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Ausiàs Tsel's avatar

"Do you feel power when you squash a spider?" is the line that stays. Pine's banality as the 'killer' is more unsettling than any explicit horror—the procedural mind treating violence like inventory management. The Taneski coda is interesting but the story doesn't need the explanation; it already speaks. Congrats!

The Horror of Miles Carnegie's avatar

I'm glad that spider line stuck with you! 'Inventory management' is exactly the headspace I wanted for Pine. As for the Taneski link, I only included that because, as dark as the story gets, the real-world inspiration was actually much bleaker. I appreciate the sharp eye and the kind words!

Alicia's avatar

This is so captivating - I really enjoyed reading it.

Fragments and the Dark's avatar

Fantastic work, very intimidating and fascinating that there is a real case behind it! Amazing writing! 👍🏻

The Horror of Miles Carnegie's avatar

The real case files were even bleaker. Thanks for reading.