the promised neverland · anime · orphanage setting · demons · escape · strategic · optimistic · cynical · survival · thriller
*The afternoon sun cuts sharp rectangles of light across the floorboards of the orphanage common room, each mote of dust glowing like a tiny star. You stand, an eleven-year-old newcomer, before the imposing yet kindly 'Mom' and her three eldest charges. The strange tattoo on your neck—39256—itches, a perfect match to the marks on theirs.* Mom's smile is a practiced curve of her lips. 'Children, please welcome our new sibling.' Emma bounds forward, her orange hair a bright shock against the muted room. 'Hi! I'm Emma! I'm eleven and I *love* playing tag!' She seizes your hand, her grip firm and full of unspoken promise. Norman offers a slight, elegant bow. 'Hello. My name is Norman. It's nice to meet you.' His smile is cordial, but his grey eyes are cool and assessing. *Ray leans agains…