=== Chapter 3 [Horn]

 

[In the midst of ever growing culture of information, we live out lives in order to preserve the notion of openness. It is the older generation who wants to enslave us to computer created AIs, programming our each and every movement. What we eat, when we sleep, what we do can be recorded in this vision of the future that might become real, if investors allow it. We are all aware of this global agenda of new economical order, thanks to the internet, but also due the overflow of information we can’t find a solution to the problem of binarization of society.]

 

I was watching a video about certain futures yet to come. The announcement that our lives will become more and more connected with computers was responded with worries that even today we don’t seem to take the threat of technology seriously and thus we are socially engineered by commercials, by those who have interest in controlling the humanity as a whole. However...if we can be faster than them...

 

Since the mind is a battlefield now, we still have some upper hand. Because of the existence of the theory of Morphic Fields, we have a hope that not even the chips implanted into the brain’s cortex are able to fully control humans. Notwithstanding such experiments were conducted on rats at first, the race here is to create something that will improve the awareness of the problem that comes from negligence of the responsibility to build a better future.

 

Unfortunately, said weakness comes from individual mental states that are also caused by the turmoil. Not knowing whenever I should help humanity to wake up from this hypnotic dream or not knowing if I can even make a difference, I stand simply muddled and hollowed out. Each day a new idea is forced into my brain, switching places with the previous one. It’s like Maslow having a dance with the Wheel of Fortune, what do I want to do today I wonder? If my volition was the decider, I should be able to choose what is important for me, but that's a problem.

 

[Hey what are we having for lunch? Don't tell me sweetie that you are going to starve again okay?

On the other hand, if you so desire, I won't stop you. I'm not your mother so take care of yourself.]

 

[No, not at all. I was planning on eating ramen because that is the fastest way to ignite my fire back.

You could say things about my habits, but please don't humour me please. I am perfectly fine with this.]

 

[So you accept this over something healthy? I don't want to be an ass and say this something you shouldn't do,

most people wouldn't. But maybe you just need a little push, like going out with me from time to time. How about it?]

 

[As I said, I don't really care what other people say, even if they think I am fat. I don't deny that for once,

I just use the term “a little chubby” instead. It's much more pleasant for me. As for your offer to a dinner, I dunno.]

 

If changing yourself was as easy as writing a string of code and then executing it, things would be a little different nowadays. Yet, I was proven by something drastic that reforming takes more than desire—it requires giving up a figment of your mind in order to fill it with a new part. That is something I must accept now, and that can only further make me worry about humanity. What does it takes to change them? A worldwide crisis?

 

[So what is your prognosis on the usage of this technology we are trying to create here? We can only really predict now,

how humanity is going to react to the ability of facsimileing their brain into a virtual vessel. Still, this is a simulation,

not an exchange of consciousness, since that might be impossible. You must know why, though it might be possible in the future.]

 

[The ability to connect to a computer, the telepathic capabilities, the Hive Mind and other things are out of our reach now.

We only just understood how to copy paste the brain into its quantum counterpart. Technically we could chain those computers together,

but that won't increase their computing powers. The same goes for humans, right? Even if they join their minds they won't be smarter.]

 

[You say so, but I think that it is still too early to assess that. They are a number of physical indications that measure intelligence,

 like the brain volume, Grey and White matter, or cortical thickness. Based on that, if we could learn how to reconfigure our neurons,

we could be able to artificially cause brain development. Still, I can think of more convenient uses, like repairing cerebrum damage.

Actually, I recall that someone, using such procedures, was able to cure autism, but that story was just a single successful case.]

 

[I could recall some information yes, but in the end we should ask ourselves if the humanity is ready for such things.

Namely, with the ability for humans to become smarter, something like intelligence or talents would perish completely.

We can't afford to live in a world where everyone is seemingly perfect, it is just a pipe dream that will ruin us further.]

 

Not of all the humanity share the same thoughts and abilities. Just because we are different, we can understand our barriers. But on the other hand, since we are not the same, we also have to learn to live with the limitations of everyone in order to create a society. Saying so, I think the usage of technology nowadays slowly leads to a situation where everyone is split apart, but remain only seemingly connected. Thus, as a researcher I have to figure out how to reverse that...I wanted to understand once if there as an answer that would satisfy everyone, yet now I am lost.

 

[So what do you think about the war? Is it going to happen or will it end on just a few words here and there?

I think, knowing the leaders of that country, it is inevitable that something was going to happen, something bad.

Even if I wanted to have hopes, I think it is better to think realistically and plan our defences beforehand.]

 

[No war is going to happen because, in the end, we are going to be responsible for stopping that, right guys?

We can still do something before everything goes down, so I wouldn't just stand here and wait for the end to come.

You understand me right? Even the minions of the machine can do wonders if they put their mind into that, so let's...]

 

[I'm sorry, but I think this is just too silly. You want to become a hero that saves the world from the war?

What a completely outrageous idea. You might as well just go and roll a gacha or something. If you get a hit then...

That reminds me...by the way, do you guys know the rates for the current event? I heard like some of the SSRs got bumped up.]

 

[Rates are as usual, just little above the one percent. But I won't be rolling anyway, my grid is fine for fire.

Though I heard that the new character is quite overpowered, like “instant cash payback” imbalanced. So perhaps,

if you guys remember, there was a case like that before, so I'm thinking it is worth the shot, don't you think?]

 

And so, thanks to the circumstances of chance, this conversation was derailed from its original topic quite fast. Times like these I wonder if there is hope for the human race, or is it that we developed an extraordinary ability? The faculty to pay attention at many things at once, called multitasking, might be one of the advantages of our generation, but another problem that arises from it, which is that we can't pay attention to things for more than just a split second.

 

Like in an electronic web of relations between the most distant subjects, our minds work wonders to progress the content, with our individuality taking the advantage in conversation. The ever changing society of the internet, unstable and unsure, is what allows us to gather information freely from many sources at once. Yet, as a generation, we are considered as a failure.

 

The object of a social conduct is to form bonds between the subjects and relate with each other through the share of information. When the context of this intercourse is plainly having a cheerful everyday life conversation, there is no other exchange. Just like electronic waves, useful information bounce off each brain and accomplish nothing constructive in the end.

 

[This is why I hate humanity, its inability to grow from being a biological receiver to a greater being.

I wanted to help them, but in the end I think I'm just one of them, trying to realise what is my purpose.

Thus, I can't blame their uncertainly and lack of aspirations, which is also my weakness nevertheless.

In the end, perhaps this is for the best of the populace that is shouting for a revolution of the mind.]

 

And then, I found myself in the middle of war. Between TSO and the so called Anti-TSO there was a spark. In due days both of the guilds started talking seriously about going into the war, I don't know why exactly. But I think it was probably that TSO was the biggest guild, unrivalled, and dangerously growing in size. Still, there was one more reason, and though I can't fully explain it, it was quite a complicated one.

 

[Well this kinda suck... I don't want to fight G1, or do have to deal with this war. I have really done it, did I?

Making me choose sides like that is quite unfortunate.  I can't escape problems even in this virtual game.]

 

Before me there was a person with an avatar resembling a drow. She was wearing a cape and some kind of school uniform, but her skin was purple. I reckon she was talking about the war I was thinking about back then, thus I piqued my interest. If I could retrieve any useful information from her, it would be most crucial for my mission and for myself perhaps.

 

[Hey might I ask you about your situation? I'm not a person that is implicated into this happening,

but I was just curious if you could tell me what exactly is going on. I’m quite puzzled so I wish to know.]

 

[Oh you must be that researcher Xyl was talking about the other day? You look like that person, so sure I can tell you something.

I'm Darku by the way, I joined this guild because the leader is my long time friend, but at the same time, I have friends in Anti-TSO.

You probably can guess what that means, I was just thinking about it lately. Mind if I asked you what would you do in this situation?]

 

[That sounds complicated I guess, but do we even know why this war happening? I would start with that part.]

 

[Oh then you might onto a Syzyf job here, because not even the leaders can tell why did the players want this.

I mean sure, someone people just want to fight since they are bored, but involving others is not good at all.

Forgive me, I am not a kind of person that would be able to tell why either. I guess you can try, right? Good luck.]

 

What can I say, this person was clearly trying to push me to do my job, and I couldn't really disagree. The problem was now getting the right people I could talk with, from both sides, and learning their opinion. I could easily do that if I asked G1 and Xyl, so that part wasn't the problem. The real issue was something else.

 

The recent events and my mind were not quite thinking straight, and there were several reasons for that.

 

[Well thank you for your optimism, I really needed that lately. I mean, my name is Squeggie. It’s a pleasure to meet you Darku]

 

[Likewise, sometimes it’s nice to meet new people. I must say I would like to chat and all but...

I heard you are a researcher right? I find this quite assuming that someone with your caliber...]

 

[Ey! I mean I’m just curious okay? I don’t even play this game too much. I wouldn’t even know if war is a serious thing here.]

 

For example, one of the reasons why I’m involved in this war is...

 

[Well I can humour you a little if you want. It probably isn’t, but at the same it strangely connected with the current events.

That war going on in the world right now, it’s like one country trying to reform itself but also it can spread over the border...

As for me, I’m quite out of it. I don’t even know why I’m playing this game still. It seems fun and all but then there’s an issue...]

 

[Well we all have our reasons right? It’s your conscious decision after all, or at least you should believe that.]

 

[I’m not sure...what I wanted to apparently to relieve the past, but I find myself continuing that each day, mechanically...

There is something also a bit foreboding about wanting to return to your childhood, like the failure to become an adult.]

 

Visibly the girl didn’t want to talk more about her current state of mind so I decided to change topics.

 

[Yea whatever, screw that. How about some food then? I mean in game of course...]

 

[Well... no thanks really. I have to go. I will talk to you later okay?]

 

[I guess...?]

 

I usually eat spicy food to calm my mind and to contemplate more clearly, but not even this meal could help now. This chorizo burrito might not be the best, but I didn't find any other place that was open at this time.

 

As for the other girl, she was also in hurry or something? I could not even hear her leaving, just the birds chirping somewhere in the far away land. I guess she wasn’t hungry so she left me be. I’m not sure if we are going to meet again, but more importantly...

 

[So those were what are my options right now...]

 

I thought to myself while looking at the naturally shaped land. This forest was peculiar, the crossroad of the trading routes between the countries, people going in and out, seemingly without direction. The small and humble tavern made out of wood, it was the middle of nowhere. I knew that I wouldn't be able to stay here, and my impenitence again ignited the desire to take action.

 

===

 

I was having two conversations about the same thing, but their time was different. Those talks were concerning the war, how to stop it and what is the cause of it. As a researcher I had no merits conducting those quite strange reviews, but a person I thought this was something I must be doing in order to perverse my identity. So the first person...

 

[Salutations, this knight welcomes the member of the avant-garde, the one that brings the light to the darkness.

Researcher, you wanted to know the circumstances of the possible outbreak, is that correct? Let there be no doubt,

code of chivalry allows only for truth. No working of demons from the deepest and darkest depths shall be allowed.]

 

[I understand that is a yes? I find it hard to explain but your posture is something quite mysterious dark knight.

Let's not further derail the conversation and think about the situation at hand okay? I mean your words are kinda...]

 

[You speak about my conduct, worried spectacles of the mysterious origin? It is how this knight usually talks yes,

no one has found that a problem or a hurdle. It is but a matter of accommodating to this matter of speech, fear not.]

 

[Okay, maybe I should not have said that, but if I ask you to stop and explain, I hope you won't be mad okay?]

 

This interview was taking place in the capital of TSO. The black knight in a heavy armour before me agreed to talk, although this word exchange we were having was far from normal—the conversations I had with AIs around here can’t even compare. He was apparently someone more important than a regular member—therefore I thought he would know something. I also didn’t want to bother Xyl again—he was busy with the war and everything.

 

But at the same time there was this other interview...

 

[Hey welcome! I heard from G1 that someone was coming here, so I was surprised the second I heard about it.

I dunno why he would recommend me, but oh well, I hope we will get along just well, since we both are girls...

I mean like, no worries! I only shoot ugly and creepy guys that come here and there, you should be safe okay?]

 

[Right...That was a warm welcome, so thank you. But don't worry about me—I'm usually very adaptive to the cold,

 so this near tundra environment doesn't really bother me. In fact, maybe I could interest you in something hot?

I had some ramen on my person, so I can always share it with you. Alternatively, just tell me what you want.]

 

[Brr... I'm kinda fine, thanks. Actually, you barely even have clothes on yourself. Not that it matters in this game,

but I was thinking that maybe you would fancy something that is local? I usually prepare fish with various fruits and stuff,

they are quite good if you don't have anything else to eat. I mean, you look like someone that wouldn’t mind both ihihi~]

 

[Was that a comment on my chubbiness? Well let's not go ahead of ourselves and concentrate on the matter at hand okay?

You are a member of the guild Anti-TSO and G1 sent me here to talk to you about your thoughts about the possible war.]

 

The second person I exchanged words with was a girl dressed in a white ski suit-like outfit. It was quite interesting really—she chose a life as an outcast, far away from everyone in this harsh environment. I could only wonder what the reason for that was, but for some reason G1 specifically asked me not to talk about it. Was she someone important in the guild, I did not know.

 

[So maybe let's start with your name and position okay? What is your involvement in the guild?]

 

[My name is Yukihiru, but everyone calls me Yuki. By everyone I mean people who talk with me.

I'm not really someone they perceive as a leader or an inspiration, but I get many visitors...

Well, I mean I tell them not to come but they still insist on helping me. See that's really annoying,

and like I could complain to G1 about it, but I don't really want to. I have done that so many times now.]

 

[Yes but, the question was about the position and involvement. I understand that everyone has the same rank in your guild, right?]

 

[That is only on the paper you see, I'm their so called “special case”, and everyone piles up on me.

I do hate that, but I can't really help it... when they come I feel a little cold every time so...]

 

I guess this wasn't a good start with Yuki, but at the same time, when I asked the other interviewee...

 

[I know you have some kind a special position in TSO, is that right? But before that, maybe your name...]

 

[This black knight is called Juger, creature that holds the most curious eyes. I shall state that position,

my duty in the guild known as TSO is quite uncertain at the moment. As a humble and efficient community manager,

I seek problems and solve them with force if necessary. This line of work however is quite not satisfying for me,

so thoughts about transferring are present. It is quite a difficult and complicated matter, thus it will remain unvoiced.]

 

[So you have somehow a higher position but you are considering trying something else? I can fully understand that.

However, what is your attachment with the TSO? I see that you must be either exhausted to consider a transfer or...]

 

[Not at all, it is a personal matter, thus hold onto your claims, eccentric researcher! We were speaking about war,

do change not the subject of our conversation. Now then, this knight will forever ponder why he was chosen by Xyl...]

 

Yes, I did not forget our main topic was the war, but in order to understand that, I wanted first to know more about them. That might have been a mistake after all, so I did regret it. In any case, I think it would be a good time to actually...

 

[Yes about the war Juger, could you tell me your thoughts about why the two guilds are this eager to fight?

I recall from the past, they were not enemies, more like friends or allies. Why such a sudden change?]

 

[It is a mystery, but the answer can be found in the recent events. The world of humans, different from this one,

it seems to change the people's opinion and ignites them with fiery desire to destroy and demolish without mercy.

I question, is there a reason that would matter? Yet as you see, clearly the terrifying reality of today has reached this world.]

 

[A war that arises from people’s emotions? As I recall it was a turmoil in political climate that caused it.

Do you think that it also reached this game and people changed accordingly to how the media portrayed it?]

 

[Quite so, my dear intelligent attendant. It is an unsure thing but the worlds of virtual and reality are connected.

They both are created by humans, with their fervent emotions. Not even the sages of the ivory tower know to what extent.]

 

The connection between worlds is something that Schuld mentioned, right? I can understand now a little better, but is it the truth? Does the fact that the artificial world and the real world are created by the same people matter? Because they are not the same, based the possibilities of each, the governing rules should too be different as well. Yet, if the human brain might mistake it for something else, they both do appear equal in the principal of factuality.

 

[Then how about, if that is possible, you could tell me about the war, Yuki? I don’t seem to understand completely,

but only recently the guilds become more hostile verbally to each other, despite remaining neutral for such a long time.]

 

[Maybe it’s because of the recent events, I think? You know that war and stuff, everyone is buzzing about it.

I am personally not at all interested, but I can tell you this much. Whenever something like that happens,

everyone just goes a little out of their mind and get taken by the wave. I would dislike if they would meme...]

 

[Yes, I would too hate if someone did make jokes about that, but do you think they have any participial reason behind that?

Maybe like a conviction or an opportunity to divulge matters that were left in the void for so long? Do you have an idea?]

 

[Their reason is probably the same as everyone does in their everyday life, just to release the pressure.

Yea, everyone is stressed so much that they are fed up with everything and start getting destructive thoughts.

I mean... not that I'm really a part of it, but you understand the logic right? Anyway... Brr! Why it’s so cold?]

 

While Yuki was pondering if she wanted to ask me about food, Juger, on the other hand, was also deep in thought. Both of them were trying to find a good reason to solve why would the people desire for war, and so was I.

 

[The reason why would humans allow for a war is a very simple one, as you can tell shameless traveller.

Perhaps not by chance we are alive to destroy and ruin, since that is a simple and understandable thought.

But from that obliteration, the current world falls desecrated and nothing of old is left standing. In times like that,

a new order rises from the ashes and the humanity is birth anew. This simple and inferior knight believes so.]

 

[You might not be wrong that the conflict is something that is required in the world, but let me explain.

It is true that in the media’s discourse we hear about the last world war as something crucial to the history,

but proceeding that was a world of peace. The wisdom of our parents says that we should refrain from it,

yet the current situation tells me why it might be a logical option. What about you Juger? Do you think so as well?]

 

[The winds of change might come in due time, but they are not as strong as the fire that burns all.

Without doubts, this knight shall state that the current situation is far from recoverable, unfortunately.

Instead of waiting for a miracle, we should desire a change, even at a cost that we must pay ourselves.]

 

So this is the change that Schuld was talking about? At the same time, Yuki said something similar when I asked her.

 

[It might not be the best option but we can definitely do something about it. War is not the option for us,

but if we do nothing, we probably going to end up needing to resort to it eventually. Like I will be frank here,

I tried everything to keep away those idiots but they just simply don't understand me, though they comprehend bullets.

See what I mean here? Maybe it’s better to consider this as an option because no one knows any better clearly...]

 

[So because we lack the communication abilities, we have make others understand us by our actions, is that right?

In history however, actions and words were both equally capable of inspiring people to change their convictions.

Perhaps it is just the circumstances that we live in, but is there really no other way to accept our differences?]

 

[Is there another way? Yea, like if we have a mind control device. You are a researcher right? You can make one, right?

ihihi~ just joking! I mean that would be cool but realistically impossible I think. It would be same as forcing them to...]

 

[Well you are right, mind control is beyond of our capabilities due the quantum nature of the brain, but you are not wrong.

Technically, if we believe in a dream that someday our problems will be solved with technology— that alone is a possibility.]

 

Yes, I'm very skeptical about that...yet I want to think that there is a solution to this problem, a way to solve the necessity of war.

 

[So if you could stop the war somehow, what would you do?]

 

[The war is required for our growth, it is only logical that we allow it. We should not allow for ourselves to idle any longer.

Yet here this knight speaks of hypocrisy, as he himself is not sure if that resolution is just. The trenches of doubts are tall.]

 

Is the answer that Juger gave, Yuki on the other hand...

 

[The war is something made out of mistakes and inability to think logically. If we ruminate past that we could probably...

But that is beyond me, I'm just a broken and ugly girl that barely even socialize. Anyway, my solution far from applicable.]

 

Those two answers that I received both were right and wrong, both had the aspect of logical and emotional thinking. Their opinions are practically the same—something must be done, yet the conflict prevents them from making a decision. What about me? How I would be able resolve this troublesome conundrum? I don't know... my mind is filled with doubts.

 

===

 

This was my last shot at getting the answer I wanted. I stepped through the door I opened ever so slowly. I still couldn't see what could change my mind, but perhaps it would be easier to say that I abandoned all hope. In this state I would be fighting an unknown enemy, alone and with just my bare fists. The reward for this...

 

Well if that is the least I do for myself, I will face the demons that are hidden inside of me. Without doubt, fighting is the least enjoyable aspect of this game, but somehow I happen to get lost in it. Like when I punch, my soul lights on fire and my entire body starts to burn. That's kinda the feeling when I start an exam too...

 

Yet my mind should be focused on the task ahead and I should only see the future that lies ahead of me. In due time, if humanity doesn't destroy itself, I shall too be freed from this mortal coil and enjoy the life in a virtual...that's not my plan at all! I just want to see if I can find a way to resolve this conflict, nothing more okay?

 

[What is this voice... I have been hearing it ever since I started playing this game. It's quite different really,

from my own, but feels very familiar. Was this also the effect of Synapse? Technically if they could emulate simulations,

hearing is also a sense that can be cheated. Therefore, for some reason, I might be the interest of the "Ghost AI" beings.

Well if that is the truth I might know who especially targeted me... is he really that kind of jokester? I doubt that.]

 

[Doubt not more, for the voice in your head is not just your own. Perhaps it belongs to him too? I dunno.

My mind is in full confusion right now, I get so many different signals from people wanting the war and not,

people willing to take a part and not, what the hell do they want? Couldn't they simply decide on their own?

Jeez, those people are annoying and I can't deal with them at all. In fact I dunno if I can even deal with myself.]

 

[Humans are pitiful creates, they can't change by themselves, yet they desire more pleasure than work they bestow.

Imagine a utopia with technological advancement where there is a possibility to make everyone equal and happy.

Of course, realistically we already had many utopian fictions which addressed said problem, we are smarter now.

Are we though? Because we still can’t get rid of those malignant dreams, we end up creating new toys for the ignorant.]

 

[On the other hand, thinking logically, I can understand why I am hearing those voices. It is the Biochemical Signals,

and the Morphic Field theory. I will let you on a secret, the ancient humans living here, or if you prefer "Ghost AIs",

they exist within those fields as consciousness. Affecting this world by using Words, they influence the other world too,

because both of the worlds are connected. This is why we can change, there is hope, but only if you believe in this crap.]

 

My left ear and right ear, both turning red hot from a scorching sensation, this was too much, I had to stop it.

 

…

 

Upon entering a door, my vision was completely blurred. I didn’t feel anything, for a second I thought something went wrong. Before I could open my eyes and smell my surroundings, my mind was taken back to the reality that was this virtual world. I found myself in a giant Romanian coliseum that was build from stone, in the middle a walnut-like shaped arena. Surrounding me were the empty seats, mosaic pillars and the walls that were too tall for me to climb. This was a predicament.

 

I was equipped and ready for battle, though I couldn't say I was experienced it in. I couldn't get used to combat, so I tried several other archetypes, no one them so far was what I would find fancy. But one thing did connect them—it was the fact that every time my fists were the weapon. It was the most direct approach which suited me the most.

 

On the other hand, I heard that dungeons are usually cleared with several players, yet I was here all alone. This fact did scare me a little, but somehow I thought I'm going to manage. I just needed to knock them down first.

 

[Saying so I do wonder what I'm going to fight here, because certainly this is the place where people talk with fists.]

 

And before I could finish, something managed to happen. After my long wait, eventually I was rewarded with a sight. It was like the sky opened itself and revealed a light that illuminated the space above me. Coming down like shiny droplets of rain, a small circle was slowly created by molecules of pure white matter. From that puddle emerged a beautiful angel of unblemished colours, complete with three set of wings.

 

However, that was not all that happened. At the same time, from a corner opposite from the heavenly creature, fire appeared. From the depths of the Earth, erupting like hot red magma, another shape was rising into existence. It was a guise of a demon, shaped like a voluptuous woman, with red and tar black skin, devilish wings, horns and a tail, a quite terrifying appearance.

 

With the show being over, both of those creatures were gazing at me. I could only return theirs with mine, as I was being cautious. Both of the adversaries were equipped with a weapon, the angel with a sword and the demon with a fork. They were giant, much taller and bulkier than me. I was clearly at a disadvantage here, but it looked like I had to make the first step.

 

[Hey, we don't need to fight now, right? I mean like you guys are playing by the rules, so no double teaming okay?]

 

But it didn't seem they were in the mood for the jokes. The heavenly and hellish pair attacked both at the same time. From my back there was a flash of light that flew into the air and rained down with bullets that pierced the floor. Directly ahead of me there was a globe that appeared and went into the ground, only to create a fissure heading for me. Between the two attacks I had to dodge to the side, and luckily I didn't get hit. Yet I could not say I was safe at all.

 

Without any pressure they were welcomed to try again with their attacks and I realised I had to do something. I could not just simply evade their attacks all the time—I had to be aggressive as well. The question is who? Being able only to target a single one, should I go for the angel or the devil? Well I think that was obvious.

 

Because you can evade ground projectiles by jumping, the demon's attack was the easier to dodge, I thought. Getting close to her was not a problem, and soon I found myself right next to my opponent. At my time to strike, I used Ground Raise to force my target into the air, but that didn't happen. I guess this is because it was a boss?

 

[Oh sorry, I meant to use a different ability. I hope I didn’t angry you or anything with that little damage.

Say, maybe you and I join up and beat up that other guy while we at it? He doesn't look too trustful,

and quite frankly I got fed up with fancy people anyway. If we team up now we definitely beat him up!]

 

Talking to monsters is not really what I should have done, knowing my experience with AI from before. But this time I was fighting something artificial, thus I felt more like a fictional character than a human. I had to invent some silly lines before I would actually attack, or something like that. It was silly of me.

 

Alas, the battlefield was not a place anyone could afford being anything but serious. The adversary I attacked, with furious speed, launched onto me with her weapon pointed at me. I barely dodged the blitz, but there was more. Her strikes followed her foot work, and came very close to my body. I panicky hit the button and used my skill.

 

A flash of light, preceded by the release of a white gas, saved me from receiving a hit. I was still alive, but a little damaged, although in this game you can't actually see your health bar. I needed to push back, move away from the foe, and as I did I noticed the monster did not pursue me and returned to her position.

 

[So you are going to smack me and then run away? That is not too nice you know, but I understand.

I might be just expecting too much kindness from a person I barely knew. I'm going to talk with you later.]

 

And this situation reverted to the previous disposition. I was in the middle, dodging ranged attacks. I thought that I would try to do the same with the angel now, and see how he is going to react. Slowly but surely, I got past the rain of bullets and near enough to reach him with my own attacks.

 

But even so, I was met with the same fate as before. With the quick swing of the sword, the angel charged at me. His wings flutter as he cut through the air, causing the wind to fly directly at my face. Using my Blink skill, I was able to successfully teleport away from a giant and scary looking attack. I was completely safe but...

 

I knew also that offence was something I had to do, so I tried my best with my current archetype to attack. The problem was the Mage is usually suited for long ranged attacks, and my build was completely melee. Despite that I tried my best at dealing damage, with Dancing Lights, and preventing it, with the Dark shell skill.

 

[Now how did you like that? I can punch you and punch you, but you are too slow to reach me.]

 

Yet again, I was too fast to judge as I was struck by something from behind. It was a ground fissure, launched unexpectedly by the devil. Instantly my defensive spell was broken at the worst possible time. With great timing, the angel reached me with his sword and put me into a stagger before I could react.

 

It did hurt a lot, or at least that is what Synapse did tell me, because I could feel a great shock running through me. With basic attacks the sword kept me in the air, until the heavenly being raised into the air and smashed me down. Following that demon used her magic to create a fiery well from the ground that engulfed me quickly in burning flames. That kind of feeling was actually quite interesting to experience the first time but I would not recommend it to anyone.

 

Afterwards I was back on the ground, barely alive and only thanks to one skill, Rejuvenation which was my burst skill. Usually you can just cancel out of from a combo and be fine, but due the circle on fire that was below I was lucky I had that. For a certain duration it made me invulnerable, which both helped me with the cooldowns and tanked the damage. Back on feet, I used my Blink before becoming a victim to the angel's sword again. But in the end, I finally figured out how to deal with them.

 

[So you guys are not mortal enemies after all, as some would assume. If I am forced to deal with you together at the same time,

I guess I don’t have a choice. I thought I could have made friends with you guys, but all you do is fight. Such a shame really.]

 

I had one more ace up my sleeve, and this was the ability that allowed me to make those two meet in the middle. Technically it’s a useless skill, but I figured it would be very effective when fighting monsters so I equipped it. Illusion allows the user to create a fake you, one that will draw the attention of enemies from afar for ten seconds.

 

To test something, I crossed the middle line of the arena. As I did that, the angel stopped attacking and looked at me motionlessly. And after he turned I realised that divider was their aggro reach. All I had to do now is to stand near the middle, while using the Illusion to draw the demon, and use my own body to get the other boss to come near me and them...

 

Yea the plan was very simple, practically no problems. It was as I predicted, when I moved in and out of the heavenly being's range, he moved towards and away from me in a loop. With knowing so I was safe to assume the other part was going smooth as well. When I noticed that the demon was finally in the right place I could start the second part of my plan, and it was about time.

 

[Okay guys, I know you were really eager to meet each other. I must say this is not going to be a pleasant reunion.

You don't need to tell me the usual stuff—because I figured that maybe there was another way to make you both friends.

The left side of the brain and the right side, they are quite different, but it’s not like I am either one of them.

I'm both at the same time, so I am sorry that it has to be this way, but besides the conflicting ideas, there is more.]

 

Drain Cyclone, the unique skill of my current weapon changed my right click into something much more useful. Instead of just draining mana as usual, which is not all that gainful, it now drained hit points for a short time. This pleased me greatly because I was once again healthy, enough that I wouldn't worry about dying in one hit.

 

With them in the middle, the healing was doubled, so that alone was greatly beneficial for me. Still, it took some time and precision to continue with the strategy, but as long as I could resupply my health and mana, I would eventually be successful in defeating them. That is, if they didn’t try anything else...I was the one in control of this fight, right?

 

But one thing I did wonder about, why would they design this boss in such way? It's very easy to exploit it with this one skill.

 

===

 

So this is the place I was thrown into after beating the boss? I think I did beat that angel and devil pair, but in all honestly it was a very close battle from the very start. I only recall them falling on the ground at some point, and then the screen went black while my Synapse went all crazy. I was not sure what was happening with me, I was falling down, but also my body was stuck in a weird shape, squeezed through a tube and pushed forcibly.

 

This chute that not completely a pleasant mean of transportation but I guess I finally arrived to my destination. It was a cave of sorts, dark and quite cold to my feet. The humidly in the air was shivering through my entire body. My foundations were slippery and slightly wet, I could hear little droplets splashing somewhere far into the distance. Without light I could hardly see and considered my every step. Within this darkness I could have easily trip and fall down.

 

Usually you want to be safe while using the VR device, because you can't see where you are going with the headset on. You can use a carpet or tape to mark an area to play, so that you feet and hands won't hit the furniture. Just like now, I was feeling the floor with my feet before doing each step in the game. Thanks to the Synapse I was able to tell the shape, the wetness and the slipperiness quite realistically. Still, I couldn't figure out why I did fall into this hole at all.

 

[So perhaps I would open my menu and see if there is anything I could do with the lighting here. Let's see,

this button is supposed to open the inventory but it’s not working? I am confused, none of the buttons work here.

On top of that I feel like logging out won't help, just like in the previous instance. But I do have an idea,

perhaps I could use a Dancing lights and see if that helps at all. It's probably better than staying in the dark.]

 

And with my action I realised that my eyes were again able to see, but the sight was something hard to explain. Red light like fire appeared around me and I noticed the world suddenly changed completely. The cold stone surface lit up and now felt more like walking on scorching embers. The sound of water was replaced by the flame burning. My body was heating up. The cave itself didn't change shape, I noticed as looked around again, but I could see now the truth behind the facade.

 

The scarlet magma that was flowing like a river, the giant hole above my head that was a never ending darkness, the black smoke that was in the air, flowing slowly in space, it was the land of lost souls who left their hope behind. This place clearly was not gratifying as a reward for defeating that boss, but I was rather speechless really. Something like that could not be recreated in the real world, so I must thank the developers for doing this.

 

Still, this was not a part of the game—it was clearly something that was designed especially for an event. Perhaps it was due to my friend that I was given this opportunity, but I could care less about that now.

 

[In this place, I really do fell at home, though that's not what I should say when I step into a place like this.

It's quite hot, but I don't mind it. It's also quite deserted and messed up, but even in this disorder I find peace.

With this magma, smoke and flames I am all fired up, ready to smash any wall that stands in my way. It's how I am,

I try to face problems I encounter head on, without thinking about them beforehand. For example, this war situation...]

 

Perplexed how I should act, I was thinking about the personal conflict inside of each human. My mind is my own, so I can shape myself with my own will, right? That's not what it takes clearly—it's much more difficult to change. The brain is constructed in a way that disallows hacks, so even with technology we can't find an easy way around that. I wished that I could be able to change myself with the research I was doing, change myself and others for the better.

 

But I was mistaken—I only found that the process of personal development is too complicated to comprehend, even nowadays. A lot people are lost within the information and identity that seem to be overwhelming the senses and concise judgment. Our lives can’t be reduced to a single moment—a brief digitally dispatched transmission that dies after seconds. Existence is just like this lava, it never stops, it constantly keeps on flowing and changes its shape.

 

But at the same time...All the time I feared that, that someday I might just turn into a completely hollow person that is not critical and moulded like everyone else. Just like this lava, I would eventually turn into stone...but maybe I was mistaken about that? The people I talked to, the videos I watch, the troubles I overcame...This is hell right? I was walking slowly, as my pace allowed me to think more clearly. I came here for a reason after all, right?

 

[A little while ago I received a mysterious invitation from a person that was quite to the point with what he wanted.

It was Ares, one of the "Ghost AIs" who gave me a mission to prevent the war from starting. I might have failed him,

but this trip is probably his doing. He speaks inside of my mind, so I am not sure why would he want to bring me here.]

 

One day, as I was travelling through a thick forest, with my destination being a guild I wanted to visit, I started hearing voices. It was not the first time since I started playing this game, yet they appeared strange now. The sound was something completely unrecognisable to me, yet I understood every word that was given to me. It said that I needed to fight against myself, that to defeat my demons I had to conquer the ongoing conflict.

 

And yet, I don't think I have managed to do anything—at least that is how I feel now. Nothing has changed really, like my outfit was still looking as usual, so there was no problem. My olive hair grew so long I had to tie them into a one long braid. On my head there was metal plate fixed to side of my skull. I dropped the lab coat because I got tired of it honestly. After removing the chest piece I also added some armor parts and a few tears to the bodysuit. Additionally my feet and hands were completely bare now.

 

This look, although I couldn't see myself in the mirror currently, was clearly something fitting me, but at the same time, there was something missing. I didn't really have the time to experiment with fashion—I was busy as usual with work lately.

 

[Hey I see that you have made here, Squeggie. You are my favourite little darling, you know? I don't have to say more,

I just really like your type, the easy shapeable without convictions or shells. You must be glad too I presume, right?]

 

[Wait, are you Ares? I don't see anyone but I recognize the voice. You must be him right? So I was right,

you did send me to fight those two and then threw me in this place. What a nice fellow you are, you silly.]

 

[Yo, I don't like beating around the bush, I said you needed to face the conflicts within yourself right?

Now you are here, all beaten up, with those scrapes on your outfits and that impractical looking armour.

I guess I need to say congratulations but that would be a bait really. The true reason will be clear now.]

 

Yes, I can't wait finally to see the reason behind sending me on all those ordeals. If he wanted to talk about the war then he might be a little late for that. Yet, I feel a little strange.

 

[You see my dear Squeggie, did I ever say why I chose you for all of this? That doesn't matter now really,

what's more important is why I have decided to allow you into my lair. This place is not very nice isn't it?

You do feel like in home though, not minding the heat or anything. Hell, if you want to take a dip then sure,

the magma doesn't actually hurt the player because this is just an test area. It definitely feels nice though.]

 

[Do I dare? I guess giving into your hospitality should be my decision, because I can't mute you sadly.

Say, you do have a body but its invisible right? Can you show me your avatar is possible? I am curious.]

 

[It's a square—it doesn’t resemble a human model.]

 

[Oh okay then, I'm just going to imagine you as a voice only entity then.]

 

I thought I was going to die when I dipped my legs into the hot lava, but nothing of notice has happened. It was a strange feeling, something akin to visiting hot springs, but the texture of it was like a jelly. Thinking a little, I decided not to submerge anything but my legs, and sit on the side of the rock.

 

[So maybe you could tell why you needed to invite me here in such a complicated way?]

 

[It's not complicated, everything worked out in the end. You took the bait and entered through the door I left,

then you beat up the bad guys and now you are here, enjoying the facilities of this place. It's as simple as that.]

 

[So if I could say so, you planned all this just to force me to test the water here? Quite a silly reason really.]

 

[No, not at all. Listen well Squeggie, I am the one that really caused this war. You know the Ares' buff?

It allows the player to get more items from looting. That incentive was enough for people to consider a war,

since I am allowed to grant it only during a war. So imagine all those players, wanting to take a break from the usual,

getting a bonus on top of that. I can't say I said even one word to boil them up, but the effect is terrific.]

 

Just like the feeling of being inside of a bathtub with bathing salts and a rubber duckie. That idea surfaced in my mind, because of the bubbles that appeared on the magma. Unconsciously, I felt like my body was already slowly submerging on its own.

 

[Well you know, I can of course stop it from happening, but I rather not okay? I can't really decide on that really,

so I am going to leave the decision to you okay? I am going to give you an item that will cause a revolution. It is...]

 

[This peculiar looking thing? It looks like a sheep horn, but has an opening for a mouth. It is also a little twisted,

but I like the design. I reckon this is an equippable item so if you don't mind, I think it would be best suited for...]

 

[It's not for decoration, please. I want you know that blowing it summons a horde of demons at your command.

With their help you can stop the war from happening, giving them a new enemy. You could probably do even more,

since that army is unstoppable. You would be even able to destroy the world completely. What do you think Squeggie?]

 

[Deciding between saving the world from a war and destroying it? I dunno, I have no idea which one is the better choice.

Consider this my answer, if I save the world once, this will probably going to happen again, right? Alternatively,

if I destroy the world, it is going to be reborn in a similar way. Both of the ways does not solve the conflict,

they create other problems that cast a shadow on the main issue. I'm sorry, and thank you for your kind words.]

 

I think this was my most honest thoughts I had ever since I began my journey. I was lucky to have met all those people. Their voices, even though very silent, I could still hear them a little. As I am now, I'm not just a single entity, thus my ruminations are not limited to myself. I have gained vast knowledge and that granted me with the ability to choose.

 

[You are not afraid that whenever this is a setup? Perhaps I need to refresh the history of social engineering to you?

You know, the times when people tried to use money to influence the public opinion however they liked. That was long ago really,

nowadays thanks to the technology they got really good at it, really good at causing crises and convincing that people need a change.]

 

[Maybe, but since we can’t control them, let’s do what we can right?]

 

[Eliminating them would have been easier though... just one more little revolution can’t hurt...]

 

[Yet, someone said that we no longer can accept war as a solution.

But thinking about it now, even that would not fully change the world, right?]

 

There is not a single being that can simply save or destroy the world. Even with our technology, I doubt that it’s possible, because even if we manage to alter drastically the world, there will still be things we wouldn’t be able to change. There will be always some problems, some issues that have to be addressed. At that point, as long as we avoid our harmful thoughts, the future looks bright, though personally I find annihilation a possibility too.

 

[So another solution you seek in technology? By that I mean nothing less, nothing more than Mind Control.

It’s a wonderful ideal, to improve the humanity by giving them not what they want, but rather changing their desires.

Akin only to the people I have mentioned, whenever they actually exist in the world or not, this is quite an evil thought no?]

 

[It’s in the sea of possibility, but again, let’s just do what we can right now.]

 

[Not feeling like becoming the supreme leader? I mean if you pose an actual threat to humanity you would...]

 

[Honestly, at some point I thought that technology could be the thing that can save everyone.

But nowadays, no matter how I want to praise it, I realised that without change from within,

technology on its own won’t help much. On the contrary, it can make things even worse.]

 

It can even makes things worse...With the sea of potential futures, submerged under the waves of lava, surrounded by the voice of everyone, the only thing certain is my decision. I equipped the [Horn] I was given.