "female", $p_name to "Parker", $p_gen to "woman", $p_heshe to "she", $p_himher to "her", $p_hisher to "her", $p_hishers to "hers", $p_capheshe to "She", $p_caphisher to "Her", $p_himself to "herself"]]'' ''[[☠︎︎ Non-binary][$p_gender to "non-binary", $p_name to "Parker", $p_gen to "person", $p_heshe to "they", $p_himher to "them", $p_hisher to "their", $p_capheshe to "They", $p_caphisher to "Their", $p_hishers to "theirs", $p_himself to "themself"]]''</center>

<center><span style = "color: #EE2737FF; font-size: 2.0em;" >[[BEGIN GAME|Prologue]]</span> </center> <<script>>UIBar.stow()<</script>>

<center><span style = "color: #EE2737FF; font-size: 2.0em;" >[[BEGIN GAME|Prologue]]</span> </center> <<script>>UIBar.stow()<</script>> <<set $p_person to true>>

<center>Before you begin, you will need to select your choice of gender and pronouns, including the genders of the gender-selectable romance options. //<span style = "color: white; font-size: 1.0em;" > What is your choice of gender?</span>// <hr> ''[[Female|pronouns][$gender to "female", $adultgen to "woman", $kidgen to "girl", $kidsgen to "girls", $adultsgen to "women", $wfriend to "girlfriend"]]'' ''[[Male|pronouns][$gender to "male", $adultgen to "man", $kidgen to "boy", $kidsgen to "boys", $adultsgen to "men", $wfriend to "boyfriend"]]'' ''[[Non-binary|pronouns3][$gender to "nonbinary", $adultgen to "person", $kidgen to "people", $kidsgen to "person", $adultsgen to "people", $wfriend to "partner"]]''</center>

<center>//<span style = "color: white; font-size: 1.0em;" > What is your choice of pronouns?</span>// <hr> ''[[she/her|J Gender][$pronoun to "she/her", $heshe to "she", $capitalheshe to "She", $hisher to "her", $hishers to "hers", $capitalhisher to "Her", $himher to "her", $capitalhimher to "Her", $capitalhishers to "Hers", $himselfherself to "herself", $capitalhimselfherself to "Herself"]]'' ''[[he/him|J Gender][$pronoun to "he/him", $heshe to 'he', $capitalheshe to 'He', $hisher to 'his', $hishers to 'his', $capitalhisher to 'His', $himher to 'him', $capitalhimher to 'Him', $capitalhishers to 'His', $himselfherself to 'himself', $capitalhimselfherself to 'Himself']]'' ''[[they/them|J Gender][$pronoun to "they/them", $heshe to 'they', $capitalheshe to 'They', $hishers to 'theirs', $hisher to 'their', $capitalhisher to 'Theirs', $himher to 'them', $capitalhimher to 'Them', $capitalhishers to 'Theirs', $himselfherself to 'themselves', $capitalhimselfherself to 'Themselves']]'' ''[[xe/xem|J Gender][$pronoun to "xe/xem", $heshe to 'xe', $capitalheshe to 'Xe', $hishers to 'xyrs', $hisher to 'xyr', $capitalhisher to 'Xyr', $himher to 'xem', $capitalhimher to 'Xem', $capitalhishers to 'Xyrs', $himselfherself to 'xyrself', $capitalhimselfherself to 'Xyrself']]'' ''[[ey/em|J Gender][$pronoun to "ey/em", $heshe to 'ey', $capitalheshe to 'Ey', $hishers to 'Eirs', $hisher to 'eir', $capitalhisher to 'Eir', $himher to 'em', $capitalhimher to 'Em', $capitalhishers to 'Eirs', $himselfherself to 'emself', $capitalhimselfherself to 'Emself']]'' ''[[zie/zim|J Gender][$pronoun to "zie/zim", $heshe to 'zie', $capitalheshe to 'Zie', $hishers to 'zis', $hisher to 'zir', $capitalhisher to 'Zir', $himher to 'zim', $capitalhimher to 'Zim', $capitalhishers to 'Zis', $himselfherself to 'zieself', $capitalhimselfherself to 'Zieself']]''</center>

After a moment of standing chest to chest with each other, the bag in your hand became heavy, and you came back to your senses. Gripping it tightly, you hitched your thumb towards the exit of the mall. "I'm going to go now," you tell him. "Pay attention the next time you bump into someone." Before you sidestep him, you felt his hand enclose your forearm, causing you to pause. You turned to him, cautiously taking your arm out of his hold. The look in his eyes was wild but still stone-cold. You raise your eyebrows, feeling awkward but wondering why he stopped you. "Wait," you heard him mumble under his breath, which you had to strain to hear. You leaned your head forward, waiting for more, but then you realized his narrowed eyes weren't focused on you. They were directed to your neck. <hr> ''[[NEXT|14]]''

You wave your phone at him, indicating the call that was just made. "I have to go." "I'll go with you," he says without missing a beat. You sigh, shaking your head, your shoulders deflating. "What just happen is a...sensitive subject. Something my friend cannot hear about." Mars strides over to you, a dangerous glint in his eyes. He hovers over you. “Here's what'll next: introductions and more answers.” You wring your hands, a little nervous. “Introductions?” He shrugs, reaching behind you to press a hand to the rack railing, trapping you between him and the rack. “It’s not just me running this show. And I’m sure the others can tell you much more than I can.” “The others?” Mars leans back, dropping his arm back to his side. You stumble forward awkwardly from the loss of closeness. However, Mars grips your upper arm, hauling you up before you hit the floor. “My crew.” ''[[NEXT|M16]]''

<span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 0.8em;" > CHAPTER II</span> <span style = "color: #123456; font-family: 'Bodoni Moda', serif; font-size: 1.3em;" > SHADE </span> You look at Mars, studying the intensity in his eyes as he mentions his crew. You nod slowly, trying to process everything that's happening. "Your crew?" You repeat, feeling a mix of curiosity and caution creeping up inside you. Mars nods, his expression unreadable as he watches your reaction. "The Onlookers. We see what others can't or won't. And we take action where needed." His grip on your arm loosens slightly, but his eyes remain fixed on yours, searching for any hint of understanding. As you take in his words, a shiver runs down your spine, a cold chill settling in the air around you. The mention of the Onlookers and their mysterious purpose sends a wave of unease through you, though you can't deny the intrigue tugging at your curiosity. "That’s a very vague description, don’t you think?" You ask softly, almost to yourself. Mars simply inclines his head, a ghost of a smile playing on his lips before it fades away once more into his usual stoic demeanor. Mars steps back, releasing your arm. “The mystery is part of the allure,” Mars replies, his tone as enigmatic as ever. “Vague is necessary in our line of work. You’ll understand more once you meet the others.” His words were very cryptic, as if he’s a human fortune cookie, with no means of giving you a straightforward answer. However, you did appreciate the questions he had answered beforehand, but you could tell this was something different. <hr> ''[[NEXT|21]]''

You didn’t have a lot of time to think on Mars’s aura, as a sudden shift in the air makes you shiver. The fluorescent lights above begin to flicker erratically, casting eerie shadows of yourself and Mars along the walls of the deserted store. Mars narrows his eyes at the lights, his composure faltering for a fleeting moment before he regains control. The atmosphere crackles with an otherwordly energy, something that feels so familiar, but so different. Goosebumps appear along your arms, and you have to hold in a gasp as the air around you drops, becoming cold in an instant. “$name.” //“$name”// Two versions of your name spill into your ear, and you wonder if Mars heard, as he spoke one of the versions. The other is known to you, deep inside. The whisper of Grim. You turn your head sharply, searching for the source of the second voice that echoed in your mind. Mars stands in front of you, his gaze fixed on something over your shoulder, beyond your sight. The air feels heavy with an unspoken tension, as if the fabric of reality itself is about to tear open. This was not familiar. "$name," Mars repeats, his voice barely above a whisper, but it reverberates through the empty store. You can see a flicker of uncertainty in his usually composed expression. It's as though even he isn't sure what is unfolding before you. <hr> ''[[NEXT|23]]''

The skull tattoo on your neck tingles, a prickling sensation that hints at something ominous lurking nearby. You reach out, instinctively seeking Mars' arm for reassurance, but before your fingertips can graze his skin, a sudden gust of icy wind blasts through the store. Clothes rustle like ghostly whispers around you as the fluorescent lights overhead burst with a shower of sparks, plunging the room into darkness. In the blackness, you hear the cashier of the storm scream suddenly, before your mind automatically drowns them out. “Shit,” you hear Mars whisper in the darkness. You blink, trying to adjust your vision, even though you know nothing was going to help you see in the dark. You teeter, realizing that you’re crouched in an uncomfortable position on the floor. You reach out a hand, pressing it against the cool tile floor. “What’s going on?” You whisper, hoping Mars is still there to hear you. You strain your ears in the darkness, but all you can hear is the sound of your own breathing and the faint hum of an emergency light somewhere in the distance. Panic begins to bubble up inside you, threatening to overwhelm your senses. You feel a hand brush against your wrist in the darkness, enclosing around it, warm and steady. It's Mars, his touch grounding you in the chaos surrounding you. "We need to get out of here," Mars's voice cuts through the darkness, firm and urgent. You nod, feeling his hand tighten around yours as he helps you to your feet. The air feels heavy with an unseen presence, and the sensation of danger lingers like a shadow at the edge of your consciousness. This isn’t what Grim feels like, you know it. Everything felt off the minute you heard his voice whisper your name. Your inner thoughts are strewn in your mind as you stumble towards what you hope is the exit, guided only by Mars's unwavering grip on your hand. As you make your way through the pitch-black store, a sense of foreboding grows within you, a primal instinct warning you of an unseen threat lurking in the darkness. A low, guttural growl pierces the silence, sending another shiver down your spine. It's not Mars, and it's not something human. The sound reverberates in the confined space, bouncing off the walls like a menacing echo. Your heart is pounding in your chest like a drumbeat of dread. Mars stops in his rush, diverting his path to a different area inside the store. “Going with Plan B.” Mars pulls you behind a clothing rack, his movements swift and calculated. Another growl bounces off the store walls. <hr> ''[["What is that?"]]'' ''[["What's Plan B?"]]'' ''[[You stay quiet.]]''

“What is that?” You pant out quietly. Mars doesn’t answer as he crouches quietly next to you. You begin to wonder why he’s so silent during this situation, until you hear tiny whispers coming from him. You try to stay alert with what Mars is saying, but also listening intently as heavy footsteps approach. The scent of decay and earth fills the air, and a cold presence wraps around you like a suffocating mist. Through the gaps in the rack, you catch a glimpse of glowing amber eyes, unnatural and intense in their gaze. A figure emerges from the shadows, towering and cloaked in darkness. Its form is hulking, distorted, and brimming with an unknown aura that sends a wave of terror crashing over you. //“Cerebrum usque ad curem, vultus super te.”// You whip your head to Mars as his whispers grow, and you can finally understand him. Wait. You can understand him? The foreign language he speaks warps inside of your head, translating it into something you can understand. How? //Skull to skin, looking over you.// Another spell of his? As long as it helps you in this situation, you don’t mind what he’s doing. “Mars? Are you here?” A deep voice echoed throughout the store, and Mars stops his chanting. “We heard you—oh, fuck.” <hr> ''[[NEXT|24]]''

“What's Plan B?” You pant out quietly. Mars doesn’t answer as he crouches quietly next to you. You begin to wonder why he’s so silent during this situation, until you hear tiny whispers coming from him. You try to stay alert with what Mars is saying, but also listening intently as heavy footsteps approach. The scent of decay and earth fills the air, and a cold presence wraps around you like a suffocating mist. Through the gaps in the rack, you catch a glimpse of glowing amber eyes, unnatural and intense in their gaze. A figure emerges from the shadows, towering and cloaked in darkness. Its form is hulking, distorted, and brimming with an unknown aura that sends a wave of terror crashing over you. //“Cerebrum usque ad curem, vultus super te.”// You whip your head to Mars as his whispers grow, and you can finally understand him. Wait. You can understand him? The foreign language he speaks warps inside of your head, translating it into something you can understand. How? //Skull to skin, looking over you.// Another spell of his? As long as it helps you in this situation, you don’t mind what he’s doing. “Mars? Are you here?” A deep voice echoed throughout the store, and Mars stops his chanting. “We heard you—oh, fuck.” <hr> ''[[NEXT|24]]''

Mars crouches quietly next to you. You begin to wonder why he’s so silent during this situation, until you hear tiny whispers coming from him. You try to stay alert with what Mars is saying, but also listening intently as heavy footsteps approach. The scent of decay and earth fills the air, and a cold presence wraps around you like a suffocating mist. Through the gaps in the rack, you catch a glimpse of glowing amber eyes, unnatural and intense in their gaze. A figure emerges from the shadows, towering and cloaked in darkness. Its form is hulking, distorted, and brimming with an unknown aura that sends a wave of terror crashing over you. //“Cerebrum usque ad curem, vultus super te.”// You whip your head to Mars as his whispers grow, and you can finally understand him. Wait. You can understand him? The foreign language he speaks warps inside of your head, translating it into something you can understand. How? //Skull to skin, looking over you.// Another spell of his? As long as it helps you in this situation, you don’t mind what he’s doing. “Mars? Are you here?” A deep voice echoed throughout the store, and Mars stops his chanting. “We heard you—oh, fuck.” <hr> ''[[NEXT|24]]''

The creature looms just over the rack you’re hiding behind, its skin sickly grey, stretched tight over sharp bones that jut out at odd angles. A tangle of ark, matted hair frames its twisted face, contorted into a menacing snarl that reveals rows of jagged teeth. Your heart races in your chest as fear grips you tightly, but Mars remains eerily calm beside you. You hear a bit of rustling before a woman’s voice chirps in. “Sable, hurry up and get out the Anima Tenetur.” “I’m trying,” a flustered voice responds. More shuffling and zipping is heard before he continues. “The zipper was stuck. Here.” A humming noise is heard from a few feet away from you, and your forehead creases, as the creature recoils from the sound. The noise intensifies, and instantly, the store is filled with a bright, white light. You barely have time to close your eyes as you’re almost blinded. When you finally open your eyes, the store is devoid of any trace of the creature that had loomed over you just moments before. You sit up slowly, your heart still thundering in your chest as you take in your surroundings. Mars is beside you, his posture relaxed but his eyes scanning the area warily. "What was that?" You manage to whisper again, your voice still trembling from the recent terror. Mars turns to you, his expression unreadable. "That was a Shade," he says curtly. "They are mimicking, cursed souls that feed on fear and despair." //Mimicking?// You purse at the thought of what might have happened if Mars hadn't been there to protect you. The image of those glowing amber eyes sends a chill down your spine. “That’s it? No more explanation to my reality that has gone complete horror movie?” “Whoa, Mars. If you needed to have a moment alone, you could’ve told us.” <hr> ''[[NEXT|25]]''

You whip your head around, your eyes coming in contact at the three dark figures who you assume are your saviors. Mars grunts, standing up from his crouched position. Without sparing you a glance, he reaches out a hand to you, and even though you purse your lips, you accept it gratefully. He pulls you into a standing position, immeadiately letting go of your hand. You turn to stand face to face with…acquaintances of Mars. You squint, trying to make out any details of the people before you. Even though your vision’s terrible, your hearing is great. You pick up on the sound of the unzipping of a zipper once more. A click is heard, and then a bright flash blinds me. “Ah,” you unconsicously wince, convering your eyes with your hands. “Crap, I’m sorry,” an apologetic voice shouts. The flashlight that blinded you is turned down a few notches, making it more bearable for you to see again. The light from the flashlight illuminates the faces of the strangers standing before you. They are a mismatched trio--a girl with sharp, calculating eyes, another with a nervous energy about him, and the third exuding a quiet confidence that belied $p_hisher young age. You realize these must be the other members of Mars's “crew”, the Onlookers. The one with the flashlight steps forward, his gaze nervous. His curly red hair is sticking up in various sections, the flashlight reflecting off his black, thick-rimmed glasses. "I'm Sable," he says, his voice slightly shaky. "Sorry for the flash. It’s a bit…dark in here." You glance at your dark surroundings, before nodding in understanding. Mars also nods in acknowlegement as he takes in the group before him, his expression unreadable. “Thanks for the backup,” he murmurs, his voice still laced with tension from the recent encounter with the Shade. The one exuding quiet confidence speaks next, $p_hisher voice differing from $p_hisher stance, as it’s suave and steady. "You called, we came. I was able to finish my food at the court.” $p_capheshe <<if $p_person is true>>glance<<else>>glances<</if>> at you, $p_hisher pale skin smooth and fair. <<if $p_person is true>>$p_caphisher wavy, black hair falls onto $p_hisher forehead, and $p_hisher toned muscles are noticeable.>><<else>>$p_caphisher cropped, black hair falls onto $p_hisher forehead, and $p_hisher muscles seen through $p_hisher black shirt.<</if>> “I'm Parker," $p_heshe <<if $p_person is true>>introduce<<else>>introduces<</if>> $p_himself smoothly, a reassuring smile on $p_hisher face. "And who might you be? Mars’s long lost $wfriend?" <hr> ''[[ⓧ "That's not what's going on here."][$mstat to $mstat-3]]'' ''[["I'm not with Marshall..."]]'' ''[[♡ "Something like that."][$mstat to $mstat+3]]'' ''[["I just met Marshall."]]'' <<set $sable to true>> <<set $parker to true>>

You frown at Parker's teasing words, but you shake your head, trying to dispel the embarrassment. "I'm $name," you say softly, glancing at Mars briefly before focusing on the trio in front of you. "And that's not what's going on here. At all. Nothing." Parker whistles lowly, scratching the back of $p_hisher head, a smirk on $p_hisher face. “That's some heavy denial.” The girl with sharp eyes steps forward, her gaze assessing and calculating. Her features are striking, and familiar, framed by long, dark hair cascading down her back. Her expression is one of curiosity mixed with caution. She extends her hand towards you with a small smile. "I'm Mariana," she introduces herself crisply. "Nice to meet you, $name." You exchange a firm handshake with Mariana, feeling a sense of camaraderie among the group despite the unsettling events that just transpired. Her gaze flickers between you and Mars before settling on him. “We have work to do,” she addresses him. “Sable?” Sable perks up once his name is spoken. “Oh, right.” He struggles with his bookbag again as he rummages through the gadgets, stopping once he finds the right one. He produces a short, metal pole from the bag, a red dot blinking on top of it. He steps closer to you, holding the pole a few inches between your eyes. You flinch back slightly due to the short distance between you. Suddenly, Mars grabs Sable’s wrist, lowering the pole, giving Mariana nothing short of a glare. “We’re not erasing $hisher memory.” You blink, incredulous. “I’m sorry, what?” <hr> ''[[NEXT|26]]'' <<set $mariana to true>>

You purse your lips at Parker's teasing words, but you shake your head, trying to dispel the embarrassment. "I'm $name," you say softly, glancing at Mars briefly before focusing on the trio in front of you. "And I'm not with Marshall." Parker whistles lowly, scratching the back of $p_hisher head, laughing a bit. //“Marshall…”// The girl with sharp eyes steps forward, her gaze assessing and calculating. Her features are striking, and familiar, framed by long, dark hair cascading down her back. Her expression is one of curiosity mixed with caution. She extends her hand towards you with a small smile. "I'm Mariana," she introduces herself crisply. "Nice to meet you, $name." You exchange a firm handshake with Mariana, feeling a sense of camaraderie among the group despite the unsettling events that just transpired. Her gaze flickers between you and Mars before settling on him. “We have work to do,” she addresses him. “Sable?” Sable perks up once his name is spoken. “Oh, right.” He struggles with his bookbag again as he rummages through the gadgets, stopping once he finds the right one. He produces a short, metal pole from the bag, a red dot blinking on top of it. He steps closer to you, holding the pole a few inches between your eyes. You flinch back slightly due to the short distance between you. Suddenly, Mars grabs Sable’s wrist, lowering the pole, giving Mariana nothing short of a glare. “We’re not erasing $hisher memory.” You blink, incredulous. “I’m sorry, what?” <hr> ''[[NEXT|26]]'' <<set $mariana to true>>

You feel a blush creeping up your neck at Parker's teasing words, but you shake your head, trying to dispel the embarrassment. "I'm $name," you say softly, glancing at Mars briefly before focusing on the trio in front of you. "Something like that..." Mars turns to you, his eyes widening slightly. Parker whistles lowly, scratching the back of $p_hisher head, a smirk on $p_hisher face. “Looks like someone tied boss man down.” Mars's nostrils flares. "There's nothing going on." The girl with sharp eyes steps forward, her gaze assessing and calculating. Her features are striking, and familiar, framed by long, dark hair cascading down her back. Her expression is one of curiosity mixed with caution. She extends her hand towards you with a small smile. "I'm Mariana," she introduces herself crisply. "Nice to meet you, $name." You exchange a firm handshake with Mariana, feeling a sense of camaraderie among the group despite the unsettling events that just transpired. Her gaze flickers between you and Mars before settling on him. “We have work to do,” she addresses him. “Sable?” Sable perks up once his name is spoken. “Oh, right.” He struggles with his bookbag again as he rummages through the gadgets, stopping once he finds the right one. He produces a short, metal pole from the bag, a red dot blinking on top of it. He steps closer to you, holding the pole a few inches between your eyes. You flinch back slightly due to the short distance between you. Suddenly, Mars grabs Sable’s wrist, lowering the pole, giving Mariana nothing short of a glare. “We’re not erasing $hisher memory.” You blink, incredulous. “I’m sorry, what?” <hr> ''[[NEXT|26]]'' <<set $mariana to true>>

You feel a blush creeping up your neck at Parker's teasing words, but you shake your head, trying to dispel the embarrassment. "I'm $name," you say softly, glancing at Mars briefly before focusing on the trio in front of you. "And I just met Marshall." Parker whistles lowly, scratching the back of $p_hisher head, a smirk on $p_hisher face. //“Marshall...”// The girl with sharp eyes steps forward, her gaze assessing and calculating. Her features are striking, and familiar, framed by long, dark hair cascading down her back. Her expression is one of curiosity mixed with caution. She extends her hand towards you with a small smile. "I'm Mariana," she introduces herself crisply. "Nice to meet you, $name." You exchange a firm handshake with Mariana, feeling a sense of camaraderie among the group despite the unsettling events that just transpired. Her gaze flickers between you and Mars before settling on him. “We have work to do,” she addresses him. “Sable?” Sable perks up once his name is spoken. “Oh, right.” He struggles with his bookbag again as he rummages through the gadgets, stopping once he finds the right one. He produces a short, metal pole from the bag, a red dot blinking on top of it. He steps closer to you, holding the pole a few inches between your eyes. You flinch back slightly due to the short distance between you. Suddenly, Mars grabs Sable’s wrist, lowering the pole, giving Mariana nothing short of a glare. “We’re not erasing $hisher memory.” You blink, incredulous. “I’m sorry, what?” <hr> ''[[NEXT|26]]'' <<set $mariana to true>>

Mars's jaw tightens, his eyes moving from Mariana, locking onto Sable's as he speaks with an edge of impatience in his voice. "For $himher, this is a different situation," he says firmly, the tension in the room palpable as the group exchanges uncertain glances. Sable looks sheepish, stammering out an apology. "I-I was just following protocol, Mars. I didn't mean to overstep." Mars releases Sable's wrist, a silent warning in his gaze before he turns to you. "Forgive the mistake. It's been a long day," he explains, though you can sense there's more left unsaid. Parker chimes in with a grin. "Well, now that we're all acquainted and no memories need erasing, how about we grab something to eat? My treat." $p_caphisher tone is light but inviting, a hint of mischief glinting in $p_hisher eyes. The tension in the room eases as Parker's offer hangs in the air, breaking the heavy atmosphere that lingered. Your brows raise. “I feel like the memory erasing is definitely something that needs to be discussed.” Sable shifts uncomfortably, adjusting his glasses nervously. "I-I just thought..." He trails off under the collective gaze of the group, realizing his mistake. Mariana clears her throat, looking apologetic. "Sorry about that. It's just habit for us when civilians get involved." Mars steps forward, cutting a glance to you. “There’s no civilians involved in this situation. Only Onlookers.” The group tenses, their eyes falling onto you. “$capitalhimher?” Parker exclaims. Mariana smacks $p_himher in the arm before smiling at you, however wavering. “$name is…” Mars turns to you, pulling back your collar, which has Sable lifting the flashlight to shine on your neck. He gasps quietly, an Parker clicks $p_hisher tongue, letting out a silent ‘woah.’ “A special case,” Mars clarifies. <hr> ''[[NEXT|27]]''

You freeze as the group's eyes fixate on the small skull tattoo on your neck, now illuminated by the flashlight. You swallow nervously, feeling a mix of curiosity and apprehension at the attention directed at you. Mariana is the first to break the silence that hangs heavy in the air. "A special case," she repeats, her voice betraying a hint of concern as she meets your gaze with a mix of wariness and intrigue. "That mark... it's not something we see on just anyone everyday. Besides looking in the mirror." Sable nods in agreement, his earlier nervousness replaced by a newfound focus. "It's rare," he adds softly, adjusting his glasses with shaky fingers, unconciously rubbing his neck where his own mark would be. "Like, really rare." Parker's usual playfulness is replaced by a seriousness that mirrors the gravity of the situation. "Why haven’t we met you before?" $p_capheshe <<if $p_person is true>>ask<<else>>asks<</if>>, $p_hisher tone softer than before. As the weight of their gazes bears down on you, you shift uncomfortably under the sudden spotlight. You reach up to touch the small skull tattoo on your neck, you eyes flickering between each member of the group. “It just appeared on me this morning, so…I don’t know.” The group’s eyes widen at my response, their brows raising. Parker cocks $p_hisher head. “For curiosity, how old are you?” “Older than twelve, which is when the mark appears,” Mariana says. <hr> ''[["I'm eightteen."][$age to "eightteen", $college to "freshman"]]'' ''[["I'm nineteen."][$age to "nineteen", $college to "sophomore"]]'' ''[["I'm twenty."][$age to "twenty", $college to "junior"]]'' ''[["I'm twenty-one."][$age to "nineteen", $college to "senior"]]''

You take a deep breath, feeling the weight of their gazes intensify as you reveal your age. "I'm nineteen" you reply, watching as the realization dawns on their faces. Mars, ever stoic and observant, nods thoughtfully, already knowing a bit about your situation. "And that’s what’s intriguing," he states, his tone grave yet calculating. The group falls silent, mulling over the implications of your unique situation. Sable speaks up with newfound determination. "We need to find out why the mark has appeared on you now and what it means," he suggests, his voice surprisingly steady. It's clear that this revelation has sparked a sense of urgency within the group. Mariana steps closer to you, her eyes filled with curiosity. "$name, have you noticed anything... unusual happening around you recently?" Her voice is gentle, inviting you to share any details that might shed light on the mysterious circumstances surrounding your sudden marking. <hr> ''[[NEXT|28]]'' <<set $agenine to true>>

You take a deep breath, feeling the weight of their gazes intensify as you reveal your age. "I'm twenty," you reply, watching as the realization dawns on their faces. Mars, ever stoic and observant, nods thoughtfully, already knowing a bit about your situation. "And that’s what’s intriguing," he states, his tone grave yet calculating. The group falls silent, mulling over the implications of your unique situation. Sable speaks up with newfound determination. "We need to find out why the mark has appeared on you now and what it means," he suggests, his voice surprisingly steady. It's clear that this revelation has sparked a sense of urgency within the group. Mariana steps closer to you, her eyes filled with curiosity. "$name, have you noticed anything... unusual happening around you recently?" Her voice is gentle, inviting you to share any details that might shed light on the mysterious circumstances surrounding your sudden marking. <hr> ''[[NEXT|28]]'' <<set $agetwent to true>>

You take a deep breath, feeling the weight of their gazes intensify as you reveal your age. "I'm twenty-one," you reply, watching as the realization dawns on their faces. Mars, ever stoic and observant, nods thoughtfully, already knowing a bit about your situation. "And that’s what’s intriguing," he states, his tone grave yet calculating. The group falls silent, mulling over the implications of your unique situation. Sable speaks up with newfound determination. "We need to find out why the mark has appeared on you now and what it means," he suggests, his voice surprisingly steady. It's clear that this revelation has sparked a sense of urgency within the group. Mariana steps closer to you, her eyes filled with curiosity. "$name, have you noticed anything... unusual happening around you recently?" Her voice is gentle, inviting you to share any details that might shed light on the mysterious circumstances surrounding your sudden marking. <hr> ''[[NEXT|28]]'' <<set $agetwento to true>>

You take a deep breath, feeling the weight of their gazes intensify as you reveal your age. "I'm eightteen" you reply, watching as the realization dawns on their faces. Mars, ever stoic and observant, nods thoughtfully, already knowing a bit about your situation. "And that’s what’s intriguing," he states, his tone grave yet calculating. The group falls silent, mulling over the implications of your unique situation. Sable speaks up with newfound determination. "We need to find out why the mark has appeared on you now and what it means," he suggests, his voice surprisingly steady. It's clear that this revelation has sparked a sense of urgency within the group. Mariana steps closer to you, her eyes filled with curiosity. "$name, have you noticed anything... unusual happening around you recently?" Her voice is gentle, inviting you to share any details that might shed light on the mysterious circumstances surrounding your sudden marking. <hr> ''[[NEXT|28]]'' <<set $ageeight to true>>

Your thoughts drift to Grim and his recent disappearance. You’ve already put one and two together that he must be involved in some way. However, you don’t know these people, nor their intentions. Revealing your background could be detrimental to how things will proceed further. “No,” you croak out. “This is something new.” Mariana studies you for a moment, her gaze searching yours for any sign of deception. With a nod, she seems to accept your answer, though the doubt lingers in the air like an unspoken question. "Alright," she says gently, giving you some space. "If anything comes up or if you start noticing anything strange, please let us know. We're here to help." She steps back, beginning to turn and walk away from the scene. Sable fumbles with his bag, zipping it up, clearly eager to dive into the investigation. "I can analyze the energy around the mark to see if there are any anomalies, determining why it appeared so late," he suggests. He gives you a smile, along with Parker giving you a two finger salute before Sable turns off the flashlight and follows Mariana to the exit. You and Mars follow them out of the dark store shortly, and stop in front of it. "I'll be in touch," he says. "Okay. Can I get your number, or--," you begin, but Mars was already walking away. You watch him leave, your lips pressed together. "Uh, okay." <hr> ''[[NEXT|M10]]''

<span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 0.8em;" > MEMORY</span> <span style = "color: #123456; font-size: 1.3em;" > AGE 10 </span> //''POP!''// //You burrow yourself deeper underneath your blanket, your bed creaking under your weight. The sound of the fireworks surprise you, leaving gasping softly everytime the noise pops off. You feel tiny teardrops form at the corner of your eyes, and you sniff, blinking away the wetness. Another firework explodes and you whimper softly, squeezing your eyes shut.// "$name...," //you hear the whisper in your head.// //Your eyes open, raising your head gently, your hand wiping the underside of your nose. "Grim?" You ask shakily.// //You lift the corner of your blanket, slowly pulling it off of your head. Your eyes immediately dart to the corner of your room where Grim hovers. The chilly atmosphere that he created oddly calmed you.// "Would you care to hear a story?" //Your eyebrows furrow as you stare at him, before slowly nodding your head. Grim drifts closer to you, black tendrils spreading around him.// "There was a little $kidgen who was creative, intelligent, and incredibly lucky." //"Lucky?" You murmur, your interests peaked.// //Grim stops right at the edge of your bed. You stare up into his hood, meeting nothing more than darkness.// "The $kidgen had a lucky life. $capitalheshe <<if $t_gender is true>>were<<else>>was<</if>> predestined for great things. Things that would change the world." //The noise from the fireworks drifted off into the distance as you pay close attention to the story being told in front of you.// "$capitalheshe wouldn't let any fear terrorize $himher. And even the fears $heshe still harbored, $heshe would forge through them." //"Even fears of fireworks?" Your lips twisted, anxious for Grim to answer you. // "Even them," //he replies cooly inside your mind.// "$capitalheshe <<if $t_gender is true>>were<<else>>was<</if>> lucky enough to live fear free. $capitalhisher friends were proud, $hisher family was proud." //You bit down on your bottom lip, chewing it thoughtfully before you blurt out your next question. "...was $hisher father proud?" Grim went silent after, as if contemplating on a way to answer your question. Just when you think his words are coming to your mind, your grandma opens your bedroom door, carrying a bowl. She smiles at you gently, her $haircolor hair curled to perfection, bouncing along as she walks over to you. "Here, sweetie, I got you apple slices to calm your nerves," she smies, presenting the bowl of apple slices. You glance at the foot of your bed to notice Grim disappeared...something he does whenever your grandma comes around. You give your grandma a tiny smile before taking the bowl from her hands. "Thanks, grandma." She wipes her palms down the front of her pants, a worried twinkle in her eye. "Of course. If you need anything, I'm right down the hall as always." You nod at her, not saying a word as she leaves your room, closing the door behind her.// <hr> ''[[NEXT|18-]]'' <<set $m10 to true>> <<set $grandc to true>>

<span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > CHARACTER DESCRIPTION </span> Mariana Taylor is an Onlooker, able to see people marked by the Grim Reaper. She is the twin sister of Mars, and is friendly, however likes to keep people at a certain distance. She is clever, and the methodical member of the group. <span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION </span> Mariana stands at 5'5, with a soft build and tan skin. She has gray eyes, dark brown hair that's curled across her shoulders. <span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > ''RELATIONSHIP POINTS: '' </span><span style = "color: white; font-size: 1.0em;" > ''$mastat%'' </span> <div class=“relationship”><progress @value=$mastat max=100></progress></div> <hr><center> ''<<back>>''</center> <<script>>UIBar.stow()<</script>>

<span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > CHARACTER DESCRIPTION </span> Sable Clark is an Onlooker, able to see people marked by the Grim Reaper. He is shy and clumsy, usually flustered and aloof. However, he's intelligent, designing the tech and gear for the team. <span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION </span> Sable stands at 6'0, with a lanky build and pale skin. He has green eyes, fiery red, curly hair, and freckles painted across his nose, along with black, thick rimmed glasses. <span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > ''RELATIONSHIP POINTS: '' </span><span style = "color: white; font-size: 1.0em;" > ''$sstat%'' </span> <div class=“relationship”><progress @value=$sstat max=100></progress></div> <hr><center> ''<<back>>''</center> <<script>>UIBar.stow()<</script>>

<span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > CHARACTER DESCRIPTION </span> Parker Cho is an Onlooker, able to see people marked by the Grim Reaper. He is funny and a natural flirt. He is the jokester and warrior of the group, the brawns of the entire operation. <span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION </span> <<if $p_gender is 'female'>>Parker is of Korean descent, standing at 5'9, but with a toned build and pale skin. $p_caphisher wavy black hair goes down to $p_hisher back.<</if>><<if $p_gender is 'male'>>Parker is of Korean descent, standing at 5'11, but with a muscular build and pale skin. $p_caphisher wavy black hair is cropped, just above his ears.<</if>><<if $p_gender is 'non-binary'>>Parker stands at 5'11, but with a muscular build and pale skin. $p_caphisher wavy black hair is cropped, just above their ears.<</if>> <span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > ''RELATIONSHIP POINTS: '' </span><span style = "color: white; font-size: 1.0em;" > ''$pstat%'' </span> <div class=“relationship”><progress @value=$pstat max=100></progress></div> <hr><center> ''<<back>>''</center> <<script>>UIBar.stow()<</script>>

<span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > CHARACTER DESCRIPTION </span> Gina is your grandma, who took custody of you when you were nine years old, after your father had disappeared. <span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION </span> Gina stands at a petite height of 5'3, your absolute twin. <span style = "color: #bb1133; font-size: 1.3em;" > ''RELATIONSHIP POINTS: '' </span><span style = "color: white; font-size: 1.0em;" > ''$grandstat%'' </span> <div class=“relationship”><progress @value=$grandstat max=100></progress></div> <hr><center> ''<<back>>''</center> <<script>>UIBar.stow()<</script>>