# WW-9O — "Pretend" **Classification:** WW **Threat Level:** Moderate **Status:** Active ## Description WW-9O, designated **"Pretend,"** is an anomalous manifestation capable of creating false assumptions within observers. The anomaly typically appears as a human-like figure or figures seemingly reacting to an unseen presence. Most observers immediately conclude that the figure is: * a player * a witness * a survivor * or a person aware of anomalous activity This conclusion is incorrect. No evidence suggests the depicted individual is real. The apparent fear, awareness, and behavior displayed by the manifestation are components of the anomaly itself. Foundation personnel have designated this effect: > **THE TRICK** --- ## The Trick The primary ability of WW-9O is causing observers to build a story that does not exist. Observers frequently report: > "The boy looks scared." > "He's looking at something." > "He's trying to warn us." Investigation has found no evidence supporting these assumptions. WW-9O does not need to deceive through movement or speech. Instead, it allows the observer to deceive themselves. --- ## Identification Personnel can identify WW-9O by following the Foundation Verification Procedure. ### Step 1 Observe the manifestation. ### Step 2 Record only directly visible facts. Examples: CORRECT: * Human-like figure present. * Dark coloration observed. * Facial expression uncertain. INCORRECT: * The figure is scared. * The figure witnessed an event. * The figure is a survivor. --- ### Step 3 Determine whether conclusions are being made without evidence. If the observer begins constructing a narrative around the manifestation, WW-9O may be present. --- ## Known Effects Exposure to WW-9O may result in: * false conclusions * incorrect witness assumptions * narrative construction * fixation on nonexistent details Long-term exposure may cause researchers to become convinced they understand the anomaly despite lacking evidence. --- ## Foundation Warning Personnel are reminded: WW-9O is not necessarily the figure depicted. WW-9O is not necessarily the background. WW-9O is not necessarily any single object visible within the manifestation. The entire presentation may be anomalous. --- ## Foundation Note > "The mistake is not seeing Pretend." > "The mistake is believing you already know what you're looking at."
