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**The Chamber of Shadows**
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They stepped into a room ablaze with light. The walls shimmered like tongues of fire, yet the floor remained steadfast, hewn from ancient stone. At the heart of this enigmatic chamber hung an immense mirror, its surface a dark pool of secrets. And there, reflected within its depths, stood a solitary figure—cloaked in darkness, eyes like twin voids. Death himself.
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"Welcome to my home," Death intoned, his voice a spectral whisper.
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Vincent's voice trembled. "Where are we?"
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"My headquarters," Death replied, his gaze unyielding. "This is where I confine those who defy me, who deny the inexorable truth."
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"People like us?" Sam ventured.
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"Yes," Death affirmed. "Those who resist, who cling to life beyond their appointed time."
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"How many souls languish here?" Sam inquired.
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"Eleven," Death mused, "though some have become our allies. For now, it's just you."
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Death leaned closer, his eyes piercing. "Let us discuss your contract, Sam."
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"Go on," Sam said, his resolve unwavering.
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"I offer protection—for you and your kin," Death murmured. "In exchange, you become my agent. You will hunt down those who elude me."
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"Hunt them?" Vincent's disbelief echoed.
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"Yes," Death's smile was chilling. "Capture them, by any means necessary."
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"Why?" Sam pressed.
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"Because," Death's gaze bore into Sam's soul, "failure would cost you your life."
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"And our team?" Vincent asked.
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"They will obey," Death assured. "Or face my wrath."
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Sam hesitated. "What's the price?"
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"Three years of service," Death intoned. "For which I'll pay you one million dollars annually. Afterward, double that for life."
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Sam's brow furrowed. "Seems steep."
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"But consider," Death countered, "the weight of your duty."
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The mirror rippled, and a new figure emerged—a warrior clad in black robes, a sword at his side, and a pink-skulled mask.
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"Meet Trisk," Death gestured. "Your first agent."
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Trisk's eyes bore into Sam's. "Skullet Quattro, reporting."
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Death resumed. "My code: Skullet Uno. Obey my orders, never lie, and attend our private meetings. But the price—"
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"—is adherence to your rules," Sam finished.
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"Indeed," Death said. "No killing non adult and non combatants, . Spare those with living parents, friends, and allies. And only your innate power."
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Sam nodded. "Understood."
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Death leaned closer. "Remember, knowledge is life's true currency. And change allegiances when necessary."
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"Is that all?" Sam asked.
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Death handed him a flyer. "A summary. Keep our pact secret."
And my call sign is Skullet Uno, but you can still call me Death." Death said.
"Skullet Uno," Sam acknowledged. "Thank you."
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Death vanished, leaving Sam, Molly, and Peter. Sam kissed Molly goodnight, then checked on Vincent. Peter's concern lingered, but Sam reassured him.
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As they closed the door, Peter sighed. "Daddy, what if Vincent—"
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"—is fine," Sam said. " he's fine. I'll check on him tomorrow ok?" Sam said "Now, let's rest."
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