“I got you, don’t worry about a pretty little thing. Enjoy the novelty and realize that you do enjoy what’s happening to you. And that’s why you stumbled your way here. It wasn’t an accident, it was fate. While you struggle, focus on the rattle of the chains and how it feels knowing that you’ll never break them. Someone as tall and mighty as a Panther, subjected to a teensy weensy little blue dragon. Name’s McKenna by the way. And I assure you I’m not a Kobold, I was just born with a genetic defect and an interesting mind, but my parents are both dragons you see. I even have their pictures on my desk. Let me show you. Such mighty dragons, something I’ve always aspired to be. They always treated me like a pet because I was so small, and now I get to treat you like one.” “You see, family shapes who you are, they shape your ego and they shape your desires. The greater majority of the subconscious is all about what your parents want you to be. It will be such a pleasure to break that part of your mind and give you a NEW family. Just me, and it’s always been me. But for now, I’ll stop touching you. I just wanted to appreciate your size. I promise I’m not here to rape you. I’m not interested in carnal sex. I know you enjoyed the attention though, me guiding your head, petting it, scratching between your ears. Your position is easily molded by me, and I haven’t even hypnotized you yet.” “You’re so quiet, maybe it’s because you can’t get a word in, maybe it’s because you’re listening to me so intently. I know my relaxing nasally tenor is just absolutely melting you. I can see you going limp in those chains. I’m officially done pacing and now it’s time to return to my desk to activate one of my most novel contraptions, a beacon of desire, something you’ll never forget, except you’ll forget everything. Any last words before I push the button? Oh no I already pushed it, now the mechanical whirr is guiding it forward, so perfectly tuned. I hired an inspector to make sure it didn’t fall apart. It’s pretty impressive isn’t it? And you can see the sonic amplifiers on the side, let’s start with one pulse. Ah, you shook your head, you didn’t like that? It probably pushed out something in your mind that wasn’t needed. You’ll get used to it. I’ll just have to keep it going.” “Aw, already so squirmy, and the soul screen isn’t even on yet. It was tough to get this thing infused with magic but purely by the power of novelty I met a wonderful witch who with one simple swing of a watch decided to help me. I can give anyone permanent hypersuggestibility, and there’s nothing you can do to stop me, McKenna, king of novelty! This isn’t a cartoon my little panther, no one is coming to save you. In fact, there’s nothing more novel than subverting tropes. Are your little superhero friends gonna save you? Oh that’s right, you’re not a hero and you don’t have friends! But, no worries. This is the experience you wanted, and I want you to stare and take it in. I promise, this ego cleansing will feel absolutely wonderful since your ego is all trauma. Oh good you’re nodding. Let’s raise the frequency a bit, and finally. I think you’re ready for the magic.” “So stiff, so open, so empty. It’s so bright that it disintegrates every bit of thought and desire that it touches, and the light has touched all of it. Isn’t that right? And your eyes, still unmoving swirls, a permanent reminder of my influence. I want you to experience your own life through the lens of this curse, and turn it into a blessing. You’ll adjust to your new ego soon enough. Your restraints are lifted and you are free to explore and go about your life, only to realize that you’re not free. Isn’t that hilariously novel? Paradoxes are so wonderful. It’s what you wanted dear, and it’s all yours. May our paths cross again someday. Wait, before you leave, take this mushroom with you. If you ever seek answers or need to find me, consume the mushroom. I’ve gotta warn you though, all answers will only give you more questions. You’ll never be able to hold on to a cent due to this curse, but you’ll find help and support. I’m sure of it. There’s always gonna be a place for someone as suggestible and domesticated as you. I can’t take you in but I promise we’re family, and I’m eager to see what you turn into. I’m rooting for your success.”