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# '''Temptation: Distinction''': It has occurred to me that I hold the key to greatness.# '''Dedication: Differentiation''': I have dedicated myself to the pursuit of a fullness of understanding. I must know the difference, whatever the cost.# '''Ascension: Demarcation''': The Demarq-s has marked me; the need for precision darkens my humors and cuts through thoughts. I know this to be the Third Mark.# '''Ascension: Definition''': I can see the subtleties in fracturing stone; the quiet boundaries maintained in a couple's embrace; the weaknesses in flesh. My complexion smooths, and winds feel stronger. This is the Fourth Mark.# '''Ascension: Delineation''': Ink stains my skin and will not be washed off. One may determine the Fifth Mark either by extent of the patterns, or by their detail. I suspect I would meet both criteria.# '''Ascension: Division''': My flesh spreads itself to keep the symbols from spilling off. My tears leave black trails behind them, and in them I see reflected the components of others. It is difficult not to test how they fit together differently from one another. The backs of my hands bear maps to places I've never been. My left thigh informs me, in elegant calligraphy I do not remember writing, that this is the Sixth Mark.# '''Ending: The Map And The Territory''': I have split myself in twain, becoming more than the sum of my halves, and drawn my innermost essence in symbol upon the walls of Mansus. The Demarq-s sees the opposition that my selves now bound, and follows my map back to find me. They shall bear me upon their skin for ever more, and remake my body in perfect representation. so will I live forever twice, setting right the world's touching.