The Great Beyond

A stale light blinks off and on, fighting an endless struggle to hold the darkness at bay. Tick, tock. Tick, tock. The room is barren of any comfort, furnished only by strange technological devices, a few half-eaten sandwiches, and countless discarded blueprints and pages filled with scrawling handwriting. A massive tank in the corner of the room stands tall, flecks of ice attached to the outside. Inside the tank is a body, encased in ice, with many different wires and tubes connecting, pumping strange fluids all the while. Looking beyond, oblivious to the aberrant noise, a lone figure stands in the austere room, muttering to themselves. "If I tweak the temporal dissonance... no, that would never work," they scowl, disassembling something in their hands, before they go still at the tell-tale sound of a ringtone: the song There! Right There! from the soundtrack of Legally Blonde. Something inside them twists at the sound they constantly tell themselves they have to change, before they answer the call. A gentle silence fills the room for a few moments, before a murmur is heard from the other end of the line. "You know why i'm calling." The only response is the faint droning of the light. "You haven't talked to any of us in months. Austin said you slammed the door in his face. We're worried about you!" They continue. Still, they receive no answer. A resounding scoff emits from the phone. "You think you're the only one who's struggling? Fuck, you didn't even go to the funeral..." [[Luke]] [[Lucy]] [[Lux]]

(set: $name to "Luke") "You didn't even go to the funeral, $name!" A few seconds pass, before a coarse voice whispers, "...they're not dead." A sigh is heard. "$name... they're gone! They wouldn't want you to be like this for months after they're gone. Morgan would've wanted you to move on, dude." "They're not gone!" You shout, standing up abruptly, the project you were working on clattering on the clustered table. "They can't be gone," you say, at a much quieter pitch. After all, if Morgan is gone, what point is there? They were your entire world. When everything was crumbling around you, they were there to pick you up and make you laugh. They gave everything they had to ensure you would be okay... even their life. If they were dead, then you were too. They were your... [[Best friend.]] [[Partner.]]

(set: $name to "Lux") "You didn't even go to the funeral, $name!" A few seconds pass, before a coarse voice whispers, "...they're not dead." A sigh is heard. "$name... they're gone! They wouldn't want you to be like this for months after they're gone. Morgan would've wanted you to move on." "They're not gone!" You shout, standing up abruptly, the project you were working on clattering on the clustered table. "They can't be gone," you say, at a much quieter pitch. After all, if Morgan is gone, what point is there? They were your entire world. When everything was crumbling around you, they were there to pick you up and make you laugh. They gave everything they had to ensure you would be okay... even their life. If they were dead, then you were too. They were your... [[Best friend.]] [[Partner.]]

(set: $name to "Lucy") "You didn't even go to the funeral, $name!" A few seconds pass, before a coarse voice whispers, "...they're not dead." A sigh is heard. "$name... they're gone! They wouldn't want you to be like this for months after they're gone. Morgan would've wanted you to move on, girl." "They're not gone!" You shout, standing up abruptly, the project you were working on clattering on the clustered table. "They can't be gone," you say, at a much quieter pitch. After all, if Morgan is gone, what point is there? They were your entire world. When everything was crumbling around you, they were there to pick you up and make you laugh. They gave everything they had to ensure you would be okay... even their life. If they were dead, then you were too. They were your... [[Best friend.]] [[Partner.]]

(set: $relationship to 1) Your best friend. The last bastion of sanity that held you together whilst the world outside descended into chaos and war. ...you can't live without them, no matter what anyone says. You hadn't spent the last few months wasting away, hoping that you were as brilliant as Morgan always claimed you were—hoping you could find some way to bring them back. "Oh, $name..." your friend murmurs, their timbre coloured with sadness. "I know they were your other half, but you can't bring them back. Even if you did, they're at peace now. Can you really tear that away from them?" Your fists clench. [["If I can't bring them back, i'd rather be dead," you breathe.|method]] [["I can do it!" You snarl. "I'm not a fucking moron."|method]] [["I have to try," you say. "I—have to."|method]]

(set: $relationship to 2) Your partner. The love of your life. The person that kept you going whilst the world outside descended into chaos and war. ...you can't live without them, no matter what anyone says. You hadn't spent the last few months wasting away, hoping that you were as brilliant as Morgan always claimed you were—hoping you could find some way to bring them back. "Oh, $name..." your friend murmurs, their timbre coloured with sadness. "I know they were your lover, but you can't do this. You're killing yourself doing this! Would you want them to come back to you when you're practically doing the same thing they did for you?" Your fists clench. [["If I can't bring them back, i'd rather be dead," you breathe.|method]] [["I can do it!" You snarl. "I'm not a fucking moron."|method]] [["I have to try," you say. "I—have to."|method]]

Without waiting for your friend's response, you tap the disconnect button on your phone. You don't have time to waste trying to convince your friend that you have to do this. You've spent the last few months researching resurrection, poring over old, dusty tomes that spoke of magick before the technological revolution eradicated all but the most secretive sects. And, of course, before most of the world order was plunged into devestating war. You've been out of the loop ever since... well, ever since //it// happened, but the last you've heard, it wasn't going too well. Some part of you that you've been suppressing gave a jolt at that—at the patriotism and loyalty you used to so proudly display, before you abandoned everyone for the slightest chance that Morgan could be brought back to you. You've been deliberating on the most pivotal choice that all of your research had imprinted onto you: the sacrifice. In all of the works you've read, they've all shared one universal truth: for something to be returned from The Great Beyond, something must be given back. Something of equal value. [[You're prepared to give up anything, though. You have precious little to lose.]]

Your possessions had always numbered few throughout the years. Since becoming an orphan, you've had only a couple things that were truly precious to you. Your mother's necklace—a beautiful golden heirloom that was the only thing left of your family—was the only material possession. Morgan was another. For something as dangerous as bringing the dead back to life, you would need to be deadly serious in what you offered. Depending on your choice, the consequences could be extremely varied. The last thing left of your lineage? That might not be enough to resurrect a soul. A necklace is next to nothing when compared to (if: $relationship is 1)[your best friend] (if: $relationship is 2)[your partner]. But, if it didn't work, you wouldn't lose something you could never get back. Maybe... your memories? That's pretty significant, but it isn't all-in. You don't know what memories you could lose, though... what if you forgot your friends? Your life? Even Morgan? The only documented resurrection, though, was the exchange of 'a soul for a soul'. You don't think you could forgive yourself if you killed someone for this, nor would Morgan. But your own? It's unprecedented. You don't know what would happen, but... you have said that you'd give up anything for them before. What exactly are you willing to lose? [[Your necklace.]] [[Your memories.]] [[Your soul.]]

(set: $sacrifice to 4) You can always make new memories, right? It isn't as permanent as a soul, but hopefully it would be enough. You still have a few more things you need to prepare before you try to start the ritual, but you've decided the most important part. A main component of a resurrection is also an object that binds you to the soul you're trying to return. There are a few of those you have that you couldn't bear to get rid of. The most important part is that it's something that is deeply treasured. Two things come to mind: a photograph of the two of you (if: $relationship is 1)[mirthfully giggling while covered in cake batter. That had been a disastrous attempt, but had become one of your fondest memories] (if: $relationship is 2)[during your first kiss, taken secretly by one of your friends—It's taken at an awkward angle and is not the highest definition, but it had always held a special place in your heart]; or the hand-carved statuette they made of you. (if: $name is "Luke")[It actually looks remarkably like you. Maybe a bit more handsome than you actually were, though.] (if: $name is "Lucy")[They made you look so pretty.] (if: $name is "Lux") [They somehow made you look perfectly andrognous in a tiny piece of wood... they were always insanely talented.] Which would bind you more to (if: $relationship is 1)[your platonic soulmate] (if: $relationship is 2)[the love of your life], though? [[The photograph. It's a moment that encapsulates the two of you perfectly.]] [[The statue. The love Morgan put into making it would bind you more than a photo ever could.]]

(set: $sacrifice to 5) Whatever it takes. You would give up anything if it meant you could have them back... even at the cost of yourself. You still have a few more things you need to prepare before you try to start the ritual, but you've decided the most important part. A main component of a resurrection is also an object that binds you to the soul you're trying to return. There are a few of those you have that you couldn't bear to get rid of. The most important part is that it's something that is deeply treasured. Two things come to mind: a photograph of the two of you (if: $relationship is 1)[mirthfully giggling while covered in cake batter. That had been a disastrous attempt, but had become one of your fondest memories] (if: $relationship is 2)[during your first kiss, taken secretly by one of your friends—It's taken at an awkward angle and is not the highest definition, but it had always held a special place in your heart]; or the hand-carved statuette they made of you. (if: $name is "Luke")[It actually looks remarkably like you. Maybe a bit more handsome than you actually were, though.] (if: $name is "Lucy")[They made you look so pretty.] (if: $name is "Lux") [They somehow made you look perfectly andrognous in a tiny piece of wood... they were always insanely talented.] Which would bind you more to (if: $relationship is 1)[your platonic soulmate] (if: $relationship is 2)[the love of your life], though? [[The photograph. It's a moment that encapsulates the two of you perfectly.]] [[The statue. The love Morgan put into making it would bind you more than a photo ever could.]]

(set: $sacrifice to 3) You don't want to risk everything. Morgan wouldn't want you to. You still have a few more things you need to prepare before you try to start the ritual, but you've decided the most important part. A main component of a resurrection is also an object that binds you to the soul you're trying to return. There are a few of those you have that you couldn't bear to get rid of. The most important part is that it's something that is deeply treasured. Two things come to mind: a photograph of the two of you (if: $relationship is 1)[mirthfully giggling while covered in cake batter. That had been a disastrous attempt, but had become one of your fondest memories] (if: $relationship is 2)[during your first kiss, taken secretly by one of your friends—It's taken at an awkward angle and is not the highest definition, but it had always held a special place in your heart]; or the hand-carved statuette they made of you. (if: $name is "Luke")[It actually looks remarkably like you. Maybe a bit more handsome than you actually were, though.] (if: $name is "Lucy")[They made you look so pretty.] (if: $name is "Lux") [They somehow made you look perfectly andrognous in a tiny piece of wood... they were always insanely talented.] Which would bind you more to (if: $relationship is 1)[your platonic soulmate] (if: $relationship is 2)[the love of your life], though? [[The photograph. It's a moment that encapsulates the two of you perfectly.]] [[The statue. The love Morgan put into making it would bind you more than a photo ever could.]]

(set: $binding to "photograph") You stare at the photograph a little longer. Oh, how you wish you could go back to that moment. Everything was so much simpler, back then... you'd give anything to go back. You shake your head, dispelling the errant memories. There's one more decision you need to make before you can begin the ritual: the chant. The words used to call beyond the veil and beseech the deceased to hear you and return. If you aren't careful with your phrasing, you could reach the wrong spirit entirely, and disrupt the balance of the ritual. Probably. The books weren't exactly clear on this part. The most important part, though, was that they came from the heart. You've spent every second since Morgan died dreaming of what you would say to them when you finally reunited, but now that you're so close, you're a little lost for words. "I love you," isn't exactly the most precise of phrases. Even if it's the most truthful thing you've said in ages. You close your eyes, picturing what you could say to bring them back to you. (if: $relationship is 1)[ [[Do you remember that afternoon in the kitchen? When you saw me trying not to cry as I told you I messed up your birthday cake? You said that this was the greatest gift you had ever gotten, and we ate that entire disaster. I've never been as happy as that moment. I just want one more memory like that.|bestie photograph]]] (if: $relationship is 2)[ [[Do you remember our first kiss? We had just got off the ferris wheel, and I was trying not to throw up as you teased me relentlessly. I begged you to stop, but you said you could do this with me forever. Even though that kiss wasn't like the movies, it was the most special night of my life. Please, I just want one more kiss.|lover photograph]]] [[I've spent every damn second since you died wishing it was me instead. That you would finally realise for once in your life that I can't do this without you. I don't know who I am anymore, Morgan. All I know is I need you.|normal]] [[Is—god, I can't believe i'm saying this, but you loved this damn musical. Is he gay or european? I'd suffer through every second if you would just come back. Please, please, come back.|legally blonde]]

(set: $binding to "statue") You hold the statue limply in your hands. One of the last pieces of Morgan left in this world, and it's just a tiny, miniscule carving. You wish they were here to give you a hundred more silly little statues. You shake your head, dispelling the errant memories. There's one more decision you need to make before you can begin the ritual: the chant. The words used to call beyond the veil and beseech the deceased to hear you and return. If you aren't careful with your words, you could reach the wrong spirit entirely, and disrupt the balance of the ritual. Probably. The books weren't exactly clear on this part. You've spent every second since Morgan died dreaming of what you would say to them when you finally reunited, but now that you're so close, you're a little lost for words. "I love you," isn't exactly the most precise of phrases. Even if it's the most truthful thing you've said in ages. You close your eyes, picturing what you could say to bring them back to you. [[Remember the statue you made for me? I remember when you gave it to me, you were so nervous. I told you that it didn't matter what you gave me, so long as it was from you. Please, come back. I want to be able to make you one too.|statuette]] [[I've spent every damn second since you died wishing it was me instead. That you would finally realise for once in your life that I can't do this without you. I don't know who I am anymore, Morgan. All I know is I need you.|normal]] [[Is—god, I can't believe i'm saying this, but you loved this damn musical. Is he gay or european? I'd suffer through every second of this if you would just come back. Please, please, come back.|legally blonde]]

(set: $chant to "baking") You have all the elements of the ritual prepared. You've spent six months since Morgan's life drained from their eyes researching, creating, desperately searching for a way to bring them back, and you hope this is the culmination of all of your brilliance. You try not to think about what would actually happen if Morgan came back—you've fantasized about (if: $relationship is 1)[going to so many more places, escaping the hellhole that is the world for a while. Fantasized about having your best friend back.] (if: $relationship is 2)[holding them, just once more. Kissing them like you're drowning, like you'd die if you stop—like you'd never let them go again.] But if things went wrong... you don't want to picture that. You can't get your hopes up, but you know that you're diligent. This has to work. You have the sacrifice, the binding object, and the chant. Now all you need is the deceased. You chance a forlorn glance to the corner of your lab, gaze stuttering when it lands on the freezer you've entombed your lost half in. It had nearly fractured your whole team when you came in to the morgue, demanding to be given Morgan's body. If they'd known what you planned to do to it... but they thought you were merely grieving, unable to move on. Oh, no. You were about to do so much more. [[You gently de-activate the freezer and bring Morgan's cold-to-the-touch cadaver to the floor, as if you're holding their heart in your hands.]]

(set: $chant to "kiss") You have all the elements of the ritual prepared. You've spent six months since Morgan's life drained from their eyes researching, creating, desperately searching for a way to bring them back, and you hope this is the culmination of all of your brilliance. You try not to think about what would actually happen if Morgan came back—you've fantasized about (if: $relationship is 1)[going to so many more places, escaping the hellhole that is the world for a while. Fantasized about having your best friend back.] (if: $relationship is 2)[holding them, just once more. Kissing them like you're drowning, like you'd die if you stop—like you'd never let them go again.] But if things went wrong... you don't want to picture that. You can't get your hopes up, but you know that you're diligent. This has to work. You have the sacrifice, the binding object, and the chant. Now all you need is the deceased. You chance a forlorn glance to the corner of your lab, gaze stuttering when it lands on the freezer you've entombed your lost half in. It had nearly fractured your whole team when you came in to the morgue, demanding to be given Morgan's body. If they'd known what you planned to do to it... but they thought you were merely grieving, unable to move on. Oh, no. You were about to do so much more. [[You gently de-activate the freezer and bring Morgan's cold-to-the-touch cadaver to the floor, as if you're holding their heart in your hands.]]

(set: $chant to "musical") You have all the elements of the ritual prepared. You've spent six months since Morgan's life drained from their eyes researching, creating, desperately searching for a way to bring them back, and you hope this is the culmination of all of your brilliance. You try not to think about what would actually happen if Morgan came back—you've fantasized about (if: $relationship is 1)[going to so many more places, escaping the hellhole that is the world for a while. Fantasized about having your best friend back.] (if: $relationship is 2)[holding them, just once more. Kissing them like you're drowning, like you'd die if you stop—like you'd never let them go again.] But if things went wrong... you don't want to picture that. You can't get your hopes up, but you know that you're diligent. This has to work. You have the sacrifice, the binding object, and the chant. Now all you need is the deceased. You chance a forlorn glance to the corner of your lab, gaze stuttering when it lands on the freezer you've entombed your lost half in. It had nearly fractured your whole team when you came in to the morgue, demanding to be given Morgan's body. If they'd known what you planned to do to it... but they thought you were merely grieving, unable to move on. Oh, no. You were about to do so much more. [[You gently de-activate the freezer and bring Morgan's cold-to-the-touch cadaver to the floor, as if you're holding their heart in your hands.]]

(set: $chant to "normal") You have all the elements of the ritual prepared. You've spent six months since Morgan's life drained from their eyes researching, creating, desperately searching for a way to bring them back, and you hope this is the culmination of all of your brilliance. You try not to think about what would actually happen if Morgan came back—you've fantasized about (if: $relationship is 1)[going to so many more places, escaping the hellhole that is the world for a while. Fantasized about having your best friend back.] (if: $relationship is 2)[holding them, just once more. Kissing them like you're drowning, like you'd die if you stop—like you'd never let them go again.] But if things went wrong... you don't want to picture that. You can't get your hopes up, but you know that you're diligent. This has to work. You have the sacrifice, the binding object, and the chant. Now all you need is the deceased. You chance a forlorn glance to the corner of your lab, gaze stuttering when it lands on the freezer you've entombed your lost half in. It had nearly fractured your whole team when you came in to the morgue, demanding to be given Morgan's body. If they'd known what you planned to do to it... but they thought you were merely grieving, unable to move on. Oh, no. You were about to do so much more. [[You gently de-activate the freezer and bring Morgan's cold-to-the-touch cadaver to the floor, as if you're holding their heart in your hands.]]

(set: $chant to "statuette") You have all the elements of the ritual prepared. You've spent six months since Morgan's life drained from their eyes researching, creating, desperately searching for a way to bring them back, and you hope this is the culmination of all of your brilliance. You try not to think about what would actually happen if Morgan came back—you've fantasized about (if: $relationship is 1)[going to so many more places, escaping the hellhole that is the world for a while. Fantasized about having your best friend back.] (if: $relationship is 2)[holding them, just once more. Kissing them like you're drowning, like you'd die if you stop—like you'd never let them go again.] But if things went wrong... you don't want to picture that. You can't get your hopes up, but you know that you're diligent. This has to work. You have the sacrifice, the binding object, and the chant. Now all you need is the deceased. You chance a forlorn glance to the corner of your lab, gaze stuttering when it lands on the freezer you've entombed your lost half in. It had nearly fractured your whole team when you came in to the morgue, demanding to be given Morgan's body. If they'd known what you planned to do to it... but they thought you were merely grieving, unable to move on. Oh, no. You were about to do so much more. [[You gently de-activate the freezer and bring Morgan's cold-to-the-touch cadaver to the floor, as if you're holding their heart in your hands.]]

Body, soul, mind. The three roots of magick. In this case—Morgan's body. Morgan's soul, and the soul of whatever you offer in return. Your minds, still linked even though they're gone into The Great Beyond, the remaining tether from which you are to bring them back. No more waiting. No more chancing a run into the nearby war-struck city of Shanghai, praying that you're still as good as you were before your life fell apart. You have everything here, and you have conviction. This //has// to work. It just has to. Deep breath in. Once you do this, there's no going back. The consequences are a complete unknown, for the only recorded resurrection had resulted in the separation of the two involved, and the procruer of the ritual was never seen again. What if that happened to you? //"$name..." they whisper, cradling your body in their arms. "Don't cry. Please, don't cry. I'll always be with you. I promise you won't be alone again." // But you were alone. They lied, they broke their promise, they told you that you— Exhale. You don't have time for this. [[It's time to begin the ritual.]]

//"To begin, first lay the object of binding upon the subject's torso. Next, repeat O berro dos mortos—the Cry of the Dead. Finally, kneel before completing the chant and offer the sacrifice. If all steps are completed to their full, The Great Beyond will hear your call." - Methodologica of Necromancy and Other Magick, p. 372// You place (if: $binding is "photograph")[the polaroid] (if: $binding is "statue")[the wooden carving] upon Morgan's chest, right over where their heart used to be. Now for the chant. "Spirits of The Great Beyond, heed my call," you begin, the room stilling as if falling into a silent hush, though the only noise prior was those fluorescent lights you forgot to replace. "Though gone you may be, return to us all. Hark the still waters and cross the veil. Life and blood, fire and death." You waver. "...Morgan, heed my call." Time to hope those words you chose were enough to pierce the haziness of the Ethereal Plane. (If: $chant is "baking")["Do you remember that afternoon in the kitchen? When you saw me trying not to cry as I told you I messed up your birthday cake? You said that this was the greatest gift you had ever gotten, and we ate that entire disaster. I've never been as happy as that moment. I just want one more memory like that."] (If: $chant is "kiss")["Do you remember our first kiss? We had just got off the ferris wheel, and I was trying not to throw up as you teased me relentlessly. I begged you to stop, but you said you could do this with me forever. Even though that kiss wasn't like the movies, it was the most special night of my life. Please, I just want one more kiss."] (If: $chant is "musical")["Is—god, I can't believe i'm saying this, but you loved this damn musical. Is he gay or european? I'd suffer through every second of this if you would just come back. Please, please, come back."] (If: $chant is "normal")["I've spent every damn second since you died wishing it was me instead. That you would finally realise for once in your life that I can't do this without you. I don't know who I am anymore, Morgan. All I know is I need you."] (If: $chant is "statuette")["Remember the statue you made for me? I remember when you gave it to me, you were so nervous. I told you that it didn't matter what you gave me, so long as it was from you. Please, come back. I want to be able to make you one too."] Before you recite the final lines, you kneel, and prepare to sacrifice (if: $sacrifice is 3)[your necklace. You cradle it in your hands one last time.] (if: $sacrifice is 4)[your memories. You hesitate, before picturing your life in your mind. Playing with other orphans, meeting your friends, blushing at your awkward first kiss, Pople dying around you, your hands stained with blood, Morgan lying limp at your feet.] (if: $sacrifice is 5)[your soul. There's no going back from this, you know that. But it's worth it, if you could just see them one more time.] "Life and blood, fire and death. Morgan, heed my call. Return to me, return to us all!" The room goes dark, the fluorescent lights finally snuffed out. You think you see the outline of Morgan's body rising. Whispers begin to creep in from the walls—is that a skeletal hand? You're thrown backwards, out of the ritual, groaning as your bones protest at your movement. The room lights red, then green... and then everything stops. [[Morgan is lying in the center of the sacrasant circle. Is their chest rising? You can't breathe. You stumble towards them, your every being praying it worked.]]

As you step into the circle, your body freezes. You struggle against the invisible force, exercising your will, before you're plunged into an unfamiliar mindscape. //You're dead. You know that with a certainity that belies everything here. You sacrificed yourself so that $name could live. You don't regret it—couldn't, if it meant (if: $name is "Luke")[he] (if: $name is "Lucy")[she] (if: $name is "Lux")[they] had to live without you. Your senses are murky, hazy, and you wander aimlessly throughout a giant plane, the ground (there is no ground here, some part of you knows, but it's a blurry realisation) wavering beneath you. Your memories flicker in your mind, uncertain. You don't really know why you're here—you know only that you died so that $name could live. Throughout all of the fogginess in your head, though, one emotion burns bright within you: serenity. You're finally at peace, here. You feel as if you've lived a hard life, one wherein you had to fight every day to survive, and this is your reward. Months go by, and you stay in this relative peace, content to wander the wastelands of this place (The Great Beyond, a forgotten part of you whispers). The great gate at the vestiges of your vision calls out to you, but you don't ever go through. You stay in this plane, calm, but with a notion that you've left something behind. Something that makes it so you can't quite pass on.// [[You smile, faintly, at the memory of your... friend? A scene comes to the forefront of your mind, unbidden.]]

(if: $binding is "photograph" and $relationship is 1)[//You're laughing in a kitchen, evading as more cake batter is thrown your way. "Stop!" You squeal, as you finally get a load of flour in the face. "Never!" $name shouts, as more is thrown your way. You dodge, and you step closer to your friend (best friend). (if: $name is "Luke")[He] (if: $name is "Lucy")[She] (if: $name is "Lux")[They] freeze, stalling as you cradle $name in your hands. "This is the best gift you could've given me," you whisper, smiling as you receive a scowl in return. "It is! It shows you care. Thank you, darling."// Morgan. //You frown at that name. Is there someone named Morgan here? You shake your head, immersing yourself once more in the memory, before you hear it again.// Morgan, heed my call! Return to me. Return to us all! //You blink, as the scene in front of you morphs into a door. Something awaits you on the other side—an end to the peace you feel, but boundless possibilities in store.//] (if: $binding is "photograph" and $relationship is 2)[//You're standing in the cold, smiling gently at your friend (your lover! your mind squeals), as the two of you exhale shakily. $name looks at you like they're drowning and you're the only thing keeping them afloat. You think you hear giggling in the distance. "I mean it," you press, "I could do this forever with you." A blush is your response, and you squeal at (if: $name is "Luke")[his] (if: $name is "Lucy")[her] (if: $name is "Lux")[their] cuteness. This is the best night of your life.// Morgan. //You frown at that name. Is there someone named Morgan here? You shake your head, immersing yourself once more in the memory, before you hear it again.// Morgan, heed my call! Return to me. Return to us all! //You blink, as the scene in front of you morphs into a door. Something awaits you on the other side—an end to the peace you feel, but boundless possibilities in store.//] (if: $binding is "statue")[//You're presenting a little wooden figure, nervous despite yourself. You know this is the best carving you've ever done, but you can't help but squeeze your eyes shut as you wait for $name's response. When you don't hear anything for a few moments, you open your eyes, and see a tear fall down (if: $name is "Luke")[his] (if: $name is "Lucy")[her] (if: $name is "Lux")[their] face. You soften instantly, but you're overjoyed that $name feels so strongly about this little act of kindness. You swear to yourself that you'll make sure moments like this become normal. // Morgan. //You frown at that name. Is there someone named Morgan here? You shake your head, immersing yourself once more in the memory, before you hear it again.// Morgan, heed my call! Return to me. Return to us all! //You blink, as the scene in front of you morphs into a door. Something awaits you on the other side—an end to the peace you feel, but boundless possibilities in store.//] [[Go through the door.]] [[Stay.]]

(set: $doorway to true) You watch, transfixed, as (if: $relationship is 1)[your best friend] (if: $relationship is 2)[your partner] blinks confusedly, eyes hazy and unclear. Your scream can probably be heard for miles, as you lunge towards them, finally wrapping your arms around the person you failed. "...$name?" You hear them murmur, as you shush them softly. They need to regain their strength. You drink in their features, finally flush with vitality. Their dark hair curling in on their face (you used to sweep their bangs aside fondly), their gray eyes (your little stormcloud), the tiny scar on their lip (you never let them live down that they tried to staple their lip as a child). Morgan is here, in front of you. You pinch yourself to make sure you're not dreaming. Something is strange, though, as you finally look around and start as you realise you're not in your lab anymore. "$name," you hear Morgan say, clearer this time, "what did you do?" [["What do you mean? I brought you back!" You say excitedly. "You're here!"]] [["...I did what I had to do," you say forcefully. "You're worth any price."]] [["I... I did the Necromatic Ritual," you say slowly. "You did always say I was brilliant," you chuckle weakly.]]

(set: $doorway to false) You watch their chest rise, and then still. And it doesn't rise again. No. This can't be happening. "Morgan!" You scream. "No, no, don't do this to me... i've tried so hard, please. Come back to me," you sob. Nothing happens. You frantically rise and fumble for the book you used to discover the ritual, frantically flipping the pages as you search for an answer. "...if the ritual is successful and there is no response..." you mutter to yourself in a frenzy, before you find your answer. "//If the spirit does not return to the body, the deceased did not enter through the Veil. Spirits' memories can be distorted, so proceed with a ritual of summoning forthwith.//" You repeat the words in the tome, before you hear a gasp of breath and a shudder. You rush over to them, kneeling beside the person you failed. "...$name?" You hear them murmur, as you shush them softly. They need to regain their strength. The summoning ritual can have an adverse effect on the body. You drink in their features, finally flush with vitality. Their dark hair curling in on their face (you used to sweep their bangs aside fondly), their gray eyes (your little stormcloud), the tiny scar on their lip (you never let them live down that they tried to staple their lip as a child). Morgan is here, in front of you. You pinch yourself to make sure you're not dreaming. Something is strange, though, as you finally look around and start as you realise you're not in your lab anymore. "$name," you hear Morgan say, clearer this time, "what did you do?" [["What do you mean? I brought you back!" You say excitedly. "You're here!"]] [["...I did what I had to do," you say forcefully. "You're worth any price."]] [["I... I did the Necromatic Ritual," you say slowly. "You did always say I was brilliant," you chuckle weakly.]]

They blink. "To bring me back, you would've had to... no. $name, no," they say horrified, "tell me you didn't do the ritual. Tell me you're smarter than that." (if: $sacrifice is 3)["I might've? But I only gave up my mother's necklace—but it's okay! You're here! It worked!] (if: $sacrifice is 4)["Well—I might have. I gave up my memories. Some of them. But it's" not that bad, Morgan! It worked!"] (if: $sacrifice is 5)["I did what I had to, Morgan. This was worth it. A soul for a soul. But i'm still here, aren't I? It worked."] They shake their head. "No, $name. It didn't work. Look around you! We're in the In-Between. It's not as simple as a resurrection. There are consequences." "Consequences? Morgan, you're alive," you squeal. "We'll deal with it! I promise! All that matters is that you're back." "I was at peace. I was content with my decision, $name. I wanted you to move on. I gave my life so you could //live//, not obsess over bringing me back," they yell. "Now look at what you did!" You stare at them for a few seconds, before saying brokenly, "What I did? I can't live without you, Morgan." "Oh,(if: $relationship is 1)[hon] (if: $relationship is 2)[love]," they breathe, "i'm sorry, $name. I know what I did to you wasn't fair. But this isn't worth it." "Anything is worth it," you retort. [["When you see what will happen, you might change your mind."]]

"$name, no," they say beseechingly. "Don't tell me you did the ritual. I'm not worth any price. What price did you pay?" (if: $sacrifice is 3)["My mother's necklace—but it's okay! You're here! It worked!"] (if: $sacrifice is 4)["Well—my memories. Some of them. But it's not that bad, Morgan! It worked!"] (if: $sacrifice is 5)["...What I had to, Morgan. A soul for a soul. But i'm still here, aren't I? It worked."] They shake their head. "No, $name. It didn't work. Look around you! We're in the In-Between. It's not as simple as a resurrection. There are consequences." You scoff. "Consequences? Morgan, you were fucking dead. That's the worst consequence there ever could be. Whatever it is, I'll deal with it." "I was at peace. I was content with my decision, $name. I wanted you to move on. I gave my life so you could //live//, not obsess over bringing me back," they yell. "Now look at what you did!" You stare at them for a few seconds, before saying brokenly, "What I did? I can't live without you, Morgan." "Oh,(if: $relationship is 1)[hon] (if: $relationship is 2)[love]," they breathe, "i'm sorry, $name. I know what I did to you wasn't fair. But this isn't worth it." "Anything is worth it," you retort. [["When you see what will happen, you might change your mind."]]

Their eyes widen in horror. "What do you mean the Necromatic Ritual?" Morgan hisses. "$name, what did you give up? What did you sacrifice?" (if: $sacrifice is 3)["My mother's necklace—but it's okay! You're here! It worked!"] (if: $sacrifice is 4)["Well—my memories. Some of them. But it's not that bad, Morgan! It worked!"] (if: $sacrifice is 5)["...What I had to, Morgan. A soul for a soul. But i'm still here, aren't I? It worked."] They shake their head. "No, $name. It didn't work. Look around you! We're in the In-Between. It's not as simple as a resurrection. There are consequences." You blink. "Morgan, you were dead. Any consequence is worth that not being true anymore." "I was at peace. I was content with my decision, $name. I wanted you to move on. I gave my life so you could //live//, not obsess over bringing me back," they yell. "Now look at what you did!" You stare at them for a few seconds, before saying brokenly, "What I did? I can't live without you, Morgan." "Oh,(if: $relationship is 1)[hon] (if: $relationship is 2)[love]," they breathe, "i'm sorry, $name. I know what I did to you wasn't fair. But this isn't worth it." "Anything is worth it," you retort. [["When you see what will happen, you might change your mind."]]

They walk (float? This plane operates on strange physics) over to a nearby fountain in the liminal space. The In-Between is a world that's relatively unknown, but from what you can, it's mostly empty, with nothing but the darkness of a night sky lit by two moons. You both reach the fountain, before you realise it's more of a scrying pool. There are multiple images reflecting in the water. "This is the Pool of Knowledge," they start. "When you complete the Necromatic Ritual, you are given one more chance to consider your decision, and the ramifications of what you're sacrificing." You pause. "Morgan, how the hell do you even know this? You hated necromancy." "That's not important,(if: $name is "Luke")[dude] (if: $name is "Lucy")[girl] (if: $name is "Lux")[silly]," they say, rolling their eyes. "Just assume it's spirit-y bullshit. Regardless, I also want you to consider my wishes. I'm content with what I did. This price is not worth it. Look at what will happen!" (if: $sacrifice is 3)[You stare into the pool, before you see scenes play out before you. Morgan in agony, torn between the realm of the living and the dead. The necklace was not enough to bring them back fully. If they were to continue living, it would be a painful existence.] (if: $sacrifice is 4)[You stare into the pool, before you see scenes play out before you. You're confused, staring at Morgan, before the two of you are separated. You don't remember them, anymore. They're torn between wanting to help you and wanting to return to their rightful place, but sometimes they seem confused too. Your memories were enough to bring them back, but not wholly.] (if: $sacrifice is 5)[You stare into the pool, before you see scenes play out before you. Morgan is there, whole, but they're crying. You stand there motionlessly, looking at the person kneeling in front of you, but you feel nothing. You //are// nothing. A soul for a soul, and to bring them back, you gave up your own, turning what remained of you into nothing but a husk.] You sigh, considering your options. You've come all this way. Can you really give up now, at the final moment? At the same time, can you really force Morgan to return? They're the whole reason you did this—shouldn't you take what they want into account as well? You tear your gaze away from the pool and back to your (if: $relationship is 1)[lost half] (if: $relationship is 2)[lost love]. [["Morgan... is this really what you want? I don't know if I can do it without you," you whisper.]] [["I gave up six months of my life for you, and you want me to throw that away? To let you die again?" You clench your fists.]] [["Are you sure? If I do this... you'll really be gone. I miss you, Morg," you breathe, your eyes clouding with tears.]]

"You can, $name. I know you can. I don't want you to suffer because of me," they plead. "That's the whole reason I did this, after all." You look down. "I could still find a way, you know. I could fix this." Your life hadn't ended, but it felt like it had, once, when they died. It feels like that again. They laugh, a twinkling sound. "I know you could. You're brilliant. My shining star," they reminisce fondly. "But if you didn't, you'd spend the rest of your life chasing after a shadow. And I want you to live, $name." You look back to the pool aimlessly, weighing the options in your mind. They want you to move on, but can you? Your entire life has been defined by who you were with them. Who is $name without Morgan? You don't know if you want to find out. (if: $relationship is 1)[Your best friend. The person who got you through the orphanage, through the constant running, through what felt like the world ending around you. They've been your other half since before you could remember. Are you willing to let them go?] (if: $relationship is 2)[Your partner. The love of your life. The person you pined after throughout all of your teenage years, and finally attained right before what felt like the end of the world. You were going to propose to them soon, before everything went to shit. Are you willing to let them go?] "I love you, $name," you hear suddenly, and you look up to fnd Morgan had moved to right in front of you. They cradle your face in their hands. "I never got to tell you, before. But I do. I love you more than anything in the world. And I'll love you even when I'm gone. Let me go." This is the precicipe of your journey of grief, and of not being able to move on. What will you do? [[Let Morgan go.]] [[Bring Morgan back with you.]]

Their eyes crinkle. "I miss you too, $name. But I don't want you to suffer because of me. That's the whole reason I did this, after all." You look down. "I could still find a way, you know. I could fix this." Your life hadn't ended, but it felt like it had, once, when they died. It feels like that again. They laugh, a twinkling sound. "I know you could. You're brilliant. My shining star," they reminisce fondly. "But if you didn't, you'd spend the rest of your life chasing after a shadow. And I want you to live, $name." You look back to the pool aimlessly, weighing the options in your mind. They want you to move on, but can you? Your entire life has been defined by who you were with them. Who is $name without Morgan? You don't know if you want to find out. (if: $relationship is 1)[Your best friend. The person who got you through the orphanage, through the constant running, through what felt like the world ending around you. They've been your other half since before you could remember. Are you willing to let them go?] (if: $relationship is 2)[Your partner. The love of your life. The person you pined after throughout all of your teenage years, and finally attained right before what felt like the end of the world. You were going to propose to them soon, before everything went to shit. Are you willing to let them go?] "I love you, $name," you hear suddenly, and you look up to fnd Morgan had moved to right in front of you. They cradle your face in their hands. "I never got to tell you, before. But I do. I love you more than anything in the world. And I'll love you even when I'm gone. Let me go." This is the precicipe of your journey of grief, and of not being able to move on. What will you do? [[Let Morgan go.]] [[Bring Morgan back with you.]]

A lone tear falls from a cloudy eye, marking its melancholic path before it falls to the floor. You stare at them through your watery eyes, drinking in every part of them, every last detail, because this is the last time you'll get to do it. You rush over to them, desperate for their hold, just one more time. It's all you've wanted since they've died. (if: $relationship is 1)[You hug them fiercely, nearly crushing them with your embrace. "I'll miss you so much," you sob into their shoulder. "Every damn day."] (if: $relationship is 2)[You kiss them, drowning in the feel of their lips on yours. It's just as magical as your first kiss, and sadder still, your salty tears falling on both of you. "I love you, Morgan," you sob. "I'll miss you so much."] "I know," they murmur, "but I'll always be with you. Even when we're worlds apart." You look back towards the Veil, and back towards Morgan. "Wait for me?" They smile at you, both sadly and brightly. "Always, $name." You leave The Great Beyond without Morgan, as they wanted. Without (if: $relationship is 1)[your best friend] (if: $relationship is 2)[your partner]. You'll never see them again, but at least they'll be at peace, finally able to move on.

"No," you whisper. "I can't do this without you." "$name," they start, before you cut them off. You can't let them go. Not when you're so close. You told yourself you'd bring them back, no matter the cost, and that's what you'll do. "No! I'll fix this, Morgan. I will. Please let me. I can't live without you. I'll find a way to—to make this right, to save us both," you say frantically. They look at you sadly. "I'm not worth this, $name. I want to move on... but if you want me to go back, I will." It kills you to do this against their wishes, but you //know// you'll find a way. You have to, because if you can't... Whatever it takes. You grab their hand, resolute, even as it shakes when you look back toward the Veil. You've come all this way, and you're not leaving without them. You leave The Great Beyond with (if: $relationship is 1)[your best friend] (if: $relationship is 2)[your partner] against their wishes. This may end up costing you your life, or Morgan theirs, but if it's the only way they can survive, you have to do it. You'll see them again, but at what cost?

"I was okay with dying, $name," they respond, gently. "I don't want you to suffer by bringing me back. That's the whole reason I did this, after all." You look down. "I could still find a way, you know. I could fix this." Your life hadn't ended, but it felt like it had, once, when they died. It feels like that again. They laugh, a twinkling sound. "I know you could. You're brilliant. My shining star," they reminisce fondly. "But if you didn't, you'd spend the rest of your life chasing after a shadow. And I want you to live, $name." You look back to the pool aimlessly, weighing the options in your mind. They want you to move on, but can you? Your entire life has been defined by who you were with them. Who is $name without Morgan? You don't know if you want to find out. (if: $relationship is 1)[Your best friend. The person who got you through the orphanage, through the constant running, through what felt like the world ending around you. They've been your other half since before you could remember. Are you willing to let them go?] (if: $relationship is 2)[Your partner. The love of your life. The person you pined after throughout all of your teenage years, and finally attained right before what felt like the end of the world. You were going to propose to them soon, before everything went to shit. Are you willing to let them go?] "I love you, $name," you hear suddenly, and you look up to fnd Morgan had moved to right in front of you. They cradle your face in their hands. "I never got to tell you, before. But I do. I love you more than anything in the world. And I'll love you even when I'm gone. Let me go." This is the precicipe of your journey of grief, and of not being able to move on. What will you do? [[Let Morgan go.]] [[Bring Morgan back with you.]]