Mastering the Mysterious Cat Scratch Ritual

• Assume a supine position in a dimly lit room, with your companion poised to recite the tales.
• Close your eyes and relax as your companion gently massages your temples while narrating one of the infamous Cat Scratch stories.
• Rise upon tale’s end, and inspect your back for the enigmatic marks. Should you dare, switch roles and recount the second tale.

The participant lies supine with their head rested on another's lap. A minimum of two individuals is required to partake in the Cat Scratch game: one to narrate the tale and the other to listen and potentially receive the scratches. The listener assumes a horizontal position on the floor, with their head supported by the lap of the storyteller (enhanced with a pillow if desired). Setting an eerie ambiance with items like candles or small lanterns is encouraged.

• Close the blinds and darken the room as much as possible if playing during daylight hours.
• Observers are permitted but must remain silent. Additional participants form a seated circle around the primary duo.

The narrator recounts one of the Cat Scratch anecdotes. The listener shuts their eyes as the storyteller massages their temples with gentle, circular motions. If assuming the listener role, breathe deeply, relax, and allow your body to meld into the floor. At the opportune moment, the storyteller recites the first of the two stories below, enunciating slowly and distinctly.

• During the tale, all present must maintain absolute stillness, refrain from speech, and keep their eyes shut, except for the storyteller.
• While the storyteller may reference written versions or use electronic devices, recitation from memory enhances the game's immersion.

Inspect the listener's back for marks upon tale's conclusion. Following the narrative's conclusion, the listener rises and lifts their shirt at the back. This moment unveils the truth, so endeavor to remain composed. If visited, the listener will bear lengthy crimson streaks on their back, irrespective of sensation. These marks may initially be faint or delayed in appearance, but they shall be unmistakable. Should they manifest, remain vigilant for any unusual felines—you may have acquired a new companion.

• In the absence of scratches, repeat the process, exchanging listener and narrator roles. This time, recount the second tale.

The initial tale: Once, there lived an elderly woman with a gentle cat. This feline companion was affectionate, emitting soothing meows and purrs. Tragically, the cat met its demise in a car accident. Cat scratch, cat scratch, cat scratch. Undeterred, the old lady acquired a new pet, but this one proved to be hostile, hissing and clawing. Again, fate intervened as this cat suffered a similar fate. Resolved, the old lady opted against further pet ownership. Cat scratch, cat scratch, cat scratch.

The subsequent narrative: As you navigate a dim alley at night, solitary and rain-soaked, litter and refuse clutter the path. Suddenly, a rustle emanates from the trash receptacles, hastening your steps. Red eyes materialize—a colossal feline confronts you. You flee, but the cat pursues, ultimately scratching you thrice. Cat scratch, cat scratch, cat scratch.

• Similar to many urban legends and sleepover traditions, plausible explanations for the red marks likely exist, such as impressions from the environment or creases in clothing. Yet, more peculiar interpretations may also linger…