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The Screen

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Synopsis

Chapter 1 - The Screen-Prologue

In a dystopian future, where everyone and everything is dominated by the Screen, some are noticeable—like TVs, phones, and computers—while others remain hidden, like mirrors, watches, and glasses. In this world, freedom is nonexistent; being watched is inevitable, whether accepted or not. The Jeffersons, a family, chose to live far from civilization in a remote cabin in the woods before the Screen's rise, evading constant surveillance. They aimed to live off the grid, away from the technological pressures and distractions that the Screen brought.

Unexpectedly, a cheerful yet unfamiliar man arrives at their cabin one day. This is surprising, as their location is known to none, not even their extended family. Cautiously, each armed with a bat, knife, Glock, or mace, they open the door and welcome him in. Claiming to be a lost traveler, the man introduces himself and requests shelter for the night. Showing their hospitality, the Jeffersons provide him with food and a place to stay. Unbeknownst to them, this stranger is Mammon, one of the seven princes of hell, destined to bring chaos and danger into their tranquil lives.

A week passes, and one of the Jefferson children, James, spots the stranger with a Screen. His curiosity is piqued, and James decides to investigate discreetly, trailing the man. He observes the man's constant fixation on the Screen, a behavior that intrigues him. Unaware of the device's dark secrets and sinister powers, James wonders about its captivating nature. He can't anticipate that this Screen holds the potential to disrupt their once-peaceful lives.

Days progress, and shifts in the stranger's demeanor become apparent to the Jeffersons. His cheerfulness wanes, replaced by a cold and calculated expression. Rather than engaging in conversations with the family, he devotes his time to the Screen. It seems that Mammon holds an enigmatic influence over the device as if it were the source of his power and sway.

One evening, as the family gathers around the fireplace, Mammon suddenly stands up, his eyes gleaming eerily. He announces a gift for the Jeffersons, one that promises to enhance their lives immeasurably. With a swift movement, he unveils a sleek and small device—a new kind of Screen, unlike any they have encountered before. Its surface seems to ripple with malevolent energy, while its vibrant display holds a hypnotic quality.

Initially hesitant but intrigued, the family members can't resist the device's allure. Mammon's persuasive words echo in their minds, tempting them with promises of more excellent knowledge, pleasure, and power. One by one, they fall under its influence, dedicating more time to the Screen. Their previously simple and content existence starts unraveling as the device infiltrates every aspect of their lives.

Amid this, James remains skeptical and cautious. Observing his family members becoming consumed by their obsessions and growing distant, he takes it upon himself to probe deeper. He delves into the history of the Screen and uncovers Mammon's true identity through concealed texts and historical records. He discovers information about the seven princes of hell and their malevolent intentions.

Realizing his family's peril, James resolves to confront Mammon, liberate his family from the Screen's grasp, and learn about the device's vulnerabilities and weaknesses. Equipped with newfound knowledge and unwavering determination, he orchestrates a daring intervention during a family gathering.

As tension escalates, Mammon's true nature begins to emerge—a malevolent entity that thrives on desires and manipulates minds. A fierce battle of wills ensues, with James leveraging his acquired insights to counteract Mammon's control. The family, torn between their desires and love for one another, is confronted with a pivotal decision: break free from the Screen's allure or yield to its temptations.

The story's climax reaches its zenith as James directly confronts Mammon, utilizing the weapons his family had prepared for times of peril. Through a blend of bravery, cunning, and the strength of their bond, the Jeffersons successfully banish Mammon from their lives, shattering the Screen's dominion and influence.

Despite enduring scars from this ordeal, the family gleans a valuable lesson regarding the perils of unchecked desires and the seduction of technology.