Author's Note

I should be clear here as people are getting a bit confused about what I'm advising. The methods of treatment suggested should be researched further and tested before being administered by professionals. Mental health is not a joke and should not be treated as such. I'm attempting to seek answers to prevent suicide statistics from increasing, and the most logical step is to focus on the brain where emotions and stimuli are regulated. I've already gone back and corrected what errors I found while doing my own research for this story. Be safe. be healthy, and if you're struggling with mental health, find what help you can.

Shadow Self

The following week, Diamond and Sunset spoke to Anvil together. Spoiled and Filthy waited outside, as they had become accustomed to the process and wished to respect their daughter's privacy.

"I think we've found about everything we can." Sunset told Anvil.

"You've done an excellent job collecting information. We have at least four potential treatments to be looked into now: CBD oil, Tylenol, Blood Reduction Therapy, and Influenza Neurotransmitter Therapy."

"I guess we can slow down a bit and rest now."

"Looks like it. I'll start putting everything together tonight and corresponding with my colleagues."

"It might be better if you don't mention our role in finding this stuff. If they know you've been getting help from patients, they might charge you with malpractice."

"I hate stealing credit, but you're right. At least if everything's debunked, they can just brush me off as a quack. Worst-case scenario, they revoke my licenses."

"If that happens, let us know," Diamond spoke, "We'll take care of you."

"I'm in your hands." Anvil replied with a smile.

"There's one more thing I'd like to ask." Sunset voiced.

"Of course." Anvil stated.

"Where does the shadow play into our profiles?"

"Ah, yes. The famed shadow of the mind. It began as a theory that each of our psyches contain subconscious dark impulses, which isn't totally inaccurate. For example, both of you are enamored with horror movies, gritty video games, Gothic apparel, and heavy metal music, correct? These things speak to you on a deep psychological level because you perceive the world in a way that's less than ideal. Heartbreak, pain, disease, war, poverty: all unescapable facts of reality. This is where the shadow comes in. In a psychological context, it's often repressed and ignored in waking life. This is where things branch off. There are two end results: Merging with or Assimilation of the shadow."

"What's the difference?"

"When you merge with your shadow, your dark impulses consume you and take over. Assimilation, on the other hand, entails awakening to your dark desires and redirecting them towards more constructive, fun outlets. Assimilation is essentially reigning the shadow in and taking control of it. From what I've gathered, both of you have succeeded in the assimilation process."

"I'm not so sure about that..."

"Why not?"

"Diamond and I...Made a suicide pact."

"Oh...I see..."

"It happened the day we met. We agreed if society collapsed entirely, we would off ourselves to escape."

"It sounds as though you're describing a scenario where death is the more desirable option."

"Right."

"Well, it's true the world is a chaotic place full of hardship and suffering, but I suspect a total collapse is still quite a ways down. Obviously, I can't be sure, but we're a resilient species. We've bounced back from many tragedies before."

"Maybe..."

"There is a case to be made that your particular pact could also be part of the assimilation process. You've committed to living until such a catastrophe occurs, right? Perhaps what you're describing is a defense mechanism."

"How?"

"Ending your life in a situation where death is the only option demonstrates your will to control your future. It's an open act of defiance in the face of futility."

"I don't know...Some pretty bad guys have done the same thing before."

"The difference is, they merged with their shadows. Their downfalls were brought about by their own hands. You've assimilated yours and learned how to use it to your advantage. Someone who can look their darkness in the face and refuse to give in can hardly be called a coward."

"..."

Anvil smiled at Sunset.

"Checkmate."