Ignacia wrote:
And before anyone asks if the players are okay with this, this scenario is me testing how far into depravity people are comfortable with, and I'll ask outright after this has been resolved in-game.
I would like to humbly suggest reading the very excellent section in Horror Adventures titled "Horror Games And Consent" (page 190). In summary, it's generally best to inform your players beforehand if you intend to use horrifying content or situations and what, in broad strokes, those themes might be. Getting a sense of where your players are comfortable helps you craft stories that push but do not cross those boundaries. It also helps players understand the overall tone of your game and plan both themselves and their characters accordingly.
If you think it will spoil a surprise, such a declaration will only serve as a teaser trailer for your overall game. Knowing what's coming will keep your players on edge with anticipation.